So Lyon-Martin Women's Health Services has dropped the word "women'" from its name. We were surprised, quite frankly. We had interviewed Dr. Dawn Harbatkin on at least two occasions between April 12 and this week, and the name change never came up. The board voted on the matter April 25, meaning that it's most likely Harbatkin knew of the plan when she first met with us. While the change isn't official until next month, the organization is already using its new name – Lyon-Martin Health Services – in promotional materials that have been distributed. We believe the agency had an obligation to take the initiative and inform the public of this substantial change, which it did not do, as far as we know. Rather, Harbatkin responded to our questions after we found out through other sources.
It's instructive that Harbatkin told us the decision came about because of the changing face of the center's patients, including more female to male transgenders, and she and board President Laura Kogan told us this week that the center will of course continue to serve women, including lesbians, straights, bisexuals, and transgenders. But what is disappointing is that the center didn't first take this proposal to the community. After all, we have chronicled Lyon-Martin's unsteady recent past the last few years, including a revolving door of directors and staff as well as financial problems. Under Harbatkin's leadership, things seem to have stabilized, and that's a good thing. Lyon-Martin provides a valuable service to low-income patients, and is sorely needed.
But as a nonprofit that seeks donations from the general public, and particularly the LGBT community, center staff and board members should have received input from the community. While the center surveyed its patients on the proposal, it also had an obligation to receive input from its supporters, who may or may not receive medical care there.
Stay safe at Pride
Another "secret" was exposed this week when some media outlets, including us, decided the public has a right to know about security measures being implemented for this weekend's unofficial Pink Saturday party. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence tried to get a "media blackout" in advance of the event, apparently concerned that troublemakers would come to the Castro, as they do on Halloween. People planning to attend should be aware of the city's plans, as we report this week, and more importantly, in light of recent violent incidents in the gay neighborhood, should take basic precautions to protect themselves. Community United Against Violence suggests that during this weekend's Pride activities, people should carry a whistle and fully charged cell phone, have safe transportation plans (including designated drivers if applicable), and use the buddy system when out and about.
CUAV will have its 24-hour crisis line staffed during Pride, the number is (415) 333-4357.
We can't emphasize enough for people to be aware of their surroundings as they celebrate Pride.