We Love Alison Bechdel
In a heartfelt gesture to support LGBTQ+ youth, acclaimed cartoonist Alison Bechdel has donated a collection of her signed books to Outright Vermont’s annual Fire Truck Pull fundraiser this Saturday, September 30, 2023. This donation aims to support LGBTQ+ youth and assist Outright in achieving its record fundraising target of $200,000 - $75,000 more than any previous year.
Included in this exclusive bundle are some of Bechdel's most renowned titles:
The Essential Dykes to Watch Out For
Fun Home
Are You My Mother
The Secret to Superhuman Strength
Not only will the lucky winner get their hands on these treasured volumes, but Bechdel will personally mail the books, adding an intimate touch to this special contribution.
“I’ve been around a long time, and have seen a lot of changes occur for LGBTQ people over the decades. My books are in a way about those changes, so that’s why I’m donating them. Lately, some of the progress we’ve made seems to be at risk. But Outright Vermont is doing an amazing job of keeping us moving forward. I’m so proud of them, and of the incredible LGBTQ youth who are the future,” said Bechdel.
Here's How to Participate:
For a chance to win, supporters need only donate $5 or more to the Fire Truck Pull via the website at outrightvt.org and their name will be added to a raffle drawing that will take place at the Fire Truck Pull. Supporters have 24 hours to get in on this opportunity. The window for contributions starts at noon on Thursday, September 28, and concludes at noon on Friday, September 30, 2023. The winner will be informed of their prize by an Outright staff member the week following the event. Every donation during this period not only brings a supporter closer to claiming this literary treasure but also brings Outright closer to their goal, ensuring continuous support for the LGBTQ+ youth in the state.
With Bechdel’s generous donation and the community's continuous backing, the Fire Truck Pull promises to be both impactful and memorable, with lots of queer joy to go around for all.
Dana Kaplan, Executive Director of Outright Vermont, shared, "We are overwhelmed by Alison’s generosity and thoughtfulness. Her books have touched many in our community and around the world. This donation is a testament to her commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ youths. With the community's help, we're hopeful to meet our record fundraising goal this year."
Here’s Why the Record Fundraising Goal:
The ambitious fundraising target mirrors the urgency of our times, as LGBTQ+ youth
face heightened vulnerabilities amidst the nation's organized anti-trans and queer campaigns.
"Our objective is clear, working alongside LGBTQ+ youth we will continue to have a robust response to the tidal wave of hate that’s sweeping the nation and seeping into Vermont communities. The $200,000 goal is a signal that we won’t back down and LGBTQ+ youth will continue to lead us forward as we bring more magic to youth in every corner of the state,” Executive Director, Dana Kaplan, states.
Understanding the urgent demands, LGBTQ+ youth organizers, backed by Outright, have initiated various campaigns to foster more supportive schools and communities. Concurrently, Outright has expanded its family programs and its social and support groups across the state. To broaden their reach, Outright’s training and education offerings now feature online options and recently announced a webinar series in collaboration with the Vermont Higher Education Collaborative to support education professionals who aim to improve school climate and support LGBTQ+ youth.
“Together, the Vermont community is not just pulling a fire truck. They're pulling together for love, acceptance, and the right for everyone to be who they are,” says Kaplan.
The event is on Saturday, September 30 at the Top of Church Street, Burlington, kicking off at 11 am with a block party and teams will begin pulling at 12 pm. For more information about how to participate or to make a donation, supporters can go to outrightvt.org.