Pennsylvania Commission on LGBTQ Affairs

11/20/2024

On Trans Day of Remembrance, we join the entire Shapiro Administration in unequivocally condeming violence against trans people and every Pennsylvanian. We're holding in our hearts the families who had loved ones taken from them too soon — families like Pauly Likens' in Mercer County, whose daughter was murdered in June, and Ashton Clatterbuck's, who was lost to su***de in Lancaster.

No matter what you look like, who you love, or who you pray to — you belong in Pennsylvania.

11/20/2024

11/08/2024

Office of the Governor of Pennsylvania says:
“Let me also make clear: I will never back down from standing up for the freedoms I was elected to protect. I will continue to defend our democracy, defend our fundamental rights, and ensure we continue the legacy of William Penn by building a Commonwealth that is warm and welcoming for all – and where all Pennsylvanians have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed.”

10/27/2024

LGBTQ Commissioner Highlight!

Daniel Orsino (he/him) is a Behavioral Health Community Liaison here in PA and lends his talents to the Commission on the Communications and Health subcommittees.

"For me, being a Commissioner is about empowering other q***r Pennsylvanians. It's about recognizing the systems of oppression that exist all around us and doing everything possible to dismantle them. It's about advocating for the things our community needs. As a Commission, we work with the Governor to create policies that tangibly help improve the lives of everyday Pennsylvanians"

10/26/2024

LGBTQ Commissioner Highlight!

Richard "Ricky" Buttacavoli (he/they) is the founder of both Ricky's Pride and the Montgomery County LGBTQ Business Council. His work spans the Commonwealth and we're happy he continues his advocacy as a member of the Aging and Communications subcommittees on the Commission.

"I’ve been dedicated to advancing LGBTQ+ rights for decades. My advocacy began in the '90s when I managed the West Side Club, a gay nightclub that became a vital safe space for our community. Since then, I’ve influenced the passage of non-discrimination ordinances and was instrumental in convincing the Montgomery County Commissioners to create the Commission of LGBT Affairs. From raising the Pride flag at the Montgomery County Courthouse to advocating for comprehensive health services, my work is vast—this is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s so much more I’ve been involved with, all focused on breaking down barriers and ensuring that every LGBTQ+ person can thrive with dignity and equality. Together, we’re not just making history—we’re shaping a future where equality is the norm.”

10/22/2024

Office of the Governor of Pennsylvania Governor Shapiro is committed to uplift the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and proud to celebrate with us at the forefront of recognition and acceptance.
He proudly recognizes Asexual Awareness Week in Pennsylvania.
Happy Ace Week, PA!

10/18/2024

Less than one month until the Nov. 5 general election. Are you ?
Register and make a plan to vote at vote.pa.gov.

10/11/2024

LGBTQ+ history month commissioner highlight!

Michele Kessler (she/her) has long been an advocate for workers and the LGBTQ community. She represents 35,000 workers at UFCW Local 1776 Keystone State as the secretary treasurer. As a co-chair of the policy subcommittee of the commission she advocates to make PA more inclusive for LGBTQ workers.

Michele says, "It's empowering to be able to work with a Governor like Josh Shapiro to create a more LGBTQ+ inclusive state, where we can feel safe to work, have families, worship and enjoy our lives. After spending many years in the closet myself, I want to advocate so others can live their authentic lives freely."

Thanks Michele! And happy !

10/09/2024

"Protecting LGBTQ+ Pennsylvanians from hatred in housing, schooling, and community spaces is the bare minimum of what we owe them." - Senator Jay Costa

Let's pass the Fairness Act Now!

HARRISBURG, PA − October 8, 2024 − Today, Democratic Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) filed discharge petitions on three critical bills that have been stuck in committee due to inaction from Senate Republicans, who have refused to bring these bills and hundreds of others up for a vote. All three b...

10/09/2024

LGBTQ+ history month commissioner highlight!

Our commissioner Sean Meloy hails from Alleghany County and is the VP of Political Programs at the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund. As a co-chair of the commission's policy subcommittee, he advocates to ensure our community isn't overlooked.

Sean says, "It is essential LGBTQ+ people are represented in every aspect of our government - especially in data collection; if something isn't counted, it isn't valued."

Thanks, Sean!

09/17/2024

Send a message to learn more

09/16/2024

If you or someone you know has thoughts of su***de, immediate help is available. Call, text, or chat 988 to speak to a trained crisis counselor offering support 24/7/365.

***dePreventionMonth

09/10/2024

Su***de can affect every one of us. By raising awareness, reducing the stigma & encouraging action we can help to reduce the instances of su***de around the world.

***dePreventionDay

09/04/2024

MCCLV is grateful to God and God's people for 40 years of spiritual adventures. Join in celebrating God's grace and goodness at a 40th Anniversary Worship Service on Sunday, October 6 at 10:30am. The worship service features the children & youth of the church as well as the annual Blessing of Transgender Journeys. Enjoy hearing from six leaders on the church's impact in the community:
- Liz Bradbury, CEO/Board Chair, Keystone Equality
- Ashley L. Coleman, Executive Director, Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center
- Amanda Hecker, Diversity Training Educator & Consultant and Member, Lehigh Valley Transgender Renaissance
- Brian Jones, Minister for Music & Worship, Metropolitan Community Church of the Lehigh Valley
- Steven Nazario, Recovery Leader and Stylist, A List Salon Spa
- Ashleigh Strange, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Commission on LGBTQ Affairs

Join in the sanctuary at 2354 Grove Road, Allentown, PA 18109 as well as online via the church's page (Metropolitan Community Church of the Lehigh Valley).

The heavens are telling the glory of God! (Psalm 19:1)

08/27/2024

08/26/2024