BEL Professional Network

Who Is Part of the Network?

The BEL Professional Network includes professionals and organizations across a wide range of fields.

Public Health and Research

Public health professionals, researchers, epidemiologists, health equity specialists, university faculty, qualitative researchers, and community-based research partners.

Medical and Wellness Professionals

Physicians, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, registered dietitians, pharmacists, reproductive health professionals, wellness practitioners, and other healthcare providers.

Mental Health Professionals

Therapists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists, trauma specialists, EMDR practitioners, support-group facilitators, and healing professionals.

Legal Professionals

Attorneys and legal advocates specializing in family law, estate planning, employment law, civil rights, nonprofit law, business law, and other areas affecting our community.

Financial and Business Professionals

Financial advisors, accountants, tax professionals, insurance professionals, mortgage specialists, business consultants, entrepreneurs, and wealth-building experts.

Education and Academic Partners

University faculty, researchers, internship coordinators, graduate students, educational institutions, and community-engaged scholars.

Community and Corporate Partners

Nonprofit organizations, foundations, healthcare companies, small businesses, employee resource groups, and organizations committed to community impact.

How Network Members Support BEL

Members of the BEL Professional Network may choose to:

Facilitate workshops or virtual discussions
Participate in panels and conferences
Accept community referrals
Mentor students, fellows, or emerging professionals
Review or support BEL research projects
Collaborate on grants and community initiatives
Contribute articles, resources, or educational content
Participate in media interviews
Support health fairs and community events
Provide professional services or consultations
Help expand access to affirming resources.

Participation is flexible. Network members may select the opportunities that align with their expertise, availability, and interests.

Why This Network Matters

Black lesbians and Black queer women frequently face barriers when searching for affirming healthcare, mental health services, legal support, professional development, financial education, and other essential resources.

The BEL Professional Network helps close those gaps by creating stronger connections between our community and professionals who are prepared to serve, educate, and collaborate.

Through this network, BEL is building a future where our community can more easily find:

Affirming and culturally responsive care
Trusted professional referrals
Educational and career opportunities
Research that reflects our lived experiences
Mentorship and leadership development
Resources that support long-term health, stability, and success

Join the BEL Professional Network

We welcome professionals, researchers, organizations, and community partners who are committed to supporting Black lesbians and Black queer women.

You do not have to identify as a Black lesbian or Black queer woman to participate, but you must demonstrate a genuine commitment to affirming, respectful, and culturally responsive service.

Professionals may be asked to provide:

Name and professional credentials
Organization or business name
Professional category and areas of expertise
Website and contact information
States or regions served
Virtual or in-person availability
Licensing information, when applicable
Short professional biography
Headshot or organization logo
Ways you are interested in supporting BEL

Areas of participation may include:

Speaking or facilitating
Mentoring
Accepting referrals
Reviewing research
Collaborating on grants
Providing educational resources
Participating in events
Supporting media or advocacy efforts

Interested in joining the network?