Virtual First Aid Kit

Welcome to the PrideVMC Virtual First Aid Kit

What is the purpose of the virtual first aid kit?

This evolving virtual first aid kit provides access to resources regarding the LGBTQ+ community and our needs. Wherever this first aid kit finds you, you are likely feeling mounting concern over the state of affairs in your daily life today and in the near future. However you feel right now, you are not alone. There are many of us trying to figure out how to navigate a changing landscape of intolerance and discrimination.

We created this resource kit to help all of us with our journey through this time. It isn’t perfect, and not all of these resources apply to everyone. Please complete this form if you have resources you would like to add. We cannot guarantee that all links will be added.

Why should I listen to PrideVMC? How do you know what I’m going through?

We do not know your experience. We can, however, say that we care about our members and are concerned for what is happening in your life. Conditions vary by state and country. Please know that people on our board and in our membership have endured significant changes in their lives and discrimination as a direct result of the current National LGBTQ+ crisis. This does not make us experts, but it does mean that we care because the crisis is happening to us too.

What do I do if I don’t feel safe?

First of all, know that you are not alone ever. Every state has equality organizations, pride centers, ACLU offices, Planned Parenthood sites (may possibly be in adjacent states), PFLAG, and other organizations. Reach out and find out what’s being done locally to help. Talk to your company, organization, or school. Look at the links provided in this Virtual First Aid Kit.

What do I do if I feel like I have to leave this country?

There are resources here for immigration for a few countries but not all. Consider contacting the embassy of the respective country you are interested in for more information. Bear in mind that work visas can be rescinded, therefore you should be looking into permanent resident visas if this is your plan. Always be straightforward in any conversation regarding visas, read forms thoroughly, and get assistance with documentation when needed. You may require some assistance with funds for this process as it is often slow and costly.

What do I do if I have to stay where I am?

Contact your local organizations and don’t be afraid to reach out to the queer community for advice and assistance.

I’m an ally, how can I help?

Ask your queer friends how they are doing and check back time and again. None of us is in a good place right now. We’re sleep deprived and worried. Some of us don’t know how to keep living our lives. You can help with compassion, time, personal assistance with resources and expenses, and with donations to broader causes. If you are worried about things happening in your organization, company or school, it is critical that you speak up. If you are worried about the mental health of people you care about, do what you can to help them find resources. Please understand that the loss of rights, healthcare, livelihood, and safety can cause mental health issues but these are NOT mental health issues themselves. While mental health and wellbeing resources are important, what is currently most needed is help dealing with, and ideally eliminating, systemic causes of the current crisis.

First Aid Kit FAQs

AAVSB Licensure Assistance

Abortion resources

Access to aids care

Aeromexico

Advice for LGBTQIA+ travelers

Air Canada

Alaska Airlines

Amtrak

Article on Rainbow Railroad partnering with Canada govt

BC Ferry

Black Ball Ferry Line