Pride Resources at The Arc of Monroe
At The Arc of Monroe, we work hard to support people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in all walks of life, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+. One of the local resources in Monroe County that people find meaningful support through is Roc PrideAbility.
PrideAbility is a movement that promotes ongoing education, understanding, and respect through a network of connections and advocacy that provides support and friendship for citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities who identify as LGBTQIA+. It started in 2013 in Long Island and Buffalo and grew to become a statewide network of five groups, Roc PrideAbility started in 2018.
The group meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 5:45-6:45 p.m. on Zoom. They also meet for informal meetings at LGBTQ+ friendly places in the community. The peer support that people offer each other through discussions, questions, and conversations is the most valuable part from a leader’s perspective. From the participant’s perspectives, they’ve shared that it gives them a space to be “free” and talk about their sexuality or gender with others who they know will accept them.
Upcoming Events
Check back later for upcoming meetings and events!
2022 Rochester Pride Parade
Contact Us!
Brian Potvin
Coordinator of Person-Centered Approaches
(585) 643-0097
bpotvin@arcmonroe.org
LGBTQ+ and I/DD STATISTICS AND FACTS IN THE US
Source: LGBTmap.com
Research shows that LGBT people are more likely than the general population to have a disability and face systemic challenges finding employment, community, and more. Even 29 years after the passage of the ADA, more work is needed to ensure that people with disabilities, including LGBT people with disabilities, have full and equal access in American society.
LGBT People in the US with a Disability3-5 Million
Gay Men Reported Having a Disability26%
Lesbian Women Reported Having a Disability36%
8.8%LGBT People with Disabilities Unemployed
LGBT People without Disabilities Unemployed5.4%
Transgender Adults Reported Having a Disability2 in 5
Supporting Safe Spaces Trainings
Supporting Safe Spaces is geared towards Direct Support Professionals, managers, family members, and others who are supporting people in the LGBTQ+ community with IDD. The goal of the program is to provide the necessary information, training tips and resources to support your organization. This program also offers continuous support in how to have these conversations at your organization, and how to create effective support groups that can meet the unique needs of this population. A Train-the-Trainer program is also available with a goal to provide the necessary information, training tips, resources, and support to hold your own Supporting Safe Spaces workshops at your organization.