NEWS BRIEFS: Open Letter Asks Media and Health Officials to Weigh Added Risk During COVID-19 Pandemic The National LGBT Cancer Network, located in Providence, joined dozens of other organizations to release a letter asking the media to be aware of the increased health risks to LGBTQ+ Americans. In it, health risks such as the increased use of tobacco by the LGBTQ+ community, as well as higher rates of HIV and cancer were outlined, showing that this community is among those who are particularly vulnerable to the negative health effects of this virus. Discrimination by health care providers was also detailed as adding to the risk. The letter went on to say that “LGBTQ+ communities are very familiar with the phenomena of stigma and epidemics. We want to urge people involved with the COVID-19 response to ensure that LGBTQ+ communities are adequately served during this outbreak.” This includes requests that information be tailored to LGBTQ+ populations by including imagery of LGBTQ+ persons in any graphic ads, collecting sexual orientation and gender identity demographic information, and utilizing those organizations trusted by the LGBTQ+ community. Signed by well over 100 organizations located throughout the country, the letter concludes, “The undersigned organizations offer to stand shoulder to shoulder with the mainstream health leadership to make sure we learn from history and do not allow any population to be disproportionately impacted or further stigmatized by a virus.”
Despite Coronavirus, LGBTQ Voters Continue Historic High Turnout The presidential primary exit polls in every state show one consistent
8
options
April/May 2020
by Myra Shays
trend: LGBTQ voters are fired up and turning out in record-high numbers. From New Hampshire and South Carolina to Texas and Illinois, LGBTQ voters have more than doubled — and in some cases tripled — their proportion in the voting population. Over the last two decades, our rights have been on the ballot, spurring LGBTQ people to register and participate in politics more than many other demographic groups. LGBTQ voters have consistently punched above their weight and solidified themselves as a constituency to court.
RI Pride Launches Drive to Aid LGBTQIA+ Rhode Islanders During Quarantine Acting more out of a sense of urgency than inspiration, Rhode Island Pride launched a drive to help folks in need with food, toiletries, and more, in a response to the tremendous loss of income due to the Covid-19 virus and its quarantines. “So many of our community members are in service industry jobs,” said Pride member and Mr. Gay Rhode Island Bret Jacob, “they need help, just to lessen the anxiety they are feeling.” After a careful study of feasibility and capacity, the drive used social media and email lists to ask for donated items and financial assistance. The Providence Journal helped by picking up the story. Volunteer shoppers spent cash donations on necessities to fill requests. As of March 29, they had helped more than 1,700 people and raised $9000, as well as taking donations of large amounts of food and other supplies. A bakery even sent boxes of pastries. The
group says it is abiding by all safety, food handling, and social distancing recommendations. Other volunteers were dispatched to deliver the food to needy residents. (The organization does not inquire as to the recipients’ orientation or identity before delivering.) “There is no end in sight,” said Jacob, “but the way this community comes together to fill a need is inspiring.” Now, as a result of participating in a citywide conference call, the organization is considering continuing the drive beyond the need brought on by the coronavirus. They expressed surprise at how many other participants on the call were talking about their own needs and not the greater good. Will they be able to meet the demand as the pandemic continues? “So far, so good, “said Jacob.
COVID-19 Affects Pride Celebrations As the number of Pride festivals affected by COVID19 passed 100 on March 20, a new group was formed to coordinate the Pride movement’s overall responses at the international level. The new group met for the first time a few weeks ago, with colleagues from Germany, the UK and InterPride – the International Association of LGBTI Pride Organizers. “As we face an unprecedented global threat, our Pride movement will come together to support each other and create community at a time when we need it most,” said InterPride Co-President Linda DeMarco, also of Boston Pride. Kristine Garina, President of European
