Outwords 213 October 2014

OUTWORDS QUEER VIEWS, NEWS, ISSUES

LEGENDS ISSUE DAME OF DRAG: JENNIFUR COATES CELEBRATES

40 YEARS

OF DRAG

RESULTS FROM LEGENDS SURVEY: WHO YOU THINK ARE WINNIPEG’S GLBT* LEGENDS

LEGENDS IN THE CANADIAN MUSEUM FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

October / November 2014

Issue 213

SERVING THE GLBT* COMMUNITY SINCE 1994

Your Path

to Success STUDENT SUPPORTS

LIBRARIES / COUNSELLING AND ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES / TUTORING / DIVERSITY AND INTERCULTURAL SERVICES ACADEMIC SUCCESS CENTRE / STUDENT EMPLOYMENT SERVICES / LGBTT* INITIATIVE / ABORIGINAL STUDENT SUPPORT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRE / ACADEMIC ADVISING

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OutWords // Index

4

A time to remember GLBT* legends Editorial

5

First trans* rowers to compete in Canada National briefs

6

U of M offers free ally training Local briefs

8 10 12 13 14

CMHR commemorates GLBT* Canadians Jennifur Coates: 40 years of drag Pinhead pride Curling update Queer and Present Danger: round two

16 17

From victim to survivor

18

Black blends from New York’s Fashion Week

21

Ghosts and ghouls playlist

24 26 27 29 30 31

Your GLBT* legends of Winnipeg

Fashion editorial

The gaylist

GLBT* ink Comic Con & GLBT* comics Reel Pride preview Voyage of love Creepshow: Look like a zombie in four easy steps Spiritual legends Spirituality column

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 3

OutWords // Editorial

PUBLISHED BY THE OUTWORDS VOLUNTEER STAFF: SENIOR PRINT EDITOR : Danelle Cloutier SENIOR ONLINE EDITOR : Meg Crane SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR : Miles McEnery NEWS: VACANT

A TRIBUTE TO THOSE WHO PAVED THE WAY

By Danelle Cloutier

A

t a time when GLBT* people in Canada have access to many of the same rights as their straight counterparts, it’s hard for some of us to ever imagine life without some equality.

For many people, homophobia and pushing back against it was routine and it’s those people to whom we dedicate this issue.

We’re paying tribute to the people who wore bags over their heads at the first Pride; the same-sex couples who married then fought to have their marriages legally recognized; and the people who would have rather died standing up for the community than lived and kept quiet. You are true legends.

Halloween is a time to disguise your identity and for one day, be anyone, which is the perfect time to showcase the GLBT* people who did just the opposite. OK, the people at the first Pride with bags over their heads hid their physical identities, but didn’t repress themselves emotionally, politically or sexually.

This issue we’re tipping our hats to those whose stories will be seen by thousands at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, including local heroes Chris Vogel and Richard North, and Jamaicanborn gay rights activist Gareth Henry, who was attacked by police for defending GLBT* people. He now lives in Toronto.

Also, we’re happy to toast Manitoba’s most

experienced drag queen, Jennifur Coates, on the cover.

Since this issue is on stands through November, we also have a lot of people to pay our respects to. In 1998, Rita Hester, a transgender woman in Boston, was murdered. Her death sparked Transgender Day of Remembrance on Nov. 20. The day commemorates transgender people who lost their lives to anti-transgender bigotry and violence. It also raises awareness about the issues that face the trans* community.

Decades later, Canadians shudder to think being a GLBT* person was ever so taboo. The fact that loving someone of the same sex was a crime punishable by death, and still is in some countries, seems absolutely out of this world.

Yet, there’s more to these experiences than trauma and death. These injustices bring the community together for a common cause and in the end, make us stronger. As often as we’re bombarded with homophobia and transphobia, we’re surrounded with support from people who have gone or are going through the exact same thing.

Let us know who your GLBT* legend is by filling out our legends survey at https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/2DSLMR9 and see the results on our website.

Enjoy the issue.

OUTWORDS IS HIRING! Want to hone your writing skills? Looking to add some volunteer work to your resume? Have interesting things to say? Then we want you!

OutWords is looking for volunteer bloggers. To apply, send an outline of what types of topics you would cover and how often you would realistically contribute, to Meg Crane at online.editor@outwords.ca.

4 // www.outwords.ca // October / November 2014

ARTS EDITOR: Jessica Botelho-Urbanski FASHION EDITOR: Samanta Katz BOOKS, MOVIES & MUSIC EDITOR: Graeme Coleman FOOD AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR: Shayna Wiwierski ART DIRECTOR & LAYOUT: Dylan Bekkering ASSISTANT LAYOUT: Michele Buchanan BOOK KEEPER: Christy Elias DISTRIBUTION: Meryl Kaye De Leon & Terry Wiebe WEB MANAGER: Vic Hooper SALES MANAGER: Phillip Olcen COVER ART: Everyone (Dylan Bekkering) CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE: Katy MacKinnon, Armande Martine, Jay Rich, Adriana Mingo, Shandi Strong, Brett Owen, Gina Dascal, Larkin Schmiedl, Eric Plamondon, Ray Buteau BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Debbie Scarborough, Kevin Hills, Darron Field, Liz Millward, Armando Perla, Darrel Nadeau, Rachel Wood, Rachel Morgan.

OutWords 170 Scott St. Winnipeg, MB R3L OL3 Phone: (204) 942-4599 For office hours, please call.

General Inquiries: info@outwords.ca Editor: editor@outwords.ca Creative: creative@outwords.ca Advertising: sales@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 © 2014 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.

OutWords // National News Briefs // Compiled by Katy MacKinnon

Many Iranian GLBT* refugees have made Toronto their home. Photo Credit: EP photo / Shutterstock.com

IRANIANS SEEK TORONTO REFUGE TORONTO – Toronto has become a place for Iranian GLBT* refugees to build a community, according to the Toronto Star. The refugee program sponsored by the federal government has allowed more than 200 GLBT* refugees to make their way to Canada through Turkey and many of them end up in Toronto.

Being GLBT* is punishable by death in Iran. The Iranian Railroad for Queer Refugees is also helping queer Iranians come to Canada. The Torontobased organization assists people with the immigration process, and provides support and counselling for refugees.

The organization has helped resettle more than 450 people.

While GLBT* refugees and immigrants may be more free in Canada, many are still having difficulties with employment and discrimination.

A screenshot of the anti-gay letter published in The Newfoundland Herald.

From CBC News.

ANTI-GAY LETTER FUELS HUMAN RIGHTS COMPLAINT ST. JOHN'S, Newfoundland – The Newfoundland Herald published a letter to the editor in its Aug. 3 to 9 issue titled, “The Coming Christian Revolt,” according to CBC News. The letter, written by right-wing American blogger Matt Barber, is from a blog post where Barber calls for readers to stand against GLBT* rights. The letter includes other topics, such as abortion. The Western Pride NL, a Newfoundland and Labrador GLBT* group, filed a human rights complaint on the grounds of “propaganda and the incitement of hate towards an identifiable group.” The Newfoundland Herald planned to publish responses to the letter from readers in the next issues of the entertainment magazine.

Halifax drag performer Rouge Fatale lines up with the soldiers at the Fortress of Louisbourg as part of the GSA conference. Courtesy of The Halifax Herald Limited.

LOUISBOURG SUPPORTS GLBT* PEOPLE LOUISBOURG, Newfoundland – Parks Canada’s Fortress of Louisbourg in Newfoundland held its first gay-straight alliance youth conference, according to The Chronicle Herald. The military fort tries to re-enact daily life in the mid1700s, a time when attitudes towards GLBT* were far behind those that exist today. Junior high, high school and university students from across Cape Breton attended the workshop and participated in workshops that tackled topics such as how to make gay-straight alliances in schools more successful. The attendees also witnessed a performance from four former Halifax drag queens. Animators working at the fort were given the option of researching what life was like for GLBT* people in the 1700s.

Savannah Burton and Enza Anderson were the first trans rowers to compete in Canada. Photo from TRANS-ition’s GoFundMe page.

FIRST TRANS ROWERS TO COMPETE IN CANADA OTTAWA – TRANS-fusion, a five-person rowing team, competed in a 22-km boat race on the Ottawa River in August and its members hope they raised awareness about the inclusion of transgender people in sports. The race was the first time that openly transgender athletes competed in rowing in Canada. Two members of the team, Enza Anderson and Savannah Burton, avoided sports in the past due to discrimination. The team finished fourth. They were part of a pilot project at the Hanlan Boat Club in Toronto, which makes an effort to attract transgender individuals to rowing. The club wanted to create trans-inclusive teams to increase the number of role models for transgender youth.

204.985.9200 OUTNABOUTTRAVEL.COM

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 5

OutWords // Local News Briefs // Compiled by Katy MacKinnon

Three organizations offered free GLBT* ally training sessions in September.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com

Study examines transgender people’s experiences with healthcare.Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com

U OF M OFFERS FREE ALLY TRAINING

NEW STUDY EXAMINES TRANS EXPERIENCE IN HEALTHCARE

WINNIPEG – This September, the University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU), Rainbow Pride Mosaic and the Womyn’s Centre, held two free LGBTTQ* ally training sessions for students.

According to the three organizations, the purpose of the training sessions was to provide non-GLBT* people with the tools to speak out and stand up for individuals who are being targeted because of their sexual orientation or gender.

The sessions covered multiple topics, including how to use appropriate language and affirming communication, how to be an effective advocate for systemic change and how to debunk myths and stereotypes of GLBT* people and their families.

WINNIPEG – A study by the University of Manitoba is examining the healthcare experiences of transgender and gender non-conforming people. Marina RountreeJames, primary investigator for the project, wants to determine what is going well and what gaps still exist for transgender people seeking health care. For the first part of the study, 30 transgender people were interviewed about their experiences. For the second part, 11 physicians were interviewed. Following the results from a number of studies showing that trans and gender non-conforming people experience barriers to health-care services, the researchers wanted to see how these issues affect people in Winnipeg.

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Candace Maxymowich has some controversial views on education.

CREATIONISM IN, GSAS OUT WINNIPEG – On Oct. 22, Winnipeggers will vote for a new mayor, city council and school trustees. Candace Maxymowich is running for school trustee in the Louis Riel School Division, Ward 4, and has made headlines for her controversial beliefs that creationism should be taught in science class alongside evolution, according to the Winnipeg Free Press.

Also on the radar is her opposition to Bill 18, which forces provincially-funded schools to allow gay-straight alliances, and her support of abstinence-only sexual education. A former youth leader for the PC Party of Manitoba, Maxymowich is also against abortion. She has stated that while these are her own personal views, she won’t push for them in the classroom if elected. In the running for mayor is openlygay candidate Michel Fillion.

MAWA CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY WINNIPEG – The Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG) hosted a special exhibition to honour the 30th anniversary of Mentoring Artists for Women’s Art (MAWA) last month. Today, MAWA has over 200 members and was formed because even though women made up the majority of art school attendees, they received fewer opportunities than men to exhibit their work.

The artwork displayed in the exhibit was from the WAG’s permanent collection and drew attention to the many people involved with MAWA over the past 30 years.

MAWA also has a number of events scheduled in October to celebrate its anniversary.

The organization has instituted a large amount of programming at little to no cost for all genders.

WE ARE PROUD TO STAND UP FOR ALL MANITOBANS

Greg Selinger

Jennifer Howard

Ron Lemieux

Jim Rondeau

Dave Sharon Gaudreau Blady

MLA for St. Boniface MLA for Fort Rouge MLA for Dawson Trail Premier of Manitoba 204-946-0272 204-878-4644 204-237-9247 JenniferHoward.ca Ron-Lemieux.ca GregSelinger.ca

MLA for Assiniboia 204-888-7722 JimRondeau.mb.ca

Nancy Allan

MLA for St. Vital 204-237-8771 NancyAllan.ca

Erna Braun

MLA for St. Norbert MLA for Kirkfield Park MLA for Rossmere 204-261-1794 204-667-7244 204-832-2318 DaveGaudreau.ca SharonBlady.ca ErnaBraun.ca

OutWords // Features

Today’s Trailblazers are Human Rights Heroes

By Armande Martine

A

rchitect Antoine Predock chose translucent white alabaster for the ramps in the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR). Backlit with LED lighting, the ramps take visitors through galleries on a literal journey to light through darkness, meant to symbolize travelling towards hope and optimism. Hope and optimism following yesterday’s struggles, but also in the face of present day human rights battles.

“

There is a lot of content that reflects our community.

Among the struggles represented in the museum are those of leaders in GLBT* rights.

Armando Perla, one of six CMHR researchers, was involved in curating most of the GLBT* content included in various galleries, which are divided into themes as opposed to groups of people. “We are pretty good in LGBT content. I think there is a lot of content that reflects our community.”

Perla says that if it was solely up to him, there would be more GLBT* content, but that this could be said of all topics within the galleries. Input into which stories to portray was decided through public consultations in 20 Canadian cities, stakeholders (activists advancing human rights) and the museum’s own research.

Depicted in the various galleries

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are stories of heroic acts against homophobia, such as the one by Jamaican-born gay rights activist Gareth Henry. Now living in Toronto, he risked his life to support individuals threatened by homophobia and those living with AIDS in both Jamaica and Canada.

He was the target of violent attacks by police for his role as a rights defender for GLBT* people in Jamaica. Henry made international headlines in 2007 when he was beaten by police after being cornered by a mob of 200. He eventually fled to Canada where he was granted asylum.

Harsh oppression for GLBT* people continues to exist in Iran, as it does in Jamaica. Featured in both the Canadian Journeys and Turning Points for Humanity galleries is Arsham Parsi, an Iranian GLBT* human rights activist and founder of the Iranian Railroad for Queer Refugees (IRQR). IRQR is an international organization based in Toronto that helps GLBT* Iranian refugees to obtain asylum status in safe countries.

Other local and national GLBT* gallery stories include the story of teenager Rebekah Enns, who formed

a Gay-Straight Alliance in her religious school in 2011. Enns is also the first Sybil Shack Human Rights Youth Award recipient to be recognized for addressing the issue of homophobia.

No museum depicting gay rights would be complete without mention of early years activists Richard North and Chris Vogel. Their crusade in Canada to obtain same-sex spousal benefits and their success in fighting for marriage equality make them living legends. One of the gallery’s story niches is devoted to same-sex marriage and features many wedding pictures, including some from North and Vogel.

Though their same-sex victories have benefited those in the GLBT* community, North and Vogel’s own marriage in 1974 has been refused registration by the province. “Our marriage in 1974 was in complete accordance with the relevant legislation (the Manitoba Marriage Act which did not specify the participants’ gender). The Unitarian Universalist Church, where the marriage was performed, issued their usual certificate of marriage, which is part of the exhibit at the CMHR,” said Vogel.

When the museum put out a call for

OutWords // Features

dreams came true and we both got to walk together hand-in-hand and become legally and lovingly married.”

In Canada, we may have come further regarding gay rights than some countries, such as Jamaica. However, there are still significant acts of violence against GLBT* people in Canada. The most recent being last year’s stabbing of openly gay Nova Scotian Scott Jones, which left him paraplegic. The stabbing was a stark reminder that homophobia is still alive in this country.

In 2011, CMHR CEO Stuart Murray signed a memorandum of agreement with the Netherlands embassy to facilitate the promotion of human rights through joint projects. Both nations play leading roles in the area of human rights.

May they lead the way together—along with other allied nations—in the current battle for GLBT* rights and challenge people to take action in today’s human rights endeavours Armande Martine is a provincial civil servant, mother of three adult children and partner to Nelle. She is an advocate for LBGTQ* rights and equality.

Photo: Aaron Cohen/CMHR-MCDP

same-sex marriage photos, longtime couple Ken Delisle and John Robertson, both former Roman Catholics who were subsequently ordained as United Church ministers, submitted their photo, mentioning that their 1979 wedding ceremony was not considered valid.

“We called it a witnessing,” said Delisle of their ceremony. As if to acknowledge that love and commitment are the only essential and necessary marriage criteria, their photo was chosen to be exhibited. Delisle and Robertson underwent a wedding ceremony and included the necessary signed documentation in 2005 to validate the marriage and satisfy legal requirements Couple Linda and Lynne Robidoux Burndorfer celebrated seven years of married life this past July. They believe their submitted wedding photo to the CMHR was chosen for its depiction of peace and love between two people.

According to Linda, the couple knew early on they were meant for each other.

She recalls thinking to herself, “I am going to marry that gal,” following a visit from Lynne at her workplace. Two years into the relationship, Lynne remembers Linda saying to her, “When are you going to ask me to marry you?”

Linda concludes, “Thanks to the freedom and marriage laws we cherish in Canada, my/our

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OutWords // News

WINNIPEG’S LEGENDARY

DAME OF DRAG CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF ARTISTRY

By Jay Rich

A

t 17 and fortified by a few pre-party drinks with friends, John Cumming walked through the doors of a GLBT* social at the Steamfitters and Pipefitters Hall on Higgins Avenue in Winnipeg. He was not only underage, but he was also wearing heels, a borrowed knee-length, long-sleeved brown dress, a blond frisbee wig and makeup.

His alter ego, Jennifur Coates, had arrived. It was Halloween 1974.

Now, 40 years later, Cumming says he finds it overwhelming to realize he is Manitoba’s senior drag artist, entertainer and charity fundraiser.

He demurs when someone suggests that in living as a fearless

openly gay man and drag queen, he has shattered social barriers and taboos and has elevated a marginalized community.

However, he continues to do just that.

To mark his 40th anniversary of drag, friends have organized a celebratory evening of performance on Oct. 18 at Club 200, beginning at 9 p.m. The event promises to be a madcap romp through the decades of Jennifur Coates, with a variety of performers taking to the stage to honour the one who is a mentor and inspiration to many.

While quick to credit those courageous queens who came before him, Cumming had no drag mentor. Over time, he taught himself how to do makeup, hair, and to put together outfits. As an

artist and cabaret entertainer, he became fiercely devoted to his craft. He is the consummate professional—always impeccably elegant in appearance, well prepared for the stage and able to shift with ease to sassy outrageousness. Cumming Photo by Jay Rich.

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OutWords // News

can deploy a razor-sharp, irreverent sense of humour at the blink of one of those sweeping eyelashes. As only a seasoned performer can, he senses the mood of the crowd—and changes that energy if necessary. The quick-witted improviser is adept at owning a stage and has a wide repertoire, from classics to the latest hits.

David Cumming, what are you wearing?” He recalled, “All I could think of to say was, ‘nothing.’”

By age 14, Cumming said he was “scared as hell” while trying to get into clubs such as the Mardis Gras and Detour on Albert Street—both establishments with GLBT* clientele. Cumming left home

He laughs when he recalls the day he was at a classmate’s home and put on the girl’s mother’s dress.

The youngest of five children, Cumming was born in Winnipeg and grew up in Fort Rouge. He attended Ashland and Riverview schools and Churchill High School. He laughs when he recalls the day he was at a classmate’s home and put on the girl’s mother’s dress. It was so much fun that Cumming walked home in the dress. As he rounded the

corner of his home, his mother noticed the spectacle and said, “John

John Cumming. Photo by Jay Rich.

at 16 and often held several jobs simultaneously in order to be self-sufficient. At 17, he began working weekends at Happenings Social Club.

“I was given someone else’s liquor ID, as I was underage,” he remembers, noting that he worked at that club for about five years. Seven years were spent living upstairs at “The Office Sauna Bath” and working part time at the front desk. He was also a food and liquor server at the first Sherbrook Street location of Giovanni’s Room (later Gio’s Club and Bar).

Cumming worked as a courier then joined the restaurant industry. He started as a busser at The Old Spaghetti Factory and he was trained in dining room service at the Manitoba Club. He was also head bartender at the Winnipeg Winter Club and has worked as a host and/or waiter at Underground Pizza, Chocolate Shop, East Side Exchange and Tre Visi. Cumming still works part time in catering for Star Grill.

He has an extensive history of voluntarism and GLBT* community fundraising going back over three decades. It all

Jennifur Coates about age 18 cira 1975.

began with Jennifur Coates winning Miss Glamour (in a blue suit and pillbox hat) at a social at the Odd Fellows Hall. Subsequently, he became Miss Happenings (1983), Ms. Gio’s (1987) and Miss Club 200 (1990). He later became an honourary life member of the Oscar Wilde Memorial Society, Inc. and a Club 200 Hall of Fame performer.

When the Snowy Owl Monarchist Society, Inc. (SOMS) was formed as a part of an international charity, Cumming was crowned Baroness 1, The Black Sable Golden Champagne Empress from 1997 to 1998 (the

title has since been renamed Empress). The empress serves as the chief fundraiser. He has since served as SOMS president and vice-president and is currently the board’s representative from the College of Monarchs, which oversees the SOMS and provides liaison with past title holders.

He was particularly moved in recent years to receive the Humanitarian Award from the Empress of Canada Foundation.

Cumming, 57, is president of Gio’s Cares, a GLBT* charity that fundraises to improve the lives of those living with HIV/ AIDS and other serious illnesses, and has served in the position for a total of six terms. He was the organization’s first Goodwill Ambassador, who serves as the face of the charity, and is currently president of Artemis Housing Co-op, which provides homes to those living with chronic illnesses.

The province’s foremost and fearless doyenne of drag plans to continue entertaining and fundraising.

Jay Rich is secretary of Gio’s Cares and Artemis Housing Co-operative, and four-term president of the Oscar Wilde Memorial Society, Inc.

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 11

OutWords // Sports

GLBT* bowling league makes changes for upcoming season

By Adriana Mingo

T

GET

he Prime Timers Gay Men’s Bowling League is going through some major changes for the upcoming season—the league changed its name and is now including women. Its new name, Out There Bowling (OTB), was changed to be consistent with the brand of Out There Sports & Recreation, which is the sports organization for the queer community that the league is a part of. The name also came about because the league will no longer be exclusive to male participants, as it had been since its beginning.

Alan Moore, OTB coordinator and participant, said the league was founded more than 10 years ago by a guy who only wanted males to participate. “There was one time, two or three years ago, where they co-ordinated something where they got more people involved,” he said.

“They invited people from the Rainbow Resource Centre, but hadn’t said anything about it being guys only. Some people had an issue with that.”

After that, women were occasionally included in special events, but there was always an issue with making everyone feel included.

Moore hopes including women will raise the

OUT attendance at each bowling night. “It’s just a matter of making sure everyone is comfortable and feels that it’s a great place to be,” he said.

“There were four or five weeks where four or five people showed up.

There’s no point in saying 'guys only,' if you’re only getting five guys. It’s not as fun.”

Moore’s teammate, Trevor Thobaben, has been participating on and off for 10 years. “This is the third consecutive year I have been involved,” he said. “I did it back in 2002, when we had more lanes

no commitment or registrations required, but he recommends newcomers contact him beforehand for directions.

“When I first came last fall, I walked past everyone that was there because I had no idea who I was looking for,” he said.

“We’ve had a few people say they didn’t see us there. So we try to catch people when they come in.”

The league costs approximately $170 per participant, per year and on average, has 10 to 12 participants per evening.

It’s great for anyone who’s just coming out. and more people, but used to do it every second Thursday. There was a good turnout and then it sort of died off.”

This fivepin bowling league meets at Academy Bowling Lanes every Thursday from October to May. “In the early ‘90s, they had tenpin bowling, which was at the lanes by Polo Park,” said Thobaben. “That was where the Prime Timers started out. By the early 2000s, it had moved to Academy Bowling Lanes.”

Moore said there’s

“We’re trying to get more people involved because it’s not that expensive and I figure most people have gone bowling at some point—whatever it was for, most people enjoy it. Not everyone thinks about going and doing it on a weekly basis, so we’re just trying to give people a reason to show up even just once and meet everyone.”

No skill or previous bowling experience is required for participation.

“Whether you’re bowling

Alan Moore, Out There Bowling co-ordinator and participant.

Photo by Adriana Mingo.

60 or bowling 300, it doesn’t matter,” said Moore.

OTB is a great way to meet new people in a different environment. “It’s great for anyone who’s just coming out,” said Moore.

“If you want something smaller and in a more controlled environment, where it’s not a bar that you’re trying to meet people at, bowling is an easy way to do that. [The league] is just a social activity organized around bowling, because most of the time we’re just sitting and talking anyway.”

To join Out There Bowling, email bowling@ outtherewinnipeg.com.

Adriana Mingo is a Creative Communications student at Red River College with a passion for all things art and pop culture. You can follow her on Twitter at @akamingo27.

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OutWords // News

Paolo Bona / Shutterstock.com

FROM BONSPIELS TO FUNSPIELS

Keystone Rainbow Curling League has it all

By Shandi Strong

T

he Keystone Rainbow Curling League (KRCL) is welcoming all newcomers, beginners and those returning from previous years to join the league this winter. The 2014/15 season gets underway Sunday afternoons beginning Oct. 5, and runs until March 22.

A curling clinic is planned for Saturday Oct. 4 at 1 p.m. at the Granite Curling Club, home of the KRCL. All beginner curlers, as well as experienced curlers wishing to brush up on their skills, are welcome to attend the clinic for instruction on how to curl. A funspiel will follow for all those wishing to practise before the regular season begins the next day.

John L. has been an avid curler and instructor for over 40 years and has been with Keystone since the very beginning.

Originally asked to coach, he stuck around to help build the league and still spares throughout the season. He stresses that KRCL curlers should have fun. “The social aspect is paramount. People should come out, have fun, and not overly worry about

their skill levels.”

Curling began as a social sport in Canada. Rural folk, mostly farmers, needed something to do during the cold winter months and not all of them were hockey players. The social aspect developed alongside the game, bringing people together and eventually creating bonspiels just so people could meet one another and enjoy the game. Leagues like Keystone, which are very recreational and social, are the main supporters of local curling clubs.

Without such leagues there would be no clubs.

Curling began as a social sport.

John is a certified Level 3 coach. His goal is to teach folks how to be passionate about the game. His expertise has taken him all over Manitoba, as far north as Churchill, to the U.S. and even Germany. He has taught people with disabilities and even legally

blind people to curl. He sees it as an opportunity to teach everyone, regardless of ability, an enjoyable pastime.

He really wanted to see the Keystone league succeed. When he first began with them, he was not out, but he didn’t let that sway him. He shared the organizers’ goals of having a fun and safe place for the community to bond.

To John, the league is “tremendous, well organized, and successful.” He is proud of the league’s involvement in bonspiels and their running of the Bison Cup. He said seeing the enjoyment in the players' faces makes it all worthwhile.

For information on how to register, visit keystonecurling.com. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis so you are encouraged to register ASAP. Shandi Strong has been active in the community for over a decade. She is a past vice-president of the Oscar Wilde Memorial Society, and currently volunteers at the Rainbow Resource Centre. She is also expanding her role in the community as an advocate for trans rights.

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OutWords // News

QUEER COMEDY COMEBACK Comedian Chantel Marostica’s Queer and Present Danger: round two

By Danelle Cloutier

W

innipeg comedian Chantel Marostica’s show about growing up as a lesbian and dealing with a drug addiction and mood disorder was so successful in August that she’s doing it again on Oct. 15.

Even though those aren’t funny subjects, her multimedia performance at The Park Theatre got a lot of laughs. “I wanted it to be funny and you can’t really touch on having a mood disorder and make it super hilarious so I was proud of that.”

It wasn’t all laughs, though. “A lot of people were really touched by it and texted me or Facebooked me or emailed me to tell me that they went through the same thing and they had no idea that I had been through that,” said Marostica about her show, Queer and Present Danger (QAPD). “People were like bawling and I was like, ‘Sorry. Did you have fun, though? Thanks for coming.’”

In the whirlwind of filming and writing the show in two weeks and memorizing the script in two days, Marostica forgot how serious her story was, until the second show, when the subject matter sunk in. “The second show, I started to cry at the end and I was like, ‘why am I crying?’ I was like ‘oh! This is super real,’” she said. “I just told a bunch of people that I tried to kill myself three months ago.”

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OutWords // News

Marostica said her follow-up performance will be tighter, more inspirational and less sad. There will also be no opening acts this time around.

The show came about when her tour manager had allegedly organized a national tour under the name of QAPD to give her the opportunity to perform her material to a larger fan base. She had trouble with her manager, eventually cut ties with him and could no longer go on tour. So, The Park Theatre approached her and asked if she would perform there.

Marostica said that at the time, QAPD was just a funny name for a tour, but when the pressure was on to fill an hour with new material, she thought hard about what the name meant to her. One thing came to mind—coming out has always and will always affect her. “When you first come out, it’s really awkward and hard and it’s like you’re just starting your life.

People are like, ‘yeah you’re gay’ but it comes up every time you meet someone or anytime you talk to someone,” she said.

“Coming out is always in the present.”

But there’s more to the show than just coming out. “I just wanted people to know what the story is instead of thinking I’m just a coke head and to know what happened to make that happen or what it means when I say that I have a mood disorder.”

The same night at The Park Theatre, after QAPD, Marostica will host another edition of the Drunk Show, which is exactly as it sounds—she gets her comedian friends drunk and they (attempt to) perform 10 minutes of their material.

“Every single act comes up with some crazy thing that they need to do, but they’re going to be drunk so they’re not even going to be able to do it.”

If you’re thinking of catching one of Marostica’s shows, Oct. 15 is the time to do it—she’s moving to Toronto a month later and is hosting these shows as a goodbye. But, she will be making regular visits to Winnipeg to put on the Drunk Show every six months.

Tickets for QAPD are $10 at the door and tickets for the Drunk Show are $15. Tickets for both shows are $20. Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba will have a table set up and will be taking donations.

Danelle Cloutier is the senior editor of OutWords magazine.

Marostica also opened for Russell Peters on Sept. 16 at the MTS Centre as part of her prize for winning Canada’s Next Top Comic. “I keep having nightmares about it,” she said before her performance. She performed her regular material to a crowd of about 13,000—the biggest show she’s ever done.

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 15

OutWords // Arts

FROM VICTIM TO SURVIVOR

Winnipeg woman urges other abuse victims to get help

By OutWords staff Dedicated to Dr. T.

Vivian Muska and her two dogs, Nacho and Jasper. Photo by Susan Mulvaney.

V

ivian Muska approached OutWords claiming she was subjected to years of gut-wrenching sexual and physical abuse. She says she hopes telling her story will help others in the GLBT* community facing similar issues.

Now in her 40s, she claims to have been sexually and physically abused throughout her childhood living on a family farm in Winnipeg. She says the abuse came from family members, each separately on multiple occasions. “I am a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, multiple abusers, incest, torture, starvation, beaten—all by family members,” says Muska, who claims the sexual abuse stopped by the time she was 12. She doesn’t know why it stopped or why she was targeted to begin with.

One moment in particular sticks out in her mind. “[One family member] buried me in the snow and stuffed a garden hose just so I could breathe, and I was literally entombed in snow. I couldn’t move. All I could do was breathe through this garden hose and lay

there. He would let me out very slowly and I could hear him laughing the whole time.”

One of Muska’s family members was allegedly schizophrenic and in and out of the hospital. Muska believes this to be a possible source for this particular family member’s actions, but there is no evident relation between the abuse and mental illness. “She would stand over me with a pillow over my head and say, ‘You know I could smother you to death and nobody would ever know it.’” Muska says she still has insomnia to this day because of this person.

The physical abuse eventually stopped, but the damage was already done. Muska became very suicidal. “It was mainly from taking pills or going to the winter snow and just lying their waiting to freeze to death,” she said. “There’s a part of me that’s a survivor and didn’t want to die.”

She says she became a very rebellious, angry woman. This continued until a partner of hers connected her with a doctor at Klinic Community Health Centre. “We did psychotherapy, talk therapy. He helped me. He diagnosed me with certain mental health labels: panic attack disorder, severe depression, post-traumatic stress disorder.

I was put on anti-depressants. He saved my life.” She stuck with this doctor for 17 years while completing other healing programs.

Today’s victories are because of yesterday’s struggles.

1-888-UFCW-832 www.ufcw832.com 16 // www.outwords.ca // October / November 2014

As a part of her healing, Muska says she has forgiven herself and most of her family members. She hasn’t been able to forgive one family member, though, who she says still drunkenly calls her from time to time.

Muska says she wishes she had come forward with her experiences sooner. She says she played the victim for too long and isn’t a victim anymore. “I’m a good person. I’m in a healthy state of mind now. I survived. I’m not a victim anymore and that’s why I want to speak out. I’m not saying I don’t have bad days, but I have more good days.”

She cannot stress enough that people facing abuse should take action as soon as possible. “Don’t be a victim. Get therapy, get the law involved, go on medication if you need to and get yourself talk therapy.”

OutWords strongly suggests contacting the police and seeking therapy if you are being abused in any way. If you or someone you know may need help, please use the following resources: Manitoba Suicide Line: 1-877-435-7170 Crisis Line: (204) 786-8686 Toll free 1-888-322-3019 Sexual Assault Crisis Line: (204) 786-8631 Toll free 1-888-292-7565 TTY Deaf Access Counselling - (204) 784-4097 Manitoba Farm & Rural Support Services: 1-866-367-3276.

Also visit www.supportline.ca to chat online with a counsellor.

WINNIPEG LEGENDS Going Down in Winnipeg GLBT* History

By Meg Crane

W

e asked you who and what Winnipeg’s GLBT* legends are. Here are a few highlights.

Chris Vogel and Richard North’s struggle to be recognized as a married couple was a big deal to our community.

While no one who responded to our survey had trouble coming up with who they thought the most prominent gay or trans person in Winnipeg was, many had trouble identifying prominent lesbians and bi people. So what this says to OutWords staff is that we need a lot more representation from those communities in our media.

Winnipeg is packed with amazing people of all sexualities doing great things and we’re disappointed that we haven’t done a great job of letting you know about the people who belong to those groups. We promise to try harder in future issues if you promise to keep sending us your story ideas so that we’re covering the topics you want to hear.

When we asked “What GLBT* organization (past or present) in Winnipeg will you never forget?” most of you answered the Rainbow Resource Centre. Since the early 1970s, the GLBT* support centre has been helping Winnipeg’s community. They’ve become pretty important for us at OutWords. We actually call RRC home now, since giving up our office in the Exchange District a few months ago. We’re happy to be part of this Winnipeg legend and hope we go down in history with them.

Didn’t get a chance to tell us what you thought? There’s still time! Check out the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/ r/2DSLMR9 and watch for updates to the result on our website.

SEPT 27-JAN 25 • 2 SHOWS • 1 TICKET Masterworks from the Beaverbrook Art Gallery is organized and circulated by the Beaverbrook Art Gallery with the support of the Museums Assistance Program at Canadian Heritage, and supporting sponsor McInnes Cooper.

With the support of the Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí, Figueres.

Philippe Halsman. In order to pass unobserved (Dali’s Mustache) (detail), 1954. © Philippe Halsman Archive. Image rights of Salvador Dalí reserved. Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí, Figueres, 2014.

Meg Crane is the online editor for OutWords and editor-in-chief for Cockroach zine.

dali.exhibits.

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 17 Doowah Design Inc.

.ca

OutWords // Fashion

A TALE OF TWO CITIES F

all is an important month for fashion.

The season sees fashion weeks unfold all over the world to present next year’s spring trends and looks.

For this OutWords feature, we are taking you to the streets of NYC, the place where even in 40 degrees Celsius weather, wearing all black is still cool.

During fashion week in Manhattan you can see a parade of colours, styles, and statements, but we kept it low key.

Jeremy and Roger are two Winnipeggers who were in the city for fashion week.

We collaborated to bring you images that mix both Winnipeg and New York designers, with looks that can be blended in any city, almost any season.

Hair: Roger Medina Styling: Roger Medina (@ pro_ roger) and Jeremy Johnson (@jeremyjnow) Creative, copy and photos: Samanta Katz (@samkat)

18 // www.outwords.ca // October / November 2014

CLOTHES On Roger: T-shirt (hand painted) and pants -Lennard Taylor (Winnipeg) Hat – Tisoré (New York) ON JEREMY: Pants and shirt - Lennard Taylor (Winnipeg) Jacket - Trash and Vaudeville (New York)

OutWords // Fashion

LOCAL, AFFORDABLE AND UNIQUE A big misconception of fashion is that you need to spend a lot to look good. Yes, having unicorn pieces (and by "unicorn," I mean magical and special) is worth the expense, but a lot of times one special piece can bring a whole outfit to the next level. Having a few basics is important to keep it classy.

STYLE, COMFORT & BLENDING IN In a city like New York, most people dress for the whole day. Fashion becomes the art of blending looks that fit work, meetings, social and even extra-curricular activities. If you simply just don’t have the time to go home and change outfits, how can you make your work clothes fit dinner plans and cocktail hour?

Black is always a safe bet. But the most important thing is comfort.

Good news!

Sneakers are coming back. Fashion shows such as Alexander Wang's SS2015 show that comfort can be the new chic.

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 19

OutWords // Fashion

Take a look at some of the fashion trends from the streets of New York.

All photos by Samanta Katz.

20 // www.outwords.ca // October / November 2014

OutWords // Music

The Gaylist

THE GHOSTS AND GHOULS GAYLIST

By Brett Owen

This month I’ve assembled a Halloween playlist, but you won’t find “Thriller” or “Monster Mash” here. This isn’t your average overplayed spooky playlist, these are my choices to help you throw the hippest costume party of all.

Nina Simone I Put A Spell On You OK, I know I said this wouldn’t be one of your run-of-the-mill Halloween playlists, but how could I leave out Nina Simone’s classic tale of magical seduction?

Originally released by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956 and re-popularized in the ‘90s by the quintessential Halloween film Hocus Pocus, I wouldn’t have felt right leaving this one out.

1

Halsey Ghost I toyed with the idea of making this month’s playlist entirely out of songs with the word ghost in the title, but that would have meant leaving out some of my favourite creep-pop. This track just happens to be both.

2

MS MR Bones One of my favourite albums of last year was “Secondhand Rapture” by MS MR. Very consistent in its pop sensibility and mood, “Bones” was the official first single.

3

Róisín Murphy Ramalama (Bang Bang) Genius choreographer Wade Robson used this song for a Victorian-era zombie piece on the second season of So You Think You Can Dance and to this day it is all I can see when I hear this song. Róisín was the lead singer of Moloko until they split. Rumour has it she’s been working on a follow-up to 2007’s “Overpowered.”

4

Northeast House Party The Haunted Another band with a new album on the way, Northeast House Party makes music that contains everything I look for in a pop song—groovy bass, smart lyrics and a grand finale that will knock your socks off. Save this one for when you want your guests to start dancing.

5

Raleigh Ritchie Bloodsport If you’re a fan of HBO’s Game of Thrones you might recognize Jacob Anderson as Grey Worm, the commander of the Unsullied. Nerd. He also goes by Raleigh Ritchie and most of us can probably relate to this song about a relationship that hurts us as much as it helps us.

6

Yeah Yeah Yeahs Heads Will Roll Another one I wouldn’t have been able to exclude—a total necessity at any big gay Halloween party, if only for the glitter filled video. For a little extra kick, try out the A-Trak remix.

9

Dragonette Ghost My favourite band on earth! Dragonette is busy working on the follow-up to 2012’s “Bodyparts.” They’ve got a new song out with Mike Mago called “Outlines,” which is a much more upbeat affair than this one.

This song is about losing a part of yourself to infidelity and it’s the perfect haunting conclusion to this month’s playlist.

10

You can listen to this month’s playlist here: http://8tracks.com/havewemet/ outwords-halloween-october-2014.

If you follow me at Have We Met? on 8tracks you’ll be updated every time I upload a new playlist! I’ll be uploading a new one for OutWords once a month. The online version features five bonus songs.

John Grant Pale Green Ghosts Buckle up, this one sounds like it belongs on a trip through a hall of funhouse mirrors in the Middle East.

It’s trippy, and decidedly so. John Grant tested positive for HIV prior to the recording of this album and the chaotic, dark and often angry tone of the music gives us a pretty good idea of how his diagnosis made him feel.

7

Sir Sly You Haunt Me Sir Sly’s debut album “You Haunt Me” was released on Sept. 16 and it’s a great example of simple, finely crafted indie pop.

8

Brett Owen is a local contemporary dancer/ choreographer, gogo boy at Fame Nightclub and playlist curator.

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 21

OutWords // Features

WHY WE WEAR OUR

RT ON OUR SLEEVES

Compiled by Shandi Strong

Tattoos are a deeply personal and permanent form of expression. Why do we get them? Is the art or the artist more important? We snapped photos of body art from members of the GLBT* community and asked them what their tattoos meant to them. Here are the results.

“An amazing tattoo is when someone looks at it and knows that I have a story to share, a story to be heard. We all want to be heard, though some of us have no words.

This fairy tattoo connects me to my partner who lost her battle with breast cancer after over 20 years together.” –Susan R

“When I look at my tattoos I am reminded of the experience and the special hours I shared with the artist who was creating permanent personal artwork on my body. I am two-spirited and the eagle is from a recurring dream. After participating in rituals and consultation with an elder, I accepted the eagle instead of running from it as I had in my dreams.” –Tamara C.

“For my first ever Pride, about 18 years ago, I got my first Pride tattoo. For me, it was a symbol of overcoming adversity. I got the tattoo before I even fully understood its significance in my life. It shows the world that I will not be judged by anyone for my lifestyle choices.”

–Shaunda P.

“I like video games and I especially like the Legend of Zelda franchise.

I saw the Hylian Shield as a great tattoo idea, and I still think it is.”

–Daniel K.

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“(A tattoo is) there for life, and it should represent something that is consistent in your life. The five feathers represent the significance of (the number) five in my life—five decades, five funerals, five years running a bird banding station and (having) very significant encounters with a great horned owl, my spirit guide.” –Tim M.

“To me, getting a tattoo is all heart, so you have to get what feels right.

There was a girl I really respected in high school who loved Harry Potter, and I feel like I could’ve treated her better. it’s a reminder to be a better person. That, and I do love Harry Potter. It’s the symbol of the Deathly Hallows—the invisibility cloak is the triangle, the resurrection stone is the circle and the elder wand is the line.” –Serena V.

“Rosie the Riveter was a symbol to call women to work during the Second World War, forever changing how women were viewed in the workforce. She eventually became a symbol for feminists in the ‘80s.

The modification to include the upside down triangle on her button is a personal one, signifying that I am a feminist and a lesbian.”

–Jennifer W.

“I reflected on myself as I completed transition and embarked on a new and wonderful life. Balance, strength and energy yield the power to change…I designed my tattoo and it brought me peace because I chose to embrace that which is at the very core of my being. I remember while Katrina was doing the work how amazing it was for me to be taking another step for no one else but myself.” –Shandi S.

OutWords // Features

“I got my tattoo to commemorate my ggrandmother, Florence Weiss, who has Alzheimer’s disease. I chose to symbolize my grandma through flowers of her nationality.

The sunflower represents Ukraine, the red poppy celebrates her Polish heritage and the prairie crocus displays that she spent most of her life in Manitoba. I chose to intertwine these flowers with forget-me-nots to represent how her friends and family will never forget about her or how selfless she was.” –Samara F.

“It’s small, bright and simple—a “Trivial Pursuit” playing piece. I am an intelligent person with a thirst for knowledge. My tattoo represents those aspects of me and, as a member of the LGBT* community, I wanted the rainbow to be a part of me. It’s a permanent mark on my soul, reminding me that I have grown and become stronger than I was in the past.”

–Shannon F.

“This tattoo was originally just going to be designed for my love for owls. Turned out a few months before I decided to get this tattoo my family found out my uncle had esophagus cancer with a two per cent chance of survival. He was always the bravest person I had ever met… he still went through all of the medical treatments and kept his head held high. This is why I chose the owl with glasses as a sign of bravery and knowledge…

As for the talking candy hearts “Dream, Love, Cure” comes from my favourite organization, Skate 4 Cancer, run by a young man named Rob Dyer.” –Jennifer D.

“I believe everyone’s story starts somewhere. And until your ‘ever after’ is a happy one, your story is still being written.” –Kerry D.

“People often tell me getting tattoos was for them like an addiction.

I’ve only ever been sure twice.

Once when I yearned for my Prairie hometown and once when I found my way home again and realized what I’d left behind.” –Raquel B.

“It’s the three little birds… from the Bob Marley song! My mom has a matching tattoo. They’re meant to remind us, ‘don’t worry about a thing because everything little thing is going to be alright.’”

–Allison D.

TATTOOS

from a former Gio’s volunteer Katrina Fuchs, a tattoo artist for more than three years, opened Rising Phoenix Body Art on Sherbrook Street just one year ago.

“Approximately one quarter of my clients are openly part of the LGBT* community, and a lot more are supporters,” said Fuchs.

“Despite what looks like one piece, my tattoos were done as four separate ones… I got the crown after one of my best friends passed away just short of his 23rd birthday—he had the same one. The flowers (plumeria) on either side represent my two life-changing backpacking trips to South America and southeast Asia. The writing is to remind me that no matter what happens, life must go on. The tree was my most recent piece. I have always loved trees (maybe bordering on obsession), and this reminds me to keep in touch with nature and to respect our Earth.” –Julie N.

Fuchs credits the community’s inclusivity as part of the reason for her success. Many people tend to feel more comfortable at Rising Phoenix than at your typical tattoo shop because they know Fuchs from her time spent volunteering at Gio’s Club and Bar well before it closed. “It’s led to some great repeat business,” she said.

Visit risingphoenixwpg.com for more information.

Shandi Strong has been active in the LGBT* community for over a decade.

She is a past vice-president of the Oscar Wilde Memorial Society and volunteers at the Rainbow Resource Centre. She is expanding her role in the community as an advocate for trans rights.

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 25

OutWords // Arts

GLBT* comic culture must-reads

Wonderfully Weird

By Gina Dascal

Before you go to Comic Con, make sure you check out GLBT* comics!

Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic

Comic Con transforms Convention Centre into surreal dream Oct. 31

O

nce a year since 2006, it seems a portal from another dimension magically appears in Winnipeg.

It happens about the end of October and the first days of November. A strange gate opens wide to a place where many worlds collide: sci-fi, anime and, of course, the wide world of comics. This is the universe of C-4, also known as Central Canada Comic Con 2014.

From Oct. 31 until Nov. 2, the C-4 will be welcoming people of all ages to the RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg.

Like many other comic conventions around the world, it provides the opportunity for pop culture fans, artists and celebrities to get together and geek out. Among the fun activities at Comic Con are competitive costume contests, opportunities to chill with TV personalities and chances to get to know great artists of the medium.

This year, special guests at the Convention Centre include “Lost Girl” cast members Rick Howland and Paul Amos; former “Star Trek” actors John de Lancie, Nicole de Boer and Denise Crosby; Kris HoldenRied of “The Tudors”; and Peter Hambleton, Graham McTavish, Jed Brophy and Adam Brown of

“The Hobbit.” As for artists, you will have the possibility to get closer to the likes of legendary Jose Delbo (Transformers), Lovern Kindzierski (The X-Men and Sarah Wilkinson (Lucasfilm).

Above all, maybe the coolest part about the C-4 or any Comic Con, is the amazing atmosphere teeming with diversity, where everyone can express their passion for whatever they like without feeling judged.

The comic genre wasn’t quite as tolerant decades ago. In fact, GLBT*-related topics and characters were non-existent due to post-war paranoid prejudices fuelled by works like the book Seduction of the Innocent, which stated that there was an immoral factor in superhero comics that supposedly led teenagers to be gay and, therefore, criminals.

The backwards mentality gave birth to the 1954 Comics Code, responsible for the omission of everything GLBT*-related from mainstream comics until 1989.

Aside from Japanese Yaoi and Yuri (manga focused on gay and lesbian relationships), the only place to find GLBT* content during the ‘70s was in underground independent comics, also known as comix.

In the underground context, artists had the freedom to explore topics such as

26 // www.outwords.ca // October / November 2014

sexuality and gender identity, often under progressive political ideals. They moved towards projects that were actually aimed at the GLBT* community with publications like Gay Comix (1980), where gay, lesbian and trans artists shared their works.

Thanks to the bravery of artists and publishers who didn’t give up the fight, GLBT* themes started to find a place within mainstream comics since the 1990s.

Today, a broader spectrum of publications offer something appropriate for everyone, be they superhero fans, journalism enthusiasts or people looking for advice through stories. Even big companies like DC Comics and Marvel have finally realized something many comic lovers knew long ago: the world should be a big convention to which we’re all invited.

Gina Dascal is a Winnipeg-based writer with a background in aesthetics and cultural studies.

by Alison Bechdel Before Bechdel became a best-selling comic artist, she grew up a curious girl whose family business was set in a small-town funeral home, ruled by her passionate, yet distant, father.

While she struggled to express her true identity and come out as a lesbian, the chaos in Bechdel’s life reached a whole new level when her father passed away and it’s revealed that he was secretly gay. This very detailed and intimate autobiography will not leave you indifferent.

Batwoman

by J. H. Williams III and W. Haden Blackman This modern version of Gotham’s crime-fighter Kathy Kane—who was originally created in 1956 to help dispel rumours that Batman and Robin were in a relationship—had an important makeover. Kane now offers readers much more interesting features; she hangs out with an all-female super hero team, she’s Jewish and she’s a lesbian.

Husbands

by Jane Espenson and Brad Bell Set in a world of fantastic adventures, this comic version of the sitcom of the same name follows newly married couple Cheeks and Brady. After dealing with a difficult conjugal life, the men now have to face equally tough challenges while crime fighting, mystery solving and learning to trust each other. Originally a web comic, the new hard-cover comic features an introduction from legendary author and ally Neil Gaiman.

Young Avengers

by Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie The epic series about a team of young superheroes has been given the distinctive Marvel treatment: it’s packed with exciting action scenes, suspense and a sexy, stylish look.

Plus, the comic has a straightforward GLBT*-friendly attitude; the young heroes portrayed explore their sexuality and are open to talking about the subject. This is one of the first publications in the superhero vein to introduce openly bisexual characters.

OutWords // Books & Movies

REEL PRIDE HIT LIST Boy Meets Girl A heartbreaking and entertaining romantic trans comedy

By Larkin Schmiedl

HOME-GROWN REEL PRIDE

By Larkin Schmiedl

Winnipeg’s Reel Pride is back this year with new community alliances and events alongside finelycrafted tales of love, human rights and GLBT* lives.

R

eel Pride is kicking of f with a prefestival teaser at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights on Oct. 7.

Audiences will be treated to films like Forbidden Love, a gem of Canadian lesbian history chronicling stories of women who sought same-sex love in socially unacceptable times. The Matthew Shepard Story will show, too.

From Oct. 14 to 19, the Gas Station Arts Centre will serve as a central hub for the festival’s many showings.

Eric Plamondon, who does marketing for Reel Pride, said the fest is excited to open with film 52 Tuesdays, which is centred on a teenage girl dealing

with her mother’s gender transition to a trans man.

“It fits in the next wave of human rights,” he said.

Now that mainstream society has picked up on trans rights, Reel Pride is hoping the cutting-edge trans films it has shown for years will keep the

also on the program. And to end the festival on a hilarious note, Reel Pride is bringing in Trevor Boris, the star of Video on Trial, to perform at the Gas Station Arts Centre. Local comedian Al Rae will host and, Winnipeg comedian Chantel Marostica will perform one

Reel Pride is bringing in Trevor Boris, star of Video on Trial. momentum rolling.

Big-name films like Love is Strange, the story of an older gay couple in Manhattan, will also screen.

The short film competition will be back, as will the beer tent acting as B-reel venue, seeing thematic programs like a selection of short films that “run the gamut of the [queer] alphabet,” said Plamondon.

A partnership with l’Alliance Française will offer audiences short and long subtitled features from prominent French filmmakers, such as François Ozon, whose films are known for their unconstrained depictions of human sexuality.

After-parties at The Good Will and Fame Nightclub are

of her last shows in the city before she moves to Toronto.

Tickets are $10 per show, or a four-show pass for $30.

For $60, attendees can see it all, including access to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Plamondon added that, “if somebody self-identifies as having lesser means, we will accept whatever they can afford.”

Accessibility includes unisex washrooms and wheelchair access at the Gas Station Arts Centre.

Visit reelpride.org for more details, or find a program downtown.

W

atch this movie.

Funny and engaging, Boy Meets Girl sees 21-year-old Ricky and her best friend Robbie in small town Kentucky, where they grew up.

Sexual tensions play out alongside the tensions of trans life in this film that reveals small-town relationships as nuanced rather than stereotyped. Played by trans woman Michelle Hendley, the story centres on Ricky’s romantic life and the complex web of relationships she negotiates.

Rich flashbacks of the past are by turns heartbreaking and entertaining. This story is not about Ricky’s transition, but her whole life, and by virtue of that, an entire town.

Her gender history is revealed early on as she develops a relationship with her first lesbian object of affection, Francesca, who is engaged to be married to a local marine.

The situations Ricky faces display her incredible inner strength, built up over a lifetime of experience. She defends herself when necessary with matter-of-fact fierce wit. The behaviours she faces and the emotions she feels will be recognizable to most trans people.

Confident and wise, she is held by the town around her.

This 99-minute film from director Eric Shaeffer will leave you connected in its sweet depth.

Larkin Schmiedl is a freelance journalist living and working in Vancouver, B.C.

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 27

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Friday, October 31st

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Dr. Dick Smith Four Rivers Medical Clinic, 647 Broadway Phone: 204.786.8588

The 2014 Miss Club 200 Pageant

GLAMAZON A Black Tie Affair

November 14th & 15th, 2014 More Info and Applications Available NOW at the Bar

OutWords OutWords // Columns // Lifestyle & Opinions & Food

TO LOVE THEM IS TO VOYAGE GayDestinationWeddings.com releases online magazine

By Eric Plamondon

G

ayDestinationWeddings.com, a GLBT*-focused travel company, recently launched its first online magazine titled Voyage. The publication aims to inspire romance travels or destination weddings for gay couples. Currently there are 16 countries that recognize same-sex marriage and several sub-jurisdictions in places like Mexico and the United States. The spread of these legal realities means destination weddings are a viable option for gay couples. Thanks to Voyage, daydreaming romantics and engaged couples can turn their gazes to Brazil, France, Island, Spain, South Africa or New Zealand.

With barely any ads, the magazine is literally filled with inspirational ideas and people.

The fact the magazine lives online makes it easily accessible.

Readers can flip through the pages and be inspired by diverse couples who have embraced their love for one another and have decided to spend a bit of their pink dollars showing it off. Creators assure us that these are “real weddings” and that the goal is to get our “creative gears turning.” With barely any ads, the magazine is literally filled with inspirational ideas and people. But yes, we are aware that the magazine in and of itself is a giant ad for GayDestinationWeddings.com and the services they offer.

The first wedding to discover is that of Or and Yossi, who combine traditional Jewish culture with modern chic style in the very exotic Bora Bora (French Polynesia). This picture story is followed by Amanda and Jackie who adopted the fairy-tale wedding approach in Cancun (Mexico). By this time you will recognize the formula of most magazines of this nature. It just happens to feature same-sex couples. It’s no secret that we are attracted to seeing people in love in picturesque locations around the world. With same-sex marriage gaining legal ground around the world, Voyage is right to claim “our time has come” and show the world that “love is love.”

Eric Plamondon is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.

Photo from Shutterstock

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 29

OutWords // Lifestyle Coulmns & Opinions

Spirituality

Simple, affordable, and super-creepy DIY zombie tutorial

By Shayna Wiwierski Model: Stephen Ellingson

B

reak out the fake blood and tattered clothing, it’s about to get real creepy in here.

From the annual zombie walk to The Walking Dead (swoon, Norman Reedus…), zombies are on everyone’s radar.

Doing “zombie” can be a great Halloween costume because you can zombie practically anything (wedding zombie, Hello Kitty zombie, construction worker zombie, slutty zombie...), but when it comes to actually getting into character, well, we’ve seen good and we’ve seen bad.

Fortunately, us at OutWords want to throw you a bone (not literally), and show you that your inner zombie can come out pretty easily and affordably. No, you don’t need to get all fancy with prosthetic parts. All you need is some tissue, liquid latex, face paint, and if you really want to get into the spirit, fake blood.

Step one

1

With a tissue, rip apart the layers until you have one thin layer. Then, carefully rip it into a jagged oval. Do this three times. This will act as your wound.

2

Step two With liquid latex, glue the tissue on your face, layering it as it dries. Leave it on your face for five minute to fully dry. In the meantime, grab your face paint and start painting your face.

Apply lots of black and red under your eyes to create a hollow effect.

3

Step three With your nail scissors, carefully cut vertically up the centre of the “wound.” The tissue may really be glued down depending on how much liquid latex you used, so do this slowly and carefully to avoid actually cutting your face, or neck depending on where you place the tissue.

4

Step four Paint the “wound” with face makeup and with your brush, open the gash.

The different layers of tissue should be apparent here for a more authentic look. For full effect, apply some fake blood oozing out of the wound.

Things you’ll need • Liquid latex—pick this up at any party or Halloween store; • Face paint in red, black and white; • Nail scissors; • Cosmetic sponges; • Foundation brush; and • Fake blood.

30 // www.outwords.ca // October / November 2014

To finish up, make sure you paint onto your neck and ears, and going down your chest. To get really fancy, pop in a pair of bloodshot contacts for a more authentic appearance.

Shayna Wiwierski is the lifestyle & food editor of OutWords. She is also a beauty blogger at apopofcolour.com.

Keep calm and zombie on

OutWords // Coulmns & Opinions

Spirituality

I

ntroduction: Many spiritual writers are involved in a movement that uses the language of conscious awareness and awakening, which contain ancient wisdom that has been repackaged—a reawakening of previous knowledge.

Many individuals throughout history and now are taking ownership and responsibility for the wisdom that has been handed down. I speak of two such individuals in this article who have put themselves out there. Looking at the entirety of their life journeys, we can trust our own life journeys and survival and appreciate where we are at this time.

E

Ragne Kabanova / Shutterstock.com

OSCAR WILDE AND JESUS OF NAZARETH

By Ray Buteau

ntering the coffee shop to meet the three amigos for the second time, Robert with coffee in hand says, “It’s great to meet the three of you again, I see that you’re in a hot discussion already.

What’s up?”

Jan, not to be overshadowed, speaks up and says, “Hi Robert, we’re discussing who we consider historical legends."

Robert asked, “How did you get on that topic?

With a sarcastic smile on his face, Danny perks up and says, “Well, we were expecting you and it’s the topic of our youth group tonight.”

Jan bursts out, “Here we go!”

After a greeting, Tom says, “For me, Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar are legends, especially since both were gay.”

“Speaking of gays, how about two of our lesbians, Joan of Arc and Florence Nightingale,” adds Jan. “Let me ask,” insists Danny. “And for you Robert, who’s your legend?”

“Oscar Wilde and Jesus of Nazareth, two men I wrote about who had three similar characteristics,” adds Robert.

Almost in unison, and using similar words, all three exclaim, “You’ve got to be kidding.”

Robert says, “Both men were persecuted for revealing their true life and living the life that they felt was right for them.”

“So did Robin Hood,” added Danny, as

we smile back at him in recognition.

Looking intrigued, Tom asked, “You said they have something else in common?”

“Both used their celebrity status. Oscar was the first famous person to speak out about his homosexuality; and Jesus used his fame to speak out against injustice towards those considered as outsiders, as many of us are considered and treated even today,” answers Robert.

“Then there’s Michelangelo?” Tom adds.

“And our Gertrude Stein,” adds Jan. Tom continues, “Robert you said there was a third similarity between them.”

“Yes” answered Robert. “They both had similar skills and talents, Oscar with his writing skills, and Jesus with his public speaking skills. Along with their personalities and lifestyles, each captured the attention of their societies, even if many had problems accepting their messages.”

“We have so many men and women coming out today who are actors, athletes, writers, artists, I wonder if any will be seen as legends some day?,” Jan adds.

“By the sounds of it they’ll have to have been dead for at least a hundred years and still famous,” adds Danny.

Tom continues to be intrigued by Robert’s choices and asks, “When did we start speaking about Oscar Wilde?”

Robert answers: “The gay rights movement used Oscar as an example of how a brilliant famous writer could suffer shame and fear in the name of love. He became a symbol of heroism for trying to defend the love between an older and younger man, claiming that it was a fine and noble form of affection.”

“That explains why they were killed, but where does all this place my legends of Count Dracula and the Loch Ness Monster,” Danny added without smiling.

This time Robert, adding his voice to the others, jokingly responds, “You’ve got to be kidding.”

Ray Buteau is a former Catholic priest and author of the book No Longer Lonely. You can visits Ray’s website at www.raybuteausweb.com.

October / November 2014 // www.outwords.ca // 31

KNOWL

EDGE IS

ENGAG WWW.U

CN.CA

ING

MY KNOWLEDGE will do many things IT MIGHT protect my community OR MAYBE teach a child MY KNOWLEDGE, EARNED AT UCN. At UCN, your success as a student is our top priority. But being a student is about more than lectures and exams, and we have many student services that will help you both succeed and feel a part of our community.

Our many student services welcome you into the UCN community. Each campus has a residence, food services, counselors, computer labs, and an Aboriginal centre.

For more information, visit www.ucn.ca or call 866.627.8500 (The Pas) and 866.677.6450 (Thompson).

OWN YOUR FUTURE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF THE NORTH