Friend, in honor of Black History Month, we’re sharing some words from an incredible advocate: Jae Rice (he/him), Interim CEO & Director of Communications at the Brave Space Alliance, the first Black transgender-led LGBTQ center in Chicago. Brave Space Alliance is a beacon of hope and support for the Black LGBTQ community, focused on providing culturally equitable resources to Black, Indigenous, and Brown trans folks. The center also operates several programs including identity-based support groups, gender-affirming resources, and mutual aid efforts. Jae Rice chatted with us about what it means to be able to make brave spaces for Black LGBTQ young people:

Brave Space Alliance is about more than just creating safe spaces. Jae notes that, “for Black trans folks, there’s no way folks can guarantee our safety. But what we can guarantee is that we show up in spaces as brave as possible.” The organization reminds us all to show up bravely: to step beyond allyship for Black LGBTQ young people and to be there as a friend, confidant, and advocate.