Hazel Edwards is acting executive director of Galaei (Source: galaeiqtbipoc.org).
Galaei is a queer, trans, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (QTBIPOC) Radical Social Justice organization on a mission to build community power through organizing, education, wellness and direct support.
Hazel Edwards, acting executive director, talked to Access Network about the organization’s roots and how it serves the QTBIPOC community.
“Galaei was founded under the revolutionary leadership of founder David Acosta. Formerly the Gay and Lesbian AIDS Education Initiative, it opened its doors in 1989,” Edwards said.
“It was founded to confront the pain, hurt, and fear resulting from the loss of LGBTQ+ Latinx lives to the HIV/AIDS crisis.”
As the largest Queer and Trans-operated organization north of Vine Street in Philadelphia, Galaei pride itself on employing a syndemic approach and metric to serve the community.
Galaei’s programs include Youth Programming (SPLAT), Prevention and Education Programming (POP), and Trans services (TINGS).
“All of these programs provide lifesaving linkages to resources and care. We are proud to be a unifying force that mobilizes the marginalized QTBIPOC peoples in Philadelphia with our primary and centering force being love, care, and affirmation for QTBIPOC,” she explained.
On the biggest challenges Galaei faces, she said, “Sustainable funding is an ongoing challenge, as well as, the state of the current political climate — especially for organizations led by and for QTBIPOC.”
She added, “Our organization currently is staffed entirely by Black trans women. Given the climate, the emotional toll we carry into our work is significant. The community members we serve directly mirror our own identities and shared experiences.
“We’re constantly navigating the trauma and burnout that comes with serving communities in crisis, while trying to ensure our team and volunteers are cared for too. Systemic barriers — like anti-trans legislation, funding cuts, housing instability, and healthcare inequity — creates these issues.”
On what she enjoys the most about the work she does, Edwards said, “This work definitely takes a toll mentally and emotionally. But there’s nothing more meaningful than showing up for my own community. I’m a Black trans woman from Philly. I grew up in poverty and experienced homelessness as a young person. But our hardships don’t define us.
“What changed my life was seeing people in leadership who looked like me — who held the same identities and still made space for joy, power and care. That inspired me, and now I want to be that for others.”
As acting director of Galaei, Edwards’ said her mission is to uplift the voices in the community and to provide the resources they need.
“I’m here to help ensure we all have access to the basic necessities and long-term support to live, grow, and succeed. That’s how we build a better future for QTBIPOC folks.”
How can the community get involved?
Edwards said there are many ways to get involved. They are always looking for volunteers to help manage their space and support events. Donations are also deeply appreciated, and help grown and sustain Galaei’s programming.
“And we need folks to help amplify our work: share our content, come to our events, bring your people into our space, and most importantly show up for QTBIPOC folks in your everyday life!” she said.
This fall, Galaei is launching a series of events beginning in September which is designed to uplift and support the QTBIPOC community through unapologetic joy and collective action. Edwards said the events will include fundraisers, youth-centered gatherings and adult-focused community spaces.
Full details will be announced soon. Follow @GalaeiPhilly on Instagram and visit GalaeiQTBIPOC.org to stay updated.
