UPDATE: A powerful holiday card campaign is gaining momentum, aiming to support LGBTQ+ individuals shunned by their families. Launched by Carolyn Pinta of the Pinta Pride Project, this initiative is set to send more than 50,000 cards this year, marking a dramatic increase from the 10,000 cards sent in 2023.
The campaign, inspired by the Home for the Holidays Facebook group, provides a lifeline for those unable to return home during the holiday season. Since its inception, Pinta has transformed the project into a nationwide phenomenon, with card-writing parties hosted across the country. “People start reaching out in August,” Pinta shared, highlighting the eagerness of participants to engage.
Last year, over 800 writers from all 50 states and several countries contributed, showcasing an outpouring of allyship and love. Families are incorporating card-writing into their Thanksgiving traditions, sending photos of their efforts to Pinta. For many, each card represents a lifeline, a reminder that compassion still exists in a time of rising cruelty and chaos.
Why This Matters: In a world where many LGBTQ+ individuals face rejection from their families, receiving a card can bring a sense of belonging and hope. Pinta’s initiative not only provides tangible support but also fosters connections among individuals who may feel isolated. “A card is a small thing… but it says: I see you. I support you,” one participant noted.
As the campaign gears up for the 2024 holiday season, anticipation is high. Organizations, including the Alpha Phi sorority at Miami University, are joining in, demonstrating the collective effort to spread kindness. Photos of tables overflowing with cards flood social media, showcasing the community’s commitment to uplifting those in need.
This heartfelt movement is more than just a card; it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. In times of adversity, these gestures remind us of our capacity for kindness and connection.
What’s Next: Pinta encourages everyone to participate in this uplifting initiative. As the holiday season approaches, the campaign is poised to create even more impact, bringing together voices of support in a powerful show of solidarity.
Join the conversation on social media and consider sending a card or participating in a local card-writing event. Together, we can make this holiday season brighter for those who need it most.
