Brave Space Alliance

Black-Owned Marketplace
May 16
2 min read

Black- and trans-led LGBTQ+ center on Chicago’s South Side offering affirming services, mutual aid, and community empowerment.

Founded in 2017 by LaSaia Wade, Brave Space Alliance (BSA) is the first Black- and trans-led LGBTQ+ center on Chicago’s South Side. BSA provides affirming, culturally competent, for-us-by-us resources, programming, and services for LGBTQ+ individuals, with a focus on Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities. Their mission is rooted in four pillars: Health, Housing, Food, and Identity.

BSA offers a range of services including a community pantry, The Dignity Suite (providing gender-affirming items), support groups, housing initiatives, and employment resources. The organization also engages in advocacy, mutual aid, and community organizing to uplift and empower marginalized voices.

Key Features & Benefits:

The Dignity Suite: Offers gender-affirming items such as makeup, wigs, and clothing to trans and gender-nonconforming individuals.
Community Pantry: Provides non-perishable food items and essentials to those in need.
Support Groups: Facilitates groups like Rose Petals (for trans women), Boi Talk (for trans men), and Fluidity (for non-binary individuals).
Housing Initiatives: Programs like the Jasmine Alexander Housing Initiative offer temporary supportive housing.

Use Cases:

LGBTQ+ Individuals: Seeking affirming and culturally competent services.
Trans and Nonbinary People: Accessing gender-affirming resources and support.
Community Members: In need of food, housing, or employment assistance.
Allies and Advocates: Looking to support and engage with LGBTQ+ community

Hours of Operation:

Office Hours: Monday – Thursday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST
Drop-In Hours: Monday – Thursday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM CST
Friday: Limited services available

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Visa
Mastercard
American Express
Discover
PayPal
Apple Pay
Google Pay
Shop Pay

Testimonials:

“Brave Space Alliance has been a lifeline for me. Their support and resources have made a world of difference.” — Community Member
“The Dignity Suite provided me with the confidence to express my true self.” — Program Participant
“BSA's commitment to the community is unparalleled. They truly understand and meet our needs.” — Local Advocate

Purchasing & Availability:

Website: https://www.bravespacealliance.org
Merchandise: Available through the Joy in Resistance Merch Store on their website.
Donations: Accepted online to support various programs and initiatives.
Services: Accessible at their Chicago location during operational hours.