It Comes Back to Community: An Interview with R. Scott Okamoto

Scott grew up in a conservative evangelical environment.

His journey of deconstruction began after meeting LGBTQIA individuals.

He became an advocate for LGBTQIA students at APU.

Community support was crucial for students facing rejection.

Evangelical culture often perpetuates harmful ideologies.

Deconstruction is a complex and personal process.

Critical thinking is often discouraged in evangelical settings.

Sharing personal stories can foster understanding and empathy.

Navigating faith and identity can be challenging for many.

It’s important to embrace knowledge and openness in personal growth. Once you start moving, it’s hard to stop.

Finding community is essential for continued growth.

Deconstruction is not just a personal journey but a communal one.

Storytelling can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.

Christianity has a significant racism problem that needs addressing.

Building relationships with diverse communities is crucial.

It’s important to engage in uncomfortable conversations.

Music can be a source of joy and connection after deconstruction.

Creative projects can help explore complex topics like sexuality.

Acknowledging suffering in others can lead to deeper understanding and empathy.