Bunkers are affiliated Rupaul’s drag racing Star Kerri Colby and Whitman-Walker Health are federally qualified community health centers specializing in HIV prevention and treatment and LGBTQ-friendly healthcare as part of an ongoing fundraiser.
The fundraiser is currently being carried out online through a Whitman Walker donation Portal They are also trying to help community health centres maintain some of their key services.
This year, Whitman Walker is facing a 40% cut in federal research funds based on the current Republican administration, canceling grants dedicated to LGBTQ healthcare research as part of a desire to eliminate funds for so-called “Dei” (diversity, equity, and inclusion).
Significant cuts in funding could impact programs related to HIV prevention, gender maintenance care for transgender individuals, and mental health services.
Already, Whitman Walker has lost seven research awards, affecting Whitman Walker’s work on HIV and cancer treatment, and his efforts to reduce healthcare disparities affecting historically marginalized populations.
“These budget cuts couldn’t come at a worse time,” Ted Miller, interim executive director of the Whitman Walker Foundation, said in a statement. “LGBTQ+ people, especially black trans women and LGBTQ+ women of color, are already facing major barriers to care. This fundraiser will help maintain services and raise awareness when they are most needed.”
Proceeds from the fundraiser, which runs through May 23, will support Whitman Walker’s efforts to provide primary health care, HIV-specific care, mental health counseling and gender maintenance care to LGBTQ patients.
In addition to the online donation portal, Bunker will be holding the Club Kerri event on Friday, May 23rd, featuring the performance of Colby, the club’s headliner law. The cover is $20, with 50% of door sales going directly to Whitman Walker Health. Tickets are also available in advance online.
“Club Kerri” begins at 10pm with a performance by a DJ set and a local drag queen cake pop, followed by a DJ set and Colby performance. Rupaul’s Drag Race: All Stars. Colby will also donate a portion of the proceeds from her T-shirt sale to Whitman Walker.
“The bunkers were built to be more than a nightclub. It’s a space where our community can feel safe, praised and supported,” owner Zach Renovates said in a statement. “Parting with Whitman Walker and working with someone as iconic as Kelly Colby is a way to give DC back to a very strong and resilient community.”
Follow Bunker on Instagram for more information and updates on the fundraiser and Club Kelly event @bunkerclubdcWhitman Walker’s Health @whitmanwalkerand Colby @kerricolby.
Visit us for more information about Whitman-Walker Health services www.whitman-walker.org.
Source: Metro Weekly – www.metroweekly.com
