Weekly Update: Happy AANHPI Heritage Month! Webinar Opportunity, Business Spotlight, and Drag Ride at StarCycle

May 7

Welcome to Basic Rights Oregon’s weekly newsletter, where we update you on the LGBTQ2SIA+ news you should know, things you can do, and ways you can help. To receive this newsletter as a weekly email, subscribe here. Reach out to our team anytime at info@basicrights.org. BRO’s work—including this newsletter—is funded entirely by our supporters. Donate here.

Hello friends of Basic Rights Oregon! Thanks for reading our weekly update.

Happy Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! In May, we celebrate and honor the rich history, diversity, and contributions of AANHPI communities. We must also continue to fight against the ongoing targeting of our immigrant and BIPOC neighbors. Here at Basic Rights Oregon, we know that LGBTQ2SIA+ rights are immigrant rights, and we recognize the intersectionality of our identities and our struggle.

It has never been more crucial to stand in solidarity with our vulnerable neighbors. Visit ACLU to learn your rights and report ICE sightings to Portland Immigration Rights Coalition (PIRC) at (888) 622-1510.

Keep reading to learn about a free webinar (including our very own Policy and Research Director!), Mental Health Awareness Month, and a Bites for Rights Restaurant feature!

Here are the LGBTQ2SIA+ headlines and activities you need to know this week:

Join Pride Foundation for a Powerful Conversation on the State of the Region on Thursday, May 14. The political landscape across the Northwest is shifting rapidly—and we need to talk about it. From bathroom bills to attacks on trans youth in sports, we're diving deep into the policy decisions and legislative battles that are reshaping our region right now. Hear directly from frontline advocates and organizers across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Alaska, including our very own Director of Policy and Research, Seth Johnstone! These panelists are on the ground fighting back, protecting our communities, and refusing to let harmful legislation go unchallenged.

Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! By raising awareness and sharing stories about mental health, we can break down stigma, invite connection, and advocate for change. We everyone to reflect on their mental health and use this month as an opportunity to take care of their mental and emotional wellbeing.

Quest Center for Integrative Health offers LGBTQ2SIA+ affirming groups and workshops that include topics like mental health, art, and community building, as well as some simple self-care ideas to try.

Por Qué No? is a vibrant counter-service restaurant serving up tacos, housemade chips & more from various regions throughout Mexico. Por Qué No? focuses on fresh ingredients prepared with love, warm, friendly service & strong support for the local community. Check out their awesome weekday happy hour, weekend brunch, taco bar catering, daily specials and an incredible staff ready to show you why they're proud to be known as the sunniest place in Portland!

Be sure to stop by on June 25 to raise funds to protect and defend LGBTQ2SIA+ rights for all Oregonians! Businesses participating in Bites for Rights will donate a portion of their proceeds to Basic Rights Oregon. Find the full list of businesses here.

If you own a cafe, bar, restaurant, coffee shop, dispensary, etc. we’d love you to join us! Contact us at events@basicrights.org to learn more.

Cycle for LGBTQ2SIA+ rights on June 14 at 9 a.m. with StarCycle!

You won’t want to miss this fundraising spin class and performance by the iconic Miss Jaxon. Make sure to reserve your spot by sending $25 to @starcyclepdx between May 14-16!