Case for Support
Rhode Island draws its spirit, vitality and character from the increasingly diverse mix of people who live, work, and raise families within its neighborhoods. The strength of our community rests firmly on our collective willingness to value and embrace the richness of our entire citizenry.

Yet for members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community, a disproportionate amount of emotional distress, discrimination, injustice, and violence is experienced. Young people are thrown out of their home or harassed at school; couples can't make decisions for each other when one of them becomes critically-ill; individuals lose their jobs, are shunned by neighbors, or worse, physically attacked simply because of who they are.

Equity Action was created to address the needs and struggles of LGBTQ citizens in a way that strengthens our community and protects all Rhode Islanders. There has never been a better time or place - or more urgency - than right here and now to create equality for every member of our state.

The Equity Action Campaign Committee was created to significantly increase this endowment supporting equity for LGBTQ individuals throughout Rhode Island. For these committee members, Equity Action is at the forefront of an important civil rights issue, and their participation demonstrates leadership and dedication to safe and healthy communities for all Rhode Islanders.

Taking up The Rhode Island Foundation's "Million Dollar Challenge," the Campaign Committee, along with a host of volunteers and donors, will raise $500,000 by March 2011. With a dollar for dollar match committed by the Foundation, this fund will grow to well over a million dollars, and generate grant funding for the LGBTQ community in perpetuity.

It is through your gift that the dream of Equity Action will come alive. By donating you have the remarkable opportunity to create a lasting legacy of tolerance and justice. Learn more about giving to Equity Action.