QNotes, July 24, 2020

July 24-Aug. 6, 2020

qnotes

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qnotes

July 24-Aug. 6, 2020

inside this issue

July 24-Aug. 6, 2020 Vol 35 No 07

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contributors this issue

Mykah Buff, Charlotte Pride, Rev. Wes Isley, Kendra R. Johnson, Stan Kimer, Jack Kirven, Lainey Millen, Stanley Popovich, Chris Rudisill, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Gregg Shapiro

front page

Graphic Design by Chris Rudisill Photography: youkatan via Shutterstock Mission:

The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBTQ 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 LGBTQ life and social justice issues.

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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.

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

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A Symbol of Pride

In Memoriam: Dan Mauney

news

Charlotte gay activist, community organizer and an inspiration to those who knew him, Dan Mauney’s death has left his family, friends and associates with a treasure trove of memories of someone whose life made a tremendous impact on the works and world around him.

4 Biden Wins New Jersey, Louisiana Primaries 6 Report Highlights LGBTQ

Landscape and Advocacy 6 Survey Reveals Need for

Care, Support for Youth 6 News Briefs

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a&e 23 Out in Print: ‘Too Much and Never Enough’ 25 Tell Trinity 26 From Ana, with Love

life 8 In Memoriam: Dan Mauney 9 Black Lives Matter Murals 11 Charlotte Pride, Virtually 27 Our People: Shann Fulton

views 4 Political Voices: A Tipping Point: What Will You Do? 21 Spiritual Reflections: Pride Is a Spiritual Virtue 27 Mental Health: Drugs, Alcohol Not the Answer

events Our calendar will return once events begin again.

Black Lives Matter Murals

The Queen City’s street mural has been an inspiration to other cities across the U.S. who have taken note of the artistry that tells the story of those lives touched by violence .

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IN

F CUS CHARLOTTE

Annual LGBT Newcomer & Community Resource Guide

12 Charlotte’s Energetic Growth 13 QC LGBTQ Events 14 Local & Regional LGBTQ Community Resources 18 Char-Meck Government Leadership 19 Government 101

July 24-Aug. 6, 2020

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news

Biden Wins New Jersey, Louisiana Primaries Primary Watch: Biden’s Recent Victories are Largely Symbolic and Donald Trump Predicts a Biden Presidency to be Utter Turmoil

BY Mykah Buff | QNotes staff writer Former Vice President (and likely Democratic presidential nominee) Joe Biden won New Jersey’s Democratic primary as he continues securing his formal nomination scheduled to take place at the party’s convention in August.

At press time Biden led voting percentages with (CNN) 85.3/(Politico) 86.2/(AP) 86.6 percent of the Garden State’s vote leaving Sen. Bernie Sanders gaining (CNN) 13.7/(Politico) 13.5/(AP) 13 percent of the vote. AP’s numbers were based upon 57 percent of votes cast reported. Counting is still ongoing. In terms of numbers, Biden has already grabbed the Democratic nomination, therefore his win in New Jersey can be considered somewhat emblematic.

Sanders dropped out of the 2020 Democratic presidential primary in April, leaving Biden to head up the remaining contests. Biden also agreed to let Sanders keep a number of delegates affording him the opportunity to have an influence on party positions as well as being able to increase voter turnout. Unlike all other Democratic candidates who had already bowed out of the race, Sanders endorsed Biden after dropping out in April.

New Jersey, which awards 126 pledged delegates, held its primaries on Tuesday, July 7. The state was originally scheduled to hold its contests on June 2, but like many other states decided to postpone due to health concerns of the pandemic.

“On Tuesday evening, After snagging the majority of delTrump turned a White House egates in New Jersey, Biden went on to Rose Garden news conference win Louisiana’s Democratic primary on about China’s crackdown on Saturday, July 11, further symbolizing Hong Kong into a campaignhis presumed presidential nomination style screed against Biden, his scheduled to be official at the Democratic Democratic rival,” said The New convention next month.

York Times.

Biden took the lead with 82.2 perMost recently Trump stated cent of the vote, with Sanders trailing in that a Biden presidency would second with 5.3 percent of the vote, with result in a spree of various 1 percent of precincts reporting. The crimes and mayhem.

Pelican State’s primaries were originally “Over the course of 72 scheduled to be held on April 4 but were hours, President Trump’s campostponed on two different occasions. paign accused Joseph R. Biden June 20 was initially the new date for the Jr. of plagiarism,” The New York state’s contest but ended up being postTimes said. “Mr. Trump warned poned for a second time as a result of the that a Biden presidency would coronavirus pandemic.

Former Vice President and Democratic lead to a surge of crime in the Since Biden became the presumppresidential candidate Joe Biden. streets. He tried to link his tive Democratic presidential nominee, (Photo Credit: Gage Skidmore via Flickr. opponent to socialism and to Donald Trump has executed a number of CC-BY-SA-2.0 license) Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, attacks on the character of his opponent a leader of the Democratic left.

Joe Biden. The New York Times said Trump And he said that Mr. Biden would eliminate the suburbs hijacked a press conference turning it into an attack on — and windows.” : : Joe Biden.

A Tipping Point: What Will You Do? Political Voices

BY Kendra R. Johnson, Equality North Carolina Executive Director | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

E

by equity and opportunity for people of color — particularly black and brown Americans.

very single day it feels like the news cycle can’t get more brutal. But then we wake up, something new happens, and we have to adapt, respond and keep moving. We’ve all experienced this compounding of stresses over the past several months: the pandemic, the ongoing epidemic of violence against vulnerable Americans, the protests against racialized violence, the COVID-19 death count and — of course — the approaching election that could change everything.

We are approaching nothing short of a tipping point in this county. And it’s a moment that calls on all of us to engage, respond and to do our best to help change the course of history.

COVID-19 & The Election

Wins & Losses

The past month, in many ways, felt like whiplash when it came to LGBTQ rights. On June 12, the Trump administration finalized a rule interpreting Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that removes clear protections from discrimination against LGBTQ people.

Three days later, SCOTUS ruled that companies can’t unfairly fire or otherwise discriminate against LGBTQ people in the workplace.

Finally, in early July the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced that it would propose a rule that would enable emergency shelters for people experiencing homelessness and intimate partner violence to discriminate against transgender and gendernonconforming individuals by denying them access to single-sex shelters based on their gender identity.

The message from the Trump Administration is clear: this country is committed to targeting and attacking the most vulnerable members of our communities. Despite repeated attempts to claim that the president is pro-LGBTQ, he has time and time again worked against our best interests — and is now, once again, downright attacking us.

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July 24-Aug. 6, 2020

Racial Uprisings

In North Carolina and around the world, we saw an incredible shift happen this month: LGBTQ people celebrated Pride Month as a return to our roots, protesting against the targeted violence inflicted on vulnerable groups including black, brown, transgender and gendernonconforming members of our communities.

Equality North Carolina joined countless other organizations in supporting the Black Lives Matter movement and calling for the redistribution of police funding and better policies and systems of police accountability. The march for Black Trans Lives in New York City saw over 15,000 people from all walks of life come together to call for an end to the epidemic of violence facing transgender women of color in this country. It was, in my opinion, one of the most important Pride months that we’ve seen in recent history.

In the weeks and months to come, we must keep up this momentum and continue to fight for a world framed

We are now just over 100 days from the most important election of our lifetimes — an opportunity to not only get Donald Trump out of office, but to transform the trajectory of this country through elected offices from the top of the ticket to the bottom.

Unfortunately, we’re also continuing to see the death toll from COVID-19 climb, and its inevitable impact on the electoral process has yet to be seen. The pandemic is still disproportionately affecting black and brown communities, as well as our elders and those with preexisting conditions. Those of us with enough privilege to not be in a high risk category this election season are going to have a uniquely pivotal role to play in helping Get Out The Vote this year.

At Equality North Carolina, we’re looking for volunteers to help us build out an entirely new (mostly virtual) campaign structure to register voters, educate them about our candidates and talk to their immediate circles about the importance of voting this election cycle. You can sign up at the volunteer portal on our website to get involved.

If you haven’t heard, we’ve endorsed 145 pro-equality candidates across the state of North Carolina for the 2020 General Election.

This moment in our country’s history and our lives is nothing short of a tipping point. Between the pandemic, the ongoing protests against racialized violence and the perpetual attacks on our most vulnerable by the Trump administration — we don’t have any choice. All of us must come together and collectively work towards building a better future for the coming generations before it’s too late.

This election is a great place to start. I hope you’ll join us. : :

July 24-Aug. 6, 2020

qnotes

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BRIEFS

news Report Highlights Unique LGBTQ Landscape and Advocacy in the U.S. South

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The Movement Advancement Project (MAP) and Campaign for Southern Equality (CSE) have released “Telling a New Southern Story: LGBTQ Resilience, Resistance, and Leadership,” a new report examining the experiences and advocacy strategies of LGBTQ people in the U.S. South. The report was released in partnership with the Equality Federation.

One in three LGBTQ people in the U.S. call the South home — more than any other region of the country. Yet the South has the most hostile policy landscape in the country for LGBTQ issues. Despite the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling affirming employment discrimination protections nationwide for LGBTQ people, 93 percent of LGBTQ Southerners live in a state with a low or negative LGBTQ equality score, reflecting laws which impact virtually every aspect of daily life. Additionally, key elements of Southern culture including religious conservatism, one-party control, and the legacy of slavery, make the South unlike any other region in the country.

This report explores the unique experiences of LGBTQ Southerners and, in response to this unique political landscape, the innovative ways that LGBTQ Southerners build community, provide direct support, and make cultural and political change.

“Contrary to media depictions of LGBTQ people primarily living in New York or California, the South is home to more LGBTQ people than any other region, as well as incredible racial diversity among LGBTQ people,” said Logan Casey, policy researcher at MAP, and author of the report. “LGBTQ advocates in the South are both creative and effective in response to the political landscape and have often led the nation in working in broad coalitions and across a wide range of issues.”

LGBTQ Southerners are also especially effective and successful in policy advocacy, though victories and progress may look different, focusing more on defensive work and long-term public education. Over the last five years, LGBTQ Southerners successfully defeated 93 percent of the anti-LGBTQ bills that were introduced in Southern state legislatures.

“It’s true that LGBTQ Southerners experience a lot of barriers to equality and full inclusion, from a difficult policy landscape to the cultural realities of the South. These forces often require that we organize in different ways, dreaming up new strategies, finding ways to work the seams and the fault lines — in other words, that we approach organizing in ways that are both queer and Southern,” said Rev. Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, executive director at CSE. “There’s a deep sense of resolve and hopefulness, even as we also carry significant pain and grief.

The impact of LGBTQ people staying in the South, being out, sharing our stories, being in public leadership – all of this is changing old notions of what’s possible in the South. This is our home, and to claim it as such is an act of both resistance and reclamation.”

“Despite the Supreme Court ruling affirming employment nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ people nationwide, LGBTQ people are still not protected from discrimination in public accommodations, government services, healthcare and so much more. It’s critical that the work of LGBTQ Southerners be supported and amplified, and that elected officials take immediate steps to expand LGBTQ protections at the federal, state and local levels. LGBTQ Southerners shouldn’t have to choose between basic protections and the place they call home,” said Ian Palmquist, senior director of programs with the Equality Federation.

Southern LGBTQ organizations spotlighted in the report include: Equality Florida, Gender Benders (South Carolina), Knights & Orchids Society (Alabama), Nationz Foundation (Virginia), Southerners on New Ground (North Carolina), STAY Project (Appalachia region), Transform Houston. info: bit.ly/3jqW3Cw. lgbtmap.org. southernequality.org.

— Compiled by Lainey Millen

Trevor Survey Reveals Need for Mental Health Care, Support Systems for Youth

NEW YORK, N.Y. — The Trevor Project released the results of its 2020 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health. The second annual survey found that 40 percent of respondents considered attempting suicide in the past 12 months, with more than half of them being transgender and non-binary youth This highlighted the urgent need for LGBTQ-inclusive policies, programs, and practices, the organization stated. “The study comes at a critical time as the country grapples with the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic and national demonstrations around systemic racism and violence — both of which disproportionately impact the mental and physical health of black LGBTQ people.”

The largest-ever of its kind, this survey represents the experiences of over 40,000 LGBTQ youth and provides data around mental health disparities, discrimination, housing instability, barriers to accessing mental health care, conversion therapy and suicide. Survey data also highlight the positive impact safe spaces and social support have on the well-being of LGBTQ youth.

The study reveals that the majority of respondents experienced symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder (68 percent and 55 percent, respectively), while 48 percent reported engaging in self-harm in the past twelve months, including over 60 percent of transgender and non-binary youth. Yet, nearly half of those who wanted mental health care were not able to receive it.

Survey results also demonstrated that when support systems are in place, LGBTQ youth report significantly lower rates of attempting suicide. Systems of support include a supportive person, LGBTQ-affirming spaces, proper use of pronouns, and access to gender-affirming tools. Transgender and non-binary youth who reported having their pronouns respected by all or most of the people in their lives attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected.

“Given limited research findings about LGBTQ youth, this survey is an essential resource to shine a light on the disproportionate needs of the community and inform our collective response to better support these youth,” said Dr. Amy Green, Director of Research, The Trevor Project. “We have found, now year over year, that greater levels of support and acceptance is associated with dramatically lower rates of attempting suicide. This includes the powerful role of gender-affirming care and support for transgender and non-binary youth. The data serve as a clarion call for us to prioritize affirming systems of support for LGBTQ youth that will benefit society for years to come.”

The survey findings carry significant policy implications for LGBTQ youth. Currently, 30 states still do not have laws protecting minors from the dangers of conversion therapy. The study found that 10 percent of LGBTQ youth reported undergoing conversion therapy, with 78 percent reporting it occurred when they were under age 18. According to the survey, those who experienced conversion therapy attempted suicide at more than twice the rate as those who did not.

“LGBTQ youth are incredibly resilient and face a unique set of challenges every day simply because of who they are,” added Paley. “By expanding systematic data collection to understand these challenges, we can better identify and implement effective systems of care and policies that will improve mental health and ultimately save lives. This is exactly why The Trevor Project exists.”

Trevor has trained crisis counselors for those who are in need and are available 24/7 at 866-488-7386, via chat at TheTrevorProject.org/ Help, or by texting START to 678678. info: trevorproject.org.

— Compiled by Lainey Millen

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July 24-Aug. 6, 2020

Barbee named to new post

The Leading on Opportunity Council has elected Erin Barbee, senior vice president programs and fund development at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Housing Partnership, to serve as its new co-chair alongside inaugural co-chair Andrea Smith, Bank of America’s chief administrative officer. Barbee, a current Council member, replaces community and education advocate James E. Ford. She has been on the council for two years and shared that she is excited about the new position. She says that the Council is focused on a number of initiatives that impact a variety of sectors of the community and she looks forward to being part of the work. Barbee currently serves as the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce director of advocacy and policy.

info: leadingonopportunity.org.

Dorsey named to top 30 list

Frank D. Dorsey, II has been named to the Historically Black Colleges and University’s “Top 30 Under 30” 2020 list, HBCUBuzz reported. Dorsey is the associate director of student engagement at Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) and assists with efforts to create a more inclusive campus through policies and programs. Aside from overseeing the university student union, Dorsey provides leadership to JCSU student programs, including student government, student activities, intramural/club sports, Greek Life, and civic involvement. HBCUBuzz added, “Recognizing the need for LGBT resources and assistance on historically Black college and university campuses, Dorsey partook in both the Young Black Gay Men’s Leadership Initiative and the Human Rights Campaign’s HBCU Leadership Summit. He participated in the Charlotte, NC Community Building Initiative’s Leaders Under 40 Program.

Beyond his responsibilities at JCSU, Frank Dorsey is a board member with Carolina CARE Partnership, Charlotte Black Pride, and Equality North Carolina, which is the oldest statewide organization in the country dedicated to securing rights and protections for the LGBTQ community.”

info: bit.ly/3eRx1bX.

TOY exec leaves post

Rodney Tucker, long-time executive director for Time Out Youth Center, has vacated his post. As of press time, he was unable to speak about his departure nor his plans for the future. A search for his replacement will begin in the fall. In the meantime, O’Neale Atkinson will assume the role of executive director until someone is hired to fill the position. Visit qnotes website for more information on this evolving story.

info: timeoutyouth.org.

Pride launched relief program

Charlotte Pride has announced the launch of its new Charlotte Pride COVID-19 Relief Program which aims to provide 150 or more small grants of $100 in direct, emergency financial assistance to LGBTQ residents in Mecklenburg County who have experienced unemployment or underemployment due to the continued

Errata

In our last print issue we identifed the Our People featured person as Quen Williams instead of the correctly spelled name as Quin Williams.

We apologize for this error.

COVID-19 pandemic. “The new program is one of the only local, community-wide COVID-19 response programs specifically designed to exclusively support LGBTQ community members, who are disproportionately represented among the service and hospitality industry, the gig economy, and hourly, minimum-wage jobs — some of the hardest-hit professions during the pandemic. The program will directly grant $100 to individuals who have lost a full or part time job or have had a reduction in hours greater than 5 hours per week,” the organization said. Jerry Yelton, Charlotte Pride’s programs and development director, shepherded the new relief program from conception to execution. Applications will be accepted from Aug. 3-9 and will be reviewed within two days and payments will be made immediately upon approval. Funds are intended to be used for emergency financial assistance and funds may be used for any variety of needs, including rent/housing, utilities, food/groceries, transportation, medical/health needs, or any other personal need of the applicant. Eligibility details are available online. Contributions are being accepted to add additional monies for more grants. The program is supported in part by the United Way of Central Carolinas’ and Foundation For The Carolinas’ COVID-19 Response Fund, which provided a grant of $10,000 to supplement Charlotte Pride’s $5,000 commitment.

Latino, LGBTQ, and all residents of Lincolnton by using colors to represent skin tones, Lationo heritage and the LGBTQ rainbow,” the City of Lincolnton shared.

Street mural graces small town street

In Memoriam: Rev. Vickey Gibbs

info: charlottepride.org/covidrelief.

Lincolton, N.C. has joined the ever-increasing numbers of cities and towns across the U.S. who are using their streets as a canvas for murals. Volunteers gathered on N. Poplar St. earlier in July to create the Unites We Stand project. Designer of the mural is Demarius Pearson to “recognize and celebrate black,

info: bit.ly/3hq6J2t.

Memorial to share AIDS pandemic stories

To bring greater awareness to the 40year struggle of AIDS, the National AIDS Memorial is launching a new web platform at AIDSMemorial.org that brings the stories of the lives lost, the survivors, the heroes from then to now into the forefront through its 2020/40 storytelling initiative. Additionally, in partnership with AIDS Quilt Touch, all 48,000 panels of the AIDS Memorial Quilt can be viewed and searched by interacting with a high-resolution digital image of the entire Quilt.

info: aidsmemorial.org.

Conference goes virtual

For the first time in its 33-year history, the Creating Change Conference will be a completely virtual event. “Given the ongoing public health crisis and current safety regulations, we will be unable to host Creating Change as an in-person convening in Washington, D.C., in January 2021,” organizers shared. In the meantime, tentatively planned is a Queering Racial Justice Institute on Oct. 10. The multi-day conference will be held Jan. 27-31, 2021.

info: creatingchange.org.

The first Metropolitan Community Churches clergy person to succumb to COVID-19 has died in Houston, Texas. Rev. Vickey Gibbs had been serving as the associate pastor of Resurrection MCC. Her ordination was on Dec. 8, 2014 and served on numerous committees, national organizations, all in the service of those whom she served. “She worked tirelessly

to invite, push and pull others into conversation and action surrounding justice for all, especially those on the margins,” MCC shared.

info: mccchurch.net.

HRC welcomes volunteers

The Human Rights Campaign is soliciting volunteers to champion the organization’s causes through the Community Hub platform. Once one’s profile is activated, a number of activities will be listed that require volunteer assistance. Unfortunately for now, only virtual opportunities are available due to COVID-19 restrictions.

info: hrccommunityhub.org.

Gerami named magazine finalist

The Immigrant Magazine has named Vic Gerami as a finalist of the Los Angeles Press Club’s 62nd Annual Southern California Journalism Awards. The Armenian-American categories are: Activism Journalism (The Blunt Post, “LGBTQ Armenians Face Resign of Terror”), Columnist (2 nominations for The Blunt Post, “10 Questions With Vic” ), Personality Profile/Interview (The Blunt Post, “Interviewed Presidential Candidate Marianne Williamson”), Personality Profile (Writer, “Social Justice Drives Sepi Shyne”), Political Commentary, National (Writer, “12 Steps For Pete Buttigieg, For President of the United States”) and Local (The Blunt Post, “Who is Councilmember Paul Krekorian Working For?”). “As a proud gay, ArmenianAmerican, I am pleased that stories featured include activism and social justice for the LGBTQ+ and Armenian communities,” Gerami said.

info: lapressclub.org.

In-home HIV tests provided

With in-person health services limited due to COVID-19, Greater Than AIDS, a public information initiative of KFF, and Walgreens announced a new program to provide 10,000

OraQuick In-Home HIV Test kits to support expanded testing options in high-need areas.

Local health agencies and community-based organizations will distribute the FDAapproved, self-administered tests at no cost to those unable to get tested in person.

info: greaterthan.org/walgreens.

Pride Link seeks community input

Update South Carolina’s Pride Link is conducting a survey asking respondents for help in creating a program plan for the rest of 2020. The plan will be used to steer the organization’s sustainability. Visit bit.ly/3eJyDV8 to participate.

info: pridelink.org.

Flag display ban amps up

The Washington Blade reported that Confederate flag displays at military institutions has been ordered to stop. “Permitted are the American flag; the flags of the U.S. states, territories and the District of Columbia; military flags and those of allies.

However, by not enumerating them, the memo effectively bans Confederate flags and LGBTQ Pride flags.”

info: bit.ly/3eI0t4o.

Homeless youth resource published

MoneyGeek has published “Financial and Social Resources for Homeless LGBTQ+ Youth” to aid those in need and facing housing instability. The guide shares information on homelessness in the U.S., help for LGBTQ teens, services for those who are homeless and state-by-state options for assistance.

info: bit.ly/3hfubPN.

Gyllenhaal to star in ‘Fun Home’

Queerty has reported that Oscar-nominated actor Jake Gyllenhaal will star as Bruce Bechdel in the large-screen adaptation of Alison Bechdel’s Tony-winning musical “Fun Home.”

info: bit.ly/3eJDZje.

July 24-Aug. 6, 2020

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life

In Memoriam: Dan Mauney Charlotte Business Owner and LGBTQ Advocate Dies at 49

By Chris Rudisill | QNotes Contributor

“N

During the 2017 Human ow I’m stronger Rights Campaign (HRC) North than yesterday; now Carolina Dinner, Mauney it’s nothing but my was honored by friends Scott way.” Those lyrics from the Bishop and Shelly Schoenfeld.

2000 hit song “Stronger” by Bishop spoke of the impact that Britney Spears closed out the Takeover Friday had created, touching graveside service for saying it “enabled many LGBTQ Dan Mauney on July 15. While folks to go beyond the comforts the song may have spoken to of our ever-important gay bars, Mauney’s courage as a proud to be among the mainstream, gay man from rural North and show that we too are citizens Carolina, many would argue of this great city.” Similar events that the community is the one have since spread to more than that is stronger today — a benfive cities across the country. efit of his life and contributions Mauney first got involved to the Queen City. with HRC in 2006 and held many Dan Mauney died on July roles including serving twice as 12 after battling complications the North Carolina Dinner cofrom spinal meningitis and a chair, a Federal Club chair, comstroke. He was 49. munications chair, Gala liaison Growing up just west of and he served on the organizaCharlotte in Cherryville, Mauney tion’s Board of Governors until attended Appalachian State his death.

University, then transferred “Word cannot express to Gardner-Webb University, how much he will be missed… a Christian college in Boiling by those across the Charlotte Spring, where he graduated with LGBTQ community,” read a statea BA in Psychology. In a 2013 inDan Mauney. 1970-2020. (Photo Credit: Facebook) ment by the local HRC group. terview in The Charlotte Observer, “His legacy will have a lasting imhe talked about how painful pact on the lives of his friends and family and those he met his early years were, remembering being taunted in grade along his journey.” HRC and friends school. “I never fit,” said Mauney. organized a virtual outdoor toast to In 1991, Mauney moved to Charlotte and became an inMauney on July 13 at 8:12 pm, the time calculable member of the LGBTQ community. He undoubtof his death the day before. edly had found his fit. He served on the board of directors Fondly known throughout the city for Regional AIDS Interfaith Network, or RAIN, and Time Out as “Dan the Shoe Man,” his entrepreYouth. Debbie Warren, president and CEO of RAIN, said, “In neurial side led him to open two South recent days I’ve heard Dan described as a beacon of light, a End boutiques in 2013. Brief became trailblazer and a legacy. He certainly was all those things.”

Charlotte’s only underwear shop for He was involved in the first decade of Gay Bingo in the men and Shu specialized in women’s city, where he served as the committee chair and in 2002 shoes. The location at 1426 S. Tryon launched Takeover Friday events at Charlotte bars and Street also featured a 3,000 square foot restaurants with close friends Rodney Tucker and Rodney event space that featured trunk shows Hines. “Nobody could tie him down,” said Tucker in an and various community events. Both interview with Charlotte Magazine. “He had an energy that stores remained open for three years. is unmatched by many people.”

Throughout his career, Mauney was “I am grateful for all he contributed to the work of well known in the fashion and shoe RAIN, Gay Bingo and the AIDS Walk,” says Warren. “I will world and was an expert in the indusnever forget how much fun we had, how clever he was, try. Prior to opening his own retailers, and his superpowers of connecting people for good.” She he was a sales and marketing manager refers to that special way he pushed members of the comfor Renaissance and the Southeast munity to be better, enriching the city of Charlotte along director of sales for a number of brands the way as “Dan Magic.”

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July 24-Aug. 6, 2020

including Bruno Magli, Sheridan | Mia, Butter of Italy and Zee Alexis. It was often said that “he could sell a box of rocks in a shoe box,” according to the obituary written by his family.

As a small business owner, he was also instrumental in the growth of the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce (CLGBTCC) and hosted the organization’s first gala in his event space. “We are grateful for the equality work that Dan accomplished in the LGBTQ community,” read a statement from CLGBTCC. “We honor his tenacity as a small business owner. We celebrate his infectious laugh and spirit that helped shape our community.”

Most importantly, Mauney was a stalwart advocate and pioneer for the LGBTQ community. “Dan was a leader in every aspect, whether it was in the shoe industry, LGBT Community or HRC, he gave it 110%,” reads the obituary.

“Our community is better today because of Dan, his voice, and his fight for Equality.”

Following his death, memories flooded social media throughout the city including a common thread that exemplified the love he left behind. One Charlotte resident wrote, “He was such a light and he will be so incredibly missed,” while another said that Mauney was “one of the biggest reasons I am who I am today.”

As friend Zuni Johnson said, “the world is a little less bright.” In a statement from Hearts Beat as One Foundation, Joe Davis added that “Dan Mauney has worn a cape or two, or three over the past few years, but that is not what made him a superhero. His love for the LGBTQ community and fight to see equality achieved was unsurpassed and that is the mark of his superpower! We are saddened by the news of Dan’s passing and will continue the great work that he exemplified through his life. A life well lived and a love that reverberates through our community through volunteerism, philanthropy, activism and genuine support!”

Mauney is survived by his mother, Doris Smith Mauney; his sisters Ann Davis and Barbara Mauney McDaniel; his brother Mark; and several nieces and nephews. The family has asked that memorials be made to RAIN, 601 E. 5th St., #470, Charlotte, NC 28202 or online at carolinarain.org/ donate; Time Out Youth Center, timeoutyouth.org; Shady Grove Baptist Church Building Fund, 3240 Tryon Courthouse Rd., Cherryville, NC 28021; or St. John’s Lutheran Church Outreach Ministry, P.O. Box 100, Cherryville, NC 28021. : :

Black Lives Matter Murals Protecting and Preserving Charlotte’s Street Art

BY Jack Kirven | QNotes Contributor

The Black Lives Matter mural that graces Tryon St. in Uptown Charlotte, N.C. (Photo Credit: City of Charlotte via Facebook)

O

n June 9, Charlotte Is Creative, Brand the Moth, and BLKMRKTCLT organized a group of local activist artists to emulate the Black Lives Matter (BLM) mural that had been commissioned by the mayor of Washington, D.C. That original mural was painted June 5, and it is situated along 16th St. NW, leading directly toward the White House. Charlotte’s own mural is also located in a highly-visible, heavily-trafficked area. The Queen City’s mural is located on S. Tryon St. between Third and Fourth Sts. Whereas the nation’s original mural was painted in bold, solid yellow letters, the artists in Charlotte created a lavish design. Their concept took the original idea of protest signage, and then added the unique perspectives of many individuals. Each of the 16 artists designed a single letter, and they used their singular spaces to pile layers of reference and meaning on top of the political base-layer.

As with Washington, D.C., the street art was approved and legally permitted by local authorities. In full compliance, the creators developed a novel design. It has since been emulated in other cities that have taken artistic inspiration from Charlotte’s mural, which was one of the first to be completed after the original.

Other cities have opted for yellow, but there are multiple examples of municipali-

ties taking creative cues from Charlotte’s local artists.

Something many of these murals have in common is vandalism and defacement.

Of particular note, a man and woman in Martinez, Calif. used black paint to obliterate that community’s street mural. That art, as in Charlotte, had also been legally permitted, and the blacking out was the illegal action. The two have been arrested and charged with a hate crime. The next day, unknown persons illegally painted White Lives Matter on the street, which itself was then unlawfully painted over.

As artists worked to restore the original, an anti-BLM critic drove past and threatened them with a gun. That man has also been arrested.

The murals are also vulnerable to attack from those who support BLM but feel the murals are empty gestures. In Orlando, Fla. the city’s mural was scrawled with phrases like “Not Enough” and “Abolish the Police.”

This white colored graffiti was haphazardly sprayed across the 30-foot letters filled in with solid bands of the Pan African colors (red on top, black in the middle, and green on the bottom). City police are investigating the incident as a crime, and municipal workers pressure washed the graffiti before restoring the original colors.

Initially, the mural in Uptown was open to street traffic; however, on June 14, the artists had to reconvene to repair the art. Almost immediately upon completion a motorist purposefully spun their tires out repeatedly

across the length of the mural, leaving tire marks all along it. S. Tryon St. was then closed to vehicular traffic and remains cordoned off from cars as of this writing. The repairs were made possible by private contributions.

According to Tim Miner, co-founder of Charlotte Is Creative, “the City announced the block is now part of a pilot pedestrian plaza program, and will remain closed to traffic through the end of September.” He also noted that, “a private individual donated protective clear coat that has been applied to the mural. This will protect it from the elements and vandalism. According to the City of Charlotte, the street is not scheduled for resurfacing for two to three years, and the mural is expected to remain in place until then.” : :

Charlotte, N.C.’s Black Lives Matter mural in development. (Photo Credit: Rep. Alma Adams. Public Domain)

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life

A Symbol of Pride

New Flag Draws Mixed Response, but there’s a Bigger History We Should Remember

By Chris Rudisill | QNotes Contributor

A

“it signifies a commitment among men and redesign of the “Pride flag” has gone women to achieve and defend their human viral recently as protests for racial equity rights as homosexual citizens.” In 1974, the continue across the country, sparked International Gay Rights Congress held in

by George Floyd’s violent death. The design Edinburgh, Scotland officially adopted it as a includes stripes of black, brown and the colors symbol for lesbian and gay rights. According to of the transgender Pride flag (light blue, pink “The Encyclopedia of Homosexuality” (1990), “it and white) in a triangle entering the left plain sometimes appears in the form of an amuof rainbow colors. It was designed by Portland, let hung round the neck as a subtle sign of Ore. artist Daniel Quasar following a successrecognition which can pass among unknowing ful Kickstarter campaign in 2018. heterosexuals as a mere ornament.”

Some are calling for it to become the new symbol of the LGBTQ community.

“With everything happening right now, this year feels like a good moment to make this flag the mainstream, default symbol for the One of the most LGBTQ community,” wrote Chris J. Godfrey, a surprising symbols, a journalist for the U.K. newspaper The Guardian lavender rhino caused with a tweeted image of the flag. a lot of controversy in Others advocated for the new design as a Boston during the 1970s, tribute to activists like Marsha P. Johnson and according to The History Sylvia Rivera, two activists who were instruProject, a non-profit armental in the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, as the chive focused on the history of New England’s community celebrated the 50th anniversary of LGBTQ communities. Two of the city’s artists Pride Month this year. reimagined the rhino for a public ad campaign According to Quasar, the symbol is forfor Gay Media Action which went out in press Chris Rudisill (left) with Katherine Ott and photographer Joan E. Biren at the “Rise Up: Stonemally known as the Progress Pride Flag and packets in 1974. “It is a much maligned and wall and the LGBTQ Rights Movement” exhibition at the Newseum in Washington, D.C. was intended to build on a similar design by misunderstood animal,” said Bernie Toale, the City of Philadelphia in 2017 which added one of the artists. Toale and Daniel Thaxton black and brown stripes to the original design chose the animal and the color (a mixture of rights demonstrations around the globe.

by Gilbert Baker. pink and blue) as a symbolic merger of the masculine and Two overlapped triangles (one blue and one pink) has Both designs have been met by waves of negative feminine to encourage visibility of the LGBTQ community. also represented bisexuality in a symbol referred to as comments from some in the community, claiming that Following a price dispute with the MBTA, the Lavender biangles.

Baker’s 1978 design, which today is part of the Museum of Rhino made its debut at Boston’s Pride March that same Modern Art’s permanent collection, did not need to be upyear and was effectively immortalized as a symbol of dated and that it represented ideals of the community and protest and resistance. In 1987, a Lavender Rhino flag was not segments of its people. The six stripes in the design inraised at Boston City Hall.

The labrys lesbian flag was cluded red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, created in 1999 by graphic green for nature, blue for peace, and purple for spirit.

This list is far from complete and does not even designer Sean Campbell, but However, the flag previously had other iterations explore the myriad of flags representing various cultures the symbol was adopted by including the original that had two additional stripes, and identities to this day. The fact is that the LGBTQ comlesbian feminists in the 1970s. with hot pink representing sex and turquoise for magic. munity has utilized many symbols, flags, colors, clothes The flag design includes a According to historians, those were removed in a 1979 and even gestures to represent our identity, either proudly labrys, an ancient religious symbol, superimposed on an modification following the death of San Francisco politior secretly. As society has changed and legislations have inverted black triangle. Asocial women, including those cian and activist Harvey Milk. oppressed or liberated us, those representations of our who were homosexual, were also condemned in the When we look back, we realize that much like the histoidentity have understandably evolved. You do not have to Holocaust because they did not conform to the Nazi ideal ry of the LGBTQ movement, there is no one symbol to replike them or agree with them, but will a single symbol ever of a woman. While the pink triangle was used to identify resent our community. “The only commonality in LGBTQ+ fully define the myriad of beautiful identities that make up gay men, the black triangle was used on these women and life is the risk people take in being themselves,” wrote our rainbow? in the same way was reclaimed when recognition of the Smithsonian Curator Katherine Ott in a 2019 National In a recent online lecture, Ott spoke about the flag atrocities against queer people by the Nazis became more Museum of American History blog titled “The Most Radical debate while discussing the curating of “Illegal to Be widely known in world history. The double-headed axe of Thing About Stonewall Wasn’t the Uprising.”

You: Gay History Beyond Stonewall” which opened at the the labrys was associated with Amazons, as well as various Here is a look at a small history of symbolism in the Smithsonian last year. The exhibition included the first goddesses including Laphria, Artemis and Demeter.

LGBTQ community. transgender Pride flag designed by Monica Helms, while across town Gilbert Baker’s sewing machine used to create the first rainbow flag was on display at the Newseum. “The rainbow flag or the opened-up flag — it’s not the last symThe green carnation likely conjures bol by any means,” said Ott. “Especially with the younger Queer iconography has long included up Oscar Wilde for good reason. In 1892, generation of people who are way more fluid and willing the pink triangle — re-appropriated Wilde instructed an actor in his play not to be boxed in, who knows what the next iteration will by the LGBTQ community after the “Lady Windermere’s Fan” along with a be — if it’s a flag, or — who knows?” : : Nazis used it to label mostly gay men in dozen of his admirers to wear green concentration camps — a dark period of carnations on opening night. Scholars vary on its originaour history. It is believed that somewhere between 5,000 tion, however, some stating that he had borrowed the and 15,000 men were sent to concentration camps for tradition from the gay scene in Paris while others believing Philadelphia reasons related to sexuality and the number of those who he thought of it himself. Either way, the symbol has been t Pride Flag died may never be known. A TIME magazine article in 1977 around since the late 19th century. “The Green Carnation,” noted that gay rights activists in Miami had attached the a novel by Robert Hichens, features two main characters symbol to their clothes as “a show of solidarity while probased closely on Wilde and his lover, Lord Alfred Douglas. testing a vote to repeal a law protecting gay people from housing discrimination.” The activists and accompanying story brought national attention to the reclaimed symbol, and the 1979 Martin Sherman play “Bent” brought even The lambda, a lower-case Greek letter, was more awareness to the pink triangle’s history. By that time, initially the symbol of the New York chapter of AIDS was threatening the gay community and activists at Gay Activist Alliance in 1970. It was chosen by Progress ACT-UP started using the symbol right-side up, compared designer Tom Doerr, who wrote that it reprePride Flag u with the Nazi-era upside-down triangle. Today, the symbol sented “a complete exchange of energy — that continues to be an empowering symbol used in LGBTQ moment or span of time witness to absolute activity” and

LAVENDER RHINOCEROS

THE LABRYS

PINK TRIANGLE

GREEN CARNATION

LAMBDA

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Charlotte’s Energetic Growth The Queen City is Now Larger than San Francisco

BY Jack Kirven | QNotes Contributor

A

ccording to new official U.S. Census information, Charlotte, N.C. is now the 15th largest city in the country. This information looks at residents inside city limits only. In this way Charlotte far outranks Atlanta, which is only the 39th largest city. This changes when the broader metro area of a given city is included, but this is still impressive growth. In only a decade Charlotte has advance two places.

At some point between 2010 and 2015 Charlotte edged past Indianapolis, Ind. to reach #16. In rising to the 15th spot, Charlotte displaced San Francisco, Calif. at some point in late 2018 or early 2019. As with San Francisco and other large cities, the costs of living have increased.

This is especially true in terms of mortgages and rents, which has resulted in Charlotte’s well-documented affordable housing crisis. According to “The 2019 Charlotte-

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Mecklenburg State of Housing Instability & Homelessness Report,” the city had a deficit of 34,000 affordable units, and over 33 percent of Mecklenburg residents were “housing stressed” (meaning more than one third of a household’s income is used to pay for housing). This number rises to 46 percent of residents of color.

Another similarity with San Francisco’s gentrification: Interesting neighborhoods are losing their unique qualities. In Charlotte, Plaza Midwood and NoDa are particularly changed by the new luxury apartments that have displaced the quirky businesses and people that once defined these enclaves. This process has been widely described in the national press for the Castro in San Francisco, but it has played out here as well.

What is fueling this growth? Charlotte is the second largest banking center in the nation. It is also a huge cen-

ter for energy and healthcare. The metro area is home to, or has a significant presence for, many Fortune 500 companies: Bank of America (#24), Wells Fargo (#26), Microsoft (#35), Lowe’s (#40), MetLife (#43), Centene Corporation (#61), Honeywell (#77), Time Warner Cable (#98), Duke Energy (#125), Dollar Tree (#134), Nucor (#151), Sonic Automotive (#298) and Sealed Air (#456).

Other cities in the top 100 in the Carolinas include Raleigh (#41), Greensboro (#67), Durham (#74), and Winston-Salem (#90). Of the 317 cities in the Unites States that have 100,000 or more inhabits within its city limits, the Carolinas also have Fayetteville, N.C. (#108), Cary, N.C. (#154), Charleston, S.C. (#200), Columbia, S.C. (#211), Wilmington, N.C. (#224), North Charleston, S.C. (#252, tied with Carlesbad, Calif.), and High Point, N.C. (#260). : :

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QC LGBTQ Events

Fundraisers, Film Screenings, Entertainment and More!

By QNotes Staff February Human Rights Campaign Carolina Gala hrccarolina.org.

Annual HRC black-tie fundraiser.

March After Dark|Unlimited gmccharlotte.org.

April Reel Out Charlotte reelout.org.

An annual festival of established and upand-coming LGBTQ films. (Recheduled for 2020 to Oct. 21-Nov. 1 due to COVID-19.)

House of Mercy AIDS Walk thehouseofmercy.org.

Hosted annually in downtown Belmont, this fundraiser provides support for House of Mercy’s clients.

Big Gay Sing gmccharlotte.org.

Annual Broadway performance event.

May The Happening fftc.org/clgf.

Annual Charlotte Gay and Lesbian Fund luncheon.

Queen City Drag Race queencitydragrace.com.

Local drag stars perform at this annual team relay drag race.

RAIN AIDS Walk carolinarain.org.

This annual HIV/AIDS awareness and fundraising event is the largest of its kind in the Carolinas.

Speed Street 600festival.com.

Uptown Charlotte is transformed by this celebration of motor sports featuring endless entertainment on two stages and countless vendors.

June

Bear-B-Que charlottepride.org/bbq.

One of Charlotte Pride’s largest events outside of each year’s festival and parade.

Putting the “fun” in fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting the Charlotte Pride Scholarship.

August Charlotte Pride charlottepride.org.

Charlotte’s annual Pride festival takes Uptown Charlotte by storm. Latin Pride, Trans Pride, Women’s Pride and Reel Out (programs of Charlotte Pride) are also part of the annual event and have their own separate programming in addition to participating during the festival’s celebration. (Reschedule this year to Aug. 1 via livestream due to COVID-19. See page 11 for more details.)

Bank of America Charlotte Pride Parade charlottepride.org/parade.

Bands, organizations, businesses, arts groups, politicians and more that march in Uptown Charlotte. (Reschedule this year to Aug. 2 via livestream due to COVID-19. See page 11 for more details.)

Flourish Queer Arts Consortium charlottepride.org/arts.

A “Festival within a festival,” Flourish showcases Charlotte’s rich LGBTQ arts and cultural community during Charlotte Pride.

LGBT-Friendly College Fair campuspride.org.

Campus Pride hosts its regional LGBTQFriendly National College Fair in Charlotte.

Held during Charlotte Pride.

September Festival in the Park festivalinthepark.org.

Charlotte’s annual arts festival overtakes Freedom Park.

October OUTSpoken bit.ly/2WEctxI. UNC Charlotte’s annual LGBTQ speaker series.

Taste of Charlotte tasteofcharlotte.com.

This foodie’s heaven event features a sampling of local culinary arts in Uptown Charlotte. (Reschedule this year to Sept.

18-20 due to COVID-19.)

November

Time Out Youth Gala timeoutyouth.org.

An evening of music, food and fun benefiting Time Out Youth Center.

December

July Charlotte Black Pride cbgp.org.

Annual event celebrating the diversity of the LGBT community. Pride festivities, expos, town halls and events.

Gay Bingo Charlotte carolinarain.org.

An annual fundraiser that helps support the work of RAIN.

World AIDS Day Luncheon carolinarain.org/events/luncheon.

This annual event draws people together in solidarity to pay tribute to the millions of people living with HIV/AIDS, raise awareness of the global impact of HIV/AIDS, and celebrate victories that are allowing more people to live longer and healthier lives.

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Local & Regional LGBTQ Community Resources Providing Support for All Compiled by Qnotes Staff

(Photo Credit: Владимир Гайков via Adobe Stock)

Advocacy

North Carolina AIDS Action Network ncaan.org.

Charlotte Pride Band charlotteprideband.org.

Charlotte Observer charlotteobserver.com.

ACLU of North Carolina acluofnorthcarolina.org.

North Carolina Gay and Lesbian Attorneys 919-834-6861 ncgala.org.

Dalliance Films dalliancefilms.com.

QCity Metro qcitymetro.com.

Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte gmccharlotte.org.

QNotes goqnotes.com.

One Voice Chorus onevoicechorus.com.

Queen Cithy Nerve qcnerve.com.

Queen City Theatre Company queencitytheatre.com.

Faith

Reel Out Charlotte reelout.org.

Caldwell Presbyterian Church 1609 E. Fifth St. Charlotte, NC 28204 704-334-0825 caldwellpresby.org.

Campus Pride 704-277-6710 campuspride.org.

North Carolina Transgender Unity nctgunity.org.

Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce clgbtcc.org.

The Freedom Center for Social Justice fcsj.org.

Elder Law Clinic at Wake Forest University elder-clinic.law.wfu.edu.

Safe Schools NC safeschoolsnc.com.

UNC Charlotte LGBTQ+ Staff and Faculty Caucus qtsfc.uncc.edu.

Equality North Carolina equalitync.org.

Feed The Movement CLT facebook.com/feedthemovementclt.

Arts

HRC Carolina hrccarolina.org

Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte atcharlotte.org.

Mecklenburg Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Political Action Committee (MeckPAC) meckpac.org.

Big Mammas House of Burlesque bigmammasproductions.com.

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Stephen Seay Productions bit.ly/2aBpAuC. StillOut LGBT Photography Club stillout.org.

Media Creative Loafing clclt.com.

Charlotte Atheists and Agnostics charlotteatheists.com.

Charlotte Buddist Vhara 3423 Stonehaven Dr. Charlotte, NC 28215 charlottebuddhistvhara.org.

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First Christian Church 1200 East Blvd.

Charlotte, NC 28203 704-334-3771 fcc-charlotte.org.

Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church 9704 Mallard Creek Rd. Charlotte, NC 28262 704-510-0008 puuc.org.

First United Methodist Church 501 N. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28202 704-333-9081 charlottefirst.org.

ReBirth Cathedral 2229 Village Lake Dr. Charlotte, NC 28212 980-819-2636 rebirthcathedral.org.

Havurat Tikvah 2821 Park Rd. Charlotte, NC 28209 980-225-5330 havurattikvah.org.

Seigle Avenue Presbyterian Church 600 Seigle Ave. Charlotte, NC 28204 704-338-1914 seigleavenue.org.

Holy Covenant United Church of Christ 3501 W. WT Harris Blvd.

Charlotte, NC 28269 704-599-9810 holycovenantucc.org.

Sacred Souls Community Church 2127 Eastway Dr. Charlotte, NC 28205 980-237-0260 sacredsoulschurch.org.

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 1900 The Plaza Charlotte, NC 28205 704-377-5439 htlccharlotte.org.

St. John’s Baptist Church 300 Hawthorne Ln. Charlotte, NC 28204 704-333-5428 stjohnsbaptistchurch.org.

Interfaith Equality Coalition facebook.com/InterfaithEqualityCoalition.

St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church 1600 Norris Ave. Charlotte, NC 28206 704-375-9650 stlukebc.org.

M2M: Matters to Mission The Evening Muse (meeting location) 3227 N. Davidson St. Charlotte, NC 28205 m2mcharlotte.org.

MeckMin 3900 Park Rd. Charlotte, NC 28209 704-565-5455 meckmin.org.

MCC Charlotte 17121 Orr Rd. Charlotte, NC 28213 704-563-5810 mymcccharlotte.org.

Missiongathering Charlotte 420 E. 15th St. Charlotte, NC 28206 704-432-4028 mgclt.com.

Myers Park Baptist Church 1900 Queens Rd. Charlotte, NC 28207 704-334-7232 mpbconline.org.

New Life MCC 1201 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 28207 704-334-0350 newlifemcc@bellsouth.net newlifemccnc.org.

Park Road Baptist Church 3900 Park Rd. Charlotte, NC 28209 704-523-5717 parkroadbaptist.org.

St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 1510 E. 7th St. Charlotte, NC 28204 704-376-8441 stmartins-charlotte.org.

St. Peter’s Catholic Church 507 S. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28202 704-332-2901 stpeterscatholic.org/index.php/communityoutreach/gaylesbian-ministry.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church 115 W. 7th St. Charlotte, NC 28202 704-332-7746 web.st-peters.org.

South Park Christian Church 6650 Park South Dr. Charlottte, NC 28210 704-554-1066 southparkchristian.net Temple Beth El 5101 Providence Rd. Charlotte, NC 28226 704-366-1948 templebethel.org.

Temple Or Olam 5300 Poplar Tent Rd. Concord, NC 28027 704-720-7577 or-olam.org.

Trinity United Church of Christ 38 Church St. N. Concord, NC 28025

704-782-1024 commachurch.com.

704-531-2467 carolinascare.org.

UU Church of Charlotte 234 N. Sharon Amity Rd. Charlotte, NC 28211 704-366-8623 uuccharlotte.org.

Dudley’s Place 103 Commerce Centre Dr. Ste. 103 Huntersville, NC 28078 704-977-2972 myrosedalehealth.com.

UU Fellowship of Lake Norman 135 Woodlawn School Loop Mooresville, NC 28115 704-765-6088 uulakenorman.org.

Unity Fellowship Church 4800 Wedgewood Dr. (Fellowship Hall) Charlotte, NC 28210 704-567-5007 ufccharlottenc.org.

Watershed Charlotte 2101 Shenandoah Ave. Charlotte, NC 28205 704-644-0919 watershedcharlotte.com.

Wedgewood Church 4800 Wedgewood Dr. Charlotte, NC 28210 704-523-6108 wedgewoodchurch.com.

Philanthropy Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund 704-973-4500 fftc.org/clgf.

Hearts Beat as One Foundation 888-349-5558 heartsbeatone.org.

HIV/AIDS Affinity Health Center Main 455 Lakeshore Pky. Rock Hill, SC 29730 Clover 300 Clinton Ave. Clover, SC 29710 Fort Mill 120 E. Elliott St. Fort Mill, SC 29715 York 37 Pinckney St. York, SC 29745 803-909-6363 ext. 0 info@affinityhealthcenter.org affinityhealthcenter.org.

Amity Medical Group 6010 East W.T. Harris Blvd.

Charlotte, NC 28215 704-208-4134 amitymed.org.

Carolinas Care Partnership 5855 Executive Center Dr. Suite 101 Charlotte, NC 28212 704-531-2467

House of Mercy 100McAuley Cir. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4711 thehouseofmercy.org.

Infectious Disease (ID) Consultants & Infusion Care Specialists 4539 Hedgemore Dr. Charlotte, NC 28209 704-331-9669 atriumhealth.org/locations/id-consultants.

Lake Norman Community Health Clinic 14230 Hunters Rd. Huntersville, NC 28078 704-316-6611 lnchc.org.

Mecklenburg County Department of Health Southeast Campus 249 Billingsley Rd. Charlotte, NC 28211 704-336-6500 mecknc.gov/healthdepartment/clinicservices.

Mecklenburg County Department of Health Northwest Campus 2845 Beaties Ford Rd. Charlotte, NC 28216 704-336-6500 mecknc.gov/healthdepartment/clinicservices.

PowerHouse Project 1420 Beatties Ford Rd. Charlotte, NC 28216 704-334-6076 powerhousecharlotte.org.

RAIN 601 E. 5th St., Ste. 470 Charlotte, NC 28202 704-372-7246 carolinarain.org.

RAO Community Health 321 W. 11th St. Charlotte, NC 28202 704-237-8793 raoassist.org.

Rosedale Health + Wellness 103 Commerce Centre Dr. Ste. 103 Huntersville, NC 28078 704-948-8582 myrosedalehealth.com.

Medical Affinity Health Center Main 455 Lakeshore Pky.

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Rock Hill, SC 29730 Clover 300 Clinton Ave. Clover, SC 29710 Fort Mill 120 E. Elliott St. Fort Mill, SC 29715 York 37 Pinckney St. York, SC 29745 803-909-6363 ext. 0 info@affinityhealthcenter.org affinityhealthcenter.org.

Amity Medical Group East Charlotte 6010 E. W.T. Harris Blvd.

Charlotte, NC 28215 704-208-4134 info@amitymed.org amitymed.org.

Sports

Chi Psi Omega Fraternity chipsiomegafraternity.org.

Carolina Softball Alliance carolinasoftball.org.

The City Nation, Inc. citynation.org.

Charlotte Front Runners charlottefrontrunners.com.

Convergence Riders convergenceriders.com.

Charlotte Rainbowlers charlotterainbowlers.com.

Destini Productions destiniproductions.com.

Charlotte Roller Girls charlotterollergirls.com.

Genderlines genderlines.org.

Charlotte Royals Rugby charlotteroyalsrugby.com.

Muslim Association for Sexuality and Gender Diversity lgbtmuslims.uncc@gmail.com.

One World Dragon Boat oneworlddragonboat.org.

Queen City Tennis Club qctc.org.

Amity Medical Group South Charlotte 10508 Park Rd., Suite 130 Charlotte, NC 28210 704-208-4134 info@amitymed.org amitymed.org.

Stonewall Sports stonewallcharlotte.leagueapps.com.

Social & Support

Lionel Lee Jr. Center for Wellness 600 Siegel Ave. Charlotte, NC 28204 704-719-0848 llcwellness.org.

41 Percent 41percent.org.

Novant Health Midtown Family Medicine 335 N. Caswell Rd. Charlotte, NC 28204 704-384-7980 rhett.brown@novanthealth.org nhmidtownfamilymedicine.org.

Carolina Bear Lodge carolinabears.org.

Planned Parent — Charlotte Health Center Planned Parenthood South Atlantic 700 S. Torrence St. Charlotte, NC 28204 704-536-7233 bit.ly/2GIKJzV. RAO Community Health 321 W. 11th St. Charlotte, NC 28202 704-237-8793 raoassist.org.

Alpha Psi Kappa Fraternity alphapsikappa.org.

Carolina Transgender Society carolinatransgendersociety.com.

Charlotte Black Pride charlotteblackpride.org.

Charlotte H2Os charlotteh2os.ning.com.

Charlotte LGBTQ Elders charlottelgbtqelders.org.

Charlotte Latin Pride charlottepride.org/latin.

Charlotte Trans Pride charlottepride.org/trans.

Rosedale Health + Wellness 103 Commerce Centre Dr. Ste. 103 Huntersville, NC 28078 704-948-8582 myrosedalehealth.com.

Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce clgbtcc.org.

Charlotte Pride charlottepride.org.

Charlotte Tradesmen charlottetradesmen.org.

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PFLAG Charlotte pflagcharlotte.org.

Prime Timers of Charlotte primetimersww.com/charlotte.

PRISM prismcharlotte.org.

Queer People of Color Collective queerpoccollective.com.

Southern Country southerncountrycharlotte.com.

There’s Still Hope! tshcharlotte3.org.

Transcend Charlotte transcendcharlotte.org.

Twirl to the World Foundation twirltotheworld.org.

UNC Charlotte Office of Identity, Equity, and Engagement identity.uncc.edu.

Youth African-American Alliance for Gay & Lesbian Education Johnson C. Smith University a3gle.tripod.com.

CPCC Spectrum Club facebook.com/groups/CPCCSpectrum.

Campus Pride campuspride.org.

LGBT Legal Society Charlotte School of Law bnicholson@charlottelaw.edu.

LGBTQ Caucus Davidson College gecampbell@davidson.edu.

Gender Education Network gendereducationnetwork.org.

Gender Equity Center Johnson & Wales University jwu.edu/content.aspx?id=62480.

GLoBAL Winthrop University winthrop.edu/studentorgs/default. aspx?id=6197.

Pride Alliance Club Central Piedmont Community College facebook.com/groups/cpccpridealliance.

Pride JWU Johnson and Wales University facebook.com/pride.jwu.7.

PRISM LGBT young adults facebook.com/prismcharlotte Queers & Allies Davidson College davidson.edu/student-life/multicultural-life/ lgbtqa-community-resources.

Queens Friends of Lesbians and Gays qflag.tumblr.com.

Safe Queens University safequeensgsa.wordpress.com.

Spectrum UNC Charlotte unccspectrum.wix.com/spectrum.

Time Out Youth Center 704-344-8335 timeoutyouth.org.

UNC Charlotte Office of Identity, Equity, and Engagement identity.uncc.edu.

[Editor’s Note: qnotes’ research into finding community resources was only as good as what was available online and from other sources. Should readers find errors and wish to send corrections to the list or want to have a group listed, email qnotes with “InFocus addition” in the subject line to editor@ goqnotes.com. qnotes wants to make these listings as accurate as possible to maintain integrity of the information provided.]

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Char-Meck Government Leadership City Council and Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners

By Lainey Millen | QNotes Staff WRITER

Charlotte Mayor and City Council Mayor Viola Alexander Lyles Democrat Elected 2017; re-elected 2019 mayor@charlottenc.gov 704-336-2241 Mayor Pro Tem and City Council Member at-Large Julie Eiselt Democrat Elected 2015; re-elected 2017, 2019 Committees: Small Business Task Force Group, Transportation, Planning and Environment (chair), Great Neighborhoods, Budget and Effectiveness (vice chair) 704-336-4099 julie.eiselt@charlottenc.gov At Large Dimple Ajmera Democrat Elected 2017; re-elected 2019 Committees: Small Business Task Force Group, Workforce and Business Development, Safe Communities, Budget and Effectiveness 704-336-2777 dimple.ajmera@charlottenc.gov James Mitchell, Jr. Democrat Elected 2015; re-elected 2017, 2019 Committees: Small Business Task Force Group, Workforce and Business Development (chair), Safe Communities (vice chair), Intergovermental Relations 704-336-3430 james.mitchell@charlottenc.gov

Braxton Winston Democrat Elected 2017; re-elected 2019 Committees: Housing Task Force Group, Transportation, Planning and Environment, Great Neighborhoods (vice chair), Intergovermental Relations (co-chair) 704-336-3185 braxton.winston@charlottenc.gov District 1 (Dilworth, Plaza-Midwood, Grier Heights, Freedom Park, Myers Park, Eastover, Elizabeth, Chantilly) Larken Egleston Democrat Elected 2017; re-elected 2019 Committees: Airport Task Force Group, Housing Task Force Group, Transportation, Planning and Environment (vice chair), Safe Communities (chair), Intergovermental Relations 704-336-3433 larken.egleston@charlottenc.gov District 2 (Central Business District, Third and Fourth Wards, Wesley Heights) Malcolm Graham Democrat Elected 2019 Committee: Housing Task Force Group, Workforce and Business Development, Great Neighborhoods (chair), Budget and Effectiveness 704-336-6105 malcolm.graham@ci.charlotte.nc.us

Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners

Charlotte City Council: (left to right): Matt Newton, Tariq Bokhari, ReneÊ Johnson, Victoria Watlington, Dimple Ajmera, James Mitchell, Mayor Vi Lyles, Mayor Pro Tem Julie Eiselt, Braxton Winston, Ed Driggs, Malcolm Graham and Larken Egleston. (Photo Credit: City of Charlotte, via Twitter) District 3 (West Charlotte) Victoria Watlington Democrat Elected 2019 Committees: Airport Task Force Group, Safe Communities, Great Neighborhoods 704-336-3435 victoria.watlington@charlottenc.gov District 4 (northeast Charlotte, from The Plaza to the City Limits. I-85 North runs through) Renee’ Johnson Democrat Elected 2019 Committees: Housing Task Force Group, Workforce and Business Development, Safe Communities, Budget and Effectiveness 704-336-3436 renee.Johnson@charlottenc.gov District 5 (East Charlotte, near N Sharon Amity Rd., Albemarle Rd., Rama Rd., and Idlewild Rd.) Matt Newton Democrat Elected 2017; re-elected 2019 Committees:

At Large Pat Cotham Democrat Elected 2014 980-314-2874 pat.cotham@mecklenburgcountync.gov Trevor M. Fuller Democrat Elected 2014 980-314-2871 trevor.fuller@mecklenburgcountync.gov Ella B. Scarborough Democrat Elected 2014 980-314-2879 ella.scarborough@mecklenburgcountync.gov

Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners: (left to right, front to back) Pat Cotham, Ellla B. Scarborough, Chair George Dunlap, Vice Chair Elaine Powell, Vilma D. Leake, Mark Jerrell, Susan Rodriguez-McDowell, Trevor M. Fuller and Susan B. Harden. (Photo Credit: Mecklenburg County) The Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners are responsible for adopting the annual county budget, setting the county property tax rate and assessing and establishing priority of the many community needs, especially relating to health, education, welfare, mental health and

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the environment. The board also makes appointments to citizen advisory committees.

Elections for the Board are held in November of even-numbered years. Six commissioners are elected by district and three are elected at large.

District 1 Elaine Powell, Vice Chair Democrat Elected 2018 980-314-2876 elaine.powell@mecklenburgcountync.gov District 2 Vilma D. Leake Democrat Elected 2008

Airport Task Force Group, Transportation, Planning and Environment, Intergovermental Relations 704-336-3432 matt.newton@charlottenc.gov District 6 (South Charlotte) Tariq Bokhari Republican Elected 2017; re-elected 2019 Committees: Small Business Task Force Group, Workforce and Business Development (vice chair), Great Neighborhoods, Intergovermental Relations (co-chair) 704-336-3431 tariq.bokhari@charlottenc.gov District 7 (Southeast Charlotte, along Highway 51) Edmund H. Driggs Republican Elected 2017; re-elected 2019 Committees: Airport Task Force Group, Transportation, Planning and Environment, Budget and Effectiveness (chair) 704-432-7077 edriggs@charlottenc.gov

980-314-2875 vilma.leake@mecklenburgcountync.gov District 3 George Dunlap, Chairman of the Board Democrat Elected 2012 980-314-2873 george.dunlap@mecklenburgcountync.gov District 4 Mark Jerrell Democrat Elected 2018 980-314-2872 mark.jerell@mecklenburgcountync.gov District 5 Susan B. Harden Democrat Elected 2018 980-314-2877 susan.harden@mecklenburgcountync.gov District 6 Susan Rodriguez-McDowell Democrat Elected 2018 980-314-2878 susan.rodriguez-mcdowell@mecklenburg countync.gov

IN

F CUS CHARLOTTE

sponsored by

Annual LGBT Newcomer & Community Resource Guide

Government 101

How the City of Charlotte Runs and Who Runs It

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By QNotes Staff

Members of the City Council and the mayor harlotte, N.C.’s government is operated on create a “board of directors” that set policy, a council-manager form of government approve the financing of all city operations and and was adopted in 1929. This form of enact ordinances, resolutions and orders. Their government divides responsibilities between responsibilities also include appointing the city elected officials and an appointed city manager. manager, city attorney, city clerk and members Citizens elect the mayor and 11 council of various boards and commissions. members every two years. The mayor and The city oversees the following service areas: four council members are elected at-large by water and sewage, trash collection, transit a citywide vote; seven council members are systems, animal control and adoption, among elected from districts by voters who reside in others. each district.

Additionally, government officials and emThe City Manager is Marcus D. Jones. ployees see to day-to-day code and ordinance Charlotte’s form of government leaves the city compliance, zoning, inspections, licencing, land manager with the task of carrying out decisions development, records, business resources, ecomade by the city council and the mayor, effecnomic development, law enforcement, as well as tively making Jones the executive head of local education, leisure and other areas. government. The city manager is not an elected Charlotte Government Center. (Photo Credit: droom via Flickr. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 license) The city also provides governmental educaposition, but the manager is appointed by the tional resources for its citizenry in the form of mayor and the city council. is the first African-American woman to be the mayor of adademies.

The city’s mayor is a representative of the Charlotte.

The logo for the City of Charlotte is a stylized crown city at the state and federal level. Officially, the mayor A majority of the legislative power in the city belongs to To learn more and to obtain more informatioin, visit presides over city council meetings and official city cermembers of the city council. charlottenc.gov. : : emonies. The current mayor of Charlotte is Vi Lyles who

The Queen City’s LGBTQ Bar Scene

Charlotte and the surrounding area have numerous options for evening outings.

Here is a map of local bars, along with address, phone number and website information for each of them.

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Pride Is a Spiritual Virtue Spiritual Reflections

By Rev. Wes Isley | Guest Contributor

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oday, LGBTQ+ Pride is everywhere — products, workplaces, social media and more. Although June is traditionally Pride month, Charlotte enjoys a double shot by celebrating in August. And while COVID-19 has led to the cancellation of in-person Pride events in 2020, the LGBTQ+ community has responded by hosting virtual events all spring and summer. Pride runs year-round, as it should. But it wasn’t always this way, and shame leveled by conservative religious communities has played a major role in keeping people locked tight in their closets.

When I first heard about LGBTQ+ Pride as a newly out gay man, I struggled. Before I could embrace Pride, I had to untangle the religious teachings that said being gay was shameful. Beyond that, pride itself was a sin, ranking as one of the “seven deadly sins.” I was taught that any expression of pride was at best problematic, including pride in my appearance, my talents or abilities, or my favorite sports team (not that I had one!). My less-religious friends had an easier time embracing their LGBTQ+ Pride while I had to shed layer after layer of suffocating and destructive shame.

Many LGBTQ+ people who experience such harmful indoctrination reject religion altogether, and I don’t blame them. However, religion offers many people like myself inspiration, meaning and beauty. When embracing our LGBTQ+ Pride, I think religion or spirituality can guide us as we sort out what it means to be proud. All pride isn’t bad. Examples of healthy pride include pride in cultural traditions like recipes or crafts, pride in securing a dream job or being recognized for a job well done and pride when someone we love achieves their goal. I think we know harmful pride when we see it: arrogance, an unwillingness to listen to or learn from others, exaggerating our

accomplishments or taking credit when someone else has done all the work.

Too often, religious teachings confuse us by setting up a false choice between pride and humility. However, these two qualities go hand in hand. I can be proud of my accomplishment and also humble enough to recognize the people who helped me along the way. We can be proud of being LGBTQ+ because of the perspectives and contributions we bring to society while also having the humility to recognize that there are other groups who have their own valuable contributions to make.

Our religious communities need to focus more on teaching what healthy pride looks like than on emphasizing its harmful side. As a Pagan spiritual practitioner, I want to share some ways Pagan communities support and encourage a healthy view of pride. In general, Pagans strive to embody specific virtues in our lives rather than adhering to strict commandments or prohibitions. Depending on the tradition, these virtues may include hospitality, honesty and courage. Pride isn’t singled out as bad; in fact, it is often celebrated during special rituals or holidays.

Pagans in Norse or Germanic traditions may practice what’s called a sumbel, which is basically a social drinking ritual. The point isn’t to get drunk but rather to take turns sharing stories about the gods, our families and ancestors and ourselves. Think of it as a boast and a toast to

foster community. A seasonal time for pride in Druidry and Wicca occurs at Lughnasadh, the Pagan holiday in late July/early August. Inspired by the agricultural cycle of planting and harvesting, Lughnasadh rituals give participants an opportunity to boast about what we’ve accomplished since last year. The achievement can be anything from breaking a bad habit to learning a new skill. I always find these rituals refreshing because it’s inspiring to hear what other people have done, and it gives me permission to remove another old layer of shame.

And inspired by LGBTQ+ Pride, Pagan Pride festivals are held nationwide, including across the Carolinas. These events provide safe spaces for Pagans to celebrate our perspectives, contributions, communities and achievements.

LGBTQ+ people have experienced enough shame, but it continues in some corners even today. Thankfully, more and more religious communities celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride now than ever before. Does your spiritual home fully accept you as an LGBTQ+ person? If not, I hope you are able to uncover the pride needed to go where you are accepted. If, like me, you’ve found that home, then join me in a virtual toast and boast — to Pride! : : Rev. Wes Isley is a Pagan minister living in Charlotte and a Disaster Spiritual Care volunteer with the American Red Cross.

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COVID-19: Will Corporate Diversity Initiatives Go Down the Tubes During and After the Pandemic?

Taking a Look at Options in Our Future

BY Stan Kimer | Guest Contributor

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really do have a fear that the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts across many organizations will be set back several years during this time of the coronavirus pandemic. If DEI is truly a strategic initiative for organizations to thrive and grow into the future, why should things stop now?

In January, before all this COVID-19 stuff really started, I wrote a two-part series that were entitled: Part 1: Huge Gaps in Diversity in Business Leadership — A Systemic Issue Needing a Systemic

Approach (bit. ly/2XQemIx) and Part 2: Five Tactics to Address the System Issue of the Lack of Diverse Business Leaders (bit.ly/3dSAx6u).

In Part 2, the fourth tactic I shared was “never letting up.” I shared that often executives see a little progress (“we now have an African-American in the

c-Suite, women in management has gone up from 18 percent to 20 percent”) and then the budget gets cut and work stops. Then things will take their natural course and revert back to the old pattern. Dr. Vida Robertson, professor at the University of Houston, often states, “You cannot take the foot of the gas or the vehicle will stop.” In

this case, since it is an uphill battle, the car will go backwards once you take your foot off the gas!

Over the several months, I saw every in-person diversity training initiative I had scheduled between March and June canceled, with little or no effort to reschedule or consider going web-based. In fact, even one four-week webinar training series was canceled since the organizers felt people would have too many other things to worry about instead of diversity.

My largest fear is that as we slowly reopen the country, that many corporate budgets will be slashed to try to turn out a decent annual profit statement, and diversity efforts will be one of the first items severely cut.

And then the ramifications could end up being: • The predominately white male senior leadership will retain more of the leaders like themselves, impacting employment and promotion opportunities for under-represented minorities. And it wouldn’t be deliberate or mean-spirited, but simply unconscious bias taking its natural course.

• Diversity recruiting efforts may be cut resulting in less hires of qualified, diverse candidates.

• Respectful workplace training would be cut, and some employees may revert back to old habits of forming non-diverse teams and making their diverse co-workers feel unwelcomed.

• Some companies may experience additional revenue drop as they fail to effectively sell and market to diverse customers.

• Philanthropic giving to diverse community organizations may be curtailed.

Interaction with diverse people may be less frequent during these days of social isolation.

Organizations need to realize that in challenging days, an increased focus on diversity, equity and inclusion is warranted.

Tactics you may want to consider at this time include: • Offering web-based DEI training to your employees, especially those who may have a decreased workload at this time and capacity to take some online trainings. Options can include general offerings or having your own customized training.

• Doing some strategic work and planning and how you can advance DEI initiatives in a more virtual workplace.

• Encouraging diversity councils and employee resource groups to meet virtually during this time.

• Encouraging one-on-one virtual employee connections or mentoring relationships can be formed with a focus on connecting with dissimilar people.

Embrace diversity even more during these challenging days! : : Stan Kimer operates Total Engagement Consulting by Kimer based in Raleigh, N.C.

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a&e

‘Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World’s Most Dangerous Man’ Out in Print

BY terri schlichenmeyer | CONTRIBUTING WRITER “Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World’s Most Dangerous Man”

by Mary L. Trump, Ph.D. ©2020, Simon and Schuster $28.00 227 pages

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ou hadn’t seen that container in ages.

You really can’t remember when you put it on the shelf. Sometime this year, six years ago, when you moved last? What’s in it must be worth something, though, or you wouldn’t’ve saved it. Now, as in the new book “Too Much and Never Enough” by Mary L. Trump, Ph.D., digging may yield answers.

No one has to explain to you who Donald Trump is but, for anyone who’s been completely out of the loop, Mary Trump is Donald’s niece (she uses his first name, always, and to avoid confusion, so will we). Trump has a Ph.D. in Psychology, worked at Manhattan Psychiatric Center while in school, was once a therapist and taught graduate psychology. The point is, she got chops and it shows, especially when this book — a look at her family and, specifically, her Uncle Donald — reads like something from the True Medicine genre. Indeed, medically-based passages are nearly emotionless in their clinicality.

ling group and the family at large, learning to read silences, To fully understand this story and where it leads, and hearing regular racist or homophobic comments that Trump begins with brief accounts of her greatmade her, years later, keep mum on her marriage to (and grandfather, who came to America from Germany in subsequent divorce from) a woman. The cruelty, as she order to avoid military service. After the elder man describes it, can sometimes read like a TV documentary on died, Trump’s grandfather “Fred” (as she refers to wolves at a kill. Disappointment was thick on both sides. him) became business partners with his mother, and Readers may occasionally note something like sour expanded the family fortune. grapes, too, but even that ofTrump asserts that Fred was “a fers more of an understandhigh-functioning sociopath” who put ing of Trump’s observations. his own self-interests above everyWhile this memoir somewhat thing else. He was cruel for cruelty’s culminates with the fight over sake and ultimately used that Trump’s grandfather’s will, a against his eldest son and nameskewed inheritance, subsesake, “Freddy,” whom Fred hoped quent lawsuit and the truth would assume the family business she says she found with the but who didn’t have the heart for it. urging of The New York Times, When Freddy proved to be a disthe story — as she indicates appointment, Fred turned to Donald, — won’t begin to be finished his second son, and gave him free until January, or a January reign, an open bank account, and the four years hence. paternal approval Trump suggests Until then, this is a mustthat Donald craved. read for Left and Right alike, Once you get this far into “Too but beware that it might leave Much and Never Enough,” it shouldn’t you feeling mournful — not surprise you; none of it will, going for any one person, but overforward, because you know how this all, in general: “Too Much and book ends. Long before that, though, Author, mental health professional Mary Trump, Ph.D. Never Enough” just contains a Trump shares details of growing up, (Photo Credit: Peter Serling) lot of sadness. : : noting nuances within the Trump sib-

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a&e

Finding Your Spirituality Really Isn’t Complicated Tell Trinity

BY Trinity | CONTRIBUTING WRITER Hello Trinity, After not doing anything spiritual for years, I feel like it’s time to start doing something spiritual and find some sort of personal path to follow. Any suggestions?

Sincerely, On A Path, Milwaukee, WI Hello On A Path If you’re alive and living then you’re on a spiritual path. As for finding a stronger connection to that path, here’s three hints from what the Buddhists call “being mindful:” 1) Notice the beauty in all things, especially things you can’t find beauty in 2) Acknowledge that what seems bad now will inevitably seem good, and, 3) Have faith in your intuition, your gut and your sixth sense. Also, darling, think rituals, i.e., lighting a special candle, making a group meal, having a special place you visit regularly, etc. Do something spiritual and something spiritual will happen.

Kisses, Trinity

“a while” long enough?

Sincerely, Goin’ to the Chapel, Washington, D.C. Dear Goin’ to the Chapel, This is one of the world’s greatest, unanswerable questions. Commitment in one day, one week, two months, nine months, one year? Pumpkin, living together, facing regular problems and letting time teach you both about each other is a ceremony in

connections

Dearest Trinity, I’m a single, 30-year-old youthful dresser. But my friends say I “dress more immature than youthful and I won’t get a serious date with the way I dress.” What should a 30-something person wear?

Thirty Or Thirteen, Spokane, WA Dearest Thirty Or Thirteen, I’d like to say, what do your friends know, but if they’re your friends, then they may know a bit about you. So let’s get rid of those oversized grunge pants, Eminem T-shirts and toss out your platform sneakers. Being 30 and single may mean accepting your maturity and being comfortable with it. It may also mean dressing comfortably, being less interested in fitting in and more interested in having your clothes fit well. So, honey, be yourself but shop somewhere else!

XOXO Trinity Hey Trinity, It seems like every time I go out some sloppy, uncontrollable drunk hits on me. I don’t mind drinkers, I drink myself. But when someone gets pushy and drooly, I get upset. Help!

Thanks, Pushy/Drooly Troubles, Amarillo, TX

Dear Trinity, After knowing about each other for three years and now dating and living together for six months, my girlfriend and I want to have a wedding ceremony. But some of our friends and family say wait a while. Trinity, when is

Q-mmunity

itself. In the end, I would save your wedding for at least your first year anniversary.

This way you get to save money for it.

Remember, sweetie, slow and steady wins the race. (If you do decide to wed, don’t look at the long line for divorces as my cartoon shows! It could put a damper on the bliss.)

Hey Pushy/Drooly Troubles, Frank Sinatra once said, “I hate being

around drunk people, they keep stepping on my hands.” Pumpkin, I feel your pain when it comes to being around drunks. So until the world gets a Drunk-O-Meter, try reading,

Trinity’s Witty Tips For What To Say To A Pushy/Aggressive Drunk 1. “Repeat after me. I’m too drunk to pick up anyone!”

2. “Do you know you’ve told me that exact same story, four times!”

3. “By the time my husband, the pro-wrestler returns, you better be gone!”

4. “I must bring you into the bathroom mirror so you can see just how drunk you look.”

5. “You’ve got blood coming out of your nose.

I’m sorry, I’ve got to go!”

6. “Repeat after me five times — I’m a dirty, drunken fool, who needs to go home.”

7. “Honey, a) Stop spitting on me, and b) pour your drinks on someone else. I’m leaving!”

8. “Sloppy, Drunk, Dopey and Disgusting are the only dwarfs you’ll be taking home tonight.”

9. “Please pick yourself up off the floor. Wipe the barf off of your face and go away!”

10. A nd lastly, when all else fails, try this line, “Get lost, Buddy!”

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, Gay Spirituality for the Next Generation! Learn more at telltrinity.com.

Send emails to: trinity@telltrinity.com.

space starting at $22: call qnotes for details 704.531.9988

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From Ana, with Love An Interview with Ana Ortiz

BY Gregg Shapiro | Guest Contributor AO: Oh, gosh, it would mean everything! It would also be an incredible moment not only for me as a Latin actress, but also for the LGBTQ community as a whole to have that recognition and to finally be recognized and to have our stories be told. I think we’ve heard a lot of gay stories from many different perspectives, but I can’t think off the top of my head of a Latin family taking on the idea that their son is gay and the unacceptance of that. That was the thing about “Love, Simon,” he was so accepted by his parents. In the Latin community, we don’t experience that as often as we would love to. In our community, machismo is still a big part of who we are. I think it would be a great way to crack through that ceiling and say, “Watch this show. It’s important.” And start to break those walls down.

GS: Victor has Simon to go to for advice. Is there someone that you have in your life who is your Simon and what does that person mean to you?

AO: Honestly, it’s going to sound so corny, but my mother has always been that person for me.

Actress Ana Ortiz, as mother Isabel, in a scene from ‘Love, Victor.’ (Photo Credit: ‘Love, Victor’)

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f you loved “Love, Simon,” the 2018 movie based on Becky Albertalli’s popular Y/A novel, then you will most likely feel the same affection for “Love, Victor,” the Hulu series set at the same high school from which Simon graduated and is still fondly remembered. As if being the new kid at school isn’t stressful enough for any teen, after his family — including mother Isabel (Ana Ortiz), father Armando (James Martinez), sister Pilar (Isabella Ferreira) and younger brother Adrian (Mateo Fernandez) — unexpectedly relocate from Texas to Atlanta, Victor (Michael Cimino) is also questioning his sexuality. Forced to think on his unsteady feet, Victor basically tells tall tales about himself and his love life to everyone. Everyone, that is, except for Simon (Nick Robinson), with whom he has established a correspondence. But one way or the other, maintaining the charade or coming out, is going to present all sorts of challenges. As Victor’s mother Isabel, Ana Ortiz is given an opportunity to stretch as an actress and play a wide range of emotions. In Ortiz’s more-than-capable hands, Isabel is a complex and multi-faceted character and it’s a pleasure to see such a talented actress give her all to her performance. Ortiz, who many will also remember from her portrayal of Hilda on “Ugly Betty” was kind enough to answer a few questions before the premiere of “Love, Victor.”

Gregg Shapiro: Had you seen the movie “Love, Simon” prior to taking on the role of Isabel in the Hulu series “Love, Victor,” and if so, what did you think of it?

Ana Ortiz: I did see “Love, Simon.” I thought it was a really darling, feel good movie. Something I could watch with my kids. That’s always a plus for me.

GS: What was it about Isabel that appealed to you?

AO: What appealed to me about Isabel is that there’s this expression that’s been going around a lot, “representation matters.” I don’t think we’ve ever seen a family like this. In my culture, the machismo is alive and well and so prevalent. It could be really powerful for people in the Latino community to be able to say, “Oh, that’s me. That’s my family.” For me, to play Isabel — I’m the polar opposite

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of her in so many ways. It was interesting to explore that notion that you could possibly not accept your kid because of who he loves. It’s something I’ve experienced in my own family, so to be able to portray it and not keep it in the closet — pardon the bad pun — is an exciting prospect for me. I think our community needs it now more than ever and we do it in a sweet, humorous and honest way. That appealed to me incredibly.

GS: When “Love, Victor” begins, Victor is the new kid at school. Have you ever had the new kid at school experience, and if so, what do you remember about it?

AO: [Laughs] I was the new kid at school when I went to high school. I had gone to the same school for eight years and then I went to LaGuardia in New York as a new kid. It’s so scary and so intimidating. I remember being frightened, but also, being the person that I am, just putting on a brave face and acting like, “I don’t care! This is great!

Whatever. Yeah, hi!” I think I covered it up with a lot of bluster, but inside it was a terrifying experience.

GS: Isabel is a piano teacher, and there is a wonderful scene in “Love, Victor” where you are sitting at the piano singing. For people who weren’t aware of it, you have a really lovely singing voice. Do you have any stage musicals on your resume?

AO: You are so sweet! As a voice major — and I never got to use my singing very much — I’d done some musicals. I did “Hair” and we toured Europe with that, which was super exciting. Other than that, I’ve sung background vocals for friends of mine. I recorded some songs here and there with friends. But it’s never been as big a part of my career as I wanted. When the opportunity was presented to me in this show, I leapt on it [laughs]!

GS: You have a few Emmy Award moments in “Love, Victor,” including the scene where the real reason why the family had to leave Texas for Atlanta is revealed. What would it mean to you win an Emmy for playing Isabel?

GS: That’s not corny!

AO: [Laughs] she is! She’s the smartest woman I know.

She’s kind. She gets angry at the right things. But never gives up. Always is fighting. I’ve been going to protests with her for time immemorial. I remember going with her to the No Nukes protest in Central Park when I was seven years old. She’s civically minded.

She’s the person who can talk me off the ledge. She never stopped believing in me. She never told me to choose a different career when I wasn’t getting jobs when I was bartending and waitressing. She never let me give up on myself. She’s my biggest and strongest supporter. I can’t imagine my life without her.

GS: As you did in “Ugly Betty,” you are once again playing the mother of a gay son in “Love, Victor.”

What does it mean to you to be playing a character such as that?

AO: It has been life’s joy and honor to play these women.

Hilda on “Betty” and Isabel. They are polar opposites. Hilda accepted Justin and him being gay before he even knew he was gay. She would fight for him and she never let anyone talk smack about him. Whereas Isabel is the other side of that coin. She’s very religious. It’s not that she doesn’t fully accept her son; she’s terrified that he will go to hell or that he’s a sinner and making a “choice” to live this life, when we know that it’s not a choice. To be able to go through her arc and that learning experience was so intense and crushing and also illuminating. It was this whole bag of emotions that I’ve gotten to play for the first time as an actress. Like I said, usually the moms that I play are superaccepting and wild. Isabel is much more conservative and strait-laced. But she’s still a creative person. She’s so layered. Both of these women were my absolute favorite characters to play.

GS: W.C. Fields quote about never working with children. You’ve now worked quite a bit with children — would you agree with Fields?

AO: [Laughs] I love W.C. Fields! My experience is that I love working with kids. The kids I have been blessed with on this show are some of the most talented. [They] are ones to watch. We will be seeing them for many years to come.

They care so much about the work. There wasn’t selfies and Instagram. They were really focused on the work. Half of them wouldn’t even bring their phones to the set because they really wanted to focus. I was absolutely blown away by these kids! “Ugly Betty” was the same thing with Mark Indelicato, who played Justin, my son. And he was only 10 or 11 when we started. He’s now one of my closest friends in the entire world. I just hung out with him yesterday. Now, animals on the other hand…[laughs]. I think I’d have to be drunk like W.C. Fields to work with animals. : :

life

Our People: Shann Fulton Chair for Charlotte Black Pride

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BY Mykah Buff | QNotes Staff Writer

hair of Charlotte Black Pride (CBP), Shann Fulton, was born in Savannah, Ga. and grew up in different areas of South Carolina’s Low Country. In 2013, Fulton relocated to Charlotte from Columbia, S.C., and has been an active member of the community ever since.

Fulton said they’ve always carried a passion for volunteer work and wanted to find a way to get involved after settling into life in the Queen City.

During their search to find an outlet to provide service to the community Fulton discovered CBP and immediately began volunteering in the organization. qnotes had the opportunity to get acquainted with Fulton and ask them a few questions about their work with CBP as well as other areas of their life outside their efforts in the community.

able with identifying as non-binary. Most of my life I identified as a lesbian. A stud. Because it was more acceptable, people understood it easier. Because of the encounters I’ve had and the information I’ve learned, I’m now very comfortable with identifying as non-binary.

Can you tell me what first attracted you to CBP? Charlotte Black Pride encompassed everything that I am. I was in Charlotte, black and I’m proud of who I am. When I began volunteering, members were very welcoming. It felt like a family. I also want to highlight that Charlotte Black Pride removed the word “gay” from our name officially early in 2018. We get feedback every year, and we consistently heard that the term “gay” doesn’t encompass everyone in the spectrum. We listened to our community and removed it. So we are now just Charlotte Black Pride (CBP).

At its core, what does CBP represent? How do you carry out this message in your everyday life?

CBP represents promoting positive images of the black LGBTQIA+ community. We want to empower others to love themselves from their core. We represent social awareness and uplift the community. CBP embraces and celebrates diversity. We are the vehicle for but not limited to the black LGBTQIA+ community. We promote embracing your culture.

I carry out this message by giving back to the community on a consistent basis. It can be through volunteering in the community, giving donations, both financial and in order forms. I speak to people about the resources that are available. I just constantly seek ways to help care for and push other members of my community to be their best selves.

From starting out as a volunteer to your current position as chair, how has your role in CBP changed or evolved, and in what ways?

My experience started off as helping out wherever I was needed. Set up, break down, registering and inviting in guests. As a volunteer coordinator, I recruited volunteers for all events. When I became co-chair I became more involved in creating events, fundraising and obtaining sponsors. Assisting other board members with tasks surrounding events. As chair, I’m more involved in every aspect of obtaining sponsorships to recruiting new board members.

Has your involvement with CBP influenced or shaped the person you are today? If so, how?

Since being involved with CBP, I’ve been able to meet and understand people from everyone spectrum of the Queer Community. It’s help me to grow and learn more about the people I represent. It’s also help me to be more comfort-

What are some things that come to mind when you look back and reflect on the last eight years that you’ve worked with CBP? Growth, unity, acceptance, leadership, community and social justice. And there is so much more work to do. I can only speak for the past seven years, as I started volunteering in 2013. Although, there are still inequities, CBP has grown immensely in obtaining more donor and sponsor opportunities.

A number of individuals fail to understand the vital need for movements like Black Lives Matter, some even make lewd comments and even mock the campaign with questions like, “why isn’t there a white lives matter?” — How would you respond to this type of thinking or attitude?

No one says All lives don’t matter. Black lives at this time are and have been experiencing racism, police brutality and overall inequities for 400+ years. The Constitution doesn’t even recognize black people as a whole human being. That’s like saying your arm is broken, and you have pain in your thumb, but you decide to have surgery on your thumb first when it only had a little pain. So you just leave the leg broken? No, you repair the leg first!

In terms of social acceptance, how has your time living in Charlotte, North Carolina differed from other areas of the South you’ve resided in?

I’ve always just been me.

I can’t remember any experiences that were really life-changing, so I’ve been fortunate. I have been called a “dyke” and really just had lots of experiences of people staring. I still have that experience in Charlotte, however overall being part of the LGBTQIA+ community here is more acceptable. There is a conversation surrounding acceptance almost daily. Further south there is much less conversation. Its line is really discussed and you have very little resources.

Have you experienced any significant challenges associated with your gender identity of being non-binary?

The challenge I face is probably what most non-binary or gender non-conforming people experience. People getting it confused with being bisexual. People not wanting to accept that you don’t want to identify as a specific gender. Just having to educate so much because people already have what they think you should be in their minds.

What’s your favorite color?

Blue...any shade of blue.

What do you like to do to decompress or relieve stress?

Meditation is important for me to stay grounded. Relaxing on a beach, going to a shooting range, or walking or riding a bike.

Also, spending time with my love, family or my grandkids.

What’s your favorite hobby or pastime?

Volunteering, riding ATVs (all-terrain vehicle) and playing cards.

Can you name three or four words that describe you best?

Philanthropic, resilient, loyal, hopeless romantic. : :

Six Reasons Why Drugs and Alcohol Are Not the Answers to Your Problems Mental Health

BY Stanley Popovich | guest WRITER 1. Drugs and alcohol are dangerous to your health.

Drugs and alcohol can ruin your health. Regardless of what you may think, drugs and alcohol do nothing but add more problems to your anxieties, fears and depression.

Many people have died because they abused drugs and alcohol.

2. Avoiding your problems does not work.

Avoiding your fears and your problems through the use of drugs and alcohol is not the answer. Eventually, you will have to confront your fears and mental health issues.

Save yourself the time and heartache and confront your problems now rather than later. You will be better off in the long run.

M

any people turn to drugs and alcohol to help overcome their daily stresses and anxieties. This can be a very big mistake and can make your problems even worse.

Here are six reasons why drugs and alcohol are not the answers to your mental health issues.

3. Drugs and alcohol can make things difficult.

Drugs and alcohol can make your problems even more complicated. Many professionals and former addicts have said that drugs and alcohol will only add more misery to your situation. Be smart and learn how to cope with your mental health issues the right way.

4. You won’t learn how to manage your problems.

When you decide to face your fears, you will begin to learn how to manage your stresses and anxieties. As time goes by, you will become better in dealing with your mental health issues. This will make it easier to find the answers to your fears and anxieties.

5. Talk to a reformed addict.

If you still think that drugs and alcohol will solve your problems, then try talking to someone who has already been down that road. By talking to a reformed addict, you will get the truth on how drugs and alcohol can destroy your life.

6. Getting professional help is the best option.

There are many professionals out there who can assist you in dealing with your mental health issues. There is nothing wrong with asking for assistance and making excuses will not help your situation. Talk to a counselor who can increase your chances of getting better. : : Stan Popovich is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods.” For information, visit managingfear.com.

July 24-Aug. 6, 2020

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qnotes

July 24-Aug. 6, 2020