The Newark LGBTQ Community Center was born out of both tragedy and resilience. Sparked by the heartbreaking 2003 murder of 15-year-old Sakia Gunn—a young Black lesbian killed in Newark simply for being herself—our community mobilized with renewed urgency to demand safe, affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ people, especially those of color. Her legacy lives on in our mission and in the public art that honors her memory, like the Gateways to Newark mural. The mural honoring Sakia is part of a mural project called #GatewaystoNewark that spans over a mile on McCarter Hwy and features works by dozens of artists.

 

After a decade-long struggle for recognition, funding, and political support, the Center officially opened its doors on October 3, 2013. It was built not by institutions, but by a coalition of determined organizers, community members, and a powerful circle of lesbian women of color—who refused to let the dream of an LGBTQ+ sanctuary in Newark be forgotten.

 

Founded by Liberation in Truth, a progressive faith community rooted in the Unity Fellowship Church movement, our center began as the Liberation in Truth Social Justice Center and evolved into today’s Newark LGBTQ Community Center.

 

We are more than a physical space—we are a living testament to activism, community care, and the power of chosen family. Today, we continue to serve as a hub for connection, healing, celebration, art, culture, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals across generations, with a deep focus on racial and social justice.

 

​​​​​We provide support, advocacy, and a safe, inclusive space for the Newark LGBTQ+ community.

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​We envision a Newark where the LGBTQ+ community is visible, thriving, and celebrated.