Network Response to Governor Newsom’s Veto of SB 418

Governor Newsom has vetoed SB 418 – In response, the California LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network Director, Dannie Ceseña, issued the following statement: “It is with profound disappointment that we acknowledge the Governor’s veto of SB 418. This decision is a significant setback, but it does not diminish the immense effort of everyone who…

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Improving Tobacco Cessation Research for the Non-Binary Community: A Call for More Inclusive Data and Representation

By: Tania A. Ruedas Ortiz (she/they), We Breathe Communications Intern It was through the non-binary community that I began to understand myself more fully. Hearing others share their stories helped me embrace my identity and feel comfortable using she/they pronouns. That sense of belonging gave me the confidence to ask deeper questions—not just about myself,…

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Let’s Take a Smoke Break? Understanding Why Tobacco is Interwoven in Queer Nightlife – and How to Celebrate the Joy of Breathing

Cigarettes and vapes are being lit up across queer nightlife spaces – influencing queer culture, aesthetics, and connection. In this Spotlight On, OUT Against Big Tobacco LA dives into the complicated relationship between tobacco and queer joy, grief, and belonging. We are asking:  How can we honor the spaces that provide community support while protecting…

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Network Statement in Response to Gender-Affirming Care Program Closure at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles

We are devastated and outraged by the announcement that Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) will close its Center for Transyouth Health and Development and Gender-Affirming Care program effective July 22. In CHLA’s public statement claims the hospital had been “left with no viable path forward.” We ask: how is that possible in a state where laws…

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LGBTQ Network Director Letter to Immigrant Community

Our strength comes from our unity and our care for one another Dear Community, In times of uncertainty and fear, we want you to know that you are not alone. The CA LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network stands firmly with our immigrant community members and we want to ensure you have our unwavering support.…

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We Breathe: Fund LGBTQ+ Organizations

We Breathe: Fund LGBTQ+ Organizations  Since the Trump Administration released its horrific executive order calling for an end to LGBTQ+ research and contracts, many LGBTQ+-serving organizations have lost crucial funds to serve and support our most vulnerable communities. More than half of federal contacts that mention the words LGBTQ+ and transgender have been terminated since…

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CA LGBTQ HHS Network Responds to House Passage of Reconciliation Bill that Strips Healthcare from TGI Californians

SACRAMENTO, CA – The California LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network released the following statement from Director Dannie Ceseña in response to the House passing a reconciliation bill following late-night debate and an early morning vote: “A stark reality faces approximately 36,000 transgender, gender non-conforming, and intersex (TGI) Californians who depend on Medi-Cal: their access…

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California LGBTQ+ HHS Network Responds to May Revise Budget Cuts to Health Programs for LGBTQ+ Californians

SACRAMENTO, CA – The California LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network is deeply alarmed by the proposed budget cuts to vital health programs within the California Department of Public Health’s Office of Health Equity. These funds directly support LGBTQ+-serving organizations and reproductive health efforts across the state. Dannie Ceseña, Director of the California LGBTQ Health…

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