THE FIGHT SOCAL'S LGBTQ MONTHLY MAGAZINE APRIL 2017 by The Fight Magazine

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THECONTENTS ON THE COVER

DJ DAN SLATER COVER PHOTO BY SCOTT EHLER TOC PHOTO AND FEATURE PHOTO BY FERNANDO BARRAZA

FEATURES 19 THE GOOD FIGHT

DINING OUT FOR LIFE

21 A PLACE CALLED HOME

THE CENTERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ANITA MAY ROSENSTEIN CAMPUS

24 HUMAN RIGHTS

TRANSGENDER EQUALITY TASK FORCE

26 THE MAKING OF A COMMUNITY

REINVENTING CULTURE ACROSS THE WORLD

28 SPIN CONTROL

WHITE PARTY DJ DAN SLATER

30 BETTER SEX

WITH JOSHUA R GONZALEZ, MD

32 EASTER IN THE DESERT

INNDULGE KICKS OFF SPRING

36 WIN FROM WITHIN MY-KING JOHNSON

38 RIP WALT CESSNA

THE ARTIST & HIS PHOTOGRAPHY

40 HERE. THERE. EVERYWHERE. QUEER LATINX ART

DEPARTMENTS 11 THE TALK EWAN MCGREGOR 16 THE ROSTOW REPORT DISCRIMINATION CASES 18 THE STATE EQUALITY CALIFORNIA 20 THE CITY PRAY AWAY THE GAY 22 THE DESERT BELINDA CARLISLE 34 THE SHARE LOCAL RECOVERY 42 THE HISTORY JAMES BALDWIN 44 THE EVENT BROKEBEAR MOUNTAIN 46 THE EPIDEMIC LURKING HIV 48 THE CALENDAR THINGS TO DO 50 THE FINAL FIGHT LAST WORD 4 T H E F I GH T | www.thefightmag.com

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THEEDITOR

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stanford Altamirano MANAGING EDITOR Mark Ariel ART DIRECTOR Nadeen Torio MARKETING CONSULTANTS Tom Pardoe Sean Galuszka Roxie Perkins Jacci Ybarra SOCIAL MEDIA Brenden Shucart Sinan Shihabi WEBMASTER Nadeen Torio >> IN THIS ISSUE <<

Congressman Joe Kennedy III took over as Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus’s bipartisan Transgender Equality Task Force (TETF) last month. The Task Force officially relaunched with a focus on restoring critical education protections, ensuring parity in health care access, and addressing the surge of violence against transgender Americans, particularly trans women of color, reports Orly Lyonne (“Human Rights,” page 24). “From education to health care to public safety: transgender Americans are told near daily that their rights count as less,” said Kennedy. “In a country built on the promise of equal protection, this is unacceptable. Facing new threats from a new Administration and discriminatory policies rearing their heads across the country, this Task Force is united in its unwavering support for the transgender community, grateful for the partnership of our allies and friends, and energized for the fight ahead.” A member of the Kennedy family, Kennedy is the grandson of former U.S. Attorney General Robert F. “Bobby”

Kennedy and a grandnephew of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy. Also in this issue—Aaron Stella writes about gay culture and identity (“The Making Of A Community,” page 26). “People treat friendship and community in the same way they treat their [romantic] relationships. They think they’re just going to fall into it, but it takes sustained intentions and effort…it doesn’t happen overnight,” Columbine Demers tells Stella. “We have our work cut out for ourselves,” states Stella. “Gay safe spaces are declining largely because of mass gentrification in major urban center. With fewer safe spaces, we have fewer places to interact without fear of discrimination.” “Apps aren’t killing gay spaces”, says Brenden Shucart, writer and advocate for people living with HIV. “People are using apps to make up for the absence of gay spaces in their lives.” “What does that mean? We need to create new gay spaces where new community, new relationships and new identity can thrive.”

STANFORD ALTAMIRANO Editor-In-Chief

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Sinan Shihabi 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 © 2017 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 For Display Advertising, please call (323) 297-4001

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THECONTRIBUTORS >> WRITERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS <<

PAULO MURILLO Paulo Murillo has been writing for LGBT media for over 18 years. He got his start writing a bi-weekly column called “Luv Ya, Mean It” for FAB! Newspaper. Read his blog at thehissfit.com, friend him on Facebook, and find him on Instagram and Tweeter as @paulo_murillo. 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. JOSEPH ARELLANO A stage and film actor from Bedford, Indiana, Joe has been involved in community events such as The Friendly House Luncheon, PATH, and LA PRIDE. Joe has appeared in Titus Andronicus, Dark Side

James Franco and Travis Mathews’ “Interior. Leather Bar.,” and Mathews’ 2010 short film “I Want Your Love.”

Murillo

Rostow

Shucart

Green

Stella

of the Moon, and Take Me Out. He also co-starred in the music video Hopeful Romantic, Hallmarks’ Holly’s Holiday, and other various short films. BRENDEN SHUCART Brenden Shucart is an HIV AIDS-LGBT rights advocate, actor, and writer whose work

Arellano

has been featured in Out There,The Advocate and HIV Plus magazine among others. His essays around HIV-related health issues and stigma have been described as “humanizing and heartbreaking” and “beautiful, honest, and important.” As an actor Shucart has appeared in the short film “Bug Chaser,”

ROBERT GREEN Robert is a photo journalist and current member of the California B&B Corps uniform club, founding member of the Southern California Bondage Club and official event photographer for the Los Angeles Leather Coalition (LALC). Branded as Motorboot Photography his photos document and follow the breadth of the leather and fetish community in the LA area. AARON STELLA Aaron Stella is a queer-witch living in San Francisco. He thrives off the love of his friends and his community. They are what give him his light. Aaron tries every day to make everyone feel as fantastic as he does.

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

TURNING POINT

GAY CHARACTER “It’s just like, he’s a gay character. It’s 2017, for fuck’s sake!”

—Actor Ewan McGregor on the gay character in the remake of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

EWAN MCGREGOR

ANTHONY BOWENS (LEFT), WITH MICHAEL PAVANO.

—Professional wrestler Anthony Bowens coming out as bi in an article for Outsports.

ON THE DANCE FLOOR

THAT GREYNESS

“The whole issue of sexuality is so grey. I’m just trying to acknowledge that fluidity, that greyness, which has always existed.”

KRISTEN STEWART

—Actress Kristen Stewart on bisexuality in a recent interview with The Guardian.

LOVE HARD

“No matter who you love… don’t be afraid to love hard.” COLTON HAYNES

“Meeting Mike was a turning point in me being comfortable with myself in all settings… It was my first relationship and it was with a guy.”

“I met him on the dance floor at Limelight in 1994 on his birthday, so we got married on his birthday, the anniversary of when we met, this year.”

—Drag Race host and legendary entertainer and performer RuPaul officially announcing last month that he’s married to his longtime partner Georges LeBar, on Hollywood Today Live.

—Actor Colton Haynes after announcing on instagram last month that he is officially engaged to marry his boyfriend and celebrity florist Jeff Leatham.

CHANGING LANDSCAPE

“As much great work as we’ve done, we face some real challenges ahead… there’s a changing landscape out there, folks, and we have a hell of a lot of work to do.”

DOLLAR GAME

“If we want to continue to see our lives portrayed onscreen… it’s a good idea to tune in, particularly on network television… Because at the end of the day, it’s a dollar game.”

DUSTIN LANCE BLACK

—Milk screenwriter and creator of the ABC miniseries chronicling the history of the LGBT rights When We Rise Dustin Lance Black in an interview with The Advocate.

RUPAUL

JOE BIDEN

—Former Vice President Joe Biden on the Trump administration’s unraveling of trans protections. in a speech while accepting the Help Hero Humanitarian Award from Help USA, last month.

SEP TEMB AP R IER L 2017 2016| |TH TH EEF F I GH I GH T T 11 11

What is TRUVADA for PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis)?

u You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or serious liver

TRUVADA is a prescription medicine that can be used for PrEP to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection when used together with safer sex practices. This use is only for adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This includes HIV-negative men who have sex with men and who are at high risk of getting infected with HIV-1 through sex, and male-female sex partners when one partner has HIV-1 infection and the other does not. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to prevent getting HIV-1. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

Who should not take TRUVADA for PrEP?

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about TRUVADA for PrEP? Before taking TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce your risk of getting HIV-1 infection: u You must be HIV-negative. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1 infection. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are conﬁrmed to be HIV-negative. u Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. If you have flu-like symptoms, you could have recently become infected with HIV-1. Tell your healthcare provider if you had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting TRUVADA for PrEP or at any time while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. While taking TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce your risk of getting HIV-1 infection: u You must continue using safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1. u You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP. u To further help reduce your risk of getting HIV-1: • Know your HIV-1 status and the HIV-1 status of your partners. • Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months or when your healthcare provider tells you. • Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV-1 to infect you. • Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior. • Have fewer sex partners. • Do not miss any doses of TRUVADA. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection. • If you think you were exposed to HIV-1, tell your healthcare provider right away. u If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. TRUVADA can cause serious side effects: u Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical emergency. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, nausea, vomiting, stomach-area pain, cold or blue hands and feet, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or fast or abnormal heartbeats. uSerious liver problems. Your liver may become large and tender, and you may develop fat in your liver. Symptoms of liver problems include your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, and/or stomach-area pain.

problems if you are female, very overweight (obese), or have been taking TRUVADA for a long time. In some cases, these serious conditions have led to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any symptoms of these conditions. u Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you also have HBV and take TRUVADA, your hepatitis may become worse if you stop taking TRUVADA. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without ﬁrst talking to your healthcare provider. If your healthcare provider tells you to stop taking TRUVADA, they will need to watch you closely for several months to monitor your health. TRUVADA is not approved for the treatment of HBV. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP if you already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status. If you are HIV-1 positive, you need to take other medicines with TRUVADA to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP if you also take lamivudine (Epivir-HBV) or adefovir (HEPSERA).

What are the other possible side effects of TRUVADA for PrEP?

Serious side effects of TRUVADA may also include: u Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your kidneys before and during treatment with TRUVADA for PrEP. If you develop kidney problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking TRUVADA for PrEP. u Bone problems, including bone pain or bones getting soft or thin, may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones. u Changes in body fat, which can happen in people taking TRUVADA or medicines like TRUVADA. Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP are stomacharea (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking TRUVADA for PrEP?

u All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you

have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis virus infection. u If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TRUVADA can harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking TRUVADA for PrEP, talk to your healthcare provider to decide if you should keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Pregnancy Registry: A pregnancy registry collects information about your health and the health of your baby. There is a pregnancy registry for women who take medicines to prevent HIV-1 during pregnancy. For more information about the registry and how it works, talk to your healthcare provider. u If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. The medicines in TRUVADA can pass to your baby in breast milk. If you become HIV-1 positive, HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. u All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. TRUVADA may interact with other medicines. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. u If you take certain other medicines with TRUVADA for PrEP, your healthcare provider may need to check you more often or change your dose. These medicines include ledipasvir with sofosbuvir (HARVONI). You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Important Facts about TRUVADA for PrEP including important warnings on the following page.

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Have you heard about

TRUVADA for PrEP™? The once-daily prescription medicine that can help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 when used with safer sex practices. • TRUVADA for PrEP is only for adults who are at high risk of getting HIV through sex. • You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Ask your doctor about your risk of getting HIV-1 infection and if TRUVADA for PrEP may be right for you.

visit start.truvada.com AP R I L 2017 | TH E F I GH T 13

IMPORTANT FACTS This is only a brief summary of important information about taking TRUVADA for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. This does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your medicine.

(tru-VAH-dah)

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF TRUVADA FOR PrEP

Before starting TRUVADA for PrEP to help reduce your risk of getting HIV-1 infection: • You must be HIV-1 negative. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1 infection. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are conﬁrmed to be HIV-1 negative. • Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include flu-like symptoms, tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting TRUVADA for PrEP. While taking TRUVADA for PrEP to help reduce your risk of getting HIV-1 infection: • You must continue using safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1. • You must stay HIV-1 negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP. • Tell your healthcare provider if you have a flu-like illness while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. • If you think you were exposed to HIV-1, tell your healthcare provider right away. • If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. • See the “How to Further Reduce Your Risk” section for more information. TRUVADA may cause serious side effects, including: • Buildup of lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, nausea, vomiting, stomach-area pain, cold or blue hands and feet, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, and/or fast or abnormal heartbeats. • Severe liver problems, which in some cases can lead to death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms: your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, and/or stomach-area pain. • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you have HBV and take TRUVADA, your hepatitis may become worse if you stop taking TRUVADA. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without ﬁrst talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months. You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female, very overweight, or have been taking TRUVADA for a long time.

TRUVADA can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “Most Important Information About TRUVADA for PrEP" section. • New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure. • Bone problems. • Changes in body fat. Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP include stomacharea (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. These are not all the possible side effects of TRUVADA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with TRUVADA for PrEP.

• Take 1 tablet once a day, every day, not just when you think you have been exposed to HIV-1. • Do not miss any doses. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection. • You must practice safer sex by using condoms and you must stay HIV-1 negative.

ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP (PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS)

HOW TO FURTHER REDUCE YOUR RISK

TRUVADA is a prescription medicine used with safer sex practices for PrEP to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection in adults at high risk: • HIV-1 negative men who have sex with men and who are at high risk of getting infected with HIV-1 through sex. • Male-female sex partners when one partner has HIV-1 infection and the other does not. To help determine your risk, talk openly with your doctor about your sexual health. Do NOT take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: • Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status. • Take lamivudine (Epivir-HBV) or adefovir (HEPSERA).

• Know your HIV-1 status and the HIV-1 status of your partners. • Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months or when your healthcare provider tells you. • Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV-1 to infect you. • Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior. • Have fewer sex partners. • Do not share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.

TRUVADA, the TRUVADA Logo, TRUVADA FOR PREP, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, and HEPSERA are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. Version date: April 2016 © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. TVDC0083 03/17

1 4 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

BEFORE TAKING TRUVADA FOR PrEP Tell your healthcare provider if you: • Have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis infection. • Have any other medical conditions. • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. • Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you become HIV-1 positive because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take: • Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist. • Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with TRUVADA for PrEP.

HOW TO TAKE TRUVADA FOR PrEP

GET MORE INFORMATION • This is only a brief summary of important information about TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more, including how to prevent HIV-1 infection. • Go to start.truvada.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 • If you need help paying for your medicine, visit start.truvada.com for program information.

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THEROSTOWREPORT >> JAMEKA EVANS <<

know there a number of bad bills floating around the state legislatures like pond scum in the swimming pool, but why moan about them until we have to? To continue this analogy, we have a handsome pool boy walking slowly up and down the side, his net dragging the scum out of the cool clear water. Every now and then, he dumps the residue in the grass and returns to his skimming. Some of us in the LGBT press recline comfortably on our chaises lounges, piña coladas at the ready. Others race around behind him pointing out patches of scum and screaming. And a few wise ones lean against a palm tree, quietly observing from behind their designer sunglasses. I’m in the first group, but I glance at the third group every now and then for clues. You see, most of the antigay bills don’t pass. Last year, out of approximately ten zillion proposals, two major antigay motions made it into law; North Carolina’s HB2 and Mississippi’s religious freedom law, which was put on hold by a federal court, and is now pending review before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. So it’s tempting to ignore most of these proposals, but at the same time, one would look pretty stupid poohpoohing a bathroom bill or an anti-marriage bill, taking a sip from one’s coconut, and then turning around to see the damn thing get signed into law. Plus, there are a number of lower level bills that get signed under the radar. South Dakota, for example, just enacted a law that protects publicly supported adoption agencies from retaliation by the state for discriminating against LGBT families for religious reasons. That’s the first, but probably not the last anti-LGBT law we’ll see this year, and I call it lower level only because it’s not the kind of across-the-

PLAINTIFF JAMEKA EVANS

WORD GAMES

You can sue if you’re fired or harassed for being butch, but not for being a lesbian. You can sue if you’re fired or harassed for lisping or singing show tunes in the office, but not for being a gay man. BY ANN ROSTOW

board smack that would generate national headlines. But it still offends and worries us. Meanwhile, check out the state of Utah, where the governor just signed a bill repealing an old policy that outlawed positive discussion of homosexuality in schools. The friendly action by the

1 6 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

lawmakers and chief executive came in the context of a lawsuit filed by the National Center for Lesbian Rights on behalf of students, but still. It makes us happy. Waiter! Another round. SCOTUS SHOWDOWN? In less happy news, we just

lost another Title VII workplace discrimination case at the federal appellate level. A divided three-judge panel from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit ruled that a harassed lesbian hospital guard, Jameka Evans, had no case for sexual orientation discrimination, adding that she might well have a claim for gender stereotyping, which many courts believe violates Title VII as an illegal form of sex discrimination. In other words, you can sue if you’re fired or harassed for being butch, but not for being a lesbian. You can sue if you’re fired or harassed for lisping or singing show tunes in the office, but not for being a gay man. If you think this doesn’t make sense, you’re not alone. Title VII is part of the Civil Rights Act passed in 1964, and Title IX, which applies to public schools, was passed in 1972. For over half a century, courts have been deciding what qualifies as “sex discrimination” under these two statutes, and they’ve expanded the crime to include (among other things) sexual harassment, same-sex harassment, the creation of a hostile workplace and the enforcement of gender stereotypes. What they haven’t done is expand the definition of sex discrimination to embrace discrimination against gay men and women, even though one would think we all defy sexual stereotypes by our very definition. This latest case will be appealed to the full bench of the 11th Circuit. But there’s already a Title VII case pending that could have a huge impact on gay jurisprudence. That case has been argued before the full Seventh Circuit, and a ruling could come as early as this spring. Other Title VII lawsuits are in the lower federal courts, so one way or another, our top court will be examining the “gay exception” to federal law sooner rather than later. n

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AP R I L 2017 | TH E F I GH T 17

THESTATE >> NEIL GORSUCH <<

OPPOSING GORSUCH Equality California sends letter urging senators to oppose Gorsuch nomination. BY VI CTOR MELAMED

s confirmation hearings for U.S. Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch get underway, Equality California has sent a letter to members of the United States Senate urging them to oppose his confirmation. In the letter, Equality California refutes Trump Administration claims that Gorsuch is a moderate in tune with mainstream American views. In fact, Gorsuch’s legal opinions are rooted in originalism, the belief that the Constitution should be interpreted in a manner consistent with those who drafted and ratified it nearly two and a half centuries ago. He is far to the right of the majority of Americans who believes in women’s reproductive freedom, marriage for same-sex couples and the separation of church and state. He sided with employers in two federal cases supporting an employer’s right to refuse to pay for contraception as part of employee health coverage if doing so violates the employer’s religious beliefs. This viewpoint regarding religious liberties has serious implications for LGBT people. The letter states in part: “Religious exemptions to civil rights laws would effectively gut LGBT legal protections because any person who has a desire to discriminate can merely raise religious beliefs as an excuse and a justification. Judge Gorsuch’s views in this area are a direct and significant threat to LGBT equality and LGBT civil rights protections.” The letter to all 100 members of the United States Senate was signed by Equality California Executive Director Rick Zbur and National Policy Director Valerie Ploumpis. n For more info visit www.eqca.org.

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>> DINING OUT FOR LIFE <<

THE GOOD FIGHT Dining Out For Life Returns to Los Angeles on Thursday, April 27. BY O RLY LYN N E

PLA Health is excited to announce the return of Dining Out For Life to Los Angeles on Thursday, April 27. The fundraiser features a diverse roster of restaurants throughout the city, which will donate a portion of their day’s receipts to APLA Health and Project Angel Food. Proceeds will help both organizations provide critically needed services for those living with HIV/AIDS in Los Angeles. Dining Out For Life invites patrons to give back to their comunity simply by

enjoying a meal at one of their favorite restaurants. The event is an automatic optin fundraiser—meaning whether guests know it or not, they will be contributing to APLA Health and Project Angel Food’s programs for those living with HIV/AIDS in L.A. and ensure everyone has access to quality health care and support services. “We are proud to bring Dining Out For Life back to Los Angeles,” APLA Health Chief Executive Officer Craig E. Thompson says. “Sitting down with friends and family

for a meal is something everyone enjoys, and on April 27th people can take a simple act like dining out and make it something that has an extraordinary impact on the HIV/ AIDS epidemic in our community.” Among the participating restaurants taking part in Dining Out For Life Los Angeles this year are: Crossroads Kitchen, The Abbey Food + Bar, Taste on Melrose, Taste at the Palisades, Tortilla Republic, Hedley’s, Mauro’s Café at Fred Segal, The Larchmont, and Spring. For an up-to-date list, and to learn more about Dining Out For Life, please visit diningoutforlife.com/losangeles.

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AP R I L 2017 | TH E F I GH T 19

THECITY NEON TREES >> BY PAULO MURILLO <<

MAN ARRESTED FOR VANDALIZING CENTER

Damario Brown, 23, from Leimert Park in South Los Angeles, was sentenced to 36 months probation and nine days in jail after pleading guilty to the hate speech graffiti he spray painted at one of the L.A. LGBT Centers facilities early February.On February 9, Brown wrote “Fuck Trannies” and other slurs on a wall at the center’s Village at Ed Gould Plaza in Hollywood.He was arrested a month later on March 9, after police identified him via surveillance footage. He was ordered to stay away from The Center, and he was also given 45 days of graffiti removal labor for his crime.

LONG BEACH MAN STOMPS ON PRIDE FLAG

Long Beach Rep. Alan Lowenthal has had a rainbow LGBT flag hanging outside of his DC office since 2013, as a symbol of his solidarity with REP. ALAN the LGBT community. Last month a LOWENTHAL man ripped the flag off its holder, threw it on the floor, and stomped on it several times, proclaiming the flag was “disgusting, immoral, and goes against everything that is right” before he left the building. The flag was not damaged and it was returned to its original place. Lowenthal is currently supporting the passage of a bill that would prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity in housing, employment, education and other areas of life.

PRIDE PARADE REPLACED WITH RESIST MARCH

L-R: VALENTINA, JASON KING, TRINITY TAYLOR

MAN ASSAULTS DRAG PERFORMER AND FRIEND

A man assaulted RuPaul’s Drag contestant Valentina and West Hollywood photographer Jason King, while they were walking to their car after leaving a bar in Weho’s Boystown last month. WEHOville reports that King was walking with Valentina and Trinity Taylor, another RuPaul’s Drag Race contestant, when the assailant punched Valentina and then punched King on the nose after he tried to intervene. The alleged assailant was arrested and charged with aggravated battery. His name was not released.

SAN DIEGO PRAY THE GAY AWAY PROTEST San Diego activists are planning to protest anti-LGBT religious group Restored Hope Network (RHN) during their yearly conference that is scheduled to take place at The City View Church in San Diego only four miles northeast of Hillcrest, on June 16 and 17. RHN is a faith-based organization that claims to be accepting of individual who feel they can rid themselves of homosexual thoughts and urges through faith doctrines. Critics say their “pray the gay away” tactics are in line with gay conversion therapy. 2 0 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

The LA Pride parade is going back to its roots this year by becoming a resist protest march to make a statement about human rights and resist the political forces that want to roll back LGBTQ+ rights. The march hopes to attract around 500,000 people. It will start on Hollywood Boulevard, where the first Los Angeles Pride Parade took place in 1970 and it will end at the LA Pride festival at what’s left of West Hollywood Park. For more information, visit lapride.org.

TRANS CHORUS OF LOS ANGELES

The Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center has announced it will be welcoming the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles (TCLA) to its Renberg Theatre for the first time. The musical ambassadors will perform two nights only, Friday, April 7 and Saturday, April 8, at 8pm. TCLA will perform planet Earth’s first staged concert production of the full The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars by David Bowie. For more info visit transchorusla.org.

>> ANITA MAY ROSENSTEIN CAMPUS <<

A PLACE CALLED HOME

Construction begins on LA LGBT Center’s multi-generational Anita May Rosenstein Campus. PHOTO BY PAULO MURILLO

BY PA U LO MU RILLO

he Los Angeles LGBT Center hosted a groundbreaking ceremony last month to start construction of The Center’s Anita May Rosenstein Campus—a comprehensive multi-generational services and affordable housing project.

The ceremony was attended by LA Center officials, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Councilmember David Ryu, as well as lead donor Anita May Rosenstein who was joined by members of her family. Rainbow-colored shovels were used for

the actual groundbreaking. Rosenstein was presented with a golden shovel that will be framed and displayed at the campus. The Anita May Rosenstein Campus will be a first-of-its-kind complex in Hollywood. It will offer 135 units of affordable housing for seniors and youth, 100 beds for homeless youth, new youth and senior centers, and much more. It will be located at 1116 N. McCadden Place, next to where Circus Disco once stood and directly across the street from the Center’s The Village at Ed Gould Plaza. The campus is scheduled to be completed in early 2019 as the Center marks its 50th anniversary. For more information on the LA LGBT Center, visit lalgbtcenter.org.

AP R I L 2017 | TH E F I GH T 21

THEDESERT >> BELINDA CARLISLE <<

HEAVEN IS A PLACE ON EARTH

Belinda Carlisle to perform at Jeffrey Sanker’s White Party Palm Springs: the world’s hottest gay weekend of non-stop dance parties. BY PA U LO MU RILLO

effrey Sanker’s White Party Palm Springs heats up the desert valley May 5-8, 2017 bringing revelers innovative new parties, and extraordinary experiences, including totally redesigned Day Club Pool Parties at the Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel. Join tens of thousands of the hottest men from all over the world as they once again take over the entire city for the world’s premier gay dance festival—with three days of unforgettable parties and with their new title sponsors: Almar Resort and Mantamar Beach Club (Puerto Vallarta). The weekend will be reigned over by their 2017 Queen of White Party: the ever-glamorous Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Kyle Richards! Friday night, Sanker teams up with Eliad Cohen and his high-octane PAPA Party for PAPA Dark: “A decadent, bacchanal exploration of music, leather, and fantasy”, says Producer and White Party founder Sanker. Saturday, dive headfirst into the fun at ADDICTED to BOYS: a “Day Club” pool 2 2 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

party with sponsor ADDICTED / ES Swimwear heating things up and featuring DJ Bret Law (in his White Party Debut), and DJ/ Producer Duo: Grind & Toy Armada. Stand at full attention on Saturday night at the weekend’s most anticipated event as Jeffrey Sanker drafts his guests into service in their dress whites at the White Party Convention Center. This 8-hour military themed party has jaw-dropping state of the art staging, music, lighting, and effects that will have you eager to go into battle. Headlining White Party’s main event are DJs Suri, Dan Slater, and DJ Aron. A surprise performer joins them, so you won’t want to go AWOL BELINDA for this! CARLISLE On Sunday, it’s time to converge under the desert sky for an afternoon of fun and excitement under the big top. Feel the love and join the celebration at SUNSET T-DANCE. Warm breezes and hot bodies fill the outdoor dance floor at White Party Park with music by DJs Abel Aguilera and Ralphi Rosario. Soar to new heights on the worldfamous White Party Ferris Wheel, and as the sun sets against the mountains, “Heaven is a Place on Earth” with Grammy Nominated Belinda Carlisle performing some of her greatest hits along with other artists at dusk. The excitement climaxes with the desert’s largest choreographed fireworks display, set to an exclusive remix. And it doesn’t end there! The weekend culminates in a high energy closing party with WE Party, for the first time at White Party direct from Madrid, mixed by superstar DJs Binomio and Danny Verde! Expect over-the-top costumes and spectacular performances! n For more info and tickets go to: www.jeffreysanker.com.

AP R I L 2017 | TH E F I GH T 23

>> JOE KENNEDY <<

Departments of Education and Justice that instructed schools to allow transgender students to use the restroom of the gender with which they identify. Specifically, the TETF will stand with Gavin Grimm in his Supreme Court case to guarantee transgender rights. Second, in light of the ongoing debate over the future of health care reform, the TETF will advocate for parity in access to essential care and treatment for all transgender Americans. Finally, the TETF will work tirelessly to respond to the surge of violence targeting the transgender community—particularly transgender women of color. Seven lives have been lost so far this year alone.

HUMAN RIGHTS

Joe Kennedy, grandson of former U.S. Attorney General Robert F. “Bobby” Kennedy, to chair house transgender equality task force. BY O RLY LYO N N E

ongressman Joe Kennedy III took over as Chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus’s bipartisan Transgender Equality Task Force (TETF ) last month. The Task Force officially relaunched with a focus on restoring critical education protections, ensuring parity in health care access, and addressing the surge of violence against transgender Americans, particularly trans women of color. “From education to health care to public safety: transgender Americans are told near daily that their rights count as less,” said Kennedy. “In a country built on the promise of equal protection, this is unacceptable. Facing new threats from a new Administration and discriminatory policies rearing their heads across the country, this Task Force is united in its unwavering support for the transgender community, grateful for the partnership of our allies and friends, and energized for the fight ahead.” In the 115th Congress, the TETF will focus on a wide range of priorities impacting the transgender community. First, fighting to restore the Obama-era guidance from the

2 4 TTHHEE FFIIGH www.thefightmag.com 24 GH TT || www.thefightmag.com

“FROM EDUCATION TO HEALTH CARE TO PUBLIC SAFETY: TRANSGENDER AMERICANS ARE TOLD NEAR DAILY THAT THEIR RIGHTS COUNT AS LESS. IN A COUNTRY BUILT ON THE PROMISE OF EQUAL PROTECTION, THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE.” Congressman Kennedy has been an outspoken advocate of transgender rights and LGBTQ equality since he was elected to office. He was a vocal supporter of Massachusetts’ transgender non-discrimination bill, appearing in-person at the State House to testify in support of its passage. Last year he introduced the Do No Harm Act, which would amend the Religious Freedom Restoration Act to preserve civil rights. He has been a proud co-sponsor of major equality legislation, from the Equality Act to the Global Respect Act to the Student Non-Discrimination Act. A member of the Kennedy family, Kennedy is the grandson of former U.S. Attorney General Robert F. “Bobby” Kennedy and a grandnephew of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy.

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>> GAY LONELINESS <<

You’re on the list… All you have to do is in. show up, and jump BY AA RO N ST ELL A

n March 2nd 2017, The Huffington Post published an article titled The Epidemic of Gay Loneliness. It quickly went viral on social media and got everyone talking about gay loneliness as depicted by the article’s author, Michael Hobbes. For a staggering 6,500+ words (about twice the length of a New York Times cover story), Hobbes cites multiple studies and personal anecdotes that in concert paint a grim portrait of loneliness in the gay community. In short, gay men, by virtue of being gay, have a propensity for mental disorders, drug addiction, major depressive episodes, and suicide; and it’s because of these issues that we experience toxic competition in our relationships, and are increasingly inclined to choose self-isolation over social engagement. While I agree with Hobbes on many of his points, I’m shocked as to how he penned almost seven grand of prose without a single mention of all the fabulous ways gay men lead happy lives together. In fact, only the last sentence of his article alludes to a solution: “We keep waiting for the moment when we feel like we’re not different from other people. But the fact is, we are different. It’s about time we accept that and work with it.” Hobbes—you’re a little late to the party, 2 6 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

decades. Some of these gay men identity as queer, faerie, gender fluid, counter-culture, non-normative, and polyamorous (to name a few). Not to mention, everyone has their own interpretation of their chosen identity. They live fabulously open, loud and proud lives and create happiness in their communities. Never once did you mention any of these gay men in your article. They’re as much a part of the gay community as you and your friends are. Some of them are lonely and some of them are not. For the ones that are not lonely, there’s a common denominator: they recognize that community is never perfect because it’s always work in progress. The keyword being there “work” or “werque” and in as many cases as possible, it’s “weeeerrrrqqe”. We celebrate this work, because through our efforts, “we’re a community that’s reinventing culture across the world.” Those are the words of Columbine Demers, a self-identified gay participant living in British Columbia. Demers believes that assuaging loneliness and creating culture go hand-in-hand. “Large numbers of gay men transcend ‘mainstream’ gay culture and learn to relate to each other in less toxic ways,” Demers says, “Find these people and be like them.” Toxicity is not exclusive to men or to gay LEO HERRERA

LEO HERRERA: “OUR COMMUNITY AND OUR CULTURE IS THE WAY WE RELATE TO EACH OTHER… IT’S OUR RELIGION.” buddy. But don’t worry. You’re on the list! Everyone is. All you have to do is show up, and participate. Here’s the skinny: Gay men have been distinguishing themselves from mainstream culture for

> > LEO HERRERA, COLUMBINE DEMERS, BRENDEN SCHUCART < <

COLUMBINE DEMERS

men in general, and toxic masculinity is a struggle for gay men and straight men alike. The difference is that straight culture sanctions it while gay culture tries to examine it. By acknowledging our own toxicity, we are vigilant of it in others. This can make us afraid of branching out and connecting. To surpass your fears, you have to commit to working through toxicity with other people. “People treat friendship and community in the same way they treat their [romantic] relationships. They think they’re just going to fall into it, but it takes sustained intentions and effort…it doesn’t happen overnight,” Demers says. And we have our work cut out for ourselves. Gay safe spaces are declining largely because of mass gentrification in major urban centers. With fewer safe spaces, we have fewer places to interact without fear of discrimination, which, in effect, can make the struggle against loneliness more difficult. “Apps aren’t killing gay spaces”, says Brenden Schucart, writer and advocate for people living with HIV, “People are using apps to make up for the absence of gay spaces in their lives.” “What does that mean? We need to create new gay spaces where new community, new relationships and new identity can thrive,” says Schucart. Pioneering identity and radical relationships has always been a part of gay legacy. Because we

gay men that were building their own unique culture. When Herrera moved to San Francisco, he expected to find these gay men, but didn’t. “I thought I would find these inspiring gay men I read about when I moved to San Francisco. And when I didn’t, I realized I had to do what they did and create culture myself,” Herrera says. “When people make stuff, they don’t have time to sit around and brood on everything that’s wrong,” Herrera says, “So when I hear that someone’s lonely, I ask them, are you lonely, or just bored? What do you do with your time?” Herrera believes that even social media can offer an outlet for engagement and cultural curation. “Do you have a balanced diet of expression on social media? Are you just posting selfies? What is it that you’re providing for everyone else? What are we getting out of your posts? Is it just a mirror for yourself? What are you offering that make you feel connected to other people?” What are you offering that makes you feel connected to other people? Might not be the easiest question to answer, but you can think about it on your way to the party. You’re on the list, remember? Everyone is, after all. All you have to do is show up, and jump in.

COLUMBINE DEMERS: “LARGE NUMBERS OF GAY MEN TRANSCEND ‘MAINSTREAM’ GAY CULTURE AND LEARN TO RELATE TO EACH OTHER IN LESS TOXIC WAYS.”

distinguish ourselves from heteronormative culture, we afford ourselves the freedom to structure relationships based solely on the needs and wants of the people involved. I myself am married, but my husband and I have an open, polyamorous relationship. We have lovers that become friends, and friends that become lovers. While our relationship paradigm isn’t unique, but the way we relate to each other, is. “Our community and our culture is the way we relate to each other,” says gay artist and activist Leo Herrera, “It’s our religion.” Throughout his adolescence and early 20s, Herrera enthralled himself in books about funny and inspiring

BRENDEN SCHUCART

BRENDEN SCHUCART: “WE NEED TO CREATE NEW GAY SPACES WHERE NEW COMMUNITY, NEW RELATIONSHIPS AND NEW IDENTITY CAN THRIVE.” AP R I L 2017 | TH E F I GH T 27

> > D J D A N S L AT E R < <

SPIN CONTROL Catch DJ Dan Slater at White Party Palm Springs next month. BY VI CTOR MELAMED PHOTO BY FERNANDO BAR R AZ A

hite Party headliner Australian born Dan Slater, 34, started his career path as a dancer and a model, however he was always drawn to the exciting life of playing recorded music at a club or party. “I’ve always loved music!” he reveals in an interview with THE FIGHT. “I used to make mix tapes, was always the first one to buy compilations when they were released. But being a dancer, rhythm is instilled in your body. When I finished doing musical theater I decided to go to university and study a Bachelor of Business in Marketing. I still wanted a creative outlet, so I decided to learn how to DJ.” Slater, who has toured throughout Europe, Asia and America, recently began producing his own original material and remixes. “I’m currently working on some new original tracks that will be released for the summer season.,” confides Slater. “I love the creative process, and I enjoy spending time in the studio. Further down the track I’d like to pursue working in entertainment or television, but in a marketing role.” Catch Slater at White Party Palm Springs next month, May 5-8, 2017. For more info visit www.jeffreysanker.com.

2 8 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

PrEP STUDY DISCOVER is a new clinical study for men who have sex with men and trans women who have sex with men. This study is to evaluate if a once-daily investigational medicine can help reduce the risk of getting HIV infection from sex (“PrEP”, or Pre-exposure Prophylaxis).

TO BE ELIGIBLE: • You must be at least 18 years of age • You must be HIV negative If you are accepted into the DISCOVER Study, you will receive study-related exams, lab tests, and study medicine at no cost. For more information, please contact: Evan Fuller, Study Coordinator (310) 967-3620 or efuller@pacificoaks.com

Or go to www.clinicaltrials.gov and search NCT number 02842086

AP R I L 2017 | TH E F I GH T 29

>> JOSHUA R GONZALEZ, MD <<

BETTER SEX “I am happy I had the surgery, the results have been incredible. The implant is easy to use, not noticeable, and sex has been fantastic.” BY VICTO R MELA MED

oshua R Gonzalez, JOSHUA R GONZALEZ, MD MD, an L.A. based fellowship-trained urologic surgeon specializing in men’s health, treats men dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED). “There are solutions for ED. And most of them are covered by insurance,” states Dr. Gonzalez. “Severity is an important factor in picking the right solution. Broadly speaking, there are hormonal treatments, oral and injectable medications that help improve blood flow, and

3 0 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

even surgery. I make a promise to every patient I see with ED: one way or another I will get them an erection.” Dr. Gonzales is passionate about working within the community. “Many of my patients have told me that they feel a sense of relief when they find out that I’m gay. A weight is lifted, the embarrassment goes out the window, and they can finally be honest about what’s going on.” One such patient recently wrote the following testimonial. “My name is John, I am 54, gay, and have been with my partner, Jeffrey, for 17 years. We have recently become dads through surrogacy. We have a 2-year-old son and 6-month-old twins, a girl and a boy. I am a gay professional, in a committed relationship, and a father of three. I have a very busy and active life but struggled with sexual dysfunction. Because of Dr. Joshua Gonzalez and his recommendation of Coloplast surgery, I can now say that I am a professional, a father, and a gay man who has a very satisfying sex life.” “I met Dr. Gonzalez in 2014 and that’s when I first discovered my many years of not being able to maintain an erection and just having okay sex was due to Erectile Dysfunction. After trying a course of different treatments (Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, testosterone replacement, penile injections) with limited success, I consulted with Dr. Joshua Gonzalez. His recommendation was Coloplast surgery and on October 28, 2015, I had the surgery. I did have reservations but I trusted Dr. Gonzalez and he was able to answer my questions and alleviate my fears and concerns. I find Dr. Gonzalez well informed and educated on the most recent information on sexual dysfunctions, patient friendly, and a formidable advocate for the gay community.” “I am happy I had the surgery, the results have been incredible. The implant is easy to use, not noticeable, and sex has been fantastic. Because of Dr. Gonzalez’ recommendation, my erection no longer has control of my sex life. I have control of my sex life.” “I am so happy with the implant, that I have become a patient advocate for Coloplast. I believe there are a lot of men that would benefit from the surgery. I hope that working with Dr. Gonzalez and getting the word out to the gay community will help men struggling with erectile dysfunction. For more info call Dr. Gonzales at 818-301-8912 or visit advantageurology.com.

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1. Nunes KP, Labazi H, Webb RC. New insights into hypertension-associated erectile dysfunction. Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension. 2012;21(2):163–170. Important Safety Information: A penile implant, also called a penile prosthesis, is concealed entirely within the body to address erectile dysfunction (impotence). The implant requires some degree of manipulation before and after intercourse to make the penis erect or flaccid. Penile implants are surgical solutions requiring a healing period and have risks associated with surgery such as pain, anesthesia reactions, repeat surgery due to infections, or mechanical problems with the device. The implant eliminates the possibility of a natural erection. Considerations in choosing a penile implant may include your medical condition, lifestyle, personal preference, and cost. This treatment is prescribed by a physician. Although many patients benefit from the use of this device, results may vary.Discuss the treatment options with your physician to understand the risks and benefits of the various options to determine if a penile implant is right for you. For further question, call Coloplast Corp at 1-800-258-3476 and/or consult the company website at www.coloplast.com The Coloplast logo and Titan are registered trademarks of Coloplast A/S. © 2016. All rights reserved Coloplast Corp.

AP R I L 2017 | TH E F I GH T 31

>> EASTER BONNET BRUNCH <<

EASTER IN THE DESERT INNdulge kicks off spring with their annual Easter Bonnet Brunch. BY JA MES BO O TH

ow through May is the high season in Palm Springs, with temperatures averaging in the 80s, but it’s not only the lovely blue skies that attracts gay visitors. The vintage resort town with its midcentury-modern architecture is more refined than Vegas, yet more reposeful than Los Angeles with plenty to do, from its hot springs, to its stylish hotels, to its golf courses and spas. It’s also a hiker’s paradise with numerous hidden trails along the Coachella Valley and the shopping (downtown and on El Paseo Drive in Palm Desert) cannot be beat! “There are tons of bars, restaurants and nightclubs catering to the large gay crowds,” says Jon Jackson, owner of INNdulge, one of the city’s most popular gay resorts. “In addition to the thousands of gay tourists that come here each week, nearly half of the residents are gay. Palm Springs really is the desert playground for gay men and women.” Perhaps its because spring is in its same, but the city has a special affinity for the vernal equinox. “The entire city comes alive with fun,” continues Jackson. For many guests coming from New York City and other eastern parts of the country, it is their first taste of the sun in months. “We plan a lot of exciting weekly events, culminating in our annual Easter Bonnet Brunch. On that day, we hide eggs, candy, trinkets and everyone dresses to the nines, displaying their wildest bonnets!” The first Easter Bonnet Brunch took place six years ago. It was inspired by INNdulge’s annual Halloween costume contest, a local favorite that has been held annually for over twenty

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years. “We added the Easter Bonnet contest as a springtime version of the costume contest,” says Jackson. The first year was a complete surprise for guests who woke up on Easter morning to a courtyard—prized for its immaculately landscaped lawns and walkways with large modern figure sculptures by artist Mavis McClure—decorated with ribbon and glitter. Guests were offered fabric and glue guns and encouraged to make their own bonnets that first Easter. Today, guests are in-it-to-win-it, arriving to the brunch with their pastels bursting and their bonnets ready to impress. “We love that the Easter Bonnet Brunch has become one more opportunity for INNdulge to be the backdrop of lifelong memories for our guests. It’s become an event many look forward to coming to year-after-year to celebrate the season.” Palm Springs is renowned for its sexual freedom and INNdulge is a clothing optional resort, so we had to ask if anyone has ever attended the Easter Bonnet Brunch in only a bonnet. Says Jackson, “No one has ever arrived to the brunch in only a bonnet, but a few have left that way.” INNdulge kicks off spring with their annual Easter Bonnet Brunch on Sunday, April 16. Visit http://inndulge.com for information.

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THESHARE >> BY PAULO MURILLO <<

CRYSTAL CLEAR

We asked a few local clean and sober folks with various lengths of clean time to share about their experiences with crystal meth. MIKE BEALOR

ULTIMATE FREEDOM

“

rystal meth became my everything really quickly. I put the drug in front of my family and everything I loved about myself went completely by the wayside. I just lived to use. The scariest part about crystal for me were the audio and visual hallucinations. That is the main reason I stopped using. The drug is all consuming and the consequences were homelessness, insanity, psychosis and hospitalization. You are depriving your body of all the basic needs—sleep, food, water, and eventually you end up psychotic. Crystal is a liar. It tells you you are going to connect with people, sexually, intimately, or otherwise, but the exact opposite happens. It was very isolating and any sexual connection was completely devoid of intimacy. Being clean is the ultimate freedom. crystal does not run my life anymore. I get to actually be there for others, the isolation is over and peace of mind has returned.” —Mike Bealor, clean & sober since November 7, 2013.

Today, I can have fun sober and still be a part of. I love that I can wake up the next day and remember what happened the night before. I can get to work and not walk around wondering what happened to my clothes. You don’t have to do drugs to party. Saying no is an option and that is an option that I take every day.” —Armando Melendez, clean & sober since July 4, 2014.

BRANDON DEHART

SENSE OF SELF

“

did meth, but I mostly abused Adderall, which is a legalized form of meth. I did it to stay up all night and to seemingly have fun, but it got to a point where I wouldn’t know where I was, or how I got there. I would lose all sense of self. It made me paranoid, anxious and angry. I don’t recommend people doing crystal meth because of how it effects you physically. It’s very bad for your health, especially for people who likes to go to the gym and invest time on their bodies.

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OFF THE STREETS

“

was 21 when I first did crystal. I met a cute guy that I really liked. I was only going to do it one time, but that one time turned into almost 20 years of addiction. It was kind of fun in the beginning because I was able to stay up all night, but in the end that stopped working. I’d be tired, depressed and paranoid. I thought people were trying to kill me. A couple of times, I wanted to jump out of windows. I called the ambulance on myself because I thought I was dying numerous times. I also thought my family had turned against me. I was making bad decisions. None of it was good. I felt alone. Today, I feel like I’m one of the lucky ones, because there are plenty of people who don’t get to recover from their addiction to meth. I’m close to my family, I’m off the streets, and I have a job that allows me to pay my bills. Things are starting to interest me again. I have a lot of people on my side. I’m grateful for my life today. I no longer feel alone.” —Brandon Dehart, clean & sober since August 26, 2016.

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For Breaking Daily LGBT News Visit

www.thefightmag.com

WIN FROM WITHIN

My-King Johnson is the first-ever openly gay FBS scholarship player. BY VI CTOR MELAMED

y-King Johnson, a highly recruited defensive lineman from Tempe, Ariz., who has committed to play for the University of Arizona this fall, has come out publicly as gay. When he enrolls at the school in Tuscon, he will be the first openly gay scholarship athlete at an FBS school, reports Cyd Ziegler at outsports.com. In a profile in the Arizona Daily Star, written by Zack Rosenblatt, Johnson, who played his high school career at Tempe High School, said he has been open with family and friends about being gay since he was 12. He has found love and support ever since. “I’m a very honest person,” Johnson told Rosenblatt. “I just don’t see how I could be living an honest, truthful life and have that in the background.” Johnson has been living his life openly as gay for years. However, he has also kept his social-media focus on football and sports. Earlier last month though, Johnson posted on Facebook his disappointment that, as a gay man, he’s not allowed to donate blood. “So apparently in Az you can’t donate blood to charity if you are gay and sexually active. Welp,” he wrote. “Never tried to donate blood until now.” “For years,” writes Ziegler, “people have wondered when we would get to the point where big-time college and professional athletes wouldn’t come out as much as they would have already been out as they rose up the ranks. It seems like Johnson fits that mold.” n

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AP R I L 2017 | TH E F I GH T 37

>> GAY LONELINESS <<

RIP WALT CESSNA

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alt Cessna, a queer artist, writer, and photographer who’s been active since the 90s, died last month at 53. The cause of death is not yet known. Cessna was was a vibrant force in New York City’s art scene for decades. In a Queerty profile from 2012, writer John Russell described him as: “a teenage publishing wunderkind, an underage club kid, a zinester, and a designer, stylist and darling of the fashion world. He styled Nine Inch Nails’ Downward Spiral Tour; he dated Mario Testino when he was 18 years old. He was a hustler in San Francisco, a photographer in New York. He’s battled addiction and has been living with HIV for years—facts about which he maintains a gleefully dark sense of humor.” The photos on these pages are some of the images Cessna caught on camera.

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>> CINEARTE <<

MIGUEL ANGEL REYES. UNTITLED, 2015. WATER COLOR ON PAPER.

JOEY TERRILL. “HE WORE RAY BAN GLASSES, A ROLEX WATCH AND HE USED TO EAT MY ASS.” 1985. ACRYLIC ON CANVAS.

ALEX LA CRUZ. PHOTOGRAPH FROM “EL COSMICO.”

HERE. THERE. EVERYWHERE. The Los Angeles LGBT Center presents CineArte, the 4th annual arts festival of the queer Latinx community.

urated by Ruben Esparza, the work presented in “Here. There. Everywhere.” varies from formal paintings and drawings, to photography, to experimental work, including soft sculpture, impromptu performance, and culture mash-ups, all from the Queer Latinx perspective. The exhibit will be open until June 16, 2017, and features the following artists: Laura Aguilar, Marcel Alcala, Maritza Amezcua, Enrique Castrejon, Diego Eduardo, Cleonette Harris a.k.a. Cle Torres, Carolina Hicks, Alex La Cruz, Roy Martinez a.k.a. Lambe Culo, Miguel Angel Reyes, Manuel Rodrigues a.k.a. Sad Boy, Joey Terrill, Rommy Torrico, Luis Valencia. Opening reception on Friday, April 21 at 7pm-11pm, at 1125 N McCadden Pl., Los Angeles, CA 90038.

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LUIS VALENCIA. “SADIQ.” 2015. OIL ON PANEL.

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THEHISTORY >> G I O VA N N I ’ S R O O M <<

JAMES BALDWIN

By describing life as he knew it, James Baldwin created socially relevant, psychologically penetrating literature. BY ORLY LYONNE

riter and activist James Baldwin (Aug. 2, 1924–Dec. 1, 1987) embraced his homosexuality and brought up the topic of sexual orientation in his writings during the mid 20th century, specifically in his novel Giovanni’s Room. Born in Harlem, the grandson of a slave, Baldwin, the oldest of nine children, grew up in poverty. By the time he was fourteen, Baldwin was spending much of his time in libraries and had found his passion for writing. After working for a short while with the railroad, Baldwin moved to Greenwich Village, where he worked for a number of years as a freelance writer, working primarily on book reviews. In 1948, at age 24, Baldwin left for Paris, where he hoped to find enough distance from the American society he grew up in to write about it. Over the next ten years, Baldwin moved from Paris to New York to Istanbul, writing two books of essays, Notes of a Native Son (1955) and Nobody Knows My Name (1961), as well as two novels, Giovanni’s Room (1956) and Another Country (1962). The essays explored racial tension with eloquence and unprecedented honesty; the novels dealt with then taboo themes (homosexuality and interracial relationships). By describing life as he knew it, Baldwin created socially relevant, psychologically penetrating literature. By 1987, when he died of stomach cancer at age 63, James Baldwin had become one of the most important and vocal advocates for equality. n

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“Truly enchanting!

These are the woods that you want to get lost in.” —Ben Brantley, The New York Times

A WITTY AND WILDLY THEATRICAL RE-INVENTION OF FAIRY TALES

The company of Into The Woods. Photo by Joan Marcus.

Apr 4 – May 14, 2017 AhmansonTheatre.org | 213.972.4400

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THEEVENT >> PHOTOS BY ROBERT GREEN, MOTORBOOT PHOTOGRAPHY <<

BROKEBEAR MOUNTAIN ON ST. PATRICK’S DAY Presented by Mr. LA Leather Bear 2015, Sir Frank Cavallo—BrokeBEAR Mountain “Save A Horse...Ride A Bear” took place at The Eagle LA last month with an incredible performance by Sean W Galuszka and the Country Bear Jamboree (David Eccles and Dennis James Willis).

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THEEPIDEMIC > > L AT E N T H I V < <

LURKING HIV

Unique protein that gives away the presence of inactive HIV detected. BY VI CTOR MELAMED

niffing out hidden caches of the HIV virus is something researchers have been trying to do for decades. Now that we have a lead, the finding could speed up research on a cure, reports Science Alert. Thanks to modern antiretroviral therapies, for many people, HIV is not the death sentence it once was. But we still don’t have a reliable way of permanently flushing it out of someone’s system. Drugs can keep the virus in check, but unfortunately HIV has a major weapon—it stows away in secret reservoirs in the immune system. There it lies dormant until conditions are more suitable to re-emerge. That’s why people infected with HIV have to spend a lifetime on expensive drugs, because the virus can take only weeks to come back from its latent state if drug treatment is stopped. Those nasty secret reservoirs HIV creates are located in long-lived immune cells known as resting T cells. Because the virus hijacks these cells and integrates its genetic material into the DNA of the patient, it makes reservoir T cells extremely hard to track down. Now a team of French scientists has managed to achieve this important milestone in HIV research by discovering a biomarker that exists only on the surface of T cells that harbor the latent virus. Tony Fauci, director of the US National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Disease, told Nature that a good next step would be to replicate the findings in more blood samples from a larger variety of patients who have the virus. n

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THECALENDAR >> THINGS TO DO << SATURDAY, APRIL 1

THURSDAY, APRIL 27

MR. LOS ANGELES LEATHER 2017 CONTEST / LEGION LEATHER DANCE PARTY The Globe Theater, 740 S Broadway, Los Angeles. 7pm. More info: losangelesleatherpride.com. The class of 2017 assembled and ready to show you why they earned the titles they represent. Followed by Legion Leather Dance Party. THE UNCONVENTIONAL CANVASES OF KEITH HARING Petersen Automotive Musem, 6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, California SEE THURSDAY, APRIL 27 90036. 10am-6pm. Ongoing through Sundays & Mondays.) Info: June 4. http://one.usc.edu/die-kranken/ At the foremost proponent of A group of artists formed in Southern Californian car culture, The 2015 in response to the extensive Unconventional Canvases of Keith holdings on gay motorcycle clubs Haring is the first time that these five in Southern California housed at works have been shown together. ONE Archives. Taking its inspiration from these outlaw clubs, die ROUGH SEX Kränken’s projects examine the Eagle LA, 4219 Santa Monica Blvd, significance and complicated hisLos Angeles, CA 90029. 9:00pmtory of these motorcycle groups 2:00am. Info: www.EagleLA.com. through a variety of multimedia A sexually charged gear night to and performative strategies. meet like-minded kinky men. . QCC PRESENTS MOONLIGHT Lure Films, 671 North Berendo St, Los Angeles, CA 90004. 7pm-10pm. Info: www.queercinemaclub.com. Queer Cinema Club is a community organization focused on celebrating prominent queer stories made for the screen. SUNDAY, APRIL 2

VICTORY BRUNCH LA Band of Brothers, Farmboy Kitchen, 1052 Vine St, Los Angeles. 11am-1pm. Join the gentlemen of the LA Band of Brothers to salute the winner and contestants for Mr. LA Leather 2017 at Farmboy Kitchen before heading over to the Off Sunset Festival! No cover—order off the menu and get 10% off. OFF SUNSET FESTIVAL Off Sunset Association, Santa Monica Blvd from Hoover to Sunset, 1044 Myra Ave, Los Angeles. 11am-7pm. More info: offsunsetfestival.com. Closing out LA Leather Pride in style, the Off Sunset Association produce one of the hottest events in town. TUESDAY, APRIL 4

DIE KRÄNKEN: SPRAYED WITH TEARS ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archive, 909 West Adams Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90007. (Tuesday thru Fridays: 10am to 6pm Saturdays: 10am to 5pm closed on

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

Outfest West Hollywood Series: HUNGRY West Hollywood Library, 625 N San Vicente Blvd., 7:30pm. A documentary about three female chefs and restaurateurs who shatter the glass ceiling in the California food industry as they risk everything to achieve their culinary and entrepreneurial dreams.

DINING OUT FOR LIFE—LOS ANGELES For more information visit diningoutforlife.com/losangeles. Join participating restaurants with your family and friends for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and a portion of your check will raise funds that help APLA Health and Project Angel Food provide food, nutrition education, as well as essential medical care and social support services, to thousands of people living with HIV/AIDS.

9pm-2am. For more information, visit ragenightclub.com. DJ SALVADOR plays your favorite Latin Music and Videos—21+ $3 Coronas until 10:30pm. HIP HOP room upstairs Go Go Dancers and Drag Performers. SUNDAY, APRIL 9

ONYX SOUTHWEST PRESENTS: APRIL SHOWERS Eagle LA, 4219 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029. Info: www.EagleLA.com. Party with the Men of ONYX Southwest—beer bust. FRIDAY, APRIL 14

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

PLEASURE & PAIN! The Bullet Bar, 10522 Burbank Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601. 8pm-2am. Demonstrations and Guest Participation in Different Fetishes. Flogging, Bondage, Hot Wax, Electro, Needle Play. Silent Auction and Jell-O Shots.

THE RISE AND FALL OF ZIGGY STARDUST AND THE SPIDERS FROM MARS Renberg Theater, 1125 N. McCadden Place, 7:30pm-10pm. The world theatrical debut of the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles (TCLA) and their performance of the planet Earth’s first staged concert production of the full The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars by David Bowie.

BIANCA DEL RIO: NOT TODAY SATAN COMEDY SHOW City National Grove of Anaheim, 2200 East Katella Ave., 8pm-9:30pm. Tickets available at thebiancadelrio.com/tour. Season 6 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, self-professed “clown in a gown,” Bianca Del Rio continues her world-wide stand-up comedy tour.

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

DILF UNDERWEAR/JOCK PARTY UNION, 4067 W Pico Blvd., 10pm4am. To purchase tickets, visit manupp.net. A hot night in your jock with L.A. daddies, bears, pups & sexy boys. Music by DJ Max Bruce of Los Angeles and DJ Nick Bertossi of Vancouver, BC. LATIN NIGHTS RAGE, 8911 Santa Monica Blvd.,

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SATURDAY, APRIL 15

TUESDAY, APRIL 25

JOHN WATERS SIGNS MAKE TROUBLE! Book Soup, 8818 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA. 7:00pm-10:00pm Tickets & Info: http://www.booksoup.com/event/john-waters-signsmake-trouble. From an icon of popular culture, here is inspiring advice for artists, graduates, and all who seek happiness and success on their own terms. So what if you have talent? Then what? This is a book signing only.

BLATINO OASIS 2017 Palm Springs, info: www.blatinooasis.com. A sexy alternative getaway for gay and bisexual men of color from around the world. Socialize, party, and chill with adult men of all ages, in an environment that is more than just a place where you will feel welcome, but a place where you can feel comfortable being just who you are, without shame, without judgment. SATURDAY, APRIL 29

THE DRAG QUEENS OF COMEDY Orpheum Theatre, Los Angeles. 8:00pm. Go to Ticketmaster for tickets. The Drag Queens of Comedy features live performances by Alaska, Willam, Bob The Drag Queen, Sasha Soprano, Coco Peru, Lady Bunny, Jackie Beat, Peaches & Heklina and Lady Red Couture. POOL PARTY 4ALC V2.0 4001 Cherrywood Ave Los Angeles 90008. 1pm-4pm. Open bar, DJ Max Bruce, and plenty of surprises. All proceeds go to AIDS/LifeCycle 2017 which supports the Los Angeles LGBT Center. RUPAUL‘S DRAGCON 2017 10:00am-4:00pm. Tickets & Info: http://rupaulsdragcon.com/about/. Spearheaded by RuPaul and World of Wonder Productions, RuPaul’s DragCon provides a platform for fans of all ages and backgrounds to meet and interact with world-renowned celebrities and icons in a friendly and accessible environment. UNITED PRIDE: CELEBRATING DIVERSITY Eagle LA, 4219 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029. 9pm. Info: www.EagleLA.com. Proceeds benefit BEARS LA and BEARS LA Charities.

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The Fight • QtrPg Vrt 3.56” x 4.6” • RUN DATE: April 2017

THEFINALFIGHT #RESIST

<< PHOTO BY PAULO MURILLO

WE #RESIST

When any American’s rights are under threat, all our rights are threatened.

his year, LA Pride is hosting a human rights march instead of a parade. The march is called the #ResistMarch and is in unity with sister marches taking place in New York, Austin, Seattle, Washington D.C. and other cities across the nation. Taking place on Sunday, June 11, 8am-1pm, the march will start in Los Angeles, at the intersection of Hollywood and Highland. It will end in West Hollywood. Here is the mission statement published on the #ResistMarch’s website: When any American’s rights are under threat, all our rights are threatened. We are LGBTQ+. We are people of color. We are people of different faiths. We are people of all genders and no gender. We are immigrants. We are dreamers. We are people with disabilities. We are parents. We are allies. And we are beautiful intersections of these. But most of all, we are American. Yet our rights are in jeopardy. Forces are gathering in government that intend to take away our hard-won basic human rights. We are calling on everyone to peacefully march with us on June 11th from Hollywood and Highland to West Hollywood. Instead of a Pride Parade meant to celebrate our past progress, we are going to march to ensure all our futures. Just as we did in 1970s first LGBTQ+ Pride, we are going to march in unity with those who believe that America’s strength is its diversity. Not just LGBTQ+ people but all Americans and dreamers will be wrapped in the Rainbow Flag and our unique, diverse, intersectional voices will come together in one harmonized proclamation. 5 0 T H E F IGH T | www.thefightmag.com

JUST AS WE DID IN 1970S FIRST LGBTQ+ PRIDE, WE ARE GOING TO MARCH IN UNITY WITH THOSE WHO BELIEVE THAT AMERICA’S STRENGTH IS ITS DIVERSITY. We #RESIST forces that would divide us. We #RESIST those who would take our liberty. We #RESIST homophobia, xenophobia, sexism, and racism. Together we #RESIST n For more info visit www.resistmarch.org.

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