Public Forum: Reconciling Religion, Race, and Really Queer People, Oct 23rd
The forum, hosted by LoveBoldly, will feature a diverse panel of leaders and thinkers addressing some of today’s most pressing issues: the intersections of religion, race, and LGBTQIA+ identities in America. Panelists will explore how faith communities can move beyond division and toward healing, inclusion, and justice.
“Across the U.S., Christian nationalism, racial inequities, and hostility toward LGBTQIA+ people are tearing communities apart,” said Rev. Dr. Ben Huelskamp, Executive Director of LOVEboldly. “This forum creates a space where those conversations can be honest, hopeful, and healing.”
Panelists
Joshua Petty-Kayes (he/him)
A Korean American gay man with Spina Bifida, Joshua has advocated for disability rights since childhood. He serves on the Cincinnati Accessibility Board of Advisors, Spina Bifida Coalition, Disability Rights Ohio, and leads TreeHouse Cincinnati, an LGBTQIA+ resource center.
NV Gay (they/them)
A LOVEboldly board member, photographer, digital artist, educator, and author of The Queer Allies Bible. NV’s creative direction draws from their experiences as a transgender individual, exploring self-expression, prejudice, and resilience while uplifting marginalized voices.
Susan Carson (she/her)
Founder of Roots&Branches, Susan is a spiritual guide, author of rooted (IN): Thriving in Connection with God, Yourself, and Others, and host of the rooted (IN).ten.tionally podcast. She brings more than 35 years of experience helping people deepen their spiritual lives through listening, prayer, and spiritual practices.
About LOVEboldly
Founded in Ohio in 2011, LOVEboldly is a faith-based nonprofit working to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ people can thrive in Christianity. Through educational programs, community engagement, and advocacy, LOVEboldly equips churches and individuals to build bridges across theological and cultural divides. Learn more at www.loveboldly.net.
Event Details
What: Reconciling Religion, Race, and Really Queer People – Public Forum
When: October 23, 2025, 6:00 PM
Where: The Open Table - 3615 Socialville-Fosters Rd, SUITE C, Mason, Ohio
Who Should Attend: Open to all community members, faith leaders, activists, students, and those seeking dialogue and healing
IMMERSIVE, Nov 14th-15th
Something exciting, renewing and healing is coming your way this fall in Cincinnati! Join Paul Young, Bradley Jersak, Susan Carson and Jenny Jackson for two immersive days designed to renovate and restore your experience of God.
Friday, November 14th, 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Saturday, November 15th, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Plus an after party!
We’ll gather for thought-provoking conversation, personal connection and delicious shared meals. We’ll go deeper together in ways that heal our souls as we focus on our image of God and what it means to be fully human. This immersive experience will provide personal engagement with Paul, Bradley, Susan and Jenny in a safe, loving space. Bring your curiosity and questions. We’ll engage in honest dialogue, building relationships with our Creator, with others, and with our true selves.
Where: Epiphany Methodist Church in Loveland, Ohio
Cost: $295 per person
Space is limited to 70.
Registration is open here: https://thewmpaulyounginitiative.org/upcoming-events-1