Drag Me to Church

By Mikkel Hyldebrandt

Why do you think it is important for your church to show up and show out for the Atlanta LGBTQ+ community?

It is crucial for St. Luke Lutheran to show up, show out, and support the Atlanta LGBTQ+ community, especially in light of our current political atmosphere. We are deeply aware of the ongoing challenges and threats faced by the LGBTQ+ community. We firmly believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, and it is our mission to be a steadfast source of love, acceptance, and inclusivity. By hosting Drag Me to Church, we aim to create a sacred and transformative space where LGBTQ+ individuals can freely express their identities and spirituality. This event is our way of honoring the courageous acts of resistance at Stonewall and providing a welcoming environment that celebrates the beauty and strength of the LGBTQ+ community.

What is your stance on all the legislation being proposed and passed right now often under religious arguments that ban drag queens and seek to limit the liberties of LGBTQ+ folks?

At St. Luke Lutheran Church, we take a firm stance against any legislation that aims to restrict the liberties and undermine the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. We believe in the fundamental equality and inherent worth of every person, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Our commitment to justice and inclusion drives us to actively oppose and challenge any laws or policies that perpetuate discrimination under the guise of religious arguments. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, we strive to create a society where all individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and full acceptance.

As you know, many members of the LGBTQ+ community have a strained relationship to church and religion due to prejudice notions and actions. How do you think your church can help heal that trauma?

I recognize that many members of the LGBTQ+ community have experienced trauma and alienation from religious institutions in the past, and for that, I am sorry. At St. Luke Lutheran Church, we aim to heal that trauma by fostering a community of love, acceptance, and support. Through inclusive worship, open dialogue, and LGBTQ+ outreach programs, we hope to create a space where individuals can reconnect with their spirituality and experience healing and reconciliation.

Looking ahead, do you plan to continue your collaboration with the Atlanta Pride Committee and how?

Absolutely, we plan to continue our collaboration with the Atlanta Pride Committee in the future. We see it as an ongoing commitment to support and uplift the LGBTQ+ community. We will explore new avenues for collaboration, whether it’s through joint events, advocacy efforts, or continued participation in Atlanta Pride celebrations.

Tell us more about Drag Me to Church event – what can we expect?

Drag Me to Church is an event that combines the vibrant artistry of drag with the commemoration of the historic Stonewall Riots. It is a powerful and transformative experience where we celebrate the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience and honor the courageous individuals who fought for equality during the Stonewall Riots. We recognize that there is no modern-day drag culture or LGBTQ+ civil rights movement without the bravery of Trans Women, especially BIPOC Trans Women, who paved the way. We owe our transgender community the utmost recognition, support, and solidarity today and always. Drag Me to Church is a platform to amplify their voices, uplift their experiences, and stand firmly alongside them in the ongoing fight for equality. Through music and spoken word, we will create a sacred space where love, acceptance, and liberation are honored. I can’t forget to mention a cocktail reception to follow, with a cocktail named after historic drag queens at Stonewall.

Is it okay to attend even if you are not a believer?

Absolutely! Drag Me to Church welcomes everyone, regardless of their religious beliefs or background. It is a celebration of diversity and an invitation to experience the love and acceptance that a community offers. We believe that everyone can find joy, inspiration, and a sense of belonging at this event.

Tell us more about your church’s LGBTQ+ outreach programs.

St. Luke Lutheran Church is deeply committed to LGBTQ+ outreach and support and has been for nearly 40 years. We have programs and initiatives in place to foster inclusivity, provide resources, and create a brave and welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community. We strive to be a source of love, affirmation, and advocacy for all individuals, and our LGBTQ+ outreach programs are an integral part of our mission to create a more just and compassionate world. and discrimination. I invite everyone to join us at Drag Me to Church and be part of this transformative celebration. Let us come together, embrace our diversity, and honor the power of love.

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Drag Me to Church

A Commemoration of the Stonewall Riots

Anything else you’d like to add? I want to express my gratitude to the Atlanta LGBTQ+ community for their resilience, strength, and ongoing fight for equality. Together, we can create a world where love and acceptance triumph over prejudice

Date: June 25, 2023

Time: 6:00 pm

Location: 3264 Northside Pkwy NW, Atlanta, GA 30327