Today is a good day to celebrate events supporting LGBTQ folks and to take a stand against discrimination!
Historic equality legislation happened today in the USA!
And Taiwan legalized same-sex marriage!
(Lancaster rainbow stickers can be purchased from Madcap & Co.)
Countering Bi Erasure, it’s the 6th annual Bi Health Awareness Month:
(Lancaster rainbow stickers can be purchased from Madcap & Co.)
In St. Louis this week, 53% of Methodist delegates voted to continue the “traditional model,” which opposes same-sex marriage and LGBT clergy, leaving some LGBTQ members and clergy excluded and heartbroken.
WaPo coverage at Twitter link below, and here: UMC Vote.
If you would like to make an appointment for pastoral counseling with our newest colleague, LGBT-supportive Methodist pastoral counselor, Rev. Dr. John G. Smith, please contact us by email or phone.
New York State Bans Dangerous Conversion “Therapy,” Protects Gender Expression in legislation passed today:
Pennsylvania is NOT among the states to have passed a statewide ban on conversion “therapy.” Only 18% of our population is estimated to be protected by local bans in our state. Check out the maps on this site for more information:
Remember, in an oppressive system, just surviving and daring to take care of yourself is an act of rebellion.
We need you alive and doing okay. Be your best rebel self!
“How can we live our trans lives in a world full of violence without turning that violence on ourselves?”
From Them.us:
A client today anonymously offers a quote that I’ve been hearing from others as well:
“I offer gratitude to those who’ve come out in the past, encouragement for those who will be coming out in the future, and support to those who don’t feel safe to come out yet. We see you.”
For a comprehensive array of links and resources, visit Human Rights Campaign’s site!
Header graphic by @rewstermania:
Barry Russell: “I believe Lancaster is the FIRST city to officially honor the contributions of LGBTQ+ people and our history…that is powerful!”
(Lancaster rainbow stickers can be purchased from Madcap & Co.)
This was my first year at Lancaster PA PRIDE FEST and I was not disappointed! There was so much love and happiness in the air the storms blew over and the sun shined for all. I’ve never seen so many amazing people living their best life! The shouts of happiness and pride filled the streets of Lancaster near and fair and brought smiles to each and every person there.
There was no shortage of support
Thousands of LGBTQ supporters attended the 11th annual fest. Vendors lined the 8 blocks of Water Street to show support along with politicians, schools, churches, and local companies. Crafts stands where you could create while talking about your experiences and life with others were nearly everywhere. Companies big and small were out with apparel to please every gender shape and size.
The drag show in Culliton Park was fierce! One side of the stage a beer and mix drink garden, and the other side general admission. No charge this year to enter the event, but so many wonderful fest goers donated. The communities response was overwhelmingly positive states vendors all up and down the streets.
With many people stating this was the best year yet for Lancaster PRIDE! We sure are looking forward to next year as the community gets stronger and the support becomes greater!
“An amazing organization bringing Queerness to an amazing place. Lancaster Pride has seriously raised the bar for future cities I visit ♥ You are amazing.” -J.S. Via FB
“Best Pride yet!!!! Oh my, you all outdid yourselves! So much to see, excellent variety of stands and food, and the music and Queens were fabulous! Perfect venue and not one little sight of anti anything! Can’t wait until next year!!!! Thank you!” -B.Y. Via FB
Lancaster Pride (Sunday June 24, 12-6): No entrance fee this year plus a beer garden. Sounds like it will be a bigger deal than ever this year! Stay safe, take care of yourself and each other, and have fun!
#pridemonth
