QNotes, July 28, 2017 by QnotesCarolinas

July 28-Aug. 10. 2017

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July 28-Aug. 10 . 2017

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qnotes news & features

Taking the fight for equality across the U.S.A.!

The Human Rights Campaign has launched a full scale initiative that will be activated in all 50 states. page 7

arts. 7 entertainment. HRC createsnews. HRCviews. Rising 8 News Notes: Regional Briefs 9 News Notes: U.S./World Briefs 20 Charlotte Black Gay Pride

a&e / life&style 10 10 13 19 22 23 25 26 27

Drag leaders in history Drag pageant systems Honoring lost local queens Dishing with Buff Faye Changing My Reflection Alison Moyet Interview Tell Trinity Q Events Calendar Our People: Carrie Chanel

opinions & views

more news & features

Alison Moyet British singer is in good form. page 23

Dishing with Buff Faye Chatting with the four North Carolina Entertainer of the Year winners page 19

7 Defining the diva

July 28-Aug. 10. 2017

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July 28-Aug. 10 . 2017

July 28-Aug. 10. 2017

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HB2/HB142 Update

HRC inspired by governor’s HB2 victory Org commits $26 million to grassroots project by Maria Dominguez :: qnotes staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. — National pro-LGBTQ non-profit the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) was inspired by its own influence in partnership with Equality North Carolina (ENC) in the 2016 gubernatorial race. The immense grassroots effort coordinated through the two organizations raised public ire for former Gov. Pat McCrory’s staunch defense of House Bill 2 (HB2), the notoriously transphobic “bathroom bill.”

HRC data revealed that 57 percent of voters on Election Day cited HB2 as the reason they voted against Gov. McCrory. Now, Gov. Roy Cooper’s victory set a standard for LGBTQ activism; the power of grassroots campaigns on election results was proven. “Our grassroots army of over 3 million has proven that, even in the face of unprecedented challenges, we can make incredible progress and defeat the hateful politicians who’ve been emboldened by Donald Trump when we organize and mobilize,” HRC President Chad Griffin said upon announcing the HRC Rising campaign. “The power and determination of the 10 million LGBTQ voters and our allies across America will only continue to grow stronger in the face of discriminatory attacks on our rights and freedoms.” The national organization has committed itself to continuing to fight anti-LGBTQ legislation with a similar method used against HB2. HRC

recently announced a $26 million campaign called “HRC Rising,” aimed at mobilizing local allies in LGBTQ rights battleground states. The campaign will seek nationwide results, with particular focus in areas where anti-LGBTQ laws are most extreme, or most frequently considered. Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona and Nevada are all on the oranization’s focused agenda. In these regions, the campaign will focus on supporting pro-equality candidates, as well as expanding HRC’s personnel by 20 new full-time employees. The increased staff and volunteers will work “to expand local partnerships, recruit additional volunteers, mobilize constituents, register voters and… flex political muscle in legislatures and at the ballot box,” the organization announced. The partnership with ENC was so fruitful, HRC is now intensifying its focus on similar partnerships with local organizations. “Staff and volunteers will work with state and local organizations and partners in coalition,” the press release announced, “to bolster efforts to advance equality, defend the LGBTQ community against attacks, and deliver wins for proequality candidates in order to lay the groundwork for future legislative victories.” The unprecedented attack on LGBTQ rights that was HB2 continues to have influence despite its “repeal” early this year. HB 142, a “compromise” that HRC steadfastly denounced, may be another legislative target for the campaign against inequality. “HB142 merely repackages the discrimination of HB2 and calls it by a different name,” HRC and ENC executives wrote in a June 30 letter to Gov. Cooper. “We need the bold, decisive leadership you promised and a seat at the table when it comes to our civil rights.” HB 142 is just one of dozens of anti-LGBTQ bills that HRC and local partner organizations have committed to battle in the coming election cycle. Despite a tenuous victory in Gov. Cooper’s election, there is plenty more work to do both in North Carolina and nationwide. “It’s not enough to resist the hateful policies and attacks coming from the Trump-Pence regime,” Griffin said. “We’ve got to accelerate the pace of progress toward full equality and secure protections for LGBTQ people in states and communities across the country. That’s why we’re going on offense.” : :

qnotes connect July 28-Aug. 10, 2017 Vol 32 No 07

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

contributors this issue

Buff Faye, Della Dietrich, Maria Dominguez, Torie Dominguez, Lynette Matusik, Lainey Millen, Gregg Shapiro, Jeff Taylor, Trinity

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Graphic Design by Lainey Millen Photography: Scott Griessel via

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Mission:

The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBT and straight ally communities of the Charlotte region, North Carolina and beyond, by featuring arts, entertainment, news and views content in print and online that directly enlightens, informs and engages the readers about LGBT life and social justice issues. Pride Publishing & Typesetting, Inc., dba QNotes P.O. Box 221841, Charlotte, NC 28222 ph 704.531.9988 fx 704.531.1361 Publisher: Jim Yarbrough Sales: x201 adsales@goqnotes.com Nat’l Sales: Rivendell Media, ph 212.242.6863 Managing Editor: Jim Yarbrough, editor@goqnotes.com Assoc. Editor: Lainey Millen, specialassignments@goqnotes.com Social Media Editor: Jeff Taylor, jeff@goqnotes.com Staff Writer: Maria Dominguez, maria@goqnotes.com Production: Lainey Millen, x205, production@goqnotes.com Printed on recycled paper.

Kind of a Drag: Op-ED

Defining the diva Drag queen or female impersonator? by Della Dietrich :: guest contributor

n the drag community, impersonating a female is understood when you go out in drag, and female impersonator is a lovely term to dress it up or help someone understand what is being done/accomplished. But I say, call a spade a spade, and just use the term “drag queen.” It is an accepted term in our community, although not every time a positive one. But when one uses other terms like female impersonator or (trans)gender illusionist, those of us who love it are accused of putting on airs. That’s why I say just keep it real and say drag queen. You’re in Dr.A.G. anyway (dressed as girl), and when we speak highly of the trailblazers in 1969 who “cut up” outside the Stonewall Inn in New York City, we say drag queens every time, don’t we? We sure do. Drag queens are a big part of our community, whether we like it or not, whether we’re embarrassed of it or not. As I write this, I think of the old, ever-popular quote from the very first Miss Gay America, Norma Kristie, brought to the stage by one Norman Jones of Little Rock, Ark.: “Drag is the definitive form of gay entertainment.” He did not say female impersonation. Ahem. As far as gender identity implications go, I’m thinking that a transgender girl who does stage work might not look favorably on the term drag

queen unless they are “old school” and have been doing it for a while; I’m not sure. Here, the term “impersonator” might go over better. Does that mean that the drag queen term is reserved for guys who live as guys (“boy queens”) and do stage work? I don’t think so. But what I do know is, it is a quick way to keep an entertainer in check or on their feet! I’ve seen some conniving queens run up to young gentlemen who were being pursued by the more beautiful entertainers and exclaim, “Well, you know she’s just a drag queen!” — as if it were a put-down! Thank goodness that there are those who get even more excited to confirm that their suitors were indeed born male and still have the plumbing intact. This brings me to whether I think the off-stage life might be different for a queen versus an impersonator. I have a feeling there would be little to distinquish one from the other. “Do it” or “live it,” everyone likes attention and appreciation for their theatrical contributions. Many have great talents that need to be displayed on a stage, and some have made lucrative careers out of it. After all, I think all of us just want to contribute and make a living and be loved by family and friends, whether we’re a drag queen or a female impersonator. : :

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upcoming issues:

08.11.17: Charlotte Pride Preview Back to School/Campus Safety Advertising Space Deadline: Aug. 2 08.25.17: InFocus Charlotte Advertising Space Deadline: Aug. 16

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news notes: carolinas compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

Founders’ dinner welcomes Jones GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Guilford Green Foundation will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a Founders’ Dinner on Sept. 22, 7 p.m., at Starmount Forest Country Club, 1 Sam Snead Dr., and will welcome activist Cleve Jones as its special guest speaker. Jones was the creator of the AIDS Memorial Quilt and was one of the leading activists during the advent of the AIDS pandemic. The Quilt is considered one of the world’s largest community arts projects that honors thousands of individuals who succumbed to the disease. He was also mentored by San Francisco, Calif.’s Councilman Harvey Milk. Jones authored “When We Rise,” a memoir about his early experiences in the Gay Rights Movement, which was published last year. This book was the basis for an ABC mini-series that aired earlier in 2017. Cleve Jones The foundation is currently seeking sponsors for the Photo Credit: Greg Hernandez event. Email info@ggfnc.org to learn more. via Flickr. CC License. Tickets go on sale soon. In other news, in June, Guilford’s board added Camille Brady, John LaLonde, Talmadge Blevins, Melvy Shaw, Stacy Calfo and Jeff Sylvester to its leadership team. And, the organization will hold its Green Queen Bingo Under the Stars on the rooftop deck on Sept. 15, 6 p.m., at The Elm Street Center, 203 E. Elm St. Enjoy cocktails with the Queens at 6 p.m., followed by bingo at 7 p.m. Sponsors are being sought. Email Bill at bill@theeventguysnc.com for more information. Tickets are $15/advance, $20/at the door and $12/student with government identification. info: ggfnc.org.

Charlotte Former priest leaves legacy

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Rev. Dr. Nancy Ledins, 84, died during the week of July 16 and was a member of Wedgewood Church. Ledins began life as William Griglak and became a Roman Catholic priest in 1959 and underwent gender reassignment surgery in 1979, The Charlotte Observer reported. At the time of her transition, she was serving as a priest and thus became the first woman to hold such a position. This did not come without issues. She was shot at, had her car bombed and received dead animals in the mail, the Observer added. In recent years she found a renewed purpose at Wedgewood where she performed baptisms, preached, served communion and so much more. A celebration of her life was held at Wedgewood on July 23. info: wedgewoodchurch.com. charlotteobserver.com.

Band seeks performers

CHARLOTTE, N.C.. — The Charlotte Pride Band will perform at the Charlotte Pride Festival and Parade on Aug. 26-27 and has extended an invitation to musicians to join them. They are seeking those who play brass, woodwinds and percussion instruments, as well as guards. No audition is required. Rehearsals will begin on Aug. 10, 7 p.m., at the John Crosland School, 5146 Parkway Plaza Blvd. The band will also hold its fall concert, “Quiet City,” on Nov. 12, 5 p.m., in Heaton Hall, Myers Park Baptist Church, 1900 Queens Rd. The program features a selection of music composed by LGBTQ composers such as Peter Tchaikovsky, Leonard Bernstein, Cole Porter, Aaron Copland, Samuel Barber and Jennifer

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Higdon. The band commissioned and will premiere a work written to honor the 49 people that died in the Pulse Nightclub shootings in Orlando during the evening’s program. Tickets are $15 and are available from band members, online or at the door. info: charlotteprideband.org.

‘Rent’ comes to CLT

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The iconic Tony Award-winning and Pulitzer Prize recipient “Rent” will be making its Queen City run from Sept. 26-Oct. 1 at the Blumenthal Arts Belk Theatre, 130 N. Tryon St. The touring company is staging “Rent” in honor of the play’s 20th anniversary. Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 26-28, 8 p.m. on Sept. 29, 30, 2 p.m. on Sept. 30, 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 1 and 7 p.m. on Oct. 1. Tickets are selling fast and start at $25 and are available online. info: blumenthalarts.org.

Coastal OBX Pridefest comes to the coast

NAGS HEAD, N.C. — The 7th Annual Outer Banks Pridefest will be held from Sept. 22-24. OBX Pride, Inc. has organized the three-day event which includes activities ranging from a free festival at the downtown Manteo, N.C. waterfront, sunset cruise and various entertainment options. There will also be plenty of time for sun and fun at the beach. “We’re thrilled that for the seventh year, the Outer Banks continues to embrace the LGBTQ community,” said David Miller, Outer Banks Pridefest organizer. “And with our move to the Manteo waterfront and the addition of the Miss Outer Banks Talent Show, we have some new surprises for everyone.” Festivities kick off on Friday evening at 5 p.m. with a Sunset Booze Cruise sponsored by MJs

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Tavern in Norfolk, Va. Participants can enjoy a free open bar and on-board DJ dance club. After the cruise, head over to Pamlico Jack’s. 6708 S. Croatan Hwy., in Nags Head, N.C. for a Cliff Warner concert and Pride & Joy Drag Show at 10 p.m. The following day will be the festival which includes concerts and entertainers. Get out of the sun and continue the fun at Pamlico Jack’s where Lady Bunny will entertain with her comedic drag cabaret show at 10 p.m. Then on Sunday, enjoy Jennifer Warner’s Drag Brunch at Avenue Waterfront Grille, 6720 S. Virginia Dare Tr. at 11:30 p.m. Warner is the festival’s hostess and will emcee the new Miss Outer Banks Pride Talent Show and Sunday’s Drag Brunch. Complete details are available online, including ticket costs and more. The three-day event is funded by a grant from the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau with major support from MJs Tavern and the Outer Banks Community Foundation. Proceeds from OBX Pride’s fundraisers and events support local LGBTQ youth through sponsorship of two Outer Banks Gay-Straight Student Alliances and the new Allen Aldridge Memorial Scholarship Fund. info: obxpridefest.com.

Eastern Black Pride slated

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Fayetteville Black Pride’s Gravity Weekend will be held from Aug. 11-14. On Aug. 11, head out to Radium Nightclub, 984 Old McPherson Church Rd., at 9 p.m. for a “Toxic” kick-off party featuring music by Vjuan Allure. Cost is $10 before midnight and $15 afterward. The next day, go back to Radium Nightclub at 9 p.m. for “Rise” the Main Event hosted by Case King and music by Sedrick Drayton. Cost is $15 before midnight and $20 afterward. On Aug. 13, 2 p.m., skip over to Rowan Park, 725 W. Rowan St., for the free picnic and appreciation culmination event. Attendees can enjoy kickball and volleyball games. info: facebook.com/events/1628664997462779.

Triangle Fest hosts gala

RALEIGH, N.C. — The Crape Myrtle Festival will hold its Grand Gala on July 29, 7 p.m., at the Contemporary Art Museum, 409 W. Martin St. The annual affair’s theme this year is “A Little Party Never Killed Nobody!” and is focused on the Gatsby/flapper/1920’s era and costumes are encouraged. A cash bar will be available, as well as live music and complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $40 through July 28 and $50 thereafter and are available online. info: crapemyrtlefest.org.

SAGE hires coordinator

RALEIGH, N.C. — SAGE Raleigh has hired a new program director, Joseph Wheeler, for the organization. Wheeler has a background in diversity training and strategic planning and looks forward to using his skills to help further the group’s efforts. “It is an exciting time to move into the position of coordinator for SAGE Raleigh. We have a highly engaged group of people who are committed to planning and organizing the

varied activities and events,” he shared. In other news, SAGE Raleigh and Triangle LGBT Couples & Friends are hosting an afternoon of “Rainbow Karaoke” on Aug. 6, 4 p.m, at the LGBT Center of Raleigh, 324 S. Harrington St. with DJ Chuck. Sing and dance while enjoying the music and camaraderie. Snacks, soft drinks and wine will be provided. A suggested contribution of $10 per person or any amount will be graciously accepted and will benefit the SAGE Raleigh Events Fund. SAGE Raleigh also has an increasingly popular walking group that meets on Wednesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. Check the website for scheduled outings. info: lgbtcenterofraleigh.com.

Chorus hires new director

RALEIGH, N.C.. — The Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus has hired a new artistic director, Michael J. Kroeplin to oversee musical direction of the chorus’ 23rd concert season. Kroeplin holds a B.S. in Psychology and a Master’s in Arts Education. He has been singing and performing professionally since he was seven years old and was a member of The LaCrosse Boys’ Choir, an affiliate of the Vienna Boys’ Choir. And, Kroeplin has formal training in music and piano theory, music history, vocal technique and operatic applications. He has also created and directed musical shows and concerts. While not engaged in the music field, he has been an active member of The Imperial Court System, as well as the Human Rights Campaign of California and various AIDS organizations. info: tgmchorus.org.

Western House concert approaches

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The Heron House of Asheville, 171 Bull Creek Rd., will host a house concert with Beth York and Barb Easter on July 29 at 2 p.m. The couple’s program, “Women Together in Song!” will feature the married couple’s music from over two decades of sharing their music together. They are experienced singers, songwriters and instrumentalists who have been involved in the women’s music movement. This is a women’s event and attendees can book accommodations at the inn at $66/night on a first-come, first-served basis. Cost is a $20 love contribution. info: heronhouseasheville.com.

Youth org set to race

HICKORY, N.C. — OUTright Youth of Catawba Valley will launch its 1st Annual OUTRight’s Amazing Race on Aug. 19, 9 a.m., beginning at the center’s parking lots at 748 4th St. S.W. Patterned after the CBS show “The Amazing Race,” OUTright’s event combines challenges that are physical, mental and sometimes even silly which will send teams of two to four all over the Greater Hickory metro area. OUTright will host a family-friendly community after party with music, food trucks, breweries and wineries. Admission is free and open to all. When the teams complete the final challenge in OUTright’s Amazing Race, they will race to be the first team to step onto the Winner’s Mat and the party continues, organizers shared. Racers will compete for cash prizes and bragging rights.

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Cost to participate is $25 for teams of 2-4 players. A $400 first-place prize will be awarded. The event is designed to appeal to young adults (Millenials and Gen Z) and brings focus to the Greater Hickory Metro Region as a “community that welcomes people from all ethnicities, faiths, disabilities, genders, sexual orientation, and socio-economic backgrounds. … That our community is a safe and welcoming place to build towards a brighter future together,” organizers added. Participants will be able to bring recognition and awareness about the organization as they race along the undisclosed race course with nothing but the clues that they win at the 12 challenge sites to guide them. Sponsors and vendors may still be accepted. Contact race coordinator Anna G. Watson at awatson@outrightyouthcv.org to learn more. info: outrightyouthcv.org.

Pride celebration slated

HICKORY, N.C. — Catawba Valley Pride will be held on Sept. 16, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., at the SALT Block Foundation, 243 3rd Ave. N.E. Enjoy fun, food and community in this free, kid-friendly event and what the organization terms as the “world’s shortest Pride parade.” Vendor and non-profit applications are being accepted for the event at bit.ly/2tALPJo. Vendor cost is $50 and non-profit space can be secured at $25. info: catawbavalleypride.org.

Community mourns loss

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Noccalula “Lula” Moon, 62, died on July 13 at home. She is survived by her mother, Jeanne M. Weaver, of Birmingham, Ala., brother, Paul Weaver, and sisters, Claudia Smalley, Phoebe Weaver Stern, Mary Croninger and Julia Bernstein.

A celebration of life will be held to honor her memory on Sept. 22 at Unity of the Blue Ridge, 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Rd., in Mills River, N.C. A drum circle will begin the memorial at 6:30 p.m. with Wild Bodema leading as guests arrive. At 7 p.m. the Celebration of Life will take place followed by refreshments at 8:30 p.m. info: bit.ly/2gXdcr7.

South Carolina Org hosts benefit

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Comedian and Emmy Award-winning Leslie Jordan will take the stage as emcee for “Musical Miscast,” a production to benefit the Alliance for Full Acceptance on Aug. 12, 6 p.m., at Dock Street Theatre, 135 Church St. Tickets are $75/general admission and $125/VIP and are available online at bit. ly/2uQiXwB. General admission ticketholders are entitled to a pre-show reception with cash bar and silent auction. Those with VIP tickets will have access to a private pre-show reception with the cast and Jordan, including hors d’oeuvres and an open bar plus early access to the theatre to select seats. info: affa-sc.org.

Palmetto State greets Black Pride

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The 12th Annual South Carolina Black Pride, “My Pride Is…,” will be held from Aug. 14-20. The celebration kicks off with a family night event on Aug. 16, 7 p.m.,at Anchor Lanes, 1057 Lake Murray Blvd., in Irmo, S.C. Cost is $12 per person for three hours of bowling. On Aug. 17, 5:30 p.m., a Community Forum, “Health Disparities in the LGBT Community,” will be held at the Richland Library North

Main Branch, 5306 N. Main St. Refreshments will be served. A Welcome Reception will be held on Aug. 18 at Wet Willie’s, 800 Gervais St., at 7 p.m. with entertainment and food provided. On Aug. 19, a Cultural Arts & Wellness Festival will be held at Earlewood Park, 1113 Parkside Dr., at 2 p.m. Enjoy vendors, food, entertainment by nearly two dozen artists and a health and wellness fair including HIV/ AIDS testing by CareSouth Carolina and more. Also, there will be an LGBTQ Greek Village and panel led by Gamma Chapter of Phi Nu Kappa Sorority, Inc. Admission is free. On Aug. 30, 1 p.m., a Unity Picnic will take place at Lake Murray, 2101 N. Lake Dr. Cost is $3 per car. info: southcarolinablackpride.com.

Regional Fest showcases films

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“Pushing Dead,” “Queer Heroes,” “Russian Doll,” “Sensitivity Training,” “Signature Move,” “Something Like Summer,” “Still of the Night,” “Switching Channels,” “Until I Looked at You,” “Very Sordid Wedding,” “Wild Abandoned Side of Me,” “Whole Earth Opening Wide” and “World Is Not Enough.” Visit the theatre’s website to get a full description of each film, as well as times and location of each. Individual and 10-pass tickets are on sale and are available online. A film festival family day with fun table activities for children will be held on Aug. 12, 9 a.m., including the showing of “Land Before Time” at 11 a.m. in Fletcher Hall. Free popcorn and soda will be provided to all who attend. The theatre welcomes volunteers to assist with the festival. Become a Durham Wayfinder and then sign up for the festival. info: carolinatheatre.org/films/festivals/ncglff.

Campus Scene

DURHAM, N.C. — The NC Gay & Lesbian Film Festival will be held from Aug. 10-13 at The Carolina Theatre of Durham, 309 W. Morgan St. The festival features over 40 films in documentary and fictional format ranging from transgender, men’s and women’s shorts to full-length features. The list includes: “After Louie,” “All the Time in the World,” “Apricot Groves,” “Behind the Curtain,” “Big Kahuna,” “Cat Skin,” “Center of My World,” “Comes the Morning,” “Death and Life of Marsha,” “Diamonds Never Lie to Me,” “Dickinson Avenue,” “Fabulous Allan Carr,” “Forever Hold Your Piece,” “Gloria and Grace,” “Hear My Heart Burst Again,” “Hello Again,” “Hello Cupid: Farrah,” “Hooked,” “Kept Boy,” “Land Before Time,” “Let the Flight Begin,” “Men with the Midas Touch,” “Million Happy Nows,” “New 30,” “Nightfall,” “No, Mr. Bond, I Want You to Die!,” “Open Books,” “Painted Ocean,”

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Campus Pride’s National LGBTQ-Friendly College Fair Program will be rolling into the Queen City on Aug. 26 during Charlotte Pride. The resource is available to LGBTQ and allied students searching for post-secondary educational opportunities in an environment that will be supportive and inclusive. Concerns are addressed by college and university representatives, giving students peace of mind. Participants will learn about schools’ academic programs, student life and campus safety. This event is free of charge and is open to students and their families. School representative registration is available online. info: campuspride.org.

been an author and speaker focusing on living as an LGBTQ Christian. In a letter to the organization, he shared that he was grateful for the support he had received and the commitment to a shared mission. “Running this organization for the last 16 years has been absolutely the most incredible experience of my life, and I will always treasure the memories and the knowledge of how we’ve changed the world together. As sad as I am to say goodbye, my hope and prayer for this organization is that it will always stay grounded in a passion for Jesus Christ and uphold an ongoing commitment to living out His light and love in all things.” He added, “As for me, I continue to feel a calling to change hearts and minds in the church for the sake of those who still don’t have that support. Even though I am no longer involved at GCN, I will still be speaking out on the issues that matter to our community and doing all I can to support those in need. I’m as passionate about this work today as I was back in 2001, when GCN was just a website I was running out of my apartment!” He said that he would share his future plans at justinspeaks.com. The board shared that Lee has been a pioneer in “helping LGBTQ individuals accept

the truth that God loves them, just as they are. Through GCN, he helped those people find a spiritual home. Because of Justin’s dedicated work, countless lives have been changed. The Board of Directors of GCN is grateful for Justin’s years of service.” The organization has hired an interim executive director, Isaac Arculeta, a graduate of the University of Colorado and Denver Seminary. He is a licensed professional counselor and the founder and director of the iAmClinic in Denver, Colo. which has a special focus on the needs of the LGBTQ community and their religious families. He is also the founder and co-director of the iAmProject, an initiative providing workshops, seminars, and other programs on sexuality and gender to churches, colleges and other groups, GCN said. Archuleta’s iAmProject has also played a key role in helping influential evangelical churches become communities of faith that are fully welcoming toward the LGBTQ community, allowing people to serve at any level of church leadership. Director of Operations Constantino Khalaf will continue to direct the GCN staff as it prepares for conference, retreats and other ongoing events. info: gaychristian.net.

College fair hits Carolinas

news notes: u.s./world compiled by Lainey Millen :: qnotes staff

Network and founder separate Neither party will comment on the reasons behind Justin Lee the situation except to say Photo Credit: Facebook that “it was a practical business decision intended to allow for the growth of this important work.” Lee and the board both remain allies and are committed to creating “…a world in which the next generation of LGBTQ youth will grow up fully loved and embraced by their families, churches, and neighbors; and where Christians worldwide will live up to their calling as instruments of grace and defenders of the outcast.” In addition to this change, the organization will also be adopting a new name to reflect “the diversity of the ministry and the community” it serves. This was PORTLAND, Ore. — On July 19, The Gay announced at the 2017 Conference held in Christian Network (GCN) announced that its Pittsburg, Pa. The change will be revealed at board of directors had reached an agreement the 2018 Conference in Denver, Colo. to an amicable separation with Founder and Lee started the organization in North Executive Director Justin Lee due to irreconcilCarolina 16 years ago. Over the years he has able differences. This became effective on May 4.

July 28-Aug. 10. 2017

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Kind of a Drag

The spotlight isn’t just for the stage Drag queens who lead the fight for LGBTQ progress by Maria Dominguez :: qnotes staff

women — rose from the dust of violence and took he ancient roots of the entertainment industry are insepaflight as leaders. rable from the concept of drag, although the term itself is Johnson came to the Stonewall Inn that night a recent development. Men have dressed as women for to celebrate her 25th birthday, and found a very difperformances from ancient Greece to Shakespearean times, ferent coming-of-age awaiting her. Rivera, only 18 even across continents as kabuki troupes demonstrate. at the time, had known her share of struggles after Drag queens as we know them today have evolved as being ejected from home at age 11. Drag queen astoundingly as their art. Once taboo and underground, female leaders took her in, and both she and Johnson impersonation has not only stridden proudly into the light of day; repaid their community a hundredfold. for some queens, the spotlight shining down is an opportunity to The police violence that Johnson and Rivera make a difference. faced and fought against that night made an indelible Two self-professed drag queens made an enormous difference on and after June 28, 1969 when the Stonewall Inn uprising see next page u began. Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson (far left) at a rally in New York City, N.Y. Rivera — who with today’s terminology may have identified as transgender Photo Credit: New York Public Library

Drag pageant systems National resource listings by Torie Dominguez :: guest contributor

Miss Gay America Founded: 1972; Nashville, Tenn. Owner: Mad Angel Entertainment; Frederick, Md. Titleholder: Suzy Wong Requirements: Contestants must be “men who live as men.” Body augmentation below the neck is prohibited, as is the use of female hormones. Competition Categories: Talent; Male Interview (contestants are interviewed in male attire, outside of their drag persona); On-Stage Question (in drag persona); Evening Wear; Pageant Presentation (costume in keeping with a theme designated each year by the reigning Miss Gay America) Affiliated Pageants: Mr. Gay America — founded 1983 as Mr. Gay All-American, which ceased operation in 2009 before being revived in 2017 as Mr. Gay America; current titleholder, Kyle Ean Miss Gay USofA Founded: 1979 as Miss Gay USA; reconstituted under new ownership 1985; Miss Gay USofA title adopted 1995 Owner: USofA Pageants LLC; Dallas, Texas Titleholder: Roxie Hart Requirements: Contestants must be “biological males” at least 21 years old by the date of the national pageant and able to provide state-issued identification. Affiliated Pageants: Miss Gay USofA at Large — founded 1989; contestants must meet same requirements as for primary competition as well as weigh at least 200 pounds; current titleholder,

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July 28-Aug. 10 . 2017

Sasha Lauren Miss Gay USofA Classic — founded 2003; contestants 40 years of age or older; current titleholder, Dominique Sanchez Miss Gay USofA Newcomer — founded 2010; contestants must not have won any state or regional title or been a finalist in any major national pageant, and may not have appeared on any dragbased reality TV show; current titleholder, Vanity St James Mr. Gay USofA – founded 2009; current titleholder, Desi Andrews Mr Gay USofA At Large — founded 2009; current titleholder, Dakota Whitney Mr. USofA MI — founded 2008; contestants are “biological females” at least 21 years old who compete as males; current titleholder, Eddie Broadway Mr. USofA MI Classic — founded 2012; contestants 33 years of age or older; current titleholder, Ivory Onyx Miss USofA Diva — founded 2014; contestants are “biological females” 21 years old or older who compete in femme persona; current titleholder, Seduction Dickerson Miss Continental Founded: 1980; Chicago, Ill. Owner: JF Enterprises, Inc.; Chicago, Ill. Titleholder: Jazelle Barbie Royale Requirements: Miss Continental is considered the principal national pageant open to transgender as well as cisgender performers. Unlike many other major drag pageantry organizations, Miss Continental does not demand that contestants live as males outside of competition. Affiliated Pageants: Miss Continental Plus — founded 1991; plus-size contestants; current titleholder, Keke Velasquez-Lord Miss Continental Elite — founded 2004; contestants age 40 years old or older; current titleholder, Fontasia L’Amour Mr. Continental — founded 2004; male entertainers; current titleholder, Antwaun Steele Entertainer of the Year Founded: 1991; Louisville, Ky. Owner: The SLS Pride Foundation, a non-profit organization supporting causes including the arts and education; Louisville, Ky.

Titleholder: Alexis Gabrielle Sherrington Competition Categories: Presentation (introduction in which contestants are judged on appearance, stage presence and communication); Creative Evening Wear; On-Stage Question; Talent; Creative Swimwear (applicable to Femme and Mr. EOY contests only) Affiliated Pageants: Mr. Entertainer of the Year — founded 2002; contestants are male entertainers; current titleholder, Rolly Villaverde King Entertainer of the Year — founded 2011; contestants are male impersonators; current titleholder, Preston Dickerson Entertainer of the Year Femme — founded 2015; contestants are female entertainers; current titleholder, Bella Nicole Harlow

All American Goddess Founded: 2006 Owner: All American Goddess Pageantry Titleholder: Antwanette Roberts Requirements: Contestants “must have been born male” but are not limited in gender expression outside of competition and may have undergone sex reassignment surgery and/or hormone therapy. All competitors must be at least 20 years plus one day old at the time of the pageant. Competition Categories: Personal Interview; Creative Costume; Evening Gown; Talent; On-Stage Question (finalists only) Affiliated Pageants: All American Goddess at Large — founded 2008; contestants must weigh at least 210 pounds; current titleholder, Alexis Nicole Whitney All American Gent – founded 2012; male entertainers; current titleholder, Cielo Whitney : :

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Ambrosia Starling fights for justice and equality. Photo Credit: Personal Facebook Page

mark on LGBTQ history. These queens became leaders through their resistance, and afterward, the work of the organization they founded together: Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries, or STAR. STAR’s mission was to aid the most vulnerable of LGBTQ people: the homeless, young people of color who were persecuted for their gender identities as well as their race. Johnson and Rivera were queens in the truest sense — strong, proud leaders who wouldn’t accept less than they and their people deserved.

In the modern day, drag queens are still standing up as leaders. In 2015, when marriage equality was granted throughout the U.S., conservative backlash prompted action from one such queen. Ambrosia Starling of Dothan, Ala., took up the mantle of opposition against her state’s chief justice, Roy Moore. Moore tried to block access to same-sex marriage for LGBTQ couples in Alabama. Starling headed up protests against Moore and found a national spotlight. She also found her place as an activist, a new LGBTQ leader in a new time of need. After the 2016 Pulse massacre, Starling did not retire her platform or her crown. “I try to make sure that each time I go to a public event I tell these children: ‘Standing and breathing and living here today, you have an opportunity that 49 people do not,’” Starling told Slate writer and fellow queen Miz Cracker. “Make it count — participate. If we do not use the rights we already have, they will not give us more.” Starling’s leadership strengthens the movement for LGBTQ rights, and more leaders have risen to the community’s aid. Bob The Drag Queen, best known as season eight winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” is another leader who strives to use her spotlight for progress. Bob’s work began long before winning her title, and continues beyond the season finale. Drag Queen Weddings was just one of Bob’s projects, launched in 2010 to demonstrate in support of marriage equality. Now, Bob has taken up another cause key to the health and happiness of the community — youth, homelessness and the organizations that address them. Trinity Place Shelter benefitted from Bob’s brand, extending its work to transition LGBTQ youth from the New York City shelter system. Bob says that her decision to become an LGBTQ advocate was a simple moment. She realized her own power to make change on an everyday commute — this time dressed in her full, stunning style.

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“The first time I got on the train in full drag I realized that every single person — every single person — stopped dead in their tracks to look at me. I didn’t even say anything. All I did was stand on the train,” Bob told Slate. “And I thought to myself: Well, now that I have everyone’s attention, I should say something meaningful.” : :

Bob the Drag Queen is a ‘fierce’ supporter of many initiatives. Photo Credit: dvsross via Flickr. CC License.

July 28-Aug. 10. 2017

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July 28-Aug. 10 . 2017

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Kind of a Drag

Honoring lost local queens Drag performers memorialized by Maria Dominguez :: qnotes staff

s the proud, public face of the LGBTQ community, drag queens are mourned and remembered in a special way. In past decades, too many scintillating performers — and good hearts — have been lost. For this year’s Kind of a Drag issue of qnotes, we’d like to pay homage to some of the local queens who are so missed. Although we cannot include everyone, memories last much longer than words. We honor all the lost queens who have graced the local LGBTQ community with their talent and leadership.

“I want you to remember one thing about Brandy,” said friend Greg Brafford at the memorial. “That girl had balls. She wasn’t scared of a redneck in Lexington, North Carolina, when she was growing up. She wasn’t scared of the police in Florida when they locked her up. She wasn’t scared of a six-foot-five Marine with a baseball bat in Jacksonville. She wasn’t scared of a fire when they burned her house down. She wasn’t scared of a bomb when they blew her bar up and she sure as fuckin’ hell wasn’t scared of cancer.”

Arabia Knight-Addams A traveling talent who delighted audiences all over the state, Arabia Knight-Addams died in 2012 after more than a decade of performance and accolades. Winning dozens of titles over the years, this gorgeous goddess of the stage is memorialized in stunning photos with the towering crown she deserves.

Divinity A former business partner to qnotes publisher Jim Yarbrough, John Green, aka Divinity, became a transgender advocate when she was most needed. Founder of the Carolina Trans-Sensual Alliance and chair of the 1994 Southern Comfort Conference, Divinity published the newsletter All the Beautiful People before dying in 2004 of Hepatitis B complications. “She was insistent that we all — especially queer people — treat each other with love,” said longtime friend Holly Boswell.

Aretha Scott A memorable performer who aimed for laughter as much as love, Aretha Scott, aka Franklin Freeman, was murdered in 2002, five days before she was set to testify against a CharlotteMecklenburg Police Department officer. Her case remains officially unsolved, although friends and followers have not stopped asking questions. “She was always willing to help people,” friend Terry Burris reminisced. “She was always just a lot of fun and a good person. I think that’s how she’d want to be remembered.” Bam Bam LaTour Curtis Johnson, 27, died in a car accident in 2004. He was a former administrative assistant at qnotes. He began drag under the tutelage of Ricky Carter, aka Boom Boom LaTour, who was shocked by the sudden tragedy. “Curtis was one of my best friends — it was like losing a child that you had raised and nurtured,” Carter told qnotes then. “He was supposed to stay around and help me, but at least I know he’ll be up there giving me some guidance.” Boom Boom LaTour Carter followed his protégé out of this life in July 2016 at 63 years old. Boom Boom had a long career in drag, providing a safe haven for the LGBTQ community at her performances throughout the 1970’s and beyond. A comedic performer who would have your sides split halfway through her annual rendition of “the Twelve Drunken Days of Christmas,” Boom Boom was known as “a grandmother to everyone in the drag community,” according to qnotes columnist Buff Faye. Brandy Alexander As fierce and proud as Danny Leonard as he was performing as Brandy Alexander, this drag diva and gay activist died of cancer in May 2016 at 70 years old. Leonard moved mountains for the LGBTQ community, raising record-setting funds to support victims of the early AIDS crisis, and standing strong through outright hatred, violence and persecution, including multiple unjust arrests and an arson attack against her business, Friends Lounge in Jacksonville, N.C.

Gerri O’Neal O’Neil, legally named Tim Irby, was owner of now-defunct drag queen store Everything on East, later renamed Everything East of the Sun. Irby performed in drag in popular venues such as Oleen’s and the Scorpio, and was a former Miss Gay Charlotte America in 1983. Grand Prix An unforgettable stage presence was lost to complications of HIV/AIDS during the epidemic’s peak. A towering, titillating diva, Grand Prix was mourned by friends and fans alike. Imaje Devereux Falling victim to homicide in April 2009, Jimmy Ali McCollough, 34, performed colorful drag with a classic dramatic flair. McCollough was found stabbed near Club Emeges in Fayetteville, N.C. and his death was investigated as a hate crime. The warmth of Imaje’s full-lipped, scarlet smile remains. Toni Lenoir Upon discovering her declining health due to HIV/AIDS, Toni Lenoir committed suicide to the shock of all who loved her. A well-known local drag queen with many admirers, Lenoir has since been remembered for her signature performance style and unforgettable personality. Tracy Morgan One of the names synonymous with the Charlotte drag scene, Tracy Morgan, aka Clay Lambert, died of heart disease backstage after performing at the Scorpio in 2007. She left behind scores of fans gathered throughout her 20-year career performing drag. “She was so glamorous,” said former qnotes writer Miss Della. “She was an amazing entertainer. I always loved to see her dance. She was sexually provocative and she was primal and intense. There’s a reason she was known as “The Sex Kitten of the South.”: :

July 28-Aug. 10. 2017

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