9 Black LBGTQ organizations to support right now

It’s officially Pride Month, but what would normally be a time for events and gathering is something else entirely. This is not simply due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but because of the widespread Black Lives Matter protests largely sparked by the murder of George Floyd. During this time, white people and non-Black people of color can educate themselves and others in their communities on Black LGBTQ history; it’s essential that no one forgets those who, like Marsha P. Johnson, stood up against police brutality toward Black and Brown bodies in the past.

In addition to pursuing activism, donating to Black queer organizations—rather than leaving all the work to Black folks—can go a long way. Below is a list of organizations that support and uplift the Black LGBTQ community that could use your donations right now.

1Black Visions Collective

The Black Visions Collective is a Black, Trans, and Queer-led organization based in Minneapolis. Founded in 2017, it’s committed to long-term systemic change, political education, and engagement within the community. You can learn more about this organization on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Donations can be made through its website.

2Black Transmen Inc

Black Transmen Inc (BTMI), founded by Carter and Esperanza Brown in 2011, is the first national nonprofit social advocacy organization focused specifically on Black transgender men. BTMI addresses intersectionality and aims to ensure Black transgender men are seen, acknowledged, and provided equal access to reliable resources. The organization’s headquarters are located in Dallas and more information, as well as where to donate, can be found on its website.

3The National Black Justice Coalition

The National Black Justice Coalition (TNBJC), founded in 2003, is a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black LGBTQ folks, including those living with HIV/AIDS. The organization aims to bridge the gaps between equality for LGBTQ individuals and racial justice. More information and where to donate can be found on its website.

4The Marsha P. Johnson Institute

There’s no discussing Pride and LGBTQ history without bringing up Johnson, a Black queer/trans activist, sex worker, and self-identified drag queen who played a prominent role in the 1969 Stonewall riots. Following the uprising, Johnson participated in gay liberation marches and was also visible at many radical political demonstrations. Her death was a tragedy, but she still remains a major figure in LGBTQ history. The Marsha P. Johnson Institute protects and defends the rights of Black transgender people by organizing, advocating for, and elevating Black trans people. More information about Johnson, the Institute, and where to donate can be found here.

5Black Trans Travel Fund

The Black Trans Travel Fund (BTTF) is a mutual-aid fund developed in 2019 to provide Black transgender women with financial resources to travel safely. BTTF was created in response to the violence that Black trans women experience every day. It currently provides its service to folks in New York and New Jersey. More information and where to donate can be found at this website.

6The Okra Project

The Okra Project is a collective that addresses food insecurity among Black trans people by bringing healthy, home-cooked meals and resources to Black trans folks. For folks who are homeless or who live in spaces that can’t accommodate cooking, The Okra Project has partnered with other institutions to deliver food in different ways. Visit its website for more information and where to donate.

7Black Queer & Intersectional Collective

The Black Queer & Intersectional Collective is a grassroots/community-organized collective that works for all Black LBGTQ folks through education, organization, and the creation of spaces to uplift their voices. It’s focused on highlighting marginalized voices that are often forgotten. More information and where to donate can be found here.

8SisTers PGH

SisTers PGH is a Black, trans-led organization that does outreach and offers trans inclusion training, as well as emergency housing and shelter for trans folks in the Pittsburgh area. It aims to amplify trans voices in regards to conversations around mental health support and access to services and opportunities. More information about the organization and where to donate can be found here.

9Black LGBTQIA + Migrant Project

This organization seeks to ensure the liberation of Black LGBTQ+ migrants through education and organizing across borders. It’s led by a steering committee and is housed by the Transgender Law Center, the biggest national trans-led organization advocating for trans people and racial justice. The Project provides cash assistance to Black LGBTQ+ migrants and first generation folks impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19). Visit the site to find more information about the Transgender Law Center and the Black LGBTQIA+ Migrant Project, along with where to donate.