Ensuring safe spaces for all people of faith

Everyone has the right to be treated equally and without discrimination.

Talking about sexual orientation and gender identity can be complex for faith communities, and when people do not feel supported by their faith communities, research[1] tells us that they may experience significant harm. Practices that seek to change or hide someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity are harmful and unlawful.

The Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Act 2021 bans these change or suppression practices and provides a range of options for preventing and responding to them.

The Act says that “all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, [should] feel welcome and valued … and are able to live authentically and with pride.”

What practices are against the law?

A practice or conduct directed towards a person because of their sexual orientation or gender identity – for the purpose of changing or supressing their sexual orientation or gender identity, with or without their consent is now against the law. [2]

What can our response be as mature ethical practitioners working in theological education, ministry, supervision, CPE, spiritual direction and spiritual care?

A first step is to learn what conditions help cultivate safe spaces.

The University of Divinity is proud to present a transformative professional development (PD) module, Providing Safety and Support for LGBTQA People of Faith: Towards Better Pastoral Care. This initiative is developed by the Victorian Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (VEOHRC) and is a part of the Commission’s responsibilities under the Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Act 2021.

This PD, expertly delivered by the leading advocate and trainer Jac Tomlins, tackles the crucial concept of minority stress and the imperative of building structural resilience. Attendees will delve deep into the ideologies that fuel change and suppression practices, understanding their detrimental effects. Importantly, participants will be encouraged to introspect, adapting their practices to ensure inclusivity and support within their faith traditions and work environments.

Register online to attend one of the following PD events

Location: University’s St Paschal Campus in Box Hill, Victoria

Dates and Times:

• 9:30 am–1pm, Friday 13^th September 2024
• 9:30 am–1pm, Friday 8^th November 2024

This professional development opportunity is funded by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission and the University of Divinity.

Registration is essential as spaces are limited.

[1] https://www.latrobe.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/1201588/Healing-spiritual-harms-Supporting-recovery-from-LGBTQA-change-and-suppression-practices.pdf

[2] https://www.humanrights.vic.gov.au/change-or-suppression-practices/about-the-csp-act/

Cathryn McKinney

Dr Cath McKinney is an alumna of the University of Divinity and Convenor-elect of the Australian Collaborators in Feminist Theologies.