Washington Blade, Volume 53, Issue 27, July 08, 2022

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VOLUME 53 ISSUE 27 ADDRESS PO Box 53352 Washington DC 20009 PHONE 202-747-2077 E-MAIL news@washblade.com INTERNET washingtonblade.com PUBLISHED BY Brown Naff Pitts Omnimedia, Inc. PUBLISHER LYNNE J. BROWN lbrown@washblade.com ext. 8075 EDITORIAL EDITOR KEVIN NAFF knaff@washblade.com ext. 8088 SR. NEWS REPORTER LOU CHIBBARO JR. lchibbaro@washblade.com ext. 8079 NEWS REPORTER CHRIS JOHNSON cjohnson@washblade.com ext. 8083 REPORTER & INTERNATIONAL NEWS EDITOR MICHAEL K. LAVERS mlavers@washblade.com POP CULTURE REPORTER JOHN PAUL KING PHOTO EDITOR MICHAEL KEY mkey@washblade.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS TINASHE CHINGARANDE, DUNIA ORELLANA, REPORTAR SIN MIEDO, PARKER PURIFOY, PETER ROSENSTEIN, MARK LEE, LATEEFAH WILLIAMS, KATE CLINTON, KATHI WOLFE, ERNESTO VALLE, YARIEL VALDÉS GONZÁLEZ, LYNARE ROBBINS, PHILIP VAN SLOOTEN, KATLEGO K. KOLANYANE-KESUPILE, KAELA ROEDER, TREMENDA NOTA, ALBERTO J. VALENTÍN, MAYKEL GONZÁLEZ VIVERO, ORGULLO LGBT. CO, ESTEBAN GUZMAN CREATIVE DESIGN/PRODUCTION AZERCREATIVE.COM SALES & ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING STEPHEN RUTGERS srutgers@washblade.com ext. 8077 SR. ACCT. EXECUTIVE BRIAN PITTS bpitts@washblade.com ext. 8089 ACCT. EXECUTIVE JOE HICKLING jhickling@washblade.com ext. 8094 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING/ADMINISTRATION PHILLIP G. ROCKSTROH prockstroh@washblade.com ext. 8092 NATIONAL ADVERTISING RIVENDELL MEDIA 212-242-6863; sales@rivendellmedia.com For distribution, contact Lynne Brown ext. 8075. Distributed by MediaPoint, LLC

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Naval Academy cadets serve as Rainbow History Project interns D.C. group says support symbolizes evolution of LGBTQ community

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

Vincent Slatt, president of the board of directors of D.C.’s Rainbow History Project, says he and other members of the group’s board were pleasantly surprised in 2017 when a professor at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., invited members of the group to speak to a class she taught on LGBTQ studies.

Slatt told the Washington Blade the presentation that he and other Rainbow History Project members gave before the class of cadet seniors went very well, and the group’s interaction with the professor and the academy led to what he believes was an important step in the D.C. LGBTQ history group’s evolution.

In May of this year, three Naval Academy cadets became student interns for the Rainbow History Project as part of a four-week program to process and organize several dozen boxes of documents donated by the D.C. LGBTQ youth advocacy group SMYAL. According to Slatt, the cadets did an excellent job of organizing the SMYAL documents by putting them in folders and new professional archival standard boxes.

“And they created what’s called a finding aid to describe the collection,” Slatt said, noting that a finding aid is used by researchers who access Rainbow History Project’s collections in the way that people use a table of contents or an index to navigate a book.

In addition to working on the SMYAL documents, the Naval Academy interns – Midshipmen Brahmir Vick, Caroline Bilbray-Kohn, and Hannah Nunes – also conducted what Slatt says is another crucial component of Rainbow History Project’s mission. They transcribed more than 25 audio recordings of oral history interviews of LGBTQ people from the D.C. metro area that make up another important part of Rainbow History Project’s collections.

The three cadets in June completed their third year at the Naval Academy’s four-year studies program from which they will graduate next year as commissioned officers with a bachelor of science degree.

Each of them gave a presentation on the specific work they did as Rainbow History Project interns at a June 23

ANNE MCDONOUGH, deputy director of the DC History Center, joins U.S. Naval Academy cadets BRAHMIR VICK, CAROLINE BILBRARY-KOHN, and HANNAH NUNES after the three cadets spoke about their internship with DC’s Rainbow History Project. (Blade photo by Lou Chibbaro Jr.)

event hosted by the DC History Center located in the city’s historic Carnegie Library building at 801 K St., N.W. Slatt points out that in yet another important part of Rainbow History Project’s evolution since its founding in 2000, it entered a partnership with the DC History Center in 2008 in which the Center serves as a repository and physical host for the Rainbow History Project’s entire archival collection.

Among other things, the collection includes documents and papers from LGBTQ organizations and activists as

well as individual LGBTQ people who played some role in the evolution of the D.C. LGBTQ community. The collection, details of which can be accessed on the Rainbow History Project’s website, also includes digitized audio recordings of the oral history interviews of LGBTQ people from the D.C. area.

The DC History Center, which was founded in 1804, describes itself on its website as a community-supported nonprofit organization that “collects, interprets, and shares the history of the nation’s capital through research and scholarship, adult programs, youth education, and exhibits.”

In an announcement on its website, the DC History Center called the June 23 event featuring the three Naval Academy students an important part of its work.

“For the second year in a row, DC History Center hosts students from the US Naval Academy for a crash course in DC LGBTQ+ history and archives, featuring the Rainbow History Project collections,” the website message says.

The DC History Center has become the “perfect group” to store and provide access for researchers and the public to Rainbow History Project’s archival collection “because they’re dedicated to local Washington, D.C. history,” Slatt told the Blade. “And we want all of our gay history to be part of Washington local history,” he said.

Anne McDonough, deputy director of the DC History Center, told those attending the June 23 event that the Center has had an excellent working relationship with Rainbow History Project, which has helped the public and researchers gain access to the archival records of local LGBTQ history.

During their presentation at the June 23 event, the three cadets presented photographic slides of some of the LGBTQ people whose oral history interviews they transcribed. The three said they each obtained an important understanding and knowledge of the D.C.-area’s LGBTQ history from listening to the oral history interviews.

The Rainbow History Project’s archives can be accessed at rainbowhistory.org.

$2.1 million grant program to aid LGBTQ restaurants, bars renewed Grubhub, National LGBT Chamber to support small LGBTQ businesses

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce and the global online food delivery company Grubhub will continue a $2.1 million grant program they began last year to provide financial support to struggling “LGBTQ+ owned and ally” restaurants and bars through 2022 and 2023, according to LGBT Chamber President Justin Nelson.

In a June 28 statement, Nelson said last year’s program provided nearly $2.1 million in grants to more than 100 LGBTQ+ and allied restaurants in 2021. At the time the program was announced last year, organizers said the grants would range from $5,000 to $100,000 for qualifying restaurants and bars that serve food from a menu to help them with financial difficulties related to the COVID pandemic.

Grubhub provided the funds for the grants through the Grubhub Community Fund, which, among other things, raises funds from Grubhub customers through its Donate the Change program. Nelson said more than 30 LGBTQ+ affiliate chambers from across the country helped the national group select which restaurants and bars were awarded the grants in 2021.

CHANCE E. MITCHELL and JUSTIN G. NELSON of NGLCC announced the grant program for restaurants and bars is being renewed. (Blade file photo by Michael Key)

The D.C. LGBTQ sports bar Pitchers and A League of Her Own, its adjoining lesbian bar, were among the program’s recipients of a $100,000 grant last November.

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“Building on last year’s success, we are continuing our partnership with Grubhub in 2022 with the support of a $2.1 million grant from the Grubhub Community Fund,” Nelson said in his statement. “This year, we will focus the restaurant grant program on LGBTQ+ and allied restaurants and establishments in New York City, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Denver, and Portland, as well as cities throughout California,” Nelson said.

Nia Perkovich, a spokesperson for the Grubhub Community Fund, said LGBTQ or allied restaurants and bars that are eligible for the grants will not be restricted to the “focus” cities. She said the grant recipients for the renewed program this year will likely represent a “wide geographic array” throughout the country.

She said the 2022-2023 grant cycle has not yet opened, but full details of how to apply for the grants will be announced at the time the program officially opens for this year.

“Eligible establishments include any LGBTQ+ owned or LGBTQ+ ally-owned restaurant, bar or café that serves food,” Perkovich said.

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June 21, 2022

Vote in D.C.’s ‘LGBTQ precincts’ divided between Bowser, White

Bonds loses in 10 of 13 precincts with high concentration of queer voters

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

Voters in 13 of the city’s 144 electoral precincts that LGBTQ activists have long said include a high concentration of LGBTQ residents and voters divided their vote between D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and D.C. Councilmember Robert White, her lead rival, in the city’s June 21 Democratic primary.

In the D.C. Board of Elections final but unofficial vote tally for the primary, which it released on July 3, Bowser beat Robert White (D-At-Large) in seven of the 13 socalled LGBTQ precincts. Robert White won in six of the precincts. The two mayoral candidates won or lost in the 13 precincts mostly by a close margin of less than 5 percent.

The other two Democratic mayoral candidates, Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White and former attorney and former Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner James Butler, received less than 10 percent of the vote in each of the 13 precincts in question.

The precincts include the neighborhoods of Dupont Circle, Logan Circle, Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, Shaw, Capitol Hill, Anacostia, and the Southwest Waterfront.

In the race for the D.C. Council Chair, incumbent Phil Mendelson and his only Democratic opponent, attorney and community activist Erin Palmer, each won six of the 13 LGBTQ precincts. The two finished in a tie vote in Precinct 90, which is part of the Capitol Hill neighborhood, with each receiving 294 votes or 49.75 percent of the vote in that precinct, according to the Board of Elections final returns.

In the At-Large Council race, incumbent Councilmember Anita Bonds (D-At-Large), a longtime supporter of the LGBTQ community, did not fare as well as Bowser and Mendelson in the LGBTQ precincts. Bonds won in just three of the 13 precincts – those in Logan Circle, Shaw, and Anacostia.

Among her three opponents in the four-candidate race in the primary, attorney Nate Fleming won six of the precincts and ANC Commissioner Lisa Gore won in four of the LGBTQ precincts.

The fourth candidate running for the at-large seat, former DC Council staffer and former Howard University community relations official Dexter Williams, received less than 10 percent of the vote in each of the 13 precincts and lost in all of them.

The candidates challenging Bonds for the at-large Council seat – as well as all the Democratic candidates running for mayor and the Council Chair seat – expressed strong support for LGBTQ rights. Bonds’s poor showing in the LGBTQ precincts suggests that at least some LGBTQ voters may have voted for Fleming and Gore instead of Bonds based on other issues.

Bonds won the primary with 35.85 percent of the vote, with Gore receiving 28.08 percent of the vote and Fleming receiving 27.73 percent, according to the Board of Elections final vote count.

In the race for mayor, Bowser won the primary with 49.01 percent of the citywide vote. Robert White received 40.5 percent, Trayon White received 8.79 percent, and Butler received 1.38 percent.

In the Council chair race, Mendelson, a longtime LGBTQ rights supporter, won the citywide vote with 53.16 percent compared to challenger Palmer, who re-

Final Pre-Certified Citywide Vote

DC Democratic Primary, CountJune 21, 2022 Final Pre-Certified Citywide Vote Count CITYWIDE # Board of Elections

DC MAYOR

James Butler

1,753

1.38%

Muriel Bowser

62,391

49.01%

Trayon White

11,193

8.79%

Robert White

51,557

40.5%

406

0.32%

Write-In

DC Democratic Primary, June 21, 2022 Final Pre-Certified Precinct Vote Count

Precincts with High Concentration of LGBTQ voters

Board of Elections

PRECINCT 14

#

Dupont Circle

James Butler

21

2.16%

James Butler

18

1.32%

Muriel Bowser

488

50.26%

Muriel Bowser

508

37.27%

MAYOR BOWSER won her primary race over Robert White, taking seven of the 13 precincts with high concentrations of LGBTQ voters. (Blade file photo by Michael Key)

Trayon White

16

1.6%

Trayon White

102

7.48%

Robert White

441

45.42%

Robert White

731

53.63%

Write-In

5

0.51%

Write-In

5

0.39%

ceived 46.44 percent.

Four of the 13 precincts considered to have a high concentration of LGBTQ residents and voters are in Ward 1. They include Precincts 24 and 25 in Adams Morgan and Precincts 23 and 36 in Columbia Heights.

The final vote count for those four precincts show that incumbent Councilmember Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1) beat her gay opponent in the Ward 1 race, former D.C. police officer Salah Czapary, in each of the four precincts.

Nadeau won in three of the four precincts by a margin greater than 10 percent of the vote.

In a development that surprised some in the LGBTQ community, Capital Stonewall Democrats, the city’s largest local LGBTQ political organization, endorsed Nadeau over Czapary in the Ward 1 Council race. Czapary received the endorsement of the national LGBTQ Victory Fund as well as from the Washington Post and former D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams.

Activists following the race have said LGBTQ voters who backed Nadeau were clearly basing their vote on issues other than LGBTQ rights, for which Nadeau and a third candidate in the race, community activist Sabel Harris, have expressed support.

Nadeau won the Ward 1 primary with 48.46 percent of the vote. Czapary received 30.94 percent, with Harris receiving 20.36 percent.

In the Ward 5 D.C. Council contest, gay D.C. Board of Education member Zachary Parker won the primary in a seven-candidate race, placing him in a strong position to win the November general election and become the first openly gay member of the D.C. Council since 2015. The Blade couldn’t immediately identify precincts in Ward 5 that may have significant numbers of LGBTQ voters.

In the mayor’s race, Bowser and Robert White each won and lost one of the two LGBTQ precincts in Dupont Circle and Logan Circle by close margins. Bowser beat Robert White in Dupont Circle Precinct 14 by a margin of 50.26 percent to 45.42 percent. But Robert White won in the adjacent Dupont Circle Precinct 15 by a margin of 49.0 percent to 48.17 percent over Bowser.

The mayor won the Logan Circle Precinct 16 by a vote of 54.29 percent compared to Robert White, who received 41.12 percent. In the Logan Circle Precinct 17, Robert White beat Bowser by a margin of 48.29 percent to 46.33 percent.

PRECINCT 15

Dupont Circle

PRECINCT 129

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James Butler

16

1.33%

Muriel Bowser

579

48.17%

Trayon White

17

1.41%

Robert White

589

49.0%

Write-In

2

0.17%

PRECINCT 16

Logan Circle

Columbia Heights

Shaw

James Butler

43

Muriel Bowser

1300 50.37%

1.67%

Trayon White

148

Robert White

1081 41.88%

Write-In

9

0.35%

James Butler

12

0.98%

Muriel Bowser

677

55.22%

Trayon White

14

1.14%

Robert White

521

42.5%

Write-In

2

0.16%

PRECINCT 89

5.73%

Capitol Hill

James Butler

21

Muriel Bowser

734

54.29%

Trayon White

34

2.51%

Robert White

556

41.12%

Write-In

7

0.23%

PRECINCT 90

Logan Circle

James Butler

7

Muriel Bowser

349

56.75%

Trayon White

11

1.79%

PRECINCT 17

1.55%

PRECINCT 36

Capitol Hill 1.14%

James Butler

32

2.24%

Muriel Bowser

663

46.33%

Robert White

246

40.0%

Trayon White

43

3.0%

Write-In

3

0.51%

Robert White

691

48.29%

Write-In

2

0.14%

PRECINCT 24

Adams Morgan

PRECINCT 127

Southwest Waterfront

James Butler

13

0.84%

Muriel Bowser

778

50.23%

James Butler

14

1.2%

Trayon White

128

8.26%

Muriel Bowser

541

46.48%

Robert White

628

40.54%

Trayon White

9

0.77%

Write-In

2

0.13%

Robert White

594

51.03%

Write-In

6

0.52%

PRECINCT 25

Adams Morgan

James Butler

20

1.1%

Muriel Bowser

883

48.49%

Trayon White

19

94%

Robert White

895

49.15%

Write-In

4

0.23%

PRECINCT 23

#

Columbia Heights

James Butler

20

1.87%

Muriel Bowser

455

42.6%

Trayon White

49

4.59%

Robert White

541

50.66%

Write-In

3

0.58%

PRECINCT 112

Anacostia

James Butler

18

3.59%

Muriel Bowser

277

45.35%

Trayon White

107

21.36%

Robert White

148

29.54%

Write-In

1

0.2%

1

There’s more than one big, progressive New York city, and we’ve got the LGBTQ+ community to prove it.

In fact, they call Buffalo “The City of Good Neighbors,” because love and inclusivity are a big part of who we are. Check out LGBTQBuffalo.com, or, better still, come visit. You’ll see what we mean.

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Meet 5 gay, lesbian incumbents on Maryland ballots State primary scheduled for July 19

By CARIS WHITE & JOSH ALBURTUS

The Washington Blade last week spoke with five openly gay and lesbian candidates who are either running for office or are seeking re-election in Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Howard Counties.

Montgomery County Councilmember Evan Glass Evan Glass serves as the vice president of the Montgomery County Council and as its first openly LGBTQ member. Previously working for 12 years as a CNN journalist, he was first elected in 2018.

Glass told the Blade that running to continue as a member of the Council was rooted in the change that has been able to be made thus far.

“When I first raised the Pride flag in an official manner in 2019, I received a lot of pushback and hate,” Glass said.

“But we persisted and have continued expanding Pride events and celebrating our beautiful diversity.”

Since his election, Glass’ initiatives in Montgomery County have included a host of local legislation aimed at promoting and furthering social justice and LGBTQ equality in the county.

Along with measures, such as the county’s Housing Justice Act and Oversight and Small Business Investment Act, Glass’ efforts led to the Council to pass its Pay Equity Act designed close the gender wage gap by modifying how the county determines salaries for employees. He also worked to spearhead the passage of the county’s LGBTQ Bill of Rights, which expanded its anti-discrimination code to include gender expression and HIV status and ban discrimination in areas such as healthcare facilities, nursing homes and personal care facilities.

As he makes his bid for reelection later this summer, Glass said that he hopes to expand on the accomplishments he has been able to make so far.

“I’m proud of my work to create more affordable housing, to make our buses free for all youth, and to keep our residents healthy and safe during the pandemic,” Glass said. “These efforts haven’t been easy, but they are critical to fostering a more fair and equitable community.”

Montgomery County Circuit Court Clerk Karen Bushell Karen Bushell grew up in the Midwest before moving to the D.C. area in 1985, where she met her wife in 1995.

Bushell had four children and her wife had two children when they met, and according to Bushell, “we had a very, very busy house.”

Bushell started serving in the judiciary in 2001 — as an HR associate, and then as a judicial assistant for many years. When Barbara Michael retired as Clerk of the Court in April 2021, Bushell was appointed to the position, making her the first openly LGBTQ person to hold it.

The Clerk of the Court serves as an independent record keeper of what happens in the courts, and Bushell described the clerk’s role as primarily that of a public servant.

“I love my job; I love being part of the judiciary. Being a public servant, it’s always good to know at the end of the day, that you help somebody,” Bushell said. “I think being a public servant is something that is important to me, so that is one of the reasons that that I’m running.”

P.G. Public Schools Board of Education member Pamela Boozer-Strother Pamela Boozer-Strother first became involved in LGBTQ and reproductive rights advocacy in the late 1980s as

part of what was then called the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association. During the decade she spent working with NLGJA; she worked towards inclusive workplace policies, fair and accurate news coverage of LGBTQ issues, and domestic partner benefits.

After living in Adams Morgan for years, Boozer-Strother moved to Prince George’s County with her spouse Margaret, where they adopted a child and built a life together. Boozer-Strother first became involved in the school system when her son started attending public school in Prince George’s County, and in 2018 she ran for the Board of Education and won.

“I had an opportunity to make a difference by being visible, and finding other gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender families and staff — and ultimately, students — and helping to build that network of support,” Boozer-Strother said. “It’s taken some time; I ran for the board in 2018 as an out candidate and I won, and I am thrilled to live in a community that saw that as an asset.”

Boozer-Strother has worked extensively on school construction, educational equity policy, LGBTQ-inclusive curricula and the board’s climate change action plan.

“Of course, I focused in on the relevance of my representation and my skills and background that I could bring to [my platform.] But really, I got into this because of school construction,” Boozer-Strother said. “I’m really proud to say that, as of today, seven projects that serve District 3 students are fully funded.”

senting. And for me, what was so important is that I made it very clear who I am, and that I didn’t shy away or hide that part of myself, because to me, you’re not breaking the [glass] ceiling if people don’t even know the ceiling existed. I think that we’ve never had an openly elected LGBTQ+ person sit on our County Council before,” Oriadha said.

“I think what this will show is that you can run and be yourself and it won’t cost you anything. I think that’s what is so important about this election.”

P.G. County Council candidate Krystal Oriadha Krystal Oriadha studied business at Howard University before getting an MBA and working at Hewlitt-Packard.

After a few years with HP, Oriadha moved back to the DMV area, where she said that “I wanted to use my skill set to help people and make an impact.”

Oriadha has now been a community organizer and advocate for more than 12 years — she worked with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on human trafficking prevention, reproductive healthcare, domestic violence campaigns and tribal nations issues for about four years before she made her first run for office, for the same seat for which she is running now. Although Oriadha lost that election by 30 votes, she became the new council member’s policy director, which gave her the chance to work on making legislation as a staffer.

“I think I learned that I wanted to be the principal even more, because they had the ability to make deals, cancel what I thought was really good legislation,” Oriadha said.

“It’s really different when you’re the person that gets the make that last call — that’s the difference between having a seat at the table and being outside of the room when decisions are being made.”

Oriadha currently serves as the executive director of PG Change Makers, a local nonprofit she co-founded after returning to Prince George’s County to do community work in the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder. Although she was not initially planning to run for office again, Oriadha said that she is doing so at the request of her community.

“I was not planning on running again because it is a lot of work and I never really cared about being elected, but the community is asking me to, so I decided to go ahead and give it another try,” Oriadha said.

Oriadha said that proudly representing all aspects of her identity is a crucial part of her campaign.

“When I first ran, there was a lot of talk about how not to talk about the LGBTQ+ part, because I’m straight pre-

Howard County Register of Wills Byron Macfarlane Howard County Register of Wills Byron Macfarlane has served in the position since 2010 and was the first openly LGBTQ person elected in Howard County.

Along with his involvement in a plethora of state and local groups and organizations and being admitted to the state bar association, Macfarlane gained experience working for multiple prominent lawyers and politicians including County Councilman Guy Guzzone, Circuit Court Judge Richard Bernhardt, state Sen. Edward Kasemeyer and the late-U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy (D-Mass.)

During his tenure in office, Macfarlane has made supporting the LGBTQ community an integral facet of his identity as a public official and a fellow citizen.

“Queer kids see the hate coming from the dark corners of our community,” Macfarlane wrote on Twitter. “They need to hear from us — from you — that we love and support every one of them.”

Since being elected, Macfarlane has overseen a number of reforms implemented in the Register’s office, including modernization of its technological aspects and a cut on taxpayer expenditures for antiquated procedures.

Modernizing the Register’s office and leading on reform, while also being receptive to his constituents, Macfarlane has said, have been some of his top priorities.

“I’ve proven myself as a reliable and responsive figure in our local government, that I’ve been extremely effective delivering meaningful reform, and that now more than ever our community needs steady, forward-looking leadership they can trust,” Macfarlane told the Blade. “I’m running for re-election because representation matters, because I want to continue serving the public with professionalism, compassion, and fairness, and because I want to continue pushing reforms to make probate faster, fairer and less expensive for Marylanders.”

(Editor’s note: Somerset Mayor Jeffrey Slavin, who is openly gay, won re-election on May 10.)

From left: Prince George’s County Public Schools Board of Education member PAMELA BOOZER-STROTHER, Montgomery County Circuit Court Clerk KAREN BUSHELL, Prince George’s County Council candidate KRYSTAL ORIADHA (Courtesy photos)

LO CA L NE WS • J ULY 0 8 , 2 0 2 2 • WA S H I N GTO N B L A D E.CO M • 1 1

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Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ law goes into effect

Florida’s HB 1557, known as the “Don’t Say Gay” law, took effect this week. The law, which bans classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in grades K-3 and restricts that instruction in grades 4-12, will immediately begin impacting efforts to make Florida classrooms more inclusive.

But its impacts have already been felt for months. Educators and school staff have shared the chilling effects they are experiencing across the state. Books with LGBTQ characters are being pulled from shelves. Rainbow “safe space” stickers are being peeled from classroom windows. LGBTQ educators are being asked to avoid speaking about their families. As the law officially goes into effect, these impacts will escalate.

“Since the inception of this hateful policy, lawmakers have assured the public that it would not lead to censorship or erasure of LGBTQ people,” said Joe Saunders, Equality Florida Senior Political Director. “But our community has always known the truth. The Don’t Say LGBTQ law has always been fueled by anti-LGBTQ animus and designed to further stigmatize the LGBTQ community, ban books about us, erase us from classrooms, and force us back into the closet. It is a bigoted and dangerous law that is making Florida less safe for students and families, and we will work tirelessly to see

it repealed.”

Throughout the legislative process, lawmakers scoffed at the suggestion that HB 1557 would have negative impacts on the LGBTQ community, even as they refused to clarify its dangerously vague language and prevent the eventual law from doing harm.

A bipartisan contingent of lawmakers offered up dozens of amendments to the bill, attempting to narrow its overly broad scope and clarify the most vague components. These amendments came after assertions from their colleagues that the bill’s intent was narrow.

However, those reasonable amendments were rejected by bill sponsors Representative Joe Harding, Senator Dennis Baxley, and their allies, leaving its language broad and discriminatory.

As a result, the chilling effects were swift and sweeping. Across the state, censorship of LGBTQ lives began in earnest and continues. In Palm Beach County, School Superintendent Mike Burke began by circumventing the district’s material review process to remove multiple books featuring LGBTQ characters, citing concern about the implications of the “Don’t Say Gay” law. He followed the move in recent weeks by issuing guidance to educators across the district for them to remove books currently being challenged and place them “in

JACK PETOCZ (with bullhorn) leads Flagler Palm Coast High School protest against Florida’s new law.

(Photo by Alysa Vidal)

a classroom closet” and scour their shelves for other titles that may include LGBTQ characters or mention topics like racism or oppression.

Equality Florida has received more than 50 complaints of censorship aimed at the LGBTQ community since the bill was signed into law in March.

BRODY LEVESQUE

Rapinoe among 17 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients

MEGAN RAPINOE

(Screen capture via U.S. Soccer YouTube)

The White House last week announced President Joe Biden’s selection of recipients for bestowing the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The awards were to be presented at the White House on July 7.

Included among the 17 honorees is Megan Rapinoe, the out Olympic gold medalist and two-time Women’s World Cup champion. She also captains OL Reign in the National Women’s Soccer League. She is a prominent advocate for gender pay equality, racial justice and LGBTQ rights.

Also selected by the president for a posthumous recognition was Richard Trumka, the powerful labor leader and longtime Democratic ally of the LGBTQ community who passed away last August. Trumka had led the AFL-CIO since 2009 and who throughout his career, was an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ Americans, social and economic justice.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the U.S., world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.

BRODY LEVESQUE

Bette Midler July 4 tweet interpreted as ‘transphobic’

A July 4 tweet by gay icon Bette Midler to her 2.1 million followers has LGBTQ advocacy groups and activists labeling the language transphobic.

The 76-year-old award-winning actress and singer was responding to the ongoing aftershocks of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling last month that overturned Roe v. Wade.

Midler has been a consistent supporter of LGBTQ people including presenting awards at both GLAAD and Human Rights Campaign events. Because of this stance previously, many in the LGBTQ community are dismayed at the language chosen in her tweet.

Midler wrote: “WOMEN OF THE WORLD! We are being stripped of our rights over our bodies, our lives and even of our name!

“They don’t call us ‘women’ anymore; they call us ‘birthing people’ or ‘menstruators,’ and even ‘people with vaginas!’ Don’t let them erase you! Every human on earth owes you!”

The immediate response chided the Grammy winner for her use of language that has been part of the consistent transphobic messaging by right-wing conservative groups

BETTE MIDLER

(Blade file photo by Michael Key)

and other celebrities such “Harry Potter” author JK Rowling who has gained a reputation for being a TERF (the acronym for trans-exclusionary radical feminist,) also referred to as “Gender Critical.”

Increasingly anti-transgender activists, particularly anti-trans extremists in both the U.S. and the U.K. have slammed healthcare officials for encouraging staff to use

1 4 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • JULY 08, 202 2 • NAT I O NA L NE WS

phrases such as “birthing people” alongside women or co-parents when treating LGBTQ patients, among other inclusive terms. Often claiming that using gender-neutral terms all but “erases” women when it isn’t actually the case PinkNewsUK noted.

GLAAD President Sarah Kate Ellis reacted on Twitter writing: “From Pamela Paul in the opinion pages of the New York Times to right-wing activists including Jordan Peterson to notables like Bette Midler and Macy Gray, the recent anti-transgender rhetoric in the media and online is contributing to the dangerous and completely inaccurate narrative that trans people are somehow threatening the overall rights of cisgender women. Women and trans people are in a common fight for bodily autonomy and the right to privacy. Cisgender women, trans people and nonbinary people must stand together against those who seek to divide us. As a feminist and a cisgender woman, I will never stop fighting for my trans and nonbinary friends, family and colleagues.”

BRODY LEVESQUE

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Griner asks Biden to help secure release

Detained WNBA star Brittney Griner over the weekend appealed directly to President Joe Biden in a letter to help secure her release.

The Washington Post reported the White House received Griner’s letter on Monday.

“As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever,” reads the letter, according to the Post. “I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don’t forget about me and the other American detainees … Please do all you can to bring us home.

I voted for the first time in 2020 and I voted for you. I believe in you. I still have so much good to do with my freedom that you can help restore. I miss my wife! I miss my family! I miss my teammates! It kills me to know they are suffering so much right now. I am grateful for whatever you can do at this moment to get me home.”

Officials at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport in February detained Griner — a Phoenix Mercury center and two-time Olympic gold medalist who is a lesbian and married to her wife, Cherelle Griner, — after customs inspectors allegedly found hashish oil in her luggage. The State Department has determined that Russia

BRITTNEY GRINER

(Screenshot via Russian television)

“wrongfully detained” her.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Elizabeth Rood and other American diplomats attended the first day of Brittney Griner’s trial that began on July 1 in Moscow. Brittney Griner faces up to 10 years in prison if she is convicted.

The Council for Global Equality and the Human Rights Campaign are among the dozens of advocacy groups who signed a letter to Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris that urged them to do more to secure Brittney Griner’s release. The U.S. House of Representatives on June 24 approved a resolution that called upon Russia to immediately release her.

Cherelle Griner last week during an interview with CNN said the White House needs to do more to secure her wife’s release.

Vanessa Nygaard, the Phoenix Mercury’s head coach, on Monday said she hopes Brittney Griner’s letter “some people are paying attention to it and of course the Biden administration and our State Department put it at the front of their messaging.” Nygaard during the press conference also said Brittney Griner’s detention has not received as much attention because of who she is.

“If it’s Lebron (James) he’d be home,” said Nygaard. “It’s a statement about the value of women. It’s a statement about the value of a Black person. It’s a statement about the value of a gay person … it’s all of those things, and we know it.”

MICHAEL K. LAVERS

Singapore will not prosecute ‘people engaging in gay sex’

A Singapore government minister last week said his country will not prosecute anyone under a colonial-era law that criminalizes consensual same-sex sexual relations.

“People engaging in gay sex will not be prosecuted, even though there is this old piece of law which makes gay sex among males an offense,” said Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam on June 29 during an interview on BBC’s “HARDtalk” program. “The attorney general has confirmed that position and the Supreme Court has said that the government’s position is legal for us.”

Singapore is among the dozens of countries in which consensual same-sex sexual relations remain criminalized.

The country’s Court of Appeal in February upheld a

lower court decision that dismissed three lawsuits against Section 377A of Singapore’s penal code. Shanmugam acknowledged a “significant proportion of our population — the middle ground as it were — don’t want that law repealed.”

“Attitudes are shifting somewhat, but still Singapore government can’t ignore those views, so we have arrived at this sort of messy compromise the last 15 years and we have taken this path because these issues are difficult,” he said. “They are not easily settled and we have made clear that LGBTQ+ individuals are entitled to live peacefully without being attacked or threatened.”

“This is a compromise that we have arrived at because of where our society is and if you believe in a democracy you’ve got to take into account where your main ground

is,” added Shanmugam.

Shanmugam spoke with the BBC less than a week after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Shanmugam during the interview specifically referenced Justice Clarence Thomas and his assertion the U.S. Supreme Court should reconsider its rulings in the Obergefell and Lawrence cases that extended marriage equality to samesex couples and the right to private, consensual sex.

“Our approach: Deal with these issues in Parliament,” said Shanmugam. “I’ve said earlier this year that we are relooking at our laws and our laws have to change and keep pace with the times and the Singaporean way we are engaging in a wide set of consultations to try and arrive at some set of landing.”

MICHAEL K. LAVERS

London Pride celebrates 50th anniversary

Saturday marked the 50th anniversary of Pride in London, the first was led by the Gay Liberation Front in 1972.

According to the BBC more than one million people thronged the streets of the British capital, ranking it as one of the largest LGBTQ events in Europe.

In a Sunday interview with BBC Radio, Chris Joell-Deshields, director of London Pride, said it was important as it provided a great level of visibility for LGBTQ rights.

“We’re able to provide that form of visibility, unity, quality, that the world can see and it sends a message of solidarity to those persons who may be thinking ‘I can’t be open’, ‘I can’t be visible or I’ll be prosecuted in my country,” he said.

“The battles have not all been won. Yes we’ve had some magnificent achievements, whether or not that’s equal marriage, the repeal of Section 28, the lifting of the ban of homosexuals and lesbians in the military, but we’ve still got a journey to go,” he told BBC Radio.

“Every day we’re continuing to have to fight for our trans

‘Heartstopper’ actors troll anti-LGBTQ protesters at Pride in London 2022. (Screenshot/Twitter)

people and making it a fair life for them. We’re still having to fight for those around the world who live in countries where they can’t be themselves,” Joell-Deshields added.

Reflecting on the masses gathered at Traflagar Square

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Joell-Deshields noted: “Yesterday when we were in Trafalgar Square, and we were chanting ‘trans rights are human rights,’ we were pushing that so that volume of noise was heard at Downing Street and beyond, to the millions or people on the footprint and thousands on the parade.

“That sends a powerful message to politicians and others that we’re here, we’re proud and loud, and we’re going to continue to fight.”

Echoing Joell-Deshields, London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who was in attendance Saturday told PinkNewsUK the LGBTQ community and allies “can’t be complacent” in the fight for equality.

The mayor stressed that it was important to celebrate the hard won rights that the UK’s LGBTQ community has fought for over the last 50 years including the “end of Section 28”, the introduction of same-sex marriage and the approval of “laws to protect this community.”

BRODY LEVESQUE

J ULY 0 8 , 2 0 2 2 • WA S H I N GTO N B L A D E.CO M • 1 7

ANDREW A. ISEN

is the founder and president of WinMark Concepts, Inc., a D.C.-based marketing and communications agency focused on the LGBTQ community.

Valued vs. values: Companies navigate Pride 2022 There are values that cannot be ignored for enhancement of profitability

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As Pride month ends, companies that wrapped the LGBTQ consumer segment with rainbows are about to face a crucial reckoning.

Previously, companies seeking to profit from the $1 trillion LGBTQ spending engine, did so through social justice and relatable marketing messaging. Successful outreach to this consumer created emotional connections that were predicated on action; action that invested in the LGBTQ community and more personally, to the LGBTQ consumers themselves.

What makes this year different? As of this writing, 19 conservative states, led by Florida and Alabama, have passed or drafted anti-LGBTQ legislation for the purpose of creating problems masquerading as solutions. With untruthful and dishonest legislation, these states are acting with hostile intent, putting corporations in a bind between shareholders and stakeholders.

With influential minorities of culturally incendiary malcontents enacting anti-LGBTQ statutes, corporations are faced with critical decisions. There are values that cannot be ignored for the enhancement of profitability. The social justice and relatable messaging they so heartily embraced cannot be so summarily contradicted or discarded.

In 2021, new research showed that 20% of millennials ages 25-34, now identify as LGBTQ. This seismic shift represents unparalleled purchasing power in the U.S. Not to be underestimated is their power and outsize impact as social media ‘influencers’ on brand building and purchasing decisions. LGBTQ influencers have surged on all the main platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram. This community is extremely knowledgeable, and act based on who supports them and who does not. And, to restate the obvious, their brand loyalty and vast spending power are widely recognized by corporate America.

Anti-LGBTQ voices and their related noxious actions are anathema to LGBTQ existence. Proactive political contributions, and passive silence to those fighting LGBTQ rights both have consequences. Companies are no longer able to straddle a fine line, “having it both ways.” The simple question is, “do you support the LGBTQ community or not?” Investing in one side with hostile intent, while seeking to profit from the other side, begs the question of whether a company lacks values entirely.

There is little disagreement that a company’s first responsibility is to their shareholders. But responsibility is not simply measured in dollars and cents. A company’s values: how it comports itself, be it through hiring practices, work rules, human resources, and community outreach are part of its accountability to shareholders.

There is also a company’s responsibility to its stakeholders: employees and customers. It’s a well-documented fact that diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts strongly benefit the bottom line. Socially conscious potential employees have a substantially larger pool of jobs to choose from, therefore, corporations are recruiting from a workforce that demands equality and fairness. Consumers in all categories vote with their wallets. They repeatedly connect with, and are loyal to brands that they believe in. Both stakeholders and shareholders are hypersensitive to these values, and will judge, and demonstrate their beliefs. Neither group can be alienated.

Salient advice for Pride 2022 would be that companies take stances that are in the interests of shareholders and stakeholders, reflecting the values critical to both. And, most importantly, they must demonstrate to the LGBTQ consumer segment their commitment to their value-based business practices. Thinking long term is percipient. Just as corporate America withstood and prevailed against the cultural arguments surrounding the Defense of Marriage Act, they must now stand against this enveloping hatred and bigotry. As George Santayany so eloquently stated, “those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

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Find him on Instagram @isaacamend.

The hypocrisy of Elon Musk Once bullied himself, the billionaire now bullies trans community

Elon Musk was once a hero to me. Like many other people, I viewed him as -206 S 5TH AVENUE, DENTON, MD 21629 US a renegade — a businessman who had overcome This big and beautiful home sits on an intown 1.44 acre lot. This amazing homes interior a bit of personal adversity features are grand and exciting. The homes features a rare, vintage carriage house. to build one of the most successful car companies The home has a pool and scads of details. in the world, and be a pioVisit the website https://mls.truplace.com/property/1146/113073/ neer in his field. Today, Tesor call Martha Suss @410-310-4856 for a tour of this magnificent gem. la stock is worth $706, but it has peaked at $1,229, and MARTHA WITTE SUSS, ASSOCIATE BROKER it is ever more common to Easton, St. Michaels, Cambridge and Denton, Maryland find Musk’s electric cars Come Join us in the Land of Pleasant Living - The Eastern Shore of Maryland dotting the streets of major Cell: 410-310-4856 | Office: 410-770- 3600 cities and townships. Teslas https://www.longandfoster.com/MarthaWitteSuss seem to be the future.

Despite his success, Musk has consistently shown disdain toward transgender people, and even hatred toward our community. Just last month, Musk’s teenage daughter, who is a transgender woman, sought separation from her father, claiming he is hateful toward her and does not support her trans identity. His daughter has masked her new name in court documents, but was formerly known as Xavier.

It’s ironic that Musk is attacking our vulnerable community. Musk was bullied relentlessly as a child. In South Africa, he was bullied so badly that he had to be hospitalized from wounds inflicted by his classmates. Musk was seen as a strange kid — one who was quiet and introverted, probably very smart, but also full of quirks that made him a target of bullies.

Musk has stood up for alternative lifestyles and communities. He has given his children unique names. One of them was called “X AE A-XII”, and in shorthand just known as “X.” He has said that traditional schools are “useless” and has preferred to homeschool his children. At one point, Musk lived in a $50,000 home, despite being a billionaire. He has smoked weed on the Joe Rogan podcast and has shared his views for a government on Mars.

Yet despite having been bullied for his quirks, Musk has still found time to be a bully to the trans community. He has mocked pronouns on Twitter, A DV E RT I SI N G P RO OF after his ex-girlfriend Grimes started dating transgender woman Chelsea ISSUE DATE: 22-07-08 SALES REPRESENTATIVE: BRIAN PITTS bpitts@washblade.com Manning. Furthermore, Musk has recently signaled support for Ron DeSantis, the anti-trans governor of Florida. DeSantis wants to ban transition REVIEW AD FOR COPY AND DESIGN ACCURACY. Revisions must be submitted within 24 hours of the date of proof. Proof will be considered final and will be submitted for publication if revision is not submitted within 24 hours of the date of proof. Revisions will not be accepted after 12:01 pm wednesday, the week of publication.Brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington health care for all trans youth and prevent them from playing sports. blade) is not responsible for the content and/or design of your ad. Advertiser is responsible for any legal liability arising out of or relating to the advertisement, and/or any material to which users can link through the advertisement. Advertiser represents that Musk’s daughter’s estrangement from her father is likely a symptom of its advertisement will not violate any criminal laws or any rgihts of third parties, including, but not limited to, such violations as ONS infringement or misapporpriation of any copyright, patent, trademark, trade secret, music, image, or other proprietary or propety right, false advertising, unfair competition, defamation, invasion of privacy or rights of celebrity, violation of anti-discrimination Musk’s own transphobia.

O REVISIONS law or regulation, or any other right of any person or entity. Advertiser agrees to idemnify brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) and to hold brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) harmless from any and all liability, ADVERTISER SIGNATURE S Unfortunately, many in corporate America will still laud the Tesla CEO loss, damages, claims, or causes of action, including reasonable legal fees and expenses that may be incurred by brown naff pitts By signing this proof you are agreeing to your contract obligations with the washington omnimedia llc, arising out of or related to advertiser’s breach of any of the foregoing representations and warranties. blade newspaper. This includes but is not limited to placement, payment and insertion for his accomplishments. The rise and existence of the “Musk tech bro” or schedule.

“Musk finance bro” —euphemisms for young men who idolize Musk’s intelligent chaos — will not go away. This is in the same fashion that many still idolize Joe Rogan, who goes on aggressive rants against trans women in his podcast.

It is clear that the future does not lie with Elon Musk. If he continues his spiteful approach to the trans community, then his legacy will be tainted permanently. It’s in the hands of young Americans to reject the urge to idolize him.

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DILEK İÇTEN

is a journalist, researcher and civil society expert with a history of working in interdisciplinary and investigative research projects examining the socio-cultural dynamics of media, gender and migration.

Turkey Pride crackdowns only strengthen LGBTQ resistance Hundreds arrested in Istanbul during government assault

The waving colors of the thousand shades inside of a rainbow. The sparkling joy from the pride and honor of self-declaration. The echoing sounds of the steps for solidarity in the cobblestone streets of İstanbul. To unite for equality, for justice, for solely our right to be.

This was our goal, our expectation and our hope for Pride Turkey 2022. It has, however, been overshadowed by the government’s vicious attempts to repress the colors of the LGBTQI+ community.

First, it started with the ban of Pride speeches and panels that many district governors and other local authorities across Turkey announced. Local police officers raided the many event venues as if “illegal” activities were being conducted.

As in the last couple of years, it was already expected the government would ban Pride marches in many cities. It was, however, the first time the government officially tried to prevent even face-to-face community gatherings of LGBTQI+ organizations. It was a type of intervention reflecting the level of fear and intolerance of the government regarding the growing connection, solidarity and public visibility of LGBTQI+ community.

Istanbul, Turkey - June 2013: People in Taksim Square for Istanbul LGBT pride parade.

(Bigstock Photo)

Nevertheless, oppression often brings out the most creative means. As such, Pride committees have carried all the activities on digital platforms. Many activists and civil society representatives have shown support by participating in live broadcasts from event venues, and the voice of LGBTQI+ solidarity still reached a wide audience.

Subsequently, the most drastic pressure by the government has manifested itself during the Pride marches. The police violently intervened and used disproportionate force against marchers in many cities, which resulted in a radical number of unwarranted detentions.

While 530 LGBTQI+ activists were taken into custody across Turkey, 373 of them were arrested during the Istanbul Pride march on June 26. This constitutes a first, since the Istanbul Pride arrests constituted the largest number of people taken into custody during a street march since the Gezi protests.

Will these enormous efforts to pressure win the day? The answer is “definitely no.” On the contrary, it sparked a backlash by triggering strong solidarity among Turkey’s queer community. The outstanding resistance of LGBTQI+ marchers gained public recognition on social media, while persistent legal support of LGBTQI+ initiatives canceled all the detentions. In the end, the exhaustive pressures of the government could not manage to fade the multicolor of LGBTQI+ identity. In fact, it helped our rainbow flag to shine even more glamorous and visible.

We, as members of the LGBTQI+ community, have once again proved through this entire experience that solidarity, togetherness and collective resistance are the most powerful facilitators in our fight to exist equally.

In honor of the unbreakable resistance of Turkey Pride 2022 supporters, thanks to you, the cobblestones of Istanbul and every street in Turkey echoed with the steps of LGBTQI+ solidarity.

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Save on gas and take a D.C. staycation this summer A roundup of local events to keep you entertained all season

By CARIS WHITE

Renwick Gallery; This Present Moment: Crafting a Better World – Through April 23, 2023. This nearly year-long exhibition at the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian Art Museum highlights art’s ability to create change and shape a more “relational and empathetic world.” It features craft mediums from the Renwick’s permanent collections as well as more than 100 new acquisitions, paying special attention to the often-overFOOD looked history and contributions of BIPOC and women artists.

National Portrait Gallery; Watergate: Portraiture and Intrigue – Through Sept. 5.

The RAMMYS 2022 – July 24. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the RAMMYS, According to the National Portrait Gallery’s website, “On the fiftieth anniversary of the D.C.’s annual restaurant and food service awards ceremony. The event will feature a Watergate break-in, this exhibition silent auction, food, drinks, and a of photographs, paintings, sculpdance floor DJ-ed by music group ture, and works on paper from the Cash Cash.

National Portrait Gallery’s collection A Taste of the DMV: Food, Culbrings visitors face-to-face with the ture & live music festival – July 30. scandal’s cast of characters.” The Experience “Food, Culture, Music exhibition delves into visual biogand Fun” at the Gateway D.C. Pavilraphy as a new way to contemplate ion from 4-10 p.m. on July 30. Busiquestions raised by the crisis’s politnesses from around the D.C.-Maryical and cultural fallout. land-Virginia area will have booths, Capital Fringe Festival – July and there will also be contests, 14-17 and July 21-24. This sumgames, and live performances. mer’s Capital Fringe Festival is a Jollof Festival 2022 – July 30. performing arts showcase featuring The Jollof Festival visits several cit“31 productions, 6 stages, 4 perfories each summer to host vendors mance venues and one official festicooking — and competing — for the val bar,” all located in Georgetown. title of best Jollof rice, a savory West The event is back after a two-year African staple. The Jollof Festival break due to COVID-19, but its goal will come to D.C. at the end of July, of creating an un-curated and unfilheld in the new Sandlot Anacostia tered space for artistic exploration events space. and performance has remained.

Metropolitan Washington Fiesta Asia Street Fair – July 16.

Restaurant Week – Aug. 15-21.

More than 1,000 performers, artiJoin the Restaurant Association of sans and vendors will line PennsylD.C. for a week of fine dining, feavania Avenue in front of Capitol Hill turing “3-course menus for lunch, for a celebration of Asia’s rich and dinner and brunch,” according to diverse heritage. The event is hosttheir Instagram, in addition to “RWed by the Asia Heritage Foundation, To-Go dinner meals and cocktail With gas at $5 per gallon, more Washingtonians are opting to stay close to home this summer. and this summer will mark its 17th pairings.” year commemorating the vast array Around the World Cultural of Asian culture and community.

Food Festival – Aug. 27. This fesDel Rey Artisans Summer Art Market – July 9-10. This two-day event held in Artival boasts “the best of the best” food from every country, with only one restaurant lington will feature a different slate of local artists and artisans each day. Attendees can chosen to represent each country in attendance. In addition to food and drink, there will purchase “original handmade artwork” in a variety of media: ceramics, jewelry, glass, be live song and dance and ethnic artisans and crafters, all hosted at Oronoco Bay Park photography and more will all be on display. in Alexandria, Va. DC JazzFest – Aug. 31 - Sept. 4. The 18th Annual D.C. JazzFest will feature live perARTS & CULTURE formances on multiple waterfront stages at The Wharf, in addition to the DCJazzPrix international band competition at Union Stage. The event is “DC’s Celebration of All Baltimore Museum of Art; Joan Mitchell – Through Aug. 14. The Baltimore MuThings Jazz,” and over 15 different jazz groups and performers will be featured. seum of Art has partnered with San Francisco MoMA to organize a comprehensive retrospective of Joan Mitchel, an American post-war artist who has received internationMISCELLANEOUS al acclaim. Mitchell broke into the male-dominated New York art scene of the 1950s before moving to spend nearly 40 years in France, and in addition to the exhibition’s National Zoo; Birds in Flight – Through Sept. 5. Watch exotic birds take to the air 70 featured works, it includes a collection of photographs, poems and documents that under with acclaimed bird behaviorist Phung Luu at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. The flesh out an understanding of the artist’s multifaceted life. exhibition happens rain or shine, every day besides Tuesday, at the Zoo’s Great Meadow.

It’s summertime in Washington D.C., and the city is teeming with things to do. From new museum exhibitions to city events, and fine dining, there are countless ways to spend a weekend — or longer — in the city. And with gas hovering around $5 per gallon, these ideas will also save you some money.

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My favorite things to do in D.C. after nearly 45 years here A local insider’s look at life in the city

I am a New Yorker by birth and lived there until I was 31.

It was a great place to grow up. There is a kinetic energy to the city and you always need to be ‘on’. In 1978, a job in the Carter administration brought me to D.C. and I never left.

In 1978, D.C. was still a small, slow, southern town. In William Manchester’s book, “Portrait of a President; John F. Kennedy in profile” (1962), he included a famous line: “Washington, John Kennedy once said lightly, is a city of Southern efficiency and Northern charm.” When I moved here it was still partially true.

Today, D.C. is a vibrant city with great theater, restaurants, art galleries, and museums, a beautiful waterfront with access points in Southeast and Southwest in the new Wharf neighborhood, and in Georgetown. From the Mall to exciting neighborhoods there is always plenty to see and do.

D.C. is still much slower than New York, which to me is a good thing. It is an easy city to navigate with good public transportation and is also a good walking city. It is incredibly easy to live here, occupy a week or two as a visitor, or for locals to have a staycation.

I live in Dupont and am always amazed at all the activities available to me within less than a 30-minute walk. Literally dozens of restaurants, many hotels, museums, three theaters, houses of worship and even a great farmers market.

Friends often kid me I live my life all within a one-mile radius from my home. They aren’t really wrong. People can often find me at what my friends call my living room, Java House coffee shop, off 17th on Q street, N.W. Here are some of the other places I can go, and things I

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By PETER ROSENSTEIN can do, within walking distance of my home. If I walk east one block to 17th Street there are restaurants and bars including the famous Annie’s, the Turkish restaurant Agora, two Italian restaurants, Floriana and Dupont Italian Kitchen (better known as DIK). There are two gay bars, JRs and DIK Upstairs. If I walk farther up Q Street there is Hanks Oyster Bar owned by the incredible chef, Jamie Leeds, and then over to 14th Street to Le Diplomate. Along the way I would have passed FIT, a personal training gym where I work out, and the JCC with its gym and great Cecile Goldman Theater.

On 14th Street there is Studio Theater, and a host of restaurants with any kind of food your heart desires. If I then walk over to P Street and head back from 14th to 15th there is the new bagel place (be prepared for long lines) Call Your Mother, and longtime favorites, Logan Tavern and Commissary. Then there is Number Nine, another great gay bar, and around the corner on 15th is a VIDA gym.

If I head west on a Sunday there is the Dupont Farmers Market, which seems to be growing weekly. There is the Phillips Collection, one of the better modern art galleries in the city. Then I can walk down to the Kennedy Center or continue west into Georgetown where there are literally dozens more restaurants and some expensive hotels like the Four Seasons. There is the new park at the riverfront with a skating rink. You can even catch a ferry from there to National Harbor to gamble at the MGM Hotel. Then there are the AMC movie theaters with 14 big screens and an Imax theater.

A short walk south from Dupont I can reach one of the

Just before the pandemic began, D.C. had more than 26 million visitors a year, and we’re getting back to that quickly.

newest coffee shops, Tatte, with its delicious pastries. There is the Renwick Gallery and the White House. There are also two major universities within walking distance, George Washington University and Georgetown University.

Again, remember all this is within a short 30-minute walk from my home. Now I know people reading this will remind me of all their favorite places I didn’t mention and I apologize for that. But clearly it is no wonder so many people love living here and coming for a visit. With its embassies, the Mall and Smithsonian museums all free to visit, D.C. is truly an international favorite.

Just before the pandemic began, we had more than 26 million visitors a year, and are getting back to that quickly. So come join us in D.C. — I promise you will have a good time.

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The cast of ‘Six’ at National Theatre.

(Photo by Joan Marcus)

Summer theater for all ages

D.C. boasts array of productions from ‘Hamilton’ to Stevie Wonder

By PATRICK FOLLIARD

High cost of gas putting a cramp in your summer travel plans? Is a staycation on the calendar?

Think about theater to help fill the DMV dog days. Live performance can transport you and it’s fun, and with so many varied options for all tastes and ages, there’s something for the pickiest patrons; and most importantly, so many venues (indoors and out) are just a short drive or a few Metro stops away.

In Arlington, Signature Theatre presents its first summer cabaret in two years, “Hotter than July: Stevie Wonder” (through July 17).

Inspired by Stevie Wonder’s 1980 platinum same-titled album, the show features songs from the album — “All I Do” and “Master Blaster (Jammin’)” — along with some of Wonder’s other hits like “Isn’t She Lovely,” “Summer Soft,” “I Just Called To Say I Love You” and “Higher Ground.” The cast includes Kaiyla Gross, Marc G. Meadows, and Solomon Parker III. Matthew Gardiner directs.

Olney Outdoors is back with 25 summer programs held at the Olney Theatre Center’s pavilion through Sept. 4. The en plein air lineup includes Friday night cabarets, Saturday mornings for kids and families, and Saturday night jazz events. Seating is flexible with dedicated area for blankets, bleachers, seats, or theatergoers’ own chairs from home. Olneytheatre.org Just steps away from the D.C. Wharf, Rorschach Theatre ends its season with an immersive experience titled “Chemical Exile: Synthesis” (through July 27). Here’s the plotline: When chemist Teddy Morris left Amsterdam to return to her hometown last October, it was not the D.C. she remembered. A stranger followed her around the city, her memories were coming apart at the seams, and a man claiming to be her dead dad had become a controversial faith leader. Over the next six months, her life took a swerve she never saw coming.

And now Teddy invites the audience to tour the R2 Labs where she and her colleagues are hard at work developing a chemical compound that may punch a hole through space time and allow those displaced from alternate realities to return home. Rorschachtheatre. com If kids figure into the plans, there’s Imagination Stage’s “Mr. Popper’s Penguins” (through Aug. 7), an upbeat youth musical with music and lyrics by George Howe and book by Robert Kauzlaric.

Based on the novel by Richard and Florence Atwater, it’s the story of Mr. Popper, a house painter who dreams of taking an Antarctic ad2 8 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • JULY 08, 202 2

venture. When a large family of penguins shows up on his doorstep, Mr. Popper and his wife turn his talented waddle into a must-see traveling vaudeville act full of song and dance. This musical play, featuring expert puppetry, is adapted from Richard and Florence Atwater’s beloved children’s book. Imaginationstage.org In nearby Maryland, Glen Echo Park’s Adventure Theatre MTC presents “Fantastagirl and the Math Monster” (through Aug. 21), the story of “a second-grade superhero who uses words to save the day, comes face to face with her worst nightmare, the Math Monster.

When confronted with problems too big for words alone to solve, Fantastagirl must accept help from her friendly, furry, fraction-loving foe. While Fantastagirl and Math Monster use words and numbers to help her friends and scientist moms, something far more sinister than math brews on the horizon.” Sounds intriguing. Jenny McConnell Frederick directs.

For a dip into history, check out Arena Stage’s world premiere production of Charles Randolph-Wright’s “American Prophet” (July 15 – Aug. 28) based on the writings and speeches of famed abolitionist, orator, and former slave Frederick Douglass. The piece couples soaring new melodies and an original script from Grammy Award-winning songwriter Marcus Hummon and Randolph-Wright. Arenastage.org At the National Building Museum, Folger Theatre’s co-production of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” runs July 12 through Aug. 28. The Folger has built a theater from the ground up inside the museum’s majestic Great Hall to house the abbreviated 90-minute version of the Bard’s classic. Folger.edu To experience Broadway without leaving town, check out the national tour of “SIX” at National Theatre through Sept. 4. Created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the Tony Award-winning British musical comedy is a modern, all-female retelling of the turbulent lives of the six wives of King Henry VIII. Thenationaldc.com The Kennedy Center Opera House is again playing host to the touring company of “Hamilton” (Aug. 2 – Oct. 9). Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway smash hit is billed as the “story of America then, told

by America now. Featuring a score that blends hip hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway, Hamilton has taken the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revolutionary moment in theatre—a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education.” Kennedy-center.org

Celebrating diversity, supporting the community, and sharing our pride.

At Kaiser Permanente, the region’s leading health system,1 we’ve always supported the LGBTQ+ community. From inclusive, compassionate care provided by physicians knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ health issues to a welcoming and safe environment, you’ll always get care that makes you feel like you belong.

kp.org/pridemedical/mas In the survey Best Health Insurance Companies for 2021 by Insure.com, Kaiser Permanente as a national enterprise is rated #1 overall among 15 companies.

In the NCQA Commercial Health Plan Ratings 2021, our commercial plan is rated 5 out of 5, the highest rating in MD, VA, and DC. The 2019 Commission on Cancer, a program of the American College of Surgeons, granted Three-Year Accreditation with Commendation to the Kaiser Permanente cancer care program (extended through 2022). The Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group is the largest multispecialty medical group in the Washington, DC, and Baltimore areas and exclusively treats Kaiser Permanente members. Permanente doctors are recognized as Top Doctors in Northern Virginia Magazine (2022), Washingtonian magazine (2021), and Baltimore magazine (2021). According to NCQA’s Quality Compass® 2021, we’re rated 5 out of 5 in 29 measures, including: controlling blood pressure (heart disease), blood pressure control (140/90) (diabetes), glucose control, colorectal screening, breast cancer screening, cervical cancer screening, childhood immunizations, prenatal check-ups, and postpartum care. Quality Compass is a registered trademark of the NCQA.

1

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States, Inc. 2101 E. Jefferson St. Rockville, MD 20852 2022BD0702 MAS 6/3/22-12/31/23

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Book your D.C. staycation at an LGBTQ-friendly hotel

Spend a weekend at one of these four stylish spots

By EVAN CAPLAN When the staycation is the best vacation: a year after Hot Vax Summer, we’re dealing with Hot Gas Prices Summer. Stick around the city at one of these four LGBTQ-friendly spots.

LYLE

In the heart of Dupont Circle and a mere half-block to 17th Street, Lyle finds itself in a prime location for a D.C. staycation. Opened just last spring, Lyle has found its footing during the pandemic. Like its tree-lined street, Lyle has a cozy feel in a historic Art Deco apartment building. London-based Lore Group, an international hotel brand, spearheaded the sophisticated design of the hotel (they also did the luxe Riggs Hotel in Penn Quarter).

The calming, neutral-colored rooms are homey, but the Art Deco style still provides plenty of energy. Its spacious, 24-hour gym also has a Peloton bike and yoga space. The star of the hotel is the ground-floor bar and restaurant, also designed by Lore. Dozens of striking redand-black abstract paintings cover the walls of this contemporary American eatery. Brunch comes with a fun twist: the restaurant has a special that includes a bucket of chicken, biscuits, a selection of sauces, plus a choice of bubbles or brews — and that’s on top of its bottomless bubbles or bloody Mary options that pair well with the live DJ set.

LGBTQ-friendliness: During June, Lyle leaned into its location and had several Pride-related offers. In celebration of its first Capital Pride, it put together a “Love at Lyle” package with welcome cocktails and a contribution to Capital Pride Alliance. It also hosted a drag brunch before the Pride parade. It also supports the neighborhood year-round: it focuses on buying locally when possible, and supporting local charitable initiatives.

EATON

A “global, mission-driven hospitality company,” the Eaton Hotel on K Street is a unique destination for staycationers with a purpose. The hotel’s art-filled design references nostalgia and modernity, recalling the history of its building as a bus terminal and printing press.

Among its innumerable amenities, the Eaton DC offers a cinema, radio, wellness center, workspace, music venue, rooftop bar, library, speakeasy, exhibition space, a “creators’ room,” event spaces, a coffee shop, and free coffee and tea in the mornings. Rooms, meanwhile, have colorful touches and come equipped with a bluetooth record player (and a curated vinyl library), rare books, and a built-in desk. It’s also pet-friendly. The lobby-level fine-dining restaurant, Michele’s, run by Michelin-starred chef Matt Baker, serves fine French-American cuisine and a highly regarded brunch.

LGBTQ-friendliness: The Eaton Hotel’s Head of Purpose, Sheldon Scott, reported that the Eaton has “worked with the D.C. office of LGBTQ Affairs for years and their Empowerment Programs to ensure that trans-identified workers have a safe and affirming workplace at Eaton DC. We also developed an EDIT (Equity Diversity Inclusion & Thriving ) curriculum with monthly and quarterly training for all staff, developing fluency in communities closest to injustice in an effort to expand our hospitality.” The hotel is known for its inclusivity, and received a 100% on HRC’s Corporate Equality Index.

KIMPTON BANNEKER

While there are three Kimpton properties in the city, the location closest to gay destinations is the Kimpton Banneker in Dupont Circle. After a recent refresh (formerly called the

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Just before the pandemic began, D.C. had more than 26 million visitors a year, and we’re getting back to that quickly.

Rouge), it reopened as the Banneker. Rooms are minimalistic yet warm, a place to recharge away from the bustle of the area. Pieces from local artists also grace the walls. This, like other Kimptons, doesn’t shy from the amenities. These include nightly wine happy hours, morning coffee, bicycles, downloadable heritage walking tours, a board game library, and a gym; plus, it’s pet-friendly. As for dining, the Le Sel restaurant is a classic French bistro. Head to the rooftop bar, Lady Bird, an indoor/outdoor perch with stunning views, roaring fire pits, and a pretty centerpiece U-shaped bar.

LGBTQ-friendliness: The Kimpton brand, which was founded in San Francisco, is the Trevor Project’s “Premier National Hotel Partner.” A portion of nightly stays are donated to the Trevor Project. The Kimpton George, in Capitol Hill, was lit up in a brilliant rainbow for Pride in June, and many other Kimpton properties held Pride celebrations. It also scored a 100% on the HRC’s Corporate Equality Index.

MAYFLOWER

The Mayflower Hotel, part of Marriott’s high-end Autograph Collection, is a D.C. original, overflowing with as much history as the city itself. Established in 1925, the Mayflower has played host to inaugural balls, plenty of intrigue, and famous guests. Its more than 500 rooms means there’s plenty of space for the staycation, and its Connecticut Avenue location near Dupont Circle means it’s close to all the places to play. Listed in the Historic Hotels of America, The Mayflower Hotel is known for its elegance and furnishings of refined wood, stone, glass and upholstery in jewel tones. Its flagship restaurant, Edgar Kitchen & Bar, pays homage to Washington’s power players - including its namesake FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover (rumored to be gay). Edgar Kitchen, a “traditional American brasserie” is still considered to be a power spot to dine.

LGBTQ-friendliness: Marriott Bonvoy has been known to be as friendly to LGBTQ customers as any other hotel group. It has developed a suite of LGBTQ-related travel guides, including guides to Chicago, Wilton Manors, and New York. The Human Rights Campaign also gave Marriott a perfect score on its Corporate Equality Index.

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CALENDAR |

By TINASHE CHINGARANDE & JACK WALKER

Friday, July 08

Friday Tea Time and social hour for older LGBTQ+ adults will be at 2 p.m. on Zoom. Feel free to bring your beverage of choice. For the Zoom link or more information, contact Justin at (justin@ thedccenter.org).

Women in their Twenties and Thirties will be at 8 p.m. on Zoom. This is a social discussion group for queer women in the D.C. area. For meeting updates, join WiTT’s closed Facebook group.

Saturday, July 09 Universal Pride Meeting will be at 1 p.m. on Zoom. This group seeks to support, educate, empower, and create change for people with disabilities. For more information, email supportdesk@ thedccenter.org or the group’s facilitator andyarias09@gmail.com.

NoireNights will be at 9 p.m. at Lost Society. Guests are encouraged to come enjoy an experience of non-stop music, dancing, and good vibes. A variety of genres will be played, including Afrobeats, hip-hop and soca. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.

The fabulous KRISTINA KELLY is among the drag performers slated for next weekend’s Hair and Heels events in Rehoboth Beach. (Blade file photo by Daniel Truitt)

Sunday, July 10 SoulDATE DC x LGBTQ Prom will be at 7 p.m. at Tokyo Pearl. This event is for those who want to relive their prom as their true and authentic self. Guests are encouraged to come dressed to the nines, celebrate self-expression and creativity with their best fashion looks. Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.

Go Gay DC will be hosting “LGBTQ+ Coffee Mixer” at As You Are. This event is for those trying to make new friends after two years of the pandemic. This event is free and registration is available on Eventbrite.

Monday, July 11 Center Aging Coffee Drop-In will be at 10 a.m. at the DC Center for the LGBT Community and online on Zoom. LGBT Older Adults — and friends — are invited to enjoy friendly conversations and to discuss any issues you might be dealing with. For more information, visit the Center Aging’s Facebook or Twitter.

Not Another Drag Show will be at 8 p.m. at Dupont Italian Kitchen. Logan Stone will host the event, which will feature a rotating cast of local DMV performers. The event is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Tuesday, July 12 Coming Out Discussion Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This event is a safe space to share experiences about coming out and discuss topics as it relates to doing so. For more information, visit the Coming Out Discussion Group Facebook page.

Trans Support Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This group is intended to provide emotionally and physically safe space for transgender people and those who may be questioning their gender identity/expression to join together in community and learn from one another. For more information email supportdesk@thedccenter.org.

Coming Out Discussion Group will be at 7 p.m. in-person at the DC Center for the LGBT Community and also on Zoom. This is a peer-facilitated discussion group and a safe space to share experiences about coming out and discuss topics as it relates to doing so. For more information, visit the Coming Out Discussion Group Facebook page.

Wednesday, July 13 Job Club will be at 6 p.m. in-person at the DC Center for the LGBT Community and online on Zoom. The Job Club is a weekly job support program to help job entrants and seekers, including the long-term unemployed, improve self-confidence, motivation, resilience and productivity for effective job searches and networking.

Queer Trivia will be at 7 p.m. at the Dew Drop Inn. This event will be about all things nerdy and queer. Tickets are free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Thursday, July 14 The DC Center’s Food Pantry Program will be held all day at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. To be more fair with who is receiving boxes, the program is moving to a lottery system. People will be informed on Wednesday at 5:00 pm if they are picked to receive a produce box. No proof of residency or income is required. For more information, email supportdesk@thedccenter.org or call 202-682-2245.

Brooklyn Thersdays will be at 8 p.m. at Brooklyn on U. This event is a ladies night featuring “grown and sexy vibes.” There will be hookah and bottle service. For more details, visit Eventbrite.

3 4 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • JULY 08, 202 2

OUT & ABOUT Hair and Heels weekend coming to Rehoboth

The Pines, an LGBTQ restaurant and bar in Rehoboth Beach will host the first “Hair and Heels” weekend on July 16 and 17. The event will take place at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center at 229 Rehoboth Ave. The festivities will kick off on Saturday with a dance party featuring DJ Chord. Pop-up performances and dancing from Eddie Danger and The Boys are slated to fill the remainder of the night. Doors open at 8 p.m.

Celebrations will continue into Sunday with Delaware’s largest drag brunch beginning at 11 a.m. Dana St. James, Andora Tetee, Tatiyanna Voche, Mona Lotts and Kristina Kelly will star in a morning of fun.

To cap off the weekend, stop by the Hair and Heels closing party Sunday night, featuring stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race Roxxxy Andrews and Tatianna. Doors open at 8 p.m.

For more information or to buy tickets in advance, visit The Pines’s website.

DC Center to address LGBTQ workplace rights The DC Center for the LGBT Community will partner with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to host “EEOC Listening Session on: LGBTQI+ Rights” on Thursday, July 14 at 6 p.m. on Zoom.

This event will feature a representative from the EEOC for a brief overview of services at the EEOC available to the community followed by an open floor listening session where guests can share experiences and concerns, among other things.

To RSVP for this event, email supportdesk@thedccenter.org.

DC Center to open new art exhibition about nudity The DC Center will host a welcome reception for painter Miguel Espinoza on Saturday, July 9 at 7 p.m.at the DC Center’s Art Gallery.

Espinoza’s work, “Naked Unafraid” will be on display in the DC Center’s Art Gallery beginning Monday, July 11. “Naked Unafraid” captures transient moments of vulnerability and fearlessness in the face of a rigid society.

To RSVP, visit the DC Center’s website.

J ULY 0 8 , 2 0 2 2 • WA S H I N GTO N B L A D E.CO M • 3 5

‘Umbrella Academy’ and Elliot Page elevate trans representation Netflix hit a subversive metaphor for America itself

By JOHN PAUL KING craft a rewrite that would allow Vanya Hargreeves, Page’s already-established characThere’s been a lot of bad news over these last couple of weeks, and there’s no way ter, to transition in the story, too. to sugar-coat it. The conservative Supreme Court seems determined to roll back the The result is perhaps a bigger success than any of them – or of us – might have clock to an era when rights belonged only to a privileged few, and that’s just one curexpected. On the surface of it, the change is executed without much ado. Early in the rent in an endless stream of worrisome developments that make watching the news season’s first episode, Vanya simply shows up at a family meeting and announces that enough to give even the most optimistic among us a sense of, well, impending doom. he is now Viktor, and that’s that. His siblings accept him, and everyone just moves on Still, in such overwhelming times, it’s crucial to remind ourselves that good things to the business of figuring out how to save the universe from yet another existential happen, too, even if they tend to get lost in the shadows; and even in an easily catathreat. strophized set of circumstances like the one we’re facing now, there’s a cultural moWisely, however, the show doesn’t merely make the change and then move forward ment taking place that deserves to be acknowledged — and you don’t even have to as if nothing has really happened. Viktor’s new gender identity may have nothing to turn on the news to see it, because it’s on Netflix. do with the main plot, but it is clearly pertinent to himself and his siblings, and we get In 2019, when the streaming giant premiered its adaptation of “The Umbrella Acato watch these relationships adjust as they process the change. These moments are demy,” Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá’s Dark Horse comic book series about a dysfuncsmall, but important; it’s a testament to the show’s excellent writing that each charactional family of superhero siblings, it was already at the forefront of the industry in ter meets the moment in a way that’s in keeping with their own unique persona. That terms of LGBTQ representation in its lineup; with two queer characters among its none of them chooses to be unkind makes for good “behavior modeling,” certainly, leading cast, the new show was no exception. Well-received by critics, the series was teaching audiences by example how to approach similar encounters with transitioning also embraced by fans, becoming one of Netflix’s most-streamed titles of the year. A loved ones in their own lives — but it also rings true within the narrative itself, undersecond season debuted in 2020, further expanding the tale’s queer storylines and scoring the deep loyalty to each other that repeatedly emerges as this not-as-bromeeting with similar success. ken-as-they-think family’s most valuable asset in its fight against universal destruction.

After all, when you’re facing the end of the world, what hero has time to argue about pronouns?

The show, too, gives both Page and Viktor ample opportunities to experience those little “aha” moments that are so much a part of transitioning into a more complete, more authentic version of oneself. From the self-discovery of seeing himself in his first “boy” haircut, to the expansion of empathy he feels for the struggles faced by his siblings, to his ability to just be, at long last, comfortable enough in his own skin to dance with complete abandon despite the impending end of the world – all these and more are nuances that don’t NEED to be there, but were nevertheless included by choice.

“The Umbrella Academy,” violent and irreverent as it may be, has never been shallow, but in its determination to present a positive and authentic transition experience and honor that journey for both character, actor, and audience alike, it sounds new and unexpected depths, and it’s all the better for doing so.

It’s worth pointing out some other reverberations that Viktor’s transition sets off in the overall premise of the show. He is after all, part of an ethnically diverse family whose members all struggle to overcome the childhood trauma they experienced under the supposed care (really exploitation) of a narcissistic adoptive father, a man with all the earmarks of a white imperialist colonizer who rationalizes his abuses in the name of the greater good. Damaged, divided, and combative, they’ve long since grown disillusioned with the old man’s vision for their lives, yet it continues to shape their lives and their behavior as surely as if it were in their mutated DNA. Add to this the fact that the apocalypses they keep having to avert tend to be of their own creELLIOT PAGE in ‘Umbrella Academy.’

(Photo courtesy Netflix) ation, and it’s hard not to see “The Umbrella Academy” as a subversive metaphor for America itself – yet one that is enlightened enough to embrace Viktor Hargreeves (and his other queer sibling, the pansexual fan-favorite Klaus, played by Robert Sheehan) with complete acceptance.

Now, after a pandemic-slowed production schedule, the much-anticipated third Clever allegorical touches aside, it’s this season’s pitch-perfect, elegantly drawn season has finally appeared, and it’s a ray of positivity in our current sea of woes. The transition of Viktor that elevates the show to historic status. It does what no show has reason has nothing to do with the show’s wild-and-wooly fantasy narrative about bickever done before: it gives us a character that fans already know and love, in whom they ering superheroes time-hopping from one narrowly averted apocalypse to another are already invested, and then they let us see that character come out as their authen— although as with all the best fantasy stories, it’s easy to draw a few notable parallels tic self. From Edith Bunker’s doomed drag queen friend Beverly on “All in the Family,” with real life. Indeed, it’s a real-life parallel that gives this season its real significance — to Pedro Zamora’s presence in “The Real World,” to Cam and Mitch’s long-running gay and it’s only there because of Elliot Page. marriage on “Modern Family,” game-changing queer representation on popular telePage has been part of “Umbrella Academy” since the beginning, and is the show’s vision shows has played an immeasurable but undeniable role in advancing LGBTQ biggest “name,” but when he came out as trans in 2020, his presence in the cast took acceptance in our culture; Viktor Hargreeves is just such a character, a benchmark in on even more importance. How the series would handle his transition suddenly betrans representation that feels like the harbinger of a sea change to come, despite the came the most important question on the minds of the show’s creators – especialominous threats of our seemingly unhinged SCOTUS. ly since, as showrunner Steve Blackman recently revealed, the scripts had already “The Umbrella Academy” can’t save us from the impending apocalypse in our own been written. To their great credit, the show’s creative team handled things right; they world, but maybe it can supply us with the hope we need to do it ourselves. brought in trans writer Thomas Page McBee, who worked with Page and Blackman to

3 6 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • JULY 08, 202 2

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‘Two Dogs’ will delight readers of all ages

Kids will relish the antics and repartee of Perry and Augie

By KATHI WOLFE

Temperatures are soaring. No one’s using their inside voice. We’re going to the dogs! But thankfully, not just any dogs.

In “Two Dogs,” his newest picture book, gay writer, illustrator, and theater designer Ian Falconer gives us Perry and Augie, the most fun pooches you’d ever hope to meet. If these pups don’t make you smile, see an orthopedist ASAP because your funny bone is broken.

As is often the case with great children’s books writers and illustrators, such as Maurice Sendak, Falconer’s work is enjoyed not only by kids, but adults.

Grandparents, parents, uncles, aunts, and college students as well as kids have been captivated by Olivia, the clever, assertive, charming ‘Two Dogs’ pig, who hams it up in a series of Falconer’s acWritten and illustrated by Ian Falconer claimed children’s books. c. 2022, Michael di Capua/Harper Collins From her debut in 2000 in Falconer’s $18.99 | 40 pages Caldecott-Medal-winning “Olivia,” the fab pig Olivia has been a diva for the ages. Rendered in wonderful black and white (with a touch of red) drawings, she has been adored by everyone from preschoolers to the late Hilary Knight, illustrator of “Eloise at the Plaza.” “Eloise has met her match! We love Olivia!” Knight said of the porcine star.

Olivia deserves the diva-worship. She doesn’t live in a luxury hotel or have a nanny. She has a dad, mom, and siblings. There’s no room service for them.

Yet Olivia lives quite the life. She’s one of a kind. It’s hard to think of any other pig who has photos of Eleanor Roosevelt and Martha Graham in her bedroom. Olivia’s been a fairy princess and traveled to Venice. On a vacation, she saves the day when circus performers are sick. “Luckily I knew how to do everything,” she says. (Dame Edna Everage does a fab reading of the Olivia books in the “Olivia Audio Collection.”)

You might wonder if any creature, no matter how winsome, could avoid being overshadowed by Olivia. But you needn’t fear. Perry and Augie have no trouble taking center stage.

Their energy and charisma, unleashed, bounce off the page.

Augie and Perry are two witty dachshunds. The wiener dogs have a classic beauty. “Indeed, they look like little Roman emperors,” Falconer writes.

The drawings in “Two Dogs” are hilarious — in vivid, bright colors. You feel as if you’re right there with Augie and Perry as they complain about how bored they are when their humans are at work and school, or, after breaking the lock on the door, run around on the grass outside.

Augie and Perry are good friends with opposite, but complementary, temperaments.

Perry throws caution to the wind: he’s a mischief-maker. Augie is cautious, but clever.

“Most of the time Augie looked more serious,” Falconer writes, “Perry was all over the place.”

Augie and Perry are just pooches at play, but they’re operatic creatures. In one scene, Perry takes away Augie’s ball. As any dog would know, “The ball,” as Falconer writes, “was very important to Augie.”

But Augie is no fool. In a move that Maria Callas or Barbra Streisand would admire, Augie bangs away on the black keys of a piano. Falconer’s drawing makes Augie’s music look as terrifying as it is to Perry. “PLEASE, AUGIE, NOT THE PIANO!” Perry pleads.

Augie and Perry bark at squirrels, roll around in raccoon poop and find a hole to dig in.

Falconer is so good at evoking the pleasures of dachshunds that you might wonder if, maybe, he was a dog in a previous life.

Along with writing award-winning kids books, Falconer, born in 1959, has designed sets and costumes for operas and ballets. He’s created covers for “The New Yorker” (his Halloween and Valentine’s Day covers are among his best).

You may question if it’s necessary to mention that Falconer’s gay. Here’s why it’s worth noting: because until recently, due to homophobia, most queer children’s book writers couldn’t come out.

The antics and repartee of Perry and Augie will delight readers from 4 to 104. Be warned: your copy will be dog-eared.

3 8 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • JULY 08, 202 2

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Independence Day Weekend in Rehoboth Beachgoers celebrated at Diego’s, Aqua (Washington Blade photos by Daniel Truitt)

Vacationers and local residents celebrated Independence Day Weekend at Diego’s Bar and Nightclub and Aqua Bar & Grill in Rehoboth Beach, Del.

4 0 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • JULY 08, 202 2

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4 2 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • JULY 08, 2022

Creating a pet-friendly environment at home

Fences, pet doors, ramps, and other ways to protect your dog and cat

By VALERIE M. BLAKE

Anyone who has owned Miniature Schnauzers knows that their favorite thing to do is For the extremely pampered pooch deserving of a high-end house of her own, a bark. They are convinced that each passing person, dog, squirrel, or leaf is a threat to Cape Cod kennel is available from Wayfair for just under $12,000, with curbside delivery their owner. and assembly required. You can also choose the similarly priced Victorian model with At my house, you will always find Sasha sitting atop the back of the couch, surveyworking windows and flower boxes. ing her domain through the Read the ingredients in window, and alerting me to fertilizer, weed killers, and any perceived danger. As mulch carefully, to be sure if on command, the others they do not contain subwill join in the song of their stances that would be toxpeople. Outside, they will ic to your pets. If you have meet at the fence for an ena landscaper who comes core. routinely, always check that Last week, I was trying to fences and gates are sekeep the noise manageable cured before letting your while my neighbor, Louise, pets out to roam the yard was weeding her garden. after a visit. My Cammie I suggested that she give appreciated the ability to them a treat or two to keep stroll the neighborhood last them occupied. I even promonth, but I was frantic. vided said treats. As she If you have multiple pets, was tossing them over, prevent the accumulation of however, one landed on feces that might attract verher side, amid a patch of ivy min by hiring a pet waste that lines the fence. removal company such as Soon after, I spotted Cory, Doody Calls or POOP 911 with three-quarters of his to clean and deodorize 20-pound body squeezing your yard or patio. its way through the fence If you live in a condominigoing after the treat. Thankum, cooperative, or apartfully, I was able to capture ment with a balcony, make his little butt and pull him sure you have a sturdy railback before he made it to ing that is high enough to the other side. He was so prevent pets from falling. determined to collect his You never know when your prize that he had pushed cat may be tempted to Take steps to protect your pets while they explore your home, inside and out. the pickets to the side, and chase after a bird or your I had to use a claw hammer dog, a squirrel. and a Bungee cord to pull them back into place securely.

Indoor safety is also important. Wood floors can present a challenge for older dogs What might have been a disaster had he gotten out of my yard made me think about with arthritis and hip problems, so using an assortment of throw rugs may help. Elevated how we can make our pets safer and more comfortable in and around our homes. bowls are available to keep an elderly dog’s neck from straining to reach food or water.

We have seen an increase in theft of pets recently, so be sure to keep an eye on your Getting on and off a sofa or bed can be problematic and lead to broken limbs and dog and don’t tie him up while you’re “just going into the shop for a minute.” He may back injuries, so check with companies like Chewy and PetSmart that offer sherpa covnot be there when you come out. ered steps to access a couch and carpeted ramps for senior dogs to reach today’s thickIt should be obvious that you never leave a pet in a car in hot weather, but, nonetheer mattresses. less, it bears repeating. A temperature that seems just unpleasant to a person can be By providing for the welfare and comfort of your pets in your home and yard, I’m betlethal for a dog or cat. ting that the ensuing kisses and cuddles will lead to an increase in your own wellbeing If you are lucky enough to have a home with a fenced yard, you may want to consider too. installing a pet door to access your house. While this can reduce instances of accidents on your carpet or wood floors, use caution in letting your furry friend come and go at will, especially at night or if you live near one of our parks where foxes and other predators roam. is a licensed Associate Broker in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia with Since many of us have back yards that double as parking spaces, we sometimes forRLAH Real Estate / @properties. Call or text her at 202-246-8602, email her get how harmful the hot cement, asphalt, or even slate patios can be to paws. For relief, via DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs. try a baby pool or some dog booties to keep them cool.

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