Washington Blade, Volume 54, Issue 36, September 08, 2023

But Sarah McBride’s campaign would make history if she succeeds, PAGE

(Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

‘I am not running to be the trans representative in Congress’

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Sarah McBride

By JOEL LEV-TOV

Sarah McBride is running for Delaware’s sole seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. If you ask her what the most important issues are for voters, she’ll tick off several things: The cost of education, prescription drugs, housing, fear of gun violence, fear of the Supreme Court, the wave of anti-LGBTQ legislation across the nation.

What’s not among them? Her gender identity – the fact that she’s transgender. But we journalists mention it at every turn – you’d be forgiven for wondering whether we know anything else about her. Even at MSNBC, the cozy cable home for liberals, her identity takes center stage. -

gender member of Congress,” the lower third blares during McBride’s July 15 MSNBC interview.

“McBride on historic run for Congress,” another says. Congress if elected,” a third reads.

And every time her interviewer mentions it, she notes something along the lines of what she told MSNBC anchor Katie Phang: “I’m not running to be the transgender representative in Congress, I’m running to serve Delaware and to make progress on all the issues that matter.”

It begins to resemble a tango – only where the two dancers are dancing to two completely different songs. If it annoys her, she won’t say so publicly.

“Of course there’s going to be discussion about the potential of this campaign to break this barrier and to increase diversity in Congress and to ensure that a voice that has been totally absent from the halls of Congress recent interview with the Blade. “While it’s not what this campaign is focused on, while it’s not what voters are focused on, it is certainly relevant to the young people who are feeling alone and scared right now.”

She’s running in a crowded primary against rising Delaware political star Eugene Young and former Delaware State Treasurer Colleen Davis. Curtis Morris Aiken and Alexander Nevin Geise, a Universal Life Church minister,site. The primary is slated for April 2, 2024.

McBride, though, has a unique advantage – national name recognition and a close relationship with the Democratic Party’s elite, including President Joe Biden. She formed that relationship working to get Beau Biden, the president’s son, elected as Delaware’s attorney general in 2010 while studying at American University.

McBride continued to work in politics afterwards, later becoming the university’s student body president. In the last few days of her tenure in 2012, she announced something big: She is a woman, she is transgender. The announcement made waves in local and national media. Beau Biden called her to tell her he was proud of her. And then Joe Biden told her he was proud as well when she took a picture with him.

“Hey, kid, I just wanted to let you know I am so proud of you, and Beau is so proud of you, and Jill is so proud

of you,” Biden, then the country’s vice president, told McBride. “And I’m so happy that you’re happy.”

Some years later, after pressing for legislation protecting trans Delawareans from discrimination, she got the chance to speak at the Democratic National Convention. Her 2016 speech paid tribute to her late husband, endorsed Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, and advocated for a better tomorrow. It moved some in the thousands-strong crowd to tears – and others to their feet.

“My name is Sarah McBride and I am a proud transgender American,” she told the crowd, beaming.

Four years later in 2020, she became the highest-ranking transgender person in the country in her role as a Delaware state Senator representing parts of Wilmington. A year later, President Biden appointed her to the Democratic National Committee’s Executive Commit-

already raised more than $400,000. Her opponents haven’t had to open their books yet, so we can’t compare fundraising.

But if you’re holding your breath, waiting for the president’s endorsement in the Delaware house race — don’t.

“The president is focused on his own race,” McBride says.

And McBride is focused on her race, hunting for votes wherever she can. She “fully” expects to go up and down the small state, she says, to every town, municipality, and everything in between to talk to voters. She’s not shying away from Delaware’s conservative-leaning, rural Sussex County either — despite roughly 60% of Sussex voters voting for former President Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election.

“No voter is going to agree with me on every issue, and there will be some voters who will disagree with me them,” she emphasizes. “In the Delaware state Senate, almost every bill that I have passed has passed with bipartisan majorities.”

That’s Delaware though. National politics are a horse of a different color. Not that that worries McBride – she’s progressive and will push for progressive policies, she says, but will work with Republicans as much as she can. Sure, she says, there are major disagreements, but beyond the drama and the fever-pitched headlines, there’s actually a lot of agreement – though not enough for her to expect any endorsements from Republicans.

Meanwhile, the so-called culture wars dominate the national conversation. The Human Rights Campaign issued a state of emergency for LGBTQ+ people in the United States, counting a record 75 anti-LGBTQ+ bills signed into law just six months into 2023.

McBride has gotten her fair share of threats herself, to the point where she says she hasn’t had a job where she hasn’t received death threats and transphobic attacks.

“When I was making the decision whether to run, one of the things I had to grapple with was the risk that comes with it at a moment where politicians have so

clearly tried to dehumanize the trans community,” she said. “I know that with dehumanizing rhetoric comes dehumanization. And with dehumanization, hate and violence become that much more possible.”

Still, she says, anti-trans politicians and activists shouldn’t be able to restrict trans people from participating in democracy, to scare trans people into silence. The LGBTQ community is more united than ever, she says.

It’s clear the attacks won’t silence her – she expects to be a force to be reckoned with if she is elected to Conshe managed to pass a bill for paid family leave starting in 2026 – despite the political observers laughing in her

On the issues, though, McBride is harder to pin down beyond the statements on her website. She’s running toture, for example, but her website doesn’t mention agriculture. McBride says it’s just a matter of time.

“We’re going to be further building out the policy agenda,” she says. “I don’t know that anyone has any on their websites yet.”

She then pivots to a familiar talking point – farmers and agriculture workers, just like her, know what it’s like to be underrepresented in government. She knows what it’s like to be “unseen and unheard” by the government. She knows what it’s like to be attacked by her own government. She’s secured the endorsement of Delaware’s United Food and Commercial Workers. She’s running to represent all Delawareans and she’s listening to all of them on her tour through the state.

“A campaign is a conversation,” she emphasizes.

The time for conversation is quickly running out, though, when it comes to mitigating the climate crisis. Delaware is the lowest-lying state in the country, making Sierra Club’s Delaware chapter has endorsed her twice, but McBride’s climate policy proposals are so far murky. The U.S. must become carbon neutral by 2050, she says – something Delaware has already committed to.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 09

‘not running to be the trans representative in Congress’

Delaware politico on agriculture, climate change, and making history

SARAH MCBRIDE aims to win the seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester. (Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

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Janne Marie Harrelson dies at 70

Worked for 32 years at Gallaudet University

Janne Marie Harrelson died Aug. 23 from ovarian canHarrelson left an indelible mark on those who knew and loved her as a kind and generous person, according to a statement released by family. “Her thoughtfulness was mementos and birthday and anniversary cards she kept ready so that her many connections could be nurtured.”

Slocum, N.Y. Being in a Navy family meant that growing up, Harrelson rarely lived in one location for more than two years. Long Beach, Calif.; Japan; Hawaii; Key West,

footsteps, Harrelson attended the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology. She followed up with a master’s in higher education administration/student personnel administra-

Harrelson moved in 1978 to the Washington, D.C., area and began what became a 32-year career at Gallaudet

the Deaf and Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center. Although she didn’t know American Sign Language -

ly knowledgeable in the language and in deaf culture and deaf education. She retired from Gallaudet in 2010

being director, National Mission Planning, and director of the nationwide Gallaudet University Regional Centers. Throughout her tenure at Gallaudet, Harrelson made lifelong professional and personal relationships that she cherished, according to the statement.

Harrelson met her life partner in 1978 through their -

Her greatest love and gift was her singing. Harrelson’s graceful soprano voice was part of multiple ensembles,

cappella group, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring choir, and Not What You Think a cappella group. She was also often asked to be a singer with other

Harrelson had many hobbies, including scrapbooking, which combined her passion for photography, connecting people through memories and experiences, and artistic and creative freedom. She also did needlepoint, a skill she learned from her mother and grandmother and shared with aunts and cousins. She was an active

al Exchange until she was no longer able due to her illinternational deaf students to local school communities, which positively affected the lives of many young people.change student, Johanna, and that connection became

After Janne and Deb built their family through international adoption with their daughter Lucy, they became active with suburban Maryland international adoption groups and helped them to extend their outreach. Their family bonded with several others with adopted children and those relationships have remained lifelong. Harrelson was also an active leader and volunteer with the Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring over the 26 years of their family’s participation. Janne and Deb had deep roots in their former Silver Spring neighborhood, and beginning in 2021, in their new community in Rockville.

in North Carolina and Atlanta.

A memorial service will be held Sept. 22 at 11 a.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring, 10309preted in ASL and streamed.

FROM STAFF REPORTS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 06

We need “bold goals,” she says, to achieve carbon neutrality, to prevent the country from emitting more greenhouse gases than its forests, shrubs, grasslands, sea grasses, and more can remove.

So do we need a carbon tax, where emitters have to pay for every ton of greenhouse gases they emit? She didn’t directly answer. A ban on new fossil fuel projects? She didn’t directly answer. Don’t we need to move away from carbon credits, which in theory certify that one ton of carbon dioxide hasn’t been released into the atmosphere thanks to the purchase, given how hard it is to prove that toxic gasses weren’t released because of the purchase

upgrades and could save roughly 3 billion metric tons of greenhouse gases according to the U.S. Department of Energy. She supports the law despite its greenlighting of the Mountain Valley Pipeline across West Virginia thanks to a deal struck with West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin. components that many of us would not like,” she says. “And oftentimes those components are necessary to pass the bill.”

And she’s itching to pass bills and bring a fresh per— she’s determined to put in the work to win.

“This is a real race,” she says. “We’re leaving no stone unturned.”

her wife, Deborah Weiner; daughter Lucy Youyou Jade

(Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

JANNE MARIE HARRELSON

Revised rules ease restrictions for gay, bi men

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

gay or bisexual men in the D.C. area to donate blood onplemented the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s new guidelines for blood donor eligibility.

The new guidelines, approved by the FDA on May 11, ease longstanding restrictions on blood donations by gay and bisexual men that had effectively prevented people from donating blood based on their sexual orientation.

The two men, Doug Anderson, 51, a longtime Red Cross employee, and Dan Bennett, 56, a senior director for the Medallia personnel management and softwareigible to donate blood.

“There’s so much of a need for blood,” Anderson told the Washington Blade. “So, it’s really nice to be included so we can also give back to this life-saving mission,” he said.

“I was able to give blood previously and it’s been many, many years since I’ve been able to give,” Bennett said. “This is something that I feel very proud to be able to do and to represent our community.”

The previous FDA policy that has just been replaced required men who have sex with men [MSM] to abstain from sex for three months before they would be eligible to donate blood.

The new policy, according to a statement released by the FDA in May, eliminates time-based deferrals for dowho have sex with men and women who have sex with MSM.

The FDA statement says the new policy puts in place a screening process that asks all prospective donors regardless of their sexual orientation to answer a series of individual, risk-based questions to determine their eligibility for blood donation.

“The implementation of these recommendations will LGBTQI+ community,” the statement quotes Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, as saying.

But the FDA’s blood donor policy change also puts in place restrictions based on certain sexual activity that ap-

plies to everyone, not just gay or bisexual men.

“All prospective donors who report having a new sexual partner, or more than one sexual partner in the past three months, and anal sex in the past three months, would be deferred to reduce the likelihood of donations by individuals with new or recent HIV infection,” the statement says.

those taking medication to treat or prevent HIV infection (e.g., antiretroviral therapy (ART), pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), will be deferred” from donating blood, the statement continues.

“Though these antiretroviral drugs are safe, effective, and an important public health tool, the available data demonstrate that their use may delay detection of HIV by currently licensed screening tests for blood donations, which may potentially give false negative results,” it says.

An FDA spokesperson said the deferral will be for three months after someone discontinues the PrEP and PEP medications and three months after someone who had engaged in anal sex with a new or more than one sex partner. All donors must also have a negative test re-

Anderson and Bennett said a diverse group of people joined them in turning out to donate blood on Aug. 7 N.W., near the White House.

to implement that new policy, I talked to my husband Dan about it,” Anderson said. “And I kind of teased him. I said I think it’s ‘bring your husband to work day.”

Anderson noted that he works at the D.C. Red Cross headquarters building where blood donation drives are often held and where the building was host to the blood donations of Aug. 7.

“And I wondered if he would come with me on the very it was something I didn’t think we would ever see in our lifetime,” he said.

Bennett enthusiastically agreed to join his husband in donating blood on that day. He noted that Red Cross including he and his husband, on video as they donated blood. The video is part of an effort to inform the public

that people who were ineligible to give blood can now do so.

“So, to be part of this, to be able to get that message out there and awareness – it’s really important,” he told the Blade. “So, I believe this will educate people more and drive them out to want to give blood and to participate.”

Md. man pleads guilty to making threats against HRC

A Maryland man has pleaded guilty to making threats against the Human Rights Campaign.

The Justice Department in a press re-chael Nettina, 34, of West Friendship, Md., pleaded guilty in federal court to one count ofnications with a threat to injure.

enced the massacre at the Covenant School in Nashville, which took place the day before.

“The message referenced a mass shooting that had happened the day before at a school in Nashville, Tennessee, involving multiple shooting fatalities, where the perpetrator was a transgender woman,” notes the press release. “During the call to the advocacy organization on March 28, Nettina made multiple threats, including, ‘…We’ll cut your throats. We’ll put a bullet in your head … You’re going to kill us? We’re going to kill you 10 times more in full.’”

The Justice Department said Nettina “admitted to leaving the threatening voicemail and to targeting his

victims because of their actual and perceived gender, gender identity and sexual orientation” and acknowledged he sent threatening messages to two lawmakers in Virginia and Maryland who publicly support trans people.”

“The defendant in this case attempted to terrorize the LGBTQI+ community by calling in multiple threats of violence to a local advocacy group,” said Luis Quesada, assistant director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI will not tolerate these acts of hate, and we remain committed to investigating civil rights violations and keeping our communities safe and free from fear.”

FROM STAFF REPORTS

DOUG ANDERSON, 51, and DAN BENNETT, 56, were among the frst gay people to donate blood after the FDA changed the rules earlier this year.

ADAM MICHAEL NETTINA (Photo courtesy of the Justice Department)

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alcohol intoxication

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

A D.C. gay man whose body was found on a street in Southeast Washington around 3 a.m. on May 28 with his car, wallet, phone, and jewelry missing died of “acute

Terrell Newkirk, 55, in response to a request from the Washington Blade, said “ethanol” is a technical term for alcohol as used in alcoholic beverages.

sclerotic cardiovascular disease” and “end stage renal used for the cause of a medical condition.

tempt by Newkirk to take his own life or by homicide.

a call at around 3 a.m. on May 28 about an unconscious

was driving in the area, saw the unconscious man in the before police and an ambulance arrived.

sy found no signs of injury on the body, which prompted police to rule out homicide.

The spokesperson, Paris Lewbel, also said there were belongings as part of a carjacking.

The NBC News online LGBTQ news site called Out

claim that police were not adequately investigating the case.

The NBC Out News story also reports that a friend of Newkirk told NBC that he spoke with Newkirk for about a half hour outside the Ugly Mug around midnight during the Black Pride event and that Newkirk appeared to be intoxicated.

But the friend did not know what Newkirk did after he left the Ugly Mug, according to the NBC Out story.

pletion of toxicology tests to determine a cause and manner of death due to a large backlog of cases.

lice, who have been investigating the death, contacted from the Blade. lawn care business.

On Saturday evening, May 27, Newkirk drove from tend a Black Pride dance party held at the Ugly Mug bar Turpin told the Blade. partner on his cell phone to say he was leaving the Ugly Mug Black Pride event and would soon be on his way home, Turpin said. But he never made it home and did was.

Unknown to Turpin at the time, D.C. police received

Police later told Turpin the unconscious man had no

later and provided police with a photo of Newkirk that as being Newkirk.

cell phone from phone records he had access to. He

era footage to see if Newkirk may have left the bar with someone else. At the time NBC asked about the security camera footage, the owner said the video recordings from the time Newkirk was at the bar over Memorial Day weekend had been erased.

D.C. police spokesperson Lewbel, who told the Blade

pact the police investigation.

Turpin this week said he very much wants police to continue the investigation to determine what happened to his partner, even if the cause of death was alcohol intoxication.

body was found.

When the car was eventually returned to Turpin, Turpin said police appeared uninterested in obtaining two bags he found in the car that did not belong to him spond to his question about whether police attempted

A D.C. police spokesperson told the Blade in July that the case remained under investigation and police were

“How did his body get in the middle of the street?” Turpin asked. “And his car was gone, his wallet, his phone, everything was gone,” he said. “They really should continue the investigation. They really should.”

Turpin acknowledged that his partner began drinking on the same day at another event before he attended years earlier had one of his kidneys replaced after being on dialysis prior to the kidney transplant surgery.

ERNEST TERRELL NEWKIRK died on May 28.

Former U.N. Ambassador Bill Richardson dies at 75 Lost LGBTQ support in

2008 presidential race after televised gaffes

By BRODY LEVESQUE

Former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Energy Secretary, congressman and two-term New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson died in his sleep at age 75 last Friday at his Cape Cod summer home, a spokesperson for the Richardson Center for Global Engagement said in a statement released Saturday.

Mickey Bergman, vice president of the Richardson Center, said, “Gov. Richardson passed away peacefully in his sleep last night. He lived his entire life in the service of others — including both his time in government and his subsequent career helping to free people held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad. There was no person that Gov. Richardson would not speak with if it held the promise of returning a person to freedom. The world has lost a champion for those held unjustly abroad and I have lost a mentor and a dear friend.”

son’s passing:

“Governor Richardson was a close friend who held the same House seat that I was elected to. He knew how to get things done, and he worked closely with my late father in the Legislature.

“His passing is incredibly heartbreaking for so many New Mexicans who knew and respected him. He leaves behind a legacy that will never be matched, and one that New Mexicans will always take pride in. My prayers are with Barbara, the Richardson family and all New Mexicans. His memory will always be a blessing.”

Traveling in Florida surveying Hurricane Idalia damage, President Joe Biden released a statement on the death of Richardson:

“Bill Richardson wore many weighty titles in his life — congressman, governor, ambassador, secretary. He seized every chance to serve and met every new challenge with joy, determined to do the most good for his country, his beloved New Mexico, and Americans around the world. Few have served our nation in as many capacities or with as much relentlessness, creativity, and good cheer. He will be deeply missed.”

Although the ambassador was committed to LGBTQ rights in the U.S. and globally, his early interactions

port among LGBTQ voters that election cycle for a series of gaffes made during a campaign forum spon-

Also appearing on the forum was another candidate, then-U.S. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.). In January 2008, Richardson dropped out of the race which ultimately saw the election of Obama as the 44th president of the U.S.

rum had the Illinois senator with the most support at percent.

islature, I am pushing it very hard to expand domestic partnerships. It’s the same thing.”

Not only was this mistake No. 2, but it resurrected mistake No. 1 — the Imus comment. Which prompted the next question: Where do you stand on gay marriage?

“In my heart, I am doing what is achievable, and I’m isn’t there yet,” he said. “That doesn’t mean I’m closed on this issue. It means I’m doing what is achievable.”

Which prompted the next question, from rock star Melissa Etheridge: “Do you think homosexuality is a choice, or is it biological?”

“It’s a choice. It’s, it’s …” he said.

Mistake No. 3. The audience was silent.

questing an in-person interview to clarify his position, saying that he has long known being gay is biological.

“I misunderstood the question, and I made a mistake in the way I answered it,” he said during that interview.

His campaign also attempted to mitigate the damage with the LGBTQ community issuing a statement that read in part:

“Let me be clear: I do not believe that sexual orien-

point I was trying to make is that no matter how it happens, we are all equal and should be treated that way under the law. That is what I believe. That is what I have my record and my actions and they will see I have been a true supporter of the LGBT community.”

The campaign also stressed Richardson’s long sup-

The University of California, Santa Barbara,’s “The

Bergman added: “Right now our focus is on supporting his family, including his wife Barbara of over 50 years, who was with him when he passed. We will share further information as it becomes available.”

A lifelong progressive Democrat, the former U.S. ambassador to the U.N. had worked almost exclusively in recent years, through the Richardson Center he founded in 2011, to free people who were held hostage or

This past month Richardson was nominated for a Norecently Phoenix Mercury player Brittney Griner. Over the last several decades Richardson traveled the world negotiating and securing the release of American prisoners and hostages in Bangladesh, North Korea, Sudan, Colombia, and Iraq.

As one of the 351 candidates for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023, the former ambassador told The Hill that he was honored by the nomination.

Richardson served as a congressman, U.S. ambassador to the U.N. and Energy Secretary under President Bill Clinton, and two terms as governor of New Mexico.

New Mexico’s junior U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján issued a statement Saturday after learning of Richard-

Heath Haussamen, a political journalist based in Las Cruces, N.M., and the editor and publisher of the

leased on June 22, 2007, which read:

made on the Don Imus show in 2006 — repeating the use of the Spanish word for “faggot” after Imus used it — and he seemed to tentatively satisfy his critics.

“It was one of those exchanges when I was caught off guard … But I think you should look at my actions, and not words.”

The forum moderator then commented that she had misspoken once on Imus’ show, and said each guest is entitled to one mistake on that show.

Legislature passed a bill making gay marriage legal,

between domestic partnerships and gay marriage — one panel member characterized it as the difference between being separate but equal and being truly

“I am very pleased to join my friends in the GLBT community and Americans across the country in celebrating Pride month. This month is a deserved commemoration of the contributions of GLBT Americans to the United States and a welcome symbol of how far we have come as a nation.

“We must also acknowledge that we are in the midst have a long way to go. This month is a worthy symbol of our progress towards full civil rights for every American, but we cannot ignore the challenges we still must conquer before we can truly move forward and create a better society.

“I have been a strong, dedicated, and proud supporter of the GLBT community throughout my time in public service. In Congress, I voted against the Pentagon’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. I continue to believe that it is wrong, shamefully wrong. This policy is not only detrimental to GLBT Americans, it is harmful to the security of every American, as badly-needed military personnel are discharged for no other reason than that they are gay or lesbian.”

Former U.N. Ambassador BILL RICHARDSON played a key role in securing the release of Brittney Griner. (Screenshot via ABC News)

is editor of the Washington Blade. Reach him at knaff@washblade.com

Does

Are South Carolina voters among the most progressive in the country? Did they elect not one – but TWO – gay U.S. senators?

That’s a fair conclusion after reading last week’s story from Axios, “GOP donors fret over Scott’s single status.”

Per the story, “Top GOP donors and their allies privately are pushing Sen. Tim Scott’s team for more detail about his bachelor status before deciding how much to support him in the presidential campaign, according to two people familiar with the conversations.”

It continues, “some donors have questions.”

Of course, Axios doesn’t dare go there and address what “questions” his single status might raise. So let me do it: Tim Scott is rumored to be gay, just like the senior senator from South Carolina, as the Blade has reported many times. Male escorts in D.C. have openly claimed that Sen. Lindsey Graham has been a client. (If you have an iron stomach, Google “Lindsey Graham ladybugs” for the details.)

Back to Scott. If he’s gay, that’s great! A gay Republican credibly running for president is surely a sign of better times and a historic moment for the country. If he’s not gay, then certain Scott GOP rivals are using homophobic tactics to undermine his candidacy by pushing narratives that Scott is gay in hopes it will turn off the bigoted GOP base.

The Axios story compares Scott’s situation to that of Democratic Sen. Cory Booker, who also ran for president as a bachelor. “When Booker ran for president, he was dating actress Rosario Dawson,” the story notes. Of course they later broke up and Dawson clumsily came out of the closet herself. The Axios story doesn’t mention this, because the mainstream media, for whatever reason, still can’t quite reckon with queer sexuality in 2023.

Perhaps Booker, Scott, and Graham are all gay. So what? Say it out loud and stop playing these 20th century coy games about the truth of our public officials’ lives.

Are South Carolina Sens. LINDSEY GRAHAM and TIM SCOTT both gay? ( lade fle photo by ichael ey)

Gay Prince Eddy, Kind, Caring, Un�it to Murder 20 Million

(First in a series)

PETER ROSENSTEIN

is a longtime LGBTQ rights and Democratic Party activist. He writes regularly for the Blade.

It may be I lack an understanding of people. But it is beyond my comprehension how any woman, member of the African-American community, or the LGBTQ community, or someone who believes in dealing with climate change, would not run to the polls and vote for a Democrat. There are real and stark differences between the Republican and Democratic parties today, and your personal rights, and personal safety, are at stake because of those differences.

It is simple. If you support equality for women, for African Americans, and the LGBTQ community, Democrats vote for that; Republicans have proven they vote against those ravaging our nation, and the world, Democrats are trying to do something about that; Republicans have shown they are not. If you want equal pay for women in the United States, Democrats will do that; Republicans have proven they won’t. If you want to guarantee women the right to control their own body, and ensure birth control is easily available for all, Democrats are for that; Republicans have proven they are not. If you want to pass the Equality Act granting equality to the LGBTQ community, Democrats are for that; Republicans have proven they are not. If you want to strengthen laws guaranteeing voting rights, make it easier for all Americans to vote, Democrats are for that; Republicans have proven they are not. Republicans have shown they want to make it nation, control the number of guns, ban military weapons like the AK 47, Democrats want to do that; Republicans have proven they do not. Republicans think it’s OK to offer prayers and condolences to families of those murdered in mass shootings, and then do nothing. In fact, Republicans have proven they want to make it easier to buy guns.

So, what will it take to get you to the polls on Election Day? What more do you need to know about the dramatic differences between the two major parties? How about Democrats want to expand Medicare and Medicaid, having voted to do that; Republicans have proven they do not. Democrats want to cut the cost of your drugs; Republicans have proven they do not. One could go on and on. What will motivate you to vote?

Are you happy with everything each candidate says or does. Of course not. No one is perfect. But if you are a woman, an African American, or member of the LGBTQ community, or just have some human decency, and aren’t out there voting, and getting everyone you know to do the same, there is something wrong with your thinking. You

pen if Republicans win the presidency, and Congress, in 2024. You, your friends, and family, will all suffer if they do. Then you will have no one to blame but yourself.

We have a two-party system in our country, whether you like it or not. Pretending you can change it by voting for a third party is both illusionary, and nonsensical. It’s simple: If you vote for a party other than the Democrats, you are helping Republicans to win. We have seen the proof. Ralph Nadar caused Democrats to lose Florida and the election in 2000. In 2016, the votes Jill Stein got in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, likely caused Hillary Clinton to lose to Donald Trump. Stop being fooled, or fooling yourself.

If you stay home, don’t vote, you are helping Republicans. If you are young, think it doesn’t matter, remember you will suffer the results of Republicans winning longer than any older person. This is about your life. Stop whining, and vote.

Sure, those in my generation screwed some things up. We inherited screwed up things from the generation before us. Each generation gets the chance to make a difference. If you don’t grab the chance to make change, you become the one to blame for what is wrong. Voting is step one to making a difference. Don’t pretend it doesn’t matter, or pretend both sides are the same. The differences are huge, and the repercussions of not voting are as plain as the nose on your face.

Beyond comprehension that any underrepresented person would not vote

We must turn out and reject Republican attacks

Did you know that you can recycle paint in the District?

District residents can recycle paint at one of the following events:

RFK Stadium Lot 3 - 2400 E Capitol St NE

Saturday, September 16, 2023 (7am-2pm)

Thursday, September 21, 2023 (10am-2pm)

Thursday, October 12, 2023 (10am-2pm)

Saturday, October 21, 2023 (7am-2pm)

Paint drop-off locations and free pick-up for over 5 gallons are also available year-round.

For more information visit: paintcare.org/dc

The passing of the Anti-Homosexuality Bill 2023 by parliament in Uganda in May criminalizes homosexuality and calls for life in prison or death in some cases. It is speculated to be influenced by white radical Pentecostal communities from the United States and has caused major divisions in ideology around the world. This colonization and demonization is a result of evangelism by the evangelical church of America.

Thanks be unto God that this type of polarizing was not the case for The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries (TFAM) 2023 Convocation “Miracles, Signs, and Wonders” held in Atlanta July 5-9, 2023.

In fact, during this year’s Convocation TFAM celebrated a 10-year relationship with the United Church of Christ (UCC), a denomination historically led by white males. The United Church of Christ elected its first African-American female General Minister and president in its history. I believe this is partly due to the special relation TFAM and the UCC have and are recommitted to deepening.

Empowerment Liberation Cathedral (ELC) UCC in Lanham, Md., along with my church leaders were in attendance at TFAM 2023 to refuel, learn, witness, and celebrate. As the the pastor of ELC and creator of Morning Manna a LIVE/podcast, I recently stated many want to wear the robe of the clergy, but don’t want to do the work it requires for ministry today as I reflected upon a message given by Bishop William Barber II during his keynote presentation.

Bishop Barber was one of many nationally known keynote speakers at TFAM 2023. Bishop Barber is founder of the Poor People’s Campaign and director of the Center for Public Theology and Public Policy at Yale University. He stirred the attendees with his fiery message about the need for social justice in America today and for persons to advocate for what is morally right. Pastoring is so much more than Sunday service and a preached message. It’s caring for and feeding the people’s spirit. Pastoring is fighting for the rights of citizens in your community and beyond, who have been forgotten about, tossed aside, and treated as if their lives don’t matter. We should be led to work where God is already at work and serve where God needs us most. We must begin to help those in need of basic survival things such as food, shelter, work, and a sense of pride.

My prayer is that all clergy, no matter what denomination, get involved beyond the walls of the church. I have served as vice president of the NAACP in Southfield, MI, worked with the People For The American Way (D.C.) and now serve as Chair of the Mental Health Network, a national United Church of Christ board that works to reduce stigma of those with mental health challenges and promote the inclusion of people with mental illnesses/brain disorders and their families in the life, leadership, and work of the church. I am also the founder of Empowerment Justice Center which serves the citizens of the District of Columbia and the metropolitan area by advocating for justice for all, equality for all, and offering mental wellness services.

TFAM is a multi-denominational group of primarily African-American Christian leaders and laity representing churches and faith-based organizations from the USA, Africa, and Mexico. The overriding purpose of The “Fellowship” is to affirm openly LGBTQIA religious leaders and laity and encourage them to move toward a theology of radical inclusivity – no matter your race, sexual identity, gender identity, socio-economic background, or religious affiliation. The Fellowship’s overarching goal is creating, sustaining and celebrating communities on the margins that often identify as LGBT. TFAM was founded by Bishop Yvette A. Flounder, and she serves as the presiding bishop today.

(Kedrick Keys, Public Relations, Empowerment Liberation Cathedral, contributed to this report.)

Bishop Allyson Abrams Ministries is the ministry of Dr. ALLYSON NELSON ABRAMS

Pastoring is much more than a preached message on Sunday

Loving the Land Down Under Australia

offers LGBTQ travelers a welcoming and diverse culture

By CHAD MANTOOTH

Having grown up in Kansas, in the middle of the United states that are the Midwest.

When I was a kid, my dad was a huge Olivia Newton John fan. She was his Australian heartthrob. Many a school day, I would come home to her music blaring or one of her live concerts in the VCR. And as a young gay boy, I was mesmerized by her as well. She was pretty, sang beautifully, and was from this great land far, far away.

I wondered how this pop chanteuse from Down Under got into my living room. And I always wondered what her homeas everyone suggested? Was there something at every turn that could kill me?

To me, it sounded exciting! I’ve always tried to live my life by a Helen Keller quote I heard while in high school: “Lift is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” And it was with that mindthat mystical Land Down Under.

Australia is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world, with a progressive culture that embraces diversity and inclusivity. Australia decriminalized homosexuality in the 1970s and legally recognized same-sex marriage in 2017. The country has a very vibrant and dynamic LGBTQ community, and it is a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Sydney, the largest city in Australia, is often considered the LGBTQ capital of the country. The city hosts the famous Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, an annual festival and parade that attracts more than 300,000 visitors from around the world. become a symbol of Australia’s commitment to LGBTQ rights and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Australia.

The parade, beginning with the roar of hundreds of “dykes on bikes,” is truly a sight to behold. The whole country comes to SLAY at this parade! Everyone puts on their brightest colors

(and longest) Pride parades I’ve ever been to in my life.

In 2023, Sydney was home to the 2023 WorldPride festival, and the city rolled out the rainbow carpet for the estimated 1 million-plus people, staging more than 400 events. And when I tell you that this city went over the top — well, that’s a complete understatement. EVERYWHERE I went, EVERYTHING was covered in rainbows — from the city sidewalks to the lighting on buildings, to every employee I saw in every shop with their rainbow pins and buttons. It was like gay was the norm and straight was the minority; it was weirdly fabulous!

Melbourne

Melbourne is another great city for LGBTQ travelers to visit. Aside from being the current home to my favorite pop star, Troye Sivan, the city is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene and is home to a thriving LGBTQ community. The annual Midsumma Festival, a three-week celebration of queer arts and culture, is held in Melbourne and features a range of exhibitions, performances, parties, and other events.

If shopping is your thing, check out the 145-year-old Queen Victoria Market. This open-air market is home to more than 600 small businesses where you can buy everything from Australian fruits and veggies to gourmet food, clothing, and souvenirs. There is literally something for everyone.

Wild Australia

What initially drew me Down Under were the lush landscapes and wild animals I saw on TV growing up. The country is home to some of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, including the Great Barrier Reef, the Outback, and the Blue Mountains. LGBTQ travelers can explore these natural wonders through a range of activities, including hiking, snorkeling and even zip lines and hot air balloon rides.

One stop for me was the breathtaking Heron Island, a stunning coral cay located on the southern Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland. It is accessible only by catamaran or helicopter and offers a secluded and pristine escape for travelers looking for a uniquely tranquil experience.

The island boasts world-class snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, giving visitors the chance to swim among vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life including sea turtles, manta rays and reef sharks, while its sandy beaches provide a picturesque setting for sunbathing and leisurely walks. The island is an also breeding ground for several species of seabirds, including the endangered black noddy tern and the wedge-tailed shearwater, making it perfect for birding enthusiasts.

I spent three glorious days on this piece of paradise and have never felt so relaxed in my life. I got up close with nature — every kind of wildlife you could imagine birds — in a way that I’ve never experienced before and will never forget.

Accommodation options on Heron Island range from eco-friendly tents to luxurious suites, with all rooms offering stunning views of the reef and the island’s lush vegetation. Facilities include a restaurant and bar and well as guided nature walks and reef talks.

If you need a chance for some peaceful rest and rejuvenation, especially after all the excitement of Sydney and Melbourne, Heron Island is the perfect destination. Its remote location and unparalleled natural beauty make it a must-visit destination.

Bondi Beach

Australia has several LGBTQ-friendly beaches, including the popular Bondi Beach in Sydney. The beach is home to the Bondi Gay and Lesbian Beach Picnic, which is held on the LGBTQ travelers.

Food and wine

Australia’s food and wine culture is yet another draw for LGBTQ travelers, offering a range of culinary delights from fresh seafood to world-class wines and unique indigenous cuisine. I know I came back to the states 10 pounds heavier! The cities of Melbourne and Sydney are particularly known for their food and wine scenes, with a range of LGBTQ-friendly restaurants and bars.

Overall, I spent a little more than two weeks in The Land be going back to vacation there again, and I might even move there some day. The welcome I felt from the people there is something I will never forget.

Aussies care about their country and the people in it. From the moment I touched down until the minute that I left, I never felt unwelcome anywhere I went.

The country’s progressive culture, natural beauty, and diverse cities make it an ideal vacation spot for LGBTQ individuals and couples. Whether you’re looking to attend a Pride parade, explore the great outdoors or simply relax on a beautiful beach, Australia has something to offer everyone.

So, pack your bags and come and say G’day; you won’t regret it. For more info on traveling to Australia, visit www.australia.com

(Chad Mantooth is a writer for the Dallas Voice. This story is courtesy of the National LGBT Media Association.)

(Photo courtesy Destination NSW)

A voyage to Iceland, Greenland, Denmark and beyond Cruise of a lifetime to unforgettable ports of call

By MARK SEGAL

(Mark Segal is publisher of the Philadelphia Gay News. This story is courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media Association.)

LGBTQ people like to travel, and like many people they take cruises to see the world or just to relax. It used to be when taking something as personal as a cruise, where you’ll be with people in close quarters and where conversations can be easily overheard, you might have felt uncomfortable to be yourself. Today there are numerous LGBTQ cruises for almost every segment of the LGBTQ community where you can be your fabulous self and party until dawn or more. Among those companies are Atlantis adventures, primarily for men, and Olivia cruises for women. But those companies still comprise only a fraction of available cruise sailings. So, how welcoming are non-LGBTQ cruises?

My husband Jason and I have been on numerous cruises on many LGBTQ and non-LGBTQ cruise lines. For our current trip we booked a cruise on Oceania, a line known for its food (they claim the best food at sea), exceptional attention to detail, and out of the ordinary shore excursions. We chose Oceania once before, and it was above most of the other cruises we’ve done. Another advantage of Oceania is that they do exotic itineraries. Our July cruise started in Reykjavik, Iceland and then proceeded to Greenland, the Shetland Islands, Denmark, and Sweden before ending in Oslo, Norway after a whopping 15 days. We traveled with another gay couple, our friends Klay and Val, who are out and proud like us.

And that really is the heart of the question: How out and proud can LGBTQ people be on a traditional cruise?

“LGBTQQIA+ Get Together” in their daily schedule printout. The 4 of us attended along with 3 other couples, though we weren’t the only LGBTQ people on board. Throughout the trip, we met many other LGBTQ people, mostly couples, who also had other cruise experiences. I asked many of them why they picked this cruise over an LGBTQ cruise, as well as how comfortable they felt being out on this cruise.

The overwhelming answer was that people on a cruise, like the general population, gravitate to like minded people, and since everyone’s on vacation it’s easier to get along. Most of them were comfortable being open about their sexuality. Jason and I felt comfortable enough to show our emotions at times and hold hands or put an arm around each other, just like non-LGBTQ couples. It made a larger point for me. Could we have done that a decade ago? The answer is: probably not. So in that regard, traditional cruises pass the comfort level for LGBTQ people. But what about the more nuanced reality of being an LGBTQ person on a cruise with 97% non-LGBTQ people?

friends who turned out to be a fascinating lot. One of those was a couple who work at a small college and are developing new ways to be inclusive to LGBTQ students. Another was a retired couple from Seattle, another from Dallas. That’s the with and having a nice time.

For all of us, the two factors that led us to this cruise were the itinerary and the reputation of Oceania. Let’s start with the cruise stops.

Reykjavik, Iceland

The departing port of the cruise, Reykjavik, deserves a few days to tour since it has some of the greatest landscapes and wonders on Earth, and if you’re lucky as we were, you will be met by an active volcano. We had arranged 3 days of touring with an LGBTQ tour company called Pink Iceland. There not only is a sizable LGBTQ population in Iceland, but

it seems everywhere you go there are rainbows. The country even has had a lesbian Prime minister. It’s one of the most LGBTQ-friendly places on earth.

at the raw natural landscape, which looks like something from the moon but is actually dried lava with moss growing atop. The volcanoes and glaciers are everywhere, and with an abundance of volcanoes, you’ll see steam coming up from the ground in certain places. This has translated to natural geothermal power that powers the country, as well as natural glacier water (which tastes better than any bottled water) in every home. Later that day we went to the black beach at Reynisfjara with its basalt rock formation from eruptions thousands of years ago. We also visited and walked behind several waterfalls, and the sunshine meant that rainbows were aplenty. It was wet, magical, and romantic.

Our second day began with an adventurous ATV ride on that moonscape with a stop at a dormant volcano’s top ridge. With me driving, Jason held on for dear life. Afterwards, we spent the afternoon in the world famous Blue Lagoon spa, where there are pools of volcanic minerals and silica that are a color of blue you’ll see no other place on earth. As you soak you can apply those minerals as a face mask. Even though it were all pleasantly overheated.

Our third day we toured the capital city, which is easily walkable and features a giant rainbow street, and then attended a get-together organized by Eva and Birna, the owners of Pink Iceland, with some local LGBTQ community members, including a member of parliament and a play-ern Iceland. The audience was among the most engaged I’ve ever spoken to, and they asked insightful questions and were delightful to engage with. Iceland is a country built on stories (called the Sagas), so the people are keen to learn the stories of others.

After our three days in Reykjavik, we went onto our ship, the Oceania Riviera.

The ship had recently come out of dry dock with a total renovation. The cabin was the most beautiful we’ve ever seen at sea and had ample closet space and a bathroom with a rainfall shower. Our home away from home would be comfy.

Our friends Klay and Val opted for a larger room with butler service. The room had more closet space than some New York apartments, and the amenities were above average. But their butler, as they learned, seemed to have had no under-

standing of his role and often overcomplicated things.

Isafjordur, Iceland

Iceland is still developing its infrastructure for tourism. Our ship had provided 10 shore excursions, but all were completely sold before we even boarded the ship, including the one we wanted most, whale watching. The fact that shore excursions sell out months before the trip was not fully communicated to us. When we attempted to book 6 weeks before the trip, many ports had no available excursions. Neverthediscovered one of the treasures of Iceland, The Tjoruhusid Restaurant. Known to be the most traditional Icelandic food in the country, you still needed a reservation since locals and tourists come from all over for its cuisine. But in true Icelandic hospitality, the staff found room and were kind enough to seat us, and I must admit that while I’m not a seafood eater it

isted, various vegetable combinations, and coffee, biscuits, and chocolate.

After the meal, we took a stroll through the village and distown square had a giant rainbow painted down the center. That’s two for two cities in Iceland with rainbow streets.

Paamiut, Greenland

Our second stop was a small village of about 1300 whose cruise ships have ever stopped there, and for good reason. While there are very few facilities and the infrastructure is sparse, the main problem was that as we approached, the seas were somewhat choppy and we found ourselves in a sea of Icebergs. Before I could suggest to everyone that we all break out into a chorus of “My Heart Will Go On,” the captain stated the obvious: he canceled the adventure in Paamiut. It was not safe to take the tender boats to shore (there was nowhere to dock in a port that small). However, a consolation prize was being treated to a sea of majestic icebergs as we sailed away.

That evening the entertainment and information system in all the staterooms went down. No television, no stateroom information, no map. Not only was the television system down, but the ship’s entire network went down as well. The casinos were out of service, and bartenders and shop staff had to write down stateroom numbers on paper receipts. Getting information about the problem was met with what would become a common complaint on this trip: a lack of communications skills from the staff.

But we moved on to the next port of call, which turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip.

Nuuk, Greenland

The capital of Greenland, Nuuk, held its Pride celebration the week before we arrived. Discovering small cities with Pride events astonishes me even to this day. We had tried to people) the organizers told me they didn’t have the funds to create merch.

For our excursion for the day, we chose the Fjord Boat Tour, which was majestic. Our boat driver dodged icebergs a few minutes, the calmness and solitude, being surrounded by ice and mountains, was otherworldly.

Reykjavik deserves a few days to tour since it has some of the greatest landscapes and wonders on Earth. (Photo courtesy Jason Villemez)

By EVAN CAPLAN

Downtown got a bit tastier when “the next generation of food halls” opened its doors on Tuesday near the Farragut West Metro stop. Dubbed The Square, its half-doz-

After two years of planning – and teasing some biggether.”

Spain, the fairly new Spanish-themed Andres food hall in Hudson Yards.

try,” says Brandenburg.

and other street

• Yaocho tions.

• Junge’s Brandenburg and hand in this stall.

• Atrium Bar tral watering hole for son.

rant group and getting to

heading into Square feels

Slated for fall 2023, the next round of openings in-

next door to The Square.

The Square is just one of a handful of new food halls blossoming in and around

starred restaurant and a Square is Western Marbuzzy, relaxed style.

For now, the Square is open Monday through Friday,

• Cashion’s Rendezvous

• Jamón Jamón

• Brasa food stall as well.

• Taqueria Xochi – Birria, guisado,

dres alum.

(Photo by Scott Suchman)

(Photo by Scott Suchman)

(Photo by Scott Suchman)

(Photo by Scott Suchman)

(Photo by Scott Suchman)

(Photo by Scott Suchman)

(Photo by Scott Suchman)

Written & Directed by Pulitzer Prize winner Nilo Cruz

CUSTOM BUILT IN PILOTTOWN PARK.

CALENDAR

Friday, September 08

Center Aging Friday Tea Time will be at 2 p.m. on Zoom. This is a social hour for older LGBTQ+ adults. For more details, email

Women in Their Twenties and Thirties will meet at 8 p.m. on Zoom. This is a social discussion group for queer women in the Washington, D.C. area. For more details, visit their closed Face-

Saturday, September 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 details, email andyarias09@gmail.

GoGay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Brunch” at 10 a.m. at Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant. This fun weekly event brings the DMV area LGBTQ+ community, including allies, together for delicious food and conversation. Admission is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Sunday, September 10

AfroCode DC will be at 4 p.m. at Decades DC. This event will be an experience of non-stop music, dancing, and good vibes and a crossover of genres and a fusion of cultures. Tickets cost

GoGay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Dinner & Conversation” at 6 p.m. at Federico Ristorante Italiano. Guests are encouraged to come enjoy an evening of Italian-style dining and conversation with other LGBTQ+ folk on the enclosed front patio. Admission is

Monday, September 11

Center Aging Monday Coffee and Conversation will be at 10 a.m. 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

“Reign: A Variety Drag Show” will be at 8 p.m. at Dupont ItalChristie, Hennessey, Sirene Noir Sidora Jackson, and Anamosity.

By TINASHE CHINGARANDE

Tuesday, September 12

Coming Out Discussion Group will be at 7 p.m. 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 details, visit the group’s For more infor-

Trans Support Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This group is intended to provide emotionally and physically safe space for trans* people and those who may be questioning their gender identity/expression to join together in community and learn from

Wednesday, September 13

Job Club will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom. This is a weekly job support program to help job entrants and seekers, including the resilience and productivity for effective job searches and networking — allowing participants to move away from being merely “applicants” toward being “candidates.” For more information, email centercareers@thedccenter.org or visit www.thedccenter. org/careers.

Thursday,

September 14

The DC Center’s Fresh Produce Program will be held all day at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. To be more 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.

Virtual Yoga Class with Jesse Z. will be at 12 p.m. online. This is a weekly class focusing on yoga, breathwork, and meditation. Guests are encouraged to RSVP on the DC Center’s website, providing your name, email address, and zip code, along with any questions you may have. A link to the event will be sent at 6 p.m. the day before.

OUT & ABOUT

Looking for a good laugh? Dupont has you covered

The fifth annual DC Comedy Festival will start on Monday Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. at Dupont Underground.

The festival, in partnership with Broken Diamond Comedy, will bring together more than 100 talented comedians from both local and international scenes. It is a celebration of the vibrant comedy talent in the D.C. metro area and an homage to the city that launched the careers of comedy legends like Dave Chappelle, Martin Lawrence, and Wanda Sykes.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.

Queer and love to paint? Now is your time to shine

“Thirst and Paint” will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. at the upstairs section of Green Lantern Bar. This event is catered to the LGBTQ+ community— allies are also welcome. And guests will be treated to one free drink, a canvas to take home, and a live

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.

The Green Lantern turns on the lights for a painting party on Sept. 12 featuring a model. ( ashington lade fle photo by ugh lar e)

Little Amal spreading refugee awareness across U.S.

By PATRICK FOLLIARD

Since the summer of 2021, Little Amal, a 12-foot puppet portraying a 10-year-old Syrian refugee, has roamed far and wide spreading refugee awareness. After walking all over Europe, exploring the streets of New York City and Toronto, she is now trekking across America.

Created by internationally acclaimed artistic director Amir Nizar Zuabi in association with Handspring Puppet Company out of South Africa (famed for the brilliant puppetry behind “War Horse”), “Amal Walks Across America” highlights the cross-cultural experiences of the millions of refugee children each with their own story.

Little Amal was inspired by an unaccompanied minor charthe former Calais jungle encampment in 2015.

As a sort of honorary ambassador/refugee, the very large puppet has clicked with audiences wherever she goes. And now through early November, Amal is visiting 35 towns and cities from the East Coast to San Diego where thousands of artists and arts organizations creating free public events are slated to show up to welcome her.

On Sept. 17 and 19, Amal will be in D.C. Her program includes stops at Lafayette Square (a high school marching band), Black Lives Matter Plaza (a Muslim children’s choir and shared testimonies), McPherson Square, and Franklin Park where the Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gos-ties such as sidewalk coloring books, an activation of letters to Amal from Planet Word, and fare from Immigrant Food.

Though ostensibly on her own, Amal is brought to life by three puppeteers: one inside her torso walking on stilts, and

BOOKS

two operating the arms.

in Harlem, New York, handles one of the arms.

“Puppetry is my main art form. I sort of fell into it,” they explain.

As an undergrad at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, they learned puppetry in a workshop of Basil Twist’s “Rite of Spring.” Twist liked what he saw and invited them to follow the production to Lincoln Center where they made their New York debut.

“Puppeteering involves choreography, dance, and move-

31. “Through puppeteering I’ve done theater, singing, and travelled the world. I’m fortunate to do this craft.”

Though not part of Little Amal’s original European tour, they joined the walk with three weeks in New York (2022) followed by a shorter stint in Toronto (2023), and now they’re part of the national gig.

When Amal arrives on the scene of an event, her team dresses her and checks mechanisms away from the gathering crowd. But once she stands and walks around the corner, it’s show time. Before swarming her, fans and onlookers react with variations of surprise and excitement. Often local artists will present her with things they’ve made like outsized library

especially for her large size: “People want to reach out and touch her beautifully sculpted hands; they’re made from a hard material but still have a caressing ability to them.”

Amal’s message resonates with the puppeteer too.

“She brings the crisis face to face. She’s a symbol of ref-

LITTLE AMAL (Photo by rent ullion)

ugee children and all displaced people. Indigenous leaders I’ve met on the road, understand where she’s coming from, and as a Black American, that’s something I understand about my own family history, not knowing where I come from and what that means.”

project will do more events with the queer community.

“As queer people, we very often have chosen family. Amal is discovering her identity on the road. She’s searching for comfort and family.”

Along the route, the project partners with different orgarather blithely opines that it’s “a logistical miracle” the way things come together.

“Anything can happen. As puppeteers we don’t have a lot of information about the next event, so just like Amal, we’re experiencing whatever’s ahead with fresh eyes.”

‘Amal Walks Across America’ Sept. 17 and 19 |

walkwithamal.org

Intriguing historical novel based on the true story of 1800s lesbian couple

By KATHI WOLFE

English landowner, diarist and businesswoman Anne Lister (1791-1840) married her last partner Ann Walker in a marriage ceremony at Holy Trinity Church in Golesbian marriage in England, and likely, the world.

Lister, born in a landowning family at Shibden in Caldermodern lesbian,” is having a moment. In two seasons in on Lister’s diaries, co-produced by the BBC and HBO (streaming on Max), dramatized Lister’s relationship with Walker.

“Learned by Heart,” an intriguing historical novel by Emma Donoghue is based on the true story of the queer relationship of Lister and Eliza Raine. Raine is believed to

Much of the novel takes place in 1805-1806, when, at age 14 and 15, Lister and Raine were students at Miss Hargrave’s Manor School, a boarding school for girls in York.

Raine was born in Madras (now Chennai) in India. Her father, who was English, was a surgeon with the East India Company. He and an Indian woman, whom he did not legally marry, had Raine.

In an author’s note, Donoghue writes of a letter of Raine’s that refers to her as having “sprung from an illicit connection.” Another letter calls Raine a “lady of colour.”

Raine is sent to England at age 6. After her father and

mother die, she’s left an orphan with a small inheritance. being digitalized), Lister, with her brilliance and charismatic personality, has become a queer culture icon.

Raine is comparatively unknown. Perhaps, for this reason, “Learned by Hand” focuses on Raine’s point of view.

Raine arrives at the Manor School before Lister. Prior to Lister’s arrival, Raine is mousy, rule abiding.

Because Raine’s from India, she sleeps alone in a small room. Aware of unspoken racial bias (against people who are part Indian and part English), she wants to blend in – to stay out of trouble in this school with its many rules. “She’s trained herself to wake at seven,” Donoghue writes, “just before the bell.”

When Lister arrives at the school, Raine’s world and personality are transformed. Lister, known even at this young age for being too smart for her own good, is assigned to room with Raine — isolated from the other girls — in the tiny room they call “the Slope.”

Donoghue skillfully illuminates how the girls’ friendship

One day, Lister and Raine, who call each other by their last names, alone in a church, conduct a marriage ceremony for themselves.

“Learned by Heart” is heartbreaking because its chapters are intertwined with letters that Raine writes to Lister in 1815.

It’s clear from this correspondence that Lister has (and will have) other lovers than Raine. And, that, sadly, Raine is writing from what is then called an “insane asylum.”

As is evident from “The Pull of The Stars,” and her other historical novels, Donoghue has an unerring talent for creating fascinating tales out of true stories.

Unfortunately, as so often happens, Lister, the bad, outrageous girl, is far more interesting than Raine. Raine frequently comes across as loyal, passionate, but too needy Cleaver.

“There’s nothing noble about Anne Lister...,” Donoghue wrote of Lister in “The Guardian.”

Lister had the sexual ethics of a bonobo, Donoghue continued, “lying to every lover as a matter of policy.”

Yet, Lister is Donoghue’s hero. “Because she looked into her heart and wrote about what she found there with unessay.

“I love and only love the fairer sex and thus beloved by them in turn, my heart revolts from any love but theirs,” Lister wrote in a coded entry in her diary on Oct. 29, 1820. (Lister wrote one-sixth of her diaries in code to hide from homophobic eyes.)

“Learned by Heart” is a moving, entertaining read. Raine’s story along with Lister’s should be told. Even the clingy can be unsung heroes.

‘Learned by Heart’ by Emma Donoghue a moving read

By JOHN PAUL KING

It’s a paradox that the Hollywood system, which spent decades erasing anything that seemed remotely “queer” from its product, could also be responsible for one of it did.

It could be considered even more remarkable that it could have happened with a movie utterly devoid of ex-

Girl,” which celebrates the 55th anniversary of its release did feature Barbra Streisand, but while the multi-hyphenate megastar may have had her share of big screen reprisal of the Broadway role she had originated that was arguably responsible for turning her into

nize the absolute, world-shifting power of Streisand’s Brice onstage she had found the perfect match of performer to material; like Brice, she was a talented “ugly duckling” with Jewish immigrant roots and a determination to achieve her dreams, and the obvious parallels in their backgrounds — combined with her remarkable gifts as a singer and actress, of course — brought enough authority and authenticity to her performance to literally make her an overnight Broadway sensation. In translating that performance to the screen four years later, she became a superstar, already well on her way toward a groundbreaking future as one of the most powerful women in the entertainment industry.

Still, a generation of gay men didn’t embrace Streisand, or her debut screen performance, simply because she seemed almost supernaturally talented, nor did they do so out of solidarity with a feminist cause; as with most queer cultural touchstones of generations past, so much because of what it (or its star) presented on the surface, but because of an unmistakably universal subtext about the struggle of being an outsider in a world that devalues going against the grain. The experience

people who yearned to shine without having to pretend to be something else; combined with the unstoppable force of Streisand’s charisma, her story became not just relatable, but empowering. Already well-accustomed to identifying vicariously through “straight” narratives in the movies, gay men could easily make the leap to small part to the irrepressible persona of its leading lady, they liked what they saw.

There are other elements that strike queer chords, too, such as the undeniable appeal of the movie’s plot, a show-biz melodrama about a doomed backstage love affair that bears only marginal similarities to the real-life story of Brice’s relationship with gambler Nicky Arnstein; he’s a suave “bad boy,” and their attraction simmers with the kind of “forbidden” chemistry that comes when we feel the spark of passion with somebody we’re not supposed to. That makes it irresistible, of course, and

it doesn’t hurt that Arnstein is played by the impossibly attractive Omar Sharif, who had already embodied a subtextual queer romance onscreen opposite Peter O’Toole in “Lawrence of Arabia.” Besides that, the story’s theatrical setting naturally evokes rumination on the challenge of making “the show go on” even when our private worlds are falling apart, which had perhaps even more resonance with gay people accustomed to “keeping up appearances” in their closeted lives in 1968 than it does today.

But all these threads can be found in countless movies, going back to the earliest days of the art form, and though some of them may have earned a place on the list of queer-favorite classics, few are held up as high as reason why, it was the man behind the camera who cap-

was a Hollywood legend. He rose to prominence making westerns in the silent era and went on to hone his -

ery genre; he had helmed three Oscar-winning Best Pictures, earned eleven nominations for Best Director, and was renowned for his ability to coax career-topping performances from his actors. Indeed, many of them won or were nominated for their own Oscars for appearing in

hearing loss made him doubt his ability to direct one, he recognized Streisand’s raw potential and was excited by the chance to guide another talented performer to stardom. He took the job.

The decades of accumulated experience he brought -

ful to look at; awash in a mix of soft pastels and vivid pop

colors, it seamlessly merges old Hollywood with new, blending long-practiced styles and techniques with thething particularly notable in the handling of the musical numbers, which vary from the elaborately stagebound expansively cinematic (and still-breathtaking) helicopter shot of Streisand singing on a moving train in “Don’t Rain on My Parade.” Perhaps more important than any of his visual stylings, his instincts for character-driven storytelling allow him to combine the nostalgia of the golden age with the more permissive sophistication that had begun to dominate movies as the old studio system a more candid combination of vulnerability and sensualhelped to make thrillingly palpable.

It was a fortuitous moment for both director and star, clashed often on the set but established a deep and lasting respect and friendship for each other. Like former

and while she would go on to deliver other powerhouse performances, she arguably never topped this one. In-

record number of nominations which still stands today.

Girl” by watching it again for the umpteenth time, perhaps it’s worth paying a little special attention to the love be a vehicle for a breakout star who owns every second of it, but it’s also an impeccably made piece of cinema, which is why it remains iconic for queer audiences even in an era when direct queer representation has supplanted vicarious “coded” depictions of queer experience.

A scene from ‘Funny Girl.’

SunFestival

Annual CAMP Rehoboth fundraiser dance sold out

CAMP Rehoboth’s annual SunFestival was held over Labor Day weekend at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center.

(Washington Blade photos by Daniel Truitt)

By JOSEPH HUDSON

As we get into the fall market, home inspectors will the following:

• Structure – foundation, crawlspaces, framing (SFH)

• Exterior – doors, windows, steps, walkways, decks, gutters (SFH)

• Roof, drainage, chimneys, skylights (SFH)

• Plumbing and distribution systems, faucets, hot

Before you buy, consider an inspection.

water heaters, sump pumps, hose and water main valves.

• Outlets, proper wiring within the outlet, GFCI’s,

• AC systems

• Heating systems

• Insulation, walls, ventilation

• Chimneys – (separate chimney inspections are available)

The agent that is writing the offer for their client can

JOSEPH HUDSON is a Realtor with the Rutstein Group of Compass. Reach him at 703-587-0597 or joseph@dcrealestate.com.

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION 2023 FEP 000026

Date of Death 10/22/2020

Name of Decedent: Michael Leroy Williams Sr.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Katharyn A Phelps whose address is 103 Graiden Street, Upper Marlboro, Maryland 20774 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Michael Leroy Williams Sr, deceased, by the Orphan’s Court for Prince George’s County, State of Maryland, on December 30, 2020. Service of process may be made upon David Roberts 1717 N Street NW, Ste 1 Washington, DC 20036 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, DC. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 1900 2nd Street NE, Washington, DC 20002. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills for the District of Columbia, Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Blade, Daily Washington Law Reporter.

Date of first publication: September 01, 2023

Katharyn A. Phelps, Personal Representative, 240-839-0035

A True Test Copy Nicole Stevens, Register of Wills

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