Pride is a joyous celebration and recognition of the LGBTQ+ community across the world. Those who have been out since they were kids and those who are still not safe enough to come out have their moment to feel loved and appreciated, and it’s a necessary reminder that more people are supportive of queer and trans people than those who are not.
Unfortunately, those who are in power are the ones who are driving the hateful charge against LGBTQ+ folks. The fire they’re fueling is spreading across the country. At the time of writing, the American Civil Liberties Union is tracking 588 anti-LGBTQ+ bills across the country, and anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes are on the rise.
In only 6 months, the Trump administration has gone to great lengths to try to erase the LGBTQ+ community. Trump passed an executive order stating there are “only two genders,” the ‘TQ’ was removed from the Stonewall Monument (the birthplace of Pride), and nearly all LGBTQ and HIV focused content and resources have been erased from federal websites.
Their hope is that by getting rid of access to life-saving resources, like their proposed elimination of funding for the specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth offered through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, queer and trans people will disappear. But they’re not accounting for the countless organizations, on every level from local to federal, that are working overtime to support this community under attack.
This Pride month, show your support for your friends, family, and neighbors in the LGBTQ+ community by supporting an organization that is fighting for human rights. We’ve gathered a handful of our favorite LGBTQ+ organizations that are working to keep progress moving forward and keep the queer and trans community safe.
The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ young people under 25. They offer a 24/7 lifeline, text, and chat support staffed by trained counselors who understand the unique challenges queer and trans youth face.
But they don’t stop there. They’re also fighting on the front lines of research, advocacy, and education to create a safer, more affirming world. They conduct studies to equip policymakers with accurate information regarding LGBTQ+ youth, and they organize community outreach to help allies and educators be more supportive and understanding.
Supporting The Trevor Project means investing in hope, connection, and life-saving care for the next generation of LGBTQ+ youth.
LGBT National Help Center
Since 1996, the LGBT National Help Center has been a vital lifeline for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking connection, understanding, and support. Staffed entirely by trained LGBTQ+ volunteers, the center offers free and confidential peer support through a range of national hotlines, including the LGBT National Hotline, the LGBT National Youth Talkline, and the LGBT National Senior Hotline.
Beyond phone support, they provide online peer chat services and host weekly moderated youth chatrooms, creating safe spaces for individuals to discuss coming out, relationships, mental health, and more. With a comprehensive database of over 17,000 local resources across the U.S., the LGBT National Health Center makes sure that anyone, regardless of age and location, can find the support and information they need.
Donate to the LGBT National Help Center and send a message to the White House that the LGBTQ+ community can’t be erased.
Trans Lifeline
Trans Lifeline is a trans-led nonprofit offering peer support and crisis intervention for transgender people across the U.S. and Canada. Their hotline is operated entirely by trans individuals, and they do not call emergency services without the caller’s explicit request, recognizing the potential harm such interventions can cause, especially for trans people of color.
Beyond the hotline, Trans Lifeline has provided microgrants to assist trans individuals with legal name and gender marker changes, as well as support for those incarcerated or detained. The microgrant program was paused in late 2023 due to funding challenges, but the organization continues to advocate for and support the trans community through various initiatives and an extensive library of resources.
Invest in a community-driven network that prioritizes the well-being and autonomy of trans individuals by supporting Trans Lifeline.
Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Elders (SAGE)
SAGE is the United States’ oldest and largest nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older adults. Founded in 1978, SAGE provides supportive services and consumer resources to LGBTQ+ elders and their caregivers, advocates for public policy changes that address the needs of LGBTQ+ older people, and offers cultural competency training for aging providers and LGBTQ+ organizations.
Through programs like the Friendly Visitor Program, SAGEPositive for older adults living with or affected by HIV, and SAGEVets for LGBTQ+ veterans, SAGE addresses the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ elders. Additionally, SAGE operates the National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging, providing training and resources to service providers nationwide.
Support SAGE and help LGBTQ+ seniors get the respect, care, and dignity they deserve.
Lambda Legal
Founded in 1973, Lambda Legal is dedicated to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of LGBTQ+ people and everyone living with HIV. Through impact litigation, public education, and policy advocacy, Lambda Legal works tirelessly to dismantle systemic discrimination and protect the rights of these communities.
In today’s climate, where LGBTQ+ rights are increasingly under attack, Lambda Legal’s work is more crucial than ever. Lambda Legal provides resources like their Legal Help Desk, offering information and assistance to individuals facing discrimination.
Supporting this organization means standing up for justice, equality, and the fundamental rights of all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or HIV status.
The LGBTQ+ Victory Fund
The LGBTQ+ Victory Fund is the only national organization dedicated to electing pro-equality, pro-choice LGBTQ+ leaders to public office at every level of government. Founded in 1991, the Victory Fund has helped elect thousands of openly LGBTQ+ individuals to positions ranging from local school boards to the U.S. Congress.
In 2023, the Victory Fund invested nearly $1 million directly into LGBTQ+ candidates’ campaigns, resulting in a 71% win rate among endorsed candidates. The fund supported historic victories such as Danica Roem’s election to the Virginia State Senate and Becca Balint becoming Vermont’s first woman and LGBTQ+ member of Congress.
By supporting the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, you’re contributing to a future where LGBTQ+ individuals are not only represented but are also leading the charge for equality and justice across the nation.
Pride Is Action
Celebrating Pride is exciting in the month of June, but we have to keep showing up for the LGBTQ+ community all year long. The organizations listed here are doing the vital work of protecting queer and trans lives, fighting discriminatory policies, and making sure every person has the chance to live freely.
If you’re in a position to give, amplify, or volunteer, now’s the time. Our collective support keeps LGBTQ+ folks thriving in the face of growing attacks. Let Pride be your reminder: solidarity is powerful, and action is love in motion.
