PORTLAND—“It’s a space where everyone can feel safe, heard, and valued. It’s truly a special place.” The words of Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings Bank, speak to the importance of the Equality Community Center, a facility that serves as a workplace and community center for LGBTQ+ and social justice organizations but more importantly, stands as a beacon of welcome, inclusion, and the preservation of dignity for countless residents in Portland and beyond.
“The center provides social and educational programming for all while supporting the most marginalized in our communities,” said Christopher O’Connor, executive director of the ECC. “We believe that achieving equality and equity requires visibility and access, and we aim to serve as the first ‘point of contact’ for people in need, but also as an incubator for ideas and creativity to ensure that everyone who seeks inclusivity knows there is a warm and open-hearted gathering place waiting for them.” The ECC offers a long list of support groups, assistance programs, and community gatherings and also provides office space to many organizations that seek to do the same, including EqualityMaine, MaineTransNet, Pride Portland!, Cross Cultural Community Services, Democracy Maine, Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine, Through These Doors, and others.
A large “great room” on the first floor is frequently filled for events, lectures, and performances, and the adjoining Safe Combinat.
