Care under the circumstances.

[MudFire_Dex]

Hey y'all. How is everyone holding up? I've had former studio members stop by just to say how they felt about being here and what it meant to them to be here and how they don't feel that way about their day job and life outside of being able to be at the studio or to be working in a place where they feel unsafe sharing their personal life details because it could make them unsafe. I gifted a camp this summer to a queer couple I know with a non-binary kid because I know our camps can be a safe haven.

I have had members cry openly in the space and staff too. On top of running a business how are y'all providing community care or sharing resources? I'm a little stymied right now because I'm for the first time afraid for myself as well. 

Just last year having conversations about representation, visibility, and customers having fear to enter or patronize businesses was valid and topical and now it seems outright dangerous not to have those discussions. 

[kristen]

Hi Deklan! I know I'm late to this, but it's really a shame how things can shift so quickly. I'm sincerely hoping everyone can find a safe space to be themselves and share their journey with someone. That's very cool that you gifted a camp experience to the family you know. It's so recharging to be around people like us and to build that sense of community. I wanted to say that I've actually had some real success using the NextDoor app (in the US). It can definitely be a place full of drama and narrow opinions, but I just block the uncool folks and stick to interacting with likeminded folks. I've been able to help people nearby and even if I can't help in every case, people will start getting used to seeing me and what I do. Some things I've done are offering free housing or clothing items to any queer neighbor that I would otherwise donate, I've reviewed resumes for people, and I've just DM'd with people who needed someone to talk to. I really wish there was more I could do. But even making the tiniest dent is so worth it, we really never fully see the ripple affect when we help someone. Hoping your spring is wrapping up nicely @MudFire_Dex and that you're staying safe. 💗