EILE Magazine – December 2015 (Vol.3, Issue 7) by EILE Magazine

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Magazine V3 Issue 7 – Dec. 2015

Smoke Season

Gay-themed single ‘Loose’

California Dispatch

Kill Zone

Aodháin Ó Riordáin After The Yes

Inside:

Mark Anthony Party Dressing

Fashion | Film | Music |Health | Glória Choir

EILE Magazine | Who’s Who

Contributors

Mark Anthony Mark is a UCD English graduate who writes his own menswear fashion blog. Mark has also produced several fashion shows in the past, all in aid of worthwhile causes. M. Butler M. Butler is a writer and editor, with a keen interest in human rights, and has studied philosophy and psychology. Lucia Chappelle Lucia is Associate Producer of the Los Angeles-based LGBT radio programme, This Way Out. Scott De Buitléir Scott is founder and Editor-at-Large of EILE Magazine. He is also a writer and broadcaster, originally from Dublin but now based in Nottingham. Brian Rochford Brian has studied health and nutrition, with a special interest in controlling pain in rheumatism and arthritis. Frances Winston Frances Winston is EILE’s resident film buff, and has contributed to many publications such as The Irish Independent and Irish Tatler.

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EILE Magazine | Welcome

Highlights December 2015 Exercise - P. 18

Volume 3, Issue 7

Brian Rochford on how to develop an easy health routine

Editor-at-Large: Scott De Buitléir Editor: MKB

California Dispatch – P. 38 Lucia Chappelle writes on the continuing violence against transgenders, women and black youth in the US

Aodhán Ó Riordáin,Brian Sheehan, Anne-Marie Lillis - P. 44 M. Butler writes on After The Yes LGBT rights meeting hosted by Aodhán Ó Riordáin

Music – P. 6 This month we feature music from one of EILE’s favourite bands, Smoke Season, and their new single, Loose

Contributors: Mark Anthony, M. Butler, Lucia Chappelle, Scott De Buitléir, MKB, Brian Rochford, Frances Winston Photographers: Scott Fleishman, Wes Marsala, Stephen Mac NB: All images in this publication are either under Creative Commons licence, or used with permission. Image credits, where necessary, are printed on the corresponding page(s). Any queries can be made to hello@eile.ie Special Thanks to MKB for all her hard work, dedication and support. Web: http://eile.ie Contact: hello@eile.ie Twitter: @EILEMagazine Facebook: http://fb.com/eilemagazine Note: All opinions expressed in this issue are the writers’ own.

Fashion – P. 10 This month, Mark Anthony tells us what to wear to those holiday season parties

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…plus film and health and much more! EILE Magazine

EILE Magazine | Editor’s Letter

Contents 6-

Smoke Season

10 -

Mark on Fashion

14 -

Night People Gerard L.

18 -

Health - B. Rochford

20 -

Glória’s Evolution

30 -

Frances On Movies

38 -

California Dispatch

44 -

After The Yes....

48-

MarEq-First Couples

From page 58 on World LGBT News, Views, MarEq etc

A Very Happy Christmas! Scott De Buitléir on a wonderous year When we go about our business and lives, day by day, we tend to forget and lose sight of our achievements. 2015 should never be forgotten, however, because it genuinely has been one of the most fantastic years for LGBT equality and recognition in Ireland. From the incredible marriage equality referendum, where the country made a worldwide announcement that our love was equal to everyone else’s, to introducing one of the world’s best gender recognition laws, Ireland has come to the fore. Our community’s revered Panti has truly become ‘Queen of Ireland’ with the release of the fantastic and iconic documentary on her life and the run-up to the marriage equality referendum. Her ‘Noble Call’ speech sent shockwaves around the country and the world, and it put Ireland on the map as a head’s up that we were about to announce just how far we’ve come in recent years. In short, 2015 has proven that it’s very possible to be proud of being LGBT in Ireland. Erin go bragh, indeed. We should not forget, however, that inequality is not just ‘beyond the horizon’, but actually beyond the border. Northern Ireland is still a part of these isles that does not enjoy the benefits of marriage equality. Regardless of any political opinions you may have about Northern Ireland, the region should not be abandoned by either Irish or British neighbours. Change may be just around the corner, coming from the Belfast courts, but Northern Ireland’s LGBT community shouldn’t be left to fight their own battles, now that Britain and the Republic have their benefits. Christmas is a time to reflect, be grateful, and enjoy the company of our friends, family, and loved ones – regardless of what form any of those take! Until we meet again next year, I hope you enjoy this final EILE issue of 2015, and Have A Wonderful Christmas. …or, as I prefer, Nollaig Shona.

Scott De Buitléir Founder / Editor-at-Large

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SMOKE SEASON

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Indie-Rock band Smoke Season have released their video for the single, Loose, one of four videos set to be then released as a short film, Ouroboros. Loose is the first single from their album also titled Ouroboros. If you don’t already know this great band, read on! Smoke Season was formed in early 2013 by Gabrielle Wortman and Jason Rosen. Combining their musical backgrounds, the duo created their own unique take on Americana, infusing folk with electronic undertones and rich vocal harmonies. “Their atmospheric, love-worn electronic-pop” is most hailed among critics for defying “any sort of simple categorization.” (Vanyaland, 2014)

Smoke Season catapulted into must-know status in 2014 after an impressive residency at acclaimed LA venue, the Echoplex. Their performances were hailed in the press by LA Weekly (“Music Pick of the week”), Buzzfeed, Los Angeles Magazine, Buzzbands LA, Radio Free Silver Lake, Free Bike Valet, Grimy Goods & more. Their sophomore release, Hot Coals For Cold Souls, has been featured on 2 Spotify playlists, capturing almost half a million listens in one month and vastly expanding their fan base around the world.

Described as “pop, rock, electronic, Americana, and folk elements collide in an inspired way” (The Daily Album), the EP “pulls mood-building tricks from country, R&B, dancy indie, chillwave and more” (Independent Clauses). Smoke Season paired up with VMA-nominated production team, APLUSFILMZ, for two music videos off the EP - Badlands and Opaque. The most recent of the two, Opaque, premiered on the front-page of LA Weekly and exploded with positive reviews in the press, solidifying Smoke Season as a pioneer in their

Smoke Season playing San Francisco

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cinematic artistic vision. They have now released their breathtaking video for “Loose,” which serves as the first chapter to their short film, Ouroboros, and is the first single off their upcoming EP of the same title. Packed with stunning cinematography, an all-star cast and a heartbreaking tale of the reality of teenage LGBT love, “Loose,” marks Smoke Season’s most ambitious and rewarding project yet. The Ouroboros EP will be available in 2016 and “Loose” is now streaming on VEVO. Ouroboros’ plot spans across the narratives of four radically different characters (each with their own dedicated music video),whose seemingly disparate lives intertwine to demonstrate

the interconnectedness of humanity. Musically, “Loose” displays ethereal instrumentation, powerful beats and fierce vocals that set it apart as a powerfully unique, but equally catchy indie rock anthem. The song continues Smoke Season’s unique “electro-Americana” combination of both folk and electronic influences. “Loose” was produced by Kyle Draper and Dave Burris of Mateo Sound and mixed by Chris Mullings (The Neighbourhood, LP, Weird Al Yankovic). The remaining three videos will be released in 2016 to continue the story. Separately, a combined short film edit spanning 20 minutes in length will begin screening at a number of international film festivals in 2016. The band will

be releasing the songs from the Ouroboros EP digitally, physically and on vinyl. Smoke Season began in 2013 with a self-produced debut EP, Signals, and self-directed music video for their first single, Soleil. After being released in March 2013, the Signals EP went on to independently sell thousands of copies and garner critical acclaim. The strides that the band have made since can be heard in their great new single, “Loose”. If you would like to watch the video for Loose, go to: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=DN2pL4pPcC0

Photographer Credit: Scott Fleishman, Wes Marsala

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Album Art for Loose

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‘TIS THE

SEASON... Doyen of style, Mark Anthony, tells you how to rock this party season and loosen up It’s party season once again. Can you believe that? It’s time to dust off all your finery, polish those shoes and well, prepare that liver of yours. And while we all view December and the weeks that follow as a time to let our hair down and to relax, it can also have its pitfalls. This month we are all going to feel like we have arrived underdressed, or fail to turn up.

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It’s not as plain and sailing as we all think on this festive circuit. But the good news is, I’m here to help. You’re welcome. Lists. lists, lists. It’s the only way forward. As easy as it is to get carried away buying stuff for yourself - don’t. Ensure those stockings get stocked, plan those pre-christmas parties. Spend that little bit of extra time going through your party wardrobe, making sure everything is ready to go out in at a moment’s notice. And once the quality checks have been taken care of, it’s on to quantity. Shirt-less tuxes might work for the Chippendales, but it’s

not a look that’ll leave your boss merry at your Christmas work-do. Just because shirt-less tuxes are off the menu, it doesn’t mean you need necessarily enslave yourself to tradition. Of course, certain parties will have certain dress codes, but for those that don’t, you can loosen your collar – literally. Why not invest in one killer jacket-and-trouser combination? That way you can mix them up with a fine knit, openneck shirt or dress-shirt and bow-tie? Then each evening is that little bit different. For a fail-safe combo that can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion, try a navy blazer with a pair of grey trousers.

Zara

Cerruti 1881

Banana Republic

“Just because shirt-less tuxes are off the menu, it doesn’t mean you need necessarily enslave yourself to tradition” House of Fraser

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Nailing that festive party look can prove tricky when it’s not as straightforward as ‘Christmas jumpers’ or black tie. This is especially important when it comes to work-parties. While work attire is a dress code of sorts, there is more room to get this wrong at a Christmas party. By all means choose a more relaxed outfit, but not one that would cause it to be remarked upon for the wrong reasons. That’s a thumbs-down for the snow-pattern onesie, then. Damn! There’s no worse feeling that

feeling underdressed at a party. Try to look like you haven’t tried too hard this festive season. And while ’tis the season for something festive, no-one wants to see your gaudy holly print. Instead, inject a little Christmas spirit with a polka-dot pattern, or a block-colour style in a seasonal shade of deep wine or green. However, this Christmas season, it’s not all about the outfits. Parties are basically minefields: a step or two in the wrong direction, and suddenly you’re stuck in no man’s land.

While it’s a time of celebration and a time to relax, it’s equally important to make sure you fall in line with what is appropriate behavior. When talking to others, don’t look over their shoulder for someone else to talk to. Always ask questions, be ‘interested’ in others, not simply ‘interesting’. If nothing else, this time of the year is a test of your endurance. So, for best performance, make sure you stock up on supplements. Look for the best hangover cures, and never let it be said that I have never been looking out for you.

“ I hope y’all have a very, very, Happy Christmas Mwah! ” 12 EILE Magazine

Gant

Hackett

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why not invest in one killer jacket-andtrouser combination?â&#x20AC;?

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Night People - An Irish horror/science fiction film by Gerard Lough Night People is an Irish Horror / Science Fiction story which marks the feature film debut of Irish director Gerard Lough, and stars Michael Parle, Jack Dean-Shepherd and Claire Blennerhassett. The film was shot on location in Donegal and Dublin and features a large cast made up of some of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exciting new acting talent. The film tries to breathe new life into genre cinema with striking visuals, provocative themes with an ambitious intertwining narrative that has plenty of twists and turns. A pair of professional but badly mismatched criminals break into a vacant house to carry out an insurance scam. Awkwardly thrown together with an hour to kill, they reluctantly start telling each other tall tales. One concerns two friends who discover a mysterious device that may be of alien origin. The more they learn about it, the closer to breaking point their friendship is pushed. The other is about an ambitious business woman who provides a dating agency for wealthy fetishists. She attempts to escape this shady line of work by taking on a new client whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s habits may be of the vampiric variety. Gerard Lough attended North West Regional College in Derry, graduating with a diploma in media studies. After an internship with an American advertising agency, he began making short films independently. Night People was released in Irish cinemas in 2015. 14 EILE Magazine

Left - Gerard Lough, director of Night People

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Béar Féile 2016 Officially Launched! The programme for Béar Féile 2016 was officially launched at Dublin’s new Bear event, Trinity, and included a great promotional video. The festival, which aims to be Ireland’s biggest Bear event, will feature such favourite acts as Kylie goes GaGa, Paul M, Lady Diamond Sitges, and Mr Bear Ireland with Panti . 16 EILE Magazine

For more information on BĂŠar FĂŠile 2016, or the Dublin Bears group and their events, visit: www.dublinbears.ie EILE Magazine 17

How to develop the habit of a daily exercise routine Brian Rochford talks us through the beginnings of a healthy lifestyle It has been said that developing a fitness exercise programme is probably one of the best ways to stay fit and healthy. It can help to lower the risk of chronic illness, and help restore the balance and flexibility that we can lose over the course of our daily lives. Everyone agrees that exercise is good for you. But that does not mean that everyone has a daily exercise routine. Many of us start out with the best of intentions, but over time, we become bored, and just give up. How do you continue

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to do something that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel like doing?

breath.

One answer can be to incorporate it into your daily routine. You could start with some moderate aerobic exercise, like taking a short walk every day. A regular walk has been linked to reducing chronic conditions like heart disease and asthma, and even type 2 diabetes. This kind of activity will raise the heart rate and speed up the breathing process. You can tell if you are working at a fairly moderate level if you can continue to talk, but are unable to sing a song.

There has been extensive research into the benefits of doing exercises on a regular basis. This being true, why is it that so many people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bother participating in a daily exercise programme? The reason in my opinion is habit. Most people avoid the development of a daily exercise routine because in the beginning, it takes effort. But if you continue with the process, you will find that the habit is incorporated into your daily living pattern, and as a result you would not consider letting the day go without the experience.

The fact that the majority of what we do every day is really the result of habit, you may want to try to take up a more vigorous form of exercise like jogging or even running. This kind of vigorous activity increases the rate of your breathing, and as a result you can only say a few words before you have to take a

Yes, we are creatures of habit, we like and thrive on routine, and we depend on it. Like driving your car or preparing your meal, you automatically do these things without thinking about them. Think back to a time when you were starting to do these things, you had to do them slowly and carefully

and you made mistakes, now you perform these complex functions with relative ease. You continued with the learning process, because you believed that these particular skills would be of value to you in the future. You can apply the exact same process to the development of a daily exercise program. Getting started is the hardest part, especially if you are not a big fan of exercise, or have fallen into the trap of living a sedentary lifestyle. Remember always that it only takes a short time to develop

new habits, and once you get started and begin to feel the benefits of more energy and better fitness levels, you will continue to feel motivated, and want to push yourself a little past your typical comfort zone. However, it is important to remember that if you have been out of condition for a while, or you are uncertain where to begin, or if you have a medical condition, be sure to consult your doctor to get advice before beginning any exercise program.

To help get you started, it may help if you choose a sport that you think you might like, or join a club with some of your friends or colleagues. There are many forms of exercise that are low impact and easy to learn. There are also many systems of exercise that can easily fit into your particular lifestyle. So with the new year just round the corner, it may well be just what the doctor ordered!

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Glória - The Evolution of a Great Choir! M. Butler went to see the Glória choir’s Christmas Concert in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, on Friday, 18 December

Last Friday night’s a change of pace, we were treated to White Christmas, Glória Christmas with beautiful harmonies Concert 2015 (18 and moving effortlessly from soft to loud, the song December) was had the surprising effect on a celebration of this listener of becoming more than the emotional, as the choir brought the piece to a crescendo at the music. It was a end. celebration of equality, joy, and Santa Clause was another happiness, and the surprising offering, with harmonies that raised it above quiet realisation the ordinary, with timing and that something unison perfect. The audience was brought in for Joy To amazing had been The World, again with an achieved during emotional feeling rising up in 2015. The marriage this listener, as the choir did most of the work. referendum result could not fail to Born On A New Day was sung have pride of place in a jaunty, upbeat style, again in everyone’s heart with beautiful harmonies and Photo: Hanna König Photographytiming just perfect. In The as they listened Bleak Midwinter was next with to the beautiful male and female solos, and the choir complementing them harmonies of the Glória singers, with perfectly. Ian Packham at the Lullay was next, with Ian Packham telling us that he had helm. Starting with Sing Noel, the choir sang this beautifully, and showed their polish hitting the high notes perfectly. With 20 EILE Magazine

found this Karl Jenkins version which he preferred for this beautiful hymn. This took on an almost ethereal quality as the choir sang softly, perfectly

in unison, again harmonising like the accomplished choir they now are, singing this quite complex melody with ease. O Come O Come Emmanuel was angelic, again with beautiful harmonies, almost mesmerising in its effect, lulling us into a reverie, which was only broken as we were encouraged to sing again, this time for O Come All Ye Faithful, with the choir doing most of the work. Karl Jenkins’ Benedictus was next, with the harmonies amazing, becoming strong and loud, exciting and then pacifying us again as it returned to softer harmonies. O Magnum Mysterium, one of Packham’s favourite pieces, and as he tells us, first performed 21 years ago, had the ability to carry you to a different place, as the sound reverberated in the cathedral after each note, with the choir showing their ability to control their voices, and showing this hymn to its best. We were then told “that’s enough of the highbrow stuff” as Packham commented on

Glória Choir With Ian Packham Conducting in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dubliin Christmas Concert 2015

the sensational year it has been for Glória and the LGBT community, and as the choir went into Walking In The Air, so beautiful from the very first notes, with notable input from violinist, Niamh O’Connor. The Ave Maria was as emotional as any heart could take, with both male and female voices joining together beautifully rising to a crescendo, and the choir then effortlessly went into Ring Christmas Bells, light, jaunty, with harmonies and timing perfect. We did not have the lighthearted dress-up section this

year, where the choir sang popular songs with gusto, and I must say I missed it, but the obvious practice that must have been put in to get the delicate harmonies, and timing, just right more than made up for it.

end of the night when the choir sang Have Yourself A Very Merry Christmas, with again beautiful harmonies and the choir so in tune with each other, and then into Candlelight Carol, a beautiful slow tune, perfectly modulated.

With just as much delight, we heard Nella Fantasia, Believe, and O Holy Night, and back to ourselves again for Hark The Herald Angels Sing, and on into Winter Song with not only beautiful soft voices but also the haunting strains of the violin.

We, of course, wanted more, and so Ian and the choir obliged with the upbeat carol, Go To Bethlehem, and then a repeat of Ring Christmas Bells, where again, the choir didn’t miss a beat.

With a hint of sadness, we knew it was coming to the

The audience gave Glória a standing ovation, which was richly deserved, and anyone who had attended the Glória EILE Magazine 21

concerts over the years would have seen a maturing and sweetening of this one voice with many outlets, guided by Ian Packham’s obvious love of music. Glória has indeed become a choir to be reckoned with, and could stand against any and acquit themselves well. The Candlelight Carol says “Angels Are Singing”, and that was certainly true of Glória this year! - M. Butler

Ian Packham, Musical Director of Glória

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For more information on Gl贸ria, or to download their music, go to: www.gloria.ie

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Freeheld – Film about Lesbian NY Policewoman Lauren Hester’s Fight For Justice From the Oscarnominated writer of Philadelphia, comes FREEHELD, the true love story of Laurel Hester [Julianne Moore] and Stacie Andree [Ellen Page] and their fight for justice. Freeheld is a 2015 American drama film directed by Peter Sollett and written by Ron Nyswaner. The film stars Julianne Moore, Ellen Page, Steve Carell, Luke Grimes, and Michael Shannon, and is based on the 2007 documentary short film of the same name about real

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police officer Laurel Hester’s (Moore) fight against the Ocean County, New Jersey, Board of Chosen Freeholders, to allow her pension benefits to be transferred to her domestic partner, Stacie Andree, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. A decorated New Jersey police detective, Laurel is diagnosed with cancer, and wants to leave her hard-earned pension to her domestic partner, Stacie. However, the county officials, Freeholders, conspire to prevent Laurel from doing this. Hard-nosed detective Dane Wells [Michael Shannon], and activist Steven Goldstein [Steve Carell], unite in Laurel and Stacie’s defence, rallying police officers and ordinary citizens to support their

struggle for equality. The film also includes a song called “Hands of Love” by Miley Cyrus. In Irish cinemas, digital HD and DVD, from February 19, 2016.

Julianne Moore (left) and Ellen Page star in FREEHELD

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Irish films ‘Mammal’ and ‘The Land of the Enlightened’ to have world premieres at Sundance Film Festival 2016 The Irish feature film Mammal starring Academy Award® nominated and Golden Globe® winning actress Rachel Griffiths (‘Six Feet Under’, Muriel’s Wedding) and rising Irish star, Barry Keoghan (‘Love/Hate’, ’71) which was directed by Irish filmmaker, Rebecca Daly, will have its world premiere in the World Dramatic Competition at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival next month. The Irish co-produced documentary The Land of the Enlightened will also have its world premiere at the renowned North American festival in the International Documentary strand. Mammal which co-stars Michael McElhatton (‘Game of Thrones’) and Johnny Ward (‘Love/ Hate’) Gintare Parulyte, Larisa Faber, Janine Horsburgh, and Sam Steen, is the compelling story of a woman (Griffiths) who has lost her son and develops an

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unorthodox relationship with a homeless youth (Keoghan). Their tentative trust is threatened by his involvement with a violent gang, and the escalation of her ex-husband’s (McElhatton) grieving rage. Speaking about the official selection of Mammal, director Rebecca Daly said: “It’s such an honour and a fantastic start for Mammal. I know how much US audiences love Rachel and am really excited to see what the audience at Sundance make of the film and a very different performance from her.” Written by Rebecca Daly and Glenn Montgomery, Mammal was selected as part of the first Berlinale Residency, a programme organised by the Berlin International Film Festival to support writer/directors develop their new projects. Daly’s debut feature, The Other Side of Sleep, premiered at the prestigious Cannes

Film Festival Directors Fortnight. Pieter-Jan De Pue’s documentary, The Land of the Enlightened, which was produced by Irish producer, Morgan Bushe for Fastnet Films, charts the complex Afghani war economy, told through the eyes of the children who have found themselves caught up in the on-going American occupation. The Sundance Film Festival, which takes place in Park City, Utah, is one of the world’s premiere places to debut new independent films, and over the course of its more than 30-year history, has launched films including Whiplash, Boyhood, Little Miss Sunshine, Reservoir Dogs, Napoleon Dynamite, Brooklyn and The Guard. Mammal was produced by Macdara Kelleher and Conor Barry for Fastnet Films (Strangerland, Kisses, What If) and was funded by the Irish Film Board (IFB), Luxembourg

Film Fund, BAI, TV3 and the Netherlands Film Fund. Picture Tree are the films sales agent. The Land of the Enlightened is a Belgium/ Irish/Dutch/German coproduction produced by Academy Award速 nominated Savage Film Productions, Fastnet Films, Gebrueder Beetz Filmproduktion and Submarine. Films Boutique are acting as the world sales agent. Both films will be distributed by Wildcard Distribution and are set for Irish cinema releases in 2016.

The land of the Enlightened

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Design: Anthony Zagariko, exclusively for EILE Magazine

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LITTlE GEM RECOrDS 5, CAVENDISH ROW, AT THE TOP OF O’CONNEll STrEET, DUBlIN, IS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. SPECIAlISINg IN INDEPENDENT ArTISTS AND lABElS, STOCKINg VINYl, CASSETTE, COMPACT DISC, AND lITTlE gEM PlAYErS

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Frances Winston on Movies Directed by: Paul McGuigan Starring: James McEvoy, Daniel Radcliffe, Jessica Brown Findlay, Andrew Scott, Freddie Fox There are many variations on Mary Shelly’s classic tale of the scientist who plays God and builds a man from dead body parts, with tragic results, but I can’t recall one that is told from the perspective of his assistant Igor. Of course, Igor was a creation of the silver screen, having not appeared in the original novel, so it is perhaps unsurprising that his has never been seen as anything more than a secondary role. Harry Potter alum Radcliff plays Igor here, and initially, he is the hunchback figure that you may be familiar with from previous incarnations. We first meet him working in a circus. When events conspire to see him rescued from his pathetic life by Victor Frankenstein (McEvoy) it appears that his hunchback was actually a cyst! Once Frankenstein has drained it, and Igor has cleaned up, he is unrecognisable as the pitiful creature from the circus – which is just as well as Andrew Scott’s dogmatic policeman, Turpin, is on their trail, believing Frankenstein is involved in blasphemous work. He is, of course, correct, as

the doctor is working on a regeneration project which would see him reanimating the dead. Enlisting Igor to help him, the two work on experiments that will eventually lead to the creation of the infamous creature. This movie has shifted release dates on several occasions, and it seems odd to be watching something like this at the beginning of December. A Hallowe’en release would have been much more apt, and possibly made it more attractive to audiences looking for a bit of creep and gore at that time of year. As it stands this feels very displaced. It is supposed to be a reimagining, but it doesn’t actually feel very imaginative. We have seen most of what is here before, and although McEvoy makes a suitably obsessed Dr Frankenstein, you never really get the sense that he is a man on the edge. Radcliffe also never feels convincing as the one time hunchback given a new lease of life. You don’t get the sense of all the hardship and humiliation he is supposed to have suffered in the past.

and effects since Boris Karloff played the role back in the 30s, this creature fails to shock in the way that he did and continues to. This story is so ingrained in people’s psyche that it is extremely difficult to do anything with it other than a faithful retelling, as people will always pick holes. However, here they appear to have been way too ambitious, and in trying to almost rewrite the tale, they have veered too far from the ethos and themes of the original tale. It isn’t helped by a weak script and some less than astonishing effects. Even a dramatic final set piece can’t save this movie. It adds nothing to the archives of the horror genre, and isn’t exactly seasonal fare, so I imagine it will struggle to find an audience. It works mainly as a curiosity piece rather than a thrilling piece of escapism. This is more a movie to watch on your sofa when it comes out on DVD, rather than in the cinema. In Cinemas Now!

The big reveal of “The Creature” is extremely disappointing. Although he is not the focus of the movie, he should at least send a chill down your spine, but despite the amazing advances in CGI EILE Magazine 31

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Frances Winston on Movies continued...

Directed by: JJ Abrams - Starring: Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew, Max von Sydow Unless you have been living on another planet (which would be ironic since this is set on many other planets) you can’t have failed to notice the hype surrounding this latest offering from the Star Wars franchise. One of the main reasons it has generated such excitement, is that the core cast of the original movies returned for what is episode VII in the saga. Therefore it picks up the story after the events of Return of the Jedi. Around 30 years afterwards in fact. Although this fact is common knowledge, producers have done an astonishing job of keeping the plot under wraps. They have specifically requested that reviewers don’t post spoilers, or any detailed plot points, so what follows will hopefully be a suitably vague explanation that will still pique your interest. The Rebel Alliance from the earlier movies has now become the resistance, and the Galactic Empire is now known as The First Order, and they are still at war. Princess Leia is now a General who leads the resistance, and they find help in

the form of a young girl named Rey (newcomer Ridley) who inadvertently gets caught up in the conflict, and a former member of the First Order, Finn (Boyega). Other than that it is difficult to say much without ruining it. Suffice to say that many of the fan theories which were inspired by the trailers are completely wrong. Abrams has done a great job of throwing the audience curve balls, and there is one scene in particular that left me shocked and almost traumatised, as I didn’t see it coming at all. There are plenty of nods to the original films - not just with the cast but also with settings, scenes, in-jokes and references. I’m not going to lie - I did feel a squee of excitement when Han Solo made his entrance (and Harrison Ford can still kick serious bad guy ass despite being in his 70s) and seeing the original stars back in character was wonderful. However, the focus here is very much on the newer characters of Rey and Finn, and they are every bit as engaging as Ford, Fisher and Hamill were back in the day. I should also give a shout out to Chewbacca, C3PO and R2D2, who are also back for this episode. As you would expect, the effects are spectacular and enhanced by watching in 3D, however, the look and feel is akin to the original, and they have resisted the temptation to completely redesign everything simply because they could. In fact

in terms of cinematography, editing, and score, there is nothing I can fault this on. What I found most surprising was that you don’t really need any prior Star Wars knowledge to enjoy this. Yes, it will enhance your viewing experience and you will get more from the references, but it is not necessary and the movie will still make sense. Since there are two more episodes to come, I’m not ruining anything when I say they set it up for a sequel, and I did feel this left the story hanging a bit, but that is one of my few criticisms. This is a movie that lives up to the hype. It will appeal to the old fans, and is sure to attract many more. It will make you laugh and leave you with a lump in your throat in places, and it looks magnificent while doing it. When the well-known opener “once upon a time in a galaxy far, far away...” flashes on screen, and the famous theme music strikes up, it is impossible not to feel excited, and that excitement is maintained throughout the movie. This is definitely worth the price of admission, and since pretty much every person in the country will be heading to see it, do you really want to be the one that misses out? In Cinemas Now!

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The Martian

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Frances Winston on Movies continued...

Directed by: Jessie Nelson Starring: John Goodman, Diane Keaton, Amanda Seyfried, Alan Arkin, Olivia Wilde, Ed Helms, Marisa Tomei, June Squibb, Anthony Mackie, Alex Borstein The first of the festive film offerings has at least done the decent thing and released in December, rather than trying to milk the holiday season with a mid-November release as has happened in the past. This film boasts a hugely impressive cast that would ordinarily have people flocking to the cinema. However, Christmas movies are much like cranberry sauce - you either love or hate them, and which side of the fence you sit on will very much dictate how you feel about this.

collapse as soon as they get through one more holiday season. Every family stereotype is here, from the wise old grandfather, to the kookie aunt, to the directionless grown son. All of the cast give sterling performances in what is pretty standard fare, but the problem is that it is standard fare. Holiday movies are ten-a-penny, and usually they feel like they are just cashing in on peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love of the season, and this is no exception. That said, it is at times incredibly sweet, and has some beautiful moments just enough to give you the warm and fuzzies on a first watch.

humbug moment though, it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change your mind, and it is unlikely to be reeled out year after year as a festive tradition. Somewhat schmaltzy but with heart, this is like an appetiser for the other festive film offerings on the horizon. In Cinemas Now!

However, it seems to be trying to be Love Actually at times, and while this does have its merits, it is far too standard to reach the revered status of that much loved modern classic.

This film doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t offend, and indeed it will probably make you thankful that The title pretty much says your family seem so it all, as four generations normal, next to the car of the Coopers get together crash that is the Coopers. for the holidays, each If you are trying to get in battling their own personal the festive spirit, then this crisis. Goodman and movie will definitely do Keaton play the patriarch that. and matriarch, whose marriage is on the verge of If you are having a bah-

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Frances Winston on Movies continued...

Directed by: Jonathan Levine Starring: Seth Rogan, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Anthony Mackie, Michael Shannon, Gillian Bell, Lizzy Caplan The latest offering in the festive stable of movies comes from the people who brought you the satirical apocalypse drama, This is the End, so you already know that this will be a bit left-of-centre. Rogan, Gordon-Levitt and Mackie play three friends, who have a tradition of celebrating Christmas Eve in the same haunts every year. As they have grown older, it has become clear that the tradition will have to end, so they set off for one last night. However, with tickets to the exclusive Nutcracker Ball in their pockets, a box full of drugs, and with all having various major life issues, this will be no ordinary night. This makes no bones about what it is. It’s not trying to be a Christmas classic – rather it wants to give its audience hard and fast belly laughs, and it succeeds. Much like many of Rogan’s previous offerings, there is a lot of puerile and frat-boy humour here – these

movies are not for the easily offended. However, if you take the jokes in the spirit they are intended, this is extremely funny. Their “guide” on their raucous night comes in the form of their drug dealer, Mr Green (Shannon) and leads to several fantasy sequences which don’t always work, but other than that this sticks to its remit all the way through.

It isn’t going to go down as a festive must-see, and you probably won’t remember much of it a couple of hours after leaving the cinema. But the belly laughs and Ho-Ho-Hos will stay with you, and you will leave the cinema smiling, which is as good a reason as any to check this out. In Cinemas Now!

Although it is exaggerated for comic effect, most people will relate to the personal crises that the characters are undergoing. On a less cerebral level, we’ve all also had those festive traditions that have to come to an end. However, this film isn’t trying to be deep – it just wants the audience to have fun. All members of the cast do a great job, with Mackie in particular a revelation, since he is not known for his comedic roles. For good measure there are also plenty of cameos from the casts’ celebrity friends, including James Franco and a hilarious turn by Miley Cyrus. Trust me when I say you will never listen to Wrecking Ball in the same way again. With a running time of an hour and forty minutes, this film never knows when to leave the building. EILE Magazine 37

Califor

Kill Zone

Revd Troy Perry

Lucia Chappelle wonders who is going to stop the violence against transgenders, women, blacks, all of us... Another Transgender Day of Remembrance. Another room ringed with their pictures. Another reading of the names of those transgender people slaughtered in Southern California during the past year. This year we say “Rest in Power” in response to the names. Another year we talk about ways to stop the violence. A transwoman friend of 38 EILE Magazine

mine is fond of saying: hopeful Senator Ted Cruz of Texas. “That’s easy. Stop killing us.” That probably starts with “Stop the targeting transpeople as political patsies,” a tactic that’s clearly going to rise in ascendency in the U.S. now that marriage equality is a done deal. The most unbelievable use of partisan transphobia one could possibly imagine came one week after Transgender Day of Remembrance, from Republican presidential

When pressed to affirm that the intensified antiabortion rhetoric, that followed false charges of illegal fetal tissue sales, had helped inspire the deadly mass shooting at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado, Cruz said there was no evidence of a connection to the antiabortion movement, but that there was evidence that the murderer was a “transgendered [sic] leftist activist.”

rnia Dispatch:

You read that right. Apparently accused Planned Parenthood assassin, Robert Dear, is registered to vote as neither a Democrat nor a Republican, which no doubt is enough to classify him as a “leftist activist” to Cruz, and a voter registration error identifies him as female. Just like that, the now-second place GOP candidate, who hopes to galvanize the religious right, deflected attention to the obvious motive of the attack to an invented transphobic ploy. Not surprising for Cruz, whose hometown of Houston had resoundingly defeated an equal rights ordinance just a couple weeks earlier, with a virulent opposition campaign based on the slogan “No men in women’s bathrooms!” The winning argument alleged (complete with some really stupid and pandering advertising cartoons) that in protecting transpeople from discrimination, the law – which had already been enacted by the City Council and in effect for some time – made it legal

for men disguised as the convicted “Olympic women to stalk women’s Park Bomber,” who from bathrooms for sexual prey. 1996-1998 also bombed two women’s clinics and It was a stunning victory the Otherside Lounge, for political scapegoating, an LGBT bar in Atlanta, playing on an irrational, Georgia. imaginary fear that totally overshadowed what the Yes. They should stop ordinance aimed to do, killing us. that is, to protect fifteen categories of vulnerable The hatred and fear that’s people (including leading to this kind of transpeople) from bias in targeted violence couldn’t public accommodations, rise to such a level of overt and support “opportunity terrorism if violence itself for all Houstonians, were not so prevalent, so leading to good jobs, accepted by this society personal success and an as a necessary component excellent quality of life.” of daily life and civic discourse. I do not believe Despite the effort to deny they will stop killing any relationship between transpeople, or any of violent actions against the rest of us, until all the women’s healthcare clinics killing stops. and the anti-abortion movement, there’s actual While shots were ringing evidence, not manipulative out at the Planned propaganda, of Dear’s Parenthood in Colorado political targets. Not only Springs, Black Lives was he reported as saying: Matter activists in “No more baby parts …” Minneapolis were being as he was being arrested, shot at by racist vigilantes, and had boasted to one while protesting the death of his ex-wives that he of yet another young black had once glued the locks man in police custody. of a women’s clinic shut, Shortly thereafter, he’s also known to have Chicagoans were taking praised the so-called Army to the streets demanding of God as “heroes.” That redress of their longloose-knit semi-network standing grievances of far right extremists against their police gave us Eric Rudolph, department, following the EILE Magazine 39

San Bernardino Massacre Photo: BBC.co.uk

release of a videotaped “officer involved shooting” in which still another young black man was fired upon -- sixteen times – shots that continued long after he was on the ground. There’s little healing balm coming from the political class. Congressional Democrats can’t get gun control legislation around the dominance of the National Rifle Association. Republican presidential candidates, a couple of whom have encouraged their supporters to “rough up” protesters at their rallies, preach what sounds like a return to the rules of the Old West, suggesting that more people with guns – imagine armed doctors to defend clinics, armed teachers to protect schoolchildren, armed popcorn vendors to return 40 EILE Magazine

fire at movie theaters, armed by-standers ready to draw down whenever they deem it necessary to uphold the peace (as they see it) – would solve the problem of gun violence. Of course there’s no evidence that turning every kind of venue into a free-fire-zone would lead to safer communities. It won’t stop them from killing us. And now, as I sit writing this, an hour or so from Los Angeles in San Bernardino (known in the recent past for its bankruptcy and flourishing hate groups) there’s been another mass killing. For the first few hours of gunfire and searches and lockdowns and chases, it seemed like a “typical” American rampage, but it became clear later on that the

incident at the Inland Regional Center had tentacles reaching into the terrorism of our war-torn world. The siren song of what Robin Morgan called “The Demon Lover” (see her book on the sexuality of terrorism of that title, published in 1989 and 2001) swept away a pair of apparently unlikely jihadists, who left 14 innocents plus themselves dead, and 21 wounded. An echo of the attacks in Paris a couple of weeks before, echoing dozens of other maniacal bloodbaths that don’t command the world’s headlines, and flags at half-staff, because that kind of slaughter is less shocking when it happens outside Europe and the U.S. “If we can just kill all of them,” declares a

Quality LGBT News and Features – Produced from Los Angeles Available via podcast on our website (thiswayout.org) or on iTunes, and on 200+ Radio Stations Worldwide!

thiswayout.org | Twitter: @TWORadio Overnight Productions (Inc.)/”This Way Out” Post Office Box 1065 Los Angeles, CA 90078 U.S.A. EILE Magazine 41

frightened populace eager to fall into bed with The Demon Lover themselves, “then they’ll stop killing us.” One of those killed during the San Bernardino assault was Daniel Kaufman, 42, a gay man who ran a coffee cart at the Center, where he trained developmentally disabled adults. Kaufman is said to have helped four other people escape the hail of bullets before he was shot dead. He was a twenty-year veteran actor at the Renaissance Faire, and a friend tells me that he always spent a couple of days delivering flowers to all the women who worked booths, “with a flourish and a kiss on the hand.” At a memorial held for Kaufman by his Faire family, his partner, Ryan Reyes, said he spoke for both of them in urging people not to treat Muslims any differently than anyone else as a result of the massacre. “We do not hold all Christians accountable for the actions of the Westboro Baptist Church,” Reyes said, “so why do we blame all Muslims for the actions of THEIR version of Westboro? It makes no sense.” To no real surprise, the late Fred “God Hates Fags” Phelps’ descendants from Westboro Baptist Church promised to picket Kaufman’s memorial – and all the other services for the San Bernardino victims – because he was gay, and also because marriage equality and reproductive rights make the U.S. deserving of God’s wrath at the hands of terrorists. Stopping the violence – against transpeople, against women, against the planet, against each other -- isn’t that easy at all. It’s the ultimate game of chicken. Who’ll stop killing first?

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Lucia Chappelle is Associate Producer of the Los Angeles-based LGBT radio programme, This Way Out

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Aodhán Ó Riordáin Hosts Meeting ‘After The Yes’ On LGBT Rights, With Speakers Brian Sheehan And Anne-Marie Lillis Last night (8 November) at the Marine Hotel in Sutton, Minister of State at the Dept of Justice & Equality, Aodhán Ó Riordáin, hosted a meeting about what was needed to ensure that the recent legislation on LGBT discrimination, equal marriage, and section 37.1, was fully implemented. This would ensure that the lived experience for LGBT people and youth was improved permanently. The meeting was entitled: After The Yes: What 44 EILE Magazine

Next for LGBT Rights in Ireland? Aodhán introduced two speakers, Brian Sheehan, Executive Director of GLEN (Gay & Lesbian Network) and Anne-Marie Lillis, Chairperson INTO (Irish National Teachers’ Organisation) LGBT. Brian Sheehan began by referring to the recent marriage referendum, and said “we live in a transformed Ireland” where things had been gradually improving for the LGBT community since decriminalisation, after which people became more open. He also said that when all the political parties supported Civil Partnerships, this sent a signal, even to activists in other countries, that

to continue trying would eventually yield results. He hoped that “this would be the last generation that has to struggle for our rights”. Brian then gave the audience a fews facts to make clear why there was a need for a strategy or roadmap, to see that any improvements in legislation would lead to real change in society. For instance, whereas the most common age for people to self-identify as gay was 12 years, the most common age for them to come out to others was 15 years, a gap of three years. He also felt that parents need to know how to support their LGBT child, as should schools and colleges. From there, the next area is the

From left: Labour Cllr Brian McDonagh, Brian Sheehan, Executive Director of GLEN, Anne-Marie Lillis of INTO LGBT, and Minister of State at Dept of Justice & Equality, Aodhán Ó Riordáin – Photo: Marty O’Prey

workplace, which should also ensure that there is no discrimination or harassment toward the LGBT person. Further, that this should not be done in a negative way as in stopping discrimination, but in a positive way, that is, to promote the fostering of a school or workplace that is welcoming and supportive. He saw a need for HIV information to be readily available to those who need it, as there has been a rise in HIV rates among younger men over the last

number of years. Brian also commented on the fact that in the health services, there appears to be lack of education among medical staff as to their responsibilities towards the LGBT community, and when it comes to elderly LGBT looking for a place in care homes, they often feel that they have to go back into the closet for fear of not getting a place. He pointed to the diversity among LGBT people in regard to age, class etc, and to the fact that

in the recent marriage referendum, 80-90% in working class areas voted ‘Yes’. Also mentioned was that, although Aodhán Ó Riordáin was the Equality Minister, noone in government had any title with ‘LGBT’ in it. Brian said that the ‘strategy’ was for equality to be achieved, and the ‘roadmap’ was how to achieve it. For this to come about, he reckoned that it would take about five years. He concluded that EILE Magazine 45

although this progress appears to have happened very suddenly in Ireland, it has actually taken approximately 25 years to get to this point, and we’re not fully there yet.

teachers from speaking about homophobia etc. It was Sheila Crowley speaking at the INTO conference that put section 37.1 on the political and educational agendas.

Aodhán next introduced Anne-Marie Lillis, chairperson of the INTO LGBT, and she opened by paying tribute to Sheila Crowley. Sheila was the first chairperson of INTO LGBT, and gave the first ever INTO LGBT address to the INTO conference in Kilkenny in 2008, received a standing ovation, and is now living with her partner in Kerry.

Anne-Marie stated that section 37.1 was part of the structure of homophobia in schools, although it is now illegal to discriminate against teachers on the basis of sexual orientation. Her way forward involved continuing to work with the trade unions, which would have a knockon effect on the rest of society.

Anne-Marie also spoke of the recent legislation to remove section 37.1, which had allowed religious-run schools to discriminate against LGBT teachers on the basis of their sexual orientation, which could be construed as undermining the ethos of the school, leading to dismissal. Anne-Marie told how Sheila Crowley was also the first person to coin the phrase ‘the chill factor’ about section 37.1, something which was not tangible, but was like walking into a cold room. It had the effect of silencing LGBT people, and prevented other 46 EILE Magazine

She felt that it was crucial that the Department of Education send out a circular to all schools to outline their responsibilities in regard to the changed legislation, including their responsibility to monitor homophobia for both students and teachers. Anne-Marie also felt that visibility was very important, and that books should be on the curriculum which included LGBT stories, also posters, and library books. It was important to have anti-bullying procedures in place, as it is now compulsory for schools to tackle homophobia and

transphobia. However, there is a need for guidance and resources for teachers. She referred to the recent ‘Different Families – Same Love’ posters, which were to be seen by children between 4 and 12, and included guidelines for teachers. She ended by saying that children love stories, and would learn about LGBT people through stories. However, there was a lack of such storybooks out there. There was a question and answer session afterwards, at which Aodhán mentioned how some people are still not comfortable coming out, citing the occasion when some LGBT people moved out of a photo with the President of Ireland, rather than be seen by family or friends who did not know they were gay. He felt interpretation was important. Brian answered a question about mental health issues with drugs and alcohol among some LGBT. He said they may be regarded as mad, sad and bad if they go for help, and systemic change is needed. He also said any service is ineffective if it does not include LGBTI. He said there were challenges like transition issues,

legacy issues and core issues, which may lead to drink, drugs and homelessness. Many homeless are LGBT young people. He commented on the finding that when mental health strategies are changed, suicide rates go up. It is therefore necessary that gays don’t feel marginalised. It is different to something like racism, as in racism, the whole family may experience it and so understand, while with homophobia, none of the rest of the family are experiencing it. Aodhán explained the need to include these strategies in a manifesto, as if not in the manifesto, it cannot be in the programme for government, and therefore there can be no argument to bring it forward. Anne-Marie mentioned that there can still be homophobia in other organisations like sports clubs, and so there should be someone who is in charge of LGBT issues in the club personnel, to ensure that there is no dressing-room homophobia, for instance. Someone asked about the role of religion in regard to getting these strategies implemented, as he still wants to be part of a religion, yet feels rejected by it, and realised

at a recent heterosexual wedding that all of the priest’s pronouncements were to emphasise that he still felt that marriage was between a man and a woman. Brian Sheehan said the LGBT community had been wellserved by politicians and programmes for government, acknowledging Labour’s special contribution to progress.

or teachers, may not see the seriousness of homophobic bullying. Some staff may also be anti-LGBT, in spite of new legislation. The meeting then concluded, and Aodhán Ó Riordáin thanked the speakers and the audience. -MButler

He said Irish people want to see this equality in, and “want it for their children”. However, funding for various groups who had been active in the campaign had all but run out, and so may need a budget for NGOs to be provided by the government. Anne-Marie again mentioned that as soon as possible, a circular, which would only cost the price of the paper, should be sent to schools, outlining the implications of the new legislation, to rid the schools of homophobia and discrimination. M. Butler asked if there should also be a designated LGBT-trained teacher on the school staff, so that children experiencing homophobic bullying had someone to go to for help or to report it, as many school staff, either principals EILE Magazine 47

Irish/American Gay Couple Marry in First Humanist Ceremony in Ballinacurra House, Kinsale After the initial euphoria and groundbreaking Marriage Equality Referendum result in May this year, the rush was on this week as couples exchanged vows after the equality laws became legal. Ireland’s first Humanist (nonreligious) same-sex wedding took place in Kinsale at Ballinacurra House yesterday (Saturday, 21 November 2015) where Raymond Davidson and Daryl Gunning completed the legalities. In other firsts, the courts also advised them they are the first secular couple to get a marriage extension for a non-civil registry 48 EILE Magazine

office wedding, and, given the strong bonds, it’s also the first Irish/American tie-up as well – no doubt the start of many more to come. Humanist registrar, Norma McElligott, officiated in a stylish private ceremony in the ballroom of the magnificent Georgian estate, joined by family and friends. New Jersey born, Ray, and Dublin native, Daryl, who both work at University College Cork (UCC), have been together over 6 years, and engaged since September 2013. They had been planning their wedding for months with much enthusiasm, whilst keeping a close eye on the passage of the Marriage Act 2015. Central to their dream day was the choice of venue and location. They selected the exclusive Ballinacurra House, which is well-known for being different and private. “We didn’t want 2 ceremonies; one for the date of civil partnership and then another

for the legal partnership. We are true romantics, and wanted one special day that we can mark every year, and celebrate as we grow old together. Now that the law has changed, having one ceremony that is fully recognised is a dream come true, and it really is the icing on the cake for us,” said Raymond. Ray & Daryl are the first gay couple to marry in Ballinacurra House, as well as in Kinsale itself, and also the country’s first Humanist ceremony. Though Ballincurra has long been the destination of choice for couples at home and abroad due to the uniqueness of the property, this wedding is really very special for the hotel as well, during this historic week that ushered in a new era for gay rights. The first thing almost every potential client says, owner Des McGahan reveals, is that they are looking for something different, something special. “We are very excited about the results of the recent referendum and hosting Ray & Daryl on this historic as well as happy

Daryl Gunning from Dublin and Ray Davidson from New Jersey who were married at Ballinacurra House, with owner Des McGahan and Humanist Solemniser Norma McElligott – Picture: John Allen

occasion… It’s going to mean a whole change in the style and direction of weddings, and what will be most in demand is a place that offers something unique”.

“A wedding isn’t about what persuasion you are, it’s about people, people who love each other and want to celebrate their wedding in a way they will always remember. For every couple it’s their special, only day. Samesex, opposite-sex, we’re

all human beings with the capacity to love, and that is something wonderful.” The hotel has been a supporter of the gay community and recently sponsored Cork Pride Parade. Taking pride of place at the parade was a magnificent white 1965 white Cadillac de Ville with red interiors – with Ballinacurra House livery – saying “Gay is OK”. The beautiful Manor House, set on the lush 40-acre woodlands with views of the

Bandon River, was also the honeymoon destination sought by Kim Kardashian & Kanye West for their visit to Ireland, but was unavailable at the time. After the sweepingly positive result of the recent referendum, weddings are going to be big news in Ireland, as the country took the lead as the first in the world to do so by a vote of the people, joining over 20 other countries globally to approve equal marriage. (eile.ie 22 November 2015) EILE Magazine 49

First Gay Couples Married Under Ireland’s New Marriage Act! Clonmel in the county of Tipperary was first in Ireland to see another first – the first gay couple to get married here according to our new marriage laws, and so to make history!

and truly achieved their goal.

The couple, Cormac Gollogly and Richard Dowling, who married at 8.40am this morning, before registrar MaryClaire Heffernan, were in a Civil Partnership since last September, and had already had one big day out, which took place on 18 September, at Kilshane House, Tipperary, but wanted to become the first to get married here, and they well

However, they wanted to make history, and, as Richard told reporters after the marriage ceremony:

They considered that that day, the 18th, was really their wedding day, after a 12 year relationship, and it was celebrated with family and friends.Their relationship started after a night out in the George when they were both 22 years-of-age.

“This is formalising the legalities of our marriage.We wanted to get in the history books, and be first across the line”. Cormac said:

David ‘DJ’ (left) & Wayne (right), just pipped at the post to have the first gay marriage, but doing it in style! – Stephen Mac Photography

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“I really wanted to thank everyone in the Yes Equality campaign. Their hard work really paid off”. Another couple, Wayne Gough and David ‘DJ’ O’Hanlon, were just pipped at the post as the first gay marriage. Although they also had a big day out for their Civil Partnership in September after 9 years together, they managed to have their full marriage before 30 people in the Donegal hotel, Harvey’s Point Hotel, today. They feel happy that their relationship is now legally recognised in Ireland. -MKB (eile.ie 17 November 2015)

Richard Dowling (left) and Cormac Gollogly, who were the first to get married under the new Irish marriage laws

Wayne Gough and David O’Hanlon, Harvey’s Point Hotel, Donegal – Stephen Mac Photography

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Marriage Act - Registration Details & Listings For LGBT Couples Who Wish To Get Married In Ireland Mark the date! Start getting your documents together. From today, all same-sex couples are able to give notice of their intention to marry. The extra good news is that if you have tied the knot in another country, your marriage will automatically be recognised from today’s date. If you have already given notice of intention to enter into a civil partnership, the choice of entering into marriage instead is now open to you. The registrar will contact you to ask for your preference, and you may have to bring in some

|Waterford | Westmeath | Wexford |Wicklow | Minister for Justice & Equality, Frances Fitzgerald, last week (10 November) signed the Commencement Order for the Marriage Act 2015, and today is the day that the LGBT community can finally give notice of their intention to marry, or have their marriage from another country become legal here. Here are the details of what you need to bring, and how long it takes before you can set the date. This informations is, to the best of our knowledge, up to date. However, it is best to check with your local registration office for any changes to the information below:

From Left: Brian Sheehan GLEN, Mark Kelly ICCL, Minister Frances Fitzgerald, and Gráinne Healy Marriage Equality, after the passing of the Marriage Bill 2015

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The following are the requirements for your appointment to attend the Registrar’s Office to give your Three Month Notification of Intention to Marry. Both parties must attend the appointment together. Please note that this is a guideline list as in certain circumstances the Registrar may seek further details at interview.

or □ Refugee/Asylum card issued by the Department of Justice and Law Reform (must be in date), or □ National ID card from those EU countries where they are an accepted form of travel document (must be in date)

IMPORTANT: If you do not bring the required documents with you, a second appointment will be necessary.

N.B. A photocopy of the passport photo page or other prescribed photo ID, as outlined above, must be supplied. This photocopy should be in colour, and of best quality, otherwise a passportsized photo is required

EACH PERSON MUST BRING THEIR ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS

□ Original (Full) Birth Certificate, for both parties, and photocopy of same

□ Passport (must be in date),

N.B. If either party was

born outside of Ireland, a Birth Certificate bearing an Apostille Stamp from the Embassy of origin is required. If an Apostille stamp is not obtainable, then a letter from that Embassy attesting the authenticity of the certificate should be supplied. The following countries are exempted from the requirement to have their birth certificates stamped or authenticated:Denmark, Italy, France, Belgium and Latvia. □ Nature of Ceremony (Civil/ Religious). □ Name of Registered Solemniser □ Name & Date of Birth of both witnesses (must be over 18 years of age)

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□ PPS Number is required for all parties who have a current and/or a future address within the state. IF ONE OR BOTH PARTIES ARE NOT A CITIZEN OF IRELAND OR AN EU MEMBER STATE: □ Documentary evidence of immigration status □ If the language used to communicate with each other is not English or Irish, each party must provide an independent interpreter in that language. This is in addition to the need for an interpreter to give notice of intention to marry/enter into a civil partnership to the registrar. Interpreters must be from an independent verifiable translation / interpretation provider. IF DIVORCED □ Irish Divorce – original or a certified copy, granted under Section 5 (1) of the Family Law Divorce Act 1996, stamped by the relevant Court or Solicitor, and photocopy of same. □ If there is a stay on the Court Order of the Divorce Decree provide a copy of the Court Order to the Registrar. □ Foreign Divorce – Please contact the Registrar prior to your appointment. IF WIDOWED □ Original civil marriage certificate, and photocopy of same. 54 EILE Magazine

□ Original civil death certificate of late spouse, and photocopy of same. IF YOU HAVE A CIVIL ANNULMENT □ Original civil annulment court order, and photocopy of same. □ A letter from the relevant Court, confirming that no appeal has been lodged against the Nullity Order FEE □ Prescribed notification fee of €200 (Non-refundable). Additional charges apply for outside venues. IMPORTANT NOTES Birth Certificate – where a birth certificate originating outside of the State is presented, it should bear an Apostille stamp, or, if an Apostille stamp is not obtainable from the country in question, the birth certificate should be accompanied by a letter from the relevant Embassy attesting its authenticity. The following countries are exempted from the requirement to have their birth certificates stamped or authenticated: Denmark, Italy, France, Belgium and Latvia. Where any of the above documents are not written in the Irish or English Language CERTIFIED TRANSLATIONS into English from an independent verifiable translation company

must be provided. Where one or both of the parties to the proposed marriage, the witnesses, or the solemniser has a limited knowledge of the English language, the services of an interpreter is required f, the Interpreter must be from an independent verifiable translation company and be present for both the notification and the marriage. At the notification meeting, you will be asked to sign a declaration that there is no impediment to your marriage. If you are having a religious marriage, you will also be given the Marriage Registration Form, which is the authorisation for the marriage to proceed. This form will be signed by you, your witnesses and your Solemniser on the day of the marriage. The MRF should be returned to any Registrar’s office within 30 days, following which, your marriage will be registered. It will then be possible for you to purchase a marriage certificate from any Civil Registration Office (€20). Best wishes to all of you who are soon to be married! -MKB (eile.ie 16 November 2015) Please note, these details are meant as a guide only, and may have changed since time of writing. It is best to check with your local registration office. GOOD LUCK!

Little Gem is proud to present the first year label compilation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Little Gem 1 Featuring: Fierce Mild, GODHATESDISCO, Heart-Sick Groans, I Heart The Monster Hero, Night Trap & White Sage 2015 has been a great year for Little Gem as a small label bringing extraordinary music to the world. EILE Magazine 55

GLEN (the Gay & Lesbian Network) has issued this helpful notice t law in Ireland, and the commencement order, so that civil marriag some answers to frequently asked questions! 56 EILE Magazine

to fill the short gap between the signing of the Marriage Act 2015 into ges can start taking place. For those of you planning to get married, For more information, visit www.glen.ie EILE Magazine 57

BeLonG To Announces Moninne Griffith As New Executive Director BeLonG To, the national organisation for LGBT young people, has today announced the appointment of Moninne Griffith to the role of Executive Director. Moninne joins BeLonG To from her role of Director at advocacy organisation Marriage Equality, which worked to secure equal marriage rights for same-sex couples in Ireland. Before joining Marriage Equality in 2008, Griffith worked as a solicitor in private practice for 10 years. She also holds a Master’s degree in Women’s Studies and is the Chair of the National Women’s Council of Ireland. Announcing the appointment, Anna Quigley, Chair of BeLonG To, said: “We are very pleased that Moninne is joining BeLonG To as Executive Director. She has 58 EILE Magazine

great passion and a wealth of experience in advocating for equality and rights issues which will be hugely beneficial for the development of our organisation.” Speaking about the important role of BeLonG To, Moninne said: “I have been a supporter of BeLonG To’s great work with young LGBT people and their parents for many years and am delighted to take up the post of Executive Director. “Over the past eight years, I have dedicated my time to progressing equality for same sex couples and our families. While the success of this campaign has borne fruit – especially in recent days with the first weddings of same sex couples taking place – I am acutely aware that challenges of discrimination, bullying and the resulting mental health risks remain critical issues facing the LGBT community, particularly when it comes to young people. “In May, the Irish people

changed forever what it means to grow up LGBT in Ireland and now we have the great opportunity to be world leaders again and stamp out homophobic and transphobic bullying in our schools and communities.” For more information visit: www.belongto.org (eile.ie 24 November 2015)

New Executive Director of BelongTo Moninne Griffith

â&#x20AC;&#x153; I am acutely aware that challenges of discrimination, bullying and the resulting mental health risks remain critical issues facing the LGBT community, particularly when it comes to young peopleâ&#x20AC;? -Moninne Griffith

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Dáil passes Bill to remove ‘chill factor’ for LGBT teachers in religious-run schools The Dáil passed all stages of the Equality (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2013 by acclaim, this week (2nd November). The Bill amends the provisions of Section 37(1) of the Employment Equality Act to remove the ‘chill factor’ for LGBT employees of religious run institutions. The Bill has already passed through the Seanad and will now go to the President for signing. “We are delighted that this Bill has passed all stages in the Dáil tonight. This Bill is the key piece of the legislative map that will allow LGBT people to be 60 EILE Magazine

themselves, get married and have a family without a threat to their job if they work in a religious run institution” said Sandra Irwin-Gowran, Director of Education Policy with GLEN. “To date Section 37.1 has served to create a chilling effect for many LGBT employees. The existing provisions posed a threat of discrimination which has served to silence thousands of teachers in our schools” said IrwinGowran. “The Bill passed tonight will go a long way towards thawing the threat hanging over LGBT and other employees. GLEN affirms the principle that every employee should enjoy equal protections in their workplace and in their recruitment and promotion prospects. This Bill removes a major barrier to that principle for those working in publicly funded institutions. We also note where further progress remains to be made for privately funded religious-

run institutions, for trans people and for those of no religion” continued IrwinGowran. “The passage of this Bill by the Oireachtas marks the final step in a remarkable year for equality for LGBT people” added Kieran Rose, Co-Chair of GLEN. “We would like to express our thanks to Minister Aodhán Ó Riordáin, and Ministers Frances Fitzgerald and Jan O’Sullivan, and the officials at the Department of Justice, for their great achievement in bringing this Bill to fruition. TDs and Senators from all sides of the House have strongly backed this Bill throughout its development” Rose stated. “It augurs well for the remaining work that needs to done to improve the lives of LGBT people that this level of leadership and support is given to removing the barriers to equality for LGBT people” he continued. “This Bill has wider

implications for our schools and in particular for LGBT young people; it provides a critical springboard for the cultural change necessary in our schools; change that ensures that all people, whether theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working or learning, can do so in an environment that is welcoming and affirming of who they are. While legislation is very important, everyone with an interest in ensuring that schools are welcoming and safe have a role to play in creating such a cultureâ&#x20AC;?, concluded Irwin-Gowran.

The provisions applied to almost all primary schools and to many hospitals, and had served to create a chill factor and threat for all employees who may not have matched the institutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ethos, including LGBT people, people who were divorced or had a child outside marriage. (eile.ie 4 December 2015)

The Bill amends a section of the Employment Equality Act that prioritised the ethos of a religious-run institution over protections for people working in those institutions. The amended Bill shifts the emphasis on protection to the employee rather than the institution.

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Human Rights Day: UN’s Favourite Quotes December 10 is Human Rights Day, a day commemorating the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the importance of securing human rights for all people. This year, December 10 also marks the launch of a year-long campaign for the 50th anniversary of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Together with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, these two covenants form the International Bill of Human Rights. This campaign will highlight the value of freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and 62 EILE Magazine

freedom from fear. In honor of Human Rights Day, here are 11 of our favorite quotes: “When the fundamental principles of human rights are not protected, the centre of our institution no longer holds. It is they that promote development that is sustainable; peace that is secure; and lives of dignity.” – UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” – Nelson Mandela “We declare that human rights are for all of us, all the time: whoever we are and wherever we are from; no matter our class, our opinions, our sexual orientation.” – UN SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon

to hope for a better future, to have control over their lives, when you deprive them of that choice, then you expect them to fight for these rights.” – Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan

“Freedom means the supremacy of human rights everywhere. Our support goes to those who struggle to gain those rights or keep them. Our strength is our unity of purpose. To that high concept there can be no end save victory.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

“A right delayed is a right denied.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

“Our hopes for a more just, safe, and peaceful world can only be achieved when there is universal respect for the inherent dignity and equal rights of all members of the human family.” – UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka

“When you deprive people of their right to live in dignity,

“Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small

places, close to home – so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world. … Unless these rights have meaning there, they have little meaning anywhere. Without concerned citizen action to uphold them close to home, we shall look in vain for progress in the larger world.” – Eleanor Roosevelt “The rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened.” – John F. Kennedy “There may be times when we are powerless to prevent injustice, but there must never be a time when we fail to protest.” – Elie Wiesel “There can be no peace without development, no development without peace, and no lasting peace or sustainable development without respect for human rights and the rule of law.” – UN Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson – Madeline Branch UN Foundation (eile.ie 10 December 2015) EILE Magazine 63

Australia Tasmanian Commissioner for Children Welcomes Support for Equal Marriage

Tasmania’s Commissioner for Children issued a statement last week, after Tasmania’s parliament endorsed marriage equality. It stated: “The Commissioner for 64 EILE Magazine

Children has today welcomed the message of support from Tasmania’s Parliament to Canberra, on the issue of marriage equality. This affirming message is of particular importance to the children of same sex parents. “Tasmanian children come from many different types of families. Marriage equality is really important to children. It sends the message that their parents’ relationship is just as important and valid as any other family arrangement. This helps to build a child’s sense of self-worth and acceptance by their peers,”

said Mr Morrissey. “The decision to marry should be a choice available to all couples; to deny that choice is discriminatory and unfortunately sends an unacceptable message to the children of samesex parents that their family is somehow less accepted and valued by the community. As we know, peer acceptance and “fitting in” are really important for children of all ages,” Mr Morrissey said.

Image: Australian Marriage Equality “The adoption of marriage equality is an important step in validating the experience of children of same-sex parents. Children of these families often suffer bullying and discrimination. Recognition of same-sex relationships is a positive step toward removing stigma,” the Commissioner said. The Convention on the Rights of the Child reflects the importance of family to children and young people. It recognises children’s right to live free from discrimination and to grow up in a caring, secure environment regardless of their parent’s sexual identity or orientation. It is the quality of care, love and support that a child receives that has the most profound impact on the overall wellbeing, not the sexual identity or orientation of their parents.

Marriage equality is an important step towards ensuring that children grow up in a society where they feel valued, safe and secure, regardless of their family structure. Whilst there were differing views on the issue, all involved in this discussion are to be applauded for their respectful approach to this debate. Last night’s decision sends a strong and positive message that the Tasmanian Parliament acknowledges that loving families can come in many forms. Mark Morrissey Commissioner for Children” (eile.ie 24 November 2015) EILE Magazine 65

Express Scripts To Join Turing Rival, Imprimis, To Give Low Price HIV Pill The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, issued the following statement on the news that Express Scripts will partner with Imprimis Pharmaceuticals to offer a lowcost alternative to Daraprim, a lifesaving treatment for people living with HIV.

and hiked the price of this crucial drug by 5,000 percent overnight. “This is a positive development that will improve access to lifesaving treatment for many patients, including people living with HIV and pregnant women,” said HRC President Chad Griffin.

“It doesn’t change the troubling fact that Martin Shkreli and Turing Pharmaceuticals despicably preyed on vulnerable patients in an effort to turn a profit. Lawmakers should seek answers, hold Turing and Express Scripts will be able to make the new HIV Shkreli to account treatment pill available and ensure this can’t for approximately $1. happen again.” Two months ago, Turing Pharmaceuticals’ CEO Martin Shkreli bought the rights to Daraprim

66 EILE Magazine

Just before Thanksgiving, Turing Pharmaceuticals’ Martin Shkreli announced that he would

continue the price hike on Daraprim – a crucial treatment for people living with HIV, pregnant women, and others with weakened immune systems. The announcement came two months after the company first made headlines for an outrageous 5,000 percent price increase on Daraprim, which took the price from $13.50 to $750 per pill overnight. Express Scripts announced their alternative will be made available for as low as $1 per capsule for people whose pharmacy benefit is managed by the company. Last month, at HRC’s urging, New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman began investigating whether Turing Pharmaceuticals may have violated antitrust laws by limiting

George Paz CEO Express Scripts From Left: Deirdre Duffy ICCL, Gráinne Healy Marriage Equality, Min Frances Fitzgerald, Tánaiste Joan Burton, and Kieran Rose GLEN co-chair

distribution of a drug that is essential to the lives of medically vulnerable people. HRC also sent letters to Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-TN), Chair of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions; Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI), Chair of the Committee on Energy and Commerce; and Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-UT), Chair of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, seeking an investigation into the unconscionable

action of Turing Pharmaceuticals. The letters also called for an inquiry into Turing’s acquisition of Daraprim, the pricing strategy for the drug, investments made to bring the drug to market, the impact of that strategy on patient access, and the increased cost to federally-funded health programs. And they requested a hearing on formulary and tiering structure for prescription medications offered through health exchanges.

HRC also joined 151 other organizations from across the nation in signing an open letter to Turing Pharmaceuticals urging company CEO Martin Shkreli to restore the original price for Daraprim. The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. (eile.ie 7 December 2015)

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Unionist Cllr Julie-Anne Corr on Marriage Equality in Dublin One of Belfast’s few openly gay politicians gave a talk on 10 December in Dublin on marriage equality and LGBT issues, from a Northern Unionist perspective. Julie-Anne Corr, a Councillor for the Oldpark district of Belfast, is a member and representative of the Progressive Unionist

Party, one of the few unionist parties which advocate for LGBT rights and marriage equality in Northern Ireland. Her talk in Dublin on Thursday, 10th December, was to tease out the attitudes of Northern Ireland’s unionist, Protestant and loyalist communities regarding marriage equality and LGBT issues. Ms Corr’s talk is part of the Our Friends From Belfast series, which aims to break down negative perceptions of the PUL community (Protestant, Unionist, Loyalist) that

Progressive Unionist Party Councillor Julie-Ann Corr

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many in the Republic of Ireland may have. Other topics covered in the series include the Irish language, the Easter 1916 Rising, the Arts, and the PUL community’s view of the Republic. The talk started at 1pm at Liberty Hall in Dublin, with a brief Q&A session afterwards. The talks are free, and organised by Partners in Catalyst in association with the Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation. (eile.ie December 2015)

Slovenia: Voters Overturn Gay Marriage Amendment In a referendum held in Slovenia yesterday (Sunday 20 December) the country voted to overturn an amendment to the Marriage & Family Relations Act, which had allowed samesex marriage and adoption from last March.

against the law.

The mainly Catholic and previously communist country of 2 million citizens could have allowed the legalised equal marriage to stand. However, in what was a very low turnout for the referendum (36%) the people decided against. The government were in favour of gay marriage, but did not campaign for it to be upheld. The conservative Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) the party in opposition, were

By referendum rules, 20% of voters, in Slovenia’s case 343,000, needed to vote against the motion, and this figure was exceeded by 40,000 approximately.

Anti-gay marriage supporters, urged on by the Catholic Church, had used ‘Children are at stake’ as their slogan, and petitioned for the referendum. In a result that saw 63% vote against equal marriage, the amendment to change the wording of marriage as between two people, instead of between a man and a woman, was overturned.

All eight electoral units rejected marriage equality, with 51.4% against in Ljubljana centre, to 73% against in Ptuj in eastern Slovenia.

to continue the battle to bring marriage equality to Slovenia. United Left (ZL) MP, Violeta Tomic, stated: “We will persevere. Human rights are something that needs to be fought for constantly”. The amendment allowing equal marriage, passed in March, did not come into effect, because the anti-gay group ‘For Children’ went to the highest court in Slovenia to force a referendum. Couples in Slovenia have been allowed to register their partnership since 2006, and can adopt their partner’s child, but not a child from outside the relationship. -MKB (eile.ie 21 December 2015)

Yes supporters have pledged

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380 Health Professionals Attend First Trans Healthcare Conference Yesterday, 380 healthcare professionals attended the first National Transgender Healthcare Conference in Carlow.

experience at a mental health service.

Speaking after the conference, Dr Philip Crowley, HSE National Director, the Quality Improvement Division, said: “The HSE is in the process of developing treatment pathways for transgender people. We must build on the services This event was organised we already have and by the HSE in partnership reach a consensus on a with Transgender Equality pathway that is effective, Network Ireland (TENI). respectful and based in International and national good practice. We need experts, including Prof. to do this in partnership Peggy Cohen-Kettenis and with key stakeholders, Prof. Donal O’Shea, spoke including the transgender about their experiences community.” treating trans people and the need for evidenceThe HSE’s proposed based health services for treatment pathway will trans people in Ireland. go to consultation in January. Trans people report significant barriers to “I believe we are seeing accessing health services. the dawn of a new era In TENI’s Speaking from of trans healthcare the Margins report, the delivery that is holistic largest study of trans and patient-centered,” people in Ireland, 74% said TENI Health and of participants reported Education Manager a negative experience Vanessa Lacey. at a health service and 69% reported a negative 70 EILE Magazine

“This conference was an important step towards developing greater knowledge and understanding among health professionals and a unique opportunity for partnershipbuilding.” In a survey of 793 HSE Health and Social Care Professionals, 90% of respondents stated that they had not had any training on trans issues and 74% of respondents indicated that they would like training in this area. TENI has delivered 67 trainings to nearly 2,000 healthcare professionals since the beginning of 2015. “At the conference we saw a clear emphasis on the diversity of trans experiences and an understanding of gender as existing on a spectrum.

There is no doubt in my mind that to improve trans healthcare in Ireland we need a clear treatment pathway alongside holistic and comprehensive healthcare services for trans people and their families. We also need to look at regional services,” concluded Ms. Lacey. In TENI’s Speaking from the Margins report, researchers found high levels of suicidality within the trans community: 78% of participants reported thinking about ending their lives and 40% of those reported attempting suicide at least once. Participants also reported common experiences of stress (83%), depression (82%) and anxiety (73%). The report also found that transition had a positive impact on a trans person’s mental health, with 75% of participants reporting that they felt that their mental health had improved. The positive impact was even more significant in terms of suicidality, with the majority of respondents reporting that they thought about or attempted suicide less after transition (81% thought about suicide or attempting suicide more before transition). (eile.ie 4 December 2015)

“There is no doubt in my mind that to improve trans healthcare in Ireland we need a clear treatment pathway alongside holistic and comprehensive healthcare services for trans people and their families. We also need to look at regional services”

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Australia: MP Bleijie ‘Change Of Heart’ Marriage Equality Support Welcomed Advocates have welcomed a change of heart on marriage equality from Queensland MP and former AttorneyGeneral, Jarrod Bleijie, who had previously championed the abolition of that state’s Civil Union Act. Bleijie, who is a committed Christian and marriage celebrant, said he had changed his mind, and is now a supporter of marriage equality, after speaking to a same-sex couple and reflecting on the nature of marriage. However, he also said that supporting civil unions and same-sex marriage

72 EILE Magazine

had not been an easy journey for him.

“I have gone from being the attorneygeneral responsible for abolishing samesex civil partnerships in Queensland, to intending to vote in favour in the forthcoming federal plebiscite” he said. In a column in Sunday’s Courier Mail, Mr Bleijie, Shadow Minister for Police, Fire, Emergency Services and Corrective Services, wrote:

“Marriage should be a statement of love and commitment between the happy couple; not an institution that rejects those who wish to enter it with the best intentions.’’ Mr Bleijie said he

will now support the re-introduction of civil partnerships in Queensland. Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, commented: “Mr Bleijie’s support for marriage equality shows this is an issue that can be supported by people of faith and by social conservatives.” “I applaud Mr Bleijie for opening his heart to those same-sex partners who want to uphold the values of marriage and share its traditions.” “With support growing right across the social and religious spectrum it’s becoming harder to see why we need a plebiscite, but if we do have one the outcome is increasingly likely to be ‘yes’.” (eile.ie 2 December 2015)

Queensland MP and former Attorney-General, Jarrod Bleijie

“Marriage should be a statement of love and commitment between the happy couple; not an institution that rejects those who wish to enter it with the best intentions.’’ EILE Magazine 73

World Aids Day: Latest HIV Data Shows Continuing High Rates of Cases Amongst MSM To mark World AIDS Day today (Tuesday 1st December) GLEN (Gay & Lesbian Network) will appear at the Oireachtas Health Committee to tell members that the continuing high rates of HIV diagnosis amongst gay and bisexual men emphasises the need for targeted interventions to ensure people know their HIV status. “It is clear from the latest figures that HIV remains an issue of critical concern for gay and bisexual men. The figures for 2015 show that gay and bisexual men are the group most likely to acquire HIV in Ireland. There remains a clear need for gay and bisexual men to know their HIV status” 74 EILE Magazine

said Tiernan Brady, Director of Gay HIV Strategies (GHS) with GLEN. Figures released by the HSE’s Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) show that there were 205 newly diagnosed cases of HIV in Ireland in the first 6 months of 2015. 95 of the new diagnoses were gay and bisexual men, up from 94 cases for the same period in 2014 and 83 in 2013. Between 2005 and 2014, there has been a four-fold increase in the number of new diagnoses among those aged between 25-34 years. The average median age of HIV diagnosis for gay and bisexual men has fallen to 31 years from 37 years in 2005. “The age group of people most at risk of HIV is getting younger. There is a real and urgent need to educate a new generation of young people, and

young gay and bisexual men in particular, about HIV and the importance of knowing your HIV status” continued Brady. GLEN are to launch Ireland’s first national free rapid HIV testing programme in the new year. The testing is to be community based, and provided in a variety of non-clinical venues in Dublin, Cork and Limerick. The funding for the project was announced by Minister Leo Varadkar at the recent launch of Ireland’s first National Sexual Health Strategy. “The new rapid HIV testing pilot is an exciting and innovative new approach to getting more people to know their HIV status. If people have HIV then the earlier they become aware of their status the better it will be for their long term health outcomes. In addition, most HIV is transmitted by people who are unaware that they have HIV, so

early diagnosis can further reduce onward transmission ratesâ&#x20AC;?.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;HIV testing needs to be provided in innovative ways to increase testing rates. People do not necessarily look forward to getting a HIV test and testing therefore needs to be convenient, non-judgemental and provided how, when and where is most appropriate for the people we are encouraging to test.â&#x20AC;? Brady concluded. (eile.ie 1 December 2015)

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India: Finance Minister Says Anti-gay Laws Should Be Reexamined In India, New Delhi-born Union Finance Minister, Arun Jaitley, has stated that ‘conservative’ and outdated laws against gay relationships should be reexamined by the Supreme Court.

Nov) said that the Supreme Court’s 2013 judgment, which over-ruled a previous High Court ruling that it was unconstitutional to regulate consensual sex between adults, was one that “needed to be reconsidered”, as there were “millions of people involved in this”.

“Jurisprudence world-over is evolving, I think the judgment was not correct, and probably at some stage, they may have to re-consider”

At the moment, the anti-gay laws mean that LGBT people can face imprisonment if having gay consensual sex, and discrimination, harassment he said. and condemnation are all part of the daily threat if a Although the statement person is found to be in a was welcomed by activists, gay relationship. some feel that Mr Jaitley should use his influence Mr Jaitley, speaking at on his fellow politicians in the Times LitFest in New the Hindu BJP (Bharatiya Delhi on Saturday last (28

76 EILE Magazine

Janata Party) government to overturn the legislation, section 377 of the Indian Penal Code of 1860, which institutionalised discrimination against the LGBT community. A challenge to its own 2013 ruling has now been agreed to by the Supreme Court, but as yet no date has been set for the hearing. -MKB (eile.ie 1 December 2015)

Arun Jaitley Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finance Minister

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PrEP To Be Available In France From 2016

On Monday 23 November, the French Minister of Health, Marisol Touraine, announced that PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis) will be available in France from 2016. France will become only the second country, after the USA, to authorise access to PrEP. The treatment will be covered by social security. Currently, PrEP is unavailable to most people in Europe, apart from those involved in clinical trials or individuals taking the medication informally, without the advice of a doctor. HIV prevalence globally is estimated to be 19 times higher among gay men and other MSM, than among the rest of the population. Similarly trans women 78 EILE Magazine

French Minister for Health, Marisol Touraine

would be up to 49 times more likely to acquire HIV. According to the European MSM Internet Survey, considered the most reliable source of information, across Europe 8% of gay men and other MSM report themselves to be living with HIV, but with big geographic and age variations. In countries like France and the UK, one in four is reported to be living with HIV, when they reach the age of 45. In the central and eastern part of the EU, the prevalence of HIV is low, but has increased fourfold since 2006. PrEP means the use of anti-retroviral medicines (ARVs) by HIV-negative people before carrying out an action that could put them at risk of HIV transmission (such as injecting drugs or having unprotected intercourse).

LGBT organisation, ILGAEurope, believe the right to health implies that everyone has access to comprehensive sex and relationship education, is informed of the various options they can be offered in an HIV prevention strategy and is aware of the different risks associated with various practices. This means that PrEP should be made available to all who decide to use it, provided that it is offered as one element among a combination of preventive tools. Health systems across Europe should provide LGBTI users with safe, inclusive and patientcentred environments if they want them to be part of the response to the spread of HIV. ILGA feel that in the fight against HIV infection, Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a vital tool when properly administered and monitored. (eile.ie 30 November 2015)

Uganda: Restrictive NGO Bill Passed On the eve of Pope Francis’ arrival in Uganda, Ugandan MPs passed a controversial bill on Thursday last, handing the authorities sweeping powers to supervise, approve, inspect and dissolve NGOs in a move which could see rights activists jailed for documenting abuses.Rights groups say the move is likely to “strangle” criticism of the government, according to AFP. Rights groups are concerned that the language of the bill is vague, and could lead to imprisonment for NGO workers for unspecified transgressions of the law. Ugandan Chief Whip, Ruth Nankabirwa, told reporters

that the bill was passed unanimously, after the vote at a late night sitting on Thursday. It was passed hours before the Pope was to fly in from Kenya, where he has spoken out against poverty, hoarding resources, and corruption. Nicholas Opiyo, an activist from the Chapter Four group, said that the law “strikes at the heart of civic forms of organising, restricts civic space and association rights”. He also said that the bill could refuse NGOs registration by hiding behind clauses which cite ‘public interest’. However, Nankabirwa disagreed with this and said the bill is there to help NGOs work in a better environment, as the government appreciates the work these organisations do.

He stated: “The bill empowers the NGOs as opposed to curtailing their operation”. The bill does not lead to confidence among activists, however, as it contains phrases such as “[the] rapid growth of NGOs has led to subversive methods of work and activities” which “undermine accountability and transparency in the sector”. The bill also empowers the government to dissolve an NGO if it feels it is in the public interest to do so. Uganda has only recently overturned punitive anti-gay legislation on a technicality. -MKB (eile.ie 29 December 2015)

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ILGA Europe Welcomes Cyprus Vote On Civil Partnerships The Cypriot parliament has voted in favour of the Civil Partnership Bill, meaning that same-sex couples in Cyprus will be legally recognised for the first time. The legislation, which has generated lots of debate nationally, will offer couples the same rights as civil marriage. However, joint adoption rights are not included as part of the civil union law. 39 members of parliament voted in favour of the bill, 12 against and three members abstained. ILGA-Europe are very pleased that the bill has finally been approved. They have congratulated all the civil society groups, political leaders and allies involved in this lengthy campaign, for their persistence and dedication

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to equality.

“Same-sex couples and their families are just as deserving of protection as their heterosexual friends and neighbours. This is not about giving one group ‘special rights’ but about recognising the wonderful diversity of families that live in Europe,” said ILGA-Europe Executive Director, Evelyne Paradis. Thursday’s vote (26 Nov) marks the end of a long period of public discussion in Cyprus; civil partnership recognition was first promised in 2013 with the current bill approved by the current government in May 2015. This was closely followed by the European Court of Human Rights’ unambiguous judgment in Oliari vs Italy, which stated that Italy’s failure to provide any form of

legal recognition for same-sex couples violated Article 8 of the European Convention of Human Rights. The LGBTI community, including well-known activist Alecos Modinos, had hoped that Cypriot parliamentarians would pass the Civil Partnership Bill promptly. However, arguments over the bill’s content delayed the final plenary vote from its original summer date until 26 November. (eile.ie 30 November 2015)

Austria: LGBT Pedestrian Lights Removed By Right-Wing Councillor

Traffic lights in Linz in Austria, which were put up to promote inclusion, and were funded by private donations, have now been taken down by a rightwing councillor, Markus Hein, who is a member of the Freedom Party (FPÖ). His party had also lodged a criminal complaint against the councillor who had organised the lights. Mr Hein is said to have been against the measure from the beginning, and feels that the lights are completely unnecessary as gay rights are already well-established. He is also the new person

responsible for traffic issues, and so it is now within his power to remove the lights, which were originally an initiative taken on by Vienna at the time of the Eurovision Song Contest, followed by Salzburg and Linz.

had lodged a criminal complaint last May against the Vienna councillor who had organised the lights, Maria Vassilakou. -MKB (eile.ie 8 December 2015)

Mr Hein also stated that traffic lights should not be “misused to impart advice on how to live your life”. However, Green party member Severin Mayr called the action “shameful”, and said the move meant that while others were promoting openness, the Linz council had put things “in reverse”. According to TheLocal. at, Mr Hein’s party

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US Relaxes Gay Blood Ban But With A Year’s Abstinence In the same year that US researchers discovered the existence of HIV, a blood ban was introduced in the States that prohibited gay men from donating blood. 1983 was that year, over thirty years ago, and the blood ban stayed in place until yesterday, 21 December, 2015.

man for 12 months. The recommendation was made over a year ago by advisors to the Department of Health & Human Services, and now the Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Blood and Tissue Safety and Availability have voted 16-2 to implement the recommendation.

if they have abstained from sex with another

led by Clive R. Seed, have found that there is no

significant increased risk of transfusion-transmitted HIV subsequent to a 12month deferral period for MSM. The team concluded:

“We found no evidence that the implementation of the 12-month deferral for Because there was little male-to-male sex known about HIV back then, the ban appeared resulted in an to be justified. However, increased recipient now almost all blood has risk for HIV in to tested for HIV and Australia. The risk others illnesses before of noncompliance being used, and there is to the revised a nucleic acid test which deferral rather can diagnose HIV within Now the FDA (Food & weeks of being exposed to than its duration Drug Administration) the virus. appears to be the have announced that a most important policy has been put in In the journal, modifier of overall place whereby gay men Transfusion, Vol. 50, Issue risk”. can donate blood, but only 12, an Australian team,

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Many medical

organisations in the US had put pressure on the FDA to change their blood donation policy for gay and bi men. These included the American Red Cross, Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blood Centres, the American Medical Association, and the American Association of Blood Banks. Advocates argue that the yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ban is still discriminatory, to, for instance, gay men who are in a monogamous relationship, have no high risk behaviour, and after testing have shown no evidence of HIV. -MKB (eile.ie 22 December 2015)

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Activist Maurice Tomlinson

Jamaica Maurice Tomlinson Challenges Jamaica’s Anti-gay Laws The Jamaican gay rights activist and attorney, Maurice Tomlinson, has challenged Jamaica’s anti-gay laws. He has filed a claim with the Supreme Court of Judicature, holding that the laws are unconstitutional. The challenge is being supported by the Canadian HIV/AIDS legal network, and also AIDS-Free World, and details are to be released at a press conference today. It will outline the way the law, Offences Against The Person Act 1864, violates a person’s constitutional rights. The law criminalises consensual sex between men. Recent additions to the law make it mandatory for registration, 84 EILE Magazine

monitoring and additional penalties as the person is regarded as a ‘sex offender’. Tomlinson stated: “The law is a gross violation of my human rights and those of all LGBT people in my country. It directly infringes numerous rights guaranteed by Jamaica’s Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms, and also fuels horrific violence”. He said that the laws “essentially render me an unapprehended criminal” and that the criminalisation and marginalisation of gay men drove them underground, away from HIV treatments and services. The Caribbean has the second highest HIV rate in the world, second only to sub-Saharan

Africa. UNAIDS says that homophobia is a contributing factor to the statistics, and urges that anti-gay laws be abolished, as these lead to discrimination, violence and stigma for the LGBT community. Lawyers hope that the landmark case will have a positive effect across the region, including advancing universal human rights and public health. Tomlinson married his partner, Tom Decker, in Canada in 2011, having met at an ILGA conference in 2010. He had been previously married to a female friend in 1999, and has one son from that marriage. -MKB (eile.ie 10 December 2015)

NBA Referee Bill Kennedy

US - Bill Kennedy NBA Referee Comes Out As Gay Yahoo Sports has reported that NBA referee, Bill Kennedy, has disclosed that he is gay. On Sunday night (13 Dec) he told Yahoo Sports: “I am proud to be an NBA referee and I am proud to be a man. I am following in the footsteps of others who have self-identified in the hopes that will send a message to young men and women in sports that you must allow no-one to make you feel ashamed of who you are”. This announcement came only days after Kennedy had been subjected to homophobic slurs from Sacramento Kings guard, Rajon Rondo, whom the NBA has since suspended. On 3rd

December, Rondo had been ejected in the third quarter of a game between his present team, Sacramento Kings, and his former team, the Boston Celtics, when he had at first been issued with a technical foul. When he was issued with a second foul and ejected, he approached Kennedy and hurled homophobic abuse at him. The NBA suspended Rondo for one game, citing “directing a derogatory and offensive term towards a game official, and not leaving the court in a timely manner”. Referee, Ben Taylor, has supported Kennedy’s side of the story. Sacramento Kings’ General Manager, Vlade Divac also agreed that Rondo “said something that’s unacceptable”. He also apologised to Kennedy on behalf of the team.

denied to officials that he had made the homophobic remarks, has stated on twitter: “My actions during the game were out of frustration and emotion, period” and then “They absolutely do not reflect my feelings toward the LGBT community. I did not mean to offend or disrespect anyone”. Many in the sports world, like Sean Newell of Vice Sports, see this as a non-apology, similar to “sorry if you were offended”. Kennedy, who has been a referee for 18 years, gave his statement to reporter, Adrian Wojnarowski, of Yahoo. -MKB (eile.ie 15 December 2015)

However, Rondo, who at first EILE Magazine 85

US Montgomery Gay Man Found Dead Near Burnt Truck Marc Pourner

A 28 year-old gay man, Marc Pourner, was found dead beside his burnt-out truck on Saturday last (14 November) in a heavily-wooded area of Montgomery County in America, near Firetower Road and FM 1485, about 20 miles east of The Woodlands.

night. Marc had left his home on Thursday night after what was described as a ‘disturbing’ phone call. Authorities are said to have received a tip from a ‘person of interest’ about the location of the body.

The body was found just off the path, near his own burnt-out truck, a GMC Sonoma, which had been willed to him by his grand-father two years ago.

However, by Monday afternoon, no suspect information had been released, and no arrests had been made, according to police spokesman, Lt. Brady Fitzgerald.

Marc had been reported missing on Thursday, and the police found the body two days later. His father had identified the body about 9pm on Saturday 86 EILE Magazine

Investigators told TV station KTRK that Pourner may have been restrained and his truck set on fire. His family told the station that the crime may have been a hate crime because Marc Pourner was gay.

Lt. Fitzgerald said that there was no evidence that Marc had been robbed, but where they found his body would mean it had been put there deliberately. He stated:

“We are still looking into the case. If he was murdered in reference to him being gay, it would be a hate crime and that’s the way it would be investigated if that was a motive”. The Montgomery Sheriff’s Office is appealing for anyone with information on the crime to come forward. A ‘GOFUNDME‘ account has been set up to raise $350 to help the family with funeral expenses, but so far, only $150 has been raised. A candlelight vigil for Marc is to be held tonight, Wednesday, at a field near to Caney Creek Apostolic Tabernacle on FM1485, his father said. -MKB (18 November 2015)

Australia Hodgman Sends Message To Canberra That Tasmanians Want Marriage Equality Marriage Equality advocates have hailed Wednesday night’s overwhelming vote for marriage equality in the Tasmanian Parliament, saying it sends a strong message to federal MPs to support the reform.

courage and leadership by voting for the marriage equality motion.”

A Greens motion was passed 15 votes to 9 with the support of Liberal Premier, Will Hodgman, and almost half of his Liberal colleagues.

“The fact the Tasmanian Liberals had a free vote on marriage equality is a reminder to their federal Liberal colleagues that free votes are a foundational Liberal principle, and that they should do the same when voting on marriage equality legislation.”

Australian Marriage Equality national director and 2015 Tasmanian of the Year, Rodney Croome, said: “I am very proud of the Tasmanian Parliament for sending a strong message to Canberra that it’s time for marriage equality and a strong message to the nation that Tasmania is an inclusive society.” “I applaud Will Hodgman, his deputy, Jeremy Rockliff, and all those Liberals who have shown

“I hope those Tasmanian federal members who are yet to declare their support for marriage quality heed the Tasmanian Parliament and take the message to Canberra that Tasmanians want marriage equality.”

Mr Croome said Will Hodgman is the only current Liberal Premier who supports marriage equality, and there is more support among Tasmanian Liberal state MPs than in any other Liberal caucus in Australia. “There is more support for marriage equality in the Tasmanian Parliament

Tasmanian Premier Will Hodgman

under the current Liberal Government than there was under the previous Labor/Green Government when a similar motion was passed 14 votes to 10, showing that the arc of history is bending to marriage equality.” “I pay tribute to all those Tasmanians from all walks of life – couples, parents, business people, farmers, sports people and people of faith – who have patiently spoken out in support of marriage equality.” “Parliament’s support for marriage equality is your victory and your vindication.” Mr Croome welcomed a Liberal Party amendment to the motion affirming a free and respectful debate on marriage equality. “Everyone should feel free to express their views on marriage equality in a way which respects the convictions and feelings of others.” (eile.ie 20 November 2015)

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