Today, the TriCounty Disproportionality and Disparities Committee is hosting the third annual Pathways to Health Equity LGBTQ Summit from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Beaumont Event Center located in downtown at 700 Crocket St.

“We already have 120 people registered,” Sandy Wilson, therapist and volunteer, said.

Seven guest speakers will educate attendees on disparities and adversities faced by the LGBTQ community. There will also be a moderated panel discussion conducted by transgender people.

The panel include Dr. Cate Carrabelle, clinical psychologist, Tony Arliss Smith, Rose Reindel, Tisha Kulovitz, whose son is transgender and Charity Goodwin. Two people will moderate.

Wilson said that there are also about 27 volunteers from the criminal justice system and social services who will be on-hand for support and questions.

Topics will include gender and Sexuality 101, culturally competent healthcare and LGBTQ advocacy.

Wilson said the most important thing is having the conversation, the dialogue and having a safe place to ask questions.

A self-serve lunch is included around noon along with drag performances at 12:30 p.m. by Ashley Davenport, Jessi James and Olivia Gardener.

“It’s going to be a lovely, well-organized and well-behaved event,” Wilson said.

The event is free and open to the public. Vendors and attendees should register at pathwaysbeaumont3rd.eventbrite.com, call Sandy Wilson at (409) 363-9733 or email at SandyWilson.Therapist@gmail.com