We have an announcement!

Starting this Pride month, PROMO will begin to use the acronym LGBTQ when referring to our events, in our mission, and when we are collectively referring to our community as a whole.

To some this decision may seem like we are late to the party, and to others it may be a challenge. The language that our community uses is continually evolving, and that’s a good thing. PROMO’s efforts represent the breadth and diversity of our community, and our language should reflect that. LGBTQ is a more accurate and inclusive description of our population.

All people deserve representation and inclusion, and it’s important not to prioritize some voices over others. That’s why visibility can make such a big impact. Many people and organizations, including PROMO, feel that “queer” and “the queer community” covers a wide base, including many other identities that are less frequently discussed than those covered by the LGBT acronym: asexuality, identifying as non-binary, being intersex, being an ally, and more. Recent data from the Williams Institute in UCLA shows that upwards of 27% of young people identify as non-binary or gender nonconforming. The addition of the Q may help people feel more welcomed into the community and, hopefully, more comfortable in their own identity.

To learn more about PROMO’s decision and the history of the word “queer” overall, check out this PROMO FAQ!

We recognize and honor that the word “queer” is still hurtful for some members of the LGBTQ community, and that may always be the case. Reclaiming the word “queer” does not remove or invalidate the very real experiences of people who have been hurt by the word. Yet, we see every day how this word and identity continues to become less wounding and more empowering as people of all ages fiercely and proudly reclaim it. In fact, not to proudly use the word queer as an organization would be — and has been — disempowering for many.

In our work towards equality, we recognize how critical it is to have a seat at the table and to be heard. Adding the Q is another way to ensure that our entire community is represented.

To help with this transition, PROMO developed an FAQ to answer your questions and share why this step is a priority for us. Some of the questions this FAQ addresses include:

●     Why is PROMO adding the Q to LGBTQ?

●     I’m not LGBTQ. Can I use the word “queer”?

●     Isn’t “queer” a bad word?

●     How new is the use of the word “queer”?

We are so EXCITED for this evolution as an organization that strives to represent each and every one of you in the community, in the Capitol, and in the movement. Celebrate this step with us at a Pride Festival in Missouri, with our #MOlgbtqUnited campaign.

P.S. Celebrate this excitement with us through a gift to PROMO of $5, $10, or $25 right now!