Despite the progress for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer individuals over the past few decades, violence and discrimination still exists toward many in that community.
Mark Anthony Lord, a Chicago author, speaker and teacher at the Bodhi Spiritual Center, has launched a Kickstarter campaign to create an online platform for the LGBTQ community and its allies to connect, share ideas, and establish a greater sense of well-being in their lives.
Called Pride 2.0, the website will offer virtual conferences, online classes, and webinars to bring resources for LGBTQ people. The site will offer one-on-one coaching as well as small group experiences to give people struggling with their sexuality a greater sense of community. The online platform will comfort those feeling isolated or suffering from self-esteem issues, according to the campaign.
"PRIDE 2.0 is a global, virtual community - but it's so much more than a website," the Kickstarter says. "It's a HUB that brings together some of the greatest LGBTQ, and those-who-love-us teachers, healers, coaches, artists, and s/heroes who are moving us forward with their dedication to total freedom, self-love and acceptance. "
The Kickstarter launched on Monday and will conclude Aug. 27. It looks to raise $40,000 to build the site and offer classes and conferences.
"We believe the next evolution of PRIDE comes from within," the campaign says. "As the world continues to progress in this civil rights movement, PRIDE 2.0 is here to assist LGBTQ people in establishing greater well-being in every area of life – mental, emotional, physical, sexual, relational, and spiritual. A community that knows its power, freedom and wholeness from within can never be taken down by fear, hatred, and intolerance again."
