PQ Monthly December2016/January2017

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! PORTLAND

INSIDE: Portland Gay Mens Chorus Celebrating 37 Years! • Cascade Aids Project Wins Prestigious Award • HOROSCOPE: Stars Trends • Secret Life Of Summer Seasons: Playing Nice • Safety In Public In This Tense Post-Election Climate • Embody: Where My Hope Is Rooted & MORE!

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2 • DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017

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PQ TEAM Melanie Davis

THE WATER PROTECTORS

Owner/Publisher melanie@pqmonthly.com

chris Àlvarez

Art Director chris@pqmonthly.com

editorial Sossity Chiricuzio Editorial Assistant

OLIVIA OLIVIA

Media Correspondent and Calendar Editor

monty herron

Brilliant Media Correspondent

Shaley Howard Regular Contributor

TJAcena

Arts & Entertainment

George Nicola GLAPN Historian

Suzanne Deakins,Ph.D.,H.W.M. Regular Contributor GLAPN

SALES TEAM larry lewis

Sales Representative larry@pqmonthly.com

lynda Wilkinson Sales Representative lynda@pqmonthly.com

National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com

photographers Dax McMillan

REVOLUTIONARIES OF THE MILLENNIUM We say the Water Protectors are the revolutionaries of this millennium because they have taught us a global lesson – The lesson being: War is won without a single weapon fired at the enemy.

The Elders and their children have been teaching us a lesson in that one can be strong in spirit, but the collective unified is unstoppable.

Although there is a pause at the camps as we wait for the President-Elect and his new administration to take their office, we are uncertain if the new administration will adhere to its citizens, the rights of souvenir nation(s), and to the recommendations of the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers.

Or will we continue to allow the indoctrination of our children into war continue and sacrifice them to the profiteers of the G.O.D we have been forced to fear and trust (Gold, Oil, Diamonds), then mourn the land soaked with their innocent blood…all in the name of saving some cash Black Friday. We as a global community have outgrown what the Petro and/or Fiat economies can do. Additional, the Water Protectors Revolution has taught us that we may have to abandon colonial democracy!

TIME TO HEAL

Photographer

Nestor Miranda Photographer

Columnists &contributors

Samantha L. Taylor, Michael James Schneider, Summer Seasons, Marco Davis, Kathryn Martini, Sally Mulligan, Katey Pants, Max Voltage, Queer Intersections

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Veterans Ask for Forgiveness and Healing in Standing Rock An article published on Indian Country News’ website on December 11, 2016, Valerie Taliman noted: In the presence of hundreds of veterans and Lakota medicine people, elders, and leaders, Clark donned the uniform of the Seventh Cav-

alry and spoke of the history of his unit. With tears in his eyes, Clark said: “Many of us, me particularly, are from the units that have hurt you over the many years.

We came. We fought you. We took your land. We signed treaties that we broke. We stole minerals from your sacred hills. We blasted the faced of our presidents onto your sacred mountain. Then we took still more land, and then we took your children, and then we tried to make your language, and we tried to eliminate your language that God gave you, and the Creator gave you.

We didn’t respect you, we polluted your Earth, we’ve hurt you in so many ways, but we’ve come to say that we are sorry. We are at your service, and we beg for your forgiveness.”

Chief Leonard Crow Dog, a Lakota medicine man from Rosebud, S.D., held his hand over Clark’s head as he made a prayer to cleanse and forgive the officers kneeling before him.

Many veterans in the room cried during the ceremony, acknowledging the long history of warfare against “first Americans” seeking to protect their homelands.

Among those who spoke and accepted the apology were 19th Generation Keeper of the White Buffalo Calf Pipe Chief Arvol Looking Horse, elders Faith Spotted Eagle, Phyllis Young, Paula Horne, Jon Eagle Sr. and several other Lakota leaders.

Ivan Looking Horse sang a prayer song as veterans lined up to hug and shake hands in an emotional moment 140 years in the making.

Chief Crow Dog told the crowd that “we do not own the land, the land owns us,” and urged world peace.

“I did it because I saw people in pain, and I hate seeing injustice,” said Clark, son of retired four-star General Wesley Clark. “I hate to see people have to accept injustice and saying you’re crazy if you want to do something about it. It’s easy to fix things. People just have to understand what the truth is and act on it.

“There’s no reason anyone who lives in the United States should be treated the way Native Americans have been treated. It’s evil. It’s wrong and part of the pattern of colonialism. All the decisions are made thousands of miles away,

#SeeYouAsStandingRock January 20, 2017!

Until then may you round out your 2016 safe, protected, and provided for!

I see and love you with all of me, Melanie

A SMATTERING OF WHAT YOU’LL FIND INSIDE: Cascade Aids Project Wins Prestigious Award............. Page 5

Peace On Earth the Biggest Myth............................... Page 14

Safety In Public In This Tense Post-Election Climate..... Page 6

Prepare For A Trump Presidency.................................... Page 15

HOROSCOPE- Stars TrendS..................................... Page 7

Embody: Where my hope is rooted ............................ Page 16

Portland Gay Mens Chorus Celebrating 37 Years!....... Page 8

Secret Life Of Summer Seasons: Playing Nice............. Page 18

Cascade AIDS Project..................................................... Page 10 THE NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE OF PQ MONTHLY IS RIVENDELL MEDIA, INC.

and the all the money goes to people thousands of miles away,” he added.

“The Dakota Access Pipeline is going to make money at the expense of the health and lives of people who live here. That’s how it worked 500 years ago, and that’s how it works today. They want to get Indians off the land, and for what?

So they can destroy it for money.

“I’m on a mission to tell people that if we don’t do anything to seriously reduce hydrocarbon emissions in the next eight years, there is nothing that is going to stop the extinction of the human race,” Clark continued.

“I can promise you that in the next 12 months we are going to destroy the hydrocarbon industry. I don’t mean trying to damage anything—we are just going to tell people the truth about what it’s doing to them. We have less than eight years to get this country and most countries to zero or negative carbon emissions, he said. “I have 11and 12-year sons, and I’m not going to let them die so some SOB can put money in his pocket.

Think about this very pipeline: There’s a man who has more than a billion dollars, and he feels he needs more. And he needs to hurt people to get it. He’s had dogs attack people; he’s had people put in jail and taken their freedom away. He’s disrespected them, and for what? If you can’t live off a billion dollars, then how much is enough?”

Phyllis Young, a Standing Rock Sioux representative, said, “The black snake has never stopped. If they didn’t stop at desecrating our graves of our ancestors, they’d stop at nothing.

We are a peaceful movement, but we may have to make a move to protect our territory.”

Today was a day of remembrance. It’s very powerful for the military to intersect with Oceti Sakowin, the Seven Council Fires of the Lakota, as part of our historical healing journey,” said Spotted Eagle, an elder, and grandmother who counsels veterans with PTSD as part of her work.

“Our people carry intergenerational trauma, and there’s much work to be done. I feel protected and honored to work with our warriors and veterans, and we’re thankful they came to stand with us.”

AND MUCH MORE!

BRILLIANT MEDIA LLC, DBA EL HISPANIC NEWS & PQ MONTHLY.

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GLAPN

LOCAL

CASCADE AIDS PROJECT WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

George T. Nicola, GLAPN

Portland’s iconic Cascade AIDS Project (CAP) has won the prestigious 2016 Light A Fire (LAF) Award, which is given by Portland Monthly Magazine.

The magazine states “Light A Fire is Portland Monthly’s annual showcase of local individuals and organizations making Portland a better place to live, love, give, and grow.” CAP won the award for the category “KEEPING US HEALTHY.” Portland Monthly’s award narrative stated that CAP was founded in 1983 “when AIDS was still a death sentence. Three decades later, CAP has blossomed into a 60-staffer juggernaut that serves more than 400 people each month—from providing HIV testing to housing and job placement, as well inspiring AIDS groups nationwide with its holistic thinking. Now, armed with studies that show that sexual minorities suffer from major health disparities

beyond HIV, CAP has expanded its mission to improve LGBTQ health in general, while reminding Oregonians that HIV is still a real and serious threat.”

The article also highlights CAP’s new LGBTQ-focused, 8,467- square-foot health center scheduled to open early next year.

The center aims to create a “safe, affirming, non-judgmental” space for LGBTQ Portlanders, who can feel alienated by hospitals and doctors.

“As the epidemic has evolved, so has the organization,” says CAP’s Executive Director Tyler TerMeer. “We’re a role model for transformation.”

You can read the whole article at h t t p : / / w w w. p d x m o n t h l y. c o m / a r t i cles/2016/10/10/cascade-aids-project-serves-more-than-400-people-eachmonth.

Thank you, Portland Monthly, for recognizing an organization that has done so much for our community.

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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 • 5

COMMUNITY

SAFETY IN PUBLIC IN THIS TENSE POST-ELECTION CLIMATE community, maintain a healthy awareness over your environment, take steps to protect yourself and look after community members.

SAFETY PLANNING FOR PUBLIC PLACES Many people will not encounter hateful incidents.

However, it is a good idea to consider personal safety while out in public. Some steps you can take: Be alert and aware of your surroundings while in public. Lengthy distractions such as using your phone can draw your attention away from your surroundings.

Follow your intuition and act on it. Listen to that feeling or voice telling you that something is unsafe.

Protect your personal space. As advised by the Portland Police Bureau’s WomenStrength* Program, “Displaying a confident and decisive attitude can communicate that our personal space will not be violated easily.”

By the City of Portland’s Crime Prevention Program for PQ Monthly

According to the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), 437 incidents of hateful intimidation and harassment have been reported in the United States following the election (through November 14th). Nineteen of these have been reported in Oregon. Most of these occurrences do not involve physical contact.

Identify potential allies that you can turn to in a time of need in public. This may include a bus driver, a store clerk and other pedestrians.

Alter plans when necessary to escape or avoid a bad situation. For example, if you are driving and someone is continuing to yell at you from another vehicle, change your direction or stop at a place where help is available.

The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) defines bias crime as “any criminal act that targets a victim based on the suspect’s perception of the victim’s race, color, religion, national origin or sexual orientation.” According to the PPB, they investigate all reported incidents of bias crimes and encourage any member of our community who is the victim of such a crime to contact law enforcement.

If you have a regular route you travel every day, identify places and people you can turn to for support.

The City of Portland’s Crime Prevention Program remains committed to serving all community members of Portland, including the undocumented community. The City has a long-standing commitment to serving all residents regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age or disability.

Call 9-1-1 for an immediate threat to life or property or a crime in progress. If it is not an immediate threat, you can contact the police non-emergency number at 503-823-3333.

During this time of unrest, we encourage you to build

Get angry if people try to harm you. WomenStrength states, “You have the absolute right to live your life free of violence. Your anger can help you to overcome fear and has the potential to scare off an attacker.”

HELPING OTHERS If you see someone harassing or making racist remarks to another person, do what you can do to support the affected individual. Here are some tips:

Assess the safety of the situation and your intuition to determine how you will be involved. Can you intervene to help this person? Is there someone else in the environment that you can alert for help? Do you need to call the police?

Engage in unexpected behavior. The aggressor expects the victim and bystanders to engage in a heated exchange or cower. A helpful technique that has been widely shared involves a bystander: Approaching and engaging the victim in a calm and friendly conversation on a random subject while ignoring the aggressor.

Building a safe space by continuing the conversation, maintaining eye contact and continuing to ignore the aggressor.

Escorting the victim to a safe place if the aggressor remains in the area.

INTERRUPT AGGRESSION WITH COMMUNICATION Say something. Depending on the situation, that may be a forceful statement to stop the behavior.

Do something. If it feels too dangerous to speak up, nonverbal interactions can be impactful. For example, you can stand by the individual under attack and make eye contact with him or her, so that it is clear you are a support. In some situations, brief, serious, direct eye contact with an aggressor may make them reconsider their actions.

If you need crime prevention assistance, please contact us. We need to look out for one another during this challenging time. *WomenStrength is a program through the Portland Police Bureau offering free self-defense courses in English and Spanish for women and co-ed personal safety classes for community groups.

To learn more about the Crime Prevention Program, visit the City of Portland’s Crime Prevention Program website at www.portlandoregon.gov/oni/cp for English; portlandoregon.gov/oni/prevencion for Spanish or call 503-823-4064.

FEATURES

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HOROSCOPE

STAR TRENDS LET THE LIGHT SHINE

By Robert McEwen

The Holiday season brings many different symbols in many cultures. All most all of them are based on the alignment of the stars during the period commonly call Solstice.

Christmas (and its timing) is based on astrology. The three wise men were astrologers and found the Star of Bethlehem (the North Star), guided them to the holy being of Light: The Christ Self. They carried symbolic gifts of myrrh, frankincense, and gold. These represent compassion, understanding, and Truth. We have created these myths (stories) to help explain our concept of a higher power be it called God, Buddha, or Truth.

All of these myths around the 29 different holidays during this December and January winter season come from an astrological event. There are the same myths of the birth and death and resurrection in the ancient myth of Horus, Krishna, and Mithras, all declaring the three days of darkness and then resurrection. This can be tracked to the Winter Solstice, between Dec 20th and the 23rd, the 3 darkest days of the year, and the resurrection of the Sun God.

This is astrological and astronomical in nature. The tradition of bonfires, candles came because those days were so dark. Now we have the tradition of Christmas lights, trees, and candles and a burning fireplace fire from that Northern European tradition.

Another tradition, the holy cross, is the division of the four equinoxes and in the annual calendar being divided into quarters.

The cross symbol combines the 4 different times astrologically. This symbol of rebirth of the Sun is as the Sun of the Universe the Bible chooses to name “the Son of God!” Frazer’s Golden Bough declares the time of light returning (Solstice, Winter Equinox) when the Kings were born. They were conceived on the Spring Equinox.

The Sun is in Capricorn traditionally during Solstice, and so we see ourselves replaying the traditions that gives us meaning and purpose to those dark times. We as consciousness are able to cross out the old and become renewed with hope and joy.

The advent, the coming of the light, plays out in all religions and cultures.

Mercury the planet of communication is now in Capricorn. You will see and feel that the traditions are a natural way of communicating with those around you.

Happy solstice and happy holiday no matter what your tradition.

Robert McEwen is an astrologer and has been practicing as a professional since 1977 around the planet and has settled here in Portland. Contact information for an appointment for your personal astrological consultation is: Phone 503-706-0396 email:robbystarman@aol.com, gift certificates available

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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 • 7

FEATURE

PORTLAND GAY MENS CHORUS CELEBRATING 37 YEARS!

By Shaley Howard, PQ Monthly

Last month the Portland Gay Men’s Chorus (PGMC) kicked off their 37th opening season with a titillating performing of Shameless: An Adult-Only Cabaret. As someone who’s known a little about the PGMC over the years but been more of a sideline fan, I have to say this show was thoroughly entertaining, hilarious and dripping with all sorts of playful sexiness that left even the most voracious appetite quenched. This of course only made me want to learn more about this outstanding chorus.

For those unfamiliar with the PGMC, it was created in 1980 after founding member, Mark Richards attended a concert of the San Francisco gay men’s chorus and became thrilled with the idea of starting a gay men’s chorus here in Portland. He met with Mark Jones and Gary Coleman at “Wilde Oscars” to discuss ideas on where to begin. They decided to place an ad in the local newspaper, and the PGMC was born! Over the course of the last 37 years, there have been more than a thousand members from many different countries, ages, and ethnicities. The eclectic composition is also reflected in their work with their performances ranging from light-hearted sassy show tunes to original works reflecting the complexities of human emotion.

One of the amazing things about the PGMC is they’ve always had a drive toward inclusivity and accessibility. So even though the title of “Portland Gay Men’s Chorus” seems exclusive they are welcoming of everyone. It’s even written in their bylaws that, “Anyone shall be eligible for membership in the chorus, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, 8 • DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017

sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital or veteran’s status, or disability.”

Women have been a part of PGMC since the 1990’s when Phylis Myles became the first female president. “In our organization, women have been singers, board members, staff members, and volunteers. PGMC has shared its stage with women’s choruses including Portland Lesbian Choir, Sound Circle (Boulder) and Soromundi (Eugene). In 1999, PGMC produced a concert featuring women composers, In Celebration of Women, including the premiere of four PGMC commissions of women composers.” – PGMC Website. Translation: If you’re brave enough to belt out America the Beautiful and have the vocal chops to sell it, they’ll welcome you with open arms.

“We see a growing inclusiveness in our chorus community beyond just gay men; joining us on stage are lesbians, heterosexuals, bisexuals, queer & questioning, women, trans-males, trans-females, gender queer, intersex, non-binary and more.”

– commented current chorus President Gary Coleman.”

It should also come as no surprise that PGMC has taken an active political role in the LGBTQ community over the years.

Founded only a year before the AIDS epidemic began, their mission to “honor and uplift the gay community and affirm the worth of all people,” has remained a politically resonant act that is all too important in keeping our community strong and safe. Back in the 1990’s when Lon Mabon and the Oregon Citizens Alliance were trying to pass anti-gay legislation with Measure 9 and 13, the PGMC received a Special Recognition Award from the Metropolitan Human Relations Commission

for their fight against discrimination. They also received the Lucille Hart Award from Right to Privacy in 1990 for distinguished service to the gay & lesbian community.

In 2007 the PGMC commissioned a cantata in response to the Iraq war. “It’s a dark, but ultimately uplifting work that examines the human consequences of war as seen through the eyes of a mother who loses her child in battle. It’s probably PGMC’s most important commission across our 37-year history.” – remarked Artistic Director Bob Mensel.

Perhaps this piece will take on a new meaning after the first hundred days of the Trump Administration and all the fear, anger and sadness we’ve been and will be experiencing as a community. Better be there in a concert hall with over a hundred gay (and queer) voices sing in unison can’t help but be powerful, moving and ultimately hopeful.

The PGMC will have their Annual Holiday Night Monday, December 19th that you can still catch! In February bring your Valentine as they’re performing “Love Struck,” a more intimate event featuring chorus soloist singing a variety of love songs. And in March they have a performance called, “Peace, Love, and Misunderstanding.” This is a concert dedicated to reflecting on the current state of our nation and offering a message of hope. It will feature the 10th-anniversary performance of notable PGMC commission BraveSouls & Dreamers, dedicated to the memory of Robert Espindola, its librettist.

For more information about PGMC and their upcoming events visit their website: www.pdxgmc.org. pqmonthly.com

LOCAL NEWS

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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 • 9

NEWS COMMUNITY

CASCADE AIDS PROJECT ANNOUNCES NEW MISSION STATEMENT & NAME FOR LGBTQ+ PRIMARY CARE HEALTH CENTER and to remember those who have lost their lives in the epidemic.

In commemoration of World AIDS Day, Cascade AIDS Project (CAP) announced that it has adopted a new mission statement to enable the agency to better serve its existing clients and expand services to provide direct medical care to the broader LGBTQ+ community through the creation of a new LGBTQ+ Primary Care Health Center slated to open in early 2017.

CAP’s new mission:

December 1, 2016 – Portland, OR – Today, December 1st, marks the 29th anniversary of World AIDS Day – a time for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV/ AIDS, to show their support for people living with HIV

10 • DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017

We s u p p o r t a n d empower all people with or affected by HIV, reduce stigma, and provide the LGBTQ+ community with compassionate healthcare “Our new mission statement reflects both our 32-year

history of fighting the HIV epidemic as well as our move to providing culturally relevant healthcare to the broader LGBTQ+ community through our new health center,” said CAP Executive Director Tyler TerMeer. “I am also thrilled to announce the name of the health center: Prism Health.

The name is a nod to the rich history of the LGBTQ+ liberation movement and an evocation of the power of science to be used in service of the community.” A new logo and website for Prism Health will be launched in the in the coming year.

“CAP will always be here to work with and support people affected by HIV, but it was also time to look towards the future—which is providing culturally affirming healthcare to the LGBTQ+ community,” said CAP Board Chair, Robert Goman, “With a growing LGBTQ+ population, we need to take action now to ensure that their health needs are met.”

About Cascade AIDS Project Cascade AIDS Project is the oldest and largest AIDS Service Organization in Oregon and Southwest Washington. Prism Health, a primary care health center, an integral part of CAP’s expanding mission to serve the broader LGBTQ+ community and will help remove barriers and improve access to health care for all LGBTQ+ individuals. More information can be found at www. cascadeaids.org.

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VOICES

COMING TOGETHER TO PREPARE: WHAT IT MEANS TO CREATE A LEGAL ID CHANGE PAPERWORK CLINIC Dr. Eowyn Rieke, MD MPH: As a health care provider I work with transgender and gender non-conforming people and am familiar with the enormous barriers to care in our system. This was a chance to help people leap over some of those barriers to get the documentation they need. I am frightened for my trans* friends and patients and want to do whatever I can to help them feel safe and be safe.

Miriam Gwilt, local activist and artist: To be honest, I wasn’t planning on being at the ID clinic. I had recently been attacked at a bus stop and didn’t want to be around more than a handful of people at a time. I’d agreed to do some phone banking for TAP, but they had too much help. Scout told me that she needed help tabling at the ID clinic instead, so that’s where I went. I was seeking a way to impact my community by offering what energy I could to edify and support those around me.

By: Sossity Chiricuzio

Queer/Trans folks are walking a post-election landscape that is scary for myriad and intersecting reasons, including medical needs, safety, and identity. Changing name and gender markers is a complicated maze; hard to navigate even when you have resources and time. Multiple local organizations, care providers, and community members came together (thanks in large part to the organization skills of Neola Hayes) to offer a free legal ID change paperwork clinic. Forms were printed for free by Morel Ink, the Q Center donated their space, and everyone involved volunteered their time and labor.

Paperwork and questions are not the only barriers, either—the fees required for all these changes can also be prohibitive, which is where TAP (Trans Assistance Project) came in. A permanent fund replenished through donations and grants; that exists to finance legal/ID changes and healthcare for trans folks in need. They worked with each person, assessing what fees would be involved, and writing them a check to cover those costs.

Almost $2300 was dispersed to many of the 200 people who were helped in that 4-hour clinic, causing the staff at the Multnomah County Courthouse to have to start stacking notices by day.

PQ: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BE A PART OF THE ID CLINIC, AND WHAT WAS YOUR ROLE? Jess Guerriero, OHSU Transgender Health Program: We’ve seen an increase in anxiety and questions surrounding trans experiences in general. I was a navigator and DMV form signer, and being part of the clinic was a direct way to help reduce barriers to help people reduce anxiety and increase feelings of safety.

Joe LeBlanc, Communications Manager at Camp Fire Columbia: I was inspired by the significant number of trans folks and allies collectively coming together to help trans people in need to get resources to change their identity documents. I was a navigator at the clinic, helping to connect people with useful information, dispel some of their misconceptions and worst case fears, and also make sure they had the forms necessary. pqmonthly.com

PQ: WHAT WAS YOUR IMPRESSION OF HOW THE EVENING WENT, AND WHO WAS SERVED? Dr. Angela Carter, ND, Founder of The Equi Institute: The event was very busy and fast paced, but we managed to get everyone through with documents in hand. Many in attendance did not have a primary care or mental health providers, which caused a great barrier to them having correct legal documents. The difference between an M and an F on a license can mean life or death to a transgender person; an accurate marker can help to prevent harassment and discrimination, and affirms gender identity.

TAP: We can honestly say that it was quite a pivotal moment for us. To be able to see such a turnout from the Portland community redefined the meaning of hope.

Seeing the stress flee from each individual, knowing they would not have to participate in a grating and often the dehumanizing process, is the beating heart of what this project is all about. To sum it up: we were moved.

Joe LeBlanc: The event was super well run, packed with lots of people in need, and well organized. People who were there to advocate for their trans children. Doctors were signing letters to help patients to advocate better for themselves. The community was there looking out for each other like we do in times of great stress and fear. I felt so proud to be a part of a team pitching in to get things done however we could.

PQ: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WAS INTERESTED IN HELPING MAKE SOMETHING LIKE THIS HAPPEN IN THEIR OWN COMMUNITY? Dr. Angela Carter: A clinic like this can be organized with just a few providers and volunteers and very little resources, but it can make such a difference for so many. I welcome clinicians and interested activists to contact me to learn more about how we put the clinic together. dr.angela@equi-institute.org Jess Guerriero: I’d say make sure everyone is prepared with accurate information and don’t be afraid to make an ask of community professionals/local resources.

TAP: Reach out to your local LGBTQIA+ resource and any

neighboring communities, however remote. Reserve your energy for the long term, only use what is in your capacity for the immediate. Work in groups, never alone. Remind your straight and cis friends what it means to be an ally, and stress the importance of contributing their privileges and resources. Love each other, each and every day.

Miriam Gwilt: Contact folks doing the work. Don’t try to reinvent the wheel. Believe in the possibility of people doing something kind because they see you and your struggle and want to help in ways that offer you agency and validation. Show up in every way you can because that is really needed right now. Remember it isn’t just about you, but that you matter and there is a place for you to show up.

Dr. Lucy Reeve, ND: This whole night came about because people in the community felt the urgency and the panic and used that to create something to help fix the problems. Every single person there volunteered their time and was happy to do so. People want to help, people want to be involved, it just takes someone who can organize and delegate to get it together.

PQ: CAN YOU TELL US HOW TAP STARTED, WHO IT IS MEANT TO SERVE INDIVIDUALLY, AND WHAT YOUR NEXT STEPS ARE? HOW CAN PEOPLE BEST SUPPORT YOUR EFFORTS? TAP: TAP started as a direct response to the election of Donald Trump. Scout Wolfcave, our founder, released Google doc’s on Facebook entitled, “Donor/Recipient Project.” The idea was that trans folks and donors could be matched based on the needs stated in these applications.

This quickly got the attention of Nina Chaubal and Greta Martela from Trans Lifeline, our now co-founders, and TAP began to blossom overnight. Our purpose is to allow trans folks to access basic medical care, to help them in the navigation of complex bureaucratic systems, and to afford them a baseline standard of living that we all deserve, through both financial and advocacy-based support.

Behind the scenes, we are working to create and train a team of support advocates that will work directly with each recipient in our system. Volunteers are also working to create our database of legal and medical professionals/resources so we can better determine funds and criteria needed to expedite paperwork at future ID Clinics, and who we can safely pair with on a national level. We’ve accomplished a great deal in less than two months than we ever could imagine, and we anticipate this pace on until Trump’s inauguration.

We are asking our community to help us get the word out about TAP on whatever social media outlets you can. Those who wish to donate or volunteer, please visit transassistance.org. We have raised over $15k in little over three weeks. It’s stellar, but it’s not enough to cover the amount that TAP needs to fund our recipients thus far. For those of you who need assistance: fill out a request form on our website, and we will be in contact with you soon! Many thanks to all of those who have helped us so far, we are so grateful to the Portland community and their hard work.

Sossity Chiricuzio is a writer and columnist based out of Portland, Oregon. She is a regular contributor to PQ Monthly and focuses on social justice, communication, community, and changing the world. You can reach her at sossity@ pqmonthly.com or follow her online @sossitywrites.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 • 11

CALENDAR

1

GET

OUT! Want more? We’ll give you everything. Head over to pqmonthly.com and check out our online calendar of events, submit your own events, and send photos for your event. Also, remember to carefully examine our weekly weekend forecast — with the latest and greatest events — each Wednesday (sometimes Thursday), online only.

--OLIVIA OLIVIA, CALENDAR EDITOR PQ MONTHLY

2 DANCE

IT OUT

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16

The 7th Annual Chrismahanukwanzakah Join the community for an incredible Portland tradition that brings out the best in all of us - including our cash and our best burlesque!

This seasonal showcase will feature Ivana Mandalay, Taylor Maiden, Lola Couquette, Arabella de Lioncourt, Scarlett Marie Thrustmore, Dominoe DeSoto, and Lascivious Lori Lenore. You won’t want to miss out on this fabulous event! Cover is $12 general admission at the door, with $15 to $18 VIP tickets available at tickets. burlescape.com. Doors open at 8:30 p.m., show starts at 9 at Crush Bar, 1400 SE Morrison St.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

Naughty or Nice a Variety Show. You’re invited to a wonderful holiday-themed variety show and fundraiser. This event is to raise some FUNds for a community member’s life changing surgery needs.

This epic show of incredibly talented and entertaining acts

EVERY SUNDAY

Drag Brunch: Testify at Stag with Alexis Campbell Starr.

From 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. every Sunday, Starr brings you the city’s hottest drag performers, drink specials (5 for $5 mimosas, $5 American Harvest Bloody Marys), and tasty brunch. Be there promptly at 11, children—it’s a sell-out crowd.

Stag, 317 NW Broadway.

Superstar Divas. Bolivia Carmichaels, Honey Bea Hart, Topaz Crawford, Isaiah Tillman, and guest stars perform your favorite pop, Broadway, R&B, rock, and country hits.

Dance floor opens after the show. Check out the newest and freshest Diva hits, plus a variety of diverse talent. 8 p.m., CC Slaughters, 219 NW Davis. Free!

EVERY MONDAY

Family Home Evening. A weekly, post-work lounge party every Monday night at Vault, featuring DJ Orographic (Bridge Club, Queerlandia) and occasional special guests (Sappho fills in now and then). Jens Irish serves you happy hour all the live long night. 7 p.m.-11 p.m., Vault, 226 NW 12.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

Amateur night at Stag PDX, though they won’t look like amateurs, trust.

12 • DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017

will bring the community together to support each other in time of need and joy, and will feature Panzy Revolution and DieAna Dae. Cover is a $5 - $10 sliding donation. Doors open at 9:30 p.m. at Crush Bar, 1400 SE Morrison St.

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Homo For The Holidays. It’s that time of year when the streets are wet, the lights are flashing and CC Slaughters throws a holiday party for all the misfits boytoys and girls! Come get naughty with your friends and nice with your sexy bartenders (they appreciate your tips!). Enjoy drink specials from 3 to 7 p.m. and 10 to 11 p.m. and your favorite Ice Queen Bolivia Carmichaels at the bar, or on the dancefloor, as she is mistress of ceremonies and knows how to get the party started. 9 p.m. at CC Slaughters, 219 NW Davis St.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18

Drop-In Paperwork Clinic. Need help getting trans specific paperwork done? This drop-in clinic will offer assistance with name changes in Oregon state, drivers license updates, gender marker changes, passport updates, and more.

A Spanish interpreter will also be available, along with doctors,

Hosted by Godiva Devyne, come gawk at the pretty dancers.

And talk some shit with the Devyne Ms. G. 9 p.m., Stag PDX, 317 NW Broadway.

EVERY THURSDAY

Hip Hop Heaven. Bolivia Carmichaels hosts this hip-hop-heavy soiree night every Thursday night at CCs. Midnight guest performers and shows. Remember those midnight shows at The City? Bolivia does! 9 p.m., CC Slaughters, 219 NW Davis. Free.

FIRST SATURDAYS

Hard Yes presents: Yes Please! Yes Please is a monthly queer dance party for the dark, dirty and fabulous who just wanna dance. The party also features guest performers from Portland and beyond plus resident DJ Sappho alongside a rotating lineup of guest DJ’s providing you with a healthy dose of: House, techno, deep disco and hard f*ggotry. Cover $7. 21+. 9 p.m. at Holocene, 1001 SE Morrison St. Sugar Town. DJ Action Slacks. Keywords: Soul, polyester.

Great place to find the ladies, to mingle, to get your groove on. 9 p.m., The Spare Room, 4830 NE 42. $5.

Pop Rocks! 80s music aficionado DJ Matt Consola (Bearracuda) is hosting a very special 80s anthem night at Euphoria Nightclub. The space will be enhanced with an 80s theme featuring dancers, games and an official Dungeons & Dragons

Q J o q There’s no cover, but everyone is wine to support the house. Bring rhymes, finished or unfinished. All 8 p.m. at Devil’s Den, 1520 NE A

B m s f B i c s C the course. 7 - 8 p.m. at Bridgetow

Gaming Table, visuals, rad 80s movies, drink specials, a photo booth, coat check and special guest DJs. 10 p.m., Euphoria, 315 SE 3. No cover.

Pants Off Dance Off. Come get bold and bawdy at Crush Bar’s monthly clothing-optional dance event, a bar-asyou-dare safe space to break character without risking your day job (no cell phone photos allowed, folks!) Come early—the place gets packed and space is limited. $5 cover after 9 p.m. with a clothes check for $2. 1400 SE Morrison St.

SECOND TUESDAYS

Bi Bar—every second Tuesday at Crush, and it’s an open, bi-affirming space for music and mingling. Correction: Bi/ Pan/Fluid/Queer. 8 p.m., Crush, 1400 SE Morrison.

SECOND FRIDAYS

Slo Jams is a Queer Modern R&B & Neo Soul Dance Night at Local Lounge. DJ II TRILL (TWERK) and DJ MEXXXTAPE lay down everything from Mary J // Jagged Edge// Keyshia to Badu// Lauryn Etc. 10 p.m., Local Lounge, 3536 NE MLK. $5.

Hot Flash: Inf

p.m.-10 p.m., T

Bump, grind an Gay Skate. Lo out copies of PQ Every third Mon Oaks Park, 780

Beareoke PD

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herapists, lawyers, and childcare. 10 .m. to 5 p.m. at UNA Gallery, 328 NW Broadway Ave. #117.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22

Queer Poetry Takeover.

Join the December edition of this laid-back, monthly, queer-as-heck open mic. s encouraged to buy some words, song, and/or l are welcome. 6 p.m. to Alberta St.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 3

Bash Back! Don’t wait for the homophobes to knock you around - get some basic self-defense knowledge from this free ongoing course at Bridgetown Aikido. This regularly meeting class will cover basic self-defense, conflict resolution, and body awareness skills. Eddie Frager, the Founder and Chief Instructor of the school, will teach wn Aikido, 336 NE 28th Ave.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 6

Trans Community Town Hall. Join a meeting to discuss opportunities and community with other trans folks and allies. Several organizations will be invited to come to the table and speak about important initiatives to progress trans right, and there will be an open conversation where community members can share their fears and concerns regarding our new political climate. 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Q Center, 4115 N. Mississippi Ave. Down and Dirty Luck Be A Lady Burlesque and Dance Party. Do you feel lucky? Well do you?

This naughty dance party is a benefit for Portland’s Sex Positive Education and Events Center and is open to everyone old enough to get in the club. Because it’s Friday the 13th, wear something that references luck (or BAD luck!) and receive 5 free raffle tickets. Performers include MC Terrika St. James (HIG Miss Gay Oregon XXXV), The Fabulous Johnny-O and others. A silent auction of items that support kink, sex, and self care will be out, with raffle tickets starting at $1 each. 7 p.m. at Embers, 110 NW Broadway Ave.

SECOND SATURDAYS

ferno. (Second and Fourth Saturdays) In the heart of Portland is where the women are—dancing the night away and burning up dance floors the second and fourth Saturdays of every month at Trio. Welcoming all women, queers, and their allies. DJ Lauren joins Wildfire, and this night features dancers from up and down the I-5 corridor. 6 Trio, 909 E. Burnside.

THIRD MONDAYS

nd crash into your favorite queer friends at ook for our publisher, who’s always handing Q. And, you know, you’ll probably get a date. nday. Food drive for Take Action Inc. 7 p.m., 05 SE Oaks Park Way. $6.

THIRD TUESDAYS

DX is BACK! Invite all the bears & chasers you know who karaoke.

Free! 9 p.m. at Scandals, 1125 SW Stark St.

ED BY

THIRD WEDNESDAYS

Comedy at Crush: Belinda Carroll and a slew of locals rustle up some funny.

Special guests, and Crush’s signature cocktail and food pqmonthly.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 13

menus. Donations, sliding scale. (Comics have to eat and drink, too, so give!)

9 p.m., Crush, 1400 SE Morrison.

THIRD SATURDAYS

Burlescape! Burlesque & boylesque wrapped in a taste of tease! Zora Phoenix, Isaiah Esquire, Tod Alan. 9 p.m., Crush, 1400 SE Morrison. $10. We’re featuring all of Zora’s events online, so get on the net.

Stranger Disco. An always-packed North Portland favorite queer dance party on North Williams; DJs Stormy Roxx, Vera Rubin and Sappho. 21+, $10, starts at 9 p.m., District East, 4306 N. Williams Ave.

FOURTH FRIDAYS

Blow Pony. Check out the classic PDX party’s new venue.

Here’s your raunchiest, fruitiest, grittiest, freakiest most fabulous packed dance party. This month’s edition ChristMess with Lady Bear! 9 p.m., Bossanova Ballroom, 722 E Burnside St. $7.

FOURTH SATURDAYS

Judy on Duty.

Lesbian hardcore.

Judys, Judes, and cool ass freaks. Dance it out. DJ Troubled Youth.

Organized by Ana Margarita and Megan Holmes. 10 p.m., High Mark Water Lounge, 6800 NE MLK.

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CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS

Club Kai-Kai Presents Amanda Lepore. Club Kai-Kai proudly presents The Most Expensive Body On Earth - Amanda Lepore : Live in Concert! They’re combining all elements that define Amanda Lepore into one holiday extravaganza: decadence, behemoth personalities, glamour, and fierce music that will make the legendary children swing from the rafters. To close out 2016 we are going full-force dripping in diamonds opulence fantasy; we’ve got club kids, gogo dancers, multiple photographers/paparazzi, art installations, ice sculptures, two guest DJs, opening burlesque performances by goddess Miss Prys and the queen herself, Amanda Lepore.

DJs Buckmaster, Ill Camino, and Thumper will be lighting up the dance floor all night, in addition to a bevy of gogo dancers, club kids and hosts keeping your senses in overload.

After midnight there will be a live performance on the Main Stage by Amanda, plus a few other surprises from the starlet of the night.

Now for those of you who need some extra Lepore love, they have a special VIP Utopia upstairs that includes a private bar, views of the main stage and dance floor, and a holiday photo booth session with Amanda. So get yourself ready and throw some glitter on your back, we’re having ourselves a club kid holiday! General admission tickets are $10 on presale and can be purchased at tinyurl.com/amandaleporePDX. $15 general admission at the doors. VIP Area tickets are $35 include admission, personal bar, holiday photo session with Amanda Lepore, balcony view, and Lepore and her friends hosting the VIP area. VIP table tickets for 5 are $250 and include a reserved table overlooking stage and dance floor with a private hangout with Lepore and group portrait drawing by Menorah Horwitz.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Say F*CK 2016! Do it in the biggest way possible by dancing the night away with drink specils, a balloon drop at midnight, and sweet tunes by DJ Aurora! Enjoy your favorite cocktails and food in a space the represents the best and brightest of the Portland LGBTQ community and bring the year of losing Bowie, Prince, Mohammed Ali, Fidel Castro, and Alan Rickman to it’s knees. As far as we know it’s the end of the world as we know it, but we feel fine - and will be feeling finer with a few cocktails and a make-out session in the backroom. 9 p.m on December 31st at Crush Bar, 1400 SE Morrison St. NYE Platinum Ball 2017. Looking for a party on the other side of town? We got the west side covered too! Enjoy music spinning courtesy of DJ Robb and DJ Jakob Jay along with a complimentary champagne toast on one of the best dance-floors in Portland. Bolivia Carmichaels will be counting down the hour with you as she hosts the night and keeps the party hopping! $20, 8 p.m., CC Slaughters, 219 NW Davis St.

GAY WIZARDS

Hogwarts School of Bitchcraft is open and you’ve been selected to begin your magical career thwarting thirst at Hogwarts Thwarts Thirst to ring in 2017. Your magic won’t just bring all the boys to the yard - it’ll also bring much needed cash and resources to benefit Las Memorias Hostel in Tijuana, Mexico, where they are in the midst of battling the epidemic of HIV and tuberculous and in urgent need of a clean water supply for their families, homes, and lives.

You do-gooders will need to report to Platform 9 ¾ which happens to be at Embers, where you will be transported from your couches to witness pure entertainment, passion, and camaraderie - and where you will have a chance to win prizes for your best themed attire and witness which house takes the grand prize!

The sorting hat will commence its work at 6 p.m. Whichever group of performers collectively raises the most for their house wins the grand prize. Your tuition is $10 and is required to reserve your enrollment. $10 enrollment fee. Sunday, January 8, 5 - 8 p.m. at Embers, 110 NW Broadway.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 • 13

VOICES

PEACE ON EARTH THE BIGGEST MYTH country, it is apparent that we are the largest terrorist organization in the world. We destroy the innocent and infrastructure of half the world and call it protecting our country. We have been conned by the government and industrialists that all the killing and hate are for our own good. It is easy to look back and see how evil the killing and displacing American Natives was, but when we look at the present, our eyes become glazed over.

By Suzanne Deakins

I usually like to write a feel good piece about Peace-OnEarth this time of year, but it all seems a bit shallow with the current state of affairs in our world.

While watching Oliver Stone’s The Untold History of the U.S. it became apparent to me that we have been at war since the beginning of this country. Apparently, peace is more costly to money barons than war. Our economy is based a great deal on war. As of 2016 we are at war on many different fronts. The only hope of peace and equity for all is if we stop participating as a country and individuals in the violence.

It feels almost “Pollyanna” to say the way to peace is peace.

Starting in the late 19th Century and into the early 20th U.S. magazines such as the New Republic and NY Times, began a campaign to influence the public in being more liberal in their thinking and changing the horrific life of lower economic people. Out of this grew a billion dollar plus industry designed to control our thoughts and thinking. (Marketing and propaganda campaigns.)

In the U.S.A. we have freedom of expression, but we no longer have freedom of thought. We have been lead to believe the only way to control terrorism is to visit others with our brand of terrorism. If you look at our history as a

On 9/11 the Western World went into shock. It was the first time in hundreds of years we experienced the kind of attack that we (Western World) had perpetuated on others.

This kind of shock has given leaders the go-ahead, to clamp down on our citizens. (The USA PATRIOT Act is an Act of Congress that was signed into law by President George W. Bush on October 26, 2001. With its ten-letter abbreviation (USA PATRIOT) expanded, the full title is “Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001»).

As a country, we gave up quite a bit of freedom with the Patriot Act, including the right to assemble. Our thinking was misdirected to think we were in immediate danger of chemical and atomic warfare. We allowed ourselves to be bamboozled by the actions of those who lacked the moral and ethical values needed to run a country let alone a world power. Equal rights, marriage rights, integration, equal pay, and fair pay were all put on the back burner. Our fear aggression drives were awakened by the fear that we were being attacked. Like in other wars our brother and sisters of color were the first ones on front lines. Military recruited those who had little options economically to forge other life styles.

Tuitions of colleges and tech schools went through the ceiling. This further ensured bodies for military terrorism.

Control of the masses, so to speak, has switched from using strikebreakers to our thought processes with mar-

keting and propaganda. This is how dictators and leaders of countries hook into changing thought. This gives dictators a kind of control that violence no longer does. Hitler used this method to control the thinking of German citizens causing them to rise against Judaism. If we become convinced that Muslims are the threat we can be lead down the same path as Germans in the 1930-40s.

You don’t stop violence by using violence. Killing a leader such as Osama Bin Laden only produces a younger and stronger leaders and groups such as Isle. We have yet to understand or listen to why these groups are in existence.

We have missed the opportunity to look at the individuals and try to understand why they would give up their lives in suicide bombings.

The simplest of solutions is to stop participating in terrorism. Stop committing acts of terror on others as a government and a people. The general populace, we, are more aware, more informed, but our thinking is still being controlled by marketing and propaganda.

Two years ago a U.S. Gallop Poll taken around the globe stated that the majority of leaders and countries see the US as the largest threat to world peace. This was not reported in the U.S. The threat to our nation will come from within.

The fear and hate of anything that seems different or is not understood will menace our very existence. The answer lies within each of us. No outside force is going to protect us or resolve the current situation in the U.S. and our community. We must learn to listen to our accusers, hear and try to comprehend the fear and hate of those who would put us in jeopardy. Only by washing the glaze from our eyes, and beginning to see clearly can we find the path we must walk.

Violence begets violence, and hate begets hate. And most important love and compassion creates love and compassion. We must stop thinking about the “whats” we have been lead to believe and start thinking on our own.

Think with your heart and feel with your mind.

Always have supported LGBT rights, Always will.

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THEME FOR DECEMBER IS: WINTER HOLIDAYS! THEME FOR JANUARY IS: PAJAMAS

Always the 3rd Monday of every month from 7-9pm

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FEATURE

PRACTICAL TIPS: HOW UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS CAN PREPARE FOR A TRUMP PRESIDENCY Erin N. Marcus, New America Media, Question & Answer

MIAMI- Donald J. Trump’s campaign vows to detain and deport “anyone who illegally crosses the border” and revoke DACA, the Obama a d m i n i s t r a t i o n’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy, have sown fear among the 11 million immigrants who reside in the U.S. without official authorization. Americans for Immigrant Justice, a nonprofit advocacy group, has been at the forefront of providing legal services to immigrants in Florida and beyond for two decades. I recently spoke with Adonia R. Simpson, supervising attorney of AIJ’s Children’s Legal Program, to learn more about what her group has observed since Trump was elected.

HOW HAVE YOUR CLIENTS REACTED TO THE RESULTS OF THE ELECTION? There are a lot of people in the community who are very afraid of how this could impact them. We’ve seen a huge uptick in the number of calls (from immigrants) wanting to know what they should do.

WHAT ADVICE ARE YOU GIVING YOUR CLIENTS? We’re hoping for the best, but we want people to prepare for the worst. That means making sure that they have plans, making sure people are aware where relevant documentation is – birth certificates, marriage certificates, tax returns, evidence of their presence here in the United States. Documentation of one’s life here, letters of support documenting that they’re a person of good moral character. All these things might be very important in getting somebody released from detention or perhaps applying for some sort of relief.

If they have children, they should make sure they’ve talked to family members about what happens should they be detained. They should identify trusted individuals who may be able to take care of family members, make sure that they have emergency contact phone numbers available.

Often we’ve even had people apply for powers of attorney not just for their children, but for their resources and assets so that they have somebody to step in and be able to pay rent, sell vehicles, do all the things that might be necessary

for a circumstance where things move quickly. That’s the main thing as far as preparing.

IS THERE ANY ADVICE IN PARTICULAR FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WHO HAVE DACA? The above advice, but also urging them to seek advice from a legal professional with experience in immigration law, to provide them with information about whether they would be eligible for another type of relief. It’s important to make sure these kids are screened to see if may they be eligible for something else, to explore all avenues.

There are other types of humanitarian relief that are available. For example, there’s the U visa which is for victims of crime; there’s a T visa which is for victims of human trafficking. On occasion, they may have a U.S. citizen family member who may be able to petition for them.

DO IMMIGRANTS WITH A PERMANENT RESIDENCY VISA NEED TO BE CONCERNED? One of the things we’re communicating is if people have had any interaction with law enforcement to seek counsel, to see what kinds of consequences it could have.

CAN YOU OFFER ANY ADVICE ABOUT CHOOSING AN IMMIGRATION LAWYER? One of the big things we want to advise the community is to warn them about notario fraud. In many Latin American countries, notarios are attorneys. Here in the United States to become a notary public you don’t need to be an attorney. So often in communities, you see notarios publicos - somebody who can do notary services – (but) there’s often a misunderstanding in the community. They may be able to fill out documents or apply for things, which when combined with legal advice is the unauthorized practice of law. We see huge consequences of that: people applying for relief for which they may not be eligible, applications being submitted that may not be accurate. These are all things that potentially put people on the radar, potentially causing more harm than good, and in extreme cases creating permanent bars to immigration relief. One thing we deal with in the immigration services community is often trying to remedy mistakes that have been made in the past. So number one is not to go to a notario. Immigration law is extremely complex, so they want to go to an attorney who has experience and knowledge in working in this area of the law.

WHAT RIGHTS DO IMMIGRANTS WHO LACK DOCUMENTATION HAVE?

You still have rights under the Constitution. You still have the right to remain silent, the right to speak to an attorney, and the right to refuse to sign or show documents until you speak to an attorney.

You still have fourth amendment rights. If somebody comes to your home, you do not have to let them in without a warrant. Those rights change drastically when you’re on the street or in the workplace, but despite lacking citizenship, constitutional rights still attach.

If somebody has an order of removal, they may be arrested, detained and removed from the United States, meaning that representatives must work quickly. If somebody doesn’t have an order of removal, they may be arrested and detained, but they may have a right to have an administrative hearing to apply for relief from removal. The same exists for people who may be lawful permanent residents who have status here and who are being charged for being removable for some sort of offense. They have an ability to seek a hearing in front of an immigration judge. It varies.

Some people might be very quickly removed; other people might have the opportunity to have a hearing.

WOULD DEPORTATIONS ON THE SCALE TRUMP DESCRIBED EVEN BE FEASIBLE? On the government side alone, it would require a huge increase in resources. Right now there’s a huge backlog in the immigration courts. These actions would require hiring a lot more immigration judges. (The government) would need to increase ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) officers to make apprehensions, to increase customs and border protection officers for the border, also to increase ICE attorneys - the attorneys during hearings that represent the government.

It’s very early on. We hope that the new administration keeps in mind humanitarian and family concerns particularly concerning the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals young people because many have been here their whole lives. This is all they know. Many DACA youth have gone on to do amazing things. Through the ability to come out of the shadows they’ve been able to get work authorization, go to college, be amazing contributing members of society. We’ve seen DACA kids go into the military. This is their country, and this is their home. Often, removing young people in this situation to a country they haven’t been to since they were infants could be a death sentence. So we hope that the humanitarian concerns that have been huge tenets in immigration law for our country for many years will remain a consideration. We’re trying to remain very positive. But with that said, we do want people to be prepared.

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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 • 15

VOICES

VOICES

EMBODY

Where my hope is rooted By: Sossity Chiricuzio

What do we do now? This question, in at least 100 different forms, has crossed my feed and led the conversation in every gathering I’ve been to since the election. It haunts dreams, rattles composure, intersects and interrupts every single day.

This question is, of course, made up of a myriad of other questions.

How do we survive? How do we support each other? How do we push back? What do I have to give? How can I get what I need? Who has my back? Who needs my help? Where is it safe to be myself? What will become of us?

There are so much more answers than there are questions, and yet they can still be hard to find. People are feeling more isolated and unsafe; are reaching way outside their comfort zones; are struggling with the overlap of scarcity and urgency. They are coming up with great ideas, simultaneously but disconnected, so that energy spins out in a hundred tiny momentary spirals. They are finding each other and creating collaborative momentum that carries a multitude. They are trying.

This effort is where my hope is rooted.

That there are many voices naming and rejecting the bigotry and greed being presented as leadership and patriotism. That they include the voices of youth and elders and women, of queers and trans folks and people of color, of prisoners and sex workers and folks with disabilities. That privilege and discomfort are being recognized as signposts along a path that can lead to change and growth. That we want to do better.

Wanting to is the start, but it goes nowhere fast unless it is sustainable and mindful. The best of intentions might seem to lead to joining the camp at Standing Rock, but if you are non-Native and bring no resources or skills, are you really helping? If you haven’t researched the needs of the group you are trying to lift up, you could find yourself part of the weight on their shoulders. Thoughtful support, sustainable activism, and an awareness of our various levels of privilege—this is what is needed.

America is built on ideas of ego, assumptions, and pride. The glory of the individual and the hoarding of resources. Might is right. Sell the sin, hate the sinner. Laws come in different colors and are bought at high prices. These are all concepts we have to not only reject, but actively undo. Not just in the world, but in ourselves.

The world doesn’t need saviors and heroes. It needs comrades and protectors.

If you want to make a difference, take a moment to assess not only your skills and resources but your agenda and your privileges. Name them, own them, and keep them in mind when you decide to add to a conversation or project. Find a need and get involved without trying to take over, or to shine. Practice the art of being humble, and in service, from a place of love.

Love is not all we need, but it is part of it.

Hate is what they are selling, and how they arm themselves. Hate is what turns different into dangerous. Hate makes thugs out of children, terrorists out of neighbors, enemies of the state out of teachers.

Hate says wombs are more important than women, and oil is more important than water. Hate rigged the election and blusters on Twitter.

Love might save us yet if we combine it with elbow grease, and common sense, and practical application. If we can get out of our own way long enough to work together. If we can accept that none of us is right about everything, and most of us, have been sold a barrel of lies about our worth, and hierarchy, and power, and justice. If we can respect that love alone is not enough to undo racism, or classism, or sexism.

If you’re going to do work in your own community, make sure you’re addressing the issues in that community, not just applying your resources to things you call problems. If you’re white, what are you doing to unlearn racism, and combat it in your communities, workplaces, and social groups? If you’re able-bodied, how are you assessing venues, schools, and homes for accessibility? If you have more money than your daily comfort and savings needs, how are you sharing that wealth?

I’ve seen beautiful, courageous, sustainable examples in the last month—from the all ages, free, legal ID paperwork clinic that served over 200 people in one night, including fees for all in need, to the friend who has allocated a portion of her comfortable salary into covering the utility and medical needs of people in her community every month, to the group of friends who bought mace by the case for low income trans and queer folks and people of color.

Find a need, and meet it sustainably, and consistently. Take the time to search for others doing the same thing, and if it makes sense, combine your efforts and help more people with less work. If you’re creating groups or events, be sure to think about things like transportation, income, and child care. Pay attention to the space you take up, and the power you wield.

Listen. Learn. Share.

If you’re intrigued by the topics and ideas in this piece, but aren’t sure where to start, check the list below for a few ideas. Be sure to do self-care, and to reserve enough time and resources for your own needs too. We don’t need martyrs anymore than we need heroes. We need people, paying attention.

We need each other. showingupforracialjustice.org injusticeboycott.com transassistance.org nodaplsolidarity.org muslimadvocates.org adapt.org hrw.org

Sossity Chiricuzio is a writer and columnist based out of Portland, Oregon. She is a regular contributor to PQ Monthly and focuses on social justice, communication, community, and changing the world. You can reach her at sossity@pqmonthly.com or follow her online @sossitywrites.

16 • DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017

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FEATURES VOICES

I’M AS COMMITTED AS I HAVE BEEN SINCE DAY ONE

Monty Herron. Staff Writer, Op-Ed columnist, PQ Monthly

The Army Corps of Engineers will not grant an easement for the Dakota Access Pipeline, stating that a full environmental impact study must be undertaken, and alternate pipeline routes that will not endanger Lake Oahe or the Missouri river need to be examined. “Although we have had continuing discussion and exchanges of new information with the Standing Rock Sioux and Dakota Access, it’s clear that there’s more work to do,” Darcy said. “The best way to complete that work responsibly and expeditiously is to explore alternate routes for the pipeline crossing.”

Found here: https://www.army.mil/article/179095/army_ will_not_grant_easement_for_dakota_access_pipeline_ crossing There was celebration, and joy around the Sacred Fire in the Oceti Sakowin camp on hearing the announcement. I, however, withheld any joy or thoughts of victory. Those of us who have taken this fight for our Mother Earth to heart, who also know how rampant the powers of greed, corruption and avarice have consumed the opposition; knew this fight was far from over. Am I a bad person for feeling this way? No. I am a pragmatist. I am a proud Two-Spirit Native man who has paid attention to history and knows how these things play out for us. I was right not to celebrate. Not even 12 hrs after the announcement from the Corps, the following two statements were made: “As stated all along, ETP and SXL are fully committed to ensuring that this vital project is brought to completion and fully expect to complete construction of the pipeline without any additional rerouting in and around Lake Oahe. Nothing this Administration has done today changes that in any way.”

Found here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/ home/20161204005090/en/Energy-Transfer-Partners-Sunoco-Logistics-Partners-Respond U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp “It’s long past time that a decision is made on the ease-

ment going under Lake Oahe. This administration’s delay in taking action -- after I’ve pushed the White House, Army Corps, and other federal agencies for months to make a decision -- means that today’s move doesn’t actually bring finality to the project.

The pipeline remains in limbo. The incoming administration already stated its support for the project and the courts have already stated twice that it appeared the Corps followed the required process in considering the permit. For the next month and a half, nothing about this project will change. For the immediate future, the safety of residents, protesters, law enforcement, and workers remains my top priority as it should for everyone involved. As some of the protesters have become increasingly violent and unlawful, and as North Dakota’s winter has already arrived – with a blizzard raging last week through the area where protesters are located -- I’m hoping now that protesters will act responsibly to avoid endangering their health and safety, and move off of the Corps land north of the Cannonball River.”

Fo u n d h e re : h t t p : / / w w w. va l l e y n e w s l i ve. c o m / c o n t e n t / n e w s / S e n a t o r - He i t k a m p - i s sues-statement-on-DAPL-construction-being-stopped-404644315.html These people will stop at nothing with their false narratives. Violent protesters? Evidentiary videos, one after another, show there is NO PROOF to these statements. Vital project? To whom? The ONLY people this pipeline benefits are the oil oligarchists, and shareholders like Agent Orange, or He Who Must Not Be Named but rhymes with RUMP. For that matter, Agent Orange has publicly stated he’d like to force this project through, as well as revive the KeystoneXL, “to provide millions of good-paying jobs.” A false narrative.

I don’t know what fantasy world he is living in. Once a pipeline is constructed, there are about 40 maintenance tech jobs after the construction is complete. For pipelines that, on the average, have a spill every three days, that seems tantamount to complete and reckless disregard for the environment. Maybe the ‘millions of jobs’ Agent Orange is talking about are the positions that will suddenly materialize when the nightmarish hellscape of oil accidents poisons the lands and drinking water of middle Amerikkka.

As if that wasn’t enough, the icing on the cake that was today came in the form of new email evidence showing that Energy Transfer Partners may be paying the corrupt Morton County law enforcement to act as their security, in fact, Kelcey Warren even stated that they’d like to pay for the millions of dollars spent on policing the area while on a program for CBS. Loretta Lynch of the Justice Dept. stated a few days ago that federal peacekeepers are being sent to mediate in the area.

One email from the Stutsman County Sheriff’s Department, which lends their MRAP armored vehicles for use by SWAT teams, states the following: “I’ll ultimately be paid by the oil people dealing with the protests. I’m guessing when all of that is finally over and the dust settles, the oil company is going to want all the paperwork for reimbursement. I figured I should have some precise form instead of writing hours on a napkin (smiley face). Thanks.” – Tyler Falk” Find more on this here: http://thefreethoughtproject.com/uncovered-emails-oil-company-reimbursing-police-dapl-crackdown/

As for the reasoning why there are LEO’s from numerous states policing the area to aid the corrupt Morton County Sheriff, well, it’s one more abuse of law. Almost two decades ago, then President, Bill Clinton signed EMAC into law. The Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) authorized states to enter into agreements with other states to share emergency management–related personnel during crisis situations. One of the only other times this compact was deployed outside of a natural disaster was for the Black Lives Matter protests in Baltimore after the death of Freddie Gray. Found here: https://www.desmogblog. com/2016/10/27/emergency-assistance-law-dakota-access-pipeline-out-state-cops Loretta Lynch’s statement only scratches the surface of this turmoil. “We recognize the strong feelings that exist about the Dakota Access Pipeline – feelings that in many instances arise from the complicated and painful history between the federal government and American Indians.

We will remain committed to working with all stakeholders to enforce the law, to maintain the peace and to reach a just solution to this challenging situation,” Lynch said.

I have been fundraising and running around, gathering materials to build and deliver ‘riot’ shields for the peaceful Indigenous Water Protectors of Standing Rock. The first dozen have been completed. I will deliver them to Standing Rock soon. This is just another way I can help the people there. (If you would like to support my effort, #ShieldsForStandingRock, reach out to me on the book of faces, there is a PayPal account you can feel free to donate to.) The last time I visited, in September, we took medicines, wool blankets, needed food and building materials. We carried the thoughts and prayers of many of us, and for that, I am eternally humbled and grateful.

The harsh reality is that it’s really great to be an Indigenous person, but most of the time it’s tough. Environmental racism and 500 years of mistreatment of Natives in this country made the citizens of Bismarck; ND thinks it’s ok to force a toxic pipeline through areas of cultural importance to Native people instead of having it run near THEIR precious town. The infusion of MASSIVE donation dollars never materialized until a white girl got her arm blown to bits by a grenade. Right here, in Portland, OR, an established Native Veterans group, NIVA (http://www.nivavets.org/about-us.html) long a symbol of honor, posting the colors at many pow-wows and gatherings; attempted to raise a moderate sum of money to help in their travel to answer the call for veterans in Standing Rock. They raised about a third of that modest $6000 goal. In contrast, a veterans group led by Michael Wood, a non-Native veteran, with a slick video in just a few days post settler-girl trauma; raised over $835,000 of 1 million. I SINCERELY HOPE that the majority of that money ends up aiding the Oceti Sakowin camp. But I wouldn’t blink an eye if I found out not a damn dime of it is actually spent to aid them. We never ask for ‘Saviors,’ but we always seem to get them. If I learned nothing else from ‘Dances With Wolves’ or ‘The Revenant,’ I at least learned that. (You can’t see the side eye I’m giving right now, but trust me, it’s there.)

Monty Herron is a proud Two-Spirit member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and adjunct instructor of Indigenous Nations Studies at Portland State University.

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VOICES

PLAYING NICE

By Summer Season, PQ Monthly

Often growing up I always wanted everything for myself. I was a child with a brother, whom often had the only child syndrome. I couldn’t tell you why I was so obsessed with not allowing anyone else to play with my things, but if I could help it, they were kept away for myself. My brother has the scars to prove that I didn’t play well with others at the time.

As my life changed and I grew up and got older, I realized the importance of sharing with others. My parents had worked very hard to provide my brother and me with life better than theirs and even though at the time I couldn’t see it, we were very blessed.

It is because of the blessings that my parents provided me with that I became heavily involved in giving back to my community.

One of the hardest life lessons I’ve had to teach myself is how to ask for help. For me, I always felt being the oldest that I had to prove that I could do it and that I didn’t need anyone to help me with it. This is something that I still battle to this day, and I’m comfortable to say my greatest weakness.

Being involved with the Rose Court has taught me to work well with others in the best way possible. Having held titles with others, I’ve learned that you have to work together to provide yourself with a chance at being a success. It is not about the greater good of the one individual but the greater good of the team. As a team, if you can work together you can accomplish more than double what you could by your-

self. I’m thankful to have reigned with co-titleholders who helped me mold my years into being a success.

As I embark on the next journey of being Rose Empress 58, I couldn’t be more scared of anything else I’ve done before. Not because having the title scares me, but because I’m afraid of screwing up. One of the best pieces of advice I got was shortly after winning, and that was “I know you, you have to ask for help, if your year goes south because you didn’t ask for help, you have no one but yourself to blame.” Those words really stuck a cord with me because I knew they were true.

I had to let down my walls and admit that I needed help.

This past weekend I spent in Vegas for the coronation, and I was so thankful to have my friend Daniel and JenuWine with me. They walked me around the room and introduced me to EVERY reigning monarch that was there and as I sat at the table I couldn’t help but be thankful that I’d asked them for help. Sometimes my boisterous personality is shy, and I have a stage fright of sorts of going and introducing myself to strangers. This weekend helped me get past that fear, and I was welcomed with open arms into the sisterhood of Empresses of this year.

As I embark on this next year, I’m ready to share the knowledge I’ve learned with everyone I meet and to take the knowledge that they are willing to teach me. I’m excited to do it all with a positive attitude because to me that’s the only kind of attitude to have.

And I’m ready to share that experience with an Emperor who’s not only funny and talented, but kind hearted and welcomed to so many people in the community.

When you look back on your life, you have the opportunity to say you focused on the good, or you can say you focused on the bad. For me, I choose the good. You know why? Because nothing ever comes of those Facebook rants, nothing ever good comes from being mean to people, and nothing ever comes from saying hateful things behind someone’s back. You have the choice to make it a good life, and I can’t wait to lead by example. I’m not perfect, but for me, I know that being positive has taken me pretty far. Be kind to one another, and spread the love. Playing nice is so much better than playing alone.

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WHY WE MARCH COMMUNITY

IF YOU’RE NOT OUTRAGED, YOU’RE NOT PAYING ATTENTION when groups of people sharing a common social and political interest come together during tumultuous times, the negative energy carried with them are transformed into a positive and productive energy.

In the aftermath of the presidential election, many Americans are experiencing extreme anger, deep sorrow and sense of helplessness. The idea that a person like Donald Trump, who has no political experience and is known for his racist, sexist, xenophobic and homophobic rhetoric has been elected as the leader of our country is abhorrent. On top of that, we’re expected to stomach knowing the most qualified candidate in modern history who received over 2 million more popular votes will not be president. It is outrageous. Luckily, one of the great freedoms in our country is our first amendment right to free speech and assembly. So we take to the streets with our outrage and anger to unite and attempt to find direction in such a volatile and politically divisive time.

But does marching and protesting matter? And does the result actually change anything? With the ongoing antiTrump protests across the nation and the upcoming Million Woman March planned in Washington DC January 21, 2017, my answer is simply and unequivocally – yes.

First and foremost when any group of people feels alienated, discriminated against and abused by the powers that be, coming together to find solidarity and security are of utmost importance. To be reminded you are not alone and share a common cause with others in paramount. Assembling in protest provides that space. More often than not,

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Protesting also lends itself to finding a common voice and allows a space for that voice to be heard. Even if the only people to hear your protests are others with similar perspectives, there is great solace to be found solely in that. But a protesters voice is rarely only heard by other protesters. Protesting in large numbers is a way of demonstrating power.

Bystanders, police, media and yes, the political “powers that be” all hear the collective voice. If enough people protest and march, it sends a clear message for opponents to watch with trepidation. There are strength and power in numbers. No matter how peaceful marches are, there is an underlying message – we outnumber you and will be heard.

Protesting just to protest does not necessarily bring about ongoing measurable change. But it can be spring board and provide opportunities for petitions, changing laws and joining new organizations. Ideas are born and exchanged, new ways to overcome adversity immerge and clear, concrete ways of producing change are cultivated.

For example: Over 250,000 people attended the 1963 March on Washington where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Not only were the thousands in attendance inspired but it created pressure and momentum which eventually led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Years and years of protesting and marching for the Women’s Suffrage Movement directly changed our constitution by eventually giving women the right to vote in 1920.

Following the brutal murder of Matthew Shepard in 1998, the Matthew Shepard Foundation was formed, and thousands of protesters took to the streets, directly result-

ing in the expansion of the US Federal Hate Crime Law to include gender, sexual orientation, gender identity.

These are just a sampling of protests and marches throughout the years where huge strides in social justice have resulted from people standing together in solidarity.

If we as people do not march in protest of clear social and political injustices, we are showing by example, or lack example, our acceptance. We accept it when women’s rights are infringed upon. We accept it when racist comments and profiling occurs. We accept it that the rights the LGBTQ community fought so hard for might be revoked. We accept that it’s alright to deport lawfully abiding immigrants.

We were all taught growing up that America was this great melting pot. And this melting pot represents diversity, tolerance, acceptance, freedom and equality for all. I’m sure we’re all well aware that these are lofty principles and more often than not, we continue to struggle as a people to attain and maintain these ideals. Although far from perfect, the majority of Americans still strive to embrace the idea of equality and freedom for all.

Protesting is the first step in standing up to those who want to “Make America Great” or rather “Make America White, Straight and able-bodied.” No one ever said freedom and equality would be easy to acquire. Our foremothers and forefathers knew this and didn’t sit back and rest on their laurels waiting to see if someone would kindly pass the bowl of freedom and equal rights. It is up to everyday people like you and me to protest, make our voices heard and fight for the America we want future generations to inherit.

On January 21 not only will there be a Million Woman March in Washington DC but also in many other cities across the nation. These marches will send a loud and clear message to Trump and his cronies – you will not be our president. We will not listen to your hate. And as your continue to try and destroy this countries greatest strength – its overwhelming passionate desire for diversity and freedom for all Americans – we will stop you. One protest at a time. We will stop you.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 • 19

HEALTH

CHILDHOOD TRAUMA EFFECTS OFTEN PERSIST INTO 50S & BEYOND tial,” according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

ONE MORE THING: THOSE TRAUMATIZED AS CHILDREN DIE EARLIER. From 1995 to 1997, the California-based health maintenance organization Kaiser Permanente conducted a survey of more than 17,000 of its patients.

The Adverse Childhood Experiences or ACE study asked respondents to indicate whether they had suffered any of the following during their childhood:

PHOTO: CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE VICTIM JIM MCDONOUGH, ABOVE, DESCRIBES HIS PATH DIFFICULT PATH IN A VIDEO INTERVIEW BY REPORTER EMILY GURNON.

Emily Gurnon , PBS Next Avenue/New America Media

ST. PAUL, Minn.--The responses to an open-ended online survey question were heart-wrenching.

“Those five years ruined everything. My self-identity is sad, melancholic, shy, retiring and angry… never content or at peace.”

“It has hampered me all my working life.”

“Problems with relationships with the opposite sex my whole life made me think something was wrong with me.”

“I will never know the person I could have become….”

Those comments were made by adult men who had experienced sexual abuse at the hands of clergy, particularly priests, when they were children. Collected as part of a 2010 survey, they illustrate the insidious harm that can follow individuals throughout their lives when they are badly hurt — physically or emotionally — as children.

LASTING SCARS OF CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE Childhood sexual abuse is just one type of early trauma that can affect one’s life for decades — even into middle age and beyond. Research has shown that childhood trauma, ranging from parents’ divorce to alcoholism in the home, increases the odds of heart disease, stroke, depression, suicide, diabetes, lung diseases, alcoholism and liver disease later in life. It also increases risky health behaviors like smoking and having a large number of sexual partners. And it contributes to “low life poten-

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• • • • • • • •

Emotional abuse Physical abuse Sexual abuse Mother treated violently Household substance abuse Mental illness in household Parental separation or divorce Household member in prison

A portion of the respondents were also asked about emotional and physical neglect. The most common experience reported was physical abuse (28 percent), followed by household substance abuse (nearly 27 percent).

The more Adverse Childhood Experiences a person reported, the higher the risk of experiencing poor psychological and physical health later.

A 2010 update found similar results.

PARALYZED WITH SHAME Jim McDonough, 61, was a happy, inquisitive kid who earned excellent grades and loved the outdoors. A lifelong resident of St. Paul, Minn., he joined the Boy Scouts when he was 12, attracted by the prospect of frequent camping adventures.

But those camping trips soon became terrifying. The scoutmaster, on the pretense of separating a boisterous group, brought McDonough into his tent with him. He then sexually abused him. McDonough “froze,” he said. It happened repeatedly for four years. (See the video.)

Besides a brief mention to his wife years later, McDonough told no one.

“There’s a lot of shame with that,” McDonough said in an interview. “[I thought] no one will understand this. The shame always comes back to, ‘Was it my fault?’”

A SECRET UNTIL AGE 60 Not long after the abuse started, McDonough began sneaking alcohol from his father’s liquor cabinet. He used drugs and booze for years to “kill the pain.” He married his high school sweetheart, but she could not put up with his drinking and the unpredictable bouts of rage.

After she left and they divorced, McDonough cleaned up his act. He went through chemical abuse treatment and the couple remarried.

Ramsey County Board of Commissioners, knew he still had not dealt with the deep wound of the sexual abuse.

“It takes a lot to come to terms with this,” he said. “I worked really hard on myself to be a better person, to really understand who I was.”

On his 60th birthday, McDonough held a press conference: He had filed a personal injury lawsuit against the Boy Scouts of America and the local Boy Scouts council. (A Minnesota law temporarily lifted the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse cases.) Coming forward was “putting the shame where it belonged,” he said.

Indeed, the ACE data found that childhood sexual abuse was reported by just 16 percent of males and 25 percent of females. Underreporting of such abuse is common.

TRAUMA HARD TO DIVULGE Adults ages 50 and older are far less likely than younger people to reveal a childhood trauma of any kind, said Michael Barnes, clinical program manager at CeDAR, the Center for Dependency, Addiction, and Rehabilitation, at the University of Colorado Hospital in Aurora, Colo.

“I think some of that is generational and the view of counseling,” he said, “and there’s a significant difference between men and women.” Women are more likely to tell others. Men are socialized to be stoic and not complain, Barnes said.

He estimated that 30-to-90 percent of the patients seen at his addiction program on any given day had some sort of childhood trauma.

Scott Easton of the Boston College School of Social Work has studied how childhood sexual abuse affects men in later life. In one study, which received a federal National Institute on Aging grant, the men who were sexually abused as kids waited an average of 21 years before they told a single person about the abuse. It took them 28 years to give a fuller CHILHOOD TRAUMA page 21

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CHILHOOD TRAUMA

survivors is the need for control, Barnes said.

Continued from page 20

“Control can look one of two different ways: ‘I’m going to control everyone and everything around me, so I can feel safe,’ or ‘I’m going to withdraw from everything and control by not participating,’” Barnes said.

“So for a lot of older folks, they are underemployed [or] they may work in very independent kinds of work.”

account to someone else.

“The longer they waited, the worse their mental health,” Easton said.

EMOTIONAL EFFECTS IN LATER LIFE Children don’t know how to process a traumatic event or environment, experts say. Those who suffer childhood abuse or trauma often grow to distrust others, having been betrayed by the very adults who were supposed to teach, nurture and protect them, according to the Australian abuse support group Blue Knot Foundation.

A study of more than 21,000 child abuse survivors age 60 or older in Australia found they reported a greater rate of failed marriages and relationships. Abuse survivors were more likely to rate themselves “not happy at all” or “not very happy.” They attempted suicide at a rate four to five times higher than those who had not been abused.

Others with a history of child trauma may later experience problems such as these, according to experts: • Anxiety • Sadness and depression • Hypervigilance • Drug or alcohol abuse • Addiction to gambling or shopping • Feelings of alienation • Feelings of hopelessness • Low self-esteem • Adult relationships with abusers Another common trait among trauma

HEALING IS POSSIBLE It’s important to remember that not even adults are good at dealing with the powerlessness of traumatic events, much less children, Barnes said.

But there are a number of therapies and tools that can help trauma survivors. Barnes has seen great strides in mindful meditation as a later-life treatment for early trauma.

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy may also help, he said.

Coping strategies also include taking good care of your health, seeking joyful activities and learning a new physical skill, Blue Knot Foundation says. The group also recommends learning distress tolerance (or how to soothe oneself) and arousal-reduction tools (taming anxiety and anger).

This self-help guide from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers additional suggestions for dealing with trauma.

before anything else, we’re all human rethink your bias at lovehasnolabels.com

love has no labels

Emily Gurnon, Health & Caregiving Editor at PBS’s Next Avenue website, wrote and produced this story with the support of a journalism fellowship from New America Media, the Gerontological Society of America and the Commonwealth Fund.

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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016/2017 • 21

FEATURE

BOOKS

JAKE BIONDI REVEALS COVER OF SIXTH BOYSTOWN BOOK ‘BOYSTOWN Season Six’ release date is December 16 BOYSTOWN series author Jake Biondi has revealed the cover of the highly-anticipated sixth book of his BOYSTOWN series.

BOYSTOWN Season Six will be released on December 16, 2016. The cover for the book, which was designed by photographer James Franklin, features BOYSTOWN model Sean Zevran as well as six other ‘BOYSTOWN boys”: JR Bronson, Pablo Hernandez, Eddie Eduardo, Cory Zwierzynski, Jo Franco, and Andy Andranik.

“The BOYSTOWN series adds life to a genre of literature that has been waning over the last few years,” said Sean Zevran. “I see the potential for much more to come and I’m honored to be one of the faces of the series. Jake Biondi, myself, and the rest of the BOYSTOWN team have developed a phenomenal partnership and are planning to go very far with it!”

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“BOYSTOWN is a must-read series filled with twists and turns that everyone will love,” said BOYSTOWN model Cory Zwierzynski, who is featured on the new book cover. “I was so grateful when Jake Biondi asked me to join the BOYSTOWN team. As one of the original BOYSTOWN team members, I have watched the BOYSTOWN audience grow with the release of each installment of the series.” About Biondi, Zwierzynski said, “Working with Jake has been awesome. Over the past four years, we have gotten to know each other well and have become good friends. He knows how to tell a great story and keep the audience engaged from the very first page of each book. I am grateful to be one of the faces of BOYSTOWN.” “The wait is nearly over,” Biondi told fans of his ‘BOYSTOWN’ book series. “Due to the amazing success of the first five books in the series, fans from all over the world have been asking me when the sixth book will be released. They want to know what’s coming next for their favorite characters and couples. Their questions are about to be answered.”

Biondi added, “I am so grateful for my readers and their positive response to the series. The broad appeal of the book series is incredible. ‘BOYSTOWN’ has a really diverse audience.”

Biondi promises that readers won’t be disappointed. “’Season Six’ picks up right

where book five left off and includes the deaths of some major characters. While I won’t reveal who lives or who dies, I will say this: lives and relationships will be forever changed.” Biondi also previews that ‘BOYSTOWN Season Six’ continues the storylines from the first five books while introducing new ones -- and some hot new characters, too.

The ‘BOYSTOWN’ series has a fascinating history. It began as an online story released in installments, each ending with a cliffhanger that left readers wondering what would happen to their favorite characters. Enthusiastic ‘BOYSTOWN’ fans from all over the world petitioned Biondi to release the installments more quickly; they simply couldn’t wait to find out what happened next. Overwhelmed by and grateful for the fans’ responses to the series, Biondi began to write more quickly.

In 2013, Biondi published the first ten ‘episodes’ in book form as ‘BOYSTOWN Season One.’ ‘BOYSTOWN Season Two’ was released in July of 2014; ‘BOYSTOWN Season Three’ was released in May of 2015; ‘BOYSTOWN Season Four’ was released on November 13, 2015; and ‘BOYSTOWN Season Five’ was released on June 1, 2016.

Now, ‘BOYSTOWN Season Six’ answers readers’ questions and, of course, provides even more twists and turns for fans.

Like the first five books, ‘BOYSTOWN Season Six’ will be available at bookstores across the country as well at online at amazon.com, bn.com, and iTunes. The series is available in paperback, audiobook, and all e-book formats. Readers may order autographed paperback copies of the books directly from BoystownTheSeries. com. ‘Season Six’ is currently available for pre-order on Kindle and iTunes.

Biondi is currently working with television producers Gabe Fiscale and Weston Mueller, who are interested in bringing the ‘BOYSTOWN’ series to television. Biondi remains optimistic that fans all over the world will soon be able to watch their favorite ‘BOYSTOWN’ characters in action on television.

For additional information or to schedule an interview with author Jake Biondi, please send an email to BoystownTheSeries@yahoo. com. Mr. Biondi may also be contacted via JakeBiondi.com, BoystownTheSeries.com, Twitter (@boystown_series), and Instagram (@boystowntheseries). pqmonthly.com

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