EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW As we approach June 26th and the International March on the United Nations to Affirm the Human Rights of Lesbian and Gay People, it is important that the most up-to-date information get out as widely as possible. Please make as many copies of this piece as you need. *** BUS AND CAR PARKING: Several locations for bus and car parking have been secured in and around New York City. A small fee will be charged for each vehicle. We need to know about how many buses, vans, cars, etc. you are bringing. When you call, we will give you details about the most convenient parking location. All of the local public transportation systems are working with us and they will provide extra service. PLEASE DO NOT PLAN TO DRIVE A CAR IN MANHATTAN ON SUNDAY, JUNE 26TH. As soon as you know the number of buses and other vehicles you are bringing, please call +1-212-741-0132. *** THE DAY'S EVENTS: a) The day begins with the historic unfurling of the mile-long Rainbow Flag from 37th Street to 57th Street along First Avenue. We are encouraging everyone to line the sidewalks of First Avenue to witness and experience what promises to be a moving event as the world's largest flag--the flag of our movement--is opened for the world to see. b) The first contingents of the March will step off at 11am--SHARP! Contingents are being asked to assemble on a staggered time schedule in order to avoid having people wait for hours before they begin to march. If your group has registered, you will receive all of the details regarding where and when to assemble. If you have not yet registered, please do so today by mailing or faxing the enclosed registration form. c) The March will proceed north on First Avenue, turn west on 57th Street to Sixth Avenue and then north into Central Park. Once in the Park there is almost one mile to walk before arriving at the Great Lawn. d) The Rally will be held on the Great Lawn in Central Park from 1pm to 7pm and will include a wide range of speakers and cultural presentations from around the world. *** MARCH FORMATION AREA: The 62 contingents, the mile-long Rainbow Flag and the motorcycles will all assemble around the United Nations--from 35th Street to 47th Street and from First Avenue to Third Avenue. If your group has registered, you will get information about the specific block on which you will assemble. Thoughout the weekend, and at the formation area, written information clearly explaining where each group assembles will be distributed. *** WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING: hat, sunscreen, good walking shoes, some food and/or drinks (but not so much that it is too heavy to carry), quarters for the public phones, a radio (WBAI-FM will be broadcasting from the March and Rally). And of course your banners, signs, posters, t-shirts and anything else that helps express your message. A word of caution: the NYC Police Department will not allow you to carry verticle wooden sticks in the march. Also, buy sunscreen before you leave for NYC, it will be expensive that weekend. *** HIV/AIDS RESOURCES: A specially prepared resource guide for people who are HIV+ and PWA's is being prepared and will be available throughout the Gay Games IV, Stonewall 25 and other events taking place during this time. Special medical facilities and emergency care arrangements have been made. Please call our national office for more information on this: +1-212-626-6925. *** PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AND THE HEARING IMPAIRED: Sign language interpreters will be available at the March assemble area and at the Rally. Trolleys for anyone who needs to ride will be available thoughout the March route, making it easier for people to get to the Rally site. At the Rally, there will be a specially designated area close to the stage and to trees which provide shading. A medical tent will be adjacent to this area. For more information call Phillis Wolff at +1-212-255-2587 (disabilities), or Vickie Hamilton, using the relay at +1-800-421-1220, then her TDD 245-3727 (deaf and hearing impaired). *** CHILDREN'S SPACE: An area near the Rally site will be set up with activities for children (infancy to 12 years). Parents must be with their children--this is NOT a drop-off daycare center. Organized activities are being planned, as well as free play and napping spots. There will be tours to some of the areas of the park that children might be especially interested in. Of course, people of all ages are also welcome to participate in the March and Rally. To make donations, to volunteer, or to get more information, call Valerie Woods at +1 315-425-8987. *** LOBBYING: People from around the world and throughout the U.S. will be lobbying their Missions to the United Nations as well as some of the UN agencies. A coordinating and informational center will eb set up on the 12th floor of 777 UN Plaza (corner of 44th Street and First Avenue) on 6/23, 6/24, 6/27 and 6/28. *** SPECIAL SPACES: Several constiuency and regional organizers have arranged for meeting/connecting places. Here is what we know of so far: Great Plains and Rocky Mountain Regions: 6/18-6/27 Hotel Wellington. Call Bill Carlisle at +1-212-247-3900. Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine: 6/24-6/27 Gateway Hilton, Newark NJ -- 25 minutes to NYC on public transportation. North and South Carolina: 6/25 -- 7-9pm. Public School #3, Hudson at Grove St. in Greenwich Village ($7 sliding scale). Contact: Chris Ingall at +1-910-578-5441. Students and Young People: Work is underway to find a Meet and Greet space. Call Meryl Hooker at +1-212-626-6925 for more information. Women: 6/24-6/26 -- a safe women's space for all women at the New York NOW office, 22 West 21st Street (between 5th and 6th Ave) will provide information, calendar of women's events and support services. HOTLINE: +1-212-727-1945.