She Magazine — September '11 by She Magazine

!<I<:&,:<JKI6"&L6M6:K)&!$NO&,:KM96:&,:<JKI6 !<7,<4K96&&P6J(+I9&4):66M

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,.1)<=6:>);: ?5+:4;(%@&A6,967B6:&.1@&0.11&/"CD"11&F$

!IHI:&,:IJKH6"&L6M6:K)&!$NO&,:KM96:&,:IJKH6 !I7,I4K96&&P6J(+H9&4):66M

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,.04<669=);: >5+:4;(%?&@6,967A6:&.1?&0.11&/"BC"DG&E$

!9G9;&,;9HIG6"&J6K6;I)&!$LM&,;IK:6;&,;9HIG6 !97,94I:6&&N6H(+G:&4);66K

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#9):./#;6(<%#456,.0=+<>)<; ?+64<(%@&A6,:67=6;&0/@&0../&B"CE"..&3$

!IHI:&,:IJKH6"&L6=6:K)&!$MN&,:K=96:&,:IJKH6 !I7,I4K96&&O6J(+H9&4):66=

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,.<4)6=6>);: ?5+:4;(%@&A6,967B6:&.1@&0.11&/"CD"0D&E$

!?G?9&,9?HIG6"&J6=69I)&!$KL&,9I=B69&,9?HIG6 !?7,?4IB6&&M6H(+GB&4)966=

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#(+8#96(:%#456,.;<<<4)6=6>):9 $?=:(%@&A+8+4B&.1@&0.11&;"CD"EE&3$

Tina Sordellini Managing Executive Editor

shep06ednote.pmd

...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Women. I just love them. I love the way they look, the way they smell, the way they feel, the way they think…I just love women. I suppose that explains why I’m gay and feel truly lucky to be in a business that is all about the support and empowerment of women. Admittedly, September is one of my favorite months because it kicks off with our yearly trip to Key West for Womenfest. This will be my thirteenth year down on the island and there is just no better place in the world for me to see the eclectic types of women that I so adore. They come from all over the world, some for as many years or more than I have attended. They sing. They dance. They frolic in the Key West sun. And I get to kick back and enjoy them all. Every couple of years I see new, young women among the crowd and am thrilled by their self-assuredness and strength. As a kid I remember being enamored by the few strong women on television. I mean, early on we had predominantly male leads with the men of Hawaii Five-O, Starsky & Hutch, Baretta and Kojak, while women played the supporting roles of love interest or receptionist. When Charlie’s Angels first hit the TV scene, I was immediately hooked. For me, that was the closest thing to strong women on television, even if Jill Monroe was a bit of a naive idiot. All that mattered to me was that they were the ones on the street, doing the leg work, catching the bad guys, and not sitting behind a desk making appointments for the male leads. Here we are a slew of years later and television is packed with strong leading women characters to adore. Jane Rizzoli, Brenda Lee Johnson, that fabulous, muffinmaking, rifle-toting Bree Van de Kamp… the list goes on and on. When I think about how inspired I was by those few characters as a child, I can only imagine what all these new, strong, female characters will do for the little girls watching them on television today. When you add strong female celebrity activists like Lady Gaga, who shout about injustice, discrimination and intolerance from the rooftops, I am so excited to see the new generation of women we are creating. While we all know the importance of having positive role models in our everyday lives—teachers, parents, mentors and friends—we can’t deny the impact of the entertainment industry on our youth. Whether it’s a former stripper-turned CSI agent or the daughter of Cher, who became her son, they send the message to our young women that no matter how your world began, you can make what you want of it and become the person you most want to be. Yes, it’s a truly exciting world of women we are creating. And the best part is that I get to spend a host of Septembers in Key West, kicking back and enjoying them all. See you next month!

MANAGING EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Tina Sordellini PUBLICITY SHE ESPAÑOL EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Maria Espinal ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Sandee Birdsong ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Marissa Cohen M. Patti Moss Shawn Nicholson Christina Radish Denise Warner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Marissa Cohen Verónica Espinal Anna Lepely, M.S. PHD Christina Radish The Village Sage Jowharah Sanders Tina Sordellini Denise Warner Donna Woessner CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Verónica Espinal • Yadira Claralt Diane Bradford • Angie Sowers Juan Saco Mironoff • Jennifer Maria Cordoba SALES ASSOCIATES

Maria Espinal Diana Price ads@shemag.com DISTRIBUTION

Robin Rotellini • JR Davis SUBSCRIPTIONS

www.shemag.com EDITORIAL OFFICE

6511 Nova Drive, #173 Davie, FL 33317 954.354.9751 office info@shemag.com www.shemag.com 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.

9/1/2011, 11:42 AM

!K:K;&,;K>A:6"&L6M6;A)&!$NO&,;AMJ6;&,;K>A:6 !K7,K4AJ6&&P6>(+:J&4);66M

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#9+:%11#;6(<%#456,.2=>?)<; @;A<(%B&C+:%&.1B&0.11&11"DD"1E&G$

20 FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

16 DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL

08 DIRECTOR’S CHAIR

After September 20th, the law ends

10 MULTIMEDIA Movies, Music, DVDs & TV

20 COVER STORY

14 IN THE NEWS

24 HEALTH EXPO The 1st Women of Color Health Expo comes to Wilton Manors, FL

15 CALENDAR 22 SHE GIRL

30 CHEW ON THIS

Meet Eveleena

Rodeo Southern Restaurant & Bar

34 ARCHIVES Oni Women’s Conference ‘02

34 ON THE SHELVES

38 SCOPES

SHE ESPANOL 32 NOTICIAS 33 ESPECIAL Entrevista con pareja de mujeres que logró paro a la deportación.

PICTORIALS 04 SHE SCENE 12 AQUA FOUNDATION 34 SF DYKE MARCH

FOLLOW SHE FACEBOOK.com Search: She Mag Like Us: She Magazine TWITTER.com/shemagazine MYSPACE.com/she_magazine M.ISSUU.com (Search: Shemagazine) Download the application on your android phone today!

> YOU CAN READ OUR FREE DIGITAL EDITION AT WWW.SHEMAG.COM

shep08inissue.pmd

9/1/2011, 10:23 AM

!=>=:&,:=L?>6"&M6@6:?)&!$NO&,:?@96:&,:=L?>6 !=7,=4?96&&P6L(+>9&4):66@

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,./:6<=>+9?=@A);: B5+:4;(%C&D6,967E6:&.1C&0.11&/"FH".0&I$

At an age when most artists are just starting to prove themselves, Joss Stone has already been a star for the better part of a decade. Her new ten-track release, LP1, is unlike anything anyone has ever heard from Joss before, showcasing a piano-driven rock sound that blends the innate emotive soulfulness of Stone’s unparalleled vocals with the raw, bareness of traditional blues. “That slide guitar that you sit down and play, I was like what the hell is that!” the singer jokes. “To be honest, I had no idea what it was going to sound like…”

In the new series, Revenge, Emily Thorne (Emily Van Camp) is new to the Hamptons. She’s met some of her wealthy neighbors, has made a few friends and seemingly blends into the town. But something is odd about a young girl living in a wealthy town all on her own, and the truth is that Emily isn’t exactly new to the neighborhood. In fact, this was once her old neighborhood, until something happened that ruined her family and their reputation. Now Emily is back to right some of those wrongs in the best way she knows how—with a vengeance. Premieres Wednesday, Sept 21 at 10pm on ABC.

In the comedy flick, I Don’t know How She Does It, starring Sarah Jessica Parker, Kate devotes days to her job with a financial management firm. At night she goes home to her recently-downsized architect husband and their two young children. It’s a non-stop balancing act, the same one that Kate’s best friend performs on a daily basis, and that Kate’s super-brainy, young junior associate fully intends to avoid. When Kate gets handed a major new account that will require frequent trips to New York, and her hubby gets the job he’s been hoping for, both will be spreading themselves even thinner.

A music industry-wide charity initiative, Songs For Japan is an unprecedented compilation of 37 major hits and classic tracks on 2 CDs including 21 Billboard Hot 100 hits and five #1’s from some of the biggest names in contemporary music. It is a star-studded album collection benefitting Japan earthquake and Pacific tsunami relief. Artists include Pink, Black Eyed Peas, Nicki Minaj, Sade, Adele, Leona Lewis, Shakira, Beyonce and Norah Jones, with all artists and labels waiving any royalties or proceeds to ensure that all funds raised from this amazing compilation go directly those who need it.

Get ready for the new Charlie’s Angels! Set in Miami, this fun, glamorous, action-packed take on the 1970s smash hit series introduces us to three new angels. There’s Abby (Rachael Taylor), a Park Avenue princess turned worldclass thief. Kate (Annie Ilonzeh), a Miami cop who fell from grace, losing her career and fiancé. And Gloria, a disgraced army lieutenant who has a way with explosives. When a missions ends in Gloria’s tragic death, Charlie persuades them to partner with Gloria’s childhood friend, Eve (Minka Kelly), a street racer with a mysterious past. Premieres Thursday, Sept 22 at 8pm on ABC.

The new crime drama, Prime Suspect takes a look inside a New York City homicide department. The series stars Maria Bello as toughas-nails NYPD homicide Detective Jane Timoney, an outsider who has just transferred to a new squad where her new colleagues already dislike her. Jane is confident and focused and also rude, abrupt and occasionally reckless. She has her vices, and rumors of a questionable past follow her everywhere—but at the end of the day, she’s an instinctively brilliant cop who can’t be distracted from the only important thing: the prime suspect. Premieres Thursday, Sept 22 at 10pm on NBC.

[

NOT TO BE MISSED: The Strange Historyt of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell illustrates the tumultuous evolution of the controversial policy that fostered hate and intolerance within the military – and undermined the very freedoms American forces defend—by forcing many soldiers to lie and live in secrecy.This documentary will sneak preview on Tuesday, Sept. 19 midnight-1:30am on HBO, followed by the a first prime-time play Wednesday, Sept. 20 at 8:00pm. SHE - 10 - 9/11

shep10media.PMD

9/1/2011, 10:24 AM

]

!>=>:&,:>JK=6"&L6<6:K)&!$MN&,:K<96:&,:>JK=6 !>7,>4K96&&O6J(+=9&4):66<

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,11;(<86=>4?);: @5+:4;(%A&B6,967C6:&.1A&0.11&/"DE"E0&F$

SHE -

shep12AquaPICS.pmd

12 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:24 AM

!IHI:&,:IJKH6"&L6M6:K)&!$NO&,:KM96:&,:IJKH6 !I7,I4K96&&P6J(+H9&4):66M

100

SHE - 13 - 9/11

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,1<=68(4,8>);: ?5+:4;(%@&A6,967B6:&.1@&0.11&/"<C"1G&E$

IN THE NEWS WHITE HOUSE HONORS GLSEN WITH CHAMPION OF CHANGE AWARD On August 30th, The White House named GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, a Champion of Change for the organization’s two decades of pioneering work to fight bullying, violence and stigma directed at lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in K-12 schools, and its contributions to efforts to prevent suicide among at-risk youth. The “Champions of Change Series: Winning the Future Across America” is a White House initiative that honors Americans and organizations making an impact in issues of critical importance to our country and helping the nation rise to meet the many challenges of the 21st Century. GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard and Public Policy Manager Alison Gill (pictured), along with eight other award recipient representatives, met with representatives from the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration at the White House to discuss their initiatives and to share best practices from their work. “This White House honor recognizes the amazing work that the staff, volunteers and student leaders of GLSEN have done for more than two decades to alert the nation to the ways that anti-LGBT bias in our schools is a serious barrier to both educational excellence and individual well-being,” Byard said. “I and my colleagues are dedicated to identifying and implementing solutions to the problem that work for schools and for students, instilling hope and staving off despair. It is so gratifying to gain this kind of recognition for our efforts to create better, safer schools for all.” GLSEN focuses on research, programs and advocacy that promote safer schools for all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/ expression, and school environments where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to a diverse and healthy society.

CENSUS 2010

LGBT DATA UPDATE FLORIDA Total state population 18, 801,310 SAME-SEX COUPLES 65,601 Same-sex Couples per 1,000 households 8.8 FEMALE 53% / 34,588 • MALE 47% / 31,013 RAISING CHILDREN 18% / 11,562 NOT RAISING CHILDREN 82% / 54,038 TOP 5 COUNTIES: Broward (9,125), Miami-Dade (7,436), Orange (4,751), Palm Beach (4,706), Pinellas (4,438) TOP 5 CITIES WITHIN COUNTY: Broward = Fort Lauderdale 2,383 • Oakland Park 864 • Wilton Manors 758 • Hollywood 676 • Pompano Beach 566 Miami-Dade = Miami 1,630 • Miami Beach 916 • Hialeah 322 • Coral Gables 230 • North Miami 188 Orange = Orlando 1,562 • Winter Park 150 • Apopka 135 • Ocoee 108 • Winter Garden 97 Palm Beach = West Palm Beach 498 • Boca Raton 292 • Delray Beach 278 • Boynton Beach 256 • Lake Worth 250 Pinellas = St. Petersburg 1,659 • Clearwater 407 • Largo 346 • Pinellas Park 186 • Dunedin 176 OTHER CITIES: Jacksonville 2,621 • St. Petersburg 1,659 • Tampa 1,630 • Sarasota 1,507 • Tallahassee 560 • DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA SAME-SEX COUPLES 5,146 FEMALE 28% / 1,659 • MALE 72% / 3,708 MASSACHUSETTS SAME-SEX COUPLES 25,049 FEMALE 62% / 16,250 • MALE 38% / 9,799 MASSACHUSETTS SAME-SEX COUPLES 16,322 FEMALE 63% / 10,295 • MALE 37% / 6,027

FL DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP REGISTRY BILL FILED BY SENATOR SOBEL Longtime ally and champion of LGBT rights, State Senator Eleanor Sobel (D-Hollywood), filed a Senate Bill which will create a state Domestic Partnership registry for Florida and, importantly, adds “Partnership” as a relationship status option on state forms. “We are delighted by Senator Sobel’s continued effort to win basic recognition and protection for our rights and relationships,” said Michael Kenny, Executive Director of Florida Together. “Even though our community does not have a track record of success in the Legislature, it’s important that our friends keep fighting for us.” The Bill, (Senate Bill 166), is slated to be heard in the 2012 Legislative Session which will begin in months, early next year – in January – due to the redistricting process.

SHE -

shep14news1.pmd

“A majority of Americans and Floridians support recognition for samesex relationships,” said Senator Sobel. “So many other Floridians are in long-term, unmarried relationships it no longer makes sense for the state to have just one category - married and everyone else.” Currently, domestic partnership recognition exists in many communities throughout Florida. “I look forward to working with my colleagues and great advocates like Florida Together to help Florida take this needed step forward.” Sobel said. “All Floridians deserve to be recognized and counted.” “Having a bill filed is a long, long way from creating law,” Kenny said. To learn more about Senate Bill 166, including reading the bill, visit: www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2012/0166.

14 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:25 AM

!>=>:&,:>J?=6"&K6L6:?)&!$MN&,:?L96:&,:>J?=6 !>7,>4?96&&O6J(+=9&4):66L

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,1<56==:>9?)(@);: A5+:4;(%B&C6,967D6:&.1B&0.11&11".<"<H&E$

After 18 years and more than 14,000 gay men and women discharged because of their sexual orientation, Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (originally known as Don’t Ask, Don’t’ Tell, Don’t Pursue) finally comes to an end under the Obama administration. On November 30, 1993, President Bill Clinton signed Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell (DADT) into law, which mandated the discharge of openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual service members. After September 20th, there will no longer be a policy that will prohibit people who “demonstrate a propensity or intent to engage in homosexual acts” from serving in the armed forces of the United States, because their presence would, according to DADT, “create an unacceptable risk to the high standards of morale, good order and discipline.” However, celebrating this victory for our men and women in the military comes with remembering soldiers like Allen R. Schindler, Jr. (December 13, 1969—October 27, 1992) a member of the United States Navy who was brutally murdered for being gay while in Japan. We spoke to three women who enlisted to serve their country, regardless of this law. They share their experience hiding their sexuality and the expectations about serving as openly lesbian or bisexual soldiers. MELISSA TRUE, 37 Originally from Beloit, WI. Living in Louisiana. Served in the US Air Force from 1992 – 2000. Stationed at Griffis AFB, NY and Barksdale AFB, LA. Signed up for two four-year enlistments, and received three Achievement medals and one Commendation medal before receiving an Hon-

orable Discharge in 2000 because she had served the required time. DID YOUR SEXUAL ORIENTATION BECOME A PROBLEM FOR YOU WHILE SERVING? HOW MUCH DID YOU HAVE TO COVER UP?

I didn’t realize I was a lesbian until after I was in basic training. It was well before DADT was instated. If anyone suspected, the military could interrogate and press charges. I had to cover up my first love because she was a woman. There was another time when a friend had been “molested” by a guy in our dorm. Several women were all brought in for questioning but couldn’t tell them where we were when they asked or we would have been “telling”. Also, the guy said that our friend “wanted it.” She was not able to tell them that would never happen because not only was she a lesbian, but she also had a longterm girlfriend. The hardest part about being gay in the military was simply not being able to share stories with the guys I worked with. There were some that I could talk to, but they were only the ones in my close inner circle. They could tell stories about their girlfriends or wives, but I had to make up stories about a fake boyfriend or use the pronoun game when talking about my girlfriend. Actually, my girlfriend was always referred to as my “roommate” but the smart ones could figure that out. IF YOU WERE STILL SERVING IN THE AIR FORCE, HOW IMPORTANT WOULD IT BE FOR YOU TO BE AN OPENLY LESBIAN SOLDIER?

This is a hard question. It would be important for it to not even be an issue. If I were still in the SHE -

shep16_18DADT.pmd

“SEVERAL WOMEN WERE ALL BROUGHT IN FOR QUESTIONING BUT COULDN’T TELL THEM WHERE WE WERE WHEN THEY ASKED OR WE WOULD HAVE BEEN ‘TELLING’.”

military, I would want to feel that I could share as much as everyone else around me and not feel that I had to hold back. It would be an amazing thing to actually be able to bring my partner to all the holiday events and be recognized as being in a loving and stable relationship. In the civilian world, I can now be comfortable in telling anyone that I have a future wife. ON NOVEMBER 30, 2010, THE DEFENSE DEPARTMENT PUBLISHED A 267-PAGE REPORT ON THE EFFECTS OF REPEAL, WHICH SHOWED 60% OF THE MARINE CORPS SAID REPEALING THE BAN WOULD BE NEGATIVE. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THAT?

My thoughts are that the marines who selected that answer are possibly threatened by their own thoughts and feelings about sexuality. Anyone who thinks that another person is thinking about them sexually as they are knee deep in a trench after no sleep for two days, or in a downpour with bullets whizzing by and bombs going off around them has got their priorities wrong.

16 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:25 AM

LEFT TO RIGHT: Melissa True, Amanda Nichole Herrera and Grace Salcedo.

AMANDA NICHOLE HERRERA, 31 Originally from San Diego, CA. Enlisted in the CA Army National Guard on June 2006. Stationed in National City, CA. HAS YOUR SEXUAL ORIENTATION BECOME A PROBLEM FOR YOU WHILE SERVING?

When I first enlisted, going “back into the closet” was the biggest hurdle for me to overcome. I’m a very strong willed person who doesn’t like to be told I can’t do something. I chose to go to Basic Training with a shaved head! I got a lot of comments and was mistaken for a male on several occasions, but despite the crap I received, I let my performance speak for me. I graduated at the top of an accelerated class a month early. When I got back to my home unit, I quickly became a top soldier for my commander. I was very out in appearance and attitude and completely out to those I trusted. I still had to be careful around certain people in how I spoke or acted but always had the mindset that if they kicked me out for being gay, they would be losing a good soldier. Now, I’m pretty much out and open. IS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO BE AN OPENLY

LESBIAN SOLDIER?

It’s very important. I feel that if I, or anyone else, can serve my country proudly and potentially die for this country, I should have the right to do it with the utmost integrity and not have to lie about who I am. San Diego recently had a Military Contingent for the LGBT Pride Parade for the first time ever in the US. I was beyond proud to be a part of it! I am a Soldier, I am a Lesbian, and I can proudly say I am also a Veteran. ONCE DADT COMES TO AN END ON SEPTEMBER 20TH, DO YOU THINK THE BEHAVIOR OF OTHER SOLDIERS TOWARDS THOSE WHO DECIDE TO COME OUT WILL BE DIFFERENT?

I think that no matter what the rules are, there will always be ignorance and intolerance. We as a country are ready for this change. I think the biggest challenge will be for the men. Sometimes men are a little less tolerant of homosexuals. I think there will be gay slurs and maybe even some extreme hate crimes. I just hope the military lives up to its standard for discipline in these circumstances, just as they do in others. Overall, I think it will be a smooth transition. AS A SOLDIER WHO IS CURRENTLY SERV-

ING, WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS AFTER SEPT 20TH?

I expect every soldier, Marine, sailor and airman to rise to the challenge set before them, to embrace each individual for who they are and how they serve, not for who they choose to love. They should at least be tolerant. I also expect every homosexual soldier, Marine, sailor and airman to maintain their standards as being a member of the Armed Forces now that we have the right to be “out.”

“I ALSO EXPECT EVERY HOMOSEXUAL SOLDIER, MARINE, SAILOR AND AIRMAN TO MAINTAIN THEIR STANDARDS AS BEING A MEMBER OF THE ARMED FORCES NOW THAT WE HAVE THE RIGHT TO BE ‘OUT.’”

BY MARIA ESPINAL

SHE -

shep16_18DADT.pmd

17 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:26 AM

GRACE SALCEDO, 25 Originally from Miami, FL Enlisted in the United States Air Force Reserves on May. 31, 2006. Stationed at Homestead Air Reserve Base in Florida as a fulltime Air Reserve Technician and active reservist. HAS YOUR SEXUAL ORIENTATION BECOME A PROBLEM FOR YOU WHILE SERVING?

At the beginning of my career in the service, I was scared for others to find out about my sexual orientation, but it didn’t conflict with my progress. I became stronger, but after knowing others had been kicked out for their sexual orientation, I became even more afraid. About a year ago, I finally felt comfortable for others to know. The people I work with closely know that I am a lesbian and treat me no differently than a straight person. I do work with a majority of males so it can be hard. Some of the guys do say gay slurs or jokes that I find offensive. The only way to fix it is to confront them and they usually back off. Some of my supervisors know about my sexual orientation and they still treat me like any other soldier. HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR YOU TO BE AN OPENLY LESBIAN SOLDIER?

I feel that we should have rights just like straight soldiers, especially having partners attend military functions. It shouldn’t matter whether the person is gay, lesbian or straight, what matters is that the individual can do the job. If I am an American soldier and it’s who I am, I would want to share that with my partner as well just like others do with their spouses. ONCE DADT COMES TO AN END ON SEPTEMBER 20TH, DO YOU THINK THE BEHAVIOR OF OTHER SOLDIERS TOWARDS THOSE WHO DECIDE TO COME OUT WILL BE DIFFERENT?

I think it might be different and there will be more homophobic issues that will arise. There could be issues with these soldiers getting promoted or not treated how a soldier should be treated. I could be wrong. The military is so diverse that there will be others against those being gay or lesbian. I hope that things change for the better and bring the military family closer together to fulfill our purpose as American soldiers. WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS AFTER SEPT 20TH?

I am hoping for things to change for the better. It will only make us stronger and be able to come together to overcome any obstacles. There will be issues but I know that those issues will be solved. I think this change in our military will be a positive change and it will help the gay community outside of the military.

DECEMBER 22, 2010: President Obama signed the bill allowing for repeal of DADT. However, repeal has yet to be certified, and “Don’t Ask” remains the law. DADT repeal legislation passed by Congress requires the President, Secretary of Defense, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to “certify” that the military is ready for repeal, which will not take place until 60 days after the date certification is issued. JULY 22, 2011: President Obama, Defense Secretary Panetta, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mullen certified that the U.S. military is ready for DADT repeal, which will go into effect on September 20, 2011.

SHE -

shep16_18DADT.pmd

18 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:26 AM

!<=<:&,:<K?=6"&L6M6:?)&!$NO&,:?M96:&,:<K?=6 !<7,<4?96&&P6K(+=9&4):66M

100

SHE - 19 - 9/11

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,1/<:8+==<6>+(=?9%@);: A5+:4;(%B&C6,967D6:&.1B&0.11&/"EE"FH&G$

BY MARIA ESPINAL PHOTOS ERIC CLAY PHOTOGRAPHY & DXIE LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

Originally from a big family in Atlanta, Blue started dancing at the age of five at The Atlanta Ballet and by the age of 12 decided to pursue her professional career. At the age of 17 she began her professional career in Atlanta and performed her premiere at the age of 19 as The Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker at the world renowned Fox Theater. Blue was then asked to perform in a European Tour of Carmen and Four Seasons where she was invited to perform for the Queen of Romania. Shortly, thereafter Blue was asked to perform with The Stars of the Boshoi Tour where she danced the soloist role in Don Quixote. After moving to New York, Blue relocated to Orlando, FL where she currently lives and performs at different clubs with her company, babyBlueStar productions. From Ballet to Burlesque, here is Blue! WHEN DID YOU COME OUT AND HOW WAS THAT PROCESS FOR YOU?

I came out when I was 19. I was actually dating my first girlfriend while I was competing in the Miss Georgia Pageant. (I love the dichotomy there.) I told one of my brothers first, and he was totally fine with it. My mom and dad definitely took it pretty hard, considering they thought me to be a promising ballerina and pageant girl. After about 10 years, many, many, many fights,

and lots of crying we started to heal our relationship. We are good now. Once my mother got to know many of the people in my life, she realized that gay people can be great people who love and build “families” of their own. YOU STARTED DANCING AT A VERY EARLY AGE. WHAT CAPTIVATED YOU ABOUT DANCING THAT STILL DOES?

The discipline, the stage, the music, the challenge, the beauty and the ability to draw an audience in and then take them on a journey. Dance is and will forever be awe-inspiring! YOUR PARENTS HAD TO BE VERY SUPPORTIVE OF YOUR CHOICE TO BE A DANCER. DID THAT COME EASY FOR THEM?

I actually started dancing because I was born completely turned in. In order to forgo surgeries, although I did not dodge corrective shoes, the doctor said to put me in Ballet Class or Ice skating. I loved it so much and actually would secretly cry during reverence. My parents did everything they could. They were the most supportive and my mother actually stopped working so she could take me to and from dance class. She would sit through six or seven hours of classes a day, plus rehearsals when I started the pre-professional program and never complained. Let’s just say they gave me the tools I needed to succeed. For that I am grateful. IT SURE SOUNDS LIKE EVERYTHING WAS SHE -

shep20_21Blue.pmd

GOING WELL WITH YOU AND YOUR CAREER IN ATLANTA AND NEW YORK. WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO RELOCATE TO ORLANDO, FL?

I was at a crossroads with dance and really had to make a decision of where I wanted to go with it. My body was already damaged and full of injuries. New York was expensive and I wanted to go back to school. I wanted to produce music and create shows, so I chose audio engineering and entered university. Orlando was sunny, warm and cheap, so I moved! IS THAT WHEN BABYBLUESTAR PRODUCTIONS WAS BORN? WAS THIS YOUR OBVIOUS NEXT STEP?

I think I started the company in 2002 or 2003. It was a natural progression for sure. I was working in nightclubs and starting to book people so I just decided to do it. FOR THE BENEFIT OF THOSE READERS WHO ARE NOT FAMILIAR WITH YOUR CAREER, WHEN AND WHERE DID THE NAME BLUE COME FROM? IS THAT JUST A STAGE NAME AND HOW DOES IT FIT WITH YOUR PERSONALITY?

I was in a U-haul, not moving in with a girlfriend, but moving from New York to Orlando and I had just finished reading a book by the amazing Twyla Tharp and she had mentioned that changing your name was a healthy thing. In life we grow and evolve and our names can be a reflection of that so... this is where it doesn’t get com-

20 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:26 AM

plicated. My eyes are blue and there you have it, plain and simple. However the name has evolved from babyblue to babyBLUESTAR to blueSTAR to just BLUE. SO, WHAT’S THE REAL NAME?

It’s not like it is a huge secret, but I do like a little privacy. It makes me feel safe. Sometimes people can get a little fixated on performers. I UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU MEAN! I REALLY ENJOYED THE VARIETEASE CHANNEL ON YOUTUBE.COM. HOW WAS VARIETEASE BORN?

VarieTEASE was a moment I had after I been working in the Orlando Nightclub scene for about two years. I wanted to start working with Pro-Tools and editing music, putting my education to use and create a show with boys, girls, kings, queens and everything in between… hence the “Varie” part of VarieTEASE and the TEASE goes without saying. By the way, I did not know that Betty Page had a VarieTEASE until after I started this whole thing. SINGING, DANCING, DJING, ACTING, PRODUCING, FROM BALLET TO BURLESQUE. IS THERE A PARTICULAR ORDER OF PREFERENCE?

That is tough because that can change with my mood and how my body feels. I love to produce and I love to perform. I love it all! I do know that DJing is last. I don’t like being stuck behind a rig for hours at a time. WITH WEEKLY PERFORMANCES AND OTHER GIGS, HOW DO YOU KEEP REINVENTING YOURSELF AND YOUR PERFORMANCE?

You have to want to challenge yourself. It is innate. Being different and innovative is really the best part of it all. Why would you want to be like someone else? AS A FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR, WHAT HAS BEEN THE HARDEST MOMENT FOR YOU THROUGHOUT THE YEARS FOR BABY BLUE PRODUCTIONS?

Honestly, I have only had a couple of moments where being a female might have been a factor in a not so great outcome. However, money is always an issue and sometimes you see people with huge budgets and you wonder how or why? I have a problem asking people for money unless it is for charity. WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST GRATIFYING?

Giving back. You are only as good as what you give back. IT IS OBVIOUS THAT YOU ENJOY AND LOVE WHAT YOU DO, BUT WHAT ABOUT THOSE TIMES WHEN YOU’D RATHER STAY AT HOME BUT YOU HAVE A SHOW THAT NIGHT?

I get up, put on my lashes, find a thong and take a deep breath. What I have learned from that is you are there to take away people from the “day”. It’s a fantasy that you create. It’s your job. On another note, I have found I am way funnier when I am in a shitty mood! TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR CHARITY WORK AND FUNDRAISING. I UNDERSTAND YOU DONATE 5% OF YOUR COMPANY’S EARNING TO CHARITY. HOW DO YOU CHOOSE AN ORGANIZATION TO SUPPORT?

I work with organizations that are close to my heart and that I can actually see their charities at work. The Smartride (Southern Most AIDS Ride) and Hope and Help are two charities that I really love because they are helping people in the state of Florida. Right now, I am working closely with my friend John “Tweeka” Barber who is fighting cancer. We have been working hard to create “The Barber Fund” which will support individuals living with cancer. WHAT’S THE NEXT PROJECT YOU ARE WORKING ON?

The VarieTEASE 2011-2012 Season. We are bringing back Carnivale, the most popular of the shows first, while working on a new show called Nouvelle Luna that will happen at the beginning of 2012.

FOR PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE, VISIT BABYBLUESTAR.BIZ.COM SHE -

shep20_21Blue.pmd

21 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:26 AM

OCCUPATION: I’m a lesbo burlesque entertainer and go-go dancer,

the princess at Medieval Times and a freelance writer. I’m a nerd by day, vixen by night, and a princess in-between. DREAM JOB: Lottery winner, philanthropist, international playgirl, or a successful writer. RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Having one hell of an adventure MY MOTHER THINKS I: Should call her more. I agree. She’s a badass with the biggest heart, the best advice and really good Polish remedies for just about anything. DREAM GIRL: She could handle herself in a zombie apocalypse, and she could handle my unicorn obsession. A nice ass doesn’t hurt. TURN-ONS: Ambition, wit, integrity, self-confidence, killer style and a fit body. Swoon. TURN-OFFS: Too many vices, poor grammar, and bad manners, no sense of adventure and indecisiveness. SECRET FETISH: Handcuffs. MY PETS: A hypothetical cat (or two) that I will have one day when I’m home for more than six minutes a day. MY GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT: Never having regrets. CELEBRITY’S BUTT I’D MOST LIKE TO SQUEEZE: Betty White. I bet she’s still got a donk. I HAVE A WEAKNESS FOR: Book and rainy nights. THE LAST BOOK I READ WAS: The Hunger Games trilogy. I’m al-

SHE -

shep22shegirl.pmd

ways on the hunt for my next favorite book, so feel free to send me some good recommendations. I THINK OUR COMMUNITY NEEDS: Even within the LGBT community, there needs to be a lot more love, acceptance and awareness and a lot less apathy. I FIRST KISSED A GIRL AT AGE: 18. We were in a photo booth. She had a mohawk and I made the first move. THE CARTOON CHARACTER I AM MOST LIKE: Lisa Simpson. I LIKE TO WEAR: Combat boots with dresses. CHOOSE ONE SUPER POWER: Teleportation. It’s a greener way to travel, and maybe I would finally start being on time to things. IF YOU WERE TO BECOME AN ACTIVIST IN THE LGBT COMMUNITY, WHICH ORGANIZATION WOULD YOU CHOOSE AND WHY?:

The Zebra Coalition. They support Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) youth and provide them with shelter, education, emotional or spiritual guidance, medical services and education. I’m incredibly happy being gay, but I know so many kids out there aren’t as lucky as I am. To help kids accept and love themselves for who they are, and to stop seeing sexual orientation as a defining dichotomy or abnormality, would be an amazing gift. IF MY LIFE WERE MADE INTO A MOVIE,MY PART WILL BE PLAYED BY: Milla Jovovich and there would definitely be zombies. MY MOST MEMORABE DATE: Skydiving. Wanna try to top that?

22 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:18 AM

!>?>:&,:>IJ?6"&K6L6:J)&!$MN&,:JL96:&,:>IJ?6 !>7,>4J96&&O6I(+?9&4):66L

100

SHE - 23 - 9/11

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,0<=>;?6(**;@);: A5+:4;(%B&C6,967=6:&.1B&0.11&/"<D"1H&E$

FIRST EVER

CELEBRATE

ORGULLO THE 1ST ANNUAL WOMEN OF COLOR HEALTH EXPO COMES TO WILTON MANORS, FL As an underserved and at-risk population for many health challenges, the purpose of the Women of Color (WOC) Health Expo is to offer education and screening resources for lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (LBT) women of color. This is an historic event as there has been no prior health promotion activity undertaken within Southeast Florida explicitly for this population. “All LBT women are invited to this event despite our focus being those who are women of color. This is a terrific opportunity, never provided before to LBT women in our region to go to one location where they can get a free clinical breast exam, get blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar screening as well as HIV-testing,” said Nan Van Den Bergh, ARROW Founding President, Producer of WOC Health Expo, and Professor at FlU School of Social Work. Large scale epidemiological studies have found that lesbian women have greater risks for breast cancer, gynecological cancer, lung cancer, and cardio-vascular disease than the overall US female population. This is due to biologic, lifestyle and socio-cultural factors. Barriers to quality health care include being less likely to have health insurance, having lower incomes and having experienced or fearing discrimination based on sexual orientation in addition to provider lack of awareness and knowledge about lesbian-specific health care risks. These risks are compounded for women of color who are LBT. For example, while White women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer, Black women are more likely to die of the disease. The primary reason: lack of early de-

tection via screening. For Latin women, breast cancer is their greatest cancer risk. Immigration status coupled with language differences can be true barriers to care. The program for the Women of Color Expo keeps expanding. There will be an outstanding presentation by Trivel McKire of Broward Dept of Health Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment program on the anatomy and biology of healthy breasts and healthy cervixes as compared to when cancer affects them. Trivel will also explain how uninsured and underinsured women can receive free mam-mograms and PAP tests, if they are age and income eligible. Self-defense training and yoga instruction will also take place. Besides vendors, Holy Cross hospital will be bringing a mobile van staffed with an MD who will be able to answer some specific questions about varying health care topics. THE 1ST ANNUAL WOMEN OF COLOR (WOC) HEALTH EXPO will take place at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors on Saturday, September 24th, 9am-1pm. This event is a collaboration between three local nonprofits organizations: Rainbow Ladies Our Space Inc., Beta Phi Omega and Area Resource and Referral Organization for Women (ARROW Inc.). This event is made possible by a generous grant from the Susan G. Komen Foundation, with assistance by Catalyst/HSC. There is no cost to attend. There will be food, entertainment, raffles and giveaways. For more information on the expo you can call 305.772.4712 or 305.892.0928. [RAINBOWLADIESOURSPACEINC.ORG] SHE -

shep24HealthExpo.pmd

TO SHOWCASE LGBT HISPANIC PRIDE DURING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH ON OCTOBER 1ST

¡VAMOS A CELEBRAR! The first-ever “Celebrate Orgullo” event will take place in non other better location than Miami Beach. “Orgullo” is Spanish for “Pride,” and this event celebrates the diverse cultural heritage and contributions of South Florida’s LGBT Hispanic community. Since 1988, Americans have observed Hispanic Heritage Month, from September 15 to October 15, celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of those whose ancestors came from Central and South America, Spain, Mexico or the Caribbean. With Hispanics in Miami-Dade County comprising 65% of the total population, (2010 U.S. Census), Hispanic Heritage Month is widely popular in South Florida. Celebrate Orgullo is a grassroots effort, conceived and implemented by a group of volunteers who decided that it was time for Miami Beach to lead the way in honoring the cultural contributions of the LGBT Hispanic community. The committee unanimously voted to name the city’s mayor, Matti Herrera-Bower, as “Honorary Orgullo Queen” to recognize her support throughout the years. Celebrate Orgullo will take place on Saturday, October 1st, from noon until 6 pm at Lummus Park, between 10th and 11th Streets Miami Beach. It will feature musical performances, folkloric dance, celebrity guests, drag performers, refreshments and vendor booths representing the both the non-profit and business community. The event is free and open to the public, and a portion of the proceeds from the sale of food and beverages will benefit the LGBT Youth Scholarship Fund of Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc. [CELEBRATEORGULLO.COM]

24 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:20 AM

!I=I:&,:IJK=6"&L6M6:K)&!$NO&,:KM96:&,:IJK=6 !I7,I4K96&&P6J(+=9&4):66M

100

SHE - 25 - 9/11

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,0<7(77(=6>56(=95?);: @5+:4;(%A&B6,967C6:&.1A&0.11&/"DD"DD&E$

SHE -

shep26DykeMarchPICS.pmd

26 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:20 AM

!LKL:&,:LM=K6"&N6?6:=)&!$OP&,:=?96:&,:LM=K6 !L7,L4=96&&Q6M(+K9&4):66?

100

SHE - 27 - 9/11

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,02*:(<=44>=9)54(?;@);: A5+:4;(%B&C6,967D6:&.1B&0.11&/"EE".I&F$

!=J=:&,:=K>J6"&L6?6:>)&!$MN&,:>?96:&,:=K>J6 !=7,=4>96&&O6K(+J9&4):66?

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,0<:6)=8;>??6:@);: A5+:4;(%B&C6,967D6:&.1B&0.11&/"E0"EH&F$

!IHI:&,:IJ<H6"&K6L6:<)&!$MN&,:<L96:&,:IJ<H6 !I7,I4<96&&O6J(+H9&4):66L

100

SHE - 29 - 9/11

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,0/7:4<4,(86=);: >5+:4;(%?&@6,967A6:&.1?&0.11&/"B0"./&D$

When co-owner Trent Baker creates dishes for Rodeo, he finds inspiration and from the mix of southern and southwest culinary influences in his hometown of Beaumont,Texas. Bordered by Mexico, Texas is home of the “Tex-Mex” cuisine and prides itself on both southern and southwest style culinary influences. The design for Rodeo is inspired by old Southern charm. Exposed stone walls, warm lighting, and a vast mix of music enhance your dining experience and keeps the cozy space filled with relaxed yet energized individuals. The atmosphere encourages to you to relax and enjoy a conversation, at times hard to find. From the moment you walk in, you will experience genuine southern hospitality. We at She Magazine definitly recommend you try the tasteful and coloful Rasperry Chipotle Salad (pictured below). The salad dressing is amazing and so is the chicken. Other must-have dishes are the Carne Asada with black beans, the Southwestern Chicken Sandwich and Cowboy Burger. PICTURED: Southern Pecan Chicken • Raspberry Chipotle Salad with Roasted Southern Pecans • Blackened Tuna Steak Burrito • Southwestern Chicken Sandwich with Seasoned Curly Fries • Carne Asada with Cumin Scented Black Beans, Sweet Corn Cake and Roasted Red Pepper Sauce.

SHE -

shep30Chew.pmd

HOURS: Tuesday - Wednesday 5pm - 10:30pm Thursday - Sunday 11:30am - 10:30pm CUISINE: Food across the Southern United States including Southwestern, Tex-Mex, Cajun/ Creole and traditional Southern 3 MOST POPULAR DISHES: - Pulled pork sandwich with sweet potato tots - Southern Pecan chicken with roasted corn on the cob, with a molasses butter and green bean casserole - Tuna Steak Burrito with sweet honey Jalapeno sauce served with sliced avocado & cumin scented black beans 3 MOST POPULAR DRINKS: Winerita, Beergarita, Sangria 3 MOST POPULAR WINES: - Stelina di Notte Pinot Grigio - Sledgehammer Cabernet Sauvignon - Cantena Malbec most popular salad: Southwestern Chicken Salad with Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette HAPPY HOUR: Tues – Fri 5-7pm 30% off beer, wine by the glass, and all specialty drinks Tues 5-10pm 30% off bottles of wine Wed Teacher Night 5-10pm 20% of individual bill for teachers with valid faculty card PRICE RANGE: $14.25 - $17.25. No reservations required. LOCATION: 2033 Wilton Drive • Wilton Manors, FL • 954.537.9544. Check full lunch and dinner menu online at RodeoFlorida.com. Bon Appétit!

30 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:21 AM

SHE -

shep31Ads.pmd

31 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:22 AM

NOTICIAS AVANZAN EN CHILE NUEVAS MEDIDAS PARA LUCHAR CONTRA LA HOMOFOBIA El concejal José Moraga está promoviendo en una región del país latinoamericano una nueva legislación que permita la lucha activa contra la discriminación basada en la orientación sexual y la identidad de género asesorado por el Movimiento de Integración y Liberación Homosexual (Movilh). José Moraga ha presentado un texto en la región chilena de El Quisco en el que establece medidas para luchar contra la discriminación. Moraga propone una Ordenanza Municipal contra la Discriminación basada en las reco-mendaciones que el Movimiento de Integración y Liberación Homosexual (Movilh) impulsó en el año 2008. El consejal ha expresado que todo comenzó “a raíz de una idea que parte desde mi persona, en el sentido de que tengamos una comuna igualitaria, donde no haya discrimi-nación en todo sentido, donde las personas que se atiendan en los servicios públicos, donde las personas que vayan a los colegios, o que van al consultorio, no sean discriminadas por su condición racial, por si tienen una discapacidad o porque tienen alguna tendencia sexual distinta”. El político ha defendido que “debemos estar abiertos a que algún día, quizás, cualquier persona de otra tendencia sexual, como una transexual, puede ser candidato a las municipales el 2012 y no por eso sea discriminado por los partidos políticos. En nuestra comuna no va a ser así; hoy lo propuse en el Concejo Municipal y los concejales tomaron el acuerdo y vamos a comenzar a trabajar en esta ordenanza”.

EL PARLAMENTO URUGUAYO RECIBIO PROYECTO PARA PERMITIR MATRIMONIO GAY Un proyecto de ley que habilita el matrimonio entre homosexuales ingresó este mes al Parlamento uruguayo impulsado por la gobernante coalición de izquierda Frente Amplio, que tiene la mayoría para su aprobación. El denominado proyecto de ley del matrimonio igualitario es autoría del diputado Sebastián Sabini que para su redacción se basó en uno similar aprobado el año pasado en Argentina. El proyecto de ley se presentó ante la Cámara de Diputados, posteriormente repartido a los legisladores de todos los partidos y luego comenzará su estudio en la comisión de Constitución Legislación y Código, señalaron a Efe fuentes parlamentarias. El proyecto busca modificar los artículos del Código Civil uruguayo que se refieren a marido y mujer para cambiarlos por cónyuges, pareja conyugal o esposos. El legislador Sabini aspira a que el proyecto sea aprobado por la Cámara de Diputados antes de finales de año y que la Cámara de Senadores vote favorablemente en los primeros meses de 2012.

ESTADOS UNIDOS POSEE CASI UN MILLON DE HOGARES FORMADOS POR PAREJAS DEL MISMO SEXO Según los resultados del último censo de población, correspondiente al año 2010, el número de parejas estadounidenses del mismo sexo que viven juntas y se identifican abiertamente como tales se ha disparado en una década, pasando de 594.391 a 901.997. El aumento ha sido además notable en estados considerados “conservadores”, como Montana, Nevada o Virginia. En estos tres estados, por ejemplo, el aumento ha sido superior al 90%, frente a un aumento de “solo” un 40% o menos en estados como California o Nueva York o en Washington D.C., territorios considerados más tolerantes hacia la realidad LGTB. Estos datos indicarían que gays, lesbianas y bisexuales de estados socialmente más conservadores serían los que más se están beneficiando

del cambio de percepción social hacia las parejas del mismo sexo que se está produciendo en Estados Unidos, que les permitiría identificarse públicamente con más facilidad. Los cinco territorios con más hogares formados por parejas del mismo sexo son Washington D.C. (casi 20 hogares de cada mil) y los estados de Vermont, Massachusetts, California y Oregón (alrededor de 10 hogares de cada mil). Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming y las dos Dakotas son los estados que contarían con menor proporción de hogares formados por parejas del mismo sexo. Entre las grandes ciudades, es San Francisco, (California) la que cuenta con la mayor proporción: 33’4 de cada mil hogares. Pero la que se lleva la palma es Provincetown, una pequeña ciudad de Massachusetts, en la que 163 de cada mil hogares están formado por

SHE -

shep32noticias.pmd

parejas del mismo sexo. Por lo que se refiere a las parejas legalmente reconocidas, según The Williams Institute hasta 2010 se habrían celebrado unas 50.000 bodas entre personas del mismo sexo en los estados de Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont y New Hampshire. Otras 85.000 parejas del mismo sexo de otros estados contarían con algún tipo de reconocimiento jurídico distinto al matrimonio (los datos no recogen cifras ni de Washington D.C. ni del estado de Nueva York, los dos últimos territorios en aprobar el matrimonio entre personas del mismo sexo en 2010 y 2011). Para ver datos especificos de los estados, visita shemag.com. Para ver datos de Florida, ver página 14 en este ejemplar.

32 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:14 AM

POR VERONICA ESPINAL

Sujey (camisa blanca) de 34 años y oriunda de Chihuahua, México y Violeta Pando de 28 años quien nació en Denver, Colorado.

MATRIMONIO LOGRA

DETENER DEPORTACION A mediado del mes pasado, el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional emitió nuevos parámetros de inmigración para algunas personas que se vean ante una posible deportación. La secretaria de dicho departamento, Janet Napolitano, detalló el nuevo proceso de examinar caso por caso según sus prioridades. De alta probabilidad de deportación serán casos donde se haya cometido un crimen o exista preocupación de seguridad nacional. De baja posibilidad de deportación están aquellos casos elegibles al Dream Act, veteranos de guerra, ancianos e inmigrantes con lazos familiares en este país y relaciones de pareja con indocumentados, incluyendo a las parejas del mismo sexo. A estos casos, se les pondrán un alto a la deportación e incluso serán elegibles para permiso de trabajo según cada caso. Aunque la administración Obama ha declarado que no seguirá su defensa a la sección 3 de DOMA (Acta de defensa al matrimonio entre mujer y hombre y no permite al gobierno Federal reconocer la validez del matrimonio entre parejas del mismo sexo) y si la ha declarado inconstitucional, aun no hay forma de ajuste legal para parejas gays/lesbicas. En este caso se encontraban Sujey de 34 años y oriunda de Chihuahua, México y Violeta Pando de 28 quien nació en Denver, Colorado. Se conocieron el Noviembre del 2006 en un club gay y contrajeron matrimonio legalmente el año 2010 en el estado de Iowa. Recientemente hablamos con Violeta sobre el paro a la orden de deportación de Sujey que consiguió el a-

bogado Lavi Soloway. Sujey tiene ahora una audiencia prevista para Enero, y el abogado dijo que buscará la permanencia de su representada en el país, pues su esposa Violeta Pando es ciudadana estadounidense. ¿EN QUÉ MOMENTO DECIDIERON CASARSE Y COMO FUE LA ACEPTACIÓN DE SU UNIÓN CON SU FAMILIA O LA FALTA DE LA MISMA?

Decidimos casarnos en el 2010 en el estado de Iowa. Fue una boda simple ya que nuestro proceso de inmigración había empezado desde el 2008. Fue muy espiritual y profunda. Nos acompaño mi madre Irene y la mejor amiga de Sujey, Margarita. ¿CUÁL HA SIDO EL PEOR MOMENTO QUE PASARON ANTES DEL PARO A LA DEPORTACIÓN?

Las dos hemos sufrido mucho con este caso. Me enfurece que estamos pasando todo esto solamente por la ley de DOMA, que es inconstitucional y viola nuestros derechos. Hemos estado peleando este caso desde el 2008 cuando Sujey fue detenida por una rutina de trafico. Estamos cansadas. Hemos invertido tanta energía, tanto dinero, y tanto esfuerzo. Hemos hasta quedado sin comida en el refrigerador. Tenemos insomnio de la preocupación y cuando podemos dormir, tenemos pesadillas. Sufrimos de nervios y ansiedad al pensar que algún día, pudiéramos estar separadas. AL HABER CONTRAÍDO MATRIMONIO LEGALMENTE EN IOWA, ¿EN QUÉ MOMENTO DECIDIERON BUSCAR AYUDA PARA EL CASO SHE -

shep33Entrevista.pmd

DE DEPORTACIÓN Y QUE FACTORES LES HICIERON SER CANDIDATAS PARA LOGRARLO?

En Agosto 18 se conoció la póliza de Janet Napolitano que nos dio esperanza de que tal vez nuestro matrimonio será reconocido, ya que indica que las parejas del mismo sexo serán reconocidas como familia. Conocimos a nuestro abogado Lavi Soloway con la organización de Stop The Deportations hace unos meses atrás y es una persona tan humanitaria, profesional y de unos sentimientos extraordinarios. ¿CUÁL ES LA SITUACIÓN LEGAL DE SUJEY EN ESTE MOMENTO Y QUE QUEDA POR HACER EN EL CASO?

En este momento la situación legal de Sujey esta en espera y no hay nada que hacer hasta que se cancele su caso y DOMA sea revocada. En este momento como su esposa, yo no puedo solicitar ciudadanía porque inmigración, a nivel federal, no reconoce los matrimonios del mismo sexo. ¿QUÉ LES PUEDEN DECIR A MUCHAS OTRAS PAREJAS GAYS/LESBIANAS QUE ESTÁN POSIBLEMENTE EN LA SITUACIÓN QUE TENÍAN USTEDES ANTES?

Es importante que salgan y hagan su caso público para que esto no siga sucediendo y se den cuenta que no están solos, que hay muchas parejas en la misma situación. Hay muchas organizaciones que nos ayudan y dan su apoyo, como StopTheDeportations.com. Es importante que el gobierno sepa cuantas personas son afectadas por leyes como DOMA.

33 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:14 AM

[ STOPTHEDEPORTATIONS.COM ]

VES ON THE SHEL SHELVES

JAN ‘02

WITH MARISSA COHEN

THE SECOND ANNUAL ONI WOMEN’S CONFERENCE IN FORT LAUDERDALE. .................................................................................... Andrea Myers would grow up to be a lesbian rabbi, but she started off as a young Lutheran girl living in Long Island. THE CHOOSING tells Myers’s story as she slowly learns to include her parents in her choices. The Choosing is not your typical chronological memoir. Instead, it focuses on vinettes of Myers’s life with her family as seen through the lens of traditional Jewish holidays. Funny, intelligent and with a strong emphasis on the importance of family tolerance, The Choosing is hysterical. Also worth nothing is Myers’s mother, who is well-intentioned but hilarious.

Leading sexologist Yvonne K. Fulbright (The Hot Guide to Safer Sex; Touch Me There!) joins forces with pregnancy fitness specialist Danielle Cavallucci on YOUR ORGASMIC PREGNANCY, an adorable and informative little book about having great sex during your pregnancy. It’s very inclusive of all kinds of partnerships (line drawings show both straight and lesbian couples having sex) with tips to spice up your sex life, pregnancy-safe sex techniques, and trimester-by-trimester breakdowns of ways to heat up the bedroom, either alone or with a partner.

Columbia writing professor and author of 2007’s Transparent: Love, Family and Living the T with Transgender Teenagers brings us I AM J, about a young transperson. As J realizes his true nature, he runs away to live in a special school for LGBT youth and begins a romance with a straight girl who believes that J is male-bodied. As J matures, he is able to seek guidance about everything from hormone shots to binders, and seeks life on his own terms. It’s about time someone wrote a book such a nuanced book about trans teens. Hats off, Cris Beam.

facebook

shemag

twitter

issuu

shemagazine

myspace

shemagazine

she_magazine

SHE -

shep35BooksArchives.pmd

34 - 9/11

9/1/2011, 10:29 AM

!IDI<&,<IJ?D6"&K6L6<?)&!$:M&,<?L@6<&,<IJ?D6 !I7,I4?@6&&N6J(+D@&4)<66L

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#$9:;11#<6(=%#456,>/*?@@%A)=< B5+<4=(%C&9,<?D&0EC&0.11&F"GF"H2&3$

SHE CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED

ACCOMMODATIONS

KEY WEST’S DISTINCTIVE RESORT Guesthouse ambience, resort amenities. Ideally located off Duval Street. Award-winning, renovated historic inn features 38 rooms and suites, two pools, two hot tubs, Pearl’s Patio bar, concierge service, Internet access, restaurant and friendly, welcoming staff. Member, World’s Foremost Gay and Lesbian Hotels. 800-749-6696, www.pearlsrainbow.com.

SELL SOMETHING YOU LOVE Sales representatives (FT or PT) in Dade, Broward, Palm Beach counties needed. Unlimited earning potential and some of the highest commissions in the industry! Sales experience, professionalism and a love for She a MUST! Orlando/Tampa Reps. welcome, too! Send resumes to info@shemag.com.

THE HIGHLANDS INN — LESBIAN PARADISE! Planet Out says “1 of the 10 best g/l guesthouses in North America!” Year-round women’s resort in Bethlehem, NH. 19 romantic rooms, 100 acres! Member of World’s Foremost Gay & Lesbian Hotels. 1-877-LES-B-INN • highlandsinn-nh.com.

FOSTER FAMILIES WANTED Homes needed for Newborns to 17 years. Financial Reimbursement. 24 Hour Support—Free Training. Weekly In-Home Contact—Respite. Foster Parent Bonuses—Developmental Disabilities and Special Health Care Needs Programs. Call 818/365-3665, x238. LIC#191500303

EVENTS PHOTOGRAPHERS

SHE SEARCHES

IT’S TIME FOR YOU TO BE IN SHE! She Girls: Send us a color photo with contact information. Indie Chicks: Send your press kit, CD and photos! Email us at: info@shemag.com.

Find us on the web! www.shemag.com Advertising in She: A Lot More Affordable Than You Think. Call Today 954-354-9751 SHE - 36 - 9/11

shep36_37class.PMD

9/1/2011, 10:16 AM

SHE CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES

SERVICES

SHE - 37 - 9/11

shep36_37class.PMD

9/1/2011, 10:16 AM

SHE SCOPES

WITH THE VILLAGE SAGE

AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 19 Don’t waste your time, energy, or cash deviating from ‘the plan.’ Be realistic as you assess your present situation and resources, including the present state of your health and the quality of your relationships. Avoid power struggles. Without a doubt you’re still the boss of you, but compromise and cooperation meets everyone’s needs and keeps everyone happy.

LEO JULY 23 - AUG 23 You’ve got lots of opportunities to increase your cash flow, and improve your finances. However, you’ve got to actually decide to take them before they’ll make a difference in your life. Use who you know to further your agenda. By all means, use what they know to ensure your own success, but don’t use their cash, even if they love your ideas and beg you.

PISCES FEB 20 - MAR 20 All of your relationships are changing and evolving. Your mind is filled with conscious, as well as subconscious, debris. Now’s the time to have deep, soul-searching conversation with yourself, and the significant others in your life, rather than just making ‘small talk.’ You need to draw protective energy to yourself as you are more emotionally vulnerable now.

VIRGO AUG 24 - SEPT 23 You feel on top of your game, happy and confident in yourself, your plans, and your success. When you’re good, you’re very, very good, and everyone you come into contact with wants to join your fan club. When you’re bad you’re truly, truly bad, and only you can prevent forest fires. Now’s the perfect time to change your reactions, because it’s the only thing you can control.

ARIES MAR 21 - APR 19 You’re best served by taking care of the everyday details of your life, even if they seem to be overwhelming. Don’t put off doing what needs to be done or making adjustments and improvements to your plans, projects or relationships. That includes your relationship to yourself. Now’s a good time to revise your own personal self with a commitment to exercise more, eat better, and play smarter.

LIBRA SEPT 24 - OCT 23 Your focus is on self-reflection, and self-improvement, as you review the past with special attention to miscommunications that you might have avoided, and mistakes you might not have made. Then, figure out how to ensure history doesn’t repeat itself. You’ll create new ways to solve your challenges. You’ll also have new resolve to move forward in positive, concrete ways.

TAURUS APR 20 - MAY 20 You have the opportunity to expand your sphere of influence and make strides towards achieving your long time goals. However, you’ll have to make the effort if you are to be successful. Use your creativity to improve upon existing situations, start new projects and revitalize your home. Just don’t make impulsive or risky financial moves because you feel frustrated or boxedin. Take your time.

SCORPIO OCT 24 - NOV 22 Your friends and family are more than happy to help you achieve your goals, including going out with you to play, party, and network your skills and services. There will be times, however, that people and events are out of your control and therefore, out of your comfort zone, and those are the times when you need to exercise control over your own words and deeds

GEMINI MAY 21 - JUN 21 Your ruler, the impish Mercury, is up to more of his tricks, so be careful that you don’t fall for any of them. Clear thinking and sharp focus is what’s called for, as well as a large dose of tact and a willingness to ask for clarification before you react to your thoughts. Be creative in your vision, don’t settle for the same old, same old but don’t make changes that undermine your security.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 - DEC 21 You’re energized and focused to do well at work, and earn respect, promotions, and not to mention more money. You’re still soooo easily distracted. No worries, you’ll still get to have some fun, but the good times have to take a backseat to the taking care of business side of life. You’ll have many opportunities to meet new, influential people.

CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22 You’ll enjoy lots of social interaction with family and friends locally, as well as more distant travel, but wherever you are and whoever you’re with, you’ll be interested and engaged. You’re open to listening to new ideas of how things should get done, as long as your voice is amongst those heard. You’re known for your feelings. Now you can wow them with your logic and your smarts. Present yourself with confidence and be flexible.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 - JAN 19 You get to be your own Genie in a bottle, and grant yourself your fondest wishes, but only if you back those hopes and dreams up with tangible, well thought out plans, and are very proactive in implementing them. It’s time to use your intuition, along with your intellect, in order to successfully get from here to there. No impatient, impulsive shortcuts please.

The Village Sage is a freelance writer and astologer, who is available for consultations and charts. You can reach her by e-mail at info@shemag.com.

SHE - 38 - 9/11

shep38scopes.pmd

9/1/2011, 10:16 AM

!J?J:&,:J=>?6"&K6L6:>)&!$MN&,:>L96:&,:J=>?6 !J7,J4>96&&O6=(+?9&4):66L

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#46,911#:6(;%#456,</=>?7=649@);: A5+:4;(%B&C6,967D6:&.1B&0.11&/"<E"<<&F$

!@A@=&,=@NBA6"&O6G6=B)&!$PQ&,=BGM6=&,=@NBA6 !@7,@4BM6&&R6N(+AM&4)=66G

100

!"#$%&'()*+,&--&./-.0-11&10123$#1114567(8#9:;<11#=6(>%#456,?.@ABCB(D)>= E=B>(%F&9+G6&.HF&0.11&/"I0"01&J$