As our Museum community adjusts and grounds itself to this new reality of physical distancing we are rethinking the way we share resources, art, and information. We know that community and communication are essential to our work, and we want to make sure that we are not overwhelming you with content. So from now until our Museum's doors reopen, we will slow down the sharing of emails and focus on tailoring our communications to the needs that arise.

Information included in this email is divided into two sections: Dispatches from the Museum where we will share what our teams are working on - online programs, exhibitions, learning opportunities, recommended readings, social media highlights, and more; and Community Care , where we will include LGBTQ+ community resources and artist opportunities

We hope these actions offer you inspiration and help you stay connected with the work of the Museum, and one another.
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DISPATCHES FROM THE MUSEUM
Our Board Co-President Dr. Dan Berger, who is a leading HIV specialist and a Clinical Associate Professor at the Chicago campus of the University of Illinois College, has recorded this informational video about COVID-19 and it’s impact on our queer and HIV-positive communities. You can watch the video though our Vimeo link HERE .

Did you know that the Museum has a library with over 3000 titles? Today we wanted to share "AIDS: Cultural Analysis, Cultural Activism". Edited by Douglas Crimp and published in 1988, this was the first book to explore the "meaning" of AIDS across scientific, political and sociocultural fields. During this difficult time the experiences learned from the AIDS epidemic feel particularly relevant. "AIDS: Cultural Analysis, Cultural Activism" is available online via Open Library HERE.
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COMMUNITY CARE
National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network (NQTTCN)
NQTTCN is a healing justice organization committed to transforming mental health and access for queer and trans people of color (QTPoC). Learn more at: https://www.nqttcn.com/

Ali Forney Center
An incredible resource for LGTBTQAI homeless youth, Ali Forney Center have chosen to stay open and to continue providing meals, housing, and counseling services amidst many other similar providers who have since shuttered. More information at: www.aliforneycenter.org

Riseout Action Team Virtual Gathering
The Center is hosting a Riseout Action Team Virtual Gathering Thursday, April 16 at 6pm. The gathering aims to support community conversations and foster social connections, especially in these difficult times of uncertainty and physical distancing. Join the conversation here: gaycenter.org/advocacy/action-team-monthly
 
THE OPPORTUNITY AGENDA: Creative Change Covid-19
In recognition of the hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, THE OPPORTUNITY AGENDA: Creative Change Covid-19 Emergency Assistance Stipends provides emergency assistance stipends for artists and cultural strategists. S tipends are $1,000 each and awarded on a rolling basis while fund last. To apply, visit: bit.ly/ccassistance  
 
Artist Relief
A coalition of national arts grantmakers have come together to create an emergency initiative to offer financial and informational resources to artists across the United States. The initiative includes immediate, unrestricted emergency funding of $5,000 for individual artists of all disciplines, and resources to help those in need due to the COVID-19 outbreak. For more information visit: artistrelief.org

Open Call
The Shed is launching their second Open Call to support NYC-based early-career artists and collectives as they make and present urgent new work. Applications are open through May 31. To apply visit: theshed.org/program/150-open-call-2021-applications
Image credits:

JEB (Joan E. Biren),  BEING SEEN MAKES A MOVEMENT POSSIBLE , QUEERPOWER facade Installation. Photo: (c) Kristine Eudey, 2019. Courtesy of the Leslie-Lohman Museum.

Charles Henri Ford,  untitled Poem Poster , 1964, Offset print (Printer: Vassily Papachrysanthou), 39.375 x 27.625 in. Image courtesy of Indra Tamang, Executor, Charles Henri Ford Artistic Estate.

Robert Giard, Five members of Other Countries, 1987. Silver gelatin print, 14 x 14 in. Courtesy of Stephen Bulger Gallery, Toronto. © the Estate of Robert Giard. 
The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art is closed temporarily to support New York City's effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. Please stay informed through our emails, website, and social media channels.