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Rhode
Island’s
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender
Community Newsmagazine
www.optionsri.org
October 2012
2012 AIDS Walk for Life
The Rhode Island LGBTQ community came out in a big way for this year’s AIDS Walk on September 23. A major fundraiser for AIDS Project Rhode Island, the focus of this year’s
walk was youth, a group that needs to hear messages of health and safety if we are to reduce the number of new diagnoses in our state and beyond. More photos of the event on page 2.
In this issue: 2 AIDS Walk 3 News Briefs 5 Letters 6 Calendar 9 Trans Family Law 11 This Month in Options History 12 LGBT-Affirming Therapy 15 Winters vs. URI 18
AIDS Community Watch
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RI Pride
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YPI
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RI LGBT Dem. Caucus
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q Serving the RI LGBT Community Visit our Resources p. 27 options Since q 1982 q october 2012 Section onq
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Rhode Island Walk for Life 2012 September 23
Photography by LisĂŠ Schwartz
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News Briefs Joanne Bussiere
Event in Recognition of 14th Annual International Transgender Day of Remembrance An event in recognition of Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) will take place on Wednesday, November 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Bell Street Chapel in Providence. Coordinated by Youth Pride, Inc. and TGI Network, with the help of a TDOR planning committee, the event will consist of a ceremony in the Chapel’s sanctuary with speakers, music, time for reflection and recognition of the lives of those we have lost this year. Following the ceremony, there will
be a panel discussion with members of RI’s transgender community in the Chapel’s Hall with time for socializing, refreshments and sharing of resources. The International Transgender Day of Remembrance began with a single candlelight vigil in San Francisco in 1998 after the murder of Rita Hesler, a well-known transgender woman who was brutally murdered on November 28, 1997. Her murder is still
Report Describes Widespread Anti-LGBT Discrimination in U.S.
Now, the transgender community, along with its advocates and allies, gather in communities around the world each November to remember the lives that our community has lost to gender identity/gender expression related bias. We call on all LGBTQ community allies and advocates to join us at this solemn yet inspiring event.
I Don’t
A patchwork of contradictory state and federal laws, barriers to public service and stigma in schools are some of the challenges LGBT Americans face daily, according to a report issued by the LGBT Movement Advancement Project and national partner organizations. The report, “An Ally’s Guide to Issues Facing LGBT Americans,” is meant to serve as a primer for those who support and fight for LGBT equality.
According to the RI ACLU and statistics from the Dept. of Health, only 68 RI couples obtained civil union licenses in the first year the civil union law went into effect on July 1, 2011. House speaker Gordon Fox has promised a vote next year on a same -sex marriage bill. “This data indicates that RI gay and lesbian couples have emphatically said ‘I don’t’ to the civil union law,” Said RI ACLU Director Steven Brown.
She Fought a Good Fight In a competitive primary in State Senate District 29, openly gay Laura Pisaturo, who was endorsed by Victory Fund, lost by a margin of 47 to 53 to incumbent State Senate Michael McCaffrey, who is an opponent of marriage equality. McCaffrey, who chairs Rhode Island’s Senate Judiciary committee, has never allowed pending same-sex marriage legislations to advance to the floor of the Senate even though he is a Democrat. His belief is that marriage is between a man and a woman. Ray Sullivan, campaign director of Marriage Equality Rhode Island, says he will take McCaffrey “at his word” when the Democrat said he’ll allow a vote on same-sex marriage legislation in his committee despite his personal opposition.
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N.H. Elects Openly Gay State Senator; Two Advance in Delaware New Hampshire State Rep. David Pierce this week became the first openly gay candidate elected to the state Senate as a freshman. He won a Democratic primary and faces no GOP opposition in the fall. Meanwhile, two Democratic legislative candidates who also won their primaries this week could make history as Delaware’s first openly LGBT state lawmakers. Andy Staton is running for a seat in the State Senate, while out lesbian Marie Mayor is seeking a House seat. For more news briefs, turn to page 21
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From the Options Office We’re proud to have been quoted in the recent Rhode Island Monthly article, “Out in Public.” We’re also proud of the magazine for doing a story on transgender youth. It is so important to bring information to those outside the LGBTQ community about transgender people. (Not that we can’t use more understanding within our own community as well.)
perience overall. All of us here hope that you enjoy this issue of Options. It has been our pleasure to put it together for you. Be sure and pay particular attention to the calendar -- there is so much happening here in October! No one has an excuse for not going out and doing something queer this month.
I also want to say thank you to the person who called to cancel her Options subscription last month. We ended up having such a productive discussion. Your input was much appreciated, and I think you came away feeling better about us too. A good ex-
Rhode Island’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Newsmagazine Since 1982
OCTOBER 2012 q Vol. XXXI, No. 8 Managing Director Kim Stowell editor@optionsri.org Writers Thomas Bertrand, Kalene Brennan, Joanne Bussiere, Jessica Cinquegrana, Lisa Eramo, Cynthia Glinnick, Sally Ann Hay, Kerri Kanelos, Jennifer Levi, Cathy Robinson, Jennifer Stevens Copy Editors Ronan Fitzgerald, Brian Gay, Steve Kagan, Joseph Morra, Emma Garrett Nelson, Maria Phillips, Jim Seavor, Myra Shays Calendar Editor Annie Cronin-Silva calendar@optionsri.org
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www.optionsri.org © OPTIONS 2012. Options is published ten times each year. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the governing board, volunteers or staff. Listings are provided as a resource and do not imply endorsement. Submissions to Options must be signed and accompanied by a phone number, but names may be withheld on request. Submissions, ads, calendar or resource listings for the November issue must be delivered by October 10. Financial support is also always welcome. For a subscription, send us your name and address or subscribe online at www.optionsri.org. Moving? Send us your old address with your new address.
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Letter Letter to the Editor, COLAGE is a national movement of children, youth and adults with one or more LGBTQ parent(s) working to build community and seeking social justice through youth empowerment, leadership development, education and advocacy. Rhode Island has an active COLAGE chapter that meets in East Providence on the third Saturday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to noon. In the last month, I have taken over as the RI COLAGE coordinator. I am excited to be taking over the leadership of this chapter. I am an outand-proud lesbian, and a mother of twins who will grow up in a household with two moms. I am committed to COLAGE’s goal of building community and inspired by its mission to have a societal impact. I am also an educator with experience helping adoles-
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Remember It is your duty to vote.
cents build a positive self-image and explore their personal identity in relation to the world around them. RI COLAGE has been and will continue to be a place where children of LGBTQ parent(s) can come to find a safe, fun and affirming community experience. As our numbers grow, I also hope to become more visible in the state at large. (Keep an eye out for us at RI Pride in June!)
Be an informed voter!
Our next meeting is on Saturday, October 20, from 10:30 a.m. - noon. For questions, location information, to RSVP, or to get involved, please feel to contact me at vjutras5@gmail.com.
To learn who the candidates are, visit www.rilin.state.ri.us. • Also check www.marriageequalityri.org • The RI League of Women Voters at www. lwvri.org • Read your local newspaper • Attend debates and other public appearances by the candidates • Find out where the candidates stand on the issues YOU care about.... AND THEN VOTE!
Sincerely, Veronica Jutras
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Brought to you by your friends at Options Newsmagazine
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Calendar Got a big event coming up? Let us know about it! Send your listing by the 10th of the month preceding to calendar@optionsri.org, and we’ll see that it gets into the edition. St., Justice Building, Providence, RI 02905.
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Author Lesléa Newman will read from her new book, October Mourning: A song for Matthew Shepard. 7:00 p.m. Books on the Square, Providence.
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TransPartners of New England. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. The meeting location is withheld for participant privacy. Please email partners@ tginetwork.org for more information.
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PFLAG of Greater Providence Monthly Meeting. 6:45 -8:45 p.m. The Met School, 325 Public
3 Author Lesléa Newman will read from her new book, October Mourning: A song for Matthew Shepard. 5 p.m. University of Rhode Island, Kingston. 4 The Show with Andrew, The Comedy Connection, 39 Warren Ave., E. Providence 8 p.m. Hosted by Andrew Williams with special cohost from LiteRock 105 Amy Pontes. 4 Imperial Court of RI presents Drag Drop Soup at Chan’s in Woonsocket. 7 p.m. Tickets
are $10, available at eventbrite.com. Benefits Sojourner House. 267 Main St., Woonsocket. Email icri.prov@ gmail.com for more info. 5
Comedian Poppy Champlin at Indigo Lounge. 599 Tiogue Ave., Coventry. Visit www.indigopizza.com for more information.
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Luna’s Ladies Night. 9 p.m. – 12 a.m. Featuring Sarah Rice and Invincible We. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music, DJ, special events. 21+. $6 cover. For more information, visit www.lunaspvd.com.
6 & 7 5th Annual Ocean State Cup Softball Tournament. All LGBT teams from RI and beyond. Games
For the past 29 years We’ve been handing our Clients The same old Line …
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at Agawam, Pierce and Hull fields in East Providence. Visit www. providencesoftball.org for times and directions. 6
God-des & She in concert at GirlSpot at Platforms, 165 Poe St., Providence. www.girlspotri.com.
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RI Pride Honors. 6 – 9 p.m. The Greenhouse at Hope Artiste Village, 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket.
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Luna’s Ladies Night. 9 p.m. – 12
ArtBeat Auction. The Providence Biltmore, 11 Dorrance St., Providence. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Live and silent auction, cocktails, light dinner fare, live music. Tickets $45, can be purchased online at www.aidscareos. org. 19
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Luna’s Ladies Night. 9 p.m. – 12 a.m. Featuring Heather Rose in Clover. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music, DJ, special events. 21+. $6
Are you ready for some softball? a.m. Featuring Becky Chace. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music, DJ, special events. 21+. $6 cover. For more information, see www.lunaspvd.com. 13
Retro Dance Party, GirlSpot at Platforms, 165 Poe St., Providence. www.girlspotri.com.
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GLAD Training on LGBTQ Youth Rights. Youth ages 13 to 23 are invited for an important workshop about your rights. 5:30 p.m. Youth Pride Inc., 743 Westminster St., Providence.
LGBT Softball all weekend! Teams from Boston, NYC & RI Come on OUT to the ballgame!
17 The Queer Book Club. 7 p.m. 9:30 p.m. Books on the Square, Providence. 18
The New England premiere of “Positive Youth,” film screening and panel discussion. 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Brown University, Smith Buonanno Hall, Room 106. A dynamic perspective on the reality of living with HIV. Charlie David of “FYE!,” “SpyTV,” “Crash Test Mommy” and his travel series “Bump” stars in the film. 19 16th
•5th Annual Tournament• GAMES AT
Agawam, Pierce and Hull Fields, East Providence
check www.providencesoftball.org for times • meet the players Friday night at The Stable, Providence •
Annual
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cover. For more information, visit www.lunaspvd.com. 22 MERI Community Meeting. 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. MERI Headquarters 118 North Main St., Suite 3, Providence. Visible Lives: Caring for LGBT Elders
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Visible Lives: Caring for LGBT Elders Conference. 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Designed for medical personnel, offering tools and resources for use with older LGBT patients. Write to sageriinfo@gmail.com for more information.
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Luna’s Ladies Night. Halloween Bash! 9 p.m. – 12 a.m. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music, DJ, special events. 21+. $6 cover. For more information, visit www.lunaspvd. com.
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Halloween Party with the Mary Day Band, 9 p.m. Indigo Lounge, 599 Tiogue Ave., Coventry. www. indigopizza.com.
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The Witches Ball Halloween Party, GirlSpot at Platforms, 165 Poe St., Providence. www.girlspotri.com.
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SAGE Coming Out Party, 4 – 6 p.m. Appetizers and desserts, cash bar. Roots Café, 276 Westminster St., Providence.
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Fifty Shades of Grey Tea Dance at Indigo Lounge, 3-8 p.m. Pumpkin carving contest, blindfolded shots, Athena demonstrations. 599 Tiogue Ave., Coventry. www.indigopizza. com.
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Youth Pride Inc.’s annual fundraiser, “Stepping Up, Stepping Out!” 5:30 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit youthprideri.eventbrite.com. q
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Changing the Legal Landscape for Transgender People Jennifer Levi
I am hard-pressed to think of a family law case involving a transgender person that had a fair or just outcome. And that is saying a lot. As the director of the Transgender Rights Project at Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), I hear from many transgender people facing discrimination in the formation, expansion or dissolution of family relationships. A recent case on which I worked is representative of the systemic problem of cultural and social bias reflected in our family court systems. Anne (all names listed are pseudonyms) has been the primary caretaking parent of her five-year-old child, Molly. She had Molly with an ex-partner, Tom. Although Tom saw Molly occasionally, Anne was the constant, stable presence in Molly’s life. Tom never objected to that arrangement. Anne recently fell in love with and married Brian, a kind, loving, supportive partner. He is transgender, a fact Tom learned by doing an Internet search on Brian. After learning of Anne’s marriage to Brian, Tom filed for sole legal and physical custody of Molly. Because Brian is a caring and competent stepfather and Anne has been a stable and loving parent for Molly her entire life, Tom was unable to attack Anne’s parenting rights directly. Instead, Tom threatened to bring into court the fact Brian is transgender and threatened to “out” Brian to his employer and community. It’s not a fair fight. In fact, it shouldn’t be a fight at all. But transgender people caught up in domestic relations matters have much to lose and, sadly, few protections. A new book, Transgender Family Law: A Guide to Effective Advocacy, which I coedited with Elizabeth E. Monnin-Browder, is intended to improve the legal landscape for transgender people and our families. It is designed to be a roadmap for navigating family court systems in an evolving area of
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law. Reversing bad precedent, establishing favorable outcomes and changing public attitudes are the goals of this book. In recent years GLAD has addressed transgender bias in all types of settings: a middle school’s mistreatment of a transgender student; a prison system’s denial of essential health care for a transgender inmate; a government agency’s denial of insurance coverage for medically necessary care; the federal government’s unequal treatment of a transgender taxpayer;,and more. However, transgender family law cases with favorable outcomes remain elusive. One of the challenges is the dearth of knowledge among family law attorneys -- even those deeply committed to advocating for transgender clients -- about effective representation for them. As a result, many transgender clients have been negotiating away their protections out of fear -- often well-founded -- that they will fare worse in the courts, which often share the widespread community and social bias against transgender people. For instance, an attorney told me about a client she represented some years ago. She was a transgender woman who, prior to her transition, was in a lawful different-gender marriage. The client was being divorced by her wife of many years but had a close, loving relationship with their daughter. However, the wife threatened that if her estranged
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spouse challenged the divorce in court, the transgender client would never see the child again. She quickly turned to poisoning the relationship between the parent and child. Although this sounds like a common family law scenario, the difference is that courts predictably side with the non-transgender spouse in imposing all kinds of unprincipled restrictions on transgender parents up to and including terminating a person’s parental status. Understanding the risk she faced, the transgender client chose not to challenge the wife’s legal custodial status, asking only that she be allowed to retain her parental status and a financial obligation of child support. The transgender parent, fearing the worst, wanted her child to know that regardless of what happened to their relationship, she would always provide for her. Stories like this are common and heartbreaking. They cry out for advocacy and education to reverse the negative legal precedent, bias and discrimination against transgender people that infuse our legal system. I hope publication of this book marks the beginning of the end of unfair and unjust outcomes for transgender people in family law matters. Jennifer Levi is the Director of the Transgender Rights Project at Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD). This piece was first published on the Huffington Post. q
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This Month in Options Jessica Cinquegrana “New offices and staff, RI Project AIDS, 1995”
October 1982 Gay men and women represent a minimum of 10% of the voting population. An Options editorial reminded the community that, “as a bloc, we have the power – and the responsibility – to be supportive of those candidates in the upcoming November elections who are cognizant and supportive of our needs.”
October 1988 The National Gay Rights Advocates (NGRA) and The Experience Weekend sponsor the first National Coming Out Day on October 11. The goal is to increase the visibility and political clout of the more than 20 million gay men and lesbians living in the U.S.A.
October 1989 Network of RI, the gay men’s organization, is proud to present “An Evening of Options,” a fashion show and cocktail reception to benefit Options, on Sunday, October 15. Each year, Network sponsors a fundraising event to support a local gay or lesbian organization.
October 1990 On Saturday, October 13, the Human Rights Campaign Fund Dinner was held at the Park Plaza Hotel in Boston. For the second year, the dinner committee selected the R.I. Alliance for Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights as a recipient of the funds raised.
October 1990 The LGBT community launches a nationwide boycott of Marlboro cigarettes and Miller beer -- both Philip Morris products -- as well as protesting at stops on the Philip
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History Morris-sponsored tour of the Bill of Rights, in response to the cigarette giant’s support of Senator Jesse Helms. The vehemently anti-gay North Carolina senator fought AIDS education and funding.
October 1991 Members of the gay and lesbian community gathered on October 7 for the first in a series of forums planned by RI Alliance for Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights – “Coming Out in the Workplace.” The event featured speakers sharing their experiences and insights.
October 1992 On Columbus Day Weekend, the RI chapter of the Names Project, the AIDS Memorial Quilt, took panels commemorating Rhode Islanders who have died of AIDS to Washington, D.C., to join the 30,000 panels displayed at the base of the Washington monument in our nation’s capital. This heart-wrenching display was seen by 350,000 people.
October 1993 On October 1, Speaking OUT began its third year on local public access television with the RI Hate Crimes Reporting Act of 1993 as its first topic.
October 1994 On October 5, Attorney General Jeffrey Pine announced that he would keep his word to the Alliance for Lesbian and Gay Civil Rights and would not prosecute two men under the “abominable and detestable crimes against nature” statute, Rhode Island’s so-called sodomy law, which made oral and anal sex a felony punishable by seven to twenty years in prison. q
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“Celebrating MA Supreme Court Ruling, State House 2003”
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Making an Informed Decision when Choosing an LGBTQ-Affirming Therapist Lisa A. Eramo
Second of two articles Brian Fernandes, 43, of Warren, was in therapy for eight months before he realized that his therapist wasn’t LGBTQ-affirming. “I knew this when I brought up an issue dealing with meeting other men, and he quickly changed the subject to focus on the work at hand,” he recalls. “I felt like I couldn’t disclose what was really going on with me.” Bobby, 57, of Johnston, has been in and out of therapy since seventh grade. He says his own experiences have been positive, but that he knows this isn’t always the case for everyone. “The worst situation would be to get attached to a therapist and then learn that they were homophobic or non-affirming,” he says. It’s important for LGBTQ clients to do
Kort
their homework before committing to work with a therapist, says Joe Kort, PhD, LMSW, author of Gay Affirmative Therapy for the Straight Clinician. “Doing so will spare them needless pain, frustration, and anxiety,” he adds. The following are some questions to consider: What type of treatment does the therapist provide? The type of treatment or particular theory or theories on which therapists base their practices matter when working with LGBTQ clients, says Kort. For instance, he asserts, “from a gay-affirmative therapy point of view, a blank slate [psychoanalytic therapy] doesn’t work. The whole world is a blank slate to us growing up. It’s just re-injuring and re-wounding an already-existing
Lazerus
hole that we have.” Aurit Lazerus, PsyD, clinical psychologist in Providence, agrees. “I don’t think that blank-slate therapy is appropriate because blankness is not appropriate in all cultures,” says Lazerus, who integrates a variety of treatments based on a client’s specific needs. “In a culturally aware context, it is part of being in a minority group that you self-identify when you meet with other people. That’s just what you do.” What training has the therapist received in LGBTQ issues? Jayna Klatzker, LICSW, ACSW, clinical social worker in Providence, says she attends workshops, reads current publications, researches topics with which she’s unfamiliar and is very connected with the medical and psychological community
Roblin
Klatzker
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in Rhode Island. Regardless of a therapist’s specific training, it is paramount that he or she be competent to work with the LGBTQ population, says Jaye Watts, MSW, direct services coordinator at Youth Pride, Inc. “It’s the responsibility of all therapists to gain some of this knowledge on their own,” he says, adding that therapists should be able to clearly and non-defensively articulate any training they’ve had. What does the therapist know about trans-related issues specifically? Has the therapist ever worked with a transgender client? “These are fair questions to ask. If a therapist isn’t willing to answer them, in my opinion, they’re the wrong therapist to work with,” says Kort.
...although a therapist may have good intentions by placing a rainbow sticker or ribbon in his or her office, it doesn’t necessarily imply that the therapist is affirming. “I think it’s more dangerous if people put up a ribbon when they really aren’t affirming.
Lazerus tacks a rainbow ribbon onto a bulletin board in her office so that clients feel more comfortable disclosing their sexual orientation. “I mark it as a short-cut communication that my expectations and assumptions are not limited to hetero perspectives. It’s similar to why I also mark my space with images from different cultures and racial backgrounds,” she says. However, clients should keep in mind that although a therapist may have good intentions by placing a rainbow sticker or ribbon in his or her office, it doesn’t necessarily imply that the therapist is affirming. “I think it’s more dangerous if people put up
Ask whether the therapist is familiar with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) guidelines, which provide standards of care for working with the transgender community, says Watts. If the therapist says no, does he or she ask where they can find more information about it, or does the therapist simply dismiss the information? How does the therapist feel about current issues, such as marriage equality? It’s contradictory for a therapist to say that he or she treats and respects all couples but doesn’t believe in marriage equality, says Kort. Does the therapist make LGBTQ resources readily accessible? Does the therapist provide links to LGBTQ-related articles on his or her website? Does the therapist put these resources in his or her waiting area? Kort says that if therapists provide copies of Time, Newsweek, and People, in their waiting area, then there’s no reason why they shouldn’t provide The Advocate [or Options] as well. “This shows clients that it’s a safe place and that you’re not afraid to put these resources out there,” he says. “Because we’re so invisible, we need visible signs.” Does the therapist show other subtle signs of support? “I have a huge diversity sticker, a transphobia button, and books of interest in my office,” says Klatzker. She says these signs help to create a safe environment, and they also communicate to clients that she values LGBTQ-related issues.
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a ribbon when they really aren’t affirming. That can cause more damage,” she says. Likewise, Marjorie Roblin, ACSW, LICSW, a clinical social worker in Providence, says although she doesn’t include any visible signs in her office, she’s more than comfortable outing herself as lesbian, and she advertises regularly in Options. Does the therapist use appropriate terminology? For example, “sexual preference,” “choosing to be LGBTQ,” and “alternative lifestyle” are all phrases that have negative connotations, and therapists shouldn’t be using them, says Kort.
What questions does the therapist include on the intake form? Lazerus says her form asks about sexual orientation, gender identity and expression and biological sex. Each question includes a blank so clients can fill in what feels most appropriate to them. She says she makes no assumptions about someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity until the individual discloses that information to her.
Your therapist should also mirror your language and be willing to ask questions when he or she doesn’t understand a term or concept, adds Roblin.
The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association suggests that all health care providers ask about relationship status (including partnered) rather than marital status. Forms should also specify significant other and partner in addition to spouse and/ or husband/wife. Therapists should not list transgender as an alternate sexual orientation, because sexual orientation and gender identity are distinct.
LGBTQ clients may need to explain certain terms, but this shouldn’t be an ongoing occurrence, says Kort. “You may have to teach your therapist some things, but you shouldn’t be spending your money teaching your therapist too many things,” he says.
Is the therapist willing to disclose his or her sexual orientation? Nina Pratt, 64, of Narra3.5 x 2.275. gansett, says she always asks whether a therapist is queer, or whether he or she has a close family member or friend who is queer. “I’m a lesbian. It’s important that my therapist be
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well-versed in the special issues that lesbians face,” she says. She says she avoids therapists who dodge the question or refuse to answer. Roblin says it’s completely appropriate to ask about a therapist’s sexual orientation during the initial conversation. If the therapist is straight, clients need to be able to determine whether this may pose a barrier for them, she adds. Brian Gay, 23, of Providence, says it doesn’t matter to him whether his therapist—a Jewish woman—also identifies as LGBTQ. What matters to him is that he feels respected and comfortable discussing issues related to sex, relationships and other topics. “She may have some understanding of oppression in her own life that is relatable to my experiences, but beyond that, I feel she can understand what I’m going through from an intellectual perspective,” he says. What do your instincts tell you? Pratt says she pays close attention to a therapist’s body language when speaking. “I’ve seen therapists flinch when I bring up certain topics,” she says. “Pay attention to your feelings,” says Roblin. “Don’t dismiss those because those are your instincts, and they’re going to tell you something about whether or not this is going to be comfortable for you.” q
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Andrew Winters is Not Going Away Kim Stowell
Nineteen years ago, Andrew Winters began working at the University of Rhode Island, advocating for and working on behalf of LGBT students. He can proudly claim many achievements and awards during that time. He can also be proud of the many students whose lives he touched with his calm, assertive strength. Then, two years ago, Winters found himself retired from the position, with a decent retirement package Winters, right, and his husband, Don Smith. from the University. Trouble is, he did not want to retire. The climate on campus at URI has been an issue for years. “There has long been a complete lack of accountability,” said Winters in a recent interview. “So many important issues were not addressed.” Beginning with a serious assault on a gay student in 2001, the frequent instances of anti-gay sentiment, verbal harassment and bullying forced many students to hide their orientation on campus. Winters said he repeatedly brought these incidents to the attention of the administration on behalf of the students, but no action was taken. Despite the Department of Justice and a community mediator coming to campus to address reports of homophobic bullying, the abuse went unchecked. Swastikas were painted on URI’s LGBT center. A transgender student and her partner were repeatedly harassed in the dormitory where she lived, with verbal assaults, transphobic slurs written on the door and even used condoms hurled at them. A meeting held at URI President Dooley’s house in August, 2010, with several community leaders and allies in attendance,
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seemed to be a chance to shed light on the serious problems with safety on campus for queer students. Within a short time, however, LGBT students took matters into their own hands, staging a sit-in at the library in October of that year to bring attention to the issues. It was around this time that the administration began to crack down on Winters, he says. He was given less access to upperlevel administrators and was buried in paperwork. His authority and freedom were restricted. It started to wear on him. He was diagnosed with PTSD; his partner with high blood pressure. When he was presented with a letter claiming that no one on campus had faith in him (which many have disputed), an administration official suggested that he retire immediately. The paperwork was already prepared. Reluctantly, he signed, agreeing to take the settlement. Ever since that day two years ago, he has been tirelessly working to right the wrongs that forced him out of his job, as well as the problems that persist on campus. He has endeavored to bring to light the policy violations, betrayals and half-truths that have been weighing heavy on his heart. He has kept the dream of a safe and tolerant URI campus alive in his mind.
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Just Keep Quiet Cynthia Glinnick
Josh Nave came to the University of Rhode Island in 2004, a nineteen-year-old gay man, looking for a safe place to meet like-minded people, socialize and be comfortable. He found the LGBT Center on campus, and this is where he met Andrew Winters. “I went there to meet other people, but I also ended up getting involved, volunteering to help with a few different events … but I was astounded that the university had almost no budget for the Center, and Andrew ended up putting his own money into it, just so we could have a place.” In his encounters with Andrew Winters, Josh found him to be “more than accommodating, more than welcoming, very well-rounded.” In explaining why Josh felt an LGBT Center was a necessary presence on campus, he related this personal story: “One evening, while walking with a friend on campus, just talking, we heard someone say ‘faggot.’ We turned around to see softball-sized rocks being thrown at us from the bushes. My friend almost got hit.” We also present best Josh told Andrew about histheencounter. in area music, comedy events. “Andrew explained and thespecial history of the uniWatch our sign! versity around this issue and said he would report it. And it wasn’t the first time I’d had a similar experience. I’d be walking
around the campus and hear people say ‘faggot’ and giggle.” When Josh saw the article in The Providence Journal about Andrew leaving, he spoke with a dean about it, asking him if he knew what happened to Andrew. The dean said he would not get involved, saying ‘I would just keep quiet, and maybe some good will come out of it.’ “I had known Andrew for a long time,” said Josh, “and he was one of the most competent, resourceful people I’d ever met. He was always out there fighting for equality and demanding change so the LGBT community could have a voice and representation on campus.” Later on, after speaking with Andrew personally, Josh asserted, “I have no doubt in my mind that, literally, the reason that he’s not there today is … that the University does not want anyone knowing about the actual problems that exist on campus with the students, the faculty and the administration.” Josh contacted the student newspaper about it and was told that it was a “personnel” issue. “There were articles in the Journal for Higher Education and even the Brown University student Join Indigo Pizza on newspaper about it,” noted Josh. “I just think the University is trying its hardest to keep this as quiet as possible.” q
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“When there is no accountability,” said Winters, “anything can happen.” Things are not always as they seem, however. It gradually became clear to Winters that Friedman might not be leveling with him. It appeared she was reporting on him to the administration and even working with them to get him ousted. In fact it was she who gave him the “choice” of retirement. “It was not a choice,” says supporter Peter Nightingale, a URI physics professor. “It was a contract signed under duress.” Coincidentally, Options’ interview with Winters and Nightingale fell on the oneyear anniversary of Occupy Wall Street, and the comparisons were hard to miss. It seemed a case of a large institution running
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Not surprisingly, it is a long and complicated story, with twists and turns that would make your head spin. One such twist was the arrival on campus of a new staffer, a lesbian named Kathryn Friedman, who was hired prior to Winters’ retirement as a liaison of sorts between the LGBT Center and University President Dooley. Initially, Winters was glad to have her on board. So was Options; we ran a profile of her when she was hired. Friedman took Winters into her confidence, warning him of a plot to discredit him on the part of certain administrators, and making him feel comfortable with her as an ally.
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There have been numerous calls for an explanation. In The Providence Journal, Bob Kerr wrote: “Winters’s departure from URI this year has some wondering if the university simply wanted him to go away and take all those concerns about the treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students with him.” Bob Thayer wrote: “Last February, chaplains of the University of Rhode Island honored gay and lesbian students for raising awareness of inequities on campus during a much publicized sit-in at the library. The students, in turn, surprised their adviser, Andrew Winters, with their own Certificate of Service and Admirable Citizenship, which recognized him as their advocate. But three weeks later, Winters, assistant to the vice president for student affairs, received a blistering letter of reprimand from Kathryn A. Friedman, interim associate vice president for equity and diversity.” In an article in the Brown Daily Herald, Professor Nightingale is quoted as saying that, although President Dooley claimed that Winters left voluntarily, realistically it was the same kind of “voluntarily” as one might use to describe a person accepting the protection of the mob. He called Friedman’s letter an act of “bullying,” and stated that a group of faculty members had called for a full investigation of the circumstances behind his resignation, to which they received no response. Winters has appealed to the Human Rights Campaign to help by making some public appeal for an investigation. In a touch of irony, he discovered that Kathryn Friedman was working at the HRC, as the director of the National Workforce Project. When he asked them to make a public statement, they responded by saying that Friedman was no longer with the organization, but they have not been forthcoming with any public statement. Winters has now filed an appeal with the Board of Governors of Higher Education. q
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The comparison to the Penn State child sexual abuse scenario was drawn in our interview as well. “When there is no accountability,” said Winters, “anything can happen.”
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roughshod, while good people were being stamped out for bringing systemic problems to light. Many of those to whom Winters turned for support opted not to be involved for fear of retaliation. Some of them advised Winters to keep quiet. When he did not, he was marginalized; he was marginalized for talking about marginalization.
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AIDS Community Watch
TAKE CHARGE! GET TESTED!
Looking for a Few Good (Gay) Men to Talk Over Dinner at CAV Restaurant Thomas Bertrand
FREE, painless, rapid, anonymous HIV testing. Now offering individual and couples testing.
Ever wonder what’s going on with gay men’s health and wellness programs in Rhode Island? Did you know that Rhode Island has seen significant increases in HIV in recent years, while rates in Massachusetts are dropping? Why isn’t this talked about? Why isn’t anyone doing something about it? Where’s the plan?
Visit: www.aidsprojectri.org
takecharge@aidsprojectri.org Call: (401) 207-8377
A plan is being developed by AIDS Project Rhode Island (APRI) and other community partners, but we need your input and your ideas, to make sure it meets your needs. Please consider joining us at a Rhode Island Gay/Bisexual Men’s Health and Wellness Community Forum tentatively planned for the evening of Wednesday, October 24 at CAV restaurant in Providence. The forum will be an opportunity to comment on APRI’s strategic plan, give input on the “look and feel” of a health/wellness website for gay men in Rhode Island, and learn about staying healthy, as well as current updates in HIV care/treatment. This is a free event with free food and an opportunity to
CHILDREN ADOLESCENTS ADULTS
Depression ADHD Anxiety Self-esteem Study Skills/ Time Management
socialize. In order to attend, you must register and complete a quick survey by contacting Tom Bertrand at Thomas@aidsprojectri. org. Seating is limited to 50 participants. We hope men of all ages will join us. A special thanks to Gilead for their support of this event.
New Boyfriend? Congratulations! Protect Each Other. Take Charge! Get Tested! Getting a new boyfriend is usually a great time for new fun, discovery, and exploration. Growing closer includes greater intimacy on many levels – emotionally, physically, and sexually. Almost all guys come to an intersection in their relationship where the question of HIV status is at least thought about, but not always discussed. Lingering doubts, questions and concerns about a partner’s HIV status can impact how the relationship grows. APRI recently rolled out its couples rapid HIV testing program to help men in relaSTEPPING UPwork together tionships (both new and old) STEPPING OUT to stay healthy. The program involves hav-
A benefit for Youth Pride, Inc.
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Friday, November 2, 2012 Providence Biltmore Hotel october 2012 11 Dorrance Street
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STEPPING UP Friday, November 2, 2012 STEPPING OUT Providence Biltmore Hotel 11 Dorrance Street benefit for Youth Pride, Inc. Providence, RI 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Honorary Chair: Kitty Litter Founders Award: Michael Fournier 18Lipsky/Whittaker Award: New Urban Arts & Inspiring Minds
ing guys in relationships come in for a rapid HIV test and go through the entire testing process together, including receiving their test results at the same time in the same room. According to Tom Bertrand, APRI’s Executive Director and a HIV test counselor, the program has been very successful. “Every couple I have tested has been quite happy they came in for the test. They leave with a peace of mind knowing their HIV status and a feeling that their relationship has moved to a new level of trust and intimacy. ” The rapid HIV test itself takes about 20 minutes. It’s free and painless, like rubbing a Popsicle stick on your gums. While waiting for the test results, couples have a chance to talk about their relationship and ask questions of the test counselor. All testing is done in a private room and the test is completely anonymous. The testing is done by APRI staff who are themselves gay men. Testing is done on a walk-in basis every Tuesday from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at APRI’s office at 404 Wickenden Street, Providence. Additionally, testing is done any day of the week by appointment. APRI also does testing at the Megaplex – call them to find out the next testing date. More information is available at www.aidsprojectri.org.
Planning with Pride Did you know that same-sex couples face higher costs of living than those in a federally recognized marriage? Retirement and long term care planning needs of LGBT boomers vary significantly from those of the general aging population. There are many ways for domestic partners to protect their rights and wishes with proper advanced planning. To learn about the important financial issues that uniquely affect the LGBT community, contact me to set up a free initial consultation.
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Let the Bidding Begin! Kalene Brennan The 16th Annual AIDS Care Ocean State (ACOS) ArtBeat Auction is here, and the online auction is open for bidding! Visit our website at www.biddingforgood.com/ artbeat today to bid on your favorite items and preview the live auction items. We update the site daily, so check back often so you aren’t outbid! You can also preview some of our live auction items, like featured artist Dennis Coelho’s piece “Ice Castles,” and featured designer Jonathan Joseph Peters’ custom couture gown! Don’t forget to purchase your tickets to the live gala event on Friday, October 19 at the Providence Biltmore Hotel. Tickets are just $45 and can be purchased at www. aidscareos.org. We’re pleased to have Roz
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Welcoming LGBT professionals and their friends
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www.TGInetwork.org
Join us for the 14th Annual International
Transgender Day of Remembrance A community event to remember those we have lost due to anti-transgender bias, prejudice or hatred. All are welcome.
Wednesday, November 28th at 6:30pm
Rustigian of Rustigian Rugs as our Honorary Chair; Kim Zandy from 92PRO FM and Miss Kitty Litter are returning as our celebrity auctioneers! There will be many tempting auction items to choose from, and all proceeds benefit the clients of ACOS. For more information regarding ArtBeat, please call Kalene Brennan at 521-3603. Happy bidding everyone!
Bell Street Chapel
Fall Clean Out
(5 Bell Street, Providence, RI)
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ACOS wants your stuff! Now that it’s fall, we bet many of you have cleaned out your closets in preparation for the colder weather. ACOS’s Donation Center is now accepting donations of fall and winter clothing, furniture, and other household items. Our Donation Center hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Center is closed on Thursdays. You can drop your items off to our Donation Center at 557 Broad Street in Providence, or we can arrange to come and pick up your items. To schedule a pickup, please call us at 781-5565. ACOS wishes everyone a happy fall!
Know Your Status… Get Tested
ACOS offers free, anonymous and confidential HIV and Hepatitis C testing at our Prevention Center at 557 Broad Street in Providence. We also offer FREE Hepatitis A and B vaccinations, condoms, and safe-sex kits. Our walk-in hours are: Mon.: 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Tues.: 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wed.: 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Thurs.: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Fri.: Please call for an appointment
For additional testing times and locations, or to schedule an appointment, please call our Prevention Center at 781-0665 or e-mail info@aidscareos.org. q
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News Briefs continued from page 3
Gay, Anti-Abortion National Party Platform In one of the bluest states in the nation, the state Republican Party was on the verge last month of embracing the national party platform as its own, one of the most conservative in modern history. In particular, the platform reaffirms that the party doesn’t support marriage equality, and it calls for a ban on access to abortion, with no exception for rape and incest victims. The Massachusetts Republican Party platform currently has no such planks and focuses less on social issues generally.
Happy Anniversary DADT After the first anniversary of the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell on September 20, President Obama issued a statement part of which included the following:
The platform is particularly uncomfortable for Sen. Scott Brown (R-Mass.), who considers himself pro-choice.
“ As Commander in chef, I’ve seen that our National security has been strengthened because we are no longer denied the skills and talents of those patriotic Americans who happen to be gay or lesbian.” Advocates applauded the anniversary. OUTserve co-founder, Air Force 1st Lt. Josh Siegfried said, “Now we are able to be honest about who we are, and despite what opponents predicted, that has improved unit cohesion, not harmed it. We don’t have to look over our shoulders in fear that we will discharged from the military we love simply for being gay, lesbian or bisexual.”
Lesbian Breasts Is there a link between lesbianism and breast cancer? Lesbians might suffer breast cancer at a higher rate than other women because of higher rates of smoking, alcoholism and obesity in the lesbian community, experts say. Some of these health problems might be triggered by the stigma of being a lesbian, says Liz Margolies, executive director of the National LGBT Cancer Network. Lesbians also are less likely to get screened for breast cancer or pay close attention to breast health, Margolies said. q
Gemma’s Staffer’s Tweet “Inappropriate?” Out Rep. David Cicilline (D-R.I.) defeated his challenger, Anthony Gemma, to win the Democratic nomination to continue to represent our state’s 1st Congressional District in the U.S. House. He drew 61 % of the vote.
Know your status.
Sexual orientation came up in the race when an unpaid Gemma campaign staffer sent out a tweet comparing Cicilline to convicted child molester Jerry Sandusky. The staffer agreed to leave the campaign and a Gemma staffer reportedly said the tweet was “inappropriate.” Cicilline now faces Republican Brendan Doherty, a retired highranking police officer and former superintendant of R.I. Dept of Public Safety. Doherty is a supporter of DOMA.
Clergy Support Equal Marriage Rights In the week of September 18, a group of pastors from around the U.S. rallied in support of equal right to marry for same-sex couples. The intention of the group was to dispel the idea that all black pastors are against this vital step towards equal rights for LBGT people. In a statement, the group said, “The impression that all African-American pastors are fundamentally opposed to the idea of marriage equality is wrong.” Another goal was to make clear that any church that chooses not to officiate same-sex marriages would not be affected by the potential change of law. This is in regard to a referendum in Maryland in November.
Call AIDS Care Ocean State’s Prevention Office at 401-781-0665 to schedule an appointment for FREE anonymous and confidential HIV and HEP C testing.
Get tested.
Massachusetts GOP Weighs Embracing Antioptions
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The RI Democratic LGBTQ Caucus Anthony DeRose
ge of n a h C ss addre
401-434-1553
BRUCE J. THOMPSON, Ph.D. 410 Broadway East Providence, Rhode Island PsychotherapyfgGay Men (...reconstruction... fine tuning...)
please show your support for this important community resource donate /advertise info@optionsri.org
options
Voters and candidates alike are now in the midst of the final stretch of the 2012 election season. The time until November 6 is now measured in days rather than weeks and months. Voters in this country – and more importantly Rhode Island – will once again cast their ballots to decide the future of their city or town, state, and country. The Rhode Island Democratic Party LGBTQ Caucus has been hard at work mobilizing those voters because much is at stake this election. Here in Rhode Island, marriage equality is at stake. We must continue to be engaged in getting out in our neighborhoods, knocking on doors and having serious discussions with our fellow Rhode Islanders about the issues that face our state and helping those pro-equality candidates on the ballot get elected. If not, we could potentially lose the chance of winning same-sex marriage in the General Assembly next year. I’m confident we won’t; however, we can’t sit on the sidelines and watch. We all need to get to work! In this presidential election, and in congressional races across the country, there are clear choices for the LGBTQ community. With President Obama, we have the staunchest advocate for gay rights and equality that we have ever had in a president and electing his GOP opponent would have severe backlash on our community. Governor Romney has said he would roll back the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and support an amendment to the Constitution recognizing marriage as between one man and one woman. We cannot afford to elect anti-gay Republicans, or Democrats for that matter, into public office anymore. We need Democrats elected who will stand up and
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fight for equal justice under the law and guaranteed to us in the Constitution. After all, life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, right? One of the easiest ways to get involved is by attending one of our meetings and sharing with us your ideas and concerns. The caucus meets every first and third Tuesday of every month at 6:00 pm at the Rhode Island Democratic Party offices at 151 Broadway, Suite 310 in Providence, RI. We are also proud to announce the Rhode Island Democratic Party LGBTQ Caucus will be sponsoring a game in October’s Gay Bingo organized by AIDS Care Ocean State. Please come out and join us at this fun event supporting a great cause. The most helpful way to get involved this election cycle is volunteering for a candidate that will best represent your interests in office. There are many strong Democratic candidates running for office this election cycle and many of them face difficult races. The outcome of more than one election in this state will be the result of which candidate had a great support team to help them reach their constituents. The RIDP LGBTQ Caucus encourages you to get involved in those races and make a difference! Contact the caucus and we will give you any and all information needed for any candidate at any level running in Rhode Island. Please email bcollins@ridemocrats.org or call (401) 272-3367. Remember, it is crucial that we elect candidates that will represent our community in our local, state, and federal government. Take the decision into your own hands and cast your vote on November 6! q
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Rhode Island Pride Jennifer Stevens
Rhode Island Pride’s annual fall celebration, formerly called the Spotlight Awards and now called RI Pride Honors, will acknowledge outstanding community members for their contributions. It will take place on Sunday, October 7, in the Hope Artiste Village Greenhouse, just a short walk down the hall from the Pride Center at 1005 Main St., Pawtucket. Local restaurants such as Blaze, Waterplace, The Melting Pot, Viva Mexico, and Marriott Downtown will offer samples of their tasty cuisine, while RI Pride bartenders mix up festive and fabulous cocktails. Performances and special guests will add to the entertainment, and your host for the evening will be local comedian John Kelley. RI Pride is proud to award our highest honor, the 2012 Pyramid of Pride, to retiring State Senator and legislative hero Rhoda Perry for her tireless efforts to bring LGBT equality to our community. The Spirit Award will be presented to Devioune Mayim-Daviau of Mister Sister as a community educator, resource and supporter. Pride Parade Awards will be presented to Extraordinary Rendition Band, RKO Army, GirlSpot, Dark Lady/Alley Cat, Youth Pride Inc. and Hush. Rhode Island Pride Honors is presented by AIDS Care Ocean State and Gentry Moving. Sponsors include: Edwards Wildman, Beth & Russ Milham, Marriage Equality RI, PFLAG of Greater Providence, Providence Gay Men’s Chorus, Rep. Frank Ferri and Town Hall Lanes. For more information visit www.prideri. com. To purchase tickets or sponsorships visit www.ripridehonors2012. AIDS Care Ocean State presents... eventbrite.com. q The 16th Annual ArtBeat Auction Friday, October 19, 2012 The Providence Biltmore Hotel 11 Dorrance Street in downtown Providence
Check out our Online Auction to bid early!
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Kerri Kanelos
Purchase Tickets to Youth Pride Inc.’s Annual Event
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Get Involved!
Please join us on Friday, November 2, for Youth Pride Inc.’s annual fundraiser, “Stepping Up, Stepping Out!” For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit youthprideri. eventbrite.com.
GLAD Training on LGBTQ Youth Rights Youth ages 13 to 23—come to the YPI drop-in center on Monday, October 15, at 5:30 p.m. for an important workshop about your rights! LGBTQ students deserve to be able to take full advantage of their education, to attend school in safety, to participate fully in classes and activities, and to have their whole selves treated with respect. This is an interactive workshop where attorneys from Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) will engage students in
a presentation and discussion of their legal rights in schools.
Transgender Day of Remembrance The annual observance of Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) will take place on Wednesday, November 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Bell Street Chapel in Providence. The event is being coordinated by Youth Pride, Inc and TGI Network of Rhode Island, with the help of the TDOR planning committee. The event will consist of two parts. At 6:30 p.m., there will be a ceremony in the Chapel’s sanctuary with speakers, music, time for reflection and recognition of the lives of those we have lost this year. Following the ceremony, there will be a panel discussion with members of Rhode Island’s transgender community in the Chapel’s hall with time for socializing, refreshments and sharing of resources. q
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Marriage Equality RI Cathy Robinson
Fox’s commitment to calling a vote, and the opportunity to win several races in November, we expect there will be a General Assembly vote on marriage equality in 2013, and we need everyone to join us to make sure we win.
What an exciting time for Fight Back RI and Marriage Equality RI, after endorsing nineteen candidates and winning nine races in the recent primaries. Sen. Mike Pinga was knocked off the ballot, and we helped move Ryan Pearson on to the general election. We brought marriage equality into the forefront and found more supporters, including Sen. Dan DaPonte and Sen. Elizabeth Crowley, who said they would vote for marriage equality. To add to this, Sen. Paul Jabour, who states he is personally opposed to marriage equality, said he will vote for it if demanded by his constituents. Fight Back RI helped win seven House seats, including Handy, O’Neill, Amore, and Abney. Marriage equality champion Art Handy not only won but also dominated in the primary election. This is noteworthy since he has been the prime House sponsor of the marriage bill for 10 years, and his opponent was running on an anti-equality platform. Marvin Abney soundly defeated Dave Carlin in the race for District 73; Carlin is well known for the homophobic stances that he has made clear through many books and articles. While we wish we could have won all 19 of the races, Fight Back RI Campaign Director Ray Sullivan stated, “The gains equality supporters achieved in this election are nothing less than remarkable.” The momentum has started; we are now ramping up to the general election on November 6. Going into the primary, Fight Back RI proved to be an aggressive and viable political force that will only increase in the upcoming weeks. We will keep fighting for equality. Senate Judiciary Chair Michael McCaffrey said on WPRI’s Sunday Newsmakers program that he has “no problem” with calling a vote in the Judiciary Committee. We will hold him to this.
Fight Back RI is the campaigning arm of Marriage Equality RI. We need YOU to help to keep Fighting Back. Join us on facebook.com/FightBackRI or Twitter @FightBackRI. q
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ur The THIRD Thursday of EVERY MONTH! Miss hostess, Kitty Litter Doors open at 6pm, Bingo starts at 7pm SHARP! ! The Riviera Bingo Palace 1612 Elmwood Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 $20 to play, 18+ event
Official Ball Puller, Haley Star!
Visit www.aidscareos.org for monthly themes!
The path to 19 votes in the Senate is real. With Sept. 11’s electoral gains, Speaker
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SAGE/RI
tgi network of rhode island education • advocacy • support
for transgender • intersex gender-variant • transsexual genderqueer • people and those who love them
Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders
Look Out World; SAGE/RI is Coming Your Way! Sally Ann Hay
Please email info@tginetwork.org for more information.
www.tginetwork.org
Coming Out Party
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Visible Lives
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Now that we have become an affiliate of SAGE/USA (and can legally call ourselves by the name we’ve used all along, SAGE/ RI), it’s time to celebrate! Please plan to join us for our Coming Out Party, to be held at Roots Cultural Center (also known as Roots Café) on Sunday, October 28, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. We’re so excited! While you are enjoying appetizers and desserts (along with coffee, tea and a cash bar), we’ll fill you in on all that we have accomplished this past year and, more importantly, get your input about what SAGE/RI can become as we go forward. (For those who are interested, as our Coming Out party winds down, Roots Café will be getting ready for their Sunday night Blues & Jazz Jam.)
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SAGE/RI will present a health care conference, “Visible Lives: Caring for LGBT Elders,” on Wednesday, October 24 in Providence, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dr. Patricia Burbank will be our keynote speaker, and Marcia Blair will present on culturally competent care. The conference, made possible by a grant from the Equity Action Fund of the Rhode Island Foundation, will appeal to medical personnel working in a variety of settings and will offer participants tools and resources they can use in their
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work with older LGBT patients. Space is limited, and we expect to fill up – if you are interested in registration information, drop us a line at sageriinfo@gmail.com. CEUs will be available.
Senior Expo We’ve worked over the past year to develop alliances with other LGBT community groups and have made a commitment to also reach out to mainstream groups addressing issues of aging in Rhode Island. The Senior Agenda Coalition, a diverse group of activists and groups that advocate for elder Rhode Islanders, seems like a great fit, and we are pleased to join them. As a member of the Coalition, we will be a part of the Fifth Annual Senior Conference & Expo, which is being held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick on Friday, November 2, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If you are going to the Expo (information at www. senioragendari.org), look for SAGE/RI! Stay tuned… we are working on a website – things are getting pretty interesting around here! SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) addresses issues of concern to LGBT elders and is an organization of diverse people of all ages. For information on programs or to join SAGE/RI, drop us a line at sageriinfo@gmail.com or find us on Facebook as Sage/Rhode Island.
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Resources Help us help you: If you come across a resource listing that is incorrect or needs updating, please let us know! Drop a line to mshays@verizon.net. NOTE: All phone numbers are in the 401 area code unless otherwise indicated.
AA: Brothers in Sobriety, Community Church of Prov., Wayland & Lloyd Aves., Prov., 751-9328; Sat., 7:30-8:30 p.m.; Central Services, info on all groups, 438-8860; Lesbian and Gay, Anchor Recovery Center, 249 Main St., Pawtucket, Tues. 7:30 p.m.; Suburban Gay & Lesbian, Fatima Shrine, Rt. 126, Holliston, MA, Thurs. 8-9:30 p.m. Alcohol/Drug Helpline. RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, 24-hr., (866) 252-3784. Gay Al-Anon: Tues. 7:30 p.m., Congregational Church, 71 Park Place, Pawtucket, 726-2800.
AIDS/Health Resources Afia Center for Health & Wholeness: socializing with other HIV+ individuals. Meals, food pantry, HIV support groups, recovery groups, recreational and social activities. Wed & Thurs, noon to 4 p.m., at Matthewson St. Church, 134 Matthewson St., Prov. Sponsored by AIDS Project RI; free to clients. Gordon Cooper, 331-1350 Ext. 3268 or coopergo@familyserviceofri.org. AIDS Action Hotline: (800) 235-2331, MA only. AIDS Care Ocean State (557 Broad St., Providence): case mgmt., emergency funds, mental health & nutrition support, FACTS Nursery, housing for PWAs, referrals, advocacy, ADa.m.S Clinic for adolescents, street outreach, ENCORE, education, HIV+ support groups. Sunrise Community Housing for people with HIV/AIDS. 18 Parkis Ave., Prov. 02907. 521-3603; www.aidscareos.org. AIDS Project RI Division of Family Service of RI: Case mgmt., buddies, COBRA & dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment & referral, wellness prog., advocacy, strength training. Prevention Ed. 404 Wickenden St., Providence: 831-5522. AIDS Quilt RI: Displays local AIDS Memorial Quilt panels; panel-making programs, including Anna’s Workshop, HIV/AIDS education for young people; PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 4344880; www.aidsquiltri.org; admin@aidsquiltri.
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MA. Contact Joe Taylor (508) 984-7514.
org; annasworkshop@aidsquiltri.org.
Addiction Support Groups
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Chiropractic Services: Free for unemployed HIV+ patients, Ronald P. Marsh, DC., 11 King Charles Dr., Portsmouth, RI; 683-1941.
Partners in Learning About AIDS (PL-AIDS) Outreach to minorities, women of color, and LGBT community at clubs and other locations, and our No. Providence office, providing free condoms and information about STIs and post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. www.plaidsproject.org or www.pl-aids.org. Email info@plaidsproject.org. 305-3993.
Comprehensive Community Action Programs (CCAP) Medical, mental health, dental, social services. 311 Doric Ave., Cranston. 467-9610. Also Coventry and Warwick. Sarah Bowman, LGBT Outreach.
Project ACT: Free Anonymous HIV Counseling and Testing. Walk-in Hours: Mondays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Other hours by appointment only. 1 Washington St., Taunton, MA (508) 977-8146
Crossroads RI Health Care Services: Free, confidential, anonymous HIV counseling & testing for homeless/at risk: Mon & Wed, 1-3 p.m., call Gloria, 521-2255, Ext. 325.
Project Empower: Wellness prog. for gay, bi, questioning men in So. Coast MA. Info on HIV/ STD test sites & safe sex; social/support groups, therapists & health care referrals; & more. Community Counseling of Bristol Co., MA. (508) 828-6692 or www.projectempower.com.
Brown Univ. AIDS Program (BRUNAP): clinical trials, public policy, research; lectures/conferences, patient/community education. Bradford Briggs, 863-6790. brunap@brown.edu; www.brown. edu/brunap.
FACTS (Family AIDS Center for Treatment & Support): See AIDS Care Ocean State. Gabriel Care, LLC: Nursing/social worker case mgmt. & financial compensation for assistance and supervision for those living with HIV. MA Health funded for MA residents. Michael (508) 678-1002. HIV antibody testing, Anonymous: R.I. Dept. of Health, Prov., Newport and other locations, Free or sliding scale, call 222-2320. Home and Hospice Care of RI: Medical care mgmt. for HIV/AIDS. 24-hr. nursing staff for treatment. 782-0725. Bereavement Groups: John Charette, 727-7079. HPV study for gay/bi men ages 18 -- 26. Receive free HPV vaccine and HIV testing. Must be HIVnegative. Call Gail at Miriam Hospital (7934335) or Email gyates@lifespan.org. House of Compassion: HIV/AIDS housing. 2510 Mendon Rd., Cumberland. 658-3992.
SSTAR (Stanley St. Treatment & Resources): counseling, drug treatment, detox, domestic violence programs; Free, confidential HIV, HEP C (HCV) & STD testing, education, case mgmt. and support. 386 Stanley St., Fall River, MA 02720. (508) 679-5222. Project Aware (HIV/ HCV) (800) 937-3610, Family Healthcare center (508) 675-1054; www.sstar.org. Tranquil Mind & Wellness: Counseling, alternative healing, yoga, Pilates, meditation and more. 105 Charles Eldridge Dr, Lakeville, MA. (508) 9471683. Thundermist Health Assoc.: 450 Clinton St. Woonsocket, provides HIV/AIDS services including: medical care & treatment by an HIV specialist, dental care, behavioral health counseling, nutritional assessment & counseling, pharmacy consultation, free, confidential HIV testing. Philip Kane 767-4100 Ext. 3516.
Jewish AIDS Task Force: Programs for HIV/AIDS and Jewish communities. 421-4111, ext. 172. LGBT Caregiver Online Support Group for LGBTs caring for someone with chronic health problems, visit www.caregiver.org and click on groups. Luis E. Martinez House CHS, Inc.: Supportive, permanent housing for 10 adults living with HIV/ AIDS and/or substance abuse. New Bedford,
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Be There and Be Queer! The Alley Cat/Dark Lady: 17 Snow St. Prov. 2730951 Downtown neighborhood bars. Sun.-Thur. 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 3 p.m.-2 a.m. http:// thealleycat.net. Bobby’s Place, 62 Weir St., Taunton, MA (508) 824-
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9997. Dancing, pool, video lounge, karaoke. Mon.-Thurs. 5 p.m.- 1 a.m.; Fri. 5 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 2 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun. 2 p.m.-1 a.m. www.BobbysPlaceMA.com. Brooklyn Coffee Tea House: 209 Douglas Ave., Prov. 575-2284. Special events space. Open mike First & Third Sat. of each month. Film screenings and other public/private events. See us on Facebook and at www.BrooklynCoffeeTeaHouse.com. Club Body Center: 257 Weybosset St., Prov. 2740298 www.clubbodycenter.com. Gay men’s sauna. Membership required. One-day pass available. Open 24 hours daily. Club Gallery, 681 Valley Street., Providence. DJ, dancing. Deville’s: 345 South Water St., Prov. Lesbian, gay, straight, it’s all good. 383-8883, www.devillescafe.com. Girl Spot in Providence: Every Saturday night Lesbian dance party at Platforms, 165 Poe Street, Providence. www.girlspotri.com Luna’s Ladies Night, Fridays 8 p.m. -- 1a.m. Female performers and DJs. 276 Westminster St., Providence. www.lunaspvd.com. Providence Eagle: 198 Union St., Prov. 421-1447. Leather, Levi, bear cruise bar. Sun-Thurs 3 p.m.1 a.m., Fri, Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m. Mega-Plex and Hush Providence: 257 Allens Ave., Prov. www.themega-plex.com. Gay men’s bathhouse. Open 24 hours daily. Membership required. One day pass available. The Stable: 125 Washington St., Prov. 272-6950. Newly renovated downtown bar. Pool table. Sun - Thurs noon - 1 a.m.; Fri - Sat noon - 2 a.m. Tommy’s Lounge Gay/Lesbian Night each Friday (21-plus) Doors open 8 p.m. Music from 80’s, 90’s and today’s hits on the video screen. $5.00 cover. 99 India Street, Pawtucket RI 02860 T.W.I.S.T. Program Coffee Night: Coffee, light snacks served every Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. 1287 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford. 508-672-0378. Union: 200 Union St. Prov. 831-5366. Video lounge, live entertainment. Sun. 6 p.m.-1 a.m., Mon.-Thur. 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 6 p.m.-2 a.m.
Information/Education Feminist Voices: women’s chorus. www.feministvoices.com. Fenway Gay and Lesbian Helpline: support, info & referrals for GLBT community from Fenway Community Health Ctr., Boston; (617) 267-9001 or 888-340-4528, 6-11 p.m. seven days a week.
02840; 847-7637.
sion list. To subscribe: tinawood@cox.net. United Way of RI Referral Line: 2-1-1 Youth Pride, Inc. HIV Peer Educators: discussion, games, thought-provoking and empowerment activities. Led by trained youth educators. Free. 421-5626.
Political & Legal Groups American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 831-7171; 128 Dorrance St., Suite 220, Prov., RI 02903. Amnesty International OUTfront: Program to campaign globally for LGBTIQ human rights. Cvohs18904@yahoo.com or 212-807-8400. Visit www.amnestyusa.org/Our Issues/LGBT Human Rights. BIGFLAG (Boston Immigration Group for Lesbians And Gays): social/support for LGBTs affected by immigration discrimination. (617) 499-9433. Brown University Queer Alliance: student advocacy and support organization. 683-3062. Email: queer@brown.edu Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): LGBT/HIV legal info hotline, 1:30-4:30 p.m. weekdays, (800) 455-GLAD. www.GLAD.org; 30 Winter St., Ste 800, Boston, MA 02108. Green Party of RI: PO Box 1151, Prov., RI 02901; 490-7602. Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall St., Suite 1500, NY, NY 10005; (212) 8098585, Fax: (212) 809-0055. Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD): Advocates for lgbt causes. lawyersforequality@gmail. com Marriage Equality RI (MERI): Works for equal access to marriage for all. www.marriageequalityri. org or call 941-2727. 118 No. Main St., Unit 3, Providence RI 02903. The Next Thing (TNT): political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. Contact the Brown Queer Alliance, 8633062. RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: hate crime awareness training program www.hatecrimeri. org. RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit, 180 Westminster St., 3rd floor Prov. Phone: 222-2662. Fax: 222-2616, TDD: 2222664.
Religious Resources Amicable Congregational Church (UCC), 3736 Main Rd., Tiverton. Open & Affirming. Sunday worship 10:00 a.m. Pastor William Sterrett, 624-4611. Email amicablechurch@aol.com Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists, email: mail@WABaptists.org. Barrington Congregational Church (UCC) “the white church”, 461 Old County Rd., Barrington. 246-0111.www.bccucc.org Bell Street Chapel (Unitarian Universalist), A Welcoming congregation: 5 Bell St., Prov., 2735678, www.bellstreetchapel.org. Beneficent Congregational Church (UCC), in the heart of Providence at 300 Weybosset St. An Open & Affirming congregation since 2001. Visit us Sundays at 10 a.m. or on the Web at www.beneficentchurch.org. Co-Pastors Todd & Nicole Yonkman, 331-9844. Calvary Episcopal Church, Open and welcoming. 158 Broad St., Burrilville, RI. 568-3888. www. calvaryepiscopal.us.email, calvary125@aol.com. Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Rd., Middletown, RI 02842. 8476181. Ask Amy about LGBTQ Early Dementia support group. Central Congregational Church (UCC), where we believe God is still speaking. Services Sunday, 10:30 a.m. An Opening & Affirming Congregation. 296 Angell St., East Side of Providence. 331-1960. www.centralchurch.us. Channing Memorial Church, Unitarian Universalist, A Welcoming Congregation, 135 Pelham St., Newport. Call 846-0643 or visit www.channingchurch.org. Christ Church in Lonsdale (Episcopal), 1643 Lonsdale Ave., Lincoln. Services 8 and 10:30 a.m. www.christchurchlincoln.org. 725-1920. Church of the Epiphany, 1336 Pawtucket Ave., Rumford. 434-5012. A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. www.epiphanyep.org Church of the Holy Paraclete, Independent Old Catholic; Mass every Sunday at 6 p.m. 155 Douglas Ave., Providence. http://holyparaclete. org; Fr. Jakob Lazarus 218-0706. Emmanuel Episcopal Church. 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland RI 02864. 658-1506.
RI Patient Advocacy Coalition: legalization of marijuana use for medical purposes. www.RIpatients.org.
First Congregational Church in Bristol, an Open and Affirming Congregation. 281 High Street, Bristol. Pastor Dan Randall, 253-7288. First Unitarian Church. A Welcoming congregation at One Benevolent St., Prov.; 421-7970. Services Sunday 10:30 a.m.
NewportOut.com: LGBT Web site for Newport, RI.
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network: Assisting active duty service members affected by the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. PO Box 65301, Wash., DC, 20035; (202) 328-3244, ext. 100, sldn@sldn.org, www.sldn.org.
RILGBT-NEWS: Low-volume email distribution list for LGBT & AIDS news from RI. Not a discus-
Straight But Not Narrow Coalition: Straight support for LGBT, PO Box 2591, Newport, RI
First Universalist Society, Franklin, MA: UUA Welcoming congregation. Same-gender weddings.
GLBT National Help Center Hotline. Local resources nationwide provided by social services agency. 888-843-4564. www.GLBTNationalHelpcenter.org.
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First Unitarian Church. 71 8th St., New Bedford, MA 02740. (508) 994-9686.
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262 Chestnut St. (508) 528-5348. www.fusf.org. Email fusf@verizon.net
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 50 Park Place, Pawtucket. 728-4300. www.stpaulspawtucket.org
Foxboro Universalist Church, Unitarian Universalist Association. 6 Bird St., Foxboro, MA 02035. Pastor Katie Lawson, 508-543-4002. Welcoming congregation, marriage ceremonies. www.uufoxborough.org
St. Paul’s Church, a Welcoming Episcopal church. 2679 E. Main St., Portsmouth. 862-1466. www. stpaulsportsmouthri.org
Grace Episcopal Church in Providence, 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225. Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation, 647 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA 02703. (508) 222-2898, www.immanuellc.org. Interweave at Channing UU Church in Newport (135 Pelham St.) A membership organization for the spiritual, political and social well-being of LGBTQ persons -- and their allies -- confronting oppression. 846-0643. Mathewson St. Church (United Methodist), 134 Mathewson St., Prov., 331-8900. Mercy of God Community: Christian, inclusive religious order. If you feel called, please visit our Web site: www.mgc.org. Murray Unitarian Universalist Church, 505 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA, 02702 Rev. Sandra D. Fitz-Henry. Marriage & commitment ceremonies for all. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org Newman Congregational Church, Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Ave., Rumford, RI. 43114742. Newport Congregational Church: UCC. Rev. Hayes & Rev. Baker. Open & Affirming. 73 Pelham St., Newport. 849-2238 or nccucc@newportcongregationalchurch.org. Park Place Congregational Church, 71 Park Pl., Pawtucket, 726-2800. The Pub Church: A church that meets in a pub! Saturdays, 5 p.m. at The Dugout, 722 Commonwealth Ave. Boston. Open & Affirming. Email thepubchurch@gmail.com. Location may change.
St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church: 25 Pomona Ave., Prov.; 272-9649. Email.stpanda25@ verizon.net. www.stpetersandstandrews.org. Saint Therese Old Catholic Church, Open & Affirming, Sunday Mass at 10:30 p.m. at 134 Mathewson St., Providence. Fr. David Martins, 263-4296. www.saintthereseocc.org Second Congregational Church of Attleboro (UCC) Open & Affirming. 50 Park Street, Attleboro, MA. Sunday worship 10 a.m. (508) 222-4677, www.attleborosecondchurch.org Seekonk Congregational Church: 600 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, MA. 02771, (508) 336-9355, Rev. Joy Utter, www.scc-ucc.com. Temple Agudas Achim: GLBT-friendly, Reconstructionist cong. Rabbi Elyse Wechterman. 901 No. Main St., Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2243 or www.agudasma.org. Temple Beth-El: GLBT-welcoming. Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Ave., Prov., RI 02906. 3316070 Temple Emanu-El, Sessions St. & Morris Ave., Providence. A welcoming Conservative congregation. Rabbi Wayne Franklin, 331-1616. www. teprov.org Temple Habonim (Reform): Rabbi Andrew Klein, 165 New Meadow Rd., Barrington, 245-6536. www.templehabonim.org. Temple Sinai: A Welcoming Reform Temple. Rabbi Peter Stein, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston, RI. 9428350. www.TempleSinairi.org. Unitarian Society of Fairhaven (MA): 102 Green St., Fairhaven, MA 02719; (508) 992-7081. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of So. County: 27 North Rd., Peace Dale, RI; 783-4170 or Val 789-7282. www.uusouthcountyri.org.
Pilgrim Lutheran Church, an inclusive congregation: 1817 Warwick Ave., Warwick. 739-2937
United Church of Christ: Coalition for LGBT Concerns. 13 Steven Circle, S. Kingstown, RI 02883, Ray Bradley at 782-3871.
Pilgrim United Church of Christ. Open and affirming. 635 Purchase St., New Bedford. 508-9975684.
Westminster Unitarian/Universalist Church: 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich, RI 02818. 884-5933
Riverside Church (U.C.C.) 15 Oak Ave., Riverside, RI. 433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 35 Lower College Rd., Kingston. 783-2153 www.staugustineURI.com. St. Francis City Ministry at the Church of St. Mary, 535 Broadway, Prov. Office of LGBT Outreach 353-1422 St. James Church: Episcopal, 474 Fruit Hill Ave., No. Prov. 353-2079. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 50 Orchard St. East side of Prov., 751-2141 St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: County & River Sts., New Bedford, MA. (508) 994-8972, stmartins1887@aol.com.
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Social Organizations Atheists/Agnostics: RI Atheist Society – “Working to keep Church and State separate” Welcoming all. Meets 3rd Monday of the month at an area restaurant for lively discussions among likeminded people. For info: www.RIatheist.net Bisexual Resource Center: 29 Stanhope St., Boston, (617) 424-9595 or www.biresource.net. Biversity Boston: Mixed-sex social network. Bimonthly brunches and other social events. http://biversity.org.
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Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches, coming out groups, and quarterly newsletter “Bi Woman.” Subscribe at www.biwomenboston.org. Bears Ocean State (BOS): Informal e-group for gay & bisexual bear-identified and -affiliated men for friendly companionship. All welcome. http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/bearsoceanstate or bearsoceanstate-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. Age-restricted. Bridgewater State College GLBT Alumni Group: email Kenneth Hayes (‘91) khayesbbc@msn.com or visit www.bridgew.edu. Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGYA): (508) 778-7744. CORISMA: Gay and lesbian couples of RI and Southeast MA. Potluck get-togethers for couples only. For info or to be added to email list write: corismainfo@comcast.net. www.corismagroup. org Defenders/Providence: Leather/Levi club, c/o PO Box 41153, Prov., RI 02940. Third Sun at 6 p.m. Fall River’s Rainbow Girls: private, moderated welcoming group for women in the Fall River Area. groups.yahoo.com/group/ Fall_River_Rainbow_Grrls. Gay Lesbian Alliance of Newport County Etc. (GLANCE): Social and entertainment events. E-mail glance1234@hotmail.com. Gay Dads Group: Meets monthly for socializing and support. E-mail serrel30@aol.com. Imperial Court of RI at Prov: Male, female, drag king & queen performers raise funds for local charities. Meetings 1st Mon. of month, all welcome. PO Box 6583, Prov., RI 02904;www. icriprov.org. Lesbian Writers Group, Rochambeau Library, Hope St., Providence. Mondays 7 -- 8:30 p.m. Writing exercises, support. No critiquing or workshopping. Free. Russian or Computer Room. Men’s Card Group: New group in formation. E-mail johninprov@gmail.com or call John 261-9715. Men’s Gay Camping: In RI, CT, MA. Gatherings organized for tents to RVs during Spring, Summer and Fall 2012. www.webspawner.com/users/gaycamping/index.html or call 277-0075 or email gaycamping@gmx.com. Mixed Borders Gardening Group: Gardening and more! Monthly meetings, all welcome! For more information: www.MixedBorders.com or E-Mail Mixedborders@cox.net Opera Club: last Sunday of each month at 1:00 p.m. Enjoy hearing and attending. Email Dave at BrettCornellpi4@aol.com Pawtuxet Pride: GLBTQ folks & friends in Pawtuxet Village (Cranston and beyond). All welcome. Call Ed at 345-1264 or email EDZL@aol.com. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus: Mon, 7-9:30 p.m., Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset St, Prov.. New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and nonsinging volunteers welcome. www.provgmc.org.
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Queer Book Club. Meets 3rd Wednesday 7 p.m. at Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. Email queerbookclub@gmail.com. Raging Grannies: Women of “a certain age” working toward a more peaceful, equitable society with song, humor & passion. Will sing for rallies & events. Email jlglass53@aol.com. RI Association of Gay Professionals. Professional networking and philanthropy. gayprofessionalnetworkofri@gmail.com. 453-9276 RI Feminist Resources Network: Free, online e-community in which you are invited to share events or highlights in your organization or just find out what’s going on in our “like-minded” communities. www.rifrn.net RI Lesbian Social Club: social gatherings for women; email: heylari@yahoo.com or call 272-2962. RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children. Contact Melanie, 464-2288 or saphicangel120@yahoo.com RI Pride: Parade & Festival, year-round events; Box 1082, Prov. RI 02901, info@PrideRI.com; www. PrideRI.com. Office at 1005 Main St. #1105, Pawtucket. 467-2130 RI Prime Timers. Social and networking group for gay and bisexual men 40 and older. Meets 2nd Sundays. www.riprimetimers.org RI Skeptics Society. Yearning to talk with someone rational? Meetings 4th Saturday at a Seekonk restaurant for refreshing discussion. http:// skeptics.meetup.com/133/ RI Women’s Association: Lesbian social group; age 21+; dances/events. www.RIWA.net SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) Advocacy, education and social events for RI’s LGBTQ seniors. sageriinfo@gmail.com, on Facebook: “Sage/Rhode Island.” SEMASSMEN: Social group for GBQ men of S.E. Mass and RI to foster strong friendships.Semassmen-subscribe@yahoo groups.com or email moderator rlevass @yahoo.com. Trans Queer RI: friendship, fun activities, and support for transgender, queer & like-minded people. Gatherings third Sunday of each month. Email trans.queer.ri@gmail.com. T.W.I.S.T. Project: Program for gay and bisexual men in Fall River/New Bedford area. Drop-in center, referrals, condom distribution, social groups. Coffee night Thursdays 7 – 9 p.m. (508) 672-0378; www.myspace.com/twistprogram. UNISONG: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. www.unisong. net or jlglass53@aol.com VegOut Rhode Island: Social group for LGBT vegetarians, vegans and friends. Potlucks, VegOutings to restaurants, and other fun. Visit www. meetup.com/vegout-ri WomenRIsing. Feminist Chorus. Director Nancy Rosenberg. www.womenrisingchorus.org. Email: contact@womenrisingchorus.org. Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for glbt people interested in vintage & specialty cars. www.yankeelcc.com, sisherwood@aol.com.
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Sports
SCUBA DIVING: Triangle Divers: www.triangledivers.org.
PRIDESPORTSBOSTON: Network of twenty-plus gay sports leagues/teams in Boston area: www. pridesportsboston.com 617-937-5858 Gay sports in Boston and beyond: www.gaysports. com. Email info@gaysports.com. BASKETBALL: Boston Gay Basketball League: www.bgbl.com or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 2. BOWLING: RI GALA: 6 p.m. Sun., East Prov. Lanes, Newport Ave., Bruce, 397-3803, or Bill, 828-5587 www.galabowling.com. Monday Night Women’s Bowling League, Pat 451-2188. Royal Court Bowling League: 9 p.m. Wed., Woonsocket Hill Bowl; 767-2110. Big Gay Al’s Duckpin bowling league: Tuesdays 6:30 p.m., Proceeds benefit AIDS causes. Town Hall Lanes, Johnston. www.BGALBowling.com. Frank Ferri 831-6940. www.townhalllanes.com. BOWLING: BOSTON: Monday Night League, www.mnbl.net (617) 713-4832 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 5; Beantown No. G&L Invitational, www. beantownbowling.com (617) 738-0708 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 10; Beantown South G&L Invitational League, (617) 889-1552. DARTS: Beantown Soft-Tip Dart League www.bsdl. org.
SNOWBOARDING: OutRyders, www.outryders. org or email brian@outryders.org. SOCCER: Boston Strikers Soccer Club www.bostonstrikers.com (617) 937-5858 Ext. 9. SOFTBALL: Renaissance City Softball League. New players and boosters always welcome. 2267771 642 or rcsl_commish@cox.net. Visit www.providencesoftball.org Beantown Softball League: (617) 937-5858, Ext. 1, www.beantownsoftball.com. SQUASH: Boston Boasts www.bostonboasts.com SWIMMING: LANES (Liquid Assets New England Swim-Team); www.swim-lanes.org; (617) 9375858 Ext. 9. TENNIS: TENNIS-4-All: www.tennis4all.org. VOLLEYBALL: Cambridge Boston Volleyball Assoc. www.GayVolleyball.net, (617) 633-2180 YOGA for gays & lesbians. 9 a.m. Saturdays. All welcome. www/meetup.com/Gay-Meditation/. Fee applies. WRESTLING: East Coast Wrestling Club www. eastcoastwrestlingclub.org, email ecwc@juno. com, (401) 467-6737 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 6
FLAG FOOTBALL: FLAG (For Lesbians and Gays) Football www.flagflagfootball.com, (617) 9375858 Ext. 4.
Students & Youth
FOOTBALL: Women’s professional team Northeastern Nitro. Members of the Women’s Football Alliance. Practices held in Bethel, CT. Contact Amy Manfred at amymanfred@yahoo.com or Carley Pesente at linebackergirl56@aol.com.
Bristol Community College Gay/Straight Alliance (BCC/GSA); Steven Camara, Advisor (508)6782811 Ext. 2391, BCC-H202, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA 02720.
RI/S.E. MA Flag Football: Sats. 10 a.m. All levels and genders. mbs1994ever@yahoo.com
Brown University Queer Alliance: umbrella org. for groups. 863-3062. www.queer.brown.edu
GOLF: Golf4All www.golf4all.net (617) 450-8682. HOCKEY: Boston Pride Hockey www.bostonpridehockey.org (617) 937-5858 Ext. 7.
Brown University Grad Student - Med Student - Staff LGBTQ Association: queer-med-gradmembers@queer.brown.edu
ICE HOCKEY for WOMEN: email gwick@kersur.net.
Gail Wickstrom
Brown University Staff LGBTQ Assn.: call LGBT Resource Center: 863-3062
KICKBOXING or BOXING for WOMEN: Tues & Thurs evenings. Christina, 996-5425. www.rondeauskickboxing.com
Brown University LGBTQ Resource Center: 8633062, e-mail lgbtq@brown.edu
MARTIAL ARTS: Main Street Martial Arts. Nonprofit, welcoming dojo and community center. Scholarships available. 1282 No. Main St., Providence. 274-7672. www.mainstma.org. OUTDOORS: Chiltern Mountain Club, New England’s LGBT outdoor recreation club. www. chiltern.org. Email events@chiltern.org. ROWING: Boston Bay Blades www.bayblades.org/ boston (617) 937-5858 Ext. 11. RUGBY: Boston Ironsides Rugby Football Club. www.bostonironsidesrfc.org. RUNNING: Frontrunners Rhode Island: Brian 751-7643, bripm@cox.net. Frontrunners Boston www.frontrunnersboston.org (617) 937-5858
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Bryant Pride: Bryant College Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual Student Association. 232-6389. CCRI Triangle Alliance: Informal student GLBTQ group, 400 East Ave., Warwick. Call 825-1125 or www.ccri.cc.ri.edu/triangle. COLAGE. Support and social activities for children of LGBT Parents: meets third Saturday of the month rhodeisland@colage.org; http://www. myspace.com/colage_ri. 331-9844. Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) Fitchburg State College GLBT Alliance: social support group for students. One-in-Ten and Friends, 978-665-3164, sfranzemn@fsc.edu. Peer Listening Line/Fenway Community Health Ctr.: Boston. Youth-staffed hotline for GLBT youth; support, info and referrals. (617) 267-
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childrensfriendri.org. 276-4318
2535 or (800)-399-PEER, 5-10 p.m. all week. RIC Rainbow Alliance: GLBT students at RI College, Fridays 12:30 -- 2 p.m, in Unity Center in lower Donovan. Office in StudentUnion 425. ricrainbowalliance2007@yahoo.com. Phone 456--8121 Roger Williams University LGBTQ & Allies group: S.A.F.E (Sexual Advocacy for Everyone): Weekly meetings in Intercultural Center; speakers, social and awareness events; Pride Week in April. Email: saferwu03@gmail.com. Facebook: S.A.F.E. Salve Regina University Gay Straight Lesbian Bisexual Alliance (GSLBA), 100 Ochre Point Ave., Newport. Sister Johnelle, Lucianij@salve.edu SeaQuel: Southeast Asian Queers United for Empowerment and Leadership. Bi-weekly Sunday meetings. 383-7450. myspace.com/seaQuel; Email SeaQuel@Prysm.us S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Sq., Prov., RI 02918, E-mail pclgbt@gmail.com. 865-1631 The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, aroundthe-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks. 866-4-U-TREVOR; 866-488-7386. thetrevorproject.org. The Next Thing (TNT): Political & support group for queer people of color at Brown Univ. Call Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062. University of RI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer & Questioning (LGBTIQ2) association dedicated to campus inclusiveness among staff, faculty, alumni and students. gsimonelli@advance.uri.edu. 874-5808. Youth Pride Inc./The Way Out: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13-23.Drop-in center at 743 Westminster St., Prov. 02903; M-F noon-8 p.m. The Way Out support group meets Thurs., 5 p.m. The Gender Spectrum support group meets Tues. 5:30 p.m. Ask about the 14-and-under day. Call 421-5626 or email kerri@youthpride-ri.org Web: www. youthpride-ri.org.
Support Groups & Social Services Abuse Victims and Survivors: Support on phone for LGBTQ victims & survivors of partner abuse. Confidential peer-led groups. Hotline (617) 742-4911. Network/LaRed. Email office: advocate@tnir.org Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help for LGBT and straight adoptions. Betsy Alper, Jewish Family Service, 959 No. Main St., Providence. 331-54337. Foster parents needed: Stipend, assistance, training provided by Family Resources Community Action. 766-0900, ext. 1213. Foster parents needed, for newborn to age six. www.
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Foster parents sought: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing families. Gregary Wright, Family Service of RI, 331-1350 Ext. 3305 Behavioral health outpatient services in Fall River area, inclusive of LGBT: S.T.E.P. (508-)2351012; T.W.I.S.T. (508) 672-0378 Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center, offering resources for victims of domestic violence. 7233057. Catholic Parents Outreach: Always Our Children, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Sacred Heart Convent, 395 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA. Call Ann, (413) 736-6803.
Gay Fathers Support Group in RI. Tom Fronczak, LICSW, 431-2953. Fee applies. GayLab for Healthy Relationships: Learning & practicing healthy ways to socialize in safe, nonjudgmental environment in LGBT community. www.gaylab.org. Email info@gaylab.org. James, 781-762-6629 Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project: support, info, shelter. (800) 832-1901, www.gmdvp.org. Gay Men’s Life Coaching Group: Empower Your Life! 4th Friday of the month, 7 -- 8 p.m., 877 Broadway, E. Providence. 944-0723. $20 per session.
Dementia and Early Alzheimer’s LGBTQ support group Meets at Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Rd., Middletown RI 02842. 847-6181.
COLAGE (Children of Gays): A national movement of people with one or more LGBT parents. Social activities, education & advocacy. Meets 3rd Saturday of the month. rhodeisland@colage.org. www.myspace.com/colage_ri Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@ gmail.com) Coming Out Support Group: Monthly meetings professionally facilitated. www.meetup.com/ ComingOutRI/ Fee applies. Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group, meets in Boston First Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. www.compassftm.org, compassftm@comcast.net Crossroads RI: Hotline (Travelers Aid): (800) 3672700
Day One (Formerly Sexual Assault and Trauma Resource Center of RI): Counseling & legal aid for victims of sexual assault/abuse & incest. 24-hr hotline (800) 494-8100, collect calls accepted: 421-4100. Dementia and Early Alzheimer’s LGBTQ support group at Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Rd., Middletown RI 02842. 847-6181. Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County: Support, court advocacy, counseling, safe home, info for women and men in abusive or controlling, LGBT or straight relationships. 24 hour free and confidential helpline. 7823990. Female-to-Male Support Group: Transgender peer support, information, social group. For those who identify somewhere on the trans-masculine spectrum. Regular meetings. Visit www.SNE_ FTM@yahoo.com Gay/Bi/Lesbian Coming Out support Group: Facilitated meetings, social events. TJFronczak@ aol.com. Fee applies. Gay Fathers of Greater Boston: support: E-Mail outreach@gayfathersboston.org. www.gayfathersboston.org.
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Gay Men’s Meditation Group: Relax and connect! Second Wed. of the month, 7 -- 8 p.m. at Positive New Beginnings, 877 Broadway, E. Providence. Call Tim at 944-0723. $10/session.
Gay Officers Action League /New England (GOAL NE), gay/lesbian/ bisexual law enforcement officers, sworn & civilian. Fire, rescue and publicly employed EMS. P.O. Box 587, Boston, MA 02117; www.goalne. org; info@goalne.org; (617) 376-3612. Confidential. Gay Share. Coming Out? Gay men’s support group Wed., 7 p.m. No fee. Call Tom/Mike, 369-9448 or www.gayshare.org; Info@gayshare.org. Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline, call 24/7 for crisis and suicide prevention. Also social networks. 866-4-U-Trevor HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group at AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Ave., Prov., RI. 5213603. Refreshments served. New members should call Scott: 640-3108 Kathys’ Group: free support group for lesbians with cancer or any life-threatening illness. Meets monthly in Providence. Partners and caregivers welcome. Call 888-5KATHYS. Lesbian Moms of Southern NE: discussion, support and activity list for lesbian mothers. www. topica.com/lists/LMOSNE or ForADancer63@ aol.com. LBT Women’s Mediation: De-stress and express yourself! 4th Wednesday of the month, 7 -- 8 p.m., Positive New Beginnings, 877 Broadway, E. Providence. $10 per session. 944-0723. Mantalk of S.E. Mass: Social/Discussions for gay/ bi/curious men 18+. Taunton every Thursday, and New Bedford 1st Wed. of the month, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Confidential. Drug/alcohol-free. Email mantalksouthcoast@yahoo.com Nat. Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues, info@nlgja.org. PFLAG: Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays: Greater Providence: First Wednesdays, 6:45p.m. at Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571; www.pflagprovidence.org;
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pflagprovidence@verizon.net; South/Central RI: www.pflagscri.org, 219-0265, epbonetti@ gmail.com; Cape Cod/Falmouth: Last Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Falmouth, 840 Sandwich Rd., E. Falmouth. joann@pflagcapecod.org. RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence: Info at 467-9940; 24-hour helpline, (800) 494-8100. RI Rainbow Support Group for people with disabilities who identify as LGBTQ. Meets last Tuesday of each month. 98 Rolfe St., Cranston, 6 - 7:30. Ken Renaud, 785-2100. RI Relay 711. Samaritans: 24-hour hotline for suicidal, lonely, despairing, depressed. (800) 365-4044 (RI only), 272-4044; www.samaritansri.org. Sexual Health Education & Advocacy Program: HIV, sexual wellness, domestic violence risk reduction. Free, confidential, LGBTQ-friendly and bilingual (Spanish). Contact Aida (aman-
duley@sojournerri.org) or call 861-6191, ext. 121. No caller ID is used; calls are blocked for safety. Sojourner House: Support, shelter, advocacy, info for people in abusive relationships. Call us at 861-6191 We DON’T use Caller ID; calls are blocked for safety. Straight Spouse Support: Straight spouse professional offers peer support and referrals. Jane Harris, (413) 625-6636. Email jcmalinski48@ gmail.com. Straight Spouses Group: Visit www.StraightSpouse. org. for info on groups and online support. TGI Network of R.I.: Support, advocacy for Transgender, Transsexual, Gender-varient, Genderqueer & Intersex people. www.tginetwork.org. info@tginetwork.org. Transgender Support Group: Cape Cod (508) 362-
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4435 Trans Partners New England: Provides loved ones of transgender people with a confidential, safe space to explore the impact of a loved one’s gender identity on their relationships, and to connect with other loved ones of transgender people. Meeting location unpublished for privacy. Email partners@tginetwork.org. TransYouth Family Allies: Support for gender-variant and transgender children ages 3-18. Info@ imatyfa.org. www.imatyfa.org. Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA): Growing organization to address the concerns of fair treatment of transgender veterans and active duty service members. www. tavausa.org. Women’s Resource Center of Newport and Bristol Counties, offering services to victims of domestic violence. 846-5263.
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