Issue 22 Volume 40
Celebrating 39 Years!
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SGN ’s 2012 PRIDE EVENTS CALENDAR p. 11
Seattle Gay News SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY
SO&P responds Federal court throws out to critics on Pride major part of DOMA Parade fees Group faces criticism for price hikes, snubs of marriage equality champions
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor The board of directors of Seattle Out and Proud (SO&P), the group responsible for the annual Seattle Pride Parade, has recently come under fire for raising the price for politicians to march in the parade and for not choosing State Rep. Jamie Pedersen and State Sen. Ed Murray – the House and Senate champions of Washington State’s
marriage equality bill – as parade grand marshals. SO&P’s recent woes began when local Gay rights advocate and political campaign manager Thomas Pitchford created a petition on Change.org, calling on the group to “end price discrimination + be transparent.” “Public officials and candidates for public office want to partici-
A three-judge panel of the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on May 31 that Section 3 of DOMA is unconstitutional. The decision in Gill v. Office of Personnel Management was unanimous, and sustains a previous ruling in the case by federal District Judge Joseph Tauro. The 1st Circuit stayed its ruling pending a U.S. Supreme Court decision in the case, meaning the plaintiffs cannot receive the economic benefits denied by DOMA unless and until the high court rules in their favor. Section 3 of DOMA codifies the definition of marriage as only between a man and a woman for federal purposes. The ruling does not affect other sections of DOMA, including the reciprocity provision, which says states are not required to recognize legal same-sex marriages performed in other jurisdictions.
see so&p page 5
see doma page 20
associated press
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
Members of the LGBT community protest the Defense of Marriage Act outside a Democratic fundraiser in Boston in 2009
Ref. 74 petitions to Secretary New Washington poll of State’s office on Monday finds broad support Sarah Weiser / AP
Joseph Backholm, the executive director of the Family Policy Institute of Washington, filing the referendum that seeks to overturn the same-sex marriage bill that was signed into law by Governor Chris Gregoire.
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Opponents of marriage equality announced May 30 they have reached the number of signatures needed to qualify a proposed referendum – Referendum 74 – seeking to overturn a new law legalizing same-sex marriage in Washington State. In addition, the group said they could turn in the signatures to the Secretary of State’s office as early as Monday. Joseph Backholm, with Preserve Marriage Washington, said that the campaign has at least 150,000 signatures on hand. Backers of R-74 need to turn in 120,577 valid voter signatures by June 6 to qualify for the ballot. The Secretary of State’s office recommends that campaigns submit at least 150,000 signatures, to provide a cushion for invalid or duplicate signatures. “We feel that it’s going to be adequate to get it on the ballot,” Backholm told The Seattle Times. “We’re quite confident of that.” According to Backholm, the 150,000 signatures gathered thus
for marriage equality
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
A new poll released May 30 shows that a large majority of Washington voters believe it should be legal for Gay and Lesbian couples to marry. The poll, conducted by Strategies 360 (S360) for the Associated Press, found that 54% of those see r74 page 20 surveyed said same-sex marriage
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should be legal, while only 33% thought it should be illegal. The numbers are essentially the same as those found by a similar poll done last September, pollsters said, and indicate that voters have already formed definite opinions on this issue. “If you look at the poll we did in September 2011, the results are alsee poll page 20
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Owner reflects on partnership with Bailey-Boushay House james whitely / seattle gay news
Mike Andrew, Miryam Gordon, Anthony Greer, Shaun Knittel, Albert Rodriguez, James Whitely
Madison Valley’s Cafe Flora celebrates 20 years
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Publication of names, photographs or likenesses of any person, organization, event or business in this publication cannot be taken as any indication of the sexual orientation of the person, organization, event or business. Opinions expressed in bylined articles, columns, and letters are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff or management of this paper. Seattle Gay News welcomes unsolicited material, including letters to the editor, but reserves the right to edit or reject material. All rights revert to authors upon publication. We assume no liability for loss or damage of materials, solicited or not. We invite feedback, please write. And please play safe. It is our policy that no money shall be refunded if you choose to cancel your subscription or ad. However, credit towards any size ad will be given for the balance owed. No exceptions.
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Seattle Gay News
Cafe Flora owner Nat Stratton-Clarke
by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer On Saturday, June 2, Cafe Flora will hold its 20th anniversary celebration. The restaurant, just outside Capitol Hill in the Madison Valley neighborhood, has maintained longtime connections with various LGBT service organizations, including the BaileyBoushay House, which opened its doors the very same year as Cafe Flora, on the very
June 1, 2012
same block. The 20th anniversary event will be “farmers’ market style.” Cafe Flora’s growers and vendors, some of which are regulars at the Broadway Farmers’ Market, will set up shop throughout the restaurant as guests enjoy fine vegetarian food, cocktails, local wines and beers, and live music. “We wanted to celebrate with [our customers], and with the people we buy our
produce from and our coffee from,” Nat Stratton-Clarke, owner of Cafe Flora, told SGN. “We did a fundraiser every year before they [Bailey-Boushay] outgrew us,” said Stratton-Clarke. It’s clear he looks upon the restaurant’s history with Bailey-Boushay with fondness and affection. Thus, for Stratton-Clarke, holding the 20th anniversary party as a fundraiser for the house was a chance to return to the restaurant’s roots. All ticket proceeds from the event will benefit Bailey-Boushay House. Stratton-Clarke, who has owned Cafe Flora for four years, was general manager for many years prior and said the ties to Bailey-Boushay were a “selling point” for him when he was offered the restaurant. “We’re turning 20,” Stratton-Clarke said. “It’s a huge accomplishment.” As Stratton-Clarke points out, there aren’t many vegetarian restaurants that make it to 20 years – let alone many restaurants at all these days. Unlike many vegetarian restaurants (and most vegan ones), Cafe Flora doesn’t really serve “fake meat.” From the time the restaurant was conceived of, it intended to put on its tables food from around the globe that just happened to be vegetarian. Some staples, like the Oaxaca Tacos, have been on the menu since the restaurant opened its doors. Half of the menu usually consists of these standards, while the other half is seasonal or rotating items. Cafe Flora serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as brunch on weekends. “For us, using local ingredients … not only is it supporting the community, but it’s better quality,” Stratton-Clarke said. “I’ve been to the farms that we buy from. I want the guests to know that I vouch for these farms and I’m serving them the best food I can find.” Cafe Flora’s ties to the LGBT community don’t end with Bailey-Boushay. The restaurant has typically been one of the largest fundraisers each year during Lifelong AIDS Alliance’s Dining Out for Life campaign, and Stratton-Clarke serves as board president of Camp Ten Trees, a summer camp for LGBT youth and/or children of LGBT youth. Cafe Flora offers a Ten Trees Cocktail, pine-infused St. Germain with orange, in tribute to the camp. If you’ve never been there before, the anniversary party will be a great introduction to Cafe Flora. For $30, you get to not only sample some quality vegetarian food, beers, and wines, but you will help an important charity as well. VIP admission, $50, gets you access to special anniversary cocktails, early admission, and other goodies. To buy tickets visit www.cafeflora.eventbrite.com. Cafe Flora is located at 2901 E. Madison St.
Celebrating 39 Years!
by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer On May 29, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for LGBT Americans, endorsed Jay Inslee for governor of Washington, at Cupcake Royale on Capitol Hill. “I am very honored to accept the endorsement of the Human Rights Campaign, and proud to add my voice to chorus calling for equality and fairness here in Washington,” said Inslee. Lacey All, Seattle’s board member of the HRC, cited Inslee’s leadership in Congress – voting for the repeal of discriminatory laws such as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and the Defense of Marriage Act – in addition to his advocacy of marriage equality in Washington State, as she announced the endorsement.
Inslee reassured attendees of his commitment to marriage equality. “For 39 years I’ve been in a perfect marriage – the marriage of a Husky and a Cougar. My wife, Trudi, and I have raised three wonderful boys, we get to enjoy being grandparents, and wherever my life and career have taken me, I am blessed to have always had a partner I could count on. When I look at the blessings my marriage has brought to my life, I can’t imagine denying those things to anyone else. And I can’t imagine what my reaction would have been if some politician had said, ‘No matter how much you love each other, you can’t be married.’” Jody Hall, the founder of Cupcake Royale, who often uses her position as Seattle’s cupcake queen to push for progressive social change, offered special Jay Inslee cupcakes for the event.
SO&P
continued from cover pate in Seattle Pride, but at $1,200, registration is $1,000 more than that of a nonprofit, and $500 above that of a national nonprofit. Why?” asks Pitchford in the petition. “SO&P cites the reason of ‘increasing cost associated with putting on such a large event. Your registration fees help cover the cost of organizing and producing the parade.’” Pitchford told SGN that SO&P officials told him the price hikes were associated with the cost of putting on such a large event. That is an answer Pitchford wasn’t willing to just accept. SO&P receives a large amount of money from corporate sponsors, and if that money comes up short, he said, the burden of funding shouldn’t be allocated to politicians by raising their parade entry fee. “It makes no sense to bilk people who support us with a number significantly higher than other entries,” said Pitchford. “Telling them they will absorb these ‘rising costs’ says to [elected officials] and candidates, ‘Go away, unless you can pay much more than everyone else.’” When I spoke with Pitchford during a telephone interview on Wednesday, he maintained that the petition was not meant to be malicious. Instead, he said, “This is a matter of challenging them to do better.” Point blank, Pitchford asserted, “If fundraising is a problem then they need to change the way they do business. I understand that rising costs are an issue but SO&P has offered no real justification for why they increased the price for politicians over everyone else.” And it isn’t just Pitchford who has a problem with the fee hike. Rep. Jamie Pedersen recently spoke out against SO&P as well, telling The Stranger, “One of the key purposes of Pride has been for the community to show its political power and support. When you have someone like Senator Ed Murray or me making the calculation that it doesn’t pencil out to march, there is something drastically wrong.” So how much does it cost to march? I asked SO&P officials to provide our readers with a breakdown of fees. SO&P board member Michael Campbell reports that, for the 2012 Seattle Pride Parade, registration fees were as follows: • $1,200 for elected officials, political candidates, and political organizations; • $200 for individual and local nonprofits with a budget of less than $250,000; • $450 for local nonprofits with a budget greater than $250,000; and
• $700 for government agencies, local businesses, and national nonprofits. To encourage early registration, Campbell says, SO&P offers a discounted rate of up to $200. “When I was president of SO&P, we charged the politicians $500 to help cover the cost of the parade,” said Eric Gauthier, who left the organization in 2011 after 10
years of work. “We always did our due diligence to keep the parade fees equitable and fair, and reviewed them on an annual basis.” Gauthier says under his direction SO&P always kept the prices for politicians lower than for local businesses. “Politicians, local and state level, are very important to the Gay rights movement, and we did what we could to make sure that all who wanted to participate in the parade were given the opportunity to.” When I asked SO&P to explain why they
jaime smith
Human Rights Campaign endorses Jay Inslee
Cupcakes from Cupcake Royale were offered during the event.
casting an annual event is knowing who and how many of last year’s contingents will participate this year … when we know that a participant will probably not participate next year, yet we still have to fund the event next year, it makes sense that we charge them more than we would a ‘repeat customer.’” Still, for some members of the community, that rationale simply does not pan out. Is SO&P in such serious financial straits that the parade rests on whether or not candidates and elected officials pay $1,200 instead of $500? “Seattle Out & Proud needs to open its books to the public,” demands Thomas Pitchford in his Change.org petition. I asked SO&P officials to provide SGN with a financial breakdown of last year’s parade. According to them, SO&P does not have a surplus and lost $4,779.11 on the event. This is what SO&P provided: “Aside from in-kind donations from our generous sponsors, the following is all cash contributions the organization received, including sponsorship and parade fees in 2011. These numbers also include all event expenditures, which we have seen an increase from in 2012 due to coverage of equipment the city no longer provides, the closure of the Union Street off-ramp, and others. You will notice we did not have a surplus and made arrangements with one of our vendors to pay the overage with 2012 funds once they arrived in March 2012.” SO&P officials maintain that until the Slog post, “no one at SO&P was made aware of any ill thoughts towards our efforts.” In addition to the fee controversy, SO&P officials have had to defend their decision not to choose Rep. Pedersen and Sen. Murray as parade grand marshals. The work the two lawmakers did to ensure the passage of the state’s marriage equality bill was widely hailed as heroic – and that’s not to mention the enormous contributions both men have made to the local LGBT movement over the years. When asked about their decision not to honor Murray and Pedersen, SO&P officials program to promote.” placed ownership of the gaffe onto the comCampbell says SO&P doesn’t view poli- munity. ticians as “repeat business” because cam“When the Marshals were chosen, much paigns are basically active every other year. like the [parade] theme, the [marriage “In 2011, we had seven political campaigns equality] bill had not been signed,” officials – all of them (except Ed Murray) were city told SGN in a statement. “SO&P has chopositions, and there was an active city elec- sen to honor the Governor and Equal Rights tion that each of them was running for. Not Washington, who have been in the fight one of them, including Ed Murray, is par- for many years. It’s unfortunate that it has ticipating this year, and one of them partici- ticked people off because very few people pated the previous year.” “Part of financial responsibility and foresee so&p page 17 charge politicians more than they would a local business or nonprofit, Campbell responded, “A feasible use of a parade for a political campaign is to get someone elected, and is therefore an advertising platform for the campaign. One can argue the social message for the candidate, but the campaign exists simply for the election of the candidate; a campaign has no social message or
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by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Lambda Legal and the ACLU of Illinois filed separate lawsuits against the county clerk of Cook County, Illinois, on May 30, claiming that his failure to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples violates the equal protection and due process clauses of the Illinois Constitution. Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn has been a vocal supporter of marriage equality, and The Chicago Tribune reported that he might not contest the lawsuits. Quinn’s office released a statement on May 30, saying the governor “supports marriage equality.” “We have not seen the lawsuits,” the statement continued. “From recent press coverage, it appears the lawsuits will not be against the state, but against the clerk of Cook County. We will review the lawsuits once copies become available.” The two Illinois lawsuits are similar to ones filed in California not long after the state enacted a domestic partnership law that provided the legal equivalent of civil unions. Those suits led the California Supreme Court to rule that it was unconstitutional to ban same-sex marriage, a decision that was reversed at least temporarily by Prop 8. A total of 25 couples from across Illinois are plaintiffs in the two suits. Each couple tried to get a marriage license from the Cook County clerk’s office in May and was denied based on the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, which prohibits same-sex marriage. “A marriage between 2 individuals of the same sex is contrary to the public policy of this State,” the law says. Cook County Clerk David Orr was report-
edly out of the country, but his office issued a statement on his behalf, saying that he, too, supports marriage equality. “The time is long past due for the state of Illinois to allow county clerks to issue marriage license to couples who want to make their commitment. I hope these lawsuits are the last hurdle to achieving equal marriage rights for all,” the statement said. “We always thought this was something that had to happen,” said ACLU attorney John Knight. “We think it’s time to try in the courts, and we’re optimistic about our chances.” Knight added that he is confident marriage equality can be won through the state’s judicial system, and therefore there is no reason to wait for the state legislature to reverse its previous stand against marriage rights for Gay and Lesbian couples. “When people think about their love and commitment to one another, they think about marriage. Civil unions feel like it’s entering into something for another reason.” “We feel like we’re at a tipping point,” said Camilla Taylor, a Lambda Legal attorney who argued a similar case that led to the legalization of same-sex marriage in Iowa. “You reach a point where you can no longer tell these families that they should hold off. You lack the justification when we reach a national moment, when it’s clear that our time is now.” Several plaintiff couples told reporters that while civil unions were supposed to give them all the rights enjoyed by married opposite-sex couples, they still fell short in many important respects. Carlos Briones and Richard Rykhus, of Evanston, have been together for 11 years and have a 7-year-old son, Ty. They are plaintiffs in the ACLU suit. After President Obama expressed his sup-
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor This weekend, hundreds of active Mormons will march at the head of the Utah Pride Parade to show support for the Beehive State’s LGBT community, reports The Salt Lake Tribune. “There have been so many years of heartbreak and strife between the LDS and LGBT community,” Erika Munson, organizer of the group Mormons Building Bridges, told the Tribune. “We just want to send out a message of love to the LGBT community that God loves them because of
who they are.” Munson is not a Lesbian, and she’s not someone who became involved because of a Gay family member or friend. Rather, she said, she started the group a few weeks ago to support LGBT Utahans, to show other Latter-day Saints that it’s all right to embrace the LGBT community, and to reach out to LGBT teens in hopes of stemming suicide rates. “We’re going to be marching in our church clothes,” Munson said, “and we want other LDS people to see us and say, ‘Oh, they’re just like me. Maybe I can reach
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port for same-sex marriage, the couple had a talk with their son about their status – Briones and Rykhus were married in Canada, and that marriage is now recognized in Illinois as a civil union. “Most couples who’ve been together in a long-term, committed relationship … don’t have to give a 10-minute explanation to their children about how their relationship is or is not recognized,” Rykhus said. “We just want that same recognition.” Lambda Legal plaintiffs Theresa Volpe and Mercedes Santos have been together for 20 years and have two children, ages 4 and 7. On the first day civil unions were legal in Illinois, Volpe and Santos joined more than two dozen other couples for a union ceremony in Millennium Park,
“After having a civil union for a year now, it just kind of defined even more the differences between our family and other families who are married,” Santos said. “No one really understands what a civil union is,” Volpe added. “Our daughter had to explain that to her classmates. We shouldn’t have to explain that. Our daughter shouldn’t have to explain that.” “We’ve had a year of civil unions,” the ACLU’s Knight summed up. “We understand and have seen and talked to a number of people about the problems with civil unions. It’s as we expected. You provide a different and new and not terribly understandable relationship status, and you send a pretty loud message that Gay and Lesbian couples aren’t good enough for the honored tradition of marriage.”
teachers, friends, and neighbors, and to Jesus’ message of love. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints teaches that it is no sin to have same-sex attraction, but the church condones sexual relations only within the bonds of marriage between a man and a woman. The Utah-based faith also helped pass California’s Proposition 8, which limited marriage in the Golden State to heterosexuals. “I felt that there must be people like me,” Munson said, “who are committed to the church, who believe in the gospel, and who want to live Jesus’ word, which is ‘Love one another.’” Munson’s group is not affiliated with the Mormons Building Bridges organizer Erika Munson LDS church or any out to a Gay person in my congregation or political party, and though it started just a few weeks ago, it’s been gaining steam not be afraid to discuss this issue.’” Munson got involved after seeing her through social media. As of Wednesday, the own children, as young adults, question group had more than 900 members on Facetheir Mormon faith because of its stand on book, and more than 100 had committed homosexuality, which to them seemed at to Sunday’s march in downtown Salt Lake odds with their own attitudes toward LGBT City. courtesy affirmation
Mormons to march in church clothes in Utah pride parade
courtesy illinois observer
ACLU and Lambda Legal challenge Illinois on marriage
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Celebrating 39 Years!
California’s Senate passes bill to ban Gay ‘therapy’
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor A bill that would ban therapeutic programs aimed at reversing same-sex attraction in children and teens passed California’s Senate on Wednesday, moving the state a step closer to becoming the first in the nation to ban the controversial treatments. The 23-13 vote in the Democratic-controlled body marked a major victory for LGBT rights advocates, who say such “therapy” has no medical basis because ho-
mosexuality is not a disorder, and that trying to “cure” it can cause depression and lead to substance abuse and suicide. The bill still needs to be passed by the state Assembly and signed by Democratic Governor Jerry Brown before it can become law. The Assembly, also controlled by Democrats, is expected to take it up within a month. “These therapies are dangerous,” Sen. Ted Lieu (D-Torrance), who sponsored the bill, said on the Senate floor before the vote, citing the case of Ryan Kendall, an outspoken Gay activist who underwent such therapy as a child. “[Ryan] was told that being Gay made God cry,” Lieu said. “He testified that for 10 years of his life, he wanted to commit suicide. He has not done that and now he is speaking out against this type of therapy.” The Pan American Health Organization, a division of the World Health Organization, said earlier this month that therapy claiming to “cure” people with non-heterosexual sexual orientation lacked medical justification and represented “a serious threat to the health and well-being of affected people.” Equality California, a civil rights group that co-sponsored the bill, welcomed its passage by the Senate.
ners in countries where same-sex marriage is legal, but it goes by federal law in the U.S., which only recognizes opposite-sex spouses. Outside the meeting, protesters lined the street in front of the Meyerson Symphony Center Hotel, where the shareholders’ meeting was held. About 50 people with organizations including the United Steel Workers (USW) union, Code Pink, and Occupy Dallas joined GetEQUAL protesters to shout for equality and ending discrimination. The USW represents hourly workers at a number of ExxonMobil refineries. Their issues with the company include worker safety as well as inclusive nondiscrimination policies. Daniel Cates, North Texas regional coordinator for GetEQUAL, who helped organized the protest, said he wouldn’t be surprised by the vote regardless of the result. “The people who are against it seem very against it. The people who are for it really did a good job of pushing it this year,” he said. “We’ve got a better shot than in the past.” Cates added that ExxonMobil had not
learned to change and be more inclusive, which would ultimately hurt the company in the marketplace. “They’re clinging to antiquated business practices,” he said. “It’s a matter of really learning that [nondiscrimination] is good for business.” A statement from ExxonMobil management called the proposed resolution unnecessary. The company is a “meritocracy” for its 82,000 workers worldwide, it claimed, and already prohibits all forms of discrimination. For the first time since 1999, ExxonMobil management appealed to the Securities and Exchange Commission to throw out the shareholder resolution prior to the vote. The company based its argument on a nondiscrimination statement in its “Corporate Careers” brochure. The SEC refused to allow ExxonMobil to pre-empt a vote on the proposal, saying the brochure does not have the formal weight of a corporate nondiscrimination policy. ExxonMobil has earned the only negative rating on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index, with a score of minus-25.
ExxonMobil shareholders reject LGBT employment protections courtesy dallas voice
Protestors outside the ExxonMobil shareholders meeting in Dallas
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Petrochemical behemoth ExxonMobil has refused once again to include LGBT employees in its corporate nondiscrimination policy. The decision came at the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting in Dallas on May 23. ExxonMobil is currently number one on the Fortune 500 list of the largest U.S. corporations. Some 80% of the company’s total shares voted against a resolution to amend its written equal-employment opportunity policy to “explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and to substantially implement the policy.” Mobil Oil was one of the first companies in the world to include sexual orientation in
its nondiscrimination policy and offer benefits to the same-sex partners of Gay and Lesbian employees. Those policies were rescinded in 1999 when Mobil merged with Exxon. Since then, a proposal to reinstate the pro-LGBT policies has been offered at every shareholders’ meeting, but without success. This year, the resolution was introduced by New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, who controls his state’s pension funds. As of May 18, New York’s pension fund held more than 16 million shares of ExxonMobil, worth more than $1 billion. DiNapoli proposed that ExxonMobil not only amend its nondiscrimination policy, but also that it begin offering health benefits to the same-sex spouses of employees married in New York. ExxonMobil management says the company offers health benefits to same-sex part-
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by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer The European Parliament has passed a resolution condemning anti-Gay laws and calling on EU member states to be “exemplary in the application and protection of fundamental rights in Europe.” The measure passed on May 22, by a margin of 430-105. It was widely seen as the EU’s response to the violent crackdown on Pride events in several Eastern European countries. The European parliament of 750 members is directly elected by voters in the EU member states. The EU is “gravely concerned by developments which restrict freedom of expression and assembly on the basis of misconceptions about homosexuality and Transgenderism,” the resolution said. The resolution specifically named Russia, Moldova, Latvia, Lithuania, and Ukraine, calling on them to “demonstrate, and ensure respect for, the principle of non-discrimination.” Latvia and Lithuania are EU members, while Russia, Moldova, and Ukraine are not. However, the resolution notes that antiGay laws violate international treaties to which those countries are parties. Anti-Gay laws are “inconsistent with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which precludes discriminatory laws and practices based on sexual orienta-
tion, and to which Russia, Ukraine … and all EU Member States are parties,” the resolution says. It also calls on the Council of Europe – which does include Russia, Moldova, and Ukraine – to “investigate these human rights violations, verify their compatibility with the commitments linked to Council of Europe membership and the European Convention on Human Rights.” The LGBT Intergroup, a caucus of LGBT European parliament members, pushed for the resolution. “Homophobia, Lesbophobia, and Transphobia are still a cruel reality for too many in Europe,” said Intergroup co-president Michael Cashman. “We must take action now: the Anti-Discrimination Directive, the Framework Decision on hate crimes, the recognition of civil status documents and their effects … these are tangible measures we can take within the next two years.” “Such huge support from across political groups shows that homophobes are losing their ground in Europe,” said the Intergroup’s other co-president, Ulrike Lunacek. “Politicians in Lithuania, Latvia, Hungary, Russia, Ukraine, and Moldova should take note: all political families in Europe find it unacceptable to limit freedom of expression as they do. We will not rest until these laws are repealed, and LGBT people in these countries can live without fear.”
allout.org
Euro parliament condemns anti-Gay laws
Still from video by allout.org condemning anti-Gay laws in St. Petersburg, Russia
Among the areas of concern cited by the European Parliament were the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” laws enacted in parts of Russia, and being considered in Ukraine and Latvia. The vice-president of the LGBT Intergroup in the European Parliament, Dennis de Jong, said the bans on publicly supporting LGBT rights were a clear breach of universally agreed human rights. “The Commission and the External Action Service must take note of these bans and condemn them without hesitation,” he
said. “We will work to ensure free speech remains a reality everywhere in Europe, including for LGBT people.” The European Parliament also specifically condemned “the violence and threats surrounding the Kiev Pride event,” where police intervened to cancel a planned Pride march but did not protect march organizers from anti-Gay thugs. The resolution also called on Ukraine to introduce legislation to prohibit discrimination, including discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation.
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer The provincial government of Ontario has ordered all schools in the province – including Catholic schools – to allow their students to form Gay-Straight Alliances and to call them by that name. Ontario’s Catholic bishops, who had resisted allowing the clubs, cried foul, charging that the government had blindsided them. The May 25 order is a major change in the provincial government’s new anti-bullying bill, the Accepting Schools Act. After the announcement, Ontario Education Minister Laurel Broten said there could be no compromises. “Schools need to be safe places for kids to be themselves – and for some kids, that means being able to name a club a GayStraight Alliance,” she said. “I don’t think there’s anything radical about allowing students to name a club.” Broten said she decided not to pursue a compromise with the Catholic Church after
hearing from students who said they don’t want school authorities dictating the names of their clubs. “We know that words matter. The message that we’re giving to Ontario students today is you will be listened to, it’s your club,” Broten told reporters. “[Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty] and I were both very clear that it was not for us at Queen’s Park to tell them what the name of their club should be, but neither should it be for someone else sitting in some other office in the province to tell them what the name of their club can’t be.” Because Ontario, unlike other Canadian provinces, funds religious schools, those schools were included in the government’s order. Church authorities said they had been trying to negotiate a compromise whereby Catholic schools could prohibit the use of the word “Gay” in student club names. They also wanted to be able to ban clubs whose primary focus was sexual orientation. The Catholic Church catechism teaches that LGBT people “must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided.” Being Gay or Lesbian, however, is said to be “intrinsically disordered,” and “under no circumstance can it be approved.” Consequently, Catholic bishops had proposed creating “Respecting Differences Clubs” instead of Gay-Straight Alliances. Supporters of the new regulations said that allowing a school principal to rule out the name “Gay-Straight Alliance” is in itself a form of oppression that is inappropriate under the Accepting Schools Act.
courtesy salt + light
Ontario government orders schools to accept GSAs
Toronto Cardinal Thomas Collins
Broten said using the word “Gay” is a necessary part of combating homophobia. “If we can’t name it, we can’t address it – and we must address it,” she said. Toronto Cardinal Thomas Collins said the church was taken aback by the government’s announcement because they believed negotiations on compromise names for the school groups were going forward. “Why is a piece of provincial legislation being used to micromanage the naming of student clubs?” he asked. “We all are committed to obeying the law, but we can question whether the law is wise, whether the law is just, or whether a law is a kind of intrusion or limiting of religious
freedom.” The cardinal issued a public letter on May 25 denouncing the government plan. “As pastor of a large diocese, on the road constantly visiting the people, I have again and again heard concern from parents and educators about the proposed imposition of the GSA methodology on Catholic schools,” he said. “That same concern has been expressed to me by people of other faiths, since parents often choose to send a child to a Catholic high school precisely because they expect a particular approach to life which is largely in harmony with their family and faith convictions.”
Rich Full-Bodied Cafes Savory Homestyle Soups & Sandwiches 8
Seattle Gay News
June 1, 2012
Celebrating 39 Years!
NORTHWEST
NEWS
compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer
BORN THIS WAY KAFE FOR URBAN QUEER TEENS AT CAL ANDERSON PARK On Fridays, 5-9 p.m., at Cal Anderson Shelterhouse (1635 11th Ave., one block north of E. Pine St.), Seattle Parks & Recreation hosts Born This Way Kafe, a welcoming place where LGBTQ youth, friends and allies (ages 13-19) can gather, be themselves, and have fun. Meets every Friday. For more info and to help make it happen, contact Randy at Seattle Parks, 206-8836110 txt/phone, email randy.wiger@seattle. gov or Google “SeattleParksCOD.” SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL MAY 17-JUNE 10 www.siff.net
curator, David Ward. The exhibit will include special events and guest lectures. For more information on the exhibit and special events, call 253-272-4258 or visit www.tacomaartmuseum.org. The museum is open Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed Monday and Tuesday). On the third Thursday of each month, the museum is open until 8 p.m., with free admission form 5-8 p.m. Admission: $10-adults, $8-students, military, seniors 65+, $25 family rate (2 adults and up to four children under 18), children 5 & under free. The museum is accessible by Sound Transit bus routes #594 and #586.
SEATTLE FRONTRUNNERS RUN/WALK WITH PRIDE UNDERWEAR FASHION SHOW On Saturday, June 2, 9 p.m.-11 p.m. at R JOFFREY: Place (619 E. Pine St.), Seattle FrontRunMAVERICKS OF AMERICAN DANCE ners presents their 3rd annual Run/Walk AT NORTHWEST FILM FORUM with Pride Underwear Fashion Show. www. Northwest Film Forum (1515 12th Ave.) seattlefrontrunners.org. presents the new feature length documentary, Joffrey: Mavericks of American Dance, “BEGLITCHED” from Friday, June 1-Thursday, June 7, at 7 WEDDING SHOWCASE p.m. and 9 p.m. The 2012 film chronicles On Sunday, June 3, from noon-2 p.m., the legendary Joffrey Ballet, founded by Se- at Lobby Bar (916 E. Pike St.), enjoy “Beattle native Robert Joffrey, from its humble GLiTched,” a wedding showcase in support beginnings touring the country in a bor- of Washington United for Marriage. Be Gay. rowed station wagon to becoming one of the Be glamorous. Get hitched. Fabulous food. world’s most exciting and prominent ballet Delicious drinks. Fierce fashions. www. companies. Narrated by Tony and Emmy shindigevents.org/beglitched. award winner Mandy Patinkin, the documentary takes a look at this groundbreaking PRIDE IDOL 2012 American cultural treasure. Joffrey: MaverOn Sundays through June 10, doors at icks of American Dance is the first film to 6 p.m. (with open community karaoke), tell the story of how the Joffrey Ballet revo- contest at 8 p.m., at Neighbours Nightclub lutionized American ballet by daringly com- (1509 Broadway), join Seattle Out & Proud bining modern dance with traditional ballet and your hostess Gaysha Starr for Pride Idol at a time when it was not routinely accepted. 2012, Seattle’s annual LGBT Pride karaoke The Company broke other barriers, too, by contest – weekly $100 cash prize; $1000 accepting and cultivating a diverse group of grand prize. June 3 is the Wild Card fitalented dancers regardless of race and body nal where first runners-up compete for two type, by resurrecting nearly lost early 20th spots in the June 10 Grand Finale competiCentury masterpieces, and by commission- tion. No cover charge to watch. www.seating daring new works by cutting edge cho- tlepride.org. reographers. Tickets: $10. GSBA PRIME TIME EAST SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL On Tuesday, June 5, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., DANCE FESTIVAL – at Haystack Antiques (140 105th Ave. NE, “BEYOND THE THRESHOLD” Bellevue), join Eastside GSBA members JUNE 1-10 and guests for good company, delectable apwww.seattleidf.org petizers and a plethora of carefully selected antiques. This event is FREE. RSVP to 206“UNDER THE RAINBOW” – 363-9188 or www.thegsba.org. IMAGES BY AND ABOUT GAY MEN AND WOMEN UW Q CENTER’S 11TH ANNUAL JUNE 2 LAVENDER GRADUATION Saturday, June 2, is the final day of an On Tuesday, June 5, from 6-8 p.m., at exhibit of works of art by noted Gay and the UW Tower 2nd Floor Cafeteria (4333 Lesbian artists curated by four Seattle gal- Brooklyn Ave. NE), the University of Washlery owners. Gail Gibson, James Harris, ington’s Q Center hosts the UW’s 11th anGreg Kucera and Stephen Lyons have co- nual Lavender Graduation ceremony, This operatively produced this exhibition curated annual event honors the achievements of from their own personal collections, gallery LGBT undergraduate and graduate students inventories, and the private collections of receiving their Bachelors, Masters, and their clients. The exhibit is being shown at Ph.D. degrees. the Greg Kucera Gallery (212 Third Ave. S.) from 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. SEATTLE GAY & LESBIAN BOOK CLUB – TACOMA ART MUSEUM – THE SWIMMING-POOL LIBRARY “HIDE/SEEK: DIFFERENCE The Seattle Gay & Lesbian Book Club AND DESIRE IN meets every Wednesday, at 6 p.m., at Seattle AMERICAN PORTRAITURE” Area Support Groups Community Center THROUGH JUNE 10 (303 17th Ave. E. at E. Thomas St.). The Tacoma Art Museum (1701 Pacific June selection is The Swimming-Pool LiAve., Tacoma) presents the groundbreaking brary by Alan Hollinghurst. exhibit, “Hide/Seek: Difference and Desire All GLBTQ folks are welcome to particiin American Portraiture,” that debuted at pate in this free book club. For more inforthe Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery mation email nickdimartin@earthlink.net, in 2010 and is the first major exhibition to visit http://faculty.washington.edu/swittet/ address the question of how gender iden- SGLBookClub/ or contact SASG at 206tity and sexual orientation have shaped the 322-2437; www.sasgcc.org. For discount on creation of modern American portraiture. cost of books, email Nick. “Hide/Seek” offers an unprecedented survey of nearly 150 years of American art and BARTENDER AUCTION includes more than 100 works by masters, AT PURR including Thomas Eakins, John Singer SarTO BENEFIT RISE N’ SHINE gent, Georgia O’Keefe, Andy Warhol, JasOn Wednesday, June 6, bidding begins per Johns and more. at 8 p.m., Purr Cocktail Lounge (1518 11th The exhibit was co-curated by noted Gay Ave.) presents their 5th Annual Bartender historian, Jonathan Katz, and Smithsonian Auction to benefit Rise N’ Shine with guest
Visit us online www.sgn.org
host Glamazonia. Bid on a date with your $10 advance (recommended) and $15 at the favorite bartender and support the programs door (if available). www.sistahsinema.com. of Rise N’ Shine. www.risenshine.org. “GAY PARIS” – RAINBOW CITY BAND DIVERSE HARMONY – GALA FUNDRAISER “HUMAN NATURE” On Sunday, June 10, from 10:30 a.m.On Friday and Saturday, June 8 and 9, at 7:30 p.m., at the Langston Hughes Per- 2 p.m., at Renaissance Seattle Hotel (515 forming Arts Center (104 17th Ave. S.), Madison St.), help support Rainbow City Diverse Harmony, Seattle’s LGBT Youth Band and enjoy a wonderful brunch, silent Chorus, celebrates their 10th anniversary art auction and exciting live auction, sigand the beautiful surroundings of the Pa- nature brunch cocktails, and a compliment cific Northwest with a concert dedicated of musical entertainment from many of to nature and the many experiences that we Rainbow City Band’s ensembles, includall have with our surroundings. “Human ing the orchestra and swing band. TickNature” celebrates the awe and inspiring ets: $65. www.brownpapertickets.com/ elements that allow us to interpret our own event/239544. Please RSVP by June 5. emotional experiences. “From your own CALL FOR ART – ‘Corner of the Sky,’ we hope you can see “PORTRAITS OF PRIDE 2012” past the ‘Fire and Rain’ and enjoy our ‘MoJUNE 23-JULY 22 ments in the Woods.’ Tickets: $12-advance, What does our creative community look $15-at the door; FREE for youth ages 22 and younger. www.brownpapertickets.com/ like? How do you see yourself when you close your eyes? From June 23-July 22, event/247045 www.diverseharmony.org Gay City (517 E. Pike St., at Belmont) hosts “Portraits of Pride 2012” and you are invit“FAUX REAL” ed to be a part of it. AT RE-BAR Whether you prefer to express yourself in On Friday, June 8, door at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m., Re-bar (1114 Howell St) presents photographic detail or to abstract your per“Faux Real” with Monique Jekinson (aka sonality in visual form, this show will bring Fauxnique). Tickets: $15-advance, $20 at together the many faces of the LGBTQ the door. 21+ with ID. www.brownpaper- community in celebration of LGBTQ Pride! Pacific Northwest LGBTQ artists (18 tickets.com. years of age and older) are invited to submit self-portraits to be included in this upcomCAPITOL HILL GARAGE SALE The third annual Capitol Hill Garage ing exhibit. All forms of art are welcome. If you are interested in participating in the Sale will be held on Saturday, June 9, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Capitol Hill residents are in- show, please send the following items as atvited to clean out their closets and turn their tachments to codyblomberg@gmail.com: Bio or artist statement, including phone rummage into someone else’s treasure. You can add your sale information or register for number, email and mailing address; 1 to 3 a community lot spot at capitolhillgarag- jpeg images of the work to be included in the exhibition, with title and dimensions; esale.com. if the work is not yet complete, please send images of past work and a timeline for comSEATTLE CENTER FESTAL – pletion. PAGDIRIWANG Deadline for emailed application is PHILIPPINE FESTIVAL On Saturday, June 9, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday, June 10. Deadline for art delivery and Sunday, June 10, from noon-5 p.m., at is Wednesday, June 20. If a work is purchased during the show, Seattle Center’s Center House and the Mural Amphitheatre, the Filipino Cultural Her- Gay City requests a 30% commission donaitage Society of Washington presents their tion in support of their Project BuildOUT. Gay City will host a “Portraits of Pride annual Pagdiriwang Philippine Festival. Explore and experience the cultural roots and 2012” Artists’ Reception as part of their contemporary influences of the Philippines larger Project BuildOUT Open(ing) House through live performances, arts, hands-on Brunch on Saturday, June 23, from 11 a.m.activities, martial arts, foods, games, and 2 p.m. Gay City is in the midst of Project Builda lively marketplace. This year’s festival showcases the culture’s advancements in OUT, creating a new 8,500 sq ft home to be technology, while looking back in time with occupied this coming June. This new space a re-creation of Philippine participation at will embody the growth that Gay City has the 1962 Fair. The Philippine Government experienced in recent years, growth that is Pavilion won first prize in exhibits in 1962. also reflected in their newly revised misThe world famous Bayanihan Dance Com- sion to “promote wellness in LGBT company that performed at the World’s Fair will munities by providing health services, conhave a come-back performance at Pagdiri- necting people to resources, fostering arts wang. Artifacts from the three regions of and building community.” Gay City’s new the Philippines from Luzon, Visayas and space will include a 750 sq ft multi-purpose Mindanao will be displayed and the Philip- performance space that will provide an orpine Department of Tourism will showcase ganizing center for LGBT artists and Queer the wonders and tourist attractions of the Arts in Seattle. This new space will expoPhilippines. The Philippine Department of nentially increase Gay City’s capacity for Trade and Industry will highlight the latest collaborating with LGBT artists. “Portraits technology on electronics, energy and IT. of Pride 2012” will be the first installation in the new arts space.” www.fchsw-pagdiriwang.org. GET ENGAGED! TO DEFEND MARRIAGE EQUALITY On Saturday, June 9, at 6 p.m., at the Washington State Trade & Convention Center (800 Convention Place), Washington United for Marriage and Equal Rights Washington host a gala fundraising dinner to galvanize support for the Approve Ref. 74 campaign. Tickets: $174 individual; $1740 table. RSVP to nicole@washingtonunited. org. www.washingtonunitedformarriage. org/gala. SISTAH SINEMA CELEBRATES THE LIFE AND WORK OF AUDRE LORDE Sistah Sinema presents a two-part series honoring and celebrating the life and work of Audre Lorde with the screening of Litany for Survival: The Life and Work of Audre Lorde on Saturday, June 9, and Audre Lorde – The Berlin Years 1984 to 1992 on Saturday, July 7. Doors at 8 p.m., shows at 9 p.m., at Chao Bistro (1200 E. Pike St.). Tickets
June 1, 2012
GENDER ODYSSEY 2012 CONFERENCE ART SHOW CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS – GENDER ODYSSEY 2012 CONFERENCE ART SHOW The Gender Odyssey conference art show is seeking works of art for their summer conference art show. Last year’s art exhibit included drawings, mixed media painting, photography, wood carving, textiles and video by artists from around the U.S. The conference will be held August 2-5. Gender Odyssey, held at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center (800 Pike St.), is an international conference focused on the needs and interests of Transgender and gender non-conforming people. Packed with thought-provoking workshops, discussion groups, social events and entertainment, this one-of-a-kind annual gathering attracts people from all over the world for an uplifting weekend of skill sharing and community. For more information, visit www.genderodyssey.org. Deadline for art show submission is Saturday, June 30.
Seattle Gay News
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Broadway
Farmers Market 10 Seattle Gay News
June 1, 2012
Broadway & E. Pine at Seattle Central Community College Sundays, 11am - 3pm, April 22 - Dec 23. Celebrating 39 Years!
PRIDE EVENTS
CALENDAR
PORTRAITURE EXHIBIT @ TAM Now showing at Tacoma Art Museum through June 10, Hide/Seek: Difference and Desire in American Portraiture is the first major exhibit to address how gender identity and sexual orientation have shaped the creation of modern American portraiture. The exhibit includes more than 100 works spanning nearly 150 years. On June 2 at 2 p.m., co-curator and National Portrait Gallery historian David Ward will provide an in-depth look into the art ($15 charge for this event). Tacoma Art Museum is located at 1701 Pacific Ave., and is open Wed.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www.tacomaartmuseum.org.
DIVERSE HARMONY: HUMAN NATURE On Friday, June 8, and Saturday, June 9, celebrate the beauty of the Pacific Northwest with Diverse Harmony, a Seattle-area Gay/straight ally youth vocal ensemble celebrating its 10th year. “Human Nature” takes place at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center (104 17th Ave. S.), beginning at
$174, or $1,740 to reserve a table for 10. E- family-friendly fun, and a kids’ art table. All mail nicole@washingtonunited.org for res- are welcome. ervations. For more information, visit www. washingtonunitedformarriage.org/gala. CAPITAL CITY PRIDE On Saturday and Sunday, June 9-10, celebrate community and defend equality at Olympia’s annual pride event. Capital City Pride takes place in Sylvester Park (Capitol Way S. and Legion Way S.W.) with entertainment from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Featured performers include Brian Kent, Kim Archer, and Saul Tannenbaum. The parade steps off Sunday at noon. For more information visit www. capitalcitypride.net.
ARTISTS’ CALL: PORTRAITS OF PRIDE Sunday, June 10, is the deadline to apply for inclusion in the Portraits of Pride 2012 art exhibit. What does our creative community look like? How do you see yourself when you close your eyes? Portraits of Pride 2012 is an opportunity to introduce yourself to the world through your choice of artistic medium. To apply, send your bio or artist statement (including phone number, e-mail, and mailing address) along with one to three images (jpeg format) of your work, giving title and dimensions of each, to codyblomberg@gmail.com. Applicants must be 18 or older. The deadline for art delivery is Wednesday, June 20. If a work is purchased during the show, Gay City requests a 30% commission donation to benefit Project BuildOUT. The exhibit will run from June 23 to July 22 (see below).
DYKE MARCH FUNDRAISER On Saturday, June 2, Neighbours Nightclub (1509 Broadway) hosts a benefit for the 2012 Dyke March (June 23, see below) from 6 to 10 p.m. There will be dancing and prizes including Cupcake Royale gift certificates, Rat City Rollergirls gift bags, Sinner Saint Burlesque tickets, and more. Information at www.facebook.com/SeattleDykeMarch. UNDERWEAR FASHION SHOW On Saturday, June 2, Seattle FrontRunners presents its 3rd annual Underwear Fashion Show at R Place (619 E. Pine St.), from 9 to 11 p.m. Beneficiaries include GLSEN and the It Gets Better Project. Seattle FrontRunners is a running and walking club for Gay men, Lesbians, and friends. Information is available at www.seattlefrontrunners.org. PRIDE IDOL WILDCARD ROUND Just one more night to catch Pride Idol before the Grand Finale! On Sunday, June 3, the runner-ups from previous weeks will compete in the Wildcard Round at Neighbours Nightclub (1509 Broadway), with one singer advancing to next week’s finals (June 8 p.m. Tickets are available at http://www. 10, see below). This year’s judges are Shaun brownpapertickets.com/event/247045 and Knittel of SGN, Sister Domine Trix of the at the door. (Free for ages 21 and under.) Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and actress Kitty Kitty Bang Bang. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the contest starts at 8. The Grand Finale winner receives a $1,000 cash prize and a chance to perform aboard the SO&P float in this year’s Pride Parade, June 24. WEDDING SHOWCASE On Sunday, June 3, the Lobby Bar (916 E. Pike St.) hosts “BeGLiTched,” a wedding fashion showcase benefitting Washington United for Marriage, from noon to 2 p.m. Fabulous food, delicious drinks, and fierce fashions. Information at www.shindigevents.org/beglitched. LAVENDER GRADUATION On Tuesday, June 5, the Q Center at the University of Washington invites you to its 11th annual Lavender Graduation in the 2nd floor cafeteria at the UW Tower (4333 Brooklyn Ave. N.E.). The ceremony stars at 6 p.m. and honors LGBT graduating students of the UW. For more information visit the Q Center’s website at http://uwqcenter. wordpress.com/events.
Visit us online www.sgn.org
PRIDE IDOL GRAND FINALE On Sunday, June 10, be an eyewitness to history at Neighbours Nightclub (1509 Broadway), when this year’s Pride Idol is crowned. Judges Shaun Knittel, Sister Domine Trix, and Kitty Kitty Bang Bang will choose 2012’s Idol from among all the winners of this spring’s series of Pride Idol singing contests. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the contest starts at 8. The Grand Finale winner receives a $1,000 cash prize and a chance to perform aboard the SO&P float in this year’s Pride Parade, June 24.
POZ SEATTLE PRIDE SOCIAL On Wednesday, June 13, from 6 to 8 p.m., join POZ Seattle at The Cuff Complex (13th Ave. and E. Pine St.) for their annual Pride Social. Meet on the back patio for BBQ, socializing, catching up with old friends, making new ones, and a whole lot of fun. This event is free (except for the cost of beverages) and is for all HIV-Positive men and their friends, regardless of age, shape, size, or color. Information at www.pozseattle.org. SPOKANE PRIDE On Saturday, June 9, begin your month of Pride celebrations with a trip to Spokane, where the 2012 Pride theme is “Stand Up! Speak Out! Spark Change!” The parade steps off at noon on Wall Street at Main Street downtown and is followed by the Rainbow Festival at Gondola Meadows in the southwest corner of Riverfront Park. Details at www.outspokane.com.
RAINBOW CITY BAND FUNDRAISER On Sunday, June 10, it’s Gay Paris at the Renaissance Seattle hotel, and you’re invited! This year’s benefit for the RCB includes a brunch with cocktails, a sidewalk art auction, live music, and other entertainment. The Rainbow City Band steps out for its 15th season this summer, performing in the Seattle, Bellingham, and Vancouver, B.C., Pride parades as well as numerous street fairs and holiday celebrations. Information and tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com/ GET ENGAGED! On Saturday, June 9, Washington United event/239544. for Marriage and Equal Rights Washington SOUTH PARK PRIDE PICNIC invite you to Get Engaged to Defend MarOn Sunday, June 10, come to the 2nd anriage Equality! The sixth annual gala fundraiser takes place at the Washington State nual South Park Neighborhood Gay Pride Trade and Convention Center (800 Pike Picnic. This free event takes place at DuSt.), starting at 6 p.m., and benefits the Ap- wamish Waterway Park (7900 10th Ave. S.), prove Referendum 74 campaign. Tickets are from 1 to 4 p.m. and features food, music,
June 1, 2012
UNICORNS VS. UNIFORMS PRIDE LAUNCH PARTY On Thursday, June 14, from 7 to 10 p.m. The Producers Collective presents Pride Launch Party: Unicorns vs. Uniforms at Neighbours Nightclub (1509 Broadway) featuring performances by Ruby Rouge, Luscious LadyPop, Max Pride, Violet deVille and more!!! With emcee: Toby Noon. Tickets: $20 or $15 with donation of a bath towel. With the Unicorn Men and Seattle Girls of Leather. PORTLAND PRIDE FESTIVAL AND PARADE From Friday, June 15, to Sunday, June 17, Portland is Pride Central in the Northwest. This year’s parade begins at 11:30 a.m., Sunday, June 17, at Park Avenue and Burnside Street downtown. Marchers will proceed along Davis Street through historic Old Town/Chinatown to Naito Parkway along the Willamette River, and then head down Naito to Waterfront Park, where the three-day festival takes place. Main-stage performers include Colton Ford, Kim English, Bobby Jo Valentine, DJs Tony Moran and Nina Sky, and the Portland Lesbian and Gay Men’s Choruses. Details at http:// pridenw.org. see pride calendar page 16
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Celebrating 39 Years!
e t o v o t RegisteR
www.myvote.wa.gov
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Celebrating 39 Years!
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PRIDE SHABBAT On Friday, June 22, join the Seattle Jewish community for Pride Shabbat 2012! This annual event is open to the entire community and is a celebration of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and questioning Jews, friends, allies, and families. It takes place at Temple De Hirsch Sinai (1511 E. Pike St.), starting with pre-service appetizers at 5:30 p.m. A light dinner and desserts will be served after the service. This event is ASLinterpreted. For more information, e-mail joshf@hilleluw.org.
pride calendar continued from page 11
SEATTLE EROTIC ART FESTIVAL From Saturday, June 16, to Sunday, June 24, Fremont Studios (155 N. 35th St.) hosts the 10th annual Seattle Erotic Art Festival. This year’s event includes many Pride and LGBTQ-focused offerings, including performances by Tigger! and Waxie Moon; Queer Pride: Best of the Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival; a Pride Party; HomoPhoto Art: A 60-Year rEvolution, celebrating the history of Gay erotic art; and a series of Pride Art Tours hosted by local LGBTQ artists and collectors. Festival organizers say about half of each year’s attendees identify as LGBTQ. More informathe chorus fine-tune its songs and staging tion at www.seattleerotic.org. for its Pride weekend show (June 22-23, see below). The preview will be held at the SEATTLE PRIDE PICNIC On Saturday, June 16, come out and IKEA Performing Arts Center in Renton declare with pride, “We Are Family” at (400 S. 2nd St.) starting at 8 p.m. Tickets are SO&P’s annual Pride Picnic, catered by just $10 and can be purchased at the box ofSpud.com. A buffet featuring hamburgers, fice or by calling (206) 388-1400. veggie burgers, hot dogs, fresh fruit, salRUN AND WALK WITH PRIDE ads, and beverages will be offered for just On Sunday, June 17, Seattle FrontRun$1 per person from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Volunteer Park (14th Ave. E. and E. Galer St.). ners holds its annual Run and Walk With Information at SO&P’s website, www.seat- Pride fundraiser. This year’s event benefits the It Gets Better Project and takes place at tlepride.org/official-events.html. Seward Park (5895 Lake Washington Blvd. S.) beginning at 10 a.m. There is an entry SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS fee of $25 for adults, $15 for youth/students. PREVIEW PERFORMANCE On Saturday, June 16, the Seattle Men’s Participants choose between a 10k run, a Chorus presents a Friends and Family Pre- 4k run, and a 4k walk, and can register inview, at which audiences can see and hear dividually or as a team. All finishers will be
eligible for fabulous raffle prizes! Register or donate online at http://www.active.com/ running/seattle-wa/run-and-walk-withpride-2012. Registration closes June 15. MR., MS., & MISS SEATTLE PRIDE PAGEANT On Sunday, June 17, Seattle Out & Proud partners with Neighbours Nightclub (1509 Broadway) for the annual Mr., Ms., & Miss Seattle Pride 2012 pageant, hosted by the glorious Gaysha Starr. Contestants will be judged in the categories of Pride Look, Talent, Formal Wear, and a Q&A. Winners will be featured on the SO&P float in the Pride Parade. To apply for the competition, visit www.seattlepride.org ($15 entry fee). Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7. www. brownpapertickets.com/event/249979.
SING OUT! WITH SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS On Friday, June 22, and Saturday, June 23, the Seattle Men’s Chorus presents “Sing Out!,” a concert of songs chosen by SMC subscribers and ticket buyers in an online vote. The program also features a “Chorus Idol” talent show, featuring the winners of several Seattle-area singing competitions. Curtain time both evenings is 8 p.m. at McCaw Hall (321 Mercer St.). Tickets at https://tickets.flyinghouse.org/public/ or (206) 388-1400. EMERALD CITY MCC CELEBRATES 40 YEARS On Friday, June 22, help Emerald City MCC Seattle celebrate 40 years of ministry to the LGBT Christian community. An anniversary banquet will be held at University Congregational Church (4515 16th Ave. N.E.) beginning at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30). Metropolitan Community Church founder Elder Troy Perry, will speak and greet attendees afterward. Tickets are available at www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/251887 or at MCC Seattle, 1415 N.E. 43rd St. ‘HEY TRANNY, IT’S TRANNY!’ On Friday, June 22, Nark magazine presents its 3rd annual Pride weekend event at Neumos (916 E. Pine St.), beginning at 8 p.m. Hosted by Ben DeLaCreme, the evening’s featured performers include RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Sharon Needles, SSION, Hi Fashion, and JD Samson. Proceeds benefit Gay City Health Project, and tickets are available at www.gaycity.org/pride/ or at Moe Bar.
SOUNDERS FC PRIDE FOUNDATION NIGHT On Wednesday, June 20, the Seattle Sounders celebrate Pride Foundation Night at CenturyLink Field, as they take on Sporting Kansas City beginning at 7 p.m. Last year’s event featured the premiere of the “It Gets Better” campaign video made by the Sounders in partnership with the Seattle Storm, Mariners, and Seahawks. Pride Foundation supporters will sit together in the North End Zone Hawks Nest and Section 214. For tickets, visit www.pridefoundation.org/events/event/seatte-wa-sounderfc-pride-foundation-night/ by June 7. Proceeds from this special ticket sale benefit the work of the Pride Foundation throughout the Northwest.
PRIDE WEEK BREAKFAST On Saturday, June 23, Dignity/Seattle (an LGBT-positive Catholic organization) hosts its 24th annual Pride Week Breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon at Central Lutheran Church (1710 11th Ave.). Proceeds benefit Rosehedge/Multifaith Works, Bailey-Boushay House, and Dignity/Seattle’s Convention Scholarship Fund. For more information, visit www.dignityseattle.org, or call (206) 659-5519. Dignity/Seattle will march with the Catholics for Marriage Equality contingent in the June 24 Pride Parade.
CAPITOL HILL PRIDE FESTIVAL On Saturday, June 23, celebrate Pride in Seattle’s premier Gayborhood at the 4th annual Capitol Hill Pride Festival on Broadway (between E. John St. and E. Roy St.) from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., featuring food, live music, and other entertainment on three stages, with performers including Marcel, Bryn King, Devolution Aries, and Bomo Cho. Returning this year is the popular Doggie Drag Costume Contest from noon to 1 p.m., benefiting the Seattle Humane SociQUEER TEEN ety’s Pet Project, which helps people with ENSEMBLE THEATRE AIDS care for their pets. The event website This year’s QTET performance runs from is http://www.seattlechatclub.org/CapitolThursday, June 21, to Monday, June 25, cur- HillPrideFestival.html. tain 7:30 p.m. QTET is a unique program giving voice and artistry to LGBTQ youth PORTRAITS OF PRIDE EXHIBIT in the Seattle area, produced with the supFrom Saturday, June 23, to Sunday, July port of Washington Ensemble Theatre. The 22, Gay City hosts Portraits of Pride 2012, group performs at the Little Theatre, 608 an art show that brings together the many 19th Ave. E. Details of this year’s show had faces of the LGBTQ community in celebranot been announced at press time. Informa- tion of local pride. The exhibit opens with tion will be posted to http://qtet.org as it be- an artists’ reception June 23, from 11 a.m. to comes available. 2 p.m. at Gay City (517 E. Pike St.). A portion of each purchase will benefit Gay City’s
16 Seattle Gay News
June 1, 2012
Celebrating 39 Years!
Project BuildOUT.
‘RED’ WOMEN’S PARTY AT THE BALTIC ROOM PRIDE ASIA On Saturday, June 23, join DJs Tina T, On Saturday, June 23, join host Aleksa Roy G. Biv, and Mr. Charming for Red, the Manila for the first annual Pride ASIA, annual women’s Pride Festival party at the a celebration of the Seattle area’s LGBT Baltic Room (1207 Pine St.) from 10 p.m. to Asian community, at Hing Hay Park in Se- 4 a.m. Pre-sale tickets are $20, or buy a VIP attle’s International District, from noon to 6 Pass for $40 that gets you VIP room access p.m. Co-sponsored by the Northwest Muse- plus backstage access to the DJ Stage during um of Legends and Lore, this event features Sunday’s PrideFest. The promoter is donatmusic, theater, and other entertainment cele- ing 20% of all sales/cover charges to Washbrating Asian/Pacific Islander diversity and ington United for Marriage. For tickets, visculture. For more information visit http:// it http://seattlepridefest.org/red/index.html. groups.google.com/group/PrideASIA. 2012 SEATTLE PRIDE PARADE: INTERFAITH WORSHIP SERVICE THE MANY FACES OF PRIDE On Saturday, June 23, all are welcome to On Sunday, June 24, there’s just no other attend the annual Pride Interfaith Commu- place to be than downtown Seattle for the nity Worship Service at All Pilgrims Church city’s annual Pride Parade, produced by Se(500 Broadway E.), beginning at 1 p.m. attle Out & Proud. This year’s parade theme Giving this year’s sermon will be the Rev. is “The Many Faces of Pride,” celebrating Elder Troy Perry, founder of the Universal the vast diversity of the Seattle area’s LesFellowship of Metropolitan Community bian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, and Churches (MCC). Founded in 1968, MCC allied community. The parade begins at 11 is the first denomination created specifically a.m. at 4th Avenue and Union Street and to minister to LGBT Christians who were proceeds north along 4th Avenue to Denny rejected by other churches. Way. Information is available at SO&P’s website, www.seattlepride.org/pride-paRAINBOW HEALTH FAIR rade.html. On Saturday, June 23, YMCA Women’s Health Outreach presents its 14th annual Rainbow Health Fair at Seattle Central Community College (1701 Broadway), from 1 to 5 p.m. Free health tests and services will be offered, including acupuncture, massage, energy healing, Zumba, HIV testing, cholesterol checks, naturopathic consultation, and mental health education. In addition, mammogram and pap tests will be offered at no charge to women 40 and over with limited income. To schedule a mammogram and pap test, call Marilyn Calbert at (206) 461-4489. SEATTLE DYKE MARCH On Saturday, June 23, the 2012 Seattle Dyke March kicks off with a rally from 5 to 7 p.m. at Seattle Central Community College Plaza (Broadway and E. Pine St.). The march begins at 7 p.m. and makes a loop around Capitol Hill. More information at www.seattledykemarch.com or www.facebook.com/SeattleDykeMarch.
SEATTLE PRIDEFEST 2012 On Sunday, June 24, don’t miss the biggest and best LGBTQ party in the Northwest! This year’s Seattle PrideFest features more than 100 music acts (including headliners Cazwell, Debby Holiday, DJ Phil B, Peppermint, and Vockah Redu & The Cru), along with hundreds of community groups and vendors. Seattle PrideFest takes place at Seattle Center from noon to 8 p.m., immediately following the Pride Parade. As always, admission is free! For more details, visit www.seattlepridefest.org.
HONORING AUDRE LORD On Saturday, July 7, Sistah Sinema presents two films celebrating the legacy of African-American Lesbian author and acTHE CHOCOLATE REVOLUTION tivist Audre Lord. Litany of Survival: The On Saturday, June 23, from 9 p.m. to 2 Life and Work of Audre Lord starts at 9 p.m., a.m., Nubian Pride Productions presents followed by Audre Lord: The Berlin Years, “The Chocolate Revolution” at Highline 1984 to 1992. Both films screen at Chao Bar (210 Broadway E.). Come celebrate Se- Bistro (1200 E. Pike St.). Tickets are $10 in attle Pride with some of the areas best Peo- advance at www.sistahsinema.com ($15 at ple of Color entertainers. With DJ T-Bone. door, if available). $10 suggested donation. 21+. Open to all People of Color and those who love us. BELLINGHAM PRIDE From Wednesday, July 11, to Sunday, July ‘RED’ MEN’S PARTY AT NEUMOS 15, B Proud hosts a series of Pride events On Saturday, June 23, join DJs Brian Gorr in Bellingham, including film screenings, of Seattle and Phil B of SF for Red, the an- parties, dances, a drag show, and more. The nual men’s Pride Festival party at Neumos parade begins at noon on July 15 at Belling(925 E. Pike St.) from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Pre- ham High School, ending at Depot Market sale tickets are $25, or buy a VIP Pass for Square. A Pride Festival will be held the $45 that gets you VIP room access plus a same day until 5 p.m. at Bellingham Farmbackstage meet-and-greet with Phil B at the ers Market. More information at www. DJ Stage during Sunday’s PrideFest. The bhampride.org. promoter is donating 20% of all sales/cover charges to Washington United for Marriage. TACOMA PRIDE FESTIVAL For tickets, visit http://seattlepridefest.org/ From Friday, July 13, to Saturday, July red/index.html. 21, celebrate nine whole days of Pride in Tacoma. The highlight is the annual Out in the
Visit us online www.sgn.org
Park event, Saturday, July 14, from noon to 6 p.m. on Broadway in the city’s historic downtown theater district. Other events include three days of LGBT films at the Grand Cinema and a staged reading of Lanford Wilson’s Fifth of July at the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts. Details are still being finalized. For more information visit www.rainbowctr.org. VANCOUVER (WA) SATURDAY IN THE PARK Saturday, July 14, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., is Vancouver, Washington’s 18th annual LGBT Pride event, Saturday in the Park. This year’s theme is “Gateway to Equality,” celebrating the passage of Washington’s marriage equality law. The family-friendly event takes place at Esther Short Park downtown and features music and cultural performances, community groups, games,
and other activities for all ages. The day will begin with “Lyle’s Miles,” a 5K run/walk fundraiser for the Cascade AIDS Project. Details at www.gayvancouverwa.org. KITSAP PRIDE IN BREMERTON On Sunday, July 22, Kitsap Pride holds its annual celebration at Evergreen Park in downtown Bremerton beginning at noon. This year’s theme is “Pride Links Us Together.” Details are still being finalized and will be posted at www.kitsappride.org. VANCOUVER (BC) PRIDE PARADE AND FESTIVAL This year’s Vancouver, BC, Pride Parade and Festival is scheduled for Sunday, August 5. Watch for more information in future issues of SGN, or visit www.vancouverpride.ca.
have stepped up to help or even make suggestions.” According to SO&P, “When the Marshals selection took place, a social media campaign brought in a number of names from which the board and parade committee picked. Unfortunately, SO&P cannot wait until June to select Marshals; there is planning involved in the process and publicity that needs to be done.” As of press time, Gov. Chris Gregoire has informed SO&P that she will not be able to attend the parade. Another point of contention among some community members is the fact that SO&P has not put a major focus on marriage equality. The annual Pride parade is the largest visible show of presence for the LGBT community. Yet SO&P officials have shied away from making it known that this year’s event is all about marriage equality. By way of contrast, One Degree Events, the organization responsible for the annual PrideFest at Seattle Center, has fully embraced the movement, saying on its website, “2012 is all about marriage equality in Washington State. Seattle PrideFest is ALL IN on making this, the civil rights battle of our generation, a reality. If you’re not working for marriage equality this year, then you’re letting history pass you by.” SO&P officials say that when it comes to politics, they don’t “lean in any particular direction.” “We allow the participants to choose which direction it goes because it is a ‘free speech march’ more than a political statement from our perspective,” said officials. It is important to note that SO&P officials have gifted Washington United for Marriage, the campaign working to keep our marriage equality law unscathed, a spot in front of the Parade among the key sponsors. Josh Friedes, marriage equality director for Equal Rights Washington and one of the parade grand marshals, told SGN, “The Pride Parade means so much to different people. For me pride will always be deeply rooted in the struggle for LGBT civil rights and social equality. So much is taken for granted today because, especially in Seattle, things are so good for LGBT people.
“I think one of the challenges for LGBT people is that we don’t pass down our history from generation to generation like Jews, African Americans, Latinos, or members of the API community. It’s shocking to many veterans of the LGBT civil rights movement that we don’t make it easy for elected leaders to march with their supporters displaying their signs. There was a time when seeing elected officials march in the parade was a hopeful sign that perhaps someday things would get better.” Part of things being so good in the Seattle area for LGBT people is that we do see political apathy, says Frides, and the current controversy may be more of a symptom of the success of the LGBT community than a problem with SO&P itself. “It’s easy to blame SO&P for not being political, but I think what the current controversy really speaks to is the need for more engagement by political people in the planning of the parade,” he said. “Perhaps SO&P will form a political subcommittee in the future to retain part of the original character and meaning of Pride parades.” Friedes says that although the parade is just a few weeks away, perhaps there is time to figure out a way to give elected leaders and candidates who support marriage equality an opportunity to be visible. “The Pride Parade will and should be an opportunity to thank local elected heroes like Senator Ed Murray and Representative Jamie Pedersen,” he said. “I think we need to put the controversy aside and focus on the important work that is ahead. I have always said the perfect is the enemy of the good. And I am confident that the Pride Parade will be an important opportunity to build support for the Approve 74 campaign and equality candidates like Jay Inslee for Governor.” “I hope SO&P will learn from this experience and make adjustments,” Friedes continued. “And it’s important that we support SO&P because it does take money to produce the parade, and the parade does play an important role in the political and civic life of the LGBT and allied communities.” The 38th annual Seattle Pride Parade is scheduled for Sunday, June 24, at 11 a.m., starting at 4th Avenue and Union Street in downtown Seattle. For more information visit SO&P’s official website, www.seattlepride.org.
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by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor On May 29, Mitt Romney won 105 delegates in the Texas primary and clinched the Republican nomination for president. The former Massachusetts governor now has 1,191 delegates, according to a count by the Associated Press, putting him above the 1,144 needed to win the nomination at the party’s national convention in August. Romney has won about two-thirds of the delegates at stake in primaries and caucuses since January. His closest rival, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum, has won 16 percent. Santorum suspended his campaign April 10. Romney will face Democratic President Barack Obama in the general election. Obama rebounded in Texas after getting low vote totals in recent Democratic primaries in West Virginia, Kentucky, and Arkansas. Next Tuesday, presidential primaries
will be held in California, New Jersey, New Mexico, Montana, and South Dakota. At stake are a total of 264 Republican delegates. President Obama recently won praise from the LGBT community when he publicly came out for marriage equality. Romney, however, has a rocky relationship with the community. Unlike the president, Romney’s view on same-sex marriage has not been evolving. On the campaign trail, Romney has consistently said that he does not favor marriage between two people of the same gender. In fact, Romney recently told a crowd of supporters in Oklahoma City, “My view is that marriage itself is between a man and a woman.” However, he said he believes that states should be able to make decisions about whether to offer certain legal rights to samesex couples. “This is a very tender and sensitive topic, as are many social issues, but I have the
Olivier Douliery/Abaca Press/MCT
Romney clinches GOP nomination for president
Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney
same view that I’ve had since – since running for office,” Romney said. He first ran for political office in 1994, when he unsuccessfully challenged Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.). He was elected governor of Massachusetts in 2002 and served one term. Recently, Romney has been bedeviled by reports that he engaged in anti-Gay bullying while attending prep school in 1965. An 18-year-old Mitt reportedly decided that a Gay classmate, John Lauber, should not
be walking around campus with bleachedblond hair. He led a group of boys into a room where they tackled Lauber, pinned him down, and as he cried, Romney clipped the boy’s hair with a pair of scissors. Romney also opposed repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” In December 2011, he told the Des Moines Register, “I was not comfortable making the change during a period of conflict, due to the complicating features of a new program in the middle of two wars going on.”
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor
apologizing for his crimes. But earlier this week, Ravi issued the following statement: “Last Monday, I was sentenced to 3 years’ probation, 300 hours of community service, a fine of more than $10,000, and 30 days in jail. Since the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office appealed that sentence, the sentence does not have to start until the appeal is decided. Nevertheless, I decided to accept and hopefully complete the sentence as soon as possible. It’s the only way I can go on with my life. I accept responsibility for and regret my thoughtless, insensitive, immature, stupid, and childish choices that I made on September 19, 2010, and September 21, 2010. My behavior and actions, which at no time were motivated by hate, bigotry, prejudice, or desire to hurt, humiliate, or embarrass anyone, were nonetheless the wrong choices and decisions. I apologize to everyone affected by those choices. I am surrendering myself to the Middlesex County Correctional Facility on Thursday, May 31, 2012, to start my 30-day period of imprisonment.”
Ravi apologizes to victim, begins serving jail time Dharun Ravi, the former Rutgers student convicted of using a webcam to spy on his roommate’s intimate encounter with another man, turned himself in Thursday to begin his 30-day jail sentence. Because prosecutors are appealing the sentence, Ravi did not have to begin serving the term. But Ravi’s lawyer, Steven Altman, says his client chose to begin serving now. According to the New Jersey Star-Ledger, Altman says Ravi wanted to “get it over with.” Ravi was convicted in March of invasion of privacy, bias intimidation, and other charges for using his webcam to watch roommate Tyler Clementi kissing a man. Clementi committed suicide days after the September 2010 incident. Middlesex County Judge Glenn Berman sentenced Ravi to 30 days in jail, plus fines, probation, and community service. Ravi was chastised by the judge for not
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June 1, 2012
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courtesy akilpatterson.com
The Outfield: Akil Patterson’s Project Giving African-American athletes the courage to come out by Dan Woog SGN Contributing Writer When University of Nebraska assistant football coach Ron Brown made anti-Gay comments recently – among other things, he threatened the Omaha City Council with eternal damnation if it passed a bill prohibiting businesses from firing workers because they’re Gay – many people were outraged. Akil Patterson was, too. But he understood better than many others where Brown was coming from. Patterson is a former Division I football player. Like Brown, he’s African-American. But Patterson’s life path has been very different. A Gay man, Patterson is dedicating his life to making sure that young athletes do not get bullied or harassed for any reason. Particularly for being Gay. Patterson began his collegiate football career at the University of Maryland. He “adored” the school. Yet he did not feel the same warmth toward the people he was around – primarily football players and coaches. “It was a dark period,” he recalls. “I was always on the defensive.” Deeply closeted – feeling estranged from other Gay men and women, and with no black Gay role models – he became a binge drinker. He transferred to California University of Pennsylvania, where he continued to party but earned a degree. He played briefly with the United Indoor Football League’s semi-pro Billings Outlaws in Montana. He’d already started to come to terms with himself, thanks to an eye-opening trip to Europe. Yet not until he returned to his real love – he’d been a state high-school wrestling champion – did he feel confident enough to come out, and truly begin to live. “I’ve made a lot of mistakes,” Patterson says. “That weighs heavily on your soul. I want to be at peace, be around people who uplift me.” He found that place, surprisingly, back in College Park, Maryland. Now an assis-
tant wrestling coach there, he’s surrounded by people – coaches and athletes – who understand and embrace him. They’re like a family to him. Around them, Patterson talks about his life and his relationships. It’s an openness he never felt before. That openness has enabled him to reach out to others through something he calls the Patterson Project. “It’s a mission of love,” he says. Through it – by blogging, speaking, and serving as a role model – Patterson educates anyone who will listen, from elementary school youth through college students, about the importance of being true to oneself. “The Patterson Project offers a different spin on the life of LGBT athletes, because it doesn’t just focus on sexuality,” he says. He emphasizes the mental, physical, social, and psychological aspects of living life with integrity. Patterson learned many of those skills while working in youth detention centers and courts. With his imposing size (he’s 6 feet, 3 inches) and athletic accomplishments (he’s still a highly ranked Greco-Roman grappler), Patterson has vowed to counter the destructive influences of people like Ron Brown. As a big, strong athlete, he knows he does not fit the stereotype of a Gay man. He could easily “pass” as a straight jock – he did so for years, all through college. But Patterson says that would not serve anyone well. Not him, and not young athletes who need role models. “It’s like years ago, during a previous era, when light-skinned black people could pass as white,” he explains. “But that wouldn’t achieve equality. If Gay people want to be equal, we have to show who we are. We’re coaches, teachers, lawyers, doctors. We’re people.” In his second stint at Maryland, he says, he’s now seen as “a person.” In part, that’s because 2012 is a different time than just 10 years ago. In part, it’s a reflection of the difference between the wrestling and football cultures.
Akil Patterson
Though wrestling demands mental and physical toughness, Patterson calls it a “humbling” sport. “You’re not going to make a million dollars” as a wrestler or coach, he says. Because they compete individually, Patterson says, wrestlers – like gymnasts and swimmers – must have incredible fortitude to succeed. Wrestling helped give him the confidence and fortitude to come out. But all Gay athletes, whether participating in an individual or team sport, must contend with something others don’t: the conflict between their identity as an athlete and as an LGBT person. Patterson walks the walk of an athlete. He talks the talk. He’s grown up in the black community, and understands the culture that allows Ron Brown to say it would be an “honor” to be fired for his stance.
That’s why it’s so important for Akil Patterson to speak not about religion or politics, but about humanity, whenever he talks about his life journey as a black Gay athlete. Or, simply, his life journey as a human being. Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, soccer coach, Gay activist, and author of the Jocks series of books on Gay male athletes. Visit his website at www.danwoog.com. He can be reached in care of this publication or at OutField@qsyndicate.com.
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June 1, 2012
Seattle Gay News 19
doma
continued from cover Gill v. OPM was filed by GLAD (Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders) on behalf of eight same-sex couples and three surviving partners living in Massachusetts who were denied federal benefits available to married spouses. “We’ve been working on this issue for so many years, and for the court to acknowledge that yes, same-sex couples are legally married, just as any other couple, is fantastic and extraordinary,” said GLAD executive director Lee Swislow. During oral arguments last month, the GLAD attorney said DOMA was motivated by anti-Gay bias and amounts to “acrossthe-board disrespect.” “For me, it’s more just about having equality and not having a system of firstand second-class marriages,” said plaintiff Jonathan Knight, who married Marlin Nabors in 2006.
Knight said DOMA costs the couple an extra $1,000 a year because they cannot file a joint federal tax return. “I think we can do better, as a country, than that,” Knight added. GLAD attorneys also argued that the power to define and regulate marriage had been left to the states for more than 200 years before Congress passed DOMA. Because President Obama and the U.S. Justice Department have concluded that DOMA is unconstitutional, they have declined to defend it in court. The constitutionality of the law was instead defended by Paul Clement, a Washington, D.C., attorney hired by the so-called Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group, set up by House Speaker John Boehner. Clement argued that Congress had a rational basis for passing DOMA in 1996, when state governments worried they would be forced to recognize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere. Congress wanted to preserve a traditional and uniform definition of marriage, Clement said, and has the power
to define terms used in federal statutes to distribute federal benefits. The 1st Circuit panel rejected Clement’s arguments. “If we are right in thinking that disparate impact on minority interests and federalism concerns both require somewhat more in this case than almost automatic deference to Congress’ will, this statute fails that test,” the court said in its opinion. The issue of states’ rights cuts both ways, the court added, and protects states that wish to legalize same-sex marriages just as much as those that want to ban them. “One virtue of federalism is that it permits this diversity of governance based on local choice, but this applies as well to the states that have chosen to legalize same-sex marriage,” Judge Michael Boudin wrote for the court. “Under current Supreme Court authority, Congress’ denial of federal benefits to samesex couples lawfully married in Massachusetts has not been adequately supported by any permissible federal interest.” “This is a strong opinion that affirms that DOMA is an outlier for two reasons: first, because it targets a historically disadvantaged and unpopular group; and second, DOMA intrudes broadly into domestic relations, an area of traditional state regulation,” said Mary Bonauto, GLAD’s Civil Rights Project director, who argued the case. “Congress does not get to put its ‘thumb on the scales,’ as the court put it, simply because it does not agree with Massachusetts’ decision to allow loving and committed same-sex couples to marry.” White House spokesman Jay Carney told reporters that the 1st Circuit’s ruling is “in concert with the president’s views.” Carney declined to say whether the administration would actively seek to have DOMA overturned if the case goes before the Supreme Court. “I can’t predict what the next steps will be in handling cases of this nature,” he said. The next step in Gill v. OPM is for the federal Office of Personnel Management and the House-appointed attorneys to decide whether they will appeal to the Supreme Court. That request should come within the next 90 days. Even if they choose to appeal, the Supreme Court need not take up the case. If the Supreme Court declines to hear an appeal, the 1st Circuit’s ruling would stand, but it would apply only to the states within the circuit – Massachusetts, Rhode Island,
Maine, and New Hampshire, and the commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
r74
continued from cover far were collected by volunteers, not paid signature gatherers. However, he did not shy away from saying the campaign did hire professionals, and that the signatures they gathered have not yet been added to the total. Washington United for Marriage officials say they are not surprised at the opposition’s success in signature gathering. In fact, Zach Silk, Washington United for Marriage campaign manager, says his group always figured their opponents would reach their goal. Washington United for Marriage has already raised $714,000, but will need a lot more to fight off the bigots when Referendum 74 qualifies for the ballot. According to the Public Disclosure Commission, Preserve Marriage Washington has raised more than $43,000. However, that amount is a drop in the bucket, considering the deep pockets of national groups opposed to marriage equality, which have already promised money and resources to the Washington campaign. The most notable of these groups is the Washington, D.C.-based National Organization for Marriage, which has helped overturn same-sex marriage laws in California and Maine. If Referendum 74 makes the ballot, supporters of marriage equality will need to vote Yes to approve it, despite having opposed the petition campaign to qualify it.
POLL
continued from cover most exactly the same,” S360’s Vice President of Polling and Research Kevin Ingham told SGN. “The implication is that opinion is starting to settle out on this. There’s been a lot of discussion of President Obama’s statement [supporting marriage equality], but it doesn’t look like it’s changed the numbers.” In a statement posted on its website, Washington United for Marriage hailed the new poll as confirmation of public support for the campaign to Approve Referendum 74. “This poll shows that an overwhelming majority of Washington voters agree that
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Celebrating 39 Years!
their Lesbian and Gay friends, co-workers, and family members should have the freedom to marry,” said Zach Silk, Washington United campaign manager. Crunching the numbers The latest S360 survey of 500 likely voters was conducted May 22-24, and has a 4.4% margin of error. Support for legalizing Gay and Lesbian marriages carried across all demographics and all regions of the state. Only among self-identified Republicans did the idea fail to win support. Support for marriage equality was particularly strong among women voters and among voters under 45. Sixty-one percent of women favored legalizing same-sex marriages, with only 29% opposed. Among men the split was much closer, with 47% in favor and 38% opposed. Nevertheless, the nine-point spread among men indicates solid support for Gay and Lesbian marriages. Many polls have indicated that support for marriage equality is the prevalent view among younger voters, and the S360 poll is no exception. Voters in the 18-34 age group
approved legalizing same-sex marriage by a substantial 63%-26% margin, and in the 3544 age group equality wins by a 64%-31% margin. But the poll also shows marriage equality ahead among the oldest group of voters. Forty-four percent of voters over 65 said same-sex marriage should be legal, while 40% said it should be illegal. Race and culture are sometimes assumed to be significant factors in forming opinions on same-sex marriage, but S360 found that both white voters and those of other racial groups said same-sex marriages should be legal. Among white voters, 56% said same-sex marriages should be legal and only 32% said they should be illegal. Although S360 did not separate out data for different communities of color, respondents in the “all other” category supported legalizing same-sex marriages by a 13-point margin, 50% in favor and 37% opposed. Geographically, the North Sound region showed the highest level of support for same-sex marriages. Sixty-four percent of voters in this region support legalizing Gay and Lesbian marriages with only 23% op-
posed – a 41-point spread. In King County, the margin was 60%30%, and even in Eastern Washington, 44% agreed that same-sex marriage should be legal, with 41% opposed. Of all the groups identified by S360 in their report, only Republicans rejected marriage equality – by a 39-point margin. Only 22% of self-identified Republicans said same-sex marriage should be legal, as opposed to 61% who thought it should be illegal. Democrats showed an even greater margin in favor of marriage equality – a whopping 80 points, 87%-7%. Independents favored equality by a 52%-36% margin. What does this mean for Referendum 74? A PPP poll released in February asked specifically if voters planned to vote to approve Referendum 74, which the S360 poll did not ask. PPP found a much narrower margin of support for marriage equality, with 54% saying they would vote to approve Washington’s Marriage Equality Act, and 46% saying they would vote against it. Among poll watchers, it is well known that how a question is asked can influence
how respondents answer. Some observers have speculated that asking the “legal or illegal” question could imply a possible legal penalty for same-sex couples – which even some opponents of equality would not support – and therefore skew the results in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage. Ingham told SGN that he was aware of the issue, but S360 deliberately decided not to ask about Referendum 74. “That’s not the question we wanted to ask,” S360’s Ingham explained. “We took the question right off a national poll, because we wanted to be able to compare the results across several states.” Asked if the Approve Referendum 74 campaign was concerned that the poll results might be misleading because of S360’s approach, campaign manager Silk replied “No, not at all.” “The basic question is whether or not people support marriage for all committed couples and the answer was a resounding ‘yes,’” Silk told SGN. “That’s an important baseline and terrific confirmation that what we hear when we talk to people about marriage is captured in an independent poll.”
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Celebrating 39 Years!
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