We are excited to announce the addition of our newest state partner to the Equality Federation: Arkansas Black Gay Men’s Forum!

Arkansas Black Gay Men’s Forum (BGM FORUM) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization providing services that address health, social and economic disparities among Black Americans with the mission to empower, uplift, and unite Black gay men through interactive dialogue and specific programs.

Arkansas Black Gay Men’s Forum serves as a think tank on pressing social, economic, and political issues. They strive to build partnerships with organizations and individuals committed to the empowerment of black gay men.

Their main values and programs are:

Economic Equity

They are committed to advocating for those values, vision, policies, programs, institutional changes, collaborations and resources that allow Black LGBTQ+ people to compete effectively in the marketplace.

Health Equity

They are committed to advocating for those values, vision, policies, programs, institutional changes, collaborations, and resources that allow Black LGBTQ+ people to thrive physically, behaviorally, environmentally and spiritually under the basic premise of public health that all people have a right to attain their full health potential.

Social Equity

They are committed to advocating for those values, vision, policies, programs, institutional changes, collaborations, and resources that allow Black LGBTQ+ people to achieve fair access to livelihood, education, and resources; full participation in the political and cultural life of the community; and self-determination in meeting fundamental needs. Their definition of social equity encompasses principles related to the adopting of plans, policies, and regulations that are fair and achieve a vibrant community, diverse cultural assets and amenities, equal and adequate services and infrastructure, mix of affordable housing options, coalition building and economic opportunities.

When asked about their reason for becoming an Equality Federation member Arkansas Black Gay Men’s Forum said: “We have decided to become a member of the Equality Federation to help build our organizations' advocacy capacity.” We look forward to working with Arkansas Black Gay Men’s Forum to do just that!

We hope you will join us in welcoming them to the Federation!