Celebrating 40 Years!
Issue 47 Volume 41
FRIDAY November 22, 2013 FREE! 25¢ in bookstores & newsstands
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Seattle Gay News SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY
Illinois governor signs marriage law
Bishop holds exorcism to cleanse state of LGBT ‘demons’ M. Spencer Green
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed his state’s marriage equality bill into law on November 20, while thousands of supporters cheered and the Roman Catholic bishop of Springfield held a
Abraham Lincoln of Illinois said that our nation was conceived in liberty. And he said it’s dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal, and that’s really what we’re celebrating today,” Quinn said. “It’s a triumph of democracy.” The signing capped a protracted
“In the very beginning of the Gettysburg Address, President Abraham Lincoln of Illinois said that our nation was conceived in liberty. And he said it’s dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal, and that’s really what we’re celebrating today.”
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn holds up the Illinois marriage equality bill after signing it into law.
formal exorcism to drive Gay demons out of the state. Quinn signed the law on a desk once used by Abraham Lincoln, and in his speech at the signing ceremony, held at the University of Illinois’ Chicago campus, he referenced Lincoln’s signature speech. “In the very beginning of the Gettysburg Address, President
campaign for votes in the state House of Representatives after the Illinois Senate passed the measure on Valentine’s Day. House sponsors failed to come up with the votes to pass the bill during the regular session, and had to delay the start of the special session for see illinois page 16
LGBT trailblazers honored Queer Youth Space Obama awards Medal of Freedom to Bayard Rustin, Sally Ride AP Photo
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
Group appeals to community to Civil rights leader Bayard Rus- help keep Pike Street facility open
tin and astronaut Sally Ride were among the 16 Americans honored with the Medal of Freedom in a White House ceremony led by President Obama on November 20. Rustin – an openly Gay man and a communist in an era when being either one earned you a prison term – was the chief organizer behind the 1963 March on Washington. In his later life, he became an outspoken advocate for LGBT rights. According to the White House press release, Rustin was honored for his work as “an unyielding activist for civil rights, dignity, and equality for all. An advisor to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., he promoted nonviolent resistance, participated in one of the first Freedom Rides, organized the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, and fought tirelessly for marginalized communities at home and abroad. As an openly Gay African American, Mr. Rustin stood at the intersection of several of the fights for equal rights.” Bayard Rustin in 1970
faces funding crisis
see honored page 16
struggles in fundraising to keep their physical space open. As a result, the space faces the possibility Queer Youth Space (QYS), a of closure as early as December if, community organization for youth they say, “circumstances do not led by youth, needs your help to change.” survive. “As an organization committed QYS officials report that they have recently experienced serious see qys page 5 by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor
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Seattle Gay News
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Celebrating 40 Years!
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op-ed
Why LGBTs should help Obamacare succeed
Rev. Barbara Allen, Eric Andrews-Katz, Madelyn Arnold, Maggie Bloodstone, Beau Burriola, Jessica Davis, Ron Anders, Jessica Price, Milton W. Hamlin, Scott Wittet, Nevin Jefferson, Jason A. Miller, Liz Meyer, Rod Parke, Don Paulson, Scott Rice, Leslie Robinson, Richard Kennedy, Rex Wockner
Classifieds Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Photographers
Nate Gowdy, Joseph P. Herron, Shaun Knittel, James Whitely National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 Website Designer Barry Thorsness/Digital Team Works Seattle Gay News is published weekly by Frogs and Ink, Inc. © 2013, Frogs and Ink, Inc., all rights reserved. Reprints by permission.
Publication of names, photographs or likenesses of any person, organization, event or business in this publication cannot be taken as any indication of the sexual orientation of the person, organization, event or business. Opinions expressed in bylined articles, columns, and letters are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff or management of this paper. Seattle Gay News welcomes unsolicited material, including letters to the editor, but reserves the right to edit or reject material. All rights revert to authors upon publication. We assume no liability for loss or damage of materials, solicited or not. We invite feedback, please write. And please play safe. It is our policy that no money shall be refunded if you choose to cancel your subscription or ad. However, credit towards any size ad will be given for the balance owed. No exceptions.
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
by Paul Kawata Special to the SGN Three years ago, I asked, “Are you ready?” With the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), I understood that our organizations and clients were facing radical change. Little did I know the extent of this change. In addition to getting ready for ACA implementation, in the last two years we’ve also witnessed a scientific revolution, providing us a pathway to end the epidemic and hope for a cure. I moved from asking “Are you ready?” to discussing ways that we can further the vision of ending the HIV/ AIDS epidemic in America. The latest domestic epidemiological profile of this disease in America showed the overwhelming impact this epidemic continues to have on marginalized populations, from IV drug users and sex workers to women of color and Gay men – especially young, Black, Gay men. These same popu-
November 22, 2013
ance plans under the federal or state exchanges – far short of the number needed to sustain them. But while some opponents of the ACA use this fact to claim that the law is fundamentally flawed, they ignore the more than one million Americans who have signed up to compare insurance plans via the state and federal exchanges. While many of them have not yet selected a plan, it is clear that the public has an appetite for affordable, quality coverage. It is our job to work with the administration and our local partners to ensure that they and our clients can access it. CRUCIAL FOR HIV CARE For the HIV/AIDS community, it’s especially important to understand and educate our clients about the full range of benefits that come with specific plans. We’ve seen some state essential health benefits packages that do not cover all the drugs necessary to support the lives and health of people living with HIV. Some plans lack a “grandfather” clause, meaning they might not cover a particular drug regimen even if you have already successfully reached viral suppression on that regimen. Additionally, some insurance companies still have not disclosed specifics about the HIV medications they will cover. While we continue to work with our coalition partners to address these issues, it is important that the community remain engaged and continue to review plans and policies closely before selecting them. The Federal AIDS Policy Partnership and the HIV Health Care Access Working Group have been doing fantastic work on this front. Please go to www.hivhealthreform.org and get on their listserves for updates. There’s no doubt that it has been a rough month and a half since Obamacare’s initial rollout. But we must remember that our nation spent decades trying to pass large-scale health care reform, and we can’t expect it to be perfect or address all the challenges that our constituents face on day one. We’re here for the long haul and will continue to work to address any shortfalls or gaps in the law. Nobody said transforming health care in America was going to be easy. We are being asked to transform our systems of HIV care while simultaneously facing budget cuts and a shifting prevention paradigm. But this is important work, essential to ending the AIDS epidemic. Successful implementation of the Affordable Care Act is central to that vision.
lations are also the most likely to lack access to affordable insurance coverage. According to CDC data: • There were 47,300 new HIV infections in the U.S. in 2010; • Approximately 1.1 million people are living with HIV in the U.S.; • Since the beginning of the domestic epidemic, 658,992 people have died, including more than 16,000 in 2010; • 18% of Americans living with HIV are unaware of their status; and • Only 25% of Americans living with HIV/AIDS are virally suppressed. We are nowhere close to hitting the necessary targets for any of our highly impacted populations. That’s why it is so important that we continue to work to successfully implement the ACA. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) estimates that as many as 140,000 Americans living with HIV currently being served by the Ryan White Program will be newly eligible for private or public health insurance under the Affordable Care Act. That’s a lot of people we need to enroll. And as we’ve seen, the rollout of the exchanges has been rocky so far. Paul Kawata is the executive director of As of last week, only about 160,000 people have signed up for private insur- the National Minority AIDS Council.
Celebrating 40 Years!
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Local news Seattle activist named to POZ 100
Magazine honors peer advocate Kelly Hill on list of ‘unsung heroes’ by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor POZ magazine, an award-winning print and online resource for people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, this week announced the fourth annual POZ 100. This year, POZ asked individuals and organizations to nominate an HIV-positive person in their community who is an unsung hero in the fight against AIDS. For the first time, the list is made up completely of people living with the virus. The list includes individuals of all ages, ethnicities, genders and sexual orientations from across the United States and Puerto Rico, at organizations large and small. It comprises a variety of careers, from bloggers and activists to doctors and educators, and spans across many diverse populations affected by the virus. Local activist Kelly Hill of Babes Network–YWCA made the list, which is posted online at www.poz.com/100. “The individuals on this year’s list may not consider themselves to be heroes, but we do,” said Oriol Gutierrez, POZ’s editor-
in-chief. “Each person – in his or her own unique way – is taking a brave stand against the virus. They are fighting back. From people who volunteer for AIDS service organizations or work as policy advocates, to those who act as educators to promote prevention and treatment, this list represents an incredibly diverse spectrum of people living with HIV and making a difference on the front lines in their communities,” Gutierrez said. The people spotlighted on this year’s POZ 100 will inspire readers with their passion to effect change in the world. By telling their stories, POZ hopes the public at large will better understand that the fight against HIV/ AIDS continues. “Because they are living with the virus themselves, these individuals have a unique understanding of what needs to be done and how best to do it,” Gutierrez continued. “They know what it’s like to be newly diagnosed and how it feels to deal with HIVrelated stigma and discrimination. They understand the challenges of accessing care, treatment, and support. By sharing their stories, they are not only inspiring others living
qys
continued from cover to transparency, we believe that the time has come for us to be fully transparent about Queer Youth Space’s current situation,” QYS said in a media release this week. “All of us are working tirelessly to keep things running as smoothly as we can, but we are in desperate need of help from you, the community, so that we can continue to provide the same quality of resources, programming, and space that we have been able to provide over the past year.” According to the media release, “The idea of an organization led entirely by young people and supported by adults is a radical one,” and as the word “radical” means “at the root,” a radical approach to a problem, QYS says, “is one that gets to the root of the problem itself.” YOUTH IN CHARGE QYS leadership feels that there is no better way to attack the roots of heterosexism, cis-sexism, ageism, racism, classism, and sexism than by placing the organization (the very young people who are affected by these and other forms of oppression) in the “leadership of our organization and at the forefront of our own movement. We are constituent-led, and this is our greatest strength.” However, say officials, being young people at the intersections of different oppressed identities, they feel QYS youth face many struggles and difficulties. “As a youth-led organization in an adult-led world, our credit, ability, and efficacy, already under question, are now being further questioned as a result of this current situation. Queer Youth Space is much more than just our physical space, but it is through our physical space that we are able to find greater legitimacy for ourselves in a world and society that in many respects rests on the idea of physical space itself.” Simply put – QYS needs your money. ThreeWings, more commonly known as Queer Youth Space, is a youth-led, adult-
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Kelly Hill
with the virus but also empowering them- POZ is published by Smart + Strong, which selves and the entire HIV community.” publishes health-focused magazines and websites that empower and inspire. In adABOUT POZ dition to POZ, the company’s award-winOffering unparalleled editorial excellence ning brands include AIDSmeds.com, Real since 1994, POZ and POZ.com are identi- Health magazine and RealHealthMag.com, fied by their readers as their most trusted Tu Salud magazine and TuSaludMag.com, sources of information about the disease. SaneMag.com, and HepMag.com.
word events, dance parties, anti-oppression and health/wellness trainings and workshops, subject-based tutoring, and identitybased discussion and support groups. “It is through the support that we have received from the community, both in the form of donated time and donated money, that Queer Youth Space has been the success that it has been,” say officials. In the single year that QYS has had a physical space, the center has provided a great variety of programs, trainings, workshops, and events for youth. However, QYS leadership says that the most imporMEETING CRITICAL NEEDS ThreeWings was born out of the Mutiny, tant thing they provide to youth through the a visionary, youth-led forum held at Seattle space is greater safety. “We aim to maintain Central Community College in early 2010, a space that is inclusive, supportive, and at which more than 150 young people from all over the Seattle metropolitan area engaged each other about what their needs as young Queer people were and what could be done to meet them. At the Mutiny, two needs were identified: (1) community organizing that is youthTHANKS FOR HIV COVERAGE positive and youth-led, and (2) a cultural I would like to compliment Mike Andrew gathering space created by and for Queer youth. This event catalyzed a vision for a on his recent article on HIV care (SGN, Nov. cultural arts center led by queer youth that 15). It was hopeful, sensible, and a message that most Gay men with HIV need to hear would fulfill both of these needs. With the successful award of a $100,000 and think about. I would like to point out Seattle Neighborhood Matching Fund in that HPV is not mentioned. Most, if not all 2010, ThreeWings was able to secure a HIV+ as well as HIV- patients are unaware dedicated physical space in the Capitol Hill of the risks of the HPV virus because they neighborhood of Seattle at 911 E. Pike St., are asymptomatic until a rectal or orophaSuite 202. With community and organiza- ryngeal cancer is diagnosed. Furthermore, tional support, this physical space was final- few health-care providers in HIV care offer ly opened to the public in November 2012. screening or vaccination. Gardasil vaccine is controversial and unLed by a staff and volunteer base comprised entirely of young folks from the com- der study; however, there is anecdotal evimunity and supported by a board of direc- dence that it is effective in slowing or pretors that also consists of youth and young venting cancer cells from progressing. adults, Queer Youth Space seeks to provide Scott Brown Seattle’s young Queer community with an Seattle all-ages, radically inclusive space to exist and share common experiences and strugWHY ARE WE DIFFERENT? gles. Why are Americans so anti-taxation even ThreeWings/Queer Youth Space has been successful in partnering with numerous lo- when taxes are necessary for a common cal advocacy organizations to provide a va- good like health care or fixing infrastrucriety of programs and services. Successful ture? I think it goes back to the American programs have included poetry and spoken- Revolution, which was more about not pay-
supported nonprofit organization that seeks to empower Queer youth to overcome heterosexism and ageism, as well as racism, classism, cis-sexism and all other oppressions that they face. ThreeWings seeks to do so through a holistic, three-pronged approach, consisting of three areas of focus: (a) cultural arts and activism, (b) wellness, and (c) research and education. ThreeWings aims to sustain alternatives to more traditional, top-down models of community organizing.
November 22, 2013
loving, a haven in which all youth can bring their full and authentic selves forward.” “We attribute our accomplishments to your support,” said the organization, “Your support ensures that fundamental community organizing and coalition building continues. We are for you, by you.” HOW TO DONATE If you would like to help QYS reach their goal of $3,500, you can donate through its GoFundMe page: http://www.gofundme. com/5bz6wg. As of press time, QYS has raised over $2,600 from 49 donors in four days. You can also donate directly at the QYS website, www.queeryouthspace.org.
ing taxes than wanting to create a country in which all are treated equally and fairly. This, I believe, explains why this country was so slow to end slavery and expand voting rights to women, the continuing fights over the years to expand rights to Blacks after their release from slavery, and the fights by other minorities such as Gays to gain basic human rights. It explains why countries such as Canada and many in Europe have provided health care and other social benefits to all their citizens, while America is still opposed and divided. It explains why we have more of our citizens in jail and a high number of deaths from gunshots. It explains why deep down most Americans could not care less about any other human life or suffering other than there own. The death of a 19-year-old in Michigan seeking help after an accident should outrage any decent human being, as have hundreds of other senseless deaths in just the past several years. George Whitaker Bellevue
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nate goedy / seattle gay news
Murray announces transition plans
Mayor-elect seeks support for his agenda from a broad range of interests by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Seattle mayor-elect Ed Murray is moving rapidly to transition to a new city administration. On November 19, he announced that he would meet with every city department head “over the next several weeks.” Days earlier, he revealed the complete 43-person transition team that will advise him on how to move his agenda. Outgoing Mayor Mike McGinn began his term four years ago by demoting or reassigning department heads – in some cases reportedly without even meeting with them first. One alleged victim of McGinn’s discourtesy, former Finance Director Dwight Dively, is co-chair of Murray’s transition committee and may have advised the mayor-elect on the niceties of dealing with city officials. CITY ‘CAN BE A MODEL’ While Murray noted that he “respect[s] the current department heads’ professionalism and value[s] their public service in what are, by any account, very demanding positions in service of the people of Seattle,” he left no doubt that he expects the city government to unite around his agenda and be prepared to carry it out.
“It’s important to me that all department heads reporting to the mayor’s office administer their respective agencies with a high standard for excellence in support of my priorities and this basic vision,” he said in his November 19 statement. “I believe that Seattle can be a model for how government can function, and, as with any new administration, there will surely be changes in personnel to create the overall team that I can have confidence will help make that happen.” On November 14, Murray revealed the names of his transition committee, saying he hoped it would “look like Seattle.” “No transition team can fully capture the breadth of Seattle’s diversity, but this team comes close,” Murray said in his announcement. “This is what inclusiveness and collaboration look like.” DIVERSE VIEWPOINTS Included in Murray’s team is one of his opponent’s campaign co-chairs, El Centro de la Raza Executive Director Estela Ortega. Also on the list are former King County Executive and Deputy HUD Secretary Ron Sims, an early Murray endorser, and Duwamish tribal chair Cecile Hansen. Five prominent labor leaders, the CEO of the Downtown Association, local environmentalists, and representatives of im-
Lyft Seattle asks supporters to petition City Council Ridesharing service hopes to avoid being regulated as ‘for-hire’
by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Lyft, a mobile-phone-based ridesharing service, is asking its passengers to petition Seattle City Council members to let them know they want to keep this option available in the city. Lyft is popular among Gays. I use it all the time, my friends use it, and some of them are even Lyft drivers. They make good money, don’t complain about their customers, and get to choose which hours they work. In contrast, I can’t stand Yellow Cab, have been thrown out of an Orange Cab literally for no reason (the driver was very odd), and the green cabs, whatever they’re called, are never available when I need a taxi. So when I discovered Lyft, I was, and remain, happy
with their service. But the City Council is considering new regulations for peer-to-peer transportation, and these new laws could hurt Lyft and other ridesharing platforms. So Lyft is asking that you go to http://campaigns.peers.org/ petitions/tell-seattle-council-members-toget-on-board-with-ridesharing, and sign the petition that states you want Lyft – and other rideshares like it – to stay on the road. But if the City of Seattle has its way, there won’t be anymore “Lyfts” for anyone. THE TRADEMARK MUSTACHE Lyft cars are easy to spot – they’re the ones adorned with hot pink mustaches, picking up people who hail them using a smartphone. Drivers work part-time, using their own vehicles.
Seattle Mayor-elect Ed Murray
migrant communities testify to Murray’s promise to bring the city’s contentious political factions together. What remains to be seen is whether such a diverse group can come up with a unified agenda for the city. In his announcement, Murray seemed upbeat about the prospects. “It’s going to be critical for me as mayor
to keep a pulse on what’s important to Seattle – as a city at large, certainly, but also community by community,” he said. “Creating this process now and continuing it into my administration will help me maintain a strong sense of what all corners of Seattle are looking for as we move forward as a city.”
According to the company, payment is optional. At the end of every trip you get a “suggested donation,” which you can increase or decrease as you wish. No cash is used – everything is done by credit/debit and a phone app. “I started this petition because Seattle is the next major U.S. city to take a stand on ridesharing,” said Lyft passenger ChrisTiana Obey, 27. “This is our best opportunity to make sure our city protects our current transportation options with smart, fair regulation. We need to make our voices heard now, while there is still time to influence the council’s decision-making process. A final decision is expected in early December.” Obey, a recent college graduate and a proud resident of Seattle, says a medical condition prevents her from being able to qualify for a driver’s license, “so I rely heavily on public transportation and ridesharing.”
lated for safety reasons. “I want to make sure we regulate with the right interests in mind, safety. That people aren’t getting taken by anybody,” said Clark.
CAB INDUSTRY OPPOSED City Council members are determining how services like Lyft, Sidecar, and UberX will be regulated while taxi companies are lobbying against the very existence of these new services. “This is a pivotal moment for ridesharing in the Northwest,” says Obey. “City Hall needs to hear our voices before they make their final decision.” Still, city officials say, this service is operating like “for-hire” cars that are regulated by the city, and thus it should be subject to similar rules. “They [Lyft] should be regulated because they do qualify as a ‘for-hire’ vehicle, because money is exchanging hands. To that extent they are required to have a for-hire vehicle license,” said Denise Movius, deputy director of Seattle’s Regulatory Services and Operations. She added that city inspectors would ticket any Lyft drivers they see. “This is new territory for most cities – you see these popping up in areas that have denser concentrations of people living and working in these areas,” said Seattle City Council President Sally Clark. Clark says the service needs to be regu-
SELF-IMPOSED STANDARDS Lyft said each of its drivers goes through a rigorous background check. “We do DMV checks, we do criminal background checks, you rate your driver at the end of every trip, and we also have a million-dollar excess liability insurance policy,” said company official Nick Greenfield. Lyft disputes the claim that it operates like a taxi service. “If you don’t want to pay your friend, then that’s OK, but we see that almost everybody is making that suggested donation,” Greenfield added. But drivers can also rate passengers after rides and can choose not to pick them up. “Before Lyft and Sidecar came to Seattle, I had fewer choices to get where I needed to go efficiently and affordably,” continued Obey. “After using these services for the past year, I’ve seen the value it has added to our community. Ridesharing increases our transportation options, helps improve transportation efficiency, and provides important opportunities in this tough economy. Let’s protect ridesharing. We deserve a choice.” CALIFORNIA’S EXAMPLE Just last month, in California, regulators reversed a previous decision after listening to hundreds of ridesharing supporters. They created smart and thoughtful rules, tailored to the sharing economy that protected both public safety and transportation choice. “That is how the rules are supposed to be written,” said Obey. “But it only happens if people like us speak up and make our voices heard.” “Let’s show the council we support the huge strides made in California. Tell your Seattle City Council members: Regulate smart. Regulate just. Regulate fair!” Added Obey, “If we get to 1,000 signatures, I will personally deliver our petition at the next City Council meeting.”
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November 22, 2013
Celebrating 40 Years!
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national news
Missouri to recognize out-of-state marriages
Governor expresses ‘hope’ that in-state ban will be reconsidered by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon said on November 14 that he would issue an executive order allowing Gay and Lesbian couples married in other states to file joint Missouri tax returns, just like opposite-sex spouses do. Missouri tax law says that couples who filed joint federal tax returns are required to file similar joint state returns, and Nixon’s order states that the rule also applies to same-sex couples. Nixon, a Democrat elected in 2008, said he came to the conclusion that same-sex couples deserved equal treatment after reflecting on the U.S. Supreme Court decision last June striking down Section 3 of DOMA. “Many Missourians, including myself, are thinking about these issues of equality in new ways and reflecting on what constitutes discrimination,” he told reporters at a press conference. “For me, that process has led to the belief that we shouldn’t treat folks differently because of who they are.” Missouri passed a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage in 2004, so Gay and Les-
bian couples are not yet entitled to marry in the state. Nixon said he hoped that Missouri voters would revisit that decision. “The question of whether same-sex marriage should be recognized in Missouri is a separate issue,” he noted, “one that I hope quite frankly Missourians have another chance to visit.” COULD NIXON BE IMPEACHED? Missouri Republicans were predictably outraged, and one, State Rep. Nick Marshall, announced he would seek to impeach Nixon. “I will seek articles of impeachment against the governor,” Marshall said. “He has openly disregarded the laws and constitution of the state of Missouri and allowed his administration to do so on multiple occasions. If we are to live under the rule of law, he cannot be allowed to remain in office.” It is not clear whether an impeachment measure will actually be introduced, or if it is, whether it will get traction in the Missouri legislature. Republicans control both chambers, with a 24-10 margin in the Senate and 106-56 in the House. ap
Same-sex benefits no problem for Houston Mayor says denying LGBT couples equal treatment would be illegal
the mayor’s office said in a statement issued November 20. “Based on the right to equal protection unHouston Mayor Annise Parker announced der the law, it is unconstitutional for the city this week that her city will begin offering to continue to deny benefits to the same-sex by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer
“This change is not only the legal thing to do, it is the right, just and fair thing to do.” spousal benefits to Gay and Lesbian partners legally married to City workers. The openly Lesbian mayor was first elected in 2009, and re-elected in 2011, and again this year. Texas law forbids same-sex marriage, and a Houston city charter amendment adopted in 2001 specifically limits benefits to “legal spouses.” At the time it was adopted, the amendment meant that no same-sex partners were eligible for City-provided benefits. In the 12 years since 2001, however, 16 states have allowed Gay and Lesbian couples to marry, civil suits for marriage recognition have been filed in 21 more, and the U.S. Supreme Court has struck down DOMA. “After a careful review of recent case law, the city legal department believes continued application of the charter amendment so as to deny same-sex spousal benefits would be unlawful because it treats employees differently on the basis of sexual orientation,”
spouses of our employees who are legally married,” Parker added. “This change is not only the legal thing to do, it is the right, just and fair thing to do.” MARRIED COUPLES ONLY As a result of this policy change, samesex spouses of city employees will now be eligible for the same health care and life insurance benefits previously offered only to opposite-sex spouses. The new policy does not apply to domestic partners, only to legally married couples. The mayor’s office said it does not know at this time how many employees will take advantage of the change because there is no way to know how many have legally recognized same-sex marriages. According to the Houston Chronicle, the mayor herself will not be able to take advantage of the new rule, because she and her partner of 24 years, Kathy Hubbard, have not been married in a state where that
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Houston Mayor Annise Parker
is legal. Houston joins several other Texas cities offering benefits to same-sex partners, including Austin, Dallas, El Paso, Fort Worth, and San Antonio. Parker’s announcement could embroil Houston in a legal battle with Republican Attorney General Greg Abbott, who issued a nonbinding advisory opinion in April saying he believes same-sex partner benefits offered by local government entities are illegal under Texas’ constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. Abbott is run-
November 22, 2013
ning for governor in 2014. The mayor’s office noted in its November 20 statement that the new policy is compatible with federal rules, however. “The city of Houston is following actions already taken by several federal agencies, including the Internal Revenue Service, which announced in August that all legally married same-sex couples will be recognized as married for federal tax purposes, even if those couples reside in states that do not recognize same-sex marriage,” the statement says.
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Army accused of bias against same-sex couple Lesbian pair say they were barred from religious marriage retreat by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor The American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation’s premier resource and support network for LGBT military spouses and their families, reports that a legally married same-gender couple at Fort Irwin, California, was denied participation in a U.S. Army marriage enrichment program. “Today, a solider approached a chaplain at Fort Irwin about participating in a ‘Strong Bonds’ marriage enrichment retreat at the base with her wife, AMPA member Shakera Leigh Halford,” said AMPA officials in a news release this week. “The marriage enrichment retreat is one of the many services run by the U.S. Army’s Chaplain Corps. According to Shakera, the service member was told they were “ineligible because of their sexual orientation and that they could not attend.”
tion (AMPA), a nonpartisan and nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization based in Washington, D.C., is the nation’s premier resource and support network for LGBT military spouses and their families. Founded and led by same-sex military partners in 2009 as the
Campaign for Military Partners, AMPA is committed to “connecting, supporting, honoring, and serving the partners and spouses of America’s LGBT servicemembers and veterans.”
State Dept. honors Transgender Day of Remembrance file photo
PROCEDURE NOT FOLLOWED By threatening to remove their endorsements, endorsing agencies for both the Southern Baptist Convention and Roman Catholic Church have prohibited their endorsed chaplains from providing services that in any way recognize or approve of same-gender marriage, said AMPA. However, AMPA points out, “military guidance to chaplains dictate that they must
either perform the services or provide for that service by finding another chaplain who can. That guidance was not followed.” “I’m very sad and disappointed,” said Shakera, the wife of the active-duty U.S. soldier. “To know there are valuable resources available to soldiers and their families to help us through the challenges of military life, and then be told that we aren’t eligible because of our sexual orientation ... it hurts, it really hurts. We’re at a pretty secluded base and there aren’t many other resources out there for us, so what are we supposed to do?” “It is highly disturbing that Gay and Lesbian service members and their spouses are still being excluded from resources provided through the United States Army,” said Stephen Peters, president of AMPA. “This is yet another example of the importance of adding sexual orientation to the Department of Defense nondiscrimination policy and equal opportunity program. It is far past time that our military families are protected from this kind of discrimination and valued for their service to our nation.” For more information about the American Military Partner Association and LGBT military families, visit www.militarypartners.org. ABOUT AMPA The American Military Partner Associa-
Secretary of State John Kerry
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has issued the following statement regarding Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20). The State Department joins people around the world in marking Transgender Day of Remembrance, honoring the memory of lives lost to violence provoked by fear and hatred of Transgender and gender-nonconforming people. We have made tremendous progress in advancing the rights of LGBT persons. But when people continue to be harassed, arrested, and even killed simply because of who they are and whom they love, we know that we still have hard work before us. The sad truth is that in too many places, including the United States, Transgender persons continue to face violence and discrimination on a daily basis. In too many cases, crimes against LGBT persons, including murder, are not thoroughly investigated or prosecuted. Transgender persons are frequently denied medical care and public services. They still suffer discrimination in employment, education,
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and housing. Each of these episodes threatens our common humanity. Together, we pay a price when rights are trampled. And, together, we win when rights are protected. That is why we are engaging diplomatically to address the specific challenges faced by Transgender persons. And that’s why we will continue to urge other governments to protect all of their citizens regardless of their gender identity. Through the Global Equality Fund, we are increasing support to civil society organizations to combat bias-motivated violence targeting Transgender persons. The rights of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender persons are not special or separate or different. They are basic human rights. And human rights are universal, not negotiable. On Transgender Day of Remembrance, we renew our commitment to ensuring that all persons are able to live safely, freely and with dignity, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Celebrating 40 Years!
The bigots are broke
Tax return shows NOM is $2.7 million in the hole
Jersey efforts to uphold Gov. Chris Christie’s veto of that state’s marriage equality bill got a relatively paltry $10,000. The override was made moot, of course, by a New Jersey court decision legalizing samesex marriage. NOM’s only winning play was the North Carolina constitutional amendment barring Gay and Lesbian couples from marrying. The group spent $425,000 in that state. On the revenue side, NOM’s report shows 64 unnamed donors, each contributing more that $5,000. Nine of them gave NOM
In October, NOM filed suit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), alleging that the federal tax agency leaked confidential documents naming NOM donors to HRC, which HRC then published on its website. Among other NOM donors on the list was the Free and Strong America PAC, created by 2012 Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney. NOM also alleged that it had been specifically targeted by the IRS because of the Obama administration’s support of samesex marriage. NOM chairman John East-
“The organization draws its funds from just a few mega-donors, and it boasts a losing electoral track record over the past few years that reflects how increasingly out-of-step NOM’s anti-LGBT agenda is with the values of the average American voter.”
by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer The National Organization for Marriage (NOM) has published its Form 990 tax return for 2012, and it shows the anti-Gay organization with a $2.7 million deficit. Form 990s must be filed by nonprofit organizations to report their income and expenditures. On the spending side, NOM got very little bang for its buck. Most of the group’s
“grants” went to failed campaigns to prevent marriage equality in Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, and Washington. In this state, most of NOM’s money – $1,130,000 worth – went to the main antiequality campaign, Protect Marriage Washington. Another $11,000 went to the Family Policy Institute, a Lynnwood-based lobbying group run by Joseph Backholm. The Minnesota campaign received NOM’s largest contribution, almost $2 million, and Maryland got $1,640,000. New
$100,000 or more. The three largest donors man testified to that effect before the House gave the group contributions of $2.6 mil- Ways and Means Committee in June. lion, $1.9 million, and $1.5 million. GROUP CONCEALED DONORS POSSIBLE IRREGULARITY Most states require ballot campaigns to NOM’s tax return also revealed the fact disclose donors, and NOM was successfully that the NOM Education Fund, NOM’s prosecuted by the state of Maine for violat501(c)(3) “charitable education” arm, ing its disclosure laws during the Question 1 loaned NOM’s political wing nearly $1.7 campaign in 2012. million. Federal law prohibits 501(c)(3) HRC continues to charge NOM with illes from engaging in electoral campaigns or gally hiding its donors. NOM replied with a lobbying work, and the loan raises the ques- blistering attack in a statement accompanytion whether the Education Fund’s money ing its 990 tax form. was used for activities that violate the Edu“NOM fully complies with federal law recation Fund’s tax exempt status. garding the public availability of our Form HRC, which has tangled with NOM over 990 tax return,” the group said. the anti-Gay group’s disclosure practices “Our 2012 Form 990 was mailed to the in the past, issued a statement celebrating IRS on November 15th as required by law. NOM’s financial difficulties. It is available for public inspection on the “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to NOM website. This frivolous complaint by look at the so-called National Organization the HRC is extremely ironic given the fact for Marriage as a viable entity,” said Fred that HRC published on its website the priSainz, HRC Vice President of Communi- vate information from NOM’s 2008 Form cations. “The organization draws its funds 990, which is a felony under federal law from just a few mega-donors, and it boasts and which is the subject of current Congresa losing electoral track record over the past sional investigations. NOM has also filed a few years that reflects how increasingly out- federal lawsuit against the IRS to find out of-step NOM’s anti-LGBT agenda is with who in the IRS illegally released to the HRC the values of the average American voter.” our confidential donor information.”
The National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) will honor MSNBC anchor Thomas Roberts with the NGLCC/ American Airlines ExtrAA Mile Award for his longstanding commitment to promoting equality for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) people at the sold-out NGLCC National Dinner on November 22 in Washington, D.C. Speaking recently to Russian and global media before hosting the Miss Universe pageant in Moscow, Thomas Roberts expressed support to Russia’s LGBT citizens harmed by that country’s recently-passed “Gay propaganda” laws. “I know the law is very vague and still hard to interpret for many people,” said Roberts. “But it is discrimination and that’s definitive. And I don’t think that the LGBT population in Russia or anywhere should be marginalized to that degree. We are not asking for special protection. We’re just asking for equal respect.” In addition to honoring Roberts, NGLCC will award select individuals and organizations for their courage and dedication to the LGBT business community. The event brings together more than 800 entrepreneurs, local affiliate leaders, corporate allies, and government officials from around the globe, including representatives from Fortune 500 companies. “The NGLCC is celebrating the people and the organizations that recognize not only the influence of LGBT business enterprises, but also the overall economics of inclusivity,” said Justin G. Nelson, NGLCC president and co-founder. “Recognizing
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msnbc
Gay Chamber honors MSNBC’s Thomas Roberts
the work of passionate leaders, both LGBT and allies, is an integral part of ensuring the marketplace and the workplace are open and accepting of LGBT people.” OTHER HONOREES In addition to Roberts, this year’s NGLCC award recipients include Capital One (Corporation of the Year); José Nido, vice president of Global Supplier Diversity for Wyndham Worldwide (Advocate of the Year); and ZippyDogs (LGBT Supplier of the Year). The capacity crowd will also enjoy live entertainment from breakout country singer and songwriter Steve Grand and live dance mixing from Las Vegas DJ Nick Ayler at the after-party. “With the help of more than 50 sponsors, including presenting sponsor IBM, we put on a premium celebration for our honorees,” said Chance Mitchell, NGLCC CEO and co-founder. “NGLCC is about connecting organizations, clients, and vendors to elevate and applaud best practices in supplier diversity and our work bringing diverse communities together.” Learn more about the National Dinner, the honorees, and supplier diversity by visiting www.nglcc.org/events/nglcc-nationaldinner. ABOUT THE NGLCC The National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Thomas Roberts Commerce (NGLCC) is the only national not-for-profit advocacy organization dedi- body for LGBT-owned businesses, with 140 and economic advocacy organization in cated to expanding the economic opportu- corporate partners and 52 local, state, and the world. Learn more at www.nglcc.org. – nities and advancements of the LGBT busi- international affiliate chambers, NGLCC Submitted by the NGLCC ness community. As the national certifying is the largest LGBT business development
November 22, 2013
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Celebrating 40 Years!
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Seattle Gay News 15
Injustice at work
Data show anti-LGBT discrimination still persistent, pervasive by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor Surveys, polls, and wage data indicate that employment discrimination against LGBT people is persistent and pervasive, according to new research conducted by UCLA’s Williams Institute. Research further indicates that enforcement of anti-discrimination protections is not overly burdensome, and businesses generally support nondiscrimination policies. The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), which would provide federal protection against sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination, now awaits consideration in the U.S. House of Representatives, where a majority of Republicans say they oppose it. Williams Institute research released earlier this week shows that a majority of Americans in every congressional district supports laws that protect against sexual orientation discrimination.
illinois
continued from cover 24 hours to give themselves more time to lobby colleagues. In the end, the measure passed the House with only one vote to spare. VOLUNTEERS WERE KEY Supporters credited the dozens of volunteers who phonebanked undecided legislators over the summer, and House Speaker Michael Madigan, who personally lobbied wavering members to vote for the bill. Madigan is also the chair of the state Democratic Party, meaning he can funnel the party’s campaign money to Democratic members facing electoral challenges because of their decision to vote in favor of marriage equality. Madigan himself gave much of the credit to the bill’s sponsors, Sen. Heather Steans and Rep. Greg Harris, both of whom are Democrats from Chicago. “We’re here to celebrate family, commitment, equality, love, courage, and community,” Harris said, before taking a dig at the conservative opposition. “Marriage is a family value.” Harris also noted that the bill would not have passed without the votes of three Republicans who broke ranks with the rest of their party – Reps. Ed Sullivan, Ron Sandack, and Tom Cross. “It takes both parties to make something happen, and when we work together, look what we can do,” said Republican Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka. “I am available to be a flower girl, and I’ll even waive the fee.” The law will take effect on June 1, 2014. Although that date is a Sunday, officials with Cook County Clerk David Orr’s office said they will be open to issue marriage licenses, and they expect a huge demand. They added they may provide special waivers so couples need not wait until the day after receiving a license before they can be married. Civil unions can now be converted to marriages within a year of the law taking effect. About 6,500 applications for civil unions have been filed since 2011, with roughly 4,000 originating in Cook County.
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‘UNCLEAN’ SPIRITS EXORCISED Predictably, Roman Catholic authorities and other religious conservatives in Illinois reacted with horror. While Lesbian and Gay couples and their friends gathered to celebrate equality in Chicago, Catholic Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, the state capital, led a ceremony titled “Prayers of Supplication and Exorcism in Reparation for the Sin of Same-Sex Marriage” at Immaculate Conception Cathedral. “I exorcise you, every unclean spirit, every power of darkness, every incursion of the infernal enemy, every diabolical legion, cohort, and faction, in the name and power of our Lord, Jesus Christ!” Paprocki said during the hour-long rite, conducted mostly in Latin. “It is not the church that must change to confirm its teachings to the views of the world, but it is each individual who is called to be configured to Christ,” Paprocki added. Afterwards, the bishop told Chicago Tribune reporters that his actions “are not meant to demonize anyone, but are intended to call attention to the diabolical influences of the devil that have penetrated our culture, both in the state and in the church.” Paprocki also charged that “politicians responsible for enacting civil same-sex marriage legislation are morally complicit as co-operators in facilitating this grave sin.”
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PASTORAL LETTER Paprocki’s boss, Cardinal Francis George, Archbishop of Chicago, ordered all priests in Illinois to read their congregations a letter condemning the marriage law. “There will be consequences for the Church and society that will become clearer as the law is used to sue for discrimination,” the archbishop’s letter said. “The law has made some Gays and Lesbians happy, and that is not a bad thing in itself. The law, however, is bad law because it will contribute over the long run to the further dissolution of marriage and family life, which are the bedrock of any society.” Cardinal George is perhaps best known for demanding that Chicago’s Pride Parade, which he compared to a Ku Klux Klan rally, steer clear of Catholic churches.
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UNJUSTLY MARGINALIZED Recalling that Rustin was pushed into the background by pervasive homophobia during his years working with civil rights leaders A. Philip Randolph and Martin Luther King Jr., Obama noted the country’s progress toward equality. “So, for decades, this great leader, often
at Dr. King’s side, was denied his rightful place in history because he was openly Gay,” he said during the award ceremony. ”No medal can change that, but today, we honor Bayard Rustin’s memory by taking our place in his march towards true equality, no matter who we are or who we love.” Walter Naegle, Rustin’s longtime partner, accepted the award on his behalf. Rustin died in 1987 at age 75. FIRST LESBIAN ASTRONAUT The other LGBT honoree, Sally Ride, who died last year at 61, was recognized as ”the first American female astronaut to travel to space. As a role model to generations of young women, she advocated passionately for science education, stood up for racial and gender equality in the classroom, and taught students from every background that there are no limits to what they can accomplish. Dr. Ride also served in several administrations as an advisor on space exploration.” Ride’s medal was accepted by her partner, Tam O’Shaughnessy. The Medal of Freedom, created by President John F. Kennedy 50 years ago, is the highest honor that can be bestowed on U.S. civilians. In the five decades since, more than 500 people have been recognized for contributions to the culture and society of the country. Past LGBT recipients include playwright Tennessee Williams and politician Harvey Milk.
Celebrating 40 Years!
northwest news
PRATT FINE ARTS CENTER – HOLIDAY ART SALE From Saturday, November 23 through Saturday, November 30, from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., except closed Thanksgiving Day, November 28, at Pratt Fine Arts Center (1902 S. Main St.), enjoy an exceptional selection of art and unique gifts including handmade glass, sculpture, jewelry, paintings, prints, ornaments and other functional objects – all made by local artists. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Pratt Fine Arts Center, the most dynamic year-round, multi-disciplinary arts center in the Pacific Northwest. Admission is FREE. Pratt Fine Arts Center hosts a special Opening Night First Dibs Party on Friday, November 22, from 6-9 p.m. Admission is $50. Guests will also have an exclusive opportunity to purchase nsold work from previous Pratt auctions and other special events. Appetizers and libations will be provided for holiday merriment. 206-3282200; www.pratt.org/event/2013_has GREATER SEATTLE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION – 2013 TASTE OF GSBA On Saturday, November 23, at 5:30 p.m., at Sheraton Seattle Hotel, Grand Ballroom (1400 Sixth Ave.), join the GSBA for the Taste of GSBA, featuring a fabulous cast of silent and live auction items, small plates from GSBA caterers and restaurants, hosted beer, wine and the SVEDKA Vodka signature cocktail, a four-course dinner and show-stopping Broadway musical entertainment, all to benefit the GSBA Scholarship Fund. Attire is Black Tie or Red Carpet Glamour. Registration: $225 members; $250 non members. 206-363-9188; www. thegsba.org. ”MARK MITCHELL” DOCUMENTARY SEEKS LOCAL SUPPORT IN INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION The Audience Awards online film competition is hosting the 2013 International Documentary Challenge Audience Awards Competition. As a finalist in the 2013 Doc Challenge, the film “Mark Mitchell” received international exposure and recognition. The film also premiered at Hot Docs, the largest documentary film festival in North America. Now “Mark Mitchell” is competing to be crowned the audience’s favorite from the 2013 Doc Challenge. “Mark Mitchell,” directed by Seattle filmmaker Marcy Stone-Francois, profiles the life and work of Seattle designer Mark Mitchell. In the film Mitchell speaks openly about his life as an HIV positive Gay man, and how his experiences have inspired his work. The film also explores Mitchell’s recent “Burial Project,” which was a featured exhibit at the Frye Art Museum from September 21-October 20, 2013. Now, Mitchell and Stone-Francois are looking for local support to help push them to victory. Winning the 2013 Doc Challenge Audience Award would mean amazing exposure as well as a $500 cash prize. Like “American Idol” for filmmakers, films vie for the most votes at The Audience Awards. It’s a new kind of online film competition that offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to indie filmmakers by providing a digital platform to reach a diverse online audience. “The Audience Awards helps filmmakers get noticed,” said Paige Williams, awardwinning filmmaker and founder of The Audience Awards host company, FilmSpur. “This is a chance for communities to help showcase the impressive and passionate work created by local filmmakers.” Voting for the 2013 International Documentary Challenge Audience Awards Competition ends November 30. Audience members can vote daily throughout the competition for their favorite film. To watch the film “Mark Mitchell” and other finalists in the competition, visit www. theaudienceawards.com. Then vote.
ALL PILGRIMS CHRISTIAN CHURCH – SUPPORTING LGBT INDIVIDUALS IN RECOVERY Are you struggling with the God concept in your recovery journey? Were you harmed by a faith-community of your past that makes re-engaging frightening? Reclaim your journey God intended. Join us on Sunday, November 24, at 10:30 a.m., at All Pilgrims Christian Church (500 Broadway E., at E. Republican St.) and discover a faith-community that celebrates YOU for who you are. All are welcome at All Pilgrims. Come and hear motivating recovery stories and how God and supportive spiritual community can help you on your own personal recovery journey. Staying clean and sober is challenging and hard work. You don’t have to do it alone. Lunch and fellowship immediately following worship service. The Recovery Cafe and Seattle Area Support Groups (SASG) will be there to provide recovery resources. “God calls you into the future and promises to meet you there. We would love to share our journey as you experience the great things God as for you,” says Pastor Greg Turk. Victor De Los Santos, SCCC Chemical Dependency Professional intern states, “As a person in recovery, I hear countless stories in the self-help meetings of LGBT members in our community not sure if the God of their childhood is the same God of their current understanding. We want to do business with a loving God that doesn’t judge us for being Gay. I am so blessed I have found the All Pilgrims community. They have helped me maintain my own sobriety, giving me a solid support system to help me in my recovery journey.” All Pilgrims would like to hear from you. Your feedback is valuable. Please take a few minutes to fill out their confidential recovery and faith survey at www.allpilgrims.org/ recoverysurvey. All Pilgrims Christian Church is a faithcommunity which truly values and celebrates diversity. Through God’s love and with Christ’s example we set aside all human barriers and divisions and invest ourselves in the healing of prejudice, exclusion and hatred. We are open to, and affirming of, the full participation of all as equal members in this one body: people of color, ages, economic circumstances, sexual orientations, gender or Transgender identities, physical and mental abilities, education levels and conditions of health. 206-322-0487; www.allpilgrims.org GAY CITY HEALTH PROJECT – LGBT SMOKERS & FORMER SMOKERS FORUM On Tuesday, November 26, from 5:307 p.m., at the Calamus Auditorium at Gay City (517 E. Pike St.), join Gay City to participate in an LGBT Smokers & Former Smokers Focus Group. Smoker? Former Smoker? LGBT people who smoke, or used to smoke, can get a $25 gift card just for giving Gay City your opinions about LGBT smoking in King County! Gay City and Seattle Counseling Service are hosting a series of focus groups to help guide tobacco prevention work in King County. Participants will receive a $25 gift card for participating in a 90 minute focus group. RSVP is required: 206-388-1710 or emily@gaycity.org. POZ SEATTLE – THANKSGIVING SOCIAL On Wednesday, November 27, from 6-8 p.m., at C.C. Attle’s (1701 E. Olive Way), POZSeattle, in collaboration with C.C. Attle’s, hosts their 2nd monthly social. Meet inside for drinks, light fare of tasty holiday foods provided by C.C. fabulous kitchen, and a whole lot of fun. This event is for all HIV-Positive men and their friends, regardless of age, shape, size or color. This event is free (except for cost of beverages from the bar), but a voluntary $3 donation is requested (no one turned away for lack of funds) to help with over-
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compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer
head costs – you can always give more! This event is for all HIV-Positive men and their friends, regardless of age, shape, size or color. POZSeattle is a social organization run for and by Seattle-area HIV-positive guys that is committed to planning and promoting fun, social activities. www.pozseattle.org. ARTS ON THE WATERFRONT – “CABARET” SET IN RUSSIA WITH AN ALL-MALE CAST NOVEMBER 28-DECEMBER 13 Wes Hurley, author of the SGN article “Stranger in my homeland: Realizing I was Gay in Russia felt like a terminal disease diagnosis” (SGN, August 2, 2013), is set to star as the EmCee in a groundbreaking modern production of Cabaret. Arts on the Waterfront’s new production will be set in Russia instead of the usual Germany, combining theatre, drag, and short clips of the actual Russian vigilantes/neo-Nazis to comment on recent events in Russia. The production will also feature Zachary Simonson of Seattle Repertory Theatre’s “American Buffalo” as well as members of the Seattle drag community. Performances run November 28 (preview), November 29 (opening) through December 13 (except December 3 and 10), all at 8 p.m. at Cornish Playhouse (formerly Intiman Theatre), 201 Mercer St. www.artsonthewaterfront.com. ETSY RAIN – HANDMADE HOLIDAY SHOW On Friday & Saturday, November 29 & 30, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., at Elliott Hall at Pier 66 (2211 Alaskan Way), shop handmade on Black Friday & Saturday, support local and shop over 90 small businesses under one roof. FREE swag bags to the first 100 shoppers each day. (Parking at the Art Institute Garage, 2323 Elliott Ave.) www. etsyRAIN.com SEATTLE MEN IN LEATHER – 25TH ANNUAL SEATTLE LEATHER DADDY & DADDYS BOY CONTEST On Friday, November 29, from 7-9 p.m., join Seattle Men in Leather for a Meet & Greet at Doghouse Leathers (1312 E. Pike St.). Meet the Seattle Leather Daddy and Daddy’s boy Contest contestants and judges. Enjoy camaraderie and refreshments. On Saturday, November 30, from 6-9 p.m., The Cuff Complex (1533 13th Ave.) hosts the Seattle Men in Leather’s 25th Annual Seattle Leather Daddy & Daddy’s boy Contest. On Sunday, December 1, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at C.C. Attle’s (1701 E. Olive Way), join Seattle Men in Leather for the Seattle Leather Daddy & Daddy’s boy Contest Victory Brunch to congratulate their newest Seattle Leather Daddy & Daddy’s boy. www.seattlemeninleather.org SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS – “PLAY IT AGAIN, SANTA” NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 22 On Saturday, November 30, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, December 1, at 2 p.m. at Benaroya Hall (3rd Ave. & Union St.), borrowing from the film classic Casablanca, with Santa (not Sam) at the piano in an out-ofthe-way nightclub much farther north than Morocco – like at the North Pole, the Seattle Men’s Chorus kicks off their holiday concert with special guest Tony award-winning pianist and vocalist Levi Kreis. Levi’s powerful vocals and ability to “tear through a song,” along with SMC’s fabulous musical style, mean that it may be hard to stay seated at this season’s opening concerts. With their unique blend of song, dance and campy comedy, SMC has carved its niche as Seattle’s OTHER holiday tradition. As artistic director Dennis Coleman points out, “We try to bring three things to every holiday concert: a goose-bump, a laugn and a tear.” Goose-bumps abound in act one with several richly harmonic a capella selections, both traditional and non-traditional pieces. Act two brings lots of laughs with the special “Santa set” and there will be a
November 22, 2013
good dose of emotion as SMC celebrates the “Gift of Marriage Equality in 2013.” Expect holiday favorites like “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” “We Need a Little Christmas,” “Joy to the World,” and “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town,” and no concert would be complete without SMC’s signature holiday piece, “Silent Night.” For the second consecutive year, SMC is proud to partner with Lifelong AIDS Alliance for a Holiday Food Drive during the Seattle concerts at Benaroya Hall. All nonperishable goods will be accepted and will be used in Lifelong AIDS Alliance’s food program, Chicken Soup Brigade. The Seattle Men’s Chorus’ “Play It Again, Santa” concerts will be held 11/30 @ 8 p.m., with special guest Levi Kreis, 12/1 @ 2 p.m., with special guest Levi Kreis, 12/8 @ 7:30 p.m., 12/9 @ 7:30 p.m., 12/15 @ 7:30 p.m., 12/16 @ 7:30 p.m., and 12/22 @ 7:30 p.m. at Benaroya Hall. Tickets are $28-$78. 206-388-1400; www.SeattleMensChorus.org. The Tacoma concert will be held 12/12 @ 8 p.m. at Pantages Theatre (901 Broadway, Tacoma). Tickets are $44-$59. 253-5915894; www.BroadwayCenter.org. The Everett concert will be held 12/14 @ 8 p.m. at Civic Auditorium (2415 Colby Ave., Everett). 206-388-1400; www.SeattleMensChorus.org. KOLENU – “LIGHT THE NIGHT: A GLBTQ HANUKKAH” On Monday, December 2, at 7 p.m., at Calamus Auditorium at Gay City (517 E. Pike St.), join Kolenu, Seattle’s Jewish GLBTQ group, for their 5th annual Hanukkah celebration. Enjoy tasty latkes, colorful dreidels, music, and a beautiful candle lighting symbolizing both the miracle of Hanukkah and the affirmation that great leadership and community action will prevail against oppression. FREE and open to the community. Allies, friends and family welcome! RSVP to joshf@hilleluw.org. INGERSOLL GENDER CENTER – “CABARET SNOWBALL!” On Saturday, December 7, at 7 p.m., at Seattle City Hall, Bertha Knight Landes Room (5th Ave & Cherry St.), Ingersoll Gender Center celebrates the season and the end of a fabulous 2013 with “Cabaret Snowball!” Mix and mingle with friends old and new, enjoy the warmth of a delicious soup and salad buffet with wine, beer and soft drinks, delight in the very Queer burlesque entertainment of the world renowned Miss Indigo Blue and the hijinks of Lily Divine’s Debauchery burlesque troupe. Hosted by Seattle City Council President, Sally Clark. Tickets: $20 advance; more at the door. www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/511874. This is an all-ages event. RAINBOW CITY BAND – “RCB ON HOLIDAY!” On Saturday, December 7, at 7 p.m., at Edmonds Center for the Arts (410 4th Ave. N., Edmonds), the Rainbow City Band presents “RCB on Holiday!” – featuring music of holiday cheer and gaiety from favorite vacation locales around the world. Tickets: $15 & $20. 425-275-9595; www.ec4arts. org; www.rainbowcityband.com GAY CITY ARTS – “GATHER AND GLEAN” Gay City Arts presents “Gather and Glean,” a solo exhibition of works by Therese Buchmiller from Thursday, November 14 through Monday, December 9, at Gay City Arts (517 E. Pike St.). For more information about the artist, visit tbuchmiller.com. WINTER PRIDE – GAY SKI/SNOWBOARD WEEK WHISTLER, BC JAN. 26 – FEB. 2, 2014 One of the largest and most popular Gay Ski/Snowboard weeks in the world. Plus top flight guest DJs. 866-787-1966; www.gaywhistler.com.
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health and medicine
CreateSpace
Would your holidays be different with a terminal illness?
Woman with incurable cancer tells how she gets the most out of every day
Jane Schwartzberg cringes when she hears someone say that a terrible accident or frightening medical diagnosis made them realize what’s important in life. “In some ways, I do wish everyone could experience a taste of terminal, if that’s what it takes to make them appreciate the intangible gifts we receive not just during the holidays, but all year,” says Schwartzberg, co-author with Marcy Tolkoff Levy of Naked Jane Bares All, a new book that shares Jane’s story with candor and humor. “But I wish they’d known all along, and I hate the thought of goodness coming at the expense of so much suffering.” Schwartzberg says she was clear about what’s most important before she was diagnosed with stage-four incurable breast cancer. As a mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, she knew that all that really matters is how much love we give and receive. The holidays are a wonderful opportunity for people to remember that and to focus on who they love. But, too often, they become
a source of anxiety, stress, and tension. Financial concerns, having too much to do, and missing loved ones were among the top causes of holiday stress, according to a recent Mental Health America survey. TIME TO REFOCUS “Although I won’t attribute any revelations about what’s most important in life to my illness, I can say that there are a few things that I am trying to do better since getting sick,” Schwartzberg says. “The holidays are a great time to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and to refocus on the things that are most meaningful.” For Schwartzberg, those include: • Showing up. If you’re worried about yesterday or always planning for tomorrow, you’re missing the present moment and any wonderful experiences it may hold. “Although my clock ticks louder than others, I know we are all here for a short time,” Schwartzberg says. “I am determined to find joy in every single day. It may come
Jane Schwartzberg
from the simplest of things: a view from my window, a great conversation, or a hot cup of coffee. But I know I need to be always present and available, with an open mind and open heart, to experience any of it.” • Riding her “love train.” We all have people in our lives who care about us, and it’s important to let them know how much we appreciate them. Schwartzberg’s “love train” is a metaphor for all the people she chooses to share her life with. “They are rooting me on and giving my family and me love and support,” she says. “I try to be as meticulous and thoughtful as I possibly can be with those on board, and that means making sure they know how much I love and value them.” • Knowing her place in the world. There is a Jewish teaching that says everyone should carry with them two pieces of paper, each in a separate pocket. One paper should say, “I am but dust and ashes,” and the other, “The world was created for me.” Schwartzberg says, “I constantly remind myself that both statements are true. I am capable of incredible things to improve the world, and I am just a tiny speck in the universe. Powerfulness and humility can, and do, exist for me side by side.”
As the holidays approach, keep in mind that the best gift you can give – or receive – is love. “It’s not a table full of food, or gadgets you can’t afford,” she says. “Approach this holiday season as if it could be your last, and you’ll probably find much more to revel in than to stress about.” ABOUT JANE Jane Schwartzberg, 45, is co-author of the newly released book, Naked Jane Bares All, the many-layered story – told with humor and candor – of how she learned to embrace life when she was down for the count. Jane is a financial services executive, and founder and former CEO of a start-up technology company. Naked Jane Bares All was co-written by veteran author Marcy Tolkoff Levy. Following a year of interviews and many late nights with Jane, her family, and her friends, Marcy formed the foundation of a colorful, poignant, and even humorous collection of vignettes about how Jane continues to get back up when life throws her down. More information on the book is available online at www.nakedjanebaresall.com.
University of Washington Research Study Department of Medicine Testosterone & Prostate Study Men are needed to participate in a study looking at the effects of testosterone on the prostate gland. This study will be conducted at the University of Washington, Seattle. It involves the use of two investigational drugs and a prostate biopsy. The study involves 9 visits over a period of 5 months. To be eligible you must be: 25-55 years of age, male, in good health, not taking medications on a daily basis. Volunteers will be reimbursed for their time and inconvenience for each study visit completed and may be compensated up to $1,000.
If interested, call 206-616-1818 (volunteer line) and ask for more information about the PROS-2 study. Stephanie Page, MD, PhD; William Bremner, MD, PhD; John Amory, MD, MPH; Daniel Lin, MD
Rich Full-Bodied Cafes Savory Homestyle Soups & Sandwiches 18 Seattle Gay News
November 22, 2013
Celebrating 40 Years!
SPORTS
Musings of a past football cheerleader
and late bloomers in the color of the Vikings, our school sports team. We even got to wear the cheerleading uniforms while we attended classes at my junior high. At one point, the football coach called us in for an informational huddle. The coach groaned as he told us that we were saying, “First and 10, do it again!” We yelled this when the rival team scored a 10-yard gain! I remember doing a cheer and seeing one young man in the grandstand pointing at me! “Uh oh!” I feverishly thought, “Was I doing something wrong, or did the pointer want a real ‘car date’ with me? Did my cheerleading background prepare me for a lifetime devotion to the Seahawks? I think so, for every time I see them, I cheer loudly enough to be heard at the nearest pet-
rol station! I mentally held the Seahawks’ hand as they marched toward their first Super Bowl contention in 2006. Granted, they were the underdogs, yet that made no difference to me as I munched on my Seahawk nachos. I really had enough Seahawk mojo to conduct my own tailgate party! EPILOGUE The Little Prince once said, “That which is essential, is invisible.” I ask you, Seahawk reader, how can my love for the Seahawks be any more essential for me when I am cheering for a most positive idea: the sweet scent of victory as the official raises both hands in a touchdown salute while you cheer those Seahawks on with, “Go, Go, Go, you Seahawks!”
ish, what the name of the Seahawks’ quarterback is! He replied, “It’s Russ Wilson!” “Go Hawks, man!” was my 10-yard reply to “Hooo-hooo, hooo-hooo, hooo-hooo!” is him as I cherished that trinket of extra-point my battle cry when I sit back in my armchair knowledge. quarterback chair. I am a Seattle Seahawks fan, although I do not paint my face in SUSAN CHEERS HER TEAM ON shades of Seahawk colors like those at CenMy Seahawk fan beginnings can be found tury Link field. I had to ask a good friend, way back in eighth and ninth grade, when I Charlie “Our Team Is Red Hot” Gefeltaf- was a cheerleader. We wore corduroy shifts by Sugie Gemson Special to the SGN
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Kiki with D Cold feet by D Smith SGN Contributing Writer Dear D, My fiancé and I just called off our wedding, and I don’t know if I should stay with him. Let me give you a little background info: I am a mid-20s professional working in Boston. He is in his early 30s and was in the military. We’ve been together for over five years. We’ve been through a lot together, including long distance. He’s the first person I’ve dated who I really thought I could marry. We started having problems a few months ago when we moved in together. Once a loving, affectionate person, he became distant and cold. We didn’t talk much (unless
we were arguing), and all of a sudden I felt like I didn’t know this person I’ve been with for so long. I have tried many times to talk about what was bothering him, but we never really got anywhere. We both realized there was a problem but didn’t know what to do. I suggested counseling, and we started going. Finally he tells me that he’s unsure about getting married. He’s afraid that things will continue the way they’ve been for the last few months and we’ll end up getting divorced. (Honestly, I’ve had the same nagging fear but truly believed that we could work through this tough time together.) He says it’s not me but his own fears that are causing him to feel this way. After a lot of talking, we both decided that we should not get married this fall as we had planned. Of
course I’m devastated, but I’m also relieved that this has come out now rather than later. I stayed for a while and we tried to work on things, but I ended up moving out of our house. He had become really resistant in counseling and didn’t want to try any of the things the counselor suggested. I felt like he had completely given up on us. I was so frustrated that I had to take myself out of the situation, even though it was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I am still in need of help, though, because now he’s decided he wants to work it out. He has completely changed his tune, saying that it was a huge mistake to let me go and he’ll do anything to fix it. I really do love him, but is it healthy for me to stay with him? Or should I try to move on with my life? It’s true that I’ve been unhappy for the past few months, even miserable at times,
but for years we were smitten together. Is it possible for us to ever get back there again? – Feeling Lost in Love Dear Feeling Lost, It’s not possible to go back to where you were, but it is possible to evolve into something new and more honest. My advice is to spend some time with him without rehashing all of the problems. Go out for some dinners and watch some movies. Cuddle up. Take a day trip. See if the romance is still there. If it isn’t, and you can’t be in the same room without bickering or feeling bad about yourself, then you have your answer. Sometimes the damage is just too great to get beyond. But if you find that you can enjoy each other and that the space has given your relationship new life, keep dat-
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November 22, 2013
Celebrating 40 Years!
ing. Then maybe visit that therapist once or twice to talk about what comes next. Usually, when it’s over, it’s over. But your situation is a bit trickier. You were in a longdistance relationship with him once upon a time when he was in the military. Then you were suddenly learning to live together and planning a wedding at the same time. Without all of the pressure and rushing, you just might thrive. You have to find out whether you’re trying to save something that’s still there, or if you’re just hanging on to history. Explain to him that you just want to enjoy him without all of the pressure. Find out if that’s possible. The past is a dead thing – it’s done and over with. Live in the now and look forward to the future. Hope this helps. Remember, be true to you, love yourself, encourage yourself and others. – D Dear D, I’m considered a pretty nice person, which at times is not good. Yes, I have gotten the whole “You’re too nice” malarkey several times. And no, this is not one of those “I’m too nice, I hate my life” stories. No, I’m not like that. I don’t play that card – I find it pathetic. But every once in a while I wish I could be more of a jerk. I’m a single person in my late 20s. I love my independence. I do things for myself and answer to no one. Would I like to have a significant other? Sure, if it’s right, but right now I have other priorities. So, a couple weeks ago, I hooked up with
this girl and she stayed over. Sweet, right? Wrong. I’ve known this person for a long time and had a sense that she liked me but I wanted no part of her beyond what we were doing that night and made that explicitly clear. Before anything physical began I reviewed the ground rules (this is what it is and not anything more, I don’t want you calling me all the time, I will not visit you, I do not feel for you romantically, this is just a hook-up, etc., etc.). And now I am
isfy an urge, and now this has become my life. My friends think this is hilarious, but she’s even annoying them. Any breakup or parting of ways, aside from a couple nasty heartbreaks, has either been mutual, cordial, or ended by passive disinterest. I have never had to resort to being a jerk to get rid of someone and I really do not want start now. I feel like that might be my only resort unless you can figure out an alternative. – Blowing Up My Phone
It’s not possible to go back to where you were, but it is possible to evolve into something new and more honest. being mercilessly bombarded with numerous daily texts, phone calls, Facebook chat messages and wall posts, she’s friended my friends … I hate when my cellphone buzzes. Seriously, it’s NONSTOP. I’ve reminded her of my pre-bedroom riot act speech but nothing changed. Currently I’m ignoring her and it’s not working. So, this where the whole “nice” thing comes in. I’m not totally unaccustomed to clingers, but this is for sure a hum-dinger clinger! I usually have good radar for them, but I definitely let my guard down to sat-
Dear Blowing Up, Feel free to cut out this next paragraph and e-mail it to your clinger: Dear [insert clinger’s name here], This is a difficult e-mail to write. I’m concerned about our friendship. I allowed our relationship to become physical a few weeks ago and it was probably a mistake. I’ve been noticing that you’re contacting me a lot more often than you used to, and while I think that you’re a great person, I
just can’t be the friend/partner you’re looking for. I’m starting to feel guilty when I don’t pick up the phone, and when I do pick up the phone, I’m afraid that it means more than it should. I think that we should take some space to figure out how to make our relationship more like it used to be. I care about you and don’t want to hurt you. But I also want to be honest and make it clear that I was happy with what we had before we crossed that line. I hope you understand. For now, let’s keep our distance and give each other some space. Sincerely, [your name here] This falls somewhere between passive and jerky and makes it possible for you to block her on Facebook and to ignore her calls without feeling as though you’re disappearing without explanation. Just be clear about what you need, and do it respectfully. It’s called being empathetic and assertive. You’re capable. Sometimes no matter how you handle it, you just can’t win. A situation like this one is up to how the other person views it. Hopefully, she can see that you are being genuine and trying to preserve what you had. Remember that time heals all wounds, so give her some space to readjust to this new information. In the meantime, take note of what you have done by crossing this line, and consider it a lesson learned. Hope this helps. Remember, be true to you, love yourself, encourage yourself and others. – D
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Seattle Gay News 21
22 Seattle Gay News
November 22, 2013
Celebrating 40 Years!
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Seattle Gay News 23