Interfaith Panel discussion : Faith, Religion, Gender diversity and Sexuality : Addressing stigma & promoting inclusion
About this event
As part of Pride Month 2026, we warmly invite you to an engaging Inter-Faith Panel Discussion on:
"Faith, Religion, Gender Diversity & Sexuality: Addressing Stigma and Promoting Inclusion"
This thought-provoking dialogue brings together distinguished religious leaders, activists, public health professionals, and community advocates to explore the intersection of faith, religion, gender diversity, and sexuality. The discussion aims to create space for learning, unlearning, and relearning perspectives surrounding LGBTQIA+ individuals and their lived experiences within religious and cultural contexts.
Together, the panel will address common misconceptions, examine religious teachings through inclusive lenses, and discuss ways to foster acceptance, dignity, and belonging within faith communities and society at large.
Meet the Panelists:
• Gopi Shankar Madurai – Special Monitor for SOGIESC Rights at the National Human Rights Commission of India, activist, writer, and public speaker.
• Rev. Dr. S. Deva Jothi Kumar – An ordained minister, theologian, educator, and advocate for gender, sexuality, and disability inclusion. He currently serves as a faculty member in a theological college and is a core member of the National Ecumenical Forum for Gender and Sexual Diversity (NEFGSD), a forum of the National Council of Churches in India
• Khaleelulah – Farmer, queer and Dalit rights activist, and Muslim scholar.
• Dr. Amritamani Ganesh – Secretary, Doctors' Unit, Sholinganallur Primary Health Centre.
• Dr. L. Ramakrishnan – Public health professional working on health, legal services, and the welfare of communities marginalized due to gender, sexuality, HIV, and related social issues.
Join us for an evening of meaningful dialogue, diverse perspectives, and collective reflection as we work towards building more inclusive, compassionate, and affirming communities.