By Donna Sachet–
Too often stories of genuine kindness, heartfelt empathy, and simple giving that this global pandemic has spawned are lost in the flood of news about personal greed, dire predictions, and aching hardship. Our LGBTQ Community, however, has always been known as a group that rallies in a crisis, offering a helping hand when those around us need it most. The SF Queer Nightlife Fund is a perfect example of the best in our Community!
When a group of nightlife individuals within the LGBTQ Community saw the rapid closure of bars and event spaces and the devastating impact that was having on those who make their living in that world, they took action, forming the SF Queer Nightlife Fund. With an ambitious goal of $200,000 and 200 grants, they did their homework, using the Q Foundation as their fiscal umbrella and spreading the word far and wide primarily through social media. Contributions have come from individuals, special events like the Sisters’ Hunky Jesus and Foxy Mary Contest, weekly Quaran-Tea Dances with internationally loved DJs, and through celebrity endorsements. They seem to have done everything right! In this time of delayed and confusing federal response, what a relief it is to see such organized and aggressive action from within our own ranks.
It was recently announced that this grassroots group has received since its inception in mid-March $160,000 and will now begin the promised distribution of this money. This is a remarkable achievement that is going to make a very real difference in the lives of hundreds of local people. That friendly bartender who always has a smile and your favorite cocktail ready will now be able to pay rent. That talented performer who adds immensely to any show will now be able to catch up on PG&E, cable, and other bills. That experienced DJ who always lures you to the dancefloor will now be able to tend to medical needs not covered by any insurance provider. And maybe, someone who loves this City and has consistently been a vital part of our Queer nightlife will reconsider moving and decide to stay right here.
In some worlds, raising this amount of money over this period of time is nothing unusual. We’ve all attended pricey galas and been amazed at the generosity demonstrated. But the SF Queer Nightlife Fund formed quickly in response to an immediate and unforeseen need without paid staff or professional fundraising expertise and we stand amazed at their bravery, creativity, and resounding success.
Fundraising is not easy! Given the extension of Shelter-in-Place directives, and although we are moving into Phase 2, the Fund will continue to accept donations and distribute grants until we see an end to this current climate and some kind of return to a vibrant and healthy San Francisco nightlife. Committee member Phil Hammack writes, “Our commitment to queer nightlife is both to the individuals who make the magic happen day in and day out—the bartenders, drag performers, dancers, DJs, lighting & production designers, producers, etc.—and to the larger culture of nightlife itself.”We unreservedly request that you go to their website now and make a generous contribution.
Other opportunities to help others are readily available, some sponsored by bars and other businesses that have been forced to close and furlough their employees. If you loved spending time at The Edge, especially with a particular bartender, check out their website and extend a helping hand. Virtual drag shows, comedy events, and elaborately produced online videos offer chances to enjoy nightlife virtually and most have easily accessible contribution tools. We hear that Lookout offers cocktails lowered from their balcony to patrons below. Beyond direct financial help, you can offer volunteer hours, if your health permits, and we love seeing friends in face masks and gloves supporting the many established nonprofit organizations in town.
Although one reads a lot about all of us being in the same boat with this pandemic, that really is not true. Shelter-in-Place for a single person living alone in a small apartment is very different from sharing a home with family members. Check on your single friends by phone or other digital device; a conversation can mean a lot to someone in isolation.
We hear stories of people automatically receiving those government stimulus checks and after careful review of their own situation deciding to donate that money to those in more need. And there are those among us going above and beyond what official government programs offer, like some landlords simply asking their tenants to skip a month’s rent. Perhaps you’ve seen artists and other creative folks painting colorful murals where bare plywood boards had covered favorite hang-outs. We’ve seen honey bears, cartoon characters, and even the once omnipresent Brown twins popping up, all wearing appropriate face coverings, of course.
It is these charming stories and generous acts that add some balance to the unprecedented impact the pandemic is having on all of us. We have always avidly watched the news, but how much can one stand night after night? So, share some good news with each other whenever possible, not closing your eyes to the reality around you, but in order to keep some balance and maintain some optimism. No one knows what San Francisco or the world is going to look like in June or September or 2021 or further, but recognizing the best in our nature reminds us of hopeful possibilities around the corner. So, stay home, stay safe, and stay calm.
Donna Sachet is a celebrated performer, fundraiser, activist and philanthropist who has dedicated over two decades to the LGBTQ Community in San Francisco. Contact her at empsachet@gmail.com
Every Sunday
Quaran-Tea Dance
Popular DJs, high energy music, benefiting the SF Queer Nightlife Fund
1–6 pm
Twitch and Zoom
Every Wednesday
Virtual Musical Wednesdays
Hosts Brian Kent, Edge regulars, sing along at home
7 pm
Twitch and Zoom
Published on May 7, 2020
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