What happens when the most important parts of your life come into conflict? When Evangelical Christian mom Susan Cottrell’s daughter came out, she faced an impossible choice: her LGBTQ child or her non-affirming church. In this heartwarming talk, Susan explains why she chose her LGBTQ child and how she fights for progress inside the Christian Church.

Susan Cottrell is a prominent voice for faith parents of LGBTQI children. She is an international speaker, acclaimed author, and public theologian with a Masters in Theological Studies. After spending 25 years in the Evangelical church, she founded FreedHearts to champion the LGBTQI community and their families. She served as the Vice-President of PFLAG Austin (Texas) and was endorsed by The Human Rights Campaign and The Gay Christian Network. She has five children, two of whom are in the LGBTQI community, with her husband of 30 years, Rob. 

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Susan Cottrell: Why I chose my LGBTQ daughter over the Evangelical Church | Susan Cottrell | TEDxMileHigh

Why I chose my LGBTQ daughter over the Evangelical Church | Susan Cottrell | TEDxMileHigh

Choosing an LGBTQ child over non-affirming beliefs redefines love and family, showcasing the power of unconditional acceptance.

Real love embraces individuals as they are and who they may become, challenging societal norms and inspiring a more inclusive world.

Choosing a child over doctrine, a mother redefines love, launching a movement to support LGBTQ acceptance in faith communities.