Shane Bitney Crone

I wish this video wasn’t relevant again, but here we are.

To those who say politics aren't personal, my life tells a different story—one many of you already know. In 2011, I lost my partner. Our love was recognized neither by state nor federal law, and in the raw aftermath of his death, I faced discrimination that only deepened my grief. This experience ignited my journey advocating for marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights, leading me to share our story through public speaking, my documentary "Bridegroom," and my YouTube video "It Could Happen To You." I knew then, as I know now, that my story was not unique. This fight has always been, and will always be, deeply personal.

Over the years, we have celebrated significant victories, like the repeal of Prop 8 in California and the nationwide end of DOMA. These hard-won rights came through decades of relentless advocacy and sacrifice by LGBTQ+ individuals and allies. But today, these gains are once again at risk. We must stay vigilant to protect them.

THE THREAT TO MARRIAGE EQUALITY IS NOT HYPOTHETICAL. The President-elect has openly stated his intention to appoint Supreme Court justices who could dismantle marriage rights at the federal level. Meanwhile, many Republican officials across the country continue to oppose LGBTQ+ protections.

Civil rights should never be contingent on geography. We must stand united in protecting these essential freedoms—not just for ourselves, but for future generations who deserve the dignity of equal treatment under the law. Together, let’s make sure that love, equality, and dignity remain protected for all. Our love, our families, our futures are worth fighting for.

I know many of us feel hopeless and scared right now, but here are some ways you can take action to protect yourselves and the LGBTQ+ community RIGHT NOW. This is in no way comprehensive, merely a starting point for those who want/need it.

PROTECTING OUR LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY ACTION GUIDE

1. LEGAL PROTECTIONS

A. Essential Documentation
-Update your will
-Name spouse/partner explicitly
-Detail specific wishes for assets

B. Legal Safeguards
-Create living trust
-Secure medical power of attorney
-Obtain financial power of attorney
-Draft advance healthcare directives

C. Family Protection
-Complete second parent adoption
-Update birth certificates
-Secure guardianship documents
-Create custody arrangements

D. Legal Resources
-Find LGBTQ+ friendly lawyers via lgbtqbar. org
-Get free consultations when available
-Keep copies of all documents in secure location
-Share copies with trusted family/friends
-Review and update documents annually

2. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

A. Safety Planning
-Create comprehensive emergency contacts list
-Keep important documents easily accessible
-Know and document your legal rights
-Identify backup housing options

B. Support Network
-Exchange emergency contact information
-Create a reliable buddy system
-Join local support groups
-Identify and document local safe spaces
-Save essential hotline numbers

3. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

A. Financial Support
-Human Rights Campaign (national advocacy)
-Lambda Legal (legal defense)
-GLAAD (media representation)
-The Trevor Project (youth support)
-Local LGBTQ+ centers and shelters

B. Economic Action
-Research and support LGBTQ+ owned businesses
-Prioritize Black, BIPOC, and women/femme owned enterprises
-Avoid companies with anti-LGBTQ+ practices

C. Active Participation
-Support inclusive library programs
-Join Pride organizing committees
-Attend town hall meetings
-Participate in local LGBTQ+ groups

D. Advocacy & Organization
-Join Indivisible. org chapters
-Connect with local activists
-Register voters
-Monitor and respond to local legislation

4. ALLY RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Consistent Support
-Check in weekly with LGBTQ+ friends/family
-Offer transportation to events/meetings
-Assist with document preparation
-Provide safe spaces when needed
-Listen without judgment

B. Active Advocacy
-Attend events as visible support
-Speak up against discrimination
-Share educational resources
-Challenge discriminatory remarks
-Vote for equality-minded candidates

5. SHARING YOUR STORY

A. Personal Empowerment
-Reclaim and affirm personal narratives
-Amplify LGBTQ+ voices to challenge stereotypes
-Educate others about discrimination
-Build connections for support and solidarity

B. Speaking Out
-Share when safe and appropriate
-Connect with advocacy groups
-Write to local papers
-Speak at community meetings
-Use social media thoughtfully

Need resources? Call:
• Trevor Project: 866-488-7386
• LGBT National Hotline: 888-843-4564
• Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Remember: Our community has faced adversity before and emerged stronger. Together, we'll continue protecting our rights and supporting each other. Stay informed, stay connected, stay strong. 💪🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️🖤🤎