How to Connect With the Gay and Lesbian Community in Dallas

Sometimes, size does matter. In the city whose slogan is “Live Large. Think Big,” it’s no surprise that a tremendous amount of support is available for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender residents.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Get centered. Dallas has one of the five largest gay and lesbian centers in the United States. With a staff of 44 and a volunteer force of 1,100 the Resource Center of Dallas’ offerings range from Gay Bingo to HIV/AIDS and STD education.
2. Involve yourself in politics. “All politics is local” says the Dallas Gay and Lesbian Alliance, whose goal is to promote equality. Have fun while you better your community as you get to know like-minded people in this organization.
3. Belly up to the bar. Dallas has some two dozen gay and lesbian bars—including The Brick, Hideaway and Zippers—offering everything from drinks to drag.
4. Show your Pride, twice! Be part of the Dallas Pride Parade in mid-September followed by Dallas Black Gay Pride at the end of the month.
5. Find your club. In Dallas, you’ll find a diverse array of GLBT interest clubs including F-Stop photography, Grupo Social Latino and the Late Bloomers for lesbians who come out later in life.
6. Know that you are in good company, if you are the spouse of a gay or lesbian person who is coming out. Two groups—You Are Not Alone and Over the Rainbow help spouses come to terms with their mate’s sexual orientation.

Tips & Warnings

• Don’t stay alone in the “Lone Star State”: get involved with others in the GLBT community.
• Join a group even if its core goal doesn’t interest you. You’ll meet people and possibly find a new passion as well.