The LGBT community in Charlotte is growing and thriving. Organizations and people throughout Charlotte are welcoming its LGBT citizens. There are numerous resources available for the LGBT community from support groups to sports groups. Check out the best of the best in the Queen city.
(photo credit: gaycharlotte.com)
The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte
820 Hamilton St, Suite B11
Charlotte, NC 28206
(704) 333-0144
gaycharlotte.com
The LGBT Community Center of Charlotte was founded in 2001 and moved to its current location in 2008. The Center is at the heart of the LGBT community, providing programming and events from knitting nights to yoga. There is a real sense of community and hominess at The Center, and it’s a great resource for newcomers. For the past four years, The Center has sponsored a LGBT Film Festival in the spring. Check out its list of resources on the website.
(photo credit: meckpac.org)
Mecklenburg Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Political Action Committee (MeckPAC)
meckpac.org
For the political members of the community, MeckPAC provides a non-partisan, non-profit organization designed to address LGBT issues with those seeking office and those holding office. It supports local, state and federal LGBT political advocacy on the issues important to the LGBT community. MeckPAC seeks to educate those seeking office, holding them accountable for their votes on issues pertaining to the LGBT population. MeckPAC does not hold regular meetings but can be reached through its website.
(photo credit: gmccharlotte.org)
The Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte
St. Martin’s Episcopal Church Sanctuary
1510 E 7th St
Charlotte, NC 28204
(704) 549-9202
gmccharlotte.org
For people who love to sing, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte provides an opportunity to meet new people and create beautiful music together. The Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte is open to men, women and transgender folks who will wear a tuxedo on stage and sing in the range of tenor, baritone or bass. Membership does involve an audition process, so check the webpage for details. If you are not a singer, there are opportunities for you to get involved as well.
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(photo credit: gmccharlotte.org)
PFLAG Charlotte
Christ Episcopal Church
1412 Providence Road
Charlotte, NC 28207
pflagcharlotte.org
PFLAG welcomes parents, family and friends of lesbians and gays to support each other and their loved ones. It is a place for open dialogue about sexual and gender identity and works to end discrimination and secure equal civil rights for the community. PFLAG meets on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.
(photo credit: charlotteroyals.org)
The Charlotte Royals
Multiple Locations
charlotteroyals.org
In 2004, a group of Charlotte men created a gay rugby team, The Charlotte Royals. As its webpage states, “Big and beefy, small and agile, we have a position for you!” The Charlotte Royals “foster a supportive environment where gay and bisexual men and their straight allies can learn and play the sport of rugby.” All men are welcome, regardless of their sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, age, size or athleticism. The group encourages teamwork and sportsmanship and also donates time to local charities and organizations. The Charlotte Royals practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Check out the website to get involved.
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Lauren J. Walter is a freelance writer covering all things Charlotte. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
