OUTBURST VOICES FROM BRISTOL’S LGBT COMMUNITY
Summer 2010 Pride Issue #28
Co -Chair Letter Welcome – New Outburst Notice anything different? Yes, Outburst has had a revamp. We’ve been having a bit of a think about the magazine and, in a year when so much is happening in Bristol’s LGBT and queer communities, we wanted to make sure views got heard, read, shared and discussed. We’re hoping the more portable and readable format means more people picking up Outburst and learning more about the work of the LGB Forum and what is going on in LGBT Bristol. We’ll still carry listings and useful community information from all sorts of organisations, but you’ll now see sections on lifestyle, culture and health. Alan Palmer Forum Co Chair
We’re also looking to create a space for debate with a section on political views – not necessarily party political views, though we do kick off with the 1 of the main parties. If you want to share your own political views, then let us know.
This year is shaping up to be an excellent one in terms of campaigning for and representation of LGBT issues in Bristol. After a couple of years of pressure coordinated by the Forum, Bristol City Council signed up to the Stonewall Education Champions Programme. This is a fantastic development, and a consequence of you voicing your concerns about homophobia and transphobia in our schools. We’ll continue to hold the council to account and keep you up to date with progress in future Outbursts, on our website (www.bristol-lgb-forum.org.uk) and on our Facebook page. You can find out more about the hugely diverse range of events that took place in February for LGBT History Month, and get an early insight into next year’s plans. We were really impressed with the turnout for the first annual IDAHO picnic in May, with around 250 people joining us to speak out against homophobia and transphobia in Bristol, the Uk and around the world. The IDAHO picnic is scheduled to return next year, so we’d love to hear your views about how to make it a bigger and better event. This summer is all about Pride Bristol (www.pridebristol.com). The hugely talented team has been working its collective socks, shoes, trousers, tops and hats off to bring us an amazing array of events, films, performance, comedy, music and more. It is the festival that Bristol deserves. Simon Nelson, Chair of Bristol Pride shares his thoughts.
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Co -Chair Letter One final thing to draw your attention to is our forthcoming new name. We’ve always supported transgender issues, but our name and constitution suggests otherwise. Our members wanted to change that so at the next Annual General Meeting we’ll be proposing amendments to our constitution to help people realise we are for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. And our new name? Well, that will be up to our members as well. If you haven’t joined yet, do so before the AGM and you can vote on our new name. Outburst is all about the diverse range of views in LGBT and Q people in Bristol. If you’ve got something to say, say it in a future edition. Get in touch on 0117 353 4621 info@bristol-lgb-forum.org.uk
Alan Palmer Co-Chair LGB Forum Visit us at our website www.bristol-lgb-forum.org.uk Join us on Facebook & Twitter
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Inside Summer 2010 Pride Issue #28
Cover Planetarium @ Bristol
Image Credits Bristol Ballons, @ Bristol & Forum members
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Co -Chair Letter Words from Alan
FORUM 5
IDAHO Day
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Help us make shape the Forum and the community
News of the event & feed back
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Forum Volunteering
LGBT History Month Coverage of the events from the community.
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Community Listings All new community listings from social groups, support to LGBT achivities and more......
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Inside
20 Simon Nelson on Pride Bristol
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Politics All new community section exploring LGBT people and their political views. starting us off is Stephen Williams MP.
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23 David Thompson in our culture section
Culture: Travel All new travel section in the culture part of the magazine
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In Profile In this section we hear updates and get profiles on who’s who and whats happening in our community at large.
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Gender Journey The Trans section of our magazine taking you through our journey to be more inclusive of our Trans friends...
33 Whats On Listings
The Guide to all things LGBT in Bristol from Scene guide, events, Networking to LGBT friendly venues. If your not list email us
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Forum: IDAHO Event on 16th May 2010 On Sunday 16 May 2010 from 1-3 pm the Bristol LGB Forum held an event in the form of a picnic on College Green to celebrate IDAHO - the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (May 17). Chaired by Alan Palmer, Forum Co-Chair and supported by Logan Blackburn, Forum Co-Chair and the Management Committee the event was a huge success drawing in over 250 people. Stephen Williams, MP for Bristol West (Lib Dem) opened the event with uplifting speech on the decline of homophobia in the UK, followed by an open mic session that gave a number of people the opportunity to share their experiences as LGBT people in Bristol, including a couple who emigrated to allow the non-birth mother to be able to adopt their child (the only country that allowed this at the time); a brave survivor of an horrific homophobic attack which left the victim with injuries and is now registered disabled; an asylum seeker from Uganda who suffered at the hands of those in his country who believe that homosexuality is a crime. The event also included a great performance from local artist Tom Marshman, talks from Pride Bristol, Bristol Queer Caf, the LGBT Education Workers Group, sociologist Dr Eric Anderson and Freedom Youth (local LGBT youth group), about their work and what they are doing. Thank you to the Rainbow Group and the Equalities Team at Bristol City Council who provided some of the financial support and especially to Jo McDonald the Equalities Officer who helped the management team and staff at the Bristol LGB Forum when the Development Worker was away on bereavement leave.
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Forum Thank you also to the Pride Team who publicised and supported the event en masse. A special word of thanks to the Invisible Security Team who attended the event and gave their services free - thank you, Stuart, Richard and Team. Feedback on the day included requests for an annual event and at the time of printing the Forum has decided to hold an IDAHO event next year (resources and funding permitting!).
IDAHO Event Feedback: “This is an opportunity for people in Bristol to speak out against homophobia and transphobia and stand up for equality across the world for LGBT people. We are keen to acknowledge the significant developments in LGBT equality over recent years, while reminding people that there is still some way to go and that we must not become complacent. We also want people in Bristol to have a chance to show support for LGBT people around the world, particularly citizens of countries that do not have the same equalities and freedoms as we do in the UK.� Alan Palmer, Co-Chair Bristol LGB Forum
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Forum “The Rainbow Group are very pleased to support the gathering led by the Bristol LGB Forum that took place for IDAHO Day on College Green in Bristol in 2010. The event offered the chance for LGBT people, friends and supporters to meet and share experiences. Bristol is an international city and the IDAHO event gave the chance to reflect on the successes made on LGBT rights in this country and the struggles still going on in many countries around the world. We all share a responsibility to improve human rights across the world and in it’s own small way the IDAHO Day event empowered the people of Bristol to have their say. People just like us lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people around the world should be able to be themselves without fear, prejudice or discrimination.” Tony Pitt, Co-Chair Rainbow Group “The Equalities and Team at Bristol City Council was delighted to support and to put funding towards the event organised by the Bristol LGB Forum for IDAHO. A number of us attended and were really pleased to see the support the event received and the number of people who attended. It is an important day in the LGBT calendar for reminding society that there is still much work to be done around the world in combating homophobia and transphobia and building an inclusive society. We hope this event can continue in Bristol and will strive to continue to support it.” Equalities Team at Bristol City Council “Organised by the LGB Forum, supported by the Rainbow Group and promoted by Pride Bristol, the event proved to be a successful collaboration of LGBT networks in Bristol.” Pride Bristol website
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Forum IDAHO Event Feedback: “This event has been organised by the Bristol LGB Forum with the support of the Equalities team and the Rainbow Self Organised Group at Bristol City Council to mark International Day Aganist Homophobia and Transphobia or IDAHO day. Bristol City Council is committed to fighting homophobia and transphobia both as an employer and across the city. In the last couple of years we have introduced many initiatives as a part of this fight including: • the publication of a mythbusting booklet about lesbian, gay and bisexual people • the publication of guidelines for managers of transgender people • a continuing campaign to improve our standing in the Stonewall Work place Equality Index which publishes a list of the top 100 employers for LGB people • committing to fighting homophobia and transphobia in our schools, including signing up to the Stonewall Education Champions programme • supporting the development of a PRIDE event for Bristol for 2010 • continuing to encourage people to report homophobic and transphobic harassment and hate crime through its various campaigns with Safer Bristol IDAHO day is about people across the world coming together to celebrate the ideal of creating a world without homophobia or transphobia and in which everyone can freely choose their identity and live as who they are. It is about us remembering the people who have suffered and died for their identity. But it is also celebratory - it is a chance for people to celebrate those across the world who are fighting against persecution and for equal rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and whose positive initiatives celebrating IDAHO day can give us all hope for the future”. Cllr Barbara Janke, Leader of Bristol City Council May 2010
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Forum LGBT History Month
This year there were more events celebrating LGBT History during February in Bristol than in previous years. They were also more diverse and better attended. One of the reasons for this was a more coordinated approach between the various agencies taking part, which included events organised in partnership, and events being organised in response to requests from the LGBT public in Bristol. This has lead to the formation of an LGBT History Month working group that is meeting regularly to progress the organisation of events for February 2011. Currently the group has representatives from the Forum, the Equalities Team at the council, the Rainbow Group (self organised group at the Council), the libraries team (who is leading the group) and LGBT individuals who have expressed an interest in working on LGBT History Month. If you are interested in being involved with the group, have ideas for events or have venues/item/time to volunteer for LGBT History Month 2011 please email sarah@bristol-lgb-forum.org.uk with �LGBT HM� in the subject line.
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Forum LGBT History Month Celebrating Black Gay History On Sunday 7th February as part of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender History Month and with financial support of the Bristol LGB Forum, Bristol’s Watershed complex played host to Topher Campbell’s film ‘In this our lives’ – the reunion. The 1 hour film was agreed by members of the newly formed social group Rhapsody supporting Black and minority ethnic lesbian gay and bisexuals and their friends and partners in the West. The film is centred around a question time debate held between black gay men who had attended the first ever Black Gay Conference held in London in 1987. Twenty years on the film reflected on the lives and experiences of a diverse group of black gay men living in London all of whom had contributed to the progression of black gay culture in some shape or form. The discussions ranged from the lack of visibility of Black gay men to the lack of interest of black and other minority interests from within the wider LGB communities. From racism to continued homophobia to social class nothing was missed in this lively insight into the lives of a few men who still face many challenges in being totally accepted in society.
Simon Nelson Rhapsody
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Forum LGBT History Month Bristol Museum Event On Tuesday 16th February Bristol Museums held an event at Council House collect stories, views and experiences of LGBT people as part of their developing collection of the various memories and life experiences of Bristol's diverse communities. This was an opportunity to ensure that the contemporary stories of Bristol's LGBT people are recorded as part of the ongoing history of the city's people - and several of us took part in an enjoyable event that gave rise to many fond memories of LGBT life in Bristol. We participated in various activities exploring our LGBT connections and experiences, some of us recording our stories and memories on film. Bristol Museums Community History Curator, Sarwat Siddiqui is still collating information and would appreciate your contribution to help develop their archive for present and future generations, as LGBT stories are currently under-represented in the Museums and Archives collections. If you would like to contribute please contact Sarwat at: sarwat.siddiqui@bristol.gov.uk or on 0117 3525568
Talk by Author On Tuesday 16th February the Council and Bristol LGB Forum organised an author event at Central Library where Shelia Rowbotham came to talk about the book she has recently published entitled “Edward Carptenter : A life of liberty and love�. For Sheila, Edward Carpenter has held a life long fascination and this was a book she very much enjoyed writing. She spoke for ninety minutes to a packed audience and gave a very well received and humorous overview on his life. This was a man who lived a life of liberty, who was a fan of feminism, a pioneering socialist and who wrote openly and enthusiastically about homosexuality. He has inspired many, and more about him and those he has inspired can be found at the links below : www.edwardcarpenter.net www.edwardcarpenterforum.org www.edwardcarpentercommunity.org.uk
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Forum Volunteering
We have had a few developments on the Volunteering Team. Emily who led the group for 6 months left following a promotion – congratulations Emily! , and Toni the Forum Administrator is now heading the Team having developed a volunteer strategy and attended a volunteer management course. Toni is now working on drawing up task and role descriptions, so that we can give prospective volunteers an idea of the kind of skills we need, the roles we'd like them to volunteer for and the kind of experience they can expect to gain from their contribution. We need help with: • Our website and social networks • Writing articles and reviews • Photography and video for the site • Artwork / cartoons for the newsletter • Recruiting new members and Trustees
Join our Management Team If you are interested in getting involved in the Forum – meeting and networking with other LGBT people, attending meetings on behalf of the Forum, determining the future work and direction that the Forum takes, please think about joining our Management Committee and contact the office on info@bristol-lgb-forum.org.uk with “MC” in the subject line. Being a member of the Management Committee can enhance your CV and give you an opportunity to widen your contacts and develop new friendships. Not all meetings are work meetings we are a social group too! Want to volunteer from home? From our recent survey we had a couple of requests for help that a person could provide from home and not have to be a member or active volunteer. There is help you could provide – email the office admin@bristol-lgb-forum.org.uk anything you find in the media (papers, TV, radio, internet) that would be of interest to LGBT people and supporters. We will endeavour to put the information (where appropriate) on our website let us know if you want the submission acknowledged.
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Listings: Support BLAGS - Bristol Lesbian & Gay Switchboard Confidential support and information to gay men, lesbians and all people with concerns about sexuality. Call us on 8-10pm Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs 0117 922 1328. mail@bristolblags.org.uk www.bristolblags.org.uk Brigstowe Project Housing project for people living with HIV,providing support, advice and advocacy. 176 Easton Rd, Easton, Bristol. Call 0117 9415188 www.brigstowe.org Rainbow Group Bristol City Council employees’ LGBT group Call Equalities on 0117 922 3786 or email rainbow@bristol.gov.uk Bristol Drugs Project Support for users, families and friends. 11 Brunswick Square, Bristol BS2 8PE. Call LGB rep Sarah Wilson on 0117 987 6010 HST@bdp.org.uk www.bdp.org.uk Bristol Families and Friends BFF is a support group for families & friends of LGB people. We meet on the third Wednesday of every month at 7pm at the Terrence Higgins Trust. Call Sue Allen on 01454 852 418. 14 Brockley Close, Little Stoke, Bristol BS34 6EZ sueallenfflag@blueyonder.co.uk Broken Rainbow National helpline for LGBT victims of domestic violence, available Mon-Fri 9am-1pm, 2-5pm. Call 0208 539 9507 www.broken-rainbow.org.uk mail@broken-rainbow.org.uk DeaFab Group for and run by LGBT people in Bristol. Contact Ian Clover, 31 Talavera Close, Old Market, Bristol, BS2 0ED SMS: 07966217 543 deafab2009@yahoo.co.uk www.deafab.co.uk
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Listings: Support EACH - Educational Action Challenging Homophobia A national charitable organisation set up to address homophobia through training and education. EACH runs a helpline for teachers, young people and parents, and for third-party reporting of homophobic incidents. Freephone helpline 0808 1000 143 (10am-5pm Mon-Fri and 10am-12noon Sat). General enquiries 0117 946 7606/7. Office 24, 14 Clifton Down Road, Bristol BS8 4BF. info@eachaction.org.uk www.eachaction.org.uk Freedom Youth Weekly drop-in youth group on a Tuesday for LGBT and Q young people aged 13 to 21. Contact the team on 0117 377 3677 or www.freedomyouth.co.uk Gay Glos Help, advice and social networks for LGBT people living in the rural areas of Gloucestershire. PO Box 171, Gloucester. Mon-Fri 7.30-10pm. Call 01452 306 800. www.gay-glos.org The Harbour Providing free, professional counselling andpsychotherapy to people affected by HIV, AIDS & other life-threatening illnesses. 30 Frogmore St, Bristol: 0117 925 9348 www.the-harbour.co.uk Lesbian & Children Network A bi-monthly social group for lesbians & bisexual women & their children. Call Rachel 07813 754 291. rachely@talktalk.net LGBT Education Workers Support and information sharing group for all who are involved in education - teachers, governors, support workers etc. Meets monthly. To join or for further information see lgbt-education.ning.com LGBT History of Bristol We are a group who are interested in discussing and collating information about LGBT History in Bristol. Email for further information : lgbt-historyofbristol@gmx.co.uk
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Listings: Support Victim Support Avonvale We provide emotional and practical support to all people affected by crime, Call 0117 963 1114, www.victimsupportavonvale.org.uk LGBT Young People’s Team Citywide support for LGBT young people in Bristol. Ashley House, 98-100 Grosvenor Road, St. Paul’s, Bristol, BS2 8YE 0117 377 3673 Terrence Higgins Trust West Information, care and support, and health promotion for all people affected by HIV & AIDS. Counselling, budding, complementary therapies, advocacy & advice. Call 0117 955 1000. 8 West Street, Old Market, BS2 0BH. info.bristol@tht.org.uk Missing Lesbians Website listing events for women in Bristol and the surrounding areas. listings@missinglesbians.co.uk www.missinglesbians.co.uk Number 8 This group for married and single bisexual men meets the first Thursday of every month at THT 8-10 West Street, Old Market. 6pm-7.30pm. Call 0117 941 2440 OutUWE - (UWESU) Weekly meetings, consisting of alternate on scene and off scene events, plus trips. UWE Student Union, Frenchay Campus, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol. BS16 1QY. outuwe@live.co.uk www.uwesu.net/outuwe
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Listings: Social Pride Bristol Pride Bristol 2010 is organised by a diverse group of LGBT volunteers www.pridebristol.com Sing Out Bristol Sing Out Bristl is a choir runby and for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people who enjoy singing. We are a very social group and musical experience is not needed. singoutbristol@googlemail.com www.singoutbristol.com Bristol 3Ms Supper group for gay & bisexual men. Regular social evenings in Bristol and Weston-super-Mare. Call Russell 0117 9739855. bristol_3ms@hotmail.com Pink Herrings Social network for lesbians, meets every other Thursday evening at 8:30. Also bowling, cinema, coffee bars, theatre, concerts, discos, cycling, walks, meals out and more. For further info call Dot on 0117 986 1529 So Out in the South West A social and support group for disabled gay men living and/or working in the South West. robin.corser-langford@virgin.net University of Bristol LGBT Society We organise regular social events for all LGBTstudents at Bristol University. LGBT Society,University of Bristol Union, Queens Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LN. lgbtsoc-ubu@bristol.ac.uk www.bristol.ac.uk/union/lgbt GayWest A social and support group for gay people in the South West. Meets Sat mornings in the Rainbow Cafe in Bath. Call 0870 811 1990, Mon – Fri 8pm – 10pm. GayWest, PO Box 586, Bath, BA1 2YQ. info@gaywest.org.uk www.gaywest.org.uk
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Listings: Active Wild Walking Women Walking group for lesbians, meets the 2nd Sunday of the month Call 07980418 676. South West Walking Women For women interested in hiking in the Bath and Bristol area at weekends. sw_walkingwomen@yahoo.co.uk Bristol Bisons RFC Bristol’s first gay and gay-friendly rugby team is always looking for new members, players and supporters. Everyone welcome regardless of experience or ability. Call 07831 454 991 www.bisonsrfc.co.uk CycleOut Bristol CycleOut Bristol is a lesbian, gay, bisexual and trangender leisure cycling club for Bristol and surrounding area. Visit our website or email for further information. cycleoutbristol@live.co.uk Bristol Panthers Bristol’s Premier Gay friendly football team. Orignally set up on 2000 reformed in 2009, will be playing in the GFSN national cup in 2010-2011 to contact check out www.bristolpanthers.co.uk The Gay Outdoor Club For gay men and women and their friends. It has national membership and local groups all around the country. Most members go for the regular walking events, but there are also groups within GOC based around specific activities For information www.goc.org.uk Women’s Ultimate Frisbee Team (Open to all women) A new fast paced sport. for more details, e-mail mellissa_warren@ hotmail.com for more info Badminton group Kingsdown Sports Centre every Saturday from 4pm to 6pm, not a beginners group but you don’t have to be brilliant either! Call Alison on 0117 9714818 or e-mail aliwatt@hotmail.co.uk for more info
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Listings: Social Tallulah Theatre A new community theatre group for women who love women. A drama and performance group meeting weekly in the heart of Bristol. If you have little or no experience of acting/performing don’t let this put you off. The group is run by professional director and performer Lou Barrett and each week there will be drama games, situation drama, role play & script work. Each term the group will work towards a public performance. Tallulah Theatre was created as a safe space for lesbian, bisexual, transgender or questioning women to tell stories and develop our artistic community. To get involved and find out more please email Lou direct: louise(at) prettygoodgirl.com LGBT Reading Group Mixed group which meets the last Tuesday of the month at Bedminster Library 6-7pm. Contact them via the library website Gay Men’s Book Group We meet monthly at a member’s flat in the centre of Bristol to discuss a book written by a gay author or about gay themes. We are currently very mixed in age and background. Anyone is free to choose a book but they don’t necessarily have to introduce it themselves. Discussions are quite lively and new members would be welcome. For information bristolbookclub@hotmail.co.uk No longer running : The Rhapsody group no longer meets but if you are a Black and minority ethnic lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender person and want to talk to or meet others please contact the Forum who can put you in touch with someone. Pink Parents no longer seems to be contactable and the website cannot be found. If you have new contact details for the group please let the office know. GLAFF no longer seems to be running - are there any other support groups for gay / lesbian people who need help with drugs and alcohol problems? Let us know at the office.
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Pride today – proud tomorrow
Simon Nelson Pride Chair
My involvement in Pride Bristol goes back some time, however Bristol City Council's and the equality team have been involved from the start. Pride has grown organically, from the initial discussion with community members about the need for a free, diverse and inclusive Pride event to the final result that we have today: an event that attempts to capture and celebrate the many communities that are LGBT. The Council has provided financial support to assist in pump-priming Pride. A process of using both financial support in the intial stage of Pride’s development along with the far greater contribution of officer time. Crucially the task of fudraising has to continue to ensure Pride’s future and the need for continued pooling of resources from the private, public and voluntary sectors will be key.
The initial meetings of Pride held at various venues mustered a great deal of enthusiasm from members of the community and beyond. People brought their ideas, their time and hopefully their commitment to be involved in a number of different ways. It was after these initial meetings that I volunteered to support the Community Tent and thus became the lead co-ordinator for this area of Pride. Whilst trying to capture the breadth of organisations, voluntary and statutory and at the same time raise funds to support this area of Pride, I’m very aware of the limits to making this area as inclusive as I believe it could be! That said I do think the hard work - no, the exceptionally hard work, that has been shown by all those involved in Pride is quite amazing. The fact that some have been critical of Pride indicates that people do care for such an event. It is also testament to the Pride Committee’s efforts to be as inclusive as possible. The fact that over 200 people (all volunteers) have given their time for free to make the event possible is testament to what can be achieved with the support of different people - gay and straight. No Pride will ever be perfect and, in any case, I don’t know what constitutes a successful Pride, perhaps 10,000 people, perhaps a trouble free event who knows. What I do know is that for the past year hundreds of people have given their time and hundreds more have helped to raise funds to support Pride.
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The future and sustainability of Pride, now, lies in developing the event to ensure that it listens and responds to its own community so that it is able to recruit people with the right skills who are willing and able to contribute to its future. I hope that everyone can find something that will appeal to them over the week of the 14th -21st. I also very much hope that, moving forward, Pride continues to communicate with, listen to and act upon the voices of the community they serve. This can only be achieved through the involvement of members of the community, whomsoever those people may be. If there is something that you want in or at Pride that isn’t there, how much are you prepared to work to ensure that it’s a part of Pride in the future? Have a great Pride - what ever you do!
Simon Nelson, Chair of Pride Bristol www.pridebristol.com
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Community: Politics Politics
Welcome to the New look Outburst part of this is the new politics section. The section will grow over time focusing on all the different political stand points, some which you may agree with and others which may make your blood boil. The Focus of this section is to enable us all to understand why LGBT people vote and believe in different things. First of this issue will ask why be a Liberal Democrat? In view of this who better to start than one of Bristol own Gay MP’s Stephen Williams. “I’ve always been clear that I’m a Liberal Democrat MP who happens to be gay. But I have a public platform so I have used it to promote gay rights and to speak about my own experiences. In Parliament I have raised homophobic bullying and hosted events for gay charities. I think the gay scene in Bristol is really coming together now, with various networking events and at last a Bristol Pride, which I hope will become a popular annual event.” We are looking for LGBT people to contribute to this section so not only do we have politians view points on their politics and themselves but profiles on everyone. Please email admin@bristol-lgb-forum.org.uk
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Culture: Art David Thompson received recognition for his painting already at an early age, receiving royal thanks for the portrait he had painted of the Queen at the age of seven. Since then, he has gone from strength to strength, winning art competitions in London and selling his first works as a teenager. At 17, David gained experience working for various clients, illustration studios & publishers, before going on to spend ten years in graphic design and illustration studios. All the while he continued his painting and exhibited annually to a worldwide audience. Today, David is focussed on his contemporary impressionistic painting, drawing inspiration from everyday life. His figurative pieces featuring in the ‘Naked Truths’ exhibition at View Art Gallery reflect a charming innocence with a sensitive use of a gentle palette and subtle blend of tone and shape. The undercurrent theme running through the work revolves around a deeper commentary on our attitude to sexuality. See David Thompson’s paintings at View Art Gallery until Sept 11. We are open from 11-6 Wednesday to Saturday, and 12-4 on Sunday,
The main gallery is wheelchair friendly.
www.viewartgallery.co.uk
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Culture: Travel Budapest This July I had the pleasure of going on a friend’s birthday trip to Budapest and in summation WOW... Not having been there before we discovered it was an amazing place for so many different reasons. The trip was a long weekend get away. We stayed in a 4 Star hotel for £75 each in total (Travel Zoo) and the flights were £110 return with Ryan Air flying from Bristol Airport.
Hotel Zara Budapest
We found staying in the Pest part of the City was the best choice for access and convenience.
Budapest Parliment The City Budapest is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and a World Heritage site. Any visitor to the city will not take long to realise why, with street after street of some of the most beautiful examples of design why Budapest would not make any city green with envy. Budapest is made up of 3 cities Buda and O’buda on the west bank of the Danube and Pest on the east bank.
Saint Stephen’s Basilica 24
Culture : Travel
New York Hotel Cafe ATB & Markus Schulz at Rio Club We found the city very friendly and openminded to LGBT people.There was a group of 12 of us all from different parts of the LGBT rainbow and straight friends too. We were able to act as we wished with no comments or stares. When abroad you always have to be mindful of the different cultures. In Budapest men and women are very affectionate with each other so do not read too much into this as the raydar may be off :-). Well enough of the culture what about the nightlife. All I can say is amazing. The city has something for all from chilled cafe’s to outstanding night clubs. Clubs to attend are Rio, £8 to get in (approx). This open air club has all the fun of Ibiza with out the price tag. Ship Island is another one an island on th Danube filled with Bars and Clubs. Most people speak English, or Italian is a great back up, however not many people around from the UK. All Clubs and streets are great as in four days we did not see one fight. Must sees. Start you trip with a boat trip down the Danube great way to see both side of the river and to get your bearings. The Parliment , Saint Stephen’s Basilica, The New York Cafe, The Palace, The Spas and the Labarinth plus so much more but will leave that to you .....Have fun and travel safe
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In profile: Youth Welcome to In Profile. This part of Outburst is a look into the Groups, Agencies, Communities etc which make up or contribute to LGBT Bristol. As with all of Outburst we welcome articles from all members of LGBT Bristol to contribute to this section. You may work with LGBT persons, run a group or just have something you would like to say and voice your opinion on a matter you are passionate about.
LGBT Youth Visit to Scotland
Myself and nine other young LGBT people applied to the Youth Opportunities bid in 2009, to be able to go to visit LGBT Youth Scotland. After the young people of Bristol decided this was a worthy cause, we flew out to Scotland to find out how things work there. We soon found out that LGBT Youth Scotland is a very large charity organisation, spread over the whole of Scotland, doing things on a much bigger scale. We found out about what they do, which includes running youth groups in most major cities, running workshops within many schools on a regular basis, facilitating the LGBT National Youth council and running Campaigns. One of the campaigns we learnt of was the ‘Goody Hoodies’, a very interesting story of older generations making uninformed decisions which would have devastating effects on the people it affected and those young people using their newly informed of rights to campaign and make change. My personal favourite session was the training on how to go into Secondary schools and do peer workshops, which emphasised that it is best to not just tell people what to think but help them understand. We all learnt a lot but also had lots of fun, it was definitely well worth it. Lucas Abedecian
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In Profile : Youth NUS LGBT The NUS (National Union of Students) LGBT campaign is an autonomous liberation campaign run by and for LGBT Students who are at an institution that is part of the NUS. The aim and structure of the campaign is set at an annual conference where LGBT delegates, elected by LGBT peers, vote on motions submitted and their amendments. At the same time the two part time officers, one woman’s and one open, and the fourteen members of committee are elected. There are different caucuses, which are primarily for underrepresented members of NUS LGBT, which include Women’s, Bi and FE (Further Education). At some caucuses, there are elections for positions on the campaigns committee, I was nominated and stood for election at the FE Caucus and got the position. The reason FE has a caucus and two positions on the committee is because despite more than 70% of the NUS’s members being from Colleges and sixth forms, there is only around 30% of members attending events and being active. The two members on committee are there to make sure FE is considered within committee decisions, to promote LGBT within FE and to encourage LGBT participation and activism within colleges and sixth forms. It will be a very demanding and require a lot of travel to all corners of the UK, but it will be well worth it and I look forward to the next year on the Committee. Lucas Abedecian – NUS LGBT FE Rep (PC)
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In profile: Parenting Parenting : Bristol Playbus Let’s All Play sessions Lets All Play is a new inclusive play project run by Bristol Playbus in partnership with Bristol City Council’s Play Service and Disabled Children’s Service and funded by Aiming High for Disabled Children. Playbus want to ensure Disabled Children and their families experience some of the best opportunities to play at Bristol City Council’s unique adventure playgrounds. Between us, our experienced playworkers have worked with children in a wide range of settings. Our friendly, adaptable approach will ensure everyone feels welcome. Activities also include music, cooking, arts and crafts. Play sessions are FREE to ALL children and young people aged 5-15 years. Parents and carers are also welcome to stay and play or come back later if your child is happy for you to leave them. All children are welcome to come along to any adventure playground session. However, during ‘Lets All Play’ sessions additional playworkers will be available to ensure we are able to meet all children’s specific requirements. Contact Ruth below for further info. Bristol’s Adventure Play Grounds Staffed by qualified and experienced playworkers, the adventure playgrounds are inclusive play facilities for children 5 – 15 years providing space and an opportunity to play in a safe and stimulating environment. There are Adventure Playgrounds in the following areas : Easton, Lockleaze, St Paul’s, Southmead and Windmill Hill.
For times contact Ruth at Playbus on 0117 9551561 www.goplacestoplay.org
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In profile: Equalities Equalities Representation There are 14 Neighbourhood Partnerships across Bristol that meet regularly throughout the year, which until now have not had dedicated equalities representatives attending. To change this, the council have arranged for 2 places on each of the partnerships for 2 people to represent the views of equalities groups. The roles and responsibilities of the representatives include : • ensuring that Neighbourhood Partnerships (NPs) are aware of and fulfil their responsibilities regarding access and involvement of all equalities communities; • representing and promoting the views of equalities communities at NP meetings; • ensuring that minority as well as majority views and needs are heard and taken into account.
If you are interested in being an Equalities Representative
please email or call Gillian Douglas at the Bristol City Council Equalities Team gillian.douglas@bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2664 To find out more about the Neighbourhood Partnerships visit the Bristol Partnership website : bristolpartnership.org/neighbourhood-partnerships
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In profile: Equalities Bristol City Council Consultations Throughout the year the council sends out a number of consultations on it’s services to ensure that their services are the best they can be. They are not good at including LGBT perspectives and we have been working hard to try to change this. They have asked us to ask you – our members and the public - to volunteer to engage in consultations that are of interest to you. If you are interested in engaging, and noting that many may not be out in public and wish to remain anonymous, the Forum has offered to hold your email in a list, so that we can send the consultation to you and collate your responses and send them anonymously to the Council. If you would like to take part in consultations please email sarah@bristol-lgb-forum. org.uk with “Consultation” in the subject line to register your interest. To find out what consultations are currently being undertaken visit www.bristol.gov.uk/ccm/navigation/council-and-democracy/consultations
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In profile: THT Health
HIV – it’s time to talk, together, to test!
There are now more people than ever living with HIV in Bristol and the surrounding areas. Despite the advancement in treatments for the virus there is still no cure or vaccine and it is unlikely there will be one for many years to come. Statistically around a 1/3 of people with HIV don’t know they have the virus. So last year as part of World AIDS Day, Terrence Higgins Trust (formally Aled Richards Trust) the local sexual health and HIV charity in partnership with South Gloucestershire and North Somerset PCT and Councils launched a 6 week bus campaign highlighting this very issue. With the strap; Every hour someone in our world DIES from AIDS Every minute someone in South Gloucestershire LIVES with HIV Every second someone puts themselves at risk off getting HIV The only way of knowing you have HIV is to take a 20min HIV test. The bus campaign coincided with the launch of a second Fastest clinic operated by the THT where individuals who may have put themselves at risk of HIV can get an immediate test and results available within 20 minutes. The new clinic at the Park Centre on the High Street, Kingswood operates every Wednesday evening from 4.30 until 6.30 and offers a completely confidential service with pre and post test counselling as standard and compliments the clinic at the THT main office in Old Market which operates every Monday from 5-7.30pm. The sooner someone knows they have HIV the better their chances of living a normal a life as possible will be. Whilst we continue to educate our ever changing community and others on how to prevent HIV we also know that the stigma of HIV continues to be a challenge for us all now and in the future For further information on all prevention, care and support services offered by THT West or to volunteer your services call 0117 955 1000 or email info.west@tht.org.uk
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Advertise with us This is the first print run in the new small A5 size, we hope you like it. We are developing the look and content to reflect what people want to read about. Headings for various sections can include, Health, Education, Scene, Groups, Listings, Social, Forum, Events, womens, mens, culture, travel, money, fashion.......etc. This could be your Advert We reach hundreds of LGBT households, community and advice centres, hospitals, clinics, health centres and Council offices. Want to know our rates? Ring 01173534621 email admin@bristol-lgb-forum.org.uk
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Listings: LGBT Events Halcyon www.halcyonnetwork.com We are a not-for-profit organisation set up by a committee of business professionals within the South West. Our aim is simple - to help you generate strong LGBT business connections at a senior level within a confidential and supportive environment. We are, therefore, exclusively for senior LGBT decision makers, Directors, Business Owners, Aspiring business leaders and Entrepreneurs.
Wonky www.clubwonky.com “for homos who hate hard house”....a gay club night. BUT our music policy is anything goes. mainly we play dancefloor indie, sleazy electro, camp 80s and genius pop
Memebers Bristol www.members-bristol.co.uk A place for gay male professionals to meet and network. An friendly evening for men from all walks of life and ages
Liberty www.libertybristol.co.uk is Bristol’s only Women Club night. Held @ TOTOs, on the first Saturday of every month. With women DJ’s and guest appearances.
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Listings: LGBT Events Come to Daddy www.cometodaddyclub.co.uk We are a club night for bears, cubs, chubs, chasers, chunky guys, skins, blokes, admirers... in fact anybody who wants a men only place to have a drink, a boogie, some fun or simply a good night out with friends.
Mutiny www.clubmutiny.com Gaga playing kiss-catch with Crystal Castles. Your Temper Trapped behind the bike sheds, Diana Ross on a rope swing, and M.I.A Cats-Cradling Florence with gay abandon. Our club is your playground. E-N-T-E-R. Gear Bristol gearbristol.co.uk Gear Bristol is a Fetish Club for Men Are YOU looking for fun in your GEAR? Then GEAR is looking for YOU! Primal www.clubprimal.co.uk Primal is the south west’s biggest gay fetish night offering a fun and pleasant environment for our members and their guests to chill out and enjoy themselves.
Sugar Rush www.mandalyns.com Lesbian Night in Bath at Mandalyns pub Opening night is Sunday 3rd OCT 2010, there will be a female stripper! It will be monthly first Sunday.
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Listings: Venues Scene Old Market Tavern www.omtbristol.co.uk The Old Market Tavern is a traditional pub in the centre of Bristol offering a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with a lively beat at weekends. We open at 11.30am every day and stay open all day long. Just come along! We’ll close at 11pm on school nights but stay open until 2am on Friday and Saturday. 29-30 Old Market Street BRISTOL, BS2 0HB 0117 922 6123
The Lounge loungebristol.com The Lounge is a mixed venue with a new, modern feel and dĂŠcor to it. M 12pm - 11pm T 12pm - 11pm W 12pm - 11pm T 12pm - 11pm F 12pm - 1am S 12pm - 1am Sun 12pm - 11pm
The Palace The Palace is recognised as the gateway to the Village, with an interior fit for a queen, come and join the camp fun. The Palace is an amazing venue ran by Gareth and his team with a hugely welcoming atmostphere Opening Hours: Mon to Wed7:00pm-11:30pm Thu 7:00pm-11:30pm Fri 7:00pm-02:00am Sat 7:00pm-02:00am Sun 3:00pm - 10pm
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Listings: Venues Scene The Bristol Bear Bar Another venue ran by Gareth and his team. The Bristol Bear Bar is the Uk only purpose built bar for Bears although everyone is welcome at this venue and it is wheelchair friendly as it is on one level. Mon- Thur 19:00 till 23:30 Fri & Sat 19:00 till 02:00 Sun 15:00 till 23:00
The Retreat www.flamingosbristol.com The Retreat is without doubt, Bristol’s busiest gay bar. Opened in Dec 2008, the bar boasts cutting edge technology and style, with something on every night of the week, and some amazing drinks offers to boot. The Retreat is Open & days a week check website for details
Flamingos Welcome to the long awaited new site for Flamingos, the biggest gay club in Bristol, and the South West of England. Wed 10pm - 3am Thur Closed Fri 10pm - 4am. Saturday 10pm -5am.
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Listings: Venues Scene The Old Castle Green This is a stand pub which is gay has a intimate enviroment that welcomes all people of all walks of like and ages Opening times Standard pub hours
The Village Sauna Bristols only Gay/Bi mens Sauna check website for details cottagesauna.com
Mandalyn’s. Baths Only LGBT Pub 13, Fountain Buildings Bath Avon BA1 5DX. www.mandalyns.com
The Suite Bath Baths only Gay/Bi mens Sauna check website for details www.thesuitebath.com
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Listings: Venues Scene The Pinapple The Pineapple, tends to be one of the more popular gay pubs, where scenegoers often try to go before heading to either the Shilling or Vibes. Recently redecorated, the Pineapple provides a good gay grounding for a night out in Bristol. With a mainly younger crowd, perhaps weighted slightly toward the males and occasional live DJ’s. 37 St Georges Road, Bristol. BS1 5UU 0117 907 1162
The Griffin Legend has it that The Griffin used to be the haunt for all of the luvvies that made the short walk or stagger up from the Colston Hall. The Griffin underwent a lavish transformation, 41 Colston Street, Bristol. BS1 5AP 0117 908 6731
The Queen Shilling One of Bristols oldest Gay venues but one that is much loved. A very popular venue for everyone from students to party people of all ages. Open most nights of the week but busieest from Thursday till Sunday
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GenderJourney Transforming Bristol LGB Forum At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in November 2008 the Bristol LGB Forum made a commitment to explore the feasibility and appropriateness of developing to include transgender people as members of the LGB Forum. Essentially should the Forum become the Bristol LGBT Forum? Informal discussions took place during 2009 and Sarah, the Forums Development Worker, attended excellent initial training delivered by Gendered Intelligence (www.genderedintelligence.co.uk). The Forum also began to create dialogue with existing transgender members around this topic and to specifically develop links with transgender support and social groups. At the AGM in October 2009 the Management Committee passed a motion committing the Bristol LGB Forum to a change in name and constitution should the membership agree. This decision is up to you. This is your Forum created by everything that you all put into it. The Forum has started planning an open event for October 2010, co-delivered with Gendered Intelligence, to explore the topic and hopefully answer the many questions that arise over gender issues. All members will receive a copy of the proposed changes to the Constitution, a voting slip and information concerning the pros and cons associated with the change. This open event will be followed by an Annual General Meeting (AGM) called by the Management Committee where the changes to the constitution will be put to a vote and postal votes will be counted. At the AGM a successful ballot would need to be (67%) of all votes cast in favour of the changes. Votes can be cast by postal vote or by voting in person at the meeting. Members will be notified by post shortly. If this is a topic that matters to you, please contact me, I am very interested in hearing all opinions and would be delighted if any members would like to join me on the Transformation Working Group. Logan Blackburn Bristol LGB Forum Co-Chair & Transformation Working Group Convenor
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Bristol LGB Forum CREATE Centre Smeaton Road, Bristol BS1 6XN 0117 353 4621 Funded by Bristol City Council and The Equalities and Inclusion Team