Author: Kate Sosin

Originally published by The 19th. A simple wave at a Pride event sparked a realization for Frankie Leigh in Roseburg, Oregon. Amidst picketers condemning them to hell, Leigh realized the need for ongoing community engagement and outreach, beyond just de-escalation tactics. This led Leigh to join the “Faith for Pride” initiative, training religious organizations to protect LGBTQ+ Pride events nationwide. The project aims to bridge faith and LGBTQ+ identities, countering the rising anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment across the U.S. With over 120 faith organizations involved, their goal is to de-escalate actions of extremist anti-LGBTQ+ hate groups, especially during Pride Month. Despite facing…