Articles from the Constitution State
Russell speaks out
Connecticut State Treasurer Erick Russell, himself an openly gay man, penned a February 28 op/ed in the Hartford Courant calling out recent proposed state legislation targeting transgender children:
“It’s the responsibility of government to represent everybody. That might sound obvious—it’s one of first things we learn about American democracy—but even those elected to positions of power often fall short of this most fundamental obligation. The democracy that serves as the beating heart of this country is its strongest when it’s being shaped by everyone.
“Despite the deep partisan divides that fuel news coverage and online arguments, I believe the overwhelming majority of Americans would agree with that statement. Most of us want the same things: opportunities for ourselves and our loved ones, dignity in our communities and workplaces, and security – both personally and economically.
“I’ve been proud to serve in Connecticut government at a time when we’ve largely side-stepped toxic national fights to instead focus on our collective economic success and the well-being of our residents.
“Last week, however, several Connecticut lawmakers proposed legislation targeting transgender children. The proposal represents another extension of the fanaticism that has overtaken national politics. It is a brazen and obvious attempt to limit who enjoys the rights and the opportunities that are guaranteed to all Americans. This extreme vision being presented across the country, and now being peddled here in Connecticut, purports to believe in American rights and freedoms, but seeks to limit those rights to some Americans and exclude others. …
“Data shows that LGBTQ youth, particularly trans kids, already experience higher rates of suicide and depression. Beyond the numbers, there are horrifying individual accounts of violence including Nex Benedict, an Oklahoma teen who was beaten at school earlier this month and died the next day. Lost in the vitriol of the churning culture war is basic human empathy for kids who deserve a chance to grow up and shape their own future.”
Youth scholarships
The Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber Foundation and the New Haven Pride Center are partnering with The Health Collective to begin a scholarship program to help LGBTQIA+ seniors in high school.
Students can apply until June 20, and scholarships will be given after July 1.
New Haven Pride Center Director Juancarlos Soto characterized the scholarships to the Hartford Courant as “a testament to our collective dedication to creating a world where every young person can achieve their dreams and contribute to a more equitable and compassionate society, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.”
Said Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber Director John Pica-Sneeden, they “aim to empower today’s youth, offering support that enables them to reach their own versions of success and fulfillment.”
More: newhavenpridecenter.org
Pride in the Park
On June 8, the Triangle Community Center will host their annual Pride in the Park event.
The celebration takes place at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Norwalk from noon to 8 p.m. The rain date is June 9. Those interested in volunteering, performing or being vendors including food trucks at the event are able to sign up at ctpridecenter.org.
TCC is home to dozens of free support, recovery and social groups that cater to the diverse community of LGBTQ+ folks, their families, friends and allies.
More: ctpridecenter.org
West Hartford Pride
This year’s West Hartford Pride Festival events take place from June 1 to 22.
Here’s the scoop from the source: “West Hartford Pride is an incredible month-long celebration ending in a festival day filled with joy, storytelling and opportunities to network and connect with family, friends and statewide resources.”
Events include a flag raising, a walk/run, a comedy show, a concert with the CT Gay Men’s Chorus and more.
More: WestHartfordPride.org
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