The Rainbow Times' October 2018 Issue

2 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

Yes on 3 Ballot Question: A Law that has been in effect since 2016 By: Nicole Lashomb*/TRT Editor-in-Chief

T

he ballot initiative that would uphold transgender protections in public accommodations, or strip them away, goes to a popular vote in nearly a month. Since first launching the Yes on 3 campaign (https://is.gd/DzVmtf), it has gained massive traction throughout the state in every sector across the board. I applaud Freedom for All Massachusetts on their vigorous education and coalition building campaign to ensure that the transgender community continues to be respected and protected in public spaces in

or no vote means. According to Freedom Massachusetts website, here is how Question 3 (https://is.gd/SWiIho) will read: “Do you approve of a law summarized below, which was approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate on July 7, 2016?”

The Summary “This law adds gender identity to the list of prohibited grounds for discrimination in

IN THE COMING WEEKS, THE OPPOSITION TO EQUAL TREATMENT FOR THE TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY IS LIKELY TO REAR ITS UGLY HEAD IN FULL FORCE. the Commonwealth. Yes on 3 has gained hundreds of businesses, non-profit organizations, public officials, educators, advocacy organizations, sports teams, and countless others, who stand fervently on the side of public accommodations protections for the transgender community.

Governor Charlie Baker first signed the prohibition of discrimination (https://is.gd/hDJnfO) into law in 2016, after it had passed a substantial bipartisan supermajority in the Massachusetts legislature. It has remained the law to present day. Governor Baker also addresses this important ballot question on page 3 in an exclusive Op-Ed to The Rainbow Times.

Over the past months, there has been some confusion about the language of the ballot Question #3 and what exactly a yes

places of public accommodation, resort, or amusement,” read the website. “Such grounds also include race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, disability, and ancestry. A ‘place of public accommodation, resort or amusement’ is defined in existing law as any place that is open to and accepts or solicits the patronage of the general public, such as hotels, stores, restaurants, theaters, sports facilities, and hospitals. ‘Gender identity’ is defined as a person’s sincerely held gender-related identity, appearance, or behavior, whether or not it is different from that traditionally associated with the person’s physiology or assigned sex at birth.”

The summary continues.

“This law prohibits discrimination based on gender identity in a person’s admission

I

FAITH

n September, India’s Supreme Court (https://is.gd/ZzioGB) decriminalized physical intimacy between two people of the same gender. Although there is still a long way to go, it is a major victory in the world’s second most populous country. The decision dramatically weakened a law dating back to the British occupiers in 1860. Over one billion people live in India. Hence, the court’s decision will have a major impact throughout the world.

Ironically, it’s an example when government, in this case, British colonialism, forced religion to take on values running contrary to its own principles. There’s a lesson here for the United States. What Americans too often forget is the notion that “separation of church and state” is a two-way street. More times than not, the holy and sacred need to be protected from the secular, corrupting forces of politics and power. It’s not the ACLU that crucifies Jesus in modern America (https://is.gd/edmbdV), but rather socially conservative evangelicals.

In the book, “I am Divine. So Are You,”

Yes on 3 And, it all boils down to this—by voting yes, you would be voting to keep the current law in place that prohibits discrimination against the transgender community in public spaces.

If you vote no, you would actively be voting to strip away all protections for the transgender community in public accommodations. Essentially, you would be encouraging the Commonwealth to write discrimination back into the law.

The Trajectory The Rainbow Times has covered this ballot initiative extensively

Op-Ed: Yes on Question 3 By: Bryn McCarthy*/Special to TRT

M

(https://is.gd/LSny9s) with an introduction by Devdutt Pattanaik (https://is.gd/5A8RI7), karmic faith traditions are discussed in the context of affirming LGBTQ dignity.

Jainism (https://is.gd/Ku2o7k) , Sikhism (www.sikhs.org), Buddhism (https://is.gd/JZrBAx), and Hinduism (https://is.gd/jcIRMy) are among these traditions. They all were firmly rooted in Indian society well before the British arrived.

According to Pattanaik, a scholar of Indian mythology, there are several examples (https://is.gd/dRtPTp) where these ancient faith traditions are LGBTQ inclusive.

1. In karmic faiths, God (defined gender neutral) does not judge. It’s a dramatic difference from Christianity. In Christianity, however, it is believed there is no sin the Creator cannot forgive because the Giver of Life’s love is infinite. In karmic faith traditions, there will be no call for eternal damnation. Instead, the individual’s soul will be reincarnated (https://is.gd/EZadJ3) to further grow spiritually.

2. Comparable to Christianity, God cannot be limited. Hence, everything is part of ...

aybe, if you live in Boston, you've seen me on the street.

Like most Boston students, I'm frequently lugging around a backpack filled with textbooks, t-shirt emblazoned with a university logo, running into the nearest coffee shop to get my last paper done before midnight. Unlike most Boston students, if Question 3 on the November ballot fails to pass, there's a chance that I will not be able to get service at that coffee shop, or at another place of public accommodation in Massachusetts, because of my transgender identity. Voting Yes on Question 3 would preserve current state law that protects transgender individuals in Massachusetts against discrimination in access or treatment in places of public accommodation, including hospitals, restaurants, and libraries.

Every year, 152,000 students converge in Boston to obtain higher education, with hundreds of thousands more attending colleges and universities across Massachusetts. About 1,800 of them attend Simmons University, a small women-centered university in the historic Fenway neighborhood of Boston. As those students continue with their school year, I want them to feel safe knowing that they can access the ...

See Karmic Spirituality on Page 23

See Op-Ed Yes On 3 on Page 23

Karmic spirituality for the LGBTQ community By: Paul P. Jesep*/TRT Columnist

to or treatment in any place of public accommodation. The law requires any such place that has separate areas for males and females (such as restrooms) to allow access to and full use of those areas consistent with a person’s gender identity. The law also prohibits the owner or manager of a place of public accommodation from using advertising or signage that discriminates on the basis of gender identity.

“This law directs the state Commission Against Discrimination to adopt rules or policies and make recommendations to carry out this law. The law also directs the state Attorney General to issue regulations or guidance on referring for legal action any person who asserts gender identity for an improper purpose.

“The provisions of this law governing access to places of public accommodation are [and were] effective as of October 1, 2016.

The remaining provisions are effective as of July 8, 2016.”

(https://is.gd/uhoUHx) since it first became public knowledge that such a measure was underway. In the beginning, it looked dismal and, frankly, I was deeply concerned that the law that protects thousands of transgender residents could indeed be repealed by popular vote—a gruesome concept where the public would actually be able to determine the civil rights and safety of a disenfranchised group. What once seemed like a close call, is finally polling in the right direction at a rampant pace.

As of a September 19 Boston Globe poll (https://is.gd/5CGPqH), 71.6 percent of those polled said they would vote “yes” if the election were today. That is promising news since, in June, it was nearly an even split. As voters are becoming more informed about this initiative, and the more people that sign on to the coalition, the more bright that beacon of hope looks as Massachusetts continues to move forward instead of resetting the clock. The Rainbow Times has joined hundreds of others as a proud member of the Freedom for All Massachusetts’ coalition (https://is.gd/v3QlhW).

See Ballot Question 3 on Page 20

The Rainbow Times The Freshest LGBT Newspaper in New England—Boston Based TheRainbowTimesMass.com editor@therainbowtimesmass.com sales@therainbowtimesmass.com Phone: 617.444.9618 Fax: 928.437.9618 Publisher Graysen M. Ocasio Editor-In-Chief Nicole Lashomb Assistant Editor Mike Givens National/Local Sales Rivendell Media Liz Johnson Lead Photographers Steve Jewett Christine M. Hurley Reporters Jenna Spinelle Chris Gilmore Nicole Collins (In-

tern) Ad & Layout Design Prizm PR Webmaster Jarred Johnson Columnists/Guest Lorelei Erisis Deja N. Greenlaw Paul P. Jesep Mike Givens Affiliations National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association NGLCC QSyndicate

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, 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-in-chief 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

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

ity for LGBTQ Americans.

In 2015, Lt. Governor Karyn Polito and rom the earliest days of the Revolution to landmark leg- I proudly signed an amicus brief in favor islation that expanded access of nationwide marriage equality, ahead of to health care, Massachusetts has al- the decision in Obergefell v. Hodges. When ways been a pioneer in the ongoing that decision came down, we celebrated fight to create a fairer, more equal along with millions of others across the society for all. That leadership ex- United States. Gay and lesbian couples tends to our proud history of deliv- across the United States would have the opering equal rights for members of our portunity to marry the person they love, just as they have in state’s LGBTQ comMassachusetts for munity.

As governor, I’m I LOOK FORWARD TO VOTING nearly fifteen years.

We also recognize grateful that our Commonwealth is a “YES” ON QUESTION 3, TO that our state cannot move forward unless national model for UPHOLD THE LAW AT THE we share opportunity tolerance and equalequally, including ity. But for me, support for the LGBTQ BALLOT BOX THIS FALL. ... TO with our LGBTQ friends. So in 2015, community is about -AFFIRM THAT THE C OM RE our Administration more than just politics—it’s personal. MONWEALTH WILL NOT TOLER- partnered with the National Gay and My brother has been Lesbian Chamber of married to his husATE DISCRIMINATION Commerce to instiband for over ten years, and that’s why AGAINST OUR FELLOW CITIZENS tute a first-in-the-nation certification for our family is incredibly grateful that Mas- WHO ARE TRANSGENDER. LGBTQ-owned businesses for participasachusetts led the tion in state way in ensuring marriage equality in 2004. It is one of the fac- government’s Supplier Diversity Program. tors that has driven my longtime support The changes mean that state government is for marriage equality and other policies ensuring diversity as we engage business suppliers and contractors, and boosting opthat help the LGBTQ community.

Today, Massachusetts is building on its portunities for LGBT-owned businesses.

Just last month, I was grateful for the ophistoric role as a pioneer in ensuring equal-

OP-ED

By: Gov. Charlie Baker/Special to TRT

PHOTO: CHARLIEBAKERMA.COM

Mass. Governor Charlie Baker sets the record LGBTQ F

Charlie Baker

portunity to attend the official launch of the Massachusetts LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce to applaud business leaders for their contributions toward strengthening prosperity here in the Commonwealth. I was humbled to receive the Chamber’s inaugural Massachusetts LGBTQ Business Inclusion Award due to our Administration’s work in expanding the Supplier Diversity Program and helping boost economic op-

portunity for all.

I am also proud of our Administration’s work to extend additional protections to members of the Commonwealth’s transgender community. In 2016, I signed An Act Relative to Transgender Anti-Discrimination, outlawing discrimination on the basis of gender identity in all public accommodations. I am grateful to the hundreds of committed activists who worked tirelessly to advance this cause, because it was the right thing to do.

I am troubled that some who oppose this law have organized an effort to repeal it.

While I support the ballot initiative process, I strongly believe that the Commonwealth should reject the repeal effort.

I look forward to voting “Yes” on Question 3, to uphold the law at the ballot box this fall. I am confident that voters will join me, to re-affirm that the Commonwealth will not tolerate discrimination against our fellow citizens who are transgender.

I am also proud that we are building on Massachusetts’ strong history of bipartisan support for the LGBTQ community. The amicus brief that Lt. Governor Polito and I signed in favor of nationwide marriage equality was also signed by several other prominent Massachusetts Republicans, including my mentor Governor William Weld, Governor Jane Swift, my former running mate Senator Richard Tisei, and other party leaders. We share a commitment to freedom and equality that is ...

See Gov. Baker on Page 10

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October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

New Study dispels public safety misconceptions, boosts ‘Yes on 3’ campaign By: Mike Givens/TRT Assistant Editor

IN THE LIMELIGHT

Ryley Copans has a simple question to ask.

“We really needed a study?”

A third-year law student and aspiring civil rights attorney, Ryley is a nonprofit co-founder, a filmmaker, and loves dogs. Ryley also identifies as transgender.

Ryley’s question is in response to a recent study by the Williams Institute (https://bit.ly/2sm9Y2Q), a California-based think tank. At the beginning of September, the institute released a report validating what many LGBTQ activists consider common sense: there’s no data to support the contention that allowing trans people to use the restroom that most closely aligns with their gender identity will lead to an increase in sexual violence against women and children.

“Gender Identity Nondiscrimination Laws in Public Accommodations: a Review of Evidence Regarding Safety and Privacy in Public Restrooms, Locker Rooms, and Changing Rooms” (https://bit.ly/2zxsUk0) examined criminal record data across Massachusetts to explore whether there was an increase in acts of sexual misconduct on behalf of trans people in public spaces.

“Results showed that immediately after

PHOTOS: RYLEY COPANS

Williams Institute study illustrates lack of public safety concerns around equitable access to public spaces for transgender people

#YESon3MA: Trans Youth Share What Question 3 Really Means

the laws’ passage, there were fewer incidents of privacy and safety violations in places with gender-identity inclusive public accommodations laws than in compara-

ble areas without the laws,” read a portion of a press statement (https://bit.ly/2MSPpmW) on the report.

The “law” referenced in the statement is

the landmark 2016 bill that amended the public accommodations statute to include gender identity, a move that many conser-

See Yes On 3 on Page 19

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

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October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

LGBTQ+ couples’ fear of PDA’s: It’s all about Time For Love Boston By: Chris Gilmore/TRT reporter

“‘I've got nothing against gays, but do you have to do it in front of my kids?’ She ran away as soon as she had finished speaking, and I was left with a kind of rage that I knew was dangerous to keep inside,” said Scottish film director Sean Lìonadh of his first-hand account of going for a walk in the park with his boyfriend while holding his hand. Simply showing affection to his loved one and the reaction it ensued, he said, was so maddening that it inspired him to write a poem and direct a short film about it called Time For Love.

“Time For Love was about expressing that rage, and allowing a wider audience to feel the oppression that a lot of marginalised people feel every day,” Lìonadh expressed via e-mail to The Rainbow Times.

“I'm lucky that my experience of homophobia has never been violent—but there was something very sinister about the aloofness of the way that woman said those words, and I wanted to challenge and explore the kind of intolerance that it’s not outright, but that simmers under the surface of modern life.”

From Scotland to the U.S., similar thoughts emerged from a Boston, Mass. gay man who had grown frustrated with his inability to hold hands publicly and freely with his boyfriend, not just within the confines of their home. And, thus, a project— inspired from the same concept as Lìonadh’s film and its name—was born.

“LGBTQ+ people still have an enor-

mous, fundamental fear of showing affection in public,” said Nathaniel De Young, Boston’s Time For Love Project (TFLP) organizer (https://is.gd/sQEp3A. “This is evident in how few LGBTQ+ couples you see in any city holding hands. The fear is always there—the fear of judgment, of ridicule, of violence. I think most LGBTQ+ couples are more comfortable hiding their affection than risking any sort of attention.”

Another reason, besides conquering the fear to show his boyfriend “affection” daily, De Young felt an event like TFLP was needed to bring awareness and education to other people, whether they are pro LGBTQ+ rights or not.

“I also felt compelled to start this project because, for almost my entire life, I have felt ashamed of being gay and have never thought that I was worthy of being in a solid, healthy relationship and expressing my true feelings in public,” De Young explained.

Time For Love Project In simple terms, if others can express their love freely when they are out in public, so should LGBTQ+ people, according to De Young.

“We want to experience what it is like to wrap our arms around our partner in the park or hold hands on the subway, or kiss at a festival without the exhausting thought process of ‘is this a safe area?’” he said.

Out of this societal conundrum, De

Young started the TFLP, a unique event that will take place on October 27 at 4 p.m., which will be the first of continuous TFLP weekly events for the LGBTQ+ community in Boston. Its FB Page states its mission is to “provide LGBTQ+ couples as safe a space as possible to hold hands in public. We give strength and support by banding together as couples.”

“We will start by walking once a week in Boston Common and The Public Garden,” reads the FB event page. “As we grow in numbers and continue to make this a safe space for ourselves, we will branch out to other parts of the city, with the goal of making the entire city of Boston and beyond a safe place for all couples to walk hand-inhand together.”

Public Affection & Depression In his quest to find answers, De Young realized that societal rules and expectations place a larger pressure on LGBTQ+ couples who don’t feel comfortable displaying affection to one another in public spaces.

“I have come to realize that I am not the problem at all, but rather the misconceptions of the LGBTQ+ community and the shame put upon us are the problem. … But I believe if we get to the bottom of it, the real reason we justify not showing affection in public is that we believe we don’t deserve to. It is one of the ways our community believes and helps perpetuate the lie that we are lesser. We don’t realize this is a fallacy and instead internalize it, which

See Time ForLove on Page 11

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October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

Julia Sherratt and Heather Mack, two members of Boston-based hip-hop group Solo Sexx PHOTO: SOLO SEXX

Profile: Boston music scene offers inclusive, welcoming environment for the LGBTQ community, despite some issues By: Nicole Collins/TRT Intern

Citrusphere (https://bit.ly/2IfdyTT) are fans of affirmation.

The Boston-based electro-pop band has a ritual of putting glittering gems on their fans (with consent) to help the audience “feel like they’re shining from the inside out.”

They are just one example of many of Boston’s thriving LGBTQ music scene.

“LGBTQ artist representation in the Boston music scene is evolving and I am happy to see the artists getting recognition,” said Angel Rose, a member of the band. “The dance floor has often been a place of liberation, celebration [and] refuge for the LGBTQ community and I want our shows to reflect and support that environment.”

“I think it’s awesome to look around and see how many queer performers … [and] queer performers of color are finding their spotlight here in Boston—not a city known for its inclusivity,” said Heather Mack, a member of Solo Sexx (https://bit.ly/2IfEZwX), a Boston-based LGBTQ hip-hop group.

“A lot of bands in the Boston scene work together to make a ‘queercore’ scene, with the caveat that not all of these bands identify their music with ‘queercore,’” said Pasha Koskins of Boston band Kármán Voh (https://bit.ly/2Ii8wq4).

But, at the same time, some issues face the performers.

“Gentrification in the Boston area is causing so many LGBTQ musicians … to have to move away,” Mack said. “It’s really imperative that we continue to fight against policies and politicians that contribute to displacement so that all of us can benefit from [an] increasingly diverse lineup of local artists and continue to make our art there.”

“We need to be willing to teach and work with people and change the attitudes of

our society.”

Boston Hassle (https://bit.ly/2Ieb883) (or, just “Hassle”), a local music promotion organization and venue, is headquartered in the Dorchester Art Project, an inconspicuous, slim, grey building sandwiched between apartments in the Fields Corner section of Dorchester, a neighborhood in southern Boston.

It started out as a group that mainly promoted all ages shows. But, according to founder—and co-head of the parent organization, Brain Arts—Sam Potrykus, “it quickly evolved into its commitment [of] serving underrepresented artists of all kinds—not just teens and youth, but especially women, queer and non-binary folks, people of color and anybody else who [felt] excluded.”

Aside from promoting local music, “Hassle” also promotes and encourages marginalized individuals to create art—and the organization often hosts art shows in their space.

According to Potrykus, venues have a considerable influence in shaping an inclusive community and music scene. But there are considerable issues that come with that responsibility.

“Sadly, the only legal and legitimate venues who possess all the expensive [permits] and licenses are not often committed to diversity and inclusion,” he said. “There are spaces, usually underground, that are committed to such inclusion and safe space culture, but they struggle to stay open … because venues [aren’t] economically viable [in our society] unless they serve alcohol,” which is difficult under current Massachusetts state law.

But despite these issues, Potrykus remains optimistic.

“There is a lot of motion in the right direction,” he said. “People truly seem to care about inclusion and diversity … We need to be willing to teach and work with people

See Boston Music on Page 10

This November, VOTE YES ON 3, to uphold dignity and respect for our transgender neighbors

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October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

Becca Blackwell to star in LGBTQIA+ Selected Shorts on November 9th Award-winning Transgender actor to take center stage at UMASS Fine Arts Center, Amherst, Mass.

AMHERST, Mass.—In early November, UMASS Fine Arts Center (FAC) brings a night of hilarious, surreal, moving and romantic tales about the LGBTQIA+ community to center stage through Selected Shorts, a performance based on the hit public radio series. One actor stealing the limelight that night will be NYC based award-winning trans actor, performer and writer Becca Blackwell.

Focused specifically on the LGBTQIA+ community in this series, the FAC Programming Director, Aaron Shackelford explained that the center strives to be a space where everyone feels welcome. A core value, he said is to be “not just an artistic sanctuary, but a space of inclusion for all of our students, staff, faculty, and community members. This evening of Selected Shorts represents these values. For the performance at the FAC, we asked Selected Shorts to put together a program that reinforces the belief that everyone’s stories can and will be told at the FAC.” And put together, they did.

Blackwell, who has collaborated with playwrights and directors to expand the understanding of personhood and the body through performance, takes to the stage on November 9. Their work can be found on TV series such as Shameless and Jack in the Box, amongst many others. A solo performer too, Blackwell is on the road with their show They, Themselves and Schmerm.

The Rainbow Times recently caught up

with Blackwell to check out their upcoming projects and authentic insights. In this candid exclusive interview, Blackwell shares their experience of breaking onto the scene as a trans actor, misconceptions about the trans and non-binary communities, personal struggles, politics and much more.

Q: After an impressive CV working with top-notch collaborators such as Young Jean Lee, Richard Maxwell, Sharon Hayes, and countless others, you also have your solo show—They, Themself and Schmerm. What inspired this solo act?

A: I had never really seen myself on stage or TV/film. It was very hard for me to ever get an audition for a role that I was even remotely suited for. I have been in this business for over 20 years and nothing was available in mainstream [nor] even in much downtown Off Off Broadway work. I was getting work by a small hand full of artists that would write for me or hand-pick me to be in their productions. But, that is not a way to make a living. I knew I was meant to make work and to be an actor and I knew that the only way to see myself on stage was to write for myself. My friend Michelle Matlock had been telling me this for years, as she was also experiencing this as an African American artist/actor. My partner Erin Markey, who is a prolific performance maker, told me to write what I

Becca Blackwell

was interested in. It took many trials and errors but I stumbled upon a video called Me, Myself and I about the late actor Corey Haim. And, it was a very strange eureka moment. I sent the video to my friend Jill Pangallo and the rest just organically happened.

Q: There is a lot of misunderstanding of non-binary people. How would you ex-

PHOTO: MICHAEL DEANGELIS

plain to others the concept of a non-binary individual and the usage of they/them pronouns?

A: I just love making people use singular they for my own fetish. On a more serious note, humans are always in a state of flux and fluidity. Most concepts of gender are societal. If someone has certain flesh between their legs, why are they regulated to

See Becca Blackwell on page 17

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

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Boston Music from page 7 and change the attitudes of our society.”

Publications spotlight artists Allston Pudding (https://bit.ly/NKGZzl), a Boston-based publication dedicated to local music, plays a major role in fueling the Boston LGBTQ music scene and helping foster a present and safe LGBTQ community in the city.

“We intentionally work to support and champion local artists (from our hometown to local scenes throughout the world), especially those who may not receive their proper radio play or publicity, but definitely deserve attention,” said Jackie Swisshelm, a writer for the publication. “For me, that means [femme, trans*, women], those LGBTQIA+ identified, artists of color and all their intersections.”

Along with this, according to Swisshelm, Allston Pudding also helps organize and support local events and causes, as well as donating to local organizations.

Supporting artists and the music scene “[is] a process that never has a stopping point because it’s always evolving,” Swisshelm said. “We need to constantly engage and educate ourselves so that we can fairly represent and include every aspect of the local music scene.

“At the same time, we need to hold up writers and artists who want to speak for themselves and give them a platform.

That’s how we can discover our next favorites!”

ALLSTON PUDDING, A BOSTON-BASED PUBLICATION DEDICATED TO LOCAL MUSIC, PLAYS A MAJOR ROLE IN FUELING THE BOSTON LGBTQ MUSIC SCENE AND HELPING FOSTER A PRESENT AND SAFE LGBTQ COMMUNITY IN THE CITY. Artists, venues, and publications help each other “Local music” usually raises the question of what “local” means.

Local music, instead of being tied to location, seems to be constituted by the connections and associations of the bands and acts that make it up. In other words, local music seems to be more of a community than a location.

“A big thing I hold onto is the idea that we have to build each other up to build ourselves up,” said Mack, Solo Sexx. “That we are truly a community and that a [win] for one of us is a [win] for all of us.”

And it’s those connections that seem to reinforce the Boston LGBTQ music scene—a feeling of mutual protection, looking out for each other, and camaraderie that comes with the identity. With the emer-

gence and departure of many bands and acts comes a sense of welcoming and a tight-knit spirit that ties Boston together in an essential and almost uniform, protective way.

“From the community, about the community, by the community, for the community,” said Mack.

“The best thing ... is the inclusivity,” said Alec Goldman, a frequenter of the Boston music scene. “No kind person will be unwelcome [at] a show. If you’re nice and you want good music, then you’re [welcomed] with open arms.”

For many, local music is representative with the familial—a connectedness that is synonymous with home.

“Local music is like a beating heart of a community to me,” said Rose of Citrusphere. “From a personal perspective, local music communities have served as my chosen family, my source of freedom and as my catalysts for growth as a human being.

I have felt most free as a queer individual within my local music community.”

To check out Citrusphere visit https://bit.ly/2IfdyTT. Find out more about Kármán Voh at https://bit.ly/2Ii8wq4; Solo Sexx at https://bit.ly/2IfEZwX; Boston Hassle at https://bit.ly/2Ieb883; and Allston Pudding’s work at https://bit.ly/NKGZzl.

Happy Halloween!

Gov. Baker from page 3 enshrined in our nation’s core values and crosses party lines.

In that spirit, I was glad to address the Log Cabin Republicans’ annual “Spirit of Lincoln” event earlier this month to highlight our Administration’s record of support for Massachusetts’ LGBTQ residents.

I will continue to make the case that equal rights is not a partisan issue, and that our society is stronger when we all recognize that.

As we campaign for re-election, the Lt. Governor and I are proud to communicate with Massachusetts’ voters about our proud record of support for the LGBTQ community, and about all of our achievements as an Administration. From supporting a thriving economy that has created over 180,000 new jobs, to investing in our local public schools at historic levels, to our nation-leading work to combat the opioid crisis, we are proud of what we have achieved together. Most importantly, we have demonstrated Massachusetts is a national model for bipartisan leadership that cuts through the noise and delivers results for people.

We are proud of all we have accomplished together in the last four years to make life better for people across our Commonwealth. In a second term, the LGBTQ community will continue to have a strong ally in the Corner Office as we all work together to keep our state moving in the right direction. We humbly ask for your vote so we can continue that progress.

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Time For Love from page 6 has an extremely damaging impact on us.

This helps to explain the higher rates of depression and suicide in the LGBTQ+ population than in the general population.”

In a mental health setting, expressing love and affection is synonymous with health well-being.

“Public spaces in which rules and boundaries for public affection are the same for all romantic couples, regardless of sexual orientation, [and] are ultimately the sign of a healthy societal climate in which all romantic relationships are equally welcome and affirmed” said Alex S. Keuroghlian, MD MPH, Psychiatrist and Director of the National LGBTQ+ Health Education Center, Fenway Institute, Boston.

Throughout the nation, many LGBTQ+ people still don’t know what it is to show affection to their better halves and often fear for their lives, if they were to engage in PDAs (public displays of affection).

“I, myself, have only held hands in public three or four times in my life,” said Nicholas Park, Community College Sociology Instructor, California. “I’ve experienced harassment and have anxiety over it, so I do tend to watch myself. I think the only place I have ever felt completely safe holding hands was in the Castro [District].

It has probably had some effect on my relationship—hard to see from the inside— though I know it has negatively impacted relationships of people I know.”

When the hiding becomes the survival escape and people are forced to only live their lives freely at home, other stressors ensue from within, according to Fenway’s specialist.

“Couples who do not feel safe being outwardly expressive toward one another have a psychological experience rooted in mi-

nority stress that forces them to conceal their identity for fear of discrimination and victimization,” said Dr. Keuroghlian. “This can be similar to some symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, including hypervigilance in public places, heightened anxiety with possible panic attacks, and low mood. There is also the internalized stigma of living as a second-class citizen in public spaces, where straight couples have the privilege of freely holding hands walking down the street without fear of being attacked.”

The basic need to kiss or embrace when saying goodbye to others, as Lìonadh writes in his poem about homophobia, defines the moment for anyone wishing to engage in any display of affection.

“Have you ever wondered how to say goodbye? You know, to a friend’s Mum. Do you go in for a kiss on the cheek? To a colleague, neighbour. Do you hug them or shrug them off? What if that neighbour is your lover? What if there’s no other way to say goodbye than the one you know will send outcry burning through the matchstick men and women who love to strike up ideals,” reads a section of Lìonadh’s poem, a statement on the “dangers of the concept of normality.”

Public Affection & LGBTQ+ Violence But the quest for normalcy and acceptance has often taken a turn for the worst for members of this community seeking to display small tokens of affection toward each other, as it did recently in Florida.

Earlier this year, the Advocate (https://is.gd/kIJkxO) reported on an incident (from many that have taken place throughout the years, https://is.gd/GODI7J) that happened in ...

See Time For Love on page 14

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Karmic Spirituality from Page 2 Creation. Because you don’t understand something, doesn’t mean it wasn’t meant to be.

3. Pattanaik writes, “… our sexuality [is an] outcome of … karmic burden … therefore natural. Wisdom lies in” acceptance.

The Giver of Life doesn’t make mistakes.

Every challenge is an opportunity to be holier, better, and nearer to the Maker of Good. Burden is a deeper consciousness.

4. Knowledge empowers. No faith or religion should be stuck in the past. God is timeless, the cosmos unfolds, and with each generation, there are lessons learned and spiritual maturity takes another step forward. In my Christian embrace, I call this Sophiology—the feminine essence of God (https://is.gd/Lp7NMk). Sophiology offers Christians a better understanding (https://is.gd/jKSwSn) of the Holy Author’s LGBTQ Creation. Revelations through Holy Sophia are made to empower, enlighten, and draw nearer to the Divine One. 5. Karmic faith tradition underscores practicality. The LGBTQ community isn’t going away. How is the community to be included in society, into the family, or cared for in old age?

6. There are certain realities that transcend any race, gender, religion, or sexuality.

Death, loneliness, and abandonment are among the elements of the human condition. Karmic traditions, like Christianity, Judaism, and other faiths all attempt to address these realities of life. At its best, religion can help in these areas and do it well.

Pattanaik writes that Divine Holiness

(God) is in all of us (jiva-atma) and in the stranger we see on the street (para-atma).

“Hence [in] the Upanishadic maxims,” he writes, “there is divinity within me (aham brahmasmi) and in you (tat tvam asi).” One of the most important lessons is to “discover love and appreciation for the world as it is, not the way we want it to be.”

Wisdom is acceptance of a broken world and an understanding we each have a role to play in changing it. This stems in part from the inherent goodness each of us possesses. In trying to heal the world while growing spiritually ourselves, we are blessed with opportunities to find joy each and every day. *Paul is a personal chaplain, seminary trained priest, and lawyer in greater Albany, NY. He’s also author of “Lost Sense of Self & the Ethics Crisis (https://is.gd/YGeAGE).”

Op-Ed Yes On 3 from page 2 public resources that will allow them to succeed. No student attending an institution of higher education in Massachusetts should feel as if they have fewer rights than their peers because they are transgender. As an alum of Simmons University, I am proud that Simmons supports Yes on Question 3, valuing the experience of all who live in Massachusetts irrespective of their gender identity.

In November, Massachusetts voters will take the first statewide vote on transgender rights in American history. When

See Op-Ed Yes On 3 on Page 23

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Time For Love from page 11 Miami.

After a Pride parade, two gay men, Rene Chalarca and Dmitry Logunov, were holding hands while in line for a public bathroom along Ocean Drive. The couple, according to the Miami Beach police report, “accidentally bumped into Juan Car-

los Lopez, and then he, with three others, began to attack them” rending one unconscious and barely making it, had it not been for the help of a bystander who was also knocked down by the four suspects. Prosecutors later, upon seeing surveillance video of the attack, upgraded the charges to hate crimes, according to the Washington Post (https://is.gd/LWGBrW).

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

From 1995-2015, “victims of sexual orientation-related hate crimes are most likely to be victimized in a public place,” according to FBI, Hate Crimes Statistics. In 2016, the nation’s law enforcement agencies reported that there were 1,218 victims of hate crimes based on sexual-orientation bias (https://is.gd/TNE74m), through results from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting

(UCR) report. Of the 1,218 victims targeted due to sexual-orientation bias, 62.7 percent were victims of crimes motivated by their offender’s anti-gay (male) violence; 21.6 percent were victims of antilesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (mixed group) bias; 11.7 percent were victims of anti-lesbian bias; and 2.2 percent were victims of anti-bisexual bias. In contrast, 1.8 percent were victims of anti-heterosexual bias.

“I think that it is rare for heterosexuals to experience harassment for showing displays of affection. On the contrary, it is often encouraged, both implicitly and explicitly,” said Parks, who’s experienced backlash when he’s shown affection to his partners throughout the years. “I was holding a boyfriend’s hand downtown. I was about 20 [years old] in this case. A couple of guys started following us and asked if we were going to get AIDS, if we wore condoms, and were just generally intimidating. In that case, I was pretty worried because it was nighttime and there were not a lot of people out. ...”

Time For Love Project, Boston & Beyond The film director, Lìonadh, whose film sparked the project at first, supports De Young’s passionate work.

“It's a fantastic idea and I think it has the potential to blow up and really get the message of the film to any park in any country in the world,” said Lìonadh. “I hope it can be an inclusive place for everyone—every race and every kind of love. … I think this is a project for everyone. What I find ironic and idiotic about that is that if you accept someone and treat them like an equal, they are far more likely to contribute to society.”

The relatability of not being able to show affection is something that some members of the LGBTQ+ community see as an obstacle, something to work on.

“By increasing visibility, we can spread more awareness. People often do not change their minds about an issue until it affects them on a personal level,” said Parks. “It is important for people to see that they have gay friends and relatives who continue to be negatively affected by the social stigma and fear that they will be harassed or attacked.”

A sense of support and community is something the event organizer is counting on for this groundbreaking event.

“It is time to channel our fears into courage and practice showing affection in public. I think doing this will bring a brand new feeling of empowerment, belonging, and freedom that no law can provide,” said De Young. “In order for this to be effective, it really needs to be a large-scale group effort, which is why the project is so important. ” The idea behind TFLP is to continue to have a succession of events that will help change minds, modify behaviors, open up the fears globally to what could turn into a new normal for LGBTQ+ couples, not just an exception.

“I think as we start the project on October 27 and continue every week, the gay community will slowly see that many of our Read the rest of this story at: TheRainbowTimesMass.com

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

#UsToo: Raising awareness of LGBTQ survivors The #MeToo movement has proven to be truly revolutionary. The testimonies of countless courageous survivors have marked a major turning point in the national conversation around sexual assault.

Indeed, the power of #MeToo lies in its amplification of voices that for too long have been silenced. It shows the strength in visibility and the potential for real, systematic change when people are given a platform to tell their stories.

While this epidemic is finally getting the long overdue attention it needs from lawmakers, celebrities, and everyday people, the unique experiences of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) survivors, whom studies have shown are disproportionately victimized by sexual violence, are often left out of the narrative.

The lack of LGBTQ visibility in our culture needs to change to truly empower survivors and enact societal change in the way we think about sexual assault.

Numerous studies over the past two decades indicate that members of the LGBTQ community suffer disproportionate rates of sexual victimization compared to the general population. Sexual and gender minorities, like other minority groups, are more likely to experience sexual assault, sexual harassment, physical assault, and stalking. According to the CT Community Nonprofit Alliance, 40 pecent of gay men and 47percent of bisexual men report experiencing sexual violence in their lifetime, and lesbian and bisexual women are three times more likely to experience sexual violence. The 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey found that 47 percent of transgender people are sexually assaulted at some point in their lifetime.

LGBTQ survivors are less likely to report these experiences to law enforcement, due to perceived homophobic and transphobic bias in the criminal justice system. And when LGBTQ people do seek support services, those services are often designed for heterosexual clients, furthering isolating and traumatizing LGBTQ survivors.

With the launch of our #UsToo campaign, the Violence Recovery Program (VRP) at Fenway Health seeks to raise awareness and to affirm the experiences of LGBTQ survivors of intimate partner and sexual violence. Our goal is to give a voice to survivors whose experiences are less acknowledged in mainstream media. By using ad imagery depicting a diverse range of people, we strive to highlight the reality that sexual violence can, in fact, happen to anyone.

The VRP at Fenway Health is proud to offer affirming and culturally competent services to assist individuals who identify as LGBTQ who have experienced sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual harassment, or hate crime victimization. For victims of sexual assault—including women who’ve been abused by women, trans, and male survivors- the VRP provides LGBTQ-speRead the rest of this story at: TheRainbowTimesMass.com

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Becca Blackwell from Page 8 only certain behaviors? Would one say to a tree or a flower or an insect or anything in our very non-binary nature kingdom that they cannot behave in a way that you do not understand? If there are many ways to tie a shoe why is one way or only 2 ways the only way? These things have always been there, always have been expressed, it is just now making more mainstream news.

It isn't news historically. It has always been there. Someone being authentic to themselves shouldn't affect you unless you aren't truly being authentic to yourself.

7 Tips for navigating income disparity in your new-ish relationship By: Mikey Rox*/Special to TRT

THE FRIVOLIST

When you’re in a relationship, one partner is bound to make more money than the other.

Depending on how wide that financial gap, the person with the smaller paycheck can sometimes feel inadequate (whether it’s justified or not), and the insecurity of earning less may cause problems.

There are, however, ways to facilitate healthy discussions about uneven financial affairs that lead to satisfying results for both parties.

These seven tips will help facilitate feelings of worthiness and appreciation among partners—even if somebody’s boss is being stingy.

1. Discuss the situation and expectations Don’t avoid having a conversation about where each partner stands financially. Pretending that the issue doesn’t exist can lead to resentment. Sit down and talk about how much each of you makes, your savings plan and ultimate financial goals. Discuss how you’ll handle the everyday expenses, too.

Perhaps your partner makes enough that he or she doesn’t mind taking on more than you. Maybe you have enough in savings already to contribute equally for the time being. Whatever you decide, make sure that the communication is open and honest and all expectations are clear from the getgo.

2. Do the math How much difference is there between your two incomes? Does your partner make twice as much as you do? A fair way to divvy up expenses is to base how much each person is required to pay for monthly expenses on how much each person earns in a month. If your partner makes double what you do, it’s a reasonable compromise that they will pay twice as much in rent (or somewhere thereabouts). The discrepancies between salaries should be accommodated at bill time somewhat accordingly.

3. Contribute to a joint recreational account Many partners who earn less feel guilty that they can’t pay for as much during rec-

reational outings or vacation. To ensure that both partners feel like they’re contributing equally to these activities, consider establishing a joint account. Decide how much you can afford to put in the account on a regular basis—based on the lowest earner’s ability to contribute—and start building up the slush fund. When it’s time to use it, both partners can feel that they each worked equally as hard to enjoy that time together. I don’t, however, recommend combining all your income into one account. Each partner should maintain their own financial independence in some aspects so the waters don’t get too muddy in this regard.

4. Thinks of ways to have free or inexpensive fun together If money is particularly tight and saving for entertainment isn’t feasible, research low- or no-cost activities in your area.

There are an abundance of activities that don’t cost a dime, like free outdoor movies, bike and kayak rentals, and admission to museums and exhibits, plus plenty of nature-bound DIY fitness activities—all free if you look hard enough. If no one has to put anything out of pocket, no one will feel guilty that one paid more than the other.

Another perk: a free activity this time means that you saved even more money for next time.

5. Consider alternative ways of making cash It’s a harsh reality, but some careers don’t pay much. If you’re a teacher and your partner is a Wall Street broker, chances are you’ll never earn as much as them. That’s OK. But just because your salary is capped doesn’t mean your creativity has to be.

Maybe you’re good at crocheting knit caps that you can sell on Etsy, or perhaps you’re a talented graphic designer who can provide freelance services. There are a million ways to make extra money outside of a nine-to-five when you embrace your own motivation.

6. Set limits at gifting times Holidays can be hard for the financially Read the rest of this story at: TheRainbowTimesMass.com

Q: What do people misunderstand the most about the trans community?

A: That it is nuanced and not able to fit into one idea. Just like not all people of one category are the same. Each person is their own unique little being. One person’s expression of trans is their own. There isn't a check box that one needs to be trans. I believe, personally, that trans truly means transcending the binary options created by western patriarchy. But each trans person could answer this differently and their answer is their own truth. I cannot and would not speak for all trans people just like I would not speak for all redheads or adopted people.

Q: Do you seek to educate others through comedy? If so, what topics, in addition to LGBTQ+ issues are you passionate about exploiting?

A: I find comedy is this way—if you can make people laugh, their heart opens up.

They expand and with that expanse they can receive. It is in that moment I hope we can come together and find a sense of connection, if even briefly. We are more the same than different, ultimately. I exploit farts. It is the great unifier. I am making new work on connection and sort of, I guess, spirituality. And I am always finding humor whether I want to or not. So, next, I exploit the spirit with comedy! Watch out, gods.

Q: What are your thoughts on the current political state of the country? What are the most important things members of the LGBTQ+ community can do to create effective change?

A: Politics are always politics. Politicians lie. They always have. I am hardly surprised. I have been around long enough

that I don't always trust change in the hearts of many. They don't change, but money does and sadly with money, power is what shifts things. Change on a macro level always starts on a micro level. Every moment that an individual can deeply come to change it always affects everything they interact with. (use of singular they!!) But, the truly best and most radical thing is to know your neighbors, your block, your community and your local politicians. Vote locally and get active in things right in front of you. Don't freak out about things way out of reach, this is a divisive tactic. If you can be present to the things right in front of you that is where change starts. You need a snowball to make a snow schmerm.

Q: What was it like growing up for you as a trans person? Did comedy help you come into yourself?

A: I grew up during a time that the language one would use now wasn't even in the lexicon of my brain. It wasn't until academics started saying these things that I was asked to start “identifying” myself. I was always just Becca. And didn't fit in to what “women/girls” were and I definitely was not allowed or seen as a “man/boy.” So I don't know what it was like to grow up trans, but growing up as myself I was constantly being told to act more like a girl or a lady. I was a pretty scrappy kid and kind of didn't give a sh!t what authority asked of me. I didn't really like boys in a sexual way so I didn't give a sh!t to be attractive to them. For me, meeting queer people in college is what felt really freeing. This was in a time when gayness was still pretty closeted, especially in Ohio. I had a very untraditional upbringing, so comedy and making people laugh was an enormous safety net.

Q: What advice do you offer to other trans people who may be struggling or feeling hopeless at the moment?

A: Find your friends. Be a friend. Stop your mind. It is your greatest enemy at times.

Find the thing that feels so real in your body to do, a trueness in you, an expression—drawing, music, writing, storytelling, coding, compositional farting anything that when you do it, you feel like you are connected to the moon and stars.

Find your people. Love is really an amazing tool to connect to—not necessarily romantic love, but friendship and community

See Becca Blackwell on Page 23

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Vote Yes on Question 3 to end discrimination in Massachusetts By: Deja Nicole Greenlaw*/TRT Columnist

I

TRANS OPINION

n the November elections, there will be a question 3 on the Massachusetts ballot, which involves public accommodations rights for transgender people. Please get out and vote “yes” on question 3 and end discrimination in the state.

The people pushing the “no” vote are mostly religious extremists who want to discriminate against trans people. They are using undocumented and fabricated fears of visions of dangerous men in the women’s bathroom to try to scare folks into voting “no.” The opposition’s sole basis for voting “no” is truly based on promoting fear and scaring people. They have no hard data or proof (https://is.gd/BrnoZu) of any problems, it’s all misleading fabrications. Yes, they are lying. They are plain and simply lying.

Many states already have laws protecting trans people in public accommodations.

Some laws have been on the books for several years already and there have not been any problems. As a matter of fact, the Massachusetts Public Accommodations rights for trans people went into effect in 2016,

and there have not been any problems right here in the Bay State.

Why is the opposition doing this? I am not them, so I cannot fully answer for them, but from what I see, I believe that they want to control trans people. It appears that

marriage too. These are very misguided people who probably think that they are on a mission from God and are doing God’s work. What they are really doing is sowing and cultivating the seeds of authoritarianism by taking away the rights of transgen-

NEXT, I CAN SEE THEM GOING AFTER THE RIGHT FOR PRIVATE BUSINESSES TO DISCRIMINATE AGAINST SERVING LGBTQIA FOLKS. they want to control where trans people can and cannot go in public, while everyone else may go wherever they please. This is outright discrimination against trans people. If the opposition somehow gets enough “no” votes to end trans peoples’ public accommodations rights, I don’t think that’ll be the end of it. I believe that they do have an agenda. Next, I can see them going after the right for private businesses to discriminate against serving LGBTQIA folks. If they can get that right to discriminate, don’t be surprised if they’ll try to end same-sex

der Americans. You cannot take away the rights of any Americans. In my view, these folks are anti-American and are a threat to our nation. They need to be stopped. We need to save America from the grasp of these misguided and, frankly, bigoted folks.

We can do it with enough “yes” votes on Question 3.

Please, note that the opposition is not all religious folk. There are many religions that fully support trans public accommodations rights and there are many, many religious folks who fully support us in our

quest to keep our rights. I thank these people from the bottom of my heart. Who I am referring to as the opposition are the extremist religious folks? They are the real threat to America.

We can also help fight these extremist folks by living openly and telling our stories in public. Some people may never knowingly have met a trans person and if they did meet one, they might be able to understand our situation more clearly. This is where living openly and proudly will help our cause. There are many trans folks who do live openly and proudly, and they tell their stories and let cisgender folks know what the facts are and what the situation truly is. This is what we need, to get our stories out so people can hear us and understand that we’re just as they are. I realize that some trans folks want to live under the radar and out of the public eye, but this is a time to step up into the public eye, face the opposition head on and defend our freedom. I’m asking all trans folks and allies to talk to cisgender folks and tell them our trans stories and ask them to vote Yes on Question 3. Our lives do matter and so does our freedom. *Deja Nicole Greenlaw is retired from 3M and has 3 children and two grandchildren.

She can be contacted at dejavudeja@sbcglobal.net.

Why you should vote Yes On 3, for transgender people & for your community By: Lorelei Erisis*/TRT Columnist

A

PHOTO: DAVID MEEHAN

column like this is always sort of weird to write. I expect that the vast majority of my readers will be folks who need little convincing to support the point of view I’m about to present. So, let me begin by asking you, oh dear readers, a favor: Share this column.

If there is anyone in your life that you think might need convincing to support trans rights, or even simply not to actively oppose trans rights, send them this column.

Also, link to it in groups that you wouldn’t otherwise post trans or LGBTQ content in.

Send it to that Uncle. You know the one.

Print it out and bring it to work. Leave it lying around in the break room. Place it under the "People" magazine on your neighbor’s coffee table because we need to do everything we can to get the message, and the vote, out.

Because remember, on Tuesday, November 6th, the people of Massachusetts will be voting on our rights. The rights of transgender people. My rights.

And, now I’m going to start talking to those other people here, the ones we need to reach.

Hi folks! I am a transgender woman, a fact you may have already figured out from the name of this newspaper column. But, I want to make sure I’m clear on that, so we’re all on the same page.

By now, it’s entirely possible you have

heard about Massachusetts’ ballot question number 3. It’s the one that’s asking the voters of this state to decide whether to preserve or repeal the Transgender Public Accommodations Law that was passed back in 2016. And, there are just a few things I think you should know, as informed citizens, about this ballot measure.

First of all, and this is important, this ballot issue is not a fight that the transgender community started. We spent a bunch of years going through the whole legislative process of getting a bill proposed, supported, vetted, subjected to public scrutiny, debated, voted on by our elected representatives, passed by both houses of the legislature, and then signed into law by our Republican governor.

I know, because I was personally there at almost every step of the way. I even earned myself an entire page on the website of a local right-wing organization devoted to how “evil” I am for being one of the people “pushing” the “bathroom bill!” That happened mainly because I had the gall to suggest, as a private citizen and transgender woman on a local PBS news program, that maybe it would be nice if I could have basic protections in public spaces. And, that my opponent in the “debate,” one of that organization’s hired lawyers, was perhaps trying to use scare tactics to get folks stirred up and afraid because that was all they really have.

That’s a point worth repeating. Because by now you may have seen some of our opponent’s ads using those same scare tactics, playing at your desire to help protect women and children. Though they may not

THIS LAW HAS DONE NOTHING BUT PROTECT THOSE WHO ARE PREPARED TO BE GOOD, LAW-ABIDING CITIZENS AND DECENT MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITIES. come right out and say it, they want you to make the false connection in your heads between trans people and sexual predators.

They don’t want you to consider that repealing this law would be taking protections away from thousands of your friends, neighbors, co-workers and family members. They want you to believe you are making your community safer.

Yet, you most certainly would not be. If anything, repealing this law would put many people in danger. That’s why when we were working to pass this law we received the support of a great number of women’s groups and youth organizations and why many of those same organizations stand with us still to fight the repeal.

This law makes all of us safer because it protects vulnerable members of our community from abuse and harassment, many of whom, you guessed it, are in fact, women and children.

While I’m here clearing up misconceptions, let me directly address that whole, “bathroom bill” thing. Yes, the transgender

public accommodations law does cover bathrooms and locker rooms. It’s true and honestly necessary. Transgender people gotta pee, just like everyone else. That’s not going to change, law or no law. To borrow one of our opponent’s favorite phrases, it’s just simple biology.

Additionally, I’m a really super-visible transgender woman myself. I’m 6’4”, the same height as Abraham Lincoln. It may shock you to know that I’ve been using public restrooms with absolutely zero problems for a solid decade now. If anything, most other women I encounter are almost overwhelmingly friendly! They often want to chat and I’m just there to pee and maybe fix my makeup--get in and get out. Basically, despite what you are being told, out in the real world, it’s a non-issue.

Where it would become an issue is if, as a woman, I was suddenly forced to use men’s restrooms and locker rooms. That can get quickly dangerous. For reason, I doubt I even need to spell out.

For Trans People on Page 21

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Yes On 3 from page 4 vative advocates said would lead to an increase of sexual violence against women and children in public restrooms.

“Not only do transgender and gender nonconforming [people] not cause any incidents in restrooms, if anyone is at risk for encountering harassment or violence in restrooms, it is transgender and gender nonconforming people, who are also often physically removed from restrooms or barred from entering them at all,” said Copans, who uses the pronouns “they” and “them.” “When this also occurs in schools and in the workplace, transgender and gender nonconforming youth and workers often do not use restrooms out of fear, or starve and dehydrate themselves to avoid such situations.”

largely attributed to public safety concerns around sexual predators and conservative messages that criminalized trans people.

Members of the trans community were forced to live, work, and visit the Commonwealth knowing that their right to work in public settings such as coffee shops, restaurants, and grocery stores were protected, but their right to be served as customers in those settings was still in jeopardy. This irony was often used as a justification by advocates as to why the law needed to be fixed.

In the five years between the signing of the 2011 law and the 2016 law, a rejuvenated coalition was formed to advocate for the explicit protection of trans people in public settings. The Freedom Massachusetts coalition grew to include advocates, non-profits, faith leaders, businesses and many other parties interested in amending

“WE'VE LIVED WITH THIS LAW IN MASS. FOR OVER TWO YEARS NOW AND THERE HAS NOT BEEN A SINGLE INSTANCE OF MISCONDUCT BY A TRANSGENDER PERSON IN PUBLIC SPACES.” —DEBORAH SHIELDS, MASSEQUALITY The Law July 2016 saw Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker sign the amended public accommodations bill into law. The road to the bill’s passage and signing was paved with a years-long struggle by LGBTQ activists to educate the public about trans identities while simultaneously lobbying state legislators on the bill.

“Today is a huge victory for civil rights and for our transgender friends, family and neighbors,” said Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, a long-time outspoken supporter of the bill, in a press statement (https://bit.ly/2ONE3SR) released on the day it was signed into law. “So many people have spent years advocating, educating and fighting for equality, and now these important protections will be extended to everyone. We have transgender children and their parents in particular to thank, for bravely sharing their families’ stories and for persisting in their mission to end discrimination in public places.”

An earlier version of the public accommodations law passed in 2011 included gender identity as a protected status in a range of areas, including employment, housing, and education. However, legal protections in public settings such as parks, public transportation, and malls were excluded. This noticeable exclusion was

the law. After years of advocacy, the coalition won a massive victory at the State House when the bill was voted successfully out of the state legislature and sent to Gov. Baker’s desk.

Advocates, however, only received a short reprieve as conservative activists mobilized their base by collecting signatures to put the bill on the 2018 ballot for a public vote. That vote will be on November 6.

Yes On 3 Freedom Massachusetts now identifies as the Yes on 3 Coalition (https://bit.ly/2Pf7w8n), and has engaged in a massive public campaign to inform voters about the ballot question and why voting “no” would be an attack on civil rights.

Do you approve of a law summarized below, which was approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate on July 7, 2016? reads ballot question 3, which then goes on to summarize the 2016 law. A “yes” vote means that the law should remain in place while a “no” vote means that it should be appealed.

The early September release of the Williams Institute report was a muchneeded boost for the campaign and went a

See Yes On 3 on Page 20

QPuzzle this October: Dancing Around the Truth

Across 1 Like Barber's "Adagio for Strings" 5 Beachwear for a hunk 10 Fruity drinks 14 Auto dash dial 15 Greek poet who didn't look at adult magazines 16 "___ l'amour!"

17 Start to climax 18 "___ there yet?"

19 Kind of stimulating 20 Start of a quip 22 More of the quip 24 Mardi Gras, e.g.

25 Nook at the Cathedral of Hope 27 Hustler's stick 28 NNW's opposite 29 Albee's Fam and ___ 32 Bygone nuclear agcy.

33 Billy Budd, for one 34 Pears and Cameron 36 Portable beds 37 More of the quip 41 Really big tale 42 Tennessee Williams title critter 43 33 1/3, for a Johnny Mathis LP 44 In Cold Blood writer, briefly 46 Sweaty guy on a sweaty guy on a wrestling mat 47 Symbol of punishment 50 "Xanadu" band, for short 51 Source of Mary's fleece 53 Speedy train 55 End of the quip

57 Burt, the source of the quip (1936-2018) 60 Alternative to "Go straight" 61 1996 Madonna movie 63 Second year student, for short 64 Like hand-me-downs 65 Word that may follow sperm or organ 66 Stable female 67 Like hotties in a gay bar 68 Burke or Close 69 Nose activator Down 1 Everyone can go down on them 2 What knights stick in their foes 3 The song "Do Re Mi" explains this 4 Cry over spilt milk 5 Ethnic cuisine type 6 Game-ending sound, for Sue Wicks 7 Last letter on Lesbos 8 Like a crescent moon 9 Film directed by Randal Kleiser 10 Declare openly 11 Gus Van Sant, for one 12 Compare online stats, e.g.

13 Wall Street bears 21 More like a cunning linguist 23 Premature ejaculation meas.

26 Say "No, thanks" to 30 Went down on

31 One way to cook your meat 34 GI under a corporal 35 Scrap of cloth 36 USA spies 37 Appreciation expression on Broadway 38 Adult star also known as Dirt Nasty 39 Rink star Babilonia 40 Kofi of the UN 41 Homo ___ 44 Pampering, briefly 45 Like Finding Nemo 47 Get ready to shoot off again 48 Experienced hand 49 One of Santa's reindeer 52 It leaves a salty taste in your mouth 54 Burt posed for an iconic centerfold for this mag 56 Warhol, who was shot in a film title 58 Thames school 59 Craft store bundle 62 Button you use to turn down REM

SOLUTION

20 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

Yes On 3 from Page 19

ALL YEAR ROUND!

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“I am an animal lover, an artist, and a student living in Massachusetts, and I am transgender” Copans decided to make a film in support of the Yes On 3 campaign, specifically using it as an opportunity to center the voices of trans youth.

Titled, “#YESon3MA: Trans Youth Share What Question 3 Really Means,” the documentary allows young people to define themselves on their own terms outside of their

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long way in providing data disproving common misconceptions around transgender people and their use of public facilities.

“The Williams Institute study underscores what we already know—that there is absolutely no link between sexual predators or other offenders and transgender people in any public spaces,” said Deborah Shields, executive director, MassEquality (https://bit.ly/2uZM7rS), an LGBTQ advocacy organization and member of the Yes on 3 coalition. “We've lived with this law in Massachusetts for over two years now and there has not been a single instance of misconduct by a transgender person in public spaces. Many other states, cities, and towns have lived with similar laws on the books for many years now and there's just no connection between these basic civil rights laws and sexual misconduct.”

Mason Dunn, executive director of the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC; https://bit.ly/2wXXbsV), a member of the Yes On 3 coalition, said that keeping the 2016 law intact bolsters public safety all around. “ … transgender rights have no negative impact on public safety. In fact, we know that nondiscrimination laws, like what we passed in 2016, make Massachusetts safer for all people, including transgender people,” he said.

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gender identities. “[The film] highlights an intersectional, inclusive group of four transgender youth living in Massachusetts,” they said. “The theme that ties the video together is the youth’s ‘I am’ statements, defining themselves by parts of their identities that are important to them, as well as their favorite activities. These statements are voiced over shots of them engaging in these activities.”

By way of example, a young teenage trans youth plays with a puppy on the Boston Common and declares, “I am an animal lover, an artist, and a student living in Massachusetts, and I am transgender.”

“The ‘I am’ statements are tied back to the fact that Question 3, public accommodations, is about more than just bathrooms; it’s about transgender and gender non-conforming people’s right to go to a restaurant, a theatre, sit in a public park, walk down the street, to exist in and engage with the world around them,” Copans continued.

“The angle of this video is to demonstrate precisely this through showing these young people engaging in their everyday activities.”

The film (https://is.gd/datSkp) premiered on September 28.

Election Day According to GLBTQ Advocates and Defenders (GLAD; https://bit.ly/2mMNdR4) Executive Director Janson Wu, the study addressed a common myth about trans people sexual violence, which is why the ballot question has such significant support,.

“We all value safety, and this study shows why safety advocates, including sexual assault victims advocates and law enforcement, fully support keeping our transgender nondiscrimination law in place and maintaining dignity and fairness for all in Massachusetts by voting Yes on Question 3,” he said.

With November 6 steadily approaching, Copans is optimistic that passage of the ballot question will not only help trans people in the Commonwealth but across the nation.

“Massachusetts’ public accommodations legislation remaining in place once again brings Massachusetts center stage as a leader, and I truly believe that when we keep our gender identity based protections here, we will be able to bring the rest of the country with us.”

TheRainbowTimesMass.com • The Rainbow Times • 21

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

For Trans People from Page 18 But, the part of this our opponents don’t want you to think about is that when we refer to, “public accommodations” we mean all public spaces. Literally, anywhere outside your home or workplace is considered to be a public accommodation. So, bathrooms and locker rooms, yes, but also busses, courthouses, restaurants, public parks, stores, the DMV, etc. All of those are places that, if this law is successfully repealed, it will be possible, once more, to exclude transgender people, to kick us out, harass and even arrest us. All for simply trying to go about our daily lives.

Not to belabor the point, but that means, I personally could be denied service at a restaurant. I could be forced off a bus. I could be arrested for picnicking in the park with my family. I would be spotlighted and excluded, made a second-class citizen in my own state.

Also, it is very much worth noting that despite what our opponents want you to think, in the two years since we passed these protections, and the many years since a number of smaller municipalities around the state and country passed similar protections, there has been no increase in incidents. Will they give you examples of terrible things that have happened? Yes. Given any population group, there will always be some awful people doing bad things. But those are things that can, and unfortunately probably will still happen with or without this law.

To put this more succinctly, in the way those who seek to repeal the law would rather you didn’t know, anything that was inappropriate or illegal in a bathroom, locker room, or any public space, is still inappropriate and illegal. Those are the facts.

This law has done nothing but protect those who are prepared to be good, law-abiding citizens and decent members of our communities. It does not, in any way, provide protection or excuses to those who would engage in predatory behavior or illegal acts. The law only protects those who are genuinely in need of this protection—people whose lives and safety will be actively in danger without it.

Okay, but maybe that’s not yet enough to convince you to vote Yes On 3. Well, perhaps you might want to look to North Carolina and the effects that their own anti-trans measures have had on their economy, the boycotts that ensued, and the lost business that resulted as a consequence.

This is a big reason why the Yes On 3 campaign has such strong support from so many prominent members of the business community here in Massachusetts. They don’t want to see a repeat here of what happened to North Carolina.

Or, perhaps you would like to know our opponents hope that in the absence of clear information, you will automatically vote, “No” on three.

Because studies show most voters assume that, when faced with potentially confusing ballot questions, a “No” vote is the one that will preserve the status quo. They are hoping you will vote their way accidentally, even if you have no problem with transgender people whatsoever.

Also, you should probably know that the number of signatures that were required to get this controversial measure on the ballot was a shockingly small percentage of Massachusetts’ residents. The actual number is fewer people than can fit in Fenway Park.

So, no, we did not start this fight. We already went through all the proper channels, jumped through all the expected hoops, and worked quite within the system to do our reasonable civic duty to get these protections enshrined in law. Frankly, most of us would much rather have spent the last two years getting on with our lives, working to improve our communities and spending time with our families.

But a small number of people, who just cannot abide the idea of transgender people having the same basic rights and protections as anyone else, have decided that they need to stir everyone up again. They are asking you, the voter, to decide whether I should be able to have the respect and dignity of my basic human rights protected by law, a law that was popularly passed by your elected representatives; the people you already entrusted, by your votes, to do this work.

However, this goes much further than Massachusetts. There are much larger outside organizations watching this fight very carefully and are prepared to pour money into the coffers of the people behind this fiasco. Because, if they are successful in this, if our opponents do manage to get this law repealed, then that will set a very scary precedent.

If they can show that the rights of a minority group can be taken away here in famously liberal Massachusetts, then they can go after the rights of other marginalized groups across the country.

If they can remove protections for transgender people here, then they can easily attack the rights of other LGBTQ folks in far less open-minded parts of the country. And, once down that road, it’s a very slippery slope. That, we cannot allow. Not here. Not in America. Certainly, not in Massachusetts.

We did not start this fight. But together, by voting Yes On 3, maybe we can finish it. Slàinte! *Lorelei Erisis is an actor, activist, adventurer and pageant queen. Send your questions about trans issues, gender and sexuality to her e-mail address at: askatranswoman@gmail.com.

Send a M ess age i n N o ve mb e r

VOTE!

22 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

Prize Plus Size: Tom Goss sings his Ode to large gay men By: Shane Gallagher/Special to TRT

“Round in All the Right Places” is Tom Goss’ ode to plus-sized men but its message is a universal one. “Everyone should see the beauty in themselves and love every inch of their bodies,” he says.

He admits it’s easier said than done, especially when everything and everyone around us is telling us that fat is bad and skinny is good. “Change who you are, lose it at all costs, we’re told,” Goss continues.

“Then we wonder why gay men often view themselves in a negative light.”

He’s right. According to the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA), while gay men make up just 5 percent of the national male population, they account for 42 percent of men who report having an eating disorder.

While Goss sees the beauty in large men, he too, has fallen victim to societal standards. “In some ways, my success depends on it. Image is everything, is it not? The music industry says I must be thin, so I do my best to stay thin.”

In “Round in All the Right Places,” he aims to flip the script on perceived beauty.

Q: What inspired you to write and record “Round in all the Right Places”?

Tom Goss: I wanted to sing a song that highlighted the specific things about round men that I find intoxicating.

Q: Do you only date large men?

A: I have a round husband. Although I’ve told him how beautiful he is every day of our thirteen year relationship, he still doesn’t believe me. There’s something innately wrong about that. I wanted to create a piece of art that showed people a different kind of beauty. It’s my hope that someone who is round, discovering their sexuality, will hear this and grow up seeing their beauty.

Q: When did you discover your attraction for large men?

A: I wrestled in college. I’d hang out and shower with young, fit men every day and I didn’t find them attractive. It led me to believe that I was asexual. Then, about a year after college, I fell in love with a round man. I was immensely attracted to him. I came to the realization that I was, in fact, not asexual. I just loved round men. I was very happy to have discovered that.

Q: Who is your husband?

A: He’s Mike! He’s 51, plump, bearded, beautiful and currently between jobs. By that, I mean he’s retired. He’s worked very hard and wants to spend time traveling, camping, laughing and eating. I’m so very proud of him.

Q: How did you approach the sound differently from “Bears,” your first love proclamation to large men?

A: I made “Bears” five years ago. I’ve matured. I wanted something that sounded really round. I wanted it to be spacious, sultry and warm. I wanted something with a groove that you could settle into. I wanted the listener to nod to the groove, and realize

Tom Goss

they’re nodding in agreement as well.

Q: Talk about the video.

PHOTO: DAREN CORNELL DEXTER

A: It’s my first official stab at directing! We see fit and trim men and women shot, lit, and styled beautifully. That’s not the case

for round men. I wanted to change that. I wanted to create images that were ...

See Large Gay Men on Page 23

TheRainbowTimesMass.com • The Rainbow Times • 23

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018

Becca Blackwell from Page 17 love. It is beautifully powerful. Through it you can learn to deeply love yourself, and through that, so much opens up.

Q: As a trans actor, what is your perspective on trans roles being played by trans actors?

A: We need work. If trans actors are working, then great. More jobs please.

Q: What do you hope audiences take away from your performances?

A: Cute shoes. And we should definitely invite them to our next holiday party.

Also, wow, humans have the same notes of feelings and they are played differently in each body, but ultimately we are all working to get to a greater awareness.

And, maybe just a tiny bit of space to take things in that you may not have understood … nothing bad happens when you truly take people in and are expansive.

To learn more about Becca Blackwell or to check out their touring schedule, visit their website at beccablackwell.com.

Selected Shorts of the LGBTQIA+ community takes place on November 9 at Fine Arts Center Concert Hall in Amherst, Mass. For tickets, call the Box Office at 545-2511, toll-free at 800-999UMAS, or purchase online at fineartscenter.com/Shorts.

Selected Shorts is sponsored by The Rainbow Times, Florence Savings Bank, and New England Public Radio 88.5FM.

Ballot Question 3 from Page 2

The Opposition In the coming weeks, the opposition to equal treatment for the transgender community is likely to rear its ugly head in full force. One of the central tactics often used by the opponents is to cite myths related to bathrooms and locker rooms. If that is your only hang up between voting yes or no, consider this.

It is not uncommon for trans people to be physically or sexually attacked, harassed and bullied in restrooms and locker rooms (https://is.gd/dwApzx) for simply being trans and living authentically each day. The transgender community is most at risk when using facilities, not the other way around. Living authentically and using the corresponding restroom or locker room that aligns with your gender identity is not relatable to a man using a women's restroom/locker room or a woman using a man's, as some have positioned it, including the opposition. That comparison negates what trans identity is entirely.

A trans person doesn't choose their sex.

It is not a preferred sex. It is simply who someone is from the time they were born.

A trans man's brain developed as male in the womb and a trans woman's brain developed as female. Genitals do not determine gender; brain development and other physiological factors play this role (https://is.gd/OyFa66). Trans men are men and trans women are women. Each person has a right to use the appropriate restroom/locker room that aligns with the corresponding gender identity. As matter of fact, a recent report (https://is.gd/btfzBR)

published by the Boston Globe found that there was no link between the transgender rights law and bathroom crimes (https://is.gd/btfzBR). Whenever you hear the opposition citing differently, you know that it is a political ploy set to pave the path to discrimination.

I highly recommend checking out the myths (https://is.gd/fjDLrC) on the Freedom for All Massachusetts’ website (https://is.gd/fjDLrC) to gain a comprehensive understanding of how exactly deceit and/or lack of information is used to cast doubt in the minds of voters.

“A 2014 survey revealed that 65 percent of transgender people in Massachusetts faced discrimination in a public place in the previous 12 months,” read Freedom Massachusetts’ website. And, that is precisely why this 2016 law needs to be upheld.

Vote Yes on 3. Lives depend on it. *Nicole Lashomb is editor-in-chief of The Rainbow Times & Co-Founder of Project Out, a non-profit organization dedicated to the transgender community through providing life-saving services and financial assistance. She holds an MBA from

Marylhurst University and a BM from the Crane School of Music (SUNY Potsdam).

Nicole can be reached at editor@therainbowtimesmass.com.

Op-Ed Yes On 3 from page 12

my parents, friends, professors, and neighbors head to the polls this November, I know they are voting Yes on Question 3 because they care about the rights of people like me. With a Yes vote, students in Massachusetts will feel safer here, knowing they have strong support from their community and that they won't have to worry about being discriminated against in public spaces.

As Massachusetts stands as a leader in creating opportunity in higher education, I hope its voters will continue to support anti-discrimination policies that enable all students a safe and equitable environment for them to pursue their future and achieve success. *Bryn McCarthy is from Newburyport, MA. She graduated from Simmons in May 2018 and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Political Science at Columbia University in New York City.

Large Gay Men from Page 22 inarguably beautiful.

Q: How did you find the men for the video?

A: I knew them from Instagram. I can say, without a doubt, that this is the most beautiful group of guys that have ever been shot in a music video. It is my dream cast.

Q: How did they feel about getting naked for the video?

A: (Laughing) Imagine calling someone, introducing yourself and your project, and asking them to get naked at the same time?

How is it possible to do that without sounding like a total creep? I had two or three conversations with each of them before we got to set, so everyone knew what we were trying to achieve.

Q: Where do you want to go with your music?

PHOTO: TOM GOSS MUSIC

A: For me, it’s about creating positive social change. Honestly, fame and money are not motivators for me. I do things that give me visibility, in hopes of creating positive change. That is my daily, short term and long term goal.

Q: How about personally?

A: I want to be the best husband that ever lived. I want to make my husband smile, laugh and achieve his dreams. I want to live vulnerably and openly, every second of my life.

Follow Tom on Instagram @tomgossmusic (https://is.gd/egJk72).

24 • The Rainbow Times • TheRainbowTimesMass.com

October 4, 2018 - October 31, 2018