April 2013
BaltimoreGayLife.com
Tona Brown
GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.
Love it.
Trans Women Get to know
Jessica Blum, Barbara Sherman, Bryanna Jenkins, and Kayla Jones
The Trans Woman's
TOP TEN Transgender Legal Resources and Outreach
from Free State Legal Project
ALSO...
Lotta Art, Slipping, & Sunrize
Transgender violinist and host of web series "Conversations with Tona Brown"
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GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
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GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
IN THIS GAY LIFE
LOCAL LIFE
APRIL 2013
7 GLCCB's Interim ED
Welcome Center Opens
8 Archive Project By Denise Duarte
16 Trans Women of Maryland
HIGH LIFE
Meet four local women who are making a difference in their own lives and the lives of others.
10 Jenning's Café
By Querin Brown and Paige Hunter
13 Lotta Art Show
17 FSLP Offers Trans Help Direct legal aid for low-income LGBT Marylanders includes name changes and much more.
By John Cullen with Marty Shayt By Frankie Kujawa
14 Iron Crow's Slipping By Joseph Ritsch
15 Sunrize at Creative Alliance
By Dan McEvily
REAL LIFE
20 National & International News
By Rachel Roth
OUR LIFE
23 The Locket
By Gwendolyn Ann Smith
BETTER LIFE
28 Queer Health: For Trans Women By Alicia Gabriel
18 Pushing Past the Binary A primer on how to look beyond “male” and “female.” By Paige Hunter and Gary Wolnitzek
19 Sexual Violence in the LGBT Community
How our community is affected by assault, and what you can do.
By Sarah Prager
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
SOCIAL LIFE
29 BSCENE: BProud Awards Happy Hour
Photos by Bill Hughes & Richelle Taylor
30 Datebook
By Rachel Roth
APRIL 2013
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EDITOR’S LIFE
Constant Changes As Gay Life goes to press, the Supreme Court is slated to review the Defense of Marriage Act and California’s Proposition 8. We know that opinions on marriage are shifting (p. 20) and it’s exciting to watch this history unfold. It is imperative that both public outlook and the laws on the books change for the better. Speaking of change, a group of volunteers at the GLCCB are perusing the changes that have taken place in our community over the last few decades as they work to preserve and document Gay Life archives. Read all about the LGBTQ History Committee and check out some of the covers and headlines from 30 years of Gay Life (p. 8). More changes at the GLCCB include the official opening of our ground floor Welcome Center where the community is invited and encouraged to visit (p. 7). The GLCCB staff is also excited to welcome our new
interim Executive Director Matt Thorn. Already well known throughout the community, Matt will be an asset to the Center, and we’re glad we are able to put his expertise to use for us here. This issue also highlights a few constants: Dining Out features Jenning’s Café, a staple of the Catonsville community for generations (p. 10). Plus, local artists are about to participate in the 21st annual Lotta Art show (p. 13). This event is a great way to see lots of local art in one place, and the lottery-style auction is certainly one of the most fun ways to acquire a piece of your own.
MAGGIE BEETZ
Editor
ON THE COVER
Transgender violinist and web series host Tona Brown.
FACEBOOK.COM/GLCCB • TWITTER.COM/GLCCB • YOUTUBE.COM/THEGLCCB Maggie Beetz, Editor editor@baltimoregaylife.com M. Cory Burgess, Art Director cory@metroscapemedia.com Sabre Chase, Advertising sales@baltimoregaylife.com
GAYLIFE Read it. Live it.
Love it.
241 W. Chase Street Baltimore, MD 21201 410.777.8145 Phone 410.777.8135 Fax sales@baltimoregaylife.com www.baltimoregaylife.com
National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Marty Shayt, Senior Volunteer Contributors Querin Brown, John Cullen, Denise Duarte, Alicia Gabriel, Paige Hunter, Frankie Kujawa, Dan McEvily, Sarah Prager, Joseph Ritsch, Rachel Roth, Marty Shayt, Gwendolyn Ann Smith, Gary Wolnitzek
Photographers Bill Hughes, Richelle Taylor, Jay W. Magazine Committee Sharon Brackett, John Cullen, Daniel McEvily, Doug Rose, Emily Salinas, Marty Shayt, Gary Wolnitzek
Gay Life is a publication of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Central Maryland (GLCCB). Gay Life is published monthly in Baltimore, Md., with distribution throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Copyright 2013. All Rights Reserved. Gay Life is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of Gay Life or its publisher.
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GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
LOCAL LIFE
GLCCB Announces Interim Executive Director The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Community Center of Baltimore and Maryland (GLCCB) announced the appointment of Matthew Thorn to the role of interim executive director. Thorn assumed his position effective March 12, 2013. In this appointment, the GLCCB’s board of directors is moving to reaffirm the role that the GLCCB plays in the LGBTQ community. “The Board of Directors of the GLCCB feels strongly that Matt Thorn’s skills and experience will be a real benefit to the organization as its new executive director,” said Board President Mike McCarthy. “While we are sad to lose him as a board member, we are thrilled that he has stepped up to the challenge of guiding the GLCCB through what promises to be an exciting period. Matt’s devotion to the GLCCB and the greater commitment that he is showing by becoming executive director are going to be critical factors in the success of the GLCCB.” Thorn is a leading fundraising and nonprofit management professional. For nearly the last decade his work has consisted of a diversity of areas including the homeless, the arts, education, the developmentally disabled, politics and elections, and LGBT issues. He started his fundraising work with numerous local, state, and federal candidates raising funds for their election campaigns through online and social media (at the time a new concept). Since beginning his work on election campaigns, Thorn has focused much of his tenure and professional life on nonprofit organizations and issue-oriented campaigns. Thorn has raised over $18 million dollars for organizations and candidates and has directed two capital campaigns totaling $30 million. The GLCCB’s Gary Wolnitzek, who has been serving in a director capacity after the departure of former Executive Director Craig Wiley, will reassume his role as program director. “I’d like to be the first to congratulate the board on making this pivotal and key decision in moving the GLCCB toward
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
The ground floor at The GLCCB now offers an information desk, free bookstore, and computer lab
better fiscal health,” said Wolnitzek. “Congratulations to Matt Thorn as well on this appointment. I sincerely believe Matt brings the skills and resources necessary to diversify the funding streams that support the GLCCB’s mission and core services.” Thorn has most recently served as director of development at Equality Maryland; he also served as one of the national co-chairs for the National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change. Thorn currently serves as a member of the Victory Fund Campaign Board and president of the Steering Committee for PFLAG Howard County. Thorn is a graduate of The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where he earned his bachelor’s in International Relations. “I am looking forward to strengthening the Center and bringing its programs, services, and outreach into the 21st century,” said Thorn. “As we begin to achieve full equality with marriage and gender identity non-discrimination laws across the country, we as a community must look inward to those who continue to need our support and services. For example, we aim to address the epidemic rate of homeless LGBT youth, build on programming for LGBT elders, and work toward transgender nondiscrimination, education, and upholding the laws that currently in effect.”
The GLCCB Opens Welcome Center Beginning April 1, The GLCCB, your LGBT community center in Mt. Vernon, will open its ground floor to the public from noon-6pm on weekdays (noon-3pm Tuesdays). This space now houses a modern computer lab and a free bookstore with thousands of mostly LGBT-themed books. So come by and take a break, read a book, do school work, or use the internet and Wi-Fi in a welcoming environment. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to direct visitors and callers to support services and community resources, as well as provide information on local Baltimore businesses and social events. Book donations are welcomed during business hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit our website, GLCCB.org, and click “Get Involved.” Come by and check us out!
THE GLCCB
241 W. Chase St. M, W, Th, F: 12-6pm Tuesdays: 12-3pm W410.777.8145 T GLCCB.org
APRIL 2013
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LOCAL LIFE
Archive Project Preserves Decades of Baltimore's LGBT History BY DENISE R. DUARTE It is a rare opportunity to hold archives in your hands and know that your efforts will be part of LGBTQ history. But that is exactly what is happening at The GLCCB, right now, for a group of very dedicated volunteers. Gay Life has been published by The GLCCB for the last 34 years. Recently, the LGBTQ History Committee finished organizing and inventorying all of the publication’s back issues. This collection of Gay Life represents a history of Baltimore and—because The GLCCB is one of the country's oldest LGBTQ community centers—the history of the nation. In early 2012, artist and activist Denise R. Duarte and The GLCCB’s Gary Wolnitzek accessed the randomly stacked and unboxed array of back issues taking over the unfinished portion of the GLCCB’s attic. They knew that creating organized, scanned, digitized versions available for free to the greater community would be an enormous undertaking. Now we see the dream becoming a reality. Duarte, the initial LGBTQ History Committee Chair, made saving the collection a personal priority. She and a small, but growing, group of volunteers have been coming together to sort, organize, and inventory the collection. It is an effort that would not be possible if not for GLCCB Senior Volunteer Marty Shayt, who had taken care to save copies of each new issue to the collection over the years. Despite a handful of missing issues, the collection is nearly complete. “Our goal is to have a complete set for the collection,” explained Duarte, “This is one of the oldest, continuously published LGBTQ publications in the nation and we would love to have a digital copy of each issue.” The next phase is to properly conserve the collection in archival folders and boxes, with the eventual goal of digitization and providing research access, which PAGE 8
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the volunteers estimate will occur in 2015, assuming they can raise adequate funding for the project. The team is writing grants and exploring additional fundraising opportunities. The first publication (then called The Gay Paper) printed in April, 1979, is a black and white newsletter. That newsletter transformed into a myriad of various versions of itself over the years, to today’s full color, monthly lifestyle magazine. “The newspapers really connect you to the past. They show you how far things have come,” said current Committee Chair Patrick Alexander. “Yet many of the
“This is history that only exists in its physical form right now. If it’s not cared for, it will disappear.” headlines from 20 or 30 years ago involve issues we’re still dealing with today. The LGBT community has come a long way, but there is still much work to be done.” Archive Project Manager Arnie VandeBrake offers a contemporary perspective: “Nowadays, people, especially young people, are so used to having everything at their fingertips and easily accessible. Information is instantly accessible, and you don’t have to worry that it will go away—it exists forever in a digital space. I think that makes this project so important. This is history that only exists in its physical form right now. If it’s not cared for, it will disappear. It will disintegrate.” Jill Stromberg, GLCCB Board Member and volunteer values the collection: “By preserving these artifacts and pieces in history, not only are we giving voice to many of those who no longer have it—we are also equipping our current 'LGBTQA+/Queer' generation with the knowledge and vision that our mentors
Help Save History!
The History Committee is missing the following back issues of The Gay Paper/Gay Life. If you have any of these issues, please contact Denise at 702.372.3755. Anything before April 1979 Individual issues: September 1979 November 1979 March 1981 June 1981 April 1984 December 1984 August 19, 1988 January 20, 1989 August 18, 1989 December 15, 1989 January 19, 1990 May 4, 1990
August 17, 1990 January 18, 1991 April 30, 1993 March 18, 1994 February 7, 1997 February 21, 1997 March 7, 1997 April 18, 1997 August 19, 1999 October 14, 1999 July 8, 2005 July 22, 2005 August 5, 2005 August 19, 2005 October 14, 1999 July 8, 2005
July 22, 2005 August 5, 2005 August 19, 2005 September 2, 2005 September 16, 2005 September 30, 2005 October 14, 2005 May 12, 2006 July 21, 2006 September 1, 2006 December 7, 2006 January 12, 2007 February 6, 2009 February 20, 2009 April 17, 2009 January 7, 2011
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
and our elders had. This will only be another tool in our belt to move forward in creating the positive change that they worked for, and many died for.” The main requirement for the History Committee is that the needs of the collection come first, but they try to have fun while working on them. Alexander echoes this sentiment, “I started working on the newspaper archive project because I wanted to get involved at The GLCCB with something I thought was important and meaningful to Baltimore’s LGBT community. The history of our community is documented within those newspapers BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
and it is imperative that they be preserved.” VandeBrake sums up the project’s value: “The most immediately obvious and unmistakable takeaway from having all of these issues in one place and finally put in order is the evolution of the conversations about gay and lesbian issues. You can hold an issue from 25 years ago next to one from last month and you’ll be able to find the same questions being asked, while others would no longer be on anyone’s radar. It can be equally startling to see what issues are no longer in question as it is to realize the issues we’re still fighting for after all this time.” APRIL 2013
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HIGH LIFE
DINING OUT
Jenning’s Café Remains a True Baltimore Treasure BY JOHN CULLEN WITH MARTY SHAYT Jennings’s Café was opened in 1958 by Omar Jennings after he sold his interest in the renowned Pimlico Hotel. Fiftyfive years later, his great-grandson, Omar Jennings III, owns and runs the café that bears the family name. The founder’s interest in horses is evident as you enter from the rear parking lot with a large horse’s head on the side as well as from a gallery of photos featuring the original Mr. Jennings with winning horses at Pimlico Race track. (The glass case with a taxidermied squirrel just inside the door remains a mystery!) Inside there’s a long, frequently filled bar and two dining rooms with knotty pine paneling that reminds Marty of classic Baltimore “club basements.” Red seems to be a big decorating theme with bright red top tables and red lighting fixtures (and red bulbs!). Jenning’s menu features Baltimorefavored comfort food. Maryland crab soup and oyster stew (in season) are featured. Traditional salads include chef, Greek, and Caesar ($8-9; add grilled chicken for $3). A dozen appetizers include standards like wings and potato skins but also fried chicken livers and rockfish bites (most $6-9). There are more than 20 sandwiches and wraps ($6-9, served with chips and a pickle; fries $1 extra) and include some uncommon options like “fried egg” and “Braunschweiger” sandwiches. There are a couple dozen entrees which typically come with choice of two sides (most $10-16). Our favorite appetizer is the wings, which come in flavors like BBQ, teriyaki,
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Old Bay, or hot. We like the hot which is tangy with a bit of heat; our biggest problem is trying to equally share 10 wings with three or four friends! We also tried the fried chicken livers, which Marty gave another “Thumbs Up” (undeterred by what his doc would say about these cholesterolheavy goodies!). Picking a main course here isn’t easy! Marty’s a fan of the shrimp salad sandwich ($11) which is stuffed thick with big pieces of shrimp and nicely seasoned with Old Bay. John likes the fried chicken basket ($9) which comes with four pieces of chicken in mild breading and fries. He also recommends the meatloaf, which comes with a choice of mashed or fried potatoes ($10) and the chicken Parmesan ($13). The cucumbers and onions are a great side item to try. Our friend Tom gives his “Thumbs Up!” to the chicken pot pie, which comes in a large oval baking dish filled with chunks of white meat chicken and vegetables under a thick homemade crust (which at $9 is a real bargain!) If you’re lucky and it’s not sold out, the coconut cake ($6) is scrumptious and gets John’s “Thumbs Up!” The rice pudding ($3) with whipped cream and a cherry on top puts a smile on Marty’s face; he swears it is as good as his mom used to make! Service here is wonderful. Peggy, who has worked here longer than it is polite to ask about, is an institution at Jennings. There are photos and cartoons of her in the back dining room where she’s known to “hold court.” Zagat named her “Baltimore’s Best Waitress” in 2004. Jenning’s Café may not win awards for its trendy kitchen or red clubroom décor, but we just like this place and we keep coming back to this Baltimore original.
JENNING’S CAFÉ
808 Frederick Rd. (Catonsville) W410.744.3824 T JenningsCafe.com Open Mon-Sat 11:30am-11:30pm Full bar • Free parking in rear Email DiningOut@BaltimoreGayLife.com and find all prior reviews at BaltimoreGayLife-DiningOut.info.
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HIGH LIFE
ART
Fabulous Art Benefit Showcases LGBT Talent 21ST ANNUAL LOTTA ART SHOW HOLDS FUN FOR LOCAL ARTISTS AND ART LOVERS BY FRANKIE KUJAWA You’ve gotta have art—and heart—at School33’s annual Lotta Art Benefit and Exhibition this April at Baltimore’s Silo Point. Now in its 21st year, the fundraiser features works by local artists who generously donate their work to the benefit. Each art ticket holder is guaranteed a work of art in a lottery-style drawing. Guest ticket holders get to enjoy appetizers, cocktails, and a fun auction atmosphere full of artists and fellow art lovers alike. All proceeds benefit School33’s Art Center, which serves as a beacon of creativity for the community. School33 is dedicated to providing opportunities for artists through workshops, a Studio Artist Program, special events, and more. Gay Life recently spoke with three local LGBT artists, who shared both their entrancing works and the creative thought processes that went into this year’s donations. “School 33 has been an arts anchor in this city for three decades,” explained artist Jordan Tierney. “It has continued to make Baltimore a better place through exhibits, classes, and networking with colleagues. I am honored to have my studio in the building.” Tierney donated her work Passage, a mixed media collage on sculpted wood, which will be exhibited at the benefit. “I have been making collages for 30 years,” she said. “They have gotten more and more textured as the years go by. This one is very three dimensional as it is done on pieces of wood I sculpted. The collage elements are sewing patterns, maps, [and] an old engraving. Most of my work is about journeys and transitions, stress and release.” This year’s benefit will be the second time for artist Jeremy Crawford. BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Lotta Art at Silo Point Photo by René Treviño
“School 33 is one of Baltimore’s top art spaces, and it is my honor as an artist to be able to support them by donating my work,” said Crawford, whose works stem from a strong sense of inner consciousness, combined with his own personal commentary on many of earth’s dilemmas—be they war, consumerism, politics, religion, family, or death. He donated the portrait Extreme Couponer, which is loosely based on these concepts. “[Lotta Art] is a great way to meet other artists, collectors, dealers, and fans from around the area, to get their feedback and to gage the climate of the art scene here in Baltimore.” Artist Kini Collins donated her work Anamnesis from her current School 33 collection. “Lotta Art is important because in addition to supporting a valued Baltimore art institution, it’s a whole lot of fun,” she said. Her donated piece is an abstracted landscape which describes Collins’ memories of the Sacred Valley in Peru. “I used hand-colored tissue paper, charcoal, crayon, wax, and fire in this body of work.” The desire of these artists to give back to their community showcases not only their works of art, but also their heart.
Extreme Couponer, 2007, 8" x 8" (with various angles) mixed media on wood panel by Jeremy Crawford
Passage, a mixed media collage on sculpted wood, 19.5" x 19.5" x 6" by Jordan Tierney
LOTTA ART BENEFIT
Saturday, April 20 Cocktail Buffet & Art Viewing 5:30pm Drawing 6:30pm Guest ticket: $50 • Art ticket: $175 ($150 for members or before April 5) Silo Point • 1200 Steuart St. T SiloPoint.com • School33.org
Jeremy Crawford
Photo by Rebekah McLain
APRIL 2013
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HIGH LIFE
ON STAGE
Slipping Writer Daniel Talbott
Iron Crow Theatre Presents Slipping
A COMING-OF-AGE STORY FOR THE HOPELESSLY OUT OF PLACE BY JOSEPH RITSCH
Iron Crow Theatre’s current production of Slipping is a heartbreaking love story for our time—at times violent, jagged, and dark, but always pierced by beauty and hope. Slipping is the coming-of-age story of Eli. When the death of his father forces him to move from San Francisco to Iowa with his university professor mother, he is hopelessly out of place in his new high school. Struggling with grief and the distance he feels from everyone, especially his mom, the attention of another boy may be just what Eli needs, and far more than he can bear. “It is a play about love and how it is so hard for so many of us to face it, to stare it in the face, to know what to do with it,” writes activist and playwright Larry Kramer in the play’s foreword, “especially when we are young, but not only then.” Slipping is directed by Iron Crow’s Artistic Director Steven J. Satta-Fleming and performed by company member Michele Minnick (Love & Human Remains, Parallel Lives) as well as three talented young actors, Tanner Medding (Iron Crow debut), Rich Buchanan (The Soldier Dreams) and Christopher H. Zargarbashi (Love & Human Remains, Swimming in the Shallows). Slipping’s writer, Daniel Talbott, is a playwright, director and actor as well as the artistic director of Rising Phoenix Rep in New York. Talbott is currently on
the west coast directing the Los Angeles premier of Slipping. He was with Iron Crow the first weekend of rehearsals and will return during the production run to give a talk-back after the April 11 performance. Gay Life recently spoke to Talbott about the play and what it means to him. Where did the inspiration for Slipping come from, and for you what is this play about? Slipping is about a ton of things for me, and a ton of relationships in my life, but its heart is definitely in my relationship with my best friend in high school. I grew up all over the place as a kid with my mom and brothers and sisters, and then I landed with my grandparents in Piedmont, Calif., for the end of middle school and for high school. At the end of middle school I lost someone very close to me, and that sent me on a huge tailspin. I think after years of insanity growing up, and dealing with immense depression, I finally walled myself in, in a lot of ways, and cut myself off from people. My best friend loved me unconditionally and bravely, and man did we fight and try to be with each other. I feel I owe so much to our relationship and that he helped break that walled-in-ness apart, and helped me start to feel like I could reach out in a lot of ways. I think the play
Slipping at Iron Crow Theatre
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for me is about great love, which doesn’t always feel good or work, and great fight. I think he and I fought so hard to love one another, and again I don’t think I’d have the life I have now without those years. I’m so thankful to him for going down a path with me, and for holding my hand as I faced that, and I hope I was able to do the same for him. As I get older I think I understand more and more how rare, deep, and difficult it is to find someone who truly has your back and is proud to walk down the street with you regardless, to find someone who will embrace your damage as much as the light you bring. I hope the play is about that kind of love and struggle, and is a celebration of how hard we tried. Can you talk a little bit about labels of sexuality, how we get labeled, and how those labels have affected you? I think labels in general can allow a laziness and a letting off of the hook that’s dangerous. I think for people in minorities of many kinds, the owning of a label can symbolize a stand and a unified purpose, but overall I think they allow us not to truly go there, they block our exploration of how complicated each of us are. I’ve never been profoundly blown away, moved, or inspired by someone because of a label attached to them. I’ve always been touched in those ways because of someone’s actions or deeds, and I really attempt to live my life that way. I fail at it constantly, but man I try. If I’m asked to describe myself or my sexuality, I try to say bisexual because I love sex with girls and I also have loved sex with guys, and throughout my life I’ve always been crazy
attracted to both. Because of that, I’ve had many people throw a ton of different things at me, and I’ve heard tons of things said about me to my face and behind my back and then second hand, things based on a concept of who or what I should be, and what labels apply to me. It’s sad to me how scared we all are all the time, and how derogatory labels continue to let us bitterly foster our fear and not face it with compassion. I guess my label would be proud theater/film work obsessed nerd who loves dolphins and whales and tennis, and especially my family and friends. What do you want the audience to walk out of the theater with after seeing Slipping? I hope there’s something honest it for them. I hope it’s about love and the struggle that can come with it, and also the fears we all fight against every day in different ways that cause us to be both heroic at times and cruel and unforgiving at others. In the end I hope it’s about reaching out and being brave. I think love and compassion, vulnerability and loyalty, are radical acts—especially when they don’t come easy—and I hope the play holds those things in a lot of ways.
SLIPPING
March 30-April 13 • 8pm • $15 (Sunday, April 7 • 7pm) Baltimore Theatre Project 45 W. Preston St. W443.637.2769 T IronCrowTheatre.com Contains adult themes, language, and nudity
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
Delivering Us From Darkeness: Sunrize Set to Illuminate the Stage at Creative Alliance BY DANIEL MCEVILY
With a song in her heart, a kick in her step, and a name begging to be seen in lights (on a freeway at least), Sunrize Highway will roll onto the Creative Alliance stage April 26 for a one-night only engagement filled with Broadway showtunes and plenty of bravado. Described as a seven foot, redheaded comedy hit, Sunrize is the creation of Iron Crow co-artistic director Joseph Ritsch. Ritsch recently spoke to Gay Life to reveal all things on the sunny side of Sunrize. Tell us a little bit about Sunrize and what people can expect at the upcoming show at Creative Alliance? I’ve been doing Sunrize for about 15 years now. I knew I wanted to do something that explored that persona of Broadway leading ladies, and what I ended up doing was a one-woman cabaret show that intertwined their musical careers with their personal lives, particularly people like Liza Minelli and early Shirley MacLaine.
I always thought it was such a fascinating genre. The show is itself about Sunrize’s life and times told through story and song. I knew I wanted to use music from Broadway shows but I didn’t want it to just be a concert, so I definitely chose music that ties into the monologues about Sunrize’s life in the business and growing up. What three adjectives would you use to best describe Sunrize? Endearing, naive, and invincible. I think drag is such an interesting art form and although I performed quite a bit in drag when I lived in New York City, I was never a club drag performer. Because of singing live and because of the show, I think of it so much more so as a theater piece than a drag act. For me, it’s a character and she happens to be female. She refers to herself as female. You’ve been performing Sunrize for quite some time. How has the character and the
show changed over time? I don’t know if she’s changed all that much. I feel like the change comes more with audience to audience of the show, because it’s very much broken fourth wall, this kind of direct address to the audience, and obviously that energy can get totally different. So for me, it’s one of the things that keeps it very fresh and still interesting after all of this time. It seems Sunrize enjoys a short skirt. How did the costuming/visual for the character come into fruition. Yeah, I always tend to go sort of short. I was a professional dancer for a number of years and I’ve luckily been able to maintain my legs from that. One of the things that makes her most endearing is that she thinks she’s a lot more successful than she actually is. So she thinks she looks kind of classy and ready for Vegas, but she’s not quite there. So I try to go with stuff that’s kind of flashy but a little on the trashy side of things. A little less Vegas Strip and a little more Downtown Vegas? Or I would say, a little more Atlantic City. [Laughs] You will have some guests as part of the show, including Adam Cooley and the Warren Sisters. What is their role in the show? Adam is a friend of mine. We cast him in an Iron Crow production last year called Bad Panda that I directed and we became really good friends. He was asked to do a one night only cabaret at Creative Alliance to celebrate World AIDS Day in December and he asked Sunrize to be a guest for that. I got a really great response and the creative director wanted to bring me back to do the whole show, but my show is only a little over an hour, so she suggested doing a short opening set. So Adam is going to perform and host and a trio called the Warren Sisters will be there. They’re Stillpointe Theatre company members and they’ve come up with this sort of crazy macabre Andrews Sisters act. Creative Alliance wanted to keep it a queer, GLBT evening—Adam is gay and the Warren Sisters definitely have a queer sensibility.
SUNRIZE HIGHWAY W/ SUNRIZE: THE MUSICAL
with Adam Cooley, The Warren Sisters and Special Guests April 26 • 8 pm • $10-15 Creative Alliance • 3134 Eastern Ave. T CreativeAlliance.org
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TransWomen
of Baltimore
In this issue we are spotlighting local trans women. These are women who have gone on a journey of discovery and self acceptance and are now working behind the scenes in our neighborhoods to help others learn and grow. Your journey might benefit from the many groups and resources available to local trans women; but these women demonstrate that finding oneself can also be done outside of support groups, whether that involves sailing on the Chesapeake Bay, traveling with loved ones, exploring your thespian side, or stepping up to become a community leader. Only about one percent of the population is thought to be transgender, and here is an even smaller sliver of that subset. But if these women are representative of the local trans population, Maryland is a very lucky state. We will spotlight local trans men in a subsequent issue. If you or someone you know are interested in appearing in Gay Life, please contact editor@baltimoregaylife.com.
Jessica
Jessica Blum I live in the county but I run a mental health wellness and recovery center, Heart and Ears, in the heart of Mt. Vernon. Ultimately, I like to think of myself as an activist and I take great personal interest in the status and rights of transgender individuals in both Baltimore and Maryland in general. One of my greatest challenges has been dealing with my own gender transition and the impact it has had on my social, family, and professional life. Since coming to terms with my gender identity, I’ve attempted to help other trans people achieve their goals as well. When I am not working, I like to relax by traveling with my girlfriend both locally and around town. I also like popular film, though I don’t get to go to the movies nearly as often as I would like to. Like a lot of other people, I am sort of an internet addict probably due to starting out in a career in computing. When all else fails, I enjoy frequenting local Baltimore restaurants and trying some of the numerous local cuisines the area has to offer. Meeting new and interesting people
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Barbara for personal and professional networking has also always been a passion of mine.
Barbara Sherman I would say that self-acceptance was one of my greatest challenges. I struggled with this for many years, although I did learn a lot about myself along the way. One of the major things I learned was that if I did not love myself for who I was, it was nearly impossible to show love and affection for those that I loved and cared deeply about. In learning this basic principle, I finally came to a place of self-acceptance in my late 40s and began my transition. I have lived in the northeastern suburbs of Baltimore all my life. I don’t think that I could ever move from here. I like the changing seasons, the bay, and all that this area has to offer. There are those times when I just need to get away from all the noise around me; that’s when I head for my sailboat. There is such peace and solitude out on the water, whether I need time alone with my thoughts to sort things out or I am out with friends, it is
Bryanna always relaxing and fun. I also enjoy trail running. From where I live I can be deep in the woods running, out on my boat, or downtown hanging out with friends in just a matter of 15 to 20 minutes. Giving back to our community brings me great joy. I now moderate the Tranquility support group for MtF transgender persons at The GLCCB on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month at 8pm. I strongly urge anyone struggling with being transgender to come. You do not have to struggle alone as many of us have. You will be welcomed no matter where you are in your struggle or how you present.
Bryanna Jenkins By Querin Brown
Maryland native and transgender woman Bryanna Jenkins recognized a need for leadership and innovation within the LGBT community and began to organize and contribute to various nonprofit efforts designed to give trans people informative and connected community outreach programs. Jenkins, who is earn-
Kayla ing her master’s degree in legal and ethical studies at University of Baltimore, has worked regularly with retired teacher and transgender advocate, Monica Stevens. Stevens’ group, Sistas of the “T,” holds meetings where attendees discuss discrimination, housing, substance use, mental health, life after surgery, re-emerging in a new social role, and life skills. Jenkins has also been a facilitator/speaker at the Transgender Health Conference. “Some transgenders I have encountered think they will die young and that society will not accept them,” explained Jenkins. “Some are conditioned not to want more for themselves. Folks have trouble finding and keeping jobs, connecting with others in similar life situations and seeing it may be easy for them to change their names, but an adjustment in attitude may be more difficult.” Jenkins is in the planning stages of a program called YouCan BMore, a fivepart seminar with a focus on workplace training and HIV resources. Bryanna plans on completing her degree and continuing her advocacy through public speaking and continuing to create community outreach programs.
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
Kayla Jones By Paige Hunter
“My play opened up earlier this week,” Kayla Jones’ voice is excited over the phone. It’s around midterms in University of Baltimore’s academic calendar, and Jones is busy with studies and taking part in plays and the arts—and loving it. She’s excited about the support she’s getting from directors and producers in the theater department and the academic atmosphere in general. It is only her second semester, and she is already interested in psychology. “I was the designated advice friend, so thought I’d train for it as a job,” Jones explained. “But I found out through my classes that I may not be suited for one-on-one sessions: plus, I want to reach more people.” She plans on combining her interests in writing with her interest in what motivates people’s behaviors, and is excited about that prospect. Her possibilities are broader than she even expected, and she was expecting a lot to begin with. She wants change and understanding, for herself and others. It’s a far cry, she said, from what many trans women of color in Baltimore seem to be locked into: prostitution, discrimination, violence and danger and streets that seem to be empty of promise. “Many areas, many people, there’s this
assumption that that’s all there is: that all they’re going to do in life is be a whore. Or, if they’re not on the streets, that the only jobs they can get are minimum wage, flipping burgers or hanging up clothes, they’ll be stuck there, that’s all there is, if they can get [those jobs] at all. And we get stuck thinking that too—trans ladies, especially trans ladies of color, we buy into all those fears, all that hopelessness.” Jones describes breaking out of that thinking as “getting new eyes.” Priorities change, and once she turned 25 she started thinking about her future. The GLCCB’s Sistas of the “T” group helped her with that, she said. Many groups throughout other cities and towns that dealt with transgender populations often did not have leaders that were transgender: partly because of that, there were misunderstandings. Some groups just focused on getting people in the door and in the seats—some just focused on HIV/ AIDS, as if that were the only issue. With the Sistas of the T, it was a group for trans ladies—specifically trans ladies of color—run by a T-lady of color who had gone through transition, who understood the importance of addressing STIs and HIV and addictions, but also other issues such as negotiating work and resumes and disclosures. Every day was a new day. Focus was on change and empowerment, not disease and fear.
Sistas of the “T ” Sistas of the “T” is an independent network of transgender women who believe that self-empowerment is the key to our solutions. We also believe that through developing sisterhoods and through the use of positive reinforcement, we as transgender women can best help other transgender women achieve personal success! Sistas of the T offers support groups, workshops, advocacy and leadership development, networking opportunities, and peer support. Those interested in Sistas of the "T" are encouraged to read more about the group by visiting their website at SistasOfTheT.com. Check back for information about a Sistas event this May.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SISTA BEHIND SISTAS OF THE "T"!
Check out a recent interview with founder Monica Stevens. Stevens sat down with famed violinist Tona Brown, in Brown’s new web series, “Conversations with Tona Brown.” This twopart interview includes Monica’s path toward self realization, her experiences with drugs, religious cults, and therapy, and what it’s like growing up in a world that does not yet have a name for—let alone understanding of—“transgender.” Find them on YouTube.com. Check back with “Conversations with Tona Brown” for her next interview with another Baltimore activist, Cydne Kimbrough.
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Monica
Tona
FreeState Legal Offers Trans Resources and Outreach By Daniel McEvily
With regard to legal matters, the trans community faces a unique set of challenges. Fortunately, the FreeState Legal Project has stepped up to help. FreeState provides direct legal aid to low-income lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Maryland residents. Operating out of the GLCCB building in Mt. Vernon, FreeState Legal Project is led by Executive Director Aaron S. Merki. The organization began in 2007 when Merki and several other attorneys met to discuss the lack of legal service providers that catered to LGBT individuals in Maryland. Since its beginnings, FreeState has grown to include a network of nearly 100 pro bono volunteer attorneys. The primary types of cases Merki’s office sees with regard to trans clients ranges from a various forms of discrimination, including housing and employment cases, to name and gender changes. While name changes are a relatively straightforward legal process—anyone can get a name change, regardless of their gender identity—changing ones gender on drivers licenses and birth certificates is more complicated. According to current Maryland law, there is a surgical requirement in order to modify ones gender on their birth certificate. Costly sex reassignment surgeries are oftentimes simply too costly for lower income trans people, Merki notes. “A transgender woman, for instance, who has the financial resources, can afford surgery that will allow them to change their gender marker on their birth certificate, whereas low-income transgender women can’t,” said Merki. FreeState is currently looking into changing those legal requirements through both casework and legislative advocacy, arguing for a simpler form of definition and pulling from best practices, like receiving a letter from a physician and/ or a psychiatrist that states one has fully transitioned (regardless of surgery) and should be classified as the other gender. In addition to providing direct aid to lower income LGBT individuals, Free State also engages in several outreach and education efforts, including the recent formation of TAG (Transgender Action Group). The group was formed through the work of Free State, Jean-Michel Brevelle and Gregg Bernstein of the State’s Attorney office, and Jacqueline Robarge of Power Inside. The coalition includes
many organizations, including Homeless Persons Representation Project and volunteers from Johns Hopkins. TAG volunteers do sustainable outreach to transgender sex workers in the lower Charles Village neighborhood (North Avenue to 25th Street) and meet twice a month. The group goes on organized walks around the neighborhood doing basic outreach work, ranging from condom distribution to providing legal and housing services and resources. The biggest challenge that Merki has run into is engaging the LGBT community itself on issues that extend beyond marriage equality. “Marriage equality is not a panacea issue,” Merki explained. “There’s some “gay” fatigue following Question 6 and people need to understand that after every major civil rights victory comes a decades-long fight for true equality, justice, and socioeconomic equality. Brown v. Board didn’t solve all the world’s problems with respect to racial segregation. We’re still fighting for real racial equality, socio-economic based equality today.” Which is what the future holds for FreeState. “FreeState is gearing up to address the 90 percent of legal work that needs to be done following marriage equality, and most of that work pertains to low income people,” he said. With respect to transgender issues, the largest challenge the group has faced has been educating the bar and bench on trans issues, both legal and social. “Many trans people are so marginalized. While most people have met a gay or lesbian person, that’s not the case with trans people, so [we’re] bringing the legal community in Maryland up to speed with regard to trans clients,” said Merki. As part of Free State’s outreach and education components, they also have education initiatives focused on training lawyers. “When we talk about systemic discrimination, we can’t do one thing that’s going to change that—it requires ongoing, consistent, case-by-case work, so we’re putting together the army of attorneys that has to do the work every day now.”
FREESTATE LEGAL PROJECT
241 W. Chase St. 410.625.LGBT (5428) FreeStateLegalProject.org
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Edugraphic courtesy of Sam Killermann
Pushing Past the Binary 101: There's More than "Male" and “Female" By Paige Hunter and Gary Wolnitzek
As the LGBT community grows and evolves, segments of the community that were not previously well known or documented begin to gain awareness and acceptance. We see this more and more as the transgender community became, and continues to become, better known and understood as a part of our community and in the greater population now compared to even a decade ago. This evolution brings new terminologies, especially in younger generations. For example, terms like “nonbinary” and “genderqueer.” The idea of gender identity and feminine/masculine traits as points on a spectrum may not be unfamiliar. You may have seen this edugraphic before. But in the updated and tastier Genderbread person, there are multiple spectrums, allowing for PAGE 18
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multiple combinations. This means that individuals can identify at any point, in any combination. The Genderbread Person 2.0 edugraphic, designed by Sam Killermann of “It’s Pronounced Metrosexual,” might help show you. But just what do these terms mean?
easiest to see, as ‘expression’ might manifest in clothes, mannerisms, posture, and so on. Example: Jo’s gender expression is more masculine than feminine. That’s not to say Jo does not have any female traits at all but just that Jo is more comfortable with masculine expressions.
GENDER IDENTITY Gender identity
BIOLOGICAL SEX The combination of
lives in the brain. It’s influenced by many things, but gender identity is how a person thinks and feels about themselves in relationship to man-ness or woman-ness. Example: For each definition we explore we’re going to see how “Jo,” whom is genderqueer, further identifies. Genderqueer is Jo’s gender identity.
GENDER EXPRESSION This is the
genitalia (internal and external). It is not as simple as “penis = male” and “vagina = female,” as androgen sensitivity, ovarian issues, hysterectomies, and others can create more ambiguous combinations if one assigns gender to a particular set of genitalia. (However, paying attention to biological sex does help with health checkups and cancer screenings.) Example: Jo was born intersex with a
condition known as complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) which means that Jo was born with a vagina but does not have a uterus or ovaries.
ATTRACTION Who the person is at-
tracted to: this can likewise have combinations, ranging from not being interested in sex (but interested in romance/friendships), to being attracted to all shapes and sizes (pansexuality), and so on. Example: Jo is pansexual but more attracted to individuals with a masculine gender expression regardless of their gender identity or biological sex. These four components influence each other. It is best to ask individuals, respectfully, how they may identify: they know their thoughts, feelings, and body best. GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
Another Inequality: Sexual Violence in the LGBTQ Community BY SARAH PRAGER
The LGBTQ community is no stranger to the struggle for equality. Discrimination laws inclusion for trans folks, same-sex marriage equality, and making sure our kids are raised in an accepting education system have all been hot topics in Maryland in recent months. I want to take my space to talk to you about another area where we do not have equality. LGBTQ people experience violence at higher rates than non-LGBTQ individuals. Domestic violence isn’t just a husband beating his wife—it’s a woman threatening her girlfriend. Sexual violence isn’t just a man in a dark alley assaulting a woman—it’s a guy not taking no for an answer when a hook-up goes further than the other guy wants. Hate crimes aren’t just racially-motivated— they are committed against transgender people at some of the highest rates of any group. Sexual assault is already unreported in general; less than half of assaults ever come to light. The retelling of a painful experience, fear of not being believed, and embarrassment are all reasons why survivors of this crime may not come forward for medical treatment or a police report. LGBTQ survivors have even more barriers to reporting. Take “Carla” for example. She’s a high school student in Frederick. She’s been dating a girl for about a month now but she doesn’t know if she should tell her
parents or how. One day after school, a guy tells her that he wants to speak with her privately and they talk alone in a classroom. He tells her that he will tell her parents about her relationship if she doesn’t perform oral sex on him. Or take “Tom.” He’s recently moved in with his boyfriend to a Glen Oaks row house. His partner is popular, successful, and charming. After they’ve been living together for a few months, his partner begins to act more jealous and controlling. He doesn’t want Tom having friends because he worries he’ll get involved with them. One night Tom goes out with a friend for dinner anyway. When he gets home his boyfriend is furious and rapes Tom. Tom doesn’t know what to do. He wonders if he should go to the hospital or the police, but doesn’t want to get his partner in trouble or give the gay community a bad name. He’s not even sure if they’d understand what being gay means or that he didn’t want it. Those examples are stories that could happen, but here is one that really did: A transgender female respondent in a qualitative research study shared how prior to her transition she was raped as an 11-year-old boy by two older boys who said, “You wanna be a girl? Well this is how girls get treated.” And you might remember the headline-making case of the openly gay Baltimore 15-year-old Jason Mattison, Jr. He was raped and
murdered in 2009 in the Broadway East area. Police said that he had a “forced sexual relationship with” (in other words, was being repeatedly sexually assaulted by) the 35-year-old man who assaulted and killed him. Sexual violence affects our community at unequal levels, and we recently confirmed just how much. The CDC announced their first-ever findings on rates of sexual violence for lesbians, gays, and bisexuals in February. Here are some of the findings for their comprehensive 2012 national study: • 13 percent of lesbians and 17 percent of straight women have been raped in their lifetime. For bisexual women, a staggering 46 percent have been raped. • 35 percent of heterosexual women, 44 percent of lesbian women, and 61 percent of bisexual women experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner. • 21 percent of straight men have experienced some form of sexual violence other than rape, but for gay and bisexual men, those rates are at 40-47 percent. While the CDC study didn’t capture transgender rates, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and the National Center for Transgender Equality did their own national study to do just that. They surveyed 6,450 transgender participants and discovered the following: • 63 percent had experienced a “serious act of discrimination,” which includes “sexual assault due to bias” among many other events. • 12 percent of respondents who expressed a transgender or gender non-
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
conforming identity while in grades K-12 experienced sexual violence. • 15 percent of trans youth left school due to severe harassment (sexual, physical, or otherwise). These numbers are overwhelming. Nearly half of LGB men and women are survivors of sexual violence? Some studies have shown that over half of transgender people are. I think we can do better than these numbers. In fact, I know we can. The Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault works to help prevent sexual assault, to advocate for accessible, compassionate care for survivors of sexual violence, and to hold offenders accountable. We know that victims can be any gender, and so can perpetrators. Our member programs—the 17 rape crisis and recovery centers around the state— do too. You can find the one nearest you at www.mcasa.org. Our Sexual Assault Legal Institute (call 877.496.SALI) provides free legal services to all survivors of sexual violence, regardless of gender or orientation. If this topic makes you feel like we need to do something to stop these higher rates, or if makes you wonder if one of your friends (or maybe you) is in an unhealthy relationship or at risk for sexual assault, I encourage you to keep reading beyond this article. Come to www.mcasa.org to learn more.
MARYLAND COALITION AGAINST SEXUAL ASSAULT Working to end sexual violence in Maryland >> MCASA.org
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REAL LIFE
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS
BY RACHEL ROTH
WASHINGTON, D.C.
NEW JERSEY
CALIFORNIA
MISSISSIPPI COLORADO
US Outlook on Marriage Equality Continues to Shift NATIONWIDE
A recent ABC poll shows that public support for marriage equality is at an all-time high. According to the poll, 58 percent of Americans now believe it should be legal for gay and lesbian couples to get married. Additionally, dozens of prominent Republicans — including top advisers to former President George W. Bush, four former governors, and two members of Congress — have signed a legal brief arguing that gay people have a constitutional right to marry. Hillary Clinton also recorded a video for the Human Rights Campaign in support of marriage equality calling gay rights “human rights.”
VAWA Passes with LGBT Protections WASHINGTON, D.C.
The recent passage of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) has historic implications for the LGBT community. The bill—which was signed into law on March 7 —passed in both the Senate and the House even with controversial protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people, plus Native Americans and immigrants. Mara Keisling, executive director of the National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) called the added protections PAGE 20
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“crucial” to the trans community. “Transgender victims of violence can be victimized again by a discriminatory system that’s supposed to help them,” she said. Keisling also pointed out that VAWA’s passage is significant because it marks the second fully LGBT-inclusive federal law after the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.
Civil Unions Pass in Colorado
COLORADO
The Colorado General Assembly passed the Colorado Civil Union Act, which provides gay and straight couples the legal benefits, protections, and responsibilities that are granted to married spouses under Colorado state law. Colorado is the eighteenth state— plus Washington, D.C.—to offer comprehensive benefits and obligations to same-sex couples. Nine states and Washington, D.C. allow same-sex marriage.
Mississippi Mayoral Candidate Victim Of Possible Hate Crime MISSISSIPPI
An openly gay Mississippi mayoral hopeful was found dead in an apparent homicide. Marco McMillian was running for office in Clarksdale and was thought to be the first viable openly gay candidate in Mississippi.
McMillian’s body was discovered near a Mississippi River levee. A person with direct knowledge of the investigation confirmed to The Associated Press that McMillian had some bruises and there were burns on at least one area of his body. Members of his camp believe he was intentionally targeted and the FBI is investigating the possibility that his murder was a hate crime. Lawrence Reed, 22, was later charged with murder in the case.
Hundreds Stand Up for PDA
CALIFORNIA
Two Sacramento men were told by security that if they didn’t stop holding hands and kissing while at a local mall, they would be asked to leave. According to BuzzFeed, hundreds of gathered in support of the men— Daniel Chesmore, 21, and Jose Guzman, 24 —in a “Love is Love” rally staged outside of the mall. The couple was reportedly told by the security guard that anyone, regardless of sexuality, would be ejected from the mall for public displays of affection.
LGBT & Immigration Rights Unite
CALIFORNIA
A recent report from the Williams Institute at UCLA finds that out of the 11 million undocumented immigrants estimated to be in America today, 267,000 adults identify as
LGBT. Another 637,000 LGBT adults were legal immigrants. Gary Gates, a Williams Institute scholar, reported that the numbers are a “conservative estimate.” These findings are significant because President Obama is calling on Congress to act on immigration reform, and LGBT rights activists are fighting hard to include protections for LGBT immigrants and their partners. At the center of the debate is the ability to sponsor one’s partner or spouse for a visa, which advocates say affects citizens and immigrants alike.
Student Sues School Districts for Failing to Act on Bullying NEW JERSEY
A teenager who was allegedly bullied for years is suing the school districts he claims subjected him to a hostile environment. NJ.com reported that the lawsuit against Hunterdon Central Board of Education and Flemington-Raritan Board of Education reports that the student was bullied not only by other children but by some school employees as well, from fourth grade onward. The suit claims the school districts were made aware of the problem but did nothing to stop it. It also argues that the victim was targeted because of his perceived sexuality. Years of abuse left long-lasting damage and the young man has developed debilitating health issues, and he missed significant periods of school for hospitalization, according to the suit. GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
FINANCE
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Building Community Since 1977 The GLCCB is proud to offer a wide range of free and low-cost programs, events, and services to the community. . Unless otherwise noted, all events are held at the GLCCB located at 241 W. Chase Street, Baltimore MD. For more information please visit www.GLCCB.org or call 410-777-8145.
WOMEN’S PROGRAMS BALTIMORE FEMINIST READING GROUP
Discussion and reading group open to women, trans*, and genderqueer identified people.
Meets EVERY Thursday at 7:00pm in the First Floor For info contact bmorereadinggroup@gmail.com or bmorereadinggroup.wordpress.com
NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN—BALTIMORE CHAPTER NOW's goal is to take action to bring about equality for ALL women.
Meets 2nd Wednesday at 6:30 on the First Floor For info contact BaltNOW99@gmail.com or facebook.com/BaltimoreNOW
WOMEN OF COLOR
A collective group committed to providing a safe, confidential, and supportive space for LBTQ women of all colors. Meets second, fourth, and fifth Thursdays at 7:30pm in room 202 For info contact WOC@glccb.org or meetup.com/Baltimore-Lesbians-Of-Color
WOMEN OUT AND ABOUT
TRANSGENDER PROGRAMS AKANNI
A support group for all transmen that are conforming & non-conforming at any stage in their transition process. Akanni is a safe, respectful, confidential environment where transmen can share their story and their journey. Presented by Black Transmen, Inc. Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6pm in room 202 For more info contact vmillhouse@blacktransmen.org or BlackTransmen.org
BALTIMORE TRANS-MASCULINE ALLIANCE A support group for trans* men (FTM).
Meets 3rd Thursday at 6:30pm in room 202 For info contact BTMA@glccb.org
TRAN*QUILITY
A support group for trans* women (MTF), but anyone who varies from traditional gender expression is welcome. Meets 2nd and 4th Saturday at 8:00pm in room 201 For info contact Tranquility@glccb.org
A social group for LBTQ women who want to meet new people while enjoying fun activities. Meets off-site, dates and times vary For info contact BWOAEvents@yahoo.com or groups.yahoo.com/group/BWOAEvents
MEN’S PROGRAMS POZ MEN
A free, weekly, peer-led support group for HIV-positive men who have sex with men. Meets EVERY Wednesday from 7:00-8:00 pm in room 202 For info contact POZMen@glccb.org
YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS EXPRESS YOURSELF!
Develop your artistic and expressive skills, learn about queer artists & apply methods from art history into your artwork. We explore a variety of mediums and techniques such as printmaking, photography, wearable art, guerrilla art, book arts & drawing. Ages 13-19. Meets EVERY Tuesday from 4:00-6:30 pm on the First Floor For info contact esalinas@glccb.org
RAINBOW YOUTH ALLIANCE BALTIMORE
In partnership with PFLAG Baltimore - the Rainbow Youth Alliance is a support, social, and discussion group for LGBTQ teens and their allies ages 13-19. Meets on the first, third, and fifth Tuesdays from 7:00-9:00pm on the First Floor For info contact RYABaltimore@gmail.com or facebook.com/groups/RYABaltimore
QBYC—Queer Baltimore Young Adult Coalition
A monthly discussion and social action group dedicated to providing and forging ‘queer’ spaces in Baltimore. QBYC hopes to enrich and bring together the broader LGBTQ community through social engagement, providing LGBTQ young adults with an outlet to build their social circle and themselves, and through impactful actions and activities. Meets FIRST Saturday at 4:00pm on the First Floor
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
RECOVERY PROGRAMS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
LGBTQ centered AA recovery groups, welcoming to all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Meets EVERY Monday at 7:15pm, Thursday at 8:30pm, and Saturday at 6:30pm in room 201
AA—POSITIVELY SOBER
An open meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous, which provides a safe place for those with HIV or other health related issues. All are welcome. Meets EVERY Sunday at 6:15pm in room 201 For info contact jeffreysquibb@yahoo.com
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS
Men’s Rap group for men in recovery. Meets EVERY Sunday at 11:30am in Room 201
HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAMS BEGINNERS’ YOGA
Gentle beginners’ yoga with instructor Tim Hurley, RYT. Drop-ins WELCOME! $9.00 per person, per class EVERY Sunday at 3:30pm in room 201
HIV & SYPHILIS TESTING
FREE and confidential testing provided by the Baltimore City Health Dept. EVERY Wednesday from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on 3rd Floor
The GLCCB is the publisher of
The GLCCB is the producer of
BOOK CLUB
A welcoming book club for LGBTQ individuals meeting once per month to discuss a selected reading. Meets 3rd Monday at 7:00pm in room 202 For more info visit facebook.com/groups/139583666184199
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GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
OUR LIFE
TRANSMISSIONS
The Locket BY GWENDOLYN ANN SMITH This past January, an otherwise nondescript Priority Mail box arrived at my doorstep. Inside was a late holiday gift from my father: a silver locket containing a photo of him and the inscription “I am with you always.” I’ll admit, it’s an odd gift to receive. I would think a locket with your father’s photo might be a more apt gift for a young girl than one several years past two puberties. I also cannot help but read in a message about my father’s own mortality as he enters his 70s. My sister got one of these as well, so I suppose we’re twinsies. Nevertheless, I was a bit taken back by this gift of jewelry from my father. It says a lot about my family, my relationship with it, and my own transition. When I was born, my father beamed with pride. An avid train nut, I was his “Little Engineer.” He named me, giving me the first and middle name of his best friend. I was expected to carry on the family line. I think, too, I was expected to fulfill some of the things that, perhaps, he had not been able to. I was quite young the first time my family and transgenderism collided. We were on the way home from a Sunday drive, my parents up front listening to a call-in radio advice show, me lying down in the back watching the moon pass behind the trees out the window. On the radio, a caller was asking for advice on how to deal with their son, who had just announced his intention to transition. I don’t recall what the show’s host suggested, as I was listening to my parents discuss the caller’s dilemma. The consensus was that this would be a terrible situation for the parents, and one they were glad to never have to face. This was the first time I had ever heard that transition was possible—and in the same moment, I learned how devastating it would be to my parents. I was probably five or so at that time. Fast forward: I was a freshman in high school when my father asked for my help BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
one night. He was a wedding photographer and wanted to take a look at a church and reception hall the night before a client’s service. It was odd that he’d ask me along, but I could certainly not turn down an offer to help. After a half hour or so of looking for all the best angles from which to shoot, we stopped by an ice cream shop on the way home. While in the car with him, as I sipped my peanut butter and chocolate malt, he let me know that he and my mother had discovered an item of women’s attire in my room. “I don’t want to know where this came from, or why it was there,” he said. “You can have it back. But I think you know what to do with it.” Not another word about it was said, and we went home in silence. Not quite 10 years later, I was sitting down with both of my parents, and telling them that I was planning to begin my own transition in a few months. This was the first time I had ever seen my father cry— and to date, the only time. A few weeks later, at an ill-considered family counseling session, he said that he had expected me to say that I had an incurable disease like AIDS—and that maybe that would have been easier news for him to take. Another handful of years passed, with me largely out of contact with the family while I transitioned. Then I ended up speaking on behalf of the family at a memorial service for a cousin of mine while my father sat in the audience. My father and I passed a few stilted pleasantries that day. After more time, I found myself visiting home during another family funeral. My father was showing me a mobile photo studio he’d invested in. He took a moment after pointing out all the nooks and crannies for doing on-site one-hour developing to have another brief talk. “I know I don’t always say the right thing, or use the right name,” he said. “I am trying, though. I hope you know that.” Not long after that, a mutual friend told me about my dad bragging about me, talking about my activism work—and getting my name right. Now, today: a locket. Perhaps an odd memorial, but also an acknowledgement of sorts. I can’t say it is anything I ever expected to own, not the sort of thing I would have expected to receive from my
I am with yo alwaysu . father now or, quite honestly, any other time I have known him. It’s an odd gift, not one I’m all that sure I’ll wear—but one I am honored to have. I know that my experiences are not that uncommon for a lot of other trans-
gender people. Dealing with our families is often a source of pain, frustration, and heartbreak. I assumed for many years that I would not have a relationship with my parents ever again. I also know that it will likely never be quite what it once was. Yet I’ve seen my very conservative father, the same one who forwards me email from his tea party friends, turn quite a few corners. He’s gone from someone who considered me all but dead to him, to someone who’s trying to reach out to and reconcile with me. So as I share this story with you remember, as bleak as it may be, there’s always hope. Gwen Smith still ended up liking trains. You can find her on the web at GwenSmith.com.
Beginner Yoga With Yoga Therapist Tim Hurley
Sundays at 3:30pm (please arrive a few minutes early) Room 201 at The GLCCB 241 W. Chase St. Cost is $9 www.glccb.org 410.837.5445 A portion of the cost is donated back to The GLCCB
APRIL 2013
PAGE 23
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The Trans Woman’s Top Ten BY ALICIA GABRIEL, CHASE BREXTON HEALTH SERVICES
If you’re buying, selling, or just need friendly advice, call 443-310-8384. John L. Neubauer, Realtor® Long & Foster Real Estate Lake Roland Sales 410-377-2270 Office 443-310-8384 Mobile John.Neubauer@LNF.com
Top ten what?, you may ask. This Top Ten is the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) list of health issues trans women should know. This list includes hormone-related issues, depression, and the dangers of silicone pumping. All of these and the rest of the health issues on this list may not relate to you—but one or two probably do. So, read the list and discuss it with your provider. Wait…what? You don’t have a provider? Find a good one here: GLMA.org.
1
ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE We wrote about this back in November, but it bears repeating: trans individuals often have limited access to health care. And it’s a huge health concern. Transgender individuals deserve and need health care that is affirming, comprehensive, and high-quality.
2
HEALTH HISTORY Sure, we all fib a little when we’re at the doctor’s. But studies have shown that trans individuals often hide very important details. An honest provider-patient relationship is necessary for good health care.
3
HORMONES Estrogen: it can increase the risk of blood clotting, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and water retention. Antiandrogens (which inhibit the male sex hormone androgen) can cause dehydration, low blood pressure, and electrolyte disturbances. Hormones need to be prescribed and monitored by a medical provider.
4
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH Studies have shown that trans women may fear that a provider who finds them at risk for cardiovascular disease will instruct them to stop their hormones. This fear can lead to delaying care when signs and symptoms of heart disease appear.
5
CANCER We all have cancer risks. Trans women need to know there are hormonerelated cancers, which are very rare. And, PAGE 28
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trans women remain at risk, although low, for cancer of the prostate. Screenings for these cancers should be included in health screenings.
6
STDS AND SAFE SEX Who doesn’t have this one on their “health issues to know” list? Get tested, get treated, and practice safe sex—always.
7
ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO Alcohol combined with sex hormone administration increases the risk of liver damage. Estrogen and smoking increases the risks of heart attack and stroke. Moral here? Quit the tobacco and talk with your provider about alcohol use.
8
DEPRESSION/ANXIETY This topic is far too dense to discuss here—but therapists and group support systems for all trans individuals are here. Please, do not ignore your mental health.
9
INJECTABLE SILICONE Trans women may be tempted by the possibility of body transformation through injectable silicone. Unfortunately, injectable silicone may migrate in the tissues and cause disfigurement years later. Often dispensed at ‘pumping’ parties, injectable silicone is usually not medical grade, may contain many contaminants, and is often injected using a shared needle, leading to the spread of diseases like hepatitis or HIV.
10
FITNESS (DIET & EXERCISE) Like STDs and Safe Sex, this “health issue to know” is on everyone’s list. Our bodies need a good diet and regular exercise. The health care needs of trans women, trans men, gender-queer, and others who do not conform to society’s gender norms are often overlooked. Educate yourself and find a provider who is educated and affirming. For more information on the above list or for more resources, visit GLMA.org and ChaseBrexton.org. GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
SOCIAL LIFE
BSCENE
BProud Awards Happy Hour at Club Hippo on March 13 PHOTOS BY (TOP TO BOTTOM) BILL HUGHES, MAGGIE BEETZ & RICHELLE TAYLOR
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
APRIL 2013
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SPOTLIGHT
SOCIAL LIFE
DATEBOOK
MONDAY, APRIL 1 WAMMFest
Celebrates diversity in media. Thru April 14 WAMMtu.com
TUESDAY, APRIL 2 Showtune Video Madness
FREE • Tuesdays • 7:45pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3 Gay BINGO!
Melting Away
When Assaf’s parents discover women’s clothing under his mattress, the teen is forced to move out. Assaf becomes a woman, Anna, singing at gay bars in Tel Aviv at night and pretending to be a nurse by day. Anna’s mother searches for her “son” after her husband is diagnosed with terminal cancer. For the first time in Israeli cinema, a feature film portrays parents who are learning to deal with a transgender child. Melting Away is one of eight films being screened during the Baltimore JCC’s 25th anniversary of the William and Irene Weinberg Baltimore Jewish Film Festival. Every year over 500 people attend these feature films from around the world. There will also be a LGBTQ reception prior to the film.
MELTING AWAY
Thursday, April 25 7:30pm • $10 Israel 2011 • 86 mins. Director: Doron Eran Hebrew, with English subtitles Gordon Center for Performing Arts 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave. Owings Mills E sshvartzman@jcc.org T BaltimoreJFF.com
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Cash prizes and progressive jackpot. Drink specials, appetizers, and raffles. Benefits GLCCB. Every Wednesday 8:30pm Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. 410.547.0018 • ClubHippo.com
THURSDAY, APRIL 4 Hip Hop Night at Club Hippo
Get your dance on every Thursday. Reduced cover before 11pm. Club Hippo • 1 W. Eager St. ClubHippo.com
FRIDAY, APRIL 5 Fantasia
Performance of the Disney classic. $17.50-45 • 7pm • Thru April 6 Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall 1212 Cathedral St. BSOMusic.org
BY RACHEL ROTH
SUNDAY, APRIL 7 Dinner & Music
Featuring Barbara Strozzi and Margarita Cozzolani songs. $15 • 5pm An Die Musik, Live • 409 N. Charles St. AnDieMusikLive.com
MONDAY, APRIL 8 Pink Flamingo Screening
Starring Lady Divine. 8pm • The Charles • 1711 N. Charles St. TheCharles.com
TUESDAY, APRIL 9 Les Miserables
Classic tale comes to life. $30-75 • 8pm • Thru April 14 Hippodrome Theatre at France-Merrick PAC • 12 N Eutaw St. France-MerrickPAC.com
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10 Musical Concert – Copland’s Friends
Benefits Baltimore School for the Arts. $10-15 • 7pm Baltimore School for the Arts 712 Cathedral St. BSFA.org
THURSDAY, APRIL 11 The Color Purple
The famed Broadway musical. $10-25 • Murphy Fine Arts Center Morgan State • 2201 Argonne Dr. MurphyFineArtsCenter.org
FRIDAY, APRIL 12
Chely Wright
Country music artist. $25 • 8pm Rehoboth Beach Convention Center 229 Rehoboth Ave. • Rehoboth Beach, DE CampRehoboth.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 13 10th Annual CityLit Festival
Headlined by George Saunders. FREE • 9am Enoch Pratt Free Library 400 Cathedral St. CityLitProject.org
Appalachian Spring Festival Family Day
Presented by Baltimore School for the Arts. $10-35 • 9:45am Baltimore School for the Arts 712 Cathedral St. BSFA.org
“Branching Out”
Photos from official Cherry Blossom Festival artist. FREE • 8pm Art Whino Gallery 120 American Way • National Harbor ArtWhino.com
Passage from India
Artists’ talk: Siona Benjamin & Maureen Drdak. FREE • 2-4pm Center for the Arts Asian Arts Gallery Towson University Towson.edu/AsianArts
SUNDAY, APRIL 14 Prime Timers
Garden of Diversity
Opening reception for Denise Duarte’s exhibit exploring gender in nature. FREE • 5-7pm (And the 32nd St. Farmers Market, Apr. 20) D Center Gallery • 16 W. North Ave. GardenOfDiversity.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 6 Baltimore Popfest 2013
Indie-pop bands. $13.41 • 3pm The Bell Foundry • N. Calvert St. BaltimorePopFest.tumblr.com
Cameron Carpenter
World-renowned organist. $25-40 • 8pm Strathmore • 5301 Tuckerman Lane North Bethesda Strathmore.org
Room Service
A manic backstage farce. $17-22 • 8pm • Thru May 12 Vagabond Players • 806 S. Broadway VagabondPlayers.org
Speaker discusses urological issue of concern for gay men. 6pm St. Mark’s Lutheran Church 1900 St. Paul St. 443.849.5228 • PTBalto.org
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17 Boeing Boeing
1960s bedroom farce. $15-40 • 7pm • Thru May 5 Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center 10901 Little Patuxent Pkwy • Columbia RepStage.org
GAY LIFE MAGAZINE
THURSDAY, APRIL 18
Sight Unseen
Features 12 short films. FREE • 2pm Baltimore Museum of Art 10 Art Museum Dr. ArtBMA.org
R.I.P. V.I.P.
An experimental fashion event. $7 • 6 & 9pm 2640 (St. John’s Church) 2640 Saint Paul St. MICA.edu
Married and Counting Screening
Two men celebrate 25 years together. $7-12 • 7:30pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24 Top Dog/Underdog
The story of two brothers $32-60 • 7:30pm • Thru May 19 Everyman Theatre • 315 W. Fayette St. EverymanTheater.org
Colorism
Presented by Rain Pryor. $10-25 • 8pm • Thru May 4 Strand Theater Company 1823 North Charles St. Strand-Theater.org
Voca People
Quirky, off-Broadway hit. $25-65 • 8pm • Strathmore 5301 Tuckerman Lane • North Bethesda Strathmore.org
FRIDAY, APRIL 19
FRIDAY, APRIL 26 Sugarloaf Crafts Festival
Top artisans and sell their creations. FREE • 10am-6pm • Thru April 28 Maryland State Fairgrounds 2200 York Rd., Timonium SugarloafCrafts.com
Baltimore Bike Party
Biggest party on two wheels. FREE • 7pm Washington Monument • Mount Vernon BaltimoreBikeParty.com
National Day of Silence
Student-led national event that brings attention to LGBT bullying. DayOfSilence.org
Kathy Griffin in Concert
Comedian in town for one night. $45.20-65.70 • 8pm The Lyric • 140 W. Mt Royal Ave. LyricOperaHouse.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 27 Maryland House & Garden Pilgrimage 2013
Tour unique homes and gardens. $30 • 10am-5pm MHGP • 3701 St. Paul St. MHGP.org
Fine art, appetizing food and great fun! $50-175 • 6-10pm Silo Point • 1200 Steuart St. School33.org
Michael Feinstein: The Gershwins and Me
Performs American classics $40-105 • 9pm • Strathmore 5301 Tuckerman Lane • North Bethesda Strathmore.org
BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
League of Women Bowlers
Every Sunday 4:30pm AMF Marlow Heights Lanes 4717 St. Barnabas Rd. • Temple Hill LeagueOfWomenBowlers2@verizon.net
Westminster PFLAG Monthly Mtg. Third Sundays 7pm St. Paul’s United Church of Christ 17 Bond St. * Westminster PFLAGWCC.org
Rise Up— Honoring Women’s Spirituality
Fourth Sundays 12:45-2:15pm First Unitarian Church • 1 W. Hamilton FirstUnitarian.net
MONDAYS Senior Pride: Discussion Group for Women 55+
Every Monday evening Chase Brexton Health Services 410-837-2050 ext. 2428 • Bit.ly/SeniorPride
Interfaith Fairness Coalition Mtg.
Second Mondays 3-4:30pm First Unitarian Church • 1 W. Hamilton IFCMD.info
PFLAG Howard County Parent Forum Third Mondays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org
TUESDAYS
1st, 3rd & 5th Tuesdays 7-9pm The GLCCB • 241 W. Chase St. RYABaltimore@gmail.com Facebook.com/groups/RYABaltimore
Marquee Ball 2013
School 33 Art Center’s Lotta Art Benefit
Every Sunday 9am and 11am MCC Baltimore • 401 W. Monument St MCCBaltimore.org
Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore City
SATURDAY, APRIL 20
Play for the Feast 2013
Metropolitan Community Church
Every Tuesday 6:15-7:45pm First Unitarian Church • 1 W. Hamilton FirstUnitarian.net
Annual collaborative dance show. $10-20 • 8pm Theatre Project • 45 W. Preston St. TheaterProject.org
Annual Casino Night. $15 • 7pm Silo Point Games Room • 1200 Steuart St.
SUNDAYS
Meditation Group
en Route!
“Kiss Me Deadly.” $90 • 7:30pm The Patterson • 3134 Eastern Ave. CreativeAlliance.org
RECURRING & ONGOING EVENTS
FashionEASTa Fashion Show
Fashion and fabulous food. 1-6pm • Harbor East Aliceanna & S. President Sts. HarborEast.com
Youth Pride Day
Performances, games, speakers, resources, and free stuff for youth. Noon-5pm (rain date May 12) Dupont Circle • Washington DC YouthPrideDC.org
Have an event perfect for our readers? Send us all the details!
CALENDAR@ BALTIMOREGAYLIFE.COM
Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding the event. Subject to available space.
Teen Program at JCC
Second Tuesdays 6pm Owings Mills JCC • 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave. JoinTeens.org
PFLAG Howard County General Mtg.
Rainbow Youth Alliance of Howard County
2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia 410.280.9047 • rya_leaders@hotmail.com
Parents of LGBT Kids, Baltimore City
Third Tuesdays 7-9pm The GLCCB * 241 W. Chase St. cvhyde@gmail.com * PFLAGBaltimore.org
Trans Parents Forum, Baltimore Co. Third Tuesdays 7-9:30pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org
PFLAG Baltimore Co. General Mtg.
Fourth Tuesdays 7pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. PFLAGBaltimore.org
Parents of Transgender Kids
Fourth Tuesdays 7:30-9pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia cvhyde@gmail.com • PFLAGBaltimore.org
WEDNESDAYS Living Well with HIV Support Group
Every Wednesday 10:30am Inst. of Human Virology • 725 W. Lombard Jacques.umaryland.edu/support.html
Charm City Volleyball: Social Play
Every Wednesday 6:30-9:30pm • $3-30 Mt. Royal Rec. Center • 137 McMechen St. VolleyBaltimore.org
Spiritual Development with Rev. Sam Offer
Every Wednesday 7pm Unity Fellowship Church • 4007 Old York UFCB.org
GEM: Gender Empowerment MD
Every other Wednesday 7pm Equality Maryland • 1201 S. Sharp St. Owen@EqualityMaryland.org
Senior Pride: Disc. Group (Men 55+)
Every Wednesday evening Chase Brexton Health Services 410-837-2050 ext. 2428 • Bit.ly/SeniorPride
THURSDAYS HIV Support: Substance Abuse & HIV Every Thursday 2-3pm Inst. of Human Virology • 725 W. Lombard IHV.org
FRIDAYS
Second Tuesdays 7:30pm Owen Brown Interfaith Center 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia PFLAGMD.org
HIV Support: Just Between US
Parents of Transgender Kids
SATURDAYS
Second Tuesdays 7-9pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 7246 Cradlerock Way • Columbia cvhyde@gmail.com • PFLAGBaltimore.org
Rainbow Youth Alliance of Baltimore County
2nd & 4th Tuesdays 7-9pm Towson Unitarian Universalist Church 1710 Dulaney Valley Rd. RYABaltimoreCounty@gmail.com
Every Friday 11am-Noon Inst. of Human Virology • 725 W. Lombard IHV.org
Baltimore Frontrunners
Every Saturday 8:45am • Brunch 10am Panera Bread • 3600 Boston St. BaltimoreFrontrunners.org
HOPE DC Monthly Brunch
First Saturdays 11am Rosemary’s Thyme Bistro DC 1801 18th St. NW, Washington, D.C. HopeDCSocials-owner@yahoogroups.com
APRIL 2013
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