A new Lawrence community center for young people who identify as queer and trans — particularly youth of color — will hold its grand opening Wednesday afternoon.

The event is set for 2-6 p.m. Wednesday at Haus of McCoy, 1046 New Hampshire St. Masks are required and will be available for those who need one.

“The Haus of McCoy will be geared towards Lawrence youth, including high school and middle school students,” according to the Facebook event page. “If a middle school youth is interested, we ask that they attend with a parent or guardian for the opening.”

The Haus’ website elaborates on its mission: “The Haus of McCoy seeks to provide a safer space for queer and trans youth to be in community and learn with one another and supportive adults. Safety is one of our top priorities. While all queer and trans folks are welcome, our organization holds Black trans poor disabled women at the center.”

Haus of McCoy is led by Founder and Executive Director Cody Charles (all pronouns). The organization recently received tax-exempt status as a nonprofit. Donations are tax-deductible.

The center launched near the end of June, celebrating with a Coming Out Party, and recently held an Open Haus to distribute copies of “The Belly of the Beast” by Da’Shaun Harrison.

The Haus of McCoy board of directors includes Bulaong Ramiz, Darren Canady and Dr. Aramis Watson, and founding friends include Hannah Bolton, Emily Gullickson and Tamiah Coffee.

Read more about Haus of McCoy at this link and in previous coverage from the Times below. Follow the Haus for updates on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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