This October, we celebrate the history of the LGBTQ+ community and recognize the struggles – and the triumphs – our community has experienced over the past several decades. As we head into the end of the year, people are getting ready to head to the polls for one of the most consequential presidential elections in history for marginalized individuals in the South Coast and everywhere. We encourage everyone to help ensure a bright future for the LGBTQ+ community by supporting candidates and policies that provide equal rights for us all.
October is LGBT History Month
Learning from our past helps us build a bright future. LGBT History Month was founded in 1994 after Rodney Wilson, a gay Missouri high school teacher, proposed that a month should be set aside to educate people on the civil rights journey of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, as well as their contributions to history. Early supporters of the idea included former Massachusetts Governor William Weld and the former Mayor of Boston, the late Thomas Menino. The Human Rights Campaign provides a thoughtful overview of LGBT History Month, as does GLAAD.
Out of the Shadows
Celebrating National Coming Out Day, October 11 In honor of LGBT History Month, The South Coast LGBTQ+ Network has created a new series called “Out of the Shadows,” featuring profiles of local LGBTQ+ individuals whose stories we hope will inspire others to be who they are, freely and unapologetically. The campaign will launch on National Coming Out Day, October 11. Look for it on our Facebook page.
Trans and Nonbinary Support Group
Providing a safe, open, and non-judgmental space. A trans and nonbinary support group is now getting together, with social distancing protocols strictly observed, every other Wednesday in Westport, Mass. This is a place where individuals (ages 12+) can share their experiences, hopes, and dreams. The group is moderated by a clinical psychologist. Food is provided at no charge, and transportation support may be available.
Contact Eileen Dugas at eileen@sclgbtqnetwork.org for more information.
For more info, visit https://www.sclgbtqnetwork.org
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