Over the past three years, the “Queer to Stay” initiative has awarded funds to fifty LGBTQ+ businesses across the country. This year, the Human Rights Campaign and SHOWTIME® have increased their commitment to this program and will support at least an additional 25 small queer businesses.

At a time when LGBTQ+ businesses are working hard to stay open, they’re also faced with fighting against a wave of hate like we’ve never seen before. Opponents of progress seek to challenge the very existence of LGBTQ+ people and the spaces that they occupy. That is why LGBTQ+-serving businesses are so important; they provide a space for queer folks to be their authentic selves and live their best lives— and they’re not going anywhere. The Queer to Stay program aims to uplift these small businesses and provide them with the resources they need to continue making an impact in their communities— despite the aims of those who seek to silence us, we’re here to stay.

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