Who’s Behind the Meaningful Care Conference?

Brief History

The Meaningful Care Conference began in 2008 and was initially put on by a group of queer providers in the Portland Metro Area who wanted an opportunity to connect and learn how to provide better care to their LGBTQ+ patients. Over time, the conference has expanded and aims to include those who may be less familiar with this work. In recent years, our understanding of intersectional identities and the importance of centering lived-experience has led to an increased focus on equity, justice, and uplifting marginalized voices. As a part of that ongoing commitment, for 2024 we have partnered with Black & Beyond the Binary Collective (B3C). Black & Beyond the Binary Collective builds the leadership, healing, and safety for transgender, queer, nonbinary, two-spirit, and intersex (TQN2SI+) Oregonians with a focus on Black & Indigenous identities. We envision a future that gives power back to our communities, celebrates self-expression, and preserves dignity, and joy; a future that can center Black queer and Trans communities living fully liberated lives.

The Organizers

Black & Beyond the Binary Collective is the lead agency (leading organization) on the Meaningful Care Conference. B3C provides the big-picture vision for the conference and its content.

The Oregon AETC provides logistics support and handles the smaller details.

Cascade AIDS Project is the fiscal sponsor for the conference.

The Planning Committee

The Meaningful Care Conference is organized by a collaboration between agencies and individuals across Oregon who provide care and services to TQN2SI+ individuals.