Sectarian Schools’ Culture, Cultural Diversity, Competency, and Openness toward Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning

The relationship between religious doctrine and LGBTQ inclusion in sectarian schools presents a complex dynamic that often reveals tensions between deeply-rooted religious beliefs and efforts to promote inclusivity. Hence, this study examined the association between school culture, cultural diversity, LGBTQ cultural competency, and openness to diversity in selected sectarian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Region XI. This study employed a descriptive correlation research design and gathered data from 319 sectarian school administrators through total enumeration. Results revealed high levels across all four variables, with Pearson correlation indicating significant relationships among them. Thus, these findings underscore the importance of sectarian schools to develop inclusive practices and cultural competency in ways that remain faithful to their religious culture and identity. Specifically, promoting inclusive theological interpretations, strengthening cultural diversity initiatives, and implementing targeted competency and diversity training programs are recommended to cultivate greater acceptance and inclusion of LGBTQ individuals within sectarian institutions.