March 16–20, 2026
Each year, National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week offers an opportunity to reflect on the state of health and well-being across our communities—and to consider the role each of us plays in shaping a more equitable system of care.
For LGBTQ+ individuals, health has never been solely about access. It has also been about trust, safety, and whether systems are designed to recognize and respond to our lived experiences. While there has been meaningful progress over time, disparities persist—particularly in mental health outcomes, access to affirming care, and the availability of providers who understand the full scope of LGBTQ+ identities.
These challenges are not abstract. They are felt in very real ways—when someone delays care because they are unsure how they will be treated, when a provider lacks the knowledge to offer appropriate support, or when individuals navigate systems that were not built with them in mind.
At Stonewall Columbus, we understand that health is deeply connected to community. The presence of affirming spaces, trusted relationships, and accessible information all contribute to better outcomes. While we are not a direct healthcare provider, we play an important role in helping to connect individuals to resources, partners, and programs that support overall well-being.
Through our CARES program and partnerships with local organizations, we work to connect community members to critical services—whether that is access to affirming care, support resources, or simply a starting point for navigating systems that can often feel overwhelming. In many cases, that first connection can make all the difference.
National LGBTQ Health Awareness Week is also a reminder that improving outcomes requires collective effort. It calls on healthcare systems to continue evolving, on organizations to deepen collaboration, and on individuals to engage in their own care and in support of others.
For some, that may mean scheduling a long-overdue appointment or seeking out an affirming provider. For others, it may mean learning more about the barriers LGBTQ+ individuals face within healthcare systems or supporting organizations working to address those gaps.
Health equity is not achieved in a single moment or through a single initiative. It is built over time—through intentional action, sustained commitment, and a shared understanding that everyone deserves care that is both accessible and affirming.
As we recognize this week, we do so with a continued commitment to strengthening connections, expanding access, and supporting the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals across Central Ohio.
