Dear Friend,

Black lives matter, and so does black history. 

In the spirit of celebration and education, and as a proud resident of Chicago, I just visited the birthplace of Black History Month in Bronzeville, Chicago. I made a short video about the rich culture, art, black, and queer history there. Watch it here.

On top of being the birthplace of Black History Month, Bronzeville, Chicago had a thriving queer nightlife that attracted LGBTQ people from around the country.

​​​​​Dances, masquerades, drag balls, and LGBTQ bars were popular there, and there were many safe spaces to identify as LGBTQ. 

As we round out Black History Month, we remember those who created and fought for these safe spaces. Without them, our work providing safety for queer immigrants of color would not be possible today.    

In celebration (all year round),

Harris Salim, Communications Manager
Immigration Equality
rt LGBTQ Families