Education and Community empowerment through Storytelling.
We host monthly events throughout the state, in which community members tell their stories at vulnerable depth to the broader community. The intent is to be seen with empathy - humanizing members of the LGBTQIA+ community in the process. Long-term, this will educate neighbors and community members about LGBTQIA issues, build a strong sense of connection between all, and empower those within the queer community to advocate and share their stories in meaningful ways. You can read our helpful guide on how to tell your story here.
Interested in becoming a storyteller?
Our 2026 Schedule is:
Saturday, April 25 - Peterborough (Trans+ Tales)
May - Lakes Region (Trans+ Tales)
May - Manchester (Trans+ Tales)
July - Manchester (Tales from Aids)
July - Nashua (Trans+ Tales)
August - Portsmouth (Trans+ Tales)
August - Lebanon (Trans+ Tales)
September - Conway (Trans+ Tales)
September - Concord (Marriage Equality)
October - Concord (Trans+ Tales)
October - Littleton (Trans+ Tales)
November - Claremont (Trans+ Tales)
December - Rochester (Trans+ Tales)
Community Need:
A recent survey indicated that 71% of Americans claim to have never met a transgender person. With this kind of invisibility, it is easy for cisgender people to believe hateful social messages, and to never find the empathy to see trans people as simply human. A bold solution to this is for our community to tell our stories to those who will listen. We know that these types of events are a critical piece of community awareness building.
Project Description:
603 Equality works hard to produce these events with emotional and physical safety. We also work hard to bring a broad audience of potential allies to experience these moments, leaning into community partners.
The storytelling events are a pure example of strength through vulnerability.
Results:
Our community feels empowered to tell their lived experiences both on and off stage. Folks have been able to share vulnerable stories in safe spaces, and take those skills of vulnerability, narrative, and public speaking skills out into the world. We’ve heard from participants that they’ve participated in open mic nights elsewhere, workshopped their story for other venues, but also felt a sense of agency and resiliency that has allowed them to engage with their community in meaningful ways as well.
Funding for this program can be provided directly to 603 Equality as a 501(c)4 organization, or through our Fiscal Sponsor, a 501(c)3 organization.
These programs are partially supported by:
Our 250+ grassroots funders. Donate to support here.
Approximately 180 in-kind / volunteer hours annually
In-kind support through community coalitions with non-profit partners