Rising Together: The Urgent Call for Black Voices in Minnesota's LGBT Community

Minnesota has long been seen as a place of progress and inclusion, yet many Black members of the LGBT community feel unheard and underrepresented. Complaints about the lack of spaces, the high cost of participation, or the feeling that "there isn’t anything here for us" are common. These concerns are real, but they also risk becoming excuses that hold back the power of collective action. The truth is, we need to show up in numbers, even when it feels difficult. Our presence matters because there are forces trying to erase us. We represent people of color within the LGBT community, and protecting what we have built since 1999 is more urgent than ever.

Minnesota Pride parade street scene, showing vibrant flags and community spirit

The Reality of Feeling Unwelcome

For many Black LGBT individuals, mainstream Pride events in Minnesota have not always felt welcoming. In fact, there have been times when people of color were explicitly or implicitly excluded from the narrative. This exclusion creates a sense of isolation and discouragement. When events feel too expensive or not designed with Black voices in mind, it’s easy to feel like giving up.

But stepping back only allows those who want to erase our presence to succeed. The history of our community shows that visibility is a powerful tool. Since 1999, Black LGBT Minnesotans have fought hard to carve out spaces where their voices are heard and celebrated. These spaces are fragile and need our active participation to survive.

Why Showing Up Matters

Showing up in numbers is more than just a statement of presence. It is a way to:

• Build community strength

When more Black LGBT people attend events, it creates a stronger, more visible community that can demand respect and resources.

• Challenge exclusion

Visibility challenges the idea that Black voices are not central to the LGBT movement. It forces organizers and allies to be more inclusive.

• Protect hard-won gains

The spaces and rights we have today are the result of years of activism. Without active participation, these gains can be lost.

• Create new opportunities

More participation means more leadership, more programs, and more support tailored to the needs of Black LGBT individuals.

Facing the Backward Movement

The world is moving in ways that sometimes feel like steps backward. There are rising attacks on LGBT rights, increased racial tensions, and a growing sense of division. In this climate, it’s tempting to withdraw. But withdrawal only weakens our community.

Mainstream Pride events, once places of celebration, can sometimes feel like battlegrounds where people of color must fight for recognition. This is why it is crucial to show up even when it feels uncomfortable or costly. Our presence is a form of resistance.

Practical Ways to Show Up and Build Power

Showing up doesn’t always mean attending every event or spending a lot of money. Here are some practical ways to increase Black LGBT visibility and influence in Minnesota:

• Support Black-led LGBT organizations

Donate time or money to groups that center Black voices and experiences.

• Attend community meetings and planning sessions

Help shape events and policies to be more inclusive and affordable.

• Create and share your own events

Organize gatherings that reflect the culture and needs of Black LGBT people.

• Use social media to amplify voices

Share stories, events, and calls to action to reach wider audiences.

• Mentor younger community members

Passing on knowledge and support strengthens future generations.

Protecting What We Have Built Since 1999

The progress made since 1999 did not happen by accident. It was the result of persistent effort by Black LGBT Minnesotans who refused to be invisible. Protecting this legacy means:

• Staying engaged

Regular participation in events and advocacy keeps the community strong.

• Holding organizers accountable

Demand that Pride and other events remain inclusive and affordable.

• Building alliances

Work with other communities of color and LGBT groups to create a united front.

• Educating others

Share the history and contributions of Black LGBT people in Minnesota.

Moving Forward Together

The challenges are real, but so is our power. By showing up in numbers, Black LGBT Minnesotans can reclaim their rightful place in the community and ensure that their voices shape the future. This is not just about attending events; it’s about standing together to protect and grow what we have built.

Our presence is a statement: we are here, we matter, and we will not be erased.