10 June 2026, South Africa — Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM) notes with deep concern the disturbing misogynistic nature of the unfolding critique being levelled against the current and former Presiding Bishops of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa. IAM is deeply alarmed by the increasingly hostile, demeaning, and gendered nature of public discourse directed at women leaders within faith communities and public life.
While robust debate, accountability, and critical engagement are essential components of healthy institutions, there is a clear distinction between legitimate critique and conduct that seeks to humiliate, intimidate, demean, or dehumanise individuals. We are particularly distressed when disagreement is expressed through misogynistic language, gender-based hostility, character assassination, personal attacks, harassment, hate speech, or the deliberate spread of harmful narratives that undermine the dignity and humanity of women through the manipulation of religious ideologies.
Across societies and institutions, women in leadership continue to face levels of scrutiny, hostility, and abuse that are seldom directed at their male counterparts. Such behaviour reflects deeply entrenched patriarchal attitudes that seek to diminish women’s authority, credibility, and leadership. It also contributes to environments in which women are discouraged from exercising their gifts, accepting leadership responsibilities, or participating fully in public life.
IAM affirms that every person is entitled to dignity, respect, and protection from abuse, regardless of their position, beliefs, or role in a particular controversy. We reject all forms of misogyny, sexism, gender-based hostility, cyberbullying, harassment, and hate speech. We further reject attempts to weaponize public discourse in ways that strip individuals of their humanity or expose them to ridicule, intimidation, or harm.
As a faith-based organisation committed to justice, inclusion, and human dignity, we believe that disagreement must never become dehumanisation. Accountability must never become abuse. Critique must never become hatred.
We therefore call upon faith leaders, church members, the media, civil society actors, and the public to engage matters of concern with integrity, fairness, and respect. We condemn the use misogyny, sexism, gender-based hostility and dehumanising hate speech as tools to galvanise support or legitimise positions. We encourage all parties to reject harmful rhetoric and to foster spaces where difficult conversations can take place without resorting to personal attacks, hate speech, or violence.
Our commitment to justice requires us to stand against all forms of oppression. This includes challenging the patriarchal systems, attitudes, and practices that continue to marginalise and silence women — particularly those who occupy positions of leadership and influence.
In this moment, we reaffirm our belief that the dignity of every human being is non-negotiable and that the pursuit of truth and accountability must always be rooted in respect for the humanity of others.
Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM)
