By Connect Staff ・Photos provided by The Lavender Closet
Labels. That is one of many hang-ups for people who don’t want to affirm the existence of transgender, gender non-conforming, or gender-expansive people. It’s labels that drive people to discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals. Historically, we are taught to think in binary terms and that everything should fit in a specific box. We have learned, however, that is not how life works.
While there have been modest strides made toward inclusiveness and acceptance, the simple act of shopping for clothing can become a debilitating activity for someone who may not have a safe place to shop. There’s a new program in Rutherford County trying to alleviate that stress, even if just a little.
The Lavender Closet Mutual Aid Project — The Lavender Closet Project for short — is a community-driven project that aims to provide affirming, inclusive clothing for LGBTQ people in the Murfreesboro/Rutherford County area at no cost.
Dr. Eric Hughes, founder and organizer of The Lavender Closet, said he started the program in response to the backlash LGTBQ+ people have faced recently in Murfreesboro and Rutherford County, including the ban on the pride festival, book censorship, and the decency ordinance which targeted the LGBTQ+ community. “I felt that the community needed a community project that was affirming,” he said.
The Lavender Closet Project has partnered with a local LGBTQ+-affirming church for the collection and storage of clothing items. They have a specific donation day each month and they will share the dates on Facebook or you can reach out via email at lavenderclosetproject@gmail.com for specific information about dates and times. Currently, they accept donations of new or gently used shorts, pants, or bottoms; tops, shirts, and blouses; dresses and skirts; and accessories. They do not accept underwear, socks, or similar items.
They have a clothing giveaway day each month, typically the third or fourth Saturday from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. There is hope to expand service one day. Dr. Hughes said, “We are honored to be serving the community as we can. Ideally, we would like to eventually add more giveaway days based on need. We are also always looking for community partners to help us promote the project and reach those who may need our services.”
Dr. Hughes shared they are honored to be part of this welcoming community of LGBTQ+ folks and their allies. ”We appreciate the outpouring of support for The Lavender Closet Project and would like to thank anyone who has donated or otherwise supported the project.“
For more information on donating to or utilizing the services of The Lavender Closet Project, visit https://bit.ly/4cE6le7 or email lavenderclosetproject@gmail.com.
