2020 Election Special: Vote for Joe!

Contents

October 29, 2020

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Volume 27 Issue 23

GALA’S BOLD MOVE

GALA Hispanic is the first D.C. theater to resume live, in-person performances since COVID lockdown.

By André Hereford

VOTE FOR JOE!

The former Vice President’s calm, even-keeled demeanor and his ability to empathize with suffering Americans make him our choice to lead the nation out of the pandemic.

By the Editors of Metro Weekly

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TWICE IS NICE

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm brings the laughs and the cringe in equal measure.

By André Hereford

SPOTLIGHT: WIRED FOR WEIRD: BOULET BROTHERS p.5 LONE WOLF p.9 AGELIKA’S PRIVATE SCREENING EXPERIENCES p.11 SARAH COOPER: EVERYTHING’S FINE p.12 STEVIE NICKS: 24 KARAT GOLD TOUR p.19 PATTY GRIFFIN LIVESTREAMS p.20 JANE FRANKLIN DANCE: HIDDEN TALENTS p.21 CRYSTALLINE AT ARTECHOUSE p.22 FIELD OF SCREAMS MARYLAND p.23 SAVOR: ELECTION NIGHT COCKTAILS p.25 PROPER 21K’S LIMITLESS BRUNCH p.26 FOOD & FRIENDS “SLICE OF LIFE” PIE SALE p.28 ELECTION 2020: EVERYBODY VOTE NOW p.37 SUPREME FARCE p.39 BIDEN OR BUST: A METRO WEEKLY FORUM p.43 FILM: BAD HAIR p.65 RETROSCENE: HALLOWEEN 2001-2019 p.69 LAST WORD p.75

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Washington, D.C.’s Best LGBTQ Magazine for 26 Years Editorial Editor-in-Chief Randy Shulman Art Director Todd Franson Online Editor at metroweekly.com Rhuaridh Marr Senior Editor John Riley Contributing Editors André Hereford, Doug Rule Senior Photographers Ward Morrison, Julian Vankim Contributing Illustrators David Amoroso, Scott G. Brooks Contributing Writers Craig Bowman, Sean Maunier, Kate Wingfield Webmaster David Uy Production Assistant Julian Vankim Sales & Marketing Publisher Randy Shulman National Advertising Representative Rivendell Media Co. 212-242-6863 Distribution Manager Dennis Havrilla Patron Saint Ruth Bader Ginsburg Cover Photography Gage Skidmore During the pandemic please send all mail to: Metro Weekly PO Box 11559 - Washington, D.C. 20008 • 202-638-6830 All material appearing in Metro Weekly is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. Metro Weekly assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials submitted for publication. All such submissions are subject to editing and will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Metro Weekly is supported by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles or advertising in Metro Weekly is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such person or organization.

© 2020 Jansi LLC.

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Spotlight: Film

Wired for Weird

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BOULET BROTHERS

With a new two-hour Dragula special, the decidedly offbeat Boulet Brothers offer a pandemic-spurred Halloween treat. By Doug Rule

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ROWING UP AS A GAY FREAK IN D.C., the only place I ever felt comfortable was the DC Eagle,” says drag performer Dracmorda, or Drac for short. “I wasn't a biker or a leather person or anything like

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that, but I had a giant Mohawk. I was so weird looking. And that's the only place that people just wouldn't look at me like a total freak.” Drac pauses, then adds with a chuckle: “Granted, you could barely see in there — the lights were out.

But still.”

Three decades later, Drac is now one-half of the Boulet Brothers, which TimeOut magazine has referred to as “LA’s naughty nightlife kingpins.” Together with Swanthula, Drac’s partner in life and drag, the Boulet “brothers” first came to attention producing nightlife parties, including one of Los Angeles’ biggest annual Halloween balls (which would have celebrated its 20th anniversary this year if not for the pandemic) and also what Swanthula, or Swan, describes as a “super punk rock drag party [set] in a leather bar.” Named Dragula, the party has evolved in recent years into an increasingly popular reality TV competition series.

“Our drag is a culmination of everything we love: horror, fantasy, performance, presentation, and production,” says Drac. He cites “villains from He-Man cartoons and comic book characters” as primary inspiration for the duo’s eccentric, over-the-top looks. When asked about the striking way their eyes often appear to be irisless, Swan teases, “It actually reflects our extraterrestrial origins.”

The Boulet form of drag is decidedly not like the exaggeratedly glamorous, sassy, and feminine drag that has become mainstream in the past decade.

Drac characterizes that as “very whitewashed and very safe, family-friendly and non-threatening: ‘Here's a tongue pop with a blond wig and I look like a girl.’ [Or] ‘we're pretty white muscle gays that say quirky, snappy things.’”

The Dragula party was created in part as a reaction to that, a place where one could “be queer and unapologetically adult and raw, and talk about real things that are happening with

them — sexually, politically, all those things. It was very freeing for people.” Dragula, the show, is similar in spirit: wild, edgy, and open to any and all along the LGBTQ spectrum and beyond.

Thwarted by the pandemic to produce a new, fourth season of Dragula in time for Halloween, the Boulets instead decided to pursue an idea that had been on the backburner: making a Dragula spinoff that’s part documentary, part reality competition. The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula: Resurrection provides “a more in-depth look” at a handful of past Dragula contestants who are getting another chance to compete and shine.

“When we bring them here and they compete, you're only seeing them in a limited capacity.

And you don't get the chance to see who they really are necessarily,” says Drac. “The focus is on the runway and the performance and the competition. [We] go to their house, see where they live, see what their friends and family are like, and their actual real-life experiences.”

Traveling cross-country to shoot during the pandemic offered its own kind of horror for the Boulets. “It was really scary to see the way that other places and other states were not giving a fuck, it seemed — restaurants were open and people were not wearing masks and eating inside,” says Swan, who references the name of Dragula’s elimination round to add, “It was almost like our Extermination Challenge. We were really putting our necks on the line to create this content.

And there was definitely a danger element to it.”

In addition to planning for season four of Dragula, casting for which opens on Halloween, the Boulets are exploring other new pursuits. “Honestly, we're just getting started,” Drac says. “We have so many ideas. We're working on something scripted. We're working on a book. We're working on a movie.... I feel like we're giving a safe home for outcasts and freaks, and we're just going to keep doing what we're doing.”

The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula: Resurrection is available on the AMC Network horror streaming service, Shudder. Visit www.shudder.com.

For more on the Boulets or Dragula, follow @bouletbrothers on Instagram and Twitter, or visit www.bouletbrothersdragula.com.

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Spotlight: Film

Lone Wolf

Martell

The True Adventures of Wolfboy explores transgender self-acceptance through a modern fairy-tale odyssey. By André Hereford

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VERY KID IS DIFFERENT, YET SOME kids are different in ways they struggle to understand or that the world doesn’t readily accept. A moving film fable of just such a kid, The True Adventures of Wolfboy tells the story of teenager Paul, covered head-to-toe in hair, living with hypertrichosis, informally known as “werewolf syndrome.” Portrayed by Jaeden Martell of It movie fame, Paul sets off in search of his longlost mother, and hopefully some answers to help make sense of his identity.

The film, directed by Martin Krejcí, combines elements of fantasy with cold, hard reality, and functions on two levels, says screenwriter Olivia Dufault. “I think people could watch the movie

and be like, 'Oh, yes, the hair covering Paul's face is an allegory for just being an outsider and an outcast, and is representative of anything that makes us feel marginalized in society.’ But at the same time, it is for me, absolutely, very specifically an allegory for being trans and also the process of coming to terms with being trans.”

Dufault, who is transgender, started writing the script several years ago, prior to her stint as a writer and executive producer on FX’s sci-fi drama Legion. At the time, she was a 27-year-old playwright living in New York City, and “really grappling with my gender,” she recalls. “And ultimately coming to the realization that I needed to transition in order to survive. And I was grapOCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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Spotlight: Film

pling with years and years of self-loathing and internalized transphobia that society had instilled in me over decades.”

Penning The True Adventures of Wolfboy was a therapeutic release. “In terms of having the opportunity to explore self-love and self-acceptance in a way that felt real to me, and felt like it was honest in depicting the challenges associated with it,” she says.

In the movie, Paul doesn’t face those challenges alone. He’s raised by a caring single dad, played by Chris Messina, and, along the boy’s rambling adventures he has the good fortune to meet Aristiana, a trans teen portrayed by Sophie Giannamore (Transparent). Dufault wanted to ensure that in Aristiana “we see a resilient, thriving young trans woman that could inspire young people, but could also inspire myself at that point in my life, when I was eager for those sorts of characters that I wanted to embody.”

Aristiana teaches Paul a thing or two about self-acceptance, and comes to his aid against

sinister carnival owner Mr. Silk (John Turturro), who’s sworn vengeance against the boy. “Mr. Silk definitely occupies the fairy tale villain role that we don't see as much, but which I love in some older children's movies, where they are sort of an embodiment of a lot of negative feeling,” says Dufault.

“They're a character, but they also exist as a sort of idea. And in this case, Mr. Silk was definitely the combination of every horrible thought I had about myself and every horrible kind of statement that society had made me internalize, or was sending me, regarding what I could do in my capabilities if I was to be perceived as a marginalized outsider in society. The idea that I would not be able to lead a successful life, that I wouldn't be able to be loved and have a home, and a community.

And so writing him was very much a process of dealing with those thoughts, and then using characters like Paul and Aristiana to combat them and destroy them, ideally.”

The True Adventures of Wolfboy is available on-demand and on digital starting October 30.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANGELIKA MOSAIC

Spotlight: Film

Angelika Mosaic

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Angelika’s Private Screening Experiences

F YOU’RE LOOKING TO ADD A LITTLE variety to how you watch films — or just get out of the house — why not gather a group of your closest friends, family, or housemates and rent out a theater for an exclusive screening? That’s the premise behind the private cinema experiences offered at various Angelika Film Centers around the country, including the Mosaic in Fairfax, Va. For $150 plus a minimum of $20 in concessions, you and your group can choose among a lineup of curated films and select a set time that works for your group, and only your group, to come out and see it. An Angelika host will be on hand for additional food and drink orders.

The initial slate of “crowd-pleasing, entertaining, and uplifting” arthouse films, all with ratings above 90 percent on Rotten Tomatoes include Lucky Grandma, Sasie Sealy’s dark comedy, set in New York, about immigrant life, aging, and friendship and described as “a love letter to Chinatown and an homage to all the badass elderly women who inhabit it,” The Booksellers, a documentary from director D.W. Young and executive producer Parker Posey touted as a “must-see for

any lover [of] books — and a terrific documentary for collectors of any kind,” House of Cardin, a documentary that offers a rare glimpse into the life of Pierre Cardin and his influence on branding in the fashion world and beyond, Ella Fitzgerald: Just One of Those Things, a riveting documentary featuring never-before-seen images and unheard interviews to bring the late, great, grand dame of jazz to life, and Aviva, an impressionistic movie romance featuring choreography from a former member of Israeli’s Batsheva Dance Company and set in “a New York world of gender-fluid and frequently fully unclothed bodies.” Also available are popular seasonal and holiday titles including Beetlejuice, Ghostbusters, A Christmas Story, and Love Actually. You can also spring for one of the selections in Angelika’s annual Hitchcocktober series, including household Hitchcock names Psycho and The Birds.

The Angelika Mosaic is at 2911 District Ave. in Fairfax, Va. Cost is $150 for a group of no more than 10 people, plus either $20 for two medium popcorns and two sodas or $25 for two popcorns and two boozy beverages. Call 571-512-3301 or visit www.angelikablog.com/VIP to book. —Doug Rule OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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LACEY TERRELL-NETFLIX

Spotlight: Streaming

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Sarah Cooper: Everything’s Fine

OR MANY, WATCHING SARAH COOper lipsync to Donald Trump’s ramblings is the only way they can hear the president’s voice without wanting to scream. Or smash something. Or worse. Cooper’s genius short-form interpretations, which often play into the absurd, not only highlight the nonsensical gibberish of Trump’s interviews, press briefings, and campaign rallies, but also showcase her talents as both a comedian and an actress.

After parlaying her viral success into appearing at the DNC and guest-hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Cooper is now taking over Netflix with a new special, Everything’s Fine.

Directed by Russian Doll’s Natasha Lyonne and featuring an all-star cast including Fred Armisen, Maya Rudolph, Ben Stiller, Megan Thee Stallion, Jane Lynch, Jon Hamm, Aubrey PLa-

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Mirren and Cooper

za, Whoopi Goldberg, Winona Ryder, and even Dame Helen Mirren, Everything’s Fine casts Cooper as the host of morning talk show “Everything’s Fine,” cutting away from the studio to sketches, mockumentaries, and, yes, Trump adlibs — although here freed from Cooper’s home and instead taking place on golf courses, the Access Hollywood bus, and more.

Initial reviews are glowing, affirming that Cooper, who worked the stand-up circuit for years before finding viral success, has the talent to sustain her newfound fame. Whether she will spend the next four years creating more Trump videos, or instead get to give us more of her own voice, depends on what happens next week. In the meantime, Sarah Cooper: Everything’s Fine is available to stream now at www.netflix.com. —Rhuaridh Marr

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DANIEL MARTINEZ

Spotlight: Stage

El Perro del Hortelano

GALA’s Bold Move

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GALA Hispanic is the first D.C. theater to resume live, in-person performances since COVID lockdown. By André Hereford

N THE 45 YEARS OF MY CAREER, WITH GALA and starting GALA, there has never been a challenge as big as this one,” says Rebecca Read Medrano of preparing to resume live performances, before a limited audience, inside the company’s landmark Tivoli Theatre.

“This is really over the top,” continues the GALA Hispanic Theatre Co-founder and Executive Director. “Not just for the emotional and physical challenges of getting the space ready, meeting all the regulations of union requirements and the scientists, protecting the actors and having them tested every week, waiting for results, quarantining the rehearsal room, getting all the PPE, having multiple cleanings of the the-

ater, renovating the whole theater. It's been really an incredible voyage.”

Like companies all over the world, GALA was forced by the pandemic to halt live performances and cancel a portion of the 2019-2020 season. But the company, based in Columbia Heights, serves a civic role beyond just staging theater. “This community, the Latinx community, has been hit harder, just as the African-American has,” says Medrano. “They are used to coming as a family to GALA. The kids in our after-school program were used to coming there every single day. Now, they're doing everything virtual. They're tired of it. Some of them don't even have access to computers — they're single-parent families and have OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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DANIEL MARTINEZ

to depend on their mom's phones, for example.

So, for us, it's important that we continue to provide a safe place that will connect them to their culture and language and be uplifting and be a place to make them feel good.”

To that end, the company made prodigious use of the downtime, and a renovation grant from D.C. City Council, to complete planned restorations, as well as update to meet city and CDC requirements. “We basically had to get a whole new air system, new carpeting, new bathroom floors, deep clean all of the seats and put protection on the armrests,” Medrano says, noting that the process has offered a crash course in post-COVID safety and compliance. “We had to be project managers of crews to put in MERV-14 filters that have point-three microns. I mean, I learned more about this than I ever want to learn.”

In addition to fitting the space to meet technical requirements, GALA’s also done some redecorating, with a new granite-top bar, redesigned lighting, “and more atmosphere in the lobby,” says Medrano. “The big, wonderful treat is that finally that historic dome from 1922 — which we had restored almost all of it, but a good portion was not finished — we've finished doing all of the ornamental restorations with the gilding on the roof, and on the pilasters that had not been finished since we first opened in '05.”

While the company couldn’t redo the stage, audiences certainly will notice a redo in seating —

capped at 25 tickets per show — and operations.

“It will be different, because we don't have paper tickets anymore. People will just show their telephones because we're trying to reduce any passing of paper that could have germs. We're debating about how many programs to make available. We would try to give everybody a virtual program. But if that doesn't happen, we will have some printed programs available. And then, of course, when they come in, they'll be asked to have their temperature taken, have some questions asked, and be asked to leave their mask on.”

The theater also will require contact information to pass along to the city for COVID contact tracing. “So all of those are new things to expect, but hopefully everybody will really be delighted with the restoration, and just the experience of going back to live theater,” Medrano says.

Opening with Lope de Vega’s classic Baroque comedy El Perro del Hortelano, adapted by Paco Gámez, GALA plans to continue a full season.

But that will depend on being approved each week by the city for a waiver renewal. And it will depend on the good faith and support of their audience. Medrano admits that not everyone considers GALA’s reopening a wise move. “It's very strange,” she says, “because I feel that sometimes people aren’t quite transparent that are saying, 'Oh, that's so brave and courageous of you.' Secretly they're thinking, 'These guys are crazy.

Nobody else is opening. Why are they opening?'

I've gotten those kinds of vibes.

“But we feel we're prepared. We're going to track everybody. And hopefully we'll serve as a pilot for other groups, to see how they want to open. Because I think even though other theaters haven't announced, and maybe don't have dates, they probably will still have to go through these same hoops, because I don't think the pandemic will be that different. It may be less critical and maybe people will have more capacity to open. But I think they're still going to have to lay the groundwork.”

El Perro del Hortelano (The Dog in the Manger) runs through November 22 at GALA Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW. Performances are in Spanish with English surtitles. Tickets are $20 to $45.

Call 202-234-7174 or visit www.galatheatre.org.

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TRAFALGAR RELEASING

Spotlight: Music

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Stevie Nicks: 24 Karat Gold Tour

HE PREEMINENT ROCK DIVA WITH one of the most recognizable voices in all of pop and rock — a gritty, growly alto that takes no prisoners — is offering a gift to fans with a concert documentary featuring filmed footage from two stops on her 67-date tour in 2016 and 2017. Stevie Nicks — Live in Concert: The 24 Karat Gold Tour offers a virtual front row seat as the multi-Grammy-winning artist and two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Famer performs as well as shares details about what inspired many of her biggest hits, whether as a solo artist or with her band Fleetwood Mac — a setlist that includes “Rhiannon,” “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around,” “Edge of Seventeen,” “Stand Back,” “Gypsy,” and “Landslide,” plus the first-ever live

recording of “Crying In The Night.”

“The 24 Karat Gold Tour was my all-time favorite tour,” Nicks says in an official release. “I not only got to sing my songs but I was able to tell their stories for the first time. I love having the opportunity to share this concert with my fans.”

Directed and produced by Joe Thomas, the film premiered with two screenings last week at select cinemas, drive-ins, and exhibition spaces around the world. This Friday, Oct. 30, the digital version debuts on all major streaming platforms while Target becomes the exclusive seller of a 2 CD set with “Limited Edition Album Art” ($13.99). Vinyl sets will also be released and available at various merchants before the end of the year. Visit www.StevieNicksFilm.com. —DR OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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MICHAEL WILSON

Spotlight: Music

Patty Griffin Livestreams

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VER THE COURSE OF THE NEXT month, Patty Griffin, the 56-year-old LGBTQ ally, activist, and two-time Grammy-winning folk singer-songwriter, will perform three livestream concerts from the famous Continental Club in her home base of Austin, Texas — all conceived as a way to support live music venues around the country that have been dealt a “devastating” blow as a result of the ongoing pandemic.

In an official statement, Griffin cites the “job losses on so many levels” that have resulted from putting live music on indefinite hiatus since the start of COVID-19 more than eight months ago, from those who work and run the venues, to the “many musicians like myself who have depended on them for years, to not only connect us to income in our touring work but also for the spirit they extend to us in each community [as] places where live music has been loved and nurtured....

I am hoping with these shows to raise aware-

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Griffin

ness, and maybe a little funding, too, for some of these places that are struggling to stay afloat in this shutdown.”

D.C.’s 9:30 Club and Virginia’s Birchmere are among 18 such venues nationwide that will receive partial proceeds from Griffin’s livestreams, which she’s planning as three “completely unique” concerts. She’s got a rich and diverse repertoire from which to draw from, including Grammy-winning work in gospel and folk, hits on the country and pop charts, and songs providing the soundtrack to pivotal scenes in popular films and TV shows. The Saturday night concerts, starting at 8 p.m. on Nov. 7, Nov. 21, and Dec. 5, will air on the livestream platform Mandolin, touted as offering “industry-leading concert-quality audio” and full HD video. Tickets are $25 per stream or $60 for a three-stream pass, with add-ons of a limited-quantity journal, a bandana, and t-shirt also available. Visit www.pattygriffin.com. —DR

PHOTO COURTESY OF JANE FRANKLIN DANCE

Spotlight: Dance

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Jane Franklin Dance: Hidden Talents

AVE YOU DISCOVERED SOMETHING about yourself that you didn’t already know?” That’s the question at the heart of a new piece from Jane Franklin Dance. Hidden Talents showcases some of the new skills, new habits, and rediscovered abilities that have emerged during a pandemic in which alone time, social isolation, and social distance have been prioritized over the human predilection for social interaction and engagement. Performers “on video” will face off with those in real-time in an exploration of COVID-19-inspired themes including Knit, Work-Out, Bake, and Tap. The new work will be presented as a livestream package of performances from the Arlington-based dance troupe captured at Inner Ear Studios, the Arlington recording studio that helped put D.C.’s post-punk scene on the nation-

al map as the initial recording home for such notable bands as Fugazi, Minor Threat, and the Foo Fighters. The program will also feature 1 X 4, a work of dance solos captured on video from four perspectives simultaneously, and Inner Ear, a video tour of the studio’s physical space, including its “nifty alley adjacent to the back door.” The lineup of performers includes Philip Baraoidan, Kelsey Rohr, Amy Scaringe, Brynna Wilder with Carly Johnson, Roxann Morgan Rowley, Nicole McClam, Emily Crews, and Rachel Scaringe. A Q&A follows. Saturday, Nov. 7, at 7:30 p.m. Suggested donation of $10 to support both Jane Franklin Dance and Inner Ear Studios, with registration required to obtain the Zoom link; donations of $20 and above come with a VIP code for a Vimeo on Demand performance. Visit www.janefranklin.com. —DR OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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PHOTO COURTESY OF ARTECHOUISE

Spotlight: Exhibition

Crystalline at ArTecHouse

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LTHOUGH 2020 HAS BEEN ANYthing but restful, ArTecHouse aims to inspire a sense of calm and tranquility with its final exhibition of the year. The focus is on Classic Blue, or Pantone 19-4052, designated as Pantone’s Color of the Year 2020. Crystalline explores the color’s dependable qualities and its connection with earth and crystals through a surreal, technology-powered exploration of an illusory, blue-hued castle. Guests can learn more about themselves and their surroundings as they discover “creative curiosities” and summon “the sights, sounds, and feelings of Classic Blue” in each room of the castle, designed as a place offering “refuge from the everyday.”

“Before 2020 even began, Pantone selected Classic Blue as the color of the year because they saw it as the hue to sustain us during a time of change,” says Sandro Keserelidze, ArTecHouse’s co-founder and chief creative officer. “2020 end-

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ed up bringing changes no one expected, making the hue of Classic Blue, and the qualities it represents, more relatable now than ever before.

We couldn’t think of a more timeless and timely theme to end the year and launch a new chapter of experiences.”

The earth-centric examination of Classic Blue in ArTecHouse’s original D.C. location will be complemented by installations in its newer outposts in Miami and New York that offer distinct elemental expressions of the color related to water and air. On display through Jan. 3, 2021. ArTecHouse is at 1238 Maryland Ave. SW. Tickets are $17 to $24 for timed-entry, 30-minute sessions limited to 25 people, or $50 for weeknight sessions at 8 p.m. limited to only 20 visitors. Private weekday sessions for up to 12 visitors priced at $250 are also available. Masks and proper social distancing are required at all times of guests and staff. Visit www.artechouse.com. —DR

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FIELD OF SCREAMS

Spotlight: Events

Field of Screams Maryland

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ILLED AS THE LARGEST HAUNTED attraction in the area, Field of Screams Maryland has adapted its offerings to be “COVID compliant and scarier than ever” for its 20th season, a time when “six feet under goes six feet apart.” The action moves away from the haunted house to be solely outdoors in the woods of Olney, Md., where the event’s two outdoor trails — the Haunted Trail and the Trail of Terror — have been combined to create one terrifying 50-minute immersive experience through a ransacked campground and a serial killer’s lair.

Professional actors will portray zombies and other fear-inducing creatures amidst intricately detailed haunted structures and horrific sites.

Upon arrival, you and your “bubble group” of four to six mask-wearing, fright-seeking friends will be escorted to a socially distant table near a

small bonfire where concessions, including popcorn and sodas, will be served to seated patrons until it’s time to hit the trail.

In addition to a mandatory wearing of masks, other pandemic-spurred changes include contact-free ticketing, timed-entry admission to limit the number of attendees, installation of cleaning stations and enactment of enhanced cleaning procedures, and requirements that all actors along the trail stay six to 13 feet from every guest and that all guests refrain from preand post-experience congregating and wandering. Starting at dusk weekends through Nov. 7.

Field of Screams is at 4501 Olney Laytonsville Rd. in Olney, Md. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $250 for a prearranged group of no less than four and no more than six people.

Visit www.screams.org. —DR OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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Savor

Election Night Cocktails

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Recipes and Photography by Craig Bowman

HERE’S NO QUESTION 2020 IS GOING TO BE A YEAR NONE OF US CAN FORGET. THE PANdemic has forced all of us in the world at once to change the way we work, play, and live. And now, we are facing perhaps the most pivotal election of our lifetimes. I don’t know about you, but an election night cocktail (or three) may be just what we need to get through the night.

RED: The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 1920s. Though it mustered a comeback the past few years, let’s hope this red cocktail fades to black on election night.

Ingredients: 1 1/2 ounces of your favorite bourbon, 3/4 ounce sweet vermouth, 3/4 ounce Campari, orange peel.

Preparation: Chill a cocktail glass by filling with ice or placing in the freezer for about 5 minutes. Pour the liquid ingredients into a mixing glass that’s 2/3 full of ice. Stir until chilled, about 30 seconds. Strain into the cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange slice or peel.

WHITE: The White Russian is another classic cocktail that everyone loves — until the hangover comes. It seems especially apropos again this year.

Ingredients: 2 ounces Kahlua, 2 ounces vodka, 2 ounces heavy cream.

Preparation: Fill a rocks glass with ice. Pour Kahlua and vodka into the glass. Pour heavy cream over the top, and serve.

BLUE: The Aviation is a gorgeous new cocktail created by Alex Miller (@designingdrunk). Made from Violets and Butterfly Pea Blossoms, this drink is a giant blue wave of flavor. Let’s hope our planet survives this election so we can enjoy more of these.

Ingredients: 2 ounces Empress 1908 Gin, 1/2 ounce lemon, 1/3 ounce Creme De Violette, 1/3 ounce Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur Preparation: Chill a coupe glass by filling with ice or placing in the freezer for about 5 minutes. Pour the liquid ingredients into a cocktail shaker that is half-filled with ice. Shake all ingredients for about 20 seconds. Strain into the chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry and serve.

And just in case the night just never seems to end, and you find yourself needing something just a bit stronger, I suggest you sip on a glass of Republic Restoratives’ amazing Rodham Rye. Yep, it’s named after her!

Questions? Text to Craig at 202-217-0996 or email Savor@metroweekly.com.

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PROPER SOCIAL TEAM

Savor

Pappas Brava

Proper 21K’s Limitless Brunch

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FTER OPENING IN SEPTEMBER, THE second D.C. outpost of the Proper Social chain of high-end sports bars and chef-driven restaurants from New York introduced a new weekend brunch that goes beyond the typical offering of bottomless brunch. At Proper 21K in the Foggy Bottom/West End area (D.C.’s first Proper 21 is on F St. NW downtown) guests can enjoy bottomless cocktails at $15 per guest plus “limitless brunch” food items, offered over the course of nine rounds during a 90-minute culinary journey, and priced at $34 per person — as long as all members of a party partake.

Chef Tony Gallotto’s fall brunch menu includes his twist on home fries in papas brava, tuna-filled poke nachos, a sizzling bacon mac skillet, Akuma eggs, veggie strata, plus four courses that rotate 26

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weekly and will be brought to each table. Wash it all down with a selection of mimosas, bourbon peach teas, Bloody Mary’s, and grapefruit radlers.

Because this is a sports bar we’re talking about, the Sunday brunch package is supplemented with a steady stream of NFL Sunday Ticket football games airing on twelve 70-inch TVs scattered throughout the venue’s 8,000-square foot indoor space. Alternately, you can opt to dine on 21K’s 2,000-square foot outdoor patio, which is open during brunch and available for reservations or on a first-come, first-seated basis.

Brunch is served every Saturday and Sunday starting at 11:30 a.m., with last seating at 2:30 p.m. Proper 21K is at 2033 K St. NW. Advance reservations recommended. Call 202-450-4485 or visit www.propersocial.com/dc. —Doug Rule

PHOTO COURTESY OF FOOD & FRIENDS

Savor

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Food & Friends “Slice of Life” Pie Sale

OOD & FRIENDS IS CURRENTLY HOLDing its annual “Slice of Life” pie sale fundraiser. Now in its 14th year, the annual sale has become a Thanksgiving-time staple, and is particularly crucial in ensuring Food & Friends can remain operational at a time when the D.C. area is struggling with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Pumpkin, apple, and sweet potato pies cost $28 each, pecan costs $38, and sea salt chocolate chess pie costs $45, and proceeds from the sale of one pie are approximately the cost of a full day of meals for a Food & Friends client. Those purchasing the sea salt chocolate chess pie will also be entered in a drawing to win $500 in gift cards to a selection of restaurants in the D.C. area.

The pies are baked locally by Whisked! which recently won the Best Baker and Best Pie honors in the Washington City Paper’s “Best of D.C.” reader’s poll. All pies are 9″ round and can be picked up on Tuesday, Nov. 24 at various locations throughout the region. Purchasers also have the option of buying a pie for a Food & Friends client, with the pie being delivered by volunteers on Thanksgiving Day, along with a full turkey dinner.

Pies can be purchased directly from Food & Friends online, or through corporate or individual pie sellers, a directory of which is available on the Food & Friends website. Pie sales close on Thursday, Nov. 19. —John Riley

For more information on Slice of Life, or to order a pie, visit www.sliceoflifedc.org.

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Vote for

Joe!

The former Vice President’s calm, even-keeled demeanor and his ability to empathize with suffering Americans make him our choice to lead the nation out of the pandemic.

By the Editors of Metro Weekly Photographs by Gage Skidmore

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O SAY DONALD TRUMP IS UNQUALIfied and undeserving of the honor of serving as president of the United States is the understatement of the century. He was unfit, intellectually and temperamentally, in 2016, and has spent the past three years and 10 months proving his critics right.

Every few election cycles, there comes a time when voters must forcibly retire those in office who have not served them well. Such “all hands on deck” elections are rare, but when they come around, the stakes are often dire. In this case, we have a president who has already exhibited autocratic tendencies more worthy of a tyrant:

the inability to accept criticism; a hostility to enumerated rights in the Constitution, including freedom of speech and freedom of assembly; frequent lying; and manipulation of the divisions among the American people to scapegoat for his shortcomings.

Joe Biden, on the other hand, is a fundamentally decent person with empathy in spades. Informed by his own life experiences, including losing his first wife and young daughter in a car accident that left his two sons hospitalized in critical condition, Biden has always demonstrated an ability to console grieving family members suffering from a similar loss, lending a sympaOCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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thetic ear and a shoulder on which to cry. A devout Roman Catholic, Biden lives by the tenets of his faith when it comes to welcoming the stranger or caring for the vulnerable among society.

While Biden’s political beliefs may seem outdated to some, he is not an ideologue or a fierce partisan. Having spent the bulk of his career in the U.S. Senate, Biden has built his reputation on working with Republicans and Democrats alike to craft and pass sweeping pieces of legislation.

He does not view Republicans as evil or deserving of contempt — in fact, one of his longest cross-aisle friendships was with the late Arizona Republican Senator, John McCain.

A sponsor of the original Violence Against Women Act, which led to a decrease in intimate partner violence following its passage in 1994, Biden has long advocated on behalf of marginalized groups, including women. A longtime chair of the Judiciary Committee, he ushered through the Supreme Court nominations of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen Breyer, and blocked the nomination of Jeff Sessions to become a federal judge and the nomination of Robert Bork to the U.S. Supreme Court.

As vice president, he played an instrumental role in the automobile industry bailout, and used his relationships with Capitol Hill Republicans to negotiate several pieces of legislation, including the 2010 Tax Relief Act, the Budget Control Act of 2011, which dealt with a debt ceiling crisis, and the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, which resolved the “fiscal cliff.” He also helped pass the Affordable Care Act by wrangling wavering Democratic senators to back the landmark health care law.

With respect to his record on LGBTQ rights, Biden has not always been on the correct side, particularly during the early years of his political career. But times have changed, and so have Biden’s attitudes over the ensuing five decades since he first served on the New Castle County Council. LGBTQ Republicans, including Trump apologist Richard Grenell, have tried to capitalize on decades-old comments by Biden painting gays as security risks, which are part of a blatant campaign strategy to convince younger members 32

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of the LGBTQ community to abstain from voting or vote third-party, based on the assumption that Biden continues to hold problematic views. He no longer holds these views, and our community cannot afford to hold grudges or scrutinize past statements or actions without understanding their historical context.

Biden has gone out of his way to be an ally to the LGBTQ community, urging for the ultimately successful repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” opposing the ban on transgender military personnel, and speaking out against anti-LGBTQ actions taken by foreign governments, whether it’s the abduction, torture, and imprisonment of gay men in Chechnya, a law in Brunei mandating the death penalty for LGBTQ people, or Poland’s estbalishment of “LGBT-free” zones. He was the first person in the Obama White House to clearly and explicitly state his support for marriage equality for same-sex couples, and is credited with pushing former Preisdent Barack Obama to embrace same-sex nuptials. He has stated his unequivocal support for the Equality Act, legislation that would enshrine nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ people into civil rights law. These actions and statements are evidence pointing to a genuine change of heart, something that will inform his views of LGBTQ-related issues once elected.

Biden’s selection of California Senator Kamala Harris as his vice president is to his credit. Harris is capable, intellectually curious, engaged, and quick-witted, and, during her time as U.S. senator, has amassed a solid record of support for various groups, including the LGBTQ community. She can provide good counsel to Biden, and will ensure that marginalized groups have an advocate when decisions are being made on their behalf. She could also easily and smoothly assume the role of president should she ever be called upon to do so.

For progressives, Biden may be the hardest Democrat to enthusiastically support given his more conservative and pro-corporate leanings when it comes to economic issues and the influence of money in politics. But even critiquing the candidates from the left, Biden has shown he can

HHH Election 2020 HHH be moved, now incorporating ideas into his platform that were progressive pipe dreams more than a decade ago, such as a $15 an hour federal minimum wage, ending oil subsidies, and gradually weaning the country off fossil fuels. With Trump, progressives are never going to be taken seriously — only demonized by someone eager to find a new bogeyman at which his most fervent supporters can vent their spleen.

Biden’s admirable traits stand in stark contrast to the incumbent’s shortcomings. Ever the showman, Trump is obsessed with projecting an image of strength, the alpha-male who never apologizes for his mistakes, who takes what

killed more than 225,000 Americans. Trump, always intent on casting himself as the smartest person in the room to preserve a reputation he’s cultivated for decades as the business mogul who kowtows to no one, is more content to dodge or skew facts when it doesn’t suit the image he’s trying to project. He alone is responsible for the politicization of mask-wearing during a pandemic, motivated by fears that an economic downturn or drop in the stock market would harm his re-election chances.

The Trump inner circle is a collection of sycophantic advisors, confidantes, family members, and political allies who refuse to challenge the

“Politics is not about the egos of petulant presidents with hair-trigger tempers sending out late-night tweets.

It is about real people, with real problems, who are looking to the government to make their lives easier. In his heart and at his core, Joe Biden understands this.” he wants and prioritizes actions that will accrue to his benefit. He is addicted to praise, content to wallow in the adoration of the true-believers who attend his campaign rallies or carry his water on social media platforms. Indeed, the shootfrom-the-hip style of tweeting that has characterized the Trump presidency — at one time relatable because of its “everyman” appeal — has morphed into a presidency that is “too online,” with Trump often repeating hashtags, talking points, and conspiracy theories from right-wing Twitter that mystify the bulk of Americans who aren’t slavish devotees to his cult of personality.

Worse still, Trump never learns from his errors, shirks responsibility, and dismisses advice from experts, as evidenced by his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and his attacks on Dr. Anthony Fauci, Dr. Deborah Birx, and anyone else who might be more qualified to assess the nation’s response to a deadly pandemic that has

president’s preconceived notions. The cabinet includes the hilariously unqualified Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson, a neurosurgeon who, as exposed by U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, knows little about housing policy; Betsy DeVos, a caricature of a Republican Party apparatchik who earned her position due to her fundraising prowess; Wilbur Ross, an out-of-touch millionaire heading up commerce; and William Barr, a Trump apologist who has been accused of weaponizing the Department of Justice on behalf of the president. In Trumpworld, everything is transactional: praise the president, especially on major media channels, and you’ll find a position.

Cross him, or merely fail to bow to him sufficiently, and you’ll find yourself being ushered out the door like former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

On issues affecting the LGBTQ community, the Trump administration has set itself up as an enemy, not an ally. Often, we’ll be subjected to OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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some high-quality gaslighting, told that Trump’s agnosticism on same-sex marriage prior to becoming president and his elevation of a select few gay men in positions of power makes him the “most pro-gay president ever.” But that claim falls apart the second you stop talking about cisgender gay men with relative amounts of money, power, and access.

Besides reinstituting a ban on transgender service members — announced via tweet, without consulting military leaders beforehand — the Trump administration has sought to repeal health care protections for transgender individuals; has granted waivers to adoption agencies

ting of the Affordable Care Act, he’s no longer appealing to those working-class Democrats and independents whose votes propelled him to the White House.

Conservatives and progressives alike may have legitimate issues where they disagree with Biden.

But if his advisors stop trying to micromanage him, or force him to triangulate based on a political calculus, Biden will meet and exceed people’s expectations. If he’s allowed to be “Joe from Scranton” or “Amtrak Joe,” the guy who understands and prioritizes the concerns of the people he met on his daily Amtrak treks from Wilmington to Washington, the country will be fine.

“Whatever policy disagreements some of us may have with Biden, LGBTQ people will not have to worry about a Biden-Harris administration betraying them or negotiating away their rights.

The former vice president has been a loyal and consistent ally and deserves to be rewarded for his loyalty with our votes.” allowing them to discriminate against same-sex couples; refused to recognize anti-transgender discrimination as a form of sex discrimination, both in the workplace and the schoolroom; and named vocal opponents of LGBTQ rights to key positions in government. This starts at the very top, with his selection of former Indiana Governor Mike Pence, known for his opposition to LGBTQ rights, and continues with his choice of Supreme Court nominees, most notably Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett, who have shown no indication they are likely to embrace interpretations of law that would expand LGBTQ rights and even may be willing to set them back.

Even on economics, an area in which Trump had significant populist appeal four years ago, due to his skepticism of free trade and opposition to outsourcing, he has broken promises. Now, when he sounds more like the traditional, standard-issue Republican obsessed with tax cuts, railing against socialism, and calling for the gut34

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If elected, a Biden-Harris administration will have an opportunity to take decisive, sweeping action. They — and their Democratic allies in Congress — should not squander it. People are hurting due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our country will need another round of stimulus, and large-scale spending to shore up small businesses who have taken a hit during the shutdowns related to the virus. Infrastructure spending has been a broken promise for the past 10 years. People out of work need a jobs bill. Bills calling for the restoration of the Voting Rights Act, comprehensive immigration reform, prohibiting discrimination against LGBTQ people, and criminal justice reforms demand immediate action, and will only be passed if Democrats control both branches of Congress and the White House.

Biden and Harris should also not delude themselves: a defeated Republican Party will, in the short term, become more angry, insular, and intransigent, and can only be relied upon to block

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any big-ticket items advanced by the administration. Republicans who once sat idly by while Trump blew up the deficit with tax cuts will suddenly become fiscal hawks screeching about how money to help ordinary Americans is wasteful. That means Biden will have to pressure, and even fight with, allies and longtime friends in Congress to reform Senate rules to make it easier to pass legislation quickly and efficiently.

For LGBTQ voters, the choice should be obvious. Whatever policy disagreements some of us may individually have with Biden, LGBTQ people will not have to worry about a Biden-Harris administration betraying them or negotiating away their rights. The former vice president has been a loyal and consistent ally for the better part of the past two decades, and deserves to be rewarded for his loyalty with our votes.

The time for apathy and disengagement has passed. So has the time for vote-shaming, language-policing, re-litigating the primary process, or refusing to acknowledge or learn from constructive criticism. We need to elect Joe

Biden president, and on Jan. 20, 2021, immediately begin holding him accountable for his campaign promises.

Politics is not supposed to be about the egos of petulant presidents with hair-trigger tempers sending out late-night tweets, and it’s certainly not about the personal gripes of political advisers or campaign staffers peacocking around K Street and the Hill. It is about real people, with real problems, who are looking to their own government to make their lives easier, a tough task in a world that can beat down people’s spirits and tear at their souls. In his heart, at his core, Joe Biden understands this.

Our nation awaits a leader who is not too small or too narcissistic to step into the office and make this country better for the people who don’t have access to lobbyists or political connections. There is much work to be done, and we are confident that Joe Biden is up to the task.

Please make sure you vote on Tuesday, Nov. 3. For more information, visit www.vote.gov.

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Everybody Vote Now

Generation Z can’t afford to sit this election out. And neither can anyone else. By Riley Gillis still dream of the day I can openly hold hands with my partner without fear of being the victim of a hate crime.

As the most diverse generation this country has ever seen, first-time voters like myself and every college student over the age of 18 have a major stake in the outcome of this election. Due to the nature of my private high school education, most of my closest friends are international students, from Mexico City to Shanghai and Hong Kong. Many of them are also voting for the first time, and like me their future as an American citizen depends upon this election. A vote for Biden is a vote for progress; a vote for Trump is an endorsement of racism and xenophobia.

Abstaining from casting a ballot this year makes you a bystander — whether you’re a dieGillis hard Bernie supporter or a moderate conservative, this is not the year to sit at home on election day. In addition, voting third party as an act of protest does far more harm than good, and now is not the time for performative activism.

Look, I get it. I’ve heard it all before, from friends, parents, classmates, and even professors: What difference does it make? Realistically, how much does one vote even count? Especially in a deep red or blue state, what good can a single contrary vote do? My answer: the difference between a democracy and a dictatorship.

The worst decision a young voter can make is to choose not to vote. It may seem like an act of protest against a broken political system, but it is in essence a display of privilege. If you are fortunate enough to not worry about the outcome of this election, and stubborn enough to let SOPHIE MACALUSO

W

E ARE LIVING THROUGH UNprecedented times, but the current autocrat in chief has only made a bad situation worse, with his adamant refusal to guide the American people through the current pandemic. Your life, and the lives of those closest to you, will be directly impacted by the results of this election.

The current election does not come down to a matter of Democrat or Republican, conservative or liberal, communist or capitalist — we are fighting tooth and nail to save our crumbling democracy. Donald Trump has proven time and again that he cares about no one and nothing except himself. He resides over a cabinet of fools. Rather than draining the swamp, he has filled it. Washington D.C. is overflowing with the stench of sewage, and the source can be traced only to the rotting corpse of our once-sturdy democracy: the Oval Office.

On November 3rd, our rights are on the line, and up for the taking.

I grew up being mocked by my friends’ fathers for acting “like a girl” and not being good enough at sports to compete with their sons. For much of my early youth I felt uncomfortable in my own skin. But that all changed in 2015. After the historic marriage equality ruling by the Supreme Court, I foolishly thought our country had finally reckoned with the injustices of its past and made legitimate progress towards ratifying protections under law for LGBTQ citizens. Five years later, I find it hard to believe there was ever a time I had such hope in this country, and yet a small part of me still does. Buried under layers of pessimism, dark humor, and the jaded angst wrought by an adolescence in the digital age, I

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your personal agenda prevent you from voting for Biden, you are relinquishing your right and moral obligation to protect Black people, indigenous people, and people of color, undocumented immigrants, trans and nonbinary people, and the credibility of the scientific community. Please, at the very least, take a moment to self-reflect before you make such a harsh judgment call.

Joe Biden has proved himself to be a reliable advocate for the LGBTQ community, from the Obama administration's repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" to his historic statement of support for marriage equality on Meet The Press in 2012.

As president, Biden has promised he will work to expand health care access, maintain equitable treatment of LGBTQ individuals in the current criminal justice system, support LGBTQ youth, and advance data collection on LGBTQ individuals to incentivize their protection.

Donald Trump on the other hand has nominated Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court, where she would likely pose a threat to women’s reproductive rights, continue legal discrimination against people of color, and possibly repeal marriage equality. She could also be the President’s deciding vote if the election is handed to the Supreme Court.

Since the very first diagnosis of COVID-19 on American soil, the President has made it his mission to stoke conspiracy theories about its origin, discourage the use of masks to prevent the spread of the disease, and even ridicule his opponent for taking basic precautions.

Instead of telling his supporters to respect social distancing orders, he urged them to “call your own shots” in light of Democratic mayors shutting down cities and states back in April. When it came to socially distanced protests over racial unrest and police brutality, he had unsurprisingly changed his tune, insisting they led to a spike in cases, contrary to studies conducted by Northeastern and Harvard which proved otherwise.

Diseases do not discriminate based on socioeconomic class, political affiliation, or religious beliefs, and everyone is at risk — including college students, even if your Snapchat story may tell your friends otherwise. Joe Biden has a plan to respond to the public health and economic crisis 38

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wrought by the spread of the coronavirus. From day one of his administration, he has promised to restore the public’s trust in government, and to immediately take action to eliminate cost barriers preventing marginalized communities from accessing the same healthcare and preventive measures afforded to the most affluent communities.

He has also made history as the first major political party’s presidential nominee to directly address the disproportionate violence and discrimination trans women of color face everyday across the country, and committed to overhauling legal protections for transgender people, stating at an ABC town hall, “I will flat out just change the law.... There should be zero discrimination.”

Furthermore, the Earth is under attack, and there is no easy fix for the rapidly increasing levels of climate change and the debilitating blows to our environment which have occurred without reprieve since the dawn of capitalism. If Biden does not win, the damage will be even more irreparable than it already is.

I know many members of Generation Z worry we may not have much time left to prevent manmade climate change from reaching the point of no return, which scientists estimate to be in 2035. Joe Biden has guaranteed he will take significant steps to push back that date, from implementing the Green New Deal to assuring the country’s economy is one-hundred percent clean energy and there are net-zero emissions by 2050.

I will be the first to admit that I wish Biden were more radical, less of a classic liberal and more of a forward-thinking progressive, but a few minute differences in policy vastly outweigh the lasting damage a two-term Trump presidency would do to this country.

To everyone 18 and over, now is the time to vote for the change we so desperately want to see within this flawed democracy. Keep protesting, keep signing petitions and calling your representatives and senators, but please do not sit out Election Day. The people of our country need your help.

Riley Gillis is a sophomore majoring in Political Science at American University and a contributor to Metro Weekly.

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Supreme Farce

To Donald Trump, Mitch McConnell, and Amy Coney Barrett, democracy is only valuable when it’s made in their own image. By Charlotte Clymer

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N MONDAY EVENING, AMY CONEY Barrett became the 115th person to be confirmed to the Supreme Court in one of the closest votes in American history, 52-48, tied with Clarence Thomas — who swore her in shortly thereafter — and only bested in mediocrity

by Brett Kavanaugh (5048), whose own confirmation process was so toxic and partisan two years ago that, this time around, Republicans practically wrapped-up Barrett in rhetorical couch cushions and duct tape, accusing Democrats — before scarcely a word had been said — of being anti-Catholic and anti-working-mother.

Never mind, of course, that Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi and Sonia Sotomayor are Catholics, or that there are nearly twice as many Catholic Democrats in Congress as there are Catholic Republicans, or that Trump and Fox News and much of the Republican establishment have spent years openly criticizing Pope Francis for offering controversial opinions like “climate change seems real” and “immigrants are people, too” and “be nice to LGBTQ people.”

Never mind that the United States is still one of three countries in the world — and the only industrialized country — without paid maternity or paternity leave, or that working mothers, particularly Black and Brown mothers, face overwhelming pay disparities and other forms of discrimination in the workplace, and Republicans, as a matter of policy, are hellbent on refusing to acknowledge any of these problems while they

lecture and condescend about “motherhood.”

Never mind that more than 226,000 Americans have been killed by COVID-19, and that the United States leads the word, by a wide margin, in both reported cases and deaths, and that nearly half of small businesses in this country have been shut down — temporarily or permanently — due to the crisis, and that Trump has been discovered to have known early on the danger facing us all, yet downplayed it.

And that despite all of this and much more, the Republican Party and Trump and McConnell refused to work with Democratic congressional leadership to pass a COVID relief bill this month, but somehow found the space to push through Barrett’s confirmation in record time, including a nominaClymer tion ceremony at the White House that quite literally became a super-spreader event that singlehandedly doubled D.C.’s reported COVID cases overnight, all in the name of seeking to confirm a so-called “pro-life” justice.

Never mind that when Barrett was directly questioned by Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) about whether Brown v. Board (desegregating public schools) and Loving v. Virginia (legalizing interracial marriage) were decided correctly, she didn’t hesitate to respond in the affirmative that, yes, they were correctly decided, but when Blumenthal followed up about Lawrence v. Texas (decriminalizing homosexuality), Griswold v. Connecticut (legalizing contraceptives), and Obergefell v. Hodges (legalizing same-sex marriage), Barrett refused to offer affirmation, OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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HHH Election 2020 HHH instead asserting that it wasn’t her place to give publicly before the 2016 election that if Clinton “yes or no” answers on existing precedents. Her won, they would keep blocking nominations so detached, un-affirming legalese around Oberge- long as they had the Senate. But we are supposed fell, in particular, was so startling that no less to ignore this blatant obstruction of the federal than both Jim Obergefell and Richard Hodges judiciary and the pervasive corruption and sijointly stated that Barrett’s confirmation posed a lencing of the American people that drove it. risk to LGBTQ equality.

Never mind that in a majority of the United Never mind that Barrett failed to disclose States, LGBTQ people still face discrimination talks she gave on Roe v. Wade to students at No- in housing, credit, public accommodations, jury tre Dame — the content of which service, and so many other arwe still don’t have because the eas of the public square because “Barrett’s detached, GOP-led Senate Judiciary didn’t we lack comprehensive federal feel it prudent to call for that inun-affirming legalese non-discrimination protections, formation to be released — and and the likes of Amy Coney Bararound Obergefell has quite literally signed an adrett basically wants her personwas so startling that vertisement in the New York al beliefs to control the private no less than both Times in 2006 endorsing the idea lives of other people, wants the that Roe can and should be overgovernment to tell people who turned, and signed an open letter to love and what to do with their in 2012 opposing the Affordable bodies, wants the state to enCare Act’s requirement that emshrine her religious views in the ployers permit contraceptives to bedrooms of complete strangers, be included in their health care and we are supposed to ignore plans, and signed an open letter this. in 2015 stating that life begins at Never mind that I, a proud conception, and has spoken with transgender woman, go to great feeling about her clerkship church and have been praying under the late Justice Anthony to the same God all my adult life Scalia, and has been loudly supand that not once — not a single ported by anti-abortion groups time — have I ever needed anythrough her entire career. And one around me to validate my yet, somehow, someway, we are to believe that faith, because that’s what it means to have faith.

Barrett would never overturn Roe, as Sen. Lisa And yet, I am told that my mere existence, heart Murkowski (R-AK) insisted while she thrust in and soul given to Christ, should be a sufficient the dagger with her vote to confirm Barrett. reason for anyone in the public square to refuse Never mind that Barrett has never tried a case, to recognize my humanity on the basis of their never tried an appeal, never argued before the religious beliefs and expect protection from the Supreme Court, and has only spent two years on likes of Amy Coney Barrett should their grieva federal bench. ance reach her bench.

Never mind that Barrett is now the 220th juNever mind all of this because to these peodicial confirmation for Trump in less than four ple — Donald Trump and Mitch McConnell and years in office — a record by a mile — because, Amy Coney Barrett — democracy is only valudespite Barack Obama being elected by a major- able and worth defending when it’s made in their ity of Americans twice consecutively, Mitch Mc- own image.

Connell led Senate Republicans in blocking and Are you angry? You should be. Now go vote. refusing to consider over 100 judicial nominations under Obama, including 11 months of keep- Charlotte Clymer is an American activist and ing the Supreme Court at eight seats and stating writer. Follow her on Twitter at @cmclymer.

Jim Obergefell and Richard Hodges jointly stated that her confirmation posed a risk to LGBTQ equality.”

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GAGE SKIDMORE

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Biden or Bust: A Metro Weekly Forum

With the nation in turmoil and LGBTQ rights on the line, we as Their answers reflect the anxieties, fears, and faint glimmers of hope and resolve found in millions of voters across the country.

How are you feeling about the upcoming presidential election?

FREDO ALVAREZ, 42, Gay, Calif., Tech Support Ad-

visor, Independent: I'm feeling hopeful but still very concerned. Four years ago, I thought Hillary Clinton was a shoo-in compared to her opponent. Clearly, I was wrong.

DANA BEYER, 68, Trans/Intersex, Md., Retired,

Democrat: Good. I'm more concerned about the Interregnum, and even more about the ability of a Democratic Congress to transform health care, criminal justice, the judiciary and the climate.

SIANNA BOSCHETTI, 25, Lesbian, D.C., Web Content

Manager, Democrat: I'm not feeling great about the upcoming presidential election. Though I MIKE BENTO, 59, Gay, D.C., Marketing and Commu- do believe Biden will win, I don't think Trump nications, Democrat: Anxious. Not at all confident. will accept the results. I think it's possible we'll OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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have some sort of coup. If Biden does eventually take over the White House, I know it will still be an uphill battle to actual positive change for LGBTQ+, BIPOC and Latinx communities.

ocrat: A little nervous about everything. Will we get enough people to get out and vote? Will those militia folks get hostile if Biden wins? Will we win by a landslide? Will I find my polling place? Can I convince my mother not to Vote for Trump? I told her I wouldn't give her a ride if that was her intention.

DONALD BURCH, 60, Pansexual, D.C., Retired Clinical Social Worker, Democrat: I'm ready for it to be over. I'm worried about the future no matter who wins. I'm particularly worried about domestic ROBERT CROCETTI, 46, Gay, D.C., Fitness Trainer, terrorism from the alt-right.

Democrat: I am excited about the upcoming election. However, I am concerned about whether or PETER C., 62, Gay, D.C., Realtor, Democrat: Pissed not the results of the election will be accepted by off. Lousy choices on both sides. I don't want me the current administration. The Trump adminisor the country or the world to endure four more tration has already indicated they will challenge years of Trump, though some of his policies ar- the results in court if those results are not in the

“I’m a little nervous. Will enough people get out and vote?

Will those militia folks get hostile if Biden wins?

Can I convince my mother not to Vote for Trump? I told her I wouldn’t give her a ride if that was her intention.” —Poppy Champlin en't bad. Nor do I want a repeat of the smug self president's favor and were largely determined by righteous politically correct but economically mail-in ballots. This could delay the elected adand practically stupid poilicies and attitudes of ministration from taking office for a long time. the Clinton and Obama years.

RAY DANIELS, 53, Gay, N.Y., Proposal Manager, GREGORY CENDANA , 34, Gay, D.C., President, Can't Democrat: I am cautiously optimistic. It seems Stop! Won't Stop! Consulting, Democrat: It’s clear very clear to me that we are in great danger if that the future of democracy, racial justice, and leadership remains the same. the country's response to the Coronavirus are all at stake and on the ballot this election, especially ALPHONSO DAVID, 50, Gay, N.Y., President of the Huas we vote for who is going to be President. Di- man Rights Campaign, Democrat: Although these rectly impacted communities and organizers, in- are undoubtedly dark times, I am hopeful about cluding LGBTQ folks, are exhausted by the bar- the people seizing back our democracy. With rage of attacks from the current inhabitant of the our grassroots army more than 3 million strong, White House but stand ready — no matter who is and with over 160 staff virtually deployed in key elected — to protect our communities and hold states, the Human Rights Campaign has been whoever accountable. working around the clock to deliver pro-equality wins up and down the ballot. And together with POPPY CHAMPLIN, 60, Gay, R.I., Comedian, Dem- our partners, we have been making sure that the 44

OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

HHH Election 2020 HHH voters are ready to make their voices heard and their votes count in the most important election of our lifetimes. In spite of all the obstacles we face, we have seen the resistance and resilience of our communities in full force. And united, we will deliver the victory our communities and our country need.

the country is more divided than ever before in my lifetime. We do need a change from the current condition of our nation. We can only succeed and progress if we are united.

DAVID GREER, 55, Gay, D.C., Communications,

Democrat: Democrats need to stop their bedwetting, stop reliving 2016, and put our big boy boots TODD EVANS, 57, Gay, N.J., Self-employed, Demo- on and crush the bigoted, racist, sexist, xenophocrat: Optimistic. bic, homophobic, transphobic movement led by Donald Trump. We are the America that believes SANDY FABIO, 55, Transgender, N.J., Retired Mili- in everyone's dignity. We are within reach of extary, Democrat: Trump has to go! terminating the president. Now we must believe it. Make it happen.

RUSSWIN FRANCISCO, 54, Gay, D.C., Retailer, Democrat: I feel optimistic. Trump's efforts to dis- JOHN GUGGENMOS, 54, Gay, D.C., ANC commiscredit mail-in ballots and tactics to intimidate sioner and Nightlife Owner, Democrat: I feel like the electorate have mostly backfired. Most voters this last year I've been living in Season 4 of now recognize these acts as desperate attempts to Lost, and the writers keep throwing the crazisteal the election or save face when Trump loses. est things my way. I have no idea if there will be Civil rights groups, election watchdogs and ordi- Season 5 and if the election is the cliffhanger nary observers are alert, savvier and quicker to of Season 4 or the series finale. Quite frankly, point out maneuvers and tricks such as changes it's astounding that four years later, I'm still bewith the U.S. Postal Service, disappearing mail wildered that Trump is President. I've said to boxes and mail sorting equipment. Voters are my spouse countless times, I cannot believe it. calling, emailing and writing to their senators As the election approaches, there is one aspect and reps. As a result, the Postmaster was asked of Trump's Presidency, and it can't be ignored: to account for the changes, halt all non-standard lies, lies, lies. Trump lies more than any Presiactivity and return boxes and equipment. When dent has ever lied, and the unfortunate part is armed uniformed "guards" showed up in early to see the enjoyment and delight his base takes voting places in Florida and Pennsylvania, offi- in his lying. cials were quick to determine their identity and Trump lies for the admiration of the crowds purpose, calling the Trump campaign to vouch at his rallies, and they don't care. When they are for them (they were disavowed). confronted with the lie, it's not a problem because his base sees this plain-spoken man lying to proJAMES GAGHAN, 36, Ally, D.C., Talent Buyer, Inde- tect them as he fights the establishment. When pendent: I have been on record on Flame Monroe's the Republican leadership is confronted with his Coffeetime podcast as this being one of the most lie, they have either never seen the news report important elections of our time with the ability to or the President's tweet. Still, in all cases, they either further divide or bring hope to our nation. just don't care that he lies. There's no expectation I firmly believe that another four years of Trump that Trump will answer a reporter's question or will do permanent damage to all progress made debate moderator with a logical or coherent refor all underrepresented individuals. sponse. He says what he wants, demonstrating the power he has to lie and shape the narrative.

ADAM GARNEK , 43, Gay, N.C., Self-employed, Dem- He lies for no purpose other than demonstrating ocrat: I am very apprehensive as to the outcome to us that he can lie. He lies about his support for as both candidates have a large fan base. I feel white supremacists, and his sidestepping with OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

45

the truth is music to the hate groups that love Democrat: Hopeful. him. Along with a mute button at the debate, we needed a lie detector connected to a flashing red PATSY LYNCH, 67, Lesbian, Md., Photographer, Demlight to Fact Check him in real-time. It's incredi- ocrat: Having covered Presidential elections in ble, it's unthinkable, it's exhausting, and why we the past, I am both excited and disgusted by what can't tune out his noise this election. is going on. Excited because it seems that more people are taking the time to vote; disgusted by ERIC HALLEY, 46, Gay, D.C., Business Analyst, the vitriol surrounding this election. Trump's Democrat: All signs point to a Democratic win constant attack on the validity of the eventual for President as well as wins in the Senate and outcome is unseemly as well as disgusting.

House. Voter mobilization and increased engagement with younger voters along with the JOE MCCALL, 52, Gay, D.C., Private Investor, Demcorruption of the Republican party all point to a ocrat: Trump is going to win, and I hate it. Biden is a really sorry-assed alternative. I do not want Democratic realignment. to move towards the socialist "allies." They will JOSEPH IZZO, 72, Non-Binary, D.C., Retired Psy- fuck us. chotherapist, Democrat: Like most liberal/progressive people, I'm fearful that the Republicans THOM METZGER, 50, Gay, D.C., PR Professional, and Trump-Pence will succeed in winning by a Democrat: I'm hopeful that we may actually see a hair through voter suppression methods in the wave election that would allow us to realign our swing States and we'll be stuck for another four government and finally address some of the bigyears with a right wing, reactionary Executive, gest problems such as addressing the Covid-19 Legislative and Judicial government. I still feel pandemic, economic inequality, disparate acthe horror I woke up to on November 9, 2016 and cess to healthcare, racial injustice, the need for am terrified of a replay. criminal justice reform, unfair limits on labor organizing, and climate change. Republicans DAN KAUFMAN, 55, Gay, Pa., Promotional Products have not been productive partners in our system.

Marketing Salesperson, Democrat: Somewhat op- The current status quo only seems to benefit the timistic, but also incredibly sad on a bunch of lev- wealthiest people in our country. els. I've been texting voters in support of Biden, and the amount of virulent anger I get from ADAM O., 34, Gay, Md., Retail Worker, Democrat: Trump supporters is remarkable. They literally Very nervous. Trump was supposed to lose behave nothing to complain about, but they seem fore and still won. I won't relax until it's over. to take on Trump's victim complex and defend his indefensible behavior as if they are person- NEAL RACIOPPO, 51, Ally, D.C., Sr. Director of Marally being attacked. It's both fascinating and sad. keting and Communications, Democrat: OptimisBiden is not the best candidate the Democrats tically terrified. Confidently anxious. I'm on a could have put up, but he's what we've got, and psychotic roller coaster of Hope and Dread. To I'm behind him 100 percent. My favorite analogy feel confident seems naive. To feel worried seems about voting is that it's like taking a bus. It won't self-defeatist. get you to your final destination, but it will take There's an episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayyou in the direction you want to go. er where a vengeance demon named Anyanka grants a wish and we see what Sunnydale would JOHN KLENERT, 70, Gay, D.C., Retired, Democrat: have been like if Buffy had never come to town.

Anxious.

The Master has risen, Willow and Xander are his undead minions, and Giles is a watcher without FREDDIE LUTZ, 69, Gay, Va., Restaurant Owner, a slayer to watch. At the end of the episode, as all 46

OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

HHH Election 2020 HHH hell is breaking loose, Giles prepares to destroy Anyanka's power source to reverse the spell and she asks how he can be so sure the alternate timeline is better than the current one. Giles says "It has to be." I feel like, in this moment, we are Giles. Poised to smash the power amulet.

Things won't magically revert to "normal" like in Sunnydale. We will always remember the trauma of the past four years and there will be immense work to undo the evils of the current administration. I hope we are up to the task to repair and correct our society in really positive ways.

much on the line and that so many people think that Trump and the Republicans are doing a good job, is truly frightening.

Who do you think will win? Why? MIKE BENTO: I'm terrified it could still go either

way.

DANA BEYER: I think it will be a landslide because

a sizable majority are tired of the chaos.

SIANNA BOSCHETTI: I think Biden will win by a

RICHARD ROSENDALL, 64, Gay, D.C., Freelance good margin. I feel like Trump has mobilized a Writer, Democrat: I feel that an attempted right- lot of people against him over the past four years. wing coup is underway, led from the Oval Office. His base — which I assume at this point is just Evangelical Christians and white supremacists, LINDA RUCCI, 64, Ally, Fla., Nurse, Democrat: Cross and Evangelical Christian white supremacists — my fingers and toes and arms and legs trying to will probably be the only people voting for him be hopeful. at this point. I'm not sure that Trump will accept the results, even if it's clearly a Biden victory, and BOB WITECK , 68, Gay, Va., Public Relations Ex- I'm not looking forward to whatever hell that ecutive, Democrat: I'm feeling upbeat, yet never puts the American people through. over-confident or complacent. I predict a blue tsunami is growing and expect that Demo- ARNOLD BURGESS, 58, Gay, Fla., Unemployed, crats will capture the House, Senate, and White Democrat: Joe Biden because of Chaos Fatigue.

House. It will be tense, ugly at times, close mar- Notwithstanding Covid-19, the electorate is tired gins in some races that will be hard fought, but I of the news cycle never containing positive mes-

“Trump lies for no purpose other than demonstrating to us that he can lie.

We need a lie detector connected to a flashing red light to Fact Check him in real-time. It’s incredible, it’s unthinkable, it’s exhausting.” —John Guggenmos believe the nation's mood and deep distrust and saging about them from the Whitehouse itself. discontent with Donald Trump is unleashing a Shared sense of "in this together" has disapstrong sea change. peared from the political spectrum.

MERLE YOST, 62, Gay, Calif., Writer/Psychother-

apist, Democrat: This is the scariest and most consequential election in my lifetime. There is so

GREGORY CENDANA: The most important poll

and the one that counts is on Election Day. No matter what pundits, social media, or your colOCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

47

leagues say, we must do everything we can to ensure that as many eligible voters cast their votes and help others understand the stakes are too high. Regardless of the outcome or length of time it will take to certify the results, I am

munity. People in this country are ready for this chapter in our politics to be over — and they are voting to end it. And not just in terms of firing Donald Trump and Mike Pence — but in elections up and down the ballot. People are

“Our nation is currently in distress due to a toxic mix of incompetence, corruption, and foreign influence on the president and his entire administration.

A Biden victory would open a path to healing for our nation with ethical, competent leadership.” —Bobbi Strang

ready to organize, build power, and put my body on the line to ensure the safety and security of those most vulnerable.

voting for a better, more equal vision of America, and leaders who will follow that vision with action.

POPPY CHAMPLIN: I think Biden will win. I think

TODD EVANS: Joe Biden, because the other person

the numbers of people that are voting by mail and pre-voting is a good sign that the importance of this election is being felt by everyone in the country. The Malfeasance of this president is evident by our lack of protection from this virus.

CALEB COPELAND, 35, Gay, D.C., Digital Market-

ing, Democrat: Biden, but I also thought the same about Clinton in 2016. I think the potential for having record-breaking voting turnout will help Biden, and he's far ahead of Trump in national polls as well as many battleground states.

ALPHONSO DAVID: I believe the majority of peo-

ple in this country reject Trump's vision of America, where the power of the few are privileged over the welfare of the many, where white supremacy is given not only license but sanction, and where partisanship wins out over people every time. We have seen over the past four years the cost of this vision, from their catastrophic handling of COVID-19 to their relentless attacks on the LGBTQ com48

OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

is a criminal.

ADAM GARNEK: Biden and Harris. I believe this

team has shown true leadership in their work for the people. Many say they have been in politics too long and have lost sight. Sight of what? True, both have been in the arena for a long time. That only proves the hard work and accomplishments that have been made in order for the people to keep them there. Additionally, over the decades the political establishment has progressed their views in the change of times. We can't hold anyone to their actions in politics for past decisions that were made in that era. However, we must change. "We're supposed to," as the comic strip says of the butterfly to the caterpillar.

DAVID GREER: Joe Biden will be the first president

to win election with 400 electoral votes since George H. W. Bush in 1988. 2020 will prove that 2016 was an aberration. The American people are decent, compassionate and honest. Joe Biden represents who this country is.

HHH Election 2020 HHH STEPHEN GRIFFITH, 58, Gay, Md., Healthcare,

Democrat: I don't know. There is a lot of support on both sides.

we truly need to make America great again.

JOE MCCALL: Trump will win, because this is

about the economy.

JOHN GUGGENMOS: As I check fivethirtyeight.com

a few times a day, it's impossible not to be haunted with memories of 2016. All the polls indicate Biden, but in our house, saying "Biden is leading" out loud isn't allowed for fear it would jinx it. But what is winning this year? It's not hard to see the election results could produce a crisis of legitimacy and a counter-reaction. When the President of the United States himself for months has been saying this is a rigged election, it's going to be the biggest fraud of all time, it's hard to see the bottom or an outcome without violence.

Trump has tremendous control over many of his followers who genuinely believe he's the Savior of America, and if he hinted, they should take to the street, this would happen. If Trump loses, the idea that QAnon nuts would be armed in the street seems all too possible at the moment. Both the left and the right have political grievances, so if Trump wins, the protests would likely produce a volitant reaction from a very heavy-handed government response or by loyal Trumpeters.

Violence from either Charlottesville's level to the scale of Timothy McVeigh is not as far-fetched of an idea as it was 10 months ago.

Today we can't agree about what is true and a fact. We can't agree about what's actually happening. There's disagreement on the science behind wearing a mask and if COVID is real or a threat? And amazingly, we're about to hold a presidential election, and I'm not a drama queen to worry whether we might be tipped into chaos by merely having the election. It's not a possibility I thought I'd ever had to consider.

JACK MURPHY, 21, Transgender, D.C., Student, Independent: All signs point to Joe Biden being elected President and Kamala Harris Vice-President.

National polls, polls in key states, and polling of key demographics shows promising trends in the direction of the Biden-Harris ticket. That was the case in 2016 as well, and we saw what happened then. However, the notion that polling cannot be trusted is simply false; polls aren't a crystal ball, pollsters are not soothsayers. They are human statisticians, possessing the same flaws and limitations as the rest of us. The polls in 2016 were correct, they showed Clinton leading by 3-ish points, and she won the popular vote by 3-ish points. Unfortunately, the undemocratic Electoral College (which overrepresented white, rural voters) did not translate the 3 percentage point lead in votes into a place in the White House.

The forces that swept Trump to victory like resistance to an increasingly un-white American population, feelings of disenfranchisement among people of all parties, misogyny, and the like remain alive and if anything is more active and more overt than they were four years ago. In the final days before the election and the weeks of ballot counting expected to follow we must remain active and vigilant whether we are motivating people to turn out at the polls or watching out for any shenanigans in the tallying process. A Trump win is not beyond the pale, and we must do everything we can in the time we have left to relegate him to the dustbin of history.

RAYCEEN PENDARVIS, AARP eligible, Gender-blender, D.C., Host, Emcee, and Beauty IndusDemocrat: At this point it's too close to call, hence try Professional: I'm praying Biden wins, because why I'm nervous. the current administration has demonstrated their level of incompetence and their animus toDAN KAUFMAN: Biden. Although the only poll that wards certain demographics of people. matters is the ballot box.

NEAL RACIOPPO: Biden/Harris. In 2016 the idea of PATSY LYNCH: I hope Biden/Harris win because a President tRump was a joke. It was downright KENYA HUTTON, 42, Gay, D.C., Deputy Director,

OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

49

funny. I mean, he didn't even think he was going to win. It has been suggested by many and later confirmed by Michael Cohen, that his run for President was all about publicity and setting him up to launch Trump TV. Now that we've seen his administration's ineptitude, corruption, the incessant racism and sexism, we won't get fooled again. Sweeping change is coming. Down the ballot as well. And all the Republicans who turned a blind eye to this shit-show are going to get what they deserve when they cannot wash the stink of tRump off.

rather than that of the current occupant of the Oval Office.

DANA BEYER: Hopeful but cautious, fearful about

the ability of weak-kneed Dems to finally get their spines back.

PETER C.: Worried about rising taxes, already out-

rageously high healthcare costs. MY "Affordable Care Act" policy costs $1,400 a month. (Thanks Barack and Hillary for allowing insurers to discriminate on the basis of age). And worried about whether I will ever be able to retire.

PAT REILLY, 72, Heterosexual, Va., Journalist, Dem-

ocrat: Joe Biden, because even Trump's support- ALPHONSO DAVID: With a Biden-Harris Adminisers acknowledge that he is occasionally at least tration, our nation will be back on a path towards unhinged. hope and progress. Joe Biden's compassion, grit and grace make him uniquely qualified to lead BOBBI STRANG, 50, Pansexual, D.C., Insurance Ex- our country through this difficult period. aminer, Democrat: It is my hope that Joe Biden He is a leader who has stood with the and Kamala Harris win the election. Our nation LGBTQ+ community for decades, and with is currently a nation in distress due to a toxic mix Biden as President, LGBTQ people at home of incompetence, corruption, and foreign influ- and abroad will have a committed champion ence on the president and his entire administra- in the White House. A Biden-Harris administion. I am so grateful for the career civil servants tration would sign the Equality Act into law, that have kept a complete collapse at bay. A Biden push for gender-inclusive identification markvictory would open a path to healing for our na- ers, reverse the transgender military ban, ban so-called conversion therapy, re-prioritize adtion with ethical, competent leadership. vancing LGBTQ equality around the world, MERLE YOST: Just over a week out, it does feel like fight to end the transmission of HIV, ensure we will have a democratic wave. I have waited LGBTQ people's access to health care cannot my entire life for the pendulum to swing in the be limited by their identity, and work to end the epidemic of violence against transgender liberal direction. Maybe it will this time. people that particularly targets transgender ZAR, 34, LGBTQ-adjacent, Md., Project Manager, women of color.

Independent: I think Biden is likely to win the If Biden wins, the public will see real leaderpopular vote. Who will prevail in the Electoral ship and necessary change. And that is something College is dependent upon too many unknowns that should be a cause for celebration for all. to hazard a guess, especially with the pandemic and widespread voter suppression.

TODD EVANS: Joyful.

How will you feel if Biden wins?

RUSSWIN FRANCISCO: Ecstatic. I believe Biden is

who we need right now. He has the compassion, FREDO ALVAREZ: Mostly relieved. Much as I re- instinct, experience and political temperament spect him, Biden was not my first choice during to make America America again. Biden, the only the primaries. My outlook for the future of this presidential candidate in recent history without country will fare better with his leadership an Ivy League background, has a better chance 50

OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

HHH Election 2020 HHH than anyone of rebuilding the Democratic coalition and winning back the support of disaffected, working-class voters.

The Biden administration would pursue a larger fiscal stimulus targeted at households, workers, and small businesses that need it, as well as job-creating infrastructure spending and investments in the green economy. Biden would invest in education and worker retraining, and in proactive industrial and innovation policies.

Biden might raise taxes on corporations and the

protections of human rights.

DAVID GREER: Proven correct.

GARRY GSQUARE, 69, Gay, S.C., Retired, Democrat:

I voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016. I would have liked 8 years with her in office. I feel Joe Biden is a dedicated public servant. He's shown his loyalty to serve and support our government and its citizens. Like every other politician I don't expect he will be able to achieve all he's campaigned to

“The most important poll and the one that counts is on Election Day. No matter what pundits, social media, or your colleagues say,

we must do everything we can to ensure that as many eligible voters cast their votes.

The stakes are too high.” —Gregory Cendana top 1 percent but he would also close loopholes that allow tax avoidance and shifting profits and production abroad. These policies will result in only a modest hit to corporate profits and any costs to the economy would be more than offset

by Biden's proposed "Made in America" policies to bring more jobs, profits, and production home.

Biden promises to raise the minimum wage to boost labor and consumption. He aims to restore bargaining power to workers, and to protect consumers from predatory financial institutions.

His plans have a much more sensible approach to trade, immigration, and foreign policy. He will repair US alliances and partnerships.

ADAM GARNEK: Honestly, politics as usual. Us

little people don't see the ins and outs of day to day politics. We just hear about it. The difference for me though is I feel we have a true leader that is in our corner and cares about us little people. For me, Biden cares what I care about.

We also have a true friend to help our LGBTQ community progress, stay safe, and grow our

do. He's got a lot of healing and damage repair to address if elected.

THOM METZGER: Relief. Absolute relief.

JACK MURPHY: Biden's likely victory will be a

much-needed relief from the chaos, violence, human rights violations, and utter mismanagement of the Trump presidency. While Biden does not represent all of my policy views, I am looking forward to a presidential term during which science is believed, an effective response to the current pandemic is mounted, and the dignity of trans people is upheld. That being said, I would urge people to avoid complacency like the plague. After same-sex marriage became the law of the land in 2015, it felt like many believed the struggle for LGBTQ+ equality was over. What we saw in the next five years was a dramatic rise in anti-gay and anti-trans violence and attacks on our legal rights at every level of government.

Even if Trump is out of office, even if a Blue Wave the likes of which we have never seen ushers in OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

51

Democratic majorities in Congress and statehouses nationwide, there will remain politicians and others who will stop at nothing to roll back the progress made in our country.

I would encourage people to avoid seeing Trump or the larger ideology of Trumpism as repudiated or dead. Trump was not an anomaly, but the product of a decades-long conservative movement aimed at leveraging the power of the courts to undo progressive legislation passed over the years. While he may be disempowered, the movement he led is not gone. We must remain vigilant towards the rise of xenophobia and

JOHN STOLTENBERG, 76, Gay, D.C., Writer/Editor,

Democrat: Relieved, for sure. Possibly elated.

HOW WILL YOU FEEL IF TRUMP WINS? MIKE BENTO: Broken. Terrified. Angry. Depressed.

DANA BEYER: The end of the American experi-

ment.

GORDON BINDER, 71, Gay, D.C., Environmental An-

alyst, Independent: Devastated and fearful for the country's future, expecting more damage, more

“It’s crucial Americans vote in every election. There is so much at stake that directly and inexorably touches our lives, our families, our futures.

It is inconceivable to me that anyone with the privilege and right to vote would not exercise it.” —Bob Witeck

cer, Democrat: Relieved and joyous!

violence by the white supremacy groups that will feel they have carte blanche to go after anyone who doesn't agree with them, more tax cuts for the wealthy. Who knows what more he'd dump on us?

RAYCEEN PENDARVIS: My soul will cry out with

ARNOLD BURGESS, 58, Gay, Fla., Unemployed, Dem-

white supremacy and stamp it out wherever we see it, no matter who the president is.

BRETT PARSON, 52, Gay, D.C., Retired Police Offi-

joy!

NEAL RACIOPPO: Like we can finally exhale. Re-

lieved that we have grownups in charge again.

Hopeful that someone can finally put together a national strategy for COVID-19. There may also be socially distanced naked dancing in the streets.

ocrat: Vindicated to the extent that the inherent racism of former USA is as entrenched as ever.

PETER C.: I will worry about the credibility of the

United States and the American presidency in world affairs. I will be annoyed everytime I see or hear him.

RUSSWIN FRANCISCO: Fearful and discouraged.

Although Trump ran as a populist, he is a wanRICHARD ROSENDALL: I will be relieved-more so if we also retake the Senate, without which little nabe plutocrat. I am not looking forward to more will get done. We'll have a lot of work repairing controversies, blatant disregard of the Constitution and democratic norms. Trump's handling of Trump's damage. the COVID-19 pandemic will go down as one of 52

OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

HHH Election 2020 HHH the worst disasters in U.S. history, with nearly 230,000 already dead and millions unemployed.

Trump repeatedly flouted public health guidance and his own CDC, holding packed events during the pandemic and mocking those who wear masks. Americans will be forced to live with more deaths, continued economic upheaval and public unrest. His pandering to the religious right will setback rights for women, minorities and LGBTQIA Americans.

ADAM GARNEK: Honestly, I don't want to com-

ment, but I will. Why? Because we can not stay silent about what we care about. However, I am a Marine Veteran and I feel strongly about leadership, politics, and the military. To whomever leads our country I have respect for as the President as elected by the people. To be in the role is a great accomplishment and the President has vision for our people and the country. So, if my choice of Biden doesn't win, I remain respectful.

DAVID GREER: After Trump steals the election by

disqualifying all the votes coming out of Philadelphia, I will start a five day bender that will become the gist of legends. When I come to, I will claim not to know anything that happened in the last five years. My friends will move me to Palm Springs where I will live on a steady diet of Xanax and lithium.

JOHN GUGGENMOS: I haven't allowed myself to

accept this as even possible, much less what it could actually mean. I'm not the only one who has entirely blocked out thinking that Trump's reign of terror, destruction, and dishonesty could be extended by four more years.

ERIC HALLEY: God help us. AHS: Apocalypse.

KENYA HUTTON: I would be absolutely terrified for myself, and my loved ones.

JOSEPH IZZO: I'd be devastated, and am seriously

considering moving to Canada if they don't erect a Wall to keep out the hoards of USA citizens wanting to evacuate this benighted country.

JOHN KLENERT: Will consider moving.

PAUL M: Will think seriously about leaving the

country.

JOE MCCALL: Encouraged, in that my income will not be targeted. I make almost $1 million a year.

If I'm taxed into oblivion, I'll give less to LGBTQI concerns.

JACK MURPHY: Another Trump win should confirm to every American that violent white supremacy remains virile in this country; his potential win, even the fact that he has a chance of winning, should serve as a wake-up call that, as much as things have changed since 1787 and the legal codification of slavery and Black disenfranchisement, much has stayed the same. We need to continue to fight as hard as we did on the first day of Trump's presidency until the very last. If the past four years have shown the nation and the world anything, it is that the LGBTQ+ community is endlessly resilient. Our spirit of resistance is far older than the Trump presidency; in fact, the history of the LGBTQ community predates even the United States itself. Four more years of a Trump presidency is a chance for us to again lead the nation with love and hope. America is the only home I've ever known, no president, no political movement, no judge or law can change that.

RAYCEEN PENDARVIS: A part of my spirit will die.

PAT REILLY: Like exercising my birthright to be-

come an Irish citizen. I know I should stay and fight, but life is short and he is determined to take this country down an undemocratic path. I cannot live in a country where the majority prefers his brand of bully-mongering with no room for justice.

LINDA RUCCI: Ugh. JOHN STOLTENBERG: Numb and afraid.

BOBBI STRANG: It could very well be the end of OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

53

our nation as we have known it. The 45th president is a fascist with no respect for others or the Constitution. He will be unrestrained in a second term and we will see what it means to live under an authoritarian government.

ROY TYRE, 73, Gay, Fla., Retired from Dept. of De-

sustainable agriculture in ways that incentivise good methods, helping displaced workers in the coal and gas/oil find new opportunities — jobs, training, education, and the like, focusing on resiliency in communitie facing extreme weather events, sea level rise — places that cut across the political spectrum. And of course focus on reopening the country safely.

fense, Democrat: Scared because it will be open season on gay America. Every religious group will make it acceptable to kill LGBTQ Americans. ARNOLD BURGESS: Nothing less than a National Reconciliation Committee will do. Coming to BOB WITECK: If Trump wins, I will feel devas- terms nationally with the past is a step in the tated. It will send me and millions of us into a right direction. tailspin of anxiety and loss of hope however, I will immediately go back to work to try to unseat PETER C.: We need a more balanced media. I'm a Donald Trump through the means of impeach- moderate Democrat. But I am also an observant ment and criminal indictment if possible. We critical thinker. The bias and the spin is palpable. cannot be complacent if the unthinkable occurs and Trump is returned to the White House. I GREGORY CENDANA: We must advance a bold, viwould never go into exile, but remain an Ameri- sionary agenda that tackles the root causes and can and fight back harder than ever. transforms the systems and structures that create conditions for such bitter partisanship. This MERLE YOST: I will be cashing out, packing and includes making it easier to vote, moving to publeaving the country. licly financed campaigns, ending partisan gerrymandering, restoring and expanding voting How do we recover from the bitter rights, growing the courts and shifting more partisanship affecting America right now? funds to directly impacted communities.

MIKE BENTO: We can't rely on our elected officials. We need to take personal responsibility for building a more just and loving community at the neighborhood, local, state and national level.

DANA BEYER: We ignore the fascists, racists and

Nazis, and do what it takes to reform the judiciary, economy, healthcare, criminal justice, etc.

No more "but what will happen when they regain power?" Don't let that happen. Create change that will last for two generations until people forget how awful these days were.

POPPY CHAMPLIN: Beat the Republicans and take

back the Senate is the only way to win. There is no way to agree until the Dems have the power back to lead the correct way. They have been following the wrong leader and need to see the error of their way and get on the right train. Don't need no ticket, you just get on board.

CALEB COPELAND: It starts at the top, and I be-

lieve Biden would lead this country with honor and dignity. I honestly don't think America will recover from the damage Trump has done for many years, and I think much of the recovery GORDON BINDER: A long haul in my view even will be brought about by younger generations. with a change in Administrations and the Senate. There is so much mistrust and antagonisms. RAY DANIELS: New leadership on all levels will What to do? Maybe focus on some serious cur- solve the extreme divide. rent issues, environmental justice, engaging farmers and ranchers in rural states to promote TODD EVANS: Stop with the false equivalences.

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HHH Election 2020 HHH Democrats need to be proud in what they stand for and not afraid to push that forward.

RUSSWIN FRANCISCO: Hyper-partisanship is poi-

soning our politics, making our democracy increasingly dysfunctional. A fixation on our differences is fracturing us into warring tribes.

Polarization has accelerated under Trump but

the ugly right, then we defeat them again in 2024. Again in 2028. By that time Republicans will understand their vision is not a winning message. We will make the right come crawling back waving the white flag. Second is civil war and dissolution of the United States. There is no offering an olive branch of bipartisanship. Republicans only understand the raw act of power.

“We ignore the fascists, racists and Nazis, and do what it takes to reform the judiciary, economy, healthcare, criminal justice.

Create change that will last for two generations until people forget how awful these days were.” —Dana Beyer

he is a symptom of the problem, not its cause.

While our politics are disproportionately dominated by special interests, most Americans want the two parties to find ways to work together in the national interest. I believe we can solve our polarization if enough committed individuals begin building a coalition dedicated to defending our democracy. We need to recognize that the problem of polarization is bigger than politics.

Its cause stems from our economic and cultural divides. The middle class has been squeezed between stagnant wages and lower social mobility for decades. Small businesses struggle as big businesses get massive breaks. The hollowing out of mid-sized manufacturing cities has helped to fuel the rise of populism. We need to seek out economic and social policies that do not divide us even further. We can overcome our polarization by defending core American values. E Pluribus Unum is literally the opposite of "us against them." There is no "them" in the United States.

There is only "us" working to form a more perfect union. Our independence as a nation is inseparable from our interdependence.

The Amy Coney Barrett confirmation is case in point. Only the loss of power and political defeat of the GOP will allow America to recover from bitter partisanship.

JOHN GUGGENMOS: That's a very good question.

How do we put Humpty Dumpty back together again? It's hard to see a clear path forward with any possible remedies for this problem until there's a distinction between social media as platforms or publishers. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram want to be viewed only as a neutral platform with no responsibility for what's appearing on their servers. They say all of the user-generated content and the millions of articles, images, and videos are free speech with no way to efficiently curate the content.

I agree being a gatekeeper is difficult and expensive. However, we wouldn't let a bank operate if it didn't have sufficient capital reserves.

We wouldn't let a plane fly without adequately trained pilots and ground safety crew. And social media companies have the same responsibility to public safety and requirement not to be over-leveraged for the power we have given them. Any DAVID GREER: One of two ways. First, we defeat recovery from bitter partisanship has to include OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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reform on how online platforms work and share misinformation and spread conspiracy theories and how "entertainment opinion shows" on news channels function. We have to have some shared experiences, some way to meet in the middle.

Unfortunately, there is no time in history we can look back for guidance, we're writing this cultural moment in real time.

DAN KAUFMAN: It will take more than a change

in presidential leadership, although that's a good and important start. Trump has made too many feel comfortable with their prejudices.

We need to change our national conversation from who we fear to how we empathize. That's not an easy task.

THOM METZGER: I don't know. The people who

support Trump seem to have an understanding

for anymore except the licking on tRump's boot?

(Not kink-shaming here.) Why should Democrats attempt to mend lines of communication with Republicans, who have ceded the mantle of their party to racist, sexist, craven hypocrites? I mean, fuck that.

PAT REILLY: It will help to have an "American"

president, one who realizes he has the best interests of all Americans in his portfolio. Modeling at the top levels how to stay safe in a pandemic will encourage others to do the same. Restoring the office of Pandemic Control in the executive branch, respecting the advice of top NIH and CDC leaders and getting more stimulus relief to families in need. We must restore and protect the ACA from incursions from the new Supreme Court majority. We must protect the rights of all Americans, seek police reform and judicial re-

“Republican leaders have given complete control of their party to wannabe authoritarians.

Why should Democrats mend lines of communication with Republicans, who have ceded the mantle of their party to racist, sexist, craven hypocrites? I mean, fuck that.” —Neal Racioppo of our world based on fake news, conspiracy the- form. We must message equality every day and ories, and anti-gay and anti-Black views. It's hard in all our national discourse. to bridge a gap when even the smallest things lead to fights.

RICHARD ROSENDALL: We cannot recover without defeating the know-nothingism, nativism, NEAL RACIOPPO: When we use the word "parti- and religious bullying driving Trump's mob. The sanship" we usually mean loyalty to party, i.e. chances of repairing our social fabric improve the Democrats or the Republicans. But Republi- with a new president who is not pathologically can leaders (and followers) have given complete self-absorbed, who sees America's diversity as a control of their party to wannabe authoritarians. strength rather than a threat, heeds experts, and There's a reason why The Lincoln Project exists. seeks to build rather than plunder and dismantle.

The GOP is in shambles and their political power rests on a knife's edge. What do they even stand ZAR: I don't think we do.

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HHH Election 2020 HHH Do you believe your civil rights are at risk in this election?

from their first day in office. And our community is not alone — in their rhetoric and actions, Trump and Pence have targeted the rights of FREDO ALVAREZ: Absolutely. The current admin- our nation's most marginalized. Another four istration has seen fit to go after minorities of ev- years would spell disaster for our community ery stripe. As a gay Hispanic man, I've felt espe- and countless others. And it would likely spell cially vulnerable since the outcome of the 2016 even further erosion of our most basic rights, including our right to vote. election.

MIKE BENTO: Absolutely. Marriage equality is on

JAMES GAGHAN: As an individual that has a back-

ARNOLD BURGESS: Of course! POC have never

JOSEPH IZZO: Absolutely. The alt-right in this

the ballot. Voting rights are on the ballot. Wom- ground of Fillipno and Mexican descent, while en's rights are on the ballot. Criminal justice is often being included as part of the White community there is very little chance that my civil on the ballot. rights are at risk. This election is about more SIANNA BOSCHETTI: Yes! I have had to tell mul- than that however, the risk of others losing both tiple family members that a vote for Biden is a the progress made and their civil rights either vote to keep gay marriage legal. That's far from stripped away or restricted is a danger and could the only civil right at risk; with Trump packing cause a long term pattern of affecting those that the Supreme Court, reproductive healthcare ac- are "not like" those in power. cess, racial justice, religious freedom, and voting KENYA HUTTON: Is water wet? ABSOLUTELY. rights are also on the ballot. country, along with the lunatic QAnon adherents, Christian fascists and White Supremacists want to bring us back to the 1950s where straight, White males enforced segregation, kept women PETER C.: Not particularly, no. as Stepford wives and treated LGBTQ people as CALEB COPELAND: Yes, but I'm far more worried threats to the family, children and national secuabout the civil rights of people of color, undocu- rity. Remember Senator Joseph McCarthy and his closeted side-kick, the infamous Roy Cohn? mented immigrants, and women.

That's what we'd be heading back to.

RAY DANIELS: I absolutely know that my civil DAN KAUFMAN: As a gay man and a Jew, yes, of rights are under attack and on the line. course. But I'm a white male. I'm more or less ALPHONSO DAVID: It could not be more clear: gonna be fine. I'm more concerned about the the civil rights of the LGBTQ community and racial prejudice that's been unleashed full force all marginalized people are on the line in this by Trump and his supporters. The way he talks election. For the past four years, we have seen about race is so vile, but his supporters glom onto relentless attacks on LGBTQ equality and our his words like he's a racial savant. He undernation's progress. From remaking our courts stands nothing except how to generate approval in their own extremist image to denying trans- from his base. If people are hurt in the process, gender people their right to serve, from sup- well, they weren't his supporters anyway, so they porting employment discrimination against us don't really matter to him. to refusing to address issues of discrimination against transgender students in schools, Trump CLINTON MANNING, 54, Gay, Md., Speech Writand his enablers have targeted LGBTQ equality er and Editor, Democrat: Yes. But as an African

been viewed as equal in this country, and don't get me started on the gay aspect.

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American my civil rights are always at risk in the The further the Court goes in removing rights, United States. the more its legitimacy will be in question and the further we will slide toward civil war.

JACK MURPHY: I find this a bit of a funny question because, as a young trans woman, my rights MERLE YOST: There is no question that our civil have been at risk during every election in my rights have been under attack for a long time. lifetime. That being said, this election is partic- The past four years has simply been a more blaularly frightening considering that a Trumpian tant example of those rights being eroded. We victory will likely be seen as a seal of approval on are dangerously close to being a failed state. all sorts of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric spread within the last five years and only serve to motivate fur- Would you trust a coronavirus vaccine ther attacks on my dignity legislatively or oth- if it becomes available while Trump is erwise. On the other hand, a tidal wave Demo- president? Why or why not? cratic victory will be a much-needed repudiation to Trump and the things he and his Republican FREDO ALVAREZ: I don't know. I don't trust anyParty stand for. thing that he or his appointees say. If that bit of Beyond legal rights, the most concerning news comes from a reputable expert, then maybe. change in the last five years has been the rise of overt transphobia in my own community; MIKE BENTO: Not a chance.

Trump's illegitimate win in 2016 seems to have given the o.k to overt racism, homophobia, and DANA BEYER: No. I don't trust Putin. Biden will transphobia. Unfortunately, such hate often rises need to call in Fauci on Nov. 4th (or whenever) to to the level of outright violence. Trans rights have set up a pandemic response team to show leaderbecome part of the larger culture war, placed at ship and ensure the vaccine, if it comes, will be the center of a bigger battle for forward-looking safe and effective. progress and backward-looking regress. Our lives and rights have become a political football. GORDON BINDER: Yes, if the scientific community These changes will take much longer to undo. comes out in favor of it and test results are transWhile Biden has a promising platform when it parent and fully analyzed. comes to LGBTQ rights, changing hearts and minds will prove to be a much more daunting SIANNA BOSCHETTI: I trust vaccines, but if Trump task requiring the full gusto of our community magically came up with something in the next and our allies. But, it is necessary work; since the two weeks, I probably wouldn't take it. That's piecemeal progress at the times of Stonewall to way too fast for a vaccine, and if it didn't work, I today, the effort to roll back the cultural and le- wouldn't want to give anti-vaxxers something to gal advances our community has made has not cling onto for the next however many years. rested even a single day, and neither can we. The work will continue throughout 2020, the Biden PETER C: Yes. Because I trust the FDA and CDC to vet the vaccine in terms of immunological efficapresidency, and the whole decade. cy and safety before allowing it to be distributed.

PAT REILLY: Yes. As long as any one's civil rights are at risk, so are mine.

POPPY CHAMPLIN: I might trust it but I don't think we would get it. Only rich people and those in his RICHARD ROSENDALL: Yes. Queer folk would not upper crust will be able to get the real one. We be first on the chopping block, but the suprem- might get a placebo, or detergent. acists' appetite would grow with every victory before a wildly unrepresentative Supreme Court. RAY DANIELS: No, I would trust nothing before 58

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HHH Election 2020 HHH next fall. And he will no longer be President. Vaccines take time and should not be rushed.

RUSSWIN FRANCISCO: No American or European COVID-19 vaccine has completed Phase 3 clinical safety and efficacy trials. Even the front-runners, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax or Johnson & Johnson, are still signing up volunteers for their clinical trials, which are expected to involve at least 30,000 people per product. Having a vaccine adequately tested and ready for review by Jan. 20, 2021, the end of Trump's first term, is an

ly and effectively bring an end to this epidemic and return to a life of concerts, birthday parties, and families gathered around the Thanksgiving table is the development and distribution of a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. Whether under a Trump, Biden, or Big Bird presidency, I will gladly take a vaccine that is approved by the FDA and demonstrated to be safe by its developers. I reject the anti-scientific swing of the Republican Party on everything from Coronavirus to climate change. I trust the career scientist at the FDA to make non-partisan decisions about

“[If Trump wins I’ll be] exercising my birthright to become an Irish citizen. I know I should stay and fight, but

I cannot live in a country where the majority prefers his brand of bullymongering with no room for justice.” —Pat Reilly impossibility. It would take an act of God to convince me that any decision to approve a vaccine

by November is not an election maneuver.

the efficacy of a would-be vaccine. And, I reject the rhetoric of the anti-vax movement which puts people at risk of catching things from measles to meningitis.

ADAM GARNEK: You know they say there are no However, in order for trust to be established, stupid questions. Well, I just read one. Now for it is essential that whichever party controls the a response. If anyone in their right mind trusts White House at the time of a vaccine's eventual a vaccine developed in a short period of time re- approval does not tout this triumph in a partisan gardless of who's President, they need to get their way. head examined. Trust the process and testing of the process first before possibly killing yourself What I am less confident about is the ability and with stupidity. This question aggravated and willingness of the medical-industrial complex upset me. Don't know why I wasted my time re- to distribute the future vaccine in an equitable sponding. way. We have already seen how greedy pharmaceutical corporations have needlessly prolonged DAVID GREER: I am laughing so hard even read- the AIDS epidemic by putting prevention drugs ing this question. Donald Trump will literally like PrEP out of reach for many lower-income announce anything about a vaccine if it will help folks. The government must ensure that the vachim politically. So no. I do not trust anything cine is free, widely available, and easy to access. coming out of the orangutan.

Better yet, a system of universal Medicaid should be instituted as soon as possible to ensure equal JACK MURPHY: The best chance for us to quick- access to a vaccine and all forms of treatment.

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Not only will this help establish a more equal and successful system of healthcare in our country, bringing us in line with much of the developed world, but it will also serve as a protective force against future pandemics (that experts say should be expected). Equal access to healthcare isn't just a pipedream of free stuff, it is a practical plan that will improve societal health and make us more resilient against the new and complex health threats of the dynamic 21st century.

don't become fodder for the next authoritarian/ totalitarian.

SIANNA BOSCHETTI: I think Biden stated it well in the final presidential debate: "The character of our country is on the ballot." Americans on both sides of the aisle can decide to bite the bullet and vote for a centrist of an establishment Democrat, or willingly submit to at least four more years of watching our country descend into chaos.

PAT REILLY: If a vaccine becomes available be-

DONALD BURCH: Voting is one of the most im-

fore February, I will look to the leadership of portant rights that we have. Voting should be reNIH on whether it's safe for me and my pre-ex- quired here as it is in some other countries. isting conditions. Specifically, if Tony Fauci says take it, I will.

PETER C.: It's the best way to express one's preference. Not to vote is to allow someone else to ZAR: No. I'm leery about any vaccine, especially choose for you. If you don't vote, you really have a new one which hasn't been adequately test- no room to complain about the outcome. So I

“After Trump steals the election by disqualifying all the votes coming out of Philadelphia, I will start a five day bender.

When I come to, my friends will move me t o Palm Springs where I will live on a steady diet of Xanax and lithium.” —David Greer ed. The CDC under Trump has no credibility; I guess I see voting as more of a duty, but also a would be more comfortable with a vaccine devel- right that ought not be squandered. oped in a country with a functional government.

RAY DANIELS: It is important to vote in every elecWhy is it important that Americans vote in tion but this one will literally change the trajecthis election? tory of our democracy in the most profound way.

FREDO ALVAREZ: It's important to vote in EVERY

ALPHONSO DAVID: Right now, our lives depend

election, whether or not a Presidential race is on on our vote more than ever before. More than the ballot. But this year, the stakes are too high to 225,000 people have died from COVID-19 in let your voice go unheard. the United States with no vaccine in sight, and we are confronting systemic racial injustice that DANA BEYER: Because apathy is dangerous, and Black and Brown people have endured for far too people need to learn basic civics and take re- long in this country. None of us can afford to be sponsibility for their government. Those that silent. We know voting alone will not fix our bro60

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HHH Election 2020 HHH ken system. But we also know that nothing will get fixed if we don't vote.

using a wrecking ball as a management tool. How much longer can we last if we can't agree on the concept of truth? If the "news source" used not SANDY FABIO: Everyone has a right to vote even only was there no guarantee that we'd be seeing if I don't agree. My three sisters support Trump precisely the same facts but almost guaranteed but I can't convince them otherwise. It is a right that it wouldn't be the same, a decade or maybe the people have fought for. I went to War for this two? country and paid a high price but I did it to proThe hyper-tribalism encouraged and promottect our democracy. ed by the White House is poisonous. And we need to be able to talk about issues in ways that RUSSWIN FRANCISCO: One of the most important allow for civil conversation, that aren't happenrights of American citizens is the right to vote. ing online in 140 characters. We need to end the Protection and equal treatment under the law, obscene idea that the Washington Post and Breitdue process, access to housing, resources and bart news have any equivalence. We can't collecservices, our basic liberties are contingent on our tively throw our hands up in the air. We have to participation as a nation to elect officials that best reject Trump and all that he stands for, we have represent our interests and the common good. to vote him out.

Vote because our lives depend on it. In 2020, our lives literally depend on it.

JOSEPH IZZO: If you wish to live in a democracy where everyone has equal rights to life, liberty DAVID GREER: Because this is an epochal election. and the pursuit of happiness, it's your civic duty Just as the 1932 and the 1980 elections changed to vote in every election. DEMOCRACY IS NOT direction of the country for generations, so now A SPECTATOR SPORT! Get off your ass and 2020 will too, if Joe Biden wins. In 1932 Ameri- VOTE! cans chose the security provided by a strong social safety net. That position prevailed in some JOHN KLENERT: Simple. All elections matter! form for 50 years. In 1980, Americans chose limited government to unleash American ingenui- RON MERCER, 68, Gay, N.Y., Retired, Democrat: ty. 40 years later, after two economic collapses, You don't vote, you lose your bitching rights. devastating wars, a climate out of control and a global pandemic, Americans will embrace the THOM METZGER: Nothing is more important. Our size and power of big government to solve these system hasn't been adequately representative problems. But only if we vote for Joe Biden. of all Americans, because so many people don't participate. If everyone voted, our system would GARRY GSQUARE: It is how we bring about change be so different. Let's join together and change in our democracy. If you don't vote, don't com- our country for the better! plain. Thousands have died to defend and support our freedoms. It's the least we can do to say ADAM O.: Civil rights are at stake and we have an thank you to those individuals. incompetent president that can't handle a crisis.

Go out and vote if you haven't. Know the rules for JOHN GUGGENMOS: I wonder if this is what it felt your jurisdiction. Swallow your pride if you have like in the final years of the Roman Republic? We issues with the rules. Go get your vote counted! can't have a healthy democracy for many more Way too much is at stake here. years if we are on a diet of misinformation, lies, and half-truths. It's difficult, if not impossible, for NEAL RACIOPPO: If America goes down in flames, our country and our institutions to survive when we're taking the rest of the planet down with us the people in charge of taking care of them, are and that is too sad to even contemplate. We need OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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GAGE SKIDMORE

to get on our knees and beg the rest of the world to forgive us and take us back: Baby, we screwed up, like, BIG TIME, please, please don't go, we are so sorry. Please, let us make it up to you. Let's lead the way on climate change. Let's preserve and protect LGBTQ rights. Let's make Kamala Harris the first BIPOC VP. Let the hell of the past four years mean something by galvanizing the electorate to participate in the election at a level not seen in a generation. Let's make America great again, by having it be great in new ways: with affordable health care for all, a New Green Deal, a 51st state called D.C., Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill. Let's ensure that America is a country we can all be proud to call home. I mean, we can't ALL move to New Zealand.

PAT REILLY: Donald Trump is a dangerous person to have in power. The Senate is opportunistically looking the other way on things he has done that are blatantly illegal. I really believe that he is unhinged and that the 25th Amendment should at least have been considered by the Congress. The only way to remove him now is through the ballot box. I hope it's a landslide so that the "Proud Boys" and their ilk don't think they have any cause to rampage.

Any citizen who does not vote is reneging on the most important responsibility of being a citizen of this once exemplary country. At least voters can say that we did what we could to save democracy.

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BOBBI STRANG: The only way we can hold back

the rising tide of fascism in our nation is by voting in large numbers. A clear and decisive electoral win for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris is the best way to do this. The 45th president, as a narcissist, would hopefully be too humiliated to instigate violence under those circumstances.

A narrow Biden win could result in the current president encouraging violence and civil unrest — as well as a court battle that would end up in front of a packed Supreme Court.

BOB WITECK: It's crucial Americans vote in every

election. There is so much at stake that directly and inexorably touches our lives, our families, our futures. It is inconceivable to me that anyone with the privilege and right to vote would not exercise it. I first voted in 1972 and have never missed an election since.

MERLE YOST: Either vote or shut up. We have a

method for participating in our government, and this is it. We are a nation of victims and complainers. This is the chance to do something, and stop being a victim.

Please make sure you vote on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

For more information, visit www.vote.gov.

To participate in the next Metro Weekly Forum, please join our email list at www.metroweekly.com/join.

Movies

Twice is Nice

B

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm brings the laughs and the cringe in equal measure. By André Hereford

ORAT SAGDIYEV’S PRANKSTER REPutation precedes him. Fourteen years since Sacha Baron Cohen introduced the Kazakhstani mischief-maker and his mankini in the massively successful, Oscar-nominated Borat, even the vaguely pop culture-aware can recognize his mustachioed visage, or catch a “Very nice!” reference. So who’s still getting pranked

by Borat, or any Cohen character who resembles him at this point? The President’s personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani, that’s who.

In Rudy’s defense, he isn’t fooled by Borat during the jaw-dropping near-climax to sequel Borat Subsequent Moviefilm (HHHHH). Instead, the former mayor of New York is taken by Cohen in another disguise, and by his main accomplice in the film, Bulgarian actress Maria Bakalova, playing Borat’s daughter Tutar pretending to be a Russian reporter. So it doesn’t take a spy agency or foreign government to catch Trump’s consigliere with his hands down his pants inside a 64

OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

hotel room with an attractive Russian he’s never met. Just two committed comedians and a well-prepared crew get the job done, and that’s not even this film’s most audacious stunt. Borat also crashes a speech by Mike Pence at the Conservative Political Action Conference while wearing a well-chosen disguise.

Directed by Jason Woliner (making his feature debut, after cutting his teeth on TV comedies like What We Do in the Shadows), the film addresses the obstacle of Borat’s fame with humor, ingenuity, and by relying on the rapid-fire talents of Bakalova. She carries much of the bizarre, yet politically astute plot about Borat trying to impress Trump by delivering a gift to “Vice-Pussy-grabber” Pence. A formidable onetwo punch, Bakalova and Cohen both can go big or play it straight, depending on the situation, and their comic rhythm develops into a surprisingly sweet father-daughter match as they prank their way across America, from a debutante ball continues on page 52

Movies

Hair-Raising

A

An evil weave goes on a deadly rampage in Justin Simien’s horror spoof Bad Hair. By André Hereford

N AMBITIOUS ENTRY IN THE CAMP horror canon, Bad Hair (HHHHH) hits harder as an ’80s-spoofing comedy than with its supernatural tale of a young Black TV exec pulled asunder by her cursed hair weave.

Drawing on folklore, horror legend, and the knotty racial history of changing attitudes towards Black folks’ hair, the film provides some fierce scares and cultural commentary, before a third-act plot implosion wraps writer-director Justin Simien’s satire on a blah note.

The Dear White People creator’s film follows bright but timid Anna (Elle Lorraine) into the cutthroat corporate environs of music video channel RMV. Anna wears her hair natural, and she’s deemed too “urban” for a VJ gig at rock-driven RMV, though she’s not “urban” enough for an on-camera spot at corporate sister

network Culture, where she toils as an associate producer. But Anna gets her chance to move up at Culture when new management, led by the ’80s-movie villain-esque Grant Madison (James Van Der Beek), shuffles the deck of on-air talent.

Anna finally has an on-air opportunity dangled under her nose — but first, she’ll need to spruce up her look a little. Wouldn’t she like her hair to be straight, long, and easy, like her new boss, the “first-Black supermodel” Zora Choice?

Played by a true legend, Vanessa Williams, Zora registers as not that far on the bad bitch spectrum from Williams’ devious Ugly Betty magazine exec Wilhelmina Slater. Williams probably never cursed so much in a movie, and it’s glorious to hear the star dropping f-bombs with trademark flair, while rocking the fabulous, big shoulder-padded wardrobe. Also, Zora has an OCTOBER 29, 2020 • METROWEEKLY.COM

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intriguing twinkle of a sinister secret hidden beneath her serpentine weave.

“It’s just hair,” the boss declares, but nappy versus straight hair has never been about just hair in this country. Simien weaves the tangled cultural web of racial hatred into the mix of deadly shenanigans caused by the wicked, blood-sucking, real human hair that Anna has added (painfully) to her scalp. But then the film can’t decide if Anna is victim or villain. Her friends and co-workers are drawn into the web, and the film skates past or through significant turns of plot or emotion,

relying more on visual effects than suspenseful direction. Lorraine’s flat lead performance, alas, does not provide the galvanizing energy to hold it all together.

The movie’s comic voice and well-crafted ’80s vibe are what hold it together. From co-star Lena Waithe’s perfect Salt-n-Pepa-style, asymmetrical, braided bob to the choice casting of music superstars Kelly Rowland and Usher as New Jack celebrities of 1989, the comical costumes, hair, and music definitely have the right stuff, and do not disappoint.

Bad Hair is available for streaming on Hulu. Visit www.hulu.com.

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to a Republican Women’s Club meeting.

Borat and Tutar even venture to a March for Our Rights anti-mask rally, stepping right into 2020 existence. The film and its humor reside on a razor-thin line between staged and spontaneous, faked and real. It’s eerie when it’s not hilarious, and sometimes it’s both. Borat himself, the naïve and offensive, wild-and-crazy guy in the boxy, gray suit still resides on that line, and Cohen mines new layers of humanity from the character in his fumbling attempts to better understand his daughter. His trusted daughter-raising manual by the Kazakhstan Ministry of Agriculture and Wildlife only gets him so far.

But again, Borat’s too famous to fool all of the

people, all of the time, so he’s often buried beneath additional layers of fake hair and padding.

His personality is missed. Also missing much of the time is the element of surprise. Borat’s first trip to America, and the decade-and-a-half of cringe comedy since, have primed the audience to anticipate exactly where his pranks are headed. Yet, somehow unsuspecting innocents, and some who have it coming, are drawn eagerly into embarrassing themselves, or exposing themselves for our entertainment. And even when the movie signals where it’s going — when Borat and Tutar decide to bust out a traditional fertility dance at the deb ball, for example — Cohen and Bakalova make each set-piece count by leaving it all on the floor.

Borat Subsequent Moviefilm is available for streaming on Amazon Prime. Visit www.amazon.com.

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RetroScene

Halloween, 2001-2019. Apex, Chaos, Cobalt, Duplex Diner, Fireplace, Freddie’s, Fuego, Green Lantern, JR.’s, Omega, Town, VelvetNation, Ziegfeld’s/Secrets.

Photography by Metro Weekly Staff Photographers • For more #RetroScene follow us on Instagram at @MetroWeekly

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LastWord.

People say the queerest things

“ I have no faith in Judge Barrett to respect the progress the #LGBTQ community has worked so hard to achieve.

Amy Coney Barrett is a real threat to LGBTQ rights and freedoms.”

—U.S. Sen. TAMMY BALDWIN (D-WI), who is lesbian, in a tweet after Amy Coney Barrett was confirmed to the Supreme Court.

“The irony is

thicker than your boyfriend.”

— Southern Charm star SHEP ROSE, in a tweet commenting on U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham celebrating the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. “Now she can decide against gay people like you,” Rose wrote. “And you’ll go ahead and have clandestine same-sex relationships while betraying good and decent and amazing openly gay people.”

“ We are extremely grateful that this fight is over and won.”

—Derek Mize and Jonathan Gregg, one of two gay couples celebrating after the trump administration stopped trying to deny citizenship to their children. The State Department has withdrawn an appeal over the citizenship of Roee and Adiel Kiviti’s daughter and opted not to appeal a ruling regarding Mize and Gregg’s daughter, after previously arguing that neither child qualified for U.S. citizenship.

“This flies in the face of everything that we’ve been taught,

everything that we’ve been trained, everything that exists in our national code of conduct and our code of ethics.

”

—Texas state Rep. DIEGO BERNAL (D), who is also a social worker, speaking to the Texas Tribune after Republican Gov. Gregg Abbott pushed the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners to allow social workers to refuse to help LGBTQ and disabled people.

The board has since repealed that decision, following outcry.

“Trump-linked U.S. evangelicals, funded by secret donors, are exporting homophobia around the world.”

—LGBTQ activist PETER TATCHELL, speaking to PinkNews about an openDemocracy report which found that 28 right-wing Christian groups have spent hundreds of millions of dollars around the world since 2008 as part of efforts to revoke or hinder LGBTQ rights.

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