S.D.'s inaugural LGBTQ2S+ center opens today. It's The Transformation Project's vision of inclusion
Since its inception in 2019, The Transformation Project has dedicated itself to creating a haven where communities wholeheartedly embrace their transgender neighbors, where every family finds a support network, and where transgender individuals can thrive in safety and authenticity.
Now, with immense excitement, The Transformation Project invites you to be part of the historic unveiling of South Dakota's sole LGBTQ2S+ center - the Prism Community Center!
Two events are scheduled at the center, located at 500 N. Western Ave. in Sioux Falls.
A community open house will be held from 5-7 p.m. today (Friday, Oct. 27) and a Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting and open house will be held from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8.
The Prism Community Center has long been a dream of its founder, Susan Williams. This center is the realization of a long-standing commitment to provide a space where LGBTQ2S+ individuals can find community, support, and the resources they need to flourish. Thanks to the invaluable financial backing provided by wayOut LA, a dedicated organization with a thriving chapter in Los Angeles that wholeheartedly committed to fundraising for our cause throughout the entirety of 2022, coupled with the tremendous support garnered from Ariana Grande’s Protect & Defend Trans Youth Fundraiser, we were able to turn our vision into reality: the establishment of the very first LGBTQ2S+ center in the entire state of South Dakota.
The contributions from both wayOut LA and the Protect & Defend Trans Youth Fundraiser not only provided the necessary financial foundation but also served as a testament to the power of collective action and the unwavering commitment of individuals and groups towards fostering inclusivity and acceptance within our community. This groundbreaking achievement stands as a beacon of hope, representing a significant milestone in our ongoing journey towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQ2S+ individuals in South Dakota. Through the generous donations and remarkable efforts of these organizations, we are poised to make a lasting impact, serving as a hub for empowerment, education, and advocacy, and uplifting the lives of countless individuals throughout the state.
This 3,400 square-foot facility is adorned with symbols of pride and acceptance. A wall of flags represents a kaleidoscope of gender identities and orientations. Portraits of Marsha P. Johnson and Harvey Milk (seen above in an Everett Palmer photo of The Prism’s interior provided by The Transformation Project) pay homage to trailblazers in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. A progress flag, fashioned from felt pieces, stands as a testament to progress and unity.
Sarah Larson of hARTt Studio, the visionary behind the center’s design, sought to create a space that feels like a warm embrace to all who enter. Prisms, an homage to the center’s name, can be found throughout the interior. A community canvas art project, funded by a grant from the South Dakota Arts Council, brings local voices to life. Colorful furnishings and inspiring artwork complete the atmosphere.
Three substantial sized rooms are now home to Marty’s Closet, named for its founder, Stephanie Marty, a Sioux Falls transwoman. Marty’s Closet offers a haven for gender-diverse individuals seeking personalized styling sessions and a curated selection of attire at no cost to them. The center also features five staff offices, a boardroom, gender-neutral restrooms, and a beautiful outdoor patio.
The Transformation Project extends heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to this milestone. It is with immense pride that they invite the community to join them in celebrating this momentous occasion.
The Transformation Project has dedicated itself to creating a haven where communities wholeheartedly embrace their transgender neighbors, where every family finds a support network, and where transgender individuals can thrive in safety and authenticity. For more information on The Transformation Project and the Prism Community Center, please visit www.transformationprojectsd.org.
