In this powerful episode of Queer Storytime, we dive deep into the urgent and historical topic of mutual aid within the LGBTQIA+ community. From the Stonewall era to the HIV/AIDS crisis and today’s escalating attacks on gender and sexually affirming health care, mutual aid has been a lifeline for queer and trans folks.

Stevie lays out the distinction between charity and solidarity, highlighting why institutional approaches often fall short. As mainstream LGBTQIA+ organizations amass wealth, the most vulnerable in our community — Black and Brown trans folks, unhoused queer youth, disabled queer individuals, and those living under oppressive legal systems — are left behind.

This episode announces a groundbreaking new initiative: A Mutual Aid Collective for LGBTQIA+ Health & Wellbeing. This network will provide access to holistic health resources, guidance, and sliding-scale services for queer and trans individuals, especially those living in states where affirming healthcare is under attack.

Listen now to learn about our community’s resilience, why we need to reclaim the true spirit of mutual aid, and how you can support this collective effort. Remember, our survival is the ultimate act of resistance.

Key Topics Covered:

• The historical precedent of mutual aid within the LGBTQIA+ community.
• The distinction between charity and solidarity.
• Criticism of mainstream LGBTQIA+ organizations hoarding wealth.
• Introduction of the Mutual Aid Collective for LGBTQIA+ Health & Wellbeing.
• How listeners can support or access this new initiative.
• Calls for community-based, nonhierarchical, direct aid over bureaucratic charity models.

✨ Get Involved: If you’re in a position to contribute financially, share skills, or simply spread the word, support the Mutual Aid Collective by visiting here - https://givebutter.com/rainbowcarefund

💖 Need Support? If you are queer or trans and need holistic health services, don’t hesitate to reach out. This initiative is designed for you.

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If this episode resonated with you, Stevie encourages you to share it widely! This will also help QST expand to an even bigger audience globally. We would also appreciate you leaving a written/star review to help us build our collective effort to liberate all queer and trans people globally.

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Host: Stevie Inghram, M.S., YT, AWC, NMS-4 (She/They)