The Latest

by Wes Sanders

Duncan Teague Honored by Georgia House of Representatives for his Tireless Advocacy

In the mid-1980s Duncan Teague and other Atlanta black LGBT folks called a meeting in his living room to respond to the HIV epidemic and to increase the Atlanta organizing in the black LGBT communities. At the time the effect of HIV on the black community did not receive the needed public attention. In our communities, in our night clubs, and in our organizations, we knew and cared for the people being impacted. Teague understood intimately how this was changing black LGBT life, and he stepped up as a leader. That meeting contributed to the birthing of the African American Gay and Lesbian Alliance (AALGA). This meeting also helped set the stage for a lifetime of service and advocacy for our communities. Continue reading →

by Wes Sanders

My Advocacy Experience as GE’s HIV Policy Fellow

by Torrian Baskerville

“Hey Torrian. I spoke with Devin and he suggested you speak at the
Georgia Legislative Black Caucus Community Hearing that is being organized… I think it’s a great idea. Are you interested?”, intently asked Emily Brown, my fellowship supervisor. In that moment, I was uncertain, afraid, yet intrigued by the opportunity I shook my head and replied, “yes, I think I can do it.” This was huge for me. This would be the first time I had every had an opportunity to speak to legislators about issues that are important to me and my community. The other reason, and most frightening one, was something not even my family knew.  Continue reading →