THE FIGHT SOCAL'S LGBT MONTHLY MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2015 by The Fight Magazine

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THECONTENTS >> MORE TO COME <<

C O V E R S T O R I E S A N D F E AT U R E S

OTTERS, CUBS AND BEARS, OH MY!

18 THE INTERNATIONAL BEAR CONVERGENCE 18

RITES OF PASSAGE 19 TRIBE: LOS ANGELES LEATHER PRIDE

LEELAH 20 AFTER TRANSGENDER CRISIS HOTLINE RISING 24 LEO PAYASO’S CO-FOUNDER LEO IRIARTE BERLIN WITH LOVE 28 FROM GERMAN MR. LEATHER TYRONE RONTGANGER GAY CONVICTIONS 30 OVERTURNING ARCHAIC “INDECENCY” LAWS IN 34 FITTING BEING A MENTOR: GABRIEL GREEN BEAUTY 38 AMERICAN ERIC SCHWABEL, ALEX MINSKY THE ZINE 42 JIMMY QUEER ART CALENDAR

ON THE COVER COVER MODEL: LEO IRIARTE COVER PHOTO, MAIN TOC PHOTO AND FEATURE PHOTO BY: DUSTI CUNNINGHAM CORRECTION IN LAST MONTH’S ISSUE (#48) THE MAIN TOC PHOTO AND FEATURE PHOTO OF KARAMO BROWN WAS BY JEFFERY BEASLEY. WWW.JEFFERY-BEASLEY.COM DEPARTMENTS

08 THE CONTRIBUTORS THE TALENT 10 THE LETTERS READERS RESPOND 12 THE TALK JOEL GREY 15 THE STATE BOY SCOUTS 16 THE CITY MILEY CYRUS 22 THE ROSTOW REPORT PATRICIA TODD 32 THE LAW DAVID HAKIMFAR 36 THE SHARE LOCAL SOBRIETY 42 THE EVENT FAULTLINE, CYBERSOCKET

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44 THE CALENDAR THINGS TO DO 46 THE FINAL FIGHT MICHAEL LUCAS

THEEDITOR

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stanford Altamirano MANAGING EDITOR Mark Ariel ART DIRECTOR Nadeen Torio MARKETING CONSULTANTS Michael Bishop Matthew Kolas Tom Pardoe Eric Slayton >> IN THIS ISSUE <<

In this issue of THE FIGHT Gabriel Green interviews leatherman Leo Iriarte (“Leo Rising,” page 24). Iriarte, Mr. Regiment 2011, and Mr. Los Angeles Leather 2011, is well known and well respected in the leather community as a titleholder and as an activist. Iriarte is also the co-founder of the non-profit organization, The Payasos, a volunteer-based troupe of clowns comprised of gay Latinos in Los Angeles, dedicated to improving the lives of future generations. When asked about his inspirations outside of the leather community Iriarte reveals that he likes “reading about Ghandi, Mother Teresa, Buddha, the Dalai Lama. It’s not because I’m religious. I’m totally against religion but these are people that have changed the history of humanity. People that have made a big difference in people’s lives is what moves me to do things. I admire a lot of people for different reasons but people I admire the most are the ones who have done amazing things.” Also in this issue Mark Ariel interviews German Mr. Leather Tyrone Rontganger, a judge at next month’s Mr. LA Leather contest (“From Berlin With Love,” page 28). “My ex-partner lived in California

for several years, in Laguna Beach, so we used to come here to visit every February and spend about four weeks to escape the harsh German winters,” reveals Rontganger. Regarding the upcoming Mr. LA Leather contest in March, Rontganger says that “the most important thing for any Mister is that he must be approachable. People in the community often have questions or problems; some are lonely and need now and again someone to talk to or some personal support in difficult situations... It can be tough, but I think they’ve got to be able to feel that they can contact to you, that you’ll make a little time for them, where appropriate.” “You also have to be a role model,” says Rontganger. “I think we must set an example: that none of us should be ashamed of who and what we are... Gay men and women have been adjusting to the heterosexual way of life for thousands of years, now it’s time for us to stop adjusting and to start simply fitting in, the way we are.” And finally, this issue marks our 4th year anniversary. We would not be here without our loyal advertisers, distributors and readers. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support!

SOCIAL MEDIA Paulo Murillo WEBMASTER Nadeen Torio GET THE FIGHT AT HOME Sent Via First Class Mail 12 Issues: $36 6 Issues: $24 Mail check or money order to: Third Step, LLC 611 S. Catalina St. Suite 307 Los Angeles, CA 90005 PUBLISHER Third Step, LLC DISTRIBUTION Pride In Media The Fight Magazine is published monthly by Third Step, LLC. 611 South Catalina Street, Suite 307 Los Angeles, CA 90005 Telephone (323) 297-4001 Fax (213) 281-9648 Email info@TheFightMag.com THE FIGHT MAGAZINE LEGAL CAVEATS By listing in The Fight Magazine, advertisers acknowledge that they do business in the spirit of cooperation, fairness and service, maintaining a high level of integrity and responsibility. Providers of products or services are fully and solely responsible for providing same as advertised. The Fight Magazine assumes no liability for improper or negligent business practices by advertisers. Advertisers and their agencies assume responsibility and liability for the content of their advertisements in The Fight Magazine. Publisher assumes no liability for safe-keeping or return of unsolicited art, manuscripts or other materials. The Fight Magazine reserves the right to edit all material for clarity, length and content. All contents © 2015 Third Step LLC. All rights reserved. Content may be reproduced with permission. The Fight Magazine assumes no liability for any claims or representations contained anywhere in this magazine and reserves the right to cancel or refuse advertising at publisher’s discretion.

TheFightMag.com STANFORD ALTAMIRANO Editor-In-Chief

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THECONTRIBUTORS >> OUR WRITERS <<

PAULO MURILLO West Hollywood resident Paulo Murillo has been writing for gay media for over twelve years. He got his start writing a bi-weekly column called “Luv Ya, Mean It” for FAB! Newspaper. Visit his website at thehissfit.com, or friend him on Facebook. ANN ROSTOW Ann Rostow writes news analysis columns for THE FIGHT and other gay publications across the country. For weekly LGBT News updates, visit her blog at: annrostow.blogspot.com. Ann can be reached at: arostow@aol.com. GABRIEL GREEN Mr. LA Leather Bear 2014 and first runner-up Mr. LA Leather 2014, Gabriel Green is an active member of the local leather community. Green has worked at the Los Angeles LGBT Center with homeless youth, teaching kids about HIV prevention and being safe on the streets. He is originally from Newport, Rhode Island. VICTOR MELAMED Victor Melamed began his career in journalism writing for the now-defunct Israeli gay magazine “Magaim.” He is currently working on a novel based on a true story about a love affair between two men on opposite sites of the Middle East conflict.

Murillo

Rostow

Mills

Hakimfar

Green

Melamed

Lyonne

Lucas

DAVID HAKIMFAR Los Angeles based Attorney David Hakimfar received his law degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego. While there, he made the Honor Roll and National Dean’s List. Currently David Hakimfar is a Trial Attorney and Senior Partner of Hakimfar Law, PLC. He can be reached at: 1-888-789-PRIDE (7743).

the fields of men’s health and wellness, Dr. Mills serves as the primary care provider for over 2,000 patients, including approximately 1,000 living with HIV. Dr. Mills received both his undergraduate and medical degrees from Duke University. He completed an internship in Internal Medicine, a residency in Anesthesiology and a fellowship in Cardiovascular Anesthesiology, all at the University of California, San Francisco. He can be contacted via his website: SoCalMensHealth.com

Cunningham

MICHAEL LUCAS Michael Lucas is an American, Russian, Israeli gay adult film actor, director, activist, writer and the founder and CEO of Lucas Entertainment, New York’s largest gay adult film company. He is a columnist for The Advocate, Huffington Post and Pink News. TONY MILLS, MD A leading LA-based clinician in

ORLY LYONNE Orly Lyonne is a freelance journalist, focusing on issues related to LGBT equality, culture and art. Her passions include skydiving, community theater and vegan restaurants. Orly can be reached at orlylyonne@gmail.com. DUSTI CUNNINGHAM Los Angeles based photographer Dusti Cunningham grew up in a very clean single-wide trailer home in rural Kansas. His family didn’t own television so they watched tornadoes. None of his dogs were named Toto. Dolly Parton and his mother were his heroes, both wore wigs. His inspirations are gypsies, pirates, circuses, 1970s glamour, and the National Enquirer. www.dusticunningham.com

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THELETTERS >> FROM OUR READERS <<

BOY KINGSTERS Dear Editor, Writing to thank and commend you for your January cover with Karamo Brown (“Owning It,” THE FIGHT Issue #48). It’s great to see more diversity. Not only is he very easy on the eyes, he seems to have more family and career substance in his life than some of the usual cover boy kingsters and twisted sisters. Enjoying your magazine more and more each time that I pick one up. Keep up the good work! —Bob E. Brown, Rancho Mirage, CA

THEIR VOICES Dear Editor, Such a beautiful man, Karamo Brown, inside and out (“Owning It,” THE FIGHT Issue #48). We need more people of color in the community to step up and have their voices heard. I hope the cover feature on him in your new year’s issue will be the beginning of positive change. —Reggie Lakewood, via the internet

MILK’S SAKE Dear Editor, Isn’t it way past time that the gay media stopped using the term, “openly gay,” when it is simply referring to someone’s sexual orientation (“Openly Gay Kish to Head DFEH,” THE FIGHT Issue #48)? The only info “openly gay Kevin Kish” conveys to your readers that “gay Kevin Kish” does not is the fact that apparently “The Fight” considers not being in the closet to be noteworthy (which sounds more like “The Surrender” than “The Fight” to me!). It harkens back to the “outing” days of the 90s when to identify someone in the media as being gay was considered potentially libelous, so journalists started using “openly gay” to essentially absolve themselves of any “guilt” in the matter: “We aren’t the ones calling him that; he says it about himself!” It’s 2015, for Harvey Milk’s sake! Referring to someone--especially in the gay media--as “openly gay” is as offensive as it would be were you to refer to Barbra Streisand as an “openly Jewish singer.” —Ian Stulberg, via the internet

> WRITE TO THE EDITOR

Email: editor@thefightmag.com Fax: (213) 281-9648. Letters may be shortened due to space requirements.

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THETALK >> W H AT T H E Y ’ R E S AY I N G <<

—Gwen Stefani, in an interview with PrideSource last month. The former No Doubt frontwoman explained how important it is that her three sons Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo know that “there’s no wrong way to express themselves.”

PATRICK STEWART

KEVIN HART

A NATURAL “There was never a moment where I made an intellectual choice that I would be a supporter of gay civil rights. It was always a natural and uncomplicated choice. Then later in life, as I got to know well-known activists like Ian McKellen, I was only too happy to join campaigns, march, and support in whatever way I could because it always seemed to me to be something that much too much fuss was being made about.” —Patrick Stewart in an interview with The Advocate.

BILLY CRYSTAL

SHOVE IT “Sometimes, it’s just pushing it a little too far for my taste and I’m not going to reveal to you which ones they are. I hope people don’t abuse it and shove it in our face— well, that sounds terrible—to the point where it feels like an everyday kind of thing.” —Comedian Billy Crystal, who played one of the first gay characters on television, saying that LGBT content on TV goes “too far” at a Television Critics Association presentation in Pasadena last month. GWEN STEFANI

DEAR ABBY

THE MOON

“If your son is under the mistaken impression that he is going to somehow ‘protect’ his children by isolating them from gay people, he must be living in an alternate reality. Does he also plan to emigrate to the moon?” —Famed advice columnist Dear Abby last month in response to a gay grandmother whose son had shut her out of his life—and the lives of her grandchildren.

MAKE SENSE “I don’t think I’m really going to dive into that role 100% because of insecurities about myself trying to play that part. Does that make sense?” —Actor Kevin Hart in an interview with the New York hip-hop radio station Power 105.1, explaining why wasn’t comfortable portraying a gay character on screen. It’s “not because I have any ill will or disrespect,” Hart clarified. The actor also told the radio station that he had turned down a gig as a gay character in 2008 comedy “Tropic Thunder.”

ROBBIE ROGERS

OUR LIVES “If actions speak louder than words, then the message FIFA sends to gay athletes is painfully clear. Not only don’t they have our backs, our lives don’t matter.” —Openly gay professional soccer player Robbie Rogers in an op-ed in USA Today last month. Rogers took FIFA, the sport’s international governing body, to task for choosing Russia and Qatar as the hosts of the next World Cups, to be held in 2018 and 2022, respectively. The two nations criminalize same-sex activity or supposed gay “propaganda.”

JOEL GREY

TIGER STRIPE “... Being unique and original is what makes me happy, and I think that rubs off on them... My sons did nails just the other day ... I literally have 400 bottles of nail polish, so they took them all out and put them all over the bathroom. We really played ‘salon’ and we did tiger stripe nails.”

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ANDERSON COOPER

GAYS PLOT “I’ve never actually been to the secret meeting where the gays plot their agenda, though I imagine the catering is quite amazing.” —CNN’s Anderson Cooper on his Ridiculist segment last month, in response to an op-ed in the Christian Post on the media’s so-called “gay agenda.”

PUT A LABEL “I don’t like labels, but if you have to put a label on it, I’m a gay man.” —Theater legend Joel Grey coming out in an interview in People magazine. Grey was married for 24 years and has two children: actress Jennifer Grey and son James, a chef. He says, “It took time to embrace that other part of who I always was.”

DECEMB ER 2014 | TH E F I GH T 13

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THESTATE >> J U D G E S A N D B O Y S C O U T S <<

CALIFORNIA BARS JUDGES FROM BOY SCOUTS MEMBERSHIP

alifornia’s Supreme Court voted last month to prohibit state judges from belonging to the Boy Scouts on grounds that the group discriminates against gays. The court said its seven justices unanimously voted to heed a recommendation by its ethics advisory committee barring judges’ affiliation with the organization, reports The Associated Press. In 1996 the state Supreme Court banned judges from belonging to groups that discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation, but made an exception for nonprofit youth organizations. The Supreme Court’s Advisory Committee on the Code of Judicial Ethics in February recommended eliminating the exception to enhance public confidence in the judiciary. The group allows the participation of openly gay boys but continues to prohibit gay and lesbian adults from serving as leaders. The Boys Scouts of America couldn't immediately be reached for comment. The proposed rule change was sent out for public comment last year, and the change was supported by the California Judges Association, the court said. “The only remaining exception to the general rule is membership in a religious organization,” said Fourth District Court of Appeal Justice Richard D. Fybel, chair of the Supreme Court’s Advisory Committee on the Code of Judicial Ethics. “One other exception—belonging to a military organization—was eliminated as well, because the U.S. armed forces no longer restrict military service based on sexual orientation,” Fybel added, reports The Associated Press. Of 47 states that ban judges from joining discriminatory groups, 22 states, including California, include a bar on groups that show bias on the basis of sexual orientation. California was the only one of those states that made exceptions for youth groups. Judges will have until January 21, 2016 to comply with the new rule. n FEB R UAR Y 2015 | THE F I GH T 15

THECITY >> BY PAULO MURILLO <<

which is part of the Center’s comprehensive programs that help LGBT youth transition from being homeless to self-sufficient.

DON BROOKS

GENDER-NEUTRAL RESTROOMS NOW IN EFFECT

A DAWN MELODY DALUISE

GAY MAN ATTACKED IN WEHO

heriff’s deputies are seeking leads on three men who attacked a young gay male as he walked home on Santa Monica Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue in West Hollywood, on Tuesday, January 20. CBS2 News reports that the victim, Don Brooks, 31, was walking home alone, after commemorating Martin Luther King Jr. Day with friends when three men pulled up in a car, shouted gay and racial slurs at him and then jumped out of their vehicle and attacked him. Brooks said that when he got up he was covered in blood. He was taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for treatment and released shortly after. Brooks was unable to identify his attackers and only remembers that they were Hispanic. Anyone with information is asked to contact deputies at (310) 855-8850.

was no evidence that anyone acted to carry out an attack on Gabriel Suarez, who had opened a competing skin care business, Smooth Cheeks, near her Skin Refinery salon at 8543 Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood.

MILEY CYRUS VISITS LA LGBT CENTER

he Los Angeles LGBT Center welcomed singer and activist Miley Cyrus to the Center last month for a tour of the LA LGBT Center’s Youth Center with CEO Lorri L. Jean. Cyrus met with a group of homeless LGBT youth who make up more than 1,100 homeless youth who are helped by the Center each year. She joined one of the Center’s Smart sessions,

BEAUTICIAN FOUND NOT GUILTY OF MURDER SOLICITATION

est Hollywood skin care beautician Dawn Melody DaLuise was acquitted last month of charges alleging she solicited the murder of a rival gay business owner. According to authorities, there

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MARY ANN MCCLINTOCK

MOURNING THE LOSS OF MADAME MICKY’S

n ordinance requiring single-stall, gender-neutral restrooms in businesses and public places went into effect last month in the city of West Hollywood. All singlestall restrooms in businesses and public places in the City of West Hollywood are now required to be gender-neutral. The ordinance has no impact on multiple-stall restrooms in the City.

eHo residents are mourning the recent loss of WeHo Gay Icon and long-time Micky’s nightclub manager, Mary Ann McClintock, who passed away last month. WEHOville reports that McClintock had been in poor health since she was treated for a brain aneurism back in November, 2013. McClintock worked at the popular gay bar for 25 years. Back in the 90s, young gay men called her “Madame Micky’s.” She would later be dubbed as “The woman behind all the men.”

CUPID’S UNDIE RUN FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

en and women of all shapes and sizes dare to bare their unmentionables-all in the name of charity at the annual Cupid’s Undie Run on Valentine’s Day weekend. Everyone is encouraged to put some hilarity in charity with hundreds of half-naked runners taking to the streets in celebration of their fundraising for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. It all starts at The Abbey in West Hollywood on February 14 at 12pm. For information on how to start a team, join a team or just run solo, visit: cupidsundierun.com/ city/los-angeles. n

Bullied Gay Teen Tragedy Harassed California gay teen charged with shooting student gets 27-year sentence, eligible for release on parole after 13 years. BY VICTO R MELA MED

gay teenager charged with shooting a classmate in the chest at his central California high school two years ago accepted a plea agreement with prosecutors last month for a 27-year sentence in state prison. Bryan Oliver, 18, pleaded no contest to two counts of attempted murder in wounding the student, the Bakersfield Californian reported. Under the agreement, Oliver will be eligible for release on parole after 13 years. In January 2013, Oliver, then 16, entered Taft Union High School in Kern County armed with a shotgun, shot a classmate and fired at a second before dropping the weapon, authorities said. Attorneys declined to comment last month, citing a gag order that will remain in place until Oliver's formal sentencing set for Feb. 26. At Oliver's December trial, Deputy Public Defender Paul Cadman told jurors that the teen was bullied and snapped because classmates made fun of his red hair and weight. Students also hurled homophobic slurs at Oliver, who was coming to terms with being gay, the attorney said. A judge declared a mistrial after jurors deadlocked. Victim Bowe Cleveland testified that after being shot, Oliver stood over him. Bowe said he lay on the classroom floor struggling to breathe and told Oliver he didn't need to shoot again. "I told him he had killed me," said Bowe, 18. "I was already going to die." Cleveland testified that Oliver smiled and responded, "I know." The shooting has sparked lawsuits and claims. Oliver's parents are seeking $5.5 million from Taft Union High School District, saying it failed to protect their son from bullying and sexual harassment. The district has sued the city of Taft, claiming the shooting would not have happened if a school resource officer had been on duty. Cleveland's family is suing the district for failing to protect Cleveland. n FEB R UAR Y 2015 | THE F I GH T 17

>> BEARS IN MIND <<

Otters, Cubs And Bears, Oh My! The International Bear Convergence this month in Palm Springs. BY VICTO R MELA MED

he second International Bear Convergence (IBC), the premier winter event for Bears & admirers in Palm Springs, takes place takes place this month on February 12-16, 2015, Presidents’ Day Weekend, at The Renaissance Palm Springs. The four-day event includes themed pool parties, live entertainment and thou-

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sands of bears from around the globe. “The IBC team is astounded as to how the event has grown in size in one year,” says Stevo Harris, the event’s producer, in an interview with THE FIGHT. “It’s going to be a packed event for sure—we are getting swamped with phone calls! The hotel can still be booked on line through the IBC web site. There have been

a few cancellations so as those rooms open, we are putting them back into the system.” “There are still packages available and those will go back on sale Friday morning, February 13th at 9am at the host hotel lobby,” reveals Harris. “You can purchase tickets to any of the events at the door and we are expecting a huge crowd for the Ultra Naté and Amber concert. Oh and they will be selling their CDs and signing autographs after the concert. If you are coming to the concert, make sure you get to the hotel at 9pm to purchase your concert ticket.” For more info—and to reserve tickets—visit: www.ibc-ps.com.

Tribe: Rites Of Passage Los Angeles Leather Pride kicks off next month. Tickets are on sale now. BY VICTO R MELA MED

he theme this year for LA Leather Pride Week—March 22-29, 2015 is “TRIBE: Rites of Passage,” as the Los Angeles Leather Coalition celebrates the different roads they have taken into the community and the camaraderie that keeps them together. “I have never been more proud or excited to be a part of the Los Angeles Leather community. It is a great pleasure to serve as your L.A. Leather Pride Chairman for 2015 along with our outstanding volunteers and dedicated planning committee members,” says Committee Chair Marlon Morales. “Each new year has brought record attendance, new and exciting events and growth in sponsorship,” reveals Morales. “Our 16th year is a turning point as we continue to innovate and make improvements that are making us one of the most established, prosperous, and influential leather events in the world.” The highlight of Leather Pride will be the selection of Mr. Los Angeles Leather 2015, which will take place on Saturday, March 28 at Club 333 Live in Downtown LA. Added to LA Leather Pride will be the wild and popular Off Sunset Festival street fair on Sunday March 29, 2015 the day after the Mr. LA Leather contest and Legion dance, reports The Leather Journal at theleatherjournal.com. Also confirmed to be returning for 2015, reports The Leather Journal, are the Southland Honors Awards celebration, The Assembly Uniform Reception, Tribal Rites Play Party, Legion Dance as well as other festivities. A series of Mr. LA Leather feeder contests have been, and are being held across the county by various clubs and businesses. The qualifying contest schedule is posted on laleatherpride.com and will be updated as new dates are added. n Ticket packages for Los Angeles Leather Pride are on sale now. Special lower pricing is available this month through February 28. Ticket Packages can be purchased online at laleatherpride.com/tickets. FEB R UAR Y 2015 | THE F I GH T 17

>> MASCULINITY AND BROTHERHOOD <<

After LEELAH Transgender organization’s crisis hotline shot up from 60 a day to nearly 150 immediately after reports of Leelah Alcorn’s death began spreading.

BY ORLY LYONNE

fter winning the Golden Globe award for best TV series, comedy or musical last month, Jill Soloway, creator of the show “Transparent,” took the stage and announced that “this award is dedicated to Leelah Alcorn and to many trans people who die too young.” Alcorn was a transgender teen who committed suicide last December after documenting her parents’ emotional abuse, sparking outrage and sympathy from the public. “Transparent,” a show that is about a Los Angeles family discovering that their father is transgender, is a series that literally would not be possible without the existence and support of transgender community—something Soloway respectfully acknowledged during her speech. The story of Leelah Alcorn, named Joshua Alcorn at birth, gained worldwide attention after messages on her social media account documented her struggles. Leelah killed herself by stepping onto a busy road in Ohio, in the early hours of December 28. In her final message on her Tumblr blog, she pleaded: “My death needs to mean something. ... Fix society. Please.”

ONLINE PETITIONS From the parking lot of her former suburban high school to London’s Trafalgar Square, thousands have attended vigils in memory of the transgender teen. Tens of thousands have discussed her on social media or signed online petitions in support of transgender people. Alcorn’s selfies and poignant messages hit home among many transgender people who say they have faced disapproving families, discrimination or violence. 20 T H E F I GH T | www.thefightmag.com

Alcorn complained of depression and isolation on her Tumblr blog, lamented that her life would only get worse, and expressed frustration that her parents wanted her to be “their perfect little straight Christian boy.” She said she was taken to “Christian therapists” who were “very biased.” Studies have found extraordinarily high suicide and attempted suicide rates among transgender youth. A 2010 survey found 41 percent of transgender people responding said they had tried to kill themselves, reports The Associated Press.

COPYCAT SUICIDES While there’s concern among experts and transgender leaders that the immense attention to Alcorn’s death could lead to copycat suicides, some say it has belatedly pushed important issues into the spotlight. “I think this had to happen at some point,” said Greta Martela, founder of San Francisco-based Trans Lifeline. “I think that we have to have a discussion about this as a society.” Martela said calls to her organization’s crisis hotline shot up from 60 a day to nearly 150 immediately after reports about the death began spreading. Trans Lifeline is the first U.S. suicide hotline dedicated to transgender people. Its founders hope that the “by trans people, for trans people” approach will help address the staggering overrepresentation of trans people within suicide rate statistics. Transgender people in crisis can call the Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860 or The Trevor Project’s 24/7 Lifeline at 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386). For general transgender resources in Los Angeles visit the LA LGBT Center at www.lalgbtcenter.org.

FEB R UAR Y 2015 | T H E F I GH T 21

THEROSTOWREPORT >> BY ANN ROSTOW <<

country, in a mess. Just the sort of chaos that the Court is theoretically obliged—not to foment—but to resolve.

MILES TO TROMP BEFORE OUR WORK IS DONE

T “... In the course of all the [marriage equality] hoo-haw, Patricia Todd, Alabama’s gay legislator, told her holier-than-thou fellow lawmakers that she wouldn’t hesitate to tell the press which of her colleagues are having extra-marital affairs if they didn’t lay off the smarmy rhetoric about marriage.”

MOMENT OF TRUTH AROUND THE CORNER

’m sure THE FIGHT readers know by now that the U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to review the marriage cases coming out of the four states in the Sixth Circuit; Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. Two of the cases involve marriage equality, and two others are limited to marriage recognition. As such, the Court asked lawyers to address two questions: First, are states constitutionally required to marry same-sex couples? Second, are states constitutionally required to recognize legally married same-sex couples who got married outside their borders? Some observers have jumped to the simplistic conclusion that the Court has given itself a so-called “off ramp,” preserving the option to rule that, on the one hand, states don’t have to offer marriage equality, but on the other hand, they do have to recognize all the marriages from their sister states. Such a compromise looks on the surface as if it would satisfy states’ rights adherents, while effectively legalizing marriage throughout the country. But actually, that sort of half-baked result would overturn the decisions from dozens of lower federal courts and no less than four federal appellate circuits. Most likely, it would lead to similar antigay rulings from the Eleventh, Eighth and Fifth Circuits. And worst of all, it would no doubt lead recalcitrant states like Oklahoma, South Carolina and Idaho to roll back marriage celebration rights that are already in place. Last, the arguments in favor of marriage recognition are quite close to those that buttress marriage equality. For the Court to weave in and out of constitutional focus by ruling yes on the first and no on the second would be leave the legal situation, and the 2 2 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

he Court accepted these cases at the last minute, on January 16. That leaves relatively little time for briefs, due in mid-April, and will probably lead to late April oral arguments. The equality people have ninety minutes to talk, while the recognition people have an hour. A decision is expected at the very end of term, last days of June or maybe the first day or so of July. Much speculation in our legal community now revolves around whether the Court will issue a strong gay rights ruling, based on Equal Protection, a vague gay rights ruling that leaves our community’s constitutional status still shrouded, to steal a phrase from Justice Scalia, in “legal argle bargle,” or a classic Due Process opinion that extends the fundamental right to marry to same-sex couples without necessarily advancing our underlying cause. What’s most important is that virtually no one believes the five-member gay rights majority will rule against us. In an earlier article on this subject, I fretted about my personal fear, the idea that Chief Justice Roberts would side with the majority, assign the opinion to himself, and deliberately compose a clunker of a ruling that grudgingly allows marriage without advancing gay equality. I was cheered, however, when a distinguished law professor assured me that Roberts is extremely unlikely to move to our corner, not even for strategic purposes and not withstanding the knowledge that a minor-

ity stand will land him on the wrong side of history for posterity. Good. I hope he’s right, because that sort of maneuver could result in a mishmash of concurrences and individual essays with scant impact on our legal work going forward. And going forward is what it’s all about. Even with marriage equality in the bag, we have miles to tromp before our work is done. Without a strong opinion, without a High Court precedent that will stop antigay shenanigans in their tracks, the door is open to all kinds of religiously based backlash laws. Already, the Washington Blade reports, a dozen states have proposed antigay bills that range from the right to refuse service, to prison time for public servants who issue marriage licenses. Yes, some of these proposals are absurd. But it only takes a few to embed discrimination into the infrastructure of state law. Oklahoma, for example, has no less than eight antigay measures on its legislative agenda.

CHIEF JUSTICE ROY MOORE: LUDICROUS ARGUMENTS

eanwhile, in a busy month for marriage equality, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit heard arguments on three marriage cases out of Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi. In a stroke of luck, we pulled a fairly reasonable three-judge panel out of the country’s most conservative pool of appellate judges, so there’s actually a chance that the outcome will be positive. Even so, an appeal to the full Fifth Circuit would likely reverse a victory. Plus, there’s a chance that this litigation might stall pending the activities at the High Court. Over in Alabama, a federal

> > M O M E N T O F T R U T H , M I L E S T O T R O M P, C H I E F J U S T I C E R O Y M O O R E , W A T C H I T < <

judge overturned the state’s marriage ban in two separate decisions, leaving the ruling on hold until February 9 as a courtesy to state officials. Sure enough, said officials have asked the Eleventh Circuit to stay the ruling throughout the appellate process, but here’s the catch. This is exactly what happened to Florida the month before, and in that case, the Eleventh Circuit refused to cooperate. Florida then ran screaming to the Supreme Court, where again, no extended stay was issued and the Sunshine State was promptly added to the marriage equality list. Considering that the identical situation is now at hand in Alabama, there’s every reason to expect that the stay will expire on February 9 and marriages will then begin in the heart of Dixie. Alabama’s Chief

Justice, Roy Moore, promptly released a letter explaining that the state is not under the jurisdiction of federal courts, particularly those using “specious pretexts” in their attempt to trample on Alabama’s God given right to define marriage. Moore, famous for refusing to dismantle a ten-ton Ten Commandments installation in the state’s main courthouse (despite, yes, a federal court order) cited four cases from over a century ago, along with some scripture, in making his ludicrous argument. Oh, I have to add that in the course of all the hoo haw, Patricia Todd, Alabama’s gay legislator, told her holier-thanthou fellow lawmakers that she wouldn’t hesitate to tell the press which of her colleagues are having extra-marital affairs if they didn’t lay off the smarmy rhetoric about marriage.

IF YOU CAN’T DO IT, WATCH IT

’m sorry for all the serious news this month, but what can you do? I did read that Pakistan, where gay sex is illegal, leads the world in Google searches for gay porn. Well, I guess if you can’t do it, watch it. And a bakery in Denver refused to decorate two Bibleshaped cakes with antigay messages, leading the outraged customer to file a discrimination claim. Bill Jack wanted one cake to read “God hates gays,” and he wanted the other to show two men embracing with a big “X” on top. The baker refused, but you know what? Colorado forbids discrimination on the basis of race, creed, sexual orientation, etc. It doesn’t forbid a baker from refusing to ice a swastika, or in this case, a nasty comment. And no, it’s not a

violation of Mr. Jack’s Christian faith either. I’m assuming the relevant state agency will tell this guy to Jack off. Finally, I was pleased by a court ruling in Illinois, where a Chicago area community college banned some religious nut from passing out antigay fliers. The nut sued, and won, which reminds us again of the power and wisdom of the First Amendment, which forbids viewpoint discrimination in a public setting. The baker can say no to hate speech, but the state can’t and nor should it. Instead, it’s up to those of us with the opposite viewpoint to triumph in the marketplace of ideas, where we surely shall. No other country protects freedom to such a degree, and indeed, ironically, we’ve just seen the French call for greater hate speech restrictions in the aftermath of Charlie Hebdo. n

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LEO Rising

Leatherman and Payaso’s co-founder Leo Iriarte on polyamory, sexual freedom, Mother Teresa and making a difference in people’s lives.

BY G A BRIEL GREEN | PHOTO BY DUSTI CUNNI NGHAM

n the exciting, close-knit world of local leathermen Leo Iriarte has held numerous titles. He was third runner up for Eagle LA Mr. Leather 2010, first runner up for Mr. Oil Can Harry’s Leather 2010 and also first runner up Mr. Sister Leather 2010. Not easily discouraged Iriarte became Mr. Regiment in 2011—and in the same year—he won Mr. Los Angeles Leather. Iriarte is also the co-founder of the nonprofit organization, the Payasos, a volunteer-based troupe of clowns comprised of gay Latinos in Los Angeles, dedicated to improving the lives of future generations. Born and raised in Mexico, Iriarte moved to California 14 years ago. He is well known and well respected in the leather community as a titleholder and as an activist. In an interview with THE FIGHT Iriarte talks about the culture of leather, sexual freedom, Mother Teresa and making a difference in people’s lives.

I’m still around in the leather community is because the people who are in it, truly in it, are people who love your spirit, who love your soul and your actions. So I think that’s what is, for me, [the draw] of being in the leather community and enjoying all of this beautiful stuff... and, of course, the sex [laughs].

How was the experience moving from Mexico to California? Well it was a bit of a challenge—but all in all it’s been great. It’s been an ongoing process being from one place and transculturing—but I’ve always enjoyed learning new things... Gay life is more open here. Coming here in my 30s, it was a different kind of life for me because I began to take more responsibility for my actions and my behaviors when it came to being a gay man living in our community—or any kind of community... I guess you could say I made an effort to be more responsible for myself as a gay man and as a man.

You are Mr. Regiment 2011 and also Mr. Los Angeles Leather 2011. How would you define being a titleholder? For me a titleholder is a leader in the community, someone capable to make a little bit of a difference in someone else’s life... someone who is going to be there for the people. There are titleholders who focus on parties, which to me is also valid. As long as you are doing something that brings people together, it doesn’t matter what you do. Inspiring people to take chances, go out, meet other folks, who just might change something in your life, or teach you something new—that, to me, is what a titleholder should be doing.

What attracted you to leather culture? The absolute freedom. Freedom of sexuality, freedom of speech, freedom of thinking, freedom of everything. One of the reasons 2 4 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

For me a titleholder is a leader in the community, someone capable to make a little bit of a difference in someone else’s life... someone who is going to be there for the people.

Speaking of making a difference in people’s lives, you are a co-founder of

a group called The Payasos. For those who don’t know, what is a Payaso and what made you form the group? “Payaso” is a word for clown. We dress up as clowns but we are not regular clowns. We are leather clowns. We are sexy clowns, not the clowns who go to kids’ parties... We dress as clowns to fundraise money for different charities. We help kids with HIV and autism. We support different organizations worldwide. We have worked with people that help kids with cleft palates. We support “Hope House” in El Monte—which helps people with developmental issues... What got me into it was one of my friends, who is pretty much my brother. He is a clown—a regular clown for kids. Years ago on his birthday, he invited a group of us to go out as clowns and we did. When we were out in the gay club, people started paying attention to us. There were like five of us and they were asking why we were doing it... So, I thought about it ... I always wanted to have a group of people working to together— helping other people. I was familiar with the Sisters (Of Perpetual Indulgence) but I never identified with drag or painting myself like the Sisters—but I wanted to do some sort of character. So when we were at the party with my friend that night, everything connected. I left the club and I asked my friend, the clown “What if we do this?” and he loved the idea and we did it. We were planning on doing it just once, but then people started asking me “What is this? I heard about some clowns! We want more!” We did it again and I started calling friends to see if they wanted to get involved and they started getting involved and here we are five years later... What’s going on in your life at the moment? Right now I’m in the middle of a relationship that is not very common. People

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is never going to resolve for you and never going to help you with. But your neighbor is going to. My global message, if I had the opportunity, would be let’s help each other.

call it polyamory. Other people call it a three way... It’s just happening for us and I don’t know how exactly to define it. What would you say is the key to success in a polyamorous relationship? Communication and trust. I say that because I learned it in a hard way. It’s been three years and since we’ve been together, a lot of people have come to us asking for advice... All the issues that we’ve been through or had in the past have been because, at some point, someone was not a 100% trustful in saying what they were exactly feeling or what was happening or because we didn’t say anything and we just let it happen. It can be complicated if you don’t really communicate what you’re feeling. It’s about commu-

nication and having information about what is happening with everyone else. Is there anything else you want to do within the community? Well I have some projects waiting. I’m just waiting for the right time for them... I would love to help people to be happy with their sexuality and support people that have been attacked because of their sexual preferences... I always try to be more focused on helping people through—because I went through that. I went through all those issues and all those repressions. I want to help create more healthy people, mentally, in our community, in our group and in our families. There are so many things that government

Who are your inspirations outside of the leather community? I like reading about Ghandi, Mother Teresa, Buddha, the Dalai Lama. It’s not because I’m religious. I’m totally against religion but these are people that have changed the history of humanity. People that have made a big difference in people’s lives is what moves me to do things. I admire a lot of people for different reasons but people I admire the most are the ones who have done amazing things. For the upcoming class of 2015 and beyond, what advice do you have for the next generation of titleholders? Just enjoy. Titles are to enjoy, to have fun, to represent yourself and to do things for other people. People you love, people who are your friends, your family. It’s just to be out there, so relax and enjoy.

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>> BY ANN ROSTOW <<

“Gay men and women have been adjusting to the heterosexual way of life for thousands of years, now it’s time for us to stop adjusting and to start simply fitting in, the way we are.” there! I’m always aware that I’m just a little European in this huge, new-world city that you usually only get to see on TV and in films and dream about. When you live in Europe and you think of LA, you think of pop stars, film stars, porn stars and sunshine, so when you actually get the chance to visit, it’s just amazing! Everything in Los Angeles is big and fantastic. And I particularly like how creative people are,” says Rontganger.

EASY ATTITUDE

From BERLIN With LOVE German Mr. Leather Tyrone Rontganger, a judge at next month’s Mr. LA Leather contest, on his love for Los Angeles, racism within the community and setting an example. BY MA RK A RIEL

yrone Rontganger, German Mr. Leather 2014, will be in Los Angeles next month as one of the judges at the Mr. LA Leather contest. Born in London—Rontganger has lived in Germany for the past 25 years. However he is no stranger to Los Angeles. “My ex-partner lived in California for 2 8 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

several years, in Laguna Beach, so we used to come here to visit every February and spend about four weeks to escape the harsh German winters,” reveals Rontganger in an interview with THE FIGHT. “Although we were based in Laguna Beach—we spent lots of time in Los Angeles. I always feel so small and humble when I’m

“Germans have a very easy attitude towards leather,” states Rontganger. “Most guys in my generation grew up in leather, spent their childhood in it—it’s a very robust material, easy to clean and perfect for rompers and kids! In southern Germany, the people also often wear the traditional costumes, with Lederhosen. You could say that leather clothing is almost a part of German culture; people just walk around in it.” The sexual side of leather culture, reveals Rontganger, “didn’t really take off till I was in my mid-20s. I bought a porno mag and there was a series of photos with a guy in leather. When I looked at those photos, they just drove me wild. I knew I needed to find the guys who looked and dressed like that, so that’s when I started going out on the leather scene in Berlin.” Rontganger, who holds the titles of Mr. Leather Berlin 2012 and German Mr. Leather 2013 and 2014, has also been nominated for an X Award in the category “Best Man in Europe.” “The awards aren’t until mid-February in Antwerp, Belgium. The competition’s very tough though and I’m up against some really big names in the European fetish community, so I’m not so sure about my chances,” he says.

NON-WHITE TITLEHOLDER When asked about racism within the

>> BERLIN <<

community Rontganger says that—in some ways—he has experienced what he calls “positive racism.” “Germany is still quite a mono-cultural society, as there aren’t really many people of color here. I’m often the only black guy, literally wherever I go, so I stand out, especially in the leather scene,” reveals Rontganger. “Because I’m different, people notice me and they want to talk to me or have sex with me, which is why I call it ‘positive.’ Many people here believe black men smell different and have horse cocks, and they want to find out if it’s true. The funny thing is that I’d say the Germans are more horse-cocked than anyone else—they just don’t know it because everyone else is the same as them! My skin color makes me exciting and interesting, even exotic and sexy, but if you look at it objectively, it’s still however a form of racism.” “When I became German Mr. Leather, however, there were a few people who were not at all impressed! They didn’t like it that I wasn’t born in Germany, nor that a black guy is representing them... The

Germans are very direct and say exactly what they think—smiling in Germany is considered to be a sign of weakness, so people tell the truth through gritted teeth—so it wasn’t easy at the beginning. But I’ve spent more than half my life here and in the meantime I feel more German than anything else, so I’m able to relate to them and they can also relate to me.” All in all—says Rontganger, “they see that I do my best to represent Germany on an international level, so I’ve managed to alter their opinions of me. In the meantime, I get a lot of positive feedback. I’m the only non-white titleholder in Europe, representing a very white German society, and now they’re actually quite proud of themselves for having chosen me. It sends a positive message about Germans internationally, who up until only very recently had to cope with being collectively deemed Nazis and racists by everyone. Strangers often come up to me and tell me how proud they are of me! It touches me every time...”

BE APPROACHABLE As one of the judges in the upcom-

ing Mr. LA Leather contest in March, Rontganger says that “the most important thing for any Mister is that he must be approachable. People in the community often have questions or problems; some are lonely and need now and again someone to talk to or some personal support in difficult situations, or advice on where to go or how to get leather. It can be tough, but I think they’ve got to be able to feel that they can contact to you, that you’ll make a little time for them, where appropriate. You also have to be a role model, not only wearing your leathers at the big events, but on the street, in the supermarket, when you’re running everyday errands. I think we must set an example: that none of us should be ashamed of who and what we are... Gay men and women have been adjusting to the heterosexual way of life for thousands of years, now it’s time for us to stop adjusting and to start simply fitting in, the way we are. That’s what I’ll be looking for in the candidates: courage, patience and authenticity.”

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>> GAY CONVICTIONS <<

Call To Overturn Gay Convictions Brits urge authorities to pardon thousands of gay men convicted under so-called “indecency” laws. BY O RLY LYO N N E

enedict Cumberbatch has joined the call for overturning “indecency” convictions handed down to gay men like war hero Alan Turing, whom he portrays in the film “Imitation Game,” reports The Huffington Post. Turing was a computer scientist and mathematician who helped crack the Nazi naval code known as “Enigma” during World War II, leading to the Allied victory. Turing was also gay, and in 1952 was prosecuted for his sexual orientation under the U.K.’s indecency laws. Instead of jail time,

BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH

ALAN TURING

Turing chose chemical castration. He died by suicide in 1954, and his “crime” was pardoned by Queen Elizabeth II in 2013.

Last month, after a screening of “The Imitation Game” at London’s Ham Yard Hotel, comedian Stephen Fry called for STEPHEN pardons for thousands FRY of other gay men convicted under the same laws. Cumberbatch expressed his support for the campaign in an email sent to The Hollywood Reporter. “Alan Turing was not only prosecuted, but quite arguably persuaded to end his own life early, by a society who called him a criminal for simply seeking out the love he deserved, as all human beings do,” he wrote. “Sixty years later, that same government claimed to ‘forgive’ him by pardoning him. I find this deplorable, because Turing’s actions did not warrant forgiveness—theirs did—and the 49,000 other prosecuted men deserve the same.” An open letter has been addressed to Her Majesty’s Government, imploring young political leaders including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Kate, to see that such convictions are wiped clean, according to the Telegraph.

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THELAW >> LGBT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE <<

Statistically, domestic violence occurs in same-sex relationships as much as it does in heterosexual relationships. Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of behavior from which one partner of an intimate relationship uses physical violence, coercion, threats, intimidation, isolation, or emotional, sexual, or economic abuse to control the other. In my years of practice as an attorney, there are four unique challenges in representing both victims and the accused of LGBT domestic violence: 1. Identifying the true victim (The myth of ‘mutual abuse’); 2. Victims who present themselves poorly; 3. Creating a bias-free Court; and 4. Identifying appropriate services.

FORGOTTEN VICTIMS Unique challenges in LGBT domestic violence. BY D AVID H A KIMFA R

”Attorneys have an obligation to their clients, to their profession, and to justice itself. They are obligated to use their expertise to guarantee that the system does not stray from the principle that lies at the heart of the law: justice for all who seek it.” — Final Report, President’s Task Force on Victims of Crime (1982).

omestic violence is a subject that the LGBT community must confront head on. To this day, many states deny civil legal remedies to LGBT victims that are readily available to heterosexual victims. Making it worse, many in the LGBT community find little support from friends and family due to the lack of awareness about same-sex domestic violence. 3 2 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

When examining cases of alleged mutual abuse, the failure to look deeper can lead to unexpected consequences such as dual arrests, crossprotection orders, loss of employment, and loss of public benefits. As a lawyer for my client looking to bust the myth of ‘mutual abuse,’ it is critical to investigate the context, intent, and effect of the abuse. As a result of social barriers to the LGBT community, many do not present well and/or can relate in our courtrooms. In many cases, little or no evidence of abuse beyond the victim’s and accused’s testimony is available. Cases come to my desk with either shoddy or no shoddy police report(s), dual arrests, little or no medical evidence, and no witnesses. There are also cases where a client is claiming long-term abuse, but have never sought help in the past. This most often occurs because many in the LGBT community try to conceal their sexual orientation or gender identity (due to perceptions of how they will be treated or to

previous help-seeking experiences). This also has a collateral consequence of seeming highly distrustful/hesitant to be forthcoming with information. Which leads is to the challenge of receiving a bias-free courtroom. It is true, the LGBT community does face additional hurdles in court, depending on how one may look at it. Court forms, procedures, etc. often require the parties involved in domestic violence to come out. This can be difficult where the victim cannot obtain competent representation (or any representation) and must navigate the system by themselves. Also, court personnel (e.g. clerks, bailiffs) may lack training and act on implicit bias to mistreat LGBT people. The final challenge also presents some of the solutions. Safety provisions (stayaway, no-contact, no abuse, no harassment, no stalking, etc.) should be specific and tailored to the particular relationship, taking into account the tactics used by LGBT abusers. An example includes prohibiting the abuser from outing the victim in any context: (e.g., “Respondent shall not disclose information about Petitioner’s sexual orientation or gender identity to others with the intent of harassing, isolating, embarrassing, or otherwise harming the Petitioner.”) The Court should also include appropriate provisions granting economic and housing relief, which is especially important for LGBT survivors who may not have protections available to heterosexual married survivors. A judge may also temporary custody provisions within protection orders in favor of the survivor, where the survivor has custody rights (biological or adoptive parent). n David Hakimfar is a trial attorney and senior partner of Hakimfar Law, PLC, and a member attorney of Pride Legal. He can be reached at 310-730-1250.

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FEB R UAR Y 2015 | T H E F I GH T 33

Fitting In Mr. LA Leather Bear 2014 Gabriel Green on brotherhood, love and being a mentor. BY PA U LO MU RILLO

abriel Green didn’t set out to compete and win the title of Mr. LA Leather Bear 2014, nor did he imagine he’d be first runner-up at the Mr. LA Leather contest shortly after, but that’s how it all went down for him this last year after he took a chance and tried something new. The leather community embraced him and he immediately found himself surrounded by a group of men who he now refers to as brothers. A sense of brotherhood is definitely something Green values, as his own personal family life was traumatic, to say the least. “I grew up in a single parent household, in Newport, Rhode Island,” reveals Green. “My mom raised me well, but she kicked out of the house when I was 18, after I came out to her. Unfortunately she couldn’t handle it. She said, ‘You’re not my son anymore. You have to leave my house.’ She still maintains that today, and we haven’t spoken in 20 years.” In an interview with THE FIGHT, Green talks about getting a new lease on life after a kidney transplant, the lessons he has learned about acceptance and why he sees himself as a chameleon. When did you move to Los Angeles? It was back in 2002. The job that got me out here was the Gay and Lesbian Center, which is now the Los Angeles LGBT Center. I started working with homeless youth. I taught kids about HIV prevention and being safe on the streets. It helped me realize that my being kicked out had a purpose. I was there to teach these kids that they deserve love and they deserve to be who they want to be and no one should ever take that away from them. How did you land in the LA Leather Bear Community? My friend Matthew Rollins was doing the Mr. Regiment competition and I went there to support him. I found it all very interesting. I had never seen a leather competition before and then Leo Iriarte’s husband, Esteban Iriarte, approached me to tell me he thought I would make a great candidate for Mr. LA Leather Bear.

“Being kicked out of my house at a very young age and getting a kidney transplant has really given me a new lease on life... you have to keep going and be strong and be yourself.”

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What made you decide to go for it? I found out that I had kidney disease in 2005. I was told that I would have to go on dialysis, which I did for six years and then by miracle, I got a kidney transplant in 2012. It was life changing. I know what it feels like to think life is over, so when I got my health back, I decided to experience as much in life as possible and to grow. I remembered my kidney transplant and how I wanted to try new things, so I decided to compete.

I’m smiling more than ever.

Tony, D.A.P. client

What was it like winning the Mr. LA Leather Bear 2014 contest? I was shocked. I thought my competitor was going to win, because he has more experience in this community. It was a surprise. Winning thrust me into the leather community, which I think is one of the most beautiful communities one can experience if you’re open to it. We’re often misunderstood as dark and mysterious, but you’ll find that there are a lot of people who are very loving, open and expressive about their sexuality. Did you go from identifying as a WeHo boy to identifying as a leatherman? All my life I’ve never known where I fit in. I kind of consider myself a chameleon. I have friends in the WeHo community, the leather community and pretty much everywhere. If you’re a cool person, I’m gonna hang with you. A lot of that stems from where I’m from, because culturally I’m black, but a lot of people didn’t see me as black enough or they thought I was too ethnic. They think I’m Puerto Rican or Dominican, but my breakdown is black-mixed with Cherokee, Mexican, Filipino and Irish, so there is a little Latino in there, but culturally, I identify as a black man. It came to a point where I decided I am me. If my version of blackness doesn’t suit you, sorry, but I’m gonna be myself. How do you define being a leather bear? If you want to go specifically with body type, you should probably have some body hair on you--unless you’re going for something like Alopecia Bear [laughter]. I think when it comes to the bear community, it doesn’t matter who you are or what you look like as long as you accept yourself and others and you are full of love. A love of food is good too. Don’t be ashamed to eat. What was it like passing the sash to Frank Cavallo, Mr. LA Leather Bear 2015? The year flew by. I felt sad and there was a sense of disbelief. Now I get to be in the mentor’s chair and even though my successor is older and he’s been in the leather community for 25 years, there’s a lot we can teach each other. I look forward to being a mentor. Would you say that you are hooked on leather now? I’m here to stay. The leather community has embraced me with love and given me so much joy. It is a community of freedom. I used my being a title holder as a platform to inspire others with the experiences I’ve had. Being kicked out of my house at a very young age and getting a kidney transplant has really given me a new lease on life, so my goal has been to say that even though life can be hard, sometimes you have to go through the rough stuff, so you can help others, but you have to keep going and be strong and be yourself. You will be okay, and with your experience, you can change the world.

D.A.P. treats and supports the whole person When D.A.P. opened its dental clinic, I didn’t know it was one-of-a-kind in the county. I’ve been living with HIV for a long time, so I was just happy to have people nearby who really understood my oral care needs. I’ve been a D.A.P. client since 1994, so I’d already had great experiences with my doctor, my case manager, and my home health team. But this dental clinic staff is remarkable—from the smiling receptionist to my gentle dentist and everyone else in between. Who knew you could actually LIKE going to the dentist?!

This and more...all under one roof Thanks to your generous support, Desert AIDS Project has been saving lives for more than 30 years. Please continue to help by donating at desertAIDSproject.org, joining one of our annual giving programs, or by saving the date for one of our upcoming fundraising events. Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards Gala February 7, 2015 Dinner at My Place | March 22 - April 2, 2015 Dining Out for Life | April 30, 2015

760.323.2118 desertAIDSproject.org

FEB R UAR Y 2015 | THE F I GH T 35

THIS PAGE IS SPONSORED BY

THESHARE >> BY PAULO MURILLO <<

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

With Valentine’s Day in mind, we asked a few local sober folks with different lengths of recovery time about the pluses and minuses of dating romantically in sobriety. NICK JAMES

LOVE YOURSELF “We usually get sober because our lives are fucked up, so dating in sobriety is not always the number one priority, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t happen. Of course there are challenges when you date sober, but I think there are challenges in dating no matter what. A lot of people in sobriety have insecurity issues and I think it’s important to get over your insecurities and love yourself first and foremost, so that you can love somebody else.” —Nick James, sober since September, 2014.

I’ve gotten in horrible relationships with the same kind of female, which I realize is a pattern that I have. After my last disastrous relationship I decided to put myself on a 6-month contract of no dating. Since I’ve done that, I have really worked on myself and taken a look at my character defects. I realized that even if I found the perfect girl, it wouldn’t work out because of what’s wrong with me. I’m taking these 6 months to become a better person and a person that I myself would like to attract.” —Alexandra Rose, sober since December, 2008.

BETTER PERSON “Dating in sobriety has actually been very challenging for me.

ARTURO ORTEGA JUSTIN JUAREZ

A CONNECTION

SINAKHONE KEODARA

I’M PRESENT

ALEXANDRA ROSE

ism—be it the fight for gay rights or marriage equality. On the plus side of sober dating, I’m present and get to feel all of my feelings.” —Sinakhone Keodara, sober since April, 2010.

“Dating sober is a mixed bag. On the minus side I’m not someone who likes to approach a guy, because I’m shy and I have a fear of rejection, but I can’t use drugs or alcohol to escape or numb out. Also, dating websites and apps are very triggering for me, so I avoid them... I try to plug into the gay community in other ways like through gay activ-

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“It’s been really interesting learning to love myself first as a single person versus getting from one dysfunctional relationship to another. Dating used to be kind of like an afterthought. I’d meet somebody and we’d try to hang out, but for the most part it was a sex and doing drugs thing... Dating sober, you can read a connection with somebody more clearly. Before, there was no connection at all. I’m a bit of a novice at this. The dates I have been in sobriety have been a little trial and error for me. I’ve connected with a couple of people really well.” —Justin Juarez, sober since January, 2014.

MORE REAL “I enjoy dating sober a lot more than dating under the influence. Before, I didn’t understand what it was like to date. I would meet a guy and we’d go straight to bed. There was also a lot of drama when drugs and alcohol were involved. Today dating has a more serious tone. The drama is still there, but the drama becomes less because we are people who are constantly working on ourselves. Dating in sobriety has a lot of advantages. It’s better when you allow yourself the chance to really get to know someone. It’s nice to really be emotionally connected to another person and to be able to pay attention to the details. It feels more real.” —Arturo Ortega, sober Since May, 2006.

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FEB R UAR Y 2015 | T H E F I GH T 37

>> BY ANN ROSTOW <<

AMERICAN BEAUTY

3 8 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

>> NEWS QUIZ <<

Photographer Eric Schwabel’s new photo exhibit with model Alex Minsky. Absurdity, insecurities, addiction and art.

B Y M A R K A RIEL

ormer marine Alex Minsky, who lost his leg in Afghanistan and became a successful underwear model after his recovery, is the muse for Eric Schwabel’s upcoming photo exhibit “Don’t Laugh: Schwabel vs. Minsky.”

“We’ve worked together on a number of shoots over the past few years, and it just felt like it was time to show them as a collection,” reveals popular LA based phoERIC SCHWABEL

tographer Eric Schwabel in an interview with THE FIGHT. The title of the exhibit, “Don’t Laugh,”— is a reference to the tattoo Minsky has over his crotch, explains Schwabel. “The absurdity of that tattoo was doublyrevealed when an irked former lover of his released some naughty pics of Alex on the net (nothing laughable there). Where the show is concerned, it references insecurities in general: from the absurdity of a career in photo-making, the insecurities that a man who lost his leg in a war and then struggled with addiction must have in putting himself out there as a model, and even some of the subject matter we create in the work. It’s also just a fun show. You have a gay photographer collaborating with a straight marine on art pieces... it’s an odd combination but what we’ve created with that is, I think, really beautiful.” Opening night is Friday, March 27 at 7pm at WNDO, 361 Vernon Ave., in Venice. The exhibit runs for 5 days through April 1. Alex Minsky will be at the opening. For more info visit SchwabelStudio.com.

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JANUAR Y 2015 | TH E F I GH T 39

Jimmy The Zine

Queer Art Calendar: preserving unique and city-specific cultural moments. BY ORLY LYONNE

IMMY, a Los Angeles based independently published queer zine, has produced their 2015 Queer Art Calendar, shot by filmmaker/photographer AJ Goodrich. The calendar features 26 beautifully theatrical portraits recreating Tarot cards. Half of the photo were shot in Los Angeles and the other half at a radical queer commune, revealed Co-Publisher Jimmy Vogel in a recent interview. According to the zine’s web site “JIMMY doesn’t hand out assignments, but rather invites established and unheard queer voices to contribute provocative images and thoughtful texts that they find meaningful. In a blog-cluttered world, JIMMY revives the form of the classic, printed fag mag to preserve and document a unique and cityspecific cultural moment!”

For more info on JIMMY, and/or to purchase the 2015 Queer Art Calendar, visit www.jimmythezine.com. 4 0 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

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contact ntoriodesign@yahoo.com www.ntoriodesign.com FEB R UAR Y 2015 | T H E F I GH T 41

THEEVENT >> PHOTOS AND TEXT BY PAULO MURILLO <<

15th Annual Cybersocket Web Awards

t was a who is who and who did who in gay porn when industry leaders, executives, porn stars, and celebrities gathered for the 15th Annual Cybersocket Web Awards at the Penthouse in West Hollywood last month. Recognizable faces included Michael Lucas of Lucas Entertainment, Ducati Models founder and porn star, Trenton Ducati, Nick Capra, Alessandro Del Toro, Landon Conrad, Jarec Wentworth, Pierre Fitch, Brandon Wilde, Alessio Romero and Mark Dalton to name only a few. For a complete list of the 2015 Cybersocket Web Awards Winners, visit: cybersocketwebawards.com

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>> PHOTOS AND TEXT BY PAULO MURILLO <<

Faultline Bar Celebrates 21 Years

aultline Bar at 4216 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, celebrated 21 years last month. Los Angeles Councilmember Mitch Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Farrell of the Los Angelesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 13th Council District presented Faultline with a city proclamation for their 21 years of serving the community. Under new ownership as of August, 2014, new owner Jorge Usatorres also presented previous owner Shawn Farnsworth with an Award of Appreciation for his inspiration and dedication to the Fautline Bar and the LGBT community. For more information on the bar, visit faultlinebar.com.

FEB R UAR Y 2015 | THE F I GH T 43

THECALENDAR >> THINGS TO DO << Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 888 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 12pm - 4pm. Visit ibs-ps.com. Relax and unwind to the sounds of Dj Chub Jim. Private Cabana’s available while they last. IBC MEET & GREET T-DANCE Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 888 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 5pm - 8pm. Visit ibc-ps.com. Poolside welcome party with complimentary buffet (while it lasts).

KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21. SATURDAY FEBRUARY 7

ELECTROLUXX ART DANCE PARTY Bootleg Theater, 2220 Beverly Blvd., 9:30pm. For tickets, visit: Electroluxx.com. Enjoy a mix of projection mapping, sculpture alteration, lasers, smoke, and mirrors, all blended together by a roster of musicians. REFLEX WINTER/SPRING 2015 Metropolitan Nightclub, 652 N LA Peer Dr., 2am - 7am. For tickets, visit www.flavorus.com/profile/Reflex%20 Presents/7471. In its 10th year, Reflex is the longest running Tribal Gay Dance Event in Southern California. FULL FRONTAL DISCO Akbar, 4356 W. Sunset BLVD. 10pm - 2am. Visit fullfrontaldisco.com. A celebration of disco decadence in its myriad mutations, classic and contemporary. ROUGH SEX - LEATHERMEN Eagle LA, 4219 Santa Monica Blvd, 9pm - 2am. Visit theroughsexcrew.tumblr.com. Join the celebration of the 3rd year anniversary. In homage to the upcoming leather contests, come fully suited or wearing more revealing gear! FUN TO BE DEAD: MARTIN O’BRIEN AND SHEREE ROSE ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives, 909 W. Adams Blvd., 7pm. For more information at one.usc.edu/funto-be-dead/. The multidisciplinary performance practice of London-based artist Martin O’Brien utilizes physical endurance, pain, disgust, and sexuality to challenge common representations of illness. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10

LE SÉXE Los Globos, 3040 W. Sunset Blvd., 8:30pm. For tickets, visit: eventbrite.com/e/le-sexe-tickets-14088179123. Passion, beauty, freedom, art, love for an experience you won’t forget. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12

IBC THURSDAY NIGHT STREET FAIR Palm Canyon Drive (between Amado and Baristo Roads), Palm Springs, 7pm-10pm. Visit ibc-ps.com for more information. Kick off International Bear Convergence with an old fashioned street fair, with musicians, food, arts and crafts vendors, and a farmers market. EARLY BEAR PARTY Hunters Nightclub, 302 East Arenas Rd., Palm Springs, 9pm - 2am. Visit hunterspalmsprings.com for more information. Drink and dance to the hottest dance and pop hits with DJ Chub Jim. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13

PLUNGE 1.0 POOL PARTY WITH DJ CALAHAN 4 4 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

CRUSIN WITH DJ SEAN MAC Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 888 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 10pm - 2am. Visit ibc-ps.com. The first IBC dance is a hot one. Take off the shirts, make new friends and dance the night away. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14

IBC RETRO SPLASH POOL PARTY WITH DJ CHUB JIM Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 888 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 10am - 4pm. Visit ibc-ps.com. Soak up the sun, drink and splash around with hot, furry men and dance to the sounds of the 80’s and 90s. Grilled-to-order food available all day. BEARHEAT PAJAMA PARTY Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 888 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 10pm - 3am. Visit ibc-ps.com. Submit to a primal, seductive night of hot men and the music at BearHeat. Amber and Ultra Nate will perform. SWEET LOVIN’ VALENTINE’S NIGHT The Belasco, 1050 S Hill St. Los Angeles, 10pm - 4pm, for tickets, visit sweetlovin.eventbrite.com. Get stung by love at a special Valentine’s Night event. “BUTCH” THE MALE THING! Bullet Bar, 10522 Burbank Blvd., NoHo, 9pm - 2am. For more visit facebook.com/events/313973702142047. Superstar DJs, frisky GoGo porn stars, vintage porn, smoke, lasers, cheap drinks, and smoking by a fire pit, just like the good old days. LOVE & LUST 2015 VALENTINES COSTUME BALL Fredricks of Hollywood, 1717 N McCadden, Los Angeles, 10pm. Visit, loveandlustball.com. LA’s largest Valentines Costume Ball returns for its 5th year. SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15

IBC REDEMPTION IN PARADISE POOL PARTY Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 888 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 10am - 4pm. Visit ibc.com. Soak up the sun with DJ Roke Cabrera, then drink and splash around with hot, furry men. SUNDAY 70S BEER BUST & FUNDRAISER Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 888 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 5pm - 8pm. Visit ibc-ps.com. Bring your best 70s costume for a chance to win great prizes. Big hair, necklaces and funky music will make this an afternoon to remember. THE LEATHER BALL Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel, 888 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, 10pm - 3am. Visit ibc-ps.com. Get out your chaps. It’s going to be a bumpy night. Dance to the hot, tribal sounds with a unforgettable light show. Some surprises in store. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21

KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN Outfest UCLA Legacy Project, Billy Wilder Theater, Hammer Museum, 10899 Wilshire Blvd, 7:30pm. Visit outfest.org. An instant classic, now celebrating its 30th year, director Hector Babenco’s remarkable film was a sophisticated and high-profile queer triumph in the midst of the conservative 1980s.

GROUPS

ASIAN/PACIFIC GAYS AND FRIENDS www.apgf.org GAY ASIAN PACIFIC SUPPORT NETWORK www.gapsn.org LOS ANGELES GAY AVIATION CLUB Pilots, Flights Attendants, Mechanics. www.unusualattitudes.info CLUB NUR Gay Middle Eastern. www.clubnur.com GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF LOS ANGELES www.gmcla.org GAY & LESBIAN SALSA Every Monday, 8 p.m. Little Temple Bar, 4519 Santa Monica Blvd., Silverlake, 90029. gaysalsanight@yahoo. com or www.facebook.com/gaysalsanight GAY TRAFFIC SCHOOL Third Tuesday and Wednesday of every month, 6-10 p.m. The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N. McCadden Place, Los Angeles 90038. 1-800-Gay-4-You or www.laglc.org HIV MEDICAL & CASE MANAGEMENT Valley Community Clinic in North Hollywood offers HIV Testing and Medical Services including counseling and medical treatment. For more info: www.valleycommunityclinic.org POP LUCK CLUB Second Sunday of every month, 11 a.m. Locations vary. Los Angeles based organization for Gay Dads, Prospective Dads, and their families. www.popluckclub.org PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month, at the Gay & Lesbian Center. RSVP to Dennis@malecare.org or call (323) 860-7340. GREAT AUTOS OF YESTERYEAR The largest LGBT classic car club on the West Coast. www.greatautos.org LOS ANGELES PRIME TIMERS Social group for older mature gay men and admirers. www.laprimetimers.org LOS ANGELES GAY BRIDGE CLUB www.communityvisions.org/IAGLBC LOS ANGELES GAY/LESBIAN SCIENTISTS www.lagls.org LOS ANGELES GAY FOR GOOD Gays making a commitment to volunteer for social welfare and environmental service projects. www.gayforgood.org LOS ANGELES GAY NATURISM California Men Enjoying Naturism. cmen.info BI-OSPHERE P.O.V. Every 2nd Wednesday, 8-9:30 p.m., The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7302. M-F between 6-9 p.m. Topic-driven discussion for women and men who identify as, or are exploring bisexuality. MEN’S SPEAKEASY Every Tuesday at 8 p.m. The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7302. Fun, alternative space for gay and bisexual men to meet and make new friends. LGBT BOOK CLUB First Wednesday of each month, 7:30-9:30 p.m. The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7302, M-F between 6-9 p.m. USC LAMBDA LGBT ALUMNI ASSOCIATION alumnigroups.usc.edu/lambda/ LOS ANGELES BLACK PRIDE www.myblackpridela.com GREATER PASADENA AID FUND www.greaterpasadenaaidfund.org

> EMAIL YOUR EVENT OR GROUP TO editor@thefightmag.com POSITIVE IMAGES WORKSHOP Every Monday, from 7-9 p.m. The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. If you’re looking for ways to deal with HIV, the Live Life Better Workshop can help you learn coping skills, build a support system, and work toward your health goals. An RSVP is required. For more information or to reserve your place, call (323) 860-7321. The e-mail contact is positiveimages@lagaycenter.org. TRANSGENDER PERCEPTIONS Every Friday, 8 p.m. The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7302. M-F between 6-9 p.m. Social networking group offers a safe and welcoming opportunity for people of any age and gender identity to learn from others and to share experiences. GET CENTERED Meditation Class. Every Saturday, 10-11 a.m., $10. Gay & Lesbian Center, 1625 N Schrader Blvd. Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7300. SENIORS SERVICES Ongoing, The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7359. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT Ongoing, L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, 1625 N Schrader Blvd., Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-5806. MPOWERMENT WEEKLY WORKSHOPS Tuesdays and fridays, 6 p.m. APLA, 3550 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 300, Los Angeles. More info: Donta Morrison, tel: (213) 201-1561. For young gay men of color—ages 18 thru 24—looking for a safe place to hang out. TRAVEL

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Mondays, 6:10-7:10 p.m. CRYSTAL METH ANONYMOUS Saturdays, 9:10-10:10 a.m. DEBTORS ANONYMOUS Tuesdays, 8-9 p.m. MARIJUANA ANONYMOUS Wednesdays, 8:15-9:45 p.m. Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS Wednesdays, 7-8 p.m. SEXUAL COMPULSIVES ANONYMOUS Mondays, 8-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 8-9 p.m. Wednesdays, 8-9 p.m. Thursdays, 8:15-9:15 p.m. Saturdays, 12:15-1:45 p.m. WOMEN’S NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS Saturdays, Noon-1 p.m. SPORTS

LOS ANGELES LESBIAN SOFTBALL www.lagaysoftball.com LOS ANGELES LESBIAN TACKLE FOOTBALL www.californiaquakefootball.com LOS ANGELES LESBIAN RUGBY www.eaglerockrugby.com WOMEN’S SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA GOLF www.womensgolf.org/wscga LOS ANGELES LESBIAN POKER www.lalpg.com LOS ANGELES WOMEN ON A ROLL Luncheons, Comedy Nights, and Conversation Groups. www.womenonaroll.com LOS ANGELES GAY RODEO CLUB www.gsgra.org

FRIENDS TRAVEL www.FriendsTravel.com Gay Owned & Operated, Since 1985.

LOS ANGELES GAY FLAG FOOTBALL www.laflagfootball.com There’s also lesbian tackle football.

12 STEP GROUPS

WEST HOLLYWOOD GAY RUGBY www.larebellion.org

All groups meet at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza, 1125 N McCadden Place, Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 860-7302 M-F between 6-9 p.m.

LOS ANGELES POOL LEAGUE Friendly Billiard teams. www.lapl8ball.com

GAY & LESBIAN BOWLING LEAGUE www.tavernguildleague.com

KOL AMI REFORM SYNAGOGUE kol-ami.org, 1200 North La Brea Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90038

SAGA LA Gay Ski & Snowboard Club. www.sagala.org

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF LOS ANGELES fccla.org 540, South Commonwealth Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90020

V.O.I.L.A. Volleyball. www.lagayvolleyball.com GREAT OUTDOORS The largest gay outdoor recreational organization in Southern California. www.greatoutdoorsla.org GAY AND LESBIAN SIERRANS Camping, Outdoors, Hiking Angeles. www.sierraclub.org CHEER LA Cheerleading. www.cheerla.org LA ROWING www.larowing.org DIFFERENT SPOKES Cycling www.differentspokes.com Rides start in various locations in the greater Los Angeles area. SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BLADES Ice Hockey. www.bladeshockey.com LOS ANGELES FRONTRUNNERS Running and walking club. www.lafrontrunners.com WEST HOLLYWOOD SOCCER CLUB Comfortable, supportive environment for learning and playing the world’s most popular game. www.gaysoccer.com LOS ANGELES GAY SCUBA CLUB www.barnaclebusters.org LOS ANGELES GAY ROCK CLIMBING www.lalgbtclimbing.com WEST HOLLYWOOD AQUATICS Swim and Water Polo Teams. www.wh2o.org WORSHIP

METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH mccla.org, 4953 Franklin Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027 BETH CHAYIM CHADASHIM SYNAGOGUE bcc-la.org, 6090 West Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035

HOLLYWOOD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH hollywoodumc.org, 6817 Franklin Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90028 HOLY SPIRIT holyspirit-la.org, 4201 West Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90029 UNITED UNIVERSITY CHURCH uniteduniversitychurch.org, 817 West 34th St., Los Angeles, CA 90089 DIGNITY CENTER dignitylosangeles.org, 126 South Avenue 64, Los Angeles, CA 90042 HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH-HLYWD hopelutheranchurch.net, 6720 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038 WEST HOLLYWOOD PRESBYTERIAN wehopres.org, 7350 W Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90046 MOUNT HOLLYWOOD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH mthollywood.org, 4607 Prospect Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027 IMMANUEL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH immanuelpres.org, 3300 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90010 ST. MATTHEW’S LUTHERAN CHURCH stmatthewsnoho.org, 11031 Camarillo St., North Hollywood, CA 91602 CHRIST CHAPEL OF THE VALLEY christchapel.com, 11050 Hartsook St., North Hollywood, CA 91601 ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH stpaulssm.org, 958 Lincoln Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90403 ST. MONICA CATHOLIC COMMUNITY stmonica.net, 725 California Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90403 WEHO CHURCH wehochurch.com, 916 N. Formosa Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90046 ST. VICTOR’S CATHOLIC CHURCH saintvictor.org, 8634 Holloway Dr. West Hollywood, CA 90069 ST. LUKE LUTHERAN stlukelutheran.com, 5312 Comercio Way, Woodland Hills, CA 91364

For Breaking Daily LGBT News Visit

www.thefightmag.com

FEB R UAR Y 2015 | THE F I GH T 45

THEFINALFIGHT >> GAYS IN RUSSIA <<

CAMPAIGN OF HATE

Film director, activist and writer Michael Lucas on the ongoing government sanctioned discrimination of gays in Russia. BY MICH A EL LU CA S

t has been a year since the release of my documentary, “Campaign of Hate: Russia and Gay Propaganda.” I can tell you that everywhere I am, I’m asked the same question: “What can I do to help LGBT people in Russia?” I hate to say it, but there is absolutely nothing you can do to help gay people living in Russia. In fact, whenever the West tries to help the situation by putting pressure on Putin, and by organizing protests in front of Russian Embassies around the world, it only seems to backfire. The Kremlin uses these protests as propaganda material to support their anti-gay worldview. They show drag queens or people in leather as symbols of decadence and as a way to dehumanize gay people. They show protesters holding a poster of their beloved leader, President Vladimir Putin, wearing makeup.

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The message the government sends to the people: these homosexuals, spurred on by foreign agitators, not only disrespect the Russian norms of morality—they’re also acting as agents of the Russia-hating West as part of a conspiracy to tear apart Russian families—the fabric of their society. Since I think nothing can be done to change Russian attitudes towards gay people, another question I often get asked is: “why did you decide to make this film?” My answer is simple: you don’t always have to do something. Sometimes it’s just knowledge and awareness and that is enough. Maybe after learning how horrible the anti-gay laws are in Russia and other countries, especially the Middle East (with the exception

of Israel), viewers will appreciate what we have here in U.S. The most important thing that America’s constitution gives its citizens is the ability to fight for our rights. We can assemble together, without fear. We can challenge government policy, without fear. And we can voice arguments that challenge the views of the majority—again without fear. As a recently naturalized American citizen who came from Russia, I don’t take these rights for granted. And, perhaps, there is one thing we can do. Support the gays and lesbians who are seeking asylum in the United States. They need help in starting a new, and far-better life for themselves here, as they grasp at the first rungs of the ladder of freedom. n

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