Diverse & Resilient joins CBS 58 to discuss their local impact on LGBTQ+ health

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Diverse & Resilient, a statewide LGBTQ+ public health organization, has been serving the community since 1995.

With offices in Milwaukee and Appleton, the group focuses on anti-violence, capacity building, community programs and sexual health, according to Kristen Ramirez, one of three representatives interviewed by CBS 58's Frankie Jupiter this week.

They shared a discussion about the organization's purpose in the Milwaukee area and its plans.

"We're coming up on our 30th anniversary in 2025," said Ramirez, Director of Operations and Development. "We do our work really grounded in social justice and racial justice. So, Pride is also about intersectionality for us. We have folks that are people of color at our organization and folks that we serve."

"For us, it's Pride all year long," Ramirez added.

The organization offers a walk-in testing clinic at its Milwaukee location from Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. as well as LGBTQ training for organizations, according to Jaylin Mitchell, youth program coordinator.

Mitchell also noted that their education efforts go beyond the clinic, adding, "We offer inclusive and comprehensive sexual education programming to any and all youth-serving organizations, and MPS schools."

Andrew McKee, an advocate, emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces within the community. "Queerness is not a monolith. It is inherently diverse and nuanced."

"We show up. We provide services and extend our network to other community partners, and ensure there's a wealth of resources for our us to receive, because if we don't do it, then who else will?"

Diverse & Resilient will be present at the Juneteenth Festival on Wednesday, June 19 in Milwaukee, offering information about their programs and services. Community members can learn more by visiting the festival or connecting with them online, including Facebook and Instagram.

Donations are also welcome to help the organization, and they can be made by clicking here.

Information about the 2025 Wisconsin LGBTQ Summit, taking place March 8, 2025 can be found by visiting WILGBTQSummit.org.