Dear Friend,
Four years ago today 49 beautiful lives were cut short at Pulse nightclub in Orlando. They were dancing, celebrating Pride, and should have been safe.
It’s not enough to condemn hate against LGBTQ+ people, Latinx people,or black people– we must honor those who are no longer with us through action, and pursue a deep commitment to peace and justice.
This means not only supporting common sense gun safety legislation, but also addressing systematic oppression and amplifying the voices of directly impacted people.
Black LGBTQ+ people, and especially Black transgender people, are among the most marginalized groups in our nation. This community is at an extremely high risk of homelessness, unemployment, poverty, and persecution by police.
That’s why today we’re sharing information about Central Florida’s new All Black Lives Fund. Launched this week by the Contigo Fund, the All Black Lives Funds will resource frontline LGBTQ+ organizing groups and efforts that are Black LGBTQ+ led in Central Florida to build on the movement for Black lives.
The Fund will support grassroots organizing to build visibility and power, promote safety, and amplify demands of those most impacted by both anti-Black racism and gender discrimination. You can learn more and give here. Each donation will be matched 3-to-1, meaning every dollar you donate will be matched three times.
Things can feel really overwhelming right now– I encourage you to take time for selfcare, remember that you are not alone, and continue honoring those who are no longer with us through action.
Onward,
Representative Anna V. Eskamani