When you talk about equal rights, you can never single out the LGBTQ+ community which stands for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (the + denotes the very broad spectrum of human sexuality. People experience hate, discrimination and violence for their identity and in pride marches, they rally for equality.
Despite their vibrant community as evident in the rainbow flags that paint the streets during marches, acceptance is still largely absent. Same sex marriage is still illegal in 72 countries and worse, some are being stoned to death for homosexual acts. It’s like dark clouds on the skies and no rainbow in sight.
A few organizations have luckily dedicated their efforts in promoting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. From equal pay to all genders in the workplace to pushing same sex marriage in the national government, these organizations prove that everyone deserves to be treated equally despite their sexual preferences.
1. The Trevor Project
Founded in 1998 by the creators of the Academy Award®-winning short film TREVOR, the American-based non-profit The Trevor Project provides suicide prevention services among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) youth under 25. One of their programs is the Trevor Lifeline, a national 24/7 crisis intervention operated through a toll-free number and assisted by trained counselors.
2. Gill Foundation
The Gill Foundation is one of America’s leading funders of efforts with a mission to secure full equal treatment to lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people. They offer grant funding services to non-profits that focus on advancing equality through research, education, policy, and the legal system.
3. LGBTQ Victory Fund
LGBTQ Victory Fund sets it apart from other organizations by being the only one focused on electing openly LGBTQ people to all levels of government by giving campaign, fundraising, and communications support to LGBTQ candidates.
4. Heartland Alliance International
Through their “Rainbow Welcome Initiative”, the Heartland Alliance International seeks to support the resettlement of LGBT refugees and asylees by providing them services in getting healthcare, legal support and employment.
5. Human Rights Campaign
Tracing its roots back in the 1980s, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) has been known as the largest national lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender advocacy organization focused on providing LGBTQ+ support through education on topics such as relationship recognition, workplace, family, and health issues.
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