Queer Joy and Queer Resilience

Connecticut’s LGBTQ+ Justice & Opportunity Network in Focus

By William B. Ollayos

In a vibrant room adorned with rainbow flags, conversation filled the air as young people gathered for Southington Activity Nights, a youth-led space where queer youth could finally breathe easy and be themselves. Across the state, at Anchor Health, artists and writers celebrated their identity in the pages of a Pride Zine, a publication made possible by the LGBTQ+ Justice and Opportunity Network. These moments of queer joy are not just fleeting—they represent the transformative work of the LGBTQ+ Justice & Opportunity Network, a beacon of hope and resilience in Connecticut.

A Network Born of Advocacy  and Vision

Connecticut’s LGBTQ+ Justice and Opportunity Network is a landmark organization in our state. Established by legislation in 2017 and co-sponsored by Rep. Jeff Currey and Rep. Raghib Allie-Brennan, it marked a historic first: a legislatively funded network dedicated to the health and human services needs of LGBTQ+ residents. This bold initiative allocated $250,000 annually to support data-driven programs and services, symbolizing the state’s commitment to a more inclusive future.

The Network’s first major accomplishment was commissioning Connecticut’s inaugural statewide LGBTQ+ needs assessment in collaboration with the Consultation Center at Yale. Despite pandemic challenges, nearly 3,000 residents participated, sharing critical insights into their experiences with discrimination, mental health, and housing insecurity. These findings laid the groundwork for the Network’s initiatives and underscored the urgent need for tailored support systems.

Funding Joy and Empowering Communities

Over the past fiscal year, the Network approved approximately $300,000 in grant funding, empowering grassroots organizations and fostering resilience. Among the initiatives funded:

• Southington Activity Nights by QPlus CT: A youth-led space for queer kids and teens to connect and thrive.
• Divinely You by Nadine Ruff: A resource center offering trans and gender-diverse individuals—predominantly Black and Brown trans women—support in transitioning, including assistance with name changes, housing, and therapeutic counseling.
• CREC Pride Prom: An affirming event for LGBTQIA+ high school students and allies to celebrate their identities.
• Anchor Health’s Pride Zine: A publication showcasing queer culture, art, and community.

Each project reflects the Network’s mission to uplift marginalized voices, foster community, and create spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals can experience joy without fear.

Leadership Rooted in Community

At the helm of the Network are leaders deeply embedded in Connecticut’s LGBTQ+ advocacy landscape. Co-Chair David Grant (Executive Director of the Health Collective), Treasurer John Merz (CEO of Advancing Connecticut Together), and Secretary Robin McHaelen (Founder of True Colors SOGIEcon, a relaunch of the True Colors annual conference), bring decades of experience and passion to their roles. Together, they guide the Network toward its ambitious goals, ensuring that every dollar spent supports programs that resonate with the community’s needs.

Resilience in Challenging Times

The Network’s work takes on heightened significance in today’s political climate. With the second Trump administration’s looming, many fear a rollback of hard-won rights for LGBTQ+ individuals. Yet, Connecticut remains steadfast in its commitment to equity and justice. As Co-Chair David Grant explains, “Resilience isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving. The Network isn’t here to maintain the status quo; it’s here to push for a better future.”

Events like Pride Day at the Capitol exemplify this resilience. In June 2024, the Network collaborated with the Connecticut Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity & Opportunity (CWCSEO) to host a celebration of queer joy. The event featured drag performances by Kiki Lucia, BLEACH!, and Natalia Fierce and a panel of community leaders sharing stories of strength and solidarity. As Representative Sarah Keitt reminded attendees, the Capitol is “your house”—a place where queer individuals should feel at home.

A Call to Action

The Network’s vision extends far beyond its current achievements. With plans to expand membership, increase grant funding, and deepen its outreach to marginalized communities, the Network is poised to lead Connecticut into a new era of LGBTQ+ advocacy. But its success depends on collective action. Residents can contribute by volunteering, donating, or simply attending Network-sponsored events to show their support.

In a world often hostile to queer identities, the Network stands as a testament to the power of joy and resilience. By funding programs that celebrate diversity, amplify marginalized voices, and foster connection, it ensures that queer individuals across Connecticut can not only survive but thrive. As drag performer Kiki Lucia said during Pride Day at the Capitol, “The only people we can truly rely on are our queer siblings.” Through the Network’s work, those connections grow stronger every day, building a future where joy is not just possible but abundant.

Queer joy and resilience are more than ideals—they are the lifeblood of Connecticut’s LGBTQ+ Justice and Opportunity Network. In the face of political uncertainty, the Network represents hope, action, and a commitment to building a state where everyone can live with dignity and pride.

For more information about the Network, please visit the following website: https://wp.cga.ct.gov/cwcseo/sub_commission/lgbtq-justice-opportunity-network/. Please email william.ollayos@cga.ct.gov with any questions.