One of the best ways to Support the LGBTQ+ community— particularly in these unprecedented times of social distancing and economic hardship— is to be mindful of where your hard-earned dollars are going. Check out some of these local LGBTQ+ owned businesses and queer community-focused organizations that could always use a financial boost.
Jennivee’s Bakery
Just because we can’t get together for big parties doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate at all— why not order something from Jennivee’s Bakery to make occasion (whatever it may be) extra-special?
View this post on InstagramAdvertisement@vitigrrl delivering the full mood for tonight’s @slomoparty #SloMoFromHomo . HANG ONTO YOUR LOVE AND HOPE! . Tix and details for the ZOOM party are at link in bio or watch on IG. live. We can’t make these moments for queer community connection happen without your support! Pls make a donation if you can and help spread the good Slo ‘Mo word! 8pm CST #sade
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Slo’ Mo (Slow Jams for Queer Fam)
This is a wholly inclusive party experience that has recently gone virtual. In April’s online events, attendees had the opportunity to donate in support of the participating DJs, and leftover donations (after artists had been paid) went to the Reunion Family Relief Fund. The party happens intermittently, but usually on Thursday and Sunday nights.
Reunion Relief Fund
Speaking of which, Reunion is a gallery, event space, and arts incubator in Humboldt Park whose aim is to “provide a collaborative and grounding environment for LGBTQ + folks & communities of color to create and commune freely.” Reunion has established a relief fund in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic to support LGBTQ+ and POC cultural producers.
AdvertisementView this post on InstagramWe know you've been missing Renee's Bloodys. Not to worry, we have bloody kits made with love. Happy Mothers Day!
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R Public House
This is an inclusive, welcoming pub in Rogers Park which helps to raise money for (among other causes) LGBTQ+ sponsored non-profits. If you want to help them continue to help the community, order some grub for curbside pickup.
Asrai Garden
Located in Wicker Park (with a newer second location in the West Loop), this shop offers floral arrangements, jewelry, candles, and more.
Women & Children First
Longtime queer-owned bookstore Women & Children First is a beacon of feminism and inclusivity. Consider throwing your support behind an institution that’s not only LGBTQ+ friendly but also an essential part of the independent bookselling landscape.
View this post on InstagramBrave Space Alliance was created to fill a gap in the organizing of and services to trans and gender-nonconforming people. Currently, very few LGBTQ+ social services or advocacy networks exist on the South and West Sides of Chicago. Furthermore, the few trans-specific resources in the city are located in majority-white neighborhoods on the North Side, which are inaccessible geographically, and also regularly result in the hyper-policing of trans people of color who attempt to access them. * * Check out the link in our bio for more information!
Brave Space Alliance
This organization works to provide supportive services for LGBTQ+ folks on Chicago’s South and West sides, particularly those relating to health and wellness, visibility, and solidarity. You can help these services continue and expand by making a donation.
Barbara & Barbara
Aside from being a talented bunch of stylists, the crew at this salon are part of an intentionally welcoming environment built around gender acceptance. They’ve established a fund to support their staff, and continue to sell gift cards and hair products through their online store.
View this post on InstagramHoping April showers will bring more May flowers just like these! Stunning floral piece by the one and only @jordanlentz! For future appointments and inquiries, reach out to Jordan at [email protected]! . . #jordanlentz #copperplatetattoo #chicagotattooartist #chicagotattooshop #privatetattoostudio #safetattoo #ladieswhotattoo #femaletattooartist #qttr #queertattooartist #gaytattooartist #blackworkers #blackandgreytattoo #dotworktattoo #floraltattoo #floraldotwork #naturetattoo #naturedrawings #supportchicagotattooartists #supportchicagotattooshops
Copperplate Tattoo
Female/queer-owned and operated, this tattoo studio is a great find for those looking to get some ink. While they’re closed for now as a non-essential business, you can support this great group of artists by purchasing a gift card for future tattooing.
Provoke Culture
This shop is owned and operated by queer women of color, and its merchandise (apparel, prints, pins, and more) celebrates identity with unique designs.
Featured Image Credit: Women & Children First
The post How to Support the LQBTQ+ Community in Chicago appeared first on UrbanMatter.
