Dear friends,
If you’re anything like me, you are holding worry, fear, and sadness as regressive anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ policies are taking form in Florida and Texas and could soon take effect in other states across our country. We know all too well that these policies are a calculated attack on our most marginalized community members done at a time of complete upheaval in the world. Yesterday’s attack on Ukraine is further proof that we must push past the paralyzation of the moment and take action against these bad players here in the US and also abroad.
Three Ways to Take Action:
1. We ask with sensitivity to please make a gift to JQ to further support our mental health services that include our JQ Helpline, support groups, and wellness programs. It is our LGBTQ+ community that takes on the brunt of this discrimination when our politicians enact policies that would allow parents to sue schools and teachers for discussing LGBTQ+ people, allow doctors, nurses, and insurers the ability to refuse treatment to LGBTQ+ patients, and furthermore make it a crime for parents and medical professionals to provide trans youth with the evidence-based, gender-affirming healthcare they need. Your support will ensure that JQ can continue to provide life-saving and life-affirming support and wellness services to our most vulnerable community members. You can make a meaningful gift of $180 today at www.jqinternational.org/donate.
2. We invite you to join our friends at Keshet and Equality Florida for their Won’t be Erased Day of Action: Online Phone Bank on Thursday, March 3 from 12-3 pm PT. You do not need to live in Florida to participate in this action for LGBTQ+ rights.
3. JQ International joins with the World Congress of GLBT Jews and other LGBTQ+ Jewish Groups in the condemnation of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine. We call for an immediate end to the Russian military action and support those who are working to end this unfolding nightmare. We pray for the safety of all and remind everyone that the needs of the LGBTQ+ Jewish community in Ukraine are unique and should not be overlooked.
A global pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and an increase in antisemitism and anti-LGBTQ+ policies are bubbling up all around us. These are trying times that are weighing heavily on the minds and hearts of our community as a whole as well as upon each of us as individuals.
If you need resources or support, the JQ Helpline is here for you. Call or text 855.JQI.HLPS (855.547.4577) today or email helpline@JQinternational.org. Whoever you are, whatever you need, we are here for you.
From strength to strength,
Asher Gellis
Chief Executive Office
