THREE QUESTIONS WITH OUT IN LC
Amalia Greene (she/they), Out in L.C.
Q: Explore Lincoln City is very excited to welcome Out In L.C. to town. Can you provide an overview of Out In L.C. and its mission? What inspired you to create this organization in Lincoln City?
A: Out in L.C. is a community project that uses visibility, representation, and inclusion to enthusiastically welcome LGBTQ+ community members and visitors to Lincoln City. We do this by hosting an
online business directory, distributing decals to local businesses so that they can display their support in their windows, and networking to create opportunities for education and connection.
I was inspired to initiate this project because of the comfort I experience when I visit communities that are overtly welcoming, and the desire to live in one! Lincoln City is home to a thriving community of LGBTQ+ people and allies, but it can be hard to find if you don’t know where to look. Our aim is to make it easy for locals and visitors to feel comfortable here and find inclusive spaces, events, and services quickly.
This project was also inspired by my work as a mental health therapist. Obvious signs of inclusion (like our logo) help LGBTQ+ people feel safe, which is fundamental for mental and emotional wellness. And when LGBTQ+ people are emotionally and mentally supported, they can engage in the community in a holistic and joyful way, making our whole community even stronger.
Q: How can our industry partners support Out In L.C.?
A: Any business or organization in Lincoln City is welcome to apply to join our directory by going to
outinlc.com. We also invite you to follow us on Instagram (
@outinlc) and let us know if you are hosting any events or promotions geared towards the LGBTQ+ community so that we can spread the word. We can be contacted through our website or by emailing us at outinlctogether@gmail.com.
Q: How else can Lincoln City businesses foster a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ people beyond supporting Out In L.C.?
A: Cultivating an inclusive space is a great place to start! This means hosting events geared towards the LGBTQ+ community (queer game nights, queer coffee, etc.) and having LGBTQ+ identified performers or artists in your space. It is also meaningful to hire diverse staff and to train staff to be culturally aware of issues around gender and sexuality. But every business is different. If you are uncertain about how your business can be inclusive and welcoming, please reach out. We’re happy to offer consultation and brainstorm with business owners - no question is too big or too small. As long as your desire is to be enthusiastically inclusive and welcoming, we’re here to help.
