NASHVILLE, Tenn (WTVF) — The fire department is using T-shirts to raise awareness on LGBT issues. Nashville fire station 2 is partnering with the Tennessee Equality Project foundation and department's first LGBT liaison says it's about inclusion.
"We don't see differences we see people," said Paramedic Matthew Fuson.
Nashville's shift B firefighters at station 2 are in the business of saving lives, but this monthFuson says they want everyone to know that every life in the metro area has meaning.
"They guys here at the station just have this amazing heart and they wanted everyone to know as a department we're inclusive," Fuson said.
The shift B crew who meets on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays is partnering with the Tennessee Equality Project.
"It just started by a need to get awareness out there," Fuson said.
Awareness, executive director Chris Sanders says he's excited to bring forward with the fire department, "I was delighted; we think the world of work that our firefighters do and to be picked at the beneficiary that was really special."
The men and women of the Nashville fire department plans to raise awareness one t-shirt sale at a time.
"The T-shirts were designed by a couple of the firemen,and it came about as a conversation with one of his friends and just understanding the legislation that’s going on right now; and just kind of a way the LGBT community as a whole is kind of looked at and just to raise awareness," Fuson said.
Shirts can be purchased Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays at station two downtown, and all proceeds go back to the Tennessee Equality Project foundation.
"That helps us provide classes on how to be an advocate and how to talk to your elected officials, how to talk to the media about LGBT issues," said Sanders.
Fuson said already this partnership is making a difference, "I had a fellow paramedic call and just say I just want to thank you, I feel safe here at work."
Shirts sold out but a new order should be in by Sunday afternoon.
