Lavender Listings

09/19/2024

Come say hi...TONIGHT!

Mix. Mingle. Meet. Support the Center, and community, by joining us at the next Time Out Thursday! (Stonewall Center Birthday)

09/16/2024

"Election years present unique challenges for organizations like ours. While political campaigns focus on candidates and short-term outcomes, nonprofits like Stonewall Columbus continue to work on long-term goals—providing essential services to the communities we serve. Unfortunately, as political causes capture the public’s attention, the steady and critical work of nonprofits can often be overshadowed.

The reality is staggering: as of mid-2024, over $3.9 billion has already been spent on this election cycle, with predictions that total expenditures could surpass $15 billion by year’s end. PACs and political committees fuel much of this spending, and while these funds are important to the democratic process, they also drown out the voices of community nonprofits that rely on public support.

Historically, charitable donations shift during election cycles as many people are inspired to contribute to political candidates or advocacy campaigns, and while that’s important, it can come at the expense of the community-based organizations they usually support. Nonprofits often see a downturn in donations during these years, and it’s a trend we shouldn’t ignore.

But here’s the truth: while elections may change political leaders and campaigns come to an end, the needs of our community don’t come to an end. Every day, Stonewall Columbus works to provide connections to life-saving services—whether it’s mental health counseling, family creation support, or identity advocacy. The work with which many nonprofits engage is the bedrock of support for so many individuals."

https://stonewallcolumbus.org/during-election-season-dont-forget-about-nonprofits-like-stonewall-columbus/

07/18/2024

Stop by Stonewall Columbus for our "monthly mixer" Time Out Thursday!

Mix. Mingle. Meet.

Support the Center, and community, by joining us TODAY at Time Out Thursday from 5pm to 7pm!

Register here:

Mix. Mingle. Meet. Support the Center, and community, by joining us at the next Time Out Thursday! (Blood drive)

01/24/2024

Stonewall Columbus Statement on Ohio Senate’s Override of Governor DeWine’s Veto on HB68
https://stonewallcolumbus.org/stonewall-columbus-statement-on-ohio-senates-override-of-governor-dewines-veto-on-hb68/
Stonewall Columbus stands firmly against the Ohio Senate’s override of Governor DeWine’s veto on HB68, a measure that significantly undermines the rights and well-being of transgender individuals in our community. This action disregards the vital importance of gender-affirming care, recognized by medical professionals as essential to the health and survival of transgender youth.

As we have consistently advocated, decisions about medical care should be made by patients, their families, and their healthcare providers, not politicians. The Senate’s move not only infringes upon these personal freedoms but also threatens the safety and inclusivity of our sports programs.

We are deeply disappointed that the Ohio legislature has chosen to prioritize discrimination and politics over the health and equality of our citizens. Stonewall Columbus will continue to fight against this legislation and support the transgender community, reaffirming our commitment to advocacy, education, and the protection of all individuals’ rights.

The actions of the Ohio legislature in this instance are not just a rebuke to the transgender community but an alarm for all who believe in fairness and equality under the law. As we face this setback, we are reminded of the power of our voices and votes.

As the November 2024 elections approach, we urge everyone to recognize the weight of their civic responsibilities. We call on our community members to ensure their voter registrations are current, to educate themselves on the stances of their representatives, and to vote with the rights and dignities of all in mind.

We urge our accomplices, allies, supporters, and community members to join us, to stand in solidarity with those affected, and to hold our elected officials accountable for their actions.

To our community most directly impacted by this politicizing of their identities we see you, we support, and we will continue to stand with you.

[This statement can be accredit to Stonewall Columbus’ Executive Director, Densil Porteous]

Stonewall Columbus stands firmly against the Ohio Senate's override of Governor DeWine's veto on HB68, a measure that significantly undermines the rights and well-being of transgender individuals in our community. This action disregards the vital importance of gender-affirming care, recognized by me...