Interest Survey: Support Group for LGBTQ People of Color

Link: https://goo.gl/forms/ijfWRtO16wk63JFv1

The DC Center for the LGBT Community is considering starting a support group for LGBTQ people of color. The aim of this group is to support and address the issues that people of color in the LGBTQ communities may be struggling.

We are excited about this opportunity, and we hope you are, too! Please take a few minutes to answer the questions. Your responses will help us gauge general interest and help shape the structure of the support group.

Link: https://goo.gl/forms/ijfWRtO16wk63JFv1

If you have any questions or suggestions, please also feel free to email Ping, ping@thedccenter.org.

 

Photo credit: What’s Happening Tulsa

Meet Dr. Zelaika Hepworth Clarke

September 4,  Virgo

Dr. Clarke is a staff social worker at the Center. They provide counseling services for individuals, couples and groups. They also offer consulting and training services for the support groups held at the Center. They conduct social work assessment and check-ins for Center Global clients.

Dr. Clarke’s work is made possible with support from the Centerlink-Johnson Family Foundation Mental Health Initiative.

Why did you start working at The DC Center?

I am committed to serving communities that have historically been marginalized and face multiple oppressive forces. I specialize in human sexuality and gender diversity and am passionate about  improving the wellbeing for individuals, couples (& polycules), and families living their truth and loving despite heterosexism, homonegativitiy, patriarchy, bi-erasure, monosexism etc..

What is your  music anthem?

I enjoy listening to the radio as I like knowing that I am not the only one jamming to a specific song in the moment but sharing tunes with my community simultaneously.

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?

I love the love. I love to see couples/lovers/polycules  love each other despite society telling them they should  not.

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?

I am still new to the area and have much to explore. I have been enjoying the aesthetic of the architecture and monuments as well as the river. I love watching planes fly by while overlooking the Potomac river at Gravelly Point Park.

What do you think the LGBTQ+ community needs to improve on?

There are still oppressive forces at work in the community. Eliminating racism, cissexism, monosexism, biphobia, transphobia etc both internally and within the community should be prioritized.  I would like to see more work on creating inclusive spaces and events. For example,  if bisexuals/pansexuals/omnisexuals/queer folks happen to have partner(s) of a different gender they can be excluded from some queer events. Also in spaces for all “women” or “men” it tends to leave out non-binary folks, genderqueers, two-spirit, intersex and people of trans experience. Dominant narratives of LGBT+ folks seem dominated by white cisgender mononormative representations; I would love to see more diverse representations of the community including in leadership positions.

What is your favorite Queer movie?

Some good ones that come to mind are: I am Not Your Negro, Stud Life, Pariah, Naz and Maalik, Blackbird, Still Black:A Portrait of Black Transman, 195 Lewis ….

What has been your favorite moment while working in The DC Center?

I love to transform people’s affect and inspire epiphanies, breakthroughs, and healing in my clients recovering from trauma committed to self-growth.

What clothing item is a staple in your wardrobe?

Stilettos and bowties – sometimes my femme or androgynous self likes to dress up.

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?

I think it would be fun to feature different  artist’s  work be displayed (murals, mosaics, paintings etc.) on the outside every month.  

Who do you most look up to in the queer community?

I admire the queer people who inhabitat nations with compulsory heterosexuality and where laws deny their right(s) to love, safety and respect. There are still many areas where it is extremely dangerous for people to exist and live their truth. I admire those who risk death simply by being authentically themselves.  

 

Meet Juan

This is a weekly newsletter to put a face to the staff at the DC Center. Every week we will be featuring a staff member. This week, meet Juan! Juan is our Development Intern.

Juan

Aquarius

Why did you start working at The DC Center?

I’m apart of a program that takes university students from the west coast, and places them in washington D.C.. Part of the program having a local internship, and I knew I wanted to work in a field that deals with LGBT folks. It doesn’t more in the queer field than a community center!

What is music anthem?

Not to be too young, but Be Alright by Ms. Ariana Grande and Pillowtalk by Zayn Malik

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?

Honestly, the resilience I see in the folks of our community is one my favorite traits. I love seeing a queer or gender non-conforming individual simply daring to exist in spaces that dont want use to be there. Also, the humor a lot of the members in our community poses is one of my favorite things to indulge in. It’s cathartic being able to laugh at shared pain and experiences with strangers.

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?

I’ve recently relocated to the D.C. area, so I don’t know too much about anything here. BUT, there is a cute little ramen shop I’ve been to a few times that I love to go to.

What do you think the LGBTQ+ community needs to improve on?

Oh man. Alright, coming from the perspective of cisgendered gay Mexican man I notice the violence against womxn does not differ from our straight male peers. Gay men love to utilize feminine culture as part of our lives and humor, yet are quick to harm non-male identifying individuals.

What is your favorite Queer movie?

Road to El Derado.

What has been your favorite moment while working in The DC Center?

Beginning to understand how important the center is. With of all of its’ branches and programs offered, the folks here at the center are honestly dedicated to doing important work needed in our community. I also love heading back home everyday and telling my housemates how gay my day was.

What clothing item is a staple in your wardrobe?

I wear the same brand of shoes everyday like a cartoon character who never changes outfits. Plus, my beautiful smile.

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?

My favorite color is baby pink and orange, so I’d paint it a nice forest green.

Who do you most look up to in the queer community?

Every single one of my queer friends. Like I said before, daring to exist and be is a brave and beautiful thing to accomplish everyday.

Recruiting Smokers with HIV (Truth Initiative)

 

We are seeking volunteers to participate in a research study being done to understand how to create a quit smoking program for people in the Washington, D.C. area who have HIV and who smoke. We want to understand what type of support system, types of messages, and ways of providing support are best for people living with HIV. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, have HIV infection, currently smoke cigarettes every day, and not currently have any major medical condition (such as heart disease not controlled by medication). Participants receive up to $125.

Two study visits are required, which will last approximately 1 hour each. All participants will get advice on how to quit smoking. Some participants will be signed up for a text messaging program, which will last for 30 days.

If you are interested, please contact study staff at 202-454-5746 or lkierstead@truthinitiative.org.

Principal Investigator: Jessica Elf, Chesapeake IRB Protocol #: Pro00022163

Recruiting for TEAM Training Study (GW Cancer Center)

LGBT Cancer Project

TEAM (Together – Equitable – Accessible – Meaningful) Training Study

*en español abajo*

The TEAM education program aims to improve the productivity of patient-provider interactions to promote accessible, equitable and patient-centered care that results in better health outcomes for those impacted by cancer.

We are actively recruiting individuals for telephone interviews who have experienced a diagnosis of cancer, who identify as female, transgender, or genderqueer, and who identify as a:

  • Racial minority (e.g. African American, African Immigrant, Native American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, Asian American, Middle Eastern etc.)​
  • Ethnic minority (e.g. Hispani​​c/Latinx)​​
  • Sexual minority (e.g. Lesbian, Bisexual, Pansexual, etc.)​
  • R​eligious minority (e.g. Muslim, Jewish, Jehovah’s Witness, Buddhist, Hindu, Atheist, Agnostic, etc.​)
  • Resident of a rural area​

Our team at GW is conducting interviews in English and Spanish to inform the development of educational resources for health care providers. Call 202-823-3376 Monday-Saturday between 9am-9pm ET if you would like to participate or learn more! You will receive a $50 Amazon gift card if you complete the focus group.

 

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Ha recibido un diagnostico de cancer? Cuentenos su historia. Los investigadores del Centro de Cancer de la Universidad George Washington estan buscando personas para participar en una entrevista grupal que:

  • Tengan 18 años de edad o mas
  • Recibieron atencion medica por un diagnostico de cancer en Estados Unidos
  • Se identifican como mujeres, transgenero o genderqueer

 

Llamen al 202-823-3853 de lunes a sabado de 9am a 9pm ET si desea participar o conocer mas! Recibira una tarjeta de regalo de Amazon de $50 si completa la entrevista grupal. Vea el volante abajo para mas informacion.

 

 

Meet Lamar

This is a weekly newsletter to put a face to the staff at the DC Center. Every week we will be featuring a staff member. This week, meet Lamar! Lamar is our Outgoing Support Desk. He assists ALL office administrative efforts, including cutting the checks, making bank deposits, responding to emails, updating the website, ordering office supplies, working closely with the Director, and so much more.

Lamar Trowers

June 10, Gemini

 

Why did you start working at The DC Center?

 

I started working at the DC Center as a volunteer, then moved to be on staff, I had recently moved from Jamaica, and the DC Center had a program called Center Global that assists refugees and asylum seekers, they assisted me and I decided to give my time to an organization that is dedicated to the betterment of the LGBT Community.

 

What is music anthem?

August Alsina feat Nicki Minaj – No Love

 

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?

I love the fact that the DC community is very supportive of our community center. I also love the fact that no matter what we can come together in times of need.

 

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?

I don’t really have a spot, my favorite thing to do in DC is riding my bike all around the city, I love love how DC is getting even more bike friendly.

 

What do you think the LGBTQ+ community needs to improve on?

The LGBT Community could help in some ways with homelessness LGBT population ( young and seniors)

 

What is your favorite Queer movie?

Milk ( Harvey Milk )

 

What has been your favorite moment while working in The DC Center?

I loved working at the DC Center because I feel like I am the bridge of information to people who may need information about a center service in the area. I also enjoyed the sex positive environment in our work space. The management of the center allows us to be our true self and let us take on roles we never dreamt of taking on.

 

What clothing item is a staple in your wardrobe?

Lol, I worked at a strip club as a waiter and I have lots of underwear “lots”. I buy them weekly.

 

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?

I think the white house is fine the way it is.

 

Who do you most look up to in the queer community?

I am fascinated with Rupaul , I mean she brought a drag show right into the homes of everyone. She gave those “weird” people a spotlight to shine and show that they are more than drag queens, they are humans and talented at that.

Meet Chris

This is a weekly newsletter to put a face to the staff at the DC Center. Every week we will be featuring a staff member. This week, meet Chris! Chris is our Office Administrator. He is in charge of the administrative and office support activities , making updates to the DC Center website, and disseminating information through our social media sites, including Facebook and Twitter.

Chris Rothermel

June 4, Gemini

Why did you start working at The DC Center?

I started working at the DC Center to get involved and support the local LGBTQ+ community. I knew the DC Center did a lot of different things, and I wanted to help organize.  

 

What is music anthem?

Rhiannon by Stevie Nicks or Xanadu by Olivia Newton John would be my anthem.

 

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?

My favorite part of the LGBTQ+ community is that it is constantly growing and evolving.

 

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?

My favorite spot in DC is my home with my cats.  I like to play video games and nap. A close tie for second place would be Cusbah or Sticky Rice on H St. NE, I like to eat there.  

 

What do you think the LGBTQ+ community needs to improve on?

I think the LGBTQ+ community needs to be better about being inclusive and supporting each other. I also think the community could use its collective power to create systemic change better.

 

What is your favorite Queer movie?

My favorite Queer movie is Better than Chocolate.

 

What has been your favorite moment while working in The DC Center?

My favorite moment working at the DC Center is when I learn something new.

 

What clothing item is a staple in your wardrobe?

I like to wear expensive ties and underwear that I didn’t pay full price for.

 

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?

I think I would like a Blue House instead.

 

Who do you most look up to in the queer community?

I look up to everyone that has the courage to devote their lives to standing up for people who don’t have a voice in society at the expense of their own safety and comfort. Charles King, JD Davids, Aryka Chapman, Ruby Corado, David Mariner, Kaytee Ray-Reik, and Michael Rajner are the first few people that come to the forefront of my mind.

Meet Ping-Hsuan

This is a weekly newsletter to put a face to the staff at the DC Center. Every week we will be featuring a staff member. This week, meet Ping! Ping is our general intern. This summer Ping has been working with Shareese on End Violence Against Sex Workers and with Dee Curry on Solutions to Wellness Conference and Awards Banquet.

Ping-Hsuan Wang

July 12, Cancer
Why did you start working at The DC Center?

I started out volunteering and soon I grew to love the feeling of being part of the community by participating in the events. I wanted to do a little bit more by joining the team and helping organize some of the events, where I get to interact with awesome people in real life.

What is music anthem?

Jie Mei (姊妹) by A-Mei (1996). It’s the anthem for many gay men in Taiwan, I believe. The heartwarming message unites us.

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?

The activism. Every time I look back on the progress we’ve made over time, I feel pumped to go even further. The energy coming from all of us as a community even in times of setbacks keeps me motivated. This collective endeavor to make lives better continues to inspire me.

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?

Roosevelt Island. It’s on Potomac River but it’s still part of DC. It’s a great place for a walk to escape the city, even when it’s pouring. I love taking a walk or jogging or simply sitting on a bench somewhere to enjoy the time alone.

What do you think the LGBTQ+ community needs to improve on?

Communication. We have such diversity within the community that sometimes there are misunderstandings that stands in the way of accomplishing great work. I think communication is the key to having all the different voices being heard, from which we can start to address the different needs and concerns our members have to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment. 

What is your favorite Queer movie?

Somewhere I Have Never Travelled/帶我去遠方 (2009). I didn’t know it was a Queer movie when I went to the cinema but I was bawling when I left as the sense of loss and not fitting in resonated so much.

What has been your favorite moment while working in The DC Center?

That moment when someone from Alaska visited the Center and I showed her around and provided some resources she was looking for, I felt how directly impactful the work we are doing is on people’s lives.

What clothing item is a staple in your wardrobe?

I love layers. If I have to pick just one item, it’d be vests. They’re versatile; casual yet professional. I also love the feeling of being hugged tightly around my waist (by a vest).

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?

Navy blue. I just love that color.

Who do you most look up to in the queer community?

My professors at National Central University, including Fifi Ding and Hans Huang, who are as actively involved and outspoken in the classroom as they are on the street as activists.