Out & About: November is a time of thanks

We are thankful for marriage equality, but we know it is just a step toward equality. Our transgender brothers and sisters (especially those of color) know this, as well. The average life span of a trans person of color is 35 years old. We remember trans people who have passed on Nov. 20.

I am so thankful and pleased with the progress Pride has made through the years. Although I will continue to support Pride as a sponsor and volunteer, I am stepping down as Pride’s president to lead an effort to create an LGBTQ cultural community center for Central Massachusetts. As I reflect on my time at Pride, sometimes it is nice to hear what others have to say.

Our mayor had this to say about Pride and my participation in Worcester civic life:

“I am sorry to hear that John Trobaugh, who has been on the board of Worcester Pride for the past five years and their president for the past three years, is stepping down. John has been an instrumental partner and advocate to the mayor’s office as I sought to make it a priority of my administration that we make the city of Worcester a welcoming place to all individuals and families.

“Under John’s leadership with Worcester Pride, they have flourished and maintained a presence in the community throughout the year. Whether it is hosting events, social programs, celebrations in City Hall and the community, advocating for change or promoting Worcester and Worcester Pride throughout New England, John has led the charge every step of the way.

“One of the most important accomplishments has been working with John and Worcester Pride on the Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index Report. For the first time ever, and with John’s leadership and guidance, the city of Worcester was able to receive a perfect score. This would not have happened without John’s advocacy and commitment to lead the way on many of the changes.

“I look forward to continuing to work with John in his new capacity, leading an effort to establish an LGBTQ cultural community center, and I look forward to the continued great relationship with Worcester Pride and their new president.”

These are very kind words indeed. One of the things I am most proud of is making sure Worcester Pride is inclusive of families, as well as the diverse communities of color. I was so proud to have Black Lives Matter (especially trans people of color) march with the Asylum Project and Family Health Link, as well as parents and religious faiths of all kinds representing the broad tapestry that is Worcester. Thank you to all that made the 40^th year of Worcester Pride the best year so far.

Upcoming Events:

Transgender Day Of Remembrance: Join Worcester Pride and the entire community at 4 p.m. Nov. 20 at Worcester City Hall (check worcesterpride.org for details) as we remember those who have passed because of intolerance and hate.

Airspray, Worcester’s Queer Dance Party: Nov. 20 is the next Airspray and the Queer Dance Night at Electric Haze, 26 Milbury St., Worcester.

LGBT Networking: The Gay Professionals Group currently meets at Bocado on the second Wednesday of each month from 6-8 p.m.

LGBT Youth: Every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. is SWAGLY at AIDS Project Worcester, 85 Green St., Worcester, for ages 12-22. Every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. is a meeting of Safe Homes, for ages 14-23, at The Bridge, 4 Mann St., Worcester.

by John Trobaugh

John Trobaugh is a diversity project specialist in the Diversity and Inclusion Office of UMass Medical School. For more information, visit worcesterpride.org.