Want a free makeover? BU Wellness Network has you covered.
The Indianapolis nonprofit is offering facials, haircuts, hairstyling, makeup and nail services in honor of National Transgender HIV Testing Day on Thursday, April 18. HIV testing and information about sexual health also will be available onsite.
Organizer Ty’La Sanders is a prevention specialist at BU Wellness Network, which focuses on improving the health of the Black community — especially those living with HIV. The organization offers support groups, free testing for sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy screenings, free condoms and lubricants and emergency funding for housing.
The gender-affirming makeover event is primarily for transgender and nonbinary community members, Sanders said, but all are welcome.
“It’s really hard for us to feel affirmed in our everyday battles with the laws, stigma and stereotypes within society,” Sanders said. “This is just about feeling good and letting your hair down.”
The event will be held from 4-7 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6050 N Meridian St. Students from Empire Beauty School are volunteering to do the makeovers. Food and drinks will be provided.
[The Damien Center will be opening new headquarters at the end of the year.]
Sanders underscored the importance of makeovers for the community: “As a trans person, you see the person you are on the inside and you make yourself that on the outside. You strive to be your higher self.”
For more information about BU Wellness Network and upcoming events, visit buwellness.org or contact 317- 931-0292.
Mirror Indy reporter Mary Claire Molloy covers health. Reach her at maryclaire.molloy@mirrorindy.org. Follow her on X @mcmolloy7.