In a bold move to bridge the gap between faith and acceptance, Women of Faith in Action, with support from Quest Pro Women’s Foundation, has unveiled the groundbreaking, Not What I Said,” Toolkit. This resource addresses the pervasive misuse of religious texts to justify homophobia and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. Developed by a coalition of religious leaders, advocates, and scholars, the toolkit offers a refreshing, inclusive lens through which scripture can be interpreted to foster empathy, understanding, and acceptance.
Faith has long been a cornerstone of many communities in Uganda, guiding beliefs, practices, and social norms. However, it has also been weaponized to marginalize sexual and gender minorities, perpetuating stigma and violence. The “Not What I Said” Toolkit courageously confronts this reality by challenging the narratives that fuel discrimination.
This toolkit reexamines passages from the Bible, Torah, and Quran often cited to justify exclusion, providing alternative interpretations grounded in historical, cultural, and theological contexts. By doing so, it equips faith leaders and advocates with the tools to dismantle harmful biases and encourage a spirit of inclusivity.
At its core, the toolkit is an educational resource that invites religious leaders to engage in critical reflection. Through clear explanations of commonly misunderstood scriptures, it offers new pathways for interpreting these texts in ways that honor the inherent dignity of every individual.
Additionally, the toolkit includes practical guides to facilitate open, honest dialogue within congregations, creating safe spaces for individuals to discuss their beliefs without fear of judgment or ostracization. By fostering these conversations, Women of Faith in Action hopes to inspire a cultural shift within faith communities—one where LGBTQ+ individuals are embraced as equal members.
As a longstanding partner in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Uganda, Kuchu Times Media Group is proud to amplify this monumental effort. Our role in sharing the “Not What I Said” Toolkit stems from a shared belief in the power of storytelling and education to dismantle prejudice and build a more just society. Through our platform, we aim to spotlight stories of faith leaders who are championing inclusivity, as well as individuals who have found solace and acceptance within reformed faith communities. Together, we can ensure that the message of hope, transformation, and acceptance reaches every corner of Uganda.
The launch of the “Not What I Said” Toolkit is a call to action for all who value justice and humanity. Religious leaders are encouraged to use this resource as a cornerstone for their sermons, scripture studies, and pastoral care. Community members are invited to engage with its teachings, questioning long-held beliefs and embracing a more compassionate interpretation of their faith.
As Ecclesia aptly stated in the foreword:
*”Together, let us embark on this journey to promote dialogue, understanding, and inclusivity within our religious spaces.”*
Kuchu Times Media Group stands with Women of Faith in Action in this transformative journey. Faith and acceptance are not mutually exclusive, and with tools like this, Uganda can take a significant step towards a future where everyone—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity—feels valued, seen, and loved.
Download a free copy of the tool kit here
