Black People!! Support Black LGBTQ+ Organizations for a Stronger Community...

I'm sure you've encountered many articles, blogs, and conversations with family and friends about the importance of supporting Black causes and small businesses, Period. Therefore, I invite you to take a moment to read this blog, especially if you find yourself at the intersection of being Black and LGBTQ+. As you know, we are all trying to navigate the Trump era, where civil rights are being lost, histories are being erased, and funding is being cut from organizations you might not have realized were advocating for you. Places once considered safe, such as churches, LGBTQ+ organizations, online platforms, stores, and schools, are no longer secure for Black LGBTQ+ individuals due to shifting societal attitudes. In times like these, it's crucial that we unite in solidarity and build a community within Black LGBTQ+ orgs that will endure beyond our current social challenges.

Why is it crucial to support Black LGBTQ+ Orgs?

Make no mistake, this perspective isn't rooted in racism; as Black individuals, we must acknowledge that our needs differ from those of our white counterparts. It shouldn't be judged as negative or positive; it's merely a cultural distinction. Be Honest!! Isn't it nice to see knowledgeable Black people in Leadership and in Service to our community. Imagine entering a space that embraces our language tones, with trainings and events specifically tailored to our culture. Wouldn't that be wonderful? Who could provide better insight into the intersection of the various forms of discrimination we encounter than a Black LGBTQ+ organization?

Let me break down the importance in list form:

Addressing Intersectionality:

Briefly stated above, Black LGBTQ+ individuals face both racism and LGBTQ+ discrimination, resulting in distinct mental health challenges and obstacles to accessing resources. Organizations founded by Black individuals are better positioned to tackle these intersecting issues.

• Culturally Relevant Services:

  These organizations can provide services and programs specifically designed to meet the needs and experiences of Black LGBTQ+ individuals, ensuring they feel acknowledged, understood, and supported.

  
  

• Empowerment and Visibility:

  Supporting these organizations helps amplify the voices and stories of Black LGBTQ+ individuals, challenging societal biases and fostering greater understanding.

  
  

• Creating Safe Spaces:

  Organizations founded by Black individuals can create safe and affirming environments where Black LGBTQ+ youth and adults can connect, build community, and receive support.

  
  

• Advocacy and Policy Change:

  These organizations often play a vital role in advocating for policies that protect the rights of Black LGBTQ+ individuals and address systemic inequalities.

  
  

• Economic Opportunity:

  Supporting Black-founded organizations contributes to creating economic opportunities within the Black LGBTQ+ community, fostering self-sufficiency and empowerment.

Man, What happens when Black Folks don't support?

Here's the situation: without your support, we lose community funding essential for maintaining our nonprofit structure, funding programs, and providing services. Did you truly think there was no discrimination in the nonprofit sector? Did you really believe Black LGBTQ+ organizations received the same level of funding as White organizations? Not at all! As reported by funders for LGBTQ+, in 2022, Black LGBTQ+ organizations were awarded 14% of the philanthropic funding aimed at LGBTQ initiatives, which is twice the 7% they received in 2021. This amount is less than half of what was allocated to Non-Black LGBTQ+ organizations. Black people, we need your support.

Here are some downsides of not supporting Black LGBTQ organizations:

• Weakened Community Support: These organizations provide vital mental health support and safe spaces. Without backing, they struggle to address intersectional discrimination, leaving many without the help they need.

  
  

• Increased Isolation: Black LGBTQ individuals face discrimination based on race and sexual orientation, leading to mental health issues and housing instability. A lack of supportive organizations can worsen feelings of isolation.

  
  

• Reduced Visibility: Black LGBTQ organizations amplify the voices of their community. Without support, their influence diminishes, risking that specific challenges get overlooked in broader advocacy efforts.

  
  

• Missed Leadership Opportunities: Supporting these organizations fosters leadership and empowerment. Without it, Black LGBTQ individuals have fewer chances to lead and share their stories.

  
  

• Worsened Discrimination Effects: Experiencing multiple forms of discrimination increases the risk of poor mental health. These organizations are equipped to help, but without support, their ability to intervene is weakened.

In summary, not supporting Black LGBTQ+ organizations limits access to culturally relevant assistance, heightens the chances of discrimination and isolation, and diminishes the community's strength in advocating for justice.

So, what is your reason for not supporting Black LGBTQ+ organizations in your state? Is your reason more significant than what's mentioned in this article? Have you considered that your reason might be a result of the consequences listed above?

Non-profit organizations thrive when the community engages through donations, volunteering, and supporting programs/events. Share your insights in the comment section and let us know your thoughts on supporting Black LGBTQ+ organizations. If you have a blog idea, please email us at info@iammecorp.org.

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