Remembering Cei Bell
William Way LGBT Community Center will be holding a celebration of life to honor Cei Bell on May 19 from 3-5 p.m. No RSVP is needed and attendees can also attend via Zoom at bit.ly/44Mwvrj.
Bell, who was an activist in Philadelphia during the earliest days of the national movement for LGBTQ+ rights, co-founded Radicalqueens — Philadelphia’s first organized group that centered on gender identity — in 1973. Cei, a prolific and award-winning writer and artist, often wrote about LGBTQ+ issues but also about the changing culture and landscape of Philadelphia in recent years. She passed away in February.
Finding style support
PFLAG Philadelphia is partnering with galaei to provide hair styling and hair care support, makeup and skin care tutorials, as well as facial hair care tips by professional makeup artists and hair stylists from the TV and film industry. The event will take place on May 18 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Appointments are required.
A change in address
Bebashi announced that the organization’s headquarters will move to the University City District in fall 2024. The organization, which offers healthcare screenings, HIV-related support groups, disease prevention education, and a food pantry, offers culturally sensitive services to Black and Brown people. Following the move, some services will continue to be available at the Spring Garden location.
“The expansion allows us to broaden our range of services but also signifies our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the community,” said Sebrina Tate, the organization’s president and CEO.
LGBTQ+ certification for New Jersey businesses
LGBTQ+ business certification, a program that was previously launched after Gov. Phil Murphy signed an executive order in 2022, has been preserved through state law.
This certification, which lasts for five years before renewal is needed, allows LGBTQ+ business owners to access government funding, resources and programs that are designated for minority-owned businesses. It will also ensure LGBTQ+ businesses can access contracts with the state and governmental agencies. To be eligible, businesses must be at least 51% LGBTQ+ owned. Recent legislation will safeguard the program even after Murphy leaves office.
Last chance opportunities for small business owners
There’s still time to submit proposals for a variety of grants and funding opportunities.
Queer-owned and allied businesses are eligible to receive support from the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the GrubHub Community Fund, which offers grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to LGBTQ+-owned and allied eateries. Applications are open through May 21.
Additionally, members of the Independence Business Alliance can apply for a $5,000 award by submitting a plan that demonstrates innovative and sustainable strategies and an ongoing contribution to the community. Funding is sponsored by PNC Bank, and applications are open until May 24.
Founders First, a community-development organization that supports business leaders with diverse experiences, is offering $25,000 to 25 LGBTQ+ led businesses across the United States. Applications are open through May 28 and require a short video pitch.