Legendary educator Virginia Uribe created the template for improving the lives of Gay and Lesbian youth in our public schools. Her groundbreaking creation of California’s Project 10 was the nation’s first school-based dropout prevention program, and safe space for students victimized by harassment.
Carrying the trailblazing torch that Uribe proudly held high, The Fairness Campaign, Kentucky’s oldest LGBTQ+ advocacy group, under the direction of Chris Hartman, is helping youth step out of the shadows, encouraging everyone to see the light of equality.
Their origin story began over 25 years ago in the Louisville metro area. A broad-based coalition of civic leaders, educators, and community activists joined forces to achieve this common goal… advancing LGBTQIA+ rights, encouraging inclusion, and imparting the confidence in young people to not hide, take pride, and fully realize their beautiful selves.
The Fairness Campaign has worked diligently throughout the state of Kentucky to foster enlightenment, understanding and awareness of issues concerning sexual orientation and gender identity. In areas where many do not have direct connection to diverse populations, Chris and The Fairness campaign center LGBTQ voices and experiences, the better to move beyond stereotypes and towards respect and appreciation. The Fairness Campaign isn’t about assimilation… but free expression.
The Fairness Campaign’s mission and mandate is clear: Eliminating discriminatory policies and abusive treatment directed at LGBTQ individuals. From bullying within the walls of educational institutions, to legislation that unfairly targets Queer communities, Fairness Campaign is always there to confront what’s patently unfair.
Systemic inequities are not only challenged by the leadership, but most importantly, by those most vulnerable… the youth themselves. The Fairness Campaign led the effort to pass Louisville’s historic Fairness Ordinance, the first in the state to ban legal discrimination against LGBTQ people; months later, the city of Lexington passed their historic Fairness Ordinance.
Over two decades, the work of The Fairness Campaign has helped enact anti-LGBTQ laws across the Commonwealth in 24 municipalities. And in a climate where attacks on marginalized groups are on the rise, on the streets and in the State House, their work is needed more than ever. But Chris Hartman knows that change can’t occur unless those most affected believe they have the will, and the power, to advocate for themselves.
Education leads to empowerment… self-esteem leads to self-determination. Youthful idealism leads to youth activism. And that’s the goal of Chris and The Fairness Project.
A society where all are respected? Chris Hartman truly believes… it’s only fair.
