Why Are We So Tolerant of Church Bigotry?

In modern society, where inclusion and diversity are celebrated as pillars of progress, it’s perplexing that bigotry within religious institutions often escapes scrutiny. Hate groups can form and perform demonstrations of bigotry and hate to the public but often are tolerated by bystanders. As of 2023, there are 86 Anti-LGBTQ hate groups across the U.S. The state that has the most is California at 9 hate groups, as reported by the SPLC (Southern Poverty Law Center).

I would say this is surprising; California is supposed to be one of the more progressive states, but we saw in the last election that there are parts of this state in which we don’t share the same ideals. So, looking into it, I discovered that just back in June of this year, Los Angeles just took down the remaining two ‘no U-turn’ signs at Silver Lake that were put up in the 90’s to deter and give an excuse to arrest gay men who were cruising to meet other gay men. An abuse of power to oppress the LGBTQ community, and yet it was just this year that the last signs came down. So maybe it’s not too far off that we are tolerant of bigotry though in those cases we are fighting to remove them. But when it comes to churches, we can become hesitant to move against them.

From discriminatory policies against LGBTQ+ individuals to systemic racism or gender inequality, the actions of some religious organizations raise pressing questions about accountability. Why do we, as a society, tolerate or even defend this behavior when it occurs within the walls of a church?

1. Cultural Legacy of Immunity

For centuries, religion has been an anchor of identity, culture, and moral guidance. This historical significance lends religious institutions a certain ‘moral authority’, making critiques seem taboo or disrespectful. The church, for many, is seen as untouchable—a sacred space shielded from the judgments applied to other institutions.

This regard often creates a culture of immunity. When a religious leader makes a discriminatory statement, it’s sometimes excused as a “deeply held belief” rather than challenged as prejudice. Critiquing the church is equated with attacking faith itself, fostering a climate where silence becomes the norm.

2. Freedom of Religion as a Double-Edged Sword

The principle of freedom of religion is fundamental to democratic societies. However, this freedom sometimes shields discriminatory practices. Many argue that religious beliefs, even if exclusionary, should be protected under the umbrella of personal freedom. But what happens when those beliefs harm others?

Balancing respect for religious freedom with the need to challenge harmful ideologies is a delicate task. Often, society leans too far in one direction, tolerating bigotry to preserve the perception of religious liberty.

3. The Fear of Alienation

For believers, confronting bigotry within their own faith can feel like betrayal. Questioning the moral stance of a beloved religious institution may lead to ostracism, fractured communities, or a crisis of faith. These emotional and social costs deter individuals from speaking out, allowing discriminatory practices to persist unchallenged.

For those outside the church, engaging critically with religious bigotry can also feel daunting. Non-religious critics may fear accusations of intolerance or “not understanding” the faith, which leads to a hesitation to intervene.

4. Selective Activism and Blind Spots

While many people are quick to challenge racism, sexism, or homophobia in politics, media, or corporations, there’s often a reluctance to apply the same scrutiny to religious institutions. This selective activism stems from a belief that churches are inherently “good” or that their charitable work outweighs their faults.

However, this mindset creates blind spots where harmful ideologies can thrive unchecked. By excusing the church’s missteps as “tradition” or “interpretation,” we contribute to the perpetuation of bigotry.

5. The Consequences of Silence

Tolerating church bigotry has far-reaching implications. It perpetuates cycles of discrimination, alienates marginalized groups, and undermines efforts toward social equality. More importantly, it sends a message that religion is a free pass to discriminate—a dangerous precedent in any society.

Moving Toward Accountability

Holding churches accountable doesn’t mean attacking faith; it means fostering a culture of transparency and compassion. Religious institutions, like all organizations, must evolve to reflect the values of equality and inclusion. Encouraging open dialogue within faith communities can challenge harmful ideologies without eroding the spiritual foundation they provide.

It’s time to reevaluate why we tolerate bigotry cloaked in faith. Silence is complicity, and questioning is not heresy—it’s a step toward progress. Faith, at its core, should inspire love, acceptance, and unity, not division and exclusion.