Hi, I’m Megan, a queer, trans woman. Until last week I worked as Trans Program Manager for the Pride Center of Vermont. Along with five other coworkers I was abruptly fired with only 24 hours notice and no guarantee from the Executive Director or Board that any of us would be paid for time already worked and no other compensation. The sudden closure of the Pride Center with no warning left community members without access to vital services and staff members in financial jeopardy.

I have had the honor to be teammates with so many passionate, dedicated and hard working folks who have all been committed to supporting, uplifting and advocating for LGBTQIA+ Vermonters. Throughout my time in the Trans Program I have consistently pushed PCVT leadership for transparency, loudly advocated for trans and QTPOC folks to be centered in their work as the most marginalized and done everything I could within a tiny budget to provide services and support to the community.

The actions of board and leadership to abruptly terminate all staff with no warning and no time to develop continuity plans to keep vital support services available is unforgivable. Going forward I will be doing my best on my own time to continue to provide what support I can to the community I love.

I am asking for help to get me through the next few months as I look for a new job and navigate the sudden loss of income. It’s hard to ask when so many are in need and I’m truly humbled by the outpouring of love from friends and community members Thank you