Post submitted by HRC Alabama Field Organizer Richard Cabán Cubero

As the HRC Alabama Field Organizer, I am lucky to work with and organize with LGBTQ people and allies across the state of Alabama. Earlier this month, however, I was able to get out of the Yellowhammer State and attend the Philly Trans Health Conference in Philadelphia.

I was able to attend workshops such as  “Trans Women to the Front!” and “Country Queerdom.” I learned about mindfully engaging rural and conservative communities in LGBTQ work. I was frequently reminded of the importance of working locally, leading from local communities and offering support through difficult legislative times.

According to its website, “The mission of the Philadelphia Trans Health Conference (PTHC) is to educate and empower trans individuals on issues of health and well-being; educate and inform allies and health service providers; and facilitate networking, community-building, and systemic change.  We strive to create an accessible and respectful environment that is inclusive of diverse gender-identities and expressions as well as inclusive of diverse opinions and ideas.”

These and many other workshops were helpful in identifying ways my work can be more intentionally inclusive. How are we working to make positions of influence more inclusive to our trans community? What do meaningful relationship look like with leaders in local communities?

As I continue to serve the Alabama community, these questions will guide how I take care to improve our inclusion on the ground. If you would like to be involved socially or politically with HRC Alabama, please click here.