International, multifaith group focuses on respect and courageous collaboration worldwide
LONDON — This month at the Houses of Parliament, the LGBT FoRB International Coalition officially launched, bringing together faith leaders, advocacy organizations and human-rights experts to champion freedom of religion, belief, or nonbelief for all people across the globe. The launch took place under the auspices of the APPG FoRB (All Party Parliamentary Group for Freedom of Religion or Belief) of which the Coalition is a new stakeholder and marks a significant step in advancing values-based, pluralistic collaboration.
The event featured remarks by Co-Chairs Pritpal Bhullar and Rev. Dr. Marian Edmonds‑Allen, as well as co-founder Simran Stuelpnagel, President of the International Religious Freedom Secretariat, Andrew Copson, Chief Executive of Humanists UK.
The “FoRB for All” event also included a moderated discussion led by the APPG FoRB president, Julie Jones.
Many faith perspectives were represented, adding to the emphasis that defending one group’s rights indeed strengthens the rights of all. As one speaker noted: “When difference is seen not as threat but as invitation to shared dignity, we advance freedom for everyone.”
Grounded in the principle of covenantal pluralism – where individuals remain rooted in their convictions while working across difference with respect – the Coalition commits to:
Uphold and promote freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) for all people, including LGBTQ+ individuals and communities, by:
– Advancing dialogue rooted in dignity
– Documenting both injustice and hope
– Equipping faith and belief leaders to lead with compassion
– Fostering courageous collaboration across belief systems and identities
The Coalition envisions a world where all people, including LGBTQ+ people of faith or belief, can live freely and safely, in accordance with their conscience and where religious freedom is respected as a universal right, and where all people and communities stand together in solidarity, not suspicion.
“In a world divided by ideology, this coalition demonstrates that people with different beliefs and convictions need not be adversaries,” said Rev. Dr. Marian Edmonds‑Allen, Co-Chair of the Coalition. “The world needs hope, and it needs action for good. Religious freedom is uniquely suited for both.”
The coalition invites partners from across sectors, and offers training, speakers, and consultations to organizations and individuals free of charge. More information may be found at LGBTFoRB.org.
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