Dear Friends, Family, and Allies,

Due to the growing dangers facing LGBTQ people (as well as many other vulnerable and marginalized groups) in the US, I have made the difficult decision to relocate to Europe and need your help to remain here while I apply for my visa. (I am not comfortable disclosing exactly where for safety and privacy reasons.)

It has been painful to watch the US, my home country, descend to a place of unprecedented darkness in my lifetime.

Please consider donating to my relocation fund to help me stay safe and thrive in this new environment. I cannot do this alone.

I will be working with a lawyer on my visa procedure, and as part of it, I'm required to start a bank account with a certain amount of money in it. This will of course allow me to find work here and create new opportunities. I will also be finishing my graduate school writing program from here if all goes to plan. Additionally, some costs will arise related to securing housing.

I am asking for my community's support to make enough a buffer that can keep me here, so the goal is $20k.

It goes without saying that people who know me well know that living in Europe has long been on my list of dreams -- and that it's unfortunate that this decision come with a certain kind of urgency that feels increasingly inescapable. We are all worthy of a future that feels as safe as we can make it, especially the most vulnerable among us.

I am grateful for the love I receive from my communities. It sustains me, keeps me creating new work, keeps me inspired, feeds my soul, and allows me to stay focused on being a light in the world. Thank you for your enduring love and support.

With love and gratitude,

Michelle