LGBTQ Human Rights Organizations in Virginia

Founded in 1989 as Virginians for Justice, Equality Virginia has grown into Richmond, VA's leading advocacy organization committed to building a fully inclusive Commonwealth where LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive. This 501(c)(3) organization recognizes that LGBTQ Virginians—from youth to seniors—continue to experience violence, discrimination, and systemic disparities, particularly transgender people and people of color, and works tirelessly to address these inequities. At its heart, Equality Virginia is driven by a mission to advocate and organize across Virginia, creating a future where all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and broader spectrum LGBTQIA+ people flourish. The organization believes in the transformative power of community collaboration and the potential of LGBTQIA+ individuals to create meaningful change. Rather than working in isolation, Equality Virginia partners with communities, organizations, and local advocates throughout the Commonwealth to build collective strength. The organization's approach is rooted in six core values that reflect its commitment to the communities it serves: Community, which builds interconnectedness and belonging; Equity, which addresses the unique needs of marginalized groups; Perseverance, which sustains long-term change efforts; Impact, which creates measurable improvements in people's lives; Empowerment, which amplifies LGBTQIA+ voices and builds leadership; and Integrity, which ensures transparency and accountability. By centering the experiences and voices of LGBTQIA+ Virginians, particularly those in underrepresented communities, Equality Virginia continues its legacy of creating a Richmond and Virginia where all people have the safety and dignity to thrive.

Side by Side, based in Richmond, Virginia, is a community-driven organization with over three decades of dedicated service to LGBTQ+ youth. Founded in 1991 as the Richmond Organization for Sexual Minority Youth (ROSMY) and rebranded in 2016, Side by Side has established itself as a national leader in youth-centered advocacy and support. The organization is built on four core strategic priorities: a public commitment to Black LGBTQ+ youth flourishing, creating vibrant and diverse communities through partnership and mutual support, maintaining a youth-centered approach to all decision-making, and serving as a powerful voice for LGBTQ+ community education and progress. What distinguishes Side by Side is its deep commitment to intersectionality and racial equity, recognizing the complete humanity of every young person it serves while actively working to dismantle systems of racial inequity. The organization celebrates a rich history of firsts—from offering the first college scholarship for LGBTQ+ youth in 1996 to hosting groundbreaking alternative proms and launching innovative programs like its Host Home initiative for homeless young adults. Side by Side's impact extends throughout Virginia's LGBTQ+ community, with support groups spanning from Richmond to Charlottesville and training programs reaching schools and organizations across the Commonwealth. By listening to youth voices, creating affirming spaces, and building long-term relationships within Black communities, Side by Side continues its tradition of supporting LGBTQ+ youth to define themselves and flourish in a more equitable future.

Diversity Richmond stands as a catalyst, voice, place, and resource dedicated to enriching the LGBTQ+ community of Greater Richmond, VA. Rooted in 15 years of community advocacy, this nonprofit organization emerged from the 2015 merger of two established Richmond institutions, creating a permanent and sustainable structure committed to serving LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, and allies. The organization's core mission centers on championing diversity while actively advancing equity and inclusion throughout the region. Diversity Richmond prioritizes intentional support for those disproportionately impacted within the LGBTQ+ community, including people of color, transgender individuals, and those identifying as non-binary or gender non-conforming. Operating from their Richmond location, the organization builds community through meaningful relationships with volunteers, partner nonprofits, and local supporters who share a vision of a vibrant, inclusive community where LGBTQ+ citizens are treated with respect and dignity. Beyond programming and events, Diversity Richmond has cultivated a safe, welcoming environment rooted in values of equity, inclusion, and human dignity. The organization's commitment extends to creating affirming experiences that celebrate the unique gifts of LGBTQ+ individuals while holding systems accountable in promoting full civil rights for all Virginians. Through community donations, member programs, and collaborative partnerships, Diversity Richmond continues strengthening Greater Richmond as a place where diversity is not just acknowledged but genuinely celebrated.