Stonewall Inn: A Beacon of Hope and Support

Stonewall Inn is a dedicated drop-in space in downtown Pittsburgh, committed to providing gender-affirming care and support for transgender individuals experiencing homelessness or discrimination. Scheduled to open in January 2025, Stonewall Inn serves as a safe haven where all transgender individuals can find the resources and community they need to thrive.

Our Mission

At Stonewall Inn, our mission is to create a welcoming and affirming environment that offers essential services, advocacy, and support. We aim to address the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly those who are marginalized and underserved. Through comprehensive care, outreach programs, and community-building activities, we strive to empower our clients and foster a more inclusive society.

Our Services

  • Gender-Affirming Care: Access to medical, mental health, and wellness services tailored to the needs of transgender individuals.

  • Support Services: Assistance with housing, employment, legal aid, and other critical resources.

  • Community Programs: Educational workshops, support groups, and social events to build community and resilience.

  • Outreach: Street outreach initiatives to connect with individuals who may not yet have access to our services.

The Importance of Stonewall Inn in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s transgender community has long faced significant barriers to accessing affirming care and support. The establishment of Stonewall Inn in downtown Pittsburgh represents a monumental step toward addressing these disparities. By situating our services in the heart of the city, we are making a powerful statement about the visibility and importance of transgender lives. Stonewall Inn provides a critical resource hub, fostering a sense of belonging and safety for transgender individuals who often feel marginalized and isolated.

History of Sisters PGH

Founded in 2013, Sisters PGH is a Black and trans-led nonprofit organization that has been at the forefront of advocacy, support, and empowerment for transgender and nonbinary individuals in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Our mission is to provide resources, shelter, and support to the transgender community, particularly those who are most vulnerable and underserved.

Impact of Sisters PGH

Over the years, Sisters PGH has made a significant impact in the Pittsburgh and Allegheny County region:

  • Housing Initiatives: Through projects like Monica Roberts Place and Project T, we have provided safe and affordable housing for Black and Brown trans people, helping to reduce homelessness and promote stability. We also offer emergency housing for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, ensuring they have a safe place to turn during crises.

  • Financial Support: We have provided over a million dollars in rent and utility support to transgender individuals, alleviating financial burdens and preventing homelessness.

  • Community Programs: We offer a range of programs including support groups, educational workshops, and advocacy training to empower transgender individuals and promote community cohesion.

  • Advocacy and Awareness: Sisters PGH has been instrumental in raising awareness about the issues facing the transgender community, advocating for policy changes, and promoting social justice and equality.

  • Health and Wellness: We provide access to gender-affirming healthcare, mental health services, and wellness programs, ensuring that transgender individuals receive the care they need to thrive.

  • Fostering Growth: We actively foster the growth of other Black trans-led organizations in our region, providing mentorship and support. We aim to be a blueprint for those who feel activated to get involved in social justice and nonprofit work, helping to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders.

  • And Many More Impactful Moments: Through our dedication and relentless efforts, we have created numerous life-changing opportunities and moments for the transgender community.

The Importance of Black Trans Leadership

It is crucial for programs like Stonewall Inn and organizations like Sisters PGH to be led and directed by Black trans people. This leadership ensures that our services are deeply rooted in lived experiences and that our strategies are directly informed by those who understand the unique challenges and strengths of the community. Black trans leadership brings authentic representation, promotes trust within the community, and drives systemic change by addressing the intersecting issues of racism, transphobia, and economic inequality. Empowering Black trans individuals to lead these initiatives not only enhances the effectiveness of our programs but also fosters a more equitable and inclusive society.

History of Stonewall Inn

Stonewall Inn draws its name and inspiration from the historic Stonewall Inn in New York City, the site of the 1969 Stonewall Riots. These riots marked a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, symbolizing resistance against systemic oppression and sparking a broader fight for equality and justice. In honoring this legacy, our Stonewall Inn aims to continue the fight for transgender rights and provide a sanctuary for those in need.

Stonewall STARS Program

The Stonewall STARS program is an integral part of our support network. It consists of a diverse group of community partners, including nonprofits, businesses, and individual allies who contribute on an annual basis through various sponsorship tiers. Their generosity and commitment are essential to sustaining our services and expanding our reach.

Origins of the Stonewall STARS Program

The Stonewall STARS program was created to harness the collective power of community support, drawing inspiration from the original Stonewall Inn’s legacy of solidarity and resistance. By establishing strong partnerships with like-minded organizations and individuals, we aim to build a robust foundation of support that enables us to address the complex needs of the transgender community.

Why It Started

The Stonewall Inn was founded in response to the pressing need for a dedicated space where transgender individuals can access comprehensive, affirming care and support. Recognizing the significant barriers faced by transgender people, particularly those experiencing homelessness or discrimination, we sought to create a space that offers not only essential services but also a sense of belonging and community.

Get Involved

We invite you to join us in our mission to create a more inclusive and compassionate society. Whether through volunteering, becoming a Community Star, or joining our Stonewall STARS program, your support makes a profound difference. Together, we can continue the legacy of Stonewall and build a brighter future for all transgender individuals.