Outwords November 2011 Issue 188

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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THANKS AGAIN TO: HEALTHY CHILD MANITOBA, THE WINNIPEG FOUNDATION, RUN FOR RIGHTS, PFLAG BRANDON, LOUIS RIEL SCHOOL DIVISION, FORT RICHMOND COLLEGIATE, SNOW Y OWL MONARCHIST SOCIETY, THE HAPPY COOKER, GLBTTQ* ARTISTS OF WINNIPEG AND MANY OTHER INDIVIDUAL AND COMMUNITY DONORS!

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

outwords

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General Inquiries: info@outwords.ca

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

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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.

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Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire

Man that Got Away Have Yourself a

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Somewhere Over the Rainbow ...and so much more

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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