Here are 3 Queer-Friendly Memphis Community Orgs You Should Know
As queer and LGBT+ people, we need community more than ever, especially community that de-centers capitalism—a thing many of us struggle with. Research shows us that not having the support of people in your community, friends, and family, trying to survive a financial crisis, or the state of unjust laws and discrimination in society right now on your own can be stressful and can take a toll on your mental health.
So here are three community-driven organizations in the Memphis area for you to explore:
Barter Up 901
Barter Up 901 is a grassroots mutual aid collaborative in Memphis. Many of its members are queer but its an inclusive space that welcomes anyone who supports its mission. Barter Up 901 arranges frequent events where artists and vendors can exchange goods and services without the need for money.
They encourage attendees to bring something to donate for entry, and each vendor lets you know what they are willing to barter. The events often include performances by local musicians, poets and other artists too. It’s a community-driven space that promotes a different, anticapitalist way of thinking.
Consider attending Barter Up 901’s Swap N Shop Marketplace this Saturday at Planeta 777 Salon & Giftshop!
Memphis Foods Not Bombs
The Memphis Branch of Foods Not Bombs (FNB) is a vegetarian food service organization dedicated to nonviolence and social progress. It is committed to educating the public about issues related to homelessness and poverty, ranging from housing to health.
Every chapter gathers additional supplies from markets, grocers, and bakeries that would otherwise go bad and turns them into vegetarian and vegan communal dinners that are given away for free to anyone. In addition to recruiting more volunteers, they are now working on food sources and mobilizing people to rescue food.
Every first and third Saturday at 1:30 p.m., the Memphis Branch offers free vegan meals in Court Square Park. You may find more information by following @memphisfoodnotbombs on all major social media platforms.
OUTMemphis
OUTMemphis has been providing support to the LGBTQ+ Community in the Mid-South for the past 33 years. They strive to empower, connect, educate, and advocate for this multifaceted community. The nonprofit group offers various programs and services, including emergency aid, game nights, book clubs, counseling, free HIV testing, and more.
OUTMemphis states that its mission is to support LGBTQ+ causes and individuals, irrespective of their demographic, in their endeavors to engage in all aspects of civic life. Social events tailored to the needs of Latinx people, men of color, trans men and women of color, seniors, parents of queer youths, and all the intersections of the LGBTQ+ community and supporters are offered by them. They additionally organize social support groups and peer-led initiatives.
You may find more information by following @outmemphis on all major social media platforms or visiting their website.
In this story, we addressed some serious topics about mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, mental health issues, or a substance use crisis, please call, text, or chat 988, or contact the Memphis Crisis Center at 901-274-7477. Help is always available. You are not alone.
