WE ARE THE
QUEER LIBERATION NETWORK
MISSION
Empowering queer and trans individuals to thrive by providing inclusive support, resources, and advocacy.
VISION
We envision a society where all LGBTQIA2+ individuals are celebrated, supported, and empowered to live authentically, free from oppression and discrimination.
VALUES
Community
Liberation
Empowerment
Education
Collaboration
“With queer and trans people facing attacks, oppression, and personal hardship across the country, it’s up to all of us to give them a reason to keep going, keep fighting, and a path to the life they deserve.”
— Garrett. R. Chase, Executive Director
MEET THE TEAM
Garrett R. Chase | he/him
FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Garrett is the high-energy, sleep-deprived Founder and Executive Director of Queer Liberation Network, driven by a passion for uplifting queer and trans people navigating the same struggles he’s faced. With a background in advocacy, development, and communications, he’s been in the thick of nearly every major social justice fight in Texas—from abortion clinic defense to pushing back in the Capitol. Outside of organizing, he’s probably hosting a chaotic cocktail party, hiking with his partner and their disabled dachshund-mix Georgia, or tearing through another queer book—if you need a rec, he’s your guy.
Les Del Fuego | they/them
BOARD CHAIR
Les Del Fuego, QLN’s Board Chair, is a graphic designer, activist, and community builder passionate about uplifting queer and trans people through creativity and connection. As a Co-Creator of Gays with Clay, a popular Austin event blending hand-built pottery with community care, Les helps participants create art while raising funds for gender-affirming care. Their work includes a striking 52-foot trans flag mural at Scissor Sisters Salon, created with their partner Taryn Wood as a bold symbol of inclusion. Les brings that same spirit of visibility and belonging to all they do, both professionally and in community.
Aaron H. Aceves | he/him
BOARD VICE CHAIR
Aaron H. Aceves is a bisexual, Mexican-American writer and activist from East L.A., whose debut novel This Is Why They Hate Us was named a Best Young Adult Book of 2022 by Kirkus Reviews. A Harvard and Columbia graduate, Aaron blends literary excellence with passionate advocacy, using his platform to amplify Palestinian voices and fight for justice. As Vice Chair of Queer Liberation Network, he supports inclusive initiatives that uplift LGBTQIA2+ communities. In his downtime, Aaron enjoys karaoke, drag shows, and relaxing with his cat, Echo.
Becky Woodward | she/her
BOARD SECRETARY
Becky Woodward (she/her), QLN’s Board Secretary, is a dedicated environmental biologist and community advocate passionate about creating affirming spaces for queer and trans people to connect with nature. Originally from Katy, Texas, Becky earned her Master’s in Environmental Management and Sustainability at St. Edward’s University and has worked with both Travis County Natural Resources and the nonprofit TreeFolks. Now serving as an Environmental Specialist Sr. for the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, Becky combines her love of the outdoors with her commitment to queer community building, nurturing inclusive environments where people can learn about and care for the natural world.
OUR STORY
Queer Liberation Network (QLN) was born from a deeply personal truth: the experience of surviving without a financial safety net after coming out to a homophobic family. What began as Queer Youth ATX—a grassroots direct aid effort for queer and trans young people—has grown into a broader movement for economic justice and community care. At QLN, we believe that financial liberation is foundational to queer liberation. That’s why we provide direct, no-strings-attached support to LGBTQIA2+ individuals facing housing instability, medical crises, and other urgent needs. In a time when queer and trans people are under attack across the country, the most powerful form of solidarity is mutual aid. Together, we’re building a future where every queer and trans person has the resources not just to survive, but to thrive.