10/08/21, Vol. 12 Issue 14

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HAPPY PRIDE

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georgia VOL.12 • ISSUE 14

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EDITORIAL

The Fluidity of Sexuality Katie Burkholder

tboyd@thegavoice.com

EDITORIAL

Editor: Katie Burkholder

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Editorial Contributors: Conswella Bennett, Cliff Bostock, E.R. Burns, Melissa Carter, María Helena Dolan, Michael Dubin, Jim Farmer, Buck Jones, Ryan Lee, Orlando Montoya, Duane Reynolds, Fletcher Varnson

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4 Editorial October 8, 2021

When I became deputy editor of Georgia Voice, I wrote an editorial disclaiming that I was a straight ally of the LGBTQ community. Over the course of the year-and-a-half since, that has changed.

I first thought I could be bisexual about a year ago, shortly after writing said editorial.

Understandably, it took a while for me to come to terms with it. At the time, I was in a five-year-long relationship with a man, and I was terrified of formally coming out as bi because I didn’t want to come across as appropriating the identity. I’ve never been in a public-facing relationship with anyone other than a man, and queerness didn’t shape my experiences growing up. This is because I didn’t consider myself to be closeted; I genuinely was straight for a very long time. I didn’t have secret crushes on my girlfriends.

I didn’t push down romantic and sexual feelings for women; I simply didn’t have them. So, I was worried I might be wrong — what if it was just a phase? I was hesitant to identify as bisexual when I had lived my entire life with the privilege of not facing the violence and denial of self that so many queer people are subjected to.

With a longtime interest in feminism and the social constructions of gender and sex, I pursued a minor in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies while in college. It was in these courses that I learned the ins and outs of heteropatriarchy, and as I compared my college notes to my own experiences with sex and attraction, things started to add up for me.

In my late teens and early twenties, I experienced an abundance of repression; I was terrified of being both myself and a sexual being (thanks to abstinence-based sex education and a feeling of sexual obligation to my partner at the time). I struggled with a lack of sexual interest to the point that I thought I was asexual while simultaneously obsessing over male validation via attraction to me. In short, I wasn’t as interested in men as I

PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / MAXIM ERMOLENKO

was interested in them being attracted to me, as it made me feel like a real, valid woman.

Even the men I did find myself attracted to were fundamentally incompatible with me because they were emotionally distant and uncommunicative where I was overly emotional and highly communicative.

As I worked through these issues I had with men and my own self-image in therapy, I started to seriously question my sexuality.

I looked back on my own experiences with women, particularly in media, and realized that I had, just as all of us have, fallen victim to heteronormativity, or the dominant understanding of straight as the “default” sexuality and all others as “deviations” from the norm. What I would now deem as attraction I used to label jealousy.

I saw a beautiful woman and became overcome with desire; but shaped by a toxic understanding of womanhood informed by heteropatriarchy, I mistook these feelings as a desire to be her instead of with her.

Despite this, I don’t see my bisexuality as something that I’ve unveiled after being hidden all my life. I see it as something that has evolved. I have grown and let my true self expand, and with that, my sexuality has expanded as well.

Amia Srinivasan, author of the essay “The Right to Sex,” recently spoke about the fluidity of sexuality on the Ezra Klein podcast (the episode is called, “Can We

Change Our Sexual Desires? Should We?” — give it a listen!). She spoke about the concept of “fixed sexuality” (otherwise known as “born this way” rhetoric) as a means of protecting queer people’s sexual lives from moral inquisition. While positing same-sex attraction as something people are born with has helped sway public opinion in a more LGBTQ-friendly direction, Srinivasan notes that this understanding of sexuality doesn’t fit every experience.

Nonheterosexuality shouldn’t only be valid if it is fixed or finite. We should be working toward a world that allows for exploration, where attraction isn’t first understood as heterosexual until proven otherwise.

Although sexuality can and often does change, however, it is not malleable; you cannot force it to change. That’s why conversion therapy is not only ineffective but harmful, because when you force someone to change who they are, you thrust them into a space of shame.

Shame is the antithesis of acceptance and love, two things that are necessary when fostering a healthy and happy sexuality and overall relationship with yourself.

Coming out as bisexual, to me, means emerging from a space of shame, self-denial, and repression. It marks my rebirth as a woman who no longer relies on men to feel good about herself, doesn’t see other women as her competition, and finally knows that no one’s gender prevents them from being the object of her attraction.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

CELEBRITY CLOSE-UP!

Celebrity Briefs

In honor of Pride in Atlanta, some of our favorite native Georgian celebs discuss coming out and celebrate their professional successes.

“It’s funny to think about coming out, because I haven’t gone anywhere. I view today as a reintroduction to me as a woman, having made a transition medically. Coming out is always viewed as this grand reveal, but I was never not out. Today is about clarity: I am a trans woman.”

—Tommy Dorfman on coming out as trans (Time)

“I felt like I should be myself. If I should be successful, I don’t want to be successful based on someone’s imaginary view of me. I want them to know the real me, and if they don’t like it, they should leave now, as I’m not changing… Ultimately, I’m a lot more comfortable in my own shoes now that I don’t have to hide any part of me. Not that I ever said I wasn’t bisexual, but I never said I was, which was a cowardly way to live. I came into my own, and I’m going to be true to who I am.”

—Victoria Monet on coming out as bisexual on Twitter (Gay Times)

“To be very clear since so many people want to make a BIG fuss about it, I WAS THE FIRST EVER TRANS CONTESTANT TO EVER BE ON RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE FRANCHISE. [In] 2009 they casted me knowing I identified as trans. I didn’t present female at the time [because] I was in the early stages of my [hormone replacement therapy].”

—Kylie Sonique Love on season 2 of RuPaul’s Drag Race

“Just wanna say thank [yo]u again to every single person who gave my album a listen. So many people said I wouldn’t have a career after 2019 and now I have one of the biggest albums of the year. I love [yo]u guys and I do not take [yo]u for granted.”

—Lil Nas X on his new album “Montero” (Twitter)

6 Celebrity Close-Up October 8, 2021

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NEWS BRIEFS Staff reports APC Announces “Pride in Action Fund” Grant Recipients The Atlanta Pride Committee announced on Friday (October 1) the grant recipients for their brand-new initiative, the “Pride in Action Fund.”

The fund financially supports LGBTQ organizations that needed to rethink how they would connect with community members who need their services without the Atlanta Pride festival, which has been canceled for the second year in a row.

“We know that making the tough decision to cancel the in-person Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade this year impacted LGBTQ+ community organizations in various ways,” APC Executive Director Jamie Fergerson said in a press release. “With that in mind, we created the Pride in Action Fund to help financially support those organizations in their important work without the benefit of that platform.”

Over $12,000 will be distributed among the successful applicants immediately with this rapid turn-around fund. The call for applications was announced at the beginning of September, and the recipients below were informed this week, less than a month later.

The 2021 Pride in Action organizational recipients are Acceptance Recovery Center, All 1 Family, Atlanta Black Pride, Inc., Compassionate Atlanta, Disability Action Center of Georgia, Inc. dba DisABILITY LINK, For the Kid In All of US, Inc., SOJOURN: Southern Jewish Resource Network for Gender & Sexual Diversity, Trans Across Atlanta, Uprising at Virginia-Highland Church, and VOX Teen Communications (also known as VOX ATL).

11th Circuit: Big Tech Not Liable for Role in 2016 Pulse Nightclub Shooting A federal appeals court in Atlanta has upheld a decision finding social media companies aren’t liable in the 2016 Pulse nightclub mass shooting for giving the shooter access to ISIS propaganda found to have inspired the attack.

In a 31-page decision issued on September 29, a three-judge panel on the U.S. Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals found the trio of 8 News Briefs October 8, 2021

APC Executive Director Jamie Fergerson

Big Tech companies named in the case — Twitter, Facebook and Google — can’t be sued for their role in the shooting despite arguments they illegally aided and abetted the shooter under the Anti-Terrorism Act. “We are deeply saddened by the deaths and injuries caused by Mr. Mateen’s rampage, but we agree with the district court that the plaintiffs failed to make out a plausible claim that the Pulse massacre was an act of ‘international terrorism’ as that term is defined in the ATA,” the decision says. “And without such an act of ‘international terrorism,’ the social media companies—no matter what we may think of their alleged conduct—cannot be liable for aiding and abetting under the ATA.” The shooter, Omar Mateen, had declared allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, also known as ISIS and a designated foreign terrorist organization, which later claimed responsibility. Upon review after the attack, Mateen was found to have used Facebook to write posts and make searches about ISIS — and was even found to have been searching for ISIS content as he was perpetuating the assault.

The survivors and estates of the victims making up the 62 plaintiffs in the case argued the social media companies were liable under the Anti-Terrorism Act, which make criminal aiding and abetting in a terrorist attack.

But, as the 11th Circuit points out, ISIS, despite claiming responsibility for the attack, was never found to have engaged in planning the massacre, or was even aware of his plans, therefore not liable under the Anti-Terrorism

COURTESY PHOTO

Act. Instead, the court finds Mateen was “selfradicalized,” making a distinction between his attack and an act of international terrorism as defined under the law. $2 Million Grant Program to Help LGBTQ Restaurants, Bars The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce and the global online food delivery company Grubhub announced on September 22 that they have launched a $2 million grant program to provide financial support to struggling “LGBTQ+ owned and ally restaurants” adversely impacted by the COVID pandemic.

The newly launched Community Impact Grant Program is inviting restaurants and bars that qualify for the program to submit applications for grants up until October 12.

The grants are expected to range from $5,000 to $100,000 with NGLCC and its more than 50 affiliated LGBT chambers across the country playing the lead role in selecting which restaurants or bars are awarded the grants.

NGLCC said an LGBTQ-owned establishment such as a gay bar would be eligible to apply for a grant under the program if they offer a menu for serving food.

The statement announcing the launching of the LGBTQ grant program says the funds for the grants will come from a charitable program Grubhub started in 2018 called Grubhub’s Donate the Change program. It says the program asks customers receiving food delivered by Grubhub to “round out their order total and donate the difference,” with Grubhub matching eligible donations from its Grubhub+ members.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

Learn, share stories, connect, and celebrate LGBTQ joy during AARP's virtual Gray Pride Experience at Atlanta Pride.

Saturday, October 9, 2021 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Eastern Time

Register for this free virtual event at aarp.cvent.com/graypride21

NEWS

GLAAD Finds Zero “Excellent” LGBTQ News Sources in Georgia Fletcher Varnson

that levels of discomfort toward the LGBTQ population in the United States is at 43%, and in the South, discomfort reached 61%.

GLAAD has released its report on LGBTQ and HIV news coverage in the South, and its findings are troubling. Though the South is home to 35% of the United States’ LGBTQ+ population — the highest portion of any region in the country — many of the region’s publications have failed to publish fair and inclusive news coverage.

Willis cites this discomfort as one of the major reasons it is important to take GLAAD’S findings and apply them to journalistic and news broadcasting practices.

“One of the things GLAAD has hit hard on is how low the acceptance levels can be in the South, particularly for folks with HIV,” she said. “There’s a lot of stigma, particularly in the South, which is also a place where there are a lot of infections.”

To conduct research for the report, GLAAD analyzed newspapers and television news sources across the South between June 2019 and December 2020 and gave them a rating of excellent, good, fair, or poor.

These ratings were based on various metrics, including, but not limited to, the fair and accurate reporting of LGBTQ issues, the use of correct terminology, and refraining from using distortions of the LGBTQ community.

Of the Georgia news outlets GLAAD looked at, zero were considered excellent in terms of LGBTQ coverage, making it one of the worst rated states in the South. As Pride approaches, it is important to consider how news sources in the region and state can improve.

Transgender activist and media strategist at GLAAD, Raquel Willis, believes Georgia should start by focusing on increasing the quantity of publications about LGBTQ+ and HIV stories.

“A few factors that play a role in whether a newspaper or media outlet is doing its due diligence is looking at the number of stories,” Willis told Georgia Voice. “Are issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community being covered?

And that can be whether the story is based on identity or based on experience — for instance, living with both HIV and AIDS.” However, Willis points to more than the 10 News October 8, 2021

When it comes to Georgia specifically, Willis says recognizing Atlanta’s history is an important part of covering LGBTQ issues.

Raquel Willis

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

quantity of LGBTQ stories: she wants the quality and perspective of these pieces to accurately represent the community and the issues facing it.

“Are the right experts being tapped to lend credence to what is being reported?” Willis asked. “Is there a kind of awareness about the numerous factors of determination that LGBTQ+ folks face, whether we’re looking at disparities in unemployment, access to education, access to health care, food security, on and on?”

GLAAD’s report aligns with messaging. Specifically, the report the importance of how fair and reporting can help destigmatize and HIV-positive populations.

Willis’s reaffirms accurate LGBTQ

“Accurate reporting can also combat misconceptions about perceived protections or federal equality standards: Most Americans believe that LGBTQ people have federal protections in areas of life in which they do not, particularly in states across the South, where a majority of LGBTQ people live,” GLAAD CEO Sarah Kate Ellis said in the report. “The reality is that as of July 2021 there are no consistent and explicit federal antidiscrimination protections for LGBTQ people in housing, education, public accommodations, and many other areas of life.”

This type of destigmatization is crucial, given the degree of discomfort many still feel toward the LGBTQ population. GLAAD’s first Accelerating Acceptance report revealed

“One thing that is particularly important for a Georgia-based or Atlanta-based publication is that there is such a rich history of LGBTQ experience as resistance and leadership particularly within Atlanta,” she said. “So, it is very important for us to find ways to elevate the stories and the voices of LGBTQ people living there.”

“As someone who is from Georgia but has also lived in many places all over the country, it is often a major historical oversight of the strides that have been made in Atlanta,” Willis continued. “So, we got to know that history and got to know what’s currently happening with LGBTQ folks in Atlanta, and that’s going to pave the way for what is possible in the future.”

Indeed, Atlanta hopes to embrace its rich LGBTQ history during Pride. However, the power to keep on highlighting this history while embracing a more inclusive future is in the hands of news outlets that can take GLAAD’S findings and improve their coverage on LGBTQ and HIV issues.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

NEWS

LGBTQ Stephen Spring Receives Endorsement in School Board Election Katie Burkholder

Spring has a 52-year history with public education that began when he was only five years old. He spent nearly two decades teaching math and coaching school sports, and over those years learned “how to step up not only as a teacher, but also [the students’] parent, their nurse, their coach, their therapist, and their all-around advocate,” according to his campaign website. He also has experience serving as the Portland School Board’s policy committee chair and completed his doctoral coursework in Education Policy and Planning with a focus in Black studies.

Stephen Spring, an openly LGBTQ candidate for the Atlanta School Board, has received an endorsement from the LGBTQ Victory Fund.

The LGBTQ Victory Fund is the only national organization dedicated to electing LGBTQ people to public office and released their endorsement of Spring on September 24.

“LGBTQ Victory Fund is pleased to endorse Stephen Spring for Atlanta’s Board of Education,” said Mayor Annise Parker, the President and CEO of LGBTQ Victory Fund. “Spring’s commitment to smart public policy that addresses the real concerns

Stephen Spring

CAMPAIGN PHOTO

of constituents makes him the best candidate in this race. When he wins in November, Stephen will become a vital LGBTQ voice for equality in Atlanta.”

Spring is running for seat seven on the board.

If elected, Spring would be the second openly LGBTQ person on the Atlanta School Board in its 150-year history. His campaign priorities include educational equity through

the defunding of standardized testing, relevant programming and curriculum to empower schools with more autonomy, and reallocation of taxpayers’ dollars to the point of learning: in the classroom.

Spring is among six other Georgia candidates endorsed by the LGBTQ Victory Fund, including Liliana Bakhtiari for Atlanta City Council, Robin Biro for Mayor of Tucker, Stephe Koontz for Doraville City Council, Kelly-Jeanne Lee for Atlanta City Council, Alex Wan for Atlanta City Council, and Matthew Wilson for Georgia Insurance Commissioner.

A full list of the LGBTQ Victory Fund’s endorsed candidates can be found at VictoryFund.org.

Learn more about Spring’s campaign at SpringBoard2021.com.

Investigation into Katie Janness Murder Remains Fruitless, Community Honors Her Memory Katie Burkholder It’s been over two months since the gruesome murder of Katie Janness, and still very little information is known about the crime.

Janness and her dog Bowie were found stabbed to death in Piedmont Park on July 28 by her partner of six years, Emma Clark.

Both her and Bowie had been stabbed multiple times, ad Janness was “gruesomely disfigured,” according to the GoFundMe page raising funds in her honor.

“The first thing I noticed is I saw Bowie,” Clark told 11 Alive about finding Janness.

“He was visible from the gate of the park. He was maybe 50 feet from the gate inside and she was further on the right. I ran in and I grabbed him because I didn’t know, maybe he 12 News October 8, 2021

was still alive. Obviously, I knew something was wrong because he was just laying there.

I didn’t put two and two together because I didn’t notice her right away.”

Janness was 40 years old and a bartender at the LGBTQ-owned restaurant Campagnolo.

Only a few days after she was found, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) confirmed they were assisting in the investigation. The FBI’s involvement with the case prompted many to speculate online on the possible existence of a serial killer. However, Clark has expressed frustration over these kinds of rumors, telling 11 Alive that it is “very upsetting” for her to see these kinds of speculations online.

On August 6, Atlanta Police Homicide investigators released additional surveillance of a jogger in the area who was a potential witness. The jogger came forward and

information on a suspect.

In the interim, the community has stepped up to honor Janness’ memory and make the park a safer place for all. A GoFundMe has raised more than $1,200 to put toward planting a tree and buying two memorial benches at the park in her honor. The Piedmont Park Conservancy also launched a new safety initiative, called the Safe Haven Fund, designed to provide funding toward new safety initiatives for Piedmont Park.

The fund has raised more than $45,000.

Katie Janness and her dog Bowie COURTESY PHOTO

has spoken with the homicide detectives investigating the case. Since then, however, the case hasn’t progressed much publicly; Atlanta police haven’t released any

As for the City of Atlanta’s response, the Atlanta City Council approved the installation of 250 new surveillance cameras in the city’s parks and recreations facilities, which is scheduled to happen by the end of the year.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

New Staging!

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NEWS

Community Calls for Reforms to Atlanta Pride, APC Responds Katie Burkholder

many years,” Fergerson said. “The package includes a confidentiality agreement along with a disclosure of any conflicts of interests.

Confidentiality is a basic requirement of directors in fulfilling their fiduciary requirements to the organization.”

Following the cancellation of in-person Pride events by the Atlanta Pride Committee (APC) back in August, community members are speaking out against the organization and calling for reforms to the organization and its policies and management.

Reforming the Board Blanket NDAs aren’t the only issue members of the community have with how the board is run. On September 25, the board met to vote on changes to the organization’s bylaws.

One such change concerns how board members are voted on. Currently, everyone who is a part of APC’s full membership has the right to vote on candidates for the board that are selected by the APC Nominating and Review Committee. The bylaw change would remove this vote from the membership, thus effectively making the board self-appointing.

On September 16, a group of about 20 led by My Sister’s Room owners Jen-Chase Daniels and Jami Maguire and James Nelson, the owner of X Midtown, met at My Sister’s Room to discuss issues they had with the APC’s internal processes.

The meeting, which was also broadcast via Facebook Live, was an open forum allowing the community to discuss their issues with how the APC is run — with a particular focus on the process for electing board members, NDA requirements for board members, and overall transparency.

In attendance was Sean Cox, the former board chair of APC. However, he wasn’t instrumental in organizing the meeting. In an interview with Georgia Voice, Cox said he attended to call out anybody who lied and “add some clarification.”

According to Daniels, APC Executive Director Jamie Fergerson was invited, but declined because of a scheduling conflict.

No current APC board members were in physical attendance, but Vice Chair Justin Gavette-Boring watched via Facebook Live and participated in the live chat.

The meeting culminated in a letter sent to APC on September 20 containing a list of questions and demands. The letter was intended to be hand-delivered to the APC office, but according to a Facebook post from Daniels, “no one was there.” The letter was left in the building, instead. The letter requested that a response be made before an TheGeorgiaVoice.com

Atlanta Pride

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

APC board meeting on September 25. No public response to the letter has been made.

The letter is quite lengthy, including a total of 26 questions, demands, and comments.

However, three themes from both the letter and the meeting stood out.

Ending NDAs The letter requests that APC discontinue blanket nondisclosure agreements that members of the board and other members of the organization are required to sign. These NDAs prohibit members from discussing any APC matter that has not already been disclosed publicly.

“It is understood that certain specifics cannot be discussed prior to announcement or bind contracts,” the letter reads. “Those confidential matters should be labeled as such [instead of having] an overreaching NDA. Transparency and the right to free speech and sharing of ideas by any Board

Member and any person of the Membership should respectfully be embraced by Atlanta Pride as a representative of, and to, our community.”

Cox told Georgia Voice that these blanket NDAs were one of the main issues he saw with how APC is run.

“This is a public organization,” he said.

“This is not a private business. It belongs to the community … Nonprofits shouldn’t have NDAs like this.”

While the community finds issue with these blanket NDAs, Fergerson told Georgia Voice that this practice “has been in place for many years” in order to keep board members aligned with their fiduciary responsibilities to the nonprofit.

“Atlanta Pride board members agree to abide by a comprehensive ethics package each year. This policy has been in place for

“Making Atlanta Pride a self-perpetuating Board would be detrimental to Atlanta Pride and further limit the support of the community and community sponsors by not supporting transparent and inclusive elections by the people of the community,” the letter reads.

While this meeting has already happened, it is unclear whether this change was voted on. Georgia Voice requested a copy of the meeting’s minutes from APC, but they had not yet been approved. The copy of the bylaws on APC’s website have not yet been updated since September 26, 2020.

The letter also expressed discontent with how board candidates are selected by the Nominating and Review Committee.

According to Cox, around 30 people applied to be on the ballot in 2019, but only a handful were chosen. Among those denied CONTINUES ON PAGE 20 October 8, 2021 News 17

NEWS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

“‘The community is asking for clarity regarding the lack of headline entertainment to help draw more attendees [to] the festival,’ the letter reads. ‘Is it a lack of fundraising?

Mismanagement of funds? Chicago Pride is a week before us and has the likes of Chaka Khan, Tiesto, and DJ Gryffin … Overall, why is Atlanta Pride’s lineup of celebrity entertainment not as robust compared to other large cities?’”

include Tony Kearny, who has extensive experience organizing with Planned Parenthood Southeast and is a former Atlanta Pride board member, and Staci Fox, the president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Southeast. Because neither Kearny nor Fox could be said to be inexperienced, their denial from the ballot calls into question the requirements for candidates.

“The requirements [for board candidates] need to be objective, not subjective,” Cox said. “They need to be posted in advance, it needs to stop being a good-ol’-boy network where people who know people get put on the ballot.”

When asked about the process for electing board members, Fergerson pointed Georgia Voice toward this year’s application. According to the application, APC strives to make sure the board “is comprised of diverse community members, including allies, who are best poised to serve the needs of the organization and our current strategic priorities.” However, there are no specific requirements listed. Questions on the application cover experience sitting on a governing board, volunteer commitments, organizational affiliations, and skills.

Applicants are also able — though not required — to say whether they were referred by any past or current APC board members or nominated by any community partners or APC members.

Complaints with the Atlanta Pride board and Fergerson’s leadership aren’t new. In 2019, outside tax attorney Patti Richards of the Richards Law Firm advised the organization to undergo an audit, make changes to the “clearly dysfunctional” board, and replace Fergerson, stating that the organization had “lost its mission/purpose” in an internal memo and organizational review. Cox stepped down as board chair the same year after an attempt to remove Fergerson failed by a 7–6 board vote.

The above issues are reflective of the major problem the community appears to have with APC: a perceived lack of transparency. Of the 26 questions and demands, many relate to transparency, requesting information on election processes, APC’s 2020 financial records, names and rates of contractors and 20 News October 8, 2021

APC Executive Director Jamie Fergerson

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

consultants hired in 2019 and 2020, and people who are part of the membership and the Nominating and Review Committee.

with the cancellation — especially as large, ticketed events like Music Midtown were still held.

In response to a question asking how APC upholds transparency, Fergerson said, “Our bylaws, tax return, and audit are published on our website annually — usually in October or November. This material is publicly available at Guidestar.org. Board meetings are also open.”

Fergerson said that the event was canceled “out of concern for community health after consulting with numerous public health and medical experts.” According to the press release announcing the cancellation, APC consulted with “Atlanta Pride Medical Directors, Dr. Jason Schneider, and Dr. Eliot Blum, as well as renowned and internationally respected public health expert Dr. Carlos del Rio, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, leaders of local hospital systems, and other public health officials.”

Making a Better Pride Overall, the letter demands a better Pride that reflects the community’s desires. One complaint that has been lodged against Atlanta Pride consistently is over the entertainment lineups over the years, which the letter addresses.

“The community is asking for clarity regarding the lack of headline entertainment to help draw more attendees [to] the festival,” the letter reads. “Is it a lack of fundraising?

Mismanagement of funds? Chicago Pride is a week before us and has the likes of Chaka Khan, Tiesto, and DJ Gryffin … Overall, why is Atlanta Pride’s lineup of celebrity entertainment not as robust compared to other large cities?”

As this is the second year Pride has been canceled due to COVID-19, many have also expressed disappointment and frustration

However, the more concerning issue to many is that the decision was made “without outreach to the community,” according to the letter. Furthermore, individuals who registered for the festival and parade signed contracts that had a 10 percent retained payment clause for any cancellation. This caused some to speculate that APC knew for longer than they’ve expressed publicly that the event would be canceled but continued to urge the community to register in order to keep 10 percent of the revenue.

“The Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade was on track to proceed as planned until the delta variant surge of COVID-19 in midAugust,” Fergerson said of the cancellation.

“Our vendors and entertainment lineup were booked, our volunteers were in place, and we had exceeded our fundraising targets necessary to host the event. Like most other Prides in the country, we made the difficult decision to cancel the Festival and Parade for 2021 out of respect for our community and concern for public health. Market vendors and parade participants have a choice between a 90% refund or a full rollover of their entries to 2022. The policy was outlined in the terms and conditions posted this spring, and retained funds cover expenses already incurred by APC in relation to the Festival and Parade including credit card processing fees and refund processing fees.”

InterPride, an LGBTQ organization that keeps track of Pride events worldwide, recently released the results of a survey it conducted of 201 worldwide Pride organizations to find out the type of Pride events they were planning for this year. The findings show that the largest number — 40.8 percent — reported they would be holding both in-person and virtual Pride events, 35.3 percent of the Pride organizations planned just in-person events this year, and 19.9 percent planned only online or virtual events. Only 4 percent didn’t plan any events this year or canceled them like Atlanta did.

Overall, this community-led push for reform reveals a disconnect between APC and the community it serves that — should all the demands and questions be met — would require a complete overhaul of the nonprofit.

You can find the full letter on our website, TheGaVoice.com. You can read APC’s bylaws at www.atlantapride.org/about_ us/the_bylaws.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

Find Your Way Home!

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

October 8, 2021 The Pink Page 21

NATIONAL NEWS

Biden Rounds Out Team to Take on HIV/AIDS Domestically, Globally “The focus of the appointees on the domestic front will be the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative, a plan heavily focused on PrEP as a means of preventing HIV in an effort to reduce new incidents of infections by 90 percent within 10 years. The program was launched in 2019.”

Chris Johnson, Washington Blade courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association With the goal of beating HIV by 2025 domestically and a pledge for a renewed effort to fight the disease globally, President Biden has put in place officials charged with making that happen.

The White House announced that John Nkengasong, who has served as a top official on global health at the Centers for Disease Control, would be nominated as ambassador-at-large and coordinator of U.S. government activities to combat HIV/AIDS globally at the State Department.

Meanwhile, leadership within the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS, otherwise known as PACHA, was restructured in August as the Biden administration has continued the Ending the HIV Epidemic plan health officials started in the Trump administration.

Carl Schmid, who served as co-chair of PACHA during the Trump years, no longer holds that position, and has been replaced

by Marlene McNeese, a woman of color and deputy assistant director of the Houston Health Department. John Wiesman, former secretary of health for Washington State, will continue to serve as co-chair.

McNeese is among eight new members of PACHA. The others are: • Guillermo Chacón, president of the Latino Commission on AIDS; • Tori Cooper, director of community engagement for the Transgender Justice Initiative at the Human Rights Campaign; • Raniyah Copeland, CEO of the Black AIDS Institute; • Leo Moore, medical director for clinic services at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health; • Kayla Quimbley, national youth HIV 22 National News October 8, 2021

President Jor Biden

PHOTO COURTESY OF CNN

and AIDS Awareness Day ambassador for Advocates for Youth; • Adrian Shanker, founder and executive director of Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center; and • Darrell Wheeler, senior vice president for academic affairs at Iona College in New Rochelle, N.Y. The changes underscore the new approach to HIV/AIDS Biden promised during his presidential campaign. Among them is beating HIV/AIDS domestically by 2025, which is five years earlier than the plan under the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative that began in the Trump administration. Whether or not Biden will meet that ambitious goal remains to be seen.

Ebola, COVID-19 and more, position him extremely well to guide the United States’ global contribution towards ending the AIDS pandemic,” Byanyima said. “Today, the HIV and COVID-19 pandemics are colliding in communities throughout the world, and the threat of a resurgent AIDS pandemic is very real. We need the kind of bold thinking and commitment he has brought throughout his career.”

While the global AIDS appointment will have a role in international programs, such as PEPFAR and U.S. participation in the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis & Malaria, the PACHA appointments will focus on both domestic and global perspectives.

Schmid, executive director of the HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute, said despite the change in leadership he will maintain his role as head of the subcommittee on the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative.

Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS, hailed the nomination of Nkengasong to the global AIDS position upon news of the announcement.

“It’s good,” Schmid said. “They appointed a lot of African-American community, Latino community [members] and they said they’ll rotate co-chairs. I think it’s good that they put on new blood, and new leadership.”

“John Nkengasong’s vast experience in combatting HIV, combined with his position as Africa’s leading disease expert fighting

Schmid has been a vocal skeptic about Biden being able to meet his goal to beat HIV by 2025 — as opposed to the 2030 target set

by the previous administration — but said the realignment in PACHA was “not at all” related to that.

“I think I was replaced because the Biden administration wanted the leadership of PACHA to be more representative of the current epidemic in the United States,” Schmid said.

‘Too early’ to gauge effort to beat HIV domestically The focus of the appointees on the domestic front will be the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative, a plan heavily focused on PrEP as a means of preventing HIV in an effort to reduce new incidents of infections by 90 percent within 10 years. The program was launched in 2019.

Although Congress has appropriated money for the initiative, and just last week, the Department of Health & Human Services distributed $48 million to HRSA centers as part of the effort, experts say not enough data is available to tell to whether or not the program has been effective.

Jennifer Kates, senior vice president and director of global health & HIV policy at Kaiser Family Foundation, said data isn’t yet available on whether new incidents of HIV are reduced because the latest data is from fiscal year 2019.

“From the perspective of the timeline of the goals of the initiative, it’s too early, we wouldn’t know that anyway, but just even given the context and what’s happened since it started, I just don’t know how you’d evaluate it,” Kates said. “What I do believe is important though, is the idea of dedicated new funding. It was the first new funding provided to HIV for years that’s been channeled to local jurisdictions [and] has the potential to catalyze new and better responses, but we don’t know yet that’s happened.”

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

PRIDE

Pride Weekend Round Up Katie Burkholder

Brothers’ Dragula” winner Landon Cider, hosted by Wussy Mag! Tickets start at $25 for general admission and $40 for a VIP meet and greet with Adore Delano. Buy your tickets through Ticketmaster.

Atlanta Pride may be canceled, but Pride weekend is still in full swing! The community has stepped up to provide a full weekend of events, from drag shows to late-night parties.

Take a gander at what this weekend has to offer and start filling in your calendar ASAP.

A Big Queer Cabaret!

9 p.m.

Metropolitan Studios

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 8 Eagle Pride Night Warm Up Party and F*ck It Friday

Who doesn’t love a cabaret? Enjoy performances from a myriad of local and regional burlesque, drag, and visual artists, including Ebony DeLight, Roula Roulette, Sin Tillating, Ella/ Saurus/Rex, Talloolah Love, Yutoya Avazé León, and Montañita. This event is part of A Queer’s Day Night!, hosted by Metropolitan Studios and Atlanta Fringe Festival. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased via Eventbrite.

Doors open at 8:30 p.m. Can’t make it on Friday? This event will be held at the same time on Saturday, October 9. Masks and proof of vaccination are required.

7 p.m.

The Hideaway

Warm up for a night of dancing and fun at The Hideaway’s outdoor bar with DJ Ron Reum before partying with DJ Mister Richard at 10 p.m. No cover charge!

Fantasy Girls RuPride Friday 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Future Atlanta

An amazing line-up of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alumni are kicking off Pride weekend at Future!

Catch performances from Kylie Sonique Love, Detox, LaLa Ri, Trinity K. Bonet, Phoenix, and Raquel Rae Heart at this amazing event hosted by Taejah Thomas. Meet and greets start at 7 p.m. and showtime is 8:30 p.m. on the main dance floor (standing room only).

Tickets are $15 for admission and $50 for the meet and greet. Proof of vaccination or negative COVID test is required. Buy tickets at Future-Atlanta.com.

Saturday, October 9. Masks and proof of vaccination are required.

animals at the aquarium. Buy tickets at GeorgiaAquarium.org/OutNight.

Gay History for Straight People with Leola Ladyland

Out Night 2.0: Let Your Pride Glow

Glow Party and Silent Disco

7 p.m.

Metropolitan Studios

Leola Ladyland, a Kelly Clarkson-obsessed, redneck senior citizen, breaks down the wonderful world of gayness in this event, part of A Queer’s Day Night! weekend produced by Metropolitan Studios and Atlanta Fringe Festival. This TED Talk-style comedy performance guides you through the gay alphabet, from anal beads to unicorns.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased via EventBrite. Can’t make it on Friday?

This event will be held at the same time on 24 Pride October 8, 2021

The Circus Starring Derrick Barry 10 p.m.

X Midtown

WUSSY Pride with Adore Delano (pictured) and Landon Cider

7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Georgia Aquarium

Even though the festival and parade aren’t on tap this weekend, the event formerly known as the Atlanta Pride Kickoff Party still is! Dance to music from DJ Brett Oosterhaus, DJ Neon, and DJ Vicki Powell and enjoy legendary ballroom performances from members of the House of Balenciaga.

General admission tickets are $45 and include two drink tickets valid for cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks. Ticket sales benefit the care and conservation of the

PHOTOS VIA FACEBOOK

8 p.m.

My Sister’s Room

Loosen up with an open bar from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. before dancing the night away.

Buy tickets for $20 or a three-day pass to MSR’s Pride weekend events for $75 through Eventbrite.

WUSSY Pride with Adore Delano and Landon Cider 8 p.m.

The Loft

Catch performances from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” icon Adore Delano and “Boulet

Kick off Pride weekend by partying with the ringleader herself, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum Derrick Barry. This event is part of X Midtown’s Pride Weekend Block Party.

Tickets to the block party are $100 and can be purchased at Facebook.com/XMidtown.

Madams of the Moonlight 11:30 p.m.

Midtown Moon

The Midtown Moon madams are joined by special guests Tameka X, Mohka Montrese, Tasha Long, and Tommie Ross with this special event hosted by Myah Ross Monroe.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 Xion Pride 3 a.m. to 7 a.m.

Future Atlanta

Looking to keep Friday night’s party going?

Head over to Future to party with millennial CONTINUES ON PAGE 29 TheGeorgiaVoice.com

PRIDE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 duo J Warren and Joe Pacheco as they make their Pride debut! Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at Future-Atlanta.com.

Bottoms Up! A Drag Brunch 1 p.m.

City Winery

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum Adore Delano and “Boulet Brothers’ Dragula” winner Landon Cider join Wussy Mag for the Pride edition of the boozy brunch. Other performers include Nicole Paige Brooks, Brigitte Bidet, Coco Iman Star, Ivy Fischer, and Jarvis Hammer.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m., and proof of vaccination is required. Tickets start at $40 and can purchased at CityWinery.com.

Drag Storytime with Brent Star 2 p.m.

Facebook Live – Atlanta Fringe Festival

Brent Star reads your kiddos children’s stories at this free family-friendly virtual event. This event is part of A Queer’s Day Night!, hosted by Metropolitan Studios and Atlanta Fringe Festival.

Pride Saturday Parties 2 p.m.

The Hideaway

Enjoy an afternoon of music from DJ Bill Berdeaux, food trucks, and drinks at the outdoor bar starting at 3 p.m. After 7 p.m., DJ Rob Reum gets the party started with the Twilight T Dance before DJ Darlene takes over at 10 p.m. with the Pride DecaDance.

on LGBTQ rights. This event is part of A Queer’s Day Night!, hosted by Metropolitan Studios and Atlanta Fringe Festival. Masks and proof of vaccination are required.

Ruby Redd’s Sunset Cabaret: Pride Edition 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Midtown Moon

Special guests Trashetta Galore, Lena Lust, and Heather Daniels join the Midtown Moon girls for this extra special Pride cabaret.

Fantasy Girls RuPride Saturday 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Future Atlanta

An amazing line-up of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alumni are kicking off Pride weekend at Future! Catch performances from Kandy Muse, Trinity K. Bonet, Shawnna Brooks, Cici Nicole, and Extasy Grey at this amazing event hosted by Destiny Brooks. Meet and greets start at 7 p.m., and showtime is 8:30 p.m. on the main dance floor (standing room only). Tickets are $10 for admission and $50 for the meet and greet. Proof of vaccination or negative COVID test is required. Buy tickets at Future-Atlanta.com.

Block Party and Silent Disco 8 p.m.

My Sister’s Room

Party with three stages of music indoors and out by DJ Mary Mac, DJ K2, DJ Wulf, DJ Rocky the Babe, and DJ Amethyst. Buy tickets for $20 or a three-day pass to MSR’s Pride weekend events for $75 through Eventbrite.

Queen Butch Pride Tea

Pride Kiki with Aquaria

Join the Grammy Award-nominated DJ/ Producer and house legend Todd Terry, as well as Ree De La Vega and William Francis, for this outdoor tea dance! Proof of vaccination is required. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased through Eventbrite.

NYC nightlife vixen and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” winner Aquaria comes to Atlanta for a live DJ set and meet and greet hosted

by Wussy Mag! Proof of vaccination is required. Tickets start at $20 and can be purchased through Eventbrite.

COLORFUL: A Queer Arts Panel Discussion

Stars and Legends Party

2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The Heretic Atlanta

5 p.m.

Metropolitan Studios

Get educated this Pride! This free panel will feature a variety of artists as they discuss the intersections of queerness and creative expression and the social impact of art TheGeorgiaVoice.com

10 p.m to 3 a.m.

591 Edgewood Ave SE

10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

X Midtown

Dance the night away to the musical stylings of DJ Escape and catch a performance from the legendary drag queen Kameron Michaels! This event is part of X Midtown’s Pride Weekend Block Party. Tickets to the

Drag Storytime with Brent Star block party are $100 and can be purchased at Facebook.com/XMidtown.

The Divas and The Divo 11:30 p.m.

Midtown Moon

Tasha Long, Mohka Montrese, Tommie Ross, and Tameka X join the Midtown Moon divas for this incredible drag show hosted by Myah Ross Monroe. Parking is free, and there’s no cover to get in!

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10 Dark Dominion 3 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

BJ Roosters

Pride means you dance until the sun rises!

Enjoy sexy dancers and great music from DJ Kurtis Jose and international DJ and producer Breno Barreto. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased through Eventbrite.

Pride Sunday Block Party Noon X Midtown

Close out the weekend with a day party featuring DJ Chris Cox and Dave Aude! This event is part of X Midtown’s Pride Weekend Block Party. Tickets to the block party are $100 and can be purchased at Facebook. com/XMidtown.

Bottoms Up! A Drag Brunch 1 p.m.

City Winery

Enjoy a delicious boozy brunch with performances from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” winner Aquaria, Nicole Paige Brooks, Aspen

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

York, Drew Friday, Ellasaurus Rex, and Royal Tee. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., and proof of vaccination is required. Tickets start at $40 and can be purchased at CityWinery.com.

DILF Atlanta Pride Parties by Joe Whitaker Presents 3 p.m. to 3 a.m.

The Heretic Atlanta

Enjoy a day full of hot music, hot men, and hot fun! The DILF “Out and Proud” tea Dance kicks off the day before the DILF “Proud FuKR” Closing Party rounds out the night at 9 p.m. Enjoy music from DJ Max Bruce, DJ James Anthony, and the Perry Twins. General admission starts at $20 for each party and $35 for both and can be purchased via Eventbrite.

Pride Day Party at MSR 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

My Sister’s Room

Enjoy brunch with DJ Wulf as well as drag performances from Drew Friday, Coco Iman Star, Raquel Heart, and Syraja at 4 p.m.

Buy tickets for $20 or a three-day pass to MSR’s Pride weekend events for $75 through Eventbrite.

Pride Closing Party at MSR 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.

My Sister’s Room

Close Pride weekend out with performances from the Hellfire Harlots, DJ Mary Mac, DJ Ksquared, DJ Amethyst, and DJ Rocky the Babe. Buy tickets for $20 or a three-day pass to MSR’s Pride weekend events for $75 through Eventbrite.

October 8, 2021 Pride 29

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

(bik-TAR-vee)

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:  Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:  Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.  Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.  Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.  Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.  Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.  The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:  dofetilide  rifampin  any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you:  Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.  Have any other health problems.  Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.  Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:  Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.  BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other.

Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION  This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.  Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5  If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, KEEP ASPIRING, and LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2021 © 2021 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0369 04/21

BVYC0369_BIKTARVY_B_10X10-5_GeorgiaVoice_Dimitri_r1v1jl.indd All Pages

DIMITRI LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 2018 REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT

KEEP ASPIRING.

Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

See Dimitri’s story at BIKTARVY.com.

Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

3/31/21 12:27 PM

PRIDE

Bike Through Atlanta’s LGBTQ History Orlando Montoya As LGBTQ people out and proud in Atlanta today, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. Pride is a time to celebrate that history, and pedaling is a good way to do it.

“There’s always something else to learn,” says Charlie Paine, your guide on Atlanta’s new Queer History Bicycle Tour.

Offered by Bicycle Tours of Atlanta, this leisurely bike ride trails through several in-town neighborhoods and covers about a century of important LGBTQ people, places and events. Themes include the AIDS crisis, religion, drag history, the fight for civil rights, and the contributions of LGBTQ residents to Atlanta history.

There’s a lot to cover, so keeping the tour at three hours and nine miles has been a priority for Paine and Bicycle Tours of Atlanta company owner Robyn Elliott, who had the idea to start an LGBTQ bike history tour about three years ago, at about the same time she started offering a civil rights bike tour.

“You can’t talk about civil rights and social justice just inside the black and white story,” Elliott said. “It’s important for me to tell all of our history and not just those parts of history that make people comfortable.”

She had the idea for the tour, but not who would run it, until she met Paine through mutual friends.

The Queer History Bicycle Tour

COURTESY PHOTO

you didn’t live it, you probably don’t know it.

“When we go to Inman Park, we talk about Robert Griggs, the guy most people talk about when they think of Inman Park, but he also was gay,” Elliott said. “We want to highlight people who, maybe their achievements were known, but who they were wasn’t.”

Griggs, an Atlanta designer who died in 2009, began the restoration of Inman Park in the 1960s when he bought a run-down house on Euclid Avenue and fixed it up. He later won a Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation.

Paine chairs Historic Atlanta’s LGBTQ History Preservation Committee, which works to raise awareness of — and save sites associated with — LGBTQ history.

The tour also goes to a house at 811 Ponce de Leon Place NE, the “scene of the crime” in what became the landmark case Bowers v. Hardwick. The crime at the time was two men having consensual sex. The case went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, and how the story unfolded is truly flabbergasting today.

So, what can you expect to learn on the tour?

As is the case for so much LGBTQ history, if

There’s also a stop to learn about Coretta Scott King’s involvement in LGBTQ rights

“After talking with him, I realized that he would be the perfect person to make this happen,” Elliot said.

32 Pride October 8, 2021

and some other heavy topics. But the heavy parts are balanced by healthy doses of what I’ll call “drag magic.”

“RuPaul comes up on the tour at the Atlanta Eagle because most places that have a tie to him have either been demolished or significantly altered,” Paine said. “Many people attribute the beginning of his career experimenting with drag to that building.”

RuPaul Charles moved to Atlanta when he was 15 and later started go-go dancing in the building most recently home to the Atlanta Eagle. At the time, it was called the Celebrity Club.

It’s impossible not to have fun when talking about go-go dancers, drag and nightlife in general.

“People interact with each other and bring their own fun, too,” Elliott said of the tour.

And let’s not forget the endorphins! It just makes you feel good to finish those hills and coast down the other side.

“We do want to make sure it’s something everyone can enjoy, so we did, at one point, shift the route just a little bit so it was less hilly,” Paine said. “I do think we’ve narrowed down the route, and I’m very excited to go out there every time.”

Bicycle Tours of Atlanta provides the bikes, helmets and snacks. Electric bikes are also available for an upcharge. Prepare for a moderate workout and a celebration of this less-explored side of Atlanta’s history, something outside the usual Atlanta tour.

“Most people don’t know any of this unless you happened to grow up in the city when it was happening and you were part of the LGBTQ community,” Elliot said.

And even then, there’s always something else to learn!

Atlanta’s Queer History Bike Tour costs $65 a person and is offered select weekends throughout the year. To register and for more information, visit BikeToursAtl.com.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

Photography: @Hollywood_Bruisers (Gabriel Goldberg) @TomOfFinlandFoundation

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PRIDE

Kia Barnes Blends Comedy with Activism Conswella Bennett

“It feels very empowering and liberating to get to be a part of change that I so badly needed when I was in the classroom,” she said.

Over the past few years, Kia Barnes has been a leading party promoter and activist in the city of Atlanta. The well-known lesbian is living her life as a masculine-presenting woman who is unapologetically queer.

Barnes left the classroom about five years ago because of the discrimination and overwhelming stress surrounding her sexuality. Now, she gets to rewrite student and staff handbooks and have a seat at the table for policy changes and decisionmaking. “I’ve come full circle,” she said.

For the second year in a row, Atlanta Pride has decided not to host the much-anticipated event due to the lingering COVID-19 pandemic. Like many in the community, Barnes is sad that Pride won’t be held, but she doesn’t wait until this month to show off her pride. Through her promotions and activism, she constantly brings and promotes events that highlight the uniqueness, pride and diverseness of the LGBTQ community.

“Pride means owning everything about who I am,” Barnes told Georgia Voice. “Walking in your truth. Pride means honoring those who fought for our rights. Pride is unity.”

The former Atlanta middle school and high school teacher once known for roasting her students and turning the classroom into a mini comedy club took her friends’ advice and did a comedy show a few years ago. It was love at first laugh.

“Comedy comes very naturally to me,” she said with a smile. She would go on to promote her own comedy shows, and it was then that she realized she could attract a crowd. So, it was an easy transition to add “promoter” to her repertoire.

According to Barnes, her events are parties with purpose. Yes, there’s a DJ playing the latest hits and mixes and a dance floor filled with guests moving their bodies to the beat and drinking their favorite cocktails. But she has also offered panel discussions and has even paused the music for political candidates like Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, District 6 Atlanta City Council Member Alex Wan, Representative Park Cannon, and others to talk to the crowd about upcoming elections or bills to vote on.

Barnes works for two LGBTQ-owned businesses, My Sisters Room (MSR) and 36 Pride October 8, 2021

Also known for her fashion sense and signature fedora, Barnes also promotes an Andro Fashion Show. The show is an opportunity to feature LGBTQ fashion designers and models but also to portray masculine women in a different light.

Kia Barnes

COURTESY PHOTO

Apache XLR, hosting and promoting events. Her goal is to “create a safe space for queer entertainers to perform to welcoming audiences.” Comedians, singers, and musicians have told her their horror stories of playing straight venues and either being booed while on stage or mistreated at those venues.

At both MSR and Apache XLR, Barnes said all the events are LGBTQ-centered. “We are unapologetically queer no matter the response,” she said. Besides the typical dance parties, Barnes also puts on a music showcase at Apache XLR every fourth Saturday of the month. All the artists who perform are LGBTQ or allies.

“I want a lesbian to sing about loving a woman and a boy to sing about loving a boy and not worry about losing the audience,” Barnes said of her goal to provide a diverse range of entertainment for the community.

Beyond that, she says her events are welcoming to everyone ages 21 to 101.

She also has a huge following among the deaf community, and there are even guests in wheelchairs who come out and dance sometimes, incorporating their chairs in moving to the beat of the music. It’s her mission to make everyone feel accepted

and welcome by ensuring all her events are accessible to people with disabilities.

Through her popular, crowd-drawing parties, music, and comedy shows, Barnes’s activism and sense of community shine through, which is why she is a member of the city’s LGBTQ Advisory Board.

She said she sees herself as a liaison bridging the gap between an often-underrepresented community of Black queer women and their concerns with city leaders and also educational leaders. It’s often at one of her events that participants will come to her and talk about various issues, areas of concern, or things that are lacking, and she is able to take those concerns to the mayor’s office. She has also sought out other opportunities to share the voice and needs of the Black queer masculine-of-center women by attending various events hosted by other LGBTQ organizations, such as Southern Fried Queer Pride and the Human Rights Campaign.

The former English/language arts and theater teacher who was once discriminated against because of her sexuality and former marriage to a woman now also sits on the Atlanta Public School’s LGBTQ Taskforce.

“We are talented,” Barnes said. “We are intelligent. We are contributing members of society.” The Andro Fashion show features the many facets of masculine-presenting women from a variety of sizes and styles.

Although it has been a while since the last fashion show was held, Barnes said there are plans for another.

As Barnes reflected on her own coming out in her early 20’s, she recalled the repercussions of members of her college, sorority sisters, and other school organizations she belonged to not handling the news well – so much so that she left college for a while and worked Disney’s College program for a year. It wasn’t that long ago that many LGBTQ members living their truths did so during a time of ostracism and discrimination. But she has seen the positive changes and how members of the community are now more readily acceptable.

For anyone still struggling to come out or accept their sexuality, Barnes says that “it gets so much better when you are walking in your truth… Be bold and walk in your truth. Nothing feels better than being unapologetically yourself.”

Learn more about Kia Barnes at her website, KiaBarnes.com, or on social media @kiacomedy.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

October 8, 2021 Ads 37

PRIDE

The Theory of Love E. R. Burns

I would like to introduce myself to all the lovely readers of Georgia Voice. My name is E. R. Burns. I am a recent graduate of the University of Georgia, a struggling author, and a recently liberated member of the alphabet mafia. Over the course of the last year-and-ahalf — locked away from the world and fresh out of a toxic relationship with a long-time on-again-off-again partner — I was forced to truly examine myself for the first time in my life. During that time, I fell out of love, fell in love with myself, and then found the woman who brought it all together.

After meeting her, I started receiving all these signs, as cheesy as it may sound.

Recommended articles, TikTok videos, Twitter threads — all about the Theory of Love. That was the basis for this story, and the more I was told about this theory, the more I wanted to examine the truth of it.

Surely, I thought, it was not applicable to everyone. Yet the more I thought back on my previous relationships, the more truth I found in it. I had fallen in love three times, and each time I learned something new about myself. In this story, I will tell you about my three loves, how I experienced each one, and how, through them, I was able to figure out both my sexuality and what love should be.

•••• Three. The magic number. The holy number. A balance of harmony, wisdom, and understanding. A representation of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Past, present, future. Birth, life, and death. Hades, Poseidon, and Zeus. The three sisters of fate.

Dawn, day, and dusk. Reduce, reuse, recycle.

I think you get the point.

They say you fall in love three times in your life, and each one represents something entirely different. Three times, and only one of them is ever meant to last. Now, I’ve known people who fell in love with one person and spent their entire life in love with them. I know others who swear never to fall 38 Pride October 8, 2021

IMAGE BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / ALENA KOZLOVA

in love, to live in their freedom for the rest of their days. This theory is just that: a theory.

But when I heard it, I couldn’t help but stop and reflect on my own experience with love.

1. The One that Looks Right “False face must hide what the false heart doth know.”

—William Shakespeare

I was only 15 when I met number one. He was tall and dark and handsome — as handsome as one could find in a small Georgia town.

He was all the things young girls are told to find when they read Seventeen magazine.

He had his own car, his own money, and he looked dashing on my arm at every dance and party and in every social media post.

We were picture-perfect.

From the outside perspective, skewed by social media, we were perfectly in love, but the reality was much darker. We were young and immature, and while his father figure was less than ideal, the anger he took out on me was never excusable. I was the victim of his jealousy and rage, on a constant roller CONTINUES ON PAGE 42 TheGeorgiaVoice.com

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“We as women are taught at a young age to value our chastity above all, to give it only to the person we intend to be with forever. Clinging to the far outdated concept of virginity to stay with a boy who used the concept of love as a weapon broke me.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38 coaster of him breaking my heart and then threatening suicide if I didn’t take him back.

I loved him with the kind of love that is born of obligation and naivete, but I knew we would never last. He was the one that worked for the moment, the one that taught me what I didn’t want. We looked beautiful through the window, but the inside of the house was burning to ashes.

2. The Difficult One “Years of love have been forgot, in the hatred of a minute.”

—Edgar Allan Poe

It is unlike anything else I have ever felt, unlike anything I was ever told I would experience. Where once I felt like I was standing in the middle of a burning forest, enjoying the heat of the flame but praying to God it didn’t burn me, I now find myself in a field of melting snow. The spring air is bringing forth cherry blossoms from the trees, and the sun is warming my face despite the coolness that surrounds us. I fell in love, real love, for the first time, and it was with my best friend. She understands everything.

She allows me to be myself. She makes me feel more comfortable in my own skin than anyone ever has. My twin flame. My soulmate. My beginning and my end. My magic number three. The one that lasts.

Number two was the boy your mother warned you about, the one your father couldn’t stand, and the one your friends begged you not to get involved with. But when you’re 16 and pretty blue eyes are telling you how beautiful you are, you believe them. He was forbidden fruit, and I was Eve, ready to strike a deal with the devil.

Apparently, I had learned very little from his predecessor, because the on-again-off-again only got worse. We would have explosive breakups only to come back together in fits of passion like those idolized on the big screen. This was love, I thought. This is what the main character gets. She takes the bad boy and makes him good just for her.

Seven years. Seven years of back and forth, dating other people and being less than faithful to them. Seven years of thinking this was the answer; that he was my one and only.

We as women are taught at a young age to value our chastity above all, to give it only to the person we intend to be with forever.

Clinging to the far outdated concept of virginity to stay with a boy who used the concept of love as a weapon broke me.

He was my first. But he was with someone else at the time. I fell asleep in his arms that night, and he told me he loved me more than anyone. I thought we finally made it to the part where it all falls together. But in the morning, he got dressed, kissed my lips, and told me not to tell a soul before he got in his 42 Pride October 8, 2021

PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / YANA ATCHORI

car and drove back to her. I had given him everything, and he left me still.

It wasn’t until I truly felt his absence that I understood that love was not supposed to hurt. Yes, the line between love and hate is thin, but no relationship should ever have you standing with a foot on either side. I promised myself, after him, I would never again love someone who made it impossible to love myself.

3. The One that Lasts “I love her, and that’s the beginning and end of everything.”

—F. Scott Fitzgerald I didn’t think I had it in me to ever love again when I met Her. She who is far more than a number in my story, far more than

a statistic in the records of my heart. She who made me understand what exactly love was meant to be. Tall, fair, and absolutely breathtaking. She is not what society, my parents, or my religion told me I was supposed to want. Yet she is everything I never knew I needed. Loving her is pure and soft, where my past loves were tainted with toxicity and toughness.

When we first met, we were both in the closet and fitfully in denial of our feelings for one another. We had both only ever been with men, yet when I looked into her eyes as she described her writing with such passion, I knew that I would never want anyone else ever again. I fell in love with her in pieces.

First with her mind, then her demeanor, then her heart. Still, every day, I find something new to love.

Every single one of us has experienced love in some form or fashion, and with it often comes a certain degree of pain. Through trial and error and putting my heart on the line, I learned that love, real love, is supposed to be easy. Notions of butterflies and electric passion are pushed onto us, when in reality, those butterflies are often a warning that we should not feel safe. Passion doesn’t only have to follow an argument. You should not have to convince yourself every day that you’re in love with someone.

I never thought that I would find my missing piece in a woman, and yet I have never felt more sure of anyone in my life. Love will come in many forms, but what that love looks like, in what gender it’s packaged, does not matter. All that matters is that it is safe and comfortable and makes you excited to return home to it. When you find it, that love is the one that will last.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

PRIDE

Spotlight on Transgender History-Maker Tori Cooper Katie Burkholder

by HIV as well. Our rates for HIV diagnoses are very similar to Black [men who have sex with men]. We’re a smaller community, so the impact in many ways is even greater.

Tori Cooper is an inspiration. The transgender activist has dedicated her life to transgender and HIV/AIDS organizing that has landed her a history-making position on the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/ AIDS (PACHA). Cooper sat down with Georgia Voice to discuss the new position, her work with the Human Rights Campaign’s Transgender Justice Initiative, and how she’s fighting to give everyone a seat at the table.

We know that for folks who have untreated HIV can lead to worse health outcomes and lower lifetime earnings. We know that there are a bunch of systems that are not capable yet of addressing our trans bodies. I also know as a Black trans person that I need to bring transmasculine and masculine-ofcenter nonbinary folks into my meetings to make sure that every time we make a recommendation to the Biden administration that it is incorporative of all our voices.

Quotes have been edited for clarity.

Tell me about your background in HIV organizing.

I’ve been in HIV [organizing] for a long, long time. I did some volunteering as a teenager, and then back in the early ’90s I helped to make flyers and distribute condoms at Pride parades around HIV education. I was making sure that folks were making the best decisions for themselves, and then it just continued. In my mid-30s, a good girlfriend of mine who’s the executive director of Nationz Foundation in Richmond, Virginia, wanted to do a CDC intervention for some of the folks in the community. She invited me to be a co facilitator with her, and that was my first time using my voice to advocate for HIV — and I haven’t shut up since!

Now you’re the Director of Community Engagement for the Transgender Justice Initiative for the Human Rights Campaign. What does the TJI do?

The TJI operates under four pillars: capacity building, strategic communication, economic empowerment, and public safety.

We do job fairs and opportunity fairs so that trans and nonbinary people have access to gainful employment even during a pandemic. We also do a fatal violence 44 Pride October 8, 2021

Tori Cooper

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

report every year where the TJI reports on the numbers of trans and nonbinary folks that have been killed and provides a little backstory that attempts to humanize folks. In addition to that, we don’t just talk about trans and nonbinary folks if they’ve been killed or victims of violence. We’re intentional to strategically communicate with folks in the media about who trans people are to counteract some myths.”

We are also in our fourth quarter of our Lyft partnership, in which $45,000–$60,000 this year alone has been given in grants to community partners so trans and nonbinary folks across the country can get free and safe rides to medical appointments, the store, and rallies and marches. We also have Elevate and Activate leadership academies and fellowships where we provide leadership training and skills building and capacity building assistance for trans BIPOC leaders across the country.

How does it feel to make history as the first Black trans woman on the PACHA? It is incredibly humbling, and I believe this makes me the highest ranking Black trans person in the federal government! But there’s a lot of responsibility that comes with it, and that means I take a lot of people in every meeting with me and make sure I stay connected to the folks at ground level who will never get the opportunity to serve on PACHA. I understand that this is a huge [opportunity], and I do not take it lightly.

What will you advocate for while on the Council?

It’s important for me as a Black trans woman to make sure that I’m incorporating the voices and stories of folks who are like me and folks who aren’t just like me. It’s important that I make sure the voices of transgender women, and more specifically the voices of Black and BIPOC transgender women, are heard because we’re disproportionately impacted

Because it’s Pride in Atlanta, I have to ask: what does Pride mean to you?

I wrote an op-ed for the Huffington Post a few years ago called “Why Pride Month Looks Different for Trans Women” that goes into it, but Pride means to me that folks, wherever they fall in the rainbow family, are all acknowledged and affirmed for who we are.

Is there anything you’d like to add or plug?

We want to make sure all your readers are aware of the Equality Act and how important it is. The Equality Act is one of the things that will allow some protections for trans folks and nonbinary folks so that it helps to end some of disparities we face. It helps to provide protection in employment and protections so that trans folks can’t be evicted simply because of who we are. Also, stop killing Black trans women!

Learn more about the Transgender Justice Initiative at hrc.org/campaigns/ transgender-justice-initiative and the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/ AIDS at hiv.gov/federal-response/pacha/ about-pacha.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

PRIDE

Atlanta Ballet Announces New Openly Gay Executive Director “While working with the Atlanta Ballet, West plans to combat the exclusivity that can be common in the arts world by prioritizing diversity and equity.”

Katie Burkholder After a nearly two-year hiatus brought about

by COVID-19, the Atlanta Ballet is coming back to the stage with a new executive director.

After a five-month-long national search, Atlanta Ballet has named Tom West as the organization’s new executive director. West has experience in arts management spanning more than 20 years that started with a childhood passion for the arts.

“I have been in love with the arts from the time I was a kid, and I don’t come from an arts family,” West told Georgia Voice. “I have very Southern parents, and I was this oddball kid loving theatre, loving dance, loving music, and they did not know what to do with me!

The arts have always been a passion.”

West studied acting and directing as an undergrad before going back to school to get a master’s degree in arts administration from American University when he was around 30 years old. Since then, he has performed leadership roles at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and most recently the American Film Institute.

“Tom’s extensive experience in successful fundraising, board development, and governance combined with his knowledge and understanding of the benefits that the arts offer our community are invaluable,” Atlanta Ballet Artistic Director Gennadi Nedvigin said in a press release. “He has a kind and calm demeanor yet has the ability to inspire an energetic and productive atmosphere with his fresh, dynamic leadership approach based on the collective experiences of everyone in the room. I look forward to merging his distinguished professional background and valuable connections with our existing strategic vision to expand our reach within the digital world, 48 Pride October 8, 2021

Tom West (right) with Artistic Director Gianni Nedvigin.

the metro Atlanta area, the state of Georgia, and beyond.”

Along with being a longtime lover of the arts, West is also an openly gay man — two parts of himself that are connected.

“If you can understand what is really beautiful to someone and really terrible and heart wrenching to someone, then you can start to connect with them as a person – and the arts do that,” he said. “Growing up gay in the South in a very religious household — with, by the way, very accepting family — the sense of otherness was something I grew up with and carried through a lot of my early professional career. When you can start to convey that [emotion] onstage in a way that people feel emotion and can start to relate in a different kind of way than the labels we put on each other, then people actually have a chance of coming together. That’s what I think the arts do: they make us better. They help us understand each other better, they help us come together, they shock us by

COURTESY PHOTO

seeing parts of the world we don’t see.”

While working with the Atlanta Ballet, West plans to combat the exclusivity that can be common in the arts world by prioritizing diversity and equity.

“There are and have been a lot of obstacles to participation in the arts,” West said.

“Thankfully, over the last five years, the arts community has come to recognize that diversity and equity and inclusion should be core values. If you’re only seeing one perspective on stage, we’re not connecting people from different cultures. We’re not doing the things the arts are supposed to do.”

is for everybody,” West said. “Everybody, regardless of cultural history or ability, has the opportunity to feel the power of the expression of dance and to dance in their own way. When you get to come and see someone do it at a level that is so excellent — these dancers are superhuman, it’s incredible — people can start to come together and hopefully see themselves reflected on the stage. That’s something that’s really important to us.”

Not only is Atlanta Ballet coming back from the pandemic with new leadership, they also have an exciting lineup of performances returning to the stage, including “The Nutcracker” from December 4 to 30, “Snow White” from February 4 to 6, “Firebird” from February 11 to 13, and “Giselle” from March 18 to 20.

Overall, West says he’s excited both for the future of Atlanta Ballet and his future in Atlanta.

The Atlanta Ballet combats these obstacles with initiatives like “Decade 2 Dance,” which supports the next generation of Black and Brown dancers by offering young performers training, mentorship, and academic support.

“”I’m excited to be here, and I’m excited to get to know the broader community and the gay community here,” he said. “I want the LGBTQ community to know that the ballet is a place where we want everybody to feel welcome.”

“One of the things that the arts struggle with is the perception of exclusivity, but dance

Learn more about Atlanta Ballet at AtlantaBallet.com.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

YOUR VOICE

The Hydra Head of COVID-19 Michael Dubin, Counselor at Living Skills, Inc. According to Greek mythology, the Hydra is a nine-headed gigantic snake-like monster.

Like the Hydra, there have been many faces to COVID-19’s impact. For some, it has been as traumatic as losing a loved one. For others, it hasn’t been more than a major inconvenience.

Unfortunately, Hercules has not been available to come and rescue us from this monster.

We’ve been forced to save ourselves.

PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

For people who are more introverted like me, COVID-19 has given us the gift of time.

The exile imposed by COVID-19 allowed me time to read, think, meditate, reflect, and enjoy the peace that came with the slowing down of the outside world. That said, I was not immune to the crushing fact that our desires for life to return to normal were not going to be answered anytime soon. Over the course of the last 20 months, my life and I have changed profoundly in ways that I couldn’t have foreseen or imagined.

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50 Your Voice October 8, 2021

For the more extroverted among us who thrive on social interaction, being around others, and engaging in out-of-the-house activities, it has been a particularly tough time. Unable to safely and freely move about and be on the go, separated from the touch of friends and loved ones, missing favorite activities, and having to find new ways to have fun and connect has been difficult. Some have slipped into depression.

Others have felt hopeless or helpless or even a sense of despair. Some have gotten angry. That anger has been directed in a variety of ways: Anger toward politicians. Anger toward those who sought to protect themselves by wearing masks. Anger about getting or not getting the vaccines. Anger toward others getting or not getting the vaccines.

Life has changed. Many would say that it’s the result of COVID-19, but many of the changes in our world have been brewing for a long time. Old structures — whether they be media, health care, politics, education, international relations, supply chains, etc.

— are breaking down, and we don’t yet have new structures to replace the old. Order

will eventually emerge from the chaos, but right now we don’t know what that world will look like. That’s bringing up a lot of fear and anxiety and stress in people. COVID-19 only added to that.

Many people felt that they and/or their world was in crisis. The demands put on them — to help stop the spread, to stay home, to give up many of life’s pleasures — were coming too quickly to process. Their daily routine had been disrupted, and things just weren’t working the way they were supposed to.

But we did what we needed to do — we established new routines, processed the changes one step at a time, and handled the new demands coming from every facet of life as best we could.

Many of us were confronted with the fact that just because something had worked in the past — our jobs, relationships, hobbies, perspectives, and goals — didn’t mean it would continue to work. Things that we had taken for granted were stolen. Our health, safety, survival, relationships, joy — even our ability to purchase paper towels — could no longer be counted on in quite the same way.

Spouses and families had to spend real time together. For some, the increased contact only strengthened the already existing closeness and bonds. Others found themselves looking at loved ones and wondering, “Who are you?”

Many people discovered a desire for more work/life balance. Some found new and alternative ways to make money and survive.

Others moved to new places — whether out of choice or by necessity. Many are currently seeking new jobs for better working conditions, more money, or just something new.

COVID-19 also forced people to deal with themselves and those close to them in ways that they may have avoided before. Some people began to rethink what really matters and what is important to them.

Some began to look at their relationships and question whether they were still important.

People began to get on our nerves — like spouses or friends or relatives who we only kept in touch with out of a sense of obligation.

We clearly saw what and who we treasured, and we realized what we had outgrown.

We can’t begin to cover all the changes COVID-19 has wrought in the world. For so many of us, it forced us to come face to face with several important questions. Is this all there is? What now? What’s next? Do I want something more or new or different?

Do I deserve more or new or different? Do I dare ask for that?

Luckily, the answer is “yes.”

Living Skills offers positive psychology counseling, spiritual counseling and life coaching services in Atlanta and online, including for the LGBTQ community.

Sessions available by Skype. Please email us at livingskillsinc@gmail.com or visit www.livingskills.pro. Podcast: “The Problem with Humans” now available on Buzzsprout, Google Podcast, and Spotify.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

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YOUR VOICE

Queer Black History is Still Being Made Duane Reynolds, Founder and CEO of Just Health Collective Many unsung Black heroes have shaped American history by claiming their space as queer activists, politicians, humanitarians, doctors, lawyers, educators, and more. In an America that, no doubt, reinforced their inferiority and questioned their right to live free of oppression, many of these individuals persisted, prevailed and paved the way for many marginalized communities to demand equality. These brave individuals celebrated their sexuality, gender identity and expression despite what society may have told them. In fact, the bravery and prowess of icons like Marsha P. Johnson are inextricably tied to the dawn of the LGBTQ civil rights movement.

Their contributions are even more important today as new generations of queer youth look to find themselves represented and succeeding despite the odds. The reason we

54 Your Voice October 8, 2021

take the time to recognize these individuals is not for their benefit, but for the validation that we exist, that we matter and that we too can live in our greatness.

Back in 2010, I happened upon the story of Bayard Rustin while surfing TV. Brother Outsider: The Life of Bayard Rustin introduced the personal and professional life of a gay activist leader in the African American and LGBTQ civil rights movements. Rustin served as a trusted advisor to Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and was a key architect of the 1963 March on Washington. Despite his valiant efforts during this time, Rustin was not properly recognized for his mark on history as a result of being openly gay. However, in 2013 President Barack Obama posthumously awarded Rustin with the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He was not celebrated during his life, and President Obama said, “No medal

can change that, but today we honor Bayard Rustin’s memory by taking our place in his march toward true equality, no matter who we are or who we love.” The contributions that Rustin made, as an openly gay man, provide a source of strength and example for today’s youth, especially those Black gay boys who are so often taught to hide parts of themselves that may not be considered traditionally masculine.

I love revisiting the lives of history makers like Marsha P. Johnson and Bayard Rustin.

But what I love even more is the modern-day contributions of Black queer leaders who are rising to new heights of recognition and success, driven by a commitment to impact the world in a positive and lasting manner.

People like Principal Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, an American political campaign organizer, activist, political commentator, and author. Jean-Pierre is

a graduate of the New York Institute of Technology and received her MPA from the School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University. She recently served as chief of staff for Vice President Kamala Harris’ vice presidential campaign and is now a member of the Biden administration — making her the second Black woman and the first lesbian to speak at a White House briefing. This sister is shattering the glass ceiling, and I’m here for it!

Duane Elliott Reynolds is the Founder and CEO of Just Health Collective, LLC. Through the Just Health Collective Village online community, Just Health Collective guides organizations in creating cultures of belonging, enabling a fair and just opportunity for everyone to achieve optimal health. For more information, please email info@justhealthcollective. com or visit www.justhealthcollective.com.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

EACH /OTHER MARIE WATT

CANNUPA HANSKA LUGER

09.25.21 – 12 .12.21

CARLOS. EMORY.E D U # CARLOSMUSEU M

UPCOMING CONCERTS

Cannupa Hanska Luger (Mandan, Hidatsa, Arikara, Lakota, European) and Marie Watt (Seneca and German-Scots), Each/ Other, 2020–2021. Steel, wool, bandanas, ceramic, leather, and embroidery thread. © Cannupa Hanska Luger and Marie Watt.

Photography © Denver Art Museum.

Organized by the Denver Art Museum and presented with the generous support of the National Endowment for the Arts, The Robert Lehman Foundation, Stelo, and Native Arts and Culture Foundation. In Atlanta, this exhibition has been made possible with generous support from the Charles S. Ackerman Fund, the Carlos Museum’s National Leadership Board, Lauren Giles, Gail and Clark Goodwin, the Grace W. Blanton Lecture Fund, the LUBO Fund, and Sarah Hill.

LEONIDAS KAVAKOS, violin and YUJA WANG, piano Tuesday, Nov. 2 at 8 p.m.

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October 8, 2021 Ads 55

THE GAYLY DOSE

The Gayly Dose Reflects on Pride The cast of The Gayly Dose comment on evolving the gay experience forward here in the LGBTQ capital of the South. Bennett, Dante, and Helmut share their past, present, and future reflections while realizing just how precious Pride truly is.

Looking Back on Pride of the Past Bennett Schnyder I marched in the Atlanta Pride Parade before I even came out of the closet. At the time, I worked for a local radio station and was scheduled to march with our brand-new morning show.

I remember feeling simultaneously excited to experience Pride, but also terrified.

Questions were swirling around my head at 1,000 mph: Would being around other gay people out me? Was I scheduled to work that day because, on some level, my employer already knew?

After the march, the one thing I knew was this: the overwhelming support shown that day was a powerful force that encouraged me to finally make another step in accepting my sexuality.

Atlanta Pride showed me that even in a state that shows aggression toward our community, there is a sanctuary in our city.

It showed me, even more than a decade ago, that I could be myself and still be loved and cherished by others and respected in the professional world. Today, I’ve coordinated corporate involvement in the parade for my company for the past four years. I do this for the kids who are hoping to find acceptance in the workplace even if they are LGBTQ. Pride Today Dante Rhodes Despite not having a parade or festival this year, there will be no shortage of pride in who we are. We have overcome numerous hurdles and challenges, and moving forward, there are so many milestones we have yet to achieve. The reason Pride is so precious is because there’s a certain spark you feel knowing that you 56 Columnist October 8, 2021

COURTESY PHOTO OF THE GAYLY DOSE CREW.

are being celebrated for the thing that has possibly tortured you for some part of your life, especially in the South.

Pride is hosted to uplift a marginalized community and push us to our purpose of being communal in the way we love, uplift, and celebrate each other. Parade or not, we find ways to celebrate in our own special ways. Whether it’s congregating with your closest comrades or donating to an organization like Lost-n-Found Youth, it’s all done for the same purpose. For me, there is purpose in Pride and there is joy in the pride I have in queer people everywhere.

A Future Filled with Pride Helmut Domagalski As a parent, I have a built-in tie to the future that I often take for granted. Yet, as I contemplate the future of Pride, I think about how important it is to invest in chosen children. If you’ve watched episodes of Netflix’s “Pose,” you can easily see how the decisions and sacrifices of others have brought us so very far.

If we are allowed as individuals to selfactualize early in life and make decisions that do not have to conform to societal norms, we are able to experiment and learn quickly as a people. This enables our sector of society to innovate, create truly, and perfect new and progressive ways of existing. Our future Pride should continue to celebrate these advances and seek ways to integrate our best and brightest ideas into the rest of society. But this will not be easy. We will need to continue to focus ourselves on some key areas:

“Ensuring we balance our love for ourselves with our love for these others will keep Pride as something that pushes every human forward into a brighter, more brilliantly gay future!” opportunity to advance civilization.

4. We must acknowledge our place alongside the straight community. Our advances are lost if they are not balanced with the rest of the majority whose offspring will be our future.

Ensuring we balance our love for ourselves with our love for these others will keep Pride as something that pushes every human forward into a brighter, more brilliantly gay future!

Happy Pride!

1. We must continue to press for true love and acceptance across race and letter in our community.

2. We must urgently seek intergenerational connections despite our biases. It is only through chosen children that we can pass down our learnings into the culture of tomorrow.

3. We must elevate our thinking beyond what simply lies in front of us. Being gay is MORE than your sexual orientation; it is a calling, an ability to focus ourselves on unique aspects of living, and it presents an

Helmut, Dante, and Bennett are the voices of The Gayly Dose, an Atlantabased podcast with an all-gay cast. Unique in its mission and follow-on format, weekly episodes are known for their real conversations — featuring real live guests — about things that matter to the community and their listeners. Purposefully candid and brutally honest, the cast speaks on a range of topics including monogamy, body issues, coming out, dating apps, and growing up gay in the church. Listen at thegaylydose.com.

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October 8, 2021 Ads 57

MARÍA HELENA DOLAN REELING IN THE YEARS

“Let It Be Known that Homosexuals Are Not Cowards” María Helena Dolan Your land has been overrun by a rabid pack of voracious uber-jackals, and their slavering jaws are slowly pulling everything and everyone inside out. The border is closed. What do you do?

A. Put your head down and hope someone else is executed

B. Report anyone belonging to groups the invaders hate

C. Fight back In May 1940, the Wehrmacht drove tanks into Netherlands — neutral Netherlands, where Queen Wilhelmina had provided the Kaiser with asylum after World War I. Now she fled to London, where she ran the people’s government-in-exile.

On the ground in Netherlands, one of the first Nazi mandates was that all artists in all disciplines must register with the Chamber of Culture (Kulturkammer). If not, buying a tube of paint or selling a sheet of music were forbidden. Why this measure? To prevent the spread of Cultural Bolshevism—Modernist and Progressive and anti-fascist propaganda.

Tine van Klooster

were damaged, but sympathetic firemen ensured that much of the remaining paper was rendered useless by the hoses directed into the place.

Willem Arondeus

Regrettably, the participants were betrayed, but they inspired more and greater resistance by ordinary citizens. Willem Arondéus gave us these famous last words: “Homosexuals are not cowards.”

HISTORIC PHOTO

‘unworthy and anti-reproductive’ behavior.

But many Dutch artists refused to join this guild, and we now know of several groups of artists and saboteurs in that country with lesbian and gay male leadership. Netherlands had done away with its sodomy laws a century before. In fact, Netherlands had been an early State member of Magnus Hirschfeld’s Scientific Humanitarian Committee.

But as early as August 1940, German antiqueer laws goose-stepped in, to suppress 60 Columnist October 8, 2021

HISTORIC PHOTO

“Sodomites” could get ten years in prison or face transport as a pink triangle.

Our artists worked particularly to produce realistic false identity cards. You lived and died by your card. Literally. The J or H stamped across the front meant a much thinner ration card. Detention. Disappearance.

The Amsterdam civil registry office was

where all the information on each card was stored, and they began to notice certain mismatches and discrepancies. In March 1943, thinking there would be a huge crackdown on queer talents for creating something out of nothing, we sewed Nazi uniforms undetectable as fake, procured dynamite, had medical students overpower the registry guards with injections of sodium pentothal, and blew up the office — a feat which electrified the entire nation!

Unfortunately, only a quarter of the files

Tine Van Klooster: 1894–1945 Van Klooster was born in Groningen and studied Dutch at the University of Groningen. She went on to study modern American literature at Columbia University in 1921. She obtained her doctorate in Groningen in 1924 with a dissertation on Edith Wharton.

In 1926, Tine and her partner Johanna Jacoba “Koos” Schregardus founded the publishing CONTINUES ON PAGE 62 TheGeorgiaVoice.com

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40 YEARS OF CHANGING DIRECTIONS & CHANGING LIVES

MARÍA HELENA DOLAN REELING IN THE YEARS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 60 house De Spieghel in Amsterdam. They published several theses by female Ph.D. students — uncommon at the time. They also published art and history books and nature, games and sports books and magazines.

Van Klooster refused to join the Kultuurkamer, thus inviting suspicion and scrutiny. She and Koos hid the gay male resistance leader Gerrit Jan van der Veen.

They were betrayed, and Tine was put on a transport to the Ravensbrück concentration camp for women. While only there for a little over a year, she died from the harsh treatment. Schregardus was not home at the time of the arrest, and so survived.

Karel Pekelharing

HISTORIC PHOTO

Willem Arondeus: 1894–1943 Born to theater costume-designing parents, Arondeus was encouraged to follow his artistic inclinations, but his parents’ refusal to accept his sexuality made him leave home at 17. He took odd jobs while continuing to paint. He began to get commissions — for a style that was “part Picasso, part Dutch Master.” Life was good until the Nazis came.

As the Nazis began to crack down, Willem turned to making fake identity papers. He also distributed “Brandis Letters” in which he identified cases of cultural collaboration.

He impersonated the Nazi officer in the plot to destroy the registry office, and was arrested a few days later among 13 others.

He took full responsibility, but each of the 14 were shot. Defiant to the end, Arondeus’ final message, delivered through his lawyer, was that “homosexuals are not cowards.”

In 2004, the County Government of Noord-Holland organized an annual lecture, followed by discussion, in Arondéus’ honor.

Frieda Belinfante: 1904–1995 She was everything the Nazis hated: half Jewish, activist lesbian, and a woman who held a man’s job: the conductor of a national chamber orchestra. She was the first woman in Europe to hold such a position. She even performed a weekly show on Dutch National Radio. When the Nazis took over, she lost her job immediately.

62 Columnist October 8, 2021

Frieda Belinfante

Ernst de Jonge

HISTORIC PHOTO

So, she turned her talents to forging personal documents for Jews and others wanted by the Gestapo.

The bombing of the public records office was her idea, and the group was quite excited about it. But the men would not let her participate, as it was “men’s work.”

After the failure of the plot and then the betrayal of the group to the Nazis, Frieda had to impersonate a man for months until she could walk through Belgium and then France, where the French Underground helped her get to Switzerland (via an Alps crossing on foot). She eventually came to the United States.

Karel Pekelharing: 1909–1944 Choreographer, poet, novelist and dancer with the Nederlandsch Ballet, Karel was a marked man, even before the Nazis arrived.

The Gestapo wanted him on charges of antifascism and communism in 1941, so he fled to Germany, where he worked as a translator and streetcar conductor. But the discovery of his intentional sabotage meant he fled back to Netherlands.

Upon his return in 1943, he took up arms with Raad van Verzet (Council of Resistance).

Among other things, they staged a daring raid to liberate Truus van Everdingen, the wife of a resistance man. Shortly afterward, he and his compatriots were betrayed. He was shot the same day he was arrested.

But no one knew his story for quite some time, because the Nazis employed a directive called Nacht und Nebel (Night and Fog).

This unwholesome technique “disappeared” someone (desaparecidos) which meant no one knew what happened to them. Were

HISTORIC PHOTO

they alive, needing medical care, or on a transport to some camp...?

Ernst de Jonge: 1914–1944 A born athlete, de Jonge rowed for Netherlands in the 1936 Olympics. He then entered the military as war began to seem more and more likely. Later, he was released to work for Bataafse Petroleum Maatschappij (Shell Oil) in the Dutch Antilles. An English speaker, the government in exile recalled him to train in London with the crack British Intelligence office.

Once the invasion took place, he was inserted into Netherlands to set up a reliable spy network. Unfortunately, three months into the ops, De Jonge was taken into custody. He and 47 others were sent to concentration camps, where most did not survive, including de Jonge.

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BUCK JONES THE FRENCH CONNECTION

French Pride Began on the Radio Buck Jones During our second COVID-19 lockdown here in Paris this time last year, I began researching for a book I’m writing about the history of gay Paris (and if you are a regular reader of this column, you will probably enjoy the book when it comes out, so follow me at MonsieurBuckJones.Substack.com to find out when it is published). One of the fascinating bits of history I came across pertains to the origin of the modern French gay pride movement. If America’s LGBTQ+ liberation movement can be said to have started with that first act of defiance at Stonewall by Marsha P. Johnson and the other activists enraged by police repression, it can be said to have begun in France at a radio station.

Prior to the cultural and sexual revolution of ’60s France, gays were tolerated, but not overt in society. Paris certainly had its fair share of gay bars and saunas dating back to before World War II, with neighborhoods like Montparnasse and Pigalle attracting not just artists and writers, but gays and lesbians as well. But the police kept a close eye on such establishments, and even though homosexuality had been decriminalized during the French Revolution in 1791, there were still discriminatory laws on the books. For instance, Paris authorities passed a law in 1949 prohibiting two men from dancing together.

But even under the conservative governments of postwar France, gay men were pushing the boundaries of what was possible. One such intrepid figure was André Baudry. In 1955, Monsieur Baudry began the homosexual journal, “Arcadie,” named after the mythic Greek land that was synonymous with pure natural beauty, which immediately drew the attention of the authorities and was prohibited from being sold to minors.

His objective was to promote a healthy homosexuality that was assimilationist, advocating that French gays were just like everyone else. Sales of the magazine took off 66 Columnist October 8, 2021

In 1955, Monsieur Baudry began the homosexual journal, “Arcadie,” named after the mythic Greek land that was synonymous with pure natural beauty, which immediately drew the attention of the authorities and was prohibited from being sold to minors. WIKICOMMONS PHOTO

when he included “personal ads” in the back, and soon he realized that there might be an opportunity to further his business.

A couple years later, he opened the first openly gay club in Paris. Baudry wasn’t much of a business marketing guru (he named the social club the “Literary and Scientific Club of the Latin Countries,” which in French has an acronym of Clespala — doesn’t exactly roll off the lips, even for a Francophone), but it had immediate success, nevertheless. The club soon became known as “Arcadie,” since subscribers to the magazine could also gain access to the club.

While there, the gay patrons could ostensibly attend lectures, debate issues, socialize, and most importantly, they could dance!

Baudry ran a tight ship and banned anyone under the age of 21 from entering the club (that was the age of consent for homosexuals at the time, even though for heterosexuals the age of consent was only 15), but by 1960 political pressure built up and further repression targeting homosexuals went into effect. Not wanting to risk his little gay empire possibly being shut down by reactionary government decrees, he would expel any radical or dissident voices for causing trouble

within Arcadie, whether they were gay youth, gay Catholics, or lesbians wanting more of a voice. Despite the official repression, he managed to keep both the magazine and the club going, earning a reputation within the gay movement as an authoritarian figure.

In 1971, Baudry was part of a panel on a popular radio talk show. Ménie Grégoire hosted a live broadcast on Radio Télé Luxembourg (RTL), and the subject of her March 10th episode was “Homosexuality, that unfortunate problem.” The “unfortunate problem,” or “scourge,” as the reactionary politician Paul Mirguet described it in 1960 when he tightened the official scrutiny on homosexuality, was to be discussed by Catholic priests, psychiatrists, and medical doctors. Word got out to the LGBTQ community about the program’s theme, so the theater where the radio show took place was filled with activists. When Baudry, ever the accommodationist, began explaining how much homosexuals suffered under the current social and political environment, someone yelled from the audience, “Stop talking about our suffering!” Soon, everyone in the auditorium was jeering the panel, and after Madame Grégoire began attacking

An issue of Arcadie Magazine.

lesbians by suggesting that all they needed was a man to give them satisfaction, the censors cut the radio broadcast short.

Enraged by the public humiliation of the LGBTQ community, a group of activists emerged from that radio audience and created the very French sounding “Front Homosexuel d’Action Révolutionnaire,” which began agitating for the sexual liberty of everyone.

That year also saw the first gay liberation march in Paris, not as part of a separate “Gay Pride” march in June, but as part of the annual May Dawy militant march of the political left.

Today, the Paris “Marche de Fierté LGBT” takes place in June and attracts hundreds of thousands. It is still a highly political occasion, with militants within the LGBTQ+ movement, politicians, and performance artists parading with banners to highlight the continuing battle for full equality.

As for Monsieur Baudry, he and Arcadie slowly faded into obscurity following that fateful radio broadcast, eclipsed by the radicalism of the gay liberation movement.

By 1982 he had retired to Naples, Italy, with his life partner Giuseppe.

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October 8, 2021 Ads 67

JIM FARMER ACTING OUT

A Success on Stage, “Dear Evan Hansen” Flounders as a Film Jim Farmer

One of the most highly anticipated films of the season has turned out to be somewhat of a dud.

With Ben Platt returning in the role that made him a star, the film version of “Dear Evan Hansen” is a well-intentioned but bland take on the widely popular stage musical, one that has resonated in the LGBTQ community.

Ben Platt and Nik Dodani PUBLICITY PHOTO

The movie was shot in Atlanta earlier this year and boasts a star-heavy cast, yet this translation doesn’t work on virtually any level.

Evan Hansen (Platt) is a high school student suffering from feelings of social anxiety and isolation. As the film opens, he has fallen out of a tree and broken an arm, now in a cast. He is encouraged by his therapist to write letters to himself each morning about how each day will be a good one. A letter he writes to himself, however, winds up in the wrong hands and is seen by Connor Murphy (Colton Ryan), a troubled young man who winds up killing himself. Finding the letter and assuming it was a suicide letter, Connor’s parents (Amy Adams and Danny Pino) assume Evan and Connor were friends. Making matters worse, Evan goes along with it. He also has a crush on Connor’s sister Zoe (Kaitlyn Dever).

Other characters include Evan’s hardworking mother Heidi (Julianne Moore), who is a nurse’s aide, his gay family friend Jared (Nik Dodani) and Alana (Amandla Stenberg), an ambitious high school student who has a lot in common with Evan.

The film gets off to a promising start with a rendition of “Waving Through a Window” as Evan wakes up and goes to school, weaving in and out of a hallway and into an auditorium without one person seeing 68 Columnist October 8, 2021

Perks of Being a Wallflower” and the box office hit “Wonder” with Julia Roberts and Jason Tremblay. Nowhere is this uninspired direction more apparent than in the number, “For Forever,” a beautiful song about loneliness and not fitting in, which the director stages around a dining room table with the principals basically just looking at each other. Under Chbosky’s direction, it’s a wasted opportunity and a misfire of a poignant and haunting song.

Ben Platt and Kaitlyn Dever star in the film version of “Dear Evan Hansen” PUBLICITY PHOTO

or even acknowledging him: “I try to speak, but nobody can hear — So I wait around for an answer to appear — While I’m watch, watch, watching people pass I’m waving through a window, oh,” sings Platt in one of the signature songs.

across as self-absorbed, and the damage he does to an already grieving family is cruel. It’s hard to sympathize with the character after a while. Certainly, Platt can sing the heck out of the role, but he doesn’t tone his mannered performance down here either.

Yet what was successful on stage seems melodramatic on the big screen. Much has been made about the decision to cast Platt in the lead role despite him now being in his late 20s and his father is one of the producers.

He doesn’t look like a teenager at all. Evan gets away with what he does in the musical because he’s a teenager trying to figure out life and his place in it. Here, though, with Platt looking like he should be working at the school instead of attending as a student, it just doesn’t work. The character comes

Others in the cast seem stranded, especially Adams and Pino in thin roles. Stenberg and Dever fare a little better, and Moore has a great scene where she balks at a financial offer. Yet her character is underused.

The role of Jared was not gay on stage but is in the film. Both Platt and Stenberg are out performers.

This is directed with little flair by Stephen Chbosky, who made the excellent “The

“Dear Evan Hansen” has never been nor ever will be a better show than “Come From Away,” the musical it beat for the 2017 Tony Award. It caught on, though, and became a pop culture phenomenon with its appealing central character — who is easily relatable on the stage, at least — and irresistible songs by the team of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Its closing passages are also staggering in their onstage impact.

As a film, though, “Dear Evan Hansen” is unfortunately ill-conceived and unbelievable. Worse, as a musical, it’s flaccid. Fans of the stage work are likely to be very disappointed here.

MORE INFO “Dear Evan Hansen” is now in area theaters.

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October 8, 2021 Restaurant Guide 69

CLIFF BOSTOCK OLD GAY MAN

From left: Lily White, Tina Devore, and Diamond Lil.

PHOTOS VIA FACEBOOK

Pride and Death: Tina, Lily, and Lil Cliff Bostock Nothing makes an old gay person more annoyed than death. We have better reason to resent it than straight people because we endured the plague of AIDS. Back then, every single friend died and — long estranged from my family — I felt completely alone, floating in the night sky as I often imagined myself as a child. “Is it grief or is it depression?” a therapist asked me. I explained that it was “inevitability.” He prescribed an antidepressant for my inevitability, and it worked long enough that I could stop thinking full time about the inevitable.

In the last few weeks, we as a community have faced two deaths — drag performers Tina Devore and Lily White. They were preceded by Diamond Lil six years ago. It’s become a cliché to say so, but drag queens don’t simply entertain us. Historically, they have pushed us into self-approval.

I’ve often called Lily White a shaman. After a pathetic five-year marriage when I was 20, I started my coming-out process with the selfloathing whose only antidote was finding sex in bars. I’ve told the story countless times, 70 Columnist October 8, 2021

but it was seeing Lily White perform at the Locker Room that woke me up. She and her two fellow Grease Sisters, in punk-rock/goth drag, performed the Flying Lizards’ version of Summertime Blues. Lily literally reversed my dread. Being gay was going to be a fantastic journey, an explosion of difference rather than a struggle to hide within a costume of normality that never fit me. This message is explicitly articulated today by RuPaul and her acolytes, but in the late ’70s it was still radical among queers.

Around 1980, I was under contract to the AJC’s Sunday Magazine and my editor agreed to let me write the paper’s first article ever on drag queens. I wanted to introduce people to Lily’s profound message. I spent a week hanging out with her. She let me try out the coffin in which she slept in an apartment whose walls were covered with patent-leather handbags. She and two other drag queens came to the AJC to be photographed. Then, the new stupid editor of the overall newspaper flew into a rage and threatened to fire the magazine editor if she published the story. I had to make the decision to save my editor by withdrawing the article. Lily wasn’t happy,

to say the least, but not surprised.

I edited several publications in Atlanta and wrote three weekly columns for many years.

Diamond Lil used to chase me down to share her schedule or give me recordings to review. She was rare in that she sang as well as lip-synced. We met up a few times and she unfurled her life story, whose message was really the same as Lily’s, though set in an earlier, campier time. About a year before her death, I began to see her regularly at the Death Café Atlanta, a monthly get-together at Oakland Cemetery to discuss the way death’s inevitability can positively inform our lives. Lil was always out of drag, using his name Phil, and always sitting quietly at a table alone. I always joined him or dragged him to another table. While the café’s purpose was not really a support group for the terminally ill, it of course helped him make meaning of what was left of his life, even though he never shared his cancer diagnosis. We joked that the thought of death’s inevitability made us both quieter than we’d ever been.

I only interacted with Tina Devore once.

During my Ph.D. studies I was invited to speak at a conference on queer spirituality at

the University of California. My subject was the Gospel Girls. I went to a performance to check it out for filming and met Tina, who, like Lil, often used her own voice. When I told her my name, Cliff, she stared at me in silence for a moment and said, “That’s my name too. I’ve never met a white boy named Cliff.” I told her that was my experience too, and we had a lengthy chat about color and names, segregation in the queer world, and, of course, gospel music as theater. She was obviously brilliant. I ended up scrapping the project for reasons too dramatic to recount, but the memory came back bigtime when I watched the recording of Tina’s funeral in Florida on the internet. Although I didn’t hear the words “drag queen,” the stories shared by high school friends, family members, and some Atlantans who traveled there demonstrated how being joyously queer no longer means necessary estrangement.

These three amazing people, shamans who preceded today’s mainstream drag, changed my life in moments. There are times I wish I’d followed more conventional paths, but their gift to me was fascination. As we celebrate Pride, let’s vow to honor and apply the lessons of their lives to what is left of our own.

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October 8, 2021 Ads 71

MELISSA CARTER THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

DIY Disclaimer Melissa Carter

I don’t know about you, but YouTube seems to be my goto for DIY solutions around the house.

Recently I wanted to know how to get a stain out of my hardwood floor and YouTube provided me with plenty of simple solutions to try. They did require things to be laid or poured onto the problem area, and if I didn’t live alone, someone might have wondered what in the world I was doing. I’ve realized from this and past experience that one might need a disclaimer for those who live with you if the techniques found are unconventional.

Before YouTube there was Heloise, and my mother was a loyal disciple of hers. If you aren’t familiar with the name, Heloise Bowles Cruse began a syndicated newspaper column in the 1950s, called “Hints from Heloise,” that helped women with timesaving tricks around their homes. After her death in 1977, her daughter — whose name is also Heloise — took over the business.

One “hint” suggested saving lemon halves after the juice had been extracted. That’s because you could rub the bottom of your copper-bottom pots with them for quick cleaning. Another is to use a vegetable peeler to shave off thin curls from a stick of butter, because those curls will instantly be soft enough to spread.

Heloise published many books, and I’d tease my mother about some of the more unorthodox, or at times unnecessary, efforts that she made that Mom was convinced were brilliant. One in particular had my sister ready to send Millie Pete to the psychiatric ward.

My mother retired early from being an art teacher when I began school, instead staying home with me and dedicating any spare time to personal painting projects. I was an unexpected pregnancy, as my parents were in their 40s and thought their child-rearing 74 Columnist October 8, 2021

Heloise Bowles Cruse SYNDICATED PHOTO

days were over. I was far enough behind my sister and brother that they headed off to college while I was still in elementary school.

My sister once came by for a visit before I got home from school and found Mom asleep in her chair. Laughing at Mom’s slumped pose with her mouth agape, she proceeded to the kitchen to grab some food. Noticing the oven light was on, she clicked on the light to get a quick peek at what was for dinner. She was horrified to find a pan of rocks cooking.

When I got off the bus, my mother was in tears from laughter after having been woken up by her panicked eldest daughter, who was sure our mother had finally lost her mind.

Turns out the warm serving of rocks was meant for the dog. Clasping her hands and shaking off the chuckles, Mom explained: Heloise suggested to warm the rocks in the oven before placing them in a bag for the doghouse. Rocks retain heat longer, and they would help our cocker spaniel stay comfortable on cooler nights outside.

Needless to say, we requested warnings for future Heloise-inspired experimentation, and I recommend you do the same with whatever DIY project you plan to spring upon your loved ones.

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CELEBRATE ATLANTA PRIDE WITH THE GAYLY DOSE! Don’t miss our awesome PRIDE lineup. Listen today!

Jamie Fergerson

Patti Ellis

Feroza Syed

Daniel Passariello

The Clays

Brigitte Bidet

Rafael De La Fuente

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October 8, 2021 Ads 75

RYAN LEE SOMETIMES ‘Y’

Queer Progress Fueled by the Best Ads Ever Ryan Lee It’s felt like an oversight for the Nobel Prize committee to have not yet honored whoever created the technology that allows us to skip ads. It’s not world peace or penicillin, but pressing that number below a curved arrow or condensing five commercials into a 7-second flipbook grants millions an ephemeral self-determination, the tiniest reclamation of their time and impulses.

YouTube recently recommended I watch a vintage college football game, one tied to intense memories even though I had never seen it. All of the disparate emotions that arose when I clicked the video were dampened by the disappointment of it being longer than three hours, meaning the idiot who uploaded it didn’t edit out commercials.

The grainy recording immediately transported me to September 1998, the Saturday I arrived at Auburn University for my freshman year.

It was the same afternoon we hosted the LSU Tigers, and I was so physically and emotionally exhausted from my last night in Chicago that I went to my dorm as soon as I got to campus and slept through the game.

Watching the hysterical crowd inside Jordan-Hare Stadium on YouTube, I thought of the 18-year-old who was a few blocks away hoping sleep would suppress his fears. Twenty-three years later, I could still feel the doubts and loneliness that made me cry myself into a nap.

The first commercial break the idiot didn’t edit out featured a trailer for “Rush Hour,” which I saw with my best friend a few hours before departing for college. I still have the ticket stub along with other mementos from that transitional weekend, but seeing the ad in its original setting sparked a different type of sentimentality: the stub reminds me we saw it on opening night; seeing Chris Tucker in the preview reminded me why.

76 Columnist October 8, 2021

PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / BLACKREGIS

I recognized campaigns for AT&T calling cards and Bowflex that aired when I was in high school, and soon I was enjoying the retro commercials as much as the football game. Everything old ferments into nostalgia, and I was so drunk off memories I wondered if modern children were damaging their development each time they skipped an ad.

A commercial for a McDonald’s peel-off game highlighted the dangers of idealizing the past. Only in recent years have we learned every iteration of the fast-food sweepstakes was rigged, evidence that although most people consider themselves experts of the eras through which they’ve lived, we were as naive then as we remain today.

None of the commercials featured LGBTQ characters or referenced queer themes, and it was five years before the U.S. Supreme Court decriminalized homosexuality. About the only gay person on TV during that time period was Matthew Shepard, a college student recently tortured to death because of his sexual orientation.

The speed with which LGBTQ Americans have gone from that reality to our current one feels like we have been tapping the “Skip Ads” button for the past two decades.

However, the time in between was filled with coming out stories that turned into one of the most successful marketing campaigns in history.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

October 8, 2021 Ads 77