options June / July 2019
RI PRIDEFEST! STONEWALL AT 50 FIXING PARENTAGE LAWS
1 Rhode Island and Southern New England's LGBTQ Communitywww.optionsri.org Magazine Since 1982
IN THIS ISSUE: 12 14 18 20
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From the Editor
6 From the Board President 6 Advertisers 8 Calendar 10
News Briefs
12
RI PrideFest: Live Your Truth
14
Stand Up & Cheer for Stonewall
18
Modernizing RI Parentage Law
20
Out on the Town
22
News from TGI Network
24
New Safe Zones for LGBTQ Healthcare
26
Report from SAGE/RI
28
YPI: Youth at PrideFest
30
Laverne Cox at RIC: Ain’t I a Woman?
32 Resources
30
39 Felicitations 39
Transosaurus Rex
For our free online edition or to subscribe for home delivery ($35/year suggested donation) visit optionsri.org, email subscriptions@optionsri.org, or write to: Options Magazine, PO Box 6406, Providence, RI 02940. (c) OPTIONS 2019 Options is published bimonthly. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the volunteers or staff. Listings are provided as a resource and do not imply endorsement. Submissions to Options must include a phone number or email address. Names may be withheld on request. Submissions, ads, calendar, or resource listings for the August/September 2019 issue must be delivered by July 12.
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CARE | COMMITMENT | COMMUNITY
HAPPY PRIDE! find the APRI testing van at PrideFest on Saturday June, 15th!
We proudly offer • free, rapid HIV, syphilis & hep c testing • free condoms, PrEP referrals, and more • supportive services for people living with HIV/AIDS
Take Charge, Get Tested!
AIDSPROJECTRI.ORG AIDSPROJEC TRI HELLO_ APRI AIDSPROJEC TRI
From the Editor-in-Chief
options
Rhode Island’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community news source since 1982.
Dear Reader,
June/July 2019
Rhode Islanders are immensely fortunate to have an extraordinarily vibrant LGBTQ community, and within it many subcommunities strengthened by dedicated groups and nonprofits. In solidarity with their missions, Options Magazine prides itself on gathering and sharing their stories in each issue, so readers can learn of their offerings and needs, progress and setbacks, and find how to engage them. While Options is the only place so many local LGBTQ groups come together in print (e.g. Youth Pride Inc., p. 28; SAGE/RI, p. 26; TGI Network, p. 22), Rhode Island Pride brings these subcommunities together in the flesh at the community’s pinnacle celebration on June 15: RI PrideFest (p. 12). Each year, RI PrideFest grows in attendance as LGBTQ people, and those who love and increasingly accept them, gather in downtown Providence to celebrate their pride in queer culture and identity. You’ll find that the events leading up to Pride are especially impressive this year (p. 8). In addition to the traditional flag raising, variety show, bingo, volunteer orientations, concert, and Parade, the Pride committee has held trans and POC-specific listening sessions, yoga classes, and workshops on being out at work and decorating your parade contingent. There are even four month-long art exhibits. Congratulations to the Pride committee on what is shaping up to be a particularly fantastic Pride season. The theme of the 44th annual RI Pride celebration – “Live Your Truth” – not only encourages us to be authentic, but comes at a time when the value of truth is daily undermined by a president who, according to The Washington Post Fact Checker, has made well over 10,000 false or misleading claims while in office. When we share the truth of who we are, we’re saying that it’s ok that we’re different, it’s ok to admit flaws, and, in fact, it’s imperative. 2019 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall riots in New York City, and I’m thrilled to welcome back writer Bradford Greer to reminisce about the events that sparked the modern gay rights movement (p. 14). RI PrideFest will honor this historic civil rights moment at its Pride Rally on the main stage of PrideFest at 3pm. And finally, we’d like to thank Options Intern Charlotte Abotsi, who last semester wrote, edited, researched, and explored online possibilities for our magazine. Charlotte graduated from Rhode Island College in May. That’s certainly something to be proud of! Intern Charlotte Abotsi
In solidarity,
Jen Stevens We want to hear from you. Send letters to editor@optionsri.org.
TC Rogers, Options RCSL Team Members, and Jen Stevens at Options' annual meeting.
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 2
Editor-in-Chief Jen Stevens jen@optionsri.org Resources Editor Myra Shays resources@optionsri.org Copy Editors Rex LeBeau, Joseph Morra, Abi Nilsson, Carson Pavao, Myra Shays Graphic Design Theresa “Reese” Barzyk www.tibcreativestudio.com Intern Charlotte Abotsi Contributors Felicia Nimue Ackerman, Kwana Adams (online), Guillaume Bagal,Tiffani Carcieri, Cathy Gorman, Bradford Greer, Ethan Huckel, Amanda Johnston, Joe Lazzerini, Rex LeBeau, Abi Nilsson, Lauren Nocera, TC Rogers, Myra Shays, Jen Stevens Photographers Steve Ahlquist, Jen Bonin, Britt Donahue, Jack Hartwein-Sanchez Advertising Emma Montague advertising@optionsri.org
Contact Us info@optionsri.org PO Box 6406 Providence, RI 02940 401-217-3939 www.optionsri.org Cover: RI Pride Parade 2018. Photo by Jen Bonin
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FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT Board of Directors
Dear Readers,
Executive Committee
Happy summer and happy Pride! I am so proud of the work that Options does to serve our vibrant LGBTQ+ community. I am proud of our dedicated editor-in-chief, Jen Stevens, and humbled to work with her. I am proud of the extremely committed volunteers, especially those who have been volunteering issue after issue, like Myra Shays, Rex LeBeau, Carson Pavao, and Jen Bonin. I am proud of the fabulous design work by Theresa “Reese” Barzyk; it WOWS me each issue. I am proud of our advertising manager, Emma Montague, who is pounding the digital pavement for ads each month. I am proud of the work that the board of directors continues to do to help Options remain a relevant resource and secure a future in your physical and digital mailbox. The Options team held our annual meeting on April 30 at Mirabar, where we discussed various initiatives and plans for the future. Options Board Treasurer Mike Marrapodi gave an overview of our financial outlook for 2019. Essentially, we’re surviving and on our way to thriving, as long as key budget items come together. Also shared at the annual meeting were the details of a grant that Options applied for to help support the much-needed work to build and sustain our web and social media presence. At our meeting, we announced an exciting partnership with the Providence Public Library, which is creating a Rhode Island LGBTQ archive. Options will be contributing its physical archive – every issue in print all the way back to 1982 – to be properly stored for posterity.This means Options will be entirely available to the public and researchers in paper and digital form. Thank you to the Mirabar staff for hosting the meeting and to those who attended. It was wonderful to share the work of Options in person with our dedicated readers, and discuss the growth and needs of this organization. If you have spare time and feel the urge to make your mark in the LGBTQ+ community by volunteering, please email me at tc@optionsri.org. I will find a role that fits your talents and timeframe. We especially need volunteers to help with the Gay 5K on September 22. We also have several vacancies on our board, and we aim to have a board as beautifully diverse as our community, with expertise in various realms including fundraising, branding, distribution (online and physical), development, legal, and journalism. Thank you for your continued support of Options. Funds raised through donations and advertising directly make Options available to those who need access to the crucial information and local resources only we provide. So, as you soak up the sun’s rays this summer, consider donating and/or volunteering, and help those in our community who need to know what their options are. As we know, it’s great to have Options.
Dr. TC Rogers President Melissa DaSilva, LICSW Vice President Dr. Mike Marrapodi Treasurer Directors Joty Allison Brendan Chipley Roane Ashley Delgado Dr. Jamie J. Hagen Arthur Snow
Cheers, Dr.TC Rogers Board President tc@optionsri.org optionsri.org/donate-1 optionsri.org/advertise
ADVERTISER
LIST Show that your organization or business supports the local LGBTQ+ community! Contact advertise@optionsri.org today.
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Options | June / July 2019
4 AIDS Project RI 19 Beneficent Church 17 Blue Cross Blue Shield of RI 29 Butler Hospital - True Self 11 Campus Fine Wines 26 DJ’s Ltd. 27 Friends of Toto 25 GLAD 38 Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation 38 GoProvidence.com 29 Gordon School 27 Insperiors: Inspired Interiors
27 Michael O'Mara, Counseling & Psychotherapy 29 Michael Merolla, Interior Painter 31 Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island 19 Patriot Subaru 27 PFLAG Providence 16 Photography Team 2 Providence G 31 Providence Gay Flag Football League 23, 40 Rhode Island Pride 25 The Stable Tea Dance - June 16 22 Thundermist Health Centers
ER B M E T E P S
2019
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K R A P ICK CITY WICK RI
W R RD, WAR A A V E L W U O B ONNOR ’C O N E H P E ST
M A 9 : N O I T A R T S I REG M A 0 1 : K L A W / E C A R M O C . K 5 Y A G E H T N U TS N A W W W. R R T S I G E 300 R
FIRST E H T R PANTS I O C F I T S T R R A I P H L S AL TECH MEDALS TO OPTIONS EDS ALL PROCE
BENEFIT
CALENDAR: June
June 1 AIDS Run/Walk for Life June 4 Pride Art Gallery
Fri. May 31–Sun. 2 Newport Pride Weekend. Friday: Flag raising, 4:30pm; Beach yoga, 6pm. Saturday: Schooner ride, 2pm; Party, 8pm-1am. Sunday: Bike ride, 10am; Festival, 12pm-4pm; Tea Dance, 5pm. For more info, newportout.com. Sat. 1 33rd AIDS Run/Walk for Life, 8am. Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 5K with theme “Stride for Pride & Show Your True Colors.” Runners register at www.aidswalkforlife. org for $40, which includes t-shirt and medal. Walker registration is free; t-shirts given if you raise $25 or more. Awards for top runners, top fundraisers, and costumes. For details, call 659-6038 or visit aidsprojectri.org. Sat. 1 RI Women’s Association Dance, 6:30-11:30pm. The Nelson, 225 Niantic Avenue, Cranston. DJ Karen, cash bar, food menu. Members free/guests $12. For info, riwa.net.
June 7-9 Providence Gay Men’s Chorus
Sat. 1 Newport Pride Party: Fishnets, 8pm-1am. Christie's, 351 Thames Street, Newport. DJ Abby Duren and live performances. Pre-registration at newportout.com is free and includes one Narragansett Beer. $5 at the door. Sun. 2 Drag Brunch, 12-2pm. Massimo Restaurant, 134 Atwells Avenue, Providence. Glitz, glam, and humor with Drag in RI girls Jacqueline DiMera, LaDiva Jonz, and Vi’let. Reservations encouraged at 273-0650. Sun. 2 Options Magazine Release Party, 3-5pm. The Stable, 125 Washington Street.Volunteers needed for distribution.
June 12 Interfaith Service
June 15 RI PrideFest
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Sun. 2 PVD Laughs with Jennie McNulty, John Kelley, and Karen O’Donnell, 6pm. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. $10 general admission/$15 reserved seat at brownpapertickets.com. Every Mon. & Thu. Frontrunners RI twice weekly runs, 6pm. Meet at the north end of the Blackstone Blvd. path, near Three Sisters Restaurant. Runs are 3-5 miles. All levels welcome. For weekly updates, frontrunnersri.com/calendar. html or email frontrunnersri@gmail.com. Mon. 3 RI PrideVolunteer Orientation, 7pm. 2 Charles Street, Providence. For info, prideri.org.
Options | June / July 2019
Mon. 3, 10, 17, 24 Frontrunners outdoor yoga class, 6:45pm. Lippitt Park, Providence. Bring a yoga mat. Free. For weekly updates, frontrunnersri. com/calendar.html or write to frontrunnersri@gmail.com. Mon. 3, 10, 17, 24 Free Play Arcade GAYme night, 7pm-1am. Colosseum, 182 Pine Street, Providence. Over 115 vintage arcade games, pinball, skee ball, and drag show. All games set to free play. 18+. $4 cover to benefit RI Pride. For more info, freeplayri.com. Tue. 4 Pride Art Gallery: Opening Night Celebration, 7-9:30pm. 2 Charles Street, Providence. Local LGBTQIA+ artists featured at four Providence locations throughout June: 2 Charles Street, includes a Hall of Flags; City Hall (City Services office), 25 Dorrance Street; the Providence Marriott Downtown, 1 Orms Street; and Sprout CoWorking Gallery, 166 Valley Street. “Gayllery Night" tour is June 20. For more info, prideri.org. Wed. 5, 12, 19, 26 Yoga Wellness Wednesdays with Project Fearless, 7:30pm. Free. Mats provided. Hope Artiste Village, unit #7080, 999 Main Street, Pawtucket. For updates, facebook. com/ProjectFearlessRI. Fri. 7–Sun. 9 Providence Gay’s Men’s Chorus: Rights of Passage, Fri. and Sat. 7pm, Sun. 4pm. The Greenwich Odeum, 59 Main Street, East Greenwich. For info, provgmc.org. Fri. 7 Pride Sabbath, 7:30pm. Temple Habonim, 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. “Coming Out Into Love:” Rabbi Klein and husband, photojournalist Adam Mastoon, describe their journeys working for equity and diversity. Reception follows. For info, visit templehabonim.org or call 245-6536. Fri. 7 Kitty Litter is Back: An Evening of Drag, 8–11pm. Stadium Theatre Marquee Room, 28 Monument Square, Woonsocket. A purrfect evening of drag queen musical comedy and quick-witted banter. Adult content/language. $26.
Sat. 8 Boston Pride Festival & Parade, 11am. City Hall Plaza and vicinity. For details, bostonpride.org. Sat. 8 Dykestravaganza, 8-11pm. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. Randy Andy presents a showcase of drag kings, burlesque, games and more. All are welcome. $10-$25.
Sun. 9 RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7pm. Social, dinner, and networking group for older gay and bi men on second Sundays. For more info, www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010. Tue. 11 RI Pride Volunteer Orientation, 7pm. 2 Charles Street, Providence. For info, prideri.org. Wed. 12 Interfaith Service, 7pm. Bell Street Chapel, 3 Bell Street, Providence. A service by religious leaders from the LGBTQIA community for members of the community in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. All are welcome. Sponsored by TGI Network of RI, tginetwork.org. Thu. 13 GLAD’s Justice for All: Rhode Island Event, 6-8pm. Providence Art Club, 11 Thomas Street. For details, glad. org/events/2019ri/. Thu. 13 Feminist & Queer Happy Hour, 6-8:30pm. Saint Monday, 393 West Fountain Street, Providence. For details, facebook.com/ feministandqueerhappyhour. Thu. 13 Sweet Little Pride Show, 8-10-pm. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. Featuring Randy Andy, comic Rich Hite, the Tropigals, host Eva Destruction and more. $10. Partial proceeds benefit RI Pride. 18+ unless accompanied by an adult. Food and drink available. For details, facebook. com/sweetlittlevarietyshow and sweetlittlevarietyshow.com. Fri. 14 Cocktails for Happy Cat Tales, 6:30-10pm. Providence G, 100 Dorrance Street, Providence. PawsWatch benefit for community cats featuring emcee Mr. Gay RI 2018 Ryan Welch, Kandi Dishe, and Annie B. Frank. For advance tix ($50/$60 at the door) and info, 2529835 or pawsaplenty@live.com. Fri. 14 Rhode Island Pride VIP Rooftop Party, 7-9pm. Graduate Providence Hotel Garden Terrace, 11 Dorrance Street, Providence. For details, prideri.org. Sat. 15 RI PrideFest Main Stage, noon7pm. South Water Street, Providence. Free. All ages. For details, see page 12 or visit prideri.org. Sat. 15 RI Pride’s Illuminated Night Parade, 8pm. Dorrance, Washington, Empire, and Weybosset Streets, Providence. Free. For details, see page 12 or visit prideri.org.
Sat. 15 Womxn's Night: Queer Pride Party, 8pm-midnight. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. A cabaret and club night for womxn featuring queer performance. Partners, friends, and allies welcome. 21+. $10 cover. For more info, facebook.com/WomxnsNight.
Mon. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Frontrunners outdoor yoga class, 6:45pm. Lippitt Park, Providence. Bring a yoga mat. Free. For weekly updates, frontrunnersri. com/calendar.html or write to frontrunnersri@gmail.com.
Sun. 16 RI Pride Drag Brunch, 11am doors/show noon. Graduate Providence, 11 Dorrance Street. Hosted by Miss Gay Rhode Island 2019 Pulp Friction and Mr. Gay Rhode Island 2019 Brett Jacob and featuring JuJu Bee, Jacqueline DiMera, Kira Stone, Onyx, Assa Sination, and Complete Destruction. $40 ticket includes admission and an all you can eat breakfast buffet. More details at www. prideri.org/drag-brunch.
Mon. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Free Play Arcade GAYme night, 7pm-1am. Colosseum, 182 Pine Street, Providence. Over 115 vintage arcade games, pinball, skee ball, and drag show. All games set to free play. 18+. $4 cover to benefit RI Pride. For more info, freeplayri.com. Wed. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 YogaWellness Wednesdays with Project Fearless, 7:30pm. Free yoga and mats provided. Hope Artiste Village, unit #7080, 999 Main Street, Pawtucket. For updates, facebook.com/ProjectFearlessRI.
Sun. 16 Big GayTea Dance Block Party, 12-8pm. The Stable, 125 Washington Street, Providence. Wed. 19 Queer Book Club, 7-9:30pm. Reading: The Clothesline Swing by Ahmad Danny Ramadan. Third Wednesdays at Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence. For more info, email queerbookclub@gmail.com or join the Providence Queer Book Club Facebook group. Fri. 21 SAGE LGBT Café, noon-2pm. Church of the Transfiguration, 1665 Broad Street, Cranston. A delicious, low-cost lunch in a gay-friendly setting on third Fridays sponsored by Meals on Wheels, the Department of Elderly Affairs, and SAGE-RI. $3 donation suggested for LGBT people 60+ and people with disabilities; $6 donation suggested for all others. Reservations required. Call Diane at 351-6700 x105. Thu. 27 National HIV Testing Day. Free rapid HIV testing at Walgreens, 1 Pocasset Avenue, Providence, from 10am-7pm. Free HIV, hep C, and syphilis testing, 4-7pm at AIDS Project RI’s 9 Pleasant Street, Providence location. Details at www.aidsprojectri.org.
July Every Mon. & Thu. Frontrunners RI twice weekly runs, 6pm. Meet at the north end of Blackstone Blvd. path, near Three Sisters Restaurant. Runs are 3-5 miles. All levels welcome. For weekly updates, frontrunnersri.com/calendar. html or write to frontrunnersri@gmail. com.
Sun. 7 Drag Brunch, 12-2pm. Massimo Restaurant, 134 Atwells Avenue, Providence. Glitz, glam, and humor with Drag in RI girls Jacqueline DiMera, LaDiva Jonz, and Vi’let. Reservations encouraged at 273-0650. Thu. 11 Feminist & Queer Happy Hour, 6-8:30pm. Saint Monday, 393 W Fountain Street, Providence. For details, facebook. com/feministandqueerhappyhour. Thu. 11 Sweet Little Variety Show, 8pm. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence.A queer-produced potpourri of entertainment performed monthly on second Thursdays with host Eva Destruction. $7 to pay the artists. For info, facebook.com/sweetlittlevarietyshow and sweetlittlevarietyshow.com. Sun. 14 RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7pm. Social, dinner, and networking group for older gay and bi men on second Sundays. For more info, www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010. Wed. 17 Queer Book Club, 7-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays at Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence. Reading: The Clancys of Queens by Tara Clancy. Discount on books purchased at Books on the Square. For more info, email queerbookclub@gmail.com. Fri. 19 SAGE LGBT Café, noon-2pm. Church of the Transfiguration, 1665 Broad Street, Cranston. A delicious, low-cost lunch in a gay-friendly setting on third Fridays sponsored by Meals on Wheels, the Department of Elderly Affairs, and SAGE-RI. $3 donation suggested for LGBT people 60+ and people with disabilities; $6 donation suggested for all others. Reservations required. Call Diane at 351-6700 x105.
sFri. 19 Pride Night at the PawSox, 7:05pm game time. McCoy Stadium, 1 Columbus Avenue, Pawtucket. Pregame parade on the field. $10 general admission tickets with $5 going to the LGBTQ+ charity of your choice. For more info, contact tai.cordeiro@yahoo. com. Sat. 20 Womxn's Night, 8pmmidnight. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. A cabaret and club night for womxn featuring queer performance. Partners, friends, and allies welcome. 21+. $10 cover. For more info, facebook. com/WomxnsNight.
Mondays Running & Yoga
Sun. 21 Surge Tea Dance, 4-9pm. Rooftop at the Providence G, 100 Dorrance Street, Providence. Featuring DJ Jake, host Ninny Nothin, and 50/50 raffle to benefit Options Magazine. Sat. 27 GLAD’s 38th Annual Summer Party, 4-7pm. Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum, 1 High Pole Hill Road, Provincetown, MA. An inside look at how GLAD works on critical LGBTQ issues. Honoring Jayeson Watts for improving access to healthcare for trans and non-binary people, and his LGBTQ+ advocacy and public policy efforts across RI. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar.Venue is mobility accessible. ASL interpretation provided. Tickets $75. Sponsorships begin at $300. For details, visit glad.org/events or write to Chris Rainville at crainville@glad.org.
Regularly Scheduled Support Groups:
ACOS (HIV/AIDS): youth,Tue. 4pm/gay males, Wed. 1:30pm Grief: Usually 3rd Wed. 3:30pm LGBT Alcoholics Anonymous: Tue. 7pm PFLAG (parents, friends, allies): Providence, Attleboro, Newport TGI Network (trans,partner, and non-binary groups): 1st & 3rd Tue. 7pm/Sat. 1pm
TransFamily New England: 2nd Mon. 6:30pm YPI (youth): Way Out,Thu. 4pm/Gender Spectrum,Tue. 4pm/youth 13 and under:Thu. 5pm See Resources on page 32 for complete information
July 7 Drag Brunch
July 13 Feminist & Queer Happy Hour
July 19 PawSox Pride Night
JULY 27 GLAD Summer Party
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NEWS BRIEFS: by Myra Shays
Pride Sabbath at Temple Habonim
As in Pride Months in the past, once again the public is warmly invited to observe Gay Pride Sabbath at Temple Habonim in Barrington, RI, a Reform congregation, on the evening of June 7. This is a uniquely designed service that celebrates the history, accomplishments, and aspirations of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Sharing the pulpit will be Rabbi Andrew Klein and his husband Adam Mastoon, an award-winning photojournalist and storyteller who is dedicated to issues of social justice. They will describe “Coming Out Into Love,” the story of their journeys working for equity and inclusivity. Temple Habonim is at 165 New Meadow Road in Barrington. The service will begin at 7:30pm, with a reception to follow. For more information, please visit www. templehabonim.org, or call 245-6536.
Pride Flag Vandalized at Church
As reported by Channel 6 in early April, a symbol of pride turned into a symbol of hate in five days at the United Methodist Church of East Greenwich on Route 2. Although the national body of Methodists had narrowly voted in February not
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Options | June / July 2019
to ordain gay ministers or approve same-gender marriages, the East Greenwich congregation decided to show its inclusivity by hanging a rainbow flag to welcome LGBT people. But within a week the flag was in tatters. "It couldn't have been caused by the wind. It was cut…with scissors or a knife," said pastor Rev. William Trench, recalling that a few days earlier he had received an anonymous phone call asking, "Doesn't anyone there read the Bible? You shouldn't have that gay flag." Amid the bigotry, said Rev.Trench, "There's an important lesson to be learned from this. It gives us a sense of what LGBT people go through all the time. It made clear why we need the flag."
Thundermist Introduces Rainbow Wellness Program by Lauren Nocera
Building on its successful Trans* Wellness Program, Thundermist Health Center’s new Rainbow Wellness Program will expand wellness offerings to the broader LGBTQ+ community. The program was developed in response to feedback from the community and evidence that members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially those who are older or living with disabilities, are more likely to be socially isolated or suffering the effects of behavioral health conditions, such as depression. “I have felt welcomed and included when attending past events. The activities give me a chance to meet new people I identify with. I have fun, get out of the house, and might
even move my body,” said a regular participant of previous Trans* Wellness events. The program is funded by the Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services and will offer a wide variety of free, fun programs and events focusing on both physical and mental wellness. The program kicks off on June 6 with a free visit to the Roger Williams Botanical Center for a tour and lunch. For more information on the Rainbow Wellness Program or to sign up for the Botanical Center event, please contact Lauren Nocera at 7674100 ext. 3066 or email LaurenN@ ThundermistHealth.org.
All-Male College Will Accept Trans Men
Morehouse College, an all-male, 150-year-old, historically black school in Atlanta, will open its enrollment to trans men, as reported in The NY Times in mid-April. Once admitted, students are expected to continue to self-identify as men throughout their matriculation. If they do not, they will be asked to leave. Morehouse is the second all-male college to adopt this policy. The first was St. John's University in Collegeville, MN. Morehouse announced its new plan a day after the U.S. Military implemented its policy for transgender troops. They are allowed to enlist, but only if they present as the gender to which they were assigned at birth. They are also not allowed to transition while they are in the military.
FREE ESTIMATES
Let’s customize your colors together Trump Plans to Permit Healthcare Discrimination
The Trump administration announced in May that it plans to roll back a part of the Affordable Care Act that protects trans people from discrimination in health care and insurance coverage. Such discrimination will still be illegal, though it may be harder to enforce ones rights. Numerous courts over two decades have said that federal sex-discrimination laws protect trans people from bias. The Dept. of Health & Human Services (HHS) in 2016 adopted a rule clarifying this policy, making it easier for trans patients to enforce their rights. But several state officials and organizations sued to overturn the rule.The judge (known to be prejudiced) ignored the vast majority of other courts and in 2016 ordered HHS to stop enforcing the rule. The Trump administration then told the judge it would work to roll back the rule. This can take years, and requires public comment on a draft. Meanwhile, trans people must be vigilant to avoid discrimination, because the rule is still in effect. In April the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case testing whether sex discrimination laws do, indeed, include protections for trans people.
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Momentous Equality Act Passed in U.S. Congress
On Friday, May 17, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a measure that would add sexual orientation and transgender status as protected classes to the national antidiscrimination laws that have existed for decades. This crucial bill was introduced by Rhode Island's own David Cicilline, a Democrat, and was co-sponsored by 240 others, including three Republicans. It protects against discrimination in housing, employment, credit, and other important facets of life. Some observers noted that the bill had been blocked in "committee-referral purgatory" by Republicans. They urge Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to avoid repeating this mistake, and to immediately call a vote on it in that body.
Providence’s liquor store since 1974 wine/beer/spirits www.campusfinewines.com 127 Brook Street • Providence 401-621-9650
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RI PrideFest is Here!
On Saturday, June 15 over 100,000 people are expected to celebrate the RI PrideFest & Parade with the bold theme Live Your Truth. Rhode Island Pride invites you and your family (of whatever tradition) to reject the societal expectations imposed on you, and to come out and Live Your Truth, with pride. Despite our progress over the years, society still assumes that everyone, from the moment of birth, is cis and straight. You’re expected to wear certain things, love certain people, and accept being referred to with certain pronouns. You’re expected and assumed to be someone other than who you truly may be. The Live Your Truth theme for 2019 reflects what’s at the heart of Pride: an opportunity to be exactly who you are, out in the open. The theme celebrates the numerous different genders, skin colors, sexual orientations, ages, races, religions, physical and mental abilities, national origins, and ethnicities (among many other factors) that make each of us who we are. We’ll especially live our truths by parading through the streets and showcasing the beautiful range of diverse individual identities among us. The annual PrideFest is located on
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Options | June / July 2019
South Water Street from noon to 7pm and features live entertainment, over 200 vendors, the Hasbro Kid’s Zone, food trucks, arts, a Youth Center, and a beer, wine and spirits garden. The annual rally takes place at 3pm with a special commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall riots. South entry is by Wickenden Street, and the north entrance is where Memorial Blvd. meets South Water Street. Entertainers include DJ Ephraim Adamz, Brian Faltudo (from School of Rock), local bands Jodi Jolt and The Volt and the Mary Day Band, drag king Spikey Van Dykey, and RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars: Alaska 5000, Adore Delano, Monique Heart, and Jasmine Masters. Hosts include Suite Tart Salon owner Lulu Locks, comedian John Kelley, and local drag performers Annie B. Frank, Kira Stone, and Complete Destruction. New England’s only night time Pride Parade kicks off at 8pm with a dazzling display of floats, performing artists, marching groups, businesses, and spectators. The Parade begins on Dorrance Street, winds down Washington Street to Empire Street, and ends on Weybosset Street under the iconic marquee of the Providence Performing Arts Center. A new accessible viewing area will be located at the corner
by Joe Lazzerini, President, RI Pride
of Empire and Weybosset Street for anyone with a wheelchair or who would like a place to sit. The energy in the city will be electric! To participate in the parade or festival, sign up at www.prideri.org. Please see the Options Calendar on page 8 for details about our many Pride Month events. Rhode Island Pride is PROUD to announce two Grand Marshals of the 44th Annual RI Pride Parade who are helping us truly embody our “Live Your Truth” theme for this year. Justice Ameer Gaines is a wellknown community organizer, activist, and accomplished poet who is a genderfluid Black trans woman. Xe currently serves as the Queer Justice Coordinator for the Providence Youth Student Movement (PrYSM), and is known for playing a key role in the passage of the Community Safety Act, which, among other things, guarantees trans individuals the right to be searched by a police officer of their chosen gender identity. Justice, who treats xyr very name as a serious call to action, believes in a holistic approach to social justice. “We can’t work on housing unless folks have jobs to afford rent,” xe explained, “and we cannot work on employment without also ensuring folks
have healthcare so they can stay employed.” The Providence Student Union is a non-profit group of high school student chapters that works to raise up student voices and give young people the chance to shape their schools and futures. Founded in 2010, the group’s proposed Student Bill of Rights seeks to ensure, among other things, that students are afforded freedom of expression, including “the right to express their identity, including their gender identity, and have it be respected and not policed.” Our Honorary Parade Marshals are being posthumously acknowledged this year. Lovingly known as the “King of Clubs,” Chris Harris was an award-winning event producer and community organizer. He was the co-owner of Club EGO in Providence and provided some of the best LGBTQIA+ nightlife experiences that captivated Providence and Boston audiences and forever changed the industry. Chris was a pivotal leader in the community and proud to have created safe environments where people could come together to celebrate who they are. The Chris Harris Tribute Fund (ChrisHarrisTribute. org) has been established to support an LGBTQ cancer prevention and education program in Rhode Island and beyond. Belle Pellegrino was a fierce champion for everything she believed in. In 1976, she helped lead the charge to hold the first Pride Parade in Providence. When the City denied the permits, she fought back in court and won. She marched as one of the original “76ers”
RHODE ISLAND PRIDEFEST
ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE SATURDAY, JUNE 15, 2019 South Water Street in Providence 12:00pm Jodi Jolt and the Volt 12:35pm School of Rock - North Providence 1:20pm Manhattan Prairie Dogs 1:25pm Imperial Court of Rhode Island 1:40pm Mary Day Band 2:35pm Brian Faltudo 3:00pm RI PrideFest Rally 3:30pm Drag All Stars 5:30pm RI Pride Titleholders 6:00pm Jackie Collins 6:15pm Taija New 6:45pm DJ Ephraim Adams Illuminated Night Parade kicks off on Dorrance Street at 8pm.
in Rhode Island’s first Pride Parade. Belle spent her life inspiring others to give back to their community. She volunteered as an EMT and with many organizations, served as a pastor, and reigned as Emperor 16 and 24 of the Imperial Court of Rhode Island. Rhode Island Pride is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization comprised of individuals with a sincere interest in recognizing, promoting and celebrating the diversity and successes of the LGBTQ community in RI and Southern New England. By creating opportunities for integrating and promoting visibility for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community, RI Pride promotes equal rights and diversity through public education and the arts.The year-round programs and services of RI Pride provide safe opportunities and venues for people to come out and express and celebrate their sexual identities. For more information, visit www.prideri.com, email info@prideri.com, or call (401) 467-2130.
www.optionsri.org
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Stand Up and Cheer
FOR STONEWALL! It’s a celebration! June 28–July2 are remembered as the five days 50 years ago when those considered to be the lowest members of society stood up and let it be known that they were people, they had rights, and they were just as American as anyone else. They were New Yorkers, and they were not going to take it anymore. It was a night that galvanized a movement that had been germinating across the country, in other bar confrontations in Los Angeles and San Francisco, and in small organized groups such as The Mattachine Society and the Daughters of Bilitis. These riots launched what has come to be known as PRIDE: events traditionally held in June celebrating the rainbow of humanity that is the LGBTQ community, almost always culminating in a giant parade. It was 1969. The civil rights movement was in high gear with fists in the air shouting “Black Power!” and singing “We Shall Overcome.” Women’s rights demonstrations had become front and center and the citizenry was conflicted over the war in Vietnam. Protesters chanted at large rallies, “Hell no! We won’t go!” There was the moon landing and Woodstock, the largest music festival in the country. Hair
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was longer. Skirts were shorter. Hippies espoused flower power and free love. It was the age of Aquarius: Let the sunshine in. It started late at night on June 28. The mood in the city was dark and dour as the world mourned for America’s musical sweetheart Judy Garland, whose massive funeral was earlier that day. The mourning of this singer was worldwide, but nowhere more devastating than with homosexuals. There was no conclusive evidence that any one of the patrons of The Stonewall Inn were actually mourning, but Garland’s death would turn out to underscore one giant step over the rainbow of attainable human rights as more and more homosexuals, drag queens, trans people, bisexuals, and gay youths would come out, stand up, and speak out. The Stonewall Inn was considered a somewhat seedy bar, and that night the riffraff were hanging out, having cocktails, and dancing to the jukebox. Suddenly the police arrived, which was not supposed to happen. Raids in gay bars were not uncommon, but in this case regular payments had been made to avoid this kind of trouble. Having sex with someone of the same sex was illegal in 1969, and so it was prudent to
by Bradford Greer
have a tightly locked closet door. Trans? Almost no one was transitioning in 1969. If you were uncomfortable with your gender you sucked it up, cross dressed when you could get away with it, or became a drag queen or transvestite (the term of the day). There were very, very few visible genderqueer people and practically no one was seeking surgical corrections.These were dire secrets with the most dramatic of consequences if disclosed. So when the lights came on and the police came in at Stonewall that night, the music was turned off. IDs were being checked, which meant one could lose their job and family if names were published under these circumstances. Yet this time there was resistance that built as the police lined up people to check to see that they were the sex they were dressed as. A policeman got overly familiar with a lesbian and fists began to fly. A crowd had begun to gather when a paddy wagon arrived. And when a policeman got rough with a drag queen and tried to shove her into the paddy wagon, she hit him with her purse and he clubbed her. The crowd went wild, pelting police with coins, empty bottles, and stones as they also watched a policeman
bodily heave a lesbian into a patrol car. The police retreated back into the bar and the angry crowd rushed the entrance, bashed in the windows, and tried to set fire to the building.A young hustler uprooted a parking meter to ram the doors. Trash was set on fire. Reinforcements pushed the crowd back and managed to disperse it, and the days of silent invisibility had violently turned a corner. That was not the end of it. The next four days saw larger crowds of vocal protesters gather in the streets, leading to more violent and bloody conflicts with the police. In Search of Stonewall is a collection of essays edited by Richard Schneider, Jr. In it archivist and author Toby Marotta writes: “All day Saturday as word began to spread, the crowd gathered across the street in and around Christopher Park to gossip, share impressions, and speculate on what would happen next. By the afternoon, the Stonewall had reopened as a juice bar. Its employees were handing out balloons, blaming the police for the raid. But already they, too, had been put on notice that there was a new force in town – what the eye-catching graffiti chalked onto their storefront called ‘Gay Power’ and ‘Queen Power.’ As evening arrived, friends greeted one another with shameless hugs. Improvised wisecracking, singing, and dancing gave rise to more choreographed cheers, chants, and kick lines. For the first time, in group slang, campy performance, unspoken lusts, and even long-suppressed resentments were being aired – all this in an officially patrolled public place.” Renowned gay author Edmund White writes in the same collection of essays, “[They heard] the sound of inmates in the women’s prison banging their tin cups against the bars and shouting encouragement to the rioters. What changed that night was that gays who’d long thought of themselves as a sin, a crime, or an illness suddenly saw themselves as a minority.” Celebrated author Rita Mae Brown was also there and wrote in her essay, “I would dip in and out to see what was going on. Before that we had been trying to organize women at the bars. We were called The Lavender Menace of the women’s movement. But a lot of gay women even in the Village were content with their duplicitous lives. They’d made their peace with that. But once the Stonewall riots happened, people sort of woke up, including women.”
Editor Richard Schneider, Jr. notes, “By the time of Stonewall we had 50-60 gay groups in the country. A year later there were at least 1500. Two years later, to the extent that a count could be made, it was 2500, according to Frank Kameny, a Washington D.C. activist.” But not everyone is able to celebrate their sexual freedom all across the land of the free and home of the brave. Only 21 states and Washington D.C. prohibit discrimination in employment, according to the Human Rights Campaign. All but five states have laws that address hate crimes, but 15 states do not include sexual orientation or gender identity. Thirty four states have not banned conversion therapy. Marriage equality is the law of the nation, but we know that law is not always respected, and many Republicans are working very
What do we want? Gay rights! When do we want them? Now! hard to overturn it. Homosexuality is still illegal in 35 percent of countries in the United Nations. In 12 of those countries it is punishable by death. Yes, our enemies are still many, and progress yields backlash. Here they come, slithering out from the dark into the bright light of day, voting to end civil rights to the disenfranchised: women, people of color, people of different sexual identities, and immigrants. Fifty years post-Stonewall, racism is rearing its ugly head and swinging a mighty fist. Where are The Avengers when you need them? The rallying cries of 1969 are still the rallying cries of the present. “Out of the closets and into the streets!” is still shouted on National Coming Out Day in October. “What do we want? Gay rights! When do we want them? Now! What do we want? Trans rights! When do we want them? Now!” falls on Trump’s deaf ears as the Bigot-in-Chief declares a disgraceful ban on trans people from serving in the military. “Shame! Shame! Shame!” showers the homophobic vice president and his wife, who accepted a teaching position in a school which bars LGBTQ students.
“We Shall Overcome” is dedicated to the Republican congressmembers doing their best to reverse every law of protection for women and LGBTQ people. But do not despair! We have come so very far since June of 1969. Perhaps most importantly, more and more, people are embodying their sexual fluidity or gender nonbinary identities and living openly. Not only have we made great legal strides including marriage equality, and many politicians now court our vote (or are themselves out of the closet), but mainstream culture increasingly celebrates LGBTQ people. Our icons have evolved with us. For example, A Star is Born has been remade twice since Judy Garland starred in it: once with Barbara Streisand and once with Lady Gaga. Celebrities and Hollywood in general openly advocate for LGBTQ rights.Television shows depict gay characters and many major movies have brought to light historic contributions of gay people like Alan Turing, who broke the German code to help win WWII, Assemblyman Harvey Milk, and Sir Elton John. Bud Light, Stoli, and other popular brands produce limited-edition Pridethemed label designs to grace the shelves of retailers across the nation announcing, “Pride is here, people, whether you like it or not.” A Washington D.C. brewery is launching a limited-edition brew featuring Marsha P. Johnson on the can with 28 flowers symbolizing the U.S. trans deaths in 2018. Yes, there is still much work to be done, so get out your handbags. Pull up your parking meters. Help others to vote, because there are right-wing marauders coming for you and they are bold (and not so beautiful). Special events commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall Riots are being celebrated across the country this Pride season, including major events in New York City and Provincetown. Let’s all stand up, cheer loud and long, and raise our rainbow flag high enough to embrace every one of the diverse letters in our alphabet of sexual and gender identity. In the words of the 1969 film, The Madwoman of Chaillot, “There may be an army of them, and only a handful of us. And how can a poor little band fight a mighty regime? There may be a legion of them and only a parcel of us. But it isn’t the size of the fist; it’s the size of the dream.” We will celebrate The Stonewall Riots, and we SHALL overcome!
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SOMETIMES FACE-TO-FACE JUST WORKS BETTER. Especially when it comes to finding the right health plan for your family or business. Or when you’re just looking for new and convenient ways to take better care of—you! Your Blue Storessm—located in East Providence, Lincoln, and Warwick— proudly display the Safe Zone logo, affirming our commitment to a diverse and inclusive community where all people feel safe and accepted. Stop by, get what you need, and learn why helping you get more health from your health plan is more than a promise, it’s what we live for.sm
Safe Zone Committed to providing a supportive environment for LGBTQ individuals
We’re proud sponsors of 2019 RI PrideFest this June…come see us!
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
HR-318150 4/19
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Fighting to Modernize RI’s Outdated Parentage Laws
by Amanda Johnston, Director of Public Affairs and Education GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD)
All children and parents need and deserve security and legal protections. But Rhode Island’s family laws have not kept up with the many ways contemporary families are formed – in fact, they have not been updated since the 1970s. The Rhode Island legislature has a chance to change that, with two bills that will modernize the state’s parentage and co-parent adoption laws. The Rhode Island Parentage Act (H5707/S0789), sponsored by Rep. Carol McEntee and Sen. Erin Lynch Prata, establishes clear paths to parentage in Rhode Island, including for children born through assisted reproductive technology and surrogacy.The bill is based on the 2017 Uniform Parentage Act (UPA), a model, non-partisan, uniform law that advises all states to ensure that their parentage statutes apply equally to LGBTQ families, among other suggested updates. The Rhode Island Confirmatory Adoption Act (H5706/S0497), sponsored by Rep. Carol McEntee and Sen. Gayle L. Goldin, streamlines and provides greater clarity and consistency in the process for co-parent adoptions by people, particularly
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Photo by Steve Ahlquist
LGBTQ couples, who seek to confirm parentage, through adoption, of their own children conceived through assisted reproduction. H5707/S0789 and H5706/S0497 have had two emotional and well-attended public hearings in the House and the Senate, in which parents shared heartwrenching stories about how current holes in Rhode Island law have a devastating impact on their children and families, and advocates and family law attorneys testified about the urgent need for these bills. “Having a secure, legal connection to their parents as soon after birth as possible is critical to children’s financial security and emotional well-being,” says Polly Crozier, Senior Staff Attorney at GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD). “Among many critical gaps, Rhode Island is the only state in New England lacking any protections for children born through assisted reproductive technology and for children born through surrogacy, leaving children vulnerable. Existing law also places unnecessary, costly, and often humiliating burdens, including invasive home studies, on parents who are adopting their own
children. We need to do better for all Rhode Island families.” In addition to parents, families, and community members, these bills are supported by experts and advocates including LGBTQ Action Rhode Island, GLAD, Resolve NE, the Rhode Island Department of Human Services/Office of Child Support Services, the ACLU of RI, Transnet, Fertility Within Reach, Thundermist, long-standing family law practitioner Lise Iwon, and surrogacy law practitioner Mike Grant. For more information, legislative updates, an additional list of supporters, and fact sheets on The Rhode Island Parentage Act, and The Rhode Island Confirmatory Adoption Act, visit www.glad.org/ri-family. Through strategic litigation, public policy advocacy, and education, GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) works in New England and nationally to create a just society free of discrimination based on gender identity and expression, HIV status, and sexual orientation. For more info, visit www.glad.org.
You Are Welcome! Worship Service: Sunday - 10am Open Sanctuary: Wednesday - 12pm
Beneficent Congregational Church 300 Weybosset Street, Providence beneficentchurch.org office@beneficentchurch.org - (401) 331-9844
Beneficent Church is a Christ-centered, Open and Affirming, racially, culturally, and socioeconomically diverse congregation.
www.optionsri.org
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OUT ON THE TOWN
RI Pride Pageant The Colosseum, Providence, April 7 Photos by Jen Bonin
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Imperial Court of RI Coronation Graduate Hotel, Providence, April 18 Photos by Jack Hartwein-Sanchez
www.optionsri.org
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by Ethan Huckel
This May, TGI Network of Rhode Island was again proud to be the community partner for the RI Trans Health Conference on May 18. This year, we were excited to collaborate with Youth Pride Inc. and PrYSM (Providence Youth Student Movement) to add youth-oriented programming to the conference. The community track of the conference expanded to welcome almost two hundred transgender and gender diverse people and their family and friends. We have come quite a long way from the one-room event that began five years ago. We’re especially thankful to those who come together each year to plan this conference so that we can expand access to trans-affirming healthcare. The planning committee is made up of a remarkable group of positive, dedicated, resilient, hard-working, and caring people who rally behind this event when, at times, it would be easier to walk away. In particular, we want to thank Alexis Drutchas, who first
conceived of this educational event for local healthcare providers and who has, ever since, dedicated herself to building a conference driven by community voices. If you would like to help plan next year’s conference, please email transhealthri@ gmail.com for more information. As this year marks the 50th anniversary of Stonewall, we want to encourage our transgender community members to be inspired by the resilience and resistance of our predecessors. Just as the Stonewall participants united because of their position on the fringes of the queer community and banded together in collective resistance to the violence of police targeting and brutality, we must recognize that, despite our progress, these forces have not been deterred. We must stand in solidarity with those most affected by police violence and overreach. We support Providence Student Union’s (PSU) “Counselors Not Cops” campaign and encourage our community members to volunteer with PSU, PrYSM, AMOR, and other organizations working against state-sponsored violence and oppression. This Pride season, we are hosting an LGBTQ Interfaith Service on June 12 at 7pm at Bell Street Chapel in Providence. The theme of the service is “Speaking in the First Person,” and, as a reflection of the ways that queer stories have often been filtered through a straight, cisgender lens, this service is focused on us telling our stories ourselves. Please join us. As always,
we will be tabling and marching at Pride and we welcome you to swing by our booth and march with us. We will post our marching location on Facebook, but you can also find us by looking for the transgender, genderqueer, nonbinary, and intersex flags we will be flying. Finally, we are very excited to announce that during the Pride festival this year, we will be presenting our Gwendolyn Spencer Legacy Award to honor a longstanding member of the Rhode Island transgender community who has tirelessly advocated and improved trans experiences for more than a decade. Jayeson Watts has led the majority of trans-related policy wins for over fifteen years, often with little support. Such wins include transgender health insurance inclusion, accessible correct drivers licenses and birth certificates for trans people, and more. Please join us on the main stage as we present Jaye with his award. TGI Network of Rhode Island is the only statewide organization providing support, advocacy and education for the transgender, gender-variant, and intersex community (aka trans* community). Incorporated in 2011, our mission is to be a resource for TGI people navigating their lives and the medical and legal systems; to serve as a resource for professionals working with TGI people; and to serve as a liaison between the TGI and LGB communities and the community at large. Visit us at www.tginetwork.org.
woonsocket west warwick wakefield
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A “SAFE ZONE” to Receive the Healthcare You Need
At a particularly divisive time both politically and religiously, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) has certified a new wave of BCBSRI LGBTQ Safe Zone providers representing several specialties across the state that offer safe, affirming, and inclusive care to the LGBTQ community. BCBSRI introduced the program in 2016, and this new group – including primary care, behavioral health, child and family services, and, for the first time, elder care facilities – joins more than a dozen other providers statewide designated as BCBSRI LGBTQ Safe Zone certified providers. In this robust new group of Safe Zone providers, it is of particular significance that we have identified Safe Zones specifically for elder care for the first time: Aldersbridge Communities. Despite creating families of choice and other support networks, many LGBTQ older people still experience high rates of social isolation.They are twice as likely to be single and to live alone, and three to four times as likely to be childless. Older LGBTQ people who find themselves in a care facility are already in a vulnerable situation regardless of their sexuality. We sometimes see a phenomenon of LGBTQ seniors “aging back into the closet” out of fear of negative treatment by staff or fellow residents. According to the organization Justice in Aging, only 50 percent of senior-age LGBTQ Americans in long-term care said they were comfortable being out about their orientation.
The newly designated BCBSRI LGBTQ Safe Zones include: PVD Psychological Associates - Providence A private psychology practice whose mission is to provide the greater Rhode Island area with exceptional therapy and to offer cutting edge and research-supported treatment by a team of highly trained therapists. PVD Psychological Associates serves adults, college students, and adolescents, and they are an affirming practice that is well-versed in serving LGBTQ individuals and their families. Tri-County Community Action Agency - Johnston A non-profit agency that provides a highly diverse and comprehensive range of services where LGBTQ patients can feel safe, welcome, and cared for. Tri-County’s health centers have already been designated as Safe Zones, and now the Community Action Agency hopes to improve access to preventive medical, behavioral, and dental services for LGBTQ patients. St. Mary’s Home for Children - North Providence An organization with the mission of creating an environment of healing and hope for children and their families. Recently, St. Mary’s has been working toward assessing the needs of its diverse population of clients and has implemented a standard of care with a focus on its LGBTQ youth.
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by Guillaume Bagal Diversity & Inclusion Lead, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island
Lifespan Physician Group Lifestyle Medicine Center (LPG) - Providence The center provides evidence-based practice in assisting individuals and families to adopt and sustain behaviors that can improve their health and quality of life. LPG offers both individual and group lifestyle medicine services and its methods focus on four main areas: physical activity, nutrition, substance use, and stress management. LPG understands that there are patients who may be reluctant to reveal their sexual orientation or gender identity to their care team and is working to provide a welcoming healthcare setting. Aldersbridge Communities – East Providence, Providence, and Woonsocket Elder care communities that provide assisted living, independent living, long-term care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation for older persons to live in comfort, with dignity and purpose. Aldersbridge feels that for a person to be most comfortable in their new home or workplace they must be accepted and respected in all ways. If a senior resident chooses to come out or learns that a family member or friend is LGBTQ, Aldersbridge wants to assure them they are in a comfortable, supportive, and healthy environment. Studies show that the LGBTQ community has particular difficulty accessing quality healthcare. Sexual minorities are more likely to rate their health as poor compared to non-LGBTQ individuals. There are, however, a growing number of healthcare providers who are educated, or are willing to learn, about how to provide culturally competent care for sexual minorities. The BCBSRI LGBTQ Safe Zone Program aims to close this gap. Certification requirements for BCBSRI LGBTQ Safe Zone providers include staff training specific to the care of LGBTQ patients; protection for patients and staff from discrimination based on gender identity or expression; inclusive bathroom policies; affirming forms and procedures; and a public commitment to connecting with and serving LGBTQ people. Since 2016, BCBSRI has certified more than a dozen Safe Zones in Rhode Island to help ensure the LGBTQ community can find the care they need.View the full list of providers at bcbsri.com/safezones. Each of us deserves safe and affirming medical care, regardless of our gender identity or sexuality. While there is no one answer, BCBSRI is working toward ensuring high-quality, affordable healthcare for all Rhode Islanders. It is our hope that the LGBTQ Safe Zone Program will continue to help improve access for LGBTQ patients in receiving the best healthcare possible. Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island is the state’s leading health insurer and covers more than 450,000 members. The company is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information, visit www.bcbsri.com, follow us on Twitter @BCBSRI, and like us on Facebook at fb.com/bcbsri. To learn more about Safe Zones, visit bcbsri.com/safezones.
Justice for All: GLAD’s 2019 Rhode Island Event Thursday, June 13th | Providence Art Club
Join us for an inside look at how GLAD is working on critical LGBTQ+ issues in Rhode Island, New England, and the nation – and hear how you can make a difference. Honoring Jayeson Watts, LICSW Transgender Health Access Team Program Director at Thundermist Tickets $75 | Sponsorships begin at $300 Complimentary hors d’oeuvres | Cash bar Venue is mobility accessible | ASL interpretation provided For more information, please visit glad.org/events 2019 RI Options Ad.indd 1
5/9/2019 1:49:34 PM
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REPORT FROM SAGE/RI
by Cathy Gorman, SAGE-RI Steering Committee
RI has recently been involved in a number of activities in cooperation with both LGBT organizations and senior service providers. RI Pride representatives attended the April LGBT Café to discuss ways of achieving the goal of an inclusive and age-friendly PrideFest. The Imperial Court of RI Coronation offered SAGE-RI members an opportunity to take part in festivities while supporting an indispensable organization. SAGE-RI was represented at the annual Trans Health Conference held at Rhode Island College on May 18. A display table offered literature on caregiving, as well as SAGE/USA guide books on inclusive health care and social services. The following day, International Family Equality Day at the Hank Soars Athletic Complex in Pawtucket provided the relaxing atmosphere of a family picnic to share information and network with many other community organizations. Workshops were conducted by SAGE/USA’s New England SAGE/ Care representative at the Rhode Island Assisted Living Association Conference. SAGE-RI continues its collaboration with the Rhode Island Health Care Association. The Rhode Island Division of Elderly Affairs has committed to work collaboratively with community partners, including SAGE-RI, to better understand the needs of LGBT+ elders and to provide programs and services intended for this underserved community. LGBT+ elders have been included as a “targeted population”
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in the 2020-2024 State Plan on Aging which governs the allocation of Older Americans Act funding. The June 1 Walk for Life gave SAGE-RI members and friends an opportunity to contribute toward funding for HIV services. Older adults now comprise 50% of those living with AIDS. Volunteers staffed a table displaying useful resource information. SAGE-RI will be participating in the 2019 Rhode Island Pride Festival as it has in most years since its founding in 1995. Please plan to stop by. And if you can volunteer, email sageriinfo@ gmail.com. Help with setting up and staffing is appreciated, and visitors to the SAGE-RI booth are always welcome. An important caregiver survey is being conducted online in cooperation with SAGE/USA and the Diverse Elders Coalition. Please respond if you are providing support to a spouse, partner, parent, grandparent, friend, neighbor, or other family member. Tell us about your experiences at www.diverseelders. org/survey. This anonymous survey takes approximately 20 minutes to complete, and will be used by the Diverse Elders Coalition to develop tools to better meet the needs of caregivers in our communities. Respondents are eligible to win a $25 Target gift card. This research is generously supported by The John A. Hartford Foundation, and has been developed in partnership with the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging. This survey shares goals with SAGE-
RI in aiming to identify the unique needs of the LGBT community, to facilitate training of healthcare and social service providers, as well as to offer essential information to caregivers themselves. It is part of a larger project to identify and address the needs of family caregivers in racially and ethnically diverse communities. Please share this survey with our community’s many caregivers. SAGE/RI is very pleased to be attending the Pride at Pawsox event on July 19, which will include a parade, block party, and tabling opportunities. Please join us for what promises to be a wonderful time. Our next SAGETable Intergenerational dinner is in its planning stages. So far we’re anticipating a catered taco buffet sometime in August. This event is aimed at bridging gaps in understanding between generations while celebrating diversity and community solidarity. Stay tuned for more details. SAGE-RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) addresses issues of concern to LGBT elders and is an organization of diverse people of all ages. For information on programs or to join SAGE-RI, drop us a line at sageriinfo@gmail.com; find us on Facebook as SAGE-Rhode Island; or send correspondence to our address SAGE-RI c/o Church of the Transfiguration, 1665 Broad Street, Cranston, RI 02905.
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Greater Providence Chapter
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HELPLINE: (401) 307-1802
Providence: meets1st Wednesday of the month at The MET School, Unity Building,325 Public Street, Providence, RI (No July meeting)
Parents, Friends & Members of the LGBTQ Community
Newport: meets 2nd Monday of the month at the Parish Hall, Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham Street, Newport, RI (No July and August meetings) www.PFLAGprovidence.org for more information Email: PFLAGprovidence@gmail.com Like us on Facebook: PFLAG Greater Providence, RI Follow us on Twitter @PFLAGProvRI
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News from Youth Pride Inc. by Tiffani Carcieri, YPI staffer, with input from YPI Youth
June is here, and we at Youth Pride, Inc. (YPI) can’t wait for Rhode Island’s PrideFest and Illuminated Night Parade. We hope visitors and guests will visit YPI’s double booth for fun, games, information, and merchandise. Whether festival-goers want to wear a YPI temporary tattoo, play our Match-the-Pride-Flag game, pick up a YPI youth designed t-shirt, or learn about the services we offer, there will be something for everyone. YPI staff, board members, volunteers, and youth will be staffing the booth from opening to dusk, so drop by and say hello. Each year YPI marches in the Illuminated Pride Parade as a massive group of energetic, proud youth. All Pride flags, along with several YPI-specific flags, are carried by marchers. Hand-painted 3' x 5' canvas banners designed by our youth aged 13 and under are also carried at the front of our procession. A speaker on wheels, blasting only the best queer music, accompanies our group for the duration of the ten city block route. This year, marchers will have the option to apply illuminated body paint to themselves. We invite other youth groups, especially GSAs, to march with us in the parade. Each group will receive its own sign to carry with their group. Interested youth should email info@youthprideri. org. We asked the youth in our space "What is your favorite thing about Pride?” and some of their responses were: the main stage performances, the vendors, the ferris wheel, the great outfits, and everything! While posing this question, we found out that many of our older youth have never attended Pride before,
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but plan on going for the first time this year. We're so excited to celebrate with everyone and can't wait to see what the 2019 RI PrideFest has in store. Youth Pride Inc. provides support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 9-23. Our Drop-in Center is at 473 Westminster Street, Providence, RI. Visit www.youthprideri.org, email info@ youthprideri.org, or call (401) 421-5626 for more info.
Life can be overwhelming, especially if you’re struggling with depression or anxiety. That’s why Butler Hospital created True Self - a new outpatient program for young people from 18 to 26 years old in the LGBTQ+ communities. A safe place where you’ll be with other young adults taking part in group and individual therapy sessions—all in an inclusive and accepting environment. You are not alone. Find out more at butler.org/trueself or call 1 (844) 401-0111.
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OPTIONS
345 Blackstone Boulevard, Providence, RI
advertising@optionsri.org
Butler is the major affiliated teaching hospital for psychiatry and behavioral health of The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University.
Gordon is proud to support Options as part of our long standing commitment to the LGBTQ+ community
Nursery through eighth grade East Providence, RI
“Ain’t I AMyWoman: Journey to Womanhood” by Abi Nilsson - photo by Britt Donahue
In celebration of Campus Pride Month, Laverne Cox, LGBTQ+ activist and well known actress from Orange is the New Black, came to Rhode Island College on April 11 to discuss her journey as a transgender woman of African-American descent. Cox claims her place in society as an artist, actress, sister, and daughter, saying, “I am not just one thing, and neither are you.” Cox set the tone of her lecture to focus on a strong sense of self and mental well-being. She rose from a place of deep shame, coming from the small religious city of Mobile, Alabama, to a place of self-love. Born to a single mother who valued education, Cox believes that she is where she is today because of her schooling. As a child, she was bullied and traumatized for her gender expression.“Everyone was telling me I was a boy, but I knew in my heart and my soul I was a girl.” She was taught early on to suppress her natural instinct of femininity by her teachers and family. This caused her to feel deep shame in her early adolescence. She soon discovered her only safe place was in her imagination, most specifically when she was dancing. Cox stated that “when you are truly passionate about something, that something can be lifesaving.” She was sent to a therapist when she was in third grade after a church trip to Six Flags where she purchased a peacock fan that she used to fan herself like Scarlett O’Hara in Gone with the Wind. This raised concern among her teachers and her mother. She began to internalize her pain. Later, she almost succeeded in taking her life by swallowing a whole bottle of pills. Following this attempt on her life, she channeled her energy into her success. When she initially arrived in New York City in 1993 for college, she started doing her own thing and became one of the “club kids.” The grit and glamour of club life was the first time she felt her gender expression was valued, understood, and appreciated. She was able to get to know people as people and began to internalize that trans is beautiful. It wasn’t until 2012 that her acting career became a ticket to fame. Cox believed that being successful would solve her problems, but she was actually internalizing racist ideas and her feelings of being less than. Eventually, her childhood trauma came back to haunt her.
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Shame is a deep-rooted emotion that Cox was eager to talk about, stating, “Nothing externally will heal me. I need to heal from the inside out.” Her healing from trauma continues; she still practices somatic therapy, where she visualizes her negative energy and pushes it out through different areas of her body, thinking “I am beautifully and divinely made.” Her message of love and acceptance was well received by Rhode Island College students at this event. Student Nate Banx stated, “Laverne Cox’s presence here is unbelievable, and fans the flame of students.” “This is more than I was expecting. It was awesome to hear about her hopes for society,” said junior Ashley Blake. “She is really great and how she wants to spread her message down to the soul is great,” said Zachary Smith, also a junior. Nicki Joseph, a 16-year-old student from Connecticut one month into her transition stated, “Laverne is opening my mind to the endless possibilities of life. Seeing someone from her generation going through transition is powerful to me. At a young age and being raised creatively, I don’t like everything set in stone.” Cox’s message of self-care, coming together, acceptance, and love is being carried forward by the members of the audience. “Surrender, let the universe do what it is going to do…what is supposed to happen will come to us… we have to be of service… never attack but be lovingly critical” are life lessons that Cox learned throughout her journey. In her closing she said, “I love you, and let’s find a way to walk through this together.” Abigail Nilsson is a junior at Rhode Island College studying journalism. She is also a ski instructor and has an extensive background in health and wellness. Her 12-year-old husky Stella has accompanied her on many skiing and hiking adventures around the country.
We make health care easy. Neighborhood has affordable plans for:
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RESOURCES Options originated in 1982 as the offical newsletter of the Rhode Island Gay Task Force. Editor Jos Fayette explained, “The RIGTF wants to make the homosexual community aware of their options as gay men and women in Rhode Island. And it’s only because we live, work, love, and play in this state that there are such a large number of options available to all of us.” Options has always, and will continue to print LGBTQ resources so that
you can, as Fayette went on to say, “Exercise your OPTIONS today to make positive changes in your life tomorrow.” Help us help you! Email info@optionsri.org if you come across a resource listing that needs updating. New, updated, and featured resources are highlighted. Phone numbers are in the 401 area code and addresses are in Rhode Island, unless otherwise indicated.
ADDICTION SUPPORT GROUPS
AIDS Quilt RI: Displays local AIDS memorial quilt panels, panelmaking programs including Anna’s Workshop, HIV/AIDS education for young people. PO Box 2591, Newport. 434-4880. admin@ aidsquiltri.org. www.aidsquiltri.org. Brown University AIDS Program: Clinical trials, public policy, research, lectures, conferences, patient and community education. 121 South Main Street, Second Floor, Providence. 863-6790. brunap@ brown.edu. brown.edu/Departments/BRUNAP. Community Care Alliance: Case management, support, personal care items for people living with HIV/AIDS in northern Rhode Island. 245 Main Street, Woonsocket. 235-6092. lcohen@famresri.org. Community Care Alliance-Agape Providence: Transitional housing, drop-in center, testing, intensive case management, counseling, peer support for people living with HIV/AIDS. 292 Elmwood Ave, Providence. 572-3800. www.communitycareri.org. Comprehensive Community Action Programs: Medical, mental health, dental, social services, LGBT outreach. 311 Doric Avenue, Cranston. Also Coventry, Pawtucket, and Warwick. 467-9610. Gabriel Care, LLC: Nursing/social worker case management and financial compensation for assistance and supervision for those living with HIV. MassHealth funded for MA residents. 376 South Main Street, Fall River, MA. Contact Jenn, (508) 678-1002. HIV Antibody Testing: Anonymous. Free or sliding scale. RI Department of Health. Providence, Newport and other locations. 222-2320. Home and Hospice Care of RI: Medical care management for HIV/AIDS. 24hr nursing staff for treatment. 1085 North Main Street, Providence. Referrals: 782-0725. Bereavement groups: Contact John Charette, 727-7079. Main Office: 415-4200 or toll-free 800-3386555. www.hhcri.org. House of Compassion: HIV/AIDS housing. 2510 Mendon Road, Cumberland. 658-3992. LGBT Caregiver Online Support Group: For LGBTs caring for someone with chronic health problems. www.caregiver.org. 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. Miriam Hospital HIV & STD Testing Clinic: For gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, Hep C, and trichomoniasis. Linking to
AA Brothers in Sobriety: Gay men's open meeting -- all welcome. Saturdays 7:30 -- 8:30 pm. 296 Angell St., Providence, basement, 2nd door on side street (Diman Place). 419-0051 AddictionCenter.com: Web information guide for addiction resources nationwide. Or call 1-877-830-2915. Alcohol/Drug Helpline: RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence. 24hr. (866) 252-3784. RI LGBT AA Group: Tuesdays 7 -- 8 pm Bell Street Chapel, 5 Bell St., Providence, 273-5678. All are welcome. Seven Hills Behavioral Health: Addiction support services and Narcan. 1173 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA, 508999-4159. 310 S. Main Street, Fall River, MA, 508-235-1012. Leonard Amaral, Program Manager, lamaral@sevenhills.org. Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous: 12-step program. Fridays at 7pm. Providence Presbyterian Church, 500 Hope Street, Providence, side entrance, downstairs to the left. Gay, but all are welcome. YPTQ (Young People, Queer, Trans) meeting of AA: Wednesdays 7:30 -- 8:30pm, “common room” of Brown University Alumni Hall, 194 Meeting Street, Providence.
AIDS/HEALTH RESOURCES Afia Center for Health & Wholeness: Meals, food pantry, HIV support groups, recreational and social activities. Sponsored by AIDS Project RI. Free to clients.. Wed. and Thurs. 12 -- 3pm. 134 Mathewson St., Providence. Info: Kim Clohecy, 831-5522, Ext. 2299. AIDS Action Hotline: MA only. (800) 235-2331. www.aac.org. AIDS Care Ocean State: Confidential HIV & Hep C testing, safersex supplies, case management, emergency funds, clinical services, assisted and supportive housing for people living with HIV/AIDS, street outreach, ENCORE, HIV+ support groups. Speaker’s Bureau, 18 Parkis Ave., Providence. 521-3603 (call 781-0665 to schedule an appointment). www.aidscareos.org. AIDS Project RI: Division of Family Service of RI. Case management, buddies, COBRA and dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment and referral, wellness programs, advocacy, strength training, prevention education, HIV testing. 9 Pleasant Street, Providence. 831-5522 www.aidsprojectri.org.
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physicians for PrEP. Wed. -- Fri. 12:30 -- 3:30. 1125 N. Main St., Providence (rear of building). 793-4715. Partners in Learning About AIDS: Outreach to minorities, women of color, and LGBT community at clubs and other locations. North Providence office provides free condoms and information about STIs and post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. 1006 Charles Street, Suite 5, North Providence. 484-7523. info@plaidsproject.org. www.plaidsproject.org. Planned Parenthood of So. New England: Confidential, low-cost, same-day & walk-in STD and HIV testing. Commonsense approach to health. 175 Broad Street. 800-230-7526. www.ppsne.org. Prima CARE Transgender Clinic: Fall River, MA. Counseling, hormonal reassignment, referrals for surgery. Kishore Lakshman, MD. 508-235-0481. Seven Hills HIV Prevention & Screening: TWIST program, HIV and STI prevention and testing, partner care. 1173 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA, 508-999-4159. 310 S. Main Street, Fall River, MA, 508-235-1012. Contact Leonard Amaral, lamaral@sevenhills.org. SSTAR (Stanley Street Treatment & Resources): Counseling, drug treatment, detox, domestic violence programs, free and confidential HIV, HEP C, and STD testing, education, case management and support. MA and RI locations. 386 Stanley Street, Fall River, MA. (508) 679-5222. Project Aware (HIV/HCV); (508) 324-3561. Family Healthcare Center; (508) 675-1054. www.sstar.org. Steppingstone, Inc.: Welcome Home Medical case management program. One-on-one peer support in Somerset to Wareham area. HIV support groups available. Free and open to any HIV+ person 18+. 5 Dover Street, New Bedford, MA. (508) 984-7514. www.steppingstoneinc.org. Tranquil Mind & Wellness: Counseling, alternative healing, yoga, Pilates, meditation.109 Rhode Island Road, Lakeville, MA. (508) 9471683. www.tranquilmind.net. Thundermist Health Center: Provides HIV/AIDS services including medical care and treatment by an HIV specialist, dental care, behavioral health counseling, nutritional assessment and counseling, pharmacy consultation, free and confidential HIV testing. 450 Clinton Street, Woonsocket. Contact Philip Kane. 767-4100 ext. 3516.
RILGBT-News: Low-volume email distribution list for LGBT & AIDS news from RI. Not a discussion list. To subscribe: tinawood@cox.net. South Coast LGBTQ Network: Information & advocacy network for individuals of all ages. 774-371-0711. info@ sclgbtqnetwork.org. www.sclgbtqnetwork.org. United Way of RI Referral Line: 2-1-1 on your telephone.
INFORMATION/EDUCATION
POLITICAL & LEGAL GROUPS
The Center for Sexual Pleasure & Health: Education, pleasure, health, advocacy. Tues. -- Sat. 12 -- 6 and by appointment. 250 Main Street, Unit 1, Pawtucket. 489-5513. www.thecsph.org. Fenway Community Center LGBT Helpline: Support, information and referrals. Fenway Community Health Center, Boston. Open daily 6-11pm. (617) 267-9001 or 888-340-452 GLBT National Help Center Hotline: Local resources nationwide provided by social services agency. 888-843-4564. www.glbtnationalhelpcenter.org. Newport Out: LGBT website for Newport. www.newportout.com.
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 128 Dorrance Street, Suite 400, Providence. 831-7171. riaclu.org. Amnesty International OUTfront: Program to campaign globally for LGBTQ human rights. (212)807-8400. Cvohs18904@ yahoo.com. www.amnestyusa.org. Brown University Queer Alliance: Student advocacy and support organization. queer@brown.edu. Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): LGBT/HIV legal info hotline. Weekdays 1:30-4:30pm. 30 Winter Street, Suite 800, Boston, MA. (617) 436-1350 or (800) 455-GLAD. gladlaw@ glad.org www.GLAD.org. Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall Street, Suite 1500, NY. (212) 809-8585. www.lambdalegal.org. Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD): Advocates for LGBT causes. lawyersforequality@gmail.com.
NIGHTLIFE The Alley Cat Providence: Downtown neighborhood bar. Monday-Thursday 3pm-1am, Friday 3pm-2am, Saturday 2pm2am, Sunday 2pm-1am. 19 Snow Street, Providence. 272-6369. Bobby’s Place: Dancing, pool, video lounge, karaoke. SundayWednesday 5pm-1am, Thursday-Saturday 5pm-2am. 62 Weir Street, Taunton, MA. (508) 824-9997. www.bobbysplacema.com. Brooklyn Coffee Tea House: 209 Douglas Ave., Providence: public/private venue for music, art, film screenings, weddings, showers, etc. RHODYWOOD@yahoo.com; 359-0192. Club Body Center: Gay men’s sauna. Membership required. One-day pass available. Open 24hr. 257 Weybosset Street, Providence. 274-0298. www.cbcresorts.com. The Dark Lady: Downtown bar and nightclub. TuesdayThursday 9pm-1am, Friday & Saturday 9pm-3am, Sunday 9pm1am. 17 Snow Street, Providence. 272-6369. EGO: Providence’s newest gay nightlife performance/event space. Sunday and Thursday 9pm-1am, Friday and Saturday 10pm-3am, 73 Richmond St, Providence. 383-1208. www.egopvd.com. Mirabar: Downtown bar and nightclub. Monday-Thursday 3pm-1am, Friday and Saturday 3pm-2am, Sunday 3pm-1am. 15 Elbow Street, Providence. 331-6761. www.mirabar.com. Providence Eagle: Leather, Levi, bear cruise bar. MondayThursday 2pm-1am, Friday 2pm-2am, Saturday-Sunday 12pm2am. 124 Snow Street, Providence. 421-1447. The Stable: Downtown video bar. No cover. Monday-Thursday 2pm-1am, Friday 2pm-2am, Saturday 12pm-2am, Sunday 12pm1am. 125 Washington Street, Providence. 272-6950.
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National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues. info@ nlgja.org, www.nlgja.org. The Next Thing (TNT): Political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. 863-3062. tnt@ brown.edu. RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: Hate crime awareness training program. www.calloutprejudiceri.org RI Socialist Action: 952-5385, adgagneri@gmail.com. Spanish: 351-3514, walsil@cox.net. RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations, and credit. 180 Westminster Street, 3rd floor, Providence. 222-2662 TTY: 222-2664, richr.ri.gov. Scouts for Equality: An organization composed largely of Boy Scouts of America alumni dedicated to ending the BSA’s ban on gay members and leaders. Contact Carol Crowther. ccrowther1@ gmail.com. Facebook.com/riscoutsforequality. Servicemembers Legal Defense Network: Serving LGBT military personnel and veterans. PO Box 65301, Washington DC. (202) 328-3244. or (800) 538-7418. sldn@sldn.org. www.sldn.org.
RELIGIOUS & SPIRITUAL
All Saints Memorial Church: 674 Westminster Street, Providence. 751-1747. asmcri@verizon.net. www.allsaintsmemorial.org. Amicable Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming. Pastor William Sterrett. Sunday 10am. 3736 Main Road, Tiverton. 624-4611. amicablechurch@aol.com, www.amicablechurch.org. Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists: robin@awab.org, www.awab.org. Barrington Congregational Church: UCC. “The white church.” Sundays 10am. 461 County Road, Barrington. 246-0111. office@bccucc.org, www.bccucc.org. Bell Street Chapel: Unitarian Universalist. A Welcoming Congregation. Sundays 10am. 5 Bell Street, Providence. 273-5678. www.bellstreetchapel.org. Beneficent Congregational Church: UCC.An Open & Affirming congregation in the heart of Providence. Sundays 10am. 300 Weybosset Street, Providence. 331-9844. BeneficentChurchUCC@ gmail.com, www.beneficentchurch.org. Berean Baptist Church: A safe and welcoming place for all God’s children. Sunday 10am. 474 Chapel Street, Harrisville. 568-5411. bereanbaptist@verizon.net. www.bereanri.net. Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown: LGBTQ early dementia support group. Contact Amy. Sundays 10:30am. 200 Turner Road, Middletown. 847-6181, www.middletownmethodist.com. Central Congregational Church: UCC. An Opening & Affirming Congregation. Sundays 10:30am. 296 Angell Street, Providence. 331-1960. www.centralchurch.us. Channing Memorial Church: Unitarian Universalist. A Welcoming Congregation. Sundays 10am. 135 Pelham Street, Newport. 846-0643. administrator@channingchurch.org. www.channingchurch.org. The Chapel of the Holy Spirit: Independent Old Catholic. Fr. Jakob Lazarus. Sunday 9am and 6pm. 155 Douglas Avenue, Providence. 413-4821. www.holyparaclete.org. Chapel Street Congregational Church UCC: Open & Affirming.
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185 Chapel St., Lincoln, RI. 722-7934. www.chapelstreetucc.com. Charter Oak Grove ADF: An Open and Welcoming Congregation of Neo-pagan Druids in CT. charteroakadf@gmail.com, www.charteroakadf.org. Christ Church in Lonsdale: 1643 Lonsdale Avenue, Lincoln. Services 8am and 10:30am.725-1920.office@christchurchlincoln.org. www.christchurchlincoln.org. Church of the Ascension, 390 Pontiac Ave., Cranston, RI 02910. Sundays at 10am. 461-5811. www.ascensioncranston.org. Church of the Epiphany: A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. 1336 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence. 434-5012. info@epiphanyep.org, www.epiphanyep.org. Church of the Redeemer, a Welcoming Episcopal church. 655 Hope St., Providence. www.redeemerprovidence.org. office@ redeemerprovidence.org. Rev. Patrick Campbell, 331-0678. Concordia Center for Spiritual Living: A diverse community welcoming all spiritual paths to God. Sunday Celebration 9:15am. 292 W. Shore Rd., Warwick. Rev. Ian Taylor, 732-1552. info@concordiachurchri.com. www.ConcordiaCSL.com. Edgewood Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming. Service 10am. 1788 Broad Street, Cranston. 461-1344. office@edgewoodchurchri.org. www.edgewoodchurchri.org. Emmanuel Episcopal Church: Sundays 8 and 9:30am. 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland. 658-1506. office@emmanuelri.org. www.emmanuelri.org. First Unitarian Church: A welcoming congregation. Sunday 10:30am. 1 Benevolent Street, Providence. 421-7970. admin@firstunitarianprov.org, www.firstunitarianprov.org. First Unitarian Church: Service 11am. 71 8th Street, New Bedford, MA. (508) 994-9686. admin@uunewbedford.org, www.uunewbedford.org. First Universalist Society: UU. Welcoming congregation. Samegender weddings. 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin, MA. (508) 5285348. fusf@verizon.net, www.fusf.org. Foxboro Universalist Church: UUA. Service 10am. 6 Bird Street, Foxboro, MA. 508-543-4002. chair@uufoxborough.org. www. uufoxborough.org. Grace Episcopal Church in Providence: 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225. hello@gracechurchprovidence.org. www. gracechurchprovidence.org. Hopedale Unitarian Parish: Sundays 10:30 am. 65 Hopedale St., Hopedale, MA. www.hopedaleunitarian.org, 508-473-0745. Rev. Tony Lorenzen. Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation. Pastor Sandra Demmler D’Amico. 647 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2898. www.immanuellc.org. Interweave at Channing Memorial UU Church: Organization for the spiritual, political and social well-being of LGBTQ persons, and their allies, confronting oppression. 135 Pelham Street, Newport. 846-0643. Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd: A “Reconciling in Christ” congregation (Welcoming). 3383 Old North Rd., Kingston, RI. Sundays 9 am. Pastor Mary Hansen-Joyce. 789-7776; office@ goodshepherdri.org. Mathewson St. Church: United Methodist. 134 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-8900. MathewsonStUMC@gmail.com. Mercy of God Community: Christian, inclusive religious order. mercycomm@yahoo.com, www.mgc.org. Murray Unitarian Universalist Church: Marriage and commitment ceremonies for all. Rev. Bob McKetchnie. 505 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org.
Newman Congregational Church: Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford. 434-4742. www.newmanucc.org. Newport Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming. Rev. Hayes and Rev. Baker. 73 Pelham Street, Newport. 849-2238. Park Place Congregational Church: 71 Park Place, Pawtucket. 726-2800. office@ppucc.necoxmail.com, www.parkplaceucc.com. Pilgrim Lutheran Church: An inclusive congregation. Sundays 8 and 9:30am. 1817 Warwick Avenue, Warwick. 739-2937. parishasst@pilgrimlutheranri.org, pilgrimlutheranri.jimdo.com. Pilgrim United Church of Christ: Open and Affirming. 635 Purchase Street, New Bedford, MA. (508)-997-9086. Providence Presbyterian Church: 500 Hope St., Providence. Service 10 am. 861-1136. www.provpresri.org. provpresri@ verizon.net. The Pub Church: An Open & Affirming church that meets in a pub. Location may change. Saturday 5pm. The Dugout, 722 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA. thepubchurch@gmail.com. Riverside Church: UCC.15 Oak Avenue, Riverside. Service 10am. 433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com. St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 15 Lower College Road, Kingston. 783-2153. Sundays 8am and 10am. StAugustinesChurch@necoxmail.com, www.staugustineuri.org. St. James Church: Episcopal. 474 Fruit Hill Avenue, North Providence. 353-2079. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: Sundays 8 and 10am. 50 Orchard Avenue, Providence. 751-2141. StMartinsNB.Secretary@gmail.com, www.stmartinsprov.org. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: Welcoming Church. Monthly LGBT Eucharist. 136 Rivet Street, New Bedford, MA. (508)9948972. stmartins1887@comcast.com, www.stmartinsma.org. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church: Sundays 9am. 50 Park Place, Pawtucket. 728-4300. office@stpaulspawtucket.org, www.stpaulspawtucket.org. St. Paul’s Church: A welcoming Episcopal church. Sundays 9am. 2679 East Main Street, Portsmouth. 683-1164. stpaulsportsmouthri. org. St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church: 25 Pomona Avenue, Providence. 272-9649.stpanda25@verizon.net. www.stpeters-standrews.org. Saint Therese Old Catholic Church: Open & Affirming. Fr. David Martins. Sunday 10:30am. 1500 Main St., W. Warwick, RI 02893. 680-9076. stocc134@gmail.com, www.saintthereseocc.org. Second Congregational Church of Attleboro: UCC. Open & Affirming. 50 Park Street, Attleboro, MA. Sunday 10am. (508) 2224677. office2nd@verizon.net. www.attleborosecondchurch.org. Seekonk Congregational Church: Open & Affirming. Sundays 9 and 10:30am. Rev. Joy Utter, 600 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, MA. (508) 336-9355. sccucc@verizon.net. www.scc-ucc.com. Soka Gakkai: Buddhist association for peace, culture, and education. Contact for weekly meetings in Providence. 930 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston. (617) 264-2000. www.sgi-usa.org. Temple Agudas Achim: Reconstructionist congregation. 901 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2243. office@agudasma.org, www.agudasma.org. Temple Beth-El: Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Avenue, Providence. 331-6070. info@temple-beth-el.org, www.temple-beth-el.org.
Temple Emanu-El: A welcoming Conservative congregation. Rabbi Wayne Franklin. 99 Taft Avenue, Providence. 331-1616. info@teprov.org, www.teprov.org. Temple Habonim: A warm, Welcoming Reform congregation. Rabbi Andrew Klein. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. 2456536. office@templehabonim.org, www.templehabonim.org. Temple Sinai: A Welcoming Reform temple. Rabbi Jeff Goldwasser, 30 Hagen Avenue, Cranston. 942-8350. webmaster@templesinairi.org, www.templesinairi.org. Unitarian Church in Fall River: Sunday 10:30am. 309 North Main Street, Fall River, MA. 508-678-9700. office@unitarianchurchfr.org, www.unitarianchurchfr.org. Unitarian Universalist Society of Fairhaven: Service 10:30am. 102 Green Street, Fairhaven, MA. (508) 992-7081. www.uufairhaven. org. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of South County: 27 North Road, Peace Dale. 783-4170 or Val 789-7282. uucscri@ yahoo.com. www.uusouthcountyri.org. United Congregational Church, 524 Valley Rd., Middletown RI 02842. A Welcoming congregation. Sunday, 10 am. www.UCCMiddletown.org. 849-5444. Westminster Unitarian Universalist Church: A UUA Welcoming Congregation. 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich. 884-5933. www.westminsteruu.org.
SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS Bisexual Resource Center: PO Box 170796, Boston, MA. (617) 4249595. brc@bicresource.net www.biresource.net. Biversity Boston: Mixed-gender social events for Boston and the surrounding area. (617) 424-9595. biversity-subscribe@biversity.org, www.biversity.org. Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches and quarterly publication, Bi Women Quarterly. www.biwomenboston.org. Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGSYA): 56 Barnstable Road, Hyannis, MA. (508) 778-7744. info@cisgsya.org, www.cigsya.org. Communisong: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. www.communisong.net. Gay Men’s Social Group: FirstTuesdays,6 -- 9pm,Seven Hills Behavioral Health, 1177 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford, MA. Refreshments. Info: Lenny Amaral, 508-999-4159 or lamaral@sevenhills.org. Imperial Court of RI at Providence: Drag and non-drag performers raise funds for local charities. All welcome to general membership meetings on first Monday at Dark Lady, 17 Snow Street, Providence. icri.prov@gmail.com. www.icriprov.org. Mixed Borders Gardening Group: Gardening and more. Monthly meetings, all welcome. Mixedborders@cox.net. www.mixedborders.com. Opera Club: Enjoy hearing and attending. Last Sunday of each month at 1pm. BrettCornellpi4@aol.com. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus: New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and non-singing volunteers welcome. Monday 7-9:30pm. Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset Street, Providence. www.provgmc.org. Queer Book Club: 3rd Wednesday, 7pm. Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence, queerbookclub@gmail.com.
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RI Association of Gay Professionals: Networking and philanthropy. www.riagp.com. RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children. Contact Melanie. 464-2288. saphicangel120@yahoo.com. RI Pride: Open house 4th Wednesdays. Festival & Parade 3rd Saturday in June. Office: 1055 Westminster St., Providence 02903. Mail: PO Box 1082, Providence, 02903. 467-2130. info@prideri.com, www.prideri.com. RI Prime Timers: Social and networking group for older gay and bi men. Second Sunday. Call Steve, 996-3010. www.riprimetimers.org. RI Skeptics Society: Yearning to talk with someone rational? Refreshing discussion. Fourth Saturday. East Providence restaurant location. www. meetup.com/skeptics-133/. RI Women’s Association: Lesbian social group. 21+. Dances & events. www.riwa.net. SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Advocacy, education, social events for LGBT seniors. Steering Committee meets first Saturdays at Church of theTransfiguration, 1665 Broad St., Cranston 02905. All members and friends welcome. Write us at the church or sageriinfo@gmail.com. Facebook: SAGERhode-Island. www.sage-ri.org. .SEMASSMEN: Social group for GBQ men of southeastern MA & RI to foster strong friendships. Semassmen-subscribe@ yahoogroups.com. rlevass@yahoo.com. South Coast Social Club for Gay & Bisexual Men: Social and networking opportunities for gay & bisexual men in S.E. Mass. www. southeastsocialclub.com. Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for GLBT vintage and specialty car enthusiasts. www.yankeelcc.com.
SPORTS & RECREATION PrideSports Boston: Network of twenty-plus gay sports leagues/teams in Boston area. www.pridesportsboston.com. Boston Gay BASKETBALL League: ksg.bgbl@gmail.com, www.bgbl.com. BOATING: Yankee Cruising Club, New England’s club for LGBTQ boaters. www.yankeecruising.org. yankeecruisingclub@ gmail.com. Keith (508) 423-6123. Big Gay Al’s Duckpin BOWLING League: Proceeds benefit AIDS causes. Tuesday 6:30pm. 1463 Atwood Avenue, Town Hall Lanes, Johnston. Contact Frank Ferri. 831-6940.www. bgalbowling.com. www.townhalllanes.com. FIELD HOCKEY: Teamworks Somerset, 732 Lee’s River Ave., Somerset, MA. New season every 10 weeks. (508-676-3956) info@teamworkssomerset.com. GALA Bowling League: Sundays 5:50 p.m., E. Providence Lanes, 80 Newport Ave., E. Providence. Season begins in Aug. View us on Facebook or email galabowling1990@gmail.com. FLAG (For Lesbians And Gays) FOOTBALL: Bostonbased recreational football club. All skill levels are encouraged to participate. Saturday mornings in the fall and spring. www. flagflagfootball.com. Boston Pride HOCKEY: www.bostonpridehockey.org. Providence Gay Flag Football League: Registration opens Feb. 4, season starts April. Visit www.pvdgffl.org or write dgosley@gmail.com. Rondeaus KICKBOXING: 272-5425. www. rondeauskickboxing.com.
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Main Street MARTIAL ARTS: Non-profit. Welcoming dojo and community center. 1282 North Main Street, Providence. 274-7672.www.mainstma.org. Chiltern Mountain Club: OUTDOOR recreation club in New England. events@chiltern.org. www.chiltern.org. Boston Gay ROWERS: Worldwide online community for gay and lesbian rowers, coxies, coaches, and race officials. www.glrf.org. Boston Ironsides RUGBY Football: www.bostonironsides.org. Providence Women’s RUGBY Club: Competitive and recreational. www.providencerugby.com. Frontrunners Rhode Island RUNNING Group: Running and walking group. Newcomers welcome. Meet at the end of Blackstone Boulevard at Hope Street, Providence. Thursday 6pm. Contact Brian. 751-7643. bripm@cox.net, frontrunnersri@gmail.com. Frontrunners Boston RUNNING Group: Morning walk/ run along the Charles River. Saturdays,10am. Club Cafe, 209 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA. www.frontrunnersboston.org. OutRyders SKIING: New England’s largest gay and lesbian ski and snowboard club. www.outryders.org. Boston Strikers SOCCER Club: Non-profit social organization to learn and improve soccer skills in a relaxed, congenial environment. www.bostonstrikers.com. Renaissance City SOFTBALL League: New players and boosters always welcome. www.providencesoftball.org. Beantown SOFTBALL League: Friendly competition. 27 teams in four divisions of play: competitive, intermediate, and recreational. (617) 297-7490. www.beantownsoftball.com. LANES (Liquid Assets New England SWIMMING): Fitness and/or competition. (617) 937-5858. www.swim-lanes.org. TENNIS-4-All: Boston area tennis organization. www. tennis4all.org. Cambridge Boston VOLLEYBALL Association: Players of all skill levels welcome. secretary@cbvolleyball.net www.gayvolleyball.net. Ocean State Pride VOLLEYBALL League: Adult coed indoor league following USVBA rules. No try-outs. Fee applies. Kent County YMCA, 900 Centerville Road, Warwick. ospvolleyball@gmail.com. East Coast WRESTLING Club: (617)937.5858 x6. ecwc@juno.com. www.eastcoastwrestlingclub.org.
STUDENTS & YOUTH Bristol Community College The Lambda Connection: (TLC@ BCC) Robert Delaleu, Advisor; BCC-G118, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA (774)357-4056. Brown University Queer Alliance: Umbrella organization at Brown University for LGBTQ groups. 863-3062. queer@brown.edu or lgbtq@brown.edu. CCRI Gender Equity Initiative: SafeZone & Trans* 101 training. Support, info for LGBTQ people and allies. www.ccri.edu/genderequity. CCRI Triangle Alliance: an LGBTQQ student-run group at CCRI, on the Flanagan, Liston, and Knight campuses. www.ccri.edu/triangle/. Home to Hope: Support for housing-insecure LGBT youth 13 -- 24. Crisis intervention, medical and other services. At YPI (743 Westminster St., Prov.) and Mathewson St. Church (134 Mathewson St., Prov.) varying days and times. For info/appointments: ayanna@ rihomeless.org or 484-7720. LGBT National Youth Talkline: 800-246-7743. Private one-to-one chat and info on local resources.
Peer Listening Line: Youth-staffed hotline for GLBT youth. Support, info and referrals. 5-10pm. Fenway Community Health Center, Boston, MA. (617) 267-9001 or (800) 399-PEER. www.fenwayhealth.org. Queer & Trans Thursdays: 6-8pm. Space for LGBTQ and heterosexual youth (24 and under) of color to foster coalition-building and organize to address intersections of oppressions. 669 Elmwood Ave., Rm. B7, Providence. www.prysm.us. 383-7450. Rhode Island College LGBTQ+ Office: works towards inclusion of gender, gender identity/expression and sexual orientation in all appropriate aspects of campus life. 401-456-9033 www.ric.edu/lgbtq Salve Regina University – The Alliance: 100 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport. Contact: Benjamin Mead, benjamin.mead@salve.edu S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Square, Providence. 865-1631. shepard@providence.edu. The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks. (866)4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386). thetrevorproject.org. University of RI LGBTIQ2: Alumni association. 874-5808. gsimonelli@uri.edu. URI LGBTQ Center: A cultural department for students, faculty and staff. Florence Badejo. 874-2894. Youth Pride Inc.: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13--23. Tues. -- Fri. 2 -- 8pm. The Way Out peer support group Thurs. 4pm. Gender Spectrum support group Tues. 4pm. Visit our website for full calendar of events. 743 Westminster St., Providence. 421-5626. info@youthprideri.org. www.youthprideri.org.
SUPPORT GROUPS & SOCIAL SERVICES
Abuse Victims and Survivors: Support on phone for LGBTQ victims & survivors of partner abuse. Confidential peer-led groups. Hotline: (617) 742-4911. TTY: (617) 2274911. advocate@tnlr.org. Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help. Jewish Family Service, 959 North Main Street, Providence. Contact Betsy Alper. 331-5437. www.adoptionoptions.org. Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center: Offering resources for victims of domestic violence. 723-3057. www.bvadvocacycenter.org. Child & Family Services: Counseling, young parent support, adoption, more. LGBT groups beginning July. Open six days. 66 Troy St., Fall River, MA. (508) 676-5708. www.child-familyservices.org Community Care Alliance: Stipend, assistance, training provided by Family Resources Community Action. 2356095. www.famresri.org. Community Care Alliance-Agape Providence: Transitional housing, drop-in center, testing, intensive case management, counseling, peer support for people living with HIV/AIDS. 292 Elmwood Ave, Providence. 572-3800. www.communitycareri.org Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group. Boston first Thursday 7-9pm. compassftm@gmail.com. www.compassftm.org. Crossroads RI Hotline: (800) 367-2700. Day One: Counseling & legal aid for victims of sexual assault/ abuse & incest. 24hr hotline. (800) 494-8100. 421-4100. www.dayoneri.org.
Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County: Support, court advocacy, counseling, safe home, info for women and men in abusive or controlling relationships. 24hr free and confidential helpline. 782-3990 or toll free 800-494-8100, www.dvrcsc.org. Family Service of RI: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing adoptive families. Family Service of RI. Contact Gregary Wright. 331-1350 ext. 3305. www.familyserviceri. org. Foster parents needed: For newborn to age six. 276-4300. www.childrensfriendri.org. Foster Parents wanted: Devereux Therapeutic Foster Care offers generous tax-free stipend, free comprehensive training, 24-hour support. To make a difference, call 734-9680. www.devereuxri.org. Gay Fathers of Greater Boston: Support. 738 Main St. #323, Waltham, MA. (781) 333-8429. info@ gayfathersboston.org, www.gayfathersboston.org. Gay Men’s HIV+ Social Group: Third Tuesdays, 6 -9pm. Refreshments. Seven Hills Behavioral Health, 1177 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford, MA. Info: Lenny Amaral, 508-999-4159 or email lamaral@sevenhills.org. Gay Officers Action League (GOAL)/New England: Law enforcement officers (sworn & civilian), fire, rescue & publicly employed EMS. Confidential. P.O. Box 171587, Boston, MA 02117. www.newenglandgoal.org. On Facebook at NewEnglandGOAL. Gay Share: Coming Out? Gay men’s support group. No fee. Wednesday 7:30pm. Contact Tom or Mike. 369-9448. info@gayshare.org, www.gayshare.org. LGBT Grief Support: Monthly meetings, usually 3rd Wed. 3:330 -- 5pm at Hope Hospice, 1085 No. Main St., Providence. Center for Hope & Healing (888-528-9077). Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline and social networks for crisis and suicide prevention. 24/7. (866) 4-U-Trevor. HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group: Refreshments served. AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Avenue, Providence. 521-3603. New members contact Scott. 640-3108. LGBTQ+ Pregnancy & Parenting Group: Free support group for people (partnered or not) parenting or considering it. First Saturdays at Open Circle in East Providence. Visit Facebook or email LGBTQpregnancyandparenting@gmail. com. Mantalk of S.E. Mass: Thurs. eves. in Taunton, MA. Social support for gay, bi, and questioning men from Mass. and RI. Confidential, drug- and alcohol-free. Find us on Facebook and MeetUp. MentalHelp.net: National directory of inpatient treatment options for those with substance abuse problems. www. mentalhelp.net/care/substance-abuse/ri/. Partner Support Group at Fenway Health: A ten-week support group with the purpose of building community and connections for anyone who identifies as non-trans, ages 18+, and is in a relationship with a trans* person(s). 1340 Boylston Street, Boston, MA. Contact Sarah Eley, LICSW. 857313-6551. seley@fenwayhealth.org. PFLAG (Parents, & Friends of Lesbians & Gays): Attleboro Chapter serves Southeast Mass. Third Wednesday 6:45 p.m., Second Congregational Church, 50 Park St. (side door). email pflagattleboro@gmail.com. Greater Providence Chapter serves all R.I. First Wednesday at 6:45 p.m., Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571. PFLAGprovidence@gmail.com. www. pflagprovidence.org.
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Project RENEW: Support, employment services, HIV prevention for male and female sex workers. Amos House, 415 Friendship St., Providence. 272-0220.Trans support group meets Thurs. Info: transoutreachpwr@gmail.com. Queer Transformative Roots (QTR): Queer & trans people of color organize campaigns to support stability for our communities. 669 Elmwood Ave., Suite B13, Providence 02907. www.prysm.us. 383-7450. Rape Crisis Center for S.E. Mass: New Hope, Inc. Advocacy, shelter, services for domestic abuse survivors. Hotline (800) 323-HOPE. Office (508)226-4015. RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence: 24hr helpline: (800) 494-8100. 467-9940. RI Rainbow Support Group: For people with disabilities who identify as LGBTQ. Last Tuesday. 98 Rolfe Street, Cranston. 6-7:30pm. Contact Ken Renaud. 785-2100. Samaritans: 24hr hotline for suicidal, lonely, despairing, depressed. (800) 365-4044. 272-4044 (RI only). www. samaritansri.org. Seven Hills Behavioral Health: HIV Prevention and Screening. 310 South Main Street, Fall River, MA. (508) 2351012. T.W.I.S.T. (508) 672-0378. Sexual Health Education & Advocacy Program: HIV, sexual wellness, domestic violence risk reduction. Free, confidential, bilingual (Spanish). No caller ID used. Calls blocked for safety. 861-6191 ext. 121. Sojourner House: Call for confidential support group. Support, shelter, advocacy and information for people in abusive relationships. Including specific LGBT services. No caller ID used. Outgoing calls blocked for safety. 24hr helpline. 765-3232. 861-6191. Office 861-6191. www. sojournerri.org.
St. Mary’s Home for Children: Sexual abuse treatment for children. 450 Fruit Hill Ave., No. Providence. www. smhfc.org. Adam Cable, 353-3900. Straight Spouses: Groups and online support. www.straightspouse.org. TGI Network of RI: Support, advocacy for transgender, transsexual, gender-variant and/or intersex people. Borderlands peer group 1st & 3d Tues. and 1st & 3d Sat. of the month. Location & information: 441-5058. info@ tginetwork.org. www.tginetwork.org. Trans* Partners New England: Gives romantic partners of transgender people 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. First Wednesday 6:30-8:30pm. Providence. Location unpublished for privacy. partners@ tginetwork.org. Trans* Youth Family Allies: Support for gender-variant and transgender children ages 3-18. info@imatyfa.org, www.imatyfa.org. Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA): Growing organization to address the concerns of fair treatment of transgender veterans and active duty service members. www.tavausa.org. Women’s Resource Center of Newport and Bristol Counties: Offering services to victims of domestic violence. 846-5263. www.wrcnbc.org.
After all, our city was founded on the notion that you should be able to do what you want to do and think what you want to think. We take that to heart. We have so much to do, see, eat, play, create, watch — the combinations are endless. It’s up to you.
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1.800.233.1636
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Felicitations By Felicia Nimue Ackerman
PEOPLE OF THE PRESENT AGE
People of the present age, Reading this indignant page, Know that in a former time Same-sex love was thought a crime.
(The first verse of this poem is adapted from “A Little Girl Lost" by William Blake.)
Keep that time from coming back. Make our country stay on track. Trump is hardly on our side. We'll combat him with our Pride.
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