Love, Resilience, and the Fight for LGBTQIA+ Rights in Birmingham

In this emotional second part of Episode 6, Brent Roberts and Sharon "Rocky" Roggio continue sharing their transformative journey with 1946 Road Trip Team through the South, landing in Birmingham, Alabama. Known for its complex history of racial and social justice, Birmingham becomes the backdrop for deep conversations about love, activism, and the ongoing fight for LGBTQIA+ rights.

The episode features a heartfelt visit to the Unitarian Universalist Church, where Reverend Julie Conrady and her community create a safe, affirming space for queer individuals. We hear about a moving Glitter Blessing ritual, a powerful moment of healing and affirmation for those whose faith has often been a source of trauma. The episode highlights the power of inclusion, as Julie shares her journey from a sheltered upbringing to becoming a champion for LGBTQ+ rights, even in the face of criticism and adversity.

Alongside personal stories of coming out and living authentically, we hear from Ford Knox and Rodney Blaylock, a couple who traveled from Tennessee to join the crew. Their journey, from growing up in conservative environments to finding strength in their love for each other, provides a poignant reflection on the resilience it takes to live openly in a world that often misunderstands them.

The episode also addresses the dangers of Christian nationalism, as the team grapples with the misuse of religious texts to justify discriminatory policies. With heartfelt discussions and candid reflections, the crew challenges the political climate that threatens LGBTQIA+ rights, offering a hopeful message of unity, love, and a call to action for equality.

From heartfelt interviews to raw personal stories, Episode 6, Part 2 is a testament to the power of love, faith, and activism in the face of fear and division. Join the 1946: The Culture Shift Tour as they continue their journey, reminding us all of the importance of standing up for what is right—and that, no matter our differences, we are all worthy of love and dignity.

From the creators of the award-winning documentary, 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about LGBTQIA+ rights, the intersection of faith and politics, and the transformative power of inclusivity and activism.

From the Creators of 1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture. 

Hosts Brent Roberts and Sharon “Rocky” Roggio recap The 1946 Culture Shift Tour Across America in a 9 Episode Web-Series / Podcast.  Check it out! www.1946themovie.com.

@mybrokerbrent https://www.instagram.com/mybrokerbrent/

@rockyroggio  https://www.instagram.com/rockyroggio/

Crew - Filmed, Recorded and Edited by: Eliot Sandusky Peterson @eliotpeterson

Special Guests: Rev July Conrady

https://uucbham.org/get-to-know-us/meet-rev-julie-conrady/

Ford Know and Rodney Blaylock

Jerry and Marie Holliday

Mentions: 

@unconventionalpastorpaul https://www.instagram.com/unconventionalpastorpaul/

@freemomhugs https://www.instagram.com/freemomhugs/

Al’s on 7th https://www.flowcode.com/page/alsonseventh

Lauren P https://www.tiktok.com/@laurenpcrna

@realmamabears - Instagram handle for a community supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.

Kathy Baldock - canyonwalkerconnections.com 

Church Sponsors: Unitarian Universalist Church of Birmingham - https://uucbham.org/

Supported by UNCUT STUDIOS DTLA  and  Making Things Right the series amplifies marginalized voices and celebrates the resilience and unity of LGBTQIA+ communities.

UNCUT STUDIOS DTLA https://www.instagram.com/uncutstudiosdtla/

Step into a studio unlike any other, designed for bold visions and endless creativity.

Making Things Right http://makingthingsright.org/ 

Making Things Right is an initiative that seeks to rethink the Christian response and responsibility to LGBTQ+ people. You might be a friend or a parent of an LGBTQ+ individual, trying to reconcile your love for them with your beliefs. You may be a church leader looking for better ways to navigate an often divisive dialogue. For anyone weary of the debates and looking for more productive conversation, visit makingthingsright.org to learn more.