Issue 22 Volume 39
Celebrating 38 Years!
PRIDE EVENTS p. 5
BEN COHEN p. 7
OBAMA PROCLAMATION p. 12
Seattle Gay News Rainbows in the rough 2011 PRIDE FRIDAY June 3, 2011
FREE! 25¢ in bookstores & news stands
SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY shaun knittel
Centralia launches Gay Pride in WA
Katrina Duall
BANNERS UP ON BROADWAY!!
Centralia/Lewis County Pride
by Katrina Duall Special to the SGN On May 26, 2011, in the small hub city of Centralia, Washington, a group of 50 gathered to celebrate the Fifth Annual Lewis County Pride Event, hosted by the Centralia College Gay Straight Alliance, in the Campus Clock Tower Square. Although it was a Thursday and grey clouds lingered above, there was no stopping this
party, as the GSA was prepared with heavy-duty tents and chairs for everyone to lounge in. A small affair with lots of variety, empowering speeches from local community leaders, and a couple of testimonies of personal struggles and accomplishments set the tone for the day: Together, we can do anything!
For SGN’s comprehensive 2011 Pride calendar, turn to page 5.
see lewis county page 27
Gay City and PrideFest stand McDermott introduces firm on event tobacco policy Tax Equity Bill for DP When Jeffrey King, president of OutVentures, an outdoor organization for the LGBT community, began the process of procuring booth space at PrideFest, the annual Gay Pride celebration at Seattle Center, he was faced with a policy that he just couldn’t stomach: all organizations and businesses wishing to set up shop at PrideFest are required to submit to a policy stating that they offer or could refer people to smoking-cessation services. The plan this year is simple: If you do not comply, you cannot rent a booth. King was outraged. OutVentures has been a part of PrideFest for years. “Why the new requirement?” he wondered. “Our board does not believe that any outside body has the right to dictate any policies we should or should not have. The particular policy they are asking us to add or change is completely irrelevant,” King told Seattle Gay News. “What is relevant is that Gay City – and PrideFest, for that matter – are resee tobacco page 28
benefits in USA
The bill also offers some tax benefits for employers who offer health care coverage to employees’ domestic partners. “As things stand,” McDermott explained in a statement, “companies are forced to pay higher federal taxes when they extend health care benefits to domestic partners – that’s wrong and it must be corrected. “My legislation would be especially important to Seattle, where a number of American companies are located – like Microsoft, Amazon, Starbucks, and others – who offer these health benefits to their employees.” Seattle Congressman Jim McDermott “Seattle is also home to a by Mike Andrew large LGBT population,” McDerSGN Staff Writer mott continued, “many of whom are impacted by this inequity and Seattle Congressman Jim Mc- would benefit from changing the Dermott (D-Wash.) introduced law, as my bill would do.” legislation on June 2 to establish Health care benefits for sameequal treatment under the tax code sex domestic partners are currently for employees who cover their considered extra income, and are domestic partners under their employer-provided health care plans. see tax equity page 27 file photo
shaun knittel
PrideFest at Seattle Center
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor
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Seattle Gay News
June 3, 2011
Celebrating 38 Years!
Visit us online www.sgn.org
June 3, 2011
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Seattle Gay News
June 3, 2011
Celebrating 38 Years!
PRIDE EVENTS
CALENDAR
SEATTLE MUFFIN TOPS AND SEATTLE FATCATS EXHIBITION SOFTBALL GAME TO BENEFIT LAMBERT HOUSE On Saturday, June 4, at 2 p.m. (the field opens at 1 p.m.) at the Bobby Morris Playfield at Cal Anderson Park (1635 11th Ave. at E. Olive St.), the Seattle Muffin Tops and Seattle FatCats present their third annual exhibition game against the youth, volunteers and staff of Lambert House to benefit Lambert House, Seattle’s GLBTQ youth community resource center. The goal of the game is to have fun, introduce youth to Gay sports, and raise money for Lambert House through donations at the game.
pal, Rebecca, who buries herself in the project as a means of escaping her problems. As the grand opening for the center draws near, the group faces a rise in anti-Gay sentiment in their community that challenges them personally and threatens their efforts to create a safe and accepting environment. Set against the backdrop of a fantastical coffee
SISTAH SINEMA PRESENTS TRAINING RULES On Saturday, June 4, at 3 p.m., at Hula Hula (106 1st Ave. N.), in celebration of the start of the Women’s National Basketball Association’s season, Sistah Sinema will screen Training Rules which documents the discrimination experienced by Lesbian basketball players at Penn State University for nearly three decades under Coach Renee Portland. The lead protagonist is Jen Harris, an African American star basketball player. Watch trailer at www.trainingrules. com/trailer.html. Tickets are $5 in advance at www.sistahsinema.webs.com and $10 at the door. There will be ticket giveaways to upcoming WNBA games. A moderated discussion will follow. (For more information about Sistah Sinema, see May 28 listing above.)
shop, the show explores themes of acceptance and self-worth while dealing with the contemporary issues of homophobia, transphobia, bullying and youth suicide. So pull up a chair and grab a drink. You’re always welcome here! Tickets: $15 at the door (22 and under admitted FREE). Diverse Harmony is a Gay/straight alliance youth chorus for Gay, Lesbian, BisexSEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS’ ual, Transgender and straight youth (ages “HEARTTHROBS” CONCERT 13-22). “We use our passion and the power IN LANGLEY, WA of music to inspire the celebration of differ(WHIDBEY ISLAND) ences in our homes, community and world.” On Saturday, June 4, at 7 p.m., at South www.diverseharmony.org. Whidbey High School Performing Arts
Center (5675 Maxwelton Road, Langley, WA), the Seattle Men’s Chorus presents “Heartthrobs.” Get ready to scream and faint with excitement as Seattle Men’s Chorus thrills fans of all generations with a musical look at America’s singing heartthrobs – the boy bands! This high-energy program pays tribute to six decades of male singing groups, from the Ink Spots to the Jonas Brothers, with a host of other swoon-worthy acts – like the Beatles, the Bee Gees, the Temptations, Earth, Wind & Fire, Menudo, the Backstreet Boys, and ‘N Sync – sandwiched in between. A benefit for Citizens Against Domestic & Sexual Abuse (CADA). Tickets: $25. 360-675-7057 and at numerous outlets around the island. DIVERSE HARMONY IN CONCERT – “DOUBLE SHOTS AND FORGET-ME-NOTS” On Saturday, June 4, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 5, at 2 p.m., at Broadway Performance Hall (1625 Broadway at E. Pine St.), Diverse Harmony presents “Double Shots and Forget-Me-Nots,” an original musical written by Diverse Harmony members Kat Miller and Adam Quillian. Welcome to the Double Shot Cafe, where more is brewing than just the coffee. Jake, the shop’s junior manager, wants to start a Queer community center in his town. But Jake is a dreamer, not a doer, so he pushes all the work onto others, especially his gal
CAPTAIN SMARTY PANTS “GOES BOOKISH” AND SENSIBLE SHOES “GOES DIVA” AT TOWN HALL The Seattle Men’s Chorus’ small ensemble, Captain Smarty Pants, performs “Eat, Pray, Pant” on Fridays and Saturdays, June 3 and 10 at 8 p.m. and June 4 and 11 at 9 p.m., at Town Hall (1119 8th Ave. at Seneca St.). Whether it’s The Velveteen Rabbit, The Valley of the Dolls, or The Shining, we all have our favorite books. Captain Smartypants brings ten of their all-time favorite books to musical life as only these snappy boys can. In “Eat, Pray, Pant” Captain Smarty Pants sings and dances their way through Yertle the Turtle, Twilight, The Wizard of Oz, Frankenstein, The Joy of Gay Sex, Alice in Wonderland, and The Odyssey among others. Classics like Wuthering Heights and Dante’s Inferno get the 30-second threatment, Mario Puzo tries his hand at writing kid’s books and Shakespeare gets updated a la Riverdance. Librarians will be on hand at the show to sign you up for a library card. The Seattle Women’s Chorus’ small ensemble, Sensible Shoes, performs “Viva La Diva” on Saturdays, June 4 and 11 at 7 p.m., at Town Hall (1119 8th Ave. at Seneca St.). This like-minded small ensemble is made up of members of Seattle Women’s Chorus who enjoy discovering their inner “Diva.”
OUT IN AMERICA ON KCTS 9 TV On Wednesday, June 8, at 8:30 p.m., KCTS 9 TV will broadcast OUT in America, an uplifting collection of unique, transformative stories and inspiring personal narratives told through the lens of the country’s most prominent LGBT figures and pioneers, as well as many average, yet extraordinary, citizens from Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender communities. The program weaves together diverse stories – from urban and rural America, from the heartland to New England, from San Francisco to Harlem. Deeply moving and often humorous, viewers will get a glimpse of awakenings, first crushes, unlikely soul mates, intimacy and liberation. While separated by circumstance and upbringing, the film’s subjects are all united in their shared experiences of self-discovery, coming out, pride and love as well as a triumph over adversity and a true RAIN CITY SOCCER sense of belonging. Against the backdrop of UNDERWEAR PARTY historical events, each also traces their own FUNDRAISER On Saturday, June 4, from 9 p.m.-1 a.m., hopes, struggles, influences and contribuat The Lobby (916 E. Pike St.), join Rain tions toward advancements in equality and City Soccer for their second annual “Not broad social change. Required … But Desired” underwear party UW’S 10TH ANNUAL featuring athletes from the tournament. EnLAVENDER GRADUATION joy raffle prizes and happy hour prices on On Wednesday, June 8, from 6-8 p.m., drinks with $5 donation. This event is being held in conjunction with the Rain City Soc- at the Don James Center (Husky Stadium, cer’s 2011 Friendly Tournament, June 3-5. Montlake Ave. NE, just north of the Montlake Bridge), come be a part of the Univerwww.raincitysoccer.org. sity of Washington’s 10th Annual Lavender Graduation. This year’s ceremony features 2011 SOAP PRIDE IDOL Every Sunday through June 19, join Se- a keynote address by nationally known Seattle Out and Proud (SO&P) at the 2011 attle author Cheryl Kilodavis Her book, My Pride Idol competition at Neighbours (1509 Princess Boy (wwwmyprincessboy.com), is Broadway - entrance in alley between Har- a nonfiction picture book about acceptance. vard and Broadway off E. Pike St.). Doors It tells the tale of a 4-year old boy who hapat 6 p.m., contest at 7 p.m. Wildcard round pily expresses his authentic self by enjoyon June 12; finale on June 19 and the winner ing “traditional girl” things like jewelry, will perform on the Pride Idol Float in the sparkles, or anything pink! It is designed to Seattle Pride Parade on Sunday, June 26. No start and continue a dialogue about unconditional friendship. Jennifer Self, director of cover. www.seattlepride.org. the UW’s Q Center will lead the ceremony. The public is invited to attend. “AGING YOUR WAY” – For more information, call (206) 897CONVERSATIONS FOR 1430. COMMUNITY CHANGE On Tuesday, June 7, from 5:30-8:30 p.m., SEATTLE FRONTRUNNERS at The Central (500 30th Ave. S., near S. UNDERWEAR FASHION SHOW FUNDRAISER On Friday, June 10, at 9 p.m. at R Place (619 E. Pine St. at Boylston Ave.), the Seattle Frontrunners with Lady Chablis will host an underwear fashion show featuring music by Vintage Youth. $5 suggested donation to benefit Seattle Frontrunners Run and Walk Jackson St.), join interested LGBT com- with Pride to be held June 19. www.seattlemunity members in a conversation about frontrunners.org. “Aging Your Way,” a new initiative to bring CAPITAL CITY Baby Boomers and other younger-thinking PRIDE FESTIVAL older adults and their local communities to& PRIDE PARADE gether to plan for their future. “Aging Your IN OLYMPIA Way” is working with communities in King JUNE 11 & 12 County to bring together neighbors, serThe Capital City Pride Festival will be vice providers and businesses to share their strengths, passion, knowledge and relation- held on Saturday, June 11, and Sunday, June ships to create supportive places where 12, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at Sylvester Park people can live confidently as they age. This (Capitol Way S. and Legion way SW), with conversation is sponsored by Senior Servic- speakers and entertainment, food and venes and they invite your participation. Their dor booths, and a beer garden. On Sunday, previous seven gatherings have outstripped June 12, the Capital City Pride Parade steps their expectations, producing inspired vi- off at noon from the State Capitol building, sions and ongoing action teams. They look proceeding through downtown Olympia forward to more success at this gathering for to the Pride Festival in Sylvester Park. For LGBT Baby Boomers. Food and beverage more information and a complete schedule will be served. RSVP by June 5 at www.se- of entertainment at the Festival, visit www. niorsservices.org and scroll down and click capitalcitypride.net on “Aging Your Way” or call Sabrina Jones SPOKANE’S 20TH ANNUAL at 206-268-6702. PRIDE PARADE & RAINBOW FESTIVAL POZSEATTLE PRIDE SOCIAL JUNE 11 On Wednesday, June 8, from 6-8 p.m. www.outspokanepride.com at The Cuff Complex (1533 13th Ave. at E. Pine St.) join POZSeattle for their anRADICAL WOMEN PRESENTS nual Pride Social. Meet on the back patio SCREAMING QUEENS: for BBQ, socializing, to catch-up with old THE RIOT AT COMPTON’S friends, to make new ones, and a whole lot CAFETERIA 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. www.pozseattle.org. see pride calendar page 21 From the Girls Groups of the ‘60s to the Rockers of the ‘80s and beyond, they will leave no bra unturned as they explore the sassy, sexy world of the female singing groups, including: the Angels, the Ronnettes, Joan Jett, Cyndi Lauper, Joni Mitchell, Madonna, Lady Gaga, and more. The song list includes Swinging on a Star, Lollipop, Express Yourself, Big Yellow Taxi, Da Doo Ron Ron, One Fine Day, Be My Baby, My Boyfriend’s Back, Toxic, Pocketful of Sunshine, We Got the Beat, Walk Like an Egyptian, I Love Rock and Roll and a few of Sensible Shoes’ patented parodies. Both shows are recommended for mature audiences only. Tickets: $20-$45 advance; $25-$40 at the door; premium table seating is $35-$50 with limited availability. 206-388-1400; www. flyinghouse.org
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Allyship forum on youth homelessness by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Allyship debuted the fourth year of its popular Queerly Classed discussion series with a forum on homeless Queer youth on June 1. Allyship founder and board member Debbie Carlsen introduced the forum, saying “this is new territory for Allyship.” An organization working “in solidarity with marginalized communities to understand the interconnectedness of oppression,” Allyship has taken on a number of controversial issues, including the rights of sex workers and disappearing Queer space on Capitol Hill. Their latest forum was titled “Voice Up Voice Out: Queer homeless youth tell us how we can be allies.” The program began and ended with spoken-word performances by “writer, dancer, creationist, first-generation gender-bender, and community nerd” Knowmad, and Steffie Stansbery, who “generally spends her time touching trees, straddling the dorkyhipster line, and confusing children’s schemas of gender,” according to Carlsen. Featured panelists included Selam Gebrekidan, an LGBTQ youth leader and current resident at Youthcare; Erica Olsen, an LGBTQ youth leader and former resident at Youthcare; Fatima Arain, a radical Queer Pakistani femme youth worker who spends
her days at Peace for the Streets by Kids from the Streets, a homeless youth agency in Capitol Hill; Kyle Rapinan, an LGBTQ youth leader, previous co-chair of the international Safe Schools Coalition, current Commissioner of Seattle’s LGBT Commission, UW Q Center trainer, trainer with the NW Network: Seattle Queer Youth Speakers Bureau, and formerly homeless youth; and Eileen Corcoran, a formerly homeless addict and street prostitute who currently is the founder of Rising Above Sexual Exploitation (RASE), a street-based outreach and advocacy program that works with homeless youth at risk for sexual exploitation. “It sucks when you’re an outcast,” Gebrekidan said in her presentation. “When you’re a person of color, when you’re Trans – even in the supposedly Queer shelters there’s sexism, Transphobia, homophobia….” Olsen recounted a long and complex relationship with an alcoholic mother and her mother’s Mormon boyfriend that led to her moving out as a teenager. “It was a huge deal for me, moving out,” she remembered. “I felt like I was hurting [my mother] by moving out because I felt like I had to take care of her.” Lambert House became “a huge part of my world,” she added. Since then, she said, she’s also become acquainted with “Orion house, Queer Youth Space – amazing stuff!”
Saying she had “never been homeless – my experience is as an ally and advocate,” Fatima Arain noted that amenities most people might take for granted are simply not available to homeless youth. “Healthcare, dental care, safer sex information and materials, nutrition – access is hard enough if you’re homeless, but add being Queer, add being youth – you have all these layers of marginalization….” “Even public restrooms,” she continued. “If you’re Trans, where do you go? It’s the same for homeless, but in a different way. … People yell at you, they call the cops. Public urination can be classified as a sex crime.” “What we need is a real drop-in center to serve – I don’t like to call it a population, I call it a subculture,” Eileen Corcoran said. “I came to Seattle in 1993 to get clean, and I didn’t make it to treatment till 2005,” she added. “I’m a big believer in harm reduction.” After recounting the harrowing story of a brother who Gay-bashed him and threatened to kill him, and a mother who publicly rejected him – “I’ll never forget the look on her face when she told me she didn’t love me anymore,” he said – Rapinan spoke about empowering Queer youth. “We should have representation on the boards of directors of foundations that give out money for Queer youth issues,” he said. “It shouldn’t be that all the decisions are made by professional staff, or people who will never have to use these services.” Remembering “three years of couch surfing” during which he depended on publicly funded services, Rapinan had harsh words for budget hawks. “For all the people who say, ‘Cut spending,’ these services saved my fucking life!” Several panelists also noted that young people over the age of 24 are cut off from designated “youth services” but may not qualify for adult services until they reach their mid- or late 30s. Allyship plans a volunteer meeting on June 13 for people who want to work on youth homelessness issues. That meeting will be held at the Douglass-Truth Library, 2300 E. Yesler Way, at 6 p.m. The next installment of the Queerly Classed series will be July 3.
In Loving Memory Of
Steve Foiles, Scott Roger Alpert, Cookie Andrews-Hunt, James Leland Moore, Randy Peters, Lee Richeson, Shaun Shelton, Jim Tully, James Arnold
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Seattle Gay News
June 3, 2011
Celebrating 38 Years!
New organization launched to support LGBT military partners
Rugby star Ben Cohen tours Seattle, promotes StandUp Foundation courtesy ben cohen
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor May 31 marked the official launch of Military Partners and Families Coalition (MPFC), an organization that provides support, resources, education, and advocacy for LGBT military partners and their families. According to MPFC officials, “while the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ will eventually allow Gay and Lesbian troops to be honest about their lives and openly acknowledge and affirm their relationships, their partners will get few of the many benefits military spouses receive.” “MPFC will provide a support system for military partners and families who can’t get that support from the Defense Department,” said Ariana Bostian-Kentes, MPFC spokesperson, whose partner is currently serving but cannot be identified while DADT is still in place. “Mrs. Obama and [Vice-President] Biden have earned our respect for speaking out in support of military families recently – we are complementing that effort by standing up for the many military families that are left out.” “Sometimes you need concrete resources, other times you just need to reach out to someone who knows what you’re going through,” said Bostian-Kentes. “We will be working with other organizations, including OutServe and LGBT veterans’ organiza-
tions, but we felt we needed a group to focus on our concerns as partners.” According to news reports, the core group that founded MPFC, including BostianKentes, provided testimony to the Pentagon Working Group that studied DADT last year. “Supporting our partners and family members is a top priority for our members,” said the active-duty co-director of OutServe, the association of actively serving LGBT military personnel, who goes by the pseudonym JD Smith. “We are proud to partner with MPFC, and we look forward to working together for the benefit of all our families.” Over the next few months, MPFC officials say they will build a strong online presence for a membership that spans the globe, create new partnerships with organizations that can provide military families with assistance, and connect partners and families with much-needed education and resources. The group is expected to grow significantly after the formal repeal of DADT. “We welcome all interested military partners, families, allies, and organizations to join our movement,” concluded BostianKentes. “Our partners have chosen to serve in the military and we have chosen to be part of that service. We believe that a well-caredfor military family leads to a more effective servicemember; this is our duty as we see it.”
Remembering Joe Marino
Joe Marino, a longtime champion for Ryan White funds and a former county commissioner for Cowlitz County, WA, died on May 23, 2011, in Seattle at age 67. Eschewing the fact that he came from a great football family, Joe served in the Air Force in Da Nang, Vietnam, during the Tet Offensive. After a six-year stint as a Phoenix, AZ, police officer, Joe opened his own leather/Levi bar in Phoenix called The Bum Steer. Armed with a master’s degree in finance and taxation, he worked as an accountant in West Hollywood, CA, even-
tually moving north to Mendocino where he did payroll for a company with 600 employees. He also served as CFO for the Mendocino County arts council as well as president of the Redwood Empire Bears. After moving to the Pacific Northwest, Joe served as co-chair and advocate for the Portland Planning Council on AIDS. He was also on the Washington State Governor’s Task Force for HIV-AIDS and fought since 1990 to get Ryan White funds to help pay for clients’ rent. As a 25-year long-term survivor of the AIDS virus himself, Joe knew what it was like to bury two former lovers from the disease. If the LGBT community ever needed a role model, Joe Marino had “the right stuff.” He was “always in leadership roles until he retired,” said his brother, Kenny. Joe was the collective daddy for a number of men who followed him throughout the West. As an intellectual warrior, he was passionate about people and politics. When it comes to taxes and paying the IRS, Joe memorably told this favorite son, “honesty is the best policy.” Joe is survived by his parents and brother, Kenny, and sister-in-law, Cindy Marino, all of Phoenix. Donations may be made in his memory to the Lifelong AIDS Alliance of Seattle.
Ben Cohen
by Anthony Greer SGN Contributing Writer
2003. He later moved to France and joined CA Brive before eventually returning to England, where he spent two years with the British rugby star Ben Cohen visited Se- Sale Sharks. He recently retired from rugby attle this past weekend as part of his tour to to focus on his philanthropic career. “There are lots of different things going promote the StandUp Foundation. “The StandUp Foundation is meant to on,” Cohen explained when asked about his help stop bullying in the LGBT community. future plans. “There’s a TV program, we’re It’s about making a difference,” Cohen said. doing some more touring, working with “It’s about standing up for what I believe in the HRC, Campus Pride, Matthew Shepard and what I’m passionate about. I started the Foundation, and It Gets Better, so we’re doing a lot of stuff with them and I’ve also got foundation for those exact reasons.” The StandUp Foundation is the world’s a coaching guide coming out and will be first anti-bullying organization, and Cohen visiting more schools and colleges and talkhimself is the first straight sports star to fo- ing more about putting a stop to bullying. “Basically we’re trying to affect the cus his philanthropic efforts on the LGBT younger generation because they’re going community. “I’ve always had a big Gay following and to be the decision makers of tomorrow and I’ve found that I’m in a position to where I the parents of tomorrow.” Cohen also stated that he will be staying can actually make a difference in peoples’ within the rugby arena as much as possible lives,” Cohen said. In 2008 he replaced David Beckham as and that he’s excited about standing up for Gay Times’ sports personality of the year equality and making a difference. and came in second as their sexiest man of the year. He also appeared in Attitude, a best-selling Gay magazine in Britain, and has supported Gay Men Fighting AIDS (GMFA), a British charity. The Ben Cohen Acceptance Tour went from May 19 through May 29. Cohen visited four cities with Gay and/or Gay-friendly rugby clubs. While in Seattle, Cohen supported the Magnitude Tournament and also spoke at the University of Washington and the Madison Renaissance Hotel. Cohen started playing rugby professionally with the Northampton Saints at 17. During his 11 years with the Saints, the team won the Heineken Cup and then he went on to win the World Cup with England in
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Gülistan Aydogdu/Kaos GL
LGBT people marched in Ankara, Turkey, May 22 at the conclusion of the 6th International Meeting Against Homophobia.
NATIONAL
NEWS
Nevada passes Trans bill Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval, a Republican, signed a bill May 24 that bans employment discrimination based on gender identity or expression. Sandoval said he also will sign other Transgender-protection bills that are en route from the Legislature. Those measures cover housing and public accommodations. Nevada becomes the 14th state (plus D.C.) to protect Transgender people under state law. Bloomberg gives rousing speech for same-sex marriage New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, an independent, gave an enthusiastic – and seemingly heartfelt – speech May 26 urging the state Legislature to legalize same-sex marriage in the current session. The mayor’s address took place at the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art. “The next great barrier standing before our generation is the prohibition on marriage for same-sex couples,” Bloomberg
by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer said. “The question is: Why now? And why New York? I believe both answers start at the Stonewall Inn. When the Village erupted in protest 42 years ago next month, New York – and every other state in the nation, save one – still had laws on the books that same-sex relationships were a crime. A couple could go to prison for years just for being intimate in the privacy of their own homes. For men and women of that era, an era many of us remember well, being in a Gay relationship meant living in fear: Fear of police harassment. Fear of public humiliation. Fear of workplace discrimination. Fear of physical violence. “[Since then,] thousands of courageous individuals risked everything to come out and speak out. And because they did – because they organized and protested, because they poured their hearts out to friends and families and neighbors, [because] they stood up for their rights and marched for equality and ran for office – laws banning same-sex relationships have been struck down by the Supreme Court. More than 20 states have adopted laws that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation. And beginning
this year, patriotic men and women will be able to enlist in the U.S. military without having to hide their identity. We owe all of these pioneers a deep debt of gratitude. And although the work is far from over, there is no doubt that we have passed the tipping point. ... It is not a matter of if, but when. “And the question for every New York state lawmaker is: Do you want to be remembered as a leader on civil rights? Or an obstructionist? Remember, on matters of freedom and equality, history has not remembered obstructionists kindly. Not on abolition. Not on abortion. Not on women’s suffrage. Not on workers’ rights. Not on civil rights. And it will be no different on marriage rights. ... “[T]his is our time to stand up for equality. This is our time to conquer the next frontier of freedom. This is our time to be bold and brave as pioneers who came before us were. And this is our time to lead the American journey forward. ... As other states recognize the rights of same-sex couples to marry, we cannot stand by and watch. To do so would betray our civic values and history – and it would harm our competitive edge in the global economy. ...
Seattle Gay News
June 3, 2011
With assistance from Bill Kelley
INTERNATIONAL
NEWS
Russian LGBT film festival visits Siberia St. Petersburg, Russia’s Side by Side LGBT International Film Festival went on the road to Siberia in May. Films were shown in Novosibirsk May 19-22 and in Kemerovo May 20-22. The screenings went off without incident. Last year in Kemerovo, officials tried to stop the festival by pressuring host venues, organizers said. Danish documentary filmmaker Iben Haahr Andersen attended this year’s events and discussed her film Hello, My Name Is Lesbian. Side by Side’s Gulya Sultanova said, “We have defended our right to hold open and free cultural LGBT events. We have been able to screen LGBT films to the public and discuss complex social issues. We will continue working in this manner in order to bring around change and [show] that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender people are not to be feared or despised, but [are] ordinary people who are in need of acceptance
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“It is my hope that a majority of the state Senate will recognize that supporting marriage equality is not only consistent with our civic principles – it is consistent with conservative principles. Conservatives believe that government should not intrude into people’s personal lives – and it’s just none of government’s business who you love. Conservatives also believe that government should not stand in the way of free markets and private associations – including contracts between consenting parties. And that’s exactly what marriage is: a contract, a legal bond, between two adults who vow to support one another, in sickness and in health. ... “Now, there’s a reason that I’m so passionate about this issue and so determined to push for change. I see the pain the status quo causes, and I can’t defend it. When I meet a New Yorker who is Gay, when I speak with members and family members of my staff who are Gay, when I look into the eyes of my [Lesbian] niece, Rachel [Tiven, head of Immigration Equality], I cannot tell them that their government is correct in denying them the right to marry. I can’t tell them that marriage is not for them. I can’t tell them that a civil union is good enough. In our democracy, near-equality is no equality. Government either treats everyone the same, or it doesn’t. And right now, it doesn’t. ... “[But] there is no retreating to a past that has disappeared. There is no holding back a wave that has crested. And there is no denying a freedom that belongs to all of us. The time has come for us to fulfill the dreams that exploded into Sheridan Square 42 years ago, to allow thousands of men and women to become full members of the American family, and to take the next step on the inspiring journey our Founding Fathers first began.” Bloomberg’s speech was enthusiastically received across the LGBT blogosphere, although a few New York Gay leaders complained that if he feels that strongly about same-sex marriage, he should vow to stop donating money to politicians who oppose it. The New York Times called Bloomberg’s words “an uncharacteristically forceful and sweeping speech ... an unusually personal address from a mayor known for dispassionate number crunching and policy analysis.” To read the full speech as prepared, see tinyurl.com/bloomberg-marriage. (The quotations here are from the speech as it was delivered.) To watch the speech, see tinyurl. com/bloomwatch.
by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer and equal rights.” LGBTs march in Turkey LGBT people marched in Ankara, Turkey, May 22 at the conclusion of the 6th International Meeting Against Homophobia. A group of Iranian LGBT refugees joined the procession, proclaiming: “Ahmadinejad! We exist! We are here!” At a 2007 appearance in New York City, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was quoted by journalists as saying there are no Gay people in Iran. His actual words were: “We in Iran don’t have homo-play [hamjensbaz] like you have in your country. In our country ... absolutely such a thing does not exist as a phenomenon. I don’t know who told you otherwise.” A group from Istanbul traveled to the march together in a “Rainbow Bus.” Marchers also came from Diyarbakir, Adana, Eskisehir and Izmir. With assistance from Bill Kelley
Celebrating 38 Years!
NORTHWEST
for nearly three decades under Coach Renee Portland. The lead protagonist is Jen Harris, an African American star basketball player. Watch trailer at www.trainingrules.com/ trailer.html. A moderated discussion will compiled by Rick McKinnon follow. Tickets are $5 in advance at www. SGN Staff Writer sistahsinema.webs.com and $10 at the door. There will be great food, prizes, WNBA RAIN CITY SOCCER CLUB arouet.us or www.brownpapertickets.com/ ticket giveaways, and an opportunity to HOSTS 2011 RAIN CITY event/174247. $10 rush tickets will be sold purchase Storm flexpasses. This event is coFRIENDLY TOURNAMENT 5 minutes before showtime, depending on sponsored by Jet City Hoops. AND UNDERWEAR PARTY availability. http://arouet.us. JUNE 3-5 DIVERSE HARMONY On Friday, June 3, from 6-10 p.m., at R IN CONCERT – CAPTAIN SMARTY PANTS Place (619 E. Pine St. at Boylston Ave.), “DOUBLE SHOTS AND “GOES BOOKISH” join Rain City Soccer for a tournament FORGET-ME-NOTS” AND SENSIBLE SHOES registration mixer/kick-off party. For extra On Saturday, June 4, at 7 p.m., and Sun“GOES DIVA” fun, stay late for the drag show and dance day, June 5, at 2 p.m., at Broadway PerforAT TOWN HALL party. On Saturday, June 4, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., The Seattle Men’s Chorus’ small ensem- mance Hall (1625 Broadway at E. Pine St.), at Starfire Sports Complex (6840 Fort Dent ble, Captain Smarty Pants, performs “Eat, Diverse Harmony presents “Double Shots Way, Tukwila), Rain City hosts their annual Pray, Pant” on Fridays and Saturdays, June and Forget-Me-Nots,” an original musical jamboree-style friendly tournament. Spec- 3 and 10 at 8 p.m. and June 4 and 11 at 9 written by Diverse Harmony members Kat tators welcome – Mad Pizza overlooks the p.m., at Town Hall (1119 8th Ave. at Seneca Miller and Adam Quillian. field and serves food and beer. On Saturday, St.), bringing ten of their all-time favorite Tickets: $15 at the door (22 and under adJune 4, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., at Lobby Bar (916 E. books to musical life as only these snappy mitted FREE). Pike St.), Rain City hosts their second annu- boys can. Diverse Harmony is a Gay/straight allial “Not Required ... But Desired” underwear The Seattle Women’s Chorus’ small en- ance youth chorus for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexparty and fundraising raffle. $5 suggested semble, Sensible Shoes, performs “Viva ual, Transgender and straight youth (ages donation gives you happy hour prices at the La Diva” on Saturdays, June 4 and 11 at 7 13-22). “We use our passion and the power bar and athletes from the tournament will p.m., at Town Hall (1119 8th Ave. at Seneca of music to inspire the celebration of differmodel underwear. On Sunday, June 5, 9:30 St.). From the Girls Groups of the ‘60s to ences in our homes, community and world.” a.m.-2 p.m., at Purr Cocktail Lounge (1518 the Rockers of the ‘80s and beyond, they www.diverseharmony.org. 11th Ave.), say goodbye to everyone at the will leave no bra unturned as they explore Farewell Brunch. For only $10.50, you’ll the sassy, sexy world of the female singing SEATTLE PRIDE IDOL get a delicious breakfast – mimosa includ- groups. On Sundays through June 19, doors at 6 ed! www.raincitysoccer.org. Both shows are recommended for mature p.m., competition at 7 p.m., at Neighbours (1509 Broadway, entrance in alley off E. audiences only. THE NEXT WAVE: Tickets: $20-$45 advance; $25-$40 at the Pike St. between Broadway and Harvard), SEATTLE BUTOH FESTIVAL 2011 door; premium table seating is $35-$50 with join Seattle Out and Proud (SO&P) for SeJUNE 3-18 limited availability. 206-388-1400; www. attle’s Pride Idol talent competition to see DAIPANbutoh Collective presents The flyinghouse.org. who will represent Seattle Out & Proud on Next WAVE in conjunction with the Seattle the Pride Idol Float in the Seattle Pride PaInternational Dance Festival with perforrade on Sunday, June 26. Wildcard June 12, “YES, YOU MAY” SHOW mances, workshops, and forums on historifinale June 19. For complete details, visit WITH TARA HARDY cal and current aspects of butoh. www.seattlepride.com. AND ELAINA M. ELLIS International butoh masters Koichi and AT FREMONT ABBEY Hiroko Tamano, co-directors of San Fran“AGING YOUR WAY” – On Friday, June 3, at 8 p.m., at Fremont cisco Bay Area based Harupin Ha, will be Abbey Arts Center, 4272 Fremont Ave. N., A CONVERSATION the featured performers along with New celebrate the debut of two new books to the FOR COMMUNITY CHANGE York butoh artist Tanya Calamoneri, Los world: Bring Down the Chandeliers by Tara On Tuesday, June 7, 5:30-8:30 p.m., at Angeles based Michael Sakamoto and Hardy and Write About an Empty Birdcage The Central (500 30th Ave. S., near S. Jackmembers of DAIPAN (Sheri Brown, Diana by Elaina M. Ellis, at the “Yes, You May” son St.) join Louise Chernin, Executive DiGarcia-Snyder, Joan Laage, Douglas Rid- show. Fusing poetry and music, the show rector of the GSBA, and interested LGBT ings, Alan Sutherland and Danse Perdue). will be a celebration, a narration, and a rau- community members of all ages, for a lively Butoh founder Hijikata called Koichi “the cous release of these two collections. In discussion on aging in the LGBT commubow-legged Nijinsky.” This may be the last addition to readings by the authors, special nity. Help create a vision for our communichance to see the Tamano’s work as they guests will perform music and read poetry. ty, identifying what services, programs and plan to retire later this year and return to The “Yes, You May” show, which will tour supports will help people (including you) Japan. The emperor of Japan has declared nationally in the fall, invites audiences to age confidently and securely in the LGBT Koichi Tamano a national treasure. write their own outrageous self-permission community. Food will be served. Performances will be held on Friday and slips. What is it that you thought you could RSVP by June 5 requested. Visit www. Saturday, June 3 and 4, at 7:30 p.m., at never say? Who is it that you thought you seniorservices.org and scroll down to click Velocity Dance Center (1621 12th Ave.). should never be? What if you were suddenly on “Aging Your Way” or call Sabrina Jones Tickets: $15 in advance at www.brownpa- allowed to live your dreams? Shouting YES at 206-268-6702. Sponsored by Senior Serpertickets.com/event/176268 or $20 at the and other expletives, Tara Hardy and Elaina vices. door. For complete information on the fes- M. Ellis will lovingly yet bossingly demontival and to register for the workshops, visit strate what’s possible when raw honesty and GSBA PRIME TIME MIXER www.daipanbutoh.com. On Wednesday, June 8, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at bold permission get on stage together. Watertown Hotel (4242 Roosevelt Way NE), AROUET PRESENTS join GSBA members and friends for this SEATTLE MUFFIN TOPS THE GENE POOL month’s Prime Time Mixer. Have a glass of AND SEATTLE FATCATS AT ANNEX THEATRE wine and a snack and just lay back and chat. EXHIBITION SOFTBALL GAME From June 3 to June 19, on Fridays and Cost: $10-GSBA members, $15-nonmemTO BENEFIT LAMBERT HOUSE Saturdays at 8 p.m. with additional perforOn Saturday, June 4, at 2 p.m. (the field bers, $10-students. RSVP to 206-363-9188; mances Monday, June 6, and Thursday, June opens at 1 p.m.) at the Bobby Morris Play- www.thegsba.org. The GSBA (Greater Se9, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, June 19, at 2 p.m., field at Cal Anderson Park (1635 11th Ave. attle Business Association) is Seattle’s LGat The Annex Theatre (1100 E. Pike St., 2nd at E. Olive St.), the Seattle Muffin Tops and BTQ and allies chamber of commerce. Floor), Arouet presents the Seattle premiere Seattle FatCats present their third annual of The Gene Pool. POZ SEATTLE PRIDE SOCIAL exhibition game against the youth, volunMeet the Grays – an average family. Mira teers and staff of Lambert House to benefit On Wednesday, June 8, 6-8 p.m., at The cooks, cleans, wears dresses, is sexually Lambert House, Seattle’s GLBTQ youth Cuff Complex (1533 13th Ave. at E. Pine frustrated, and her spouse is a workaholic community resource center. The goal of the St.), join POZSeattle for their annual Pride veterinarian. Their son is almost 18, has a game is to have fun, introduce youth to Gay Social/First Grillin’ Event OUTSIDE!!! new girlfriend that he wants to lose his vir- sports, and raise money for Lambert House Meet on the back patio for BBQ, socializginity with, and is always hungry. The only through donations at the game. ing, to catch-up with old friends, make new way in which this family is not conventional ones, and a whole lot of fun. This event is is that the parents are Lesbians. What hapFREE (except for the cost of beverages), and SISTAH SINEMA PRESENTS pens when their son wants to know who his is for all HIV-Positive men and their friends, TRAINING RULES dad is? The Gene Pool explores the family’s On Saturday, June 4, at 3 p.m., at Hula regardless of age, shape, size, or color. relationships and how they are dealing with Hula (106 1st Ave. N.), in celebration of the www.pozseattle.org. their mid-life crises, their son’s resolution to start of the Women’s National Basketball lose his virginity, and ... oh yeah, his ques- Association’s season, Sistah Sinema will SEATTLE GAY & LESBIAN tion, “Moms, who is my Dad?” BOOK CLUB – screen Training Rules which documents Tickets: $12-$18 general admission. Res- the discrimination experienced by Lesbian ANDRE GIDE’S ervations at 425-298-3852 or boxoffice@ basketball players at Penn State University THE COUNTERFEITERS
NEWS
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June 3, 2011
The Seattle Gay & Lesbian Book Club meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Dunshee House (303 17th Ave. E. at E. Thomas St.). All GLBTQ folks in the community are welcome to participate in this FREE book club. The book for June is Andre Gide’s The Counterfeiters, one of the all-time masterpieces by a Gay author. The novel won Gide the Nobel Prize in 1924 and mixes Gay and straight characters in the same way as Iris Murdoch’s A Fairly Honourable Defeat and Alan Hollinghurst’s The Line of Beauty. The Counterfeiters has nothing to do with fake money. It’s about people who are fake and deceive, and it’s an unforgettable reading experience. There are a zillion things to discuss and it’s so rich we may well continue with our discussions into July. For more information, email nickdimartin@earthlink.net or contact Dunshee House at 206-322-2437. PUBLIC MEETING FOR INPUT ON DESIGN WORK AT WASHINGTON PARK ARBORETUM On Wednesday, June 8, 6:30-8 p.m., at the Graham Visitors Center (2300 Arboretum Dr. E.), Seattle Parks and Recreation, the University of Washington Botanic Gardens, and the Arboretum Foundation are hosting a public meeting to discuss the future design for the north entry and a multi-use trail from E. Madison St. to the north entry. ALL THINGS JAPANESE SALE – JAPANESE CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY CENTER JUNE 9-11 The Japanese Cultural & Community Center of Washington (JCCCW) is holding its first ever All Things Japanese Sale on Friday, June 10, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Saturday, June 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., at the Cultural Center (1414 S. Weller St.). The sale will feature a wide variety of Japanese items including dolls, furniture, fans, traditional dress, jewelry, art, books, plush toys, tableware and much, much more. There will be something for everyone with over one thousand antiques and collectibles on sale and prices starting at just $0.25. In addition to the general sale, there will be a special nighttime sneak preview and reception on Thursday, June 9, 7-10 p.m, for collectors, enthusiasts and community members. The nighttime sneak preview and reception will give you the opportunity to get first crack at the most coveted merchandise. Light appetizers and beverage will be provided. Sneak preview admission is $50. All of the proceeds raised at the sale will go toward supporting the mission of JCCCW to preserve, promote and share Japanese and Japanese American culture and heritage. 206-568-7114; www. jcccw.org. SEATTLE FRONTRUNNERS UNDERWEAR FASHION SHOW FUNDRAISER AT R-PLACE On Friday, June 10, 9 p.m., at R Place (619 E. Pine St. at Boylston Ave.), Seattle Frontrunners and Lady Chablis are hosting a pre-Run and Walk with Pride 2011 underwear fashion show fundraiser with music by Vintage Youth. $5 suggested donation. The Run and Walk with Pride 2011 will be held June 19. www.seattlefrontrunners.org. CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE DAY JUNE 11 On Saturday, June 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., join Capitol Hill neighbors throughout the Hill and at the community space at Federal Ave. E. & E. Republican St. for a neighborhood wide garage/rummage/yard sale. Deadline to register your sale on the website or to reserve a space at the community space is Tuesday, June 7. For more information, visit www.capitolhillgaragesale.com.
Seattle Gay News
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Activist’s 6,000 mile walk to end discrimination begins in Seattle
shaun knittel
Alan Bounville
by Nick Ardizzone SGN Staff Writer On May 31, Alan Bounville began his 6,000-mile journey to Washington, D.C. After a brief candlelight sendoff in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, Bounville set out for the nation’s capital – on foot. Bounville stopped by the SGN offices on
his way out of town to share the beliefs he hopes to spread across the nation during his journey. “I want to inspire an open conversation about full civil rights,” Bounville said. During his walk, he will be focusing on raising the issue of LGBTQ equality and tackling society’s fear of those who don’t fit neatly
into the male/female gender binary. “We need a dream. That builds energy in a movement.” Bounville hopes to bring attention to gender inequality by taking the issue out of insular Pride parades and bringing it into the streets. “In an insulated environment, we’re not tapping into the populace. … Walk down the street with a rainbow flag and talk about your issues. We’re out, but we need to be out more. We talk about Pride parades and marches … but the media gets to manipulate that by just showing a guy in a thong or a drag queen,” he said. “Which is great,” he laughed, “but the point is the media gets to portray it however they like.” “We all have equal power to create our own action,” he said. “We don’t need to wait for other people to tell us what to do.” Bounville encourages people to visit the website Connecting Rainbows (connectingrainbows.ning.com) to join the fight for full civil rights for LGBTQ people in America. His walk is detailed at his website, Into the Light (www.intothelightwalk.com). “A person’s gender identity and gender expression should be decided not predetermined by expectations, but by each of us as individuals,” Bounville writes on his website. “Until that is the accepted norm, we will continue to live in an imbalanced world where people who are transgender are beaten, murdered and refused jobs, where women are paid less than men for the same amount of work, where men aggress against each other, where Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and all people are judged not on the quality
SGN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
MTV’s Real World star Scott Herman rides for LifeCycle by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor On June 5, athlete, model, actor, and reality TV star (MTV’s The Real World) Scott Herman will set out from San Francisco and embark on a seven-day bike ride to Los Angeles as celebrity “spokes-rider” for the 10th annual AIDS/LifeCycle, the world’s largest annual HIV/AIDS fundraising event. Leading his six-person “Team Scott Herman Fitness,” he will pedal 545 miles with over 2,500 other riders to help raise more than $12 million for the HIV/AIDS-related services of the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. The week-long ride begins on June 5, the 30th anniversary of our nation’s battle against AIDS. With no experience in distance cycling, Herman said, “Taking on a new physical challenge is exhilarating – especially when I’m doing it to support a cause I’m so passionate about.” A vocal supporter of the LGBT community and marriage rights, Scott feels a connection to the event because like his online community, AIDS/LifeCycle is all about helping people be as healthy as possible. Seattle Gay News caught up with Scott to talk about the challenge. “To be honest, I haven’t had much time to train,” he told SGN. “Between all the horrible weather New England had to offer and preparing for the Tough Mudder Competition I participated in a few weeks ago, I’d say my riding time isn’t quite up to par. But hey, I love a challenge!” Scott takes a no-nonsense approach to LGBT advocacy. He said he supports marriage equality and HIV/AIDS research “because it is the right thing to do – period.” “HIV/AIDS is a horrible disease and the amount of suffering those living with it endure who can’t afford treatments is preposterous,” he said. “Being a celebrity, to me, doesn’t mean that people should kiss your ass and give
10 Seattle Gay News
June 3, 2011
of who they are as people, but on how ‘masculine’ or ‘feminine’ they are perceived to be - and that’s just the beginning.” The Into the Light walk will coordinate with people and organizations along the route to hold numerous candlelight vigils at sites where people have been murdered or have taken their own lives due to gender discrimination. During his walk – which Bounville speculates will last from 9-18 months – he will offer free workshops on gender expression/ identity, social movement, and civil disobedience. “It is vital that people have the proper tools to recognize injustice and create their own actions that demand the changes they seek,” said Bounville. As his proposed route will take him deep into the South, SGN asked if Bounville is prepared for any possible confrontations he will face. “Obviously, yeah,” he said. “You’re walking across the country with a rainbow banner. But people have done [walks like] this before, for many different reasons, and been just fine. However….” He paused. “Well, people are mostly good,” he said with a confident smile. Ten percent of donations to Bounville’s walk will go to the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (www.transgenderlegal.org), an organization that shares the goal of ending gender discrimination. Tax-deductible donations can be made on the Into the Light website. “It’s gonna take a long time,” Bounville said, “but I’ll keep putting one foot in front of the other.”
you free stuff or pay you thousands of dollars to make an appearance at a bar,” said Scott. “Being a celebrity means you have a voice, and from where I sit, you have two ways you could use that voice: for good or for evil. I am going to use my voice, which is amplified by how loud I fight for equality in the LGBT community, to encourage others to participate in events like the AIDS/ LifeCycle ride.” Scott will ride with Phillip Schlueter, Adam Ebnit, and Glenn Paladini. “I have my very own Hermanites,” he joked. “They are great guys and I am looking forward to riding with them.” Scott told SGN that he believes you measure a person’s character based on their actions. “It is such a gratifying feeling to help a stranger,” he said. “You may not be able to do the AIDS/LifeCycle ride, but you should still try to find ways to help others in your own community. You never know, you might make a friend for life.” The actor and fitness expert says that he is pleased to see the nation rallying behind anti-bullying messages. “I was bullied a lot as a kid and, to be honest, that is what drove me to fitness,” he said. “I wanted to look like the superheroes I idolized as a kid so that maybe one day I could save others, too. Now that I am all grown up, I may not have super powers, but I still feel like my wish came true. If I can be the shield that protects our youth from being bullied, then so be it. I know that as more straight allies come to the front lines, our LGBT youth will feel safer in the fight for equality.” Scott says he loves his LGBT fans. “I would like to say ‘Thank you’ for all the support, and as Scott Herman Fitness grows bigger and bigger, I will continue to use my voice to fight for equality in the LGBT community. I wouldn’t be here without you, and I am not a man who forgets where he comes from.” More information on AIDS/LifeCycle can be found at www.aidslifecycle.org.
Celebrating 38 Years!
Rise n’ Shine fundraiser U.S. “concern” over violent end to garners over $10,000 by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor For 22 years, Rise n’ Shine has provided emotional support programs, stability, advocacy, and AIDS education for children and teens affected by HIV/AIDS. This includes children and teens who have been orphaned by the disease, those who live with a parent or other close family member with HIV/AIDS, and those who are infected themselves. In a nutshell, Rise n’ Shine is for the kids – the very youth our LGBT community has rallied around to support. Nobody rallies and raises funds quite like the Gays. Proving that point, a group of bartenders from the local community got together May 25 at Purr Cocktail Lounge for a bartender auction to raise money for the kids at Rise n’ Shine. The event, hosted by local drag entertainer GLAMAZONIA and sponsored by Barbie Humphrey, owner of Purr and a Rise n’ Shine advisory board member, raised upwards of $10,000. “It feels great to be able to give back to the community,” said GLAMAZONIA. “Rise n’ Shine is a great organization that has been around for a long time, so it’s always good to help out where it’s needed. The organization is well-managed and everything is handled locally. They do a good job at staying focused and not straying from their mission statement, which is to help the kids.” This year marked the third time GLA-
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MAZONIA has hosted the bartender auction. She has a history of working with the organization beyond this event as well; last year she held a toy drive fundraiser for Rise n’ Shine. This year’s event had plenty of sponsors. Effen Vodka, UnderU4men, and the bartenders from Purr, The Grill on Broadway, The Elite, R Place, and Lobby Bar pulled out all the stops to raise a substantial amount of cash for the beneficiary. “The money raised at Purr will be used for Rise n’ Shine’s mentor program,” Janet L. Trinkaus, founder of Rise n’ Shine, told Seattle Gay News. “Children and teens affected by HIV/AIDS must cope with far more personal and social pressures than kids from any previous generation. To help them cope, they need structured mentor relationships. Many of Rise n’ Shine’s mentors come from our community.” The children of Rise n’ Shine know about loss and change, as they have dealt with moving and custody switches, guardians, new schools, and living with HIV/AIDS in their family. Often, Rise n’ Shine volunteer mentors are some of the child’s most stable relationships. Their interactions are very valuable, especially during these major life situations and transitions. If you are interested in making a difference in the life of a child or a teen by becoming a mentor or special friend, please contact Rise n’ Shine at volunteer@risenshine. org. Mentor qualifications can be found on the “Volunteer” page of the website.
Russian Gay rally by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor U.S. State Department officials voiced “concern” Sunday over the violent end to a Gay rights rally in Moscow and called on Russian authorities to better safeguard “fundamental freedoms” of assembly. “We note with concern … that a peaceable demonstration of Russians advocating for the rights of Gays and Lesbians, joined by international supporters, was forcefully disrupted by counter-protesters, and that Russian security forces then detained people from both groups,” U.S. State Department spokesman Mark Toner said in a statement. On May 28, Russian security forces detained American citizens at the march, Toner noted. “We call on Russian authorities to work with municipal officials to find better ways to safeguard these fundamental freedoms that members of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe [OSCE] are committed to,” Toner said. Moscow police detained three global Gay rights leaders, including renowned U.S. activists Dan Choi and Andy Thayer, along with dozens of Russians in a violent end to a rally that activists tried to stage near the Kremlin wall. According to news reports, members of an ultra-Orthodox group who successfully lobbied Moscow to ban the event attacked the small crowd of young marchers.
June 3, 2011
“Freedom of assembly is a fundamental right all members of the OSCE committed to, including in the Moscow declaration and as recently as the [2010] Astana summit,” said Toner. “As nationwide legislative elections approach, constraints on the ability of Russian citizens peacefully to gather and express their views will be closely watched in evaluating the integrity of the electoral process,” he added. Organizers said the three Westerners – Choi, Thayer, and French activist LouisGeorge Tin – and most of the 30 Russians were released after a few hours of detention. Human rights groups have repeatedly condemned Russian police for being more lenient with nationalist forces than with demonstrators supporting minority rights and freedoms.
Seattle Gay News 11
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor
On May 31, President Obama issued his third annual Pride proclamation. Afterwards, his administration unveiled a new website, www.whitehouse.gov/lgbt, providing resources for LGBT Americans and highlighting the president’s accomplishments and initiatives for the LGBT community. The site, “Winning the Future,” is the first ever LGBT-oriented constituency webpage in U.S. history. Brian Bond, Gay liaison to the president, says the site is intended to keep LGBT Americans up to date on the administration’s efforts on behalf of the community. The website includes a homepage with LGBTQ political and legislative news highlights, a fact sheet, and resources to help visitors find more information on HIV/ AIDS, anti-discrimination, and DADT. “Winning the Future” also includes links to a blog and to President Obama and other administrative officials’ video messages for the “It Gets Better” anti-bullying and suicide prevention campaign. Obama’s Pride proclamation follows: “The story of America’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community is the story of our fathers and sons, our mothers and daughters, and our friends and neighbors who continue the task of making our country a more perfect Union.
It is a story about the struggle to realize the great American promise that all people can live with dignity and fairness under the law. Each June, we commemorate the courageous individuals who have fought to achieve this promise for LGBT Americans, and we rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of equal rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. “Since taking office, my administration has made significant progress towards achieving equality for LGBT Americans. Last December, I was proud to sign the repeal of the discriminatory ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy. With this repeal, Gay and Lesbian Americans will be able to serve openly in our Armed Forces for the first time in our nation’s history. Our national security will be strengthened and the heroic contributions these Americans make to our military, and have made throughout our history, will be fully recognized. “My administration has also taken steps to eliminate discrimination against LGBT Americans in Federal housing programs and to give LGBT Americans the right to visit their loved ones in the hospital. We have made clear through executive branch nondiscrimination policies that discrimination on the basis of gender identity in the Federal workplace will not be tolerated. I have continued to nominate and appoint highly qualified, openly LGBT individuals to executive branch and judicial positions. Because we recognize that LGBT rights are human
file photo
Obama issues Pride proclamation, unveils new LGBT website
President Barack Obama
rights, my administration stands with advocates of equality around the world in leading the fight against pernicious laws targeting LGBT persons and malicious attempts to exclude LGBT organizations from full participation in the international system. We led a global campaign to ensure ‘sexual orientation’ was included in the United Nations resolution on extrajudicial execution – the only United Nations resolution that specifically mentions LGBT people – to send the unequivocal message that no matter where it occurs, state-sanctioned killing of Gays and Lesbians is indefensible. No one should be harmed because of who they are or who they love, and my administration has mobilized unprecedented public commitments from countries around the world to join in the fight against hate and homophobia. “At home, we are working to address and eliminate violence against LGBT individuals through our enforcement and implementation of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr., Hate Crimes Prevention Act. We are also working to reduce the threat of bullying against young people, including LGBT youth. My administration is actively engaged with educators and community leaders across America to reduce violence and discrimination in schools. To help dispel the myth that bullying is a harmless or inevitable part of growing up, the first lady and I hosted the first White House Conference on Bullying Prevention in March. Many senior administration officials have also joined me in reaching out to LGBT
youth who have been bullied by recording ‘It Gets Better’ video messages to assure them they are not alone. “This month also marks the 30th anniversary of the emergence of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which has had a profound impact on the LGBT community. Though we have made strides in combating this devastating disease, more work remains to be done, and I am committed to expanding access to HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Last year, I announced the first comprehensive National HIV/AIDS Strategy for the United States. This strategy focuses on combinations of evidence-based approaches to decrease new HIV infections in high-risk communities, improve care for people living with HIV/ AIDS, and reduce health disparities. My administration also increased domestic HIV/ AIDS funding to support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program and HIV prevention, and to invest in HIV/AIDS-related research. However, government cannot take on this disease alone. This landmark anniversary is an opportunity for the LGBT community and allies to recommit to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and continuing the fight against this deadly pandemic. “Every generation of Americans has brought our nation closer to fulfilling its promise of equality. While progress has taken time, our achievements in advancing the rights of LGBT Americans remind us that history is on our side, and that the American people will never stop striving toward liberty and justice for all.”
Reel Queer Youth accepting applications by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Reel Queer Youth, now in its third year, is a filmmaking workshop for LGBTQ youth and their allies. Three Dollar Bill Cinema, producer of the Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival and Reel Queer Youth, is proud to announce that applications are being accepted now for this year’s Reel Queer Youth program. The week-long workshop will be held July 18-22. According to officials, participants will use professional cameras and editing equipment to create a short film along with a team of professional filmmakers and mentors in a safe, open, and fun environ-
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ment. In addition, discussions examining media representations of LGBTQ people will be included. “It’s exciting to see how this program has expanded,” said Jason Plourde, programming director for Three Dollar Bill Cinema. “This year, we have a mentor and youth participants coming from California, thanks to the Bay Area Video Coalition and from all over Washington state. With such diverse participants and inspiring mentors, I can’t wait to see the films they create.” Through a partnership with Reel Grrls, the workshops and training will be held in Seattle’s Central District from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. A “Friends and Family” screening of the completed works will be held on the afternoon of July 23. Reid Kuennen, program manager for Reel Queer Youth, underscored the importance of the program. “This is the program I wish I had when I was young. Our media environment is severely lacking in positive representations of Queer people and their communities.” Applications can be filled out online at www.threedollarbillcinema.org/programs/ RQY. The application deadline is June 30.
Celebrating 38 Years!
Broadway
Farmers Market Visit us online www.sgn.org
NEW LOCATION! B'way & E. Pine, at Seattle Central Community College Sundays, 11am - 3pm, May 8 - Dec 18. June 3, 2011
Seattle Gay News 13
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Celebrating 38 Years!
June 24th, 7 PM – midnight Pravda Studios, 1406 10th Avenue, Seattle AgeS 13 And uP! $5 Suggested donation
(proceeds benefit GLSEN Washington State)
7 – 8 PM: Opening Act (TBD) 8 PM – midnight: dJ dance party with dJ *V* 10 PM: Lady Gaga look-a-like contest, prizes TBD Light refreshments will be provided. Guests will receive a wristband for free entry to Neighbours after 2 AM (18+ only)
Tickets available at: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/174990 Having a ticket guarantees entry. Limited quantities available at the door. Thanks to Seattle Gay News, Panache, Pac Med, PFLAG, SO&P, Court of Seattle, Central Co-Op Entertainment provided by Antrim Music Productions (AMP)
Visit us online www.sgn.org
June 3, 2011
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Celebrating 38 Years!
Visit us online www.sgn.org
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Celebrating 38 Years!
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The Drag Queens Vs. The Dykes
Hosted by GaysHa starr
Saturday, June 18th, 2011 Cal anderSon Park, BoBBy MorriS Ball Field GateS oPen at 4 PM GaMe FroM 5 to 9 PM
Celebrating 38 Years!
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On Thursday, June 16, at 7:30 p.m., at New Freeway Hall (5018 Rainier Ave. S.), Radical Women presents a video screening of Screaming Queens: The Riot at Compton’s Cafeteria. This documentary delves into the little-known story of a 1966 riot in San Francisco when a collective uprising
rus thrills fans of all generations with a musical look at America’s singing heartthrobs – the boy bands! This high-energy program pays tribute to six decades of male singing groups, from the Ink Spots to the Jonas Brothers, with a host of other swoon-worthy acts – like the Beatles, the Bee Gees, the Temptations, Earth, Wind & Fire, Menudo, the Backstreet Boys, and ‘N Sync – sandwiched in between. Tickets: $14, $23, $29. 360-373-6743; www.admiraltheatre.org.
against the social oppression of Queer people took place, three years before the famous Gay riots at New York City’s Stonewall Inn. $3-$5 suggested donation. (Dinner, with a vegetarian option, will be available at 6:30 p.m. for $7.50 donation.) For more information, rides or childcare, call 206-722-6057 or 722-2453. Everyone welcome. Wheelchair accessible.
ORCA SWIM TEAM’S “BLOW HOLE” UNDERWEAR PARTY On Saturday, June 18, at 9 p.m., at The Lobby (916 E. Pike St.) join the Orca Swim Team for a fun evening with swimmers in Speedos, go-go boys and girls, Daniel Webster underwear and swimsuit modeling, drink specials, music by DJ Chris Brese“UNTIL THE FAT LADY SINGS…” mann, and special debut performance by A BENEFIT SHOW FOR Orca Swim Team drag queen patron JuanAIDS HOUSING ASSOCIATION ita DeFuca – all to benefit the Orca Swim OF TACOMA Team’s competition scholarship fund. No On Friday, June 17, pre-show reception cover! www.orcaswimteam.org. at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m., at the Blue Mouse Theater (2611 North Proctor, TacoSEATTLE FRONTRUNNERS’ ma), see the Northwest’s best drag queens RUN AND WALK WITH PRIDE in a benefit show for AIDS Housing Asso4K WALK & RUN; 10K RUN ciation of Tacoma (AHAT). Must be 18+. On Sunday, June 19, at 10 a.m., at Seward Tickets: $20-includes pre-show reception; Park (5895 Lake Washington Blvd. S), the $10-general admission; at the door or www. Seattle Frontrunners will host Run and Walk aidshousingtacoma.org. 253-272-5533. with Pride, a 4K walk and run and a 10K run open to all. Registration cost is $20 online, SEATTLE DYKE MARCH $25 day of race; $10 student/low income BENEFIT AT TOMMY GUN online, $15 day of race. All abilities are welOn Friday, June 17, at 8 p.m., at Tommy come, so come and join the fun! Chip timGun (1703 E. Olive Way, between Boylston ing is provided and there will be awards for Ave. E. and Harvard Ave. E.), join Seattle top finishers. Event t-shirts will be given to Dyke March supporters for a fundraising all finishers and finishers will be eligible for benefit to finance this year’s Dyke March. fabulous raffle prizes. Proceeds to benefit The Dyke March has been very lucky, be- Three Dollar Bill Cinema, producers of the cause due to the hard work of several folks a Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival. few years back we were able to raise enough Seattle Frontrunners is one of the largest money to operate for three years with mini- running and walking clubs in the Northwest, mal additions needed. But now, we are back and welcomes all abilities. www.seattleon our own and need to meet our budget frontrunners.org. requirements. So it’s time for a party! With fabulous raffle prizes and an excellent DJ. SEATTLE OUT AND PROUD’S All of your $10 cover will go to support the SEATTLE PRIDE PICNIC Dyke March. www.seattledykemarch.com On Sunday, June 19, the Seattle Pride Picnic will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at VolBAT N’ ROUGE XIII unteer Park (14th Ave. E. & E. Prospect St.). THE DYKES VS DRAG QUEENS $1 (one dollar) gets you hamburgers, hotPRIDE WEEK KICKOFF GAME dogs and veggie burgers and all the fixings. AT CAL ANDERSON PARK The picnic welcomes the LGBT community On Saturday, June 18, from 5-8 p.m., at and allied families. Enjoy music, games and Bobby Morris Playfield in Cal Anderson revelry. “Let’s celebrate the family spirit of Park (11th Ave. and E. Howell St.), the Cap- Pride.” Sponsored by Seattle Out and Proud itol Hill Alano Club presents Bat N’ Rouge (SO&P), producers of Seattle’s annual Pride XIII – The Dykes vs. Drag Queens’s Pride Parade. www.seattlepride.org Week Kickoff Game with your host Gaysha Starr. Bat N’ Rouge is a fundraising event SEATTLE FAITH & PRIDE 2011 – to benefit Capitol Hill Alano Club, which AN EVENING WITH has an ongoing mission of drug and alcohol JENNIFER KNAPP recovery. CHAC is a nonprofit organization AT ST. MARK’S CATHEDRAL now in its 28th year of service in the Seattle On Tuesday, June 21, doors at 6:30 p.m., LGBT community. concert at 7 p.m., at St. Mark’s Cathedral For more information, visit www.chacse- (1245 10th Ave. E.), join local faith-based attle.org. LGBT ministries as well as other community organizations serving the LGBT KITSAP PRIDE PRESENTS community for an evening with musician SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS’ Jennifer Knapp. Grammy-nominated musi“HEARTTHROBS” CONCERT cian, Jennifer Knapp, rocked the Christian IN BREMERTON music world in the last two years by comOn Saturday, June 18, at 7 p.m., at the ing out and again taking up her music after a Admiral Theatre (515 Pacific Ave., Bremer- seven-year hiatus. At this special one-night ton), the Seattle Men’s Chorus presents event, Jennifer will tell her courageous story “Heartthrobs.” Get ready to scream and in a Q&A session as well as share her faith, faint with excitement as Seattle Men’s Cho- her life, and her art through her incredible
Visit us online www.sgn.org
voice and folk-alternative stylings. Opening the show for her will be Queer comic Lianna Carrera who will also join in the Q&A. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with local music and a ministry fair at the back of the nave. Faith-based LGBT ministries as well as other community organizations serving the LGBT community are invited to host tables inviting others to join their ministries. Following a performance by Lesbian comic Lianna Carrera, there will be a blessing of the community gathered and of the good work being done to make life better for LGBT persons. Jennifer Knapp’s music and her story will follow, celebrating the crazy human ways we experience and express God’s love. The concert is FREE to the public. www.jenniferknapp.com; ecww. org. QUEER TEEN ENSEMBLE THEATRE On Thursday, June 23, Friday, June 24, Saturday, June 25, Sunday, June 26, from 6:30-9 p.m., Washington Ensemble Theatre (608 19th Ave. E.) presents Queer Teen Ensemble Theatre (QTET), led by co-artistic director Jessica Hatlo. The performances will be the end result of the Ensemble’s model for ensemble-generated new works, where students collaboratively produce a piece of theatre based on their own experiences surrounding identity, love, and Queerness. The month-long intensive begins with directed free-writing that is eventually shared with the group and is later used to generate something new. This phase continues until there is a sense of cohesion, and texts are then molded into a working script. www.washingtonensemble.org. “SUMMER SOIREE: A COMEDY/CABARET SHOW TO BENEFIT THE SISTERS OF PERPETUAL INDULGENCE, THE ABBEY OF ST. JOAN” On Thursday, June 23, doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m., at Rendezvous Jewelbox Theater (2322 2nd Ave.), Breezy Mist Productions presents “Summer Soiree: A Comedy/Cabaret Show to Benefit The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, The Abbey of St. Joan.” “Summer Soiree” is a follow-up to last December’s highly successful Holiday Hullabaloo. Breezy Mist Productions (Seattle stand-up comic Rick Taylor and his husband Chris Ferguson) kicks off Pride Weekend with another installment of top
enjoying an amazing show. Tickets: $20-advance, $25 at the door. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/175808. “BOOGALOO BLITZ” PRIDE KICK-OFF AT THE WILDROSE On Thursday, June 23, at 9 p.m., at the Wildrose (1021 E. Pike St.), Kook Teflon and Seattle International Cabaret Fest present “Boogaloo Blitz” with Jackie Hell and friends, Lisa Dank, and others. PRIDEFEAST BENEFIT On Thursday, June 24, get your Pride weekend started early and help raise funds for LGBT health and wellness nonprofits at the fourth annual PrideFeast. For details and a list of participating restaurants, visit www. pridefeast.org. NAMES PROJECT AIDS MEMORIAL QUILT PANELS AT SEATTLE CENTER From June 24 through June 26, 10 panels from the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt will be on display at the Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center (south of the International Fountain). The display is sponsored by PrideFest. PRIDE SHABBAT 2011 On Friday, June 24, from 6-8 p.m., at Temple De Hirsch Sinai (1511 E. Pike St. – enter on 16th Ave. between E. Pike St. and E. Union St.) celebrate Pride Shabbat 2011 with service and celebration, light snacks and desserts. Pride Shabbat is a communitywide event brought to you by Bashert: The Jewish Federation of Seattle’s LGBTQ Initiative, Congregation Tikvah Chadashah, Kolenu, Jewish Family Service, Seattle Gay News, Temple Beth Am, and Temple De Hirsch Sinai. BENT WRITING INSTITUTE – “OUTWRITE: A PRIDE WORKSHOP” On Friday, June 24, from 6-8 p.m., Bent Writing Institute presents “OUTWRITE: A Pride Workshop.” OUTWRITE will be facilitated by one of Bent’s volunteer teachers and held at their Capitol Hill location – RSVP for details. Bent workshops create a safe and supportive environment for Queers to tell their stories and express themselves through writing. Come celebrate Pride with them at this community-building, substance-
notch comedy and cabaret acts to benefit The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, The Abbey of St. Joan, and the good work they do in the community. “Summer Soiree” will feature entertainment from DJ Mayhem, Sr. Dinah Doosh, Chris Ferguson, Barbara Sehr, Elicia Sanchez, Matt Baker, Helvetica Phont, JR Berard, Barbara Holm, Rylee Newton, Derek Sheen, Shannon Whaley, Rick Taylor, Emmett Montgomery, and one of the best cabaret acts in Seattle known simply as Kerry & James. The show will include music, standup comedy, dance, drag, and even some juggling. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, The Abbey of St. Joan, work hard at benefits for many other organizations in the community. This is a way you can benefit the Sisters and the work they do with their granting fun. Helping is as easy as buying a ticket and
free event. All Queer-identified folks are welcome: no previous writing experience is necessary. Cost is pay-what-you-can and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Please RSVP to bent.news@gmail.com if you plan to attend.
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2ND ANNUAL PROM DRESS RUGBY EXHIBITION GAME On Friday, June 24, from 6-9 p.m., Seattle Quake Rugby will present their 2nd Annual “Prom Dress Rugby” (at a location still to be determined). Similar to the annual “Dykes vs. Drag Queens” softball game, admission will be $5 to “prime” sideline areas and the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, the Abbey of St. Joan, will be selling penalties, conversions, scrums, line-outs, meters, tries see pride calendar page 23
Hate vs. hate: KKK pickets Fred Phelps REUTERS FILES/Kevin Lamarque
Members of the Westboro Baptist Church hold anti-Gay signs at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
Ku Klux Klan picketed Westboro Baptist Church members as they picketed MemoIn an even more bizarre scene than people rial Day ceremonies at Arlington National have come to expect from Fred Phelps, the Cemetery.
Labor speaks out for marriage equality in NY Courtesy of Pride At Work AFL-CIO The labor movement weighed in on the side of marriage equality in New York, where a bill to legalize same-sex marriage is pending in the state legislature. Among the labor organizations represented at a June 1 press conference were the Capital District Area Labor Federation (AFL-CIO), CSEA (AFSCME Local 1000), the Public Employees Federation, Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 2, SEIU, and the Capital District Chapter of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement. “The organized labor movement in this state and a majority of New Yorkers believe the denial of marriage equality hurts not just individuals, but also family members, neighbors, and co-workers who care about the well-being of same-sex couples and the children they care for,” said Capital District Area Labor Federation President Mary Sullivan. “Continuing to deny access to marriage for loving, committed same-sex couples discriminates against them and relegates them to second-class citizenship. The time for action, and passage of marriage equality legislation, is now.” “This is the defining civil rights issue of our time,” said CSEA President Danny Donohue. “We are announcing our support of the Marriage Equality Act in the hope that it will encourage state lawmakers to search their consciences and do what is right to approve this legislation.” SEIU Secretary-Treasurer Mike Lonigro announced that “my fellow officers and I fully support the issue of marriage equality.” “We will not accept anything less than total equality,” Lonigro continued. “As we speak, we are in contract negotiations where we are demanding, among other things, the right for employees to make their same-sex partners in life eligible pension beneficiaries. Marriage equality in New York State
would make this a non-issue and would free us up to negotiate for other important matters. I urge the New York State Legislature to pass this legislation before the end of the session.” Support from LCLAA – the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement – was particularly important because several legislators from Puerto Rican or other Spanishspeaking communities have publicly opposed marriage equality. LCLAA’s Phillippe Abraham stated, “As members of the labor movement and a community that defends social justice on many levels, LCLAA is firmly in support of marriage equality in New York State. We support the right of all people to be treated fairly under the law, and specifically of all committed couples to marry in New York State.” Labor leaders shared the stage at the presser with Empire State Pride Agenda Executive Director Ross Levi. “We are honored and proud to have our sisters and brothers from organized labor as partners in our fight to allow all loving, committed couples to marry in New York State,” Levi said. “Unions have long stood for fairness for all, and for ensuring that our society treats everyone with dignity and respect.” In a separate announcement, also on June 1, the New York City Central Labor Council, United Federation of Teachers, Communications Workers of America District 1, the Retail Wholesale and Department Store Union, Teamsters Local 237, and SEIU Locals 1199 and 32BJ also came out in favor of the Marriage Equality Act. “Our union prides itself on a diverse membership and as a champion of equality we believe that it is time for all New Yorkers to be treated equally,” said UFT President Michael Mulgrew in a statement from New Yorkers United for Marriage, the coalition working with Governor Andrew Cuomo to pass the bill. “This is a civil rights issue and we are
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Three Westboro members, led by Fred’s daughter Abigail, took up positions at a designated protest area near the Tomb of the Unknowns, where President Obama was scheduled to lead the ceremony honoring deceased service members. Phelps and his “church” – made up mainly of members of his own family – have made themselves notorious for picketing military funerals. They claim that God kills U.S. troops to punish the country for tolerating Gay sex. They were challenged by 10 members of a group calling itself “The Knights of the Southern Cross” and claiming to represent the KKK in Virginia. They were cordoned off in a separate protest area, and handed out small American flags behind “POW-MIA” banner. The Klansmen said they were there to object to the Westboro Baptist Church’s antitroop message. “It’s the soldiers that fought and died and gave them that right to free speech,” said Dennis LaBonte, the self-identified “Imperial Wizard” of the KKK group that he said he formed several years ago. “That’s fine,” said Abigail Phelps, the daughter of Westboro Baptist Church founder Fred Phelps. “They have no moral authority on anything. “People like them say it’s white power ... white supremacy,” Phelps said. “The Bible doesn’t say anywhere that it’s an abomination to be born of a certain gender or race.” Phelps said her trio was there to tell people they should not “idolize” the dead, especially those who died for an “unrighteous cause.” LaBonte told reporters that he is not a racist or a “hate-monger,” but said he believes the white race is “slowly and most assuredly being denigrated.” A larger group of about 70 protesters –
separate from the Klansmen – stood across the street and waved pro-USA signs. They took turns shouting down the Phelps group. Some of the counter-protesters then stood in front of the Westboro group in an attempt to block them from public view. “I think they’re twisted and confused, and we’re just here to show them there are people who think they’re completely wrong,” protester Malaika Elias told reporters at the scene. Mounted police officers were on hand, although they did not have an occasion to intervene. Phelps’ tactic of trying to disrupt military funerals began in 2006, when Westboro members appeared at the funeral of a young Marine killed in Iraq carrying signs reading “Thank God for Dead Soldiers” and shouting at mourners. The family of the Marine sued Phelps in 2007, alleging invasion of privacy, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and civil conspiracy. The trial jury awarded the Marine’s family $2.9 million in compensatory damages plus $8 million in punitive damages, which were reduced to $5 million. That verdict was reversed on appeal, however. In March, the U.S. Supreme Court accepted review of the case. The court is being asked to address how far entities such as cemeteries and churches can go in restricting demonstrators’ right to free speech. Ironically, Phelps first came to public attention in the 1960s as a crusading civil rights lawyer who took cases that even African American attorneys refused. Phelps was disbarred in 1979 by the Kansas Supreme Court amidst allegations of perjury and witness badgering. Eleven of Phelps’ 13 children are also attorneys.
calling on New York State’s Legislature to pass marriage equality legislation and give all New Yorkers the right to marry the person they love.” New York’s UFT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, whose President Randi Weingarten is an out Lesbian. Weingarten came out publicly during
a speech at the Empire State Pride Agenda Dinner in 2007. SEIU President Mary Kay Henry is also an out Lesbian, and has been described as “the most powerful Lesbian in the country.” SEIU is the second-largest union in the U.S. The AFT is number five.
Most countries more accepting of homosexuality by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor A new cross-national study shows a vast majority of countries have become more accepting of homosexuality. The trend, however, is slower or reversed in Russia and other ex-Socialist countries. With support from the Williams Institute, a report by the National Opinion Research Center (NORC) at the University of Chicago presents new findings on the crossnational differences in attitudes towards homosexuality. Based on five rounds of surveys administered in different countries between 1988 and 2008, the report examined general trends and ranked countries regarding their attitudes towards homosexuality. The study concludes, “Overwhelmingly, societies have become more accepting of homosexual behavior.” Thirty-one countries were identified with data that showed trends in public opinion about homosexual behavior. Of those, approval of homosexuality increased in 27 countries, and in only four countries did it decrease: Russia, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, and Latvia. Moreover, the growth in approval was stronger than the decline. According to the data, the one regional trend that was identified was that changes tended to be slower or reversed in Russia and other ex-Socialist countries. The five countries with the highest acceptance of homosexuality ratings are the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, and Belgium-Flanders. The bottom half of the list consisted of seven ex-Socialist states, four East Asian nations, three Latin American countries, Cyprus, South Africa, and Turkey. For ex-
ample, in Russia, 59% of the population felt that homosexual behavior was wrong in 1991 compared with 64% in 2008. In 2008, only 8% felt homosexual behavior was “not wrong at all.” Many countries, including the United States, showed a bimodal distribution, an indication that many people have strongly held opinions about homosexuality. For example, in 2008, the vast majority of respondents in the United States selected an option that was at one of the extremes of the opinion scale: 54% said homosexual behavior was “always wrong” while 32% indicated it was “not wrong at all.” Only 11% selected a response in the middle, such as “almost always wrong” or “wrong only sometimes.” The report also found that attitudes towards homosexuality are more tolerant among younger adults, those with more education, those attending religious services less often, and residents of large metropolitan areas. This pattern prevailed in almost all countries and the relationships are substantial in most countries. With regard to gender, women tend to be more approving of homosexual behavior than are men in most countries, but the differences are smaller and less consistent than other sociodemographics. Tom W. Smith, senior fellow and director of NORC, authored the report for the Center for the Study of Politics and Society at NORC/University of Chicago. Established in 1941, NORC is one of the largest and most highly respected social research organizations in the United States. For more information, visit www.norc.org. For the full report, visit http://www3. law.ucla.edu/williamsinstitute/pdf/SmithCrossNational-NORC-May2011.pdf
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and conversions to raise money for Seattle Quake Rugby and their mission. Because members of Seattle Quake Rugby will be wearing dresses, due to those limitations and the overall fun nature of this exhibition match, they will not be playing full tackle rugby. The opponents this year will be the Seattle RFC women’s team, The Breakers. Local celebrity announcer/referee will be the ever-fabulous Gaysha Starr. www. quakerugby.org FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO – FILM SCREENING On Friday, June 24, at 7 p.m., the documentary For the Bible Tells Me So will be shown at University Christian Church (4731 15th Ave. NE). Can the love between two people ever be an abomination? Is the chasm separating Gays and Lesbians and Christianity too wide to cross? Is the Bible an excuse to hate? Through the experiences of five very normal, very Christian, very American families – including those of former House Majority Leader Richard Gephardt and Episcopal bishop Gene Robinson – we discover how insightful people of faith handle the realization of having a Gay child. Informed by such respected voices as Bishop Desmond Tutu, Harvard’s Peter Gomes, Orthodox Rabbi Steve Greenberg and Reverend Jimmy Creech, For the Bible Tells Me So offers healing, clarity and understanding to anyone caught in the crosshairs of Scripture and sexual identity. This FREE screening is sponsored by University Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), University District Ecumenical Parish, University Congregational UCC, Emerald City MCC Seattle, and University Baptist Church. YOUTH PRIDE DANCE On Friday, June 24, from 7 p.m.-midnight, at Pravda Studios (1406 10th Ave., Ste 200), the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) of Washington State will be holding at Youth Pride Dance. The event is intended to give the under 21 community of LGBTQ youth and their allies a safe and fun way to participate in Seattle’s Pride weekend. The theme of the dance is “Born This Way” to go along with Seattle Pride’s theme of “Be You. Be Proud. Express Yourself!” The Youth Pride Dance hopes to honor this theme by allowing youth a space to celebrate themselves. An opening act to be determined will be scheduled from 7-8 p.m. From 8 p.m.-midnight a DJ dance party will be held. At 11 p.m. a Lady Gaga look-a-like contest will be held – prizes to be determined. Guests will receive a wristband for free entry to Neighbours after 2 a.m. Light refreshments will be served. A $5 suggested donation is requested. GLSEN strives to assure that each member of every school community is valued and respected regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN works with Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) groups in schools in the Seattle area and around the state as well as other LGBTQ youth centers, groups and organizations. SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS’ HEARTTHROBS CONCERTS AT MCCAW HALL On Friday, June 24, and Saturday, June 25, at 8 p.m., at McCaw Hall (321 Mercer St.) the Seattle Men’s Chorus presents “Heartthrobs.” Get ready to scream and faint with excitement as Seattle Men’s Chorus thrills fans of all generations with a musical look at America’s singing heartthrobs – the boy bands! This high-energy program pays tribute to six decades of male singing groups, from the Ink Spots to the Jonas Brothers, with a host of other swoon-worthy acts – like the Beatles, the Bee Gees, the Temptations, Earth, Wind & Fire, Menudo, the Backstreet Boys, and ‘N Sync – sandwiched in between. Tickets: $20-$55. 206-3881400; www.flyinghouse.org.
Dignity/Seattle hosts their 23rd annual Pride Pancake Breakfast at Central Lutheran Church Social Hall (1710 11th Ave., across from Cal Anderson Park). Includes raffle prizes. Cost is $7 donation. Proceeds go to Multifaith Works, Bailey-Boushay House, and Dignity/Seattle. Bring your old cell phones, empty ink cartridges, laptops, digital cameras, hand-held game systems, GPS devices to recycle. Dignity/Seattle has been a faith community of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Catholics and their families and friends in Seattle since 1973. For more information, visit www.dignityseattle.org. 13TH ANNUAL RAINBOW LBTQ HEALTH FAIR On Saturday, June 25, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at Gilda’s Club (1400 Broadway at E. Union St.), the YWCA’s Women’s Health Outreach Program is hosting the 13th Annual Rainbow LBTQ Health Fair. Experience an exciting diversity of peer complimentary health services intended to empower and encourage our community members. Services available at the health fair include acupuncture, massage, Trager, energy healing, personal trainers, tarot readings, safer sex, cholesterol checks and a wonderful laughter session. The Swedish Breast Center Mammography coach partners on-site for low or no-cost mammograms for income eligible individuals 40 and over (insurance is accepted also). For detailed information on the health fair program and additional peer provider services offered, follow the blog at http://lbtqhealth-ywca.blogspot.com/. To schedule a mammogram appointment, please call 206-436-8623. CAPITOL HILL PRIDE FESTIVAL 2011 On Saturday, June 25, from 11 a.m.-10 p.m., the third annual Capitol Hill Pride Festival will be held on Broadway E., between E. John and E. Roy Sts. This is a free, all-ages community festival celebrating diversity and community pride. The fiveblock festival will feature three stages and 150 booths and vendors. Attractions include live and DJ’d music, drag and dance performance, artwalk, fashion show, and a Doggie Drag Costume Contest. For a complete list of entertainment, performers, vendors, and other participants, visit capitolhillpridefestival.net. REPAUL’S DRAG RACE ALUMNI AT JULIA’S 2011 GAY PRIDE BLOCK PARTY On Saturday, June 25, from noon-10 p.m., in conjunction with the Capitol Hill Pride Festival, Julia’s on Broadway presents their 2011 Gay Pride Block Party (Broadway E. & E. Thomas St.), featuring RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 1 contestant and former “LeFaux” host, Shannel, along with Season 2 alumni, Jessica Wild, and Season 3 alumni, India Ferrah. Join host Mama Tits along with DJ Dana Dub, Seattle’s premier drag performers, and the cast of “LeFaux” and local live bands Smoking Bill, Sex Offender, and the Georgetown Orbits for a party to remember. The Seattle Squadron Softball team will host the food and drink booths, along with providing free prizes. Julia’s Gay Pride Block Party is a fundraiser to benefit the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, the Abbey of St. Joan.
PRIDE COMMUNITY WORSHIP SERVICE – “LIVE PROUD! GOD LOVES YOU!” On Saturday, June 25, at 1 p.m., at All Pilgrims Church (500 Broadway E., at E. Republican St.) a Pride Community Worship Service will be held. This year’s theme is “Live Proud! God Loves You!” With guest speaker: Rev. Diane Darling, Pastor Alki United Church of Christ. Join the Community Chorus to sing “Seasons of Love” from the musical Rent. Rehearsal at All Pilgrims at 11 a.m. Love offering to benefit Lambert House, Seattle’s resource center for LGBT youth and young adults. Sponsors include All Pilgrims Christian Church (United Church of Christ/Disciples of Christ), Emerald City Metropolitan Community Church DIGNITY/SEATTLE’S (MCC) Seattle, Prospect United Church 23RD ANNUAL of Christ, Seattle First Baptist Church, SePRIDE PANCAKE BREAKFAST On Saturday, June 25, from 8 a.m.-noon, attle Gay News, University Baptist Church,
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HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH TO BENEFIT THE “IT GETS BETTER” PROJECT On Sunday, June 26, at 8 p.m., the Crocodile Café (2200 2nd Ave.) presents the stage ARMISTEAD MAUPIN musical, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, to benAT SEATTLE PUBLIC LIBRARY efit the “It Gets Better” Project. Tickets: $15 AND W SEATTLE HOTEL plus $3 service charge. Must be 21+. www. On Saturday, June 25, from 3-4:30 p.m., hedwigseattle.com. the Seattle Public Library and Seattle PrideFest welcome best-selling author Armistead CLAIMING THE TITLE: Maupin for a special Pride Week reading GAY OLYMPICS ON TRIAL from his latest novel, Mary Ann in Autumn, ON KCTS 9 TV and a conversation on the very Gay world On the 25th anniversary of its arrival to of Tales of the City. The reading will be held the U.S. Supreme Court, the historic legal at the Seattle Public Library, Microsoft Au- battle over the “Gay Olympics” will be the ditorium (1000 Fourth Ave.) The event is subject of a documentary airing on PBS staFREE and open to the public, but tickets tions around the country beginning June 1. are required. Tickets are available at www. The documentary will be shown in the Seatbrownpapertickets.com or at 800-838- tle market on Sunday, June 26, at 10:30 p.m, 3006. Seating is not guaranteed after 2:45 on KCTS 9 TV. p.m. www.seattlepridefest.org. San Francisco filmmakers Jonathan Joiner On Saturday, June 25, from 4:30-6:30 and Robert Martin capture a rich history of p.m., attend a VIP Meet & Greet with Ar- events in the LGBT civil rights movement in mistead Maupin at the W Seattle Hotel Claiming the Title: Gay Olympics on Trial. (1112 Fourth Ave.) Enjoy complimentary The half-hour documentary is both historic hors d’ouevres and the opportunity to meet and timely – revealing the hidden conflicts and chat with Armistead Maupin. Cost is behind a lawsuit that many in the communi$15 – with a portion of the proceeds to ben- ty believed to be a risky challenge to a high efit Equal Rights Washington. Limited en- profile institution. try; pay at the door. Get $5 off entry with The film examines the lawsuit that pitted a PrideFest VIP Pass. www.seattlepridefest. Olympic athlete Tom Waddell and moveorg. ment legal activist Mary Dunlap against the U.S. Olympics Committee and its ultimate SEATTLE DYKE MARCH resolution before the U.S. Supreme Court. AND RALLY The case was lifted into the news again reOn Saturday, June 25, the Seattle Dyke cently and linked to the same-sex marriage March Rally will be held from 5-7 p.m. at fight due to the ironic role of Vaughn Walker, Seattle Central Community College Plaza who was an attorney for the Olympics Com(Broadway and E. Pine St.). Confirmed per- mittee in their fight to stop the “Gay Olymformers include: Emcee Lamar Van Dyke, pics” and in 2010 was the federal judge who Laura Robinson and Everything But Mar- declared California’s same-sex marriage riage, Seven Star Women’s Kung Fu, the ban unconstitutional. Northwest Network, and more. The Seattle Dyke March steps off at 7 p.m. to go around IN THE LIFE TV Capitol Hill and back to the Plaza. CELEBRATES GAY PRIDE MONTH For more information, visit www.seattleWITH “A MESSAGE OF HOPE” dykemarch.com. ON KCTS 9 TV On Sunday, June 26, at midnight, KCTS CONCERT FOR EQUALITY 9 TV broadcasts In the Life TV’s June epiWITH CRYSTAL BOWERSOX, sode, “A Message of Hope,” featuring a THELMA HOUSTON AND gospel choir raising spirits and awareness THE BAND BETTY about HIV/AIDS. Messengers of Hope is an On Saturday, June 25, gates at 5 p.m., Oakland-based gospel choir that uses gospel concert from 6-9:30 p.m., join Crystal Bow- music as a means to go into the church and ersox, Grammy winner Thelma Houston, the community to engage people in converand the band BETTY, for a night of amaz- sations about HIV/AIDS. African Ameriing music, drinks (including 21+ beer gar- cans have been disproportionately affected den), food and Pride on the sprawling lawns by HIV/AIDS since the epidemic’s beginof the Mural Amphitheatre (just north of the nings. Pacific Science Center and south of CenMaintaining the theme of celebrating ter House). Tickets: $20 advance at www. one’s authentic self, In the Life also features brownpapertickets.com. www.seattlepride- Andre Cooley, a Mississippi Corrections Offest.org. ficer who was fired when his employer discovered he was Gay and Bill Hendrix, Bio RED – THE BIG PRIDE PARTIES Team Leader of Dow AgroSciences in IndiOn Saturday, June 25, Seattle PrideFest ana who has civil protections from 8 a.m-5 presents two big Pride parties. p.m. that disappear after leaving the gates of The RED Men’s Pride Party with DJ Bri- his company. Their personal stories provide an Gorr will be held from 9 a.m.-5 a.m. at a look at employment discrimination and Neumos (10th Ave. and E. Pike St.) Tickets: how some corporations provide protections $20 pre-sale. www.seattlepridefest.org. to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender The RED Women’s Pride Party with DJ employees in the absence of a federally acSpinderella will be held from 10 p.m.-4 cepted Employment Non-Discrimination a.m. at Baltic Room (1207 Pine St., near Act. Melrose Ave.) Tickets: $20 pre-sale. www. For more information and to watch the epseattlepridefest.org. isode online, visit www.itlmedia.org at your convenience. SEATTLE PRIDE PARADE On Sunday, June 26, starting at 9 a.m., the INDEPENDENT LENS Seattle Pride Parade assembles on 4th Ave. PRESENTS TWO SPIRITS just south of Westlake Park. At 11 a.m. the ON KCTS 9 TV parade steps off and travels north on 4th On Monday, June 27, at 10 p.m., IndeAve.to PrideFest 2011 at Seattle Center’s pendent Lens presents Two Spirits on KCTS Fisher Pavilion and International Fountain. 9 TV. Two Spirits interweaves the story of For more information, visit www.seattle- a mother’s tragic loss of her son with a repride.org. vealing look at the largely unknown history of a time when the world wasn’t simply diSEATTLE PRIDEFEST 2011 vided into male and female and many NaOn Sunday, June 26, from noon-8 p.m., tive American cultures held places of honor PrideFest 2011 gears up at Seattle Center’s for people of integrated genders. Powerful Fisher Pavilion and International Foun- and moving, Lydia Nibley’s Two Spirits extain following the parade. Enjoy 3 stages, plores the life and brutal death of Fred Marnational and local artists, community non- tinez and the ancient Native American Twoprofit booths, food and commercial ven- Spirit tradition. dors, beer gardens. The rainbow flag will fly (A free community pre-screening of Two atop the Space Needle again and the Inter- Spirits will be held on Thursday, June 16, national Fountain dance scene will rock. at 6 p.m., at the Washington State History For more information, visit www.seattle- Museum in Tacoma, and on Saturday, June pridefest.org or e-mail info@seattlepridef- 18, at 2 p.m., at the Frye Art Museum in Seest.org. attle.) University Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), University District Ecumenical Parish, and University Lutheran Church. For more information, visit www.mccseattle.org
June 3, 2011
Seattle Gay News 23
New PEPFAR guidelines focus on MSM by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer The Office of the U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator (OGAC) has released new guidelines for PEPFAR (the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief), a $48 billion dollar program started by then-President George W. Bush. While PEPFAR provides needed funding for HIV/AIDS relief programs in 15 African countries, it has been criticized for funneling millions of dollars to church-run organizations promoting abstinence as a prevention strategy. In Uganda alone, $285 million was spent in 2009 on abstinence education. At the same time, PEPFAR as conceived by Bush provided no assistance to programs addressing the needs of men who have sex with men (MSM). PEPFAR has also had to operate under a congressionally mandated pledge that prohibits funding from going to organizations assisting sex workers. In contrast, the new Technical Guidance on Combination HIV Prevention specifically addresses the MSM population and calls for measures to address human rights, legal barriers, and homophobia in HIV response for MSM. The new guidelines define a set of six core elements to be used as part of a comprehensive package of HIV prevention services for MSM, including community-based outreach, condom and lubricant distribution,
HIV counseling and testing, linkages to care and treatment, targeted information, and screening and treatment for sexually transmitted infections. The document also includes a number of recommendations for optimizing HIV prevention for MSM, such as ensuring confidentiality, and concludes by enumerating a set of activities that PEPFAR will support through budgets in individual countries. The new guidelines also emphasize the importance of “involving MSM” in the planning, implementation, and leadership of HIV prevention efforts for MSM, noting that the strengths and networks of local MSM are an indispensable resource for HIV prevention. The new PEPFAR guidelines more accurately reflect HIV/AIDS incidence and the actual needs of affected communities. MSM in the global south are, on average, 19 times more likely to be infected with HIV than the general population, with infection rates among MSM now surpassing 30% in countries like Jamaica and Thailand. More than half of MSM around the world are without access to life-saving services like HIV education, testing, and treatment. MSM are considered by national AIDS officials in countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe to be a “most at-risk population” because, as same-sex sexual acts are illegal there, no policies or services targeting MSM for HIV interventions are in place. In some countries, provision of services
for MSM populations have been specifically ruled out by governments, whereas in others they are only covertly supported as part of national HIV/AIDS programs. “We are very happy to see that OGAC has finally issued a guidance document for MSM,” said Dr. George Ayala, executive officer of the Global Forum on MSM & HIV (MSMGF). Ayala said the MSMGF has been advocating for updated guidelines since 2009, bringing a delegation of MSMGF Steering Committee members from Africa to Washington to discuss the necessity of technical guidance as recently as May 17. “With the guidance now available, we will be looking closely at its implementation and how MSM prevention programs are funded,” Ayala added.
Ayala was also critical of some aspects of the new guidelines, however, suggesting they don’t go far enough in supporting local MSM organizations. “If PEPFAR is serious about addressing barriers like stigma and criminalization, a clear set of steps must be offered for Country Missions to tackle these difficult challenges,” said Dr. Ayala. “Any such strategy must include a plan to train front-line service providers and implementers about these issues.” However, the new document focuses on “building the capacity” of local MSM organizations rather than explicitly recommending the use of PEPFAR funds to support them, Ayala said. In many PEPFAR countries, these groups have been the only organizations implementing programs for this population since the epidemic began. The new guidelines may also face opposition from conservative Republicans in Congress, who could balk at funding MSM programs when they review PEPFAR’s budget. In 2008, Democrats seeking to expand PEPFAR funding had to agree to allocate at least half the PEPFAR budget to treatment of existing cases – as opposed to prevention of future infections, which would have involved distribution of condoms and safer sex education.
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24 Seattle Gay News
June 3, 2011
Celebrating 38 Years!
U.S. adults estimate that 25% of population is Gay
Lesbians, be it in their personal lives or through entertainment or other means. It is also noteworthy that demographics appear in most cases to be more predictive of views in this matter than are political or ideological leanings. This suggests Americans’ estimates are based more on who they are – and perhaps whom they know – than on their worldview. Gallup also previously found
those who personally know someone Gay or Lesbian to be more accepting on related issues. “Combined with Americans’ record support for legal Gay relations and same-sex marriage, it is clear that America’s Gay population – no matter the size – is becoming a larger part of America’s mainstream consciousness.”
Chris Colfer on Piers Morgan courtesy fanpop
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor U.S. adults, on average, estimate that 25% of Americans are Gay or Lesbian. More specifically, over half of Americans (52%) estimate that at least one in five Americans are Gay or Lesbian, including 35% who estimate that more than one in four are. Thirty percent put the figure at less than 15%. The findings, from a Gallup poll conducted May 5-8, mark the second time Gallup has asked Americans to estimate the Gay population. In 2002, Gallup used two separate questions to ask Americans to estimate the percentage of Gay men and Lesbians. At that time, Americans estimated that 21% of men were Gay and that 22% of women were Lesbian. Twice as many did not offer an opinion as do now. “There is little reliable evidence about what percentage of the U.S. population is in reality Gay or Lesbian, due to few representative surveys asking about sexual orientation, complexities surrounding the groups and definitions involved, and the probability that some Gay and Lesbian individuals may not choose to identify themselves as such,” said Gallup officials. Last month, demographer Gary Gates released a review of population-based surveys on the topic, estimating that 3.5% of adults in the United States identify as Lesbian, Gay, or Bisexual, with Bisexuals making up a slight majority of that figure. Gates also disputes the well-circulated statistic that “10% of the males are more or less exclusively homosexual.” “Americans’ current collective estimate – which is substantially higher than Gates suggests – is likely driven more by percep-
tions and exposure than by scientific measurement or reality,” said Gallup officials. Gallup previously found that a majority of Americans personally know someone who is Gay or Lesbian, though Gallup did not ask Americans how many Gay or Lesbian individuals they know, or whether they know more individuals now than they did before. “Additionally, Americans tend to have difficulty estimating percentages of population groups whose numbers are more widely known,” said Gallup officials. A decade ago, Gallup found Americans estimating much larger U.S. black and Hispanic populations than what the U.S. Census Bureau reported for those groups. Americans with lower incomes and less education give the highest estimates, on average, of the U.S. Gay and Lesbian population, and far higher estimates than those with higher incomes and more education. Americans aged 18 to 29 give a higher average estimate than older Americans, and women give a far higher average estimate than men. Democrats, liberals, and those who say they are socially liberal are also more likely to give higher estimates than those at the other end of the spectrum. However, the differences by political or ideological leanings are in most cases not as wide as those seen by demographic groups, Gallup found. The implications? According to Gallup officials, “Americans perceive that there is a large U.S. Gay population – one far larger than is likely reality. Perhaps more informative than the exact figure Americans give is the trend that more Americans now than in 2002 feel they have enough information to offer an estimate. This suggests Americans have had even more exposure to Gays and
Chris Colfer
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Chris Colfer, who plays openly Gay high school student Kurt Hummel on the hit musical drama Glee, recently appeared on CNN’s Piers Morgan Tonight. On the show, the actor, who is openly Gay in real life, opened up about his past experience with bullies. When asked by Pierce if he had a message for all the people who bullied him when he was in school, Colfer answered, “There’s a diplomatic answer I could give.”
But then, Colfer got real. “Those individuals, it’s almost like you want to say ‘Suck it!’ to them right there. I should have said that. Like, given names and social security numbers.” Instead, Colfer opted to say, “I hated them all equally.” Colfer also opened up about his personal feelings from those days. “It’s embarrassing and it’s uncalled for,” he concluded, “especially when they don’t know you and you don’t know them … it was heart-wrenching.”
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June 3, 2011
Seattle Gay News 25
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Gay Turkish soccer ref sues to get his job back by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer A Turkish soccer referee who says he was outed, fired from his job, and subjected to death threats because he is Gay sued to be reinstated on May 31 in an Istanbul court. Halil Ibrahim Dincdag accused the Turkish Football Federation of passing documents to the media showing that he was exempted from Turkey’s compulsory military service because of his sexual orientation. Dincdag, who served as referee for 14 years in Turkey’s second-tier league, told the court that his right to work and to privacy had been violated, and demanded his job back, along with 110,000 Turkish lira ($69,000) compensation. “I have been unable to find a job since my name hit the headlines. I have received threats, and have lost hope of earning my own living,” Dincdag told Reuters reporters after the hearing. “The real reason behind the federation’s decision is my sexual orientation,” Dincdag added. The court hearing was adjourned until
Halil Ibrahim Dincdag
October 20. The Turkish football federation declined to comment but has said that referees must have completed military service or have been exempted for reasons unrelated to health. In the past, they alleged that Dincdag was fired for poor performance, and not for his sexual orientation. The case is being closely watched by human rights groups and has attracted considerable public attention in Turkey, where Gay men are barred from military service. Many Turkish men hide their sexuality and complete military service due to family and social pressures. Soon after he was fired in 2009, Dincdag went on Turkish television to discuss his sexual orientation. “The crowds shout ‘faggot’ at referees whose decisions they don’t like,” Mr. Dincdag said. “Well, here I am.” His openness brought him a wave of public support. Three-quarters of the 80 referees in Dincdag’s hometown of Trabzon phoned to congratulate him.
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June 3, 2011
Celebrating 38 Years!
Thirty thousand people signed a petition launched by Turkey’s most influential newspaper backing his campaign to get rehired. One columnist even compared him to Harvey Milk. Turkish legislators also brought his case to parliament. Most importantly for Dincdag, his very religious family, from whom he kept his sexuality secret, stood behind him. “[The football federation] thought I was an ant that they could crush, they thought I would run away and hide in a corner,” Dincdag said. “But they have destroyed my life and I will fight them to the end. The day the press started writing about me, I went into a coma, and the day I appeared on TV, I died. Thirty-three years of my life had disappeared. Since then, I have been trying to resurrect myself.” Turkey is a candidate for admission to the European Union, but its record of human rights violations, including discrimination against its LGBT population, has been an obstacle to its entry. “For years, the European Union has been talking about the importance of legislation on sexual discrimination in the workplace. So far Turkey has not taken one step forward,” according to Ali Erol, a spokesman for KAOS-GL, an Ankara-based Gay and Lesbian rights group. In a May report, Human Rights Watch urged Turkey to change its in order laws to protect LGBT people from harassment and violence. According to the report, Gay men and Transgender people are particularly at risk for violent assault and murder.
vided by Mr. Gay Tacoma 2011 Rychard Le Sabre, Empress Katrina Duall, and the Mukana Marima Band of Olympia. Community organizations such as MetMeds Pharmacy, Mpowerment Olympia, Equal Rights Washington, and the Timberland Regional Library provided information booths about their services and support programs. The GSA also provided fresh-popped popcorn, spun cotton candy, and Drumstick ice cream bars to snack on – after all, a Pride celebration is nothing without that “good ol’ schoolgirl” feeling. Also, had you forgotten your rainbow paraphernalia, the GSA offered free T-shirt tie-dyeing. The highlight of the event was the annual crowning of Mr. & Ms. Gay Lewis County. This year’s recipients are Tyler Kershaw and Karen Ermert. These titleholders become the face of the Centralia GSA for the year and are responsible for helping establish ties in the community with businesses and other locally supportive groups. The GSA plans to make things bigger and better in the future by possibly moving the Pride celebration to a weekend, and to a more public location. We all look forward to seeing what the future has in store for the GLBT community of Lewis County. The overwhelming ratio of heterosexual supporters to community members was interesting and inspiring – a sign to me that there is a lot of good and pos-
itive energy brewing, giving us all hope that more – we have to address that. “It’s about security for people,” McDerwhere there are grey clouds, you will also mott added. “Healthcare, knowing that you find rainbows! can get that – in this economy it’s very, very important. Democracy is about trying to deal with inequities when you find them.” McDermott also stressed that the measure continued from cover will benefit businesses by making it more attractive for them to offer domestic partner therefore taxable, while the same benefits benefits to LGBT employees. for opposite-sex married spouses are not “Companies want the best employees,” he subject to income taxes. said. “They don’t have to penalize someone Speaking to SGN by phone during a break who has a domestic partner. [The Tax Eqin committee hearings on June 2, McDer- uity Bill] makes it easier for them to get and mott said he is optimistic that the bill “can keep good people.” get through this session.” A companion bill is due to be introduced “We do have six Republicans on this bill,” in the Senate. McDermott predicted that McDermott said. “Companies in their dis- “ultimately it will be part of a much larger trict are asking for this. Sometimes they bill. I can’t say for sure yet, but that’s what think ‘Well, that’s for someone else’s con- my long legislative experience tells me.” stituency,’ but this will help companies right McDermott explained that the complex in their districts.” negotiations on taxes and the federal debt While tax benefits for businesses that of- will produce an all-inclusive compromise fer health coverage to domestic partners will bill that, he believes, will include his proappeal to some Republicans, eliminating the posal. tax liability on domestic partner health care “I’m in a hearing now,” he said. “We’re will benefit same-sex couples in states like having a hearing in [the] Ways and Means Washington where they can’t legally marry. [Committee] on a tax bill. So the Republi“It’s just fairness,” McDermott told SGN. cans have legislation to cut corporate taxes “If I can get my wife covered – if I work for 25%. OK. If they want that, then part of the Starbucks, for example – but an employee deal can be this bill.” with a domestic partner has to pay $1,000
tax equity
lewis county continued from cover
GSA members John Camenzind and Tygh Stephens worked the microphones and kept the crowd engaged. Entertainment was pro-
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June 3, 2011
Seattle Gay News 27
tobacco
continued from cover quiring businesses and organizations to add a policy into their by-laws; a mandate that we believe flies in the face of what Pride is all about.” Pride is about individualism and celebrating who we are, said King, not about changing the core of organizations to suit what someone else thinks they should be. “This is what the Pride movement has been about from the beginning,” he said. King set about telling the members of OutVentures in an email, “The OutVentures leadership feels that an outside organization should not be allowed to dictate to us what policies we do or do not have, and it is not our place to tell our members what they should or should not be doing. So, we are going to have our booth at the Broadway Festival on Saturday the 25th, not the PrideFest on Sunday the 26th.” The email continued, “Thank you for understanding that we don’t take this action lightly and hope you understand how difficult it is for us to break our long-standing relationship with the official pride celebration. OutVentures has been a loyal part of Seattle’s Gay community for almost 10 years. We are saddened to think that many organizations probably felt trapped and simply capitulated to this request … which in the long run makes [the] policy, and its intent, meaningless. Your OutVentures leadership has chosen NOT to capitulate to
this request. It is my sincere hope that we in place, to commit to not taking Big Tocan rejoin the Seattle Center Pride celebra- bacco’s money, and to ensure that every ortion next year.” ganization has resources in place to support those who may want to quit smoking.” WHAT’S THE PROBLEM? “We are not anti-smoking,” he said. “We Tobacco use is the leading cause of death are for limiting the undue influence of monin King County, claiming 7,600 lives per ey from tobacco companies and in support year and costing the state nearly $2 billion of access to resources for all organizations in health care annually. Each Washington [that] choose to be a part of the festival.” household has an added tax burden of $625 For organizations such as OutVentures, every year for tobacco-related health care, that do not have a policy in place, Orion says even if nobody in the household smokes. they advised them on how to proceed. A strong foundation of effective tobacco “If you don’t already have a tobacco polpolicies has led to a large drop in overall to- icy in place, it takes just a minute to work bacco use and reduced secondhand smoke with Gay City to develop one,” wrote Orion exposure. on the PrideFest’s official website, www.seHowever, said PrideFest officials, it’s attlepridefest.org. “It’s a small step, and is clear that these wins are not evenly distrib- just another way PrideFest and Gay City are uted among all population groups. For ex- working together to help make our commuample, King County has huge disparities in nity healthier.” smoking prevalence by race and ethnicity, Gay City’s staff did make contact with income, sexual orientation, and geographic OutVentures. They wrote to King in an area. In fact, LGBT people show some of email, “For an organization like yours, it the highest smoking prevalence rates of all could be a simple referral statement saying disproportionately affected populations – that you will refer members to the [Tobacwe are twice as likely to smoke as the gen- co] Quitline if they would like to stop smokeral public. ing. Something like this: It is the policy of Festival director Egan Orion said he stands OutVentures to provide members seeking in solidarity with Gay City. “We at PrideF- smoking-cessation services with a referral est strongly believe in a libertarian approach to 1-800-QUIT-NOW and www.quitline. to government and society, and believe that com.” there is undue influence on LGBT people King declined the offer. that directly impacts our health with regards to tobacco in particular,” he said. “We’ve “POLICY REQUIREMENT partnered with Gay City Health Project to CLEARLY SPELLED OUT” make sure every vendor, sponsor, and nonPrideFest officials say they refuse to shy profit at PrideFest 2011 has a tobacco policy away from the issue. In fact, Orion says he welcomes it. “Through the PrideFest website, the only place for vendors to book their booth space, this policy requirement was clearly spelled out from the start, and it was indicated that Gay City Health Project would work with participating vendors to help confirm or draft tobacco policies appropriate for their organizations,” he pointed out. One Degree Events rents space to nonprofit organizations (which have been the primary sources of complaint so far) at below the actual cost because they provide essential services to the community. “To be a vendor at a public event is never a right – there are always vendor requirements,” said Orion. “The fact that our requirements for PrideFest 2011 have to do with support of LGBT health and wellness should come as no surprise with our longstanding partnership with Gay City Health Project.” Organizations and businesses that rent space at PrideFest have direct access to the LGBT community, and either serve or want business from the community. In exchange for the privilege of that access, said Orion, “all we were asking for this year was for organizations to work with Gay City to draft a tobacco policy that made sense for that organization.” It could be as simple as making a pledge to not take money from big tobacco companies and providing employees and/or volunteers with the number for the Tobacco Quitline, he said. “For some organizations, like the ACLU, there was initial concern about the requirement, but once they learned what we were
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looking for, it was no big deal and they worked with Gay City to either provide their policy or put together something for their organization,” continued Orion. “In the case of other organizations, like PFLAG or Equal Rights Washington, they were totally on-board with the policy commitment but hadn’t put it into their organization’s policies just yet, and were grateful for the help.” To qualify the requirements, this is not about telling individuals what they can or cannot do, he said. “For One Degree Events … this has always been about limiting the influence of Big Tobacco and providing resources to those who want to quit. The higher rates of smoking in the LGBT community are the result of the target marketing by tobacco companies and cultural influences within the community. This has a direct effect on the long-term health of our community, and if we can in some small way through policy changes help the health of those in our community, then we’re all in, and anybody who serves our community should have a role in this process too.” “I would think that these non-profits would be enthusiastic about this, particular these sports/outdoors organizations, but as an event organizer, you can’t dictate enthusiasm,” concluded Orion. “We can, and have, drafted requirements for PrideFest 2011, and we think that it will ultimately have a positive role in the conversation on tobacco policy and ultimately the health of our community.” THE RESULT As a presenting sponsor of PrideFest 2011, Gay City’s goal is to have 100% of this year’s vendors enact an effective Tobacco Prevention and Control Policy. “This collaborative effort toward promoting the health of the LGBT community will be publicized through a variety of media leading up to, and during, the event,” said Gay City officials. “Your business or organization will be showcased as a supporter of LGBT pride, community, and health!” Still, King and OutVentures say they aren’t buying it. “In general, we support the work of Gay City, but simply disagree with their methods on this particular point,” said King. “Our organizations have never crossed paths before and most likely never will again, and for them to require us to change our by-laws ‘for all time’ for this one brief interaction seems unreasonable.” “I’m forced to wonder,” he continued, “what if this was not a requirement? How much participation would they have had? If vendors show up at PrideFest without turning in a policy, will they be turned away? I wonder how they can claim this is purely for ‘health and wellness’ when they don’t require a policy against alcoholism – which is rampant in the Gay community. Is it because their King County funding is only for tobacco?” “It’s pretty clear,” Fred Swanson, executive director for Gay City, told Seattle Gay News. “We’re not asking anyone to change their charters. We are just asking them to make a policy that supports Queer people who want to quit.”
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