You Are Not Alone: A Message of Solidarity & Hope for the LGBTQIA+ Community

Written By Phillip Alexander Downie

To my LGBTQIA+ family, especially my Trans and gender-expansive siblings: I see you. I hear you. I stand with you in unwavering solidarity. No matter who occupies government offices or the noise of hate-filled rhetoric, you will never be erased. Our existence is valid, beautiful, and vital. We are here to stay, and together, we will thrive.

For many of us, these times feel heavy. We see policies aimed at stripping away our rights, hate-fueled attacks in our communities, and erasure attempts on a national stage. It is heartbreaking and infuriating. Yet, as history shows, our community is resilient, creative, and powerful. We rise not despite the challenges we face, but because of them.

Tangible Resources for Support

If you're feeling hopeless, I want you to know there is help. Here are tangible resources that can support you in this moment:

  1. Crisis Support

    • The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 or text "START" to 678-678 for free, confidential support for LGBTQIA+ youth.

    • Trans Lifeline: Call 877-565-8860 for peer-to-peer support specifically for Trans and nonbinary individuals.

    • The LGBT National Hotline: Call 888-843-4564 for resources, referrals, and someone to talk to.

  2. Mental Health and Emotional Wellness

    • Rainbow Youth Alliance (RYA): Offers safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth to share, connect, and find support. Visit their website: Rainbow Youth Alliance.

    • The Montgomery County Pride Family Support Groups: From LGBTQIA+ youth to elders, our support groups offer safe, affirming spaces for sharing and connection. Visit mocopridecenter.org/events for schedules.

  3. Financial and Legal Resources

    • GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): Offers legal resources to help you navigate discrimination and fight for your rights. Visit GLAD.

    • Point of Pride: Provides financial assistance for gender-affirming healthcare and other essential resources. Visit Point of Pride.

  4. Health and Wellness Services

    • Live In Your Truth Programs: We provide STI screenings, healthcare navigation, name change clinics, and more. Reach out to us at love@liveinyourtruth.org 

    • Whitman-Walker Health: Comprehensive LGBTQIA+ healthcare, including gender-affirming care and counseling. Visit Whitman-Walker Health.

Get Involved: You Are Needed

One of the most powerful ways to combat hopelessness is by stepping into action. Here are ways you can connect with our Pride Family and make a difference:

  1. Volunteer
    Our programs thrive because of people like you. Whether it's helping with community events or supporting our outreach programs, your time and energy make a direct impact. Sign up at mocopridecenter.org/volunteer 

  2. Attend Events
    Join us for community-building events that remind us of our strength and unity. From educational workshops to celebrations like Pride in the Plaza, these spaces affirm our existence and bring us closer together.

  3. Advocate with the Coalition for Inclusive Schools and Communities
    As part of our family, this coalition works to ensure LGBTQIA+ youth have affirming, inclusive school environments. Email us at inclusiveschools@mocopridecenter.org to join the movement.

  4. Donate
    Every dollar supports our mission to create safe, affirming spaces and provide life-saving resources. Visit Donate Now to contribute.

Together, We Will Thrive

The challenges we face are daunting, but they are not insurmountable. Each of us has the power to be a force for good, whether by showing up for one another, contributing to the fight, or simply existing authentically in a world that tries to deny us.

To my Trans and gender-expansive family: You are seen. You are loved. Your identity is valid and sacred. To my LGBTQIA+ siblings: Together, we will rise above the hate. To our allies: Your support is more critical than ever. We cannot do this alone.

Let us stand together in love, solidarity, and action—because when we unite as one, there is no limit to what we can achieve.

In love and solidarity,
Phillip Alexander Downie (he/him)
Chief Executive Officer
Montgomery County Pride Family
MoCo Pride Center, Inc.

Phillip Alexander Downie