Julie Walker

While the nation’s administration gestures to eradicate the livelihood and existence of queer people, Worcester’s LGBTQIA+ community thrives with vivacity. In a demonstrative movement of willful non-compliance, Worcester was recently voted a sanctuary city for transgender and gender diverse people. Drag and queer youth events are popping up everywhere, planning Pride Worcester and Queer AF is underway, vigils, ceremonies, demonstrations, drop-ins, and workshops are bountiful, and we’re just getting started! This month we find two annual events that recognize and celebrate numerous local queer folks and organizations relocating to larger venues than previous years due to record-breaking attendance and participation. If anything, what we’re seeing is an indication that Worcester’s queer scene is the furthest thing from being erased.

Safe Homes Gala & People of Courage Awards

Taking place Friday, April 4, the Safe Homes Gala and People of Courage Awards supports Safe Homes, a program that has provided LGBTQIA+ youth (ages 14–23) with essential resources and a sense of belonging since 1995. Safe Homes, part of Open Sky Community Services, offers free gender-affirming clothing, chest binders, hygiene supplies, and a food pantry to queer youth in need. They also provide free one-on-one counseling, weekly drop-in sessions, and support networks to help queer youth live authentically.

Most of Safe Homes’ funding comes from individual donors, sponsors, and private foundations, making the Gala an essential fundraiser to keep these programs running. In addition to raising money, the event honors local changemakers. These individuals, businesses, and organizations have demonstrated passion and dedication through efforts and contributions that uplift LGBTQIA+ people. This year’s honorees include:

? People’s Choice Award – Mass Youth Soccer
? Small Business Award – The Woo Bar and Grill
? Social Justice Advocacy & Action Award – New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill

The evening includes a VIP reception, silent auction, dinner, speaker, and awards ceremony, and concludes with a social hour and dance party with DJ Joslyn Fox. It also represents even more. The Gala is a joyous, affirming, swanky evening where Worcester’s queer community comes together in strength, solidarity, celebration, and joy, with a bit of glitz and glam.

Worcester LGBTQ+ Icebreaker: A Warm Welcome for Newcomers

The second annual Worcester LGBTQ+ Icebreaker will be held Wednesday, April 16 at the Cocktail Garden and Kitchen. Presented by lgbtWOO, this free, 18+ event is designed specifically for those who are new to the local queer scene. While anyone who identifies as LGBTQIA+ is welcome, the event is tailored for those who are new to the city, newly out, or still exploring their identity. The concept for the Icebreaker was created by Worcester resident Alice Romeo. Alice’s inspiration comes from personal experience—she remembers how overwhelming it was to come out without knowing anyone in the community. The Icebreaker aims to eliminate that feeling of isolation by providing a space where attendees can meet queer business owners, resource providers, and other LGBTQIA+ folks in an environment designed for comfort and connection.

To ensure privacy, the event enforces a strict no-photo policy and offers a personalized name tag system. Attendees can enjoy complimentary snacks, a cash bar, and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships in a safe, low-pressure setting.

Worcester’s Queer Community is Here to Stay

These two events are representative of what Worcester’s LGBTQIA+ community is creating—a network of support, joy, and visibility that refuses to be erased. No matter the political climate, one thing is certain: Worcester’s queer community is growing, thriving, and here to stay.

Pictured: Jon Pittsley, Julie Walker and Eddie Rocco

Woo Bar and Grill owners Jon and Eddie receive the Safe Homes People of Courage Small Business Award, 2025

Julie Walker (she/her), M.Ed., is a parent, school counselor, GSA Advisor, board member of Love Your Labels, and the creator and manager of @queerworcester (IG).