EILE
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Magazine V 5 Issue 7 - February 2018
Payson Lewis Vermillion Road
As The Sun Rises LGBT-themed film
Inside:
Travel | Film | Fashion |Health | News
EILE Magazine | Who’s Who
Contributors
M. Butler M. Butler is a writer and editor, with a keen interest in human rights, and has studied philosophy and psychology
Scott De Buitléir Scott is founder and Editor-at-Large of EILE Magazine. He is also an author and poet from Dublin but now based in Cork
Lisa Reynolds Originally from Co. Meath, Lisa is a fashion industry student, now living in Bray, Co Wicklow, with a great interest in media and celebrity
Brian Rochford Brian has studied health, exercise, and nutrition, with a special interest in controlling pain in rheumatism and arthritis Brian Rochford also writes on fashion column this month
Frances Winston Frances Winston is EILE’s resident film buff, and has contributed to many other publications, such as The Irish Independent and Irish Tatler
EILE Magazine
EILE Magazine | Welcome
Highlights February 2018 Upcoming LGBT Film - P.14 We have news of an upcoming LGBT themed film of the murder/mystery genre, As The Sun Rises
Volume 5, Issue 7 Editor-at-Large: Scott De Buitléir Editor: MKB
Arrival - P.22
Contributors: M. Butler, Scott De Buitléir, MKB, Lisa Reynolds, Brian Rochford, Frances Winston
Lisa Reynolds reviews this gay themed animated short by Alex Myung
Photographers: James Bianchi, La Famos
Health - P.36
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) or photo(s). Any queries can be made to hello@eile.ie
Brian Rochford tells about Osteoporosis and how to prevent it
Special Thanks to MKB for all her hard work, dedication and support.
Music - Pps. 6,10,and 28
Web: http://eile.ie
Our music section includes US based Payson Lewis and Vermillion Road, and a review of a retro album from Billie Holiday
Contact: hello@eile.ie Twitter: @EILEMagazine Facebook: http://fb.com/eilemagazine
Fashion - P.18 Brian Rochford writes on men’s Spring fashion this month
Note: All opinions expressed in this issue are the writers’ own.
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…plus film reviews, news, travel, and much more! EILE Magazine
EILE Magazine | Editor’s Letter
Contents 6-
Vermillion Road
10 -
Payson Lewis
14 -
As The Sun Rises
18 -
Men’s Fashion
22 -
Arrival
24 -
Béar Féile
28 -
Billie Holiday
30-
IDGTF News
34 -
Save A Train
36 -
Health-Osteoporosis
38 -
Frances on Film
plus World LGBT News, Views, Arts, Entertainment etc
EILE February 2018 Edition! Welcome to the February 2018 issue of EILE Magazine In this edition, we have US-based Payson Lewis and Vermillion Road as our musical guests, and a bit of retro with a review of one of Billie Holiday’s albums. We have news of an LGBT-themed film called As The Sun Rises coming up in 2018, by writer director James Postlethwaite, while Lisa Reynolds reviews an LGBT-themed animated short called Arrival. Frances Winston reviews the latest big movies, Brian Rochford writes on men’s fashion for Spring (if it ever arrives!), our Travel section talks about the benefits of using trains rather than planes, and health is all about Osteoporosis. It’s also an exciting time for the LGBT community, as Béar Féile is coming up in March, and the IDGTF 2018 is warming up with a call for volunteers. Galway’s Club GASS also have two great club nights coming up in March, one on Good Friday! With all of that, and a lot more news, views and entertainment on offer, we hope you enjoy this February 2018 issue of EILE Magazine!
Scott De Buitléir Founder / Editor-at-Large
EILE Magazine EILE Magazine
See our film reviews by Frances Winston
EILE Magazine
Vermi Roa
Alternative pop/rock/indie band, Verm new single, Only One, which sees the ba with a more rhythmic electronic pop-roc band is made up of Will Robison on voc Hileman on drums, and  EILE Magazine
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Image: LaFamos
million Road, have just released their and mixing their individual rock style ck vibe. The high-energy, Denver-based, cals, Hunter Heurich on guitar, Logan d bassist Gil Leyva –>> EILE Magazine
This month, we catch up with Denver-based alternative pop/rock/indie band, Vermillion Road, who have recently released their new single, Only One. This track sees an exciting new development for the band, evolving from rock into a more electronic pop-rock sound. The band was started by songwriters, Will Robison and Hunter Heurich, who came together in their early teens, and have been together since. Their performances are marked by high-energy and audience engagement, which is helped in no small way by their emotive lyrics. Seeking inspiration from the music scene in cities like LA, Seattle and Denver, this duo nevertheless developed their own unique sound, and cite among their influences bands such as Imagine Dragons, OneRepublic, and Young the Giant. With Hunter on guitar and Will on vocals, they soon drew the attention of drummer Logan Hileman and bassist Gil Leyva,
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who completed the lineup for this young energetic band. Vermillion Road really enjoy live performances, have gigged all around Denver, and have been in demand at festivals like the Coors Light Westword Music Showcase, and Vans Warped Tour. They have also been gaining more media attention, being featured on radio and television throughout the Southwest US, as well as being interviewed for magazines like RockWired and HighWire Daze. Not bad for a band that started as a young duo in their teens!
-MKB
Vermillion Road will be releasing their new EP later in 2018.
Vermillion Road f/b
Vermillion Road at Summit Music Hall f/b
You can catch up with Vermillion Road on: twitter.com/vermillionroad www.facebook.com/ vermillionroad https://itunes.apple. com/us/artist/vermillionroad/699659168 (Main Images courtesy of LaFamos) EILE Magazine
Payson Lewis Image: James Bianchi
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Payson Lewis Philadelphia-born, Los Angeles based indie/pop singersongwriter, Payson Lewis, is all set to release his new single, When Love Was Young One of EILE’s featured artists this month is pop/ indie singer-songwriter, Payson Lewis, an enegetic, multi-talented, all-round entertainer. Influenced by 8os and 90s music, Payson’s upcoming single (due to be released in March) is called When Love Was Young, and has been eagerly-awaited by his growing fanbase.
There are parts of this track, especially at the beginning, which remind me a little of Prefab Sprout, but one of the most distinctive things about it is sound of Payson’s smooth, controlled vocal over the beat-driven instrumental.
Payson, born and raised in Philadelphia (and saying he’s gluten-free since ‘96) soon migrated to Los Angeles to follow his love of music by studying at USC, where he also began to get acting roles. Payson is a tenor, and soon got a shot at NBC’s The Sing Off . This role not only served as a major gateway for Payson as a singer but also as an actor. His acting credits include episodes of How I Met Your Mother, Revenge, The People vs. OJ Simpson, Rules of Engagement in addition to various theatrical performances. Payson’s influences include Cold Play, Walk The Moon,The 1975, and Foster The People, and yet the sound he has developed is all his own. He has generated an impressive buzz, plus thousands of subscribers, through his popular YouTube channel. This channel showcases his talent by featuring his many cover videos. Many of these videos went viral, as did his cover of Taylor Swift’s Out of the Woods, and a creative mashup that combined Zayn Malik’s
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Pillowtalk with Rihanna, and Drake’s Work. These two covers drew the attention of many press outlets, including being featured by Perez Hilton.
Album Art for When Love Was Young
Payson’s talent is now being put wholly and entirely into music, and he is concentrating on his songwriting, which comes from his own experiences and influences. With such a wealth of experience behind him, it seems he and his tenor voice may turn that experience into the musical classics of the future. We can only wait and see!
-M. Butler
You can catch up with Payton at: www.facebook.com/ paysonlewismusic/ twitter.com/ paysonlewis?lang=en www.paysonlewis.com Main Images: James Bianchi @jamesbianchi
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Payson Lewis Image: F/b
Payson Lewis Image: F/b
Payson Lewis Image: James Bianchi
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It’s 2018. Manchester. Andy Daly is in a loveless relationship that’s approaching it’s tenth anniversary with partner, Emma. They first sparked a romance at Andy’s 17th birthday party, and haven’t looked back since, or have they? Andy has known he was gay from a very early age, and has spent a chunk of his life masking his emotions and living a lie. One night out, whilst on a dinner date with his partner, Emma, a chance meeting changes his life. He meets Sam, an openly gay man who instantly sets eyes on him. He writes his number on the bottom of their bill, which sparks Andy’s curiosity. Finally, they meet, and Sam urges Andy to be honest about his sexuality to the people he loves the most. Simple advice however, soon turns into an affair that ignites with spectacular passion. Through the trials and tribulations of a man who’s trying to live two lives, cracks start to appear, until, one night, a chain of events lead to a terrible death, two arrests and two people in the dock. What started as harmless fun leads to a gripping court case, with an unimaginable conclusion...
Writer/Director James Poslethwaite
As The Sun Rises is a new LGBT-themed film from WRITER / DIRECTOR James Postlethwaite, due out in late 2018. James is from Manchester and Nottingham. He got into the industry at the tender age of 16, and has since gone on to train and work on some of Britain’s most prestigious and well-known programmes, such as Coronation Street, The Graham Norton Show, and Popstar to Operastar. He has directed films and documentaries in the UK and Los Angeles, and has studied directing at Confetti and Raindance.>>>>
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THE CREW - Oli Braybrook Producer: Oli is a producer based in Nottingham and it’s the first time that he and James have worked together. Oli is most known for producing the films Lucidity and The Keys to It All, along with three episodes of the television pilot, Print. His wealth of knowledge and experience makes him a fantastic addition to the talented roster of crew working on As The Sun Rises. Laura Gallop Director of Photography: Laura is a Cornish cinematographer, who’s strong belief is that cinematography should compliment the story or idea, and should add to the project on an unconscious level rather than overpower it. Coming from a strong background in art, lighting, and photography, she pulls from her various creative backgrounds to influence her work as a cinematographer. Christian Smith Film 16 EILE Magazine
Composer: At 23, Hampshireborn pianist and composer, Christian Smith, already enjoys several credits to his name. His portfolio currently includes writing music for O2 adverts, in addition to scoring several films. Having amassed a large online following through music streaming site Soundcloud, his orchestral and cinematic music regularly charts in the Viral Piano Charts. THE CAST - Josh Harper: Andy The Last Hours of James Dean (ITV) The Archers (BBC) Run (Yellowmac Productions) Dunsinanne (RSC) Josh trained at the Birmingham School of Acting where he was nominated for the Spotlight Prize in 2013. Christopher Deakin: Sam Coat Hanger (Nick Williams Films) Monkey Boys (Met Film School) Brio (Buckley Productions) The Purple Daisy (MSA) Christopher trained at the University of Cumbria and the DNA Performance
Resource in Manchester. Rachel Teate: Emma Father Brown (BBC) Wolfblood (CBBC) Hollyoaks (Channel 4) Inspector George Gently (BBC) Rachel is nominated for Lead Actress at the International Filmmaker Festival of World Cinema 2018. Ben Whiteside: Josh Peter Pan (Sheffield Theatres) Da Vinci’s Assistant (Cokavi Theatre) Smile Days (Smile Theatre Society) Passage of My Youth (Janet Chun) Ben trained at the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain and is the Creative Director of Cloud Theatre. Courtenay Magrath: Sarah The Interrogation (London Film Studios) Subterranean Thoughts (Odds On) Weird Amnesia (Project? Hello) The Society (Made by Boone) Courtenay trained at the London School of Film, Media and Performance and at PACE University in New York.
Christina Sedgwick: Alice The Games Afoot (London Voice and Motion) Chance Encounter (Origi Media) Happy New Year (Pocket Shock Films) Christina trained at the Manchester School of Acting and also undertook a Anthony Meindl Workshop in Acting.
independent screenplays that require micro-budgets, most filmmakers including ourselves turn to crowdfunding.
Buckso Dhillon: Defence Barrister The Tunnel (Sky1) Coronation Street (ITV) Cucumber (Channel 4) Law and Order: UK (ITV) Buckso is currently filming a Hollywood blockbuster for a major US studio here in the UK.
Link: http://goo.gl/ 1YknCw
Adam Blaug: Defence Barrister T-Rex (BBC) Fimbles (Novel Entertainment) Animal Magic (BBC Bristol) Trouble at the Top (BBC) Adam studied at the world-famous Guildford School of Acting and has appeared in over 100 commercials. Theresa Godly: Prosecution Barrister Silk (BBC) Finding Fatimah (Icon Productions) The Bill (ITV) Grange Hill (BBC) Theresa studied at the Guildford School of Acting and is currently filming a BBC documentary in Kolkata, about her life. Tina Harris: Judge Happy Valley (BBC) Shameless (Channel 4) Cradle to Grave (BBC) Red Dwarf (BBC) Tina studied at the Art’s Educational School and is also a professional voiceover artist. How is the film funded? "Due to the severe lack of funding options for
Our crowdfunding pre-launch page with Indiegogo went live on the 28th January, and will run until the 7th March 2018.
On the 9th March, our main Indiegogo campaign will launch as we seek to raise a budget of £25,000 from the public. In return the public can get their hands on unique perks ranging from a simple shout-out on social media, to signed scripts, posters and tshirts. There’s even options to shadow our director for the day, be one of 12 Jury members or even come on board an Executive Producer. Subject to securing our budget, principal filming will begin on location in Nottingham and Manchester in June 2018.
perception of filmmaking being a ‘male-dominated’ industry". They invested back into the communities by hiring local, skilled crew... Last Tango in Halifax, Happy Valley, Broadchurch... All great locally produced drama away from the hub of London - yet they were 75% staffed with London crew. "We will hire all of our crew from the local area, investing back into the community". "We’re flying the flag with great pride for the ever-growing LGBT film scene, with hopes that we’ll be screening the oneoff drama at BFI’s prestigious Flare Festival in 2019 amongst other LGBT festivals, including the Iris Prize Festival and Manchester’s very own Queer Contact Festival 2019".
"And finally, we’re proud to say we’re proud backers of the ERA - Equal Representation for Actresses campaign. The campaign which is backed by actors such as Rebecca Front, Suranne Jones, and Nina Sosanya, was set up to However, just because we’re a persuade all theatre, media micro-budget indie production, outlets and broadcasters to doesn’t mean we can’t go some have a 50:50 gender balance way to changing issues within across their yearly content by the film industry and leaving 2020 - and we’re so pleased our mark". to say we’ve exceeded this criteria!" James also tells us he purposely wrote and cast We, at EILE, are looking strong female roles with an forward to seeing it later this overall 75% female cast figure. year! You can find out more about As The Sun Rises on "We also have a female Facebook at: director of photography, and intend to hire further female https://www.facebook. crew members to reverse the com/asthesunrisesuk/
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Springi
Brian Roch fashion fo milde
Now that Spring on the lookout fo as temperatures a are going to hav wardrobe.
Colours, styles, and text One colour that we may making its way into man choosing green, as there choose the right shade fo
It is a very versatile co fabulous in a stylish we
hĂŠrmes
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ing Forward!
hford writes about men’s or what should be the er weather ahead
is here (sort of) we should all be or the very best style-trends, and are, or should be, on the rise, you ve to make a few changes to your
tures will be different after a long dark Winter. y be seeing a lot of this Spring is green. It will be ny of the high-street stores, but be careful when e are many different tones. Take your time, and or your skin tone and personal style.
olour, and looks very good in a field-jacket, or ell-fitting bomber-jacket. You should also check
Daniel Hecther daks EILE Magazine 19
out the wide range of Spring/Summer suits - you can still look smart at work, and keep cool at the same time. Choose from a great selection of green shirts that look good with jeans or your favourite chinos. Now that the weather is (supposed to be) getting warmer, you will want to transition from heavier footwear to lighter, brighter, colours, textures, and style of shoe/trainer and lighter boots. Check out the range of neutral colours in trainers if you want to be ahead in fashion, they will not only keep you comfortable this Spring, but they will put the finishing touch to your new look. The selection of thinner sweaters and jumpers, available in so many styles and colours, can keep you looking fashionable and warm on those chilly spring mornings, and as you socialise in the evenings. The ever-popular denim jacket is also featured again, as it is so easy to layer on top of a white t-shirt or over a sweat-shirt, even layered over a dress-shirt it still looks good.
armani
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We will also be seeing the suede-effect in the shops this Spring, in the form of boots, shoes, and jackets. My favourite at present is faux-suede, as it so easy to wash and wear.
All in all, if the weather would just realise it’s Spring, and put away the arctic blasts, the latest high-street offerings will have you looking stylish, top to toe.
hugo
versace
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Arrival Lisa Reynolds reviews this LGBTQ-themed short animated film Arrival (2016) is a short 2D-animated film, written, directed, and animated by Alex Myung, and produced by Amy Benaroya. The film, which is just over 22 minutes in length, follows the story of a young LGBTQ couple, and is based on Myung’s experiences dating in New York City. Gorgeous visually, the short film has no dialogue, but it’s so wonderfully easy to follow the story, regardless of the lack of dialogue. Arrival tells the story of a young man who grows up in the countryside, and has a very close relationship with his mother. When he grows up, he goes to live in the city, and he and his mother correspond with each other by sending pictures of their lives. However, when he falls in love with a man, he doesn’t feel comfortable sending her the photograph of the two of them together. A wonderful piece about LGBTQ issues, coming of age, going out into the world, falling in love, and the relationship between mother and son. The title Arrival is also very apt, as you feel like the central character is on a very important journey in his life, and is at a crossroads of whether he will or won’t feel content within himself, and with his outward circumstances. The film has beautiful music, composed by Upright T-Rex (Ross Wariner and Cody Uhler) which really adds so much to the story. Arrival was funded through Kickstarter, with $21,836 raised by 215 backers. It is such a professional-looking film, which the Arrival team of four people in their late 20s, Myung, Benaroya, Wariner, and Uhler, have created, and is very emotive, drawing you in from start to finish. The team is dedicated to giving voice to LGBTQ issues, and this is their first film, so I’m looking forward to what they do in the future, because this is a stunning start. Great work also by voice actor, Nick Neon. A must-watch. Beautifully crafted. To watch Arrival go to: https://youtu.be/R47uiGLivP0
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Béar Féile 2018!
Mr Bear Ireland Eoin Dolan
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Ireland’s Bear festival, Béar Féile 2018, will be happening this year March 23rd to March 25th!
This will be a great weekend of fun, socialising, and entertainment for Bears and friends from all over the world. Dublin Bears have a great variety of entertainment arranged, including 5 DJs, a Trad Music session, Cabaret, A Bear Bus tour ( with a cabaret tour guide!! ), the wonderful local Synth-Pop Duo EDEN, and the Mr Bear Ireland Competition with Panti, featuring the amazing ABBAesque!. There’s even Bear Bingo in the George! It’s all about relaxing, getting to know guys from home and abroad, and bringing a warm, friendly atmosphere to the Dublin scene. They include all of the LGBT venues in the event, so guys get to see the best of the community over the weekend. For more information, visit the Béar Féile Facebook Events page: https://goo.gl/DbTLXx EILE Magazine 25
Mr Bear Ireland Eoin Dolan
Eden
Abbaesque
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Album Review
Blue Billie By Billie Holiday By Lisa Reynolds Blue Billie (2002) is a compilation album by Billie Holiday. It is a gorgeously listenable album, and once the listener puts it on, they’ll get lost in the emotive, genuine, mature vocals of a jazz-legend, whose talent is timeless. Added into this, the wonderful instrumentals are full of sophistication and excellent rhythm. A great, relaxing album that brings the listener back to a time when the tracks were recorded. The opening track is Gloomy Sunday (also known as the Hungarian Suicide Song) which Billie released in 1941. At the time, the BBC banned the song from been played, as they saw it as being bad for wartime morale, but that didn’t stop Gloomy Sunday from becoming one of Billie’s many, many classics. Very melancholic and deep, it is sad but very beautiful. Billie’s vocal is gorgeous, with so much emotion and depth. A really beautiful job. Next we move to Trav’lin’ All Alone (1937) which is a lot more upbeat compared to the opening track. The instrumentals have a real Charleston feel to them. Really catchy track. The next track is Body and Soul, which is a popular, classic, jazz ballad, originally performed by Gertrude Lawrence, which Billie sings beautifully with passion. 28 EILE Magazine
Following Body and Soul is Where Is the Sun? It is a track that feels very cinematic. You could imagine it being played over an old romantic film. Gorgeously understated and coherent. It flows beautifully along from section to section. The fifth track is You Let Me Down, which was recorded in 1936. The instrumentals are brilliant, and make you feel like you’re in a jazz club. Billie’s vocal is subtly dramatic and edgy. It’s one of my favourite tracks from the compilation album. Next is God Bless the Child, which was recorded in 1941. In 1976, the song was honoured with the Grammy Hall of Fame Award. Its origins lie in an argument Billie had with her mother over money, in which her mother said: “God bless the child that’s got his own” which led to a wonderful song being created. Stunningly sophisticated, Billie’s vocal is just glorious. There’s an amazing deep, mature sound to her vocal on this track in particular. Billie’s Blues is next, and you can imagine it being played in jazz clubs and dance halls at the time. It has a great beat to it, very upbeat instrumentals and very catchy. With the next track, I Cover the Waterfront, we reach the halfway point of the album. It is another one of my favourite tracks. It’s very understated and romantic. As Billie sings, the listener can see a picture of the scene being painted in front of them - a beautiful end to the first half of the album.
Billy Holiday
Starting the second half off is Moanin’ Low, which was recorded in 1937, and starts instrumentally before Billie begins singing. Her vocal is very storytelling on this track, and again a picture of the scene is painted vividly. The next track is Am I Blue, which is another great track from the album. It has such a classic jazz feel, and Billie’s vocal is effortlessly beautiful. The break to the instrumentals is also wonderful and brilliantly timed. Next up is Loveless Love, which has an excellent instrumental solo, and is wonderfully crafted. It is followed by Night and Day. Billie does a brilliant job on this Cole Porter classic. Her vocal is full of depth and romance, and it’s a stunning job of such a well-known song. Following Night and Day is St. Louis Blues, where Billie’s vocal is very storytelling on the track, and once again, I could see the story painted in front of me as I was listening.
Next is Why Was I Born? Another gorgeously crafted tune with excellent instrumentals, full of rhythm and very polished. Next up is another one of my favourite tracks on the album, Ghost of Yesterday. It’s very textured, and Billie’s vocal is very heartfelt. The album’s closing track is Long Time Blues, which is a very well-put-together track, with an excellent instrumental break. The instrumentals on this track are brilliant, and Billie’s vocal is full of depth. A perfect closing track to a perfect album. Stunning from start to finish. A must listen from a jazz legend, who was at the top of her game with good reason. To listen to Blue Billie by Billie Holiday go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=25WnNev zlag&t=375s EILE Magazine 29
IDGTF 2018’s Annual Table Quiz, and Seeking Volunteers! Join the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival 2018 for a Year of Celebration-Starting with their Annual Table Quiz, and consider volunteering! The 2018 Dublin Gay Theatre Festival is on its way – from May 7th to 20th.
(hopefully!) win one of the great prizes on offer. €40 for a table of 4. You can reserve a table by emailing your details to quiz@gaytheatre.ie Have additional prizes to add to their list? Do you have any questions? They want to hear from you! Email them at quiz@gaytheatre.ie. As an entirely voluntary, not-forprofit organisation, the IDGTF really appreciate your support, so that they can continue to celebrate LGBTQ identity and stories through theatre.
This is a special year of celebration for the festival, marking both the 15th birthday of IDGTF, and 25 years since the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland. Keep watching www.gaytheatre.ie Seeking Volunteers and Facebook for more details. Want to see great shows, make new friends, join in at social events or learn valuable new skills? IDGTF are Table Quiz Wednesday now recruiting volunteers for Festival March 7th @ 8pm 2018. IDGTF are hosting their annual If you are interested in volunteering, fundraising Table Quiz in Street 66, please contact them at volunteers@ Parliament Street on Thursday March gaytheatre.ie 1st from 8pm. Whatever your skills, background, You are invited to come along, support or interests, they have exciting the Festival and performers and opportunities for you!
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Wednesday March 7th
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Club GASS Galwa Two Great Dates For March! Club GASS have 2 great nights coming up in March, one on March 9th and one on Good Friday, yes you heard that right! First there is the Club GASS club night on March 9th, hosted by the always enchanting Miss Kiki St Clair, with special guests, and DJs on the night are Pantibar’s amazing Bunny & Dizzy. Sesh in the City is happening on Good Friday, March 30th, also hosted by the delectable Miss Kiki St Clair, and featuring the delicious and delightful Regina George, Dylatrix, Ellis Dee and Sasha Synthetic, and DJ Ruth will be supplying some great music. And don’t forget, both great nights are at the Róisín Dubh, Dominick Street, Galway! 32 EILE Magazine
ay s
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Travel
Save a train There are multiple modes of transport available today for travelling around Europe, but rail and air travel are definitely among the most popular. However, which mode of transport is best? At Save a Train, we are of course biased, and think that train travel is by far the superior type of transportation! Read on below to find out why. Eco- friendly Air travel is now recognised as the fastest-growing contributor to global warming. Avoiding planes when there are easy alternatives to travel is possibly the biggest single thing that any individual can do to cut their carbon footprint. Air pollution is reduced dramatically by taking the train over the plane. In most European countries, train networks are extensive and services are frequent, so you can be eco- friendly without any sacrifice.
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Flexibility Travelling by plane typically means you must secure your seat weeks, or even months, in advance to get a reasonable fare. Once you have secured your seat, it is not easy to change your flights without having to pay a big fee. Though some trains require you to make seat reservations in advance, there is a lot more flexibility, particularly if you need to change the time you wish to travel. Now with Save A Train even if your ticket’s price drops, they will let you know and help you exchange your ticket at a cheaper price! No fuss Imagine taking a journey and not having to arrive two hours early, wait in a long security line, measure out your liquids and gels, or take off your shoes for inspection. Welcome to the world of train travel. When you travel by air, more time and safety precautions are needed. Travelling by rail typically means you can arrive 30 minutes ahead of time and walk straight to your platform without any hassle. Speed - faster door to door Air travel is known to be one of the fastest ways to reach your destination, however, this is only taking the flight itself into consideration. How far in advance of your flight do you have to arrive to cross the long check-in and security line? If you have checked in a bag you must wait to collect this when you arrive on the other side - this is all time - consuming. Unlike airports, at train stations there are no check-ins or security lines, so you do not have to be at the station hours before your voyage. Most major train stations are located right in the heart of the cities they serve. Mostly when you take the train, you arrive directly at your destination. However, taking a plane, you could spend hours getting to and from the airport. Cost-effective
increasingly attractive to budget-conscious travellers. Though taking a plane to your destination is still an effective way to reach your destination, there are extra costs that we typically neglect to take into account. When considering your mode of transportation, you must add in the extra cost of getting to and from the airport. This either involves the cost of fuel and parking, or the airport bus or taxi fare. None of which is cheap. Comfort Unless you have paid for business class, your space is usually restricted on an airplane seat. On a train, you can move more freely, and you will have more legroom around your seats. During your flight, you must wait for the seatbelt sign to turn off to move from your seat. However, on a train you move down the aisles, grabbing a bite or coffee in the snack carriage, and watching the world zip by. A scenic train ride can even be a holiday. Most European trains also offer free WiFi - somethihng which cannot be yet said for all airlines. Train travel also allows you to travel comfortably with your adored pet. Many pets are not suited to air travel due to health, age or breed. Passengers on European trains may take dogs, cats and other small animals with them and most of the time at no extra costs! Taking all these factors into consideration, it is easy to see how train travel is becoming increasingly predominant today. Planes are convenient to get you to countries miles away. However, if you are travelling around Europe or other areas with excellent rail transportation, train travel is the more efficient and comfortable mode of transport. To find the best train fares in Europe, visit Save A Train at www.saveatrain.com For more information, follow Save A Train on Facebook Instagram and Twitter
In the last decade, train travel has become
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Health
Osteoporosis Brian Rochford talks about this disease which affects bone mass, and what to do to strengthen the body against it
Many millions of people worldwide suffer from Osteoporosis. This disease has been called a silent killer, because you don’t feel your bones becoming more porous and fragile. People may have no symptoms until they experience a fracture. These breaks most often occur in the spine, hip, and wrist areas of the body. It has been estimated that millions of people are at risk due to low bone mass. In some cases, the bones can become so brittle that simply coughing or bending over can result in fracturing. Osteoporosis is commonly viewed a disease that only older people are likely to suffer from, however, most people experience some thinning of the bones or loss of bone mass as they mature. This disease is more frequent in post-menopausal women, but can be found in men from childhood up to any age. Remodelling is the term used to describe the process where the bones are repeatedly broken down, and are substituted with new strong bones. What happens as we get older is that more bone is been taken away, and less produced, this ultimately causes us to have thinner bones. From about the age of 40 onwards, the ratio of bone in our bodies declines. This process continues throughout the remainder of our adult lives. As stated, both men and women can develop Osteoporosis regardless of what age they are, but it is more prevalent in older women. Here are some reasons that can contribute to the risk of developing the disease: The thyroid gland over-producing the hormone known as thyroxine may cause bone loss, and may result in the development of Osteoporosis. Another factor is the excessive use of alcohol, and the habit of smoking tobacco. Living an inactive lifestyle, as in not getting enough exercise, will not help the bones stay strong, healthy, and dense. It has been noted that ethnicity can also
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play a part, as African-Americans are less likely to be at risk from the disease than Caucasians. Osteoporosis can be handed down from generation to generation. Another factor that may contribute is eating a diet that is very deficient in calcium which can cause your body to take calcium from your bones, causing them to become weak and vulnerable.
requirements. A diet rich in calcium is really important for strong, healthy bones, and a daily multi-vitamin helps you retain calcium. Regular exercise, especially for the older person, can help reduce the loss of bone mass. Strength training exercises, like the Squat, help to build strong bones and strong leg muscles, helping to improve upper and lower body strength, as well as improving Now for some good news on how you can help the hamstrings and the calve muscles. The lessen the risk of developing this disease. Dumbbell Row also helps to strengthen the middle back, and improves overall strength. Start by eating a balanced diet. This is important not just for healthy bones, As always, it is important to consult your but for all your body’s health nutritional doctor before starting any exercise routine.
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Frances Winston on Movies Directed by Greta Gerwig – Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Tracy Letts, Lucas Hedges, Timothée Chalamet, Beanie Feldstein, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Lois Smith The likelihood that you are unaware of this film is pretty slim, since it is gaining plaudits and awards left, right, and centre. I have to say I approached Lady Bird with trepidation, as I have never been Greta Gerwig’s biggest fan. I really don’t get all the hype around her. That said, she does prove herself a competent director here. However, the film follows the sort of quirky trajectory most of her work does, and I have to say not a lot really happens. Ronan plays the self-anointed ‘Lady Bird’, which she has decided is preferable to her given name of Christine. She’s a high-school senior, bored by small town life, and longing to get into an Ivy League college in a more cultured city. Constantly locking horns with her mother over the family’s financial struggles and status (they are literally from the wrong side of the tracks) she seeks solace hanging with the
‘cool kids’, to the detriment of her long-term friendships. But her lies about her life and background eventually catch up with her, and she is forced to confront just who she really is. This is the kind of film where nothing really happens, but instead, we get an insight into the human condition. While this might make for fantastic performances, it doesn’t always make for very exciting viewing. That said, the writing is excellent, and doesn’t sound as contrived as movie dialogue can when it attempts to sound like ‘real people’. Gerwig explores the idea of identity, our connections to our family and home, and the hidden secrets that shape our lives without our knowing. With such complex themes, the actors have plenty to work with, and are thoroughly believable in their roles. For all the praise being heaped on Saoirse, I felt Beanie Feldstein, as her best friend, Julie, deserved to get some plaudits also. Her performance is truly wonderful.
relatable moments, after all, who didn’t suffer teen angst or try to reinvent themselves at some point. However, I feel at this stage it is a victim of its own hype and success, and after so much pre-publicity and praise, it is difficult to look at it objectively. Personally, I found Lady Bird to be a sweet coming-of-age drama. I did find it dragged somewhat in places, but it was always engaging, and had one or two lovely twists, just to keep things interesting. Whether or not you, the reader, like it, will probably depend on how influenced you are by what you’ve read about it either way.
In Cinemas Now!
Gerwig is a far better director than I’ve ever found her as an actor. Lady Bird looks lovely, and no doubt her experience in front of the camera helped her guide the on-screen action. And yes, Lady Bird is a lovely movie that has many EILE Magazine 39
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Frances Winston on Movies continued...
Directed by: Ryan Coogler – Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, Andy Serkis Fans of the Marvel franchises have already met the Black Panther in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War. It’s not necessary to have seen that to enjoy this, but since Black Panther picks up more or less right afterwards, it could be a useful exercise to bring you up to speed as to where we stand in the Marvelverse timeline. That aside, Black Panther works as a standalone movie, and you don’t even really need any prior knowledge of Marvel, or the character, to make sense of it. I won’t go into the events of Civil War, other than to say that our protagonist, T’Challa (Boseman) is now king of Wakanda, following the death of his father in that movie. Wakanda is an African Kingdom that is rich in Vibranium – the most precious and valuable resource on the planet – that can heal illness and be used to develop astonishing technologies.
While the outside world considers them a poor African nation, in reality they are a wealthy and technologically advanced state, with weapons’ tech far beyond what is available in the western world. Obviously, when your country houses something that valuable, others want it, and Wakanda is no exception, as a blast from T’Challa’s family’s past appears intent on stealing the throne, and distributing Vibranium, to the outside world. Although still finding his feet as King T’Challa, as his alter ego the Black Panther must defend his family’s legacy, and stop the Vibranium getting into the wrong hands. This may sound like your standard run-of-the-mill superhero movie, but Black Panther really is so much more than that. It is rare that I would say believe the hype, but in this case, it’s true. Although we only met the titular character once before, and none of the other characters prior to this, they are some of the most wellrounded Marvel have ever committed to screen. This is no doubt helped by the fantastic cast, who all do a wonderful job. Black Panther manages to deal with complex issues
and themes, such as race relations, family politics, and even the responsibility (or not) of wealthy countries to poorer more oppressed lands, however, it never feels like these are being shoved down your throat. As well as the multi-layered story and characters, Black Panther is also a total visual delight. In fact, I would go so far as to say that it is Marvel’s most colourful movie ever. It really draws on the wealth of diverse African influences to create a visual that is steeped in tradition, while embracing the future. The soundtrack is also spot-on, and completely infectious. In terms of action, Black Panther contains some of the best-thought-out setpieces I’ve ever seen in a Marvel movie. In fact, it is difficult to say anything bad about it, as it is so completely well-rounded. If I had one complaint, it is that Andy Serkis’ character is ridiculously OTT, even for a comic book adaptation. But the rest of Black Panther is such a fantastically entertaining ride, that this doesn’t seem to matter. Enormously enjoyable, Black Panther sets the bar pretty high for Marvel’s future offerings.
In Cinemas Now!
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Frances Winston on Movies continued...
Directed by: Richard Loncraine Starring: Imelda Staunton, Timothy Spall, Celia Imrie, Joanna Lumley, David Hayman, John Sessions, Josie Lawrence Even if I wrote nothing about this film, one look at the cast list would probably fill you with hope of being highly entertained. Some of the stalwarts of British comedy are here, and it’s fair to say it’s hard to find a previous disappointing performance amongst them. That’s not to say that they couldn’t be dragged down by a bad story. However, this tale of a woman rediscovering her joie de vie, with thanks to her bohemian sister after she discovers her husband is having an affair, has just enough twists and surprises to keep you engaged. Staunton plays the woman in question. A snob of the Hyacinth Bucket variety, who is forced to flee to her sister’s council flat (Imrie) when she discovers her husband’s shenanigans. Reluctant to get involved in any activity within the community, she eventually caves in, and finds herself part of a seniors’ dance class, realising that there is life outside the confines of her previously upper-class existence. While the story may be standard fare, this is far from pedestrian. It is peppered with enough one-liners and slapstick moments to bring a smile to the face of even the most hardened cynic. Staunton and Imrie riff off each other magnificently. It’s actually hard to believe they are not real-life sisters at times. They are ably supported by Spall, Lumley et al, who appear to have had a joyous time making this film. This has more warmth and humour in its little toe than the average rom-com, and it is great to see an older cast getting the chance to shine. While this isn’t going to set the world on fire, it is a wonderfully pleasant way to spend a couple of hours. You will run the emotional gamut, and find yourself really invested in these characters’ lives. Yes, it has some incredibly silly moments (including some 11th hour exposition from a character that really was somewhat unnecessary) but overall, this is a worthy addition to the annals of British Drama. It fairs warms the cockles, and will definitely leave you feeling warm and fuzzy.
In Cinemas February 23rd!
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Directed by: Craig Gillespie – Starring: Margot Robbie, Sebastian Stan, Allison Janney, Julianne Nicholson, Bobby Cannavale Even if you don’t remember the infamous hobbling of Winter Olymipic hopeful, Nancy Kerrigan, by her teammate, Tonya Harding, it is unlikely you are not familiar with the story. It has been parodied and referenced throughout pop-culture in just over two decades since. The incident ended Harding’s skating career, which had been punctuated with great highs and crushing lows, and turned her into one of the most recognisable anti-heroes of the last century. Having watched interviews with Harding, and seen footage of the attack, I have always found it hard to feel any sympathy for her. She comes across as completely hard-nosed and unrepentant. Therefore, it seemed a surprising choice of role for the beautiful, bubbly, and likeable, Margo Robbie, to undertake. And I have to admit that during the opening scenes I was questioning her wisdom. From the off, we learn that I,Tonya is based on interviews with Harding, her ex-husband Jeff Gillooly (Stan) and other involved parties. but they had all given very different
stories. Told through the medium of these interviews, intercut with scenes from her life, we learn the nitty-gritty of Tonya’s background, from the hardships and abuse of her early years, to the struggle to be the top competitive skater in the country, to her well-publicised and extremely ungracious fall from grace. Although Robbie probably starts playing her a little too early in the movie (she first takes over the role from younger actors as a teenage Tonya) she does a fantastic job in the role, and is welldeserving of all the plaudits that have been coming her way. She actually makes Harding likeable, and when she is banned from skating for life (not a spoiler since it’s a matter of public record) you really feel for her. The Harding portrayed here is of the ‘poor kid from the wrong side of the tracks trying to better herself’ variety. By contrast her lover, and later husband, Gillooly, is portrayed as manipulative, abusive and thoroughly unlikable, and her mother (brilliantly portrayed by Janney) is shrewish and unloving. Indeed, every character she encountered in her life appears to have done her wrong. Of course, I,Tonya is based on her recollections, so the truth is probably somewhere in the
middle. However, the conceit of using the interviews allows director, Gillespie, to portray the story in a totally tonguein-cheek way. Because he is not certain of all the facts, and there are such conflicting stories, the audience gets to make up their own minds about what really happened, making for a very engaging watch. I,Tonya really is a story from the ‘you couldn’t make it up’ school of writing, and part of its appeal is that it is so completely outrageous, but yet you know that it’s true (ish – remember these are the protagonists recollections). If I had one criticism, it’s that the Nancy Kerrigan incident feels a bit tossed aside. She was, after all, the victim of this heinous assault, but here she is almost like a bystander in what is partially her story. Overall, I,Tonya manages to be hilarious, without losing any of the emotional impact of Harding’s story. It really makes you think about the potential grime behind the glitz and glam that we see on the ice rink. You may not come out of I,Tonya any the wiser about the facts, but you will come out extremely entertained. In Cinemas February 24th!
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Thursday March 15 name of Galway underground An evening of otherworldly aural singer-songwriter, Aaron Coyne. delight He is well known to many as one half of electro/guitar band, Little Gem Records presents an Mirakil Whip, but through ethereal double bill : Yawning Chasm he explores a modern, ruminative, psychedelic Rita Braga / Yawning Chasm + folk-rock. To experience his Special Guests Live at Jigsaw music live is a genuine treat from another world, familiar yet The music of Portuguese distant. songstress, Rita Braga, simultaneously summons the https://yawningchasm. ghosts of Carmen Miranda and bandcamp.com/ synth pioneers, such as Delia Derbyshire and Bruce Haack. + Special Guests TBA Her world is one of colours, Thursday March 15 2018 exuding both the charm of a vintage cartoon character Doors 8pm merrily bouncing along, and the ominous melancholy of a lost Jigsaw Dublin 1 kitten. Tickets available here Having toured all around the world for the best part of a www.littlegem.ie decade, her shows, which are both performative and visual, will ​ make you feel like you’ve stepped Little Gem Records into a David Lynch movie from 18 Kildare Street which you may not return. Dublin 2 https://superbraguita.com/ Yawning Chasm is the stage 46 EILE Magazine
littlegemrecords@gmail.com http://www.littlegem.ie
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Design: Anthony Zagariko, exclusively for EILE Magazine
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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 49
Gate Theatre LOOK BACK IN ANGER by John Osborne Until 24 March Award-winning Irish theatre director, Annabelle Comyn, takes a fresh look at the explosive words of playwright, John Osborne, in the Gate Theatre’s new production of his 1950’s play, Look Back in Anger – a play which launched his career to international fame. This blistering new staging of Osborne’s 1950s international hit play, tackles themes of sex, class, religion, politics, the media, and the sense of a country stifled by an official establishment culture. The play focuses on the life and marital struggles of the play’s main character, Jimmy Porter, and wife Alison, while addressing the rise of the Right Wing. This new production brings this ‘groundbreaking for its time’ play bang up-todate, while also reminding us of how life has changed for the better in recent times.
Look Back In Anger by John Osborne Cast: Clare Dunne, Ian Toner, Vanessa Emme, Lloyd Cooney Directed by Annabelle Comyn Until 24th March, 2018 Saturday Matinees: 2.30pm Shows: Mon to Sat – 7.30pm Tickets: €25 – €38 For more information or to book tickets, go to: www.gatetheatre.ie
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FGG sponsors first-ever NFL ‘Inclusion Party’ on eve of Super Bowl LII in Minneapolis Returning to Minneapolis for the first time since the FGG Board held its mid-year meeting there in 2017, FGG CoPresident Sean Fitzgerald and former Co-President Kurt Dahl attended the inaugural Super Bowl Inclusion Party, hosted by National Football Alumnus and Gay Games Ambassador Esera Tuaolo. Held on 31 January, over 500 diverse community members gathered, and raised thousands of dollars for anti-bullying nonprofits and homeless youth shelters. Nonprofits which benefited included Esera Tuaolo’s non-profit HateIsWrong.org, PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, and Avenues For Homeless Youth. Presenters included football legends, television singers, Mayors and advocacy groups leaders. The event was sponsored in part by the Federation of Gay Games. Co-President Sean Fitzgerald had this reaction to the evening:
“It was amazing to attend the NFL Inclusion event in Minneapolis and see the amazing work Esera Tuaolo has done with his Hate Is Wrong campaign. Esera is one of our most visible Gay Games Ambassadors, and the Federation of Gay Games couldn’t be prouder of how he has created this amazing event during the massive build-up to the Super Bowl, arguably the biggest sporting event in the USA. It’s great to see yet another professional sports league embracing full equality, something that the Gay Games have stood for since 1982. I think it’s no coincidence that Esera named this event Inclusion, since that is one of the three founding principles of the Gay Games. The others are “Participation” and “Personal Best,” and these values will be on display later this year at Gay Games 10, taking place in Paris, France from August 4 – 12.” Over 6,600 have already registered and up to 15,000 are expected for the 36 sports and 15 cultural events. We hope to see many of you there.” To get information and tickets to Paris, France for Gay Games 10, go to: Paris2018.com
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Standard fees continue until 30 April 2018 (Please note: If you would like to donate to the Gay Games Scholarship Program, you could DOUBLE your impact, thanks to a major benefactor. The scholarship program was established to encourage financially-challenged participants, from underrepresented populations from around the world, to take
part in the Gay Games, with support from the Roy M. Coe Scholarship Fund. (The Roy M. Coe Scholarship Fund was endowed to the FGG in 1995). Since 1998, over 800 scholarship candidates have participated in the Gay Games). (eile.ie 18 February 2018)
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6 South Carolina Legislators Want SameSex Marriages to Be Called ‘Parody Marriages’ Sometimes legislators do something so discriminatory and full of hate that it’s hard to believe someone isn’t trying to pull your leg. But six Republican legislators in South Carolina last week introduced legislation that would define any marriage not between a man and a woman as a “parody marriage.” And they’re deadly serious. On Feb. 15, Reps. Steven Long, Bill Chumley, Mike Burns, John McCravy, Josiah Magnuson, and Rick Martin introduced the “Marriage and Constitution Restoration Act” in the South Carolina House of Representatives. The bill uses the terms “marriage” and “parody marriage” to redefine what unions the state would recognize. “Parody marriage,” the legislation says, “means any form of marriage that does not involve one man and one woman.” The bill is unconstitutional on its face, and the legal analysis it employs is absurd. It relies partly and mistakenly on the Establishment Clause of the Constitution, which states that “Congress shall make no law respecting the establishment of religion.” Under the Establishment Clause, a secular law means one that is nonreligious while a nonsecular one would be religious in nature. Here’s where things get absurd. According to these representatives, same-sex marriage is religious because all LGBTQ individuals are members of the “religion of Secular Humanism.” Therefore, same-sex marriage is nonsecular and thus a “parody marriage” that the state of South Carolina would no longer recognize if the bill passed. This isn’t a joke.
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The legislation also neglects to define the term parody. According to Merriam Webster, a parody is “an imitation of the style of a particular writer, artist, or genre with deliberate exaggeration for comic effect.” The use of the term by the lawmakers seems to suggest that same-sex marriages are for comic effect. But the only “comic effect” here is that the authors actually introduced this bill, with this language, in 2018. The legislators, however, go further. Same-sex marriage, they believe, was the opening “Secular Humanists” needed “to infiltrate and indoctrinate minors in public schools to their religious world view which is questionably moral, plausible, obscene, and is not secular.” If you’re going to introduce such a hateful piece of legislation, you might as well go all the way and throw in some paranoid conspiracy theories, too. Even if this absurd piece of legislation were to pass the South Carolina legislature, the courts would strike it down as unconstitutional. Marriage equality is settled law, and was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2015. Some lawmakers in South Carolina can’t handle that, and by engaging in this legislative stunt, they are making a parody of themselves. -By Shaundra Young Scott, Executive Director, ACLU of South Carolina
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Hong Kong gay pop star says Malaysia show dropped over LGBT support A Hong Kong pop star said on Thursday last that she had been denied permission to perform in Malaysia because she campaigns for gay rights, amid criticism from activists of rising intolerance toward the LGBT community in the Muslim-majority nation. Singer Denise Ho, who is openly gay, said Malaysian officials told her promoter that her application to perform in the capital Kuala Lumpur in April was refused, due to her support for LGBT people. The LGBT community is routinely persecuted in Malaysia, where gay sex is criminalised – punishable by up to 20 years in prison, caning, or a fine – and the government sanctions campaigns seeking to curb homosexuality and transgenderism. “I am disappointed,” Ho, one of Asia’s most famous Cantopop stars, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation from Hong Kong. [French cosmetics giant, L’Oreal, also cancelled a concert featuring Ho, in Hong Kong, in 2016]. “You would think that in 2018, where many countries are pushing for gay rights and samesex marriages, that the world would be progressing,” she added. “But in fact it is not.” A Malaysian government minister did not specify why the application was turned down, but said all performances in the country must be done in accordance with “local law and values”. “Malaysia welcomes any artist who projects a wholesome value,” the country’s communications and multimedia minister, Salleh Said Keruak, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Ho, who came out publicly in 2012, said she had performed in Malaysia in 2006 without
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Hong Kong pro-democracy singer Denise Ho speaks at a free concert after Lancome, the face-cream company owned by French cosmetics giant L’Oreal, also cancelled a concert featuring Ho, in Hong Kong, in 2016. REUTERS/Bobby Yip
any issues. At least 2,000 people had been expected to attend her concert in April, she added. “Everyone has the right to be themselves. We can be openly gay as someone else can be Christian or Muslim,” Ho said. An article by a Malaysian newspaper on how to identify LGBT people sparked outrage on social media this week. Last year Malaysian health authorities launched a contest on how to ‘prevent’ homosexuality and transgenderism, though it later dropped it after pressure from LGBT groups. Neighbouring Indonesia, the country with the world’s largest Muslim population, is on the cusp of revising its national criminal code to impose restrictions on same-sex relations and consensual sex between men and women outside marriage. Yet elsewhere in the region, Taiwan ruled last year that same-sex couples can marry, in a huge boost for the gay rights movement in Asia, and Hong Kong will host the 2022 Gay Games, the first Asian city to hold the sports and cultural event. -Beh Lih Yi, Thomson Reuters Foundation (eile.ie 19 February 2018)
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Blockchain can help the LGBT community flex its economic muscle, and fight rights abuses globally – from Chechnya to Uganda – while safeguarding the identity of members, said the charity behind a new digital initiative. The LGBT Token scheme will use blockchain – the technology behind digital currencies such as bitcoin – to create a digital system that will make the community’s economic power more visible, said the LGBT Foundation. There is no precise measure for global spending by the LGBT community, but the so-called ‘pink economy’ is estimated at up to $4.6 trillion per year – larger than Germany’s GDP – the charity said. “This is a significant economic force that’s still poorly understood by brands,” Christof
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Wittig, president of the Hong Kong-based LGBT Foundation, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. The digital tokens, which are expected to be issued in April, will be used with the existing Ethereum cryptocurrency. Blockchains are ledgers of digital transactions, which are difficult to tamper with, and are maintained by a network of computers without a centralised authority. Advocates are already exploring how blockchain can protect land rights, fight deforestation, and end child-trafficking. The LGBT Token system will make the purchasing power of the LGBT community visible, giving greater economic clout to its members – without jeopardising their privacy, Witting said. “It’s one’s own choice what type of relationship
Blockchain to make ‘pink economy’ visible, fight LGBT abuses – charity and membership you have to the LGBT community,” he said. “And blockchain allows for safe affiliation to the community.” Blockchain also allows verification of a person’s identity without jeopardising their safety, said Chris Wood, executive director of U.S. nonprofit, LGBT Technology Partnership. “It’s extremely important, especially in parts of the world where our community isn’t accepted,” said Wood. The scheme will also eventually fundraise for LGBT causes, through the sale of additional tokens each year. Funding will be allocated by token holders to issues they see as important.
Creating a unified and visible network would also help the LGBT community rally around such rights abuses, allowing it to respond with aid and assistance.
“All in all, it would brings our community together in a way that I don’t think any current system does,” said Wood. -Ana Ionova, Thomson Reuters Foundation (eile.ie 25 February 2018)
Wittig said this could support causes like combatting the persecution of gay men in places like Uganda or Chechnya. The LGBT community in this deeply conservative region of Russia has reported intensifying persecution and abuse by authorities.
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‘Portugal. The Man’ Will Perform at 2018 HRC Los Angeles Dinner The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), have announced that Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA) will speak, and Grammy Award-winning rock band, Portugal The Man, will perform at the 2018 HRC Los Angeles Dinner. Set to take place on Saturday, March 10, 2018, at the JW Marriott LA LIVE, the event brings together more than 1,000 of HRC’s most active members and supporters in the greater Los Angeles area to raise crucial funds in the fight for LGBTQ equality. “Maxine Waters is a steadfast defender of equality who is fighting to reclaim the United States from the Trump-Pence agenda of hate, fear, and discrimination,” said HRC President Chad Griffin. “For years, Congresswoman Waters has been standing up for the marginalized and oppressed in our society. We are truly honored to welcome her to the 2018 HRC Los Angeles Dinner.” Congresswoman Waters is considered by many to be one of the most powerful women in American politics today. She has gained a reputation as a fearless and outspoken advocate for women, children, people of colour, and the poor. “Portugal. The Man is rocking the resistance and using their platform to help make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ people,” said Griffin. “We’re proud to have Portugal. The Man as part of HRC’s Equality Rocks campaign, helping to spark a conversation about love, fairness, and equality across the country, and we look forward to welcoming them to the 2018 HRC Los Angeles Dinner.” In 2017, Portugal. The Man joined HRC’s Equality Rocks — a public engagement campaign featuring prominent musicians who support LGBTQ equality. In the video for their Grammywinning single Feel It Still – which is featured on their eighth studio album, WOODSTOCK – the Portland rockers send a message of resistance to its fans, giving them tools to fight oppression. The interactive video includes 30 Easter eggs with tips on how to resist during the current political climate of the Trump-Pence administration. HRC was featured in one of the eggs, encouraging followers to “stand up for equality.” Feel It Still dominated the charts and radio airwaves in 2017. The multi-platinum certified hit reigned at #1 at nearly all radio formats, including Top 40, as well as Alternative, where the song held the chart’s top spot for a mind-blowing 20 weeks, breaking the record for most
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Portugal The Man
“Portugal. The Man is rocking the resistance and using their platform to help make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ people” weeks at #1. Billboard Magazine even went as far as to call the song, “the unexpected rock crossover hit of 2017,” while Rolling Stone listed it as “one of the best songs of 2017.” The Human Rights Campaign is working to achieve equality for LGBTQ people. HRC
envisions a world where LGBTQ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work, and in every community. (eile.ie 24 February 2018)
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Famous LGBTQ Champion Figure Skaters One of the most iconic of winter sports is figure skating, as evidenced by its popularity as an Olympic competitive event. There is an abundance of talented LGBTQ individuals in the sport, though the list of prominent individuals is entirely populated by gay men. The International Gay Figure Skating Union (IGFSU) was created as an interest group for the community. It is particularly active with the organizing of the Gay Games. It is only recently that figure skaters have declared their sexual orientation while competing – most have waited until retirement. Many skaters avoid speaking out about LGBTQ rights, though it is also considered one of the gayest sports. These individuals are almost entirely National Champions, and the bulk have competed in World Championships and Olympic Games. A good proportion of them are indeed Olympic medalists and world champions. Canadian Eric Radford was the first out gay man to win an Olympic gold medal, when he did so recently at the 2018 South Korea games (Britain’s John Curry won gold in 1976 before coming out publicly). Slovakia’s Ondrej Nepela was declared his country’s athlete of the twentieth century. Britain’s gay Robin Cousins is the most decorated British ice skater. Several LGBTQ individuals are noted for their unique contributions to the sport. American Timothy Goebel was the first skater to successfully land a quadruple salchow, and to land three quadruple jumps in competition. Britain’s John Curry is credited with being the first to impart a ballet-style of artistry into the competition. Many of these individuals have progressed in their careers to become sports commentators, to coach in their home countries, or to tour with professional skating companies.
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Robin Cousins Image: ITV.com
Regrettably, several LGBTQ figure skaters succumbed to AIDS, including John Curry, Ondrej Nepela, Brian Pockar, Robert McCall, Robert Wagenhoffer, and Lars Dresler. Queerbio have identified notable LGBTQ figure skaters from Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Great Britain, Italy, Mexico, Russian, Slovakia, Spain and the United States.
For a complete list, visit Queerbio at: http://queerbio.com/wiki/index.php?title=LGBTQ_Figure_Skaters (eile.ie 22 February 2018)
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Ankara
Turkey - Ankara ban on LGBTI events continues as Turkish courts reject NGO appeals The ban on public events organised by LGBTI groups, imposed by the Ankara Governor’s office in November 2017, has been
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upheld by Ankara’s 4th and 13th Administrative Courts. Two Ankara-based LGBTI NGOs, Kaos GL and
Pembe Hayat (Pink Life) had challenged the ban in court, initiating their legal action days after Ankara’s governorship made the announcement. Both NGOs called the ban illegal, and asked for the decision to be
revoked. However, both NGOs’ appeals to halt the Ankara ban have been rejected by the city’s administrative courts. “The decisions are ridiculous, to be perfectly honest. The blanket ban is indiscriminate, vague, open-ended and a clear breach of fundamental human rights conventions that Turkey has willingly signed up to. It should never have been introduced in the first place, never mind defended” commented Bjorn van Roozendaal, ILGA-Europe Programmes Director.
Activists have also noted that the Ankara ban coincided with a rise in anti-LGBTI hate speech, with negative comments appearing in the media (traditional and online platforms). This includes remarks specifically directed at LGBTI NGOs.
“Legitimising hate of LGBTI people through a measure like this is unacceptable. The message must go out that this is not OK, the Turkish LGBTI community is not alone and that your News of the court decision in friends in other countries relation to the ban in Ankara is across Europe continue even more concerning in light of to support you in your the detention (and in some cases, re-arrests) of human rights activists legal fight.” in Turkey earlier this month. This included Kaos GL founder Ali Erol and provides yet another example of the deteriorating situation for civil society in the country. The prohibition of any activities organised by LGBTI organisations in Ankara has had worrying consequences. Firstly, the geographical impact of the ban did not stop at the capital city’s borders. Since it was introduced,Turkish LGBTI activists have reported that a Queer Festival was banned by the Beyoğlu District Governorship, that an LGBTI film screening in Bursa was disrupted by the police, and that the university administration at Middle East Technical University prevented two LGBTI-themed film screenings.
said Bjorn van Roozendaal. #LGBTIYasaklanamaz #LGBTICantBeBanned Turkey currently sits at 46th in the Rainbow Europe ranking on law and policy. (eile.ie 26 February 2018)
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Gay Games - Re Paris in
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Senior UNAIDS official latest to go after sex harassment allegation The deputy head of the U.N. agency for HIV/AIDS will not seek to renew his term in office though it is not reasonable to link his departure to a sexual harassment allegation that proved unsubstantiated [‘insufficient evidence’ is not equal to ‘unsubstantiated’, which was the actual IOS finding – MKB Ed. EILE] a spokesman said on Friday. Luiz Loures’ exit was the second of a high-level United Nations official in as many days, after Justin Forsyth, deputy director of the U.N. Children’s Fund, resigned saying he did not want coverage of his past mistakes to damage UNICEF. Forty allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse were made during the last three months of 2017 against U.N. peacekeeping missions, agencies, funds and programmes as well as implementing partners, the United Nations said on Thursday. A formal complaint of sexual harassment was brought against Loures in November 2016, but an inquiry found no basis for it [insufficient evidence], and the case was then closed, UNAIDS said earlier this month.
[According to the AFP, activists and a legal expert have questioned the credibility of the investigation, insisting that important circumstantial evidence was not taken into account. -MKB Ed. EILE]. “The independent investigation done by the WHO’s (World Health Organization) internal oversight services division clearly found that the case was unsubstantiated and recommended the case to be closed,” spokesman Mahesh Mahalingam said. Loures, 61, had had a long and distinguished career of four decades spent working on combating AIDS, including 22 years at UNAIDS, Mahalingam told a news briefing in Geneva. “He clearly feels that this is time for him to move on.”
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Luiz Loures
Mahalingam said it was not reasonable to link Loures’ departure to the harassment allegations, but that UNAIDS Executive Director, Michel Sidibe, had accepted the Brazilian national’s decision not seek to renew his term, which expires at the end of March.
“The decision not to request a renewal of his position was his own.”
[Mr Sidibe was also faulted by the IOS for trying to settle the matter quietly while the investigation was ongoing – MKB Ed EILE].
“On sexual harassment, I would like to assure you we have zero tolerance… (That) means we take the investigation very, very seriously.”
Mahalingam did not elaborate on the circumstances of Loures’s departure. UNAIDS spokeswoman Sophie Barton-Knott, asked whether this had been negotiated, replied by email:
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO director-general, asked about the UNAIDS case, told a news briefing on Feb 7:
Under U.N. rules, the decision to close the case may still be appealed to the administrative tribunal of the International Labour Organisation. -Tom Miles and Stephanie Nebehay, Reuters (eile.ie 26 February 2018)
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Support Stonewall UK Equality Dinner The annual Stonewall Equality Dinner will be taking place on Friday 16 March 2018. On the night, guests will be welcomed to the Sheraton Grand, Park Lane where they will be greeted with a champagne reception, followed by a three-course meal and dancing.
change for LGBT people, and are working towards a world where everyone, everywhere is free to be themselves. They can’t do this without your support, and joining them at the Equality Dinner is one way you can help to ensure that one day everyone, everywhere, is accepted without exception. When and where
Throughout the evening there will be a packed programme of entertainment. Guests will be given the chance to bid on some exclusive auction items and hear speeches from an exciting line-up of speakers, to be announced shortly.
Date: Friday 16 March 2018 Time: 7pm – Champagne Reception, 7.45pm – Dinner, 1am – Carriages Venue: Sheraton Grand Park Lane, Piccadilly, London, W1J 7BX Book tickets
Stonewall exists to achieve real
If you would like to support Stonewall’s work and book a
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table, please contact the events team at events@stonewall.org. uk or if you need any further information, call directly on 020 3795 3412. Stonewall expect this event to sell out very quickly. They strongly recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. Other ways to support One fantastic way you can offer your support to Stonewall is by
donating a gift in kind. They’ll be offering a range of exclusive experiences and luxury items in their silent and live auction on the night. In the past these have ranged from bespoke artwork to flights abroad, gift experiences and tickets to a wide variety of events. If you’re interested in donating a gift in kind, or would like to get involved in any other way, you can email the Events team at events@stonewall.org.uk.
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Information and support for women who need someone to talk to
DLL – Phone: (01) 872 9911 (Callback facility available) 72 EILE Magazine
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Information and support for women who need someone to talk to
DLL – Phone: (01) 872 9911 (Callback facility available) EILE Magazine 75
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Payson Lewis Image: James Bianchi
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