outwords queer views, news, issues
Daniel MacIvor
Queer is in
the heart
Archie’s ’peg Pride Chaz Bono h-phobia gay friend is turning 25 dancing revolT! gets a green light?
Outwords | November 2011 | Issue 188 | Serving the GLBT Community Since 1994
5 Hate laws vs freedom of speech editorial
13 20 29 trans day of Dialing down cooking up remembrance Keeping the spirit alive
difficult people Connection coach
a storm off menu
16 26 14 Queer is in the darkness Chaz Bono the heart
within
6 Australia’s
22 18 Archie comic’s iPhone
gender-neutral passports international news
9 blood ban could end national news
10 Pride 25
Kevin Keller back again
21 Full legal rights
Now what?
honours our leaders
24
winter cycling why not? green
social revolutionary dancer?
doesn’t dial up much excitement technology
30
94
%
of Red River College graduates are satisfied with the education they received. RRC students receive high-quality, hands-on training from instructors with industry experience and many students get actual work experience through their programs. As a result, Red River College students arrive in the workforce fully prepared to hit the ground running. *Source: 2008/09 Graduate Satisfaction and Employment Report
www.rrc.ca
K N A TH . U O Y
2012. T CA MP AUROR A t r e a t R O PP SU TO G IN DON AT ce Cen PL EA SE CONSIDERa t io n t o t h e R a in b o w R e s o u r P l e a s e in d ic a t e n . S e n d y o u r d o e t , W in n ip e g , M B , R 3 L 0 L 3 n a t io n s o f $ 2 0 17 0 S c o t t S t r e t io n is f o r C a m p A u r o r a . D o ip t . t h a t y o u r d o n a c e i v e a ch a r i t a b l e t a x r e c e o r m o r e w il l r e
WITH THE SUPPORT OF GENEROUS FUNDERS, DONORS, AND VOLUNTEERS, 50 YOUTH
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outwords
editorial
Serving the GLBT Community Since 1994 Issue 188 • november 2011
Published by the outwords volunteer staff:
Rachel Morgan
Once more into the breach
editor
Gord McDiarmid General manager
M. Buchanan art director & layout
Is it a crime to dis-
rachel morgan
tribute pamphlets
carious situation? Whatcott, the man at the
denouncing homo-
centre of the court case, has a long history
Devin Frezzi Advertising Relations Co-ordinator
Barry Karlenzig Financial officer
Terry Wiebe, Gord McDiarmid distribution Vic Hooper web manager
Charis Hernandez Office manager
Rachel Morgan, Michele Buchanan, Corey Shefman, Katrina Caudle, Peter Carlyle-Gordge, Barb Burkowski, Kenton Smith, Ryan Furber, Chandra Dupuis, Brad Tyler-West, Nancy Renwick, Alana Lajoie-O’Malley contributors to this issue
Debbie Scarborough, Darron Field , Helen Fallding, Shayne Duguay, Gail Eckert Scott Carman board of directors
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Editor: editor@outwords.ca Creative: creative@outwords.ca Advertising: advertise@outwords.ca Distribution: distribution@outwords.ca Accounts: billing@outwords.ca Event Submissions: calendar@outwords.ca Letters Submissions: letters@outwords.ca Website: www.outwords.ca Outwords provides news, analysis and entertainment for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, two-spirit and queer community and its allies. GST 89671 7618RT, ISSN 1715-5606 (print) ISSN 1715-5614 (online) Canada Post Publication Licence 416 99032, Contents copyright © 2011 Outwords Alll rights reserved. Outwords is a member of the Manitoba Magazine Publishers’ Association. Articles are not necessarily the views of the staff, management, or board. We accept no liability for our advertisers’ claims.
How did we find ourselves in this pre-
editorial
sexuality? Or is it
of harassing gays. He once barged to the
fair comment to call homosexuals sinners?
front of a Pride parade to disrupt it. He has
That’s the question the Supreme Court is
also harassed staff at a Planned Parenthood
weighing. In mid-October, the court heard
clinic, accusing them of being baby killers.
a landmark case involving a Saskatoon man
He ran for mayor in Edmonton on a plat-
named William Whatcott who distributed
form of fundamentalist Christian values.
thousands of pamphlets railing against
He called himself the “pro-life, pro-family,
homosexuality. The case pits free speech rights against antihate laws. The result will affect all of us. In his pamphlets, Whatcott
Whatcott accuses homosexuals of being “Sodomites” who spread filth and disease.
pro-father, pro-gun alternative.” He is determined that nothing
accuses homosexuals of being “Sodomites”
should stop him from saying whatever he
who spread filth and disease. He was
wants.
prosecuted in 2002 under Saskatchewan’s
The back story – when he was 18, he
anti-hate laws and fined $17,500. But that
was living on the streets and doing drugs.
verdict was overturned by the provincial
He paid off his drug debts by having sex
appeal court. It is now up to Canada’s top
with men. In his words: “I was without
court to decide whether Whatcott’s rights
morals and I had no self-respect. It’s a
have been violated or if the anti-hate laws
little inaccurate to say I was gay.” Some-
should stand.
where along the way, he found religion
The decision is expected to hinge on
and joined the Christian Truth Activists.
whether hate can be clearly defined. That
“Christ saved me from a life of drug and
sounds like it should be easy, but it is turn-
sexual addiction,” he told one reporter. “I
ing out to be a challenge that is confound-
am very grateful to be alive and to have the
ing courts and the governments that write
opportunity to save my Lord in the political
the laws. Any anti-hate law must be writ-
arena.”
ten in such a way that it doesn’t prevent legitimate discussion of contentious issues. If the Supreme Court sides with What-
Whatcott hardly seems deserving of so much attention from the Supreme Court. But freedom of speech is a pillar of democ-
cott and strikes down Saskatchewan’s
racy, so the court is an appropriate place to
anti-hate laws, it is expected similar laws
hear the issue. On the other hand, the pro-
in other provinces would also be nullified.
tection of minorities is an equally impor-
It’s unclear what the full impact of that
tant principle. If the court does overthrow
would be. Potentially, homophobes, racists
existing hate laws, it is vital that the GLBT
and bigots would be free to come out of
community gear up immediately to help
their caves and spew all sorts of hatred.
provinces write new hate laws – laws that
We could see rabid anti-gay rants in print,
strike the right balance between the two
broadcast and digital media. Anti-ho-
principles. If we remain quiet, we will be
mophobia programs in schools would end
subjected to abuse. That cannot be allowed
and kids would be subjected to anti-gay
to happen.
O
epithets in the name of free speech. www.outwords.ca // outwords, november 2011
5
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Repeal Day parties mark victory WASHINGTON—The policy banning open homosexuality in the U.S. military has finally been repealed after nearly two decades.
The
dropping of “don’t ask, don’t tell” means
female and indeterminate – under new
service members can now reveal they
guidelines to remove discrimination
are gay without fear of investigation or
against transgender people. Transgender
discharge. “Repeal Day” parties have been
people and those of ambiguous sex can in
organized across the country to mark the victory for gay rights. The U.S. Congress voted last year to repeal the law, introduced in 1993 under the Clinton administration. It replaced an outright ban on gay people serving in the military. Under the policy, gay people were permitted to serve as long as they did not openly acknowledge their sexual orientation, while commanders were not allowed to ask.
Oz introduces trans-friendly passports CANBERRA—Australian passports will now have three gender options – male,
future list their gender on passports with an “X” if their choice is supported by a doctor’s statement. Previously, gender was a choice of only male or female, and people were not allowed to change their gen-
INTERNAL IMPACTS – When We Become Our Own ‘Bad Guy’
What is Inside and OUT? A guide produced by www.getion.ca to share information about sexual health. This monthly print series is adapted from the booklet. Request a full copy of “Inside and OUT” at coordinator@getiton.ca or download it online at:
When we internalize oppression, we may even put the same harmful pressure on other GLBTTQ people that have been put on us by society such as rejecting people who are “too gay,” or people who are not “gay enough”.
T OU
www.getiton.ca
Sometimes we put blame on ourselves and feel shame because we think there is something unacceptable about being who we are. This internalized oppression puts our health at risk. For example, despite our unique and often unrecognized health needs, we may not feel worthy of quality care. To cope, we might increase our use of alcohol and drugs, which may impair our judgment increasing our risk for STIs, HIV, Hepatitis C and other harms.
OUT
& IDE S IN INSID& E
www.getiton.ca, the GLBTT* Sexual Health Promotion Coalition website, promotes sexual health awareness to help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STI).
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
der on their passport without having had
accused of promoting hate against gay
dom of religion. It did not say if it plans to
a sex-change operation. Senator Louise
people. Campaign group AllOut, which
cancel the 11 accounts.
Pratt, whose partner was born female
gathered more than 25,000 signatures
and who now identifies as a man, said the
in an online petition, says PayPal quickly
reform was a major improvement for trav-
banned white supremacist group the Ku
ellers who face questioning and detention
Klux Klan when complaints rose about
at airports because their appearance does
that group’s account. The activist group
LONDON—The prospect that gay and les-
not match their gender status.
says 11 groups, should have their ac-
bian couples will no longer be denied the
counts closed. They include Abiding Truth
right to marry has moved closer with the
Ministries, which has supported anti-gay
government announcement that an of-
legislation in Uganda, Family Research
ficial consultation on reforming marriage
Institute, and Americans for Truth About
laws will begin next March. Gays and
NEW YORK—PayPal, the electronic pay-
Homosexuality. Both the latter say homo-
lesbians are currently allowed civil part-
ments company, has responded to calls for
sexuality is dangerous and unnatural. A
nerships, but not full marriage. A Home
it to cancel the accounts of faith groups
spokeswoman for PayPal said: “We take
Office spokesman says the consultation on
very seriously any cases where a user has
reforming the marriage laws would only
PayPal dithers over anti-gay groups
Brits inch closer to gay marriage
incited hatred, violence or in-
cover civil marriage for same-sex cou-
tolerance because of a person’s
ples and not religious marriage. Ministers
sexual orientation….However,
have ruled out making it compulsory for
we also take into account the
churches or other faith groups to host gay
rights of free speech and free-
or lesbian marriages. The government
HOW OPPRESSION AFFECTS INSIDE How Oppression Affects Our Health
What Can We Do About Oppression
When we’re taught from an early age that a core part of who we are is “wrong”, we may cope by hiding the parts of ourselves that are not “acceptable” to others. Hiding core parts of us for extended periods of time impacts our health.
Combatting internal oppression leads to a sense of community and a sense of self. When we connect with other GLBTTQ people, we are working against oppression. When we connect with our whole selves—mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual—we are also undoing the effects of oppression.
Consistent evidence shows that stress related to sexual orientation, lead to an increase likelihood of negative mental and physical health consequences. This can happen regardless of whether a person is open about their sexual orientation or not. The effects can include self-blame, decreased self-worth, internalized homophobia, depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts and attempts.
It’s Important for Your Health Questioning your identity can be incredibly draining and can put a strain on different areas of life such as: our relationships with others, decisions regarding condom or barrier while having sex, disruptions to sleep and appetite, and the ability to focus or work.
Support Systems Are Important for Our Health Whether you are just beginning to question aspects of your gender or sexuality, or whether you have come out, it’s important to create a support system for yourself. Supports are the people, places, and things that will be there for you when things are not going well. Supports such as friends, family, health providers, resource centres, the internet and books gives us hope, strength and keep our spirits up.
Free safer sex products are available at Nine Circles Community Health Centre, Rainbow Resource Centre and the Gay Men’s Health Clinic.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Danish PM rejects rumours COPENHAGEN—Denmark’s new prime minister, Helle Thorning-Schmidt, the leader of the Social Democrats, says her family had been hit by a “grotesque” smear. She says there are persistent rumours that her husband, Stephen Kinnock, is gay. Kinnock is the son of former British Labour Party leader Lord Kinnock. The couple have split after 15 years of marriage and one newspaper published a story claiming that Kinnock also says that one option that will not be
was gay. Thorning-Schmidt, 44, told
included in the formal consultation on
Denmark’s Ekstra Bladet: “I can only say
reforming the marriage laws is giving het-
it is not true. It is very unpleasant that
erosexual couples reciprocal rights to civil
newspapers print such rumours and I
partnership ceremonies.
am also sorry that generally there are
uncomfortable, also for my family and my children.” Kinnock lives and works in Geneva. As the rumours swirled he flew to Denmark to be seen alongside his wife, who just became prime minister. – Peter Carlyle-Gordge is a Winipeg-based freelance writer.
these rumours about politicians. It’s really
Homophobic violence sparks response LONDON—An international pressure group is to be launched to tackle the rise in homophobic violence around the world, with a focus on Africa and the Middle East. Britain’s three main political parties have declared their support for Kaleidoscope, an independent group campaigning for the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities, after a series of high-
profile attacks on sexual minorities in developing countries. In August three men were executed in Iran for homosexuality. According to Kaleidoscope, more than a third of all countries still have laws against consensual homosexual acts and 38 of the 54 members of the Commonwealth criminalize homosexuality.
www.kaleidoscopetrust.com
204.985.9200 OUTNABOUTTRAVEL.COM
8
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca
NATIONAL NEWS
Blood Services ponders rule change But new rules would still exclude most gays OTTAWA—Canadian Blood Services (CBS) is reviewing its lifetime ban on men who have sex with men and is considering moving
The pink unit will be used on regular fire
serving homosexual resources to joining
and emergency calls, says union president
in,” she says. “That raises concerns about
Alex Forrest. The day when you might see
the lack of wisdom, and/or activism of
a fire truck painted in rainbow colours is
the B.C. Teachers Federation, and teach-
still apparently quite a long way off.
ers within the public education system, and sex activists within all communities.”
Recruiting children? VANCOUVER—Conservative radio host Kari Simpson has filed a police complaint against Out in Schools, an anti-homopho-
plaint before it is studied.
Ottawa’s gay village OTTAWA—The idea of a designated gay
toward a one-year
village in Ottawa’s Centretown neigh-
deferral policy. The
bourhood is now being pushed by local
notification follows
Coun. Diane Holmes, who says the suc-
a U.K. announce-
cess of a recent Pride weekend shows the
ment, on September 8, about a similar
downtown area is ready for official village
policy change. Currently, Canadian Blood
status. “I think that that’s the expectation
Services and its Quebec counterpart,
for many people, that it’s appropriate to
Héma-Québec, will not accept blood from
have such a district in the nation’s capital
any man who has had sex with another
and this is the desired location,” said
man, even once, since 1977. Under the
Holmes. Pride flags and rainbow colours
proposed changes, men would be banned
have decorated Bank Street businesses for
from donating blood only if they have had
many years, but now Holmes wants some-
sex with another man any time in the pre-
thing official in writing. She is proposing
vious 12 months. The deferral would still keep out most gay men who are sexually
Police have asked her to refile her com-
new street signs to declare part of Bank St. bia program, alleging there are “serious
as Ottawa’s gay village. But not all Bank
and possibly criminal activities involved
Street businesses support the idea, claim-
with this program.” On the website of
ing the area is very diverse and does not
her newly formed advocacy group Culture
just want to be branded as a gay village.
Guard, Simpson alleges that Out in
A poll of businesses found most oppose
Schools is “designed to dupe parents and
the idea, but Holmes wants to do her own
Pretty in pink
introduce children into homosexist politics
poll of area residents and said after con-
and pornography.” Out In Schools is an
sultation she will have the final say as to
WINNIPEG—Firefighters may put out sexy
anti-homophobia program but Simpson
whether she brings the proposal to coun-
claims it uses taxpayer dollars to recruit
cil. Some business owners support her. “I
children in the public education system
think it’s a no-brainer. It has to happen
“into a sexualized culture of porn and
and it’s starting to happen,” says Robert
games of debauchery.” She claims the
Giacobbi, owner of the men’s-oriented
program’s real aim is to “dupe parents into
adult shop Wilde’s.
active, even those in monogamous relationships or those who participate only in low-risk sexual activities, such as oral sex or anal sex with a condom.
beefcake calendars, but if you see a pink fire truck in the city don’t assume the gay mafia have finally made a mass conversion. The pink truck has nothing to do with gay wishful thinking and everything to do with support for the cause of beating breast cancer. Firefighters are also selling pink T-shirts to raise money for the fight against breast cancer. Department members are hoping the bright pink truck will help them raise awareness and cash.
believing that the school is doing good work, when in fact children are being lured into a world of sex activism.” She
– Peter Carlyle-Gordge is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
strongly objects to students creating their own anti-homophobia videos, claiming it’s an example of moving children “from ob-
www.outwords.ca // outwords, november 2011
9
Many Canadians worked bravely to bring awareness to the ignorant, and stand strong as legislation ebbed and flowed, in favour and against, the cause of queer
PRIDE 25 A salute to all of us By Barb Burkowski
human rights. Government, which really means ‘us’ as a society, has transformed over the years, through the persistence of many people. We saw strong movement in the diverse cultures and orientations of Canada. We watched determined Canadians seek to keep real, our mantra of being, ‘strong and free’. We pride ourselves in being one of only a hand full of countries with rights to live our lives, with significant freedom and equality with fellow citizens. In marriage, adoption, shared benefits, and
Next year’s Pride 25, is about the people
growing inclusiveness in the education of
who were part of the City of Winnipeg, the
new generations we are both the envy and
Province of Manitoba and the Canadian
inspiration for many in the world.
human rights movement, knowingly or
In Winnipeg, we are fortunate to have
unknowingly, as members of the gay com-
leaders in the community who act publi-
munity for the last 25 years. The objective
cally, at risk of negative consequences from
of Pride 25 is realizing 25 years of advance-
family, work and society. They experience
ment, from possible exclusion from family
the sting of hate and displacement in their
and friends, to today’s equal membership
rightful space. Through the discomfort,
in society.
they remain steadfast in their quest for a place amongst others. They inspire others
10
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca
to come out. Those who have, become
are cherished today. The achievement of
ages of queers etched clearly in memories
further champions of cause, educators,
working beyond ignorance is rewarding.
as they afforded a safe sense of growing up
politicians and people in our
The result of overcoming dis-
community who all breathe
respect is positive, and oddly
the same air. There are many Winnipeggers to acknowledge for the last 25 years of truly incredible advancement: far too many to commit to print. In fact, many don’t recognize their part in the changes. They express genuine surprise when asked about their expe-
In Winnipeg, we are fortunate to have leaders in the community who act publically
riences and are somewhat humble in their part of the last few decades. But, in inviting
with ‘family’ and pursuit of self-acceptance. Are we there yet? No. While the strug-
enough, sometimes amusing,
gle for equality in the world will never end,
as stories of triumph over ad-
we are very fortunate to live in a country
versity unfold. When events
built on respect, fairness and the desire to
are recalled in these conver-
be a leader in human rights. As the future
sations, the sense of nervous
home of the Canadian Museum for Human
excitement and mischie-
Rights, our thanks goes to those who fought
vousness is passionate. This
for equality and made our city a desirable
passion drives an opportunity
location for this incredible honour. Queer
within Pride to relive and
Winnipeggers of the past 25 years and be-
celebrate the achievements of
yond who simply lived their lives believing
the last 25 years. Most stories include reference to past
they were worthy of equality, gift our future queer leaders, inspiring them to lead in an
their perspective on Pride 25, thoughts of
locales and old haunts integral in the
the past stir and opens their personal reality
origin of many relationships, good times
to the part they play in our journey.
and memories as part of 25 years. With
lutes you and says thanks on behalf of oth-
unspoken reminiscence creeping across
ers for your strength and tenacity, and your
their faces, a few affectionately mentioned
contribution to our lives. Because of you,
ing and sad. The stories rise from difficult
such meeting places as: The Women’s
we celebrate.
and lonely times but also uncover times of
Building, The Cha Cha Palace, The Mount
Conversations with mature community members bring stories both interest-
empowerment, recognition and discov-
Royal, YMCA, Heartland, Giovanni’s/Gio’s
ery. Many personal relationships devel-
(OWMS), Happenings (x2 locations), Ms.
oped from congruent experiences and the
Purdy’s, Club 200, the odd department
sharing fear and pain. These friendships
store. These are comfort zones of many
equal society. This year, Pride Winnipeg Festival sa-
– Barb Burkowski is the chair of the Winnipeg Pride Committee.
www.outwords.ca // outwords, november 2011
11
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Transgender Day Of Remembrance A Time To Honour, A Time To Celebrate By Ryan Furber
The truth is, this is a long, hard, compli-
moving in unison to a goal we’re trying
cated process. It’s a last resort, and to begin
to achieve has been powerful; to be in a
hormones you need to have extensive coun-
room where things don’t need to be said
selling. For surgery you need to be approved by psychiatrists in most
When we think of hate crimes against trans-
places. It’s something
gender people, the first thing that comes to
that can be treated and
mind is usually gay/trans bashing. We often
in all cases that move
think of the movie Boys Don’t Cry or about
forward into transition,
the many transgender people who’ve been
it is a necessity. In most
murdered when it was discovered they’d
cases hormones and
transitioned.
surgeries are an alterna-
Another thing people think about is the
tive to suicide. Many
because you’re understood; to
Every person … is holding love, strength and compassion for the people we’ve lost, the people suffering, the people fighting for us and every person in that crowd
be in a place where you can say it anyway; to be in a place of safety. These are imperative to one’s wellbeing on every level. If you’re at an event on Trans Day of Remembrance, look around you. Every person in that crowd is holding love, strength and compassion for the people we’ve lost, the people suffering, the
advocacy many of us do. Many of us have
people have commit-
advocated to Medical Services Plan here
ted suicide. They may
in British Columbia for surgeries. I’ve filed
have lost families, jobs, been denied basic
energy, draw strength from it, be a part of
human rights complaints. I have friends
health care by ignorant health-care provid-
it, contribute to it.
who have fought harrowing lawsuits. One
ers, perhaps even denied the opportunity to
acquaintance of mine was recently denied
transition.
life insurance because he’s transitioned. A
Something else that has created a home
people fighting for us and every person in that crowd. Feel that
One definition of ‘Remember’ is ‘To Honour’. So on November 20 while we think of those we’ve lost, let’s also think of
friend of mine had complications from his
in my head and heart, are the people in
those who have survived and continue to
top surgery and when the ambulance at-
countries that have no equal rights. Those
fight such an incredible battle. Commend
tendants arrived at his home, they pro-
countries where someone can be executed,
yourselves for staying true to yourselves.
ceeded to tell him that the complications
imprisoned without trial and brutally tor-
They can bash your body but they can’t
were his own fault. The attendants told him
tured for being gay or transsexual. I have
bash your spirit and who you are. Those
that because he wanted the surgery that
friends who have escaped places like Iran
who didn’t make it live on in us and every
he’d done it to himself. They considered it
and the horror they’ve lived through is
time our voices are heard, their voices are
self-mutilation.
unspeakable. It’s stories like those that make
heard.
Many of us think about that unfortu-
me reflect on where I am, and leaves me
nate common misconception that still runs
thankful to be in a country where people
rampant, that we’ve somehow “chosen”
like us have a voice.
this; that we’ve somehow just “walked in off the street” and decided to change our sex.
Ryan Furber is a Vancouver-based freelance writer.
A very important piece to remember also, is community. To see other people www.outwords.ca // outwords, november 2011
13
Lights, Camera . . We don’t normally think of shows like Dancing With The Stars (DWTS) as being on the cutting edge of a social revolution, but that’s not the way some viewers and critics see it. This season, Chaz Bono, the transgender son of Sonny and Cher, is one of the contestants… – along with dancing partner Lacey
put on the show, we’ve had, I think now,
GLBT community to seek help from a
Schwimmer – on the ABC TV show.
three transgender or gay contestants. If
Christian counsellor.
What’s revolutionary about that? Plenty,
that’s a homosexual agenda, we’re not
according to hundreds of people who
doing very well at it.”
posted hostile messages on ABC’s mes-
shows, said Bono’s presence on DWTS
sage board accusing DWTS of having a
activist website onemillionmoms.com,
“will encourage kids to want to change
homosexual agenda. Viewers said they
which bills itself as against filth in the me-
their own genders.” This is the same
were “disgusted” or that DWTS was
dia and is a ministry of American Family
man who criticized designer Jenna Lyons
“flaunting” a transgender lifestyle.
Association, urged members to boycott
for publishing an advertisement in the
the show and its sponsors. “They made
J. Crew catalogue with a photo of her
Reporter, DWTS executive producer Con-
a platform for the LGBT Community,”
painting her young son’s toenails hot
rad Green called the charges unfounded
the group says on its website. “Christians
pink. Ablow claimed painting a child’s
and tried to put an end to the contro-
should not watch the show, no excuses!”
toenails pink could have an effect on their
versy. “We don’t have an agenda of any
It then goes on to describe homosexual-
gender identity.
sorts. I think of the 120 celebrities we’ve
ity as a sin and urges members of the
In an interview with the Hollywood
14 15
That didn’t end the controversy. The
Psychiatrist Keith Ablow, who is a regular on Fox News and other TV talk
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca
Bono (born Chastity Bono) is ac-
didn’t think censorship was a command-
Ablow’s perspective seems to suggest
customed to publicity and said he was
ment but perhaps I misread them,” Mills
that “transgendered people are avoid-
just excited about dancing on DWTS.
says with a laugh.
able, that if you encounter someone in
As far as he was concerned, there was
Herndon Graddick, senior director of
your life that has transitioned, whether
no attempt to promote anything except
programs for GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Al-
mentally, physically or surgically, it’s OK
good dancing. “I think my participation
liance Against Defamation), says Bono is
and perfectly socially acceptable to push
on DWTS continues to show America that
being a positive role model on the show.
them away,” Dawiskiba-Clark says. Mills
being transgender is OK,” Bono says in a
“At a time when transgender representa-
is equally critical: “Considering gender
Q&A on the DWTS website. “I’m happy
tion in the media is sorely lacking, Chaz
identity disorder isn’t his specialty and
in my body for the first time and so ex-
Bono joining the cast is a tremendous
the American Psychological Association
cited to be challenging myself in this way.
step forward for the public to recognize
(APA) has dismissed his claims, I don’t see
And I’m looking forward to dancing as
that transgender people are another
any credibility behind his words. Educat-
a man with one of the incredible female
wonderful part of the fabric of American
ing our youth on transgender issues isn’t
dance pros on DWTS and learning all I
culture,” Graddick said in a statement.
going to make them any more likely to
can.”
While some homophobes ranted
claim a transgender identity – a tomboy
Bonique Dawiskiba-Clark, the su-
about how they were offended by Bono’s
pervisor of the Winnipeg YMCA’s special
presence on the show, Ablow dressed up
needs afterschool teen program, and Ro
his homophobia in feigned concern for
cally portray trans characters. Are we
Mills, the director of the University of
youngsters. “Young viewers will include
seeing the beginning of a revolution?
Winnipeg’s LGBTT* Centre and a psychol-
tomboyish girls and sensitive, less stere-
“Because this is being blown out of pro-
ogy major, are out trans-men who have
otypically ‘masculine’ boys. They will also
portion, it’s causing a bit of a revolution
is just a tomboy.” The media is only starting to realisti-
. Controversy
By Chandra Dupuis
experienced some of the unwarranted
include children who have sustained the
in the media,” says Dawiskiba-Clark. “Be-
hostility Chaz is facing. “My first initial
losses of loved ones and are wrestling
cause everybody can’t stop talking about
reaction to the Chaz Bono controversy
with depression, perhaps wondering who
the negatives, People cry out in support
was – what controversy?” Dawiskiba-
they are absent their deceased mothers
for the positives.” Mills says, “Ellen said it
Clark says. “In most news reports or
or fathers,” Ablow wrote in an editorial
best – ‘Really? There is a lot of stuff going
comments on the subject, it’s people
aired by Fox.
on in the world right now and is this the
with titles spewing their own agendas
“I advise parents to not allow their
most important thing that we should be
and hateful opinions.” Mills finds the
children to watch the episodes in which
reaction to Chaz’s appearance on DWTS
Chaz appears,” Ablow continued. “The
Ellen goes on to jokingly make a
unsettling. “Chaz is just appearing on a
last thing vulnerable children and ado-
strong point – “Sometimes people reject
stage without a voice and is simply par-
lescents need, as they wrestle with the
things that they don’t understand and
ticipating, as would any other contestant.
normal process of establishing their
I don’t understand algebra but that
Dancing with the Stars has a very diverse
identities, is to watch a captive crowd
doesn’t mean it’s wrong.”
audience and here they are given no con-
in a studio audience applaud on cue for
text in which to base their judgments on
someone whose search for an identity
viewer’s hand. Whether you choose to
trans-people.”
culminated with the removal of her
hit your parental lock to block out Chaz
breasts, the injection of steroids and,
Bono or tune in every week is up to you.
Dawiskiba-Clark and Mills challenge onemillionmoms.com’s assetion that
perhaps one day soon, the fashioning of a
Bono’s participation on the TV show will
make-shift phallus to replace her vagina.”
“promote this destructive lifestyle.” “I
talking about?’”
Ultimately the remote is in the
– Chandra Dupuis is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
www.outwords.ca // outwords, november 2011
15
“As a queer person, I am my work and my work is queer. But I think even straight people can have a queer perspective. We’re so encouraged to define who we are and stake it, but we can’t know that, we can only try to understand it.”
16 17
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca
By Katrina Caudle
The queer work of Daniel MacIvor From the first time Daniel MacIvor per-
MacIvor was raised in a religious home
MacIvor’s next piece is an autobio-
formed in his first play, he felt like he’d
and has come to see the parallels of reli-
graphical one-man show to be performed
found the place he belonged. “I feel lucky
gious experience to life on the stage. “The
in Edmonton. After that, he will be perform-
to be doing this. I always felt a little out of
actor is kind of like a priest, the stage an
ing in The Best Brothers, a play about two
the world,” MacIvor says. “If I had woken
altar. Theatre shines a light on situations
brothers fighting over their dead mother’s
up as a child and found aliens by my bed
and has a metaphysical effect on life. It does
dog. He recently closed a show called Bingo
saying ‘we’ve come to take you home to
something chemical. Some people have
that ran at Prairie Theatre Exchange. The
your home planet’, I wouldn’t have been
religion and I have theatre.”
play took its title from a drinking game
surprised.” Hailing from Nova Scotia, MacIvor, who
The roots of theatre historically link the
played by the graduates of a small-town
performance art to the sacred and like any
high school at their reunion. The stories that
has been working in theatre for 25 years,
good religion MacIvor’s thespian experi-
MacIvor weaves come from the everyday
found his passion while attending Dalhou-
ence provides him with a centring per-
occurrences that strike him.
sie University. As he describes it, he sort of
spective outside the race of modern daily
slipped and fell into theatre.”Even though I
life. “When people are talking to me, I’m
should be asking questions. I don’t think
was a very theatrical child, I never went to
listening to what they’re really saying. Life’s
anything is definite. I’m looking for the
the theatre before,” he says. “It wasn’t
a crazy game and we’re stuck in the middle
question in everything. One-hundred per
the kind of passtime that was an option
of it. I don’t look forward to days off. I’m
cent of me goes into my shows, and then
in my home.”
better working then not working. We’re
I spend the time trying to remove it. The
encouraged to believe that we should have
ones I think are less like me end up being
playwright, actor, producer, and direc-
work and our real life. If you can find work
the most like me,” he says. “The beauty is
tor who has toured internationally.
that sustains us emotionally and spirituality
in the flow. We’re striving to be perfect but
that’s a good life.”
the space between perfect and not per-
Since then, MacIvor has become a
He is one of Canada’s best-known playwrights, having won many
MacIvor came out in the ‘80s and from
“We’re looking for answers, when we
fect -- that’s where we really live. The real
awards including the Governor
his perspective, queer is less a matter of
beauty of who I am is where I fall down, not
General’s award for drama in
what you do with your genitals or your
where I stand up.”
2006. “I’m always happier in the
heart, but how you live. “As a queer person,
theatre than the world,” he says.
I am my work and my work is queer. But I
“Nature I get; the world not so
think even straight people can have a queer
much. Theatre is an opportunity
perspective. We’re so encouraged to define
to create authenticity in an artifi-
who we are and stake it, but we can’t know
cial life.”
that, we can only try to understand it.”
Katrina Caudle is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
www.outwords.ca // outwords, november 2011
17
The
genesis of Kevin Keller By RACHEL MORGAN Fans of the Archie comics have had an especially interesting year. The introduction of a gay character, Kevin Keller, took the venerable series to a whole new level. Regular readers had fun watching Veronica making a fool of herself, trying to get the new guy in Riverdale to like her. Only Jughead knew his secret and was quite happy to watch all the confusion that ensued. Well, Kevin proved so popular, he got his own fourpart mini-series in the summer. Creator Dan Parent wrote and illustrated the series, which focused on Kevin’s journey before coming out to his friends and family. Outwords asked Parent about the genesis of Kevin Keller. The answers are fun and a little surprising.
Things will never be the same in Riverdale Q. Introducing a gay character would seem Q. Was there unanimous support for
straight community loves Kevin, too. He is part of the family now after all!
to be a bold step for a comic series that has
introducing a gay character within Archie
traditionally appealed to Middle America
Comics? How did you resolve any differ-
Q. How have you dealt with readers and
(and many Canadians) - how did you and
ences of opinion?
others who oppose Kevin Keller?
the people at Archie Comics come to the
A. The Archie team was all for it, especially
decision to take this step?
CEP John Goldwater, who really nurtured
A. I had the idea of a story where Veronica
A. By ignoring them. Q. What persuaded you to launch a new
the introduction of Kevin. He saw the im-
series featuring Kevin Keller?
is chasing this guy who is seemingly unin-
portance of a character like Kevin, and was 100 per cent supportive all the way.
A. Well, the positive feedback and good
terested in her (because he’s gay). At the same time, the powers that be at Archie
Q. What preparations did you make for
were discussing adding new characters and
negative reactions from readers, religious
more diversity to the Archie universe. So my
organizations, retailers and politicians?
story idea seemed like a good fit. Hence the
A. If you do what you believe is the right
arrival of kevin Keller.
thing, you can’t look back. There will always
Q. What options did you consider during
be critics, but we know what we’re doing.
the process in deciding how to portray a
We’ve been doing this for 70 years. We
gay character? In other words, how gay
know our audience. Most support Kevin and
could he be? What kind of person would
know the world of Riverdale as the heartfelt
he be?
place it is.
A. The main thing was Kevin had to be a
Q. What was the reaction from readers -
positive portrayal of a gay character and the
GLBT and otherwise?
story had to follow the classic format of an
A. Overwhelmingly positive. Of course
Archie story.
the GLBT support has been great, but the
sales of his first appearances in Veronica certainly didn’t hurt!
Q. What special marketing are you doing for this series (different from the other Archie series)?
A. From my side, I just handle the creative stuff. The marketing side is up to Archie, which they’ve done a beautiful job on.
Q. Would you consider romantic relationships for Kevin in future issues?
A. For sure! Q. What kinds of adventures and relationships can readers expect him to get into?
A. Let’s just say awkward dates are funny, gay or straight!
Q. Can readers expect to see other GLBT characters in the Kevin Keller series or in the established Archie series?
A. That’s a possibility. As Kevin’s story continues. Stay tuned! – Rachel Morgan is editor of Outwords.
connection coach
Dealing with Difficult People
Brad tyler-west
If it hasn’t happened
...as my Grandmother used to say, “commonsense is not always common practice”
“I” messages: When confronting someone about their behaviour, using “I”
into a shouting match over who used their
You will find yourself
messages helps to minimize the feeling of
Splenda – while another worker refuses to
working with a dif-
being attacked. Rather than saying, “You
confront the person who spreads highly
ficult person. When it
were totally rude to me and made me feel
offensive and untrue rumours about them
comes to thriving in
horrible,” say “I feel badly when you talk
around the workplace. Talk to an objective
the world at work, you
to me that way, “ or, “I feel uncomfortable
third party to see if your reaction is ap-
have to learn some
when you tell jokes like that around me.”
propriate to the difficult incident that you
basic skills in human
Conflict is OK: A lot of people have
have to talk about.
interaction. These
negative images in their mind maps when
basic skills might be
it comes to conflict. Some are even conflict
ently used in our workplaces we just might
seen to some as com-
With these basic skills being consist-
adverse – meaning they will do almost
see common sense become common
mon sense. Yet as my grandmother used to
anything and take almost any treatment to
practice.
say, ”commonsense is not always common
keep the peace. Conflict is a healthy part of
practice.”
life. It is by conflict that we grow. Our mus-
During the last decade, as a human
Next time, we will chat about what to do, when you are the difficult person!
cles get stronger as they are stressed and
resource professional I have seen the use
conflicted with external pressure, recover
– Brad Tyler-West, CHRP, is a Senior Human
of these basic skills decline in the world
and rebuild. We become wiser then our
Resource Consultant and connection coach.
of work. While it is true, that many of
old ideals conflict with new information,
those who don’t seem to have these basic
teaching us new ways of being. By
skills are, shall we say, “a certain age,” the
learning the conflict is OK, we
younger generations do not corner the
give ourselves permission
market on the lack of commonsense and
to have those conversa-
understanding when dealing with a co-
tions that matter with
worker or customer who presses the angry
our co-workers and
button.
colleagues.
I am going to focus on dealing with
Not all con-
colleagues and co-workers in this column.
flict is created
Not everybody “does life “the same way as
equal: Some
you: As human beings we often think other
conflicts are
people approach things in basically the
minor and can
same way. We don’t. What might seem like
be ignored or
a slight to you is perfectly
dealt with by a
OK with another. Try to find out, the
brief conversa-
“why” behind the person’s actions. Ask-
tion, while others
ing someone to explain to you what was
are more signifi-
happening for them when such and such
cant and need
occurred is a better then saying, “What the
to be dealt with
heck were you thinking?”
accordingly. Too often co- work-
20 21
ers get into an argument that escalates
already, it is going too.
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca
Out on the right and the left by Nancy Renwick
It’s now been seven years since the canadian lgbt community earned full legal equality, getting the golden ring of equal marriage. In the years since then, no
are pro-gay rights and anti-abortion
Chicken Little, the sky has not fallen.
coupling of the GLBT rights movement
Heterosexual marriage has not disinte-
from the broader civil and social rights
grated and straight women haven’t left
movement.
their hubbies en masse for the woman
is increasing. The traditional image of queers and our supporters is pro-womrights. This could be the start of the un-
One the one hand it’s an empowering thought: a Conservative cabinet
pened: equal marriage was legalized in
minister coming out and being accepted
more U.S. states, including New York.
as a gay man. That would change a few
Canada elected a Conservative majority
closed minds. Two moms with a white
that hasn’t yet repealed the law and two
picket fence, a Volvo and membership in
openly gay candidates faced off in the
the PTA. Cowboys fighting gun control
provincial election and their sexuality
laws, Brokeback Mountain where Jack
wasn’t an issue. For a 14-year-old grow-
and Ennis get married. But anti-feminist queers? A pro -war
been able to marry his boyfriend, Todd.
GLBT community? Gays and lesbians
Welcome to a brave new world.
that wouldn’t stand up for equality for
A recent blog commented about
others? Is that what our community will
a conference on the Vietnam War that
become? Or has that always been there
the war has moved from the realm of
in the community, but been silenced by
contemporary memory to history. Viet-
the orthodoxy of the GLBT movement as
nam ended 35 years, and three foreign
a whole.
wars ago. It’s our fathers’, or grandfa-
There’s the Dykes to Watch out for
thers’ war. This generation studies the
strip from the early 2000s in which a
Cold war and the fall of the Berlin Wall
lesbian Republican faces the dilemma
in history classes and has always lived in
that if she goes to queer events wearing
the shadow of extra (in)security and the
a “W” (George W. Bush) T-shirt she’s
paranoia of the twin towers.
chased out as a fascist. If she goes to a
In some ways, the modern Canadian
Republican event with a “Queer Nation”
GLBT movement is moving into similar
shirt she gets booted out as a pervert.
territory. Gay sex was legalized in 1969.
Are we moving to a point where she can
HIV/AIDS is still a threat, but not the vir-
be fully out in both contexts?
tual death sentence it was in the 1980s.
enticing
en’s rights and progressive on minority
next door. A few things have hap-
ing up today, uncle Kevin has always
beautiful powerful
Events like the fall of the Berlin wall,
Coming out is still difficult, more so in
9/11 and Vietnam changed our world in
some of the more conservative areas of
ways we’re still figuring out, even as the
the country. But we’ve had our Berlin
moments themselves turn into history.
Wall moment and are now trying to
These days the GLBT rights movement
navigate turning a world of legal equal-
is figuring out what the legacy of equal
ity into one of full social inclusiveness.
marriage will be.
So now what? An interesting survey came out in August in the United States
– Nancy Renwick is a Winnipeg-based
that showed the number of people who
freelance writer.
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Apple’s iPhone 4S technology
One Step Forward, Two Steps Back
Corey Shefman
“iCloud will make iOS devices wire-free, you’ll be able to sync everything”
At the beginning
Except that, whoops, according to reports released at the time this article went
parts of the iPhone 4S is iOS 5, Apple’s
new CEO Tim Cook
to press, Siri isn’t going to be included on
newest iPhone operating system. iOS 5
announced a new
the iPhone 4S in Canada.
brings pull-down notifications to iOS (like
iPhone, creatively
The one truly exciting announcement
those standard on Android phones). You’ll
titled the iPhone
is the release of iOS 5 (which will be avail-
also get iMessage, an iOS to iOS messag-
4S. The difference
able for the iPhone 4 and third and fourth
ing app, like the BBM service available to
between the 4S and
generation iPod Touch, not just the iPhone
BlackBerry users. O
the iPhone 4? A faster
4S). iOS 5, Apple’s newest mobile operat-
processor and a somewhat improved cam-
ing system, will be one of the biggest
era. Unfortunately, the camera is still not
changes Apple has made to the operating
good enough to replace your stand-alone
system since it was first released. Probably
digital camera and the faster processor is
the most exciting change is iCloud, which
still hampered by the fact that your screen
will make iOS devices “wire-free”. In other
is only 3.5 inches.
words, you’ll be able to sync everything
the only true breakthrough with the iPhone 4S is the voice control technology What happened, Apple? Despite speculation of an iPhone 5, with a new capacitive (touch-sensitive) home button replac-
– calendar, music, apps, over Wi-Fi. No more plugging your iPod or iPhone into your computer and syncing iTunes. So should you get the
iPhone 4S? Not unless your current phone’s game catalogue includes Snake.
ing the traditional round physical button,
Meet the iPhone 4S
rumoured to have a 4-inch screen, thinner
Design: On the outside, the iPhone 4S
and lighter than the previous iPhone, we seem to be stuck in 2009. The only true breakthrough with the iPhone 4S is the voice control technology Apple calls Siri. Described as a “personal assistant”, which uses “natural language processing”, Siri is truly a revolution in computer interfaces (assuming that it works as described). Siri will call a cab for you, make a restaurant reservation, get you directions, check you in for your flight and just about anything else that can be done over the internet.
is identical to the iPhone 4, although Apple appears to have fixed the antenna malfunctions which the iPhone 4 suffered from. The screen remains 3.5 inches with
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca
Steve Jobs, the Apple founder and former CEO who invented and masterfully marketed ever-sleeker gadgets that transformed everyday technology, from the personal computer to the iPod and iPhone, died October 5. He was 56. Jobs had battled cancer in 2004 and un-
last year’s ‘Retina’ display.
derwent a liver transplant in 2009.
Under the Hood: The iPhone 4S is
“Steve’s brilliance, passion and
powered by the iPad’s A5 processor. Sig-
energy were the source of count-
nificantly more powerful than the previous
less innovations that enrich and
iPhone, the new processor shows of its
improve all of our lives,” Apple’s
power best when using power-draining
board said in a statement. “The
apps such as games. The iPhone 4S also
world is immeasurably better be-
contains an 8MP digital camera, on par
cause of Steve.”
with stand-alone digital cameras from about 2004.
22 23
Software: One of the few truly exciting
of October, Apple’s
Ryan Rawluk Certified General Accountant PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION
738 Osborne Street Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 2C2 (204)414-9026 ryan@rawlukcga.ca
Small Business Consulting Financial Statement Preparation Tax Return Preparation www.rawlukga.ca
www.outwords.ca // outwords, november 2011
23
Cycling in winter is dumb.
Think again living green Alana LajoieO’Malley
“...the biggest problem I had biking last winter was my own anger”
It is coming up to (or
– most of us sleep indoors, work indoors,
there by the gas pedal. And this isn’t just
is it already?) that time
eat indoors, and commute ‘indoors’ to get
true for people who have all kinds of fancy
of year when most
to a gym where we can ride a pretend bike
gear. A pair of very good mittens is really
cyclists retire their
or pretend ski machine or pretend hiking
all you need. But don’t take my word for
rides for the season.
trail indoors. I once heard an avid cyclist
it – try it for yourself.
Understandable, I
in Winnipeg say, “I hate to exercise. That’s
suppose. One doesn’t
why I ride my bike.” Yep.
exactly associate
most of us sleep indoors, work indoors, eat indoors, and commute indoors to get to a gym where we can ride a pretend bike
snow-packed streets with leisurely bike rides to work. Still, I can’t help but notice that every year there seem
3 Winter cycling is way less dangerous than it looks. Seriously. It just takes a bit of smart route planning and riding – stick to the major thoroughfares as much as possible, and slow right down on the side streets.
to be more people on two wheels through
2 Cycling is a great way to keep warm in
When I used to watch those nutcases
the winter. It beats walking hands down,
speeding along Osborne on a cold January
I saved about $350 in bus fare (so what
it trumps shivering at bus stops, and your
morning, I was convinced that they had
is that... like $700 if I had been driving?);
feet don’t freeze up the way they do down
a death wish. But it turns out that in the
the snowy months. Last winter, I decided to give it a go.
saved hours of time waiting at bus stops or
winter, cyclists really take advantage of the
trudging along un-cleared sidewalks; got
traces cars leave behind. While quiet side
lots of great exercise and fresh air; and
streets can often end up slushy, icy death
hey, I learned a few things about why
traps, those big wide streets end up
winter cycling in Winnipeg actually
bare for most of the winter. All
makes a lot of sense. Here hey are:
the cars melt the ice (thanks cars!), and on snowy days
1 Winter cycling gets you moving and outside. I heard once years ago that on average, we spend less than six per cent of our lives outside. Six percent!!! Think about it, though
24 25 24
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca
they’re the first to get ploughed. I’ll admit it – it wasn’t all rosy. To my surprise, the hardest
part about my first winter on a bike was dealing with road rage. Mine. More days than I’d like to admit, my early morning rides to my yoga studio became enraging meditations on how car-centric we still are. Sidewalks and bike routes piled high with snow. The odd driver yelling profanities or honking at me (Drivers – please don’t do this. It is very dangerous. It startles cyclists and risks making us swerve right into traffic). I’d arrive at my yoga studio ready to go off on the first person who would engage me in a conversation about urban design for active transportation. But I figure that if the biggest problem I had biking last winter was my own anger, there are more reasons to give it another go than not. I’ll work on my attitude, and hope that more people take advantage of resources like the UWSA Bike Lab and Natural Cycle to learn about winterizing their bikes so that the whole idea gets just a little more normal every year. – Alana Lajoie-O’Malley is the director of the Campus Sustainability Office at The University of Winnipeg.
A Judy Garland Christmas: Songs My Mother Taught Me Starring Lorna Luft FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9 I 8:00 PM SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 I 8:00 PM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11 I 2:00 PM Born to legendary entertainer Judy Garland and producer Sid Luft, Lorna Luft has had an acclaimed career encompassing virtually every arena of entertainment. A celebrated live performer, stage, film and television actress, bestselling author, recording artist and Emmy -nominated producer – she continues to triumph in every medium with critics labelling her one of the most vibrant, versatile and exciting artists on stage today. At age 11, she made her television debut singing on her mother’s series, “The Judy Garland Show.” Since then, Lorna has had starring roles in both television and film. Colin Freeman, conductor Lorna Luft, performer
Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire
Man that Got Away Have Yourself a
Smile
Merry Little Christmas
Somewhere Over the Rainbow ...and so much more
Tickets available at the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and all Ticketmaster outlets WSO Box Office
949-3999 www.wso.ca I 1-855-985-ARTS
A vampire story from the heart
By Katrina Caudle
Michael Rowe mines the darkness within After 30 years away, journalist Michael Rowe
tions to the genre. Rowe has been credited for changing
will be returning to the Prairies to present his
the shape of horror by having queer characters whose
first novel - Enter, Night. Rowe, who has been
sexuality is simply a part of a narrative, as opposed to
all over the world for his journalism career, spent four years at St. John’s in Selkirk and considers the Prairies one of the most influential places he’s ever stayed. “It taught me a real appreciation for the beauty of
with a heart condition, it caused him to re-assess what he wanted from life. “I’ve done a lot of work in queer journalism in the U.S. and Canada. I
forward to coming home.”
wanted to write some-
Rowe has spent his career working ten for the Advocate, the National Post, Huffington Post, released two essay collections and penned the critically-acclaimed book Writing Below the Belt, a study of censorship, erotica and popular culture. He’s also edited the Queer Fear gay horror collections and been called groundbreaking for his contribu-
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca Photo by rafy
his successes two years ago when Rowe was diagnosed
nature,” Rowe says. “I’m really looking
mostly in the realm of non-fiction. He’s writ-
26 27
being used as for shock value or a plot device. Despite
thing fun. I guess it had been ges-
“I’ve done a lot of work in queer journalism in the U.S. and Canada. I wanted to write something fun”
www.outwords.ca // outwords, november 2011
27
tating for a while. I decided to take some
be a metaphor for the interpersonal dy-
time off to do this,” Rowe says. “It’s a whole
namics between people, something which
different kind of writing. I wondered why
Rowe, from his work in social issues and
there wasn’t a more solid body of work in
being very heavily involved in the lives of his
Canadian horror literature. Amidst the twin-
friends and family, deeply understands.
kling and sparkling, there’s a rich body of a myth and literature to work with.” Enter, Night is about old-school vampires. It’s the story of returning to the
I envy the younger generation… Manitoba in the ‘70s was not a good place to be gay.
remote northern Ontario town of Parr’s Landing and the 300-year-old darkness that’s been waiting there. It’s a town of secrets, built on the site of a 17th-century
“Queer issues are becoming part of our cultural landscape. I envy the younger generation. It’s exciting they will grow up in a different culture. Manitoba in the ‘70s was
Horror does not exist in isolation. You have to experience the loss of hope.
to be gay. I did a lot of research on aversion therapy. People commented on how scary it was in the context of the story, but it was a very real practice. Take 1969
Jesuit mission to the Ojibway. It’s a horror story that returns
and compare it to where we are today - it’s
just having it be a part of the story. It can’t
us to a time before cell phones and the
astounding.”
be artificial, it just has to flow. If you’re go-
Internet to the wildness of Canada, where
Rowe says he feels the shock value and
ing to be a writer who is queer (or a queer
the sleeping horror is calling out and a man,
groundbreaking elements of writing queer
writer, which is a whole other topic) you
committed to the resurrection of the ages-
stories will lessen for younger writers “The
have to square your shoulders and stand in
old evil brings the town and its people into
marketing of queer literature is a marketing
the doorway and say these are my stories.
darkness.
ploy. If a book is marketed under fiction, it’s
“As writers, all we can do is put our
considered fiction. If it’s marketed as a GLBT
stories out there as we see them and hope
have to experience the loss of hope. The
story, the same story is considered a niche
the world hears what we’re saying. Editors
vampires of the book are literally vampires,
novel,” he says.
and publishers take their cues from authors.
“Horror does not exist in isolation. You
but in a way they can be seen as a meta-
“Being accepted and celebrated for be-
If an author is shy or bashful about it, they
phor for homophobia and exploitation of
ing well written is the goal at the end of the
can tell. My experience has been that we
the land. One of the heroes is a native
day. In Enter, Night, one of the characters
shape the way our own writing is read. To
professor of anthropology. Part of his story
is openly gay and another is a closet case.
borrow from the aids activists of old - I’m
involves the residential school system,
Interactions between them is an example of
here, I’m queer, get used to it. You have to
overcoming that, and going back to the
one guy that got away from the town and
say this is part of the package. It’s not up to
small town who considers him the same as
became fulfilled as a gay man and one who
me to help you accept it.”
before.”
didn’t and became a parody of this macho,
Michael Rowe will launch Enter, Night at
straight cop. Queer stuff is seen as niche
McNally Robinson Booksellers on November
enjoyment than some of his more serious
stuff. You have these straight women writ-
10 at 7 p.m. in the travel alcove.
work, Rowe’s ability to cause us to reflect
ing gay male romances and it seems tinny.
thoughtfully on the world around us carries
Bless them, everyone has to make a living
through. The vampires in the novel can also
but it strikes me as counter art. The trick is
Even if Enter, Night is meant more for
28
not a good place
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca
– Katrina Caudle is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
Scott Bagshaw is crazy busy off menu
It’s the end of a
Donnelly at Segovia offers much more
kenton smith
long, busy night for
traditional tapas,” he says. Bagshaw’s ap-
celebrated chef Scott
proach involves a conflation of influence
Bagshaw, who is
– not just Spanish, but Italian and French,
sweeping his kitchen
too. It’s not fusion, Bagshaw emphasizes,
at Deseo before he can
but a case of using different elements “for
“it’s not hard to understand the worship, when you taste the likes of his small plates”
go home.“It’s been
my own purposes.” It comes back to “what
pretty crazy tonight,”
tastes good, and what works in the dish.”
he says with a grin.
Let’s take those chorizo and figs: the
“One slow night would
defining ingredients may be staples of
be a nice change.”
Spanish cooking, but then Bagshaw applies
It’s been exactly two weeks from open-
a defining French principle: butter, butter and more butter. The house-made gnocchi,
“having more good restaurants only helps evolve the dining scene”
ing night when we take a seat inside Deseo
in place of Spanish dumplings, is cooked
on South Osborne, the latest venture of the
in the same, luxurious stuff. “We also offer
Alejandro Mora – whom Bagshaw credits
conspicuously tattooed Bagshaw. Even with
mains here,” Bagshaw adds. “Some people
as being the restaurant’s true “visionary” –
the sweat cascading off him, he looks en-
seem more down with mixing mains and
snagged the former location of Vesuvio res-
ergized, not tired, cutting a lean, youthful
small plates.”
taurant, in all its warm, brick-walled glory.
figure at age 37.
The road to the new and improved
“It was perfect,” Bagshaw says. “And
Deseo has been turbulent: Bagshaw
the potential as far as the whole neighbour-
terrupt to shower Bagshaw with flattery.
grabbed all the wrong headlines last year,
hood went was clearly there with Bistro 7
Later, some shots arrive – compliments of
after being fired from Gusto. The dismissal
¼ just down the street. There’s no sense of
Bagshaw’s own customers. If any chef in
came after an interview he gave for The
competition. We have different clienteles
Winnipeg can boast of celebrity status, the
Last Crumb, a locally-published book about
anyway, but in the bigger picture having
former chef of Pizzeria Gusto is one. And
Winnipeg chefs, in which Bagshaw cheer-
more good restaurants only helps evolve
it’s not hard to understand the worship,
fully described the sailor talk atmosphere
the dining scene more.”
when you taste the likes of his small plates
of some of his former kitchens – which in-
of chorizo and figs: cleaning the rich sauce
cluded making raunchy jokes about female
several years ago, after gaining valuable
from the dish with grilled bread, a single
patrons.
kitchen experience in Australia, Bagshaw
Then the diners at the next table in-
word from your dining partner comes as a
He quickly rebounded as chef at St.
When he came back to Winnipeg
says the food scene in Winnipeg “was really
Boniface eatery La Vielle Gare – re-branded
in the Dark Ages. Since then, there’s been
Resto Gare – before finally opening Deseo
a massive food revolution; the hole that
Bagshaw says with a smile, encapsulat-
at the Royal Albert in 2010. “Tapas had
was there for hungry young chefs has been
ing his basic food philosophy. For those
been tried several times in Winnipeg,
filled.”
who eagerly partook of it at Deseo’s initial
including at the former Diablo’s in the
location, however – at the Royal Albert
Exchange,” Bagshaw says. “But I felt like it
some further misfortune, to be moving on
Arms hotel in the Exchange District – will
could be done better.”
anytime soon. “I can’t imagine another
rude interruption. “I just want to make good food,”
discover that Bagshaw, has made some
What actually “opened the door”
Nor can we expect Bagshaw, barring
job,” he says. “This is a career that has few
tweaks. “We started with more Latin and
for Deseo, Bagshaw continues, was the
guidelines, per se. I can swear at work, and
Mexican-influenced dishes,” he says. “Per-
fantastic success of Segovia. Despite good
I don’t have to shave – I just have to cook.”
sonally, though, I didn’t feel as comfortable
reviews and business, however, Bagshaw’s
cooking that.”
latest effort also went to pot after a wa-
Nor has Bagshaw quite turned wholehog to classical Spanish influences. “Adam
termain break in the basement. Thankfully, Bagshaw and his business partner,
– Kenton Smith is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
www.outwords.ca // outwords, november 2011
29
section header
GLBT Resource Directory
SOCIAL SUPPORT Rainbow Resource Centre: Rainbow Resource Centre (RRC): 170 Scott St. Phone: 474.0212. E-mail: info@rainbowresoucecentre.org Web: rainbowresourcecentre.org. Counselling intake: 452.7508. Peer Support: 284.5208 or 1.888.399.0005.
Rainbow Link – free LGBT material for libraries and LGBT groups www.RainbowLink.ca
Dreamcatchers: Weekly therapeutic group for women and transgenders contemplating leaving the sex trade. Call 784-4065.
Rainbow Pride Mosaic: GLBT resource centre at U of M, e-mail umrpm@umsu.ca . Web: umsu. ca/rainbowpride.
Fort Garry Women’s Resource Centre: Feminist organization. Information/counselling. 1150-A Waverley St. 477-1123, www.fgwrc.ca
Rainbow Refugee Committee - information for LGBT refugee claimants info@rainbowrefugee. ca
FTM Alliance of Winnipeg: Transgender/transsexual female-to-male issues. Meetings at the RRC, first Tues. of the month, from 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Sexuality Education Resource Centre: Resources and information. 200-226 Osborne St. North, R3C 1V4. www.serc.mb.ca
gAy&E: Participate in the Winnipeg arts, cultural, and entertainment scene. E-mail tallbrat@mts. net.
The Snowy Owl Monarchist Society: Non-profit fundraising for organizations that enrich the GLBT community. Box 26053, 676 Portage Ave., R3G 0M4.
Gay Fathers of Winnipeg: E-mail gfow@mts.net. Web: gayfathersofwinnipeg.com. Goldenboys (Gay and Lesbian Volleyball League): Recreational league. Call Mike at 452-5780 or Mark at 774-2122. Keystone Rainbow Curling League (GLBT curling league). Web: keystonecurling.com L*ACE group: For women interested in the Winnipeg arts, cultural, and entertainment scene. E-mail lace_ace@hotmail.com. Web: acelace.spaces.live.com. Lambda: Business and Professional Association. P.O. Box 1575, Main Station, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 2Z4. 204-944-0354. Web: lambdabiz.com LEGIT - Canadian immigration information for same sex couples www.LEGIT.ca Lesbian Parents of Winnipeg: Monthly activities in the community for parents and kids to build connections and have fun. Find us on Facebook or e-mail jodiandrose@gmail.com Masquerade: Crossdresser, transvestite, and transgender group. Web: masquerade.ca or call 452-1100. Men’s Resource Centre: 301-321 McDermot Ave. Counselling for men. Call 956-9528 or 1-866-MRC-EHCC (672-3433) in Manitoba, Web: elizabethhill.ca/mrc. Out There Sports & Recreation: GLBT sports and recreation events in Winnipeg Web: gaycanada. com/outthere. Parents, Friends & Family of Transgender Individuals: Meets at the Rainbow Resource Centre on the second Monday of every month, in the library at 7 p.m. Contact pffoTI@gmail. com PFLAG (Parents, Family, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays): Call Helen at 474-2008, mail c/o the RRC or e-mail winnipegmb@pflagcanada.ca. Peer Project for Youth (PPY) is a program that offers LGBTTQA* youth a safe, fun place to learn new skills, create projects and celebrate our identities. PPY meets weekly. Phone (204) 2842799. E-mail: peerproject4youth@rainbowresourcecentre.org. PolyWinnipeg is a pansexual social, support and educational group for polyamorous people in Winnipeg and area, www.polywinnipeg.com
30 31
Rainbow Educators of Manitoba (REM): Meets once a month. Cindy at 837-6036 or Manny at 478-1402.
outwords, november 2011 // www.outwords.ca
Rainbow Harmony Project: GLTT chorus. Phone 477-6448, or Web: rainbowharmonyproject.ca/
Transgender Support Group: Meets third Friday of the month, 7:30 p.m. at the RRC. All welcome. Web: winnipegtransgendergroup.com
Young United: 222 Furby St. Call 783-0128.
HEALTH & HIV/AIDS LGBTT/Sexual & Gender Minorities: Workshops, Presentations, Seminars. The Rainbow Resource Centre provides education, awareness and outreach to assist health-care providers, educators (K-12 and post-secondary), students (K-12), social service and commercial service providers in addressing the issues faced by LGBTT people. Call 474-0212. House of Hesed: Safe HIV/AIDS transition house. 772-4793, (fax) 783-0494, e-mail info@ HouseofHesed.ca. Web: HouseofHesed.ca. (Note: This organization may receive financing from an ex-gay ministry.) Kali Shiva AIDS Services: Non-medial support for people living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS. 646 Logan, Call 783-8565 or 774-0708, or e-mail kalishiv@mts.net. Nine Circles Community Health Centre: 705 Broadway. HIV primary-care services, 940-6000, 1-888-305-8647.
University of Manitoba Peer Advisors: Room 150, University Centre. 474-6696.
Provincial AIDS/STI Information Line: 945-2437 or 1-800-782-2437, Mon.to Fri. from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
University of Winnipeg UWSA LGBT* Centre: 786-9025. E-mail lgbt@uwsa.ca, Web: theuwsa. ca/services-student-groups
Sage House: Drop-in and outreach for streetinvolved women and transgenders living as women. 943-6379.
Winnipeg Lesbian and Gay Pride: Not-for-profit volunteer organization responsible for annual Pride Day and assists in community Pride Festival events. E-mail info@gaypridewinnipeg.com, Web: gaypridewinnipeg.com
Street Connections: Needle exchange, safer crack use kits, condoms, info and service connections. Call 981-0742.
Ndinawe/Red River College: Child & Youth Care Certificate Program for folks formerly involved in the sex trade. Call 582-1978.
SPIRITUALITY Anakhnu Jewish GLBT Group: A program of the Rady Jewish Community Centre. social and cultural programs. 477-7537, E-mail tbarr@aradyjcc. com. Dignity Winnipeg: GLBT Catholics and friends, meet every third Friday at Augustine United Church, 444 River Ave. at Osborne.Doors open 6 p.m. Call Thomas, 287-8583, or Sandra, 7796446. E-mail winnipeg@dignitycanada.org, Web: dignitycanada.org. Rainbow Ministry (Outreach of the UnitedChurch): 302-G Weston St., Call 9542904. Winnipeg Full Moon Group: A place for Wiccan and pagan-minded people of all genders and sexual orientations. Please contact Laurie via e-mail anotheragentsmith@gmail.com with the subject ‘Full Moon Group’ for information.
AFFIRMING Augustine United Church: 444 River Ave. at Osborne. 284-2250. Shaarey Zedek Synagogue: 561 Wellington Cres. Temple Shalom: Reform Judaism. Web: templeshalomwinnipeg.ca Unitarian Universalist Church of Winnipeg (Liberal Religion): 603 Wellington Cres. 4741261.
Culture The Fantasia Affair: A cabaret exploring drag culture. E-mail thefantasiaaffair@gmail.com or visit Fantasia Affair group on Facebook. Winnipeg Gay and Lesbian Film Society Inc.: Phone 775-6457. E-mail reelpride@hotmail.com. Web: reelpride.org.
Brandon 7th Street Health Access Centre: Counselling and programming related to sexual health, addictions, and mental health. 20-7th St., 578-4800. PFLAG (Parents, Family & Friends of Lesbians and Gays): Meets monthly. Call 727-0417. Sexuality Education Resource Centre: Counselling for GLBT community and family members. Community education/programming related to GLBT issues. GLBT Coffee House third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at 161 8th Street. Call 727-0417. Web: www.serc.mb.ca
KENORA Kenora Lesbians Phone Line: 807-468-5801, Tues., 7 to 9 p.m.
WIllIAm ShAkeSpeARe directed by SteveN SchIppeR by
NovembeR 24 – DecembeR 17 “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet” – juliet Director Steven Schipper places the world’s most famous star-crossed lovers in the imagined Verona district of present-day Jerusalem. This incarnation of the play shows how compassion and love, rather than conflict and violence, have the power to heal and redeem us. WARNING Theatrical haze and fog
by
SARAh Ruhl
directed by
RIchARD RoSe
NovembeR 3 – 19 “A titillating comedy of manners... Talk about good vibrations.” – san jose mercury news The respectable Dr. Givings generates a buzz when he uses a newfangled electrical device to cure his female patients of hysteria. His young wife is fascinated with the sounds emanating from the next room. Can this new gadget solve the age-old problems of love? WARNING Sexual themes
A co-production with
ON SALE NOW! Doowah Design Inc. Client: MTC Job no: 2315 Insertion: As per client arrangement
cAll 942-6537 1-877-446-4500 (toll-free)
vISIt clIck MTC Patron Services www.mtc.mb.ca 174 Market Ave. Monday to Saturday, 10am - 6pm