Welcome

The vision for SSIS is to create a world where Black and brown queer people — especially Black trans men — no longer have to struggle in silence. We envision a community where every person navigating substance use, in all its forms, is met with compassion, understanding, and culturally aware support,

aiming to build a network of connection, resources, and healing spaces that honor our full identities and lived experiences. The vision is for SSIS to be a trusted home for truth-telling, growth, and solidarity, where people feel seen, valued, and never alone on their journey.

The approach is grounded in trust, community, and cultural care, centering Black and brown queer people, especially Black trans men, and honor the many ways substance use can show up in our lives—not just through drugs or alcohol, but through any patterns that leave us feeling stuck or disconnected.

The focus is meeting you where you are, moving at your pace, and creating spaces that are judgment-free, confidential, and affirming. Through peer connection, storytelling, and resource-sharing,  working to build a community where you feel seen, supported, and never alone in your healing.

The accomplishments begin with every connection made and every story shared without fear. Each person who joins SSIS and feels a little less alone, a little more seen, is part of what we are building together.

Proud to have created a growing, affirming space where Black and brown queer people, especially Black trans men, can speak openly about substance use in all its forms and be met with care instead of judgment. As our community expands, so does our impact—showing that healing, support, and solidarity are possible when we refuse to suffer in silence.