Our LGBTQ+ Town Halls serve as vital forums for open dialogue, community engagement, and collective action within the Pittsburgh LGBTQIA+ community and its allies. These gatherings provide a direct opportunity to connect with community leaders, local officials, and experts on issues that matter most to us.
We believe that fostering direct communication and creating accessible spaces for discussion are crucial for addressing challenges, celebrating successes, and shaping a more inclusive future for everyone.
Purpose of Our Town Halls
Our Town Halls are designed to:
- Facilitate Dialogue: Create a safe and inclusive environment for community members to share their perspectives, concerns, and ideas on pressing LGBTQIA+ issues.
- Inform & Educate: Provide updates on local, state, and national policies, initiatives, and events impacting the LGBTQIA+ community.
- Encourage Advocacy: Empower attendees to become active participants in advocacy efforts, from legislative changes to community-led initiatives.
- Build Community: Strengthen connections among individuals and organizations dedicated to LGBTQIA+ equality and well-being.
- Address Specific Issues: Focus on timely topics such as housing, healthcare, employment, discrimination, youth support, and more, based on community needs.
What to Expect
Each Town Hall typically includes:
- Keynote Speakers/Panelists: Featuring community leaders, elected officials, legal experts, healthcare professionals, and advocates.
- Community Updates: Briefings on recent developments, campaigns, or urgent issues relevant to the LGBTQIA+ community in Pittsburgh.
- Open Forum/Q&A: A dedicated time for attendees to ask questions, share their experiences, and offer input.
- Resource Sharing: Information on local services, support groups, and opportunities for engagement.
- Action Steps: Clear pathways for attendees to get involved, volunteer, or support ongoing initiatives.
Participating in a Town Hall
We encourage all members of the LGBTQIA+ community, allies, and interested community members to attend our Town Halls. Your voice is important, and your participation helps shape our collective efforts.
- Upcoming Town Halls: Please check our Events Calendar for dates, times, topics, and registration details for upcoming Town Halls.
- Submit Questions: Opportunities to submit questions in advance may be available for specific events.
- Sign Up for Updates: Join our mailing list to receive notifications about upcoming Town Halls and other important community news.
We are committed to making our Town Halls accessible. Please contact us if you require any accommodations to participate.
Featured Town Hall Events
Here are examples of some of the impactful Town Hall events we’ve hosted:
- LGBTQ+ Town Hall with Pennsylvania State Representatives Benham, Mayes and Salisbury
- LGBTQ+ Town Hall with UPMC’s Infectious Disease Expert, Dr. Ken Ho
- LGBTQ+ Town Hall with Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirotto