Nexos: A Space to Build Camaraderie Within the Latinx Community
Spanish-speaking LGBTQ folks now have a place to gather and enjoy community in Chicago. Nexos aims to create a welcoming, confidential space for the Latinx LGBTQ community. This group is open to people of any HIV status and any gender identity. It provides a connection to Howard Brown Health’s wide array of services and offers members of LGBTQ Latinx community a confidential space to discuss issues important to them.
Daniel Mendez, organizer and facilitator for Nexos, shared his vision for the group: “It’s a confidential group that’s designed to build trust and community. No one is asked to disclose their HIV status, but they are welcome to self-disclose and talk about it.”
The group regularly explores topics important to Chicago’s Latinx community, such as PEP/PrEP access, immigration, family, religion, social justice, friendship, transgender and gender non-conforming health, and HIV/STIs. “I think of it as a space to share life experiences,” says Daniel.
In addition to open-ended conversation and discussion, Nexos will be hosting regular guest speakers to explore topics important to its members. Upcoming speakers include a lawyer who will discuss immigration rights, a transgender activist who will share insight into their personal journey, a case manager who will talk about handling stress and depression, and a speaker who will lead a discussion about enhancing sexual connection between sexual partners. Daniel explains, “Our guest speakers are intended to facilitate connections between members of the group. We’re seeking to build a supportive community for Spanish-speaking Latinx folks across our many identities.”
Nexos is open to all sexualities and genders. The group is entirely confidential and meets every first and third Thursday of the month from 7 – 9 p.m.
To learn more about Nexos, contact Daniel Mendez | Phone 773.572.5120 | Text 312.888.0942 | Email DanielM@howardbrown.org