Oklahoma’s Dennis R. Neill Equality Center in Tulsa said it’s at risk of closing its doors due to a lack of financial support.
Now, two local businesses are raising money to help keep the center open.
They need at least $100,000 by Feb. 14 to keep their support of the LGBTQ+ community going.
Pat Cawiezell is the buyer and program coordinator at Magic City Books. He told me his plan of offering a percentage of sales keeps the community in mind.
“25% of our sales through Wednesday are going towards the equality center. That’s in-store sales, books, and all of our gift items and shirts,” Cawiezell said.
Magic City Books offers an entire table of LGBTQ+ books front and center in their shop.
“They’re getting closer. It’s been a great response so far. I think people are going to be able to continue to be able to make those donations,” said Cawiezell.
All Souls Unitarian Church also stepped up to lend a hand. Randy Lewis, the church’s assistant minister, told me how they are assisting the community.