BRATTLEBORO — Out in the Open (OITO) says it has reopened its Rural QTBIPOC/LGBTQ+ Mutual Aid Fund.
In 2020, the fund distributed over $22,250 to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other non-heterosexual folks, prioritizing applicants who are queer, transgender, Black, Indigenous, or people of color living in rural northern New England, where funds of this type are critically needed.
“Additional priority is given to those who live at the intersections of systematically oppressed experiences and identities,” according to a news release from the regional nonprofit that “connects rural LGBTQ people to build community, visibility, knowledge and power,” as it describes in its mission.
“Mutual aid is a powerful way to be in solidarity with everyone in your community,” said Executive Director HB Lozito. “There is space for all of us within mutual aid. Many folks both request support and give resources at the same time, which is really beautiful, true to real life, and necessary for being in this together.”
In Vermont, BIPOC folks comprise about 6 percent of the overall population yet currently make up 18 percent of COVID-19 cases, according to the Vermont Department of Health. That is why OITO leaders say the group has prioritized QTBIPOC folks in receiving support.
According to the fund's organizers, “we know rural LGBTQ+ folks in our community who are Black, brown and people of color are being more deeply affected by this virus on top of the other daily oppressions they were living with from pre-pandemic times, due to a centuries-long arc of systemic racism.”
“We need to be together in this fight against fascism, racism, and wealth hoarding that contributed to this situation in the first place,” they continue.
To learn more about the fund, apply for funds, or contribute, visit weareoutintheopen.org/mutual-aid-fund.