Another Successful "Ted" Talk in Erie

By Shari Gross

Wednesday, June 17th, brought Ted Hoover, Director of Education and Training from the Persad Center, to the Erie Center for Arts and Technology. Sponsored by the Erie Gay News, Compton's Table, The LGBT Fund of the Erie Community Foundation, Presque Isle Rise Up Indivisible, Aging with Pride, and Bears Do Dinner, the topic for the talk was "LGBTQ+ and Law Enforcement". Ted has been a popular presenter locally on LGBTQ+ culture, health, legal rights, and history. He shared a history of LGBTQ+ rights, laws, and Federal acts that impact us today. The attendees learned about the legal definition of "hate" crimes and the evolution of legislation to address them. Ted also shared some tips regarding reporting crimes against LGBTQ+ people and the use of social media. The presentation was made possible by funding through the Persad Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the second licensed LGBTQ+ mental health clinic in the nation. Thanks to Compton's Table for securing the location and sharing some Pride-related giveaways, and the LGBT Fund for providing refreshments.

About the Author

Shari Gross

Shari Gross is a life-long resident of Erie, Pennsylvania. She has a master's degree in clinical psychology from Penn West University in Edinboro Pennsylvania, has had a long career in non-profit and government administration and consultation, and currently runs a non-profit psychiatric treatment facility for youth. She is the President of the Erie Food Co-op, a leader at Presque Isle Rise Up and Advisory Board member for the LGBT Fund at the Erie Community Foundation. She is an activist for peace and human rights, yoga enthusiast, singer/songwriter and a still-as-of-yet unpublished author of adult fiction novels.