Why Lesbian Visibility Week Matters
by Sage Nestler, MSW
This week is Lesbian Visibility Week, a week where we celebrate LGBTQIA+ women and non-binary folx within the lesbian community!
This year’s theme is Health & Wellbeing, which is essential due to the increased mental health and healthcare challenges that queer folx are facing.
For too long, lesbians have been misrepresented or inappropriately represented in the media and denied compassionate and affirming mental and physical health care.
As well as not receiving the visibility they deserve.
Through a study that surveyed LGBTQIA+ women and non-binary folx across the UK, US, India, South Africa, and Germany, findings showed:
Only 1 in 4 lesbian and non-binary folx feel safe in public spaces
62% feel safe at home, but that percentage drops when it comes to public spaces
Half said that they have had experiences in healthcare settings being dismissed or not taken seriously
The study also found that more than 1 out of 3 folx delay healthcare out of fear of discrimination, misunderstanding, or safety issues.
When folx avoid seeking healthcare or mental health services out of fear for their safety, this creates a detrimental gap in care.
Here at Releasing the Phoenix, we are fully affirming of all identities and sexualities, respect and validate your existence, while helping you find referrals and resources that we have verified as safe.
You not only deserve visibility, but the same care and compassion anyone else receives - especially when it comes to your health and wellbeing.
While we celebrate this week, we celebrate you every single day.
We want to provide you space to:
Share your story
Give a message of hope to others in the lesbian community
Provide insight into barriers or obstacles you are experiencing in health and wellbeing
Anything else you’d like to share!
We will be sharing stories and messages year-round for LGBTQIA+ women and non-binary folx, and we may ask permission to share your story or message - which can be done anonymously.
Your voice matters, and it can save lives. We are here to help you amplify it!
