WorldPride Washington, D.C. Human Rights Conference 2025

As Black LGBTQ+ people represent the global majority, their voices, experiences, and leadership are essential to advancing human rights worldwide. This dynamic panel will bring together organizers of Black Prides from across the globe—activists, policymakers, and cultural leaders—who are on the front lines of this movement. They will examine the current landscape of Black LGBTQ+ rights, highlighting regions where systemic oppression persists and sharing strategies for driving policy reform through grassroots organizing and international advocacy. The discussion will explore the intersectionality of race, gender identity, and sexual orientation, shedding light on how these overlapping identities shape access to rights, resources, and representation. Panelists will also emphasize the power of visibility, addressing how authentic storytelling and accurate representation in media, politics, and social movements can challenge stereotypes and reshape cultural narratives. Health equity will be a key focus, with conversations on combating disparities in HIV prevention, mental health, and access to culturally competent care. Finally, the panel will explore coalition building and solidarity, offering strategies to strengthen alliances with other marginalized groups, amplifying the broader human rights movement. With a compelling call to action, attendees will be inspired to support Black LGBTQ+ organizations, advocate for policy reforms, and champion a more just and equitable global society.

LGBTQIA2S+ individuals navigating migration often face profound challenges, including displacement, identity conflict, systemic inequities, and the universal quest for belonging. While these experiences are deeply personal, they reflect broader desires for acceptance, visibility, and empowerment shared across the LGBTQIA2S+ community. This session will explore the unique stressors faced by LGBTQIA2S+ migrants while highlighting how their resilience offers valuable lessons for building a more inclusive and united movement.

Through storytelling, data-driven insights, and interactive discussions, participants will examine the intersections of migration trauma, identity conflict, and the fight for LGBTQIA2S+ visibility. Real-world examples will showcase how migration narratives have challenged oppressive systems, fostered empathy, and built coalitions across diverse communities. By examining these stories, attendees will uncover universal strategies for expanding the LGBTQIA2S+ movement’s “tent,” embracing intersectional experiences, and harnessing resilience for collective betterment.

Attendees will gain tools to amplify marginalized voices, create intentional spaces for visibility, and expand networks that foster collaboration across borders and identities. By focusing on bridge-building and actionable strategies, this session aims to inspire participants to embrace the lessons of migrant resilience and use them to strengthen the LGBTQIA2S+ community as a whole.