April, 2023 News (79 Articles with 84,408 total views)
On the cover of the print edition for April, 2023 Aging with Pride is excited to launch meetings and a new book club. See more at AgingWithPrideErie.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
Lola LeCroix and Other Drag Performers at GASE Drag Show at Behrend on April 14
Penn State Behrend's LGBTQIA+ student group, GASE, is pleased to announce the phenomenal performers for their drag show on April 14. Join them for performances in McGarvey Commons in the Reed Union Building from 7 to 9 PM. Performers include Lola LeCroix, Anna Steezia, Calipso, Kat De Lac, and Shari Turner!
Register for People's Pride 2k23 before it's too late, space is feeling up quickly!
SisTers PGH is proud to announce that registration is open for this year's People's Pride Parade and Music Festival! The fun-filled event will be held on Sunday, June 25, 2023.
Aging With Pride Meetings
Aging with Pride, an organization of senior LGBT+ members and allies, develops and sponsors social/recreational and educational events to promote healthy leisure activities, community, and an active, enjoyable lifestyle. The group was organized in 2017 by Dale Allgeier of Lake Erie Counseling in response to an identified need in the Erie Area for support to older LGBT+ individuals, providing support, friendship, social opportunities, and discussion of issues of importance such as medical/health needs, housing/legal/financial concerns, discrimination, disabilities, and social isolation. The group stopped meeting due to COVID and is now back.
Safe Zone LGBTQ+ Group Meets at The Pointe in Oil City
The Safe Zone is an LGBTQ+ group that meets on the 4th Friday of the month from 11 am to noon. It’s a place to come together to celebrate diversity, create support, share experiences & resources, and help educate one another. We meet at The Pointe in Oil City, 259 Seneca Street, Oil City, PA 16301. This group is for adults 18 years or older.
2023 Pride Fest and Parade Registration
NW PA Pride Alliance will host Pridefest this year on June 24. We will gather at 11th and State Street (NOTE! NEW LOCATION!), Erie, PA, from 11-12 and step off to march to Perry Square at 12. If you are interested in having a table or being a group looking to register for the parade, please visit NWPAPride.org/pride-registration. There is no charge to be a parade unit; a table is $15 and includes an 8' long table and two chairs. You may bring your own up to 10' by 10' canopy/tent. Tables are limited, so please secure your table before the June 1 deadline. Please note that we have sold out of tables, and any new table requests will be on a waiting list.
NW PA Pride Launches Erie Queer Happy Hour
NW PA Pride Alliance hosted its first monthly Erie Queer Happy Hour at Oasis Tiki Bar, 3122 W Lake Rd, Erie, PA, on Wednesday, March 1. The next Erie Queer Happy Hour will be Wednesday, April 5, at UPick 6 Publix House, 4575 W Ridge Rd, Erie PA. More info for future events is on NWPAPride.org.
Freedom Foods Grocer Spring Equinox Groundbreaking Ceremony
Join the Black Urban Gardeners and Farmers Of Pittsburgh Co-Op & The House of Manna on March 20, 2023, from 6 - 8 p.m. at 7420 Frankstown Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15208, for the groundbreaking ceremony of Freedom Foods Grocer.
PENNCREST School Board Director Jeff Brooks Not Running For Re-Election
PENNCREST school board director Jeff Brooks has decided not to run for re-election. The insults, accusations and debased behavior from those who oppose his positions apparently took their toll. Brooks made clear, however, that he is not going away.
Penn State Behrend GASE Drag Show Returns April 14
After a hiatus due to the pandemic, Penn State Behrend's LGBTQIA+ student group, GASE, is excited to bring back their drag show on April 14 following their week of programming. See the performances in McGarvey Commons in the Reed Union Building from 7 to 9 PM. The theme of this year's drag show is floral/spring and will feature Lola LeCroix and four other performers. GASE will be serving mocktails during the show.
Journey to a Trauma Informed Life Sign-Ups
In addition to events listed in the Erie Gay News calendar, Journey to a Trauma Informed Life, 201 W 11th St, Erie PA, is currently taking sign ups for LGBTQ+ Affirming classes, sessions and groups.
Werner Books Will Host Aging With Pride Book Club
Looking for a warm and friendly place for new and used books? Try Werner Books, 3514 Liberty Street, Erie, PA 16508, in the Liberty Plaza. I talked with Kyle Churman, who, along with his wife, Lauren Shoemaker, purchased Werner Books in March of 2022. They wanted to create a community space in Erie where anyone could come in and feel comfortable. They have added three book clubs to the already existing Wednesday Morning Book Club, which meets at Warner Books, offering a discount to members on the chosen books. Added were the Canalside Book Club, which meets at the Hagan History Center, the Books, and Beers Book Club, which meets at Erie Ale Works, and the Three Tulips Yarn Company Books Club, which meets at Werner Books. A fifth book club, the Aging with Pride Book Club, will begin meeting in May at Werner Books. For more information on these book clubs and other events, visit their website at www.wernerbooks.com.
Ashtabula County Pride is happening again!
For the third year in a row, the LGBTQ+ Coalition of Ashtabula County will hold a Pride event on June 3rd at the county fairgrounds in Jefferson, OH. The family-friendly event will be held from 11:00-5:00 that day, rain or shine. There will be a variety of food trucks, vendors, a bookmobile, community organizations, and various performances for kids and adults throughout the day. Admission is free. The Ashtabula county fairgrounds are located at 127 N Elm St, Jefferson, OH.
Erie City Fire Department Is Accepting Applications
The City of Erie Fire Department is hiring law enforcement personnel. Applications are being accepted from April 18-29, 2023. Applicants must meet certain requirements to become a City of Erie Firefighter. All qualifications are set by the City of Erie Civil Service Board. For a list of all qualification requirements, visit: efd.erie.pa.us/qualify
Erie City Police Department Is Accepting Applications
The City of Erie Police Department is hiring law enforcement personnel. Applications are being accepted from April 3, 2023 to June 30, 2023. Nearly 170 years of tradition set the Erie Police Department apart. Hiring its first African-American officer in 1904, and Pennsylvania's first female officer in 1916, EPD has consistently been ahead of its time. We are committed to diversity. We value our veterans. We serve the community first. Our training prepares us, but integrity determines how we respond. We are one team. We are called to serve and sworn to protect. And in everything we do-we'll have your back. Join a new generation of policing.
Compton's Table presentation: Empowering LGBTQ+ Youth, through Jefferson Education Society - Free Program TONIGHT!
THURSDAY, MARCH 9 at 7 p.m. - Wren Genua and Christina Salvia, M.S. Compton's Table: Empowering LGBTQ+ Youth Erie Center for Arts & Technology (ECAT) - Erie, PA. Compton's Table, a local nonprofit, was launched in 2021 to combat social isolation that led to increased suicidality among LGBTQ+ youth. Learn from board members Wren Genua and Christina Salvia, who will present on the past, present, and future of Compton's Table.
Deadline for April 2023 print edition (issue #329) of Erie Gay News is Monday, March 13, comes out Tuesday, March 21!
For the next Erie Gay News (issue # 329, cover-dated for April 2023), please send in-person and online events, news items, and other info for late March 2023 and beyond by Monday, March 13. We expect that the next edition will come out on Tuesday, March 21.
Compton's Table Sweet Re-Lease Fundraising Event on Feb 19
On February 19th, Compton's Table hosted their Sweet Re-Lease fundraising event. The organization opened their doors to showcase the new space located next to Central Outreach. All funds raised went directly back into the programming and services offered at Compton's Table for queer youth between 21-24 yrs old. The primary sponsors for the event were Moxi Hair Salon, Central Outreach, and VooDoo Brewery. Attendees enjoyed a performance by Optimistic Apocalypse as they supported the mission of Compton's Table. Founder and Board Chair, Dr. Tyler Titus (they/them), said, "We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received from the community. We could not do the work we do without those who contribute to Compton's so that we can create a safe, affirming space for our youth and young adults." Learn more at www.comptonstable.org
Entertainment and Travel
Logo series SPILL hosted by Johnny Sibilly returns on Tuesday, March 28
New York, NY (March 23, 2023) - Logo today announced that its top performing digital series, SPILL, will return Tuesday, March 28 - streaming on Logo's YouTube at 12PM ET.
Present and Future Stars of Marvel Comics Take Charge in MARVEL'S VOICES: PRIDE #1!
New York, NY- March 20, 2023 - MARVEL'S VOICES: PRIDE #1, the annual one-shot that celebrates LGBTQIA+ characters and creators, returns this June with more impact than ever!
Pride Journey: Coastal Mississippi
Every now and then I visit a destination I know absolutely nothing about. That happened a few years ago when I visited Oklahoma City and I fell in love with OKC. This time around, that destination was Coastal Mississippi, more specifically Biloxi, Gulfport, and Ocean Springs. In fact, the only thing I knew about the Biloxi was the hotel I stayed at, Beau Rivage. I knew it was owned by MGM Resorts, but that was about it. The rest of the trip was going to be a surprise.
"School of Rock" star Brian Falduto embraces his queerness through country music in new video
MARCH 9, 2023 (NEW YORK, NY) - Known for his iconic line "you're tacky and I hate you" in the cult hit classic, School of Rock, former child star turned rising queer country artist Brian Falduto has released the music video for "Same Old Country Love Song." Filled with references to Shania Twain, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood and more, the single received TikTok love from School of Rock co-star Jack Black (1.3M views), and influencer Tate Hoskins (1.5M views).
Local Faces and Photos
Community Spotlight #4: LBT Women of Erie
LBT Women of Erie is a social and support group for lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women. It was started in hopes of being a safe place for the LBT community to get together, make new friends and socialize in a safe environment.
G2H2 at Sullivan's Pub on March 3
G2H2 celebrated St. Patrick's Day a little early with their monthly get-together at Sullivan's Pub, 301 French St., Erie, PA, on Friday, March 3. The next event will be Friday, April 7, at Room 33 Speakeasy Cafe.
Political, Activism and Legal
National LGBTQ Task Force Debuts New Podcast Series Highlighting 50 Years of Advocacy, Organizing, and Intersectionality On International Transgender Day of Vis
MARCH 31st - Today, the National LGBTQ Task Force - the country's oldest LGBTQ advocacy organization - launched a new limited podcast series in honor of their 50th anniversary. Movement Moments: The National LGBTQ Task Force at 50 will span 6 episodes and feature deep discussion on topical issues facing the LGBTQ community today, including attacks on the trans community and the role of faith in movement while also reflecting on key moments throughout Task Force histo
The LGBTQ+ Community Speaks to Congress: HRC's Lobby Day Connects Advocates With Federal Lawmakers to Address Urgent Issues Affecting Our Rights
WASHINGTON - March 30, 2023 - The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization - today brought together more than 200 advocates for LGBTQ+ equality to flood the halls and offices of the Capitol and meet with lawmakers and staff and make clear the urgent priorities of our community and the dire threats we face.
Lambda Legal, Americans United Urge Supreme Court to Affirm Coworkers' Rights Cannot Be Burdened by Religious Accommodation in the Workplace
(Washington, DC, March 30, 2023) - Lambda Legal and Americans United for the Separation of Church and State (AU) today filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court arguing that employers must be free to consider the burdens imposed by a requested religious accommodation on coworkers and customers, including the dignitary harms of discrimination, in determining whether the accommodation would harm the employer's business.
"Outrageous:" Lambda Legal Condemns Ruling Striking Down Insurance Coverage of Preventative Services such as PrEP
(New York, March 30, 2023) - Today, U.S. District Judge Reed O'Connor issued a nationwide injunction striking down a key component of the Affordable Care Act, the U.S. Preventative Services Taskforce, retroactively to the inception of ACA in March of 2010. The basis is that the advisory committee was created in violation of the Appointments Clause in the Constitution. He also enjoined HHS from enforcing the USPSTF moving forward.
EEOC Sues T.C. Wheelers for Harassing and Driving Out Transgender Employee
BUFFALO, N.Y. - March 30, 2023 - T C Wheelers, Inc., which operates T.C. Wheelers Bar & Pizzeria in Tonawanda, New York, violated federal law when management and employees harassed an employee because of his gender identity, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a lawsuit filed today.
National AIDS Memorial Quilt Stops in Memphis to Break the Stigma and Change the Pattern Around AIDS in Black and Brown Communities
MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 22, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Memphis ranks eighth in the nation for new HIV cases per year among large cities in the United States, according to the Infectious Disease Society of America. In light of this research and the recent announcement regarding HIV prevention funding in Memphis, the National AIDS Memorial, Southern AIDS Coalition (SAC), and Gilead Sciences are working to 'change the pattern' in Memphis by bringing sections of the National AIDS Memorial Quilt to town. The Quilt honors Black and Brown lives lost to HIV and AIDS and has traveled to several states throughout the South as part of Change the Pattern, a national campaign to end HIV in Black, Brown, and LGBTQ+ communities across the Southern United States.
Equality California on Mass Shooting at Covenant School in Nashville, TN
WASHINGTON - Equality California, the nation's largest statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, released the following statements from Executive Director Tony Hoang and the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus in response to the mass shooting at Covenant School in Nashville, TN this morning which took the lives of three adults and three children.
Extremist House Leaders Advance Discriminatory Bill Denying Millions of Parents the Right to Make Decisions For their Kids
WASHINGTON - March 24, 2023 - The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization - condemned H.R. 5 - legislation that passed the U.S. House today - that aims to deny millions of parents the right to make decisions that are best for their children, and putting a straitjacket on teachers by continuing the trend of curriculum censorship seen in harmful, unnecessary bills passed in state legislatures recently. The bill - which picks and chooses which families have rights and which don't - has occupied the chamber's time while extremist House leaders continue neglecting the very real and urgent problems facing our schools, such as gun violence, teacher shortages and educational inequality.
Free Speech Groups Condemn Suppression of LGBTQ Expression in Florida
NEW YORK - As organizations dedicated to the freedom of thought, inquiry, and speech, we are deeply alarmed by Florida public officials' attempts to suppress LGBTQ expression. Legislative and administrative acts of intimidation aimed at deterring access to LGBTQ culture are a serious attack on First Amendment principles.
New Report Offers Most Comprehensive Look to Date at LGBTQI+ People's Financial Lives
The LGBTQI+ Economic and Financial (LEAF) Survey: Understanding the Financial Lives of LGBTQI+ People in the United States, released today, shines new light on the financial experiences and issues faced by LGBTQI+ people in the U.S. The report fills in critical gaps left by many federal and financial industry surveys that fail to include LGBTQI+ demographics.
Fairness Campaign Statement on Veto Override of SB150
March 29, 2023 - Attributed to Fairness Campaign Executive Director Chris Hartman: While we lost the battle in the legislature, our defeat is temporary. We will not lose in court. And we are winning in so many other ways. Thousands of Kentucky kids came to the Capitol today to make their voices heard against the worst anti-trans bill in the nation. They are our hope for a Kentucky future that is more fair, more just, and more beautifully diverse and accepting than ever before.
ICYMI: New Data Shows Support for LGBTQ+ Rights Reaches Highest Rates Ever Recorded
- 10% of Americans now identify as LGBTQ+
- Eight in ten Americans favor laws that would protect LGBTQ+ people against discrimination in jobs, public accommodations, and housing
- 66% of Republicans favor nondiscrimination provisions for LGBTQ+ people
- Seven in ten Americans support marriage equality, including nearly half of Republicans
- Nearly two-thirds of Americans (65%) oppose religiously based refusals to serve LGBTQ+ people
- Majorities of almost every major religious group oppose allowing religiously based service refusals
Advocates to Take Legal Action in Defense of Transgender Youth in Montana
HELENA, Mont. - March 24, 2023 - Lambda Legal, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the American Civil Liberties Union of Montana are reassuring the transgender youth of Montana that they will take any necessary legal action against a proposed ban on their health care currently being considered by the state.
Fairness Campaign Statement on Veto of SB150
We are so grateful Governor Andy Beshear chose to stand with Kentucky kids and their families today by vetoing Senate Bill 150. He has once again solidified his legacy as Kentucky's most pro-equality governor. Labeled the "worst anti-trans bill in the nation," SB150 allows the government to overrule parental rights at every turn. It denies parents the right to provide medically-supported healthcare for their kids. It allows teachers and school administrators to disrespect students by ignoring their names and pronouns, despite a parent's wishes. It bans the discussion of LGBTQ topics in the classroom and forces transgender kids into unsafe restrooms at school. SB150 will only lead to disaster and despair for transgender Kentucky kids and their families. That's why thousands of Kentuckians sent messages opposing SB150 and countless Kentucky doctors showed up in Frankfort to testify against it. We urge state lawmakers to read the governor's veto message, listen to medical professionals, and sustain Governor Beshear's veto
Under Fire: New MAP Report Details Eight Tactics that Attempt to Erase LGBTQ People from Schools and Public Life
March 23, 2023 - A report released today by the Movement Advancement Project (MAP) outlines how a series of coordinated political attacks is designed to erase LGBTQ people from schools and public life. The report is the second in a new MAP series, Under Fire: The War on LGBTQ People in America.
Gov. Brian Kemp Signs Gender-Affirming Care Ban Into Law, Making Georgia Largest State to Legislatively Enact Such a Discriminatory Ban
ATLANTA - March 23, 2023 - The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization - denounced Gov. Brian Kemp's decision to sign into law Senate Bill 140, legislation that will deny gender-affirming care to transgender and nonbinary youth in flagrant defiance of the best practices recommended by every major medical association.
Assembly Member O'Donnell Calls on Gov. Hochul To Ban Non-Essential State Travel to Six Anti-LGBTQ States
New York, NY - March 23, 2023 - Today, Assembly Member Danny O'Donnell sent a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul requesting that New York State ban all non-essential travel to six states that have recently passed anti-LGBTQ bills.
LGBTQ Equality Maps and State Bills Updates for March 2023
Included in this update: State policy updates, Local level policy updates, Two new Equality Maps, MAP's LGBTQ Equality Bill Tracker
New HRC Foundation Report: 3/4 of LGBTQ+ Community Believe Current Blood Donation Ban is Discriminatory and Ending Ban Should be Priority for Biden-Harris Admin
WASHINGTON - March 22, 2023 -- Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization, released new data detailing how LGBTQ+ community members believe ending the blood donation ban should be priority for the Biden-Harris Administration. The data reveal that nearly three-quarters of the LGBTQ+ community find the current blood donation policy, which prevents gay, bisexual, queer, and same-gender loving (GBQ/SGL+) men from donating blood if they had reported sexual conduct with a man in the prior 90 days, unacceptable. Over half (57.9%) of LGBTQ+ respondents agree or strongly agree that the proposed FDA changes to the blood donation policies, which would drop specific deferral guidelines for GBQ/SGL+ men, are a step forward; however, almost three quarters (72.3%) believe the proposed policy is still discriminatory, as a significant number of individuals would still be ineligible to donate. Nearly 90% believe the federal government needs to prioritize investing in more technologies and research to expand eligibility.
Outright International Condemns Passage of Uganda's Repressive Anti-Homosexuality Law
New York, New York - March 23, 2023 - Outright International has noted with regret the passage by Uganda's parliament on March 22 of the Anti-Homosexuality Bill. It's now up to President Yoweri Museveni to sign the bill into law. This next step would further entrench state-sanctioned discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people in the East African nation, who already face up to life in prison under the Penal Code currently in effect. The bill, which seeks to build on the original 2014 Anti-Homosexuality Act-later ruled invalid on procedural grounds-steamrolls over the right to freedom of expression, freedom of association, privacy, and non-discrimination The renewed effort to criminalize same-sex relationships and support for LGBTQ people's human rights feels like a loaded gun aimed at the lives and livelihoods of Ugandan LGBTQ people.
New HRC Data Reveals Over Half of Transgender Youth Ages 13-17 Could Soon Face Barriers to Life-Saving, Medically Necessary Gender Affirming Care
Washington, D.C. - March 22, 2023 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization, released data indicating that more than half (50.4%) of transgender youth (ages 13-17) have lost or are at risk of losing access to age appropriate, medically necessary gender-affirming care in their state - care which is, in many cases, life-saving. This alarming finding, as bans on gender affirming care are on the verge of going into effect in more than 10 states, is highlighted in a newly launched map developed by HRC that tracks legislative and administrative attacks on gender affirming care. Gender affirming care, when made in consultation between a provider, their patient, and the patient's parents, is backed by decades of research and is supported by every major medical association, representing over 1.3 million doctors nationwide.
Supreme Court Must Reject West Virginia's Effort to Deny a 12-Year-Old Girl Her Right to Play
WASHINGTON, D.C. - March 20, 2023 - Lambda Legal, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the ACLU of West Virginia urged the United States Supreme Court to reject an effort by West Virginia's Attorney General to block a 12-year-old transgender girl from continuing to participate in school sports with her peers.
Tennessee has recently passed anti-LGBTQ bans
Transgender Youth - Ban on gender-affirming care for transgender care for youth. The law also requires those under 18 now receiving gender-affirming care to detransition. Tennessee became the first U.S. state to pass a law restricting drag performances.
CPAC features anti-trans extremism in annual gathering
Far right speakers at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) spent a lot of time mocking, attacking, and lying about transgender and non-binary persons. CPAC is a gathering of rightwing extremists and Republicans. This year's turnout was much lower than previous years.
Michigan's legislature passed comprehensive lgbtq+ non-discrimination protections
LGBTQ+ Michiganders won permanent protections for sexual orientation and gender identity in the state's civil rights act, forbidding housing and public accommodations discrimination.
Human Rights Campaign Slams Idaho Bill That Prohibits Transgender Students from Using Bathrooms Consistent with Their Gender Identity
Boise, Idaho - March 18, 2023 - The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization - slammed today's vote in the Idaho House to pass S. 1100, legislation that prohibits transgender public school students from using bathrooms and locker rooms consistent with their gender identity.
Human Rights Campaign Slams Gov. Gordon's Decision to Allow Anti-Transgender Sports Ban To Become Law
Cheyenne, Wyoming - March 18, 2023 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization - is condemning Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon's decision to allow SF133, legislation that bans transgender students from playing sports consistent with their gender identity, to become law. In a statement, Gordon called said legislation is "overly draconian, is discriminatory without attention to individual circumstances or mitigating factors, and pays little attention to the fundamental principles of equality."
HRC Applauds Kansas Governor Laura Kelly for Blunting Latest Attack on LGBTQ+ Youth, Vetoing Legislators' Attempt to Ban Transgender Kids from School Sports
Topeka, KS - Mach 18, 2023 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization, commended Kansas Governor Laura Kelly for vetoing HB 2238, a bill banning the participation of transgender student-athletes in school sports. This is the third discriminatory sports ban Kelly has vetoed during her tenure as governor. Despite there only being three transgender students competing in school-related sports in Kansas, and the fact that today's veto has been expected, lawmakers continued to push this bill and promote misinformation and fear surrounding transgender people.
Human Rights Campaign Celebrates Landmark Victory as Michigan Enacts First-Ever LGBTQ+ Protections, Reaffirming that Elections Matter
Lansing, MICHIGAN - March 16, 2023 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization - commends Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer for signing into law a bipartisan amendment to the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA) that explicitly includes protections for sexual orientation and gender identity. This is the first statewide law in Michigan to prohibit discrimination against LGBTQ+ people, and is a repudiation against extremist lawmakers waging an anti-LGBTQ+ culture war across the country.
NY Assembly Member O'Donnell Introduces Dignity for All Students Update
Albany, New York - New York State Assembly Member Danny O'Donnel recently introduced legislation to update the Dignity for All Students Act, the landmark legislation to prevent and address bullying in schools. The updates reflect Assembly Member O'Donnell's extreme concern for the state of suicide prevention efforts in schools, and incorporates broad updates to oversight, teacher trainings, digital citizenship, and more
Georgia Lawmakers Threaten the Rights and Lives of Trans Youth by Voting to Ban Their Health Care
ATLANTA - March 16, 2023 - Ignoring the warnings of parents, medical providers, and transgender youth themselves, Georgia's House of Representatives advanced a bill today that would ban gender-affirming health care for anyone under 18. Next, the bill goes back to the state senate to vote on an addition that subjects physicians to harsh penalties if they provide this care for transgender and nonbinary youth. A vote could happen as soon as Monday and the bill could then be sent to the desk of Gov. Brian Kemp.
Statement in Opposition of Anti-LGBTQ+ Assembly Bill 1314
"The California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus is united in ensuring that our children are protected and safe. But legislation that aims to 'out' transgender and non-binary students against their will does not protect them - it puts them in potentially life threatening danger, subjecting them to trauma and violence. Additionally, the Trevor Project cites family conflict around youths 'LGBTQ identities as a driving factor contributing to LGBTQ youth homelessness.
Outright International and Alliance for Global Equality Renews Quest for LGBTIQ Rights
New York, New York - March 16, 2023 - Outright International and its partners are pleased to announce the launch of the Alliance for Global Equality, a five-year program to strengthen the resilience of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ) global movements. The program is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Oak Foundation, Dreilinden, and private sector partners.
Florida Parents Announce Lawsuit Challenging State Ban on Essential Medical Care for Transgender Children
TALLAHASSEE - March 16, 2023 - A new rule banning well-established, effective medical treatments for transgender youth with gender dysphoria takes effect in Florida today. As healthcare providers and researchers express alarm about the ban's disregard for science and medicine, a group of Florida parents committed to protecting the health and wellbeing of their children, and who are deeply concerned about the ban's impact, are preparing to challenge the rule in federal court.
LGBTQ+ Advocates Respond to West Virginia's Latest Attack on Transgender Youth
Charleston, W.Va. - March 9, 2023 - Lambda Legal, the American Civil Liberties Union, and ACLU-WV issued the following statement in response to the latest attack on transgender youth in the state, the West Virginia Attorney General's announcement that the state will ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review the recent U.S. Court of Appeals ruling allowing Becky Pepper-Jackson to participate in team sports pending her appeal.
Human Rights Campaign Applauds Michigan House for Bipartisan Passage of Civil Rights Law That Guarantees Protections for LGBTQ+ People
Lansing, MICHIGAN - March 8, 2023 - The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization - commends the Michigan House for passing an amendment to the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA) that explicitly includes protections for sexual orientation and gender identity. The bill passed with a bipartisan vote of 64-45 in favor, and now heads to Governor Whitmer's desk for her signature.
Registration for 7th Annual CommUNITY Rainbow Run Benefiting onePULSE Foundation is Now Open
ORLANDO, FL - March 7, 2023 -Registration is now open for the Seventh Annual CommUNITY Rainbow Run & CommUNITY Festival benefiting onePULSE Foundation. Scheduled for Saturday, June 3 at 8 a.m., the 4.9K run honors the 49 people killed in the Pulse nightclub tragedy, survivors and first responders, and is presented by Orlando Health and Hard Rock International in partnership with the UCF DeVos Sport Business Management Program.
Lambda Legal to 4th Circuit: Affirm Ruling Striking West Virginia Medicaid Ban on Gender-Affirming Care
(Richmond, VA, March 7, 2023) -- Today, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit heard oral argument in an appeal brought by West Virginia seeking to reverse a district court decision requiring the State's Medicaid program to treat transgender people's healthcare needs equally.
HRC President, Singer-Songwriter Shea Diamond, Drag Artists, Local LGBTQ+ Orgs Rally With Hundreds of Tennesseans Against Governor Lee
Nashville, Tennessee - March 10, 2023 - On the heels of Gov. Bill Lee enacting a pair of discriminatory bills targeting transgender youth and LGBTQ+ spaces and culture, last night the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) hosted the Slay Hate: Fight Back Tennessee rally at Nashville's local LGBTQ+ Tribe bar. Tennesseans maxed out the venue's capacity in support of the rally, sending a clear message to Governor Lee that he cannot silence us.
Ahead of Glenn Youngkin's CNN Town Hall, Human Rights Campaign Calls Out His Record of Attacking LGBTQ+ Virginians
WASHINGTON - March 9, 2023 - Tonight at 9:00 pm ET, ahead of an expected announcement of a 2024 presidential run, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin will host a CNN town hall with Jake Tapper. Youngkin has opposed marriage equality, rolled back protections for transgender students, jeopardizing their educational opportunities and dignity, and campaigned using transphobic and anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.
Human Rights Campaign: Extremists at CPAC Laid Bare Hatred at Root of Vile Legislation Targeting Trans People
WASHINGTON - March 6, 2023 - The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) - the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization - denounced the onslaught of transphobic statements threaded throughout the annual CPAC political gathering this past weekend. For several days extremist politicians and commentators peppered hateful statements toward trans people casually through remarks on unrelated topics. The wave of hatred culminated with a speech in which a Daily Wire commentator called for the "eradication" of transgender people.
Health
New HHS Report Released on Transgender Day of Visibility Offers Updated, Evidence-Based Roadmap for Supporting and Affirming LGBTQI+ Youth
A new report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific research and consensus that LGBTQI+ youth are resilient and can thrive when they are supported and affirmed, but that pervasive discrimination, rejection, and bullying of LGBTQI+ youth has led to a nationwide mental health crisis. The report finds that this crisis is most acute for transgender youth, whose mental health and wellbeing is put at risk by policies that seek to restrict their access to appropriate health care and inclusion at school. HHS is releasing this report today, on Transgender Day of Visibility, to uplift transgender youth and the parents, teachers, and providers who support them.
PrEP4All To Hold Emergency Virtual Town Hall this Tuesday In Response To Braidwood v. Becerra
PrEP4All and the HIV advocacy community are outraged at U.S. District Judge Reed O'Connor's decision in Braidwood v. Becerra, striking the requirement that most insurers cover a range of critical preventive services such as PrEP, HIV testing, STD screening, cancer screenings, diabetes screenings, and more . PrEP4All, joined by AVAC, HIV Medicine Association, Center for HIV Law & Policy, Lambda Legal, and other HIV prevention advocates, will host an emergency virtual town hall on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at 6:00 PM ET. We will help the community better understand the implications of Judge Reed's ruling and discuss next advocacy steps to ensure those in need of PrEP can access it.
Judge in US v. Gilead Responds to Calls for Transparency; Presses Gilead and DOJ to Justify Excessive Redactions and Sealing in Key Public Filings
Wilmington, DE - March 28, 2023 - On March 20, Judge Maryellen Noreika, presiding judge in the landmark patent infringement case United States v. Gilead Sciences, called for a hearing to review both the U.S. government and Gilead Sciences' reasons for excessive secrecy in their public case filings. The hearing will take place on April 4. This move follows a March 14 letter sent to the judge by Columbia Law School's Science, Health & Information Clinic on behalf of PrEP4All and the Public Interest Patent Law Institute (PIPLI), which flagged pervasive and unjustified redactions by Gilead and the U.S. government alike, requested justification for the parties' secrecy, and requested submission of new, less heavily redacted versions of their filings. Judge Noreika's call for a hearing marks a win for PrEP4All, PIPLI, and public interest and transparency advocates more broadly, as it indicates that she is concerned that the U.S. government and Gilead have improperly shielded much of their evidence and legal arguments from public view. PIPLI and PrEP4All applaud the Judge's rapid response to their letter calling for transparency.
Register Now For Second PrEP In Black America Summit New Orleans, LA May 19, 2023
Join Black HIV prevention advocates from across the U.S. for the second interactive PrEP In Black America Summit in New Orleans, LA on May 19, as we develop and build on existing strategies to increase PrEP access and awareness in the Black community. Thanks to continued support from The Red Hot Organization, we are able to offer the PrEP In Black America Summit at no cost to advocates and community members.
NAMI Peer-to-Peer Mental Health Support Group at Gannon on Tuesdays
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) hosts a peer-to-peer mental health support group at Gannon University that meets at 5 PM on Tuesdays in Palumbo 2205. The group's focus alternates between LGBT Q plus and commuter-focused, but all are welcome! For more information, don't hesitate to get in touch with ellswort010@gannon.edu.
Study: Children of same-sex parents see outcomes as good or better than heterosexual couples
Children of same-sex couples fare as well as children of heterosexual couples. In some cases, they may fare better. That was the finding of research published in the current issue of BMJ Global Health by researchers from the US and China. It was based on an analysis of 34 studies from countries where same-sex marriage is legal.
Come Join the HIV Task Force
If you're interested in learning more about the HIV prevention and treatment options in Erie County, or would like to volunteer with various outreach efforts, even help with planning HIV/AIDS events locally, consider joining the Erie County HIV Task Force [ECHTF]. The ECHTF is a collaboration of local organizations and individuals dedicated to educating, supporting, and advocating for people living with HIV/AIDS and preventing the spread of infection in Erie County, Pennsylvania. We are the not the first group to pursue these efforts, but the current version of previous groups that have existed in Erie County over the past 30 plus years. The ECHFT was formed in 2014 by the Erie County Health Department and has been bringing together Erie County volunteers to increase the awareness of HIV, its treatment, and prevention for our residents. To learn more about our activities or submit questions/comments, contact us at 814-315-3375 or admin@echiv.org.
PrEP4All Appreciates Ongoing Biden Commitment to National PrEP Program in FY24 Budget
(New York, NY) As part of his FY24 Budget Request released last week, President Biden once again included a $9.8B ten-year proposal for a National PrEP Program. PrEP4All reiterates its gratitude for this vision for a robust PrEP program, which was first proposed last year, and appreciates the Administration's ongoing commitment to establish a National PrEP Program. As we approach 11 years since FDA approval of PrEP, advocates urge the White House to move forward as soon as possible to put in place a national PrEP initiative using discretionary funding to more quickly increase PrEP equity and end current disparities based on race, ethnicity, gender and geography. Increased PrEP access and uptake also would improve health outcomes and reduce health care costs.
Spring into action: Give blood with the Red Cross
March 16, 2023 - Spring is near! As the seasons change, the American Red Cross is reminding the public that the need for blood doesn't take a break. Blood and platelets remain at risk of running low this month. Donors are crucial to helping the Red Cross avoid a blood shortage in the weeks to come.
Letters, Columnists and Opinion
A visit to a British LGBTQ+ Museum and Oscar Wilde's jail cell door
When I was planning my trip to London last month to speak on LGBT History, it was requested that I add a speaking stop at the Queer Britain museum, which focuses on British LGBTQ history and culture. I didn't know much about it, since it just opened last year. But as I learned more, my speaking there soon became one of the more interesting events that I was looking forward to.
The War on Drag Queens and Story Time
Facts: drag queen story time was invented in 2015 by a woman named Michelle Tea who felt that story time events at libraries were too heteronormative. Another reason was that we needed to get kids back to children's stories rather than new media and social media. Hence the idea to get kids back into libraries. That is a noble effort.
Contests
Enter to win The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants
Enter to win The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, April 18, and Tuesday, May 9.
Enter to win All Our Fears DVD from Ariztical Entertainment!
Enter to win All Our Fears DVD from Ariztical Entertainment. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, March 28, and Tuesday, April 19.
Enter to win an autographed graphic novel set featuring Arena Takes Manhattan!
Enter to win an autographed graphic novel set featuring Arena Takes Manhattan! To enter the contest, fill out the form below between Friday, March 24, and Friday, April 14. Each winner will win a set of three autographed graphic novels: the brand-new Arena Takes Manhattan, plus Jayson Goes to Hollywood and Jayson Gets a Job.
Enter to win Like Me DVD from Breaking Glass Pictures!
Enter to win Like Me DVD from Breaking Glass Pictures! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, March 21, and Tuesday, April 11.
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