Annual Conference Celebrates 40 Years of History and Women of Affirmation!
2017 is Affirmation’s 40th anniversary, so at this year’s Annual International Conference it is a good time for us to reflect on where we have been, where we are now, and where we are going. This year we extend a special invitation to everyone who has ever participated in Affirmation to come join us for a discussion and celebration of our past, present, and future. A panel of Affirmation leaders and members from around the world, from the founding of Affirmation to the present, will be the main feature at the Friday evening plenary gathering.
Other keynote speakers will include Troy Williams, executive director of Equality Utah, talking about the power of building bridges, Becky, Scott and Xian Mackintosh talking about their experience with MormonandGay.org and Jana Riess on the generational sea change taking place within Mormonism.
Our Saturday Evening of Affirmation will be dedicated to exploring the dynamic and diverse female gendered side of LGBTQ+ experiences. Berta Marquez and Kathy Carlston will host this night of queer women’s voices. Join keynote speakers Amanda Farr, Patty Willis, and Blaire Ostler as they kick off the night, followed by a screening of the new short documentary film about two lesbian Mormons, Faithful. We’ll then enjoy hearing from a panel of queer women as they share from their unique personal stories around being bi, asexual, lesbian, trans, etc. Don’t miss being a part of the night when we flip the patriarchy!
Sunday morning will feature the Affirmation choir, gay Mormon singer songwriter Justin Utley and trans Mormon activist Laurie Lee Hall. There will also be yoga, deeksha meditation, storytelling, LGBTQ Mormon testimonies, and much, much more!
We continue to offer unique workshop tracks this year for active and/or believing LDS, transitioning and post- Mormon folks, on relationships, mental health and well-being, and community support.
There will be tracks for parents, family and allies and for LGBT youth!
Watch for more updates on workshops to come!
Looks interesting especially to a Social Worker.