JCS is proud to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. As an organization that provides support services to individuals and families in Rhode Island, we are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for ALL members of our community. We strive to be a trusted resource and ally for the LGBTQ+ community year-round. The Counseling Center at JCS provides psychotherapy in an environment that is gender-affirming and supportive of sexual orientation.
Here at JCS, we operate on a core set of values that embody compassionate care, respect for others, and dedication to the community. The first core value is Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World), meaning to relieve human suffering and seek peace and mutual respect among people, strive for social justice through community action, and advocate on behalf of clients and the community. We strongly support the LGTBQ+ community, of all religions and backgrounds.
LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) Pride Month is celebrated annually in June. We recognize those who fought for equal justice, equal rights, and equal opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community. We honor the 1969 Stonewall Riots and fights for gay liberation. The first Pride March started one year after the Stonewall Riots on June 28th, 1970, in New York City. The 47th Annual Rhode Island PrideFest & Illuminated Night Parade will be held on Saturday, June 17th, 2023 at 11:00 am in Downtown Providence.
What does it mean to be an ally and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community? Here are some ways you can help:
- History- Familiarize yourself with LGBTQ+ history. Learn terminology and how to use it, ask questions, listen to stories and experiences.
- Education- Keep up to date about new legislation at the state and national levels. Learn about laws protecting the LGTBQ+ community, proposed bills that challenge access and equal rights, and how you can help. Don’t forget to vote!
- Community- Learn about your local organizations that help protect the community and offer resources and services.
- Support- Attend rallies, Pride parades, and volunteer for local organizations and events. Communicate and offer support to your friends and family members, whether they are part of the LGBTQ+ community or could benefit from educational resources.
LGBTQ+ Community Resources
- Youth Pride https://www.youthprideri.org/
- Youth Pride Inc. is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of youth and young adults impacted by sexual orientation and gender identity/expression while working to end the homophobic and transphobic environments in which they live, work, and play. YPI is a drop-in, affirming space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning young people to build community, develop connections, and be themselves. All Youth Pride Inc. programs are free of charge.
- The Trevor Project https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
- The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ+) young people under 25.
- Trevor Lifeline – The only national 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ+ young people under 25, available at 1-866-488-7386.
- PFLAG https://www.pflagprovidence.org/
- PFLAG provides support, education, and advocacy for parents, families, friends, and allies of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender people across Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. PFLAG offers a wonderful opportunity for families, friends, and LGBTQ+ people to learn and grow together.
- TGI Network https://www.tginetwork.org/
- TGI Network of RI works to serve the needs of the transgender, gender-variant, and intersex (TGI) communities in Rhode Island and surrounding areas through support, advocacy, and education.
- SAGE Rhode Island https://sage-ri.org/
- LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges as they age. SAGE (Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders) works to improve the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) older adults. SAGE/RI advocates for LGBTQ+ elders, and educates service providers and the community about LGBTQ+.
- Keshet https://www.keshetonline.org/
- Keshet works for the full equality of all LGBTQ+ Jews and our families in Jewish life.
- Eshel https://www.eshelonline.org/
- Eshel works with each individual, family, and community in creating a place for their LGBTQ+ members. Eshel envisions a world where Orthodox LGBTQ+ individuals can live out their lives in the Orthodox communities of their choice.
Help Lines (If you need immediate help, please dial 9-1-1)
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- PFLAG Greater Providence Help Line: (401) 307-1802
- The Trevor Lifeline: (866) 488-7386
- Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-TALK (8255)
- The GLBT National Help Center – Hotline: (888) 843-4564; Youth Talkline: (800) 246-7743
- The Samaritans of Rhode Island: (401) 272-4044 or (800) 365-4044