Finding businesses and organizations which advocate and support LGBTQIA+ communities can be hard if you are not sure where to look.
You’re in luck!
For Pride Month, the Belmont Vision has compiled a list of businesses, organizations and communities that support the LGBTQIA+ community and are fighting for equality for those who call Nashville home.
Safe Space #1: GracePointe Church
Located not too far from Belmont, this progressive non-denominational church has openly embraced LGBTQIA+ members since 2015.
It supports all churchgoers no matter how they identify and offer an LGBTQIA+ gathering for those looking for an understanding community within a spiritual space.
Safe Space #2: Launch Pad
Launched in 2014, this community program houses Queer youth who do not have a steady place to call home.
It has an independent-supported living program designed to help young adults get established and an emergency shelter in the cold winter months for teens and adolescents who are experiencing homelessness.
Safe Space #3: HotMess Sports
Want to play competitive sports outside of Belmont but have been struggling to find a supportive league?
Look no further than HotMess Sports.
Offering a variety of sports ranging from volleyball and kickball to bowling and dodgeball, this amateur sports league welcomes all LGBTQIA+ athletes.
Safe Space #4: Metro Nashville Softball Association
Similar to HotMess Sports, the Metro Nashville Softball Association league looks to bring together LGBTQIA+ members in a competitive athletic environment through softball.
Divided into skill and experience-based leagues, anyone can participate whether they have picked up a bat before or not.
Safe Space #5: Oasis Center’s “Just Us” Program
Oasis Center is a non-profit organization striving to help young adults in Middle Tennessee, and that philosophy stands true in their fight for LGBTQIA+ rights.
At Oasis, the “Just Us” program is designed to empower and support LGBTQIA+ youth with mentoring, therapy support and social advocacy.
While many of their programs are geared toward high schoolers, Oasis assists adults up to the age of 24 and offers many volunteer options for those wanting to get involved.
Safe Space #6: PFLAG Nashville Chapter
PFLAG is a non-profit organization focused on helping family and friends embrace their LGBTQIA+ loved ones.
Since the Nashville Chapter was founded in the 1980s, it had offered free support, education and resources for parents, family and friends.
Not only does it have volunteer opportunities year-round, but it hosts monthly meetings in downtown Nashville that are free to attend.
Safe Space #: Nashville in Harmony
Music is said to bring everyone together and that ideology rings true for Nashville in Harmony.
Nashville’s only LGBTQIA+ and allies choir brings people of all different sexual orientations, genders and races together to build community.
Though singers audition in “vocal interviews,” there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer on and off the stage.
Safe Space #: Suzy Wong’s House of Yum
For those who like brunch, this might be the place for you.
Just down the street from Music Row, this restaurant offers highly rated food and drag queens who perform while you eat.
Only open on the weekend, you’ll need reservations, but once you’re in, sit down, relax and enjoy the show.
Safe Space #9The Turnip Truck
This homegrown natural food grocery store has not only supplied many Nashville communities with fresh foods and vegetables but has supplied many LGBTQIA+ residents with jobs and opportunities.
Winning the Nashville Chamber LGBT Business of the Year award in 2022, Turnip Truck continues to be an active ally for the success of the Queer community in Nashville.
Sage Space #10: Nashville Cares
With Tennessee being the state with the 15th highest rate of HIV infection and having one of the higher general STD rates in the nation, getting tested is important more than ever.
Nashville Cares’ primary mission is to end the epidemic of HIV/Aids in Middle Tennessee. It offers services such as confidential same-day HIV/AIDS testing, STD testing, affordable check-ups for low-income patients and programs that equip LGBTQIA+ men with the information necessary to stay safe.
Safe Space #11: Glendale United Methodist Church
In 2019, the Glendale United Methodist Church became an official member of the reconciling congregation – a network of ministries looking to include people of all sexual orientation and gender identities.
Since then, this church has been active in advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights by welcoming all members, attending annual pride events and partnering with other LGBTQIA+ organizations–like Launch Pad– to show their support. Whether you’re a longtime celebrator of Pride Month, or don’t know where to begin, these 12 businesses, organizations and places are here to help and support LGBTQIA+ members and allies all year long.
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This article was written by Seth Thorpe