Standby GVL

03/02/2024

Houston, Texas — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s recent demand for PFLAG National to disclose the identities of its transgender members has sparked controversy and legal action. In a legal filing on Thursday, PFLAG National moved to block Paxton’s demand, arguing that it constitutes retali...

02/29/2024

In the landscape of LGBTQ+ rights, particularly concerning transgender individuals, the battle against discriminatory legislation rages on. With over 400 bills targeting transgender people already in circulation in 2024, concerns about the potential impact of such laws have reached a fever pitch. To...

02/24/2024

Man Found Guilty in First Federal Hate Crime Trial Over Gender Identity in the U.S.
***rPress

Columbia, S.C. — In a landmark ruling, a South Carolina man, Daqua Lameek Ritter, has been found guilty of a hate crime in the killing of Dime Doe, a Black transgender woman, marking the nation’s first federal trial over an alleged hate crime based on gender identity. The verdict was reached aft...

12/01/2023

Beyonce’s RENAISSANCE is not only a celebration of black & brown q***r talent & ballroom culture, it’s also a celebration of her late Uncle Jonny whom she lost due to complications with AIDS 25 years ago.

Reflecting on the album, Beyoncé says, "A big thank you to my Uncle Jonny. He was my godmother and the first person to expose me to a lot of the music and culture that serve as inspiration for this album. Thank you to all of the pioneers who originate culture, to all of the fallen angels whose contributions have gone unrecognized for far too long. This is a celebration for you."

Uncle Jonny represents so many names who have been forgotten. As 60,000+ fans in unison chanted at the top of their lungs, “Uncle Jonny made my dress/that cheap spandex, she looks a mess,” I could only think of the times where so many like Uncle Jonny were never spoken about.

The thousands of Black gay and q***r men lost to the HIV epidemic, many of whom are buried in potter’s fields in unmarked graves. The names of so many who have been forgotten and never celebrated.

We remember all of them this World AIDS Day.

Read more about Beyoncé’s & her Uncle Jonny this in the link below ⬇️⬇️

George M. Johnson narrates the queen's record-shattering, genre-bending tour.

12/01/2023

🌈 Today on World AIDS Day, we stand united in remembrance & solidarity with all of those affected by HIV/AIDS.

🕊️ Let’s honor those we’ve lost, raise awareness, & work together towards a future free from HIV/AIDS.

06/12/2023

🌈 Join StandbyGVL's Board of Directors and Empower the LGBTQIA+ Community! 🌟

Hey everyone! Are you passionate about creating a supportive and inclusive community for LGBTQIA+ individuals in and around the Upstate of South Carolina? Do you believe in the power of resources and advocacy to uplift and empower our diverse community? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you!

StandbyGVL, a vibrant LGBTQIA+ non-profit organization, is seeking dedicated individuals to join our board of directors. We are the hub of resources, support, and advocacy, working tirelessly to build a stronger and more inclusive community for all. 🌈💪🏼

As a board member, you will play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of StandbyGVL and ensuring that our programs and initiatives effectively serve the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community. Together, we can make a significant impact and create positive change for all individuals who call this region home. 🏳️‍🌈🌟

We welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about advancing LGBTQIA+ rights, promoting inclusivity, and connecting individuals with essential resources. Whether you bring expertise in nonprofit management, fundraising, community outreach, or possess lived experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community, your unique skills and perspectives are invaluable. 🙌🏽🌍

As a board member, you will have the opportunity to:

✅ Collaborate with a dedicated and passionate team of LGBTQIA+ advocates.
✅ Help shape the organization's strategic goals and initiatives.
✅ Ensure the effective governance and financial stewardship of StandbyGVL.
✅ Contribute to the development of innovative programs and resources.
✅ Advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and equality within the Upstate community.
✅ Make a lasting impact on the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.

If you are ready to join us in our mission to create a more inclusive and supportive community for LGBTQIA+ individuals, we invite you to apply to become a board member of StandbyGVL. Visit our website at www.standbygvl.org/board to learn more about the application process and requirements. 📧🌐

Please share this post with your friends, networks, and anyone who may be interested in joining our board. Together, we can build a brighter future for the LGBTQIA+ community in the Upstate of South Carolina!

Let's make a difference and ensure that every individual feels valued, accepted, and empowered. Join us on this incredible journey today! 🌈❤️

Our Board of Directors is committed to our community in which we serve. We are dedicated to inspiring LGBTQIA+ familiies to to connect and

06/12/2023

🌈🩸 Breaking Barriers: Eased Restrictions on Blood Donation by LGBTQIA+ Individuals in the US! 🌈🩸

Hey friends! 🌟 I'm thrilled to share some fantastic news that marks a major step forward in inclusivity and equality. The United States has finally eased restrictions on blood donation by LGBTQIA+ individuals, ensuring that more individuals can now contribute to this life-saving act. Let's celebrate this milestone together! 🎉🇺🇸

For years, outdated and discriminatory policies have prevented many members of the LGBTQIA+ community from donating blood simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It's been a frustrating and unjust barrier, but thankfully, progress is being made! 🌈🩸

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has revised its guidelines, moving away from a blanket ban on donations from gay and bisexual men to a more individualized risk assessment approach. This means that eligibility is determined based on behavior, rather than sexual orientation alone. It's a significant shift towards a more inclusive system. 🙌🏼💪🏽

While this change may not completely eradicate all barriers faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, it's undoubtedly a step in the right direction. It recognizes the importance of science, eliminates discrimination, and focuses on maintaining the safety and integrity of the blood supply. 🩸⚕️

This policy revision not only benefits the LGBTQIA+ community, but it also recognizes the generosity and willingness of countless individuals to help those in need. Together, we can save lives and create a more inclusive healthcare system. ❤️🏥

Let's take a moment to celebrate this progress and spread the word! Share this news with your friends, family, and networks. Encourage eligible LGBTQIA+ individuals to consider donating blood and remind everyone of the importance of a diverse and inclusive donor pool. 🗣️🩸

While we still have work to do to dismantle all discriminatory practices, let's recognize and appreciate this positive change. Together, we're making strides towards a more equitable society where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can contribute and make a difference. 🌍🌈

Read more about the new guidelines 👉🏼 https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-finalizes-move-recommend-individual-risk-assessment-determine-eligibility-blood-donations

Find a map of donation locations 🗺️📍 https://phlebotomyclassesnearyou.com/blood-donation-map-find-a-phlebotomist-near-you/

The FDA finalized recommendations for assessing blood donor eligibility using individual risk-based questions to reduce the risk of transfusion-transmitted HIV.

06/12/2023

🌈🏠 Introducing a Valuable Resource Guide for LGBTQ+ Elders 🌈🏠

Hey everyone! 👋🏼 We wanted to share some exciting news for our LGBTQ+ elders and their loved ones. 🌟

The LGBTQ+ Resource Guide for Elders by seniorhomes.com is a comprehensive and inclusive resource that offers a wealth of information, support, and guidance for navigating senior living options. It's an invaluable tool for those seeking safe and affirming communities as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. 📚🌈

This guide covers a wide range of topics, including:

✅ Understanding LGBTQ+ Rights in Senior Living
✅ Finding LGBTQ+ Friendly Communities
✅ LGBTQ+ Senior Care and Support Services
✅ Legal and Financial Considerations
✅ Health and Wellness Resources
✅ Social and Recreational Opportunities
✅ And much more!

Whether you're an LGBTQ+ elder exploring your options or a caregiver or family member looking to support your loved one, this resource guide has got you covered. 💪🏼🏳️‍🌈

To access the LGBTQ+ Resource Guide for Elders, simply visit www.seniorhomes.com/lgbtq-resource-guide or click the link in the comments below. It's free to download, and you'll find a wealth of information to empower and assist you on your journey. 📲💡

Let's spread the word about this incredible resource and ensure that our LGBTQ+ elders have the support they deserve. Share it with your friends, family, and networks, because knowledge is power! Together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate world for all generations. 🌍💖

Click this link 👉🏼 https://www.seniorhomes.com/senior-living-for-lgbtqia-adults/

Learn about LGBTQIA+-friendly cities, housing rights and financial aid using this guide to find suitable senior living options for you or your loved one.

06/10/2023

Get your FREE flag!

05/14/2023

🌸 Happy Mother's Day! 🌸

Today, we celebrate the incredible mothers and mother figures who have filled our lives with love, support, and endless inspiration. 💖

To all the moms out there, you are the heart and soul of our families. Your unconditional love, selflessness, and nurturing nature are truly remarkable. Your tireless dedication and sacrifices never go unnoticed. Today, we honor you and express our deepest gratitude for everything you do.

On this special day, let's also acknowledge the mothers who have LGBTQ+ children. Your acceptance, understanding, and unwavering support create safe spaces and build bridges of love and acceptance. You play a pivotal role in empowering your children to be their authentic selves, and we celebrate your embrace of their unique journeys.

To those who may be missing their mothers today, we hold you in our hearts. May you find comfort in cherished memories and the love that continues to surround you.

To all the individuals who serve as loving mothers to children who are not biologically theirs, we celebrate you too. Your unconditional love, guidance, and care make a world of difference. You are proof that motherhood knows no boundaries.

Today and every day, let's honor the diverse and beautiful tapestry of motherhood. May we continue to support, uplift, and appreciate the incredible moms who make our world brighter and our hearts fuller.

Happy Mother's Day! 💐💕

05/09/2023

We’re having a great time climbing all over Climb at Blue Ridge.

Come check out this family-friendly, fun, climbing gym for everyone!