5 Things to Know - 9/16/2025
1. Show the Pride in Your Stride
The 2025 Charleston Pride Parade is almost here, and we’d love for you to march with us!
When: Saturday, October 11 at 9:00 a.m.
Where: King Street, Charleston (route begins at Ann & King and ends at Market & King)
You can sign up to be a walker or a float rider. The first 25 folks to register will get an AFFA or AFFA Action shirt. Space is limited, so snag your spot today!
2. LGBTQ+ Health, Inclusion, and Advocacy Summit 2025
This year’s virtual LGBTQ+ Health Summit brings together national leaders to dig into topics that matter, like trans health equity, family policy, mental health, HIV research, and more.
When: Thursday & Friday, Sept 25–26
Time: 8:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Eastern
Where: Livestream
Speakers include advocates, medical experts, attorneys, and educators working across health care, policy, and community care.
You can attend for continuing education credit, or join at a reduced rate if you don’t need accreditation. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about crucial aspects of LGBTQ+ health.
3. A Supreme Court Win for Trans Youth in SC
Earlier this month, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a transgender boy in South Carolina may continue using the boys’ restroom at his public high school while our legal challenge against the state’s discriminatory bathroom law moves forward.
A provision in South Carolina’s 2024 state budget mandates that public school students must use restrooms and locker rooms according to the gender assigned on their birth certificate, not their gender identity. This harmful rule targets transgender and nonbinary students and overrides local school district policies that have long supported inclusion.
AFFA is proud to be part of this legal battle alongside our partners at Public Justice and a brave Lowcountry student. We will keep fighting for trans and nonbinary youth across South Carolina, no matter what budget mandates say.
4. Interfaith Pride Gathering at KKBE
As Charleston Pride intersects with the Jewish festival of Sukkot this year, KKBE is opening its rainbow sukkah and inviting the entire interfaith community to join in celebration.
When: Wednesday, October 8, 5:30PM - 7:30PM
Where: KKBE Courtyard, Charleston
Sukkot is a holiday of open tents and gracious hospitality. Its message is clear: All Are Welcome. Join KKBE for food and drink, learn about the traditions of Sukkot, and connect with a community committed to a Charleston that is open and welcoming to all.
5. Share Your Voice: Focus Groups for TNB Research
Researchers at the College of Charleston and Boise State are conducting focus groups to better understand how stigma affects health outcomes for transgender and nonbinary (TNB) people in the Charleston area.
They are currently recruiting:
TNB adults (18+)
Parents and caregivers of TNB individuals
Healthcare providers for TNB patients
Sessions will be held via Zoom, and participants will receive a $50 gift card. The study is confidential and IRB-approved, with all identifying information removed.
If you’re interested in participating or sharing with someone who might be, check out the flyer for details or contact Dr. Shaon Lahiri at lahiris@cofc.edu.
