EILE Magazine – September 2015 (Vol.3, Issue 4) by EILE Magazine

EILE

FREE

Magazine V3 Issue 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sept.t 2015

Where I Am Interview with Pamela Drynan

NI LGBT Party Politics

California Dispatch

New Mental Liberation

Liv Monaghan

Bird & Bass II Inside:

Fashion | Film | Music |Health | Interviews

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 radio programme, This Way Out Scott De Buitléir Scott is founder and Editor-in-Chief of EILE Magazine. He is also a writer and broadcaster, based between Dublin and Nottingham. Stephen Donnann Stephen is a writer, LGBT rights and political activist, based in Belfast. He is founder of the all-Ireland equal marriage group, #LoveProudly. Lisa Reynolds Originally from County Meath, Lisa is a fashion industry student living in Bray, County Wicklow. 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.

EILE Magazine

EILE Magazine | Welcome

Highlights September 2015 Where I Am - P.14 Interview with Pamela Drynan, Producer/Director of Where I Am, which features gay author, Robert Drake, whowas attacked in Sligo in 1999

California Dispatch – P. 38 Lucia Chappelle writes from California on hate speech, free speech, and a longdormant controversy

NI LGBT Party Politics - P. 44 Stephen Donnan writes about how party politics is destroying the equal marriage movement in Northern Ireland

Music – Ps. 6, 10 and 18 Loren Smith, Water District and Liv Monaghan are featured in our September issue. Worth checking out!

Fashion – Ps. 22 and 28 This month, Mark Anthony talks about minimalism, and in our Fashion Spotlight, Lisa Reynolds writes on Grunge!

Volume 3, Issue 4 Editor-at-Large: Scott De Buitléir Editor: MKB Contributors: Mark Anthony, M. Butler, Lucia Chappelle, Scott De Buitléir, Stephen Donnan, MKB, Lisa Reynolds, Brian Rochford, Frances Winston Photographers: Aldona Gritzmann, Adam Tyler, Blaine Prow, Laura Radford 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.

1306% 50 #& " .&.#&3 0'

(BZ &VSPQFBO 5PVSJTN "TTPDJBUJPO

…plus film and music reviews and much more! EILE Magazine

EILE Magazine | Editor’s Letter

Contents 6-

Loren Smith

10 -

Water District

14 -

Where I Am

18 -

Liv - Bird & Base II

22 -

Art of Minimalism

28 -

Grunge Fashion

30 -

Tai Chi

34 -

Frances On Movies

38 -

California Dispatch

44 -

NI LGBT Politics

46 -

World News, Views, Marriage Act, TENI, Entertainment, etc

Celebration And Reflection Welcome to the September ‘15 edition of EILE Magazine! As we enter into the cooler months of Autumn, the climate now couldn’t be better in Ireland for LGBT people. The first same-sex marriages will soon take place in the Republic within a matter of weeks, and the new Gender Recognition certificates have started to be issued to applicants by the State. Provisions are being made to protect LGBT teachers, doctors and nurses, currently scared into the closet by their ‘religious ethos’ employers, and other hurdles of homophobia in Ireland are soon planned for demolition. Reflection is a healthy thing to do every so often, and this month’s issue has a good dose of reflection and celebration, as well as intrigue, discovery and entertainment. We chat with Pamela Drynan, the director of the brilliant RTÉ documentary, Where I Am, about the life of Robert Drake, a gay man who was attacked in Sligo in 1999. We hear from EILE’s Belfast-based columnist, Stephen Donnan, on his view that Northern Irish politics is effectively destroying the marriage equality movement in the region, while our American columnist, Lucia Chappelle, writes about hate speech, free speech, and a long-dormant controversy. We also have some brilliant features on musicians Liv Monaghan, Loren Smith, Water District and more, including fashion articles, movie reviews and all the latest LGBT news from Ireland and around the world. It’s a packed and busy issue of EILE this month, and I truly hope you will enjoy it.

Scott De Buitléir Founder / Editor-at-Large

EILE Magazine EILE Magazine

EILE Magazine

Loren Smith Photo: Adam Tyler

After the success of his debut single,”Break Free”, Loren Smith returns with “Beautiful Smile,” another single full of amazing energy and optimism.

released the music video for his breakout single, “Break Free,” it went viral with its upbeat hook and glowing message of positivity.

cityscape.

The heart-warming and playful nature of the video made it an obvious choice to be featured on NBC’s The Today Show.

The video for “Beautiful Smile” will have you dancing in no time. It’s full of good humour, fun, and great dance moves.

This latest single, “Beautiful Smile” directed by Matty Champagne, begins with a bright calm palate while cutting between shots of the hustling Los Angeles

As crowds of friends trickle in, the plain white palate fills with people, colors and dancing, all of which transform its original tranquil feel to an animated room of friendship and an exuberant dance party.

When Loren Smith EILE Magazine

Smith lights up the room smiling from ear to ear, gleefully looking out to the world.

To choreograph the video, Smith enlisted the help of dancer extraordinaire

“My goal is to always perform with Integrity, Excellence, Passion and Skill, and to teach everyone, as I’m learning, to love themselves and each other better”

EILE Magazine

LeRoyal Tutt. The video “Beautiful Smile” showcases Smith’s masterful ability to craft a beautiful pop song with lush arrangements of piano and horns, along with a captivating chorus of hope and adoration. Smith’s music contains an earnest and sincere joy that becomes contagious in the best way imaginable. “I want this song to make you dance, sing, and smile,” Smith comments. “But I want it most of all to make you celebrate the love you give and receive wherever to whomever.” The single is quickly achieving Smith’s goal, filling listeners with happiness and elation. The song was written and composed by Loren Smith & Edward Pimentel, and produced by Josh Stevens (LMFAO) & Nitzan KaiKov (“The Voice”.)

Loren Smith and more a birthright. He would spend hours practicing singing as a child, and in middle school began to realize that his passion for music was a gift worth pursuing. After graduating from college with a bachelor’s degree in music, Smith began writing and singing for film and television, in addition to performing at theme parks. He has performed backing vocals for numerous artists and recently began to follow his own dream, achieving success with his debut single, “Break Free”. Smith has performed hundreds of concerts internationally and will go much further with his relentless drive for music.

the hearts and minds of listeners and viewers with inspiration. Check out the video for “Beautiful Smile” on YouTube https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=TF_ qv22K8Qs and you can download the single now available on iTunes. You can visit Loren at : www.SangLorenSmith. com!

Loren Smith’s sweet and motivational tune is sure to put a smile on your face. “Beautiful Coming from a musically Smile” is a chant of inclined family meant gratitude paired with the that chasing music perfect upbeat visuals, was less of a choice for to successfully capture

You can also catch Loren at:

Twitter-https://twitter.com/SangLorenSmith Instagram-https://instagram.com/sanglorensmith EILE Magazine

Album cover for Beautiful Smile

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want this song to make you dance, sing, and smile. But I want it most of all to make you celebrate the love you give and receive wherever to whomever.â&#x20AC;?

EILE Magazine

Water Di Indie rock band, Water District, already have a Rock Band Of The Year Award under their belts, from LA Music Awards. The band members hail from Los Angeles, and have a mature sound that belies their relatively recent formation. Water District formed in 2012, and have developed a raw and punchy sound, their own brand of indie rock, with emotive lyrics like “please don’t forget me when I leave” when singing “Dear California”, sung with the equally emotive voice of Tice Griffin. Keen video game fans, they have even covered themes like The Legend of Zelda. The band is a foursome, made up of Tice Griffin (lead vocals, guitar, piano), Zack Mueller (lead guitar, backing vocals, keyboard), Hunter Gurney (bass), and Ajay Awashti (drums). 10 EILE Magazine

istrict Water District have their own unique style, while citing influences such as Death Cab For Cutie, The Strokes, Kings of Leon, Silversun Pickups, and The National.

Photo: Blaine Prow

EILE Magazine looked in on Water District, the Los Angeles based indie rock band who have released three albums since 2012. Photo: Ed Ziehm Ajay Awasthi, Ticey Griffin, Hunter Gurney and Zack Mueller.

Having released two albums independently online, This Was Worth the Drive (2012) and Dear California EP (2013), Water District then selffunded a national tour in 2013, EILE Magazine 11

Photo: Blaine Prow playing Austin, Nashville, Chicago, Seattle, and San Francisco. Then in 2014, the band signed to an independent record company, Normandie Records. Here they teamed up with producer/engineer Danny Balistocky (Yellowcard, 3 Doors Down, Metro Station) at Revolution 9 Recording Studios in Hollywood, CA for their debut project with Normandie. Water District EP was released by the band on December 16th, and they feel it is their best record to date, one that truly represents who they are as musicians. EILE Magazine agrees, and feels this band is well worth a listen. Especially for all you Indie fans, now is the time to add Water District EP to your collection!

To download Water District EP, visit: http://www.waterxdistrict.com/

12 EILE Magazine

Water District at Newport Beach Party June 2015

EILE Magazine 13

Where I Am Scott De Buitléir interviews Pamela Drynan, who produced and directed Where I Am, the RTÉ documentary about Robert Drake’s attack in Sligo as a young gay man, and his life since ‘Where I Am’ is an RTÉ documentary about Robert Drake, a gay American writer, who was attacked in Ireland in January 1999, at his flat in Holborn Street, Sligo town. Robert came to Ireland, mainly because of his interest in Yeats, and found love with Kieran Slevin, who was working as a doctor in Sligo at the time. After meeting Kieran, Robert moved from Dublin to Sligo, and while living in Sligo town, was attacked one night by two local men, Glen Mahon (21) and Ian Monaghan (20). Robert was left for dead, covered in blood and unable to breathe, when Kieran found him, and the apartment had been turned upsidedown. Mahon had also stolen Robert’s wallet. The attack, which 14 EILE Magazine

friend and writer, Colm Tóibín, said was “savage, vicious, cruel, and inexplicable” left Robert in a coma, with breathing difficulties, brain damage, speech impairment, memory loss, and in a wheelchair. Robert woke up from the coma in Philadelphia, and in spite of his injuries, stated: “I was very happy in Ireland, I want to go back to Ireland”. His reasons for wanting to return were many, but included his wish to thank people who had helped him at the time, like the Gardaí and the hospital staff, to see if coming back would help trigger some memories of what happened, and to try to find out why the two young men attacked him. He would like to know why they just didn’t leave the apartment, if the reason for the attack was that he was gay. During the trial, the defence had used the “homosexual panic defence”, which says

that if a gay man makes advances on a straight man, it triggers some violent reaction in the straight man, whose responsibility for the attack is then somehow diminished. It is a shameful thing that this defence appears to be still allowed in Ireland, as it was used in a case regarding the death of gay man, Cyril Moran, in Cartron, Sligo, in 2010. Where I Am, the documentary about Robert Drake, was produced and directed by Pamela Drynan, whom Scott interviewed (below) to find out why she had chosen Robert’s return to Ireland as her subject matter, and how she herself was affected by Robert’s story:

How did you come upon Robert Drake’s story, and how different was it from any of your previous work?

Gay American author, Robert Drake, on his return to Ireland

Pamela Drynan: I first

read about Robert Drake in around 2008. I was struck by the fact that he had forgiveness for his attackers and thought about coming back to Ireland. I decided to track him down and ask him if he would let me film his return, it took a while, but when I finally met him in 2010 I had secured some development funding from the Irish Film Board and he was open to being filmed. Luckily Butch [Cordora] his carer, agreed to accompany him on the journey, and we filmed this in 2011. I think those who are carers are often the unsung heroes in our societies. I wanted to explore what returning to the scene of the crime might mean, Robertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s memories/lack of memories and his will to say thank you to those who helped him here. I wanted to look at how the aftermath of violence

affects survivors and all of those involved including the communities and individuals around them. Robert left Ireland in a coma and returned to visit, his journey I felt would be inspiring and hopeful. With all documentaries you have to be passionate about telling the story, no matter what.

What was the most surprising aspect to the journey? PD: That good memories

moved Robert through a cathartic process of letting go and also that Butch [his carer] was so moved by the scene of the crime, thinking of how Robert was before the attack.

Did you think Mahon & Monaghan would speak to Robert, either on or off camera? PD: I let them know I

was making the film and that Robert was coming

to Ireland, through their solicitor in Sligo, and he advocated on their behalf. They chose not to meet with him or speak to him, that was their choice.

Did you think there was a conclusion to the story, or did it provide a particular insight that you hoped to achieve? PD: I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think there

were any happy endings, more a feeling of acceptance with life and an ability to move forward positively. Working with Robert made me appreciate that every day is important and that friendship is vital to our mental health. Recovery is a very personal journey but you can be well supported in it.

What was your reaction personally to the story, both before and during filming? EILE Magazine 15

PD: I was shocked when

I read about the story, and I was intrigued about Robert and his ability to forgive his attackers. During the filming, my respect for his honesty and bravery kept growing, and his lack of self pity was very moving. I was lucky to work with a great team of people in making the film. The Irish Film Board believed in the story, Tristan [Orpen Lynch] and Aoife [O’Sullivan] in Subotica kept the project going over several years, Richard Kendrick [Director of Photography] shot the film beautifully, and the editor, Janice Toomey, helped craft the

story in a emotionally intelligent way. I was very lucky that everyone who met Robert on and off screen wanted to support this project. ********* We at EILE have to admire Robert’s attitude, and have a lot to learn from it. He says: “Everything got put on hold with the assault. It really changed my life in a really dramatic way. I felt I had a choice to make. Either I could get better or get bitter. I chose the former, and that has made all the difference”.

Where I Am is a feature directorial debut for Pamela Drynan who most recently produced On Probation (RTÉ) Surgeons (RTÉ), Who Stole the World Cup? (Channel 4), Teacher Teacher (BBC), Gutted (BBC), Chancers (BBC) Little Angels (BBC). The documentary is produced by Subotica. Established in 1998, Subotica is one of Ireland’s leading film and TV production companies. Interview: Scott De Buitléir Additional Text: M. Butler

Robert Drake with Colm Tóibín looking at the Oscar Wilde statue in Merrion Square, Dublin

16 EILE Magazine

Robert Drake as he is today

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everything got put on hold with the assault. It really changed my life in a really dramatic way. I felt I had a choice to make. Either I could get better or get bitter. I chose the former, and that has made all the differenceâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Robert Drake

EILE Magazine 17

Liv Monaghan

Photo: Aldona Gritzmann

18 EILE Magazine

Bird & Bass II – Liv Monaghan Longtime friend of EILE Magazine, Liv Monaghan, has just released a new album, Bird & Base II, for her Bird & Base project with Sava Medan on double-bass, recorded in Paris a month ago. The track we particularly liked from the album is Grandma’s Hands, written by Bill Withers. The album also includes versions of Somewhere Over The Rainbow, Norwegian Wood, and a great version of Bacharach & David’s I Say A Little Prayer. Described as “A cocktail of jazz standards, Funky soul rhythms, Bossa and Chanson Française, it may even have a bit of the July heatwave in there sailing between all the other tangled tales” the album has something for most musical tastes. Liv is multi-talented, holding an MA in Theatre and Art History from Trinity College Dublin, and making forays into the worlds of design, music and writing. She has worked in costume design, theatre design, and clothes design, dividing

Bird & Bass II

EILE Magazine 19

Liv Monaghan Photo: Laura Radfird 20 EILE Magazine

her time between Italy, Paris and New York. As well as being a songstress, she loves the world of fashion. She says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am driven by the poetry of what we wear. It is an art and a great love to me.â&#x20AC;? On the very pared back album, Bird & Base II, Liv does vocals, with Sava Medan on Double Bass, and it is mastered and mixed by Seyo Kovo. To download the album, visit the Bandcamp page at: https://livmonaghan.bandcamp.com/

EILE Magazine 21

The Art Of Minimalism Mark Anthony on why less is more Every so often I tend to have a little bit of a crisis. And when I say crisis, I mean a fashion crisis. I started to question my own style (again) and attacked my wardrobe as a response (again). It was a viscous cycle to be honest. However, after much thought, I figured it all out. Taking a minimalist approach keeps me happy. I am more than happy to keep things simple (to a certain

extent). So I thought I would delve into what minimalism means, and the recent cultural influences to this trend. We live in an age where almost everything is embellished and overcomplicated. Thanks to the internet, we now have access to a constant stream of information, which, in many ways, is a fantastic thing. But this information overload can also lead us to feel bombarded and confused at times, with

easy. This is a stress-free approach to life a lot of us guys strive for. Minimalism branches out into all aspects of life, from the buildings around us, to the way we portray ourselves both on and offline. For instance, Kanye West’s 2013 album, Yeezus, has sometimes bleak and often unlistenable tracks. What the record has in abundance, though, is a minimal sound. It also had minimal promotion and stripped-back artwork and packaging. The American rapper opted for a clear, empty case revealing an unprinted CD, with the record’s information subtly etched into the disc. But how does this relate to menswear? Well, we all know that fashion trends are often 22 EILE Magazine

endless social sites to communicate with one another on, and so many options in terms of what to wear, watch and listen to. This is why many people are deciding to embrace a minimalist approach to their lifestyle. I’m not telling you to throw everything away and go all Zen on me – although, I can see how this way of life could have its benefits – I’m talking about keeping it simple, which ultimately keeps things

Kanye West as designer in white T

influenced by cultural zeitgeists, so it’s no surprise that we have seen more and more minimalism in menswear. Minimalism in modern menswear has a lot to thank Giorgio Armani for. He was arguably the first designer to popularise a stripped-back and elegantly simple aesthetic, offering straightforward suiting that defined large periods of the 1980s and 1990s.

Giorgio Armani

Elsewhere, brands such as Prada, Kris Van Assche, Neil Barrett, Jil Sander, Maison Margiela and Matthew Miller have all adopted the concept and run with it to great effect. And you should too. For one, it’s very difficult to get minimalism wrong, provided you follow a few basic rules. On top of that, it’s virtually trend-free, meaning it’s not likely to go out of fashion, or fall out of favour, any time soon.

Prada A/W 2015 Milan EILE Magazine 23

But above all, a minimalist aesthetic is extremely versatile, and can be easily adapted to both formal and informal situations, with hardly any effort at all. When it comes to everyday dressing, minimalism is all about reaching for quality basics, and refining your wardrobe down to pieces that are simple, yet stylish. We all know how complicated modern life can get. With smartphones, tablets, endless genres of music that pop up, and constant fashion trends filling the high street â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it can all start to make your head spin after a while. However, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to remember that modern technology can also allow things to become more streamlined, and beautifully simple.

Maison Margiela

24 EILE Magazine

Jil Sanders S/S 2015

We now have the option to download all our music, books and films digitally, ridding us of all the physical clutter that ultimately ends up gathering dust in our lofts. Minimalism is not so much an architectural or design concept, as a mode of thinking in itself. The basic framework is, characteristically, simple to follow: this is about ascetic clothing rather than aesthetic, which means as little fuss as possible.

EILE Magazine 25

A brand new monthly clu ‘Mezz’ is about to launch i The Red Hen’ Pa

Mezz Limerick will launch on Thursday, October 1, at the Red Hen cover charge, a

Mezz is the creation of group of young lesbians from the Limerick in the city. While the LGBTQ scene in Limerick has grown in recen to feel safe, have fun, an

It is not run for profit and there is no cover charge. It has a late b Red Hen in Patrick street. Due to the demand for an alternative ni launc

Mezz at The Red Hen, 15 Patrick Street, Limer

Check out http://www.facebook.com/m 26 EILE Magazine

ub night for girls, called in Limerick City, hosted by atrick Street.

n, which boasts a stunning venue, private rooftop garden, no and late bar.

LGBTQ community, to fill a much needed space for queer girls nt years, there has never been a fun monthly night just for girls nd meet new people.

bar, and kicks off at 10pm. The night is supported by the The ight for girls in Limerick, there has been a huge buzz about the ch.

rick, Thursday, October 1st, 10 pm No CC.

mezzlimerick for more information. EILE Magazine 27

Spotlight On...

Grunge Fashion

Lisa Reynolds on what goes into the Grunge look DIY baby! This was the ethos of grunge fashion from its beginnings in the Northwest United States in the 1980s. Beginning on the streets of Seattle, the style then moved to New York, before bursting across the Atlantic with a bang. But the word grunge had been around since 1972, and became a popular term in the latter part of the 1980s, when the style took off in Seattle. Music has always been closely associated with grunge fashion, with many alternative bands such as Nirvana, Hole, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Mudhoney and The Melvins amongst others, promoting the

Mudhoney 2007

28 EILE Magazine

grunge style of ripped and faded jeans, plaid shirts tied around the waist, flannel shirts, beanies, baseball caps, wool pendletons layered over t-shirts with logos, and black combat-style boots such as Dr. Martens. Mirroring the feelings of Nirvana 1992

loneliness, sadness and discontentedness of many of their fans, this style was hugely self-expressive for grunge youth, who were born out of hippies and raised on punk. A stance against the capitalist excesses of the 1980s, and purchased in

thrift stores and army surplus outlets, other elements of this style included cargo pants, vintage floral-print dresses, over-sized sweaters, ripped tights or leggings, unmatched clothing, clothing that looked worn, holey cardigans, baby doll dresses and granny dresses. The colour palette in this style is typically muted and faded. In terms of hair, hair is long, loose and gives the appearance of being unkempt. It can be bleached or dyed, but colour tends to be uneven or grown out, in keeping with the grunge look. Heavy black mascara and eyeliner are popular in this look when it comes to makeup. Grunge has also inspired many runway designers in their collections. Marc Jacobs brought grunge to the runway in his Spring 1993 collection for Perry Ellis. Other designers, such as Versace, Calvin Klein, Anna Sui and Armani have also taken inspiration from the disheveled style of grunge, while editor, Grace Coddington, and fashion photographer, Steven Meisel, compiled an 8-page article and layout for fashion bible Vogue, with Sub Pop cofounder and owner

Jonathan Poneman. The first mention of grunge in the fashion media came on the 17th of August 1992, in Women’s Wear Daily: “Three hot looks – Rave, Hip Hop and Grunge – have hit the street and stores here, each spawned by the music that’s popular among the under21 set.” But ultimately, it was among the many workingclass and middle-class fans of grunge music that this style of clothing really had its home. It entered the mainstream conscience in the early 1990s, after the release and subsequent success of Nirvana’s classic rock and multiselling album, Nevermind, and through the years, it has never lost its appeal,

Joan Smalls 2015: The Daily Mail

remaining one of the few really timeless styles.

Actor Jonathan Brandis 1993 by airwolfberlin

EILE Magazine 29

Tai Chi Brian Rochford on the benefits of this ancient exercise system Tai Chi - ancient wisdom for a constantly-changing modern world. It could be just what the doctor ordered to keep you stress-free and in good health. We could all do with more energy. There seems to be growing evidence that practising Tai Chi could help in the prevention of many illnesses. This form of exercise is so convenient for you to practise as you don’t need any expensive equipment. You can adapt the system to suit your present set of circumstances, and present state of health. Tai Chi is a ancient form of Chinese martial art which can be practised for its health benefits and also as a form of self defence. Although in the beginning it was developed as a martial art, it is largely now practised for a variety of health reasons. Some training forms of Tai Chi are best known

30 EILE Magazine

for their relatively slow movements. When practising Tai Chi exercises, the connective tissue is never stretched, and you don’t fully extend or put unnecessary pressure on your joints. Instead you focus on your body’s sensations, while breathing naturally and deeply. The low-impact style of these exercises make them ideal for anyone wishing to combine relaxation with improving physical and mental health. Participating in a Tai Chi exercise programme can be used as a complement to primary medical treatment, and could help improve a patient’s quality of life. In recent years, there has been carefully conducted research that has seen Tai Chi recommended as an adjunct to medical treatments in the rehabilitation of ailments so commonly connected with getting older.

Research carried out at the University of Toronto into the benefits of Tai Chi found that it was useful in reducing stress, relieving dizziness and headaches, while also helping with cases of insomnia. There have been reported improvements in the health of people suffering from arthritis and rheumatism. Tai Chi helps to strengthen tendons and ligaments by putting them through a range of full motion. This practice can improve flexibility and slow down age related degeneration. It is always a good idea to consult your doctor if you are uncertain whether Tai Chi exercises are suitable for you, or if you have any medical condition that may be adversely affected by certain kinds of physical exercise. Tai Chi exercises address effectively the essential components of fitness. Time and pressures of daily living can take their toll on the body and the mind, causing physical,

Single whip posture

mental, and even emotional problems. This is where Tai Chi becomes your most valuable asset. It is so difficult to find the right balance in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world, with all its distractions and demands on our time. Taking time out from our busy stressful lives, to allow ourselves to experience inner

harmony, can be a challenge in itself. This is where Tai Chi can help, as its primary purpose is to restore calmness, and induce relaxation. Our bodies and our brains need oxygen to live, and to function at peak performance, and by practising these exercises on a regular

basis, you can be sure of getting plenty of oxygen, as deep, slow, breathing is an important part of the routine. As we get older, and so many of us now live a sedentary lifestyle, working in offices and spending so much time sitting in front of computers, our bodies EILE Magazine 31

and minds suffer from lack of natural stimulation. Our bodies were not designed to remain in a fixed position for extended amounts of time. We were born to move, and that is how our bodies remain healthy and strong, through the practice of daily exercises. Practising Tai Chi keeps our bodies flexible, and our minds free of stress and worry. Research has show that practising Tai Chi can also help with sleep problems, arthritis, and low bone density. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to welcome some ancient wisdom into our sophisticated busy modern lives, and be rewarded every day by a feeling of wellbeing and new found joy.

The single whip movement

Usually you keep one hand remaining in a Beak like position. Keep your four fingers lightly touching your thumb while at the same time keeping the palm of your hand facing downward. With this exercise you should keep your arms at shoulder height in the shape of loose wings.

32 EILE Magazine

Tai Chi can be practised by all age groups

Open Tai Chi stances stretch the muscles.

EILE Magazine 33

34 EILE Magazine

Frances Winston on Movies Me and Earl and The Dying Girl

Directed by: Alfonso Gomez-Rejon Starring: Thomas Mann, Olivia Cooke, Ronald Cyler II, Jon Bernthal, Nick Offerman, Connie Britton, Molly Shannon Based on the bestselling novel of the same name, as the title suggests, this isn’t a light-hearted comedy with the ‘Me’ of the title, Greg Gaines (Mann) telling the tale of his friendship with Rachel (Cooke) and how his friend Earl (Cyler II) fits into the picture. A high school misfit, Gaines spends his time trying to fit in by remaining on the periphery of all the various cliques in his school. When Rachel is diagnosed with cancer, his mother (Britton) guilt trips him into visiting her. Initially reluctant, the pair soon begin to bond, and when he introduces her to his friend Earl, they start

showing her their cheesy homemade remakes of classic movies. So bad that they are good, they help her through her treatment and dark days. However, when Gaines and Earl are persuaded to make a movie especially for Rachel, it proves more challenging than they expected. As they struggle with creating a masterpiece for their dying friend, their own relationship becomes strained, and it looks increasingly unlikely that Rachel will ever get to see her tribute film.

This is thanks in no small part to the chemistry of the three leads, who all give outstanding performances. In fact, all the cast do a great job here, and resist the temptation to pile on the schmaltz. Even the secondary characters, so often overlooked in these types of films, are quirky and well-developed. The script is wonderful – always just the right side of cheesy – and it is beautifully shot, never forsaking gritty reality for beauty.

Although this appears to be aimed at a tween audience, it actually has incredibly broad appeal. Very few people won’t be able to relate to the awkwardness of those final years in school, with college looming on the horizon. There are also very few people who won’t have known someone who suffered a serious illness, so this will definitely strike a chord. They never over sentimentalise the core subject matter, and despite the serious themes, this has a huge amount of humour and heart.

This film received a standing ovation at the Sundance Film Festival, and it’s easy to see why. It is moving without being schmaltzy, funny without being cheesy, and the themes resonate with pretty much everybody. This is the kind of film that requires a tissue or two, and is head and shoulders above some of its flashier counterparts with huge name casts. It will tug at your heart strings, and you will feel all the feels ,and actually leave the cinema grateful for it! In Cinemas Now!

EILE Magazine 35

36 EILE Magazine

Hitman Agent 47

Directed by: Aleksander Bach Starring: Rupert Friend, Hannah Ware, Zachary Quinto, Ciarán Hinds, Thomas Kretschmann, and Angelababy The 2007 video game adaptation, Hitman, was a surprise hit, so it was only a matter of time before we were graced with another offering. Here Rupert Friend (ex-squeeze of Kiera Knightley) takes on the role of the cold and calculating assassin who has been bred to kill. Teaming up with a young woman named Katia (Ware) he determines to help her find her father, who was responsible for the formation of the Agent programme which created him. However, they are not the only ones seeking the missing scientist, and they are pursued by the ruthless John Smith (Quinto) from the ICA (International Contracts Agency). He is seeking the runaway academic

in order to allow the leader of a group called Syndicate International restart the Agent programme, and create a race of super assassins. If you don’t play the video games, that may not have made much sense to you, and it’s not always clear who is the good guy and who is the bad guy as the plot twists and turns. Friend has the cold determined 47 down to a tee, but he is a bit of an anti-hero, making it difficult to root for him. Even Katia is difficult to get behind, despite her desperation to discover her roots. Personally, I found myself rooting for Quinto’s Smith on more than one occasion. He plays these kind of complex characters so well, and is definitely one of the best things about this film (although it seems a surprising choice for him given his movie star status). Video games don’t tend to engage the viewer, or have the same sort of character development as films, and this definitely suffers from that. However, in its attempt to be a

mainstream action flick it will probably also alienate some of the fans of the game. It’s always hard to strike the right balance with these sorts of films, and although they have made a good attempt, it never quite hits you the way it should (no pun intended). While it is far better than it should be, and great fun at times, the fact that you don’t ultimately care that much about the characters leaves it lacking. At just over 90 minutes, it won’t bore you, but it’s not quite high octane enough to thrill either. A good choice if you are looking for a popcorn movie that requires little engagement. However, they do set it up for another sequel, so of that goes ahead hopefully they can learn from the mistakes of this one, as it could have been much better. In Cinemas Now!

EILE Magazine 37

Califor

New MENTAL

Lucia Chapelle writes on free speech versus hate speech and the re-emergence of a long-dormant controversy Like an unexpected next-day belch from last night’s questionable meal, a long-dormant controversy rippled anew through Southern California’s LGBT community, with the recent revival of a problematic weekend-long broadcast, on a venerable but flagging listener-sponsored radio station.

38 EILE Magazine

The controversy has been dormant because most of the purveyors of the brand of Afrocentric thought, featured during “Afrikan Mental Liberation Weekend”, have slipped into obscurity. That school had found a home on the left-leaning Pacifica Radio Los Angeles station KPFK in the 80s, when AMLW was an annual event. It typically drew an outcry from the Jewish community, because of overt and implied antiSemitic remarks, in both the pre-recorded academic presentations and the live

commentary. Later, the LGBT community began to notice its homophobic strain. But Pacifica, with its tradition of defending free speech – from being called before the U.S. House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) for airing the views of Communists in the 1950s, to the George Carlin “Seven Words You Can’t Say on Television” case in the 70s, to the “Jerker” case in the 80s, not to mention the first broadcast of a positive discussion

rnia Dispatch:

ENTAL LIBERATION

of homosexuality in 1959 – took a chance on AMLW twice more in the early 90s. Again there was the outrage over anti-Semitism and homophobia, again the effort to do “remedial” programming to critique the material. There was also an attempt to set some guidelines on how controversial material should be handled by the mostly volunteer program producers, and to define what constituted hate speech in a rabidly free speech zone. Those efforts to contain the situation didn’t help much. During the last AMLW in 1992, not even the progressive African American scholars recruited to add critical commentary were spared on-air derision from the host, and shunning by a segment of the black community. Free speech notwithstanding, it was the end of AMLW … for a while. In the years since then, Pacifica has been through hell. Time and space don’t permit even

a cursory overview of the internecine activist bloodbath that has ensued, ostensibly to make the network “more democratic.” Suffice to say that chaos now reigns, all five stations, including KPFK, and the Foundation that owns the licences, are in grave financial and organizational trouble. There remains no institutional memory of the previous experiences with AMLW, so the pattern repeated itself, and another AMLW was presented in August. Local LGBT press reported on a sample “homophobic rant,” and pondered the fate of LGBT programming on the station (especially IMRU, the country’s longest-running local queer community radio show) in the future, pending which faction should take over if the current management crashes and burns. Local LGBT programmers did an hour-long panel on homophobia in the African American community, which ironically featured one of the same guests who appeared in the antihomophobia “remedial”

program after the last AMLW. Now in 2015, are the issues still really free speech versus hate speech and/or homophobia in the Black community? Let me raise the possibility that the problem isn’t unfettered free speech, but rather unfettered credulity. And let’s at least give as much attention not only to racism in the LGBT community, but to what I’ll call the “Afrophobia” of the American left as we do to African Americans’ alleged overwhelming homophobia. The first thing you should understand is that the recorded lectures and interviews that make up the bulk on AMLW – substantially unchanged over the years – can’t really be considered representative of the state of African American thought … and never have been. Some of the leading Afrocentrists and Black public thinkers of other stripes consulted in the 90s were at best uncomfortable with the line-up of speakers, at worst denouncing them – privately. You have to EILE Magazine 39

carefully pick and choose to find adherents to their views, which for several include the notion that melanin (the pigment that makes our skin dark) gives Black people special abilities from muscular coordination to mental superiority, including ESP and other unusual faculties. Without pausing to debate the merits or demerits of this theory, it’s safe to say it’s not taken seriously by most African Americans, and that followers of that flavor of Afrocentrism on which it’s based are skimpy at best. In the same way that debunked conspiracy theories on the Internet never die, bankrupt ideas can find attention repeatedly on community radio. The internet has also exacerbated that unfettered credulity – the willingness to believe almost anything –that I mentioned before. That credulity fuels the Afrophobia that keeps AMLW returning to the air after so many failures. In the 90s as today, white leftist managers – eager to be on the “right” side with the African American community – yielded to their fear of “the angriest Black person in the room’s” threats to shame them, rather than listen to

40 EILE Magazine

other Black voices. This is one way the left manifests racism – the willingness to believe that the most outlandish positions must be the best ones. That same “believe the worst” credulity also helps maintain the stereotype that the Black community is relentlessly homophobic. There’s plenty of research that indicates that Black folk aren’t really significantly more homophobic than white folk – including the discovery that it wasn’t really Black voters that pushed California’s anti-marriage equality Proposition 8 to victory in 2008. Like the erroneous first impression the exit polling data hangs on to this day, the first reaction to the homophobia presented in AMLW was to return to the old assumptions that Black rejection of LGBTs (never the reverse, of course) is the thing to address. Well, it isn’t the 90s, or even the 2000s, anymore, and things have indeed changed somewhat. While it is undeniable that many African American LGBTs can tell you horror stories about their struggles in the community, the most vibrant wing of the civil rights movement today, #BlackLivesMatter, is not only led by openly queer

women, its fundamental doctrine includes the intersectionality of identities, and rejects the archaic requirement that human issues should be kept separate, even considered rivaling or antagonistic interests. These young people demonstrate a new consciousness that defies the old orders of both the establishment and the radical opposition. They see no other way in a country where 73% of anti-LGBT hate crimes are committed against People of Color (not by People of Color) … because Black Lives Matter. By the way, if you need to hear this to understand better what the expression “Black Lives Matter” means – and why augmenting it with something like “all lives matter” doesn’t help to bridge the racial divide – think of it this way. If I came to you and said, “My house is on fire,” it would not be appropriate for you to lay a sympathetic hand on my shoulder and say, “All housing matters.” If you truly believed all housing mattered, you’d help me put the fire out, rather than deflect attention away from the emergency at hand. Black people are under attack in very specific

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

ways, so it’s important to be able to say “Black Lives Matter” without qualification. More than “all lives matter,” #BlackLivesMatter should bring to mind that Black Trans Lives Matter (because Black transpeople are being slaughtered at an alarming rate), that Black Women’s Lives Matter (because Women of Color make up the majority of the poor), that Black Children’s Lives Matter (because Children of Color are being left behind in education and

opportunities). That’s how the movement of today sees it. It’s time for progressives on both sides of conflicts, of the sort generated by AMLW, to get with the new program. Lucia Chappelle was Program Director with KPFK 1987-94, and on staff/volunteer 1973-75

Lucia Chappelle is the Associate Producer of the Los Angelesbased LGBT programme This Way Out

42 EILE Magazine

NYC November 2014

Comedic Duo Raymond & Lane Debut New “Real Life” Comedy Series.

The wacky characters (created and played by Matt Cullen & Troy LaPersonerie) star in the new real life comedy series appropriately called “Real Life with Raymond & Lane”.

attention after featuring several special guest stars including Lori Beth Denberg (All That), Alaska (RuPaul’s DragRace), Lalaine (Lizzie McGuire), Heather Matarazzo (The Princess Diaries) and Jamie Brewer (American Horror Story)

The wacky new show comes after two successful online seasons of their comedy series Raymond & Lane, which gained a wide range of media

Real Life with Raymond & Lane follows the characters candidly through the streets of Los Angeles and takes an even more in depth look at their zany and overdramatic

lives. Think Billy Eichner meets Candidly Nicole Meets The Simple Life. The series will air every Tuesday on the Raymond & Lane YouTube Channel.

EILE Magazine 43

Opinion: Party Politics Is Killing NI’s Equal Marriage Movement Stephen Donnan writes about the need for the political parties to work together in Northern Ireland to achieve the goal of marriage equality

to be involved in politics, for the simple fact that we depend on friendly, and openly LGBT, political leaders to legislate for us to have basic rights; rights such as housing, employment protections, anti-discrimination laws and yes, even marriage.

loose.

A number of Alliance and SDLP MLAs, who had been expected to support the measure, were absent, and party members like myself were found both on the receiving end of difficult questions, and made to demand answers My problem, however, from those same MLAs. The same thing happened is when that political again in April 2013, activism begins to not and as Convenor of the just hinder our march Alliance Party’s LGBT for equality, but Committee, I was being actively damage it. criticized by members of other parties whose I have seen that ever members had supported since the first equal the motion, and again in First off let me just state marriage vote in October April 2014, during the that I don’t believe that 2012, a motion tabled local election campaign. being politically active by the Green Party, and Was the critique justified? or involved in a political seconded by Sinn Féin, Of course it was – I was party is a bad thing at all the first time the debate the face of the LGBT wing – I have been at times had been brought to the of a political party that a member of a political floor of the Northern had yet to get its house party, and indeed I was the Ireland Assembly, it was in order when it came to first Chair of the Alliance subsequently shut down by equal marriage, but the Party’s LGBT Committee – both a majority vote and abuse (and often times it something I am immensely a Petition of Concern* by was vile) that I received proud to have been able the DUP. What happened from other LGBT people to do. LGBT people need next was that all hell broke on that basis, made that 44 EILE Magazine

job all the harder. Several times I considered not just quitting the election campaign, but dropping out of politics completely. Thankfully, I was a bit more level-headed than that, and I decided to start my own equal marriage group called LoveProudly at the start of 2015. But those same partisan arguments that I had had with members of Sinn Fein, the Greens, Socialists, and other parties that supported equal marriage in full, are still happening, and LGBT people continually turn their guns on the wrong people and the wrong activists. Time after time I had to say “But I’m a gay man too, why do you want me to apologise for the actions of a few MLAs? I feel betrayed and let down too.” I’m not trying to give those MLAs who duck on the issue of equal marriage a by-ball by any means – if you support equality you support equality for everyone – but both Alliance and the SDLP have LGBT groups within them, and members who are openly gay and fighting for equal marriage. Don’t doubt for a second that those same people are having the same awkward and difficult conversations with their own colleagues on your behalf. That is

their job so help them do it. I have seen way too many times on Twitter the assembled ranks of both SDLP and Sinn Féin activists argue it out over which party is better at supporting equal marriage and equality for LGBT people. Too many times I watched NI21 Twitter warriors throw punches at Alliance activists, such as myself, over which party is more LGBT friendly. You know what? It bores me. It doesn’t do us any good, and it helps those opposed to LGBT equality make the argument that we can’t get our own house in order, never mind run an effective campaign. We need to look at the campaigns for equality in the South, and across the water in England, Scotland and Wales, to see how the political parties worked together to achieve something incredible for their LGBT communities. Just this weekend I had the privilege of attending the Glasgow Pride festival, and could see how the political parties and their activists celebrated together, without taking potshots at each other, at just how far Scotland had come on its journey for full equality for LGBT people living there. Why can’t we do the same in Northern Ireland? Why

does every argument – never mind flags, parades, welfare reform – have to come down to who is doing it better? LoveProudly has committed itself to working with all activists and political representatives who want to see marriage equality implemented, regardless of their party, or what way their other colleagues may have voted. The only way we can achieve equality is if we work together as activists, rather than tearing each other apart, and becoming alienated from each other. Support networks and campaigns like Equal Marriage NI, Fight4Equality, and LoveProudly, cannot survive if we entrench ourselves behind party political lines. The only way we can get what we deserve is to congratulate each other on our successes, and make a commitment to build on them, rather than engage in a tiring and draining game of one-upmanship that keeps us stuck where we are. It’s time for the political games to stop and the work to begin.

– Stephen Donnan

EILE Magazine 45

Civil Rights Leader and campaigner for LGBT rights, Julian Bond, has died Civil Rights leader, former chairman of NAACP, and longtime supporter of LGBT rights, Dr Julian Bond passed away has passed away. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, he died, aged 75, after a short illness. The NAACP paid tribute to him, saying he inspired a generation of civil rights leaders: [..]“From his days as a young

46 EILE Magazine

activist to his years as both an elder statesman and NAACP Chairman Emeritus, Julian Bond inspired a generation of civil rights leaders,” said NAACP Chairman Roslyn M. Brock. “From my days as a youth board member of the NAACP to my present tenure as NAACP Chairman, like so many of my generation and before, I am yet inspired by the depth and breadth of Chairman Emeritus Bond’s exemplary service: activist, writer, historian, professor,

public intellectual, public servant and an unrelentingly eloquent voice for the voiceless. The grateful citizen heirs of the civil and human rights legacy of Julian Bond can neither be counted nor confined to a generation. Many of the most characteristically American freedoms enjoyed by so many Americans today were made real because of the lifelong sacrifice and service of Julian Bond. On behalf of the NAACP and our country, we ask for your prayers for his family.”

“The nation and the NAACP deeply grieve Julian Bond’s death even as we are profoundly grateful for his life,” said NAACP President and CEO Cornell William Brooks. “The arc of service of Chairman Emeritus Julian Bond’s life extends high and wide over America’s social justice landscape: as a young lieutenant of Martin Luther King Jr., gifted writer, eloquent speaker, esteemed professor, Georgia state senator, nominee for U.S. Vice President, revered civil rights leader, champion for marriage equality and well beloved NAACP Chairman Emeritus. We extend our heartfelt sympathies and soul deep prayers to his family. This is a moment of incalculable loss in a trying hour of innumerable civil right challenges. The life and legacy, indeed the eloquence of Julian Bond’s example, yet speak to the present and future of the NAACP.” Bond graduated from Morehouse and helped found

the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). He was the organization’s president from 1971 to 1979. He was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1965. White members of the House refused to seat him because of his opposition to the Vietnam War. In 1966, the United States Supreme Court ruled that the House had denied Bond his freedom of speech and had to seat him. From 1965 to 1975, he served in the Georgia House and served six terms in the Georgia Senate from 1975 to 1986. In the 1980s and ‘90s, Bond taught at several universities, including American, Drexel, Williams, the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard universities and the University of Virginia. The HRC also paid tribute to him: “Very few throughout human history have embodied the ideals of honor, dignity,

courage, and friendship like Julian Bond. Quite simply, this nation and this world are far better because of his life and commitment to equality for all people,” HRC President Chad Griffin said. “Future generations will look back on his life and legacy and see a warrior for good who helped conquer hate in the name of love. I will greatly miss my friend and my hero, Julian Bond.” In March 2009, he stated: “So it does not matter the rationale – religious, cultural, pseudo-scientific – no people of goodwill should oppose marriage equality… Gay and lesbian rights are not special rights in any way. It isn’t ‘special’ to be free from discrimination. It is an ordinary, universal entitlement of citizenship.” – MKB (eile.ie 17th August 2015)

“So it does not matter the rationale – religious, cultural, pseudo-scientific – no people of goodwill should oppose marriage equality… Gay and lesbian rights are not special rights in any way. It isn’t ‘special’ to be free from discrimination. It is an ordinary, universal entitlement of citizenship.” EILE Magazine 47

Rugby Union: Newly Out Sam Stanley Still Shown Support From Fans & Clubs Alike Messages of support are still rolling in for Sam Stanley, the British rugby union player who came out as gay on Sunday last (30th August) giving an interview to the Sunday Times. Stanley told The Sunday Times that he was 10 or 11 when he first realised he was different to his friends, and later, he didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to accept it. He tweeted on Sunday: Emotional day for me! Love to everyone for the support. Especially my best friend @RemiJG who has been a great help & my rock @lrh_hicks Stanley, England Sevens International, is the first British rugby union professional to come out as gay, and the club he is playing for at the moment, the Ealing Trailfinders, have tweeted their support for the player: Proud and honoured to have @Stanley_13 as part of our club #ShoulderToShoulder And from Motu Matuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;u: RESPECT @Stanley_13 for coming out we are right behind you brother we stand together as rugby players and as a brotherhood @mj_stanley With Will Carling tweeting: Sad that it is still seen as newsworthy but more than anything hope @stanley_ 13 gets same friendship, support & joy from rugby community There were many more messages of support which should encourage other sportsman to take the courageous step and come out as gay in a traditionally macho environment. -MKB (eile.ie 1st September 2015)

48 EILE Magazine

Rugby Union player, Sam Stanley

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sad that it is still seen as newsworthy but more than anything hope @stanley_13 gets same friendship, support & joy from rugby communityâ&#x20AC;? - Will Carling EILE Magazine 49

US: Michael Sam, First Openly Gay Player, Leaving The Game?

Michael Sam appears to be finished with football, in his words “stepping away from the game”. He tweeted his decision and wrote on his facebook page: “The last 12 months have been very difficult for 50 EILE Magazine

me to the point where I became concerned with my own mental health. Because of this, I am going to step away from the game at this time. I thank the Alouettes for this opportunity and hope to be back on the field some day soon. Thank you all for your understanding and support”. On Friday last (14th) he announced on social

media that he was to stop playing for the Montreal Alouettes, citing mental health as his reason for the decision. Sam was a former SEC defensive player of the year, and was the first openly gay player in the NFL, when drafted by the St Louis Rams in 2014. However the Rams subsequently let him go, and after some tense times, the Dallas Cowboys

took him on. He was on the practice squad for the Dallas Cowboys, but they let him go in October of 2014. He has only played one game for the Montreal Alouettes, his debut game on August 7th, and didn’t tackle during the game, according to reports. He had signed a two-year contract with Montreal in the Canadian Football League. He then missed two weeks of training camp, and was suspended in June. On August 3rd last, he wrote on facebook that he was so proud of his brother, who had signed with the Kansas City Chiefs.

He told him to “Keep working hard bro and stay motivated”. The Alouettes released the following statement regarding Sam’s departure: “The Montreal Alouettes announced on Friday that international defensive end Michael Sam has left the team for personal reasons. Michael Sam issued the following statement: “The last 12 months have been very difficult for me to the point where I became concerned with my own mental health. Because of this I am going to step away from the game at this time. I thank the Alouettes for this opportunity and hope to be back on the field soon. Thank you all for your understanding and support.” As is the case in these type of situations, he has been placed on the team’s suspended list. – MKB (eile.ie 16th August 2015)

EILE Magazine 51

Spain: Injuries As Gay Couple Attacked

A gay man sustained injuries as he tried to defend his partner against an attack in Almeria, Spain. The man’s injuries included a broken collarbone, arm, and tooth, in a homophobic attack, which one witness described as coming from

52 EILE Magazine

youths looking like “neonazis”, as the couple were attacked from behind. The attack happened during the 2015 Feria (funfair) in Almeria, as the couple walked handin-hand near the LGBT Centre.

need for more respect for diversity, as recent cases had received derisory sentences for homophobic or transphobic attacks, and better laws are needed to be real and effective against these crimes. The injured man received surgery at the Torrecárdenas Hospital after the attack.

One of the victims (26) identified as JJ, works as a volunteer at the local LGBT association (Colega – MKB Almeria) and the president of the association, Antonio (eile.ie 29th August 2015) Ferre, has strongly condemned the attack, stating that they will work with the police to identify the attackers. He also said that this shows there is a

UK: Married Rugby League Player, Hirst, Comes Out As Gay British Rugby player, Keegan Hirst, prop for the Batley Bulldogs, is the first professional player in Rugby League to come out as gay. 6’4″ Hirst, 27, married with two children, is the team captain of the Batley Bulldogs, of West Yorkshire, and is amazed at the support he has received after his announcement, being cheered loudly as he left the stadium, even though his team had lost to rivals Dewsbury Rams.

He Tweeted: I’d just like to say a big thankyou to everybody who’s taken the time to send all these best wishes.It’s very humbling and much appreciated. Also I’m genuinely humbled by all the great messages today from people and through social media. It’s been fantastic. Thank you all so much Among many others, Gay Rugby Clubs tweeted their support:

being an inspiration to those coming out! Gareth Thomas also tweeted his support for Hirst: I have given my support to @KeeganHirst days http://ago.Today is about him playing the game that defines who he is.#proud Appropriately, the match was played on’ pink weekend’ when the club raises money for Breast Cancer awareness, and the team plays in pink.

@KeeganHirst you have the support of thousands of #gayrugby guys around -MKB the world! Thank you for (eile.ie 17th August 2015)

EILE Magazine 53

Australia: Gay Parenting Film “Gayby Baby” banned from NSW public schools by Education Minister

In Australia, the NSW Education Minister, Adrian Piccoli, has banned every public school in the state from screening a documentary about children with gay parents during school hours, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. The film, “Gayby Baby”, follows the lives of four kids – Gus, Ebony, Matt and Graham – whose parents all happen to be gay. As they each wrestle with the onset of puberty, the outside world wrestles with the issue of

54 EILE Magazine

marriage equality, and whether or not kids of same-sex families are at risk. Read more: http://www.smh. com.au/national/education/nsweducation-minister-bans-school-fromscreening-gay-film-20150825-gj7sid. html#ixzz3kQurLj6S The film is due to be released in Australian cinemas on September 3rd. -MKB (eile.ie 1st September, 2015)

EILE Magazine 55

‘Miss You Already’ Special Fundraising Preview Screening For Irish Cancer Society On September 21st, Entertainment One will hold a very special charity fundraising preview screening of Miss You Already, starring Drew Barrymore and Toni Collette, in the Light House Cinema, Dublin, with all profits going to benefit the Irish Cancer Society’s Paint it Pink campaign. The event will begin at 6pm and promises to be a wonderful ladies’ evening out with a West Coast Cooler reception beforehand, and goodie bags for everyone courtesy of Boots. There will be lots more surprises on the evening, so make sure you don’t miss out on this

56 EILE Magazine

opportunity to see the film before it opens in cinemas on September 25th. Guests are reminded to drink alcohol responsibly. Tickets can be purchased from https:// missyoualready. eventbrite.ie and cost €25 per ticket, including goodie bag and prescreening reception, a special ‘best friends’ double ticket early bird offer is available for €45. The event is for over 18’s only. For more information on the work of the Irish Cancer Society, please visit www.cancer.ie . This event leads into breast cancer awareness month in October, and is a timely opportunity to contribute to the valuable work of the Irish Cancer Society during their Paint it Pink

campaign, all profits from the screening will go directly to the charity. From director Catherine Hardwicke (Twilight, Thirteen), starring Drew Barrymore (Charlie’s Angels, The Wedding Singer) and Toni Collette (Little Miss Sunshine, About A Boy) comes an honest and powerful story following two best friends through the highs and lows of life. They say opposites attract. Milly (Toni Collette) is the woman who has everything: a successful career; a rockstar husband and two beautiful children. Her best friend is Jess (Drew Barrymore), she works in a community garden; lives in a boathouse with her boyfriend Jago and desperately wants a baby.

Toni Collette (left) and Drew Barrymore

Friends since childhood Jess and Milly can’t remember a time they didn’t share everything- secrets, clothes, even boyfriends, their differences are the glue that binds them together. That is until Milly is hit with the life changing news that she has breast cancer, and needs Jess’s support more than ever. As Jess tries to balance her own life as well as being there for Milly, it is only a matter of time before the pressure on their bond takes its toll. A powerful story for every modern woman, Miss You Already charts the obstacles life throws in our path and celebrates the force of true friendship that cannot be broken, even in life’s toughest moments.

The Lighthouse Cinema, Dublin, September 21st, 6 pm

EILE Magazine 57

Globally-Acclaimed Alt Jazz Multimedia Legend Plays Debut Dublin Show With generous support from the Goethe Institute, Concrete Soup presents duo, ALFRED 23 HARTH and KAZUHISA UCHIHASHI, in their first ever Irish performance. The legendary Harth has been an integral component of the international free jazz and improvised music scene, since he released Just Music’s eponymous debut on ECM Records back in 1969.

WIlliam Burroughs, Chris Cutler, Otomo Yoshihide, Maggie Nichols, Barre Philips, Peter Brotzmann, Sonny Sharrock, Perry Robinson, Lindsay Cooper, Fred Hopkins, Wilbur Morris and Carl Stone.

Always challenging generic parameters, Alfred (video below) has performed and recorded Punk Jazz, Free Jazz, ballet and dance soundtracks, electronic music and abstract sound art. In varying multimediatic capacities he has collaborated with innumerable luminaries, including John Zorn,

Details:

58 EILE Magazine

Kazuhisa Uchihashi plays improvised electric guitar and Daxophone. He has collaborated with Fred Frith, Tom Cora, Guru Guru, Steve Beresford, Charles Hayward, Eugene Chadborne, Christian Marclay and Mark Feldman among others. He has been conducting his improvised rock group Altered States for 19 years and also plays with Otomo Yoshihide’s group Ground Zero. Together the duo will perform upstairs at Yamamori Tengu on Saturday October 17th with support from local free improvisers Gavin Prior and ¡NO! The incomparable Djackulate will then take the helm for a post-show late night DJ set.

Alfred 23 Harth & Kazuhisa Uchihashi/¡NO!/Gavin Prior Yamamori Tengu (Tengu Izakaya), 38/39 Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1

Saturday 17th October Doors 8pm Admission 12â&#x201A;Ź more: https://www.facebook.com/events/1490193361274384/ NO! are a para-psych improv group based in Dublin. They curate Concrete Soup, the only improv music residency in the city. Gavin Prior is a mainstay of the Irish experimental and underground scene. He has toured internationally and collaborated broadly. He is resident in Dublin.

EILE Magazine 59

The New White Sage Kassetten Stimme Released September 25 2015

Little Gem is now open at The Grand Social, Liffey Street, Dublin 1 60 EILE Magazine

New Release on Little Gem Records: White Sage – Kassetten Stimme (Cassettes Agree) Little Gem is proud to present the new WHITE SAGE. Following the successful debut EP ‘Way Beyond Our Means’ (2015) this is the first piece taken from the forthcoming White Sage LP. Kassetten Stimme (Cassettes Agree) is a fresh & fervent slice of rhythmic electronic pop.

Gabor Maté, Kassetten Stimme is recommended for repeat listens.

Mixed Tape

“wonderful, warm fuzzy distortion work around that White Sage – tight drum loop, the Kassetten Stimme melodies drifting Mastered by Stephen off at points before Quinn coming back on Produced by Andy point” – BBC Walsh Little gem records LGR0012 is now open at the Little Gem Records Grand Social, Liffey 2015 Street, Dublin 1

Available on limited edition cassette / iTunes / Spotify / All online retailers Friday September 25 Citing influence from 2015 Cluster, Harmonia Preview Available & NEU!, the music Here – incorporates https:// syncopating beats soundcloud.com/ with light as air littlegemrecords/ flying bass lines white-sage& vintage analog kassetten-stimme/ssynths. Fj64y Containing voice samples from a “a record with a discussion with defined textural Canadian Physicist depth” – The Last

Specialising in new music from independent artists and labels, the shop stocks the best in independent releases from all over the world on vinyl, cassette, compact disc, little gem players, tangible & intangible goods. We support musicians & artists by helping to share, promote and sell their works. EILE Magazine 61

Pierce Brosnan Would Support Gay James Bond Actor Pierce Brosnan

In an interview with Details men’s magazine, Pierce Brosnan has stated his support for a possible future gay James Bond, and his support for a black Bond, possibly black actor, Idris Elba. When asked if he ‘saw legalised gay marriage coming’ in Ireland, 62year-old Brosnan replied: “I never thought in a million years, but hallelujah! Enough of the shaming. It’s a great

62 EILE Magazine

indication of the forwardthinking of a nation that’s been so mangled by religion”. And when asked if he could picture a gay 007, he answered: “Sure. Why not? [Pauses thoughtfully] Actually, I don’t know how it would work. I don’t think Barbara [Broccoli, the James Bond producer] would allow a gay Bond to happen in her lifetime. But it would certainly make for interesting viewing. Let’s start with a great black actor being James Bond. Idris Elba certainly has the physicality, the charisma, the presence. But I think Daniel [Craig] will be

there for a while yet”. The actor also spoke about how he turned down Batman, and his recent housefire where he lost many cherished possessions, including his Aston Martin. However, he was very philosophical about the loss, stating: “You take the blow and move on, give thanks you’re alive”. Brosnan’s latest action movie is called “No Escape”, where he plays mysterious government operative, Hammond. –MKB (eile.ie 28th August 2015) Lolita Goth

Ghosthunters - On Icy Trails (featuring Amy Huberman) in Irish Cinemas 2nd October Wildcard Distribution is delighted to announce the Irish cinema release of the family movie, “Ghosthunters – On Icy Trails”, on Friday October 2nd.

that Hugo is not only completely harmless, but also desperately needs his help. Hugo cannot go back to his haunted house, because a dangerous AIG, an Ancient Ice Ghost, has moved in and is spreading an arctic cold over the entire town in the middle of summer.

Based on the bestselling novel “Ghosthunters and the Incredibly Revolting Ghost” by Cornelia Funke, “Ghosthunters – On Icy Trails”, which features Amy Huberman, is a thrilling family feature that is the perfect kick start to the spooky Hallowe’en season.

Tom and Hugo go to professional ghost-hunter Hetty Cuminseed, who doesn’t like children or ghosts very much, and who just lost her job at the CGI, the Central Ghosthunting Institute. Hetty teaches Tom and Hugo the basics of ghost-hunting and the three become an unusual team: only with friendship, courage and self-confidence can they overcome their adversary and save the town from the AIG.

Directed by Tobi Baumann and starring Anke Engelke, Milo Parker the film follows a young boy Tom who discovers an ASG, an Averagely Spooky Ghost called Hugo in his cellar. He soon realizes

was provided by the Irish post production company EGG and the film was produced by Ripple World Pictures (Parked, Earthbound) in Ireland in co-production with Lucky Bird Pictures, Warner Bros. Film Productions Germany, Lotus-Film, Immer Wieder Gerne Film and Satel Film. The film is also supported by Bórd Scannán Na h-Eireann (Irish Film Board). A supernatural spectacular which promises lots of family fun and plenty of slimey spooks, Ghosthunters – On Icy Trails will be haunting cinemas across Ireland from Friday, October 2nd, cert PG (99 mins). In Irish Cinemas October 2nd!

All the slime, animation and visual FX for the film EILE Magazine 63

Marc Forster: Thinks Gay James Bond Should Be A Spinoff, Rather Than Original

Marc Forster, who directed Bond movie, Quantum of Solace, has said he does not think a gay James Bond would work. The 45-year-old director feels he would not like to see a gay version of

64 EILE Magazine

Bond, stating: “I think with the history of Bond, and how it is, it feels like it’s more of a spin-off in that case than the original Bond. I think there’s a traditional…you know, how Ian Fleming saw the books, and I think you should honour Ian Fleming’s vision for Bond….try and make it the interpretation of the original author”. This was contrary to

Marc Forster

what Bond actor, Pierce Brosnan, had stated several days ago, when he said he would support a gay Bond, and also suggested Idris Elba as a possible black Bond, as reported in EILE here: http://eile. ie/2015/08/28/piercebrosnan-would-supportgay-bond/ -MKB (eile.ie 6th September 2015)

China: Permission For Release of First Film With Gay Characters

Left to Right: Jeremie Elkaim and Han Geng

“Seek McCartney”, a film by Chinese director, Wang Chao, has been given the goahead by censors for release to Chinese cinemas, after a year of consideration.

Wang Chao had taken to the Chinese form of Twitter, Weibo, to confirm that the film, which is a co-production between the Chinese and French, and is about a Chinese/ French gay couple’s secret relationship, has been given the green light. Wang tweeted: “This is a small step for the film department, and a big step for members of the film industry”.

What makes this release special is that it is the first film with gay principal characters to be given such However, in a country where LGBT groups are permission in China. still unable to register as NGO’s, this does not The film stars Han Geng necessarily mean that and French actor Jeremie things are loosening up for Elkaim. the LGBT community, in

China, as some say it still depends on the individual censor. Up to now, films with LGBT people in minor roles were given permission for release, but none where the plot was about a gay couple as the main story. Although China decriminalised homosexuality in 1997, LGBT people who come out may still be pressured into conversion therapy, or face discrimination from family and friends. – MKB (eile.ie 4th September 2015)

EILE Magazine 65

President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins

Historic Day As President Higgins Signs Marriage Equality Into Law

President Michael D. Higgins signed the 34th Amendment to the Constitution (Marriage Equality) Act yesterday evening (29th) meaning equal marriage is now legal in Ireland. GLEN (The Gay & Lesbian Equality Network) have expressed their delight at the news. Kieran Rose, Chair of GLEN welcomed the news: “This is a historic moment for LGBT people and everyone in Ireland. After the joyful scenes that 66 EILE Magazine

followed the resounding Yes vote [62%] last May, it is wonderful that President Higgins has signed the Act and made the result official.” “We look forward to the Oireachtas passing the necessary enabling legislation to allow the first civil marriages for lesbian and gay people to take place as soon as it returns. As a nation, all of us can now look forward to the civil marriages that so many lesbian and gay people, their family members and friends have long awaited” Rose

concluded. Twitter was very active after the news, and the Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald also tweeted her reaction: ‘Great and welcome news on historic day which sees the enactment of the constitutional wording as approved by the people.’ @ FitzgeraldFrncs Minister @FitzgeraldFrncs welcomes signature by the President of the Thirty Fourth Amendment to the Constitution #MarriageEquality Act. (eile.ie 30th August 2015)

Mark Kelly, Executive Director ICCL

ICCL: Marriage Equality Act a “vindication of the will of voters” Ireland’s human rights watchdog, the Irish Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL) has warmly welcomed the signature on Saturday (29 August) of the Thirty-fourth Amendment of the Constitution (Marriage Equality) Act 2015 by the President of Ireland.

Together with colleagues from its partner organisations, the Gay & Lesbian Equality Network (GLEN) and Marriage Equality, the ICCL led the winning YesEquality2015 referendum campaign. ICCL Executive Director Mr Mark Kelly said on Saturday: “The President’s decision today to sign into law the amendment of the Constitution opening full civil marriage to same sex

couples is a vindication of the clearly-expressed wish of more than 1.2 million voters to live in a more equal Ireland. The ICCL warmly welcomes the fact that, following the recent dismissal by the Court of Appeal of spurious legal challenges to the landslide referendum result, marriage equality shall at last be the law of the land.” (eile.ie 31st August 2015)

EILE Magazine 67

Ireland:

TENI - Trans People Finally Exist in the Eyes of the State Last Tuesday, September 7, marked the first day that trans people can apply to be legally recognised in their true gender. The Department of Social Protection published the application form and have begun accepting applications. Speaking at a press conference alongside Tánaiste Burton, Minister Humphreys and Dr Lydia Foy, TENI Chief Executive Broden Giambrone said: “Today is an incredible day and a historic moment for the trans community in Ireland. This is the first day we will be seen as who we truly are. Trans people finally exist in the eyes of

68 EILE Magazine

the State.” “Today also marks the end of Dr Lydia Foy’s twenty-two year journey to be legally recognised. I want to commend her courage and tenacity,” said Giambrone. “TENI would also like to thank Tánaiste Burton and Minister Humphreys for their leadership and vision. This legislation is compassionate, progressive and affirms our human rights. We must also thank all of our allies in the Dáil and Seanad for their support and hard work to get this legislation passed.” Ireland is now a global leader in trans rights and is one of just five countries in the world that has legislation based on self-determination. This means that there is no requirement for

medical experts, medical treatments or diagnosis of a mental disorder in order for individuals who are 18 years of age or older to be legally recognised. “Self-determination is critical to trans people and we must be able to affirm our own identities and have our rights vindicated,” continued Giambrone. “As a trans person, I believe this legislation marks an incredible shift in Irish society and that it will go a long way in protecting and honouring trans identities.” “There is still more work to be done to ensure that young, intersex and nonbinary people will also be afforded rights. TENI commits to vigorously advocating for those who need to be included in

this Act. However, today we have taken a massive leap forward. This is a turning point for trans rights in Ireland and I hope this leads to further positive changes for our community,” concluded Giambrone. Trans people reflected on what the passage legislation meant to them: “Today marks the start of the rest of my life, I am having my deepest childhood dream realised. No legislative change could ever happen in the future that could effect me more than the one that

was passed. Today my identity has been finally recognised as authentic by the state,” said Sam Blanckensee, 21, trans guy. “I am so proud of my country today! This legislation is something that will make an enormous difference to my life. Finally I will be able to have matching identity documents and I will be spared the discomfort and embarrassment of having to out myself as trans in public settings. So many times in my life I have felt like I had to ask for permission to exist but that will no longer be the case,” said

Ben Power, 34, trans man. “The Gender Recognition Act is an incredibly important moment for Ireland’s transgender community. Despite some issues this Act including selfdetermination will change many lives and means a lot. It’s been fantastic to help work towards this and I can’t wait to continue the fight towards recognition for those under 18 and non-binary people,” said Toryn Glavin, 21, trans. (eile.ie 9th Septemer 2015)

EILE Magazine 69

Broden Giambrone

TENI Welcomes Commencement of the Gender Recognition Act 2015 Yesterday (Friday 4th September), TENI warmly welcomed the announcement that the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton, had signed the Commencement Order for the Gender Recognition Act 2015. This will enable trans people to be formally recognised in their preferred gender for all purposes by the Irish State for the first time. As of Tuesday 8th September trans people will be able to apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate from the Department of Social Protection and subsequently obtain a new birth certificate. “The wait for legal recognition is finally over. The practical and symbolic importance of being recognised in the eyes of the State cannot be underestimated. This is a turning point for trans rights in Ireland and I hope this leads to further positive changes for our community,” said TENI Chief Executive 70 EILE Magazine

Broden Giambrone. “This is also the end of a very long journey for Dr Lydia Foy who will soon have her correct birth certificate. All trans people, regardless of marital status, will be able to apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate. The Tánaiste stated yesterday that the requirement to be single (so-called ‘forced divorce’ clause) would not be commenced in the legislation: Giambrone commented: “We warmly welcome the Tánaiste’s remarks and are delighted that trans people who are married or in civil partnerships will be able to apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate. Married trans people will no longer be forced to choose between their families and their right to be legally recognised. This is a great day for families in Ireland.” TENI will continue to advocate for the meaningful inclusion of young, intersex and non-

binary people in the Gender Recognition Act. TENI will also have a step-by-step guide to applying for a Gender Recognition Certificate on our website (www.teni.ie) next week. The application form for the Gender Recognition Certificate will be available on the Department’s website (www.welfare.ie) on Tuesday 8th September with further background information. The application form can also be obtained through the post by contacting Client Identity Services, Department of Social Protection, Shannon Lodge, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim, N41 KD81 or by phone at 071 9672659. Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) seeks to improve conditions and advance the rights and equality of trans people and their families. www.teni.ie / 01 873 3575. (eile.ie 5th September 2015)

Design: Anthony Zagariko, exclusively for EILE Magazine

EILE Magazine 71

TĂĄnaiste Joan Burton

The following is a statement from the TĂĄnaiste, Joan Burton, issued after signing the Commencement Order for the Gender Recognition Act 2015: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have today (Friday 4th September) signed the Commencement Order for the Gender Recognition Act 2015, which will enable transgender people to be formally recognised in their preferred gender for all purposes by the State for the first time. 72 EILE Magazine

I am delighted to announce that from Tuesday next 8th September, it will be open to any transgender person to apply for a Gender Recognition Certificate from my Department and subsequently to obtain a new birth certificate which reflects their preferred gender. This marks a hugely significant and historic day for the transgender community, for their families, friends and, indeed, for all of Irish society. I am particularly happy that we are in a position to immediately provide this

recognition to transgender people regardless of their marital status. The Commencement Order which I have signed specifically excludes those elements of the legislation which required that applicants for gender recognition be single. I was able to do so because the President has very recently signed the results of the Marriage Equality Referendum into law. I would like to pay tribute to all those who had been involved in bringing this important piece of legislation into effect. I am thinking today of people like Dr.

Tánaiste Joan Burton: “Gender Recognition Act Comes Into Force”

Lydia Foy and others like her within the transgender community who have fought tenaciously to have their rights to gender recognition vindicated. I am proud that that this Government has been able finally to respond to the needs of this community. I am proud also that the legislation is amongst the most progressive in the world in this area. I want to acknowledge the positive contribution made by Deputies and Senators from across the political spectrum in the course of the legislative process. Equally, I would like to thank the various representative organisations such as TENI who have been deeply engaged in this area and those individuals and organisations within the medical world who have also contributed significantly in bringing us to this point.

of State Kevin Humphreys for the important role he played in bringing this legislation through the Oireachtas. The application form for the Gender Recognition Certificate will be available for download from the Department’s website (www.welfare. ie) from Tuesday, 8th September together with further background information. The application form can also be obtained through the post by contacting Client Identity Services, Department of Social Protection, Shannon Lodge, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim, N41 KD81 or by phone at 071 9672659″.

I would like especially to thank Minister

EILE Magazine 73

Federation of Gay Games Medal of Honour Legacy Award to Ireland Federation honours historic national referendum and prepares for Annual General Assembly in Limerick The Federation of Gay Games (FGG) board of directors announces 2015 Medal of Honour Legacy Award to “The People of the Republic of Ireland” to commemorate the first nation to approve Marriage Equality by National Referendum. The public vote took place 23 May 2015 and over 60 percent voted in favour of legalizing same-sex marriage.

74 EILE Magazine

Legacy Awards honour outstanding individuals and institutions whose work contributes to the mission and values of the FGG. Along with the Medal of Honour Legacy Award, the FGG will announce other esteemed annual Legacy Awards as part of the FGG’s Annual General Assembly (AGA) 16-18 October 2015 in Limerick, Ireland. The FGG presents Legacy Awards to recognize the extraordinary contributions of those who ensure the success of the Gay Games, who promote shared values, and who contribute to the community. The AGA brings together delegates from its full members, associate

members and board members to discuss the activities of the past year, plan future activities and elect the FGG board members for the next year. The Board of Directors for Paris 2018, host city of Gay Games 10, will also be present to discuss their plans for the 2018 event. All AGA attendees are encouraged to book travel and accommodations for the October 2015 event. Complete 2015 AGA information is available at https://gaygames.org. (eile.ie 8th September 2015)

Federation honours historic national referendum and prepares for Annual General Assembly in Limerick

EILE Magazine 75

Australia: Poll Shows Coalition Isolated From Majority (69%) On Marriage Equality, 53% Support Among Coalition Voters

In Australia, marriage equality advocates have welcomed a new Fairfax/Ipsos marriage equality poll showing 69% support nationally, including 53% support among Coalition voters. Australian Marriage Equality national director, Rodney Croome, said, “This poll shows the Coalition’s decision to block a free vote has isolated it from the

76 EILE Magazine

majority of Australians who value fairness, love, and equality” “With a majority of Coalition supporters backing reform, the poll shows the Coalition won’t lose votes if it allows love to win.” “This poll was conducted after the government tried to quash marriage equality, proving Australians saw through the trickery and are undeterred in their support for reform.” “This is a wake up call for the government ahead

of the expected Cabinet debate on marriage equality. It’s time for the Coalition to show more respect for the majority of Australians.” “The result also bolsters our confidence that if a fairly-framed plebiscite is held at the election, marriage equality will prevail.” The poll showed majority support for marriage equality in every major demographic. (eile.ie 20th August 2015)

Australia: Senate Inquiry On Marriage Equality The Australian Senate is now conducting an inquiry into the best path to marriage equality for the country. The options for a public vote are a plebiscite to indicate the public’s view on the issue, or a referendum to change the Constitution. Australian Marriage Equality would like marriage equality to be achieved through a free vote in parliament, but this has been blocked by the Government. Now AME are trying to make sure any public vote on the issue isn’t hijacked by opponents of reform in the Government. AME’s strategic priorities have been to stop a constitutional referendum on marriage equality, as well as a plebiscite on Prime Minister Tony Abbott’s terms.

$120 million, and has the potential to enshrine discrimination against same-sex couples in the constitution. The Prime Minister has the power to determine the question, process and timing of a plebiscite. AME’s work appears to have been successful, with reports that the Australian Prime Minister, Tony Abbott, has ruled out a referendum. AME have also secured a Senate inquiry into a public vote on marriage equality, to ensure any plebiscite has a question that is balanced, and rules that are fair. The LGBT group are urging people to make their views known to the Inquiry. Despite some recent setbacks for AME, marriage equality is gathering momentum in Australia. (eile.ie 25th August 2015)

A referendum would cost the country EILE Magazine 77

GFEST 2015

London LGBTQI cross-arts festival GFEST announces 2015 dates GFEST – Gaywise FESTival, recognised as London LGBTQI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex) cross-arts annual event in November has announced 2015 dates: Monday 9th to Friday the 20 November. GFEST 2015 theme is ‘(Complacent Present) …Fragile Future?’ GFEST 2015 visual arts exhibition will explore Asian identities under the theme: Asian Future. The films are planned under the theme ‘Cinema Futura’, while the performance events will be falling under ‘Tonal Future’. The festival event in London’s LGBT calendar consists of visual arts exhibition, film screenings, performances and talks and debate focusing on the works of young and established artists and practitioners. The festival is organised by arts charity Wise Thoughts and is now in its 8th year.

78 EILE Magazine

Catherine West, the MP for Hornsey & Wood Green where Wise Thoughts is based, said in her message of support: “I am delighted to offer my support to this year’s GFEST, celebrating some of the brightest and best talent in the LGBTQI community here and abroad. I am looking forward to coming along to one of the events in my constituency and send my best wishes to everyone taking part

this year and to Wise Thoughts for organising such a fantastic diverse programme” GFEST artistic director Niranjan Kamatkar said: “we are very pleased to receive the support of our local MP and we continue to profile LGBT art works due to the support of eminent people, artists and audiences. Irrespective of significant funding challenges, we are confident that we can

deliver the full festival programme this year.” GFEST 2015 programme advisors include Anna McNay, Gulliver Ralston, Michael Petry, Simon Tarrant, Subodh Rathod and Lois Keidan and the artistic director is Niranjan Kamatkar. GFEST 2015 programme advisors names are also announced on the festival’s website: http:// www.gaywisefestival.org. uk/

EILE Magazine 79

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

80 EILE Magazine

EILE Magazine 81

Winter Pride Maspalomas presents

The Three Degrees at the Yumbo Centrum in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria, known for their hits “When Will I See You Again” and ” Dirty Ol´Man” for a 45 minute show on Saturday 14th of November, 2015 Admission Free!

82 EILE Magazine

Maspalomas Winter Pride 2015 - 9 to 15 November The second edition of Winter Pride Maspalomas expects 25.000 visitors to the event which distinguishes itself by offering high quality entertainment. The programme for 2015 will be:

Wed 11: Pride Walk and Schlager Fest (German Carnaval) Thu 12: Gran Canaria Big Band Swing Night Fri 13: Hi-NRG Night (with the all star artists of the 80s) Sat 14: Dream Night /with international artists) Sun 15: Closing Event

The detailed programme at winterpridemaspalomas.com website. The professional and flawless organisation of the first edition resulted in a 100% positive feedback from local governments, sponsors and above all the public. Maspalomas is proud to add another great event to their calendar and offer an entertaining programme to the thousands of visitors that visit the tropical island during the â&#x20AC;&#x153;German Carnavalâ&#x20AC;? on the 11th of November. It is the mission of ProGay to promote Maspalomas as a gay friendly destination and has committed itself to support local charity organisations like ACES, the local AIDS foundation.

EILE Magazine 83

La Voix – Live on Stage at Winter Pride Maspalomas 2015! LA VOIX – Live on stage Thursday, 12 November, 2015 La Voix is a woman with one mission: to bring back glamour, class and sophistication, not to mention humour, to the stage and screen! La Voix was semi-Finalist of Britain’s Got Talent and second place in Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK! She has won many prestigious awards, which include Best drag act at the London Cabaret awards, Winner of Drag Idol, and most recently the Gold award winner for Best drag act at the Boys Scene Awards. La Voix is live on stage at Winter Pride Maspalomas with the Gran Canaria Big Band!

http://www.winterpridemaspalomas.com/

84 EILE Magazine

EILE Magazine 85

Australia: New Prime Minister Supports Marriage Equalilty But Favours Plebiscite Overnight Malcolm Turnbull was elected Prime Ministerof Australia, and for the first time in Australia’s history, they have both a Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition who support marriage equality.