Jide Macaulay
24 oct. 2025
Session summary
Religious leaders hold significant influence in shaping societal attitudes toward LGBTQI+ people. While some advocate for inclusion, others use faith to justify exclusion and discrimination. In many regions, religious rhetoric reinforces laws and policies that marginalise LGBTQI+ individuals, often under authoritarian regimes that weaponise faith for political control. This session explores these dynamics and how faith communities can be transformed into spaces of affirmation rather than rejection. Drawing from the work of House of Rainbow, an organisation committed to LGBTQI+ inclusion in faith communities, this session will share personal stories of resilience from Nigeria, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and beyond. It will examine how race, politics, and religion intersect to shape LGBTQI+ experiences. Participants will learn how religious leaders can act as both barriers and bridges to equality and explore strategies for challenging discrimination within faith-based spaces. Through storytelling, case studies, and interactive discussions, attendees will gain practical tools to engage religious communities, advocate for inclusion, and support LGBTQI+ individuals facing faith-based oppression. The session will emphasise actionable steps for faith leaders, activists, and policymakers to foster affirming religious spaces and challenge harmful narratives.
Key Themes:
• The role of religious leaders in shaping LGBTQI+ rights.
• The impact of authoritarian regimes on faith-based discrimination.
• The intersection of race, sexuality, and politics in faith communities.
• House of Rainbow as a model for LGBTQI+ inclusion in religious spaces.
Conclusion: faith can be a tool for liberation or oppression. This session will challenge participants to rethink religious narratives around LGBTQI+ rights and empower them to advocate for justice within both faith and political structures.
Biography
Reverend Jide Macaulay is the founder and CEO of Rainbow CIC. He is a prominent figure, openly embracing his identity as a gay British-Nigerian, born in London. With a profound commitment to Christianity, he has been a minister since 1998, serving as a Priest, Pastor, and Preacher. Beyond his spiritual pursuits, he is a multifaceted individual, showcasing his talents as an inspirational speaker, author, poet, and HIV Positive Activist. He serves as Patron for ReportOUT, Co-Chair for One Voice Network, and Chair for INERELA Europe, contributes as Expert Advisor at UNAIDS Reference Group on HIV and Human Rights, further exemplifying his compassionate nature and commitment to community service.
