July 2013 October 2003
EGN
Erie Pride weekend pages 9-12
Erie Gay News
LGBT support groups forming in Jamestown NY
from Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County The Mental Health Association (MHA) in Jamestown, New York—supported by The Pride Center of Western New York—will be providing support for the local LGBT community. Currently two groups are forming. “RU12” is here to help with the experience of coming out and “GIST (Gender Identity Support and Talk)” is here to provide support for the transgender community. In addition to providing support to individuals with the unique obstacles that we, as LGBT citizens come to face in our personal and professional lives, the volunteers at MHA are hoping to hear from the community to find out what productive suggestions you may have about the services and events you would like to see offered and planned here at MHA in Jamestown. To enroll in one of the groups or leave a constructive suggestion please use the following contact information: MHA, Steven Cobb, 31 Water St., Door 14, (716) 661-9044 mhalgbt@gmail.com.
Young and Transgender? There’s a Place for You!
by Cyndi Moon, Vice President, Erie Sisters One advantage of being active in the transgender community is that it’s given me a great core group of friends; a group that respects and appreciates me as I come to terms with myself and determine if transition is in my future. However, there’s one big difference between my friends and me…about 25-30 years. Yes, I’m only 26 years old. I’m one of the youngest members of the Erie Sisters and I’ve been active in the TG community since 2007. While my journey has introduced me to some awesome people and opened my life up to so much, one thing has been missing. It’s those relationships with people my own age. It always adds that special connection and I’ve found it much easier to relate. In the last six years, I’ve tried reaching out to
Attendees at last year’s Butler PFLAG picnic. Check it out this year July 14 in Alameda Park, Butler. Details in our calendar, photos of last year’s picnic at www.eriegaynews.com connect with them, but the results haven’t been great. Finding younger TGs is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Many are still in the closet, some have already transitioned, or a few have already done the unthinkable. I’ll admit, it can get very lonely. Despite that, it’s inspired me to begin a new campaign. I want to reach out to as many of the younger TGs in our area as I can. I want them to know that it’s OK to come out and be who you are, even if you’re just exploring or questioning. There are others out there like you in the same situation. Is it going to be hard? Yes, but I’m up for the challenge. Earlier this year, I started a group on the Erie Sisters website called the “Under 30’s Group.” It offers resources and a place for our younger members to connect with each other. If you are a member of the Erie Sisters, check it out. If not, you can sign up at www.eriesisters.ning.com. (continued on page 3)