Welcome

Please join us in Washington, DC from July 1–4, 2011, for DignityUSA's 20th National Convention. Our theme, “Love Hopes All Things,” signifies the new direction of evangelization for us. There is now same-sex marriage in a growing number of jurisdictions including our host city, Washington, DC, and LGBT citizens will soon be able to serve openly in the U.S. military. The goal of full equality for LGBT people, in civil society and in our Church, is increasingly embraced by our families, friends and faithful allies. The Spirit is moving in wonderful ways. The convention will be a time for the Dignity family to share our rich history, but also break out of our place as primarily a safe haven for LGBT Catholics and move us to a new, post-Pentecost environment for the people of God, one that welcomes all the faithful, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.This will be an exciting and fun convention. There will be a gala opening ceremony with a new parade of banners, fabulous entertainment, opportunities to renew acquaintances, and experience substantive discussions throughout the weekend. And, for everyone blessedly single, married, engaged, or partnered, on Sunday night we will have our own “Big Fat Gay Wedding Reception.” For our Sunday liturgy a new “Mass of Dignity” has been composed by Tom Goss, a rising performer and songwriter.

Edwina Gateley, the renowned spiritual leader, writer, and speaker, will deliver the keynote address. Emmy-winning TV personality Phil Donahue and nationally syndicated radio host Maureen Fiedler (“Interfaith Voices”) will be among those leading a series of panel discussions. The new format will have six panel discussions presented as plenary sessions for all convention participants. There will also be a number of small group experiences for caucuses and on specialized subjects.We will meet at the Renaissance Washington DC Downtown Hotel in the heart of the city's entertainment district. The bargain rate of $125 a night is good for the convention weekend and three nights before and after.

We encourage you to register early to take advantage of the special early registration rate and to register online. Please complete the registration form online, or request a paper version by phoning (800) 977- 8797, or send an email to info@dignityusa.org. For the discounted early registration rate, register by April 1, 2011. Make your hotel reservation online or by phone at (800) 266-9432, no later than June 7, 2011, to get the discounted convention rate.

Our gathering will offer an ideal introduction to the LGBT Catholic movement for newcomers and a warm reunion for long-time members. We will socialize, pray, and learn what it means to be fully Catholic and homosexual and to spread our message. As with any family reunion, it will be a time to refresh and strengthen our sense of who we are and then go forth to make a better world.

This website includes a brief description of the convention program, a list of discussion leaders and panelists, and information other events to help you plan your visit. With great speakers, great entertainment, great hotel rates, and a great city, you’ll want to be part of this event!

We look forward to greeting you in person this summer.

Mark Matson, President, DignityUSA
Marianne Duddy-Burke, Executive Director, DignityUSA
Mark Clark and Tom Bower, Co-chairs, 2011 Convention Planning Committee