Support Team Raynbow Soul Sistars

We are Cherise, Chadra, Jennifer, and Sonya, board members of ZAMI NOBLA, a service advocacy and community-based research organization for black lesbians over 50.  

Older black lesbians are marginalized by age, race, gender, disability, class, and sexual orientation.  ZAMI NOBLA sits at the fence line of oppression with advocacy and research. In addition, we provide opportunities for networking and social support, and address the healthcare needs and coping strategies of ageing black lesbians.  Monies raised during Pride Month help us extend our reach all over the country.  When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, we were able to use the funds we raised to respond rapidly by hiring instructors to provide new virtual programs designed for the health and well-being of women aged 50 and over, like our Slow Your Roll weekly yoga program.  In addition, we were able to continue our Cancer Support Group and work on the Biggers House, where we provide affordable housing to black lesbians 55+ living on fixed incomes.   

We are doing this as part of Give OUT Day, a month-long fundraising campaign culminating on June 28th, the only national day of giving for the LGBTQ community. Give OUT Day is June 28, and donations during all of Pride Month count toward our goal. ZAMI NOBLA could earn thousands in additional prize money if we get the most donors. The competition is stiff!  

Would you consider donating to help with this meaningful and necessary work? Your support would mean so much.  

Member testimony:

"I am very aware that when someone refers to the LGBTQIA+ community rarely does the needs of a mature black lesbian fit the paradigm. As I’ve gotten older, I’m starting to encounter things like being a caretaker to my parents. It is nice to have a supportive group of women who look like me and who have similar experiences and backgrounds, as well as, access to resources to help me navigate this new space. I am an active person yet many activities the gay community offers are no longer attractive to me. With ZAMI NOBLA I can still be involved in my community and do meaningful service and advocacy work, at the same time."

Member Testimony:

"When I learned of ZAMI NOBLA, I instantly knew I had to become a part of this organization. One that is dedicated to the well-being of not only black lesbians, but those of us who have more years behind us as opposed to in front of us. When I think of how as we get older, and how our needs are generally over-looked by society, ZAMI NOBLA gives me hope. The support and resources available through this organization are valuable, not only to the black lesbian but, also to anyone who is concerned about her well-being.” 

Give Love. Give hope. Give OUT. #GiveOUTDay