The Swingle Family Foundation Inc. Blog

  Celebrating Nonbinary Joy This Week: International Nonbinary People's Day on July 14th July is a vibrant month for the LGBTQ+ community, and this week, we're putting a special spotlight on Nonbinary Awareness Week , which culminates in International Nonbinary People’s Day on July 14th ! This is a crucial time to elevate, affirm, and celebrate the diverse experiences of people whose gender identity doesn't fit neatly into the categories of "man" or "woman." Being nonbinary means identifying as a gender that exists outside of or between these traditional binary definitions. Just like the spectrum of colors in a rainbow, nonbinary identities are incredibly diverse – some people may identify as both man and woman, neither, somewhere in between, or as a different gender entirely. It's about how someone knows themselves to be, irrespective of the gender they were assigned at birth. International Nonbinary People’s Day on July 14th is a moment to recogn...

June 12th is a day etched in sorrow and remembrance – the anniversary of the Pulse nightclub tragedy. In 2016, 49 lives were tragically lost in a senseless act of violence that targeted the LGBTQ+ community, particularly the Latinx community. This day serves as a somber reminder of the ongoing threat of hate and violence that continues to plague our society. Pulse nightclub was more than just a place of entertainment; it was a sanctuary, a safe haven for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking community and acceptance. The attack on Pulse was an attack on the very essence of that sanctuary, a devastating blow to the heart of the LGBTQ+ community. On this day, we must: Honor the Memory of the Victims: We remember the names, the faces, and the stories of those who were taken from us too soon. We honor their lives and their legacies. Stand in Solidarity with the Survivors and Families: We offer our unwavering support to the survivors of the attack and to the families who lost loved ones. We stand w...

June 1st is a day that resonates with the warmth and strength of familial love – LGBTQ+ Families Day. It's a day to illuminate the beauty and resilience of families that defy traditional norms, reminding us that love, not rigid definitions, is the true essence of family. LGBTQ+ families represent a spectrum of experiences, from same-sex couples raising children to single parents by choice, to chosen families that provide unwavering support. These families often navigate unique challenges, including legal hurdles related to adoption and parental rights, as well as social stigma and discrimination. LGBTQ+ Families Day is a powerful affirmation of: The Boundless Nature of Love: The love between parents and children, between partners, and within chosen families transcends the limitations of sexual orientation or gender identity. It is a love that is pure, unconditional, and unwavering. The Richness of Diversity: Families come in countless forms, each with its own unique story and dy...

  June arrives, a month ablaze with rainbows, resounding with anthems of liberation, and steeped in the rich, complex history of LGBTQ+ Pride. It's a time that transcends mere celebration, becoming a powerful catalyst for reflection, education, and continued advocacy. Pride Month is not just a party; it's a defiant declaration of existence, a reclamation of space, and a testament to the enduring human spirit. The roots of Pride Month are firmly planted in the Stonewall Riots of June 1969. In the face of relentless police brutality and systemic oppression, members of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly trans women of color, bravely resisted, sparking a movement that would forever alter the course of history. Today, we honor that legacy by: Unveiling the Layers of Diversity: The LGBTQ+ community is a kaleidoscope of identities, experiences, and perspectives. From the vibrant transgender community to the diverse spectrum of sexual orientations, each individual contributes to t...

  Beyond Boundaries: Celebrating Pansexual and Panromantic Awareness and Visibility Day Today, May 24th, we celebrate Pansexual and Panromantic Awareness and Visibility Day! This day is dedicated to recognizing, honoring, and amplifying the voices of pansexual and panromantic individuals within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. It's a time to educate, celebrate, and promote understanding of these important identities. Pansexuality and panromanticism are often misunderstood or conflated with bisexuality, but they represent distinct and valid orientations. Pansexual individuals are attracted to people regardless of gender, while panromantic individuals experience romantic attraction regardless of gender. It's about recognizing the person, not the gender. Understanding the Definitions: Pansexuality: Attraction to people regardless of their gender identity. Gender is not a factor in their attraction. Panromanticism: Romantic attraction to people regardless of their gender identi...

  Remembering Harvey Milk: A Beacon of Hope and Equality Today, May 22nd, we celebrate Harvey Milk Day, honoring the life and legacy of a true pioneer in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Harvey Milk's courage, passion, and unwavering commitment to equality continue to inspire generations, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, change is possible. Harvey Milk wasn't just a politician; he was a symbol of hope for marginalized communities. He understood the power of representation and the importance of visibility. As the first openly gay elected official in California, serving on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, he broke down barriers and gave a voice to those who had long been silenced. More Than a Politician: Milk's impact extended far beyond his political career. He was a community leader, an advocate for social justice, and a champion for the underdog. He believed in the power of unity and the importance of building coalitions across different communities. His...