01/22/16, Vol. 6 Issue 23

S t. L u k e ’ s We l c o m e s Yo u Worship with Us Sundays at 8 a.m. | 9 a.m. | 11:15 a.m.

Christian Education for all ages at 10:15 a.m.

Our nursery opens at 8:40 a.m.

We are a diverse bunch!

We come from every corner of the metro area to be together in the heart of midtown Atlanta: more than 100 zip codes!

The Rev. Dan Matthews, Jr. Rector

We are young and old; married and single; black and white; straight and gay.

Our people have interesting and very different stories to share.

At St. Luke’s and seek to understand and celebrate these differences. As individuals, we struggle for answers to life’s difficult questions.

We choose this church that encourages us to explore scripture, consider tradition and context, and use reason and personal experience to discern God’s unique call in our lives.

St. Luke’s is a church of doers: feeding the hungry, tending the sick, studying God’s word. And simply coming together for a fun social event.

Here we say, “Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, St. Luke’s welcomes you.” And we mean it!

We encourage you to explore St. Luke’s to see if this is a place where God is calling you.

435 Peachtree Street NE 404-873-7600 | StLukesAtlanta.org We’re just a few blocks south of North Avenue and have ample complimentary parking.

The Civic Center MARTA station is just a block from the church.

Visit our webpage to learn more or visit us on

GEORGIANEWS

Rustin/Lorde Breakfast draws hundreds in pivotal year Black Lives Matter, Trans Lives Matter, HIV, resiliency highlight annual MLK Day event

By DARIAN AARON and PATRICK SAUNDERS Black Lives Matter. Trans Lives Matter.

Troubling rates of new HIV infections. There has perhaps never been as important a time for Atlanta’s African-American LGBT community to come together to share testimonials, frustrations, aspirations and goals than now, and that’s exactly what happened on Jan. 18 at the 15th Annual Rustin/Lorde Breakfast.

Hundreds packed into downtown Atlanta’s Loudermilk Center for the event, which was started in 2002 by activists Darlene Hudson and Craig Washington to celebrate Bayard Rustin and Audre Lorde’s contributions to the black LGBT movement while also celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. on the national holiday set aside to remember the civil rights icon.

Rustin was a gay civil rights leader and chief organizer of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, while Lorde was a lesbian writer, poet and activist.

This year’s event managed to avoid the protest put on last year by members of Southerners On New Ground, who carried signs through the crowd to raise awareness about police brutality against black and brown people and to stress not only that “Black Lives Matter,” but also, “Black Trans Lives Matter” and “Black Queer Trans Womyn Matter.”

But that didn’t mean those movements weren’t discussed or recognized, as the topics came up throughout the morning and several in the audience were spotted wearing Black Lives Matter hoodies.

Spoken word vocal performance fires up crowd A spoken word and vocal performance popped up during the event—literally. The spoken word performers emerged from different areas of the room, their voices being heard by the crowd before they were seen.

Performers included Atlanta activist and HIV prevention counselor Anthony An-

The theme of this year’s Rustin/Lorde Breakfast was ‘Art Is Movement,’ and it included spoken word and vocal performances.

(Photos by Darian Aaron)

“Our collective stories of struggle and resiliency are the core foundation for the larger discussion of the value of black lives.”

—Social justice and HIV activist Devin Barrington-Ward toine, author Antron-Reshaud Olukayode and Larry Walker.

Antoine gave a passionate spoken word performance where he talked about his journey as a black, gay man. Lorde and Rustin had a helping hand in the performance as well, with Antoine citing famous quotes from both, including Lorde’s “Our visions begin with our desires” and Rustin’s “We need in every community a group of angelic troublemakers. Our power is in our ability to make things unworkable.”

Antoine’s performance climaxed with him finding his people and his will, saying, “Then, like a thunderous roar, an explosion occurs. Something gives. Either sink or swim and I want to live! I rise above this confusion turned anger turned rage turned violence turned pride. Self-pride. Giving praises to God who is no longer just your God but my God too. Giving praises to all my homosexual brothers and sisters who in many ways were my first love, who taught me how to really love. Giving praises to all of you, yes all of you that love and accept me, and yes I give praises to even those that hate and reject me. Why? Because all of you made me who I

am today—strong.”

He ended by imploring those in attendance to speak up about their Pride, “Because there are broad shoulders upon which we stand. The blueprint has been laid.”

Monica Raye Simpson then closed out by singing a soul-stirring rendition of Mahalia Jackson’s “Precious Lord.” It was a fitting moment considering the theme of this year’s breakfast, “Art Is Movement.”

Call to include everyone’s stories in community’s agenda Social justice and HIV activist Devin Barrington-Ward followed up with a speech that also referenced and quoted black leaders throughout history, including abolitionist and civil rights activist Frederick Douglass and poet Lucille Clifton.

He noted the high number of murders of transgender women last year, then expanded the tent to salute all women in the community, saying, “We owe it to our transgender sisters, femme-identified community members and our black cisgender women to acknowledge their resiliency, their struggle and the need for their political and policy

demands to be uplifted, supported and valued in our political discourse and the overall agenda of the black LGBTQ community.”

He also talked about black gay men and “the struggle of bearing the unjust burden of the HIV epidemic,” saying the high number of infections has less to do with personal behavior and more to do with homelessness, unemployment, poverty, unjust incarceration and less access to health care and HIV treatment.

Black Lives Matter also came up, with Barrington-Ward saying everyone’s stories need to be included in the community’s agenda.

“Our collective stories of struggle and resiliency are the core foundation for the larger discussion of the value of black lives. So when we are asking Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton, Jeb Bush and even Georgia’s own Governor Nathan Deal the value of black life to America, to Georgia and to Atlanta, we are asking those questions and making those demands with the overall narrative of all black life, because all black lives matter.”

The crowd then began to file out, with most headed for the King Day March, which included an LGBT contingent led by Rev. Duncan Teague.

4 News January 22, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

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Federal taxes and same-sex marriage: How should you file?

By MARGIE ARCHER, CRPS® ADPA® margie.archer@wellsfargoadvisors.com Vice President - Investment Officer and Portfolio Manager It’s official. Marriage equality is now the law of the land in all 50 states. In a historic decision on June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down state bans on same-sex marriage, resolving a civil rights debate that has raged for more than four decades. The decision grants LGBT couples the same rights as other couples with regard to health insurance, child custody, medical decision-making authority, and more. It also levels the tax-filing scenario for same-sex couples who choose to marry.

The new choices

In the past, same-sex married couples living in states that didn’t recognize their marriage had extra requirements when filing income tax returns. Typically, that meant filing federal tax returns as a married couple and state tax returns as single/unmarried individuals. That increased the time, effort, and expense of filing.

Now, those same couples can simply file as married, either jointly or separately, at both the federal and state level. But does simply checking a different box on your tax forms guarantee a better outcome? Not necessarily.

If you and your partner earn roughly the same amount of money, filing jointly could bump you into a higher tax bracket – a circumstance known as the marriage penalty. On the contrary, if one spouse earns little or no income, and the other is the primary wage earner, filing jointly may result in a marriage bonus. In other words, by tying the knot, you may wind up owing Uncle Sam less than if you remained single.

Domestic partnerships and civil unions

It’s important to keep in mind the Supreme Court’s recent ruling applies only to same-sex married couples, not to registered domestic partnerships or civil unions. Although a handful of states recognize domestic partnerships and civil unions, the IRS does not. So, while these designations may offer some of the same rights and responsibilities available to married couples, it’s only at a state level and on a state-by-state basis.

Tax benefits that apply to all

What’s become clear since the Supreme Court’s decision is same-sex married couples grappling with how to file their tax returns can’t count on a one-size-fits-all solution. However, here’s what you can count on: • The ability to transfer an unlimited amount of assets to your spouse, free from federal gift or estate taxes, either during life or at death.

• The right to leave your spouse property upon your death that doesn’t come with a heavy estate

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

tax bill due to the unlimited marital deduction.

• More tax-planning options upon inheriting your spouse’s retirement account.

• The right to open an Individual Retirement Account on your spouse’s earnings record, if you are unemployed.

Indeed, the tax benefits afforded to samesex spouses are finally on par with those of heterosexual spouses. If you’re already married or thinking of getting married, do take the time to talk with your tax advisor to see how your marital status might impact your income tax and your financial future as a married couple.

Timing your marriage to minimize taxes

Choosing a wedding date that accommodates family, friends, and employers — not to mention the church and reception hall — is a wedding planner’s greatest challenge. So should you also consider Uncle Sam when selecting a date?

Your tax filing status is determined on December 31 of each year. For tax purposes, that means even if you wait until the last day of the year to walk down the aisle, the IRS will consider you married for that entire year. If there is a notable disparity between your and your partner’s income, then getting married by December 31 could benefit your tax situation. However, if your combined income pushes you into a higher tax bracket, you may want to marry January 1 of the following year to avoid a negative impact on your current-year tax bill.

Income isn’t the only factor that influences whether marriage will result in a tax penalty or bonus. Answering questions such as who incurs deductible expenses, who can claim children as dependents, and what tax preferences you might qualify for can also help you gauge the potential effects of marriage on your tax situation—and enable you and your partner to determine the best time to exchange vows. * Wells Fargo Advisors does not provide legal or tax advice.

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GEORGIANEWS

Is the ‘Utah Compromise’ a way through for GA LGBT, faith communities?

2015 law added LGBT and religious protections; being considered as model for other states

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com Last March, a bill passed in the Utah state legislature that banned discrimination in employment and housing on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. But the bill exempted religious organizations, their affiliates and the Boy Scouts of America from that piece of the law, and added protections for employees who talk about religious or moral beliefs as long as the speech is reasonable and doesn’t reach the level of harassment.

The bill was called the Utah Nondiscrimination and Religious Freedom Act, but it quickly gained an alternate name throughout the nation—the “Utah Compromise.”

And it happened in a state where Republicans control both chambers of the legislature by a wide margin and occupy the governor’s mansion, and in a state where a sizable faith community routinely plays a dominant role in the political realm. Sound familiar?

At a time when the battle to pass a socalled “religious freedom” bill has entered its third year and newly proposed bills aiming to carve out religious exemptions at the expense of the LGBT community are popping up left and right, could the Utah Compromise clear a path through the rancor and give new protections to both the LGBT and faith communities in Georgia?

Stakeholders can’t think ‘in ways that cause collision’ Robin Wilson is a University of Illinois law professor who worked with the Utah legislature to help the Utah Compromise get passed, and now she’s been traveling the country spreading the good word about the bill.

She says she worked with both sides in Utah to get them to stop thinking “in ways that cause collision.” For instance, if officials were given the right to refuse to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples based on their religious beliefs, there had to be a mechanism in place that assured that somebody is there to issue the license so everybody has the ability

The Utah Compromise brought together the faith community and LGBT rights organizations in a state with similar political and religious circumstances as Georgia. (File photos)

to get married no matter where they live in the state. In other words, you don’t get the scene that took place in Rowan County in Kentucky last year, where a same-sex couple was repeatedly turned down for a license by the clerk-who-shall-not-be-named.

“I don’t think religious liberty and gay rights have to be intentioned,” Wilson tells Georgia Voice. “But it requires energy and effort and input from stakeholders from both sides and buy-ins, and that’s harder sometimes than just crushing the other guy.”

Georgia Prospers and the Mormon Church Wilson says she see believes there are times when the government “crushes religious people for no good reason” and doesn’t think bills like state Sen. Josh McKoon’s (R-Columbus) so-called “religious freedom” bill will give religious people a vehicle to discriminate since there are no statewide protections for LGBT people in place in Georgia anyway.

She hasn’t spoken to legislators in Georgia about the Utah Compromise, but she says the formation of coalitions like Georgia Prospers is a good start to the conversation.

The coalition unites corporations like Delta, Coca-Cola and Google with small businesses, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and hotel and tourism associations against laws that would discriminate against the LGBT community.

“When you get not just the big Fortune 500s but when you get the tourism bureau and mid-sized companies and small companies saying ‘this isn’t correct,’ I think you have the kind of counterweight that’s going to make things happen,” she says, adding, “Much in some ways as the Mormon Church serves in Utah itself, they’re a huge counterweight in that community. Well, so is business in Georgia.”

When told about the newly proposed and soon-to-be-proposed bills in Georgia like the Pastor’s Protection Act, plus a bill that would allow businesses to refuse service to samesex couples, and a state version of the First Amendment Defense Act which would protect local and state employees with religious objections to same-sex marriage, Wilson says the decks are stacked too high on one side.

“My basic position is that both sides have to take something off the table here.

Everything you’ve just described are one-sided deals. They’re deals that are talking only about the interests of religious people, and some of them are extremely broad,” she says.

Georgia Equality open to ‘appropriate’ religious exemptions Georgia Equality executive director Jeff Graham says that they “remain open to discussing appropriate religious exemptions” but that a big difference between Georgia and Utah is that due to the influence of the Mormon Church, Utah already had broader

religious exemptions on the books than most states or federal law.

“The basic principle to ask ourselves is whether or not members of the LGBT community should be treated differently than other groups that are currently protected under federal civil rights laws,” Graham says. “I would contend that there is no legitimate reason to create separate religious exemptions for the LGBT community. That is one of the major reasons that the national strategy has shifted from the Employment Nondiscrimination Act to the more comprehensive Equality Act.” “Furthermore, with legal precedent moving in the direction of recognizing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity as being similar to discrimination based on sex, to accept broader religious exemptions as a ‘compromise’ runs the risk of setting the movement for fairness and equality back.”

Perhaps tellingly, none of the Republican lawmakers we contacted for comment about this story responded by press time. Wilson remains optimistic.

“If it can happen in Utah, the single most conservative state in America, it can happen in Georgia,” she says. “But it’s going to require a coalition of stakeholders who want to see a good outcome and don’t see gay rights as being intentioned with religion. Somehow you’re going to have to take account of that and give those folks assurances that none of this is at their expense.”

6 News January 22, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

NEWSBRIEFS House bill to protect clergy from performing same-sex weddings Last summer, House Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) told fellow House Republicans that he wanted to adopt a pastor’s “Protection Act” that would ensure no faith leader could be forced to perform a same-sex wedding. On Jan. 13 he got his wish, as state Rep. Kevin Tanner (R-Dawsonville) introduced House Bill 757.

The only section raising eyebrows is Section 3, which says in part, “No religious organization shall be required to rent, lease, or otherwise grant permission for property to be used by another person for purposes which are objectionable to such religious organization.”

The bill is seen by many as an alternative to Josh McKoon’s so-called “religious freedom” bill, SB 129, which has proved far more controversial. Georgia Pol’s Jon Richards says a quick passage of the measure in the House is expected, although what happens to it in the Senate is more uncertain.

Anti-gay businesses get protections under newly proposed bill State Rep. Kevin Tanner (R-Dawsonville) has introduced House Bill 756, which would allow business owners to refuse service to same-sex couples.

The AJC reports: “Florists, bakers or any other private business owner could refuse service to gay couples getting married in Georgia, under legislation filed Wednesday (Jan. 13) that is likely to inflame the battle at the Capitol over religious freedom and gay rights.

House Bill 756 would allow business owners to cite religious beliefs in refusing goods or services for a ‘matrimonial ceremony’—a blunt assessment of conservatives’ outrage after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in June state prohibitions on same-sex marriage to be unconstitutional.

The bill represents the worst fears of gay rights advocates and others who have fought the last two years against other so-called ‘religious liberty legislation.’”

Openly gay man challenging Rep. Mable Thomas in GA race A third candidate has joined Rafer Johnson and Josh Noblitt to try to become the first openly gay man elected to the Georgia legislature. Marckeith DeJesus, a 37-year-old certified financial counselor for Northside Hospital, will challenge incumbent Mable www.thegeorgiavoice.com

State Rep. Kevin Tanner (R-Dawsonville) introduced two anti-gay bills in the House on Jan. 13. (File photo)

Thomas in the House District 56 primary on May 24.

DeJesus, a political newcomer, says he was motivated to run after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down same-sex marriage bans nationwide last summer.

“That really made my heart delightful and extremely excited about the future for us as LGBT persons,” he tells Georgia Voice in an exclusive interview.

While there’s no Georgia law against same-sex adoption, DeJesus sees a place for legislation strengthening those rights for LGBT people.

“That’s still kind of a gray area where unfortunately I believe that there’s still a lot of discrimination out there,” he says. “We need a bill to be drafted to allow LGBT persons to be able to adopt and to do so without discrimination.”

He also lists more prevention and care for people living with HIV, a comprehensive nondiscrimination law to protect LGBT individuals and enactment of a hate crimes law as other issues he plans on addressing if elected.

Another gay candidate jumps into Georgia House District 62 race The race to replace state Rep. Ladawn Blackett Jones in House District 62 just got more interesting, as Georgia Voice has learned that lesbian family law attorney Valerie Vie has jumped in, joining gay flight attendant and community advocate Rafer Johnson and three other candidates. The five Democrats will face off in a May 24 primary.

Vie lists education, increasing the minimum wage and cityhood as the major issues of her campaign, along with her opposition to Senate Bill 129, state Sen. Josh McKoon’s (R-Columbus) so-called “religious freedom” bill.

Vie says the fact that she’d be facing off against another gay candidate didn’t cause her any hesitation about jumping into the race.

“I don’t think that this race is going to be run by who’s gay and who’s straight,” she says. “I think it’s going to be run by who presents the issues objectively, and I’m not sure everyone feels that the plans or the positions have been projected objectively and that’s what I want to do.”

January 22, 2016 News 7

Outspoken PO Box 77401 • Atlanta, GA 30357 P: 404-815-6941; F: 404-963-6365

“We cloak ourselves in religion and church traditions, but when the service is over and the euphoric high of worship has ended, we’re still left to grapple with the truth about who we are.”

Editorial

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8 Outspoken January 22, 2016

An abominable truth

By DARIAN AARON daaron@thegavoice.com “But the sacred constructions of silence are futile exercises in denial. We will not go away with our issues of sexuality. We are coming home.”

—Essex Hemphill Can we talk? Good. This conversation couldn’t come at a better time, given the fact that this is our religion and faith issue. Like many of you, I have deep ties to Christianity.

Throughout my life, my faith has been a source of both comfort and spiritual anguish that has carried me over insurmountable odds while simultaneously threatening to extinguish my light. It is in the church where I first received the conflicting message that Jesus’ inevitable condemnation of my soul as someone who embraces his God-given sexual orientation was indeed an act of a loving and merciful God. I struggled for years with the idea that my innate desire to love another man and share in community with other LGBT people would separate me from God. I somehow managed to escape the relentless shame experienced by so many LGBT people of faith as a result of the spiritually violent sermons and homophobic interpretations of scripture that have become all too familiar in houses of worship. It’s a miracle that I haven’t completely rejected the

church and its teachings, which happen to be at the center of my experience as a black gay/ same-gender loving man in America.

Unfortunately, everyone isn’t so lucky.

I was reminded of that fact recently when shame, trauma and (internalized) homophobia showed up in my email inbox. For the record: my sexual orientation, like my race, is part of my identity. The quickest way to dishonor me is to tell only the part of my story that a homophobic culture deems acceptable.

For many Christians, whose devotion to Hell stands in tandem with their belief in Heaven, the closet has become a sanctuary in life for many LGBT folks and an instruction manual for those we leave behind on how our lives are to be memorialized in death.

I must have missed the memo that said it was our duty as gay people to take on the negative connations historically associated with the word “gay” or to elevate other perceived positive attributes to win in the game of respectability politics. I must have missed the memo that said by hiding and cowering in fear, we would endear ourselves to those who are intent on hating and questioning the authenticity of our truth. And I definitely missed the memo that said by naming these things, as they are, that our lives become less valuable or less sympathetic or our legacies diminished in the face of unthinkable tragedy.

Let me be clear: the playing field is not even, and I loathe the fact that as LGBT people we are constantly living in a state of coming out; constantly having to defend our humanity to those who hate us, to those who profess to love us, and even to ourselves. It’s a cultural issue that I believe many of us have yet to even begin to unpack. Doing so would require us to view our sexual orientation and any public identifier as simply the truth, an aspect of our identity to be celebrated and not hidden. But that would also require us to relinquish the stronghold that toxic theology has over our lives, which doesn’t happen overnight. It is without a doubt a process.

We must begin to do the work. I recognize that there is much untreated trauma in our community, specifically among LGBT people of color, and it pains me.

We cloak ourselves in religion and church traditions, but when the service is over and the euphoric high of worship has ended, we’re still left to grapple with the truth about who we are. To quote Audre Lorde: “Your silence will not protect you.” Those who would withhold love and respect and insist on us living in a closet of secrecy and shame do not deserve to experience the beautifully complex person God has designed. Their love may be conditional, but all bets must be off when it comes to loving and accepting the fullness of you. www.thegeorgiavoice.com

OUT IN THE WILD

By Simon Williamson

There’s no monopoly on faith Simon Williamson lives with his husband in heteronormatively-assimilative fashion in Athens, after a year of surviving rural Georgia.

One of the things I detest even more than deviled eggs is the implicit perception in religious and political circles that LGBT people are on one side of a binary and religious people are on the other. It is axiomatically false to separate the two categories, as many of our kinfolk and many of the people who support us believe in a range of deities.

While my data may be anecdotal, there is enough of it that I personally know multiple gay Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus and Christians, along with a matrix of agnostics and atheists. There’s an army of us in the LGBT community who have been pushed out of our religious backgrounds. A large portion of our community prays every day (not just on flights), attends church regularly, doesn’t blaspheme, asks for forgiveness, spends time with

“The problem isn’t whether or not Jesus would bake a cake for a gay couple. The problem is the motivation. ‘Deeply held religious beliefs.’ The list of things Jesus wasn’t super keen on is short, but among those things we can most assuredly find religion.”

Not long ago, a baker in Oregon refused to bake a wedding cake for a lesbian couple.

Following on the heels of this, a pizzeria in Indiana stated it would refuse to cater a same-sex wedding. As much as I love pizza, I’ve never had a pizza so good that it made me think, “Man, I should have this pizza at my wedding,” except maybe the Philosopher’s Pie from Mellow Mushroom. That is an amazing pizza. But I digress. Both business owners claimed that their “deeply held religious beliefs” prompted the refusal. Well, for the baker that is. The pizza owner would refuse service if a gay person in Indiana just happened to walk through the door and demand a five-tier wedding pizza. I’m not even sure what that would look like, but as a pizza lover I would guess it looks awesome. www.thegeorgiavoice.com

the community that is involved with their place of worship, sings in those places, and are committed to honoring the golden rule.

Despite being shat on by the sort of religious people who believe our civil right to marry robs them of some privilege, we forget that when we group religious people as one thing, we sometimes end up crapping all over our friends and family.

It is an easy trap to fall into, what with a Republican primary currently on the go, Kim Davis being invited to the State of the Union, and our presence in the most religious parts of the nation. We take a lot of flak from religious people, some of whom have made their entire careers benefiting from anti-LGBT prejudice.

We see waves of people coming together in alliances against our basic human rights, with

religion commonly forming a part of their bond. For example, in Houston at the end of last year, the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO), which included civil rights protections for LGBT people, failed. One of “HERO’s” most vocal supporters, Pastor Steve Riggle of Houston’s Grace Community Church, said he hoped leaders would “step up and stand against this thing that’s encroaching across the nation with intimidation and fear and telling people who just believe in common moral decency that they have no voice.” What a contemptible ass—as if we have no common moral decency.

These people piss us off. But they are not the same as our relatives, spouses and friends who maintain a relationship with their gods.

We’re experienced in being treated as a

“A large portion of our community prays every day (not just on flights), attends church regularly, doesn’t blaspheme, asks for forgiveness, spends time with the community that is involved with their place of worship, sings in those places, and are committed to honoring the golden rule.” bloc, and we’d be doing many of our own people a disservice if we didn’t respect their decisions to do with their faith what they will.

There are Robertsons and Falwells, Davises and Cruzes and Rubios in the world, but there is also Archbishop Desmond Tutu, whose daughter just married her partner, and churches along Peachtree Street that hang Pride flags out of their windows every October. There’s also a DC imam named Daayiee Abdullah, who has gone out of his way to perform secret ceremonies for LGBT people.

Like the hotness of Channing Tatum, there are some things we all agree on, like basic civil rights. On other subjects, we have to accept that there is varied opinion, and we would do well to not spear our own community. We get enough of that from the outside.

IN THE MIDDLE

By Kim Riggins

Freedom from religion: Part 1 Kim Riggins lives in Smyrna with her two incredibly spoiled dogs and an unhealthy obsession with Star Wars.

Now, with Georgia poised to revisit its own version of a “Religious Freedom Restoration Act” bill, the debate over religion vs. discrimination has resurfaced.

A friend of mine, also a Christian, said to me, “Jesus loves everyone, but he wouldn’t bake a wedding cake for a gay couple. He would bake a regular cake for them, but not a wedding cake.”

“Why not?” I replied, after filing her comment under “Some of the Most Ridiculous Things I’ve Ever Heard.”

“Because Jesus wouldn’t condone their sin.” This seems to be the wall at which we often stop. I don’t know if you’ve ever tried to explain translation errors to someone with “deeply held religious beliefs,” but this is the point where people stop considering

what you have to say. Once you cross into the realm of questioning those beliefs, even if they are misguided, you become the enemy for trying to lure them off the straight and narrow. Regardless, the problem with this conversation that I hear many people having is that it misses the point entirely.

The problem isn’t whether or not Jesus would bake a cake for a gay couple. The problem is the motivation. “Deeply held religious beliefs.” The list of things Jesus wasn’t super keen on is short, but among those things we can most assuredly find religion.

Jesus often broke Mosaic law to make his point. He touched lepers. He broke bread with sinners. He healed on the Sabbath. He did not make his disciples wash their hands before eating. And my personal favorite, he

claimed equality with God. So, assuming that Leviticus is translated correctly (and I’ve seen plenty of evidence to the contrary), why wouldn’t Jesus flout a law designed to marginalize people as he had done so many times before? When confronted, his replies, without fail, point to the person as the priority, not the law.

There is an important distinction here between religion and faith. Religion is concerned with rules. Faith is concerned with God. Ironically, faith is what frees us from religion. If we watch Jesus prioritize people over religious law and we fail to do the same, we have removed him from the equation. Once we have removed him, all we have left are our “deeply held religious beliefs.”

January 22, 2016 Outspoken 9

CATCHING UP WITH …

Will Armstrong Burly Bakers owner on his major health issues and steroid use in the gay community

By PATRICK SAUNDERS If there is anyone who is glad to see 2015 in the rearview mirror, it’s Burly Bakers owner Will Armstrong. Major health issues last spring led to a diagnosis of congestive heart failure for the gay 42-year-old Atlanta resident, keeping him in the hospital for six weeks straight and causing him to temporarily close the bakery and his IT consulting business.

Armstrong, who used to go by Bill but now prefers Will, adorned our annual Dining and Drink issue in Dec. 2014, a few months before his health troubles began. We sat down with him again one recent Monday afternoon, and he opened up about what happened, what role his steroid use had in it, and how the community helped him get on the path to recovery.

Soon after we last spoke for the Burly Bakers cover story, you started to have the health issues. Tell me about what happened.

So in May, I was short of breath and had been feeling bad. I ended up going to the outpatient clinic and was sent from there over to the ER at Crawford Long. It turned out it was kidney failure from lack of blood from lack of heart performance. Then it turned out to be congestive heart failure.

It was a rough few months. There was a period of a couple months there where it was a lot of uncertainty as to whether I would survive it or not. I applied for disability and had to close both my IT consulting business and the bakery for a while. My heart was pretty severely damaged.

But I’m still recovering. I’m definitely not 100 percent, nowhere near it. I’m still on an IV infusion that runs around the clock and they’re still considering me for a heart transplant. The future is still a little uncertain.

What was done medically and personally to get you out of those first few months when it was unclear if you would survive?

Well there were some lifestyle changes.

You know, I’ll be honest with you, I was using

“I see so many 40-year-old gay men die from steroid abuse and massive heart attacks and I think I finally reached a point where I realized that could have been me and that could have been the outcome in my case too.”

—Will Armstrong

steroids and they think steroid abuse was a big part of what caused the heart failure. I was big, I was 247 pounds, and that alone puts a lot of pressure on the heart.

I’ve been on a very reduced sodium diet.

Very clean living and just a very peaceful life, very stress-free. And lots and lots of medication, I’m on 14 medications now. This IV infusion they have me on is considered a bridge to transplant drug and it’s a pretty heavy duty one that saved my life in June. I think the steroids had a lot to do with it and dropping 50 pounds, that certainly made a difference.

What about medical expenses? Did you have insurance?

Thank God for President Obama and the Affordable Care Act [laughs] because I was insured. I’ve had $400,000 in medical bills since May. Thank God for the ACA because that’s the thing that saved my ass. I’ve had excellent care.

Also some people set up a GoFundMe campaign for me, and between that and another fundraiser they did it gave me $15,000 in cash, which really carried me through because when I got sick I completely lost my income altogether. The community helped me out a lot.

So how was your mindset while all of this was going on and what got you through it?

I’ll admit, it was pretty hard. The first 60 days were probably the hardest and I went through a very, very dark time. I had some friends that just really cared for me. I had friends that were staying at my house and taking care of my dog.

Above: Burly Bakers owner Will Armstrong was diagnosed with congestive heart failure last May and is being considered for a heart transplant. (Photo by Patrick Saunders). Left: The December 2014 Georgia Voice cover story on Will Armstrong and Burly Bakers.

I spent about six straight weeks in the hospital.

Luckily these donations kept coming in and people kept paying my bills and telling me not to worry about it. The community was amazing and my family was amazing. I was over it.

I had never up until that point had any indication of any heart problem. I was confused and in some pretty serious denial for a long time and was just angry. I guess I went through all those stages of grief they talk about and just a lot of disbelief about how this could happen.

I see so many 40-year-old gay men die from steroid abuse and massive heart attacks and I think I finally reached a point where I realized that could have been me and that could have been the outcome in my case too. And I started to look at what I had been given as being a second chance rather than “oh poor, pitiful me.”

That’s when things kind of shifted and I

started getting some gratitude about every day after that being a gift instead of me being dealt a bum hand. Because I can name three or four people just in the last two years that have died, seemingly healthy men but obviously gym rats who are 250 pounds and chasing the dream and they’re dead. And I’m not one of them so for that I’m happy. But it definitely took me some getting there.

When did your businesses start back up again?

I started the bakery up in June again but it’s on a pretty limited basis. Obviously some of my IT clients had to choose other providers because I was unable to be responsive. I just now got freedom to drive again.

So it’s been a slow start but I’m doing a little bit of both again and I’m really looking to ramp back up for Valentine’s Day and just see what the future holds. I’m trying not to let it overwhelm me or get too stressful because I’m at about 50 percent now physically.

I don’t want to kill myself with it.

10 Community January 22, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

WORK Bradford, Osoria newest additions to ‘SONG’ leadership Southerners on New Ground (SONG) has recruited Mickyel Bradford and R. Eujenia Osoria, two Atlanta activists and organizers, to join their leadership team in 2016.

Bradford steps into the role as Regional Organizer for TLC@SONG, while Osoria takes on the role as Regional Queering Immigration Fellow.

“I’m excited to grow the trans magic that has too long been invisible in the South,” said Bradford in a statement. “As a black trans woman and a performance artist, I’m looking forward to utilizing the cultural organizing models our communities have survived on for generations and using them to secure real wins NOW!” Osoria is equally excited about the journey ahead. “2016 is going to be a year that asks a lot of us all, and I’m ready to meet the moment with willingness, hope, and a desire to win for and with our people,” she said.

Brandware appoints Ryan Deal as Senior VP of strategy and content Brandware Public Relations, a national leader in enthusiast brand development, has announced the appointment of Ryan Deal as senior vice president of strategy and content.

Deal, who most recently served as a lead communications strategist for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), will oversee Brandware’s continued growth, including campaign creative, strategy, planning and development for public relations, social media and reputation management.

“Ryan is a seasoned communicator who has managed high-stakes, multi-channel media campaigns in both the public and private sectors,” said Elke Martin, president of Brandware Public Relations. “His strong experience in crisis communications and award-winning journalism background is a perfect match for our clients’ reputation and brand management needs.”

LGBT advocate Lonnell Williams featured in new book Atlanta-based LGBT advocate and digital influencer Lonnell Williams is featured in the new book, “Hustle Believe Receive: An 8 Step Plan To Changing Your Life And Living Your Dream” by author Sarah Centrella.

Williams’ personal story of moving from viwww.thegeorgiavoice.com

IT! Big Peach Running Co.

Souper Jenny

Decatur Bikes Ryan Deal is the new senior VP of strategy and content for Brandware Public Relations.

(Courtesy photo)

sualization to execution of his personal goals is outlined within.

“The beauty of ‘Hustle Believe Receive’ is it outlines specific action items to succeed not only in business but in life as well,” said Williams. “I’m no different from you when it comes to applying these principles. If it works for me it can work for you.”

Williams, known for his popular web series, “3LWTV” and “Pillow Talk,” continues to put forth positive community images through the power of social media. His befriending media mogul Oprah Winfrey through Twitter and his role as an OWN Network Ambassador also deserves a mention.

Delta names Solomon McClain as Brand Ambassador Delta, Atlanta’s hometown airline, has named Solomon McClain as one of its Brand Ambassadors. An Atlanta-based Delta flight attendant for over five years, McClain’s new role and commitment to providing a superior in-flight experience to Delta customers has elevated him among his peers.

As Brand Ambassador, McClain takes on an additional role as a peer support representative in Delta’s Peer Support Program and is also responsible for fitting new hire flight attendants into the 2018 Zac Posen designer uniforms.

A “Sky Sommelier,” McClain is also certified in wine tasting and serving onboard Delta flights by the famous Andrea Robinson.

He lives by the Ralph Waldo Emerson quote: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

The Yogurt Tap

happy new gear!

Treat yourself in ‘16 – local fitness finds, wholesome eats, or a new pair of sneaks help get your resolutions off on the right foot.

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visitdecaturga.com

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Visitors Center 113 Clairemont Ave.

1/19/16 6:36 PM

WORK

IT!

Are you a Georgia business owner or run an LGBT-friendly business? Were you recently promoted or made a big career change? We’d like to brag about you in our new business section Work It! Send all tips to editor@thegavoice.com

January 22, 2016 Community 11

FAITH&RELIGION

The Swilleys—five years later Jim, Debye, and Judah on family, change and the power of authenticity

By SHANNON HAMES In October 2010, megachurch pastor Bishop Jim Swilley stood in front of his “Church in the Now” congregation and told them that he was gay. His secret was known by his wife, Debye, when they married. In the end, she was the catalyst that brought him out of the closet when she realized that as long as she stayed married to him, he’d never really be the gay man that God created him to be. She divorced him to free him and then he came out to his family and his congregation. Georgia Voice was among the first to tell the Swilleys’ story.

The fallout was unavoidable. The church suffered a mass exodus and was forced to downsize. After Jim suffered some stress-related health issues, Debye prompted him to examine his heart again to do what made him happy. In July 2014 they closed Church in the Now. The Swilleys and their sons, also church employees, started over on their own paths. We recently caught up with Jim, Debye and son Judah (from our original interview), to see what they’re up to.

Judah is a fifth generation preacher at The Movement, a congregation that meets at a downtown coffee house. He is set to appear on the Oxygen network show, “Preachers of Atlanta,” on Feb. 3. The show follows Judah and four other Atlanta pastors and provides a close-up look at their personal and professional interactions.

“The last five years has been an evolution,” said Judah. “It’s grown me. Going through my parents’ divorce, my dad’s coming out and the loss of our church—those challenges made me who I am today.”

“I realize that not everyone is connected spiritually,” he said. “I really want to create community. The goal of “The Movement” is to reach people and connect them with others that are chasing after God and chasing after love.”

Openly gay Bishop Jim Swilley, left, is the pastor of ‘Metron;’ his son Judah Swilley, right, appears on ‘Preachers of Atlanta.’ (Courtesy photos)

“Being married as yourself, preaching as yourself and living your life as yourself is infinitely better than doing those things as someone else.”

—Bishop Jim Swilley Moving on, reclaiming identity After the church closed and Debye lost her job there, she was devastated. “It was all I had done for 20 years. Going through that loss forced me to find my own identity.”

She also found freedom in her faith. “The changes over the last few years have allowed me to be more open and honest about my personal views and not withhold about the universal way that I think and believe.”

Does she go to traditional church now? “I do not. Purposefully. For over 20 years, I was in every service and in the (church) office every day. I just needed the freedom not to have to be anywhere on any Sunday or any Wednesday night. I need the freedom to worship in my own way, in my own time. It’s been awesome.”

When it comes to regrets, she has none.

“If your life is built in love, then you never

regret. Love never fails. And those that are a part of your journey are going to be blessed.

It’s been an awesome ride.”

Love and ministry in the now On Dec. 31, 2014, Jim married his husband, Ken Marshall. Jim now pastors a congregation called “Metron” which meets at Landmark Midtown Art Cinema and streams live every Sunday on a YouTube channel.

“Midtown is where I live, that’s where I have energy. I thought the year I came out was the happiest of my life. But honestly, this last year was the happiest. It’s not a reflection of my past family life,” he said.

“Being married as yourself, preaching as yourself and living your life as yourself is infinitely better than doing those things as someone else.”

“When I married Debye, I thought the rapture was going to take place in the next couple of weeks. There was no reason for me to come out. Clearly, my theology has evolved.” he laughs. “Part of evolving is parting with illusions. Jesus said that the Kingdom of God is like someone who brings treasure out of their house, both old and new. I love that imagery. There are certain things about my Christian upbringing that I’m never going to abandon. That’s what I know. That’s my ground zero. There are also new ideas that I do not see as contradictory to the Christian message.”

Like Debye, Jim also has no regrets. “Dr. Seuss said, ‘don’t cry that it’s over, smile that it happened.’ I don’t regret anything,” he said. “I met a great man and I love what I do. I have an abundant life.”

12 Faith & Religion January 22, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

FAITH&RELIGION

Moving from vision to victory Empowerment, social justice “It is impossible to be a place that excludes and radical worship at The Vision Church of Atlanta people and say that

By DARIAN AARON daaron@thegavoice.com At first glance, Bishop O.C. Allen III appears to be like every other minister in the African-American church tradition: well-groomed, articulate and charismatic, with a voice that oscillates between a whisper and a prophetic roar. But there is something unique about him and the community of believers he’s been called to lead as the founder and senior pastor of The Vision Church of Atlanta, a three thousand-plus congregation that has grown from 12 faithful members in Allen’s living room in 2005, to weekly services in The Vision Cathedral in Atlanta’s Grant Park neighborhood.

The Vision Church of Atlanta, or simply “The Vision Church,” as it’s commonly called, is a place that welcomes all people on purpose, and LGBT people are no exception.

Allen says the idea from the very beginning was to create a place of worship for “people who felt like they did not have a space where they could be authentic, but with a caveat that this would be a place for everybody.”

The Vision Church is home to one of Atlanta’s most thriving LGBT congregations, with roots in the black Pentecostal tradition, but with a theology that leans towards inclusion instead of the exclusionary and harmful messages often heard in traditional churches.

Allen rejects the notion that a gospel of exclusion exemplifies the spirit of Christianity.

“It is impossible to be a place that excludes people and say that you’re Christian; that is antithetical to Christianity. The notion of inclusion has always been a Christian ideal,” said Allen.

“We always wanted to keep God and his love first, so it was not about being of www.thegeorgiavoice.com

you’re Christian; that is antithetical to Christianity. The notion of inclusion has always been a Christian ideal.”

—Bishop O.C. Allen III

a certain sexual orientation or race in order to have membership,” said First Gentleman Rashad Burgess. It was about having a place of authenticity that welcomed people fully for who they are into a space of God’s love.”

That authenticity at The Vision Church goes from the top down, as Burgess and Allen are not only partners in ministry but also partners in marriage and fathers to Joshua, 4, and Caylee, 3.

It’s a level of authenticity that serves as a model for the members who fill the pews on Sunday mornings and ammunition for critics who question the authenticity and holiness of a same-gender loving minister, his husband and an LGBT congregation.

People are listening For his part, Allen says he no longer defends his brand of Christianity.

“I think it’s a distraction. Spending time in conversations with people who are committed to not supporting us frankly has no fruit. What is important is to continue to preach justice, to preach equality, to preach love. That is what my job is, not to defend it,” he said.

“Our job is to speak to the people whose ears are assigned to listen to us and whose hearts we are assigned to speak to,” said Burgess.

Top: Bishop O.C. Allen III, founder and senior pastor of The Vision Church of Atlanta and First Gentleman Rashad Burgess are partners in ministry and marriage. Above: Sunday worship at The Vision Cathedral.

Courtney Walter has been listening since he joined The Vision Church at the end of 2012. He credits Allen’s ministry with helping him to reconcile his sexuality with his faith.

“I wanted to be somewhere where I could grow spiritually. My sexuality and spirituality are not separate entities, they’re one,” said Walter. “I wanted to be somewhere where I could bring my whole self in the room.”

Likewise, Jarrett Walton has been attending The Vision Church for over seven years, and he tells Georgia Voice that he struggled in the past to understand what the Word meant for him in terms of his sexuality.

“It (The Vision Church) ministered to me,” said Walton. “Bishop has a very nontraditional way of ministering the Word and making sure to meet people where they are, then taking them to where they need to be.”

A global movement So why do so many LGBT people remain in harmful churches instead of flocking to affirming ministries? The answer is varied

and complex. Burgess admits that this is one area where he is quite dogmatic.

“I do not participate in my own oppression,” he said. “When you go to other mainstream communities, no one expects them to go to a place that doesn’t uplift them, especially a place that’s about their spiritual nourishment and growing.”

Allen and Burgess agree that they won’t be able to “bring everyone along, but our responsibility is to those who do come along.”

“We’re not just about being a church, we’re also about the empowerment of the community in every way possible,” said Allen.

From HIV testing to feeding the homeless and community outreach through Black Gay Pride events such as the Pure Heat Community Festival, the reach of The Vision Church will not be confined to Atlanta.

“It’s a global movement, said Allen. “It will spread to places where there is no Vision Church, like Iran, Russia, Chile, places where LGBT folk exist and need a space where Jesus can be taught.”

January 22, 2016 Faith & Religion 13

FAITH&RELIGION

Central Presbyterian Church continues fight for social justice Progressive church marches in Pride parade and marches against ‘religious freedom’ bill

By PATRICK SAUNDERS psaunders@thegavoice.com Before Gary Charles became head pastor at Central Presbyterian Church, he came from a church outside Washington, D.C. that was conflicted on the issue of being welcoming and affirming to LGBT members and including them in the leadership. So he still had that bad taste in his mouth once he got to Central Presbyterian in 2004.

“I had heard that they were a fully welcoming and affirming congregation, but I guess I really didn’t believe it. So I preached quite a bit about being welcoming and affirming. And I had one of the lesbian members come up to me and say, ‘Gary, we really appreciate your sermons but Central crossed that bridge awhile back, so there are really probably some other things you want to be focused on,’” Charles says, laughing. “There are plenty of things we fuss and fight about, but sexual orientation isn’t one of them.”

History of social justice work The church has shown a penchant for getting involved in such social justice over the years, whether it’s supporting the efforts of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference during the African-American civil rights battles of the 1960s or advocating and providing services for the poor and the homeless.

And Central Presbyterian couldn’t be in a better location for a church devoted to social justice—it’s directly across the street from the State Capitol, where it appears as if the statue of the late Georgia Gov. Ellis Arnall is about to walk over and join the congregation in some hallelujahs.

As for the church’s LGBT bona fides, its members are seen routinely during Atlanta Pride weekend, whether having a booth in the park, hosting a worship service before the parade or marching in the parade. They’ve also hosted the Sylvia Rivera Stonewall Community Brunch during Stonewall Week, and last year hosted a rally against Senate Bill 129, state Sen. Josh McKoon’s (R-Columbus) so-

Pastor in residence Molly McGinnis (who identifies as queer) and head pastor Gary Charles of Central Presbyterian Church.

(Photo by Patrick Saunders)

“It’s important to me that people I encounter know that I’m Christian and that I’m a pastor and that I’m queer and that I see those parts of my life as being integral and uplifting with each other and not antithetical or conflicting.”

—Central Presbyterian Church pastor in residence Molly McGinnis called “religious freedom” bill.

“It’s an attempt to legalize discrimination in the name of religious freedom, and who’s not in favor of religious freedom? It’s like apple pie and your mother, you can’t speak about those,” says Charles, who also signed a petition against the bill along with a couple hundred other local faith leaders. “Well, this [bill] has precious little to do with religious freedom and a lot to do with a very conservative political agenda that would set the clock back under the auspices that this is a good and holy thing to do. It’s neither good nor holy.”

Queer pastor wants to heal effects of ‘spiritual abuse’ It was the chance to meld her interests in social justice and community organizing that drew Arkansas native Molly McGinnis to Atlanta and Central Presbyterian, where she came on as pastor in residence last July.

“I am queer myself and I know that Central is a very welcoming community for queer people and that this is a community in which I would be accepted as their pastor,” she tells Georgia Voice.

She quickly got involved in church life and networking with the city’s LGBT community, and took part in last October’s Pride festivities.

“My role as a queer pastor specifically is to be in a relationship with people who have been hurt and are angry at the church, people who have been disowned from their families and suffer from depression and anxiety because of the spiritual abuse that they’ve experienced from the Christian community,” McGinnis says. “It’s important to me that people I encounter know that I’m Christian and that I’m a pastor and that I’m queer and that I see those parts of my life as being integral and uplifting with each other and not antithetical or conflicting.”

It’s an ongoing process, though, to get those in the LGBT community who’ve been the victims of that “spiritual abuse” to come back around to their faith. McGinnis recalled a conversation with a friend the previous evening.

“She told me two stories. One about another person who was a former Christian and the day she decided to close her Bible and never open it again. And that story made me sad.

And then she told me another story about a community that rejected her. That story made me angry. And I think that is where Christianity’s witness is stagnant in the U.S. “There are these stories that make us sad and these stories that make us angry but there aren’t enough people who are speaking loudly enough a message of hope and love and welcome. And I think that Central is doing that and I want people in the city to know that Central is doing that but there are also other communities here that are doing that as well.”

14 Faith & Religion January 22, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Come be part of our faith family CENTRAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH GARY W. CHARLES, PASTOR 201 WASHINGTON ST 404-659-0274 • CPCATLANTA.ORG Looking for a progressive church?

Come to Central Presbyterian, where we celebrate all human diversity as intentional acts of God.

DRUID HILLS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

DAVE ALLEN GRADY, PASTOR 1200 PONCE DE LEON AVE. (AT BRIARCLIFF) 404-377-6481 DRUIDHILLSUMC.ORG. Radical love is here!

Happy Pride!!!

GRACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH REV. KATE HURST FLOYD, PASTOR 458 PONCE DE LEON AVE. 404-876-2678 • GRACEONPONCE.ORG

Whoever you are, wherever you are on your faith journey, you are God’s beloved and welcome at Grace UMC. Join us for worship on Sundays at 11 AM.

ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH REV. DAN MATTHEWS JR., RECTOR 435 PEACHTREE ST. • 404-873-7600 STLUKESATLANTA.ORG St. Luke’s is a diverse community of doers: feeding the hungry, tending the sick and studying God’s word.

Come see for yourself.

Worship Sunday 8/9/11 AM. Complimentary parking.

VIRGINIA HIGHLAND UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST REV. MICHAEL PIAZZA 743 VIRGINIA AVE. • 404-348-4830 VHCHURCH.ORG

Virginia Highland is a radically inclusive community boldly pursuing God’s charge to fight for justice, embrace compassion, and humbly explore our faith as we follow the Way of Jesus.

Do justice. Love mercy.

Walk humbly.

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

NORTH DECATUR PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

ELIZABETH WALTEMATH & DAVID LEWICKI, CO-PASTORS 611 MEDLOCK RD. • DECATUR, GA 30033 404-636-1429 NDPC.ORG The life to which we are called as disciples of Jesus is this: serve, work for peace and justice, and share God’s love with everyone you meet.

DRUID HILLS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH REV. SHELLI LATHAM, PASTOR 1026 PONCE DE LEON AVE. 404-875-7591 • DHPC.ORG.

Druid Hills Presbyterian Church is an open and affirming congregation. We believe that there is nothing that separates us from the love of God and that all of God’s children are called into Christian community, are created with a purpose that glorifies God, and are invited to serve the church and the needs of our neighbors.

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ATLANTA

GLENN MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

(NEXT TO THE HIGH MUSEUM)

Glenn Memorial is committed to loving God and loving neighbor with our whole selves- heart, mind, soul, and strength. As Jesus loved those around him, we believe that all persons are of sacred worth and dignity as part of God’s creation. We welcome all persons into the full life and ministry of our congregation.

DR. TONY SUNDERMEIR 1328 PEACHTREE ST. 404-892-8461 FIRSTPRESATL.ORG.

A community of grace, rooted in tradition and open to the spirit.

MORNINGSIDE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

REV. DR. BARON MULLIS 1711 MORNINGSIDE DR. • 404-876-7396 LGBTANDFRIENDS@MORNINGSIDEPC.ORG

REV. DR. P. ALICE ROGERS 1660 N. DECATUR RD. (AT EMORY) 404-634-3936 • GLENNUMC.ORG.

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA THE REV. NANCY CHRISTENSEN, SR. PASTOR 1410 PONCE DE LEON AVE. NE 404-378-4243 STJOHNSATLANTA.ORG

Morningside Presbyterian Church doors are open to everyone as we aspire to live out our motto: Welcome all. Serve all. Sunday worship at 11 AM.

Invites freely, loves unconditionally, and serves with joy!

Sunday services at 10:30 a.m.

All are welcome.

ST. MARK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

THE EPISCOPAL CATHEDRAL OF ST. PHILIP

DR. BETH LAROCCA-PITTS, PASTOR 781 PEACHTREE ST. 404-873-2636 STMARKUMC.ORG Over a century of acceptance.

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

THE VERY REV. SAMUEL G. CANDLER, DEAN 2744 PEACHREEE RD. 404-365-1000 STPHILIPSCATHEDRAL.ORG Sunday Eucharist Services 7:45/8:45/9/11:15 AM (English & Spanish). 4 PM Evensong.

A house of prayer for all people.

We welcome all of God’s children.

Come join us.

January 22, 2016 Ads 15

By SHANNON HAMES

RT

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A Southern light is shining brightly in Los Angeles and his name is Sampson McCormick.

The 29-year-old gay comedian from North Carolina is known for his comedy, writing and activism. On Jan. 31 at 7:30p.m., he will bring his standup routine to the Phillip Rush Center.

We asked Sampson about his comedy, his religious upbringing and his film project examining the challenges that queer artists face in show business. His answers will surprise you.

I

T A TLA N TA

ENT

The in-demand comedian brings the laughs, love to Atlanta

REV

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B*@&! BETTER HAVE MY FUNNY

LGB

A

RTS

EW

SAMPSON McCORMICK:

AIN M E NT

You’re a comedian, but you have a strong message about love in your comedy and writing. Where did that come from?

Sampson: I have a book coming out in March, it’ll be my third. It’s called “Rights of Black Queens and Church Mothers.” It’s a book of essays on kindness, love, queerness, religion and the experience of being a queer person of color. This world thrives on love. I worry that it’s

Photo by Don Harris

CONTINUES ON PAGE 17

16 A&E January 22, 2016

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

disappearing and it’s a huge problem. There is so much bad news we hear about—love is a missing ingredient. I believe we need to have happiness and human connection so I talk about it often.

You also talk (sometimes hilariously) about being a queer person of color and growing up in a religious home.

I grew up in an extremely religious home.

A lot of my standup material comes from that extreme upbringing. If I’d have stayed in the South, I may have become a pastor.

But now, my thinking has evolved outside of that traditional, religious understanding of God. I believe that God is such a great entity that it cannot be confined to a book or a set of beliefs or rules.

My mom was gung-ho religious. I joke about her frying my chicken in anointing oil.

When you’re young, you live in fear of your parents. But there comes a point when you just have to reckon with the reality of being who you are.

I was outed to my mom. At first, she went to the church. They wanted to pray over me and I would fight it. She would tell me how homosexuality causes all kinds of problems like wars and storms. I always wanted to be that girl, Storm, on the X-Men, so that was a bad argument for her to use on me. I just rebelled against the church thing.

Are you still rebelling?

I’ve gotten better. I was in St. Louis last summer performing. This guy came to my show and he had a poster board sign that said “You Will Burn In Hell” and he was just parading through the audience with his sign.

My brain went blank; I dropped my microphone, jumped off the stage and snatched his sign. I took off running with it. He tried to come backstage and three big lesbians stopped him. I love lesbians! They have been my biggest audience from day one.

Tell us about your film.

At the end of 2014, I was dealing with a lot of stuff. Show business is a hustle. You can do a TV show, but the next day, it’s back to the grind. You have to look for more gigs and keep your life going. I was dealing with that and rejection in the business. People would say, “Oh, you’re funny but you’re gay and that’s not marketable.” I fell into a deep depression and was considering taking my life. Thankfully, I was able to reel it in.

Part of my coping/healing process was to sit down and examine what I was facing in www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Photo by Adam McMath

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

“They wanted to pray over me and I would fight it. She would tell me how homosexuality causes all kinds of problems like wars and storms. I always wanted to be that girl, Storm, on the X-Men, so that was a bad argument for her to use on me.”

—Sampson McCormick

my industry—how I was being challenged and how I was responding. The film helped me to focus on looking at some of the challenges of queer artists. Now we have Empire, Orange Is The New Black, Scandal and some of those other shows that have more queer visibility, but the actors who play them aren’t gay. We still fail to get a lot of opportunities.

I wanted to have a conversation about that.

It’s called “A Tough Act to Follow” and will be out by early April.

We’re excited that you’ve included Atlanta on your comedy tour!

Atlanta is the home of the black gay male and one of my favorite cities. If you’re black and gay, no matter where you’re from, when you come to Atlanta, you’re coming home. I always joke that when I’m coming to Atlanta, there aint nothin’ like those good, gay, Atlanta sissies! I look forward to seeing all of my gays in Atlanta—we’re going to have a great time.

HAWKS vs.

MAVERICKS MONDAY, FEB 1 @ 8:00PM HAWKS vs.

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HAWKS.COM January 22, 2016 A&E 17

ACTING OUT

By JIM FARMER

Curtains up on ‘The Missing Generation,’ ‘Beauty and the Beast’ One is an intimate dance performance revolving around AIDS survivors; another is a national touring show featuring a gay actor.

“The Missing Generation,” debuting at 7 Stages, and “Beauty and the Beast,” courtesy of Broadway Across America, are two drastically different pieces of theater hoping to bring in crowds.

Dancer/choreographer Sean Dorsey— who is transgender—and his acclaimed troupe Sean Dorsey Dance are bringing “The Missing Generation” to town. Through dance, theater and storytelling, it looks at how AIDS affected an entire generation of the gay and transgender community in the 1980s and 1990s.

Dorsey started his research when he was in Atlanta for his show, “The Secret History of Love,” in 2014. With that, he spoke to LGBT elders about growing up gay. He was surprised by what he learned.

“I was struck at the absence of an entire generation of people who I couldn’t capture or express,” he says.

When Dorsey started, he knew he wanted to do archival research. “I wanted to do oral history with people who lived there at the time of the AIDS epidemic. What I learned is that this project was different than what I conceived. I was moved to make not just a beautiful dance show, but a vehicle to give voice to long-time survivors of the epidemic,” says Dorsey. “What history we do have is tiny, not taught to other generations. We don’t talk at all in our culture about those people who are living with this unimaginable mask of grief at a time of extraordinary discrimination from the government.”

The piece debuted last year in San Francisco, the troupe’s home, and has crisscrossed the country.

As part of his research, Dorsey talked to people both HIV negative and positive, some who’ve been living with the disease more than 30 years, as well as health care workers and activists. Especially important was to bring in transgender voices and discuss their particular struggles.

Among those in Atlanta he talked to are “Dream Boy” author Jim Grimsley, trans activists Dee Dee Chamblee and Cheryl Courtney-Evans, and Gert McMullin, who

Ryan Everett as Beast and Jillian Butterfield as Belle in Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ (Photo by Matthew Murphy). ‘The Missing Generation’ (Photo by Lydia Daniller)

was instrumental in starting the AIDS Memorial Quilt.

As part of the run, 7 Stages will be hosting “Generations Positive: Exploring The Impact of HIV/AIDS in LGBTQ Communities, Past & Present” on Feb. 7 at 1 p.m.

Out performer David Grindrod is part of the ensemble in the touring version of “Beauty and the Beast,” playing several characters, including a pepper shaker. A recent alumnus of Pace University in New York, the Annapolis, Maryland, native graduated in May and realized that—as a musical theater performer wannabe—much of his time would be spent

auditioning. This is not the first big tour for him; he played Mark, one of the gay characters in “A Chorus Line,” as well. Yet this is his first major gig after school. Luckily he was cast without much fanfare and started in September.

“Beauty and the Beast” is a musical that he has learned appeals to all audiences, but he does think that LGBT people can empathize with the Beast, who is an outsider. “It’s about looking past someone’s exterior to really see who they are,” he says. “The Beast transforms into someone Belle can fall in love with. He wants her to see who he really is inside.”

Details ‘The Missing Generation’ 7 Stages 1105 Euclid Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30307 Feb. 4–6 www.7stages.org

‘Beauty and the Beast’ Fox Theatre 660 Peachtree St, Atlanta GA 30308 Feb. 2–7 www.broadwayacrossamerica.com

18 A&E January 22, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

EATING MY WORDS

By CLIFF BOSTOCK

Ticonderoga Club at Krog Street Market “Who comes here and pays these prices?” my friend Ryan asked as we buzzed around the jam-packed Krog Street Market (KSM) food hall on a recent Friday night.

“Midtown hipsters,” I said, then walked it back. “That’s unfair. I’m guessing it’s a younger crowd before they start baby-making.”

I’ve been to KSM about six times and rarely spend less than $30 (including tips, no alcohol, and a side) after hitting a stall, like my favorite, Fred’s Meat and Bread, followed by a much-unneeded splurge at the Little Tart Bakeshop or Jeni’s Ice Cream.

During our recent visit, we dined at the last full-service spot to open—the Ticonderoga Club. The restaurant is named after New York’s Fort Ticonderoga, built by the French in the 18th century on Lake Champlain. I suppose that explains the brick and dark-paneled walls.

It’s clever, but, despite a small loft, the dining room felt very claustrophobic to me. We ended up asking to switch tables to one in the betterlit exterior space that gives a view of the milling crowd and the long, long line of people waiting to score some Jeni’s ice cream.

The menu includes plenty of great, if fairly expensive, tastes with a great accent on seafood. For example, we ordered a starter of shrimp wrapped in kataifi, which is shredded phyllo pastry that’s very popular in the Middle East. It consisted of two “rolls,” each containing two shrimp. Besides the coating, what made the dish especially intriguing was a dipping sauce described as “yolk and wort.”

I was unfamiliar with the latter and asked the server what it was. He said it was Worcestershire sauce, which I detest, but it turned out it was nothing of the kind. It was faintly malty, topped by a tiny yolk that we stirred into the dark liquid.

Our server also told us that if we ordered this $12 starter, we would not need a second one, because “it’s enough for four.” Sure, if you want one shrimp. Other starters include grilled foie gras ($22), sweetbreads with arugula and citrus brown butter ($12), spiced pork confit with coriander relish and masa porridge ($10), and a cured salmon spring www.thegeorgiavoice.com

Ticonderoga Club’s Ipswich clam roll with tartar royale. (Courtesy photo)

roll ($14). Heftier dishes include an absolutely delicious Ipswich clam roll. It will set you back $17.66, but it’s still the most generous portion for the money.

Also on the table was the day’s catch, fat, immensely flavorful grouper chunks stacked in a tiny bowl of basil-shellfish broth. Tasty? Hell yeah. I’d say it wasn’t worth $19, but the cost of seafood has skyrocketed, and I doubt you’d find something similar anywhere for less.

Only a couple other entrées are on the menu—two softshell crabs ($28) and half a dry-aged roasted duck ($34). There’s a Cobb salad ($10) and a butternut-squash salad with a decidedly Vietnamese influence ($9).

We tried a table-sized side of wok-cooked veggies, mainly over-salted bok choy.

Two desserts are on the menu, but I was craving macaroons from Little Tart Bakery.

Unfortunately, they were closed and the line still remained very long at Jeni’s. So we landed across the street at Jake’s in the Irwin Street Market, pigging out on some of the city’s best ice cream.

Would I go back to Ticonderoga? Possibly, but I most recommend this to people who want an exotic cocktail and a small plate of food.

Cliff Bostock is a longtime restaurant critic and former psychotherapist now specializing in life coaching, especially with creative types and gay men in “midlife crisis.”

January 22, 2016 Columnists 19

BO

LGBT

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By Terri Schlichenmeyer

America’s first gay marriage

REVIE W There’s always been a picket fence in your future.

You could just picture it: charming spouse, two-point-five kids, minivan, Cape Cod with manicured lawn, birthday parties on the patio, all surrounded by that picket fence. It was a perfect dream of a blissful life.

And, as in “The Wedding Heard ‘Round the World” by Michael McConnell with Jack Baker, as told to Gail Langer Karwoski, making history would be a nice bonus.

As a child playing with neighborhood girls, Michael McConnell remembers wanting the same thing they wanted: to grow up and marry a handsome man. Their crushes were his crushes, too, but in the 1950s, that kind of thing wasn’t discussed.

By the time he entered college at the University of Oklahoma in the mid-1960s, however, McConnell had come out to his family and was comfortable with his sexuality. He met other gay men and enjoyed an active social life on campus and then, on October 29, 1966, he met Jack Baker.

For the first minutes of their get-to-knowyou, McConnell thought Baker was much older, or perhaps straight. Baker’s demeanor was businesslike, almost military; McConnell had recently had his heart broken, and was guarded. Still, by the end of the evening, they were lovers; soon after, they were a couple.

By the early 1970s, though their relationship had to be kept quieter, McConnell and Baker were “out” enough to want to make real change. Baker, a Minneapolis law student, filed suit against the U.S. military over an unfair downgrade in his discharge status.

After following Baker north, McConnell fought job discrimination. And then there was the wedding Baker promised McConnell on Baker’s 25th birthday. It would happen—they just had to figure out how.

That would take some time, but Baker was on it. His legal training tickled his methodical mind, until he discovered two loopholes the state of Minnesota hadn’t closed.

One led to the next, and both led to their history-making wedding in 1971.

That, of course, isn’t the end of the story.

20 A&E January 22, 2016

Details ‘The Wedding Heard

‘Round the World: America‘s First Gay Marriage’

By Michael McConnell with Jack Baker, as told to Gail Langer Karwoski University of Minnesota Press, 2016 200 pages $22.95 Authors Michael McConnell and Jack Baker continued their activism, but their nuptials, the first in America for same-sex celebrants, are the real focus in “The Wedding Heard ‘Round the World.” And that’s a good thing, too, because the love story in this book is what makes it so readable. McConnell’s account (as told to Gail Langer Karwoski) is mostly what’s here, and it’s the quintessential romance: boy meets boy, boy marries boy, they live happily (almost) ever after.

Conversely, it’s the almost that makes this book so important: the battles the authors accepted caused emotional hardship in many ways and that almost led to a breakup. And yet, for the sake of others who came after them, they continued to take on gay rights issues— stories of which are told humbly, yet proudly.

Overall, this is a sweet story wrapped inside a righteous fight, told with charm and grace.

It’s deep, yet lighthearted and definitely worth a look. Start “The Wedding Heard ‘Round the World”—and you’ll have no defense. www.thegeorgiavoice.com

“A 90-minute masterpiece!”

—onStAGE

A modern thriller about the stories we tell our friends, the secrets we tell our lovers, and the lies we tell ourselves.

“Breathtaking, raw and blistering...”

—Associated Press

By AyAd AkhtAr DirecTeD By SuSAn V. Booth

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for BeS

Jan. 27–Feb. 14, 2016

Tickets @ 404.733.5000 // Groups 404.733.4690 alliancetheatre.org/disgraced

Series on the Alliance Stage Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs

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$ 20 s a w o l s tickets a

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LGBT

Our Guide to the Best LGBT Events in Atlanta for Jan. 22-Feb. 4

BETS

TA N A AT L EVENT

S

SATURDAY, JAN. 23

Actor’s Express opens the musical, ‘Sweeney Todd,’ with Kevin Harry as the murderous lead character, directed by Freddie Ashley, 8 p.m., www.actors-express.com. (Photo by BreeAnne Clowdus/Actor’s Express)

FRIDAY, JAN. 22

SCAD FASH, the Savannah College of Art and Design’s museum celebrating fashion and film, presents “Be Yourself; Everyone Else Is Already Taken”—the first U.S. exhibition featuring the work of artist, stylist and designer Daniel Lismore— today through April 1, www.scadfash.org The Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (AGLCC) presents its Fourth Friday networking event tonight at the Atlanta History Center, 5:30–7:30 p.m., 130 West Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

EVENT SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, JAN. 23

Sean Mac is the special guest DJ tonight at Jungle Atlanta, www. jungleatl.com (Photo via Facebook)

22 Best Bets January 22, 2016

From the creators of “South Park” comes the Tony-winning, gay-themed musical, “The Book of Mormon,” which has returned to the ATL through Jan. 24 with a 7:30 p.m. show tonight, Fox Theatre, www.foxtheatre.org DJ Craig and DJ Brent present Sweet at the Heretic, www.hereticatlanta.com

SATURDAY, JAN. 23

Written by out Atlanta playwright Margaret Edson, the acclaimed drama “Wit” is being staged by Aurora Theatre, with a 2:30 p.m. performance today and running through Feb. 7, www.auroratheatre.com

Julie Osborne hosts a night of comedy featuring Brent Star, Kia Comedy, Bob Killough and Sannchaz Blackmon, 9 p.m., My Sister’s Room, www.mysistersroom.com

MONDAY, JAN. 25

It’s Country Night all night at the Heretic tonight, beginning at 8 p.m. with free basic/ intermediate two step lessons and Pascal DJ Dustin, www.hereticatlanta.com

The Atlanta Eagle hosts a Cancer Benefit for adult performer Scott Spears, with raffles and music by DJ Diablo Rojo, 10 p.m.–3 a.m., www.atlantaeagle.com The infamous Charlie Brown hosts the naughty “The Taboo Show” at Lips Atlanta, midnight, www.lipsatl.com

SUNDAY, JAN. 24

Enjoy NFL conference championship games today at Woofs Atlanta, www.woofsatlanta.com

It’s the Panther Levi/Leather night at the Atlanta Eagle, 7–10 p.m., www.atlantaeagle.com Enjoy karaoke and margarita specials tonight at Las Margaritas, lasmargaritasmidtown.com

TUESDAY, JAN. 26

The International Human Trafficking Institute and the LGBT Institute, both programs of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Inc., present a night of panelists discussing the intersection of human trafficking and the LGBT community. Some estimates have put the number of LGBT youth forced into homelessness by their families at

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

TELL US ABOUT YOUR LGBT EVENT Submit your LGBT event for inclusion in our online and print calendars by emailing event info to editor@thegavoice.com over 25 percent. On the streets these young people face a significant chance of becoming victims of human trafficking. Once trafficked, they could face beatings, mutilations, brandings, rapes, and other abuses.

7 p.m., National Center for Civil and Human Rights, www.civilandhumanrights.org Game Night at The Hideaway with trivia and drink specials cranks up at 8:30 p.m., www.atlantahideaway.com J’s Lounge is the home for Rainbow Tuesdays, with Dymond Onasis and Nicole Paige Brooks leading the fun and DJ Destin providing house music, 1995 Windy Hill Road #1, Smyrna, GA 30080

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 27

The Alliance Theatre opens the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, “Disgraced,” tonight at 7:30 p.m., running through Feb. 14, www.alliancetheatre.com DJ David spins tonight at BJ Roosters, 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road, Atlanta, GA 30324

THURSDAY, JAN. 28

SAGE Atlanta hosts its social hour— with cards, coffee, Ping-Pong and conversation—at 10 a.m. at the Rush Center Annex, www.rushcenteratl.org Join Charis Books for another installment of “Dear Games,” an ongoing discussion and workshop series curated in partnership with Different Games and the Georgia Tech Feminist Video Game Lab’s Sarah Schoemann and Michael Vogel. This month we welcome Shira Chess, Assistant Professor of Mass Media Arts in the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia. 7:30–9 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com Brent Star is the host for Twisted Thursdays at Las Margaritas, lasmargaritasmidtown.com

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

TUESDAY, JAN. 26

It’s the biggest film festival in the city—the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival kicks off tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Cobb Energy Centre, running through Feb. 17, www.ajff.org. (Publicity photo) Tanyla Cassadine and Trinity k.

Bonet host the Atlanta Jewel Showcase every Thursday night at 11:30 p.m., Mixx Atlanta, www.mixxatlanta.com

Brooks emcee the rowdy Femme Fatale event tonight beginning at 11 p.m., Burkhart’s, www.burkharts.com

FRIDAY, JAN. 29

Join KJ Lance, KJ Steve and KJ James for Karaoke Saturday, 9 p.m.– 2:30 a.m., Faces Lounge in Marietta, faceslounge.com

Join Charis Books for a birthday party to celebrate the release of Charis Circle Board Co-Chair Chesya Burke’s first novel, “The Strange Crimes of Little Africa,” a historical mystery that follows Jaz Idawell on the vibrant, culturally fertile streets of art and literature in the 1920s Harlem Renaissance. Best friends with Zora Neale Hurston, the two women set out to find the truth about their wonderful world of Little Africa in Harlem. 7:30–9 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com Grammy Award winners Macklemore & Ryan Lewis visit the Fox Theatre tonight, 8 p.m., www.foxtheatre.org Come get your VIP card at BJ Roosters while supplies last. VIP card holders get free entry to the club on cover charge nights (Friday and Saturday). Stay for a drink or two, a bite to eat, and some hot eye candy on the bar. 9 p.m., BJ Roosters, 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road, Atlanta, GA 30324 DJ Mike Pope anchors Pump Friday at the Heretic, www.hereticatlanta.com Destiny Brooks and Shavonna B.

SATURDAY, JAN. 30

DJ Caprice spins at Bulldogs, 893 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA, 30308 Come join the Fantasy Girls as Jungle Atlanta kicks off a weekly Saturday night show at Jungle with Celeste Holmes, Phoenix, Destiny Brooks, Dynasty St James, Extasy Grey and the epic beats of Bill Berdeaux, Jungle Atlanta, www.jungleatl.com Think you have what it takes to perform alongside Atlanta legends Monica van Pelt, Shawnna Brooks, Niesha Dupree, national Entertainer Of the Year Raquell Lord, RuPaul’s Drag Race alumna Nicole Paige Brooks and the wild card Evah Destruction? Here’s your chance to compete for a Synergy guest spot. Every Saturday, Monica will host a one-hour Synergy Star Search competition from 9:30–10:30 p.m. at Burkhart’s, www.burkharts.com

CONTINUES ON PAGE 24

EVENT SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, JAN. 30

The Atlanta Rollergirls kick off their 12th home season with two doubleheader games that will mark the debut of a record number of new rookies as well as some high-profile transfers from other leagues. The evening opens at 5 p.m. with the Sake Tuyas taking on the Denim Demons, and then at 7:30 the Apocalypstix take on the Toxic Shocks, Yaarab Shrine Center, 400 Ponce De Leon Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 (Photo via Facebook)

January 22, 2016 Best Bets 23

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

SUNDAY, JAN. 31

DJ Stan Jackson spins at Xion Atlanta this morning beginning at 3 a.m., www.facebook.com/ events/1084022274954740 Enjoy brunch at Amsterdam with a full menu, www.amsterdamatlanta.com “#Bloop” is an evening of love, shade and laughter with performer Sampson, $10, 7:30 p.m., Rush Center Annex, http://www.rushcenteratl.org/

MONDAY, FEB. 1

Trans and Friends is a youth-focused group for trans people, people questioning their own gender, and aspiring allies.

Charis Books offers a facilitated space to discuss gender, relevant resources, and activism around social issues. 7- 8:30 p.m., www.charisbooksandmore.com The PFLAG Atlanta support group meets today from 7:30–9 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta, www.uuca.org

TUESDAY, FEB. 2

Make your lunch break a networking opportunity and connect with business professionals, small business owners, job seekers and community supporters to expand your circle of influence and grow your business at Connecting Atlanta, a networking lunch by the Metro Atlanta Association of Professionals (MAAP). Join MAAP at Egg Harbor Café the first Tuesday of every month from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the event, which is limited to 20 participants. Please preregister by emailing Todd Cosper at tcosper@maapatl.org Art It Out Therapy Center is now offering an Expressive Art Therapy Group for LGBTQ teens on Tuesdays.

Through art, the group will explore self-identity, coping with stress, intimate and parental relationships, and coming out. 7 p.m., 255 Village Parkway (in Paper Mill Village), Suite 580, Marietta, GA 30067 Broadway Across America brings the crowd favorite “Beauty and the Beast” to the Fox Theatre tonight through Feb. 7, with a 7:30 p.m. curtain this evening, www.foxtheatre.org

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 3

The Reboot Retro Wednesdays event begins tonight at 8 p.m. at Oscar’s Atlanta, www.oscarsatlanta.com

24 Best Bets January 22, 2016

FRIDAY, FEB. 5

Atlanta Ballet presents “Moulin Rouge” tonight at 8 p.m. with various showtimes through Feb. 13, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, www.cobbenergycentre.com (Photo via Facebook) Enjoy Church Organ Karaoke featuring T.T. Mahony at Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium, 10 p.m., www.sisterlouisaschurch.com It’s Voyeur Wednesdays night with hot go-go boys, hosted by Kyra Mora, at 11 p.m., Blake’s, www.blakesontheparkatlanta.com

THURSDAY, FEB. 4

Sean Dorsey Dance presents the dance piece, “The Missing Generation,” featuring interviews with those affected by the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s and 1990s, 8 p.m., running through Sunday, Feb. 7, 7 Stages, www.7stages.org

The Pretty Girl Hideout Thursdays is tonight, hosted by Mook Dahost, Soul Bar at Pal’s Lounge, 254 Auburn Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30303, www.traxxgirls.com

UPCOMING SATURDAY, FEB. 6

My Sister’s Room presents Love to Love, a lesbian singles mixer by Atlanta Womyn to Womyn, 5–8 p.m., www.mysistersroom.com Bring a great dish and plenty to talk about to the Lesbian 50+ Potluck and Social, 6–8 p.m., Rush Center Annex, www.rushcenteratl.org

SUNDAY, FEB. 7

Friends on Ponce hosts a Chili Cookoff and Super Bowl watching event, 4 p.m., www.friendsonponce-atl.com

TUESDAY, FEB. 9

Join Atlanta Pride and Touching Up Our Roots for the second annual Our Founding Valentines to recognize Atlanta’s LGBTQ trailblazers. Recognized will be Mona Bennett, Charlie Brown, Dee Dee Chamblee, Judy Colbs, Jesse Peel, Duncan Teague and Ray Kluka (posthumously). The event is free and open to the public. Hors d’oeuvres will be served and there will be a cash bar for ages 21 and over. 6:30–8:30 p.m., Bantam + Biddy, 3393 Peachtree Rd, Atlanta, GA 30326

www.thegeorgiavoice.com

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

By MELISSA CARTER

Meeting God face to face It has been 20 years since I was a member of any church, and several since I’ve actually sat in one. Issues regarding my sexuality are the main reason for this absence. It wasn’t always that way and one member of my family still stands as the example of how a Christian should be.

I grew up Protestant and was very active in my church throughout my childhood.

Sunday school, youth group, and choir were standard parts of my routine, and because of my long blonde hair I was typecast as the angel for every Christmas play.

It wasn’t until puberty hit, and I realized I was gay, that I became sensitive to the language of the sermons. After hearing one too many pastors in high school and college outline the path to Hell for those who weren’t straight as an arrow, I decided church wasn’t worth the frustration it caused me.

That abandonment was tough for me, since before I became the target of the church’s judgment I was quite happy there. I not only enjoyed the weekly ancient biblical tales, I also loved the people within the building. I grew up with them. I hated the thought that their love was so conditional when it came to me.

Shortly after I began to sleep in on Sunday mornings I knew I had to come out to my family. I had not been honest about who I was, and after moving to Atlanta I knew it was time to grow up and own my authentic self. The person I was most intimidated to tell was Dad. A former basketball player, my father was about 6 feet 2 inches tall and had served in the Korean War. He was a big personality but quite distant at home, so he and I rarely had in-depth conversations. Add to that his dedication to discipline and strong work ethic, and I had the perception he would not be thrilled with my confession and was quite petrified by the idea of telling him. I wasn’t a coward, and his influence taught me that regardless of my fear I would have to look him in the eye and show him who I was.

That happened at a Wendy’s, of all places.

We had stopped to grab lunch while on an www.thegeorgiavoice.com

“After all those years of attending church, all those stories I read in the Bible, and all the conversations I had about religion, this was the most Christian moment I’ve ever experienced in the presence of what a true Christian really looks like.” errand, and I took advantage of our alone time. I let him know about me, and even confessed that of everyone in the family I thought he might be the one who was most likely to reject me. His response?

“Jesus wouldn’t have rejected you, so why should I?” After all those years of attending church, all those stories I read in the Bible, and all the conversations I had about religion, this was the most Christian moment I’ve ever experienced in the presence of what a true Christian really looks like. An old-school Southern athlete and veteran, someone born in a time of not only homophobia but also racism, held his spiritual focus on the actions of one person and followed suit. I was never so proud to be his daughter.

My father passed away in 2001, and I am grateful I had the opportunity for that conversation before he left this earth. If I ever find a sanctuary full of people like him with arms open to welcome me back into the fold, I’ll set my alarm for Sunday mornings again.

Melissa Carter is one of the Morning Show hosts on B98.5. In addition, she is a writer for the Huffington Post. She is recognized as one of the first out radio personalities in Atlanta and one of the few in the country. Follow her on Twitter@MelissaCarter January 22, 2016 Columnists 25

SOMETIMES ‘Y’

By RYAN LEE

Praying for a teenage boyfriend Not surprisingly, my first religious awakening was triggered by a boy. My family practiced a generic Christianity where we prayed before out-of-town car trips and when we wanted something. We bought sharp outfits for our once-a-year worship service on Easter, thanked Jesus whenever something good happened, and knew sin was bad and that we didn’t want to burn in Hell forever.

I wasn’t certain whether we were Catholic or Christian (or both) but I remember stewing in adolescent envy because my older sister had been baptized and I had not. Baptism had something to do with getting into heaven, my sister taught me, and I was already paranoid about my prospective afterlife.

As little as I knew about God, I was of course aware he didn’t approve of some of the things I did with other little boys. How odd— or clever—for God to later use my sodomitic lust to bring me further into his kingdom.

The thoroughfares in my childhood neighborhood had at least two churches per block, although it wasn’t until I was 16 that I met someone from our neighborhood who attended one of them. Patrick moved to Englewood that spring, presenting himself as a dope-slinging, basketball-playing, pretty-boy thug.

Patrick and I were inexplicably antagonistic toward each other during his first few weeks in the neighborhood, but by summer we were even more inexplicably best friends, which I hopefully filtered through a romantic outlook. Contrary to his ‘hood persona, Patrick had been the valedictorian of his eighthgrade graduation, attended a private, all-male Catholic high school and served on the usher board at Second Birth Missionary Baptist Church—Major E. Robinson, presiding.

I thought Patrick’s churchgoing was sexy, and cherished learning about his true self versus what he projected to most people. I feared the end of summer would squelch our friendship/fling, and, desperate to extend the intimacy that was developing between us, I shared with Patrick how I wanted to strengthen my relationship with Christ; but, with so many churches to choose from, it was hard to sift the

“So Patrick began picking me up on Sunday mornings, or sometimes I would spend the night on Saturdays since we would have to be at church early the next day— Patrick for Sunday school, and me for new members’ class. I went on a born-again bonanza!” ones that were spiritually legit from those that operated as pastor-enrichment centers.

So Patrick began picking me up on Sunday mornings, or sometimes I would spend the night on Saturdays since we would have to be at church early the next day—Patrick for Sunday school, and me for new members’ class. I went on a born-again bonanza: I got baptized (finally!), joined the choir and, representing the “new generation” of Second Birth, delivered a rousing speech during the church’s anniversary.

I wanted to be the type of Christian who could pepper his conversations and observations with Scripture, wishing for a correlation between my devoutness and the strength of the bond between me and my best friend/boo. I hadn’t received official confirmation that God hated homosexuals, as Pastor Robinson thankfully avoided the topic in sermons, and I was far too closeted to walk into the new members’ class and say, “So tell me about the gay stuff.”

Patrick and I did not grow into lovers, but rather drifted apart in a few years with an, appropriately, inexplicable bitterness, and a tangible, mutual regret. He is now a millennial ghost, a reunion I yearn for with someone who has seemingly left no digital trail.

I am equally distanced from Christ, or any god, although that is not a relationship I miss. Still, I am grateful for precious memories of those Sunday mornings when, “My beloved spoke and said to me, ‘Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, come with me.’”

(Song of Solomon 2:10, NIV) Ryan Lee is an Atlanta writer.

26 Columnists January 22, 2016 www.thegeorgiavoice.com

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