Options Newsmagazine-February 2013 by Options Magazine

q y Happy Birthda to us!

options

30 years

Rhode

Island’s

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender

Community Newsmagazine

www.optionsri.org

February 2013

Is This Our Year?

y the time this issue is released, we will have had a vote in the Rhode Island House Judiciary Committee on Bill 5015, to make all the rights and responsibilities of civil marriage available to same-sex cou-

ples. Opinions vary widely as to the likelihood of the bill becoming law this year, but we’re not going to get it if we don’t fight for it! There is much more information on this potentially historic legislative year in this issue. Be sure and stay informed as the process moves ahead.

In this issue: 2

Scene Around Providence

Calendar

News Briefs

Passages

“Our Biggest Obstacle is the State”

11 Trans Artist: 20 years of Self-Portraits 12 This Month in History 13 Invisible Premieres in Providence 15 Lesbians on the Loose 16 Youth Pride, Inc. 17 ICRI 18 MERI 19 AIDS Community Watch 22 RI Pride 23 SAGE/RI 24 LGBTQ Center 25 Defining Transgender

q Serving the RI LGBT Communityq Since 1982 february q Visit our Resources on p. 27 options 1 2013 Sectionq

Subscriptions p. 4 q

Scene Around Providence Photography courtesy of Jack Hartwein-Sanchez The Providence Gay Men’s Chorus Holiday Concert, “Happy Holigays,” Beneficent Church, Providence.

World AIDS Day, December 1, The Biltmore Hotel, Providence

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News Briefs Several Hundred Thousand People Mass at Eiffel Tower to Protest French President’s Plan to Legalize Gay Marriage and Adoption Three columns of protesters, waving pink and blue flags showing a father, mother and two children, converged on the landmark in Paris. President François Hollande has pledged to push through

the law with his Socialists’ parliamentary majority, but the opponents’ campaign has put a dent in public support and forced the delay of a plan to allow lesbian couples access to artificial insemination. “Nobody expected this two or three months ago,” said Frigide Barjot, a flamboyant co-

Episcopal Bishop to RI Gen. Assembly: Pass Civil Marriage Legislation. Recently installed Rhode Island Episcopal Bishop W. Nicholas Knisely on January 11 said he supports an effort to legalize gay marriage in the state. “The Episcopal Church has been blessed for many years by the life and ministry of gay and lesbian couples, both lay and ordained,” Knisely said in a letter to clergy. “I have seen how they contribute to the common good of a congregation and a community by creating stable, loving homes. As a new citizen of Rhode Island, I am eager to see our state legislature join many others across the country in passing legislature to ensure civil marriage equality.”

Providence Named #12 Gayest City in America In a January 9 article, The Advocate named the 15 gayest cities in the U.S., including Providence at number 12. What follows is their description. Providence, R.I. (pop. 178,053) Three schools (Brown, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson & Wales) bring in the LGBT and LGBT-friendly students who help make this small city so gay and so unstuffy in a nonNew England-y kind of way. The gay haunts are easily navigable but no less cool for the city’s size. Guys and gals alike will go nuts for Providence Roller Derby (ProvidenceRollerDerby.com) Also, the city’s former mayor, out 51-year-old David Cicilline, was elected to his second term in Congress.

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median leading the “demo for all.” Strongly backed by the Catholic Church hierarchy, Barjot and groups working with her mobilized church-going families, political conservatives, Muslims, evangelicals and even gay people opposed to same-sex marriage.

Catholic Bishop Allies with Hate Group By joining the Faith Alliance to Preserve the Sanctity of Marriage as Established by God, Bishop Thomas Tobin and the Providence Diocese have joined forces with MassResistance, an organization the Southern Poverty Law Center has called a hate group, according to RIFuture.org. MassResistance has claimed that pro-equality groups supporting antibullying programs in schools “want to lure children into homosexuality and, very possibly, sadomasochism,” according to the SPLC. Its founder and executive director Brian Camenker said that “gays [in Massachusetts] were trying to get legislation passed to allow sex with animals,” according to the SPLC. The Roman Catholic position on marriage equlaity is well known, but Bishop Tobin has made it clear on numerous occasions that he and the Diocese support respect and pastoral care for individuals with same-sex attraction.

Washington National Cathedral To Perform Same-Sex Weddings

We’re Here, We’re Republican The Log Cabin Republicans’ interim leader says his organization is ready to roll up their shirt-sleeves and get the job done, building a stronger, more engaged, and more relevant organization than ever before as more and more Republicans understand that embracing civil marriage for gay couples is a winning issue. “This new, bolder Log Cabin Republicans is going to be as much of a watchdog on GOP positions on gay issues as much we are attackdogs against the destructive policies of taxand-spend Democrats,” says LCR’s new Interim Executive Director Gregory T. Angelo in a recent Op-Ed in The Advocate.

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The Washington National Cathedral had been ready to embrace same-sex marriage for some time, though the key development came last July when the Episcopal Church approved a ceremony for same-sex unions at its General Convention in Indianapolis, followed by the legalization of gay marriage in Maryland, and the District of Columbia. Longtime marriage equality advocate, the Very Rev. Gary Hall, took over as the Cathedral’s dean in October. Conversations began even before he arrived to clear the way for the ceremonies at the church that so often serves as a symbolic house of prayer for national celebrations and tragedies.

From the Editor’s Desk

options

Rhode Island’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Newsmagazine Since 1982

I have a pretty bleak outlook on this month in general. What is February? Cold, dark, maybe muddy or slushy... bleah. It does have Valentine’s Day, which is nice enough to fall right in the middle, and then it’s only a month until the first day of spring. Still, that’s not enough to compete with December and January (January contains the birthdays of many of my favorite people, and, well, me).

The other thing I suggest is that you read this issue all the way through. That way, you will be all caught up on what is happening in queer Rhode Island, and have interesting things to say at those events once you get there. You never know, somebody could think, “Wow, s/ he’s so informed,” and sidle on up, only to become your life partner or your best buddy.

If your attitude towards February matches mine, I’d like to suggest we all work together. Let’s get out to the many events found in our calendar this month -- just pick a couple to mark on your own calendar, and start thinking about what you are going to wear.

There are so many good reasons to read and support Options!

FEBRUARY 2013 q Vol. XXXI1, No. 1 Managing Director Kim Stowell editor@optionsri.org Writers Thomas Bertrand, Kalene Brennan, Jessica Cinquegrana, Devin Driscoll, Sally Ann Hay, Gwendolyn Howard, Elana Rosenberg, Jennifer Stevens Copy Editors Jessica Cinquegrana, Nate 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

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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 March issue must be delivered by February 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.

Passages Ray Fay, Emperor XIV: You will be missed On Christmas Day 2012, our community lost its most hospitable asset and noble friend – Ray Fay. Ray was a lifelong resident of Rhode Island. He graduated from Cornell University’s Hotel Management School in 1956, and for the next 25 years served as manager of some of the most famous hotels of that era. They included such hostelries as: The Fontainebleau, Miami Beach; The Castaways, North Miami; The Biltmore, Providence; and The Viking Hotel, Newport. In 1987 Ray “retired” from hotel management. In 1988 he opened his own nightclub, 12th Caesar, which was swiftly joined by two other clubs: Tramps and Planet Mars. Simultaneously, he owned and operated other small businesses. Finally, in 2003 he became joint owner of Action Auto Parts, a business in which he was still actively involved until his death. Along with his numerous business endeavors, Ray was very active in the local community. For over 30 years, he had been a Board member of the Association of Retired Persons of Rhode Island, serving as their Board President for over 25 years. He had also been involved with Rhode Island’s political scene for over 25 years. In 1989 the Imperial Court System first came to New England. It began as the Imperial Court of New England. In 1992 the original Court was dismantled, and the Imperial Court of Rhode Island at Providence was born. Ray’s philanthropic endowment paid for both Coronation 1 and 2 for ICRI. Since helping to launch ICRI, Ray was awarded numerous titles as thanks for his work within the Court and community. He was named The Golden Prince and Godfa-

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ther for Life, and in 2006 he ascended as Emperor XIV. In 2011 he was named Imperial Brother to Empress Nicole the Great, Queen Mother of the Americas. The next year, he was given one of the highest honors he could be bestowed in the court system – he was named heir apparent to Empress Nicole the Great. Those of us who had the joy of meeting and knowing Ray will miss him greatly and know that the world of hospitality will never be the same without him. Austen Bourassa and Belle Pellegrino

Jeanne Manford, Founder of PFLAG, Dies Jeanne Manford, a proud mother whose love for her gay son prompted her to found an international organization for parents and relatives of gay men and lesbians, died on January 8 at the age of 92. Manford became active on behalf of LGBT rights in 1972 after her son Morty was beaten during a Gay Activists Alliance demonstration. After Morty’s attack, Manford wrote a letter to the editor of the New York

Post, declaring, “I have a homosexual son, and I love him.” She subsequently joined her son in the 1972 Christopher Street Liberation Day Parade (predecessor to NYC’s LGBT Pride Parade), carrying a placard stating “Parents of Gays: Unite in Support of Our Children.” Gay and lesbian spectators cheered and ran up to embrace her with tears. The first meeting of PFLAG (which was then known as “Parents of Gays” or “POG”) was held in New York’s Metropolitan Community Church the following year. Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays expanded nationwide in 1980 and now has 350 chapters around the world. “All of us -- people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and straight allies alike -- owe Jeanne our gratitude,” PFLAG national officials said in an email statement. “She paved the way for us to speak out for what is right, uniting the unique parent, family and ally voice with the voice of LGBT people everywhere.” Myra Shays, founder and president of the Greater Providence chapter (serving all Rhode Island) says, “When I was active in the NYC chapter, Mrs. Manford was thought of as the grandmother of all our gay children. A petite elementary school teacher, she had the vision and courage to turn her love for her son into a powerful support and civil rights organization. Our chapter honors her memory.” q

Please send letters, wedding, birth and adoption announcements, obituaries etc. to: editor@optionsri.org or P.O. Box 6406, Providence 02940 february

2013

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 edition. 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.

February 1

Benefit for Marriage Equality RI, 9 p.m. Dar Williams performs, with opening act by Becky Chace. Doors open at 8 p.m. Luna’s Providence, Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. For advance tickets go to www. darwilliamsmeri.eventbrite.com. Drag Brunch, 12:30 p.m. Aspire Restaurant at the Hotel Providence, 311 Westminster St., Providence. One seating only. Call 521-3333 for reservations. Complimentary valet parking. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus new members enrollment, 7-9:30 p.m. Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset St., Providence. E-mail Rsirico@provgmc.org or just show up!

TransPartners of New England, 6:308:30 p.m. The meeting location is withheld for participant privacy. Please e-mail partners@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.

“Invisible” premiere -- one time showing. 7 p.m., Providence Place Mall Cinema. See www.projectweber.org for more information.

The Vagina Monologues, 7:00 p.m. Johnson and Wales University, Pepsi Forum, 8 Abbott Park Place, Providence. Minimum ticket donation: $3 prior to performance; $5 day of performance. For

Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. A peer-led support group open to transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, and intersex people and

more information, contact The Gender Equity Center at J&W. 598-1138 or GenderEquity@jwu.edu. Proceeds benefit Sojourner House and V-Day. 8

The Vagina Monologues, 8 p.m. Stadium Theatre, 28 Monument Square, Woonsocket. For tickets and more information see www.stadiumtheatre. com/Event/180 or call 762-4545. Proceeds benefit Sojourner House and V-Day.

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.

Poppy Champlin, 7 p.m. Indigo Pizza & Lounge, 599 Tiogue Ave., Coventry. $20 includes Italian style buffet: chicken, pasta, salad, mashed potatoes, bread, and dessert pizzas after the show. Tickets sold in advance only. Call 615-9600.

RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7p.m. Social and networking for gay and bisexual men 40+.

For the past 29 years We’ve been handing our Clients The same old Line …

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Social, dinner and meeting. Visit www. riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010 for more information.

Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. See Feb. 5 listing.

Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. This month’s selection: A Queer and Pleasant Danger: A Memoir by Kate Bornstein. For more information e-mail queerbookclub@ gmail.com.

Red Carpet Oscar 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.

YPI Community Education Night: LGBTQQ 101 workshop. 6 p.m. We will talk about what it means to be LGBTQQ, the differences between sexual orientation and gender identity, and the process of coming out. You will learn about local and national resources and steps you can take to support the LGBTQQ youth in your lives. This event is free and open to people of ALL AGES! Space is limited, so please RSVP by emailing jaye@youthprideri.org

“If I Can’t Dance, I Don’t Want To Be Part Of Your Revolution Dance Party”, 9 p.m. Luna’s Providence, Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. A benefit for Sojourner House’s Violence Prevention Program. Suggested donation: $10, and includes two free raffle tickets. ACOS’ Mardi Gras Bon Fete, 6:30 p.m.-midnight, Providence Biltmore Hotel Grand Ballroom, 11 Dorrance St., Providence. Tickets: $80. See www. aidscareos.org to purchase tickets and for more information.

Marriage Equality RI monthly community meeting, 7-9 p.m. 118 North Main St., Suite 3, Providence. For more information call 947-2727.

Options Distribution Party, 3-6 p.m. Deville’s Café, 345 South Water Street, Providence. Come hang out on the last Sunday of the month, in a way-friendly atmosphere, and help get the next issue of Options out to the people. info@optionsri. org.

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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!

Luna’s Ladies Night, 9 p.m. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music, DJ, special events.

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depends on your support

Visit www.aidscareos.org for monthly themes!

March 1

p o q

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 vjutras@ gmail.com.

o i t

Remember!

15-18 RI Men’s Gathering at the W. Alton Jones campus of URI, West Greenwich. For more information see rhodeislandmensgathering.org or contact Arthur Snow, before 9 p.m., at 529-1269.

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21+ $6 cover. Every Friday. See www. lunaspvd.com. 2

Dinner & Drag with Kitty Litter, 6:30 p.m. Stadium Theatre, 28 Monument Square, Woonsocket. For tickets see www. stadiumtheatre.com/Event/127 or call 762-4545.

Meet and Greet the Candidates for Emperor & Empress XXI of the Imperial Court of RI at Providence. Details to be announced. See www.icriprov.org.

RI Pride Goddess Show, 1-6 p.m. The Fete Lounge, 103 Dike St., Providence. Acts will include Sarah Rich & Invincible We, Jess Powers, and host Cat Ganim. Catie Curtis will be the headliner. Tickets are $20 in advance, and $25 at the door, and are available through www.fetemusic.com.

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.

TransPartners of New England, 6:308:30 p.m. The meeting location is withheld for participant privacy. Please e-mail partners@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.

RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7p.m. Social and networking for gay and bisexual men 40+. Social, dinner and meeting. Visit www. riprimetimers.org or call Steve 996-3010 for more info.

Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. See Mar. 5 listing

Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. For more information and this month’s book selection e-mail queerbookclub@gmail. com.

March Madness 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.

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25 Marriage Equality RI monthly community meeting, 7-9 p.m. 118 North Main St., Suite 3, Providence. For more information call 947-2727.

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february

LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

The Marriage Equality Battle With much passion on both sides, last month saw the sharpening of the debate on same-sex marriage. This is the year, say many of the pundits. We spoke to a N. Kingstown family about the bumpy path to marriage and parenthood. What a difference marriage would make!

Our Biggest Obstacle Has Been the State

atti and Martha Holt Castle have been together for ten years, and five years ago they married in Massachusetts. They are both professionals and they have a 2½ year-old son named Tobin. The family moved from the Oak Hill section of Pawtucket to a suburban neighborhood in North Kingstown last summer. They were kind enough to invite Options into their home recently for a Q & A. We began by asking about family. Martha: Our parents have been very supportive. Patti’s family has a lot of born-again Christians, but they have been great. Tobin, how many mommies do you have? Tobin: I have two mommies -- a lot of mommies! Options: Martha, you carried Tobin. How did you decide on this? Patti: Martha’s older, so we decided she should go first. We used a sperm bank in California, one of the only ones we could find that was non-profit. O: Let’s talk about that experience. How does it work? M: There really is no set way to go about it – you kind of make it up as you go along. We wanted our child to resemble both of us. We chose a donor who had blue eyes like

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we do, and a genetic background similar to Patti’s. And it worked, because whoever is holding him is always assumed to be his mom. We stockpiled the sperm for Tobin’s siblings so they will all be genetically related regardless of who carried them. O: So, once you have the sperm, what happens? P: We found a midwife who really supported what we were doing. But it was very expensive. Artificial insemination is done at fertility clinics, who charge every time an attempt is made, and most of it must be paid out-of-pocket. Just the sperm itself is around $500 a bottle, and they charge $1500 a pop. Fortunately, Martha got pregnant on the first try. M: So, yeah, I’m pretty fertile. We loved that our midwife described us as “socially infertile.” O: And then what did you have to do so that the state would consider both of you Tobin’s parents? P: The Rhode Island Department of Health will recognize both parents, but GLAD recommends doing a second-parent adoption for when you go out of state. O: What’s involved with that?

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M: It’s very invasive. Your name gets published in the paper, and we had to hire a lawyer. Basically, I had to terminate my parental rights so Patti could adopt Tobin. And there was a home visit, which is scary. In fact, if we had been living in our old house, we might have been in trouble; Tobin didn’t have a bedroom – he was just a baby, and his crib was in the hallway outside our bedroom door. But the state says the adoptive child must have a bedroom. O: Wow, you have to really want that baby. M: We are better off than our [male] friends

who want to become parents. Their path is much more complicated, since they cannot give birth. Their options are limited to adoption or surrogacy, which is also extremely expensive. So once again, we are lucky by comparison. O: Now that you are past all that, what is your life like? Do you hang out with other LGBT families? P: We are really the first among our friends to have kids, and Tobin is still little. But there are other gay families at his child care, as well as single parent families, so he sees all different kinds of families. O: And how about the marriage equality movement here in Rhode Island. What’s your feeling on a referendum, for example? M: Totally against a referendum. They are incredibly expensive, first of all. And people in referendum states have suffered the negative psychological impact of hearing all the anti-gay ads in the local media. I hope that never happens here, and I believe that senior-level state officials will do everything in their power to keep it from happening. O: If marriage passes, will you renew your vows? M: I don’t think so. We’re already married. We just want to be normal moms. I want to be a super PTA mom! There are so many other things to focus on. O: Like having another child?

Welcoming LGBT professionals and their friends

M: We’re trying… it is taking a little longer this time. O: How many children would you like to have? M & P (smiling at each other): At least two, no more than four. But when you do repeated attempts at conceiving, you increase the chance of having twins. However many come along, we will love them. O: Overall, what has been the biggest struggle?

A membership organization focused on: • Shared Member Contact Information • Professional Networking • Philanthropic Causes • Member benefits n e t w o r k

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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

M: We’ve been so lucky. Our challenges are the same as all families. The only one that has been unique to us as gay parents is the state. But that’s going to change, and soon. q

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Transformation:

Artist explores gender transition on canvas This month, Peregrine Gallery offers a solo exhibition of prints, drawings and paintings by the Pawtucket-based artist Mac MacDougall. In this body of work, MacDougall’s journey of gender transformation is poignantly explored through self-portraits that showcase the artist’s emotional journey as much as his physical one. The portraits move in and out of focus, a collapsed and tangled bundle of red lines, a body simply defined by a few brush strokes, and in the final and most recent portrait, an expectant-looking face finally looking directly at the viewer. This artistic journal invites the viewer to see gender transition as a process we can all relate to – the innate desire to been seen and responded to as who we truly believe ourselves to be. “These self-portraits set me free,” says MacDougall. “They allowed me to abandon the notion that I was someone who I truly was not, and they held my hand while I let go of all that others in the world said I was. ‘Transformation’ is about the process of shedding an identity that was placed upon me, to become who I am. I think everyone can relate to this. “For the past 20 years, I have been on a journey that took me from being seen and spoken of as one gender to being seen and spoken of as another gender. Today very few speak of me in the old gender. And no one mistakes me for a woman. Not that there’s anything wrong with being a woman! I think women are extraordinary human beings. However, I always knew I wasn’t a woman.

Above: Coming Up and Out of Bastogne; Left: the artist at his gallery opening. Below: Gallery opening

“I think we can all relate to being held in judgment by others, and held hostage by an image that we are not and never were. I think this is a common link between those who were born into the body of a gender with which they identify, and those who were not. “When you are the latter, it is almost impossible to live your life. You feel alienated, and the little pockets of time when you are validated for who you are often quickly taken away or abruptly made fun of. The damage to one’s self worth can be insurmountable. “There are great benefits to us as a whole society if we can learn about our similarities and our differences. It is no mistake that I exist, and I am grateful I can open up as a man and let you see me.” q

“Transformation: 20 years in the making of the man named Mac” runs until March 1 at Peregrine Gallery, 150 Waterman St. #G, Providence. options

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This Month in Options History Jessica Cinquegrana

February 1983:

RIFT (Rhode Island Feminist Theatre), celebrated its 10th birthday, presenting “Twenty Eighty-Two Revue,” at the Roger Williams Park Natural History Museum Auditorium.

February 1988:

Rhode Island Project/AIDS: “With the continued increase in the number of people with AIDS and ARC in the state, the need for volunteers is crucial.”

February 1991: The Lesbian & Gay Pride Committee held its 2nd Annual Valentine’s Soirée on February 22 at the Roger Williams Park Casino. Music by Master Mix, dancing, and refreshments were enjoyed by all!

February 1992:

The annual training for The Speakers Bureau was held for anyone interested in becoming actively involved. The Speakers Bureau, sponsored by the RI Alliance for Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights, provided people to publicly address groups and organizations throughout the state on a variety of topics dealing with sexual orientation.

February 1993: Gay community health educator Derek Livingston and AIDS educator Marc Paige co-facilitated “Hearing Our Brothers’ Voices: A Dialogue for HIV-positive and HIV-negative gay men.” Antibody status, dating, sexual intimacy, and friendship were some topics discussed in the dialogue. February 1995: OPTIONS Goes to Brown!

A complete collection of OPTIONS, given to the Katzoff Collection, will be the only complete series in existence and will be the major source for researchers studying issues of particular interest to the RI gay/lesbian community. A record for OPTIONS will be entered into national bibliographic databases as part of the National Newspaper Project.

February 1996: The Prince Charitable Trusts of Chicago, Illinois have awarded a $15,000 grant to Rhode Island Project/AIDS to support the Buddy Program. Through the Buddy Program, individuals living with HIV/AIDS are linked with trained volunteer buddies who provide one-on-one emotional support, living assistance, crisis intervention and advocacy. February 1996: The Imperial Court of Rhode Island passed the half-way mark of Reign III and announced it had 18 new members and had raised over $10,000 during the Reign. This brought the total raised to $37,000 since its founding members began raising money for local AIDS and gay organizations in the state.

PHOTOS: From Top: Rhode Island Alliance for Civil Rights, date unknown; Some fabulous people with Mayor Vincent Cianci, date unknown; Imperial Court 1997; Fundraiser at Deville’s, 1997; Imperial Court 1995. options

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Invisible: New film sheds light on the lives of

male sex workers in Providence Kim Stowell

itting across the table from this handsome young man, it was hard to believe where he had been. He has a smile that could launch a ship, and a quiet pride that mixes with a deep sadness. Rich Holcomb has come a long way. From an early age, he told me, Holcomb sought attention from people who hung around his neighborhood, trying to fill the void left by his angry, often absent father. The guys he tended toward were usually bad guys, and he became chameleon-like – doing whatever he thought would make people accept him. It was a sad and desperate way to live. Holcomb also knew at an early age that he was gay, but he was pretty sure that these guys whose attention he sought would not approve. “Back then, I thought I would rather die than come out of the closet,” he says. Instead, he acted out as a bully and a homophobe, trying to hide his true self from the others as well as from himself. Not surprisingly, he got into substance abuse at a relatively young age, too, and dropped out of high school. It was a downward spiral that left him with very little self-esteem. “I kept creating lines in the sand for myself and then crossing them,” he said, going from alcohol to marijuana and all the way to crack. His world was becoming darker and more dangerous.

He wandered around somewhat aimlessly, working in a hardware store in Boston for a while, and wound up in Montreal. He had cleaned up his act a little, gotten his GED, and discovered an interest in filmmaking. When he encountered the “squeegee kids” of Montreal, the homeless, drugaddicted youth who panhandled by washing the windows of passing cars, he thought it would make an interesting documentary subject. So he began to reach out to them and get to know their community. This was the start of another, very dangerous downturn. Hanging around on the street with people who had access to drugs, Holcomb started using again. This time, however, he had no way to pay for them, so he turned, as many

It was a vicious cycle; he would score drugs, engage in sex for pay while high and use the money to buy more drugs.

Holcomb’s mother, who had tried to be there for him all his life, had finally had enough and threw him out of the house.

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of the other kids did, to prostitution as a way to support his mounting drug habit. It was quick money and easy to get, and the drugs softened the effect of what he was doing. “Wasn’t it scary?” I asked him. He shook his head slowly, telling me that he was so accustomed to darkness, despair and danger by then – “Normal life was intimidating,” he said. A year or so in, word reached Holcomb that his grandmother was dying, and the news shocked him into entering rehab. He didn’t make it to her funeral, unfortunately, but he did return to Providence, armed with a few rudimentary skills learned in rehab. “I knew I would always be an addict, but that I could choose whether or not to use.” His mother was so happy to see him, cleaned up as he was, and welcomed him home, but he fell in with the same group of people he had known before, and relapsed into drug use, eventually returning to sex

work to pay for his habit. “My circle of friends and family was twisted and abusive,” he told me. It was a vicious cycle; he would score drugs, engage in sex for pay while high and use the money to buy more drugs. “The sex was not pleasurable at all,” he said, “I found no enjoyment in it,” and yet he felt alone and unable to break the cycle. His first effort to break out was to attend A.A. meetings. He found a meeting for gay men, but there was no one like him at the meetings. “Some of the older guys had bad experiences with male prostitutes,” he said, “and they treated me in a degrading, demeaning way.” The cycle continued, with Holcomb drifting in and out of treatment, but always ending up back on the streets of Providence, selling himself to men for drug money. Finally, at a N.A. meeting, he noticed a man across the room that he recognized. “This guy, Jimmy, was telling his story of being on the streets as a sex worker. He had cleaned up, and it planted a seed in my mind. I thought, ‘If he can do it, I can do it.’ More than anything, I finally had someone to talk to who knew what I was talking about.”

GREGORY’S OPTICAL

It was almost six years ago that Rich met Jimmy Waterman. He worked hard at getting his act together, has been clean and sober for five years and has a full-time job. He never forgot where he came from, though, and he and Jimmy began doing outreach work in their off hours, passing out condoms and clean needles to sex workers. He took every chance to talk with the guys he met, letting them know that they were not alone and that they could get out of the business. He also did some work with a coalition of community members who work together to help prevent the spread of HIV in

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Rich Holcomb, left, and Jimmy Waterman on a recent trip to Montreal to promote Invisible. Rhode Island. “This group had identified populations who were at risk for HIV, but male sex workers were not even on their radar screens.” He soon discovered a potential reason for the omission: Continued on page 26

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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!

After a brief holiday hiatus, we are back at Options and ready to tackle 2013 -- thanks to Ryan for filling in for us last month!

December found us at the Comedy Connection twice. We stopped in early in the month for the Kitty Litter & Friends Drag Extravaganza Holiday Show. The show featured Sabrina Blaze, LaDiva Jonz and Miss Kitty performing a medley of holiday songs, all to benefit Aids Care Ocean State. Nothing gets you in the holiday spirit more than hearing holiday songs performed by Rhode Island’s favorite drag queens!

Right before the holidays, we went with our two best friends on a cruise with Sweet Travel, a lesbian-cruise purveyor that books cabins on mainstream cruise ships (as opposed to booking the entire ship). The company also prides itself on lending a hand with social and environmental projects at the ports of call during a cruise. Past projects included a beach clean-up and sprucing up an animal shelter.

By mid-December, we were ready for a break from shopping and the hustlebustle of the holiday season. John Kelley’s Thirsty Thursday and Friends Jingle-Tini Spectacular at the Comedy Connection was a perfect night out. This event showcased some of John’s favorite comics, such as Mike “The Deaf Comic” Murray, Jennifer Munroe-Nathans, Cory Guglietti, Christina Thomas and Mark Shea. It also introduced Jim “The Bow Tie Guy” Limperis. What a fantastic show -something for everyone.

We had a phenomenal time on the ship. We met so many wonderful and fascinating women from all over the country, and even a girl from England. The “Sweeties,” as we were called, were quite diverse -- in age, ethnicity and backgrounds -- and yet everyone became fast friends. We met a group of gay men who had booked through Sweet Travel as well. Sailing with our group was the very talented and hilarious comedian, Jennie McNulty. Anyone who has been to P-town in the past 10 years will recognize her name. Jennie mingled with all of us on the ship, and performed a private show just for the “Sweeties.” We can’t say enough about the camaraderie we had with the our fellow passengers – it was a real sense of community we felt as human beings.

Then Gay Bingo returned on January 17 for the New Year -- the hostess with the mostest, Kitty Litter, along with Miss Haley Star, always make the third Thursday of the month a night to remember. Lots of laughs and raising money for AIDS Care Ocean State -- it is a perfect combination for a good time! Check Options’ calendar page for each month’s theme for Gay Bingo and make sure to come out and play. Until next time -- we’ll be on the loose! xo, A & M q

Also: Star Over the Luna Pet sitting www.starovertheluna.com

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MICHELE D. PALIOTTA, LICSW

Youth Pride Inc. Elana Rosenberg

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“GSA” is a commonly used acronym for student organizations called Gay-Straight Alliances. These groups are found at colleges and universities, in high schools, and even at some middle schools. Youth Pride, Inc. provides technical support to GSAs throughout the state of Rhode Island and even into Massachusetts. YPI maintains the Rhode Island GSA Network and houses the Rhode Island GSA Coalition. Because of The Federal Equal Access Act, any school that receives government funding and has at least one other non-curricular club must also allow a GSA if there are students who are interested in starting a club. GSAs provide a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ youth and their allies, and increase community awareness of LGBTQ bullying and discrimination, while providing leadership opportunities for members. The clubs often organize days of action like The National Day of Silence or No Name Calling Week, and days of support such as World AIDS Day or the Transgender Day of Remembrance. National Gay-Straight Alliance Day is coming up on February 6 and gives GSAs and their supporters an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the work they do. For more information on National GSA Day, check out www.gsaday.org. In addition to providing support to the clubs, the GSA Network helps members share best practices, trouble-shoots challenges facing individual groups, helps line up guest speakers and more. The Rhode Island GSA Coalition is also available for youth who don’t have a GSA at their own school, and helps those who are interested in taking their GSA to the next level or are looking to take their activism beyond their own GSA. The Coalition meets monthly, giving the members the chance to meet GSA members from other schools, get ideas for activities and learn about the GSA Movement in RI and across the nation. Meetings are open to all youth currently enrolled in high school or college, regardless of their membership in a GSA. Finally, YPI organizes the annual Rhode Island GSA Coalition Leadership Conference. This year’s conference will be held on March 16 at Classical High School. The conference is a daylong event, packed with workshops, caucuses, and networking opportunities for all who attend. The conference is free and open to all youth between the ages of 13 and 23, as well as supportive educators. If you are connected to a GSA and are interested in being a part of the RI GSA Network, if you are looking for more information on the GSA Coalition Leadership Conference, or have any other GSArelated questions, please contact elana@youthprideri.org. q

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The Imperial Court of Rhode Island Scholarship Applicants Sought The Imperial Court of Rhode Island (ICRI) is currently inviting individuals to apply for their Imperial Court of Rhode Island Memorial Scholarship Fund. Each individual must be a graduate (or about to graduate) from high school (or equivalent) this spring, and interested in pursuing further studies at an accredited school (college, community college, trade, technical, etc.). This individual must also identify as a member of the LGBTQ community and/or have a parent or guardian who identifies as a member of the LGBTQ community. The scholarship fund was created by Emperor XVIII Big Daddy Austen Daniels

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and Empress XVIII Jacqueline DiMera as an opportunity to give back to the Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusettsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; LGBTQ community, and promote higher education. Applications may be obtained by emailing Austen at: austen. bourassa@yahoo.com. All application submissions must be postmarked by February 28, 2013. ICRI, currently in its 20th year of existence, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is a chapter of the International Court System, founded in 1965. With over 65 chapters spanning the countries of the United States, Canada and Mexico, the International Court Systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to perform noble deeds and services to each of the communities in its chapter cities. Each chapter is an autonomous organization bound together in shared structure, policies and goals. q

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imagine... YOUR AD HERE.

advertising@optionsri.org

Marriage Equality RI On the heels of exciting victories for equality in Rhode Island this fall, as well as in Maine, Maryland, Minnesota and Washington State, and after nearly two decades of advocacy, marriage equality may soon come to the Ocean State. In recognition of this unprecedented momentum, a broad coalition of local and national organizations held a press conference on January 14 to announce the launch of Rhode Islanders United for Marriage, a campaign to win full civil marriage rights for all Ocean State families.

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Consisting of numerous national and regional marriage equality organizations, as well as Ocean State Action, the Rhode Island AFL-CIO, Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, the RI affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union, Rhode Island Progressive Democrats and many others, Rhode Islanders United for Marriage will employ grassroots organizing techniques focused on giving voice to supporters. People from all 39 cities and towns will be invited to join with their community to speak with lawmakers about why marriage matters to all families in the state. “Rhode Islanders United for Marriage is a broad and growing coalition, coming together to stand up for all families, and ensure that the Ocean State joins the rest of New England in providing the unique protection and recognition that only marriage can afford,” said Ray Sullivan, Rhode Islanders United for Marriage campaign director. The press conference was attended by a number of local and statewide elected leaders, including Governor Lincoln Chafee, Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts and General Treasurer Gina Raimondo. Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis and Providence Mayor Angel Taveras had scheduling conflicts, but sent their support as well. Anthony De Luca, a North Kingstown resi-

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dent and former public school teacher spoke at the event of the sadness he felt at having his daughter’s wedding performed away from their home: “Rhode Islanders shouldn’t have to leave their home in order to experience that joy. All fathers should be able to walk their little girl down the aisle.” As the 2013 legislative session begins, the General Assembly has more pro-equality members serving than at any time in history. The House version of the bill has a record 42 cosponsors, while the Senate bill has 11 cosponsors. As the first stop on our road to victory for marriage equality, the House Judiciary Committee heard testimony on HB5015 on Tuesday, January 15. Supporters from all walks of life testified in favor of equality until just past 11pm – many from the coalition groups listed above, but most were just everyday Rhode Islanders who shared their personal stories. Mothers and fathers spoke of wanting their LGBT children to have access to the unique recognition and protection offered by civil marriage. Partners spoke of decades of loving relationships while suffering indignity or calamity because they were not legally spouses. Children asked why their families were less worthy of recognition than friends and neighbors with straight parents. These are the stories and the people MERI fights for. At this writing, the House Judiciary Committee has scheduled a vote on the bill for Tuesday, January 22. The full House is expected to vote soon after that – and, hopefully, send marriage equality to the Senate. We are closer than ever before, but we cannot take anything for granted. Join MERI for the final push and help to make history. Sign up to volunteer at http://riunited.org. Attend a phone bank, come out for a canvass and raise your voice for equality. q

AIDS Community Watch Men2MenRI Website Roll Out Date Set for March, 2013

grounds, as well as local familiar Rhode Island scenes and landmarks, will be used throughout the site.

In collaboration with the RI Alliance for Gay/Bisexual Men’s Health, AIDS Project Rhode Island (APRI) is developing a cutting-edge website, www.men2menRI.org, specifically designed to meet the holistic health needs and other interests of men in Rhode Island.

APRI is asking men in Rhode Island to help build the site by submitting their stories and photographs. If you are interested, please write Tom Bertrand at Thomas@aidsprojectri.org.

APRI has completed the early stages of www. men2menRI.org, with the goal of launching it in March. The site will have many unique and interactive features including: TT

TT TT

Find a gay-friendly health care provider in Rhode Island Take the HIV Risk Quiz Share your personal story about coming out in Rhode Island

Ask Dr. Phil Chan your health question

Get involved in the community

Rhode Island’s Men’s Event and Activity Calendar

Know your health care rights

Top 10 Safe-sex Questions for Gay Men

A key feature of Men2MenRI.org is that it facilitates the sharing of advice and stories among men in Rhode Island about how to find a gay-friendly doctor, meet new friends, find a boyfriend, learn about social events and volunteer activities, and come out in Rhode Island. There will also be stories and advice from guys about living with HIV in Rhode Island. The website is intended to have a Rhode Island “look and feel,” so photos of real Rhode Island guys of all ages and back-

How will you say “I Do”?

Pathways to Healthy Housing Conference on April 2 AIDS Care Ocean State (ACOS) is pleased to announce the agency’s first all-day professional development housing conference scheduled for April 2 at the Providence Biltmore Hotel. The “Pathways to Healthy Housing” conference will target housing, construction, design and social service professionals serving those with HIV/AIDS in the greater Rhode Island area including southeastern Massachusetts, said Paul Fitzgerald, ACOS executive director.

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Personalized Ceremonies for your Wedding Cindy Zito – Officiant

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The conference will focus on the challenges facing professionals responding to the housing needs of those living with and caring for individuals with HIV/AIDS. According to Fitzgerald, “Conference participants will have access to resources, funding, networking opportunities and, most importantly, the tools to plan for future.”

seeks staff for their integrated - HIV, Hepatitis C and sexually transmitted infection (STI) program. Provide informational counseling services to individuals at significant risk for HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis and/or STI. Interview consumers to determine their level of knowledge, attitude, and behavior regarding HIV Disease, viral hepatitis and STI.

According to ACOS, more than 3,000 people in Rhode Island are infected with HIV/AIDS; 91% of HIV/AIDS cases are between 30-50+ years of age; 73% of those living with HIV/AIDS are male; and 21% of people living with HIV/AIDS identify as heterosexual.

High School graduate with two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional or paraprofessional experience in the field of health care, medical care, or public health education in a recognized hospital, medical facility or agency. At least two years continuous sobriety is required for people in recovery from drugs or alcohol. Bi-lingual in Portuguese/Spanish desirable. Must be open to working with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures and lifestyles in a nonjudgmental manner. Sensitivity to HIV issues and people with disabilities required. Valid drivers license, insurance and transportation.

Guests invited to the conference include regional representatives of the U.S. Depart-

Project Aware at SSTAR 386 Stanley Street Fall River, MA 02720 Until no one has HIV, we are all living with AIDS.

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Know your status.

ment of Housing and Urban Development and the RI Executive Office of Health and Human Services. Participants will be eligible to receive professional development credits. For conference details and registration, visit www.aidscareos.org or call 521-3603.

It’s Time to Party for Mardi Gras!

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.

It’s almost time to get out the masks, beads and spirits for Mardi Gras! ACOS is gearing up for the 2013 Mardi Gras Bon Fête on Saturday, February 23 at the Providence Biltmore Hotel in downtown Providence. This year’s Mardi Gras Bon Fête will be the party of the season and will include live music by the Debra Coppola Band, delicious hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. The party starts at 6:30 p.m. and goes until midnight. We strongly encourage Mardi Gras attire, so get creative! Each year, we crown the King and Queen of Mardi Gras who have the most creative and outrageous costumes. We will also be honoring our 2012 Partners in Philanthropy: Ralph Napalitano and Michael Slade, owners of the Stable in Downtown Providence. Ralph and Michael have been loyal supporters of ACOS, and we are delighted to honor them at Mardi Gras.

PORTRAITS

We invite you to join in the excitement of Mardi Gras by becoming a sponsor of the event. Sponsorships are an excellent way to promote your business or product to a diverse group of people who are committed to supporting the local community. Of course, we hope you will join us on February 23 to eat, drink, and dance the night away. For more information about sponsorships, please contact Stephen Hartley or Kalene Brennan at 401-521-3603. We look forward to seeing everyone in their best Mardi Gras garb on the 23rd of February.

2012 Holiday Giving Highlights ACOS is delighted to announce that we had a very successful holiday fundraising season. With the help of many local businesses, individuals, offices and more, we were able to raise over $19,500.00 for our annual Adopt-a-Family campaign.

JDHSPHOTOS.COM 401.624.6698 JDHSPhotos@verizon.net

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A remarkable number of toy drives resulted in over 1,500 toys and $7,400 in gift cards being delivered to the children of ACOS. We would like to thank Toys for Tots, the Stable, Tony DiLorenzo, the Annual Christmas Drag Brunch, GALA Bowling, CVS, the W Salon, Bank RI at Park Ave, Bank RI at Pitman Street, Town Hall Lanes, Field’s 16th Birthday Party, Mr. Bear RI 2011 Stephen Hogan’s Toy Drive, Charlie McGraw, Renaissance Softball League, Joe Reddish’s

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Christmas Party, the Gordon Center, Method Fitness, Sun in the City, Gay Bingo and Cymry’s Christmas Wish for making the holiday season memorable for the clients of ACOS. We would also like to thank the Providence Firefighters Union Local 799 for their donation to Sunrise House this holiday. We are extremely grateful for all of the donations that made the holidays memorable for our clients.

ward. Over 99% of guys who have gotten tested together at APRI say they would recommend it to their friends. This February, one way to say “I love you” to your partner is to talk to him about coming in for an HIV test. More information is available at www.aidsprojectri.org. Or give Jim Huseman a call at 207-8377 to make an appointment.

Drop off Your Donations Today! ACOS needs your stuff! Now that winter is in full swing, we are in need of winter jackets, gloves, hats, and scarves. ACOS’s Donation Center is now accepting donations of winter clothing, furniture, and other household items.

Photos taken at Toy Drive @ the Stable in December to benefit AIDS Care Ocean State.

Our Donation Center hours are Monday through Wednesday and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Donation Center is closed on Thursdays. You may drop your items off to our Donation Center at 557 Broad Street in Providence, or we can arrange to come and pick up your items. To schedule a pick-up, please call us at 781-5565.

Photography by Jack Hartwein-Sanchez

Valentine’s Special: Couples HIV Testing at APRI Got someone special in your life? Want to take your relationship to the next step but have never talked about HIV status? Or just think it’s time for you and your partner to get tested for HIV? Bringing up the topic of HIV and talking about it the first time can be uncomfortable and awkward, but it’s an important topic, especially because new HIV infections among gay men are on the rise in Rhode Island. A person can have HIV and not know it, and the majority of HIV transmission among gay men is from a primary partner. Through APRI’s couples HIV testing program, couples go through the entire HIV testing process together while sitting privately in the same room and learning each other’s results at the same time. Here are some other aspects of the HIV testing experience that make it easier and less stressful: TT

All testing is anonymous. You never have to provide your name or any other personal information. The counselors who conduct HIV testing are very friendly gay men who have been specially trained and have extensively worked with gay couples. No one is asked about previous partners or their sexual past. The service is totally FREE.

The primary goal of the testing is to help couples have peace of mind and important information going for-

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Rhode Island Pride Jennifer Stevens

through www.fetemusic.com. Fete is located at 103 Dike Street in Providence.

Two of RI Pride’s Most Popular Fundraisers are Coming Up! The 14th Annual “RI Pride Goddess Show: A Celebration of Women & Music” will take place in the Fete Lounge on Sunday, March 3, from 1-6 p.m. and will include such acts as Sarah Rich & Invincible We, Jess Powers and host Cat Ganim, with Catie Curtis as headliner. Tickets will be $20 in advance or $25 at the door and are available

This year’s Triple Crown Pageant will be Sunday, April 7, at the Biltmore Hotel in Providence. A pageant like no other, The Triple Crown is a fierce yet friendly competition resulting in the crowning of Mr. Gay, Ms. Lesbian and Miss Gay RI 2013. A panel of judges rate contestants on talent, use of theme, and evening wear. Winners represent RI Pride at major events and host fundraisers. Potential contestants should apply

in advance through www.prideri.com. Finally, PrideFest 2013 will be Saturday, June 15. Apply NOW to be a vendor, parade participant or performer at www. prideri.com. q

Photos from The Triple Crown Reunion, a fundraiser for Rhode Island Pride. Photography by Jack Hartwein-Sanchez

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SAGE/RI

Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders Sally Ann Hay

Mark Your Calendars -Movie Night Returns! Back by popular demand! SAGE/RI welcomes you all to our first movie night of 2013. At 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 17 (with the football season having ended - one way or another!), we will be gathering at DeVille’s Café (345 South Water Street, Providence) to watch a 2012 blockbuster that is expected to win some Oscars this year. We’re not giving away the title of our feature as Gina Bartolomucci (better known as simply ‘Gina’), the owner of DeVille’s, has asked us not to promote the movie by name. We can tell you the story takes place far, far away from here in a place you might even consider “exotic;” and that it has some wonderful characters to whom most of us can relate. But trust us, even if you’ve already seen the film, you’ll enjoy seeing it again especially with your friends from SAGE! Popcorn will be plenty and the café and bar will be open if you want to treat yourself to refreshments. Parking is readily available; donations to SAGE/RI will be welcome.

A Silver Lining? As mentioned in the last issue of Options, SAGE/RI took part in RI’s Senior Expo, put on by the Senior Agenda Coalition. We had some interesting conversations with a variety of folks, most of whom seemed intrigued and supportive of our mission. One such encounter was with the representatives from Rite@Home, a Medicaid program that supports people who are unable to live alone and yet want to remain in the community by offering screening and paying stipends for caregivers. Sometime

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after we had chatted (including commiserating about the lack of marriage equality in RI), the representative came back to our table to make the point that while it is unfair that same-gender marriage is not legal in RI, it does offer an advantage (in this situation) not enjoyed by married couples. One of the regulations for caregivers in this program is that they cannot be the disabled person’s spouse – so, should you be the caregiver of your same-gender partner, you may well be eligible for a stipend. For more information, contact Rite@Home (managed in RI by Seven Hills) at 1-401229-9760.

holding as part of the effort to develop a statewide plan for Alzheimer’s Disease and related disorders. She made it clear: she wants to hear from us. As this issue of Options is being prepared, SAGE/RI proudly joined Rhode Islanders United for Marriage, a coalition of groups and individuals who are committed to winning the fight for equal marriage rights THIS year! 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.

CHILDREN ADOLESCENTS ADULTS

Depression

2013 is Off to a Good Start

ADHD

…of course, we got a bit of a boost from the ending of 2012. Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts had invited us to meet with her and her Director of Public Policy, Lindsay McAllister. As we (SAGE/RI co-chairs Patricia Burbank and Marguerite McLauglin, and myself) made our way to her office, we were a bit concerned about our ‘presentation’. Remember the monsoon RI experienced in late December? Well, we had to literally slog our way through it to get to the State House. Despite that inauspicious beginning, the meeting went very well (we’re hoping her furniture has all dried out by now.) Roberts asked insightful questions, we had a lively discussion and we left with a clear sense that the Lt. Governor is committed to including the needs and concerns of RI’s LGBT elders in her work. She invited representatives from SAGE to attend the Long Term Care Coordinating Council (which she chairs) as well as the ‘listening sessions’ she has been

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Anxiety Self-esteem Study Skills/ Time Management Relationships/Intimacy

John D. DaPonte, CAGS Mental Health Counselor

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LGBTQ Community Center In 2011, Options launched the online survey that asked the Rhode Island LGBTQ community what they wanted. The idea was to create a community center -- a queer headquarters -- and the survey was to serve as an informal needs assessment. The response was very encouraging: 94% of respondents said they were in favor of a community center, and 77% said they’d be willing to volunteer their time and energy to such a project. The list of what they wanted was impressive: From speed dating to a library and everything in between, the highest votes were for alcohol-free events, family-friendly events, HIV testing, educational workshops and referrals to LGBTQ-friendly faith communities, lawyers and doctors. An incorporating committee was formed, made up of people who shared the vision of a visible, safe, convenient and welcoming space for LGBTQ Rhode Islanders. The center was incorporated in 2011, and the

committee got busy laying the groundwork. Meeting monthly, they created by-laws, policies and budgets; staffed a booth at the 2012 Pride Festival; and worked to reach out to queer organizations in the state. As of this writing, the committee has gotten commitments from the following organizations: AIDS Care Ocean State; Youth Pride, Inc; Providence Gay Men’s Chorus; Options; PFLAG of Greater Providence; TGI Network of RI; SAGE/RI; AIDS Project Rhode Island and COLAGE. ACOS and APRI plan to do HIV/AIDS testing at the center, Options will be based there, SAGE is willing to manage the library and YPI is committed to helping create programming for young adults as they age out of Youth Pride’s service demographic. Conversations with other groups and organizations continue – MERI, Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD), RI Pride, ICRI and others; the committee anticipates that all RI LGBTQ organizations will join the effort.

RHODE ISLAND LGBTQ CENTER Two community meetings were held in January, both of which were informative and well attended. Many attendees had suggestions based on their own experience at other queer community centers around the country, and several expressed interest in getting more involved. The committee is in the process of naming a board of directors and applying to the state for non-profit status, after which a fundraising campaign will be mounted. “The only thing standing in our way now is money,” said committee member Stephen Hartley. “This has the potential to be great, but we can’t do it without everyone’s support.” For more information, find them on Facebook or write to RILGBTQcenter@ gmail.com. q

Marjorie L. Roblin, LISCW

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Defining Transgender The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has agreed to no longer classify people who are transgender and/or gender variant as having mental illness. The revisions to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) mirrors similar moves to declassify homosexuality as a mental illness in this country in 1973. Until now “Gender Identity Disorder” (GID) was used to label people who are transgender. This has been used as a basis for arguing against the rights of trans people. The new edition of the DSM will label trans people as having “Gender Dysphoria,” a term that refers to the distress caused by “a marked incongruence between one’s experienced/expressed gender and assigned gender.” We asked Gwendolyn Howard, D.Min, MSW, LICSW, for her reaction Many professionals in the mental health community know very little (if anything) about gender variance. For them, this may serve to raise issues that they hadn’t felt the need to consider in the past.

The most recent reports I’ve read suggest that the plan is to replace “gender identity disorder” with “gender dysphoria.” A significant proportion of the trans community requires medical intervention to transition, and I think that retaining some acknowledgment of the seriousness of these gender issues may help serve as ammunition in the fight to keep insurance companies from continuing to trivialize what’s involved (calling it “elective” or “merely cosmetic”) and denying coverage.

Many professionals in the mental health community know very little (if anything) about gender variance. For them, this may serve to raise issues that they hadn’t felt the need to consider in the past.

A few years ago, when I was in graduate school, I had a textbook on “mental disorders” written by an author who had great breadth of knowledge (but not always much depth). What he wrote on “gender identity disorder” was a little silly and also inaccurate. I wrote an email to him challenging his book. Not only was his response positive, but he demonstrated an interest in looking at the issues involved more carefully in the future. For those of us who deal with trans issues, the change in the DSM seems long overdue -- but the change will help educate those who have very little personal experience with those issues.

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I also think that the term “dysphoria” is an accurate description of what many trans people face without having to stigmatize them/us with words like “disorder.” Of course, the prejudices experienced by any who are labeled “mentally ill” is something we should all be addressing – but that’s a

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different conversation. The standards of care for trans people have been in flux for a long time. I’m not sure how much effect this change will have, except, of course, some clueless professionals may actually start to have a clue. I would suggest that good therapists are good therapists, whether or not they know much about trans life. Knowledge, I think, is less important than being a caring, humane person. If you’re choosing a therapist, spend some time with them discussing their outlook and style. Furthermore, “gender dysphoria” can make life very complicated with issues that might not even have to do with gender as such. A good therapist ought to be willing to learn. Transphobia in the gay community often takes on one of two forms. It can be an attempt to say, “Hey, I may be different, but at least I’m not one of THOSE people.” It can also manifest as the assumption that you know as much (or more) about trans people, our lives and our experiences than we do ourselves. Challenging someone when they have expressed a prejudice can be very difficult (if not frightening), but it is always the first step. q

Project Weber continued from page 14 politics. “I saw people in my work that I recognized from the street. They didn’t want to be outed as patronizing male sex workers, and so they did not want the issue on the table.” Rich and Jimmy continued their work, and began to dream of a drop-in center. They obtained a mini-grant to do a needs assessment, and used the money to purchase 7/Eleven gift cards as incentives for men to take their survey. Within nine days, they had interviewed 50 street workers. I was surprised at this number, as I am not aware of male sex workers at all, and Holcomb told me that they are not easy to spot by those who are not involved. “Female sex workers are often easy to spot,” he said, “but a male sex worker just looks like a kid waiting for the bus.” In fact, he said he could easily have gotten many more interviews, finding countless subjects on street corners, outside sex shops and behind the Megaplex. “This city is a sex tourism destination – we have two bathhouses and lots of sex workers. On a Saturday night you’ll see license plates from all the surrounding states and beyond behind our sex shops and clubs.”

Jimmy and Rich left behind. “Most of these guys are straight. Most have families. And all of them are drug-addicted. You can’t do this work clean – it is impossible to deal with the degradation and the emotions without the drugs.” They operate on a shoestring – no one, Holcomb says, wants to fund an initiative to help male prostitutes. “They are like the scum of the earth, and very few people care about them.”

“There was this one guy, a young kid named Joey. He was addicted to bath salts and crack. He was so sick; he had to use a wheelchair. And we were talking to him about getting clean, getting free. When he turned away from us and disappeared into the darkness, I saw tears in the eyes of the director. That was when I knew this was going to be a good thing.”

Once the two men had the surveys, Project Weber was born, named for a young male sex worker found murdered on Christmas day a few years ago. They continue to work relentlessly to bring alternatives to the men who are still engaging in the work that

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But Jimmy and Rich have been able to get their message out to a number of groups through trainings and seminars, speaking before the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care and the 2010 HIV Summit. Holcomb has traveled to other countries that have programs like the one he envisions, and they both hope that their program will be a model someday. A student approached the two men while they were doing a training at Brown University. He was making a documentary on the AIDS treatment called Prep, and needed to talk to men at risk for HIV. He asked if he might tag along with them. Once terms had been agreed upon, the filmmak-

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ers ventured out, quickly deciding that there was a “whole other movie here. They followed us around,” Holcomb said, “and interviewed 36 guys.” Initially, Holcomb was cautious, worried about exploitation of the workers, but a particularly poignant moment early on convinced him that the filmmakers were on board. “There was this one guy, a young kid named Joey. He was addicted to bath salts and crack. He was so sick; he had to use a wheelchair. And we were talking to him about getting clean, getting free. When he turned away from us and disappeared into the darkness, I saw tears in the eyes of the director. That was when I knew this was going to be a good thing.” Now we can all decide for ourselves: The movie, titled Invisible, is finished and will have its premiere – a one-time showing -- on Thursday, February 7 at the Providence Place Mall Cinema at 7 p.m. Rich has seen the rough cut of the film and found it “amazing.” Tickets are $10, which will be split between the filmmakers and Project Weber. I asked Rich how he felt about being a role model, and he held up his hand. “I’m no role model,” he said. “I’m human, just like everyone else. I just needed to understand that I was more than my behaviors, more than what happened to me as a child. And I hope that this film shows people that these guys are not so different from you and me. They’re not bad people, and they deserve to be cared about.” For more information, visit projectweber.org or find them on Facebook. q

Classified Advertising Got an apartment to rent? Condo to sell? Looking for a housemate? 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 • 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.

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. NOTE: All phone numbers are in the 401 area code unless otherwise indicated.

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.

AIDS/Health Resources 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. 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

options please support this important community resource contribute advertise volunteer info@optionsri.org c thank you c options

Resources

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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. 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. 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.

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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.

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. org or call 941-2727. 118 No. Main St., Unit 3, 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. 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

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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 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. Calvary Episcopal Church, Open and welcoming. 158 Broad St., Burrilville, RI. 568-3888. www. calvaryepiscopal.us.email, calvary125@aol.com. 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. Pastor Katie Lawson, 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. (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 ceremonies 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

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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 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

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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. 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 Feminist Resources Network: Free, online e-community in which you are invited to share events or highlights in your organization or just find out what’s going on in our “like-minded” communities. www.rifrn.net RI Lesbian Social Club: social gatherings for women; email: 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 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 VegOut Rhode Island: Social group for LGBT vegetarians, vegans and friends. Potlucks, VegOutings to restaurants, and other fun. Visit www. meetup.com/vegout-ri 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.

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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. 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,

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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 YOGA for gays & lesbians. 9 a.m. Saturdays. All welcome. www/meetup.com/Gay-Meditation/. Fee applies. 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)6782811 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 Assn.: 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; http://www. myspace.com/colage_ri. 331-9844. 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): Weekly 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, 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. www.myspace.com/colage_ri Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) Coming Out Support Group: Monthly meetings professionally facilitated. www.meetup.com/ ComingOutRI/ Fee applies. Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group, meets in Boston First Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. www.compassftm.org, compassftm@comcast.net

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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/Bi/Lesbian Coming Out support Group: Facilitated meetings, social events. TJFronczak@ aol.com. Fee applies. 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@ 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.

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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-varient, 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. Meeting 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

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