Organized by The Vinguard
Support Queer Winemakers and Communities
Building a More Inclusive Wine Culture, One Glass at a Time
Hi, I'm Louie Seamus, and I need your help.
Since 2018, The Vinguard has been challenging patriarchy, white supremacy, homo- and transphobia, and discrimination against historically marginalized communities in the wine industry. But we need to do more. Today, I'm asking for your help with one of our most impactful programs: Wine Flair.
LGBTQIA+ people are facing unprecedented attacks.
- According to the ACLU, Florida is, as of 2025, the least safe state for LGBTQIA people in the country.
- Over 200 anti-LGBTQIA bills have been filed in Texas so far this year, and transgender and gender-nonconforming people are being disproportionately targeted by hate-fueled violence. GLAAD tracked at least 26 injuries and one fatality. Compared to last year, attacks on trans people are up 14%.
- North Carolina passed S.B. 442, allowing anti-LGBTQIA parents to foster or get custody of LGBTQIA children.
- Tennessee was the first state to restrict drag performances in public spaces.
As such, we're even more determined to expand our ground-breaking Wine Flair event to states where our community needs visible support most: Florida, Texas, North Carolina, Louisiana and Tennessee. In collaboration with Co-Fermented, Wine Flair events celebrate LGBTQIA+ winemakers and distributors through intimate tastings that bring together wine lovers, makers, and advocates. Your donations help make these events happen by covering transportation and accommodations for winemakers, venue fees, and organizing costs.
We're seeking $20,000 by December 31st to fund four critical events, including two in Florida this winter.
Every Wine Flair event we’ve held, from San Francisco to Nashville, has been magical. We’ve heard from attendees how empowering it is to meet queer winemakers who are living their dreams. The winemakers feel seen and appreciated like no other tasting.
“Wine Flair continues to show me that community matters. We keep showing up in different places and are reminded of the unique bond we all share in this industry and beyond.
-Luke Wylde, Winemaker, Lares and Statera Cellars
That's the power of visibility!
Why Your Support Matters
Every Wine Flair event:
- Amplifies queer voices in an industry that has historically silenced them
- Provides economic support to LGBTQIA+ winemakers facing discrimination
- Creates safe spaces for our community to gather and celebrate
As Molly Ringe from Molly's Bottle Shop says: "LGBTQIA+ rights are human rights! By being visible supporters of events that focus on this vibrant part of our community, we manifest and celebrate a future where diversity is celebrated."
When legislators try to erase us, we respond by taking up more space.
Your donation—whether it's $5 or $500—funds joy in the face of oppression and helps us model what an inclusive world looks like.
Thank you for being part of this movement.
— Louie Seamus, Founder, The Vinguard
- C
54 supporters
guidestar.org/profile/85-0755779