About Max & Emma
Welcome! We're Max Kuzma and Emma Cieslik, two queer Catholic voices bringing you thoughtful commentary on Catholicism, culture, and social justice from the perspective of queer liberation theology. As a transgender man and a lifelong Catholic, Max brings a unique lens to the intersection of faith and identity. Emma is a disabled Catholic lesbian who is a passionate advocate for inclusivity and justice. Together, we amplify the voices who are often marginalized in religious spaces.
We also dive deep into the challenges and triumphs of being queer in the Catholic Church, discussing everything from doctrine to the evolving cultural dynamics at play. Whether we're exploring the complexities of faith, identity, and the intersections of queerness and Catholicism, or critiquing Catholic teachings and practices through a queer liberation framework, we’re here to bring critical discussions to the forefront.
Why We Do This
Simply put, we want to help foster change, awareness, and progress within the Catholic Church today. We believe that a shift is possible, and that queer liberation theology offers a pathway toward a more inclusive, just, and compassionate faith. Through this platform, we hope to spark conversations, challenge harmful ideologies, and support one another as we navigate the intersection of faith and identity.
Support Our Work
We believe that access to this content should be free for all, but to keep this work sustainable, we rely on the support of our community. If you appreciate what we're doing, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Your support goes directly into keeping the content coming, and you’ll also gain access to an exclusive chat with both of us—Max and Emma. If a subscription isn’t possible right now, you can always send us a one-time tip, which is just as appreciated!
Join the Conversation
Don’t miss out on our Whiplash with Maxwell Kuzma podcast, available here on Substack as well as on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. We’re expanding our content both to offer accessibility options as well as the opportunity for deeper discussions as we continue to push boundaries by advocating for positive change.
A More Inclusive Church for All of Us
Ultimately, we’re here because we care deeply about the Church and the people within it. Our work is about making sure that every voice is heard, and every person is treated with the love, respect, and dignity they deserve. We hope you’ll join us in this journey of change—because together, we can make the Church (and the world!) a better place.
