Media in the global north often describes the Caribbean as "one of the most homophobic" regions, where hostility toward the LGBTQI population is rooted in government, faith, society, and music. Today, the State of Florida now parallels the post-colonial anti-LGBTQI laws of the English-speaking Caribbean. These harmful laws limit educational and social support structures and make showcasing any gender, sexual orientation, gender expression, and sexuality diversity that's not heteronormative a criminal act. 

The community event “Free-Up Yuhself” highlights the history of Caribbean LGBTQ+ activism, migration, pride, and visibility in Florida and New York City, as well as how lived experiences of violence in the United States, and the continued persecution of LGBTQ+ communities in the Caribbean and its diaspora produce ongoing family separation and dislocation. Free-Up Yuhself features a panel discussion, storytelling,  performances, music, and food with conversations centering on Caribbean LGBTQ+ futurism, joy, mobilization, safety, and advocacy to protect queer and trans people as we collectively navigate the ongoing political climate of erasure. Speakers will share their personal stories of resilience and resistance to police violence, body positivity, accessing immigration resources, affirming healthcare, addressing anti-blackness, and cross-racial solidarity and healing. 

Free-Up Yuhself centers on the complex and intersectional realities of migration, racism, and anti-LGBTQ+  legislation on our communities' mental health, particularly access to immigration services, economic stability, education, and public safety.