The Inclusive Voice is the official blog of the Shoals Diversity Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting mental health and fostering inclusion for the LGBTQ community in Northwest Alabama. Our blog is a platform for sharing stories, resources, and insights that uplift and empower individuals of all identities. Through personal narratives, expert advice, and community updates, we aim to break stigmas, build understanding, and provide a safe space for conversations about mental health and wellness. Join us as we advocate for equality, celebrate diversity, and support the mental well-being of all. If you would like to financially support our Center, you can do so here and for every $250 donation or more receive a Tax Donation Letter.  

Disclaimer, affiliate links are used on this page that support Shoals Diversity Center.

January 2024

Book recommendation: Boys of Alabama, A Novel

At the Shoals Diversity Center, we stand firm in our commitment to support the mental health and well-being of the LGBTQ community in Northwest Alabama. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we are acutely aware of the challenges our community faces, particularly in a state like Alabama, where the legislative environment and social climate continue to make it difficult for LGBTQ individuals to live openly and safely. In this first post of 2024, we reflect on the ongoing battles our community faces and the ways we plan to respond with compassion, resilience, and action.

In recent months, Alabama has been at the center of heated debates surrounding LGBTQ rights. In 2023, several anti-LGBTQ bills were proposed or passed, with significant consequences for the mental health of our community. One particularly damaging law restricted access to gender-affirming care for transgender youth, leading to increased feelings of fear, isolation, and hopelessness for many. For individuals already struggling with mental health challenges, these legal developments have further intensified feelings of rejection and marginalization.

Unfortunately, the start of 2024 has seen little improvement. Conversations around LGBTQ rights in the state remain polarized, and with more potential legislative efforts aimed at limiting the rights of transgender and nonbinary individuals, it’s easy to feel disheartened. However, at Shoals Diversity Center, we believe in turning these challenges into opportunities for change.

We know that LGBTQ individuals face unique mental health struggles, often at higher rates than their heterosexual and cisgender peers. The stigma, discrimination, and lack of acceptance can lead to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. This is especially true for LGBTQ youth in Alabama, who, in addition to navigating the typical challenges of adolescence, must also grapple with being targets of discrimination.

Shoals Diversity Center was founded on the belief that everyone deserves access to compassionate, affirming mental health care. We work to provide counseling, peer support, and educational resources that empower LGBTQ individuals to take control of their mental health, build resilience, and find community. Through our services, we aim to alleviate the negative mental health impacts of discriminatory policies and offer a safe space where LGBTQ individuals can be heard, validated, and supported.

As we begin 2024, we are reminded of the importance of advocacy—both in legislative arenas and within our communities. While we continue to provide direct services to support mental health, we are also committed to amplifying LGBTQ voices in the fight for equality. It is more important than ever for us to advocate for policies that protect the rights and dignity of LGBTQ individuals. Whether it’s through speaking out against harmful legislation or participating in public forums to educate our neighbors, we must remain vocal and visible.

In the coming months, Shoals Diversity Center will expand our advocacy efforts, offering workshops on how to get involved in legislative action and creating spaces for community members to share their stories. We know that change happens when we come together as a united front, and we are committed to ensuring that our community’s needs are not only heard but addressed.

As we move forward into the new year, we invite our supporters, allies, and community members to join us in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQ individuals in Northwest Alabama. The challenges may seem overwhelming, but we believe that through empathy, solidarity, and action, we can continue to build a future where all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, can thrive.

At Shoals Diversity Center, we remain dedicated to being a beacon of hope and an inclusive voice in a state where many LGBTQ people still face adversity. Together, we can make 2024 a year of resilience, progress, and unwavering support for our community.

February 2024

As we move into February, a month often associated with love and connection, Shoals Diversity Center is reminded of the importance of self-love, community, and resilience for the LGBTQ individuals we serve in Northwest Alabama. In a time where acceptance is still not guaranteed, especially here in Alabama, this month is not only a celebration of romantic love but also a reminder to embrace our authentic selves and support one another.

For many LGBTQ individuals, February can be a difficult month. Valentine's Day often highlights societal norms around relationships, which can leave those in same-sex relationships, as well as those who are single or nonbinary, feeling left out or unseen. Worse yet, the legislative environment in Alabama continues to marginalize our community, and the negative effects on mental health cannot be overstated.

But at Shoals Diversity Center, we believe in reclaiming this month. It’s a time to celebrate love in all its forms—whether it’s romantic love, platonic love, or self-love. We emphasize the importance of finding joy, especially during times of hardship. Whether you are navigating the difficulties of being openly LGBTQ in Alabama or struggling with rejection from family or community, we want you to know: you are not alone, and your love—whoever it’s for—is valid and important.

As we face ongoing discrimination and legislative challenges, such as the restrictions on gender-affirming care and continuous efforts to roll back LGBTQ rights, it is crucial for LGBTQ individuals to focus on mental wellness. Shoals Diversity Center remains committed to providing the resources and support necessary for people to thrive despite these challenges. Our counseling services and peer support groups are here to provide safe spaces where you can talk openly about your struggles, find affirmation, and build resilience.

This month, we are also offering a special series of self-care workshops, specifically designed to help LGBTQ individuals and allies prioritize their mental health. These workshops will focus on mindfulness, stress management, and cultivating positive relationships—all essential tools for navigating the unique challenges our community faces.

As we reflect on the significance of love in February, we also encourage action. If you are an ally, take this month as an opportunity to show your support for the LGBTQ community. Whether through advocacy, education, or simply offering a kind word, your actions make a difference.

Let’s celebrate love in all its diversity, knowing that together we can continue to build a more inclusive and supportive community here in Northwest Alabama.

March 2024

Book Recommendation: Surviving Transphobia 

As we enter March 2024, Shoals Diversity Center is focused on the power of change and advocacy, while also preparing to celebrate the International Day of Transgender Visibility on March 31st. This month marks the beginning of spring, a season of renewal and growth, and we’re reminded that positive change for the LGBTQ community is not only possible—it’s essential. Despite ongoing challenges, especially here in Alabama, we remain hopeful that advocacy efforts and increasing visibility will create lasting impact.

The legislative landscape continues to be a concern for LGBTQ individuals, particularly for transgender people in Alabama. Recent attempts to pass restrictive laws targeting transgender youth, including bans on gender-affirming care, have left many feeling vulnerable and fearful. These policies contribute to a climate of isolation and discrimination, directly impacting the mental health and well-being of our transgender community members.

This is why the International Day of Transgender Visibility is so important. Celebrated annually on March 31st, this day is dedicated to honoring transgender and nonbinary individuals, celebrating their resilience, and raising awareness about the discrimination they face. Here at Shoals Diversity Center, we believe that visibility is a powerful tool for change. When transgender people are seen, heard, and valued, it challenges harmful stereotypes and breaks down the barriers of ignorance and fear that fuel discriminatory laws and attitudes.

In honor of this day, we will be hosting a series of events throughout March leading up to March 31st. These events will include educational panels, workshops on transgender rights, and opportunities for allies to learn how to support their transgender friends, family members, and colleagues. We also encourage everyone in the community to join us for our Transgender Visibility Day celebration on March 31st, where we will gather to honor the courage and contributions of transgender individuals here in Alabama and across the globe.

This month is also about action. Advocacy isn’t just for public figures—it’s something we can all engage in. Shoals Diversity Center is offering advocacy training workshops that will equip community members with the tools they need to make their voices heard. Whether it’s contacting local representatives or organizing grassroots efforts, these workshops will empower individuals to fight for the rights and dignity of our transgender community, especially during these challenging times.

We also want to emphasize the importance of self-care. The journey of advocacy and visibility can be emotionally taxing, and taking care of yourself is essential. Our mental health resources, peer support groups, and counseling services are here for those who need them.

As we move forward this month, let’s embrace change with open hearts and honor the importance of transgender visibility. Together, we can continue the fight for a more inclusive Alabama and ensure that everyone, regardless of their gender identity, is seen, supported, and celebrated.

April 2024

Advocacy Recommendation: LGBT Rights Shirt Silence Death Vintage Month LGBT Pride T-Shirt

As April 2024 begins, Shoals Diversity Center continues its mission to support the LGBTQ community in Northwest Alabama, focusing this month on the power of solidarity and the importance of being heard—even in silence. This April, we recognize a critical event for LGBTQ youth: the National Day of Silence, organized by GLSEN and supported by GLAAD. The Day of Silence will be held on April 12th, 2024, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles that many LGBTQ youth face, particularly those who are silenced by bullying, discrimination, or exclusion.

The Day of Silence, founded in 1996, is an annual student-led event where participants take a vow of silence to highlight the silencing and erasure of LGBTQ people in schools. The silence represents the voices that are stifled by hostile environments, discriminatory policies, and a lack of acceptance. By remaining silent for a day, students bring attention to the harmful impact of homophobia and transphobia in schools and create a platform for future conversations about inclusion, safety, and respect for all students.

At Shoals Diversity Center, we believe that this day holds profound significance, especially in a state like Alabama, where LGBTQ youth continue to face heightened risks of bullying and mental health struggles. For many, the experience of being bullied or excluded can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. That’s why we encourage all schools, educators, and allies in our community to support students who participate in the Day of Silence and to use this moment as an opportunity to foster a more inclusive environment.

Throughout April, we’ll be offering resources and support to students, parents, and educators to help them prepare for the Day of Silence. This includes providing information on how to participate safely, workshops on how to advocate for LGBTQ-inclusive policies in schools, and creating spaces for LGBTQ youth to share their experiences and receive the support they need.

While the Day of Silence is about amplifying awareness, it’s also about action. After the silence is broken, conversations about how we can better support LGBTQ youth must continue. We believe that through collective effort, we can create an educational environment where every student—regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity—feels safe, supported, and valued.

As we move through April, let’s come together in solidarity with those who have been silenced. Let’s use our voices, our actions, and even our silence to stand up for LGBTQ youth and ensure that they are never left without the support they deserve.

May 2024

Book Recommendation:

Bi: Bisexual, Pansexual, Fluid, and Nonbinary Youth

As we enter May 2024, Shoals Diversity Center is excited to celebrate Pansexual and Panromantic Awareness and Visibility Day on May 24th. This day is dedicated to recognizing and honoring those who identify as pansexual and panromantic, individuals whose attraction is not limited by gender. In a time when labels often feel constraining, the visibility of pansexual and panromantic people is crucial in expanding our understanding of love, identity, and inclusion.

Pansexual and panromantic identities are often misunderstood or overlooked, even within the LGBTQ community. Some mistakenly assume that pansexuality is just another term for bisexuality, but the difference lies in the fact that pansexuality encompasses attraction to all genders or regardless of gender, whereas bisexuality traditionally refers to attraction to two or more genders. Panromantic individuals experience romantic attraction in this same way, independent of gender.

Visibility matters because pansexual and panromantic individuals face unique challenges. Misunderstandings about their identities can lead to erasure or invalidation, which can cause feelings of isolation or confusion. That’s why Pansexual and Panromantic Awareness Day is so important—it’s a time to amplify their voices, celebrate their experiences, and push back against stereotypes or misconceptions.

At Shoals Diversity Center, we are committed to ensuring that all individuals within the LGBTQ community, including those who are pansexual and panromantic, feel seen and supported. In honor of this day, we’ll be hosting an awareness campaign throughout the month of May to educate our community on what it means to be pansexual or panromantic. This includes sharing personal stories from pan community members, providing educational resources, and offering support groups where individuals can connect and share their experiences.

On May 24th, we invite you to join us in celebrating Pansexual and Panromantic Awareness and Visibility Day. Whether you identify as pan, are an ally, or simply want to learn more, this day is an opportunity to show solidarity and to ensure that everyone in our community knows they are loved and accepted, no matter who they are or who they love.

As we move forward in May, let’s continue working toward a world where all forms of love and attraction are honored and respected. Visibility is more than just being seen; it’s about being understood and valued. At Shoals Diversity Center, we are proud to stand with our pansexual and panromantic community members and look forward to continuing to create spaces where everyone feels welcome and supported.

June 2024

Celebrating Renaissance City Pride in Florence

As June 2024 begins, Shoals Diversity Center is thrilled to kick off Pride Month by hosting the 6th annual Renaissance City Pride in Florence, Alabama. This event has become a beacon of hope and celebration for LGBTQ individuals in Northwest Alabama, and we couldn’t be prouder of the impact it continues to have in our community. Renaissance City Pride will take place on June 7th, bringing together people from across the region to celebrate love, equality, and the strength of our community.

Renaissance City Pride holds a special place in the hearts of many. Florence may be a "blue dot in a red state," as GLAAD aptly described it, but this event shows that even in the heart of the Deep South, acceptance and joy can flourish. Over the past five years, this celebration has grown from a small gathering into one of Alabama’s largest Pride events, highlighting the resilience and vibrancy of the LGBTQ community in a region that often faces challenges in the fight for equality.

This year, as Shoals Diversity Center hosts the 6th annual Renaissance City Pride, we’re excited to bring an even larger array of activities to the heart of Florence. The day will feature a vibrant parade through downtown, live music, drag performances, food trucks, local vendors, and opportunities to connect with LGBTQ-friendly organizations and services. But more than that, Renaissance City Pride is a space where people can come together, be themselves, and experience the full joy of what it means to be part of the LGBTQ community.

The event isn’t just for those who identify as LGBTQ—it’s for everyone. Allies, families, and friends are encouraged to join in the festivities and show their support. Pride is about more than celebration; it’s about visibility and advocacy, reminding everyone that our voices matter and that we belong.

At Shoals Diversity Center, we know that events like Renaissance City Pride are vital in fostering a sense of belonging, especially in areas like Northwest Alabama, where LGBTQ individuals often feel isolated. The community we’re building here is strong, and we invite you to be part of this year’s celebration. Together, we’ll continue to create a safe, supportive, and loving environment for all.

As we reflect on the growth of Renaissance City Pride over the past six years, we look forward to seeing even more faces and hearing even more stories of courage and acceptance. Let’s make this Pride the best one yet, showing Alabama and the world that love will always win.

June is also a big wedding month and here is a beautiful Emerald Cut Rainbow Moissanite Eternity Ring 

July 2024

For our July Blog, we want to share the article from GLAAD.org written about our Pride. 

Becca Moon, President and Co-Founder of Shoals Diversity Center and the visionary behind Renaissance City Pride (RCP), now in its fifth year, has morphed what began as a small dance party inside a Marriott Hotel room into a thriving nonprofit and annual LGBTQ Pride business expo and music festival in one of the most unexpected places—Florence, AL.

The two-day Pride event, which kicked off on June 7 with a drag show extravaganza at the Up Late Vivian Theatre and culminated with the signature RCP outdoor music festival, drew over 300 LGBTQ people and allies each day to the small-town, family-friendly Pride event. For Moon and the six original and current RCP organizers, LGBTQ visibility in the heart of the Bible belt is a dream realized.

“We wanted to create something we never had growing up,” Moon said, describing the impetus for creating Shoals Diversity Center and RCP. “[People] needed more support than just one party a year.”

Steven Cardenas, 23, an RCP organizer, drag performer (Emerald Jade), and Florence native raised in Birmingham, was one of those people.

“In Birmingham, the community is so big, it’s so diverse. But here in Florence, I didn’t know we had it [PRIDE],” Cardenas said. “I felt alone when I first moved [back] here until I started making friends and was introduced to Becca. I’ve been a part of Pride every single year since. There’s not a year that goes by that I don’t help,” they said.

Out as gay to their religious conservative adopted family since they were 16, Cardenas began embracing their nonbinary identity three years ago. Cardenas tells GLAAD that Moon has been a lifesaver.

“Being told that I’d go to hell [for being gay], and if I stepped into a church, it’d burn to the ground was rough,” Cardenas said, recalling early messages they received from relatives about their sexuality. “Becca has been a lifesaver. She’s been someone that I can talk to constantly,” they added.

“I was under the delusion for years that I was the only queer person in town,” said Jonathan Dunlap, 40, a Shoals Diversity Center board member and HIV Prevention Educator at Thrive Alabama—a major fiscal sponsor of RCP.

Like Cardenas, Dunlap also grew up in a conservative religious home. He admits that he spent the first 20 years of his life attempting to “pray the gay away.”

“The closet is a deadly place after a while for many of us—some people can do it for their whole lives, and that’s okay if that’s what they choose. But it was literally killing me,” Dunlap admits. “[I was] hiding so much of myself, having no authenticity with my family or with the majority of my friends, and I saw that life could be more than that. So I had to give it a shot,” he said.

Dunlap tells GLAAD that after hiding his truth for years, it’s a “big change to be out and okay.”

A common misconception about LGBTQ people living in the South, specifically Alabama, is that the heterosexual majority is hostile toward its LGBTQ neighbors and that the queer experience is monolithic. Moon says this couldn’t be further from the truth.

“We are such a different area than the rest of Alabama,” she said. “Even politically, many people refer to Florence as the blue dot in a red state. So there’s a little bit more open-mindedness and diversity here. We have the University of North Alabama, so I know it helps with that open-mindedness and diversity of thought,” she added.

But like Pride events in major cities, anti-LGBTQ protesters are as common as drag queens on a parade float. Two protesters, a street preacher on a megaphone, and another man with the phrase “Can We Talk?” written on a mobile Christian cross went largely ignored by RCP attendees and disappeared as quickly as they arrived. Their lack of an organized presence in a park with multiple houses of worship surrounding it on every corner reflects the social progress happening in a city where it’s least expected and where, eight years ago in the same spot, Moon tells GLAAD the unthinkable occurred.

“The KKK showed up in full gear at one outside event that we had, which was really weird,” Moon said. They had the red sheets over their heads. It was scary, but nothing happened. The police were there, and they [KKK] were just watching, and they just stood there. They didn’t do or say anything. I guess they thought we would be intimidated and run away,” Moon said defiantly. “But nothing happened, and they haven’t been around since.”

For queer locals who don’t have access to LGBTQ safe spaces or bars in Florence, the existence of RCP and Shoals Diversity Center goes beyond the two-day Pride event.

“Having it close and local really makes it important because kids are coming around, and they’ll be able to understand and grow up, and hopefully, they’ll be able to see it’s okay to be yourself, and it’s okay to be gay or nonbinary or trans,” said Riley, a bisexual RCP attendee.

Shelle Lichti, an out lesbian and creator of the Rainbow Rider, an LGTBQ advocacy truck that travels to 48 states, was stationed in front of Wilson Park for RCP. Lichti tells GLAAD that despite anti-LGBTQ sentiment across the country and vandalism attempts on her truck, arriving at full LGBTQ equality is worth the bumps in the road.

“I knew the bulls-eye I was putting on myself when I developed this truck,” Lichti said. “But the more people do to us, the more it helps me tell the story and proves why it needs to exist.”

As quickly as RCP came to a close in the sweltering Alabama sun, preparations for RCP 2025, after a day or two of much-earned rest for the organizers, are set to begin. It’s a labor of love for RCP organizers and a recurring gig with a reward rooted in community that exceeds any monetary gain.

“To be here and to help this community prosper makes me happy,” Cardenas said. “To come into the new age of Pride celebrations—to finally feel comfortable to live as our authentic selves—I’d be lying if I said I’m not happy. I’m happy.”

August 2024

As we move into August 2024, Shoals Diversity Center is taking the time to honor an important date for the LGBTQ community and beyond: Southern HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, which takes place on August 20th. This day is a critical reminder of the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS, particularly in the South, where rates of infection remain disproportionately high, and access to care can be limited.

The Southern United States bears the greatest burden of new HIV infections in the country. In fact, states like Alabama have some of the highest rates of HIV transmission, especially within LGBTQ communities, communities of color, and those living in poverty. Stigma, lack of comprehensive healthcare, and insufficient resources only compound the challenges faced by those living with HIV in the South. Southern HIV/AIDS Awareness Day was established to draw attention to these issues and to inspire action, education, and support.

At Shoals Diversity Center, we understand that the fight against HIV/AIDS is not over, and we are committed to being part of the solution. On August 20th, we will host several events and workshops focused on HIV prevention, testing, and education. These will include free, confidential HIV testing, information on how to access PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), and guidance on supporting those living with HIV. Our goal is to provide the community with the tools they need to protect their health and the health of others while reducing the stigma that surrounds this disease.

One of the biggest barriers to addressing HIV in the South is the pervasive stigma that still exists around the virus. Many people avoid getting tested or seeking treatment out of fear of judgment or discrimination. This is why awareness days like Southern HIV/AIDS Awareness Day are so crucial—they remind us that we all have a role to play in breaking down stigma and ensuring that those affected by HIV are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.

As we observe Southern HIV/AIDS Awareness Day this year, we encourage everyone to take action—whether it’s getting tested, educating yourself about HIV, or simply showing support for those living with the virus. Together, we can fight the spread of HIV and work toward a future where everyone, regardless of their HIV status, can live healthy and fulfilling lives.

At Shoals Diversity Center, we are committed to raising awareness, promoting prevention, and supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS in Northwest Alabama and beyond. Let’s come together this August 20th to be a part of the change.

For more on HIV in Florence AL, check out our educational awareness video interviews, HERE.  

September 2024

Perfect Football Season Gift: LGBT Rainbow Wearable Flannel Blanket Hoodie, Oversized Blanket 

Drag Bingo is back at the Lava Room. 

As September 2024 arrives, Shoals Diversity Center is excited to highlight one of our most popular and joyful events: Drag Bingo. While it may seem like just a fun night out, Drag Bingo holds a special place within LGBTQ culture, offering a space for laughter, community, and celebration of the artistry of drag. It’s more than just a game—it’s an expression of identity and belonging, and it serves as a bridge to bring people together across diverse backgrounds.

For those unfamiliar, Drag Bingo combines the classic game of bingo with the fabulous and entertaining world of drag performances. During the event, drag queens (or kings) call out bingo numbers with humor, sass, and charisma, while performing in between rounds. The combination of a familiar game and the vibrant energy of drag creates an atmosphere that is both welcoming and empowering for the LGBTQ community and allies alike.

Drag Bingo is important for many reasons. First, it highlights the art of drag, which has long been a cornerstone of LGBTQ culture. Drag has historically provided a platform for LGBTQ individuals to express their true selves in bold, creative, and sometimes subversive ways. Drag performers use makeup, fashion, and performance to challenge societal norms around gender and identity, offering a powerful form of self-expression that is both entertaining and deeply meaningful.

In addition to celebrating drag, Drag Bingo also plays an important role in fostering community. For many LGBTQ individuals, especially in more conservative areas like Alabama, finding spaces where they can be themselves without fear of judgment or discrimination is crucial. Events like Drag Bingo provide a safe, inclusive space where people can relax, have fun, and connect with others who share similar experiences. It’s a night where differences are celebrated, and everyone is welcome.

Moreover, Drag Bingo often serves as a fundraiser for LGBTQ organizations like Shoals Diversity Center, helping us continue our work supporting LGBTQ mental health and advocacy in Northwest Alabama. By participating, attendees are not only having a great time but also contributing to vital resources and services for the community.

As we host our next Drag Bingo event this month, we invite everyone—whether you’ve attended before or are new to the experience—to join us for a night of fun, laughter, and celebration. Drag Bingo is a reminder of the joy, resilience, and creativity of LGBTQ culture, and we’re proud to continue this tradition here in Florence. Check our social media for updated times.

October 2024

As October approaches, Shoals Diversity Center is preparing to celebrate National Coming Out Day on October 11th. This day serves as an important reminder of the significance of coming out as LGBTQ and the various journeys individuals take in embracing their identities. For many, coming out can be a pivotal moment of self-acceptance, empowerment, and authenticity, while also fostering greater understanding and visibility within society.

National Coming Out Day was first celebrated in 1988, born out of the LGBTQ rights movement. The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of coming out, not only for those who identify as LGBTQ but also for allies who can help create supportive environments. By sharing personal stories and experiences, individuals can contribute to a culture of acceptance, encouraging others to embrace their identities without fear of judgment or discrimination.

At Shoals Diversity Center, we recognize that coming out is a deeply personal experience that varies for each individual. For some, it may be a gradual process, while for others, it may be a singular event. Regardless of the journey, coming out can lead to a sense of relief, validation, and connection. However, it can also come with challenges, especially in environments where acceptance is not guaranteed. That’s why it’s essential to create safe spaces for individuals to explore their identities and share their stories.

To honor National Coming Out Day, we will host a series of events designed to support those considering coming out or seeking to share their stories. These will include workshops on navigating the coming-out process, peer support groups, and opportunities for individuals to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. We want to ensure that everyone feels empowered and supported in their journey, regardless of where they are on their path to self-discovery.

Additionally, we encourage allies to participate in National Coming Out Day by showing their support for the LGBTQ community. Allies play a crucial role in fostering acceptance and understanding. By standing alongside LGBTQ individuals and advocating for equality, allies can help create a more inclusive environment that empowers everyone to live authentically.

As we approach October 11th, let’s take this opportunity to celebrate the courage it takes to come out and to honor those who have paved the way for greater visibility and acceptance. At Shoals Diversity Center, we stand with the LGBTQ community and are committed to providing the resources, support, and love that every individual deserves. Together, we can continue to create a world where everyone can be proud of who they are.

Preview of November Post 2024

As November approaches, Shoals Diversity Center will honor Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20th. This important day is dedicated to memorializing those lost to anti-transgender violence and raising awareness about the ongoing discrimination and violence faced by the transgender community. Our upcoming blog will explore the significance of this day, share personal stories of resilience, and highlight the importance of advocacy and allyship. We invite everyone to join us in reflecting on the lives of those we’ve lost, as well as to celebrate the strength and courage of transgender individuals in our community. Together, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.