Lesbian Visibility Day: Honoring the Advocates Who Fight for Our Rights

At Be/Here, we know that visibility is powerful, but what we do with that visibility can change lives. This Lesbian Visibility Day, we’re celebrating the women who are not just seen but who show up to make the world more just, equitable, and free.

Celebrating Lesbians in Activism

For generations, lesbians have led the way in activism. From street protests to policy changes, these advocates have profoundly influenced nearly every movement for LGBTQ+ liberation. Their work, although sometimes overlooked, has always been essential.

Inspiring Figures in the Movement

This week, we want to spotlight a few incredible lesbians who are campaigning for equal rights and leading the charge for a more liberated future:

Urvashi Vaid (1968–2022)

A trailblazing activist, lawyer, and writer, Urvashi dedicated her life to LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and feminist liberation. Her vision was always expansive—equity for all, not just visibility for a few.

Karen Ocamb

As a journalist and advocate, Karen has amplified queer voices through decades of reporting, particularly during the AIDS crisis and the marriage equality movement.

Carmen Vázquez (1949–2021)

Carmen was a fierce Puerto Rican lesbian organizer who believed deeply in grassroots power, intersectionality, and building safe, joyful communities.

Krysten Sinema

The first openly bisexual person elected to the U.S. Senate, Krysten represents a shift in political visibility for queer folks. However, visibility always invites deeper conversations about values, impact, and accountability.

Mandy Carter

With over 50 years of organizing experience, Mandy co-founded Southerners On New Ground and continues to advocate for racial, gender, and economic justice.

Phyll Opoku-Gyimah (Lady Phyll)

As the founder of UK Black Pride, Lady Phyll is changing the face of LGBTQ+ advocacy by centering Black queer joy, justice, and community care.

Jasmyne Cannick

A sharp political strategist and media force, Jasmyne’s advocacy focuses on systemic accountability and the protection of Black LGBTQ+ lives.

These women are builders, healers, and fighters. Their advocacy reminds us that real equality isn’t just about being seen—it’s about being safe, supported, and empowered.

The Importance of Collective Care

At Be/Here, we believe that collective care is a form of resistance. When we gather to learn, to rest, and to heal together, we’re continuing the legacy of those who came before us. Discussions around visibility often lead to the vital question: What does it mean to create safe spaces for all?

Workshops for Healing

Join us this month for our free mental health skills workshops, designed especially for LGBTQ+ folks. Whether you’re navigating burnout, building boundaries, or seeking community support, these sessions are gentle, grounding spaces. You can show up exactly as you are.

🌱 Upcoming Workshops:

• Emotional Regulation

• Fostering Joy (Family Event)

  
  

🌱 Upcoming Online Sessions:

• Meet the team and talk a bit about emotional regulation

  
  

Everyone deserves support. No one has to do this healing work alone. Visibility is powerful, but is it healing in a community? That’s where the magic happens.

👉 Sign up here or share with someone who might need it.

Why Visibility Matters

Visibility is not merely about being seen; it's a reminder of our collective journey. Every act of bravery, every moment of truth shared, contributes to a broader narrative. It highlights the shared struggles and victories within the LGBTQ+ community.

Through visibility, we foster acceptance and understanding. Our stories can encourage others to come forward, share their experiences, and find solace in unity. Every voice matters, and every story counts.

Creating Lasting Change

Advocacy takes many forms. It can be loud, like street protests, or quiet, like one-on-one conversations. Both are critical. Lesbians and queer folks have been at the forefront of many social justice movements, proving that change is possible through resilience and unity.

As we celebrate Lesbian Visibility Day, let's remember to amplify these voices. They are shaping policy, fostering community, and laying the groundwork for future generations. It's essential to recognize that the journey towards liberation is ongoing. Although we celebrate our visibility today, our work continues every day.

Remember, you are not alone. You are worthy of care. And we’re so glad you’re here. Together, we can build a future where everyone is safe, supported, and empowered. Let's honor the legacy of those who fought for our rights and continue their work in our own communities.