URVASHI & kate

Both Urvashi Vaid and Kate Clinton have made lasting contributions to the LGBTQ+ community through their activism, advocacy, and cultural work, helping to advance the cause of equality and acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide. They were residents of Provincetown for over three decades, lending their talent, love and dedication to enrich the community.

URVASHI VAID

Urvashi was an Indian-born American LGBTQ rights activist, lawyer, and writer known for her work in civil rights and anti-war activism. She was an expert in gender and sexuality law, and held various roles at the National LGBTQ Task Force, the first woman of color to lead a national gay-and-lesbian organization. Vaid was also involved in political activism and worked for several philanthropic organizations. She authored the books Virtual Equality and  Irresistible Revolution. Vaid was also known for her personal life, as she lived with her partner, Kate Clinton, and was an aunt to gender non-conforming writer, Alok Vaid-Menon. She passed away from breast cancer in May 2022. Vaid received numerous awards for her work and books on LGBTQ+ rights and activism. Her philosophy of “intersectionality” in civil rights work and the chapter “There are Things To Do,” in Virtual Equality resonate more than ever in the fight for equal rights. 

kate clinton

Kate is a self-proclaimed reluctant New Yorker, former Provincetown year-rounder, writer and all-around good dinner guest. A faith-based, tax-paying, America-loving political humorist and family entertainer. With a career spanning thirty-six years, Kate is at the top of her game, ready to stand up to the mic and bon mot her way through presidential campaigns, LGBTQ movements, sports, religion in extremis, and media in rigor mortis. She is a social mediatrix. Clinton was one of the first prominent lesbian comedians appearing on national mainstream media in the 1980’s, and headlining fundraising events for many of the most important LGBTQ organizations around the country. She is an entertainment industry icon. 

provincetown

Provincetown, Massachusetts, often referred to as "P-town," is a historic town located at the tip of Cape Cod. It is known for its vibrant arts community, colorful LGBTQ+ culture, beautiful beaches, and rich history.

Provincetown holds a special place in LGBTQ+ history and culture, serving as a sanctuary, a center of activism, and a vibrant community where people can be their authentic selves. Its continued relevance underscores the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.

Provincetown's vibrant LGBTQ+ culture is evident in its art galleries, theaters, nightclubs, and community events. The town hosts numerous LGBTQ+ festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including Carnival Week, which attracts visitors from around the world.

Provincetown is known as a safe and inclusive community where LGBTQ+ individuals can live and visit without fear of discrimination or harassment. Its welcoming atmosphere has made it a beacon of acceptance and tolerance.

Learn more about Urvashi Vaid visit the New Yorker profile by Masha Gessen.