Summary
This 1973 issue of Pittsburgh Gay News (PGN) covers a range of topics relevant to the local LGBTQ+ community, including:
- Pittsburgh Human Sexuality Conference: A two-day event sponsored by Gay Students at Pitt (GSP) at the University of Pittsburgh discussed “Human-sexuality, Morality and Counseling.” It featured films like “Some Of Your Best Friends” and “The Invisible Minority,” and a lecture by Michael F. Valente on “Sex, Morality, and the Church.” Randal Forrester and James Huggins of Persad Center also presented on “Counseling Sexual Minorities.” The article highlights the prevalence of homoerotophobic attitudes among clergy and the need for a shift in opinion.
- Universal Church of Celebration (UCC): The gay church announced its permanent location at 616 E. North Avenue, North Side, and its holiday season plans, including a Snowflake Ball, tree decorating party, caroling tour, and a midnight candlelight Christmas Eve service. They also announced a New Year’s Day church dedication service and a Winter Carnival on January 4, 1974, which will include a “slave auction” with no sexual connotation.
- Gay Liberation in Pittsburgh: An article by Jim Austin details the history of gay liberation efforts in Pittsburgh, including the “Morals Squad Scandal” of the late 1940s and early 1950s, the formation of Mattachine of Pittsburgh, and the emergence of other organizations like Homophiles Organized for Proper Equality (HOPE).
- Persad Center, Inc.: The article highlights Persad’s first year of operation as a community-funded mental health center for sexual minorities, detailing its services and urgent financial crisis. It also notes Persad’s victory in getting “Mental Health Svc.-Sexual Minorities” listed in the Yellow Pages.
- Gay Alternatives Pittsburgh (GAP): This organization, formed in March 1972, provides social alternatives, hosts a regular coffeehouse, and has been involved in political action, such as advocating for an openly gay teacher. GAP also sponsored a successful Supper/Cabaret event that raised $250 for Persad Center.
- Other Organizations and Events:
- Cybele Women’s Center: A feminist center for Pittsburgh women that started in summer 1973, offering classes and planning a “Feminist Thanksgiving” coffeehouse.
- Gay Nurses Alliance (GNA): This group “came out” at the Pennsylvania Nurses Association convention, aiming to end discrimination against gay peers and patients.
- Gay College Students: GSP at the University of Pittsburgh received official recognition and funding, while Gay Independent Students at Tech (GIST) at CMU disbanded. Homophiles of Indiana University of Pennsylvania (HIUP) also formed.
- Lesbian/Feminists of Pittsburgh (L/FP): Formed to provide a separate voice for gay women, though activity dwindled in mid-summer.
- Editorials and Features:
- An editorial by Fred Gormley, “‘Passing For Straight’,” discusses the importance of embracing one’s gay identity.
- An editorial by Jim Austin, “Houston Just Won’t ‘Go Away’,” addresses the mass murders in Houston and the need for the gay community to not be defined by the actions of a few individuals.
- Chuck Myers reviews Bette Midler’s concert in Pittsburgh.
- Brian Kochera provides a two-part guide on “How To Grow A Gay Garden In The City,” suggesting that plants take on the sexual identification of their caretakers.
- A letter from an anonymous “Slightly Older Gay” reflects on aging, loneliness, and the positive changes in the gay community.
- Advertisements and Community Information: The issue includes advertisements for local gay-friendly businesses and services, such as David’s Lounge in Steubenville, Ohio, Madeline’s Gateway Hideaway Bar, Noah’s Waterbeds, and The House of Tilden. It also features a “Gay Calendar” of events and information on how to subscribe to Pittsburgh Gay News.