The Rainbow Times' June, 2015 Issue

2 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

Pocket-size NE Pride Guide & Map; farewell to Lauren Faith, Family, and God: Jeb Bush gets it wrong on marriage By: Nicole Lashomb*/ TRT Editor-in-Chief

T

OPINIONS

he Rainbow Times again this year had the privilege to produce not one, but two Pride Projects for you—the New England Pride Guide & New England Pride Map. We would like to thank the 70+ advertisers that supported these pride projects, which allowed us to continue to work for you, on your behalf.

I cannot begin to underscore the importance of our clients and what they mean to us. Without them, we would not be able to serve you, which is our utmost commitment.

Since the beginning, The Rainbow Times has gradually expanded its distribution of the newsmagazine and all of the special projects that we produce. Now, we are proud to have the widest distribution not only in the greater Boston region, but also throughout New England, with more than 1,500 points of pick up, including subscriptions sent throughout the country. This year, our pride projects, the New England Pride Guide and New England Pride Map are expected to reach approximately 250,000 from June-September. The map distribution began in early May. The Guide will be in this issue of TRT and separately at all Pride events covered by our team this Pride season.

Both of these pieces were designed with portability in mind. In past years, we’ve produced full-size magazines, but based on years of feedback from you about this piece, we learned that many of you do not want to carry around a bulky magazine that may get in the way of your festivities and that you would rather be re-directed to the information that you need instantly on your smart phone or tablet. Based on this feedback, we decided to produce a versatile New England Pride Guide, publishing critical information and stories, complete with QR codes that will redirect you to the information that most interests you right from your device.

This mini-magazine is made to fit into your back pocket. The New England Pride Map is a glossy pocket-sized piece that depicts critical information for Pride parades and specific events happening during prides throughout the region, also complete with QR codes. If you don’t have a QR reader on your phone or table yet, they can be downloaded from your device’s app store/marketplace. For us, these pieces are about user ability on the go. After all, it is Pride season, and the beginning of the summer. Who isn’t on the go?

Additionally, all projects are accessible from our website (www.therainbowtimesmass.com) and our secondary publishing site, Issuu. All links are active, allowing you to click through the project links and sending you to the information of most interest.

Additionally, each and every advertisement is linked as well. If a particular ad is of interest, check out our advertisers’ websites by simply clicking on their ad. This year is all about accessibility.

Last year, I spoke to a reader who was concerned with the significant amount of newspapers, magazines, maps and other pieces we produce due to the effects on the environment. I welcomed this conversation wholeheartedly because I realized that it was an issue I hadn’t addressed before. I’ll clar-

...based on years of feedback from you about this piece, we learned that many of you do not want to carry around a bulky magazine...This minimagazine is made to fit into your back pocket. ...It’s all about accessibility and being environmentally friendly. ify it here. As a part of our social responsibility policy, we support green initiatives and do our best to contribute to a healthy environment. With that in mind, all of our products are produced using a combination of recycled paper and biodegradable ink.

The next pride event we will be at is Boston Pride. We have reserved a space at the festival, and our team is ready to greet you with a smile. Whether you are interested in picking up your copy of The Rainbow Times, the New England Pride Guide or New England Pride Map, we will have them ready for you. If you’ve already picked up your copies, drop by and say hi. Our greatest pride comes from serving you and being your choice for LGBTQ news and information in New England and beyond.

Farwell to assistant editor Lauren Walleser & warm welcomes For two and a half years, we have had the pleasure of working with Lauren Walleser as our assistant editor. Those of you who’ve had the opportunity to work with her too as an interviewee or colleague know that she is top notch, a pro that is meticulous and passionate for her work. For those of us who’ve had the opportunity to work with her more closely, she has become a friend and confidant, a trustworthy teammate. It is with sadness that we say goodbye to Lauren in her role with TRT as she begins a new chapter in her professional life, but we wish her nothing but the very best.

As we see Lauren off, we’d like to welcome Sara Brown, our new assistant editor.

Sara comes to us with a plethora of experience, has worked with major publications in print and online and comes with the highest professional recommendations and accolades. Also joining our team is experienced writer and reporter Milo Todd and our reporter intern Jessica Castellanos. We extend our warmest welcome to these new colleagues as they embark on this journey with us to serve you, our community, in the best way possible. Check out some of their work in the special pieces and in this issue of TRT. Happy Pride!

Nicole Lashomb *Nicole Lashomb is the editor-in-chief and co-founder of The Rainbow Times. She holds an MBA from Marylhurst University and a Bachelor’s from SUNY Potsdam. For comments or to reach her send your e-mail to: editor@therainbowtimesmass.com.

By: Paul P. Jesep*/TRT Columnist

I

n a May interview, Jeb Bush, former Florida governor and 2016 Republican presidential candidate, underscored his opposition to marriage equality, insisting that it’s not a constitutional right.

Bush has received the ire of influential GOP activists for including advisers who strongly support marriage equality (http://tiny.cc/mnukyx) in his inner circle. Now, it appears Bush, a practicing Catholic, is attempting to bolster his conservative credentials in a primary system that generally prefers candidates on the right of social issues. It’s pragmatic for the primaries, but in the general election, should he become the nominee, Bush will need to figure out how to move toward the ideological center.

I’ll leave it to the political pundits to pontificate (pardon the pun) on a Jeb and Hillary matchup, though I don’t think either are worthy to be president (Go Bernie!). The more important issue is that Bush, like other opponents of marriage equality, must be challenged on his reactionary comments regarding the so-called threats to religious liberty.

According to Bush, traditional marriage is a sacrament and “at the core of the Catholic faith” (http://tiny.cc/m6piyx). Does the Catholic faith have greater rights in American society than the Unitarian, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Evangelical Lutherans, United Church of Christ, Reform Jewish Movement, and Conservative Jewish Movement traditions, among others, who support marriage equality? Incidentally, no Catholic priest or other clergy opposed to marriage equality has ever been required to perform a samegender marriage. It would be a violation of the constitutional principle of religious freedom. Why is it permissible to apply the faith of persons opposed to marriage equality to religious leaders, like myself, who believe as a matter of faith that it is holy to solemnize same-gender unions?

Supporters of marriage equality understand “marriage” in a secular context. Opponents define it as something sacred within the context of their relationship with personal faith.

If everyone, gay or straight, received a “civil union” this would be a far less divisive, contentious issue. Once a civil union has been performed by a government official, it would be up to a couple to find a priest, rabbi, pastor, or mullah to perform a religious sacrament.

What stops me, a seminary-trained, ordained priest, from celebrating a religious marriage in Kentucky, which currently outlaws same-gender marriage under civil law?

Nothing. As a priest, it is my constitutional right as a matter of religious freedom to perform a marriage, though I could not, nor would I, sign a government document attesting to a secular marriage under the commonwealth’s laws. In the eyes of God, it would be, in my opinion, a sacrament.

I can issue signed, religious certificates with my seal solemnizing a same-gender union. It has always annoyed me that I’m sometimes called on to be an agent of the state to marry a couple under civil law and also serve as a clergyman to solemnize a sacred union before the Giver of Life.

What Bush and others must understand is

What Bush..must understand is that marriage remains a religious word defined differently within faith traditions... that marriage remains a religious word defined differently within faith traditions; some support same-gender unions, others don’t.

Many in secular society think of marriage not as a sacrament, but as the recognition of a commitment grounded in love under civil, not sacred, law.

Government’s role is never to protect a religious tradition. Let religion and people of faith define and protect tradition and sacraments. Government’s role is to ensure fairness and equality for all citizens. *Paul is an attorney, seminary trained priest, & corporate chaplain (www.CorporateChaplaincy.biz). He will offer a morning workshop on LGBTQ spirituality in Albany, NY at Capital Counseling (www.capitalcounseling.org) June 16. FMI: Jennifer at (518) 465-3813, Ext. 117.

The Rainbow Times The Freshest LGBT Newspaper in New England—Boston Based TheRainbowTimesMass.com editor@therainbowtimesmass.com sales@therainbowtimesmass.com Phone: 617.444.9618 / 413.282.8881 Fax: 928.437.9618 Publisher Gricel M. Ocasio Editor-In-Chief Nicole Lashomb Assistant Editor Sara Brown National/Local Sales Rivendell Media Chris Gilmore Liz Johnson Lead Photographer Alex Mancini Reporters Chuck Colbert Christine Nicco Sara Brown Clara Lefton Milo Todd Jessica Castellanos

Keen News Service Ad & Layout Design Prizm PR Webmaster Jarred Johnson Columnists/Guest* Lorelei Erisis Deja N. Greenlaw Paul P. Jesep Wilfred Labiosa Francisco “Jimagua” Cartagena Mendez Keegan O’Brien* Affiliations National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association QSyndicate *Guest Writer

The Rainbow Times is published monthly by The Rainbow Times, LLC. TRT is affiliated with the National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association, NLGJA, National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, NGLCC, The Connecticut Alliance for Business Opportunity,CABO, and QSyndicate. The articles written by the writers, columnists, and correspondents solely express their opinion, and do not represent the endorsement or opinion of The Rainbow Times, LLC or its owners. Send letters to the editor 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@therainbowtimesmass.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 its 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 written consent.

TheRainbowTimesMass.com • The Rainbow Times • 3

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

Supreme Court to decide on nationwide marriage equality at end of June By: Sara Brown/TRT Assistant Editor

IN THE LIMELIGHT

BOSTON, Mass.—The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) has a chance to rule state bans on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, making it legal nationwide for gay couples in the Obergefell v.

Hodges case if they decide in favor of the plaintiffs.

Janson Wu, executive director of Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), said gay marriage advocates are hopeful the Supreme Court will rule in their favor.

“It’s time for everyone across the country to be able to marry who they love. The majority of Americans believe in this,” said Wu. According to Emily McGranachan, East Coast Regional Manager of Family Equality Council, there has been an optimistic outlook on the case.

“People seem to be really hopeful that the Supreme Court will make a decision to support marriage equality. This can mean great things for our families,” McGranachan said.

“We have seen marriage equality work in 37 states and the other 13 states deserve the same protection and rights.”

Wu noted that Justice Anthony Kennedy is considered a vital swing vote.

“He has a strong legacy of finding protection for gays and lesbains under the constitution,” Wu said. “So, we are cautiously optimistic.”

Pro-equality attorney Mary Bonauto said in her opening statements at SCOTUS on April 28 that the reason for the Fourteenth Amendment is to protect people from being relegated to second-class citizens. However, she argued that gay Americans are being treated as second-class citizens if they are not allowed to marry who they love.

“The stain of unworthiness that follows on individuals and families contravenes the basic constitutional commitment of equal dignity,” said Bonauto, according to audio (http://tiny.cc/571kyx) made available by the court.

Critics to the case argue that states should have the individual right to decide on how to define marriage.

“We are a democracy and we must adhere to equal protection to everyone,” Wu said in rebuttal to that idea.

Wu also added that there is no justifiable legal reason why gay couples shouldn’t be able to marry.

“If you are going to treat a certain group of people differently then there has to be a justified reason for it. There is no justification for this,” Wu said. “When listening to the opening arguments on the other side, you can hear just how flimsy their argument is.”

Bonauto agreed in her arguments before the court.

“Laws must respect the constitutional rights of persons. And here we have a whole class of people who are denied the equal right,” she said.

McGranachan said if the Supreme Court

Janson Wu, Executive Director of Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD)

does rule in favor of marriage equality, gay rights activists can start to focus on other areas of injustice.

“We can move on to other important issues impacting our community. Marriage equality is just the beginning. There are things like adoption, foster care, the Family and Medical Leave Act that make a difference on our families,” McGranachan said.

The recent Supreme Court case has been compared to the fight to allow gay couples to marry in Massachusetts 11 years ago. It was the first state in the country to make it legal.

“Massachusetts paved the way for this country,” said Wu. “Massachusetts was a forerunner for doing the right thing.”

Wu noted that the difference between the Supreme Court case and Massachusetts is that Massachusetts was a state court decision, while the Supreme Court’s decision will impact the whole country. He also spoke to GLAD’s role with the initial fight in Massachusetts.

“We have been there from the beginning, middle and hopefully the end,” Wu said.

“People thought we were crazy. That it was impossible. We made the impossible seem invaluable.”

According to a recent Washington Post ABC News (http://tinyurl.com/ms86jfc) poll, six out of 10 Americans support marriage equality. Wu believes that is because more and more states are accepting marriage equality.

“The more people get married, the more people see that joy. It’s the most powerful weapon we have,” Wu said.

The Supreme Court is expected to deliver their ruling near the end of June.

New England Pride Guide 2015 DIVERSE............just like our team is OBJECTIVE..........someone has to be INCLUSIVE........no one is left behind .....That is HOW media should be.....

4 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

New LGBTQ Youth shelter set to help ease homelessness in the greater Boston area By: Jessica Castellanos/TRT Intern Reporter

BOSTON, Mass.—Y2Y Harvard Square will be opening a student-run shelter for atrisk youth, and ensure a safe haven for those who may need guidance and a warm place to sleep at night, according to a Y2Y spokesperson.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Development (HUD) states that there are more than 21,000 homeless people in Massachusetts since 2014. This state has seen the fourth highest increase in homelessness nationwide. HUD statistics from its website show that LGBTQ youth who experience homelessness are 62 percent more likely to commit suicide than any other group. This group also has a greater risk of being victims of sexual violence. Sarah Rosenkrantz and Sam Greenberg are the co-directors of Y2Y, a program of the Phillips Brooks Housing Association. They explain that there is a need for more shelters like this because of the increased risks that LGBTQ youth may experience.

“Y2Y will more than double the number of available beds for homeless young adults in Greater Boston and will address key vulnerabilities for youth by offering a safe and affirming environment, fostering pathways out of homelessness, and encouraging guests and volunteers alike to become the next generation’s leading advocates for youth-driven solutions to homelessness,” said Greenberg and Rosenkrantz.

Statistics suggest that LGBTQ homelessness is disproportionate when compared to the overall youth national average.

PHOTO: Y2Y

Sample LGBTQ youth room design by Y2Y - Young Adults United to End Homelessness

“Often, young adults are fleeing situations of physical and sexual abuse, strained relationships, or parental neglect. These factors are reflected in the strong correlation between youth homelessness and LGBTQ identity,” said Rosenkrantz and Greenberg.

“National data suggest that up to 40 percent of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ, and local data suggests similar numbers [from

the True Colors Fund].”

Y2Y will have 150 student volunteers and will be situated in the basement of First Parish in Cambridge. The student-run shelter will also have faculty advisors to help run bi-weekly workshops like career readiness, creative expression and discussion groups.

“Students from Harvard Law Schools’ Lambda (an LGBTQ student organization)

will utilize funds from the MA Commission on LGBTQ Youth to staff an ID clinic, where guests will work on obtaining identification that best represents their gender identity and allows them to access benefits and resources,” said Rosenkrantz and Greenberg. “Additionally, student case managers will work daily with guests to access Y2Y’s extensive partner network for additional resources, including case management, job training, mentoring, mental health care, and permanent housing.”

According to the founders, this center was built especially for LGBTQ youth in mind.

Creating an inclusive safe space was a priority in the construction of the center. Part of being a place open to everyone, at any time, meant not having people define themselves if they did not want to.

“To guarantee that the unique needs of this population, as well as other prospective guests, are met, the physical space design process has included workshops soliciting the input of young adults at Youth on Fire, Bridge Over Troubled Waters, YARN, and GLASS,” said Rosenkrantz and Greenberg.

“Space will be fully gender inclusive, with guests sleeping in alcove beds rather than in gendered, barracks-style sleeping areas. Additionally, bathrooms and showers will be single-stalled. This structure will ensure that guests do not have to choose between ‘male,’ ‘female,’ or ‘other’ upon intake.”

Youth on Fire, a program of AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts (AAC), has also offered a hand in making the shelter a

See Y2Y on Page 15

TheRainbowTimesMass.com • The Rainbow Times • 5

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

HBGC celebrates LGBTQ People of Color Pride Picnic By: Christine Nicco/TRT Reporter

BOSTON, Mass.—On Saturday, June 20, 2015, HUES, a program of the Hispanic Black Gay Coalition, will host BASK 2015: An LGBTQ People of Color Pride Picnic at Cedar Square Park in Roxbury, Mass. from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The day-long picnic is an opportunity for Greater Boston's LGBTQ people of color and allies to build community during Pride Month and provides a platform for queer artists of color to showcase their work, be it music, dance, poetry or art.

A variety of activities will take place throughout the day, including yoga, health exhibits, spoken word performances, dancing and live musical acts. One featured performer is BlackOUT. BlackOUT, a project of The Theater Offensive’s True Colors: OUT Youth Theater program, is a performance group of young, queer Black artists who use artistic expression to amplify the Black experience.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own food to savor or share. Food trucks will also be on site to sell meals to participants.

Since 2009, HBGC has evolved to become one of Boston's leading LGBTQ organizations serving Black and Latin@ LGBTQ individuals through social support, health and wellness resources, and leadership development opportunities. HUES was created by HBGC in 2012 to provide a space where Greater Boston's Black and Latin@ LGBTQ womyn can be safe, visible and celebrated.

As the organization’s official pride event, HBGC believes the BASK picnic represents

PHOTO: HBGC

DJ Lady Spin Drift gets the crowd dancing at last year's BASK picnic in Roxbury

an opportunity for LGBTQ people of color to unite and celebrate one another. The event intentionally gathers in a neighborhood of color, allowing individuals to acknowledge and celebrate the resilience, beauty and pride of each other and their communities.

For more information about BASK, email Daniela Amaya at damaya@hbgcboston.org or visit www.hbgc-boston.org.

Hispanic Black Gay Coalition (HBGC) is one of few organizations in Boston dedicated to the needs of the Black, Hispanic and Latin@ LGBTQ community. Founded in 2009, we work to inspire and empower Latin@, Hispanic and Black LGBTQ identified individuals to improve their lives through activism, education, outreach, and counseling.

6 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

A trans timeline from 2004 to 2015: Transgender milestones during Pride By: Deja Nicole Greenlaw*/TRT Columnist

I

TRANS NEWS

t’s June and Pride season is now in full swing. Since 2004, I’ve been attending Pride and participating in the marches. I have noticed that a lot has changed for trans people in those past 11 years. When I first marched in 2004, not too many people knew about trans people. We would march and people would just look at us like we were a business group or a church group. We might have received some polite claps, but that was about it. They didn’t know who we really were.

I remember in 2005 at a local Pride march I was continually chanting “Hey hey! Ho ho! Transphobia has got to go!” When I did a search a few days later on that Pride march, a blogger wrote that he heard “Hey hey! Ho ho! Homophobia has got to go!”

He didn’t recognize the word “transphobia,” so he assumed that it was “homophobia.”

My message was lost on him.

Trans people really didn’t begin gaining recognition from the general public until

around 2007. That was when I noticed that we were receiving more than polite claps when we marched. People were beginning to understand who we were and the support seemed to begin then. Every year since, the support has grown stronger and louder.

This year was the best year for response

ible Olympic athlete, who was America’s darling during the 1976 Olympics, and Time magazine’s “World’s Greatest Athlete” is now a visible trans person. This greater visibility of notable trans people may help the troubled young trans person who is considering suicide. It’s important to have famous

This year, I credit Bruce Jenner and the ABC Diane Sawyer 20/20 Interview for bringing total awareness of trans people to the general public. when we marched in the 2015 Northampton, Massachusetts Pride. People were loudly clapping and cheering for us all through the march. They all knew who we were and they all supported us quite wonderfully!

Every year since 2004 we received more and more notoriety in the marches as more and more trans people became visible to the general public. It really helped when famous trans people such as Chaz Bono, Kristen Beck, and Laverne Cox became visible. This year, I credit Bruce Jenner and the ABC Diane Sawyer 20/20 Interview for bringing total awareness of trans people to the general public.

I think that it is wonderful that this incred-

role models when you are struggling to come to terms with yourself.

The general public now knows us and things have gotten better, but back in 2004 that wasn’t the case. In 2004 most trans people were losing their jobs when they even discussed their intent to transition to their true gender. It was not a good time for us.

Today, there are trans people who apply for jobs in their true gender and in many cases it’s not an issue at all. I know of one person who applied for a job as male and said that she was going to begin the job as female.

The employer didn’t bat an eye and hired her! No, we are not certainly completely there yet in terms of acceptance in the work-

force, but we have come a long way since 2004.

In 2004, many trans people had difficulty in getting housing. Rental owners would flat out deny them and refused to even discuss the possibility of renting to the trans person.

Today it’s still difficult in many places around the country and the world, but it’s much easier for trans people in many areas as well.

The medical profession has also gotten better about trans patients and their needs.

In 2004 there were cases of hospital personnel actually refusing to treat trans patients. I recall having appointments with therapists where I knew much more about being trans than they did. I also remember having appointments with doctors and how they really didn’t know much at all about treating trans people. I remember telling them that I have breasts and a prostate and I needed both checked. It was rather disheartening, but since those days the medical profession has come around and in many cases they are now up to speed.

Looking back, we have made great strides in gaining acceptance, spreading knowlTo read the rest of this story visit: http://wp.me/p22M41-3Ax

Ask a Trans Woman: A glittery, star-filled night at the GLAAD Media Awards By: Lorelei Erisis*/TRT Columnist

I

PHOTO: DAVID MEEHAN

recently had the privilege to attend the GLAAD Media Awards at the WaldorfAstoria in NYC. My attendance was thanks to the hard work of my friend and regular creative collaborator Tammy Twotone, as well as to all the people who contributed to the quick and dirty crowdfunding campaign she put together to buy my ticket and get me there.

Tammy has been to this annual gala a number of times as the guest of trans author and academic Jennifer Finney Boylan, who is the co-chair of GLAAD’s National Board of Directors. This year, Tammy decided that everyone, myself as well as all of the people

New England Pride Projects The POCKET-SIZE Guide is a supplemental piece to the New England Pride Map, the most comprehensive LGBT Pride pieces in New England. With over 1,500 DISTRIBUTION POINTS, delivered to News Boxes in Northampton, Springfield, Amherst, Hartford, Boston, Worcester, Salem, via SUBSCRIPTION, DIGITALLY (your ads working 2x, redirected to your biz site), & INSERTED everywhere TRT is delivered in New England. It is YOUR AD at work THROUGH September ’15!

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who might meet me, would greatly benefit from my presence at the event. I hope she was correct, as I know I certainly enjoyed myself!

It was a lovely evening, full of celebrity hobnobbing, moving speeches, an entertaining gaffe or two, photos, more photos and selfies galore, along with a lot free vodka. I won’t lie to you dear readers: I took full advantage of the free-flowing rivers of fine vodka! Tammy and I arrived at the WaldorfAstoria early, resplendent in our gowns. We

fact that the artist who did my makeup managed to capture exactly what I meant by, “Well, I’m a pageant queen and a writer, but I’m trying to lean more towards ‘journalist’ for my look.”

The Green Room experience was absolutely a highlight of the evening. Not simply because they made me look even more amazing than I already do, but because of the lively conversation and honest perspectives that the folks doing my hair and makeup had to offer. That really was a theme

...members of our community who actually appeared or were feted onstage, but the audience was a veritable who’s who of translebrities. were definitely the most glittery-posh women, riding the A Train from where we were staying for the weekend at our friend Erin’s apartment in Harlem. Although I have a great deal of practice looking amazing under less than ideal circumstances, Tammy’s hair was apparently deeply offended by the humidity and steadfastly refused to do what she wanted.

Circumstance, in collaboration with my own skill at saying yes to whatever random adventures come along, led us in due and unexpected course to the full VIP experience of getting our hair and makeup done by the incredibly talented and wonderful stylists in the backstage Green Room. I have to say, I could not have been more impressed by the

New England Pride Guide 2015 DIVERSE............just like our team is OBJECTIVE..........someone has to be INCLUSIVE........no one is left behind .....That is HOW media should be.....

for me, as it often is. I do enjoy meeting the famous and fabulous, but honestly, I treasure all the people I meet. Every person has a story to tell, and I want to hear them all.

Plus, I never really know what to say when I’m cold-approaching a bona fide celebrity.

Not that that stops me, mind you, and it’s not that I’m afraid. I’ve met more celebrities over the course of my career than you can shake a diamond-encrusted stick at. It’s more than what I most appreciate are the moments where I am able to find some human, honest connection with a person.

Thankfully, I am incredibly good at finding those moments, and I found a lot of them that night, with people like Trace Lysette, a lovely trans actress most recently seen in the show “Transparent” who was seated at my table. We had a very nice chat about the incredible usefulness of entertainment industry skills when applied to activism. I also had a very revealing conversation with fellow trans comic Shadi Petosky, also seated

at my table, about how many more visible trans people there were at the New York GLAAD Awards than there were at the Los Angeles GLAAD Awards she attended earlier in the year. It made me proud to observe that perhaps we are a little more “activated” as a community out here on the East Coast, although I am prepared to accept that may be my “native New Englander bias” speaking.

The trans representation was pretty impressive overall. Of course Laverne Cox and Jenny Boylan gave incredibly stirring speeches, but so did Ugandan transgender activist Pepe Julian Onziema, who accepted the award for “Outstanding Talk Show Episode” on behalf of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver for an episode in which he was featured. Time magazine received the award for “Outstanding Magazine Article” for their article “The Transgender Tipping Point.” Also, Jeffrey Tambor and Judith Light from “Transparent” as presenters showed exactly how to do it best when put in the position of representing the trans community as cisgender allies. My applause for them was loud and authentic.

Those were just the members of our community who actually appeared or were feted onstage, but the audience was a veritable who’s who of translebrities. Author and super-advocate Janet Mock was there, models Andreja Peji and Carmen Carrera looked spectacular, and I had a lot of fun with my friend Dawn Ennis, who famously transitioned on the job as a Producer at ABC News and is now the News Editor at The Advocate. She also gave Tammy and I a ride home to Harlem, so thanks Dawn!

One of my favourite moments of the evening, however, occurred as I was standing around a power strip by the back of the To read the rest of this story visit: http://wp.me/p22M41-3Av

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

TheRainbowTimesMass.com • The Rainbow Times • 7

8 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

nAGLY to honor Salem, Mass. Mayor Kim Driscoll at June Gala SALEM, Mass.— The North Shore Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth (nAGLY)), an organization dedicated to creating, sustaining and advocating for programs, policies, and services for the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender youth community throughout the North Shore, will be holding a gala fundraiser on Saturday, June 27, 2015 at Colonial Hall in Salem from 7:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. nAGLY will be honoring its friend and long-time ally, Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll, in a ceremony to take place during the event, which will also feature remarks from Massachusetts State Senate President Stanley Rosenberg.

“Mayor Driscoll quite literally put her money where her mouth is when it comes to defending the LGBT youth community on the North Shore,” stated nAGLY Interim Executive Director Steve Harrington, referring to an incident that received national attention last year in which the Mayor ended an agreement with Gordon College over its

anti-gay policies, and then declared she would donate $5 to nAGLY for every phone call she received disagreeing with her decision. “It is bold leadership like Mayor Driscoll’s that is going to make the world safer and more accepting for the youth who are part of the nAGLY community. We can’t thank her enough, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to honor her in this way.”

“Mayor Driscoll is one of the most humble leaders I know, whose actions inspired others to follow her lead,” stated Kirsten Freni, Chair of the nAGLY Board of Directors.

“Mayor Driscoll doesn't see black or white, male or female, straight or gay, cisgender or transgender—she stands for what is right no matter what. By signing the nondiscrimination ordinance last year, Mayor Driscoll stated definitively that the youth we serve at nAGLY matter; regardless of how they identify or express themselves when walking the streets of Salem, their Mayor has their backs.

We are forever grateful to her for public support of our mission and goals, as it has provided us opportunities for growth, expansion, and addi-

tional awareness of issues important to our youth.”

"I am honored to be recognized by nAGLY and to be able to have a role in this worthwhile fundraising effort," said Mayor Driscoll. "The work that nAGLY does on behalf of the youth of our region is a testament to the values of our entire community: values of inclusiveness, celebration, and support. It's part of what makes Salem such a special and unique place, not just in Massachusetts, but nationwide. I am so pleased that the organization has found a new home right in the heart of downtown Salem and I look forward to being part of what promises to be a wonderful evening on June 27th."

The gala event will also celebrate nAGLY’s move into a new, permanent space in the Museum Place Mall in Salem, thanks to a generous multi-year grant from a Massachusetts company, inspired by Mayor Driscoll’s actions, to help the organization establish strong roots on the North Shore and expand its mission. Previous to its move to Museum Place this year, nAGLY meetings were held in the basement of a local church. The new nAGLY space features a youth lounge, library and kitchen, as well as meeting room, and offices, thereby allowing nAGLY to vastly increase its services and capacity.

The June 27th fundraising event, which will feature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment from vocalist Chelsea Berry, will help support the purchase of furniture for the new space as well as provide the sus-

Salem, Massachusetts Mayor Kim Driscoll

tained funding necessary to continue and expand nAGLY’s services.

Tickets are currently available through the nAGLY website at www.nagly.org.

About The North Shore Alliance of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Youth (nAGLY ) Founded in 1992, nAGLY’s mission is to create, sustain and advocate for programs, policies, and services for the LGBT youth community, including the establishment of regular support meetings, provide a safe, confidential, and respectful place for youth to feel comfortable and accepted, and to defend and enhance the human and civil rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth on the North Shore of Massachusetts.

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

TheRainbowTimesMass.com • The Rainbow Times • 9

10 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

TheRainbowTimesMass.com • The Rainbow Times • 11

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

Las paradas gay de Puerto Rico en junio ¡Iza tu bandera, la que sientas, con orgullo!

los derechos que deben cobijar a los ancianos y ancianas gays. Este reclamo se debe realizar con premura, ya que nuestros ancianos gay son continuamente víctimas de discrimen y empujados (as) a la soledad en los últimos años de vida. Es menester que a toda persona, se le garantice una vejez equitativa, digna y sin discrimen.

Celebremos con orgullo la diversidad de orientaciones sexuales, pero hagámoslo con ejemplo de lucha y un reclamo gallardo y claro, de que todas las personas de la comunidad LGBTT exigimos respeto a nuestra identidad sexual.

La 25ta Parada de Orgullo LGBTTIQ se celebrará el 7 de junio a las 10 de la mañana en el Parque del Indio hasta el Parque del Tercer Milenio. Para más información, visite: http://stratellic.wix.com/prpride. La Parada Gay Boquerón será el13 de junio.

Para más información visite: https://goo.gl/A35GMr. [También puedes ver el anuncio de la parada de San Juan en la página 15 de este periódico.] ¡Yo soy gay pa’ que tú lo sepas’, nací gay, y así con orgullo me quiero. Soy gay a mucho orgullo, lo Soy con la frente en alto y lo Soy…exigiendo tener todos los derechos y protecciones por parte del estado, como todo ser humano merece. Para comentarios puedes escribir a: eljimagua@live.com | Twitter: @eljimagua (https://twitter.com/eljimagua). *Francisco el Jimagua es escritor y activista de derechos humanos de Puerto Rico.

LATIN VISION

Por: Wilfred W. Labiosa*/Columnista de TRT

O

bservando desde mi ventana, en el Hotel Nacional, veo la bandera Cubana y me trae tantos pensamientos. Sí, estoy en Cuba participando de la 8ta Jornada Cubana en contra de la Homofobia. En este hotel, hay una bandera gigante que se ve en toda esta área. Mirándola desde el Malecón o desde mi cuarto, me recuerda de las banderas que me representan como persona. Para mi, y para otr@s, banderas traen sentimientos mixtos; algunas veces un sentir de tristeza, felicidad, o simplemente de patriotismo.

Mis banderas con las que siento tantas cosas al verlas son cuatro. La primera bandera es la de arcoíris, orgullo LGBT; esta me recuerda lo mucho que nosotros como comunidad hemos sufrido y batallado para alcanzar alguna igualdad. Personalmente me recuerda de mis experiencias al salir del clóset y de lo mucho que sufrí al ser “diferente”. A la misma vez me recuerda de mi trabajo con y para la comunidad LGBT y Latina.

Al ver la bandera de los Estados Unidos me recuerda de las historias de mis abuelos y padres, de la emigración de los puertorriqueños a Nueva York/Bronx y de las fotos antiguas que he visto de mi familia mientras vivían en Nueva York. Me recuerda de como mis abuelos tuvieron que fajarse para alcanzar lo que mi generación ha alcanzado. Esta bandera me recuerda de las vidas que las guerras han tomado, por la democracia e independencia. Me recuerda de la opresión, del racismo, del clasismo y de lo mucho que uno tiene que luchar para alcanzar “su paraíso”. Me recuerda también que hay mucho que batallar en Puerto Rico para una descolonización y decisión de nuestro estatus como nación Borinqueña.

La tercera bandera es la de Puerto Rico.

Esta me da un sentimiento melancólico y a la vez de alegría. Mi cara cambia y siento paz. Esta bandera me recuerda a mi familia, al coquí, al Morro, a los Tres Reyes Magos, al pitirre, a nuestras raíces, a la situación económica presente en mi isla, y a lo que espero que venga para mi isla en el futuro. Me recuerda de lo bueno y malo que la gente que vivimos en “mi tierra” ofrecemos. Me recuerda de las veces que veo la luna al estar

en las playas de Aguadilla y del sol cuando nado en el mar Caribe en Salinas. La bandera, cualquiera que sea, trae tantas emociones y recuerdos.

Y, recientemente, mi cuarta bandera es la cubana; esta bandera me trae tantos sentimientos que no puedo describir en pocas palabras. Cuando la veo, mi cuerpo y alma brincan y siento una energía increíble y comienzo a pensar en la gente Cubana en Cuba. Política a un lado, quiero y deseo lo mejor para mis herman@s Cuban@s y hasta mi próximo viaje a Cuba, ¡Qué viva Cuba!

Bandera = Nación y la nación significa nuestro nacimiento, nuestras raíces, nuestro pasado, nuestro presente y nuestro futuro que ha de suceder. La bandera y la nación que representa significan amor, alegría, tristeza y demás. Mis banderas me traen energías para mi diario vivir y significado a todo lo que hago. ¿Cuáles son tus banderas que te representan? ¿Qué significa/n tu/s bandera/s? Alza tu bandera con orgullo y reclama tu patria, aunque nunca la puedas visitar. Álzala donde quieras y cuando quieras. Alza tu bandera, álzala alto o bajo, pero álzala con orgullo.

Como dijo el héroe nacional cubano José Martí: “Y pongamos alrededor de la estrella, en la bandera, esta fórmula de amor triunfante con todos y para el bien de todos.” *Escrito por Wilfred W. Labiosa, columna originalmente publicada en el 2011 pero editada por el autor en mayo 26, 2015. Wilfred Labiosa, activista, psicólogo y trabajador social actualmente viviendo en Puerto Rico.

Editada adicionalmente por Gricel M. Ocasio.

HAPPY FATHER’s DAY TO ALL DADS OUT THERE FROM TRT! ESPECIALLY TO MIGUEL (PAPI) & THE LATE, ALWAYS LOVED & REMEMBERED JOE! WE ALWAYS LOVE YOU! http://bit.do/hrcspan

http://bit.do/hrcspan

http://bit.do/hrcspan

P

uerto Rico, siento a mis pies como niño inquieto que se sujeta de la falda de tus playas, hermosas canciones entonan tus riberas al arcoíris y lleva tu voz el pitirre en sus alas. ¡Oh patria mía! Déjame darte un beso en tu frente de arena o en tu espalda de verde esplendor montañoso, late en mí tu corazón de india y dama eterna, permíteme dormirme en tus manos de jardín primoroso.

Las personas en Puerto Rico nos caracterizamos por ser alegres y realizar una celebración por cualquier motivo. La comunidad gay cada año celebra dos paradas de orgullo en nuestra isla. Al ritmo de la música tropical, carrosas de exuberante belleza y creatividad, así como exóticos y provocativos atuendos, miles de gays nos lanzamos a la calle a celebrar nuestra identidad sexual de nacimiento.

La primera parada gay en nuestra isla, se celebra el primer domingo del mes de junio en nuestra ciudad capital de San Juan, y la segunda en el pueblo costero de Cabo Rojo.

Ambas paradas son importantes y tienen el mismo propósito de visibilizarnos como una comunidad llena de orgullo gay.

En efecto, durante los últimos años, nuestras paradas de orgullo se han visibilizado con mayor fuerza. Es importante que dejemos saber al resto de la sociedad que existimos, que celebramos nuestra identidad sexual y que exigimos tener igualdad de derechos.

Este año en Puerto Rico, la activista y abogada Ada Conde y su esposa Ivonne Álvarez, demandaron al gobierno en el Tribunal Federal en busca de que se declare inconstitucional el Artículo 68 del Código Civil, que define el matrimonio como la institución civil entre un hombre y una mujer.

El propósito de la demanda es que se le reconozca su matrimonio en la isla, por lo que en nuestro Gay Pride 2015, se debe reafirmar dicho reclamo con más fuerza que nunca.

Sin embargo, es importante que se realicen otros reclamos públicos, como lo es promover el respeto y la equidad laboral para con las mujeres transexuales y las personas transgéneros. Debemos luchar con ahínco, para que dentro y fuera de la comunidad LGBTT se erradique la transfobia, y que se haga justicia a estos grupos en desventaja social.

Debemos abogar por mayores recursos médicos y económicos para los pacientes de VIH. Sean heterosexuales u homosexuales, es menester que estos pacientes tengan acceso a los medicamentos que requiere la condición, a servicios psicológicos y sociales como lo es el acceso a vivienda, entre otros servicios, que les permitan tener una excelente calidad de vida. ¡En Puerto Rico existen ancianos gay! Por lo que otro reclamo de gran importancia, debe ir orientado a realizar estudios epidemiológicos en nuestro país y compararlos con la literatura científica ya existente, sobre

...la activista y abogada Ada Conde y su esposa Ivonne Álvarez, demandaron al gobierno en el Tribunal Federal en busca de que se declare inconstitucional el Artículo 68 del Código Civil, que define el matrimonio como la institución civil entre un hombre y una mujer.

PHOTO: ERIC HESS

Por: Francisco “El Jimagua” Cartagena Méndez*/Especial para TRT

http://bit.do/hrcspan

12 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

Boston hosts numerous 2015 summer attractions for the LGBTQ community Rainbow Times is a sponsor of the event. All door fees and tips will go directly to Waltham House.

By: Clara Lefton/TRT Reporter

BOSTON, Mass.—With summer just around the corner, Boston has a variety of activities geared for the LGBTQ community within the coming months. Ranging from theatrical performances to fundraisers and parties, this season is filled with activities for people of all ages.

Drag Divas Give Back Now in its fifth year, this annual benefit for the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MassTPC) will be held June 9.

The evening will feature performances by a variety of drag queens at Boston’s Club Cafe.

“Drag Divas is a fun and engaging way to give back to MassTPC, while also getting the chance to see a world-class drag show,” said Mason Dunn, executive director of MassTPC. “The divas in the show generously donate all of their tips to [MassTPC], which is a truly amazing show of support and kindness. I would like to thank all the divas and the organizer, Henry Paquin, who make this amazing event possible.”

Lakia Mondale and Verna Turbulence will host this year’s festivities. All tips and admission will go directly to MassTPC. Over the past four years, the event has brought in over $8,000.

“Drag Divas Give Back is a great event that raises money and awareness to the transgender community,” said Henry Paquin, community activist and chair of Unity Pride. “This night brings together the Drag Divas from across New England.”

The entertainment will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. with general admission starting at $10. The Rainbow Times is a sponsor of the event. To learn more about MassTPC and purchase tickets for the event, visit www.masstpc.org.

BEARZ Bare It ALL for Charity The Imperial Court of Massachusetts (ICMA) and Outrageous Productions will host this amateur strip tease show June 11, featuring a variety of past notable “Mr. Bear” winners from different states and years. The night will begin at 9 p.m. and will serve as a fundraiser for Waltham House, a

group home for LGBTQ youth in Massachusetts. The organization’s programs serve people up to 22 years of age, and include therapy, counseling, education and many other support services.

“It’s very important to ICMA to give back to our community that is in need of outside help,” said Your Majesty Empress XI Lakia Mondale, who will host the event. “The government can only give so much, and with that said, we as a family and community need to help each other out. We try to choose different places to give back to.”

The show will be held at the Paradise Cambridge with a $10 entrance cost. The

Broadcast Launching June 13, the Broadcast will be a new weekly party for women at the Kingston Station restaurant in Boston. Its grand opening will take place at 7 p.m. with dinner and drinks as a part of Boston Pride.

It will feature a musical performance by Kiyomi Valentine of the band Hunter Valentine and former cast member of Showtime’s The Real L Word. The night will also feature DJs and soul/hip-hop artist Adrienne MackDavis.

“This is going to be something very new and different for the girls,” said Elizabeth McGurr, producer of the event through Lesbian Nightlife. “It will be the first weekly lesbian party in a long time and we would love your support.”

Going forward, the event will continue to take place at Kingston Station every Saturday and feature a variety of live acts and DJs. To learn more, visit www.lesbiannightlife.com.

Transgender Youth Summit This annual gathering, held July 11 this year, is for those who identify or fall under the umbrella label of transgender and are between the ages of 13 to 24 in the New England area. The day will provide an ...

Read the rest of this story at: http://wp.me/p22M41-3AE

TheRainbowTimesMass.com • The Rainbow Times • 13

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

“Three Generations’” Trans teen story, The Fifth Beatle, and Judd Apatow By: Romeo San Vicente*/Special to TRT

PHOTO: KATHCLICK

director or stars just yet. So this one will keep developing.

Three Generations puts trans teen story in spotlight British filmmaker Gaby Dellal, mostly known for her work as a director and actor in the U.K., just found herself in the middle of the deal-making world of the Cannes Film Festival. Her feature, Three Generations was the object of a $6 million buy from The Weinstein Company, who’ll now distribute in the United States. And the story is a timely one: a transgender teenager (Elle Fanning) begins the process of identifying as male, while the young man’s single mother (Naomi Watts) and lesbian grandmother (Susan Sarandon) do what they can to help. It has all the earmarks of a highquality production, but will it be well received by trans audiences, who’ve become much more vocal lately about the cisgender (non-trans) casting choices employed in most trans stories? That’s the hope. But with the pool of real trans actors growing and their employment on the rise (Orange is The New Black, The Fosters, Transparent), the clock is ticking on how long this sort of thing can continue unquestioned. *Romeo San Vicente auditioned to be the sixth Backstreet Boy. But dreams sometimes die. He can be reached care of this publication or at DeepInsideHollywood@qsyndicate.com.

Happy Boston, North Shore & RI Pride

1. Happy End 2. Of Girls and Horses 3. Orange is the New Black Season 2 4. She Must Be Seeing Things 5. Boy Meets Girl 6. Life Partners 7. Whitney 8. Tru Love 9. Beyond Love 10. Reaching for the Moon

GAY TOP 10

TOP 10 BEST SELLER VIDEOS Courtesy: WolfeVideo.com

The Fifth Beatle was gay Brian Epstein was the manager of the Beatles. He discovered them performing in a basement in Liverpool, England, and rode with them on the wave of massive success that followed. Another fact about Epstein: he was gay. And he struggled with that. It was the 1960s, after all, when just being gay was still illegal in America and the United Kingdom. Not exactly an easy life, no matter how much money you had or cultural capital you possessed. At age 32 he died of a drug overdose. A biography in graphic novel form, the acclaimed The Fifth Beatle,

by Vivek J. Tiwary, is on bookstore shelves right now, and it has a fan in Simon Cowell, who plans to produce the film version. Tiwary has written a screenplay and will coproduce. And that’s everything right now: no

Andrew Rannells

LESBIAN TOP 10

DEEP INSIDE HOLLYWOOD

Apatow goes all the way gay Andrew Rannells is working with producer/director Judd Apatow on an untitled comedy co-written by Rannells and Jersey Boys’ Mike Doyle. There’s not one single detail to be shared about the story, other than that it’s a star vehicle for Rannells, whose career is on a steadily rising escalator. He is the Grammy-winning, Tony Award-nominated star of The Book of Mormon, one of an elite crew of Hedwigs, and current co-star of Girls. Details of the project will come soon enough, but until then, the coolest part of this is kind of about Judd Apatow. After establishing himself as the chief purveyor of the man-child comedy, all Rogens and Rudds and Francos acting gayish with one another, heterosexual men figuring out how to reclaim their ability to be intimate with one another, Apatow is now producing Girls, directing Amy Schumer’s upcoming feature Trainwreck, and working on a project with a gay guy. Don’t worry, straight men, you’re all still very, very important to us. But let’s enjoy this next, inclusive step in the Apatow Universe and see how the expansion plays out.

1. Boy Meets Girl 2. Eat With Me 3. Tiger Orange 4. Looking Season 2 5. Boys 6. The Circle 7. Eastern Boys 8. The Imitation Game 9. The Boys in the Band - Blu Ray 10. The Way He Looks

14 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

For comedian, Tammy Twotone, the response to the interview was the most surprising part.

“I was actually amazed by the responses I heard, not as much from the community itself, but from those outside the community in my case, I heard a lot of comics making remarks.There were absolutely the worst kind,” Twotone said.

According to Twotone, not all the comments were negative.

“Those negative remarks were drownedout by the out-pouring of goodwill.There was some great humor as well,” Twotone said.

Dunn said that media visibility can be a double-edged sword for the transgender community.

“What I found negative, or at least less valuable, was the focus on a white, very privileged trans woman who can easily afford to transition without discrimination, which is not the case for most trans women, especially trans women of color,” — Dr. Beemyn said.

Comedian Tammy Twotone

“The positive aspect is that this kind of attention can start conversations that we can’t even begin to understand,” said Dunn.

“However, there are concerns on how the media handle these types of stories. They have gone horribly awry in the past.”

Others found the interview to be positive as well, including Director of the Stonewall Center at University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Dr. Genny Beemyn.

“It was better than I expected.The producPHOTO: DR. GENNY BEEMYN

BOSTON, Mass.—In a long awaited television interview, Olympic champion and “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” star Bruce Jenner revealed that he is a transgender woman.

“Are you a woman?” asked ABC’s Diane Sawyer, to which Jenner replied, “For all intents and purposes...I’m a woman.” Jenner said he still preferred male pronouns at the time.

Mason J. Dunn, executive director of the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MassTPC), said he was pleasantly surprised by the interview.

“I am happy to say it was respectful for the most part,” Dunn said after watching the much talked about interview. “I think this could be very positive for the community.”

PHOTO: TAMMY TWOTONE

Bruce Jenner interview sparks national dialogue, brings more visibility for transgender people

Director of the Stonewall Center at University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Dr. Genny Beemyn

ers had done their homework, and Jenner was well-spoken and challenged stereotypes, such as being in the "wrong" body. I think it had positive and negative aspects. It was positive because millions of cis people watched, many of whom likely knew almost nothing about trans people beforehand and left with a knowledge about an aspect of the trans community,” Beemyn said.

According to Dunn, the media has a history of sensationalizing trans stories.

“When this happens, the power to tell our stories is taken away from us. That can be really damaging. The media is allowed to

New England Pride Guide 2015 DIVERSE............just like our team is OBJECTIVE..........someone has to be INCLUSIVE........no one is left behind .....That is HOW media should be.....

take these stories and do whatever they want with them,” Dunn said.

Before the interview, the national media had not been particularly kind to Jenner. As his features became more feminine, tabloids speculated about what was going on with the gold medalist. He became the brunt of a lot of late night talk show jokes. Past interviews with other transgender people have not always been positive. For instance, news veteran Katie Couric was slammed by the community for her interview with actress Laverne Cox in recent years, when she inappropriately kept talking about genitalia.

According to Dunn, the media has also generally been telling certain types of trans stories.

“Trans experiences are not one size fits all.

They are often binary Trans stories that are being told, not stories of genderfluid or genderqueer {people},” Dunn said. “Those stories are so often ignored. If there was more media attention, there could be better understanding.”

Dunn also said he wants the general public to know not all trans people are as privileged as Jenner.

“People need to remember that Bruce is very privileged,” Dunn added. “Not everyone has that sort of economic privilege.

Many don’t have access to comprehensive and compassionate care...Also, Trans [people] who come from racial minority backgrounds often face other hurdles that are not often talked about.”

Beemyn agreed with Dunn.

“What I found negative, or at least less valuable, was the focus on a white, very privileged trans woman who can easily afford to transition without discrimination, which is not the case for most trans women, especially trans women of color,” Beemyn said.

However, the Jenner interview did expose other aspects relating to transgender issues most of the media has not yet covered.

“Not everyone transitions young and Bruce’s story shows that,” Dunn said.

Overall, Dunn hopes that Jenner uses his fame for good.

“I hope things go smoothly for Bruce and that Bruce uses this platform to raise Trans voices we are not hearing from,” Dunn said.

For more information on resources from MassTPC, visit www.masstpc.org.

TheRainbowTimesMass.com • The Rainbow Times • 15

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015

Gay-focused drama featured in Boston’s Limelight with All the Terrible Things I do, performances ’til June 21 experiences? How or how not?

BOSTON, Mass—It isn’t often that an A. While trying to understand Daniel, I have LGBT-themed theater performance steals the contemplated the issues of bullying and dislimelight. However, that is just what Hunt- crimination within The LGBT community itington Theatre does in its production of All self. I think most of the time we discuss the Terrible Things I do by A. Rey Pamatmat, bullying from the outside in and in this play we discussed bullying from directed by Huntington Artisthe inside [out]. tic Director Peter DuBois.

Q. What have you learned The Rainbow Times reas a result of being cast as cently connected with Daniel?

Zachary Booth, an accomA. I've learned that the issues plished actor who plays the I have with my own masleading role of Daniel. As a culinity are still very present young gay man and recent in my mind. college graduate, Daniel reQ. What are the biggest turns home in the hopes of rechallenges Daniel faces discovering himself. Through when returning home from his journey, the play examines college? how prejudice impacts close A. Daniel's biggest challenge relationships and examines when he arrives home, is that the cost of forgiveness and he's forced to face the person what second chances actually look like. Pamatmat also ex- Zachary Booth and Tina Chilip in a that he was when he was young. plores the origins of bullying and its mental and psycholog- timely new drama by A. Rey Pamat- Q. Do you think that ical ramifications in this inti- mat about forgiveness and second Daniel's character, due to chances. All the terrible things I do his sexual orientation, has a mate play. plays until June 21 at the South End greater impact on the audiBooth gives us an insight to the complexity of Daniel and / Calderwood Pavilion at the BCA. ences understanding of the LGBT community? his process, while presenting the character in an authentic way that speaks to the broad A. I would hope that Daniel's character has LGBT community, depicting experiences, an impact on audiences and increases their trials and triumphs that many who belong to understanding of the LGBT community. Not just Daniel, but this entire play looks at isit have faced and conquered.

TRT: How does playing a gay character sues that exist for LGBT people in the way I on stage differ from the other roles you've have never seen on stage before.

Q. What excites you most about this role? played?

Zachary Booth: Daniel has had experiences A. What is most exciting for me about Daniel that are different from other characters that is his journey to understand his own ugliness.

I've played in the past. For example, he ex- I'm one of those people who have done bad perienced coming out and the reaction of his things in life but consider himself a good perfamily and peers to his sexuality. Honoring son. I think until we understand our own ugthat history is part of creating this character. liness we have little hope of moving past it, Q. What has been the most challenging as- and that's exactly what Daniel is trying to do pect to Daniel's character for you to depict in this play.

Performances will continue through Pride on stage?

A. His anger. Daniels emotions come out month at the South End/Calderwood Pavilion at the Boston Center for the Arts (BCA). aggressively and unapologetically.

Q. Has this role caused you to reflect on The final curtain call is on June 21. For more the current LGBT issues the community information about this show and others, visit www.huntingtontheatre.org.

Governor Mike Dukakis, Kitty Dukakis and Mayor Ray Flynn, on stage at opening ceremonies at the first AIDS Walk Boston 30 years ago.

AIDS Walk Boston & 5K Run marks 30th anniversary By: Sara Brown/TRT Assistant Editor

BOSTON, Mass.—To honor the 30th anniversary of the AIDS Walk Boston & 5K Run on June 7, the event will return to Boston Common, where the first walk took place. The annual fundraiser for the AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts (AAC) continues to be New England’s largest HIV/AIDS awareness event, attracting thousands of participants who walk for different reasons, all in support of AAC and its work to prevent new infections, maximize the health outcomes of those infected, and to end the epidemic here in the Commonwealth.

AAC Executive Director Carl Sciortino said the event will honor those who came before them but also look ahead to the future.

“It’s a chance to tell our story on how far we have come,” Sciortino said. “We are writing the final chapter now.”

According to Sciortino, this year’s walk will feature archives of old photos from the

Y2Y from page 4 reality. AAC works with people who have HIV, and those who may be vulnerable to infection. Executive Director Carl Sciortino spoke to how a center like this can make a difference in someone’s life.

“It is oftentimes hard for people to understand that young people struggle to come out, even in Massachusetts. It’s also hard for people to understand that not all parents are welcoming of their LGBTQ children,” said Sciortino.

He also noted that Y2Y is just what Boston needs.

“We know that around 40 percent of homeless youth are LGBTQ. A day drop-in space and night shelter that is set up from the start to meet the needs of LGBTQ youth, as Y2Y is, will be an incredible resource for these young people as they work to stabilize their lives,” Sciortino said.

Project Place is another shelter that is also aimed at helping at-risk youth. They see more than 1,000 people a year, and help peo-

first walk 30 years ago.

“In the pictures, you can see people really struggling,” he said. “They will be with us in spirit.”

AAC Board Member Liz Page helped create the event.

“We wanted to have an event that would unify people,” Page remembered.

However, she said the task was daunting.

The organization only had a few months to plan the walk and find major corporate sponsors. According to Page, getting corporate sponsors was challenging.

“There was this major shoe company that we knew was coming out with a new shoe that spring so we thought they would be perfect sponsors,” said Page. “We made this huge presentation in front of them and asked them to be the first major financial sponsor and they said no. So, then we asked if they could donate shoes to the walk and not only did they said no but they also said we couldRead the rest of this story at: http://wp.me/p22M41-3AA

ple find work. Suzanne Kenney, executive director of Project Place, said anyone who is without shelter needs to know that there is help out there.

“Anyone dealing with homelessness needs to have safe shelter. Y2Y will provide an option for all youth dealing with homelessness in the Boston and Cambridge area, but particularly those who are LGBTQ,” said Kenney. “Any program that provides safety and security and quality resources will help people make the changes they need to stabilize their lives. There is a great need in Greater Boston, for resources for young people and adults dealing with homelessness this program will help meet this deep need, and its impact is likely to be very significant.”

Y2Y Harvard Square will officially open in November of this year. It will be located at 2 Garden Street in Cambridge, Mass.

For more information on this and other community resources, visit www.y2yharvardsquare.org.

PHOTO: T. CHARLES ERICKSON

PHOTO: LIZ PAGE

By: Christine Nicco/TRT Reporter

16 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

June 4, 2015 - July 8, 2015