MONROVIA — The United Methodist Church has publicly reaffirmed its commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, declaring “unequivocal” support for gender inclusivity and protections for transgender and nonbinary individuals amid rising concerns over discrimination and restrictive legislation in the United States.
In a statement released by its General Board of Church and Society, the denomination emphasized that all people are entitled to fundamental human rights and civil liberties, citing the church’s 2020–2024 Book of Discipline as the guiding framework for its stance.
Church leaders described the endorsement as both a moral and theological responsibility, pledging to continue advocating for equality and safety for individuals regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
The statement highlighted the growing challenges faced by transgender people, referencing research from the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law, which estimates that roughly 2.8 million Americans aged 13 and older identify as transgender. Many of these individuals encounter barriers that affect their health, economic stability, and personal safety.
The denomination specifically pointed to the heightened risks faced by transgender youth, including violence, bullying, and systemic exclusion from schools and community spaces. Adults, the church noted, often face discrimination in workplaces and public life, including harassment and limited access to services.
Concern was also raised over federal rollbacks and a growing patchwork of state-level legislation that restricts gender-affirming care and limits public access to supportive resources. The church called such measures harmful and urged both congregations and society at large to actively oppose discriminatory policies.
As part of its advocacy, the United Methodist Church encouraged its congregations to create safe and inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ members, stressing that faith communities have a central role in promoting acceptance and equality.
The denomination’s statement reflects an ongoing effort to address systemic inequities, acknowledging the intersection of religious, social, and civil responsibilities in ensuring that marginalized groups are protected.
Church leaders reaffirmed that advancing LGBTQ+ rights aligns with their broader mission of social justice, highlighting the importance of sustaining advocacy efforts even in the face of political and legal opposition.
The United Methodist Church joins a growing list of religious organizations worldwide that are actively endorsing gender inclusivity and challenging policies that undermine the rights and dignity of transgender and nonbinary individuals.
