Rainbow Index of Churches in Europe
Highlight of the 2021 conference was the presentation of the Rainbow Index of Churches in Europe (RICE). The index measures the inclusivity of LGBTI people in 46 churches throughout Europe on the basis of 47 criteria for inclusivity. Misza Czerniak, research volunteer and Board member of the European Forum:
“For the first time, we have objective information about the situation of LGBTI people in their churches. We hope this instrument will invite churches to look at what they can specifically do to improve the position of their LGBTI members. Every church is rated, analysed, and presented with recommendations.”
The index has been developed in cooperation with the Protestant Theological University (Amsterdam, Netherlands). The index was presented on 8 May 2021 from the Church of the Nazarene in Vlaardingen, Netherlands. Among others, it will be presented to Independent Expert on Violence and Discrimination based on SOGI of the United Nations, Victor Madrigal-Borloz. A website has been constructed for easy access to all data available.
Presentation
The presentation of the Rainbow Index took place as part of the European Forum 2021 Conference, on 8 May 2021. The event was streamed and can still be watched on YouTube in two parts.