Cempa Community Care remains committed to providing equal and equitable access to healthcare and support services, including in marginalized communities. We’re committed to supporting the LGBTQ communities in all the work we do. Join Cempa Community Care in celebrating Pride Month this June. 

Pride Month celebrations in 2019 marked 50 years since the 1969 Stonewall riots that sparked the nation’s modern-day gay rights movement. Each June since the mid-90s has been recognized as a month to celebrate and promote the work of individuals and organizations that bring equity and equality to the LGBTQ community. 

This year is without exception. With cities and states responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, paired with the global response to the Black Lives Matters movement, Pride Month may look different in 2020. Many parades and in-person celebrations have been rescheduled or are going digital. But the work continues. In a landmark Supreme Court decision in June, the court ruled the language of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits sex discrimination, applies to discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, according to the New York Times.

During Pride Month, Cempa and other allied businesses and organizations promote open dialogue around diversity and inclusion and work to create supportive, respectful, and inclusive environments for everyone. 

This month also marks our annual Dining Out For Life event, which raises funds and awareness for the fight against HIV in the Tennessee Valley. Join us on June 25 and support local restaurants who support Cempa, either by dining in or ordering a meal to go.

How to Celebrate Pride Month: Dining Out For Life + Know Your Status

Education and awareness of LGBTQ historic struggles and rights is a good starting point for celebrating Pride Month. We suggest:

• Reading about Stonewall and how it was a catalyst for a movement. 
• Checking out online celebrations across the globe or in person. 
• Joining Cempa’s Dining Out For Life event on June 25.

LGBTQ communities have been disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS and STIs. Cempa’s mission is to serve all people in the community by providing the full spectrum of healthcare services, from free screenings and primary care to and mental health and therapy services. For decades, we have been a leading advocate for HIV testing, care, and support services, and this month is no different. 

During Pride Month, take the initiative to know your status and empower people in your life on June 27 for National HIV Testing Day. There are many options for testing and treatment, and Cempa provides the range of services related to HIV prevention, detection, and treatment. In consideration of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are even offering free HIV tests that can be taken at home. 

Join us in celebrating Pride Month — get tested, be an advocate for HIV awareness, and be a champion for equality. 

Preventing the spread of HIV and STIs and working to end the stigma against HIV/AIDS is an important component to Pride Month. Request a free HIV home test to know your status or make a donation by texting CEMPA to 423-205-7110.