Response to Executive Orders

January 25, 2025

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The recent executive orders are deeply concerning and discriminatory against LGBTQ+ individuals whose identities and experiences are essential to our understanding of health and well-being. We are horrified and disgusted by what this means for the very likely normalization of divisive rhetoric and policies that empower homophobia, transphobia, racism and discrimination. We know that many of you fear that the executive orders will further entrench systemic racism and inequality and lead to policies that prioritize exclusion over inclusion, undermining efforts to promote diversity and social justice… fostering an environment where hate and intolerance are more readily accepted. We are furious that the executive orders could significantly limit the scope of research that addresses gender identity and related health disparities, such as HIV/AIDS—with respect to prevention and treatment—which are critical areas in need of attention and continued funding. We believe that science should always be inclusive and reflective of the diverse experiences within our society. The recent executive orders run counter to those values and could have lasting negative impacts not only on the field of HIV prevention and treatment research, but also on the health of many Americans that identify as LGBTQ+.  For years, the LGBTQ+ community has confronted hateful and discriminatory policy decisions and witnessed a troubling trend that leaves many of us feeling vulnerable and marginalized. Yet, for more than a half century, our community has shown remarkable courage and strength. We have stood up against adversity, mobilizing to protect our rights and advocating for equality, equity and social justice. Together, we have made great progress, and we will continue to do so when confronted with new challenges. At the UCLA Center for LGBTQ+ Advocacy, Research & Health, we want to affirm our commitment to advocating for the health and well-being of our community; we remain dedicated to conducting impactful research, promoting inclusive policies, and advocating for outcomes that prioritize the health and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. In these extremely challenging times, we encourage everyone to stay engaged, informed, and to support each other. We stand with you and are here to support you in every way possible.

Election Results

November 9, 2024

Dear LGBTQ+ Community,

As we reflect on the recent election results, we recognize that many in the LGBTQ+ community may be feeling a mix of uncertainty, disappointment, and concern for the future. The results of this election will bring significant change—likely to be particularly trying—with continued efforts to undermine LGBTQ+ healthcare access, as well as our human rights and freedoms. In this moment, we believe it’s important to acknowledge the challenges that our community will face. For years, the LGBTQ+ community has confronted hateful and discriminatory policy decisions and witnessed a troubling trend that leaves many of us feeling vulnerable and marginalized. Yet, for more than a half century, our community has shown remarkable courage and strength. We have stood up against adversity, mobilizing to protect our rights and advocating for equality, equity and social justice. Together, we have made great progress, and we will continue to do so when confronted with new challenges. At the UCLA Center for LGBTQ+ Advocacy, Research & Health, we want to affirm our commitment to advocating for the health and well-being of our community. We understand the deep concerns and emotions that you are feeling. Now more than ever, it is important to come together, to support one another, and to remember our resilience as a community. At C-LARAH, we remain dedicated to conducting impactful research, promoting inclusive policies, and advocating for outcomes that prioritize the health and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. In these challenging times, we encourage everyone to stay engaged, informed, and to support each other.

Statement on International Day to End Violence  Against Sex Workers (Video)

December 17, 2023

 

Observed annually on December 17th, International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers uplifts global efforts to address discrimination and social stigma, organize for human rights, support the livelihood of sex workers, and remember victims of sexual violence and assault.

First organized in 2003 by the sex worker-led organization the Sex Workers Outreach Project-USA as a day of remembrance, International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers continues to be a day for sex workers, allies, and advocates to come together –as they always have– and raise awareness around the connection between the criminalization of sex work and lack of culturally relevant resources with high levels of experienced violence and other human rights violations.

As stated by the Sex Workers Project of the Urban Justice Center, global research shows that there is a 45 to 75% chance of sex workers experiencing sexual violence while working. These rates of violence are even higher among sex workers of color, migrant sex workers, and transgender sex workers.

Our own research conducted through FRESH Research at Brown University School of Public Health and UCLA’s Center for LGBTQ+ Advocacy, Research, and Health has been centered on better understanding the social and economic factors that lead to limited opportunities for sex workers to access healthcare services. That said, we know there is always more that we can do.

That is why we are joining those calls for community-based advocacy, improved access to resources, and additional means to end the violence against sex workers. For all of us have the right to live without fear of violence, discrimination, and stigma as we seek to collectively advance racial, gender, LGBTQ+, bodily autonomy, and economic justice for all.

If you would like to get involved, we encourage you to support sex worker-led organizations. You can donate funds or basic needs, volunteer your time, and take it upon yourself to seek out more education about sex worker rights and the policies that affect them.