September, 2025 News (63 Articles with 55,030 total views)
On the cover of the print edition for September, 2025 Erie Pride 365 organizer Dalen Hooks receiving a proclamation from Gov. Shapiro delivered by Ash Strange, Executive Director of Gov. Commission on LGBTQ Affairs. Photo by Michael Mahler.
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
Little Ghouls Welcome: Disney's Haunted Mansion, Midnight Madness, & More at the 2025 Eerie Horror Fest
ERIE, PA - The Eerie Horror Fest will once again take over the historic Warner Theatre this fall, bringing two days of sinister cinema and freakish fun on Friday, October 10th and Saturday, October 11th.
Erie County Human Relations Commission Hosts Event on Disability Rights and Protections
Erie, PA - 8/25/2025 - The Erie County Human Relations Commission (HRC) is proud to announce an upcoming workshop, "Advancing Access and Inclusion: Disability as a Protected Class," on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. The event will be held at the Admiral Room, Erie County Library, 160 E. Front St., Erie, PA 16507.
In Memoriam: Robyn James Post
Robyn James Post, 48, of North East, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 in Ohio. He was born on August 5, 1977 in Erie, Pennsylvania to Gary and Patricia (Vance) Post.
Aging With Pride Dinner at Syd's Place
On Thursday, July 24, Aging With Pride had their monthly dinner at Syd's Place, 2922 W Lake Rd, Erie, PA. Aging With Pride dinners are usually the last week of the month. The next dinner will be on Tuesday. September 30, at McGarrey's Oakwood Cafe, 1624 W 38th St, Erie, PA, 16508. In addition to monthly dinners, Aging With Pride meets twice a month for planning and discussion, as well as a book club on the third Saturday of the month and a game night on the second Thursday of the month.
July Meadville Happy Hour
NW PA Pride Alliance held its Meadville Happy Hour on July 23, 2025, at Julian's Bar & Grill, 299 Chestnut Street. Meadville Happy Hours will continue to be held on the 4th Wednesday of each month at Julian's. Erie Queer Happy Hour rotates through four different establishments. The next Erie Queer Happy Hour will be on Tuesday, September 2, from 6 to 8 PM at Lavery Brewing, 128 W 12th St, Erie PA
Meadville Pride 2025: A Community Coming Together
On Saturday, July 26th, Diamond Park in Meadville came alive with music, laughter, and a whole lot of pride as the community gathered for Meadville Pride on the Diamond. From 1pm to 5pm, the park became a vibrant hub of celebration, connection, and unapologetic joy.
Erie Pride 365 Block Party on Aug 9
Erie, PA - On August 9, more than 300 people filled Perry Square for Erie Pride 365's second annual Pride Block Party, a vibrant day of community, wellness, and celebration. From high-energy performances by Money Mook Dawg to wellness services that connected 28 people with screenings and PrEP education, the event highlighted both joy and health. A special moment came when Ash Strange, Executive Director of the Governor's Commission on LGBTQ Affairs, presented organizer Dalen Hooks, a 2025 40 Under 40 honoree, and Erie Pride 365 with a proclamation recognizing August 9 as "Erie Pride 365 Day" and honoring Pride Month across Pennsylvania.
Celebrate Aging with Pride
Aging with Pride (AWP) presented the first Celebrate Aging with Pride Recognition Award on August 21, 2025, to Alyssa Rubilotta, Manager of the Wooden Ladle. The award is to recognize individuals or businesses who have been extremely supportive of the older members of the LGBTQ+ Community. Alyssa has gone the extra mile in welcoming AWP and other groups at the Wooden Ladle. The award includes a certificate and a glass wall hanging of the art piece "Celebrate Aging with Pride" by local artist Kem. The original artwork is on display in the office of Lake Erie Counseling here in Erie. If you would like to learn more about the award, please reach out to Pete Genco at 814.384.9785.
Fall Groups at Journey to a Trauma Informed Life
As the seasons shift, fall invites us to turn inward-toward reflection, creativity, and deeper healing. This September, Journey to a Trauma Informed Life, 201 W 11th St, Erie PA, is offering three unique group experiences designed to support your wellness journey, whether you're processing trauma, exploring identity, or just looking for a new way to connect. Apply for therapy groups at https://atraumainformedlife.com/submit-your-group-therapy-application-information/
Erie Gives Day 2025: Queer Organizations Fared Well
Erie's LGBTQ+ nonprofits brought the queer power this Giving Day, each making meaningful gains for their missions and for our community. Here's how they did and a little about what each one brings to the table.
32nd Annual Erie Pride Picnic: Joining Together at Presque Isle
The spirit of summer and community came alive on Saturday, August 16, 2025, as nearly 200 attendees gathered at Presque Isle State Park's Rotary Pavilion near Beach 7 for the 32nd Annual Pride Picnic. Hosted by NWPA Pride Alliance, the event proved once again why it remains one of Erie's most cherished traditions.
Community Spotlight: OddCity Entertainment
Founded in 2024 by Cypher Eihwaz, OddCity Entertainment was born from a deep love of underground music, immersive experiences, and inclusive spaces. What started as a few house shows with friends quickly grew into a community-focused production company redefining the live event scene in Erie, PA.
LGBTQIA+ Discussion Group
LGBTQIA+ discussion group starting up again. There will be regular meetings every Thursday at 1 PM at 1330 W. 26th St, Erie (UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor.) Any person who is part of or affiliated with the LGBTQIA+ community is welcome.
LGBT Fund Announces Annual Grant Opportunity
The LGBT Fund of the Erie Community Foundation will be opening applications for its annual grant program on September 8, 2025, providing critical support for organizations serving the LGBTQ+ community. Since its inception, the Fund has awarded nearly $35,000 to initiatives that address urgent needs such as safe schools, housing security for homeless youth, mental health support, suicide prevention, housing equality, and family services.
Mercyhurst (MIAC): Spotlight on Queer Performances
This fall, the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture (MIAC) is home to a series of engaging performances by queer-authored and queer-celebrated artists, ushering in an exciting cultural season with heart, humor, and resonance for LGBTQ+ audiences.
21st Anniversary Pink Party Benefit
For 21 years, our community has come together to show its incredible heart, and it's time to do it again. Join The Zone, 133 W 18th St, Erie, PA, for the beloved Michelle Michaels' Pink Party Benefit Weekend October 3 & 4, a two-night event where we party with a powerful purpose.
Governor's Advisory Commission on LGBTQ Affairs Announces 2025-27 Commissioners
Harrisburg, Pa - August 11, 2025 - Today, the Governor's Advisory Commission on LGBTQ Affairs announced the appointment of 28 commissioners that will make up its 2025-27 advisory board. The Commission's purpose is to gather information regarding LGBTQ Pennsylvanians' experiences and needs; review, evaluate, and assess programs affecting them; provide the Governor with information and recommendations regarding how best to meet their needs; and provide information about programs and services that may be relevant to LGBTQ Pennsylvanians' needs. The Commission was established by Governor Josh Shapiro through an Executive Order(opens in a new tab).
In Memoriam: Joey Grego
Joey Grego passed away peacefully at his home on August 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Joey was born May 16, 1956, in Bradford, PA, the son of Lucille (Carrara) and Joseph Grego. His life was extraordinary in so many ways, and he forged many legacies. Firstly, Joey found the support of his family to live his life and be who he was. There were no judgments in the Grego household; only loving support from his large Italian Catholic family. The loving acceptance Joey enjoyed provided a solid foundation for the rest of his life.
Aging with Pride to Cruise in Pittsburgh
On September 5th, members of Aging with Pride (AWP) will travel to Pittsburgh to meet and socialize with members of Older Wiser Leaders (OWLS) from the Persad Center. The day will include a luncheon and a trip on the Gateway Clipper, Pittsburgh's famous river tour boat. AWP members will carpool from Erie to Pittsburgh. This is the second time that members of AWP have met with the OWLS; the first being a trip to Erie by the OWLS earlier this year. This is also the second time that AWP members have traveled to Pittsburgh. The first trip was to visit the Warhol Museum and to have lunch on Pittsburgh's North Shore.
Still, They Resisted presentation on June 4
On June 4, 2025, more than 40 members of the community attended "Still, They Resisted," a powerful and affirming presentation brought to Erie by UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor.
Deadline for September 2025 print edition (issue #358) of Erie Gay News is Friday, August 15, comes out Tuesday, August 26!
For the next Erie Gay News (issue # 358, cover-dated for September 2025), please send in-person and online events, news items, and other info for late August, 2025 and beyond by Friday, August 15. We expect the next edition to come out on Tuesday, August 26.
Brittany Morton to Headline Erie Pride 365 Block Party on Aug 9 in Perry Square
Get ready, Erie! The Erie Pride 365 Block Party is bringing the HEAT on Saturday, August 9th at Perry Square from noon to 8 PM, and we’re excited to welcome Brittany Morton to the stage! Free, all ages, and full of PRIDE!
True North: Learn to Ride EMTA + Library Tour on Aug 5
Never ridden the bus before? No worries! Compton's Table True North program is here to help. We'll learn how to use the EMTA bus system and take a guided tour of the public library on August 5 from 3 to 6 PM. Build confidence navigating the city while discovering free resources in your community. Email info@comptonstable.org to register. This programming is free for participants thanks to the LGBT Fund of the Erie Community Foundation.
Compton's Table Back to School Event with Macy's - August 24th. Deadline to apply/nominate is August 3!
Compton's Table is teaming up with Macy's again to make back-to-school shopping affirming and empowering. Participants will be able to shop before the store opens to the public to pick out outfits that reflect their authentic selves. Nominations/applications are open to Queer youth/young adults who are 12-21 years old. This event is by invitation only-details will be sent directly to those selected. Nominate someone here
Entertainment and Travel
Buffalo United Artists proudly presents The Last Croissant
Buffalo United Artists is proud to present, 'The Last Croissant' by Veronica Tjioe, directed by Jason Francey. 'The Last Croissant' is an existential farce, following nine campers sharing a crowded campsite and exploring themes of identity and self-discovery. Premiering for the Curtain Up 2025, 'The Last Croissant' incorporates magical realism, clowning and features characters dealing with crises like mysterious origami cranes, vanishing snacks, overly zealous bird watchers, and a talking bear. Pull up a chair to our communal campfire this Fall to explore the transformative power of nature and challenge traditional norms such as age, gender and sexuality.
Shabnam Jannesari brings She Sat Where The Light Awaited to Erie Art Museum
Erie, PA - Iranian-born Shabnam Jannesari will be the next artist to exhibit in the Erie Art Museum's main gallery, opening September 4th during the Art After Dark concert series. Influenced by the rich visual culture of her birthplace, Isfahan, Jannesari's paintings incorporate flat patterns and bold forms to explore abstraction, memory, and identity. Her highly saturated palette draws from childhood memories, such as the colorful carpet in her grandparents' home in Iran. These carpets, symbolic of paradise, inspire a dreamlike world where past and present merge. In her paintings, Jannesari transforms her closest friends and family into figures in surreal and hopeful visions of an alternate reality, expressing deeply personal stories that are also relatable to women who have been censored, sexualized, or oppressed by patriarchal social structures.
Nashville, Tennessee: A Vibrant Destination for LGBTQ Travelers
Nashville, Tennessee, affectionately known as "Music City," has long been a hub of culture, creativity, and hospitality. From its historic roots in country music to its burgeoning culinary scene and inclusive nightlife, Nashville offers a dynamic array of experiences for every traveler. As a former resident, I can attest to Nashville being a welcoming and inclusive community for all.
Masquerade at the Museum Returns for 2025
Erie, PA - The Erie Art Museum will host its third annual Masquerade at the Museum on Saturday, October 18th, from 7 pm - 11 pm. This year's event includes multiple performances including live music by the V Band as well as dance performances from Erie Dance Theater and Anna Haller.
The San Francisco of the East: Historic Boston Never Disappoints
I visited Boston not once but twice on back to back trips for work recently. Boston is a walker's paradise full of stories about the founding of our country. It's a vibrant city with many universities, top notch transit, interesting unique neighborhoods, and part of the entire New England charm. I stayed in the Seaport District which is close to South Boston and filled with new walking trails, beaches, parks, restaurants, and hotels. It reminded me of my former home, San Francisco: very walkable, interesting unique neighborhoods, an international flair (lots of foreign visitors including Quebecers), and expensive ($2800 for a one bedroom apartment, $300+ a night for a hotel).
Bear World TV Launches August 7
Bear World Magazine, the world's leading lifestyle publication for the global bear community, is proud to announce the launch of Bear World TV: a vibrant new video platform delivering weekly doses of news, entertainment, and culture created specifically for and by the bear community. Launching August 7, Bear World TV will stream on Bear World Magazine's website, YouTube channel, and social media platforms.
Political, Activism and Legal
Settlement in Landmark Solitary Confinement and HIV Discrimination Case Against Missouri Department of Corrections
(Jefferson City, MO, August 21, 2025) - Today, Lambda Legal, the MacArthur Justice Center, and law firm Shook, Hardy & Bacon announced a settlement in Monroe, Administratrix of the Estate of Honesty Bishop v. Foley, et. al.,a federal lawsuit alleging that a discriminatory Missouri Department of Corrections' ("MODOC") policy resulted in the prolonged use of solitary confinement against people living with HIV.
Lambda Legal Condemns Trump Administration's Illegal Exclusion of Gender-Affirming Care from Government Employee Health Benefits
(WASHINTON, DC, August 19, 2025) - Lambda Legal today condemned the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's announcement that it will exclude coverage for gender-affirming care for adults from the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) and Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) programs beginning in 2026.
Lambda Legal Asks Court to Block Discriminatory Restroom Ban in Idaho Universities
(Boise, ID, August 15, 2025) - Lawyers for two transgender plaintiffs today urged the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho to block temporarily enforcement of an Idaho law that blocks them from using communal restrooms at Boise State University and the University of Idaho.
VICTORY! Court Affirms Ruling Finding Premera Blue Cross Discriminated Against Transgender Adolescents
(Seattle, WA, August 13, 2025) - The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington yesterday affirmed its April ruling that Premera Blue Cross's arbitrary and categorical policy to deny coverage for gender-affirming chest surgery for transgender patients under 18, regardless of the patient's medical needs, unlawfully discriminated based on sex in violation of the Affordable Care Act's anti-discrimination law, known as Section 1557.
District Court Blocks NIH Effort to Terminate Critical Research Grants Relating to LGBTQI+ Health
(Greenbelt, MD, August 1, 2025) - Today, a U.S. district court judge blocked the National Institutes of Health from terminating hundreds of research grants that funded essential research addressing the health of sexual and gender minorities, including critical HIV research. The court ruling followed the hearing in GLMA v. NIH, the lawsuit filed by Lambda Legal, alongside law firms Crowell & Moring LLP and Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP on behalf of GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ+ Equality and 16 individual health researchers whose funding was eliminated or whose grant applications have been unlawfully withheld from review.
Lambda Legal Condemns Trump's Devastating Betrayal of Transgender Troops Denied Retirement Benefits
(Washington, DC - August 8, 2029) - The U.S. Air Force has announced it will deny early retirement options to all transgender service members with 15-18 years of service, instead separating them from the military without retirement benefits. The decision comes after the Supreme Court allowed the Pentagon to proceed with banning all transgender troops.
New Report from MAP and The Trevor Project Underscores Harms of Conversion "Therapy" and Highlights States with Protections
July 31, 2025 - Today, the Movement Advancement Project and The Trevor Project released a new report that spotlights the harms of conversion "therapy" and details the shifting landscape of efforts to protect LGBTQ young people against this abuse. With the U.S. Supreme Court set to hear a case this fall (Chiles v. Salazar) challenging the legality of these protections, this report offers a timely analysis into the history of these laws, the present landscape, and the importance of continuing to protect LGBTQ youth
Lawsuit Challenges EEOC's Unlawful Refusal to Protect Transgender Workers from Discrimination
Maryland - July 29, 2025 - The National Women's Law Center (NWLC) and Democracy Forward today filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, on behalf of FreeState Justice, against the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and its Acting Chair Andrea Lucas for unlawfully refusing to enforce federal workplace protections for transgender workers.
FBI's Annual Crime Report: Hate Crimes Against LGBTQ+ Community Remain Among Top 3 Most Reported Categories
WASHINGTON - August 5, 2025 - The latest annual crime report from the FBI highlights once again that while overall violent crime in the U.S. continues to decline, hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community remain alarmingly high - an especially concerning report coming as the Trump administration, Republican-controlled Congress, and right-wing state lawmakers continue to level legislative, administrative and personal attacks against LGBTQ+ people.
Despite National Political Tensions, Argentina Leads with Record-Breaking LGBT+ Workplace Equality, Impacting 285,600 Employees
BUENOS AIRES - July 29, 2025 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRCF), in partnership with Instituto de Políticas Públicas LGBT+ released the 2025 HRC Equidad Argentina (Equidad AR) which reveals 93 organizations - including 75 private companies, 16 universities, and two embassies - have implemented inclusive policies benefiting 285,600 employees, a 27% increase from the previous year. Of these 93 organizations, 60 earned the "Mejores Lugares para Trabajar LGBT+ 2025" ("Best Places to Work for LGBT+") certification for their commitment to creating inclusive and equitable workplaces for LGBT+ employees. Amid political tensions in Argentina, where the national government has actively opposed key principles that drive business, including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies and LGBT+ rights, Argentine companies are still making remarkable strides in LGBT+ workplace inclusion.
Human Rights Campaign Launches Nationwide "American Dreams Tour" To Elevate LGBTQ+ Voices and Reclaim the Promise of a More Inclusive Future
WASHINGTON, DC - July 28, 2025 - Today, the Human Rights Campaign announced the launch of the American Dreams Tour: Equality Across America-a bold, nationwide initiative to spotlight LGBTQ+ resilience, resistance and joy at a time of rising political attacks and cultural erasure. Beginning this Wednesday in Columbus, Ohio, and running through November 2025, the tour will travel to cities and towns across the country to celebrate the communities pushing back against hate and fighting for a future of equality for all.
NWLC condemns U.S. Olympics banning trans women athletes
WASHINGTON - July 22, 2025 - The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee recently issued a policy complying with President Trump's lawless, transphobic executive order calling for sporting organizations to exclude transgender girls and women from competition.
Health
A little good goes a long way: Give blood or platelets with Red Cross and PEANUTS
[Aug. 25, 2025] - The American Red Cross asks donors to give blood or platelets now to help maintain a healthy blood supply. Donors of all blood types, especially those with types O positive and B negative blood, are urged to make an appointment to keep lifesaving blood products ready the moment patients need them.
Seven of Life's Biggest Challenges
from Michael Dale Kimmel of Life Beyond Therapy: It's not possible to go through life without dealing with challenges/problems/difficulties. The question isn't: "Will you have to deal with them?" The question is: "How will you handle them when they're in your face?"
Aging Well With HIV Virtual Workshop
Are you or anyone you know age 55 or older living with HIV and dealing with health conditions related to aging? Join the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging for a new virtual Self-Management program to empower you to age helpfully and with dignity and respect.
Follow this safety checklist from the American Red Cross as your student heads back to school
Maintain a healthy blood supply and celebrate wellness by giving blood or platelets in August
[Aug. 6, 2025] - During National Wellness Month, the American Red Cross encourages people to prioritize their personal health and well-being while helping to save lives with a blood or platelet donation. Donors of all blood types - especially those with type O positive or B negative blood - are asked to make an appointment now to prevent a further drop in donor turnout.
Yoga, Sex and Anxiety
By Michael Dale Kimmel of Life Beyond Therapy In the United States, approximately 36 million adults regularly practice yoga. This represents a significant increase from previous years, with a 50% increase in practitioners in the past 5 years alone. About 1 in 3 Americans have tried yoga at least once. Exercise trends come and go, but after 2,200 years, yoga is more popular than ever.
Help save lives with the Red Cross by giving blood or platelets now
[July 22, 2025] - The American Red Cross calls on donors to give blood or platelets now to maintain a steady national blood supply. Type O blood donors are especially key to keeping critical blood products on hospital shelves into August.
Spirituality and Religion
Radiant Faith, September 23 - Episcopal Cathedral of St. Paul, 143 W. 7th St.
As part of Erie Episcopal's Sacred Pathways series at the Cathedral of St. Paul, the queer community is invited to join us for Radiant Faith once/month this fall. We are grateful to Compton's Table for their co-sponsorship of this new offering. The next event is Tuesday, September 23 at the Episcopal Cathedral of St. Paul, 143 W 7th St.
Letters, Columnists and Opinion
Act Up 4 Trans Justice and Pittsburgh Healthcare Workers and Scientists (PGHS) Statement on Lawsuit to Reinstate Gender Affirming Care
Governor Josh Shapiro, on behalf of the state of Pennsylvania, joined 15 other states, and Washington D.C., in filing a lawsuit on Friday August 1, 2025 to block the Trump Administration's federal investigations into medical providers who provide gender-affirming healthcare to youth and adults under 19 years old.
Contests
Enter to win The Macabre!
Enter to win The Macabre! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, September 16 and Tuesday, October 7. USA residents only, please.
Enter to win Middle Spoon
Enter to win Middle Spoon by Jesse James Rose. To enter the contest, fill out the form below between Friday, September 12, and Friday, October 3.
Enter to win A Hexcellent Chance to Fall in Love
Enter to win A Hexcellent Chance to Fall in Love by Jesse James Rose. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, September 9, and Tuesday, September 30.
Enter to win MOUNTED: On Horses, Blackness, and Liberation!
Enter to win MOUNTED: On Horses, Blackness, and Liberation! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, September 5 and Friday, September 26. USA residents only, please.
Enter to win Wolf and Dog!
Enter to win Wolf and Dog! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, September 2 and Tuesday, September 23.
Enter to win a digital download of Not Home for the Holidays by Isabella Drake!
Enter to win a digital download of Not Home for the Holidays by Isabella Drake! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, August 29, and Friday, September 19.
Enter to win Rent Free!
Enter to win Forever Bound with Tinsel e-book from Riverdale Avenue Books!
Enter to win Forever Bound with Tinsel e-book from Riverdale Avenue Books! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, August 22, and Friday, September 12.
Enter to win a digital download of Jingle Balls - A Christmas Anthology by Cecilia Tan!
Enter to win a digital download of Jingle Balls - A Christmas Anthology by Cecilia Tan! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, August 19, and Tuesday, September 9.
Enter to win a digital download of Dyke The Halls!
Enter to win a digital download of Dyke The Halls! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, August 15, and Friday, September 5.
Enter to win Dead in Love Digital Download from Ariztical Entertainment!
Enter to win Dead in Love Digital Download from Ariztical Entertainment. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, August 1, and Friday, August 22.
History
Stonewall Museum Unveils Harvey Fierstein's Tony Award Robe in Historic Display
Ft. Lauderdale, FL, (July 28, 2025) - Stonewall National Museum, Archives, & Library (SNMAL), one of the nation's leading historical institutions fighting to protect LGBTQ+ rights, and proudly showcases an iconic addition to its expansive collection of LGBTQ+ memorabilia- the Broadway 'Torch Song Trilogy' robe worn by award-winning actor, playwright, screenwriter, and recent 2025 Lifetime Achievement Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein.
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