Summary of Specifications:
LGBTIQ individuals generally face greater prejudice and discrimination than do their heterosexual and cisgender peers. These experiences, which sometimes lead to increased health and mental health risks, are problematic in and of themselves. Moreover, the results of actual stigmatizing experiences have been exacerbated by negative narratives about LGBTIQ lives. A negative narrative defines important dimensions of who LGBTIQ persons and others think they will be or should be. These narratives can become self-fulfilling prophecies, increasing further the occurrence of greater health and mental health risk in the LGBTIQ population, as compared to the straight or cisgender population. The negative narrative conveys the impression that being LGBTIQ is the problem, when in fact the problem is rooted in the stigma and oppression affecting LGBTQ individuals.
We do good work with and on behalf of LGBTIQ persons. In order to do great work, we need to realistically address stigma-related problems while simultaneously working to change any form of “victim mentality.” Boulder County Allies for Inclusion (BCAFI) is a coalition of persons and organizations whose individual and collective efforts contribute to the vision of a community that values and celebrates each person’s unique identity. Our vision: Boulder County is a diverse and inclusive community that is transformed by valuing and celebrating the unique history and expression of each person’s full identity (including the full spectrum of gender and sexual expression).
