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June/July 2012
Be Proud, Rhode Island!! It’s Pride month in Rhode Island. Time to put on our rainbow tee shirts and show our pride for who we are. And it’s time to go out and take part in the many very special pride events around the state. With all that is
“I do not favor marriage between people of the same gender, and I do not favor civil unions if they are identical to marriage other than by name.” --M. Romney
happening around the country, it is so important that we stick together, support one another and be OUT AND PROUD! (See the complete list of Pride Month Events on page 18.) Happy Pride!
“Same-sex couples should be able to get married.” -- Pres. Obama
North Carolina Bans Marriage Equality
In this issue:
2 Lesbians on the Loose 3 News Briefs 5 Letters, Op-Ed 7 Calendar 9 SEA Queer Census 12 TransJourney 14 Welcoming Congregations 16 This Month in Options History 17 Voices 18 OFFICIAL PRIDE MONTH CALENDAR 21 MERI 22 Old Lesbians Organizing for Change 23 SAGE 24 YPI 25 AIDS Community Watch
q Serving the RI LGBT Community Visit our Resources p. 27 options Since q 1982 q june/july 2012 Section onq
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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 fundraisers for the LGBT community in Rhode Island, and report in on who was there, who did what and with whom. As you can see, they take pictures, too. Look for them where you see queer people coming together for good causes!
Our
Next, we went to Comedy with a Twist: A benefit show featuring
New England gay and lesbian comics, held at The Comedy Connection in East Providence. Comics included Andrew Williams, John Kelley, Doug Blay, Mark Shea, Ellen Moschetto and Poppy Champlin as headliner. It was great to see so many people coming out to support this fundraiser for Options! RI favorite Miss Kitty Litter was also in attendance to show her support of the magazine and the comics. The energy of the crowd intensified as each comic came on, and by the time Poppy took the stage, we were rolling in the aisles. The audience even applauded when it was announced that there was a “newbie” in the audience - a woman’s first time being out and being at a LGBT event.
first check-in was on May 14, at the event celebrating Gov. Chafee’s signing of an executive order that out-of-state marriages will be recognized in Rhode Island. Held at the Roots Cultural Center in Providence, the energy was incredible as the community celebrated this historic event. Members of Marriage Equality Rhode Island were in attendance along with Representative Frank Ferri and many supporters who have fought for equality in the state of Rhode Island. Special thank you to Roots Cultural Center for hosting this event!
Very special thanks go out to all the comics, especially John and Mark, and to the Comedy Connection -- we’ll be back! Be on the lookout for us at upcoming events: Birthday Hi-Tini with Kitty Litter on June 4 at the Biltmore, Boston Pride & RI Pride. Remember it is important to show our support for organizations within our community - hope to see you all there! For more information on upcoming events, please visit Options’ online calendar at http://optionsri.org/calendar. And if you know of any events we should be attending, please email information to calendar@optionsri.org. XO, Annie & Melanie
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News Briefs Marriage Equality Momentum on the Rise In an ABC News interview on May 9, President Obama told a reporter, “I have to tell you that over the course of several years, as I have talked to friends and family and neighbors; when I think about members of my own staff who are in incredibly committed monogamous relationships, same-sex relationships, who are raising kids together; when I think about those soldiers or airmen or marines or sailors who are out there fighting on my behalf and yet feel constrained, even now that Don’t Ask Don’t Tell is gone, because they are not able to commit themselves in a marriage, at a certain point I’ve just concluded that ... I think same-sex couples should be able to get married.” MassEquality’s Kara Suffredini released a statement saying, in part, “It’s hard to imagine anything more significant to the marriage equality movement than
the most powerful leader in the world declaring his support for the right to marry for all Americans. It’s a powerful affirmation before the country and world of the basic human dignity of same-sex couples and their families.” In the days following President Obama’s announcement, the entire leadership of the Democratic Party expressed their support for marriage equality. Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed indicated his support of marriage equality, tweeting, “I support same sex-marriage and will cosponsor the Respect for Marriage Act.” Rep. Steny Hoyer (MD) stated “...Individuals have a right to choose their partners and society must accord them that freedom.” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (CA) has been a long-time supporter of marriage equality and was the first elected official to call on the Democratic Party to add marriage equality to their official platform.
Connecticut Supreme Court Finds Employers Liable for Anti-Gay Harassment On May 4, the Connecticut Supreme Court issued a decision in the Patino v. Birken Manufacturing Company case, ruling that employers can be liable if they fail to protect employees from harassment based on sexual orientation. Plaintiff Luis Patino was employed as a machinist by the defendant, and was the object of pervasive anti-gay name-calling for several years. By affirming that employees can sue employers for anti-gay harassment in the workplace, the Court rejected the defendant’s argument that workplace harassment claims are limited to sexual harassment.
Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders Publishes Transgender Family Law Book GLAD’s Transgender Family Law: A Guide to Effective Advocacy, published in May, is the first book to comprehensively address legal issues facing transgender people and provide practitioners with the tools to effectively represent transgender clients. “Some of the most heartbreaking stories I have heard in my career as an LGBT legal advocate involve transgender people in family courts,” said Jennifer L. Levi, a nationally recognized expert on
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transgender legal issues. “The rights of transgender people – as parents, spouses, and simply as human beings – are often trammeled in family court because of pervasive bias and misunderstanding. Transgender Family Law is a road map for transgender individuals and their attorneys to navigate the family court system in this evolving area of law.” For more information, visit www.glad.org/TFL.
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Providence City Council Supports Marriage Equality On the evening of May 17, the Providence City Council unanimously passed a resolution in favor of the Equal Access to Marriage Act and the Equal Access to Family Court Act (the “marriage” and “divorce” bills.) Options applauds Council President Solomon, Councilmen Yurdin, Zurier, Principe, Jackson, Narducci, Correia, Igliozzi, Jennings, Aponte, Sanchez, Hassett and Salvatore; and Councilwomen Matos and Castillo, for supporting Rhode Island’s LGBTQ community.
GLAD and BAGLY Unveil “Got Rights Project” for LGBTQ Youth Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) and BAGLY: The Boston Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Youth have created the “Got Rights Project” to educate LGBTQ students in Massachusetts about their legal rights and protections in school. The collaboration was prompted by the 2010 passage of the Massachusetts anti-bullying law, and materials include wristbands, bookmarks, brochures and a video. The centerpiece of the collaboration is an interactive workshop that is being presented around the state. “LGBTQ youth disproportionately experience discrimination, harassment and violence in and out of school settings,” said Jessica Flaherty, Director of Programs for BAGLY. “The Got Rights Project offers LGBTQ youth opportunities to gain or increase an understanding of their legal rights and puts them in direct contact with the legal services at GLAD.” The workshops are open to any youth who would like to attend. For more information, visit www.glad.org/ got-lgbtq-rights.
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From the Editor What an historic month it has been! A perfect lead-up to Rhode Island Pride Month, I’d say. You are going to want to set aside some time this month, dear reader, to get your self OUT and about -- there is literally something for everyone this month! And all of it climaxing in our grand festival and parade on June 16. It only happens once a year -- don’t miss it!
Tony Aguilar, whose company New Flavor Media happens to share office space with Options. Tribe is dedicated to diversity in every sense of the word, and so you know that includes us! I was the lucky one who got to interview a group of young LGBT community members for an article in Tribe’s summer issue. Find it at www.triberi.com. Happy reading and Happy Pride!
In other news, I’m pleased to call your attention to a new publication in Rhode Island. It’s called Tribe, the brainchild of Mr.
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JUNE/JULY 2012 q Vol. XXXI, No. 5 Managing Director Kim Stowell editor@optionsri.org Writers Thomas Bertrand, Kalene Brennan, Jessica Cinquegrana, Dawn Euer, Brian Gay, Sally Hay, Kerri Kanelos, Emma Garrett Nelson, Myra Shays, Jennifer Stevens Copy Editors Ronan Askrsen, Brian Gay, Steve Kagan, Joseph Morra, Emma Garrett Nelson, Maria Phillips, Andrea Ritter, Jim Seavor, Myra Shays Calendar Editor Annie Cronin-Silva calendar@optionsri.org Resources Editor Myra Shays mshays@verizon.net
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© OPTIONS 2012. 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 August issue must be delivered by July 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.
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Letter
Op-Ed
To the Editor As spiritual leaders of a number of LGBT Rhode Islanders, we are delighted that Governor Chafee has acted to extend recognition to same-sex marriages performed outside Rhode Island. Because of the governor’s action, numerous Rhode Islanders will now have access to the family court system. This move will also uphold other civil rights they have been accorded elsewhere. Hopefully the full equality of Rhode Island’s LGBT citizens will be recognized legally in the near future. We want to express our gratitude to Governor Chafee for taking this bold step. Rev. Jakob Lazarus, LBJC, Pastor Rev. John P. Reardon, Associate Pastor Church of the Holy Paraclete 155 Douglas Ave. Providence, RI 02908 (508) 272-1652
The Affordable Care Act Improves the Lives of LGBT Rhode Islanders by Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts This past March marked the second anniversary of the passage of the national health reform bill, the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Implementation of the law in Rhode Island aims to achieve improved health through universal access to high-quality healthcare; to pay for and deliver that care in more efficient ways; and to make it affordable and sustainable for all Rhode Islanders. LGBT Rhode Islanders will benefit from the law in distinct ways. The ACA creates new coverage options for LGBT Rhode Islanders, including those who don’t have access to coverage through a spouse, domestic partner or employer; and those who have pre-existing conditions that historically prevented them from obtaining coverage. LGBT parents are able to keep their adult children, who lack access to coverage through an employer, on the parents’ health plans up to Continued on next page
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Passages
Janice was pre-deceased by her beloved son Scott Thomas. She is survived by her sister Meredith Allison of Annapolis, MD and Narragansett, RI. She leaves four daughters: Pamela Thomas Goucher, and her husband Christopher of Freeport, ME; Barbara Thomas Goudas and her husband Nicholas, of Webster, MA.; Marilyn Thomas and her partner Barbara Cough, of Portland, ME; and Carolyn Thomas and her partner Jennifer Curran of Falmouth, ME. Janice also leaves Douglas Montgomery of San Francisco, CA, a dear friend who cared for her son Scott in sickness and in health.
APRI and PFLAG Activist Dies Janice F. Wood-Thomas, 87, a lifelong resident of Rhode Island, died April 11 at Bay Square, Yarmouth, Maine, of complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Born July 12, 1924, in Cumberland, Janice graduated from Pawtucket East High School and Pembroke College of Brown University. She received her Masters in Library Science from the University of Rhode Island in 1970, and worked as the librarian at Scituate Junior-Senior High School from 1970 until her retirement in 1994. Janice was a strong-willed woman who cared deeply about education and equal rights. She was active in PFLAG, and was on the Board of Directors of both AIDS Project RI and AIDS Quilt RI.
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Donations in her memory may be made to the Brown University Annual Fund, Box 1976, Providence, RI 02912; AIDS Project RI, PO Box 6688, Providence, RI 02940; or to Equality Maine, PO Box 1951, Portland, ME 04104.
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Jennifer P. Heald Jennifer Pa . H Attorney t Leald aw Attorney at Law Estate Estate P Planning lanning
Wills Wills & & T Trusts rusts Powers of Attorney Health Care are P Proxies roxies Health C Living Wills Living Wills Probate Probate
age 26. Because of the Affordable Care Act, LGBT seniors were among the nearly 15,800 people with Medicare in Rhode Island who received a $250 rebate to help cover the cost of their prescription drugs last year. Access to care for low-income LGBT individuals (those with income at or below 133% of the poverty level) will be made available through an expansion of Medicaid.
The ACA is supporting a more diverse health-care workforce with investments to address the cultural competencies of doctors and other medical providers. The law is also promoting increased research and data collection on health disparities to give policymakers the knowledge and tools they need to continue to address health issues specific to LGBT communities.
By 2014 Rhode Islanders will have access to a “health benefits exchange,” an online marketplace where LGBT individuals and small-business owners will easily be able to compare and purchase affordable coverage. Under the ACA, LGBT small business owners also have access to tax credits up to 25%, and up to 35% for non-profits, of premiums paid for providing insurance to their employees.
Although there is still much work to be done, the ACA is making tremendous strides toward improving health-care access, affordability and protections for LGBT families and individuals. The progress we’ve made to date in Rhode Island could not have been accomplished without the millions in funding the reform law has provided for our efforts, as well as the hundreds of Rhode Islanders who are working to make affordable healthcare a reality for everyone in our state, including the LGBT community.
The [Affordable Care Act] creates new coverage options for LGBT Rhode Islanders, including those who don’t have coverage through a spouse, domestic partner or employer.
791 Main Road 3.5 x 2.275. Westport, MA 02790 791 Main Road
(508) 636-9090 Westport, MA 02790
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In addition to the help the ACA has brought to young adults of LGBT parents, families, seniors and small businesses, the health reform law also makes preventive services available without any deductible or copay, and removes lifetime monetary limits on health benefits--allowing for comprehensive treatment of chronic diseases.
Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth H. Roberts is Chair of the RI Healthcare Reform Commission. (For more info, visit www.healthcare.gov, keyword: LGBT)
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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.
Be sure to check out the RI Pride list of June 2012 Pride Events, beginning on page 18.
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Boston GAY PRIDE Week: Fri. June 1 – Mon. June 11. List of events available at http://www.bostonpride.org/bostonprideweek. Boston Pride Flag Raising, City Hall Plaza, Boston, Noon June 1.
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9 p.m.–12 a.m. Luna’s Ladies Night. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music and DJ. 21+, $6 cover. For more information, see www.lunaspvd.com.
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10 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Pride day at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston.
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6 – 9 p.m. Official Launch Party of the Rhode Island Democratic LGBTQ Caucus. Aspire Restaurant, 311 Westminster St. Providence. Special Mistress of Ceremonies: Miss Kitty Litter. Suggested donation: $20.12 (But, $20 is fine too.) For more information, find the RI Democratic Party LGBTQ Caucus Facebook page (RIDP LGBTQ Caucus).
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Imperial Court Investitures. Hosted by Regent Emperor XX Michael and Empress XX Savannah Devereaux. 6–9 p.m., $10 admission benefits RI Pride. The Dark Lady, 17 Snow St., Providence.
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5:30 - 8 p.m. Birthday Hi-Tini! Providence Biltmore, 11 Dorrance St. 3rd Floor Garden Terrace. Come celebrate the birthdays of Miss Kitty Litter and Jeanne D’Agostino. Proceeds to benefit AIDS Care Ocean State and the Highlander Charter School. Tickets $30.
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7:15 - 9:30 p.m. Big Gay Al’s Summer Session. Bowling every Tuesday. Town Hall Lanes, Johnston. Email BigGayAlBowling@aol. com with any questions.
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6:45 - 8:45 p.m. PFLAG Providence monthly meeting @ The Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. www.pflagprovidence.org.
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6:30 - 8:30 p.m. TransPartners 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 withheld for privacy. Contact partners@tginetwork.org for details.
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7 - 8:30 p.m. Boston Dyke March Committee Meeting Eastern Bank Meeting Room, Davis Sq. Somerville, MA.
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7 p.m. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus presents “Out on the Bay.” Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset St., Providence. A madcap, zany, fun performance of both well-known and little-known songs with that special “twist of gaiety” that makes each show fun, moving and memorable. $20. Also Saturday, June 9, and Sunday, June 10.
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9 p.m. – 12 a.m. Luna’s Ladies Night. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St Providence. Live music and DJ. 21+, $6 cover. For more information, see www.lunaspvd.com.
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Boston Pride Parade & Festival. Theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of
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Marjorie L. Roblin, LISCW Marjorie L. Roblin, LISCW
Counseling & Psychotherapy Counseling & Psychotherapy
Worldwide Pride Movement.” 12 – 3 p.m. Boston Pride Parade.
Parade. Festival opens at noon; parade starts at dusk. www.prideri.com.
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7 p.m. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus presents “Out on the Bay.” Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset St., Providence. See June 7 for details.
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Prime Timers - A club to aid and support the aging gay and bisexual man. Social from 4:30-5 p.m.; dinner and meeting from 5-7. $20 per person. See www. riprimetimers.org.
10:30 p.m. – 12 Midnight YPI Pride Party! 743 Westminster St. Providence. YPI hosts a Pride party starting at the end of the parade. More info coming soon! www. youthprideri.org.
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7 p.m. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus presents “Out on the Bay.” Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset St., Providence. See June 7 for details.
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6 – 9 p.m. Mass Transgender Political Coalition’s Annual Transgender Town Hall Meeting. Eastworks in Easthampton, MA. In conjunction with GLAD’s book launch for Transgender Family Law. Visit www.masstpc.org/calendar/ for more listings. 7:15 - 9:30 p.m. Big Gay Al’s Summer Session Bowling, Every Tuesday; Town Hall Lanes, Johnston.
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6:30 - 8:30 p.m. RI Pride Events Committee meeting, RI Pride Center 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket #1105.
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7 – 8 p.m. Pride Interfaith Service. Temple Beth-El, Orchard Ave., Providence.
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6 - 9:30 p.m. Pride Gay Bingo: Somewhere Over the Rainbow! The Riviera Bingo Palace, Elmwood Avenue, Cranston.
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9 p.m. – 12 a.m. Luna’s Ladies NightRoots Cultural Center-276 Westminister St Providence. Live music and DJ. 21+, $6 cover. For more information, see www. lunaspvd.com.
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RI PRIDE FESTIVAL & PARADE! All day RI PrideFest & Illuminated Night
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11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Drag Brunch, Murphy’s Deli & Bar, 100 Fountain Street, Providence.
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YPI Center Closed for CVS Tournament
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YPI Center Closed for CVS Tournament
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7:15 - 9:30 p.m. Big Gay Al’s Summer Session-Bowling Every Tuesday Town Hall Lanes, Johnston.
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All day - YPI Closed
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6:30 - 8:30 p.m. PRIDE Board Meeting RI Pride Center 1005 Main St. Pawtucket.
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7 - 9:30 p.m. The Queer Book Club. Books on the Square, Angell St., Providence. Email queerbookclub@aol.com.
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All day - YPI Closed
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9 p.m. – 12 a.m. Luna’s Ladies Night. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music and DJ. 21+, $6 cover. For more information, see www. lunaspvd.com.
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Noon – 6 p.m. SouthCoast Equality Pride. Custom House Sq., Downtown New Bedford. Entertainment, vendors, much more. Family-friendly! www. southcoastequality.org.
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7 – 9 p.m. MERI Community Meeting MERI Headquarters, 118 North Main St., Suite 3, Providence.
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7:15 - 9:30 p.m. Big Gay Al’s Summer Session Bowling. Town Hall Lanes, Johnston.
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7 – 9 p.m. RI Pride General Meeting RI Pride Center - 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket #1105.
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9 p.m. – 12 a.m. Luna’s Ladies Night. 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music and DJ. 21+, $6 cover. For more information, see www.lunaspvd.com.
JULY 4
No PFLAG meeting this July.
July 7-15 Provincetown Bear Week. For more information: www.ptownbears.org 15
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11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. LGBT Family Fun Day! Pack a picnic lunch and bring your children for a day of safe, LGBT-friendly fun. Free. Rocky Hill School, 530 Ives Rd., East Greenwich. Games, crafts, treats, prizes and more! Sponsored by Options Newsmagazine and Rocky Hill School. Email info@optionsri.org for more info. q
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Creating Dialogue; Creating Change Brian Gay
tgi network of rhode island education • advocacy • support
for transgender • intersex gender-variant • transsexual genderqueer • people and those who love them Please email info@tginetwork.org for more information.
Coming out. Confidentiality. Econom- to movement-builders and social-change adic hardship. These are just a few key issues vocates to understand, include and empowfacing the LGBTQ Southeast Asian com- er our nation’s [LGBTQ] Southeast Asian munity, according to a recent report by the Americans.” Queer Southeast Asian (QSEA) Network. According to both Lam and the report, A national alliance of organizations and in- coming out is a serious issue for the LGdividuals, QSEA Network BTQ SEA community. members work together to Hello! Sabaidee! “Coming-out stories and capture and improve the Sawatdee! Ja Reap Soua! data suggest that an alterexperience of the QSEA native coming-out model Chao! Nyob Zoo! community living in the and culturally competent United States. In 2010, Welcome to the survey programming is needed the QSEA Network conto address the unique for QSEAAs! ducted a survey – the 2010 experiences and chalQueer Southeast Asian lenges faced by LGBTQ Census – that collected Southeast Asians.” One data from over 530 LGof the primary factors BTQ SEA Americans livcomplicating the cominging in the United States. out experience for SEA The results of that survey folks is language. The will help Network memexecutive summary notes bers to focus their work that “there are no positive in order to better meet the words within the Hmong, needs of the community Khmer, Lao or Vietnamthey serve. Options met ese languages to describe with Kevin Lam, program an alternative sexual orimanager of Southeast entation.” Thus for many Asian Queers United for SEA youth, whose parEmpowerment and Leadents are often immigrants ership (seaQuel), to gain and speak their native further understanding language in the home, the of the report and how it discussion of sexual idenrelates to the Southeast tity is severely limited. Asian community here in Rhode Island. In addition to language, cultural expecAccording to the executive summary of tations can also weigh heavily on a SEA the report, “While there is scholarship and LGBTQ person’s decision whether or not research on our nation’s largest population to come out. “The issue of coming out is of refugees, there is a striking absence of very prevalent, because of how sexuality inresearch on queer Southeast Asian Ameri- tersects with race and culture,” says Lam. cans. It is the hope of the QSEA Network “Most of the Southeast Asian youth come that this report also serves as a call to action
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www.tginetwork.org 401-274-5551 BRUCE J. THOMPSON, Ph.D. 200 Waterman Street Providence, Rhode Island PsychotherapyfgGay Men (not getting any younger?) CHILDREN ADOLESCENTS ADULTS
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is more than helping a child. It’s providing Foster Parenting is hope for their Foster Parenting ismore more than family.than helping a helping a child. It’s providingFoster child. providing Become aIt’s Parent. hope for their family. for their family.
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Not surprisingly, the findings show that SEA queer youth often rely on their siblings, rather than parents or members of the older generations, for support. Given the particular challenges these youth face in opening up about their LGBTQ identity to their parents and other adults in their families, the Network emphasizes the need for confidentiality on the part of service providers working with this population.
Become a Foster Parent. Tormey
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from families where the older generation came as refugees escaping the war in Southeast Asia. It is tough to come out and feel comfortable in a person’s sexuality, because of the pressures placed on the younger generation from the older community and family members.”
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“The language barrier and generational gap is a big thing Providence Youth Student Movement (PrYSM) has been working on addressing in our community as well,” says Lam. “We want to be able to bring in the older generation as allies with our work, so we can bridge the gap and open dialogue between the generations. seaQuel always makes an effort to attend traditional events, such as Cambodian New Year and Laotian New Year. At the events, seaQuel helps volunteer…whatever assistance they need in their events, but also address the issues affecting the youth, such as racial profiling, and the visibility of the QSEA community.” Another issue that further complicates the lives of Southeast Asian queers is economic hardship. The US Census found that a little over one out of every four (25.3%) LGBTQ SEA persons surveyed reported that one or both of their parents are unemployed, while nearly three out of four (73.6%) survey takers reported that their families receive public assistance. “Respondents reported incidents of discrimination, prejudice and violence based on their gender expression (39%), sexual orientation (58%) and race/ethnicity (68%).
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LGBTQ SEA persons don’t only face discrimination from people within the SEA community, but also experience discrimination and feelings of isolation within the LGBTQ community. Over 20% of respondents stated that they have directly experienced racism and racial prejudice in LGBTQ spaces, with almost half stating that they felt uncomfortable in LGBTQ spaces because they were the only Southeast Asian. In response to all the information gathered by this 2010 Census, the QSEA Network issued a set of recommendations urging greater visibility; more inclusive practices; safe and meaningful education; funding streams that recognize, value and support LGBTQ SEA organizations; and the passage of federal legislation that reduces discrimination and affirms the civil rights of all LGBTQ individuals, families and communities. “As of right now,” says Lam, “PrYSM: seaQuel’s main focus has Khmer Girls in Action been addressing the need for greater visibility of the QSEA community. With more visibility of the community, it will be able to push PrYSM: seaQuel’s work further in creating change for the community”.
Planning with Pride Did you know that: same-sex couples face higher costs of living than those in a federally recognized marriage? the retirement and long term care planning needs of LGBT boomers vary significantly from those of the general aging population? there are many ways for domestic partners to protect their rights and wishes with proper advanced planning? To learn about the important financial issues that uniquely affect the LGBT community, contact me to set up a complimentary initial consultation.
Karen Melo, CFP®, ADPASM Financial Planner www.karen-melo.com kmelo@oceanstatefinancial.com Tel.: (401) 432-8805 ADPASM is the Accredited Domestic Partner Advisor designation, preparing Karen to better serve you. Karen Melo is a registered representatives of, and offers securities products and investment advisory services through New England Securities Corp., (NES) (member FINRA/SIPC), a registered investment advisor. Branch address: 401 Wampanoag Trail #100, East Providence, RI 02915. L0512255304[exp0513][MA,ME,NH,RI,VT]
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After helping out at the Cambodian and Laotion New Year celebrations in April, the group got right to work prepping for Pride 2012. They also are involved in a national video project, and are hoping to film a documentary about members’ coming out stories in the fall. “Through involvement in the various local and national projects,” says Lam, “we hope to bring a greater visibility locally as well as nationally to the QSEA community and their issues.” For more information about seaQuel, visit www. prysm.us. q
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TransJourney:
Bringing understanding and dignity Edited by Emma Garrett Nelson Alexia Kosmider is a professor at the Rhode Island School of Design and lives in Providence. In 2004, Alexia created the Shifting Visions Films Project, a nonprofit film company that explores subjects that have been previously misrepresented or overlooked by larger film companies, and creates educational documentaries that foster a greater sensitivity to contemporary social and cultural issues. You may have heard of
their recent film project, Sappho’s Fire, about the challenges faced by elderly lesbians. The film premiered at the Boston LGBT Film Festival, and has traveled throughout New England and the Northwest. Alexia’s current project is called TransJourney. The film explores three women’s personal journeys and the ways that their lives have become intertwined and made
Shannon stronger from knowing one another. Three years ago Annabelle, who was assigned male at birth, came out to her family and friends as female and began her transition towards life as a woman. Annabelle’s mother, Sandra, who has fully embraced her daughter’s new life, is working to understand what it
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means to be a transwoman in modern society. As part of this process, Sandra has befriended Shannon, an older transwoman who lives in Seattle. Sandra contacted Shannon at Annabelle’s suggestion to provide guidance in caring for Annabelle after her gender confirmation surgery. As Shannon prepares for her own surgery, she also struggles with illness and discrimination. The completed film will include Sandra and Shannon meeting for the first time.
TransJourney embodies all of our stories, for all of us are searching for acceptance for who we are, regardless of life’s circumstances. This documentary is everyone’s journey, a search for authentic self, love and affirmation. For many transwomen, there is a price to be paid for living fully and honestly – a very steep price. Some do not survive the journey and they take their lives; others abandon the journey as the logistical hurdles are too difficult, or it simply costs too much in terms of family, jobs and respect in the communities in which they live. In making the film, Alexia and Shifting Visions hope to give a voice to transgender peoples’ hopes, desires and fears, and look deeply into their worlds, demystifying their lives, and more importantly, bringing dignity to their experiences. The transgender world remains mostly invisible to larger society and even to some members of the LGBTQ community. Alexia hopes to premiere the completed film at the 2013 Boston LGBTQ Film Festival, and later have it screened at universities and colleges throughout the United States. For more information, visit www.shiftingvisions.com. q
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Faith, Acceptance and Love A selection of welcoming congregations Church of the Holy Paraclete Joe Siegel Church of the Holy Paraclete in Providence provides an inclusive place for Rhode Island LGBT people to worship. Holy Paraclete is an Old Catholic Church not affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. The Pastor is Father Jacob Lazarus and the Associate Pastor is Father John Reardon. Masses are held every Sunday at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. “The Church of the Holy Paraclete offers LGBT individuals a community where they can live the Catholic sacramental life in an atmosphere that recognizes and affirms their LGBT identity,” said Fr. Reardon. “There are some wonderful progressive Roman Catholic parishes out there, but even they have to pay lip service at some level to teachings that are associated with a history of shaming and marginalizing LGBT people. There are other Christian denominations out there that are LGBT-affirming, but some LGBT Catholics who have worshipped in those churches have found they’ve missed the central Catholic understanding of faith and sacraments.” Church of the Holy Paraclete adheres to the basic Christian principles underlying
sexual ethics but has shown a willingness to look at developments in psychology, biology and scripture scholarship. Explains Fr. Reardon: “We celebrate same-sex unions and permit divorced people to remarry in the church without seeking an annulment.” Reardon, who holds a Ph.D. in Theology, was once a Roman Catholic priest. Being a part of Church of the Holy Paraclete has been tremendously fulfilling to him as a gay man. “Holy Paraclete has given me a community of like-minded people who have dealt with similar issues,” Reardon said. “Here, I am able to live out my priestly vocation in a manner that is personally healthy for me. I don’t like the fact that the Christian church is broken down into denominations. But that’s the best we can do for now. Our mission at Holy Paraclete is to offer Catholic worship and community for people who, for whatever reason, don’t feel welcome in other churches or who have been hurt by other churches.” Several church members recently attended a weekend retreat at a conference center in Exeter. The two-day event featured meditation, prayer and group discussions. The attendees shared the stories of their own
Let us know about your house of worship! Write to editor@optionsri.org. Also, there are many more welcoming and affirming congregations listed in our Resources section, beginning on page 27.
personal journeys and relationships with Jesus Christ. “It reflected the communitarian, egalitarian spirit we try to cultivate,” Reardon said. “I was there as a parish leader, but I also grew as a fellow Christian learning from other people’s joys, struggles, and wisdom. For us to be away together allowed us to get to know each other much more deeply than we are able to do on Sundays. I think the retreat built bonds of friendship and community that will spill over into the broader life of the church.” For more information, go to the church’s website at: http://holyparaclete.org.
Interweave at Channing Memorial Church in Newport Home of the “Born This Way Prom” Pam Goff In June of 2003, Channing Memorial Unitarian Universalist Church in Newport became a “Welcoming Congregation.” We stood with other religious communities to affirm the LGBTQ people in our faith and to declare ourselves to be an open and inclusive community. We are an affiliate of the Unitarian Universalist Association. Interweave at Channing was established three years ago as an active member organization of LGBTQ people and their straight
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allies. One of our goals was to create a faithbased group that supports LGBTQ folks on Aquidneck Island by moving from progressive theology to social justice. Interweave actively works toward ending oppression based on sexual orientation and gender identity, recognizing that we will not be free until all oppression is a thing of the past. In these three years we have worked hard to support marriage equality in our state. We sponsored MERI rallies at Channing Church as well as attending State House rallies. Several Interweave members also contributed personal testimony. Interweave will continue this work until the day when all Rhode Island couples will have equal and full marriage rights. We educate through our potluck dinners and films. These films address and recognize the religious shaming and persecution as well as the political oppression and discrimination of our LGBTQ family. We sponsor educational workshops and attend statewide events that serve to support and publicize the inequities suffered by the children, mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers in our LGBTQ families. “UUs celebrate the inherent worth and dignity of every person. We seek to build a peaceful, just and compassionate society,” the President of the UU Association of Congregations, William Sinkford, said in a recent letter. “We welcome people of all different beliefs, and we believe that spiritual life is personal: a relationship between the individual and deity or spiritual force, however you define it. We believe no one should have their beliefs defined for them.” You need not attend services or join our church in order to be a member of Interweave. At one of our first Interweave meetings, our founder, Lee Whittaker, mentioned that he would love to hold a dance in the spring. He then spoke of how he had never attended a prom. He dreamed of wearing a tuxedo and dancing the night away. As a privileged, white, straight extrovert, my experience had been the opposite from that of my friend, Lee. We wanted to create a safe, loving, allinclusive event with all the “prom” trimmings. Our first prom, two years ago, was the “Come As You Are” prom. After the horrific suicides of many LGBTQ young people
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we shifted our focus to the younger folks, especially those establishing GSAs in their schools and colleges. The next prom was the “Don’t Ask, Just Dance, Cause Baby You Were Born This Way” prom. Our most recent prom, held in April was the “Born This Way Prom, Friday the 13th, Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are.” Many wonderful people contribute to the proms’ success, including our lovely and sassy drag show celebrities, and our proms are full of love, laughter, dance and joy.
up, I rarely struggled to embrace and be confident with my sexuality. The few times I did, an overwhelming sense of community and genuine support from these families gave me the reassurance I needed to be a confident and proud gay man.” The ervice will be preceded by a 5:45 p.m. gathering, at which complimentary wine and cheese will be served. For further information and driving directions, please visit www.templehabonim.org; or call 2456536; or email office@templehabonim.org.
See you at the PRIDE Parade June 16! interweave@channingchurch.org
Local Synagogue to Hold Gay Pride Sabbath June 8 Service Will Be First Ever in the State Myra B. Shays The Friday evening service on June 8 at Temple Habonim in Barrington will be “Gay Pride Shabbat.” This is not only a first for the 53-year-old Reform congregation but the first for any synagogue in the State of Rhode Island. All are welcome to the 6:15 p.m. service. The guest speaker will be an openly gay young man, Jordan Pious, who was raised in the congregation and is now a management professional based in Atlanta. His parents are still active in the temple. Jordan seemed to give a preview of his planned address when he recently published this message in the Temple Bulletin: “Barrington, and specifically our extended family at Temple Habonim, gives us all reason to reflect on the power of community and how lucky we all are to have a network of fellow Jews who nurture and support every one of us. As a separate and distinct community celebrates LGBT Pride in the month of June, I wanted to share my story of how these two seemingly disparate worlds have influenced the person I am today. “From my family at home and my family at Temple Habonim I found an extraordinary amount of support and encouragement throughout my upbringing. Growing
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Bell Street Chapel Bell Street Chapel, which advertises in Options, is a Unitarian Universalist church, located off Broadway in Providence. We are a growing, vibrant congregation. We uphold, among other principles, the worth and dignity of every human being. Recently, we welcomed our new minister, Reverend C.J. McGregor. Rev. McGregor came to the ministry after having held positions in several non-profit human services organizations and as an advocate for legislation to remedy ailing systems supporting people with disabilities and their families. C.J. lives in Providence with his partner of twenty-two years (now his husband), Richard Keelan, a licensed mental health counselor and education advocate. They have two sons. Besides a profound compassion, Rev. McGregor brings wisdom, humor and wry perspective to the pulpit. Bell Street Chapel is a Welcoming Congregation. This means that the Unitarian Universalist Association has certified that our members have taken intentional steps and have affirmed to become more welcoming of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Our Sunday services are at 10 a.m., and we offer many opportunities for social gatherings and community service. Perhaps you haven’t attended church for a while, or you feel that church certainly hasn’t attended to your values. Bell Street Chapel could be the church for you. www.BellStreetChapel.org q
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This Month in Options History All year we will be featuring some of the treasures to be found in our archives. This month, we couldn’t resist using all photos -- a small sampling of the great snapshots we have of Prides past! Anybody you recognize here? June 1983
– Rhode Island Representative Claudine Schneider signed on as a cosponsor of the AIDS Research Funding Bill, which calls upon the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to direct $40 million to fund AIDS research.
June 1987
– “Meet David Scondras” fundraiser raised nearly $1,600 for the R.I. Alliance for Lesbian & Gay Civil Rights. Funds raised were used to support the political interests of the Rhode Island Gay and Lesbian Community.
June 1989 – This marked the 20th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, a pivotal event in gay history that has become known as the beginning of the Gay Liberation Movement.
June 1994 – Rodney Davis was awarded the Pyramid of Pride Award in recognition of his tireless work for the RI Pride Committee and the RI Alliance for Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights, and for his fight against racism within the gay and lesbian community.
June 1994 – Gay Games IV, held in New
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York that year, hosted the International Country and Western Dance Competition – the first of its kind held anywhere. Members of Boston’s Gays for Patsy dance troupe, the ReneGAYdes, stole the show! (Gays for Patsy is still going strong; find them at gaysforpatsy.org.)
June 1996-
Democrat Michael Pisaturo, was first elected to represent General Assembly District 21 in 1996, and was reelected in 1998 and 2000. He was the first openly gay man to run for RI State House of Representatives. He worked to ensure that anti-gay bills did not make it to the House floor, and served as a strong gay voice in the Rhode Island Legislature.
June 1997- Lise Iwon wins two awards for her legal contributions in the community: the 1996 Pro Bono Publico award presented by Attorney General Janet Reno; and the Professional Leadership Award presented by Women’s Resource Center of South County.
June 2000 – 25th Anniversary of Rhode Island Pride celebrations! q
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Voices ten-month-old baby girl came to live with me. That sure did change my daily routine!
Are You Crazy? Art J. Finocchiaro
The most common question I heard after I decided to become a single foster parent was, “Are you crazy?” Well, to answer that question I would have to say, “Yes, and I am proud of it!” Deciding to care for a child in the foster care system is not an easy decision to make, nor should it be made in haste. It is a promise to dedicate yourself to providing for the health and happiness of a child.
The first thing a single foster parent has to adjust to is having another person, albeit a tiny one, in the house. You will also find that the smaller your roommate is, the more time and energy is required to help them. It did take a while to get into a routine. You find out what you can really accomplish once you realize this child depends on you and only you. You also learn about others in
I found that becoming a foster parent was the next step in my life. I have been teaching elementary school for almost seven years, and in that time I have seen numerous children who did not have the best home life. In every class there is likely that one child you look at and ask yourself what you can do to help them. Children’s Friend came into my life by chance. My two good friends have an adopted son who came to them through this agency. They knew of my plans to foster, and before I knew it I was taking the required training course. Shortly after the course, a
your life: family members and friends. Some people become a good support for you, and others still think you are crazy. Certain people in my life have been wonderful helpers, while others call less frequently.
For me, time seemed to go by fast. Before long, that ten-month-old turned one, and now she’s two. It is fun to watch her play, laugh and learn new things. I hear that Eskimos have hundreds of words for “snow.” Well, a ten-month-old has hundreds of different cries that mean various things. I consider myself fluent in crying. Not all times are joyous. There are sick days when you cannot soothe the child, and start to think you will never sleep again. There are other times when you are sick but you still have to get out of bed and be a parent. It is tough. This is when you rely on your support team to babysit, even for just an hour. It is good to realize it’s perfectly okay and sane to want to scream and throw things. Just remember to ask for help. We all need a break every now and then. So why be a foster parent, especially if you are single? The benefit is helping this child grow into someone who will be better off in the world for knowing you. You will also learn your strengths and weaknesses as an adult. Most of all it is a very satisfying thing to do. I should know! Our house has grown now to include a seven-month-old boy who came to me at birth. q
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Rhode Island Pride OFFICIAL PRIDE MONTH CALENDAR (RDenotes a “Countdown to Pride” event) Friday, May 25 R: A Royal Dance Party at BRAVO, hosted by Mr. Gay RI 2012 Joey Lazzerini, 123 Empire Street, Providence, 9 p.m. Saturday, May 26 R: Memorial Day Block Party at Dark Lady/Alley Cat, Military theme. 17 Snow Street, Providence. To benefit RI Pride, 9 p.m. Thursday, May 31 R: RI Pride Lube Wrestling at HUSH RI, 257 Allens Avenue, Providence, Doors open at 9 p.m. Friday, June 1: Opening Reception for GALLERY Q. 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m.
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Sunday, June 3: Mary Capello and Peter Covino - “Voluptuous Spirits: A Reading in Dialogue.” Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 3 p.m.
Friday, June 1: R: Pride Countdown at Sofrito Fridays at LOT 401, 44 Hospital Street, Providence, 10 p.m. Saturday, June 2: Parade Orientation Meeting. RI Pride Center, 1005 Main Street, Unit 1105, Pawtucket, 10 a.m.
Monday, June 4: Birthday Hi-Tini in Honor of Miss Kitty Litter & Jeanne D’Agostino. Come celebrate the most fabulous Hi-Tini at the Providence Biltmore on the Garden Terrace. $30.00 to benLike It • Share It • Live It efit AIDS Care Ocean 2012 RHODE ISLAND LGBT PRIDE CELEBRATION State, 5:30-8 p.m.
Saturday, June 2: Kickball Tourney. The Met Center, 325 Public Street, Providence. Email smiller25@hotmail.com for more info. 1 p.m.
Sunday, June 3: The Imperial Court of Rhode Island at Providence presents Investitures I. The Dark Lady, 17 Snow St., Providence. Hosted by The Black Bear Emperor, Patriarch of the Hoochies, Regent Emperor XX Michael and The Georgia Peach Jeweled Songbird of Leather and Lace, Absolute High Priestess and Guardian of the Divine Secrets Empress XX Savannah Devereaux. Donation: $10.00, proceeds to benefit Rhode Island Pride. 6-9 p.m. Sunday, June 3 R Pride King and Queen
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Ocean State at the Mirabar, 35 Richmond Street, Providence. Doors open at 9 p.m. This inclusive pageant is open to all members of the LGBTQ community. You tell us what title you want to run for and bring it on! Contestants must compete in pride-themed costumes and talent performance. There will be both a king and queen crowned at this event. Pre-register by email at Info@PrideRI.com. The winners will receive a performance spot on the main stage at RI PrideFest, a crown, a sash and bragging rights! 9 p.m.
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Monday, June 4: Love in the Age of Grindr: Gay Male Sexuality in the 21st Century, Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 5: Parade Orientation Meeting, RI Pride Center, 1005 Main Street, Unit 1105, Pawtucket, 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 5: “Queens of Heart” -- Documentary & Panel on Drag in our communities, Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 6: RI Pride Volunteer Orientation/General Meeting, RI Pride Center, 1005 Main Street, Unit 1105, Pawtucket, 7 p.m.
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Wednesday, June 6: Bi the Way: A panel on Bisexuality, Coming Out, Staying Out and Speaking Out. Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. Thursday, June 7: GENDERSPEAK -- A spoken word event on all things gender. Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. Thursday, June 7, Sat. 9, & Sun. 10: Providence Gay Mens Chorus presents “Out on the Bay.” Beneficent Church. 300 Weybosset Street, Providence. For tickets and info go to provgmc.org. Tickets $20, show at 7 p.m. Friday, June 8: The Flickers: GLBT Film Festival Preview is a celebration of films made by, for and about the GLBT community. This year’s festival will feature cuttingedge short films as well as previews of new feature films. Tickets are $10 per person, and for every ticket sold, Flickers will donate $1 to Marriage Equality RI. For more information, visit www.film-festival.org. Friday, June 8: Rainbow Flag Raising Ceremony with Mayor Angel Taveras. City Hall, Kennedy Plaza, Providence, 4:30 p.m. Flag raising reception hosted by The Melting Pot, 199 Providence Place, Providence, immediately following ceremony. Friday, June 8: R: Luna’s Ladies Night presents: Lesbian Speed Dating. Sarah Rich & Invincible We LIVE at 10 p.m., DJ Nicool til 1 a.m. Luna’s @ The Roots, 276 Westminster St., Providence, $6, 21+, www.lunaspvd. com, 8 p.m. Saturday, June 9 R: Countdown Party at the Providence Eagle/Union, 198 Union St., Providence, 10 p.m. Saturday, June 9: RI Pride goes to Boston Pride!! RI Pride will once again be participating in Boston Pride with a themed float and contingent promoting RI Pride, its PrideFest and activities. www.bostonpride. org Sunday, June 10: Co-ed Swim and Underwear Fashion Show, poolside at the Regency Plaza, Washington Street, Providence, 7 p.m.
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Show After Party at the Stable, 125 Washington Street, Providence, 9 p.m. Monday, June 11: Digitally Queer: A Primer. Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 12: “World’s Worst Place to Be Gay” Documentary & discussion on pride in hostile environments. Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 12: RI Pride Volunteer Orientation/General Meeting. RI Pride Center, 1005 Main Street, Unit 1105, Pawtucket, 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 13: Interfaith Pride Celebration - Through Music and Prayer. Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Street, Providence, 7 p.m. Thursday, June 14: RI Pride “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” Bingo. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Avenue, Cranston. This special bingo is a benefit for RI Pride and is sponsored by AIDS Care Ocean State. Cash and prizes all night; hosted by Kitty Litter. Doors open at 6, Bingo starts at 7 p.m. sharp. SATURDAY, JUNE 16: RI PrideFest & 36th Anniversary Celebration – 12:00 8:00 p.m.– South Water Street, Providence (along Providence River) – New England’s second largest pride celebration features the largest GLBT Marketplace and Business Exposition in the region with a mix of national and local entertainment. The RI PrideFest also features the Kidz Pride Zone, an area specifically created for children, kids and families. The diverse offerings at the PrideFest draw a mix of individuals and families
of all ages. RI PrideFest’s Main-stage Entertainment - June 16 – 12:00 - 8:00 p.m. RI Pride is pleased to announce the headliner of PrideFest 2012, a top finalist from The Voice, American Idol, a Grammy nominee and a Broadway star, Ms. FRENCHIE DAVIS! Log on to www.prideri.com for more information about the entertainers! RI Pride’s Illuminated Night-Time Pride Parade – June 16 – 8:30 p.m. (sundown) – begins at Dorrance and Fountain Streets. New England’s only night pride parade is one of the highlights of RI PrideFest -- a dazzling display of floats, performing artists, marching groups and spectators winding through downtown Providence and culminating at the RI Pride Reviewing Stand at the Providence Performing Arts Center on Weybosset Street. Logon to www.prideri. com for more information or to download a parade application. Sunday, June 17: RI Pride Hangover Drag Brunch – Murphy’s Bar and Grill, 100 Fountain Street, Providence – A delicious array of foods and cocktails, guaranteed to knock out that Pride hangover, with Jacqueline DiMera, Miss Gay RI 2012 Jealousy Jonz and special guests. 25% of food proceeds will benefit RI Pride. Call for reservations. 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. seatings.
Providing resources to the LGBT Community of Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts for over 30 years.
Sunday, June 17: Mechanical Bull and Silly String Party: The Official closing party for RI Pride, hosted by Miss Kitty Litter and BB Hayes at Colosseum, 180 Pine Street, Providence. A benefit for RI Pride. Monday, June 18: Crashing the Parties: LGBTQ participation in party politics with the RI Democratic LGBTQ caucus and the Log Cabin Republicans. Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 19: Outrage – A documentary & panel on outing and conservative politicians, Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. Thursday, June 21: Meet the Candidates Night. Candidates for General Assembly speaking with and learning from the LGBTQ community. Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence. Sponsored by MERI PAC, 7 p.m. Monday, June 25: What’s So Queer About Andy Warhol? A discussion. Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 26: “Black, White and Gray” - Documentary about Robert Mapplethorpe, Sam Wagstaff and Patti Smith, Gallery Q, 460 Harris Avenue, Providence, 7 p.m. For the complete and up-to-date calendar listing, please visit www.PrideRI.com and click on the CALENDAR. q
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Marriage Equality Rhode Island Dawn Euer
The past month has seen a considerable amount of progress toward marriage equality on the state and national level. On May 9, President Obama announced his support for marriage equality. Immediately after President Obama’s announcement, Marriage Equality Rhode Island (MERI) issued a press release encouraging Senator Jack Reed to support marriage equality and co-sponsor the Respect for Marriage Act. After months of campaigning and advocacy campaigns, Senator Reed also endorsed marriage equality, no doubt encouraged by the lead of the President. Rhode Island now has our entire federal delegation in support of marriage equality, thanks to the hard work of supporters like you!
For the past six months, MERI and Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) have been working with the Governor and his staff to issue this executive order, stating that recognizing the valid marriages of samesex couples furthers Rhode Island public policy. This is also consistent with the opin-
This executive order sends a strong message to married Rhode Islanders that they can and should rely on their marriage to protect them and their families including in the following ways: • Being able to obtain coverage from insurance companies who are regulated by the state, including health, life and car insurance, on the same terms as different-sex spouses.
Less than a week later, history was made in Rhode Island when Governor Chafee signed an executive order on May 14, directing state agencies to recognize the marriages of the state’s same-sex couples. Chafee is the first governor in the country to sign an executive order recognizing out-ofstate marriages.
• Both a birth mother and her spouse will be recognized as parents on birth certificate of any child born into marriage. • State employees with same-sex spouses will be entitled to benefits including health coverage and pension benefits.
Although long-standing Rhode Island law does recognize and respect out-of-state marriages, the fact is that far too many samesex couples have encountered problems with the state refusing to recognize the validity of their marriage, causing harm, confusion, unnecessary expense and heartache. Deb Tevyaw had to fight to have her wife Pat Baker’s death certificate amended to include Deb as the surviving spouse. Martha and Patricia Holt-Castle had to fight to have both of their names included on their son’s birth certificate. This executive order will go a long way toward eliminating those types of problems, and makes it clear that there is no longer a gay exemption for the kinds of protections and responsibilities that marriage provides.
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offices to recognize the lawful marriages of same-sex couples as valid for any purpose arising in the execution of their duties, and to review their operations and take all actions necessary to extend respect to these marriages to the fullest extent permitted by law.
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While this moves us closer to full marriage equality, nothing less is sufficient, and we will keep fighting. The General Assembly should take note of the courageous leadership demonstrated by President Obama and Governor Chafee and move immediately to pass full marriage equality. Even though this order makes clear that all married couples should be treated the same, all Rhode Islanders should be able to marry in their home state amongst their family, friends and community regardless of their sexual orientation.
ion issued by then Attorney General Lynch in 2007. Governor Chafee’s executive order directs all state departments, agencies and
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MERI is committed to passing full marriage equality in Rhode Island. We will not give up. We will never go away. We will not settle for “less than.” Join us. info@marriageequalityri.org (401)941-2727. q
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Old Lesbians Mobilize in a National Gathering Old Lesbians Organizing for Change (OLOC) will host its 8th National Gathering at the Hilton Boston/Woburn on July 19-22, for lesbians 60 and older. The evening programs will be open to women of any age, as will the Sunday afternoon program.
Next is the presentation of the Del Martin Old Lesbian Pride Award to this year’s honoree, followed by a screening of the documentary film Celebrating the Life of Del Martin. Judy Ross will then lead us in a singalong with old favorite popular and show tunes.
schedule.
The weekend of building community kicks off Thursday with a free, daylong intensive session to learn how to challenge racism and classism, and to help OLOC develop strategies for a more just world and a more widely representative OLOC. Thursday night, Cambridge Vice-Mayor Denise Simmons will officially open the Gathering with a welcome address.
Over the next three days, keynoters Vera Martin, Barbara Smith and Charlotte Bunch will introduce different aspects of this year’s theme, “Bridges to Justice: 21st Century Activism,” while workshops and caucuses will reflect that theme. Silent and live auctions, vendors, a special memorial service, and a comfy, clubby hospitality lounge will supplement our daytime
The Hilton Boston/Woburn is located at 2 Forbes Road, Woburn, MA. Call 781932-0903 or visit www.bostonwoburn.hilton.com for location details.
A talent show and dance on Friday night, a concert by the incomparable Ferron on Saturday, and the highly acclaimed “Lesbian Tent Revival” with Sister Carolyn Gage on Sunday afternoon will be open to women of all ages.
Who is OLOC? We are a national network committed to working against ageism, racism, classism, sexism and all oppressions that affect old lesbians. For more information, visit www.oloc.org or contact us at info@oloc.org, 888-706-7506, or PO Box 5853, Athens, OH 45701. Financial assistance available. q
For the past 29 years We’ve been handing our Clients The same old Line …
“SOLD” Barrington • CumBerland • east greenwiCh • narragansett • ProvidenCe • reloCation 401.245.9600 • 401.333.9333 •
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• 401.783.2474 • 401.274.6740 • 800.886.1775
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Services and Advocacy for LGBT Elders Sally Ann Hay
Here to Stay
Hoping to See You Soon
As reported in the last issue of Options, SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders/Rhode Island) is appealing the recent ruling from SAGE/USA that we cannot claim the entire state in our name (they recommend we call ourselves SAGE/ Providence.) Thanks to the wonderful response and support we received from the community, our appeal included a map of RI showing where our supporters live, a list of factoids that reflects RI’s small size and its quirky nature, and a number of letters of support from organizations and individuals. We are hoping we can convince SAGE/ USA to change their mind. If not, we will drop our bid to affiliate and change our name altogether. We will keep you posted!
As so often happens in our personal lives, our need to be “taking care of business” during this struggle with SAGE/USA has meant we had to let our social life slip a bit – but we’re working on correcting that even as Options goes to press! Knowing that summertime is a time when people are busy with vacations and cookouts, we are planning a series of “Gentle Meet-Ups.” Meetups will be planned in connection with community activities; we’ll let you know where and when we’ll gather ahead of time so that we can enjoy the event together. Currently, we’re looking at meeting up for a Providence Gay Men’s Chorus performance in June, a free concert in July or August, and maybe even for ice cream somewhere along
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the way. We are planning a general membership meeting in September -- we’ll share the details later in the summer. Be sure we have your email address (you can send it to us at sageriinfo@ gmail.com), and feel free to send us some of your suggestions as well.
Proud and Healthy at Pride June 16th! We are looking forward to seeing all of our friends and supporters at the PrideFest – stop by to say hello, get some information, join SAGE/RI and have your blood pressure checked! Look for SAGE/RI on Facebook (SAGE/Rhode Island) or contact us at sageriinfo@gmail.com. q
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Youth Pride, Inc. Kerri Kanelos
Pride 2012 Happy Pride! Please visit Youth Pride Inc. at our PrideFest booth, where we will have lots of resource information and a special presentation by OMG -- our HIV-prevention program. Youth ages 13-23 are welcome to march with us in the parade. Please meet us at the staging area if you want to join us. Finally, we are again holding our sober Pride dance. Please check our website or Facebook page for details about location and time.
Twive & Receive
PORTRAITS
To help generate donations, and possibly win thousands of additional dollars in awards, on June 14th, Youth Pride, Inc. will be competing in Twive and Receive (www.TwiveAndReceive.org), a massive, one-day Twitter-based fundraising contest to support nonprofits in different cities across the country. Twive and Receive was created by Razoo, a social fundraising platform for individuals and nonprofits. In cities across the country, bloggers and others who influence social media have each picked one local cause to support. These champions are now rallying their followers on Twitter, Facebook, and their blogs to donate as much as possible to their chosen local charity on June 14th in the hopes of securing an additional cash award. On June 14th at Midnight Pacific Time (3:00 a.m. Eastern Time), the fundraising competition begins. The three charities that raise the most will get a share of the $30,000 prize money. 1st place: $15,000 2nd place: $10,000 3rd place: $5,000
JDHSPHOTOS.COM 401.624.6698 JDHSPhotos@verizon.net
JDHS  Photos options
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Here’s how you can help: On June 14th, go to www.TwiveAndReceive.org and donate to Youth Pride Inc. Spread the word to your friends and family on Twitter, Facebook, email and any other network you use!
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AIDS Community Watch The 2nd Annual King of Queens Was a Smash! Kalene Brennan Over 275 people came to the Colosseum in Providence on May 6 to see the 2nd Annual King of Queens fundraiser contest for AIDS Care Ocean State (ACOS). Last year’s winner of King of Queens, Donatella Toomucha, opened the show with a performance of Annie Lenox’s “I Need a Man,” the song that won her the crown last year. Nine local celebrities performed this year, and it was an incredible show. Much like last year, each contestant was given a Drag Mother to mentor her, helping her to choose her look, song and performance style for the show. There was glitter, glamour and fantastic stage presence. The audience chose the coveted Fan Favorite, based on tips the contestant receives during her performance. This year’s fan favorite was Brad Pelletier, performing as Eva L’More. It was a tight race to the top; she won by only $3.00 over her competitors! It was a much-deserved win, and we congratulate her on a fantastic performance. A special panel of judges was selected to score the contestants on appearance, song choice, performance and crowd applause. After much deliberation, and only one point separating the winner from the other performers, the esteemed judges crowned Stephen Schuler, performing as Wilma Dickfit, as the King of Queens. She won the judges over by performing The Weather Girls classic, “It’s Raining Men.” After her crowning, Ms. Dickfit did an encore of her winning routine and strutted across the stage with her sash and crown. ACOS thanks all of our wonderful per-
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formers who put their hearts into this fundraiser, as well as all the Drag Mothers who donated their time and expertise to make our newest drag queens gorgeous. We raised over $6,500 for the programs and services of ACOS. In addition, we thank Alysha Brock for all the time and energy she invested into
importantly, the dunk tank. We’ll be scouring the crowd for victims who will take the plunge for charity. This is an 18+ event. Last year, hundreds of people came out to support ACOS and danced all night even in the pouring rain, and Rhode Island’s finest drag stars -- Miss Kitty Litter, LaDiva Jonz, BB Hayes, Haley Star, and Jacqueline DiMera -- will be putting on a fabulous show. Tickets are $12 at the door.
Show Your PRIDE, Rhode Island!
this event; Tara Bonag, Carol Mann, Brittany Leigh Gomes and Alexander Correia for generously volunteering their time to work the event; Keith Dube, Kalene Brennan and Stephen Hartley from ACOS for setting up and ensuring the evening ran smoothly; DJ Cisco for spinning the tunes all night long; the judges for providing their expertise; and all of the VIP guests. Finally, we need to thank Anthony and Darren from the Colosseum for going above and beyond to make the evening fantastic for everyone.
2nd Annual Carnival Block Party The carnival is coming back! ACOS and Mirabar are throwing a Carnival Block Party on Saturday, July 21, from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. We’ll have carnival games, food, and most
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June kicks off the start of summer and the celebration of Gay Pride in Rhode Island. ACOS is busy making safe-sex kits to hand out to the thousands of people who come out in celebration of PrideFest. We encourage everyone to visit our booth on June 16 for free screenings for HIV and hepatitis C, and safe-sex kits. If you can’t make it to our Pride booth, please call our Prevention Office at 781-0665 to schedule an appointment. Our Prevention Center is LGBT-friendly and confidential, and you get same-day results. ACOS congratulates RI Pride on celebrating their 36th anniversary! For more information about ACOS please visit our website at www.aidscareos.org. And “like” us on Facebook to stay updated on all our events. See you at Pride!
New England Alliance for Gay/Bisexual Men’s Health Launches Regional Advocacy and Action Tom Bertrand Twenty-two community-based organizations, from all six New England States,
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Please Take the Time to Thank our ADVERTISERS!
Take the three fellows below, for example. Bill, Niko and Paul have been with Options for a looong time. That is a lot of support for this community resource. (They must be pretty happy with the response they get, too.)
So the next time you see Bill, Niko, Paul or anyone who supports Options with their advertising dollars, please let them know they are appreciated.
including seven from Rhode Island, have banded together to create the New England Alliance for Gay/Bisexual Men’s Health. The mission of the Alliance is to work together to improve the health of gay and bisexual men through information sharing, peer-to-peer technical assistance, cross-state collaboration, regional trainings/conferences, monitoring disease rates, strengthening partnerships with government agencies, raising awareness and conducting advocacy at the local, state, regional and national level. Such a regional Alliance is the first of its kind in the United States. A variety of challenges related to HIV and sexually transmitted disease (STD) prevention among gay/bisexual men in New England, as well as alarming disease trends in recent years, were the catalysts that brought these organizations together. While each New England state has experienced its own unique trends in disease rates in the New England region over the past decade, gay and bisexual men represent a growing percentage of new HIV infections and infectious syphilis cases. In Rhode Island, the number of new HIV infections jumped from just 34 cases in 2000 to 54 cases in 2010. During this same time, the number of new HIV infections for other groups (i.e., women, heterosexual men, and injecting drug users) dropped from 95 to 52 cases. To get your agency involved in the Alliance, please contact Tom Bertrand at Thomas@aidsprojectri.org
Plumbing by Paul “We do it right in your home.”
New . Old . Big . Small . We Do It . Right .
225-0561 Licensed, Insured, Guaranteed, Honest, Clean options
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Current Rhode Island members of the New England Alliance for Gay/Bisexual Men’s Health: • AIDS Project Rhode Island, Providence • AIDS Care Ocean State, Providence • Brown University AIDS Program, Providence • Brown University Program in Public Health • The Miriam Hospital, Center for AIDS Research, Providence • Thundermist Health Center, Woonsocket JSI Research & Training Institute, Inc., Providence. q
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Resources Help us help you: If you come across a resource listing that is incorrect or needs updating, let us know. Drop us a line at mshays@verizon.net. Please 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.
Chiropractic Services: Free for unemployed HIV+ patients, Ronald P. Marsh, DC., 11 King Charles Dr., Portsmouth, RI; 683-1941.
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
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.
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.
Alcohol/Drug Helpline. RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, 24-hr., (866) 252-3784.
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.
Gay Al-Anon: Tues. 7:30 p.m., Congregational Church, 71 Park Place, Pawtucket, 726-2800.
FACTS (Family AIDS Center for Treatment & Support): See AIDS Care Ocean State.
AIDS/Health Resources
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.
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.
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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. House of Compassion: HIV/AIDS housing. 2510 Mendon Rd., Cumberland. 658-3992.
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.
Jewish AIDS Task Force: Programs for HIV/AIDS and Jewish communities. 421-4111, ext. 172.
Be There and Be Queer!
LGBT Caregiver Online Support Group for LGBTs caring for someone with chronic health problems, visit www.caregiver.org and click on groups.
The Alley Cat: 17 Snow St. Prov. 273-0951 Downtown neighborhood bar. Sun.-Thur. 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 3 p.m.-2 a.m. http://thealleycat.net.
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. Matthew 25: HIV/AIDS Ministry: Groceries, personal care products, counseling, referrals. Network with other ASOs. Mon., Wed., Thurs. 9:30-12, 1-2:30; Tues. 1-3. 781-9451. Sister Clara or Patty. 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
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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. Deville’s: 345 South Water St. Prov. Lesbian, gay, straight, it’s all good. 383-8883, www.devillescafecom. Girl Spot in Providence on Sat. nights.
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girlspot.com Mirabar: 35 Richmond St., Prov. 331-6761 www.mirabar.com. Dancing, third floor lounge, ages 18+ Sun-Thurs 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri, Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m. 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: 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
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.
calvaryepiscopal.us.email, calvary125@aol.com. 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. 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
The Next Thing (TNT): political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. Contact the Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062.
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.
RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: hate crime awareness training program www.hatecrimeri.org.
Emmanuel Episcopal Church. 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland RI 02864. 658-1506.
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.
RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit, 180 Westminster St., 3rd floor Prov. Phone: 222-2662. Fax: 222-2616, TDD: 222-2664.
First Congregational Church in Bristol, an Open and Affirming Congregation. 281 High Street, Bristol. Pastor Dan Randall, 253-7288.
Information/Education
RI Patient Advocacy Coalition: legalization of marijuana use for medical purposes. www.RIpatients.org.
Touch Providence: All-Male Review 257 Allens Ave., Prov. All nude male strippers, bar, 18+ www.touchprovidence.com. Sun, Wed, Thurs 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri, Sat. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. 732-7740. 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.
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 Helpline of RI: Info and referrals to physicians, therapists, businesses, agencies, social support groups, links to call-in helplines and more. www.glbthelpline.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
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.
Religious Resources
Grace Episcopal Church in Providence, 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225.
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
Political & Legal Groups
Bell Street Chapel (Unitarian Universalist), A Welcoming congregation: Rev. C.J. McGregor, Minister. 5 Bell St., Prov., 273-5678, www.bellstreetchapel.org.
BIGFLAG (Boston Immigration Group for Lesbians And Gays): social/support for LGBTs affected by immigration discrimination. (617) 499-9433.
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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
Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists, email: mail@WABaptists.org.
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.
First Unitarian Church. 71 8th St., New Bedford, MA 02740. (508) 994-9686.
Straight But Not Narrow Coalition: Straight support for LGBT, PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 847-7637.
Youth Pride, Inc. HIV Peer Educators: HIV education discussion, games, thought-provoking activities. Led by trained youth educators. Free. 421-5626.
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 831-7171; 128 Dorrance St., Suite 220, Prov., RI 02903.
First Unitarian Church. A Welcoming congregation at One Benevolent St., Prov.; 421-7970. Services Sunday 10:30 a.m.
Barrington Congregational Church (UCC) “the white church”, 461 Old County Rd., Barrington. 246-0111.www.bccucc.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.
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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. 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.
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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.
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.
Pilgrim Lutheran Church, an inclusive congregation: 1817 Warwick Ave., Warwick. 739-2937
Westminster Unitarian/Universalist Church: 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich, RI 02818. 884-5933
Pilgrim United Church of Christ. Open and affirming. 635 Purchase St., New Bedford. 508-9975684.
Social Organizations
Riverside Church (U.C.C.) 15 Oak Ave., Riverside, RI. 433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 35 Lower College Rd., Kingston. 783-2153 www.staugustineURI.com. St. Francis City Ministry at the Church of St. Mary, 535 Broadway, Prov. 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 12:30 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. Temple Habonim (Reform): Rabbi Andrew Klein, 165 New Meadow Rd., Barrington, 245-6536. www.templehabonim.org. Temple Sinai: A Welcoming Reform Temple. Rabbi
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Atheists/Agnostics: RI Atheist Society – “Working to keep Church and State separate” Welcoming all. Meets 3rd Monday of the month at an area restaurant for lively discussions among likeminded people. For info: www.RIatheist.net Bisexual Resource Center: 29 Stanhope St., Boston, (617) 424-9595 or www.biresource.net. Biversity Boston: Mixed-sex social network. Bimonthly brunches and other social events. http://biversity.org. Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches, coming out groups, and quarterly newsletter “Bi Woman.” Subscribe at www.biwomenboston.org. Bears Ocean State (BOS): Informal e-group for gay & bisexual bear-identified and -affiliated men for friendly companionship. All welcome. http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/bearsoceanstate or bearsoceanstate-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. Age-restricted.
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.
Bridgewater State College GLBT Alumni Group: email Kenneth Hayes (‘91) khayesbbc@msn.com or visit www.bridgew.edu.
RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children. Contact Melanie, 464-2288 or saphicangel120@yahoo.com
Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGYA): (508) 778-7744.
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
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. Men’s Card Group: New group in formation. E-mail johninprov@gmail.com or call John 261-9715.
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RI Prime Timers. Social and networking group for gay and bisexual men 40 and older. Meets 2nd Sundays. www.riprimetimers.org 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.
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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. pridesportsboston.com 617-937-5858 Gay sports in Boston and beyond: www.gaysports. com. Email info@gaysports.com.
Thurs evenings. Christina, 996-5425. www.rondeauskickboxing.com
Brown University Staff LGBTQ Assn.: call LGBT Resource Center: 863-3062
OUTDOORS: Chiltern Mountain Club: outdoor recreation for men & women; Call 617-869-7958 for newsletter; PO Box 390928, Cambridge, MA 02139; www.chiltern.org.
Brown University LGBTQ Resource Center: 8633062, e-mail lgbtq@brown.edu
ROWING: Boston Bay Blades www.bayblades.org/ boston (617) 937-5858 Ext. 11.
CCRI Triangle Alliance: Informal student GLBTQ group, 400 East Ave., Warwick. Call 825-1125 or www.ccri.cc.ri.edu/triangle.
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. 3236642 or rcsl_commish@cox.net. Visit www. providencesoftball.org Beantown Softball League: (617) 937-5858, Ext. 1, www.beantownsoftball.com.
BASKETBALL: Boston Gay Basketball League: www.bgbl.com or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 2.
SOFTBALL:
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.
Renaissance City Softball League. New players and boosters always welcome. Visit www.providencesoftball.org or call 323-6642.
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.
SQUASH: Boston Boasts www.bostonboasts.com SWIMMING: LANES (Liquid Assets New England Swim-Team); www.swim-lanes.org; (617) 9375858 Ext. 9.
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
WRESTLING: East Coast Wrestling Club www. eastcoastwrestlingclub.org, email ecwc@juno. com, (401) 467-6737 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 6
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.
Students & Youth
Youth Pride Inc./The Way Out: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13-23.Drop-in center at 743 Westminster St., Prov. 02903; M-F noon-8 p.m. The Way Out support group meets Thurs., 5 p.m. The Gender Spectrum support group meets Tues. 5:30 p.m. Call 421-5626 or email kerri@youthpride-ri.org Web: www.youthpride-ri.org.
ICE HOCKEY for WOMEN: email gwick@kersur.net.
Brown University Grad Student - Med Student - Staff LGBTQ Association: queer-med-gradmembers@queer.brown.edu
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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
The Next Thing (TNT): Political & support group for queer people of color at Brown Univ. Call Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062.
Brown University Queer Alliance: umbrella org. for groups. 863-3062. www.queer.brown.edu
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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.
YOGA for gays & lesbians. 9 a.m. Saturdays. All welcome. www/meetup.com/Gay-Meditation/. Fee applies.
HOCKEY: Boston Pride Hockey www.bostonpridehockey.org (617) 937-5858 Ext. 7.
KICKBOXING or BOXING for WOMEN: Tues &
Fitchburg State College GLBT Alliance: social support group for students. One-in-Ten and Friends, 978-665-3164, sfranzemn@fsc.edu.
VOLLEYBALL: Cambridge Boston Volleyball Assoc. www.GayVolleyball.net, (617) 633-2180
GOLF: Golf4All www.golf4all.net (617) 450-8682.
Gail Wickstrom
COLAGE. Support for children of LGBT Parents: rhodeisland@colage.org; http://www.myspace. com/colage_ri. 331-9844.
The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, aroundthe-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks. 866-4-U-TREVOR; thetrevorproject.org.
TENNIS: TENNIS-4-All: www.tennis4all.org.
Bristol Community College Gay/Straight Alliance (BCC/GSA); Steven Camara, Advisor (508)6782811 Ext. 2391, BCC-H202, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA 02720.
RI/S.E. MA Flag Football: Sats. 10 a.m. All levels and genders. mbs1994ever@yahoo.com
Bryant Pride: Bryant College Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual Student Association. 232-6389.
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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.
thersboston.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.
Foster parents needed, for newborn to age six. www. childrensfriendri.org. 276-4318
Gay Men’s Life Coaching Group: Empower Your Life! 4th Friday of the month, 7 -- 8 p.m., 877 Broadway, E. Providence. 944-0723. $20 per session.
Foster parents sought: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing families. Gregary Wright, Family Service of RI, 331-1350 Ext. 3305
Gay Men’s Meditation Group: Relax and connect! Second Wed. of the month, 7 -- 8 p.m. at Positive New Beginnings, 877 Broadway, E. Providence. Call Tim at 944-0723. $10/session.
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
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.
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 justice, education & advocacy. Meets 3rd Saturday of the month, Beneficent Church (3319844), 300 Weybosset St., Providence. Jamie Pease, rhodeisland@colage.org. www.myspace. com/colage_ri 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 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. 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.gayfa-
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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.
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.
8:30 p.m. Confidential. Drug/alcohol-free. Email mantalksouthcoast@yahoo.com Nat. Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues, info@nlgja.org. PFLAG: Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays: Greater Providence: First Wednesdays, 6:45p.m. at Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571; www.pflagprovidence.org; pflagprovidence@verizon.net; South/Central RI: www.pflagscri.org, 219-0265, epbonetti@gmail. com; 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.
LBT Women’s Mediation: De-stress and express yourself! 4th Wednesday of the month, 7 -- 8 p.m., Positive New Beginnings, 877 Broadway, E. Providence. $10 per session. 944-0723.
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.
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 –
Women’s Resource Center of Newport and Bristol Counties, offering services to victims of domestic violence. 846-5263. q
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Deville’s is back. And it’s even better than you remember.
g n i n e op t s r i f e jun Deville’s welcomes everyone to enjoy our new riverfront bar Great drinks from the bar and tasty bites from the kitchen Come mingle in a comfortable atmosphere Meet old friends • Meet new friends www.devillescafe.com • on facebook devilles online
345 South Water St., Providence • 401-383-8883 Serving the gay & Lesbian community since 1989
Check us out during the Pride Festival June 16 -- we’re right down the street! options
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