As Zuna Institute celebrates the first ever report, "Black Lesbians Matter," and the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell, vital challenges still plague our community. Disparities in healthcare, discrimination, and the lack of family rights are critical to Black lesbians because we represent the largest segment of same-sex couples who are parenting within the LGBTQ community. As a community of families we are disproportionally affected by these critical issues.

We hope you will consider making a special year-end donation to help us start 2011 strong and viable.

The reality is because of donors like you Zuna had some great feats in 2010:

·         Our quantitative study, "Black Lesbian Matters (BLM)" - An examination of the unique experiences, perspectives, and priorities of the Black Lesbian community.

·          Everyday Families," a video about Black lesbian families documenting their everyday life. This film was developed to gain support for marriage equality among mainstream African American communities.  It is the only video that portrays Black lesbians with children.

·         Regional meetings in Chicago, Philadelphia, Petaluma, Las Vegas, reaching over 500 new members. We will be hosting meetings in every major city and community introducing our report BLM and to build partnerships with organizations around the country.

·         Provided technical assistance and support to organizations: Elements organization, Philadelphia; NIA Collective, Oakland; Black Lesbians United, Los Angeles; Butch Voices, Los Angeles; Family Fest, Sacramento. It's important for us to give back to organizations that need help in order to increase their capacity.

·         Responded to over 1,000 contacts either by email, phone, or Facebook from Black lesbians around the country that needed help from legal matters to information about social events.  Our goal is to be the one-stop shop for all your Black lesbians needs.

These accomplishments are just a tip in the iceberg to what we have achieved in 2010.  A donation of $35, $50, $100 or $250, or any amount you can contribute will help us in 2011 to:

• Help us hire a part-time program assistant, and support the day to day work of the organization. As you may not know foundations are only providing project support and we need your support to help reach our vision to be the national organization for Black lesbians.
• Plan for our 2011 National Black Lesbian Conference and provide scholarships to those in need.
• Fight for the rights of families through education and advocacy

So please support this work by giving a year-end donation.

With your tax deductible donation you will 'Open the Door' for us to be Effective, Successful and Sustainable. Thank you for your unwavering commitment.