This Friday, Pittsburgh Pride kicks off with the inaugural Advocacy Rally, with 3 national speakers as well as regional folks. Yesterday, I posted a list of questions I would like to ask Cleve Jones, and today, I want to turn my attention to Brent Hawkes. From the Delta web site:
As the Pastor of the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto, Rev. Dr. Brent Hawkes has been at the forefront of ministry to the Gay & Lesbian Community in Toronto for more than 30 years. In 2001, Hawkes gained international attention by performing a legal wedding ceremony for two same-sex couples by circumventing a governmental loophole. Over the years he has constantly challenged the church to examine important issues including prejudice against lesbians and gays, inclusive language, and the ordination of women. He has played a significant role in promoting the inclusion of sexual orientation in the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Canadian Human Rights Act, and is a past co-chair for the Campaign for Equal Families.
Rev. Hawkes has continually championed for equal rights for lesbians, gays and women and has continually challenged the status quo with regards to racism, poverty and housing. For more information, go to www.mcctoronto.com
So here are 4 questions that I have:
- What difference do you think MCC has made in the lives of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer people since the denomination began?
- Do you think there is a reason that people should stay and work within more homophobic denominations?
- What is the intersection of a queer faith community and social justice or political change?
- What is the single thing that can make the most difference to the LGBT community as a whole, in terms of spirituality?
What questions do you have from Brent Hawkes? Come and hear him, as well as Cleve Jones and Nate Phelps at the Pride Advocacy Rally. After the rally there wil be a meet and greet at the Delta Foundation office. Or post your questions here as a comment.
Advocacy Rally:
City-County Building on Grant St
6PM
Meet and Greet
Delta Foundation Office
429 1ST AVE STE 1
PITTSBURGH PAÂ 15219-1312