PQ Monthly June/July 2016 PRIDE Edition

PRIDE

2016

PORTLAND

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PORTLAND LESBIAN CHOIR STILL SINGING LOUD & PROUD!

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PLANNED PARENTHOOD STANDS WITH LGBTQ PEOPLE

PHOTO BY: DAX MCMILLAN

DIRTY RIVER, A QUEER FEMME OF COLOR DREAMING HER WAY HOME, PART 2

#DECOLONIZEPRIDE PQMONTHLY.COM

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Next up July 21st at: • June 21st, 2016, 5P.M.-7 P.M. : CRUSH ( 1400 SE Morrison St, Portland, OR 97214 ) Like us on Facebook for details on the press parties & all things PQ Monthly!

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PQ TEAM

OPEN LETTER TO DONALD TRUMP

Melanie Davis

Owner/Publisher melanie@pqmonthly.com

chris Àlvarez

Art Director chris@pqmonthly.com

editorial Matt Pizzuti

Reporter & Calendar Editor calendar@pqmonthly.com

OLIVIA OLIVIA

Brilliant Media Correspondent

monthy herron

Brilliant Media Correspondent

Shaley Howard Regular Contributor

TJAcena

Arts & Entertainment

George Nicola GLAPN Historian

RobinWill

GLAPN Historian

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 Photographer

Nestor Miranda Photographer

Columnists &contributors

Sossity Chiricuzio, Samantha L. Taylor, Michael James Schneider, Leo Bancroft, Summer Seasons, Marco Davis, Kathryn Martini, Sally Mulligan, Katey Pants, Queer Intersections

6-7-2016 Mr. Trump, My name in Melanie Davis. I am the Owner of Brilliant Media llc., the parent company that publishes El Hispanic News (the Nations #1 bilingual publication for 7 consecutive years according to, to the National Association of Hispanic Publications) and PQ Monthly, currently serving Oregon and SW Washington’s LGBTQ communities, with rapid expansion happening in the Bay Area and Seattle, WA. In addition we publish Tankside, a mainstream motorcycle publication serving both Oregon and Washington.

Now, I bring this up not to sell you advertisement. Rather, I am publicly writing today, to, thank you. I feel compelled. You have helped me better understand myself, my love, my commitment to my God, and my power. I am now in a place of unconditional love, and I am grateful for that.

I am grateful for both my parents who married young and despite all odd stayed married until my father passed a month before their 35th Wedding Anniversary. I am grateful for my entire family of Los Padillas, New Mexico, who initially settled in the Southwest around 1609. It is the creed of the Padilla roots that breathes in our family’s souls. In that, we are ‘a family of extended family.’ As you know, New Mexico and Arizona joined the Union in 1912 – What you don’t know is that was one year after the birth of my great grandmother Susana Padilla (born 1911). She was the matriarch of our city. My great grand-

mother Susana Padilla, who was widowed in her sixties, never remarried, and so loyal to her husband (Mr. Julian Padilla Sr.) that she insisted we cremate her and bury her ashes at the feet of her husband’s grave when she passed in her late 80’s.

I share this with you to demonstrate that our love, commitment, and faith in and for our family and spirituality is not a weakness it is our POWER! As the first great grandchild, I would stay with my great-grandmother every Saturday night, and before going to bed, we would say our prayers.

She would take the time to include the names of her 10 children, their kids, their kid’s kids, and even do her version of the US Census. As she would pray for her family both blood and chosen, she would list off what countries they are from, or where their bloodlines originated. It filled her heart with joy to have every letter and color represented among her children. We would pray for the strength and safety of our people and communities. We would pray that the world would produce enough food to feed the starving, we would pray the world would heal.

I now realize we should have included people like you and your “Christ-like believers” in our prayers. Individuals who have lost their way to God, their savior, their higher power, their higher self. We should have been praying for you and people like you all along.

You see Mr. Trump, you have blessed the world by exposing us to the faces of the unloved, and those families who have lost their values, faces of people who have lost their humanity by letting your mortal FEAR and HATE guide them. The manipulated sound bites, and images of your delusions assaulting our eyeballs, tells the real story.

In fact, you have single handedly displayed to the world the sickest, saddest, and unloved, and unloving people on our earth! You, Mr. Trump, have shown the world the faces of the faithless, the godless, you have made a spectacle of their existence, shamed them, and encouraged them to do what most consider wicked and violent behavior. Mr. Trump, you have shown us quite possibly the greatest victims of our forefather’s vocation and Mr. Trump, the cameras are ALL pointing at you and your “Christ-like believers”.

This year marks our 35th Anniversary at El Hispanic News and as a community advocacy publication, we have been trying to win the hearts of people like you and your “Christ-like believers” for eons by showing you the faces of our faith and sharing with guys like you, our love.

We share our stories about our mothers, how we honor because we are so close to the sacrifices

they have made on our behalf. The stories of our fathers and their strength. Strong enough to build your ivory towers and stand equally as tall with their children through all of life’s transitions. We have shared the stories of our youth, whose courage to work day and night, while going to school and help their family is greater than the faces we see at your rallies, with their bellies full of hate and vomiting violence. I pray you remember nothing is higher than the unconditional love of one’s self and family. I know from experience.

So thank you, Mr. Trump, the gift you have bestowed upon the world is not that of your un-Godly rhetoric. Rather you have shown to the world, the people we never want to be!

We have shared the stories of our love, struggle, pride, injustice, pain, and celebration so you could see our light, hoping that one day you and people like you would WAKE UP! Much like the Pride Celebrations taking place this month worldwide we know Pride does in fact begin with one’s self love!

Thankfully over the years, the overwhelming majority have been waking up, and love is winning. To those who have not; we see you all over our media, and welcome you back into the fold. It’s time to forgive and heal. We have been doing the work of all humanity to save yours.

NOW, it’s time you and your believers to do your job for humankind. Mr. Trump, it is time to humble yourself, surrendering yourself to your God because we know you are powerless. Time to get off the camera and on your knees, Mr. Trump, start making amends with your God for God is the one you and your “Christ-like believers” should fear according to your Bible. Not us, the ones with love guiding our hearts and actions.

We have no fear because humans like you have tried for thousands of years to destroy and conquer LOVE. Billions of people have been calculatedly eliminated and murdered in cold blood due to corporate war, leaving evil as the only true benefactor. Yes sir, I would say its time to shut the cameras off and get to praying.

In closing, Mr. Trump, I personally and professionally have every reason to hate you and your so-called followers/“Christ-like believers”, however, in the name of my family I personally thank you, because of you we and the rest of the world now know who to pray for…and may God have mercy on you on your “Christ-like believers.”

I am praying for you and your eternal souls…

Sincerely, Melanie Davis Owner Brilliant Media llc.

P.S. Blessings Sister Melania #Unity

A SMATTERING OF WHAT YOU’LL FIND INSIDE:

503.228.3139

#DecolonizePride.........................................................Page 4

EMBODY...................................................................... Page 17

proudqueer.com

Levi’s Launches First Global Pride Collection........... Page 9

Dirty River, A Queer Femme of Color Dreaming Her Way Home,

Our Tribe - Your Warriors ............................................ Page 10

Part Two....................................................................... Page 22

Economic Reset…Part One..........................................Page 11

Finding Leo................................................................. Page 25

THE NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE OF PQ MONTHLY IS RIVENDELL MEDIA, INC. BRILLIANT MEDIA LLC, DBA EL HISPANIC NEWS & PQ MONTHLY.

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STILL SINGING LOUD AND PROUD!............................. Page 12 PRIDE Events Calendar................................................ Page 13

AND MUCH MORE! JUNE/JULY 2016 • 3

#DECOLONIZEPRIDE FEATURE

By Monty Herron, PQ Monthly

This month it is my distinct pleasure to let you know about a history-making move by Pride NW; a move that signals a real commitment to diversity and inclusiveness for Portland Pride. This year, it was announced, that the Portland Two Spirit Society will be the Grand Marshals for the 2016 Pride Parade. PTSS will be blessing the parade route, and be visible near the head of the parade; to symbolically reclaim and recognize the people indigenous to this land, as well as claim our place in the community, as an act of survivance.

This was an involved process, the majority of the foundational groundwork for this was laid by Executive Director, and blessed a friend, Candice Brings Plenty. I asked Candice to tell the story of how our request came to fruition.

Candice: “The Portland Two Spirit Society was initiated in 2010 with a handful of members and since has expanded exponentially with many talented members and fierce leaders. It began as a community group of Two Spirit identified folks residing in Portland and from surrounding rural areas.

They represent numerous tribes from across the nation as well as International Indigenous Nations. The intent for the Portland Two Spirit Society was to create a local social community group as Two Spirit identified people to find a community that bridged their queer and cultural identity. It has now expanded to nationally recognized Two Spirit Society that is advocating on many platforms and currently to “#DecolonizePride.”

“Two Spirit” is an umbrella term that was coined in the early 1990s by Indigenous people and encompasses gender, sexuality and a connection to indigenous cultures and defines the visibility of multiple genders. The term brings an indigenous lens that promotes and bring awareness in a context that sexuality can be fluid while acknowledging that tribal nations have their own culture, language, and traditions regarding the LGBTQI people.

Over the decades, the evolving identities and awareness within the mainstream culture have also impacted a need to make space and incorporate the numerous ethnic concepts and equitable representation of the LGBTQI rainbow spectrum. Within tribal infrastructures, there is a sacred circle that includes every identity and spiritual being. This concept is a foundation of community collaboration and embracing our queer communities as “family.” From this traditional value, the Two Spirit Societies across the nation have impacted their communities and made an intentional

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effort to reclaim their place in the sacred circle as there has always been a place of stature for Two-Spirited individuals. It was upon western colonization that our traditional infrastructures were altered, shamed and tortured into suppressing the beauty of traditional Two-Spirit roles in each of our Indigenous cultures. Two Spirit is not just an identity, it is a movement to amend that sacred circle and decolonize a stigma within the non-Native mainstream communities as well as within our own Indigenous nations.

The Portland Two Spirit Society upon fierce advocacy and leadership has pursued to reclaim their traditional role in reinvigorating the protocol of blessing the grounds for Portland’s Pride Northwest’s festivities and Pride Parade. They will also be hosting a “Coming Out Blessing” at the Delta Park Powwow for those spirits who did not receive a blessing when they began living their authentic selves.

Before the devastating impacts of colonization and the loss of traditional honoring’s, there was once intentional blessings, songs, prayers and honoring’s for those sacred beings who embraced both their masculine and feminine attributes as well as third genders. After an impactful testimony of why P2SS should be offered the opportunity to decolonize pride, the board of directors unanimously voted to uplift and take part in providing a space to revitalize the Two-Spirit movement and honor the Portland Two Spirit Society as grand marshal for the Pride Parade.”

(A full schedule of the events that Portland Two Spirit Society will be involved in during Pride can be found at the end of this article).

I also sought out interviews with James Waldner, President of Pride NW, and Andrew Loriego, Board member for Pride NW. What do you want the people to know about why Pride NW chose us/PTSS as the Grand Marshals this year?

James: “Part of the advocacy work by Pride Northwest is to represent and celebrate traditionally marginalized communities. Indigenous people rank high on those lists so we were thrilled when presented with the opportunity partner with P2SS. We hope that by featuring the Portland Two Spirit Society as Grand Marshal, we can provide visibility to local native LGBTQ communities.”

Andrew: “Pride Northwest has chosen the Portland Two Spirit Society as our Grand Marshals because it’s simply the right thing to do. We are after all marching and celebrating on indigenous lands. I am so thankful to finally see this representation in our LGBT community- It’s been a very long

time overdue, and I am thrilled to see the excitement and enthusiasm that it’s generating even on a national level.”

What were the initial thoughts and feelings of the board on our request? Why is this a good fit for your organization?

James: “There was genuinely a deep sense of honor by the request to bless the Parade route. This is a first-in –the nation happening and we are thrilled to be a part of it. We hope that this is the beginning of a long relationship with the Portland Two Spirit Society and a greater sense of inclusion in the broader local LGBTQ community.”

Andrew: “I’m from the desert southwest, and this feels like a little bit of home to me. I’ve always enjoyed Pride, I look forward to it every year and this year is even more special to me. I’m not a religious person, but I feel that the P2SS blessing of our Parade and Festival transcends religious beliefs. It’s a spiritual wealth that we are all fortunate to be a part of. It’s raised questions, created community, generated a stir that has been silent for too long. Yes, the Portland Two Spirit Society is a perfect fit for our organization and my heart is overflowing with joy that I am witnessing this in my lifetime.”

Anything else our readers should know?

James: “To keep up-to-date, check us out at www.pridenw.org or facebook.com/pdxpride”.

Andrew: “Be visible, get involved, remember our LGBT heritage, and know that Pride Begins With You! Volunteer today and keep up to date with Pride Northwest at PrideNW.Org Also- Thank you, Monty and Candi, so much for your dedication and hard work on this effort.”

The Portland Two Spirit Society will have a tipi to table at the Pride Festival concourse throughout the event.

Saturday: Noon/12pm Pride NW festivities Opening Blessing at Tom McCall Waterfront 5:30-6:30 pm: Coming Out Honoring Ceremony at Delta Park PowWow Introduction of the Portland Two Spirit Society and “Coming Out” intent Community offering Spiritual leader introduction Honor song and announcing of names Sunday: 10:50am-11am Portland Pride Parade Prayer, Honor Song and Blessing for the Portland Pride Parade, Pride march to immediately follow.

Monty Herron is a staff writer for PQ Monthly, Graduate student at Portland State University, author, a member of the Portland Two-Spirit Society, and a member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde.

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

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FEATURE VOICES

NEWS GLAPN FEATURE

LEVI’S LAUNCHES FIRST GLOBAL PRIDE COLLECTION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE HARVEY MILK FOUNDATION

By Ian Maloney, Hotspots Magazine of Florida for The Nation Equality Publishers Association

When you think of “gay clothes,” Levi’s may not be the first brand that you think about. However, the international clothing powerhouse is about to change all that this summer. Everyone has that one pair of jeans that make your butt look amazing, and a tight pair of 501’s just might do the trick. From jean shorts, T-shirts, a collector’s jacket, and collectable patches, Levis is putting their money where their mouth is and coming out for equality in a big way.

Next week, the company that literally invented blue jeans will launch their first ever Pride Collection, The Levi’s x Harvey Milk Foundation collection, and they are partnering up with the Harvey Milk Foundation to help give back to the community that Milk represented and ensure his legacy lives on. Levi’s is a long-standing ally to the GLBT community, and they will commemorate the election and legacy of Milk, a gay rights hero who was assassinated in San Francisco City Hall along with Mayor George Moscone in 1978.

Harvey Milk’s election was a crucial moment in the fight for equality as he was one of the first GLBT persons elected to office (and certainly the most visible) at the time. Though Harvey Milk only served less than a year in office before his tragic assassination, his legacy is still alive in the city pqmonthly.com

of San Francisco and across the world. His courage, passion, and sense of justice rocked a country and supported many communities of minorities, bringing forward a new hope and vision of freedom.

The Pride collection will feature a range of gender-neutral products, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Harvey Milk Foundation, which was founded to empower local, regional, national, and global organizations so that they may fully realize the power of Harvey Milk’s story, style, and collaborative relationship building.

“As a brand that values authentic self-expression, there is no individual we want to honor more than Harvey Milk. Harvey was a real leader, whose passion was palpable and has expanded the decades since his untimely assassination. He brought not only the LGBTQ community forward, but he fought for the visibility of all minorities. We at Levi’s are honored to have the opportunity to express his legend through not only our product but our voice as a global brand leader and advocate for equal human rights,” said Grant Barth, chief merchandising officer for Levi’s.

Stuart Milk, Harvey’s nephew and founder and president of the Harvey Milk Foundation had high praise for Levi’s.

He said, “We are inspired by Levi’s global commitment to progress and to meeting the challenges of the 21st century through the celebration of human diversity from the Levi’s board room to Levi’s branded apparel. Uncle Harvey was

proud to wear his Levi’s for their unmatched fit and finish, and today he would be even prouder to see his name partnered with a true champion of corporate leadership and inclusion. Companies like Levi’s understand that non-discrimination is an essential value that is good for business, not just at home, but all across the globe. Having spent years providing on-the-ground support at Pride events across the world, I say, with certainty, that this incredible clothing line created by Levi’s will inspire all and provide hope to those still yearning to be recognized in a globalized world. It is a simple message, marked by dignity and respect, that we embrace all without exception, and keep alive Uncle Harvey’s promise of equality for all people, everywhere.”

The Pride Collection includes: Harvey Milk Ringer Tee: Celebrates Harvey Milk by featuring a Harvey Milk graphic on the front and the GLBT timeline on the back of the tee. This shirt is also available as a tank, and all sizing is gender neutral.

Pride Tee: Leveraging the rainbow batwing, Levi’s offers an everyday option to showcase pride on a heather grey T-shirt.

Pride Trucker Jacket: The Pride Trucker was created to be a collector’s piece that allows the owner to add collectible patches each year to customize their jacket.

The Trucker comes already patched with pride related patches as well as a rainbow L-tab. Harvey Milk Graphic featured on the back. The Pride Trucker Jacket is available for a limited run and features a slim body with sizes from XS-XXL. HARVEY MILK page 11

JUNE/JULY 2016 • 9

NEWS FEATURE

OUR TRIBE - YOUR WARRIORS By now you have either already been to, or read about Stag PDX - dubbed Portland’s premier gay gentlemen’s lounge and bar. We know our #ProudQueer team has enjoyed “covering” all the happenings since its inception April of 2015. Hosting an army of events that not only support the LGBTQ community but also help the many intersections of our communities. Stag PDX Business Owners Jerrick Hope-Lang originally from Alaska, and Abner Romero, a former dancer from Puerto Rico, saw something missing in Portland’s gay scene and envisioned a better place for dancers to perform and patrons to enjoy fine Oregon spirits and microbrews. Hope-Lang said of the club’s origins: “I love the idea of other gay male clubs, but I didn’t like the atmosphere. I wanted to create a space where I would like to hang out, a real gentleman’s club. I talked with a couple of dancers from another establishment, and the idea came about very organically.”

PQ Monthly invited our readers to celebrate Stag’s One Year Anniversary on April 30, 2016, which was a wild success without question – But that’s only skin deep. As follow-up PQ Monthly met with Jerrick Hope-Lang one of the owners of Stag PDX, this time, to go deeper and learn what drove his warrior spirit down the road of recovery from The House on the Point of the Kiks.ádi tribe Alaska, to Portland, Oregon.

Dancer/co-founder Kam, Co-Owners Abner Romero, and Jerrick Hope-Lang. Jerrick is dressed in a handmade replica of his grandmother’s Beaded Headband, which represents the four seasons, her Nobility Robe made by tribal artist

the Fort. The Sitka Kiks.ádi Survival March Story is a story of Tlingit courage, bravery, dedication, loyalty, honor, and endurance in defense of the Kiks.ádi homeland and can be read on our website.

MORE THAN MY SEXUALITY Although, Jerrick, his sexy team of dancers and staff present as the sex-charged Stags of the night rearing for fun at this popular gay gentlemen’s club. There’s more. In talking with some of Stag’s team, there is an overall sense of family. One dancer said if there was a cause or something they believe in, the Stag Tribe is always there. “This is our tribe, and we are your warriors!” Said co-owner Abner Romero.

Jerrick shared with us that according to his grandmother our sexuality is just one small part of our multidimensional being and that it is perfectly ok to be and show 100% of our real selves. Now as a sober individual who dances in the ring of fire Jerrick feels he is ready to do that for himself and the communities he represents.

STEPPING INTO THE ROBE

A HUMBLE NOBLE L’ doo-teen or Jerrick Hope-Lang, is Tlingit of the Raven moiety, Kiks.ádi Clan and of the Point House Hailing from Aboriginal Nobility, L’ doo-teen (meaning: frog you can’t see/frog one can’t see in the grass) or Jerrick Hope-Lang is humble when asked about is family. Calling himself the “black sheep” he recognizes that his youth was not easy, nor was he easy on his family. “I was raised next door to my grandma,” Jerrick shared with pride.

Ellen Hope Hays, Jerrick’s grandmother was born L’ doo-teen or Jerrick Hope-Lang (L), Kaa Katlin or Ellen Hope Hays from the Tlingit of the on December 29, 1927, and passed October 8th, 2013.

Raven moiety, Kiks.ádi Clan and of the Point House.

She was a Tlingit of the Raven moiety, Kiks.ádi Clan and of the Point House, and a clan mother. Her clan name Shgen George and Abalone erring’s that were was Kaa Katlin (Raven Looking Forward) and among her Jerrick’s grandmothers. A Noble Robe is much many accolades, Ellen made history when she was the first longer in the front and on this Robe it has a frog on each woman and Alaskan Native to be named superintendent side called Kiks.ádi which means nobility. The Kiks.ádi Tribe has six houses: The Point House, Clay House, Strong of Sitka National Historical Park.

On this month’s PQ cover, you see back right to left: Stag House, Herring House, Steel House, and the House inside

“It was cathartic.” Jerrick describes, “Her death validated my life. I can feel her energy all around me. I know she is present in my life. I would say thank you, for laying the foundation to being a person of substance, and reminding me to be proud of myself, in all aspects of my life. And, I miss you. Sometimes I’m lucky that breathing is an automatic function.

Because sometimes I’m not sure how I do it without you.”

Stag PDX is more than a local, gay (Native American and Latino)-owned business which has been made possible by the work of many in the community, from the designer to metal and leather craftsmen. Featuring era-appropriate decor, exposed brick, and leather furnishings, and a fantastic collection of art from the Kiks.ádi tribe. For more information, please go to their website www.stagpdx.com.

PHOTO BY: DAX MCMILLAN

By Melanie Davis, PQ Monthly

GunalchÈesh, Ax eet ilatÛowu - Thank you for teaching me.

FEATURE

How much wood would a woodchuck chuck? salvageworkspdx.com 2024 N. Argyle Street, Portland, OR 97217 • 503-899-0052 10 • JUNE/JULY 2016

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FEATURE

ECONOMIC RESET…PART ONE

Truth or Dare

By Suzanne Deakins

In 2007 when I was on the PABA board we received a piece of information that changed the way we looked at business.

The information came from the National GLBTQ Business Association. GLBTQ professionals and business people (around 40%) were in the top 30% of the country’s earning power. This tidbit of information is one of the reasons our community, across the country, has been able to change laws and benefit from greater equality.

Money talks. Even today stores such as Target, Walmart, as well as Banks, and large manufacturers know that a substantial amount of their business comes from our community. Our community includes our friends and allies in general who help push the tides. As a community, we are a force to be reckoned with. In many ways, we are like a tsunami best to get out of our way because the waves are changing the very face of our land.

This is all good news, and it means we as a national community can do something else. We can alter the inequality in pay and opportunity. Not just for our community but for all of those outside of the community. It does us little good to stay insular and separated as a group. It is the integration into the general population that is the real test of our Equal Rights. It is only when we are allowed full use of all facilities that we are living Martin Luther Kings dream for all people. No more separate bathrooms, no more ghettos, home-

HARVEY MILK Continued from page 9

Harvey Milk Short: These shorts are made from a fabric reminiscent of vintage garments; they come embroidered in stone washed style with a rainbow flag on the watch pocket. They also include Harvey Milk patches and a rainbow L-tab. Gender-neutral sizing ranges from waist 24–36.

Pride Baseball Cap: A 5-panel hat with fastened back featuring Levi’s rainbow batwing embroidery. pqmonthly.com

less youth and health insura nce t hat does not cover Transgender needs.

We have the power to reset the economic growth of this country. A grass-roots evolution/revolution whereby we use the power, we have to become fully integrated into the well-being of our nation and hopefully the global world.

The science of quantum physics tells us that we are all connected. Our actions as individuals have an effect on those around us and those we may never know. The actual lesson of the 21st century is that what is done to one is done to us all. None of us are free, healthy, and loved until we all are. Yeah, yeah I know sounds a little too altruistic, but then there has never been a revolution whose ideas didn’t seem out of the reach of us everyday folks.

The truth is we are responsible for each other. We are responsible for the environment the lack of equal pay and opportunity. Until each of us dares to accept the responsibility none of us can move forward where our children, our friends’ children, the world’s children are truly free to live a life where they are free of hunger and want, where they have an opportunity to learn and create. A society who doesn’t look to the future includes everyone in its opportunity is psychotic in its actions.

We must dare to change the consciousness of our world. To become mindful of all peoples, need to have food, clean water, and clean air. These very basic requirements in all humanity are neglected by all of us who have them. Abraham Maslow’s idea of a hierarchy of humanity is that without the basics needs of survival we can’t be without violence, nor reach for social equality, intellectual curiosity, and self-integration through self-knowledge.

Our world is a place of the watershed in history. We are the tsunami that is building and ready to break through. If you can look at the Truth and dare to look at yourself and our community, you have taken the first step.

This is a series look for more specifics on what can be done next month…

Pride Bandana: Iconic Levi’s navy bandana with a paisley print featuring Levi’s rainbow batwing embroidery.

Levi’s x Harvey Milk Patch: With the tradition of introducing a collectable patch each year, Levi’s celebrates Harvey Milk with a collectable patch for 2016.

The Levi’s x Harvey Milk Foundation Pride 2016 Collection will be available beginning mid-May 2016 online and in retail stores throughout the U.S. For more information about the Levi’s x Harvey Milk Foundation collection visit LeviStrauss.com.

JUNE/JULY 2016 • 11

FEATURE

STILL SINGING LOUD AND PROUD!

By Shaley Howard, PQ Monthly

The Portland Lesbian Choir (PLC) is celebrating their 30th anniversary this year and performed together with the Portland Gay Men’s Chorus (PGMC) in a concert called “The Miles Fly By” June 4th at Revolution Hall. Their debut performance was in June 1987 as guests of the PGMC for a Pride concert called “Together.” At the time the PGMC itself was only five years old, so coming together to celebrate 30 years was and is a historical and extraordinary event!

The PLC was started in the fall of 1986 by founder Cathryn Heron and Amy Valentine. The original purpose of the group was to sing, meet friends, build community and promote harmonious singing with others. Starting out with just a few members, they decided to name the group the Portland Lesbian Choir. Back then, it was very risky to be so bold and publically out as a lesbian, let alone a whole group of lesbians singing! The fear of discrimination, loss of employment or potential physical harm was very real. But 30 years later, the choir now consists of over 70 members and continues to thrive.

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“We perform music that affirms the value of all people regardless of gender, race, age, class, or political affiliation, and respect members’ feelings as they relate to these issues. We are proud to provide a supportive setting where music making is a positive experience and where women can develop confidence and concrete skills such as reading music, conducting, accompanying, arranging, etc. Through our performances and other activities, the choir provides educational, cultural and social enrichment for its members and its audiences as well as providing a positive contribution to the community.

Through our music, we support love and tolerance for all people.” -PLC Website.

Their music themes are about peace, freedom and social justice with an emphasis on music by, for, and about women. Recent music performed for their 30th-anniversary show included Katy Perry‘s “Fireworks”, Sara Barielles’ “Brave” and a song written by Randy Driscoll about the murder of Matthew Shepard called “What Matters.” A sam-

pling of their older music consisted of songs like “Sisters You Keep Me Fighting” and “I Like Being a Dyke” – love it!

Sparky Lindsay is the PLC Production Coordinator and has been with the chorus for years.

“The PLC has performed at Pride every year and also marched in the parade to promote and support LGBTQ rights and equality. We’ve also performed at events supporting issues on civil rights, elders, and domestic violence prevention. One of the most significant memories of singing with the PLC was a joint tour we participated in with PGMC and Bridges, a singing group of combined PLC/ PGMC members. We traveled to Klamath Falls, Medford, and Newport Oregon during the height of the “No on 9” Oregon ballot measures, which sought to legalize discrimination against LGBTQ persons statewide. We sang combined performances in these small communities to audiences afraid to be out or even supportive of LGBTQ issues.”

Mary McCarty is the Director of the PLC who also directs an a cappella group “Cascade” for PGMC, Kim Horenstein is the accompanist, and the PLC music committee is led

by Tina Forbes. In addition to performing with the PGMC, they have also sung with the Rose City Gay Freedom Band, Soromundi from Eugene and Bridges Vocal Ensemble.

The PLC is a non-audition, community women’s chorus open to all and anyone over 16 is welcome to join. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings in Northeast Portland. They accept new members twice a year in the fall and early spring and offer three formal concerts a year; two in the fall and one in the spring. If you are interested in joining the PLC or want to receive emails about upcoming events and concerts, go to portlandlesbianchoir@hotmail.com or check out their website at www.plchoir.com.

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FEATURES CALENDAR

PRIDE EVENTS THURSDAY, JUNE 9

Official Pride Kickoff Party hosted by PQ Monthly. Meet and mingle with PQ’s fabulous writers, staff and local community leaders while we launch into the Pride party season. Get your Pride edition and check out the extended event calendar! We’ll be getting in the party spirit with a show from Sir Cupcake’s Queer Circus plus performances

by Bomb Ass Pussy, Turnback Boyz, CJ Mickens and more. The KeyBank Pride KIckoff Party brought to you by PQ Monthly is a benefit for Pride Nw. Lots of food and drinks. 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at My Bartender, 2305 SE 9th Ave.

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

2016 PDX Trans Pride March. Ensuring equal rights and improving the quality of life for all transgender LGBTQIA+ Oregonian peers and members statewide and nationally through legal advocacy, peer support, and social justice organizing. 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. More info at https://www.facebook.com/pdxtranspride/

THURSDAY, JUNE 16

Frisky Whisker Pride. A queer body positive non ageist racially diverse hairy strip night hosted at STAG PDX. Tickets $8. 8 p.m. through 2 a.m. at Stag, 317 NW Broadway.

room, 1332 W. Burnside St.

SATURDAY JUNE 18/ SUNDAY JUNE 19

Portland’s Official Northwest Pride Festival. Walk the loop and check out the booths from Portland’s LGBTQ-friendly orgs and vendors. Noon to 6 p.m. at the Tom McCall Waterfront Park in Downtown Portland. $10 or $6 if you come in plaid, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Funhouse Lounge, 2432 SE 11th Ave. Bridge Club Presents Club Destiny. An adventure in futurism, CLUB DESTINY is an one-night-only Pride exclusive. CRUISING WANTED! Featuring MA DEE JAY (LA, Nguzunguzu, Fade to Mind), Chanti Darling DJs, Hold My Hand, Troubled Youth, Casual Aztec, Prince$$ Dimebag and more. $10, 21+, 8 p.m. at White Owl Social Club, 1305 SE 8th Ave. Pants Off Dance Off PRIDE. Crush’s famous clothing-optional dance party features a safe cellphone-free space to go bare as you dare. Capacity is limited—come early! Bar open all day, $5 cover after 9 p.m., official event runs 8 p.m. to close. Clothescheck $2. Crush Bar, 1400 SE Morrison St.

Playground PDX Pride Ft. DJ Lady Miss Kier. Get the super-exclusive Meet & Greet VIP Package to kiki with Lady Miss FRIDAY, JUNE 17 Kier and get your portrait taken with her by photographer Gula Glow Run. A 3 mile LED glowing loop on Portland’s waterfront. Delgatto! To ensure the best experience, only a limited number of Register at http://prideglowrun.com/ and receive a pride glow run VIP tickets are available, so grab one quick before they sell out! 9 T-shirt, Glow Bracelets, Glow Necklaces and a LED Glow Baton. p.m. at Holocene, 1001 SE Morrison St. 9:30 p.m. to 11:55 p.m. at SW Morrison and SW Naito Pkwy.

Lez Out! Pride Edition presented by Lez Do It. Special guest SATURDAY JUNE 18. performance by The Last Artful Dodgr, special guest DJ II Trill Portland Trans Pride March by Greater Portland Trans (Twerk), resident djs Chelsea Starr and Mr Charming. 9 p.m. to Unity. Organized by Greater Portland Trans Unity. 2 p.m. at North 2 a.m. Cover $5 at Killingsworth Dynasty, 832 N Killingsworth.

Park Blocks.

Gaylabration. An annual evening dance party and fundraiser.

Lumbertink PDX Plaid Pride. Enjoy a gorgeous day on the The first Gaylabration was launched in 2011 marking the paspatio. DJs Matt Consola, Orographic, Danny Dolan and Freddy sage of marriage equality legislation in New York. Early tickets King of Pants. Photo booth by Wayne Bund Photography. Cover start at $14.99. 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at McMenamins Crystal Ball-

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SUNDAY, JUNE 19

Portland Pride Parade. The lights! The sights! The drag queens! Thousands line the streets of Downtown Portland to watch up to 150 groups march the course from Burnside to the Waterfront. Support your friends in the parade, wave to local celebrities and politicos, or scoop of piles of free schwag. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., starting at W Burnside & NW Park.

Club Kai-Kai & Bridge Club are teaming up to bring you an all day, inside-outside, Sunday pride party to serve your every queer need at Star Theatre: T-Dances, drag performances, hedonism and messy memories, with the ability to be both in and out of the sun. To bring this party to the next level, they are bringing Bob the Drag Queen, from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 8, to headline TWO SHOWS; An all ages show from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., and a 21+ show from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information visit http://bridgeclubkaikai.brownpapertickets.com. Tickets start at $20. 11 p.m. to 8 p.m. Star Theater, 13 NW Sixth Ave.

THURSDAY, JUNE 23

Portland Black Pride presents Shades Dance Party.

Enjoy a DJ, Drink Specials, and more! 8 p.m. at Dig A Pony, 736 SE Grand Ave.

FRIDAY, JUNE 24

Portland Black Pride presents Oaks Park Family Fun Day. For $5 you get unlimited rides and also skates for the skating rink! Please bring food, drinks and snacks to picnic potluck!

Group photo at 7 p.m. 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Oaks Amusement Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park Way. --MATT PIZZUTI, CALENDAR EDITOR, PQ MONTHLY

JUNE/JULY 2016 • 13

CALENDAR

DANCE IT OUT 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. 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 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.

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Pants Off Dance Off. Come get bold and bawdy at Crush Bar’s monthly clothing-optional dance event, a bar-as-you-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

some funny. Special guests, and Crush’s signature cocktail and food menus. Donations, sliding scale. (Comics have to eat and drink, too, so give!) 9 p.m., Crush, 1400 SE Morrison.

Queens of the Night: Alexis Campbell Starr. That’s all you need to know. But there’s more: she always welcomes a special slew of talented queens for a night that takes Hip-Hop from beginning to end. 8 p.m., Local Lounge, 3536 NE MLK. Free.

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

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 SECOND FRIDAYS Slo Jams is a Queer Modern R&B & Neo Soul Dance Night at on the net.

Local Lounge. DJ II TRILL (TWERK) and DJ MEXXX-TAPE lay down everything from Mary J // Jagged Undergear: Eagle Portland’s monthly underwear, jock, mankini, Edge// Keyshia to Badu//Lauryn etc., fetish party every third Saturday. Free if you arrive before 9 p.m.

Etc. 10 p.m., Local Lounge, 3536 or if you use free clothes check upon entry after. After 9 p.m. arrivals who do not check clothes must pay $5 entry. Clothes check and rafNE MLK. $5. fle prize provided by Cub Cleaners. Eagle Portland, 835 N. Lombard.

SECOND SATURDAYS

Hot Flash: Inferno. (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 p.m.-10 p.m., Trio, 909 E. Burnside.

THIRD MONDAYS

Bump, grind and crash into your favorite queer friends at Gay Skate. Look for our publisher, who’s always handing out copies of PQ. And, you know, you’ll probably get a date. Every third Monday. Food drive for Take Action Inc. 7 p.m., Oaks Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park Way. $6.

THIRD TUESDAYS

Stranger Disco. An always-packed North Portland favorite queer dance party on North Williams; DJs Stormy Roxx, Vera Rubin and Sappho. 21+, $5, starts at 9 p.m., Vendetta, 4306 N. Williams Ave.

FOURTH FRIDAYS

Twerk. DJs ILL Camino and II Trill. Keywords: bring your twerk.

The city’s longest-running queer hip hop/R&B party—where artists, deejays, performers come to mix, mingle, and move on the dance floor. We promise you you’ll move all night long. 10 p.m., Killingsworth Dynasty, 832 N Killingsworth. $5.

Club Kai-Kai. A crazy, cozy, packed dance party for queers at Saucebox. Club Kai-Kai (at it’s most basic) is an experimentation of nightlife, performance, and your gender preference. If you have questions, we don’t have answers; we just have a space for you to Kai-Kai. $5 cover, 21+ at Saucebox, 214 SW Broadway.

FOURTH SATURDAYS

Blow Pony. Two giant floors. Wide variety of Beareoke PDX is BACK! Invite all the bears & chasers you know music, plenty of room for dancing. Rowdy, crowdy, sweaty betty, who karaoke. Free! 9 p.m. at Scandals, 1125 SW Stark St. the one tried and true, even after all these years. 9 p.m., Euphoria, 315 SE 3. $7.

THIRD WEDNESDAYS

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

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

LAST SUNDAYS

Sabbathhause Discotheque, gay night is back at Aalto lounge and it is bigger and more queer than ever before. Featuring some of the best deejays and performers around and hosted by night hawk Chanticleer Tru. 8 p.m., Aalto Lounge, 3356 SE Belmont.

--MATT PIZZUTI, CALENDAR EDITOR, PQ MONTHLY pqmonthly.com

GET OUT FRIDAY, JUNE 10

Pantyraid at Euphoria. The wild, wanderlusty underground moving queer dance party is coming to Euphoria for a pre-pride party the weekend before. Doors open at 8 p.m., tickets $15 to $20. 21+. 315 SE 3rd Ave.

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

Magical Unicorn Ride.

Your preview to Portland’s Naked Bike Ride, unicorn style. Ride as bare as you dare—just roll around in sparkles or paint your body in rainbows if you want! The shimmery and more glittery, the better. Bike decorations highly encouraged. Meet at 2 p.m. at Colonel Summers Park, 1801 SE Taylor St. Ride starts at 2:15.

Portland Vegan Beer and Food Festival. More than 50 breweries, 30 restaurants, plus wine, kombucha, soda, entertainment and more. See the full lineup at veganbeerfest.com/ pdx. Tickets start at $45. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Zidell Yards, 3121 SW Moody Ave. Mrs. presents Queen. Queen is about positivity in Portland’s queer scene. Bring your hottest & most flamboyantly PROUD nightlife versions of your beautiful selves—stand-out looks get a free drink and being chosen for the promo poster gets you and friends in the next month’s party free. 10 p.m. til close. $5 at Mississippi Studios, 3939 N. Mississippi Ave.

JUNE 18-19

Oregon Renaissance Fair.

If Pride celebrations are not your scene, get out of town—and out of the century—to celebrate the Shakespearean Age in Canby. Explore the streets of a reconstructed Vale of Dunrose, indulge in the food and drink, catch the eye of the queen and shout Huzzah at the Knights of the Realm as they joust. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., More info at oregonfaire.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 25

The World Naked Bike Ride. Join thousands of fellow cyclists in Portland’s famous

protest for bicycle rights and body positivity. Stay tuned: The starting location and route is TBA to discourage the wrong kinds of looky-loos, but be sure to save the date to join in on one of the best PDX events of the year! Stay updated at pdxwnbr.org.

The Dolly Parton Hoot Nite. Portland’s best musicians pay tribute to one of country music’s most iconic songwriters. $15 General Admission. 8 p.m. at the Alberta Rose Theatre, 3000 NE Alberta St.

SUNDAY, JUNE 26

Peacock in the Park—an all-ages, family friendly summertime spectacular featuring live music, drag entertainers, dancers and more for a fun-filled day in the park. Either bring your own picnic or grab a snack at one of the Peacock concessions carts. Admission is free the event is a fundraiser and donations are encouraged. Visit peacockinthepark.org for more info. 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. in Washington Park.

Families of Color Day Out 2016. Round off Portland Black Pride 2016 with Families of Color Day Out! Food, fun, games, music, prizes, and more!

Bring your blankets, cards, and family and meet us on the NE Killingsworth side of the park. 2 p.m. at Alberta City Park, NE 22nd Ave. Your Sunday Best Vol. 2. Believe You Me & Savory are proud to present another installment of Your Sunday Best on the beautiful White Owl Social Club patio. Seriously, come in your Sunday Best, it’s the dress code. Cover $10. 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. at White Owl Social Club, 1305 SE 8th Ave.

MONDAY, JUNE 27

But I’m A Cheerleader! Screening. In celebration of PRIDE Month, Portland Women’s Film Festival presents two special screenings of the

hilarious 1999 film, directed by Jamie Babbit.

This cult classic is a queer coming of age tale centered around the story of a naive teenager sent to rehab camp when her straitlaced parents and friends suspect her of being a lesbian. Shows at 7 p.m. at 9 p.m. Bring your friends & celebrate Pride with POWFest and the Clinton Street Theater, 2522 SE Clinton St. Tickets on a sliding scale of $5-10 at the door or online for $8.

THURSDAY, JUNE 30

Heartbeat Silent Disco presents Take it to the Bridge! Get together around 6:45 on the Tilikum Bridge to stretch and guarantee you headphones. There is a requested $5 donation for the use of the headphones and you must have a Valid Driver’s License or ID to check them out. This is a family friendly event. 6 p.m. Text “@ silentPDX” to 23559 for regular updates about upcoming silent discos.

6 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 2

Pants Off Dance Off Red, White and Nude. Crush’s famous clothing-optional dance party is back again early to celebrate Independence Day weekend. The event features a safe cellphone-free space to go bare as you dare. Capacity is limited—come early! Bar open all day, $5 cover after 9 p.m., official event runs 8 p.m. to close. Clothes-check $2. Crush Bar, 1400 SE Morrison St.

MONDAY, JULY 4

Oregon Food Bank’s Waterfront Blues Festival and Fireworks.

Portland’s annual blues festival is the largest fireworks display in the state with 11,800 individual fireworks starting at 10:10 p.m. Free!

Fourth of July Celebration at Oaks Park. “Portland’s favorite 4th of July celebration is at the place where the fun never

CALENDAR

ends! Join us for first come, first served access to all of our picnic areas, extended ride and roller skating hours, and the city’s best fireworks display.” Gates open at 10 a.m., fireworks at dusk. $5 to get in the park. Oaks Amusement Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park Way.

THURSDAY, JULY 7

Movies in the Park season begins with Dead Poets Society.

Portland’s annual summer film series brings free classic movies to different public parks through the summer. Entertainment begins at 6:30 PM and the film begins at dusk (times vary). On July 7 the 1989 film Dead Poets Society will screen at North Park Blocks between Ankeny and Glisan street. (on Friday July 8: Minions in Wishire Park at 33rd and Skidmore.)

For the full list of screenings visit https://www. portlandoregon.gov/parks/69554.

SATURDAY, JULY 9

Saturday in the Park Pride. As Portland’s pride season winds down, celebrate LGBTQ Pride all over again with Portland’s neighbor to the near north: Vancouver, Washington. A free event open to all. Some details are still being planned: check for more info/updates at sitppride.org/event.html. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Esther Short Park, 415 W 6th St. in Downtown Vancouver, Washington.

Mississippi Street Fair. Hundreds of local vendors and booths, music and entertainment, food, beer/wine and more. Enjoy the summer day and visit the shops on N. Mississippi Ave. between Fremont and Skidmore. Free! 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 16

Gresham Arts Festival.

Check out vendors and art in Gresham’s heart.

Music, food and fund in downtown Gresham.

Take the Max Blue Line East from Portland to visit the event without a car. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Downtown Gresham.

--MATT PIZZUTI, CALENDAR EDITOR, PQ MONTHLY JUNE/JULY 2016 • 15

16 • JUNE/JULY 2016

pqmonthly.com

— 2016 —

FEATURES

PORTLAND

PRIDE

PRIDE BEGINS WITH YOU! PRIDENW.ORG

PHOTO BY: MARICO FAYRE

Official Portland Pride Guide

FEATURES

2 • OFFICIAL PORTLAND PRIDE GUIDE 2016

PRIDENW.ORG

PERS{ECTOVES

OFFICIAL PORTLAND PRIDE GUIDE 2016

DAWN HOLT GIVEN THE 2016 PRIDE NW GRETCHEN KAFOURY ALLY AWARD

DAWN BOYLES HOLT

By George T. Nicola Last revised April 20, 2016

PFLAG Portland began many decades ago as a supportive group of parents who wanted to rescue their young adult

PRIDENW.ORG

children from a lifetime of homophobic marginalization.

Today, the organization supports the entire LGBTQ spectrum, and is about half straight cis ally and half LGBTQ in membership. It has battled homophobia and transphobia in order to help individuals. Its work with parents has rescued countless families from dysfunction and estrangement.

Dawn Boyles Holt has been president of PFLAG Portland for the past nine years. Her husband Shaun Simpkins handles communications, the website, and the database. The two are parents of a gay man. Neither has ever received any financial compensation for their work. But Dawn’s contributions were abundantly demonstrated in 2014 when PFLAG Portland became the first LGBTQ organization to win the City of Portland’s prestigious Spirit of Portland Award in the award’s 30 year history.

Dawn was first elected president in 2007, leading a new board that refocused PFLAG Portland’s efforts on those most in need – youth, transgender individuals and their families, and communities of color.

Seven years ago under Dawn’s leadership, PFLAG Portland reached out to parents and leaders in the African American community in support of what led to the creation of PFLAG Portland Black Chapter (PPBC). PPBC is the first PFLAG chapter in the nation to be created by and for the African American community. Its achievements have been stellar.

Under Dawn, PFLAG Portland has been very success-

ful in grant-making through its Mini-Grant program which gives funds to Gay Straight Alliances and other youth-led organization to help them serve LGBTQ youth. PFLAG Portland has warmly embraced the trans community for many years, and is a leader in modeling how PFLAG can serve the needs of the trans people and their families.

In 2014, PFLAG Portland started a group that meets in much more conservative Gresham - PFLAG Portland East County. That same year, Dawn was appointed PFLAG’s Regional Director for Oregon, Washington, Montana, Idaho, and Alaska. In this role, Dawn has facilitated the establishment of numerous PFLAG chapters in small towns and rural areas that are not so LGBTQ friendly. In many cases, these chapters are the only organizations in those localities that give any support to LGBTQ people.

Every year the PFLAG National Network honors exceptional chapters in three categories: Support, Education, and Advocacy. Last year, the PFLAG Portland family of chapters shared the support award with PFLAG Columbia-Howard (Maryland) for its leadership in developing its network of community-responsive chapters to better serve the diverse Portland Metro area. (http://www.glapn.org/6042ArticlesElsewhere.html#pflagaward) Thanks to Dawn, PFLAG Portland is becoming an even brighter beacon of love and hope. In appreciation of her monumental contributions, Pride Northwest gives Dawn Boyles Holt its 2016 Gretchen Kafoury Ally Award.

OFFICIAL PORTLAND PRIDE GUIDE 2016 • 3

NIGHTLIFE

OFFICIAL PORTLAND PRIDE GUIDE 2016

GET INSIDE THE MINDS OF THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE PRIDE HAPPEN!

We sat down with some of our core volunteers and asked them the tough, hard-hitting questions that we all want to know.

CHRISTOPHER P.

Core Volunteer Age: 33 Pronouns: He/Him Day Job: Self-Employed Pride Northwest: Would you rather live the remainder of your life without electric lighting, or without flushing toilets?

Christopher P.: Candle light is romantic. There is nothing romantic about an outhouse, or at least not that I am into.

PNW: If you had to participate in the Olympic Games, which event would you take part in?

CP: Curling. Clearly that is the only sport this Olympic body would not look awkward in.

PNW: What is the last movie that made you cry?

CP: Movies really don’t get me all the way to full tears. However, when I was really young my parents took me to see The Land Before Time and I cried so much when Little Foot’s mom died! To this day that still makes me water up.

PNW: If you had to sacrifice one category of clothing (i.e., socks, pants, jackets, etc.) for the remainder of your life, what would it be?

CP: The practical side of me says socks because that would not be the most awkward thing. However I have a lot of cute underwear so I would also consider pants.

PNW: Would you rather give your best friend a kidney or a $10,000 loan?

CP: A Kidney. At least we go into the kidney exchange not expecting to have it repaid.

Let’s just be honest.

PNW: How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop? CP: I am going to go with what the owl said, 3.

MEGAN T.

Assistant Parade Coordinator Age: 20 Pronouns: They/Them Day Job: Student Pride Northwest: Which post-apocalyptic world would you choose to live in: The Walking Dead, The Hunger Games, or Mad Max? Megan T.: Mad Max for sure! I don’t know if it’s the delicate line between sanity and madness, or if it is the idea of Charlize Theron being the hero. To be honest, I begged the local movie theatre for one of their movie posters. Now I have it framed and hung next to my bed.

PNW: Least favorite candy to find in your Halloween haul?

MT: Whoppers. I will actually lick the chocolate off of them and throw away the center…

It’s a texture thing and I cannot handle it. Biting into one makes me cringe.

PNW: Which Ian McKellan is better: Gandalf or Magneto?

MT: Gandalf. It’s the beard and the pipe that really does it for me.

PNW: What is the last movie that made you cry?

MT: I recently watched V for Vendetta for the first time and I cried so hard. It’s been roughly two weeks since I have seen it and I have yet to conclude if it is my new favorite movie or if I actually hate it.

PNW: Time travel vacation: would you rather spend a week in Medieval England, or Ancient Egypt?

MT: Both would suck on the lines of equality but I would have to say Egypt, because if all else failed, I could be have a nice little farm. In England, if anything went wrong, I would be stuck waiting for the Plague.

PNW: What is your favorite breakfast?

MT: Waffles. Not blueberry, or chocolate, but regular homemade waffles. My only harsh request is that there is butter in every single little waffle pocket. There has to be butter in every single waffle pocket and syrup over all of it (maple syrup only) or I cannot truly enjoy it. All in all, feel free to make me waffles. Waffles are always a safe bet. I accept waffles on all occasions.

4 • OFFICIAL PORTLAND PRIDE GUIDE 2016

SHARMA S.

VIP Committee Co-Chair Age: 29 Pronouns: She/Her Day Job: Financial Analyst Pride Northwest: If you could teleport to any location on the planet right now, where would you go?

Sharma S.: Mt. Everest, because that is literally the only way my lazy butt is going to get to the top of that mountain.

PNW: If you could pair up any two celebrities in a boxing match, whom would you choose?

SS: The Rock and Kayne West. Who wouldn’t like to see Kayne get hit in the face?

PNW: Would you rather give your best friend a kidney or a $10,000 loan?

SS: Kidney, ‘cause I definitely don’t got $10,000.

PNW: If kidnapped by a villainous mastermind, which superhero would you hope to be saved by?

SS: Sam and Dean Winchester. They are a package deal.

PNW: Which post-apocalyptic world would you choose to live in: The Walking Dead, The Hunger Games, or Mad Max? SS: The Walking Dead! I would crush it! I’ve been mentally preparing for a zombie apocalypse for the last 4 years.

PNW: Which Hogwarts house would you be sorted into?

SS: Honestly, it would probably be Ravenclaw because I value intelligence and wit. And because I read too much to be a Slytherin.

CHRIS D.

VIP Committee Co-Chair Age: 24 Pronouns: He/Him Day Job: UK Client Service Training Coordinator at Fisher Investments.

Pride Northwest: If you could pair up any two celebrities in a boxing match, whom would you choose?

Chris D.: Nicki Minaj and Dej Loaf - it would turn into the most badass lady rap battle. MY DREAM! PNW: Where would be the worst place lose your keys?

CD: Porta-potty.They are in there for good.

PNW: If forced to choose, which Kardashian would you vote into congressional office?

CD: Who are the Kardashians?

PNW: Ultimate Trilogy-Off: Lord of the Rings or Star Wars?

CD: Star Wars, which is a recent change in heart. LOTR used to be my favorite, but that was more because I was a SW virgin. Once you feel the force, you never go back.

PNW: If you could teleport to any location on the planet right now, where would you go?

CD: Patagonia... not the store, the region of South America. Although, I do like a nice fleece.

PNW: What was your favorite 90s sitcom?

CD: Friends. Ross and I are the same person.

ARTEMIS C.

Entertainment Committee Chair Age: Older than Miley, younger than Cher Pronouns: I couldn’t care less. Call me anything you want.

Day Job: Massage and Wellness Pride Northwest: Which post-apocalyptic world would you choose to live in: The Walking Dead, The Hunger Games, or Mad Max? Artemis C.: I hate to say it, but The Hunger | Continues on page 5

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OFFICIAL PORTLAND PRIDE GUIDE 2016 Games. With all my crazy hair and makeup I’d definitely be one of those terrible people living in the capital.

PNW: What is your favorite breakfast?

AC: Chicken and Waffles (with a side of bacon and two cappuccinos)! I’m such a glutton when it comes to brunch!

PNW: If you could teleport to any location on the planet right now, where would you go?

AC: My favorite city on earth! Buenos Aires, Argentina. Land of the best pizza and ice cream on earth!

PNW: If forced to choose, which Kardashian would you vote into congressional office?

AC: I’d rather choose for the earth to be hit by a giant asteroid I think…

PNW: If kidnapped by a villainous mastermind, which superhero would you hope to be saved by?

AC: Captain America (played by Chris Evans of course!) Swoon!

PNW: What is the last movie that made you cry?

AC: Batman vs. Superman. I haven’t watched it, but its very existence brought me to tears.

Continued from page 4

RICK B.

Parade Committee Chair Age: 34 (or 21, depending on who’s asking) Pronouns: He/Him

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CALENDAR

Day Job: Problem Solver (I split my time between a farm and a machine shop, so it’s hard to quantify what I do!)

Pride Northwest: If you could pair up any two celebrities in a boxing match, whom would you choose?

Rick B.: Sara Silverman and Robert Downey, Jr. ‘Cause... I mean... c’mon.

PNW: If forced to choose, which Kardashian would you vote into congressional office?

RB: Yeah... ah... no. What’s her nameJenner? Wait… don’t put “what’s her name”!

That’s not nice!

PNW: Which post-apocalyptic world would you choose to live in: The Walking Dead, The Hunger Games, or Mad Max? RB: The Walking Dead - without a doubt.

And I would have a motocycle that’s cooler than Daryl’s!

PNW: If you had to sacrifice one category of clothing (i.e., socks, pants, jackets, etc.) for the remainder of your life, what would it be?

RB: Shirts. Topless forever!

PNW: Time travel vacation: would you rather spend a week in Medieval England, or Ancient Egypt?

RB: Ancient Egypt. I don’t need to go on any crusades.

PNW: 6. Which Ian McKellan is better: Gandalf or Magneto?

RB: Actually, neither. The best Ian McKellan is in the music video for George Ezra’s Song, “Listen to the Man”.

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VOICES

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PNW GIVES BACK Pride Northwest believes strongly in supporting and promoting the efforts and work of our LGBTQ community. That is what Pride is all about-bringing visibility to the accomplishments, talents, and contributions of LGBTQ people, and to the issues affecting our community. Our spending priorities reflect that commitment.

The vast majority of the funds raised by Pride Northwest go to support the expenses of the annual Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade, one of the largest Pride celebrations on the west coast. On average the event itself carries an $180,000-$210,000 annual price tag. In addition to $36,000 devoted to underwriting booth and parade discounts for our nonprofit and community organizations, we provide a number of community spaces within the festival site, partnering with organizations like SAGE, SMYRC, the US Veteran’s Administration, and the Metropolitan Community Church, to provide programming and resources for our young people, families, elders, and LGBTQ veterans.

Through revenues raised in excess of event expenses and underwriting contributions, we then typically contribute:

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$5000+ to support Latino Pride, Black Pride, API Pride, and Trans Unity. Approximately $5000 goes to various community donations throughout the year. For example, we recently contributed $1500 to support the Queer Students of Color Conference at Portland State University, the first time we have been able to do this.

Last year (and likely will again this year) we contributed over $1000 toward the Imperial Sovereign Rose Court’s fundraising events (which support their scholarship fund), and almost that much to support several celebrations at the McLaren Youth Correctional Facility, where a burgeoning LGBTQ youth group celebrate National Coming Out Day and Pride at the facility (an effort that looks to be growing statewide in the Oregon Youth Authority).

Whether through sponsorship (on average, sponsorship accounts for about 30% of our revenue), registration fees, or direct donations, as one of the last large Pride celebrations without a mandatory entry fee, we depend on community support (that’s YOU!) to Make Pride Happen. Your $7 gate donation may not seem like much-but when we all give at the gate, we multiply what’s possible.

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Although Philip Astley is credited with being the ‘father’ of the modern circus when he opened the ‘first circus’ in 1768 in England. However, the term ‘circus’ also describes the performance which has followed various formats through its 250+year modern history. According to several sources on the internet, it is said that: The word circus derives from Latin circus, which is the Romanization of the Greek κίρκος (kirkos), itself a metathesis of the Homeric Greek κρίκος (krikos), meaning “circle” or “ring.” In the book De Spectaculis early Christian writer Tertullian claimed that the first circus games were staged by the goddess Circe in honor of her father Helios, the Sun God. Who better to celebrate the sun in Oregon than Jack StockLynn and his band of Queer and Tran’s performers that make up Sir Cupcake?

After graduating High School in Canby, Jack studied at Cornish College of the Arts.

Cornish College was founded in 1914 by Nellie Cornish, known as Miss Aunt Nellie.

Cornish College of the Arts is recognized as the premier accredited arts college in the Northwest and has inspired the highest standards of artistic and academic excellence including our very own Ringmaster Jack StockLynn.

Jack StockLynn is a gender-bending circus theater performer and teacher. He is currently obsessed with Trapeze, and is creating shows that provoke our thoughts, challenge our ideas, and twists their body to expand our mind. Jack is a transgender Portland-based Aerialist and Performer.

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years with such companies as DoJump!, Imago, AWOL, Echo Theater Company, Not all Clowns are Bozos, Topsy Turvy Queer Circus, Pervert the Cirque, and is the creator of the impresario Sir Cupcake.

He is also a teacher extraordinaire, specializing in physical theater, dance trapeze, and aerial silks. His person affirming positive teaching style have earned him many loyal students, some of whom are now performing in his Company, Sir Cupcake’s Queer Circus!

Sir Cupcake likes to explore mythology, grand gestures, and in their words “wicked magic.” He is a dandy bumbling trickster, whose tricks usually get the best of him. He enjoys sharing his performance experiments with his band of Queer and Tran’s performers, and absolutely delights in having a confusing gender.

PQ Monthly selected Jack StockLynn and Sir Cupcake to be the official Pride Guide cover because through their incredible acts of skill and individually strength demonstrate that Pride does, in fact, begin with you. The lesson we take way from our Ringmaster Jack and Sir Cupcake is that nothing is impossible, and all is beautiful. Come out from behind the sun and celebrate your light by being your authentic self!

For more information about how to book Jack StockLynn and Sir Cupcake, take in a show, or join the show (yes one can actually run-a-way with the circus by attending classes or workshops provided by this team) please go to our website or www.sircupcake.com.

PHOTO BY C. L. BOMBARDIER

By Melanie Davis, PQ Monthly

PHOTO BY ANTHONY ARNISTA

SIR CUPCAKE AND THE METATHESIS OF THE CIRCUS

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MUSIC

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FINANZAS - FINANCES

ARTE Y ENTRETENIMIENTO - ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT NOTICIAS LOCALES -SALUD LOCAL- HEALTH NEWS

VIVA TEQUILA PDX 2016 PRESENTED BY CASA HERRADURA

VIVA TEQUILA PDX

September 2nd and 3rd, 2016 The World Trade Center 121 SW Salmon Street Portland, Oregon 97204.

Admission is $35 for both days, including Saturday’s VIP tasting, $20 for General Admission either Day

Get your tickets at: VivaTequilaPDX.com Sponsors: DRINK SPONSOR

MONTHLY

ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR

VIVA TEQUILA PDX 2015 PRESENTED

BY CASA HERRADURA

*Event is 21 & older ONLY, valid proof of age required - * Viva Tequila PDX Benefits: Milagro Theatre a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Portland, Oregon whose mission is to provide extraordinary Latino Theater, culture and arts education experiences for the enrichment of all communities.

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WITH AGING & ILLNESS, SOME LGBT PEOPLE OPT FOR THE CLOSET Ellen Rand, New America Media

Lawrence Johnson and Alexandre Rheume were an interracial couple, who had been together 38 years until Rheume – 22 years older than Johnson – needed professional care as his health declined.

At first, Rheume moved to an assisted living development, but they both felt unwanted, uncomfortable and judged, as when Johnson would do such simple things as feeding or holding his partner’s hand. Rheume moved to a nursing home that felt more welcoming.

“It’s bad enough that you have to put someone in a nursing home,” Johnson explained to filmmaker Stu Maddux, whose documentary “Gen Silent” shares the experience of six LGBT elders in the Boston area. “Then to compound the fact there may be prejudices, and the person going into the nursing home might not be treated as well -- not in obvious ways but all these subtle things that let you know you’re not wanted.”

For elders who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) and contending with advanced illness, returning to the closet fearing deliberate neglect, disapproval or abuse is not uncommon.

FEARS ABOUT SENIOR HOMES Their fears are not unfounded. In Spring 2011, six organizations that advocate for elders and for the LGBT population published the study, “LGBT Older Adults in LongTerm Care Facilities: Stories from the Field.”

Among the highlights: Only 22 percent said they could feel open about their sexual orientation with staff at a nursing home, assisted living or another long-term care facility.

Of those who lived in longterm facilities, or cared for those who did, the most frequently reported problem was negative treatment from other residents, followed by verbal or physical harassment by staff.

Moreover, half reported staff refusing to provide basic care (such as toileting, bathing or feeding).

S o m e re s p o n d e n t s shared their sorrows and stories of lives derailed--couples separated by family members holding legal authority over the facility resident; feelings of loneliness and isolation because of disapproval by other residents or staff; having aides attempting to get people to “repent” for their sins; choosing to go back into the closet for fear of neglect or harm.

A 2011 study by the Center for American Progress and Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Elders (SAGE) found LGBT seniors to be significantly more vulnerable to isolation. Very few have children, they are twice as likely to live alone, twice as apt to be single than heterosexual elders, and often in poorer financial straits than their heterosexual peers.

According to the National Resource Center on LGBT Aging, the population of LGBT older adults in the U.S. will have more than tripled from about 2 million in 2010 to 7 million by 2030.

THE HIV IMPACT Also, more than one-third of the 1.25 million people in the U.S. living with HIV in 2011 were aged 50 or older, according

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to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Speaking earlier in April at the Association of Health Care Journalists’ annual conference, James Hekman, MD, a clinical assistant professor at the Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western University, in Cleveland, listed a spec-

the Southwest Folklife Alliance’s Continuum project, which shares cultural knowledge about traditions, expressions, and practices associated with experiencing the end-of-life, mourning, and death in Southern Arizona’s folk, ethnic, occupational, faith-based and alternative communities.

SUICIDE IS A REAL POSSIBILITY

trum of HIV-associated illnesses, such as cardiovascular disease, non-AIDS cancers, liver, kidney and neurological diseases. Up to 30 percent of people living with HIV have abnormal kidney function, which, untreated, can be fatal.

If contending with a serious illness is a challenge for gay and lesbian individuals and those living with HIV, it presents, even more, hurdles for transgender individuals (evidence of which can be found on Twitter, hashtag #transhealthfail).

Research has exposed health professionals’ widespread bias against LGBT people. The 2010 report, “When Health Care Isn’t Caring,” surveyed nearly 5,000 people on discrimination against LGBT people and those living with AIDS. About half of study participants reported that health care providers had refused needed care, declined to touch them or took other excessive precautions, blamed them for their health status, or were physically rough or abusive.

Also, transgender individuals reported being subjected to substantially more of these kinds of events. Transgender individuals generally are at a higher risk for experiencing advanced stages of long-term diseases due to their mistrust of the health care system and experience of rejection, discrimination or simple lack of medical knowledge about trans people by health care professionals.

“Health care providers do not know anything about us,” said one of eight people interviewed for the 2014 paper, “Aging With Pride: End of Life Conversations in Tucson’s Elder LGBT Communities,” by Penelope Starr.

She explained that this speaker was a fifty-something female-to-male transgender individual, who added that some health professionals “are just now starting to get a little in medical school, but they do not know how to talk to us--what our issues are. [They] do not have the right questions on their forms, do not know what the appropriate hormone dosage is and what to look for in blood work.”

Starr was one of some “citizen folklorists” engaged by

When fear, isolation or depression become unbearable, suicide is a very real possibility, noted Imani Woody, Ph.D., founding a director and president of the LGBT-friendly Mary’s House for Older Adults, slated to open in in the Washington, D.C. area next winter.

“Research is showing that a large majority of older gay folks are going back into the closet. Anecdotally, we are finding their numbers climbing in the suicide rates,” said Woody, who blogs for the Diverse Elders Coalition.

She continued, “We know that the realities of living alone--not having a partner or spouse, leaving one’s home, and becoming dependent on systems and people--can bring about a sense of loss and grief so great that suicide seems the only answer.”

What’s needed, Woody said, echoing LGBT individuals and advocates, is to “change the environments that cause our elders to run back into the closet for safety or commit suicide.”

Caregiving and grief took its toll on Lawrence Johnson, who admitted to becoming increasingly isolated, depressed and suicidal as Alexandre Rheume’s health declined. But Johnson’s story has a happier ending than most: He began to write poetry and after Rheume’s death, gradually began a new chapter and a new relationship.

Ellen Rand is a journalist, hospice volunteer and author of the book Last Comforts: Notes from the Forefront of Late Life Care. Amazon.com/author/ellenrand. Website: http:// lastcomforts.com. Twitter: @EllenRandNJ.

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GLAPN FEATURE FEATURE VOICES

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FEATURE

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-PRIDE 2016FESTIVAL HOURS: Saturday 6/18 12PM to 6PM Sunday 6/19 12PM to 6PM Free shuttle from the Waterfront Pride Festival to the Scandal’s Block Party.

Skip the lines!! Use the Express Entry at the VIP gate along the seawall. (*$20 donation or VIP pass required to use the Express Entry - $7 suggested donation at North and South gates) Ample (paid) parking is available at Downton garages. We do recommend taking mass transit on Sunday due to the increased traffic and crowds associated with the Parade.

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DIRECTIONS TO THE FESTIVAL From I-5, coming from the South Take I-5 North to exit 299B Take SW Harbor drive to Naito Parkway Right onto Naito Parkway (The Festival is at Waterfront Park between the Morrison Bride and Pine St) From I-5, coming from the North Take I-5 South to exit 300B Continue onto SE Morrison Bridge Take a left onto Naito Parkway (The Festival is at Waterfront Park between the Morrison Bride and Pine St)

From the West Take US26 East to exit 74 Continue on SW Market to Naito Parkway Take a left onto Naito Parkway (The Festival is at Waterfront Park between the Morrison Bride and Pine St) From the East Take I-84 West, exit to City Center Continue onto SE Morrison Bridge to Naito Parkway Take a left onto Naito Parkway (The Festival is at Waterfront Park between the Morrison Bride and Pine St)

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THE KEY BANK PRIDE KICK-OFF PARTY BROUGHT TO YOU BY PQ MONTHLY A BENEFIT FOR PRIDE NW Date: Thursday, June 9, 2016 Time: 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM Location: My Bartender located at 2305 SE 9th Ave, Portland Tickets: $8.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door

AARP OREGON AND SAGE METRO PDX PRESENTA SCREENING GRANDMA, STARING LILY TOMLIN

Date: Wednesday, June 15, 2016 Time: 6:30PM to 8:00PM Where: Academy Theater – 7818 SE Stark St, Portland Tickets: Admission is FREE! - Reserve your tickets by calling 1-877-926-8300

THE TRANS MARCH

Date: Saturday - June 18, 2016 Time: 2:00pm Where: North Park Blocks Tickets: Free (https://www.facebook.com/events/104984173236379)

ALL TERRAIN EVENTS PRESENTS - PRIDE GLOW RUN, A FUN RUN/WALK/SKIP FOR EVERYONE!

Date: Friday, June 17, 2016 Time: 9:30PM to 11:00PM Where: Waterfront Park – Underneath the Morrison Bridge Tickets: $45 each- Individual, $40 each- Team (www.prideglowrun.com)

GAYLABRATION, THE SATURDAY NIGHT DANCE PARTY Date: Saturday - June 18, 2016 Time: 10:00pm - Late Where: The Crystal Ballroom 1332 W Burnside St, Portland Tickets: for ticket info visit www.gaylabration.org

THE QUEER COMEDY SHOWCASE, FEATURING DEANNE SMITH

Date: Friday, June 10, 2016 Time: 7:30PM and 9:30PM Where: Curious Comedy Theater 5225 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland Tickets: $15 in advance/$20 at the door (www.brownpapertickets.com)

PRIDE NORTHWEST PRESENTS, AN EVENING WITH LOCAL LGBTQ AUTHORS

Date: Tuesday, June 14, 2016 Time: 5:00PM and 7:00PM Where: Q Center - 4115 N Mississippi Ave, Portland Tickets: Admission is FREE! (**the authors may have copies of their books for sale**)

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PRIDE NORTHWEST PRESENTS: THE 2016 PORTLAND PRIDE FESTIVAL

Date: Saturday - June 18, 2016 and Sunday - June 19, 2016 Time: 12:00PM to 6:00PM Where: Tom McCall Waterfront Park Tickets: $7 Suggested Donation (www.pridenw.org)

THE 2016 PORTLAND DYKE MARCH

Date: Saturday June 18, 2016 Time: 6:00 PM Where: Starts at the Portland Pride Festival at Tom McCall Waterfront Park (SW Pine and SW Naito Parkway) Tickets: Free (www.facebook.com/PortlandDykeMarch)

PRIDE NORTHWEST PRESENTS: THE 2016 PORTLAND PRIDE PARADE

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2016 PARADE GRAND MARSHAL PORTLAND TWO SPIRIT SOCIETY people and encompasses gender, sexuality and a connection to indigenous cultures and defines the visibility of multiple genders. The term brings an indigenous lens that promotes and bring awareness in a context that sexuality can be fluid while acknowledging that tribal nations have their own culture, language and traditions regarding the LGBTQI people.

Over the decades, the evolving identities and awareness within mainstream culture has also impacted a need to make space and incorporate the numerous ethnic concepts and equitable representation of the LGBTQI rainbow spectrum. Within tribal infrastructures, there is a sacred circle that incorporates every identity and spiritual being. This concept is a foundation of community collaboratives and embracing our queer communities as “family.” From this traditional value, the Two Spirit Societies across the nation have impacted their communities and made an intentional effort to reclaim their place in the sacred circle as there has always been a place of stature for Two Spirited individuals. It was upon western colonization that our traditional infrastructures were altered, shamed and tortured into suppressing the beauty of traditional Two Spirit roles in each of our Indigenous cultures. Two Spirit is not just an identity, it is a movement to mend that sacred circle and decolonize a stigma within the non-Native mainstream communities as well as within our own Indigenous nations.

The Portland Two Spirit Society upon fierce advocacy and leadership has pursued to reclaim their traditional role in reinvigorating the protocol of blessing the grounds for Portland’s Pride Northwest’s festivities and Pride Parade. They will also be hosting a “Coming Out Blessing” at the Delta Park Powwow for those spirits who did not receive a blessing when they began living their authentic selves. Prior to the devastating impacts of colonization and the loss of traditional honoring’s, there was once intentional blessings, songs, prayers and honoring’s for those sacred beings who embraced both their masculine and feminine attributes as well as third genders. After an impactful testimony of why P2SS should be offered the opportunity to decolonize pride, the board of directors unanimously voted to uplift and take part in offering a space to revitalize the Two Spirit movement and honor the Portland Two Spirit Society as grand marshal for the Pride Parade.

TOP BACK ROW R-L: LORNE JAMES & HELINA BRAVE HEART • MIDDLE ROW: MONTY HERRON, JONATHAN/PHOBE UMTUCH, DEMIAN DINÉYAZHI • FRONT ROW: BREANA BRAVE HEART, CANDI BRINGS PLENTY, JACK MALSTROM, ALECIA MCCONNELL TIAS

The Portland Two Spirit Society was initiated in 2010 with a handful of members and since has expanded exponentially with many talented members and fierce leaders. It began as a community group of Two Spirit identified folks within Portland and from surrounding rural areas. They represent numerous tribes from across the nation as well as international indigenous nations. The intent for the Portland Two Spirit Society was to create a local social community group as Two Spirit identified people to find a community that bridged their queer and cultural identity. It has now expanded to nationally recognized Two Spirit Society that is advocating on many platforms and currently to “#DecolonizePride.”

“Two Spirit” is an umbrella term that was coined in the early 1990s by Indigenous

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TO SUPPORT PRIDE IS TO SUPPORT COMMUNITY

By Galynne Davis, President of PABA

It is that time again! Time for PRIDE celebrations all across the Pacific Northwest. This time of the year brings us all together as a community, particularly the annual Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade in June, put on by Pride Northwest, Inc. But why wait for Pride to build community and support Pride Northwest? The Portland Area Business Association, or PABA as we are more commonly known as, has a mission to serve our LGBT community and our allies by providing business and leadership development to expand economic opportunities for our membership. At PABA, we have committed to supporting Pride Northwest all year long! PABA will bring our most talented members to the table to help Pride Northwest in all parts of its organization and development. PABA is made up of a broad membership base, many ‘Soloprenuers’ and Member-owned-businesses-from Chiropractors to Graphic Designers, Marketing and Branding Consultants to Large-scale Print Shops-not to mention several large corporate entities from the Hospitality industry to Technology sector.

As you already know, the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade is

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already one of the largest Pride festivals on the west coast. Planning and executing such a large-scale event takes a LOT of skill and expertise to run, let alone grow. Pride Northwest has a dedicated Board of Directors and core group of volunteers who are committed to bringing the city of Portland and our neighboring communities the best-run festival each and every year. We at PABA feel that bringing the best and brightest business community is the next step in aiding in this fabulous organization’s growth and foundation. PABA is proud to partner with and support their efforts, and has committed to bringing our best and brightest forward, to partner with and support Pride Northwest, and to help grow Pride.

As President of PABA I have been blessed to have a wonderful friendship with Debra Porta, and seeing and learning from this amazing woman’s compassion and commitment to our community and its unity, has been spell bounding.

Looking back on what this woman has been able to take this organization from, to now what it has consistently become, it is astounding. I and PABA look forward to working with the new board and continuing to create milestones that we can all benefit from.

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MEET YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS JAMES WALDNER – PRESIDENT James has been an active member of the Portland retail community for over 20 years and has held positions of increasing responsibility in both regional and national brands. Currently, he is flexing his brand-building skills in an operations role with Potbelly Sandwich Works, a recent Portland transplant. James first started volunteering for Pride Northwest in 2012 as the Festival VIP Chair. He then served as Vice-President of the Board for the 2014 & 2015 Pride Seasons. James was recently (Dec 2015) elected President and could not be more thrilled for the opportunity.

Outside of Pride, he is committed to supporting organizations such as The Pongo Fund, Oregon Friends of the Trees, Oregon Food Bank, and the American Cancer Society. You can also find James on the water with his Dragon Boat team (The Stumptown Paddlers), on the Wildwood Trail with his Doberman Max, or working on his Honey-Do list, assigned by his Husband Bobby. james.waldner@pridenw.org

CAMERON DIXON BARRY – VICE PRESIDENT Cameron is an experienced IT professional and software developer. He first began volunteering at the festival grounds each year and was recently elected to Vice President. He brings over 20 years of tech experience to the Pride Northwest team.

Cameron is currently a senior working toward his Bachelor of Science in Computer Sciences at Portland State University. In his spare time, he loves volunteering and when he can put the technology aside, he enjoys being in touch with nature by hiking, camping and wake boarding during the beautiful Oregon summers. cameron.barry@pridenw.org

ANDREW LORIEGO – DIRECTOR, OUTREACH AND EVENTS Andrew has been an active philanthropic member of my community since the age of 17, starting in New Mexico with an honorary seat on my hometown chamber of commerce.

Once he landed in Portland he assisted with years of dedicated service feeding the homeless every Sunday with ‘Potluck in the Park’, and leading as team captain with the annual ‘Cascades AIDS Project’ Art Auction. On his own time he has been known to help those in need one-on-one by taking individuals into his home, helping with what he can.

Though Andrew has developed his professional career in events planning and business, he believes there is one common reason why he and any of us are here on this earth, and it’s simple; it’s to help others. Andrew.loriego@pridenw.org

SARAH VIVIAN – DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS Sarah has been an active member of the Portland LGBTQ community for over fourteen years, serving in many different volunteer capacities with charities and organizations that focus on serving the LGBTQ community and the houseless/homeless populations in the Portland area. Involved with Pride Northwest since the beginning of 2012, she has assisted the board as a core volunteer, concentrating on the Pride Festival VIP program as well as becoming a makeshift talent wrangler. Outside of her nonprofit activities, Sarah is a corporate professional who enjoys a variety of extremely nerdy habits, and spends her spare time with her partner spoiling the world’s fluffiest dog.

Sarah.vivian@pridenw.org

KENTY TRUONG – DIRECTOR, YOUTH OUTREACH AND DESIGN Kenty has been actively involved in the Portland queer community since 2009 where he started as White Knight XV of the Imperial Sovereign Rose Court focusing on fundraising for youth programs such as SMYRC. He continued his focus on youth mentorship in 2011 as Miss Gay Pride, followed by Mr. Gay Portland in 2012 and Mr. Gay Pride in 2014. For the past 3 years, Kenty has been mentoring the queer youth at the Escape Nightclub as the hostess of the all ages drag show. He is thrilled to be joining the Pride Northwest Board with the goal of creating new youth programs and more youth centered activities.

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TRANS PRIDE MARCH Greater Portland Trans Unity would like to invite you to join us on Saturday, June 18th at 2:00 pm in the North Park Blocks, for the 2016 Trans Pride March here in Portland, OR. Last year was a huge success with over 2000 attendees, and we expect it to be even bigger this year!

Part of our focus this year is not just on celebrating being transgender, but also focus on the issues that are important for the trans community. It is a tough world to be transgender in right now (you only need to look at the host of legislation being passed this year in

reaction to our gains in recognition and rights over the last few years). So, rather than asking, we are demanding protections for jobs, housing, access to medical care and legal services.

To help with this goal, this year we will have a booth available in the Pride Waterfront Festival on both Saturday and Sunday. We will be using this space to provide connections with various organizations in the city that can help provide those services, or point you in the right direction to help work for these rights. You can also find out how to get involved with Trans Unity!

So please, come join us Saturday, June 18th at 2:00 pm in the North Park Blocks for the Portland Trans Pride March and show your support for the trans community. Then join us at the Trans Unity booth, to connect with trans supportive organizations, valuable information, and knowledge sharing.

Hope to see you there!

PORTLAND DYKE MARCH 2016 marks the twenty-second year of the Portland Dyke March, a well-loved and time-honored tradition during Pride weekend. Kicking off as the festival closes on Saturday, the Dyke March begins at the waterfront at 6 P.M. and marches the Portland Pride Parade route in reverse, winding down Naito, Davis, and Broadway before ending in the Park Blocks on Burnside. The Dyke March is an inclusive event, advocating for the increased visibility of women who love other women and has grown to include intersex, bisexual, pansexual, and transgender women. Note-this is a foot march. There are no unauthorized motor vehicles allowed in the Dyke March.

Pride Northwest is committed to ensuring that Pride is open and accessible to everyone in our community, regardless of their ability to pay. As one of the largest Pride celebrations without a required gate fee, Pride Northwest depends on community support to Make Pride Happen. Enter Gay It Forward!

Gay It Forward is a simple program that allows everyone, whatever your budget, to support Pride Northwest and to keep Pride accessible to all! Simply donate one (or more!) $7 gate fee. Your donation allows Pride Northwest to cover the expenses of putting on one of the largest Pride celebrations on the West Coast, while also making sure that we are able to make sure that Pride is open to all of our community.

PROUD TO BE YOUR SW WASHINGTON REALTOR Vernon L. Herriott, GRI, and Broker

Coldwell Banker SEAL 2105 NE 129th Street, Suite 105 Vancouver, WA 98686

360-980-1555 (Cell) VLHerriott@yahoo.com

cbseal.com/vernherriott 24 • OFFICIAL PORTLAND PRIDE GUIDE 2016

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DON’T TOUCH MY HAIR The Other Pride

By Samantha L. Taylor

Today’s Pride celebrations are a far cry from their 1969 riotous roots. Admittedly, there was a time when I was embarrassed to say that the names Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera, and Miss Major were completely unknown to me. Just because I didn’t know these Black and Latina trans women existed doesn’t mean that I wasn’t deeply touched by their existence and resistance.

As a Black queer, a non-binary person living out loud, I can’t imagine my life without these powerful women.

They tell us that June is our month, but they don’t tell us why.

These celebrations were birthed out of an uprising: the Stonewall Rebellion. We’re able to celebrate because they fought back.

Let his-story tell it, and you will be spoon fed a whitewashed version of misinformation (see the recent Stonewall flick for receipts). The documentary MAJOR! offers a counter-narrative that reflects more accuracy and insight into the living legend and Stonewall survivor, Miss Major Griffin-Gracy.

Keep a look out for the forthcoming documentary, Happy Birthday Marsha! currently in post-production for another perspective of the Stonewall Rebellion. Also, MARSHA & SYLVIA is yet an additional film that will shine a light on the lives, activism, and deep friendship of Marsha and Sylvia.

Trans women of color and trans femmes have always been and continue to be on the

front lines of movements for LGBTQ equity; whether you choose to see them or not. It may have started with Marsha, Sylvia, and Major, but it sure doesn’t have to end there.

Below is a list of Pride events created by LGBTTQ people of color in the Portland area for our dynamic communities. Stay up do date with the happenings of these fiery events and organizations by checking their respective Facebook pages. Hope to see you out and about!

Rice, Beans, and Collard Greens is an annual Pride dance party for people of color, our friends, and families. Dance it out at Holocene on June 29; all ages until 10 pm P o r t l a n d Tw o Spirit Society are in the planning process; updates coming soon PDX Latino Gay Pride: June 29-31; visit their website for updates, latinogaypridepdx.com Asian Pacific Islander Pride: march with them in the Pride Parade on June 19; come to the BBQ/potluck August 20, location TBD; call the hotline for updates and more info, (503) 877-9379 Portland Black Pride: email portlandblackpride@gmail.com; during the week of June 20-26, PFLAG Portland Black Chapter will host a range of events from film viewings and discussions, to 21+ dancing in honor of The Purple One, to family-centric games and sober outdoor parties!

Samantha L. Taylor is a Black queerdo who’s just trying to survive and thrive in the Pacific Northwest.

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VOICES

EMBODY

In Case Of Emergency

By Sossity Chiricuzio, PQ Monthly

The women in my family have worked in the medical field as support staff for generations. We know so many of the ways the human body can fail, can fracture, and can be forgotten to death. We carry emergency contact info; we keep tabs on each other; we most always have a plan.

For so many queer and trans folks, there is no net but the one we build together. Amazed to still be alive, determined to stay alive, continually convincing ourselves and each other to stay alive, and yet still so rarely prepared for illness or death. How many people do you know that have a will? How about a living will or a power of attorney? Do you know your blood type? How about where the nearest medical facility is, or which direction to head if the mountains blow or the water rises?

So many scary topics. So many unknowable factors, and core subjects, and missing pieces. Let’s get more basic: do you have any water or food supplies stashed? How about a first aid kit or a compass? Do you have a fire extinguisher, or at least a big box of baking soda and working smoke detectors? Have any CPR training? How about your partner(s) or housemate(s) or friends? Do you have a plan on where to meet if something goes wrong?

What if capitalism actually collapses in our lifetime; or “The Big One” hits while we’re still in the middle of trying to deconstruct racism and the binary gender system?

Who is going to come looking for us, and set our broken bones, and give us a drink of clean water?

Probably us. Or the neighbors whose name we never quite learned and who aren’t sure if we just moved in or have been here for years. Or possibly the random kindness of a stranger, though I have to wonder if they have any more of a drive to be prepared than anyone else. Many of us will be completely unhelpful; injured or frightened or surprised at the sudden intrusion of violence into our bubble. Many of us haven’t really thought much about this and don’t want to even now. Some of you are maybe thinking about moving on to the next article because this is a giant bummer. And you’re right, it is.

And it’s already true for much of the world.

From this place of running water and relatively justice minded resources, I think we may feel a false sense of security in our ability to just keep going, exactly as we are, with no significant interruptions to service. It’s how the whole system is set up—to make us feel like we’ll go on forever in the same routine: get up, do the things, make the money, find some joy, eat some food, get some sleep, and repeat.

This is not actually the natural order of things. We are, collectively, so far removed from natural we may not know what parts of it to eat, and which to apply to wounds, and which to stay far away from. We may end

up with nobody who knows how to birth babies or prevent them. We may find ourselves living as mammals who traded all their natural wisdom for chemicals and machines.

I have no desire to hurry this process along, and I remain cynically optimistic that we could possibly, maybe, carefully, dismantle the system without descending into dystopia. Perhaps many of us will keep growing older, cradled in the soft blue glow and the pre-fab and the instant gratification, but I prefer to hedge my bets.

My year long plan includes a seed stash, a household plan, updated triage training, a rain barrel, and at least 3 more books about edible and medicinal plants. My immediate plan is to put new batteries in the smoke detector, update our household emergency page with blood types and allergies, and restock the first aid kit. Somewhere in the midst of all that, I hope to get some training from the local Rosehip Medic Collective. Rosehip Medic Collective is a group of volunteer Street Medics and health care activists who provide first aid and emergency care at protests, direct actions, and other sites of resistance and struggle; and also train other street medics, and put on community wellness training.

I will be interviewing the collective for the July issue of PQ. It’s sure to be full of helpful resources, suggestions, and details on how to take care of yourself, your household, your community, and your city. Until then, here’s a short list of preparedness resources to get you started!

Rosehip Medic Collective: More details about the collective, information about training, workshops, and community involvement, and resources. rosehipmedics.org Street Medic Wiki: A collaboratively edited information resource focused on medical issues, treatment protocols, ethical standards, and historical information of use to street medics. medic.wikia.com NOLO: A law website built to help consumers and small businesses find answers to their everyday legal and business questions; offers software for DIY legal paperwork like wills. nolo.com American Red Cross Preparedness: Free CPR/First Aid, and preparedness classes, supplies, and kits, “Together We Prepare Guide,” and First Aid & Disaster Apps. redcross.org/or/portland/preparedness I don’t propose that we live in fear, rather, I hope we can gather and share resources and skills, and create plans and networks to ensure that we live as long as possible, as well as possible, whatever may come.

Be sure to check out the interview with Rosehip Medic Collective in the July issue of PQ!

End note: If you have questions or topics you’d like me to cover, products you’d like me to review, people you’d like to hear from, or resources to share, please get in touch! sossity@pqmonthly.com

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FEATURE

DIRTY RIVER, A QUEER FEMME OF COLOR DREAMING HER WAY HOME, PART TWO

By Sossity Chiricuzio, PQ Monthly

This memoir by Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha, a Lambda Literary Award finalist, is Nova Star dense and delta soil rich. Full of beauty, sorrow, complicated intimacies, and bone jarring revelations, it took longer to read than any book in my life. I found myself lingering over paragraphs, going over the same chapter multiple times and taking breaks to cry and rock and laugh and breathe; searching backward for similar landmarks, stepping into the changing river, again and again, learning more every time.

PQ: The ways you speak to living with chronic pain, how it changes your options and reality, all the places where you had to push through for the sake of survival were so powerful. How do you maintain your artist life while doing self-care?

Leah: It’s not as simple as this but, if I weren’t chronically ill, I wouldn’t be able to be as productive as I am as a writer. I’ve never worked at one full-time 9-5 job because I can’t do it physically. I figured out ways of making money in short amounts of time through gigs like teaching the pelvic exam, which I was mentored in by other disabled writers. That has meant a lot of hustle and being poor or low income or precariously paid and times of fear, but it has bought me time to write. It’s hard enough to write when you’re able bodied and working all the time- being home in bed a lot, well, there’s more time and room to pull out a notebook. I also want to own that, unlike some friends of mine with chronic illness who have maybe one spoon a day, I have times of relative energy, so things, like teaching online or going to gigs, is more possible for me. But yeah- a lot of times I get asked this question, especially by able-bodied audience members. I tell them that I’m writing in bed on a heating pad and Advil and weed balm while some lentils cook- that I have a disabled writing practice- and I can tell they don’t get it. But my disabled writing practice is a gift.

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PQ: I was struck by the empathy and honesty in your descriptions of your ex, your mother, and those relationships. How did you find the balance between exploring the damage and abuse, holding space for them as fellow survivors and humans, and not falling into the role of buffering and protecting queer masculinity and/or your parent?

Leah: Oh I dunno. Ten years.

Thinking, learning, re-writing, re-writing again. I rewrote sections a LOT in the summer of 2015, in the last edits before publication, because I was really agonizing over how to hit that balance. But I was committed to telling an accurate story- and for me, it is not just my experience but the experience of so many survivors I know that the folks who harm us are also people we have loved.

Some abusers are 1000% monsters, but most are people we care deeply for, who are themselves survivors of trauma. If that weren’t true, it’d be a lot easier. I also just came back to wanting to tell the truth. And my story is of my mom being someone I deeply loved, whose loved saved my life growing up, who also did shit that almost killed me. My relationship with my ex both saved my life and got violent as hell.

There are very few survivor books out there telling stories like that, but they are most of the survivor stories I know.

Keeping in mind why I was doing this helped a lot.

PQ: So many people have this idea of art being a solitary climb towards fame, but as your acknowledgments show so well, getting your book written and published was a collective effort. What suggestions would you make to other unconventional writers hoping to share their stories?

Leah: I don’t know any writer who is queer and/or BIPOC and/or disabled who has performed or gotten published as a writer in that solitary, A Star Is Born kind of way. We succeed when we help each other out, dialogue

with each other, argue with each other, and give each other twenty bucks. I would say, please fight the push that says being a writer is being gaymous or a star and think about it as you being a cultural worker in an interdependent community of other cultural workers, offering things that are beautiful and complicated and useful. I came up in a QTPOC arts community in Toronto where, for me anyway, it felt like we were all coming from working class or poor backgrounds and encouraging each other’s work and hustle. We didn’t want to be the one star, we wanted to be a big galaxy. (Side note: this was partially possible due to some really concrete money and class structural things arts grants in Canada are a lot more accessible than in the U.S.) In Toronto, we were able to access city, provincial and federal grants that were simpler like, hey, here’s $2,000 so you can take two months off your job (this was in the 90s and early 2000s, and I was living off of around $900 a month) and just write. Giving us all smaller and larger amounts of money helped build our confidence in our writing, that we mattered, and bought us the concrete thing we needed- time and money. It’s not perfect, but it helped me a lot. So on a bigger level, I do understand why folks sometimes go for a more individualistic model of being an artist, because when the systemic things that would help level the playing field and pay us for our labor aren’t there, what else are you going to do? So some of what needs to happen are actually figuring out how to pay people for their work, and there are some great models of that, like The Loft in Minneapolis’ POC artist grant program.

To add to that - I would say, think about reaching for the community-based QT/POC arts institutions that are out there, like VONA, Cave Canem, and Kundiman. Learn from them and participate in them and support them.

Think about starting your own performance nights and writing workshops in your kitchens and collectives and tours and community organizations, if there’s a need out there, that’s not being served. Support each other’s fundraisers and review each other’s books and edit and publish and tour with each other. It’s not utopia, there’s going to be conflict, but you can learn from it and fix it. The mainstream literary world will tell you all that matters is getting in the New Yorker, but there are vast, vibrant QT/POC literary worlds out there that you can join by just jumping in, and they’re increasingly making the New Yorker, or even white cis feminism, irrelevant.

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COMMUNITY

PLANNED PARENTHOOD STANDS WITH LGBTQ PEOPLE

By Austin Lea

The past few years have seen extraordinary progress on LGBTQ rights in this country. This progress is rooted in the same principles that underlie reproductive rights: that politicians should not get to decide what you do with your body or what your family looks like, and that rights should not depend on the state you live in.

Despite the recent progress, however, in the past year we’ve seen truly appalling bills and rhetoric targeting the LGBTQ community, especially transgender and gender-nonconforming people. Planned Parenthood believes that these senseless laws invent a nonexistent issue and lead only to discrimination and harassment — and that everyone should be able to use the public restroom that corresponds with their gender identity.

At Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette, we believe that reproductive rights are deeply connected to civil rights for all Americans. We stand with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in the struggle for full equality — many of whom turn to Planned Parenthood for health care, information and education.

This Pride Month, Planned Parenthood is proud to reaffirm our commitment to the rights and health of LGBTQ people. We stand with LGBTQ people, and our doors are open to everyone.

The LGBTQ community faces greater obstacles to obtaining and benefiting from sexual and reproductive health services than non-LGBTQ people. In addition to high rates of stress due to systematic harassment and discrimination — which has been shown to affect physical and mental health — LGBTQ people face low rates of health insurance coverage, high rates of HIV/AIDS and cancer, and high rates of discrimination from medical providers. LGBTQ people of color face even higher risks.

This is why each of our seven health centers throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington welcome LGBTQ patients. To further our commitment to the communities we serve, we recently started offering transgender hormone provision for people 18 and older, in addition to the preventive care we’ve always offered. Hormone provision appointments initially are being offered at our Northeast Portland Health 20 • JUNE/JULY 2016

Center, with hopes of future expansion to our other health centers in Vancouver, Milwaukie-Oak Grove, Beaverton, Salem, and Bend.

Planned Parenthood has always provided preventive health services to people who are transgender, and we’re committed to continually improving care. People get yeast infections, need birth control and need testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases — no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity. We work with every type of body. No exclusions.

Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette also delivers sex education that covers the full range of topics affecting sexual health, and we provide sensitive and accurate information, education and resources on sexual orientation, gender and gender identity to nearly 11,000 youth, parents and men and women of all ages every year. Here in the metro region, the recently launched Adolescents and Communities Together Project brings together community organizations to implement evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention programs for populations at greatest need. Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette, Native American Youth and Family Center, Self Enhancement Inc., Latino Network, Boys and Girls Clubs of Portland Metropolitan Area, Multnomah County Health Department, and schools will equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to make healthy decisions about their sexual health; to be comfortable talking about sexuality with partners, families and peers; and to actualize full engagement as responsible citizens.

We realize that our incredible patients and supporters don’t comprise any one identity, and we’re grateful for the many volunteers, staff, and supporters of all genders and identities who work every day to ensure that people in Oregon and Southwest Washington get the health care and information they need.

Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette will continue to support any future legislative efforts that will allow for greater access to health care and resources for the LGBTQ community in our region. We see you. We care about you. We stand with you — no matter where you live, no matter what.

Austin Lea serves Clark County as the Community Education and Outreach Coordinator for Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette, the largest nonprofit provider of sexual and reproductive health care and youth sex education programs in Oregon and Southwest Washington. For more information visit PPCW.org. pqmonthly.com

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FINDING LEO

VOICES

Of Love and Pride

Leo Bancroft, PQ Monthly

Pride is defiance. Pride is art and beauty.

Pride is my community.

Pride is a celebration of love, human dignity, and self-worth, amidst the noise and nonsense of bigotry and discrimination.

I walk in the Pride Parade as a trans person a faith, with a large group of churches, in defiance of those who would try to turn Christianity into a tool of violence. (For those of you who don’t know me, I have a strong belief in God, but I will never try to get you to share my beliefs or go to church. It is none of my business whether you go to church or believe, and not my job to get you there.

I truly mean that. My goal is to help make churches are safe, welcoming, and supportive of the LGBTQ community.)

I really don’t like to admit that I am a Christian. It has become a bad word. People claiming that label have kicked their kids out onto the street for being LGBTQ. Individuals who profess to follow Jesus stay silent as women (cis and trans) are subject to daily sexual harassment and violence while child poverty skyrockets and people face increasing homelessness. Yet they scream rage to protest a store trying to protect the trans community, a vulnerable population in the bathrooms.

In 1 Corinthians 13:1 it says, “If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.”

Yes. I am over it. I want to throw my hands in the air and give up on the word Christian. I try to remind myself that God loves even these folks, who are afraid, and do not agree with me, but it’s hard. I cannot stand the clang and clamor of those in the church who would condemn me or my LGBTQ community. This is not love. This is not my faith.

And yet…. And yet… People are standing in defiance of this media perception of “Christian”.

Bishop Dave Brauer-Rieke of the Lutheran Church in Oregon released a statement shortly after the May 5th publication of guidelines by the Oregon Department of Education supporting trans youth. http://www.reconcilingworks.org/or-bpsafe-schools/ He writes: “While many of us are still learning about gender identity, and what it means to be transgender, we as the church seek to recognize that child of God, in each and every person, who is worthy of honor and respect. As we learn more about the diverse and beautiful people in our midst, we are moved to help keep all people safe from harm and harassment. With you, we in the ELCA celebrate the LGBTQIA community working with us in this state, recognizing their unique experiences, insights, and understandings.”

Thanks be to God for the faithful witness of church leaders who speak out on behalf of our community.

Bishop Kirby Unti in Northwest Washington similarly spoke out against an antitrans initiative I-1515 in Washington state. http://www.reconcilingworks.org/kirby-unti-wa-i1515/ “As a Christian, I believe in loving our neighbors as ourselves and treating others the way we want to be treated, including those who may seem different from us.

And that’s what my wife and I taught our four daughters. So I’m troubled by I-15I5, which would roll back important non-discrimination protections for our transgender neighbors in Washington. We’re all God’s children— including people who are transgender—and we should all be treated equally under the law.

We must stand together as a community and oppose initiatives like I-1515.”

I am grateful for the love that compels these leaders to take a stand.

On May 16, Reconciling Ministries Network’s Executive Director Matt Berryman and Rev. Ginger Gaines-Cirelli shared the news of 1500 pastors in the Methodist church who are standing by their LGBTQ colleagues as the movement grows in the Methodist church to allow LGBTQ clergy and same-sex weddings. http://www. rmnetwork.org/newrmn/rmn-general-conference-daily-download-may-16/ This is love. This is Christian.

I want to live in the spirit of Pride, and all those who fought for social change. Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, Harvey Milk, Peter Staley, Cesar Chavez, and Martin Luther King Jr. It is where I see Jesus walking.

Fear and prejudice in our country are still real and alive. But so is our pride and our defiance. From the first walk after Stonewall to today, our presence says “NO” to those who would try to silence or demean us. Thank you to the people of faith who join us in that defiance and say “YES!” to love.

2016 will be my fourth year walking in Pride parades. I’ve danced with the Cascade AIDS Project contingent, waved bubble wands with Bishops and walked with hundreds of Lutherans and a 10-foot rainbow cross with ReconcilingWorks and Open Door Ministries, the non-profits working with the Lutheran Church to help them welcome, include, and celebrate the LGBTQ community. I have rejoiced in the beauty, art, and love experienced by so many.

Pride is my community. I cannot wait to see your gorgeous faces! Thank you for reminding me every year of your strength, passion, conviction, and joy.

I asked my mom, Gretchen, why she comes to Pride. “Walking in Pride is walking in solidarity with my son and his wonderful friends, and with those I’ve sung with.

I love them all.” I think this is what Jesus would say too.

You can find welcoming congregations in many denominations here: http:// tinyurl.com/WelcomingChurches

Leo Bancroft is a Lutheran trans man. He volunteers on the boards of Cascade AIDS Project and ReconcilingWorks. You can reach him at leo@pqmonthly.com. pqmonthly.com

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Always have supported LGBT rights, Always will.

COMMUNITY

VIVA TEQUILA PDX RETURNS! Third annual festival to showcase premium craft distillers and vendors

By PQ Monthly Staff

Registration is now OPEN for the EIGHTH Annual Portland Women’s 3x3 Basketball Tournament!

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Pacific Northwest’s premier tasting event returns in 2016 for a second year, showcasing premium producers and vendors of craft tequila.

Viva Tequila PDX, set for Friday, September 2nd, 2016 & Saturday, September 3rd, 2016 at The World Trade Center 121 SW SDalmon Street Portland, Oregon 97204., and promises a weekend of expertly curated education and entertainment to benefit one of the area’s most respected performing arts organizations.

“With tequila enjoying such a worldwide revival in popularity, Viva Tequila PDX is a modern, vibrant idea now more than ever,” explains restaurateur Danny Sandoval, who has spearheaded the event since its 2014 debut. Industry veteran Sandoval knows a thing or two about tequila: His namesake Mexican grills and cantinas – five locations-strong throughout Portland – serve the largest tequila selection in the Northwest, and Sandoval has personally imported 16 select barrels direct from the city that gave the 16th-century spirit its name.

“We aim to provide an informative and fun experience for tequila aficionados and newcomers alike,” Sandoval continues. “Anyone with an interest in tequila, no matter how casual or advanced, will learn something.” Presenting sponsors include industry giants Casa Herradura, Tequila Cazadores, and Jose Cuervo, while the weekend’s lineup will feature niche details like an on-site cigar roller and smoking lounge, live

salsa music, distilling demonstrations and classes, and other special events.

The inaugural event in 2014 boasted 27 vendors plus 3 major sponsors and attracted more than 2,500 attendees, and this year looks to top those numbers, while giving back to the community.

“It’s a priority and honor for us to engage with local organizations,” says Sandoval of the festival, which in 2015 will benefit Milagro Theatre, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that produces Latino theater, culture, and arts education experiences for the community.

“Tequila is something to sip, to savor. It’s refreshing to see the public appreciate the sophistication and artistry of such a traditional spirit in a new, modern light,” Sandoval says. “We’re delighted that Viva Tequila PDX is back to celebrate its renaissance.”

VIVA TEQUILA PDX is a 21-and-over event (valid proof of age required) and runs Friday, September 2nd, 2016 & Saturday, September 3rd, 2016 at The World Trade Center 121 SW Salmon Street Portland, Oregon 97204. Admission is $35 for both days, including Saturday’s VIP tasting, $20 for General Admission either Saturday or Sunday (GA Saturday includes the 9-11 p.m. party, GA does not include the VIP tasting).

Admission includes six (4) tasting tokens for GA, eight (6) for VIP; additional lots of six (5) will be available for purchase for $10 at the event. Tickets and more information are available at vivatequilapdx.com. Like “vivatequilapdx” on Facebook and follow @vivatequilapdx on Twitter for updates.

PRIDE FOUNDATION GIVES MORE SATURDAY, JULY 30, 2016

8TH ANNUAL PORTLAND

WOMEN’S 3X3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT BENEFFITING:

HRC.ORG/PDXBASKETBALL PQ MONTHLY IS HAPPY TO BE A MEDIA SPONSOR FOR THE WOMEN’S 3X3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT! 24 • JUNE/JULY 2016

T h i s ye a r, Pride Foundation is awarding 108 scholarships, totaling $420,000 to students from Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Pride Foundation’s total investment over the past 23 years since the program began has been over 1,500 scholarships and more than $4 million in support for its current and future leaders. This year Pride Foundation awarded 26 scholars from both Oregon and SW Washington with $116,000 in scholarships – a 35% increase from 2015. “…So, amidst all of this, we can’t forget what this moment calls for—it is the same as what has fueled our movement from the beginning: Resistance and Resilience We must resist all efforts to dehumanize LGBTQ people and attempts to keep us from being protected fully under the law.

We cannot allow anyone’s sense of self— who we are, who we love, where we live,

how we live—to be determined by others. At the same time, we must continue to direct the resilience and strength that we have developed, to dreaming of a better world, believing fundamentally in the possibility of that dream coming true, and then never giving up on seeing through our vision until that better world happens.

This is what has gotten us here today—as individuals and as a community. And this is what will carry us forward.” Kris Hermanns, CEO of Pride Foundation shared as they continue the journey of inspiring hope. To read the bios of this year’s scholar’s, please go to our website.

Pride Foundation celebrating 30 years inspires giving to expand opportunities and advance full equality for LGBTQ people across the Northwest. More information about Pride Foundation can be found on our website. pqmonthly.com

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NEWS

RECENT LGBT NEWS VICTORIES AND CHALLENGES IN TRANS RIGHTS On the heels of a similar move by the Oregon Department of Education, the Obama administration issued guidance in regards to the rights of trans students and employees, ostensibly as a response to requests from institutions around the country. The clarifications came after some state policies were planned that would conflict with federal rules and funding. Backlash to the federal guidance has developed into a lawsuit brought by eleven states and officials. The suit, filed in Texas, also includes officials from Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Utah, Tennessee, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

According to the magazine Mother Jones the growing stridence on the issue of trans people’s access to public restrooms could be a reaction to the Supreme Court decision legalizing same-sex marriage in all 50 states, and a well-known legal outfit, Alliance Defending Freedom, is behind many of the bills introduced in state legislatures. ADF, just one year before the Obergefell decision, sent guidelines to school districts with policy recommendations similar to the current bills.

In other bathroom news, after causing a fire storm among conservative and religious groups by eliminating gender-based signs for their toy aisles, Target announced a liberal and sensible restroom policy which engendered a boycott 1.25 million signatures strong as of this writing. The company is not acknowledging the pinch, if any.

Target CEO Brian Cornell said on May 18, “we have not seen a material or measurable impact on our business. Just a handful of stores across the country have seen some activity and have been impacted.”

QUEER MEN AND WOMEN MAKING STRIDES After many months of obstruction, Eric K. Fanning was confirmed as Secretary of the Army, the first openly gay man to hold the position. As Army Times points out, he has proven his previous experience, most recently as acting under secretary, enables him to improve situations he has observed for a long time. A hands-on man, he also told the Army Times that his “first immediate goal is to get out of the Pentagon, get out in the field and interact with soldiers.”

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In a similar sign the growing acceptance of LGBT folk in the armed forces, Vice President Joe Biden commended the openly gay class president at this year’s West Point graduation, saying that before the end of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, “E.J. [Coleman] would have been discharged from the Army, and we would have lost an incredible talent.”

West Point is a coed academy geared towards federal service known for its “academic, military and physical excellence.”

Oregon Governor Kate Brown took an unusual turn in

the commencement speech she delivered to the Class of ’16 at Willamette University, delving into her past to describe the fear she experienced living in the closet as a bisexual.

The remarks fit well into the theme of her speech, which encouraged the graduates to “find a path, help others, have ambition, and work hard.”

EQUALITY AROUND THE WORLD A recent poll ranked Spain as the most LGBT-friendly country. The locals seem to be enjoying it, with 48 million same-sex marriages since they became legal little over 10 years ago. And visitors will get to bask in the rainbow glow as well in 2017 when the country hosts World Gay Pride.

Colombia has started celebrating samesex weddings since a 6-3 Supreme Court decision in April made it legal in the South American country. Fernando Quimbayo and José Ticora were the first couple to take advantage of the provision, and their Cali wedding was profiled by the newspaper El País.

“The Cuban people are prepared to advance themselves,” said Mariela Castro among remarks in support of same-sex marriage. Ms. Castro, an outspoken activist and the daughter of Cuba’s President, recently led the largest LGBT march in the country. Among the special guests for the march was Evan Wolfson, whose organization Freedom to Marry was at the forefront of the movement. “Nearly 70% of the people of Latin America now live in a freedom to marry country. The Cuban people deserve no less,”Wolfson told the Miami Herald.

HEALTH NEWS In a development that may get science closer to a vaccine to prevent HIV, lab studies have verified the efficacy of gene editing to remove the virus from live animals.

Early enthusiasm for the “genetic scissors” technique is tempered by reports that it may also encourage mutation in the virus, adapting and becoming more resistant to known treatment.

The likely candidate to the presidency from the Democratic Party, Hillary Clinton, revealed her proposal to continue the fight against H I V . He r p l a n s include measures for decriminalization as well as support for PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylactic), a medical strategy that greatly reduces the probability of infection. Other key points include facilitating greater research funding and affordable treatment.

As the number of confirmed cases rise in the United States, many questions remain about the Zika virus. Sexual transmission is not among them, however, if a man is involved. Although it remains to be determined whether women can transmit the virus sexually, both heterosexual and homosexual contact with infected men has resulted in Zika contagion. pqmonthly.com

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FEATURE

WAR ON WHISTLEBLOWERS: MANNING APPEALS UNPRECEDENTED 35-YEAR PRISON SENTENCE

By Michaela Whitton, www.theantimedia.org

United Kingdom — One of the world’s most well-known whistleblowers, Chelsea Manning, has launched a formal appeal against her 35-year sentence. Arguing her punishment is “grossly unfair and unprecedented,” the appeal on behalf of Manning suggests her sentence should be reduced to 10 years and claims no whistleblower in American history has been treated as harshly as Manning.

Manning’s decision to initiate one of the largest leaks of U.S. government state secrets ultimately sacrificed decades of her future. In 2009, the 22-year-old army private, then known as Bradley, was serving as a military analyst during the U.S.-led coalition war in Iraq. When transcripts and images included in the top-secret information she was

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handling uncovered disturbing human rights abuses committed by U.S. forces and their allies, she believed the public had the right to know. Hoping to spark public debate on the war, she transferred around 750,000 files to WikiLeaks.

Among the trove was evidence of a dramatically higher civilian death toll in Iraq than was publicly reported.

The leak also included the once classified, now infamous “Collateral Murder” video, which showed the deadly moment a U.S. Apache helicopter gunned down two Reuter’s journalists in Baghdad. After the initial shooting, a group of children and adults arriving on the scene to help the wounded were fired upon by the U.S. military, as well. The official statement on the incident labelled all the adults as insurgents and claimed the U.S. military did not know how the deaths occurred.

A war against whistleblowers As a hero too many and a villain to others, Manning is unquestionably a traitor in the eyes of the U.S government, which insisted she endangered public security by blowing the whistle. She was charged under the Espionage Actin 2013. The whistleblower’s 35-year sentence is one of the harshest in recent U.S. history and prompted lawyers and human rights advocates to take up the case, claiming she

was harshly punished as a warning to others. According to The Intercept, Edward Snowden has cited Manning’s treatment and trial as a key reason for not returning to the United States.

Attorneys for Manning filed the appeal documents on Wednesday to the U.S Army Court of Criminal Appeals in Virginia. Her appeal claims her sentence did not take into account the time she served in “deplorable and inhumane conditions” in confinement before her trial, which it describes as unconstitutional and sufficient grounds for dismissing the charges altogether.

One of Manning’s attorneys, Nancy Hollander, said a war against whistleblowers is being waged in the U.S. — and that Manning’s case represents how the country treats anyone who reveals even a single page of classified information. She added: “We need brave individuals to hold the government accountable for its actions at home and abroad, and we call upon this court to overturn the dangerous precedent of Chelsea Manning’s excessive sentencing.”

This article (War on Whistleblowers: Manning Appeals Unprecedented 35-Year Prison Sentence) is free and open source. You have permission to republish this article under a Creative Commons license with attribution to Michaela Whitton and theAntiMedia.org. Anti-Media Radio airs weeknights at 11 pm Eastern/8pm Pacific. If you spot a typo, emailedits@theantimedia.org.

JUNE/JULY 2016 • 29

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