TransCentralPA Newsletter Serving the Transgender Community of Central Pennsylvania since 1989 May 2014 www.TransCentralPA.org c/o MCC of the Spirit Volume 25 [email protected] 2973 Jefferson Street Issue 2 TransCentralPA is a 501(c)(3) non‐profit organiza on Harrisburg, PA 17110
Announcements May’s Dinner will be at Bricco in downtown Harrisburg on Saturday, May 10th at 5:30pm. We’ll sit down promptly at 6:00 pm. Please RSVP if you plan to attend at our website. May’s Meeting is Saturday, May 10th at 8:30 pm. Doors will open at ap- proximately 8:00 pm. Alexis Lake will be at the May meeting to moderate the discussion. See below in the red box for our May discussion topics. Offer your thoughts to Alexis prior to the meeting at [email protected].
After Hours is at Stock’s on Second. Gretchen Paul, Secretary of TransCentralPA, talking to students at Millersville Stock’s offers an opportunity to min- Sexuality & Gender Institute at Millersville University. The Sexuality & Gender gle and socialize in a friendly atmos- Institute - Dedicated to equity, scholarship, and cultural (r)evolution. phere as well as an opportunity to dance to some great music. So for literature, our website and our affilia- of this special offer, call the hotel di- great conversation, friendship and tion with and support of community rectly at (717) 939-1331 and use the more, please join us at Stock’s on groups and activities such as Com- rate code “TCPA”. The are also offer- 2nd. There is no cover. mon Roads, the Community Center, ing a special price for their Business May Birthdays! Please say Happy Central Pennsylvania Pride, etc. King suites, too. Ask for details. Birthday to Delaney Ol., Brenda Ro., Please continue to support our or- Electrolysis James Walker is in the Tina La., Alexis Bl., Rikki Al., Aimee ganization and efforts by joining or local area this week. Please contact Se., Beth St., and Jane Ai. Happy renewing your membership—we are Suzane Oliva for details. Birthday! making a difference! Have an announcement? Email us Membership Dues are a one-time Red Roof Inn Discount We have at [email protected] annual fee of $20. Spouses or SOs negotiated a rate of $42.99/night for are $10 for the year. Dues are used 2013 for both TransCentralPA mem- to pay for meeting space, program bers and guests. To take advantage
What Are Your Thoughts? Come share yours at our May 10th Meeting at 8:30 pm at the MCC of the Spirit in Harrisburg. Our moderated discus- sion will center on the questions below. But don’t hold us in suspense...we’d love to hear it before the meeting, so email us at [email protected] to share your thoughts. “What have you gained by being more out?” and “What do you miss by having chosen to be more out?”
Page 2 The sixth annual 2014 Keystone Con- Calendar of Events ference was a wonderful success once again! This year another entire day of From Bold text are TransCentralPA sponsored workshops was added, many programs May Common Roads —Safe Space were enhanced and new events and the 7 Harrisburg, PA activities were well attended. Our spon- President sors came through with more support May Common Roads—Safe Space 8 Carlisle, PA than ever. All of us involved with the Jeanine Ruhsam event and with TransCentralPA, the May Common Roads—Safe Space parent organization of the Keystone Conference, want to extend deep and 9 Lancaster, PA heartfelt thanks to all of you for your generosity! May NoVA MCC—Gender Support And, to all the volunteers that put so many hours of dedicated effort into stag- 9 Fairfax, VA ing this event: thank you! You are special and amazing; your indefatigable presence, your wonderful, welcoming, helpful smiles and attitudes truly made May TransCentralPA Dinner @ Bricco this event a warm and welcome haven for all who came. 10 Meeting @ the MCC Of The Spirit Wayne Maines, Keystone’s Saturday night keynote speaker, brought tears to After Hours @ Stocks most of the audience of 360 as he described his family’s years-long, ultimately May Common Roads —Safe Space victorious struggle to gain equal civil rights for his transgender school-age 14 Harrisburg, PA daughter. That significant win in the Supreme Court of the state of Maine in late February led to a milestone ruling last week by the U.S. Department of May CPGLCC Networking Mixer Education that federal Title IX law prohibits discrimination against transgender 14 Lancaster, PA students. The Department’s Office for Civil Rights stated that, "Title IX's sex May Common Roads—Safe Space discrimination prohibition extends to claims of discrimination based on gender 15 Carlisle, PA identity or failure to conform to stereotypical notions of masculinity or femininity.” The National Center for Transgender Equality’s Poli- May The Curve cy Director Harper Jean Tobin commented, "This announcement is a break- 15 York, PA through for transgender students, who too often face hostility at school and May Common Roads—Safe Space refusal by school officials to accept them for who they truly are. It is now clear- 16 Lancaster, PA er than ever that schools nationwide are responsible for ensuring that transgender students are respected and safe.” TransCentralPA and the Key- May Laptop Lounge stone Conference extend thanks and appreciation to the Wayne Maines family 17 King Of Prussia, PA for their significant contribution towards improving the lives of America’s May Common Roads —Safe Space transgender children and students. We are so encouraged that the tide is turn- 21 Harrisburg, PA ing, state by state, and now nationally, in favor of recognition and equal treat- ment for transgender people. May Common Roads—Safe Space 22 Carlisle, PA Warmly, May Common Roads—Safe Space 23 Lancaster, PA Jeanine Ruhsam May ROSE 24 York, PA May Memorial Day 26 May Common Roads —Safe Space 27 Harrisburg, PA May The Curve 29 York, PA Jun TGEA Regular Meeting 7 VA Jun Philly Trans Health Conference 12 Philadelphia, PA Jun TransCentralPA Dinner @ Stocks 14 Meeting @ the MCC Of The Spirit After Hours @ Stocks Visit www.TransCentralPA.org for details & more event info!
Page 3
A great deal of time is spent on the discussion of how to tell a spouse you are transgender. However, telling your spouse is only the first step in a long line of open communication. The Title IX to Include most important part is what happens after the initial conversation and your significant other Gender Identity now knows. Here are 6 Steps to strengthening your relationship and allowing it to continue Protections to grow. The United States Department of 1. Take Things Slow! You have known and struggled with this for most of your life. Re- Education clarified that Title IX's sex member she is just finding out. She needs time. discrimination prohibition extends to 2. Don't Push! Do not push your spouse into going shopping or going out with you claims of discrimination based on dressed. She needs to get to know your female side and appearance slowly, in the pri- gender identity or failure to conform vacy of your own home. If you push too hard, you could push her away. to stereotypical notions of masculinity or femininity. 3. Communication is Key! Be honest with your spouse. Allow them to ask questions and be prepared to answer them in the most honest way you can. If you are not sure how In other words, transgender students far you plan to go with your transition then you need to tell her that. There should be no across the country are protected by secrets anymore. You should begin to travel this path together. Don't leave her trying to federal sex discrimination law and keep up. can file formal complaints against teachers and administrators for dis- 4. Help to Educate Your Spouse! Give your partner the opportunity to learn more. There crimination or harassment. are some great books that may be helpful. A few are: "True Selves",by Mildred Brown & Chloe Rounsley, "She's Not There", by Jenny Boylan, "If You Really Loved Me", by To learn more about these guidelines Emma Cantons and the documentary "Trans The Movie". and what rights trans and gender non -conforming students have in school, 5. Be Patient! Your spouse needs to process this new information and she may react in please download NCTE’s Your Rights several ways. It is common for many spouses to go through a grieving process which at School resource. may include the following Five Stages: 1. Denial 2. Bargaining 3. Anger 4. Depression 5.Acceptance. These stages can take time. Be there for her and take this journey to- Research has indicated that 80% of gether. transgender students feel unsafe at school because of who they are. Bul- 6. Tell Her You Love Her! Your spouse may begin to feel insecure about herself. Tell her lying, harassment and discrimination you love her and reassure her this is not her fault. Let her know you are not going any- against trans and gender non- where and you still want to be with her. She needs to hear this from you often. conforming students is a nationwide Lorrie Yale problem. Any student who feels that T.R.U.S.T. Co-Founder they have been the victim of this type significantotherpa.org of discrimination should file a com- plaint as soon as possible. This development is in-step with simi- lar clarifications issued by other fed- Kristin Beck Gallery Show and eral agencies including the Depart- ments of Housing and Urban Devel- Fundraiser to Benefit 296 Project opment and Health and Human Ser- vices and the Equal Employment June 6th in Arlington, VA Opportunity Commission. Taken to- gether with the Department of Educa- tion, there is resounding consensus among federal agencies that anti- transgender discrimination is unac- ceptable in federally-funded pro- grams and services. The Department of Education's an- nouncement is a breakthrough for transgender students, who too often face hostility and disrespect at school. It is now clearer than ever that schools nationwide are responsi- ble for ensuring that transgender stu- dents are respected at school and are safe at school. And, if their The 296 Project is a pending 501(c)3, Tax Exempt Veteran Service Organization. schools do not do ensure equal treat- Our mission is to provide, promote, advocate for and produce art and expressive ment and safety, students can seek therapies as a means to combat the painful symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress protection from the Department of Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Education.
Page 4 Trans‐Headliners Below are several news stories, blogs, opinions and resources for your reading pleasure. Opinions & views in these links cannot be assumed to be of TransCentralPA, nor the Officers or Members of TransCentralPA. Our goal is to simply provide you with information & thought-provoking viewpoints. If you would like to submit a story, please email us at [email protected] Gynecologic malignancies in female-to-male transgender patients: the need of original gender surveillance Commission Finds ‘No Compelling Medical Reason’ To Exclude Transgender Americans From Military Bruce Weber on the Barneys Campaign Featuring Transgender Models: It "Changed the Course of My Life.” Pentagon Ban On Transgender Service: There's No Good Reason To Exclude Trans Troops Shocking Study: Trans Women Are 49 Times More Likely to Have HIV Than Other Women Pennsylvania Lawmaker To Introduce Package Of Sweeping Transgender Rights Bills N.Y. Student Told Her Trans Boyfriend Not Allowed at Prom, Couple Plan Their Own Maine Supreme Court rules in favor of transgender girl in Orono school bathroom case A Crazy Oculus Rift Hack Lets Men and Women Swap Bodies In Their Own Terms--The Growing Transgender Presence in Pop Culture SPIRIT FOOD PANTRY Legal project helps transgender people get a name change The MCC of the Spirit is collecting non- Care of the transgender patient: the role of the gynecologist perishable food to provide groceries to MD Transgender Non-Discrimination Bill Passes Full Senate the folks who attend their monthly 2nd Ellen Degeneres Called 'Transphobic' After Liza Minnelli Oscars Joke Monday Sharing Our Caring dinner. For transgender service members, honesty can end career Items such as: Bags of Rice &/or Maryland lawmakers launch drive to overturn transgender 'bathroom bill' Beans; Canned soups/beans/meats/ Texas Transgender Teacher Banned From the Classroom Following Suspension fruit; Boxed mashed potatoes or mac n Laverne Cox to Produce MTV & Logo TV Documentary About Trans Teens cheese; Jars of peanut butter & jel- Updated Dept. of Defense Human Rights Goals Include LGB, Neglect T ly; and, Condiments: ketchup, mustard, mayo, soy sauce, salad dressings, etc. Two Trans People File Lawsuits Against N.J. Police Departments Chelsea Manning Announces Legal Name Change in Optimistic Letter They also need paper or reusable bags Ore. Bar Found Guilty of Discriminating Against Trans Patrons Shuts Its Doors to pack the food. No large economy siz- es & No canned veggies needed. U.S. Department of Justice Launches Trans Outreach Training Initiative B. Scott to Appeal Ruling Finding BET Didn't Discriminate A container is in the Fellowship Hall for Casey among original cosponsors of Clementi bill donations. Questions? Please contact Luke at [email protected] A Place to Slip Into Something Comfortable Top model admits she used to be a man Trans* Women Are Not Drag Queens Rep. to introduce first-ever trans bill Appellate brief filed in Morris case Top national honor for Nizah Morris coverage Trans Bodies, Trans Selves Aims to Educate the Trans Masses GLAAD Cochair Jennifer Finney Boylan Joins Barnard College Denied Hormone Treatment, Ohio Trans Prisoner Files Lawsuit TransMilitary Documentary Launches Crowdfunding Effort The transgender recruits of the Madurai Home Guard Is the T Word the New N Word? Ill. Trans Woman Alleges Medical Discrimination, Files Lawsuit Op-ed: How Not to React When an LGBT Teacher Is Fired Indian Supreme Court Recognizes Third Gender Arizona Activist Found Guilty of 'Walking While Trans' 2014 Adolescent Chaz Bono Talks Trans Issues on RuPaul's Drag Race Sexual Health Conference Prominent Trans Twitter Engineer Charged With Raping Her Wife Ellen Page Introduces Her Hero, Laverne Cox Join us June 24 & 25 Okla. Trans Woman Paula Sophia to Run for Statehouse Seat at Temple University Harrisburg Texas Trans Teacher Reinstated After Suspension Check out the amazing opportunities offered at A Transgender Blessing Complete 2014 Trans 100 List Released to the General Public this Second Annual Conference. Registration Social Security Administration Updates Transgender Policy now open at: Op-ed: Transgender Student, Softball Star Trans Pioneer Christie Lee Van De Putte Dead at 51 sites.temple.edu/ashconference
Petition the Sign
number of military personnel seeking ad- seeking personnel military of number
is still MORE WORK TO BE DONE... We We DONE... BE TO WORK MORE still is
USN SEAL(ret) SEAL(ret) USN The Veteran Affairs further reports that the the that reports further Affairs Veteran The
much progress made all of us know there there know us of all made progress much
tunity for all…. While there has been been has there While all…. for tunity Kristin Beck Beck Kristin the military. military. the
military service a model of equal oppor- equal of model a service military
those have served in in served have those of 20% that America
Humbly at your service, service, your at Humbly
"We will CONTINUE striving to make make to striving CONTINUE will "We over 700,000 transgender individuals in in individuals transgender 700,000 over
armed forces. forces. armed A recent Harvard study says that of the the of that says study Harvard recent A
ing the signing of this Charter: Charter: this of signing the ing
Americans to serve our great nation in the the in nation great our serve to Americans
Further, You stated in your address dur- address your in stated You Further,
their lives. lives. their
equal opportunity for qualified and eager eager and qualified for opportunity equal
and in fear for their jobs and sometimes sometimes and jobs their for fear in and
formance of our primary mission." mission." primary our of formance
FREEDOM for ALL AMERICANS and an an and AMERICANS ALL for FREEDOM
continue to also serve hiding themselves themselves hiding serve also to continue
maintaining full effectiveness in the per- the in effectiveness full maintaining
I implore you to make this leap forward in in forward leap this make to you implore I
forces who are serving with HONOR and and HONOR with serving are who forces
human and physical resources while while resources physical and human
ulation. ulation. service members currently in the armed armed the in currently members service
members, by efficient utilization of our our of utilization efficient by members,
airmen and marines to an antiquated reg- antiquated an to marines and airmen There are THOUSANDS of transgender transgender of THOUSANDS are There
society, including its disadvantaged disadvantaged its including society,
we lose more qualified soldiers, sailors, sailors, soldiers, qualified more lose we
improvement of our our of improvement the to contribute To
forces. forces.
committee and come to a decision before before decision a to come and committee
Americans to serve as equals in the armed armed the in equals as serve to Americans
sons; sons;
I implore you and your staff to set up a a up set to staff your and you implore I
toward true equality and allow transgender transgender allow and equality true toward
spect and cooperation among all per- all among cooperation and spect
the repeal of DADT. DADT. of repeal the The TIME IS NOW to complete this journey journey this complete to NOW IS TIME The
values diversity and fosters mutual re- mutual fosters and diversity values
own experiences with with experiences own our to similar very
To create an inclusive environment that that environment inclusive an create To
or, yet we are not offered the same liberty. liberty. same the offered not are we yet or,
transgender service has had no impact; impact; no had has service transgender
service members still today serve with hon- with serve today still members service
tional origin; origin; tional
statistics from our allies in which which in allies our from statistics
Navy SEALs as many other transgender transgender other many as SEALs Navy
sex, religion, sexual orientation, or na- or orientation, sexual religion, sex,
terials. There are hundreds of reports and and reports of hundreds are There terials.
truths and rights for twenty years in the the in years twenty for rights and truths
tunity for all regardless of race, color, color, race, of regardless all for tunity
vice members have an abundance of ma- of abundance an have members vice
I am transgender and I defended these these defended I and transgender am I
ment of Defense a model of equal oppor- equal of model a Defense of ment the countries to accept transgender ser- transgender accept to countries the
"To make military service in the Depart- the in service military make "To The Australians being the most recent of of recent most the being Australians The ty and the pursuit of happiness. happiness. of pursuit the and ty
ed EQUAL and have the rights of life, liber- life, of rights the have and EQUAL ed
To point out a few parts of the charter: charter: the of parts few a out point To
Australia 2010 2010 Australia
evident truth that all men(people) are creat- are men(people) all that truth evident
tions, and capabilities." capabilities." and tions, Uruguay 2009 2009 Uruguay tion of Independence stating the self- the stating Independence of tion
recognizing their individual needs, aspira- needs, individual their recognizing
THIRTY EIGHT years since the Declara- the since years EIGHT THIRTY
Spain 2007 2007 Spain
ian employees, and family members, members, family and employees, ian turning point... TWO HUNDRED AND AND HUNDRED TWO point... turning
show respect for Service members, civil- members, Service for respect show Belgium 2007 2007 Belgium SIXTY SEVEN years we have been at a a at been have we years SEVEN SIXTY
and worth. ... In all that we do, we must must we do, we that all In ... worth. and
Sweden 2007 2007 Sweden enjoy these rights." rights." these enjoy Americans all that
that each individual has infinite dignity dignity infinite has individual each that
important today than ever before to insure insure to before ever than today important
"Our Nation was founded on the principle principle the on founded was Nation "Our Thailand 2005 2005 Thailand
abroad have made us realize that it is more more is it that realize us made have abroad
"Human Goals Charter" which states states which Charter" Goals "Human Czech Republic 1999 1999 Republic Czech he United States and and States United he t in events Recent
You recently signed and ratified the the ratified and signed recently You freedom and equality to all our citizens. citizens. our all to equality and freedom
United Kingdom 1999 1999 Kingdom United
history of our country's efforts to guarantee guarantee to efforts country's our of history
and Liberty for all. all. for Liberty and
Israel 1993 1993 Israel
have reached a turning point in the long long the in point turning a reached have States to remain a example of Freedom Freedom of example a remain to States
freedom. It is my deep conviction that we we that conviction deep my is It freedom.
our nation and the ability of the United United the of ability the and nation our New Zealand 1993 1993 Zealand New
to you briefly about civil rights and human human and rights civil about briefly you to
utmost importance to to importance utmost of is this as petition
Canada 1992 1992 Canada
President Truman said "I should like to talk talk to like should "I said Truman President Please take careful consideration of this this of consideration careful take Please
Netherlands 1970s 1970s Netherlands
many leaders and yourself recently. recently. yourself and leaders many Secretary Hegel, Hegel, Secretary
1947 and of which has been reiterated by by reiterated been has which of and 1947
Brazil 1969 1969 Brazil
By Kristin Beck Beck Kristin By President Truman spoke on June, 29th 29th June, on spoke Truman President
members of the armed forces. forces. armed the of members
Sir, Our nation is at a turning point of which which of point turning a at is nation Our Sir,
to serve in the Armed Forces Forces Armed the in serve to
transgender persons to serve as equal equal as serve to persons transgender
PLE PLE allow transgender persons persons transgender allow
Thirteen countries have allowed allowed have countries Thirteen
DIGNITY AND RESPECT FOR ALL PEO- ALL FOR RESPECT AND DIGNITY
U.S. Department of Defense Defense of Department U.S.
honor. honor. -A CULTURE OF ACCOUNTABILITY, ACCOUNTABILITY, OF CULTURE -A
Defense Chuck Hegal: The The Hegal: Chuck Defense ability for a person to excel and serve with with serve and excel to person a for ability
ITS DISADVANTAGED DISADVANTAGED ITS
being transgender has no impact on the the on impact no has transgender being
A Petition to Secretary of of Secretary to Petition A
-IMPROVE OUR SOCIETY, INCLUDING INCLUDING SOCIETY, OUR -IMPROVE Many recent studies further show that that show further studies recent Many
out dated and inaccurate information. information. inaccurate and dated out -MUTUAL RESPECT FOR ALL PERSONS PERSONS ALL FOR RESPECT -MUTUAL
phoria. The DODs guidance is based on on based is guidance DODs The phoria.
-INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT -INCLUSIVE
documented this further as a mere dys- mere a as further this documented
sociation has come to the realization and and realization the to come has sociation TUNITY FOR ALL ALL FOR TUNITY
armed forces. The American Medical As- Medical American The forces. armed -DOD IS A MODEL OF EQUAL OPPOR- EQUAL OF MODEL A IS -DOD
for disqualification from serving in the the in serving from disqualification for
us.” us.”
Being transgender has no medical basis basis medical no has transgender Being
people. That is a TOP PRIORITY for all of of all for PRIORITY TOP a is That people.
years. years. dignity, and respect across DoD and for all all for and DoD across respect and dignity,
vice on gender has doubled in the last few few last the in doubled has gender on vice must reinforce a culture of accountability, accountability, of culture a reinforce must Page 5 5 Page
History Project at one of your mem- your of one at Project History
center executive executive center said year," each lives
Invite us to give a presentation on the the on presentation a give to us Invite
programs touching literally thousands of of thousands literally touching programs
"We are a community driven resource with with resource driven community a are "We its members can participate: participate: can members its
There are many ways organizations and and organizations ways many are There
sary. sary.
through individual memberships is neces- is memberships individual through as well. well. as
meet its annual budget, sustained giving giving sustained budget, annual its meet members of the Transgender community community Transgender the of members
self-funded charitable organization. To To organization. charitable self-funded the whole story. They want to include include to want They story. whole the
nity Center wants YOU. The center is a a is center The YOU. wants Center nity they want to be comprehensive and tell tell and comprehensive be to want they
. . here click member, a become To The Central Pennsylvania LGBT Commu- LGBT Pennsylvania Central The entral Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, entral c of history LGBT
ument, preserve, and tell the stories of of stories the tell and preserve, ument,
party. party.
Buy a Membership Membership a Buy
be your History Project. To discover, doc- discover, To Project. History your be
prior level benefits plus a private dinner dinner private a plus benefits level prior
Community Center Center Community
The Center wants the History Project to to Project History the wants Center The Purple Level - $1,200 ($100/mo) includes includes ($100/mo) $1,200 - Level Purple
Support Region's LGBT LGBT Region's Support
help fund our objectives. objectives. our fund help
2014. 2014.
are working on applications for others to to others for applications on working are
level benefits plus one free ticket to FAB FAB to ticket free one plus benefits level
nia. They have received three grants and and grants three received have They nia.
Blue Level - $600 ($50/mo) includes prior prior includes ($50/mo) $600 - Level Blue
of central Pennsylva- central of history LGBT of ries
. . website
member reception. reception. member
and documents collected and tell the sto- the tell and collected documents and
or visit their their visit or [email protected]
prior level benefits plus an exclusive exclusive an plus benefits level prior
much of the oral history videos, photos, photos, videos, history oral the of much
histo- at chair Project History
Green Level - $240 ($20/mo) includes includes ($20/mo) $240 - Level Green
content-rich interactive website to present present to website interactive content-rich Project, please contact Barry Loveland, the the Loveland, Barry contact please Project,
plan and have exciting plans to create a a create to plans exciting have and plan tion would like to get involved in the History History the in involved get to like would tion and other event programs. programs. event other and
The Center recently developed a strategic strategic a developed recently Center The
you have any questions or your organiza- your or questions any have you discounts plus listing in Annual Report Report Annual in listing plus discounts
one or more of the ways listed above. If If above. listed ways the of more or one Yellow Level - $120 ($10/mo) includes includes ($10/mo) $120 - Level Yellow LGBT History Month last October. October. last Month History LGBT
They hope you will consider participating in in participating consider will you hope They artifact and archival materials during during materials archival and artifact
- Student $20 (one-time) (one-time) $20 Student -
sponsoring an exhibit of a selection of the the of selection a of exhibit an sponsoring
gramming, it takes money. money. takes it gramming,
- Family $90 (one-time) (one-time) $90 Family -
nership has also resulted in Dickinson Dickinson in resulted also has nership site, traveling exhibits and other pro- other and exhibits traveling site,
management of the collection. This part- This collection. the of management - Individual $60 ($15/quarterly) ($15/quarterly) $60 Individual - its full potential with an interactive web web interactive an with potential full its
vides professional archival and curatorial curatorial and archival professional vides
History Project to be able to achieve achieve to able be to Project History
listed below. Red Levels include include Levels Red below. listed
and transcripts. Dickinson College pro- College Dickinson transcripts. and
to benefit the History Project. For the the For Project. History the benefit to
discounts at participating businesses businesses participating at discounts
tion and original oral history recordings recordings history oral original and tion
Make a donation or hold a fundraiser fundraiser a hold or donation a Make
Basic Membership - Red Level includes includes Level Red - Membership Basic pository of the archival and artifact collec- artifact and archival the of pository
help to make them happen. happen. them make to help and Special Collections which is the re- the is which Collections Special and Membership Levels Levels Membership
highlight LGBT history, but we need need we but history, LGBT highlight ment with the Dickinson College Archives Archives College Dickinson the with ment
that by 100 additional members. members. additional 100 by that ideas for interesting programs that that programs interesting for ideas They have signed a partnership agree- partnership a signed have They
has 200 members. The goal is to increase increase to is goal The members. 200 has
ry with the History Project. We have have We Project. History the with ry
help tell the story of our history. history. our of story the tell help
annual membership. The center currently currently center The membership. annual
Co-sponsor a program on LGBT histo- LGBT on program a Co-sponsor
and artifacts that that artifacts and photographs, ments, can support the organization through an an through organization the support can
more than ten cubic feet of archival docu- archival of feet cubic ten than more views. views. and individuals who use center services services center use who individuals and
interviewed. They have also collected collected also have They interviewed. individuals and also transcribe inter- transcribe also and individuals Members of the LGBT community, allies, allies, community, LGBT the of Members
than 80 people on the waiting list to be be to list waiting the on people 80 than would like to interview other LGBT LGBT other interview to like would
students for a total of 340. 340. of total a for students
ple in central Pennsylvania and has more more has and Pennsylvania central in ple cially looking for more volunteers who who volunteers more for looking cially
215 high school students and 125 college college 125 and students school high 215
oral history interviews with 33 LGBT peo- LGBT 33 with interviews history oral with the History Project. We are espe- are We Project. History the with
2014 event set record attendance with with attendance record set event 2014
The History Project has recorded video video recorded has Project History The
Encourage your members to volunteer volunteer to members your Encourage
be the LGBT leaders of tomorrow. The The tomorrow. of leaders LGBT the be
tories and material culture. culture. material and tories
school and college students who aspire to to aspire who students college and school ization. ization.
Pennsylvania by preserving their oral his- oral their preserving by Pennsylvania
leadership and skills training to high high to training skills and leadership story and their history with your organ- your with history their and story
people of central central of people LGBT of lives nary
ship Summit. The popular event offers offers event popular The Summit. ship to be interviewed to tell their personal personal their tell to interviewed be to
ple in discovering the stories of extraordi- of stories the discovering in ple
7th Annual Gay-Straight Alliance Leader- Alliance Gay-Straight Annual 7th Encourage your members to sign up up sign to members your Encourage
vania. The History Project engages peo- engages Project History The vania. enter completed its its completed enter c the 21-22, Feb. On
zation’s history and accomplishments. accomplishments. and history zation’s community right here in central Pennsyl- central in here right community
history. history. help you tell the story of your organi- your of story the tell you help ory of our LGBT LGBT our of ory hist the documenting
and resources on the region's rich lgbt lgbt rich region's the on resources and ization and researchers who want to to want who researchers and ization already making significant progress in in progress significant making already
chives information information chives ar which Project, tory zation for future leaders of your organ- your of leaders future for zation program started in August 2012 and is is and 2012 August in started program
The center is also home to the LGBT His- LGBT the to home also is center The serve the information about an organi- an about information the serve make you aware of the History Project, a a Project, History the of aware you make
ational institutions. institutions. ational educ and entities profit These records are valuable to pre- to valuable are records These The LGBT Center of Central PA wants to to wants PA Central of Center LGBT The
and women, in addition to training for non- for training to addition in women, and
and sometimes get lost or discarded. discarded. or lost get sometimes and
The History Project Project History The
vides programs that focus on youth, aging aging youth, on focus that programs vides and basements of volunteer leaders leaders volunteer of basements and
N 3rd Street, Harrisburg, the center pro- center the Harrisburg, Street, 3rd N organizations often end up in the attics attics the in up end often organizations
In addition to maintaining a facility at 1306 1306 at facility a maintaining to addition In the History Project. Old records of of records Old Project. History the
records, documents, and artifacts to to artifacts and documents, records, a year. year. a
Donate your organization’s archival archival organization’s your Donate starting at $15 every third month, for $60 $60 for month, third every $15 at starting
matically deducted from a credit card, card, credit a from deducted matically
tions and discussion. discussion. and tions
memberships of $60 a a $60 of memberships year that are auto- are that year
fully generate further interest, ques- interest, further generate fully
said. This can be achieved with sustaining sustaining with achieved be can This said.
view of the History Project and hope- and Project History the of view
cial support of our programs," Marven Marven programs," our of support cial
that will give your members an over- an members your give will that
"We're looking for stable, ongoing finan- ongoing stable, for looking "We're
Point presentation of about 20 minutes minutes 20 about of presentation Point
bership meetings. We have a Power Power a have We meetings. bership director Louie Marven. Marven. Louie director Page 6 6 Page
It soon blossomed into a romantic relation- romantic a into blossomed soon It fusal to recognize Michael as male flew flew male as Michael recognize to fusal
the company’s re- company’s the that and authorities years apart and rekindled their friendship. friendship. their rekindled and apart years
considered male by state and federal federal and state by male considered
and Nancy reconnected after thirteen thirteen after reconnected Nancy and Business dress requested. requested. dress Business
formed the company that Michael was was Michael that company the formed
man and subsequently divorced. Michael Michael divorced. subsequently and man
30 second elevator speech. speech. elevator second 30
ently now that he had died. They in- They died. had he that now ently
during which time Nancy married another another married Nancy time which during
Bring your business cards and and cards business your Bring
uddenly treat her differ- her treat uddenly s not could it that They lost touch for a period after school, school, after period a for touch lost They
Michael’s wife while he was alive and and alive was he while wife Michael’s Prospective Member: $10 $10 Member: Prospective were close friends throughout high school. school. high throughout friends close were
had consistently recognized Nancy as as Nancy recognized consistently had
grew up in the same Midwestern town and and town Midwestern same the in up grew Members: Free Free Members:
TLDEF pointed out that the company company the that out pointed TLDEF Michael and Nancy first met in 1965. They They 1965. in met first Nancy and Michael
would expect to receive. receive. to expect would About Michael & Nancy Nancy & Michael About
veteran of the company’s workforce workforce company’s the of veteran Lancaster, PA 17602 17602 PA Lancaster,
Medicaid benefits. benefits. Medicaid
the same benefits that any other 40-year 40-year other any that benefits same the 106 East Orange Street Street Orange East 106
new life of survival on food stamps and and stamps food on survival of life new treatment - but with equal treatment and and treatment equal with but - treatment
The Hamilton Club Club Hamilton The ance was cancelled. They adjusted to a a to adjusted They cancelled. was ance d be rewarded - not with special special with not - rewarded be d ul o w
that they had. Their company health insur- health company Their had. they that
pected that his service to the company company the to service his that pected
6:00-8:00 pm pm 6:00-8:00
family lost its grasp on the middle class life life class middle the on grasp its lost family
any other married couple. Michael ex- Michael couple. married other any
Wednesday, May 14 14 May Wednesday, on his death, Nancy lost his income. His His income. his lost Nancy death, his on
company had always treated them like like them treated always had company
Networking Mixer Networking
Michael had reason to be concerned. Up- concerned. be to reason had Michael married to Nancy for decades and the the and decades for Nancy to married
and professional risk he faced. He was was He faced. he risk professional and
ly. ly. Business Business
ades ago, despite the great personal personal great the despite ago, ades
efits that would protect her and their fami- their and her protect would that efits
transition known to the company dec- company the to known transition cy do everything she could to get the ben- the get to could she everything do cy
out his life, and had made his gender gender his made had and life, his out efits. It was Michael’s dying wish that Nan- that wish dying Michael’s was It efits.
to the company. He was male through- male was He company. the to that Nancy would not receive spousal ben- spousal receive not would Nancy that
had spent his professional life in service service in life professional his spent had TLDEF, he and Nancy were still being told told being still were Nancy and he TLDEF,
his personal life in love with Nancy, he he Nancy, with love in life personal his When he died in 2012, just after contacting contacting after just 2012, in died he When
company that while Michael had spent spent had Michael while that company marriage was void as a same-sex union. union. same-sex a as void was marriage
thing. In the letter, TLDEF reminded the the reminded TLDEF letter, the In thing. Michael was transgender, stating that their their that stating transgender, was Michael
to convince the company to do the right right the do to company the convince to Michael and Nancy’s marriage because because marriage Nancy’s and Michael
company’s General Counsel in February February in Counsel General company’s administrator challenged the validity of of validity the challenged administrator
administrator and then contacted the the contacted then and administrator would not receive benefits. The benefits benefits The benefits. receive not would
TLDEF filed an appeal with the benefits benefits the with appeal an filed TLDEF Michael and Nancy were told that Nancy Nancy that told were Nancy and Michael
From the very beginning of the process, process, the of beginning very the From sal benefits. benefits. sal spou Michael’s
poses. Nancy was ineligible to receive receive to ineligible was Nancy poses. health insurance. insurance. health
their marriage invalid for pension pur- pension for invalid marriage their benefits included lifelong income and and income lifelong included benefits
time of his marriage to Nancy, rendering rendering Nancy, to marriage his of time his pension benefits after he died. The The died. he after benefits pension his
chael was not “conclusively” male at the the at male “conclusively” not was chael Nancy, as Michael’s widow, would receive receive would widow, Michael’s as Nancy,
ber 2013, they were informed that Mi- that informed were they 2013, ber sure that everything was in order so that that so order in was everything that sure
receipt of Michael’s pension. In Novem- In pension. Michael’s of receipt trator. Michael and Nancy wanted to en- to wanted Nancy and Michael trator.
their assistance. assistance. their istrator in an effort to facilitate Nancy’s Nancy’s facilitate to effort an in istrator contacted his company’s benefits adminis- benefits company’s his contacted
Rose Fulbright LLP. They are grateful for for grateful are They LLP. Fulbright Rose contacted his company’s benefits admin- benefits company’s his contacted cer in 2012, Michael and his wife Nancy Nancy wife his and Michael 2012, in cer
O’Connell and Michael Flynn of Norton Norton of Flynn Michael and O’Connell After Michael died, TLDEF repeatedly repeatedly TLDEF died, Michael After After he was diagnosed with terminal can- terminal with diagnosed was he After
senting Michael and Nancy included Sarah Sarah included Nancy and Michael senting
manufacturer in the Midwest for 40 years. years. 40 for Midwest the in manufacturer
ache. ache.
In addition to TLDEF, the legal team repre- team legal the TLDEF, to addition In
Michael was employed by a major car car major a by employed was Michael sparing Nancy at least a bit of heart- of bit a least at Nancy sparing
people equally in all aspects of life. life. of aspects all in equally people providing him with dignity in death, and and death, in dignity with him providing a long story, but a good one. one. good a but story, long a
wards a society that treats transgender transgender treats that society a wards and officially documented as male, male, as documented officially and spouse wishes to remain anonymous. It’s It’s anonymous. remain to wishes spouse
action in cases like this as we move to- move we as this like cases in action to ensure that Michael was laid to rest rest to laid was Michael that ensure to those involved, because the surviving surviving the because involved, those
TLDEF will continue to speak out and take take and out speak to continue will TLDEF death certificate. We worked with Nancy Nancy with worked We certificate. death tails below, but changing the names of of names the changing but below, tails
recognition for transgender families. families. transgender for recognition upon recording Michael as female on his his on female as Michael recording upon transgender. They are sharing more de- more sharing are They transgender.
nce of relationship relationship of nce importa the spotlight sex as female, the funeral home insisted insisted home funeral the female, as sex year marriage was void because he was was he because void was marriage year
upended. Stories like Michael and Nancy’s Nancy’s and Michael like Stories upended. Because his birth certificate listed his his listed certificate birth his Because hat their nearly-30- their hat t determination its on
fairly find that their plans and dreams are are dreams and plans their that find fairly Nothing came easily after Michael died. died. Michael after easily came Nothing an her husband’s pension benefits based based benefits pension husband’s her an
the rules and simply want to be treated treated be to want simply and rules the
versed an initial decision to deny the wom- the deny to decision initial an versed
The Road to Victory Victory to Road The
Hard-working people who have played by by played have who people Hard-working major American car manufacturer re- manufacturer car American major
as a man. man. a as are challenged as “void” and “invalid.” “invalid.” and “void” as challenged are man. Following TLDEF’s intervention, a a intervention, TLDEF’s Following man.
ing an authentic life life authentic an ing liv to transition ically ple find that the families they have created created have they families the that find ple victory for the widow of a transgender transgender a of widow the for victory
pleted steps to socially, legally and med- and legally socially, to steps pleted TLDEF is, too. Too often, transgender peo- transgender often, Too too. is, TLDEF
TLDEF is thrilled to announce a major major a announce to thrilled is TLDEF
time of their marriage, Michael had com- had Michael marriage, their of time Nancy is thrilled with the outcome, and and outcome, the with thrilled is Nancy
Major Victory Victory Major
made the decision to marry. And by the the by And marry. to decision the made
since Michael’s death. death. Michael’s since
Michael’s gender transition. But they they But transition. gender Michael’s
along with the back payments she is due due is she payments back the with along
faced many challenges relating to to relating challenges many faced
receiving his pension benefits next month, month, next benefits pension his receiving
easy one. Michael and Nancy together together Nancy and Michael one. easy
Michael’s surviving spouse. She will begin begin will She spouse. surviving Michael’s
not to say that Michael’s journey was an an was journey Michael’s that say to not
news. The company has agreed that she is is she that agreed has company The news.
had been labeled female at birth. That is is That birth. at female labeled been had
Late last week, Nancy received great great received Nancy week, last Late
that Michael was male, even though he he though even male, was Michael that
in the face of all of the evidence. evidence. the of all of face the in ship. To Nancy it had always been clear clear been always had it Nancy To ship. Page 7 7 Page
“The ‘Name Change Project’ is a vital vital a is Project’ Change ‘Name “The try. try. collaboration that will help make life life make help will that collaboration
Name Change Project around the coun- the around Project Change Name
initiatives. “We’re proud to be a part of a a of part a be to proud “We’re initiatives.
ments. We are continuing to expand the the expand to continuing are We ments. and the local co-chair of its pro bono bono pro its of co-chair local the and
Change Project” to Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh. to Project” Change of law firms and corporate legal depart- legal corporate and firms law of member of BNY Mellon’s legal team team legal Mellon’s BNY of member
and BNY Mellon to bring the “Name “Name the bring to Mellon BNY and City through a collaboration with dozens dozens with collaboration a through City do just that,” said Stanley Koepke, a a Koepke, Stanley said that,” just do
Smith decided to partner with TLDEF TLDEF with partner to decided Smith people with name changes in New York York New in changes name with people unique and meaningful opportunity to to opportunity meaningful and unique
pro bono and diversity initiatives, Reed Reed initiatives, diversity and bono pro To date, TLDEF has helped over 1,300 1,300 over helped has TLDEF date, To ‘Name Change Project’ allows us the the us allows Project’ Change ‘Name
workplace equality. In order to further its its further to order In equality. workplace
impact in the world, and our work on the the on work our and world, the in impact
(CEI), the nation’s premier barometer for for barometer premier nation’s the (CEI), “We’re invested in having a positive positive a having in invested “We’re
tion’s 2014 Corporate Equality Index Index Equality Corporate 2014 tion’s truly are.” are.” truly
the Human Rights Campaign Founda- Campaign Rights Human the match their legal names with who they they who with names legal their match
Equality” and earned a perfect score on on score perfect a earned and Equality” the legal procedures and successfully successfully and procedures legal the line with their true selves. selves. true their with line
the “Best Places to Work for LGBT LGBT for Work to Places “Best the transgender people maneuver through through maneuver people transgender trying to bring their legal documents in in documents legal their bring to trying
Reed Smith LLP was also named among among named also was LLP Smith Reed with TLDEF and BNY Mellon to help help to Mellon BNY and TLDEF with cial resource to those who are simply simply are who those to resource cial
“We’re committed to working side by side side by side working to committed “We’re
diversity and inclusion, bringing a cru- a bringing inclusion, and diversity
Director of Global Diversity & Inclusion. Inclusion. & Diversity Global of Director as an extension of its commitment to to commitment its of extension an as
munity.” munity.” Tyree Jones, Reed Smith Partner and and Partner Smith Reed Jones, Tyree through a team of employee volunteers volunteers employee of team a through
easier for Pittsburgh’s transgender com- transgender Pittsburgh’s for easier resource for transgender people,” said said people,” transgender for resource ing TLDEF’s “Name Change Project” Project” Change “Name TLDEF’s ing
past seven years. The company is join- is company The years. seven past
Corporate Equality Index (CEI) for the the for (CEI) Index Equality Corporate
NYC STREET, 29TH WEST 106 man Rights Campaign Foundation’s Foundation’s Campaign Rights man
GALLERY CLUB DIRECTORS ART has earned a perfect score on the Hu- the on score perfect a earned has
Places to Work” for LGBT equality and and equality LGBT for Work” to Places
the Human Rights Campaign’s “Best “Best Campaign’s Rights Human the P.M. 8:30 - 6:30
BNY Mellon was recently named among among named recently was Mellon BNY D'OEUVRES HORS & COCKTAILS
transgender community in Pittsburgh.” Pittsburgh.” in community transgender
Tickets Buy
us bring this resource to the the to resource this bring us
BNY Mellon and Reed Smith for helping helping for Smith Reed and Mellon BNY
dations. We’re tremendously grateful to to grateful tremendously We’re dations.
ing, health care, and public accommo- public and care, health ing,
of discrimination in employment, hous- employment, in discrimination of
far easier for them to live their lives free free lives their live to them for easier far
gal names with who they are makes it it makes are they who with names gal
transgender people, matching their le- their matching people, transgender
Silverman added. “For many many “For added. Silverman
‘Name Change Project’ into Pittsburgh,” Pittsburgh,” into Project’ Change ‘Name
“We’re thrilled to be expanding our our expanding be to thrilled “We’re
ple through the name change process.” process.” change name the through ple
LLP, TLDEF will help transgender peo- transgender help will TLDEF LLP,
lawyers at BNY Mellon and Reed Smith Smith Reed and Mellon BNY at lawyers
Silverman. “With pro bono support from from support bono pro “With Silverman.
TLDEF Executive Director, Michael Michael Director, Executive TLDEF
gal system for a name change,” said said change,” name a for system gal
transgender people to navigate the le- the navigate to people transgender
often difficult and intimidating for for intimidating and difficult often
names to match who they are. “It is is “It are. they who match to names
who are seeking to change their legal legal their change to seeking are who
legal assistance for transgender people people transgender for assistance legal
The “Name Change Project” provides provides Project” Change “Name The
region. region.
to transgender people in the Pittsburgh Pittsburgh the in people transgender to
Name Change Project is now available available now is Project Change Name
TLDEF is happy to announce that our our that announce to happy is TLDEF
in Pittsburgh Pittsburgh in
Name Change Project Project Change Name
CORDIALLY ARE YOU THE TO INVITED Page 8 8 Page
for details and how to apply. apply. to how and details for
Go to Job Description Description Job to Go
tion. tion.
namic and quickly growing organiza- growing quickly and namic
polished, positive image for this dy- this for image positive polished,
lationships and the ability to present a a present to ability the and lationships
professional approach to business re- business to approach professional
and oral communication skills, a highly highly a skills, communication oral and
candidate will possess strong written written strong possess will candidate
the community and beyond. An ideal ideal An beyond. and community the
businesses as well as other entities in in entities other as well as businesses
tors, Corporate Investors and member member and Investors Corporate tors,
CPGLCC President, Board of Direc- of Board President, CPGLCC
mission through collaboration with the the with collaboration through mission
Executive Director will promote this this promote will Director Executive
business community. The part-time part-time The community. business
tion, and partnerships with the local local the with partnerships and tion,
businesses through advocacy, educa- advocacy, through businesses
interests of LGBT owned and allied allied and owned LGBT of interests
committed to expanding the economic economic the expanding to committed
Lesbian Chamber of Commerce is is Commerce of Chamber Lesbian
The Central Pennsylvania Gay and and Gay Pennsylvania Central The
tification. tification.
the opportunity to attain LGBTBE Cer- LGBTBE attain to opportunity the
vania and affords qualified members members qualified affords and vania
nity to businesses in Central Pennsyl- Central in businesses to nity
connect the LGBTA business commu- business LGBTA the connect
CPGLCC is uniquely positioned to to positioned uniquely is CPGLCC
(NGLCC) in the commonwealth, the the commonwealth, the in (NGLCC) team for the walk here.) here.) walk the for team
Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Commerce of Chamber Lesbian 17, you can sign up as a "virtual walker." (Or, simply support our Center Staff Staff Center our support simply (Or, walker." "virtual a as up sign can you 17,
two affiliates of the National Gay and and Gay National the of affiliates two -- even if you can't make it on May May on it make can't you if even -- CENTER THE WITH WALK TO UP SIGN
in the capital region. As only one of of one only As region. capital the in
ier community. community. ier
creating an inclusive business climate climate business inclusive an creating
members, neighbors, and co-workers to join you in walking to ensure a health- a ensure to walking in you join to co-workers and neighbors, members,
Pennsylvania and is a driving force in in force driving a is and Pennsylvania
Mark Saturday, May 17, 2014 on your calendar and gather friends, family family friends, gather and calendar your on 2014 17, May Saturday, Mark
business community of South Central Central South of community business
comes directly to The Center to support our mission. mission. our support to Center The to directly comes CPGLCC serves the LGBT and allied allied and LGBT the serves CPGLCC
writes the cost of the walk so that that so walk the of cost the writes 100% of the money raised by our walkers walkers our by raised money the of 100% organization and its mission. The The mission. its and organization
tral Pennsylvania, such as The LGBT Center. Highmark Blue Shield under- Shield Blue Highmark Center. LGBT The as such Pennsylvania, tral Board of Directors and promote the the promote and Directors of Board
The Walk is a fundraiser that benefits 45 local nonprofit organizations in cen- in organizations nonprofit local 45 benefits that fundraiser a is Walk The ried Executive Director to support the the support to Director Executive ried
(CPGLCC) is seeking a part-time sala- part-time a seeking is (CPGLCC)
Community College. College. Community
Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Commerce of Chamber Lesbian
May 17, 2014 at Harrisburg Area Area Harrisburg at 2014 17, May
The Central Pennsylvania Gay and and Gay Pennsylvania Central The
Highmark Blue Shield on Saturday, Saturday, on Shield Blue Highmark
Healthy Community presented by by presented Community Healthy Executive Director Search Search Director Executive
ticipating in the Highmark Walk for a a for Walk Highmark the in ticipating
The LGBT Center of Central PA is par- is PA Central of Center LGBT The
Healthy Community Community Healthy
Walk for a a for Walk Page 9 9 Page