SOS Conference

Dear SOS Family,
Welcome home.

Founded in 2012 in my hometown of Memphis, the Saving Ourselves Symposium (SOS) began as a radical act of love—for the South, for Black LGBTQ+ people, and for those too often left on the margins of both movements and medicine. We built this space to affirm that our lives matter, our leadership matters, and our liberation must be non-negotiable.

This year’s theme, “Black to the Future: Strategies, Opportunities, Solutions!”, speaks to exactly why SOS was created in the first place: to chart bold, unapologetic paths forward that center our joy, our brilliance, and our survival. It calls on us to remember our roots while reimagining our future—and to recognize that the future we deserve will only come if we build it together.

As we gather in Atlanta, I am especially proud to celebrate this year’s honorees: DaShawn Usher and The Honorable Torrey Harris (D-TN).

DaShawn has been part of the SOS journey since the very beginning. His unwavering commitment, sharp vision, and deep love for our communities have helped shape this convening into what it is today. Whether behind the scenes or on center stage, DaShawn has always shown up—for the people, for the work, and for the legacy we’re building. His recognition this year is not only deserved—it is long overdue.

And to The Honorable Torrey Harris: Your leadership in our shared home state of Tennessee is powerful proof that visibility and advocacy can coexist in ways that move the needle for our communities. Thank you for showing up, not just in policy, but in purpose.

To all who are attending—whether this is your first SOS or your twelfth—I hope this gathering restores you, challenges you, and connects you. This convening has never been about just talking; it has always been about building. May this year be no different.

With deep pride and eternal gratitude,