#1 Candid Conversations about Diversity: Honoring Diverse Identities in Spiritual Spaces

Co-hosted by Revs. Abigail Schairer & Stephanie Anne JohnsonWhile most of us would rather not talk about race, gender, sexuality, and size in spiritual spaces, it is absolutely necessary. Why? Because every single one of us is living this life in a body. Our skin color, size, sexuality, and gender impact how we move through the world, including spiritual spaces. Some might say that pointing out differences creates more division. It’s actually the unwillingness to address these differences that causes division. Join us as we reach across identities to explore the challenges and opportunities of diversity with curiosity and respect. These monthly conversations with Rev. Abigail Schairer, Stephanie Anne Johnson, and a special guest each month is hosted by the Center for Spiritual Living Seattle.About Stephanie Anne JohnsonA singer’s talent is complete when they can bring a crowded dive bar to a collective hush and also get one of the biggest audiences on the planet to a collective standing ovation. Stephanie Anne Johnson is that special singer who can don a cowboy hat and sing over a slide as old timers weep. And they have wowed judges on the immensely popular NBC TV series, The Voice, showcasing their gifts.  Perhaps it’s no surprise that Johnson is so affecting. Their mantra, after all, is “Find your joy and go there.” Their prowess exudes whether they are singing the Black national anthem - “Lift Every Voice And Sing” - to a packed auditorium or whether they're cooing acoustic lullabies to Saturday night tavern regulars. Their music, which is rooted in all that’s American, expresses the pain of the past, the roots of the down home and the hope that hard work will lead to proper reward. The latest LP, Take This Love, is a blend of Loretta Lynn and Valerie June. It’s a stunning catalogue of surprise and satisfaction. Stephanie Anne Johnson has opened for acts that include political figure Bernie Sanders, and artists such as Mavis Staples, Chaka Khan, Ani DiFranco, Joseph, Cedric Burnside, and Black Joe Lewis. Stephanie will be releasing a new album ‘Jewels’ on April 7th, 2023.About Rev. Abigail SchairerRev. Abigail Schairer is Associate Minister at CSL Seattle and founder of Sister Spirit and NextGEN Retreats. She draws inspiration from the great spiritual masters of all religions, which she integrates with practical guidance in her speaking and teaching.  Rev. Abigail believes we are here to help create the life God intended us to have – one of absolute joy, complete abundance, and freedom.