Affirming Gender Identity: A UU Message of Love and Trust | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 034

Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! In this episode, Rev. T.J. FitzGerald (Minister of Community Care and Engagement) and Rev. Beth Dana (Minister of Faith Development) dive into the Unitarian Universalist understanding of gender—what it means, how it shapes identity, and why trusting people to know themselves is a core spiritual practice.

They explore the difference between gender and sex, discuss how gender expression is a beautiful act of self-discovery, and reflect on the harm caused when individuals are not trusted to define their own identity. Drawing from faith, history, and personal experiences, they highlight the importance of listening, supporting, and celebrating gender diversity within our communities.

Rev. T. J. and Rev. Beth also share some powerful book recommendations, including I Am Jazz and Beyond Magenta, to help families and individuals navigate gender identity with understanding and compassion.

Tune in for this conversation about love, trust, and faith in the truth of who we are.

00:00 – Introduction to Tiny Pulpit Talks
00:46 – What is gender?
01:18 – Gender as freedom and truth
01:52 – Gender identity as an art form
02:28 – The power of self-discovery
03:02 – How Unitarian Universalism supports gender identity
03:42 – The history of UU and personal freedom
04:38 – Gender and colonial influence
05:21 – Polynesian culture and gender diversity
06:12 – Banned books on gender identity
07:11 – The importance of listening to lived experiences
07:43 – Trusting people to know who they are
08:48 – The harm caused by doubting gender identity
09:34 – Faith, theology, and gender identity
10:15 – Why trust is a spiritual practice
10:36– Final thoughts and words of support

Tiny Pulpit Talks is a podcast series from First Unitarian Church of Dallas that takes a behind-the-scenes look at ministry from a Unitarian Universalist perspective. This is a rare opportunity to see what goes into crafting meaningful and inspirational sermons, learn how worship comes together each Sunday, and explore the many facets of spiritual leadership. Subscribe to get updates about new episodes here on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.