Have you heard about the Marsha and Sylvia Plan yet?

Join us for our “The Marsha & Sylvia Plan” Listening Session Tuesday, November 28, at The Center (208 W. 13 St, Room 101) from 6-9 p.m.

What is the Marsha and Sylvia Plan? To ensure New York City’s policy agenda meets the needs of LGBTQIA+ New Yorkers, this roundtable is to discuss policy opportunities relevant to our community, identify new needs and issues missing from the current plan, and focus the LGBTQIA+ Caucus for the upcoming legislative session and budget process. These roundtables will inform an updated 'The Marsha & Sylvia Plan,' set to be released in the summer of 2024

Register here

Saturday, December 9, at The Center (208 W. 13 St) from 2-6 p.m.

The Center invites you to a one-of-a-kind experience at our Black Holiday Market, celebrating the vibrant spirit of Black LGBTQ+ small business owners. Dive into a world of exquisite crafts, delectable treats, and a community spirit that celebrates diversity with every purchase. The event is free and open to all.

RSVP today!

SAGE, the world's largest organization for LGBTQ elders and older New Yorkers living with HIV, celebrates the passage of Int. 564 by the New York City Council. This bill, led by Council Members Tiffany Cabán and Crystal Hudson, establishes an LGBTQ elder-focused commission within the NYC Department of the Aging. The legislation aims to address unique challenges faced by LGBTQ elders, recognizing their history of discrimination and health disparities. The commission, with representatives from LGBTQ advocacy groups, will investigate and report on the diverse needs of LGBTQ older adults and those with HIV, marking a significant stride towards equitable access to culturally competent services for all older New Yorkers.

#GivingTuesday is coming up on November 28. The Center has long been a valued gathering place for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, and our programs and services support thousands of LGBTQ+ youth and adults each year. As you consider which nonprofits to support on #GivingTuesday, please keep The Center in mind. We would be nothing without your continued support. Sincerely, thank you! Donate to The Center today!

The 2023 election has brought forth remarkable achievements for LGBTQ rights, shining a light on the strides made in Virginia, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Pennsylvania. Here are some of the highlights around the country:

• Kentucky: Re-election of Governor Andy Beshear, who vetoed anti-transgender bills.
• Virginia: Pro-equality majority in the state Senate and the election of Danica Roem, the first openly transgender state senator in the Southern United States.
• Mississippi: Election of the state’s first out gay lawmaker, Fabian Nelson.
• Pennsylvania: Philadelphia elected its first woman as mayor, Cherelle Parker, and its first LGBTQ person elected to city council, Rue Landau.