About Us → News & Events Connecticut celebrates LGBTQ+ History Month

In celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month, the state of Connecticut recently hosted a roundtable discussion featuring prominent leaders and advocates within the LGBTQ+ community. Health Care Advocates International’s Youth & Family Director, Tony Ferraiolo, took part and offered his unique perspective on working with Connecticut’s LGBTQ+ youth. 

Governor Ned Lamont began the day by reaffirming Connecticut’s stance as a champion for inclusivity and equality for all. Longtime educator, Clare McCarthy, moderated the discussion, guiding panelists through key topics such as legislative progress, healthcare for the LGBTQ+ community, and the intersectionality of race, gender, and identity.  

The panel was composed of State Treasurer Erick Russell, CEO & Founder of Sky Casper Entertainment Sky Casper, Marriage Equality and LGBTQ+ Rights Advocate Anne Stanback, Dr. Katy Tierney, Reverend Darrell Goodwin, Miss Connecticut USA Shavana Clarke, Founder and Owner of Small State Provisions Kevin Masse and Chief Marketing Officer at the State of Connecticut, Anthony Anthony.  

The event served as a platform to discuss key milestones in LGBTQ+ rights, the progress made in Connecticut and the critical work that still lies ahead. Panelists inspired dialogue, fostered understanding, and highlighted the State’s ongoing commitment to equality and inclusion for everyone. 

HCAI’s Tony Ferraiolo stressed the importance of visibility and support for Connecticut trans and non-binary children. He said, “When we give kids what they need, we save them. We keep them alive; we give them hope for a better life.” He added, “But we need to do better, even here in Connecticut.” The panel went on to discuss today’s reality and the staggering statistics for states not as progressive as those in the Northeast.  

The Trevor Project survey recently polled 35K+ LGBTQ youth about the effects of recent legislation, banning gender affirming healthcare. The results were appalling. States that have enacted anti-transgender laws, saw suicide attempts among trans and non-binary people in some states increase by 72%.  

But it’s not all negative. Connecticut has been and continues to be one of the country’s leaders when it comes to LGBTQ rights. The state has banned conversion therapy, enacted marriage equality laws, adoption rights and gender affirming medical care. The culture has shifted, and the state is becoming more and more a place to welcome all paths of life. 

Health Care Advocates International and the many LGBTQ organizations throughout the state, strive to build community spaces for everyone to feel safe, open and affirmed. Connecticut has made great progress but also has so far to go. Health Care Advocates International remains dedicated to promoting a world with civil discourse and challenge each of you to educate yourself and learn something new as we celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month. The LGBTQ+ History Month Roundtable can be viewed in full on the Connecticut Network webpage and a full list of HCAI’s programs and initiatives can be found on the Youth & Family webpage.