North County LGBTQ Resource Center to Open in Oceanside

A center for gay, lesbian and transgendered citizens is opening next month near Camp Pendleton.

The North County LGBTQ Resource Center at 510 North Coast Highway is set to open Dec. 4. Max Disposti, executive director of the North County LGBT Coalition, said he and others have received some 200 inquiries from military members.

But even with September’s repeal of the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy, many Marines and sailors are still leery about coming out publicly.

“They’re inquiring a lot before they present themselves,” he said, "They want to make sure that they're protected from a legality point of view."

The community is seeking Marines and sailors who can be liaisons with the base.

“We are trying to find ways to communicate in a more formal way,” he said.   

The 1000-square-foot facility will have a youth center, kitchen and meeting rooms and will host various support groups for both military members and civilians including some for those who plan to come out with their sexuality.

Because of the concern, Disposti said, members of the North County LGBT Coalition will maintain the confidentiality of those who visit the center.

“It’s not a place where we force people to come out,” he said. “It’s a place for people to feel safe.”