The Lancaster County Democratic Committee is committed to supporting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. No one should be discriminated against because of whom they love or how they identify.
Historically, members of the LGBTQ community in Lancaster County have had to look far outside the county to find support services. Fortunately, that is changing as the local LGBTQ community has become more visible. LCDC is in the process of forming a new LGBTQ+ Caucus—contact us if you are interested in getting involved!
The following list of resources can help teens, adults, and seniors, whether new to the area or new to the LGBTQ community, to find the support services they need and to make new connections.
Teens:
Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition offers a youth group for teens and young adults, ages 13-20, that meets at the Coalition’s office Saturdays, 6 – 8 p.m. *Due to COVID-19, meetings are now virtual at:https://facebook.com/events/s/youth-group/173043877381497/?ti=icl
The LGBT Community Center Coalition of Central PA’s Common Roads runs a youth group for teens, ages 14 – 17, that meets at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Lancaster, Fridays 6 – 8 p.m. *Due to COVID-19, meetings are now virtual at:meet.google.com/xoe-smxu-ida +1 267-485-1963 PIN: 276 072 626#
The TREVOR Project is a national, 24/7 hotline for teens seeking support. The TREVOR Project’s trained counselors help teens in crisis or who just need someone to listen. Call 1-866 -488-7386 or text START to 678-678.
Harvard Law School has published the Trans Youth Handbook, a comprehensive guide to the legal rights of trans youth.
Adults:
Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition offers a range of programs, including yoga, a running group, a crafting group, and game nights as well as support groups for seniors, people with chronic conditions, and those seeking friendship. Meetings take place at their office. For times, visit their website. The Coalition also offers training classes for organizations about LGBTQ+ issues in general and transgender issues specifically. They also offer open, honest sex education classes.
Other Resources:
Lancaster Pride is an organization that hosts events to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and advance acceptance within the entire county. Their annual Lancaster Pride Festival will be Saturday, October 24, 12-8 p.m. in Clipper Magazine Stadium.
Lancaster Public Library has an impressive selection of LGBTQ+ fiction and nonfiction books for adults, teens, and children.
PFLAG is a national organization that provides support for families and friends of the LGBTQ+ community. The nearest office is in York, PA.
The Movement Advancement Project has great information about the laws and protections afforded to the LGBTQ+ community across the country with detailed breakdowns for each state.
LCDC has always been inclusive and supportive of LGBTQ rights. Those interested in helping LCDC to continue fighting for LGBTQ rights are welcome to contact our office at 717-299-5701 or and learn how to get involved.
Article by Jen Ericson
