Jefferson and Ellie Team up with UHP!

Our Story: Jefferson Miami & Ellie Lei – Advocates for LGBTQ+ Health and Healing

We’re Jefferson Miami and Ellie Lei, entertainers, community advocates, and proud members of South Florida’s LGBTQ+ scene. Like so many in our community, our journeys have been shaped by struggle and trauma. Jefferson comes from a past of domestic abuse, and Ellie, an immigrant, has overcome the challenges of finding belonging and safety in a new place. These experiences—our personal stories of survival—connect us deeply to the broader struggles of our LGBTQ+ family.

Why We’re Here

Our gay community has always been a beacon of resilience, but it’s no secret that the trauma we endure—whether it’s abuse, societal rejection, or the complexities of our identities—leaves lasting scars. Many of us live with the long-term health complications of trauma, not just physically, but emotionally and socially. We’ve felt these challenges firsthand, and we know others in our community face them daily.

As entertainers, we’ve seen both the beauty and the pain that lives in the LGBTQ+ nightlife and beyond. These spaces, while vibrant, often highlight the urgent need for safe environments that truly nurture and support us. That’s why we’ve joined forces to give back and help create a brighter future for our community.

Our Mission

Through our work with Urban Health Partnerships, we aim to:

    •    Provide safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to connect, heal, and grow.

    •    Advocate for research and education on the long-term health effects of trauma, abuse, and the social ramifications of being gay.

    •    Build a foundation of support for those still navigating the challenges of identity, resilience, and healing.

Why It Matters

We know the LGBTQ+ experience is one of beauty, love, and strength, but it’s also one of unique challenges. By understanding and addressing the health impacts of these challenges, we can empower our community to not only survive but thrive.

How You Can Help

This Give Miami Day 2024, join us in building a safer, healthier future for South Florida’s LGBTQ+ community. Your support will help us create lasting change, ensuring that no one has to face these struggles alone. Together, we can turn our collective pain into a legacy of healing and hope.

Thank you for standing with us,

Jefferson Miami & Ellie Lei