This Just in from the Ocean State
National landmark
In an apparent response to the lack of representation of the LGBTQ+ community in Rhode Island’s historical records, Providence is on track to add a designated LGBTQ+ landmark to the National Register of Historic Places.
The Providence Preservation Society (PPS) was awarded nearly $75,000 from the National Park Service to research sites associated with LGBTQ+ history and to nominate a location for the register over the next two years, considering locations of historic events, significant gathering places and more.
“There are thousands of sites in Rhode Island that are on the national register,” PPS Executive Director Marisa Brown told the Providence Journal. “But there is not one that was listed solely because of its history and relationship to LGBTQ+ histories.”
Gender-affirming care protection
In early February, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha joined 14 other attorneys general, issuing a joint statement regarding their commitment to protecting access to gender-affirming care.
In a statement, the group said, “Gender-affirming care is essential, life-saving medical treatment that supports individuals in living as their authentic selves.”
Furthermore, the group pledged that they will not hesitate to take further legal action, should the actions of the Trump administration warrant it. The other attorneys general participating represent California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
GRID Gallery opens
A new nonprofit arts organization called GRID Gallery has opened at 105 Wickenden Street in Providence, Rhode Island, with a mission to “to provide [LGBTQIA2S+ and BIPOC] artists with the tools, mentorship and community they need to thrive in an industry where their voices have long been marginalized,” reports Providence Online.
“We are creating a public commons space for Queer and BIPOC photographers, where they can find not just a platform to showcase their work, but also opportunities for professional development,” the gallery’s executive director, Nacho Amor, told Online. “We’re helping these artists navigate the often-murky waters of the art world, from getting their work in galleries to learning how to price it and network effectively.”
In the spring, GRID is launching the lecture series, “Breaking Barriers: A Guide to Navigating the Art Market for Queer BIPOC Photographers and Their Allies.” Check the gallery’s website for updates on this series as well as more on current and upcoming exhibitions.
More: gridgalleryri.org
ACOS turns 35
A Mardi Gras Gala will be held on March 7 at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston to commemorate AIDS Care Ocean State’s 35 years of service to Rhode Island.
Guests will enjoy live entertainment, comedy, dancing, traditional Mardi Gras dinner and an awards ceremony. A Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to ACOS founder, Paul Fitzgerald.
Doors open at 7 p.m. for a cocktail hour, followed by dinner at 8 p.m.
More: aidscareoc.harnessgiving.org/events/2625
Fundraisers sought
Haus of Codec is recruiting driven fundraising enthusiasts and event planners to help coordinate their Fundraising Event in October 2025.
If you are passionate about providing emergency housing services to LGBTQQIA+ Youth, they are looking for help in selling tickets, soliciting sponsorships, creating a buzz on social media and more.
More: linktr.ee/hausofcodec
Workplace equality leaders
In January, the Human Rights Campaign announced its 2025 list of “Equality 100 Award: Leader in LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion” honorees from their annual Corporate Equality Index, and seven of them are based in Rhode Island.
Top scorers in Rhode Island are Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island in Providence; Citizens Financial Group, Providence; CVS Health Corp., Woonsocket; Gilbane Building Co., Providence; IGT, Providence; Providence City Employment; and United Natural Foods, Inc., Providence.
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