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New Haven Pride Center Suspends Operations Amid Misconduct Allegations

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. ends-operations-amid-misconduct-allegations.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, February 25th 2026 at 23:05 GMT by NBC Connecticut
      Locales: Connecticut, UNITED STATES

NEW HAVEN, CT - February 26, 2026 - The New Haven Pride Center, a vital resource for the LGBTQ+ community in Connecticut, announced a sudden 30-day suspension of all operations yesterday, February 25th, 2026. The decision, effective immediately, stems from allegations of misconduct leveled against Executive Director Tennyson Ostrander and a subsequent internal review initiated by the Board of Directors.

The announcement, released via a brief statement, has sent ripples of concern throughout New Haven and the wider state LGBTQ+ advocacy network. While the details of the alleged misconduct remain undisclosed, the Board emphasized the necessity of the temporary closure to prioritize the safety and well-being of staff, clients, and the broader community served by the center. This swift action underscores the severity of the situation and the Board's commitment to upholding a safe and inclusive environment - a commitment now seemingly under question.

For years, the New Haven Pride Center has been a cornerstone of support, offering crucial services ranging from counseling and support groups to legal assistance, youth programs, and community events. Its closure, even temporarily, leaves a significant gap in resources for a population that often faces systemic discrimination and unique challenges. The center's impact extends beyond direct service provision; it has fostered a sense of belonging and provided a safe haven for many within the LGBTQ+ community.

In the statement, the Board acknowledged the disruption the suspension will cause. "We recognize this suspension will impact our community, and we deeply regret that," it read. "However, we believe it is necessary to address internal issues and ensure that the New Haven Pride Center continues to be a safe and inclusive place for all." The commitment to "improved policies and procedures" suggests the internal review will not only address the current allegations but also seek to prevent similar issues from arising in the future. This proactive approach, while commendable, does little to alleviate immediate concerns regarding access to vital services.

Rerouting Support: A Patchwork Solution

The center has stated that ongoing support services are being temporarily rerouted to other local organizations. However, the feasibility and effectiveness of this transition remain uncertain. Several community members have expressed anxieties about potential strains on already overburdened resources at partner organizations. Questions remain as to whether these alternative providers possess the specific expertise and understanding required to cater to the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ population, particularly vulnerable subgroups like trans and non-binary individuals, youth experiencing homelessness, and individuals with intersecting marginalized identities.

Local organizations such as the Connecticut Legal Rights Project, Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, and several smaller mutual aid groups have indicated willingness to absorb some of the overflow. However, capacity is a major concern. "We're happy to help where we can," stated a representative from the Connecticut Legal Rights Project, "but we're already stretched thin with our existing caseload. This situation highlights the critical role the Pride Center plays, and the impact its absence will have."

The Shadow of Allegations & Calls for Transparency

The lack of specific details regarding the allegations against Tennyson Ostrander is fueling speculation and concern. While respecting the need for confidentiality during an internal investigation, many community members are calling for greater transparency. Some have criticized the Board for releasing a statement focused primarily on the suspension itself, rather than acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations and outlining the process for addressing them. This perceived lack of transparency has sparked calls for a community forum once the initial review is complete, allowing for open dialogue and accountability.

NBC Connecticut's attempts to reach Ostrander for comment have, as of this writing, been unsuccessful. The silence from both Ostrander and the Board regarding the specifics of the allegations is contributing to a climate of uncertainty and mistrust.

Long-Term Implications and the Future of LGBTQ+ Advocacy in New Haven

The next 30 days will be crucial for the New Haven Pride Center and the community it serves. The internal review must be thorough, impartial, and demonstrably committed to ensuring a safe and equitable environment. The Board's commitment to implementing "improved policies and procedures" needs to be backed by concrete action and meaningful community input.

The suspension serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by non-profit organizations, particularly those serving vulnerable populations. The importance of strong leadership, robust internal controls, and a culture of accountability cannot be overstated. The long-term implications of this situation extend beyond the immediate concerns of service disruption. It has the potential to erode trust in LGBTQ+ organizations and hinder the progress made in advocating for equality and inclusion. The future of LGBTQ+ advocacy in New Haven, and the continued provision of vital services, hinges on the outcome of this internal review and the actions taken by the New Haven Pride Center's Board of Directors.