Stonewall Pride Festival & Parade Pride Guide 2023

Pride Through The Years

2022

Photos: Hotspots Archives

Grand Marshalls

By Scott Holland

I am very excited that our two Grand Marshalls for the Stonewall Parade this year are Real Housewives of Miami star Julia Lemigova and one of our local community heroes Ederick Johnson. Below I have interviewed them, so you get to know a little bit more about these two fabulous human beings.

Julia Lemigova is a Russian-born TV personality, actor, fashion model and former Miss USSR currently starring on the reprise of The Real Housewives of Miami. She represented the Soviet Union at the Miss Universe 1991 pageant, where she placed second runnerup. Julia moved to Western Europe after being crowned Miss USSR and relocated to Paris, where she opened her first well-being center, Joiya Spa, in 2003, and launched a skincare and spa line, Russie Blanche, in 2009. As a successful international fashion model, Julia has worked with high-end quality brands travelling all over the world for over a decade. Her modelling career ran from 1991 to 2005 until the birth of her first child. Julia has also had a range of television roles, mostly in the UK. Julia made history as the first openly LGBTQIA+ housewife to be a part of the Bravo franchise and is married to tennis royalty Martina Navratilova.

Julia Lemigova

star of the “Real Housewives of Miami”

How did your second season of “Miami Housewives” treat you?

I love being a part of the Housewives sisterhood. Unfortunately, this most recent season was a little tough because we had to watch a family fall apart. But I am really proud of the way we were able to come together and support Lisa. Our show is about real friends dealing with real life issues and I believe that is what resonates with people.

How have you adapted to being an empty nester?

My life is always evolving! I had Vika graduating college and Emma graduating high school this month. Even though my girls may not be home full-time, being a mother never stops.

How are your animals, and are there any new ones?

Just like my life, the farm is in constant evolution. We just welcomed 3 new baby goats this spring.

How is your wife Martina recovering from cancer?

I am so proud of my champion! She amazes me every day! Right now, we are still putting all of our energy into Martina and her health. We are thrilled she is back working and has resumed doing several of the things she loves.

How has your relationship changed, if at all?

Martina's resilience and commitment to positivity has inspired me to take on new challenges and not let fear dictate our lives. Describe yourself in 3 words? Mother, wife, animal-lover.

What do you do for fun?

I like to be on my farm with my animals. I love caring for other living things and the routine of my farm relaxes me.

Is there something about you we would be surprised to know?

I can throw a pretty-mean punch in the boxing ring.

We are so excited to have you as one of our Grand Marshalls of Stonewall Pride. What made you want to do this?

I can't sit silently as our community is routinely coming under attack in Florida. I want LGBTQ+ people across our state to know they have a voice and an advocate in me, and what a better way to show my

support than standing strong alongside my brothers and sisters at Wilton Manors Pride.

What does Pride mean to you?

Pride is both a call to action, and the ability to be me comfortably, and unapologetically me. Growing up in Russia, I never thought I would have the chance to openly march in the streets as a proud LGBT woman.

What does the future hold for you?

I want to be a source of light and of strength for my wife, my daughters and my community. And of course, I'll continue keeping people updated with my animals on the farm on my Instagram page, @JuliaLemigova.

“I want LGBTQ people across our state to know they have a voice and an advocate in me...”

Eric E. Johnson

Being of service to your community is no easy task. In many cases it's long hours, reduced pay, and limited resources so it goes without saying that it takes a special group of individuals to take on the task. Ederick E. Johnson has taken on that task for over a decade. It's been a journey for Mr. Johnson who started out at the Pride Center's KiKi Project, facilitating community hosted events with the purpose of educating on HIV/AIDS and

STIs to now working with Yale University of Nursing as an Interventionist Facilitator. There is no sight out of bounds for this champion of the community. With a grin plastered on his face and lively spirit, he will continue to work hard, laugh and love as he serves his community proudly.

What’s your claim-to-fame?

I would have to say my claim to fame is mixture of my hilarious facebook posts

and the Kiki Project. As you know the Kiki Project was the only program for Black Same Gender Loving Men of South Florida. This was the vision of one of my mentors

Lorenzo Robertson.

Where did you grow up?

I am From Bradenton, Florida (Palmetto) Home of Tropicana and Ederick Johnson.

How long have you lived in South Florida?

I’ve been in South Florida for 12 years now.

Why did you move here?

I moved here right after High School. My dream was to always attend Florida A&M University, however because of poor decisions that I made in my High School career that changed immediately. In March of 2011, the wife of the Late Rev. Dr. Mack King Carter, Patricia Carter approached my grandmother Terry Johnson, at the Progressive M&E Baptist State Convention and told her I need to come to Florida Memorial to attend College. When I moved here, I didn't know a soul. Moved here with $1600 that was to last me until June of 2012. And from there, I have created a legacy for myself here, from the Church community to the Gay scene I have created relationships.

What do you like most about living here?

It's more progressive than where I am from. The fact that we are having a Pride Parade is major. If I wanted to attend pride, I had to travel to St. Pete or Tampa just to congregate.

Where do you hang out in South Florida?

My house LOL. But my favorite hangout spot is on Sundays at my Gay mom's house, Professor Stephen English. On Sundays he creates a safe space and atmosphere for a few of us to come and get away from the troubles that we face day to day, and just eat, laugh, and listen to good music.

“...I have created a legacy for myself here, from the Church community to the Gay scene I have created relationships.”

What’s your favorite venue or restaurant in South Florida?

My favorite restaurant is Picadilly.

What’s your current state-of-mind? My mind is currently at Peace

What are you an expert at? Southern Cooking, I make a mean pound cake and smothered turkey wings.

What do you want to live long enough to see?

That everything God has planned for me comes to pass.

What’s something that you learned in life only when you got older? It's better to have four quarters then one hundred pennies.

What did you learn from your parents? What I learned from my mother, my Sweetie pie Monica McKinney, is to have a compassionate heart, even for those who don't care for you.

How do you enjoy spending your time? Reading, Cooking, Playing the Piano, and watching “In The Heat of the Night.”

What celebrity do you have a crush on?

Omari Hardwick

Who do you admire?

My Great Aunt Bert, how she raised her younger siblings and her own children after the sudden death of her mom in 1962. She then went on to raise her sibling's kids and help with their kids. She is an amazing woman who has a slick mouth lol.

If you could bring one person back from the dead, who would it be?

Martin Luther King

What would your last meal be?

Chitterlings/ Hog Maws, Greens, White Rice, Cornbread, Fried Chicken, and Pound Cake.

What would your autobiography be called?

What's on your bucket list?

To get married, so some man's mama can say…. “that's a good man Savanna.”

How excited are you to be one of the Grand Marshalls of Stonewall Pride?

I am super excited this is truly an honor.

For more on Ederick, follow him on Facebook.com/Ederickenricojohnson.

54 Years Later:

EQUALITY

the fight for

WHEN NEW YORK POLICE RAIDED THE STONEWALL INN (AGAIN) AND ATTEMPTED TO ARREST ALL ITS PATRONS ON A FATEFUL DAY IN 1969, THE PATRONS OF THAT GAY BAR IN NEW YORK CITY'S WEST VILLAGE FOUGHT BACK. THE RIOT THAT ENSUED GAVE BIRTH TO THE LGBTQ+ STRUGGLE FOR EQUALITY WHICH CONTINUES TO THIS DAY 52 YEARS LATER.

HERE ARE HIGHLIGHTS OF KEY MOMENTS IN LGBTQ+ HISTORY.

The Stonewall Riots happened on June 27 and began the LGBT rights movement as we know it today. Only two states, Illinois and Connecticut, had decriminalized homosexuality by 1969. For those people in the rest of the country, being caught in police raids at gay meeting places, such as bars, meant that you would be arrested and your name and address would be printed in the newspaper. From there, these people would usually be fired from their jobs and shunned by their families. Just five years before, Senator Charley Johns spearheaded a witch hunt against gays in Florida's public universities: over 300 people were either fired from their jobs or kicked out of school.

1969 - 2022 by: Mike Halterman, Peter Jackson and Katina Caraganis 2023 by: Al Ferguson, Lead Anchor, Queer News Tonight

The American Psychiatric Association removes homosexuality from its list of mental illnesses. At this time, Gallup reports that only 12% believe that homosexuality is something people are born with. That number would rise to 42% by 2014. The largest attack against gay people in United States history occurred when an arsonist set the Upstairs Lounge, a gay bar in New Orleans, on fire. 32 people died. News coverage was scant, and what coverage did appear was not reported in an unbiased manner.

Dade County, Florida becomes the first county in Florida to pass an antidiscrimination ordinance that specifically protects gay people. Anita Bryant, a singer and spokeswoman for Florida Orange Juice, leads the charge to have the ordinance repealed. Also, for a time, she succeeded in banning openly gay teachers from Florida public schools, and she also led a movement to ban adoption by gay couples. Her political activism was a success but a boycott of Florida Orange Juice, led heavily by gays, caused her to lose her promotional contract with the brand. Also in 1977, Harvey Milk makes history by becoming the first openly gay elected official in the country, and he takes his seat on San Francisco's Board of Supervisors. His assassination the next year sends shockwaves throughout the gay community nationwide.

Over 100,000 people attend the first March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. By this time, while being openly gay still carried a large stigma in many parts of the country, the gay rights movement has successfully moved from “coming out” and “fitting in” to working to fix discrimination and hostility against gay people by homophobes.

AIDS (then called GRID) is first

1981

AIDS (then called GRID) is first noticed among gay men in New York City and quickly becomes a national health issue. The Gay Men's Health Crisis is founded in New York City. The mainstream media begins to cover AIDS but it isn't until actor Rock Hudson's death four years later that the topic becomes one of premier national importance. President Ronald Reagan famously did not utter the words “HIV” or “AIDS” until the seventh year of his eight years in the White House.

19 19

86 87

Bowers v. Hardwick is decided by the Supreme Court, which rules that there is no constitutional right to sodomy. It upholds Georgia's antisodomy law as well as the laws across many other states.

Coverage of gay issues increases in local media but national news outlets still ignore many gay-related stories. The Second March on Washington is held this year, with 200,000 people in attendance, and it is ignored by Time, Newsweek and U.S. News and World Report.

1994 93 90

President George Bush signs the Hate Crimes Statistics Act into law, mandating the federal government to keep track of crimes that relate to the victim's sexual orientation. This year many states pass laws that call for stronger sentences for antigay crimes, such as California and Connecticut. Seven states would pass gay rights legislation by 1992.

The Third March on Washington draws over a million participants, including Tipper Gore, wife of Vice-President Al Gore. The majority of national media outlets follow the march for the first time. Also this year, a movie about the AIDS crisis and its impact on a man and his loved ones, Philadelphia, is released in theaters. The lead actor, Tom Hanks, would win an Oscar for his performance.

Hawaii becomes the first of many states to specifically write into their constitution that marriage should be between a man and a woman, after gay couples tried unsuccessfully to apply for marriage licenses there.

President Bill Clinton signs the Defense of Marriage Act, which would bar states from having to recognize same-sex marriages in other states and also would bar married gay couples from receiving federal benefits like straight couples receive. The Supreme Court, in Romer v. Evans, overturned Colorado's voter-approved amendment that would have banned gay rights ordinances locally or statewide. San Francisco opens the nation's first domestic partnership registry for gay couples.

Ellen DeGeneres comes out on her ABC sitcom Ellen. A number of television stations drop her show, and her coming out is heavily discussed in the press. Originally, coming out hurt Ellen, and her profile was visibly reduced in popular culture for a few years, but she earned herself a decisive comeback when her talk show premiered in 2003 to rave reviews.

The death of Matthew Shepard outside Laramie, Wyoming causes the country to discuss anti-gay harassment and violence for the first time. A renewed push for hate crime legislation begins.

Vermont becomes the first state to legalize civil unions, which has lots of the same rights as a marriage, but not all rights. The topic of same-sex marriage is discussed as a viable option nationwide for the first time.

The Supreme Court knocks down Texas's anti-sodomy law in the case of Lawrence v. Texas. Thirteen other states' sodomy laws are similarly invalidated, including Florida's. Homosexuality is decriminalized for the first

time in Florida, with the age of consent set at 18, equal to that of straight people. Massachusetts becomes the first state to legalize gay marriage. The California Supreme Court knocks down the state's ban on gay marriage, and gay couples begin to wed. A voter initiative, Proposition 8, passes later that year, halting marriages in the state. Marriages would be reinstated in California for gay couples in 2013.

The Defense of Marriage Act is found unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in the case of United States v. Windsor. Gay marriage is now legal in a handful of states and those couples will be allowed to file for federal benefits.

Transgender rights and issues are being discussed by more people now than ever before. Laverne Cox makes history by becoming the first transgender woman to grace the cover of Time.

protections for transgender students in our nations' schools. President Trump issues a ban on transgender service members from serving in any capacity in the U.S. military. The DACA program, which protected an estimated 36,000 LGBTQ DREAMers, from detention and deportation, comes to an end. A policy providing non-discrimination protections for transgender people in the workplace under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is reversed. The Affordable Care Act's birth control benefit now allows for religious exemptions to deny health care to women, trans men, and gender nonconforming people who rely on the nocopay contraception benefit. The Department of Justice announces taxpayer-funded federal agencies, government employees, and government contractors can legally discriminate against LGBTQ employees as long as they cite a religious belief as the reason for doing it.

In the case of Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court finds that the states' bans on gay marriage are unconstitutional, and that marriage equality shall be the law of the land. By the time the court case was decided, thirty-six states had already legalized marriage equality, either through legislation or court cases. Couples in fourteen states began to wed on June 26.

Minutes after President Donald Trump was sworn into office, all mention of the LGBTQ community is erased from the White House, Department of State, and Department of Labor websites. He goes on to rescind Title IX

The Department of Health and Human Services creates a new department that shields healthcare workers who refuse to treat LGBTQ patients or those living with HIV by calming moral or religious objections. Protections for incarcerated transgender people are rolled back. The state department announces that samesex, unmarried partners of United Nations partners employees will not be granted Visas to stay in the U.S., forcing them to either marry in the U.S. and risk repercussions or separate from their partner. Brett Kavanaugh is nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court. Kavanaugh has an extremely conservative record. In a brie to the U.S. Supreme Court, the Department of Justice writes that it is legal to discriminate against transgender employees and that banning sex discrimination under Title VII does not extend to transgender workers.

In its Fiscal Year Budget for 2020, the Trump Administration announces new plans to cut $250 million from the Global Fund, slash $1.5 billion from PEPFAR, and “limit future spending” on Medicaid –three components in the ongoing fight against HIV and AIDS. President Trump announces a new policy is announced stating that transgender Americans would no longer be guarantees protections under the Affordable Care Act, potentially harming 1.5 million trans Americans. A report finds that the Trump Administration made attempts to prevent the Pride flag from flying on a flagpole at the Stonewall National Museum because the monument is federal land. Instead, the administration donates a flagpole to the state of New York. For the third year in a row, President Trump omits any mention of the LGBTQ community in his presidential proclamation recognizing Dec. 1 as World AIDS Day. Trump's ban on transgender people serving in the military goes into effect.

U.S. Navy grants waiver to transgender naval officer, allowing her to remain in uniform. It's the first waiver granted since the administration began enforcing its surprise ban against transgender service members. The government is expected to file its response to the suit filed by the naval officer in federal court. Housing and Urban Development announces new rule allowing single-sex homeless shelters to turn away transgender people, despite acknowledging there is no evidence supporting transgender residents pose a risk to cisgender residents. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos vows to withhold federal funds from Connecticut school districts that participate in athletic confere nce allowing transgender athletes to compete consistent with their gender identity. President Trump nominates Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court. Barrett has stated views against marriage equality and was vetted by the Federalist Society, which has argued against every LGBTQ policy proposal. She is ultimately appointed.

The Supreme Court issues a landmark decision in Bostock v. Clayton County, Georgia, which established that LGBTQ people are protected from employment discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

President Joe Biden issues an executive order extending existing federal non-discrimination protections from LGBTQ people. President Trump's ban on diversity training on race and sex that had implications on trainings for sexual orientation and gender identity is revoked. The ban on transgender people joining and serving in the military is revoked almost immediately after President Biden takes offi ce.

The Mexico City Policy, a decades-old policy barring international nonprofits from receiving U.S. funding if they provide abortion counseling or referrals, is overturned.

Pete Buttigieg is confirmed as the next transportation secretary, becoming the first openly LGBTQ cabinet member confirmed by the full Senate. Implementation of a Trump-era rule under the Department of Health and Human Services that would have permitted discrimination against LGBTQ people, religious minorities and women in programs related to foster care, adoption, HIV and STI prevention, youth homelessness, refugee resettlement, elder care programs and more is halted. The Fair Housing Act is enforced to protect LGBTQ people. President Biden voices his support of the Equality Act, which would create protections for LGBTQ people in education, health care and more. The Department of Veterans Affairs agrees to review policies to ensure they are inclusive of all gender identities and gender expressions. The Equal Credit Opportunity Act is enacted to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Dr. Rachel Levine is confirmed as the Assistant Secretary for Health in the Department of Health and Human Services, becoming the first-ever openly transgender official confirmed by the Senate. The Department of Housing & Urban Development reinstates the Affirmative Furthering Fair Housing rule and the disparate impact role, both gutted under the Trump administration. Two LGBTQ people are appointed to the Department of Defense. President Biden announces he will enforce federal policy protecting LGBTQ people from discrimination in health care based on gender identity and sexual orientation.

The U.S. expands birthright citizenship of babies born abroad to same-sex couples.

The LGBTQ+ community in the last year is full of incredible highs and incredible lows. The notable moments on our 'Road To Stonewall' celebration in 2022 are...

Trans Community Violence Is The Highest In History

The HRC reported that 2021 had record number of transgender violence and murders, more than any single year in history. Worse, it was mostly aimed at transgender women of color. 2022 has continued to keep this record pace.

More Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation Introduced In 2022 In History

LGBTQ+ civil rights organizations report that more than 250 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced in states across America. It has become the single largest attack on LGBTQ+ community since before the Stonewall Riots of 1969.

Florida Says ‘Don't Say Gay'

Florida's Governor Ron Desantis and conservative GOP representatives pass the first of it's kind legislation to prevent any discussion of gender identify or sexual orientation in schools. The 2022 legislative session brings about state, national and international condemnation of Florida's anti-LGBTQ+ actions. Florida, Disney, and our schools literally are ground zero for 2022's 'Culture War' on gay leading into the mid-term elections.

Equality Florida's Nadine Smith Becomes Time Magazine's 100 Days before Stonewall Pride celebration, long time LGBTQ+ civil rights activist Nadine Smith is recognized by Time Magazine 100 as 'One Of The Most Influential People In The World'. The recognition is a first of its kind for LGBTQ+ civil rights in Florida. <SCOTT, WE HAVE A

More Americans Identify As LGBTQ+ Than Ever In History

The 2022 Gallup poll had groundbreaking reporting that the number of LGBTQ+ in America was actually far higher than previously known. With only 2% of Baby Boomers identifying as LGBTQ and stunning 20% of Gen-z said they were gay. Gallup reports that more than 10% of the US population is LGBTQ+, more than 3% greater than ever reported before.

Photo: Wikimedia.org -

Gage Skidmore

Roe Overturned And LGBTQ+

During June 2022 pride month The Supreme Court overturns Roe v Wade. This 50 year settled law turned out to be not so settled. Justice Clarence Thomas sends shock waves through the LGBTQ+ community suggesting that gay marriage should be relitigated also.

Rainbow Wave Politicians Continue To Grow

November 2022 elections had more than 400 out candidates win (100 more than 2021). Meanwhile two states make history by electing Queer Women as Governor including Massachusetts Maura Healey and Oregon Tina Kotek.

Club Q Shooting

On November 19, 2022 Another mass shooting in a gay club reminds entire LGBTQ+ community of Orlando's Pulse shooting as 5 are murdered and 25 more injured in the Colorado Springs shooting.

Federal Respect For Marriage Passes

On December 13, 2022 America finally gets legislation for gay marriage. It's something. Congress passes a law that says states that don't want marriage can't take marriage away from those married in states that do. It's not the Equality Act, but it may be the next best thing.

International LGBTQ+ News

The year brings big international LGBTQ+ news with Russia releasing lesbian basketball star Britney Griner, Uganda passing the most dangerous 'Death Penalty' law in the world, Hungary facing huge fines and perhaps expulsion from the EU over anti-LGBTQ+ and the Pope making positive overtures to the queer community.

World Pride Goes “Down Under, Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert”

In February, for the first time, World Pride is celebrated in the Southern Hemisphere and Sydney, Australia. Up next, Washington, D.C. in 2025.

Photo: Mass.gov

Expanded “Don't Say Gay”

And we really we mean don't say gay, trans, bi, lesbian or queer. Florida expanded the law from 3rd to 12th grade and the Governor defined black history as “queer theory” and thus banned it and about 1000 books. To add insult to injury Florida exported the hateful legislation to more than 15 states considering Florida-type laws.

Record Hate Against LGBTQ+

It is no exaggeration that we are facing record hate from radical GOP conservatives and evangelicals. 2023 has seen more than 450 state bills (so far) against LGBTQ+ community. More than double last year.

Drag And Drag Queens Create Confusion And Chaos

On May 17, 2023 Gov. Ron DeSantis signs SB 1438. Drag bans (or whatever vagueness states promote) in Tennessee, other states, but especially Florida cause chaos for theaters, restaurants, bars, charity events and especially Pride Parades. Three Florida cities cancel their Pride events as city governments justify changes “In an over abundance of caution.” Florida's SB 1438 will eventually affect virtually every LGBTQ+ person living or visiting in Florida. Not to mention all drag queens.

Mr. President Of Hate

On May 23, 2023 Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took on a surreal campaign to announce as a candidate for President of the United States using his anti-LGBTQ+ policies and used June Pride Month to draw attention to his campaign announcement. DeSantis, in terms of power and influence moves into icon status as arguably the most anti-LGBTQ+ politician in American history. This story is evolving daily.

We Are Getting Queer-er

Studies show LGBTQ+ in America is growing in numbers. This is likely because of acceptance and comfort of those coming out as surveys report a full 1 in 5 (20%) of Gen-z identify as LGBTQ+.

Happy Pride!

Photo: npr.com

Pride Through The Years

Photos: Hotspots Archives

By Tim Larcombe and the editorial team at MrMan.com

Over the past century, television and movies have played a significant role in shaping cultural perceptions and breaking barriers. The representation of LGBTQ+ characters and storylines has been an important aspect of this transformation. This Pride season, with the help of our friends at MrMan.com, we celebrate some of the most influential gay milestones in TV and movie history; moments that have not only entertained audiences but also fostered understanding, acceptance, and social change.

Wings (1927)

The very first Best Picture winner featured a same-sex kiss between two soldiers.

The Queen (1968)

This documentary film following drag queens organizing and participating in the 1967 Miss All-America Camp Beauty Contest was screened at the Cannes Film Festival.

The Boys in the Band (1970)

As one of the first films to revolve around gay characters, it was a huge step forward for gay representation.

“History Fort Lauderdale is grateful to our community of supporters who have recently joined us to showcase the valuable legacies of our LGBTQ businesses and influential leaders who have worked to make our great city an ideal place to live, work, and play...”

Boys in the Sand (1971)

Gay icon Wakefield Poole's hardcore gay film debuted a year prior to Deep Throat. It remains a landmark film in mainstream-ish depiction of gay men.

Taxi Zum Klo (1980)

Featuring numerous gay men playing themselves, it is praised for its depiction of gay culture just prior to the AIDS crisis.

Querelle (1982)

An adaptation of French queer icon Jean Genet's 1947 novel about a young sailor exploring his queerness.

My Beautiful Laundrette (1985)

Depicts the plight of a young gay immigrant.

Paris is Burning (1991)

The second major documentary to tackle the world of ball culture featured the first filmed depictions of the "Vogue" phenomenon.

Poison (1991)

All of Todd Haynes' films— including Velvet Goldmine, and Carol—are essential films in queer cinema.

My Own Private Idaho (1991)

One of the first major examples of marquee young matinee idols (River Phoenix and Keanu Reeves) taking on roles that people at the time told them were career killers.

The Crying Game (1992)

One of the first films to humanize a transgender character—rather than use them as a means to the lead character's end.

Philadelphia (1993)

A film that brought gay characters and the AIDS crisis into America's living rooms.

Hustler White (1996)

Bruce La Bruce's breakthrough film marked him as the first major artistic talent in the world of gay pornography since Wakefield Poole.

Love! Valour! Compassion! (1995)

Featured an almost all-out cast, many of whom starred in the original Broadway production.

Bent (1997)

The first major pop culture piece to tackle the persecution of gay men during the Holocaust.

Happy Together (1997)

Acclaimed Chinese filmmaker Wong Kar-wai brought us a landmark in queer representation for Asia in general and China in particular.

Will and Grace (1998)

Among the many groundbreaking moments on the show was the lip lock between stars Eric McCormack and Sean Hayes.

Dawson's Creek (1998)

Kerr Smith's character Jack McPhee had a two-part coming out episode in the show's second season and was later part of the first man-on-man kiss on network television by a recurring character.

Queer as Folk

The original UK version, which ran for two seasons from 1999-2000, was substantially more explicit than the American remake which ran from 2000-2004. Both versions certainly did a lot for queer representation on television.

Iconic for its threesome from which the woman eventually excuses herself, letting its main male characters finally give in to the sexual chemistry between them.

Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001)

John Cameron Mitchell's first film is an adaptation of his kick-ass rock/glam musical that he poured his heart, soul, and queerness into, centering the story around a trans character.

Y Tu Mamá También (2001)

The Dreamers (2003)

Bernardo Bertolucci's film was one of the very few films to be released theatrically in North America with an NC-17 rating.

Angels in America (2003) After becoming a Broadway sensation in the 90s, Mike Nichols' epic two-part adaptation of Tony Kushner's work was another huge step forward for television.

Brokeback Mountain (2005)

Ang Lee's Oscar-winning tale of love between two cowhands has only grown in stature since its release.

Shortbus (2006)

John Cameron Mitchell's outrageous celebration of sex and sexuality in all its many shapes and forms shocked art-house audiences with its explicit depictions of real sex.

One Life to Live (2009)

Out actor Scott Evans—brother of Chris—made headlines when his character Oliver Fish began his own coming out journey, including the first gay scene in daytime television history!

Stranger by the Lake (2013)

This critically acclaimed mystery film lands with audiences of all stripes because of both its excellent plot and hot gay sex.

Moonlight (2016)

The first Best Picture winner to focus exclusively on a gay lead character. It offered an honest look at how hard it is to grow up in America as a gay minority.

Call Me By Your Name (2017)

Adapted for the screen by out writer James Ivory and directed by out filmmaker Luca Guadagnino, this Oscar winning film brought a sumptuous gay love story to mainstream art-house audiences.

Pose (2018)

Walking through the doors kicked down by RuPaul's Drag Race, the series brought 80s ball culture and the early days of the AIDS crisis to a mainstream audience.

Rocketman (2019)

The first studio film with gay sex.

The Boys in the Band (2020)

The entire cast and major production team were all openly gay.

The White Lotus (2021)

This salad tossing scene almost didn't happen. The original script called for a standard-issue gay sex scene.

My Policeman (2022)

Harry Styles brings his famously sexy stage presence to a passionate gay sex scene.

Bros (2022)

Billy Eichner broke new ground in 2022 with the first-ever gay romantic comedy distributed by a major Hollywood studio.

> Learn more about these films at MrMan.com

Pride Through The Years

Photos: Hotspots Archives

By Chris Azzopardi Photos c @matteolane

There are many places where you've probably seen Matteo Lane — among them, on Netflix's queer comic showcase “The Comedy Lineup” and on his something-for-everyone Instagram, where he's been wearing more shirts. This shift happened during the pandemic. Lane tells me he decided to pull back from thirst-trap pics, at least a bit (a recent

tour poster features him slurping on spaghetti sans shirt) and offer more of his comedic thoughts. On Instagram, you'll find him doing just that on everything from a visit to the Museum of Sex in New York to making dishes featuring his Italian heritage. For instance, in one how-to video while he's making penne alla vodka, he admits not ordering penne in Italy because

the risk is too great for the word to be misheard as “pene,” which means exactly what you think it does: penis. Here, Lane talks about touring, why the pandemic doesn't always make for great comedic material and that time a journalist made him sound like a “depressed Fiona Apple.”

How is doing an LGBTQ+ benefit show different than a typical Matteo Lane show?

Well, for a performer, things don't change. I have a job to do. My job is to go up and be as funny as possible for the allotted time I'm given, and I hate to say, but that's pretty much it. That's the benefit of working in New York for so long, in so many different types of rooms and shows and bars and basements and houses and clubs and train stations — that you have worked up enough skill to perform in any environment.

So obviously because it's a fundraiser and it's full of queer people, they're not going to be hostile to me. If I was doing a fundraiser for, I don't know, hunting, that might be different. It might be out of place, and they'd be like, “Please leave.” And I'd be like, “You're right.” But yeah, I mean, I'm happy to do anything I can to help, and all I can really offer is my sense of humor, so hopefully it brings some joy to people.

Have you entered a room where it felt hostile?

I'm a homosexual. Yes. Let's

start with the Catholic Church. Let's start with locker rooms. Let's start with school in general. So yes, I have experienced not feeling welcome.

As a comedian, though, have you been in a space that wasn't welcoming to you? Yes. The thing is, it's hard to explain to people sometimes, because people just don't know. People say things to you, or don't understand comedy or the world of comedy. It's not like I was excited to be a comedian and then suddenly I'm performing for sold out rooms. I spent 12 years performing in literal basements with three people, places all the way in deep Brooklyn. You just perform wherever you can. Nothing glamorous really happened to me until a year ago.

So yeah, there's been so many times I've been on stage and people either make assumptions, or don't like that I'm gay, or whatever. But you know what? At the end of the day, my goal is to try and bridge that gap and show them we're more alike than we are different. We're living through a very polarized and divisive time if you look at the political climate and what's happening to drag queens. I imagine conservatives would have a lot to say about children coming to your show. Well, I don't want children at my show, let's just start there. And number two, these conservative politicians, it's the most

“Throw up a shirtless picture, see what you can get.”

simple, basic therapy. Obviously, no one's mad at a drag queen reading to a child. They're mad about something else. And I think it's because they're losing grip with reality, and they know that they're losing touch, and they know they're losing their stand in America, and this is the last attempt to try and gain some control and have kind of a message. Because the best way to get people on your side is through fear. And so, they're trying to instill fear in people. And it's like, well, we've got arms, poison, car accidents, alcohol, the Catholic Church. These things hurt kids more than a drag queen reading a kid a book about Humpty Dumpty. You know what I mean? I think the most frustrating problem is that they don't actually care, but we are an easy target for them because they know they can instill fear into people. But I think their days are coming to an end.

It all reeks of desperation. And I also grew up Catholic, so everything you're saying about Catholicism is extremely relatable to a young queer kid, such as myself, who grew up feeling like I had to make a choice. It was either God or being gay. Right. Well, for priests, it's both. By the way, I hope when you write this... I hate doing interviews because when people write stuff, I think I'm coming off funny, and then I read it, and you guys always try and make me sound way more serious than I actually am, and it ruins the vibe. So please do me a favor, and don't make me sound like I'm proselytizing and preaching. I'm here to be a comic. It sounds like that's something you're very conscious of. Because I did an interview once, years ago, for a magazine. I was trying to be really funny, and being funny sometimes can be self-deprecating, and they twisted it on me and made it sound like I was this depressed Fiona Apple who's trying to do comedy. And I'm like, “Wow, OK, lesson learned that not everyone has your best interests in mind when doing things.”

Does that make it difficult to talk to journalists for you? Not being able to really control the narrative?

Yeah, because it's not really in my control. If we're doing a TV interview, I'm fully in control. People hear how I say things, see how I say things. When people write stuff, they put their voice into [my] head, and assume how I feel, and it's tricky.

Yeah, I get that. But I've been doing this for a long time, and it's really important to me to make sure that I preserve the voice of the subject that I'm interviewing.

Gosh, the title of the article is Matteo Lane, in quotes: "I hate myself."

You mentioned your ascension earlier. But when you look back, and you touched on this a bit, how do you reflect on your journey to getting to this place right now in your career?

I was just talking about this with my therapist today, and I'm so in the eye of the storm that I can't quite feel it yet. I

just sort of feel like I'm still working, just more. Nothing has really changed. I mean, I have better hair now. But I'm just always on planes, always in hotels, just performing. I feel like Liza Minnelli. I'm taking a break this summer, so hopefully I can reflect on the cool things I've done. But I'm just kind of a workhorse right now. So, I haven't really thought about it, to tell you the truth. I'm happy. What's your process for writing your comedy?

I write on stage, so I use the Comedy Cellar in New York to write. I can't sit at a coffee shop and write for hours. My brain just doesn't do that. So, what I do is I have ideas and go on stage and record myself and work them out on stage, right with the audience. And then figure it out through repetition that way. What about the material on this tour? It's been an interesting time in the world, as we talked about, and you, like the rest of us, were in isolation for a while. Did you draw upon any of that for this show?

Yeah. I mean, you would be surprised, but when you get in front of a thousand people, they don't want to be reminded that they were quarantined for two years. I have to think of things that are a little more evergreen and universal, that will last for more than just what's happening in the now, because people have made the jokes already. I talk about Fortnite and Call of Duty a lot, because that's what I was doing the whole time I was in the pandemic, and I wrote a lot of material because of it. So, a lot of material came from the pandemic, but it's not an hour where I'm like, "And remember when?"

You just make a decision of where you want to go. And I mean, it's frustrating, because we all went through some deep trauma for two years and we all just pretend it didn't happen. But during the pandemic, I was doing all those park shows, and rooftop shows, and I talked about it then, but then you just naturally feel that the time is up. How do you navigate between the obvious gay thirst for you and also the interest in your actual work as a comedian?

Depends on how horny I am. I don't know. Am I feeling lonely? Do I need to date someone? Throw up a shirtless picture, see what you can get. Pretty much it. I'm no

different than any other gay. I just want attention.

I mean, to tell you the truth, I haven't posted thirst traps regularly. I mean, I was, up until the pandemic, and then I just made the decision to start posting my material instead. I really benefited from having people appreciate me for my thoughts. I enjoy working out, and I enjoy feeling good and healthy, and I'm very proud to say I see a trainer and eat healthy. And I don't drink, and I don't do drugs. And that's just the sort of a life I chose.

After your Lansing show, after touring, what's next?

Eating pasta in Italy. What's the Matteo Lane fan base like in Italy? Gay, but they speak Italian.

This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.

Chris Azzopardi is the Editorial Director of Pride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate, the national LGBTQ+ wire service. He has interviewed a multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ and Billboard. Reach him via Twitter @chrisazzopardi.

Broward Centers Broadway in Fort Lauderdale 23/24

The Bnk of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale series, presenting sponsor Nicklaus Children's Hospital, is proud to announce its 2023/2024 season at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The season includes five Fort Lauderdale premieres: Funny Girl, Hadestown, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Mrs. Doubtfire and Clue. The season also features the return of Annie and The Book of Mormon.

“We're thrilled to once again be bringing a spectacular line-up of Broadway shows to the Broward Center. With four South Florida premieres, two returning favorites and a Fort Lauderdale debut, this season has

ANNIE - Oct 10 – 22, 2023

Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production–just as you remember it and just when we need it most.

Annie, directed by Jenn Thompson, features the iconic book and score, written by Tony Award -winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin. This celebration of family, optimism and the American spirit remains the ultimate cure for all the hard knocks life throws your way.

something for everyone!” said Susie Krajsa, President, Broadway Across America.

“We know our audiences will be delighted to see what's coming to the Broward Center next season,” said Kelley Shanley, President & CEO of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. “With some of the hottest titles from the heart of Broadway coming to Fort Lauderdale, we know we'll once again be offering an incomparable theatrical experience with a blend of Tony-winning, high-energy performances, timeless classics, new musical comedies and so much more. We could not be more excited about the upcoming season!”

FUNNY GIRL - Nov 14 – 26, 2023

Featuring one of the greatest musical scores of all time, including classic songs “Don't Rain On My Parade,” “I'm the Greatest Star,” and “People,” this letter to the theatre is the story of the indomitable Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East Side who dreamed of a life on the stage. Everyone told her she'd never be a star, but then something funny happened—she became one of the most beloved performers in history, shining brighter than the brightest lights of Broadway.

THE BOOK OF MORMON Subscriber

Choice – Dec 12 – 17, 2023

The New York Times calls it “the best

musical of this century.” The Washington Post says, “It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.” And Entertainment Weekly says, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” Jimmy Fallon of The Tonight Show calls it "Genius. Brilliant. Phenomenal." It's The Book of Mormon, the nine-time Tony Award winning Best Musical. This outrageous musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. With standing room only productions in London, on Broadway, and across North America, The Book of Mormon has truly become an international sensation. Contains explicit language.

HADESTOWN - Jan 9 – 21, 2024

Welcome to Hadestown, where a song can change your fate. Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show from celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and innovative director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812) is a love story for today... and always.

Intertwining two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — Hadestown is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never let's go.

MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL

Mar 5 – 17, 2024

Pop the champagne, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is the winner of 10 Tony Awards—including Best Musical! Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eyepopping excess, of glitz, grandeur, and glory! A world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Welcome to Moulin Rouge! The Musical! Baz Luhrmann's revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a theatrical celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and—above all—Love. With a book by Tony

Award winner John Logan; music supervision, orchestrations, and arrangements by Tony Award winner Justin Levine; and choreography by Tony Awards winner Sonya Tayeh, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is more than a musical—it is a state of mind.

MRS. DOUBTFIRE - Apr 9 – 21, 2024

Everyone's favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Fort Lauderdale in an internationally acclaimed new hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, familyfriendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film and directed by four-time Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks, Mrs. Doubtfire tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It's “the lovable, bighearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we're better together.

CLUE Subscriber Choice

Jun 11 – 16, 2024

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they'll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the cult 1985 Paramount movie and

Season tickets for the 2023/2024

Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale six-show package are now on sale and range from $270$1,020*.

The subscription packages include five shows plus one additional subscriber choice. Week One subscribers will have The Book of Mormon as their default Subscriber Choice show, and

inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

Week Two subscribers will have Clue as their default Subscriber Choice show. Subscribers may choose to change their Subscriber Choice show or add additional tickets at a later date.

To renew your subscription or purchase a new subscription package, visit BroadwayInFortLauderdale.com. For more information, go to Browardcenter.org