Erie, PA - April 25, 2025 - Recent changes in immigration policy at the federal level have caused a great deal of fear and uncertainty among our immigrant and refugee population. These fears have, in turn, generated many rumors about the role of local law enforcement with respect to the apprehension, incarceration, and cooperation with federal agencies in the deportation of immigrants. These rumors have wrongly created a divide between our police officers and the very people that they are sworn to protect and serve.

On Monday, March 31, TransFamily of NW PA invited community members to a gathering in Erie's Perry Square to commemorate International Transgender Day of Visibility. This year's celebration included local speakers and a walk around Perry Square, followed by a social time with light refreshments. If you would like support or receive more information about resources in the area, reach out to them at their website, transfamilynwpa.org.

Candidates for Erie County Executive, Erie County Council, Erie City Mayor, and Erie City Council were asked about their positions on LGBTQIA+ issues. Their responses appear below.  A reminder that the last day to register to vote in this year's primary election is May 5. The last day to apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot is May 13, and PA's primary election will be on Tuesday, May 20.

On Saturday, May 10, from 11 AM to 1 PM, the Erie Queer Community will come together once again to support local families through their Second Harvest Food Drive. Hosted at Central Outreach Wellness Center, located at 3104 State St, Erie, PA, this meaningful event invites all members of the community to donate non-perishable food items. All donations will remain local and be distributed by the Second Harvest Food Bank of NW Pennsylvania, ensuring that the support stays within our region.

We are so excited and honored to announce that Sisters PGH is now offering FREE behavioral health services for trans and nonbinary folks in Pittsburgh + Allegheny County.

Erie, PA - April 14, 2025 - The City of Erie is holding its annual tire and electronics recycling event Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the City of Erie Municipal Garage Complex, 1926 Holland St. The event is free to City of Erie residents.

Rainbow Fest was more than just an event - it became a vibrant celebration of love, equality, and individuality. Held on April 5, 2025 in the heart of downtown Erie at Basement Transmissions, this year's OddCity Entertainment Pride festival brought people together for a day filled with connection, creativity, and unforgettable moments. Attendees came to embrace the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community, support local artists and performers, and enjoy the lively atmosphere that Rainbow Fest had to offer.

National Honor Our LGBTQ+ Elders Day is Friday, May 16, 2025.   Established in 2015 by Baltimore's Chase Brexton Health Services, National Honor Our LGBTQ+ Elders Day gained national recognition through social media and the numerous contributions made by LGBTQ+ seniors. There are approximately 2.7 million LGBTQ+ adults aged 50 and older in the United States.

On the first and third Sunday of the month, you can find a group of fun, active, senior members of the LGBTQ+ community gathering as Aging With Pride plannnig social activities, outings and events, savoring delicious refreshments, and laughing and enjoying each other's company. Aging With Pride is an organization that was first formed in 2017 but had its rebirth after COVID in 2022. The group was founded by Dale Allgeier after he had become aware of the need for older LGBTQ+ community members to have a forum to connect, and plan and host social, recreational and educational activities and events.

Erie PA [March 20, 2025] Journey: Healing Together is excited to announce Cupcake Wars!, a deliciously fun fundraiser happening this May in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. This friendly cupcake competition will bring together local bakers, businesses, and community members to raise awareness and funds for mental health initiatives. Cupcake Wars will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 12:30 to 3 PM at 201 West 11th St, Erie PA, 16501. About 100 attendees are expected. Voting entry fee is a $5 donation, and baker entry is a $25 deposit.