O&AN I November 2013 by Out & About Nashville

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NOVEMBER 2013 VOLUME 12 | ISSUE 11

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Nashville begins looking at same-sex benefits

JAMES A. GRADY

The march forward of LGBT rights is perhaps most visible in the push for marriage equality across the country, but across the country thousands of smaller steps are being made. One such step is the move, endorsed by 26 Metro Nashville city council members, to initiate a process which could ultimately lead to the extension of domestic partner benefits to same-sex couples working for the city government. The Tennessee Equality Project (TEP) has been promoting such initiatives statewide. Knoxville’s recent move to extend domestic partner benefits illustrates the diversity of processes by which such advances are made. Knoxville’s city charter allowed Mayor Madeline Rogero to enact the change by executive order. In Nashville on the other hand, the process has been and will be procedurally more complicated. According to Chris Sanders, Executive Director of TEP, the organization has “met with council members to help shape the discussion of domestic partner benefits, and to discuss the needs and concerns of the LGBT community.” As early as the 2011 elections, support for extending benefits to same sex couples was an issue the organization tracked on its candidate position surveys, and the findings of these surveys helped indicate that the time was coming to raise the issue with predictably broad support. On October 2, a memo signed by 26 City Council members, was sent to the mayor, formally requesting - as required by the city charter - that the mayor appoint a “Study and Formulating Committee specifically to consider the provision of domestic partner benefits for Metro employees and to make the appropriate recommendations to the Metropolitan Employee Benefit Board.” In support of its request, the memo cited Metro’s own anti-discrimination

Response from Mayor Dean’s office had been predictably positive. Like the memo he received, the mayor’s statement cites widespread benefits extensions among municipalities and corporations. The mayor’s statement however goes further, pointing out that benefits equality is just a smart HR practice: “Offering a competitive level of benefits attracts employees and is a smart way to do business.” This raises one of the tangible benefits to the city itself of extending benefits: as Councilman Westerholm put it, Nashville needs to position itself “to attract new Metro employees from a pool of talent which expects such benefits for same-sex partners.” Likewise, Metro employee retention will benefit from benefits equality, and prevent “brain drain” from Metro departments.

ordinance, as well as moves by other government bodies and corporations to extend such benefits. Councilman Westerholm, one of the chief backers of the move and the memo’s first signer, expects the mayor will have a list of names for the Confirmations Committee soon, and that once confirmed the study committee will begin its work almost immediately. The recommendations of the committee will ultimately have to be approved as a city ordinance by the city council. Chris Sanders optimistic, given the level support: “We’re off to a very good start.”

Families of long-term Metro employees like Bob Benson have long faced additional financial burdens not faced by their heterosexual, married colleagues. Benson and his partner Michael have been together for 12 years but Michael has to purchase a separate, more expensive individual insurance rather than joining Bob on a Metro family plan. This burden is multiplied by the fact that since the two are on separate plans, each has to meet his own out-of-pocket maximum: last year

“

We’re off to a very good start.

Metro employee Bob Benson is just one of many Metro employees’ families negatively affected by the lack of same-sex benefits.

“

NOVEMBER 2013

PHOTO BY O&AN STAFF

Bob met his early in the year, but Michael’s medical expenses continued to impact the couples finances at full price. Additionally, while his colleagues receive bereavement days for the death of close family of their spouses, Bob had to take vacation days to stand by his partner at the funeral of his mother. Despite his love for his work in the Metro Parks Department, Bob knows “there are many other employers in Nashville that already offer same-sex benefits, and so [seeking other employment] has been a tempting thought, but I’ve held out with hope that maybe one day this would happen.” Now it seems that day may be near. Councilman Westerholm reports that a number of council members have heard stories like Bob’s. While the true costs of the lack of benefits equality is hard to measure, the present push for benefits equality for Metro Nashville employees reflects an understanding that, as Westerholm put it, extending benefits to domestic partners is “the right thing to do, for Nashville to be seen as a progressive, welcoming place that supports diversity and treats its workers well.”

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Out & About Nashville welcomes volunteer writers, photographers and videographers throughout the year. If you’re interested in contributing to our publication, send an email to editor@ outandaboutnashville.com with a resume, contact information and samples of your work if available. Our volunteer staff is unpaid, but contributors do receive credit for their work in our print publication and online. Those seeking an internship in journalism or mass communications are strongly encouraged to apply. Cover Illustration: Diane Burrows/Art Excellentz Cover Design: Tylor Loposser

LEGAL Judy was right! Surprise and excitement, all wrapped up around awesome. It’s the St. Louis you didn’t know. From the coolest clubs in the Midwest to the best cuisine and culture you never expected. Pack for the city that The Advocate called “…the LGBT beacon of the Midwest.” See you soon. Check out our impressive packages at explorestlouis.com/LGBT

Out & About Nashville strives to be a credible community news organization by engaging and educating our readers. All content of Out & About Nashville is copyrighted 2013 by Out & About Nashville, Inc. and is protected by federal copyright law and shall not be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. All photography is licensed stock imagery or has been supplied unless otherwise credited to a photographer and may not be reproduced without permission. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or pictorial representations does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of the person or persons. Out & About Nashville accepts unsolicited material but cannot take responsibility for its return. The editor reserves the right to accept, reject or edit and submission. All rights revert to authors upon publication. The editorial positions of Out & About Nashville are expressed in editorials and in the editor’s notes as determined by the editor. Other opinions are those of writers and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Out & About Nashville or its staff. Letters to the editor are encouraged but may be edited for clarity and length. All letters sent may not be published. Out & About Nashville only accepts adult advertising within set guidelines and on a case by case basis.

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Same-sex couples file marriage recognition lawsuit in Tennessee O&AN STAFF REPORTS

On October 21, four Tennessee samesex couples, legally married in other states, filed a lawsuit in federal district court challenging the Tennessee laws that prevent the state from recognizing their marriages and treating them the same as all other legally married couples in Tennessee. Tennessee law currently prohibits recognition of their marriages and treats the couples as legal strangers. The lawsuit argues that Tennessee’s laws prohibiting recognition of the couples’ marriages violates the federal Constitution’s guarantees of equal protection and due process and the constitutionally protected right to travel between and move to other states. The couples are Dr. Valeria Tanco and Dr. Sophy Jesty of Knoxville; Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Ijpe DeKoe and Thom Kostura of Memphis ; Kellie Miller and Vanessa DeVillez of Greenbrier; and Matthew Mansell and Johno Espejo of Franklin. The couples are represented by Nashville attorneys Abby R. Rubenfeld, William Harbison, Scott Hickman, Phil Cramer and John Farringer of the law firm of Sherrard & Roe, the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), and attorneys Maureen T. Holland of Memphis and Regina Lambert of Knoxville. “Tennessee recognizes the marriages and families of all other couples that were married out-of-state,” said Harbison, a partner at Sherrard & Roe, in a press release. “It is wrong and unfair for Tennessee law to single out these legally married couples and treat them as legal strangers to one another simply because of who they are.” Plaintiffs from the suit held a Nashville

Nashville attorney Abby Rubenfeld discusses the federal lawsuit filed on October 21.

Vanessa DeVillez (left) and Kellie Miller of Greenbrier, Tn. talk abot moving back to Tennessee after being legally married in New York.

press conference on October 21 where they were asked about the difficulties they and their families have faced trying to navigate their marriage under Tennessee Law. Dr. Valeria Tanco and Dr. Sophia Jesty, who both teach at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in Knoxville, explained the hardships they faced in Tennessee as they expect their first child. “When we were able to conceive and I became pregnant, health insurance became a very important thing,” explained Tanco. “We were covered but we were

Matthew Mansell of Franklin, Tn. tells reporters about his families’ experiences with the Tennessee state law banning recognition of his marriage.

trying to get under a family plan and working at a state institution, we were denied.” Like Tanco and Jesty, Kellie Miller and Vanessa DeVillez, also experienced difficulties in maintaining partner coverage for health benefits.

NOVEMBER 2013

Matthew Mansell, who has two small children with his partner, spoke about the difficulties of explaining to their young children why they are not married in Tennessee. Sergeant DeKoe, who served a tour of duty in Afghanistan but was not in attendance, said in a press release: “Fairness and equality are the guiding principles of our government, and as a member of the armed forces, I have fought and will continue to fight for those principles. After returning to Memphis with Thom, I was saddened to learn that Tennessee law does not live up to those ideals in the way it treats married same-sex couples.” The Next Steps “The suit we filed is pretty narrow and focused,” Rubenfeld explained when speaking to those gathered at the Tennessee Equality Project Volunteer Orientation, hours after the suit was filed. “It’s a first step. What we filed is different then what’s been filed in any other state. It’s a pure recognition case.” But what about those who live in Tennessee and are not married in other states? “Our theory is that this is a logical small step from the Windsor case. It is part of a broad, accepted American principal in our governmental system that people move around and what happens in one state gets recognized in another. So we think it’s going to be simple to do and once they do that it’s a really clear equal protection issue.” When asked about a realistic timeline Rubenfeld responded: “If we can do it just on cross motions or summary judgment and not worry about a trial or anything, by the end of the year or early part of next year. I’ve been telling people we’ll have marriage equality in Tennessee in two years.”

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HRC-Nashville Announces 2014 HRC Dinner Gala O&AN STAFF REPORTS

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC)Nashville Steering Committee announced the date and location of the annual HRC Dinner Gala. The event will take place on March 8, 2014 at the Renaissance Downtown Hotel. The Annual HRC Dinner Gala is held to celebrate the accomplishments made through the efforts of the Human Rights Campaign and its members and supporters. The Dinner Gala includes national speakers and advocates for equality, a silent auction, and renowned entertainers. “HRC and the rest of the LGBT community has been very successful over the last year,” stated HRC-Nashville Co-Chairman Steven Altum. “The HRC Dinner Gala is a great time for members and supporters of equality to gather together and celebrate our successes and help plan for the future.” Each year the HRC Dinner Gala is supported by several local and national corporations that have made equality a corner stone of their corporate philosophy. Last year, these corporate sponsors helped

to raise tens of thousands of dollars to help the fight for equality across the country. “HRC could not be successful without the countless number of small businesses and large corporations that have stood up for equality,” said HRC Governor JR Simon. “The stand that these businesses have made truly show the power of our movement and the bright future ahead.” The Human Rights Campaign is the largest LGBT rights advocacy organization in the United States. Headquartered in Washington, DC, HRC fights every day for the rights of all LGBT persons and helps to develop pro-LGBT public policy. There are currently thirty-three steering committees in cities across the country that help manage local volunteers, events and political movements. The HRC-Foundation is a separate branch of the Human Rights Campaign that manages several social improvement programs under the HRC umbrella. These programs include: the Corporate Equality Index (CEI), Same Schools/Anti-Bullying Campaign, and LGBT adoption support services.

For more information on sponsoring the dinner gala or volunteering on the dinner committee please contact JR Simon at jsimon@hrctn.org.

“We look forward to another exciting year with our annual festival that continues to grow, all of our best events like Martinis & Jazz, and Pride Rocks! Pre-Party,” Woodson said. “We look forward to sharing the fun and Nashville Pride announces new board members and program some new surprises and ‘benefits’ along the way with our long-time supporters and many new ones.” O&AN STAFF REPORTS New additions to the at-large board A new slate of board members has are Debra Hyslop, John McManus been named to the Nashville Pride board and Kerrie Turney. Returning board and they are hoping to kick-off planning members include Pastor Greg Bullard, for the 26th annual festival with the help Lisa Howe, MAC, Heather Thompson, of some “Friends with Benefits.” Returning to the executive board with Metro Councilman Peter Westerholm and Milton White. more than 15 combined years of service The group recently launched to Pride are: Past- President Allan Gonce, “Friends with Benefits,”a new President Joseph Woodson, Presidentprogram to garner early donations Elect Claudia Huskey, Treasurer Christy Ikner, Marketing Director Joey Leslie and by incentivizing donors with perks Festival Director Jack Davis. Todd Howell including discounted tickets to popular annual events such as ‘2 Chefs 2 Visions’ joins the board as Secretary. and VIP Admission to the annual Woodson said the board is already festival and more. Memberships start getting to work planning for the 2014 at $150. More information can found at festival after a successful twenty-fifth NashvillePride.org/FWB. anniversary celebration this year.

You will find that people who were having things made when tailoring was at it’ s peak were a rather large proportion of aristocrats, privaleged lay-abouts, and also criminals and rogues like the Kray Twins. The clothes are just a hob for a private gentle club of interesting characters, gentlemen, and rogues, who I am very very happy to see, and ask for beautiful suits to be made but to also break bread and share stories. If you have stories you can always make new friends, and you can always have a good time. Cheers,

francis merriman

.com

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GLAAD releases annual TV report O&AN STAFF REPORTS

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PHOTO COURTESY OF NBC

GLAAD, the nation’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) media advocacy organization, today released its two annual television reports – the 7th annual Network Responsibility Index (NRI) and the 18th annual Where We Are on TV Report. These reports map the quantity, quality, and diversity of images of LGBT people on television. While the NRI looks backward at the previous season and rates networks on LGBT-inclusive content between June 2012 and May 2013, the Where We Are on TV report is a character count and analysis of scripted characters in the upcoming 2013-2014 season. In its Network Responsibility Index, which rates LGBT content on networks during the 2012-2013 TV season that wrapped earlier this year, GLAAD found FOX was the most inclusive broadcast network with 42% of primetime programming hours having included LGBT images and earning FOX a rating of Good. Each network is reviewed on a scale of Excellent, Good, Adequate, or Failing. No network received an Excellent rating this year. ABC came in second place for the number of inclusive hours at 33% and also earned a score of Good. On cable, ABC Family was the most inclusive network GLAAD tracked last year with 50% of its original programming including LGBT impressions or storylines. It was followed by FX at 40%. History

received a Failing grade with no LGBT images on any of its shows last season. In its Where We Are on TV report which counts the number of LGBT characters in the 2013-2014 television season which just began, GLAAD found that 3.3% of primetime broadcast scripted series regulars will be LGBT characters, following the record high number of LGBT series regulars (4.4%) counted on broadcast television in last year’s report. There will be an equal number of women and men among LGBT characters during the 2013-2014 broadcast season, showing an effort from networks to diversify storylines beyond the white gay male narrative most commonly seen on television. “Last season was a stellar one when it comes to the sheer number of gay, lesbian and bisexual representations on television, though diversity within those storylines showed room for improvement,” said GLAAD’s Wilson Cruz. “Though the number of LGBT characters dropped this season, shows like The Fosters, with an interracial female couple raising a family, and characters like Unique on Glee have not only moved the conversation about LGBT people forward, but are also a hit with audiences.” “Our television images not only reach American audiences, but countless others around the world. It is time for the television networks to make new and groundbreaking LGBT stories a priority once again,” said Cruz.

To view the full reports visit http://glaad.org/tvreport13 NOVEMBER 2013

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OutCentral announces 2014 membership drive Announcement coincides with Autumn Honors

to scenes from Cake or Death, the latest theatre production from the geniuses who brought Nashville Southern Baptist Sissies, KirkAt this year’s Autumn Honors, Burgess Productions. A portion of the the OutCentral Board—present, production’s proceeds will benefit past and soon-to be past—gathered to celebrate and honor the “cultural OutCentral. Cake or Death runs through November 9 at the achievements of GLBTQIF Darkhorse Theatre. Nashvillians and their allies.” The During the event, OutCentral celebration marked OutCentral’s fifth announced its new donation anniversary as Nashville’s cultural partnership with Network for Good and diversity center. and tiered membership levels. The event, which drew nearly 50 “We’re jumpstarting our semicommunity leaders from Nashville dormant membership campaign,” Pride, Brothers and Sisters United said OutCentral Board Chair Joe (BASU), Nashville CARES, Morris. “We have our eye towards Nashville Black Pride, GLSEN growing our membership base to Middle Tennessee and Vanderbilt serve two purposes: to bring in a Office of LGBTQI Life, was steady source of income every month presented by Elan Salon. and to help us get the word out about Honorees included: Mark programming and bring in new ideas Hubbard, Dwayne Jenkins, Mark for programming.” Lopez, MAC, Van Pond, Jr., Dr. So if you’ve ever wondered how Marisa Richmond and Brian and you could get involved, there is a Laura Rossbert. membership level for all budgets. Those attending were treated JOSEPH BROWNELL

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STUDENT / TIGHT BUDGET

For $3.33 per month, or $10 quarterly, you’ll receive an OutCentral bracelet.

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For $5 a month, or $15 quarterly, you’ll receive your very own OutCentral t-shirt (once designed and printed).

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For $10 a month, you’ll receive your very own Gay 5K t-shirt (printed in June). Be the envy of all your friends without having to even put on jogging shoes.

ADVOCATE

For $25 a month, you’ll receive free admission to the Gay 5K in June and a ticket to their Autumn Honors event in fall. This is a $40 value (just for admission), and a chance to meet and mingle at their most popular events.

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For $50 a month, you will receive all the OutCentral gifts and Gay 5K/Autumn Honors perks mentioned above.

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For $100 a month, you will receive all the OutCentral gifts and Gay 5K/Autumn Honors perks mentioned above, free admission to all OutCentral programming, and free usage of the great room for event space, good for one evening a month (booked in advance). For greater levels, visit the OutCentral Membership donation page at https://donatenow. networkforgood.org/OutCentral or scan the QR Code below.

Highlights from Tastefully Unpredictable JOSEPH BROWNELL

that transformation of Ms. Nashville Pride, Jaidynn Diore Fierce. The successful silent auction kept attendees milling about watching their bids on exciting packages from the Nashville Predators and Cher tickets. There were many food and beverage vendors on hand competing for 2013 prizes. Our personal favorites? The Sweet Potato Mini Cupcake from The Cupcake Collection and the delectable Shrimp and Grit Bites from Savor the Flavor Catering.

DRAG SHOW Y A D I FR NOV 8

:00 PEN AT 7 8:00 O S R O T DO TARTS A SHOW S

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JESSI COGGINS

On October 27, the Nashville LGBT Chamber of Commerce presented its second annual Tastefully Unpredictable, unveiled their new logo inside its gift bags and also announced that it was now accepting nominations for its Excellence in Business Awards, scheduled for April. Hundreds gathered at OZ in West Nashville for a night that included popup art exhibits. In an exciting piece of performance art, as the evening came to a close, dozens gathered around to watch

Awards for the 2013 Tastefully Unpredictable were as follows: + Best Appetizer: 1808 Grille + Best Entrée: The Chef and I + Best Dessert: Jeni’s Ice Cream + Best Presentation: Gaylord Opry + Best Booth Décor: Savor the Flavor Catering + Best Cocktail: 308 Bar + People’s Choice: 1808 Grille NOVEMBER 2013

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MARRIAGE EQUALITY IMPACT MAP November 2013

1. New Jersey It was just a matter of time until Chris Christie admitted defeat and that happened in mid-October when samesex marriages became legal in the state of New Jersey. New Jersey became the 14th state in the US to do so.

2. New Mexico:

The laws governing marriage New Mexico is the only state in the US that lacks a statute or constitutional amendment specifically addressing same-sex marriages. And now that and estimated 1,500 same-sex couples have been granted marriage licenses, the New Mexico Supreme Court heard cases on October 23. No word yet when or what the court will decide.

5 STATES WITH MARRIAGE EQUALITY

In late October thousands of marriage equality supporters rallied outside of the state Capitol to demand action on the state’s stalled marriage equality bill.

5. Hawaii

At press time, the Hawaii State legislature is convening a special session to decide the fate of marriage equality. Currently, Hawaii recognize civil unions but should lawmakers decide to pass the bill, same-sex marriage can begin as soon as November 18.

4. Tennessee

Four Tennessee same-sex couples filed a federal suit challenging the Tennessee state law that prohibits the recognition of their legal marriages from other states. Read more about this

STATES WITH CIVIL UNIONS / DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIPS

6. Utah

On October 17, the ACLU filed a friend-of-the-court brief supporting a challenge of the same-sex marriage ban in Utah.

STATES WITH SAME-SEX MARRIAGE BANS

7. Oregon

On October 15 2013, two couples filed a federal lawsuit challenging Oregon’s constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, and its refusal to recognize legal marriages from other jurisdictions.

OVERALL, AT PRESS TIME...

lawsuit on page 5.

LIVE IN 29 STATES THAT STILL BAN ALL TYPES OF UNIONS EXCEPT ONE-MANONE-WOMAN COUPLES.

•••••••••• •••••••••• •••••••••

PERCENT OF AMERICANS LIVE IN 15 STATES WITH FULL, STATE-LEVEL EQUALITY

•••••••

3. Illinois

PERCENT

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NOVEMBER 2013

LIVE IN CITIES, COUNTIES, OR STATES WITH PARTIAL EQUALITY

Answered Prayers

by Jessica Gibson

and I ance, r b m .I me story f Re y o m y a f D o n the part ender ome are. I ransg s h T s l l e e o t t ’s th e to riting nted arks I wa ked m y: “W ber m a at s t a a m w e g h r w v is h No hw dito emin t e e i r H e e w t h H ile ed t Ernes leed.” a wh onor from and b uite e q am h r t e r o t i o u r f urch ypew the q ggled nd ch the t stru bered u t o m a r e a n y d I rem t dow volve nto m end, st si lled i ife re i l u r j d s ’ u as ily you Yo , it w y fam what easy. d l M i r . h . o d d f c i e k a God ve bl . As her’s you I ha asked ligion preac e u r a what o d Y e n : v i a d e e I’m d o ec ork uld r and G th w u wo ayer d fai r o n e, I p y a d t r an of ag tha raye s d p r e a v w e e y .” I eli ho seven a girl ally b head e d o r n t n u d i o s e ed, an ill ar elong rn m want five t hat b se tu t s a a e . h l r t w p ai , fo ent f ime I “God asked the t innoc hing: o t y m l e e o n o sed t Fr erc uppo d for he fi s e t , y t l a ’ l r e n a s enc s ly p ith I wa iffer most ly, w d w t e l n n a e k v I I mic d fer rong. age. ause anato praye as w that , bec out w l b e n r t i a e a g r a th ild ow eryon , and ’t kn to be or ev to ch y n f d o d i e b g d t n a n g prayi e as age, I I wa othin was that aw m ed. N I r s t e e A w l e . e g p . ns an eop boy t una st ho o ch n hat p t o be a e t l y w d I w e bo y, rs st kn tuall r my praye I ju . Even . My ng fo i y y y l o a t b r n e a ’t p iffer an. I e as wasn me d nam aw m e e s e of h s l t . l i to me st and rance r e , e n l o y f o o else o t y b le ver as a n for the mirac ged. E uth, know w up e no e o chan b e r S g c d a l p l u p dI e Dee for e wo ot a ed, an in th Ther atred ppi, n e i h ntinu f s i o l a s i c om ith ith Miss Life ut fr ive, w ong w o t l uth a e o A v k r s . po se ent se”. up in tly s -con iffer disea grew quen ultra t e are d r s s i f o a r h r w w . le w fathe limp rided up in peop ith “ . My nd de s grew w a s , e e I d s n e limp ho ch th ueer and t ving a chur d, loa a e ” der q h t n s a t e r h g o o and “fagg were ded f evere gays riman bout menp a o e and s t r e... i w s p y l g l h n t u i c n p t k er lin e n d u e u a n b h p e q t g e d S ...and made my father uncomfortable. e fr n-an ions. was ed th y me fract ross ld, I n i i c I learned from an early age that I had to Siss h e d c t a a g Ih youn femin when keep my feelings a deep secret. I learned er ef As a w h t o n o k e t, and I had to tell her mom, the sister who had that I had to change how I naturally acted let m wris hings s a l been thrown out of our lives so many e and thought, or lose my father’s and my u g ton

family’s and church’s love. This was not an imaginary fear. When I was eight years old, my father had thrown my older sister out of the house before her senior year of high school for infractions far less severe than mine would have been. At seventeen, she was homeless, with no job, car, or money. I learned very well that disobedience had severe consequences. What I so desperately wanted could never happen. It was a matter of survival. As a result, I fashioned myself into a very macho person, and tried to bury who I knew myself to be. I played high school football. I became a laborer for a family member’s masonry crew, and eventually learned how to lay bricks and blocks. I met a girl, got married, had two kids, and bought a house. I

years earlier. I had to drive him to the Sheriff’s Office when he surrendered. worked hard for, and earned, a job as a And then, I had to live without his professional firefighter. And all along shadow in my life. And that was the the way, I tried to kill the part of me greatest gift I have ever received. I had that whispered so frequently, “you are a loved my father unreservedly, even after girl.” I tried so very hard to be the man all he had done to me and our family as everyone saw. a result of his narcissistic power trips. I’m not sure I can explain how or why. I Until one day, in my mid-twenties, grew up needing his pride and approval, my world shattered. and that never really changed. The gift he gave was to completely erase his My father, who had ruled my world legacy and the hold he had over me and and had been the model of manhood I had our family in the most dramatic and desperately emulated, confessed to me tragic way possible. that he had molested his eight year old After dealing with the mess that he granddaughter as well as being addicted left, I was finally able to begin to tackle to crystal meth. my own issues. NOVEMBER 2013

It wasn’t easy, giving myself permission to pursue my authentic self. It resulted in divorce (although it was amazingly amicable and we remain friends), therapy, leaving the fire department and relocating from south Mississippi to Nashville with no job and not knowing anyone in the area (following my ex-wife and children after she took a transfer and promotion), and moments of soul-searing depression that brought on thoughts of suicide. But in the midst of the fear, there were glimmers of hope and exhilaration as I began understand who I was. The journey wasn’t a straight line, although I suppose such things rarely are. Slowly, agonizingly slowly, my life became richer, deeper, and more meaningful. I transitioned from an uncomfortable, emotionally crippled man to a caring, honest, and authentic woman. It wasn’t easy, but it was damn sure worth it. I had a moment on the day of my name change. I had just walked out of court with the paperwork confirming my new name. As I walked on that sunny spring day, memories came quick and fast from all the things that had happened to bring me to this point. Suddenly, I found my vision getting blurry from tears as I thought about that little boy who no one knew was a girl lying in bed fiercely, innocently, praying for a miracle. As it turns out, sometimes miracles do happen. Sometimes, prayers get answered.

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Vanderbilt University Office of LGBTQI Life and the Vanderbilt Lambda Association celebrated National Coming Out Week 2013

Record breaking attendance for this year’s speaker Laverne Cox and their 19th Annual Drag Show featuring local Nashville entertainers and headliner RuPaul’s Drag Race Jujubee.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF O&AN STAFF AND VANDERBILT OFFICE OF LGBTQI LIFE

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NOVEMBER 2013

Nashville Grizzlies Fifth Annual Red Dress Rampage

Where acceptance is evident.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF O&AN STAFF

Join us

Opening Worship in our new Worship Center

SUN, November 17 / 11am NOVEMBER SUNDAY WORSHIP TIMES: Nov 3 & 10 — 8:55am, 10:15am, 11:35am Nov 17 — 11:00am (Celebrating 17 years of ministry in Nashville!) Nov 24 — 9:30am & 11:00am

6727 charlotte pike | nashville, tn 37209 615.352.3838 | HolyTrinityCommunityChurch.com NOVEMBER 2013

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Art Four Sale brings you a jazzy holiday JOSEPH BROWNELL

By the time you read this, it’s a safe bet that holiday music has infiltrated the sound systems at all your local shopping and dining establishments. Holiday albums have become staples in many artists’ catalogs and for good reason. From “Joy to the World” to “Frosty the Snowman,” many of these classics evoke holiday memories and represent a time of the year where time with our family, whether blood or created, is of the utmost importance. This year, Art Four Sale, a Nashville based Jazz quartet, joins the holiday ranks with their holiday CD Four the Holidays, available November 5. What began in 2007 with an invitation to an acoustic guitar duo to play background music while listeners enjoyed a glass of wine on the back deck of the newly opened Arrington Vineyards in Arrington, TN has evolved into a four-piece contemporary jazz group whose songs and sound still retain that familiar good-time feeling for audiences relaxing with friends

and family. Drawing from a variety of influences ranging from pop and Brazilian music to R&B and jazz, Art Four Sale’s music has been described as “fun,” “upbeat,” and “just right for setting the perfect mood.” The initial complement of two guitarists, writer/producer Paul Buono and singer/songwriter Steve Savage, along with bassist Dougie Keebler and drummer Ryan Pruitt formed the band Art Four Sale in 2009. When original member Steve Savage moved to Europe in 2011 to pursue his solo career he was replaced by multiinstrumentalist Guy Lemon, whose keyboards, drums and percussion have helped to solidify the band’s new direction toward a contemporary jazz sound. While Art Four Sale is now embarking on a national and global promotional and marketing campaign with singles from Four the Holidays, O&AN spoke with bassist Dougie Keebler about the album.

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NOVEMBER 2013

The holiday season marks not one but two upcoming releases for Art Four Sale. Let’s talk about Four the Holidays. With some many to choose from, was it tough to pick holiday songs for your first holiday collection? Paul Buono and Guy Lemon headed up the song selection process. As we mostly perform/create original music, a few gigs around the holidays last year lead us to create our own renditions of some classics. This was to kick-off in creating Four the Holidays.

Looking at the tracklisting it looks like all classics, was there any discussion of creating an original track for the album? Yes. The track “Merry Merry Christmas” is actually our original holiday tune on Four the Holidays. Does Art Four Sale have exciting holiday plans? Our performance season generally falls between March-November, so we have taken a few weeks off the past years. Obviously, this year will be different with our holiday release and getting back into working on promoting our 2014 release. Finally, you’ll also be releasing another album early next year. What can you share about that? We are in the studio writing and rehearsing now. We have several tracks already completed. Our 2014 release will actually be the fourth release of Art Four Sale. The prior releases were released locally, and the 2014 release will be the follow-up to the national radio promotion we are doing on Four the Holidays. We are excited for the doors that will open from our holiday release.

releases HOLIDAY

...more 2013

Kelly Clarkson Wrapped in Red (available now)

The original Idol has released several holiday tunes over the years including cuts on best-bud Blake Shelton’s holiday album. The singer even included her iTunes session version of “I’ll be Home for Christmas” on her 2012 Greatest Hits package. Well Ms. Clarkson (or is it now Mrs. Blackstock) finally gets her holiday wish as Wrapped in Red makes it way to shelves and stockings across the world. The album features nine classic covers and five contemporary, original tracks created with Greg Kurstin, best known for Clarkson’s mega hit “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You).”

Erasure Snow Globe (available November 11)

Produced by Erasure, Gareth Jones and Richard X, Snow Globe is a collection of original compositions and seasonal classics, and follows 2011’s album, Tomorrow’s World. The first single, “Gaudete,” is Erasure’s take on the traditional Latin carol and was released in late October. Unlike the bells and whistles, glitter and tinsel sets that crowd the market come Christmas-time, Snow Globe is possessed of something more in the wistfully, strangely subdued celebratory mould of recent seasonal albums by Tracey Thorn and Kate Bush. Erasure fans will want to snag the deluxe 3CD box set which includes a second disc of alternate versions and holiday classics not on the record itself, plus a recording of the duo’s Christmas radio show on a third disc.

Mary J. Blige A Mary Christmas (available now)

Mary J. Blige may have scrapped her Nashville show earlier this year but the queen of R&B/Soul pulls out all the stops (and guests) for her first holiday album A Mary Christmas. Jessie J, Marc Anthony, The Clark Sisters and Barbra Streisand (yes Barbra) all make guest spots on Blige’s record. The only downside to this record? While Ms. Blige slays the classics, a true holiday present would have been a holiday original. You can learn more about Art Four Sale or order Four the Holidays from their website artfoursale.com NOVEMBER 2013

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Lions, Tigers and Mammals, Oh My JOSEPH BROWNELL

If you happened into OutCentral anytime during late September and early October, you’ve probably already seen a piece or two of his work. After winning first place during the Music City Sisters’ Alphabet Art exhibit, Chasen Igleheart is back at OutCentral with more art from his Mammals collection, which is open now and concludes with a celebratory reception on December 14 from 7 – 9 p.m.. O&AN caught up with the artist to talk about his earliest artistic memories, his November/ December OutCentral show and future plans.

[

Chasen Igleheart unveils artwork at OutCentral

I highly recommend any queer identifying artists to share their perspectives in the future shows.

You’ve traveled extensively. Have the stories, let’s say fairytales or fables, in other cultures influenced your work? Yes, of course. When I was a kid I obsessed over Japanese Anime… and still kinda am. It is interesting to have a totally different cultural perspective visually portrayed all those years and see the influence the 20th century had on me. I grew up in a very rural part of Kentucky around lots of animals and horses. Everything was alive to me and when I got the chance to study in Europe, Thailand, and later Turkey and Israel, all that early personal mythology started making sense.

Looking at the handwritten note on your website, the question ‘where are the borders of my body parts’ really jumps out at me. Can you elaborate on that just a bit? When you look at a plant, it is producing oxygen while inhaling carbon dioxide. In photosynthesis, plants use the sun to produce glucose and water. The carbon dioxide that plants need for photosynthesis comes from us every time we exhale. In other words, we are all in this together; so by “where are the borders of my body” I mean all life is made and lives off the same minerals, gases, energy and substance. Life is an extension of the planet and the atmosphere/universe we are all part of. What’s next for Chasen? Where does 2014 look to be heading? I am forever painting and currently working with music in film as an extension of that story. This spring I am very excited I will be featured by Gallery One downtown as their Artist Spotlight. View Mammal at OutCentral through December 14 and then catch Igleheart’s opening as a featured artist for the First Saturday Downtown Art Crawl in 2014. Igleheart’s works will be available exclusively at Gallery One from March through May 2014.

You submitted two pieces of work to this year’s Music City Sister’s Alphabet Art. Was this your first year? No, I also had the pleasure of showing in last year’s Alphabet Art show. It is always a great opportunity and I am so grateful for the alternative curating of the show every year. I highly recommend any queer identifying artists to share their perspectives in the future shows.

one of the year’s Very

“

best Pictures! ” scott mantz, access hollywood

matthew mcconaughey has found the

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role of his career! What he does here is transformative. Jared leto is flat-out perfect. Jennifer garner is a radiant actress of rare spirit and sensitivity. Deeply moving. A livewire of a movie.” Peter traVers, rolling stone

What was your earliest artistic memory? Drawing insects from life on fax paper in the back of my grandfather’s pickup truck. I was maybe 6 or 7 years old.

And you won, correct? Yes, I won first place in The Alphabet Art Juried Show! I am so honored by both OutCentral and The Music City Sisters for the opportunity. The piece that won first place is very dear to me and holds a silent but strong power. I am so pumped others experienced it too.

Do you, as the artist, hope that the work will spark conversation or dialogue? And if so, then what? Yes, always. One reason I am so So for someone who has never excited to show at OutCentral is due in part experienced your art before, or any art, by the great community the space offers. It how would you sell it? really is every walk of life and intelligent My work is a story and I use different outreach with a beautiful cause. I hope mediums to illustrate that story. I am my work will only add to the already forever a drawer which led to painting established conversation there on what it then to installation and film and so on, like means to be a human being in 2013, as time. The images I depict become totems well as living in a diverse community. This and metaphors for growing up in the show is titled Mammal in hopes to relate South and experiencing my travels abroad all human beings to one another without during college. If art was a science, I the weight of gender, origin, race, sex, or would be a scientist. attachments.

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NOVEMBER 2013

Jared leto is

“

flat-out amazing! ” alynda wheat, PeoPle

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“‘

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Tennesseans to be thankful for

JOSEPH BROWNELL

“Freedom from Want” is part of a series of four Norman Rockwell paintings. These paintings were inspired by Four Freedoms, the powerful State of the Union address FDR delivered to Congress a mere 12 months before the United States declared war on Japan. The painting captures a careful reflection of family in 1943; it defines the tricky word tradition. But the world is changing. 1943 is not 2013. We were going to war in 1943. We are at war in 2013. And if you’ve seen the news lately as New Jersey became the 14th state supporting marriage equality (and Hawaii possibly the 15th as you read this), we’re winning. Our victories are outshining our losses. Family and tradition are ever

evolving. For some, like Suzy Wong, their family is right by their side as they place in the top ten of Miss Gay America 2014 in St Louis. They help celebrate your victories and are there when things don’t quite go your way. For others, like Jonathan Allen, the Tennessee native whose America’s Got Talent audition video and accompanying story went viral this summer, their family ends up not accepting their children’s sexuality. No matter where you fall on the spectrum of family, we all build support systems, whether they are a blood, forged friendships or a combination of both, that help us navigate our varying identities. It’s these extended families that have helped

propel the Tennessee LGBT community. Every day there are hundreds of volunteers and activists advancing equality in Tennessee. They start internet petitions to help stand up for bullied kids. They field phone calls and emails investigating work-related discrimination. They work tirelessly to help fund HIV services for more than 24,300 LGBT individuals in Middle Tennessee. They lobby locally and nationally to advance trans*rights. They build relationships with other organizations and allies. They demand equality. And not just marriage equality, because we know there are many more denied rights that harm the Tennessee LGBT community. For those efforts, and the many more by those individuals, tirelessly giving themselves to educating, fostering and laying the building blocks of equality, O&AN is thankful. We celebrate those advancing equality and advocating for our many communities.

3 1 6

It’s been 70 years since Rockwell unveiled “Freedom from Want.” But the notion remains the same. Be thankful for those around you. For the family we build. And love those who don’t love us yet. One day we will know freedom from want.

SAVE THE DATE avant garde

masquerade

02.08.14 NashvilleCARES.org

American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell

featuring over 40 paintings and a selection of drawings, tear-sheets, and other related works, including original Saturday Evening Post covers, opens at The Frist Center for Visual Arts on November 1. The exhibit traces the evolution of Rockwell’s art and iconography throughout his career—from carefully choreographed reflections on childhood innocence to consciousness-raising images documenting the traumatic realities of desegregation in the South.

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NOVEMBER 2013

A BENEFIT FOR

5 7 8

2.CHRIS SANDERS

1.MARCEL NEERGAARD

“I’m thankful for the amazing summer I had and every person I got to know. I’m thrilled my school is a supportive place for me and my friends and that the community is making progress in being more accepting. But most of all I’m thankful for being able to come home every day and give my cat, Moonpaw, a big hug.” That’s what Marcel Neergaard is thankful for in 2013. In 2013, O&AN and students across Tennessee are thankful for when early this summer Marcel Neergaard took a stand against StudentsFirst’s former Educational Reformer of the Year, John Ragan when he sponsored the Tennessee House version of the Classroom Protection Act aka “Don’t Say Gay Bill.”

3.WILL PEYTON & JEF LAUDIERI

On August 7, Will Peyton and Jef Laudieri were just one of many couples across the state of Tennessee that made their way to local county clerk offices to apply for marriage licenses. Admittedly knowing they would be turned away, Peyton and Laudieri spoke out against their “serious economic disadvantage” by being denied the right to legally marry. Other couples included two Memphisarea couples Amy Barton and Lyndsay Gray and Chris Snow and Aaron Thompson as well as Wilson County couple Stephanie Shelton and Lisa Cross. These four couples were joined by East Tennessee couple Lindsey Wagoner and Megan Smith in mid-August, who’ve gone on to start the TN Marriage Equality Facebook page.

Chris Sanders has spent the last decade as one of the Tennessee Equality Project’s (TEP) driving forces. This year, TEP worked tirelessly advocating their Same Work, Same Benefits program working behind the scenes to educate and facilitate discussions surrounding benefits for same-sex couples within government and well as helping identifying potential plaintiffs for the various court battles gearing up in our state. TEP also celebrated a new step in their work late this summer when they announced Sanders would be stepping into the full-time Executive Director position for TEP.

4.PAM SIMMONS

Whether it’s her work extensive volunteer work with Nashville CARES or a night out on the town with Music City Sisters, Pam Simmons is an inspirational angel beaming at events across the Tennessee LGBT community. Simmons’ presence at Upper Cumberland Pride, the O&AN/GLSEN Middle Tennessee Ally Photo Shoot or the Nashville AIDS Walk, are just a few ways this Nashville savior brightens the community through her tireless volunteer work and support.

5.KAT COOPER

This Collegedale, TN police detective made headlines this year when her efforts to obtain benefits for her wife (they were married in Maryland) resulted in Collegedale becoming the first Tennessee city to recognize equal benefits for same-sex couples. Cooper has continued being active and vocal. She was recently announced as co-chair of the TEP Hamilton-Bradley Counties Committee, spoke at Tennessee Valley Pride and continues to use her social media to raise awareness for equality in Tennessee.

6.ANDY BERKE & MADELINE ROGERO Andy Berke and Madeline Rogero serve as the mayors of Chattanooga and Knoxville respectively. These Tennessee mayors are taking the lead on securing benefits for their cities’ LGBT workers and their partners. Both Berke and Rogero were on hand in Nashville in late September to help celebrate the 2013 victories of TEP at their second annual Olympus event and show their support for equality. While Berke is actively engaged in how to make that a reality in his city, Rogero announced by executive order in October that LGBT Knoxville city employees would begin to receive same-sex partner benefits in January. As the community continues to fight for more than just marriage equality, these allies are instrumental in the changes to come to Tennessee. Artwork Credit: Diane Burrows/Art Excellentz

7.DR. MARISA RICHMOND

Dr. Marisa Richmond’s unparalleled effects on trans* legislation nationally and regionally are numerous. The former president of Tennessee’s oldest equality organization, the Tennessee Transgender Political Coalition (TTPC), helped the organization celebrate their annual dinner in October with a keynote address from State Representative Sherry Jones (D-Nashville), and continues to lobby in favor of a fully inclusive ENDA. Richmond was honored by OutCentral during their Autumn Honors and TTPC will be on hand at this year’s Trans* Day of Remembrance celebration at Vanderbilt University November 20th.

8.PATRICK HAMILTON Named the new Chief Development Officer for Nashville CARES earlier this year, Patrick Hamilton hit the ground running with extensive efforts at raising funds for Middle Tennessee’s most active HIV/AIDS organization. When he’s not on the softball fields, Hamilton is integral in organizing events like this year’s successful Nashville AIDS Walk (raising more than $230,000 thus far) and their February 8 masquerade event, Avantgarde. Save the date! NOVEMBER 2013

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Charli XCX is ready to show Nashville her ‘SuperLove’ Electro-pop performer plays Mercy Lounge November 18 After her dynamic Bonnaroo debut this summer, Nashville fans have been waiting for Charli XCX to bring her high energy, electro-pop tunes to Music City. After postponing an earlier Nashville date, Charli XCX made up for it by releasing the catchy new single “SuperLove” and of course by rescheduling her Mercy Lounge date for November 18. We had the chance to catch up with Charli XCX and talk her massive co-write and feature “I Love It,” the direction for her new music and what Nashville fans should expect.

Speaking of “Superlove,” I’ve read about the frenetic filming for the video in Japan? What was the experience like for you? Amazing. I’d never been to Japan before I shot “SuperLove” but I knew I was going to have this connection with Tokyo. Everything was so overwhelming, no one really spoke English, everything’s like it’s from the future. It’s trippy. The police came and shut down the shoot as well as we were shooting with a biker gang. That was kinda cool.

It took a long time for you to put together True Romance and you’ve Your first show in Nashville was said you’ve… “written a pop record postponed but you did release the from the heart, and when people hear fantastically catchy “SuperLove.” Is it I hope they want to dance and cry there new music coming? at the same time.” Where are you Yes. I’ve been recording a lot coming from on this next album? lately. I’m writing for the second album. What’s your inspiration? The music I’m making right now is the I’m inspired by French YeYe best I’ve ever made. It’s much more pop. By the iconic 60’s. By femininity raw and organic than things I’ve done and sex. Also by new wave bands like before. Everything is inspired by sex, The Waitresses and Bow Wow Wow. anger and passion. I’m getting really inspired by Robert

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NOVEMBER 2013

“

JOSEPH BROWNELL

The police came and shut down the shoot...

Palmer’s “Addicted to Love” video right now, too. And the movie Ladies And Gentlemen, The Fabulous Stains. One of my favorite tracks to dance to on True Romance is “Take Me Hand.” How much do you like a good party? Ummm. A lot! On the crying tip, “Set Me Free,” which you’ve said was written when you were 15, is a poignantly produced pop song. Are there any powerhouse ballads in line for the new record? There aren’t any ballads just yet. It’s more like, raw. But it’s the early stages so who knows—it might end up being super emo. I think the fact that there is so much emotion masked within danceable beats (hence truly being able to cry and dance) on your record has made it a hit with gay/LGBT fans? When did you first notice a gay fanbase? I first began to notice a gay fan base when I was younger. I guess because I began playing in these club kid raves in East London, I was hanging out with a gay, fashion kind of crowd from quite early on. So I suppose I began to build a gay following from the start. Whenever I play in the states I always notice there

are loads of young gay kids at my shows going crazy. That is so killer. Everyone there is partying. I like that at my own shows. I like to feel the sweat! You killed it at Bonnaroo this year. I was only able to make it one day and it was yours. It was amazing to hear the whole crowd singing Backstreet Boys “I Want It That Way” with you? What is it about that song that made you want to cover it and what about that song makes everybody sing along? It’s a pop classic. That’s why everyone knows it and that’s why I covered it. It wasn’t to be ironic or anything. It’s genuinely an amazing song. It’s so deep and romantic. It feels really 80’s. It’s very powerful and the melodies are amazing. It’s coop gold. You had an incredible hit cowriting and being featured on Icona Pop’s “I Love It.” How has the response been to that song for you? Has there been pressure for you to pen another uber hit like that? Yes (laughs). Ever since that

song, I’ve been asked to be in sessions for other artists and all the label people are like “we want the next ‘I Love It’” and “Write something like ‘I Love It.’” It’s so funny because that will never happen. I’ll never write a song like “I Love It” for anyone else. It was just such a moment. It wasn’t crafted. It kind of just came out of me in a half an hour in the bedroom of a crappy hotel in Stockholm. I wasn’t planning anything, I wasn’t thinking ahead, it just happened. I don’t follow formulas when I write- I can’t reconstruct “I Love It.” It was just there in front of me. I know I can write... But I won’t just replicate the same thing for any artist who wants me to write for them. What’s the point of that? I’d like to create something individual and personal and amazing for each different artist I work with, not just something that follows the rules of another song. Finally, what should Nashville fans expect for the November show? Energy. Magic. Girl power. Charli XCX will play Mercy Lounge on November 18; doors at 8 p.m. and show at 9 p.m.. Tickets are $12 in advance and can be purchased online mercylounge.com

NOVEMBER 2013

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COMING IN 2014! For more details, stay tuned to our website.

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NOVEMBER 2013

A conversation between allies

Go behind the art of Margaret Ellis and Hollis Hollywood HOLLIS HOLLYWOOD

Labels can feel heavy. And for me “ally” is one of those. What does that exactly mean? In some ways it makes me feel like an outside supporter of the community to which I belong. Admittedly I am a heterosexual female, yet I identify with LGBTQI culture for more important reasons than whom I prefer in my bed. In the chosen family I have been lucky to find I am one of many who have been ostracized for living my life in a way some people I wish loved me do not understand. And I have discovered the power of a tribe of brothers and sisters who share my interests, sense of humor, and need to live out my truth. As a writer and a woman and a human being just doing my thing, I’ve been called a “fag hag,” a “tranny chaser,” and a “breeder.” I love words and believe they only carry the energy we allow them to, so those names don’t really bother me. But I don’t enjoy being questioned about my intentions or my sexuality by people in the community as though I am an interloper who does not belong. What is the point of all of these letters we keep adding on to the definition LGBT culture if not inclusiveness? Can I not fight this skirmish for equality from the inside? Aren’t acceptance and understanding all any of us are looking for? Meeting Margaret Ellis was enlightening to me. Like me she is a straight female artist who found inspiration, deep friendships, and a sense of belonging when she stumbled into the world of drag queens and Nashville gay nightlife. It happened for both of us when we needed to remember we were fabulous, and were ready to insist upon being loved for being ourselves. Margaret and I are both visual artists. Her medium is photography, and I am a making a film. We are equally fascinated by gender and sexuality and community and the nature of love, and that’s what propels our work. You can call me an ally and I am proud to own that. I’m sure Margaret will carry that mantle too. But to the people in our chosen families we are both just Holly and Margaret, and there’s nothing heavy about that at all.

Hollis Hollywood: Why don’t you start by telling me about your latest inspiration for the gorgeous photos of performers you’ve been taking?

Margaret Ellis: I have been doing some art photos of what I would describe as “gender shifts.” A person having a relationship with their masculine and feminine sides. I met an amazingly beautiful young man, Dylan Stephens, who was modeling as a female at Nashville Fashion Week and photographed him many times early this summer. Androgyny fascinates me and I enjoy exploring the aesthetics of it. I did a similar series of photos with my friend, Andrew Pentecost, who loves to express his drag persona, Angel Electra. My next series will feature a female model. I also recently did a portrait of DeeDee Renner (performance artist Deception), who is recovering from chemo, and wanted a picture while she was still bald. I love that picture. PHOTO COURTESY OF OVVIO ARTE

Hollis Hollywood: I saw those you posted of DeeDee and her mom online, which are beautiful. Your photographs tell stories and pose questions, and it’s the individual stories of people in the community that draw me in as an artist as well. Looking at what outwardly seems like differences, whether it’s gender or sexuality or a belief system or whatever, and finding the human sameness underneath. Margaret Ellis: I love the idea of people being so fluid in their identities. I think that’s why I find drag so fascinating. I love makeup and

the effect it has on people. The change that takes place on stage when someone impersonates another gender is different from the change that happens when someone becomes another gender. Both fascinate me. I enjoy taking photos of drag queens more than any other subject matter. I am humbled and honored to be allowed into that world. Hollis Hollywood: I agree and am also intrigued by the idea of chosen identity in ways other than sexuality or gender. It is connected to the concept of chosen families or communities and cont’d on page 22

NOVEMBER 2013

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NOVEMBER 2013

something you and I have both talked about discovering personally as we became involved as straight women in the gay community. Margaret Ellis: It is interesting that you bring up the subject of family. Last night at the Miss Gay TN America pageant I was distinguished as a “Lifetime Member of the Miss Gay Tennessee Family.” In 1972 when I went to the first Miss Gay America pageant, I was suddenly embraced and accepted at a time when my life when I was lonelier than I had ever been. I don’t know how I would have gotten through that time without my friends in the gay community, who were definitely my family. So, to receive than award last night for what I do for the community brought it all back full circle. It meant the world to me. Hollis Hollywood: One of the key elements of my documentary is how the AIDS epidemic in its earliest days of fear and the unknown were both devastating and transformational in the way the community banded together to get attention and answers and care. I was in high school when I remember reading an article in the Village Voice about the “gay cancer” or “gay plague” that was menacing otherwise healthy young men. How did that time affect you and your friends? Margaret Ellis: Now we see that I am quite a bit older than you are, Hollis. I was about 35 and a regular reader of the Village Voice, which was mailed to my home in Nashville. That is how I first heard of it. I remember so well the first time I learned that someone I knew was affected. It was 1985. By the time I was in my early ‘40’s, my friends were starting to become ill. I lost several friends to this horrible disease. It was just heartbreaking, as at that time there was

no cure, and no drugs to slow down the disease. It was a death sentence, and a slow, slow one at that. We were watching men who were young and vital become like 90 years olds before our eyes. I still think of them. It concerns me that the young people of today, who have never really seen what this disease looks like, might be careless. Hollis Hollywood: I had a Village Voice subscription too, and it was the same 1985 article I read when I was a sixteen and had discovered the underground music scene in Nashville. It was parallel but also crossed over some with the gay nightclub scene, and had the same kind of outrageousness and promiscuity and drugs going on. The Warehouse 28 was the place I danced with my friends on Friday nights, then The Cabaret became our spot for seeing drag shows. It is interesting as I research that time to understand how AIDS prevention was

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARGARET ELLIS

addressed and marketed differently to the gay and straight communities and how ineffective in general the efforts were to change public habits. I too know kids who are careless today, and too many who are HIV positive at incredibly young ages. It’s a large part of what drives my need to be an ally or speak out by telling the stories of the history of the early days of the crisis in Nashville, with the faces of the people who were loved and lost, and also those who rallied the troops and got some shit done. I interviewed The Lady Bunny for this paper and she bemoaned the lack of activism in the young people of the greater LGBT community. There is a sense I get from the Stonewall Generation that they feel unappreciated and undervalued for the sacrifices they made, the losses they endured, and the incredible strides towards awareness, acceptance and equality they achieved.

Margaret Ellis: I feel the same way about young women who take their liberties for granted. Activism is necessary until all equality is achieved. And necessary to keep the rights that are won. Look at what’s happened to Roe vs Wade, for example. Or how a state can grant marriage rights, then take them away. Proposition 8’s defeat is an example of how activism can work. I have marched for the original Civil Rights (racial equality), for women’s rights, and against the wars in Vietnam and Iraq. I am now involved in what has been called the “last great civil rights struggle of ...

NOVEMBER 2013

“

last great civil rights struggle of our lifetime...

“

A conversation between allies cont’d from page 23

our lifetime,” the movement for equal rights for LGBT citizens. It is urgently important that those of us who believe that no one is free unless everyone is free take part in this movement. While I would be defined as an ally to this community, I don’t think of myself as someone on the outside looking in. I think being “gay” is about a lot more than whom you sleep with. Hollis Hollywood: I love that you brought up the topic of being called an “ally” in the gay community. It makes me feel uncomfortable to wear that label, as if I am some kind of helper from the “outside.” I have loving relationships in my life that involve all kinds of people and I’m about equality, period. This isn’t some kind of charitable cause I’ve taken up, it is an expression of what is important and of value in my life. I could not care less what anyone else is doing in their bedroom, and what I’m doing there is none of your goddamn business. But if wearing that label makes people pay attention to the things we still need to change, then I’m ok with that. Margaret Ellis: You rock, Ms. Hollywood. Hollis Hollywood: Ditto, Ms. Ellis! You are totally my hero and I love you for doing this!

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Jonathan Allen sings on

Catch up with Tennessee native from ‘America’s Got Talent’ JOSEPH BROWNELL

Jonathan Allen charmed millions when he auditioned for America’s Got Talent this summer. The small town Tennessee native showcased some serious operatic chops and shortly after the show aired, his audition video went viral with nearly five million views.

Have you always been aware of how extremely talented you are? I have always felt that I had some talent – and always received positive feedback from others. I just never thought that people would be as receptive to it as they have been, and that’s been a great feeling.

HO! Although Allen’s voice secured him a spot in the Top 60, it was his backstory that drove people to share his audition video across social media platforms. During his audition, Allen revealed that his parents had kicked him out of their house at 18 for being gay. Although Allen was eliminated during the semifinals in late August, the singer is pursuing his dreams and using his voice to make a difference. We caught up with Allen to see what life has in store for the singer. Can you talk a little bit about what drove you to audition for America’s Got Talent? Honestly, my partner. He was and is my greatest supporter. Once he realized AGT auditions were coming he made sure that we were there, and the rest is history! What was the initial audition experience like? It was nerve racking. There were so many great and talented people auditioning and you just wonder how you’re going to stack up against these amazing acts. Fortunately I held my own. In subsequent weeks, were the nerves still as big or did they subside? I tried to take each day as it came, but the nerves never subsided. I would say that nerves were at their peak right before my first performance at Radio City Music Hall. That is such an awesome theater with so much history and it had always been a goal of mine to play there. So truthfully, it was a dream come true but a nerve racking experience.

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Your story was heartbreaking but has hopefully helped others in your position, being from Tennessee do you have any advice for someone who might find themselves in a similar position? The best thing that I can say is be true to yourself, love even when you feel you are not, and give thanks for life—it’s a great gift. cont’d on page 28

HO!

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NOVEMBER 2013

Meet Tyrah Hunter

She dazzled viewers in her evening gown, a shimmering red number of her Tyrah Hunter has it - the power own creation that clung elegantly to her to grab your attention and not let go. figure, topped by dramatic sweeping hair With her slender frame and impossibly announcing that she’d arrived. Graceful beautiful eyes, she is not simply and exotic, she embodied sophistication. masquerading as a female, she channels In the Q&A section, Tyrah was an energy that transcends definition. asked if she’d recommend any changes Radiating cool confidence, she captivates to the pageant system. She answered her audience using a finely-tuned boldly. It had already improved, she said, sense of style and moves that few can because she was in it. follow. Flanked by a skilled group of Tyrah explained. “My answer was dancers who surround her like rippling looked at as cocky and some said it waves, moving fluidly into a precise, seemed like I was bashing the other synchronized routine, Tyrah is one of girls and performers. That’s not the case. the most memorable personalities in the The system is different because I have pageant world. become a part of it. That’s just how I For the Miss Gay Tennessee America feel.” pageant in September at Nashville’s Play Others found her answer appealing; Dance Bar, Tyrah turned up the voltage a sign of confidence made more to a heart-stopping level. She created a courageous by the surroundings. Statue of Liberty look with silvery skin Amid formidable competition, Tyrah and hair, giving the appearance of metal. Hunter had set herself apart, and would When a tall, lovely competitor turned do so even more dramatically in the up in a similarly-themed costume, Tyrah performance portion of the event. Hunter was not fazed. cont’d on page 28

NOVEMBER 2013

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KATY PARSON

R.J. BURROW

Tyrah Hunter dazzles at this year’s Ms. Nashville Pride pageant.

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Meet Tyrah Hunter cont’d from page 27

couture, which is who I am.” Intelligent resourcefulness has fueled Her performance set to Beyoncé’s “Sweet her success. Tyrah’s amazing maquillage Dreams” was riveting. The dancers wore techniques weren’t gained during her incredible face paint by good friend and tenure at MAC. She brought them to the former MAC coworker, Rhanda Heath. job, “learning over time.” She also taught Their hair was styled by Kyle Kressin of herself clothing design, creating couture Studio BBC Salon. The routine blended an with emphasis on modern female attire. amazing combination of Anthony Thomas- What’s in the collection? “Tons!” said inspired movements with balletic elements, Tyrah. She acquired this skill because highlighting one of Tyrah’s strongest it was hard to find things she liked that assets. She can DANCE. Her silvery form fit. “Also, also I like having control over was a vortex of sinuous movement amid what I wear. When I want something, her five blue-garbed dancers, all executing I just make it.” Her favorite fashion a complicated series of steps designed to designer? “Myself!” astonish. With every performance, Tyrah Tyrah’s impressive choreography kicks it up a notch and this was one of is the product of innate skill rather than her best. In that moment, she went from formal training. Her magnetic dance elegant to phenomenal. routines emphasize grace, quickness and When the dust settled, Tyrah Hunter coordination, as backup dancers echo her was the new Miss Gay Tennessee America movements in unison. She emulates Janet First Alternate, bound for the national Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation” so well that MGA competition in St. Louis along with you wonder if the Jacksons aren’t missing Miss Gay Tennessee Venus Knight and a sibling. Miss Mid America 2013 Suzy Wong. Tyrah admires her drag mother, This magical being didn’t appear out Danielle Hunter and Armani. Her titles of thin air. Tyrah’s friends nicknamed her have included Miss Sunshine State 2006, after supermodel Tyra Banks, and forced Miss Gay Nashville America, Miss Gay her to try drag at age 19. “I never wanted to Memphis America First Alternate, Miss do it, but my friends made me,” said Tyrah. Gay Tennessee America First Alternate, “I kept telling them no for the longest, and Miss Gay Tennessee America 2012 they kept saying that I would be good… so Second Alternate, and Miss Gay Pride I finally agreed to try it and it worked!” Second Alternate. Tyrah Hunter began her ascent in If she appeared on TV, it would be 2006 at a state pageant in Florida. At Miss in “a reality show where they follow Sunshine State, she won in every category me around from day to day.” One against eight contestants. She said of the imagines the inventive Tyrah rifling outcome, “It changed my life.” through bolts at Jo-Ann Fabrics, racing “I’m a very competitive person, so I around Performance Studios, rehearsing was drawn to the pageant world. You have energetically and fielding questions about to be very polished to be successful, “said her astonishing eyelashes. “My lashes are Tyrah. Self-described as “passionate,” always like that,” she teased when asked. her focused creativity comes with an At her benefit show, Tyrah independent streak. She controls every captivated in a black floppy hat, blonde aspect of her presentation, doing her own bangs, glittery corset and four-inch choreography, wardrobe, makeup and hair. heels, performing to Janet Jackson’s “I “I’m open to others’ input,” she said. “I Get So Lonely.” She also paid tribute already know my vision. It has come from to the elegant Whitney Houston in a the whole Tyra Banks persona: runway, breathtaking self-made gown coated in model, high fashion, tall, lean, sequins. Sleek and sophisticated, Tyrah

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NOVEMBER 2013

nailed it. In early October, Tyrah Hunter burned down the stage at the Miss Gay America 2014 pageant. She pranced across it in her sexy couture gowns, spoke with perfect enunciation in a debonair suit and showed her panache during the talent categories. Her inimitable wardrobe included a greenstriped zoot suit ensemble with a black corset and wide-brimmed hat, a headturning red gown with a deep v in back and dramatic architectural shoulders, a curvaceous white sheath confection with whipped cream on top, and a silhouettehugging golden gown absolutely dripping with crystals. Most of the above collection was created by Tyrah herself, ensuring that nobody would approach her level of sophisticated self-assurance. Surprisingly, she didn’t make Top 10, but hindrances only fuel Tyrah’s ambition. After receiving the news, she posed for a photo looking more splendid than ever, her engaging self-assurance unaffected. Tyrah Hunter’s exceptional ability to focus ensures her success in all that she does, and her admirers will always have her back.

eliminated, did you have any performances planned that you would have liked to have gotten to on the show? I would have loved to have been able to sing “The Prayer” with Celine Dion. It is one of my favorite classical pop duets. And to be able to sing it with one of my favorite singers. It would have been beyond epic for me. Since elimination, what’s next for Jonathan Allen? This experience has opened so many doors! I have had the chance to do a benefit for GLEH (Gay & Lesbian Elder Housing) in Los Angeles, one of the only places as of now, exclusively servicing the senior LGBT community with low cost housing. I will be working with the Trevor Project, a great national organization helping those gay and questioning youth across the nation with crisis intervention and suicide prevention via toll free hot lines. Also I will be going into the studio soon to record some of my favorite songs, and I’m looking forward to tour dates and performing at PRIDE festivals across the nation. Life is good.

Where do you see yourself in five years? Hopefully touring. I feel most Can you talk a little bit about growing comfortable when I’m on stage. I would also hope that affords me the opportunity up gay in Tennessee? It was a little difficult. I was always to meet and connect with new and trying to fit in with the typical traditional wonderful people that have a positive effect on my life and vice versa. family values. I knew that I didn’t have the same beliefs so it was very Are there any performers’ careers you conflicting. would like to emulate or inspire you? My biggest inspiration is Pavarotti. Have you had contact with your But I am inspired by any artist that stays parents since the show? true to who they are, doing what they Unfortunately I have not, but I love to do, and having fun while have had contact with other family and doing it! received positive feedback from them. So that in itself is great. Follow Jonathan Allen on Twitter @allen_operaboy Since you were unfortunately Jonathan Allen sings oncont’d from page 26

NOVEMBER 2013

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Margaret Ellis recaps an eventful MGA weekend The MGA pageant tends toward traditional representations of what it What’s it like to spend a week with 52 is to be female, while there are many female impersonators who have devoted contemporary queens who perform in the last several months of their lives to a less gender-defined, more free-form doing everything possible to win the title milieu. There was an interesting blend of Miss Gay America (MGA), 2014? of the two at this pageant. Suzy’s Let’s just say that from October 8-14 the makeup artist was Raja Gemini, a Millennium Hotel in St. Louis was like winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, and being on a big gay cruise ship. as far from a “pageant queen” as one The Miss Gay America Pageant was can be. On the other hand, one of the started in 1972 by Jerry Peek, the owner former MGA winners, CoCo Montrese, of the Watch Your Hat and Coat Saloon, was also a contestant on RuPaul’s, truly the first gay dance club in Nashville. blending the traditional with the This pageant has a longer history than avant garde. any female impersonation pageant in A frequent question about female the country. impersonators is, “Do you think they If you are a connoisseur of this art really want to be women?” A few, you realize that it takes many forms. maybe. Mostly I think they are like While some queens select a well-known male birds. They just want to be flashy woman and impersonate her very peacocks, and explore another way to closely—think Dolly Parton, Cher, Liza be perceived. Minelli, or Judy Garland—others create There were competitors in St. Louis a woman in their own imagination and from all over the country. The way this develop her as a character. Suzy Wong pageant system is organized makes it is an example of this kind of fantasy possible to compete for years, and many alter-ego. competitors just keep coming back MARGARET ELLIS

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Margaret Ellis recaps cont’d from page 31

of course, the pressure was still on, and building. Sunday evening was the big event, and the program started with the again and again, hoping each time to take presentation of all the candidates onstage, home the crown. The week of the pageant for the announcement of the Top Ten. I becomes the focal point of must confess that I was totally gripped by their year. the drama. Suzy’s goal for this week had The competition covers five been to make the Top Ten. I didn’t see categories: Male Interview, Solo Talent, how her performances could have been Long Talent (which can include elaborate better, but I also knew I was prejudiced. props and backup dancers), Evening So many of the contestants had done Gown, and Question and Answer. In this a great job. The amount of effort, sense it resembles the “real girl” Miss discipline, and sheer talent was amazing. America Pageant. I was holding my breath as the The standards are quite high, and names were called. When I heard each category is judged on a point Suzy’s name I actually cried, I was so system. Since there were 52 competitors, relieved and happy. Once again, these in order for each of them to have the time ten performed their talent, and did the to do all the events, the evenings started Questions and Answers in evening gown. at 8 p.m. and were usually over around At the conclusion, Jessica Jade, Miss 2:30 a.m.. So, on Wednesday, Thursday, East Coast, became Miss Gay America and Friday nights, the preliminary 2014. I went on stage to do all the official competitions took place. During the pageant photos, and then at 2:30 a.m. days, there were rehearsals, sound shot the first official portrait of Queen checks, and meetings. Of course, with 52 people performing, there were bound to be some duplications of icons and iconic songs—Tina Turner and Liza Minelli showed up on stage more than once. All the mistresses of ceremony were former title holders, who also took turns performing at intervals during the evenings. The reigning Miss Gay America, Sally Sparkles, did a great job as the centerpiece of the week. A high point of the pageant was an intricate number that she choreographed to introduce the competitors on Sunday night. On Saturday night, the competitors got a night off, to be entertained by Miss Wong of Bollywood performances by the former winners. But,

Jessica. I know that there are people like me, who simply love “drag” and get it, and there are people who don’t get it at all. The fact is, no matter how you feel about it, you couldn’t watch the spectacle of this pageant without respecting the performers. I thoroughly enjoyed the fact that Suzy’s parents, Patti and Win Myint, came along on the trip. The Myints are the most wonderful parents a queen could have. They were like two kids on a honeymoon, attending all the shows, cheering for Suzy, and having fun. Suzy’s dad even had a favorite: a buxom

blonde serving Vogue Madonna. One of the things that touched my heart was how many of the contestants’ parents were in the audience. Just like the Myints, they were proud of their sons, and there to be supportive. Margaret Ellis was introduced to female impersonation when she attended the first MGA pageant in 1972, and has been a fan ever since. She is a friend to the LGBT community, and an activist for equality. She shares her thoughts on her blog, www.margaretellisaroundthehouse. com

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