I’ve always been a serial monogamist, and I was enjoying a bit of freedom, and I guess my mom didn’t know what to make of this new version of me. I was in a good place in my life and had been casually dating a couple of guys, but decided I needed some time on my own to find myself and figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I remember being surprised to see her number show up on my call display as she’s never been much of a phone person, but as I’d gone through a bad breakup about 6 months prior (my choice), my parents had been checking in on me more regularly so I didn’t give it much thought. Anthony has been recognised on a number of occasions for his contribution and impact including being twice voted one of 'The 25 Most Influential Gay and Lesbian Australians’ (20) and in June 2020 he was awarded the ' Order of Australia Medal' (OAM) for service to the LGBTIQ community.When I was about 23, I had a phone conversation with my mom that I’ll never forget.
Anthony is the founder and CEO of Ambassadors & Bridge Builders International. He is an educator and consultant on LGBT/faith issues and leader in deconstructing the ex-gay/reparative/conversion therapy myth. Anthony was the co-founder and former leader of Freedom2b. His best-selling autobiography ' A Life of Unlearning – a preacher’s struggle with his homosexuality, church and faith', details his journey from being one of the first in the world to experience religious gay conversion therapy, becoming a married, high-profile preacher in Australia's growing mega-churches, such as Hillsong, to living as an openly gay man. Once they realise how normal we are and see themselves in us….the controversy is over.” Anthony Venn-BrownĪnthony Venn-Brown OAM, is one of Australia’s foremost commentators on faith and sexuality. The only way to dismantle homophobia is for every gay man and lesbian in the world to come out and live authentic lives. One plays the victim living in fear and shame while the other plays the persecutor policing what is ‘normal’. Like an unhealthy co-dependent relationship, they need each other to survive.
#Amazing gay pride quotes free#
When we break free and we use the word with empowerment, ownership and pride….then we have moved from a world of denial to finally being real.” Anthony Venn-Brown We would definitely never ever use it to label ourselves. Many of us rejected it and wouldn’t even let the word come out of our mouth because of all the negative connotations attached to it…sin…. “I am always amazed how powerful that three letter word ‘gay’ can be. Most importantly it’s destroyed within yourself, and that one act creates the potential for its destruction where it exists in friends, family and society.” Anthony Venn-Brown “Every single courageous act of coming out chips away at the curse of homophobia.
Being an LGBTQ Ambassador and Bridge Builder.Andrew’s story – gay in a Pentecostal Church.Homosexuality, Christianity and the Church (Part 2).Homosexuality, Christianity and the Church (Part 1) – Audio.The impacts of faith/sexuality conflict.Creating a space for respectful LGBT – Christian dialogue.