COVID-19 as an LGBTQ2S+ Oklahoman
Dear Friends,
We know you have been carefully following the news and recommendations regarding COVID-19. Thank you for valuing your health and that of your communities. As the spread of this novel virus increases, LGBTQ+ people are understandably concerned about our increased vulnerability.
We at Freedom Oklahoma have, along with over 100 other LGBTQ+ organizations, signed a letter highlighting the increased vulnerability for our community. We are monitoring responses from our government and remain vigilant in our efforts to ensure that our communities are adequately served during this outbreak.
If you or someone you know has experienced unequal care because of who you are, we are here to help. You can contact us here. LGBTQ+ communities understand all too well the harms of stigma and inadequate and unequal treatment. We also know how to rise to a challenge. Together, we will ensure that the unique needs of each of our communities are met.
Guidance from our government is limited right now. As such, it is incumbent upon our communities to take steps to protect ourselves. We must now work together to slow the spread of this virus.
Even if you are not personally afraid of contracting the virus, consider those in our circles with compromised respiratory systems. Consider those in our communities who are immunocompromised. Consider the impact on our health care system. Consider those in and outside of our community who cannot afford to miss even one paycheck, or who do not feel safe seeking medical attention due to immigration status or consistent mistreatment in the medical system. Consider our elders, who fought like hell for every bit of dignity our community experiences today.
Being a responsible community member means making some personal sacrifices.
Please practice social distancing by
avoiding crowded bars
postponing nonessential travel
cancelling or postponing all large gatherings of people
respecting a 6-10 foot distance between yourself and other humans
If you have a cough or fever, please stay home if at all possible. We understand that our communities are disproportionately impacted by the potential economic fallout of these times. We are compiling resources that speak to that need and will make that available in the coming days.
For most of us, this is an unprecedented event for our lifetimes. There are some undeniably tough times in our immediate future. But we have weathered storms before. We know how to take care of each other. Let’s also take care of ourselves (mental health included).
Challenging times have always brought us together. That spirit is alive and well in our communities. We will move forward, together.
With love,
Allie Shinn
Executive Director
she/her/hers