Gender injustice undermines God-given dignity: An interview with Reverend Domnic Misolo

The Revd Domnic Misolo, Founder and CEO of the Institute of Faith and Gender Empowerment (IFAGE) in Kenya will be taking part in the webinars about Human Dignity in November 2024. Domnic describes himself as a ‘priest and a male champion for Gender Justice’. IFAGE is a non-profit organisation that promotes equality for women and children by working with community leaders, traditional actors, women, youth and survivors of sexual violence through capacity building, mentorship and advocacy.  

He spoke to the ACO about why gender justice and men’s part in it, is important.  

 Why does gender injustice undermine human dignity and worth? 

Gender justice is important because it is deeply rooted in the belief that all human beings are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). The verse emphasises that both men and women bear the divine likeness, affirming the inherent dignity, value, and equality of all people, regardless of gender.  It also reflects the idea that God’s creation is equal and that every person should have the opportunity to live in a way that honours their God-given worth. 

Gender injustice undermines God-given dignity by distorting relationships between men and women, leading to oppression, inequality, and harm. Throughout the Bible, God’s concern for justice is evident, particularly in how people are to treat one another. Micah 6:8 calls believers to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God,” emphasising the importance of fairness and compassion in human interactions. When gender inequality exists, it denies women (and men) their full potential to live as equals, diminishing the respect and honour that should be afforded to all individuals as God’s children. 

What can men in the churches of the Anglican Communion do to promote gender justice, and challenge unjust structures? 

Harnessing the potential of men and including them in ending domestic abuse and gender-based violence (GBV) is key to achieving gender equality and restoring Human Dignity. Men in the churches of the Anglican Communion can play a crucial role in promoting gender justice and challenging unjust structures by advocating for gender equality within church structures, challenging gender stereotypes, harmful gender norms and teaching gender justice. They can also participate in community advocacy for gender justice, promoting healthy relationships and addressing gender-based violence and leading by example in family and social life. 

What do you hope the webinar and series on Human Dignity will achieve? 

This webinar will inspire and encourage our bishops and church leaders to increase awareness and advocacy for gender justice and so to prioritise and promote human dignity. 

How can the Anglican Communion be a voice for hope, justice and equality in our world? 

The Anglican Communion is like a light on the hill that cannot be hidden, but its light must radiate the world for hope, justice and equality 

More information

The Lambeth Call on Human Dignity will be the next theme in the ‘Add Your Voice to the Call’ discussion series and webinar which is being delivered by the Anglican Communion Office. It is part of Phase 3 of the Lambeth Conference, which is exploring each of the Lambeth Calls, inviting churches to take them forward in their settings and will run between October – December 2024.