Behind the movements, these four key organizations handle the policy work, funding, and legal advocacy for Black queer women.
National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC)
Founded in December 2003 and based in Washington, D.C., the NBJC is a civil rights organization focused on the intersection of racial justice and LGBTQ+ equality. The organization advocates on federal policy, public education, and health equity, with an explicit focus on individuals living with HIV/AIDS. For over two decades, the NBJC has worked to integrate LGBTQ+ equality into civil rights agendas and racial justice into broader LGBTQ+ policy.
The Zuna Institute
Established in 1999, the Zuna Institute is a national advocacy organization dedicated to the health, economic development, education, and public policy needs of Black lesbians. The organization produced the National Black Lesbian Needs Assessment, a foundational survey documenting the specific socioeconomic and political priorities of Black lesbians. Its programming focuses on community organizing, leadership training, and reducing barriers related to race and sexual orientation.
Backstage Capital
Founded by Arlan Hamilton in 2015, Backstage Capital is a venture capital firm targeting underestimated founders, specifically women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. PitchBook data indicates the firm has backed over 200 companies. In late 2024, the firm partnered with 360 Venture Collective to scale its investment operations, focusing capital deployment directly toward underrepresented business leaders.
National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC)
Founded in 2002, the NGLCC serves as the primary advocacy organization for LGBTQ+-owned businesses and acts as the certifying body for Certified Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and/or Transgender Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs). Through supplier diversity programs, corporate partnerships, and capital resources, the chamber helps LGBTQ+ business owners, including Black queer women, secure corporate and government contracts.
Sources
- https://nbjc.org/
- https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/nbjc,940448338/
- https://zunainstitute.org/
- https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/zuna-institute,943378067/
- https://techcrunch.com/2024/12/14/arlan-hamilton-announces-changes-at-backstage-capital-will-step-into-advisory-role/
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_LGBTQ_rights_organizations_in_the_United_States
