Empty Closet, February 2017

The Empty Closet

PHOTO: DOUG MESZLER

WAD Concert page 10

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NUMBER 508

A PUBLICATION OF THE GAY ALLIANCE

FEBRUARY 2017

The Gay Alliance hosted a donor thank-you at the Strong Museum of Play. Photos: Susan Jordan

Gay Alliance thanks donors, honors Emily Jones and Bruce Gorman

Bruce Gorman and Emily Jones.

attend meetings and events, see films, take yoga classes, explore Gallery Q exhibits, use a computer and/or browse the large library collection.

Center Director Jeff Myers said, “I celebrate Pride every day when I walk into the Center.

Since the election over 220 people have reached out to become volunteers.”

Jeanne Gainsburg, Education Director, said, “I’m about to celebrate my 11th year as an employee…. In 2006, 20 presentations reached 400 people. In (Donors continues page 3)

HRC’s Carol Ebersole-Weiss talks about “The Road Ahead”

By Susan Jordan Carol Ebersole-Weiss is the WNY coordinator for the Human Rights Campaign. On Jan. 25, HRC Regional Field Director Lynne Bowman spoke at the LGBTQ Resource Center on these issues. Carol gives her opinions here: Empty Closet: What in your opinion is the most pressing specific danger to LGBTQ Americans posed by the conservatives now in control of the federal government?

Carol Ebersole-Weiss: I believe the most pressing danger is conservatives’ desire to eradicate President Obama’s legacy, which means, among other things, reversing any of the advances made in LGBTQ rights over the past eight years.

Neck-and-neck with that is the desire of many to set conservative Christian “values” as the law of the land, thereby demonizing LGBTQ individuals and deeming us as ineligible for equal treatment under the law.

EC: What would you say are

Carol Ebersole-Weiss

the most challenging state laws or changes proposed by conservative legislators across the country?

CEW: The two most challenging – and most prevalent – proposed state laws are the “Religious Freedom” bills and the “Bathroom” bills. The Religious Freedom bills are the antithesis of the Equality Act that has been endorsed by major corporations around the country and was presented to Congress over two years ago. These bills give license for discrimination in employment, housing, adoption, medical care, survivor/spousal rights, even consumer rights in (HRC continues page 6)

Gov. Cuomo proposes new hate crimes protections, modernization of voting system Governor Andrew M. Cuomo on Jan. 9 proposed the “New York Promise” Agenda – a sweeping, unprecedented package of reforms to advance principles of social justice, affirm New York’s progressive values, and a set a national standard for protections against all forms of discrimination.

“At these stormy times of instability and confusion, New York must serve as a safe harbor for the progressive principles and social justice that made America,” Governor Cuomo said. “We will hold the torch high to light the way toward opportunity, because that is New York’s promise. This promise is not just in words but in actions and we will push even further to advance the social progress we have made and continue the fight.”

Governor Cuomo also announced a series of actions to modernize New York’s voting system. The Democracy Project

would allow early voting, and adopt both automatic voter registration and same day voter registration. These new actions will streamline voter registration services, remove unnecessary barriers that prevent participation in elections and increase accuracy within the voting process.

“Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy. This past election shined a bright light on the deficiencies of New York’s antiquated election laws and the artificial barriers they create that prevent and discourage voters from exercising this sacred right,” Governor Cuomo said. “These proposals will modernize and open up our election system, making it easier for more voters to participate in the process and helping to make a more fair, more just and more representative New York for all.”

Monroe County Democratic Election Commissioner Tom Ferrarese commented, “Governor Cuomo has put forth a number of election reforms that I have been supporting and talking about for some time. I am hopeful that this gets new conversation going on many more reforms that will open up the

Governor Cuomo

process for more voters and help shed added transparency on the system. In comparison to a number of other states, New York already has a secure election process but there are many ways it can be expanded to provide additional access to voters and an openness to increase voter confidence without undermining that security.”

NYS Assembly member Harry Bronson said, “Election reform has been, and continues to be a priority of the New York State Assembly majority. Having the Governor join the Assembly this year in calling for election reform measures in his State of the State is encouraging.

(Cuomo continues page 3)

Inside

LGBTQ Academy travels… page 7

PHOTO: MANUEL PEÑA

By Susan Jordan It was a fun evening at the Strong Museum of Play for the people who have helped the Gay Alliance provide services, resources and connection to Rochester’s LGBTQ community.

The Gay Alliance held a donor thank-you event on Jan. 12 among the colorful exhibits of dinosaurs, pirate ships and cartoon characters; around 70 people attended.

Executive Director Scott Fearing noted that since the Alliance moved to the LGBTQ Resource Center at 100 College Ave. in December 2015, there has been a 1,400 percent increase in use of the community center. At least 600 people a month come to the Center to

SOLIDARITY RALLY: Over 2,000 people rallied for women’s rights and intersecting social justice issues in Washington Square Park on Jan. 21. Meanwhile 500,000 marched in Washington, as many as 10,000 in Seneca Falls, and millions across the US and on every continent on our planet, including Antarctica. Photo: Doug Meszler. More photos on p. 10; more coverage on Empty Closet News/Facebook or go to www.gayalliance.org and click on Empty Closet.

Editorials....................................... 2 Interview: Academy travels......... 6 Making the Scene......................10 Opinion: Coming out..................15 Health: Trans victory..................16 LGBTQ Living: Re-decorating ...17 Shoulders To Stand On ...........21 Columnists ................................22 Community ................................25 Entertainment: Sound of Music.. 27 Gay Alliance: Pride plans .........30 Calendar.....................................34 Classifieds..................................34 Comics........................................35 The Gay Alliance is publisher of The Empty Closet, New York State’s oldest LGBTQ newspaper.

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

Perspectives The Empty Closet Editor SUSAN JORDAN

Make America sane again The new year brought an ignorant, arrogant, irresponsible narcissist, and the Far-Right’s “alternative facts” ideologues and fanatics, to total power in Washington. Their agenda includes erasure of civil and human rights for LGBTQ Americans. That they will be able to overturn marriage equality seems unlikely, but “Religious Liberty” laws could harm millions.

The Republican agenda also includes the noble goals of destroying the Affordable Care Act, and cutting or “vouchering” Social Security and Medicare, thus taking healthcare, food and housing away from seniors (who have paid into the system all their lives -- this is THEIR money) and the poor. It includes destroying the environment for the benefit of multinational corporations, which pay few or no taxes. And, of course, ending women’s right to control our bodies and lives.

People of color, especially immigrants, are already seeing racism affect their lives in multiple new ways. And although Republicans proclaim their support for Netanyahu’s Israel, the anti-Semitism that lies just below the conservative surface emerged when swastikas were scrawled all over the country after Election Day. Muslims face all kinds of repression – no matter how

opposed they may be to terrorism.

As for LGBTQs, the haters in GOP-controlled states are already making new plans. The Right has used our families as a political football for years. Having failed to stop passage of marriage equality, they have now turned to transgender Americans, with seven or eight conservative-controlled states planning “bathroom bills”. Again we see exploitation of hatred to gain power. The Right’s propagandists claim they are defending women and children from attacks by trans women.

Never mind that no trans or gender-expansive person has ever been charged with raping or molesting women or children in restrooms. Never mind that it is heterosexual, cisgender males who commit most rapes and child abuse. And never mind that conservatives have never seemed especially concerned about the feminist issue of violence against women: the Trump team is defunding the Office of Violence Against Women.

The Right is all about the rich Aryan Alpha Male, HeMan and Master of the Universe.

Females, gays and trans people, the poor and non-whites are seen as less than human – as property, innately sinful and/or inferior.

Working-class white men listening to hate radio and Faux News have taken Trump as their fantasy role model and compensatory personality. He’s the classic Aryan Alpha Male cartoon – rich, blond, all-powerful and able to grab any woman’s genitals. These men want to be him and they wrongly believe that the men in power care about them.

This is why many were heartened by the events of Jan. 21, with ordinary people uniting across society’s barriers, standing up and speaking out for real American values of women’s rights, respect and responsibility.

Over 2,000 rallied in Rochester, with 500,000 in Washington and millions around the US and on all seven continents, including Antarctica! ■

Stronger Together

Gay Alliance Board of Trustees Colleen Raimond, President Jennifer Matthews, Secretary Jason Barnecut-Kearns, Treasurer Paul Birkby, Sady Fischer, Jeff Lambert, Martin Murphy, Milo Primeaux, Louis Rosario-McCabe, David Zona

Gay Alliance Executive Director SCOTT FEARING

Change happened In the 44 years that the Alliance has existed our communities’ challenges have changed.

From fighting forced hospitalization for the “illness” of “homosexuality” to advocating for butch, fem and gender expensive presentation to relationship recognition to gender self-determination.

In these fights, and many others, the Alliance has tried to provide a stable and steady presence.

Simply, we advocate for sexual and gender freedoms – we champion LGBTQ life and culture.

That is our mission.

Among the challenges of doing this work is that we all have MANY identities. We are never “just” LGBTQ+. No one is singularly a sexual and gender being.

LGBTQ+ people are of all races, abilities and disabilities; we represent all ages, sizes, shapes, faiths, jobs. We stand on all points of economic and education scales and we have a wide variety of experiences and political views.

One can sum it all up by remembering that we are all human and one of the few things that humans have in common is difference.

Difference is as important and powerful. The research is clear, diverse cultures increase the likely hood of longterm viability. Examine any system, from workplaces and neighborhoods to forests and oceans -- they are all stronger and

Name

more productive when differences exist. In the natural world we refer to this as bio-diversity.

Sadly, we humans, instead of embracing the power of biodiversity, tend to segregate and encourage mono-cultures. We, often understandably, distrust those we determine as “different.” This lack of trust can lead to divisions that can be detrimental to our own lives.

In nearly 30 years of LGBTQ+ organizing work, one of the most important lessons that I have learned was that cisgender heterosexuals, despite their difference and inherent privileges, can be effective advocates for me and all LGBTQ+ identified people.

Over those same years it has been the inter-community divisions that I find saddest. We must stop seeing each other as an enemy.

The arrival of HIV/AIDS in the 1980s taught me that lesbians could be powerful advocates for me as a gay man. In the early 1990s I watched as many lesbians and gays became great advocates for the emerging bisexual community. I have witnessed LGB people became important advocates for the Trans communities.

These changes hurt no one and helped everyone.

As we anticipate changes coming out of Washington for LGBTQ+ people, we need to trust in each other. Working for and with others does NOT mean giving up our own identities or diminishing ourselves.

The Alliance will remain Rochester’s champion for LGBTQ+ life and culture, and we will examine how we can better address more of our communities’ challenges. We know that racism, classism, islamophobia are LGBTQ+ issues. We understand that any act of bias, bigotry or discrimination hurts all of us.

No matter how things play out over the next four years, as long as we love, care for and trust each other, we will emerge stronger. ■ 2/17

Address City/State/Zip Phone E-mail Gay Alliance Membership Levels: ❏ $30-99 Advocate ❏ $100 Champion ❏ $1,000-4,999 Triangle Club ❏ $5,000+ Stonewall ❏ Check enclosed in the amount of _________ (check #______) Please charge my credit card in the amount of __________ To: ❏ American Express, ❏ Discover, ❏ MasterCard, ❏ Visa Credit card # ____________________________Exp. Date: _______ ❏ I would be proud to have my donation publicly acknowledged.

100 College Avenue • Rochester , New York

Benefits: Your annual Gay Alliance membership, aside from the good feelings, entitles you to a free subscription to New York state’s first gay publication: The Empty Closet – mailed to your home or work. There are also exciting privileges at each level. Phone: 585-244-8640 or mail to: The Gay Alliance, 100 College Avenue, Rochester, New York 14607.

THANK YOU THE GAY ALLIANCE APPRECIATES THE CONTINUING PARTNERSHIP OF BUSINESSES WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY WHO SUPPORT OUR MISSION AND VISION.

GOLD Bachelor Forum City of Rochester SWS Charitable Foundation, Inc Trillium Health

SILVER Constellation Brands Empire Merchants Lake Beverage Nixon Peabody, LLP Southern Wine & Spirits Victory Alliance Waddell & Reed

BRONZE 140 Alex Bar & Grill Advantage Federal Credit Union Anderson Windows Avenue Pub Bank of America, Merrill Lynch CSEA Empire North Excellus First Niagara Fred L. Emerson Foundation Harter, Secrest & Emery LLP HCR Home Care Hedonist Chocolates Jim Beam John’s Tex Mex Joseph & Irene Skalny Charitable Trust Logical Operations New York Life NYSUT Pride at Work Prudential Rochester Area Community Foundation Rochester Broadway Theatre League Rochester Institute of Technology Three Olives Waldron Rise Foundation Wegman’s School of Pharmacy Woods, Oviatt, & Gilman, LLP

CHAMPION Bohnett Foundation Brighton Dental Canandaigua National Bank Centerlink Jimmy C. Entertainment Group Marshall St. Bar & Grill Out & Equal Park Ave Merchants Association RIT Student Association RIT Women & Gender Studies Department Rochester Kink Society Rochester Labor Council AFL-CIO Rochester Rams MC Third Presbyterian Church

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

PAGE ONE (Cuomo from page 1) “Protecting and expanding participation for the rights of voters is vitally important to our democracy. To further this policy I and the Assembly majority have previously passed several bills and with the Governor’s help this year I am hopeful we can get these measures through the Senate as well. I joined my Assembly colleagues in passing legislation to provide voters with more options to vote and reduce the likelihood of long lines at polling locations.

“We in the Assembly also passed legislation that would permit voters to vote by mail at their convenience without being required to meet the narrow criteria that currently apply to voters requesting absentee ballots; provide for early voting, permitting voters to vote in person eight days prior to election day, including during evening and weekend hours; modernize voter registration, improve the communication efforts of the various board of election offices and allow qualified New Yorkers to register to vote or update their registration from any computer, smart phone, tablet or other portable device with internet access.

“Other initiatives championed by the Assembly to improve the administration of elections to ensure that they run more smoothly and efficiently would enact the Voter Friendly Ballot Act, ensuring that ballots are clear and easy for voters to read and complete accurately; and enable boards of elections to replace paper voting lists currently used at poll sites with electronic poll books, ensuring that the most up-to-date information is available for voters and poll workers, including votes cast previously in the same election through early voting or absentee ballots.”

The hate crimes protections include the following: Combat Hate Crimes and Encourage Tolerance: The Governor will launch of a statewide Hate Crimes Task Force charged with investigating and deterring incidents of bias and discrimination. The Task Force includes members from New York State Police and the New York State Division of Human Rights, who will investigate hate crimes and conduct community outreach to educate New Yorkers of their rights.

Establishing Statewide Hate Crimes Task Force Following an increase in recent reports of discrimination, bias-motivated threats, harassment and violence, the agreement provides for the creation of a statewide Hate Crimes Task Force.

The workgroup will be composed of members of the State Police, who will be directly tasked with preventing, investigating and detecting hate crimes throughout the state within the Penal Law. The Division of Human Rights will be part of the Task Force to inform individuals of their rights and remedies including penalties for discrimination.

Further, the Task Force will work with counties’ leaders, district attorneys, school district leaders, local police departments and other key stakeholders to identify bias related trends, discriminatory practices and community based vulnerabilities within each county.

Currently, under state law,

a person commits a hate crime when one of a specified set of offenses is committed targeting a victim because of a perception or belief about their race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, religious practice, age, disability or sexual orientation, or when such an act is committed as a result of that type of perception or belief. Hate crimes can be perpetrated against an individual, a group of individuals or against public or private property. Under state law it is also illegal to discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, religion, ethnicity and many other protected classifications.

Launching the Tolerance and Understanding Initiative The Governor launched “The Tolerance and Understanding Initiative” to advance the state’s efforts to protect civil rights and combat hate speech that encourages fear and violence.

The initiative includes an Interfaith Advisory Council, comprised of religious leaders, which will convene meetings with state officials and community leaders at religious institutions across the state. The Council will be led by Cardinal Dolan and will offer guidance to state officials on issues of public discord, such as violence or human rights violations committed against individuals because of their faith, or other identities. The council will promote greater understanding and tolerance of all religions and cultures, promote openmindedness and inclusivity, and bolster the state’s efforts to protect all New Yorkers.

In November 2016, Governor Cuomo launched a toll-free hotline to report incidents of bias and discrimination across the state. To date, a total of 2,182 calls have been received by the hotline and referred to the appropriate agencies to follow up on complaints and allegations of discrimination and bias. Additionally, a total of 86 calls were referred to the State Police to investigate as well as offer assistance to other law enforcement agencies investigating potential hate crimes. ■

(Donors from page 1) 2015, we did 275 presentations and reached over 10,000.”

Colleen Raimond, newly elected Board President, talked about the Alliance’s role “in this time of change and progress for the LGBTQ community…. When our community is threatened, we are here to be champions for LGBTQ lives and rights.” She noted that after the election, terrified people called the Alliance office and Scott Fearing put together an evening when over 100 spoke about their fears and concerns. Raimond said, “Our community has a place to feel safe and included and know they’re not alone.”

Former Board Presidents Emily Jones and Bruce Gorman were honored for their years of dedicated service to the community, and presented with gifts by Education Coordinator Rowan Collins. Scott Fearing said that in 2011 when the Alliance was going through a difficult time, “two board members stepped up… and assured that the Alliance would move forward.”

Emily Jones commented, “We need everyone to step up (Donors continues page 6)

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NewsFronts LOCAL AND STATE

Sara Kelly Keenan

NYC issues first known intersex birth certificate Michel Fitzgerald posts on Towleroad.com: New York City has issued what is thought to be the country’s first intersex birth certificate.

The certificate was issued at the end of December to 55-yearold Sara Kelly Keenan (above) who was born with male genes, female genitalia and mixed internal reproductive organs.

Last September, Keenan made headlines when a judge allowed her to become the first California resident to change her gender to “non-binary.”

NBC reports: Like many people born intersex, Keenan was unaware of her anatomical reality for most of her adult life, because her parents and doctors agreed to keep it secret. When she was born in New York City a half-century ago, she was classified as a boy for three weeks — then suddenly issued a female birth certificate.

Back then, intersex people were called “hermaphrodites,” and doctors typically recommended surgery to make them conform to one of two genders.

Keenan started a lifetime of hormone replacement therapy at age 16, vaguely informed that she was “a girl that can’t make hormones.” Her father confessed to her in 2012 that doctors had suggested a penis be constructed to match her genitalia to her male chromosomes, but he had declined. She has since undergone endocrinological testing to confirm her intersex status.

“Not all intersex people will choose to identify legally as intersex,” Keenan told NBC Out, “and not all parents will choose to have their intersex child identified as intersex on birth documents. But for those who do, the option must exist.”

Keenan said she embraces her intersex identity and wants to pave a “legal way for other intersex people who choose to embrace it in the same way to do so with a legally recognized sex marker.” After a long life filled with what she called “lies and deception,” Keenan has been newly energized by what she said is a mission to fight society’s ignorance of the intersex community.

Alesdair Ittelson, Deputy

Legal Director at interACT, an intersex advocacy group, said that the organization is aware of one other reissued birth certificate that reads “hermaphrodite” and several that do not have a sex specified. However, Ittelson believes Keenan’s to be the first intersex birth certificate.

New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene spokesperson Julien A. Martinez said that Keenan’s case shows the agency is working to “adopt changes”: “The Health Department has interpreted our gender marker rule to mean that a person may amend their birth certificate to have ‘intersex’ reflected on their birth certificate with appropriate documentary evidence from a U.S.licensed doctor.

“The Department will continue to work with community partners as we adopt changes to more accurately reflect a person’s sex.”

Welcoming the decision, Lambda Legal attorney Paul Castillo said, “In the United States, birth certificates often provide access to a wide range of public services and critical identity documents, such as state IDs and passports. Having birth certificates with gender designations other than male or female provides an enormous sense of validation for a number of nonbinary and intersex people.”

Keenan now has two legal genders: non-binary according to the courts and intersex according to her birth records.

She has had meetings with the California Department of Motor Vehicles to discuss changes in the driver’s license system that would allow her to update her ID. -See video on Towleroad.com

Chief Judge, Chief Administrative Judge form LGBT Commission New York Chief Judge Janet DiFiore and Chief Administrative Judge Lawrence K. Marks have announced the appointment of a new commission to highlight and address issues of concern to LGBT members within the justice system and legal profession.

The LGBT Commission will act as a forceful advocate for

LGBT issues and LGBT members of the court community, providing a bridge between the Judiciary’s leadership and LGBT individuals in the courts and legal profession. The Commission, whose members include judges and lawyers from around the state, will be led by Hon. Marcy Kahn, Associate Justice of the Appellate Division, First Department, and Hon. Elizabeth Garry, Associate Justice of the Appellate Division, Third Department. The new commission will be staffed by Marc Levine, who has worked on LGBT issues in the court system for a number of years.

The LGBT Commission will work with Chief Judge DiFiore, Chief Administrative Judge Marks and other court officials to promote equal participation in and access to the courts and legal profession by all persons regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression − from initiatives to enhance judicial and workforce diversity to efforts to help ensure that issues facing LGBT litigants are fairly addressed by the courts.

The Commission will also collaborate with LGBT advocacy organizations, bar associations and community groups to raise awareness about LGBT issues and foster a more equitable, supportive environment for LGBT members within the justice system, legal profession and greater community.

The LGBT Commission is modeled on the court system’s highly successful Franklin H. Williams Commission on Minorities, which acts as a liaison between the Judiciary’s top management and persons of color in the court system, sponsoring programs for judges and non-judicial employees on issues of race and diversity within the courts and providing judicial mentors for attorneys of color who are interested in becoming judges, among other activities.

“I am heartened by the historic gains made by LGBT members throughout society, among them LGBT persons within the Unified Court System, who are now well represented in our judicial and nonjudicial ranks. Yet for their many advances in American society in recent years, LGBT members continue all too often to face discrimination, bullying and hatemotivated violence,” said Chief Judge DiFiore. “While it is the function of the courts to adjudicate such matters and protect our individual liberties as guaranteed by the Constitution, the LGBT Commission was created to go beyond the courts’ adjudicative role – to work in an administrative capacity to foster the progress of LGBT persons in the courts and broader community. I have every confidence that the Commission, under the able guidance of Judges Kahn and Garry, will lead us forward on that path.”

“As a fully institutionalized organization within the court system, the LGBT Commission (Commission continues page 11)

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

NewsFronts NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL

Former Secretary of State John Kerry

State Dept. apologizes for ‘50s “Lavender Scare” witch hunt Yezmin Villareal posts on The Advocate: Secretary of State John Kerry issued a formal apology on Jan. 9 for the LGBT government employees fired from their positions starting in the 1940s, when an anti-queer conspiracy known as the Lavender Scare rocked the State Department.

“In the past — as far back as the 1940s, but continuing for decades — the Department of State was among many public and private employers that discriminated against employees and job applicants on the basis of perceived sexual orientation, forcing some employees to resign or refusing to hire certain applicants in the first place,” Kerry wrote in a statement.

“These actions were wrong then, just as they would be wrong today. On behalf of the Department, I apologize to those who were impacted by the practices of the past and reaffirm the Department’s steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion for all our employees, including members of the LGBTI community.”

The fear of a looming Donald Trump presidency and what that could mean for federal LGBT employees was at the center of a letter from the Human Rights Campaign. The LGBT group asked the State Department to apologize for the Lavender Scare after Tony Perkins, the head of the Family Research Council, an organization that the progressive Southern Poverty Law Center deems a “hate group,” authored a letter to the incoming administration asking they fire LGBT “activists” from the State Department.

The HRC celebrated Kerry’s apology.

“Although it is not possible to undo the damage that was done decades ago, Secretary Kerry’s apology sets the right tone for the State Department as it enters a new and uncertain time in our country under a new administration,” David Stacy, HRC government affairs director said in a written statement.

-Read more on The Advocate

Texas, seven other states introduce “bathroom bills” In Texas on Jan. 5, legislators introduced a “bathroom bill” similar to North Carolina’s notorious law and said they were steeling themselves for the challenge of getting it passed amid fears of the pos-

sible economic consequences.

“Bathroom bills” targeting gender variant people have become a favorite cause of conservative lawmakers. Seven other states have introduced or pre-filed bills restricting access to facilities for their 2017 legislative sessions, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures: Alabama, Kentucky, Missouri, South Carolina, Virginia, Washington and Minnesota.

From the Williams Institute: Texas Republicans introduced Senate Bill 6, which would require transgender people to use bathrooms in public schools, government buildings, and public universities based on “biological sex” and would preempt local nondiscrimination ordinances that allow transgender Texans to use the bathroom that corresponds with their gender identity.

SB6 would negatively impact over 125,000 transgender adults in Texas. Texas ranks 5th in the United States in terms of adults who identify as transgender (0.66 percent) and over 60 percent of transgender adults in Texas are People of Color – 44 percent are Latino and 13 percent are African-American.

In addition, SB6 would negatively impact transgender youth and young adults in the state. Texas is home to 19,600 transgender adults aged 18 to 24, and thousands of transgender youth under 18. With its focus on schools, SB6 means transgender students in Texas can’t fully participate in their education. Further, research shows that limiting access to restrooms creates health problems for transgender people and exposes them to harassment and bullying.

SB6 would add to an already challenging legal environment in Texas. Texas currently lacks a state law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, and SB6 undermines exiting local protections. At least four localities in Texas prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in public and private sector employment, and at least seven localities protect local government workers or employees of local government contractors from such discrimination.

Approximately 86 percent of Texas’ workforce, however, is not covered by these laws and SB6 would pre-empt those ordinances that fully protect LGBT workers.

In response to the 2011 National Transgender Discrimination Survey, 79 percent of transgender people from Texas reported having experienced harass-

ment or mistreatment at work; 45 percent reported that they were not hired; 26 percent reported that they were fired; and 22 percent reported being denied a promotion because of their gender identity or expression. Aggregated data from two large public opinion polls found that 79 percent of Texas residents think that LGBT people experience a moderate amount to a lot of discrimination in the state.

By moving toward exclusion and away from inclusion, SB6 contributes to the discriminatory environment that LGBT people face at school, in the workplace, in housing, and in public life – creating health and economic disparities for LGBT people in the state and taking a significant toll on LGBT youth in particular.

SB6 also conflicts with federal laws, the laws of other states, and the policies of most large companies. At least forty of the fifty-one Fortune 500 companies based in Texas have policies prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation, and at least twenty-two of them also prohibit discrimination based on gender identity. In response to a national poll conducted in 2011, 73 percent of respondents from Texas said that employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity should be prohibited in the U.S. As a result of SB6, Texas risks the following economic impacts: Loss of Business Investment – The loss of hundreds of millions of dollars of business investment, leading to the loss of thousands of jobs – an impact that other states, such as North Carolina, have experienced when they have passed similar laws; Reduced Travel and Tourism – The loss of millions of dollars of travel, tourism, and event spending that would support local jobs and state and local tax revenues; Costs of Litigation and Enforcement – There would be significant costs in pursuing and defending litigation and enforcement actions related to SB6; Loss of Federal Funding – The loss of over billions of dollars in federal contracts and grants, including $10 billion in funding for Texas schools, colleges, and universities. Despite a recent decision by a Texas federal court, this funding will be at risk until the Supreme Court resolves the issue later this year.

Further, a growing body of research finds that supportive workplace policies and practices have a positive impact on employer outcomes. By adding to an already challenging environment for LGBT people and pre-empting local laws, SB6 undermines the advantages of diversity in the workplace, erodes worker productivity, and makes talented LGBT and non-LGBT employees in Texas more difficult to recruit and retain: Productivity – Research shows that a poor legal and social climate can mean that LGBT workers are less likely to be openly LGBT at work and more likely to be distracted, disengaged, and less productive; Retention – When LGBT workers are in less supportive workplaces, they feel less employer loyalty and are more likely to leave. Each LGBT employee who leaves a job in Texas would cost thousands of dollars to replace; Recruitment – Many LGBT and nonLGBT workers, in particular millennials, prefer to work for LGBT-inclusive companies and in states with more supportive laws. SB6 would make it harder for Texas to attract the best and brightest.

Sophia Tesfaye posted on salon.com on Jan. 6: Republicans in at least six states are rushing to replicate the discriminatory anti-trans legislation passed by GOP state lawmakers in North Carolina. Widely known as “the bathroom bill,” the law cost the state millions in lost revenue.

Already in the first week of 2017, Republicans in Texas and Virginia have introduced legislation modeled after North Carolina’s disastrous HB2, a law that prohibits municipalities from passing anti-discrimination legislation and bars transgender people from using any bathroom which does not correspond to the gender stated on their birth certificate.

(Empty Closet: Gov. McAuliffe of Virgin-

ia has said he would veto such a bill; see article in this section.)

The so-called bathroom bill has been highly controversial since its introduction and has been deemed in violation of the Civil Rights Acts of 1964 by the Department of Justice, putting hundreds of millions in federal funding for education under Title IX in jeopardy. Since HB2 was signed into law in 2016, several NCAA and ACC championship games were moved from North Carolina and rescheduled; PayPal and Deutsche Bank both promised to halt expansion plans in the state. Forbes has estimated that the state lost $600 million over six months because of HB2.

Political observers in the Tar Heel state have credited Republican Pat McCrory’s staunch support for HB2 as a major reason for the loss of his gubernatorial re-election campaign. Despite that fact, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is now proudly prioritizing his state’s effort to mimic the transphobic law.

Patrick unveiled the “Privacy Protection Act” at the Texas State Capitol.

Senate Bill 6 would require transgender people to use bathrooms in public schools, government buildings and public universities “according to their biological sex” and would pre-empt local nondiscrimination ordinances that allow transgender Texans to use the bathroom that corresponds with their gender identity. Some of the state’s biggest cities — including Dallas, Austin and Fort Worth — have had comprehensive ordinances on the books for a decade, offering transgender residents some degree of protection against discrimination in employment, housing and other public areas such as bathrooms.

-Read more at salon.com

President Obama commutes Chelsea Manning’s sentence The Obama administration announced Jan. 17 the commutation of Chelsea Manning’s sentence for disclosing classified information that raised public awareness regarding the impact of war on innocent civilians. Manning will reportedly be freed in May 2017.

“I’m relieved and thankful that the president is doing the right thing and commuting Chelsea Manning’s sentence,” said Chase Strangio, a staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union’s LGBT Project representing Manning. “Since she was first taken into custody, Chelsea has been subjected to long stretches of solitary confinement — including for attempting suicide — and has been denied access to medically necessary health care. This move could quite literally save Chelsea’s life, and we are all better off knowing that Chelsea Manning will walk out of prison a free woman, dedicated to making the world a better place and fighting for justice for so many.”

Manning, a transgender woman, is in the seventh year of an unprecedented 35-year sentence and has been forced to serve her sentence in an all-male prison.

The ACLU previously filed a friend-ofthe-court brief in support of the appeal of Manning’s conviction, arguing that the prosecution of Manning under the Espionage Act violated the Constitution

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET because it leads to prosecutions where a court gives no consideration to the public interest. The ACLU also argued that such cases give the government too much leeway to selectively prosecute disfavored speakers.

Nancy Hollander and Vince Ward, Manning’s appellate counselors, said in a joint statement, “Ms. Manning is the longest serving whistleblower in the history of the United States. Her 35-year sentence for disclosing information that served the public interest and never caused harm to the United States was always excessive, and we’re delighted that justice is being served in the form of this commutation.”

The president’s decision comes after an outpouring of support for Manning since her unfair and egregious sentence and the ongoing mistreatment throughout her incarceration. In December, the ACLU and over a dozen other LGBT groups sent a letter to President Obama urging him to grant clemency to Manning, and an official White House petition with the same request secured over 100,000 signatures.

The ACLU has represented Manning in a lawsuit against the Department of Defense that was first filed in 2014 over the department’s refusal to treat Manning’s well-documented gender dysphoria.

To read more about the case, click here: https://www.aclu.org/cases/manning-v-hagel-et-al

ACLU files motion to protect trans people, women from discrimination The American Civil Liberties Union on Jan. 9 filed a motion to stay a nationwide court order preventing the federal government from enforcing an Affordable Care Act regulation that protects transgender people and women from discrimination in healthcare. The ACLU also asked the court to issue a formal ruling on its request to intervene in the lawsuit.

The lawsuit, Franciscan Alliance v.

Burwell, was filed by a group of states and religiously affiliated health care organizations that object to the regulation. They argue that they should be allowed to deny essential healthcare services and coverage to transgender people and women.

The ACLU originally moved to intervene on behalf of the ACLU of Texas and the River City Gender Alliance in September because the lawsuit seeks to undermine critical anti-discrimination measures and to allow religion to be used to harm others, including by denying medical care.

On Dec. 31, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction halting the enforcement of the regulation, which implements Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, just hours before it was to go into effect. The nationwide injunction restrains the government from enforcing the regulation to prevent public and private healthcare providers, including hospitals and healthcare centers, from discriminating against transgender people and women. Such discrimination may include harassment, refusal to perform essential healthcare services like reproductive or gender-affirming care, and denials of insurance coverage for essential healthcare services.

“Religious liberty does not mean the right to discriminate or harm others. No one should live in fear of being turned away at a hospital because of who they are, and we’re ready to fight this decision sanctioning discrimination,” said Louise Melling, deputy legal director at the ACLU. “We won’t sit idly by while women and transgender people continue to see their rights come under assault.”

Kate Parrish, president of the Omaha, Nebraska-based River City Gender Alliance, said, “The judge’s court order directs attacks on the transgender community’s right to function normally and safely in everyday life. Our access to medically necessary health care treatment is being restricted simply because of who we are.”

In addition to the Franciscan Alliance, the other plaintiffs in the case are

the Christian Medical & Dental Associations and the states of Texas, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Kentucky (through their governor), Kansas. Arizona, Louisiana, and Mississippi (through their governor).

The ACLU’s motion can be found at: https://www.aclu.org/legal-document/ franciscan-alliance-v-burwell-motion-ruling-intervention-and-stay-preliminary

Gallup poll finds over 10 million Americans identify as LGBT Michael Fitzgerald posts on Towleroad.com: A new survey has shown that more than 10 million Americans now identify as LGBT. According to the poll, the portion of American adults identifying as LGBT increased to 4.1% in 2016 from 3.5% in 2012, an increase of 1.75 million over four years.

The results are based on telephone interviews with a random sample of 1,626,773 U.S. adults, aged 18 and older, living in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, from June 1, 2012, through December 30, 2016.

The survey also found that: LGBT identification increases are more pronounced in women than in men.

The largest increase in LGBT selfidentification among ethnic minorities occurred within the Asian population.

LGBT identification increased among all income and education groups.

Increases in LGBT identification were largely among those who are not religious.

Based on replies from more than 49,000 respondents, Gallup says that millennials drive virtually all of the increases observed in overall LGBT self-identification. Millennials identifying as LGBT increased from 5.8% in 2012 to 7.3% in 2016 while LGBT identification remained relatively stable over the five-year period at among Generation X and declined slightly among baby boomers and traditionalists.

According to Gallup, the fact that data security and confidentiality are not major concerns of millennials could help to explain why that group are so much more likely to identify as LGBT when compared with other generations.

(Image via Wikipedia) -Read more on Towleroad.com

Evan Low

Calif. ban on taxpayerfunded trips to antiLGBT states went into effect on Jan. 1 From the Bay Area Reporter: California has banned most taxpayer-funded travel to four states that have adopted anti-LGBT laws. In addition to the three Southern states that the state attorney general’s office had identified in November for inclusion on the list – Mississippi, North Carolina, and Tennessee – Kansas was also named to the official list posted online January 1.

It is the result of Assembly Bill 1887, which was authored by gay Assemblyman Evan Low [photo], going into effect January 1. The AG’s office did not explain its reasons for including the quartet of states (Calif. continues page 11)

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PAGE ONE (Donors from page 3) and be engaged. No more hiding in the bleachers, guys. We are under attack, but we are smarter than they are!” ■

(HRC from page 1) some instances for LGBTQ citizens (to name a few) by allowing business owners/ service providers to refuse service based on their own religious beliefs.

The Bathroom bills target Trans* individuals, preventing them from using the restroom of the gender with which they identify. This is particularly problematic in elementary and high schools when young people are already struggling for acceptance – both of themselves and by others.

EC: What does HRC believe LGBTQ people should be doing now – taking to the streets or establishing structures to support protests later this year as specific issues become identified? Or both?

CEW: Definitely both. It is critical that our community NOT take a “wait and see” approach. We must be proactive and stay ahead of this new curve. Take advantage of educational opportunities, such as our legislative info session on January 25th, “The Road Ahead”, and stay on top of issues as they arise.

I am so happy to see and be part of groups developing here in Rochester aimed at taking action to protect our hard-earned rights and protections.

I’m especially excited about the coalitions being formed between groups of various focuses – not just LGBTQ – to work together to prevent this incoming administration from bulldozing the civil rights of any marginalized group. There is strength in numbers!

Every LGBTQ person should associate and/or volunteer with a group that speaks to them. There are so many ways to be involved – from actively participating in rallies and meetings to writing letters/ calling political representatives to simply making monetary donations to help fund the organizations leading the charge – we all need to participate in whatever way fits our comfort level and means…the key here is ACTION. EC: What do you feel are the most effective ways for us to protect our rights and our families?

CEW: Share your stories – change hearts and minds, both on a public/ political scale with elected officials and anti-LGBTQ people/groups, as well as within your own family. Do not be afraid to speak up to correct falsehoods and misinformation being perpetuated. Tell people how anti-LGBTQ legislation personally affects you/your family. Participate in action groups and encourage your friends and family to join you.

EC: How likely is it that marriage equality could be repealed?

CEW: In the immediate future, not

THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017 likely since the five SCOTUS justices who ruled in favor are still sitting members of the Court. If, however, any of those four retire or pass away and President Trump has an opportunity to seat another conservative judge, the Religious Right and Ultra-conservatives are ready to take full advantage.

EC: How will state and federal antigay legislation affect us? NYS seems less vulnerable than GOP-controlled states, but can New Yorkers be affected by antigay moves coming out of Washington?

CEW: Anti-gay legislation affects our entire community. New Yorkers need to think beyond our borders. We should all want the freedom to move around this country as life/opportunity may dictate and not have to limit or compromise our job searches, retirement locales, or growing our families to NY or other LGBTQfriendly states.

Conservative law-makers know they cannot immediately reverse marriage equality, so they will focus on state and local level laws to start chipping away and weakening our Federal protections. We all must pay attention to proposed antiLGBTQ legislation whenever and wherever it arises and rally to defeat it because, if passed, it sets a precedent for future court cases. Judges tend to refer to prior or lower court rulings when considering their own rulings in similar cases.

Again, the Religious Freedom bills are the most dangerous examples – they already exist in several locations and there are many on the legislative agendas around the country. The goal of conservatives is to eventually make it a Federal Constitutional amendment. ■

students’ educational outcomes and mental health. The research also confirmed that lower levels of harassment and better educational outcomes are related to the presence of school-based supports: LGBTQ-inclusive anti-bullying policies, LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum, supportive educators and Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs).

For New York specifically, the report found: • The vast majority of LGBTQ students in New York regularly heard antiLGBT remarks. Many also regularly heard school staff make homophobic remarks (19 percent) and negative remarks about someone’s gender expression (30 percent).

• Most LGBTQ students in New York had been victimized at school. Of those, half never reported the incident to school staff (51 percent). Only 33 percent of those students who reported incidents said it resulted in effective staff intervention.

• Many LGBTQ students in New York reported discriminatory policies or practices at their school. Nearly half (49 percent) experienced at least one form of

discrimination at school during the past year. In New York, two-thirds of transgender students (66 percent) were unable to use the school restroom that aligned with their gender identity.

• Many LGBTQ students in New York did not have access to in-school resources and supports. Only one in five (22 percent) attended a school with a comprehensive anti-bullying/harassment policy; almost a third (31 percent) had access to an LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum. However, three-quarters (77 percent) could identify six or more supportive school staff, and 68 percent had access to a GSA or similar student club.

“We have so much more work to do, but we have seen what works in New York to improve school climates for LGBTQ students: supportive educators, the statewide Dignity for All Students Act and school-level anti-bullying policies that specifically protect LGBTQ students, supportive student clubs and school curriculum that positively depicts LGBTQ topics,” said Rob Conlon, Chair (GLSEN continued on page 11)

LOCAL AND STATE (Commission continued from page 3) will serve to advance the courts’ outreach and advocacy efforts on behalf of the LGBT community, including our topmost priorities to enhance judicial diversity and bring more LGBT members into our non-judicial workforce.

Chief Judge DiFiore and I look forward to working with Judges Kahn and Garry, the Commission members and the court system’s justice partners as we seek to attain these goals,” said Chief Administrative Judge Marks.

GLSEN: NY schools improve but remain hostile to LGBTQ youth On Jan. 11, GLSEN released statelevel data from its benchmark National School Climate Survey, which shows that U.S. secondary schools are slowly improving but remain hostile environments for many lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) students.

The biennial survey, which began in 1999, found that harassment and discrimination negatively affect LGBTQ

Open Arms holds its first Naming Ceremony

By DJ Dehmler On Sunday, Jan. 8, Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church held its first ever Naming Ceremony to honor and affirm the names and pronouns of seven individuals who identify as transgender or gender variant.

During the ceremony, Provisional Pastor Brae Adams told the biblical story of Jacob, who wrestled with an angel all night and, in the morning, was renamed Israel, which means “one who has wrestled with God and has overcome.” This story was used as an analogy for the struggles trans and gender variant people face on their journey to claim their true identity. Each of the seven participants was asked to give their chosen name and which pronouns they use. The congregation publicly affirmed their acceptance of and support for each of the seven. The ceremony concluded with a prayer of blessing for the participants Several participants shared their thoughts afterwards. Kathy said, “It was a beautiful thing to be able to be recognized as my chosen name.”

BJ commented that “... it was very progressive and wonderful to see that people are finally coming around and realizing things are more diversified than you might think and diversity is good and should be embraced by all.”

Another participant and firsttime Open Arms attendee, Moxxi, thought “... the ceremony was amazing. It was really reaffirming and I gained a whole new level of confidence, honestly, as the person I actually am. It was definitely a very enlightening experience for me.”

Ceremony observers were generally impressed. Genesis felt “... a

lot of pride and joy, not only in my community, but also in my church because I feel as if there is this misconception that churches are not open and affirming for trans or gender variant individuals and this just completely blew that out of the water.” Nicole shared, “I think it’s a very special and important thing that should happen because it’s important that everyone feels comfortable at the church with their pronouns and [chosen] names.”

Kim, an occasional attendee, found the ceremony very moving and said it was something that “... everybody, regardless of their opinions about things like this, should witness because it was clear that it was the fulfillment of people’s true identities and I just thought it was very touching.” Laura found the ceremony to be beautiful “... because we all have an original name not given by parents,” a name known only to God and, eventually, us. “And that’s the name we answer to, so when the names are changed, it’s God’s name for us… God knew what we were going to be, who we were going to be, and what sex we were going to be,” she concluded.

The Naming Ceremony was a goal of Open Arms’ TRANSformative Ministry, which is a faith community that supports and respects people of all gender identities and gender expressions. Its ultimate goal is full transgender inclusion in all aspects of the life of the church, but its mission goes beyond the four walls of the church and includes advocacy for transgender concerns and community education. The congregation plans to hold naming ceremonies in the future as part of its array of available services. ■

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

Interview

Rowan Collins and Jeannie Gainsburg at Pride 2016. Photo: Manuel Peña

New Year’s Reflections and Resolutions from the LGBTQ Academy

By Manuel J. Quinn 2016 was a hell of a year for the LGBTQ Academy (aka: the Education Program at the Gay Alliance). The grand total of presentations and trainings came to 275. If you don’t count weekends that’s more than one a day!

Unfortunately for the LGBTQ Academy staff, they DO count weekends and 2016 often found them awake on a Saturday morning heading off to run a training, or catch a plane at an ungodly hour.

Although the vast majority of the 2016 LGBTQ Academy trainings and presentations took place right here in New York, they also ran programming in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington DC, Indiana, Tennessee, Louisiana, Oklahoma and California.

In addition, they had individuals from 20 different states travel to Rochester to participate in their trainings!

Here is a bit more about the year in review and a look at the future from LGBTQ Academy Education Director Jeanne Gainsburg and Education Coordinator Rowan Collins.

Can you share a highlight or two from your work at the Academy in 2016?

JEANNE: We had a very quiet, nonbinary participant in one of our SafeZone Train-The-Trainer Certification Programs this past year. I wondered throughout the training what this individual was thinking and feeling. After the training they told us that they had never felt so safe in their entire life or as passionate about an issue. It was a compliment that made me incredibly proud and it will stick with me for a long, long time.

ROWAN: For me, the biggest highlight was definitely the sheer volume and range of trainings we were able to provide across Rochester, New York State, and the country. We worked with more than 20 school districts, 25 colleges and universities, unions such as NYSUT and CSEA, local hospitals and clinics, social service providers, shelters and emergency housing organizations, arts non-profits, businesses, and way more. It’s been a pretty neat ride and it looks like 2017 will be even bigger!

What inspires you?

ROWAN: LGBTQ+ youth. So many others in our community and beyond inspire me as well, but seeing young kids and teenagers who are self-aware, proud,

and involved is amazing.

Very early into my time here as a staff member at the Alliance we worked with a local school that had a kindergartener who had come out as transgender. Seeing the administration’s insistence on creating a more inclusive school, as well as meeting that student – who was so certain and comfortable with themselves – was like a breath of fresh air. Helping to create the sort of welcoming environment and systemic support that I didn’t have growing up is so meaningful.

JEANNE: I am inspired by our LGBTQ Academy volunteer trainers and Speakers Bureau Members. These folks are really putting themselves out there, sharing their stories, and answering some pretty personal questions in an effort to break down those pesky LGBTQ myths and stereotypes. They are brave and giving souls who are truly changing the world by making themselves vulnerable.

What superpower do you bring to the Gay Alliance?

JEANNE: Like Elsa from Frozen, I am in total control.

ROWAN: The power of snazzy dressing. I’m rather well known within our tiny staff – and huge volunteer base – for my sartorial choices. Whether it’s my boots or polka dot shirts, I’m fairly certain the only one better dressed in the office is Icey, our LGBTQ Center Director’s puppy. Her sweater collection is unrivaled.

JEANNE: It’s absolutely true. Rowan is a snappy dresser. I, on the other hand, am still wearing items I purchased in college.

What’s the worst thing about your current job and the best?

ROWAN: This feels like a trick question! The worst thing about my job might be the action-and-travel-packed calendar. The LGBTQ Academy has a pretty relentless training schedule that has us on the go year-round, sometimes traveling out of the area and across the country multiple times a month. Though there is a certain pizzazz to airports and hotels, the shine can only compensate for so many dark circles under my eyes!

However, the best thing about my job completely makes up for the early mornings and long hours and weather delays.

I feel like I make a difference in the lives of others. A real, tangible difference that starts with a conversation and ripples out beyond what I’ll ever know. Being able to speak and connect with thousands of people of all backgrounds and experienc-

es is a gift. The most important work is what I see us doing here in the Rochester community, because that immediately impacts our local community and I can see the impact we are able to spark.

JEANNE: The worst thing is that I can’t clone Rowan.

ROWAN: Haha!

JEANNE: OK, seriously, I think the worst thing is that social justice work in this country is still so undervalued and that we are constantly having to pinch pennies to do this incredibly valuable work that truly helps everyone. The best thing is if my grandkids ever ask me what I did during the civil rights fight for LGBTQ equality I think I’m going to have a pretty solid answer.

What is an unexpected bonus of your work?

JEANNE: Since the earliest days working at the Gay Alliance, 13 years ago, my desk has always collected an assortment of treasures. I think we might

7 have house elves. Some of my favorite offerings have been an Elsa doll that says, “I’m in total control,” a certificate declaring that I am an “honorary lesbian” and a strawberry flavored dental dam.

ROWAN: All of the connections I’ve made! With the LGBTQ Academy expanding so much in the last two years to schools, universities, health providers, and businesses throughout the Rochester area, I continually run into folks I’ve trained out-and-about in the city. It’s that kind of connection that makes Rochester feel more familiar to a transplant like me. It’s great to see faces from trainings pop up at our LGBTQ Resource Center because they felt inspired to get involved, or to see some of our volunteers on a night out or at a rally or fundraiser for another great non-profit.

What is your New Year’s Resolution for 2017?

ROWAN: Take more risks and give more hugs.

JEANNE: Drink more coffee. ■

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FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

Making the Scene

NYS Assembly member Harry Bronson presents an award to WAD concert organizer Scotty Ginett.

FINAL WORLD AIDS DAY CONCERT: Thomas Warfield, creator of the World AIDS Day concerts, performs at the final concert on Dec. 1 at Third Presbyterian Church. Photos: Doug Meszler

Jimmie Highsmith Jr.

Christopher Coles

VALENTI READING: Dr. Bill Valenti read from his book, “AIDS: A Matter of Urgency” at the Rochester Academy of Medicine on Nov. 30. Photo: Doug Meszler

Mrs. Kasha Davis

Scott Shutts

SOLIDARITY RALLY: Over 2,000 women and men rallied here in Rochester for women’s rights and all social justice issues on Jan. 21, and over 8,000 marched in Seneca Falls. Washington D.C. saw 500,000 in the streets; millions marched in 600 cities around the US and on all seven continents. The Gay Alliance partnered with local organizations including Action Together Rochester-Stronger Together WNY, B.L.A.C.K., Planned Parenthood of Central and WNY Action Fund, Metro Justice, NOW and labor, disability and environmental activist groups. NYS Assembly member Harry Bronson spoke for the LGBTQ community, urging us to dedicate ourselves to the struggle for social justice, to confront our own biases and to reach out to working people on the Right. Photos: Doug Meszler. More coverage on Empty Closet News/Facebook or go to www.gayalliance.org and click on Empty Closet.

ACTIVISM FAIR: The Fair was held Jan. 15, hosted by a coalition of area groups, at Visual Studies Workshop. David Kramer wrote in “Talker of the Town,” “Everybody said they had never seen anything in Rochester quite like yesterday’s Activism Fair… Between 450-600 people came through the doors to celebrate citizen participation at its most patriotic.” Photo: Doug Meszler

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

LOCAL AND STATE (GLSEN from page 6) of GLSEN Hudson Valley-Ulster SubChapter.

“We should not be comfortable with the state of school climate for LGBTQ students in New York,” said Mary Jane Karger, Chair of GLSEN Hudson ValleyWestchester Sub-Chapter. “We are constantly working on the ground to effect change and help all students thrive.”

“The results of this survey mirror the stories we hear from LGBTQ middle and high school students in New York,” said James Shultis, Co-Chair of GLSEN New York Capital Region. “Schools are still hostile environments for so many of these students, and now more than ever they need our support. Since 1997, just one year after GLSEN was founded as a national organization, our chapter was created. Since that time GLSEN New York Capital Region has been dedicated to ensuring welcoming educational environments for all students to thrive. Through trainings and presentations, support to student groups, days of action, and various events throughout the year we hope to continue inspiring our community to be aware of the needs of LGBTQ students and what they can do to move the bar forward for them.”

“LGBTQ students, like all students, deserve safe and inclusive learning environments, and the high levels of harassment and discrimination they face in New York schools hinder their ability to succeed,” said Eric Paulk, Chair of GLSEN New York City.

State snapshots for 30 states can be found at www.glsen.org/statesnapshots.

To access infographics, an executive summary and the complete GLSEN National School Climate Survey report, visit www. glsen.org/nscs. ■

a law last year allowing therapists and other mental health professionals to deny seeing LGBT patients and others for religious reasons. Kansas last year adopted a law allowing campus-based religious groups to discriminate against LGBT students.

-Read more on JoeMyGod.com

Jai Bornstein

Calif. trans youth may have committed suicide Joe Morgan posted on gaystarnews. com: A 19-year-old is believed to have committed suicide in Bakersfield, California.

Jai Bornstein was declared missing … after being last seen by her Uber driver on Tuesday 27 December.

The driver said Jai had walked directly to the river at Hart Park, and that was the last time she was seen alive.

Three days later, as police, park rangers, search and rescue teams, volunteers and police dogs were all searching for Jai, her father had an admission.

He said Jai had left the house on Tuesday morning with the intent of committing suicide, taking the gun when she left their home, but he “didn’t think [she] had gone through with it”.

The following day, on Saturday, her body was found near the river in Hart Park.

NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL (Calif. from page 5) on the travel ban list on the main page of the website; instead, it included links to the anti-LGBT laws each state has passed at the end of a separate page titled Frequently Asked Questions about the new law.

Low’s legislation was in response to North Carolina lawmakers adopting in early 2016 House Bill 2, which restricts cities in the state from enacting local nondiscrimination laws and requires transgender people to use public restrooms based on the gender they were assigned at birth. Newly sworn in Democratic Governor Roy Cooper has vowed to repeal the law, though an effort to rescind it just prior to Christmas failed.

Mississippi allows for its residents and businesses to discriminate based on their religious beliefs, while Tennessee adopted

Mesha Caldwell

Mesha Caldwell may be first trans murder victim of 2017 Matthew Rodriguez posts on mic.com: Mississippi resident Mesha Caldwell, a black transgender woman, was found dead Jan. 4 outside Canton, Miss., according to Mississippi News Now. Initial media reports misgendered Caldwell as male, according to a family friend.

Mary Young, a friend of Caldwell’s mother who has known her since she was a child, said she was “hurt” when she heard people using male pronouns to describe Caldwell.

Martha M. Howden, LCSW, CASAC Anxiety • Depression Alcohol • Stress • Grief Relationship • Family Plan Rectification Work Holotropic Breathwork • Specializing in work with individuals and families in the Coming Out process Martha M. Howden, lcsw, casac 945 E. Henrietta Road, Suite A6 Rochester, New York 14623 Phone: 585 272-1760 Fax: 585 272-8986 Most Insurances Accepted

According to news reports, police are investigating the death as a homicide.

The Madison County, Mississippi, coroner had not responded to Mic’s request for comment.

Emily Waters, senior manager of national research and policy at the New York City Anti-Violence Project, said the organization was “deeply saddened” by news of Caldwell’s death and sends their thoughts and condolences to Caldwell’s family.

“This is the first homicide of a transgender person that NCAVP has responded to in 2017, during a time of heightened fear and increased violence against LGBTQ communities,” Waters said in a statement. “As we continue to hear more reports of violence, we must remind ourselves that this violence is not normal and fight harder than ever to keep transgender people safe.”

-See more on mic.com

Gay Air Force vet has discharge changed to “honorable” Michael Fitzgerald posts on Towleroad.com: The Air Force has upgraded the discharge of a gay veteran to “honorable”, paving the way for him to have the military funeral he has requested.

In 1948, 91-year-old Hubert Edward Spires was discharged with an “undesirable” designation because he is gay. He had worked as a chaplain’s assistant at Lackland Air Force Base during his service.

After attending a Halloween party in 1948, other attendees reported that Spires was gay, leading to days of interrogation and threats of jail time. He refused to cooperate and was then discharged.

He said he never told his family the reason why he was discharged, out of fear.

According to Fox61, last November Spires filed a suit to change the status to honorable. The Air Force Board for Cor-

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Hubert Edward Spires

rection of Military Records ruled in his favor last week.

Following the decision, he said “It’s about time. I served my time,” he added, “I did my job, there was nothing dishonorable about my service and I deserve credit for that service. I never thought the day would come. I felt a great relief to have this burden off of me.”

He credited his husband and fellow veteran David Rosenberg and his legal team at the Yale Veterans Legal Services Clinic, for helping him win recognition Thousands of gay personnel were dishonorably discharged after World War II and up to the early 1990s. When “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was repealed in 2010, veterans could apply to have the status changed.

Jamie Lee Wounded Arrow of North Dakota is second known trans woman killed this year Daniel Reynolds posted on The Advocate: Another transgender life has been taken in 2017.

Jamie Lee Wounded Arrow is the second reported trans woman to be killed this year, following the homicide investigation of Mesha Campbell in Mississippi.

The native of Sioux Falls, N.D., was discovered by police in her apartment, reports KSFY. Investigators believe her death to be a homicide.

The 28-year-old member of the Oglala (Jamie continues page 12)

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NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL (Jamie from page 11)

Jamie Lee Wounded Arrow

Lakota tribe was part of the group Sioux Falls Two-Spirit and Allies, which released a statement on Facebook mourning her loss.

“Tunkasila has called another one of our community members home,” the statement read, adding, “Our hearts are broken as we will miss her very much. So again, prayers are needed. Pilamaye.”

In the post’s comments, a moderator for the organization said she may have been killed on Jan. 1.

Wounded Arrow was originally from Pine Ridge, S.D., and worked at Lawrence & Schiller TeleServices as a customer service agent, according to her Facebook page. She studied social work at Oglala Lakota College and nursing at a Georgetown University summer program.

North Carolina teacher sues school that fired him for being gay Meka Beresford posts on pinknews. co.uk: A teacher in North Carolina is suing the school he worked at that ‘fired him for being gay’.

69-year-old Lonnie Billard is taking action against the Charlotte Catholic

THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017 High School, which he says, fired him in 2014 after he publicly announced his plans to marry his partner Richard Donham.

The school was not in breach of state law in letting Billard go, but the move did violate federal law which is what Billard is suing for.

The former substitute teacher said that his relationship was known throughout the school, but was told he violated school rules when he posted about it on Facebook.

Local diocese spokesman David Hains publicly stated that Billard was let go for “going on Facebook, entering into a samesex relationship, and saying it in a very public way that he does not agree with the teachings of the Catholic Church,” according to the lawsuit.

The former English and Drama teacher is suing the school under the sex discrimination clause of the Civil Rights Act with the help of the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

“I know that the Catholic Church opposes same-sex marriage, but I don’t think my commitment to my husband has any bearing on my work in the classroom,” Billard said in a statement. “I have never hidden the fact that I’m gay and my relationship with my partner was no secret at school.”

Billard said that the classroom had always felt “like home” to him.

“People should be able to fall in love and get married without risking their jobs,” he said.

Billard opted to begin the suit in light of the recent lawsuits in the state which are challenging a series of laws that discriminate against LGBT people.

The main bill that is being targeted is the HB2 law which stipulates that transgender people must use the bathroom of the gender they were assigned at birth.

-Read more on pinknews.co.uk

Sally Sarratt and Maria Swearingen

Lesbian couple named co-pastors of historic DC Baptist church Joe Morgan posts on gaystarnews.com: What’s better than having an LGBTI religious leader of faith at your progressive church? How about two?

A historic church in Washington DC has named a married lesbian couple, Sallay Sarratt and Maria Swearingen, as their newest co-pastors.

Calvary Baptist Church in northwest DC announced the hiring during morning worship on 8 January, where they were approved by the congregation.

“We have found it so easy to fall in love with Calvary and its longstanding commitment to be a voice of justice and compassion for those who perpetually find the wholeness of their humanity disregarded and maligned,” Sarratt and Swearingen said.

The progressive church, an affiliate of American Baptist Churches USA, severed its ties with the Southern Baptist Convention in 2012 over the denomination’s opposition to same-sex marriage and the ordination of gay clergy.

Carol Blythe, chair of Calvary’s Ministerial Selection Committee, said: “As we met and talked with Sally and Maria about their vision for pastoral leadership at Calvary, we were struck by their deep faith and commitment to being part of a gospel community.

“We were impressed with how their gifts, talents, and experience matched our ministry priorities — and we are thrilled about their upcoming pastorate and the versatility the co-pastor model will provide our congregation.”

UPDATE: A “Christian” hate mob stormed the church to protest the appointment according to R.S. Benedict of Unicorn Booty.

and to work for all of North Carolina.

“I pledge to give my very best to the people of this great state of North Carolina, the state I love and where I have spent my life.”

However, he faces an uphill battle on the issue, as Republicans maintain control of both houses of the state legislature.

Prior to Cooper taking office, the GOP also passed a string of laws pre-emptively limiting his executive power, which means the likelihood of repealing the law without cross-party support remains low.

GOP breaks their word A compromise deal to repeal HB2 fell apart in December. Republicans initially agreed to repeal HB2 in return for the repeal of LGBT rights protections in the Democrat-controlled City of Charlotte.

Though the Democrats held up their end of the deal, it fell apart when the Republicans violated their end of the agreement by attempting to introduce a clause in their own repeal bill re-banning LGBT rights ordinances.

Attempts to resolve the issue fell apart in a special legislature session.

Governor Cooper has vowed to push forward.

He said, “The legislature had a chance to do the right thing for North Carolina, and they failed.

“I am disappointed that Republican legislative leaders refused to live up to their promise to fully repeal House Bill 2.

I’m disappointed for the people of North Carolina – the jobs that they may not get. I’m disappointed that we haven’t yet removed the stain from our reputation around the country and around the world.

“People want us to work together for the good of our state. I know there were enough Democratic and Republican votes to fully repeal HB 2 by itself. But Republican legislative leaders have broken their word to me and broken their trust with the people.

“My staff and I worked day and night through the past week to forge an agreement that would bring back jobs and sporting events. For the first time ever on this issue, we had House Republican leaders, Senate Republican leaders, Senate Democrats, House Democrats, the Charlotte City Council, business leaders, sports leaders and the LGBT leaders in agreement.

“The Charlotte City Council held up its end of the deal by repealing its ordinance. When it came time for Republican legislative leaders to do their job, they failed.

“This was our best chance. This cannot be our last chance.”

Pulse survivors, victims honored at Rose Parade NC Democratic governor sworn in; GOP reduces his power, keeps HB2 Nick Duffy posts on pinknews.co.uk: North Carolina’s new Governor Roy Cooper has been sworn into office, after unseating incumbent Pat McCrory.

North Carolina has lost a string of big investment ventures over Republican Governor Pat McCrory’s decision to sign the contentious HB2 – which voided all local ordinances protecting LGBT rights, banned transgender people from using their preferred bathroom, and permits businesses to discriminate against LGBT people on the grounds of religious belief.

Although GOP Presidential candidate Donald Trump comfortably took the state during November’s election elections, an apparent split-ticket vote saw McCrory defeated in his re-election battle by Democratic challenger Roy Cooper – with polling suggesting that HB2 was the decisive issue.

Governor Cooper was sworn in after officially taking power at midnight on Jan. 1.

The new Governor, who has vowed to repeal HB2 as soon as possible, said, “It is the honor of my life to be your governor,

Daniel Reynolds posted on The Advocate: Survivors of the Pulse massacre took center stage at the 128th Rose Parade.

Victor Baez Febo and Isaiah Henderson waved to the cheering crowd Jan. 2 at the annual New Years Day celebration in Pasadena, Calif. They rode on a float commissioned by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and Impulse Group United, which honored the 49 victims and dozens of survivors of last year’s shooting at the Pulse Nightclub.

Survivor Jahqui Sevilla and Pulse’s owner Barbara Poma were also on the float, according to a press release from AHF. Other riders — who had aided in Orlando’s healing and recovery — included Patty Sheehan, an out city commissioner of the Florida city, case worker and HIV counselor Joel Morales, and

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

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2423 Monroe Avenue Rochester, New York 14618 Phone: 585 746-3010 Email: pat@onecustomclothier.com Website: onecustomclothier.com Impulse Group Orlando’s president Corey Lyons and vice president Gustavo Marrero.

The float, titled “To Honor and Remember Orlando” and created by Fiesta Parade Floats of Irwindale, featured a large dove as a symbol of peace; twice throughout the march, 49 live doves were released in honor of the victims. A rainbow served as a symbol of the LGBT community. Real-life messages of sorrow and solidarity were also tied to a “tree of life.”

Lyons said that while the float honored the dead, it also spoke to the struggles yet to come for the living in the fight for equality.

“We must not lose sight of the fact that this beautiful float also serves as a solemn and sacred reminder to millions of parade viewers around the world that the stigma and discrimination that led to this attack are not over — the fight goes on, and we must be vigilant in speaking out and speaking out against such bigotry, hatred and injustice,” said Lyons.

-Read more and see video on The Advocate EC update: The city of Orlando will not buy the nightclub and turn it into a memorial, as previously reported, since owner Barbara Poma has refused to sell.

Peru must recognize Mexican same sex marriage, court rules Stephanie Gerdes posts on gaystarnews. com: Peru has to recognize same-sex marriages entered abroad, a court has decided.

The ruling was made by the seventh Constitutional Court in the capital of Lima, following a lawsuit by a gay couple.

Oscar Ugarteche Galarza and his Mexican husband Fidel Aroche Reyes live in Mexico City, where marriage is open to same-sex couples.

On 12 January 2012, Galarza applied to have his marriage entered into the register.

Oscar Ugarteche Galarza

It was struck down in March of the same year.

He then sued the Peruvian government, demanding to recognize his marriage as legitimate and for it to be added to the register.

On Dec. 9, the court ruled in Galarza’s favor, in a move which has been hailed as bringing the country one step closer to marriage equality.

“The court is of the belief that our administration of justice has to be interpreted on the basis of changes to and the needs of our society,” the ruling read.

“And thereby, it finds a great part of society speaking out for the legal equality of homosexual couples.”

Activists welcomed the ruling, calling it a precedent and saying it could change the world for rainbow families.

“This case law is historical which doesn’t just recognize the existence of same-sex marriages, which many Peruvians already live in,” activist Gio Infante said. “It’s also a big step towards the full legal recognition of rainbow families.

The ruling’s symbolic character is big, because it relates to the marriage of a man who, more than 30 years ago, co-founded Lima’s homosexual movement.”

He hopes the registrar’s office would refrain from appealing the ruling. “It would force us into an even longer legal battle, which we would still win,” Infante said. “Because the law is on our side, on the right side of history.”

In response to the ruling, Peru’s congress is reportedly preparing for a debate

on a possible law on civil partnerships.

In March 2015, the government rejected a draft law by gay MP Carlos Bruce, which would’ve established marriage equality.

Homosexuality is legal in Peru, although laws protecting “public morals” are often used against the LGBTI community.

-Read more on gaystarnews.com

US drag queen Mimi Infurst performs in Cuba Nick Duffy posts on pinknews.co.uk: Former RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant Mimi Imfurst has became the first American drag queen to perform in Cuba, as relations develop between the two countries.

A strict trade embargo of Cuba spanning more than 50 years has generally prevented US artists from performing in Havana, but President Obama relaxed the measures in 2015 for the first time.

Taking advantage of the friendlier relations, drag queen Mimi Imfurst became the first to perform a show in the country, performing on New Years Eve with help from local LGBT groups.

The culture gap was apparent from the start – with the local dancers taking part in the show having never heard Madonna’s ‘Express Yourself’ before.

However, the performers overcame the cultural and language gap for a groundbreaking performance “in hopes that it will inspire American and Cuban relations to continue to improve”.

Mimi Imfurst, real name Braden Chapman, explained: “The moment was overwhelming, the idea that we can come together to create a piece of art -- to come together -- to express ourselves and encourage others to think about the possibilities that lie before us when we try to bridge the divides that stand between us.

“My trip to Cuba was life changing. I got to experience the rich history and cul-

ture of Cuba by living in their houses and spending the week disconnecting from the outside world. More importantly the Cuban people are incredible.

“They have fought through a strict embargo and have thrived with nothing more than the tenacity of the human spirit.

“That is inspiring for us all and at the end of the day, that is what will always win.”

Homosexuality has been legal in Cuba since 1979, but there was little progress on the issue under former President Fidel Castro – who oversaw the persecution of gay men early in his rule.

However, in recent years the country has seen a growing pro-LGBT movement as Cuba begins to look outwards towards the rest of the world – though there are still little anti-discrimination protection for LGBT people and no partnership rights for same-sex couples.

Mariela Castro, the daughter of current President Raúl Castro, has been a loud supporter of LGBT rights.

-Read at pinknews.co.uk

Va. governor signs executive order protecting LGBT rights Governor Terry McAuliffe has signed executive order 61, which protects the rights of LGBT people in public services.

The Order extends pre-existing protections on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity for state employees to contractors and in the delivery of state services.

The move was celebrated by the Human Rights Campaign.

“While anti-equality politicians are introducing legislation targeting LGBTQ people, Governor McAuliffe is standing up against discrimination and sending a clear message that Virginia is open for business and welcoming to all,” said ( Va. continues page 14)

14 (Va. continued from page 13) JoDee Winterhof, HRC Senior Vice President for Policy and Political Affairs.

“This executive order will help to ensure contractors doing business with the state are not using taxpayer funds to discriminate against LGBTQ people. Governor McAuliffe is a champion for equality and continues to lead the way forward in the fight to ensure all Virginians are treated equally with dignity and respect, regardless of who they are or whom they love.”

Governor McAuliffe has also vowed to veto a proposed anti-trans ‘bathroom bill’ in his state.

Trans model will be first to walk in India’s premier fashion show This model is set to be the first transgender woman to walk at the upcoming premier fashion events in India this month.

Anjali Lama, from Nepal, won the chance to model as the shows in Mumbai over the first week of February. She snagged the gig after her application to the shows last year were rejected.

“It wasn’t easy for me in the early days when there was so much rejection and discrimination,” the 32-year-old told Reuters.

“Now I am getting an overwhelming response from the fashion industry after being selected, and other transgender people tell me they are proud of me.”

Lama’s journey to get to the point has been turbulent.

The model was signed to an agency in Kathmandu, but was still living as a trans woman in secret. However, somebody found out and told her family who cut off communication with Lama.

“My mother, to some extent, was more accepting but there really wasn’t much awareness then,” Lama said.

“There is more awareness and acceptance now in Nepal, and that has helped more people like me to come out,” she said.

Lama first understood her trans iden-

THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017 tity after watching a show called “Struggle” which was about people who did not associate with the under assigned at birth.

“That day I understood,” Lama said.

“I am also that kind of person.”

The fashion week aims to promote inclusivity and pass the constrained boundaries of gender, size and beauty in fashion.

-Read more on pinknews.co.uk

ACLU begins to challenge Trump, protect Constitution The American Civil Liberties Union has taken legal action seeking documents on conflicts of interest and violations of the Constitution and federal law posed by President Trump’s and his family’s business interests. The organization also released a Seven-Point Plan laying out how it intends to challenge other Trump policies and protect the Constitution.

The efforts are made possible by the organization’s new Constitution Defense Fund, which was established following the election.

The first legal action, filed Jan. 19, is a Freedom of Information Act request asking several government agencies to turn over all documents relating to President Trump’s actual or potential conflicts of interest to his business and family connections. The request seeks legal opinions, memoranda, advisories, and communications from the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel, the Office of Government Ethics, the General Services Administration, and the office of Personnel Management from November 9, 2016, to January 20, 2017. The request includes email and all other communication to and from the presidential transition team.

“We are bringing this first legal action using the Freedom of Information Act to underscore the fact that President Trump is not above the law. Trump took the oath, but he didn’t take the steps necessary to ensure that he and his family’s business interests comply with the Constitution and other federal statutes,” said Anthony D. Romero, executive director of the ACLU. “Freedom of information requests are our democracy’s X-ray, and they will be vitally important to expose and curb the abuses of a president who believes the rules don’t apply to him and his family. We also know that more legal action will be needed when the new administration attempts to enact

some of their unconstitutional proposals. The ACLU’s charge, laid out in our Seven-Point Plan, is to stand ready to confront any unconstitutional elements of the administration’s agenda — today on day one and for the next four years.”

The ACLU’s Seven-Point Plan details potential legal challenges to the Trump administration’s enacting of unconstitutional policies, including: Demanding government accountability and transparency; Protecting the rights of immigrants; Defending reproductive rights; Securing the First Amendment; Advancing LGBT rights; Defending core civil rights and civil liberties from erosion; Mobilizing Americans to defend our Constitution.

Over the next four years, the ACLU will implement its Seven-Point Plan by adding up to 100 full-time employees across the country, paid for by its Constitution Defense Fund, which has already attracted nearly 400,000 donations since Election Day. “The ACLU has established the Constitution Defense Fund to bolster its ability to add staff to litigate, advocate, and mobilize Americans to make change at the federal level, at statehouses and in the court of public opinion,” added Romero.

“With thousands of lawyers now under the command of Trump and his appointees, we need all the support we can get in order to litigate against the administration and deploy other hard-nosed tactics in the battle to protect the rights of all people.

We will litigate every unconstitutional policy this administration tries to enact, robbing them of time and bandwidth, making their style of governing cumbersome and hopefully impossible.”

Studies find kids raised by same sex parents are healthier, happier David Hudson posts on gaystarnews. com: Mexican media company Cultura Colectiva has produced an awesome little

video that presents some facts about children raised by same-sex parents.

It draws upon findings from the 20-year-long Longitudinal Lesbian Family Study in the US. This found that kids raised by lesbians showed higher than average psychological stability and improved academic achievement.

It notes that the kids of gay parents only tend to be harmed if exposed to homophobic violence from outside their family.

Several other reports have presented similar findings. A study by UCLA’s Williams Institute in Los Angeles in 2014 found that ‘despite confronting heterosexism in a variety of social contexts – including the health care system, the legal system, and the school system – LGB parents and their children are functioning quite well.’

A study published by Melbourne University in the same year went further, saying children raised by same-sex couples were, on average, healthier and happier.

The study’s author, Dr Simon Crouch suggested to ABC this was partly due to a more equal division of role sharing in the upbringing of children.

‘Previous research has suggested that parenting roles and work roles, and home roles within same-sex parenting families are more equitably distributed when compared to heterosexual families.

‘So what this means is that people take on roles that are suited to their skill sets rather than falling into those gender stereotypes, which is mum staying home and looking after the kids and dad going out to earn money.

‘What this leads to is a more harmonious family unit and therefore leading on to better health and wellbeing.’

Other researchers have pointed out that gay couples tend to have to go to greater lengths to start a family, and have to be very determined to become parents. By contrast, heterosexual couples can sometimes become parents without planning, which can impact on their subsequent childcaring abilities. This can effect ‘average’ findings when looking at heterosexual couples.

All experts tend to agree on one thing: children thrive when brought up by parents and care-givers who love and want them, regardless of sexuality.

As Cultura Colectiva’s video concludes: ‘If they don’t care about their parent’s sexuality, why should society?”

-Read more on gaystarnews.com ■

Come worship among Friends…

Rochester Friends Meeting (Quakers) 84 Scio Street (downtown)

Sunday worship, 11:00 am (10:00 am from Memorial Day to Labor Day) Child care, Free parking, Wheelchair access www.rochesterquakers.org • 325-7260

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

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Opinion Ages of Acceptance. The medical and psychological fields had not caught up with reality. Together, they claimed and impounded too many vulnerable psyches.

Mine included.

When, at last, the shadow of my former self could no longer languish in the pain of denial, a voice deep within cried out, “ENOUGH! I can’t do this anymore!

I don’t want to do this anymore!”

I was in love with a beautiful, gentle and talented woman. Our hearts became one even as I tossed and turned and tried to deny the love that filled my being. I was home at last, but as a closeted lesbian, it was as though I were an undocumented immigrant in this Land of Bliss. I had yet to “file for residency” in the truth of my reality.

Being brought up Roman Catholic, I was indoctrinated with threats of damnation to hell. The Church had convinced me and so many others of our unworthiness and our sinfulness. Being doubleteamed by Church and State, we didn’t stand a chance.

I had hit bottom. Physically, emotionally and spiritually I was spent. But someone was watching and approached me. An “angel” appeared to “proclaim the truth.” A renegade Catholic nun recognized my pain and my challenges.

From her lips came God’s Words: “You are whole. You are sinless. You are perfect just as you are. You have a right to your life, to happiness. As does your husband.”

As spiritual insight healed my soul, my emaciated body began to recover. I took responsibility and ownership of my life and my happiness. My wife and I profess our love to each other every single day, in fact numerous times throughout the day. We know that we each moved heaven and earth to lay claim to our happiness and peace. We know an authentic and fulfilling life is possible.

I share my story as a way of offering hope to those who are struggling and who have been taught to devalue themselves, as I had.

And I offer my story to let you know that I am here to offer you hope: You have a right to peace. You have a right to live your life as you were created. You

Rev. Barb Adams

Telling my story: offering hope, peace and joy

By Reverend Barbara Adams, O.M.C. As an ordained ministerial counselor, I have identified myself in numerous ways throughout my lifetime: a teacher, coach, administrator; a woman married to a man, a woman married to a woman; a mother, nonna, singer, musician, author; a life-long learner and non-denominational minister. However, when asked about my identity, I also proudly state that I am a gay woman/lesbian.

Gloriously proclaiming my sexual identity did not come fast or easy. It took me well over 40 years to come to terms with my natural self. Too many years were spent in denial and pain; fear was my constant companion. Fear of acknowledging the truth. Fear of being outed. After all, having been married to a (wonderful, kind, generous and forgiving) man for almost 20 years and having two children, truth was the last thing I wanted to snuggle up to. Truth could have claimed my job.

All of this was years before Ellen Degeneres made her brave claim on national TV. It was also well before we were granted the right to marry. Much of this, in fact, took place in the Dark

ON GARD

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have a right to openly live your life with the one you love. You have a right to joy.

Claim it!

Spiritual Awakening, Healing the Inner Child and Accessing Inner Wisdom are among my offerings to individuals and groups. No one will be turned away. Come hear words of hope, joy and acceptance. On Sunday, March 12, I will

be preaching at the Dignity-Integrity 5 p.m. service. As part of my talk, I’ll be singing two songs affirming our wholeness. All are welcome to this circle of love.

Rev. Barbara Adams, O.M.C. is a non-denominational minister who can be contacted at 585.633.8769, or RevBarb@ PeaceandHarmonyMinistry.org. Her website is PeaceandHarmonyMinistry.org ■

IT TOOK ME WELL OVER 40 YEARS TO COME TO TERMS WITH MY NATURAL SELF. TOO MANY YEARS WERE SPENT IN DENIAL AND PAIN; FEAR WAS MY CONSTANT COMPANION. FEAR OF ACKNOWLEDGING THE TRUTH. FEAR OF BEING OUTED.

PFLAG MEETS 3RD SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

Health ties facing the LGBT population and the important role that research plays in identifying and helping to mitigate those disparities, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) officially designated sexual and gender minorities (SGM) as a health disparity population for research.

Read the full report at: https://blog.aids.gov/2016/12/hhsreport-highlights-accomplishments-inadvancing-lgbt-health-and-well-being. html

Bill and Melinda Gates to fund development of implantable PrEP pump GeekWire reports: The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is committing up to $140 million to help Boston biotech company Intarcia Therapeutics develop an HIV prevention device.

The funds will help Intarcia adapt its Medici technology program to deliver a steady stream of HIV medication to healthy patients over an extended period of time. The matchstick-sized device is similar to a birth control implant, dosing out medicine from a tiny pump embedded under the patient’s skin.

The Gates Foundation contribution is divided into two parts. The Seattle nonprofit behemoth is investing $50 million in Intarcia’s latest Series EE round and committing up to $90 million in grants to be awarded as the startup crosses certain milestones.

The anti-HIV prophylactic therapy would be administered to patients once or twice yearly. Intarcia is also developing a drug delivery system to treat type 2 diabetes, using the Medici technology. The startup plans to begin delivering the diabetes medication to patients next year, but development of the anti-HIV prophylactic is expected to take longer.

The PrEP pump will likely make its initial roll out in Western nations, but Intarcia’s long-term goal is for the device to be made widely available across sub-Saharan Africa and other parts of the developing world.

-Read more on JoeMyGod.com

HHS releases annual report on LGBT health The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on Dec. 7 released “Advancing LGBT Health and Well-being”, the sixth annual report of the HHS Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Policy Coordinating Committee.

This 2016 report highlights HHS activities related to advancing the health and well-being of LGBT communities in the United States.

Among other landmark accomplishments in 2016, the Department took three major steps this past year to advance the health and well-being of LGBT individuals: In May, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) released the final rule implementing Section 1557 (the non-discrimination provision) of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which protects against discrimination on the basis of sex, including gender identity and sex stereotyping.

In June, Secretary Burwell announced the creation of a new position for a Senior Advisor for LGBT Health within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (OASH); and, in October, in recognition of the significant health dispari-

Trans victory: NYS Medicaid will cover transition-related care

By Rowan Collins On Dec. 8, the New York State Department of Health formally issued a new rule to amend provisions regarding Medicaid coverage of transition-related care and services for transgender New Yorkers. This time, they expanded that coverage to include transgender minors, or those under the age of 18.

Since March 2015, transgender New Yorkers on Medicaid over the age of 18 have had access to medically necessary hormone treatment and surgeries. Effective 12/8/16, minors under 18 have access to the same coverage. Below is a list of specific regarding what services and care are covered.

The big victory is that hormone blockers are covered, too! This is huge because hormone blockers are life-savers when it comes to young trans kids and their potential transitions. They have been prohibitively expensive so insurance coverage is huge!

The Nitty Gritty NYS Medicaid covers treatment for “gender dysphoria”. Anything that can be billed as a “treatment” (scare quotes there on purpose) for gender dysphoria will be covered.

Hormone replacement therapy is covered for New Yorkers age 16 and up who meet the criteria for gender dysphoria (have been diagnosed by a mental health professional); Have experienced puberty to at least Tanner stage 2 (this happens in natal male bodies between 9-11 years old and natal female bodies between 10-11.5 years old); Does not suffer from other psychological diagnoses that interfere with diagnostic treatment (this is vague but from my experience both working in psych and having been part of the gender-related therapy, it likely means something like Dissociative Identity Disorder where the individual does not have a central connection to their identity and instead inhabits multiple identities – usually trauma-related. They’re unlikely to provide medical transition assistance unless they are sure the individual’s central/main identity is the one expressing the transgender identity); has adequate psychological and social support during treatment and demonstrates knowledge and understanding of expected outcomes of treatment with pubertal suppressants and hormone replacement therapy, as well as medical and social risks and benefits of transition Gender reassignment surgery (or gender affirming surgery, as trans folks often prefer to call it) will be covered if it is in line with what Medicaid already covers for transgender folks over the age of 18.

Because surgery is very rare under 18 and many doctors/surgeons don’t want the liability, the Department of Health did not write a separate section of the rule for this.

They simply note that “services, surgeries, and procedures […] including those done to change a patient’s physical appearance to more closely conform secondary sex characteristics to those of the patient’s identified gender, shall be covered if it is

demonstrated that […] is medically necessary to treat a particular patient’s gender dysphoria (SIMPLY PUT: if a doctor/primary care/therapist/surgeon can make the case, Medicaid will cover it.)

Pubertal suppressants, or hormone blockers, will be covered as part of treatment for gender dysphoria, as previously mentioned.

All decisions are to be made as part of a relationship between providers and patients. There are still a lot of steps NYS transgender minors need to take and meet in order to receive coverage for treatment but the fact that these things are being covered is HUGE! Procedures Explicitly Covered A list of surgical procedures: Mastectomy, Hysterectomy, Salpingectomy, Oophorectomy, Vaginectomy, Urethroplasty, Metoidioplasty, Phalloplasty, Scrotoplasty, Penectomy, Orchiectomy, Vaginoplasty, Labiaplasty, Clitoroplasty, Placement of testicular prosthesis and penile prosthesis, Breast augmentation (provided negligible breast growth after 24 months of HRT or HRT is medically

inadvisable), Electrolysis when required for vaginoplasty or phalloplasty.

Other procedures such as collagen injections, brow lifts, liposuction, electrolysis, voice therapy, etc. are considered “cosmetic.” HOWEVER, the rule explicitly states that if the case can be made that the surgery/service is medically necessary to treat the underlying gender dysphoria (and not to help shape someone’s hairline that they’re mildly unhappy with, for example) they will consider coverage. So not everything is off the table!

One More Thing…

This rule also took a big step in including SOCIAL WORKERS on the list of approved licensed NYS health professionals who can provide a letter of recommendation for surgical treatment. Prior to this rule transgender folks had to obtain a letter from a psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse practitioner, or psychologist. This made seeking surgery much more difficult, as social workers are doing the bulk of transgender-related mental health care and are often more affordable and abundant in numbers. This is a huge victory! ■

New study finds HIV is older than the dinosaurs

made of RNA, which then converts into DNA, thus becoming part of a host’s genome. As a result, they can be tracked through historic fossil records.

Researchers took genomic fossils found in various hosts, including rayfinned fish and amphibians they’d not discovered before. But the key conflict in researching such evolutionary history was diverting past the virus’s rapid evolution, which is always tricky.

According to Nature, the researchers used “new mathematical techniques to calculate the age of an ancient line of retroviruses called foamy viruses, which infect species ranging from lemurs to fish, the researchers worked out that retroviruses first evolved between 460 million and 550 million years ago.” “[Retroviruses] date back to the origins of vertebrates,” Dr. Katzourakis added, “and this gives us the context in which we should consider their present-day activity and interactions with their hosts. For example, we need to consider the adaptations that vertebrates have developed to combat viruses, and the corresponding viral countermeasures, as the product of a continuous arms race that stretches back hundreds of millions of years.”

Ironically, it was also discovered by researchers that retroviruses played an important role for our bodies to adapt immunity from other viruses. So despite the fact that they gave us fatal kinds of diseases, they also built our bodies’ mainframes to combat other kinds of sicknesses — a catch 22. Previous studies have found that eight percent of the human genome consists of retroviral elements, although many of them are now inert.

-Read more on The Advocate ■

David Artavia posts on The Advocate: HIV is apparently even older than scientists thought. Previous research had suggested retroviruses, the family of viruses that include HIV, were around 60 to 100 million years old, and may have even coexisted with dinosaurs.

New research from Oxford University now shows they are much, much older; 450 million years or older, predating dinosaurs and even land itself. (Retroviruses really deserve an “older than the hills” designation, as they emerged from earth’s early oceans.)

In the new analysis, published in Nature Communications, Dr. Aris Katzourakis from Oxford University’s Department of Zoology argues retroviruses “have originated together with, if not before, their vertebrate hosts in the early Paleozoic era.” In a statement, he added, “Furthermore, they would have been present in our vertebrate ancestors prior to the colonization of land and have accompanied their hosts throughout this transition from sea to land, all the way up until the present day.”

Little had been known about the ancient origin of retroviruses because there are virtually no fossil records to study. They are microscopic and often bloodborne, neither of which tended to draw our attention, even if they did fossilize. In the past, fossil hunters tended to look for bones. Big bones.

In case you didn’t know, HIV is part of a family of viruses called retroviruses, which also include various kinds of cancers and immunodeficiencies. The reason for the “retro” is because they are

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

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LGBTQ Living Todd L. Perkins. Photo: Susan Jordan

Sprucing up your house for spring

By Susan Jordan Todd Perkins runs his own interior design business, Todd L. Perkins Design. He recently finished re-designing the Brick Oven Companie restaurant in Fairport, and then was off to Florida to do a house for a client there.

Todd shares his ideas for a spring re-design of one or more rooms, for those who want to bring a fresh look to their surroundings after winter.

“If you’re looking for new furniture for one room,” he said, “you start with the basics: grays are very in right now, as is dark plum. The taupes will never go away because they’re neutral and go with anything.

“You take colors from the couch. If it’s grey or taupe, anything will go with that – late ‘70s/early’80s grassy green is coming back now. If you want

to re-upholster your couch and want new fabrics, geometric prints are in. Grey or silvery is very attractive too, and anything monochrome is very in. Nude/ dull orange/brown are good combinations.”

If you are thinking of buying a new couch, Todd said, “The Brady Bunch style is back too – that is, small couches with low backs and with the same color combinations. Area rugs? Rainbow colors are in and will add color to your taupe/grey color scheme.”

Todd feels that veneer wide plank flooring gives much greater variety than the average hardwood floor. He added, “Bigger glass or porcelain tiles are more acceptable and durable than ceramic tiles, for kitchens and bathrooms. And quartz counter tops are REALLY in.”

Any room can benefit from drapery panels, Todd said. He added, “Lighting is important – I’d recommend hammered metal, pewter or bronze lamps and fixtures, like sconces on either side of a fireplace.” ■

Successful LGBTQ Education A perfect workshop for counselors, teachers, student leaders, Dignity Act Coordinators, and social workers! Become more confident and articulate while talking with others about LGBTQ issues. We will focus on your personal story as a tool for education, responding to questions mindfully and tips for respectful communication. A great experience for someone new to LGBTQ issues, or someone who has lived or worked with the issues for years. No matter your identity (transgender, lesbian, gay, straight, bi, cisgender, etc.) this class will be of value to you. Think of it as professional development for your life!

Note: The prerequisite for this course is the SafeZone Training. If you have not yet taken this training either at the LGBTQ Academy or at your school or workplace, please register for one of our two SafeZone Trainings above. If you have taken the SafeZone Training at the LGBTQ Academy, you will receive a 50% discount on the SpeakOUT Training. Taking this training is the second step towards becoming an LGBTQ Academy Speakers Bureau Member.

Date and Time: Saturday, April 1 from 9am to 5:00pm (Doors open at 8:30am) Location: The LGBTQ Academy’s Education Center (100 College Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607) There is free parking in the lot next to our building.

Registration Fee: $100 (which includes a SpeakOUT manual, breakfast and lunch)/$50 for participants who have taken the 4-hour SafeZone Training at the LGBTQ Academy.

Contact: education@gayalliance.org to register.

What participants from our November 2016 SpeakOUT Training had to say: “Everything and more than I’d hoped. The trainers were the best – crammed a ton of information into presentations, participation and different activities – educational FUN. Just thanks.”

“Very informative, dynamic presenter, well structured, well organized, easily comprehended – WELL DONE!! Thank you for your knowledge, your stories and your compassion.”

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

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FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

SafeZone Training Description of Program: The LGBTQ Academy SafeZone Training is a 4-hour, dynamic, interactive workshop that includes activities and discussion regarding: LGBTQ inclusive and respectful language, the process of coming out, understanding sex, gender and sexuality, taking action, respectful communication in the face of resistance, where to go for help and much more. This session will give participants the skills they need to provide support and to create environments that are safe and inclusive so that all people are empowered to reach their full potential.

Note: Taking this training is the first step towards becoming an LGBTQ Academy Speakers Bureau Member.

Two SafeZone Trainings Are Being Offered Thursday March 9, from 9am-1pm (check in at 8:45am) and Monday March 27, from 5-9pm (check in at 4:45pm) Location: The LGBTQ Academy’s Education Center (100 College Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607).

There is free parking in the lot next to our building.

Registration: Go to www.gayalliance.org, click on the SafeZone slide. Registration fee is $75 (which includes a SafeZone Manual, SafeZone sticker, SafeZone lapel pin and breakfast or dinner)

CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT Reiki Healing * Meditation | Laws of Attraction | Mind, Body, Spirit Balance | Setting Intentions

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Feedback from our SafeZone Training Program (November 2016) “This was fantastic. We want to offer this training again.”

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“Tips and ideas – everything was very useful. Practical scenarios and time to work through as well as discuss other group’s ideas. Great job! Thanks for your honesty and willingness to help us grow!”

“It’s wonderful. You are saving lives!”

100% of the participants from this presentation rated this workshop and our trainers “excellent.”

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

Shoulders to Stand On

The Long Road To Wellness (continued)

By Evelyn Bailey The Road To Wellness has many twists and turns. For every two steps forward there seems to be one step back.

Such is the history of many movements, progress and our own growth and development. Much is learned from our failures as well as our successes. In this month’s History of AIDS – The Road to Wellness, I want to look at the year 1988 in three areas related to creating a healthy Rochester community: Rochester’s response to AIDS; drug users and the rise of AIDS in the heterosexual community.

First in 1988 Monroe County school districts implement an AIDS curriculum. In 1988 the curriculum would have informed students and parents about AIDS, how to prevent it – sexually and through drug use. Information on treatment would have been limited to AZT, and a few other potentially effective drugs.

Today Monroe County School Districts must follow the New York Sexuality Education Law and Policy, which states: Health education is required for all students in kindergarten through twelfth grade in New York. This instruction must provide information about HIV/AIDS. Health education is taught by classroom teachers in kindergarten through sixth grade; in seventh through twelfth grades, HIV/AIDS instruction must be taught by teachers who have been given appropriate training and curriculum materials by the board of education or trustees.

All HIV/AIDS education must “provide accurate information to pupils concerning the nature of the disease, methods of transmission, and methods of preven-

tion.” This instruction must be age-appropriate and consistent with community values and “shall stress abstinence as the most appropriate and effective premarital protection against AIDS.” Each local school board must establish an advisory council to make recommendations on HIV/AIDS instruction.

The state does not require or suggest a specific curriculum, but does provide a curriculum framework, the Learning Standards for Health, Physical Education, and Family and Consumer Sciences. The framework does not specifically mention sexuality education though certain topics within sexuality education are included, such as “understanding of the changes that accompany puberty.”

Parents may exempt their children from HIV/AIDS classes as long as the school is given “assurance that the pupil will receive such instruction at home.”

This is referred to as an “opt-out” policy.

To assist implementation of the AIDS curriculum in 1988, Monroe County funded three community based organizations and AIDS Resource Library to provide prevention education. As a result Action for a Better Community, Baden Street Settlement and the Puerto Rican Youth Development and Resource Center began developing comprehensive services.

Second in February, 1988 Jesse Watkins, chairman of President Reagan’s AIDS Commision, recommended a 10 year, $15 billion expansion of rehabilitative treatment for IV drug abuse, including estahlishment of 3,300 new drug abuse clinics and hiring 32,000 specialists to staff them in an effort to help control the spread of AIDS. At that time there was a growing scientific consensus that IV drug users were the main source of new AIDS infections. Drug addicts accounted for 53% of all deaths due to AIDS in New York City from 1978 to 1986 according to an article published in the journal, Science, Feb. 12, 1988. In New York City, new AIDS cases that result from shared needles exceed those attributable to sexual contact, and in November, 1988 the city’s Health Department begins an experimental needle exchange program. Rochester would wait until AIDS Rochester began a needle exchange program in 1994.

People who inject drugs (also known as PWID) are among the group most vulnerable to HIV infection. HIV prevalence among people who inject drugs is 28 times higher than among the rest of the population. Drug use now accounts for an ever growing proportion of those living with HIV. On average one in ten new HIV infections are caused by the sharing of needles. Moreover, almost one third of global HIV infections outside of sub-Saharan Africa are caused by inject-

Learn the history of the LGBT community in Rochester from the people who made that history.

ing drugs.

Third in March, 1988 according to a study by sex therapists Dr. William H. Masters, Virginia E. Johnson, and collaborator Dr. Robert C. Kolody, “The AIDS virus is now running rampant in the heterosexual community.” Their findings, reported in the book Crisis: Heterosexual Behavior in the Age of AIDS, were met with criticism from other AIDS researchers and public health officials.

In April, a report in the Journal of the American Medical Association states that the risk of exposure to AIDS through heterosexual intercourse is low. The degree of risk, according to the study, is determined by whether one’s sexual partner is from a high risk group (bisexual males, prostitutes or IV drug abusers), whether condoms are used, and abstinence from high-risk sexual behaviors.

According to the CDC in September, 2016 around one in four people living with HIV in the United States are women, and most new HIV diagnoses in women are attributed to heterosexual sex. Women made up 19% (8,328) of the estimated 44,073 new HIV diagnoses in the United States in 2014. Of these, 87% (7,242) were attributed to heterosexual sex,e and 13% (1,045) were attributed to injection drug use. Among all women diagnosed with HIV in 2014, an estimated 62% (5,128) were African American, 18% (1,483) were white, and 16% (1,350) were Hispanic/Latina. Women accounted for 25% (5,168) of the estimated 20,792 AIDS diagnoses among adults and adolescents in 2014 and represent 20% (246,372) of the estimated 1,210,835 cumulative AIDS diagnoses in the United States from the beginning of the epidemic through the end of 2014.

Of the total estimated number of women living with diagnosed HIV at the end of 2013, 61% (137,504) were African American, 17% (39,177) were white, and 17% (38,664) were Hispanics/Latinas.

Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men made up an estimated 2% of the population but 55% of people living with HIV in the United States in 2013. The CDC also reported that in 2014 gay and bisexual men accounted for 83% (29,418) of the estimated new HIV diagnoses among all males aged 13 and older and 67% of the total estimated new diagnoses in the United States; gay and bisexual men aged 13 to 24 accounted for an estimated 92% of new HIV diagnoses among all men in their age group and 27% of new diagnoses among all gay and bisexual men; gay and bisexual men accounted for an estimated 54% (11,277) of people diagnosed with AIDS and of those men, 39% were African American, 32% were white, and 24% were Hispanic/

The Gay Alliance invites you to celebrate 40 years of LGBT history in Rochester with your very own DVD/BluRay of this powerful film.

Shoulders To Stand On Evelyn Bailey, Executive Producer Kevin Indovino, Producer/Director/Writer

Standard DVD $25 / BluRay DVD $30 Order at: www.GayAlliance.org

21 Latino.

We will continue to document the Rochester community’s response to AIDS. Even though today’s treatments are much more effective than in the past, we have a long way to go in changing at risk behaviors that increase the number of those diagnosed with AIDS. Shoulders To Stand On recognizes the energy and work required to make change happen, and is proud of the Rochester community and its continued response to the AIDS epidemic.

History Corner The Empty Closet, A Monthly Newspaper of The Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley, 713 Monroe Avenue, Room 4, Rochester, NY 14607 (716) 244-8640 February 1975 Number 47 GAY BROTHERHOOD QF ROCHESTER MEEETING SCHEDULE SUN. 2 Feb. Gay Male Sex Techniques: A sensitive discussion on the art of gay lovemaking.

SUN. 9 Feb.: Coffee House SUN. 16 Feb: Transexualism TUES 18 Feb: Coordinating Council _ SUN 23 Feb: Business Meeting OTHER EVENTS OF INTEREST THIS MONTH...

7 Feb. (Thurs): V.D. Health Chlck.

AM-PM Club 8-lOpni 9 Feb. (Sun): Mardi Gras Party. Jim’s 9 pn 14 Feb (Fri): Masquerade Ball. Forum 14 Feb (Fri): Follies Review. War Memorial. 8 pm 15 Feb (Sat): Miss Cosmos Contest.

War Memorial 8 pm 16 Feb (Sun): Sweetheart Ball. Jim’s’ 23 Feb (Sun): Best Stars Of ‘74 Awards. Rathskeller 28 Feb (Fri): “A Very Natural Thing” Gay Film. RIT Talisman Film Festival, College Union, 7:30 & 10:00 pm Do you want to read this issue of the Empty Closet?

Here is Link: http://www.library.rochester.edu/rbscp/EmptyCloset On that page click on: Browse the Empty Closet issues Go to 1975 – February

10 Rochester LGBT Heroes

By Evelyn Bailey Shoulders To stand On honors the ten 2016 Rochester Shoulders Heroes for their contributions to our struggle for equality, justice and health for the Greater Rochester community inclusive of our LGBT brothers and sisters and our allies.

First Shoulders To Stand On recognizes and honors – YOU! Your Shoulders carry the Rochester community to greater awareness, integrity, visibility and pride! Because of YOU, our LGBT brothers, sisters, and allies, the Closet is not as full! So take a moment to look at yourself and be PROUD! Empire State Pride Agenda - In December of 2015, The Empire State Pride Agenda (ESPA), New York’s statewide LGBT civil rights organization, decided to conclude major operations.

The Pride Agenda committed itself to maintaining its Political Action Committee (PAC) to play a continuing role in electoral politics. Over the past 25 years, ESPA’s advocacy and service to New York’s LGBT community resulted in over 100 state legislative and policy victories.

Shoulders To Stand On echoes Governor Andrew Cuomo’s remarks on learning of ESPA’s decision. He said, “Over the years this organization has made a difference in – and no doubt saved – countless lives. Together we have restored New York’s status as a progressive beacon for the nation, from securing marriage equality to helping ban transgender discrimination and bringing the end of the AIDS epidemic within reach.… Its impact will be felt for generations to come.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo - Shoul(10 Heroes continues on page 24)

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

Columnists The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet.

Growing Up THE MAN THAT GOT AWAY

By Eric Bellmann I suppose I could have written “men”. There were a few. Most were not about to stop; they were in transit. Others I shooed along. One or two I think about now that make me reflect on my questionable choices.

The cold of winter seems a likely time to whine that “no one ever loved me”. It’s a sham pose, self-serving, only voiced to elicit sympathy. I could add, of course, that does anyone really know another person? All of them, to the last, had no idea who I was. Nor did they care. It was like a game of billiards, hard objects colliding, deflecting, rolling away. Could one avoid this tedious introspection by spending a couple of months in Florida?

The one I memorialize in my heart is Jack, with whom I spent a glorious holiday in Provincetown a hundred years ago when the earth was green and I was twenty-two. He was everything I ever dreamed of. Tall and rugged and blond and very into me. It’s possible he was also a few things I did not dream of: most likely partnered (my eventual best guess) and living miles away in Boston.

Our time together was delightful: hand holding, warm smiles, a perfect P-town romance.

I was naïve, trusting and I have no regrets. The ending was abrupt, no tears, just a blank space. No reply to my letters.

How simple the world was before electronic media with its endless methods of stalking! One didn’t fuck with fate, one just moved on.

One writes for a variety of reasons.

To set the record straight. To settle scores. Writers invent themselves in print, smooth out the rough spots. Self-invention has its merits, as does deciding just to tell the truth. Eventually one just writes and sometimes readers find themselves in the stories, identify with hopes and fears and that becomes the ultimate reason for keeping at it. I have been validated a few times. At a fundraising gathering years ago a man introduced himself (my heart fluttered) and said reading me as he was coming out made his life more bearable.

Did he have a clue what he accomplished with that conversation?

The man I think about now is Leo, dead many years. He courted me. I don’t know whether to laugh or hang my head in shame. I was so oblivious. He brought me flowers and on my birthday an immense, gorgeously decorated cake, which I ate alone. I made him take me to the movies, which he hated. Twenty minutes in, he left to sit in a bar next door, waiting for me to exit the theater and find him. What a doll.

He was midwestern, from farming stock. He was a psychologist. He drank.

He tried to get me drunk all the time. But he never made the move. He waited. He had a mean streak. He baited me, taunted me over whatever beliefs or convictions I babbled on about. It was how he paid attention and it made me wary, defensive.

I felt trapped and I finally just wanted to escape.

So I blew him off. But, bottom line, he was in love with me. I’ve been oblivious in many ways for great stretches of my life.

I didn’t really grasp the degree to which

people loathed queers. That probably was a good thing. On the other hand, I didn’t fully appreciate Leo’s interest. In the dark of winter that seems a mistake.

The worst happened during a phone call. I had loosened up and was going to gay bars and had tricked with a wiry guy that I found thrilling. That lad had no interest in me and made it clear. So when Leo phoned and asked how I was, I told him I was lovesick over this cad.

How insensitive! Must have broken Leo’s heart. That was pretty much the end of our affair.

By weird circumstance Leo lived a block away from a close friend. She spied on him doing yard work. He liked to garden. Those mid-western roots. He used his snow blower to clean her driveway. He was that kind of good neighbor. Then a few years back she told me his house had been sold and he was living “under supervision”. His mind had stopped working.

That’s how that story ends.

Ah, could I go back and change history? Should I have settled for Leo and had 30 good years? When the going is good and one is young, one always thinks, well, the next one will be better. I’ll get what I deserve. Indeed.

Email: EricLBellmann@gmail.com

Cleaning My Closet FLAKILY

By Meredith Elizabeth Reiniger Today is yet another climatechange-verification winter: It’s so cold my underpants are iced. (Hum.) Humming.

Hummed. Here’s the thing. I hum. I self-medicate with hums.

I hum, arrhythmically, when I am worried or stressed. When I am challenged. When I have to negotiate tricky actions. Like driving, parking, and merging into HEY! IT’S-MY-TURN expressway-spaces. Multi-hums. Like, when a doctor, having discovered a lurker, uses her freeze-gun, blast-away system. Will it hurt, I ask. “Yes.” HUM. Here’s the back story. Not fluent in medical terminology, I can only remember that, January 2016, a dermatologist removed a pre-cancerous leprechaun residing on my outer nose-skin.

January 2017, I returned to Dr. H’s office. The insertion nurse, leading me into an examination room, updated my charts and then told me to remove everything except my (little did she know, festive) underpants. Initiating quiet hummode, I explained that the doctor was checking my NOSE. Disrobing seemed extreme.

Nurse, pleasantly, explained that a one-year-later appointment was the same as a Yearly Physical. Aha, my interior light bulb noted: I had adopted another My Doctor.

After that, draped in an embarrassingly ugly gown, I ... hummed ... turning slowly while My (of-course-young) New Doctor catalogued my surface alterations: purple protuberances, red Rorschachs, bluish bumps, and variegated volcanoettes. No new lurkers.

Scheduled for another year’s look-see, I darted to my car, gripped the wheel, and hummed my way back home, across the snowy Irondequoit Bay Bridge.

Finally, at the end of that hum-loaded,

snow-season day, my night thermostat set at 60, I headed to bed. I said prayers to my gentle Great Goddess, thanking her for my elder-kindness gift: electricity in blankets. I selected #8 for pre-warm, then lowered it to #6 for my nocturnal eventoasting.

After my late night date with Trevor, Steven, and Seth (my favorite late-night pundits), I fell into dream-filled sleep.

All snug in my bed. Until my old, unruly Bladder demanded a scurry to the porcelain. Again. And again. Again?

Next day. I need no alarm clock. My eyes fly open because I hear pudgy, reddog’s stomach moaning. I and my spectacles head downstairs to the up-arrow on my faithful furnace’s do-hickey (as my mother would say when standard words had escaped).

This day, as I write my 2017 Epistle from Elder’s Edge, the outdoor temperature, announces Alexa, is a single digit.

My father (born 1913) would have opined: “It’s colder than a witch’s tit.”

I have, personally, no experience with a witch’s cold, or otherwise, tit. (I might note it on my to-do-list or my bucket list.)

I suspect that Vegas-dog might mumble a metaphor about his low-slung penis dragging through arctic-cold snow.

9 degrees? Such a statistic is barely a half-truth. I understand the discrepancy.

Alexa has no skin, so what does she care about penetration factors?

The information that I need would be a Body-Preparedness Alert. We sturdy Upstate New Yorkers are familiar with ‘wind chill’ and, around these parts, we are well acquainted with its companion ‘Lake Effect.’

But, rest assured, today’s wind chill of minus-five is not . . . no never was . . . a ‘chill.’

Ta-da! Progress: my Amazon Fire now has a weather site that acknowledges reality (an old-fashioned notion). Fire understands the importance of a flesh-effect number and named it RealFeel©.

Thus informed, I prepare to venture out the door and into my frosty-freezingfrigid north-of-the-104-corridor town.

The mile and a half trail beckons. It is important and pleasant to engage my age-challenged muscles and to air-out my short but long little doggie.

I fashion my Elder-Care Snow-Wear.

Layers: leggings; knee-high, thick socks; baggy (not crotch invading) wool slacks; cuddly undershirt; long-sleeved overshirt; a turtle-neck to envelop my turkey-wattlenecks; a hulking-heavy (men’s XXL so the sleeves pass my wrists) sweater; soft neckring; wrap-aroundable scarf.

I heave-ho my heavy coat (HEAVY means an actual 5 pounds of wool) out of the closet. I stuff my thoroughly-bundled self inside my old coat (designed-for-men, so it is roomy) (plus it has interior pockets to hold a handful of snot-catchers and a stash of repurposed, blueberry English muffin bags for [dog] poop pick-up.)

Thus swathed, I drop my weatherized self onto a chair. I lift-up my floor-length coat to pull on my massive but fashionable boots. (Wait. What’s that? I re-hear my words . . . floor-length!? Now there’s a silly, gender specific measure; I think only girly-girl gowns can claim that label.

More correctly stated: my coat simply unceremoniously drags on the ground.)

Securely buttoned and booted, I roll my kindergarten-snow-suited-puff-ball self upright.

Still not finished: I don my Elmer Fudd, ear-flapped hat. OMG I don’t know the wind speed, forgot to look for realblow. Nevermind. Shrewdly I look at the trees … bent and bouncing? Yep, I need my fierce face-mask.

Nearly ready. Pre-gloving, I have to wrap my hot-dog dog (‘Hot-dog dog’ was the adorable kids’ translation of grownups ‘wiener dog’, both easier to spell and say than ‘dachshund’.) First his new teal (so he matches my dining room ceiling) harness. Next his red sweater, zipper running down his long-long back (designed and constructed by his Aunt Sparkle B).

Last item, his Sherpa overcoat.

Ready: attach leash. Set: Shove on my

gloves. Go: hand on door knob … Oh no, I feel a thing.

A sharp-bark memo from my dog: “I told you to go potty before fortification.”

Well, excuse me, whines my elder-brain. I forgot. Hum. MeredithReiniger@gmail.com

Faith Matters KIM BURRELL REMINDS US HOW THE BLACK CHURCH USES, ABUSES GAY CHRISTIANS

By Rev. Irene Monroe Gospel music undeniably has a queerness at its roots that has not only shaped the genre but it has continued to give gospel music its

enduring vibrancy.

One of black gospel’s darlings and Pentecostal preacher Kim Burrell was ousted from The Ellen DeGeneres Show, sending shock waves throughout the African American community.

Burrell, along with Pharrell Williams, was invited to promote their duet “I See Victory” from the soundtrack of the film “Hidden Figures”.

However, Burrell’s homophobic homily about the “perverted homosexual spirit” has created a tsunami of tweets and comments on social media publicly denouncing her vitriol, by a younger generation of African American entertainers -- both LGBTQ and straight -- not seen in previous years.

Rhythm & Soul Music awardee Janelle Monáe who stars in the film and R&B and Hip-Hop songwriter Frank Ocean, who both are openly queer, have had visceral reactions to Burrell’s rant.

Ocean’s mother wants Burrell removed from her son’s 2016 album “Blonde” and Monáe took her comments to Instagram.

“I unequivocally repudiate ANY AND ALL hateful comments against the LGBTQ community… We cannot sit Idly by nor will we speak silently when we are confronted with such violence against members of our community.”

What has always made me shake my head in utter disgust is not only how most African American gospel church choirs of any note have LGBTQ singers, but how they also actively seek us out as ministers of music.

“The virtuosity of gay singers, musicians and composers has been the driving force in developing popular gospel choirs — even chart-topping, Grammy-winning acts — that make money for a church, help expand congregations and raise the profiles of pastors,” NPR reported in its 2012 segment titled “Blacks, Gays and The Church: A Complex Relationship.”

Gospel music undeniably has a queerness at its roots that has not only shaped the genre but it has continued to give gospel music its enduring vibrancy.

One of the black church denominations’ largest influences in the musical genre is the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) that Burrell belongs to.

COGIC is the largest African American and largest Pentecostal church in the United States. And as the largest denominational black church in the country it is also the loudest in rebuking homosexuality.

With many of the gospel music industry mega-stars from COGIC, the church’s charismatic worship style shouts to a black gay male queer gospel aesthetic every Sunday. And the church is conflicted with itself.

For example, Pastor Donnie McClurkin, an uber-star in the stratosphere of black gospel music, also belongs to COGIC and struggles mightily with his sexual orientation.

“God did not call you to such perversions. Your only hope is Jesus Christ. Were it not for this Jesus I would be a homo-

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET sexual today. This God is a deliverer,” McClurkin exhorted with fire and brimstone at the Church of God in Christ’s (COGIC) 102nd Holy Convocation International Youth Department Worship Service in November 2009.

In 2010, McClurkin was dis-invited from Boston’s annual Gospelfest, a public and taxpayer-funded community event, that’s open to all—even the African American LGBTQ communities. But this wasn’t the first time McClurkin, the poster boy for African American “ex-gay” ministries, had to confront his closeted past and homophobic presence.

In Burrell’s unapologetic rejoinder defending her sermon about the LGBTQ community she stated, “I love you and God loves you but God hates the sin in you and me.”

Burrell’s theological qualifier of “love the sinner but hate the sin” is commonly heard in our churches. This message is deleterious to the LGBTQ worshipping community on so many levels: It pimps our talent yet damns our souls.

Our connections and contributions to the larger black religious cosmos are desecrated every time homophobic pronouncements, like Burrell’s, go unchecked in these holy places of worship.

The Black Church becomes an institution on the “down low.”

Our silence, shame, and stigma around issues of identity, sexual practices, and the lack of pastoral care to people deemed “outsiders” are factors contributing not only to high-risk sexual behaviors and the transmission of HIV/AIDS, but also to the silent killer of suicide and homelessness in my community.

Gay males, in particular, continue to find ways of being supported in the COGIC. For example, “blaquebigayministers” is a Yahoo gay ministers group, boasting 787 members since July 2000 and was founded by COGIC Elder Ronald Kimbrew.

The “blaquebigayministers” website states the following: “WELCOME. This fellowship is for support and encouragement especially of black Christian ministers and friends who are ‘family’ (bi or same-gender loving) and need a place of refuge. Enjoy the ‘fellowship.’”

A reporter following the 2009 Convocation asked, “Is COGIC going to be silent while an organized culture of homosexual ministers and bishops populate its pulpits?”

My answer is yes.

COGIC cannot deny that the church get its Jesus dance on and Amen shouts to a black gay male queer gospel aesthetic every Sunday and no one knows it better than Burrell herself.

COGIC was formed in 1897 by a group of dis-fellowshipped Baptists. I wonder if the guys were dis-fellowshipped because they were gay?

If so, their music lives on, nonetheless.

Sources: Gospel singer Kim Burrell calls homosexuality ‘perverted,’ Pharrell Williams and stars from ‘Hidden Figures’ condemn ‘hateful comments’ - LA Times http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/la-et-ms-kim-burrell-homosexuality-perverted-20170102-htmlstory. html Frank Ocean’s Mother Wants GayBashing Kim Burrell Off Her Son’s Album http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ frank-oceans-mother-wants-gay-bashing-kim-burrell-off-her-sons-albumnews.26963.html?

Janelle Monáe on Instagram: “I shouldn’t even have to post this https://www.instagram.com/p/ BOtFCavgE7B/?hl=en Blacks, Gays And The Church: A Complex Relationship : NPR http://www.npr. org/2012/05/22/153282066/blacks-gaysand-the-church-a-complex-relationship Donnie McClurkin vs Tonéx: Round ONE | The Black Youth Project

https://blackyouthproject.com/donnie-mcclurkin-vs-tonex-round-one/ Ex-Gay’ Donnie McClurkin At Boston’s Gospelfest | The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ irene-monroe/ex-gay-donnie-mcclurkina_b_647188.html Ellen DeGeneres, Pharrell address Kim Burrell homophobic remarks http://ew.com/tv/2017/01/05/ellendegeneres-pharrell-address-kim-burrellhomophobic-remarks/ blaquebigayministers – Gay Christian Movement Watch https://gcmwatch.wordpress.com/tag/ blaquebigayministers/

What’s Bothering Brandon?

SATIRICAL CALMNESS IN WAYNE COUNTY

By Brandon W. Brooks Last month I went to visit my parents in the eastern countryside. I periodically checkup on my mother and father, being the good son that I am. Also, there are free laundry and food services offered. I’m going to hell.

During one of these visits, my mother and I took up again the mantle of political opposition, culminating in yet another very verbal and very charged argument.

We calmly discussed the credibility of modern news, the source of news information, what form(s) of news is to be consumed, and what form(s) of news is to be avoided.

My mother and I have redefined what “calmly” means – “calmly” is anything that does not result in physical violence, or when anger is restrained enough to avoid physical violence. All furniture items, walls, and vases are spared when my mother and I speak “calmly” to one another, something over which we both carry pride.

It all started when my mother, who is new to social media, discovered The Onion Newspaper. Being a baby of the ‘80s, and a subsequent child of the ‘90s, I grew up under the increasing awareness of internet news, the spread of information online, memes and gifs, the controversy and hilarity that is 4chan, and now Reddit. The idea that information is skewed immensely based upon who is presenting it, where it is coming from, and to what end it is being utilized has always seemed common-knowledge to me, and largely, my generation as a whole.

What’s more – political satire sites that specialize in presenting information in a deliberately and comically skewed way in order to accomplish skeptical and analytical thought is obvious, and rather, old hat to me, and I dare say most people today.

Not so, my mother.

With CNN, NBC, ABC and now even FOX News under fire from The Overlord as “spreading fake news”, my mother had a heyday. She felt, again “calmly”, that The Onion was heinous, needed to be eliminated, and was purposefully misleading the American public with their “liberal, left-wing accusations.”

I attempted to explain that any person in their right mind would, and should, find it obvious that The Onion was satirical, and was not meant to be taken seriously.

I also attempted to explain that their use of satire is employed to inspire analytical thought and possibly a new perspective to the reader. My mother was having none of it, and simply could not believe or fathom that not only were there multiple publications in existence that actively presented information in purposefully satirical ways, but that people out there understood that these publications were satirical, and not actually true.

I was completely speechless at this point. How could someone NOT be aware of political satire, the obvious nature of it, and how it can be a useful

23 and comic means of shedding light on immense turmoil and grief? For hundreds of years political satire has been employed by newspapers and comics to vent frustrations, point out inanities, and expose hypocrisy. Surely, my mother must be aware of this.

Was she upset because The Onion presented the ridiculousness of the political party in which she believes so successfully, or was my mother angry due to feeling that she had been had by The Onion? I have certainly read halfway through an Onion article myself only to realize that it was, in fact, an article of the Allium genus. But to read an entire article, with its laughable tenor and seemingly ostensible use of comedy, only to believe that it is true – that is concerning for my parents’ generation.

But I don’t believe it’s something about “my parents’ generation” as much as I believe it is about the want for failure in your opponent. I firmly believe that if we identify with a certain group of people and their values (in this case a certain political camp), and there is another group of people whose values oppose those of your own group, our own values and beliefs tend to increase in strength as a means of fending off the perceived or real opposition.

In other words, when we or our beliefs are threatened, our reaction is to become ever entrenched further in an identity that supports our beliefs, even when logic and experience tell us otherwise. We want the other side to fail.

A large part of me feels as though my mother truly is aware that The Onion is satirical and ostensibly so, and that it was only how successfully and comically The Onion presented the dangers of the alt-right that upset my mother. Being the mother that she is, I know she is not as socially Republican as she presents herself – I know it is a defense.

It is a defense against a changing tide – the values of her generation (or rather, her parents’ generation) are dying and falling away. Information is no longer something that we can always trust, and that scares my mother. She was raised on the foundation of good old trustworthy news that everyone believed in, trusted, and “just knew” was true. We were raised on the shifting sands of the internet, highspeed information exchange, and trolling.

I understand her fear, I just don’t share it.

Questions, comment, or critique? Feel free to e-mail the author at: brandonbrooks@mail.adelphi.edu ■

Safer Computing INFORMATION SECURITY IS BORING

By David Frier You read that right. My day job, Information Security for a large corporation, is actually kind of humdrum, when I am doing it right.

Now, if you watch any of those dramatic TV shows where they throw around the prefix “cyber-” too much, you might think we InfoSec dudes are like digital special forces. Slickly dressed geniuses (plus one plump bearded guy and/or a gothy teen prodigy), defending the Father/Mother/ Homeland against all manner of Evil Empire enemies, terrorists and supervillains. Working coolly under a giant red LED clock counting down to this week’s digital Armageddon, brought to you by Travelocity. Always finishing some brilliant countermeasure as the doomsday display freezes on 00:00:03.

Nope, nope, nope! That is not my cup of tea. Ideally, my job looks deadly dull.

We check regularly for new threats and vulnerabilities. If we find anything new, we apply the best mitigations available.

When all goes well, we have, if nothing else, made our targets difficult enough that the criminals just move along to easier pickings elsewhere.

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

(Columnists continued from page 23) Let’s recap a few ways I hope your digital life is a real snooze, too. If you’re following some of the advice I have dished out in this space, then... well, I’m sorry, but you’re going to have to look elsewhere for your adrenaline rush.

BACKUP (May ‘16) If your hard disk starts making a clanking sound, or there’s a faint smell of ozone as your laptop screen goes blank, you know that there are backups safely stowed somewhere off that box. And, that they were updated within the last week. While having to replace a $1600 computer is a burden, having to replace years of work or photos and journals is far worse.

EMAIL (June ‘16) Seems like a week doesn’t go by anymore without news of a major data breach or a new rash of ransomware infecting folks. What few of these breathless stories on TV news mention is, the absolute most common way these attacks gained entry to the victims’ systems. The majority of times, someone clicked on a nasty link or opened a malicious attachment that arrived via email.

But not you! Now you know how to sniff those out and avoid them.

PASSWORDS (August ‘16) Those data breaches keep happening and it doesn’t have to be your fault for an attacker to get your data from the victim company, does it? You have surely gotten a letter or three in the past few years: Excellus, Target, Anthem, Home Depot…. You are always at the greatest risk from these companies’ losses if your password discipline is lax. If you use simple passwords based on personal information (easy to remember!) and you reuse the passwords in most places (even easier). But you know that the easiest solution of all to this dilemma is to use a password manager that gives you a unique and strong password for each different site, plus it remembers them so you don’t have to. (Not that you could.) And everywhere it’s offered, you use two-factor authentication so that even if a password gets stolen, they still cannot get into your account. In fact, the second most-used app on your phone is Google Authenticator. I know it is on mine, after Signal (Dec. ‘16).

Anyway, don’t feel bad for me at work.

There’s plenty of excitement in what I do.

I am learning new things all the time, and working with a business to make sure that risks taken are worth the possible rewards to be gained. This is much easier on the old blood pressure than sweating out a coding session under a doomsday counter.

Please continue send your digital safety questions to questions@safer-computing.com and I will try to answer at least one every month. If you want an answer in private, I can do that as well.

Recommended further reading: https://is.gd/Trump_NSA_SD and also https://eff.org

Health and Wellness DON’T LET WINTER LEAVE YOU OUT IN THE COLD: TIPS FOR STAYING HEALTHY DURING FLU SEASON

By Elizabeth Zicari, RN, BSN, CENP, President of HCR Home Care If you got the flu shot, good for you! However, the flu shot alone won’t guard against the

plethora of viruses lurking on every door handle and surface you touch. Protecting yourself from germs that can make you sick will help you enjoy the winter season to the fullest. Remember these healthfocused tips all winter long to improve your shot at staying well, and protecting others from illness you might acquire.

Carry hand sanitizer and use it often.

While frequent hand-washing is ideal, it’s not always practical. Use hand sanitizer after touching doors, railings, restaurant tables and other surfaces outside your home. Research at the Boston Children’s Hospital noted a 59 percent reduction in stomach flu in families who routinely used hand sanitizer, which, when used properly, can virtually eliminate all germs.

Find a new way to greet people without using your hands. Hand to hand contact is the most common way to transmit nasty germs that can make you sick.

During cold and flu season, make a “fist bump” your preferred method of contact, or better yet, greet people with the gesture of placing your hands together close to your chest, bow your head slightly and offer a warm smile. If you must shake hands, refer back to tip #1!

Wipe down surfaces you touch frequently. Whether you opt for antimicrobial wipes, a bleach solution or white vinegar, wiping your phone, desk, doorknobs and kitchen counters will keep germs from other people and objects at bay.

Get plenty of rest. Your immune system works best when you are rested.

Research at the University of Chicago found a correlation between the number of hours you sleep and the number of flufighting antibodies in your blood, after receiving a flu shot.

Manage your stress. Elevated stress hormones, left unchecked, can wreak havoc with your immunity and suppress the cellular work involved in keeping you in your best health. Manage stress through healthy outlets like regular exercise, which in itself can boost immunity.

Also, don’t keep negative emotions bottled up, but instead talk things out with a trusted friend or counselor. Maintain and acquire a healthy circle of friends by joining a group or enjoying a common activity. Treat yourself to a self-care activity, such as a relaxing full body massage.

Winter can be beautiful in Upstate New York; don’t let the ills of a cold or flu keep you from enjoying it to its fullest!

REFERENCE MacMillan, Amanda. “15 Ways To Stay Healthy This Winter.” Prevention.

Rodale Inc., November 18, 2015.

Both Sides Now OUR OWN WORST ENEMY

By Cora Treoir Duncan There was a time in this century when many born in the baby boom post-WW II era raised self righteous lamentations lambasting the younger generations’ obsession with too much screen and too little face time and their apparent disconnect from social engagement, predicting all prior grassroots efforts, potent political progress and crucial cultural change which had been accomplished over the last fifty years would fade in importance while our progeny lost their way chasing the fading American Dream.

I am here to say not only were we myopic in our assessment, but wrong and sadly our own worst enemies in the battle.

At age 65, it is getting harder to regurgitate the acute emotions I felt during the arc spanning the mid-1960s to early 1970s. As a generation we were mythologized for participation in civil rights marches, anti-war protests and attending epic cultural events like the birth of Rock & Roll and Woodstock. Yet in truth, not everyone was dancing in the streets or on board the Peace Train when it was rolling.

We faced as much conservative backlash delivered by domineering parents, regressive schools and prevailing cultural values to split our generation down the middle; its after effects remain, excruciatingly apparent this past election cycle.

The hard reality is that legions of Millennials spear-headed the progressive charge against Donald Trump, embracing Bernie Sanders’ progressive populist agenda while many Boomers hesitated to go deep and radical, choosing instead to give Hillary Clinton the nod in complacent resignation to the broken system that used to enrage us, but now disengaged us. They saw Bernie’s promise informed by our generation’s inculcation of positive liberal values on them, while we failed to see the potential tidal wave gathering offshore. Much as we had immersed ourselves in The Movement in our youth, our children felt ‘The Bern’ with a singular similar passion we should have recognized. It is hard to admit, but we had become soft and created our own nightmare.

We failed to see that we as a generation quietly slipped into a social and cultural disconnect far more destructive than the fate we predicted for those younger than us. Seduced by new technology, we lost touch with our own physical reality and spent more time online than walking the line. We showed ourselves to be even more addicted to social networking than our children. In doing so, we missed out on golden opportunities to further The Cause so many of us believed in when we were knee-deep in battle decades ago.

We have a chance now to redeem ourselves as humbled, vulnerable and experienced warriors, mentors and guides to those that follow us in the current political, social and cultural conflagration. We were schooled by giants: Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Joseph Campbell, Bob Dylan, Carl Sagan, Howard Zinn, Timothy Leary, Woody Guthrie, Malcolm X, Robert Kennedy, Bob Marley and countless others who linger only in the memories of survivors. Instead of retreating to the comfort of our digital cocoons, we need to turn off the screens, escape the home-cave and face down these demons In Real Life.

In fact, we have been given a rare second chance to resurrect our youthful passion in facing the intimidating power surge by conservative elements. Instead of bemoaning our losses, we must explore the opportunities afforded us to make a serious difference.

We have been friends to Chaos and Change throughout our lives. This upending might be our defining moment, should we have the courage to peel back the armor, drop our shields and plunge headfirst into the fray once again. Otherwise, we are in danger of self-defeat and our own worst enemy. ■

10 Heroes (10 Heroes continued from page 21) ders To Stand On is proud to recognize the Governor as a 2016 Hero for his courageous action in signing an Executive Order effective on January 20, 2016, announcing that the New York State Division of Human Rights has adopted new regulations that ban discrimination and harassment against transgender people. As of January 20, 2016, transgender individuals everywhere in New York are protected under the state’s Human Rights Law against discrimination in employment, housing, business, and financial transactions.

This Executive Order rang out loud and clear across the state that New York will not stand for discrimination against transgender people.

Shauna O’Toole – On Saturday, May 14 at 9 a.m. in the Center for the Arts.

Shauna O’Toole, LGBTQ outreach educator at the LGBTQ Center of the Finger Lakes, delivered the commencement address. Trans activist, educator, writer, Shauna O’Toole said, “What I want to do these next few minutes is to share a few thoughts on how to have a life that matters.” The recipe includes the following: when the experts say it can’t be done, that is your signal to find an answer yourself; WORDS - words have the power to lift up and to crush. Words can bring life.

Words can kill; step through the closet door and create your own life. Step into the light of day; doors are meant to be opened – not hidden behind. You choose the ingredients – make them matter.

Jason Robert Ballard -- Chosen as Grand Marshall for the 2016 ROC Pride Parade, Jason Robert Ballard is the founder and editor in chief of FTM (Female –to-Male) Magazine. He has been immersed in the trans masculine community since 2007 and transitioning medically/surgically for eight years.

He identifies as a straight transgender ally and is married. A regular at Equal Grounds, Jason created a website entitled Self Made Man as a one stop shop for people interested in transitioning to male to read about the real process involved and steps to take. FTM Magazine followed. Jason hopes his website and magazine have played a part in allowing people to come out and feel safe.

WE ARE ORLANDO – The Rochester LGBT community’s response to the unthinkable Orlando Pulse nightclub shootings on Sunday, June 12, 2016 was to proclaim - WE ARE ORLANDO in solidarity with the victims, families and friends of the 49 men and women who were killed. The response was immediate and continuous.

On Monday, June 13, 700+ rallied outside the Bachelor Forum to hear community members and public officials express sympathy and support for Rochester’s LGBT community. On Sunday evening, June 19, a candlelight vigil was held at Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church on East Main St. searching for community and support. On Saturday, July 19 photos of the 49 who died in Orlando were carried in the ROC Pride Parade in memoriam. As we continue to heal, remember and draw from the unity we experienced in proclaiming WE ARE ORLANDO, we must be vigilant.

James R. Moran – On June 8, 2016, the Gay Alliance honored Jim Moran, a dedicated career educator and a living example of what it means to truly be committed to enhancing a sense of community within and between our diverse

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET (10 Heroes continued from page 24) and unique members. Jim encourages his fellow SAGE members to challenge barriers preventing community development and to push the value of inter-generational conversations. Jim challenges the Alliance and staff to grow the organization, to do more and to do everything better.

Scott Fearing, Executive Director of the Gay Alliance, identified Jim as a “special donor” who has donated more financially than any other living individual – over $38,000 in the past five years and as a person who does good work not for recognition, but simply because it is the right thing to do!

Center For Youth – Elaine Spaull, Executive Director – The RISE Brunch Leadership Award goes to organizations and individuals who really step up to the plate to support LGBTQ youth. The Center for Youth under the Leadership of Elaine Spaull has proven to be such an organization. The Center for Youth has been a very strong advocate for the LGBTQ community in all of their programs. They have worked to insure their housing program is welcoming to our community members including accommodating the needs of trans people. Providing space for our youth, and providing all their staff with LGBTQ cultural competency training are just two ways they let their donors and sponsors know they support LGBTQ issues.

Gay Alliance – On October 18, 2016, the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley was awarded the Debra E. Bernhardt Annual Archives Award for Excellence in Documenting New York’s History. In the world of archives, the NYS Archives Awards are the highest recognition you can receive from NYS for outstanding archives and records management work of individuals and organizations in New York State. The Gay Alliance received this award as a result of the work done by the Library & Archives Program and the Shoulders To Stand On Documentation and preservation Program begun in 2013. The Gay Alliance and the Rochester LGBTQ community should be proud to be among the first LGBTQ communities in the nation to document its own local history.

Peter Mohr - On World AIDS Day, Thursday, December 1, 2016, the University of Rochester’s Center For AIDS Research (CFAR) presented Peter Mohr, owner of the Bachelor Forum, with the CFAR Community Partner Award for Peter’s advocacy and support of the LGBT community and for fostering community collaboration and participation in HIV/ AIDS research. Michael C. Keefer, M.D., professor of Infectious Diseases and codirector of the UR CFAR presented the award to Peter. The CFAR Community Partner Award recognizes a member of the community who has gone above and beyond to support HIV/AIDS research locally. Peter has been -- and continues to be -- a tireless advocate for the LGBTQ community.

Rev. Jim Mulcahy – Former pastor of Open Arms MCC Church in Rochester, Rev. Mulcahy has once again brought visibility to the LGBTQ community by his outspokenness and bold activism on behalf of the LGBT community in Ukraine and Russia. Rev. Jim is currently the Eastern Europe coordinator for the U.S. based Metropolitan Community Church denomination, and as such visited Russia in July. He was confronted by police who said he was accused of planning to perform a same sex marriage. He was taken to Samara police station, held for eight hours, tried without legal representation and then expelled from Russia. Rev. Jim continues to be visible and a strong voice for the oppressed LGBT communities in Eastern Europe.

These Shoulders have given the LGBT community and the Greater Rochester community a reason to be OUT and PROUD! Their activism and lives bear witness to the ever-opening door of our Closets!

Shoulders to Stand On congratulates with gratitude its 2016 Shoulders Heroes! ■

Find the friends, fun, and common interests you’re looking for through the various groups listed here

Community DIGNITY-INTEGRITY Since March, 1975, Dignity-Integrity Rochester has been welcoming all who come through our doors, worshiping every week at 5 p.m. at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St., at the corner of Broad St. We have the following services and activities for the month of February, 2017.

February Services: 1st Sunday: Episcopal Mass/Healing Service, with music 2nd Sunday: Roman Catholic Liturgy of the Word, with music 3rd Sunday: Quiet Episcopal Mass 4th Sunday: Prayers to start the Week followed by Potluck.

The theme for the February potluck is “Pie Party”. International Pi Day is in early March, so we’ll get the jump on the celebration. What kind of pie? Any kind!

Let’s brainstorm… Quiche is a pie, chicken pot pie, and so is apple or pumpkin!

Bring your favorite and we’ll have a feast!

There is always plenty to share, so don’t worry if you’ve no time to shop or cook.

After each service during the remainder of the month we’ll be gathering for fellowship around a tasty coffee hour and going out to a local restaurant for dinner. Join us anytime!

WINTER CABIN PARTY is Saturday, Feb. 25, 5-9 p.m. This year’s theme is Mardi Gras. Bring a munchie or a Mardi Gras-themed dish to pass, a game (cards, a board game, or one of your favorites) and friends! We’ll provide paper goods, beverages and a roaring fire! Plans are to meet at 5 p.m., eat at 6 p.m. and play games or chat with friends new and old until 9 p.m.

Call the Hotline for location and directions to the event and come join the fun!

Remember that you can always call the Hotline at 585-234-5092 or check our website at www.di-rochester.org/ for updates on services and activities.

EMPIRE BEARS The Empire Bears is a group of friendly men who admire other hairy, heavy men. We get together for supper every Wednesday at 6 p.m.

2/1 will be Yummy Hot Pot. 2/8 is Peppermints on Rte 15 south. 2/15 is Carrabba’s. 2/22 is the Winfield Grill. We host a potluck at the GAGV on College Ave at 6:30 on second Saturdays. 2/11 we’ll celebrate Valentine’s Day. We’ll supply paper and plastic. You bring a favorite dish to pass.

Coming up, we have a few out of town events. Late night on second Saturdays is Buffalo Bear night. Sign up at drenchedfur.com for a great weekend in Erie at the end of March. Start calling Jones Pond on 2/15 to make reservations for this summer. Look for us on Facebook. See you around.

OPEN ARMS MCC Open Arms MCC is a vibrant, boldly inclusive church that seeks to live the message that “God loves you just the way you are.” Our goals are: 1) do justice, show kindness, and live humbly with God; 2) explore life’s questions with open hearts and minds; 3) raise our voices in sacred defiance against religious (and political or systemic) exclusion, and 4) reach out to those with no hope.

What is a 10:30 a.m. Sunday morning service like? First there are the people – every gender identity and gender expression, all sexual orientations, every color,

and all ages that gather to worship and celebrate the God who made them just as they are meant to be. When the service starts you can tell that this is not going to be just any worship experience. We blend traditional and contemporary music, multimedia presentations, a reading of the living word of God, and a message that shares how the word of God speaks to us today. Every service includes communion – God’s table is open to all no matter who you are or what you believe. When the service is over, join us for coffee, fellowship, and a snack in the Community Center.

Our Sunday sermons are now available to listen to on our website – just click on the link below to listen to Sunday’s Sermon at: http://www.openarmsmcc.org/ newsletter-sermons Here’s what’s happening at Open Arms for the months of February: Sunday School for Teens & Tweens is on Feb. 5 during the service and refreshments are served.

Our newest ministry, Giving Arms, provides a variety of small household items to people in need, especially those who are transitioning to new housing.

We are working with various community organizations that have clients in need.

We are now accepting donations of new or gently used items, such as small appliances, linens, kitchen utensils, bathroom supplies, etc. A big thank you to all who have donated so far. If you know of someone in need or have items to donate, please contact the church at 271-8478.

The TRANSformative Ministry is now in its second year and our next meeting will be Sunday, Feb. 12, 12-1:30 p.m.

Through this ministry, we support and respect people of all gender identities and gender expressions. We create ties by linking people of diverse gender identities and expressions, and their allies, through stewardship, education, and social justice.

Contact us to learn more and check our Facebook page.

We host a number of community groups in our Community Center: AFTY (Adult Families with Trans Youth) meets the first Tuesday of each month from 5:30-6:30 p.m.; PFLAG (Parents, Friends and Family of Lesbians, Gays, Trans, and Questioning) meets on the third Sunday of each month at 1:00 p.m.; TAGR Trans Alliance of Greater Rochester meets on the third Saturday of each month from 3:00 - 5:30 p.m.

New Beginnings Christian Fellowship is having their services in the sanctuary on the first and third Sundays of each month from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Our Emergency Food Shelf has a supply of non-perishable items in stock for when our neighbors stop in looking for emergency supplies. If you are out shopping and can pick up one or two items it would be greatly appreciated. Items such as toothpaste, soap, paper towels, toilet paper, tampons, sanitary pads, and baby wipes are needed. Also, non-perishable food items that require little preparation (pasta meals, canned meat/tuna, vegetables, and beans), and dry food items such as cereal, pasta and mixes. Pop-top cans are appreciated as many homeless persons do not have access to can openers. Pet food is also needed. We have some clothing available - socks, shoes, sneakers and shirts.

Our facilities are available for rental by any community groups or individuals needing a safe and flexible meeting space.

You can see our ads with pictures and rental fees on Craigslist.

At Open Arms MCC we are com-

25 mitted to Building Bridges and Changing Lives. You are welcome, regardless of your sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, or your religious beliefs. We are located at 707 East Main St., across from the Delta Sonic Car Wash. There is plenty of free parking in front and to the side of our building. For updated information on coming events and to view our facilities, check our website: openarmsmcc.org. Call the church if you would like to receive our monthly electronic newsletter.

Our provisional pastoral leader, Brae Adams, has office hours on Tuesdays, from 10:45 a.m. - 2 p.m. and by appointment. (Please call first to make sure she’s available.) Open Arms regular office hours are Thursdays and Fridays from 12-4 p.m. and our phone number is (585) 271-8478.

ROMANS Happy Nude Year! Life is good if we can eat, drink and be merry.... especially when we can do that with like-minded nude friends.

Rochester Male Naturists (ROMANS) is a nude social club for men over 21 years old to get together to enjoy various levels of male bonding and sharing of interests. During the holiday season last year we joined Syracuse Naked Men to celebrate Thanksgiving and New Year and had our own Christmas/Hanukkah celebration at a member’s home.

In January we had a special gathering late in the month to welcome Chinese New Year, with a clothed lunch in a Chinese restaurant and a nude meeting at a member’s home for dessert and coffee.

From October to April we join members of Naturists Rochester at their monthly nude swim in a facility in Rochester and their Men Only swim in a member’s basement pool/sauna.

ROMANS is a gay and gay-friendly social club for men to enjoy nudism in a safe environment. If you are interested in becoming a member, contact us via email at wnyromans@yahoo.com, or by regular mail at PO Box 92293, Rochester, NY 14692 or call us at our message line 585354-8979. You can find more information about the club and our activities at our website www.wnyromans.com.

MEET. GREET. EAT. BINGO. Saturday Potluck & Bingo Bash February 18, 5-8pm The Gay Alliance LGBTQ Resource Center 100 College Avenue Bring a dish to pass $3 donation-Token prizes All are welcome!

Inquiring minds want to know...

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

Join us at the Gay Alliance LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave., for new learning opportunities.

There’s something for everyone and we invite participants experienced and new to come and enjoy these classes and community workshops.

2/1, 2/8, 5:30-6:30pm Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Giver Support Sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association and Life Span. Session 1: Know the 10 signs; Session 2: The basics: understanding Alzheimer’s disease; Session 3: Effective Communication; Session 4: Healthy Living for your brain and body This is a group that offers support to caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or memory impairment. Topics to be discussed are the basics of the disease, communication with the patient, and responding to challenging behavior.

2/4–2/25, 3pm every Saturday, Queer as Folk Join us Saturdays at 3pm as we screen the entire seasons of Queer as Folk. We will begin with season 1. Come chill at the Alliance kick back with popcorn and pop.

Brash humor and genuine emotion make up this original series revolving around the lives, loves, ambitions, careers and friendships of a group of gay men and women living on Liberty Avenue in contemporary Pittsburgh, PA. The show offers an unapologetic look at modern, urban gay and lesbian lives while addressing the most critical health and political issues affecting the community.

Sometimes racy, sometimes sensitive and always straight to the heart, Queer as Folk is groundbreaking television at its best.

2/28, 6:30–8pm, Craft Night Out Come get crafty at the Alliance. Chill with friends and enjoy a night of crafting, coffee, coloring crochet, beading, clay...anything your crafty heart desires. All ages welcomed.

2/10–3/17, 1-3:30pm, Living Healthy Workshop Fridays. Feel better, be in control, do the things you want to do!

A highly interactive 6-session, 2.5 hour peer-led health education workshop that utilizes the evidence-based Chronic Disease SelfManagement Program (CDSMP) curriculum developed and tested at Stanford University. The Living Healthy Workshop is for anyone dealing with a chronic or limiting health condition and their caregivers who want to learn how to self-manage and take control in dealing with pain and fatigue, discover better nutrition and exercise choices, and learn better ways to talk with your doctor and family about your health. Registration required, please call the Resource Center: 585-244-8640.

2/16, 6:30-8:30pm, PRIDE Float Building Workshop Tired of riding a mediocre float throughout the downtown during the ROC Pride Parade? Want to learn how to build a float that will make heads turn and bring positive attention to your business or organization? The Gay Alliance is hosting this building workshop to help parade participants make the most out of their celebration. Get an early start on your Pride Parade Float. How to find vehicles, build a frame. Work with homemade and purchased materials. All are welcome!

2/19, 7–11pm, One MARVELOUS Evening Valentine Dance at 140 Alex Bar & Grill Join us for One Marvelous Evening Valentine Costume Dance. Dress as your favorite MARVEL-DC comic character. (Costume optional) Ages 13 and up are welcome to attend. “Super” Food, “Powerful” music, “Uniting” community! Awesome music by DJ Solidbear. Brought to you by your friends at the Gay Alliance. $10. admission includes food and fun. Cash Bar, Costume Contest!

2/21, 6:30–8:30pm, Just Poets Workshop This is a 4-week workshop built on the notion that the most exciting writing begins after the first draft.

Learn the basics all the way to a poetry slam at the end of the session. This workshop will be held the third Tuesday of the month.

2/22-4/12, 2:30–3:30, TAI CHI for Arthritis Every Wednesday and Friday Tai Chi combines slow moving with deep breathing. It increases strength, balance and posture, prevents falls, improves mind, body, and spirit, reduces stress and increases relaxation. Presented by Lifespan. This program is offered as part of the NYS Department of Health.

2/11, 1-2:30pm, Kids Messy Art Saturday Dress for mess and artistic success! Inspire your child’s creativity and help build fine motor skills though this new art class.

Your child can smear, squeeze, splatter and otherwise explore artistic possibilities using a variety of materials including paints, doughs, crayons, chalk, and collage. Get ready for a messy good time! All ages welcome!

2/12, 2-430pm, Classic Campy Cinema Chill at the Gay Alliance and get campy with our monthly classic LGBTQ films. Our February film is Little Shop of Horrors.

A 1986 American rock musical horror-comedy film directed

by Frank Oz. It is a film adaptation of the off-Broadway musical comedy of the same name by composer Alan Menken and writer Howard Ashman about a nerdy florist shop worker who raises a vicious, raunchy plant that feeds on human blood. Menken and Ashman’s Off-Broadway musical was based on the low-budget 1960 film, The Little Shop of Horrors, directed by Roger Corman.

The film stars Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia, Steve Martin, and Levi Stubbs as the voice of Audrey II. The film also featured special appearances by James Belushi, John Candy, Christopher Guest, and Bill Murray.

Rochester LGBTQ Resource Center

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Arts & Entertainment a career in film/TV, but I also was exposed to the stage and musicals at a very young age, as my parents are big theater fans. I was very lucky to see a lot of live theater growing up, and lots of movie-musicals as well (like The Sound Of Music, which was one of my favorites!).

“When it was time to decide what I wanted my major to be in college, I opted for musical theater over straight acting because I wanted the training and tools a musical theater degree would give me. I am so grateful I ended up in a program like Syracuse Drama’s because of how well rounded and acting-focused it is.

In terms of a career in theatre vs. film, wouldn’t say I prefer one over the other; I appreciate and enjoy both in different ways and ideally would love to do it all.”

See a gay eye’s view of Manhattan Sundays at Eastman Museum

Anna Mintzer

Anna Mintzer loves the role music plays in “The Sound of Music”

By Susan Jordan Anna Mintzer (Sister Sophia, u/s Maria Rainer) says she is ecstatic to be joining The Sound of Music straight from playing the lead role of Jemma in the world premiere reading of the new musical A Rock And A Hard Place in NYC. On the big screen, she recently appeared as Joanna in the Fathom Event musical feature film Easter Mysteries.

The beloved musical comes to the Auditorium Theatre Feb. 28-March 5.

What makes The Sound of Music special to her? Anna told The Empty Closet, “I have always been a huge Rodgers & Hammerstein fan, so first of all, getting to sing their music every night is such a joy. Especially in playing a nun, singing the beautiful melodies that Rodgers wrote to Latin hymns, I essentially get to pray on stage every show -- not even in a necessarily religious way, but just in feeling the beauty and pure emotion of the music...

“Which leads me to something that is most special to me about this show: the role that music plays in the story. I love how it connects Maria to everything -- nature, people (whether it be Captain von Trapp, his children, the Mother Abbess...), God. I definitely identify with that.”

Touring with a show is exciting but challenging. Anna says, “The biggest challenge on tour for me is also one of its greatest adventures -- living out of a suitcase. It can be difficult traveling with belongings that can’t be over a certain weight for flying, and having to limit the physical items I have with me without being home for weeks. It’s something I’ve learned to appreciate, though. In each new city, I ‘move in’ to my hotel room for

the week, unpacking everything, maybe buying a plant or flowers (I’m currently traveling with a mini pine tree!), and turning it into a little home.”

The Sound of Music is familiar to everyone, and most people know the songs by heart and enjoy “twirling” like Julie Andrews on the mountainside.

Nonetheless, Anna feels that this production will surprise audiences. She notes, “The Sound Of Music movie is familiar to so many, but it isn’t as well known that the stage version came before the movie. For people who know the movie, they may be surprised to hear some songs sung in different places in the show, or even ones that weren’t kept in the movie, but are Rodgers & Hammerstein songs originally written for the piece. In that way, it keeps the audience on their toes and their ears open to experience The Sound Of Music in a way they may not have before.

“Our production also highlights the political climate of the piece. It is one of those beloved, feel-good shows with songs everyone can sing along to, adorable children, etc. but it is also set in a very dangerous time.

Opening up the audiences’ eyes to the nuances of the political state that Austria and the characters are in during the show brings a fresh spin to it.”

Anna went to college in Syracuse. “I am from Los Angeles, Calif., but I got my BFA in Musical Theatre from Syracuse University. Go Orange! After four unforgettable years as an undergrad there, Upstate NY will always have a special place in my heart.”

What is the secret to success in show business? “A lot of hard work! I had fantastic training at Syracuse and think it’s important to continue to study and practice my craft so that I can stay on top of my game and be as well prepared as possible when new opportunities present themselves. Growing up in Los Angeles, I was focused on

“Richard Renaldi: Manhattan Sunday” is at the Eastman Museum from Jan. 21 until June 11.

Exhibited at a museum for the first time, photographer Richard Renaldi’s new series consists of portraits, urban still

Richard Renaldi (American, b. 1968) Inkjet print. Courtesy of the artist and Benrubi Gallery. ©Ricahard Renaldi 05.

lifes, and streetscapes made in the wee hours of Sunday morning, when post-bacchanalian characters join early-morning workers in New York City’s nooks and crannies.

Renaldi uses an 8×10inch view camera to make his pictures, resulting in meticulous black-and-white images that magnif y the uniqueness of each subject while capturing the singular

mood that suffuses the city in the hours before dawn.

Implicit in the work is Renaldi’s personal experience as a gay nightclub denizen in New York during and after the AIDS crisis, as well as his appreciation for the myriad and motley ways that the urban context encourages social awareness and a strong, if temporary, sense of community. ■

Naked Boys Singing! comes to Downstairs Cabaret Downstairs Cabaret Theatre has announced a Limited 3-Week-Only Engagement of Naked Boys Singing!, through Feb. 14. The American Vaudeville-style review premiered in 1998 and has been thrilling audiences ever since. Tickets are $30-35.

The six-member cast sings such “cheeky” numbers as “Gratuitous Nudity,” “The Bliss of a Bris,” “Fight the Urge” and “Perky Little Porn Star.” The show is popular with both straight and LGBT audiences

alike, as well as “naturists.”

This show has a local connection, as the tour is being produced and directed by Honeoye-native Tim Evanicki, a Juilliard alum who now resides in Orlando, Fla. and runs Tim Evanicki Productions.

“Obviously, the nudity hooks curious audiences into purchasing tickets,” he says, “but, after the first song, audiences become so charmed by the show and the songs, they quickly seem to forget the cast is performing naked.” Evanicki is no stranger

to the Downstairs Cabaret Theatre stage, and has performed in several productions there.

“I’m always excited when I can bring one of my projects home to Rochester,” he adds.

Prior to Rochester, the tour enjoyed a completely sold-out run for five weeks in Fort Lauderdale, and enjoyed sold-out houses in Atlanta, Ga. as well.

The touring cast includes Kable Barnhart, Danny Burgos, Tim Garnham, Anthony Massarotto, Stephen Millett and Charles Walljasper Robinson. ■

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

Sign up now for April’s trans Family Fun weekend in Groton, Ct.

At a reading by Just Poets.

Just Poets workshops are every third Tuesday at Resource Center Longtime Rochester writers’ group Just Poets will host a four-week series of poetry workshops beginning February 21, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the GAGV Resource Center, and continuing through spring. Focused on LGBTQ writers and led by seasoned poets, each workshop will include time for writing, sharing, and critiquing of work among a small, relaxed group.

Every participant can look forward to coming away with new work, insightful feedback, and the inspiration to revise and refine their writing The workshop is free, but registration is required. Send your name, contact info, and a poem you’ve written to colleen-

powderly@gmail.com.

The series continues with workshops March 21, April 18, and May 16, same time and place. Participants may attend as many or as few sessions as they like, but we encourage you to join us for all four to realize the most improvement in your skills—and to build a stronger community of poets in the process.

Just Poets notes, “The workshop is built on the notion that the most exciting writing begins after the third draft.”

Just Poets launched R-VOICES in 2015, an ambitious program to bring together diverse groups of people and build poetic community across Greater Rochester. The series has had great success: over 100 artists help build an audience of nearly 600 in R-VOICES’ first year; in 2016 the turn-out was even stronger— well over 800 people!

Two parents of a transgender child are joint owners of a hotel in Groton, Ct., and for the past two years they’ve opened their hotel to families of trans youth for a fun and affordable weekend.

A parent who attended a Weekend says, “Most of the hotel was all ours for the weekend, including the pool, banquet room, meeting rooms, and a whole wing of hotel rooms.

There was a HUGE clothing swap. Hairdressers and makeup artists donated their time. Lots of other volunteers contributed too... including a DJ (for the talent show and karaoke night) and artists (for arts & crafts with younger kids). There were movies, games, bowling at a nearby bowling alley, facilitated workshops and presentations for parents, delicious food (provided by the hotel and donated by local restaurants), and much more. So much sharing, friendship, support and fun!”

There will be TWO Family Fun Weekends in 2017 - one in February and one in April. The February weekend is completely booked, because nearly everyone who previously attended is returning. The April weekend is filling up quickly!

When: April 7-9, 2017 Where: Groton, Ct. Cost: $350 for two in a room; $375 for three in a room; $400 for four in a room.

That price is the total cost for the whole weekend... not

per night or per person, but the total for everyone in the room for the whole weekend! The price includes the hotel room, all meals, all materials for all the workshops, all activities, crafts, outings, etc.

More than four people can stay in one room if they don’t mind sleeping on the floor or

on cots. Last year, some families saved money by sharing a room with another family. If there are more than four in a room then you only need to add $25 for each extra person (to cover the cost of their food.)

For information in how to sign up, contact: terri@alliesandangels.com ■

Gay Alliance to host Valentine’s Dance Feb. 19 at 140 Alex Bar & Grill It’s that time of the year again – time for love, romance and chocolate… and super heroes.

The Gay Alliance’s Valentine Dance will take place at 140 Alex Bar & Grill on Feb. 19, starting at 7 p.m. It will be a costume dance and the theme is “One Marvelous Evening”. Every one is invited to come as their favorite Marvel-DC hero/heroine.

The evening will also feature “super food, powerful music and uniting community”. Admission is $10. ■

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Book Reviews Three Memoirs in NYC, which was titled Pictures. Crimp organized the exhibit and wrote the essay for the accompanying catalogue. The essay is a well-regarded piece of art criticism and the exhibit has been called “a foundational exhibition for postmodern art.”

Douglas Crimp is currently an art critic and Fanny Knapp Professor of Art History at the University of Rochester.

Comments and questions to blueskye96@yahoo.com

YHonk by Martha Fass

G A L L ER Y Q G A L L ER Y Q G A L L ER Y Q Gallery Q First Friday opening features Margot Fass: Things Which Are Not Seen Gallery Q presents Margot Fass: Things Which are Not Seen. The opening is Friday, Feb. 3 with a reception from 6-9 p.m. and an artist’s talk at 7 p.m. at Gallery Q, located at 100 College Ave. This exhibition showcases Fass’s vibrant and enigmatic mixed media and collage work.

Combining painting, photographs, paper, and fabric, Fass depicts that which is ancient, threatened and needs to be protected. Her subject matter includes the five thousand year old Hebrew alphabet and the ancient Grand Canyon. She also explores the holiness of ordinary lives through deeply personal and intimate portraits. The impermanence of some of her materials mirrors the fragility of her subject matter including both natural wonders as well as our own lives.

Fass has been working with mixed media since 2006. She says, “It seems that the most compassionate, loving, and humble thing to do in the face of finite lives is to love, pray and preserve.

Through overcoming the obstacles to doing these things, I hope to strengthen my faith and commitment to my family, community and world.”

Gallery Q is open Monday and Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., as well as Tuesday Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m.–8 p.m. The exhibiton closes Feb. 24.

Snow Ice Cream and Turnips: Stories by Mary Lucinda Sangree

Before Pictures

By R.M. Cook Before Pictures By Douglas Crimp, University of Chicago Press, 2016, 306 pages hardbound Annotated, w/photos $39.

“Growing up in Coeur D’Alene Idaho, a small town as notorious for its xenophobia as renowned for its natural beauty, made me want to live in a big city even before I’d seen one.”

Thus Douglas Crimp, author, editor, educator and art critic, begins his latest book, a memoir, a trifecta of autobiography, art history, and art criticism. As a closeted young gay man, Crimp left Idaho as soon as possible and in 1962 enrolled in Tulane University in New Orleans.

At Tulane Crimp entered the school of architecture and soon was persuaded by one of his professors to study art history instead of architecture. During his time in New Orleans, in addition to his studies, he began to explore the gay scene and had his first gay experiences. After Tulane Crimp made the journey many young men of his vintage dreamed of and never made, the move to New York City. New York was, and still is, a Mecca for the art world, the epicenter of art, theatre, dance, literature, and fashion.

Soon after his arrival in New York he was hired as a curatorial assistant at the Guggenheim Museum and later became editor of October magazine, an influential art and culture publication. However, life in New York was not all work. The 1970s was a time of creativity, artistic and sexual exploration, roller disco, and drugs. The city was a Mardi Gras of hedonistic gay sex, mindless all night partying, gallery openings, experimental art performances, exhibits and AIDS. In this book Crimp, well known as an art critic and editor, presents a portrait of the New York art scene in the 1970s in a well-written, crisp prose style. His descriptions of that period are of value to art historians and those with an interest in the art and artistic experimentation of that era. The book contains many photographs including photos by Peter Hujar, and several iconic photos by Alvin Baltrop portraying erotic gay scenes on the piers in NYC. Crimp’s book is profusely annotated and contains a comprehensive index.

The book’s passages of art criticism will be valued by serious art historians and students of art history. However, many of these segments may be too in depth and beyond the scope of the casual art lover and they may find these intimidating.

The book is a worthy read if only for the art history of the period and the engaging autobiographical content.

The book’s title, Before Pictures, refers to Crimp’s life before his exhibit in 1977 of young, emerging artists at Artists Space

By Karen Hagberg Editing by Marge Forth; Illustrations by Karen Burns; Copyright 2016 by Marge Forth Although the subtitle would lead us to believe that this is a collection of fictional “stories,” this book is actually the memoir of Cindy Sangree, a longtime lesbian feminist activist here in Rochester, New York who died here in 2014 at the age of 82 with her partner of thirty-one years, Marge Forth, at her side. Forth has lovingly produced a handsome edition, embellished with the evocative illustrations of Karen Burns, that is accompanied by a 2-CD set of Cindy reading most of the stories that appear in the printed volume.

Raised in Arkansas in the ‘30s and ‘40s, Cindy describes her awakening as the “other” among conventional people.

She had attractions to women for which there was no name. She was stunned as a very young child when first exposed to overt racism and at a loss to understand it. She was an academic achiever who was raised to please her family, to be a good girl and get married as she was supposed to, and to have children. She did all of these things, but she also pursued her education until she earned a Ph.D. in sociology, a subject she taught in several institutions of higher learning. It was not until she was 52 years old that she came out as a lesbian and began to live a life that authenticated her true self.

The stories exquisitely and subtly describe the pains and disappointments of a young person in her predicament back in those days. The mixed messages of a favorite grandmother: “Be a good girl, but be your own strong person;” the love for her African-American caretaker who was paid to love back and who left unceremoniously; the hopeless attraction to a vulnerable friend who had just lost her mother; her first romantic love for a summer friend who announced she would not be returning the following summer because she was “wasting her time” being there. One heartbreak after another.

Sangree portrays these feelings in prose filled with descriptive detail so vivid that the reader is there with her on every page. Personally, I identified with all the feelings, all the events, the settings, the family members, the collection of friends and neighbors; the confusion, the shame, the loss, the forced pretenses when growing up gay in a world that never even speaks the word.

Amazingly, the author comes through all of this with little or no bitterness or anger in these accounts. There is a huge generosity of spirit toward others throughout the book. Those who knew her knew she was a woman of peace.

There is a transcript of various speakers at her memorial at the end of the volume, one of whom was her ex-husband who spoke very highly of her. Despite the challenges of her time and her environment, Sangree leaves the reader uplifted by the beauty of the world and by her finally coming out which was joyous, indeed.

One may obtain the book and the accompanying CDs by emailing Marge Forth mforth@rochester.rr.com. $20.

Woman Incognito: An Informal Book Review

By Robyn Sheppard Lee, Transcender. Woman Incognito.

N.p.: Oversoul, 2015. Print.

A frequent (and all-too-often unwanted) question I am asked as a trans woman is, “Have you had the surgery?” As if there was one, single, all-inclusive surgery that would magically transform my body into one that more accurately reflects my gender identity.

Woman Incognito avoids that question altogether. Transcender Lee says, “This book is the story of two paths I have taken during my life. The first was a torturous path to self-discovery. The second is the path I have been following since I realized I was a woman in a male body.” (Lee, 1) This passage, as well as so many others, had me saying to myself, “I could have written this book!”

Ms. Lee recounts many of the incidents in her childhood and early life that led her to the conclusion that she was indeed “a woman in a man’s body.”

But beyond this realization, she makes a strong and lucid case for not transitioning but remaining — at least to outward appearances — male. And given the results of our latest presidential election, this may be for many of us not only a viable option, but perhaps a matter of life or death.

The final chapter of the book is entitled “Things I Wish My Parents Had Known.” In it, Ms Lee ends her book on a positive note and lists several resources for gender-questioning people and their families, many of which can be found on the Internet. And while the copy of the book that I read was a pre-publication review copy, the published version can be found at many online booksellers, including both Amazon and Walmart.

If you are struggling with gender identity, or know someone who is, I strongly urge you to read this book.\ About Robyn Sheppard Ms. Sheppard is a former two-year-old who enjoys reading and writing (but not arithmetic). She is in her 7th or 8th year living as her authentic self. She volunteers at the Gay Alliance, and still sleeps with Maggie, the teddy bear she inherited from her wife’s grandmother. ■

GAY ALLIANCE NEWS – FEBRUARY 2017

THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

Volunteer of the month: Lizz McPhee If you are visiting us at the Alliance and you see a flash move in front of you it will be Lizz McPhee our February volunteer of the month. Lizz works relentlessly at the Center making sure the rooms are set up for events, floors are vacuumed and everything is in order.

Her behind the scene work with our SAGE program ensures that Tuesday lunches go off without a hitch.

We sat down with Lizz to ask how volunteering at the Alliance has impacted her life. Lizz states that by being in the safe space at the Alliance she can be her authentic self. She can dress and act as her true self and feels totally accepted. “Even though I am not totally out as a Trans woman in my day to day life, I can come to the Center and relax, be authentic and feel free.

This feeling of authenticity has built my confidence in who I am as a woman and allowed me to move forward in my life’s journey.

“I began volunteering five years ago at the Alliance and was terrified. I was struggling with my gender identity and was afraid. I felt at the time I was not accepted in the gay and lesbian world, I longed for a place to feel that acceptance. I was caring for my father who was ill, and found that I had become isolated and afraid to leave my home. After the death of my father in 2012 I started volunteering at the Alliance. PRIDE was my first experience as a volunteer.

“Volunteering was the best thing I have ever done in my life.

I began meeting people, building bridges, feeling acceptance and love like I have never experienced. In 2015 I was pulled

back into volunteering by Anne Tischer and asked to work on the Halloween Dance, 2016. I helped build the SAGE float and actually participated in the PRIDE parade. I was front and center in the parade route and the sense of PRIDE was overwhelming. That feeling of PRIDE made me feel the need to become more engaged with people and volunteering.

“I am at the Center almost every day, no task is too big or too small. I now feel love, I am respected, I have experienced acceptance… I am HOME. My life is not perfect and my life journey continues but with my Alliance family by my side I can conquer anything!”

Colleen Raimond, new Board president, talks about what lies ahead in 2017

By Susan Jordan Attorney Colleen Raimond, after two years on the Gay Alliance Board, has been named

Colleen Raimond

Board President. She talked recently with The Empty Closet about her new responsibilities and her vision for the future.

What made her decide to take on those responsibilities?

Colleen said, “It’s a great honor and I feel very strongly and am very passionate about what we’re doing at the Alliance.

I was previously Chair of the Development Committee, working with Scott and others here at the agency.

“I’m very excited about what we do here. I have a background in management, I appreciate Scott’s vision, and I wanted to support him and carry on the work our past Board Presidents have done – some big shoes to fill there!”

This is a critical time for LGBTQ people all over the country, with the shift in progress in LGBTQ rights at the federal level. Colleen comments, “In New York we are and have been very progressive and we’re fortunate to have a governor who is a great supporter and ally of our community – so we don’t have worries about state law. Of course we’re going to be looking to educate our community about the choices that we may face.

“One of the things many people thought when we won marriage equality on the federal level was that the fight was over.

We know that’s not the case.

That’s certainly something we’ll be keeping an eye on, along with many other issues.

“The Board’s priority for 2017 is to support Scott and help him and the staff support our community. Included in that of course is supporting our Education Program and the great work they do.

“The local work we do in colleges can educate students from outside New York, which is really important in the changing climate. They’re getting cultural competency and learning to be effective allies. The teaching of allies also helps out of state LGBTQ students.

“One goal I have for the Board this year is to spend less time in the Board Room and

more out in the community. In furtherance of that goal, I am recommending a vote to eliminate half of the yearly Board meetings, so that time can be spent where it is most important.

“Another priority is continuing the great work Anne Tischer and others are doing with the SAGE program. And of course we want to expand community services. For instance, this year we’re bringing back the Campus Out program. There will be a Campus Summit in April at St. John Fisher.”

Colleen adds that she is encouraged by the formation of so many Gay Straight Alliances (GSAs) at local schools, providing support and self-confidence for area youth.

What would she say to people who are thinking of volunteering in some capacity for the Alliance?

“People should volunteer because we do a lot of work in this community and we have a lot of programming that sup-

ports everyone from youth to seniors, and all ages in between.

So go to our website, talk to (Center Director) Jeff Myers, and let us know what your interests are. We need to know what people are interested in doing because maybe six months later something will come up that fits perfectly with their particular skill set. And I encourage folks to take the Speak Out and Safe Zone trainings as both are great ways to learn useful skills.” ■

New hours at the Resource Center The Gay Alliance LGBTQ Resource Center is now open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am- 8:30pm.

PHOTO: JILL FRIER

PHOTO: DEB MOHR

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Planning begins for Pride 2017 By the Rochester Pride Team: Michael, Lora, Sam and Christopher The Rochester community has been celebrating Pride since 1972.

Our LGBTQ+ community has grown and evolved into a strong network with substantial economic, political, and social power. It is with great joy that the Gay Alliance announces ROC Pride 2017 will take place on July 15 and 16 this year.

This is a festival like no other, a campaign to inspire, a party to remember and a fundraising weekend for the Gay Alliance, proud main sponsor and producer of ROC Pride. Last year’s festivities brought over 7,000 people to the weekend festivities.

Our Pride committee aims to deliver accessible, inclusive programming to everyone in the week leading up to ROC Pride Fest. The Pride Parade returns to ROC Pride after a record-setting year with over one hundred units in 2016. This year the parade will celebrate history by showcasing the theme “Summer of Love.”

2017 marks the 50th anniversary of “The Summer of Love,” a movement that said, “...a new concept of celebrations beneath the human underground must emerge, become conscious, and be shared, so a revolution can be formed with a renaissance of compassion, awareness, and love, and the revelation of unity for all mankind.”

Join us this July 15 and 16 for ROC Pride’s 2017 Summer Of Love at historic Cobb’s Hill Park and help us declare our community’s strength. The Fest will feature entertainment performances on several stages, with many food options, shopping opportunities and community resources. ■

The Gay Alliance is a non-profit agency, dedicated to cultivating a healthy, inclusive environment where Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) people are safe, thriving, and enjoying equal rights. We are a coalition of individuals and groups working to empower LGBTQ people to affirm their identities and create an atmosphere where the diversity can thrive both collectively and separately. We educate and advocate for civil rights for all and for the eradication of homophobia.

Board President: Colleen Raimond • Executive Director: Scott Fearing • Center Director: Jeffrey Myers • Education Director: Jeanne Gainsburg Education Coordinator: Rowan Collins • Database: Kat Wiggall Bookkeeper: Christopher Hennelly The Empty Closet: Editor: Susan Jordan E-mail: susanj@gayalliance.org Phone: (585) 244-9030 Designer: Jim Anderson Fax: (585) 244-8246 Advertising: (585) 244-9030; Jennie Bowker, jennieb@gayalliance.org.

The Gay Alliance, 100 College Avenue, Rochester, New York 14607 • Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 am-5 pm Phone: (585) 244-8640 • Fax: (585) 244-8246 • Website: www.gayalliance.org • E-mail: Info@gayalliance.org

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

GAY ALLIANCE NEWS – FEBRUARY 2017

Speaking Engagements November-December 2016 • Meeting the Mental Health Needs of LGBTQ Clients at GRC-MSW Program • Transgender Healthcare Updates for the Public Health Consortium • SafeZone Training at St. John Fisher College • Meeting the Health Needs of Transgender Clients at Oak Orchard Health • SafeZone Training - Part 2 at West Irondequoit Central School District • Creating Trans Inclusive Workplaces for the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce • Transgender Inclusion and Current Policies on Connections with Evan Dawson • SpeakOUT Training at the LGBTQ Academy at the Gay Alliance • Transgender Panel Presentation at Nazareth College • LGBTQ 101 at Cosgrove Middle School • LGBTQ Panel Presentation at Bloomfield High School • LGBTQ Inclusive Schools Coffee Talk at The Harley School • LGBTQ 101 at SUNY Brockport • Creating LGBTQ Inclusive Schools for the NY Association of School Psychologists Annual Conference • Transgender Panel Presentation at Trans Youth Support Day at the LGBTQ Center at the Gay Alliance • Federal Regulations for Transgender Inclusion in Schools at Trans Youth Support Day at the LGBTQ Center at the Gay Alliance • SafeZone Training at Spectrum Creative Arts • SafeZone Train-the-Trainer Certification Program at SUNY Oswego • LGBTQ 101 at Brighton High School LINK Program (for 21 classes) • Educating With Our Personal Stories at the LGBTQ Academy at the Gay Alliance • Meeting the Health Needs of Transgender Clients-Preliminary Conversation at Sawgrass Surgical Center • Meeting the Health Needs of LGBTQ Clients for the Federation of Nurses Annual Professional Issues Conference (2 sessions) • Creating LGBTQ Inclusive Schools at Wayne Central School District • Creating LGBTQ Inclusive Schools at Urban Choice Charter School (3 sessions) • Effective Activism at SUNY Brockport (2 classes) • SafeZone Training at the LGBTQ Academy at the Gay Alliance • LGBTQ 101 at Cosgrove Middle School’s GSA • Educating With Our Personal Stories at the LGBTQ Academy at the Gay Alliance • Creating LGBTQ Inclusive Schools for the Fulton City School District • SafeZone Training at Rochester Regional Health System School Based Health Centers • LGBTQ Panel Presentation at Hillside Children’s Center • Intimate Partner Violence Within the LGBTQ Communities at the Rochester Academy of Medicine • Meeting the Health Needs of LGBTQ Individuals and Families at St. John Fisher College Feedback from Nov. and Dec. 2016 Participants: • “Everything and more than I’d hoped. The trainers were the best – crammed a ton of information into presentations, participation and different activities – educational FUN. Just thanks.”

• “I learned strategies of how to better interact with students. Thank you! This was fantastic!”

• “Best speaker ever.”

• “Awesome sauce! Usually go to workshops for work or self and don’t learn anything even if ‘supposed’ to be applicable. So not true this time.”

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SAGE FEBRUARY

SAGE members enjoy Happy Hour at the Forum. This month: Feb. 22, 5-7 p.m. Photo: Anne Tischer

Wednesday February, 5:30-6:30pm, Caregiver’s Support Group. Are you caring for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia or Memory Impairment? Topic: “Effective Communication”, hosted by Alzheimer’s Association & Lifespan.

Thursday February 2, 10:30-11:30am, Yoga with Tom; 11:30am-2pm, Brown bag it or pizza & a movie: Oscar nominated “Finding Neverland”, a 2004 British-American semi-biographical film about playwright J. M. Barrie and his relationship with a family who inspired him to create Peter Pan. At the Resource Center.

Saturday February 4, 11am, The Sunrise Restaurant, Dansville – “new outreach” exploratory meeting. Looking for local folks interested in bringing social programs to the Southern Tier!

RSVP to annet@gayalliance.org 585-244-8640 x23.

Monday February 6, 6:30-8pm SAGE Leadership - Organizational Team, LGBTQ Resource Center Tuesday February 7, 10:30-11:30am Yoga with Tom; 11:30am-2pm, “Cake Day” celebration of February birthdays, catered lunch, “Tell your story” discussion. $3. donation. 7pm Men’s Discussion Group at the Center, hosted by Tony & Chuck.

Wednesday February 8, 5:30-6:30pm, Caregiver’s Support Group. Are you caring for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia or Memory Impairment? Topic: “Healthy Eating”, hosted by Alzheimer’s Association & Lifespan.

Thursday February 9, 10:30-11:30am Yoga with Tom; 10am-noon, Breakfast Club at Denny’s (911 Jefferson Rd., Henrietta ) Please RSVP to Audet by Feb 7 at 585-287-2958 or email aprice002@aol.com.

Saturday February 11, 4– 7pm, Traveling Pot Luck Valentines Party at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6188 Main Road, Stafford NY 14143. Appetizers & program at 4pm; Dinner at 5pm.

Bring a dish to pass & $3. donation. Carpool from Rochester: annet@gayalliance.org or 585 244-8640x23 Sunday February 12, 2–5pm, Euchre Social & Campy Classic Cinema at the LGBTQ Resource Center. Your choice of fun! All level card players welcome. $3. donation. Vintage film: Little Shop of Horrors, a 1986 American rock musical horror comedy film directed by Frank Oz. Monday February 13, 6:30-8pm, SAGE Leadership - Services Team, LGBTQ Resource Center Tuesday February 14, 10:30-11:30am, Yoga with Tom; 11:30am–2pm Catered lunch Valentine Party: Bring your best “Valentine Dessert” and win a prize, themed team Pictionary, $3. donation, 7pm – Men’s Discussion Group at the Center, hosted by Tony & Chuck.

Thursday February 16, 10:30-11:30am, Yoga with Tom in LGBTQ Resource Center.

Saturday February 18, 5– 8pm Saturday Pot Luck & Bingo Bash. All are welcome, LGBTQ Resource Center $3. donation toward token prizes.

Monday February 20, 6:30-8pm SAGE Leadership – Calendar Team, LGBTQ Resource Center Tuesday February 21, 10:30-11:30am, Yoga with Tom; 11:30am Catered lunch, $3. donation, 12:30pm HCR presents: Good Habits for Heart Health. 7pm – Men’s Discussion Group at the Center.

Wednesday February 22, 5–7pm, SAGE Happy Hour at Bachelor Forum, 670 University Ave, 14607. Pizza & drink specials. All 21+ are welcome.

Thursday February 23, 10:30-11:30am Yoga with Tom in LGBTQ Resource Center.

Friday February 24, 5:30pm, Fabulous Fish Fry at Golden Fox Restaurant, 1115 Culver Road 14609. Please RSVP by Feb. 21 to Audet at 585-287-2958 or email aprice002@aol.com Tuesday February 28, 10:30-11:30am, Yoga with Tom, Catered lunch $3. donation, 12:30pm, Cultural Heritage Celebration – bring a special dish & a family story. Hosted by Jessie.

SAGE Rochester is a program of the Gay Alliance designed for LGBTQI people over 50. SAGE operates at the Gay Alliance LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Avenue. All programs are open to the public and all are welcome. Yoga is $5. per person and is offered every Tuesday and Thursday unless specified in calendar. All programs are subject to change and all members are responsible for their own transportation and meals. Become a SAGE member or get more information at: sage@gayalliance.org or 585-244-8640 x23. We are also on Facebook as: SAGE Rochester a program of the Gay Alliance

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

Resources

Check our monthly and ongoing calendar and community section for more groups and events.

For further information, call the Gay Alliance, 2448640 or visit: www.gayalliance.org. More SAGE and Gay Alliance Youth Group info: pages 30-31.

BISEXUALITY RESOURCES AMBI Los Angeles; American Institute of Bisexuality (Journal of Bisexuality); Bay Area Bisexual Network; ; BiNet USA; Bisexual Organizing Project (BOP); Biversity Boston; Boston Bisexual Women’s Network; ComBIne - Columbus, Ohio; Fenway Health’s Bi Health Program; Los Angeles Bi Task Force; New York Area Bisexual Network; Robyn Ochs’s site; The Bi Writers Association; The Bisexual Resource Center (email brc@biresource.net)

CULTURAL Rochester Women’s Community Chorus 234-4441. (See Ongoing calendar).

Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus www.thergmc.org Open Arms Community Center Available for parties, events, meetings. 707 E. Main St. Parking. Accepting and welcoming of all.

271-8478.

DEAF SERVICES Deaf Rainbow Network of Rochester See Facebook.

Spectrum LGBTIQ & Straight Alliance RIT/NTID student group. <SpectrumComment@ groups.facebook.com ASADV Our mission is to provide support to the Deaf community and to Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing individuals, families, and children who are or have been victims/survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual abuse. A safe and supportive environment of advocacy, empowerment, community education, and training services. All staff are Deaf. All staff, advocates, and volunteers are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL). It is our vision that the various components of ASADV be Deaf-run and be advocates within institutionalized systems. We work cooperatively with various Deaf and hearing-based agencies. PO Box 20023, Rochester, NY 14602, www.asadv.org. 585/2862713

ELDERS Gay Alliance SAGE Rochester Many monthly get togethers, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 244-8640; SAGE@gayalliance.org. See page 31.

FAMILY Adoption Place at JFS Jewish Family Service of Rochester 441 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14607. You can adopt! Adoption Place at Jewish Family Service of Rochester provides adoption consultation, home studies and post-placement supervision to the entire community regardless of race, religion, ethnic background, sexual orientation, gender expression or gender identity. Laura Glasner, LCSW-R, Adoption Director, 585-461-0110; lglasner@jfsrochester. org; www.jfsrochester.org Rochester Gay Dads The meetup.com website is: https://www.meetup.com/RochesterGayDads/ Resource or starting point for gay dads in the area to reach out for support, questions about starting a family, etc.

Open Arms Community Center Open Arms Community Center available for parties, events and meetings; 707 East Main St. Plenty of parking. We are inclusive, actively accepting, welcoming of all people. 271-8478 openarmsmcc.org CNY Fertility Center Integrative Fertility Care. Support meetings, webinars, workshops. Information: cbriel@cnyfertility. com; www.cnyhealingarts.com Rochester Gay Moms’ Group Support group for lesbian mommies and wannabe mommies in Rochester and surrounding areas.

Subscribe: RochesterGayMoms-subscribe@ yahoogroups.com.

Catholic Charities Community Services 1099 Jay Street, Building J (585) 339-9800, www.ccsrochester.org . Offers: Families in Transition services for HIV positive parents with small children, short term/long term housing assistance, employment services, supportive case management, health education and behavioral health education and peer navigation for substance abuse linkages.

Lesbian & Gay Family Building Project Headquartered in Binghamton and with a presence throughout Upstate NY. Claudia Stallman, Project Director, 124 Front St., Binghamton, NY 13905; 607-724-4308; e-mail: LesGayFamBldg@ aol.com. Web: www.PrideAndJoyFamilies.org.

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) PFLAG’s threefold mission: supporting parents and family members in coming out process; educating the community; advocating on behalf of LGBT family members. rochesterepflag@gmail. com; 585-993-3297.

Adoptive Parent Support Group Monthly potluck lunches. For information, location, call Shari, 350-2529.

HIV/AIDS Free testing for HIV exposure is available from New York State Department of Health: call Rochester Area Regional Hotline at (585) 423-8081, or 1 800 962-5063. Deaf or hearing impaired people should call (585) 4238021 (TDD.) Available from NY Dept. of Health: HIV and STD resource testing site. Rapid testing in only 10 minutes. STD testing provided by Bullshead Clinic, 855 W. Main St., Rochester. Contact: Narissa @ Rochester hotline.

Volunteer Legal Services Project (585) 232-3051; www.vlsprochester.org. 1 West Main St., Suite 500 Rochester, NY 14614. Free legal services for low-income HIV positive clients.

No criminal cases. Appointments: scheduled at medical provider locations or at 295-5708.

Trillium Health Trillium Health is the leading provider of HIV/AIDS services in Rochester and the Finger Lakes. Onsite services include HIV testing and limited STD screenings, Primary and HIV Specialty Medical Care, Pharmacy, and many more. Satellite offices in Geneva and Bath. Contact Information: Website: www.trilliumhealthny.org. Main Office: 259 Monroe Ave., Rochester, NY 14607; Main Phone: 585-545-7200, Health Services After Hours: 585-258-3363; Case Management After Hours (Lifeline): 585-275-5151; Fax: 585-244-6456.

Finger Lakes Office: 605 W. Washington St., Geneva, NY 14456, 315-781-6303. Southern Tier Office: Buell St. Box 624, Bath, NY 14810 607776-9166. The Health Outreach Project: 416 Central Ave., Rochester, NY 14605; 585-454-5556.

Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley Referrals to physicians and service agencies.

(585) 244-8640; www.gayalliance.org.

Victory Alliance University of Rochester Medical Center. One of several research sites worldwide that comprise the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Rochester site conducts research vaccine studies sponsored

by National Institutes of Health (NIH). 585-7562329; www.vaccineunit.org.

Threshold At The Community Place, 145 Parsells Ave., third floor, 585-454-7530. Provides confidential HIV, STD testing and General Health Care, ages 12-25.

Sliding fee scale, no one denied, most insurances accepted. Mon., Wed., Fri. 9am-5pm; Tues., Thurs., 9am-7pm; Sat. 10am-2pm. www.ThresholdCenter.org Center for Health and Behavioral Training of Monroe County 853 W. Main St., Rochester 14611. Collaboration of Monroe County Health Department and U.R. Provides year-round training in prevention and management of STDs, HIV, TB and related issues, such as domestic violence and case management. (585)753-5382 v/tty.

Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syracuse Region 114 University Ave., Rochester, NY 14605; Tollfree Helpline: 1 866 600-6886. Offers confidential HIV testing and information. Ask about our sliding scale fees. No one is turned away for lack of ability to pay.

Rochester Area Task Force on AIDS A collection of agencies providing a multiplicity of resources and services to the upstate New York community. Their offices are located through the Finger Lakes Health Systems Agency, which also provides medical literature and newspaper clippings, as well as demographic and statistical data for use in developing health care services. (585) 461-3520.

The MOCHA Center of Rochester Our mission is to improve health and wellness in communities of color. Youth drop-in center, HIV testing, peer education, support groups, computer lab, referral services and more. 189 N. Water St., lower level. (585) 420-1400.

Monroe County Health Department at 855 W. Main St., offers testing and counseling for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.

(585) 753-5481. Hours: M-W 8:30-5:30; R: 8:30-11 am; F 7:30-2:30.

Strong Memorial Hospital provides a complete range of HIV medical care, including access to experimental treatment protocols, and HIV testing. Also provides individual and group psychotherapy. Training of health care professionals also available. Infectious Disease Clinic, (585) 275-0526. Department of Psychiatry, (585) 275-3379. AIDS Training Project, (585) 275-5693.

Planned Parenthood of Rochester and Genesee Valley Offers testing and information (585) 546 2595.

Rural HIV testing Anonymous and confidential, in Allegany, Livingston, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne or Yates Counties, call 1 800 962-5063.

Action Front Center (Action for a Better Community.) Provides HIV, STD, viral hepatitis prevention counseling, risk reduction counseling. Tailored programs available to incarcerated, ex-offender individuals.

Services for people living with HIV; case management, peer support groups, United Colors support group for MSM of color, educational groups, peer educator training and leadership development, multicultural, bilingual staff. 33 Chestnut St., 2nd floor, Rochester 14604. Office hours M-F 8:30 am-5 pm. 585-262-4330.

Anthony Jordan Health Center Jordan Health’s Prevention & Primary Care Department provides personalized care designed to address and treat the needs of people living with HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C; and services focusing on the prevention of those diseases.

Bilingual staff serves both English and Spanishspeaking patients. HIV and hepatitis C virus (HVC) rapid testing as well as HIV and HCV education and counseling. Walk-in testing at all Jordan Health Sites. Prevention & Primary Care Department hours are Mon – Fri 830a – 5p.

HIV Clinic hours are Tuesday and Friday 830a – 400p. HCV Clinic hours are Wednesday and Friday 100p – 500p. The Prevention & Primary Care Department has two sites: Anthony L. Jordan Health Center 82 Holland Street, Rochester 14605 585.423.2879, fax 585.423.2876 and Woodward Health Center, 480 Genesee Street, Rochester 14611, fax 585.295.6009 Jordan Health’s Prevention and Primary Care Department is now providing PrEP services. For more information please call 585.436.PREP (7737). We are accepting new PrEP patients at the following sites: Anthony L. Jordan Health Center, Woodward Health Center and Jordan Health at Community Place, 145 Parsells Ave. 585.436.3040 x1764 - 585.454.7530 CDC National STD and AIDS Hotline 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) 24 hours a day. TTY service: 1-888-232-6348. E-mail address: cdcinfo@cdc.gov.

Fair Housing Enforcement Project of Monroe County 585-325-2500; 1-800-669-9777. Deals with housing discrimination on basis of race, orientation, HIV status, etc.

Public Interest Law Office of Rochester 1 W. Main St., Suites 200 & 300. Free legal services to HIV positive persons, families. Spanish bilingual advocates available. All civil cases except divorce; no criminal cases. Ask to speak to someone in PILOR. 454-4060.

Westside Health Services Brown Square Health Center, 175 Lyell Ave. (254-6480); Woodward Health Center, 480 Genesee St. (436-3040). HIV/AIDS services, support, more.

McCree McCuller Wellness Center at Unity Health’s Connection Clinic (585) 368-3506, 89 Genesee St., Bishop Kearney Bldg., 3rd floor. Full range of services, regardless of ability to pay. Caring, confidential and convenient.

Geneva Community Health 601 W. Washington St., Geneva. Provides HIV testing, HIV specialty and primary care for residents of Ontario and surrounding counties. M, W, R, F 8am-8pm. 315-781-8448.

LGBT HEALTH Huther Doyle Healthcare, chemical dependency treatment.

585-325-5100; www.hutherdoyle.com Trillium Health See www.trilliumhealthny.org LGBT Healthy Living: Veterans Canandaigua VA, second and fourth Tuesdays, 10-11am, Building One, 2nd floor, room 245.

Matt Cokely 585-393-7115.

HCR Home Care We provide a full multidisciplinary team consisting of nursing, social work, physical, occupational, and speech therapies as well as home health aides who have completed the eight-hour cultural competency program provided by the Gay Alliance. More information: 585-272-1930 or visit us online at HCRhealth.com.

TRANSGENDER Trans Alliance of Greater Rochester (TAGR) Support/educational group for gender variant people and allies. Last Saturday, 3-5:30pm, Open Arms MCC, 707 E. Main St. Adult Families of Trans Youth (AFTY) First Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30pm, Open Arms MCC, 707 E. Main St. Trans Lifeline Hotline for transgender people experiencing crisis.

Staffed by transgender people for transgender people. (877) 565-8860. Additional info is available at www.translifeline.org.

TransParent Support group for parents of trans children. Third Tuesdays, 6:30-8pm LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. Empire Justice Center Milo Primeaux, Esq., Hanna S. Cohn Equal Justice Fellow, Empire Justice Center, LGBT Rights Project, Telesca Center for Justice, 1 West Main Street, Suite 200, Rochester, NY 14614. (585) 295-5721 Fax (585) 454-2518, mprimeaux@ empirejustice.org, www.empirejustice.org.

Volunteer Legal Services Project (585) 232-3051; www.vlsprochester.org.1 West Main St. Suite 500, Rochester, NY 14614. Free legal services for low-income clients seeking a name change. Other services for low-income clients include family law issues, bankruptcy, unemployment insurance hearings, wills and advance directive documents for clients with serious illnesses.

Gay Alliance Youth Gender Identity Support Group First Tuesdays 5:30-6:30 100 College Ave. Ages 13-18. 244-8640 Genesee Valley Gender Variants Thurs. 7-9pm, Equal Grounds, 750 South Ave. GVGenderVariants@yahoogroups.com Guys’ Night Out Trans* group, 1pm second Saturdays at Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. Transmen and those identifying with trans-masculine experience (including questioning individuals) welcome. Contact Adrian at abartholomeo@gmail.com.

WOMEN L.O.R.A Late Bloomers Group E-mail info@loragroup.org Website: www.loragroup.org; L.O.R.A (Lesbians of Rochester & Area) Highland Hospital Breast Imaging Center 500 Red Creek Drive, Rochester 14623; 585487-3341. Specializing in breast health, diagnostic breast imaging and treatment and mammography outreach and education.

Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester 1048 University Ave., Rochester NY 14607 585-473-8177; www.bccr.org; info@bccr.org Programs and services for those diagnosed with breast or GYN cancer. Programs include support and networking groups, Healing Arts classes, book club, writing workshop, monthly evening seminars and a group for those living with metastatic breast cancer. Comprehensive lending library. All programs and services FREE. Center for Community Health (585) 224-3050. Comprehensive breast cancer screening services for uninsured and underinsured women.

Elizabeth Wende Breast Clinic 170 Sawgrass Drive. 442-8432. Mammograms.

Self Help for Women with Breast or Ovarian Cancer (SHARE) Breast: 866-891-2392; Ovarian: 866-537-4273.

Willow Domestic Violence Center 232-7353; TTY 232-1741. Shelter (women only), counseling. Lesbians, gay men welcome.

Victim Resource Center of Wayne County Newark N.Y. Hotline 800-456-1172; office (315)331-1171; fax (315)331-1189.

Mary Magdalene House Women’s outreach center for HIV positive women and women at risk. 291 Lyell Ave. Open Mon-Fri. 6:30-9:30pm.

Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/ Syracuse Region 114 University Ave., Rochester, NY 14605; Toll-free Helpline: 1-866-600-6886. Planned Parenthood has led the way in providing high quality, affordable reproductive health care since 1916. All services are confidential. Accept most insurances; including Medicaid. You may qualify for low- to no-cost family planning services. When you make your appointment, ask about our sliding scale fees. No one turned away for lack of ability to pay.

Women’s Shelter YWCA, 175 N. Clinton Ave. 546-5820.

YOUTH Gay Alliance Youth Group Monthly Special Events 100 College Ave. 2448640; Ages 13-20. www.gayalliance.org. Check Facebook.com/GayAllianceYouth Gay Alliance Youth Gender Identity Social/Support Group First Tuesdays 5:30-6:30 LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave., Ages 13-18. 244-8640 Trevor Project The Trevor Project offers 24/7 Lifeline with trained counselors, 1-866-488-7386; Trevor Chat, instant messaging; TrevorSpace online where youth can talk to each other, and Trevor Text with text trained counselors for support and crisis intervention.

CNY Youth Group Bi-Polar Support.

Second Monday of every month. 315-428-9366 Teen Clinic at Planned Parenthood 114 University Avenue Rochester. Birth control, condoms, HIV testing, counseling. Weekly, Tuesdays 3-7pm..

FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

Ongoing Calendar DAILY

Free confidential walk-in HIV testing M/W 9am-5pm, T/Th 9am-7pm, F 9am-12:30pm Trillium Health 259 Monroe Ave. 585-545-7200 Gay Alliance Library & Archives 9am-5pm. Tues./Wed./Thurs. 6:30-8:30pm 100 College Ave. Walk-in HIV testing At all Anthony Jordan health center sites including 82 Holland St. (See Resources)

MONDAYS Women’s Coffee Social Equal Grounds Coffee House 750 South Ave. Monday evenings. 7 pm. Contact: Regina Altizer: reginaaltizer@gmail.com Crystal Meth Anonymous Meeting Every Monday 12-1pm. Huther Doyle, 360 East Ave., Rochester. Starting Monday Oct. 5.

Rochester Historical Bowling Society 7pm. Empire Lanes Born That Way Formerly 3rd Presbyterian LGBT Support Group.

First, 3rd Mondays, 7:30-9:30pm, 34 Meigs St. Carol, 482-3832 or Kaara, 654-7516.

Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Mondays, 6pm, George Eastman House parking lot. www.rochesterfrontrunners.org.

Steps Beyond Stems Crack Support Group, Mondays, 7-8pm, 289 Monroe Ave.

TUESDAYS Craft Night Every Other Tuesday, 6:30-8pm, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 244-8640.

Just Poets workshop Third Tuesdays thru May, 6:30-8:30pm, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 244-8640.

The Social Grind 10am-12noon and again 7:30-9pm at Equal Grounds, 750 South Ave. Email: DHutch457@aol. com for information Teen Clinic at Planned Parenthood 114 University Avenue Rochester. Birth control, condoms, HIV testing, counseling. Weekly, Tuesdays 3-7pm.

Adult Families of Trans Youth (AFTY) First Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30, Open Arms MCC Community Center, 707 E. Main St. TransParent Support group for parents of trans youth. Third Tuesdays, 6:30-8pm, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. LGBT Healthy Living Veterans support. 2nd, 4th Tuesdays, 10-11am Canandaigua VA, bldg. 9, room 8, Library conference room. 585 463-2731, 585 205-3360.

Testing Tuesdays at Trillium Health FREE HIV Testing for everyone, STI/STD testing FREE for women and MSM. Trillium Health, 259 Monroe Ave, 5-8 pm. 585-545-7200 Women’s Community Chorus Rehearsals each Tuesday, 6:30-9pm, Downtown United Pres. Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh Street. 2344441, www.therwcc.org Gay Alliance Youth Gender Identity Support Group 5:30-6:30pm, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. Ages 13-20. 244-8640.

SAGE Rochester 50+ Tuesdays and Thursdays, usually 10:30am at venues including LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 244-8640. (See page 31) SAGE Men’s Group 50+ 7pm, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 1st, 3rd Tuesdays. rtony13@aol.com

Lifetime Care LGBT Bereavement Support Group For loss associated with any type of relationship.

Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month from 5:30-7pm at Center for Compassion and Healing (3111 Winton Rd S). No fee. Please call 475-8800 for more details.

Gay Alliance Board of Directors Meets Third Wednesdays, 6pm, 100 College Ave., 244-8640 New Freedom New Happiness AA Gay meeting, 7pm, Unitarian Church, 220 Winton Rd. Men and women. Open.

COAP Come Out and Play Wednesday game nights. 7-10pm.

Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. coap.rochester@ gmail.com Rochester Rams General Meeting 2nd Wednesdays, 7:30pm, Bachelor Forum, 670 University Ave. www.rochesterrams.com Positive Warriors Wednesdays, 11:30am-12:30pm. Trillium Health, 259 Monroe Ave. Positive Divas Wednesdays, 11:30am-12:30pm. Trillium Health, 259 Monroe Ave. Frontrunners/Frontwalkers 6pm, Eastman House parking lot. www.rochesterfrontrunners.org.

Gay Alliance Library & Archives 6:30-8:30pm (Also Tues. and Thurs.) 100 College Ave. Empire Bears Every Wednesday. 6pm dinner at various venues.

See Empire Bears Inc. on Facebook.

THURSDAYS Safe Space Discussion Thursdays, 7-9 pm, at LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 244-8640.

Presbyterians for Lesbian and Gay Concerns 6:30pm, first Thursday. Ralph, 271-7649 Pride at Work & AFL CIO First Thursdays, 5:30pm. 1354 Buffalo Road, Rochester 14624, 426-0862.

Depression Bipolar Support Alliance Youth and young adults. LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. dbsa.monroecounty@gmail.com GLOB&L (Gays & Lesbians of Bausch & Lomb) Meets every third Thursday in Area 67 conference room at the Optic Center. Voice mail: 338-8977 Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus Downtown United Presbyterian Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh St. 7-9:30pm, 423-0650 NLIST Transgender Support Group 5-6:15pm, Trillium Health. Must pre-register.

LORA Late Bloomers Group 4th/Last Thursday of the month. Coming out group for lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women of all ages and backgrounds! Last Thursday of each month in a safe private location. For more info visit: www.loragroup.org or contact Jessica Cohen at LGBTHealth@trilliumhealth.org or email us at info@loragroup.org Out & Equal Second Thursdays Social/business networking, 5:30-7:30pm.

Changing venues. E-mail: fingerlakes@outandequal.org Genesee Valley Gender Variants 7-9pm, Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. GV GenderVariants@yahoogroups.com SAGE Rochester 50+ Tuesdays and Thursdays, usually 10:30am at venues including LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave, 244-8640. (See page 31)

FRIDAYS LGBT AA meeting Fridays, 7:30-8:30pm, Closed meeting. Emmanuel Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. Gay Alliance Youth Monthly Special Event, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave., 244-8640; Ages 13-20. youth@gayalliance.org. Check Facebook.com/ GayAllianceYouth GLBTQI Motorcycle Group Second Fridays, 5:30pm, Various locations.

RochesterGLBTIQbikers@yahoo.com; 467-6456; bmdaniels@frontiernet.net.

Boyz Night Out Drag king revue. First Fridays, The Firehouse Saloon, 814 S. Clinton Ave. LORA GaYmes Night Meets 4th Friday of the Month, 7-10pm, Equal Grounds Coffee House, 750 South Ave. Rochester. Contact Person: Christine O’Reilly. Email: irishfemmerochester@yahoo.com. Phone: 585.943.1320. More Info: www.loragroup.org.

Events: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ L.O.R.A.14464/

SATURDAYS The Repair Shop AA meeting at the LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 5:30-6:30 pm, Saturdays. 2448640.

Rochester Rams Bar Night Third Saturdays, 8pm-2am, Bachelor Forum, 670 University Ave. 271-6930 Sapphic Singles – Professional Women’s Group http://www.meetup.com/Sapphic-Singles-Rochester/. Contact: Patty: Email: pattyrdn11@gmail. com. Phone: 585.223.6743. 3rd Saturday of each month. Monthly Dinner Socials for single professional women at various locations in and around Rochester NY area! Join us!

Trans Alliance of Greater Rochester Support/educational group for gender-variant people, allies. Last Saturdays, 3-5:30pm, Open Arms MCC, 707 E. Main St. Frontrunners/Frontwalkers 9am, George Eastman House parking lot.www. rochesterfrontrunners.org.

Guys Night Out GNO, social group for transmen, now meets on the second Saturday of the month, @ 1pm @ Equal Grounds, 750 South Ave. Saturday Night Special Gay AA 7pm, Unitarian Church, 220 Winton Rd., S. Men and women. Open meeting.

Sophia’s Supper Club First, third Saturdays, 25 Bernie Lane, 6:30 pm.

Men’s Cooking Group Third, fourth Saturdays. 585-355-7664; mcgofrochester@aol.com.

SUNDAYS Campy Classic Cinema Free movies and popcorn, second Sundays at 2 pm, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. “Celebrating LGBTQ culture through film”. An Inqueery event. For movie line-up call 244-8640.

PFLAG (Parents Families & Friends of Lesbians And Gays) 585 993-3297; rochesterpflag@gmail. com.

Dignity-Integrity 1st Sunday: 5pm Episcopal Eucharist with music; 2nd Sunday: 5pm Roman Catholic Liturgy of the Word with music; 3rd Sunday: 5pm Episcopal Eucharist (quiet); 4th Sunday: 5pm Prayers to start the week, followed by potluck supper.

Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church 707 E. Main St., Services at: 10:30am. 271-8478.

Gay Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous St. Luke’s/St. Simon Cyrene Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. 8pm, 232-6720, Weekly.

Closed meeting ■

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ROCHESTER AA/NA MEETINGS

Every week there are three regularly scheduled GLBTI AA and two inclusive NA meetings in Rochester.

TUESDAYS Narcotics Anonymous 6-7:30pm. AIDS and Recovery 1124 Culver Road (Covenant United Methodist Church) This is an NA meeting that is open to all addicts who have a desire to stop using. Although it is not specifically a gay-oriented meeting, it is welcoming to people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as to anyone who is affected by HIV and AIDS.

FRIDAYS LGBT 7:30pm. Immanuel Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. • Open meeting • Handicapped accessible This is a round-robin discussion meeting. If you are shy about meeting people or speaking up in a group, you will find this meeting particularly warm and inviting because everyone gets their turn to speak (or pass). As a result, this meeting often runs long, so plan on more than the usual hour.

SATURDAYS The Repair Shop AA meeting at the LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 5:30-6:30pm, Saturdays. 244-8640.

Saturday Night Special 7pm. First Unitarian Church, 220 S. Winton Rd. Bus riders: The #18 University Ave. bus does not go by the church on weekend evenings. Take the #1 Park Ave. bus to the corner of East and Winton, then walk five minutes south (uphill) on Winton.

• Open meeting, all are welcome, “straight friendly” • Mixed men and women • Handicapped accessible, take elevator to basement Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by open discussion.

SUNDAYS Step in the Right Direction 7:30-9pm. 1275 Spencerport Road (Trinity Alliance Church) This is an NA meeting that is open to all addicts who have a desire to stop using.

Although it is not specifically a gay-oriented meeting, it is welcoming to people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Each week features a reading from NA literature, followed by discussion.

Rochester Gay Men 8pm. St. Luke/St. Simon’s Episcopal Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh Street. Bus riders use the Fitzhugh Street stop on Main Street at the County Office Building and walk south one block.

• Closed meeting, restricted to alcoholics and addicts • Men’s meeting • NOT handicapped accessible Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by open discussion. ■

WEDNESDAYS Identity Group LGBT identified individuals who have a developmental disability diagnosis. The group meets Wednesdays 3-4 pm at ARC Health Services (2060 Brighton-Henrietta Townline Rd. 14623).

The goal is to provide a safe space to discuss identity issues, share personal experiences and increase self-esteem. Facilitated by Delaina Fico.

LMSW. Contact Delaina Fico at dfico@arcmonroe.org or 585-271-0661 ext. 1552.

Line Dancing at 140 Alex Weekly on Wednesday, 7– 9pm. 140 Alex Bar & Grill, 140 Alexander St. Line dancing lessons upstairs. All types of music, relaxed group, beginners welcome! $2 a person suggested donation.

LORA Knitting Group 6pm, Equal Grounds Coffee House, 750 South Ave. L.O.R.A. Knitting group meets the 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month from Equal Grounds Coffee House. For more info visit www.loragroup. org or Contact Kerry Cater: dressyfemme@aol.com or email us at info@loragroup.org

GAY ALLIANCE LIBRARY &

ARCHIVES

100 College Avenue, 9am-5pm and on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, 6:30-8:30pm.

Check out our ten thousand-volume library, along with the Bohnett Cyber Center.

Contact us: library@gayalliance.org or at 585-244-8640.

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017

February 2017 WEDNESDAY 1

Imbolc, Candlemas Eve. Ancient Celtic sacred fire feast celebrating the return of light. Tree: Rowan.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Support Group. Effective Communication. Sponsored by Alzheimer’s Association, Lifespan and the Gay Alliance Inqueery program. 5:30-6:30 pm, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 244-8640.

Empire Bears dinner at Yummy Hot Pot, 6 pm.

Naked Boys Singing! Vaudevillestyle show at Downstairs Cabaret until Feb. 14. Tickets $30-$35.

FRIDAY 3

Gallery Q First Friday opening.

“Margot Fass: Things Which Are Not Seen”. Reception from 6-9 pm; artist’s talk at 7 pm at Gallery Q, 100 College Ave.

SATURDAY 4

SAGE on the Road. 11 am, The Sunrise Restaurant, Dansville – “new outreach” exploratory meeting. Looking for local folks interested in bringing social programs to the Southern Tier. RSVP to annet@gayalliance.org 585-244-8640 x23 Queer as Folk. Saturdays at 3 pm; screenings of the entire seasons of Queer as Folk, starting with Season 1. LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. Popcorn and pop. Brash humor and genuine emotion make up this original series revolving around the lives, loves, ambitions, careers and friendships of a group of gay men and women living on Liberty Avenue in contemporary Pittsburgh, Pa. An unapologetic look at modern, urban gay and lesbian lives while addressing the most critical health and political issues affecting the community.

SUNDAY 5

Dignity Integrity. Episcopal Mass/ Healing Service, with music. 5 pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St.

WEDNESDAY 8

Empire Bears dinner at Peppermints on Rte. 15 south, 6 pm.

SATURDAY 11

Kids Messy Art. InQueery. LGBTQ Resource Center 1-2:30 pm. Dress for mess and artistic success! Inspire your child’s creativity and help build fine motor skills though this NEW art class.

Your child can smear, squeeze, splatter and otherwise explore artistic possibilities using a variety of materials including paints, doughs, crayons, chalk, and collage. Get ready for a messy good time! All ages welcomed!

Empire Bears Valentine’s potluck at LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 6 pm – bring dish to pass.

SAGE on the Road: 7 pm Traveling Pot Luck Valentines Party at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6188 Main Road, Stafford NY 14143. Appetizers & program at 4 pm, Dinner at 5 pm. Bring a dish to pass & $3 donation. Carpool from Rochester: annet@gayalliance.org or 585 2448640x23

SUNDAY 12

Classic Campy Cinema and euchre social InQueery. LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. Chill at the Gay Alliance and get campy with our monthly classic LGBTQ films. Our February Film is “Little Shop of Horrors” staring Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia. 2-4:30 pm.

Dignity Integrity. Roman Catholic Liturgy of the Word, with music. 5 pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St.

Classifieds Classified ads are $5 for the first 30 words; each additional 10 words is another $1. We do not bill for classifieds, so please send or bring ad and payment to: The Empty Closet, 100 College Ave., Rochester, NY 14607.

Paying by check: checks must be made out to Gay Alliance. The deadline is the 15th of the month, for the following month’s issue. We cannot accept ads over the phone. Pay when you place your ad. We will accept only ads accompanied by name and phone number. Neither will be published, but we must be able to confirm placement.

The Empty Closet is not responsible for financial loss or physical injury that may result from any contact with an advertiser. Advertisers must use their own box number, voice mail, e-mail or phone number. No personal home addresses or names allowed. Classified ads are not published on The Empty Closet page of our website. However, each issue of the paper is reproduced online in its entirety at ww.gayalliance.org

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Children’s Ministry thriving at Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church for toddlers to ‘tweens. Join us for vibrant, inclusive, progressive worship on Sundays at 10:30 am, 707 E. Main St. info@openarmsmcc.org; (585) 271-8478.

SERVICES

Rochester’s Best Man to Man Rubdown. Unwind with this degreed, employed, fit, friendly, healthy, Italian GWM. Middle aged, 5’8”, 165 lbs., 32” waist, nonsmoker, d & d free, HIV negative. My 10-plus years experience guarantees your relaxation and satisfaction.

Hotel visit, in call in my home or out call in your residence. Reasonable rates. Dis-

cretion appreciated and practiced. Don’t delay, call me today at 585-773-2410 (cell) or 585-235-6688 (home).

Sacred, loving interfaith presence to mark your life’s special days and help you to navigate your way. Weddings, memorials, baby blessings, house blessings, spiritual counseling. Reverend Gaioma Bair (585)494-1795.

Martin Ippolito master electrician.

Electrical work, telephone jacks, cable TV, burglar alarm systems, paddle fans.

585-266-6337.

Wedding Space and clergy services available. Celebrate your special day at Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church, 707 E. Main St. info@ openarmsmcc.org (585) 271-8478.

Open Arms MCC TRANSformative Ministry is now in its second year; Feb. 12 meeting will be 12-1:30 pm, 107 E. Main St.

WEDNESDAY 15

Empty Closet deadline for March issue. 244-9030; susanj@gayalliance.org.

Empire Bears dinner at Carabba’s, 6 pm.

THURSDAY 16

PRIDE Float Building Workshop InQueery. LGBTQ Resource Center.

6:30-8 pm. Want to learn how to build a float that will make heads turn and bring positive attention to your business or organization? Gay Alliance is hosting its building workshop to help parade participants make the most out of their celebration. Get an early start on your Pride Parade Float. How to find vehicles, build a frame. Work with homemade and purchased materials. All are welcomed!

SATURDAY 18

Pot Luck & Bingo Bash. All are welcome, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. $3 donation toward token prizes. 5-8 pm.

SUNDAY 19

Dignity Integrity. Quiet Episcopal Mass. 5 pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. One Marvelous Evening… Gay Alliance’s Valentine Dance, 7 pm, 140 Alex Bar & Grill. $10 admission. Come as your favorite Marvel-DC superhero/heroine. Food, music by DJ Solidbear, community. $10 admission.

TUESDAY 21

Just Poets first writing workshop, 6:30-8:30 pm, LGBTQ Resource Center, 100 College Ave. 244-8640. Workshops on third Tuesdays through May.

WEDNESDAY 22

First Tai Chi class for Arthritis Inqueery -- at LGBTQ Resource Center. Tai Chi combines slow moving with deep breathing. It increases strength, bal-

ance and posture. Prevents falls, improves mind body and spirit. Reduces stress and increases relaxation. Presented by Lifespan. This program is offered as part of the NYS Department of Health. Will be held every Weds. and Fri., 2:30-3:30 pm.

Empire Bears dinner at Winfield Grill, 6 pm.

THURSDAY 23

OUT at Geva. Pre-show reception for LGBTQ community, before performance of “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”. 6 pm. Mention “Out at Geva” when buying your tickets!

FRIDAY 24

SAGE Fabulous Fish Fry, at Golden Fox Restaurant, 1115 Culver Road 14609. Please RSVP by Feb. 21 to Audet at 585-287-2958 or email aprice002@aol.com.

SATURDAY 25

Dignity Integrity Winter Cabin Party. 5-9 pm. Bring munchie or Mardi Gras-themed dish to pass, a game and friends. We’ll provide paper goods, beverages and a roaring fire. Meet at 5 pm, eat at 6 pm play games or chat with friends new and old until 9 pm. Call Hotline for location and directions at 585-234-5092 or check website at www.di-rochester.org/.

SUNDAY 26

Dignity Integrity. Prayers to start the Week followed by potluck “Pie Party”. 5 pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St.

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FEBRUARY 2017 • NUMBER 508 • THE GAY ALLIANCE • THE EMPTY CLOSET

The Empty Closet is published by the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley 100 College Avenue Rochester, New York 14607 © 2017, All rights reserved.

Editor-in-Chief: Susan Jordan Graphic Design: Jim Anderson Ad Sales: Jennie Bowker, jennieb@gayalliance.org Advertising policy: The Empty Closet does not print advertisements that contain nude drawings or photographs, nor does it print advertising that states that the person pictured in the ad is for sale, or that you will “get” that particular person if you patronize the establishment advertised. Advertisements that are explicitly racist, sexist, ageist, ableist or homophobic will be refused; advertisements from organizations that are sexist, racist, ageist, ableist or anti-gay will also be refused.

All political advertisements must contain information about who placed them and a method of contact. Additionally, The Empty Closet does not print negative or “attack” advertisements, whether they relate to a product or politics and no matter in whose interest the ad is being produced. A negative advertisement is defined as one that focuses upon a rival product, or in the political area, a rival election candidate or party, in order to point out supposed flaws and to persuade the public not to buy it (or vote for him or her). The Empty Closet maintains, within legal boundaries, neutrality regarding products, political candidates and parties. However, “attack” ads that fail to provide undisputable evidence that the information in the ad is true do not further in any way the objectives and policies of the Gay Alliance or The Empty Closet, including the primary tenet that The Empty Closet’s purpose is to inform the Rochester gay community and to provide an impartial forum for ideas.

Submissions: For publication, submit news items, ads, photos, letters, stories, poetry, ads, photographs or art by mail or in person to The Empty Closet office by the 15th of the month. Design services for non-camera ready ads are available for a fee.

244-9030, susanj@gayalliance.org Publication Information: The Empty Closet is published 11 times a year (December and January combined) by The Empty Closet Press for the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley, Inc. Approximately 5000 copies of each issue are distributed during the first week of the month, some by mail in a plain sealed envelope. The publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles is not an indication of the sexual or affectional orientation of that person or the members of that organization. For further information, please write to The Empty Closet, 100 College Avenue, Rochester NY. 14605, call (585) 244-9030 or e-mail emptycloset@gagv.us.

The Empty Closet is the official publication of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley, Inc., as stated in the bylaws of that organization. Its purpose is to inform the Rochester gay community about local and national gay-related news and events; to provide a forum for ideas and creative work from the local gay community; to help promote leadership within the community, and to be a part of a national network of lesbian and gay publications that exchange ideas and seek to educate.

Part of our purpose is to maintain a middle position with respect to the entire community. We must be careful to present all viewpoints in a way that takes into consideration the views of all – women, men, people of color, young and old, and those from various walks of life.

The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. The Empty Closet shall not be liable for any loss or expense that results from the publication (whether correctly or incorrectly) or omission of an ad.

In the event of non-payment, your account may be assigned to a collection agency or an attorney, and will be liable for the charges paid by us to such collection agency or attorney.

Letters to the editor: The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. We will print letters at the editor’s discretion and on a space available basis. Only one letter by the same writer in a six-month period is allowed. We will not print personal attacks on individuals, nor will we be a forum for ongoing disputes between individuals. We reserve the right to edit for space and clarity. We will print anonymous letters if the name and phone number are provided to the Editor; confidentiality will be respected. Submissions are due by the 15th of the month at: The Empty Closet, 100 College Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607; e-mail: susanj@gayalliance.org. The online edition of EC is available at www. gayalliance.org.

Bed & Breakfast

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THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE • NUMBER 508 • FEBRUARY 2017