in: http://www.gaystarnews.com/
Following complaints from neighbors, Beijing LGBT Center forced to find new premises
Following complaints from neighbors, Beijing LGBT Center now face eviction as soon as next month.
'It’s really a shame,' said acting executive director Stephen Leonelli. 'It’s going to be really challenging to find another place.'
Just three months ago the Center moved into spacious new offices but have been told by their landlord that they have to leave by the end of July, saying their work is ‘too sensitive’.
Neighbors in the residential block in the Chaoyang area of Beijing complained to the landlord after learning that the visitors to the Center are gay.
Mostly funded by community donations, an unexpected office move will drain resources drastically. They raise 10,000RMB ($1,575, €1,270) a month from a cut of entry fees on gay nights at Alfa bar, near Beijing’s Worker’s Stadium; but current rent is 9,000RMB. ‘And it’s unlikely we’ll find anywhere cheaper,’ says Leonelli.
The Center employs three staff - executive director, program manager and administrator - and has around 50 volunteers running regular events and working towards empowering emerging Beijing’s LGBT community. Active in Beijing since 2008, they use the space for film screenings, talks, support groups and free counselling.
The authorities largely permit Beijing LGBT Center to work unhindered, but a recent Rainbow Ride cycle around the city for IDAHO (International Day Against Homophobia) was cancelled by police after being widely publicised in the media.
http://www.gaystarnews.com/
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