In a surprising and concerning move, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has announced significant funding cuts to community-based HIV and STI prevention programs. This decision comes on the heels of Governor Youngkin’s recent announcement of a $1.2 billion budget surplus, raising questions about the state’s commitment to public health, especially for vulnerable populations. The…
Advocacy
Understanding Intimate Partner Violence in the Context of Disability Pride Month
July is Disability Pride Month, celebrating the achievements, contributions, and identities of people with disabilities while raising awareness about their challenges. Initiated in 1990, the year the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law, this month is also a crucial time to address the heightened risk of violence faced by individuals with disabilities….
Supporting LGBTQ+ Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence
Unique Challenges and Misconceptions Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) manifests at similar or even higher rates within LGBTQ+ relationships as it does in heterosexual ones. However, distinct challenges within the LGBTQ+ community—such as a deep-seated mistrust of law enforcement, the fear of being outed against one’s will, and widespread misconceptions about the nature of IPV—can make…
Admiral Levine Visits LGBT Life Center to Discuss Community Health
On Tuesday morning, October 24, 2023, LGBT Life Center had the honor of welcoming Admiral Rachel Levine, Assistant Secretary of Health for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Her visit marked a significant moment for our community, as we engaged in meaningful dialogue about the future of LGBTQAI+ health and strategies to end…
Saying Goodbye to Senator Dianne Feinstein, A Longtime LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate
Dianne Feinstein (1933 – 2023), the U.S. Senator from California, has long been a prominent figure in American politics, holding a seat in the Senate since 1992. Throughout her political career, Feinstein has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Her legislative efforts and support for policies promoting equality and anti-discrimination have had a national impact…
Gov. Glen Youngkin Administration Quietly Enacts a Form of “Don’t Say Gay” in Virginia
Gov. Glen Youngkin administration quietly enacts a form of “Don’t Say Gay,” in Virginia.
“No Gays Allowed” Now Essentially Protected by 303 Creative Supreme Court Ruling
The Supreme Court’s ruling in 303 Creative v. Elenis is a unprecedented blow to equality and freedom.
We condemn the policies against trans+ youth
The LGBT Life Center strongly condemns the harmful new policies proposed by Governor Youngkin that target transgender and gender non-conforming students. By removing safe spaces in the classroom, this policy will lead to higher suicide rates and worse mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ and specifically transgender+ youth.
Coming Out to Your Family in a Safe Manner
Written by Guest Contributor Jori Hamilton Even if you know your family will be supportive, coming out is rarely easy. However, it becomes much harder when you come from a strict or conservative family and you’re worried about how they might react, or you know that they won’t accept it. You might even worry you’ll…
Practical Considerations for Queer Love in a Post-Roe World
Written by Guest Contributor Jori Hamilton The overturning of Roe v. Wade has caused an uproar in our nation. However, a common misconception is that this ruling impacts only women. While women are obviously greatly affected by the decision, the ruling impacts many other groups, as well, which is exactly why it should be getting…