Despite the horrid lack of snow (I'm of the Lorelai Gilmore persuasion when it comes to fresh falling flakes), it IS officially December, which means I've started receiving the weekly texts from relatives of; "So, what is on your Christmas list?" "What are you looking for for the holidays?" "No, I CAN'T get you a letter from Hogwarts for Christmas... try again next year."
Honestly, this year I am not looking for a whole lot; aside from a subscription to The Atlantic, and the memoirs of Anna Kendrick, Lauren Graham, and Amy Poehler, there's nothing material I truly want or need. This year, not only am I asking for clothing, hygiene/ toiletry products, and nonperishable food items to donate to shelters in the Fargo-Moorhead area and Standing Rock, but I figured I would also raise awareness about several other national organizations that could use time, money, or even acknowledgement for the work they do for marginalized groups around the country. Considering that the work of many of these organizations could be undermined, threatened, or even forced to disband altogether within the next four years due to our upcoming political climate, giving them our time and attention now could mean all the difference in the future!
Below are 10 national organizations that work with and for various minority groups around the country; these span pro-choice, the LGBTQIA2S+ community, pro-Earth, pro-immigrant, anti-bigotry groups, the list goes on. Obviously, ALL groups like the ones listed deserve respect and attention, so don't be afraid to do some searching of your own to find other organizations with similar missions! Have a happy season of giving!
EMILY'S List
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This movement, based out of Washington D.C. operates as a political action committee with the goal of electing Democratic and pro-choice women in to public office. Not only are you able to donate and apply for internships with this program, but you are also able to run for office and advocate for the reproductive rights of women!
The Mazzoni Center
https://www.mazzonicenter.org/
The Mazzoni Center in Philadelphia is one of the nation's leading health service providers for people in the LGBT*QIA2S+ community. They specialize in trans* clinical care services, HIV and STD testing, assisting those going through addiction recovery, and any primary care needs the individual might be seeking. While it might be hard to volunteer your time depending on where you live, you can always donate to this center!
The Reporter's Committee For The Freedom Of The Press
https://www.rcfp.org/
This nonprofit has been fighting for the right of free speech and freedom of the press since 1970. Regardless of whether you have journalistic aspirations, have family members, or know someone in the reporting community, make individuals aware of this resource. It not only advocates for journalistic freedoms, but also provides legal resources and support for those who write for the freedom of information.
The Young Center For Immigrant Children's Rights
http://theyoungcenter.org/
This organization seeks to ease the transition for immigrant children in to the United States; especially those who come to the United States on their own. Not only are there opportunities to donate to this organization, but there are volunteer/ internship opportunities around the country, including Chicago, Houston, New York City, and Washington D.C.
EarthJustice
http://earthjustice.org/
This environmental law firm seeks justice for the Earth on all fronts, including protecting endangered wildlife, advocating for healthy and sustainable communities around the country, and constantly pushing for research for cleaner alternative energy options. Even better, if you have a case that you need representation for, they don't charge you. You can sign up for action alerts to know where local EarthJustice movements are happening in your community.
The Anti-Defamation League 
http://www.adl.org/?referrer=https://www.google.com.
The Anti-Defamation League, while starting in 1913 to prevent the unjust treatment of Jewish people in the United States, has expanded their mission to combat ALL hate crimes and bigotry. It has now become one of the largest civil rights organizations in the country. The best part is, that means you can find a chapter that's closest to you, and easily donate or volunteer your time!
The Sylvia Rivera Law Project
http://srlp.org
This organization serves members of the LGBT*QIA2S+ community who find themselves living below the poverty line and are in need of legal services. Their services are not just limited to people on any particular part of the gender spectrum; they seek to also serve those who are gender non-conforming and who are people of color. The goal is to provide these services so these individuals no longer have to face discrimination or violent harassment. You can volunteer or donate!
Union Of Concerned Scientists
http://www.ucsusa.org/
This scientific nonprofit involves both professional scientists and concerned and informed citizens. They are a research-based nonprofit that attempt to solve the world's most pressing environmental problems, and eventually create policy to enact positive change.
Southern Poverty Law Center
https://www.splcenter.org/
The Southern Poverty Law Center is a fighting force against hate groups, the hate crimes they perpetrate, and the bigoted mindsets that are created when these groups are allowed to exist. They fight these groups through the power of education across the nation, as well as taking action with advocacy. You're able to donate, as well as become informed of the hate crime trends in your state.
The Native American Right's Fund 
http://www.narf.org/
This organization provides legal assistance to Native American tribes as whole, any Native American associations or organizations, as well as individuals who feel they are not being equally represented in society or the courtroom. You're able to donate, as well as become informed, on their website.
