Dear Colleagues,
As Pride Month draws to a close, we renew our commitment to celebrating love while focusing on our fight for equality and justice for all.
The anniversary of the Stonewall Riots was June 28th. Sparked by trans activists and queer people of color, it is often recognized as a catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ equal rights movement.
Sadly, more than 50 years after the Stonewall Riots, 29 states still do not have laws that explicitly shield LGBTQ+ Americans from discrimination and at least 69 countries have national laws criminalizing same-sex relations between consenting adults. However, thanks to support from funders like you, grassroots groups continue to push for broad systemic changes including police and carceral systems reform.
The Pride flag has evolved with the movement over the years. But it is important to remember that even symbols must be grounded in equity.
When you center those most marginalized, you are changing the rules of the game. When you listen to, and trust, your community members, you are lifting local solutions to global problems.
Thank you for all you do in seeking to challenge and change the narrative of who deserves human rights, equality, and justice in countries across the globe. To learn more about the intersections of gender and racial justice in the LBGTQIA community, please visit our CHANGE coalition partner, Funders for LBGTQ Issues.
In solidarity,
Elizabeth Barajas-Román
Women’s Funding Network
President & CEO