FAQs

What is the purpose of our nonprofit organization? 

Educating, empowering and engaging in open dialogues that challenge LGBTQIAA+ prejudices.

Who does the name Sheba represent?

In the context of the nonprofit organization "Pride of Sheba'' and its core objective of "Educating, Empowering, and Engaging in Open Dialogue that Challenges LGBTQ+ Prejudices," the name "Sheba" represents a symbol of wisdom, enlightenment, and a journey of discovery. This parallels the biblical figure Queen Sheba's story of seeking knowledge and engaging in dialogue with King Solomon to gain wisdom and understanding. In this context, "Sheba'' symbolizes the organization's commitment to promoting education, empowerment, and open dialogue to challenge prejudices against the LGBTQ+ community. The use of the name implies a dedication to learning, growth, and the pursuit of greater understanding, much like Queen Sheba's quest for wisdom in the Bible.

What do the letters stand for LGBTQIAA+?

The acronym LGBTQIA2S+ is an inclusive and evolving term that represents a diverse spectrum of sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. Here's a breakdown of what each letter and symbol typically stands for: 

L: Lesbian - A woman who is attracted to other women. 

G: Gay - A term often used to describe men who are attracted to other men, but it can also refer to individuals of any gender who are attracted to people of the same gender. 

B: Bisexual - A person who is attracted to individuals of both their own gender and other genders. 

T: Transgender - A person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. 

Q: Queer or Questioning - "Queer" is a term that has been reclaimed by many people as a way to describe non-heteronormative sexual orientations or non-cisnormative gender identities. "Questioning" is used to represent individuals who are still exploring and questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

I: Intersex - Intersex individuals are born with physical or genetic characteristics that do not fit typical definitions of male or female. 

A: Asexual - A person who experiences little or no sexual attraction to others, or has a lack of interest in sexual activity. 

2S: Two-Spirit - This term is specific to some Indigenous cultures in North America and represents a person who embodies both masculine and feminine qualities. It is not widely used outside of these cultural contexts. 

+: The "+" symbol signifies the recognition of other identities and orientations that may not be explicitly represented in the acronym. 

It shows a commitment to inclusivity and acknowledging the diversity of experiences within the LGBTQIA2S+ community. It's important to note that language and terminology continue to evolve, and some individuals may use variations of this acronym to reflect their own experiences and identities. It's essential to respect people's self-identifications and use the terminology they prefer when discussing these topics.

How can I support our community and make a difference in the life of an LGBTQAA+ person?

You can support our community by: 

Volunteering: Offering your time and skills to local organizations and community projects. Volunteering is a hands-on way to contribute to the well-being of our community. 

Donating: Making financial contributions to nonprofit organizations, charities, and community programs. Your donations can help fund vital services and initiatives. 

Shopping Locally: Supporting local businesses, artisans, and farmers. Buying locally not only boosts our local economy but also fosters a sense of community. 

Participating in Community Events: Attending and engaging in local events, fairs, festivals, and meetings. Your participation can help build a strong sense of community. 

Mentorship: Offering your expertise to mentor young people or newcomers to our community. Sharing your knowledge can have a significant impact on their lives. 

Advocacy: Advocating for positive change and supporting initiatives that benefit our community, whether it's related to social issues, environmental concerns, or public policies. 

Neighborhood Watch: Participating in or supporting local neighborhood watch programs to enhance community safety. 

Education and Skill Building: Offering workshops or classes to teach valuable skills to community members. This can include things like financial literacy, computer skills, or gardening. 

Environmental Initiatives: Getting involved in local environmental projects, such as clean-up efforts, tree planting, or conservation programs. 

Supporting Vulnerable Populations: Assisting vulnerable or marginalized groups within our community, such as the elderly, children, or people experiencing homelessness. 

Promoting Inclusivity: Working to make our community more inclusive and welcoming to people from all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs. 

Community Fundraising: Organizing or participating in fundraising events to support community projects, schools, or charities. 

Economic Development: Supporting initiatives that foster economic growth and job creation in our community. 

Civic Engagement: Participating in local government meetings and elections to have a say in our community's development.
Spreading Awareness: Using your voice and social media to raise awareness about local issues, events, and opportunities for involvement. 

Remember, supporting our community is not limited to one specific action! You can choose the ways that align best with your interests, skills, and resources. Even small contributions can collectively make a significant difference in the well-being of our community.

Is Pride of Sheba a 501(c)(3) nonprofit?

Pride of Sheba is a registered nonprofit organization with the Corporate Affairs Commission in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, bearing registration number CAC/IT/NO 101994. However, it's important to note that the specific tax-exempt status of 501(c)(3) is a classification under the United States Internal Revenue Code, and it may not apply to organizations registered in other countries. The tax-exempt status of nonprofit organizations can vary from one country to another. So, while Pride of Sheba may be recognized as a nonprofit in Nigeria, it may not have the same tax-exempt status as a 501(c)(3) organization in the United States.

Whom do I contact for an interview request or to speak at my company/school/conference/community event?

To request an interview or to invite a speaker from "Pride of Sheba" to your company, school, conference, or community event, you can contact the organization via the following channels: 

Website: Visit our official website where you can find contact information and details about our team. 

Email: Send us an email to express your request for an interview or speaking engagement. Social Media: Reach out to us through our official social media accounts (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram) by sending a direct message or inquiring about contact information. 

Phone: You can call us at the phone number provided on our website or in our materials to discuss interview requests or speaking engagements. 

Mailing Address: If needed, you can send formal requests to our physical mailing address. When getting in touch, please provide us with the necessary details about your event, the purpose of the interview or speaking engagement, the date, and location, as well as any specific requirements or expectations you have for the event. This will assist us in considering your request and responding appropriately.

How can I get involved?

You can help by starting your own fundraiser or you can dedicate your birthday, wedding, marathon and special events to Pride of Sheba; you can donate your airline miles, send books, clothing, medicine, and other in-kind donations to Pride of Sheba.

Can I join your team?

We're always looking for someone to help our team: interns, volunteers and more! Please check on our website for any opportunities.

What specific challenges do LGBTQ+ individuals face in Nigeria?

LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria face a range of challenges, largely due to the societal and legal attitudes toward homosexuality and gender nonconformity. Some of the specific challenges include: 

Criminalization: Same-sex sexual activity is criminalized in Nigeria, with harsh penalties, including imprisonment. The Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2014 prohibits same-sex marriage and the registration of LGBTQ+ organizations. 

Discrimination and Stigma: Homosexuality is widely stigmatized in Nigerian society. LGBTQ+ individuals often face discrimination, rejection by their families, and social exclusion. 

Violence: Hate crimes and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals are not uncommon. They can face physical and verbal abuse, harassment, and even murder. Perpetrators often act with impunity. 

Mental Health and Psychological Impact: Societal and legal discrimination can lead to severe mental health issues among LGBTQ+ individuals. Many experience anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. 

HIV/AIDS: The stigmatization of LGBTQ+ individuals makes it difficult for them to access healthcare services, including HIV prevention and treatment, which disproportionately affects this community. 

Lack of Legal Protections: There are no legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in Nigeria. This means LGBTQ+ individuals have little legal recourse when they face discrimination. 

Social Isolation: Many LGBTQ+ individuals live in secrecy and isolation due to fear of backlash, making it challenging to find supportive communities and build social networks. 

Exile and Asylum: Some LGBTQ+ Nigerians are forced to flee the country to escape persecution and seek asylum in more LGBTQ+-friendly countries. 

Lack of Representation: There is minimal representation of LGBTQ+ issues in the media or public discourse, which perpetuates stereotypes and misunderstanding. It's important to note that the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals can vary based on factors like location, socioeconomic status, and family support. Some LGBTQ+ activists and organizations in Nigeria work tirelessly to advocate for change, provide support, and raise awareness about the challenges and discrimination faced by the community.

What resources are available for LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria?

The Initiative for Equal Rights (TIERs): TIERs is a Nigerian organization that advocates for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. They provide legal support, health services, and community outreach programs. Bisi Alimi Foundation: Founded by LGBTQ+ activist Bisi Alimi, this organization works to promote equality and inclusion for LGBTQ+ people in Nigeria. They provide support, education, and advocacy. 

Queer Alliance Nigeria: This is an advocacy group and support network for LGBTQ+ individuals. They organize events, offer peer support, and work on increasing visibility and acceptance. 

Pride of Sheba: Pride of Sheba is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating, empowering, and engaging in open dialogue that challenges LGBTQ+ prejudices. You can find more information on their website: www.prideofsheba.org. 

Legal Aid: Some legal aid organizations offer support and assistance for LGBTQ+ individuals facing legal challenges related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Online Communities: Due to the risk of physical harm and discrimination, many LGBTQ+ Nigerians find support and community through online platforms, such as social media groups and forums. 

Allies and Supportive Friends and Family: Many LGBTQ+ individuals find support and understanding from allies, friends, and family members who are accepting of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

International Organizations: Some international human rights organizations and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups may provide support, resources, and assistance to LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria. 

Please note that the availability of these resources and organizations may vary, and individuals should exercise caution and prioritize their safety when seeking support and resources.

Where does my donation go?

When you make a donation to our organization, your contribution goes towards various important areas:
Programs and Services: A significant portion of your donation directly supports the programs and services we offer. These programs could encompass advocacy efforts, educational initiatives, healthcare services, or community support. 

Administrative Costs: Some of the funds are allocated to cover administrative expenses, including staff salaries, office space, and operational costs. This ensures the smooth functioning of our organization. 

Fundraising Expenses: We allocate a portion of donations to cover fundraising expenses, such as marketing, outreach efforts, and fundraising campaigns. These efforts help us attract more donations to further our mission. 

Research and Advocacy: Donations also support our research, policy advocacy, and awareness campaigns. These initiatives are crucial for advancing our mission and creating a positive impact. 

Overhead and Miscellaneous Costs: Some of the funds are used for overhead and miscellaneous expenses, including utilities, insurance, and legal fees. 

We are committed to financial transparency, and we provide detailed information about how donations are used on our website, in annual reports, and in response to donor inquiries. Your support is instrumental in helping us achieve our goals and make a difference in our community. Thank you for your generosity!