In recent months, we have witnessed a series of sweeping executive orders that have undeniably dismantled aspects of our government structured to protect and uplift vulnerable communities. This moment of upheaval, particularly marked by attacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, as well as on LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled people, immigrants, and those living with chronic illnesses, demands our attention and our action.
These actions represent a significant erasure of the liberation communities have fought hard to create in this country, and it’s vital that we shine a light on how this erasure is happening. From policy changes that restrict the rights of marginalized communities to the removal of support systems, we must remain brave and united as we witness and organize.
At QMF, we recognize the urgency of the situation. These blatant attacks and erasure isn’t just a political issue; it’s a deeply personal matter affecting the lives of many in our communities, our staff and our grantmaking panel. We are committed to shining a light on these injustices and responding with resilience and determination.
Here’s How We’re Responding
While it can be overwhelming to navigate these turbulent waters, we want to assure you that QMF is holding steady. Our funding remains stable, and we are dedicated to continuing our work in advocacy and grassroots organizing support as planned for 2025. We believe in the strength of our mission and the importance of making our voices heard when oppression demands we stay silent.
We continue providing not only financial support through our grantmaking program, but also through ongoing power building work with grantee organizations via a multitude of platforms that includes an Executive Director/Leadership Roundtable, Monthly Group Coaching, 1:1 Organizational Development Coaching, and grantee trainings and workshops that provide knowledge, skills and networking support to continue to grow organizations to hold steady in these times of deep strife. We need BIPOC Trans-led organizations and leadership to continue to grow, be supported, and resourced enough to organize through and beyond these vile attacks. QMF will remain steadfast in providing resources to build strong and stable leadership for our movement.
We understand that information is a powerful tool during moments of uncertainty. We encourage you to connect with organizations committed to advocacy and justice with our communities. We encourage you to support advocates, organizers and healers on the ground.
Some trusted organizations actively working to track and combat the effects of these recent attacks:
Lambda Legal: A national organization committed to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and everyone living with HIV.
Campaign for Southern Equality: Leveraging the power of community to fight for LGBTQ+ equality across the Southern United States. Lots of resources for tracking various bills and campaigns for fighting back.
Transgender Law Center: Focused on changing law, policy, and culture so that all transgender people can live safely, authentically, and free from discrimination.
Health Justice Commons: The Health Justice Commons works at the intersections of racial, economic, gender, disability, and climate justice to support marginalized communities to re-imagine and re-design healthcare and healing for our times.
BEAM: Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective: Beam is a national training, movement building, and grantmaking institution that is dedicated to the healing, wellness, and liberation of Black and marginalized communities.
The Embodiment Institute (TEI): The Embodiment Institute (TEI) is a training institute, research entity, and culture change engine that strategically develops people and organizations to be agents of transformation in families, social movements and the environment.
A Call to Action
As we journey through this difficult time, it’s essential to remain as informed and connected as possible. We urge you to raise your voice, share your experiences, and keep moving—whether through advocacy, sharing information, or supporting those directly affected. Together, we can resist the forces that seek to undermine our progress. Let’s hold steady, support one another, and work collectively towards a more equitable and just future for everyone. Stay connected, stay informed, and let’s rise to the occasion together. (And please also remember to take care of yourself, each other, and rest and recharge for the fight ahead). Thank you for being part of our community, and for your continued support in this critical work to make a stronger, more equitable society.
Remember, our grant cycle reopens on August 1, and we are excited to provide support to innovative projects that align with our mission and will continue to support the liberation of QTBIPOC people in the South. We invite you to stay connected with us and be part of this crucial work.
“It is our duty to fight for our freedom. It is our duty to win. We must love each other and support each other. We have nothing to lose but our chains.”
― Assata Shakur, Assata: An Autobiography
