options
Please take one
Rhode
Island’s
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender
Community Newsmagazine
www.optionsri.org
April 2013
A Blessing to the Faithful:
Open & affirming houses of worship
Pastor Gary Bagley, pictured with his partner Paul Pfrang, sets up shop at Edgewood Church. Story on page 12
In this issue: 3 6
5
Scene Around Providence
News Briefs
7
Calendar
9
Opinion; Obituary
Lesbians on the Loose
10 COLAGE 12 Edgewood Church Has a New Pastor (he’s gay!) 14 SCOTUS Hears Marriage Cases 17 Born This Way Prom! 18 Call for Study Participants 19 Youth Pride, Inc. 20 Providence Gay Men’s Chorus 21 SAGE/RI 22 AIDS Care Ocean State 23 AIDS Project RI 24 RI Pride 25 Imperial Court
q Serving the RI LGBT Community Since 1982 qapril Visit our Resources Sectionqon p. 27 options q 1 2013
q
Subscriptions p. 4 q
options
q
april
2013
q
2
Scene Around Providence Photography courtesy of Jack Hartwein-Sanchez
Valentine’s Day Fundraiser for RI Pride at Roots, Feb. 14
Mardi Gras Fundraiser for AIDS Care Ocean State, Feb. 23 at the Providence Biltmore
The Goddess Show Fundraiser for RI Pride, March 3 at FĂŞte
options
q
april
2013
q
3
options
From the Editor’s Desk Dear Readers, As I write this message, the dark clouds of what I hope will be the last snow storm of the season are gathering. I am told it is spring, and yet the view out our window tells another story. I am also told that this will be the year we achieve marriage equality. Can the dark clouds of our second-class citizenship be dissipating? Let’s hope so, and let’s do what we can to make it so. Speaking of marriage, it is most unfortunate that we had to go to press with this issue before we could report on the findings of the Supreme Court’s hearings on Prop. 8 and the DOMA. Since we can’t give you the details, be sure and look it up yourself. You can use the handy guide
on page 14 to acquaint yourself with the issues. Please note also that the location for our distribution shindig has changed. Beginning this month, you can find us on the last Sunday at The Stable, where Michael Slade has welcomed us with open arms (and where Kitty Litter will be behind the bar should you need additional incentive). One more thing -- may I suggest that you reserve the evening of Friday, August 30? It’s the first night of Labor Day Weekend. Trust me on this one. Pencil it in; you’ll be glad you did!
Rhode Island’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Newsmagazine Since 1982
april 2013 q Vol. XXXI1, No. 3 Managing Director Kim Stowell editor@optionsri.org Writers Austen Bourassa, Kalene Brennan, Annie Cronin-Silva, Bradford Greer, Sally Ann Hay, Kerri Kanelos, Laura Kiritsy, Amy Stein, Jennifer Stevens, Nathaniel Zane, Ed Zawot Copy Editors Dennis Bozzi, Jessica Cinquegrana, Nathaniel Zane, Brian Gay, Steve Kagan, Joseph Morra, Maria Phillips, Jim Seavor, Myra Shays Calendar Editor Annie Cronin-Silva calendar@optionsri.org Resources Editor Myra Shays mshays@verizon.net
OPTIONS DISTRIBUTION PARTY Sunday, April 28, 3-6 p.m. ION T A C O NEW L
General Information info@optionsri.org Advertising Kyle Marnane advertising@optionsri.org
The Stable
Billing Donny McKendall billing@optionsri.org
Please join us on the last Sunday of the month and help us get Options OUT to all our distribution points around the state.
Webmaster Ken Fonzi admin@optionsri.org
The Stable • 125 Washington St., Providence
Yes, I Want Options... For a free subscription, mailed discreetly in a plain envelope, please send: Your Name_________________________________________ Address:____________________________ City___________________ State _____ Zip Code __________
TO: OPTIONS I want to get involved! PO. Box 6406 Please contact me at: Providence, RI 02940 email: phone: options
q
april
2013
P.O. Box 6406 Providence, RI 02940-6406
(401) 724-LGBT
www.optionsri.org © OPTIONS 2013. Options is published ten times each year. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the governing board, volunteers or staff. Listings are provided as a resource and do not imply endorsement. Submissions to Options must be signed and accompanied by a phone number, but names may be withheld on request. Submissions, ads, calendar or resource listings for the May issue must be delivered by April 10. Financial support is also always welcome. For a subscription, send us your name and address or subscribe online at www.optionsri.org. Moving? Send us your old address with your new address.
q
4
Passages
Opinion Edward “J” La Velle, 77, died unexpectedly on March 5. He was the life partner of Raffaello La Mantia for 53 years. J was born in Ft. Dodge, Iowa on May 3, 1935. He graduated from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa in 1957, enlisted in the army, and then moved to Chicago after his service. It was there that he met Raffaello; they began living togeth-
er in Chicago in 1960. J was an active member of St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Hyde Park, near the University of Chicago. He was head of the finance committee for St. Thomas and on the Chicago Real Estate Board. He was first vice president of the Kennedy, Ryan, Monigal and Associates, Inc. real estate firm in Chicago and developed many apartment buildings in the University area into condominiums. His summer home was in Provincetown, where he owned an art gallery with Raffaello. They also established the Renaissance Apartments in Provincetown. Upon retirement they moved from Chicago to Providence to be closer to Cape Cod. Moving to Blackstone Boulevard was an easy step; they lived on Blackstone Avenue in Chicago for 35 years. They fell in love with Providence and soon had many friends here. J and Raffaello were supportive of the Providence Gay Men’s Chorus (PGMC), Youth Pride, Inc., Marriage Equality Rhode Island, the Gamm Theatre, Trinity Rep and other causes. A highlight came three years ago when dear friends Sen. John Gilgun and Victor Russo insisted that they celebrate the milestone of 50 years together. That celebration was a wonderful and blessed occasion and a tribute to a lasting love. The PGMC sang at J’s funeral mass at St. Ann in Cranston. Raffaello wants to develop a drinking fountain on the median across the street from their home on Blackstone Boulevard -- a fountain for people and animals in J’s honor. J was blessed to have so many supportive and loving friends.
Truth, Justice and the American Way: Superman and Homophobia Nathaniel Zane It all started when DC Comics recently decided to run an anthology of Superman stories, featuring different authors for each story, that would begin in digital format, then head to print issues available at retail stores. For the first issue they hired Orson Scott Card, noted author, vocal homophobe, and board member of the anti-gay National Organization for Marriage (NOM). The result was an explosion of anger and outrage. How could someone who espouses hate and discrimination towards others write for someone who fights for “truth, tolerance, and justice”? The choice was a shock coming from the company that recently launched a new Green Lantern series with the title character as a gay man, in addition to the out lesbian Batwoman winning them two awards from GLAAD for “Outstanding Comic” in the past three years, and may have published the first same-gender kiss in mainstream American comics over two decades ago. But DC stood by their choice, telling The Advocate “As content creators we steadfastly support freedom of expression; however the personal views of individuals associated with DC Comics are just that — personal views — and not those of the company itself.” There were immediate calls for Card’s dismissal and threats of boycotts. The site AllOut.org started a petition calling for DC to drop Card that has 17,021 signatures as of this writing. One
Please send letters, wedding, birth and adoption announcements, obituaries etc. to:
-
editor@optionsri.org or P.O. Box 6406, Providence 02940 options
q
april
2013
q
5
fan, posting on NPR.org, wrote, “It will be the first piece of Superman-affiliated pop culture that I will bypass in my 45 long and geeky years on this planet…DC Comics has handed the keys to the ‘Champion of the Oppressed’ to a guy who has dedicated himself to oppress me, and my partner, and millions of people like us. It represents a fundamental misread of who the character is, and what he means.” The response among storeowners was mixed. Some declared they would carry it regardless. Others, homosexual and heterosexual alike, declared a boycott. The owner of Dallas’ Zeus Comics spoke out on his Facebook page: “Zeus Comics will not be carrying the print edition of writer Orson Scott Card’s Superman…. His essays advocate the destruction of my relationship, that I am born of rape or abuse and that I am equated with pedophilia. These themes appear in his fiction as well. It is shocking DC Comics would hire him to write Superman, a character whose ideals represent all of us. If you replaced the word ‘homosexuals’ in his essays with the words ‘women’ or ‘Jews,’ he would not be hired. But I’m not sure why [it’s] still okay to ‘have an opinion’ about gays? This is about equality.” Another store, Chicago’s Challengers Comics + Conversation, decided to sell the issue, leaving the choice of whether to buy or not in the shoppers’ hands. The profits they received, however, would have been donated to the pro-equality group the Human Rights Campaign. But it all came to screeching halt when the outcry reached the ears of the artist Chris Sprouse. Releasing a statement that “the media surrounding this story reached the point where it took away from the actual work, and that’s something I wasn’t comfortable with,” he made the decision to leave the project. With his departure, neither a digital nor print version of Card’s issue will be made, ending, at least temporarily, Card’s involvement with Superman. DC has since released a statement that they “will re-solicit the story at a later date when a new artist is hired.”
News Briefs RI Senate Judiciary Hears Marriage Testimony until 5 a.m.
Students’ Petition Calls on FDA to Change Ban on Gay Blood Donors
Wheeler School sixth grader Matthew Lannon almost stole the show during the marathon hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee in favor of the marriage equality bill. A video by ProJo photographer Kris Craig was picked up by the Huffington Post and Salon, and was featured on AOL’s homepage and elsewhere across the web. The Committee did not take a vote that day, and has not as of press time.
The Committee of Student Life at Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, N.Y., in conjunction with students at San Jose State University in San Jose, Calif., started a “We the People” petition to get President Barack Obama’s support and encourage the FDA to change its policy on men who have sex with men. Both college campuses ban blood drives because it conflicts with their respective schools’ policies on non-discrimination, so the students decided to take their wishes to hold blood drives all the way to the top.
As the RI Senate debates the issue, the U.S. Supreme Court will have heard a case involving a challenge to California’s Proposition 8. The next day, the court scheduled an unusually long 110 minutes of argument in United States v. Windsor, a case challenging the Federal DOMA.
Honoring Service of Military Family in Virginia Denied Melissa Smith is retiring next month and has requested that her legal spouse, T.J. Jenkins, receive a customary Certificate of Appreciation and other appropriate honors from her Commanding Officer. Her Commander has denied that request, citing DOMA. “To be a second class citizen is just like me sitting in the back of the bus,” Jenkins said.
Law Would Police Public Restroom Use A bill introduced last month by Arizona Representative John Kavanagh would make it a crime to enter a public restroom designated for one gender or the other if you are “not legally classified” on your birth certificate as a member of that sex. The measure, SB 1432, also would apply
to showers, baths, dressing rooms or locker rooms marked “men” or “women.” It’s being called the “papers please” bill because folks would be required by law to show that the gender on their birth certificate matches the gender of the restroom they are using.
Since apparently DC has learned nothing. q
options
q
april
2013
q
6
Calendar Got a big event coming up? Let us know about it! Send your listing by the 10th of the month preceding to calendar@optionsri.org, and we’ll see that it gets into the next edition.
April 2
3
Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. A peer-led support group open to transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, and intersex people and to those who are exploring whether one of these identities is a good description of their experience. Meeting location is withheld for participant privacy. See info@tginetwork.org for more information. PFLAG of Greater Providence meeting, 6:45-8:45 p.m. The Met School (Justice Building), 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571.
4-7 Straight White Men, a new play in progress at Brown University Leeds Theatre, 77 Waterman St., Providence. Written and directed by OBIE award recipient Young Jean Lee, this experimental play “explores how straight white men react as their once-unchallenged cultural predominance begins to erode.” Wed.-Sat. at 8 p.m.; Sun. at 2 p.m. Tickets: $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, $7 for students. Call 863-2838 or e-mail boxoffice@brown.edu for more information. 5
7
Luna’s Ladies Night, 9 p.m. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music, DJ, special events. 21+ $6 cover. Every Friday. See www.lunaspvd.com.
Elizabeth A. Coderre, LMHC Board Certified Diplomate in Professional Counseling
Psychotherapy with Individuals, Couples and Groups Most Insurances Accepted
194 Waterman Street
401-487-0024 401-765-4519
Providence, RI 02906
RI Pride Triple Crown Pageant, 7-10 p.m. Providence Biltmore Hotel, 11 Dorrance St., Providence. Doors open at 6 p.m., competition begins promptly at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door. For more information and tickets see www.prideri.com, or e-mail Info@prideri. com.
10-12 Straight White Men - See April 4-7. 12 Paula Poundstone, 8 p.m. Stadium Theatre, 28 Monument Square, Woonsocket. For tickets see www.stadiumtheatre.com or call 762-4545. 14 Drag Brunch with Miss Jacqueline DiMera, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Aspire Restaurant, 311 Westminster St., Providence. Special guests: Miss Sabrina Blaze and Gia Deveroux. For reservations call 521-3333. 14 Straight White Men See April 4-7. 14 RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7p.m. Social and networking for gay and bisexual men 40+. Social, dinner and meeting. www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010. 16 Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. See April 2 listing. 17 Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. Book selection: Full Service by Scotty Bowers. Discount given if book is purchased at Books on the Square. For more information e-mail queerbookclub@gmail.com. 18 TV Land Gay Bingo, 6-9:30 p.m. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Doors open at 6; Bingo starts promptly at 7. $20 to play. 18+ event. 20 COLAGE, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. For children, youth, and adults with one or more LGBT parent. Socializing and leadership development. The Gordon School, 45 Maxfield Ave., East Providence. For more information e-mail vjutras5@gmail.com. 24 TransPartners of New England, 6:30-8:30 p.m. The meeting location is
options
q
april
2013
q
7
withheld for participant privacy. Please e-mail partners@tginetwork.org for more information. 25 AIDS Project RI’s “Dine Out For Life.” Restaurants across Rhode Island will donate a portion of this evening’s proceeds to APRI. For more information and list of participating restaurants, e-mail Amy at amy@aidsprojectri.org. 28
Options Distribution Party. 3-6 p.m. at the Stable, 125 Washington St., Providence. Come down and meet some
new people while helping to get the new issue of Options OUT to our many distribution points. Your help will be much appreciated, and fyi, Miss Kitty will be behind the bar...
May 1
3
Luna’s Ladies Night, 9 p.m. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music, DJ, special events. 21+ $6 cover. Every Friday. See www. lunaspvd.com.
4
Cheryl Wheeler, 8 p.m. Common Fence Music, 933 Anthony Rd., Portsmouth. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets: $35. For more information and tickets call 6835085 or go to www.commonfencemusic. org.
5
3rd Annual King of Queens. A drag show with a twist! Doors open at 6 p.m. The Colosseum, $15. Visit www.aidscareos.org for more information.
7
Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. A peer-led support group open to transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, and intersex people and to those who are exploring whether one of these identities is a good description of their experience. Meeting location is withheld for participant privacy. See info@ tginetwork.org for more information.
PFLAG of Greater Providence meeting, 6:45-8:45 p.m. The Met School (Justice Building), 325 Public St., Providence. 7517571.
12 RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7p.m. Social and networking for gay and bisexual men 40+. Social, dinner and meeting. www. riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 9963010. 14
Big Gay Al’s Bowling summer league starts, 7:15-9:30 p.m. Town Hall Lanes, 1463 Atwood Ave., Johnston. For more information and to sign up see www. bgalbowling.com.
15 Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. Book selection: Ill Will by J. M. Redman. Discount if book is purchased at Books on the Square. For more information e-mail queerbookclub@gmail.com. 16 It’s a Very Kitty World Gay Bingo, 6-9:30 p.m. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Doors open at 6; Bingo starts promptly at 7. $20 to play. 18+ event. Come dressed as Miss Kitty Litter!! 18 COLAGE, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. For children, youth, and adults with one or more LGBT parent. Socializing and leadership development. The Gordon School, 45 Maxfield Ave., East Providence. For more information e-mail vjutras5@ gmail.com.
q
options
q
april
2013
q
8
Lesbians on the Loose out of the closet and out on the town!
...In which our heroes Annie & Melanie find themselves at the hottest LGBT events in Rhode Island. As you can see, they take pictures, too. Look for them where you see queer people coming together!
A
t the end of February, we headed up north to one of our favorite places -- Ogunquit, Maine. We’re sure every gay person has been there and if you haven’t you definitely should go. Many tourists frequent Ogunquit in the summer and spring but we go twice a year in the off-season. Fall and winter are our favorite times to be in Maine. There is something so relaxing and serene -- the crisp air, winter snow and a quiet that comes over the state. Our favorite place to stay is the Gazebo Inn Ogunquit, a restored 1847 farmhouse and barn owned by Scott Osgood and Bruce Senecal. Picture it: the windows have frost on them, snow is falling, the dual-sided fireplace is lit in your suite (one side in the bedroom and one side in the bathroom) and you are sipping champagne in your two-person Jacuzzi tub. Bruce and Scott and their manager Peter Hill have perfected the art of hospitality. While the Inn is not exclusive to gay patrons, all the guests we have met there in the past five years have been welcoming and accepting. We even re-book the same weekend with a group of couples (all of whom are heterosexual) we met on past weekends at the Inn. If you visit there, tell them Annie and Melanie sent you.
of the media trainings by Rhode Islanders United for Marriage. The workshops were held at the end of February and beginning of March. Even though we have been involved with Marriage Equality Rhode Island for several years, it’s always good to brush up and improve on how we can deliver our message in a moving and effective way. The training allowed us to speak to and meet members of the GLAD team that is helping Rhode Island fight for marriage equality, as well as speak to other members of the community who came out to volunteer their time. Also at the training were Christine Edmonds and Phyllis Arffa, owners of Blaze Restaurant on the East Side. These women are passionate and motivated to help all Rhode Islanders achieve marriage equality. If you want to get involved, please email info@riunited.org or go to their website http://www.riunitedformarriage.org. And get involved – remember, your voice matters!
After relaxing in Maine, it was time to celebrate in March – with the engagement party of two of our dear friends and fellow Options volunteers, Donny and Kyle, pictured at right. How amazing to witness all the love and support from their family and friends. The night was filled with excitement, happiness and love. Speaking of marriage, we had the opportunity to attend one
For more information on upcoming events, check Options’ calendar and online at http://optionsri.org/calendar. If you know of any events we should be attending, please email information to calendar@optionsri.org. XO, Annie & Melanie
options
q
april
2013
q
9
RI COLAGE Chapter Enjoys New Energy Kim Stowell
In 1988, a small group of young people with gay and lesbian parents came together while their parents were attending an annual Gay and Lesbian Parents Coalition conference. Recognizing that they had much to share with one another and the larger world about growing up in same-gender parent families, they soon began putting out a periodic newsletter and organizing local
chapters.
related to having LGBTQ parents.
Today, COLAGE (originally called “Children of Lesbians and Gays Everywhere”) has chapters across the country. They provide community, empowerment, education, and advocacy for children and youth with LGBTQ parents. Chapters offer comfortable and safe places for youth to meet, support one another, have fun and talk about issues
The Rhode Island chapter has been in existence for many years, with numerous leaders. Leaders have historically themselves been the children of LGBTQ parents. Today, however, their leader is a lesbian mom – Veronica Jutras. A recent transplant from New Hampshire, she and her wife, along with their twin toddlers, moved here for
Also: Star Over the Luna Pet sitting www.starovertheluna.com
options
q
april
2013
q
10
work; Sarah teaches at the Moses Brown School, Veronica at the Gordon School. “I wanted to find a way to do activism,” said Jutras in a recent interview. “I wanted to feel I was doing something, especially for my children.” When the leadership of COLAGE came into transition, Jutras stepped up. “It was just what I was looking for,” she added, smiling. The group is small but growing, and they are exploring what they want to be as a group. “Often,” she said, “COLAGE chapters engage in activism, public education, and advocacy work, making the world a better place for children of LGBTQ parents. Right now, though, our members are just really enjoying being together.” The meetings – which always include food – have a brief check-in where members can talk about their families and friends (if they choose to), followed by
games, basketball, card-playing or whatever the group chooses. It is during these activity times when friendships form. “It’s almost automatic,” asserted Jutras. “They have such a strong common bond.” Jutras’s first meeting with the group was in September, and she is energized by being with the members. “I am learning so much from them, ways to be a better parent. And their relationships are beautiful. They have
a lot of fun together.” Plans are under way for the group to have a booth at the Pride Festival in June, and the newest member of the group – the young man who spoke so endearingly at the House Judiciary hearings on marriage equality earlier this year – is interested in organizing a youth rally, but for now the focus is on attracting new members to add to the nine or so that come to the meetings now. “I want all this to evolve in an organic way, focused on the choices and wants of the members,” she said. Of course, she is quick to admit that she has a vested interest in seeing the group perpetuate until such time as her own children are old enough to join. For more information about the RI Chapter of COLAGE, contact them at rhodeisland@colage.org. q
3.5 x 2.275.
Sarah, at left, and Veronica with their children Rory and Kip.
options
q
april
2013
q
11
You Can Take the Gay Pastor Out of Texas, but... Ed Zawot
You can’t take Texas out of the gay pastor, or so it seems. The Rev. Gary Bagley and his partner Paul Pfrang recently gathered up their Texas drawls, cowboy boots, Schnauzers, and martini glass collection to move to Cranston when Gary was offered a job as the new pastor of Edgewood Church. Fortunately for the church membership, he’s brought his southern charm and laugh with him.
day, despite the fact that I’d just lost my job. And wouldn’t you know it, I’d barely gotten to the parking lot after that meeting and I got a phone call, totally out of the blue, from a UCC (United Church of Christ) church asking me to an interview. When things like that happen, it proves to me that
“When I realized people at Edgewood Church were more focused on the fact that I’m from Texas than that I’m gay,” he recalls, “I realized I’d found my new home.” Why Rhode Island? “God has this habit of opening doors at the right time.” Smiling, he adds, “That’s not to say that we don’t get hit in the butt a few times by doors that are closing behind us!” Indeed, Gary Bagley has gotten a few bruises in that respect, all of which, he’s quick to point out, have only served to point him in a new direction. “I was ordained as a Methodist minister in Texas, until they effectively asked me to leave. I came out. And it didn’t go over well, to say the least. After moving me around a few times, they called me in to a meeting and said, “Uh, we don’t think we have a place for you here.” “When you hear people talk about a burden being lifted, well, that was me that
miracles still happen.” He spent two years working with two UCC churches in Texas where he was allowed a lot more freedom to be himself. Until he felt a tug toward something bigger. He put his résumé out, and Edgewood Church was among the churches across the country that opted to interview him.
“People want to believe in miracles… and sometimes opportunities drop out of the sky. But other times, these miracles just come down to unexpected acts of kindness or sacrifice by a stranger. Look at what people post and share on Facebook. The cop in New York who gave a homeless man a pair of shoes. The waiter who refused service to a couple who were complaining about the distraction from a special needs child at the next table. These are our heroes…our modern day miracle workers. Something about these stories hits us and touches us, and seems to fill an empty hole inside. Not to sound preachy, but a lot of what Jesus did was unexpected acts of kindness and sacrifice.” What’s in store for Edgewood Church? “Well, let’s face it: the ‘church’ is largely irrelevant to many people. One colleague of mine put it this way: ‘If this is the 1950s, the Church is ready’. Organized religion has left a lot of people hurt or simply pissed off. But you don’t have to throw the baby out with the baptismal font. Our job, if we’re really Christians, is not just to accept people, but to embrace them. How you do this is different today than it was a couple of decades ago. “When we say ‘you are welcome here, whoever you are, or wherever you are in life,’ we have to mean it. That means that the sacraments: baptism, marriage, communion,
options
How will you say “I Do”?
Make your ceremony meaningful by making it uniquely yours!
Read by LGBTQ Rhode Islanders since 1982
a
At Last!
Personalized Ceremonies for your Wedding
Have you made a contribution?
www.optionsri.org
Cindy Zito – Officiant
P.O. Box 6406 • Providence, RI 02940
options
q
april
2013
q
atlast.vpweb.com
12
are open to all. Otherwise, are we really open and affirming if we make distinctions as to who can participate fully in the church community? Seems like a no-brainer.”
Interweave’s 4th annual Born-This-Way
Prom
Pastor Bagley believes his God put him here for a reason. He jokes about the curtains he found in the church office once he arrived. “They were hideous. It was a mission for Martha Stewart or me, and she must have been tied up with a pine cone project in Vermont. So I must have been next in line.”
gay, lesbian or whaterver
8PM - Midnight FOP Lodge Mitchell’s Lane, Middletown, RI (just off RI RT138)
Taking a more serious tone, he continues, “Organized religion has lost its way. We need to have something relevant to offer, and for many folks, especially the under-40 crowd, this may just mean connecting through the Internet, on our Facebook page or website. If we post something that comforts or reassures or reminds someone that there’s a big picture that transcends today’s difficulties, then we’re on the right track. We’ve reached out and connected. If we can be of more help, we’re here and they’ve found us. But above all we need to stay true to what we say we are about.” As a starting point in his position at Edgewood, he’s organizing a series of “Cottage Meetings” with the goal of meeting with all of the church members in small groups to see where the church’s efforts should go. “We don’t talk about fire and brimstone and hell and damnation to come. We don’t care where you’ve been or what you’ve done. A lot of people have had to wade through enough hell already, being marginalized or faced with isolation, fear, guilt and loneliness. That’s plenty of hell for anyone. If we’re going to offer anything of value to people, we need to start there, and say, “You’re OK. You’re welcome here.” He believes that the church can be relevant if it just tunes into what people need. And sometimes, acceptance without conditions is enough. Pastor Gary welcomes input from the community. He can be reached at edgewoodpastor@gmail.com, through Edgewood Church’s Facebook page, through their website, edgewoodchurchri.org or at the church office at 461-1344. q
options
q
Friday, April 26th 2013
non-alcoholic • ages Middle School & up tix sold at Channing Church & at the door $10 students, $20 adults DJ Hansen • Drag Show • King & Queen • Pizza To Request Information Contact: interweave@channingchurch.org
GAY
Yo
ur The THIRD Thursday of EVERY MONTH! Miss hostess, Kitty Litter Doors open at 6pm, Bingo starts at 7pm SHARP! ! The Riviera Bingo Palace 1612 Elmwood Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 $20 to play, 18+ event
Official Ball Puller, Haley Star!
Visit www.aidscareos.org for monthly themes!
april
2013
q
13
Momentum for Marriage at the U.S. Supreme Court By Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD)
A
s you are reading this, the U.S. Supreme Court is weighing two cases that could dramatically impact the movement for LGBT equality in our country: a challenge to California’s prohibition on marriage for same-gender couples, and a challenge to the discriminatory federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), whose own two cases challenging DOMA are currently on hold at the Court, is proud to have played an important role in the latter case, coordinating the filing of amicus curiae – or “friend of the court” – briefs that support overturning DOMA.
On March 26, the Court heard oral arguments in Hollingsworth v. Perry, the challenge to California’s Proposition 8, an amendment to that state’s constitution that rescinded the freedom to marry for same-sex couples. On the following day, the Court heard oral arguments in United States v. Windsor, a case challenging Section 3 of DOMA, which prohibits the federal government from recognizing the legal marriages of same-sex couples for the purposes of federal benefits and programs. The DOMA challenge involves Edith “Edie” Windsor, a New York woman who was forced to pay more than $360,000
in estate taxes after the death of her legal spouse, Thea Spyer — money she would not have had to pay had she been married to a man instead of a woman. Windsor sued the federal government for failing to recognize her marriage. She is represented by attorneys from Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP; the American Civil Liberties Union; the New York Civil Liberties Union and the Stanford Law School Supreme Court Litigation Clinic. But Windsor and her legal team are hardly alone in making the case that DOMA is unconstitutional. More than 45 amicus briefs from religious leaders, members of
For over 30 years We’ve been handing our Clients The same old Line …
“SOLD” Barrington • CumBerland • east greenwiCh • narragansett • ProvidenCe • reloCation 401.245.9600 • 401.333.9333 •
options
q
401.885.8400
april
•
401.783.2474
2013
• 401.274.6740 • 800.886.1775
q
14
Congress, retired military generals, children’s advocacy groups, civil rights groups, American businesses and other individuals and organizations were filed at the Supreme Court supporting Windsor’s arguments against DOMA. “The fact that such a wide range of individuals and organizations are supporting
create and perpetuate a hierarchy that disadvantages gay people based on their sexual orientation.
fits, and have available to them fewer valuable benefits than their counterparts with different-sex spouses.
By categorically excluding gay people from more than a thousand federal protections and obligations that come with marriage, DOMA treats gays and lesbians as
DOMA deprives married gay and lesbian working people and their children of significant benefits associated with employment. Because most Americans obtain health insurance through their own em-
The DOMA challenge involves Edith Windsor, a New York woman who was forced to pay more than $360,000 in estate taxes after the death of her legal spouse, Thea Spyer. Edie based on their experience and expertise shows that there is no defensible argument for DOMA,” said GLAD Civil Rights Project Director Mary Bonauto, who coordinated the amicus effort. “It is critical that so many groups stand with Edie in bringing an end to this discriminatory law that hurts so many legally married same-sex couples.” In addition to coordinating the amicus strategy in Windsor, GLAD also coauthored amicus briefs in both the Windsor and Perry cases with one of our sister LGBT legal organizations, Lambda Legal. Now we wait for the Supreme Court to issue its rulings, which will come before the Court breaks for the summer in late June or early July. This is indeed an exciting moment in LGBT history. Stay tuned.
legally and socially inferior.” Labor (AFL-CIO; Change to Win; National Education Association): “The Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), by intention and design, ensures that workers with same-sex spouses earn less money, pay higher taxes on their wages and bene-
ployer or through their spouse’s employer, DOMA prevents or substantially restricts access to spousal healthcare benefits. DOMA also denies married gay and lesbian couples important protections and benefits provided to other married couples when one spouse suffers a workplace injury or illness. DOMA also impinges on the ability of mar-
Marjorie L. Roblin, LISCW
Marjorie L. Roblin, LISCW Counseling & Psychotherapy Counseling & Psychotherapy Insurance Accepted Insurance Accepted • Adults/Youths • Adults/Youths • Individuals • Individuals• Couples•Couples • Families• Families • Day or Evening Sessions • Day or Evening Sessions
Empathic Empathic Experienced Experienced Effective Effective
Here’s a sampling of arguments some of our amici made against DOMA: NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund --
(401)942-5093
“By virtually any measure, gays and lesbi(401)942-5093 ans have been subjected to systemic discrimination throughout our nation’s history, 30thYear - GLBTQ 30thYear -- GLBTQ resulting in their ongoing subordination as Founder Bryn Mawr Haverford Colleges GSA Cornell-Ithaca GA Mawr Haverford College’s GSA Founder, Bryn a class. And DOMA’s express purpose is to Cornell - Ithaca GA
options
q
april
2013
q
15
CHILDREN ADOLESCENTS ADULTS
Reach our
Depression ADHD
desirable
Anxiety
audience.
Self-esteem Study Skills/ Time Management
For information on advertising, contact us at
Relationships/Intimacy
advertising@optionsri.org John D. DaPonte, CAGS
or 724-LGBT
Mental Health Counselor
401.383.7647
Options Newsmagazine: Read by the Rhode Island LGBT community since 1982.
MAJOR INSURANCES ACCEPTED
ried same-sex couples to plan and provide for retirement. Finally, DOMA unfairly eliminates opportunities for married gay and lesbian couples to work and remain lawfully in the United States.” Service Members and Families (Outserve and SLDN): “The death of Staff Sergeant Donna Johnson illustrates the real-world impact of DOMA. While on her third deployment in Afghanistan, Sgt. Johnson was killed in October 2012, along with two other married soldiers, when a Taliban suicide bomber drove a motorcycle packed with explosives into their patrol. Because of DOMA, the military did not notify Sgt. Johnson’s wife of her death, but instead notified Sgt. Johnson’s mother. Sgt. Johnson’s wedding ring was not returned to her wife, but was given to her mother along with her personal effects. The flag that draped Sgt. Johnson’s coffin was handed to her mother, not to her spouse. And her spouse was denied the spousal death benefits and support services that opposite-sex spouses of fallen soldiers are entitled to receive, including the opposite-sex spouses of the other soldiers killed in the same attack.” Faith Leaders (United Church of Christ; Jewish Theological Seminary; Episcopal bishops of ten states; and dozens more religious institutions): “Eliminating DOMA’s unconstitutional distinction between lawfully married couples solely based on sexual orientation would not change, mandate, control, or interfere with any other party’s religious practices. The religious freedoms embodied in the Constitution guarantee that diverse religious traditions and beliefs, including the sole right to define who can marry religiously, will flourish regardless of changes in civil marriage laws. While amici respect all fellow faiths, including those that embrace different religious views on marriage, it is constitutionally impermissible to impose religious views through civil law to curtail the right of samesex couples to civilly marry.” q
options
q
april
2013
q
16
The Born This Way Prom is April 25
This special event is back for a fourth year! Hard to imagine that anything could be more fabulous than last year. Here are some recollections from past attendees: “Be it trivial or not, going to prom was a childhood fantasy of mine. The first prom I attended was in my senior year of high school. After having my heart broken and not having my Cinderella dream fulfilled, my spirit was crushed, and I never anticipated getting invited to another dance after high school. However, much to my surprise, a wonderful friend of mine invited me to the Born this Way Prom last year. Since I love any excuse to dress up and dance, I said yes without hesitation. The moment I was crowned Queen I felt so blessed and, like a little girl whose father calls her princess, I felt like royalty! Dancing the King and Queen’s waltz was such an amazing finale to the night. That enchanted evening was one that will remain in my mind and heart forever. I’m honored to be invited this year
to crown the next queen and to perform at this year’s Born This Way prom. You never know whose dream you’re bringing to fruition.” - Daví Smith
“In April 2011, I was a college sophomore who was so preoccupied with school and other obligations that I did not get out nearly enough and had almost forgotten what it was like to get out and have a little fun. My friends presented a sort of intervention when they encouraged me to attend this little gay prom that was happening in town. Without hesitation, I put on my best dress and donned heavy make-up to get in spirit for the Lady Gaga theme -- per-
haps a little too much so, for I scared/confused some people with my heavy eyeliner! As soon as I entered the prom scene and stepped onto the dance floor, I got lost into the night, dancing my heart away without any sense of reservation. While also managing to have fun, I found myself very inspired by the members and supporters of the LGBTA community. There was such a diverse range of people, young and old, yet they had all come together in one place that shared the same mission for love and acceptance. Being a part of the prom with them was such an enriching experience, and I know with utmost certainty that I left that dance floor as a better person.” - Kaitlyn Boisvert q
This is an alcohol-free event. Ages Middle School and Up. FOP Lodge, Mitchell’s Lane, Middletown. Students: $20. Special thanks to Channing Church in Newport. Info: Interweave@channingchurch.org.
options
q
april
2013
q
17
options
news comment editorial humor lifestyle calendar coming out You!
For a FREE subscription, write to:
CALL FOR STUDY PARTICIPANTS Do you:
Options
(1)
P.O. Box 6406 Providence, RI 02940
identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer (GLBTQ), and/or are questioning your sexual orientation and/or gender identity, and/ or experience attraction toward members of the same gender?
(2)
attend or have graduated from a religious college, seminary, or university that prohibits GLBTQ expression (e.g., same-gender dating relationships), does not admit openly GLBTQ students or maintains a traditional view of sexuality (e.g., heterosexual marriage only)?
or visit www.optionsri.org
contributions gaily accepted
O ptions is Y our N ewsmagazine !
(3) live in the United States? If you answered yes to all of the above questions and you are at least 18 years old, you may be eligible to participate in a research study. The study is titled “Sexual Minority Youth Experiences in Religious Higher Education: Examining Mental Health, Health-Risk Behaviors and Campus Climate.� The study is being done by Joshua Wolff, Ph.D of Rhode Island College, and Heather Himes, Psy.D, of the National GLBTQ Youth Foundation. It will explore the experiences of sexual minority youth and adults who currently attend, or have previously attended, a private religious college, seminary, or university that prohibits same-gender relationships or other forms of GLBTQ expression. The study involves completing several questionnaires, which may be done anonymously. Completing the questionnaires will take about 15-25 minutes. Responses are kept confidential. Participation is completely voluntary. Each participant will be entered into a raffle to win one of four $25 Amazon. com gift cards.
To learn more visit www.smyresearchstudy.com. The principal investigator may be reached at jwolff@ ric.edu with questions or comments about the study. q
options
q
april
2013
q
18
Youth Pride Inc. Celebrating 50 Years! Kerri Kanelos
Lipsky/Whittaker Scholarship Available Applications are now available for YPI’s Lipsky/Whittaker Scholarship, a fund that supports Rhode Island youth who are involved in activism within the LGBTQ community. Please visit our website to download the application, which is due by Wednesday, May 1.
Day of Silence April 19 The National Day of Silence is a day of action in which students across the country vow to be silent for the day to call attention to the silencing effect of anti-LGBTQ bullying and harassment in schools. Many Rhode Island schools and their Gay/Straight Alliances are holding a variety of events for the Day of Silence. For more information, please visit http://www.dayofsilence.org.
Make-Up Date for Snowed-Out Dance
Monday, April 8 until Friday, April 12 at 4 p.m., when we will open for our rescheduled Valentine’s Day Dance (cancelled thanks to Winter Storm Nemo). All youth ages 13-23 are welcome to attend.
Important Suicide Prevention Training on May 4
LANES
Leigh Reposa, from Rhode Island Student Assistant Services, is presenting a “Signs of Suicide” workshop at Youth Pride, Inc. on Saturday, May 4. The purpose of the workshop is to teach youth how to recognize signs of suicidal behavior in their peers and how to seek help. All youth participants will receive a paid stipend for participating in the training. Please call YPI (421-5626) for more information. Youth Pride Inc. 743 Westminster St., Providence
Our drop-in center at 743 Westminster Street, Providence will be closed from
ll a H Town
421-5626 www.youthprideri.org q
Individual & Couples • Solution-Focused Psychotherapy Meditation Instruction • Insurance Accepted
Home of Big Gay Al’s Bowling League 1463 Atwood Ave. Johnston • 831-6940
Bell Street Chapel A Unitarian Universalist Congregation
A vibrant, accepting, liberal Religious community, we Celebrate diverse beliefs, support individual searches for trust and meaning, and work for social justice. We are a Welcoming Congregation, and we would love to welcome you. Join us. Worship service Sundays at 10 a.m.
All Families Welcome
401-274-7225 | Providence lhandel@gmail.com
options
q
5 Bell Street, Providence (401) 273-5678 www.bellstreetchapel.org april
2013
q
19
Providence Gay Men’s Chorus Bradford Greer
Exciting News! The Providence Gay Men’s Chorus is happy to announce that Kim Kuda is their new Artistic Director. Ms. Kuda is a graduate of Rhode Island College with a B.A. in music, and a B.A. in Communications and Theatre from Miami University of Ohio. She first joined the chorus as the accompanist in 2008 and became the assistant Choral Director to Teresa Coffman. She soon distinguished herself by directing “Kiss ‘n’ Tell” and “Glimmer and Glow,” two successful cabaret fundraising efforts showcasing individual chorus members and featuring Kitty Litter. Kuda also accompanied the chorus at their performance at the GALA conference in Denver. She is the composer of “Out on The Bay” which premiered at last spring’s show and received a standing ovation at GALA. It also earned her a music commission for another chorus. When Dr. Coffman stepped down, Ms. Kuda agreed to step in as interim director while the chorus re-evaluated its goals and
plans for the future. She guided the gentlemen through their next two concerts, “Out on the Bay” and “Happy HoliGays” with skill, style and humor. With a new Board of Directors in place, led by new president Dave O’Brien, an exciting new ensemble has been formed within the chorus. They are 12 singers called the ProviGents. According to Kuda, they will be used to extend the choral outreach into the surrounding communities and help spread the PGMC’s message of diversity and hope. They, as well as the entire chorus, are available to provide musical entertainment for private parties and functions of any size and variety. Other changes include a new logo and a brand new website where one can watch videos of their performances and listen to clips of their music. The Program Development Committee has evolved into the Production Development Committee headed by Mike Crane, which will not only continue to explore concert concepts and generate song lists, but will develop set and lighting pos-
sibilities for each show on a more consistent basis. Their next musical offering this Spring is called “The Colors of Our Lives.” Ms. Kuda describes it this way: “Colors are not just what is found within the box of 64 Crayolas. Color is mood, race, tone, emotion, and all of the things we feel and experience, as well as what we physically see.” This show will take you on a journey as we explore all of the ways color exists in and impacts on our lives.
New Location Part of that journey will be to a new location. “The Colors of Our Lives” will be performed at the Met School at 325 Public Street in Providence. This move will give the chorus a more flexible performing space in which to explore different staging and performance options. That show will be performed Wednesday, June 5 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, June 8 at 7 p.m.; and Sunday, June 9 at 4 p.m.
May Breakfast Preview Celebrate spring with the PGMC and get a sneak preview of “The Colors of our Lives.” The chorus will perform selections from their spring show at a May Breakfast on Saturday, May 4, at Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset Street in Providence. The catered affair will have two seatings: one at 9:30 and the other at 11:15 a.m. Tickets are $20.00 per person. It’s a spring fundraiser and a chance to hear selections from the upcoming show and enjoy the members in a more casual setting. Get your tickets here: http://pgmcspringsing.eventbrite.com or from any PGMC member. This is an exciting time for the PGMC with new leadership, a new logo, a new website and some new chorus members as well. Join with them on May 4 for their May Breakfast and explore “The Colors of Our Lives.” www.provgmc.org q
options
q
april
2013
q
20
SAGE/RI
Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders Sally Ann Hay
There’s No Place Like Home Ah, but what will ‘home’ look like as you age? An LGBT retirement community? In your own home? And what services might you want or need? These and many other questions were discussed at SAGE/RI’s “Let’s Talk About LGBT Elder Housing Options” in March. To set the stage for the discussion we began with two different presentations. Jodi Glass, SAGE/RI Advisory Committee member, shared some of what she and her partner of 32 years have been dealing with and thinking about in their interactions with traditional elder services on behalf of their parents. She showed a provocative video clip showcasing the dilemmas of an older lesbian couple in search of an assisted living program. While they eventually succeed in finding a community that would accept them, the couple faced at one point the prospect of having to ‘act like sisters’ if they were to fit in at another program. Melissa Miranda, a Senior Program Administrator at Healthcentric Advisors, then shared an overview of the research she’s been doing on existing models for LGBT elder housing, highlighting what seems to have worked, what hasn’t, and issues to be considered. With the stage set, the attendees moved on to discuss these issues using a series of probing questions to prompt them in various directions. And what a conversation it was! The attendees were a dynamic mix of professionals, policy makers and, for the most part, older LGBT Rhode Islanders for whom the issue is personal. Issues and ideas raised included the pros and cons of an LGBT identifiable housing community, the need for safety and competent care wherever one is aging, how to have a community while aging in place (continuing to live in one’s home), the importance of diversity
options
q
What will ‘home’ look like as you age? An LGBT retirement community? In your own home? And what services might you want or need?
Visible Lives SAGE/RI was delighted to hear from Bradley Campbell at WRNI (Rhode Island’s NPR station) asking to interview some of our constituents as part of their Silver Boom series. As of this writing, WRNI has aired two of Campbell’s interviews: one with Sally Ann Hay and the other with Ken Fish. Both interviews have been well received and have certainly played a role in helping SAGE/RI increase its visibility. SAGE/RI testified at the House and Senate Judiciary hearings on the issue of equal marriage rights. As a member of the RI United for Marriage Coalition, we are advocating for the legalization of same-gender marriage. We realize that access to these rights have a major impact on the economic and emotional well-being of older LGBT couples and that our single elders will also benefit from this move toward equality.
(economic, relationship status, ethnic) and the importance of ending discrimination within our own LGBT communities. We talked about an array of possibilities: an LGBT complex, an LGBT wing or section within an existing complex, and the need for LGBT-friendly in-home medical and social support systems. The consensus was that this gathering was just the beginning of addressing the issue of LGBT elder housing in RI. A significant outcome of the day was the formation of an ad hoc LGBT Elder Housing Committee of SAGE, chaired by Melissa Miranda and Jodi Glass, and including several people who attended the event. If you want to be included in future meetings, or for information about the committee, contact us at sageriinfo@gmail.com.
april
2013
Come Out and Dine As this issue of Options goes to press, SAGE/RI is planning to take part in Dining Out for Life on Thursday, April 25 to benefit AIDS Project RI. We haven’t chosen a restaurant yet – stay tuned via email or Facebook for more details. What? You aren’t on our email list and/or you haven’t ‘liked’ us on Facebook yet? No time like the present; we’ll be glad to hear from you.
SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) addresses issues of concern to LGBT elders and is an organization of diverse people of all ages. For information on programs or to join SAGE/RI, drop us a line at sageriinfo@gmail.com or find us on Facebook as Sage/Rhode Island. q
q
21
Batters Up!
AIDS Care Ocean State
A new season of LGBTQ Softball
Kalene Brennan
The 3rd Annual King of Queens Mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual King of Queens fundraiser for AIDS Care Ocean State. This year’s fiercest drag show will take place on Sunday, May 5, at the Colosseum. Each contestant is given a Drag Mother to mentor her, and help her choose
opening day: may 5
Bingo is Almost Over!
If your company, organization or club would like to sponsor a team, please contact Phil Lagoy at 489-6011 or asst_commish@providencesoftball.org
The 2012-2013 Bingo season, which benefits the vital programs of ACOS, is coming to a close, and how the time has flown by!
oys mer! b e h t t r Suppod girls of sum an Renaissance City Softball League
Mark your calendars today: April 18: TV Land Gay Bingo -- dress as your favorite TV personality. May 16: It’s a Very Kitty World Gay Bingo -- dress like Kitty Litter.
Plumbing by Paul “We do it right in your home.”
New . Old . Big . Small . We Do It . Right .
225-0561 Licensed, Insured, Guaranteed, Honest, Clean
options Read by LGBTQ Rhode Islanders since 1982 Have you made a contribution recently? www.optionsri.org
P.O. Box 6406 • Providence, RI 02940
options
q
her look, song, and performance style for the show. Then we have all the contestants give the show of their life! There will be glitter, glamour and lots of fake eyelashes. King of Queens has become one of our most fabulous events all year. Stay tuned to see who will be performing and we’ll see you all on Sunday, May 5 -- doors open at 6 p.m., and tickets are $15.00. Visit www.aidscareos.org for more information.
april
2013
June 13: A very special Gay Pride Bingo for RI Pride -- wear your Pride colors. Bingo has been such a huge success thanks to our supporters and season sponsors. We would like to thank Mister Sister, Big Gay Al’s Bowling League, Town Hall Lanes, Pelletier & Clark, GALA Bowling League, Whole Foods, PharmaHealth Pharmacy, The Stable, Amazing Intimate Essentials, the Imperial Court of Rhode Island, Providence Performing Arts Center, Gold’s Gym, The Comedy Connection, Pepsi, The Stadium Theatre, Get Magazine, Bravo Brasserie, Blaze Eastside and Sun in the City for being our season sponsors. We still have a few slots left to be a monthly sponsor. If you’re interested, please contact Stephen Hartley 521-3603 or e-mail at stephenh@aidscareos.org. AIDS Care Ocean State 557 Broad St., Providence 521-3603 www.aidscareos.org q
q
22
AIDS Project Rhode Island Amy Stein
Dine Out to Support AIDS Project Rhode Island’s Dining Out For Life Event April 25 Please mark your calendars for Thursday, April 25, to DINE OUT in support of AIDS Project Rhode Island’s Dining Out for Life Fundraiser. This year we expect over thirty participating restaurants in Rhode Island to join us in supporting efforts to prevent HIV and provide services for people living with HIV/AIDS. These restaurants generously donate a portion of their proceeds to APRI from the night of the event. Our goal is to get as many restaurants on board as possible, and get them filled with diners the evening of the event! Longtime NBC 10 news anchor and reporter Mario Hilario is chairing this year’s event. Hilario has been anchoring NBC 10 Weekend Sunrise since 1997, has won an Associated Press award,
and is a five-time Emmy award nominee. He also volunteers his time at a number of nonprofit organizations. “We are most fortunate to have his assistance this year as we work to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in Rhode Island and to raise funds to prevent its spread and to help people living with HIV/AIDS,” said event coordinator Amy Stein.
nity-based HIV testing to help people know their status,” he said. Here are ways you can contribute to make this the best Dining Out for Life event ever: TT
AIDS Project RI executive director Thomas Bertrand, MPH, pointed out that, according to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately one of five people living with HIV in the United States do not even know that they are
TT
TT
infected. “Funds raised via Dining Out for Life help AIDS Project RI conduct commu-
If you or somebody that you know has a connection with any Rhode Island restaurant, please let us know. We will work with you to reach out to the restaurant to invite them join us. Become a liaison between APRI and one of our restaurants and their guests. Go out to eat at one of our participating restaurants on April 25 and bring your friends and family. Participating restaurants include Blaze Eastside, Bluefin Grille, The Burrito Company, CAV, Cuban Revolution (Aborn and Valley St. locations), Cucina & The Grille, Garden Grille, Gracie’s, Grille on Main, Matunuck Oyster Bar, New Rivers, Pizzico, Rasoi, Red Fez, Rue De L’Espoir, SpeakEasy’s, Twist, Waterplace and many more!
To learn more, contact Amy Stein at Amy@aidsprojectri.org. Check out our website (www.aidsprojectri.org) to learn about Dining Out for Life as well as the services it supports. q
GREGORY’S OPTICAL
263 Wickenden Street • Providence • 401-421-4770
Face A Face L.A. Eyeworks Silhouette Olivier Peoples Alain Mikli Theo La Font
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat. 10-4 Closed Sunday
options
q
april
2013
q
23
Rhode Island Pride
Advertise
subscribe
Jennifer Stevens
q options
Volunteer!
your community newsmagazine
Get Involved!
We want to meet you
The PrideFest 2013 season is in full swing, so entertainers, vendors, organizations, parade contingents and advertisers should visit www.prideri.com to submit their applications as soon as possible, as decisions are imminent and sell-outs inevitable. While our work certainly culminates around the big day on June 15, we’re hosting events year-round, like RI Pride Honors or last month’s Goddess Show, and one of our favorites is just around the corner... Find out who will be crowned Mr. Gay, Ms. Lesbian and Miss Gay RI 2013 at the annual RI Pride Triple Crown Pageant on Sunday, April 7, at the Biltmore Hotel Ballroom in Providence. This year’s theme, “Stay Tuned: A Celebration of TV Through the Years,” will have competitors in all three categories masquerading as some of your favorite television personalities, in addition to competing in the traditional interview, talent, formal wear and question rounds before a panel of “celebrity” judges. The “Crowned Ones” will go on to raise muchneeded funds and visibility for the Rhode Island Pride organization throughout the year ahead.
Mr. Gay 2012 being crowned by Mr. Gay 2011. JDHS Photography
Rhode Island Pride 1005 Main St. #1005 Pawtucket www.prideri.com 467-2130 q
Please visit www.prideri.com to reserve your Triple Crown table or tickets, apply for PrideFest or to find out about upcoming meetings and ways to connect.
like
options q NEWSMAGAZINE
on
info@optionsri.org
724-LGBT options
q
april
2013
q
24
Imperial Court of Rhode Island
Know your status.
Austen Bourassa
Coronation XXI The Black and White Ball:
April 25 – 28 On the weekend of April 25-28, the Imperial Court of Rhode Island at Providence (ICRI) will celebrate its twenty-first anniversary. Throughout these years, the Court has helped to raise over $500,000 for 501(c)3 organizations in Rhode Island and neighboring Massachusetts. Some of the organizations that have been aided by the Court include The Autism Project of Rhode Island, Sojourner House, RI Pride, Aids Care Ocean State, A.I.D.S. New Bedford and the Providence Animal Rescue League. Like any organization with this much longevity, there have been years of struggle and years of success. Anyone involved in the organization will tell you that ICRI’s existence and dedication to the community is its success. Without a community believing in the Court, the Court would have no community to give back to. This year’s candidates are: Scott McMahon (Scottie Too Hottie, Mr. Gay RI 2009) for Emperor, and Dark Lady crowd favorite, Gia Devaroux for Empress. What better way to say you support the mission of this organization then by attending coronation? This year’s coronation beneficiaries are The Autism Project Rhode Island and A.I.D.S. New Bedford. Another wonderful addition to this year’s festivities is ICRI’s first honorary ball chair – Buddy Cianci! Ticket Information and Schedule of Events: Thursday, April 25: In Town Awards (Free), Mirabar, 15 Elbow Street, Providence, RI. 7 – 9 p.m. Come by and meet some of the local court members and learn more about the court.
Call AIDS Care Ocean State’s Prevention Office at 401-781-0665 to schedule an appointment for FREE anonymous and confidential HIV and HEP C testing.
Get tested.
PORTRAITS
A Celebration of Noble Deeds Continues
JDHSPHOTOS.COM
Friday, April 26: Out of Town Show ($10), Historic Biltmore Hotel Garden Room. 8 p.m. Come and meet individuals from courts from all over the country and Canada. Saturday, April 27: Coronation XX ($80), the Providence Biltmore Grand Ballroom. Voting is from 6 - 9 p.m. with a valid ID from Rhode Island and surrounding Massachusetts communities and a purchased ticket. Cocktails at 6 p.m. Ballroom doors will open at 7 p.m. Show
options
q
april
401.624.6698 JDHSPhotos@verizon.net
JDHS Photos 2013
q
25
to begin at 8 p.m. Celebrate the 20th anniversaries of W. Fitzgerald Himmelsbach (deceased) and Lee Daniels, the 15th anniversaries of Scott Connery and Jazzmine Taylor, the 10th anniversaries of Michael Sousa and Jazzmine Taylor and the 5th anniversaries of Belle Pellegrino and Diana Prince.
Throughout [the] years, the Court has helped to raise over $500,000 for 501(c)3 organizations in Rhode Island and neighboring Massachusetts.
Sunday, April 28: Victory Brunch $35, 9:30 a.m., the Providence Biltmore Grand Ballroom. To purchase tickets please go to: http://coronationxxi.eventbrite.com. To learn more about ICRI, to submit program advertising, or to become a member please visit: www.icriprov.org. q
TAKE CHARGE! GET TESTED!
FREE, painless, rapid, anonymous HIV testing. Now offering individual and couples testing.
Visit: www.aidsprojectri.org
Photo from last year’s Coronation. JDHS Photography.
takecharge@aidsprojectri.org Call: (401) 207-8377
Welcoming LGBT professionals and their friends
A membership organization focused on: • Shared Member Contact Information • Professional Networking • Philanthropic Causes • Member benefits n e t w o r k
options
q
april
2013
q
For more information please contact Frank Maher at (401) 453-9276, visit RI AGP on Facebook or by email at gayprofessionalnetworkofri@gmail.com.
n o w
26
!
Classified Advertising
Resources Help us help you: If you come across a resource listing that is incorrect or needs updating, please let us know! Drop a line to mshays@verizon.net.
Got an apartment to rent? Condo to sell? Looking for a housemate?
NOTE: All phone numbers are in the 401 area code unless otherwise indicated.
Send us 30 words and a check for $30, and we’ll publish it in the very next issue. Send ad to advertising@optionsri.org, and payment to P.O. Box 6406, Providence, RI 02940 • housing ads only •
Addiction Support Groups AA: Brothers in Sobriety, Community Church of Prov., Wayland & Lloyd Aves., Prov., 751-9328; Sat., 7:30-8:30 p.m.; Central Services, info on all groups, 438-8860; Lesbian and Gay, Anchor Recovery Center, 249 Main St., Pawtucket, Tues. 7:30 p.m.; Suburban Gay & Lesbian, Fatima Shrine, Rt. 126, Holliston, MA, Thurs. 8-9:30 p.m. Alcohol/Drug Helpline. RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, 24-hr., (866) 252-3784. Gay Al-Anon: Tues. 7:30 p.m., Congregational Church, 71 Park Place, Pawtucket, 726-2800.
office space East Side/East Bay Mental Health Professional Offices Available. Convenient Location Off I-195. Two Available, $650/Month/Office. Rent Includes Private Office Space, Waiting Room and Bathroom. Please Call Elizabeth @ (401) 447-4551.
AIDS/Health Resources ACT-UP (AIDS Coalition To Unleash Power), a group of individuals united in anger, committed to ending AIDS pandemic through direct action. Call Scott 640-3108. info@actupri.org. Donations welcome! Afia Center for Health & Wholeness: socializing with other HIV+ individuals. Meals, food pantry, HIV support groups, recovery groups, recreational and social activities. Wed & Thurs, noon to 4 p.m., at Matthewson St. Church, 134 Matthewson St., Prov. Sponsored by AIDS Project RI; free to clients. Gordon Cooper, 331-1350 Ext. 3268 or coopergo@familyserviceofri.org. AIDS Action Hotline: (800) 235-2331, MA only. AIDS Care Ocean State (557 Broad St., Providence): case mgmt., emergency funds, mental health & nutrition support, FACTS Nursery, housing for PWAs, referrals, advocacy, ADa.m.S Clinic for adolescents, street outreach, ENCORE, education, HIV+ support groups. Sunrise Community Housing for people with HIV/AIDS. 18 Parkis Ave., Prov. 02907. 521-3603; www.aidscareos.org. AIDS Project RI Division of Family Service of RI: Case mgmt., buddies, COBRA & dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment & referral, wellness prog., advocacy, strength training. Prevention Ed. 404 Wickenden St., Providence: 831-5522. AIDS Quilt RI: Displays local AIDS Memorial Quilt panels; panel-making programs, including Anna’s Workshop, HIV/AIDS education for young people; PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 4344880; www.aidsquiltri.org; admin@aidsquiltri.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA A private, romantic cottage, ideal for a couple. Enjoy our 11-acre waterfront property in one of Prince Edward Island’s most spectacular locations on the North Shore. Weekly $1000. Non-smokers please. anne2817@cox.net.
ARE YOU ON OUR RESOURCES PAGES? Is your club, organization or house of worship listed in this section of Options? Please review your listing now. Is it accurate? Kindly let us know of any necessary changes by emailing mshays@verizon.net. We can serve our readers best when our listings are up to date. Thank you. options
q
april
2013
org; annasworkshop@aidsquiltri.org. Brown Univ. AIDS Program (BRUNAP): clinical trials, public policy, research; lectures/conferences, patient/community education. Bradford Briggs, 863-6790. brunap@brown.edu; www.brown. edu/brunap. Chiropractic Services: Free for unemployed HIV+ patients, Ronald P. Marsh, DC., 11 King Charles Dr., Portsmouth, RI; 683-1941. Comprehensive Community Action Programs (CCAP) Medical, mental health, dental, social services. 311 Doric Ave., Cranston. 467-9610. Also Coventry and Warwick. Sarah Bowman, LGBT Outreach. Crossroads RI Health Care Services: Free, confidential, anonymous HIV counseling & testing for homeless/at risk: Mon & Wed, 1-3 p.m., call Gloria, 521-2255, Ext. 325. FACTS (Family AIDS Center for Treatment & Support): See AIDS Care Ocean State. Gabriel Care, LLC: Nursing/social worker case mgmt. & financial compensation for assistance and supervision for those living with HIV. MA Health funded for MA residents. Michael (508) 678-1002. HIV antibody testing, Anonymous: R.I. Dept. of Health, Prov., Newport and other locations, Free or sliding scale, call 222-2320. Home and Hospice Care of RI: Medical care mgmt. for HIV/AIDS. 24-hr. nursing staff for treatment. 782-0725. Bereavement Groups: John Charette, 727-7079. HPV study for gay/bi men ages 18 -- 26. Receive free HPV vaccine and HIV testing. Must be HIVnegative. Call Gail at Miriam Hospital (7934335) or Email gyates@lifespan.org. House of Compassion: HIV/AIDS housing. 2510 Mendon Rd., Cumberland. 658-3992. Jewish AIDS Task Force: Programs for HIV/AIDS and Jewish communities. 421-4111, ext. 172. LGBT Caregiver Online Support Group for LGBTs caring for someone with chronic health problems, visit www.caregiver.org and click on groups. Luis E. Martinez House CHS, Inc.: Supportive, permanent housing for 10 adults living with HIV/ AIDS and/or substance abuse. New Bedford, MA. Contact Joe Taylor (508) 984-7514. Partners in Learning About AIDS (PL-AIDS) Outreach to minorities, women of color, and LGBT community at clubs and other locations, and our No. Providence office, providing free condoms and information about STIs and post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. www.plaidsproject.org or www.pl-aids.org. Email info@plaidsproject.org.
q
27
305-3993. Project ACT: Free Anonymous HIV Counseling and Testing. Walk-in Hours: Mondays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Other hours by appointment only. 1 Washington St., Taunton, MA (508) 977-8146 Project Empower: Wellness prog. for gay, bi, questioning men in So. Coast MA. Info on HIV/ STD test sites & safe sex; social/support groups, therapists & health care referrals; & more. Community Counseling of Bristol Co., MA. (508) 828-6692 or www.projectempower.com. SSTAR (Stanley St. Treatment & Resources): counseling, drug treatment, detox, domestic violence programs; Free, confidential HIV, HEP C (HCV) & STD testing, education, case mgmt. and support. 386 Stanley St., Fall River, MA 02720. (508) 679-5222. Project Aware (HIV/ HCV) (800) 937-3610, Family Healthcare center (508) 675-1054; www.sstar.org. Tranquil Mind & Wellness: Counseling, alternative healing, yoga, Pilates, meditation and more. 105 Charles Eldridge Dr, Lakeville, MA. (508) 9471683. Thundermist Health Assoc.: 450 Clinton St. Woonsocket, provides HIV/AIDS services including: medical care & treatment by an HIV specialist, dental care, behavioral health counseling, nutritional assessment & counseling, pharmacy consultation, free, confidential HIV testing. Philip Kane 767-4100 Ext. 3516.
Be There and Be Queer! The Alley Cat/Dark Lady: 17 Snow St. Prov. 2730951 Downtown neighborhood bars. Sun.-Thur. 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 3 p.m.-2 a.m. http:// thealleycat.net. Bobby’s Place, 62 Weir St., Taunton, MA (508) 8249997. Dancing, pool, video lounge, karaoke. Mon.-Thurs. 5 p.m.- 1 a.m.; Fri. 5 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 2 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun. 2 p.m.-1 a.m. www.BobbysPlaceMA.com. Brooklyn Coffee Tea House: 209 Douglas Ave., Prov. 575-2284. Special events space. Open mike First & Third Sat. of each month. Film screenings and other public/private events. See us on Facebook and at www.BrooklynCoffeeTeaHouse.com. Club Body Center: 257 Weybosset St., Prov. 2740298 www.clubbodycenter.com. Gay men’s sauna. Membership required. One-day pass available. Open 24 hours daily. Club Gallery, 681 Valley Street., Providence. DJ, dancing. Deville’s: 345 South Water St., Prov. Lesbian, gay, straight, it’s all good. 383-8883, www.devillescafe.com. Luna’s Ladies Night, Fridays 8 p.m. -- 1a.m. Female performers and DJs. 276 Westminster St., Providence. www.lunaspvd.com. Providence Eagle: 198 Union St., Prov. 421-1447. Leather, Levi, bear cruise bar. Sun-Thurs 3 p.m.1 a.m., Fri, Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m. Mega-Plex and Hush Providence: 257 Allens Ave., Prov. www.themega-plex.com. Gay men’s bathhouse. Open 24 hours daily. Membership required. One day pass available.
options
q
The Stable: 125 Washington St., Prov. 272-6950. Newly renovated downtown bar. Pool table. Sun - Thurs noon - 1 a.m.; Fri - Sat noon - 2 a.m. Tommy’s Lounge Gay/Lesbian Night each Friday (21-plus) Doors open 8 p.m. Music from 80’s, 90’s and today’s hits on the video screen. $5.00 cover. 99 India Street, Pawtucket RI 02860 T.W.I.S.T. Program Coffee Night: Coffee, light snacks served every Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. 1287 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford. 508-672-0378. Union: 200 Union St. Prov. 831-5366. Video lounge, live entertainment. Sun. 6 p.m.-1 a.m., Mon.-Thur. 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 6 p.m.-2 a.m.
Information/Education Feminist Voices: women’s chorus. www.feministvoices.com. Fenway Gay and Lesbian Helpline: support, info & referrals for GLBT community from Fenway Community Health Ctr., Boston; (617) 267-9001 or 888-340-4528, 6-11 p.m. seven days a week. GLBT National Help Center Hotline. Local resources nationwide provided by social services agency. 888-843-4564. www.GLBTNationalHelpcenter.org. NewportOut.com: LGBT Web site for Newport, RI. RILGBT-NEWS: Low-volume email distribution list for LGBT & AIDS news from RI. Not a discussion list. To subscribe: tinawood@cox.net. United Way of RI Referral Line: 2-1-1 Youth Pride, Inc. HIV Peer Educators: discussion, games, thought-provoking and empowerment activities. Led by trained youth educators. Free. 421-5626.
org or call 941-2727. 118 No. Main St., Unit 3, Providence RI 02903. PO Box 5884, Providence RI 02903 The Next Thing (TNT): political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. Contact the Brown Queer Alliance, 8633062. Rhode Islanders United for Marriage: Broadbased grassroots coalition working to achieve the unique protections and recognition of civil marriage for all loving couples in the state. 2741323. Office 3 Center St., Providence. (PO Box 5883, Providence RI 02903) www.RIUnitedforMarriage.org. RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: hate crime awareness training program www.hatecrimeri. org. RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit, 180 Westminster St., 3rd floor Prov. Phone: 222-2662. Fax: 222-2616, TDD: 2222664. RI Patient Advocacy Coalition: legalization of marijuana use for medical purposes. www.RIpatients.org. RI Socialist Action: adgagneri@gmail.com. 9525385. Español: walsil@cox.net. 351-3414 Servicemembers Legal Defense Network: Assisting active duty service members affected by the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. PO Box 65301, Wash., DC, 20035; (202) 328-3244, ext. 100, sldn@sldn.org, www.sldn.org. Straight But Not Narrow Coalition: Straight support for LGBT, PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 847-7637.
Religious Resources
Political & Legal Groups American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 831-7171; 128 Dorrance St., Suite 220, Prov., RI 02903. Amnesty International OUTfront: Program to campaign globally for LGBTIQ human rights. Cvohs18904@yahoo.com or 212-807-8400. Visit www.amnestyusa.org/Our Issues/LGBT Human Rights. BIGFLAG (Boston Immigration Group for Lesbians And Gays): social/support for LGBTs affected by immigration discrimination. (617) 499-9433. Brown University Queer Alliance: student advocacy and support organization. 683-3062. Email: queer@brown.edu Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): LGBT/HIV legal info hotline, 1:30-4:30 p.m. weekdays, (800) 455-GLAD. www.GLAD.org; 30 Winter St., Ste 800, Boston, MA 02108. Green Party of RI: PO Box 1151, Prov., RI 02901; 490-7602. Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall St., Suite 1500, NY, NY 10005; (212) 8098585, Fax: (212) 809-0055. Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD): Advocates for lgbt causes. lawyersforequality@gmail. com Marriage Equality RI (MERI): Works for equal access to marriage for all. www.marriageequalityri.
april
2013
All Saints’ Memorial Church, 674 Westminster St., Providence. 751-1747 www.allsaintsmemorial. org. asmcri@verizon.net Amicable Congregational Church (UCC), 3736 Main Rd., Tiverton. Open & Affirming. Sunday worship 10:00 a.m. Pastor William Sterrett, 624-4611. Email amicablechurch@aol.com Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists, email: mail@WABaptists.org. Barrington Congregational Church (UCC) “the white church”, 461 Old County Rd., Barrington. 246-0111.www.bccucc.org Bell Street Chapel (Unitarian Universalist), A Welcoming congregation: 5 Bell St., Prov., Rev. Ann Willever. 273-5678, www.bellstreetchapel.org. Beneficent Congregational Church (UCC), in the heart of Providence at 300 Weybosset St. An Open & Affirming congregation since 2001. Visit us Sundays at 10 a.m. or on the Web at www.beneficentchurch.org. Co-Pastors Todd & Nicole Yonkman, 331-9844. Berean Baptist Church, a safe and welcoming place for all God’s children. 474 Chapel St., Harrisville, RI. www.bereanri.org; bereanbaptist@verizon.net. 568-5411. Worship 10 a.m. Sundays. Calvary Episcopal Church, Open and welcoming. 158 Broad St., Burrilville, RI. 568-3888. www. calvaryepiscopal.us.email, calvary125@aol.com.
q
28
Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Rd., Middletown, RI 02842. 8476181. Ask Amy about LGBTQ Early Dementia support group. Central Congregational Church (UCC), where we believe God is still speaking. Services Sunday, 10:30 a.m. An Opening & Affirming Congregation. 296 Angell St., East Side of Providence. 331-1960. www.centralchurch.us. Channing Memorial Church, Unitarian Universalist, A Welcoming Congregation, 135 Pelham St., Newport. Call 846-0643 or visit www.channingchurch.org. Charter Oak Grove ADF, an open and welcoming congregation of neopagan druids in CT. www. charteroakadf.org. Email charteroakadf@gmail. com. Christ Church in Lonsdale (Episcopal), 1643 Lonsdale Ave., Lincoln. Services 8 and 10:30 a.m. www.christchurchlincoln.org. 725-1920. Church of the Epiphany, 1336 Pawtucket Ave., Rumford. 434-5012. A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. www.epiphanyep.org Church of the Holy Paraclete, Independent Old Catholic; Mass every Sunday at 6 p.m. 155 Douglas Ave., Providence. http://holyparaclete. org; Fr. Jakob Lazarus 218-0706. Emmanuel Episcopal Church. 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland RI 02864. 658-1506. First Congregational Church in Bristol, an Open and Affirming Congregation. 281 High Street, Bristol. Pastor Dan Randall, 253-7288. First Unitarian Church. A Welcoming congregation at One Benevolent St., Prov.; 421-7970. Services Sunday 10:30 a.m. First Unitarian Church. 71 8th St., New Bedford, MA 02740. (508) 994-9686. First Universalist Society, Franklin, MA: UUA Welcoming congregation. Same-gender weddings. 262 Chestnut St. (508) 528-5348. www.fusf.org. Email fusf@verizon.net Foxboro Universalist Church, Unitarian Universalist Association. 6 Bird St., Foxboro, MA 02035. 508-543-4002. Welcoming congregation, marriage ceremonies. www.uufoxborough.org Grace Episcopal Church in Providence, 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225. Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation, 647 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA 02703. Pastor Sandra Demmler Damico (508) 222-2898, www.immanuellc.org. Interweave at Channing UU Church in Newport, 135 Pelham St. A membership organization for the spiritual, political and social well-being of LGBTQ persons -- and their allies -- confronting oppression. 846-0643. Mathewson St. Church (United Methodist), 134 Mathewson St., Prov., 331-8900. Meditation: Gay Men’s Meditation Experience. Relax and connect. Third Tues. of each month in Cranston, 7 -- 8 p.m. Tim, 944-0723. Fee applies. Mercy of God Community: Christian, inclusive religious order. If you feel called, please visit our Web site: www.mgc.org. Murray Unitarian Universalist Church, 505 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA, 02702 Rev. Sandra D. Fitz-Henry. Marriage & commitment ceremo-
options
q
nies for all. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org Newman Congregational Church, Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Ave., Rumford, RI. 43114742. Newport Congregational Church: UCC. Rev. Hayes & Rev. Baker. Open & Affirming. 73 Pelham St., Newport. 849-2238 or nccucc@newportcongregationalchurch.org. Park Place Congregational Church, 71 Park Pl., Pawtucket, 726-2800. The Pub Church: A church that meets in a pub! Saturdays, 5 p.m. at The Dugout, 722 Commonwealth Ave. Boston. Open & Affirming. Email thepubchurch@gmail.com. Location may change. Pilgrim Lutheran Church, an inclusive congregation: 1817 Warwick Ave., Warwick. 739-2937 Pilgrim United Church of Christ. Open and affirming. 635 Purchase St., New Bedford. 508-9975684. Riverside Church (U.C.C.) 15 Oak Ave., Riverside, RI. 433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 35 Lower College Rd., Kingston. 783-2153 www.staugustineURI.com. St. Francis City Ministry at the Church of St. Mary, 535 Broadway, Prov. Office of LGBT Outreach 353-1422 St. James Church: Episcopal, 474 Fruit Hill Ave., No. Prov. 353-2079. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 50 Orchard St. East side of Prov., 751-2141 St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: County & River Sts., New Bedford, MA. (508) 994-8972, stmartins1887@aol.com. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 50 Park Place, Pawtucket. 728-4300. www.stpaulspawtucket.org St. Paul’s Church, a Welcoming Episcopal church. 2679 E. Main St., Portsmouth. 862-1466. www. stpaulsportsmouthri.org St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church: 25 Pomona Ave., Prov.; 272-9649. Email.stpanda25@ verizon.net. www.stpetersandstandrews.org. Saint Therese Old Catholic Church, Open & Affirming, Sunday Mass at 10:30 p.m. at 134 Mathewson St., Providence. Fr. David Martins, 263-4296. www.saintthereseocc.org Second Congregational Church of Attleboro (UCC) Open & Affirming. 50 Park Street, Attleboro, MA. Sunday worship 10 a.m. (508) 222-4677, www.attleborosecondchurch.org Seekonk Congregational Church: 600 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, MA. 02771, (508) 336-9355, Rev. Joy Utter, www.scc-ucc.com. Temple Agudas Achim: GLBT-friendly, Reconstructionist cong. Rabbi Elyse Wechterman. 901 No. Main St., Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2243 or www.agudasma.org. Temple Beth-El: GLBT-welcoming. Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Ave., Prov., RI 02906. 3316070 Temple Emanu-El, Sessions St. & Morris Ave., Providence. A welcoming Conservative congregation. Rabbi Wayne Franklin, 331-1616. www. teprov.org Temple Habonim: a warm, Welcoming Reform congregation. Rabbi Andrew Klein, 165 New
april
2013
Meadow Rd., Barrington, 245-6536. www.templehabonim.org. Temple Sinai: A Welcoming Reform Temple. Rabbi Peter Stein, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston, RI. 9428350. www.TempleSinairi.org. Unitarian Society of Fairhaven (MA): 102 Green St., Fairhaven, MA 02719; (508) 992-7081. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of So. County: 27 North Rd., Peace Dale, RI; 783-4170 or Val 789-7282. www.uusouthcountyri.org. United Church of Christ: Coalition for LGBT Concerns. 13 Steven Circle, S. Kingstown, RI 02883, Ray Bradley at 782-3871. Westminster Unitarian/Universalist Church: 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich, RI 02818. 884-5933
Social Organizations Atheists/Agnostics: RI Atheist Society – “Working to keep Church and State separate” Welcoming all. Meets 3rd Monday of the month at an area restaurant for lively discussions among likeminded people. For info: www.RIatheist.net Bisexual Resource Center: 29 Stanhope St., Boston, (617) 424-9595 or www.biresource.net. Biversity Boston: Mixed-sex social network. Bimonthly brunches and other social events. http://biversity.org. Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches, coming out groups, and quarterly newsletter “Bi Woman.” Subscribe at www.biwomenboston.org. Bears Ocean State (BOS): Informal e-group for gay & bisexual bear-identified and -affiliated men for friendly companionship. All welcome. http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/bearsoceanstate or bearsoceanstate-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. Age-restricted. Bridgewater State College GLBT Alumni Group: email Kenneth Hayes (‘91) khayesbbc@msn.com or visit www.bridgew.edu. Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGYA): (508) 778-7744. CORISMA: Gay and lesbian couples of RI and Southeast MA. Potluck get-togethers for couples only. For info or to be added to email list write: corismainfo@comcast.net. www.corismagroup. org Defenders/Providence: Leather/Levi club, c/o PO Box 41153, Prov., RI 02940. Third Sun at 6 p.m. Fall River’s Rainbow Girls: private, moderated welcoming group for women in the Fall River Area. groups.yahoo.com/group/ Fall_River_Rainbow_Grrls. Gay Lesbian Alliance of Newport County Etc. (GLANCE): Social and entertainment events. E-mail glance1234@hotmail.com. Gay Dads Group: Meets monthly for socializing and support. E-mail serrel30@aol.com. Imperial Court of RI at Prov: Male, female, drag king & queen performers raise funds for local charities. Meetings 1st Mon. of month, all welcome. PO Box 6583, Prov., RI 02904;www. icriprov.org. Lesbian Writers Group, Rochambeau Library, Hope St., Providence. Mondays 7 -- 8:30 p.m.
q
29
Writing exercises, support. No critiquing or workshopping. Free. Russian or Computer Room. Men’s Card Group: New group in formation. E-mail johninprov@gmail.com or call John 261-9715. Men’s Gay Camping: In RI, CT, MA. Gatherings organized for tents to RVs during Spring, Summer and Fall 2012. www.webspawner.com/users/gaycamping/index.html or call 277-0075 or email gaycamping@gmx.com. Mixed Borders Gardening Group: Gardening and more! Monthly meetings, all welcome! For more information: www.MixedBorders.com or E-Mail Mixedborders@cox.net Opera Club: last Sunday of each month at 1:00 p.m. Enjoy hearing and attending. Email Dave at BrettCornellpi4@aol.com Pawtuxet Pride: GLBTQ folks & friends in Pawtuxet Village (Cranston and beyond). All welcome. Call Ed at 345-1264 or email EDZL@aol.com. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus: Mon, 7-9:30 p.m., Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset St, Prov.. New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and nonsinging volunteers welcome. www.provgmc.org. Queer Book Club. Meets 3rd Wednesday 7 p.m. at Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. Email queerbookclub@gmail.com. Raging Grannies: Women of “a certain age” working toward a more peaceful, equitable society with song, humor & passion. Will sing for rallies & events. Email jlglass53@aol.com. RI Association of Gay Professionals. Professional networking and philanthropy. gayprofessionalnetworkofri@gmail.com. 453-9276 RI Lesbian Social Club: social gatherings for women. heylari@yahoo.com or call 272-2962. RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children. Contact Melanie, 464-2288 or saphicangel120@yahoo.com RI Pride: Parade & Festival, year-round events; Box 1082, Prov. RI 02901, info@PrideRI.com; www. PrideRI.com. Office at 1005 Main St. #1105, Pawtucket. 467-2130 RI Prime Timers. Social and networking group for gay and bisexual men 40 and older. Meets 2nd Sundays. www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010. RI Skeptics Society. Yearning to talk with someone rational? Meetings 4th Saturday at a Seekonk restaurant for refreshing discussion. http:// skeptics.meetup.com/133/ RI Women’s Association: Lesbian social group; age 21+; dances/events. www.RIWA.net SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) Advocacy, education and social events for RI’s LGBTQ seniors. sageriinfo@gmail.com, on Facebook: “Sage/Rhode Island.” SEMASSMEN: Social group for GBQ men of S.E. Mass and RI to foster strong friendships.Semassmen-subscribe@yahoo groups.com or email moderator rlevass @yahoo.com. Trans Queer RI: friendship, fun activities, and support for transgender, queer & like-minded people. Gatherings third Sunday of each month. Email trans.queer.ri@gmail.com. T.W.I.S.T. Project: Program for gay and bisexual men in Fall River/New Bedford area. Drop-in center, referrals, condom distribution, social
options
q
groups. Coffee night Thursdays 7 – 9 p.m. (508) 672-0378; www.myspace.com/twistprogram. UNISONG: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. www.unisong. net or jlglass53@aol.com WomenRIsing. Feminist Chorus. Director Nancy Rosenberg. www.womenrisingchorus.org. Email: contact@womenrisingchorus.org. Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for GLBT people interested in vintage & specialty cars. www.yankeelcc.com, sisherwood@aol.com.
Sports PRIDESPORTSBOSTON: Network of twenty-plus gay sports leagues/teams in Boston area: www. pridesportsboston.com 617-937-5858 Gay sports in Boston and beyond: www.gaysports. com. Email info@gaysports.com. BASKETBALL: Boston Gay Basketball League: www.bgbl.com or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 2. BOWLING: RI GALA: 6 p.m. Sun., East Prov. Lanes, Newport Ave., Bruce, 397-3803, or Bill, 828-5587 www.galabowling.com. Monday Night Women’s Bowling League, Pat 451-2188. Royal Court Bowling League: 9 p.m. Wed., Woonsocket Hill Bowl; 767-2110. Big Gay Al’s Duckpin bowling league: Tuesdays 6:30 p.m., Proceeds benefit AIDS causes. Town Hall Lanes, Johnston. www.BGALBowling.com. Frank Ferri 831-6940. www.townhalllanes.com. BOWLING: BOSTON: Monday Night League, www.mnbl.net (617) 713-4832 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 5; Beantown No. G&L Invitational, www. beantownbowling.com (617) 738-0708 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 10; Beantown South G&L Invitational League, (617) 889-1552. DARTS: Beantown Soft-Tip Dart League www.bsdl. org. FLAG FOOTBALL: FLAG (For Lesbians and Gays) Football www.flagflagfootball.com, (617) 9375858 Ext. 4. FOOTBALL: Women’s professional team Northeastern Nitro. Members of the Women’s Football Alliance. Practices held in Bethel, CT. Contact Amy Manfred at amymanfred@yahoo.com or Carley Pesente at linebackergirl56@aol.com. RI/S.E. MA Flag Football: Sats. 10 a.m. All levels and genders. mbs1994ever@yahoo.com GOLF: Golf4All www.golf4all.net (617) 450-8682. HOCKEY: Boston Pride Hockey www.bostonpridehockey.org (617) 937-5858 Ext. 7. ICE HOCKEY for WOMEN: Gail Wickstrom email gwick@kersur.net. KICKBOXING or BOXING for WOMEN: Tues & Thurs evenings. Christina, 996-5425. www.rondeauskickboxing.com MARTIAL ARTS: Main Street Martial Arts. Nonprofit, welcoming dojo and community center. Scholarships available. 1282 No. Main St., Providence. 274-7672. www.mainstma.org. OUTDOORS: Chiltern Mountain Club, New England’s LGBT outdoor recreation club. www. chiltern.org. Email events@chiltern.org. ROWING: Boston Bay Blades www.bayblades.org/ boston (617) 937-5858 Ext. 11.
april
2013
RUGBY: Boston Ironsides Rugby Football Club. www.bostonironsidesrfc.org. RUNNING: Frontrunners Rhode Island: Brian 751-7643, bripm@cox.net. Frontrunners Boston www.frontrunnersboston.org (617) 937-5858 Ext. 3. SCUBA DIVING: Triangle Divers: www.triangledivers.org. SNOWBOARDING: OutRyders, www.outryders. org or email brian@outryders.org. SOCCER: Boston Strikers Soccer Club www.bostonstrikers.com (617) 937-5858 Ext. 9. SOFTBALL: Renaissance City Softball League. New players and boosters always welcome. 2267771-642 or rcsl_commish@cox.net. Visit www. providencesoftball.org Beantown Softball League: (617) 937-5858, Ext. 1, www.beantownsoftball.com. SQUASH: Boston Boasts www.bostonboasts.com SWIMMING: LANES (Liquid Assets New England Swim-Team); www.swim-lanes.org; (617) 9375858 Ext. 9. TENNIS: TENNIS-4-All: www.tennis4all.org. VOLLEYBALL: Cambridge Boston Volleyball Assoc. www.GayVolleyball.net, (617) 633-2180 WRESTLING: East Coast Wrestling Club www. eastcoastwrestlingclub.org, email ecwc@juno. com, (401) 467-6737 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 6
Students & Youth Bristol Community College Gay/Straight Alliance (BCC/GSA); Steven Camara, Advisor (508) 678-2811 Ext. 2391, BCC-H202, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA 02720. Brown University Queer Alliance: umbrella org. for groups. 863-3062. www.queer.brown.edu Brown University Grad Student - Med Student - Staff LGBTQ Association: queer-med-gradmembers@queer.brown.edu Brown University Staff LGBTQ Association: call LGBT Resource Center: 863-3062 Brown University LGBTQ Resource Center: 8633062, e-mail lgbtq@brown.edu Bryant Pride: Bryant College Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual Student Association. 232-6389. CCRI Triangle Alliance: Informal student GLBTQ group, 400 East Ave., Warwick. Call 825-1125 or www.ccri.cc.ri.edu/triangle. COLAGE. Support and social activities for children of LGBT Parents: Meets third Saturday of the month rhodeisland@colage.org. Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) Fitchburg State College GLBT Alliance: Social support group for students. One-in-Ten and Friends, 978-665-3164, sfranzemn@fsc.edu. Peer Listening Line/Fenway Community Health Ctr.: Boston. Youth-staffed hotline for GLBT youth; support, info and referrals. (617) 2672535 or (800)-399-PEER, 5-10 p.m. all week. RIC Rainbow Alliance: GLBT students at RI College, Fridays 12:30 -- 2 p.m, in Unity Center in lower Donovan. Office in StudentUnion 425. ricrainbowalliance2007@yahoo.com. Phone 456--8121 Roger Williams University LGBTQ & Allies group: S.A.F.E (Sexual Advocacy for Everyone): Week-
q
30
ly meetings in Intercultural Center; speakers, social and awareness events; Pride Week in April. Email: saferwu03@gmail.com. Facebook: S.A.F.E. Salve Regina University Gay Straight Lesbian Bisexual Alliance (GSLBA), 100 Ochre Point Ave., Newport. Sister Johnelle, Lucianij@salve.edu SeaQuel: Southeast Asian Queers United for Empowerment and Leadership. Bi-weekly Sunday meetings. 383-7450. myspace.com/seaQuel; Email SeaQuel@Prysm.us S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Sq., Prov., RI 02918, E-mail pclgbt@gmail.com. 865-1631 The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, aroundthe-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks. 866-4-U-TREVOR; 866-488-7386. thetrevorproject.org. The Next Thing (TNT): Political & support group for queer people of color at Brown Univ. Call Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062. University of RI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer & Questioning (LGBTIQ2) association dedicated to campus inclusiveness among staff, faculty, alumni and students. gsimonelli@advance.uri.edu. 874-5808. Youth Pride Inc./The Way Out: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 1323.Drop-in center at 743 Westminster St., Prov. 02903; Mon.---Thurs. noon--8 p.m, Fridays 4 -8 p.m., Sat. 10 -- 5. The Way Out peer support group Tues., 5 p.m. Gender Spectrum support group Tues. 5:30 p.m. Ask about the 14-andunder day. Call 421-5626 or email kerri@youthpride-ri.org Web: www.youthpride-ri.org.
Support Groups & Social Services Abuse Victims and Survivors: Support on phone for LGBTQ victims & survivors of partner abuse. Confidential peer-led groups. Hotline (617) 742-4911. Network/LaRed. Email office: advocate@tnir.org Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help for LGBT and straight adoptions. Betsy Alper, Jewish Family Service, 959 No. Main St., Providence. 331-54337. Foster parents needed: Stipend, assistance, training provided by Family Resources Community Action. 766-0900, ext. 1213. Foster parents needed, for newborn to age six. www. childrensfriendri.org. 276-4318 Foster parents sought: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing families. Gregary Wright, Family Service of RI, 331-1350 Ext. 3305 Behavioral health outpatient services in Fall River area, inclusive of LGBT: S.T.E.P. (508-)2351012; T.W.I.S.T. (508) 672-0378 Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center, offering resources for victims of domestic violence. 7233057. Catholic Parents Outreach: Always Our Children, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Sacred Heart Convent,
options
q
395 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA. Call Ann, (413) 736-6803. COLAGE (Children of Gays): A national movement of people with one or more LGBT parents. Social activities, education & advocacy. Meets 3rd Saturday of the month. rhodeisland@colage.org. Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group, meets in Boston First Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. www.compassftm.org, compassftm@comcast.net Crossroads RI: Hotline (Travelers Aid): (800) 3672700 Day One (Formerly Sexual Assault and Trauma Resource Center of RI): Counseling & legal aid for victims of sexual assault/abuse & incest. 24-hr hotline (800) 494-8100, collect calls accepted: 421-4100. Dementia and Early Alzheimer’s LGBTQ support group at Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Rd., Middletown RI 02842. 847-6181. Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County: Support, court advocacy, counseling, safe home, info for women and men in abusive or controlling, LGBT or straight relationships. 24 hour free and confidential helpline. 7823990. Female-to-Male Support Group: Transgender peer support, information, social group. For those who identify somewhere on the trans-masculine spectrum. Regular meetings. Visit www.SNE_ FTM@yahoo.com Gay Fathers of Greater Boston: support: E-Mail outreach@gayfathersboston.org. www.gayfathersboston.org. Gay Fathers Support Group in RI. Tom Fronczak, LICSW, 431-2953. Fee applies. GayLab for Healthy Relationships: Learning & practicing healthy ways to socialize in safe, nonjudgmental environment in LGBT community. www.gaylab.org. Email info@gaylab.org. James, 781-762-6629 Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project: support, info, shelter. (800) 832-1901, www.gmdvp.org. Gay Officers Action League /New England (GOAL NE), gay/lesbian/bisexual law enforcement officers, sworn & civilian. Fire, rescue and publicly employed EMS. P.O. Box 587, Boston, MA 02117; www.goalne.org; info@goalne.org; (617) 376-3612. Confidential. Gay Share. Coming Out? Gay men’s support group Wed., 7 p.m. No fee. Call Tom/Mike, 369-9448 or www.gayshare.org; Info@gayshare.org. Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline, call 24/7 for crisis and suicide prevention. Also social networks. 866-4-U-Trevor HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group at AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Ave., Prov., RI. 5213603. Refreshments served. New members should call Scott: 640-3108 Kathys’ Group: free support group for lesbians with cancer or any life-threatening illness. Meets monthly in Providence. Partners and caregivers welcome. Call 888-5KATHYS. Lesbian Moms of Southern NE: discussion, support and activity list for lesbian mothers. www. topica.com/lists/LMOSNE or ForADancer63@
april
2013
aol.com. Mantalk of S.E. Mass: Social/Discussions for gay/ bi/curious men 18+. Taunton every Thursday, and New Bedford 1st Wed. of the month, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Confidential. Drug/alcohol-free. Email mantalksouthcoast@yahoo.com Nat. Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues, info@nlgja.org. PFLAG: Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays: Greater Providence chapter serves all of RI and Southeastern Mass.: First Wednesdays, 6:45 p.m. at Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571; www.pflagprovidence.org; pflagprovidence@verizon.net; Cape Cod/Falmouth: Last Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Falmouth, 840 Sandwich Rd., E. Falmouth. joann@pflagcapecod. org. RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence: Info at 467-9940; 24-hour helpline, (800) 494-8100. RI Rainbow Support Group for people with disabilities who identify as LGBTQ. Meets last Tuesday of each month. 98 Rolfe St., Cranston, 6 - 7:30. Ken Renaud, 785-2100. RI Relay 711. Samaritans: 24-hour hotline for suicidal, lonely, despairing, depressed. (800) 365-4044 (RI only), 272-4044; www.samaritansri.org. Sexual Health Education & Advocacy Program: HIV, sexual wellness, domestic violence risk reduction. Free, confidential, LGBTQ-friendly and bilingual (Spanish). Contact Aida (amanduley@sojournerri.org) or call 861-6191, ext. 121. No caller ID is used; calls are blocked for safety. Sojourner House: Support, shelter, advocacy, info for people in abusive relationships. Call us at 861-6191 We DON’T use Caller ID; calls are blocked for safety. Straight Spouse Support: Straight spouse professional offers peer support and referrals. Jane Harris, (413) 625-6636. Email jcmalinski48@ gmail.com. Straight Spouses Group: Visit www.StraightSpouse. org. for info on groups and online support. TGI Network of R.I.: Support, advocacy for Transgender, Transsexual, Gender-variant, Genderqueer & Intersex people. www.tginetwork.org. info@tginetwork.org. Transgender Support Group: Cape Cod (508) 3624435 Trans Partners New England: Provides loved ones of transgender people with a confidential, safe space to explore the impact of a loved one’s gender identity on their relationships, and to connect with other loved ones of transgender people. Meetings in Providence, last Wed. of each month, location unpublished for privacy. Email partners@tginetwork.org. TransYouth Family Allies: Support for gender-variant and transgender children ages 3-18. Info@ imatyfa.org. www.imatyfa.org. Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA): Growing organization to address the concerns of fair treatment of transgender veterans and active duty service members. www. tavausa.org. Women’s Resource Center of Newport and Bristol Counties, offering services to victims of domestic violence. 846-5263
q
31
TransFamily New England A safe place to meet and share
TransFamily New England
Free & confidential group meeting for parents (and other family members) of someone identifying as transgender, gender variant, or intersex. We offer a safe space to explore the impact of a loved one’s TGI identity and an opportunity to connect with others in similar situations. Free & confidential group meeting for parents Second (and other family members) When: Tuesday of each month of someone identifying as transgender, Where: Convenient Providence location - contact gender Molly variant, or intersex. We offer a safe (email below) for details. space to explore the impact of a loved Time: 6:30-8:30 one’s TGI identitypm and an opportunity to connect with others in similar situations. Other: For more information, please email Molly
A safe place to meet and share
at: When: Second Tuesday of each month
jewcy15@gmail.com Where: Convenient Providence location - contact Molly (email below) for details.
We look forward to New England TransFamily meeting you! A safe place to New meet and share TransFamily England Time: 6:30-8:30 pm
Other: For more information, please email Molly at:
A safe place to meet and share jewcy15@gmail.com
We look forward to Free & confidential groupyou! meeting for meeting
parents (and other family members) of someone identifying as transgender, Free & confidential group meeting for gender variant, or intersex. We offer a safe parents (and other family members) of space to explore the impact of a loved optionsas transgender, q april 2013 someone identifying one’s TGI identity and an opportunity to
q
32