Our Approach
Central to our approach is understanding that care is structural. It lives in the policies institutions adopt, the systems they build, and the resources they provide.
The Path to Becoming an Advocating Institution
Ensuring equitable access to systems of care requires a clear analysis of how they currently operate, where they fall short, and how they can be redesigned to produce more just outcomes.
To do this, we developed the Institutional Continuum and its companion survey, both of which are grounded in the lived experiences of Black LGBTQ+ communities. Rather than treating these experiences as anecdotal, we use them as data to inform how institutions can make structural changes that close gaps, repair harm, and build systems that better serve those most often left out.
The continuum maps institutions across a spectrum from antagonizing to advocating. It makes visible how systems either reinforce harm or create the conditions for safety, dignity, and flourishing. It allows us to understand where an institution stands and how change happens over time.
We hold the Advocating Institution as the standard. It actively champions the freedom and full flourishing of Black LGBTQ+ communities, speaks out against systemic harm, and invests in the well-being of all communities. It is the horizon we are always moving toward together.
Our approach is working.
Based on a recently published three-year longitudinal study conducted by scholars at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, the more than 60 institutional partners and 160 leaders we have trained have moved an average of five points on the Institutional Continuum Survey toward the Advocating Institution standard, demonstrating measurable, documented progress toward systemic change.
Ready to Move?
Toward Pride equips institutions with the tools, practices, and accountability needed to deliver equitable, affirming care. If you’re ready to move from intention to impact, explore how to begin partnering with us.
