Join Stonewall’s new chapter

We were disheartened to hear about the turmoil taking place at Chico’s Stonewall Alliance Center over the summer. The organization has long been a go-to resource around these parts for LGBTQ members and allies.

Based on what we’ve learned, the nonprofit’s executive director, Thomas Kelem, was unceremoniously cut loose by its board of directors. That’s despite the fact that he was planning to retire from his post in the fall. While we don’t know all of the details, it came as a shock to the folks he’d worked closely with for many years, first as a board member and then in the leadership role. The lack of communication that followed that decision only made matters worse.

Indeed, people were blindsided. As relayed during a contentious meeting with the board of directors, Stonewall stakeholders felt betrayed, shut out, unsafe even (see Ashiah Scharaga’s report on page 8). Understandably, they’d lost confidence in the board and were concerned about the future of the organization.

The good news: Their voices were heard. What followed was nearly a mass exodus of board members. In that vacuum, several longtime members of the Stonewall community have stepped up to help move the nonprofit forward. However, there are still many vacancies on that panel. One of the next steps: filling the executive director post.

This is a critical time for members of the gender and sexual minority community and the organizations that serve them. According to statistics released this week by the California Department of Justice, hate crimes jumped 17 percent between 2016 and 2017. That includes a nearly 19 percent surge in cases based on an individual’s sexual orientation—real or perceived.

Stonewall has done much over the decades to unite and assist the local LGBTQ community. Its array of services include low- and no-cost counseling, support groups, social gatherings and other vital efforts. Clearly, that important work must continue. We’re looking forward to this new chapter, and we hope the greater community recognizes the role the center plays in making the North State a more inclusive and safe place to live and work.

What can you do to help? Get involved. Consider applying for a board of directors position. Stonewall is also heavily reliant on volunteers—opportunities abound, from technical help to physical labor for events. Speaking of which, Stonewall’s annual Chico Pride celebration is taking place next month. All of the proceeds will help sustain the organization’s ongoing programs. Join in the festivities, show your support and help buoy its crucial work.