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Saying Goodbye to Senator Dianne Feinstein, A Longtime LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate

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Dianne Feinstein (1933 – 2023), the U.S. Senator from California, has long been a prominent figure in American politics, holding a seat in the Senate since 1992. Throughout her political career, Feinstein has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Her legislative efforts and support for policies promoting equality and anti-discrimination have had a national impact on the LGBTQ+ movement.

Advocacy for Marriage Equality

One of Feinstein’s significant contributions to LGBTQ+ rights is her unwavering support for marriage equality. She was a vocal opponent of Proposition 8, a California ballot proposition that sought to ban same-sex marriage. Feinstein’s advocacy was instrumental in the fight against this proposition, emphasizing the importance of equal rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation. Her support for marriage equality was a crucial component in the broader movement that eventually led to the nationwide legalization of same-sex marriage in 2015.

Opposition to “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

Feinstein played a pivotal role in opposing the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) policy, which was enacted in 1994 under former President Bill Clinton. This policy prohibited openly LGBTQ+ individuals from serving in the United States military, leading to the discharge of thousands of service members simply because of their sexual orientation. The eventual repeal of DADT in 2011 marked a significant victory for LGBTQ+ rights, allowing service members to serve openly and authentically.

Support for Anti-Discrimination Legislation

Feinstein has consistently supported legislation aimed at preventing discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. She has been a proponent of bills seeking to extend anti-discrimination protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity, ensuring equal rights in employment, housing, education, and public services.

Advocacy for Transgender Rights

In addition to her support for the broader LGBTQ+ community, Feinstein has been an advocate for the rights of transgender individuals. She has supported policies and legislation that affirm the rights of transgender people, including access to healthcare, protection from discrimination, and the right to serve in the military. Feinstein’s advocacy underscores her understanding of the diverse needs within the LGBTQ+ community and her commitment to addressing the specific challenges faced by transgender individuals.

A True Ally

Dianne Feinstein’s enduring support for LGBTQ+ rights has been a defining aspect of her political career. From her advocacy for marriage equality to her opposition to discriminatory policies like “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” Feinstein has been a stalwart ally of the LGBTQ+ community. While the journey towards full equality continues, the contributions of allies like Dianne Feinstein play a crucial role in advancing the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals across the nation.

Feinstein’s Career Dates Back to 1978

1. Mayor of San Francisco (1978–1988):

  • Dianne Feinstein served as the Mayor of San Francisco for ten years. She first assumed the role following the assassination of Mayor George Moscone and was subsequently elected in her own right, serving two terms.

2. Member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors (1970–1978):

  • Before becoming mayor, Feinstein served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors for eight years, representing the interests of her constituents and working on local legislation and policies.

3. U.S. Senator from California (1992–Present):

  • Feinstein has been serving as a United States Senator representing California since 1992. In this role, she has worked on a wide range of issues, including gun control, national security, healthcare, and LGBTQ+ rights, among others.

4. Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee (2009–2015):

  • Feinstein served as the chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, overseeing the nation’s intelligence agencies and working on issues related to national security and intelligence.

5. Chair of the Senate Rules Committee (2007–2009):

  • She also chaired the Senate Rules Committee, which is responsible for overseeing matters related to the rules and administration of the Senate.

6. Member of Various Senate Committees:

  • Over her tenure as a U.S. Senator, Feinstein has been a member of several other Senate committees, contributing to legislation and policies on issues such as judiciary, appropriations, and energy, among others.

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Join The ‘My Family’ Project

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Calling all families! Whether you’re gay, straight, pansexual, poly, a drag family–we’d love to hear from you. We’re looking for families who are willing to be photographed for our ‘My Family’ project. 

Love Defines A Family

Every day, members of the LGBTQ community challenge traditional definitions of what it means to be a family. With recent strides in marriage equality, the definition of ‘family’ continues to evolve, weaving new, diverse threads into our nation’s social fabric.

Coastal Virginia is home to many LGBTQ families and this project is to demonstrate wide diversity and normality found in our community. While each family featured are unique and make integral contributions to the quality of life in Coastal Virginia, the universal truth found in each family is the love they share for one another — proof that love defines a family.

Strong Bonds

The Beale Family – “I accept everybody and by accepting everyone, I am able to create a place where everyone respects each other from gays to lesbians. We are all one.”

The Higgins-Redmond Family – “Family is unconditional love, support and devotion. Family is the safe space to protect you from the harsh realities of the world.”

The White Family – “Family for us is beyond the need for a common relative. We see family as a covenant agreement signed with the love and commitment of people of diverse cultural backgrounds. Thus, making family as beautiful as a rainbow.”

The Britton Family – “Family is defined by the people who support, care and love you for who you are, despite who you choose to love, how you live your life or how you present yourself. It’s connecting on a deeper level with love and support without criticism or conditions.”

 

Show Us How You Love

‘My Family’ is about celebrating the diversity of LGBTQ families. From drag families to trans families to adopted families, we believe that love defines a family and are committed to showing Hampton Roads who we are and how we challenge traditional definitions.

Past families have included same-sex couples, drag families, adopted children of same-sex couples, and more! Can your family help us evolve our community’s definition? Email us at info@lgbtlifecenter.org or call 757-640-0929 and ask to speak to Corey Mohr. 

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TIES Pop-Up: Norfolk Edition

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TIES Pop-Up Comes to Norfolk

Last fall we told you about TIES, the Transgender Information and Empowerment Summit, happening in Richmond. That event was a huge success (we sent 8 people from Hampton Roads!). It was so successful, in fact, that TIES is hitting the the road and doing pop-ups across the commonwealth.

You can join TIES for their Norfolk Pop-up on July 21 at the Slover Library. The event is being co hosted by Equality Virginia and the Transgender Assistance Program of Virginia. The event will take place from 4-9 pm, and is free, but does require registration. Click here to register >>

TIES Pop-ups will provide the best of what TIES has to offer, including …

… trans-affirming mental health & medical consultations
… name & gender marker change clinic
… employment readiness training
… how-to-tell-your-story advocacy workshops
… get to know community organizations & resources.

Learn more details about TIES Pop-up: Norfolk by visiting their Facebook event, here.

This event is co-hosted by Transgender Assistance Program (TAP),  which aims to end homelessness within the transgender community in the commonwealth of Virginia. Learn more about TAP by visiting their Facebook page.

Say Hi

LGBT Life Center will be at the event, and our staff, including our Clinical Director of Mental Health Services, will be on hand to answer questions; everything from gender marker change information to hormone therapy to services and support we can offer.

Q & A with Vee Lamneck, Deputy Director, Equality Virginia

We caught up with Vee Lamneck (pronouns: they/them) to learn more about TIES, and why a roadshow is important and necessary:

Q: WHY DO WE NEED TIES EVENTS?

A: It’s really important for trans and gender diverse folks to feel a sense of community and to feel connected to each other. TIES creates a safe space for people to come together and be themselves. I hope that everyone who attends TIES events is able to walk away knowing at least one new person. While all of the information and resources available at TIES is important, the personal connections that people make can be even more impactful.

 

Q: WHY DO WE NEED A TIES POP-UP IN NORFOLK OR ANYWHERE IN VA?

A: There are many reasons to host the local TIES Pop-Ups. One is logistical; for many folks, the burden of traveling to Richmond is too great. We hope that bringing the Pop-Ups to different parts of Virginia can help ease that.  We also want to show the strength of resources already available in the local community. There are so many local groups doing important work in Norfolk, and the Pop-Ups are an opportunity to highlight these valuable avenues of support.

 

Q: WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACCOMPLISH WITH THIS EVENT?

A: From learning about healthcare options to answering legal questions, from accessing employment opportunities to gaining tips for advocating for pro-equality policies, TIES is about empowering the trans community. We want attendees to leave with the tools they need to live as their authentic selves.

 

Q: WILL THE TIES POP-UP BE DIFFERENT THAN THE TIES CONFERENCE IN RICHMOND? HOW?

A: Put simply, the Pop-Up is a condensed, mini-version of the regular TIES conference – for example, the Pop-Up will offer only four workshops, while the conference in Richmond will offer closer to 30 workshop sessions. But, the Pop-Up will still provide many of the same resources that the Richmond event offers, including: trans-affirming mental health and medical consultations, a name and gender marker change clinic, and community building with local individuals and organizations.

 

Q: DO YOU NEED LOCAL VOLUNTEERS?

A: Volunteers are the best and we could always use an extra helping hand – please email me (Vee Lamneck) if interested!

 

Q: IF AN ORGANIZATION WOULD LIKE TO DISPLAY INFORMATION (TABLE), WHO SHOULD THEY CONTACT?

A: Send me (Vee Lamneck) an email at vlamneck@equalityvirginia.org

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LGBT Life Center at Equality Virginia’s 15th Annual Commonwealth Dinner

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This past Saturday, April 14, LGBT Life Center staff members joined over 1,000 other community members, government figures, leaders and advocates at Equality Virginia’s 15th Annual Commonwealth Dinner in Richmond. The dinner is a yearly black-tie celebration of Virginia’s vibrant LGBT community, bringing folks together for an evening of speakers, silent auctions and honoring OUTstanding Virginians. Additionally, this is an evening that recognizes the supportive legislation of Virginian politicians and leaders and their impacts on the current and future of LGBT issues. We were delighted to have a table at the event, representing Hampton Roads, our organization and the incredible community we serve.

Governor of Virginia Ralph Northam (right)

Mara Keisling, Founder & Executive Director of the National Center for Transgender Advocacy (left)

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are extremely humbled and fortunate to have been a part of this event on its 15th year; a single evening that raised over $40,000 for continued LGBT progress and advocacy in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

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New Staff Intros: Jasmine Johnson

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As our agency has grown over the past months, so has our staff of wonderful, unique and hard-working individuals. We’re proud of our family and want to share some of their stories with you.

#LGBTLifeTeamWelcomes Jasmine Johnson! 

Job Title: Community Health Navigator

Past Experience: Jasmine joins us from the International Black Women’s Congress here in Norfolk, Virginia where she did Non-Medical case management for a period of 10 months.  Prior to working at IBWC, Jasmine just finished college at Tidewater Community college, where she received here Associate’s Degree of Applied Science.. Jasmine is currently a member of the Transgender Advisory Group (TAG).

I can help the public with:  I love my job because I am able to help people each and every day. I help the community by being someone to turn to when in need of mental health help, medical care, trans related issues and advice, and much more:

  • Housing
  • Food
  • Employment
  • Job Training
  • GED or Educational Services
  • Mental Health Services
  • General Support Services Health Insurance
  • HIV Testing
  • STD Testing
  • HIV Medication
  • PrEP and/or HIV Prevention Services
  • nPEP
  • Clean Needles
  • Addiction and/or Recovery Services
  • Domestic or Relationship Violence Services

What one thing about you do you want in your elegy?: I am a human being, thriving in a world that is constantly trying to push me aside..

What would you like to say about joining the LGBT Life Center Team?: It is such a joy to be able to come to work every day and do what you love while helping your community. I truly feel lucky to do the work I do here with so many people that are passionate about the cause.  

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New Staff Intros: Keri Tessaro

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As our agency has grown over the past months, so has our staff of wonderful, unique and hard-working individuals. We’re proud of our family and want to share some of their stories with you.

#LGBTLifeTeamWelcomes Keri Tessaro!

Job Title: Medical Care Coordinator (Medical Case Management)

Past Experience: I joined the LGBT Life Team after a short career break to spend time with my young children. Before joining the Life Team, I worked in behavioral health with both the City of Virginia Beach and City of Chesapeake, assisting individuals with intellectual disabilities with their immediate care needs. After graduation with my Bachelors in Social Work from Norfolk State University, I went to work for a non-profit in Norfolk that specialized in assisting individuals without health insurance at or below the 200% federal poverty guideline with accessing needed health care with specialty providers.

I can help the public with: I can assist the public, clients, and callers with information about our agency, programs we offer and give guidance to help get the person calling to the right department or resource depending on their individual needs.

What would you like to say about joining the Life Center Team?: While case management isn’t for the faint of heart, it’s exciting knowing you’re making a positive impact on people’s lives.

 

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New Staff Intros: Daryl Wiggins

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As our agency has grown over the past months, so has our staff of wonderful, unique and hard-working individuals. We’re proud of our family and want to share some of their stories with you.

#LGBTLifeTeamWelcomes Daryl Wiggins!

Nickname (if you have one) that you like to go by: Wiggy

Job Title: Intake Care Coordinator

Past Experience:  Daryl comes to us from 31 years of experience in the field of Mental Health. He worked for several private non-profit companies as well as city and state agencies. He is well known in that field as he was Chairman for 4 different organizations within the state of Virginia, and his specialty and area of expertise was teaching educators and parents in the field of Autism. Before he came to LGBT Life Center, he was the Director for the city of Virginia Beach’s Adult Day Program, then tried a 3 year stint with New York Life, selling life insurance.

I can help the public with: Assisting with referrals to many state/city agencies if there is a need in regards to many intellectual and developmental disabilities – i.e. down’s syndrome, autism spectrum disorder – or if they need services such as housing, case management or financial assistance (in the Mental Health, Intellectual Disability arena). I know a LOT of people in high places when it comes to providing services to the developmentally disabled population.

What one thing about you do you want in your elegy?: If you were his friend, he was loyal to you to the end. He will go above and beyond for a true friend.

What would you like to say about joining the Life Center team?: It is such a joy to be able to come to work every day and do what I love while helping my community. And I want to share my story with others to show them that there is so much to life beyond living with HIV.

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Exploring the Diversity of LGBTQ Families

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Love Defines A Family

Every day, members of the LGBTQ community challenge traditional definitions of what it means to be a family. With recent strides in marriage equality, the definition of ‘family’ continues to evolve, weaving new, diverse threads into our nation’s social fabric. Coastal Virginia is home to many LGBTQ families and for the second year, LGBT Life Center produced a photo essay to demonstrate wide diversity and ‘normality’ found in our community. While each family featured is unique and make integral contributions to the quality of life in Hampton Roads, the universal truth found in each family is the love they share for one another – proof that love defines a family. We hope you enjoy these photographs and celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ community. ——

This album is dedicated to the love shared by each family featured in this book and among LGBTQ families throughout Coastal Virginia.

Special thanks to:
Heather Hughes Photography
Virginia Department of Health
ODU Office of Intercultural Affairs

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New Staff Intros: Lorraine Reichert

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As our agency has grown over the past months, so has our staff of wonderful, unique and hard-working individuals. We’re proud of our family and want to share some of their stories with you.

#LGBTLifeTeam Welcomes Lorraine Reichert!

Job Title: Senior Community Health Navigator

Nickname: Raine

Past experience: After being medically retired from the Navy, I found myself drawn to the public health arena.  I provided community health education for more than 13 years through Western Tidewater Community Services Board to people in a wide variety of locations including substance use programs, jails/prisons, probation and parole, social services, and the CSBs psychosocial rehab program.

I can help the public with: I thrive on researching health information and I tend to be very generous with sharing what I found, particularly if I believe it will help our community.

What one thing about you do you want in your elegy?: She never gave up, even when things were tough.

What would you like to say about joining the LGBT Life Center team?: It is an honor to work with people that are passionate about caring for our clients, our community, and that are dedicated to providing the best service they can.

New Staff Intros: Zain Welsh

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As our agency has grown over the past months, so has our staff of wonderful, unique and hard-working individuals. We’re proud of our family and want to share some of their stories with you.

#LGBTLifeTeamWelcomes Zain Welsh!

Job Title: Benefits Coordinator

Past Experience: My own personal life was in itself a struggle, just like many others in our community–so at a young age I dropped out and got my GED. I immediately began working full time at age 16. I have obtained two college degrees: one in Homeland Security, acquired in 2005 (the year I would have graduated High school) and the other as a Dog Trainer, acquired in 2012. My work has always been in customer service. I have immaculate people skills as I am empathetic, kind-hearted, and just like everyone else. I was previously a Doctor’s Assistant to a gastroenterologist and had been with the company for 3 years. I enjoyed helping people in a medical setting as well as on a day-to-day basis so it brought me to the Center.

I can help the public with: I’m your go-to person for benefits (again!) I also can help answer any questions about LGBT Life Center events, programs, support groups, and all of our services for the LGBTQ and HIV communities.

What one thing about you do you want in your elegy?: When you believe in yourself, everything is achievable!!

What would you like to say about joining the LGBT Life Center Team?: It’s been a true pleasure joining the Center and a team that has openly welcomed me to the family! As a Center and team we all offer very different skills to advance the vision and build up our community around us through LGBTQ awareness, visibility, and support

What’s Zain up to?: As a benefits coordinator, Zain has been working tirelessly on ACA enrollment. So far, he has helped enroll dozens of clients into the ACA. With just 15 days left (Dec. 15) in the enrollment period (3 weeks M-F, and some Saturdays!), Zain will be busy with referrals and further enrollment in an effort to service the members of our community in need.