Ruben Gallego Has Beaten Kari Lake in AZ
In a closely watched race, Democratic Representative Ruben Gallego defeated Republican Kari Lake for Arizona’s U.S. Senate seat in 2024. Gallego, a Marine Corps veteran and long-serving congressman, garnered a strong base by focusing on issues like veterans’ affairs, healthcare, and economic opportunities. His win keeps the Senate seat in Democratic hands following Kyrsten Sinema’s term as an independent after switching from the Democratic Party and choosing not to seek re-election.
Lake, a former TV anchor and ardent supporter of Donald Trump, was popular in conservative circles for her election denial rhetoric, especially after her loss in the 2022 Arizona gubernatorial race. However, she struggled to expand her support beyond the MAGA base, as some Arizona voters were turned off by her polarizing style and her focus on past election results. Lake also received limited
support from major Republican donors and political action committees, which may have impacted her campaign’s outreach efforts
The race tightened as late ballots were counted, with Maricopa County—a key area in Arizona elections—releasing batches of votes that widened Gallego’s lead. By securing significant margins in these populous areas, Gallego ultimately
outpaced Lake by a notable margin.. This win signifies a broader trend in Arizona’s political landscape, where the state has gradually shifted from reliably red to a more competitive battleground. The outcome also highlights Arizona’s critical role in the balance of power in Congress, as Democrats hold both of the state’s Senate seats following Gallego’s victory. Resources: Phoenix New Times and KTAR.com.
Delaware Elects Openly Transgender Person to Congress
Sarah McBride made history as the first openly transgender person elected to Congress, representing Delaware. Known for her dedication to public service and LGBTQ+ advocacy, McBride came out as transgender while serving as student body president at American University, a move that quickly brought her into the national spotlight.
Before her congressional win, McBride was the first openly transgender state senator in the U.S., serving Delaware’s 1st Senate District since 2020. In the state legislature, she championed key issues like healthcare, paid family leave, and LGBTQ+ rights. Her efforts helped secure major legislative wins, including Delaware’s paid family leave law.
McBride’s election to Congress is a groundbreaking moment for visibility and inclusivity, as her presence brings critical representation for transgender Americans. She has emphasized that her work focuses on broader issues, advocating for all Delawareans and signaling a more inclusive future in U.S. politics.
The List
Trump’s First Term Was Bad for Trans People. His Next Term Promises to Be Worse
by Lewis Raven Wallace , TRUTHOUT
Donald J. Trump’s successful 2024 campaign for president prominently featured ads that declared: “Kamala is for they/ them. President Trump is for you.” The campaign spent an unprecedented amount of money on commercials specifically targeting trans and nonbinary people, particularly trans women, and Trump himself has denigrated trans advocacy and visibility, claiming it will come to an end when he returns to the presidency. pronouns, and encourage parents to police how gender is taught in schools and whether trans youth are allowed to use the restrooms and locker rooms that align with their identities. These anti-trans education laws, already active in over half of U.S. states, are facing legal challenges which are bound to continue if the U.S. government passes a similar federal law.
During his first campaign in 2016, Trump appeared relatively unconcerned about issues related to trans people and trans rights. While racism and sexism had been core to his career and image, anti-LGBTQ sentiments had not — he tended toward the northeastern socially liberal sensibilities held even by many conservatives in places like New York City.
Yet, in his first term as president, Trump pursued policies that limited trans people’s access to health care, restricted trans people’s protections from discrimination in jobs and housing, and banned trans people from the military.
The development of Trump’s anti-trans sensibilities from 2016 to the present reflects the growing alliance between Trump and socially conservative activist groups like the Alliance Defending Freedom, the Family
2. Trump’s Policies Will Target Trans Women and Girls in Sports
Trump’s platform, which he refers to as “Agenda 47,” names “keep[ing] men out of women’s sports” as one of his 20 priorities for his next administration.
Trans people may be restricted not just from accessing trans-specific care in many cases, but also potentially from accessing any care.
Of course, there is no extant issue with
This election will no doubt usher in an era of fear and regression for trans and queer communities, particularly young people and transfeminine people who are the primary targets of the rhetorical attacks.
Research Council and Moms for Liberty. As Trump has reshaped his political image, he has joined these groups in grabbing onto trans folks as a convenient scapegoat and a focus of some of their most aggressively backwards policies.
Here are six ways in which Trump has promised to target trans and queer people during his second administration: 1. Trump Will Repress Trans Youth in Schools and Punish Teachers Who Support Them
In the name of “Parents’ Rights,” Trump’s website outlines his plans to investigate and defund schools and programs “pushing Critical Race Theory or gender ideology on our children.” Gender ideology has been largely interpreted by right-wing activists to mean any discussion of pronouns, nonbinary and queer identity, and transaffirming stories, including children’s books featuring trans characters.
Trump also plans to push for a federal “Parental Bill of Rights” similar to those proposed in dozens of states, which require teachers and administrators to notify parents if students want to change their
“men” attempting to play on women’s sports teams. In action, this means Trump will continue to malign transgender women as men pretending to be women, calling on junk science to claim that trans women and girls have an unfair advantage in sports. Trump has indicated that he would attempt to use executive action to punish schools that allow trans girls to play on girls’ teams. Congress could also pursue passage of a federal law to this effect — a 2023 bill, HR 734, was stopped by the Democraticcontrolled Senate but passed the House.
3. Trump Will Push for a Restrictive Federal Definition of Gender
Taking his anti-trans virulence a step further, Trump plans to redefine gender at the federal level as a binary recognizing only male-assigned men and female-assigned women. This flies in the face of current medical consensus, which defines gender as a category distinct from sex assigned at birth. These definitions are key to interpreting anti-discrimination protection — if sex is narrowly defined as a binary of male and continued on page 16
Little Activisms by
Judy Saint
Take a Break
You have the gift of prophecy. You, dear loyal reader, know how the election turned out and what aftermath came about as a result. I write this on November 4, the day just before the election, so I have no idea what our mental states will need when you read this. However, I do know one thing: We all need a break, however brief.
I’m giving myself space to breathe today instead of writing about activism. I shall take care of myself instead. You can do the same, regardless of where we are. Take care of yourself first, they say. They’re right, as you know.
I think I shall read my comic books today. I have quite the collection. I’ll tell you about it sometime. I recommend listening to Billie Eilish, Cher, or maybe the intro to November Rain playing on a loop with volume up. Way up.
Check out this fun photo from San Diego when we rented a 3-wheel motorcycle with GPS-guided audio tours
installed, ready to play as we drove along. It was fantastic. Perhaps today I shall take my motorcycle out for some cool fresh air in my face.
Take care of yourselves. Thanks for being here.
Little Activisms encourages readers to consider small changes we can make to help social causes, and to feel good about ourselves for taking small risks. Judy Saint is President of the Greater Sacramento Chapter of Freedom From Religion Foundation and author of The Pleasant Atheist Adult Coloring Book available on Amazon. She and her wife live in Roseville, CA.
Fly South for the Winter with Sacramento International Airport
by SMF Staff
As the Sacramento weather (finally!) shifts to cooler temperatures, now is the time to start thinking about your winter getaway. Two new nonstop flights will get you closer to beaches, vibrant culture, fun festivals and incredible cuisine.
American Airlines’ nonstop flight to Miami returned on November 5 with options almost every day of the week. Looking for an exciting, diverse destination? Miami is a melting pot of cultures, offering a rich blend of art, music, and culinary experiences. Winter brings a variety of events, from art fairs to music festivals. Keep an eye out for the Miami Art Basel, when leading galleries from five continents display their modern and contemporary artwork from Dec. 6 to 8.
From Feb. 20 – 23, the star-studded South Beach Wine & Food Festival showcases some of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities.
The city’s diverse neighborhoods mirror those signature events. One of the oldest neighborhoods, Historic Overtown, was long known as the “Harlem of the South and a place where visitors can check out colorful murals by black artists, comfort food at Michelin-recognized restaurants or hole-inthe-wall spots with incredible dishes or take in a comedy or jazz show. In Little Havana, the Cuban influence can be found in its shops, historical monuments, and restaurants. Colorful Little Haiti is a great place to see Caribbean arts and artisan goods. Wynwood is famous for its colorful murals and graffiti, turning the neighborhood into an open-air gallery. It’s also a hot spot for checking out some of the city’s trendy restaurants, cafes, and bars.
South Beach and Miami Beach are not only known for their golden beaches, but also theirs vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes, featuring bars, clubs, restaurants and shops. Wilton Manors, located just north of Fort Lauderdale draws large crowds for the Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival every June.
If you haven’t been to Mexico City, now is the time! Volaris offers nonstops from SMF to Mexico’s capital city on Tuesday, Thursday
and Saturday.
No trip to CDMX is complete without sampling the food. From street food to fine dining, the city is making all the best lists. With 62 Michelin-recognized restaurants and five with stars, you’ll want to come hungry. Eating well doesn’t mean breaking the bank. In fact, Taquería El Califa de León is the first taco stand to receive a Michelin star. Stroll the bustling markets like La Mercado de Merced and artisan markets for unique crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Winter offers many seasonal celebrations, including Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe in December. The event is marked with colorful processions and festivities – and of course more food. The city is home to numerous museums, including the Frida Kahlo Museum, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the Museo Soumaya. With its ancient ruins, colonial architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods, Mexico City is steeped in history. Spend some time wandering the Zocalo and Templo Mayor. The stunning Chapultepec is one of the largest city parks in the world.
Mexico City is considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in Latin America and the city celebrates its diversity. Mexico City hosts one of the largest Pride parades in the world every June, attracting millions of spectators and participants, while neighborhoods like Zona Rosa are known for their LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and businesses, making them welcoming and inclusive spaces.
Located just 10 miles from downtown Sacramento, SMF is easily accessible, has fewer crowds than Bay Are airports and all the modern amenities like lounges, dining and shopping to make for the smoothest travel experience. These new flights are just one more reason to fly SMF. It’s not too soon to start thinking about your getaway. For more information, visit sacramento.aero.
Mexico City skyline
Sacramento Rainbow Chamber Of Commerce Statement
On behalf of the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce, Sacramento Rainbow Chamber Foundation, and our local LGBTQ+ Media Outlet Outword Magazine, we extend our heartfelt solidarity to everyone feeling the weight of this election. In times of profound grief and uncertainty, we stand together as a community, uplifted by the courage and compassion shared by LGBTQIA+ leaders across our region, state and around the nation. These voices remind us of our collective strength and our unwavering commitment to equality, dignity and respect for all. Now, more than ever, we must draw from each other’s resilience, hold each other close and continue to champion a future where every person feels a sense of belonging. Together, we will persevere, honoring the legacy of those who have fought for our rights and those who continue the work towards the future we know is possible for all.
Local Statements:
Sacramento LGBT Community Center: “We want to remind you that the LGBTQ+ community, and the Center, have demonstrated time and again that we are not only resilient to attacks on our existence, but have found ways to thrive in a hostile environment. We’ve expanded services in ways and are reaching more LGBTQ+ people than we dreamt about just a decade ago… Our commitment to care for the most vulnerable is unwavering and our experience will guide our continued fight to protect our community regardless of the challenges ahead.”
Stonewall Foundation of Greater Sacramento: “As a LGBTQIA+ community, we are so damn resilient. We always have been. Our Black and Brown siblings, our Trans siblings, have led the way, carrying burdens they should never have had to bear alone. Our communities demonstrate incredible strength and resilience, though what they truly deserve is peace. And joy. And safety. And health. And love. But instead, they are forced to fight and fight back, not as some idle pastime but as a fundamental necessity for survival. To claw their way through dog whistles and false civility, needing to be exceptional just to be seen and valued… The Stonewall Foundation remains as committed as ever to supporting our LGBTQIA+ youth with access to culturally competent and affirming services. Our priority is to protect their mental health and well-being.”
California Statements:
The Transgender District: “Through every shift, we stay grounded in the power of our resilience. Now, more than ever, we’re committed to amplifying Transgender and Gender Nonconforming voices and to holding space for everyone impacted. Together, we are stronger.” San Diego Pride: “We are reminded of a comment from community organizer, Noun Abdelaziz, that ‘despair is a privilege you earn when you’ve done all you can. We have not yet earned that privilege.’ This election result is painful, and it is a reminder that we, even more so today, have to unite together as one LGBTQIA community… We must remember that our community has been in impossible conditions before and we have prevailed. We call upon generations of LGBTQIA+ ancestors and the resilience they taught us, and we move forward. We also call upon allies, advocates, and organizations to unite and build a future where the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals are protected, and where love and acceptance triumph over hate and division. Together, we will rise above the challenges ahead, ensuring that our voices are heard and our rights are never taken for granted.”
Tony Hoang, Executive Director of Equality California: “We refuse to return to a life of fear or hide our identities behind closet doors. To our LGBTQ+ friends and loved ones, we want you to know that we are prepared for the fight ahead. California has already enacted some of the strongest laws in the nation to help protect LGBTQ+ people from the damaging effects of a second Trump administration. We now stand ready to mobilize our supporters and work in close coordination with pro-equality legislators in Sacramento and D.C. and California’s vast network of LGBTQ+ and allied organizations to further protect our rights and ensure that California remains a safe haven for LGBTQ+ people across the country…We will keep organizing across this nation, raising our voices and resisting every barrier. Our light is too bright to hide, and our community is too strong to break.”
National Statements:
Mark Segel, Stonewall Pioneer and Lifelong Activist: “As we have done for the past 55 years since Stonewall, we will continue to stand tall, proud, and ready to wage the good fight. This isn’t new; there have been times when elections in this country directly impacted our lives. Let’s reflect on those moments, the challenges we faced, and how we not only survived but made progress.”
Kelley Robinson, President of the Human Rights Campaign: “We know our community is feeling scared, angry, and worried about what’s next for them and their families. We see you - there’s no question that we will face more challenges in the years to come in as part of our fight for full LGBTQ+ equality. But our ancestors taught us that resilience is our superpower. Make no mistake – we are not backing down. And we are going to continue to show up for each other and for the march toward progress–no matter what … The path ahead will be challenging, but we are prepared. We will use every tool at our disposal–from advocacy to education to litigation to campaigns–to protect our communities and advance progress where we can. We will build power by building each other up, with a dedication to forging a better path for our future. To every LGBTQ+ person feeling scared, I see you. I feel you. And I need you to hear this: You are not alone. You are loved. You are worthy. And you have an entire community standing with you, today and every day.”
Message signed by 70+ LGBTQ+ Organizations: “Ours is a long history of never backing down from a fight for our rights. United in our strength, during the most difficult of times, we have pushed forward and achieved significant progress across the decades. From the early days of the Mattachine Society and Daughters of Bilitis, to the Stonewall Uprising and HIV/AIDS activism, to achieving marriage equality and anti-discrimination protections in the workplace, to the fight for transgender rights, and beyond, we march on. For every member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and for those who support us: We’ve got this. We’ve got us. No matter who you are, where you live, or the outcome of yesterday’s election, today we are an LGBTQIA2S+ community united. Together, across races, places, genders, and abilities, we have shown up for each other by organizing, mobilizing, and casting our ballots for the freedom to be ourselves. Our work continues.”
As we process the weight of this moment and those still to come, the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce stands firmly alongside our LGBTQIA+ leaders, organizations, and individuals who will continue to fight for and uplift our most marginalized and histori0cally underrepresented communities. Together, we commit to investing in a brighter, more inclusive future where justice and equity are not just ideals, but realities. Our strength lies in standing together, choosing love over fear, and uniting in our dedication to protect and uplift one another. May we all find a way forward, together, with unwavering hope and solidarity.
In Solidarity, Community, and Love
The Sacramento Rainbow Chamber of Commerce, the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber Foundation, and Outword Magazine
LGBTQ+ Resources For After the Election
LGBTQ+ Mental Health Resources
Need support navigating this difficult moment? Here are mental health resources to help you cope with the post-election outcome. Reminder to take care of yourselves and each other.
• BlackLine (for queer BIPOC community): 1-800-604-5841
• Crisis Text Line: text “HOME” to 741-741
• DeQH Helpline (for queer South Asians): 908-367-3374
• LGBT National Hotline: 888-843-4564
• National Suicide Crisis Lifeline: 988 and text “PRIDE” for LGBTQ+ services
• Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860
• TrevorLifeline: call 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678-678
SAGE’s LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline, which offers LGBTQ+ older people with mental health support and information about local resources
Local LGBTQ+ Resources
• Mental Health First https://www.antipoliceterrorproject.org/mh-first-sac Call/Text: 916-670-4062, Email: MHFirstSac@gmail.com Only available Friday through Sunday 7pm-7am
The goal of MH First is to respond to mental health crises including, but not limited to, psychiatric emergencies, substance use support, and domestic violence safety planning.
• Local Resource Guide created by the Gender Health Center: Post Election Safety Plan Strategies
• Sacramento LGBT Community Center Mental Health Resources: https:// saccenter.org/mental-health
Legal Resources
• California ACLU affiliates’ My School My Rights, which provides information on the many rights LGBTQ+ students in California have and how to access them
• California Department of Education’s compilation of informationand resources for LGBTQ+ students and their families
• Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Immigrant Legal Services, which provides legal consultations and assistance
• California Civil Rights Department’s CA vs. Hate portal, where community members can report hate incidents and find relevant support resources
• California Department of Managed Health Care’s information page on Trans-Inclusive Care and Gender-Affirming Care
• ACLU of Southern California’s Know Your Rights for Protesters
• Searchable map of programs and facilities that support LGBTQ+ youth and their families
• California Civil Rights Department’s Complaint Process webpage, which offers information on how to file a complaint if you were subjected to discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in a place of employment or housing
• California Department of Justice’s Public Inquiry Unit, which offers information on the various types of programs and Department contact information
• California Department of Veterans Affairs’ LGBTQ+ Veterans webpage, which offers resources for LGBTQ+ veterans in California
The Sacramento Rainbow Chamber hosted its monthly Drag Queen Bingo on November 7 at Mango’s. Hosted by the fabulous Do Me Moore, this event brought the community together to raise money for Friends at Front Street Shelter. With over $480,000 raised for local non profits so far, The Chamber’s Drag Queen Bingo continues to be a vibrant gathering for a cause. Don’t miss the next chance to join them on the first Thursday of every month at Mango’s.
Forty and Fabulous! Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus Celebrates 40th Season
In 1984, a group of Sacramento men gathered to sing together and create joy in their lives. They were looking for a place to find happiness. At that time there were few places outside the bar scene where gay men could get together and openly be themselves. With compassion and courage, this group of about two dozen built a community in which they supported and advocated for each other, and for all gay men in the Sacramento area.
In the early 1980s, this was no small feat. They called themselves the Sacramento Men’s Chorus because it was not safe to “say gay.” One could be fired, evicted, shunned, and worse. At that time, there was no political infrastructure. No protection. But these founding members found joy in singing together and performing throughout the community. Their first concert was held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on J Street in Sacramento. They sang at community events and even performed the National Anthem at King’s games.
Forty years later, the chorus is proudly known as the Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus (SGMC). It currently consists of more than 110 singers from diverse backgrounds and identities. They are united by a love of music and a commitment to promoting social justice, equality, and LGBTQ+ rights through the power of music. And two of the founding members are still singing with the chorus!
SGMC performs in expected places such as pride festivals, queer proms, Coming Out Day, and other LGBTQ+ events, but they are embraced by the wider community as well. You’ll find SGMC on stage at Race for the Arts, Veteran’s Memorial Day Services, California State Senate Opening Session, community festivals, farmers markets, and the Old Sacramento Tree Lighting Ceremony.
The Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus has sold out every performance over the last three seasons, booking larger venues each year. Their 40th Season finds them kitty-corner from their first concert venue with their celebrated “Holiday Hits with a Splash of Sass!” This year’s show promises to be a festive and entertaining celebration of the season, featuring a mix of classic holiday hits and some unexpected surprises.
SGMC will fill the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium on December 6 and 7 with an evening show on Friday and a matinee on Saturday. Tickets are available at www. sacgaymenschorus.com or call the Memorial Auditorium box office at (916) 808-5181.
Start your holiday season with a Splash of Sass!
Season One Family Photo
Season 39 Family Photo
Take A Shine to “Chromography“
ARTHOUSE on R Street in Sacramento is proud to present the art exhibition “Chromography,” featuring the work of Donald Satterlee, this November 8 - December 8, 2024.
“Chromography” features digitally manipulated color photographs based on Satterlee’s extensive collection of photos of all things chrome. With literally thousands of photos of beautiful autos from which to work, these composited, mirrored images create some wonderfully abstract objects.
Some resemble jewelry, others robots, even animals, and Satterlee’s favorites, hearts. His love of color, texture, line, and shiny steel surfaces all come together in this intriguing series of works.
To learn more about Donald Satterlee, please visit: Facebook.com. Search for Satterlee Photographs. Then click on Photos.
“The Peace Puppy”
Susan Hartzler’s memoir, The Peace Puppy: A Memoir of Caregiving and Canine Solace, offers a deeply personal exploration of the challenges faced by family caregivers in the U.S., a group of more than 53 million providing unpaid care. Through her heartfelt narrative, Hartzler shares her experience caring for her aging father, shedding light on the emotional, physical, and financial toll caregiving can take. Central to her story is Baldwin, a rescue dog who provided her with emotional support, comfort, and laughter during difficult times, illustrating the powerful bond between humans and pets.
Hartzler’s book blends humor and raw honesty as she navigates love, loss, and resilience. Baldwin, her loyal companion, was a crucial source of strength during the most trying moments of caregiving. Her memoir offers a touching and timely perspective on caregiving in the U.S., a subject growing in importance as the population ages and the long-term care system struggles.
Hartzler’s work aligns with the national conversation on caregiving, a topic soon to be highlighted in Bradley Cooper’s upcoming 2025 documentary Caregiving, which will feature stories like Hartzler’s. Through The Peace Puppy, she not only shares her own experiences but also contributes to a broader discussion on the caregiving crisis. Hartzler’s memoir, along with her previous book I’m Not Single, I Have a Dog, is available at major book retailers, and she is working on a new book about therapy dogs.
Oscar Contenders Arrive Reviews of 4 New Films
Tby Chris Narloch
he beginning of Oscar season is upon us, and the hype (and hyperbole) that goes along with it has begun. Three of the four films reviewed below stand a serious chance of being nominated for awards.
Heretic
Finally, what we’ve all been waiting for – a horror film for theology students(!) Fans of high-brow horror often find profundity in odd places, which may help explain the ecstatic reactions online to this so-so new chiller about a religious fanatic – emphasis on fanatic – who terrorizes two Mormon missionary girls who knock on the wrong door while saving souls.
That premise is promising, and Hugh Grant is excellent as always as the madman, but the direction isn’t as suspenseful as it should be, and after one too many bizarre twists (and a lot of rather dull religious discussion), I mentally checked out on the movie. This film won’t be winning any Oscars, but if you want to see the ordinarily funny Hugh Grant play a real sicko, go for it. In wide theatrical release.
Conclave
This classy new drama, about the process of picking a new Pope after the old Pope dies, sounds like it would be a boring bummer, but it’s not, thanks to a smart script and a dynamite cast that includes Stanley Tucci, Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini, and John Lithgow. Fiennes is particularly moving as a very moral man who does not want to be the new Pope but wants to make certain that the next pontiff does not take the church backwards. “Conclave” is a totally timely, very entertaining, and award-worthy movie.
An actress named Mikey Madison gives an award-worthy, go-for-broke performance in this dramatic thriller from the great director Sean Baker (“The Florida Project,” “Red Rocket”) about a high-priced stripper named Anora (or Ani) who gets in over her head with a dangerous, filthy-rich Russian guy. Madison is frequently physically (and emotionally) naked in a very demanding role. Her character’s incredibly immature boyfriend-turned-husband has powerful parents who refuse to accept that their son has married a sex worker he barely knows, and that is where the crazy fun begins. “Anora” is another riveting rollercoaster ride from Sean Baker
Memoir of a Snail
After a series of misfortunes, a snail-collecting, melancholic misfit learns how to find confidence within herself amid the clutter of everyday life. That is the synopsis for this terrific new stop-motion film from Australia, which (like 2022’s “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio”) is probably more suited to adults.
There have been several great animated features this year, including “Inside Out 2” and, more recently, “The Wild Robot.” You can add “Memoir of a Snail” to the likely Oscar shortlist for Best Animated Feature of 2024.
Note: “Anora,” “Conclave,” and “Memoir of a Snail” were all still playing at Sacramento’s Tower Theatre as we went to press.
Anora
Heretic
Anora
Conclave
Memoir of a Snail
Queer Films for Fall
Tby Chris Narloch
here are other queer (and queer-friendly) films scheduled to be released before the end of 2024, but these are the four that I have already seen, and here are my reviews.
Will & Harper
I never thought I would be writing this sentence, but Will Ferrell needs to be honored with a GLAAD award for his part in getting this extraordinary, potentially mindchanging trans documentary made, especially considering the current, trans-phobic climate we find ourselves living in.
When Ferrell finds out that Harper (formerly Andrew) Steele, his close friend of 30 years, has come out as a trans woman, the two embark on a cross-country road trip to process this new stage of their relationship. I won’t spoil the film’s many surprises, except to say that I already knew Ferrell could crack me up, but I did not know that he could bring me to tears.
The odd couple in “Will & Harper” turns out to be not very odd at all, and that is the point of this great movie – that love and friendship transcend our physical bodies. The new Netflix doc is funny, fascinating, and incredibly moving. Don’t miss it.
My Partner
Cultures collide in this gentle, upbeat queer love story starring native Hawaiian Kaipo Dudoit and Filipino Jayron Munoz in their debut feature film roles, as two young men forced to work on a school project together whose initial dislike for each other melts away as they get closer. (Both lead actors are super-cute and have nice chemistry.)
Aside from being a sweet little film, “My Partner” was also the final movie to shoot on location in Lahaina, Hawai’i, prior to the devastating fire in 2023 and is therefore a time capsule portrait of a past paradise. This film was recently made available on major streaming VOD platforms.
National Anthem
This hypnotic, dreamlike movie was filmed in rural New Mexico, and it’s essentially a modern, queer Western about a group of gender-fluid and sexually adventurous outcasts who create their own family on a ranch in the desert.
The protagonist, a restless, 21-year-old construction worker (beautifully played by Charlie Plummer), finds his tribe and falls in love among the queer ranchers and rodeo performers. “National Anthem” may be a fantasy, but it’s a beautiful and compelling one, and director Luke Gilford is a talent to keep an eye on. This film is available to stream on several VOD platforms.
Studio One Forever
Most queer folks are familiar with Studio 54, the famous (but short-lived) NYC club that defined the disco era of the ‘70s, but I had never heard of Studio One, a Los Angeles club that was the West Coast equivalent of discos like SoHo’s gay-friendly Paradise Garage.
Formerly known as The Factory, Studio One was a hugely popular WeHo nightclub frequented by gays and Hollywood celebrities. Joan Rivers, Chita Rivera, Wayland Flowers, and other queer-friendly entertainers appeared at Studio One during the ‘70s and ‘80s, and this nostalgic and moving new documentary looks back fondly on the club’s glory days.
Available on VOD via Gravitas.
Will & Harper
My Partner
Studio One Forever
National Anthem
LGBTQ+ Friendly
&
2531 Broadway (at 26th St. in Sacramento) (916) 736-3467
Open 9am-1am daily
Bad for Trans...continued
Food Beverage and More
from page 4
female, federal Title IX protections can no longer be interpreted to protect trans people from discrimination. Trump has also vowed to reinstate rules from his previous administration that allowed federal housing programs to openly discriminate against unhoused trans people who seek services in sex-segregated housing facilities, using similarly narrow and regressive definitions of biological sex to force women into men’s shelters or turn them away entirely.
4. The Trump Administration Will Roll Back Health Care Access for Trans People
The legal definition of sex and gender also has a bearing on trans people’s access to necessary health care, an area in which Trump has been clear about his priorities.
During his first presidency, Trump’s administration set a precedent by rolling back federal protections against health care discrimination for trans people under the Affordable Care Act. If these policies are reinstated, trans people may be restricted not just from accessing trans-specific care in many cases, but also potentially from accessing any care — as open discrimination on the basis of gender identity may become legal (again) under Trump. While individual health insurers and health care providers are free to not discriminate, they will not be prevented from doing so by the federal government; on the contrary, they’ll virtually be cheered on to do just that.
Trump also claims he will criminalize gender-affirming care for minors, punishing physicians who provide such care by restricting Medicaid and Medicare funding and even opening DOJ investigations into these doctors. He has also vowed to stop providing gender-affirming care in federal prisons and to enforce Republicans’ restrictive definitions of gender in prisons and detention centers.
A study in 2017 found that already over a quarter of trans people had postponed necessary medical care out of fear, and that those who delayed care were more likely to be depressed and to attempt suicide. If these rules unfold as Trump has claimed they will, doctors and health care providers will be fearful of providing trans-affirming care, and trans and nonbinary people will be even more afraid to access care at all, causing devastating ripple effects for trans people’s mental health and physical well-being. Trans people in federal prisons, like trans people in many state facilities, will be forced into housing situations that make them even more vulnerable to transphobic violence, and unable to medically transition while incarcerated.
5. The Trump Administration Will Deport and Abuse Trans and Queer Migrants and Refugees
Trump’s campaign rhetoric had included the accusation that a Kamala Harris administration would support “transgender operations on illegal aliens that are in prison” — a statement which referred to Harris’s agreement that the federal government should in fact provide gender-affirming health care to migrants it is holding in cages without charges.
In addition to keeping trans migrants from
getting the care they need while incarcerated, the Trump administration’s open plans to carry out mass deportations affect the health and safety of trans and queer communities in myriad other ways. Many refugees and migrants are trans and queer people pushed out of their own home communities, who are then vulnerable to violence and discrimination throughout their path of migration. Indiscriminate deportation will mean trans and queer immigrants are swept up into dangerous and unwelcoming detention facilities, subject to rape and abuse, and turned into easy targets for violence and discrimination.
6. Trump Will Ban Trans People From the Military (Again)
When President Joe Biden took power in 2021, he acted quickly to roll back Trump’s previous policy banning trans people from open military service. A majority of U.S. residents polled in 2021 (66 percent) supported trans military service. While Trump has not made as much noise recently on this particular issue, in all likelihood, a second Trump administration will lead to a second set of attacks on transgender troops, in spite of the unpopularity of this policy and the multiple legal challenges to the ban during Trump’s first term. Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation plan that lays out the right-wing movement’s visions for a Trump presidency in detail, says “gender dysphoria is incompatible with the demands of military service,” and calls for a ban on use of public money for “transgender surgeries” and abortions.
This election will no doubt usher in an era of fear and regression for trans and queer communities, particularly young people and transfeminine people who are the primary targets of the rhetorical attacks. Over just a decade, trans people have gone from being a little-known minority (at less than 1 percent of the adult population) to a hotly debated scapegoat, in the crosshairs of the new culture wars. But cultural debates aside, the changes to safety, health access and economic security will necessitate sustained grassroots resistance including mutual aid, policy advocacy, and likely defiance of unjust rules and laws. Small, community-driven trans advocacy organizations are already doing this work across the country, and in regions where the repression Trump is pursuing is already well underway — they deserve and need our support as their work becomes ever more challenging and urgent.
Lewis Raven Wallace (he/they/ze) is an independent journalist based in Durham, North Carolina, and the author and creator of The View from Somewhere book and podcast. He’s currently a Ford Global Fellow, and the Abolition Journalism Fellow with Interrupting Criminalization. He previously worked in public radio, and is a long-time activist engaged in prison abolition, racial justice, and queer and trans liberation. He is white and transgender, and was born and raised in the Midwest with deep roots in the South.
Please support our boldly independent journalism with a donation of any size: truthout.org
Out & About
Fwith Matthew Burlingame
or many LGBTQ people, chosen family plays a vital role, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving. While traditional family gatherings can sometimes bring feelings of rejection or discomfort due to identity, chosen families offer a safe, supportive space where individuals are fully accepted for who they are. These friendships and relationships, built on mutual understanding and love, create a sense of belonging that can be missing in biological families. Celebrating with a chosen family allows LGBTQ individuals to enjoy the holiday authentically, surrounded by people who affirm their identities and provide emotional support, turning Thanksgiving into a true celebration of community.
Join the Sacramento Rainbow Chamber and Hard Rock Café for the LGBTQ Reception “Let’s Get To Know One Another” on Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, 3317 Forty Mile Rd. in Wheatland. Enjoy complimentary appetizers, a cash bar, and great company. Free to attend—stay and play after! Rainbowchamber.com
Eddie Izzard brings The Remix Tour Live to UC Davis’ Mondavi Center, Jackson Hall, One Shields Ave. in Davis on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. Known for thought-provoking, surreal comedy, Izzard’s performance promises an unforgettable night. His 35-year career includes record-breaking tours, acclaimed film, TV, and theater performances. Mondaviarts.org
Join the holiday cheer at the Fallon House Theatre, 11175 Washington St. in Columbia, for “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer,” a heartwarming stage adaptation of the beloved TV classic by Robert Penola with music and lyrics by Johnny Marks. From Nov. 21-Dec. 22, witness Rudolph’s journey to accept his differences and save Christmas. Sierrarep.org.
PFLAG Sacramento, TransFamilies Sacramento, and Trinity Cathedral will co-sponsor the 2024 Annual Transgender Day of Remembrance Candlelight Vigil on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 6:30 p.m. The event, which honors lives lost due to antitransgender violence, will be held at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 2620 Capitol Ave. Admission is free, and the memorial will also be streamed at Sacgender.org/tdor
On Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 8 p.m., the CGNIE Reigning Monarchs host their monthly event at Bear Dive Bar, 1330 H St. Every third Wednesday, the Monarchs present a unique experience, from drag shows to
LGBT panels and creative hours. The event is free and open to guests ages 21 and up. CGNIE.org
The Harvest Festival will bring a variety of handmade American arts and crafts to Cal Expo, 1600 Exposition Blvd. on Nov. 15-17. Browse sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, and holiday decor, while enjoying live music by Dustin Heer and Evan Thomas Blues Band. Calexpostatefair.com
Cal Expo’s Imaginarium, 1600 Exposition Blvd. returns Nov. 22-Jan. 5, celebrating its 10th anniversary with millions of lights, a mirrored rose garden, and holiday characters. New immersive activity rooms engage guests of all ages, alongside classic attractions like carnival rides and ice skating. Santa visits on select nights until Dec. 24.
David Černý (Czech, born 1967), Albert Einstein, 2019. Photo by Pablo Quezada, courtesy of Centro Cultural Tijuana.
The Crocker Art Museum presents “David Černý: Rebellion”, on display through Jan. 12. Czech artist David Černý, known for his monumental public sculptures, uses satire and provocation to critique authority and address political and societal issues. His works, often rooted in the history of the Czech Republic and post-WWII Europe, invite direct engagement from viewers. Organized by Centro Cultural Tijuana and made possible by HOHMANN, Inc., the exhibition is held at the Crocker Art Museum, 216 O St. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Černý’s bold and thought-provoking art firsthand. Crockerart.org
Do you have events, birthdays, or announcements to share? Feel free to send them to matthewburlingame@gmail.com.
Sing-Along with “Encanto” Live
This month, you can treat the “Encanto” lovers in your family to a sing-along film unlike any other. Watch the full Oscar-winning film on the big screen while musicians perform the Grammy-winning songs live on the Mondavi Center stage, inside Jackson Hall.
For one night, fans are encouraged to dress up like Mirabel, Luisa, Isabela or any of their favorite “Encanto” characters and sing along with the famous Grammywinning songs penned by living legend Lin-Manuel Miranda -- including the breakout hit “We Don’t Talk About Bruno.” The film is accompanied by the live band Banda de la Casita.
Don’t miss this opportunity to transform the Mondavi Center into one big celebration of the Madrigal family, right here in the Sacramento region, for one night only, this Nov. 22. Visit: www.mondaviarts.org
Advertiser Directory
Advertisers with a contract of four months or more.
ADULT STORES
L’AMOUR SHOPPE
2531 Broadway, 916-736-3467l
BARS / CLUBS
BADLANDS
2003 K St. 916-441-6823 SacBadlands.com
FACES
2000 K St., Sac, Faces.net
THE BOLT 2560 Boxwood St., Sac., 916 649-8420 • SacBolt.com
THE DEPOT
2001 K St., Sac, 916-441-6823 TheDepot.net
CHIROPRACTORS
HEALING TOUCH CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Darrick Lawson, 1210 G Street, 916-447-3344 www.FixMyBack.com
COUNSELING
WEAVE
916-920-2952 (24/7) www.weaveinc.org
BANKS / CREDIT UNIONS
TRI COUNTIES BANK www.tricountiesbank.com
DENTISTRY
ERIC GROVE, DDS
KENDALL HOMER, DMD 9216 Kiefer Blvd., STE 5 916-363-9171 • grovehomerdentists.com
DINING/BEVERAGES
LA COSECHA
916-970-5354 LaCosechaSacramento.com
ROSCOE’S BAR & BURGERS 916-898-3631 Roscoes916.com
SCOTT’S SEAFOOD - ON THE RIVER 916-379-5959 ScottsSeafoodontheRiver.com THE WATERBOY 916-498-9891 www.waterboyrestaurant.com
FINANCIAL PLANNING
MIDTOWN FINANCIAL
Al Roche, 1750 Creekside Dr. Suite 215, 916-447-9220 MidtownFinancial.net
STEELE FINANCIAL PARTNERS Judy Steele, Financial Advisor 916-846-7733 www.steelefp.com
FLOAT CENTER
CAPITOL FLOATS www.capitolfloats.com
HEATING & AIR
PERFECTION HOME SYSTEMS 916-481-0658 www.HotCold.com
HEALTH SERVICES
CAPITAL CITY AIDS FUND 1912 F Street, 916-448-1110 PlayButPlaySafe.org
RIVER BEND MEDICAL ASSOC. www.rbmafamilydocs.com
LIBRARIES
FRIENDS OF THE SAC. PUBLIC LIBRARY 8250 Belvedere, Ste. E, 916-731-8493
MUSEUMS
CROCKER ART MUSEUM 916-808-7000 CrockerArt.org
OPTOMETRY
CAMERON YEE, O.D. 6407 Riverside Blvd., 916-395-0673 DrCameronYee@aol.com
PERFORMING ARTS
BROADWAY SACRAMENTO
Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center 916-557-1999 BroadwaySacramento.com
HARRIS CENTER 10 College Parkway, Folsom, CA 95630 916-608-6888 HarrisCenter.net
MONDAVI CENTER UC Davis mondaviarts.org
PEST MANAGEMENT
EARTH GUARD PEST SERVICES 916-457-7605 contact@earthguardpest.com
PHARMACY
PUCCI’S PHARMACY 3257 Folsom Blvd., 916-442-5891 www.puccirx.com
REAL ESTATE
COLDWELL BANKER
Mark T. Peters, 916-341-7794 www.MarkPeters.biz
LYON REAL ESTATE Tanya Curry, 916-698-9970 TCurry.GoLyon.com
MCMARTIN REALTY Brian McMartin, 916-402-4160 brian@brianmcmartin.com McMartinRealty.com
