John –

This year has required so much from all of us, as we grappled with the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, navigated vaccinations, and began readjusting to in-person connections. We’ve faced a tidal wave of regressive policy in the states, from bills targeting transgender youth for discrimination to dangerous restrictions on reproductive health care. 

But 2021 has also provided us with so much hope. It’s been inspiring to see how our communities have come together to care for each other even as the pandemic stretched into a second year. In many states we were able to push back and ultimately defeat anti-transgender bills. And in North Carolina, LGBTQ people came together with more unity than ever to enact comprehensive local nondiscrimination protections in 16 communities statewide. 

The Campaign for Southern Equality’s work is about building communities where everyone can thrive, in every hometown in the South. Where we can be our full selves in every sphere of life. That means schools, work places, health clinics, and the places where everyday life happens. You help make that happen – whether you’re in Asheville or Jackson, Greenville or Memphis. Wherever this work takes us in your hometown, we will show up together.

Over the next few weeks, as we close out 2021, I’m excited that our staff members will be sharing stories of what we can make happen together. I’m proud of what we’ve built across the South –  and excited about what is in progress. 

Your support – and the support of an inspiring community of donors like you – makes all of this work possible. Please consider donating to the Campaign for Southern Equality and inviting your friends and loved ones to donate, too. Click here to make a donation.

Thank you,
Jasmine Beach-Ferrara
She/Her/Hers
Executive Director
Campaign for Southern Equality