Options Magazine Dec 2019/Jan 2020 by Options Magazine

options December 2019 / January 2020

ARE YOU OUT OF OPTIONS? ART HEALS THE VAPING CRISIS COMBATING HATE CRIME optionsri.org 11 Rhode Island and Southern New England's LGBTQ Communitywww.optionsri.org Magazine Since 1982

OVERDOSE DOESN’T MEAN IT’S OVER NALOXONE SAVES LIVES. GET IT AT ANY PHARMACY.

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PreventOverdoseRI.org

December 2019 / January 2020

IN THIS ISSUE: 23

16 5

From the Editor

5 Advertisers 6 Jazzmen Lee-Johnson 8 Calendar

News Briefs

The Vaping Crisis in the LGBTQ Community

News from TGI Network

Out on the Town

Are You Out of OPTIONS?

2 0

Hate Crime Training Offered to RI Law Enforcement

YPI's 25th Anniversary Gala Raises $25,000

Old Lesbians Organizing for Change in RI

Working OUT in 2020

Report from SAGE/RI

Transosaurus Rex

Charlie Hall Comic Featuring Mayor Pete

Felicitations

28 Resources

For our free online edition or to subscribe for home delivery ($25/year suggested donation) visit optionsri.org, email subscriptions@optionsri.org, or write to: Options Magazine, PO Box 6406, Providence, RI 02940. ÂŠ 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 February/March 2020 issue must be delivered by January 17.

optionsri.org

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December 2019 / January 2020

options

From the Editor-in-Chief

Rhode Island’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community news source since 1982.

Dear Reader,

December 2019/January 2020

I was instantly intrigued when I met Jazzmen Lee-Johnson while having the privilege of speaking on a panel with her as part of Trinity Repertory’s America Too project. Who knew the RI Department of Health (RIDOH) had an artist-inresidence (who happened to be queer)? I had to learn more. In this issue, we give you a taste of the wide breadth of Lee-Johnson’s fascinating and impactful work (p. 6), and direct you to her full interview at optionsri.org to dig deeper. Jonathan Lucero McKinney is a savvy writer with a passion for health issues, who pitched a story about vaping in the LGBTQ+ community. His knack for research and legwork lent a lot to the piece, which takes us from the 1990s tobacco industry SCUM campaign targetting LGBTQ people to a barstool at the Mirabar today (p. 12). With these two stories in the works, I figured we had better reach to RIDOH for an issue sponsorship. Thankfully they were receptive, or we’d have halved our print run. This was a natural partnership, as the theme of health runs through every issue of Options. Our content often addresses disparate LGBTQ health issues, and thanks to RIDOH, even some of our paid advertisements offer access to programs with solutions (pp. 2, 25, 36). November 3’s RI Pride Honors event was the highlight of my professional career. In my Pyramid of Pride acceptance speech, I said that I’d gotten there simply by saying “Yes” when asked and sticking around. If we’re lucky, these three new Options team members who’ve recently said “Yes” to critical roles will stick around, because they’re each doing a fantastic job: Advertising Manager Daniel Restrepo, Designer Koki Mendis, and Calendar Editor Galen Auer. This is a very special issue of Options Magazine. Heart, soul, sweat, and sleepless nights went into it from team members new and old. We hope to top it next issue, if given the chance through your donation to keep us going. Flip to the centerfold (p. 18) to find the many reasons you should give today. This issue is special enough without it being our last. In solidarity, Jen Stevens

Jen and Rich Hite at RI Pride Honors. Photo by Kevin Fletcher.

Advertisers 4

AIDS Project RI

Blue Cross Blue Shield of RI

Boston Pride Hockey: Rhode Island

NewportOUT

Campus Fine Wines

PFLAG Providence

Law Office of Dawn Euer

Providence Flea: Holiday Markets

Exeter Job Corps Academy

Reverend Dr. Donnie Anderson

Firex: Fire Extinguisher Services & Sales

RI Victims of Crime Helpline

Friends of Toto

2, 25, 36

RI Department of Health

Industrial Revolution CrossFit

Insperiors: Inspired Interiors

Meeting Street: The Grace School

RI Women’s Association

Volume XXXVIII, Issue 4

Editor-in-Chief Jen Stevens jen@optionsri.org Resources Editor Myra Shays resources@optionsri.org Calendar Editor Galen Auer calendar@optionsri.org Copy Editors Rex LeBeau, Ricky Mejia, Abigail Nilsson, Carson Pavao, Myra Shays Graphic & Layout Design Koki Mendis Advertising Manager Daniel Restrepo advertising@optionsri.org Intern Abigail Nilsson Contributors Felicia Nimue Ackerman, Galen Auer, Tiffani Carcieri, Marty Cooper, Cathy Gorman, Charlie Hall, Ethan Huckel, Rex LeBeau, Jonathan Lucero McKinney, Mev Miller, Myra Shays, Jen Stevens, Kim Stowell Photographers Jen Bonin, Paul Martin Directors Ashley Delgado, Dr. Mike Marrapodi, Arthur Snow

Contact Us info@optionsri.org PO Box 6406 Providence, RI 02940 401-217-3939 www.optionsri.org Cover: Jazzmen Lee-Johnson Photo by: Livia Radwanski

optionsri.org

Spotlight Interview:

Jazzmen Lee-Johnson

by Jen Stevens

Visual artist, composer, and curator Jazzmen Lee-Johnson is a Brown University and RISD graduate currently serving as the Rhode Island Department of Health’s (RIDOH) Artist-in-Residence. Her extensive body of work explores critical race theory, the Atlantic slave trade, Black feminist theory, museum interpretation, and new media studies. Options checked in with LeeJohnson, who identifies as queer, to learn about her role with RIDOH. What health disparities have you focused on while serving as the RI Department of Health's Artist-inResidence? Disparities across race, class, ability, gender, and sexuality, are all connected, and can all be linked to our health. I am committed to engaging, inserting, and asserting marginal bodies through the arts as a means to mend societal fissures across these intersections of identities and experiences. I am working with the offices of Minority Health, Refugee Health, Comprehensive Cancer Control, Asthma, and the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) working group to address health disparities around trauma, nutrition, quality of life/palliative care, environmental effects on health, sexual health awareness, and building with, sustaining, and helping to support community. And lastly addressing the overall dissemination of health information. Around nutrition I am launching a graphic novel cookbook that connects refugee and non-refugee youth with elders. Many refugees begin to acquire US health issues: high blood pressure, diabetes, stress-related smoking and drinking, weight gain, etc. Refugee youth especially struggle with nutrition because they often reject food and recipes from their culture in hopes to assimilate by eating American food. This project aims to connect folks to each other and their culture through cooking, and uses the graphic novel medium to preserve the

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stories and experiences around food. I am working with Asthma [on] a public art project that will investigate the historical connections between the Port of Providence slavery/ colonialism, relationships to tribes, and the contemporary combination of concentrated poverty, housing quality, air quality, and noxious land use. I am working with the SOGI working group to create sustainable connections across generations of LGBTQ community partners. Through a series of roundtables and artistic collaborations, I hope to develop visual material around sexual health awareness, gender identity understanding, and perhaps a float for the Pride parade. Why should art-based approaches be used as a strategy to address health inequities? Art functions in many cadences. Sometimes a feeling, a pain, an emotion can’t be articulated or processed in words. The arts gets at the interstices of our health and our daily life to process the more complex nuances of ourselves and our social systems, not only on a therapeutic level, but also as a means to communicate.

How can public agencies engage artists to help fulfill their missions? Artists are embedded in the community, and use their medium of choice to share something in a different mode. There is a disconnect and even distrust between the community and public agencies. To progress, we must create long-term community relationships utilizing multiple methods. Artists and arts can change the culture of an agency. They can literally transform the building itself (mural, hanging artwork, filling a room with music, providing arts activities to folks who occupy the agency’s building), or find new ways to engage information and different publics. Give artist a seat at the table. That is the best way that artists can help to fulfill an agency’s mission. Please visit optiosnsri.org for Lee-Johnson’s full interview to learn more about her perspective and her many fascinating arts initiatives with RIDOH. Readers are encouraged to discover Lee-Johnson’s animation, album, many visual essays, and more at her interactive website: jazzmenleejohnson.com.

Art is a way to give voice, to share stories, to disseminate information, to process trauma, to heal, to reconnect to the body; to build understanding, communication, and common language despite difference; to create campaigns, and movement that can ultimately change policy. A song can spread awareness, or soothe, or release, or build one’s lungs, amplify one’s voice, activate one’s memory. And that’s just a song. I guess what I’m saying is that art works. Art is truly a transformative, powerful, underutilized, optimal tool. And we need effective tools to make real change.

December 2019 / January 2020

Photo by Livia Radwanski

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optionsri.org

CALENDAR December Sun 1

World AIDS Day.

Mon 2 12.6 12.6 Poppy Poppy Champlin Champlin

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. Guys as Dolls Christmas Drag Extravaganza, 7pm. The Comedy Connection, 39 Warren Avenue, East Providence. LaDiva Jonz, Jacqueline DiMera, Vi'let and Haley Star. Tix $20 at ricomedyconnection.com.

12.7 RIWA Dance

World AIDS Day Event: Communities Make the Difference, 10am-2pm. The Met, 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket. Music, refreshments, speakers, vaccinations, testing, resource tables. Hosted by the RI HIV/STI Prevention Coalition.

Mon 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 12.14 Story Time

Free Play Arcade GAYme night, 7pm1am. Free Play, 182 Pine Street, Providence. Over 115 vintage arcade games, pinball, skee ball, and drag shows. All games set to free play. 18+. $4 cover to benefit RI Pride. For more info, freeplayri.com.

Wed 4

12.15 Drag Brunch Trailer Park Girls

12.15 Kingmaker workshop Workshop

12.21 womxn's Womxn's ugly sweater party 8

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SAGE/Care workshop (Series 1, Workshop 3): Community-based Agencies, 8am-noon. Radisson Hotel, 2081 Post Road,Warwick. An initiative to improve the quality of care for LGBT older adults in Rhode Island. Health care and social service providers welcome. Registration $35 at Eventbrite.com. For more info, sageriinfo@gmail.com.

THU 5, 12, 19, 26

Frontrunners RI weekly run/walk, 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 or email frontrunnersri@gmail.com.

FRI 6

Pride on Ice & Toy Drive, 7-10pm. Bank Newport City Center, 2 Kennedy Plaza, Providence. Donate an unwrapped toy or gift card to benefit the families of Family Service RI and receive free admission; just pay the cost of skate rental. For more info, prideri.org. Poppy Champlin & Friends, 7:30-9:30pm. Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence. A night of comedy.Tix $20 at Eventbrite.com.

SAT 7

RI Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association Dance, 6:3011:30pm. The Nelson, 225 Niantic Avenue, Cranston. DJ Karen, cash bar, food menu. Members free/guests $12. For info, riwa.net.

Sun 8

One Hell of a Drag Brunch, 11am and 1pm seatings. Skyline at Waterplace, 1 Finance Way, Providence. Featuring Drag in RI, Trailer Park Girls, and Black Sheep Girls. $35 Brunch. $10 Valet. Book seats through Open Table or call 437-6480. Providence Flea Holiday Markets, 11am5pm. Waterfire Arts Center, 475 Valley Street, Providence. Vintage, artisans, makers, hot coffee, food truck, gayowned and operated. LGBTQ Action RI Planning Meeting, 3-5pm.Youth Pride, Inc., 743 Westminster Street, Providence. An advocacy organization dedicated to securing equality and justice for LGBTQ Rhode Islanders through legislative and policy advocacy. For more info, email info@ lgbtqactionri.org or join the Facebook group LGBTQActionRI. 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 11

RI Pride Annual Meeting, 6-9pm. Alderman's Chambers, Providence City Hall, 25 Dorrance St. Trans Yoga, 6:30-7:30pm. Health Equity Zone Hub, 1229 Main Street, West Warwick. For trans adults and invited guests. Free. For info, thundermisthealth. org.

THU 12

Feminist & Queer Happy Hour, 6-8:30pm. Location TBD. For details, facebook.com/ feministandqueerhappyhour. Sweet Little Variety Show, 8-10-pm. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. Featuring Avi David, Rich Hite, Kristen Minsky, Brien Lang, Dawn King, host Eva Destruction, and more. $7. 18+ unless accompanied by an adult. Food and drink available. For details, facebook.com/ sweetlittlevarietyshow

THU 12 - Sun 15

Providence Gay Men's Chorus: Feliz Navidude, 7pm/Sun. 4pm. Beneficent Congregational Church 300 Weybosset St, Providence. $25/$20 seniors. For info, provgmc.org.

December 2019 / January 2020

fri 13

Christmas with the Stars, 7:30-9:30pm. Courthouse Center for the Arts, 3481 Kingstown Road, West Kingston. World famous impersonators The Edwards Twins perform the songs of 70s and 80s superstars with live vocals. Tix $40, available at Eventbrite.com or (702) 247-1720.

sat 14

Drag Queen Story Time, 12-1pm. The Graduate Hotel, 11 Dorrance Street, Providence. Presented by the Providence Community Library featuring Miss LaDiva Jonz. Free.

sun 15

Drag Brunch, 10am. The Black Sheep, 397 Westminster Street, Providence. Hosted by Gia Devaroux, Viza D. Klein, and Jealousy Jonz. For reservations, 2745061. Providence Flea Holiday Markets, 11am5pm. Waterfire Arts Center, 475 Valley Street, Providence. Vintage, artisans, makers, hot coffee, food trucks, gayowned and operated. Holiday Drag Brunch with The Trailer Park Girls, 11am-2:30pm. Parlor Bar & Kitchen, 200 Broadway, Newport. Tix available at NewportOut.com/events: $45 brunch/$15 show only. Interweave potluck and programming, 5:30pm. Parish Hall of Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham Street, Newport. All welcome. Bring a dish to share. Interweave is Channing's group for LGBTQ people and allies. For more information, contact Rex at interweave@ channingmemorial.org. Randy Andy's Kingmaker Workshop Series Fall Recital, 7pm. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. Welcome seven new members of the Providence drag king community under the tutelage of RIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coffee milk-swilling prodigal son. Tix $10 at facebook.com/Askewprov.

THU 19

Drag Bingo: Deck the Halls Holiday Drag Bingo, 6-9pm. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Avenue, Cranston. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for our toy drive. Hosted by Haley Star and LaDiva Jonz. $20 gets you in all games with over $2,000 in cash and prizes awarded monthly. 18+. No alcohol. All funds raised benefit AIDS Care Ocean State and AIDS Project RI. For reservations, email bingo@aidscareoceanstate.org with name, number of people, and phone number.

THU 19

Trans Bowling Night, 8:30-11pm. Lang’s Bowlarama, 225 Niantic Avenue, Cranston. Free. For info, thundermisthealth.org.

fri 20

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 Pauline at 351-6700.

sat 21

Womxn's Night: Ugly Sweater Party, 8pm-midnight. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. Bust out your favorite ugly sweater and celebrate the holiday season. Partial proceeds benefit Youth Pride, Inc. 21+. $10. For more info, facebook.com/WomxnsNight.

sun 22

Trans Swim, 4-6pm. McDermott Pool, 975 Sandy Lane, Warwick. For trans adults, children, and invited guests. Free. For info, thundermisthealth.org.

wed 25

Christmas Day Movie: Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Meet at 3pm at the top of the escalators. Providence Place Mall. Free. For info, thundermisthealth. org.

January

Thu 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

sun 5

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.

mon 6, 13, 20, 27

thu 9

Sweet Little Variety Show: 10-Year Anniversary Show, 8-10-pm. Askew, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. Featuring an all-star lineup including: mentalist Rory Raven, poet Christopher Johnson, Jodi Jolt & The Volt, performance artist Tania Rocha, burlesque with Bettysioux Tailor, host Eva Destruction, and more. $7. 18+ unless accompanied by an adult. Food and drink available. For details, facebook. com/sweetlittlevarietyshow.

sat 11

Queer Womxn's GAYme Night Takeover, 8pm-12am. Free Play, 182 Pine Street, Providence. Over 115 vintage arcade games, pinball, skee ball, and drag shows. All games set to free play. 18+. $7 cover. For more info, freeplayri.com.

sun 12

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.

1.9 Sweet Little 1.9 10 YR Show Sweet Little 10 YR Show

sun 19

Interweave potluck and programming, 5:30pm. Parish Hall of Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham Street, Newport. All welcome. Bring a dish to share. Interweave is Channing's group for LGBTQ people and allies. For more information, contact Rex at interweave@ channingmemorial.org.

sun 26

Rocketman, 1-4pm. New Bedford Whaling Museum, 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, MA. Film screening as part of the New Bedford LGBTQ Winter Film Series.

1.13 PRIDE HOCKEY

Visit OptionsRI.org/calendarplus for updated event information, and Resources (pg. 28) for regularly scheduled support group meetings. Email your event information Calendar Editor Galen Auer: calendar@optionsri.org.

mon 13

Boston Pride Hockey (BPH) Game, 9pm. Meehan Auditorium, Brown University, 235 Hope Street, Providence. New England's LGBTQ+ hockey league, is expanding into Rhode Island. For info, www.bostonpridehockey.org.

1.16 Drag BINGO Bingo DRAG

wed 15

Queer Book Club, 7-9:30pm. 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.

thu 16

Drag Bingo: Mother Goose Slumber Party, 6-9pm. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Avenue, Cranston. Hosted by Haley Star and LaDiva Jonz. $20 gets you in all games with over $2,000 in cash and prizes awarded monthly. 18+. No alcohol. Theme dress encouraged. All funds raised benefit AIDS Care Ocean State and AIDS Project RI. For reservations, email bingo@ aidscareoceanstate.org with name, number of people, and phone number.

fri 17

optionsri.org

NEWS BRIEFS: identity, rather than "M" or "F," for male or female. People of any age can make this change; however, minors will need the consent of a parent or guardian to do so.

RI Pride Announces Plans for a Community Center in 2020 On November 3, at the RI Pride Honors event in Providence, RI Pride President Emeritus Joe Lazzerini called the Pride board of directors to join him on stage for a “big announcement,” revealing that the Pride team was very close to securing space for a community center set to open in fall 2020. The space is said to be around 5,000 square feet and located somewhere on Westminster Street in Providence. Attendees were urged to text PRIDERI to 44321 to donate toward the center because a donor match was in effect. Said Pride Board Secretary Tina Blenke,“We’ve dreamed of building an inviting and inclusive, safe space for us to gather, that would house not only our offices but space for gatherings and events, a library for our own history, a kitchen for home-cooked meals, a living area for computers, and soft sofas for relaxing…. Next fall, we hope to welcome everyone to help us celebrate the grand opening of the Rhode Island Pride Community Center.”

Instructions for changing birth certificates are at www.health.ri.gov. For more information, write to the Deputy Director: Ana.Novais@ health.ri.gov, or call 222-5117.

New England Patriots Sponsor PVD Gay Flag Football League The New England Patriots announced in late September that they are sponsoring the Providence Gay Flag Football League (PVDGFFL) to make the league more affordable. PVDGFFL Commissioner Duane Gosley said this news was "fantastic." Gosley noted that there are 162 participants: 85% are LGBTQ, 20% are women, and 20% are people of color. For more information, visit www.pvdgffl.org.

RI Foundation Awards Grants to LGBTQ Groups

RI Department of Health Accepts Non-binary Birth Certificates As of October 1, people born in Rhode Island who identify as nonbinary can get birth certificates marked "X" to reflect that gender

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The RI Foundation’s Equity Action Fund announced grants totaling $53K in October to organizations serving the LGBTQ community. Among the eight agencies are GLAD, Family Service of RI, New Urban Arts, Project Weber/Renew, SAGE-RI, Girls Rock! RI, Sojourner House, and Thundermist Health Center. The announcement comes as the Equity Action Fund celebrates its 15th anniversary. It is guided by a volunteer

December 2019 / January 2020

by Myra Shays

advisory committee comprised of leaders in the LGBTQ community. Equity Action has given nearly $1 million to dozens of organizations. For more information, or to contribute, go to rifoundation.org.

Mental Health Support Groups Meet in PVD The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has formed "Connections," a support group open to LGBTQ people with any kind of mental health issues. It meets at the Beneficent Church on Weybosset Street in Providence each Wednesday from 6-7:30pm, facilitated by NAMI professionals who are LGBT peers. It is free and open to the public. For further information write to info@ namirhodeisland.org, or call 331-3060. Support is also available at Oasis Wellness and Recovery Center of Rhode Island. Their meetings are at 134 Mathewson Street, Providence, and are also free. For information, call 831-6937.

Faith-based Adoption Groups Exclude LGBTQ Parents The Trump Administration is proposing a rule for the U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services that would allow faith-based adoption agencies to continue getting taxpayer funding while they exclude LGBTQ families from their services, based on religious beliefs. Under the proposal, HHS would undo an Obama-era rule that included sexual orientation

as a protected trait under antidiscrimination protections. Said the CEO of GLAAD: "The Trump administration has again demonstrated that they prioritize the work of anti-LGBT activists over the safety and well-being of our children." One estimate shows 123,000 foster children are awaiting adoption, and this rule would make even fewer families available. "This rule is…the federal government enshrining discrimination into law," stated a Children's Rights attorney. The UCLA Law School finds that same-sex couples are significantly more likely than different-sex couples to be raising adopted or foster children.

Workers Leave National Transgender Organization In early November, the National Center for Transgender Equality lost about two-thirds of its staff in just a few weeks. At least eight staffers resigned over frustrations with the organization and a failed attempt to oust the executive and deputy executive directors. There was a record high of 23 employees at the start of this year; only seven remain. An unfair labor practice charge was filed against the center "for discharging all employees in the bargaining unit, in retaliation against the staff asking for recognition of their union," the Nonprofit Professional Employees Union. Last August some staffers walked out to protest the firing of an outreach coordinator who is black and Nicaraguan. Some workers also claim that there is not enough diversity on staff.Tensions at the center have been building for years, along with the feeling that the executive team had an inconsistent view towards "making the organization a strong social justice movement."

Matthew Shepard’s Parents Rebuke Attorney General Barr In October, at a Justice Department event in Washington marking the anniversary of a hate crimes law named for Matthew Shepard, his parents sent a message of rebuke for Attorney General William Barr. Judy and Dennis Shepard, parents of Matthew, a young Wyoming man killed in a homophobic attack in 1998, said, "Mr. Barr, you cannot have it both ways. If you believe that employers have the right to terminate transgender employees just because they are transgender, then you believe they are not worthy of protection. You need not invite us to future events at the Department of Justice…celebrating a law that protects these individuals from hate crimes." An Administration spokesman later said the hate crimes law as written does not bar discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, but that Congress could change the law.

Gender-Neutral Dolls Offered by Mattel Mattel, the company that makes Barbie and Ken dolls, introduced in September a new line called "Creatable World," according to The NY Times. Available in different skin tones, each doll comes with two wigs of different lengths and hair textures, and several wardrobe options that allow children to style the doll in a skirt, pants, or both. Each "kit" costs about $30.

The designer said they are not supposed to be adults, as Barbie and Ken are, but were "designed specifically to have a youthful, gender-neutral appearance." Mattel worked for about 18 months with doctors and people knowledgeable about gender identity, as well as with 250 families across the country, including children of all gender identities. While Mattel is the first major company to offer such dolls, a small firm named Tonner has sold them since 2017, as has a Canadian non-profit. 12:34

100%

Download the App Info, resources, and videos at your fingertips 24/7 on ….

RIDOH Celebrates First Anniversary of RIghtTime Sexual Health App In November, the RI Department of Health (RIDOH) celebrated the first anniversary of “RIghtTime, Rhode Island’s Sexual Health App,” believed to be the first app of its kind from a state health department. It has been downloaded over 3,500 times. RIghtTime offers resources and videos on sexual health topics such as: Prevention, testing, and treatment of HIV/STIs; a health services locator to find free condoms, HIV rapid testing, and Title X Health Centers; PrEP and PEP (medications to prevent HIV); and dating and healthy relationships. The app also features a partner notification tool that allows people to anonymously notify sexual partners that they tested positive for an STD, and encourage them to get tested. Users may also utilize the app’s “Ask the Expert” feature to anonymously ask questions of an expert from RIDOH via text, email, or phone. To learn more, visit righttimeapp.com/lgbt, download RIghtTime from the App Store or Google Play, or call 222-5960.

optionsri.org

Toxic Company: The Vaping Crisis in the LGBTQ Community We are amidst an epidemic. By

now, I’m sure you’ve heard about the vaping crisis that has resulted in 18 confirmed deaths in 15 states. As the death toll rises, many states have decided to ban the sale of vape liquids altogether. In fact, e-cigarette or vaping products have been directly tied to significant lung injuries across nearly every state in the country. Wake up and listen, because we are especially vulnerable to these health consequences. LGBTQ folks are more likely to smoke than straight cisgender people. About one in five people in our community report smoking cigarettes, and the trend for vaping products is the same. The 2018 Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System showed that those identifying as lesbian, gay, or bisexual are more than twice as likely to vape than those who don’t identify this way. Just go to one of Providence’s gay bars and see for yourself. We have risk factors that make us vulnerable to the corporations selling these products.The stress and stigma that our community faces with understanding our sexualities, identities, and how we fit in this world can make us think that puffing our problems away is a useful, albeit short-lived, solution to our issues. We are also targeted by aggressive marketing efforts. In the mid 90s, large tobacco companies initiated a marketing campaign called Project SCUM (Sub-Culture Urban Marketing) to target LGBTQ populations. As if the name doesn’t already tell you that these companies didn’t have our best interests in

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by Jonathan Lucero McKinney

mind, these enormous corporations still push their products through bar sponsorships and promotional efforts at Pride events to specifically increase their visibility to our community. Since LGBTQ individuals are five times less likely to reach out for smoking cessation assistance, and are also less likely to have health insurance (where a health professional could help you quit), it is abundantly clear that the influence these corporations have over us is staggering. Once they hook you on their products, it’s an extremely difficult

LGBTQ individuals are five times less likely to reach out for smoking cessation assistance, and are also less likely to have health insurance habit to kick. Many vaping products are marketed as smoking cessation tools, but the fact of the matter is that they’re extremely addictive. Kevin Burns, CEO of Juul, agrees with the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) saying, “If you’ve never used nicotinecontaining products, don’t start!”

December 2019 / January 2020

Concern continues to grow now that we’re seeing this outbreak of lung injuries and deaths related to vaping. We still need more research to identify what chemical or chemicals are causing these toxic effects, but it has been reported that lung infection from contaminated e-liquids or dirty vaporizers is likely not the cause. A local gay man, Stephen, states that “I started vaping to help me quit cigarettes, but found them too harsh on my lungs, so I stopped.” Most afflicted users reported a history of using THC-containing products, which is the substance in marijuana that makes you feel high. It’s not likely that THC is the culprit. Recent CDC findings indicate the cases could be caused by the additive vitamin E acetate, unknown additives, or vaporized byproducts in the e-liquids. Stephen commented about his use of THCcontaining vape products, “I love the taste from the marijuana vapes. It’s a different high and just feels cleaner.” He went on to say that if he could still buy them locally, he would. Stephen, who was found sipping a drink at Mirabar, along with three other LGBTQ individuals I interviewed for this story, declined to have a picture taken or to reveal their full names. All of them stated they wouldn’t want friends, family, or employers to find out about their vaping. There seems to be a negative stigma attached to the behavior, and although

there are some people who vape who are outspoken, there is still fear of public judgment. LGBTQ individuals may initially start vaping to escape stress, but find themselves driven to keep quiet about doing it. Dr. Philip Chan of Open Door Health comments, "Vaping is an increasing public health concern. There have been recent reports of lung injury cases associated with the use of e-cigarette and vaping products, including here in Rhode Island. In general, nicotine is highly addictive and the use of e-cigarettes or vaping products is unsafe for all ages and especially youth and younger people." In fact, around 80% of the vape-related lung injuries are in people under 35 years old.The Rhode Island Department of Health released data to show that LGBTQ youth vape at higher rates than straight cisgender people. Teens in Rhode Island are encouraged to text HOPE4RI to 88709 to obtain the facts on vaping and get help quitting.

Tobacco companies initiated a marketing campaign called Project SCUM (SubCulture Urban Marketing) to target LGBTQ populations.

We all know someone who vapes, or perhaps you do it yourself.The alarm is sounding and the time is now to take a step in the right direction to stop vaping. As part of the LGBTQ community, we understand that life may throw more obstacles our way than other individuals. Deciding to vape or smoke is not a healthy way to deal with these struggles. We’ve been subjected to outrageous marketing campaigns that have lined the pockets of smoking and vaping corporations for far too long. Becoming an advocate for ourselves and our friends is the only way we can get a grip on this epidemic. Jonathan Lucero McKinney is a clinical consultant and medical writer passionate about public health education. He lives with his boyfriend in Providence.

To get help quitting smoking or vaping: Teens can text: HOPE4RI to 88709 Call: 1-800-QUIT-NOW

The staggering number of cases of vape-related illness has led Massachusetts to put a four-month ban on vape sales, declaring it a public health emergency. Other states in New England have followed suit, citing concerns for public health. It will take some time to determine if any of it is safe. For the time being, the CDC has published some symptoms to watch out for in vape users. Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and abdominal pain could all be signs of something serious. Symptoms can occur over a few days to several weeks. Rhode Island Department of Health Director Nicole AlexanderScott comments, “Every person in every community in Rhode Island deserves an equal opportunity to be healthy, regardless of their sexual orientation, [and] part of giving everyone an equal opportunity to be healthy means educating everyone about the serious health risks associated with vaping, and educating everyone on the fact that those health risks are 100% preventable. Help is available today for anyone who wants safe, effective tools to help quit vaping or smoking at no cost.”

Visit cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/index.html To stay up-to-date on the vaping crisis, visit the CDC website here: cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease. html.

FI R E SU PPR ESSI O N A N D SA FETY

FI R E EX TI N GU I SH ER S SA L ES & I N SPECTI O N

SU PR ESSI O N SY STEM FO R K I TCH EN S

www.firexri.com (401) 683-5200

W e a r e des ign a t ed a M IN O R ITY O R W O M EN B U SIN ESS EN TER PR ISE (M B E/W B E) by t h e s t a t e of R I, oper a t in g in Por t s m ou t h R I s in ce 1989.

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News from TGI Network of Rhode Island by Ethan Huckel

Today took a turn

away from brisk morning air and warm afternoons to snowflakes and stiff winds. Though this weather could easily slide back to mild autumnal temperatures tomorrow, no doubt we will soon see the streets lit festively for the holidays. You may very well be reading this by a crackling fire with a warm cup of cocoa in your hands. Culturally, there exists a romanticized view of this time of year: warm sweaters, the comfort of coming in from the cold, the sweet treats, and showering gifts on friends and family. But it’s a fraught season for many. For some, this time of year highlights their isolation and loneliness, their pain made clearer in contrast to abounding messages of joy. And there are those among us struggling

to find a warm, safe place to sleep each night. Google the phrase “Transgender in the winter” and you’ll find some articles about what’s fashionable to wear in the snow, and others about surviving on the streets in freezing temperatures. In true Dickensian fashion, our “Season of Light” is also our “Season of Darkness.” It would be arrogant to imagine that I could offer a list of solutions to these struggles; they reflect systemic failures and the depths of loss and anguish that cannot easily be swept away. Any trans people struggling this winter should know that there are opportunities for support that may provide solace, or perhaps community, to fill the void that isolation has left. TGI Network hosts support group meetings

Our “Season of Light” is also our “Season of Darkness.” five times a month (email borderlands@ tginetwork.org for more information), and many group members support one another with additional gatherings throughout the holidays. In addition, Thundermist Health Center’s Trans Health Team offers a number of wellness events that can both support your

emotional and physical health, and bring you closer to other people. As I reflect on the year behind us and look to the year ahead, I am grateful for the work that TGI Network board members and volunteers have done to provide support, community events, and advocacy for Rhode Island’s transgender, gender diverse, and intersex communities. We rolled out a new training program that is bringing affordable training in allyship and inclusion to organizations throughout the state. We built on our calendar of Interfaith Services, led by LGBTQ+ clergy specifically for our LGBTQ+ community. We gathered again to celebrate empowerment and remember those we have lost. We look forward to the new year with hope, committed to our mission to serve Rhode Island’s gender diverse community however we can. TGI Network of Rhode Island is the only statewide organization providing support, advocacy, and education for the transgender, gender-diverse, 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.

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.

Safe Zone Committed to providing a supportive environment for LGBTQ individuals

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

2019

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

HR-318236 9/19

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OUT ON THE TOWN Rhode Island Pride Honors

Marriott Providence - Nov. 3, 2019 Photos by Paul Martin Curated by Kim Stowell

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December 2019 / January 2020

Legends Calendar Release Party

EGO Providence - Oct. 20, 2019 Photos by Paul Martin Curated by Kim Stowell

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Dear Reader,

Are you out of Options? Your support today will determine that. Have you noticed fewer copies of Options Magazine around lately? Were you surprised to receive this copy in the mail, or to find an issue at your local establishment? It’s no secret that your community magazine is struggling to stay in print. During this time of giving, we’ve trusted that by investing in more copies and delivering this issue to our full mailing list and distribution sites, you will respond in generosity to keep this trusted resource, that your local LGBTQ+ community has depended on for 37 years, in print.

Give today to keep the presses running.

Options proudly brings together and supports the work of community organizations like Youth Pride, Inc., RI Pride, SAGE-RI, TGI Network, AIDS Project RI, AIDS Care Ocean State, and others by providing space to share their news with you. Our team works hard researching events, updating resource listings, and working with writers to get facts straight (even if nothing else is!).

Our team cannot continue to publish at this pace without your financial support. Your response to this letter will greatly impact the crucial decisions we will make in the coming months to determine how this valued institution will survive. Today, we can’t offer you a ticket to a ball, auction items to bid on, or a live performance. Instead, we offer you these pages, and within them, a lifeline to community. Donate today, knowing that your gift directly provides this lifeline. Do you remember the first time you opened Options Magazine? Did you feel a sense of pride in your community, or discover an interesting resource, event, or perspective? Your gift today extends a hand to those who are questioning, fearing invisibility, recently out, or new to town, and engages them with our vibrant and diverse community. Our small organization has sought and received community guidance to one basic question: Should we continue, and if so, how? Resoundingly, you want Options to stay, and if possible to remain in print. So, we’ve brought on talented new team members, and we have a fundraising plan that includes a more aggressive approach to grant applications and advertising outreach. We are meeting those goals by working ever harder. However, our plan relies on donors like you giving us a strong start in 2020. Please use the conveniently provided envelope, and make your gift today. As we come to the end of 2019, we reflect on the year past. Here are a few things we as a board are grateful for: TT

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Our loyal advertisers, readers, and donors. Without you, Options could not thrive. This issue is dedicated to a happier, healthier you in 2020, and the RI Department of Health has sponsored this issue to help make this happen. A volunteer team that is second to none. From board members to our editorial staff, writers, photographers, distributors…the list could go on. We are grateful for your continued presence in the life of Options Magazine and look forward to great things in the new year.

December 2019 / January 2020

Our resilient community that works towards equity, inclusion, and better access to resources for everyone. We have come a long way, and have a long way to go together.

As a print magazine, Options is at a crossroads. We run on a shoestring budget, and printing and mailing costs are on the rise. We operate with no office space, and staff committing far more time than they are paid for. Your gift directly ensures the information and resources within Options Magazine are accessible to everyone. We are counting on our sponsors, advertisers, and generous donors like you to keep your Options open. How will your gift help? TT TT

$25 pays for six issues mailed to your home or office for one year. $50 additionally provides a non-profit organization, like a library or public school, with copies for one year. $100 covers the cost to print one story, and earns you acknowledgment in the Options Donor Hall of Fame, appearing in the February/March issue. Your donation of any size sustains this valuable resource for our LGBTQ+ community.

If you, along with most of the readers receiving this free copy, donate $25, you will enable Options to mail all issues in 2020 to every subscriber, while transforming our online presence to bring readers even more of the community-building, life-saving, and thought-provoking content only Options provides. To our faithful financial supporters who are able to give again, we are very grateful. Further, please encourage local businesses to advertise with us. And when you patronize our advertisers, tell them, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We saw you in Options!â&#x20AC;? Thank you for being part of the Options family. Together, we can continue a proud tradition of bringing news, events, and resources to the LGBTQ+ community of Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts.

F o r 3 7 ye a r s , we h a ve f a i t h f u l l y s e r ve d o u r c o m m u n i t y, a n d w i t h yo u r d o n a t i o n , we c a n c o n t i n u e f o r 3 7 m o re ! All the best in 2020,

The Options Board of Directors: Mike Marrapodi, Ashley Delgado, and Arthur Snow P.S. If we receive your donation of any size by January 4, you will be acknowledged in our February/March 2020 issue!

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ARE YOU OUT OF OPTIONS? ART HEALS THE VAPING CRISIS COMBATING HATE CRIME optionsri.org 11 Rhode Island and Southern New England's LGBTQ Communitywww.optionsri.org Magazine Since 1982

Make checks payable to: Options Magazine, PO Box 6406, Providence, RI 02904. Contribute online at www.optionsri.org. Options Magazine is a 501(c)(4) organization. Donations are not taxdeductible.

Creating SafeR Communities: Hate Crime Training Offered to RI Law Enforcement Cynthia M. Deitle of The Matthew Shepard Foundation leads a discussion with RI law enforcement.

by Marty Cooper, on behalf of the RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias

A man calls a mosque

just days before the start of Ramadan leaving a message that says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I planted a bomb and I am going to blow your Temple to bits.â&#x20AC;? Another person purchases a baby doll at a local discount store, takes a rope, and proceeds to tie a noose around the dollâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neck. Later, on three occasions, he hangs the doll directly in front of the only staircase an African-American family with a young child uses to access their apartment. During a full capacity training, held at the Institute for the Study and Practice of Nonviolence on September 25, over 90 law enforcement professionals representing the majority of communities in RI were asked if the two situations above, and several other scenarios, were federal and/or state hate crimes. The all-day event was sponsored by the RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias (RICPB) in conjunction with the Matthew Shepard Foundation, and had support from the Massachusetts Police Training Program. The program was a response to the significant increase in hate incidents and crimes in RI and around the country. According to FBI reports there were 11 hate crimes reported in RI in 2017.

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Another concern was that the state is now home to three active hate groups. The goals of the training were to: TT

Develop a greater understanding of the need for effective and prompt hate crime enforcement, Strengthen trust between law enforcement and diverse communities, Increase proficiency in recognizing and identifying bias indicators when responding to a potential hate crime, Enhance the skills necessary to engage with a victim in a sensitive and respectful manner, Enhance the ability to determine what facts are necessary to substantiate the criminal charge and the bias motivation, Explore how prosecutors and police can work together effectively to obtain a conviction, and Increase accuracy of reports.

The event began with Cynthia M. Deitle, programs and operations director for the Matthew Shepard Foundation and a former FBI agent, asking each attendee

December 2019 / January 2020

how many years they had served, and how much training they received in the area of hate crimes. The vast majority, with the exception of campus security officers, had only one day of training or less at the municipal police academy, even though most had served multiple years on the force.

Hate crimes affect not only the person, but also the whole community, as they have a fast ripple effect. Asked why there should be hate crime laws, all the responses related to providing better service and security to the community. Hate crimes affect not only the person, but also the whole community, as they have a fast ripple effect. Examples included the increase in hate crimes and incidents after the Pulse nightclub shooting and the Pittsburgh synagogue killings. One attendee said such crimes make people within that community or group feel frightened, even if they live nowhere near where the incident occurred. Most members of the law enforcement community said

they have never investigated a hate-related incident, as they are frequently not reported. Amy Romero, Assistant US Attorney, Department of Justice, District of RI; and Special Agent Pepper Daigler, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division, Providence Resident Agency, presented the six federal laws that apply to hate in our country, including the Shepard/Byrd Hate Crimes Act, Damage to Religious Property statute, and the Obstruction of Free Exercise of Religion. The Shepard/Byrd Hate Crimes Act, passed in October 2009, is named after Matthew Shepard and James Byrd. Both were attacked and left for dead – Shepard due to his sexual orientation, and Byrd for his race. At the time of these attacks, Wyoming, where Shepard was killed, did not recognize gay individuals as a protected class.Texas, where Byrd was murdered, had no hate crime laws at all. The RI Office of the Attorney General presented the state’s statutes and explained why these laws were put into effect, as well as the importance of officers reporting hate-related incidents to their office, and reaching out if they have a concern or question.

The process of reporting a hate-related incident can itself be victimizing The program closed with a panel discussion that included members of the RICPB.Also in attendance were respresentatives from The RI Council for Muslim Advancement, The Center for Southeast Asians, the NAACP Providence, RI State Council of Churches, Jewish Alliance of Greater RI, RI Board of Rabbis, Day One, Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and RI Pride. RICPB Coordinator Dr. Jodi Glass facilitated this segment of the program by saying how important it is that Rhode Islanders take hate incidents seriously. “We are an experiment in pluralism,” said Glass. “Therefore we must lead our country in taking on hate.” She asked panelists: "What is your relationship with law enforcement? Do you feel safe to report a hate crime or bias incident?” Several members of the panel, as well as community leaders expressed concern when interacting with police officers. Jen Stevens, a commissioner and editor-in-chief at Options Magazine, stated that while her relationship with law enforcement feels good in an environment like the training, the same cannot be said of her experiences out in the community. This was echoed by several community leaders. Dreya Catozzi, founder of the Urban Trans Women’s Resource Center, told attendees that black trans women are targeted, attacked, and murdered more than most other victims, citing the 19 transwomen of color who had been murdered in the country to date in 2019. Catozzi said victims are reluctant to report hate incidents. Halima Ibrahim, a 16-year-old female Egyptian-American Muslim and an anti-gun violence activist with a disability, said that she felt that the process of reporting a hate-related incident can itself be victimizing because it is often too difficult for one to communicate what has happened.

RICPB Coordinator Jodi Glass facilitates a panel discussion with community leaders and RI law enforcement.

What can Rhode Islanders do to improve relations with law enforcement and members of the community? RICPB Chairperson Joe Reddish suggested, “We started a process today. We must continue to talk to each other and share our fears and concerns while treating all people with dignity to significantly reduce hate in the state.” The mission of the RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias is to study and report on all forms of prejudice and hatred in RI, and to revise and codify, if possible, all laws relating to all forms of prejudice, bias, and hatred. RICPB provides training to law enforcement agencies, facilitates educational trainings, and provides a conduit for anyone experiencing hate crime reporting challenges in RI. The Commission reports to the governor, and is comprised of members of law enforcement, clergy, and community members. Visit calloutprejudiceri.org for more info.

Come play with us! Boston Pride Hockey, the premier LGBTQ+ inclusive hockey team of New England, is expanding into Rhode Island. Whether you’re just learning how to play or have played your whole life… Whether you identify as gay, bi, pan, trans, queer, straight, etc… We’d love to have you! When: 29 Nov 2019, 8:00 p.m. 13 Jan 2020, 9:00 p.m. 17 Feb 2020, 9:00 p.m. Where: Meehan Auditorium Brown University 235 Hope St Providence RI 02906 Get out on the ice and meet like-minded hockey players in a fun, inviting, no-pressure atmosphere. BPH prides itself on being a judgement-free safe space. Regardless of your level of play or “outness” , all are welcome! All that’s required is a passion for the game! Contact: Jim@ lrse.com or 401-835-1212 with questions.

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Youth Pride, Inc.’s 25th Anniversary Gala Raises $25,000 by Tiffani Carcieri, YPI Staff Youth Pride, Inc.'s (YPI) 25th Anniversary Gala was one of the organization's most successful and entertaining events to date. This event is traditionally YPI’s largest fundraiser of the year, and was held at Skyline at Waterplace on October 10, with all proceeds going directly to the programs and services we offer. It is largely due to the generosity of our sponsors and guests that we are able to provide on a weekly basis: three drop-in evenings, four support groups, Wednesday Night Dinner, individual counseling free of charge with our two clinicians, HIV testing, and access to our Basic Needs Pantry, which provides food, clothing, toiletries, and school supplies. With great excitement, we are proud to announce that the 2019 gala raised over twenty-five thousand dollars for our organization. We are grateful to everyone who attended the gala and celebrated 25 years of helping LGBTQ youth to live their truth. Special thanks goes out to our sponsors: Amgen (premier sponsor), Hasbro, Inc. (platinum sponsor), Ageless Innovation, AIDS Project RI, Amica, Barbara Margolis and Colleen Gregory, Bay Business Machines, Beacon Mutual, Blue Cross Blue Shield of RI, Big Brothers

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Big Sisters RI, Bryant University, The City of Providence and Mayor Elorza's Office, Representative Deborah L. Ruggiero, DeLuca & Weizenbaum Ltd, Duffy & Sweeney Ltd, Fellini Pizzeria, GLAD, The Gordon School, The Hire, IGT, John and Linda Silveira, Lisa Carcieri, Matthew Holmes, Michele Paliotta, Neighborhood Health Plan of RI, Providence College's Feinstein Institute, RDW Group, RI Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals, RI Pride, Seth PAC, and Thundermist Health Centers. The night included wonderful entertainment by our amazing emcee Mario Hilario, Hasbro toy company’s band Toys 2 Men, and Billy Gilman’s surprise musical appearance. Several awards were presented during the Gala and deserve special recognition. Our Founders Award for individuals who have a longstanding history of giving back to YPI was presented to Julia Barber and Julia Carr, our two dedicated volunteer Wednesday Night Dinner chefs. Barbara Margolis was presented with our Lipsky/ Whittaker Award for her profound impact on the youth we serve and the LGBT community at large.The Luis Pagan Award is presented to a youth participant

December 2019 / January 2020

who embodies the spirit of Luis Pagan, a former YPI youth who was dedicated to social justice and fulfilling the mission of YPI in the early years of the organization. This year's Luis Pagan Award was given to two previous YPI Youth board members: Ben Chaplin and Teeneka Cooke. Thank you all for the positive impact you have on YPI. Lastly, thank you to the staff, interns, and board of directors who dedicated immense amounts of time planning and executing the Gala. It truly does take a village and we cannot wait until next year! We encourage Options readers to check out more of Jennifer Bonin’s beautiful photography from the night in the gallery on our Facebook page.

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.

Old Lesbians Organizing for Change in RI

by Mev Miller

A chapter of Old Lesbians

Organizing for Change (OLOC) is mobilizing old lesbians in Rhode Island. OLOC, a national organization founded in 1989, has chapters all over the country. While we work for a future free of all oppressions, OLOC is specifically focused on the well-being of old lesbians, 60+ years of age. A small group of old lesbians has been meeting for the past year in RI, and it’s been an exciting time of exploration and

discussion. In an effort to broaden our visibility, the first community welcome gathering was held on November 17, at Character's Cafe in Cranston. Twenty-three old dykes ranging in age from 63-93 years of age gathered to learn more about OLOC. We experienced a supportive and spirited afternoon, as we explored such questions as what does it mean to be “old?” How do we experience ageism? Why is the “L” in “LGBTQ” disappearing?

OLOC is a cooperative community of old lesbian feminist activists from many backgrounds working for justice and the well-being of all old lesbians, and to eliminate the oppression of ageism. While we enjoy the social connections, OLOCRI wants to honor the “Organizing for Change” in our name. In the coming year, we will focus on voter registration (celebrating 100 years of women’s right to vote), and educating about issues of critical importance for

l-r: Sally Hay, Deb Valletta (seated), Thea Ernest, Marjorie Moskol, Mev Miller

upcoming elections, like healthcare and LGBTQ rights – especially for seniors. Follow on Facebook at Old Lesbians Organizing for Change – Rhode Island Chapter. Email us: OLOCinRI@gmail.com.

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Working OUT in 2020 Options received news from two local gyms where environments specifically welcoming to the LGBTQ community are being fostered.Will your 2020 resolution get you through their doors?

On the Ropes Boxing & Fitness Welcomes LGBTQ Youth On the Ropes Boxing & Fitness (OTR) is a new state-of-the-art training facility in Pontiac Mills in Warwick that aims to provide LGBTQ youth with a welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere so they can work out and live their best lives while focusing on physical health. OTR is owned by four women (Jamie,Tracy, Kathy, and Amy) who offer their experiences as registered USA boxing coaches, certified personal trainers, and nutritional coaches, one of who is a four-time world champion boxer. Melissa DeLuca, also the Director of Youth Services at Youth Pride, Inc., is a certified personal trainer at OTR who is eager to help LGBTQ youth meet their health goals. She also understands the unique physical needs of trans athletes. OTR staff value inclusivity and are excited to establish their space as a safe, non-judgmental zone. For more information, email Melissa at deluca260@yahoo.com, or visit ontheropesri.com.

Industrial Revolution CrossFit Thriving in Pawtucket Industrial Revolution CrossFit (IRCF) is a dynamic gym located at 154 Smithfield Avenue in Pawtucket, owned and operated by State Senator Donna Nesselbush and wife Kelly Carse. In 2016, they set out to create a community where all fitness levels, body types, and diverse backgrounds were welcome. “We wanted to open a different kind of gym, a safe space where people of all body types, gender identities, and fitness levels are embraced – where people, families, and community come first," said Nesselbush. IRCF offers CrossFit programming (including Olympic lifting), High-Intensity Internal Training/Boot Camp classes, and nutritional programs. IRCF Coach Corinne Hill says, “Kelly had coaches train in gender diversity with a focus on nonbinary and transgender people. We have gender neutral bathrooms downstairs, and can adjust shower accommodations.” Hill also noted a sensitivity to gender pronouns. For more information, or to purchase holiday gift cards, call 724-4500, visit industrialrevolutioncrossfit.com, or go by for a tour or free introductory class.

Greater Providence Chapter

Giving Caring, Conﬁdential Suppor� When You Need It Most

HELPLINE: (401) 307-1802

Providence: meets1st Wednesday of the month at The MET School, Unity Building,325 Public Street, Providence, RI (No January 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 www.PFLAGprovidence.org for more information Email: PFLAGprovidence@gmail.com Like us on Facebook: PFLAG Greater Providence, RI Follow us on Instagram & Twitter @PFLAGProvRI

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December 2019 / January 2020

The flu shot protects you from the flu. And from rescheduling your tropical vacation. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your best protection against the flu.

GET YOURS TODAY Visit health.ri.gov/flu to learn more. #FightFluRI optionsri.org

REPORT FROM SAGE/RI by Cathy Gorman, SAGE-RI Steering Committee

On October 20, SAGE-RI held its annual meeting at the Brooklyn Coffee and Tea House in Providence. In a welcoming setting, members conversed with friends and new acquaintances while enjoying delicious refreshments. We reviewed SAGE-RI’s successful 2018 reorganization and reported on 2019’s accomplishments. The pace of this organizations development and activities are guided by its overall mission to improve the lives of LGBT older adults as determined by the interests, concerns, and talents of its volunteers. This is measured by SAGE-RI’s engagement in activities consistent with its goals of offering service, education, and training, and advocacy. This has been a challenging and successful year. The SAGE-RI LGBT Café is in its fourth year of operation based on strong partnerships with Meals on Wheels of RI, the RI Office of Healthy Aging, the Church of the Transfiguration, and the RI Chapter of AARP. Our History Club, held on the fourth Wednesday of each month, was launched to learn about our community’s past and gain perspective on current issues. SAGE/ Table events held throughout the year reached an intergenerational audience, with co-sponsors including RI Pride, the Renaissance City Softball League, and Thundermist Health Center. Other events included movie showings, opportunities to join in RI Pride’s community-wide celebrations, and the Imperial Court Coronation. A recent collaboration with Thundermist greatly expanded the range of social activities available to LGBT older adults.

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SAGE-RI strengthened ties with the LGBT community through participating in discussions with RI Pride, the APRI Consumer Conference and Walk for Life, the 2019Transgender Health Conference, and Renaissance City Softball League events. SAGE-RI volunteers worked with RI LGBTQ Action to urge legislators to restore state benefits to LGBTQ veterans and to revise Rhode Island’s parentage laws.

We will offer programming to ensure LGBT older adults equitable access to community-based services SAGE-RI also connected with the larger senior advocacy community through the Senior Agenda Coalition of RI’s legislative forum and annual conference, the RIC Annual Gerontology Conference, and meetings of the Lt. Governor’s Long Term Care Coordinating Council. We also supported the inclusion of LGBT elders as a “population of greater social need” in the RI Office of Healthy Aging State Plan, a document governing Older American Act funds for the next four years. Most excitingly, SAGE-RI received a grant from the Rhode Island Foundation’s Equity Action Fund to conduct a series of workshops in the fall of 2019 and spring of 2020 aimed at building LGBT cultural competence among nurses, social workers, and facility administrators working in hospitals, long term care, assisted living, and community-based services. These workshops feature our SAGECare curriculum, which was

December 2019 / January 2020

developed with federal funds and resources through the National Resource Center on LGBT aging. (Register at Eventbrite.com.) SAGE-RI will engage the community in 2020, with outreach meetings across to RI to identify priorities and critical needs. In response to feedback, we will offer programming to ensure LGBT older adults equitable access to communitybased services. (Write to sageriinfo@ gmail.com to volunteer.) Our next SAGE/ Table event is tentatively scheduled for January 31.

The SAGE-RI Steering Committee wishes to express its gratitude for all the support it received this year from individuals and organizations within the LGBT community and from allies and partners throughout Rhode Island. 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 SAGE-RI c/o the Church of the Transfiguration, 1665 Broad Street, Cranston, RI 02905.

Comic by Charlie Hall

Felicitations

By Felicia Nimue Ackerman

Gaily Anticipating Impeachment was in sight and we Foresaw a joyful day, A day disgracing someone who Was fiercely anti-gay. We waited with our bated breath, And now our spirit sings With greatest glee. What victory A Trump impeachment brings! Note: This poem is based on an Emily Dickinson poem that begins, "He ate and drank the precious words."

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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

programs, advocacy, strength training, prevention education, HIV testing. 9 Pleasant Street, Providence. 831-5522 www.aidsprojectri.org. 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. Project BREAK: Outpatient mental health program focussed on substance abuse in gay/bi men. Miriam Hospital. Free. Contact Sabrina Strong, strong@Lifespan.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

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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.

INFORMATION/EDUCATION 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. 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.

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.

POLITICAL & LEGAL GROUPS 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. National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues. info@ nlgja.org, www.nlgja.org.

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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. Chapel Street Congregational Church UCC: Open & Affirming. 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.

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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. 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/.

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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. 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. FIELD HOCKEY: Teamworks Somerset, 732 Lee’s River Ave., Somerset, MA. New season every 10 weeks. (508-676-3956) info@teamworkssomerset.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 now operating in Rhode Island with scrimmage games in Providence. 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. 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 (free yoga Mondays): Newcomers and all abilities welcome. Meet at Hope St. end of Blackstone Blvd., Providence, Thursdays 6pm. Contact Brian 751-7643 or bripm@cox.net. www.frontrunnersri.com. Frontrunners Boston RUNNING Group: Morning walk/ run along the Charles River. Saturdays,10am. Club Cafe, 209

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December 2019 / January 2020

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. 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. Open six days. 66 Troy St., Fall River, MA. (508) 676-5708. www.childfamilyservices.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. 3:30 -- 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. 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.

optionsri.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,

34 options

December 2019 / January 2020

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.

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Old Lesbians Organizing for Change in RI by Mev Miller

Youth Pride, Inc.’s 25th Anniversary Gala Raises $25,000

Creating Safer Communities: Hate Crime Training Offered to RI Law Enforecement

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Are you out of Options? Your support today will determine that

Toxic Company: The Vaping Crisis in the LGBTQ Community by Jonathan Lucero McKinney

NEWS BRIEF: Dec 2019/Jan 2020

From the Editor-In-Chief

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW: Jazzmen Lee-Johnson