ECONOMIC WELLNESS
Economic wellness is a core pillar of Black LGBTQ+ liberation. But for too many in our communities, stable employment, fair wages, and career growth remain out of reach—not because of a lack of skill or ambition but because of entrenched systems of racism, transphobia, and economic exclusion.
Our approach to economic wellness doesn’t stop at job placement. It’s about shifting power—investing in Black LGBTQ+ leadership, holding institutions accountable, and building systems that reflect our worth, brilliance, and contributions.
We center economic wellness across our programs through:
Workforce development that builds professional skills and leadership capacity
Skill-building that prepares community members for long-term success
Entrepreneurial support that allows us to create our own opportunities and build collective wealth
Black Queer Equity Index (BQEI)
The Black Queer Equity Index is a national, community-led tool that evaluates nonprofit workplaces on their support for Black LGBTQ+ staff and board members. Born out of the need for accountability in the LGBTQ+ nonprofit sector, BQEI issues public report cards, leads anti-racist interventions, and advances systemic change in nonprofits' operations.
BQEI isn’t just about metrics—it’s about justice. When Black LGBTQ+ employees are respected, developed, and resourced, organizations become more effective, equitable, and aligned with the communities they claim to serve.
Workforce Development
Our Workforce Development initiatives, including the annual Workforce Development Conference (WDC), respond directly to what our community has asked for: culturally relevant, practical training and connection. The WDC provides job seekers and nonprofit professionals with tools for career mobility, including résumé support, leadership workshops, networking, and direct access to affirming employers.
We create space for career growth, relationship-building, self-advocacy, and power-building across institutions.
Learn more about Workforce Development
Economic Support Across Our Ecosystem
Economic wellness is woven throughout our work. Events within the Black LGBTQ+ Caucus (BQC) [linked to BQC page] often include on-site job resources, professional networking opportunities, and skills-based workshops. Whether a community gathering or a convening, we ensure our people can access the tools and information that build long-term stability.
We know that economic freedom is essential to healing and thriving. That’s why we continue to push for change not just at the individual level but across systems—so that Black LGBTQ+ people aren’t just included in economic spaces but are leading them.
Ready to grow, connect, or partner? Get in touch or check out upcoming events