Bishop Yvette Flunder is a renowned, trailblazing pastor, author, and activist recognized as a leading champion for radical inclusivity, social justice, HIV/AIDS care, and LGBTQ+ rights. As the founder of the City of Refuge United Church of Christ and the presiding bishop of The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries (TFAM), she focuses on affirming those on the margins of society and church.
Her key areas of advocacy and championship include:
- Radical Inclusivity: She promotes a "theology of radical inclusion" that welcomes everyone, including those marginalized due to sexual orientation, gender identity, or social standing. She argues for a church that does not discriminate based on sexual identity.
- HIV/AIDS Prevention and Care: A pioneering voice, Bishop Flunder has worked for decades to combat HIV/AIDS, particularly within the African American faith community, by providing housing, medical care, and prevention services through the Ark of Refuge, Inc..
- LGBTQ+ Equality: She is a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, including marriage equality, and for the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in all aspects of religious life.
- Intersectionality and Social Justice: Her work challenges the stigma at the intersection of faith, race, sexuality, and health. She is a "justice warrior" who advocates for racial justice, prison reform, and housing for the underserved.
- Progressive Theology: She is the author of Where the Edge Gathers: A Theology and Homiletic of Radical Inclusion, which provides a theological framework for her ministry.
- Support for Marginalized Communities: She founded the City of Refuge to provide a space for worship and social services for the marginalized, including transgender individuals, the homeless, and people with HIV.
Bishop Flunder is also known for her work in "repairing the breach" between traditional religious communities and the LGBTQ+ community, aiming to create a "Beloved Community".