Staff Writer Although Pride month has passed, local and national organizations that aim to protect LGBTQ+ rights and serve the community still need support. Contributing to these groups can help combat racial, gender, and sexuality-based injustices.
SNaPCo
SNaPCo is a Black, Trans-led organization based in Atlanta, Georgia. Their work is focused to protect the rights of Black Trans people in their city, but more specifically sex workers, formerly incarcerated individuals, and those who are HIV positive. The organization also created the Snap4Freedom school, a program that provides education surrounding Black Trans feminist frameworks, through community and peer-led curriculums.
Freedom Fund
Freedom Fund is a leader in the global movement to end slavery in the 21st century. Their goal is to eradicate all modern slavery across the world; specifically in sectors where it is most prevalent. They post bail to secure the release of those in the LGBTQ+ community who cannot afford it.
GLSEN
GLSEN was founded in 1990 by a group of teachers who wanted to make changes to improve the bullying and discrimination problem against LGBTQ+ students across the country. They believe that educators play integral roles in learning environments; especially for vulnerable LGBTQ+ youth. They’ve worked on important legislation like the Safe Schools Improvement Act, which requires school districts to adopt codes of conduct specifically prohibiting bullying, harassment, and discrimination based on but not limited to race, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disabilities, and religion.
GLAAD
GLAAD was originally established in 1985, as a direct response to the misleading coverage of the AIDS epidemic. Present-day, GLAAD is now a leading source for fair representation of the LGBTQ+ community in the media. Their main goal is to eliminate homophobia and discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation through more accurate depictions in both film and television.
Victory Fund
Victory Fund was founded in 1991 and is the only American national organization dedicated to electing LGBTQ+ people to all levels of government. They provide a platform for LGBTQ+ candidates, including but not limited to campaign support, fundraising, and communications. The organization’s overarching goal is to increase representation and continue to pass pro-equality legislation.
QMUNITY
QMUNITY is a non-profit organization based in Vancouver, Canada, that works to improve the lives of Queer, Trans, and Two-Spirit folks. Their mission is to provide safe spaces; with a building to serve as a catalyst for new initiatives, collective empowerment, and strength for British Columbia’s LGBTQ+ community.
The list doesn’t end there — there are many more incredible organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, spread awareness, or simply listen & amplify the voices of marginalized groups, we encourage you to do whatever you can to help.
