As Pride Month winds to a close, we are featuring The DC Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, an organization that serves the District year round. The DC Sisters were founded in 2013, as a branch of The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, which began in San Francisco in 1979. They describe themselves as “an order of 21st century queer nuns,” with a commitment to community service, social activism, and all-around joy.
You’ll find them greeting and encouraging participants in marches, such as the Equality March for Unity and Pride:
They are a comforting presence at vigils for LGBTQ hate crimes:
They bring joy and great style to the Pride Parade and the High Heel Race:
A common question is whether The Sisters are actually nuns or are merely mocking nuns. Here’s what they say on their website:
The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence printed the world’s first safer sex pamphlet and organized the first AIDS benefit. When we are asked, “Why are you mocking nuns?” we answer: “We are nuns!” We do all that traditional nuns have done for centuries. Our look might be unique, but our ministry is common. We serve our community. We have raised lots of money for AIDS and other social causes. We visit the sick, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and sometimes disrobe the clothed! We are 21st Century queer nuns.
So when you see an offer of Free Hugs, make sure to take them up on it.
You can find out more about the Sisters on their website or Facebook page.