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DIRECTOR’S CHAIR There’s nothing really pressing on my mind today. The sky is a beautiful bright blue, the sun is shining, the flowers are in full bloom and, yes, the birds are singing right outside my window. I know, it’s like a Disney movie. As much as I might normally want to roll my eyes at how cliché that is, it’s hard to do that when it’s all in such perfect harmony. Yes, my darlings, spring is just a few days away! And aside from temperatures here in South Florida pushing the mid-eighties, when I would prefer the low sixties, and the fact that we could use a bit of rain, nature is bringing me almost complete perfection outside my window. Today, I am reminded of how lucky we really are. Yes, we’ve had some bad weather for a couple of months, but nothing that even remotely compares to the loss and suffering that the people in Haiti and other places continue to endure. Looking out at the park-like setting in my community of homes, I cannot even begin to imagine how I would feel if it were nothing more than a pile of rubble—a mangled reminder of all the life lost. It’s so easy for us to become consumed with our day-to-day nonsense. The car with a flat tire. The traffic on the highway. Last night’s disagreement over the kid, money or sex. The slow Internet connection. The Tupperware lids that accidentally got thrown away. I could go on and on…seriously. These things can take us from a great to grumpy in the blink of an eye. But when you stop, think and put it all into perspective, it all seems so petty in comparison to what others are going through. We seem to put so much energy into deciding whether to see the glass as half-full or half-empty, that most of the time we don’t realize that if you put our glasses next to someone in Haiti or any number of other places where tragedy has occurred, our glasses are pretty darn full. So, this month, take the time to look around you with a little perspective. Go outside and see all the beauty around you. Plant some flowers. Kiss your beloveds and be thankful you have them to disagree with. Leave a few minutes early so the traffic doesn’t bother you. Use the Gladware…literally and figuratively. Soak up every minute of your Disney movie and make sure you acknowledge everyone and everything in the credits See you next month.
Tina Sordellini Managing Executive Editor
MANAGING EXECUTIVE EDITOR Tina Sordellini PUBLICITY DIRECTOR SHE ESPAÑOL EXECUTIVE EDITOR Maria Espinal ASSOCIATE EDITORS Marissa Cohen • Shawn Nicholson Denise Warner • Donna Solomon-Carter CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Marissa Cohen • Verónica Espinal The Village Sage • Miriam Cronkhite Tina Sordellini • Denise Warner CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Verónica Espinal • Yadira Claralt Shawn Nicholson • Angie Sowers Juan Saco Mironoff • Boi-Photography SALES ASSOCIATES Maria Espinal • Marissa Cohen ads@shemag.com DISTRIBUTION JR Davis • Randy Justice SUBSCRIPTIONS www.shemag.com EDITORIAL OFFICE 6511 Nova Drive, #173 • Davie, FL 33317 954.354.9751 office info@shemag.com • www.shemag.com facebook
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SHE: WOMEN OWNED. WOMEN OPERATED. WOMEN EMPOWERED! The ideas and opinions expressed in She Magazine do not necessarily reflect opinions of Shemag, L.L.C., She Magazine, or of editors or staff. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization should not be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of that person or organization. All advertising subject to approval by She Magazine. She Magazine/Shemag, L.L.C. is not responsible for unauthorized use or copyright infringement as present in camera ready, client provided ads, nor is it liable for any loss or suit arising from submitted advertisement, copy, photography, or artwork. Reproduction of She Magazine, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without the express written consent of Shemag, L.L.C.
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in this issue
march 2015 / volume 17 / issue 2
18 “Trust me, I am very butch also and I love it!”
16
features 16 PATRICIA VELASQUEZ “I think that is a very internal and personal process. If my coming out now helps someone else, then that means I have done this correctly.” 18 MIAMI BEACH CENTENNIAL The City of Miami Beach is marking its 100th anniversary with a centennial week-long celebration that culminates with this iconic music festival. 20 LGBT VISITOR CENTER IN MIAMI BEACH Checking Out The Miami Beach LGBT Visitor Center’s Women’s Programming. 26 GLSEN ON FACEBOOK’S ADDITION LGBT youth experience nearly three times as much bullying and harassment online as nonLGBT youth, but also find greater peer support, access to health information and opportunities to be civically engaged.
she espaÑol 24 NOTICIAS 25 SOY MUJER
photos 04 SHE SCENE 12 CHERRY PIE FRIDAYS
departments 06 DIRECTOR’S CHAIR 10 MULTIMEDIA 14 IN THE NEWS 22 SHE GIRL 26 GOOD READS 30 SCOPES
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>> READ OUR FREE DIGITAL EDITION AT WWW.SHEMAG.COM
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multimedia
with marissa cohen
Madonna’s 13th studio album Rebel Heart (Super Deluxe Edition) is a two CD exploration of both sides of the iconic Material Girl’s personality: her romantic, dreamy side and her “rebellious renegade side.” With track titles like “Bi*tch, I’m Madonna,” I’m ready for a whole new experience of Madonna’s pop culture sass and fire. Nicki Minaj, Nas, Kayne West, and Mike Tyson join Madonna on Rebel Heart. Available March 10.
Beyond amazing, is The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt by comic genius Tina Fay. Kimmy has just escaped from 15 years in a cult, most of which was spent living underground dressed like a Little House on the Prairie extra. Now, she’s free, bringing her innocence, light up sneakers and unbreakable spirit to the Big Apple. It will stream on Netflix (March 6), so just surrender to your couch now. With Ellie Kemper, Jane Krakowski.
Everly opens into rough territory: Selma Hayek being gang raped, as ordered by a notorious gangster. Oh, and every bad guy in the area is coming for her in a B-movie style bloodbath. Before you can say, “Yippie-ki-yay,” Hayek pulls a Christmastime Bruce Willis and destroys every killer in her apartment. Thanks to Hayek’s dignity and strength, you’ll believe every blood-soaked frame. With Laura Cepeda, Aisha Ayamah. In theaters now.
Phyllis Hyman’s You Know How to Love Me was first released in 1979 and was Hyman’s most successful album. The expanded edition of this R&B classic comes out on March 24, with several previously unreleased bonus tracks, including “You’re the One.” The title track “You Know How to Love Me” quickly became a classic and was covered by artists such as Lisa Stansfield.
The Ellen DeGeneres-produced One Big Happy follows Lizzy, a lesbian who is pregnant with her best friend Luke’s baby, and Luke is in love with a free-spirited British woman. Liz Feldman, whose writing credits include Xena: Warrior Princess and 2 Broke Girls, is the lead writer here. Between that and the gorgeous brilliance of Kelly Brook and Elisha Cuthbert, this will for sure be one big happy. Airs on NBC, March 17 at 9:30 pm .
Insurgent, the second film in the Divergent trilogy follows Tris in the aftermath of the uprising. The Erudite faction leader will stop at nothing to get to both Tris and Four, as they struggle to find the truth about why the Abnegation faction sacrificed their lives. Shailene Woodley’s Tris is more seasoned and deadly this time, as she continues to confront her demons. With Kate Winslet, Octavia Spencer, Theo James. In theaters March 20.
NOT TO BE MISSED: Tune in to the best wedding of the season as Brittany and Santana get hitched on the series finale of Glee (March 20, 8 pm, FOX). As” Brittana” rides off into the sunset, we’ll say goodbye to Rachel, Klaine and all of the others. She 10 03.15
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pandora events presents cherry pie, every friday at azucar nightclub in miami, for women who love women. see you there next week! photos by rock ur photo & production / view more photos at www.shemag.com
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IN THE NEWS
SAME-SEX MARRIED WAR VETERAN DENIED EQUAL VETERANS BENEFITS
HRC ON JEB BUSH:
AN “LGBT-FRIENDLY” REPUBLICAN SHOULD SUPPORT MARRIAGE EQUALITY AND DISCRIMINATION PROTECTIONS FOR ALL LGBT AMERICANS During the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) at the end of last month, some media reports have suggested that Jeb Bush is the “gay-friendly republican” of the 2016 cycle – even during the same week he is scheduled to meet with antiLGBT activist Tony Perkins. The Human Rights Campaign’s Fred Sainz released the following statement: “At the end of the day, it isn’t rhetoric or hiring practices that count, it’s what a candidates stands for. A candidate who is truly committed to LGBT equality will support marriage equality and support protecting all LGBT Americans from discrimination. While the tone of Jeb Bush’s language and word choice may have changed, he hasn’t yet articulated different policies from when he opposed marriage equality and opposed discrimination protections as governor. There are more questions than answers on where Bush stands today.” That same week, the Human Rights Campaign released a comprehensive research report on potential 2016 candidates that
highlights their record on LGBT issues. The ongoing project can be found at www.hrc. org/2016republicanfacts. The Jeb Bush report highlights how as governor of Florida, he consistently opposed equality for LGBT Americans.
the eLiZaBeth tayLor aiDs FoUnDation Joins GLaaD’s neW hiV anD aiDs aWareness caMPaiGn On the 83rd birthday of Hollywood icon Elizabeth Taylor, Feb 27th, GLAAD announced a new partnership with The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF) and AIDS United to renew the attention of Americans, the entertainment industry and news media on the fight to end HIV and AIDS once and for all. “Elizabeth Taylor devoted her life to the fight against HIV/AIDS for 27 years. She took advantage of every opportunity to speak out and keep the subject of HIV and AIDS top of mind for the public. The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS
Foundation is proud to partner with GLAAD and AIDS United to reignite the conversation at such a critical time. The country has not seen a decrease in the number of new infections in over a decade despite the tools that exist to help reduce transmission by 96%,” said Joel Goldman, Managing Director of The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and GLAAD announced the creation of a new series of public service announcements (PSAs) that build on the legacy of Elizabeth Taylor’s advocacy and will feature celebrities, medical professionals, and ordinary Americans in an effort to call attention to the role everyone can play in helping end HIV and AIDS. The first PSA is being produced by the Tony Award winning Martian Entertainment and will be released this month. glaad.org
The American Military Partner Association, the nation’s largest organization of LGBT military families, strongly condemned a move by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), requiring a female Iraq war veteran, Melissa Perkins-Fercha, to pay back her federal veterans benefits tied to her legal wife and daughter because the state of Texas does not recognize her same-sex marriage. “Melissa put her life on the line for our country, and now our country is telling her that her family doesn’t count...” said AMPA President Ashley Broadway-Mack. “Who are they to tell me that my marriage is not valid and my daughter is not mine?, said Mellisa. “...how does the rest of the federal government recognize my marriage and daughter but the Department of Veterans Affairs does not?” Melissa served our nation for five years on active duty, during the September 11th attacks and in Operation Iraqi Freedom. After the military stationed her in Texas, she left active duty and received a 50% disability rating from the VA. In 2012, Melissa and her wife traveled to the state of Washington to legally marry. Her wife then gave birth to their daughter back in El Paso, TX, in April of 2014. She added her wife and daughter as dependents with the VA, and as a disabled veteran with dependents, should have been entitled to the benefits that she earned.
After applying, she received a letter from the VA telling her the state of Texas does not recognize her same-sex marriage, therefore the federal government would not recognize her wife or child as dependents for the purposes of veterans benefits. However, the VA failed to remove her wife and daughter from their system resulting in her being compensated at the higher rate that disabled veterans with dependents receive.
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GAY NUPTIALS WORKSHOP TO GUIDE SAME-SEX COUPLES DOWN THE AISLE Panache Style, invites loving couples to the Gay Nuptials Workshop, an informational seminar aimed at helping same-sex couples navigate the wedding-planning landscape. The intimate workshop, which will be held on Sunday, March 22 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Hagen Park Community Center (2020 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305), will feature a series of informational presentations, vendor exhibits and light refreshments. During the Gay Nuptials Workshop, South Florida wedding professionals will showcase ideas, products and expertise for every step of the wedding process. Couples will learn more about the importance of having a planner, how to personalize a wedding and how to choose the right flowers, décor and entertainment. Guests will also enjoy an open bar, exhibits from more than 20 gay-friendly vendors, dessert samples, presentations from notable guest speakers, and more.
Tickets for Gay Nuptials are $20 or $30 per couple and can be ordered online at www.mygaywedding.org or by calling Panache Style at 954-356-9377. For more information about Panache Style, visit www.panachestyle.com .................................................................................. March is Women’s History Month: This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Women’s History Movement. Women’s History Month had its origins as a national celebration in 1981 when Congress passed Pub. L. 97-28 which authorized and requested the President to proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History Week.” In 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed Pub. L. 100-9 which designated the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.” Between 1988 and 1994, Congress passed additional resolutions requesting and authorizing the President to proclaim March of each year as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, Presidents Clinton, Bush and Obama have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.”
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on the cover
by maria espinal
Born Patricia Carola Velásquez Semprún on 31 January 1971 in Zulia, Venezuela, this beautiful international supermodel, film director, award-winning activist, actress and entrepreneur now can add author to her many phases. Is she looks familiar to you, Patricia was one of the first Latina fashion models in the late 1990s to grace the runways for top haute couture design houses. You might have seen her in one of The Mummy films, or perhaps on Uggly Betty, The L Word or Celebrity Apprentice. On February 10th her book, Straight Walk: A Supermodel’s Journey to Finding her Truth, was released. Hard to put down at times, in her memoir Patricia will take you through her struggles growing up in poverty in Venezuela; how her relationship with Sandra Bernhard made her realize she was and is a lesbian; her previous relationship; her daughter Maya and why now is the right time for her coming out. Let’s start with the most obvious question. Why is this the right time for you to publicly come out, even though it was known before? It’s very difficult to face your past and talk about things that weren’t pleasant. I think I put off doing anything like writing a book or being public about my life for a long time. I have done work with the children of the Wayuutaya Foundation, teaching them to be proud and honest. I thought it was time to set an example for them. That meant admitting my truth. Writing the book—that was a part of that journey. I often told stories here and there to friends or people I met. The response was always the same: you need to write something and inspire others. It took a while to muster up the strength, but the children inspired me to finally do it. Have you felt at times that our community “expects” that celebrities, who we know are gay, make their sexuality public? Did you ever feel that pressure before? I can understand how our community expects us celebrities to make our lifestyle public. I have not necessarily felt the
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pressure to speak publicly about myself. I think that is a very internal and personal process. If my coming out now helps someone else, then that means I have done this correctly. Having said that, it seems to make a difference in the way society sees our community when a celebrity or anyone in the public eye comes out. How do you experience that as a member of the LGBT community? It’s human nature to have icons in any culture, gender or sexuality. If my coming out can inspire others, then I am super happy. There is a sentence in the epilogue that caught my attention and made me stop to really think: “Time moves too quickly to save something for later.” How have you applied that to the different stages in your life? The sentence is applied to things that matter from the heart to things that have to do with setting examples. When I said that, I was referring to the time when we have to actually make a difference in the world. That’s how I meant it. When we are young, we think we have all the time in the world. Now, as I am growing older, I feel I need to set an example. I found the book very easy to read and hard to put down at times, maybe because I am a Hispanic gay woman and can relate to you in many ways. Besides those factors (Hispanic, gay and woman), how do you hope that maybe an American, straight man will relate to your memoir? Thank you for your comments. My story is universal, though for some readers it might be about coming out. I hope girls and boys can identify with the book. It’s a story about living your truth, whatever truth that might be. I also found it interesting how your accepting being gay related to you hiding your “sexiness,” as you put it, in your private life unless you got paid. How did you come to terms with that and how much of that was the image of what society thinks a lesbian should look like? I’m not so sure coming to terms with my sexiness and being gay was related to society. As far as the way women or gay women were supposed to look, I think it was more internal, something that I had to come to terms
with on my own. But I can understand how you might see it that way. So, how does that butch/dyke side of you make you feel now? (laughs) Trust me, I am very butch also and I love it! Now that your book has been released, have you read it again? Is there anything else you now wish you had included that you didn’t and want to share with our readers? There are many stories that were written that did not make it into the book, stories that I’ve always thought were going to be a big part of it. That is why sometimes it is hard to define my book. My only purpose with the book was to inspire others to live their truth. There are untold stories that were left out that will maybe happen in another book, so stay tuned! I would’ve liked to acknowledge and thank many more people than just the ones that are mentioned in the back of the book. Being one of six children, having an Indigenous background from Latin America (and I love how proud of that you are—and you should be!), how hard was coming out to your immediate family? Sometimes we don’t live our truth because we think we are hurting others. In reality we are stopping them from living their journey. I’m not going to tell you the whole story because it’s in the book, but the reactions of all of the members of my immediate family were very unexpected. Being part of Hollywood, how much do you feel the role of Hispanic actors has changed over the years? The role of the Hispanic actresses in Hollywood has changed tremendously from when we started. I mean look at the Academy Awards this year when it was a Mexican that won big again. [Our roles] are changing in movies and television, but that is also something that happens because we as audiences are the ones buying tickets at the movie theaters. I think the industry in general understands how important we are as a big minority, but really it has come from us because we are the ones buying those tickets and watching our TV shows. There’s still a lot more to do. We’re still not there yet… which is good because it gives us something to continue to fight for.
let’s talk about your most recent film, Liz in September, which was released in Venezuela on September 24th. It will be released in the US on DVD soon. I read great reviews from the media, but how did the audience take this lesbian-themed film? This film is wonderful. It was inspired by the play Last Summer at Bluefish Cove and was directed by Fina Torres. It just got distribution in the US. The film was well received by the media as well as by the audiences because the film’s story is universal. It’s love. Love can take any shape or form and I think audiences can relate to that. The US and other countries should be able to see it very soon. How do you feel the LGBT community has grown or changed in Venezuela? Sure, it has grown. The issue is that in Venezuela we are dealing with so many day-to-day problems that are occupying people’s minds like food and safety. It’s almost like communities are taking care of very basic needs. We are still very far away from getting to a place of discussing LGBT matters. You are in touch with your Indigenous heritage at all times and that is why The Wayuutaya Foundation was founded. How does the foundation fulfill you as part of that community and its future? The Wayuutaya Foundation has grown tremendously and the indigenous communities have embraced me throughout the years. I really don’t have any expectations other than just continuing to grow the foundation and continuing to help them, especially with the primary things like food, water, education and medical attention. For me, if we can continue to expand that feeling of self-esteem, of pride, in these very, very underprivileged communities then that will mean that we got the job done. Last but not least, I am sure most of our readers want to know how is your personal life? I’m currently living with my partner in a very loving and committed relationship!
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Get social with patricia: patriciavelasquez.com @wayuuprincess
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feature Checking Out The Miami Beach
LGBT Visitor Center
While South Beach is considered one of the hotest spots in the country for fun and excitement, the LGBT Visitor’s Center located at 1130 Washington Ave., is a one-stop destination for information, publications, wireless internet access, LGBT curious and weekly community events. The LGBT Visitor Center can also assist with any last-minute needs such as hotel and excursion reservations, dining and attraction recommendations as well as being a community resource to assist you during any occasion. In addition, The visitor’s center will be hosting the following programs for LGBT women. • The Ladies of Pride Mixer March 31 • 7pm-9pm The LGBT Visitor Center opens its doors with PRIDE for “The Ladies of Pride Mixer will be an excellent event for LBT individuals in the community to find out what exciting events and entertainment Miami Beach Gay Pride has in store for them with the Women’s Programming. The Pride team is definitely electrified for Pride weekend and they cannot wait to share the exciting plans that have been created.” • Financial Planning for Gay Women April 16 • 7pm–9pm Join us for a dynamic, informative discussion on financial planning for gay women (individuals and couples). All areas of planning will be addressed including investment, insurance, and overall retirement planning. Get a fresh, objective perspective to help you achieve your long term goals. • Path 2 Parenthood April 21 • 6pm–9pm For lesbians interested in becoming moms, there are a number of viable routes that can help you to realize your goal. Whether you are single or part of a couple, LGBT Family Building is easier than ever before. However, you must learn the legal and medical ropes in order to keep yourself and your family safe.
• The Lesbians’ Guide to Legal Marriage May 20 • 6pm–9pm The LGBT Visitor Center is proud to be hosting The Lesbians Guide to Legal Marriage panel discussion. Leading the panel will be Sasha Westerman-Keuning Esq., who will address the state of marriage equality in Florida and nationally. Additionally, Attorney at Law Karen Lungarelli will discuss pre & post nuptial agreements and divorce and Financial Planner Allison Polk will cover the subject of finances for newlywed couples. • The Life of the Third Gender June 17 • 7pm–9pm Education on a transgender person’s life, struggles and viewpoints can help the general public understand why the fight for equality is far from over. The Life of the Third Gender is a presentation targeting individuals who have always had questions, with no answers. Presented by a Trans woman of color who has seen her share of prejudice, hate and indifference, Ms. Aryah Lester makes herself available to bridge the divide between ignorance and lives saved. • There will also be a Ladies Mixer at the LGBT Visitor Center in April, June and August, as well as various Cultural Excursions. The Visitor Center is funded and operated by the MDGLCC Foundation, Inc., the non-profit Foundation of the Miami Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. Stop by the Visitor Center and pick-up a copy of its membership directory, as well as your free copy of She Magazine! For more information on the LGBT Visitor Center and programs call: 305-3978914 or visit gogaymiami.com. RSVP for any of the programs above by emailing its Executive Director, Lori Lynch, at lori@ gogaymiami.com.
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FEATURE A Celebration Not To Be Missed!
Global superstars Andrea Bocelli and Barry Gibb headline a great list of artists, which also stars Gloria Estefan, in Hard Rock RISING—Miami Beach 2015 on Thursday, March 26. The City of Miami Beach is marking its 100th anniversary with a centennial weeklong celebration that culminates with this iconic music festival. The all-day oceanfront music festival will take place on the sand at Eighth Street and Ocean Drive. Starring some of the most beloved and acclaimed performers in the world, they include official DJ of the Miami Heat, DJ Irie, English guitarist and singer songwriter Dave Mason, Grammy award-winning musician Jon Secada, Jamaican reggae and hip-hop artist Ky-Mani Marley, jazz flautist Nestor Torres, Miami Beach jazz vocalist Nicole Henry, and Jamaican reggae band Third World, all under the musical direction of multi Grammy awardwinning producer Rudy Perez. Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records and major contributor to Miami Beach’s music scene, will be honored at the event. “This is how we celebrate!” said Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine. “The historic cen-
tennial events celebrate our legacy and mark the start of the next 100 years by increasing awareness for a global climate initiative with Miami Beach, not only rising above but leading the way.” Other featured performers include Afrobeta, Astra, Betty Wright, Cabas, Fantine, Javi Garcia, Kevens, Mariana Vega, Marlow Rosado, Raquel Sofia, Tavo Botero, Terrell Carter, The Beethose Band and Tree House Band, amongst many others. Gates open on Thursday, March 26 at noon for an afternoon beach party with the temporary amphitheater opening at 5 p.m. for the evening’s performances. As a city with a rich cultural and entertainment history, Miami Beach will feature a 100-hour, non-stop historic festival beginning Sunday, March 22. In addition to Hard Rock Rising Miami Beach, festivities include a fashion runway, concourse car show, an astrophysical concert, beachside wedding for 100 couples, a naturalization ceremony for 100 new U.S. citizens, world-class CAA tennis exhibition and more. All events are free and open to the public. Visit them at MIAMIBEACH100.COM
WHAT TO DO, WHERE TO GO CHERRY PIE Every Friday • 10PM Azucar Nightclub • 2301 SW 32 Avenue, Miami • pandoraevents.com WINTER PARTY FESTIVAL Mar 4 - 9 • Various Locations winterparty.com ICON—WOMEN WHO CHANGE THE WORLD , ART EXHIBIT March 10 - 27 The Pride Center • 2040 N. Dixie Hwy., Wilton Manors • pridecenterflorida.org Reception March 27 • 6PM - 10PM FLORIDA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL Through March 15 • 10AM - Sunset Quiet Waters Park • 401 S. Powerline Rd. Deerfield Beach, FL • ren-fest.com VIP EXHIBIT OPENING AS SEEN ON TV: AN EXPLORATION OF LGBT CHARACTERS: 1954-1979 March 10 • 7PM – 9PM Stonewall Museum – Wilton Manors Gallery • 2157 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors GFLGLCC QUARTERLY NETWORKING LUNCHEON, PRESENTED BY THE CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY. March 18 • 11:30AM - 1PM J.Marks Fort Lauderdale 11245 N. Federal Highway • gflglcc.org HOLAM EVENTS PRESENTS LESBO GO-GO GONE POSTAL March 21 • 10PM That Bar • 3270 NE 33 Street GET LUCKY T DANCE March 29 • 3:30PM The Manor • 2345 Wilton Drive TAMPA PRIDE PARADE & STREET FESTIVAL March 28 • 10AM 8th Ave. between 15th Street & 17th Street • tampapride.org JACKIE EVANCHO March 29 • 7PM Broward Center 201 SW 5 Avenue • Fort Lauderdale MIAMI BEACH GAY PRIDE April 10 - 12 Various times & locations miamibeachgaypride.com
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SHE GIRL
Kyra // fort lauderdale, fl // pisces
See more photos online at www.shemag.com / by sobe images
Dream Girl: I’m engaged to mine. Dream Job: Professional Dancer and Makeup Artist. My occupation: Professional Dancer and Pet Service Owner. My pets: I am a wiener lover—my dachshunds Brutus, Popeye and Olive Oyl. My mother thinks I: Am out of mind. I love my Mom! Turn-ons: Freckled shoulders, great eye contact, confidence and funny. Turn-offs: No sense of humor/personality and cockiness. Sensitive Body Part: Back of my neck. My Best Quality: My personality. Secret Fetish: Ice. I have a weakness for: Mac and Cheese. I like to wear: Sweatpants and a shirt that has the word dance somewhere on it. If you could have one super power, what would it be and why?: Talk to animals, so I can be the voice for those who have none. What breakfast cereal best describes you? Fruity Pebbles. last book I read was: High Impact by Kim Baldwin. If my life were made into a movie, my part will be played by: Jenna Dewan. most memorable date: Candlelight dinner on the beach. Celebrity’s butt I would most like to squeeze: Jennifer Lopez. The cartoon character I am most like: Gru. The strangest place I’ve ever been naked: Living room full of people who were not naked. The weirdest thing I ever ate was: Gizzards. My favorite quote: “Live, Laugh, Love, Dance.” French Fries, French Vanilla, French Toast or French Manicure? Hands down, French Toast. The last movie I went to a theater to see was: Foxcatcher. Your house is on fire. Besides a loved one, what is the one inanimate object you’d grab? My appointment book. I can’t live without it. My favorite flower: Lily. I just won a million dollars. The first thing I am going to buy is: An apartment building. My favorite TV show: Criminal Minds. If I could have one wish granted, I would wish: There weren’t so many stray and abused animals. My coming out was: Intense. I came out with a bang and told my family and everyone I know in less than two weeks. If you were to become an activist in the LGBT community, which organization would you choose and why: Human Rights Campaign, so I could become an advocate for our youth. I think our community needs: More equality with each other. she 22 03.15
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noticias Centroamericanos LGBTI se defienden de estigmas y abusos A pesar de las agresiones y los abusos sufridos en la universidad por ser una mujer trans, la salvadoreña Daniela Alfaro no claudica en su meta de graduarse como licenciada en educación para la salud. “Hace falta mucha tolerancia en la universidad hacia nosotras, pensé que sería diferente al bachillerato, pero no”, dijo a IPS esta estudiante de tercer año de carrera en la Facultad de Medicina de la pública Universidad de El Salvador, en la capital del país. Rechazada por el resto de su familia, Alfaro solo tiene el apoyo emocional y financiero de su madre, “la única que no me volteó la cara”, según narró. Como ella, muchas personas de la comunidad LGBTI sufren cada día en América Central vejámenes por tener una orientación sexual o una identidad de género diversa, dijeron activistas de Guatemala, Nicaragua y El Salvador entrevistados por IPS. Los acosos, las discriminaciones y agresiones recibidas en la universidad por Alfaro han venido de sus propios compañeros de estudio, profesores, trabajadores y autoridades universitarias. Ha puesto varias denuncias desde 2010 ante las autoridades universitarias por agresiones sufridas en el baño de hombres del recinto académico, el que debe utilizar. “Pero no toman en serio mis denuncias porque soy trans”, narró la joven de 27 años. Alfaro ha experimentado el fenómeno de la invisibilidad de las personas LGBTI, que ocurre cuando no hay respuesta de las instituciones o funcionarios porque desestiman las denuncias simplemente por el perjuicio hacia quienes no son heterosexuales, afirmó Carlos Valdés, de la guatemalteca Organización Lambda.
México, segundo lugar de América Latina en homofobia La intolerancia en México se presenta como un estigma. A pesar del aumento de visibilidad que ha sufrido el colectivo LGTB, siguen siendo numerosas las violaciones de los derechos de la población mexicana, y especialmente de este colectivo. Así lo atestigua un reciente informe emitido por la Organización de las Naciones Unidas que especifica que México ocupa el segundo lugar en América Latina en casos de violación a los derechos humanos y delitos cometidos contra la comunidad LGBT.
La ONU rechaza la discriminación a la comunidad LGBT en Colombia La Oficina en Colombia del Alto Comisionado de las Naciones Unidas para los Derechos Humanos, manifestó a finales de Febrero la importancia de poner en práctica los ideales de derechos humanos como la igualdad y la dignidad de todas las personas, sin distinción alguna por su raza, etnia, religión, ideología, idioma, orientación sexual, identidad de género, o cualquier otra condición. Así mismo, frente a polémica generada en los últimos días por la resolución de la Universidad de la Sabana frente a la homosexualidad, la organización reiteró que desde hace 25 años, hay un consenso internacional con el que la homosexualidad no es considerada una enfermedad. El 17 de mayo de 1990, la Asamblea General de la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), retiró la homosexualidad de la Clasificación Estadística de Enfermedades. ‘‘El debate suscitado en el país por el matrimonio y adopción por parte de parejas del mismo sexo convoca a desterrar prejuicios y creencias erróneas que violentan el derecho a vivir sin discriminación de lesbianas, gays, bisexuales, y personas trans e intersex (LGBTI) ’’, aseguró la Oficina de la ONU para los Derechos Humanos en un comunicado. Para la organización, la ley debe proteger el interés superior de la niñez a tener un hogar, así como el derecho de todos los seres humanos a conformar una familia.Finalmente, la ONU invitó a la sociedad colombiana a dialogar ‘‘sin prejuicios sobre las personas LGBTI y sus demandas para vivir libres de toda discriminación’’, e incitó también a ‘‘no usar discursos que inciten al odio’’.
Y es que aunque la legislación del país no atenta directamente contra el colectivo, sí que es cierto que se aplican algunos de sus postulados para penalizar algunas conductas como faltas a la moral, atentados al pudor o exhibiciones obscenas, cometidas principalmente, según miembros del cuerpo de seguridad, por personas LGTB. En concreto, en el período de 1995 al 2006, fueron 420 los homicidios presentados por homofobia de acuerdo con el Informe Especial sobre Violaciones a los Derechos Humanos y Delitos Cometidos por Homofobia, realizado por la Comisión Nacional de los Derechos Humanos (CNDH) en el año 2010. Ante esta situación, algunas autoridades plantean actualmente una reforma del artículo 1 de la Constitución Política con el objetivo de prohibir toda discriminación motivada por la orientación sexual, la identidad o expresión de género, adaptando así la Carta Magna mexicana a los estándares internacionales en materia de derechos humanos más avanzados.
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SOY MUJER
CON sally de la puerta
asi fue mi salida
del Armario
“Me sentía sumida en la angustia y quería desahogarme con una persona incondicional que me escuchara sin cuestionarme y me aceptara tal cual”. Vengo de una familia tradicional, católica, con el típico hermetismo latino y conceptos estructurados. Desde temprana edad sentía preferencia por compartir con mis compañeritas de escuela. Aunque no sentía especial atracción por ninguna, me gustaba estar cerca de ellas y buscaba la forma de jugar de manos o hacerles travesuras. En la adolescencia se reafirmó un poco más mi deseo de compartir cualquier tipo de actividad con amigas. Aunque era una chica con cierto atractivo y no me faltaban pretendientes varones, no los tomaba en cuenta. A medida que pasaba el tiempo me volví un poco celosa y hasta posesiva con alguna de mis compañeras y una de ellas me preguntó, algo molesta, que si a mí me gustaban las mujeres para comportarme así. Entonces fue que reaccioné, lo tomé muy personal. Eso no era posible. A mi me tenían que gustar los varones, era lo “normal” y en algún momento me tenia que casar con uno. Logré oprimir ese deseo innato y a los 20 años me casé con el novio que mas me soportó, del que me enamoré y quien es el papá de mi hija. Vivimos unos primeros años muy bien en todos los niveles, hasta que resurgió mi preferencia. Comencé a tener sueños donde tenía intimidad con mujeres y llegaba al orgasmo dormida. Cuando tenía relaciones con mi esposo, me imaginaba que estaba con una mujer. La intimidad con él se hizo cada vez más distante por mis pretextos y terminé recurriendo a una gran amiga mía, mucho mayor que yo, quien era lesbiana y me conocía desde que era casi niña. A ella le conté lo sucedido y me dijo que tenía que aceptarlo y enfrentar mi verdad. Yo era lesbiana. Al cabo de un año, ella fue mi primera relación “completa” con una mujer. De ahí en más, a ocultar los sentimientos y guardar apariencias ya que en Venezuela no era bien visto el homosexualismo y al venirme a Miami estaba rodeada de mi familia, una parte de ella homofobica. Empecé a soñar con la idea de salir del closet. Suena como una especie de renacimiento. Es una de las decisiones más difíciles, tanto para los que tenemos la idea de salir del closet como para nuestros familiares. Recuerdo el día que decidí tomar el primer paso y determiné hablar con mi mamá. Mi relación de pareja no estaba en su mejor momento. No sabíamos si las cosas volverían a arreglarse entre
nosotras o si romperíamos definitivamente. Me sentía sumida en la angustia y quería desahogarme con una persona incondicional que me escuchara sin cuestionarme y me aceptara tal cual. Fue ahí que llamé a mi mamá y al día siguiente fui a verla personalmente. Soy de las personas que prefiere que no la vean mal o triste y al estar así, preferí alejarme un poco de mi madre y solo hablábamos por teléfono los días previos al encuentro. Luego de estar sentadas una frente a la otra, sin el mas mínimo rodeo, le dije que la persona que para ella era mi mejor amiga, en realidad era mi pareja desde hacia unos años, ya que yo era homosexual; que no pensara que era algo repentino o temporal, pues estaba definida y había tenido unas cuantas relaciones de tipo sexual y/o de pareja con mujeres en años pasados. ¡Así estalló la bomba! A ella se le aguaron los ojos. Yo también lagrimeaba. Me dijo que no se había dado cuenta de mi preferencia a pesar de haber compartido conmigo en algunos eventos de la comunidad gay; que no tenia nada que decirme más que para ella yo iba a seguir siendo su hija y fuera lo que fuera siempre me iba a apoyar. Ahí nos abrazamos llorando. Me sentí liberada y feliz dentro de mis circunstancias. En años atrás lo había hablado con mi hija, aunque ella sí se había dado cuenta a sus 14 años y me sorprendió con la pregunta de mi preferencia sexual a la que respondí de manera afirmativa. Sé de personas que han sufrido mucho. Unas han preferido la doble vida, otras han padecido ante la reacción homofobica de familiares y amigos, y algunas han llegado al extremo de quitarse la vida simplemente por tener una preferencia sexual diferente. ¡No es justo! Hoy por hoy me muevo libremente. Una gran parte de mis amistades hetero, al igual que mi hermana mayor y sobrinas, saben que soy gay. Todos me aprecian, me respetan y tienen claro que la preferencia sexual no interfiere en la calidad humana ni en los valores de la persona. Sin embargo todavía me quedan pasos que tomar en este camino que empezó cuando abrí la puerta con mi hija. Todavía hay familiares que lo desconocen o al menos eso creo—y prefiero dejarlo así. Prefiero evitarme el mal momento… ¿o será que no debería ser así? ¿Será que estaré en algún momento totalmente fuera del famoso closet? Como todos los llamados de la comunidad LGBT, deseo que llegue el día en que no haga falta hacerlo.
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good reads
with marisa cohen
Firefly by Whitney Hamilton In writer/director/actor Whitney Hamilton’s Civil War novel, Grace and her sister Louise enlist in the Confederate army, using their dead brothers’ uniforms. Doom and war separate the sisters, leaving Grace, now living as “Henry” on “his” own. Now identifying entirely as a man, he meets and falls in love with the blind widow Virginia, eventually marrying her to save her farm. Clocking in at almost 500 pages, this is an epic, well paced and historically accurate look at 19th century female soldiers, the invisibility of 19th century queer life and the importance of those hidden stories. Firefly was ultimately split into two films: 2005’s award winning film festival darling My Brother’s War (available on amazon) and Union (www.unionmovie.com), now in production in the south.
SANDCASTLES by Suzie Carr An impressive novel about magic, love, and the things that make life worth living, Sandcastles tells the story of smart, cynical Lia, her best friend Dean, and Willow, the psychic who had a crush on Lia when they were kids. To say more would rob the reader of this unique story. Although the love story between Lia and Willow is a main part of the book, at its heart Carr spins a tale about desire, the importance of courage, and the little mysteries that bring us together.
A KNIGHT TO REMEMBER by Bridget Essex Taking a page from Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander is Bridget Essex’s charming and clever A Knight to Remember. Librarian Holly’s jerk of a girlfriend ditches her at a Boston Ren Faire and that night, there’s a huge storm. Before you can say, “I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore,” the storm has dumped a present in Holly’s backyard in the form of Virago, a Xena look alike from another dimension. This kind of Ray Bradbury style plot might wilt in the hands of a lesser writer, but Essex deftly handles every twist and turn of this unconventional romantic comedy. Virago loves books, dogs, and Starbucks, and Jesus Christ, slow down Bridget Essex, or we’re all going to be camping out in our backyards, watching the stars and waiting. facebook
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GLSEN Executive Director, Dr. Eliza Byard, applauded Facebook’s decision to allow users to add their own description beyond the pre-set options to accurately describe their gender identity. Users can also control with whom they share their gender identity, an important safety and privacy feature. “Facebook’s new free-form field for gender identity is a huge step forward for transgender, gender nonconforming and gender queer youth,” said Dr. Byard, “The internet is an essential source of resources, support and community for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth, and one of its most important ‘living rooms’ now better reflects their reality and self-understanding.”
In GLSEN’s report, Out Online: The Experiences of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Youth on the Internet, LGBT youth indicated the Internet is a space that offers safer opportunities to express who they are, find peer support and gain access to resources not necessarily available in person, and nearly onethird said they were out more online that in person. However, the latest edition of GLSEN’s National School Climate Survey recently found that 49 percent of LGBT students experienced electronic harassment, or “cyberbullying,” in the past year.
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classifieds
community groups/organizations
miscellaneous
Reach The LGBT Women’s Community Advertising in She: A Lot More Affordable Than You Think. Call Today 954-354-9751
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classifieds
photographers
she sisters
she searches SELL SOMETHING YOU LOVE Sales representatives wanted. Unlimited earning potential and some of the highest commissions in the industry! Sales experience, professionalism and a love for She a MUST! Dade, Broward, ORLANDO, TAMPA, JACKSONVILLE areas availiable. Send resumes to donna@ shemag.com. she sisters
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scopes
with the village sage
AQUARIUS JAN 21 - FEB 19 Your focus is firmly on money, measuring it against what you’ll need, let alone what you’d like. The right time to dream the dreams and fantasize the future is right now. Create in your mind’s eye opportunities and then call them to you. Examine your own history. Identify what habits have worked well for you. Don’t be so concerned about money that you fail to take unexpected opportunities for fun.
leo July 23 - aug 22 The planets are empowering choices for you to achieve a better quality of life. Your legendary strength and incredible willpower, has you breaking free of constraints. While it will empower you to take action, positive results will not be achieved without a step-by-step action-plan. Remember to include significant others.
pisces feb 20 - mar 20 Your whole sense of self has been shifting in a most unsettling way recently, as you take your personal inventory after many challenging cycles. Remember, how much you have is not all you are. Do not count your self worth by the money in the bank. The planets are empowering you to do some soul-searching and be the person you were meant to be.
virgo aug 23 - sept 23 Your focus is on improving the quality of relationships and communication. The planets are empowering you to finally let go and enjoy your present. Your dreams can come true if you are willing to take risks and fact check before committing your hard earned money, time and energy. It’s important to keep to a healthy fitness and diet program, with indulgence as a reward, not the norm.
aries mar 21 - apr 20 Self-awareness and analysis help you avoid creating obstacles to success and happiness. It’s time for honest evaluation of how you can work smarter, not harder. Consider what internal mechanism drives the choices you make, and the value you place on being right, when the quality of your life could use improvement. You will have more success in reaching your ultimate goals, if you embrace new strategies.
libra sept 24 - oct 23 The planets are urging you to move forward with your plans to make positive changes. Everything will benefit from your commitment to yourself. This is the perfect time to re-evaluate and rethink your goals. Get out of your comfort zone and break old habits that are not producing the results you expected. Pay close attention to what your body is telling you it needs.
taurus apr 21 - may 21 While your self-imposed alone time has proved valuable in the past, the pull towards being more social is strong, so don’t resist invitations. Conflicts within your inner circle will continue to challenge your sense of security. Be careful with the volatile energy. Avoid repeating mistakes in communicating your wants, needs and opinions. By month’s end, most issues will have resolved themselves, including financial ones.
scorpio oct 24 - nov 22 You have the opportunity to finally put the past in the past.. Healing energy is available to help turn negatives into positives, arguments into agreements and hurt, angry feelings into loving, compassionate ones. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to go out and play with friends and family. Reward yourself for the good job you’re doing by exercising selfcontrol. Work out angry energy in a productive way.
gemini may 22 - june 21 While it’s fine to let your imagination run wild when creating your wish-list, be careful to not undermine your current situation by not considering the needs of all involved. Commitments may seem restrictive if you allow yourself to feel resentment. Remember, commitments that can be trusted work both ways and provide security you crave. Be inventive in finding ways to indulge without breaking the budget.
sagittarius nov 23 - dec 21 The planets are about to throw you out of your comfort zone and smack in the middle of a romanticcomedy adventure. You’ve been feeling dissatisfied with no real strategy for improving things. All that’s about to change. Make sure you’re ready to embrace whatever the Universe sends your way. The seeds are all there for all the new things you want in your life, but you have to do the work.
cancer June 22 - july 22 Believe it or not, all your hard work is about to be rewarded by the opportunities provided by this month’s planetary array. However, you will have to be ready to take that chance and run with it. Be ready to embrace new ways of thinking about old issues that still throw you into unproductive emotional reactions and responses. Stay in balance staying cool, calm and collected in the face of challenges.
capricorn dec 22 - jan 20 The planets have conspired to throw a curve ball into your best laid plans and cash flow. Choices made now may be regretted later, as you have no clear path towards your goals. Perhaps the best use of the energies is to revisit your attitude and strategies and make adjustments wherever necessary. Control-freak behavior only makes you feel good in the moment.
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