SGN Feb 2, 2018 - Part 1

What is TRUVADA for PrEP?

TRUVADA for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a prescription medicine that is used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1. To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health.

Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to prevent getting HIV. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about TRUVADA for PrEP?

Before taking TRUVADA for PrEP:

® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-negative.

® Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. If you have flu-like symptoms, you could have recently become infected with HIV-1. Tell your healthcare provider if you had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting or at any time while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin.

While taking TRUVADA for PrEP:

Who should not take TRUVADA for PrEP?

Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP if you:

® Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status. If you are HIV-1 positive, you need to take other medicines with TRUVADA to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time.

® Also take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.

What are the other possible side effects of TRUVADA for PrEP?

® You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1.

® You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP:

® Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months.

® If you think you were exposed to HIV-1, tell your healthcare provider right away.

® To further help reduce your risk of getting HIV-1:

® Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners.

® Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you.

® Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners.

® Do not miss any doses of TRUVADA. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection.

® If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time.

TRUVADA can cause serious side effects:

® Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV and stop taking TRUVADA, your HBV may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health.

Serious side effects of TRUVADA may also include:

® Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your kidneys before and during treatment with TRUVADA. If you develop kidney problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking TRUVADA.

® Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

® Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

® Bone problems, including bone pain, softening, or thinning, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.

Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP are stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking TRUVADA for PrEP?

® All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis.

® If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TRUVADA can harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking TRUVADA for PrEP, talk to your healthcare provider to decide if you should keep taking TRUVADA.

® If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

® All the medicines you take, including prescription and overthe-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. TRUVADA may interact with other medicines. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

® If you take certain other medicines with TRUVADA, your healthcare provider may need to check you more often or change your dose. These medicines include certain medicines to treat hepatitis C (HCV) infection.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Important Facts about TRUVADA for PrEP including important warnings on the following page.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP

Before starting TRUVADA for PrEP:

• You must be HIV-1 negative. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-1 negative.

• Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include flu-like symptoms, tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting TRUVADA for PrEP.

While taking TRUVADA for PrEP:

• You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1.

• You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you think you were exposed to HIV-1 or have a flu-like illness while taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

• If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time.

• See the “How To Further Reduce Your Risk” section for more information.

TRUVADA may cause serious side effects, including:

• Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking TRUVADA. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.

ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP

TRUVADA for PrEP is a prescription medicine used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1.

• To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health.

Do NOT take TRUVADA for PrEP if you:

• Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status.

• Take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.

HOW TO TAKE TRUVADA FOR PrEP

• Take 1 tablet once a day, every day, not just when you think you have been exposed to HIV-1.

• Do not miss any doses. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection.

• Use TRUVADA for PrEP together with condoms and safer sex practices.

• Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

IMPORTANT FACTS

This is only a brief summary of important information about taking TRUVADA for PrEPTM (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. This does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your medicine.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF TRUVADA FOR PrEP

TRUVADA can cause serious side effects, including:

• Those in the “Most Important Information About TRUVADA for PrEP” section.

• New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure.

• Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

• Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

• Bone problems.

Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP include stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. These are not all the possible side effects of TRUVADA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with TRUVADA for PrEP.

BEFORE TAKING TRUVADA FOR PrEP

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

• Have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis.

• Have any other medical conditions.

• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

• Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can pass to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

• Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with TRUVADA for PrEP.

HOW TO FURTHER REDUCE YOUR RISK

• Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners.

• Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you.

• Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners.

• Do not share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.

GET MORE INFORMATION

• This is only a brief summary of important information about TRUVADA for PrEP. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more, including how to prevent HIV infection.

• Go to start.truvada.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5

• If you need help paying for your medicine, visit start.truvada.com for program information.

Shame of the Union

by Lorella Praeli

ACLU Director of Immigration Policy and Campaigns

On the floor of the House of Representatives tonight [Tuesday, January 30], Donald Trump laid out his hateful, anti-immigrant agenda. And while he may have dressed it up in rhetoric that pundits find more palatable, we heard the dog whistles loud and clear. Over the last year, Trump has given Immigration and Customs Enforcement free rein to terrorize immigrant communities who’ve worked hard to build lives here. And recently, ICE has arrested immigrant rights activists at higher rates, with harsher penalties. It sends a clear signal to an already targeted immigrant community: keep quiet, or you’ll be next.

It’s high time to put ICE back on its leash. This is urgent: Thousands of Dreamers who call this country home are facing arrest and deportation at this very moment. Add your name to stand strong against the Trump administration’s culture of fear.

At tonight’s [Tuesday, January 30] State of the Union, Trump wasn’t the only one there with a racist agenda. When Arizona Congressman Paul Gosar asked police to arrest all Dreamers in attendance, he hammered home what we all already know to be true: This administration peddles hate, and it’s an affront to the founding ideals of this country.

This administration is deliberately cultivating a climate of fear. Over the past year, many immigrants have decided to steer clear of courthouses, hospitals, and other

public spaces, for fear of arrest and deportation. Imagine being too afraid to seek lifesaving medical treatment or to seek justice against an abusive partner because of the threat of ICE agents lurking around the corner.

Sign the petition at https://www.aclu. org/action to make clear we won’t tolerate ICE abuses of power or the culture of fear they’re working to create. Our union is stronger than this.

As Congress kicks the can down the road with the Dream Act, lives are on the line. We need to stand up to ICE’s bullying – and stand for our constitutional rights. Keep up the fight.

U.S. Senator Patty Murray responds to President Trump’s State of the Union address

U.S. Senator Murray responds to President Trump’s State

WASHINGTON, DC – [On Tuesday, January 30] U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after President Trump’s State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. (To watch her presentation on video visit https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=ei631muUHE&feature=youtu.be)

“President Trump can try to take credit for the economy he inherited, and he can try to convince people that every problem in America is someone else’s fault – but one year into his Administration it is very clear that our country is more divided, more chaotic, less safe, worse for workers, women, and the middle class, and a whole lot better for millionaires, billionaires, and massive corporations.

“President Trump may be proud of his work over the past year, but I know the vast majority of people in Washington state and across the country are appalled by his rhetoric and his policies, and they want a change. So I am hopeful that this next year can be spent bringing Republicans and Democrats together to restore respect and get results in spite of President Trump’s bullying, divisiveness, and antimiddle class agenda – because there is a whole lot that needs to get done for families and communities in Washington state and across the country.

“President Trump has spent his first year in office breaking the promises he made during his campaign, so it’s hard to take his new promises today too seriously. He promised to address the opioid crisis but hasn’t proposed any new funding. He promised to improve health care

for patients but instead has sabotaged it at every opportunity. He promised tax cuts for the middle class but jammed through a tax plan that gives millionaires and billionaires another tax break. He touted infrastructure investment – something long supported by Democrats – but still can’t articulate a plan that doesn’t punish middle class families. The list of broken promises goes on and on, which makes it very difficult for Democrats or Republicans to count on anything he’s proposed today.

“Although I may not agree with President Trump’s assessment of where we are as a nation or where we should go, I remain hopeful and energized by the millions of people across the country who are fighting for something better. I was proud to invite an amazing woman named Leah Griffin from Washington state to be my guest tonight. Leah is an incredibly brave person who turned her own painful experience into a personal mission to make sure that others who experience sexual violence get the respect, support, and compassion they deserve when they seek help. I’m amazed by Leah’s dedication and compassion for advocating for meaningful legislation to address gaps in our system, and I couldn’t be prouder to help lift up Leah’s voice – and her cause – in Congress.

“Our nation is facing some serious challenges, and our government isn’t rising to them just yet. But with people like Leah fighting every single day for a stronger union and a better tomorrow, I am confident that we will get there.”

Courtesy of U.S. Senator Patty Murray’s Senate Office

JAYAPAL

continued from cover

She also issued the following response to President Trump’s State of the Union:

“Donald Trump has sown the seeds of division during his entire presidency. This speech, while calling for unity, in the next breath propagated the same divisive stereotypes that pit neighbor against neighbor, brother against brother, and sister against sister.

“Let us remember that Donald Trump created the crisis of the Dreamers and is now holding Dreamers hostage to build a wall that American taxpayers will fund. He is cruelly trying to end our familybased immigration system and diversity lottery system. He proposes protecting 1.8 million Dreamers in exchange for cutting legal immigration in half, and not allowing U.S. citizens and permanent residents to

OUR UNION

continued from cover

an IMMIGRANT – one of just a dozen or so members in the entire Congress born outside the United States – and someone who has spent my life as an immigrant, civil and human rights organizer, and activist.

I want to give a special thank you to the courageous and inspiring women who made this state of OUR union possible. My dear friends Ai-jen Poo and Kristin RoweFinkbeiner; the inspiring Tarana Burke, Cecile Richards, Monica Ramirez and Arisha Hatch. They, and women like them across this country, are standing up for a different kind of world – sisters, the future is FEMALE!

I have chosen to boycott the State of the Union because I refuse to normalize a president who foments racism and hatred simply to play to a shrinking part of his base.

As an immigrant myself, I am tired of being called the worst of the worst; I am fed up with hearing Muslims called terrorists and Mexicans called rapists; I am infuriated by the scapegoating of immigrants and the vulgarities used to describe entire African nations, all for political gain. I am outraged by the white supremacist, antiimmigrant and racist policies that seek to make America white again.

But I am also more determined than ever.

I’m done listening to more lies about standing up for working people, when every move of this administration has been to transfer wealth from workers to the top 1% in the country, strip health care from tens of millions of Americans, roll-back women’s CONSTITUTIONAL right to abortion and decimate our planet for future generations.

And I am increasingly convinced that this president is obstructing justice, violating the Constitution every day, benefiting from his financial interests. And every day he is enabled by the complicity of congressional Republicans, even those who KNOW that what is happening is wrong…and yet they do not speak out.

I am here with you tonight, sisters, because when Donald Trump says that the state of the union is strong, I want people to know it is strong DESPITE everything he does to tear us down. It is STRONG because of you in this room and the thousands across the country who are watching and re-committing to a union that gets its strength from its diversity, a union that embraces those in need instead of mocking them, a union that believes in the common good, a union that seeks every day to be more perfect, a union rooted in love and not hate.

I am here because people across our country – all of us – deserve So. Much. Better.

People like Shannon, a steelworker at a plant in Indianapolis, who supports her family through her job but has watched it move away because corporations seek cheaper labor and more profits. This, despite the narrative that the president will push tonight.

People like Graciela, a Dreamer who is now deportable because Donald Trump terminated the DACA program and MADE her deportable. Here in the U.S. since the age

bring their parents or adult children into the country. And he continued to scapegoat and stereotype immigrants, making it seem as if immigrants are all gang members. This is not a real proposal and Donald Trump is not interested in being an honest negotiator.

“When it comes to our infrastructure, Trump’s vision appears to be another giveaway to his own wealthy allies and donors. What we need is a $1 trillion public investment into our infrastructure that can create good, sustaining, family-wage jobs – not a privatization of our roads and bridges.

“Trump continues to claim that the GOP Tax Scam benefited the middle class, even though 81 percent of the $1.3 trillion goes to the wealthiest 1 percent in our country. We can’t keep doling out cash to billionaires and large corporations. We need a fair and progressive tax system based on shared responsibility that supports small businesses and workers, and funds the vital services that our communities need.

“This president boasted about stripping away environmental protections and promised to create jobs. The reality is his slash-and-burn agenda only helps big oil and gas companies. The administration is working furiously to undo regulations that ensure clean air and clean water, exposing our communities to ill health. Inexcusably, the president has pulled us out of the Paris Climate Accord and said nothing about tackling the global crisis of climate change. This is the Trump way: he simply offers no leadership.

“I chose not to attend tonight’s address not because of policy differences, but because I cannot sanction or normalize Donald Trump’s hate and indecency. The state of our union is strong when our people are strong – and I am fully committed to supporting and strengthening all of our communities, not dividing them.

“As I said tonight in my joint address with women leaders and organizers, the

state of our union is strong when fearless people stand up against tyrannical policies and do not confuse xenophobia with patriotism, or vitriol for values.

“We are strong when we call people in even as we call them out, and recognize that it is generosity and abundance, not scarcity and fear, that always win.

“We are strong when we recognize that, as a minority party, we are an opposition party. But that, to build our movement, we must also be a proposition party, putting forward our vision.

“We are strong when we organize and build our power, when we refuse to be intimidated or patronized, and when we give gratitude for those whose shoulders we stand on and allow others to stand on our shoulders.”

Courtesy of U.S. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal’s Congressional Office

of 7, Graciela holds out hope every single day that she and 1.5 million other Dreamers will stop being used as political footballs.

People like Stephanie, who learned at 19 weeks that her pregnancy could not be brought to term and had to have an abortion – and as difficult as that was, she holds a deep belief that all women must be able to make the choices that are right for themselves.

Or like Shanda, a veteran who was disabled through a horrific accident, and who nonetheless brings a deep sense of hopefulness that this country she fought for will fight for her.

I am here because we know that when we stand strong, link arms in love, organize and VOTE – we are POWERFUL.

And let me tell you – they know that too! Have you seen the list of Republicans who are retiring from Congress now and the seats that we are going to take back in November? With women candidates, black and brown, young, transgender and immigrant – we are ON THE MOVE!

We are creating OUR union, a union that respects everyone for who we are, rural or urban, red or blue, immigrant or native-born, and gives us the tools we need to thrive: good jobs so people can take care of their families, government funded health care, a free education without mountains of debt, retirement with dignity – and RESPECT.

In OUR union, women get EQUAL PAY, paid safe and sick days and a $15 minimum wage with NO tip penalty; sexual assault and harassment is not tolerated and workers’ rights are protected.

That’s OUR UNION – say it with me –

That’s…Our…Union.

In OUR union, we fight for clean air and clean water and human health. We take sustenance from our oceans and rivers, and inspiration from our mountains and plains. We hear bird song and whale whistles and we follow our Native elders’ wisdom that water truly is LIFE.

That’s OUR UNION.

In OUR union, we know that immigrants and Dreamers make our country stronger with new energy and creativity – THAT is the foundation story of OUR union.

That’s OUR UNION.

In OUR union, women MARCH by the millions, VOTE with our power, LISTEN, SHARE and AMPLIFY our stories to build movements like MeToo and Black Lives Matter, where the tidal waves of anger crest with the waves of truth telling and we have a watershed that finally brings justice across our country.

That’s OUR UNION.

In OUR union, we reject the killing of black women and men and we honor the mothers and fathers who seek nothing more than to know their child will return safe when they leave home on any evening they choose.

THAT’s OUR UNION.

In OUR union, we honor our transgender soldiers and veterans of all kinds – we don’t exclude them with discriminatory bans or cut their care; we encourage all to be who they are and love who they choose.

That’s OUR UNION.

In OUR union, racial, gender, economic and social justice are inextricably tied – because I am not a woman on Monday, an immigrant on Tuesday, a worker on

Wednesday and a mom on Thursday – I am all of those things all of the time.

That’s OUR union.

The state of OUR union is strong when fearless people stand up against tyrannical policies and do not confuse xenophobia with patriotism, or vitriol for values.

We are strong when we call people IN even as we call them OUT, and recognize that it is generosity and abundance, not scarcity and fear, that always wins.

We are strong when we recognize that, as a minority party, we are an opposition party, but to build our movement, we must also be a proposition party, putting forward our vision.

We are strong when we organize and build our power, when we refuse to be intimidated or patronized, and when we give gratitude for those whose shoulders we stand on and allow others to stand on our shoulders.

So tonight, take the hands of the people standing on either side of you and reach those arms up into the air, sink your feet firmly into the ground beneath you, and stretch yourselves toward that more perfect union that we are creating every day.

Sisters, the State of OUR union is strong because of YOU. This democracy is OURS and we are taking it back!

My name is Pramila Jayapal. I believe in the power of OUR union. And in 2018 (and always), I pledge to FIGHT. FOR. US. Thank you.

Courtesy of U.S. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal’s Congressional Office

Washington state is #2 in minimum wages

The other Washington is #1

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

On January 1, workers in 18 states and 19 cities got a raise, when minimum wages increased under local laws.

Currently, Washington state is second in the country for minimum wages – $11.50 –as a result of I-1433, which passed in 2016. Under the terms of the law, minimum wages in the state will eventually increase to $13.50 by 2020.

Seattle workers do even better than the statewide wage. Also on January 1, Seattle’s minimum wage went up to $15 per hour for large companies that offer medical benefits, and $15.45 for those that don’t. Smaller Seattle companies must now pay $11.50 an hour if they offer medical benefits, or $14 an hour if not.

Seattle has even established a city office to help workers collect the minimum wage

they’re due – the Office of Labor Standards. Workers who think their employers are failing to give them the wages they are legally entitled to can contact the office at 206-256-5297.

Nevertheless, with housing and other costs continuing to rise, Seattle minimum wage workers will remain hard-pressed to remain in the city. The median monthly cost of housing in the Seattle metropolitan area was $1,320 last year, well above the national median of $922.

The other Washington, Washington, DC, was number one in the country in minimum wage levels, having gone up to $12.50 on July 1, 2017. The DC minimum wage will continue to increase by $1 per hour every July 1, under the terms of the DC Minimum Wage Amendment Act of 2013.

Massachusetts ($11.00 per hour), California ($11.00), Arizona ($10.50), and

The OAS statement says:

of Human Rights that signatory countries must provide marriage equality and legal protections for Transgender residents.

The court had found Costa Rica is in violation of its treaty obligations under the American Convention on Human Rights (ACHR) by not providing for same-sex marriages, or legal options for Transgender people to change gender markers on their identity documents.

After the ruling, seven of the eight countries in the OAS LGBTI Core Group signed on to a statement supporting the court’s opinion, but the US government declined to do so.

The seven nations that signed the statement are Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Uruguay. The United States was the only member of the LGBTI Core Group not to sign the statement welcoming the court ruling.

“Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Uruguay, as members of the OAS LGBTI Core Group, welcome the Advisory Opinion of the InterAmerican Court of Human Rights reiterating that sexual orientation and gender identity are protected categories under the American Convention on Human Rights and affirming that States have the responsibility to recognize, guarantee and protect the rights that derive from a family bond between persons of the same sex.

“The Court’s Opinion constitutes a valuable contribution to the jurisprudence of the Inter-American Human Rights System, as it reminds States of their obligations regarding guaranteeing and protecting the rights of LGBTI persons across the region.

“Furthermore, the Court understood that a person’s full autonomy to establish a permanent and marital bond is derived from the principle of human dignity, and that such a bond deserves equal rights and

Vermont ($10.50) round out the top states for minimum wages.

At the other end of the scale are five southern states and New Hampshire, with no minimum wage laws at all. Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee are among the reddest of the red states, and have never had state minimum wage laws.

Alabama even forbids its municipalities from raising local minimum wages above the federal level of $7.25 per hour. In 2017, Louisiana lawmakers voted down a bill to increase their state’s minimum wage to $8.00, and South Carolina senators killed a proposal to increase theirs to $15.00 by 2020.

New Hampshire legislators defeated multiple attempts to raise the minimum wage rate in the last few years, the latest failure coming in March 2017.

Absent state or local laws that set a

protection regardless of the sexual orientation of the parties.

“Likewise, the Advisory Opinion reaffirms the rights of transgender people by affirming that the change of name, image adjustment, as well as the rectification of sex or gender references, in registers and in identity documents so that these are consistent with self-perceived gender identity, is a right protected by the American Convention. As a consequence, States are obliged to recognize, regulate and establish the appropriate procedures for such purposes.

“Without prejudice to the sovereign right of all States to adopt policies and legislation in a progressive manner and to evolve on this matter at their own pace, we agree with the Court’s view that lack of consensus on respecting the rights of certain groups that are characterized by their sexual orientation or their gender identity or expression cannot be considered a reason to deny or restrict their human rights or perpetuate historical or structural discrimination against them.

higher wage, employers are bound by the federal minimum wage law, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 2009, which sets the minimum wage at $7.25.

Under the FSLA, workers must be paid 1.5 times the standard wage if they work more than 40 hours a week, but – and this is big but – tipped employees can be paid just $2.13 per hour so long as they make at least the federal minimum wage after tips.

High school students in vocational school, full-time students, workers younger than 20, and disabled people can all be paid less than the minimum wage.

Twenty-nine states and the District of Columbia have chosen to set higher rates. Cities can also set their own minimum wages, as Seattle and SeaTac have done.

“The afore-mentioned members of the Core Group are optimistic that this Advisory Opinion will provide elements for States to drive legislative, administrative and public policy reforms through which progress is made in the protection and guarantee, under equal conditions, of the rights of LGBTI people.”

Ty Cobb, director of Human Rights Campaign Global and no relation to the Trump attorney of the same name, denounced the US decision.

“The Trump-Pence administration’s refusal to sign this statement in support of marriage equality and transgender rights is deeply troubling,” Cobb said.

“As the administration unleashes a torrent of attacks on the LGBTQ community here at home, it is also abandoning LGBTQ people around the world. We are in desperate need of leadership that will advance America’s commitment to LGBTQ human rights in the U.S. and abroad.”

Help create a social and support network for LGBT veterans

Hello,

My name is Johnnie Hawkins, the LGBT Coordinator for the Veterans Benefits Administration. My colleague Josh Wheeldon and I are looking to connect with community providers, veterans, and LGBT allies in the Puget Sound area to discuss creating a network that helps LGBT veterans. Our goal is to increase awareness and provide education and support around issues faced by LGBT veterans in the community. If you are interested, there will be a meet and greet on Friday, February 23, from

10am-12noon at

Sincerely,

POZSeattle and Living Positively February 2018 Valentine’s Social & Potluck

POZSeattle and Living Positively are proud to present their combined 2018 Valentine’s Social & Potluck Wednesday, February 14th from 6-8:15pm at the Cuff (13th Ave & E Pine St). Meet us in the downstairs bar for food, socializing, to catch-up with old friends, to make new ones, and a whole lot of fun. (Living Positively is a weekly social group sponsored by Lifelong for individuals affected by and living with HIV & AIDS. Living Positively offers a safe space for support, education and community.)

This being a potluck, please bring an entrée/main dish, side dish, salad, or a dessert – enough for 8-10 folks. Non-alcoholic beverages provided by The Cuff.

This event is free as always (except for the cost of adult beverages from the bar), but a suggested donation of $5 would be gladly accepted to offset the cost. This event is supported from your donations. No one is ever turned away due to lack of funds.

This event, and all others that we offer are for all HIV-Positive men and our friends, family, and support networks, (HIV-Positive

or not), regardless of age, shape, size, origin, citizenship, color, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity or any other protected characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local laws.

POZSeattle is a social organization run by and for Seattle-area HIV-positive guys that is committed to planning and promoting fun, social activities.

For questions or more information about this event, to plan your own social event through the group, to be added to our event promotions email list, or to be added to our Facebook private group, email contactpozseattle@gmail.com.

For information re: the Living Positively group, which meets Wednesdays from 5-7pm at Lifelong, 1016 E Pike St., 3rd Fl., Seattle, WA 98122, contact Lifelong at 206-957-1600.

Courtesy of POZSeattle and Living Positively

Burien Pride returns June 2 for second annual celebration

Proceeds to benefit Burien Pride Scholarship Fund

BURIEN, WA – The second annual Burien Pride celebration will take place in Burien Town Square Park on Saturday June 2, 2018 from 10am to 8pm with FREE admission to the public. All ages are welcome.

More than 2,000 attendees celebrated Burien Pride in its first year alone. The non-profit aims to meet and surpass that excitement in 2018 with new and returning musical acts, artisan crafts, all-ages activities, food vendors, special guests, family programming, and a 21+ Burien Pride Beer Garden sponsored by local brewpub Elliott Bay Brewhouse.

“The support of the community is so vital at this juncture,” said committee member Debra George, a staple in Burien.

“We encourage community members, businesses, organizations, and individuals to get involved in Burien Pride however it fits them best – whether that be through active participation volunteering day-of, sponsoring, hosting a booth, or any other contribution.”

“As we grow as an organization in our second year, it’s important that we give back to the community and foster an affirming space where everyone is welcome,” said committee member Sarah Toce. “Regard-

less of where you’re from, we invite you to join us in celebrating Burien Pride 2018.”

New this year: a portion of all proceeds from Burien Pride will benefit the local community by way of the organization’s newly-formed Burien Pride Scholarship Fund.

A drag show will take place from 6-8pm, followed by after-parties by nearby participating bars. More information to be disclosed as it becomes available.

Don’t miss out on the fun this year as Burien Pride returns on Saturday, June 2, 2018!

ABOUT BURIEN PRIDE

Burien Pride is an annual celebration produced by Discover Burien, a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. Discover Burien exists for economic development, education and promotion of the Burien Business Community. To learn more about Burien Pride or Discover Burien, please visit www. BurienPride.com or www.discoverburien. org. Like Burien Pride on Facebook!

Seattle Center Festál highlights “Generations” in 2018

Seattle Center Festál presents 23 ethnic cultural festivals in 2018. The year’s theme, “Generations,” highlights the bonds between generations that foster identity, respect and honor. It is especially relevant in 2018, when Festál celebrates its 21st year. As the series comes of age, festival producers seek to sustain their festivals with

Têt in Seattle – Vietnamese Lunar New Year | Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 10-11 | Seattle Center Armory and Fisher Pavilion | Celebrating the traditional New Year with lions, firecrackers, martial arts, dance and visual arts.

tetinseattle.org

Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration | Sunday, May 6 | Armory | Showcasing the heritage and diversity of the region’s rich API presence at a youthful and lively festival. apiheritage.com

compelling programming that appeals to multiple generations, and they are looking to younger members of their communities to take on the telling of their stories.

The Festál series brings to light the culturally rich communities who shape the character of our region. Some festivals were formed in response to war or ethnic

Irish Festival | Saturday and Sunday, March 17-18 | Armory | Honoring the region’s Irish heritage with jigs, genealogy, music and discovery. www.irishclub.org

Spirit of Africa | Saturday, May 12 | Armory | Sharing the spirit and talents of African musicians, dancers and artists from our region and beyond. www.facebook.com/spiritofwestafricafestival

Spirit of Indigenous People | Saturday, June 9 | Armory and Mural Amphitheatre | Building understanding of traditional and contemporary North American Native life. sihb.org

Iranian Festival | Saturday, August 11 | Armory, Fisher Pavilion and Mural Amphitheatre | Engaging the community in this artistically opulent and expressive culture as it enriches and entertains. iaca-seattle.org

Seattle Fiestas Patrias | Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 15-16 | Armory, Fisher Pavilion and Seattle Center Pavilion | Observing Latin American independence in ways that remind us all of the indomitable spirit of freedom. seattlefiestaspatrias.org

Diwali – Lights of India | Saturday, Oct. 20 | Armory | Brilliantly celebrating light over darkness, good over evil and the place Indian cultures in our region. facebook.com/vccfestivals

ABOUT SEATTLE CENTER FESTÁL

This illuminating series of 23 ethnic cultural festivals on weekends through -

displacement and others to unite their communities, educate the public and dispel stereotypes. For many of them, Seattle Center serves as a central place, where they can share their culture and build community through live music, dance, visual exploration, literature, film, workshops, demonstrations and hands-on learning and

Seattle’s French Fest – A Celebration of French-Speaking Cultures | Sunday, March 25 | Armory | Highlighting the world’s French speaking cultures, their influences and arts. fenpnw.org

A Glimpse of China – Chinese Culture & Arts Festival | Saturday, May 19 | Armory and Mural Amphitheatre | Offering a glimpse into the creativity, traditions and culinary skills of this ancient and artful culture. chinaartandculture.org

Festival Sundiata presents Black Arts Fest | Saturday and Sunday, June 16-17 | Armory | Providing a stage to share AfricanAmerican heritage, inspiration and arts with the broader community. www.festivalsundiata.org

BrasilFest | Sunday, August 19 | Armory, Mural Amphitheatre and Fisher Roof | Introducing the broader community to the arts and dynamisim of South America’s most multiculture, multi-ethnic nation. brasilfest.org

The Italian Festival | Saturday and Sunday, Sept; 29-30 | Armory, Fisher Pavilion and Seattle Center Pavilion | Underscoring the culture’s influences, achievements and culinary expression in our region and around the world. festaseattle.com

Dia de Muertos – A Mexican Celebration to Remember Our Departed | Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 27-28 | Armory | Keeping deeply spiritual traditions alive with elaborate altars, face painting, sugar skulls and processions. diademuertosenseattle.org

out the year seeks to connect people in ways that build understanding, dispel stereotypes and generate pride among the generations who participate in these

play for kids and adults. The festivals also feature authentic foods for purchase and ethnic marketplaces.

For more information, visit Seattle Center Festál at www.seattlecenter.com/ festal. For more information on each festival, visit each festival’s website.

Here are the festivals in the 2018 series:

Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival | Saturday and Sunday, April 20-22 | Armory, Fisher Pavilion and Seattle Center Pavilion | Welcoming springtime and honoring U.S.-Japanese friendship through imaginative programming and visual arts. cherryblossomfest.org

Polish Festival Seattle | Saturday, July 7 | Armory, Mural Amphitheatre and Fisher Roof | Highlighting the creativity and contributions of Seattle’s long established Polish community. polishfestivalseattle.org

Tibet Fest | Saturday and Sunday, August 25-26 | Armory and Fisher Roof | Promoting a distinct religious and cultural heritage, while involving and educating younger Tibetan generations. washingtontibet.org

CroatiaFest | Sunday, Oct. 7 | Armory | Calling attention to the rich heritage of Croatia and its cultural presence in our region. croatiafest.org

Hmong New Year Celebration | Saturday, Nov. 3 | Armory | Preserving ancient Southeast Asian highland cultures with this multigenerational harvest festival. hmongofwa.org

shared experiences. Seattle Center Festál is produced with the generous support of KUOW 94.9 Public Radio, Coca-Cola, Alaska Airlines, T-Mobile, 4Culture, the

Hawaiian

Festival | Sunday, Sept. 9 | Armory, Mural Amphitheatre and Fisher Roof | Attracting enthusiastic crowds with Hawaiian spirit and hands-on learning. seattlelivealohafestival.com

Turkfest | Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 13-14 | Armory and Fisher Rooftop | Marking the extraordinary arts and expression of a culture infused with eastern and western influences. turkfest.org

Seattle Center Festál is a Seattle Center public program. Admission is free-of-charge. For more information on this collection of ethnic cultural events and other public programming at Seattle Center, visit www. seattlecenter.com or call 206-684-7200.

City of Seattle and Seattle Center Foundation.

Courtesy of Seattle Center Festál