QNotes, March 27-April 9, 2015

March 27-April 9 . 2015

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March 27-April 9 . 2015

inside

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news & features

news. views. Briefs arts.

6 entertainment.

News Notes: Regional 8 News Notes: U.S./World Briefs 8 Barber at national conference 13 90,000 LGBTs in Charlotte

a&e / life&style 10 14 14 17 18

Faces of the Future Jane’s World Tell Trinity Founders’ Ball slated Q Events Calendar

opinions & views 4 TalkBack 5 Editor’s Note 5 Guest Commentary

Gallup survey finds nearly 90,000 LGBT people in Charlotte metro area First major survey of its kind finds 3.8 percent of Charlotte metro identifies as LGBT, 3.2% in Raleigh metro. Read more on page 13.

March 27-April 9 . 2015

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qnotes connect March 27-April 9, 2015 Vol 29 No 24

arts. entertainment. news. views. goqnotes.com twitter.com/qnotescarolinas facebook.com/qnotescarolinas

contributors this issue Paige Braddock, Matt Comer, Lainey Millen, Jennifer L. Story, Trinity

front page

Graphic Design by Matt Comer & Lainey Millen Photography: Matt Comer Mission:

The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBT and straight ally communities of the Charlotte region, North Carolina and beyond, by featuring arts, entertainment, news and views content in print and online that directly enlightens, informs and engages the readers about LGBT life and social justice issues.

Pride Publishing & Typesetting, Inc., dba QNotes P.O. Box 221841, Charlotte, NC 28222 ph 704.531.9988 fx 704.531.1361 Publisher: Jim Yarbrough Sales: x201 adsales@goqnotes.com Nat’l Sales: Rivendell Media, ph 212.242.6863 Editor: Matt Comer, x202 editor@goqnotes.com Production: Lainey Millen, x205 production@goqnotes.com Printed on recycled paper.

Material in qnotes is copyrighted by Pride Publishing & Typesetting © 2015 and may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent of the editor or publisher. Advertisers assume full responsibility — and therefore, all liability — for securing reprint permission for copyrighted text, photographs and illustrations or trademarks published in their ads. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers, cartoonists we publish is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or photographs does not indicate the subject’s sexual orientation. qnotes nor its publisher assumes liability for typographical error or omission, beyond offering to run a correction. Official editorial positions are expressed in staff editorials and editorial notations and are determined by editorial staff. The opinions of contributing writers and guest columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of qnotes or its staff. qnotes accepts unsolicited editorial, but cannot take responsibility for its return. Editor reserves the right to accept and reject material as well as edit for clarity, brevity.

talkback Comments from goqnotes.com. and facebook.com/qnotescarolinas. Web comments are not edited for grammar or punctuation.

Total inclusion or incremental change?

In addition to our QPoll on Charlotte’s compromise non-discrimination packages, we asked readers to chime in with their own thoughts. Here are two opinions.

During this debate, I have heard people say “Incremental change never works”. Oh really? First we had domestic partnership registries. We got no rights, but we could register in a few places. Then we got a few DP registries that gave a handful of rights.

Later, we got better DPs and civil unions here and there. We eventually got one state that recognized marriage, even though the feds didn’t recognize those marriages. Then we got another state and another. We took what we could get and kept fighting. Sometimes it was two steps forward and one step back, but look where we are now with our “incremental change that never works”. We are on the verge of 50 states with gay marriage, and federal recognition.

We had a chance to get some incremental, trans inclusive ordinance changes in Charlotte.

Even the original proposal was only an incremental change. It didn’t include full equality.

The choice was always about taking a step or two in the right direction, or standing still. And that will always be the choice, because our struggle for equality is one incremental step at a time, here and there, but it’s a march toward full equality for all LGBT people.

—David Lari, March 18 There is no room for debate on the issue of including all people when it comes to civil rights. We stand together as one in the LGBT community. We will never again leave anyone out. There has never been a case when someone is “left out” that we returned and brought them back in. You start down that road and you’ll be the next one left out. 100% agreement is not required in all areas. However, when it comes to our human rights in the LGBTQ community and other communities there are no half measures or incremental steps.

Understand that. Haven’t we learned anything from the battles fought in the 1960s and 1970s, the AIDS crisis, the first bad ENDA bill that left out Transgender people or the last bad ENDA bill that codified religious discrimination specifically against LGBT people into law? We are all in this together. No ands, ifs or buts.

charlotteobserver.com/1166/ a local news partner of The Charlotte Observer

upcoming issues: 04.10.15: Six Months After Marriage Advertising Space Deadline: April 1 04.24.15: Leading Ladies Advertising Space Deadline: April 15

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March 27-April 9 . 2015

What this fight and the fights we see all across the country as we come under attack from the radical and religious right proves beyond a shadow of a doubt is the need for a fully inclusive LGBT Civil Rights Bill. I do understand the inclination of some to view a half step as a step closer. However, that method just does not cut it when it comes to human rights. Half steps will give victories to our enemies-make no mistake they are OUR enemies-and I fear serve to splinter the LGBT community. We are having a hard enough time-at times-getting the LGB(in my opinion and experience mostly the WGM)community to stand up for our transgender brothers and sisters when we are all have a stake in the ordinance. Just proves why we need and must fight for a fully inclusive federal LGBT civil rights bill. It’s 2015 I know we have history on our side and it can be done by going fully forward. No stopping, no baby steps, one great movement for a better and fully equal United States.

— Jim Thompson, March 19 LGB…T? Readers react to our in-depth recap on Charlotte’s non-discrimination ordinances, our March 13 cover story (goqnotes.com/34576/).

For myself, the question remains: Should a legal definition of ‘gender’ be based upon one’s anatomy or self-perception? As much as I would have liked to see the protections adopted, I can understand the opposition’s concern. The bathroom provision was a little too liberal for me, a 10+ year San Francisco resident. Many other important LGBT protections were lost over it.

— Michael van Olden, March 13 Michael, You don’t actually propose the whole ”penis=men’s room, vagina=ladies room” concept do you? Because I’d you do you will have some very masculine transgender men using the restroom with cisgender women.

You may have lived in San Fransisco but that doesn’t mean you know anything about the transgender community. We lost all the protections because some democrats didn’t have the fortitude to do the right thing.

— Paige Dula, March 13 Bill Maher was correct. NC has plenty of smart people, unfortunately they’re surrounded by stupid rednecks. The funny part was Flip

Benham’s reaction. He was shocked, instead of his usual God hates fags rant giving God the credit for the smack down ala Pat Robertson.

— Jimmy Locke, March 13 Thank you! Such an in-depth and terrific article. I, too, hope that we will hold folks accountable for their votes. I agree with Cameron Joyce, it’s outrageous that certain members of the party did not vote for this ordinance. I hope folks will get involved and hold these members accountable. This is an issue which should be important for every Charlottean. I hope we will have changes and see this come back before the Council and this time it will pass–with full equality, protections, and inclusion for our citizens.

— Ray McKinnon, President, Young Democrats of Mecklenburg County, March 13 The mayors’ brief Readers discuss the absence of some mayors from a Supreme Court brief on marriage (goqnotes.com/34537/).

I notice that the Mayor of Charlotte did NOT sign onto the Supreme Court brief. We have a serious leadership problem in Charlotte when it comes to civil rights. Time to make some changes. When the chips were down, our politicians caved, and voted like Republicans. A sad day in Charlotte History.

— Mark Rosen, March 6 I am also disgusted that the Mayor of Charlotte didn’t sign. I know that he is a member of the Mayors for Marriage Equality. Why he didn’t sign this brief is a mystery. I hope to find out!

— Maureen Hendricks, March 6 I am disgusted that both Mark Rosen and Maureen Hendricks would suggest that the failure to sign this petition is indicative of a lack of support for marriage equality. Mayor Dan Clodfelter of Charlotte was one of only 17 State Senators that voted against putting amendment one ( the constitutional amendment banning gay marriage) on the ballot. He didn’t cave in and act like a Republican. In my home county, our openly gay mayor Elic Senter is not one of the signers of this brief. I suspect they either don’t know about the specific brief or they weren’t asked to sign it.

— Douglas Berger, March 10

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editor’s note

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

Questions for city election-time politicking We’re fast approaching April. Spring is fresh upon us, and with the weather increasingly warming up, so will the local political scene. In the fall — September to be exact — voters in Charlotte will head out for their first opportunity to choose possible new leaders for City Council, among other offices.

In the months and weeks before the September primary — where LGBT voters will certainly have the most impact — candidates will be hitting neighborhoods, parties, conferences, local events and other traditional stops along the campaign trail. When they do, be prepared to successfully and adequately discern their positions and stances.

Doing so couldn’t be more important. The stakes for who sits on Charlotte City Council have been raised, especially after the city rejected LGBTinclusive non-discrimination ordinances, including a contentious debate on public accommodations protections. It will be up to LGBT voters to cast their ballots for candidates who can truly carry the torch of equality forward.

Here are a few questions to ponder (or even directly ask the candidates themselves) when you’re interacting with those seeking your vote and your confidence.

1. What is the candidate’s background and do they have any past history or record of supporting the LGBT community or other minority communities?

Who is the candidate? What do they represent? Ask them about their past history or record of LGBT community support. What groups have they volunteered with or financially supported? What causes have they assisted with? When did they begin their personal, outspoken advocacy on LGBT issues — is there a long track record of it or did it just so happen to begin as campaign season did? Keeping in mind the key differences between parties — official platforms of the Democratic and Republican parties are clear as day on which one is LGBT friendly — what political party do they belong to now? Have they always belonged to this party? Or did they recently switch affiliation, and, if they did, why? Are they carrying some lingering anti-LGBT beliefs with them?

2. How does the candidate view LGBT equality?

Does the candidate view LGBT equality as a one-and-done deal? Do they think marriage equality is our sole fight? Or do they have a broader, contextualized understanding of other issues, like discrimination in employment, housing, health care, public accommodations and inclusion in civil, social and religious spheres? All of these issues and more combined are a

more complete, nuanced view of the issues important to LGBT voters.

3. A re they a good ally or a bad listener?

If the candidate isn’t LGBT, we need them to understand what it takes to be a staunch ally for LGBT people’s equality. See if they know how to listen. Do they care to hear about concerns? Are they willing to listen to feedback? Are they open and transparent when receiving constructive criticism on how they can best be a good ally for LGBT people?

4. W ho do they support?

This question is two fold. First, ask if they support full LGB and T equality. As a community, we need to move forward together. We’re kind of like the Three Musketeers and d’Artagnon’s “all for one and one for all.”

Second, what kinds of other leaders or institutions does the candidate endorse or support? Have they thrown their weight behind leaders or institutions that hold anti-LGBT stances or positions? Why? Are they telling the LGBT community one thing and those opposed to our equality another?

5. H ave they evolved or are they still evolving?

For all people — even LGBT people — acceptance (or self-acceptance) can be a long journey. Perhaps the candidate doesn’t believe in full marriage equality; get to the root of their discomfort and ask them why. Perhaps they are still “evolving” on the issue, or perhaps the simple question will reveal a more nuanced view of their thinking. For example, some conservative pastors in North Carolina personally believe marriage is between a man and woman only, yet many of these same pastors have continued to come out forcefully and publicly against government efforts to discrimination against same-gender couples in any way. To me, that shows a healthy separation between personal belief and public policy.

6. A re they open and transparent?

I believe this is one of the most important questions for any candidate — whether we’re talking about LGBT issues or simple government oversight and operation. And it’s especially important given Charlotte’s recent history with a certain former mayor. Is the candidate open to his constituents? Is she honest? Is she communicative? Are they transparent in their community and campaign conversations and in other areas of life and business? After all, if elected, they will sit on City Council to serve you — not themselves, not private interests. It’s best to get a sense of where their loyalties lie — themselves or the public — before entrusting them with a precious, sacred vote on behalf of thousands of citizens and residents. : :

guest commentary

by Jennifer L. Story :: guest contributor

We can’t leave anyone behind There seems to be an undercurrent of anger towards John Autry and LaWana Mayfield by some within the local LGBT community for their votes against the gutted non-discrimination ordinance rejected by City Council on March 2. They are upset that these Council members voted “no” on partial protection for the LGB community at the expense of the transgender community. The critic’s argument is that some progress is better than none, and their votes mean that they are not the allies we thought they were. I would argue that their vote to strike down this bastardized ordinance really

I don’t know 1%

means that they are the kind of political allies we need; totally inclusive and unwilling to compromise on matters of human rights.

If people in the LGBTQ community want to be upset with anyone, they should be upset with the Council members who were allies until they got scared. Be upset at the ones willing to “hold their nose” to pass a crappy ordinance because they knew they’d have the votes for that. I don’t know

see Guest Commentary on 16

QPoll Yes 38%

We asked online readers: Should Charlotte have passed a compromise non-discrimination ordinance? Here’s how they voted.

No 61%

No, we must fight for full LGBT equality (61%) Yes, some protections are better than none (38%) I don't know (1%)

Want to participate in future online polls and have your vote and comments featured in our print editions? Head online to goqnotes.com/to/qpoll/ for our latest polls.

Results as of 4 p.m., March 20, 2015

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen & Matt Comer

Annual walk on horizon

CHARLOTTE — The 2015 AIDS Walk Charlotte will be held on May 2, 10 a.m., starting at Gateway Village Promenade, 800 W. Trade St. This annual event raises monies for the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN) so that they can provide compassionate care, education and leadership development or those affected by HIV/AIDS. Participants will traverse Uptown Charlotte along a two-mile route. Estimates by organizers top the 2,000 mark for 2015.

Adults, children and pets are all welcome to join in the celebration.

Individuals and teams, as well as those who wish to join an existing team, can visit the event website to register.

Check-in and registration will be at 8 a.m., followed by a morning program and award at 9:30 p.m. The closing ceremony will take place at 11 a.m.

Awards and recognition go to Top Community Fundraising Team; Top Corporate Fundraising Team; Top Congregational Fundraising Team; Jordan Mitzel Award (Top Individual Fundraiser); Best Youth Team; and Glam Squad Award (Best Team Spirit).

Fundraisers receive points for their efforts until April 29 at which time they may exchange them for prizes based upon points collected. Included are an official AIDS Walk Charlotte T-shirt, “Be Brave” water bottle, I + CLT baseball cap, collectable souvenir pin, 14-karate gold plastic crown, social media shout out and express check in.

Donations are also being accepted. And, many corporations are participating in a matching gifts program. The list is available online.

Warm-up entertainment will be provided by Queen City DanceOut. Kiss 95.1 FM, Wells Fargo, WPEG 98 FM and WCCB are the presenting sponsors. info: aidswalkcharlotte.org.

— L.M.

Charlotte Church hosts gathering

CHARLOTTE — The LGBT Fellowship will hold a meet and greet on March 29 following worship services at Myers Park Baptist Church, Heaton Hall, 1900 Queens Rd. This quick and casual gathering is for church members and guests.

Coffee and sweet treats will be served. info: mpbconline.org.

— L.M.

Benefit slated for boaters

CHARLOTTE — Buff Faye will host a drag brunch to benefit One World Dragon Boat on April 12, 12 p.m., at The Bar @ 316, 316 Rensselear Ave. All tips received by Buff Faye will be contributed to One World. Additionally, Drag in a Bag will also provide another opportunity to raise funds for the boaters. Two couples will be selected from the audience for participation.

They will be attired in drag and work the room collecting tips along the way. All monies will then go to One World. info: oneworlddragonboat.org. bufffaye.com.

— L.M.

Parents group welcomes author

CONCORD — PFLAG Concord/Kannapolis will host Statesville, N.C., author Robert BeldingMiller at its meeting on April 14, 7 p.m., at Central United Methodist Church, 30 Union St. N.

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He will speak on community from the LGBT perspective. Included will be the definition of community (fetishes, sexuality, identity, etc., as well as common ground), sexuality as it applies to being gay or lesbian, bi-sexual myths and reality, understanding what it means to be transgender, identity as an asexual person and more.

In late 2014, Belding-Miller published his non-fiction book, “Unique,” under the pen name Nameless Brother.

He shares some of his life’s adventures, while finding himself and gaining self acceptance. He also goes into detail about gay issues, being homeless and survival.

The book in paperback format and ebook is available online through Amazon and other retailers. info: ckplag@gmail.com.

— L.M.

Film fest shares lineup

CHARLOTTE — The 7th Annual GayCharlotte Film Festival will be held from April 23-26 at Theatre Charlotte, 501 Queens Rd. Kicking off the event is a screening of “To Be Takei” on April 23 at 7 p.m.

Other films with dates and times are: April 24, “Tiger Orange,” 7 p.m., and “My Straight Son,” 9 p.m.; April 25, “The Circle,” 4 p.m., “Tru Love,” 7 p.m., and “Out in the Night,” 9 p.m.; and April 26, “The Dog,” 2 p.m., “Boy Meets Girl,” 4 p.m., and “Eat With Me,” 7 p.m.

Tickets are $10/at the door, $8/online and

March 27-April 9 . 2015

$5/Charlotte Film Society members, students and seniors. info: charlottelgbtfilm.com. facebook.com/gaycharlottefilm/events.

— L.M.

Date set for prom

CHARLOTTE — Time Out Youth Center, 2320 N. Davidson St., will hold its ’90s inspired prom, “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” on April 24, at the Van Landingham Estate, 2010 The Plaza.

Attendees will be able to dance, hear music and more. The event is drug and alcohol free.

Tickets are $5/advance, $10/at the door.

Call 704-344-8335 for more details. info: timeoutyouth.org.

— L.M.

PFLAG group to host social

CONCORD — PFLAG Concord/Kannapolis and Carm’s Café will host a PFLAG Connections Social and fundraiser on April 25, 6 p.m., at Carm’s Café, 42 Union St S. Learn more about local support for the LGBT community and enjoy appetizers, drinks, music and a silent auction.

Contributions and silent auction items are being sought. Email Joan Gale, president, at ckpflag@gmail.com for more information.

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased from PFLAG members before the event or via email at ckplag@gmail.com.

— L.M.

Card benefits youth

CHARLOTTE — Campus Pride has announced a special offer to sign up for an equality Visa card from now until April 30 as part of its Headstart campaign.

A contribution of $25 will go to LGBT youth for every new cardholder. And, one percent of every purchase goes to lifetime LGBT youth support.

The sign up code is 2012.

This initiative is part of Campus Pride’s fundraising effort for GiveOUT Day On May 21. It hopes to subscribe 200 or more during the project.

As part of the outreach for the ‘Headstart’ campaign, Campus Pride will also be providing money management tools and resources to help cardholders learn how to best utilize credit cards, organizers shared.

Additionally, the initiative provides for a giving platform to individuals from within the LGBT community, as well as straight allies and businesses, through which they can support LGBT non-profit organizations of their choosing. info: campuspride.org.

— L.M.

Triangle Youth group holds celebration

DURHAM — The NC Queer Youth Power Coalition will hold its Queernival on March 28, 12 p.m., at Calvary United Methodist Church, 304 East Trinity Ave. The event is a southern celebration of youth liberation from homophobia, racism, sexism and all other forms of oppression where youth of all ages, adult allies and non-profit organizations engage in games, food and performances to educate the community about issues that impact minority youth, organizers said.

Participants are able to throw pies, play, dance, cre-

ate art and more. The event features a bouncy castle, an open mic drag, performances by youth musicians, while enjoying raffles, auctions and other activities.

Youth-led organizations, such as high school Gay-Straight Alliances, will staff booths to host carnival games, run contests, serve homemade treats or promote an issue. Any group is invited to contribute flyers, pamphlets, zines, stickers or anything else to the networking table. Proceeds from Queernival booths will support local GSAs and other youth-led initiatives.

The NC Queer Youth Power Coalition is a collaboration of QORDS, Youth Organizing Institute and iNSIDEoUT/Upsidedown.

Organizers call it a transformative collective for the community. info: insideout180.org. ncqueeryouthpower.org. qords.org. empoweryouthnc.org.

— L.M.

Youth group seeks summer funds

DURHAM — INSIDEoUT is asking local businesses to help in the organization’s project to raise $6,000 to send eight LGBT teenagers to the Smoky Mountains this summer for Outside the Lines, an adventure-filled week of hiking, canoeing, friendship, leadership and activism held from June 21-28, said organizers.

The campaign theme is “Transcending Barriers.” Outside the Lines brings together youth from a variety of class, race and other backgrounds to promote cross-cultural connections and awareness. Participants will return to the Triangle ready to transform their schools and Gay-Straight Alliances into more inclusive, diverse communities and to push back against North Carolina’s harmful legislative agenda from the front lines, organizers added.

Giving level suggestions include: $50, one night of camping; $100, one youth’s meals for the week; $180, canoe trip for one; $500, one youth’s participation for the week; $1,800, expenses for a 15-passenger van and gas between Durham and the event site.

Contributors receive incentives showcasing their businesses.

Send donations to Insideout, 1303 Clarendon St. B, Durham, NC 27705, made out to Insideout with Outside the Lines in the memo line. Contributions can also be made online.

To learn more, email Robert Wells at rewells318@gmail.com or Amy Glaser at inside outamy@gmail.com. info: insideout180.org.

— L.M.

‘T’ awareness focus for meeting

RALEIGH — SAGE Raleigh will hold a Lunch and Learn on April 2, 12 p.m., at the LGBT Center of Raleigh, 324 S. Harrington St., in observance of Transgender Month of Awareness.

The Trans* Allies Bring Your Lunch and Learn will offer ways to support the “T” in LGBT. Trans community trainers from the local area will present “Trans* Allies and Advocacy.” The program will be a combination of education and a discussion of ways allies

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can be supportive of the Trans* community.

Attendees are asked to bring something to eat during the session.

The following week, on April 9, 11:30 a.m., SAGE Raleigh’ Lunch and Learn will host Scott Waterhouse from Resources for Seniors who will share information on services available from the nonprofit. RFS is aware that the LGBT community is under-served and has reached out to help fill the gaps.

Attendees are asked to RSVP by April 7 so that organizers can plan accordingly for lunch service. Email sage@lgbtcenterofraleigh. com to reserve a spot.

On April 17, 7 p.m., at the center, SAGE Raleigh and The Allies Group of the LGBT Center of Raleigh will join together for a panel discussion with community youth. Topic is “What it’s like to grow up LGBT in today’s world?”. info: lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.

— L.M.

CMF schedules host party

RALEIGH — The Crape Myrtle Festival will hold its annual host party on April 11, 7 p.m., at the home of Chris and Jessica Gotwalt, 401 E. Jones St. Each year a supporter of the festival opens its home to the organization and its guests. The gathering is used to raise funds for Crape Myrtle and is often the most successful fundraising venture of the calendar.

In fact, at the one event, it secures as much contributions as it does throughout the year.

The festival supports organizations across the state that handle those affected by HIV/ AIDS. It provides funds for expenses, awareness, prevention, testing, counseling and a variety of other services.

Catering is supplied by Donovan’s Dish.

Attendees are also welcome to enjoy drinks, as well as the camaraderie during the celebration.

Attendees are asked to purchase their tickets at the door by making host level contributions that begin at $150, organizers said.

Host level entitles the benefactor to perks beyond entry to the event. More information about this is available by emailing info@ crapemyrtlefest.org. info: crapemyrtlefest.org.

— L.M.

Fest around corner

RALEIGH — Out! Raleigh will be held on May 2, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., at City Plaza and Fayetteville St. between City Plaza and Martin St. This outdoor festival showcases entertainment, vendors and more in celebration of the LGBT community and its allies in a family-friendly atmosphere. It is a major event sponsored by the LGBT Center of Raleigh, 324 S. Harrington St. It is currently accepting vendor applications. Deadline is April 1.

Children will be able to do face painting, balloon twisting and more in the KidsZone while adults are treated to entertainment by a capella group The Kinsey Sicks, indie rockers Kurtzweil, singer Shadina, musicians Dylan Michael & The Family, recording artists Sam

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Saulsby Trio, Common Woman Chorus, eclectic musicians Army of Dog, Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus and DJ Pancakes.

Volunteers are also being sought.

Visit the website to learn more.

Raleigh Little Theatre’s cast also joins in the celebration while it performs selections from “Hedwig and the Angry Inch.” The award-winning musical will also be in residence at the theatre from May 1-17 at the GaddyGoodwin Teaching Theatre, 301 Pogue St. Performances are at 8 p.m. on May 1-2, 7-9, 14-16, with matinees at 3 p.m. on May 3, 10 and 17.

Tickets are adults/$24, seniors, students/$22 and first Sunday/$13 for all. info: outraleigh.org. lgbtcenterofraleigh.com. raleighlittletheatre.org.

— L.M.

Anti-violence initiative launched

RALEIGH — The Gay Christian Network has launched its #LiveLoveOut movement to counter violence and dehumanizing treatment that harms LGBT people across the world every day, organizers said. It was announced at its conference in January.

Organizers said that “youth homelessness, bullying, abuse and hate crimes don’t represent the Gospel,” and that they wish “live out Christ’s love in our communities, churches, and families…through #LiveLoveOut” in order to “stand united in making our Church the refuge it is meant to be.”

Their hope is to raise $150,000 to aid in the fight against global issues pertaining to mistreatment of LGBT individuals.

The funds will be used to educate “influential” leaders and become connected with larger organizations. It will also allow the Gay Christian Network to increase their resources in order to spread the #LiveLoveOut message.

At press time, they had collected roughly $90,000.

In other news, the organization is searching for a development director to oversee growth strategies and fundraising. The position is for the Raleigh office, but could be handled remotely with the right candidate.

Those who apply should have a Bachelor’s degree, training in fundraising and development, experience with non-profits, strong communication skills and familiarity with donor management software. Visit the website for further information and description.

A cover letter, resume, references and salary requests are required for consideration and should be sent to jobs@gaychristian.net. info: gaychristian.net.

— L.M.

Western LGBT conference approaches

ASHEVILLE — The Campaign for Southern Equality hosts their annual LGBT* in the South Conference from April 17-18 at the Diane Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Sq. Long-time civil rights and LGBT movement activist Mandy Carter will be the keynote speaker.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about how to better serve the LGBT community. Also, a plethora of workshops are available. Subjects cover such topics as the law, religion, media, culture, fundraising, trans inclusion, healthcare and much more.

see Carolinas News Notes on 9 March 27-April 9 . 2015

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N.C.’s Barber addresses national gathering of LGBT journalists Barber: We need LGBT community to be engaged

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

(l-r): Matt Foreman of the Evelyn & Walter Haas Jr. Fund with the Rev. Dr. William Barber II, convening organizer Bil Browning and Jen Christensen, NLGJA board chair.

PHILADELPHIA — The leader of North Carolina’s NAACP and founder of the state’s Moral Monday movement shared a message of collaboration and fusion politics at a conference of LGBT journalists, editors and bloggers from around the country in mid March.

The Rev. Dr. William Barber II was the keynote speaker at the opening reception of the LGBT Media Journalists Convening on March 13. The event was held at Philadelphia’s Comcast Center.

Convening organizer Bil Browning said Barber’s opening keynote set the tone for a weekend focused on building bridges and equipping local, state and national LGBT journalists with the tools they need to better cover their communities.

Barber’s role in the African-American Civil Rights Movement and North Carolina’s Moral Monday movement also provided context and lessons for those at the event.

“With Moral Monday,” Browning explained, “what he has done is bring together

various civil rights priorities and shown his community that there is a commonality and that working together is what actually moves a message. It’s bigger than just one small portion of the pie. You have to be able to take a fork and eat the whole thing.”

Barber told the journalists gathered that it was time for progressives to reclaim ground lost to conservatives. The opposition he said is neither religious nor right, noting that progressives have ceded moral language to conservatives.

Barber told qnotes — this writer attended the conference — that fusion politics and coalition building has been necessary to counter the negative effects of North Carolina’s rightwing leadership. To move forward, communities of all stripes must unite and move forward together.

“I define it less as a coalition and more as fusion, not even populist, because in the South, populism was often racist populism,” Barber said after his keynote. “The notion is, and [Charlotte’s] Bishop Tonyia Ralws has said this, that we need the LGBT community to be fully engaged. In other words, just like we fought for the pushback for Amendment 1, we need the LGBT community fighting with us against voter rights suppression.”

Opponents to equality are all intersected, Barber said.

“All the forces promoting anti-labor, antiminimum wage, anti-Medicaid, anti-voting rights are all the same forces which are antiLGBT,” Barber said.

Barber’s presence at the national media convening, running March 13-16 and presented by the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists

Association and sponsored by the Evelyn & Walter Haas Jr. Fund, which covers the cost of attendance for those journalists invited to attend, was part of a weekend-long message, said Browning.

As the LGBT community looks past a decade’s worth of marriage equality work it is beginning to ask, “So now what?”, Browning explained.

“For a long time, the debate over marriage and amendments and all those discussions have overwhelmed the LGBT community and LGBT media,” he said. “So much media has been taken up by the conversation around marriage that a lot of times, journalists are struggling to figure out what the next priority will be and what they should be talking about.”

Topics of the weekend conference included a primer on anti-LGBT “religious liberty” laws, a discussion of bisexuality, a panel discussing race and gender and a discussion of HIV-related story writing and news coverage.

Additionally, journalists had the opportunity to visit Philadelphia’s John C. Anderson Apartments, billed as a first-of-its-kind affordable housing complex for LGBT seniors.

This year’s LGBT Media Journalists Convening was the sixth such conference held for LGBT journalists. Other host cities for the conference have included New York City, San Francisco, Houston and Washington, D.C. This was the second visit to Philadelphia.

Past conference themes have included immigration, LGBT youth support and suicide, elections, seniors and transgender issues, among others. : :

news notes: u.s./world.

Ted Cruz seeks to overturn LGBT-inclusive D.C. laws WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) on March 18 filed a resolution seeking to overturn the District of Columbia’s 2014 Human Rights Amendment Act that protects LGBT students from discrimination at D.C. based religious schools.

A second resolution would upend D.C.’s Reproductive Health Non-Discrimination Amendment Act of 2014, which prevents employers from taking action against workers based on their decision to use birth control or seek an abortion.

The Washington Post reports: “The measures, known as disapproval resolutions, could in theory halt local laws passed last year by the D.C. Council and signed by the city’s mayor. But to do so, Cruz’s measures would require support of both chambers of Congress and the signature of President [Barack] Obama. Although rarely successful at stopping D.C. laws, the resolutions are often more ef-

fective politically, giving members of Congress legislative records to build bona fides with constituent groups that feel strongly about the District’s often liberal stances on social issues.”

Cruz, who was joined by Oklahoma Sen. Jim Lankford in sponsoring the resolutions, said “The D.C. Council is attempting to force religious institutions to provide services, make employment decisions, or participate in activities that directly violate their faith.”

Under the Home Rule Act, all legislation passed by the D.C. Council must first be transmitted to Congress for a period of review. If both houses pass a resolution of disapproval that is signed by the President, the legislation in question will not become law.

Unless the 114th Congress acts, the tentative enactment date of the bills is April 17. : : — LGBTQ Nation (lgbtqnation), a qnotes media partner

Ted Cruz at the Values Voter Summit in 2011. Photo Credit: Gage Skidmore, via Wikimedia. Licensed CC.

QUICK HITS ———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————— A dismissed Navy veteran is bringing attention to the experiences of transgender servicemembers in the U.S. Armed Forces. video: bit.ly/1B71cRc

Puerto Rico’s government has said it will stop defending the commonwealth’s ban on samegender marriage. more: bit.ly/1EyOL58

Florida’s state legislature has advanced a proposal that would ban transgender people from using the restroom that matches their gender identity, making restroom use a misdemeanor. more: bit.ly/1bivxXO

Peru rejected a civil unions bill after a leading Catholic bishop lashed out at a gay lawmaker who drafted the legislation, calling him a “faggot.” more: bit.ly/1FKWmPP

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news

Carolinas News Notes continued from page 7 Cost for the conference including fees is: full/$21.99, $74.49/N.C. attorney conference and $16.74 each/Friday and Saturday.

A full list of workshops, keynote speaker bio, travel and lodging information, as well as continuing legal education for N.C. attorneys credit requirements are available online. info/registration: lgbtinthesouth.com.

— L.M.

South Carolina Affirmative biz part of initiative

SPARTANBURG — Upstate Pride SC has launched a pilot of its Friendly Business Initiative during early March.

Businesses with non-discriminatory, LGBTfriendly practices who choose to participate will welcome all sexes, genders and orientations, organizers shared.

The initiative aims to place a small sticker on storefront windows and doors that indicate businesses that protect the safety of LGBT consumers.

Participating businesses must comply with the initiative’s agreement expectations. Display of campaign stickers, consent to be included in an online directory and treating customers equally are among issues covered.

The sticker marking businesses as a “friend” to the Upstate Pride community is designed to be recognizable to supporters, but innocuous enough to retain customers who are not supporters, Upstate Pride said.

Interested parties should contact Upstate Pride President Keith Keppley at president@ upstatepridesc.org for more information. info: upstatepridesc.org.

— L.M.

Counseling from Webster University. He has involvement in both statewide and local LGBT organizations and has served as a volunteer with We Are Family, raised money for Trans* Love Fund, designed the SC Equality license plate and serves as the CEO and vice chair of the Charleston Pride Festival. Glenn is employed at Blackbaud, Inc., where he works directly with several national non-profit organizations.

Glenn replaces Amy Garbati who has moved to Florida to accept a job there “During all my years with non profits, I have to say she has been one of the most effective board members I have had the pleasure of working with,” Board Chair Jeff Ayers said of Garbati. “Her leadership on our board and as chair of TransAction has been an inspiration to us all. Amy gave hope and a voice to the transgender community that it has not had. Her accomplishments speak for themselves.” info: scequality.org.

— L.M.

Campus Scene Academy moves to Queen City

CHARLOTTE — The 9th Annual Campus Pride Summer Leadership Academy will be held from July 14-19 on the University of North Carolina-Charlotte campus.

see Carolinas News Notes on 16

Activist org transitions

COLUMBIA — SC Equality’s board of directors has announced that Chase Glenn has joined its team and will chair the TransAction Committee.

Glenn, who lives in Charleston, graduated from Belmont University, as well as having received his Master’s in

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Faces of the Future Young LGBT Professionals look toward a future, better community

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

W

elcome to qnotes’ third annual feature profiling local and regional LGBT young professionals working to make a difference in their community and looking toward a future, better community. Our featured profiles this year include non-profit staffers, a student, activists and more. All under 35 years old, some of our young professionals have already made names for themselves as community leaders. Others are just beginning their journey into leadership — be it in business, the arts or the community. Together, they all represent the best and brightest for our collective future. Our theme this year, “Faces of the Future,” represents what these young leaders can bring to the table today, tomorrow and in the decades ahead, and that’s why we thought it was fitting to weave that sense of history and future into our cover photo and other artwork this issue.

From the days of Captain Jack and the Mecklenburg Declaration to the bustling metro we call home today, our history has been replete with examples of courageous young leaders doing their best to shape a better future for all.

Bertshalyn Bailey 30, Lesbian African-American, Female Education: B.A. Business Administration and Sports Management, Pfeiffer University Hometown: Tulsa, Okla.

Living in Charlotte for eight years, Bertshalyn is a musician with her own band, MojoMuzik Live, playing cover songs and original music. She’s also in the final stages of launching her own business, Essential Chord Progression, which will provide downloadable tutorials for anyone to learn to play their favorite songs or for aspiring musicians wanting to learn the essentials needed to play the piano. Outside of work, Bertshalyn leads praise and worship in a local park for the local homeless. She sings at a local nursing home near where she lives and is looking forward to volunteering her musical gifts with Time Out Youth this summer. Prior to her music career, Bertshalyn worked for four years at the CharlotteMecklenburg Police Department and for two years at the State Employees’ Credit Union. “One of the most pressing issues that I see in our LGBT community is the lack of support that we appear to have for one another,” Bertshalyn says. “It is as if we are divided and keep ourselves segregated, even within our own community. I have noticed this among community organizations and have witnessed it at special events throughout the city. Nationally it appears that this may be a common issue. My wish is that we will be able to unite as a community, knowing that we will not always agree or share the same vision, but it would be an ideal situation for us to work together and grow this community. My contribution to help mend, build, and grow is through music. The light of unity is a powerful thing, and music incites so many emotions. My goal is to bring the creativity of sound and music to encourage healing in this community.

Alone we can do many things, but together we can do so much more.

Finn Barton 23, Straight White, Transman Education: B.A. Media Arts, University of South Carolina Hometown: Easley, S.C. Finn Barton moved to Charlotte in July 2014, after interning with Campus Pride since December 2013. After his graduation from the University of South Carolina, he took a summer fellowship with Campus Pride and continues to work with them as media and programs assistant. One of his favorite experiences with Campus Pride was working as a videographer for the group’s annual week-long summer leadership academy, being hosted in the Queen City this year. “The most pressing issue in the

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local community is the lack of trans protections,” Finn says. “I found the lack of trans allies and gross mischaracterization of trans folks rather disheartening with the ordinance discussions a few weeks ago. There’s still a lot of room to grow in the national community as well, with understanding, empathizing and fighting for trans folks. Trans rights are important to me for personal reasons, but I believe in fighting for the rights of all of the minority groups within our own queer community. I’ve also found that helping those within our community get access to higher education is one of the best ways that we can empower our community. I love the work that I get to do with Campus Pride because I get to see firsthand the positive difference we are making in the future of our community.”

Mike Blackwelder 30, Gay Caucasian, Male Education: B.A. Business Administration, Campbell University; MBA and Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management, UNC-Charlotte Hometown: Locust, N.C. For four years, Mike Blackwelder has called Charlotte his home, were he works as the chief advancement officer of Safe Alliance, a local non-profit that provides support for those in crisis, especially sexual assault/ rape and domestic violence survivors. The group even has a support group focused on the needs of LGBT survivors of sexual assault. He’s worked for the group for three years and was promoted to his current position in January. He also serves on the board of directors of Hearts Beat as One Foundation and the Charlotte affiliate of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

“I think the most pressing issue both locally and nationally is acceptance, both within and outside of our community,” Mike says. “As we’ve seen with recent marriage laws nationally, and LGBT rights locally, acceptance from others is a critical issue for our community. We are making progress, but we must continue efforts to bring about acceptance and equality for everyone.

Within our community, we have to increase acceptance of other orientations and identities without judgment or stereotypes. If we want the outside community to accept us, we have to accept each other first.”

Rebby Kern 26, Bisexual Multi-racial, Female Education: B.A. Communications, Public Relations and Advertising, La Sierra University Hometown: Los Angeles and Seattle Rebby Kern has called Charlotte home for a year and a half now, moving after college from Riverside, Calif., to work with Campus Pride as its Media, Communications and Programs Manager. Her first introduction to the Campus Pride was as a student at the group’s annual summer leadership academy. Her work with Campus Pride is her first full-time position after college. Rebby also works as the director of youth interests for Seventh-day Adventist Kinship International, a group for LGBT Seventhday Adventists based in San Francisco, and she co-founded the Intercollegiate Adventist GSA Coalition with Eliel Cruz, a student at another Seventh-day Adventist college, activist and columnist. “I don’t believe there is enough action around trans issues,” Rebby says. “These issues are coming further into light but there needs to be more action to support this community and advocate for needs unmet. Through Campus Pride we are able to address these issues within the higher education sector. This conversations needs to always include non-binary individuals who are often left behind or unseen.

These issues are important because the L and the G have been in the forefront for so long and marriage has been met (almost

completely) on a national level. We are already working beyond marriage to see a more inclusive society. There’s work to be done.”

Crystal Monique Richardson 30, Lesbian Black/African-American, Female Education: B.A. French and Political Science, UNC-Charlotte; J.D., Charlotte School of Law Hometown: Danville, Va. Crystal Richardson has lived in Charlotte for 25 years, currently working and volunteering in a variety of roles for the LGBT community and other communities. At work, she’s the director of advocacy and outreach for Equality North Carolina, a position she’s held since January 2015. She was first hired by Equality North Carolina in April 2014. Crystal is also an attorney and she volunteers as a guardian ad litem. In the community, she’s the secretary for the Mecklenburg LGBT Political Action Committee, political chair for HRC North Carolina and a member of ACLUCharlotte. Crystal believes the local community needs to begin “working together on the intersectionality of our issues,” and, nationally, “focusing on the greater LGBT community,” like issues affecting people of color, faith issues, economic status and other intersections.

Christina Stritzinger 26, Non-Straight Female Education: B.S. Business Administration, University of South Carolina Hometown: Originally from Delaware, but spent more than half her life in South Carolina After attending high school in Hilton Head and later graduating college in 2010, Christina Stritzinger moved to Charlotte, where she works at Bank of America as vice president and process design consultant in the bank’s business banking division. There she works on process improvement for the bank’s wholesale credit lending technology team. Moving to Charlotte, Christina first got involved with Habitat Young Professionals, where she’s a past chairman and a board advisor. She also volunteers as a golf coach for First Tee of Charlotte and serves as the director of advancement for Hearts Beat as One Foundation. She’s also on the leadership team for Bank of America’s Carolinas chapter of the LGBT Pride Employee Network. Christina thinks local issues of importance center on the understanding of legal protections for LGBT employees.

Christina isn’t fond of labels. “I don’t usually identify with a specific term,” she says, “and prefer to just say ‘not straight’ since I dislike labels. If I had to pick one, I’d say bisexual.” Her views on the issues affecting the LGBT community focus in on local and workplace protections. “It’s very possible that you could be legally married to someone of the same sex, but get fired the next day for your sexual orientation after sharing your wedding photos on social media,” she says. Nationally, she believes legal protections for LGBT people become more complicated when crossing state lines, as each state has different protections available.

Ryan Wilson 31, Gay White, Male Education: B.A. Architecture, Clemson University; Master of Education, University of South Carolina; Diversity Leadership Institute Fellow, Furman University Hometown: Baltimore, Md. Ryan Wilson moved to South Carolina in 2001 to attend college, later moving to Columbia where

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he’s lived since 2006. In the time he’s been in the Palmetto State, Ryan has devoted a great deal of his volunteer and professional work to the LGBT community. Currently, he’s the senior regional field organizer for the Southern United States at the Human Rights Campaign. Previously, he’s worked or served as: co-president of Clemson’s GSA, six years in various roles with SC Pride and the Harriet Hancock LGBT Center, a board member for South Carolina’s Fair Housing Center and other roles including a stint as executive director of SC Equality. He joined HRC’s field organizing department in August 2014, working with other staff to monitor legislation and win campaigns in 11 southern states. Ryan believes non-discrimination protections at the municipal and state level are extremely important. Federally, a non-discrimination law is also needed to protect LGBT people in credit, education, employment, federal funding, housing, jury service and public accommodations. “With the series of court rulings around the nation including the 4th Circuit, we are getting close to the point where soon we will have marriage equality in all 50 states but we are seeing, particularly in Southern and rural states, a real backlash to our community’s success on these issues,” Ryan says. “Bills trying to limit how or where we can get married or take away funding from staff who would conduct those marriages, or bills creating a license to discriminate in the name of religion are popping up around the region and in the Carolinas.”

Francisco Luis White 28, Same Gender Loving Afro-Latino, Male Education: Studied communications and social science, Newbury College Hometown: Springfield, Mass.

Francisco Luis White has called Charlotte home since 2013, where he currently works as the EPY Peer Navigator for the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network (RAIN). Francisco left his college studies during his junior year at Newberry College, the result of receiving

the Green Party’s endorsement to run, at age 26, as the youngest at-large candidate for Boston City Council in 2013. Named to the National Black Justice Coalition’s 100 Black LGBTQ/SGL Leaders to Watch 2015, Francisco has devoted his professional and volunteer time to bring attention to youth civic involvement, LGBTQ and HIV/ AIDS issues, serving as the young civic leaders coordinator at MassVOTE in Boston and as a language arts education associate at Youthbuild in Cambridge. Issues of race and poverty rank as highly important issues for Francisco. “First, the most uncomfortable discussions of race and poverty need to take place,” Francisco says. “Our community has race and class issues that have proven deadly to queer people of color over the decades. HIV/ AIDS, homelessness, employment and housing discrimination are all issues impacting African-American and Latino LGBTQ people most severely, which is probably why we’ve poured so much time and resources into marriage equality. National and local LGBTQ organizations seem to have forgotten that our movement began at the margins, with brown queer rebels in the streets of NYC and San Francisco, and that actual equality must include queer people of color who move in the world at or below the poverty line.”

Lee Ziglar 22, Gay Caucasion, Male Education: B.A. Marketing, UNCCharlotte (December 2015) Hometown: Advance, N.C. Lee moved to Charlotte three years ago to attend school at UNCCharlotte, where he works as a resident advisor in the campus’ Housing and Residence Life. On campus, he served as president of Pride/ Spectrum, the campus’ LGBT student group. He took the position just three months after coming out. He’s now in his second year on the board of directors of the Charlotte Business Guild, where he serves as secretary. He sees his role there as helping to build bridges. “In the local LGBT community, I believe we need to have

life

a solid organization that can be the voice of the community,” Lee says. “There is no functioning structure to lead many LGBT groups in the Charlotte area. This is important because we need a group that can speak for the whole Queer community when needed and help drive Charlotte and surrounding areas to be a more accepting in schools, workplaces, and society. In the national spotlight, I believe our focus needs to be on making sure that states do not pass discriminatory laws, such as ‘religious freedom’ bills, which could prevent members of the LGBT community from receiving services or goods from a public business.

This type of law is a step backward for our country If we are to continue to progress we must be an affirming nation for all.” : :

From the days of Captain Jack to the present and into the future, young leaders will continue to make their mark for a better Charlotte and better LGBT community.

Pictured: Statue of Captain James Jack at Elizabeth Park.

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Gallup survey: Nearly 90,000 LGBT people in Charlotte metro Raleigh LGBT population surveyed at 3.2 percent

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com CHARLOTTE — New data analysis from Gallup reveals that 3.8 percent of the Charlotte metro area’s population — nearly 90,000 people — identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.

The new numbers come from Gallup Daily tracking interviews, which surveyed more than 374,000 people between June 2012 and December 2014. Gallup’s question was, “Do you, personally, identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender?” Gallup says it is the “largest ongoing study of the distribution of the LGBT population in the U.S. on record, and the first time a study has had large enough sample sizes to provide estimates of the LGBT population by MSA.” Gallup had previously released estimates for LGBT populations in the nation’s 50 states.

In North Carolina, 3.3 percent of the state’s population — or nearly 330,00 people — identifies as LGBT. Gallup looked at the nation’s top 50 metropolitan statistical areas. In North Carolina, two were ranked — Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Raleigh.

Raleigh’s metropolitan area did not include Durham and Chapel, a point surveyors said could influence Raleigh’s results, given

Crowds pictured here from the 2014 Charlotte Pride Festival in Uptown Charlotte.

traditionally higher LGBT populations in cities with large college presences. Gallup

found that 3.2 percent of the population in that metro area identified as LGBT.

The highest ranking metro area was San Francisco, with 6.2 percent of its population identifying as LGBT. The rest of the top 10 included, from highest to lowest, Portland, Austin, New Orleans, Seattle, Boston, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, Denver and Hartford. The bottom 10 included, from highest to lowest, Richmond, Nashville, Milwaukee, San Jose, Raleigh, Cincinnati, Memphis, Pittsburgh and Birmingham.

Researchers noted that the distribution of LGBT people across states and cities is fairly even.

“The distribution of LGBT identity across the largest metro areas in the U.S. is relatively narrow, with a range of 3.6 percentage points from the highest to the lowest MSA among the top 50,” Gallup said. “This mirrors previous analyses of the distribution of the LGBT population across states, which show similarly fairly even distribution, at least in comparison to the many other pronounced geographic differences found on race, ethnic, political and ideological variables.”

For more on the survey, see Gallup’s original report at bit.ly/1EBjLS1. : :

Community Conversation Series sponsored in part by qnotes Last year’s series of community conversations, forums and panels enters phase two, continuing to provide space and facilitate conversations on specific issues throughout the year. Join us for the first 2015 community conversation.

April 13, 6-8 p.m.

Facilitated by longtime North Carolina LGBT activist and leader Mandy Carter UNC-Charlotte Student Union Refreshments and a post-event reception with Carter For more information, contact Joshua Burford at joshua.burford@uncc.edu or 704-687-7127

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tell trinity

by Trinity :: qnotes contributor :: trinity@telltrinity.com

A little bisexuality isn’t going to destroy gay culture Dear Trinity, I recently discovered that I might be bisexual.

I’ve been gay forever, but something inside of me is just suddenly very interested in the opposite sex. I don’t want to convert, I just want to try it. How do I start?

Bi-Lost, Buffalo, NY Dear Bi -Lost, The best way to start any new journey is to just do it. Just say hello to the opposite sex and see if you feel anything. Try it in the street, at a straight club or at a bisexual “mix and mingler” event, usually advertised in a nearby city’s “alternative” weekly or bi-weekly (I just had to say it) newspaper or gay rag. You can also

google “bisexual groups” in your town. And, honey, if all else fails, hire an escort to give you an immediate taste of what you need or…may only need once. Good luck.

Trinity My Dear, My minister keeps telling me that “My {gay} lifestyle is sinful,” and, if I “Don’t live under God’s rules, then I’ll suffer later!” But, Trinity, I’m a good person and my lifestyle is one of joy and love. What should I do?

Religiously Deserted, Ann Arbor, MI Deserted My Dear, As I’ve said before, “If your doctor, lawyer, stock broker or minister is telling you things

you don’t agree with than look elsewhere! Those who often preach “the” gospel often have their own agenda in mind, not yours! Remember, darling, God loves gays, especially our sense of style and decor. (My cartoon sure shows you how I raise my hair… oh, I mean head…high!)

Hello Trinity, My girlfriend’s ex lover is very abusive, overly dramatic and keeps calling us at our house. I’ve told her ex, “Not to call!” and I’ve told my girlfriend how much it bothers me. It’s been going on for six months. Help!

Ex Tortured, Las Vegas, NV Hello Tortured, There are two schools of thought here, one says, “Keeping contact with an ex equals troubles, traumas and possibly court trials.” The other school says, “Learn to be friends with your ex.” Your lover is obviously a graduate of the second school. However, it’s ruining your relationship. So, pumpkin, it’s time to ring the school bell loud and clear by letting your girlfriend know that this lesson isn’t working and she must change her tactics by cutting the ties that are strangling your relationship. She needs to chose between drama class or you!

Ring loud!

Hey Trinity, I get bored more often than I’d like to admit. I do lots of things, like going to the gym or watching movies, but I always end up bored. How do you escape boredom?

Bored Stiff, Ft. Lauderdale, FL Hey Stiff, Getting lost in the actions of everyday life, intellectually, creatively and/or spiritually is the best way to ward off boredom. Oh, and sweetie, here’s a few other hints.

Trinity’s Inspirational Tips For Beating Boredom 1. Cultural: See a play, musical, concert or attend a street festival.

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2. Spiritual: Go on a retreat, climb a mountain, go camping or spend time at a religious community.

3. Physical: Having a makeover, haircut, facial or a massage does wonders.

4. Practical: If you must stay home, clean your car, your house, the closets or redecorate.

5. I ntoxicational: Go to an Irish pub, a local sports bar, a jazz joint or a swinging nightclub.

6. Educational: Take a history, psychology or a computer class. See a lecture. Also, try painting, singing, acting, etc.

7. R ecreational: Go biking, swimming, fishing or join a contact sports club.

8. Communal: Visit an old school chum, a friend or a family member. Even better, volunteer somewhere.

9. Motivational: Throw a dinner party, an event, a fundraiser or put on a parade!

10. Impractical: Think games, puzzles, models or something fun that passes the time. But, turn the TV off and do something with your life, please! : : info: With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org. Learn more at telltrinity.com.

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Carolinas News Notes continued from page 9 The event provides training for LGBT and ally students, faculty, staff and social justice leaders and advocates.

“Campus Pride is proud to bring our signature national LGBTQ event Camp Pride to our hometown of Charlotte, N.C. We believe in showcasing our local community to national leaders and we want to share the activism of youth in the Carolinas and across the South,” said Shane Windmeyer, executive director of Campus Pride. “This will be a significant milestone for our organization and the first national LGBTQ youth event of its kind hosted in Charlotte.”

Spectrum at UNCC and S.A.F.E. Pride from Johnson C. Smith University are serving as partners for the event.

Concurrently, the LGBTQ Professional Academy for Advisors will be held for college faculty and staff personnel, as well as graduate students. The program provides skills-building techniques and more. info/registration: campuspride.org.

— L.M.

Research Roundup Bi survey volunteers sought

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Laurel Watson, an assistant professor of counseling psychology at the University of Missouri is conducting

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research on bisexual women’s experiences of discrimination and distress.

The study is open to those who identify as bisexual women who are 18-years-old and older who live in the U.S. and are able to read the English language.

The anonymous survey takes approximately 30-45 minutes to complete.

The survey is available online at surveymonkey.com/s/bisexualwomen.

A raffle for A $25 Amazon.com gift card is included for participants if they so choose. info: watsonlb@umkc.edu.

— L.M.

Guest Commentary continued from page 5 about anyone else, but I want the advocate that will do what is right over doing what is politically savvy. I am tired of convenient allies. I want us all to be supported when it is inconvenient, when it is hard, when it is painful.

This recent anger seems to also target the trans* community. Some people have spoken out on social media, with LGB individuals upset that trans*-inclusion somehow stole their protections. Let’s be honest, the transgender community is far more vulnerable today than LGB people. I’m a lesbian and have the privilege to hide my sexuality at will. The trans* community often does not have this luxury because they don’t “pass” due to having some masculine or feminine features. They are visible, and a great many don’t have ID that verifies their gender expression. The LGB don’t have to prove and document their core identity in public like the trans* community. Simply put, my LGB brothers and sisters, we are privileged in so many ways.

We need to be allies to our trans* siblings rather than throw temper tantrums that we missed out on protections that we don’t need nearly as much as we’d like to think.

While this community is attacking each other for perceived slights, the opposition is united in a common cause, keeping us oppressed. They may not agree on anything else, but they agree that we must be stopped. What is worse, is that because they offered partial protection to select members of our community, some within our midst were willing to leave others behind.

The carrot they dangled in front of us was an attempt to create a hierarchy within our own community where one group is more privileged and protected than another. As seekers of justice, that bastardized ordinance should anger us. How dare they think we would be so shallow that we would leave our trans* siblings behind. We are better than that. Aren’t we?

Perhaps we could take a lesson from the opposition. Perhaps, we should agree that we may not agree on the nuances or the language, but we agree that we must defeat them. We may not see eye to eye on anything, but we should be able to agree that we are all oppressed, and we must all fight it. We must agree that we can’t fight one form oppression without fighting them all because the mechanism of oppression overlap and reinforce each other.

We must agree that, at the end of the day, we all deserve a seat on the bus. : :

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Foundation preps for ‘signature annual event’ Hearts Beat as One Foundation presents its first Founders’ Ball on April 18

by Matt Comer :: matt@goqnotes.com

On April 18, the sounds of music and laughter will fill the historic Mint Museum Randolph as Hearts Beat as One Foundation presents its inaugural Founders’ Ball — the first annual fundraising event planned by the organization.

Founded last year, Hearts Beat as One Foundation says it is a “community driven organization that is striving to raise funds and awareness for organizations and people based in the Queen City.” In their first year of operation, the group has helped to raise support for groups like the Safe Alliance, Campus Pride and the Regional AIDS Interfaith Network. They’ve also turned their attention to childhood education and literacy, bringing the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to low-income children in Charlotte’s 28205 ZIP code.

Those successes will be celebrated at the Founders’ Ball in April.

“This is poised to be our signature annual event going forward. It’s expected to be a celebration of our first year’s accomplishments,” said board member Christina Stritzinger. “This kicks us off into our second year and sets us up for future successes and another great year of events and fundraising for the non-profit community in Charlotte.”

Mike Blackwelder, a co-chair for the inaugural event, says the event will continue Hearts

Beat as One Foundation’s mission of supporting other organizations, supporting three charity partners — the group’s own work with their Dolly Parton Imagination Library of Mecklenburg County, Autism Charlotte and Safe Alliance, for which Blackwelder works as chief advancement officer.

“We’ve helped so many organizations throughout the year,” Blackwelder said. “At the Founders’ Ball itself, we plan to give away up to $75,000 … as well as some scholarships and grant funding. There’s lots to celebrate that night.”

Attendees at the event — men are asked to wear white tie and women in cocktail attire — will find a unique experience.

“This isn’t a typical fundraising event where you go buy a plate, sit down and are expected to bring out a check book and give more money away,” Stritzinger said.

Balckwelder said visitors will be able to move from room to room in the Mint Museum, where a variety of entertainers — icon Deborah Cox and comedian Leslie Jordan, along with local bands and — will be performing for guests.

“I don’t think there’s any other event like it in Charlotte,” he said.

Along with Blackwelder, other Ball cochairs are board member Tommy Feldman and Charlotte City Councilwoman LaWana Mayfield.

In addition to Deborah Cox and Leslie Jordan, other entertainment includes Synergy Violins of Greenville, S.C., Seattle’s DJ Bret Law and Charlotte’s Miami Dice.

Early bird tickets, which run through March 27, are $75 for regular admission and $140 for a VIP ticket. Admission rises to $125 after the early bird rate ends.

The event will be held at 8 p.m., April 18, Mint Museum Randolph, 2730 Randolph Rd., in Charlotte.

For more information, visit heartsbeatone. org. Tickets can be purchased at thefoundersball2015.eventbrite.com.

March 27-April 9 . 2015

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EVENTS March-April 2015 Continues through April 4 ‘The Normal Heart’ Theatre Charlotte 501 Queens Rd., Charlotte Award-winning production about the early days of the AIDS crisis.

Different Roads Home is presenting sponsor. Tickets are $27 and available online. theatrecharlotte.com.

–––––––––––––––––––– Trans Pride LGBT Mixer Charlotte Pride 1900 The Plaza, Charlotte 7 p.m.

Genderlines and Charlotte Pride team up to host an event centered around the Charlotte area transgender community.

Refreshments including wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served. 21+.

Stonewall Kickball Family SEP MAR MO Fun Day Veterans Park 2136 Central Ave., Charlotte 12:30-3 p.m.

Stonewall Kickball and Time Out Youth head out to the park for an afternoon of fun, including food and games like corn hole, ladder ball, dodgeball, four square and more. An alcohol-free event. Free, but RSVP on Facebook. facebook.com/events/1056479121036022/.

Submit your event to our calendar!

You can submit your event to our comprehensive community calendar presented by qnotes, the LGBT Community Center of Charlotte and Visit Gay Charlotte. Submit your event at goqnotes.com/eventsubmit/ and get a three-for-one entry. All Charlotte-area events will appear on each of the three calendars at qnotes (goqnotes.com), the LGBT Center (lgbtcharlotte. org) and Visit Gay Charlotte (visitgaycharlotte.com).

LezDate L4 Lounge 2906 Central Ave., Charlotte 7 p.m.

Walk for AIDS Raise Up 15 SEP APR SEP ÅPR MO MO Sisters of Mercy Shaw University 101 Mercy Dr., Belmont 118 E. South St., Raleigh 9:30 a.m.

5 p.m.

House of Mercy presents its Southerners on New Ground Charlotte 22nd annual Walk for AIDS. Registration join the Raise Up 15 campaign in favor Black Gay of raising the minimum wage for work- begins at 9:30 a.m., Pride preswith the welcome ers and families. More information is ents a lesbian available online. and walk commencbachelorette facebook.com/events/1573607999576117/. ing at 10 a.m. At noon, stay around for a auction. $15 picnic, music and awards. Information facebook.com/RaiseUpfor15. admission includes an auction paddle and registation are available online. and 1,500 auction bucks. More details thehouseofmercy.org/2015Walkfor Continues through April 19 and tickets are available online.

AIDS.asp.

SEP ÅPR MO At Work: Human Resource Prides of the Southeast SEP APR charlotteblackgaypride.com.

–––––––––––––––––––– MO Changes Various locations The Founders’ Ball & Challenges Charlotte Pride hosts Mint Museum Randolph 6100 Fairview Rd., Suite 206, Matthew Vines InterPride’s regional Prides 2730 Randolph Rd., Charlotte SEP APR MO Charlotte UNC-Charlotte of the Southeast Conference, attracting 7:45 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Student Union Movie Theater Pride organizers from 12 states across Hearts Beat as One Foundation hosts Charlotte Family Resource presents this 9201 University City Blvd., the region. Information and registration its inaugural Founders’ Ball, featuring 25th Anniversary Silver seminar covering the changes you might Charlotte are available online.

SEP MAR MO entertainment by Celebration experience at work after you are married.

6 p.m. charlottepride.org/pose/.

Deborah Cox and Levine Museum of the New charlottefamilyresource.org.

UNC-Charlotte presents a speaking en–––––––––––––––––––– co-chaired by City South gagement with gay, evangelical Christian “It’s Your World” MSM Summit Councilmember 200 E. 7th St., Charlotte author Matthew Vines, author of “God Hayti Heritage Center Dragon boat’s maiden LaWana Mayfield, 7 p.m.

SEP APR MO and the Gay Christian: The Biblical Case 804 Old Fayetteville St., Durham voyage Mike Blackwelder and Tommy Feldman.

One Voice Chorus celebrates a quarter in Support of Same-Sex Marriage.” The 9 a.m.

Ramsey Creek Park Formal attire in a cocktail-style of a century making music. Enjoy hors event is free and open to the public.

The Triangle Empowerment Center atmosphere benefitting Safe Alliance, d’oeuvres, cash bar, a cabaret and DJ. 18441 Nantz Rd., Cornelius facebook.com/events/1097011843649645/. presents it’s first annual MSM summit 9 a.m.

Dolly Parton Imagination Library of Participants can also tour the museum. which addresses rural healath disparity Mecklenburg County and Autism Tickets $15, available online. barriers, as well as perspectives from Charlotte. Early bird tickets are $50 Eli Conley onevoicechorus.com.

SEP APR MO the African-American and Lation LGBT through March 23. Regular admission is North Star LGBT Center –––––––––––––––––––– community. $10 admission includes lunch. $75. VIP early bird is $140. Information 704 Brookstown Ave., Cindy Alexander Free scholarships for those who qualify. and tickets are available online.

Winston-Salem 15239 Waterfront Dr., Huntersville triempowerment.org. heartsbeatone.org.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

Transgender folk Singer Cindy Alexander spends an One World Dragon Boat celebrates the singer Eli Conley Continues through April 18 evening with Different Roads Home at SEP APR MO LGBT* in the South the Monteith Park Clubhouse. Proceeds maiden voyage of their first boat, named performs, with local Triumph.

The Rev. Robin Tanner of trans musician Adam Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Square, Asheville from the fundraiser benefit Different The Campaign for Southern Equality hosts their annual Roads Home. $50 per person or $90 per Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church Plant opening. $10 at the door. All ages welcome. More LGBT* in the South Conference, featuring Mandy Carter couple donation. Open bar, food and live will perform a boat blessing. Light refreshments will be provided. information is available online. as a keynote speaker. Information and registration are available online. performance. oneworlddragonboat.org. eliconley.com. northstarlgbtcc.com. lgbtinthesouth.com. differentroadshome.org.

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