Options Magazine - September 2018

options September 2018

LGBTQ CANDIDATES

IN SEPT. 12 PRIMARY

Back to School with YPI Strengthen Your Relationships www.optionsri.org Rhode Island’s LGBTQ Community Magazine Since 1982

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IN THIS ISSUE: 12 24 16 17

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Photo courtesy of Netflix

5 From the Editor 6 From the Board President 6 Advertisers 8 Calendar 10 News Briefs 12 September Primaries Impact LGBTQ Community 14 LGBTQ Candidates in Newport City Council Race 16 Youth Pride Eases Students into the New School Year 17 Anytime Anyplace: APRI’s New Mobile Testing Van 18 Ask Yael and Paula 19 TGI Network 20 Out on the Town 22 ACOS: Finding Solace with Your Peers 24 Review: Queer Eye 26 Blue Cross and Blue Shield: Small Steps 27 Progress Report from SAGE-RI 28 Resources 35 Felicitations 35 Transosaurus Rex

Home deliver y is free! Subscribe at www.optionsri.org, email subscriptions@optionsri.org, or write to us at our PO Box. Š OPTIONS 2018. Options is published bimonthly. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the volunteers or staff. Listings are provided as a resource and do not imply endorsement. Submissions to Options must include a phone number or email address. Names may be withheld on request. Submissions, ads, calendar, or resource llistings for the October/November 2018 issue must be delivered by September 21.

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Make a difference in someone’s life.

Volunteer with us today Contact Us 401-831-5522 torresramosdo@familyserviceri.org

A I D S P R OJ E C T R I

H E L LO _ A P R I

A I D S P R OJ E C T R I

From the Editor-in-Chief

options

Rhode Island’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community news source since 1982.

Dear Reader, We at Options always welcome feedback from readers, whether it’s in the form of a letter to the editor, Facebook comment, or submission through our website. (It’s been a year or two since someone sent a handwritten letter; we welcome those, too.) We’ve embraced the idea that this magazine’s purpose is to be a place for discussion, a special platform in which our unique community members can raise their voices… even when you need to tell us off.

In reaction to my August editor note, reader Cheryl Duarte wrote in to say: “You stated that the Black Man on the cover of Options was a cover boy. I suggest that you send out an apology to your readers for that insult. You do not call a grown man a boy! A grown white man is not called a boy.Why do people keep calling Black Men boys?”

Ouch. I felt awful reading that, and I do apologize to readers. It was an offense I hadn’t comprehended when I mistakenly chose those words. I’d meant to express cover boy in relation to cover girl – fashion industry standard terms. Nevertheless, it indicates an insensitivity to language and lack of perspective that’s worth acknowledging, and I’m sorry. At first I wished I’d referred to Guillaume as a cover guy, but then surmised that that term still reinforced cover girl, which infantilizes women.

Cheryl’s message certainly had me reflecting. I revisited quandaries the Options team circuitously confronts: What constitutes offensive language? (We allowed one F-bomb in this issue.) Is it possible to be too sensitive to the detriment of expression?

Is some language ok for certain groups to use, and if so, should we be indicating the groups with which our writers identify?

A prevalent theme among Options stories is to embrace where people with fundamental differences intersect. In this issue, relationship therapists Yael Bat-Shimon and Paula Smith – an interracial couple who have “been each other’s teachers” when it comes to talking about race, culture, religion, and differences in general – are eager to hear from readers who want to improve their relationships – and not exclusively romantic relationships (p. 18). Options arts reviewer Kwana Adams shares her perspective as a woman of color on a police encounter depicted on the show Queer Eye (p. 24). Perhaps the most important place we should expect diversity in perspective is among our elected officials, and the possibilities for change have never been greater than in this upcoming election cycle.We have two stories about various local races including LGBTQ trailblazing candidates (p. 12 and p. 14).

Options can successfully steward a conversation toward realizing full equality for our diverse community only by welcoming various perspectives to help us empathize and connect with those different from us. So please keep your comments, stories, and questions coming.To quote an Ani DiFranco lyric: I know there is strength in the differences between us, and I know there is comfort where we overlap.

In solidarity,

Jen Stevens

September 2018, Volume XXXVII, Issue 4

Editor-in-Chief Jen Stevens jen@optionsri.org Resources Editor Myra Shays resources@optionsri.org Copy Editors Rex LeBeau, Maria Phillips, Myra Shays Graphic Design Theresa “Reese” Barzyk www.tibcreativestudio.com Web Master Victoria Graceffa Contributors Felicia Nimue Ackerman, Kwana Adams, Yael Bat-Shimon, Chris Cedroni, Benji Chaplin, Jason Furlan, Cathy Gorman, Ethan Huckel, Rex LeBeau, Maria Phillips, TC Rogers, Elana Rosenberg, Myra Shays, Paula Smith, Jen Stevens, Lauren Vella, Mikel Wadewitz Photographers Jen Bonin, Jack-Hartwein Sanchez Advertising Manager Kim Stowell advertising@optionsri.org

Contact Us info@optionsri.org PO Box 6406 Providence, RI 02940 401-217-3939 www.optionsri.org Cover: Justice Gaines, photo by Kleo Sincere

We want to hear from you. Send letters to editor@optionsri.org.

HELP WANTED: Two old lesbians with large gardens and bad knees seek a knowledgeable gardener looking

for continuous seasonal yard work for a few hours a week. Weeding, general maintenance, and other fun tasks. Will pay. Email Mev Miller: mev@litwomen.org.

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BOARD Executive Committee Dr. TC Rogers,

Board President

Brendan Chipley Roane,

Board Vice President

Dr. Dawn Letourneau,

Recording Secretary

Dr. Mike Marrapodi, Treasurer Directors Melissa Da Silva, LICSW Ashley Delgado Daniel Kellum, Esq. Nathan McNamara Dr. Eileen Medeiros Arthur Snow

FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT Dear Readers,

I hope that you have had a fabulous summer. I’ve enjoyed talking to many community members during our last two release parties at The Stable, which are always a wonderful opportunity to learn how our community wants Options to grow as an organization and what elements should stay the same. It is coming upon one year since I became board president, and in this past year the board has consistently worked to incorporate diverse perspectives and make Options sustainable. We still have more work to do in both regards.

In order to focus our efforts on building up our online news platform, and answer the call for a thorough local LGBTQ online platform that shares community news and happenings more regularly, Options will be printing bimonthly for the foreseeable future. Thus, following this issue, October/ November and December/January issues will be printed. The opportunity for our advertisers will increase as they can choose to be in print and/or on our website.

In order for Options to become the organization that our community needs, we must obtain funds beyond advertising.We believe the move toward having a more robust online presence will help us earn grants to help Options with this transition. We are also discussing the possibility of a small cost for those who want to continue to have the print copy delivered to their homes or businesses to cover printing and postage fees. Additionally, we are considering having Options be a 501(c)(4), instead of a 501(c)(3).

The main financial benefits of this shift would be more opportunities for grants and tax-exempt status, but we would have more limitations in political activities.

What Options needs most to ensure it thrives is an executive director. As a reminder, Options has only two very part-time paid positions: editor-in-chief and advertising manager. That means that the board and additional volunteers complete the thousand of tasks needed to run the organization. Even though the board is extremely dedicated, this current business model must be adapted to be financially sustainable and needs to include more individual contributions. So, for those of you able to dedicate your money to a cause that helps our LGBTQ community, Options needs your help.

In case anyone is interpreting this as a note telling readers that Options is going to fold – that is absolutely NOT the case. The purpose of this note is to provide full transparency about what we are doing to make Options sustainable for the long term. Have no doubt; we will succeed in our goals.

So, back to the fun! Our annual Gay 5k is September 23 and we’d love for you to sign up (at runthegay5k.com) to run or walk and show your support for our community. We are still accepting sponsors and volunteers. For those who attended last year’s Gay 5k, you know how much fun it is, including celebrating at the after-party.

I welcome your questions and feedback.

Warm Regards, Dr. TC Rogers Board President

ADVERTISER

LIST Show that your organization or business supports the local LGBTQ+ community!

Contact advertise@optionsri.org today.

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Options | September 2018

2...... Blue Cross Blue Shield of RI

17..... Meeting Street: The Grace School

4...... AIDS Project RI

19..... Friends of Toto, Dog Care

7....... Rebecca Kislak for State Representative

19..... JDHS Photos

7....... Mott & Chace/Sotheby's Realtors

23.... PPAC: Miss Saigon, Sept. 21-30

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27.... The Bridge at Cherry Hill Assisted Living

14..... Neighborhood Health Plan

34 ... East Coast Mental Wellness

15..... The Stable: Showtunes Mondays

34.... Niko Stamatakos, Massage Therapist

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36.... Options Magazine Gay 5k, Sept. 23

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3:08 PM

CALENDAR: September

SEPTEMBER 12 Primary Elections

SEPTEMBER 15 Womxn’s Night

SEPTEMBER 16 Brainstorming for Newport Pride 2019

Sun. 2 Options Magazine Release Party, 3-5pm. The Stable, 125 Washington Street, Providence.

Volunteers needed for distribution.

Mon. 3, 10, 17 & 24 Free Play Arcade GAYME night, 7pm1am. Colosseum, 180 Pine Street, Providence. Over 115 vintage arcade games, pinball, skee ball, and drag show. All games set to free play. 18+. $4 cover to benefit RI Pride. For more info, freeplayri.com.

Sun. 9 Herbs for Transgender Health & Support, 10am-12:30pm.

Farmacy Herbs, 28 Cemetery Street, Providence. Dr. M. Fiebelman will cover common imbalances among those in the transgender community and how to support transgender clients and community members with herbs and nutrition.

Sun. 9 RI Prime Timers, 4:307pm. Social, dinner, and networking group for older gay and bi men on second Sundays. For more info, www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010.

Wed. 12 State of RI Primary Election, 7am-8pm. To find your polling location or more info, elections.state.ri.us/elections.

SEPTEMBER 20 Coctails and Conversations

SEPTEMBER 23 Options Gay 5K 8

Thu. 13 Sweet Little Variety Show, 8pm. Mirabar, 15 Elbow Street, Providence.

A queer-produced potpourri of entertainment performed monthly on second Thursdays.

Featuring Kristi Martel. $7 to pay the artists. For info, facebook. com/sweetlittlevarietyshow and sweetlittlevarietyshow.com.

Sat. 15 Womxn's Night, 7:30pm. Irish Rose, 50 Exchange Terrace, Providence. A cabaret and club night for womxn featuring

Options | September 2018

queer performance (drag kings, jazz, and burlesque) hosted by LuLu Locks. Photo booth, drink specials, food menu, LGBTQIA pop-up shop. Partners, friends, and allies welcome. 21+. Cabaret 7:308:30pm followed by DJ Ephraim Adamz. $25 includes cabaret, $10 beginning at 8:30pm. Tickets: Eventbrite.com.

Sun. 16 Brainstorming session for next year’s Newport Pride Weekend, 5:30pm. Parish Hall of Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham Street, Newport.

Free pizza. For more info, email interweave@channingchurch.org.

Wed. 19 Queer Book Club, 7-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays at Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence.

Reading: Whipping Girl by Julia Serano.

Discount on books purchased at Books on the Square. For more info, email queerbookclub@gmail. com.

Thu. 20 Drag Bingo: Heavy Metal, 6-9pm. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Avenue, Cranston.

Hosted by Haley Star and LaDiva Jonz. $20 gets you in all games with over $2,000 in cash and prizes awarded monthly. 18+. No alcohol. Theme dress suggested.

All funds raised benefit AIDS Care Ocean State and AIDS Project RI. For reservations, email bingo@ aidscareoceanstate.org with name, number of people, and phone number.

Thu. 20 Cocktails and Conversations: Intersectional Feminism, 6-8pm. Southside Cultural Center, 393 Broad Street, Providence. Discuss how race, class, ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation overlap and impact the way women experience discrimination. Held by the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island

with panelists Ditra Edwards, founder and director of Sista Fire; Justice Gaines, poet and trans activist; Lorén Spears, executive director of the Tomaquag Museum. URI professor Dr. Jessie Frazier moderates. Refreshments served. Tickets $15, $20 after Sept. 9 (brownpapertickets.com/ event/3397822). For more info or scholarships, contact Ellie Brown: ebrown@wfri.org or 262-5657.

Fri. 21 SAGE LGBT Café, noon2pm. Church of the Transfiguration, 1665 Broad Street, Cranston. A delicious, low-cost lunch in a gayfriendly setting on third Fridays sponsored by Meals on Wheels, the Department of Elderly Affairs, and SAGE-RI. $3 donation suggested for LGBT people 60+ and people with disabilities; $6 donation suggested for all others.

Reservations required. Call Pauline at 351-6700.

Sun. 23 Options Magazine Gay 5k, 9am registration/10am run or walk. Warwick City Park. Proceeds benefit Options Magazine. After party TBA. Register at runthegay5k. com.

Sun. 23 Youth Pride Inc. Annual Rainbow Party, 1:30-3:30pm. The Dunes Club, 137 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett. Open bar, hors d'oeuvres, and complimentary valet parking. Suggested $250 donation. For reservations, http:// bit.ly/YPI_Rainbow_Party_2018.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT TO calendar@optionsri.org

Fri. 28 & Sat. 29 New England Open: Ballroom Dance Championships, noon Fri./10am Sat. RI Convention Center, Providence. Workshops, social ballroom dancing, games, and tutorials. Also hosting the Regional Same-Sex Ballroom Dance Championship, sanctioned by North America Same-Sex Partner Dance Association. Tix $25-$35 at eventbrite.com/e/new-englandopen-tickets.

Sat. 29 Becky Chace Band and Mark Cutler Band, 8pm. Narrows Center for the Arts, 16 Anawan Street, Fall River, MA. Tix $22 at narrowscenter.org/$25 at the door.

October Mon. 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Free Play Arcade GAYME night, 7pm1am. Colosseum, 180 Pine Street, Providence. Over 115 vintage arcade games, pinball, skee ball, and drag show. All games set to free play. 18+. $4 cover to benefit RI Pride. For more info, freeplayri. com.

Fri. 5 Gen Silent, screening and workshop. 8:15am-noon. Rhode Island Shriners, One Rhodes Place, Cranston. Presented by the NASW RI Aging Committee and SAGE-RI. Continuing Education Credits available. Register at www. rinasw.info.

Sun. 7 Drag Brunch, 12pm.

Massimo Restaurant, 134 Atwells Avenue, Providence.

With Jacqueline DiMera, LaDiva Jonz and Vi'let. Reservations encouraged at 273-0650.

Sun. 7 Options Magazine Release Party, 3-5pm. The Stable, 125 Washington Street, Providence.

Volunteers needed for distribution.

Thu. 11 National Coming Out Day. Be out and proud!

number of people, and phone number.

Thu. 11 Sweet LittleVariety Show, 8pm. Mirabar, 15 Elbow Street, Providence. A queer-produced potpourri of entertainment performed monthly on second Thursdays. Featuring live music, dance, comedy, and more. $7 to pay the artists. For info, facebook. com/sweetlittlevarietyshow and sweetlittlevarietyshow.com.

Fri. 19 SAGE LGBT CafĂŠ, noon2pm. Church of the Transfiguration, 1665 Broad Street, Cranston. A delicious, low-cost lunch in a gayfriendly setting on third Fridays sponsored by Meals on Wheels, the Department of Elderly Affairs, and SAGE-RI. $3 donation suggested for LGBT people 60+ and people with disabilities; $6 donation suggested for all others.

Reservations required. Call Pauline at 351-6700.

Sun. 14 RI Prime Timers, 4:307pm. Social, dinner, and networking group for older gay and bi men on second Sundays. For more info, www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010.

Sun. 14 RI Pride Honors, 6pm.

Marriott Downtown, 1 Orms Street, Providence. Honoring Pyramid of Pride recipient Chris Harris, Spirit of Pride recipient George Evans Marley, and volunteer awards. Cocktail hour with performances starting at 7pm. Tix $20 at prideri.org.

Wed. 17 Queer Book Club, 7-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays at Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence. Reading: The Gay Revolution: Story of Struggle.

by Lillia Faderman Discount on books purchased at Books on the Square. For more info, email queerbookclub@gmail.com.

Thu. 18 Drag Bingo: The Rocky Horror Drag Bingo, 6-9pm. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Avenue, Cranston. Hosted by Haley Star and LaDiva Jonz. $20 gets you in all games with over $2,000 in cash and prizes awarded monthly. $100 cash prize for the best costume. 18+. No alcohol.

All funds raised benefit AIDS Care Ocean State and AIDS Project RI. For reservations, email bingo@ aidscareoceanstate.org with name,

Sun. 21 Interweave potluck dinner with panel discussion, 5:30pm/discussion at 7pm. Parish Hall behind Channing Memorial Church, 135 Pelham Street, Newport. All are welcome. Free.

Bring a dish to share if you would like to join the potluck. For more info, contact Rex at 595-9068 or interweave@channingchurch.org.

SEPTEMBER 28 & 29 Ballroom Dancing Competition

OCTOBER 5 Gen Silent

OCTOBER 11 National Coming Out Day

Regularly Scheduled Support Groups: ACOS (HIV/AIDS): youth, Tue. 4pm/gay males, Wed. 1:30pm LGBT Alcoholics Anonymous: Tue. 7pm PFLAG (parents, friends, allies):

OCTOBER 14 RI Pride Honors

1st & 3rd Wed. 6:45pm TGI Network (trans,par tner, and non-binary groups): 1st & 3rd Tue. 7pm/Sat. 1pm

TransFamily New England: 2nd Mon. 6:30pm YPI (youth): Way Out, Thu. 4pm/Gender Spectrum, Tue. 4pm/youth 13 and under : Thu. 5pm See Resources on page 28 for complete information

OCTOBER 18 Drag Bingo

OCTOBER 19 SAGE LGBT CafĂŠ www.optionsri.org

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NEWS BRIEFS:

by Maria Phillips and Myra Shays

comes national attention and fund-raising money, the hurdle of running against an incumbent still remains. Vermont has not voted out an incumbent since 1962. Yet supporters are hopeful. Annise Parker, the chief executive of the LGBTQ Victory Fund, stated “Vermont voters chose Christine not because of her gender identity, but because she is an open and authentic candidate with a long history of service to the state and who speaks to the issues most important to voters.”

RI Celebrates 5 Years of Marriage Equality

The fifth anniversary of Rhode Island marriage equality was observed by The Providence Journal on July 22, with an extensive article featuring two gay couples and relating their journeys. The story also described the marriage equality campaign that resulted in the revised law, and set out obstacles to LGBTQ equality that still exist, such as homelessness of LGBTQ youth, and violence against trans people.

VT Dems Nominate Transwoman for Governor

Christine Hallquist has been successful in her bid to garner the Democratic nomination to run for governor against Republican Phil Scott in November.This is truly remarkable given the fact that more women and LGBTQ candidates are running for office this year. Although Hallquist’s nomination is an historic accomplishment, and with that

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Options | September 2018

Supporters Unite for Gay Florida Youth’s Education

“Rainbow Wave” in Upcoming Elections

The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest organization working for LGBTQ equal rights, has added 50 people to its staff of 35 working to train hundreds of local organizers to build support for proequality candidates in several key states, including Michigan, Nevada, and Ohio. The HRC's effect was felt in North Carolina in 2016 when Governor Pat McCrory became the only incumbent governor ever to lose re-election in that state. Meanwhile, the New York Times reports a "Rainbow Wave" – more LGBTQ candidates than ever running for office across the country.

A Native American lesbian is running for Congress in Kansas; a transwoman is on the ballot for governor of Vermont; a gay congressman from Colorado is running for governor; and a gay Ohio dad is running for Congress. The conservative bent of the Trump administration is cited as an important reason for many of these races.

A gay Florida youth, Seth Owen, finished high school with an A-plus average despite his parents' forcing him to leave home because he wouldn't undergo "ex-gay" counseling at an anti-gay church. They also refused to pay any of his $20,000 college tuition. After hearing of his plight, Georgetown University adjusted his aid package so that he will incur no cost. A GoFundMe page, which Owen’s biology teacher set up for him, has raised over $128,000. Since Owen is receiving the adjusted aid package, the funds raised will be used to establish scholarships for other gay students in need.

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Trans Athletes to Compete in 2019 CrossFit Games

Greg Glassman, founder of CrossFit, has changed his company’s policy by allowing transgender athletes to compete in the 2019 CrossFit Games based on their gender identity.The company faced a lawsuit challenging their policy of allowing athletes to compete based on their birth gender. However, Glassman states that “CrossFit believes in the potential, capacity, and dignity of every athlete. We are proud of our LGBT community, including our transgender athletes, and we want you here with us.”

Pakistan Making Strides for Transpeople

Transgender rights in Pakistan are being fought for with varying degrees of success. Five transgender candidates, including one who had survived an acid attack because of her gender identity, bravely ran for parliamentary seats in the July election. Although none of them were elected, they were encouraged by the first-time appointment of transgender poll observers by the Election Commission. While Pakistan is deeply conservative and homosexuality is illegal, the country has approved laws giving transpeople better rights than in many other nations, including issuing national ID cards and passports with a transgender category last year. This spring a TV station hired its first trans news anchor; a trans actress made her movie debut; and legislation was passed banning discrimination against trans people.

AT T O R N EYS - AT- L AW Cynthia M. Gifford

Cherrie R. Perkins

wAdoption / Visitation Issuesw wWills & Probatew

YANKEE SURPRISE

The New York Yankees have announced plans to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots next season with a series of events. This surprised many, because it is the only major team that has never observed Pride month. Major League Baseball even had a float in the NY Pride Parade this year, and arenas have held LGBT welcoming nights. The Yanks have been involved with LGBT causes behind the scenes to promote diversity, reports the NY Times, but have refrained until now from holding a Pride event at Yankee Stadium.

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by Lauren Vella

SEPTEMBER 12

Primaries Impact LGBTQ Community On Wednesday, September 12, Rhode Islanders will go to the polls to vote in their local and state elections. As the federal government and the Supreme Court pose a threat to many groups’ human rights, states’ rights have become paramount to protecting marginalized groups in Rhode Island. This year, the Rhode Island LGBTQ community is tasked with choosing candidates at the state and local levels who will fight for and preserve the state’s hard-earned LGBTQ and human rights legislation.

Justice Gaines and Donna Nesselbush are two names you should know going into September 12’s election.

THE CANDIDATES JUSTICE GAINES is a

transwoman, activist, organizer, Brown University graduate, and a Fox Point resident. She is also running for Providence City Council in Ward 1. Justice is motivated by the enthusiasm of her local community, and the willingness of the community members to see their city succeed. She plans to give power back to her constituents by giving them a voice and representing them in an honest way.

As she put it, “People who live here want to see Providence succeed… they want to see it be better. I haven’t really necessarily seen the electoral process

12

Options | September 2018

as a solution to many issues, but I have seen it become a barrier to a lot of change…[I want to represent] residents in a way that really prioritizes them.”

Ms. Gaines is focused on a sustainable future for the residents of Ward 1 in Providence. If elected, Justice will tackle education and housing first to improve the quality of life and build a framework for inclusivity in the area. And she means inclusivity in every way. Justice believes that her constituents are essential in the decision making. That means teachers and students will be included to decide on curriculum and inclusive bathroom policies, and community residents will be included in conversations about what it will take for them to maintain and afford their homes.

“Getting students more involved in the governance in education is paramount. I think we see our schools failing and we’re only going to continue to see that if we’re only treating our youth as students and we’re not treating them as legitimate, valid stakeholders in their own education. They need to have a stronger voice in what our curriculum looks like. ” If Justice Gaines wins her election, she will become the first trans person to ever hold a position in Rhode Island history.

SENATOR DONNA NESSELBUSH

is also a member of the Rhode Island LGBTQ community and running for re-election in the State Senate. She is an out lesbian and was first elected to the Rhode Island State Senate in 2010. Nesselbush has always been committed to making a difference in her community and the state she calls home. When she was first elected to office, Rhode Island had not yet legalized marriage equality, and the country had undergone a serious economic downturn due to the recession. Jobs were scarce, and the state budget deficit did not allow citizens to collect pensions.

Looking back on her previous terms in office, Nesselbush said, “I also ran to try to make a difference. Eight years ago, Rhode Island was deep in recession with a terrible unemployment rate and a structural budget deficit caused in large part by pensions that were promised but that we could not afford. Passing pension reform was a sad but necessary step, while passing marriage equality has been my proudest moment.”

This year, she is up for re-election, and one issue she would like to focus pending her victory is the statute of limitations on childhood sexual assault/ abuse. Nesselbush will work to pass legislation that will illuminate and elongate the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse. The legislation,

if passed, would acknowledge the irreparable damage done to a victim’s life and allow for the perpetrators of these horrible crimes to be exposed and “have their day in court.” Nesselbush said, “Right now the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse is seven years, for adult sexual assault/abuse, it is three years.These short time periods are totally unrealistic. The private pain and shame of victims has shielded perpetrators and their protectors from responsibility.”

Nesselbush has also underscored the importance of the big strides the LGBTQ community has made here in Rhode Island. However, she mentioned that there is still more work to be done, particularly when it comes to protecting the trans community. “More work needs to be done especially on the legislative front. Discrimination and hate still exist, especially vis-à-vis the transgender community.” In addition to protecting the trans community, the senator recognizes the difficulties same-gender couples face when they use reproductive technology to have children. Often, these couples have issues with names on birth certificates or establishing parentage through adoption. Therefore, Nesselbush wants to enact the “Uniform Parentage Act” that will change old statutes and legislation and accommodate the rights and needs of the LGBTQ community.

THE ISSUES AT HAND Over the past year or so, Rhode Island’s LGBTQ community has had significant wins, inching the community closer to equality in this small, but mighty state.

Governor Gina Raimondo signed a bill that amended state law and requires the deceased’s gender identity to be reflected on their death certificate. The state has also banned the “gay panic defense,” making it illegal for a perpetrator to use the victim’s sexuality or gender identity as a justification to act in selfdefense or to claim that their identity was a provocation. In addition, at around this time last year, Governor Raimondo signed a bill that banned conversion therapy in Rhode Island from practice by any licensed therapist treating people

under 18. Same-gender marriage is also legal in Rhode Island, and has been for several years now. In the lead up to this election, by and large, things are looking good for the community.

REPRESENTATIVE EDIE AJELLO, longtime ally and advocate for the RI LGBTQ Community, has echoed this same sentiment. When asked about the issues LGBTQ Rhode Islanders face in the upcoming election she said, “I think Rhode Island is in pretty good shape.

We’ve been leaders in a number of things and passing two pieces of legislation… we’ve got our own laws – whatever happens at the federal level.” Progress towards LGBTQ equality in the state has been undeniably substantial, but what Rhode Islanders should focus on this election is voting for candidates who will protect this legislation from dismantlement at the state level. With a Republican majority in the house and a conservative Supreme Court Justice looming in the future, LGBTQ rights – and human rights in general – hang in the balance.

SENATOR JOSH MILLER (another LGBTQ ally and advocate) says that voting in these local elections is imperative to sustaining and preserving human rights. According to Miller, even your city and town council elections could affect civil rights legislation in the state. In Cranston (Miller’s district), constituents who want to preserve immigrant, LGBTQ, and reproductive rights should be highly engaged in the local government and head to the voting booths on Wednesday, September 12.

Miller feels if voters are able to turn majority Republican city councils to majority Democrat, this change will have the most immediate impact on local human rights legislation.

You can find your polling place based on your address with a sample ballot by visiting the RI Secretary of State’s website at https://vote.sos.ri.gov/. In addition, be sure to pay close attention to all of the candidates in your district or ward. Some of the districts and municipalities in Rhode Island only yield Democratic candidates without any Republican opponents.

Therefore, your primary may be finite and decide the election.

Lauren Vella is a freelance writer based out of Providence. She can talk for hours about LGBTQ issues, gender politics, and the newest LGBTQ shows and books. She founded the LGBT/feminist blog AwkwardandOut.com and can be found on Twitter @LaurenVella.

www.optionsri.org

13

Newport

by Rex LeBeau

LGBTQ Candidates in

City Council Race

The country may be going to ruin as we know it, but Rhode Island is the state of hope, and in the upcoming 2018 election, two LGBTQ people cast their names to run for the Newport City Council. The council consists of seven seats, one member representing each of the three wards, and four at-large members representing all of Newport.

Angela McCalla filed her candidacy for the Ward 1 council seat, comprising the northern third of Newport, where she lives with her wife and son. McCalla works for Child and Family, recruiting and training foster parents, and has a long history of

working for nonprofits. She is a board member of Lucy’s Hearth, Sankofa Community Connection, and the North End Neighborhood Association, and is also on the Parent Advisory Council with the Newport Public Schools. Newport is home to some very wealthy people, and McCalla’s goal is to help families on the other end of the financial spectrum.

Valerie Larkin is running for the Ward 2 council seat. She works for the Naval Undersea Warfare Center and is very active in the Newport community.

Larkin plays for the band Midnight Honey, volunteers for Bike Newport

and TEDx Newport, and even gave a moving TEDx talk in 2016 about her transition. Governmental transparency and helping make Newport an affordable place to live and a welcoming place for artists and musicians are some of her priorities to improve the city.

Larkin will face two opponents in the September 12 primary.

While Newport City Council elections are nonpartisan, each candidate faces an opponent in the election. Voters living in Wards 1 and 2 have the opportunity to help elect these progressive women.

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Options | September 2018

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15

Youth Pride Eases Students Into the New School Year

by Executive Director Elana Rosenberg and Benji Chaplin The start of the school year can be stressful for any student, especially those worrying about fitting in because of their unique gender or sexual identity. It’s important that you know a bit about the wonderful resource that is Youth Pride Inc., so that the students in your life understand that they don’t have to struggle with their identity alone.

Youth Pride, Inc. strives to meet the unique needs of youth and young adults impacted by sexual orientation and gender identity or expression, while working to end the homophobic and transphobic environments in which they live, work, study, and play. We achieve this through a variety of services and activities offered in our Providence drop-in center, and through working with the RI community outside our doors.

Our services and programs are open to youth between the ages of 13 and 24, and include a night for young folks between the ages of 9 and 13. All YPI Center services and activities are free to youth.Together, they experience cultural, educational, social, and wellness activities, workshops, and events at YPI and around the state. At YPI, youth find strength and support in each other; build lasting relationships with staff and other adult volunteers and community members; receive one-on-one counseling with licensed clinicians; access our basic needs pantry for food, clothing, toiletries and school supplies; and build the leadership skills they need to

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Options | September 2018

change the world beyond our doors.

Across Rhode Island, we provide technical assistance and professional development sessions to service providers, educators, and students. YPI supports GSAs in schools, and works on policy and advocacy at an individual and systemic level.

Learn more about YPI from our youth, staff, and volunteers by joining us for YPI’s Annual Rainbow Party on September 23, from 1:30-3:30pm at The Dunes Club. Look for our invite in this issue for more details!

The following is written by YPI youth, Benji Chaplin:

This time of year is always a stressful time for me because I know soon it’s going to be the first day of school. Starting freshman year in high school scared me to death. I went in wondering: Do I look straight enough?

Is there anything I can do to not be called gay? I never really could find my place in school. I was always very shy, quiet, and very awkward. Any time another student approached me, they immediately asked me questions like: What are you? Which gender do you like? Why do you look like a girl? Are you trans? I felt like no one was going through the same thing I was, until I discovered this place called Youth Pride Inc.

Youth Pride does amazing work and has given me all sorts of great resources and opportunities. I remember when I first stepped foot in YPI at the end of August during my sophomore year, right away I was greeted by a staff member who explained to me what YPI was and what they do. After I went home that day I kept returning every time they were open. I learned things that I had been unaware of, and started learning about the LGBTQ+ community. I was able to finally find my identity. I met a lot of people who have felt and experienced what I felt in school.

Inspired by the work YPI has done for me and other youth, I decided I wanted to be more involved. I participated in OUTSpoken, and about a year later I was able to join the board of directors. This summer, I was hired as a summer staff member. Looking back on how long I have been coming to YPI and how much they have helped me, I hope to move into a career path of becoming a theater major and pursue acting/film. YPI will always be a big part of my life. It’s something I will always remember and appreciate.

Youth Pride Inc. provides support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 9-23. Our Drop-in Center is at 473 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02903. Visit www.youthprideri.org, email info@youthprideri. org, or call (401) 421-5626 for more info.

ANYTIME, ANYPLACE: APRI’s New Mobile Testing Van Hits the Road

by Mikel Wadewitz, Ryan White Director, AIDS Project Rhode Island “Take Charge, Get Tested!” That’s the empowering rallying cry of APRI’s free, rapid HIV/STI testing program. Our goal is not only to make sure everyone knows their HIV status and feels in control of their health, but to make sure getting a test for HIV, syphilis, or hepatitis C is both comfortable and easily accessible. To ensure that more people have that kind of testing experience we recently rolled out our new testing van. Fully air-conditioned, remodeled to provide a comfortable, private space for clients, and the perfect size to bring to events across the Ocean State, the van is helping us expand our reach and offer services to more people than ever before.

Among the locations where we’ve already provided testing are: Rhode Island Pride, Family Service of Rhode Island’s recent block parties at Harriet & Sayles Park, the Congdon Street Baptist Church health fair, and the Dominican Festival at Roger Williams Park. At the time of this writing, we’re also planning to offer testing via the van at the upcoming Guatemalan Festival and the African Health Summit, and to regularly partner with Lucy’s Hearth in Middletown.

APRI would like to thank both the Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services for their assistance in getting the van up and running, as well as Mike Gianfrancesco at Luigi’s Auto Repair and Dave Faiola at Intensive Care Auto Repair Enterprises in Providence for helping us customize the van for our clients. The van rounds out APRI’s robust testing program, through which we offer free walk-in testing four days a week at our 9 Pleasant Street, Providence offices (just off of North Main Street), testing via appointments, and testing with more than a dozen community partners, including almost every college and university in the state.

It is currently estimated that one in seven people in the United States still don’t know their HIV status. Lack of knowledge about how testing is done, stigma, discrimination, fear, and other barriers can prevent individuals from getting tested for HIV and other STIs. In Rhode Island specifically, HIV infection rates rose slightly in 2017. Rates of syphilis – especially among men who have sex with men (MSM) – rose, and hepatitis C is now estimated to affect roughly 20,000 people in the state. MSM still account for more than two-thirds of all new HIV infections, with many of those occurring in men under the age of 30.

We have the tools to reverse these trends and ensure that anyone who needs treatment receives it. Our “Take Charge,

Get Tested!” program is designed to let people talk openly and honestly about their sexual health and to remind everyone that knowledge is power. Knowing your HIV/STI status and getting tested regularly, using prevention tools such as condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), talking to your partner(s), and getting medical care when needed means you are taking care of yourself and staying healthy for the long run.

APRI, a division of Family Service of Rhode Island, is dedicated to providing a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and collaborative response to the needs of people living with, affected by, and at risk for acquiring HIV. APRI currently provides comprehensive prevention and HIV/STD testing services. For more info, visit aidsprojectri.org, facebook.com/AIDSProjectRhodeIsland, twitter.com/AIDSProjectRI, or call (401) 831-5522.

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www.optionsri.org

17

by Yael Bat-Shimon and Paula Smith

Ask Yael & Paula

Hello, LGBTQ community! Let us introduce ourselves. We are Yael and Paula and we’re grateful to Options for the opportunity to share our experience, strength, and hope with you on a variety of issues that impact LGBTQ life, including relationships, marriage, culture, 12-step spirituality, addiction and recovery, parenting, trauma, and sexuality.

We are a married couple, one of us Jewish and the other Black. We were both born in the 1960's: Yael in St. Louis and Paula in New Orleans. Desegregation was just beginning in our neighborhoods and interracial marriages were rare and, in most communities, taboo. Today there are still very few models in our country of how to talk about race and differences in general, so we have been each other's teachers.

Yael: I grew up in a “progressive” family, so I thought I was immune to homophobia (and racism). When I came out at 13, I spent a lot of energy struggling with my own internalized homophobia and trying to get my family to accept me. It hurt that my parents didn’t immediately celebrate when I told them I was gay. I felt shame and like something must be wrong with me, which I’m sure a lot of us LGBTQ folks go through.

Paula: I have been uncovering layers of my true identity since I was 14 in order to find real love as a same-gender-loving Black woman. Growing up in my Black Catholic patriarchal family, I was told that

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Options | September 2018

loving another woman “like that” was a sin and that I would go to hell. But the first time I kissed a girl at age 14, I experienced a different kind of fire. My whole being ignited.

And I knew it was natural and a gift from the Divine.

Falling in love with each other inevitably brought to the surface all of our differences (racial, religious, cultural, etc.), our dysfunction, and our past traumas. Believe us when we say this scared us! For a couple of years we struggled to the point that we didn’t know if we were going to make it. But despite our struggles and differences over the past 12 years, we have found a way to understand what is going on in our relationship and how to resolve conflicts when they come up. Today one of the main beliefs that we both share and what holds us together is progress and not perfection. We are equally magnificent and equally fucked up. There’s no such thing as one person being perfect.

Being in relationship is the hardest thing we ever have to do and, get this: it’s the very thing we are not prepared for. Even though same-sex marriage is legal, LGBTQ folks can still be vulnerable to violence, bigotry, and discrimination because of who we love, and at times we can turn that hatred against ourselves, particularly if we are struggling in relationships. So our vision of love must include generosity, courage, trust, reciprocity, shared values and interests, good communication, empathy, patience,

and understanding.

We have made mistakes and we’ve had successes, but what has been constant is our ability to fail and learn from our missteps rather than blaming and undermining each other. In this political climate where so many of us feel devalued and subjected to personal assaults on a daily basis, it is more important than ever to treat each other with love and respect. We want this to be a safe haven for you to tell us what is going on in your lives and where we can be of guidance and support to you. We really want you to reach back to us. We invite you to email us with your stories, questions, successes, challenges, hopes, fears, etc. We want to be in conversation with the LGBTQ community and support you to the best of our ability.

In gratitude and peace,

Yael & Paula

Yael Bat-Shimon, MA, LMHC & Paula M. Smith, M.Div., MFT are Certified Imago Relationship therapists in private practice in RI. They offer weekend workshops for couples, relationship training for single individuals, and couples therapy. Write to Yael & Paula with your questions at yaelandpaula@optionsri.org.

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by Ethan Huckel With another election season upon us, we at TGI Network are reflecting on the positive changes that we have seen and the goals that are yet to be realized. On a statewide level, the greatest positive changes that we have celebrated over the last few years have been trans-inclusive healthcare, the LGBT conversion-therapy ban, and school policies to support our transgender and gendervariant students. Here in Providence, we also saw the passage of the Community Safety Act, which specifically calls for the protection of transgender people, aiming to ensure that we are not inappropriately targeted by law enforcement. Without question, we have seen positive changes that have improved the lives of those in our community.

But there is work still to be done. On a local level, we at TGI Network are looking forward to seeing the Community Safety Act enforced appropriately and effectively. We are looking forward to seeing the data that is gathered through the new accountability measures and are looking for public servants who will promote our community’s safety and fair treatment.

On a statewide level, we have a number of goals in mind as we prepare to head to the polls. We support passage of the Parentage Act, which will update the language we use to identify a child’s parents on their birth certificate.The bill was first introduced in the previous legislative session and will return next year. Inclusive language will eliminate the costly, degrading process of second-parent adoption that many in our community face. Without question, the time has come for a non-binary option on our state driver’s licenses.

Also, there is a critical and alarming lack of emergency housing and related services for our transgender community members. Fixing this problem should be a primary goal of our state leaders.

We need leaders who will anticipate the effects our community may face from a challenging national political environment, and who will do what they can to proactively protect our rights and way of life here in Rhode Island. Additionally, we are looking for leaders who will stand up for immigrants’ rights in Rhode Island, as we recognize in particular both the needs of transgender asylum seekers and the complexities that transgender immigrants face acquiring appropriate identification.

We are hopeful that the following term will include waves of progress for our community, but, as always, support from our elected officials is vital to making the changes we so desperately need.

TGI Network of Rhode Island is the only statewide organization providing support, advocacy and education for the transgender, gendervariant, and intersex community (aka trans* community). Incorporated in 2011, our mission is to be a resource for TGI people navigating their lives and the medical and legal systems; to serve as a resource for professionals working with TGI people; and to serve as a liaison between the TGI and LGB communities and the community at large. Visit us at www.tginetwork.org.

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19

OUT ON THE TOWN

Free Play Gayme Night -1st Anniversary Celebration, Aug. 12 - Free Play Bar Arcade, Providence Photos by Jen Bonin

N

Drag Brunch, Aug. 19 - Parlor Bar and Kitchen, Newport Photos by Jen Bonin

by Chris Cedroni

Finding Solace with Your Peers You are 19 years old and HIV positive.

How do you explain that to someone who asks you on a date?

For many of the members of AIDS Care Ocean State’s Solace Youth and Young Adult Group, this is not an academic question. Acceptance and understanding can be a constant struggle for young people, but the burden is compounded by being HIV positive. In Solace, they can ask important questions and get honest answers. The group offers the opportunity to discuss issues that affect them: HIV stigma, staying healthy, how to disclose your status, and above all, how to live a fulfilling life.

The program has been a part of ACOS’s approach to care for over 20 years. Group members serve as role models to other members of the group, and provide valuable feedback for members with difficult questions.

With the addition of Tony Costagliola, the group’s therapist, and Scott Mitchel, the Peer Support Specialist, members also receive professional guidance from

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Options | September 2018

trained staff, helping them with the medical, emotional, and social issues that are specific to the HIV community.

The group is open to young people ages 14 and up. Tony typically meets with young people in a one-on-one clinical setting to make sure that the group is right for them. Scott, who is also in charge of AIDS Care Ocean State’s Speakers Bureau, provides valuable insight on living with HIV. “It’s really a family.” Tony explains.

“Everyone is welcoming and eager to catch up with each other. We’ll arrange transportation for those who need it and anything else to make sure that members can get the most out of the group.” This even includes a sign language interpreter for a deaf 16-year-old member.

Several of the group members have been with ACOS since birth—when AIDS Care Ocean State ran FACTS, one of the first pediatric nurseries for HIV

positive children in the country. As in-vitro HIV treatment evolved and mother-tochild transmission dramatically decreased, the nursery was no longer needed, but addressing the issues of growing up with HIV remains a top priority for the agency.

“My role is to nurture, support and educate the group,” says Scott. I encourage them to be aware of what’s happening in the world. We try to empower them and help them develop their voice so they can advocate for themselves.”

AIDS Care Ocean State provides comprehensive AIDS service, supportive housing, emergency funds, and a Speakers Bureau. Located at 18 Parkis Avenue, Providence. (401) 521-3603. Appointments: (401) 781-0665. www.aidscareos.org.

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www.optionsri.org

23

REVIEW:

by Kwana Adams

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Options | September 2018

Photo courtesy of Netflix

Queer Eye is a Netflix Original makeover show that premiered in February. The premise: Five gay men suddenly turn up in someone’s life and lead them through a complete lifestyle change. I’ll admit, I’m not a big fan of makeover shows so I avoided Queer Eye for a while. I was afraid it would portray caricatures of gay men. However, I decided to give it a chance and I’m so glad I did. The Fab 5, as they’re called – Karamo, Tan, Jonathan, Antoni, and Bobby – each have their own specific job. They focus on confidence, healthier eating, and home style changes on top of physical changes to hair and clothing. This show isn’t just about making people pretty.

The first episode absolutely warmed my heart. The way the Fab 5 got along with Tom, their first fashion victim, was amazing. Tom was so sweet, and the Fab 5 were sweet to him in return, even when they needed to remind him that asking who the husband and wife were in a gay relationship was sexist. They handled it so respectfully without yelling or arguing;Tom definitely unlearned that behavior. I was worried that many more comments like that (or worse) would be made, and I was relieved when that didn’t happen.

The relationship they all had with Tom was beautiful. I was touched when Tom said he became friends with them and he loved them. They made sure to treat him with respect and constantly remind him that he was a great, good looking man who had a lot of potential. One thing I also absolutely loved was this wasn’t the type of makeover show where people come in and completely trash everything, thereby insulting the person getting the makeover.

While they did throw some things away, they also let Tom keep a lot of things and explained to him kindly why a change might be good for him.

It was so refreshing to see. I almost cried along with Tom after seeing all the improvements the Fab 5 made to his home and wardrobe. You witness Tom going from “you can’t fix ugly” to absolutely beaming with pride and happiness. It’s easy to imagine makeover show subjects falling back on old habits, but I think I don’t have to worry about Tom at all. They taught him important lessons big and small, like taking better care of his skin and loving himself inside and out.

Their second makeover subject, Neal, was a lot more closed off. As someone who shares that character trait, I could almost feel his discomfort radiating through my screen. However, Neal was open enough to allow the Fab 5 to peek into his life, which indicates a willingness to change. While Neal came off as resistant, you could see that he was taking in what he learned and really wanted to switch up his lifestyle. Not only is it entertaining to watch these transformations, it’s inspiring.

It makes you want to work on yourself and help others around you. Once Neal

got to the haircut phase of his makeover, he was noticeably more comfortable but still nervous. He sat there and let Jonathan do his thing and the result was fabulous – not only the haircut, but the confidence it instilled.

The scene in the third episode where the Fab 5 got pulled over was almost too real for a minute. I genuinely got scared as soon as Karamo was asked to step out of the car. I was so relieved that it was just a joke and didn’t escalate, but because of the present climate regarding police and the

The relationship they all had with Tom was beautiful.

I was touched when Tom said he became friends with them and he loved them.

black community, I was also a bit annoyed.

I know it was intended in good fun but I couldn’t stop thinking of scenarios where this interaction didn’t go so well.

Cory, the makeover receiver, didn’t seem to be prejudiced (or show it outright) so I kept my judgments to myself. His Make America Great Again hat just took me out. Some part of me was expecting it. I mean, it was bound to happen and the fact that he was a cop didn’t surprise me in the slightest. Even when the Trump sign was discovered in the garage, it was still respect all around from the Fab 5.

The moment where Karamo was in the car with Cory discussing his experience with cops as a black man made me tear up. It was hard to hear him

talk about that, but it’s a very real issue and I love seeing it addressed openly on TV. When Karamo was talking about the stereotype of being labeled a criminal I was disappointed that Cory interrupted to talk about how he is labeled a bad guy as a cop. Cory’s experience is certainly valid, but I felt it was inappropriate to mention it at that point in time. He gets to take his uniform off when he’s not working and live without the stereotype; Karamo and other black people don’t get to take off their skin. I was kind of hoping that there would be that fairytale moment of clarity where he understands where Karamo is coming from without making it kind of an All Lives Matter thing. There wasn’t, but that’s okay. I also acknowledge that my perspective on this scene is unique. Overall, the talk was refreshing. I didn’t need to see Cory painted as a bad guy, but more like someone who just needs to have this conversation in a car with a black man.

I honestly wasn’t expecting this kind of moment from a makeover show. I could sense the discomfort that these conversations are meant to provide – to make people uncomfortable so they can address that feeling and unpack it. If we all just listened to each other and had these uncomfortable conversations, we could be in a much better place. Not every show or episode has to have a lesson, but I liked that this one did.

I loved that instead of choosing someone to completely transform into someone else, Queer Eye helps to grow each person into a better version of themselves. They don’t simply focus on outward appearance, but on health and confidence as well. I can’t say enough about how inspiring I find that to be. I initially misjudged this show and I’m ecstatic I gave it a chance – although I probably don’t need another show to binge watch!

Kwana Adams is a 24-year-old Community College of RI student who likes cats and vintage sweaters.

www.optionsri.org

25

SMALL STEPS:

Inclusion and Awareness Benefits the LGBTQ Community

by Jason Furlan, Manager of Contact Center Oversight, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of RI

Rhode Island may be small in size, but our steps toward creating an inclusive environment for the LGBTQ community can have a big impact on our understanding and support of this community.

According to a 2016 study conducted by the Williams Institute on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Law and Public Policy, more than 4,000 individuals in Rhode Island identify as transgender. However, given historical biases and minority anxiety within this community, this number is likely much larger since many are not comfortable publicly identifying as transgender. Regardless of the true number, the takeaway is clear: this population is not often considered when healthcare decisions are made in our state.

Healthcare is perplexing and stressful – and if you’re feeling misunderstood or alienated as a member of the LGBTQ community, it can add another layer of frustration and fear. To accommodate the LGBTQ community, healthcare providers can offer small, yet impactful solutions including LGBTQ resource groups, healthcare benefits and financial planning specifically geared toward the community, or simply offering equally reduced rates to the LGBTQ community as they do for cisgender individuals.

To align with this notion, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) has worked to make access to care easier for LGBTQ members. Some of these improvements involve bigpicture initiatives including adding gender-affirming care and coverage to our policies, broadening gender-affirming care to include the full scope of medically necessary services for those transitioning, and supporting and recognizing healthcare

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Options | September 2018

practices that provide safe, affirming, and inclusive care to the LGBTQ community through our Safe Zones program. While these broader initiatives are crucial, BCBSRI also recognizes the importance of seemingly simple steps that result in a hugely impactful outcome.

Our most recent initiative is to add a third gender option to our insurance claims process. In 2019, the new process will include a non-binary “X” gender marker to empower transgender and gender non-conforming members. This may seem like it is simply administrative, but it also is valuable in creating an inclusive experience for all members.

There are other steps that community partners can take to ensure accurate representation of LGBTQ Rhode Islanders so they can access the high-quality, affordable healthcare they deserve. Holding inclusivity as a core value, Rhode Island community groups, government officials, and business organizations can welcome all members of the LGBTQ community by partnering with local and national LGBTQ centers, increasing programs and events focusing on awareness and cultural competency, and conducting consistent and substantial outreach to members of LGBTQ community.

This outreach includes state-based health surveys such as the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which will provide visibility for those in the LGBTQ community suffering from substance use disorders and other physical and mental health issues. These measures can help work toward establishing a comfortable environment that ensures explicit acceptance.

These are just small changes that can make a big impact in achieving inclusion for ALL patients and ensuring they are understood and supported, which is all any of us could hope for and expect when receiving healthcare. BCBSRI’s mission is to improve the quality of life of our members and facilitate their access to affordable high-quality healthcare – and it’s our duty to ensure this mindset extends to and includes all Rhode Islanders.

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island is the state’s leading health insurer and covers more than 450,000 members. The company is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information, visit www.bcbsri.com, follow us on Twitter @BCBSRI, and like us on Facebook at fb.com/bcbsri. To learn more about Safe Zones, visit bcbsri.com/safezones.

Progress Report From SAGE-RI

by Cathy Gorman

SAGE-RI has been busy! Our active Advisory Committee has been working together since the winter to enhance SAGERI’s presence in the Rhode Island LGBTQ community, and the group has accomplished a lot. In April of this year, SAGE-RI hosted an LGBTQ Community Meeting where presentations were provided on LGBTQ history in Rhode Island, civil rights issues impacting the LGBTQ community, and LGBTQ-specific health care initiatives, such as the Blue Cross Blue Shield LGBTQ Safe Zone Certification Program. SAGE-RI reported on the status of its reorganization involving the exploration of community partnerships. Representatives from many of Rhode Island’s LGBTQ organizations were also present and shared information and updates on their organizations.

SAGE-RI appreciates the generous support it has received from the community, particularly to all who participated in our Bowling Fundraiser held this spring at Town Hall Lanes in Johnston.

In April, West View Nursing and Rehabilitation Center provided a delicious catered meal at the LGBT Café, in recognition of their Blue Cross Blue Shield Safe Zone Certification. In May, SAGE-RI hosted an intergenerational dinner at Lemongrass in Warwick, bringing together LGBTQ community members of all ages to eat and chat and learn from one another. In June, SAGE-RI was named an Honorary Marshall at this year’s Rhode Island Pride Parade along with Youth Pride and the TGI Network. Recently the Imperial Court announced its commitment to raise funds for SAGE-RI. In addition to community events, SAGE-RI conducts ongoing activities to promote its mission and educate the community about issues facing LGBTQ seniors.The monthly LGBT Café program cosponsored by the Division of Elderly Affairs and Meals on Wheels of RI offers a nutritious lunch and guest speakers on topics of interest and value to attendees. The next Café is scheduled for Friday, September 21 at 12pm at the Church of the Transfiguration in Cranston. Those interested in attending should call 351-6700 x105 to reserve a spot.

SAGE-RI volunteers also provide education and promote awareness of issues facing LGBTQ seniors to local colleges, healthcare providers, and social service providers. Our goal is to increase the capacity of those working with LGBTQ seniors and to create spaces that are inclusive and supportive of LGBTQ seniors.

SAGE-RI and the National Association of Social Workers RI Chapter invite all to attend a special screening and workshop entitled, “Gen Silent: Understanding LGBT Elders and Practice Implications” on Friday, October 5 at One Rhodes Place, Cranston, RI, from 8:15am to noon.The workshop will showcase the critically acclaimed documentary Gen Silent by the award winning producer and director Stu Maddox. The film focuses on the lives of six LGBTQ elders living in nearby Massachusetts, offering a powerful portrait of the struggles they face in later life.The silent generation fought the earliest battles for equality and now faces the prospect of returning to the closet for fear of discrimination.This documentary has been viewed by medical schools, governmental policy experts, and elder care agencies around the world committed to creating safe environments for an underserved, at risk minority. Better still, it has been described as the best film ever on aging and the role of innovative community services. The film will be followed by a discussion and presentations from a panel of experts to include

clinical social workers, and community activists working with Rhode Island’s older LGBTQ community. Key issues and practice concerns will be addressed as well as research on demographics of the LGBTQ elder population nationally and specific to Rhode Island.

Continuing education credits (CEs) in social work will be available – three in cross-cultural practice. Other professionals should check with their local regulatory boards to determine if CEs approved by the National Association of Social Workers Rhode Island Chapter will be accepted for re-licensure. To register online, go to www. rinasw.info and go to the CE Program tab.

Although we have made some great strides this year, there is so much more that needs to be done.The Advisory Committee is in the midst of a strategic planning process and would love more LGBTQ community members to get involved. SAGE-RI is again accepting memberships and is planning for an Annual Meeting to be held in October (date to be determined). At that meeting, we plan to update the community about our progress and next steps.

Stay tuned for further announcements, and consider becoming a member or participating in any of our upcoming events.

SAGE-RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) addresses issues of concern to LGBT elders and is an organization of diverse people of all ages. For information on programs or to join SAGE-RI, drop us a line at sageriinfo@gmail.com; find us on Facebook as SAGE-Rhode Island; or send correspondence to our new address SAGE-RI c/o the Church of the Transfiguration, 1665 Broad Street, Cranston, RI 02905

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RESOURCES Options originated in 1982 as the offical newsletter of the Rhode Island Gay Task Force. Editor Jos Fayette explained, “The RIGTF wants to make the homosexual community aware of their options as gay men and women in Rhode Island. And it’s only because we live, work, love, and play in this state that there are such a large number of options available to all of us.” Options has always, and will continue to print LGBTQ resources so that

you can, as Fayette went on to say, “Exercise your OPTIONS today to make positive changes in your life tomorrow.”

Help us help you! Email info@optionsri.org if you come across a resource listing that needs updating. New, updated, and featured resources are highlighted. Phone numbers are in the 401 area code and addresses are in Rhode Island, unless otherwise indicated.

ADDICTION SUPPORT GROUPS

AIDS Quilt RI: Displays local AIDS memorial quilt panels, panelmaking programs including Anna’s Workshop, HIV/AIDS education for young people. PO Box 2591, Newport. 434-4880. admin@ aidsquiltri.org. www.aidsquiltri.org.

Brown University AIDS Program: Clinical trials, public policy, research, lectures, conferences, patient and community education.

121 South Main Street, Second Floor, Providence. 863-6790. brunap@brown.edu. brown.edu/Departments/BRUNAP. Community Care Alliance: Case management, support, personal care items for people living with HIV/AIDS in northern Rhode Island. 245 Main Street, Woonsocket. 235-6092. lcohen@famresri.org.

Comprehensive Community Action Programs: Medical, mental health, dental, social services, LGBT outreach. 311 Doric Avenue, Cranston. Also Coventry, Pawtucket, and Warwick. 4679610.

Gabriel Care, LLC: Nursing/social worker case management and financial compensation for assistance and supervision for those living with HIV. MassHealth funded for MA residents. 376 South Main Street, Fall River, MA. Contact Jenn, (508) 678-1002.

HIV Antibody Testing: Anonymous. Free or sliding scale. RI Department of Health. Providence, Newport and other locations.

222-2320.

Home and Hospice Care of RI: Medical care management for HIV/AIDS. 24hr nursing staff for treatment. 1085 North Main Street, Providence. Referrals: 782-0725. Bereavement groups: Contact John Charette, 727-7079. Main Office: 415-4200 or toll-free 800338-6555. www.hhcri.org.

House of Compassion: HIV/AIDS housing. 2510 Mendon Road, Cumberland. 658-3992.

LGBT Caregiver Online Support Group: For LGBTs caring for someone with chronic health problems. www.caregiver.org Luis E. Martinez House CHS, Inc.: Supportive, permanent housing for 10 adults living with HIV/AIDS and/or substance abuse.

New Bedford, MA. Contact Joe Taylor. (508) 984-7514.

Miriam Hospital HIV & STD Testing Clinic: For gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, HIV, Hep C, and trichomoniasis. Linking to physicians for PrEP. Wed. -- Fri. 12:30 -- 3:30. 1125 N. Main St., Providence (rear of building). 793-4715

AA Brothers in Sobriety: Saturday 7:30pm. 372 Wayland Avenue, Providence. 751-9328.

AddictionCenter.com: Web information guide for addiction resources nationwide. Or call 1-877-830-2915.

Alcohol/Drug Helpline: RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence. 24hr. (866) 252-3784.

RI LGBT AA Group: Tuesdays 7 -- 8 pm Bell Street Chapel, 5 Bell St., Providence, 273-5678. All are welcome.

Seven Hills Behavioral Health: Addiction support services and Narcan. 1173 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA, 508999-4159. 310 S. Main Street, Fall River, MA, 508-235-1012.

Leonard Amaral, Program Manager, lamaral@sevenhills.org.

Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous: 12-step program. Fridays at 7pm. Providence Presbyterian Church, 500 Hope Street, Providence, side entrance, downstairs to the left. Gay, but all are welcome.

YPTQ (Young People, Queer, Trans) meeting of AA: Wednesdays 7:30 -- 8:30pm, “common room” of Brown University Alumni Hall, 194 Meeting Street, Providence.

AIDS/HEALTH RESOURCES

Afia Center for Health & Wholeness: Meals, food pantry, HIV support groups, recreational and social activities. Sponsored by AIDS Project RI. Free to clients.. Wed. and Thurs. 12 -- 3pm. 134 Mathewson St., Providence. Info: Kim Clohecy, 831-5522, Ext. 2299.

AIDS Action Hotline: MA only. (800) 235-2331. www.aac.org.

AIDS Care Ocean State: Confidential HIV & Hep C testing, safersex supplies, case management, emergency funds, clinical services, assisted and supportive housing for people living with HIV/AIDS, street outreach, ENCORE, HIV+ support groups. Speaker’s Bureau, 18 Parkis Ave., Providence. 521-3603 (call 781-0665 to schedule an appointment). www.aidscareos.org.

AIDS Project RI: Division of Family Service of RI. Case management, buddies, COBRA and dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment and referral, wellness programs, advocacy, strength training, prevention education, HIV testing. 9 Pleasant Street, Providence. 831-5522 www.aidsprojectri.org.

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Partners in Learning About AIDS: Outreach to minorities, women of color, and LGBT community at clubs and other locations.

North Providence office provides free condoms and information about STIs and post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. 1006 Charles Street, Suite 5, North Providence. 484-7523. info@plaidsproject. org. www.plaidsproject.org Planned Parenthood of So. New England: Confidential, lowcost, same-day & walk-in STD and HIV testing. Commonsense approach to health. 175 Broad Street. 800-230-7526. www. ppsne.org.

Prima CARE Transgender Clinic: Fall River, MA. Counseling, hormonal reassignment, referrals for surgery. Kishore Lakshman, MD. 508-235-0481.

Seven Hills HIV Prevention & Screening: TWIST program, HIV and STI prevention and testing, partner care. 1173 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA, 508-999-4159. 310 S. Main Street, Fall River, MA, 508-235-1012. Contact Leonard Amaral, lamaral@sevenhills.org.

SSTAR (Stanley Street Treatment & Resources): Counseling, drug treatment, detox, domestic violence programs, free and confidential HIV, HEP C, and STD testing, education, case management and support. MA and RI locations. 386 Stanley Street, Fall River, MA. (508) 679-5222. Project Aware (HIV/HCV); (508) 324-3561. Family Healthcare Center; (508) 675-1054. www.sstar.org.

Steppingstone, Inc.: Welcome Home Medical case management program. One-on-one peer support in Somerset to Wareham area. HIV support groups available. Free and open to any HIV+ person 18+. 5 Dover Street, New Bedford, MA. (508) 984-7514. www.steppingstoneinc.org.

Tranquil Mind & Wellness: Counseling, alternative healing, yoga, Pilates, meditation.109 Rhode Island Road, Lakeville, MA. (508) 947-1683. www.tranquilmind.net.

Thundermist Health Center: Provides HIV/AIDS services including medical care and treatment by an HIV specialist, dental care, behavioral health counseling, nutritional assessment and counseling, pharmacy consultation, free and confidential HIV testing. 450 Clinton Street, Woonsocket. Contact Philip Kane. 7674100 ext. 3516.

RILGBT-News: Low-volume email distribution list for LGBT & AIDS news from RI. Not a discussion list. To subscribe: tinawood@cox.net.

South Coast LGBTQ Network: Information & advocacy network for individuals of all ages. 774-371-0711. info@ sclgbtqnetwork.org. www.sclgbtqnetwork.org.

United Way of RI Referral Line: 2-1-1 on your telephone.

INFORMATION/EDUCATION

POLITICAL & LEGAL GROUPS

The Center for Sexual Pleasure & Health: Education, pleasure, health, advocacy. Tues. -- Sat. 12 -- 6 and by appointment. 250 Main Street, Unit 1, Pawtucket. 489-5513. www.thecsph.org.

Fenway Community Center LGBT Helpline: Support, information and referrals. Fenway Community Health Center, Boston. Open daily 6-11pm. (617) 267-9001 or 888-340-452 GLBT National Help Center Hotline: Local resources nationwide provided by social services agency. 888-843-4564. www.glbtnationalhelpcenter.org.

Newport Out: LGBT website for Newport. www.newportout.com.

American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 128 Dorrance Street, Suite 400, Providence. 831-7171. riaclu.org.

Amnesty International OUTfront: Program to campaign globally for LGBTQ human rights. (212)807-8400. Cvohs18904@ yahoo.com. www.amnestyusa.org.

Brown University Queer Alliance: Student advocacy and support organization. queer@brown.edu.

Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): LGBT/HIV legal info hotline. Weekdays 1:30-4:30pm. 30 Winter Street, Suite 800, Boston, MA. (617) 436-1350 or (800) 455-GLAD. gladlaw@ glad.org www.GLAD.org.

Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall Street, Suite 1500, NY. (212) 809-8585. www.lambdalegal.org.

Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD): Advocates for LGBT causes. lawyersforequality@gmail.com.

NIGHTLIFE The Alley Cat Providence: Downtown neighborhood bar.

Monday-Thursday 3pm-1am, Friday 3pm-2am, Saturday 2pm2am, Sunday 2pm-1am. 19 Snow Street, Providence. 272-6369.

Bobby’s Place: Dancing, pool, video lounge, karaoke. SundayWednesday 5pm-1am, Thursday-Saturday 5pm-2am. 62 Weir Street, Taunton, MA. (508) 824-9997. www.bobbysplacema.com.

Brooklyn Coffee Tea House: 209 Douglas Ave., Providence: public/private venue for music, art, film screenings, weddings, showers, etc. RHODYWOOD@yahoo.com; 359-0192.

Club Body Center: Gay men’s sauna. Membership required.

One-day pass available. Open 24hr. 257 Weybosset Street, Providence. 274-0298. www.cbcresorts.com.

The Dark Lady: Downtown bar and nightclub. TuesdayThursday 9pm-1am, Friday & Saturday 9pm-3am, Sunday 9pm1am. 17 Snow Street, Providence. 272-6369.

EGO: Providence’s newest gay nightlife performance/event space. Sunday and Thursday 9pm-1am, Friday and Saturday 10pm-3am, 73 Richmond St, Providence. 383-1208. www.egopvd.com.

Mirabar: Downtown bar and nightclub. Monday-Thursday 3pm-1am, Friday and Saturday 3pm-2am, Sunday 3pm-1am.

15 Elbow Street, Providence. 331-6761. www.mirabar.com.

Providence Eagle: Leather, Levi, bear cruise bar. MondayThursday 2pm-1am, Friday 2pm-2am, Saturday-Sunday 12pm2am. 124 Snow Street, Providence. 421-1447.

The Stable: Downtown video bar. No cover. Monday-Thursday 2pm-1am, Friday 2pm-2am, Saturday 12pm-2am, Sunday 12pm1am. 125 Washington Street, Providence. 272-6950.

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National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues. info@ nlgja.org, www.nlgja.org.

The Next Thing (TNT): Political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. 863-3062. tnt@ brown.edu.

RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: Hate crime awareness training program. www.hatecrimeri.org.

RI Socialist Action: 952-5385, adgagneri@gmail.com. Spanish: 351-3514, walsil@cox.net.

RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations, and credit. 180 Westminster Street, 3rd floor, Providence. 222-2662 TTY: 222-2664, richr.ri.gov.

Scouts for Equality: An organization composed largely of Boy Scouts of America alumni dedicated to ending the BSA’s ban on gay members and leaders. Contact Carol Crowther. ccrowther1@ gmail.com. Facebook.com/riscoutsforequality.

Servicemembers Legal Defense Network: Serving LGBT military personnel and veterans. PO Box 65301, Washington DC. (202) 328-3244. or (800) 538-7418. sldn@sldn.org. www.sldn.org.

RELIGIOUS & SPIRITUAL

All Saints Memorial Church: 674 Westminster Street, Providence.

751-1747. asmcri@verizon.net. www.allsaintsmemorial.org.

Amicable Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming.

Pastor William Sterrett. Sunday 10am. 3736 Main Road, Tiverton.

624-4611. amicablechurch@aol.com, www.amicablechurch.org.

Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists: robin@awab.org, www.awab.org.

Barrington Congregational Church: UCC. “The white church.” Sundays 10am. 461 County Road, Barrington. 246-0111. office@bccucc.org, www.bccucc.org.

Bell Street Chapel: Unitarian Universalist. A Welcoming Congregation. Rev. Margaret Weis. Sundays 10am. 5 Bell Street, Providence. 273-5678. www.bellstreetchapel.org.

Beneficent Congregational Church: UCC.An Open & Affirming congregation in the heart of Providence. Sundays 10am. 300 Weybosset Street, Providence. 331-9844. BeneficentChurchUCC@ gmail.com, www.beneficentchurch.org.

Berean Baptist Church: A safe and welcoming place for all God’s children. Sunday 10am. 474 Chapel Street, Harrisville. 568-5411. bereanbaptist@verizon.net. www.bereanri.net Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown: LGBTQ early dementia support group. Contact Amy. Sundays 10:30am. 200 Turner Road, Middletown. 847-6181, www.middletownmethodist.com.

Central Congregational Church: UCC. An Opening & Affirming Congregation. Sundays 10:30am. 296 Angell Street, Providence.

331-1960. www.centralchurch.us.

Channing Memorial Church: Unitarian Universalist. A Welcoming Congregation. Sundays 10am. 135 Pelham Street, Newport.

846-0643. administrator@channingchurch.org. www.channingchurch.org.

The Chapel of the Holy Spirit: Independent Old Catholic.

Fr. Jakob Lazarus. Sunday 9am and 6pm. 155 Douglas Avenue, Providence. 413-4821. www.holyparaclete.org.

Chapel Street Congregational Church UCC: Open & Affirming.

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185 Chapel St., Lincoln, RI. 722-7934. www.chapelstreetucc.com.

Charter Oak Grove ADF: An Open and Welcoming Congregation of Neo-pagan Druids in CT. charteroakadf@gmail.com, www.charteroakadf.org.

Christ Church in Lonsdale: 1643 Lonsdale Avenue, Lincoln.

Services 8am and 10:30am.725-1920.office@christchurchlincoln.org. www.christchurchlincoln.org.

Church of the Ascension, 390 Pontiac Ave., Cranston, RI 02910.

Sundays at 10am. 461-5811. www.ascensioncranston.org.

Church of the Epiphany: A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. 1336 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence. 434-5012. info@epiphanyep.org, www.epiphanyep.org.

Church of the Redeemer, a Welcoming Episcopal church. 655 Hope St., Providence. www.redeemerprovidence.org. office@ redeemerprovidence.org. Rev. Patrick Campbell, 331-0678.

Concordia Center for Spiritual Living: A diverse community welcoming all spiritual paths to God. Sunday Celebration 9:15am.

292 W. Shore Rd., Warwick. Rev. Ian Taylor, 732-1552. info@concordiachurchri.com. www.ConcordiaCSL.com.

Edgewood Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming.

Service 10am. 1788 Broad Street, Cranston. 461-1344. office@edgewoodchurchri.org. www.edgewoodchurchri.org.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church: Sundays 8 and 9:30am. 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland. 658-1506. office@emmanuelri.org. www.emmanuelri.org.

First Unitarian Church: A welcoming congregation.

Sunday 10:30am. 1 Benevolent Street, Providence. 421-7970. admin@firstunitarianprov.org, www.firstunitarianprov.org.

First Unitarian Church: Service 11am. 71 8th Street, New Bedford, MA. (508) 994-9686. admin@uunewbedford.org, www.uunewbedford.org.

First Universalist Society: UU. Welcoming congregation. Samegender weddings. 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin, MA. (508) 5285348. fusf@verizon.net, www.fusf.org.

Foxboro Universalist Church: UUA. Service 10am. 6 Bird Street, Foxboro, MA. 508-543-4002. chair@uufoxborough.org. www. uufoxborough.org.

Grace Episcopal Church in Providence: 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225. hello@gracechurchprovidence.org. www. gracechurchprovidence.org.

Hopedale Unitarian Parish: Sundays 10:30 am. 65 Hopedale St., Hopedale, MA. www.hopedaleunitarian.org, 508-473-0745. Rev. Tony Lorenzen.

Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation. Pastor Sandra Demmler D’Amico. 647 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2898. www.immanuellc.org.

Interweave at Channing Memorial UU Church: Organization for the spiritual, political and social well-being of LGBTQ persons, and their allies, confronting oppression. 135 Pelham Street, Newport.

846-0643.

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd: A “Reconciling in Christ” congregation (Welcoming). 3383 Old North Rd., Kingston, RI. Sundays 9 am. Pastor Mary Hansen-Joyce. 789-7776; office@ goodshepherdri.org Mathewson St. Church: United Methodist. 134 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-8900. MathewsonStUMC@gmail.com.

Mercy of God Community: Christian, inclusive religious order. mercycomm@yahoo.com, www.mgc.org.

Murray Unitarian Universalist Church: Marriage and commitment ceremonies for all. Rev. Bob McKetchnie.

505 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org.

Newman Congregational Church: Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford. 434-4742. www.newmanucc.org.

Newport Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming.

Rev. Hayes and Rev. Baker. 73 Pelham Street, Newport. 849-2238.

Park Place Congregational Church: 71 Park Place, Pawtucket.

726-2800. office@ppucc.necoxmail.com, www.parkplaceucc.com.

Pilgrim Lutheran Church: An inclusive congregation. Sundays 8 and 9:30am. 1817 Warwick Avenue, Warwick. 739-2937. parishasst@pilgrimlutheranri.org, pilgrimlutheranri.jimdo.com.

Pilgrim United Church of Christ: Open and Affirming. 635 Purchase Street, New Bedford, MA. (508)-997-9086.

Providence Presbyterian Church: 500 Hope St., Providence.

Service 10 am. 861-1136. www.provpresri.org. provpresri@ verizon.net.

The Pub Church: An Open & Affirming church that meets in a pub. Location may change. Saturday 5pm. The Dugout, 722 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA. thepubchurch@gmail.com.

Riverside Church: UCC.15 Oak Avenue, Riverside. Service 10am.

433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com.

St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 15 Lower College Road, Kingston. 783-2153. Sundays 8am and 10am.

StAugustinesChurch@necoxmail.com, www.staugustineuri.org.

St. James Church: Episcopal. 474 Fruit Hill Avenue, North Providence. 353-2079.

St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: Sundays 8 and 10am. 50 Orchard Avenue, Providence. 751-2141. StMartinsNB.Secretary@gmail.com, www.stmartinsprov.org.

St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: Welcoming Church. Monthly LGBT Eucharist. 136 Rivet Street, New Bedford, MA. (508)9948972. stmartins1887@comcast.com, www.stmartinsma.org.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church: Sundays 9am. 50 Park Place, Pawtucket. 728-4300. office@stpaulspawtucket.org, www.stpaulspawtucket.org.

St. Paul’s Church: A welcoming Episcopal church. Sundays 9am.

2679 East Main Street, Portsmouth. 683-1164. stpaulsportsmouthri. org.

St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church: 25 Pomona Avenue, Providence. 272-9649.stpanda25@verizon.net. www.stpeters-standrews.org.

Saint Therese Old Catholic Church: Open & Affirming. Fr. David Martins. Sunday 10:30am. 1500 Main St., W. Warwick, RI 02893. 680-9076. stocc134@gmail.com, www.saintthereseocc.org.

Second Congregational Church of Attleboro: UCC. Open & Affirming. 50 Park Street, Attleboro, MA. Sunday 10am. (508) 2224677. office2nd@verizon.net. www.attleborosecondchurch.org.

Seekonk Congregational Church: Open & Affirming. Sundays 9 and 10:30am. Rev. Joy Utter, 600 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, MA. (508) 336-9355. sccucc@verizon.net. www.scc-ucc.com.

Soka Gakkai: Buddhist association for peace, culture, and education.

Contact for weekly meetings in Providence. 930 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston. (617) 264-2000. www.sgi-usa.org.

Temple Agudas Achim: Reconstructionist congregation.

901 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2243. office@agudasma.org, www.agudasma.org.

Temple Beth-El: Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Avenue, Providence. 331-6070. info@temple-beth-el.org, www.temple-beth-el.org.

Temple Emanu-El: A welcoming Conservative congregation.

Rabbi Wayne Franklin. 99 Taft Avenue, Providence. 331-1616. info@teprov.org, www.teprov.org.

Temple Habonim: A warm, Welcoming Reform congregation.

Rabbi Andrew Klein. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. 2456536. office@templehabonim.org, www.templehabonim.org.

Temple Sinai: A Welcoming Reform temple. Rabbi Jeff Goldwasser, 30 Hagen Avenue, Cranston. 942-8350. webmaster@templesinairi.org, www.templesinairi.org.

Unitarian Church in Fall River: Sunday 10:30am. 309 North Main Street, Fall River, MA. 508-678-9700. office@unitarianchurchfr.org, www.unitarianchurchfr.org.

Unitarian Universalist Society of Fairhaven: Service 10:30am.

102 Green Street, Fairhaven, MA. (508) 992-7081. www.uufairhaven. org.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of South County: 27 North Road, Peace Dale. 783-4170 or Val 789-7282. uucscri@ yahoo.com. www.uusouthcountyri.org.

United Congregational Church, 524 Valley Rd., Middletown RI 02842. A Welcoming congregation. Sunday, 10 am. www.UCCMiddletown.org. 849-5444.

Westminster Unitarian Universalist Church: A UUA Welcoming Congregation. 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich.

884-5933. www.westminsteruu.org.

SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS Bisexual Resource Center: PO Box 170796, Boston, MA. (617) 4249595. brc@bicresource.net www.biresource.net.

Biversity Boston: Mixed-gender social events for Boston and the surrounding area. (617) 424-9595. biversity-subscribe@biversity.org, www.biversity.org.

Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches, coming out groups and quarterly newsletter “Bi Woman Quarterly.” www.biwomenboston.org.

Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGSYA): 56 Barnstable Road, Hyannis, MA. (508) 778-7744. info@cisgsya.org, www.cigsya.org.

Communisong: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. www.communisong.net.

Gay Men’s Social Group: FirstTuesdays,6 -- 9pm,Seven Hills Behavioral Health, 1177 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford, MA. Refreshments. Info: Lenny Amaral, 508-999-4159 or lamaral@sevenhills.org.

Imperial Court of RI at Providence: Drag and non-drag performers raise funds for local charities. All welcome to general membership meetings on first Monday at Dark Lady, 17 Snow Street, Providence. icri.prov@gmail.com. www.icriprov.org.

Mixed Borders Gardening Group: Gardening and more. Monthly meetings, all welcome. Mixedborders@cox.net. www.mixedborders.com.

Opera Club: Enjoy hearing and attending. Last Sunday of each month at 1pm. BrettCornellpi4@aol.com.

Providence Gay Men’s Chorus: New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and non-singing volunteers welcome.

Monday 7-9:30pm. Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset Street, Providence. www.provgmc.org.

Queer Book Club: 3rd Wednesday, 7pm. Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence, queerbookclub@gmail.com.

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RI Association of Gay Professionals: Networking and philanthropy. www.riagp.com.

RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children.

Contact Melanie. 464-2288. saphicangel120@yahoo.com.

RI Pride: Open house 4th Wednesdays. Festival & Parade 3rd Saturday in June. Office: 1055 Westminster St., Providence 02903. Mail: PO Box 1082, Providence, 02903. 467-2130. info@prideri.com, www.prideri.com.

RI Prime Timers: Social and networking group for older gay and bi men. Second Sunday. Call Steve, 996-3010. www.riprimetimers.org.

RI Skeptics Society: Yearning to talk with someone rational? Refreshing discussion. Fourth Saturday. East Providence restaurant location. www. meetup.com/skeptics-133/.

RI Women’s Association: Lesbian social group. 21+. Dances & events. www.riwa.net SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Advocacy, education and social events for LGBT seniors. SAGE-RI at CareLink, 1 Virginia Ave., Providence, RI 02905. 443-4451. sageriinfo@gmail.com. www.sage-ri.org.

SEMASSMEN: Social group for GBQ men of southeastern MA & RI to foster strong friendships. Semassmen-subscribe@ yahoogroups.com. rlevass@yahoo.com.

Smart Monkey Gay Men’s Support Group. Meets twice monthly in Cranston to learn about integrity, intimacy and male roles. Write Paul (ctripaul@yahoo.com) or Steve (43dadzone@gmail.com).

South Coast Social Club for Gay & Bisexual Men: Social and networking opportunities for gay & bisexual men in S.E. Mass. www. southeastsocialclub.com.

Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for GLBT vintage and specialty car enthusiasts. www.yankeelcc.com.

SPORTS & RECREATION PrideSports Boston: Network of twenty-plus gay sports leagues/teams in Boston area. www.pridesportsboston.com.

Boston Gay BASKETBALL League: ksg.bgbl@gmail.com, www.bgbl.com.

BOATING: Yankee Cruising Club, New England’s club for LGBTQ boaters. www.yankeecruising.org. yankeecruisingclub@ gmail.com. Keith (508) 423-6123.

Big Gay Al’s Duckpin BOWLING League: Proceeds benefit AIDS causes. Tuesday 6:30pm. 1463 Atwood Avenue, Town Hall Lanes, Johnston. Contact Frank Ferri. 831-6940.www. bgalbowling.com. www.townhalllanes.com.

FIELD HOCKEY: Teamworks Somerset, 732 Lee’s River Ave., Somerset, MA. New season every 10 weeks. (508-676-3956) info@teamworkssomerset.com GALA Bowling League: Sundays 5:50 p.m., E. Providence Lanes, 80 Newport Ave., E. Providence. Season begins in Aug. View us on Facebook or email galabowling1990@gmail.com.

FLAG (For Lesbians And Gays) FOOTBALL: Bostonbased recreational football club. All skill levels are encouraged to participate. Saturday mornings in the fall and spring. www. flagflagfootball.com.

Boston Pride HOCKEY: www.bostonpridehockey.org.

Rondeaus KICKBOXING: 272-5425. www. rondeauskickboxing.com.

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Main Street MARTIAL ARTS: Non-profit. Welcoming dojo and community center. 1282 North Main Street, Providence.

274-7672.www.mainstma.org.

Chiltern Mountain Club: OUTDOOR recreation club in New England. events@chiltern.org. www.chiltern.org.

Boston Gay ROWERS: Worldwide online community for gay and lesbian rowers, coxies, coaches, and race officials. www.glrf.org.

Boston Ironsides RUGBY Football: www.bostonironsides.org.

Providence Women’s RUGBY Club: Competitive and recreational. www.providencerugby.com Frontrunners Rhode Island RUNNING Group: Running and walking group. Newcomers welcome. Meet at the end of Blackstone Boulevard at Hope Street, Providence. Thursday 6pm. Contact Brian. 751-7643. bripm@cox.net, frontrunnersri@ gmail.com Frontrunners Boston RUNNING Group: Morning walk/ run along the Charles River. Saturdays,10am. Club Cafe, 209 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA. www.frontrunnersboston.org.

OutRyders SKIING: New England’s largest gay and lesbian ski and snowboard club. www.outryders.org.

Boston Strikers SOCCER Club: Non-profit social organization to learn and improve soccer skills in a relaxed, congenial environment. www.bostonstrikers.com.

Renaissance City SOFTBALL League: New players and boosters always welcome. www.providencesoftball.org.

Beantown SOFTBALL League: Friendly competition. 27 teams in four divisions of play: competitive, intermediate, and recreational. (617) 297-7490. www.beantownsoftball.com.

LANES (Liquid Assets New England SWIMMING): Fitness and/or competition. (617) 937-5858. www.swim-lanes.org.

TENNIS-4-All: Boston area tennis organization. www. tennis4all.org.

Cambridge Boston VOLLEYBALL Association: Players of all skill levels welcome. secretary@cbvolleyball.net www.gayvolleyball.net.

Ocean State Pride VOLLEYBALL League: Adult coed indoor league following USVBA rules. No try-outs. Fee applies. Kent County YMCA, 900 Centerville Road, Warwick. ospvolleyball@gmail.com.

East Coast WRESTLING Club: (617)937.5858 x6. ecwc@juno.com. www.eastcoastwrestlingclub.org.

STUDENTS & YOUTH Bristol Community College The Lambda Connection: (TLC@ BCC) Robert Delaleu, Advisor; BCC-G118, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA (774)357-4056.

Brown University Queer Alliance: Umbrella organization at Brown University for LGBTQ groups. 863-3062. queer@brown.edu or lgbtq@brown.edu.

CCRI Gender Equity Initiative: SafeZone & Trans* 101 training.

Support, info for LGBTQ people and allies. www.ccri.edu/genderequity.

CCRI Triangle Alliance: an LGBTQQ student-run group at CCRI, on the Flanagan, Liston, and Knight campuses. www.ccri.edu/triangle/.

Home to Hope: Support for housing-insecure LGBT youth 13 -- 24. Crisis intervention, medical and other services. At YPI (743 Westminster St., Prov.) and Mathewson St. Church (134 Mathewson St., Prov.) varying days and times. For info/appointments: ayanna@ rihomeless.org or 484-7720.

LGBT National Youth Talkline: 800-246-7743. Private one-to-one chat and info on local resources.

Peer Listening Line: Youth-staffed hotline for GLBT youth. Support, info and referrals. 5-10pm. Fenway Community Health Center, Boston, MA. (617) 267-9001 or (800) 399-PEER. www.fenwayhealth.org.

Queer & Trans Thursdays: 6-8pm. Space for LGBTQ and heterosexual youth (24 and under) of color to foster coalition-building and organize to address intersections of oppressions. 669 Elmwood Ave., Rm. B7, Providence. www.prysm.us. 383-7450.

Rhode Island College LGBTQ+ Office: works towards inclusion of gender, gender identity/expression and sexual orientation in all appropriate aspects of campus life. 401-456-9033 www.ric.edu/lgbtq Salve Regina University – The Alliance: 100 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport. Contact: Benjamin Mead, benjamin.mead@salve.edu S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Square, Providence. 865-1631. shepard@providence.edu.

The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks. (866)4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386). thetrevorproject.org.

University of RI LGBTIQ2: Alumni association. 874-5808. gsimonelli@uri.edu.

URI LGBTQ Center: A cultural department for students, faculty and staff. Florence Badejo. 874-2894.

Youth Pride Inc.: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13--23. Tues. -- Fri. 2 -- 8pm. The Way Out peer support group Thurs. 4pm. Gender Spectrum support group Tues. 4pm. Visit our website for full calendar of events. 743 Westminster St., Providence. 421-5626. info@youthprideri.org. www.youthprideri.org.

SUPPORT GROUPS & SOCIAL SERVICES

Abuse Victims and Survivors: Support on phone for LGBTQ victims & survivors of partner abuse. Confidential peer-led groups. Hotline: (617) 742-4911. TTY: (617) 227-4911. advocate@tnlr.org.

Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help. Jewish Family Service, 959 North Main Street, Providence. Contact Betsy Alper. 3315437. www.adoptionoptions.org.

Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center: Offering resources for victims of domestic violence. 723-3057. www.bvadvocacycenter.org.

Child & Family Services: Counseling, young parent support, adoption, more. LGBT groups beginning July. Open six days.

66 Troy St., Fall River, MA. (508) 676-5708. www.childfamilyservices.org Community Care Alliance: Stipend, assistance, training provided by Family Resources Community Action. 235-6095. www.famresri.org.

Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group.

Boston first Thursday 7-9pm. compassftm@gmail.com. www.compassftm.org.

Crossroads RI Hotline: (800) 367-2700.

Day One: Counseling & legal aid for victims of sexual assault/ abuse & incest. 24hr hotline. (800) 494-8100. 421-4100. www.dayoneri.org.

Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County: Support, court advocacy, counseling, safe home, info for women and men in abusive or controlling relationships. 24hr free and

confidential helpline. 782-3990 or toll free 800-494-8100, www.dvrcsc.org.

Family Service of RI: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing adoptive families. Family Service of RI. Contact Gregary Wright. 331-1350 ext. 3305. www.familyserviceri.org.

Foster parents needed: For newborn to age six. 276-4300. www.childrensfriendri.org.

Gay Fathers of Greater Boston: Support. 738 Main St. #323, Waltham, MA. (781) 333-8429. info@gayfathersboston.org, www.gayfathersboston.org.

Gay Men’s HIV+ Social Group: Third Tuesdays, 6 -- 9pm.

Refreshments. Seven Hills Behavioral Health, 1177 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford, MA. Info: Lenny Amaral, 508-999-4159 or email lamaral@sevenhills.org.

Gay Officers Action League (GOAL)/New England: Law enforcement officers (sworn & civilian), fire, rescue & publicly employed EMS. Confidential. P.O. Box 171587, Boston, MA 02117. www.newenglandgoal.org. On Facebook at NewEnglandGOAL. Gay Share: Coming Out? Gay men’s support group. No fee.

Wednesday 7:30pm. Contact Tom or Mike. 369-9448. info@ gayshare.org, www.gayshare.org.

LGBT Grief Support: Meets regularly at Hope Hospice, 1085 No. Main St.., Providence. Rebecca Sizelove, 415-4301.

Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline and social networks for crisis and suicide prevention. 24/7. (866) 4-U-Trevor.

HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group: Refreshments served.

AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Avenue, Providence. 5213603. New members contact Scott. 640-3108.

Kathys’ Group: Free support group for lesbians with cancer or any life-threatening illness. Partners and caregivers welcome.

Meets monthly in Providence. 888-5KATHYS. Mantalk of S.E. Mass: Thurs. eves. in Taunton, MA. Social support for gay, bi, and questioning men from Mass. and RI. Confidential, drug- and alcohol-free. Find us on Facebook and MeetUp. MentalHelp.net: National directory of inpatient treatment options for those with substance abuse problems. www. mentalhelp.net/care/substance-abuse/ri/ Partner Support Group at Fenway Health: A ten-week support group with the purpose of building community and connections for anyone who identifies as non-trans, ages 18+, and is in a relationship with a trans* person(s). 1340 Boylston Street, Boston, MA. Contact Sarah Eley, LICSW. 857-313-6551. seley@fenwayhealth.org.

PFLAG (Parents, & Friends of Lesbians & Gays): Attleboro Chapter serves Southeast Mass. Third Wednesday 6:45 p.m., Second Congregational Church, 50 Park St. (side door). email pflagattleboro@gmail.com. Greater Providence Chapter serves all R.I. First Wednesday at 6:45 p.m., Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571. PFLAGprovidence@gmail.com. www. pflagprovidence.org.

Project RENEW: Support, employment services, HIV prevention for male and female sex workers. Amos House, 415 Friendship St., Providence. 272-0220. Trans support group meets Thurs. Info: transoutreachpwr@gmail.com.

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Queer & Trans Thursdays: Space for LGBTQ and heterosexual youth (24 and under) of color to foster coalitionbuilding and organize to address intersections of oppressions.

6-8pm. 669 Elmwood Ave., Rm. B7, Providence. www.prysm. us. 383-7450.

Rape Crisis Center for S.E. Mass: New Hope, Inc. Advocacy, shelter, services for domestic abuse survivors. Hotline (800) 323-HOPE. Office (508)226-4015.

RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence: 24hr helpline: (800) 494-8100. 467-9940.

RI Rainbow Support Group: For people with disabilities who identify as LGBTQ. Last Tuesday. 98 Rolfe Street, Cranston.

6-7:30pm. Contact Ken Renaud. 785-2100.

Samaritans: 24hr hotline for suicidal, lonely, despairing, depressed. (800) 365-4044. 272-4044 (RI only). www. samaritansri.org.

Seven Hills Behavioral Health: HIV Prevention and Screening.

310 South Main Street, Fall River, MA. (508) 235-1012. T.W.I.S.T. (508) 672-0378.

Sexual Health Education & Advocacy Program: HIV, sexual wellness, domestic violence risk reduction. Free, confidential, bilingual (Spanish). No caller ID used. Calls blocked for safety.

861-6191 ext. 121.

Sojourner House: Call for confidential support group.

Support, shelter, advocacy and information for people in abusive relationships. Including specific LGBT services. No caller ID used. Outgoing calls blocked for safety. 24hr helpline. 765-3232.

861-6191. Office 861-6191. www.sojournerri.org

Is your organization listed in Options’ Resources section?

If not, why not?

If yes, please review your listing for accuracy.

Send your current info to resources@optionsri.org.

A $25 donation to Options per year is suggested.

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Options | September 2018

St. Mary’s Home for Children: Sexual abuse treatment for children. 450 Fruit Hill Ave., No. Providence. www.smhfc.org.

Adam Cable, 353-3900.

Straight Spouses: Groups and online support. www. straightspouse.org.

TGI Network of RI: Support, advocacy for transgender, transsexual, gender-variant and/or intersex people. Borderlands peer group 1st & 3d Tues. and 1st & 3d Sat. of the month.

Location & information: 441-5058. info@tginetwork.org. www. tginetwork.org.

Trans* Partners New England: Gives romantic partners of transgender people a confidential, safe space to explore the impact of a loved one’s gender identity on their relationships, and to connect with other loved ones of transgender people. First Wednesday 6:30-8:30pm. Providence. Location unpublished for privacy. partners@tginetwork.org.

Trans* Youth Family Allies: Support for gender-variant and transgender children ages 3-18. info@imatyfa.org, www.imatyfa. org.

Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA): Growing organization to address the concerns of fair treatment of transgender veterans and active duty service members. www.tavausa.org.

Women’s Resource Center of Newport and Bristol Counties: Offering services to victims of domestic violence.

846-5263. www.wrcnbc.org.

Now Available Individual and Couples Therapy Groups Hypnosis Evaluations School Based Services

Services in English and Spanish

Felicitations

By Felicia Nimue Ackerman

ELEANOR'S SONG

*At the July 23 Legislative Wrap-Up held for the public by the Rhode Island ACLU, State Representative Edith Ajello mentioned that another representative said something along these lines in a conversation with her about the bill ensuring that death certificates respect people's gender identity.

So now they'll concede I was female On the document stating I'm dead.

"But why should you care, Since you'll hardly be there To see it?" a foolish man said.* Of course, by the very same token You might as well not make a will, Since once you're no more You can hardly deplore Your preferences counting for nil.

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