mission

Our mission is to foster a unified and inclusive community in Northeast Ohio (with a focus on Cuyahoga, Summit, Lake, and Geauga counties,) by amplifying diverse LGBTQIA2S+ voices, addressing disparities, and promoting collective advocacy and support for all members, especially those who are BIPOC, immigrant, transgender, disabled, youth and/or elders.

vision

We envision a thriving and cohesive coalition of community members, nonprofit organizations, and LGBTQIA2S+ owned businesses that contribute to the LGBTQIA2S+ community of Northeast Ohio. We strive to create safe(r) spaces that center and meet the needs of queer people where every individual, regardless of identity or background, feels represented, supported, and empowered to live authentically and advocate for positive change.

values

Advocacy & Awareness of impact

  • We build awareness of issues impacting the Northeast Ohio LGBTQIA2S+ Community, both inside NEOPAC and externally throughout the Northeast Ohio landscape. 

  • We share resources, knowledge, and successful strategies to enhance connections and optimize resource use among members.

  • We strengthen collective advocacy efforts, pushing back against anti-LGBTQ legislation with a unified voice.

Transparency and Access

  • We strive to be clear and transparent in our internal and external interactions so that others will know where we stand. 

  • We share information thoughtfully and proactively to increase accessibility and help mitigate barriers to participation for community members. 

Equity

  • We believe the worth of all individuals and communities we meet should be valued and protected. 

  • We acknowledge systemic biases and work to center the most marginalized in our community, including but not limited to BIPOC, disabled, immigrant, and transgender individuals.

  • We encourage all coalition members to commit to equity within their collective work, educating themselves on implicit bias and microaggressions.

Empowerment

  • We strive to help NEOPAC community members feel safe(r), free(r) and more in control of their own lives. 

Collaboration

  • We commit to collaborating with community members from diverse geographic and socio-economic backgrounds, broadening representation and fostering mutual learning.

  • We promote equitable power dynamics, encouraging collective goals and minimizing internal hierarchies.

Accountability and Healing

  • We work towards a positive and unified LGBTQIA2S+ community, by holding ourselves and each other accountable for our words, and our actions. 

  • We create positive spaces for community building and healing, focusing on healthy conflict resolution and sustaining relationships.



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