The Rainbow Times' April, 2011 Edition

RainbowTimes

free!

Vol. 30 • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

The

The Freshest Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Newspaper in New England

Photo: Marilyn Humphries

p7

barbara A. Lenk

catherine d’amato

Fenway Health’s Dr. Susan M.Love Award Winner

here’s johnny!

Photo: when night is falling

p19

Rising Hip-Hop Duo Keepin’ It Real

God-Des & She

Icy Hot Figure Skater Spins His Tale

TRT HEROES: CT’s True Colors’ Robin McHaelen p14 Domestic-Partner Abuse in the Black LGBT Community p8

Noho Pride

brings Kate Clinton, Jim Lauletta & Robert DeMayo to Northampton!

UMASS Systems Extends Protection to Gender Identity and Expression p3

p6

Photo: Alison Narro Photography

p9

Photo: greater boston food bank

Openly Gay Justice Nominated to MA Highest Court

• April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

opinion

Immigration insufficiencies impair gay community Police repression is not just an old story: By: Nicole Lashomb*/TRT Editor-in-Chief sponsoring gay, lesbian, transgender, transsexual Third largest perpetrators of anti-LGBT violence es, it is true. U.S. Immigration au- and bisexual refugees overseas to Canada.”

Y

thorities are denying applications for same-sex couples to receive immigration benefits after an extensive legal review.

Recently, the spokesman for the U.S. Citizenship and Services agency said that lawyers from the Department of Homeland Security determined that the law prohibiting the government from recognizing same sex marriages must be followed. Despite Pres. Obama’s ardent decision to stop defending the constitutionality of DOMA in the court, it will stay in place, at least for the time being.

Due to the uncertainty of where this issue is headed, an international citizen married to a same-sex U.S. citizen will not be given the right to enter the country to be with their spouse, but instead, their immigration application will be temporarily suspended while the legal process is reviewed.

Meanwhile, our neighbors to the North have recently expanded their immigration regulations for LGBT individuals and partners. Budgets have been revised and implemented to ensure that LGBT identified people will be able to gain entry into the county, especially those who are at risk of surviving or being persecuted in their country of origin.

According to the Toronto Star, “Citizenship and Immigration Canada will work with the Rainbow Refugee Committee to share the cost of

This program will provide $100,000 in refugee assistance, covering up to three months of income support to the refugees. Additionally, orientation services, accommodation, food and other basic need services will be provided … quite the contrast to the current U.S. practices of exclusion.

Helen Kennedy, executive director of Egale Canada, said that 77 countries continue to criminalize homosexuality and others prescribe the death penalty, according to the Star’s report.

Interestingly enough, although not surprising, the United States continues to lag behind in affording global citizens their natural rights while we continue to exonerate proper review of the legal process. Meanwhile, countries like Canada are actually doing something to improve the lives of our global LGBT family … It is shameful for a resource-rich country that prides itself on being the “land of the free” to sit on the sidelines reviewing our legal process while others are in action. It makes me wonder which country is actually the “land of the free.”

Nicole Lashomb *Nicole Lashomb is the Editor-in-Chief of The Rainbow Times, holds a Bachelor’s degree from SUNY Potsdam, and an MBA from Marylhurst University. Send your Letters to the Editor to editor@therainbowtimesnews.com.

Queeries: To spy or not? Plus, some in-law insight

advice

By: Steven Petrow*/Special for TRT

“To spy or not on my girlfriend”

Q: Last week I picked up my girlfriend’s cell and read a very intimate text from someone who was no doubt a sexual partner. I completely flipped out and have been thinking about downloading some of the “spy” software that allows you “to find out everything THEY DO on the Internet and computer.” Do you think that’s a good idea?

A: No. I’d start by asking your girlfriend about the text message you saw and see both what she says and how she acts. But let’s say, for arguments sake, you’re not satisfied by her response or simply

don’t trust it. Now, you’ve got a problem. But it’s not one that would be solved by signing up for one of those “I spy” services. Indeed, my understanding is that this spyware can alert you to keywords in her chats, instant messages, emails and can let you see everything she posts on Facebook, every site she visits or searches for, and every photo she’s posted. You can also retrieve passwords and logins.

Horrifying, I say. Whether or not you find more dirt, you’re already proven yourself distrustful -- so what’s the point? A relationship dispute is not akin to a court inquisition. Whether by talking more or seeing a couple’s counselor, you need to get to the See Queeries on page 16

Regional LGBT chambers and their importance By: Jenn Tracz*/CABO’s Executive Director ack in November I wrote about an amazing experience that I had at a conference in Washington D.C., hosted by the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). That particular conference brought hundreds of business and community leaders to discuss the LGBT movement in terms of economic development and business.I am thrilled to say that CABO is the host destination for the regional version of this conference in May. LGBT chamber leaders from all over the Northeast will descend upon Foxwoods Resort Casino for this great event. Chambers in attendance will include Boston, Connecticut, New York, Philadelphia, Central Pennsylvania, Washington D.C., Hampton Roads, Virginia and the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. The purpose of this event is to share best practices and utilize joint resources to provide the best value to each chamber’s growing membership. I feel confident that each of us will go back to our respective areas with many new ways to make a different in the community; I know I will.CABO is CT’s LGBT chamber and all of the cities and states listed above have amazing chambers. If you live in any of these areas and are looking to find out more information about what the chamber does, what mission it serves or how to get involved, e-mail me and I will personally put you in touch with the best resource to handle

B

your questions. Each LGBT chamber serves a similar mission and it is our responsibility to work together for the greater good of the LGBT community and the businesses we represent.CABO is able to provide services to its member in large part due to our corporate partnerships, which include; Aetna, Jenn Tracz Foxwoods, Murtha Cullina LLP, Comcast Business Class, Bearingstar Insurance, Nutmeg State Federal Credit Union, Clear Channel Radio and The Rainbow Times. Each of these businesses has something great to offer and their commitment and support to the LGBT community is what separates them from the rest. We highly encourage you to do business with one or all of them. As a CABO member there are many great exclusive offers to take advantage of. *In her role as Executive Director, Jenn is responsible for maintaining and growing membership, developing strategic business partnerships and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the organization. In addition to being CABOÕs executive director, she also is a small business owner specializing in planning, branding, social media and design services.

By: Jason Lydon/TRT Columnist n March 25, 2011 former City Councilor Chuck Turner reported to the Federal Bureau of Prisons to begin his three year prison sentence. The night prior to his sentence Chuck was part of an incredibly wellattended event, “Framing the Innocent: Crimes Under Color of Law at the Massachusetts U.S. Attorney’s Office.” Unfortunately Northeastern University Security severely limited attendance of the event in what seemed to be an attempt to silence those looking to provide support to Chuck and engage in work to hold the US Attorney’s Office accountable for their violence against marginalized communities. Organizers of the event held the forum at Northeastern Law with the intention of reaching multiple communities including, “communities that have been targeted for severe repression and abuse, people with legal skills who are willing to use them in defense of basic rights and on behalf of communities denied those rights, civic, religious and political leaders willing to speak out against injustice on this issue, and independent media willing to tell the story that the mainstream media has censored.” Even with the discriminatory behavior by the Northeastern Security community members came out in force to give voice to a growing movement fighting back against government repression.

Our queer and transgender family is not unfamiliar with the vicious surveillance and repression tactics of the FBI and other government

O

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, As a layman who is well-versed in the health effects of radiation, I am offended by the misleading comments of TEPCO, Japanese and US government officials and media commentators of the radiation being inflicted on the people of Japan, the region, and the world. Radiation exposure is cumulative. As the work of Dr. John Goffman, a Manhattan Project participant, demonstrated back in the 1980s, there is no safe level of radiation.

Every cumulative increase in exposure over a lifetime correlates to an increase in catastrophic health effects.

When we hear government, nuclear industry or media comparisons of a radiation exposure to a chest X-ray or to background radiation levels, as if these are normal or safe, we are hearing the echoes of outdated Cold War propaganda when science was bent to serve nuclear ambitions.

Every discussion of radiation exposure must include the fact that there is no level of exposure that is safe and that the dangers of exposure to background, medical or industrial radiation increase with each successive exposure.

Just because people’s hair isn’t falling out and their skin hasn’t turned black doesn’t mean that any given exposure is not dangerous. Every exposure increases the risk and likelihood that negative health effects will be found. Comparing doses without stating that the dangers of exposure to radiation are cumulative is either a sign of a profound and inexcusable scientific illiteracy, or a desire to mislead the public.

—Scott Ainslie, Brattleboro, VT

agencies. Two of the three authors of the recently published, Queer (In)Justice: The Criminalization of LGBT People in the United States, Joey Mogul and Andrea Ritchie, are on a book tour and Jason Lydon stopped in Boston on March 31st at an event sponsored by Black and Pink (an open family of LGBTQ prisoners and free world allies who support each other in the work towards abolishing the prison industrial complex, www.blackandpink.org). This text uses both historical and contemporary research to show the ways LGBT people, especially LGBT people of color, low-income/poor folks, and youth, are criminalized and penalized under the current punishment system we live under in the United States. When many mainstream gay and lesbian groups talk about police repression, they speak of it as if it only exists within the past. However, the National Coalition of AntiViolence Projects reports that “law enforcement officers were the third-largest perpetrators of anti-LGBT violence [in 2008]. Incidences of reported police violence against LGBT people increased by 150 percent between 2007 and 2008.” Police repression is not just a story of See Police Repression on page 12

The351Rainbow Times Pleasant St., #322

Northampton, MA 01060 www.therainbowtimesnews.com editor@therainbowtimesnews.com sales@therainbowtimesnews.com Phone: 413.282.8881, 617.444.9618 or Fax: 888-442-2421 Publisher Gricel M. Ocasio Editor-In-Chief Nicole Lashomb Assistant Editor Natalia Muñoz Sales Associates Chris Gilmore Liz Johnson Lead Photographer Glenn Koetzner Webmaster Jarred Johnson Lead Designer Jim Curran

Columnists Lorelei Erisis Deja N. Greenlaw Paul P. Jesep Jason Lydon Tynan Power Jenn Tracz John Verlinden Susan Ryan-Vollmar Reporters Chuck Colbert Clara Lefton Christine Nico Tynan Power Joe Siegel

The Rainbow Times is published monthly by The Rainbow Times, LLC. TRT is affiliated with the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, CABO - The Connecticut Alliance for Business Opportunity, and QSyndicate. The articles written by the writers, columnists, and correspondents express their opinion, and do not represent the endorsement or opinion of The Rainbow Times, LLC or its owners.

To write letters to the editor, please send your letters, with your name, address and phone number to: The Rainbow Times (address shown above), or e-mail any comment/s to the editor at: editor@therainbowtimesnews.com. All submissions will be edited according to space constraints. The Rainbow Times, LLC reserves the right not to print any or all content, or advertisements for any reason at all. TRT is not responsible for advertising content. To receive The Rainbow Times at your home via regular mail, or through electronic delivery, please visit our website.

The whole content and graphics (photos, etc.) are the sole property of The Rainbow Times, LLC and they cannot be reproduced at all without TRT’s consent.

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 •

in the limelight

261 Discharged under DADT for FY-2010 UMass system widens protection to also categorized as “act,” except for the Army, which include Gender Identity and Expression By: Chuck Colbert/TRT Reporter During its final year as federal law and reported four times as many — 74 classified as military policy, “don’t ask, don’t tell” has resulted in the discharge of 261 members of the armed forces. The Department of Defense numbers for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines stand at 250, while the Department of Homeland Security, with authority for the Coast Guard, discharged an additional eleven guardsmen.

News of the latest gay-related discharges, under a nearly 18-year policy that was supposed to allow gays to serve as long as they were not out, came on Thurs., March 24, from Servicemembers United, a repeal-the-ban advocacy group, based in the nation’s capital. The organization requested data under the Freedom of Information Act, which provides for public disclosure of documents and information controlled by the federal government.

Roughly three-fourths, or 180 of the 250 discharges from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, fell under the category of “statement,” according to a March 4, 2011 “don’t ask, don’t tell” separations tally provided by the Defense Manpower Data Center. Another 65 discharges were in the category of “act,” with five discharges classified as “marriage.”

The information provided by the Coast Guard to Servicemembers United did not include classification categories for its discharge numbers.

Overall, the Army led the way in total number of discharges, tossing out 93 soldiers. The Air Force discharged 64 airmen, the Navy booted 54 sailors, and the Corps discharged 39 marines.

Across the four branches, “statement” discharges accounted for twice as many as those

“statement” compared to 18 categorized as “act.”

The 2010 fiscal year time period for the numbers reported ran from Oct. 1, 2009 through Sept.

30, 2010.

In a press release, Servicemembers United’s executive director Alex Nicholson said, “While this latest official discharge number represents an all-time annual low, it is still unusually high considering that the Secretary of Defense issued a directive half-way through the fiscal year to make it much harder for military units to discharge troops under ‘don’t ask, don’t tell.’”

Nicholson was referring to guidelines, issued in March 2010 by Defense Secretary Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, designed to reduce the number of gay discharges.

There were several regulatory policy changes. One raised the rank of military officer who could initiate investigations and authorize separations to flag officer — admiral or general. Another change disallowed “hearsay” and “overheard statements,” along with confidential or privileged information as trigger mechanisms for fact-finding investigations of suspected violators of the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. Additionally, a third party was no longer considered as a “reliable source” of information for initiating investigations.

The 261 number of discharges last year is also significantly lower than numbers from previous years. By comparison, 499 members of the armed forces were discharged under “don’t ask, don’t tell” in the 2009 fiscal year, with 715 discharged in 2008 and 696 tossed out in 2007, according to a count by Servicemembers United.

See DADT Discharge on page 23

By: Tynan Power/TRT Reporter On February 23rd, the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Board of Trustees voted to include “gender identity or expression” in the University’s Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity policy.

The system-wide policy change came soon after Governor Deval Patrick’s February 17th Executive Order prohibiting discrimination of transgender state employees. The new University policy covers students as well as employees.

Genny Beemyn, director of the UMass Amherst Stonewall Center, was told by the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition that the Governor’s executive order covered employees at state universities; however, having a non-discrimination policy for the University added security.

“Because this is an Executive Order, if we get a Republican governor in office, it can be repealed,” Beemyn said. “I don’t particularly see that some evil administrator could come along at UMass and yank the policy. I think that it would be too politically dangerous for someone to do something like that.”

The non-discrimination policy at UMass, Amherst was revised in 2009 to include gender identity and expression. Beemyn’s efforts helped bring about that change and Beemyn believes it paved the way for the Trustees’ decision.

“I’m sure that it helped that the largest campus had already [changed its policy],” Beemyn said.

“There was no reason the other campuses in the system wouldn’t follow suit.”

“A number of surrounding public higher education institutions already use that language. We put it out there that they had it in, so should we,” said Marie Hedrick, an undergraduate student and president of the UMass Boston chapter of Massa-

chusetts Students Uniting.

Even with that persuasive argument and the model of UMass Amherst, the change didn’t happen overnight.

“We started working on [the policy change] last year,” Hedrick said. “The [policy] language didn’t go through as fast as we wanted, but it did go through so we’re very happy with that.”

Students at UMass Boston played a key role in bringing the need for a change to the attention of the Board of Trustees, according to Hedrick.

“A group of undergraduate students from UMass Boston called the LGBTQ Equality Coalition gathered student signatures saying that we wanted gender included,” said Hedrick. “We went over to the Labor Resource Center on campus and [LRC Director] Susan Moir signed one of the people working there to work with us on the project. All together we came up with five different documents that the University currently has for an anti-discrimination clause or equivalent. Some of them we found were just horribly outdated. They hadn’t been updated in a long time. So as well as including gender, there were some other things that needed to be updated.

We went to the Equal Opportunity Director at UMass Boston, with a couple of trans students. We pointed out that the policies were outdated and that we specifically were interested in gender and gender expression being included. Then the two students were also able to add personal stories about why that specifically was so important in their experience at UMass Boston, inside and outside of the classroom.”

Other campuses can look to UMass Amherst to see what impact they can expect from the new See UMass Policy on page 22

Faith, Family, and God: Is it Satan or is it us?

By: Paul P. Jesep*/TRT Columnist he uptight, judgmental Church Lady on Saturday Night Live would twitch her head and ask guests who made them sin. “Was it Satan?” Flip Wilson dressed in drag on his weekly variety show as the liberated, no-nonsense Geraldine. She’d swing her hips, click her fingers, and declare “the Devil made me do it!” Many growing up were conditioned to think that if they didn’t behave in a certain way, even if it was unnatural, Satan would skewer them over an open pit for eternity. This was especially true for the LGBT and Searching community.

The idea or concept of sin needs to be re-examined for many reasons. It has been misunderstood and used throughout history to control, exploit, and abuse.

I’ll take up sin in future columns. But for now let’s focus on the little red Devil.

Lucifer gets blamed for many things. I once read about a high ranking Catholic official who claimed that two teenagers dressed as Goths were inspired by Satan to spray-paint a wall. Yikes! I’m shaking in my boots! In reality, it sounded like the dynamic duo needed some tough love from an engaged parental figure.

Are there demons? Yes … and no. I sound like a lawyer, don’t I? I can’t help it. I am one. By the way, I generally don’t admit to it unless I’m in a doctor’s office.

If the Devil is a real being then let’s pray for the little horny bastard’s redemption and be done with him and all the evil he unleashes in the world. Let’s believe in the miracle of prayer to save Lucifer’s soul. Hurray for our brother the Devil! He will be redeemed! Hallelujah!

Seriously, I do believe in demons, but we create them. It’s our negative energy, our pessimistic outlook on life, our ongoing lament that life

in the name of god

• April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

T

PO Box 385, Easthampton, MA 01027 Phone/Fax: (413) 552-8496 • Email: candm884@aol.com

is unfair that gives form to this obstacle society calls the Devil. Satan roughly translates to “oppose” or “obstruct.” It can also mean “adversary.” In short, we’re our own worst enemy. We oppose joy, peace, and happiness by creating emotional and psychological barriers or obstacles to our own wellbeing. Sometimes it’s easier to blame an outside force like a demon rather than work at re-directing negative energy into a positive force for change.

Yehuda Berg, an expert in Kabbalah, wrote a witty, entertaining, and very enlightening book, Satan – An Autobiography, that underscores that if we’re really honest with ourselves many of our problems are self-inflicted. The book is written in the first person by Satan. Satan isn’t a bad guy in this case. He’s actually very helpful. He shares secrets that enable us to realize our Creation as the Creator intended.

Here are excerpts to reflect on: “… start appreciating everything you have taken for granted, because otherwise, I [Satan] own you … You deprive me when you stop being negative; it’s your negativity that gives me my energy… I’ll let you keep the happiness and fulfillment that is your birthright if you will let go of the notion that you are not worthy of having this joy. When you let go of me, I let go of you.”

Few things are more destructive than negative energy. Although we often create it, it also can be projected on us by those who relentlessly whine or complain. We all get on the pity-fest bandwagon. We’re human. At some point, however, you need to move on. Take whatever negative energy held you down and re-channel it toward the positive. Life’s too short to do otherwise. *Paul is an author, attorney, and a seminary trained, ordained priest in greater Albany, NY. He is a contributor to the book Homosexuality in the Orthodox Church, available on Amazon. com. He may be reached at Dilovod@aol.com.

5th Annual Western MA Youth Pride Prom: Free and fun event an accepting evening Holyoke, MA—The 5th Annual Western Mass Youth Pride Prom will be Saturday, May 14 from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. at the Baystate Conference Center located at 361 Whitney Avenue, Holyoke, MA. WMYP Prom was started in 2007 by Holyoke For All – Holyoke Para Todos for local youth to have a prom experience with the date of their choice, and dressed as they chose. The event is open to all youth ages 14-20. (School or Government Issued ID Required).

Both Students and their allies from all of Northern Connecticut and Western Mass are

equally welcome to attend.

There is no admission fee. Holyoke For All – Holyoke Para Todos is seeking any adults ages 21+ who wish to be volunteers or chaperons for the night of the prom. Any one interested in volunteering must attend one of the two volunteer training dates also at the Baystate Conference Center on either Thursday April 21, 2011 or Thursday April 28th, 2011 both training times will be from 6pm-8pm.

For more information, or to volunteer, or become a sponsor contact hfa.hpt@gmail.com.

There is still time...

Advertise in One of the Country’s Largest LGBT Pride Guides: The Boston Pride Guide

41st

Proudly produced by The Rainbow Times Info/Sales:617-444-9618

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 •

• April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

On the rise hip hop duo God-Des & She set to rock the mic at Noho Pride By: Christine Nicco/TRT Entertainment Reporter Ever since appearing on Showtime’s hit series, The L Word, God-Des & She’s talent and their fans insatiable appetite for their music have launched the hip hop duo into star-studded status. Selling over 30,000 albums and holding down the No. 1 spot on MTV LOGO with their song Love You Better, God-Des & She will share their love with Northampton, Mass. as they rock the stage at Noho Pride on May 7.

Self-described as driven, eclectic and hilarious, God-Des & She’s multifaceted talent is comprised of more than just musical chemistry, they have musical alchemy. God-Des’ quicklipped rapping talent is developed from a family of classical musicians while She is the product of working class heroes, whose powerful, natural talent could not be contained from an early age. As different as their two backgrounds are, God-Des’ irreverent rhymes with She’s soaring voice, create shimmering, irresistible tracks which captivate crowds all over the world.

TRT caught up with the international music

sensation to bring you this exclusive and intimate interview.

Christine Nicco: How has your appearance on The L Word affected your career?

She: The L word changed everything. We got to quit our crappy day jobs and do music full time. How’s that for change? I always said I was going to be a singer for my job and now I get to be. The L Word gave us immense visibility in the LGBT community. It was amazing. It has definitely been a roller coaster but I wouldn’t change a thing. Well, maybe a couple things (laughs).

CN: What was the most challenging aspect of your life and career when you moved to NYC in 2004 to take them to the next level? Did you ever have doubts about your destiny?

She: NYC is no joke. When I moved there from WI I was terrified. It was such a different culture and pace than I was used to. Talk about going out of your comfort zone. It was the most crowded lonely place I have ever experienced. Yet, as they say, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

I’m thankful for the strength and tenacity it gave me. I was buying bodega sandwiches with nickels at one point but somehow made it through.

We found a community of people there that helped us through the hard times. Of course there were times that I doubted everything in NYC but I kept pushing. I am so proud of how far we have come as people and musicians. Without the hard times the good wouldn’t be so great. Right?

God-Des: In Madison, I was a big fish in a small pond, and in NYC, I become a tiny minnow

in a huge ocean. That was difficult to adjust to God-Des: I was certainly teased a lot for being but actually extremely humbling. It made me a Tomboy and hanging out with the only African grow as a human and musician and realize that American kid in my school. I can’t even say the I still had and have a lot more names I was called. But I tried to learn. not to get too discouraged. I CN: According to your website knew the kids were ignorant your new album, Three, conand that I would eventually be firms your status as an underout of that horrible place. And ground act about to hit the mainlook at me now? A lot of them stream. What do you attribute to stayed in the small town and your widespread success? aren’t doing much with their She: I attribute our success life. Stay strong. to our drive, talent and love CN: You are going to be perof our fans. We truly love our forming at Noho Pride on May fans. At every show and every 7th. What can attendees expect pride we stay and take pictures from your performance? and sign autographs for every She: We are indeed rocking single person that wants one.

Noho Pride this year! People It means a lot to us to have our can expect to feel inspired and fans support us for so long. be blown away by our energy We are just real. People seem and love! Not to mention our to really appreciate that. kick a** songs (smiles).

CN: Let’s talk about bullying.

What do you say to kids who God-Des & She will perPhoto: Alison Narro Photography form at Noho Pride on May are experiencing anti-LGBT bullying? Were you ever God-Des & She 7 in downtown Northampton, bullied? If so, what got you Mass. For more information through it? or to purchase any of their albums, please visit, She: Bullying makes my heart break. As a kid www.god-desandshe.com.

I was teased a lot for being overweight. It was such an awful feeling. Kids are so interested in Find out God-Des & She’s being the same and anything that sets you apart advice to LGBT artists, is attacked. People are taught to fear differences lessons learned, most instead of embrace them. How boring would our memorable performancworld be if we were all alike? Gross. I want to say to all the beautiful queer kids out there ... Find es and much more at: your family. Get some support. You are not alone. www.therainbowtimesmass.com/ We love you. It’s so sad that later in your life it’s goddesandshe your uniqueness that you end up celebrating.

Gangsta-Groove: Chart Topper Aiden Leslie By: Will Baker/Special for TRT Hip-pop phenomenon Aiden Leslie hit the top of the charts this month with his club track, “Worlds Away.” The song about life’s ups and downs struck a chord with clubbers for its slick grooves and gangsta rap rhymes, courtesy of Farrah Burns. Is this the beginning of a new movement of sound uniting Gangsta with Groove? We spoke to the man behind the beat.

Q: What inspires your writing?

A: I am constantly inspired by life’s journey. Life is bittersweet. We all have a purpose here and the goal is to find it and live it. Music guides us to these questions and answers. To share that is a gift.

Q: Is WORLDS AWAY your first foray into hip hop?

A: I coin it as “Hip-Pop” because it’s a blend of hip hop and pop. I’ve wanted to explore hip hop and Farrah was the perfect choice for this song.

Will Baker: Congratulations on Q: What is WORLDS AWAY the success of WORLDS AWAY. about?

Aiden Leslie: We’ve had an A: Very simply, “Worlds overwhelming response from new Away” is about how we fans from all parts of the world. It’s deal with life’s struggles. the greatest reward when people write Q: How does the music to you to tell you they were moved by video compliment the your song. single?

Q: When did you first know you had A: It takes it to another a hit on your hands?

Photo: Joseph Smileuski level. I love the style, the setting and A: The video was picked up by MTV the overall vibe. and VH1 within a few days of the re- Aiden Leslie Q: You tell quite a story in the video! lease. That felt really nice. But I guess it was when we hit #1 on Masterbeat.com that I knew A: It’s like an action movie! The ladies are my protectors; my crew. It’s like Charlie’s Angels with a bit we really had something.

Q: You write your own material. Of all the songs that of Bond Girls tossed in. Robert Vasquez, the man in the video, represents the opposition. I orchestrate his you write, how many are made into records?

A: Maybe 20%. I write a lot of songs that are not im- capture and demise by luring him in with my girls. mediately recorded. It is nice to have a wide-range to They drug him and plant a bomb in his home, per my order. choose from when it’s time to get back in the booth.

Q: Can you see yourself venturing into other genres Q: What one element must every hit song have? of music?

A: A killer hook.

Q: Have you written any new songs that you think A: Absolutely. I continue to evolve and so does my music. have the potential to be future hits?

Q: Is a follow-up to WORLD’S AWAY already in A: Absolutely.

Q: Have you ever thought you might have a hit but the works?

A: Yes, I am back in the studio now. This is just the after recording, realized it was a miss?

A: Sure, but you know, there are so many elements beginning. I’m excited to see what the future holds. that make a hit. Promotion is key. There are lots of For more information on Aiden Leslie’s music, hits out there that never see the light of day because visit www.AidenLeslie.com or reach him on Facebook. there was no effort to get it to the masses.

Openly Gay Justice Nominated to MA Highest Court islative decisions have affected her life as a citiBy: Nicole Lashomb/TRT Editor-in-Chief BOSTON, MA—As an advocate for the LGBT zen of Massachusetts, not only the Goodridge community, Governor Deval Patrick is break- decision.

“That’s the awesome power of the law, it afing through barriers again. On April 4, the Governor announced his nomination of openly fects human lives,” she said.

“Judge Lenk’s appointment would shatter the gay Barbara A. Lenk, a Massachusetts Appeals Court Associate Justice, to the state’s Supreme glass ceiling in Massachusetts around the appointment of openly Judicial Court (SJC).

LGBT attorneys to If confirmed by the the state’s highest Governor’s Council, court,” said MassELenk’s appointment quality Executive would set a precedent Director Kara Suffor the state’s highest fredini, Esq . “The court. Having wed bench should reflect her same-sex partthe community that ner after the court’s it serves. It’s unlandmark decision deniable that the to legalize sameexistence of openly sex marriage in the LGBT attorneys and commonwealth in judges influences de2004, Lenk would be bate on the legal isthe first openly gay sues that impact our person to sit on the Photo: Marilyn Humphries lives.”

SJC’s bench.

Lenk holds a Ph.D. “I like the idea of Barbara A. Lenk speaks at the announcement of in philosophy from firsts, as you know, her nomination by Governor Patrick to the MasYale University and and I’m proud of this sachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. a J.D. from Harvard one. But, first and foremost, this is a very well-prepared, highly Law School. Her law specialization focused on qualified candidate,” said Governor Patrick dur- civil litigation and First Amendment matters. In ing the press conference on Lenk’s nomination. 1993, she was appointed to the Superior Court Governor Patrick has remained committed to and served there until she was appointed to the nominating justices and other government offi- Appeals Court in 1995.

“Judge Lenk embodies the highest ethics, incials that reflect the commonwealth’s diversity.

Roderick Ireland was named the first African- tegrity, qualifications, and experience required American Chief Justice of the SJC, and Fer- of a Supreme Judicial Court justice,” Suffredini nande R.V. Duffly was the first Asian-Ameri- said. “She is a well-respected member of the bar and we look forward to her receiving the supcan Justice to gain a seat.

Lenk said many of the commonwealth’s leg- port of the Governor’s Council.”

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 •

• April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

Roundtable discussion addresses domestic-partner abuse in the Black LGBT community

eastern ma

“Domestic Violence in the Black Queer CommuBy: Chuck Colbert/TRT Reporter One in four LGBT persons experience nity,” adding, “When coupled with issues around domestic violence, according to research white privilege and race, barriers to accessing serconducted by a non-profit organization, vices only become wider.”

The facilitated conversation took place on Thursthe Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project, or GMDVP.Founded in 1994, the or- day evening, Feb. 17, at Boston-based Fenway ganization has provided crisis intervention, Health. More than 75 people attended.

“The fact that this conother services, versation is happening at and support to all speaks volumes” Gill abuse survivors stressed, explaining, it for 17 years. was “respectful but genuAnd yet maininely honest conversation stream programs about language, race, still perceive dohomophobia (trans and mestic violence, bi phobia, too), cultural or intimate partcompetency, perceptions ner abuse, as a straight, of provider agencies bewhite women’s issue, ing white-led, and the role with females portrayed of the black church.” as victims and males deUltimately, the aim of picted as perpetrators of Photo: glenn koetzner the roundtable discusabuse, exclusively. sion, Gill explained, “was Given that cultural con- Groundbreaking roundtable discussion, to look beyond domestic text and so much attention “Domestic Violence in the Queer Black violence as just generic to paid to the gay commu- Community,” hosted by the GMDVP and the LGBT community and nity overall, what can be held at Boston-based Fenway Health. to see the specific needs of said about the experience of domestic-violence survivors within a sub popu- underrepresented communities who suffer abuse.”

For three hours, mainstream and gay-commulation, namely the black LGBT community?

That was the topic of conversation during a nity-based service providers, law enforcement and groundbreaking roundtable discussion hosted by public health officials, black LGBT community GMDVP in collaboration with black gay commu- leaders, and a black lesbian survivor, among others, spoke about the challenges inherent in raising nity leaders.

“There is such a lack of basic research, commen- awareness of domestic violence within the Africantary, and resources afforded to the LGBT survivor American gay community, as well as the challenges population,” said Iain Gill, GMDVP’s education that victims face in accessing services, resources, director, who moderated the discussion entitled and support that they urgently need for recovery.

Altogether, four panelists made short presentations, followed by facilitated conversation. Writer and theologian, the Rev. Irene Monroe spoke first about black queer culture.

“One salient feature that contributes to domestic violence in our community, is the dominant view that our race is more predisposed to engage in violence and enjoys it,” she said. “If we are going to talk about domestic violence and the black LGBT community, then we are going to have to talk about classism and white-skin privilege and how that plays out when going to white health-care providers,” who are frequently told in emergency room

settings, for example, that “physical violence is an battered.” acceptable part of [our] lives.”

In follow-up e-mail correspondence, Sue ChandFor their part, Blake Johnson, GMDVP hotline er, the organization’s executive director, spoke advocate, and Tré Andre, community programs co- to Jones-Jenkins’ concerns, reaffirming a comordinator for The Network/La Red (www.thenet- mitment to inclusion: “We at DOVE know that worklared.org), discussed barriers and gaps in ac- women can be abusers and men can be victims,” cessing services. she said.“DOVE has committed itself this year to The Network/La Red creating a welcoming and is a social-justice and seraffirming environment vice- provider organization for LGBTQ survivors dedicated to ending abuse accessing our services, in lesbian, bisexual and from community-based transgender communities. support groups, to legal One barrier, they said, assistance, to emergency is that black LGBT vicshelter.We hope that the tims often seek support LGBTQ community will from providers who lack work with us toward this basic cultural competence end.” in the black queer experiAdditionally, Jonesence, let alone sensitivity Jenkins did not feel about gay life overall. comfortable, she said, Photo: glenn koetzner seeking support from her Another barrier, said Andre, is that some Donnell Graves, a member of the Hispanic then spiritual leader, who “people’s families are not Black Gay Coalition. told the congregation in a accepting of their sexualsermon at Morning Star ity or gender expression,” going so far as to kick Baptist Church that “gays and lesbians will always family members out of the house. If that happens, be welcome” but that he could not “condone sameit only becomes more difficult for abuse victims sex marriage.” “to navigate [providers] systems,” he explained.

Jones-Jenkins’ abuse perpetrator was her then “When [victims of partner abuse] do access ser- same-sex spouse. “I certainly didn’t speak to the vices, they are placed outside the community and man who was my pastor because he didn’t want to family, further isolated in a mainstream program.” hear about it.”

Gary Daffin, executive director of the MulticulUltimately, Jones-Jenkins got help through the tural AIDS Coalition, focused on next steps.

Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project (www.

Not long into the discussion, however, several gmdvp.org). “They were able to do the one thing people gathered around the table voiced concerns I needed,” she said. “I needed an attorney because about language, objecting specifically to the use of [my] rights were being violated.” the wordqueer.

Still, it took a year before Jones-Jenkins had a “I take offense to the title queer,” one woman pro-bono lawyer and another three years in court said. “I’m from the old school and don’t like la- before the legal system granted a life-time restrainbels. I was born Karen Payne.Labeling is not a ing order against her perpetrator. good thing.”

Not only am I a “survivor,” she told the gatherRegina Jones-Jenkins, ing, but also “I am a thriva substance abuse and doer and nobody victimizes mestic-violence clinician, me anymore.” agreed. “I don’t want to Jones-Jenkins went on be called queer because to earn a master’s degree there is nothing wrong in counselingat Camwith me,” she said. bridge College where But others said they she wrote a thesis on the preferred queer and used effects of partner abuse it to reclaim a positive on African American lesmeaning of the word. bians and their children.

Jones-Jenkins went on Currently, she is a Walden to explain her experience University doctoral canas a lesbian “thriver” of didate in human services, Photo: glenn koetzner specializing in families’ domestic-partner abuse.

“I was in a dangerous sit- Regina Jones-Jenkins, a survivor turned studies and intervention. uation,” she said. “When “thriver” of same-sex partner abuse.

If there was one key you are a victim or when take-away point from the you are victimized, something happens to your roundtable discussion, it is the need for more perbrain.It’s not that immediate to say, ‘I’ve got to sonal story telling. run.’”

Corey Yarbrough, executive director of the Jones-Jenkins detailed her attempts five years Hispanic Black Gay Coalition (www.hbgc-bosago to access services, first at Fenway Health ton.org), spoke to the importance of narratives in through the Violence Recovery Program, or VRP. bridging gaps between black LGBT survivors and “I needed an advocate to go to court with me,” she service providers. said, but was told ‘[theVRP] doesn’t do that.’”

“Telling personal stories helps fight the stigma Kelcie Cooke, director of the Violence Recovery in the black community surrounding domestic Program (www.fenwayhealth.org), did not speak violence,” he told attendees. “To hear more stodirectly to Jones-Jenkins’ experience of contacting ries from survivors about the process they went Fenway for assistance, but pointed out, in a follow through and about their own cultural background up telephone interview, that legal advocacy is pro- — that would go a long way.” vided through the recovery program.

As Yarbrough explained further, “If you don’t see Jones-Jenkins next sought help through a main- people like you experiencing [domestic violence] stream service provider. For a short time, she at- or offering services, then you just assume this is an tended a victims’ workshop facilitated by Domestic issue that doesn’t affect your community.”

Violence Ended, or DOVE, Inc., but was asked to Hearing about people’s experience also helps in leave because “I was married to a woman” she said. making it “okay to seek services from people with “Some people were having difficulty grappling faces like the majority in this room,” Yarbrough addwith the fact that a woman could be an abuser.” ed, especially, “if it means that others are going to get And yet Jones-Jenkins said she was pleased to to the place whereRegina [Jones-Jenkins]is today.” hear that DOVE (www.doveinc.info) held a workSee Roundtable on page 10 shop last year that “finally included lesbians being

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 •

Boston City Councilor boycotts St. Pat’s Parade Food Bank CEO to be honored at Women’s Dinner and actions such as closing a Council meeting in By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter Felix Arroyo, a Boston City Councilor, has memory of Tyler Clementi, the Rutgers Univerannounced that he will not be participating in sity student who took his own life, to bring awarethe annual St. Patrick’s Day parade on March ness to anti-gay bullying.

Arroyo vows to have an event which welcomes 20, due to the continued exclusion of the GLBT the GLBT community on St. Patcommunity. rick’s Day every year as long as the “It was my way of standing in St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee solidarity with (gay) groups who are continues to exclude them. not allowed to march in that parade,” Arroyo is optimistic that the Arroyo explained to The Rainbow Parade Committee will eventuTimes. “If the parade committee ally allow gays and lesbians to wants to exclude groups, then I participate. don’t feel I should participate.”

“I don’t know how long it will Instead, Arroyo has organized an take, but I think that it will happen,” event for the GLBT community to Arroyo said. “I believe if the majorbe held the same day at the same ity of South Boston residents were time – 12 – 3 pm at Stella restaurant polled today, the overwhelming in the city’s South End. The hosts majority would be okay with GLBT include many notable gay political groups marching. The times are leaders, including Congressman changing, attitudes are changing.”

Barney Frank (D), Jarrett Barrios, Photo: Ernesto Arroyo Arroyo also planned to file a the Executive Director of GLAAD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against City Councilor Felix Arroyo resolution in support of transgender equality on March 9.

Defamation), State Rep. Liz Malia “As of right now, (transgender individuals) are (D), State Rep. Carl Sciortino (D), and allies of the community such as State Rep. Byron Rushing not part of the hate crime law,” Arroyo noted. “And (D). There will also be entertainment provided by we’re saying that if you commit a felony against someone who’s transgender,or if you make the GLBT performers.

“We’re going to have a good time,” Arroyo decision that you don’t want to hire somebody for being transgender or fire somebody who’s transsaid.

Arroyo has served as Chair of the Council’s gender, that should be considered a hate crime.

Committee that focuses on human rights and has This is a city that’s very progressive and a state been a voice for the GLBT community through that is very progressive and we don’t need to hold continued support of human rights initiatives on to those old vestiges of exclusion.”

facebook•fan page•therainbowtimesnews.com

Tisch ~ ‘88

Joanna ~ ‘92

Billie Jean ~ ‘94

Lakia ~ ‘96

Felicity ~ ‘97

Jona ~ ‘98

Sybilla ~ ‘99

Thirsty ~ ‘10

munications at Fenway Health. “She is a perfect By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter Catherine D’Amato, the President and CEO of choice for the Susan Love Award.”

“Women and single mothers make up a disproThe Greater Boston Food Bank, will be presented with the Dr. Susan M. Love Award at the 20th portionate number of people lacking access to both Women’s Dinner Party May 7 from 6 p.m. to 1 high quality and ample quantity of nutritious food.

Catherine’s work at the Food Bank a.m. at The Westin Copley Place. directly addresses this crisis and “This is certainly a very big honor, helps women and their children live but more importantly it recognizes healthier lives,” Finch added. the disproportionate impact hunger D’Amato assumed her leaderhas on women and children,” Cathship position at The Greater Boston erine D’Amato, president and CEO Food Bank in 1995 after heading of The Greater Boston Food Bank up the Food Bank of Western Massaid. “Providing healthy food helps sachusetts and, before that, the San to build healthy communities, and Francisco Food Bank. As a result of reduces the incidence of chronic disher stewardship, The Greater Boston eases among women and children.

Food Bank has been transformed Fenway Health and The Greater into a nearly $63 million charitable Boston Food Bank are devoted to business, an organization that now insuring that these vulnerable populeads the region in providing nutrilations have access to much needed tious food to approximately 550 nutritious food and support.”

The Love Award is given in honor Photo: greater boston food bank member hunger-relief organizations.

These agencies annually serve more of its founding recipient, Dr. Susan Boston Food Bank CEO, than 394,000 – and possibly as many M. Love, a pioneer in the fields of Catherine D’Amato as 545,000 – hungry residents of the women’s health and breast cancer.

Love helped found the Revlon/UCLA Breast Cen- nine counties and 190 cities and towns of eastern ter in 1992 and currently heads up the Dr. Susan Massachusetts. The Greater Boston Food Bank Love Research Foundation which is dedicated to distributes more than 34 million pounds of food and grocery products annually. eradicating breast cancer.

D’Amato currently serves on the board of direcThe Greater Boston Food Bank is New England’s largest hunger-relief organization. She has tors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, the been an advocate for the hungry for more than 25 Boston Foundation, the Massachusetts Food Asyears, working tirelessly to engage others in cor- sociation, and Basic Health International. porate and civic communities to support this imThis year marks the Women’s Dinner Party’s portant cause.

“Catherine D’Amato has been a longtime sup- 20th anniversary as an elegant fundraiser for Fenporter of Fenway Health and a champion for way Health. To find out more information about Women’s Health issues for decades,” said Philip the Women’s Dinner Party visit: www.womensdinFinch, Vice President of Development and Com- nerparty.org.

10 • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

Murder in Malden involves Same-Sex Couple commissioned by GMDVP found that 82% of the By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter Another apparent case of domestic violence has GLBT community felt domestic violence was a priclaimed another life, this time involving a same-sex ority for the community, yet only 24% could name a resource to help them if they were a victim. married couple.

The seriousness of the issue needs to be brought Forty-one-year-old Michael Losee is accused of murdering his husband, 55 year-old Brian Bergeron to the attention of domestic violence programs, the GLBT community, the police and othon the morning of March 9 in their er service providers, said Iain Gill, the home in Malden.

Director of Education and Outreach at Police found Bergeron’s body GMDVP. Gill noted there are ways to wrapped in a blue tarp in a small room determine whether or not a client is in off the dining area in the couple’s danger of losing their life to an abusive second-floor apartment on Clarendon spouse.

Street, according to court records.

“To identify high risk clients, we use Bergeron had been stabbed to death. a high risk assessment tool created to After allegedly telephoning a friend identify abusive relationships that are in Florida and confessing to the killlikely to end in serious harm or death,” ing, Losee was arrested the next day explained Gill. Sometimes, informing on Summer Street by South Station in Photo: boston herald a survivor of the risk involved in their Boston after agreeing to turn himself relationship is the first step.” in, records state. He was arraigned in Michael Losee The abuse faced by people in relaMalden District Court and was ordered held without bail by Malden District Court tionships can take on many forms.

“As in the case of Brian Bergeron, domestic vioJudge Lee Johnson.

A pre-trial conference for Losee is scheduled lence can end in fatal circumstances as a result of a for April 29, according to a spokeswoman for the violent act; but other times, domestic violence can be played out in more subtle ways, through the use Middlesex District Attorney’s Office.

“This appears to be a tragic incident of domes- of psychological, verbal, financial, cultural and/or tic violence, committed by the spouse of the vic- sexual abusive tactics by one person to gain control tim,” District Attorney Gerard Leone said. “We over another,” Gill continued. “Regardless of its are continuing to investigate the circumstances of manifestation, signs of domestic violence in GLBT this troubling homicide and are deeply saddened by relationships need to be responded to with serious what appears to be yet another domestic violence attention.”

Other pieces of advocating for high risk survivors homicide in Middlesex County.”

Boston-based Gay Men’s Domestic Violence might include providing medical information about Project (GMDVP) released a statement about the specific forms of abuse that can be common in high risk abusive relationships such as sexual abuse or murder.

“The circumstance of the murder has yet to be de- strangulation. Many survivors are not aware that they termined, but it is a stark reminder of the pervasive- can still die from strangulation up to 36 hours after ness of domestic violence within our society, includ- the initial incident and even after 36 hours, there still ing Gay, Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) exists a heightened risk of stroke, added Gill. relationships,” read the press release from GMDVP. If you have concerns about your relationship, According to GMDVP, 1 in 4 GLBT people experience domestic violence, the same rate as expe- GMDVP can provide you with support -- helping rienced by heterosexual women. The potential sup- you explore your situation, identify your options and port for GLBT survivors can be reduced by the lack make plans to stay safe. GMDVP can be reached of seriousness attributed to the issue. A 2010 survey through their 24/7 hotline at 800.832.1901.

Roundtable from page 8 Jones-Jenkins has remarried and is in a healthy relationship.

One participant suggested yet another way to build bridges between the black community and service providers—by reaching into the Mattapan and Dorchester neighborhoods of Boston where most LGBT black people live.

“Hire some people of color who know the community to do some serious outreach,” said Donnell Graves of the Hispanic Black Gay Coalition.

“They can be the middle ground between you and

the community.”

“You’re point is well taken,” said director Cooke, of Fenway Health’s VRP. Another point also struck a resonate chord among roundtable participants.“If someone is being victimized, it doesn’t matter what color they are,” said one man. “You figure out what they need and how to help.”

GMDVP provides information and support services in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, and can be reached through a 24/7-hotline telephone number: (800) 832-1901.

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • 11

It, Ze, They: What is the proper pronoun to use? Historic LGBT Health Study Released

photo: glenn koetzner

trans man

By: Tynan Power*/TRT Columnist t the Five College Queer Sexuality and Gender Conference held at Hampshire College on March 5th, I was handed a name tag with an extra space for my preferred pronoun.

While anyone can always choose to write in anything people need to know—whether it’s a preferred pronoun or favorite flavor of ice cream—making it standard for everyone at an event to select a pronoun is a nice touch. I wish I saw it more often outside of the Pioneer Valley’s LGBTQ microcosm.

Being asked about preferred pronouns makes me think a little harder about gender—my own and everyone else’s—and how we attempt to sum up such a complicated subject in such tiny words. Pronouns carry a heavy load in the English language. They indicate who is doing something and to whom, while signaling gender, number, and possession, among other things.

Pronouns are a “big deal” to most transgender people. For many, expressing a pronoun preference is a first step in coming out. Picking a new name can take much longer—there are so many to consider! Pronouns generally offer fewer choices.

There’s “he” if the person identifies as male and “she” if they identify as female. There’s always “it,” rarely chosen but often used by people who aren’t sure of someone’s gender and want to convey in no uncertain terms that their gender-variance makes them sub-human.

However, not every person identifies unequivo-

A

cally as male or female (or sub-human). The traditional gender paradigm makes pronoun choice easy. Did the doctor say “it’s a boy!” at your birth?

You’re a “he.” “It’s a girl!” means you’re a “she.”

Many transgender people fit into this polarized scheme comfortably—comfortable as men and women in a two-gender world, they’re happy to use the pronouns English attaches to those genders.

Yet plenty of people aren’t comfortable with two rigid choices. Some may be in the process of exploring their gender. Others may feel permanently and clearly “neither” or “both.” For some, gender feels flexible, ever-shifting. These people find themselves outside the gender binary, joining a centuries-old effort to find a gender-neutral pronoun that works in English—and that’s where things get interesting.

The most popular among FTM (female-to-male) and FTX (female-to-something-else) people in recent years has been “ze”—a constructed pronoun, conjured up for exactly this usage … and that’s the problem, as I see it. Constructed words don’t easily enter mainstream vocabulary unless they are developed for a new concept (such as “email” or “website”).

Yet at the conference, I noticed many people I’d expect to have written “ze” on their nametags had actually chosen the pronoun “they.” The singular “they” has always been my favorite gender-neutral pronoun. “They” is already part of the language and used every day, by everyone. Using “they” to mean a single person whose gender is not known or not disclosed is also common in colloquial usage.

Many a lesbian and gay man has stayed safely in the closet by referring to a lover as “they,” after all.

Most people don’t bat an eye at it. (I’ve used the singular “they” throughout this column and, unless you’re a writer or editor, you probably didn’t See Proper Pronoun on page 23

By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter A historic report on LGBT health was released on late last week.

The Committee on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Health Issues and Research Gaps and Opportunities at the Institute of Medicine (IOM) of The National Academies have written The Health of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender People: Building a Foundation for Better Understanding.

Two of the members of the IOM Committee are Judith B. Bradford, PhD, and Harvey J. Makadon, MD, of The Fenway Institute in Boston.

Bradford and Makadon hope the report will guide the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as they design and fund research projects aimed at documenting and addressing LGBT health disparities.

The IOM report acknowledges that LGBT people have unique health experiences and needs, but that as a country, we lack a good understanding of what these experiences and needs are. It also recommends steps to ensure that clinical researchers identify and address these needs.

The Committee on LGBT Health Issues and Research Gaps and Opportunities was formed a year ago in response to a request from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for guidance on researching LGBT health issues. The committee conducted an extensive review on the health status of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender populations in preparation for issuing their recommendations.

From the available research, the committee found that LGBT youth have an elevated risk for attempted suicide and depression, and sexual minority youth may have higher rates of substance use than heterosexual youth.

Another major problem to accessing quality health care for LGBT adults is a lack of providers who are knowledgeable about LGBT health needs as well as a fear of discrimination in health care settings.

“It was a great privilege to participate in the IOM process. At The Center for Population Research in LGBT

Health at The Fenway Institute, we are constantly trying to centralize and improve data on the health of LGBT US residents so that there is a better understanding of the health needs of our community,” said Bradford, who serves as the Director of the Center for Population Research in LGBT Health and Co-Chair of The Fenway Institute.

Bradford said there was a lack of information concerning certain subpopulations in the LGBT community.

“Most of what we know is about gay men and lesbians.

We know very little from scientific studies about bisexual men and women, with the exception of AIDS, and we know virtually nothing about transgender people,” Bradford explained.

The reasons why LGBT health needs haven’t been more effectively addressed are due to a number of factors, such as a lack of response from LGBTs to health surveys.

Bradford said the wording of the surveys has to be done in a way so members of the community will feel comfortable sharing private information about themselves with researchers.

“Scientifically, (the LGBT) community is a difficult population to study. You have to have measures that ask questions in a way that people will answer them,” Bradford said.

“It is incredibly gratifying to be part of the team that helped assemble this historic Institute of Medicine report,” added Makadon, the Director of Education and Training at The Fenway Institute. “This effort is clearly an important first step to creating an agenda that will advance the health of LGBT individuals. Aside from a research agenda, we must recognize the importance of educating health professionals about LGBT issues and creating welcoming environments for care. Studies show a reluctance to care for LGBT individuals and education about LGBT health issues in medical schools and schools for other health professionals is minimal.”

For a link to the report, go to www.fenwayhealth.org.

12 • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

Purging: An awful, painful ordeal a number of transwomen have to endure

trans opinion

By: Deja Nicole Greenlaw*/TRT Columnist urging. The Free Online Dictionary defines it as “1. a. To free from impurities; purify. b. To remove (impurities and other elements) by or as if by cleansing.”

If you have the chance to speak to a transwoman 30-years-old or older ask them (and some younger ones too!) about purging. No, it’s not the same purging as those folks with eating disorders do. The purging I am speaking of may happen when a transwoman is living a double life, one as male and the other as female, and has not yet fully transitioned to female. All of a sudden it is too much for her and the “What am I doing!!!” questions unmercifully confront her. She stops expressing female, throws out all of her female clothes and accessories and attempts to go back living only a male. During such a period, there is no cross-dressing, no associating with trans friends, no more going to support groups, just “returning” to the life that was male. The confusion, the exasperating times, the shame and the guilt often bunch up and lead to the need to “cleanse” and become “pure” again. It’s time to live like a man again! The sad thing is that most purging attempts are temporary and within a matter of a short period of time, the transwoman looks to rebuild her wardrobe and to reconnect with her trans friends. The pull to ex-

P

press female is far too great to deny. You are who you are and no denial will ever change that fact.

I was so deep in my closet that I never amassed any female clothes to purge. My purging episodes were comprised of throwing away copies of “The World Weekly News” or some earlier tabloids which often had a shocker story of a man who “turned into a woman” and began dating men. There would be before and after pictures and I would just look at them and dream. I would keep them under my bed and take them out to look at them and just feel amazed at the person’s transformation. Then the feeling of “What am I doing?” hit me and the shame and guilt set in and I would feel so bad about myself and I felt a great need to cleanse. I would tear up that story in the newspaper into a million little shreds and throw it away in the garbage cans in several different places so that no one would ever be able to “piece back together” the story and somehow trace it back to me. It would only be a couple of days, though, before I would be so sorry that I ripped up that story and a huge, shameful, guilty feeling came over me and made me feel like a person who was not normal. This was a vicious cycle and it was not going to stop. This was from early adulthood in the early ‘70s right through my straight, married life in the late ‘90s. This was not the first time that these purge feelings happened. It really started when I was in grade school and I used to make a new year’s resolution every single year to stop wearing female clothes. You see, this was

in the late 50s and continued through the 60s and there was no internet. There was no one to ask anything, no way to find out that I was not the “only weirdo in the world” who was a male and who wanted to be female. Oh, you could read about Christine Jorgenson, April AshDeja Nicole Greenlaw ley and Renee Richards but these folks were few and seemed like a million miles away. There was no one that I knew that was even remotely like me. I would scour psychology books and I would find phrases like “sexual deviate” to describe what I felt. I felt very alone and very different from everyone I knew. It was very distressing, especially to deal with these issues all by myself. I was too afraid to say anything to anybody.

Purging does give some sense of “normalcy” but it’s only for a short time. Then it’s time to face your demons again. They are not going away, ever.

I think that purging still goes on today but it is in less numbers as before just for the fact that there is so much more information available these days about being transgender. It’s not like the “old days” when there was hardly anything. Would-be transwomen today have that feeling of not being

The search for greater understanding, Part 2 (cont. from March) By: Lorelei Erisis*/TRT Columnist ast we convened here dear readers; I was living in Northampton for the first time around and speaking to you of my search for myself. Eventually however, I was driven out of Northampton by my innate wanderlust, my need for adventure (as well as one too many lectures on the word “history”) and the fact that the woman I was deeply in love with was moving to Boston to attend Emerson College.

I moved around quite a bit after that and travelled pretty extensively. I also began to find more information about transsexual and transgender people – media representations beyond “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” I read “Gender Outlaw” by Kate Bornstein and even saw her perform.

More and more though, I became convinced that if I was going to make it as an actor, I was going to have to commit to this “man” I had become, this character I had created to get by in the world. I retreated back into the closet. I was still pretty open about my gender flexibility, but I was going out less and getting dressed up alone more.

In Chicago I got married to a woman who was pretty accepting of my dressing up. But not so thrilled about the idea that I might like to actually “become” a woman myself. An idea I was only just beginning to admit to. That eventually ended for a number of reasons. Not least of which was that I was not the best husband in the world. I was patently not dealing with my gender issues and they were leaking out all over the place!

And, so finally I moved to LA. I threw out all my girl clothes and did the big “Purge” for the first

L

time in my life. I was going to be a “straight man” (doing comedy!) if it killed me. And it nearly did.

I would still talk about my gender issues if you asked me, or I got drunk enough. But mostly I tried to pretend they were a thing of the past.

And that was just about the moment when this guy I had become started to die. By now there was plenty of info to find on the internet if I could wade through all the porn. But I had stuffed that longago-little-girl down deep inside of me.

Much of the rest, you know already if you’re a regular reader of this column. Like an alcoholic, I hit the rock bottom of gender. I was depressed and self-destructive.

Then, at the bottom, I finally said, “F—k it!” I had come to understand after all these years what “transsexual” was. I had an inkling of what “transgender” meant. And I knew that was what I was.

I was a woman. A transsexual woman. And I was prepared to do whatever I had to let myself be the woman I always had been.

So, the question my friends, is not so much one of identities, but of our own understanding of ourselves.

This is why to outsiders it may appear that we are “switching” identities. Why Chaz Bono, if I may make such a presumption about someone else, seemed to “identify” as lesbian and then “switch” to “identify” as transgender. For myself, as well as for Chaz, there was never any “switching” there was simply the search for self-understanding.

As for the risk that we may “switch” back? Yes, that does happen. Usually the reason for someone deciding to de-transition has more to do with the extreme difficulties and outrageous prejudice transpeople encounter on an often daily basis; than it does with any crisis of “identity.”

A particularly well-known example would be Christine/ Mike Penner, who was a sports writer for the LA Times. When Christine/Mike decided to transition, she came out pretty publicly with a column in the LA Times entitled, “Old Mike, new Christine.” I won’t re-hash the very public details of Christine’s story, except to say that

a little over a year after she announced her transition and changed her byline to Christine, she decided to de-transition and her byline changed back to Mike.

Shortly thereafter, she took her own life.

I had the pleasure once of actually meeting Christine. She Lorelei Erisis seemed to me a pretty, smart and confident woman. In fact she was quite inspiring to meet at that point in the very early stages of my transition.

But despite the public face, she was apparently quite haunted. Transition is difficult enough, but to do it so publicly must have been magnitudes more difficult.

I have known others as well who simply couldn’t do it and so went back to living in their old genders.

We all too often find that transition can leave us disastrously unemployed, destitute and lonely. Our friends desert us. Our families won’t speak to us.

We are left alone and hungry, surrounded by storm clouds on all sides.

So sometimes transpeople choose to go back to being miserable, but employed. Repressed but welcomed.

And sometimes still, they simply choose to keep exploring.

So you ask how to be proactive about this question?

This is how. We tell our stories. We work for change. We educate and agitate.

So that just perhaps, some little kid getting all dressed up alone in their Mom’s room can open up Google and five minutes later, be reading this.

And maybe it won’t take them 30 years to find out who they are.

And that kid won’t have to worry about “switching back” because it will be okay for them to simply be themselves.

Slainte! *Lorelei Erisis, former Miss Trans New England, can be contacted at: loreleierisis@therainbowtimesmass.com.

totally isolated with their confusion like us, shall I say more mature, people felt. Still, I can almost hear daily somewhere in the wind my sisters crying and sobbing and being confused and ashamed and guilty and feeling like they have to purge. Like Kermit the frog says “It ain’t easy being green.”

One day about 5 years ago I was walking alone during my lunch time at work. I was walking on the side of the road when I saw two wigs lying on the ground. These were most likely thrown from a car. I wondered about the person who threw them and what the story was leading up to them being tossed from the car. Could it be a transwoman in a purging episode? I sensed a great discomfort with these wigs and their former owner. I was certain that this was an act of purging.

My purging days are behind me and I am so glad. You see, you stop purging and trying to “go back to being male” when you finally, fully accept yourself. When you do finally get to that wonderful point of acceptance all those bad thoughts and feelings disappear and they are replaced by an incredible peacefulness from within. I am so happy that I finally made it to this wonderful point of peace in my life and I truly hope that everyone can get to their own peace in their life. *Deja Nicole Greenlaw is a local transwoman who has 3 grown children and works at a local Fortune 500 company. She can be contacted at dejavudeja@sbcglobal.net.

Police Repression from page 2 the past and right here in Boston it goes on in known public sex environments and within im/ migrant LGBT communities and other LGBT communities of color. Queer (In)Justice explores the realities of policing; experience of queer people in courts; the role of incarceration of LGBT people; the creation of queer criminal archetypes including, “gleeful gay killers, lethal lesbians and deceptive gender benders.” The book is an important exploration of realities that any of us looking to authentically address queer life today need to better understand.

As Chuck Turner goes to prison and a “people’s commission” comes together to explore the gross injustices coming out of the U.S. Attorney’s Office we would do well to further investigate the role of the FBI in our queer liberation history. According to the FBI’s own documents, secured through the Freedom of Information Act, they were actively involved in surveilling the Gay Liberation Front, the Gay Activist Alliance, the Mattachine Society, and many other queer organizations from the 1950s to 1980s. The FBI intentionally played on the racial divisions between the GLF and the Black Panther Party to keep the organizations from uniting. Through the Counter Intelligence Program (COINTELPRO) the FBI targeted and dismantled the organizing efforts of militant Black revolutionaries, the (predominantly white) New Left, the women’s liberation movement, and gay liberation. As queer people we need to recognize the historical and contemporary attacks on our community by the government, especially the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office. It is imperative for our own survival that we ally ourselves with Chuck Turner and all those fighting back. As we join in the fight we need to heed the words of Aboriginal organizer, Lila Watson, “If you have come to help me, you are wasting your time.

But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.”

tweet!

twitter.com/therainbowtimes

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • 13

14 • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

GSA Network in the works for Massachusetts TRT Heroes: Robin McHaelen, a true survivor to act as if Massachusetts ends “at 495”—the Inter- passionately turning LGBT youth lives around By: Tynan Power/TRT Reporter Over forty people gathered in Cambridge this state beltway around Boston. Outreach and coordina-

care of ourselves and our physical well-being—to By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter Robin McHaelen is the founder and Executive be passionate. Follow your heart. Values are what Director of True Colors, a Connecticut non-profit lead the way. Using my values as a means of decidorganization, which works with other social service ing what I am going to do and how I am going to agencies, schools, organizations, and within com- act is probably the best advice I ever got.

TRT: What have you done munities to meet the needs of for the LGBT community insexual and gender minority dividually or collectively that youth. According to McHaelyou are proudest of? en, this year the True Colors RM: The True Colors ConferXVIII Conference brought ence, which is now the largest together over 3,200 youth, a LGBT youth conference in record attendance. It was also the country, started as a field historical in that it had “openwork project when I was geting remarks by Governor Malting my Master’s (degree) at loy, State Comptroller Kevin UCONN. We’re now in our Lembo (the first opening gay 18th year and we’ve literally man elected to statewide pubimpacted thousands of kids’ lic office in CT), Child Advocate Jeanne Milstein and CT photo: Glenn Koetzner lives. We created Connecticut’s first and only mentorState Senator Beth Bye” said Robin McHaelen ing program for queer youth.

McHaelen.

A lot of our kids are doing a True Colors trains organizes lot better than they would have if we the largest LGBT youth conference in hadn’t been here. It’s never been just the country and manages the state’s me ever. It’s always been me workonly LGBT mentoring program. ing with dedicated and passionate The Rainbow Times spoke with people who shared my vision for a McHaelen recently about her work world where people of all orientaon behalf of queer youth. tions and genders are valued.

TRT: What motivates your work The Rainbow Times: Which H people in the LGBT or allied commuHH H within this community?

H HHH RM: I had a really terrible adolescence. I nity have been most influential in your felt so alienated and so isolated and so alone. life?

Robin McHaelen: One was a professor at I was suicidal through most of my adolescence. the UCONN School of Social Work – his name Being gay at that time felt like the worst thing in was Manuel Magaz. He was a human rights and the world to me and I didn’t want other kids to go HIV/AIDS activist. He was an out Latino gay man through that. and he was the first person I ever saw come out TRT: What can be done about teen suicides publicly in a professional environment and it was that happen as a result of bullying or anti-gay very powerful and moving for me and really helped attitudes?

RM: There’s a really strong connection between inspire my own journey.

Another was John Bonelli – he was my first field bad home environments and bad school environwork instructor and was the first out (gay) man to ments and kids getting depressed (and hurting themselves). The two places where they spend run for public office in Connecticut.

TRT: How can the average member of the LGBT the most time – school and home – are the places where they are the least safe. We need to actively community make a difference?

RM: Number one, if you’re an adult and have the continue to work in the school system and with resources, you need to be out. The single most ef- families to make a difference for kids because befective form of prejudice reduction is face-to-face ing harassed over a long period of time leads to the interactions over a period of time. The number two level of despair that can push a kid into suicide or thing they can do is get active in a social issue that self-harm. impacts them. It doesn’t have to be an LGBT issue. TRT: Do you consider yourself a hero for the Being active in our own civil rights movement, by LGBT community? talking with their legislators and friends and family RM: No. The heroes are the kids who are coming out at 11 and 12 and 13 and negotiating a world about issues that impact us.

TRT: What is the best advice you have ever been that’s often hostile and sometimes supportive and given to do the proactive things you do today for they inspire me every day. There are trans kids coming out at 6 or 7 years old. I think those kids our community?

RM: As activists and advocates, we’ve got to take are the heroes.

TRT

HH H HHHH

H HH H HHHH

H HH H HHHH

heroes

As affordable as Internet Dating with the personal touch of a Matchmaker

H

March to begin charting a course towards a state-wide tion with central and western Massachusetts may not gay straight alliance (GSA) network. On March 18th, happen without an official network.

As if to underscore this challenge, there was a noCarolyn Laub, Executive Director of a Californiabased organization aptly called GSA Network, pre- ticeable lack of participation by students and advisors from western Massachusented to an audience that setts. While any number of included GSA members factors may have played a and advisors, state politirole, one was surely transcians, representatives of portation. Due to rigorous the Departments of Public school safety requirements Health (DPH) and Elemenfor transporting students, tary and Secondary Eduorganizing a trip to Camcation (DESE) and membridge is a time-intensive bers of the Massachusetts and expensive proposition Commission on GLBT for schools outside the Youth (MCGLBTY). The reach of Boston’s MassaCommission invited Laub chusetts Bay Transportaand Danielle Askini of the tion Authority (MBTA).

GSA Network to present photo: tynan power and lead a workshop aimed Members of MCGLBTY join with Carolyn Laub A GSA network could orat creating a GSA network (center) & Danielle Askini (right) of GSA Network. ganize and pay for things like transportation, Laub in Massachusetts.

“I’ve wanted to get [Laub] out here for years,” said pointed out.

The next step, Lipkin stressed, is up to the GSAs. Arthur Lipkin, Chair of MCGLBTY. Lipkin was certain that Laub’s experience and know-how would help Striving to avoid a top-down approach, the Commission wants to create the space and learning opportuniGSAs in Massachusetts organize their own network.

On March 19th, the group reconvened to explore the ties—such as bringing in consultants like Laub and need for a GSA network in Massachusetts. Attendees Askini—for Massachusetts GSAs to work together seemed to whole-heartedly agree that there is a need to create a network that will serve their unique needs. for a network. Currently, there is no official means for All agreed that youth involvement and leadership Massachusetts GSAs to share information or resources. will be a crucial component in the future network.

At the end of the day, almost all participants exSome GSA members and advisors communicate with other groups informally online. However, as one at- pressed enthusiasm for the work at hand. The Comtendee noted that many schools block social network- mission invites all GSA members and advisors to ing and email sites, which make informal networking get involved in planning the next steps. Accordmore difficult for students who live in rural commu- ing to a March 23rd report by MCGLBTY, a task nities with limited internet access. Another challenge See GSA Network on page 23 attendees noted is a tendency for Boston-based groups

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • 15

16 • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

Report finds increasing Catholic support for gay marriage equality, workplace rights, and more By: Chuck Colbert/TRT Reporter Catholic advocates for LGBT rights got a boost with the release of a new report showing the faithful are more supportive of gay rights than the general public and other Christian denominations. At the same time, the report points to a higher Catholic interest in civil unions, suggesting education may be key in convincing civil-unions backers to embrace full marriage equality.

“Catholics are at least five percentage points more supportive than the general population,” said Robert P. Jones, chief executive officer of the Public Religion Research Institute, referring to a range of public-policy, legal, and legislative issues, including same-sex marriage, workplace non-discrimination, open military service, and adoption rights for lesbian and gay couples.

Jones’s remarks came during a telephone press conference on Tuesday, March 22, when two panelists discussed report findings. The report, “Catholic Attitudes on Gay and Lesbian Issues,” is said to be the most comprehensive portrait to date on the topic. Some key findings from the study (www. publicreligion.org/research/?id=509) include: • “Nearly three-quarters of Catholics favor either allowing gay and lesbian people to marry (43 percent) or allowing them to form civil unions (31 percent). Only 22 percent of Catholics say there should be no legal recognition of a gay couple’s relationship.”

• “When same-sex marriage is defined explicitly as a civil marriage,” moreover, “support is dramatically higher among Catholics.” For example, “If marriage for gay couples is defined as a civil marriage ‘like you get in city hall,’ Catholic sup-

port for allowing gay couples to marry increases by 28 points, from 43 percent to 71 percent. A similar pattern exists in the general population, but the Catholic increase is more pronounced.”

• The report also showed strong Catholic support for other aspects of gay rights, with 73 percent supporting laws against workplace discrimination, 60 percent favoring gay adoptions, and 63 percent favoring openly gay military service.

• “A majority of Catholics (56 percent) believe that sexual relations between two adults of the same gender is not a sin.” By way of contrast, “among the general population, less than half (46 percent) believe it is not a sin.”

Altogether, attitudes among American Catholics contrast sharply with views of U.S. bishops who continually oppose LGBT equal rights. While church doctrine holds sexual relations between two people of the same gender as always sinful, pastoral teaching says “homosexual persons must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity.”

During the press conference, panelist and sociologist Michelle Dillon, she was not surprised by the report’s findings, even if the results contradict a popular stereotype of Catholics as traditionally conservative on social issues.

“The findings do fit with increased general patterns of support in the general US population as a whole for various aspects of gay rights, including same-sex marriage,” said Dr. Dillon, chair of the Sociology Department at the University of New Hampshire.

Queeries from page 2 root of the problem, which seems to be lack of trust and/or sexual indiscretion.

us wants a big “traditional” wedding and we are limited to a strict budget in any case. We have gotten the ball rolling and have started organizing everything that needs doing - registry office, hotel, suits, a photographer, etc. My main problem is my future mother-in-law – up to now I’ve always had a great relationship with her. Now she’s suddenly become a Bridezilla. She insists on being kept up to date on every little detail and wants regular briefings on our progress. She finds fault in everything we do too. (The hotel isn’t nice enough and the menu sounds awful for starters.)

She keeps asking us to give her jobs to do. I have tried appeasing her by giving her small tasks, but I’m running out of jobs to invent. I have spoken to my boyfriend about her but he doesn’t see it as a big deal. He thinks we should just ignore her.

But, I can’t!

A: If this weren’t so difficult for you, I’d have a big laugh about it, because Bridezilla mothersin-law are such a classic by now – straight brides (and grooms) have had to tolerate them since the beginning of time. Gay couples tend to encounter less of the kind of interference you’re describing if only because we usually cover the costs of our own nuptials (when our parents aren’t paying, they don’t get as much of vote) and we often partner later in life (when our folks have gotten used to us making our own decisions).

But, I now see that a mother-in-law is a motherin-law is a mother-in-law! Hello equality.

You’ve done everything that you can do; the idea of small tasks is brilliant. It’s now up to your boyfriend to take on his mother and set some limits – even if he doesn’t see her meddling as a big deal. He needs to do it for you – both for in terms of your wedding but also to establish the right boundaries with your MIL for the years to come.

You can tell him I said so!

“ My mother opposes gay marriage, but loves my husband”

Q: My husband and I have been together for over 20 years and were married last October. My mother has said she’s very happy and loves my husband. This week at dinner my mother said she was thrilled that “gay marriage was not legal everywhere.” Here’s the problem: My mother, and especially my stepfather, are rabid Republicans. I know they will continue to follow the Republicans again on this issue. Do I make a big deal about it?

Do I point out that they want to deny my husband and me a fundamental right?

A: Now, you understand that age-old adage cautioning people not to discuss politics (or religion) at dinner; it can give you indigestion! (or worse).

Since you say your mother loves your husband, I think there’s a strong disconnect for her between the personal and the political. What I suggest doing is sitting down with your mother (leave your stepdad out of this) the next time you’re together and explain how same-sex couples are discriminated against because we can’t marry.

Use concrete examples and make comparisons to their marriage. For instance, if your partner dies, explain that you’re not eligible for his Social Security benefits, but that your mother is when your stepfather passes. Sadly, you have about 1,100 federal benefits that are denied to gays and lesbians to choose from as your examples. A lot of straight folks have never thought of these inequities, but once pointed out; the inherent unfairness is often quite persuasive. If this doesn’t change your mom’s mind, then either agree to disagree or ask her to put a lid on it (but nicely because it’s your mother).

“This mother-in-law is a Bridezilla!”

Q: My boyfriend and I will be holding a civil partnership ceremony at the end of this year and have decided it will be a simple affair. Neither of

To continue reading this story, please visit us online at: www.therainbowtimesmass.com/2011/ 04072011/catholics.

*Steven Petrow is the author of the forthcoming book, Steven Petrow’s Complete Gay & Lesbian Manners, www.gaymanners.com. To ask him your personal question: ask@gaymanners.com.

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • 17

Celebrity Comedian Kate Clinton to kick off Northampton Pride Weekend Enter the Realm of Narnia! northampton, MA—Kate Clinton is de- online at www.OutForReel.org. lighted to be performing in Northampton for Noho In Kate Clinton’s new CD “Lady HAHA,” Pride Weekend and everyone is thrilled that she’s there is a clip of Clinton, in her own inimitable coming. Tickets are selling like crazy!” said Jaime style, talking about her “some sex relationship” as Michaels, executive producer and director for Out! gales of laughter burst from the audience. Clinton For Reel. Noho Pride and Out! For Reel, in their continues, “So I am lying in bed and ... (my girlfirst collaboration, will co-present Kate Clinton, a friend) is asleep behind me but all of a sudden I nationally renowned lesbian comedian and author feel her hand coming up my back. And then her of three books, on Friday, May 6, at 8 pm, at First hand comes over my waist and starts coming up Churches, 129 Main Street, my chest - whoa, excellent!

Northampton. The show But all of a sudden she turns will be ASL interpreted. over and turns on the televiThe V.I.P. reception, “Date sion. (I ask) ‘Uh? What hapWith Kate,” will be held at pened honey?’ And she said, the Hotel Northampton af‘I found the clicker.” ter the show for V.I.P. ticket Kate makes us laugh beholders. cause she talks about issues “Having a celebrity like and experiences we can all Kate Clinton come to town relate to and she makes these to do her new show and to issues hysterically funny. be one our Grand Marshals From relationship dynamis a fantastic way to celebrate ics to maddening politicians Noho Pride’s 30th Anniverto memory challenges, Kate sary,” said Bear White, direcoffers insights that just make tor of Noho Pride. Everyone you laugh out loud - reis invited to attend the upally, really hard,” Michaels scale “Celebrate Your Pride” said. Kate Clinton is a well After Party at Page’s Loft Photo: courtesy kate clinton sought after commentator Grand Ballroom, Clarion Kate Clinton has appeared on the Rachel Hotel, Northampton, 9 pm Maddow Show, Joy Behar - 12:30 am. “Page’s Loft knows that this party is Show, Good Morning America, Nightline, Enterthe official kickoff party to Pride and they are go- tainment Tonight, The Rosie O’Donnell Show, ing all out. They will be providing free hot hors The L Word, and numerous news and talk shows d’oeuvres and a beautiful display of food. With hot on Comedy Central, Lifetime, LOGO, Oxygen, dance music by DJ Lori B and a free dance lesson MSNBC, CNN, and C-Span. “The Smithsonian by dance instructor Emily Fox, this party is going should be checking out Kate - she is truly a nationto be fabulous and definitely a bargain at $5 with a al treasure,” Michaels said. Tony Kusner, Pulitzer Kate ticket,” said Michaels. Tickets are limited to Prize-winning playwright, Angels in America, de300 and people are encouraged to buy in advance scribes Clinton’s new show in this way: “What’s

so funny about being middle-aged, or the agonies and traumas of childhood? What’s funny about the Pope? Kate Clinton will tell you! Is it possible to be incredibly funny and at the same time political visionary? Kate Clinton will show you that it’s more than possible – by being both! ... (S)ieze any opportunity that comes your way to hear Kate Clinton.”

The Glee Party Tour,” Clinton’s 2011 show, is described by Clinton as “a rolling Restore-toSanity rally.” It is also a celebration of her 30th anniversary as a performer. “Noho Pride and Kate are both celebrating 30th anniversaries. It’s a fun coincidence and a perfect match,” White said.“Kate Clinton has held the mirror that reflects every single issue that has faced us for (over) 25 years. We’ve laughed with her, we’ve cried with her, and we’ve been changed by her,” said Kate Kendell, Executive Director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights.Tickets for Kate Clinton and the Celebrate Your Pride After Party are now on sale online at www.OutForReel.org.

“By far, the V.I.P. Package is the most popular option and the best deal. You get everything: V.I.P. reserved seating, V.I.P. ticket line, V.I.P. “Date With Kate” reception, and a ticket to the After Party. Tickets are limited for this package so I do encourage people to buy early,” Michaels said.”This collaboration of Noho Pride and Out! For Reel is a huge success already since it makes even more events possible in the LGBT community. It’s been wonderful working with Jaime and Out! For Reel on this show. This is what community is all about working together for the benefit of all,” White said.

For more information about Noho Pride and the weekend activities, visit www. NohoPride.org.

For more information about Out! For Reel, visit www.OutForReel.org.

A live performance by local theatre company, Greene Room Productions northampton, ma—Imagine a world of constant ice and snow, where centaurs, unicorns, and talking animals exist, and the threat of an evil witch’s powers is your reality. These are only a few of the magical creations from C.S. Lewis’s classic book, “The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe” being performed live at the Academy of Music Theatre in Northampton, MA May 5-7th & 12-14th (evening, weekend matinees, and mid-week matinees available).

Greene Room Productions: Theatre Production & Educational Outreach Inc., a theatre company from the Monson/Palmer area returns to Northampton to perform a riveting show for the whole family. This show in particular, will satisfy a craving for visual splendor. GRP artists and craftsmen have been working since January on the set and costumes for the show in order to create a brand new world of mystery and mystique. An ensemble of wood nymphs blend with the scenery in creatively composed costumes that are reminiscent of tree branches, vines, and undergrowth. They pop in and out of the show’s action changing the scenes and displaying an emotional side of the show through interpretive movement. GRP’s costume and set designer, Erin Greene (Monson) explained that the style of the show is based on a “Lord of the Rings” meets “The Lion King.” The animal costumes are made up of prosthetic faces, animal headdresses, and back-pack style masks that protrude in front of the evil characters. David Wallace (Monson), formerly seen at the Academy playing Hedwig, in GRP’s production of See Narnia on page 23

18 • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • 19

Ellen DeGeneres’ new gig, Charlize Theron bewitches, & Tom Hardy’s hot gay competition - Michael Fassbender

deep inside hollywood

By: Romeo San Vicente*/Special for TRT Ellen is going to Sing You Home Jodi Picoult’s new novel, Sing You Home, has a new (future) home: multiplexes. That’s because Ellen DeGeneres has obtained the rights to make it into a movie, which she’ll do as producer alongside gay Hollywood power players Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. The book, which debuted earlier this month in the No. 1 slot on the New York Times Bestseller List, is about a lesbian couple struggling to have a baby. It’s all still in the getting-to-know-you phase, so there’s no cast and no director and no script. But this isn’t Picoult’s first time having her work adapted for the screen. My Sister’s Keeper, starring Cameron Diaz and Abigail Breslin, also began life as a novel by Picoult.

One sticking point that Ellen might keep in mind: she’s still complaining about how that one turned out, accusing director Nick Cassavetes of, in her words, “lying to my face.” So tread lightly on that original material, Ms. DeG. When Evil Queens collide No, the story of Snow White isn’t specifically gay. But it does prominently feature an Evil Queen, which – as any gay man will tell you – are plentiful in the queer forest. So what’s better than one Evil Queen? How about two, clawing each other’s eyes out for box-office take? How about three? That’s

what’s going to happen when dueling live-action adaptations hit the big screen starting in 2012. There’s Snow White from director Tarsem Singh, which features Julia Roberts as the Evil Queen, The Social Network’s Armie Hammer as the Prince, and possibly Saoirse Ronan in the title role; and then there’s Universal’s Snow White and The Huntsman, set to star Kristen Stewart as Snow and Charlize Theron as the applebearing-witch/queen. Meanwhile, Disney has already been planning a live-action reboot of its classic titled Photo: Magnolia Pictures The Seven, to be set in 19th century Charlize Theron China and its dwarves reconceived as martial arts warriors/protectors of the cursed princess. One question: Who says creativity is dead in Hollywood? One more question: Is anyone in charge learning lessons from the failure of Red Riding Hood? Hope so.

Angels Crest turns Kate Walsh lesbian. Again.

Grey’s Anatomy/Private Practice star Kate Walsh has already portrayed lesbian characters in Under the Tuscan Sun and as a guest star on shows like the short-lived Karen Sisco. So she knows that, while plaid flannel isn’t as commonplace as the old-fashioned stereotypes would suggest, sometimes it has its place. And that place is Angels Crest, an indie drama about a small, working-class town whose residents are struggling to cope with the death of a 3-year-old child. (Think Rabbit Hole and Mystic River.) In the film Walsh plays an artist who, in the actors words, is “kind of gruff and no-nonsense.” (Hence, that plaid flannel shirt she’s wearing in a publicity still for the movie.) The film premieres at New York’s Tribeca Film Festival in

Here’s Johnny! Figure skater talks memoir, being ‘born this way’ and how the closet cost him a magazine cover By: Chris Azzopardi/Special for TRT At only 26, Johnny Weir’s done more than most people do in a lifetime. But the skater-turned-everything-else is known for being flamboyantly gay, which he publicly announced before the release of his memoir last year, just as much as he is for tearing up the ice, starring in a reality series, and even releasing a pop song, “Dirty Love.”

Weir, a three-time U.S. national champion, spoke to us recently about the media’s reaction to his not-so-shocking reveal, how “being gay isn’t a cause,” and the gay magazine that bumped him from the cover for being closeted.

gay-friendly cities?

JW: Wherever I go, the only anti-anything that I ever get is anti-fur. (Laughs) Since I’ve become quote-unquote Johnny Weir, people don’t really get upset with me about the gay thing because I live in a way that’s very unaggressive. I don’t make an issue about being gay and I don’t make an issue about the people I’m with being straight. It just is what it is.

I’ve performed all over the place – in China, in Russia – and I’ve never had a problem. So here in my own country I’m never that worried, because I have the experience of going to places that are pretty unfriendly to the gays.

CA: That Johnny Weir can go just about anywhere and not put up with Chris Azzopardi: So that any BS, that’s progress. book cover, Johnny – how heavy JW: Yes – that I can go somewhere was the disco ball?

Photo: courtesy johnny weiri and sell a book with me lying on my Johnny Weir: (Laughs) The back with high heels holding up a disco ball was hanging off the ceil- Johnny Weir disco ball and bright pink all around ing so I didn’t actually have to lift it. me and nobody bats an eyelash, There had to be a flatbed truck to bring the disco ball in, and so there was an issue getting the disco that’s definitely some kind of progress.

CA: What did you learn about yourself while writball through the street because it was so big. ing Welcome to My World?

CA: Oh, so it wasn’t Photoshopped?

JW: Oh, no. I laid on my back under the disco ball JW: It wasn’t so much what I learned about myself, because I never forget where I come from. But for hours that day.

I realized a lot about my childhood as I was writing CA: How was your first book tour?

JW: People came out in droves to support me and this book. the book. We did New York and then my home- CA: Are you surprised by all the attention you betown in Amish country Pennsylvania; then I started ing gay has received? to hit some of the places where my book probably JW: I am, actually. I mean, honestly, it shouldn’t wouldn’t sell as well as it would in other places of be a shock to anyone. I was in Russia, and then the U.S. I was exhausted and very cranky by the about a week after the New Year I was performing end of the tour, but I was very excited that I actu- there and, on one of my last days of the trip, ... ally had time to get the word out that I had a book.

To continue this story, please visit us online at: CA: What was it like stopping in some of the less www.therainbowtimesmass.com/2011/04072011/johnny.

late April with an arthouse release slated for later. It also stars Thomas Dekker, Mira Sorvino, Elizabeth McGovern and Jeremy Piven, who knows his way around working with lesbians from his days on Ellen.

Carey Mulligan and Michael Fassbender feel Shame If Inception co-star Tom Hardy has any competition in the Hot Brit Gay Crush Olympics right now, it’s Michael Fassbender (Jane Eyre, Inglourious Basterds). And Fassbender, along with An Education Oscar nominee Carey Mulligan, is about to appear in the next film from up-and-

coming director Steve McQueen (note to readers: that would be the U.K. art star, not the late American action film star – same name, different guys).

Titled Shame, it’s about a man facing his own sex addiction – details on the gender object(s) of his habit are currently unavailable – and how his sister reacts to that struggle. The film follows McQueen’s acclaimed feature debut, Hunger, and a decidedly gay-ish short called Bear that consisted of two men wrestling. And no, in spite of that subject matter, McQueen himself isn’t gay. Confused yet? Maybe its 2012 release will clear things up. *Romeo San Vicente is all for watching bears wrestle. He can be reached care of this publication or at DeepInsideHollywood@qsyndicate.com.

20 • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

Gay Marriage in Rhode Island gains support from Congressman James Langevin By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter Same-sex marriage advocates got a major boost when Rhode Island Congressman James Langevin (D) announced on March 5 that he now supports allowing gay and lesbian couples to wed.

Langevin, a staunch Catholic who holds conservative positions on social issues including abortion, had voiced his support for civil unions only. However, Langevin has now had a change of

ri news

tion while delivering his Inaugural address.

“As the General Assembly considers this important topic, I ask lawmakers and all Rhode Islanders to honor our state’s founding principles of tolerance and freedom and to support marriage equality in our state. It’s time to do the right thing,” Langevin said.

On Thursday, the Senate Judiciary Committee will hear testimony pertaining to 5 bills - 2011S 0029 – Sponsored by Sen. Rhoda E. Perry (D-Providence), this bill removes gender-specific language from the heart. section of the general laws that “Three years ago, I attended the governs eligibility for marriage and commitment ceremony of a longinserts language that allows any time staff member and his partner person to marry any other eligible of nine years,” Langevin said in his person, regardless of gender. statement. “Before their friends and Another bill, sponsored by Sen. family, they professed their love, Frank A. Ciccone III (D-, Provicommitment and respect for each dence, North Providence), would other. Their sentiments were just put a question on the ballot asking as moving, heartfelt and sincere voters to approve a constitutional as any of the vows I had heard at amendment that would define marother weddings, yet I realized that riage as being between one man their union would not be treated the and one woman, but allow the recsame under the law. That difference ognition of civil unions for samestruck me as fundamentally unjust, Photo: james langevin sex couples. and I began to challenge the wis- Congressman Langevin A third bill, sponsored by Sen. dom of creating separate categories John Tassoni Jr. (D- Smithfield, of rights for certain groups of citizens. I began to North Smithfield), would put a question on the see that civil unions fell short of the equality I beballot asking voters to amend the state constitulieved that same-sex couples deserved.” tion to say that only marriage between a man and The Ocean State could become the latest state a woman will be valid or recognized in Rhode to pass a same-sex marriage bill. A vote on the Island. bill by the House Judiciary Committee may occur A bill sponsored by Sen. Dawson Hodgson (Rthis week, according to openly gay House Speaker North Kingstown, East Greenwich, Warwick), Gordon Fox (D-Providence), who supports the would allow domestic unions, with stipulations legislation. that religious institutions do not have to recognize Governor Lincoln Chafee (I) supports same-sex or perform them and that no person or small busimarriage and urged lawmakers to pass the legisla-

top 10 best seller videos Courtesy: wolfevideo.com

Lesbian Top 10 1. Elena Undone 2. A Marine Story 3. Bloomington 4. Room in Rome 5. Black Swan 6. The Four-Faced Liar 7. The Kids Are All Right 8. My Normal 9. The New World 10. Who Took the Bomp?

Le Tigre on Tour

Gay Top 10 1. Undertow (Contracorriente) 2. I Love You Phillip Morris 3. Role/Play 4. Glee Encore 5. Children of God 6. Plan B 7. Vampire Boys 8. David’s Birthday 9. Kaboom 10. Howl

ness be forced to provide services to assist in the solemnization or celebration of one if it violates his or her religious beliefs.

A bill sponsored by Sen. Louis DiPalma (DMiddletown, Little Compton, Newport, Tiverton), would create “reciprocal beneficiary agreements” to allow two unmarried people ineligible for marriage to obtain certain rights and responsibilities.

Opponents of same-sex marriage, including the Roman Catholic Church and the National Organi-

zation for Marriage (NOM), have voiced their opposition in the media. NOM has run television and radio commercials encouraging voters to contact their legislators and urge them to put the issue on a ballot, while claiming as many as 80 percent of the population wants to vote on same-sex marriage.

To continue this story, please visit us online at: www.therainbowtimesmass.com/2011/ 04072011/ langevin.

AIDS Project RI names new Executive Director based on data” and utilizes public health theory By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter Tom Bertrand has been named as the new Ex- and community input in the creation of programs. ecutive Director of AIDS Project Rhode Island. He has always had an interest in preventing comBertrand fills the position held by Stephen Houra- municable diseases and working with the commuhan, who is now working for Governor Lincoln nities affected most by HIV/AIDS. In 2008, APRI, which is based in Providence, Chafee as a Senior Advisor.

Bertrand, who has worked 20 years in public merged with Family Service of RI. Bertrand feels health, comes to the job from the Massachusetts the partnership has benefited the organization.

“We are well positioned for Department of Public Health, where the future,” Bertrand said, adding he spent six years as director of the that APRI has a “strong” relationDivision of Sexually Transmitted ship with rival agency AIDS Care Disease Prevention and HIV/AIDS Ocean State.

Surveillance, and most recently as Although the state’s AIDS serprogram director for the Division vice organizations have struggled of Emergency Medicine Research with cutbacks in funding, Bertrand at the University of Massachusetts notes that APRI will be able to Medical School. maintain the same level of services Bertrand plans to focus on case for its clients. APRI serves 250 climanagement, in addition to beefents right now. ing up APRI’s prevention efforts, “We’re on very good footing and to strengthen relationships with right now,” Bertrand said. community members and state Bertrand doesn’t feel the gay government departments. community has grown complaBertrand is a former assistant diPhoto: joe siegel cent as the AIDS epidemic enters vision director of the Rhode Island its fourth decade. He notes there Department of Health’s Division Tom Bertrand are “gaps in information and eduof Disease Control and Prevention, and former chief administrator of the state’s Of- cation”, which are largely generational. Men in fice of Communicable Disease. On a national lev- their 20 and 30s have different perspectives on el, Bertrand has held leadership positions on the AIDS than gay men in their 50s and 60s. Bertrand board of the National Coalition of STD Directors. would like to conduct a community-based needs “In my capacity as STD Director for Mass., I assessment.

One of Bertrand’s first projects is the upcoming developed and managed many programs to prevent and control the spread of syphilis,” Bertrand Dining Out for Life event on Thursday, April 28. explained. “About 90% of the syphilis cases were 45 participating restaurants from across the state in gay men, and of them 50% were co-infected will be donating a portion of their proceeds to with HIV. In collaboration with (Boston’s) Fen- AIDS Project RI. APRI is seeking volunteers to way Community Health, I made great strides in serve as Table Captains and Ambassadors.

Another popular fundraising event is Gay Binestablishing a website to promote HIV/STD testing among gay men, improving partner services go, which is held once a month at Riviera Bingo using the Internet, and developing sexual health Palace in Cranston. The event is hosted by the popular drag queen Miss Kitty Litter. fact sheets for gay/bi-sexual men.”

Founded in 1985 by a small group of doctors, His degrees include a master’s in Public Health in Epidemiology from the State University of New nurses and community activists, AIDS Project RI York, Albany, and an undergraduate degree in bi- was the state’s first AIDS service organization. ology from Vassar College.

For more info, go to www.aidsprojectri.org.

Bertrand explains that he makes “decisions

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • 21

22 • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com

To Cook is To Love: A Foodies Journal White House Conference on Bullying has sun per day (outdoors – in the yard, in containers or in a window box, indoors – on a sunny windowsill).

The hardest part is waiting until your plants are big enough to begin harvesting – cutting your herbs encourages their growth, but remove only about a third of the plant at a time. And, don’t worry if you’ve never done it before – it doesn’t cost much to get started and there’s lots of advice for the beginner herb gardener on the internet.

The rewards are worth the time and energy required. Herbs thrill our senses and benefit us body and soul. Herbs are beautiful to look at growing in their pots and garnishing our plates. They make everything they touch taste better and they are delightfully aromatic. Herbs are also powerful natural medicines containing anti-oxidants, essential oils, vitamins, and other nutrients that help our bodies fight germs and eliminate toxins and they bolster our immune system.

Umm-uh! I can almost taste the fettuccini tossed with fresh basil pesto sauce and that minty mojito now, can’t you?

Until next time – ¡Mucho Gusto!, ¡Muchas Gracias! y ¡Buen Provecho!

UMass Policy from page 3 system-wide policy. Beemyn believes the 2009 change at UMass Amherst has helped make that campus more welcoming of transgender students and staff.

“It certainly has assisted us, in terms of being listened to a bit more when we say that that policies or practices need to be changed to

be more trans-supportive and trans-inclusive.

Now, when I can point to the discrimination policy, I think it bolsters our case.”

M

photo: rachel power

¡mucho gusto!

By: John Verlinden/TRT Cuisine Columnist eet my friend, Herb!

Spring is in the air … mixed with freezing rain and occasional flurries.

Springtime in New England can be elusive – here today, gone tomorrow, but it really is coming, really! Spring is awesome – warm weather, flowering trees, green sprouts appearing everywhere, and then there’s also the bare chests and hot pants. After a long, hard winter, nothing rejuvenates and restores us like getting outside, watching nature’s transformation and then getting our hands dirty digging in the soil.

As a chef, one of the things I appreciate most is that all my herb friends are back in town and will soon be ready to jazz up summer salads, yummy pastas, grilled meats, smoked fish and cool desserts. Growing your own herbs (don’t worry, Mom, I’m talking about the legal ones) is great way to celebrate the new season. Easy to grow; they’ll do fine just about anywhere they can get 8 hours or so of

*Have questions? Need a recipe? Want to suggest a topic? Contact me: john@muchogusto.com or www.muchogusto.com.

You can read the full University of Massachusetts Statement of Affirmative Action And Equal Opportunity on line at: http:// media.umassp.edu/massedu/policy/PersonnelAffirmAct.pd

ties to Springfield in Walker-Hoover tragedy

By convening the first-ever White House ConBy: Kevin Jennings/Special for TRT ference on Bullying and hosting it personally in the For Carl Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover was a sixth grader East Room of the White House, the President and in the Springfield (Mass.) Schools in the 2008- the First Lady made the strongest statement pos2009 school year. School was an awful place for sible that they believe the moment for bullying to Carl, a place where he was relentlessly bullied as end has arrived and that they are putting themselves “gay” by his peers because he was a good student and our entire Administration on the front lines of who dressed neatly and didn’t fit the gender stereo- this fight. From the first remarks made by President type assigned to him as an African-American male. and Mrs. Obama through the closing remarks by On April 6, 2009, Carl decided he couldn’t take it Secretary of Health & Human Services Kathleen Sebelius and Secretary of Education anymore and hung himself.

Arne Duncan, anti-LGBT bullying Carl was eleven years old when he was specifically and frequently called decided he’d rather die than go back out as unacceptable. As someone to school. who spent more than two decades On March 10, 2011, I sat in the fighting this battle before I joined Blue Room of the White House and this Administration, I watched in awe watched Carl’s Mom, Sirdenear as the combined leadership of the Walker, tell her son’s story to PresiObama Presidency sent a clear and dent and Mrs. Obama right before unequivocal message: we can’t wait the start of the first-ever White House for it to get better for LGBT kids – we Conference on Bullying. The moment need to make it better right now.

I will never forget was when Mrs. This high profile event was not Walker pulled out her son’s 8x11 a one-shot deal for the Obama adschool photo and handed it to Mrs. Obama. Looking both stricken and Photo: dept. of education ministration. Our work against bullying began in 2009, when a moved, the First Lady grasped the Kevin Jennings six agency Federal Partners in Bulpicture, looked at intently, and then lying Prevention work group was wrapped Mrs. Walker in a tight embrace. At that moment, I thought that perhaps something good convened to tackle this problem. The Partners could come out of Mrs. Walker’s loss, that per- staged the first-ever federal Bullying Summit haps her son did not die in vain, that perhaps Mrs. in August 2010, long before the national media Walker’s courage in speaking out about the greatest frenzy that accompanied the tragic suicides of nightmare that could befall any mother might help young people like Tyler Clementi in the fall of bring us to a tipping point where bullying becomes 2010. The work group continues it efforts today, simply unacceptable in America’s schools.

To continue this story, please visit us online at: If that happens, I believe March 10, 2011 will go www.therainbowtimesmass.com/2011/04072011/carl. down in history as the date when the tide turned.

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • 23

Primavera, época nueva y de renacimiento para la felicidad The OutField: Three boys’ gay high school blog

GSA Network from page 14 force is being formed. All interested parties are invited to attend the next meeting on April 6th, at 4pm. The meeting will be held at the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (75 Pleasant Street) in Malden, MA.

DADT Discharge from page 3 Altogether, 14,316 military personnel have been discharged under the policy, according to the organization’s unofficial count, which included the National Guard.

And yet, Nicholson said, “Despite this law clearly being on its deathbed at the time, 261 more careers were terminated and 261 more lives were abruptly turned upside down because of this policy.”

In a press release, Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of Servicemembers Legal Defense Fund, spoke to the need to quicken the repeal process. “These numbers underscore the need to accelerate the timeline for training and repeal. The reality is that investigations continue and service members are still in danger of being discharged. We look forward to certification by Secretary Gates, Chairman Mullen, and the president as we move toward full repeal. Until we achieve full equality for all LGBT service members, the job is not done.”

During a lame-duck session of Congress, a bi-partisan majority of lawmakers voted to repeal “don’t ask, don’t tell,” and President Obama signed the legislation into law on December 22.

But before the ban is lifted, Obama, Gates and Mullen must certify that openly gay service will not undermine military readiness and effectiveness, unit cohesion, and recruiting and retention of the armed forces.

The various military branches are currently training their forces in order to implement the policy change. Gates has said he will not recommend certification until training for repeal is implemented throughout the service branches.

After certification, a 60-day congressional review period is also required before “don’t ask, don’t tell” is finally repealed.

photo: Eric Hess

Y

For more information and to be added to the GSA Network Task Force contact list, email Alison.Bourke@state.ma.us.

Proper Pronoun from page 11 notice.) What’s more, English has already survived one pronoun shifting from plural to singular: the formerly plural-only “you.”

Singular “they” offers a great, viable option for people who don’t feel comfortable with “he” or “she.” Plus, it gives trans people who have made a complicated peace with binary gender another option to consider. It’s an option that says that no matter how “male” or “female” someone looks, they may not entirely buy the gender binary and the sexism tied up in it.

In case you’re wondering, I wrote “he” on my nametag. I first uttered that I’d rather be called “he” when I was 6 years old and I was 30 before I won that battle. It’s not something I’d cede easily. Yet I’m still thinking about that space for my preferred pronoun—and that’s perhaps the best outcome of a thought-provoking conference.

Do you have questions, comments or ideas about the FTM experience? Email Ty at tynanpower@yahoo.com. *Tynan Power is a parent, a writer, a progressive Muslim leader, an interfaith organizer, a (very slow) runner, mostly a big goof, sometimes taken too seriously, loving, gentle, queer and queer-cultured, a pen geek, often dehydrated, full of wanderlust. He also happens to be a transgender man.

By: Dan Woog* /Special for TRT

F

or a high school athlete who was so terrified of being gay he contemplated suicide, coming out was huge.

But Robert Scott did it – and, within a couple of months, he was blogging nationally about his life.

Welcome to the gay youth world, 2011-style.

At 14, Robert felt cursed by his feelings for guys. He identified as a jock; he played football, basketball and soccer, and ran track and cross country. There was no way, he told himself, an athlete could be gay. For three years he wrestled with his demons.

At 17, he met Ben Newcomer and Brad Usselman through TheGYC.com, a gay teen site. They too were athletes – soccer and track – and though all three lived in different parts of the country, they soon became good friends. Robert, who lives in Memphis, even met Ben at a soccer tournament in North Carolina.

Brad had an idea: starting a blog. There was nothing online specifically for young athletes struggling with their sexuality. He contacted Jim Buzinski, co-founder of the OutSports.com website. Jim understood the importance of the teens’ idea and provided important help, from organization to grammar.

One goal, Brad said, was to “change people’s perceptions that openly gay athletes would be ostracized from their sports team.” Another was to “build a grass-roots movement with my generation” aimed at gaining equality.

q sports

físico, mental y/o sexual. En esta época, edúquese al respecto y si está en una relación de esta índole – llame y busque ayuda en La Red/The Network, el cuartel de la policia más cercano o al Proyecto de Violencia Domestica para Hombres Gay. ¡Es importante que comience esta época de forma positiva! Y si no está en esta situación, ayude al prójimo y/o a su amigo/a que quizás esté en esta situación.

Otro tema que nos debe interesar es el de derechos para nuestro/as hermano/as transgéneros.

Esto nos afecta a todo/as y no sólo a la comunidad transgénero. Nuestra comunidad debe mantenerse unida y eso signifca los G, las L, lo/as B y lo/as T. Vamos a ser contados/as como una comunidad unida y colorida.

Durante este mes, tomen conciencia de ustedes mismos y de sus sentimientos. Recuerden que como la frase dice, lo que ustedes le dan a la vida, la vida les dará a ustedes. Karma. Celebren la vida en este mes y sean alegres con lo que tienen y hagan. No hay que gastar dinero para tener felicidad o para desarrollar una relación. Sólo tiene que reconocer cuando es feliz y de esos momentos el amor por la vida crecerá. En esta época de renacimiento ponga sus energías en amar a sus seres queridos, en reírse más y en pasar más tiempo hablando positivamente. Trate de ver las cosas auténticas que la vida le provee y gócelas.

En este período, entendamos el mensaje de “Easter” y veamos como en esta época tan colorida podemos “colorear” nuestras almas y pensamientos con cosas lindas y positivas. Cada persona tiene la oportunidad de sentir felicidad en sus vidas. ¡Cante por la felicidad y como dice la canción, siga buscando esa parte que lo/la haga sentir lleno/ a y ¡“busque su paraíso”! *Escrito por Wilfred Labiosa, activista y trabajador social en el area de Massachusetts.

latin vision

Por: Wilfred W. Labiosa*/Columnista de TRT a tuvimos que mover los relojes una hora mas tarde, la nieve se derritió y ahora esperamos el Día de Pascuas floridas (conocido en ingles como “Easter”) y el día del Maratón de Boston que señala oficialmente que la primavera arribó.

Siempre espero con ansias la primavera ya que es una época tan bonita y tan colorida. Durante esta estación del año las personas arreglan sus patios, comienza el olor a barbacoas y todo el mundo comienza a sentirse mejor ya que no tenemos que arroparnos tanto con bufandas y chaquetas de invierno. La comunidad LGBT también se siente ansiosa ya que comienzan los festivales de Orgullo a traves de la nacion norteamericana e internacionalmente.

Muchas actividades han de pasar pronto y anhelo éstas tanto ya que son importantes para mi y espero que tambien para todo/as ustedes. Recuerden que “en la unidad esta la fuerza” y que todo/as debemos ser contados para que “ello/as” sepan que estamos aquí. Es importante que nos eduquemos en los temas que nos están afectando como comunidad. Tome un momento para que en esta época pueda sentir un renacimiento de ideas.

Por ejemplo, ¿supieron de la muerte de uno de nuestra comunidad gay durante una situación de violencia domestica, el mes pasado? ¿No? Bueno el problema de violencia doméstica existe y nos afecta a todo/as por igual. Las relaciones con violencia domestica pueden conllevar al maltrato

Narnia from page 17 “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” is now adding to his eclectic repertoire of roles by playing yet another strange character, Fenris Ulf (a wolf), Captain of the evil Witch’s army.

“I love a challenge. Capturing the essence of a wild animal and making it real for the audience has been tough. I’ll get it though. Come and see.” An all-star group of local kids including Tim Chavez (Monson, playing Peter, the oldest brother), Holly Cote (Monson, playing Susan, second in command), Normand Caissie (Ludlow, playing Edmund the betrayer), and Emma Henderson (South Hadley, playing the youngest sibling) make up the heroes and heroines of the story. This dynamic cast consists of talented children, and adults ranging in age from 10-72 from Wales, E. Brookfield, Monson, Amherst, South Hadley, Ludlow, Springfield, Palmer, Hampden, and Holyoke. Everyone from the actors to the designers, builders, and production crew is extremely proud to be a part of this theatrical fantasy spectacle and excited

Personals: Are you a good guy? I think I am too. I live in Worcester, I am 46, a Gemini - many interests. I would enjoy meeting a sincere, genuine, down-to-earth man for friendship/dating. Looking for more than sex. Thanks!

Call Gary @ 774-641-1935.

Referring to gay athletes, Ben added, “Gay people who fit in shouldn’t feel like they have to just because they can.”

The blog – called “Walk the Road,” referring to young people exploring their sexuality together (http://bradrobertben.wordpress.com) – drew nearly instant feedback. A closeted Mississippi State fraternity member told his own agonizing tale, and concluded: “Many Southerners see the typical gay guy as one who runs around in high heels dressed in makeup. However, I can see from you and also myself, we are further from that image than one can be.”

A college swimmer emailed the three, and they posted his story. He explained that he is still in the closet because he believes others will define him solely by his sexuality, even though that’s only one part of who he is.

That’s exactly the message Robert, Ben and Brad impart. They blog about music, school and their sports teams. They write poetry and upload videos. Sometimes – not always – they post stories about their own experiences as gay teens, or pass along emails that other gay jocks have sent.

Publicity on OutSports led to a surge of interest.

Olympians, college athletes and people of all ages – sports fanatics, and those who only wished they could play – contacted the trio.

Gareth Bale – a 22-year-old Welshman who plays for Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League, and a rising international soccer star – sent an encouraging word. “His shout-out really boosted our spirits,” says Robert.

Still, when the blog began Robert was not out to his parents. “I was afraid the people around me would judge me if they ever found out,” he recalls.

His parents did soon find out – ...

To continue this story, please visit us online at: www.therainbowtimesmass.com/2011/04072011/qsports. to begin their tour to Northampton.

For those who enjoy interpreting, “The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe” was based loosely on parts of the bible. Not only is the show visually stimulating but the story is a fine piece of brain candy to sink your teeth into. Come and celebrate this theatric and literary adventure. Experience the magic first hand. Thanks to the Northampton Cultural Council there are two awesome promotional tickets packages for free and highly discounted tickets being offered to schools and educational organizations. To find out more about GRP’s “Must-See” reading program or the GRP B.O.G.O. program call (413)668-7284.

Participants must register. For all other tickets questions please call (413)584-9032 x105 for the Academy of Music Box Office or visit www.academyofmusictheatre.com For more information about Greene Room Productions please visit www.greeneroomproductions.com.

TRT Heroes Know someone

who works for the LGBT community and who gives endlessly and selflessly to everyone?

Nominate them to be our next TRT Hero!

Please send your nominations to: editor@therainbowtimesnews.com

24 • April 7, 2011 - May 4, 2011 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com