Affirmation Brazil Hosting LGBT Suicide Prevention Symposium

by Luiz Correa

Affirmation Brazil has grown in unexpected ways. Year after year, more people join or seek to learn more about the organization. At the time of the first conference in Brazil, there were only two Affirmation Chapters in the country, one in São Paulo and another in Fortaleza. Today, there are many chapters throughout Brazil, including Brasilia, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, Recife, Bahia and small groups in several Brazilian cities.

The presidency of Affirmation Brazil is seeking to work to find LGBT Mormons in their moment of self-discovery and self-acceptance. Many of these people find themselves in a difficult place, trying to reconcile their lives being Mormon and gay, lesbian, bisexual, and/or transgender.

Too many LGBTQ Mormons struggle with depression and anxiety. Too many attempt suicide. Suicide prevention is a major goal that Affirmation is focusing on internationally this year. We’re seeking to help those who feel lost and without solutions to the difficulties they face.

Affirmation Brazil is rolling up their sleeves to do something in their country to help these people. We are hosting a symposium and inviting other organizations helping the LGBT population on September 25th in São Paulo. We will be working together to share experiences and ideas to help LGBT people and discuss public policies to combat suicide in Brazil.

For more information about this event, please visit our event on Facebook.