Watermark's Rainbow Family Guide 2021

EST. 1994

RAINBOW FAMILY GUIDE 2021

watermark’s rainbow family guide

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Family (fam-uh-lee), noun A social unit consisting of one or more adults together with the children they care for.

LET LOVE DEFINE family.

Find out more about becoming a foster family.

1.866.90.CHILD  EmbraceFamilies.org/foster

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res Adventu

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We Are Family

The Best Day!

Reading Rainbow

20 Inclusive Activities

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Campus Pride

Summer Fun

LGBTQ Resources

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WATERMARK’S RAINBOW FMAILY GUIDE GUIDE 2021 PUBLISHED BY WATERMARK PUBLISHING GROUP, INC .

OWNER & PUBLISHER Rick Clagget

business manager

Kathleen Sadler

editor-in-chief

Jeremy Williams

tampa bay bureau chief

Ryan Williams-Jent

creative designers Dylan Todd Ezri Ruiz

sales director

Danny Garcia

advertising sales Sam Callahan Michael Wier

founder & guiding light Tom Dyer

Contents of this Spring Arts Guide 2021 are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the permission of the publishers. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members or organizations. Watermark Publishing Group cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

© Watermark Publishing Group, Inc., Phone: ORL: 407-481-2243 TB: 813-655-9890 Publisher@WatermarkOnline.com WatermarkOnline.com

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Music by STEPHEN FLAHERTY Lyrics by LYNN AHRENS Book by LYNN AHRENS and STEPHEN FLAHERTY Co-Conceived by LYNN AHRENS, STEPHEN FLAHERTY, and ERIC IDLE Based on the Works of DR. SEUSS

JULY 16 • 8 PM JULY 17 • 8 PM JULY 19 • 4 PM

JULY 23 • 8 PM JULY 24 • 8 PM JULY 25 • 4 PM

JULY 30 • 8 PM JULY 31 • 8 PM AUG 1 • 4 PM

SEUSSICAL is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

CarrollwoodCenter.org • (813) 922-8167

HOME IS WHERE YOUR FAMILY IS. Let’s work together to find you the right house to make your home.

Cell: (813) 530-5687

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INCLUSIVE REAL ESTATE. Who you are matters.

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WE ARE FAMILY

ow Family Guide

Watermark’s second annual Rainb

Tampa Bay

Central Fl.

jeremy williams

F

amily is a difficult word to define. Sure, if you pick up a dictionary or do a Google search you can find a textbook definition of the word – but it isn’t going to give you the full spectrum of what family is and what it

means because family means something different to everyone. or weeks, months, even years at a time. But if there’s

age 14-17 —that cover a variety of topics

drawn to a scene from one of my all-time favorite

love dear, those are the ties that bind and you’ll have

including gender, families, pronouns, history,

movies, 1993’s “Mrs. Doubtfire.” If you haven’t seen

a family in your heart, forever.”

Pride, coming out and more to help LGBTQ

When I think of what family is, my mind is always

it, what have you been waiting for?! It is one of Robin

That monologue has stuck with me for nearly 30

kids learn more about their community and

Williams’ best performances and tells the story

years and is the best description of family I have ever

themselves, and for non-LGBTQ kids to learn

of a couple who divorce and the impact it has on

heard. Whether it is the one you were born into or

how to be good allies.

the whole family. Also, Williams dresses up as an

the found family you discover as you venture out into

elderly British woman and becomes his ex-wife’s

the world, love is what makes you family. And love

and exciting activities for kids of all ages to

housekeeper named Mrs. Doubtfire.

is what we used to put together our second annual

learn more about pivotal LGBTQ moments in

Rainbow Family Guide for you, out readership family.

history, different sexual orientations and gender

At the end, Williams — dressed up as Mrs.

Next, we have put together a set of fun

Doubtfire — is responding to a letter he received

In this guide, we worked to bring LGBTQ

from a little girl named Katie, whose parents are

families information and resources on exploring

getting a divorce. She doesn’t think they will be a

the community in your area, learning more about the

variety of LGBTQ resources throughout Central

family anymore, leading Mrs. Doubtfire to respond to

LGBTQ world and hopefully learning to be your most

Florida and Tampa Bay including information

Katie’s letter by saying:

authentic selves.

on LGBTQ-friendly summer camps; inclusive

“There are all sorts of different families, Katie.

In these pages, we share the story of Allan

identities, important LGBTQ people and more.

Finally, we have several pages devoted to a

campus clubs at local colleges and universities;

Some families have one mommy, some families

and Rev. Jakob Hero-Shaw from Tampa, Florida as

and a listing of local, statewide and national

have one daddy or two families. And some children

they travelled across the world to put their family

groups and organizations to help you with all

live with their uncle or aunt. Some live with their

back together and prove love is not limited by sex,

your LGBTQ needs whether you are an LGBTQ

grandparents, and some children live with foster

gender or age.

parent or the parent to an LGBTQ child.

parents. And some live in separate homes, in

We also gathered a collection of LGBTQ books —

separate neighborhoods, in different areas of the

three for the younger kids age nine and under, three

country — and they may not see each other for days

for those tweens age 10-13 and three for teenagers

We hope you enjoy the stories, have fun with the activities and find these resources useful.

watermark’s rainbow family guide

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Visit artandhistory.org/summer for more information!

Summer Session June 7 - July 30

Weekly art workshops for Elementary, Middle, and High Schoolers at the historic Maitland Art Center. Choose from painting, mixed media, and more!

Registration begins soon at www.artandhistory.org/summer

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the best day! ntinental One family’s cross-co on road to legal recogniti

ryan williams-jent

H

usbands Allan and Rev. Jakob Hero-Shaw have long understood the critical role that a loving and supportive family can play

in someone’s life, whatever shape it takes. That’s particularly true for their fellow members of the LGBTQ community, for whom they’ve professionally advocated for years.

Allan has done so as the Tampa operations

“I remember him telling me that he had kids,”

he and Allan decided it was the right time to discuss Jakob’s gender identity.

manager for Metro Inclusive Health, which has

Jakob says. “We had dated for a little while, but we

provided health and social services to Tampa Bay’s

wanted to wait until it was serious before I met

LGBTQ community since 1993. Jakob has worked to

them. He wasn’t going to have someone meet the

Jakob recalls. “First it was that he was gay and had a

meet the spiritual needs of that same community

kids that wasn’t going to stick around.

boyfriend … and then one night, he explained that

as the senior pastor for the LGBTQ-affirming

“We made sure it was for real, because we had a

“Allan came out to them about me in stages,”

I’m transgender and what that meant. I wasn’t there

Metropolitan Community Church of Tampa, which

discussion about being all in,” he continues. “There

and they both texted me to tell me ‘We love you no

was founded in 1971.

was no halfway. I had to either be all in with the

matter what. It doesn’t make a difference.’”

As the parents of 19-year-old twins Mima and Ruben, the importance of unconditional love

family or not be a part of the family.”

All in it was. Not long after the Hero-Shaws’ six-

“Oh, yeah,” Allan says warmly. “It was completely unimportant.”

at home is also something they comprehend

month mark, Allan’s ex-wife decided not to return

Time only strengthened their love, though the

personally. While their children biologically

from Scotland after a vacation to the country with

family’s time together was soon interrupted. As a

stem from Allan’s previous marriage, the

the children.

part of the divorce process, the 13-year-old twins were ordered to visit their mother in Scotland –

fathers committed to building their family together

“There was no real notice,” Jakob says. “It sped

not long after they began dating in 2012. Nearly 10

up our process of me getting to know the kids really

years later, Jakob’s adoption of the two was finalized

well, because suddenly Allan was parenting full time..

on March 25, 2021.

As we were getting to know each other – and we

supposed to send the back in early January,” Allan

were pretty smitten – we had to make a decision

says. “Instead of doing that, she took the kids

about how serious we were going to be.”

and went into hiding. There was an international

The path to that legal recognition was a long one for the Hero-Shaws, spanning not just multiple courts but multiple continents. It began for Allan

Transitioning to the role of single parent wasn’t

leading to their overseas abduction.

“This was December 2014, and she was

abduction process.”

That process involved the U.S. Department of

and Jakob after they met on “a sleazy, gay chat app,”

particularly difficult for Allan, who notes that he

they now laugh.

was the primary caregiver for the children even

State and the Hague Convention, a multilateral

while married. “My main criteria was always that

treaty between nations. It provides for the return of

out as gay. It also followed a contentious divorce

the kids would come first,” he says. “Their needs

children who have been internationally abducted.

from his ex-wife, with whom he’d moved to the U.S.

were paramount.”

Their exchange took place a year after Allan came

from Scotland in 2003 after the birth of the twins.

Jakob agreed and the four quickly began bonding

“It’s a reciprocal agreement,” Allan explains. “I ultimately didn’t see the kids for months.”

as a unit. They grew even closer a year later when CONTINUED ON PG. 12 | uu |

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watermark’s rainbow family guide

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The reverend has since sought to

disenfranchised as a parent,” he

the globe to join the Hero-Shaws for

go overseas multiple times, providing

continues. “While I provided all of the

their big day.

depositions and testimony for a trial

typical things a parent does, when it

in Scotland. Thankfully “the law is

came to dealing with doctors, they

Tampa,” Jakob says. “My brother and

end when someone becomes legal.

very clear in that children have to be

couldn’t talk to me. That was painful.”

his wife who are in South Carolina.

Adoption ensured he is considered

Allan’s sister and her husband who

next of kin to his unmarried children

Allan and Jakob were required to

“My parents were there, they live in

educate others on the matter, noting that parental relationships don’t

returned to their habitual home,” Allan

Jakob notes he would have

says. “This was their home, so they had

adopted their children years ago

live in Australia and my cousin and her

along with his husband, a designation

to be returned here.”

had he been able, but circumstances

husband who are local were there.”

which provides a legal connection

required that they wait until they

They also virtually connected with

between the three, and extends to

of circumstances emphasizing

turned 18. While they no longer had

Allan’s mother afterwards.

their medical welfare and to his.

the importance of having a legal

contact with their mother, and she

“Today is the day we have hoped

connection between family members.

only had limited rights, the process

for, prayed for and dreamt of for many

it mattered to their family. “The kids

While it worked in their favor that time,

would have required that she

years,” Jakob shared via social media

have been calling the two of us their

the process had lingering effects.

voluntarily waive her parental ones.

that day. “Today the four of us sat

parents for so long,” Jakob says. “I

together in our home and attended

always felt that there was a caveat –

It was just one of a number

“There was quite a smear campaign

He first broached the subject when

More than anything else, however,

against us, where false accusations

the twins turned 17. “They were both

court via zoom. Today a judge affirmed

not from us, but from other people

were made,” Jakob says. “The kids were

totally on board with it,” he says. “In

legally what the kids had already

– and being constantly invalidated can wear you out.

told horrible things that weren’t true

“So even though they’re 19

about us. They were told that we were

now, they’re just teenagers,” he

a danger to them.

also muses. “They still need a lot

“Ultimately, all of that brought us

of parenting.”

closer together – but in that time, it

After all the family has been

was so traumatic for everybody,” he continues. “When they got home it

through, it’s clear that the

was clear that they did still want me

Hero-Shaws are more up to that

around, but all of us were just so

task than ever before. The fact

emotionally raw and shaken up, having

that Mima and Ruben opted to

to relearn how to be a family.”

legally change their last names to mirror their parents, which isn’t

Jakob officially moved in with Allan, Mima and Ruben a year later, and by

required for an adult adoption,

2017 the Hero-Shaws married. Allan

only confirms that.

“Looking back on the

was also awarded full parental rights, meaning that he no longer had to

abduction and the court, the

consult with his ex-wife concerning the

other side really tried to make

twins’ medical decisions.

a big deal about us being gay and me being trans,” Jakob says.

Despite the happy occasions,

“They tried to make it out that we

however, Jakob remained a selfdescribed “legal stranger” to his

fact, our daughter had already looked

children. “Stepparents have less

up how to do it and was planning on

rights than you think and I would

bringing it up to us.”

say same-sex couples, even more so,” he says.

proclaimed to be true long ago.

“Ruben is my son. Mima is my daughter,” he continued. “This has

were unfit to raise these kids. I actually needed reminding that we weren’t doing anything wrong.”

been true in our hearts for 8 years.

It’s a mentality that has since

proceed as quickly as possible, filing

Today is adoption day and now I am

informed the Hero-Shaws’ advice for

The family decided they wanted to on their 18th birthday in Dec. 2019. A

legally their father too. I am so grateful

Rainbow Families of all sorts. “We have

notes, but he points toward a medical

waiting process subsequently began,

for a husband who always welcomed

just as many rights as anyone else,”

emergency as just one example.

one only exacerbated by COVID-19.

me to share the title of father with

Jakob says. “Don’t fall into the idea that

him. I am so grateful for two kids who

somehow we’re less than as parents.”

That’s not officially the case, Jakob

“When we were at the hospital and

“When things started moving eight

one of us had been female, we could

months after the fact, there were still

claimed me as their dad long before

have said ‘we’re the parents’ and there

difficulties,” Allan says. “Although their

we got this legal recognition.

would be no questioning,” he asserts.

birth mother couldn’t do anything to

“But with two men standing there

prevent it, she still had to be notified.”

saying that we’re the parents, the first

The court required that they hire a

thing they asked is, ‘which one of us

private investigator to do so.

the real parent?’ That was really hard.

Once the adoption hearing was

“Today is a day that felt impossible,” he concluded. “Today is the best day!”

The family was met with widespread support, but found their motives were also questioned. A

finally scheduled, it was conducted

number of friends and other loved

there have been very few medical

virtually. In a silver lining, the process

ones alike questioned why adoption

emergencies while they were

allowed family members from across

mattered after the twins turned 18.

“We’ve been lucky because

still minors, but I have felt really

12

Photos courtesy of the Hero-Shaw family.

cindi@insurancehappiness.com

watermark’s rainbow family guide

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reading rainbow and teens to educate Books for kids, tweens BTQ community and celebrate the LG

jeremy williams

N

o matter their age, gender, how they dress, how they act or how they feel, all kids have one thing in common — they all ask a lot of questions.

What’s that? Who’s this? Why is something the way it is? They are all sponges trying to soak up knowledge anywhere they can but sometimes, as a parent or guardian, you don’t have all the answers. So what do you do? Give them a book.

It can sometimes be overwhelming trying to explain life to kids, especially when it comes to subjects of sexual orientation, gender identity and figuring out where they fit in. Well, we are here to help.

We have gathered a list of LGBTQ books — three for younger kids, three for tweens and three for teenagers — to get your reading list started and that cover a variety of LGBTQ topics including gender, families, pronouns, history, Pride, coming out and more. There’s some fiction, picture books, biographies, journals; certainly something for everyone no matter your child’s age, gender or how they identify.

Kids “I’m Not a Girl” (2020) Written by Maddox Lyons and Jessica Verdi, Illustrated by Dana Simpson Nobody seems to understand that Hannah is not a girl. His parents ask why he won’t wear the cute outfits they pick out. His friend thinks he must be a tomboy. His teacher insists he should be proud to be a girl. But a birthday wish, a new word and a stroke of courage might be just what Hannah needs to finally show the world who he really is.

“It Feels Good To Be Yourself” (2019) Written by Theresa Thorn, Illustrated by Noah Grigni

“All Kinds of Families” (2019) Written by Suzanne Lang, Illustrated by Max Lang Lots of nontraditional family structures are celebrated in this super-fun and super-accessible board book! Kids will love finding their own family represented, no matter if they have two moms, one grandpa or just a cousin named Doug. From the creative husband-wife team behind “Grumpy Monkey.”

CONTINUED ON PG. 18 | uu |

This straightforward exploration of gender identity will give children a fuller understanding of themselves and others. With child-friendly language and vibrant art, “It Feels Good to Be Yourself” provides young readers and parents alike with the vocabulary to discuss this important topic with sensitivity.

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Tweens

“George” (2017) Written by Alex Gino When people look at George, they think they see a boy. But she knows she’s not a boy. She knows she’s a girl. George thinks she’ll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their class play is going to be “Charlotte’s Web.” George really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte.

But the teacher says she can’t even try out for the part ... because she’s a boy. With the help of her best friend, Kelly, George comes up with a plan. Not just so she can be Charlotte – but so everyone can know who she is, once and for all. The unforgettable debut from Stonewall Award winner Alex Gino, “George” joins the Scholastic Gold line, which features award-winning and beloved novels.

“Queer Heroes: Meet 53 LGBTQ Heroes from Past and Present!” (2019) Written by Arabelle Sicardi, Illustrated by Sarah Tanat-Jones Discover the inspiring stories of these LGBTQ artists, writers, innovators, athletes and activists who have made great contributions to culture, from ancient times to present day.

Published to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, this extraordinary book shows children that anything is possible and is the perfect book for anyone who wants to learn more about a collection of inspiring figures in LGBTQ history.

“Free To Be Me: An LGBTQ+ Journal of Love, Pride and Finding Your Inner Rainbow” (2019) Written by Dom & Ink Every rainbow-colored page is packed with LGBTQ activities, advice and attitude. With spreads to color, scribble, design and glitter, you’ll meet dancing drag queens, rainbow donuts and the world’s sassiest LGBTQ+ dinosaur – Brett the Sassysaurus! Read quotes from real-life rainbow icons, find out how to throw your own Pride Party, and learn about the history of LGBTQ rights. Most importantly: celebrate being yourself and what makes YOU amazing!

Teenagers

“This Book is Gay” (2015) Written by Juno Dawson Inside you’ll find the answers to all the questions you ever wanted to ask, with topics like stereotypes, coming out as LGBTQ, where to meet people like you, how to flirt and much more. This candid and uncensored exploration of sexuality and what it’s like to grow up LGBTQ also includes real stories from people across the gender and sexual spectrums. You will be entertained. You will be informed. But most importantly, you will know that however you identify (or don’t) and whomever you love, you are exceptional and you matter.

“Queer: The Ultimate LGBT Guide For Teens” (2011) Written by Kathy Belge and Marke Bieschke, Illustrated by Christian Robinson Honest and engaging, “Queer” takes LGBTQ teens on an awesome and enlightening journey through the sometimes scary, sometimes silly and always fabulous world of queer life. With advice on coming out, navigating a queer social life, dealing with queerphobia, and having safe sex, “Queer” is a must-have for all teens who think they might be queer or know someone who is.

“The Little Book of Pride: The History, the People, the Parades” (2020) Written by Lewis Laney What began as a protest for LGBTQ rights following the Stonewall riots of 1969 in New York has grown to become a global celebration of LGBTQ culture. In the over 50 years since the original protest and what is now widely accepted to be the first Pride march – Christopher Street Liberation Day in 1970 – Pride events are now attended by millions each year, celebrating how far we’ve come, recognizing where we have to go, and highlighting important causes in the queer community. “The Little Book of Pride” proves that size definitely doesn’t matter by squeezing everything you need to know about Pride into 144 pages. Inside, you will find the history, the key people involved, the best Pride events around the world, inspirational quotes from famous queers, Pride facts and a fun Pride survival guide.

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The Gulfport Community Theater presents:

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Directed by Patrick Brafford, Birds of a Feather is a play about love. It’s the story of Roy and Silo, the two Central Park Zoo penguins who partnered, adopted an egg, hatched and raised a chick together.

Roy and Silo were the subject of a widely contested children’s book, And Tango Makes Three, that was temporarily one of the most banned books in America.

$20 Tickets | ONLY available online | GulfportCommunityPlayers.org watermark’s rainbow family guide

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MAZE

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mixed up

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Celebrating 30 Years of Service to LGBTQ Youth in Central Florida!

A Judgement-Free Safe Space for LGBTQ+ & Straight Allies (ages 13-23).

Social & recreational activities, support & mentoring, scholarships.

Orlando Youth Alliance www.OrlandoYouthAlliance.org 407-244-1222 Seminole Youth Alliance www.SeminoleYouthAlliance.org 407-244-1222 Lakeland Youth Alliance www.LakelandYouthAlliance.org info@LakelandYouthAlliance.org

FUNDED IN FULL OR IN PART BY ORANGE COUNTY GOVERNMENT, FL

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campus pride

rida and m some of Central Flo LGBTQ resources fro versities and colleges uni r ula pop st mo ’s Tampa Bay

ezri ruiz

F

rom campus life, cost, academics, housing, extracurriculars and simply the vibe, there’s a million and one factors to take into consideration when choosing the right college for you or your child. Along with these standard considerations when choosing a higher education institution, LGBTQ students need a campus that will support and affirm them as individuals.

Resources such as the Campus Pride

in feeling safe and supported enough

Index (CampusPrideIndex.org) can be a

to thrive in higher education. Check

great asset in you or your child’s college

out the community resources page in

search by providing a ranked list of higher-

this guide to find local organizations to

education institutions on their academics,

support you or your child during this

affordability and LGBTQ services, as

exciting and transitional phase of life.

well as providing firsthand testimonials from students.

Below are a selection of campus resources to keep in mind when

It’s important to note that colleges

choosing the right Central Florida- or

and universities do not exist in a vacuum,

Tampa Bay-area university or college.

and the city itself can be a major factor

Tampa Bay

Sarasota Ringling College of Art and Design (Ringling.edu)

Center for Diversity & Inclusion The Committee will work to identify ways for Ringling College to further embrace and share campus culture as one of inclusion and support for the diversity of all people within their campus community. This will be done through support of programming, communication, mentoring, modeling and education

The Pride Index ranked UCF as the top college for LGBTQ students in Florida. UCF has multiple organizations, clubs and resources dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community.

LGBTQ Services The mission of LGBTQ Services is to connect the diverse student population to opportunities, resources and each other to achieve the vision of a stronger, healthier and more equitable world for LGBTQ people and their allies.

Pride Commons Pride Commons is a place for UCF students who are looking for resources, community, a place to hang out or a quiet place to study.

Alliance Mentoring Program The Alliance Mentoring Program aims to match LGBTQ staff and faculty mentors with LGBTQ student mentees.

Lavender Council A student advisory board that serves as a liaison between students, faculty and staff and LGBTQ Services.

Multicultural Student Center (MSC) The MSC’s mission is to create a more inclusive and equitable campus environment that enriches the university experience through actively supporting diverse and intentional programming.

Pride Student Association Pride Student Association is committed to celebrating and unifying the LGBTQ community on the UCF campus.

Valencia College (ValenciaCollege.edu) Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) The Gay-Straight Alliance at Valencia exists to educate students about stereotyping and help them learn more about the LGBTQ spectrum.

Full Sail University (FullSail.edu) PRIDE Club PRIDE at Full Sail provides a safe space for LGBTQ students across degree programs and opportunities to connect with local resources.

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University of Tampa (UT) (UT.edu) UTampa Pride Provides a space and makes sure LGBTQ voices are heard. Hosts an annual campus Drag Show among other impactful programs.

University of Central Florida (ucf) (UCF.edu)

ily

University of South Florida (USF) (USF.edu) Office of Multicultural Affairs The Office of Multicultural Affairs coordinates educational, cultural and social programs to foster experiences which create interculturally mature global citizens who are prepared to thrive in diverse environments.

P.R.I.D.E. ALLIANCE Their mission is to help build up the LGBTQ community at USF and the surrounding Tampa area by educating, advocating and providing a safe space.

Queer and Trans People of Color Collective Queer and Trans People of Color Collective (QTPOCC) aims to empower, advocate for and support individuals of color who identify as: lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and/ or queer. QTPOCC accomplishes this through creating a safe space for cultivating alliances, leadership, and educational/networking opportunities.

Central Florida

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ROLLINS COLLEGE (Rollins.edu) Diversity Training Workshops Rollins’ Diversity Training Workshops are taught as one-day, facilitator-led programs designed to help members of the LGBTQ community work together in new and productive ways.

Embark The mission of Embark is to help students successfully acclimate into Rollins by facilitating a pre-orientation program for students of historically disenfranchised and underrepresented populations, including but not limited to those of racial and ethnic-minority background, religious minority, those having a disability, and those identifying as LGBTQ and any other identity.

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Orange County Regional History Center’s Adventures in History Summer Camp Orlando | June 1-Aug. 6 (TheHistoryCenter.org/Education/Summer-Camp-2021) History and fun collide at The History Center’s Adventures in History summer camp program. They provide a safe and fun learning environment that combines cool historic facts with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) content through hands-on activities.

Campers will discover the history that surrounds all of us every day from learning about Frontier Florida to Theme Park Thrills and more. Camp classes are available for ages 6-8 and ages 9-11.

Orlando Science Center’s STEM Summer Camps

W

hen you hear the words “summer camp” you probably think of those movies about kids taking a bus to a camp built around a lake where they sleep in cabins, play tug of war and tell scary ghost stories around a campfire, but camp can actually be so much more than that.

We have gathered information

There are summer camps devoted to dance, theater,

on a handful of LGBTQ-inclusive

science, history, art and so much

summer camps throughout Central

more. Going to summer camp,

Florida and Tampa Bay that can

learning new skills and making

help give your LGBTQ kids the best

lifelong friends can mean so

summer ever!

More details, age restrictions,

much to an LGBTQ kid who is trying to figure out who they are,

pricing and safety guidelines are

what they like to do and how

available on each camp’s website.

they like to express themselves.

You can find each camp’s website in the information below.

Central Florida Community Arts Summer Camps Orlando | June 7-Aug. 6 (CFCArts.com) Central Florida Community Arts offers a variety of weekly summer camps to children and teens. From arts camps for preschool children to musical theatre intensives for teens, these camps are designed to meet the students where they are. A fun, encouraging environment allows youth to explore the performing arts, work with talented, professional directors and choreographers, make new friends and grow as a performer. CFCArts 2021 summer camps will take place at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Orlando Ballet Summer Intensive 2021 Orlando | June 14 - 25 (2-week camp), June 28-July 30 (5-week camp), July 12-23 (virtual 2-week) (OrlandoBallet.org/Education-Training/Senior-Summer-Intensive)

The Orlando Ballet School’s Summer Intensive Programs are for intermediate to advanced students ages 11 and up. The program places emphasis on ballet technique training while incorporating supplementary classes in character, pointe, variations, modern, jazz, men’s, partnering and nutrition. OBS has also created a Virtual Summer Intensive for students ages 11+ to support those impacted by the global pandemic.

Orlando |May 26-Aug. 9 (OSC.org/Learn/Summer-Camps) Orlando Science Center (OSC) offers hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Summer Camps for children entering preschool through 9th grade. In an age dependent on innovation and creativity, they provide a safe, fun, nurturing environment that promotes hands-on learning while fostering excitement in STEM. OSC’s program encourages 21st Century skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and communication necessary for children to thrive. In an age dependent on innovation and creativity, their programs provide children with a platform for cultivating their interests while working collaboratively with their peers to develop lifelong skills that will enrich their lives and future community.

1- and 3-day camp options are available for K-4th graders.

Carrollwood Cultural Center Summer Camps Tampa | June 7-Aug. 6 (CarrollWoodCenter.org/Camp-Activities) Through art, music, dance and drama campers ages 4-10 will explore a different theme each week all in a fun and creative environment. In Carrollwood’s new youth program for ages 11-13, campers will use a theme as inspiration for developing their very own staged production.

Each three-week session will have students audition, write, rehearse and perform a full theatrical production under the instruction of working professionals. Get ready for a summer loaded with friends and memories.

Great Exploration Summer Camp St. Petersburg | June 10-Aug. 10 (GreatEx.org/Camps) Great Explorations offers an educational camp experience for your first, second and third graders. Their days will be filled with experiments, arts, field trips and guest presentations from local experts in the particular field for that week. Carefully crafted programming will encourage imagination, following Great Explorations’ mission to stimulate learning through creativity and play. Children will explore a new theme each week that include learning about diversity inclusion, sea life, the outdoors and more.

Dunedin Fine Arts Center’s Art Academy Summer Camp Dunedin | June 14-Aug. 6 (DFAC.org/Kids-Corner/Summer-Camp) Dunedin Fine Arts Center’s (DFAC) Art Academy Summer Camp offers kids and teens the opportunity to explore the budding artist inside of them with a variety of camps based around painting, murals, performance art, technology and more. With seven different summer camps to choose from, campers have the choice to mix and match throughout the eight weeks giving each camper their own unique experience.

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Fine Art | Portrait | Wedding | Commercial www.DylanToddPhotography.com 727-310-1212

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FINDING COMMUNITY National, Statewide and

ces

Local LGBTQ Resour

ryan williams-jent

A

ccording to The Williams Institute, 4.5% of Americans identify as LGBTQ. In Florida, that number is even higher at 4.6% of the population – representing parents, children, siblings and everyone in-between.

Whether you identify as LGBTQ, you’re the loved one of someone who does or even both, you’re an important part of an ever-expanding community. To help you navigate what that means we’ve put together this list of resources serving the LGBTQ community on the national, statewide and local levels. It’s what families do.

View our Business Directory on page 30 for even more.

National & Statewide Resources

Local Resources

Bisexual Resource Center (BRC)

ALSO Youth

617-424-9595, BiResource.net BRC builds bridges within the LGBTQ and ally communities while fostering bi-supportive social spaces..

Equality Florida

813-870-3735, EQFL.org Equality Florida is the state’s largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for Florida’s LGBTQ community.

GLAAD

GLAAD.org GLAAD is the nation’s largest LGBTQ-focused media organization.

GLSEN

212-727-0135, GLSEN.org GLSEN is an education organization working to end LGBTQ discrimination and to prompt inclusion in K-12 schools.

Human Rights Campaign (HRC)

202-628-4160, HRC.org HRC is the nation’s largest national LGBTQ civil rights organization which envisions a world where LGBTQ people are ensured of their basic equal rights.

National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE)

202-642-4542, TransEquality.org The NCTE is the leading social justice advocacy organization winning lifesaving change for transgender people.

National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR)

415-392-8442, NCLRights.orgThe NCLR is the leading organization committed to advancing the civil and human rights of LGBTQ people and their families through litigation, legislation, policy, and public education.

National LGBTQ Task Force

202-393-5177, TheTaskForce.org The National LGBTQ Task Force is the social justice advocacy organization working to advance full freedom and equality for LGBTQ people.

Trevor Project, The

866-488-7386, TheTrevorProject.org The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth under 25.

SAGE

212-741-2247, SAGEUSA.org SAGE is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ older adults.

Williams Institute, The

310-267-4382, WilliamsInstitute.Law.UCLA.edu The Williams Institute is the leading research center on sexual orientation and gender identity.

941-951-2576, ALSOYouth.org ALSO Youth provides peer support services, educational programs, advocacy and referrals for LGBTQ youth ages 13 to 21, their families, friends and the community at large.

Empath Partners in Care (EPIC)

727-328-3260, MyEPIC.org EPIC supports those challenged by chronic and advanced illness as a member of Empath Health, with offices in Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Tampa.

Lakeland Youth Alliance (LYA)

LakelandYouthAlliance.org LYA provides a safe space for Lakeland’s LGBTQ youth to gather, talk about issues and concerns that are important in their lives and also meet others.

LGBT+ Center Kissimmee

407-201-2544, TheCenterOrlando.org/Homepage-Kissimmee The Center promotes and empowers Kissimmee’s LGBTQ community and its allies through information, education, advocacy and support.

LGBT+ Center Orlando

407-228-8272, TheCenterOrlando.org The Center promotes and empower Orlando’s LGBTQ community and its allies through information, education, advocacy and support.

Metro Inclusive Health

727-321-3854, MetroTampaBay.org Metro Inclusive Health provides quality health and wellness services to all, with offices in Clearwater, New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa.

Orlando Youth Alliance (OYA)

407-244-1222, Orlando Youth Alliance.org OYA provides a safe space for Orlando’s LGBTQ youth to gather, talk about issues and concerns that are important in their lives and also meet others.

PFLAG Chapters

PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to uniting LGBTQ people and their allies, with chapters throughout Central Florida and Tampa Bay. Dunedin: 727-279-0449, PFLAGDunedin.org; Orlando: 321-286-5350, PFLAGOrlando.org; Riverview: 813-833-7972, PFLAG.org/Chapter/ PFLAG-Riverview; Sarasota: 641-270-2022, PFLAGSarasota.org; St. Petersburg: 727-490-9044, PFLAGStPete.org; Tampa: 813-5355239, PFLAGTampa.org; Wesley Chapel/Pasco: 443-606-0993, PFLAGWCPasco.org

Seminole Youth Alliance (SYA) 407-244-1222, SeminoleYouthAlliance.org SYA provides a safe space for Seminole’s LGBTQ youth to gather, talk about issues and concerns that are important in their lives and also meet others.

Zebra Coalition 407-228-1446, ZebraCoalition.org Zebra Coalition is Central Florida’s network of organizations providing services to LGBTQ youth ages 13-24.

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Business Directory Arts & Entertainment

Events

Carrollwood Cultural Center

Kids Fringe

Great Explorations

Gulfport Players

Family Law

Museum Of Illusions Orlando

813-269-1310 CarrollwoodCenter.org

727-322-0316 GulfportCommunityPlayers.org Attractions

Dezerland Park

321-754-1700 DezerlandPark.com

LaserOps Extreme Gaming Arcade 813-443-6509 LaserOps.com Camps

Central Florida Community Arts 407-937-1800 CFCArts.com

OrlandoFringe.org/KidsFringe

Thomas Law Firm, PLLC

407-717-9990 ThomasLawImHere.com

Orlando Museum of Art

Cryos International Sperm and Egg Bank

Orlando Science Center

321-800-2922 ext. 1650 26Health.org

407-203-1175 CryosInternational.com

Embrace Families

321-441-2060 EmbraceFamilies.org Food & Drinks

Orlando Ballet School

727-369-9969 TheLibraryStPete.com

727-298-3322 DFAC.org

Community Youth Organizations

ALSO Youth

941-951-2576 ALSOYouth.org

Lakeland Youth Alliance

The Library

Health & Wellness

26Health

321-800-2922 26Health.org

Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital 727-898-7451 HopkinsAllChildrens.org

Planned Parenthood

PlannedParenthood.org

LakelandYouthAlliance.org

Orlando Youth Alliance

407-244-1222 OrlandoYouthAlliance.org

Insurance Happiness

Cindi@InsuranceHappiness.com InsuranceHappiness.com

407-244-1222 OrlandoYouthAlliance.org

Libraries

Zebra Coalition

407-835-7323 OCLS.info

Orange County Library System

Museum & Gallaries Education

Early Learning Coalition of Orange County 407-841-6607 ELCOfOrangeCounty.org

407-896-4231 OMArt.org

407-514-2000 OSC.org

Photography Services:

Dylan Todd Photography

727-310-1212 DylanToddPhotography.com

Rachel Joan Photography

813-421-1204 RachelJoanPhotography.com

Real Estate:

Caitlin Jones Real Estate 813-530-5687 TheJonesHomeTeam.com

Scott Benson – Green House Realty 407-474-0724 GreenHouseRealty.com

Tabi Deas, Realtor

813-758-9971 ShortsAndFlipFlopsWelcome.com

Insurance

Seminole Youth Alliance

407-228-1446 ZebraYouth.org

407-836-8500 TheHistoryCenter.org

26Health

407-836-8500 TheHistoryCenter.org

The Dunedin Fine Arts Center

833-541-0992 Orlando.MuseumOfIllusions.us

Orange County Regional History Center Family Planning: Adpotion, Cyro Bank, Foster Services

Orange County Regional History Center

407-426-1733 OrlandoBallet.org

727-821-8992 GreatEx.org

Art and History Museums-Maitland 407- 539-2181 ArtAndHistory.org

Cornell Fine Arts Museum 407-646-2526 Rollins.edu/CFAM

Religious Services

St. Lukes United Methodist Church 407-876-4991 St.Lukes.org Retail

City Furniture

CityFurniture.com

Tyrone Frame and Mirror 727-344-1000 TyroneFrame.com

TRAVEL AND TOURISM

I-Drive Resort Area IDrivePlaycation.com

Orlando International Airport / MCO 407-825-2001 OrlandoAirports.com

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