LGBTQIA+ inclusivity in
the Hare Krishna Movement
What does LGBTQIA+ mean?
LGBTQIA+ is an inclusive term that includes people of all genders and sexualities, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual, and allies. While each letter in LGBTQIA+ stands for a specific group of people, the term encompasses the entire spectrum of gender fluidity and sexual identities.
Why is LGBTQIA+ inclusivity important?
LGBTQIA+ people can face a high level of discrimination in their day-to-day life. Inclusive policies and language can go a long way to making LGBTQIA+ people feel safe and welcome.
What does LGBTQIA+ inclusivity do?
LGBTQIA inclusivity ensures that every community member, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels safe and receives equal access to opportunities and services.
The benefit of LGBTQIA+ inclusivity:
One benefit of LGBTQIA+ inclusivity is that devotees whose conditional identities span the full range of possible sexualities and gender expressions will feel safe and valid. Another benefit, according to recent research, is that members of inclusive communities experience higher levels of satisfaction in their activities and relationships, regardless of their sexual orientation.
How does LGBTQIA+ inclusivity work?
Communities should allow members to self-identify as LGBTQIA+ and select their pronouns. This sends an explicit signal about inclusion to the entire community and potential members. Self-identification is an important foundation for measuring the success of diversity and inclusivity initiatives.
RESOURCES
Resources on Inclusive Language
A look at the five core ‘muscles’ a community must build and strengthen to prepare for, advance and sustain the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion. They are change readiness, cultural diversity, empathy, growth mindset and ‘spectrum thinking.’
Is Krishna Consciousness Just for Straight People?
Look at the following statements: what is your response to them?
Sex life is something for people of all genders and orientations to gradually overcome.
Couples of all genders and orientations can become parents by a variety of methods.
A same-sex couple is just as likely to follow all the regulative principles as a straight couple.
The time it takes a newcomer to adopt our 4 regulative principles will differ based on various factors, not exclusively on their gender identity or sexual orientation.
Gender identity and sexual orientation are only some aspects of a newcomer devotee’s life, not the entire definition of their life.
As they advance in Krishna Consciousness, devotees of all genders and orientations can take part in all aspects of devotional service.
A straight person is just as likely to be a sexual predator as anyone else is, if not more so.
Our scriptures and Vedic history show the acceptance of a wider spectrum of gender identity and sexual orientation.