Drag Away the Stigma: Supporting Mental Health and Suicide Prevention

Drag Away the Stigma Event Details

• 🎭 The second annual "Drag Away the Stigma" event is a fundraising extravaganza happening next Saturday at House of Yes in Brooklyn.
• 🏳️‍🌈 The event aims to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, share love, and raise money for suicide prevention.
• 🎶 Attendees can expect a huge dynamic drag show, tasty bites, and delicious drinks.

Mission of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

• 🎗️ AFSP's mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide, operating in all 50 states plus Puerto Rico.
• 🔬 The nonprofit funds research for LGBTQ+ studies, advocates for protective programs and laws, and provides resources through its "Talk Saves Lives" program.
• 🤝 Volunteers are crucial to AFSP's operations, forming the heart of the organization and providing support and community.

Personal Stories and Advocacy

• 🎤 Joe Fontana, a board member of AFSP, highlights the importance of community and support for those struggling with mental health.
• 🏳️‍🌈 Marti Gould Cummings, a drag artist and activist, shared their personal experience with suicidal ideation and the importance of using their platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health.
• ⚠️ Cummings emphasized that LGBTQ+ individuals, especially youth, are under attack legislatively, leading to elevated rates of suicidal ideation, making advocacy crucial.

Key Takeaways and Support

• 💡 The event aims to show people that there is a community fighting for them and that they are not alone.
• ❤️ It reinforces that mental health impacts everyone and that support and resources are available.
• 🎟️ Tickets for the event can be purchased at afsp.org.
• 📞 For immediate help, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.