Members of Houston’s LGBTQ+ community gathered at the Montrose Center on Wednesday night, responding to the reelection of Donald Trump as President. The event, held in the center’s parking lot, provided a space for individuals to process their emotions. This gathering included members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies, and leaders who shared concerns about potential impacts on LGBTQ+ rights under the administration’s policies.
Stevie Jimenez, 22, attended with his husband, Andrew Perez, 20. They joined the crowd in a communal scream, expressing the frustration many felt. Jimenez shared that despite having to attend work, he needed to connect with others who shared his feelings. The Montrose Center’s CEO, Avery Belyeu, addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of community in difficult times. The center, which began as a counseling service for the LGBTQ+ community, now serves as a community support hub. Therapists led group sessions to help attendees manage their emotions.
The gathering introduced Houston’s LGBTQ+ community to available resources. The Montrose Center offers counseling services for individuals, couples, and groups with licensed therapists. While the sessions following the election were free, regular counseling services are available with insurance coverage or a sliding scale cost based on financial situations. Case management services at the center cover health care, housing, employment, and legal needs. An upcoming Youth Action Summit will focus on middle and high school students, aiming to teach advocacy and community building.
Other organizations also provide support. Equality Texas offers online resources and legal aid for parents of transgender youth. The Normal Anomaly focuses on transgender allyship, educating elected officials and business owners on supporting transgender community members. The Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce hosts events for business owners and the broader community.
Belyeu addressed over 80 attendees, validating a range of emotions. She recognized feelings of grief, anger, disbelief, and fear, assuring that all were welcomed in the space. The gathering was designed to address community concerns about the election of candidates with policies that threaten LGBTQ+ rights. Brad Pritchett, interim CEO of Equality Texas, expressed frustration with candidates’ successes despite their anti-transgender stances. He reminded the attendees of the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience, citing historical resistance and strength.
Following the event, many participated in group sessions indoors. Belyeu noted the high attendance and mentioned plans to evaluate the demand for future support resources. The center will launch a community advisory board next month to identify diverse community needs. This board will include approximately 20 members, representing various ages, races, ethnicities, genders, and sexual orientations.
Tammi Wallace, co-founder and CEO of the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of community support. She encouraged members and non-members alike to engage with the chamber. Wallace stated the need to continue advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, urging the community to stay united and active.
