June, 2021 News (72 Articles with 72,496 total views)
On the cover of the print edition for June, 2021 Show your Pride with a yard sign from NW PA Pride Alliance. Yard signs, shirts, and tank tops are available at NWPAPride.org
This began publication in December 2002 after a hiatus
Category for this issueCalendar & Upcoming Events
Calendar of Local GLBT Events |
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Local and Regional News
2021 Pride Shirt and Yard sign now available!
This summer NWPA Pride are bringing back the Pride shirt and tank tops. This design is a remastered version of the 2020 Shirt contest winner from Whee! Design. This summer there is also a limited edition Pride yard sign that will be available for a small donation. Shirts, tank tops, and yard signs available in limited quantities at NWPApride.org. Also look for Social media announcements for special in person popup shops during June. Any questions please email President@nwpapride.org
2021 LGBTQ Juried Art Exhibit at Blasco Library, June 1 - 30
The Greater Erie Alliance for Equality (GEAE) has curated a 2021 LGBTQ Juried Art Exhibit, which runs all of Pride month, June 1 - 30, on the 2nd floor of Blasco Library. Supported by a grant from Erie Arts & Culture, the exhibit features over 50 artworks by 25 LGBTQ artists from northwestern PA. There is a variety of styles, subjects, and media in the exhibit, including painting, sculpture, photography, fiber, pastels, drawing, fine jewelry, and mixed media.
History exhibit at Blasco for June
"A Look Back, A history of the LGBTQ+ Community in Erie, PA" is set for a second run. This local LGBTQ+ history display was first exhibited during Pride month of 2019. It will be exhibited for a second time at The Blasco Library from June 1st through June 30th. The exhibit has been refreshed and expanded and can be seen on the second floor, close to the LGBTQ+ juried art exhibit. This June, don't miss "A Look Back: A History of the LGBTQ+ Community on Erie, PA."
New Events for the Zone Dance Club
Erie's number one gay bar is getting back into the groove, one sequin at a time. Amidst the seemingly tail end of an unprecedented pandemic, the Zone is bringing the queens out of quarantine, with two new events! Rebecca Mae is now hosting weekly shows called Fierce Friday's. Queens near and far will have the opportunity showcase a sickening performance and entertain the crowds. Showtimes will start every Friday at 10 PM. No cover will be required.
The Erie Gay News Survey
The Erie Gay News needs your feedback! Our mission is to best reflect the LGBTQIA of Erie. With that, we want to get to know our readers a bit better. Over on our Facebook, (Erie Gay News), check out our Psychographic Survey. This survey is meant for use to get a better read of we can interact better with you! Your feedback is essential and much appreciated.
Erie Gay News now in PA Power Library
The Erie County Public Library, is excited to announce that the entire run of the Erie Gay news is now digitally available for patrons to search and view! Through Pennsylvania Power Library and the PA Photos and Documents initiative, patrons are able to access these records from anywhere. The collection features Erie Gay News publications from 1992 to present day. These documents are text searchable, share to social media platforms, and save and print clips.
Bears Do Dinner Returns on June 23
Bears Do Dinner will return on Wednesday, June 23, at 6 PM. The location will be announced shortly. You will need to RSVP at the Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1475863226069226. You can also sign up for email notifications about Bears Do Dinner at the Erie Gay News Facebook page. For questions, please contact Peter at EriePeter@gmail.com.
GayDay Crawford in Diamond Park on July 11
Meadville will hold GayDay Crawford in Diamond Park on Saturday, July 11, from 11 AM to 6 PM. LGBT+ businesses and organizations interested in participating should contact Glenn at glenntuttle@icloud.com. There is no fee to setup.
Mayor's LGBTQIA advisory council May 20 meeting
The Mayor's LGBTQIA+ Advisory Council met on Thursday, May 20. The Mayor's office is continuing to work on including non-discrimination clauses for contracts with city contractors and also anti-bullying in contractors for youth service providers. This should hopefully be included by the July 31 deadline for submitting to raise the City of Erie's Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Municipal Equality Index.
Pennsylvania Commission on LGBTQ affairs meeting on May 21
The Pennsylvania Commission on LGBTQ Affairs held its quarterly spring meeting via Zoom on May 21. Executive Director Rafael Alvarez-Febo reported that the commission has been working on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, particularly in LGBTQ intersectional communities. There will be a Pride flag-raising ceremony on June 15 at noon in Harrisburg, and there are other significant LGBTQ initiatives expected to be announced at that time.
Pride Sports USA Forming Leagues in Erie
Pride Sports USA, http://PrideSportsUSA.com founded by Keith London in 2020, is a sports organization for the LGBTQ+ community and our allies! Our goal is to provide a fun, organized and affordable league to all. Located in several cities around the country and 25,000+ players! We offer kickball, dodgeball, softball, volleyball, tennis, soccer, football and cornhole. We are currently looking to start leagues in Erie, PA and surrounding areas. Please join us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/pridesportserie to learn more about leagues forming in your area. For additional information please email info@pridesportsusa.com
Erie Drag Queen Bingo on May 29 & Jun 25
Due to the overwhelming response, another Erie Drag Queen Bingo is scheduled at Zem Zem- Shrine Club for Saturday, May 29, and also Friday, June 25. Both events begin at 7:15 PM Come out and have fun at Erie's Drag Queen Bingo. OVER $2000 in CASH PRIZES!! And some crazy door prizes!! Join your favorite Drag Queens, Rebecca Mae, Michelle Michaels, and Priscilla Godzilla for a crazy night of Bingo and fun. Be warned..... No one is safe from the Queens! Prepare for 2 hours of dirty jokes, ruthless insults, and side-splitting laughs! Not for the easily offended! Tickets & Reservations can be made online at www.ErieDragQueenBingo.com Limited Seating Available. MUST be 18 and older to attend. Tickets are NON-TRANSFERABLE. NO REFUND
Pride Ashtabula on June 5
Pride Ashtabula kicks off at The Cove Niteclub, 5326 Lake Road. E. Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio 44041 on June 4th at 9 pm. On June 5th, there will be a Family Friendly PG- Pride at 1498 State Route 46 South, Jefferson, OH 40047, from 12-5. Drag show hostesses are Mona Lotz and Vivian Vendetta Sinclaire. Other performers include Desiree Monroe (Miss GBO Newcomer), Danyel Vasquez (Miss Ohio FI), McKenzie Chrystal Rose (Miss Funky Skunk), Sasha Mizrahe, OMEGA, Ashtabula Native GINGERELLA, Dakota Cox, Anhedonia Delight, Zoey Zegai, Keyanna Diamond, Infiniti Sinclaire, and Maelstrom West. The Pride event will include vendors, food, unicorn rides, crafts, and games for the kids. There will also be a private 21 and older After Pride Party for donations of $50+. Email bdaywalt1@icloud.com if you have any questions, would like to volunteer and or donate! Booths are $10.
Warren County Pride Day on June 26
Warren County Pride Day is a celebration of the LGBT community and culture and will feature a variety of quality out-of-town speakers, entertainment, and attractions. All are welcome at this all-day festival. The event is being held on Saturday, June 26 from 11 AM to 7 PM at Betts Park, 400 Ludlow St, Warren PA 16365. The Facebook event page is at https://www.facebook.com/events/489975058909949/. For more info, email WarrenCountyPride@gmail.com
Drive your Pride on June 27
Join us on Sunday, June 27 for Drive Your Pride to show our pandemic friendly pride! This is a privately organized way to reclaim the experience of a parade. Decorate your car or vehicle as your personal parade float--flags, streamers, signs, be creative! Just make you are able to safely obey all the rules of the road! We will all drive together around the peninsula. Meet at the parking lot of the Tom Ridge Environmental Center at 1pm and then "step off" at 2:00. We urge you to use good COVID safe practices. Please share this event and invite your friends! This should be fun! Event will be rain or shine. This event is not affiliated with the Tom Ridge Environmental Center.
Jamestown Pride Fest Set For Saturday, June 12th
The Jamestown Pride Steering and Planning Committees are excited to announce that Pride festivities will happen in downtown Jamestown on Saturday, June 12, 2021. The LGBTQIA+ community has historically celebrated Pride in June to commemorate the Stonewall Riots that took place in June 1969. Drag Queen Star Pandora Boxx to Offer Free Performance!
FREE HIV Testing at The Zone on June 4
This will be the second of four HIV testing events in 2021 organized by NWPA Pride Alliance, Northwest Alliance, Greater Erie Alliance for Equality, City Of Erie, Erie Gay News, Dickey's BBQ, and more. Northwest Alliance will be conducting free and confidential using their new Mobile Testing Unit. Testing available to those 14 years of age and up with no parental consent required. We will use rapid testing using a finger prick, and results will be given after 2 minutes.
United Way of Erie County Senior Director of Community Impact Job Opening
The United Way of Erie County, 420 W 6th St, Erie PA 16507 is seeking a Senor Director of Community Impact. The senior director of community impact is a key member of United Way of Erie County's Community Impact department. Their primary function is to supervise all United Way community school directors. They also support the overall implementation and expansion of United Way community schools throughout Erie County A resume and cover letter sent to jobs@unitedwayerie.org by COB on Friday, June 4, 2021 is required for consideration.
Tyler Titus Wins Democratic Nomination for Erie County Executive
Erie, PA - May 19, 2021 - Today in an historic victory, Tyler Titus won the Democratic nomination for Erie County Executive. This puts Titus on a path to becoming the first transgender county executive in United States history in November. Titus released the following statement: "This victory belongs to the people of Erie County who know we need new leadership to build a prosperous future for all of us. From investing in our schools and infrastructure to expanding broadband access and creating good-paying jobs across the county, it's time to unite and deliver results for families across Erie County."
Cybersecurity Workshop on May 13
On May 13, 2021, organizations including Erie Gay News, Greater Erie Alliance for Equality, Lake Erie Counseling, LBT Women of Erie, Northwest Alliance, NW PA Pride Alliance, Pennsylvania Equality Project, Safe Harbor, SafeNet, and TransFamily of NW PA partnered on a Zoom presentation on cybersecurity by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Security. George Dillman, Consumer Outreach Specialist for PA Department of Banking and Securities, presented ways to keep safe online and to avoid scamsWe will continue to pursue collaborative opportunities to keep our local LGBT community informed, safe, and healthy!
The Joseph Michael Kulka Jr. Scholarship - Deadline to Apply is May 15
Joseph Michael Kulka Jr., 28, was murdered in a gay hate crime on Feb. 11, 1982. He was a mental health counseling major, being the first in his extended family to graduate from college. A native of Sharpsville, Pa., he received his degree from Gannon and was devoted to those with learning disabilities. He worked at Sunland Center in Orlando at his death. He was energized when he was with his clients, making them number one in his life. In memory of Joseph's extraordinary gifts, a generous donor has established The Joseph M. Kulka Jr. Scholarship for Diversity Leadership through the LGBT Community Endowment of The Erie Community Foundation. In 2021, the Scholarship provides a one-time award of $2,000. It recognizes a graduating senior of any Erie County high school pursuing a four-year college program. The successful candidate must demonstrate that he/she has given of their personal lives to improve awareness and understanding of diversity in the Erie County community. The recipient need not be a member of any particular segment of society, but must demonstrate his/her history of leadership in this area with the expectation that their efforts will continue in college and adult life. Selection shall be made by the Scholarship Committee of the LGBT Community Endowment Fund, with ratification by Foundation leadership.
The LGBT Community Endowment fund RFP for Grants due May 28
The LGBT Community Endowment fund at the Erie Community Foundation has issued an RFP for grants that support the LGBTQIA community. A link can be found at https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=Erie. The application deadline is May 28.
Entertainment and Travel
MTV Entertainment Studios and Paramount+ double down on reality as new home of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars and announce premiere of Queen of the Universe
New York, NY - May 26, 2021 - MTV Entertainment Studios and Paramount+ continue to bolster a robust reality slate by announcing premiere dates for RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars and Queen of the Universe on June 24th and December 2nd, respectively; the latter will premiere globally.
ABC News Kicks Off Pride Month With New Podcast Aiming To Preserve The History Of The LGBTQ+ Community And Celebrate The Joys Of Living 'Life Out Loud'
On Tuesday, June 1 ABC News will kick off Pride Month with the two-episode premiere of its first LGBTQ+ issue-focused podcast, "Life Out Loud with LZ Granderson." ABC News Contributor LZ Granderson draws from his own lived experience as a gay, Black father to host inspiring, provocative and often hilarious conversations to help preserve the history of the LGBTQ+ community. This podcast will delve into the policies, cultural touchstones and historical events that have shaped the collective experience of this often underrepresented and misunderstood group. Guests will shed light on the past by sharing their own stories and look to the future by describing their vision for how living 'life out loud' should look. The first two episodes will explore the impact of the groundbreaking FX series "Pose" as it wraps its third and final season. The show's co-creator and co-executive producer, Steven Canals, joins Granderson in the inaugural episode of "Life Out Loud." The second episode will feature a conversation with "Pose" star Mj Rodriguez, who is the first transgender actress to win Best Actress at the Imagen Awards.
LGBTQ TV Network, Revry, Premieres Original Cooking Series with Renowned Chef
NEW YORK: On May 21st, global LGBTQ+ streaming network, Revry, is thrilled to inspire your tastebuds with its newest Original series Jonathan's Kitchen: Seasons to Taste, a tantalizing 8-episode cooking show with storyteller, cook and author Jonathan Bardzik.
In The Heights Is In Theatres and on HBO Max on June 11
In The Heights is in theaters June 11 as well as available on HBO Max for 31 days after theatrical release.
Love, Victor Season 2 Premieres June 11 on Hulu
Love Victor Season two premieres with all episodes on June 11th, only on Hulu. The popular teen dramedy returns as season two finds a newly out of the closet Victor entering his junior year at Creekwood High. But being out brings with it new challenges, as Victor faces a family struggling with his revelation, a heartbroken ex-girlfriend in Mia, and the difficulties of being an openly gay star athlete -- all while navigating the excitement of his relationship with Benji.
Buffalo Gay Men's Chorus and Buffalo Gay Bingo present Summer Cook'n Meat Raffle with Pride on June 5
On Saturday, June 5, the Buffalo Gay Men’s Chorus and Buffalo Gay Bingo present Summer Cook in Meat Raffle with Pride on Facebook Live. The virtual event begins at 6 PM, and there is a preshow at 5:45 PM. You need not be present to win! The event features drag performances by Jayme Coxx, Figgy Pudding, and Damsel ‘N Distress. Tickets are single for $40, double for $70, and triple for $90. Each ticket includes entry into every round, door prize drawings, and entry into the 50/50 split! The 50/50 split is generated by $2 from every ticket purchased. Get your tickets at https://www.purplepass.com/#218974/
Enfant Terrible Biopic about Rainer Wener Fassbinder Now in Theatres
ENFANT TERRIBLE, the biopic of iconic German New Wave director Rainer Werner Fassbinder, commences in select theaters this May - June from Dark Star Pictures. From director Oskar Roehler, and starring Oliver Masucci, Hary Prinz, Katja Riemann, and Felix Hellmann, ENFANT TERRIBLE had its world premiere at the 2020 Cannes Film Festival.
Drag sensation Alaska as Hamlet at Dramashop
Drag sensation Alaska as you've never seen her before: Playing the title role in HAMLET, a 90-minute staged reading of William Shakespeare's play edited and directed by Jessica Flock. Join us as Alaska, winner of RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars, takes on one of Shakespeare's most famous roles alongside a cast of Dramashop veterans in a staged reading. Streaming LIVE one night only on Friday, May 14 at 8pm EST and available on-demand through June 1.
Political, Activism and Legal
MTV and All Out launch international LGBTQ+ photography competition
New York, NY - May 27, 2021 - MTV has partnered with All Out, a global movement for love and equality, on an international LGBT+ photography award. The competition runs on three themes that track the lives and experiences of LGBT+ people through the pandemic: Resisting, Supporting and Healing. Winners will be announced on June 28 - Pride Day.
Pride 2021 and the Global State of LGBTIQ Equality
Pride marches are a central element of the global LGBTIQ movement, loudly and visibly affirming the existence of LGBTIQ people, and demanding recognition of our human rights. June 1 marks the start of Pride month, which, although Pride events happen year-round across the world, is symbolically marked to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall riots.
Lambda Legal and ACLU of Ohio Issue Materials to Educate Public on Ohio Department of Health's New Procedures for Trans Ohioans to Correct Birth Certificates
(Columbus, OH) - To comply with a December 2020 court order in Ray v. McCloud, a case brought by Lambda Legal, the ACLU of Ohio, ACLU and Thompson Hine LLP, the Ohio Department of Health established new procedures that allow transgender people to correct the gender or "sex" marker on Ohio birth certificates.
ACLU Sues Arkansas Over Ban on Health Care for Transgender Youth
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - May 25, 2021 - The American Civil Liberties Union today filed a lawsuit on behalf of four transgender youth and their families as well as two doctors challenging an Arkansas law that prohibits health care professionals from providing or even referring transgender young people for medically necessary health care. The bill also bars any state funds or insurance coverage for gender-affirming health care for transgender people under 18, and it would allow private insurers to refuse coverage for gender-affirming care for people of any age. The lawsuit, filed in federal court, alleges that House Bill 1570 violates the U.S. Constitution.
National organizations release report detailing policy, legal, educational, and interpersonal actions for LGBTQ-inclusive sex education
(Washington, DC - May 25, 2021) - Today, leading policy and health organizations released a major new report detailing the urgent need for LGBTQ+-inclusive sex education programs and supports. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth - particularly those who are at the intersection of multiple marginalized communities - need to be able to learn in settings that are inclusive of their experiences and that give them the necessary tools to stay safe and healthy. However, whether legally barred or simply ignored, LGBTQ+-inclusive sex education is not available for most youth, especially for LGBTQ youth who are Black, Indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC).
Illegal Detention of 21 LGBTIQ People in Ghana
May 24, 2021 - Twenty one LGBTIQ people were arrested by armed police in the city of Ho in Ghana on Thursday, May 20, after a local tip-off. The people arrested were representatives of LGBTIQ civil society organizations holding a training session on protecting vulnerable LGBTIQ people from discrimination. They have been charged with "unlawful assembly", bail has been denied, and they are due to appear before a judge on June 4.
Wolf Administration Creates Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Office; Hiring Critical Staffing Roles
Harrisburg, PA - May 26, 2021 - The Office of Advocacy and Reform (OAR), established by Governor Tom Wolf's 2019 executive order to protect Pennsylvania's vulnerable populations, today announced the creation of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office and job openings within the office to lead efforts with state agencies and employers across the commonwealth.
Decision Day coming!
Last year, the U.S. Supreme Court heard the case Fulton v Philadelphia (See more at www.DecisionDay.org/Cases), which could profoundly affect protections for LGBTQ+ people, people of color, people of faith and more. The court will issue its opinion sometime between now and the end of June and when that happens, we want you to be one of the first to know how it will affect all of us.
Victory! Challenge to West Virginia's Ban on Health Care Coverage for Transgender West Virginians Will Get its Day in Court
(WEST VIRGINIA - May 20, 2021) -- Yesterday, a federal district court judge denied the State of West Virginia's request to dismiss a lawsuit by Lambda Legal, Nichols Kaster, and The Employment Law Center, challenging West Virginia's ban on gender-confirming care in West Virginia's Medicaid and state employee health plans. The ruling, by Judge Robert Chambers of the District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia, ensures that Lambda Legal's lawsuit filed on behalf of Christopher Fain, Zachary Martell, and Brian McNemar against the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WV Medicaid) and West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) will proceed on the merits. In response, Lambda Legal attorney and Tyron Garner Memorial Law Fellow Avatara Smith-Carrington released the following statement: "This decision is a great step forward for our plaintiffs. No one should be denied coverage for health care simply because they are transgender. We are very pleased that Judge Chambers found that Lambda Legal's challenge to the state's categorical denial of gender-confirming care to transgender Medicaid and PEIA participants deserves to be heard on the merits. The state's denial of health care inflicts severe harms on transgender West Virginians, and we are grateful our clients will get their day in court."
New Research Underscores Mental Health Disparities Faced By Diverse LGBTQ Youth Amid COVID-19 & Beyond
WASHINGTON, DC - May 19, 2021 - The Trevor Project, the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people, today released the findings of its 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health, representing the experiences of nearly 35,000 LGBTQ youth (ages 13-24) across the United States. The third annual survey finds that 42% of respondents seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half of transgender and nonbinary youth. An overwhelming majority of LGBTQ youth also reported recent symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder or major depressive disorder, yet nearly half of respondents reported wanting mental health care in the past year but were not able to get it.
PFLAG Parent Day, a Virtual Celebration of Parenting People on Sunday, May 23 at 2pm ET/11am PT
WASHINGTON - On Sunday, May 23, PFLAG National invites LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies to tune in online for PFLAG Parent Day: A Virtual Celebration of Parenting People. This free, online special event celebrates and uplifts all the parents, grandparents, foster parents, adoptive parents, caregivers, and found family members who have provided love, support, and affirmation to their LGBTQ+ kids.
ACLU, Lambda Legal Respond to Failure of Alabama Bill Criminalizing Health Care for Trans Youth
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - May 18, 2021 - The Alabama Legislature concluded its regular session for 2021 last night without advancing Senate Bill 10, which would have criminalized health care for transgender youth. Late last month, the American Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Alabama, and Lambda Legal had vowed to challenge the law if the bill had been passed and signed by Governor Kay Ivey.
Coalition Advances Lawsuit Over Trump-Era Rollback of Critical Data Collection Requirements to Protect Vulnerable Populations in Foster Care System
San Francisco, C.A. - May 18, 2021 - Yesterday, the California Tribal Families Coalition, the Yurok Tribe, the Cherokee Nation, Facing Foster Care in Alaska, Ark of Freedom Alliance, the Ruth Ellis Center, and True Colors, Inc. pressed forward with their lawsuit challenging a Trump-era rollback of important child welfare data collection requirements. The plaintiffs are represented by Democracy Forward, Lambda Legal, and the Michigan State University College of Law's Indian Law Clinic.
San Francisco to declare country's first Queer and Transgender Asian and Pacific Islanders (QTAPI) Week May 22nd-May 29th
SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco became the first city in the country to honor the Queer and Trans API (QTAPI) community with a designated week of celebration and recognition on Tuesday when the San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution by District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman to declare the week of May 22nd through May 29th, 2021 as Queer and Transgender Asian and Pacific Islanders week in San Francisco.
Lambda Legal Applauds State Department Policy Change to Recognize Citizenship at Birth of Marital Children of Same-Sex Couples Born Abroad
(WASHINGTON, DC - May 18) Today, the U.S. Department of State's announced that it will be updating its policies under Section 301 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), to start recognizing the U.S. citizenship of children born abroad to parents, at least one of whom is a U.S. citizen and who are married to each other at the time of the birth. This change that will positively impact married same-sex parents and their children follows two court decisions last year in lawsuits brought by Lambda Legal and Immigration Equality that resulted in courts finding the then-existing policy of refusing to recognize the citizenship of children born abroad to married same-sex couples to be unlawful.
OutRight Action International's Statement on IDAHOTB
May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB, sometimes also called IDAHOBIT). Picked on the date on which in 1990 the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders, the day serves to reflect on the progress made in the recognition and protection of the human rights of LGBTIQ people, and draw attention to the challenges LGBTIQ people continue to face on a day to day basis around the world.
May 2021 Updates to Equality Maps
MAP's interactive LGBTQ Equality Maps provide a comprehensive look at the current state of laws and policies impacting LGBTQ people across the United States. The Equality Maps offer a state-by-state comparison of the policy landscape and gaps in protections for LGBTQ people across the country.
Plaintiffs Urge HHS to Fully Reverse Trump-Era Healthcare Discrimination Rule
BOSTON - May 11, 2021 - Minutes before a Monday federal court hearing in Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth (BAGLY) et al v. HHS, a lawsuit challenging the Trump-Pence Administration's rule undermining healthcare nondiscrimination protections contained in Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that the Office for Civil Rights will interpret and enforce Section 1557 and Title IX's prohibitions on discrimination based on sex to include discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. While Plaintiffs in the BAGLY case are encouraged by the announcement, HHS's actions fell far short of addressing all of the harms from the 2020 Rollback Rule that the lawsuit challenges.
ACLU and Lambda Legal Plan to File Lawsuit if Texas Legislature Bans Medical Care for Transgender Youth
AUSTIN, Texas- May 11, 2021 - The American Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Texas, and Lambda Legal announced today a plan to sue the state of Texas if the legislature and Gov. Abbott approve a bill to ban essential, life-saving medical care for transgender youth. Late Monday night, the House Calendars Committee scheduled HB 1399 to be debated before the Texas House of Representatives on Wednesday.
Parliament of Uganda Passes "Sexual Offences Bill" Enhancing Criminalization of Same-Sex Relations
On Monday, May 3, 2021, the Parliament of Uganda passed the Sexual Offences Bill 2019. Purportedly the Bill aims to prevent sexual violence, enhance punishment against sexual offenders and provide additional protection for victims. However, it also reinforces and reiterates a ban on same-sex relations codified in the country's Penal Code.
Health
Leonard-Litz Foundation and Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center Partner to Support Community-Based LGBTQ COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics Throughout Northeast U.S.
ALLENTOWN, PA - Leonard-Litz Foundation, a private foundation in Connecticut, and Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center, a nonprofit organization in Pennsylvania, are partnering to increase the capacity of LGBTQ centers to host COVID-19 vaccination clinics.
Erie County Department of Health (ECDH) Resumes FREE Confidential HIV & STD Testing
Starting in June, the Erie County Department of Health is resuming their free, confidential HIV & STD testing with counseling. Clinic hours are by appointment only weekly on Tuesdays from 9AM to 11:30AM and on Wednesdays from 1PM to 3:30PM. To set up your appointment date and time, call the ECDH at (814) 451-6700, selection Option 3, and then Option 2. The Erie County Department of Health is located at 606 West 2nd Street, Erie PA; on Route 31 with the EMTA. You can also find where to get FREE CONDOMS by browsing the online map supplied by the Erie County HIV Task Force at: ECHIV.org/map
HIV/STI Testing at Drive Your Pride
On June 27th, in honor of National HIV Testing Day, Northwest Alliance will be offering FREE and confidential HIV testing from 12pm-2pm before the Drive Your Pride parade. Northwest Alliance will be utilizing their new mobile HIV testing units, which will be parked in the Tom Ridge Environmental Center parking lot. Gift cards will be provided to anyone that gets tested. For more information, contact Emily Crofoot at ecrofoot@clarion.edu or (814) 454-3811.
Central Outreach Brings PrEP 2 Me
After a year of what seems to have been a constant state of limbo, 2021 is finally beginning to look upwards. Here at Central Outreach Wellness Center, we are striving to continue with ever-changing health care practices that are game changers in the way we are helping to eradicate the spread and stigma of STDs and HIV/AIDS.
CALL FOR PRESENTERS: 4th Annual Pennsylvania LGBTQIA Virtual Health Conference
The 4th Annual Pennsylvania LGBTQIA Virtual Health Conference will be held October 12-14, 2021. We invite you to submit an application to present information at the 4th Annual Pennsylvania LGBTQIA Health Conference
Department of Aging: June 23 Medicare Event Welcomes Future Beneficiaries with Information on Eligibility, Coverage Options
Harrisburg, PA - The Pennsylvania Department of Aging today announced that older adults who will soon be turning 65 and are not yet enrolled in Medicare can attend a free virtual event to learn about their healthcare coverage options when enrolling for Medicare.
Balancing Sexual Expression with Emotional Connection (Part Two)
In every open (non-monogamous) relationship - legally married or not - we determine how to balance the love and sexual energy we give to our beloved with how much emotion we allow ourselves to feel for our sexual partners. For my clients Tomas and Lisa, their love for each other was very strong, but the amount of emotional energy they were willing to invest in their sex partners was quite different.
Found In Food: Of Primary Importance (?)
The way we talk about food you would think there is some type of crisis here in 'Murrica: somehow, strangely, we think we just can't get enough protein in our diets. I hear this over and over again from participants who I provide wellness coaching to, although in a 'shadow' format, the classic example being "I need to limit/I have a problem with carbs". Since we need a certain number of calories for health, a certain percentage of those calories must come from the big three macronutrients of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. (If you are lost already, don't panic. "Macronutrient" is just fancy talk for "food building block"; think of them as different primary colored Legos, if that helps, which go into the structure of all food.) If you reduce the percentage of calories you take in from carbohydrates, the percentage of calories from fat and protein will increase. And the word protein comes from the Greek root for primary or first, with good reason: without it, Very Bad Things can happen to the body starting with tissue wasting (your body breaks down your internal organs to get those red protein Legos) and leading to gastrointestinal disorders, increased susceptibility to infection, decreased wound healing and more.
Data from Pennsylvania LGBTQ COVID-19 Vaccine Survey Released
ALLENTOWN, PA - May 10, 2021 - Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center, in partnership with the Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research at Bryn Mawr College, has released the results of the Pennsylvania LGBTQ COVID-19 Vaccine Survey, which collected new and critical data about vaccine hesitancy and barriers to care among Pennsylvania's LGBTQ residents with regard to the COVID-19 vaccine.
Adagio Health Celebrates World No Tobacco Day 2021
Pittsburgh, PA (May 11, 2021) - Every year, on May 31st, Adagio Health and its partners celebrate World No Tobacco Day. The annual World Health Organization (WHO) campaign is an opportunity to raise awareness about the harmful and deadly effects of tobacco use and second-hand smoke exposure, and to discourage the use of tobacco in any form. The focus of World No Tobacco Day 2021 is to promote tobacco cessation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
HHS Announces Prohibition on Sex Discrimination Includes Discrimination on the Basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
Washington D.C. - May 10, 2021 - Today, the Department of Health and Human Services announced that the Office for Civil Rights will interpret and enforce Section 1557 and Title IX's prohibitions on discrimination based on sex to include: (1) discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation; and (2) discrimination on the basis of gender identity. Section 1557 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in covered health programs or activities. The update was made in light of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Bostock v. Clayton County and subsequent court decisions
Letters, Columnists and Opinion
Many countries still reject, torture and kill LGBT people
President Biden has stated that our foreign policy would be based on human rights which include the respect for LGBT rights. His Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, went even further by issuing this memorandum on February 4th: "Pursuant to President Biden's memorandum, the Department of State in coordination with relevant federal agencies will use a broad range of diplomatic and programmatic tools and resources to protect vulnerable LGBTQI+ refugees and asylum seekers; combat criminalization of individuals on the basis of LGBTQI+ status or conduct; ensure that our diplomacy and foreign assistance promote and protect the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons and advance nondiscrimination; and allow swift U.S. responses to human rights violations and abuses of LGBTQI+ persons."
The Amazon Trail: Notes from a Homebody
It's finally here. The end of total lockdown. Am I ready? Absolutely not. I like my burrow. I don't wanna play with others.
Contests
Enter to win Find Someone to Love
Enter to win Find Someone to Love by Divya Sood. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, June 18, and Friday, July 9.
Enter to win Operation Hyacinth - The Story of Forbidden Love
Enter to win Operation Hyacinth - The Story of Forbidden Love by Pawel Kurczab. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, June 15, and Tuesday, July 6.
Enter to win a digital download of TRANS/gressive by Riki Wilchins from Riverdale Avenue Books!
Enter to win a digital download of TRANS/gressive by Riki Wilchins from Riverdale Avenue Books! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, June 11, and Friday, July 2.
Enter to win Center Stage Blu-ray!
Enter to win Center Stage Blu-ray. To enter the contest, fill out the form below between Tuesday, June 8, and Tuesday, June 29.
Enter to win Dragons & Disco Socks by Will Koehler PhD
Enter to win Dragons & Disco Socks by Will Koehler PhD. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, May 25, and Tuesday, June 15.
Enter to win My Pursuit of Beauty: A Cosmetic Chemist Reveals The Glitz, The Glam and The Batsh*t Crazy by Vincent Spannato?
Enter to win My Pursuit of Beauty: A Cosmetic Chemist Reveals The Glitz, The Glam and The Batsh*t Crazy by Vincent Spannato! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, May 21, and Friday, June 11.
History
San Francisco designates first landmark honoring lesbian history for longtime home of LGBTQ pioneers Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin
SAN FRANCISCO - May 4, 2021 - On Tuesday, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously passed an ordinance authored by District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman to designate the former home of pioneering LGBTQ and civil rights activists Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin as a local historic landmark. The Board will take a final vote on the ordinance at their May 11 meeting, after which the ordinance and landmark will be in effect in June.
Miscellaneous
UNO Play With Pride Cards
UNO has partnered with the It Gets Better Project to launch UNO Play with Pride, a new special edition card deck celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in honor of Pride Month exclusively available at Target.com and Target retailers nationwide.
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