This Just in from the Ocean State
Lawsuit against HHS
Along with attorneys general from 15 other states and the District of Columbia, Rhode Island AG Peter Neronha is suing the US Department of Health and Human Services to prevent HHS from pulling the funding for teen reproductive and sexual health education programs unless they remove language concerning gender identity.
Approximately $600K in grant funding is at risk in Rhode Island.
The other states include Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Washington and Wisconsin.
Court victory
A federal judge in Rhode Island handed four arts organizations, including RI Latino Arts, a victory against the Trump administration in their challenge to the National Endowment for the Arts’ (NEA) implementation of one of the president’s anti-trans executive orders.
In his September 19 decision, district court judge William E. Smith, a George W. Bush appointee, ruled that the NEA’s recent policy requiring all grant applicants to certify that “federal funds shall not be used to promote gender ideology” violates the First Amendment and the Administrative Procedure Act (APA).
RIP Bishop Rockwell
Hays Hamilton Rockwell, former Episcopal Bishop of Missouri and rector of St. James Church in New York City died at his family home in Rhode Island.
For nearly seven decades, Bishop Rockwell served as a clergyman. He was a staunch supporter of including women and gay people as Episcopal clergy.
Rockwell graduated from Brown in 1958, subsequently serving as Chaplain at St. George’s School in Middletown. In 2003, Rockwell threw his support behind the consecration of his friend Gene Robinson, the first openly gay priest to be made bishop in the Episcopal church and, although his election led to a schism in the church, Rockwell’s support for him never wavered.
When Rockwell retired, he returned to his beloved Rhode Island where he wrote, reflected and traveled, joining the Hope Club of Providence and The Dunes Club of Narragansett.
Rockwell was 88.
Gay flag football superbowl
In early October, the PVDGFFL participated in Gay Bowl XXV, held in San Diego, along with over 200 teams from across the country. An elite team, chosen in a draft from over 300 players, representing Rhode Island and portions of MA and CT, was sent to compete.
The PVDGFFL was founded in 2018, and welcomes players of all abilities. According to Commissioner Chris Almonte, the overwhelming majority of the players are part of the LGBTQ+ community, but straight allies who are interested in supporting and elevating the community are also welcome. “I joined this league looking for football,” says Almonte, “but I’ve found so much more.”
Queer holiday events
Rhode Island Gay Men’s Chorus is putting on their annual holiday show. This year’s theme? “Warm & Fuzzy.” Showtimes: Friday and Saturday, December 5 and 6, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, December 7, at 3 p.m., all at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center, 2115 Broad St., Cranston.
Enjoy an evening of hands-on holiday cocktail-making with drag performances, laughter and more at Hope Events on Main. Perfect for groups, this holiday edition promises to be equal parts sass, sparkle and seasonal spirits. Ticket price includes drinks, food and drag. 999 Main St, Pawtucket.
On December 17, 7-9 p.m., put your mental powers to the test with Holiday Hoopla Drag Trivia, featuring host Ladda Nerve. Organized by Haus of Codec. (Bring an item from their holiday wish list for a 100-point bonus.) $100 prize for winning team. Black Sheep, 397 Westminster St., Providence.
And on December 26, 6-7 p.m., Newport Pride Center holds a holiday rendition of its Last Friday Social, a regular LGBTQ+ social with music, light drinks and snacks. Newport Pride Center, 42 Spring St, Ste. 2, Newport.