Seattle LGBTQ Commission

03/25/2025

Calling all trans and nonbinary adults! --

Help improve cancer prevention and treatment for our community — and receive a $50 gift card for your time!

🏳️‍⚧️ University of Washington is conducting a study to hear from trans and nonbinary adults (18+) with experience in cancer prevention or treatment. Your voice matters!

💬 1-hour interview — share your insights and get compensated with a $50 gift card.

✅ Check if you’re eligible: Scan the QR code or visit tnb-crew.com/cancer-screening

📧 Questions? Reach out to Dr. Arjee Restar at [email protected]

Let’s make cancer care better — for, by, and with trans people. 🏳️‍⚧️✨

03/25/2025

Are you looking for resources to help you support your rainbow child?

MOSAIC is a support group for parents and caregivers of LGBTQ+ youth facilitated by therapists at SMYAL.

Mosaic provides a safe space for parents to learn how to de-stigmatize and normalize their children’s experiences. It also offers tools to negotiate your child’s safety, well-being, and healthy development within the family.

🎟️ MOSAIC is free and takes place virtually on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm ET through May 13th.

Registration is REQUIRED to join all MOSAIC Support Groups. If you are interested in joining, please reach out to [email protected] or visit SMYAL.org/ClinicalServices.

03/25/2025

The Seattle LGBTQ Commission proudly supports Seattle City Council in passing CB 120950, a key step in strengthening protections for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and allies in our city.

This ordinance, known as the Shield Law, ensures Seattle won’t cooperate with out-of-state investigations targeting those seeking or providing gender-affirming or reproductive health care. It also provides legal support to those affected by discriminatory laws and reaffirms our city’s commitment to nondiscrimination.

We also support Councilmember Rinck's Amendment. Amendment B takes this further by helping ensure cases involving these protections are handled at the state level, where resources are better equipped to defend against attacks on our rights. However, it also makes it a trigger law, meaning that if these state level protections were to be weakened or eliminated, Seattle will stand strong as a Shield City.

Seattle must lead with action, and this legislation is how we show up for our communities!

🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍🌈 Read our full letter of support below:

01/31/2025

The Seattle LGBTQ Commission applauds the Olympia City Council for making history by declaring Olympia Washington’s first LGBTQ+ sanctuary city. This vital step ensures protections and support for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly the transgender community, in a time when these safeguards are more important than ever.

We encourage Seattle and other cities across Washington to follow Olympia’s leadership in creating safe, inclusive communities for all. Together, we can continue building a state that upholds the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

11/24/2024

If you happen to be headed to Benaroya for today's concert, stop by our table and meet three of our amazing commissioners, Kody, Jason, and Barry to learn more about the commission and get some candy or some commission swag!

11/22/2024

𝐓𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐋𝐆𝐁𝐓𝐐𝐈𝐀𝟐𝐒+ 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲:

Like so many of you, each Commissioner has needed time to care for ourselves, look after our people, gather our thoughts, and have honest conversations with each other about the implications of this year’s local and national election results. We have heard what many of you have shared with us—your anxieties, fears, and questions about what the next four years could hold for our and every marginalized community, especially the trans and gender non-conforming communities who find themselves as targets once again in this nation. If we are honest, we share many of those uncertainties with you, too.

But it is also true that throughout our history, we have seen, time and again, that our communities are resilient. We do not bow down. We do not roll over. And we will not stand idly by while anyone on the local or national stage threatens to strip away our rights and dignity.

As LGBTQIA2S+ Seattlites, we stand together, and we stand strong. As your LGBTQ Commission, we promise you this: 𝐖𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒓.

We will continue to advise, advocate, and amplify—the foundation of our commitment to you and the city of Seattle. Over the coming years, we will continue to advise the Mayor’s office, the City Council, and all City departments on matters impacting the LGBTQ+ population. We will advocate tirelessly for your right to live, work, and love freely and authentically here in Seattle. And we will amplify your voices and stories to keep LGBTQ+ issues at the forefront of our city’s agenda.

We are also aware of our limitations as a volunteer advisory board. We are not policymakers and cannot alter federal, state, or county laws, but we promise to be your voice here in Seattle, and we will continue the boots-on-the-ground, everyday fight for the things you care about most.

Mindful of our history, we remember that grassroots movements drive monumental, long-lasting change.

So, we commit to fostering that power, here and now, in that same spirit. That is our fight, and here’s how we invite you to join us in keeping that fight alive:

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: We invite you to partner with us by sharing your joy, pride, and struggles in your lives and communities. Utilize forums like our social media to stay engaged, informed, and connected with us, and join our meetings on the third Thursday evening of every month to make your voices heard. We are here with you.

𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐜𝐲: We invite you to stand with us in championing policies that matter to you, including affordable housing, transgender healthcare accessibility, employment protections, community safety, and so many others. Let’s do our part to ensure that the Mayor’s office, City Council, and City departments uphold their commitment to LGBTQ+ rights. We are here for you.

𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬: We invite you to organize with us by strengthening relationships with local LGBTQIA2S+ organizations and allies. Let’s build a unified coalition for equality and push back against hate in all forms. We will continue to ensure every LGBTQIA2S+ Seattleite knows their rights and the resources available to them and experiences solidarity all across the city we love.

After all, we are here because of you.

Let’s unite our voices to make it unmistakably clear to our public officials and anyone else who needs to hear: 𝑾𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆. We promise not to falter or waver as we stand alongside you, today and every day, and face this uncertain future together.

In solidarity,
Seattle LGBTQ Commission

10/13/2024

Today, we remember Matthew Shepard, who was killed 26 years ago in an act of anti-LGBTQ+ violence.

The fight for safety, equality, and respect for our community is far from over. Events like this are exactly why we’re here—to remind the Seattle City Government and the broader community that real voices and lived experiences must guide decisions and shape policies. Every commissioner carries that responsibility to honor Matthew’s legacy by advocating for meaningful change and working towards a Seattle where everyone can live authentically, without fear.

Let’s continue to remember, advocate, and amplify those voices that need to be heard. We owe it to Matthew and to each other.

10/07/2024

📣YOUR VOICE MATTERS! 📣

Tell City Council what you want to see in the 2025-2026 budget.

You can speak at a public hearing or budget committee meeting, or submit a written comment anytime. Find out how here: https://bit.ly/seattle-budget

We encourage all community members to be an active part in local government- and this is your chance! Make your opinions, ideas, and expertise heard by the Seattle City Council.


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Image Description:
This graphic from the Seattle LGBTQ Commission and Seattle Office for Civil Rights announces two public hearings on the 2025-2026 Budget. The top includes logos and the website link "seattle.gov/lgbtq," with action buttons labeled "Advise," "Advocate," and "Amplify."

Hearing Details:

#1: Wednesday, October 16th at 5:00 PM
#2: Wednesday, November 12th at 5:00 PM
At the bottom, it reads: "Remote and In-Person -- Sign up for public comment now!" with a nighttime Seattle skyline in the background.

Photo sourced from: Jeff boyce httpswww.pexels.comphotocity-skyline-during-night-time-7103591.jpg

10/03/2024

Shanah Tovah to everyone celebrating Rosh Hashanah! 🌼

As the Jewish New Year begins, we hope it brings moments of reflection, renewal, and connection for all. This holiday is a reminder of the power of community, care, and hope for the future.

To our Jewish LGBTQ+ Seattle family, we hope your next year is amazing! Let’s all take this time to embrace kindness for ALL LGBTQIA+ community members.

Here’s to a year filled with peace, joy, and belonging. 💛

09/25/2024

A great opportunity for LGBTQIA+ senior female identifying folks!

🌈✨ Join our first Senior Women’s Discussion Group, tomorrow Thursday, Sept. 26th @ the GenPride Center starting at 4PM

Looking for a safe, supportive space to connect with other women-identifying LGBTQIA+ seniors? Our Senior Women’s Discussion Group is the perfect place to share your thoughts, and experiences, and build meaningful connections. 💬💖

📅 Meetings: 4th Thursday of every month (Thursday, Sept. 26th)
⌚Time: 4pm - 5:30pm
📍 Location: GenPride Center

1521 Broadway, Suite A, Seattle 98122

Interested in joining or learning more or perhaps becoming a facilitator for a support group? Message us or email Mariah at [email protected]! 💌

09/24/2024

LGBTQ Youth Group
North Bend
Ages 11-22
email: [email protected]

09/23/2024

🎉✨ Happy Bisexuality Day! ✨🎉

Today, we celebrate and honor the vibrant, diverse, and resilient bisexual community. Bisexuality Day is a time to recognize the unique experiences, challenges, and contributions of those who are attracted to more than one gender.

Let’s continue to uplift, support, and amplify the voices of our bisexual friends, family, and neighbors. You are seen, you are valued, and your identity matters.

Join us in embracing the beautiful spectrum of love and identity!

09/19/2024

Check out this highlight of Entre Hermanos!

Community Corner highlights the work of Seattle Human Services’ community partners in their own words. Our goal is to gather stories and photos that illustrate their amazing work on behalf of the people of Seattle. This month we're spotlighting Entre Hermanos! Learn more about the important work that they're doing to offer Latine cultural and health services to the LGBTQ+ community in a space that is affirming, safe, and supportive.
https://humaninterests.seattle.gov/2024/09/03/community-corner-entre-hermanos/

09/19/2024

Tomorrow at 9:30 AM, the City Council's Public Safety Committee will be holding a meeting on the Technology Assisted Crime Prevention Pilot Program. If this bill passes, it is likely to be voted on by the full Council on 9/24.

Several community organizations have raised concerns with the Seattle LGBTQ Commission, warning that this program could disproportionately harm our unhoused LGBTQIA+ and Black and Brown communities. We encourage everyone to attend, share your perspectives, and ensure that our most vulnerable voices are heard.

📅 When: Tomorrow, 9:30 AM
🔗 More Info & Link to Meeting: seattle.gov/council/committees/public-safety

Together, we can advocate for policies that prioritize safety and equity. Your voice matters!

09/18/2024

🌈 National HIV/AIDS & Aging Awareness Day 🌈

Today, we celebrate the strength and resilience of older adults living with HIV/AIDS in the LGBTQ community. With more than half of people living with HIV now aged 50 and older, it’s crucial to raise awareness and provide support for the unique challenges that come with aging and HIV.

Whether you’re advocating for better healthcare, reducing stigma, or offering a listening ear, your actions make a difference. Let’s continue to ensure that everyone receives the care and respect they deserve.

09/18/2024

The Seattle City Council passed the SOAP and SODA laws yesterday, 8-1, despite widespread opposition from the LGBTQ Commission, community organizations, and concerned citizens. Councilmember Morales stood alone in opposing this harmful legislation.

These laws disproportionately impact Black, Brown, and LGBTQ+ communities by criminalizing loitering and allowing SOAP and SODA orders for buyers and promoters of prostitution and drug convictions.

Our co-chair, Ashley Ford, spoke out at the meeting, urging the council to vote no:

"I'm here today to speak in opposition to SOAP & SODA legislation and to encourage City Council to engage with constituents from the diverse communities, specifically Black, Brown and LGBTQ folks, that will be disproportionately harmed by these racist policies.

At our last LGBTQ Commission meeting we spent a significant amount of our time hearing concerns from community members who are begging to be heard and fearful of what these laws will mean for them. We submitted a resolution to the council and have yet to receive a meaningful response. The Office for Civil Rights and the ACLU oppose these bills.

Doing something for the sake of doing something, without considering the racist and harmful implications is exactly why these laws were repealed to begin with and I implore the council to consider alternative, data-based options and specifically to engage with groups/organization (like us on the LGBTQ Commission) to create policies that address gun violence and human trafficking without putting LGBTQ people at undue risk.

We want to work with you, but we need you to work with us."

The Seattle LGBTQ Commission stands firm against these laws and will continue advocating for justice. If you stand with us, contact your city councilmembers today!