Our Philosophy

MashUp addresses health disparities and social injustices for Black LGBTQ+ people by helping people see themselves, their identities, and their world more clearly. We believe that true transformation occurs through understanding. MashUp creates something rare in a world that pushes people to divide themselves. When society tells Black LGBTQ+ individuals they must choose—between their culture or their identity, their faith or their truth—we create spaces where people don’t have to choose. They can bring every piece of who they are and see how those pieces create something beautiful together. Wholeness is our unique way of creating change.

The Barriers

Our community faces persistent double discrimination—racial discrimination compounded by exclusion based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Systemic barriers in housing, education, and healthcare create a landscape where marginalized individuals often experience higher rates of stress, mental health disparities, and lack of access to quality care. These disparities are further amplified within Black LGBTQ+ communities leaving many vulnerable to homelessness, poor health outcomes, and social exclusion.

Our Pillars

Wholeness as a
Path to Healing

We believe transformation begins when people are seen in their full complexity. MashUp creates spaces where Black LGBTQ+ individuals don’t have to choose between their faith, culture, or identity. Instead, we foster environments that celebrate every part of who they are—because wholeness is not just healing, it’s liberation.

Health Equity Through Identity Integration

MashUp helps people integrate all aspects of their identity, leading to better health decisions, more appropriate care, and stronger support systems. We don’t just address disparities—we work to prevent them by making identity a central part of care.

Community Knowledge & Generational Wisdom

Our programs uplift through dialogue, education, and mentorship. From Dining Dialogues to The Wholiness Project and Timeless Jewels, we pass on the wisdom that prevents future struggles. By fostering intergenerational conversations, we strengthen our community's ability to heal, lead, and thrive—together.

Leadership and Social Justice in Action

The EJR Institute cultivates Black LGBTQ+ leadership through business, advocacy, and community-building training. We’re developing a new generation of changemakers who are reshaping Tennessee and beyond—equipped to dismantle injustice and replace it with power, equity, and vision.

MashUp! Global Impact

We aim to be a vital part of the global community by committing to the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) that shape our collective future. By driving local change with a shared purpose, we extend our impact globally and build stronger partnerships with organizations and stakeholders. Our focus on SDG3 and SDG10 aligns with global priorities, ensures long-term sustainability, and fosters a sense of belonging within our team. Our impact report reflects this commitment to these priorities and aspirations.

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SDG #3:

Good Health and Well-Being, by addressing disparities in health and promoting holistic well-being for marginalized communities.

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SDG #10:

Reduce Inequality Within/Among Countries, by empowering BIPOC LGBTQ+ individuals to overcome systemic barriers and achieve equity in all aspects of life.

Learn More

Read more details on our values, and global impact alignments, direction, and successes here.

Why Your Support Matters

At MashUp, we don’t just offer services—we illuminate the roots of inequity. Our work is grounded in the belief that real change begins with self-understanding. When people are supported in integrating every aspect of who they are—mind, body, identity, culture—they become empowered to make informed choices, seek affirming care, and build lasting systems of support. We don’t provide one-time solutions; we nurture lifelong transformation.

This approach extends across our programs. Timeless Jewels honors and uplifts Black LGBTQ+ elders by cultivating spaces for connection, storytelling, and mentorship—improving quality of life while preserving generational wisdom. The EJR Institute builds the next wave of leadership by equipping Tennessee’s Black LGBTQ+ activists and entrepreneurs with the tools they need to lead boldly and strategically in their communities.

Our community-rooted initiatives, like Dining Dialogues and The Wholiness Project, open space for vulnerable, affirming conversations around sexual health, identity, and healing from religious trauma. These programs do more than educate—they offer space for restoration. In 2024 alone, we engaged over 669 participants across 23 events, helping increase confidence and reduce stigma around HIV/AIDS, mental health, and queer identity.

Invest in hope. Invest in change. Invest in MashUp! Nashville.

Every donation helps sustain our work. Your support directly fuels programs that uplift individuals, fortify community connections, and drive meaningful, long-term change. Together, we are not just addressing disparities—we are reimagining systems and building futures where Black LGBTQ+ people can thrive.

Frequency

One time

Monthly