CommUNITY Newsletter Fall 2019

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I S S U E

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Table of Contents 4. Our Mission

16-17. Summer Leadership Camp 2019

5. Letter from our President

18. Pride Center Support Counseling Services

7. Out in the Garden

19. Business Alliance

9. Health Insurance Enrollment Services

20. As We Age

10. How Can I help?

23. Legal Ease

11. Love Wins!

24. Partners In Pride

13. Pride Center Programs

26. Why Voting Matters for Young People

14. Transgender Day of Remembrance

27. Letter from the Executive Director

16-17. Summer Leadership Camp 2019

28. Index of Pride Center Programs and Services

Meet our Board of Directors Board Officers • President: Cynthia Bott, Ph.D. • Vice-President: Scott Levine • Treasurer: Stephanie Slominski, CIA • Secretary: Meghan Baxter Board Directors • John Daniels • Ulysses deArmas • Victoria Esposito • Robbie Gardner • David Kahn • Rebecca Kelley • Maggie Morrison • David Reed • Lance Rider • Laura Siracuse

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Our Mission T

he mission of the Pride Center of the Capital Region is to promote the well-being of all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified people and those affected by discrimination based on gender identity and expression. Based in Albany, the Pride Center has been meeting the diverse needs of LGBTQ people in a ten county region since 1970.

We are the oldest continuously operating LGBTQ center in the country. Our programs, both at the Center (332 Hudson Ave in Albany) as well as held throughout the region, meet the health and human service needs of the LGBTQ community as well as educate and advocate for those needs in the broader Capital Region. As the oldest continuously-operating LGBTQ community center in the country, the Pride Center works to build a welcoming and empowering community for all people.

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Dear Pride Center Supporter, On behalf of the Pride Center Board of Directors, the Gala Planning Committee, and our distinguished Gala CoChairs, Michael Cocca, Jr. and John Daniels, you are most cordially invited to be a part of this year’s Annual Awards Gala Celebration.

This is a special night to benefit the Pride Center of the Capital Region and celebrate the important contributions of this year’s awardees whose efforts continue to empower the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community. Every year, this event raises much-needed funds for the Pride Center’s fundamental programs and core services, including our youth and senior programs.

Please visit our Gala website https://PCGALA.givesmart.com to purchase tickets, join our Honorary Committee, become a sponsor, donate an auction item, and much more.

EVENT DETAILS Friday, November 8th, 2019 @ Franklin Plaza | No. Four 4th Street, Troy, NY 12180 Rooftop Terrace VIP cocktail hour 6-7pm | Dinner* & Awards 7pm *This event will have no assigned seating and no plated dinners

Dress: Fashionably Festive OUR 2019 AWARD RECIPIENTS Harvey Milk Award:

NY State Senator Brad Hoylman Marsha P. Johnson Award:

Company of the Year Award:

Regeneron Volunteer of the Year Award

Willow Harris

Gina Muollo Distinguished Service Award:

Cynthia Swadba Gala Ticket $125 Gala Tickets – “Book” of SIX - $675 (10% discount) Gala Tickets – “Book” of EIGHT - $850 (15% discount) Gala Tickets – “Book” of TEN - $1,000 (20% discount)

332 Hudson Ave. | Albany, NY 12210 | 518.462.6138 | www.capitalpridecenter.org commUNITY FALL 2019

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2019 Pride Center Honorary Committee Friday, November 8th, 2019 @ Franklin Plaza, No. Four 4th Street, Troy, NY 12180 Please visit https://PCGALA.givesmart.com to order your tickets

Platinum 1

Gold 1

Silver 1

HONORARY COMMITTEE PLATINUM 1 - $375 1 VIP TICKET

HONORARY COMMITTEE GOLD 1 - $275 1 VIP Ticket

HONORARY COMMITTEE SILVER 1 - $175 1 VIP Ticket

Platinum 2

Gold 2

Silver 2

HONORARY COMMITTEE PLATINUM 2 - $700

HONORARY COMMITTEE GOLD 2 - $500 2 VIP Tickets

HONORARY COMMITTEE SILVER 2 - $300 2 VIP Tickets

• VIP Reception on the 3rd floor/Rooftop Terrace with hors ďoeuvres and champagne stations, and one-hour of open bar, from 6:00 - 7:00PM • Admittance to the Awards Ceremony • Social Media mention • Recognition from the stage and event monitors

• VIP Reception on the 3rd floor/Rooftop Terrace with hors ďoeuvres and champagne stations, and one-hour of open bar, from 6:00 - 7:00PM • Admittance to the Awards Ceremony • Recognition from the stage and event monitors

2 VIP TICKETS • VIP Reception on the 3rd floor/Rooftop Terrace with hors ďoeuvres and champagne stations, and one-hour of open bar, from 6:00 - 7:00PM • Admittance to the Awards Ceremony • Multiple Social Media mentions, name included in Event Press Release • Recognition from the stage and event monitors

THIS EVENT WILL HAVE NO ASSIGNED SEATING AND NO PLATED DINNERS.

PRIDEcenter OF THE CAPITAL REGION

EMPOWERING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1970

332 Hudson Ave. | Albany, NY 12210 | 518.462.6138 | www.capitalpridecenter.org 30 |

pridecenter OF THE CAPITAL REGION

PRIDEcenter OF THE CAPITAL REGION

EMPOWERING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1970 332 Hudson Ave, Albany, NY 12210 (518) 462-6138 | www.CapitalPrideCenter.org info@CapitalPrideCenter.org

PROGRAMS & SERVICES

Your Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Community Center since 1970 BUSINESS ALLIANCE

HAPPINESS

Members gain exclusive visibility, ways to leverage customer allegiance, and access to a dedicated consumer base. Monthly Mixers provide space to network with local professionals and community.

Happiness is a support group for families of trans* youth/children that provides assistance and education in navigating the process and overcoming obstacles faced.

MEN’S PRIDE

CAPITAL PRIDE The largest LGBTQ Pride celebration in Upstate New York. A real community affair that takes place on the 2nd weekend in June.

CAPITAL REGION PRIDEABILITY This group is a collaboration between the Pride Center and the Self-Advocacy Association of NYS to provide support to people with disabilities who are LGBTQI.

CENTER ARTS & FIRST FRIDAY Showcasing the contributions of LGBTQ-identified artists through innovative programming in the local area, participation in arts events, and showings at our Romaine Brooks Gallery on the first floor of the Pride Center.

CENTER YOUTH Support, outreach, and advocacy for LGBTQA+ youth ages 18 and under. Including regional groups, a drop-in group every Friday from 3-8PM in Albany that includes a facilitator-led discussion.

CommUNITY A quarterly online publication highlighting and informing the greater Capital Region on local LGBTQ news, events, as well as the work being done by other organizations in the area. Advertising opportunities.

COUNSELING & CASE MANAGEMENT Free counseling and case management services for all LGBTQ people ages 13+.

FAMILY PRIDE LOOK (Loving Ourselves and Our Kids) engages with both parents/guardians of and LGBTQ children in a supportive environment. Friends & Families engage with loved ones of LGBTQ-identified individuals to provide a safe space for allied family members to access resources and support..

Focusing on the experiences of gay, bisexual, transgender, samegender-loving, MSMs, queer, and questioning men in the Capital Region. Connect to share support, make friends, and learn about issues affecting men’s communities.

SUNDAY SUPPER

A potluck-style community meal for the entire community, friends, and family. Music, board games, good food, good fun. Held on the last Sunday of every month.

TRAINING & EDUCATION SERVICES

Comprehensive and customizable training, presentations, and technical assistance for healthcare providers, K-12 schools, colleges, businesses, organizations, and any group seeking to enhance environments and services for LGBTQ individuals.

TRANS*-TALK

A safe space for Trans* & Gender Non-Conforming Youth ages 18 & under who identify as Trans*, Genderqueer, intersex, agender, bigender, gender non-conforming, or questioning.

TRANS* PRIDE

Promoting the wellbeing of the transgender, gender queer, gender fluid, agender, gender nonconforming, non-binary, and questioning community in a safe, empowering space.

VINTAGE PRIDE

Connecting older (55+) LGBTQ adults to each other and the broader community with social gatherings, special events, and educational opportunities. Creating new memories while celebrating and honoring the resilience and contributions of our community.

WOMEN’S PRIDE

Focusing on the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, same-gender-loving, WSWs, queer, and questioning women in the Capital Region. Connect to share support, make friends, and learn about issues affecting women’s communities.

Except where noted, all events take place at 332 Hudson Ave, Albany, NY. Garden Level is wheelchair accessible via lift.

Have an accessibility question? Contact: Andromeda Indardeo, Director of Programs at: aindardeo@CapitalPrideCenter.org or call 518-462-6138 28 |

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Letter From Our President Cynthia Bott, Ph.D., LCSW

Dear Readers, id you know the Pride Center offers free therapy and case management? Or that we have a monthly Vintage Pride meeting and potluck or a Sunday supper for those members of our community that want to enjoy community and a hot meal? Did you know you could attend a yoga class, or a meditation, or a support group? Most folx think of our annual Pride celebration when the Pride Center is mentioned but in reality we offer much more to our community throughout the remainder of the year.

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This November 8th the Pride Center will hold its annual Gala. The support we receive from this event will go towards supporting the services mentioned above. Join me in supporting the Center and honoring those individuals and organizations who have done so much for our community this past year. If you cannot attend please consider making a donation of any size in support of our services. The only Pride Center event you might ever attend is the Pride celebration in June but please remember there are others throughout the year who are depending upon the Pride Center for support and assistance.

I would like to extend a welcome to Robbie Gardner, our newest board member. If you are interested in board or committee service, please contact Martha or myself. See you at the Gala.

Thanks, Cynthia

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Thanks for making a difference in our community Bank of America recognizes Pride Center of the Capital Region. Community leaders like you are a vital resource and inspiration to us all. Thanks to you, progress is being made and our community is becoming a better place to live and work.

Visit us at bankofamerica.com/local.

Š2019 Bank of America Corporation | AR64WX5V | ENT-216-AD

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Out in the Garden Jewelweed

Judy Fetterly

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t’s been a great year for jewelweed. It’s growing everywhere – around plants, between plants, inside plants.

Because we have had so much rain – that is, until recently. September’s been dry and I have been watering.

Unlike children, plants need to go to bed wet, especially trees and shrubs and anything just planted this season, so I am watering and watering and praying for rain. I am not trying to promote jewelweed, but it’s happy.

I respond to the “weed” part of this plant’s name, but some gardening friends focus on the “jewel.” They remind me that jewelweed is a kind of impatiens and point out that its long-lasting orange flowers often have beautiful markings of red-orange spots. They say, “If we pay garden centers good money for other cultivars of impatiens, why not enjoy the freebee.” My herbalist friend tells me that Native Americans used sap from the stem of jewelweed to relieve itching and pain from poison ivy and stinging nettles. Today, she says, it is being used to treat the fungus that causes athletes foot.

Intrigued, I go on the web and learn that indeed the Latin name of jewelweed is Impatiens capensis, so-called because it was once thought to have come from the Cape area of South Africa. “Jewelweed,” writes the USDA in its Plant of the Week article, “makes a lovely addition to native plant gardens that are located in moist, partially shaded areas. Not only are the flowers aesthetically pleasing, so are the hummingbirds, bumblebees, and butterflies that are attracted to the flowers.” Well, I don’t have a native plant garden and my jewelweed does not need shade, so I am more attracted by the last line of this encomium: “Once established, a patch of jewelweed will maintain itself through annual seed production.” You betcha! That’s why I’m weeding.

It’s relatively easy to weed out jewelweed. The plant has a distinctive leaf shape, but of even more help is the distinctive green of its leaf color. When you have been gardening for a while, “green” no longer seems a particularly useful word, just as “snow” doesn’t work for Inuits. Do you mean “bluegreen” or “yellowgreen,” “dark green” or “light green,” “dense green” or “thin green,” “neon green” or “dull green”? Even in a rather dense planting of Japanese anemones, I can spot the jewelweed. Its stems are soft, translucent and come out quick and clean, roots attached, no need for a weeder. It’s a good feel job.

This summer, Sara and I went with our daughter and her family to Family Week in Provincetown. There I met a man who had thrown in the trowel on jewelweed and every other weed as well. While changing his baby’s diaper, he told me that he found he couldn’t both parent and garden and so was letting his patch go to weed and seed. “Jewelweed,” he said, “is the least of my problems.” I told him that I didn’t start serious gardening until both children left for college. “Wow,” he replied, looking at his wriggling newborn, “that’s a long time off.” “You should take my course in lower-maintenance gardening,” I offered. “It is possible to do both, but adjustments must be made. You might even have to start thinking of jewelweed as a desirable annual.” His partner arrived soon after, and I wandered off to get a coffee. Behind me I could hear him say, “Honey, have you got the pacifier? And where are our fresh diapers, this bag is out.” Men changing diapers? Men looking for pacifiers? Men giving up passions for parenting? Two thousand people at Gay Family Week? Suddenly Trump didn’t look quite so scary. Suddenly serious change seemed actually possible.

Perhaps I should rethink jewelweed. On ETSY I can actually buy 50 seeds from Lupine Gardens for just $4.25.

15 people have it in their cart right now. I catch myself in time, click out of ETSY, grab my weeder and head out to the garden. The thistles are on my radar but I may leave the jewel weed alone.

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Health Insurance Enrollment Services

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avigating the health insurance landscape can be a daunting task for the large number of uninsured LGBTQ+ people in the Capital Region. For this reason the Pride Center in partnership with Eric Garner with MVP Health Care are happy to provide free assistance applying for the health plan of their choice – MVP or otherwise - through the New York State of Health Marketplace.

Eric is a Certified Application Counsellor with MVP Health Care providing Marketplace enrollment support and services at no cost and without obligation at the Pride Center every Wednesday between 1:00pm and 5:00pm. Assistance is given on a walk-in basis on Wednesdays, and other days and times may be available for appointments if Wednesdays are inconvenient.

Eric is a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a long-time resident of the Capital Region.

His combined Marketplace experience between MVP Health Care and New York State of Health goes back to the launch of the Affordable Care Act in 2013. His background provides him with considerable experience maneuvering through the Marketplace enrollment process.

Whether you have already tried to apply through the Marketplace or you are applying for the first time, take advantage of this service at the Pride Center to obtain the most affordable coverage and to maintain your application data with the Marketplace.

For more information or to set up an appointment, please reach out to Eric at the MVP office: 518-388-2351 or at his cellphone number: 347-692-0293.

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How Can I Help?

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id you know there are many ways that you can help the Pride Center help our community? We’ve compiled a list of ways that you can get involved and be a change agent for the better.

Mentoring Opportunities- The Pride Center has a number of groups that address everything from age (youth, vintage), sex (Men’s, Women’s, Trans), Self and Group help (AA, NA) and social and networking (Business Alliance, Coffee Talk, Open Houses, Sunday Suppers) any or all of these can certainly use more members, facilitators or even donations of snacks/food/coffee, space or supplies.

Volunteering- There are a number of events throughout the year that can use a host of volunteers before, during and after. (Pride Month Events & The Gala are just two of the big ones, but there are monthly events like the Business Alliance Happy Hours, Mini-fundraisers in the community, outreach into one the many counties served by the Pride Center, just to name a few.)

Donating- Money, time, business opportunities and more. There are many services that the Pride Center provides all year long that need funding and supplies. Even sending a pizza over on a group or movie night is greatly appreciated or making your own signature dish for one of our many ‘Pot-Luck’ events like Vintage Brunch or Sunday Supper. The Center provides a safe space for people to be themselves comfortably and openly. This is worth the world to some who have nowhere else they feel accepted and safe.

Word of Mouth- Have you had an experience with The Center that helped you or someone you know? Help us get the word out on the programs The Center has, enlist your friends to join our mailing list, social media and at our events.

Supporting our supporters- Take a look at the advertisers and supporters that are on the banners of the electronic media, the ads in the Community Newsletter or throughout the park during Pride or at the Gala. These supporters provide funds that ensure The Pride Center can continue to be in the community providing the space and services that help an oftenunderserved population. If you see that they are supporting our mission, help us to support them so this symbiotic relationship can continue!

I hope you will join us in whatever way you can to support The Center, the community and to push even further for equality and protection.

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LOVE WINS!

Martha Harvey

T

ony Iadicicco, the Executive Director of the Albany Center Gallery, had an idea for Pride 2019 – create a movable interactive art piece and donate it to the Pride Center.

At three different Pride events; the kick-off block party, Black & Latino “Say it Loud, Say it Proud” festival, and the Capital Pride Festival, Tony and his team lugged around 2 giant boards, dozens of gallons of paint, and one very simple idea - collect a mural of over 1,000 handprints from those in the LGBTQ community and allies that came to the Pride events this June to show their support. The result was an amazing display of diversity, inclusion, and a rainbow of love.

“Our interactive art piece is all about awareness, community, and support. At the end of a three events, tape was removed from the board to reveal the words, “Love Wins”.

The LGBTQ community is celebrated in June but should be uplifted and given a platform throughout the rest of the year. The project wasn’t about building up our name or about building a following, we simply wanted to do something that promoted unity and awareness for the LGBTQ+ community in Albany, while reminding people that love wins, after all. “, explained Jules Kotarski, Albany Center Gallery Community Coordinator.

Now, this interactive mural has found its forever home at the Pride Center, prominently displayed on the first-floor stairwell wall leading up to the second floor.

The words “Love Wins” emblazoned on one of the four panels conveys the message perfectly.

One thousand handprints of love and pride, coming together in one spectacular installation.

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Pride Center Programs A

Andromeda Indardeo Director of Programs

ging isn’t easy by any standard, however LGBTQ seniors endure distinct obstacles. The individuals that faced and fought cultural shifts in society during Stonewall are now being forced backed into the closet out of fear of being discriminated against in senior living centers. Many LGBTQ seniors live alone, have long come out of straight marriages and have broken or lost family connections. Limited resources for these individuals leads to poor health and wellness, isolation and depression. For far too long the mistreatment of the aging community has gone on. They have slowly become a forgotten and discarded population.

The Pride Center has been working hard on addressing these issues. We understand that the aging LGBTQ community is vulnerable and susceptible to discrimination.

Our Friendly Neighbor Program pairs a Pride Center volunteer with someone in our LGBTQ aging or differently abled community to assist them with a task. These tasks can range from a checkin phone call, weekly visit, shoveling snow, grocery shopping, accompanying individuals to doctors’ appointments etc. Students interested in volunteering will be credited volunteer time for school. Together we can make a difference!

If you’d like to volunteer and join our team, please contact: Andromeda Indardeo at aindardeo@capitalpridecenter. org

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Transgender Day of Remembrance A

Stephanie Slominski CIA Board Treasurer

s we approach summers end and welcome another fall season with all that entails, including all the pumpkin spice you can stomach, I’m forced to think about something else that fall brings; Transgender Day or Remembrance. Being here in the Capital District I sometimes forget that transgender people are still being killed for no other reason that wanting to live their truth and reconcile their identity with what is inside of them.

The winter of 2019 brought a very special and long time awaited piece of legislation to New York State; the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA). I was fortunate to be on the Senate floor January 15th for the vote and also in the room when Governor Cuomo signed it into law. I cannot find words that would adequately describe how much of an honor it was to be able to witness these events and at the same time feel a certain sadness hiding behind all that festivity. Trans people are still being killed. While GENDA represents a stellar advance in trans rights we still live in a world where trans people are the target of brutality and violence every day in one part of the world or another, it also happens in the United States and here in New York State. I know that a majority of this is caused by a mentality that it’s easier to strike out at something we don’t understand rather than make room in our world for someone who might be different than us.

I look at the list of the transgender people who were killed in 2018 and I’m stuck between tears and speechlessness.

If I could everyone to do just one thing this season it would be to stop for a moment and realize that while we are all absorbed by our own lives there are others who live in daily fear for theirs. I hope you will bring that awareness to your sense of purpose and be an active voice and ally for trans people everywhere.

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Youth in Power!

Summer Leadership Camp 2019

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Jen Maley-Wheeler Director of Training & Case Management

his year’s annual Youth in Power! Summer Leadership Camp was a huge success. Over 30 LGBTQ+ youth, ages 13-18, participated in leadership and learning workshops, nature activities, and shared their skills and talents with others. With the help of several Pride Center volunteers, the camp provided a safe and friendly environment for all.

Spanning three days, August 23rd through the 25th, starting each day VERY early in the morning, excited youth would pack the Pride Center awaiting the CDTA bus to take them to Lawson Lake for a day of fun and excitement. Each day various leadership and learning workshops were offered thanks to community volunteers, including a workshop on farming and cooking, yoga, meditation, and expressive writing. Campers also enjoyed time to get to know each other, share personal stories, and offer peer-to-peer support.

As each day came to a close, the campers would return to the Pride Center and reflect on the day’s experiences and opportunities to meet, engage, and befriend other LGBTQ+ youth.

The traditional talent show, which always takes place in the afternoon of the final day of camp, was a truly heartwarming experience. With three campers as MCs, the talent show showcased the campers’ talents, providing entertainment and laughter for all.

As camp came to a close, campers shared their love and appreciation for the Youth in Power! Summer Leadership Camp and for each other. The weekend of camp was a genuine demonstration of camaraderie, inclusion, and friendship.

The Pride Center staff and volunteers look forward to Youth in Power! Summer Leadership Camp 2020!

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More Camp 2019 pics!

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Pride Center’s Center Support Counseling Services

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Jen Maley-Wheeler Director of Training & Case Management

eeking counseling services is not an easy task, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals. As a result of historical traumatic experience of homophobic, transphobic, and heteronormative/ cisnormative perspectives of mental health providers, undergoing the process of locating an LGBTQ+-affirming therapist who is knowledgeable, educated, and aware of the unique needs and challenges of the LGBTQ+ community can be a frightening and overwhelming experience.

For those living in a large city with an abundance of available resources, locating an LGBTQ+affirming therapist may be easier than for those living in rural and small towns. However, living in a large city does not guarantee you access to an LGBTQ+-affirming therapist. Other factors, such as health insurance coverage, co-pays, and/or paying out of pocket for a sliding scale fee, present as a challenge to many in receiving quality LGBTQ+-affirming care.

Understanding the need for affirming counseling services, the Pride Center is extremely excited to be able to now offer these critical services at NO COST. The Center Support Counseling Services as well as Case Management services are FREE and available to LGBTQ+ individuals, allies, friends, and family ages 13 and over. In an effort to address the ongoing challenge of the limited access to LGBTQ+-affirming therapy services, providing FREE counseling services makes it possible for everyone to receive the care they deserve.

We are looking for ways to expand our reach so that those who are unable to come to the Pride Center for counseling can still utilize these services. Online secure video-chat is one option we are looking into. We are also exploring the feasibility of setting up satellite counseling centers in other upstate counties. With generous donations from our supporters like you, we can expand our reach and continue to meet the mental health needs of our community members.

The Pride Center’s Center Support Counseling Services is overseen by Jen Maley-Wheeler, LMSW with clinical supervision of Janet Acker, PhD. Members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies, friends, and family experience a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment at the Pride Center to discuss such challenges as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, gender identity and expression questions, couples’ difficulties, and much more.

Interested in learning more about the Center Support Counseling Services? Please contact Jen Maley-Wheeler at 518-462.6138 ext. 13 or jmaleywheeler@capitalpridecenter.org.

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Business Alliance

DIVERSIFY YOUR BUSINESS, STRENGTHEN YOUR BRAND

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ome to the oldest continuously operating LGBTQ community center in the country, the Capital Region has over 35,000 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ) people living and working in our region. With higher than average education rates and steadier income levels in Tech Valley, the Capital Region often is looked to as a test market by national companies. By joining the Pride Center Business Alliance, your business can gain exclusive visibility and access to a dedicated consumer base as well as expand your internal diversity efforts. If you have any questions regarding the Business Alliance or our upcoming networking events, please don’t hesitate to give our Executive Director, Martha Harvey, a call at (518) 462-6138 x11, or by email. We hope that you will take this opportunity to join the Pride Center Business Alliance.

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As We Age Martha Harvey, Executive Director

As we age, quality of life concerns start to become something we think about more often. I know that for me personally, my wife and I talk about this more and more, especially as we get closer to retirement age.

Below are links to several relevant and informative topics.

• How to Purchase a Home in Retirement: https://www.angieslist.com/articles/how-purchase-home-retirement.htm “Buying a home is not easy at any age or stage in life, including retirement. Even if you’ve been through the process before, the stress and uncertainty of finding the right home, qualifying for a mortgage, and making the move can easily overwhelm any prospective homeowner. However, knowing the challenges you will face — and their possible solutions — will inevitably help you navigate the process.”

• The Best Companion Pets for Seniors: https://moneywise.com/a/the-best-companion-pets-for-seniors “An animal can bring joy to an older person. Here’s a guide to finding an affordable, compatible pet.”

• Digital and Trend-Forward Games for Seniors: https://www.aginginplace.org/digital-and-trend-forward-games-forseniors/ “Keeping your mind active via games and play is important for people at all stages of life, but it is particularly important for seniors. As you age, you become more prone to issues that affect your physical health and your emotional wellbeing, so it’s important for seniors to be proactive in finding activities that inject vitality and joy into their lives while also improving their brain function.”

• Mortgage Application Tips: https://www.mortgagecalculator.org/helpful-advice/ups-and-downs-with-mortgages.php “Thinking of buying a new home? Having trouble with all of the mortgage terminology? As a borrower, you may be left with many questions. In order to make an educated decision about something as important as a mortgage, it’s easier to first get comfortable with the process. Read on for more helpful information from mortgage rates to buying versus renting and everything else in between.”

• 5 Reasons Seniors Should Volunteer Their Time: https://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/9-26-14-reasons-seniorsvolunteer/ “Volunteerism isn’t just beneficial for those being helped — research shows that volunteering confers mental and physical health benefits for those doing the helping. It also fosters positive social and family relationships and contributes to a positive image of seniors as a healthy and vital part of our society.”

• A Senior’s Guide to Computer Basics: https://www.nursinghomelawcenter.org/news/nursing-home-abuse/seniorsguide-computer-basics/ “Whether a person is a senior who is contemplating the need to learn about computers or an individual who wants to teach an elder member of the family how to use one, it’s helpful to first understand how computers are useful. Frequent use of computers can help to improve a person’s mental agility, build confidence, and create a sense of independence. Computers can make life more convenient by giving the elderly a way to read the latest news, research health issues, pay bills online, and manage their finances.”

• Free & Cheap College Classes for Senior Citizens (By State & University): https://www.moneycrashers.com/ college-classes-seniors/ “Many colleges across the country offer cheap or even free classes for senior citizens. In most cases, older students only get to “audit” these classes – that is, attend the lectures without earning credit toward a degree. However, even without the credit, it’s still a great opportunity to learn about a subject that interests you at no cost to yourself. And at some schools, it’s even possible to earn a college degree for free, one class at a time.”

• Free Senior Citizen Education (How to Go to School for Free): http://echeck.org/free-senior-citizen-educationhow-to-go-to-school-for-free/ “A great resource state by state resource that displays the colleges offering programs for senior citizens can be found at seniorresource.com. Keep in mind, not all the courses listed on this resource will offer free tuition, however it is still a good starting point to begin your search. Here are more steps you can take to find free tuition in your area.”

Do you have tips and information that you’d like to share with others? Send them to Martha Harvey at mharvey@ capitalpridecenter.org and we’ll be sure to publish them in the next CommUNITY Newsletter.

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Legal Ease

By Victoria Esposito, Pride Center Board Director with special guest co-author Lettie Dickerson

**This column presents the authors’ personal opinions and does not constitute legal advice.**

W

hen is a school not an educational institution? Sounds like a trick question, right?

But back in 2012 the Court of Appeals, New York’s highest court, held that the definition of an “educational corporation or association” in the Human Rights Law did not apply to public schools. In the case of North Syracuse Cent.

School Dist. v. New York State Div. Of Human Rights , the court hewed to the law’s narrow definition of an “educational institution” as one which held itself out as non-sectarian and tax-exempt. From that point on, the protections of the Human Rights Law applied only to non-religious private schools, and the Division of Human Rights (DHR) had no authority to investigate complaints made in public schools.

In real terms, this meant that from 2012-2019 the DHR was unable to investigate harassment of or discrimination against public school students or applicants due to their race, color, religion, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, sex, age or marital status .

The Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) filled in some of the gaps between 2012 and 2019. However, this law relies on school administrators to properly investigate and address instances of harassment and bullying in their own schools. If the administrators fail to take these steps, if the harassment continues, or if the administrators simply refuse to admit that the harassment exists in their school, there is no way for the affected students to enforce this law. As you can imagine, this was of quite limited utility for students being harassed or bullied at school.

Finally, on July 25, 2019 Governor Cuomo signed new legislation which specifically provides that public schools, including public colleges, are subject to the Human Rights Law. What does this mean to students who are targeted because of protected characteristics?

It means that a student who is bullied or harassed at a public school because of one of these protected characteristics may file a complaint with the Division of Human Rights within one year of the event taking place. (If the student is under 18, then his or her parents must file the complaint.) The complaint is fairly simple and may be downloaded from https:// dhr.ny.gov/complaint , which also has a detailed explanation of the procedure. Please note that the complaint must be printed and signed before a notary and that the student or parent may also include any supporting documents such as school reports or documents.

After that happens, DHR will notify the school that the complaint has been made and will ask the school for its response.

The student or parent who has complained will get to see the response and will have the opportunity to file a rebuttal. Once all that has happened, DHR will determine whether there is probable cause to believe that discrimination occurred; if it finds that there is probable cause, the case may move forward to a hearing or DHR may suggest a settlement which both parties may agree to. (If DHR does not find probable cause, then the complaint will be dismissed.) While the parties may be represented by lawyers, this process is designed to be simple enough that an unrepresented person can go through it. It is also a relatively quick process in our experience, generally taking months rather than the years which a lawsuit will last.

DHR has put out a short fact sheet explaining the process and describing some of the situations which public school students may encounter; it is available at https://dhr.ny.gov/ sites/default/files/pdf/nysdhr-education-discrimination.pdf .

(You’ll note that this quite specifically includes harassment of transgender students.)

In a perfect world, of course, there would be no need for this law to begin with. And no process, including this one, is perfect or foolproof. However, this legislative fix to a legislatively created problem makes it at least a little bit easier for students and their parents to stop discrimination and harassment in school and allow all students—regardless of gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic—the opportunity for fair and appropriate treatment in school.

Lettie Dickerson is the LGBTQ rights attorney at the Empire Justice Center in Albany, NY. The LGBTQ rights project specifically addresses discrimination faced by low-income LGBTQ New Yorkers by representing clients directly, undertaking impact litigation, providing trainings and producing know-your-rights guides. He can be reached via email: LDickerson@empirejustice.org, or phone: 518-935-2857.

1 19 N.Y. 3D 281 (2012) 2 Id. at 494-495.

3 New York Executive Law §296 (4). The statutory language as available on Westlaw has not been updated to reflect GENDA’s protections, but the intent was quite clearly to apply this protection to students facing harassment or discrimination due to their gender expression or identity. See, e.g., https://dhr.ny.gov/genda-signed 4 This is the same general process used to file complaints about discrimination in other areas, such as housing or public accommodations.

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Why Voting Matters for Young People

Leila Eliot, Volunteer

H

ave you ever had a conversation with someone and realized you agreed on absolutely nothing? As our society becomes more and more polarized it feels like that is happening more and more and it can get overwhelming. Yet, it’s super important that we all stay tuned in, not getting desensitized to the world around us, and there are really important personal ways we can all make a difference. These impacts may be small or local, but they have ways that will reverberate out into the rest of society. One of the most important ways we can all be active in our society is by voting. Though it often feels like parties have the last say voting matters and when we all turn out to the poles that’s when voices are really heard.

All across NY right now incumbents are being challenged by liberals who claim they haven’t done enough for our state. Now we have the change to use our vote to hold our politicians accountable. Even if you can’t vote right now, you can talk to the people around you, get involved in voter registration at your school or town in general. These grassroots campaigns need volunteers to make phone calls or knock on doors. Find a candidate near you, no matter how small the race and help out. GENDA, putting language in state legislation about transgender discrimination, was only passed this year, the same year a group of left leaning Democrats took out incumbents in the Senate. These grassroots campaigns resulted in real legislation, that will help people throughout New York State and it is all because people chose to go out and knock on doors, bring their families to the poles. It is because districts demanded more from their leaders.

In the end voting isn’t just about casting a ballot but staying informed and engaged in our society, making sure you know what our government is doing and help to inform those around you. The only way things get done is when people like us ask and most often fight for them.

As our society gets more polarized we are losing faces to politics, fights for social justice become about issues not the people behind them. The LGBTQIA+ community is often seen as a statistic, as a moral issue, instead of the people trying to live their lives like everyone else. Our visibility, though becoming more prominent, requires some work on our part. So take the time to talk to someone, have a conversation about your differences, they don’t have to be drastic. Find ways to keep discourse alive, who knows, maybe you’ll find some common ground.

If you’re interested in getting involved in voter registration two places you can go to find out more are the League of Women Voter’s website or reach out to GenerationVote at UAlbany. https://www.lwv.org/generationvotealb@gmail.com

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pridecenter OF THE CAPITAL REGION

Letter from Our Executive Director Martha Harvey

H

ello friends!

Have you secured your tickets for the Pride Center Gala? We want to see you all there this year. We are anticipating a healthy turn-out, so purchase yours today by visiting PCGala.GiveSmart.com.

This year’s Gala will be on Friday, November 8, from 6pm – 9pm, at the Franklin Plaza, No. Four 4th St. in Troy. We will be honoring the following individuals/organization with much-deserved recognition •NY State Senator Brad Hoylman will be receiving the Harvey Milk Award in recognition of his outstanding efforts in FINALLY getting GENDA (Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act) passed and the Conversion Therapy Ban bill passed in the State Senate. https://www.nysenate.gov/ newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-genda-bans-conversion-therapy •Willow Harris will be receiving the Marsha P. Johnson Award in recognition for all of their ongoing work as the volunteer Facilitator for the TGNC Pride Group that meets at the Pride Center on the 1st & 3rd Tuesdays from 6-8pm •Gina Muollo will be receiving the Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of being one of the Pride Center’s most amazing volunteers!

•Cynthia Swadba will be receiving the Distinguished Service Award in recognition of her work with Saratoga Pride – a support resource for our LGBTQ community in Saratoga County.

•Regeneron will be receiving the Company of the Year Award in recognition of their outstanding support for their LGBTQ employees and their ongoing community partnership with the Pride Center This Fete Extraordinaire promises to be something wonderfully different from years past. All event Sponsors, Awardees, Honorary Committee Members and VIP guests will be treated to a very special cocktail reception on the rooftop terrace featuring one hour of open bar, champagne stations, and delicious hors d’oeuvres from 6-7pm. DJ JD will be front and center keeping the party going all night long. Multiple food stations with a variety of fine cuisine will replace plated/served dinners. A variety of seating options will replace assigned seating.

A few more specifics that can enhance your Gala experience: •For those who wish to enjoy a cocktail or three but don’t want to drive can use LYFT! Use the codeword: ALBANYPRIDEGALA to receive 20% off all rides to and from the Gala.

•We’ve also secured discounted rates at the Best Western which is directly across the street from the venue. Just mention that you are there for the Pride Center Gala and you will receive discounted rates.

See you there!

Martha

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Greater than groceries.

Hannaford is proud to partner with the Pride Center of the Capital Region through the sponsorship of programs that strengthen our communities.

Hannaford is proud to have earned a 100 percent score on the 2019 Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index.

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Join the Hannaford team.

Check out our career opportunities at Hannaford.com.

332 Hudson Avenue Albany, NY 12210

BUILDING pride

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