Sponsored by Fenway Health , The Meeting Point 

2018 Lesbians+ of Color Forum: State of QPOC Affairs is a future forward, intimate consortium of LGBTQ+ people of color discussing challenges and developing strategies for resolution to mobilize and fortify our community.

In celebration of queer, transgender , and non-binary communities of color pride , this event is curated to ignite community building and foster leadership to affect systemic change in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Forum features advocates for social innovation and dynamic workshops to inform, empower , and mobilize LGBTQ+ communities of color.

For questions regarding media , sponsorship and donations , please contact Shaunya sthomas@locscollective.org

Early Bird/Pre-registration includes Brunch+Lunch |Raffles

Questions or comments , please contact info@locscollective.org

Cis Obsession: Barriers to Care for Trans People of Color

by Eziah Blake

Trans people of color are deeply impacted by the intersections of racism and transphobia. Because of this access to care comes riddled with obstacles. In this session we will explore the cis obsession with trans bodies, its impact beyond “have you had the surgery?” and the intersections of race in these interactions.

#METOO: CENTERING QTPOC SURVIVORS

BY HEMA SARANG-SIEMINSKI

What are the realities for QTPOC survivors of sexual violence? How do current legal, health, and social service systems for survivors promote or silence survivor voices? How and why must movements to end sexual violence center those survivors at the intersections of oppression? What can we learn from the QTPOC organizers working to end sexual violence in our communities? Join us for an interactive discussion unpacking these and many more questions as we envision a future free from sexual violence.

FROM SURVIVING TO THRIVING IN THE WORKPLACE

BY SINDHU REVULURI

In this session, participants will reflect on their goals, their work environment, and alignment of the two. We will discuss strategies for change, benefit from peer coaching about real-life situations, and develop an action plan catered to your needs and experiences. People at all career stages and working in all professional contexts are welcome.

GROWING OUR CREATIVE BIOME

BY AMANDA ZHANG

Why is it important for QTPOC communities to cultivate creative practices in arts, media, STEM, and beyond? What are barriers to unleashing our creative potential and how do we address lack infrastructure and self-sabotaging cultural myths? As I present points of consideration from my own experience, let’s map out the QTPOC creative ecosystem and develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions before us.

The Power of Self-Love to Create the Life of Your Dreams

by Allegretta, Alive