PRIDE CENTER
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
FEBRUARY 2025
Dear Community,
We find ourselves in a moment that demands clarity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the fight for dignity and justice. The past few weeks, months—hell, even the past decade—have been exhausting, each day bringing a new round of political attacks, executive orders, and institutional failures that remind us just how fragile progress can feel. And yet, we are still here. Out here. Proud here.
At the Pride Center of the Capital Region, we are committed to being a beacon in this storm. We will not cower in confusion, nor will we allow fear to dictate the course of our movement. We know this fight is not new—our elders walked this road before us. They fought for every inch of the legal protections we now have in New York State, and we will not surrender those rights willingly; we will not surrender those rights at all.
It is important that we remind ourselves and each other of this: New York State law is on our side. We are protected under the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA), the Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act (SONDA), and now, the Equal Rights Amendment—which three out of every four New Yorkers voted for, enshrining protections into our state constitution. The foundation is there. The law is there. But the work of ensuring those protections are upheld falls on us.
We are already seeing a troubling pattern emerge—individual actors, from school board members to marriage court judges, deciding to “obey in advance” to the rhetoric and ideology of a federal administration that does not recognize our existence. These local decisions, whether in classrooms, hospitals, or housing systems, create real harm. They are not simply political maneuvers; they are attempts to erase us, to make us invisible again.
LETTER FROM:
THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Pride Center remains steadfast in our mission—to provide resources, education, and advocacy for every LGBTQ+ person in our community. We are not dependent on federal funding, and our work continues because of you—our community members, supporters, and allies.
Now is the time to show up. If you are reading this, consider this your call to action:
Our community has always been a radical act of existence. We have survived despite centuries of being treated like criminals, deviants, mentally unfit and intentional, widespread erasure. And we will continue to survive—and thrive—because we refuse to disappear.
The goal of these executive orders and right-wing talking points is to make us feel powerless, to make us accept harm as inevitable. But we have the tools, the policies, and the legal framework to fight back—and we must use them.
We do not shrink. We do not disappear. We do not obey in advance.
With Pride and with you all,
Nathaniel Gray, MSW
Executive Director
Pride Center of the Capital Region
Now is the time to show up. If you are reading this, consider this your call to action:
- Educate yourself on your rights. Knowledge is power, and we will not allow misinformation or fear to dictate how we move through this world.
- Report discrimination. If you experience or witness discrimination, say something. File a complaint. Document it. Every report adds to the record, and silence enables erasure.
- Support your community. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or simply holding space for each other, our strength is in our unity.
Our community has always been a radical act of existence. We have survived despite centuries of being treated like criminals, deviants, mentally unfit and intentional, widespread erasure. And we will continue to survive—and thrive—because we refuse to disappear.
The goal of these executive orders and right-wing talking points is to make us feel powerless, to make us accept harm as inevitable. But we have the tools, the policies, and the legal framework to fight back—and we must use them.
We do not shrink. We do not disappear. We do not obey in advance.
With Pride and with you all,
Nathaniel Gray, MSW
Executive Director
Pride Center of the Capital Region
But let’s be clear: We will not be erased. We will not be silent. And we will not obey in advance.
On March 8, we take to the streets of Albany to say it loud and clear: We are out here. We are proud here. And we will not be erased. The following Tuesday, March 11th, we will take that discussion to our leaders at the Capitol to advocate for policies that protect and support the queer community of Upstate New York.
MARCH 8: UPSTATE QUEER VISIBILITY MARCH
Date: Friday, March 8, 2024
Meeting Time: 10:00 AM
March Begins: 11:00 AM
Rally and Speeches: 11:30 AM at the New York State Capitol
Location: Gathering in Pride Festival grounds in Washington Park, Albany, NY
We value the advocacy of our statewide organizations, however the specific experiences and needs of rural and suburban queer folks aren’t always front and center in that work. We want to bolster the statewide efforts with voices from our own community, from people who live here.
This march is about visibility and urgency—because visibility is a form of resistance.
We march because when queer people are seen, we are harder to erase.
We march because New York’s laws only work if they are enforced everywhere in the state.
We march because when people think LGBTQ+ issues are "settled," they stop fighting for us.
What to Expect:
There is no registration required—just show up, bring your voice, and stand with us.
MARCH 11: LGBTQIA+ ADVOCACY DAY AT THE STATE CAPITOL
Date: Monday, March 11, 2024
Time: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY
Registration Required: Register here (More details will be provided to those who register)
Visibility is only the first step—policy change is the next. Even if you can’t make it to Advocacy Day, please complete the registration form to provide feedback on the policies and issues that you want us to bring up!
On March 11, we take the fight directly to the legislators who control the future of LGBTQ+ protections in New York.
What to Expect:
Many lawmakers want to stand with us, but they need public pressure to act. If they don’t hear from us, they will only hear from those trying to roll back our rights.
This is your chance to sit across from the people who make the laws and tell them directly: Queer and trans Upstate New Yorkers will not be ignored.
MARCH 8: UPSTATE QUEER VISIBILITY MARCH
Date: Friday, March 8, 2024
Meeting Time: 10:00 AM
March Begins: 11:00 AM
Rally and Speeches: 11:30 AM at the New York State Capitol
Location: Gathering in Pride Festival grounds in Washington Park, Albany, NY
We value the advocacy of our statewide organizations, however the specific experiences and needs of rural and suburban queer folks aren’t always front and center in that work. We want to bolster the statewide efforts with voices from our own community, from people who live here.
This march is about visibility and urgency—because visibility is a form of resistance.
We march because when queer people are seen, we are harder to erase.
We march because New York’s laws only work if they are enforced everywhere in the state.
We march because when people think LGBTQ+ issues are "settled," they stop fighting for us.
What to Expect:
- A gathering in Washington Park at 10:00 AM where community members will connect and prepare.
- A march through Albany, beginning at 11:00 AM, making our presence known.
- A rally at 11:30 AM on the Capitol steps, featuring speakers who will highlight the urgency of this moment and the action we must take.
There is no registration required—just show up, bring your voice, and stand with us.
MARCH 11: LGBTQIA+ ADVOCACY DAY AT THE STATE CAPITOL
Date: Monday, March 11, 2024
Time: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY
Registration Required: Register here (More details will be provided to those who register)
Visibility is only the first step—policy change is the next. Even if you can’t make it to Advocacy Day, please complete the registration form to provide feedback on the policies and issues that you want us to bring up!
On March 11, we take the fight directly to the legislators who control the future of LGBTQ+ protections in New York.
What to Expect:
- Meetings with state lawmakers to discuss the realities LGBTQ+ New Yorkers face.
- Policy briefings on the current state of legal protections and the gaps that must be addressed.
- A coordinated call to action for increased accountability and enforcement of LGBTQ+ rights in New York.
Many lawmakers want to stand with us, but they need public pressure to act. If they don’t hear from us, they will only hear from those trying to roll back our rights.
This is your chance to sit across from the people who make the laws and tell them directly: Queer and trans Upstate New Yorkers will not be ignored.
OUT HERE, PROUD HERE—THE URGENCY OF
FEATURE STORY:
QUEER ADVOCACY IN UPSTATE NEW YORK
In the face of political uncertainty, misinformation, and targeted rollbacks of federal protections, it is critical that every LGBTQ+ New Yorker understands their rights. Laws were not passed as mere symbols—they were enacted to be enforced, and we cannot allow fear, ignorance, or bad actors to strip us of what we have already won.
While the federal government can create policies that impact national programs like Social Security, Medicare, the VA, and HUD, they cannot undo New York State laws or its constitution. The Equal Rights Amendment, passed by 75% of voters in the last election, enshrines protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, women, and marginalized communities directly into our state’s legal framework.
Below are several areas of consideration when trying to stay informed amid the legal confusion due to recent and ongoing federal changes that may or may not have an impact on New Yorkers’ rights and documentation. This is strictly informative and not legal advice. It is up-to-date as of the publication of this newsletter, February 11th, 2025.
STATE VS. FEDERAL PROTECTIONS: WHAT TO KNOW
New York State operates under a separate legal framework from the federal government, meaning:
Where Federal Policy Interferes:
We must be realistic about where the executive orders and federal-level discrimination are likely to cause the most harm:
The biggest concern is that bad actors—individual TSA agents, Amtrak conductors, or federal employees—could choose to enforce federal policies over New York’s protections.
What You Can Do:
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR RIGHTS ARE VIOLATED
It should not take personal harm and suffering for a person to access the protections they are entitled to. And yet, that is the reality of our system—we have laws, but they require individuals to file complaints, report violations, and demand action.
If you experience discrimination, take these steps:
1. Document Everything
While the federal government can create policies that impact national programs like Social Security, Medicare, the VA, and HUD, they cannot undo New York State laws or its constitution. The Equal Rights Amendment, passed by 75% of voters in the last election, enshrines protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, women, and marginalized communities directly into our state’s legal framework.
Below are several areas of consideration when trying to stay informed amid the legal confusion due to recent and ongoing federal changes that may or may not have an impact on New Yorkers’ rights and documentation. This is strictly informative and not legal advice. It is up-to-date as of the publication of this newsletter, February 11th, 2025.
STATE VS. FEDERAL PROTECTIONS: WHAT TO KNOW
New York State operates under a separate legal framework from the federal government, meaning:
- LGBTQ+ protections are written into New York law, and the state has the power to uphold them, even if the federal government seeks to ignore them.
- Your right to gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation is protected under the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act (GENDA) and the Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act (SONDA).
- Your right to access gender-affirming care is still protected under New York law, despite federal policies aiming to remove it from federally funded programs.
- Your right to a safe and affirming school environment is the law. The Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) requires that schools protect LGBTQ+ students from harassment and discrimination, regardless of what federal officials or school boards try to claim.
Where Federal Policy Interferes:
We must be realistic about where the executive orders and federal-level discrimination are likely to cause the most harm:
- Medicare & Social Security – Programs fully controlled by the federal government, meaning gender-affirming care and documentation updates could face challenges.
- Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits – Trans veterans could face obstacles accessing care.
- HUD & Federally Funded Housing – Protections for trans people in federally funded shelters or housing programs are at risk.
- Interstate Travel & Federal Spaces – If your state documentation (driver’s license, state ID) has an “X” marker or does not align with federal documents (passport, SSA records), you could face increased scrutiny or denial of services in:
- Airports & TSA Screenings – TSA follows federal rules, and agents are not required to recognize nonbinary gender markers. Some trans travelers have already reported increased scrutiny and invasive searches.
- Amtrak & Interstate Train Travel – While New York train stations fall under state law, once on an Amtrak train, you are in a federally regulated space.
- Federal Courthouses, Military Bases, and Federal Buildings – These spaces are not bound by New York State protections, meaning discrimination claims may not apply in the same way they do in state-governed spaces.
The biggest concern is that bad actors—individual TSA agents, Amtrak conductors, or federal employees—could choose to enforce federal policies over New York’s protections.
What You Can Do:
- Ensure that your identification documents match wherever possible. If your passport, state ID, and Social Security records have discrepancies, you may be more likely to face questions or delays.
- Be prepared for extra scrutiny in travel and federal services. If an agent challenges your identity, stay calm, document the incident, and report it if necessary.
- Know that discrimination in federal spaces may not have the same legal recourse as in New York. This is frustrating, but being aware of it can help you prepare for interactions where your rights might be challenged.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR RIGHTS ARE VIOLATED
It should not take personal harm and suffering for a person to access the protections they are entitled to. And yet, that is the reality of our system—we have laws, but they require individuals to file complaints, report violations, and demand action.
If you experience discrimination, take these steps:
1. Document Everything
- Keep records of incidents, including dates, locations, names of individuals involved, and any written or digital communication.
- Take screenshots of emails, social media posts, or written policies that support your case.
- File a complaint with DHR if you experience discrimination based on gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation (or any other protected status in New York State)
- You must file the complaint yourself—someone else cannot file on your behalf unless a systemic investigation is initiated.
- The more reports that document a pattern of discrimination, the stronger the case for action.
- Every public school in New York must have a DASA coordinator who handles reports of harassment and discrimination.
- If you or your child experience misgendering, outing, denial of restroom access, or harassment, file a DASA complaint immediately.
- If a school refuses to act, escalate the complaint to the New York State Education Department and the Attorney General’s office.
- The Hate & Bias Prevention Unit collects reports of discrimination even if you don’t want to file a formal complaint. You can report by calling 1-844-662-4283
- Data from the hotline is used to track patterns of discrimination across New York State.
- Your report could be the evidence needed for systemic action—even if no immediate legal case is pursued.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS – PROTECTIONS FOR
NEW & NOTEWORTHY:
LGBTQIA+ NEW YORKERS
Healthcare has always been a battleground for LGBTQ+ rights. Every advance we’ve made—every policy that has secured access to gender-affirming care, HIV treatment, and competent providers—has been fought for tooth and nail. And now, as federal policies shift, we find ourselves once again in a position where we must be ready to defend our access to care.
The reality is this: New York State law still protects LGBTQ+ healthcare. But federal programs do not operate under state law. Medicare, Social Security benefits, the VA, and HUD-funded housing programs are all federal systems, and the latest executive orders create the possibility of targeted restrictions that could put healthcare access at risk for thousands of queer and trans New Yorkers.
We need to be prepared. We need to know our rights, understand where we are protected, and anticipate where barriers may arise.
MEDICARE VS. MEDICAID: WHAT LGBTQIA+ NEW YORKERS NEED TO KNOW
New York’s Medicaid system is largely state-funded, meaning that gender-affirming care, PrEP, HIV treatment, and other essential services remain covered despite federal attacks on LGBTQ+ healthcare.
Medicare, however, is a federal system. Any rollback at the federal level could impact trans seniors, disabled queer individuals, and anyone relying on federally funded care.
Key Facts:
What You Can Do:
MENTAL HEALTH: THE COST OF VISIBILITY & ACTION
This is a hard time. For many of us, activism is not optional—it is survival. But the emotional toll of relentless attacks on our rights, the constant need to fight for dignity, and the uncertainty of what comes next can lead to burnout, anxiety, and despair.
We must take care of ourselves and each other.
STAY VISIBLE – HOWEVER YOU CAN
Not everyone can march. Not everyone can attend legislative meetings. But everyone can do something.
Action Step: Find a way to stay visible and engaged, even in small ways. Our collective presence is our greatest strength.
DIGITAL SAFETY & SECURITY: PROTECTING YOURSELF ONLINE & BEYOND
In a time of increasing threats against the queer community, protecting our digital presence is just as crucial as knowing our legal rights. Hate groups and bad actors actively monitor online spaces to target LGBTQ+ individuals and organizations. Here are key steps to safeguard yourself and your community:
While visibility is powerful, our safety comes first. Take steps to protect yourself so we can continue resisting, organizing, and thriving together.
The reality is this: New York State law still protects LGBTQ+ healthcare. But federal programs do not operate under state law. Medicare, Social Security benefits, the VA, and HUD-funded housing programs are all federal systems, and the latest executive orders create the possibility of targeted restrictions that could put healthcare access at risk for thousands of queer and trans New Yorkers.
We need to be prepared. We need to know our rights, understand where we are protected, and anticipate where barriers may arise.
MEDICARE VS. MEDICAID: WHAT LGBTQIA+ NEW YORKERS NEED TO KNOW
New York’s Medicaid system is largely state-funded, meaning that gender-affirming care, PrEP, HIV treatment, and other essential services remain covered despite federal attacks on LGBTQ+ healthcare.
Medicare, however, is a federal system. Any rollback at the federal level could impact trans seniors, disabled queer individuals, and anyone relying on federally funded care.
Key Facts:
- Medicaid in New York covers gender-affirming care and will continue to do so under state law.
- Medicare is subject to federal policy changes, meaning that trans-related care could face new restrictions.
- VA healthcare services are fully federally funded, which means access to care for trans veterans is at immediate risk.
What You Can Do:
- If you rely on Medicare, stay informed. Policy challenges may take time to implement, but now is the time to talk with providers and advocacy organizations about options.
- If you are a veteran receiving VA healthcare, reach out to LGBTQ+-friendly providers to discuss alternative care options should restrictions arise.
- If you rely on Medicaid, nothing has changed—your care is still protected. But we must remain vigilant to ensure state protections remain strong.
MENTAL HEALTH: THE COST OF VISIBILITY & ACTION
This is a hard time. For many of us, activism is not optional—it is survival. But the emotional toll of relentless attacks on our rights, the constant need to fight for dignity, and the uncertainty of what comes next can lead to burnout, anxiety, and despair.
We must take care of ourselves and each other.
- If you are feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. The weight of advocacy and survival should never be carried alone. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 988
- If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, please reach out. The Pride Center of the Capital Region offers free mental health services, with therapists who understand the unique challenges of being LGBTQ+ in this moment.
- If you need community, we are here. There is power in being together, in sharing space, in knowing that you are not alone in this fight.
STAY VISIBLE – HOWEVER YOU CAN
Not everyone can march. Not everyone can attend legislative meetings. But everyone can do something.
- Wear a Pride pin. Display a flag. Refuse to disappear.
- Support queer businesses. Donate to local advocacy groups. Share information.
- Make your presence known in whatever way is sustainable for you.
Action Step: Find a way to stay visible and engaged, even in small ways. Our collective presence is our greatest strength.
DIGITAL SAFETY & SECURITY: PROTECTING YOURSELF ONLINE & BEYOND
In a time of increasing threats against the queer community, protecting our digital presence is just as crucial as knowing our legal rights. Hate groups and bad actors actively monitor online spaces to target LGBTQ+ individuals and organizations. Here are key steps to safeguard yourself and your community:
- Use Encrypted Messaging Apps – Platforms like Signal offer end-to-end encryption for private communication. Avoid discussing sensitive matters on Facebook Messenger, Instagram DMs, or WhatsApp, which is less secure.
- Strengthen Privacy Settings – Review and tighten your privacy settings on social media and email accounts. Limit who can see your posts, avoid tagging locations in real-time, and regularly update passwords.
- Beware of Doxxing & Online Harassment – If someone leaks your private information online (doxxing), report it immediately. Remove personal details from public databases, and consider using a VPN to protect your IP address.
- Verify Before You Share – Misinformation spreads quickly. Be cautious about engaging with suspicious accounts, and verify sources before amplifying news that could cause panic or misinformation.
- Report Hate & Threats – If you receive threats, document everything with screenshots and report them to platform moderators, law enforcement, and the New York Division of Human Rights if applicable.
- Community Defense – Organize safe online spaces on platforms like Discord (with invite-only access) or Slack to connect securely without external interference.
While visibility is powerful, our safety comes first. Take steps to protect yourself so we can continue resisting, organizing, and thriving together.
HEALTHCARE & WELLBEING – ACCESSING
NEW & NOTEWORTHY:
CARE AMID POLICY CHANGES
Every attack on our rights is designed to make us feel small, to make us retreat, to make us invisible. But we know the truth: We are here, we are many, and we are not going anywhere.
In moments like this, the most powerful thing we can do is stay engaged, support each other, and keep showing up.
STAY INFORMED – SIGN UP FOR UPDATES
Knowledge is power, and staying informed is one of the best ways to fight back. As federal policies shift and challenges emerge, we are committed to keeping our community updated with accurate, relevant information about our rights, advocacy efforts, and ways to take action.
Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates directly in your inbox, including:
➡ Subscribe to the Pride Center Newsletter
You can also follow us on social media to stay engaged in real time:
📍 Facebook: @CapitalPrideCenter1
📍 Instagram: @CapitalPrideCenter
We must remain connected, informed, and ready to mobilize when needed.
SUPPORT THE WORK – DONATE TO THE PRIDE CENTER
We are seeing firsthand how federal funding is being weaponized against LGBTQ+ communities. Organizations that rely on federal grants are already facing cuts, and the threat to funding will only grow as attacks on our rights escalate.
Fortunately, the Pride Center of the Capital Region is funded primarily by our community. This independence allows us to continue providing free mental health services, youth programs, senior support, and critical advocacy work—no matter what happens at the federal level.
But we need your help.
🌈 Every donation, no matter the size, helps us remain strong and independent.
🌈 A monthly donation, even at a small level, provides stability to continue our work.
🌈 Your support directly funds programs that keep LGBTQ+ people safe, connected, and empowered.
➡ Make a Donation Today
Together, we ensure that our community has the resources it needs, regardless of the political landscape.
FIND YOUR PEOPLE – VOLUNTEER & BUILD COMMUNITY
The Pride Center is more than an advocacy organization—it is a home, a gathering place, and a space where we build connections that sustain us.
If you are looking for ways to get involved, we have volunteer opportunities across a wide range of programs, including:
➡ Sign Up to Volunteer
This is how we resist—by showing up, by building each other up, and by creating a world where LGBTQ+ people can thrive.
PRIDE SEASON IS COMING – JOIN US!
Despite everything happening, we refuse to let fear steal our joy. We have an incredible season of Pride events planned, and we cannot wait to celebrate, connect, and take up space together.
🌈 Mark your calendars—Pride events are coming! From the Pride Parade and Festival on June 8th to community gatherings, social events, and advocacy programs, this season will be one of celebration and resistance.
Stay tuned for the full schedule, and let’s make this year’s Pride our biggest, boldest, and most defiant yet.
In moments like this, the most powerful thing we can do is stay engaged, support each other, and keep showing up.
STAY INFORMED – SIGN UP FOR UPDATES
Knowledge is power, and staying informed is one of the best ways to fight back. As federal policies shift and challenges emerge, we are committed to keeping our community updated with accurate, relevant information about our rights, advocacy efforts, and ways to take action.
Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates directly in your inbox, including:
- Breaking news on policy changes affecting the LGBTQ+ community.
- Advocacy opportunities and urgent action items.
- Community events, Pride season updates, and ways to stay connected.
➡ Subscribe to the Pride Center Newsletter
You can also follow us on social media to stay engaged in real time:
📍 Facebook: @CapitalPrideCenter1
📍 Instagram: @CapitalPrideCenter
We must remain connected, informed, and ready to mobilize when needed.
SUPPORT THE WORK – DONATE TO THE PRIDE CENTER
We are seeing firsthand how federal funding is being weaponized against LGBTQ+ communities. Organizations that rely on federal grants are already facing cuts, and the threat to funding will only grow as attacks on our rights escalate.
Fortunately, the Pride Center of the Capital Region is funded primarily by our community. This independence allows us to continue providing free mental health services, youth programs, senior support, and critical advocacy work—no matter what happens at the federal level.
But we need your help.
🌈 Every donation, no matter the size, helps us remain strong and independent.
🌈 A monthly donation, even at a small level, provides stability to continue our work.
🌈 Your support directly funds programs that keep LGBTQ+ people safe, connected, and empowered.
➡ Make a Donation Today
Together, we ensure that our community has the resources it needs, regardless of the political landscape.
FIND YOUR PEOPLE – VOLUNTEER & BUILD COMMUNITY
The Pride Center is more than an advocacy organization—it is a home, a gathering place, and a space where we build connections that sustain us.
If you are looking for ways to get involved, we have volunteer opportunities across a wide range of programs, including:
- Event support—helping with Pride celebrations, community gatherings, and outreach efforts.
- Youth and senior programming—creating welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ people across generations.
- Community organizing—advocating for our rights at the local and state level.
➡ Sign Up to Volunteer
This is how we resist—by showing up, by building each other up, and by creating a world where LGBTQ+ people can thrive.
PRIDE SEASON IS COMING – JOIN US!
Despite everything happening, we refuse to let fear steal our joy. We have an incredible season of Pride events planned, and we cannot wait to celebrate, connect, and take up space together.
🌈 Mark your calendars—Pride events are coming! From the Pride Parade and Festival on June 8th to community gatherings, social events, and advocacy programs, this season will be one of celebration and resistance.
Stay tuned for the full schedule, and let’s make this year’s Pride our biggest, boldest, and most defiant yet.
TAKE ACTION – STAY INFORMED, SUPPORT
NEW & NOTEWORTHY:
THE WORK, AND BUILD COMMUNITY
VIEW OUR EVENT CALENDAR
We've moved our event notifications to their very own weekly newsletter.
Check your inbox every Monday!
Check your inbox every Monday!
LOOKING FOR EVENTS?
Visit our online calendar for the most up to date information on events as well as full descriptions and registration links.
Hey there my fellow queer leaders,
I just wanted to get some information out to our local LGBTQIA+ organizations about CCP's upcoming launch of their first round of services, Rainbow Bridging Case Management. These services will be free of cost and are offered on a walk-in basis with a preference for appointments. We will host using office space at Cafe Euphoria on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6-9 pm. We are also able to offer services virtually.
This program is meant to act as a bridge and buddy system to help our local queer folks attain the services they need in an affirming and safe manner. I will head up the services, along with a fellow CASAC and CRPA from the community, who will also be volunteering their time. I am leaving the link below to our services form. Folks can also submit an inquiry for an appointment via our website.
Second, we are also launching our Recovery Rainbow support group. This will be held in person at the Troy Public Library on the 1st Thursday of the month and virtually on the 3rd Thursday of the month. I have attached the graphic we used here for you to share. Also, we are looking for group facilitators! We ask that they be over 18, have one year in their sobriety journey, identify as LGBTQIA+, and have lived experience with substance use. These are paid positions, with stipends of $50 for each session facilitated.
Lastly, we are hosting another Narcan training in February and would love the help in spreading the word! That flyer is also attached.
Please let us know if you have any questions. We look forward to working with you all this year!
CCP Service Inquiry Form:
https://forms.gle/x9PoKxydZCf24cdo6
Group Facilitator Interest Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8gbgZTJJZLXYzA7f_RQVMIrSaiEJWHlFDKj4-rFq8e7y2uw/viewform?usp=dialog
Best,
Meagon Nolasco, MSW
I just wanted to get some information out to our local LGBTQIA+ organizations about CCP's upcoming launch of their first round of services, Rainbow Bridging Case Management. These services will be free of cost and are offered on a walk-in basis with a preference for appointments. We will host using office space at Cafe Euphoria on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6-9 pm. We are also able to offer services virtually.
This program is meant to act as a bridge and buddy system to help our local queer folks attain the services they need in an affirming and safe manner. I will head up the services, along with a fellow CASAC and CRPA from the community, who will also be volunteering their time. I am leaving the link below to our services form. Folks can also submit an inquiry for an appointment via our website.
Second, we are also launching our Recovery Rainbow support group. This will be held in person at the Troy Public Library on the 1st Thursday of the month and virtually on the 3rd Thursday of the month. I have attached the graphic we used here for you to share. Also, we are looking for group facilitators! We ask that they be over 18, have one year in their sobriety journey, identify as LGBTQIA+, and have lived experience with substance use. These are paid positions, with stipends of $50 for each session facilitated.
Lastly, we are hosting another Narcan training in February and would love the help in spreading the word! That flyer is also attached.
Please let us know if you have any questions. We look forward to working with you all this year!
CCP Service Inquiry Form:
https://forms.gle/x9PoKxydZCf24cdo6
Group Facilitator Interest Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8gbgZTJJZLXYzA7f_RQVMIrSaiEJWHlFDKj4-rFq8e7y2uw/viewform?usp=dialog
Best,
Meagon Nolasco, MSW
RAINBOW BRIDGING CASE MANAGEMENT BY MEAGON NOLASCO
COLLAR CITY PRIDE'S LAUNCH OF
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT:
Did you know The Pride Center offers FREE mental health counseling and case management? Provided by LGBTQ+-affirming staff and interns, these essential services are open to all LGBTQ+ folks and allies, ages 10 and up. Click HERE to find out more and make an appointment.
FREE COUNSELING & CASE MANAGEMENT
COMMUNITY RESOURCE:
LGBTQ+ resources are not always easy to find in the Capital Region. Making sure that you are provided with safe, competent, and affirming services is something we strive for at The Pride Center. Do you have a physician you love? How about a business that always feels affirming or safe? Please share your LGBTQ+ affirming resources with us HERE!
SHARE YOUR FAVES
COMMUNITY RESOURCE:
Have something to share? We’re opening submissions for future newsletters! Whether it’s an article, op-ed, or community story, we’d love to hear from you. Email your submission to ngray@capitalpridecenter.org by the 20th of each month for consideration in the following issue.
CALL FOR COMMUNITY SUBMISSIONS
COMMUNITY VOICES:
PRINTABLE NEWSLETTER
The Pride Center's Monthly Newsletter is linked below for anyone who would like a printed copy. We encourage our fellow community service providers to print copies of the monthly newsletter to make available in their space.
DOWNLOAD A PDF OF THIS NEWSLETTER
LEARN ABOUT BECOMING A VOLUNTEER
WE HAVE A SMALL BUT MIGHTY TEAM AT THE PRIDE CENTER, AND WE NEED THE MINDS, HANDS, AND HEARTS OF PEOPLE LIKE YOU TO HELP US CONTINUE TO PROVIDE THE VITAL COMMUNITY SERVICES, GROUPS AND ADVOCACY THAT WE ARE KNOWN FOR.
