Inclusive Spiritual Communities @ San Francisco Pride!
We are people of diverse faiths, congregations, and spiritual leaders who affirm and celebrate our LGBTQ+ siblings. We believe no one should have to choose between their faith and who they are. At San Francisco Pride, we march in the parade and welcome visitors at our booth, sharing a profound truth: God’s love—and our spiritual communities—are for everyone.
~ Michael Leslie, United in Spirit Co-Chairs
30 Years Shining a Light on Inclusive Faith Communities in the SF Bay Area!
For three decades, our Pride presence has brought together Northern California congregations, religious leaders, and people of faith to affirm and celebrate LGBTQ+ people in San Francisco Pride. What began as an ad in the Bay Area Reporter to share information about inclusive congregations grew into a parade contingent and expanded to include a welcoming and referrals booth at the Pride Celebration, deepening our ability to connect queer people with inclusive spiritual communities.
Congregations and denominations participating have included Jewish, American Baptist, Congregational (UCC), Disciples (DOC), Episcopal (EC), Presbyterian (PCUSA, More Light, Cumberland), Catholic (RC, Dignity), Methodist (UMC), Latter-day Saints, Lutheran (ELCA), Quaker (Friends), Unitarian Universalist (UU), and Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC). Our interfaith witness includes referrals to inclusive Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu communities. (See a sample list of past participants).
What to Expect
We gather on the last Sunday of June to march in the San Francisco Pride Parade and to welcome visitors at our booth during the Pride Celebration. As crowds line Market Street, we celebrate the beauty and diversity of the community. We share a message of love and affirmation—smiling, dancing, and blessing the crowds as we carry banners and signs with LGBTQ+-affirming spiritual messages. At our booth, on both Saturday and Sunday, we offer conversation, resources, and connections to inclusive faith communities.
Support This Witness
We invite the support of participating individuals, congregations, associations, presbyteries, and conferences. Contributions are needed each year to cover expenses, including registrations, insurance, and the rental of a cable car—essential for accommodating elders, people with disabilities, and others who might otherwise be unable to participate. Support also helps sustain our presence at the Pride Celebration booth, where we connect directly with those seeking a welcoming spiritual home.
Join Us!
Register to participate or reach out to explore participation.