outwords queer views, news, issues
LaRon E. Nelson investigates an
invisible world
queer elvira’s apple’s (in)justice queer side rainbow CEO
pride at a crossroads
Outwords | October 2011 | Issue 187 | Serving the GLBT Community Since 1994
book by
music by
lyrics by
Dan Remmes Neil Berg Nick Meglin based on the warner bros. film written by Mark Steven Johnson produced with Warner Bros. permission of Theatre Ventures directed by Bill Castellino
Oct. 13 – NOv. 5
conrad John Schuck
ticketS ON SAle now!
| PReVieWS OCT. 10, 11 & 12
Susan Anton
Max (Conrad John Schuck, M*A*S*H) and John (John Rubinstein, Desperate Housewives) are two long-time rivals fighting over their beautiful and eccentric new neighbour Ariel (Susan Anton, Stop Susan Williams). This poignant and laugh-out-loud musical stays true to the warmth and humour of the hit movie.
2011/12 season
g g ing in tin t at a la ull u imu im tim t st s s
s e i r Sto eLectric
at the Warehouse. The atmosphere is But don’t take our word for it. SubScribe now and see what the buzz is about!
4 YnSly PLA mo
fro
$
57
SUBSCRIBE NOW! Doowah Design Inc.
John Rubinstein
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
5 the wacky
13 apple ceo
gop race
editorial
breaks the glass ceiling technology
14 One
26 MARY
is combatting opression
TROUBLED PAST
canadian
GAUTHIER’S
6 chili starts international news
at the hands of the police
8 layton’s funeral
and the gay connection national news
pride
injustice
24 cool jazz
winnipeg style
suffering from sudcess
22 EROTICISM AT THE OPERA SOMETHING MAGICAL THIS WAY COMES
18 elivra
20 queer
warming
10 winnipeg
camping it up with the mistress of the dark
29 Brooklynn’s keeping it simple off the menu
9
housing discrimination national news
30
97
%
of Red River College graduates looking for work found jobs. With over 110 full-time programs, Red River College provides a wide range of hands-on training to prepare you for a successful career. Discover all of the degree, joint-degree, diploma, and certificate programs available at Manitoba’s largest institute of applied learning. *Source: 2008/09 Graduate Satisfaction and Employment Report
www.rrc.ca
this
STAY ALERT PULL OVER. Please Yield the Right of Way to Emergency Vehicles
outwords
editorial
Serving the GLBT Community Since 1994 Issue 187• October 2011
Published by the outwords volunteer staff:
Rachel Morgan editor
One person’s heaven …
Gord McDiarmid General manager
M. Buchanan art director & layout
editorial rachel j. morgan
A year from now, Americans
Devin Frezzi
Ron Paul, a libertarian who has been called the “intellectual godfather” of the Tea
Advertising Relations Co-ordinator
will cast their votes for president. Already,
Party. Between them, they collected about
Barry Karlenzig
Republicans are gearing up for the 2012
56 percent of the votes. No one else came
Financial officer
election. This one could prove to be weird-
close. Since then, Bachman’s popularity has
Terry Wiebe, Gord McDiarmid distribution
er than the last.
dipped, possibly because Tea Partiers and
Vic Hooper
war hero John McCain and former Alaska
seeing a woman in the oval office. Texas
governor Sarah Palin. McCain is a man one
Governor Rick Perry is now the leading
can admire on many counts, but Palin was
candidate. He carries a gun while jogging,
a full-blown circus act. McCain chose her
wants creationism taught in schools and
as his running mate because she attracted
says same-sex marriage should be banned.
web manager
Charis Hernandez Office manager
Rachel Morgan, Corey Shefman, Michele Buchanan, Katrina Caudle, Peter Carlyle-Gordge, Shannon Vanraes, Kenton Smith, Barb Burkowski, Jason Clevett , Nancy Renwick
In 2008, Barack Obama faced aging
the Christian right with her conservative family values. Comedians feasted on her
contributors to this issue
goofy pronouncements about geo-politics
Debbie Scarborough, Darron Field , Helen Fallding, Shayne Duguay, Gail Eckert Scott Carman
and the economy. The rest you know. This year, evangelical Christians – and
board of directors
the Tea Party – have found a new Joan of
outwords
Arc to carry their banner in place of Palin.
201-63 Albert St. Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 1G4 Phone: (204) 942-4599 For office hours, please call. General Inquiries: info@outwords.ca
Her name is Michele Bachmann. She’s a 55-year-old congresswoman from Minnesota who has the same telegenic looks that helped make Palin a favourite of Fox
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
News. But she’s a lot more driven – a kind
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.
values to government. Bachmann is against
white evangelicals ultimately have trouble
Evangelical Christians – and the Tea Party – have found a new Joan of Arc to carry their banner in place of Palin
He also calls social security a Ponzi scheme and unconstitutional. He’s just as nutty as Bachmann but has the advantage of being male. Whoever
of Palin on steroids. Why is Bachmann
Obama faces will most likely be someone
so popular with religious conservatives?
who has the blessing of the Tea Party and
Because she believes she was chosen by
Christian fundamentalists. It’s easy to see
God to dedicate her life to fighting secular
Perry as the candidate with Bachmann
humanism and restoring Christian family
playing the role Palin played last time. Should GLBT and socially progressive
reproductive rights. She believes gays can
Americans be afraid? Obama’s approval
be “cured” with “reparative therapy.” She
rating has been below 50 per cent for two
wants to reinstate the ban on gays serving
years – and sinking. He will be vulnerable.
openly in the military. She wants creation-
But some pundits say not enough voters
ism taught in schools.
will take any of the Republican candidates
Bachmann is one of 16 people who launched campaigns in the summer to
seriously. On the other hand, if enough disil-
become the next Republican presidential
lusioned Obama supporters stay home
nominee. In August, Bachmann won the
instead of voting, Obama will be in trouble.
Iowa Straw Poll, which is seen as a spring-
In that case, we will discover what America
board for Republican candidates. She nar-
with the Tea Party in the White House
rowly beat 76-year-old Texas Congressman
would look like. Won’t that be fun. O
www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
5
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Chile eyes civil unions for gays Marriage not an option SANTIAGO, CHILE—Sebastian Pinera, the
able to enter a legal contract called the Life Partner Agreement. Opposition to gay marriage is widespread in Chile, with the Catholic Church leading opposition. Chile only legalized divorce in 2004. Pinera is
ST. PETERSBURT, FLA—Two Florida court
also opposed to full gay marriage.
cases have found that HIV transmis-
president of Chile, has proposed legalizing civil unions for gay and straight couples, saying that all couples deserve “respect, dignity and the support of the state.”
Gay sexual intercourse impossible
Rainbow retirement down under
sion laws, which criminalize withholding HIV status from a partner, only apply to straight couples. One case involved two men in central Florida, who were roman-
A new bill, which
BALLAN, AUSTRALIA—Work on Australia’s
tically involved for four years, without
must be approved
first gay, lesbian and bisexual retirement
one knowing the other’s HIV status. The
by Congress, would
village is to begin next year. A 120-unit
victim, who has not been named, claimed
give gay couples and
complex is being built in Ballan in Victoria.
to have found out about his partner’s
straight unmarried
It includes a croquet lawn, indoor spa
status after they broke up. But the state’s
couples the same
and bar. Developer Peter Dickson told the
20-year-old law, which criminalizes with-
inheritance and social
Geelong Advertiser that more than 200
holding one’s HIV status, was held only to
welfare rights as mar-
people around the world had contacted
apply to straight couples.
ried couples.
him to find out more about the Linton
Couples who have
Estate retirement village. It will cost $30
the statute applies only to sex between
been together for
million to build and will be a friendly ha-
a man and a woman. The statute makes
over a year will be
ven for the older LGBT community.
it a crime for someone with HIV to have
The 2nd District Court of Appeal held
EXTERNAL INFLUENCES 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.
The ways we express love and desire are regularly met with a range of negative responses even when they mirror forms of heterosexual expression. Know that we can do things for ourselves to lessen the impact of homophobia, oppression, heterosexism and heteronormativity to our health and well-being.
HOMOPHOBIA is hostility and social beliefs that stigmatize GLBTTQ people. Examples include: homophobic jokes and imitations, physical attacks, denying appropriate health care and discrimination in the workplace. OPPRESSION expressed externally is any form of inequality directed at a group of people, such as racism. Oppression can also affect us internally such as our own negative attitudes and beliefs about being GLBTTQ.
HETEROSEXISM is the engrained assumption that people’s sexual orientation falls into a simple and prescribed belief that one gender is attracted to the other gender. HETERONORMATIVITY is a cultural bias that assumes heterosexuality is the norm. This includes punitive rules that force us to conform to heterosexual standards. Examples include: under representation of samesex couples in advertising and religious bias against samesex couples.
www.getiton.ca, the GLBTT* Sexual Health Promotion Coalition website, promotes sexual health awareness to help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STI).
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
“sexual intercourse” without their part-
previously and fathered three children
both sexes were, in fact, gay. The findings,
ner’s “consent”, and the only definition
with her before they divorced in 2004.
by Northwestern University, Illinois, were
for “sexual intercourse” in Floridian law
At the time, it was agreed she would
the result of a more detailed look at sexual
refers specifically to sex between men and
keep custody of the children. Then in
attraction in men after a previous study
women.
early 2011, Flowers married Jim Evans in
failed to find any evidence of bisexuality
Connecticut, and began proceedings to
in test subjects who identified as such.
Second dad denied
claim custody. A jury decided Flowers’ ex-
Released in the Biological Psychology jour-
wife should retain custody of the children,
nal this summer, the new research found
HOUSTON, TEX—A Texas judge has told
with his visitation rights continuing. But
“bisexual patterns of both subjective and
a Texan man he
County Associate Judge, Charley Prine, Jr,
genital arousal” in test subjects. Their
cannot leave his
has also ruled that Flowers cannot leave
2005 study had not claimed bisexuality
children in the care
the children alone with any man “not
did not exist, but said that they had yet
of the man he mar-
related by blood or adoption”, including
to find evidence for it. Many subjects who
ried. Texas does
his husband.
identified as bisexual in the latest study
not recognize the marriage between William Flowers and Jim Evans
Bisexual traits discovered
who were married
CHICAGO, ILL—Scientists claim to have
in Connecticut.
discovered bisexual traits in men, whereas
Flowers had been
their previous and controversial research
married to a woman
found those claiming to be attracted to
exhibited signs of arousal to both men and women, compared with those in the previous study, who resembled gay men in their reactions. – Peter Carlyle-Gordge is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
IT’S NOT EASY “OUT THERE” Homophobia, Oppression, Heterosexism and Heteronormativity Impact Us
Educating people about GLBTTQ issues is one way of combatting oppression, but it can also be an exhausting job that never seems to end.
www.getiton.ca
There are many resources as well as organizations whose mission is to combat homophobia and heterosexism. So don’t worry if you feel like this task is too much for you alone. Our website: www.getiton.ca is a good starting point that includes a list of resources to direct people who are ignorant and curious about GLBTTQ issues.
Just remember while each person is responsible for their own thoughts, actions, and opinions, it is not your job to prove anything or to change anyone!
Free safer sex products are available at Nine Circles Community Health Centre and Rainbow Resource Centre.
&
INSIDE
INS & IDE
OU T
Fear not! Taking charge of our lives can lessen the impact.
Request a full copy of “Inside and OUT” at coordinator@getiton.ca or download it from our website at
OUT
Evidence shows that GLBTTQ Canadians face higher rates of: unemployment and underemployment, poverty, illness and mental health issues, childhood sexual abuse, addictions and suicide.
NATIONAL NEWS
Pink pastor leads orange funeral for Jack Layton
party leader to whip for votes when Parliament passed the same-sex marriage law. Citing equality, Layton said the NDP must stand united in favour of it. NDP MP Bev Desjarlais voted against the bill, but was
Loophole for marriage commissioners?
later relieved of her critic’s duties and later
REGINA—In
forced from the NDP caucus.
the wake of a court ruling
Money for nothing
TORONTO—Rev. Dr. Brent Hawkes, pastor of the gay-affirming Metropolitan Community Church in Toronto, was front and centre at the state funeral of the late NDP Opposition Leader Jack Layton when he was laid to rest in late August. Hawkes and Layton were close friends and the NDP leader had discussed arrangements for his funeral not long before his untimely death from cancer. A deeply committed friend of the LGBT community, Layton was a vigorous supporter of HIV/ AIDS activism in the early years of the pandemic. In 1990, he played a crucial role in brokering peace between the city and gay bathhouse operators who had been raided by police. In 2009 he also called on the government to compensate gay men and women who were discharged from the military for being gay or lesbian. In 2005, Layton was credited by many for the success of Canada’s national samesex marriage bill when he was the only
deeming it unconstitutional for mar-
TORONTO— The Canadian Broadcast
riage com-
Standards Council says a homosexual slur
missioners to
using the ‘fag’ word in the Dire Straits hit
turn away gay
“Money for Nothing” is inappropriate but
couples, the
has to be taken in context and suggests
Saskatchewan
individual radio stations choose whether
government
the song is acceptable.
is considering
The CRTC had asked for
whether there is another way to ac-
a review of
commodate civil servants who refuse
the council’s
to officiate at same-sex unions.
January ban
Justice Minister Don Mor-
on the song,
gan said the Saskatchewan Party
which created
government is looking at what is
a strong public
being done in Ontario, where – in
backlash. The
Toronto, for instance – marriage
council origi-
commissioners can essentially opt
nally ruled the
out of performing same-sex mar-
1985 song was
riages because of their religious
unfit for radio because its lyrics
beliefs. “We’ve got some clarity had an anti-gay
of some of the things we can’t do, but
slur. The council now says the original
before we close the door on it or go down
decision was correct in deeming the song
a particular path, we want to do a careful
inappropriate but the context of the tune
review and analysis,” Morgan told the
must be taken into consideration. The majority of the council’s panel felt
Regina Leader-Post. The provincial Court of Appeal decision has inflamed an old dis-
the song used the word satirically and not
cussion about whether gay rights super-
in a hateful manner. Opponents of lan-
sede religious freedoms. The key question
guage police and state interference with
is whether marriage commissioners can be
freedom of expression claimed the whole
forced to officiate at ceremonies regard-
exercise was a waste of time and money.
less of their convictions.
204.985.9200 OUTNABOUTTRAVEL.COM 8
outwords, october 2011 // www.outwords.ca
NATIONAL NEWS
Housing discrimination VANCOUVER—A University of British Columbia Sociology Department study claims same-sex male couples are 25 per cent more likely to face discrimination in the Metro Vancouver housing market compared with straight couples. “Vancouver has a reputation for tolerance of diversity in North America and a vibrant gay community,” says lead author Prof Nathanael Lauster. “This means that housing discrimination levels may even be higher in other cities.” The report found no significant differences in landlord responses to female same-sex couples relative to heterosexual couples.
seum, says it will feature queer content
deals with the experiences of queer refu-
throughout the museum, so it’s not
gees to Canada. Sections on the Holo-
really in one specific area. She says
caust will also deal with the experiences of
they feel the struggle for GLBT rights
gays and lesbians.
is important and it will run as a kind of current throughout the museum. Hinther says topics they will be look-
Hinther says there will also be queerthemed programming or special events in the future. As exhibits are developed,
ing at include resistance to discrimination
museum administrators will again consult
against the queer community, grassroots
with an advisory panel, of which Egale
activism in the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, the
Canada’s Helen Kennedy is a member.
movements that demanded rights, and exhibits on same-sex marriage rights. Also covered is an exhibit on refugees, which
– Peter Carlyle-Gordge is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer
GLBT content in museum WINNIPEG—The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is set to open sometime in 2013, and the inaugural suite of exhibits is being prepared now. Dr Rhonda Hinther, head of research and curator at the mu-
www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
9
Success creates new challenges
Winnipeg Pride at a crossroads
By Barb Burkowski
As this year’s Pride committee sets up for Winnipeg’s milestone event, it is faced with a similar conundrum Winnipeg is facing itself. How big are we? Is Pride Winnipeg a “big-city” event and if so, how big are we?
10
outwords, october 2011 // www.outwords.ca
How do we manage the growth of the
just maybe, some extra to start the next
last two years? Pride is not a progres-
year. Noteworthy, to the common question
sively developed event in the way other city festivals – Fringe Fest, Folk Fest, Jazz Fest, grew in the last decade. Perhaps that’s because because all these events charge admission, while Pride does not charge to be part of the
The biggest challenge of rapid growth for Pride is human resources.
celebration. But don’t wor-
Clearly, one of the challenges brought by the growth of Pride is financial. Finan-
– Why is the Pride party on
cial backing is definitely not a given and
Sunday?
requires negotiation and relationship build-
Answer: Pride always
ing; a special talent from a special volunteer.
supported the opportunity
Pride is benefiting from sponsors who have
for the bars to profit from
embraced us, not just as a market, but as
one of the biggest nights
true proponents of diversity changes for a
of the year, Saturday. Out
safe workplace and dedicated supporters of
of respect for their finan-
the queer community.
cial stability, Pride holds the dance party on Sunday
The operating budget from 2009, approximately $10,000, grew to approxi-
ry, Pride is not going there in 2012.
night, to close out Pride week. You already
mately $100,000 in 2010. A 1,000 per cent
In 2009, The Forks Corporation
know the date for next year, June 3 – if you
increase. In 2010, Pride stepped out the
need to, book Monday off now.
uncertain money shadow of the dance party
invited Pride (then known as the Winnipeg Lesbian and Gay Pride Festival Inc.) to celebrate Pride Day 2010 at The Forks. This was huge! It gave Pride Winnipeg “big-event” status and even though it broke routine in several ways, it was exciting and justifying to celebrate at the Forks – the meeting place of all Winnipeggers and a space to morph into a “bigger” city event. Until 2009, Pride followed a routine pattern, with the parade starting at the Manitoba Legislature grounds, following the rectangle around downtown, and ending at Memorial Park. The stage, business tent and toilets were all in the usual place. We know Winnipeggers like consistency and routine. They knew where to park and where to find their friends, just as they had every year. As a committee, Pride had the planning down, and Pride was an annual good time. Prior to 2010, the only real source of income for Pride was the dance party. The Rendez-Vous, in particular and arguably the most memorable of Pride events was the pinnacle money source for Pride for many years. Until amounts unknown until the last mo-
Pap tests help prevent cervical cancer.
ment of the final event, would hope-
(204) 788-8626 1-866-616-8805
2010, the dance party’s profits, dollar
fully, cover the year’s expenses, and www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
11
and discovered sponsorship, supporting big name talent on The Forks Stage. It also brought income from the long-awaited beer tent and the introduction of Queer Beer, made by Winnipeg’s own Half Pints Brewery. In 2011, Pride cut back substantially to attempt to prepare for the 25th anniversary. To date, Pride has not received money
To date, Pride has not received money from any level of government
The biggest chal-
by an exceptional volunteer director are es-
lenge of rapid
sential for a safe and fun experience.
growth for Pride is
“Big-city” Pride is possible in Winni-
human resources.
peg. One day we may graduate to having
Pride requires
an executive director and every year Pride’s
professionals –
direction will progress with new ideas and
graphic designers,
opportunities. For now, volunteers are the
communication
primary component in the production of
experts, financial
Pride and they are truly great people.
from any level of government, although it is
gurus, and marketing specialists to operate
It’s a great year! The 25th year of our
a prime goal of future funding and a strong
effectively. Lawyers, accountants and busi-
Winnipeg history, most importantly, hon-
indication of societal support. Locally, work-
ness people are keys to accommodating ex-
ouring the contributors of our past achieve-
ing relationships and contributions from
pansion and ensure the wellness and future
ments while continuing progress in human
city departments and council are essen-
of Pride. Many people bring their talents
rights for all. Get involved and share in the
tial to plan the mass movement of parade
as committed volunteers. And, we need
incredible excitement and ownership of
participants through downtown Winnipeg,
volunteers on other levels. Pride Guide dis-
bringing the largest gathering of queer and
crossing major routes safely into The Forks.
tribution, hospitality, tourism coordinators
diverse people between Vancouver and To-
To benefit from all levels of government
are needed to ensure the important details
ronto to our city – The Pride of the Prairies.
resources, Pride needs grant writing exper-
come together during Pride week. On Pride
tise. But money for Pride is not the greatest
Day, the volunteer core of parade marshals,
challenge.
grounds crews and beer tent servers, all led
– Barb Burkowski is the chair of the Pride Committee.
Ryan Rawluk Certified General Accountant PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION
738 Osborne Street Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 2C2 (204)414-9026 ryan@rawlukcga.ca
12
outwords, october 2011 // www.outwords.ca
Small Business Consulting Financial Statement Preparation Tax Return Preparation www.rawlukga.ca
technology
Apple does away with glass ceiling
Corey Shefman
“It was largely thanks to Cook … that Apple has been so successful in the last decade.”
News flash: Apple
his technical achievements. Although
to ditch iPods
he’s never acknowledged his sexual-
and iPhones in
ity publicly, Cook was named to the
favour of iPrinters.
top of Out Magazine’s 2011 list of the
OK, Apple isn’t
most influential gays and lesbians in
really dropping
America. Assuming that Out is correct
their insanely
about his sexuality, Cook is one of only
popular iPod and
three GLBT senior executives in the
iPhone lines in
tech world (the only man of the three)
favour of printers,
and by far the most powerful.
despite what the satirical newspaper
What this means for the company
The Onion would have had us believe
is probably less important than what
shortly after Apple founder, chairman
it means for the community. The fact
and CEO Steve Jobs (he of the black
that Jobs is likely to remain with Apple
turtleneck) announced his resignation
as chair of the board means that Cook
on August 24th due to health issues.
is unlikely to make any major changes
Cook was named to the top of Out Magazine’s 2011 list of the most influential gays and lesbians in America. In his place, Apple announced that
to the products or vision of the com-
Tim Cook, previously chief operating
pany. On the other hand, popular
officer, would take over as CEO. Unlike
news blog Gawker reports that the
Jobs, Cook doesn’t have much public
senior management at Apple would
stature – there is no “Cult of Tim” in
publicly support Cook’s coming out
the same way that Mac fanboys (and
and taking on an active role as a gay
fangirls) worship Steve. It was largely
business and tech role model.
thanks to Cook, however, that Apple
While the future of Apple may be
has been so successful in the last dec-
unclear, the company has seemingly
ade. Largely responsible for operations
done away with one of the few glass
and supply, rather than innovation and
ceilings left for the queer community.
design, Cook has streamlined Apple’s production and brought order to the company. What stands out most for many in
– Corey Shefman is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
Who is Tim Cook? Born: Alabama, 1960. His father was a shipyard worker, his mother was a homemaker. INSIDE SCOOP: Cook is a workaholic. According to reports, he insists on being the first person into the office and the last person out. Strengths: Cook is a steady hand and seems to be 10 steps ahead of the competition. In 2005, Cook prepaid suppliers $1.25 billion to corner the market on a particular kind of flash memory used in the iPod. Weaknesses: Cook doesn’t have the public profile or vision that his predecessor, Steve Jobs, does. He isn’t likely to inspire anyone and doesn’t appear to contribute to the product design process (a big change, given that former CEO Steve Jobs is personally mentioned in 313 Apple patents).
the GLBT community, however, is not
www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
13
14 15
outwords, october 2011 // www.outwords.ca
By Peter Carlyle-Gordge
Ask any outreach worker in the fight against HIV transmission and you’ll find one of the hardest at risk groups to reach is MSM, or men who have sex with men. Men in this group don’t necessarily identify as gay. Some may be married to women and have families. Some may simply avoid defining their sexual orientation and it is often hard to pinpoint where they gather or connect.
Now, if reaching the MSM group is chal-
communion is deeply split on same-sex
to find gay people and bring them before
lenging here, consider its near impossibil-
rights, thanks largely to the Archbishop of
the courts. He also called on landlords and
ity in such homophobic places as Africa, a
Canterbury kowtowing in fear to the out-
tenants to inform on those they believe
place still plagued by superstition, repres-
spoken black African bishops who despise
to be gay. “All efforts are being made to
sion and an outright burning hostility to
homosexuality and claim God does, too.
get rid of these people in the society,” this
You don’t need to go far to stack up
enlightened idiot is reported to have said.
any sexual practices beyond the vanilla heterosexual variety. In many Islamic
evidence of this official homophobia. The
In Ghana, homosexuality is still considered
countries such as Iran and Iraq, being at-
president of Iran famously came to the
a moral aberration, or even a myth.
tracted to the same sex may bring instant
U.S. and told a university audience that
The Constitution guarantees the
death by a mob, or less instant death after
same-sex dalliances did not exist in Iran.
protection of human rights regardless of
a shameful “trial” in an Islamic court,
The evidence in the form of beatings and
“race, place of origin, political opinion,
which may sentence you to be hanged,
hangings of gay men tends to undermine
colour, religion, creed or gender,” but does
often in public.
his insane statement.
not mention sexual orientation. Anyway,
Attitudes to same-sex attraction in
In July, a news item from Ghana
you can imagine how difficult it is to be
Africa aren’t much better, with a nasty,
highlighted the same problem when a
gay or lesbian, or a man who has sex with
often violent reaction to same-sex cou-
government minister ordered the arrest of
other men, in these regions of ignorance
plings – an official kind of homophobia
any gays or lesbians found in that country’s
and hostility. Bear in mind, too, that Africa
that is encouraged by the Neanderthal and
western region. Paul Evans Aidoo, the min-
has shocking statistics on HIV transmission
ignorant Catholic and Anglican churches.
ister for the region, directed the Bureau of
and death from AIDS. One UN report sug-
Indeed, the current worldwide Anglican
National Investigations and other agencies
gests that 25 per cent of men who have
www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
15
sex with men are infected with HIV, yet
Nelson, who is of African descent,
they are invisible in Africa and terrified of
grew up in Georgia and his work over the
seeking testing or medical help.
next 18 months will be in Ghana’s two
Now Canada hopes to come to the
biomedical advances are expanding our prevention tool kit.” He plans to work closely with leaders
largest cities: Accra and Kumasi. He told
in Ghana to implement the medical and
rescue in the form of an HIV prevention
OutWords working in Ghana is “tricky”
public health policies necessary. Officially
and treatment strategy designed to reach
given attitudes to homosexual sex, but
his project is called the Kumasi & Accra
those unreachable African men who have
insists he has already found strong support
Project to Prevent AIDS (KAPPA). It’s a so-
sex with men. Canada has played a ma-
at some government levels because they
cial network-based intervention to prevent
jor role in worldwide efforts to stem the
are anxious to stop the spread of AIDS.
HIV among men who have sex with men.
tide of HIV infections. LaRon E. Nelson, an assistant professor of nursing at The Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing at the University of Toronto has just won a $100,000 grant to design a model for reaching those invisible men who are too afraid to seek testing or treatment in normal health clinics. Fear of government and social attitudes doesn’t help stop the spread of HIV, so Nelson plans to try to reach MSM groups through their own social networks. He also plans to build trust, which is key to overcoming both fear and ignorance.
One of the latest advances involves HIVnegative people who are at risk of infection taking antiHIV drugs even when not infected
“Some
Phase one will study its effectiveness for
powerful
preventing HIV and the economic feasibil-
people do
ity of it being locally sustained once the
understand
study has concluded.
the challenge
One of the latest advances – pre-ex-
we face and
posure prophylaxis (PrEP) – involves HIV-
they are be-
negative people who are at risk of infection
ing quietly
taking anti-HIV drugs even when not
supportive,”
infected. Recent studies by the University
he says.
of Washington have shown the partners of
“Officially
people who have HIV can protect them-
homosexual-
selves from infection by taking a once-daily
ity doesn’t
pill. They undertook studies in Botswana,
exist but they
Kenya and Uganda.
Nelson’s award is a breakthrough in in-
know it does and they know they have a
novative HIV work and he is just one of 19
problem there. The reason I am interested
ited success due to cultural barriers, but
award recipients across Canada in a federal
in reaching this MSM group through their
this new approach to prevention may be
program known as the Canada Rising Star
own social networks is because a group of
a breakthrough. Studies show that those
health initiatives.
them approached me when I was attend-
taking a single daily tablet of the Aids drug
ing another conference there on another
tenofovir had 62 per cent fewer infec-
subject.”
tions and those who took a pill combining
The Canada Rising Star program’s goal is to “support the development of excep-
Promoting condom use has had lim-
tional emerging Canadian scientists who
He says the men who approached him
have the potential to be world leaders in
wanted advice and testing, but didn’t trust
Tenofovir and Emtricitabine had 73 per cent fewer infections than those who took
global health.” Each of the 19 innovators
local clinics because of shame and possible
a placebo pill.
selected from across the country receives a
social opprobrium. “We met with men in
grant of $100,000 and they may eventu-
Ghana who described multi-level chal-
which is important if they are to be given
ally get access to $1 million in funding if
lenges to preventing sexually transmitted
to healthy individuals. Both are made by
their innovative ideas pan out. Canada
infections among men most-at-risk,” says
Gilead, which has licensed their manufac-
is the first country in the world to adopt
Nelson. “For the longest time, the condom
ture to generic companies in the devel-
this kind of grand challenges approach to
was the only available biomedical device
oping world, allowing them to produce
foreign aid.
with prevention efficacy; however, new
cheap copies. This development excites
The drugs have few side-effects,
Nelson, who says there are still many cul-
16 17
outwords, october 2011 // www.outwords.ca
researchers tapped into MSM social net-
help us to reach the tipping point in the
works, with one group leading them to
HIV epidemic.”
others,” he says. “Gay men always find
ington studies followed hard on the heels
find, but it was more of a challenge to tap
of another important finding – that people
into MSM groups and find out where they
with HIV who are taking combinations of
party and socialize. They dress just like
antiretroviral drugs not only stay healthy
other men so cannot be easily identified.”
themselves but are unlikely to infect their
He plans to use the same methods to
partners. The two pieces of research have
locate the MSM cohort and stresses that
LaRon E. Nelson, an assistant professor of nursing at The Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing at the University of Toronto has just won a $100,000 grant to design a model for reaching those invisible men who are too afraid to seek testing or treatment in normal health clinics.
The news of the University of Wash-
places to socialize and are not that hard to
given a huge
then we will consider whether the model
The aim is to win the confidence of MSM men, then have them lead researchers to other MSM links
we devise could be adopted and sup-
tive new HIV prevention tools are urgently
ported by other countries,” says Nelson.
needed, and these studies could have
“Besides finding MSM men we also have
enormous impact in preventing hetero-
building up trust will be a key to success, since this treatment model would operate under the normal clinical radar, even though silently supported by government leaders. The aim is to win the confidence of MSM men, then have them lead researchers to other MSM links in the chain. “The first phase is gathering data and
boost to the cause of rolling out more AIDS drugs and treating people at the earliest stage of their illness. “Effec-
to persuade doctors and nurses and other
sexual transmission,” according to Dr Mar-
tural barriers to overcome. He says taking
health professionals that they can deliver
garet Chan, director general of the World
a preventative pill when you are not sick
HIV testing and other services, including
Health Organization. “WHO will be work-
may be easily understood in the West but
counselling, in non-traditional, non-clinic
ing with countries to use the new findings
perceptions are often different in Africa, so
settings.” Phase One of his project will take
to protect more men and women from HIV
there is much education to do.
18 months and Nelson will be visiting Gha-
infection.”
“You have to consider all these Western solutions in the cultural context of
na later this year to get his project rolling. Condom use and circumcision have
Nelson’s $100,000 award is part of a new federal innovation program known as
Africa and we’ll consider that when gather-
certainly helped reduce HIV transmis-
Grand Challenges Canada. It is funded by
ing data and figuring out what changes
sion risks but the latest exciting tool is the
the Government of Canada’s Development
are needed,” he says. “There is a lack of
fight against spreading HIV is undoubtedly
Innovation Fund and is part of a consor-
research in the area of cultural context and
pre-exposure prophylaxis. “This is a major
tium with the International Development
it’s important for us to understand it when
scientific breakthrough which re-confirms
Research Centre (IDRC) and the Canadian
introducing creative ways of reducing the
the essential role that antiretroviral medi-
Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).
spread of HIV.”
cine has to play in the AIDS response,” says
He says some California researchers
Michel Sidibé, executive director of the
studying transmission of sexual diseases in
Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/
Africa have told him they were surprised
Aids (UNAids). “These recent studies could
at how large a group MSM is. “These
The HIV fight goes on, but the news is slowly getting better. – Peter Carlyle-Gordge is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
17
Elvira
It’s all thanks to the drag queens
By Jason Clevett
Big hair, big camp, big boobs. It should
drag queen, with white lips and white
called Mamma’s Boys that toured all over
be no surprise that Cassandra Peterson,
eye shadow, and we performed under a
the United States during the big ‘70s
a.k.a. Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, is much
black light so we looked like the Su-
disco era. Those guys were like my broth-
loved by the gay community. From her
premes. Isn't that scary? People would
ers, we lived together, ate together, slept
early days performing in gay bars to her
always say, 'Oh my God you are the most
together sometimes. It was pre-AIDS,
wit and charm on Elvira's Movie Macabre
incredible drag queen I have ever seen.'
thank God, and really wild, but man they
the gay influence is obvious.
The gay influence on me is all over, it's
taught me everything I know, I am not
me. I grew up and became a gay man –
kidding, about everything. So I have a
was hired at an army base. Right off the
it's really bizarre. From the time I was 14,
very different outlook on life.”
base, it was so bizarre, there was a gay
gay men were telling me how to dress,
bar. I started dancing there, I was actu-
walk, dance, how to do my makeup and
prior to the Calgary Comic and Enter-
ally like a drag queen,” Peterson says.
hair. I worshipped them and looked up
tainment Expo, where fans lined up to
“There were two guys and me, and we
to them. First I was dancing with them,
meet her for photos and autographs. She
did the Supremes. It was kind of embar-
then for four and a half years I toured
commented on how far the gay commu-
rassing because I was a girl dressed as a
with a group of myself and seven guys
nity has come since her first exposure to
“I started as a go-go dancer and
Peterson spoke to Outwords recently
“Both women and men like a strong female figure who’s also sexy” it. “I was from a small town in Colorado.
Her 1988 film Elvira: Mistress of the
in their thirties and they all turned out
You practically had to hide the bar there,
Dark, about a misunderstood misfit in
good. They were always messed up,
there was a gay bar that was hidden in
a highly religious town resonated with
bizarre outcast misfit kind of loser kids
this weird area. If you didn't have an
many gay and lesbian people, many of
that turned out to be really creative,
inside address you were never going to
whom had similar experiences or fears.
cool, together kind of people as adults. I
find this place. It was called the Purple
“For the gay community there was some-
am always impressed. They tell me they
Cow. There was another one in Colorado
thing about Elvira: Mistress of the Dark
work for Sony doing graphic arts or are a
Springs called Exit 21. These places were
that if they were gay made them feel
comic book artist now. I love seeing them
hidden and you had to knock on the
some comradaries [sic] with Elvira. ‘She is
through these decades.”
door, and they would peek out the door
this horrible misfit person and it actually
Peterson takes the label of “gay icon”
and let you in. It was so hidden, so clos-
turned out good. She made it to Vegas,
seriously, and is proud to be loved, and
eted, so scary. Everybody was sneaking
maybe I can, too.' Back in that day when
to love, the LGBT community. “I know I
around. Can you imagine, that was the
you were gay and did feel like everyone
have had a big influence on drag queens,
‘60s. Everybody was in the closet. In high
was on the religious right and you felt
because now they come to me for advice!
school all my best friends were in drama
like you didn't fit in, I think that movie
I was getting advice from them, now I
and kind of touchy, and later I went back
connected with a lot of young men and
am giving it. There are a lot of Elvira drag
and they were all gay but I didn't even
women who felt that they weren't ac-
queens out there, some fantastic some
know. They were misfits and that is who I
cepted and wanted to be run out of town
not so fantastic, but I love them all. I
gravitated to. I grew up and went for my
on a rail. They saw they could actually
have definitely seen an influence on that
high school reunion and every one of my
make it work out and it wasn't the end
area. The gay community seems to really
friends were gay guys. But I didn't get it
of their life. It is fantastic for me to meet
love Elvira and support me. The commu-
then.”
people who say “I saw your movie when
nity loves Madonna and Cher and Lady
I was 10 or 12 years old and it made such
Gaga and Elvira. I think it is about being
a huge impact on me.” Generally that
a sexy but strong woman, not sexy but
was the moment they knew they were
weak and at the whim of men telling you
straight or gay, it is really weird. I don't
what to do. Both women and men like a
know if I turned them gay or straight.
strong female figure who’s also sexy. If
They watched the movie and related to
you have ever been to a Cher concert I
Elvira in some way. I meet people that I
don't think there are any straight men in
met as kids, and now meet them again
the audience, that's for damn sure. Gay men are attracted to things that go right down the middle, not too butch, not too feminine, right in the middle and that would be me.” You can follow Elvira, Mistress of the Dark at www.modlife.com/elvira. – Jason Clevett is a Calgary-based freelance writer.
The wrong By Shannon Vanraes
Andrea Ritchie isn’t shy
resources are available to them, explained
about her thoughts on
Ritchie, but she noted this has its limitations.
the American justice system, or lack-there-of
“Copwatch can’t be there in the booking room or the patrol car when the officer is
when it comes to the
propositioning someone, or sexually harass-
LGBT community. The
ing them ... it doesn’t work for certain con-
New York-based police
texts where a lot of violence occurs against
misconduct lawyer, and co-
women and LGBT people,” she points out.
founder of INCITE! Women
To address that and other issues, Ritchie
of Colour Against Violence,
led a workshop on resisting the racialized po-
has recently co-authored
licing of gender and sex, focusing on ways to
a book on the subject and
connect communities and affect change. She
was in Winnipeg this summer
drew in part on her recently published book
to speak at the International Copwatch Conference about the role of law enforcement and its impact on LGBT communities. “For me, the police are one of the central focus points for addressing and stemming systems of violence and
Queer (In)Justice, which she co-authored with Joey Mogul and Kay Whitlock. Queer (In)Justice shares stories like those of Monica James, a black transgender woman who was accused of being deceptive and untrustworthy while on trial for attempted murder after the prosecution claimed she was
systems of domination, because they are
lying about her sex. She had run afoul of Lou-
literally the front-line soldiers in enforcing
isiana’s “crimes against nature” laws, which
these things,” says the activist. “I think as a
impose harsher penalties for the solicitation
system, the police are about maintaining the
of oral or anal sex than they do for general
existing social order, an order that includes
prostitution. The penalties include having
violence against certain people and power
a sex offender designation emblazoned on
for certain people at the expense of others,
one’s driver’s licence.
controlling some populations, to allow other populations to dominate.” Copwatch is premised on a group of
Ritchie emphasizes that selective enforcement of existing laws and often obscure laws – for example, loitering inside a building –
volunteers going out to locations and neigh-
gives police the tools they need to target the
bourhoods where police activity is present,
LGBT community, particularly LGBT people
filming people’s interactions with police, and
of colour and economically disadvantaged
then advising them of their rights and what
LGBT people. The result is the criminaliza-
side of the law tion of LGBT people, despite the perceived
invasive searches of transgender people by
move towards equality through the repealing
New York City Police officers to establish their
of American sodomy laws and the sporadic
sex. Although the case has generated positive
legalization of same-sex marriage.
dialogue, and is expected to establish new
The police misconduct attorney also
search guidelines, Ritchie and her colleagues
points out that the examination of our colo-
argue it’s grassroots efforts that are needed
nial history is needed to understand current
to effectively change the way laws are en-
issues surrounding race, class, and queer
forced and justice is rendered.
criminal archetypes in the Americas. Noting
“Efforts have been made by some police
that the first recorded punishment of sodomy
departments, and I don’t want to discount
in the Americas took place in present day
those efforts, but it doesn’t change the fun-
Panama in 1513, Ritchie says the colonial
damental function of the police,” says Ritchie,
legacy still influences our society’s ideas of
emphasizing that changes needs to come
gender and sex, and the perceived role race
from outside the police system to end dis-
plays in defining sexuality, such as the stere-
crimination against the queer community.
otype of the overly sexually aggressive black
Ritchie believes that if real equality is go-
woman, which can portray women of colour
ing to be sought, people in the LGBT commu-
as unfairly dangerous and eventually garner
nity need to reach out across the economic
them increased sentences.
and racial divides that separate them. In
Ritchie says that when most people think
Queer (In)Justice, Ritchie and her co-authors
of police brutality, the image that still jumps
argue that advances trumped as major steps
to mind is the Rodney King beating, which
towards equality, such as same-sex marriage,
occurred in Los Angeles in 1991. The attorney
have not by and large benefited the economi-
notes that some people don’t automatically
cally depressed or homeless LGBT individuals,
view sexual abuse, harassment or even rape
or queers of colour who still face criminaliza-
as a form of police brutality, because the pub-
tion and disproportionate interaction with
lic image of police brutality is so tied to public
the legal system. “I’d really like to see people
violence, something that she says needs to
reach across the divides, I think it’s needed,”
change so that all abuses of power can be
concludes Ritchie.
addressed. In one of many efforts to fight discrimination, Ritchie is currently counsel, along with co-author Joey Mogul, in a civil rights action
– Shannon Vanraes is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
Tracing the roots of queers vs cops Although this book probably isn’t one you would pack for an uplifting day at the beach, Queer (In)Justice from Beacon Press is a poignant and searingly honest analysis of queer experiences with the American justice system. Tracing miscarriages of justice from first contact with police, to the courts and all too often to death row, co-authors Joey Mogul, Andrea Ritchie and Kay Whitlock draw on their formidable experiences in law and activism to outline the role “justice” plays in maintaining social norms and the effect that has on the LGBT community. Beginning with the impact of early colonization on perceptions of homosexuality and crime, Queer (In) Justice also explores criminal archetypes such as the “gleeful gay killers” and “hard-core lesbians” that still find a place in American courts. By making connects between race, class, sex and gender, this is a book that challenges the traditional ideas of equality and progress. O
challenging unconstitutional and overly
www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
21
by Katrina Caudle
Opera serves up eroticism, romance and murder Think big, soul-wrenching voices – enough power to fill a concert hall. Imagine elaborate costumes, thrilling story lines, and a night of theatre and music that encompasses everything you could ask for from a stage show. When Winnipeggers are deciding on their Friday night plans, they don’t often think of the opera as the first choice – but forget the old stereotypes of dull evenings and obscure
22 23
outwords, october 2011 // www.outwords.ca
plot lines. If you’ve never been, you could be missing out on something magical. “Opera is all the arts wrapped into one,” says Darlene Ronald, marketing director of the Manitoba Opera. “There’s a lot of misconceptions about opera. It’s an art form that most people think they won’t like, but I always say, see one first. Nine times out of 10, people are blown away once they’re in the hall.” Ronald wasn’t a regular opera fan before she joined the team at the opera house, but has since become a devotee of the gorgeous art form, eagerly sharing what she loves about the performances. “It’s very powerful. There’s no microphones or audio enhancements. These singers are trained to project for an entire hall,” she says. For its debut performance of the season, the Manitoba Opera takes us to the treacherous world of Salome, an opera by Richard Strauss based on a play by Oscar Wilde. Shocking to audiences and performers alike, the opera was originally banned in London and Vienna. The eroticism, murder and biblical themes that drew Wilde to the story were the very things that made it infamous. The story centres on the beautiful Salome, stepdaughter of King Herod, who has rejected her stepfather’s lustful advances and fallen for the imprisoned Jokannan, also known as John the Baptist. However, she in turn is rejected by him because he wants nothing to do with her. When Herod requests that she dance the famous dance
of the seven veils, she agrees only with Tonio, who is eager to help because he the promise that she may have her heart’s loves Marie, and has been told that she can desire from him. Once unveiled, Salome only marry a man of the regiment. demands the head of John the Baptist on a Much to his chagrin, Marie’s aunt enplatter and Herod, bound by his vow must gages her to a duke. At its climax, the story appease her. concludes with a declaration of love, the Described as one of the regiment invading the hall, great accomplishments of and the truth of Marie’s the 20th century, the cast origins being revealed. The is led by Mlada Khudoley, piece speaks to the nature a supremely talented artist of love and family. from Russia, as Salome and This is an opera of great Gregory Dahl from Winnipeg melodies and challenging as the doomed Jokannan. music. It is also known for Manitoba Opera’s own Larry the aria “Ah! mes amis, quel Desrochers will be directing jour de fête!”, which conthe performance. tains nine high Cs. The perThe season continues in formance will also feature a February with a performance guest speaking role by the of the baroque opera “Dido Canadian queen of comedy, and Aeneas”, co-presented Mary Walsh. The lead will Daughter of the Regiment be performed by Nikki with the Manitoba ChamThe performance will also ber Orchestra at WestminEinfeld, a former Winnipegfeature a guest speaking role ister Church. This is the tale ger who has performed by the Canadian queen of of a tragic love between across North America and comedy, Mary Walsh. the Queen of Carthage, is praised for her comedic Dido, and the Trojan Prince Aeneas. After talent. “I like to think of it as Lucille Ball a shipwreck that leaves him and his crew with highlights,” says Ronald. “Anyone who stranded, Aeneas meets the queen and has seen Nikki before will be excited to see they fall deeply in love. But the queen her again. She is delightful.” has many enemies, including a sorceress The season is sure to be an amazing who commands one of her coven to take experience for its patrons, says Ronald. the guise of the god Mercury to convince “Our box office is a personal experience. Aeneas he must leave her side and fulfill his You can speak to us directly for information. duty to found the new kingdom of Troy. We also have a lending library of music and The performance has no elaborate sets or books that the public can borrow and listen costumes. Instead, it focuses on the great to before the performances. The performmusic and storytelling to draw the audience ances that are in different languages have into the experience. Hailed as one of Engthe English translations projected so that land’s finest works of opera, the story also the audience can follow while enjoying the presents the heartbreaking aria ‘When I am music.” laid in the earth”, performed by a heartbroIn April, the opera will offer a free open ken Dido. house so that the public can tour its backThe last piece of the season is the wellstage facilities and see the costumes and loved comedy “Daughter of the Regiment”, sets up close. “The opera is about people about the orphan Marie who is taken in living, laughing, dying,” says Ronald. “It by a regiment and grows up as a tomboy projects feeling and emotions through the with them. When the regiment encounters music to bring to places where the ordinary the girl’s family, her aunt is shocked by the world can’t.” girl’s rough manners and decides to make a proper lady of her. She enlists a local man Katrina Caudle is a Winnieg-based freelance writer.
beautiful powerful
enticing
Layer Cake Primitivo
24.99
$
only at:
Kenaston wine Market 1855A GrAnt Ave. WinniPeG 204-488-9463
www.kenastonwine.com
Prices listed do not include taxes. e. & O.e.
Cool Sounds of Jazz Warm Up the night
filling in after Quintron and Miss Pussycat had to cancel their tour at the last minute. Appearing at the Pyramid Cabaret on October 10, Dam (pronounced: ‘Dame’) is known as a singer, DJ and producer and will be playing his Los Angeles “modernfunk” compositions – combining his own brand of boogie with vintage synth and drum machines. You can preview of his music at http://www.myspace.com/ For something a little more soulful, the con-
damfunk.
cert season wraps up with a performance by Canadian singer-songwriter Jill Barber at the Winnipeg Art Gallery on November 15. The recipient of numerous awards, includ-
by Katrina Caudle
ing Best Canadian Solo Artist (female) in 2007, Barber is touring after the release of
The Winnipeg Jazz Festival is a highlight of the summer for many music lovers. This year’s festival season opened in July with fantastic free concerts at Market Square and 25 sold-out performances. This fall, Jazz Winnipeg will riff off a hot summer lineup and also offer an outstanding series of concert performance.
her new album Michievous Moon (which debuted at No. 31 on the Canadian Albums Chart). Barber refers to this new phase of her career as “more intimate” than her 2008 hit Chances, which earned the young songstress two Juno awards and global attention. Jazz Winnipeg will also be presenting its sixth season of the Nu Sounds series, which features local jazz musicians performing new or different works. The series will run from December 2011 to April 2012 at The Park Theatre and will focus on innovative Winnipeg will also wel-
The fall season will open with the return of Dam-Funk and his band, Master Blazter. Dam-Funk was a favourite at the summer jazz festival,
24 25
outwords, october 2011 // www.outwords.ca
works and inventive presentations. Previ-
come back guitarist Jesse
ous performances have included a genre-
Cook from Toronto. He will
blending concert pairing with the Curtis
perform at Pantages Playhouse
Nowosad Trio and local hip hop group
Theatre as part of his cross-
Magnum K.I, local pianist and composer
country tour. Born in Paris to
Kevin Curtis, and the mysterious Electric
Canadian parents, Cook mixes
Nosehair Orchestra.
funky jazz, world music and
To purchase tickets, visit the Jazz Win-
vibrant Latin rhythms in his
nipeg website at http://jazzwinnipeg.com,
music – bringing a lively, crea-
call 989-4656, or stop by in person at the
tive energy to his performanc-
Jazz Winnipeg office (007-100 Arthur St.)
es. Cook was nominated for a
Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2011 Juno Award for his most recent release called The Rumba Foundation. He will be performing October 20.
– Katrina Caudle is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
%%
Where Winnipeg Men Cruise Free Full-Access With This Code: OUTW
74% of outwords readers are between the ages of 25 and 55
www.squirt.org
Winnipeg Cruising Listings • Live Webcam IM & Group Cam Chat • Winnipeg Profiles XXX Pics & Member Videos • Try Squirt Mobile!
outwords
www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
25
26 27
outwords, october 2011 // www.outwords.ca Photos courtesy of Mary Gauthier
Mary Gauthier explores the trouble in our hearts By Kenton Smith
It’s a curious quirk that the fan base of the first
adopted by Italian-Catholic parents – her adoptive
openly gay artist to play the Grand Ole Opry
father was an alcoholic, and both were suicidal.
consists of middle-aged and elderly men. ‘That’s
By the time she was a teenager, Gauthier’s own
mah people,” says thickly accented Louisiana na-
demons were running wild: she went to her first
tive Mary Gauthier. She may have won a Gay and
rehab for booze and drugs when she was 15, the
Lesbian American Music Award for Best Country
same year she stole her parents’ car. She famously
Artist – after her 1999 album Drag Queens in
spent her 18th birthday in jail, after stealing some-
Limousines – but “I don’t really have a gay fanbase,”
one else’s pills.
she says. Nor does she really write songs about sexual identity. Funny, then, that it was after Drag Queens –
Given the odds, Gauthier should really be dead or wrecked – like
and it’s signature tune I Drink – that the 49 year-old
some of her likewise trou-
lesbian singer-songwriter became a fixture of the
bled friends over the years.
folkfest circuit, both in North America and Europe.
And she flatly refuses to
Gauthier blew through Winnipeg in August with
romanticize that state of
a date at the West End Cultural Centre, where she
being, as some in music,
Given the odds, Gauthier should really be dead or wrecked
played songs from her sixth and latest original al-
literature and the arts have done. Take the for-
bum, 2010’s The Foundling.
merly down-and-out Tom Waits, for instance, who
“It’s a good room to play,” Gauthier says
suggests in the 2008 documentary One Fast Move
of the WECC. “I think of myself as an old-time
or I’m Gone: Kerouac’s Big Sur that perhaps Beat au-
troubadour, telling stories ‘round the fire.” And
thor Jack Kerouac’s addictions unlocked the insight
the WECC, she agrees, “is like a campfire.” Which
seen in such novels as On the Road and Big Sur.
makes it the perfect venue for her recent material.
“My addiction had no time for anything else,”
“I need to play where people want to listen,” she
Gauthier insists, in stark contrast. In fact, her
says. Sure, she loves rocking out, but the nature of
career began with sobriety. It was five years after
these current songs “isn’t conducive to that.”
she stopped drinking that she first wrote a song.
What listeners will hear wherever she’s playing
Ironically, Gauthier penned I Drink only after go-
is a more intimate, personal exploration of Gauth-
ing stone cold sober. Not that that made any of
ier’s notoriously troubled past. Abandoned by her
those years worth it. “It was a self-defeating waste
mother in New Orleans after her birth, she was
of time,” she says, looking back. “I’m so glad I’m past it.”
www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
27
“I’m not a good judge of that,”
still getting past the jet lag from after per-
Gauthier demurs. “Songs have to
forming in Norway; since returning, she’s
last a long time to be called mas-
already played the Stan Rogers Folk Festival,
terpieces. What I can say is, I do
among others. Her gig at the WECC is part
my very best with every album.”
of a stretch that will continue “throughout
One has to think Gauthier dug deeper than ever this time, however. The track March 11,
through the fire and out the other side didn’t somehow brand Gauthier, the singer-
(and only) conversation with her
that she’s on tour, exactly: “I just keep going
mother – over the telephone. Her
where there’s a road, and offers.” It’s been
mother, still filled with shame,
“full-on” since April; no surprise her last
didn’t want to meet her. It’s like
blog entry is dated Apr. 13. “The road has
the Boston Globe’s James Reed
been my home for the last few years,” she
described the record, as “by far
admits, despite having a house in Nashville
[Gauthier’s] most revealing….
where she (tries to) garden. Not that she’s
you realize Gauthier wasn’t just
complaining: “I feel blessed to be working
in search of her mother; she was
this much in this economy.” In fact, Gauthier feels “a sense of wonder” she’s here at all. “It’s been a magic
cian certainly took time for her to
carpet ride, my musical career. I truly feel
find. After managing to get into
reborn. I was so broken.” And that’s some-
Louisiana State University as a phi-
thing she hopes listeners and audiences take
losophy major, she later dropped
away from her songs. “My isn’t a hopeless
out in her senior year. She went
one by any means,” she says. Perhaps it’s
on to attend culinary school,
that message that so touches her older, male
eventually co-opening a Cajun
devotees.
restaurant in Boston named Dixie Kitchen. It was after being arrested for drunk
Certainly living openly as a lesbian has never presented any problem for her in the
songwriter. She’s proven able to plumb
driving – the night of the restaurant’s open-
world of country music, through whose
depths and dimensions of the soul that for
ing – that Gauthier finally put down the bot-
sphere her musical orbit has long passed.
whatever reason, she says, her “people”
tle. But then she had another life-changing
“There’s a lot of gay people in Nashville,”
identify with. “My fans relate to my songs
epiphany: she realized running a restaurant
Gauthier says. Besides, she continues, “if you
on an almost spiritual level,” she says.
wasn’t for her.
got the songs, they don’t care” in country
Or maybe Gauthier simply always had
“I realize that I always knew, on some
the ability to just tell it like it is, in the way
level, that music was the right fit for me,”
mirror what you think of yourself, after all.”
the artists she most admires – Bob Dylan,
she says. “I’d been out of touch with my
Yet while she may be part of both
Leonard Cohen, and Patti Smith – operate
true calling.” At age 35, late start notwith-
larger communities – both musical and
as truth tellers. “That’s what I am,” she says.
standing, Gauthier finally released her debut
gay – Gauthier admits she’s still a loner. “As
“It’s what I do.”
album in 1997 – named for the very restau-
writers, we’re always observers anyway,” she
rant she’d sold her share in. “Perhaps more
says. Above all, Gauthier remains her own
acclaim: 2005’s Mercy Now got her on best
than anything, I just didn’t think I could do
person – which is to say, an artist.
of lists of the New York Times, the LA Times
it,” she explains. “I needed to find the confi-
and Billboard Magazine. And Americana/
dence, and the discipline.”
What she does has come with a lot of
roots music magazine No Depression hails The Foundling as Gauthier’s first masterpiece.
28
“I haven’t had any downtime, shoot, in about a year,” Gauthier says. It’s not even
Gauthier’s identity as a musi-
Yet it’s hard to imagine that going
Mountain Folk Fest.
1962, for instance, relates her first
looking for her own identity.”
“It’s been a magic carpet ride, my musical career. I truly feel reborn. I was so broken.”
Alberta,” before taking her to the Rocky
outwords, october 2011 // www.outwords.ca
There’s been no looking back since. When Gauthier answers the phone, she’s
music circles. “I’m accepted. People tend to
– Kenton Smith is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
Brooklynn’s Bistro
Darryl Crumb serves up simple chic off menu
If there’s any way chef
real coup: a new restaurant that’s actually
kenton smith
Darryl Crumb would
making money. “It’s a tough business,”
prefer to cook, it’d
Crumb says with a sigh. “People don’t
be how he’s doing
realize that even few Michelin-starred
it at his present gig.
establishments are actually profitable,
“I love simple food
because the costs are so high to maintain
that looks good,”
that standard.”
“the relaxedbut-stylish feel and carefully priced menu means there’s something for just about everyone”
says Anola, Manitoba,
The secret to Brooklynn’s success,
native Crumb – who
perhaps, can be chalked up to Crumb a
despite French train-
former protégé of Michelin-starred chef
ing and a Ukrainian-
Alain Ducasse taking a decidedly alterna-
Russian background
tive approach. “My favoured term for what
is now cooking an
we do here is ‘bistro chic,’” Crumb says.
Italian menu as chef at
Simply put, it’s about putting a “modern”
Brooklynn’s Bistro in
twist on traditional, rustic fare, like classic
Winnipeg’s historic Exchange District. The shift in cuisine may have taken
osso bucco. “We get customers in here of Italian
some adjustment on Crumb’s part, but
background who’ve said we’ve made Ital-
for the now 30 year-old former Top Chef
ian food ‘sexy,’” Crumb says while beam-
Canada competitor, it’s just part of a
ing. They might have been referring to
spectrum that emphasizes one favoured
the spaghetti Bolognese, made that much
factor: comfort. “You can make any cuisine
more luxurious thanks to the accompa-
from any region fancy,” says Crumb, who
nying double-smoked bacon meatballs.
on one episode of Top Chef produced a
Crumb’s also brought some French tech-
refined, enthusiastically received version
niques to bear on some dishes.
of humble borscht. “It really depends on
And that dovetails nicely with the
how you use the ingredients. But simple is
snazzy digs on the corner of Lombard Ave-
always better.”
nue and Rorie Street, the one-time location
There’s no doubt Crumb’s TV expe-
of Liberty Grill, in the former Great West
rience has enhanced his personal and
Life building. “The business-casual ambi-
professional cache. “It’s nice,” he says with
ence is drawing in the young professional
a grin, “to be recognized on the street.”
crowd,” Crumb says. “They like coming to
Only a few months out of the gate, how-
a place like this dressed up more stylishly.”
ever, it would seem a stretch to attribute
But the big, open dining room space,
Brooklynn’s success to that celebrity factor
he continues, has also been conducive
alone. “We’ve been packed since April,”
to a more “family feel.” “You really get a
Crumb says with a tinge of near-disbelief.
talkative, warm feel, with so many people
“We’re fully booked tonight. You come
in one place enjoying themselves – and
here without a reservation on the week-
usually for two to three hours at a time,”
ends, you won’t get a table.”
Crumb says. “And I’ve never seen a restau-
And with both busy lunchtime rushes,
rant with so many large parties coming in
thanks to the downtown business district
so frequently, with so many people around
clientele, and crowds rolling in from the
one table. It gets pretty jovial in here on
adjacent theatre district, it amounts to a
the weekends. It’s definitely not an eat-
Darryl Crumb favours comfort and keeps things simple. and-go dining experience here: it’s about taking the time to enjoy food, wine and people.” Hence the restaurant has succeeded in drawing in a wide range of age groups. And the relaxed-but-stylish feel and carefully priced menu means there’s something for just about everyone. “I’m a Winnipegger, so I know how it is,” Crumb says with a laugh. “People in this town like a deal.” Which is why Brooklynn’s menu has been designed to emphasize value for money. “You can spend less or spend more but always get a high-quality product,” Crumb declares. One can find pizzas and pasta dishes for under $20 – or, by contrast, a parmesan-crusted rack of lamb for under $30. Either way, he concludes: “It’s always nice for people to be left with a memory of comfort.” – Kenton Smith is a Winnipeg-based freelance writer.
www.outwords.ca // outwords, october 2011
29
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. Dreamcatchers: Weekly therapeutic group for women and transgenders contemplating leaving the sex trade. Call 784-4065. Fort Garry Women’s Resource Centre: Feminist organization. Information/counselling. 1150-A Waverley St. 4771123, www.fgwrc.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. gAy&E: Participate in the Winnipeg arts, cultural, and entertainment scene. E-mail tallbrat@mts.net. 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.
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) 284-2799. E-mail: peerproject4youth@rainbowresourcecentre.org.
AFFIRMING
PolyWinnipeg is a pansexual social, support and educational group for polyamorous people in Winnipeg and area, www.polywinnipeg.com
Temple Shalom: Reform Judaism. Web: templeshalomwinnipeg.ca
Rainbow Educators of Manitoba (REM): Meets once a month. Cindy at 837-6036 or Manny at 478-1402. Rainbow Harmony Project: GLTT chorus. Phone 4776448, or Web: rainbowharmonyproject.ca/ Rainbow Link – free LGBT material for libraries and LGBT groups www.RainbowLink.ca Rainbow Pride Mosaic: GLBT resource centre at U of M, e-mail umrpm@umsu.ca . Web: umsu.ca/rainbowpride. Rainbow Refugee Committee - information for LGBT refugee claimants info@rainbowrefugee.ca Sexuality Education Resource Centre: Resources and information. 200-226 Osborne St. North, R3C 1V4. www. serc.mb.ca
Augustine United Church: 444 River Ave. at Osborne. 284-2250. Shaarey Zedek Synagogue: 561 Wellington Cres.
Unitarian Universalist Church of Winnipeg (Liberal Religion): 603 Wellington Cres. 474-1261. 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. 7724793, (fax) 783-0494, e-mail info@HouseofHesed.ca. Web: HouseofHesed.ca. (Note: This organization may receive financing from an ex-gay ministry.)
Keystone Rainbow Curling League (GLBT curling league). Web: keystonecurling.com
The Snowy Owl Monarchist Society: Non-profit fundraising for organizations that enrich the GLBT community. Box 26053, 676 Portage Ave., R3G 0M4.
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.
Transgender Support Group: Meets third Friday of the month, 7:30 p.m. at the RRC. All welcome. Web: winnipegtransgendergroup.com
Lambda: Business and Professional Association. P.O. Box 1575, Main Station, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 2Z4. 204-9440354. Web: lambdabiz.com
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.
LEGIT - Canadian immigration information for same sex couples www.LEGIT.ca
University of Winnipeg UWSA LGBT* Centre: 786-9025. E-mail lgbt@uwsa.ca, Web: theuwsa.ca/services-studentgroups
Sage House: Drop-in and outreach for street-involved women and transgenders living as women. 943-6379.
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
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
Live and Let Live: Group of Alcoholics Anonymous. Wed. at 8 p.m. at Holy Names House of Peace, 211 Edmonton St.
Ndinawe/Red River College: Child & Youth Care Certificate Program for folks formerly involved in the sex trade. Call 582-1978.
Masquerade: Crossdresser, transvestite, and transgender group. Web: masquerade.ca or call 452-1100.
SPIRITUALITY
Men’s Resource Centre: 301-321 McDermot Ave. Counselling for men. Call 956-9528 or 1-866-MRCEHCC (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 email winnipegmb@pflagcanada.ca.
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, 779-6446. E-mail winnipeg@dignitycanada.org, Web: dignitycanada.org. Rainbow Ministry (Outreach of the UnitedChurch): 302G Weston St., Call 954-2904. 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.
Kali Shiva AIDS Services: Non-medial support for people living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS. 646 Logan, Call 7838565 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.
Street Connections: Needle exchange, safer crack use kits, condoms, info and service connections. Call 9810742. 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 7756457. 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.
Salome
November 19, 22, 25 CENTENNIAL CONCERT HALL
wild about wilde See the opera based on Oscar Wilde’s controversial play!
violent desire Music by Richard Strauss The powerful, shocking story of a princess gone mad. One of the great achievements of music theatre of the 20th century. more than 100 years after its debut, this biblical story will leave you reeling! featuring the sensual dance of the seven Veils. sung in German with projected English translations.
contains scenes that some people may find disturbing. Parental guidance is advised.
outwordS FanS – Save 20% on ticketS VALId ONLy fOR TuEsdAy, NOVEmbER 22
20% off the adult casual ticket price in sections AA, A, b and first balcony. To receive this discount in person, by phone, or online, you must use the Coupon Code: Oscar
TICKETs: 944-8824 tickEts.manitObaOPEra.mb.ca mO bOx OffICE: LOwER LEVEL, CENTENNIAL CONCERT HALL