Empowering LGBTQIA+ Community: Tackling Social Isolation

People face social isolation from their immediate communities for various reasons. Including but not limited to sexual orientation, gender expression, and as of recently, a global pandemic.

According to a global study by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, out of 20,398 respondents, 4,284 faced severe loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 2,000 people admitted that their social isolation increased during the pandemic. Situations of social isolation can be a major burden for LGBTQIA+ people. Severe isolation can lead to depression, self-harm, and risky sexual behaviors.

Founders of BLACK, GAY, stuck at home, Joshua Jenkins, and Michael Ward display how the digital community can help with social isolation. Formed in April 2020, BGSAH is a bi-weekly virtual community meetup highlighting independent and mainstream films and series.