Mission
Brave Space Alliance is the first Black-led, trans-led LGBTQ+ Center located on the South Side of Chicago, dedicated to creating and providing affirming, culturally competent, for-us by-us resources, programming, and services for LGBTQ+ individuals on the South and West sides of the city. We strive to empower, embolden, and educate each other through mutual aid, knowledge-sharing, and the creation of community-sourced resources as we build toward the liberation of all oppressed peoples.
Dignity First Approach
Dignity is a fundamental human right that should be afforded to all members of the LGBTQ+ community, without exception. Unfortunately, LGBTQ+ individuals have historically faced significant levels of discrimination and marginalization in society, leading to negative impacts on their mental health and well-being. It is crucial to promote respect, acceptance, and inclusion for all members of the LGBTQ+ community, in order to build a more equitable and just society.
Four Pillars of Dignity
Health, Housing, Food, Identity.
Programs
- Jasmine Alexander Housing Building, Southshore neighborhood
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Community Pantry
- The community pantry serves the TLBG+ community and is a critical resource for ALL Chicagoans who are facing systemic discrimination and marginalization. Our pantry helps to address the issue of food insecurity, which is a significant concern for many TLBG+ individuals who may experience homelessness, poverty, or other forms of economic hardship. Being specifically designed to serve the TLBG+ community can help to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive. that can help individuals in need.
- The Pantry is open Monday-Thursday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and Fridays, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
- Please contact our Pantry Coordinator, José with any questions. joser@bravespacealliance.org.
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Identity Enrichment Services
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The Brave trifecta states that when you look good, you feel good, when you feel good, you do good. We prioritize self-care and view
it as a necessary part of our community’s holistic health.
- Barbershop
- Nail salon
- Hair services
- Facials
- Massages
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Dignity Suit
- The Brave Space Alliance walk-in closet provides free, gender-affirming clothing, and other products that are meant to foster dignified access to what makes our clients feel good.
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The Brave trifecta states that when you look good, you feel good, when you feel good, you do good. We prioritize self-care and view
it as a necessary part of our community’s holistic health.
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STI/HIV testing
- Brave Space offers on-site HIV and STI testing that is rooted in compassion and education. Our tester prioritizes concern for our client’s overall sexual health and fosters opportunities to educate about safety and harm reduction. At-home tests are also available.
- Our testing services are not limited to our center. We believe in meeting our clients where they are, which is why our testing services collaborate with community and night-live events to provide testing all around the city.
- Please contact Chrissy with any questions at chrish@bravespacealliance.org.