Pride in the Pews Inc

Overview

Pride in the Pews Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Black churches to care for and advocate for the holistic well-being of Black LGBTQ+ communities. Founded in 2020 by Reverend Don Abram, the organization aims to bridge the gap between traditional Black church values and LGBTQ+ inclusivity.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of Pride in the Pews is centered on advocacy, education, and promoting the holistic health and wellness of Black LGBTQ+ individuals. The organization seeks to transform Black churches into safe, inclusive spaces by providing faith leaders with culturally relevant resources and support. Pride in the Pews collaborates with various social, civic, and religious institutions to achieve its objectives.

Programs and Initiatives

One of Pride in the Pews' notable initiatives is the Black Church Equality Fellowship (BCEF), which offers leadership development programs for Black faith leaders. The fellowship includes training sessions and provides financial incentives to support projects that foster LGBTQ+ inclusion within congregations. These projects often involve educational programs such as book talks, leadership retreats, and Bible studies focused on queer theology.

Leadership and Recognition

Reverend Don Abram, the founder and CEO of Pride in the Pews, is a prominent queer public theologian and social innovator. He has received recognition for his contributions to social change, including induction into Morehouse College's Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers and an appointment to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's LGBTQ+ Advisory Council. His work has been featured in prominent media outlets.

Financial Overview

Pride in the Pews relies on contributions and program services for its revenue. In recent years, the organization has received significant support through grants, notably from Trinity Church. These grants have enabled the expansion of programs like the BCEF, which has received substantial funding to reach more faith leaders across the country.

Classification and Tax Status

The organization falls under the category of Civil Rights, Social Action, and Advocacy (NTEE). Donations to Pride in the Pews are tax-deductible due to its 501(c)(3) status.

[1] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/871623538 [2] https://trinitychurchnyc.org/stories-news/pride-in-the-pews-grantee-spotlight [3] https://www.prideinthepews.com/our-team [4] https://www.prideinthepews.com [5] https://www.interfaithamerica.org/article/pride-in-the-pews/