Introducing The Mpox Issue – Strengthen, Inform, Protect
The article is from our special issue on Mpox. You can access the full issue here.
I’m thrilled to share an important initiative that’s close to my heart and essential to our community. Today, we’re launching The Mpox Issue, a comprehensive digital magazine designed to address the ways mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) impacts the LGBTQ+ community. Through education, advocacy, and outreach, we aim to help every member of our community stay informed, empowered, and safe.
Why does this matter? Because queer health matters, and in today’s world it matters even more. Mpox has disproportionately affected the LGBTQ+ community, particularly queer men, trans people, and other groups who already face health disparities and stigma. But this is more than an issue of disease—it’s an issue of visibility, inclusion, and care. When queer health is overlooked or tied to shame, our community bears the burden. This project is about challenging that, head-on.
Here’s what we’ve been working on for you. Our latest issue includes ten in-depth articles that unpack mpox from every angle. We’re covering everything from prevention tips and a breakdown of mpox variants to how to remove stigma from how we talk about queer-specific health risks. We’ll even help you protect yourself at a very personal level—yes, we’ve got a guide on cleaning your sex toys because your health is worth that level of care.
But we’re not stopping there. Through influential social content, videos featuring trusted voices from the LGBTQ+ community, and even city-wide billboards, we’re making mpox conversations positive, accessible, and impossible to ignore. After all, health isn’t just about survival – it’s about thriving unapologetically.
At a time when queer rights and healthcare access are under relentless attack, none of us can afford to be passive. Together, we can build a world that sees our health, our voices, and our lives as truly equal and worthy of respect, investment, and care.
Thank you for being part of this community. Stay safe, informed, and empowered.
With solidarity and care,
Missy Spears
Executive Director, Queer Kentucky
The article is from our special issue on Mpox. You can access the full issue here.
