This pioneering project addresses the inequities within our intersectional community by focusing on Health, Wellbeing, and Financial Literacy to fight HIV Stigma.
Project Ballroom+U
Our vibrant community, known as the Ballroom Scene, represents a rich tapestry interwoven with the diverse threads of Black, Indigenous, and Latinx LGBTQIA+ individuals, tracing back to the 1920s. Together, we gather to celebrate our resilience, express ourselves freely, and showcase boundless creativity through a myriad of categories forged from our history of survival.
Despite our collective strength, we face persistent social challenges and historical marginalization, often lacking access to vital resources and guidance to enhance our quality of life. The year 2023 saw a concerning surge in anti-LGBTQ legislation, with over 520 bills introduced into legislature, 220 specifically targeting trans and nonbinary people. Alarmingly, 70 of these bills were enacted across the USA, with some of the most aggressive measures implemented in the state of Florida. This legislative onslaught not only exacerbates existing disparities but also renders our already underserved community more vulnerable to health, financial, and well-being disparities.
Recognizing this urgent need, our organization introduces Project: Ballroom+U, a pioneering initiative aimed at addressing these critical issues head-on. This program is indispensable because LGBTQIA+ individuals are already disproportionately neglected in terms of access to resources essential for enhancing their quality of life. When compounded by the intersectional identities of being Black, Indigenous, and Latinx, these disparities are further magnified. Our mission is clear: to bridge this gap and provide vital support to our resilient and deserving community.
Our Goals
Project: Ballroom+U is anchored by three pivotal goals to be achieved. Firstly, we aim to empower Black, Indigenous, and Latinx LGBTQIA+ members of the Florida ballroom scene with essential education on financial literacy, civic engagement, health and mental well-being to aid in intersectional racial justice. Secondly, we are committed to fostering safe and inclusive spaces that promote advocacy, community, and de-stigmatization related to HIV. Lastly, we strive to establish a network of accessible health, financial, and well-being resources tailored to our community's unique needs.
To achieve these goals, Project: Ballroom+U employs a multifaceted approach. We engage our community through culturally relevant programs such as mainstream balls, kiki balls, and exhibitions. Additionally, we offer educational workshops covering life skills, overall health, and entrepreneurship, equipping participants with valuable knowledge and tools. Furthermore, we facilitate community engagement activities beyond the balls, creating nurturing environments where individuals can freely express themselves and forge lasting connections.
Central to the Ballroom Scene are our events, or "balls," which provide a judgment-free space for Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and LGBTQIA+ individuals to express themselves authentically and find community. Within these safe spaces, we seamlessly integrate health resources like HIV testing, Health screenings, Prevention services, etc., aiming to normalize seeking support and increase awareness. Coupled with curated workshops that educate on finances and wellbeing, these initiatives empower individuals to advocate for themselves, fostering personal growth and professional development. Additionally, we will accomplish goals by vetting and engaging community partners that offer services or meet community needs, subsequently adding them to our accessible network.
