Thanks to a group of enterprising group of Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and Filipino investors, the Manila Film Center is now known--to foreign tourists, at least--for more positive things instead of its old, ghastly reputation.
What this consortium -- now known as The Center for Philippine Arts, Culture and Entertainment Production, Inc., -- did was establish the Amazing Philippine Theater, which regularly features, glitzy, glamorous and delightfully campy performances by the most beautiful transvestites in the country.
Although the consortium has not renovated the entire building, it has refurbished the theater area where APT performances are staged six nights a week.
The APT has truly done something amazing: turning a decrepit, abandoned structure with a reputation for being haunted, if not accursed, into a sought-after tourist destination. Can glitzy gay shows exorcise film center's 'ghosts'?
ABS CBN News, Philippines -
Search here for more LGBT News
January 31, 2008
Can glitzy gay shows exorcise film center's 'ghosts'?
Castro merchants bank on movie magic
The decision to film the Milk movie in the Castro could provide the city's gay neighborhood with something many say it has been lacking in recent years: star power. Business leaders and tourism professionals are banking on the likelihood that the film, starring Oscar winner Sean Penn as the late Supervisor Harvey Milk and directed by Oscar nominee Gus Van Sant, will be a box office smash and critical darling. In turn, they are envisioning that the movie's success will lure travelers, both gay and straight, to visit San Francisco. "We think that using the film could be a great opportunity. Naturally, the ultimate quality will mean a lot, but it certainly is something that we are exploring," said Joe D'Alessandro, the openly gay executive director of the city's convention and tourism bureau. See Castro merchants bank on movie magic
Bay Area Reporter, CA
Is Clay Aiken staying in the closet forever?!
Clay Aiken seems to be struggling with his time in the closet. Remember when you were sooo tired of being in closet that you claimed you may be "assexual?" Remember hating everyone who actually had fun going to clubs and discovering themselves?
Clay is there now!
"The only reason people go to bars is to get drunk and have sex," Aiken said. "To me, bars are what hell is like."
Aiken also told New York Magazine that he thinks he has no sexual urges. Is Clay Aiken staying in the closet forever?! Gay Socialites
KY Bill bans same-sex partner benefits in state schools
FRANKFORT, Ky. -- Kentucky's eight public universities and other state agencies would be prevented from offering benefits to gay and lesbian partners of employees under a bill the Senate passed yesterday. The vote on Senate Bill 112 was 30-5, with Democratic Sens. Ernesto Scorsone of Lexington, Denise Harper Angel of Louisville, Gerald Neal of Louisville, R.J. Palmer of Winchester and Tim Shaughnessy of Louisville voting against it. See Bill bans same-sex partner benefits
The Courier-Journal
SJSU suspends blood drives, citing FDA ban on donations by gay men
In a controversial move believed to be a first by an American college, San Jose State University President Don Kassing has suspended all campus blood drives because of a longstanding government policy that bars gay men from donating blood.
The policy by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration "affecting gay men violates our non-discrimination policy," Kassing said in a lengthy e-mail sent to faculty, staff and students earlier this week.
The issue has cropped up on college campuses across the country, primarily as gay student groups protest blood drives. The American Red Cross and other national organizations that regularly run blood drives have also been pushing the FDA to revise the policy, which has been in place since AIDS first emerged in the United States in the early 1980s. State-of-the-art blood-screening techniques make the lifetime ban unnecessary, the groups say. See SJSU suspends blood drives, citing FDA ban on donations by gay men
San Jose Mercury News,
Surrogacy for gay couples'
| Health authorities are considering paying up to £15,000 to surrogate mothers to help homosexual couples have children. North Essex Primary Care Trust has been asked to pay toward a surrogate mother. The PCT said it would also have to consider whether to pay toward surrogates for homosexual couples and single people. In a report to the PCT, Dr Rebecca Gibbs said: "The majority of applications for surrogacy to be funded on the NHS stem from heterosexual couples, but consideration would need to be taken for any homosexual couple or single person who wished to become a parent through surrogacy." |
Surrogacy for gay couples'
Telegraph.co.uk, United Kingdom -
Queer consumer survey surprises
We all know the popular myths about us: Gay men are rich, lesbians love children and pets, and we all work as nurses. As it turns out, there's some truth to those stereotypes.
A recent survey of 25,000 gays and lesbians revealed some fascinating facts about lesbian and gay life. Read abou them @ Queer consumer survey surprises
Gay.com UK, UK
Memorial to Nazis' gay victims in works
A new Berlin memorial to the Nazis’ gay victims — including a video presentation showing same-sex couples kissing — should be ready within months, officials said Thursday. Memorial to Nazis' gay victims in works
Spaniards Overwhelmingly Approve Of Gay Marriages
With just over a month before Spain goes to the polls the Socialist government's same-sex marriage law is causing barely a ripple in the campaign. See Spaniards Overwhelmingly Approve Of Gay Marriages
365Gay.com -
Study: More than 600000 in US have HIV
Less than 1 percent of U.S. adults ages 18-49 who are not homeless or incarcerated have contracted HIV, according to a national study released Tuesday.The Center for Health Statistics' evaluation of HIV patients in the country shows that 600,000 people in this group -- which excludes those who are homeless, prisoners or patients in institutions -- have the virus.
Men were more likely to be infected than women (0.7 percent versus 0.2 percent). Also, those who were infected with genital herpes were 15 times more likely to also have HIV, according to Reuters. Also, black men ages 40-49 had the highest rate of infection at nearly 4 percent. See Study: More than 600000 in US have HIV
Gay.com, CA -
Florida Coalitions Warn Primary Voters About Anti-Gay Amendment
The Jan. 29 primary that saw John McCain beat out Mitt Romney in Florida also brought legions of Floridians to the polls to combat an anti-gay constitutional amendment that opponents say would also hurt heterosexual families.
Volunteers and staff from organizations and coalitions opposed to the so-called Marriage Protection Amendment worked the polling place crowds on Tues., Jan. 29, talking to voters about the impact the amendment might have on families of all sexual persuasions if the amendment were to land on the ballot for the general election and be approved by Florida voters next November.See Florida Coalitions Warn Primary Voters About Anti-Gay Amendment
EDGE Boston, MA
HIV Races Like Pac-Man Through Body
The AIDS virus has hideouts deep in the immune system that today's drugs can't reach. Now scientists finally have discovered how HIV builds one of those fortresses — and they're exploring whether a drug already used to fight a parasite in developing countries just might hold a key to break in.
Researchers have long struggled unsuccessfully to attack what they call reservoirs of dormant HIV, and the new work is in very early stages.
But University of Rochester scientists say it may be fairly straightforward to attack one of these reservoirs, blood cells called macrophages that HIV hijacks and turns into viral hideaways.
The new discovery shows the exact steps that HIV takes to do that — and found that some existing drugs, including a long-used treatment for leishmaniasis called miltefosine, can block the main step and thus cause these cells to self-destruct.
"It's a very smart virus," said lead researcher Dr. Baek Kim. "They have to have a very good fence to protect their house for a long time. ... Get rid of the fence, and now their house is gone."
Anti-gay adoption bill filed in Tennessee
Yesterday, Rep. John Deberry (D-Memphis) and Senator Paul Stanley (R-Memphis) filed companion bills that would prohibit “any individual who is cohabitating in a sexual relationship outside of a marriage that is valid under the constitution and laws of this state from adopting a minor.” The companion bills are SB3910 and HB3713. It is more than a little disturbing to realize that people believe–even in today’s world– that gay and lesbian people can not be (or already are) great parents. I think it goes deeper than that. Gay and lesbian people have consistently been the great whipping boys (and girls) of conservative neocons who appeal to a deep hatred for the gay community to help boost their own popularity. Sadly, this kind of contempt goes far beyond mere religious views. Anti-gay adoption bill filed in Tennessee
Clarksville Online, TN
Gyllenhaal 'happy' to be gay icon
Jake Gyllenhaal has revealed that he is happy to be a gay icon following his role in Brokeback Mountain.
The 27-year-old played a gay rodeo cowboy in the 2005 movie, which also starred late actor Heath Ledger.
He insisted that had no problem being a heartthrob for the homosexual community, saying: "I'm comfortable with whatever status I have. It's flattering." Gyllenhaal 'happy' to be gay icon
Digital Spy, UK
Federal Appeals Court Says It's OK for School to Teach Children's Book Encouraging Tolerance for Gay People
BOSTON – A Massachusetts federal appeals court today ruled that an elementary school can continue to use children's books that encourage tolerance for gay people. The ACLU cheers the decision, which rejected the claims of parents who said exposing their children to such books violated their ability to direct the religious training of their children.
Noting that there has never been a federal case finding a constitutional right of parents to exempt their children from exposure to books used in public schools, the court said, "There is no free exercise right to be free from any reference in public elementary schools to the existence of families in which the parents are of different gender combinations."
"The courts have rightfully found that parents can't control which books are used in school just because they are in conflict with their personal religious beliefs," said Sarah Wunsch, ACLU of Massachusetts staff attorney. "School administrators and teachers can take heart from this and not be afraid to use materials that show diverse families just because a handful of parents might object."
The two families objecting to the use of the books filed suit after the Lexington Superintendent of Schools released a public statement explaining the school district's position that it would not provide parental notification for "discussions, activities, or materials that simply reference same-gender parents or that otherwise recognize the existence of differences in sexual orientation."
The court noted that "Public schools often walk a tightrope between the many competing constitutional demands made by parents, students, teachers, and the schools' other constituents… The balance the school struck here does not offend the Free Exercise or Due Process clauses of the U.S. Constitution.”
"The ACLU supports the rights of parents to religious freedom, which includes the right to talk to their children about what they are learning in school, giving them alternative materials, and conveying their values and beliefs," said Wunsch. "Ultimately, if parents object to public education, they also have a constitutional right to send their children to private schools, to home school them, and to lobby their local school officials for changes in the curriculum. But they do not have a federal constitutional right to control the material that is taught to all students."
The ACLU of Massachusetts filed a friend of the court brief urging dismissal of the case, Parker v. Hurley, on behalf of local Lexington parents, teachers, and religious groups, as well as civil rights organizations that supported the teaching of diversity and respect for others. These groups were Lexington CARES, Lexington Education Association, Massachusetts Teachers Association, and Respecting Differences. Boston attorneys Eben Krim and Mark Batten of Proskauer Rose worked on the brief with the ACLU. An appeal was heard in December after the court dismissed the case in February 2007.
Today’s ruling was issued by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.
The books at issue in the case were "Molly's Family," "King and King," and "Who's In A Family?"
A copy of the ruling is available online:
http://www.ca1.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/getopn.pl?OPINION=07-1528.01A
Spac e, The Final Frontier for Homosexuality
There has been openly gay television actors and characters, there has been openly gay (retired) NFL football players, there has even been an openly gay US Republican Member of Congress, but there has never been an openly gay astronaut, active or retired.
With over 450 people having flown into space, odds are there has been at least one gay person in space already, but the conservative nature of NASA and the military heritage of many of the astronauts may combine to make it difficult for astronauts to be open about their sexual orientation. Add to that that US astronauts all live and train in Texas, where sodomy laws remained on the books until 2003 (when a Supreme Court ruling forced Texas to take them out), and you can begin to get a sense of the atmosphere. The atmosphere in Russia has not been much better. See Space, The Final Frontier for Homosexuality
Wired News -
Arthur B. Kramer, Lawyer and Brother of Playwright Larry Kramer ...
rthur B. Kramer, who built a small New York law firm into one with international reach and whose fraught relationship with his brother, Larry Kramer, the playwright and gay rights advocate, helped inspire a benchmark play of the 1980s, died on Saturday. He was 81 and lived in Stamford, Conn.
Outside legal circles, Mr. Kramer was perhaps best known as the inspiration for the character of Ben Weeks in “The Normal Heart,” the autobiographical 1985 play written by his younger brother, Larry, which used the theater to bring attention to the AIDS crisis. In the play, Ben is painfully ambivalent about his brother’s homosexuality. In real life, Arthur ultimately came to accept Larry as a gay man, a reconciliation that was the subject of a front-page article in The New York Times in 2006.
Five years earlier, Arthur Kramer gave Yale University a $1 million grant to create the Larry Kramer Initiative for Lesbian and Gay Studies. His influence also led his law firm to become active, on a pro bono basis, in causes like marriage rights for gay couples More of Arthur B. Kramer, Lawyer and Brother of Playwright Larry Kramer ...
New York Times, United States
Should I marry my gay best friend?
Q. I am a single mother of a 3-year-old boy, the result of an unplanned pregnancy. His father is a mess and not much a part of his life. A divorce is in the works.
Recently, a very close friend of mine who is a gay man has decided to enlist in the military. He has proposed a solution to both of our dilemmas by asking that we marry.
More of Should I marry my gay best friend?
MSNBC -
COLIN IS HIS GAY BRO'S BEST MAN
Colin Farrell, who played bisexual in A Home At the End of the World and gay(ish) in Alexander is to take on another gay role, this time as the best man at the wedding of his gay brother, Eamon. The Farrells are apparently very close and Colin reportedly helped his bro pick out the wedding ring. COLIN IS HIS GAY BRO’S BEST MAN
GCN, Ireland -
CA Anti-gay initiative drive back on
After several months of apparent inactivity, one of the proposed anti-gay marriage state constitutional amendments may be gathering steam and could be headed for the November ballot.
Equality for All, a coalition of LGBT and other civil rights groups, is preparing to fight the possible initiative. Geoff Kors, executive director of Equality California, which is part of Equality for All, said the National Organization for Marriage and ProtectMarriage.com are working to promote the measure.
Signature gatherers have been spotted by people out in the field, Kors told the Bay Area Reporter Tuesday, January 29.
He said the measure's supporters have raised over $350,000 so far, and he said signatures are being collected in the Sacramento and Central Valley areas, as well as in Southern California. Kors said there isn't "extensive visibility" yet and that he wasn't aware of signatures being gathered in the Bay Area.
Kors said the anti-gay groups need about 1.1 million signatures by April 21 in order to collect the nearly 700,000 valid signatures needed to put the measure before voters.
Kors said he and others just learned of the group's efforts last week, and are working to develop plans of their own.
"We're gearing up," Kors said. "We have a campaign consultant, and we're going to do everything we can to defeat it."
See Anti-gay initiative drive back on
Bay Area Reporter, CA
Sirius Radio hosts gay presidential caucus today
Sirius Radio hosts gay presidential caucus today
Washington Blade Editor Kevin Naff will be calling in to grill the candidates on Michelangelo Signorile's Sirius show on OutQ, the nation's only 24/7 gay radio channel, from 3 - 5 p.m. Eastern on channel 109. Non-members can listen to the show for free here.
Sirius Radio hosts gay presidential caucus today
Houstonvoice.com, TX
UK may pay $30,000 for surrogate mothers to help gay couples
Surrogate mothers could be given up to £15,000 of NHS money to have children for gay couples, it emerged yesterday. North East Essex Primary Care Trust is considering funding the service for couples who can't have children - whether they are heterosexual or same-sex. If the proposals are approved, the health service will pay for IVF cycles and "expenses" which surrogate mothers are allowed to claim. Details emerged after trust bosses discussed the issue at a recent board meeting following "several" enquiries in recent months. A report presented at the meeting stated: "It appears that the majority of applications for surrogacy to be funded on the NHS stem from heterosexual couples, but consideration would need to be taken for any homosexual couple or single person who wished to become a parent through surrogacy." It added: "There are more extreme scenarious to consider, such as the husband or parents of a dead woman applying for surrogacy to provide a baby using the dead woman's embryo." Surrogate mothers could be paid £15000 by NHS to help gay couples ...
Daily Mail, UK -
Oregon Gay Couples Protest Delay In Partner Law
Oregon Gay Couples Protest Delay In Partner Law
365Gay.com - The law was passed after a legal battle for gay marriage failed. The issue of same-sex marriage in the state arose in March 2004 when Multnomah County began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples.
Florida High School Suggests Students Who Support Gay Rights Are an "Illegal Organization" - ACLU Sues
PONCE DE LEON, FL – A Florida high school has been trampling the First Amendment rights of students who support equal rights for gay people, according to a federal lawsuit filed today by the American Civil Liberties Union. In its lawsuit, the ACLU described an atmosphere of fear and censorship at Ponce de Leon High School, where the school board’s attorney says even expressions like a rainbow sticker may mean students are members of an “illegal organization.”
“All any of us wants to do is be able to talk about gay rights issues without having to be scared,” said Heather Gillman, a 16-year-old junior at the school. “Nobody should have to worry about being kicked out of school just for having a rainbow sticker on your notebook.”
The ACLU sent a letter in November to the school board’s attorney on behalf of Gillman, asking for clarification as to whether a variety of symbols and slogans, such as the rainbow flag or “I support my gay friends,” would be allowed at the school. The school district replied that it would not allow any expressions of support for gay rights at all because such speech would “likely be disruptive.” The district then went even further, claiming that such symbols and slogans were signs that students were part of a “secret/illegal organization.”
The letter was sent after Gillman and other students approached the ACLU about an atmosphere in which students say they were routinely intimidated by school officials for things like writing “gay pride” on their arms and notebooks or wearing rainbow-themed clothing. According to students, problems began in September when a lesbian student tried to report to school officials that she was being harassed by other students because she is a lesbian. Instead of addressing the harassment, students say the school responded with intimidation and censorship.
“Because the Supreme Court has held that students have a right to free speech at school unless that speech disrupts the educational process, many administrators think they can just slap the label ‘disruptive’ on anything they don’t like and get away with stomping on students’ First Amendment rights. The law doesn’t work that way,” said Benjamin James Stevenson, a staff attorney for the ACLU of Florida. “School should be a marketplace of ideas, where students share new ideas and learn about themselves and others. Just talking about gay rights or any other topic outside of class isn’t inherently disruptive.”
In the complaint filed today, the ACLU asked the court for an injunction to stop Ponce de Leon High School officials from suppressing students’ First Amendment rights in the future.
“Writing something like ‘I support gay rights’ on your notebook doesn’t mean you’re part of some secret conspiracy or shadowy organization,” said Christine Sun, a staff attorney with the ACLU’s national Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Project. “Schools shouldn’t be in the business of trying to frighten students into silence.”
Ponce de Leon High School is located halfway between Pensacola and Tallahassee, in Florida’s panhandle. According to the school’s website, about 400 students are enrolled there. Heather Gillman is represented by Stevenson and Robert Rosenwald of the ACLU of Florida and Sun of the ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Project
Gillman v. Holmes County School District, case no. 5:08-cv-34, was filed in the U.S. District Court of the Northern District of Florida. A copy today’s complaint as well as the ACLU’s earlier letter and the school’s response can be downloaded at http://www.aclu.org/lgbt/youth/33859res20080131.html.
For more information on the ACLU’s LGBT advocacy work, visit www.aclufl.org or www.aclu.org/lgbt.
Porn Coming To A Cell Phone Near You
Size matters in pornography, except when it comes to tiny mobile phone screens, the next frontier for erotica.
If the adult entertainment industry has its way, Americans will soon get a choice of free porn on cellphones, or at least some photographs of good-looking girls in bikinis.
Unlike in Europe, mobile porn has yet to take off in North America as carriers have been afraid of offending political and religious groups and parents concerned about children being exposed to adult content.
That might change this year as phone companies plan to relax control on their networks to allow a wider variety of gadgets and services, while introducing tools to shield minors. More advanced phones with better Web browsers like Apple Inc's iPhone also offer higher quality pictures and video.
Barbara Walters Bans Kathy Griffin From "The View" - Again
"I was supposed to be on 'The View' [today]," said Griffin, who performs her final sold-out stand-up show tonight at Madison Square Garden. "But then I get a call from [producer] Bill Geddie, and he says, 'You were too mean to Barbara [Walters] on your last special, so you can't come on.' Can you believe it? I've been banned before but never re-banned!" Barbara Walters Bans Kathy Griffin From "The View" — Again
January 30, 2008
Gujarat's gay prince to adopt child soon
BHARUCH: Gujarat's gay prince of Rajpipla, Manavendrasinh Gohil, who was disinherited by the family for going public about being gay but later taken back into the fold, now wants to carry on the royal bloodline, in a manner of speaking.
The gay prince, who wants to ensure the lineage does not end with him just because he can't have children, wants to adopt a child and make him the royal heir. Manavendra hit the headlines recently by going on the Oprah Winfrey Show and proclaiming his homosexuality. Gujarat's gay prince to adopt child soon
Times of India, India
LAist Interview: Jim Wirt, aka, Gay Bigfoot
Jim Wirt is a St. Louis native living in LA, but most people know him as Gay Bigfoot. The 42-year-old North Hollywood resident moved out to Los Angeles in 1996 and is a local artist who recently found himself in the middle of some online censorship when he tried to get one of his pieces printed on a t-shirt. Here's his story... @ LAist Interview: Jim Wirt, aka, Gay Bigfoot
LAist, CA -
Queer Editor Goes Ex-Gay
The religious ex-gay movement is unfortunately live and well, also outside of the United States; Chilean online editor Victor Jorquera is the latest victim of the despicable movement, saying he has given up on being gay to work with conservative Evangelicals.
Spain's AmbienteG reports that the founder of the prominent gay web site GayChile.com, is actually aligned with the Biblical Missionary Church of Paraguay, a homophobic evangelical fundamentalist group. AmbienteG says the influence of this institution has made Jorquera not only renounce his own sexuality but also make homophobic comments.Queer Editor Goes Ex-Gay
Bgay.com, FL
Okeechobee school district asks for judgment on whether gay-themed ...
The Okeechobee School District has asked federal courts for a summary judgment on whether a Gay-Straight Alliance should be allowed to meet on the Okeechobee High School campus.
In papers filed Tuesday with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District, lawyers for the school district also is asking for a hearing on the motion.
“Summary judgment is proper in this case because there is no genuine issue of material fact,” the motion says. The motion contends the district legitimately had the authority under the Federal Equal Access Act and current case law to determine the formation of the student group would not protect the well-being of students at Okeechobee High.
But American Civil Liberties Union attorney Robert Rosenwald Jr. said the board violated the Equal Access Act by banning the alliance but allowing other clubs to meet on school campus.
Okeechobee school district asks for judgment on whether gay-themed ...
TCPalm, FL
Lesbian activist's residency disputed in lawsuit
A prominent lesbian activist is seeking to clarify where she lives as she works to avoid testifying in a civil lawsuit against the Democratic National Committee. Lesbian activist’s residency disputed in lawsuit
Outing campaign roils D.C. black Baptist church
One of Washington’s largest black Baptist churches was rocked by a female member of its choir who sent separate e-mail messages to the pastor in December and January outing more than 100 church members as gay, mostly male choir members.
The outings added to the inner turmoil experienced by a large number of gays who attend services at the 7,000-member Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church, located on Rhode Island Ave., N.E., according to a gay former member who provided copies of the e-mails to the Blade.
More of Outing campaign roils D.C. black Baptist church
Senate OKs same-sex marriage ban
The Senate voted 39-9 Tuesday to amend Indiana's Constitution to state that marriage is only between one man and one woman. The amendment now goes to the House, where it died last year and where it's stalled again this year. Senate OKs same-sex marriage ban
Indianapolis Star
Gay Employees Try To Activate Slow Changing State Department
Oregon-born Aaron Jensen has dedicated the past seven years of his life to the Department of State. Despite his dedication, our government still refuses to grant Jensen and other gay employees the same benefits offered to straight officials. The unspoken discrimination made big headlines last year when former Romanian Ambassador Michael Guest blasted Condoleezza Rice and others for their inaction on gay equality.
Jensen hopes that he won’t have to do the same. That’s why he heads up the 400-strong Gays and Lesbians in Foreign Affairs Agencies, which strives to revamp the Department’s employment policies. Our editor recently sat down with Jensen to talk shop. The results are intriguing, particularly because Jensen - who spoke in fairly calm, nearly monotonous tones - attempts to toe the line while also advocating for gay rights. It’s an odd combination, to be sure, but not surprising considering the circumstances.
See Gay Employees Try To Activate Slow Changing State Department
Queerty, NY
Cynthia Nixon to Receive Point Courage Award and Time Warner to Receive Point Inspiration Award at Organization's Annual New York Benefit
Point Foundation (Point), the nation's largest scholarship-granting organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students of merit, today announced the recipients of its Courage and Inspiration awards. Cynthia Nixon, the Tony(R) and Emmy(R) award-winning actress who has made her mark in television, theater and film in such memorable characters in HBO's Sex and the City as Miranda Hobbes and as Eleanor Roosevelt in Warm Springs, will receive the Point Courage Award; Time Warner will receive the Point Inspiration Award. Both awards will be presented at Point's annual New York benefit, Point Foundation Honors...The Arts, which will be held on April 7, 2008 at the Capitale on Bowery.
The Point Courage Award recognizes an individual who has selflessly advocated for the future of the LGBT community and lives with the vision that investing in today's potential will produce a brighter tomorrow. The Point Inspiration Award recognizes a corporation that champions respect and inclusion of the LGBT community, and operates with the vision that the success achieved by talented young people is limited only by the resources and opportunities they are given to help them fulfill their potential.
"Not only does Cynthia Nixon lead a phenomenally successful career as an actress, she is also a strong supporter of New York City Public Schools and an advocate for quality education and it is with great pleasure that we will present her with the Point Courage Award," said Jorge Valencia, executive director and chief executive officer of Point Foundation. "For her position in the LGBT community and pursuit of quality education for today's youth, Cynthia stands as a source of hope and inspiration to potential Point Scholars."
Students who are awarded the organization's prestigious scholarships, known as Point Scholars, are selected through a rigorous and highly competitive process that requires a record of demonstrated academic excellence, leadership skills and financial need. This year's New York benefit celebrates the arts and recognizes Point Scholars who are currently pursuing education in a diverse variety of artistic endeavors, including music, interior design, architecture, film and the vocal and visual performing arts. A number of these Point Scholars will attend the benefit.
"Time Warner has demonstrated bold leadership in workplace equality and inclusive programming of LGBT people and the issues they face and we are thrilled to honor the corporation with the Point Inspiration Award," said Jorge Valencia. "A corporation with a stellar reputation in the LGBT community, receiving recognition for excellence by both GLAAD and the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index, Time Warner is Point Foundation's first and longest standing corporate partner."
NYC Wants to Ban LGBT Workplace Discrimination
In a message to corporate America, New York City's Comptroller William Thompson and The New York City Pension funds have asked local corporations to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The corporations under fire from officials have received billions of dollars in investments from the city, yet have archaic discrimination policies that leave the LGBT out and vulnerable to workplace harassment or worse. Though City Comptroller admits investments will remain unaffected whether or not corporations chose to evolve their policies, the targeted companies are responding. NYC Wants to Ban LGBT Workplace Discrimination
Angel City's Devil, CA -
Gay marriage not on ballot, but still an issue at polls Tuesday
Supporters and opponents of the idea of a state constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage were working the polls Tuesday.
The subject wasn't even on the ballot — and may never make it before Florida voters.
But that didn't stop activists on both sides. Gay marriage not on ballot, but still an issue at polls Tuesday
Sun-Sentinel.com, FL
Gay OAP home a success
Europe's first old people's home for gay residents is already a huge success in its first month.
The purpose-built, four-story facility in Berlin, which caters for 28 residents in luxury rooms, is fully booked.
The home for elderly homosexuals was first proposed in 1995 but plans were only drafted in 2001
Gay OAP home a success
Ananova, UK
PICTURING HARVEY MILK
"Milk," which stars Sean Penn as the groundbreaking gay politician, won't be in theaters until some time next year. But the making of the film on the streets of San Francisco - especially Castro Street - excavates a potent piece of the city's history. Feelings are running high about the movie as the Castro takes on the trappings of a '70s neighborhood.
People who lived through the era are revisiting the turbulence and exhilaration of Milk's rise to prominence as one of the first openly gay people in the country to hold a major elective office. They are also remembering the black day in November 1978 when Milk and Mayor George Moscone were shot and killed by aggrieved rival Dan White in City Hall.
See PICTURING HARVEY MILK
San Francisco Chronicle, USA - 7 hours ago
First Look: Sean Penn as Harvey Milk in Gus Van Sant's Milk
Check out the first photo of Sean Penn as Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man elected to any substantial political office in the history of the planet (according to Time Magazine). Gus Van Sant is filming the biopic in San Francisco, where parts of the Castro District have been retrofitted back to the 1970’s See First Look: Sean Penn as Harvey Milk in Gus Van Sant’s Milk /FILM
Gay and Lesbian Lifesavers Needed
Lifesavers with Pride, the national group of gay and lesbian Australian surf lifesavers are reporting that new lifesaver recruits have doubled in the past 12 months. The national body are directly linking the increase in numbers to the visibility lifesavers gained from its debut during the 2007 Mardi Gras Parade. And with the 30th Anniversary of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade around the corner, bigger things are expected. Gay and Lesbian Lifesavers Needed
GenerationQ, Australia
Bush greets gay Congressman's boyfriend
It was a moment of affection between two politicians, and in normal circumstances it would pass unnoticed.
But when one is the only out gay man in Congress and the other a President who has revelled in his hostility to gay marriage, their closeness raises eyebrows.
After his final State of the Union address to both Houses of Congress on Monday, President George W Bush greeted Congressman Barney Frank with a shoulder and head touch, as the two shared a personal moment. Bush greets gay Congressman's boyfriend
PinkNews.co.uk, UK
Czech Gay marriages on the rise
n March of 2006 Czech homosexuals celebrated an important victory. After seven years of intensive lobbying the Czech Parliament finally passed a law on same-sex partnerships or so called gay-marriages, overriding president Klaus’s veto by a narrow majority. A year and a half later the number of registered partnerships between same-sex couples in the Czech Republic has reached nearly five hundred. Ruth Fraňková spoke to Slavomír Goga from the Gay and Lesbian League and started by asking whether the new law had made a significant difference to the life of the gay and lesbian community.
“Definitely. The law had enormous significance for the whole gay and lesbian community in the Czech Republic not only from the symbolic point of view, in terms of giving us equal rights, but also from a practical point of view, because many couples decided to tie the knot and use the legal benefits of this institution in everyday life.”
Gay marriages on the rise
Radio Prague, Czech Republic
Seth MacFarlane: 'Stewie Griffin Gay, And The Parents TV Council Can Blow Me If They Don't Like It'
The Advocate cornered Seth MacFarlane, the multi-talented creator of venerable envelope-nudging Fox animated hit The Family Guy, for an off-the-velvet-cuff conversation about how homosexuality figures into his own brand of flashback-reliant comedy. Despite an affection for musical numbers that would suggest otherwise, MacFarlane is straight. Still, see Seth MacFarlane: 'Stewie Griffin Gay, And The Parents TV Council ...
Defamer Australia, Australia - 14 hours ago
Drive kicks off to ban foster care by partners
The chief backer of a proposed law that would exclude unmarried couples from adopting or becoming foster parents kicked off a petition drive Thursday, saying the initiative is necessary in part to “blunt the political agenda” of gay activists.
Jerry Cox, president of the Arkansas Family Council Action Committee, said the Arkansas Adoption and Foster Care Act is needed primarily to protect the welfare of children but also to encourage more people to become foster parents by raising awareness of the need.
“Anyone who tells you that this initiated act is only about gay adoption is not telling you the whole story,” Cox said at a news conference in the state Capitol. “Anyone who will tell you, though, that gay adoption has nothing to do with this act wouldn’t be telling you the whole story, either.” The committee started its petition campaign with the signatures of current and former foster fathers who are on its board of directors — the first of at least 61, 974 Arkansas registered voter signatures the group must gather to qualify the measure for the ballot Nov. 4.
Drive kicks off to ban foster care by partners
Arkansas Democrat Gazette
Virginia couple inspires insurance legislation
The inability of a Virginia resident to take out a life insurance policy on his same-sex partner has inspired a piece of legislation that is before the state’s legislature. Virginia law restricts supplemental life insurance coverage to legal spouses and dependent children under 19 or 25 if the child is a full-time student. Virginia couple inspires insurance legislation
‘Outdated’ law prevents company from providing partner coverage
Az Gov: Abstinence-Only Ed A Failure
Az Gov: Abstinence-Only Ed A Failure
(Phoenix, Arizona) Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano (D) is telling the Bush administration that the state does not want $1 million in federal funding for abstinence-only education because the programs don't work.
Tatchell amubshes Pakistani President's motorcade
Human rights activist Peter Tatchell has taken direct action against the President of Pakistan by running in front of his car in a London street.
He was protesting against President Musharraf's actions against civilians in occupied Baluchistan region.
The Presidential motorcade was nearing the Park Lane hotel in London on Friday night, where General Musharraf was due to speak.
click here for the full article
Zimbabwe Is, Like, So Gay
Robert Mugabe wants to world to think that Zimbabwe has no gays. Canadian professor Marc Epprecht and his “Gay Rural History Project” say otherwise. Not only are there gays in Zim, but they’ve been around far longer than colonial influence. See Zimbabwe Is, Like, So Gay
Queerty, NY
Lesbian Adoption Win in Iowa
Supreme Court OKs second-parent proceeding; anti-marriage forces alarmed
January 29, 2008
Despite Hometown Advantage, Clinton Has Her Doubters
Among New York's LGBT voters Clinton faces questions about racial sensitivity while Obama suffers for his support of Donnie McClurkin, an 'ex-gay' gospel singer and fierce opponent of the LGBT community.
Gay Argentineans Marry in Spain
Cesar Cigluitti, leader of the Argentine Homosexual Community, married his partner, gay activist Marcelo Suntheim, in Spain this week, taking advantage of Suntheim's dual citizenship in Germany, entitling him to marry in Spain, another EU country. "We want Argentina to recognize us as well," Cigliutti told the Associated Press. Gay Argentineans Marry in Spain
Spitzer Hailed for AIDS Budget
Housing Works, the AIDS housing and activist group, is praising New York Governor Eliot Spitzer for restoring in his new budget "a $573/month assistance to over 1,000 low-income families" for which the group had been fighting in court since 2003. Spitzer Hailed for AIDS Budget
CDC extends strategy on HIV prevention
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted an updated HIV Prevention Strategic Plan on its Web site on Jan. 3. It “will guide the agency’s HIV prevention efforts for the next three years,” Robert S. Janssen, MD, wrote to state and local officials. Janssen heads up those activities at the CDC.
The document updates a five-year plan covering 2001 to 2005, which has been in limbo for the last two years. The original plan had set a goal of cutting the number of new infections in half.
However, according to current CDC estimates, the number of new infections has not declined at all. And leaked reports of the CDC’s new estimates, likely to be released later this month, are that the number of new infections may actually have increased, perhaps substantially.
“There is a strong feeling in the community and among researchers in public health that the scale of HIV prevention efforts has not been at the level yet, is not at the critical mass that is needed to make the impact that is needed,” he said. CDC extends strategy on HIV prevention »
: Actor Heath Ledger's Death Mocked on Fox Radio
Fox Radio host John Gibson cruelly mocked actor Heath Ledger's death and his role in Brokeback Mountain during his Jan. 22nd radio broadcast.
Read the complete story here and express your view to FOX.
Dear Yahoo Group Members,
For your convenience I've included all the contact information for FOX Broadcast officials including Mr. Gibson's. Let's flood their inbox with emails and I-Phones with voice messages!!!
Regards & Respect,
David L. Wylie
Senior Editor
www.Gaysofla.com
Steve Francis announces bid for mayor in San Diego
Steve Francis confirmed Tuesday he would enter the San Diego mayoral race. In the announcement of his second bid for the position, Francis highlighted his desire to free San Diego from the grip of special interests and to restore fiscal integrity, ethics and transparency in city government.
The mayoral hopeful who placed third in the 2005 primary election, said his decision to run again followed months of meetings with neighborhood groups, business owners, community and labor leaders and citizens. Francis has also said he would have vetoed the City Council’s decision last year to sign an amicus brief in support of same-sex marriage.
We'll Always Remember Him On Brokeback Mountain
Heath Ledger changed hearts and minds in immeasurable ways. He will be greatly missed.
Comedienne Kathy Griffin has been dropped from "The View"
She tells the New York Post's gossip column Page Six, "I was supposed to be on 'The View' (today). But then I get a call from (producer) Bill Geddie, and he says, 'You were too mean to Barbara on your last special, so you can't come on.' Can you believe it? I've been banned before but never re-banned!" Griffin in Second TV Snub
Amnesty: Stop Gay Executions in Iran
Amnesty International has issued a worldwide call to halt the executions of two men convicted of "kidnapping or raping two men in the Southern Fars province," in a January 18 press release. The imminent punishment will involve the men being thrown from a cliff or other height to their deaths. Amnesty wants the sentences commuted.
Ariel Herrera, head of Amnesty's program on LGBT rights, said, "The sentence passed in this case is exceptional in its apparent intent to inflict suffering." Tehran's Centre for Human Rights Defenders, which includes Nobel Peace Laureate Shirin Ebadi, also condemned the sentences.
For information on the worldwide denunciation of these planned executions, click here
San Digo Firefighters' Pride lawsuit asks $750,000 apiece
Firefighters proudly participated in the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade in Downtown last weekend. However they did so voluntarily because the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department revised its policy requiring firefighters to participate in local parades last summer.
The “backdraft” that followed the lawsuit filed by four firefighters – all members of Station 5 located in the heart of Hillcrest – who claimed their battalion chief ordered them to ride in the annual San Diego Pride Parade, has now reportedly led each firefighter to ask for $750,000.
Firefighters’ Pride lawsuit asks $750,000 apiece »
Somewhere beyond the rainbow
As Church-Wellesley gets gentrified, gay, lesbian enclaves pop up all over town, `There's a lot of power in a centralized location, you feel that power, you feel in the majority. But in moving away you get the sense of being comfortable with anyone' Somewhere beyond the rainbow
Toronto Star, Canada -
Does a same-sex rape make The Kite Runner gay? Tom O'Neil explains why he thinks it does.
os Angeles Times blogger Tom O'Neil recently posted on his blog The Gold Derby about GLAAD's nominations being "bizarre" for not being gay enough. As proof he cited the fact that GLAAD hadn't nominated The Kite Runner. Said O'Neil:
One great film with a gay subtext got overlooked by other awards this derby season and deserved to be noted here, but wasn't: "The Kite Runner," which contains a controversial boy-rape scene. Why did GLAAD wimp out?
For those not familiar with either the book or the movie, The Kite Runner tells the story of two boys growing up in Kabul, Afghanistan, the wealthy Amir and his friend Hassan, the son of his father's servant. When Hassan is raped by Assef, (a teenage boy who grows up to be a pedophile), Amir does nothing to help him and, in fact, later commits a horrible act of betrayal against his friend.
Does a same-sex rape make The Kite Runner gay? Tom O'Neil explains ...
AfterElton.com -
McCain Accused Of Gay Baiting In Anti-Romney Attack
On the eve of the Florida Republican primary, Sen. John McCain launched a robo-call campaign attacking his rival Mitt Romney that some gay rights groups say amounts to gay baiting.
The call, which comes at the end of a hotly contested election that could very well determine the GOP nominee, reads as follows [emphasis added]: See McCain Accused Of Gay Baiting In Anti-Romney Attack
Huffington Post, NY
Gay hate church picket Hollywood awards ceremony
Members of the Westboro Baptist Church have picketed an awards ceremony where fellow actors paid tribute to Heath Ledger.
Church members displayed signs reading "Heath’s in Hell" at film stars attending the Screen Actors Guild Awards. Gay hate church picket Hollywood awards ceremony
PinkNews.co.uk, UK
Tories banned gay organ donors for votes: NDP health critic
The federal Conservative government is being accused of political interference in the recent decision to ban gay men from donating organs.
The decision by Health Canada, enacted quietly in December, prohibits a man who has had sex with another man even once in the past five years from donating organs.
"Given that there has been no demonstrated scientific evidence of problems with donations from gay men it can only be a result of ideology on the part of the Conservative government and their ongoing homophobia," says Judy Wasylycia-Leis, the health critic for the New Democratic Party. "They're catering to their religious and conservative base. Tories banned gay organ donors for votes: NDP health critic
Xtra.ca, Canada
Police investigate alleged rape in gay sauna
Officers from the Greater Manchester police have sealed off an area in the centre of the city around a gay sauna. It is thought their investigations focus on the Basement Sauna on Tariff St. A rape reportedly took place at around 02:00 this morning. Police investigate alleged rape in gay sauna
PinkNews.co.uk, UK
Milwaukee Guerrilla Gay Bar makes its move
The Milwaukee Guerrilla Gay Bar is not a new local LGBT bar. That would be way too obvious. In fact, it's not a bar at all; it's more like a movement.
Inspired by similar groups in Los Angeles and San Francisco, MGGB is a collective of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Milwaukeeans -- and their friends and supporters -- who stage friendly takeovers of traditionally straight bars throughout the city.
It happens the first Friday of every month as a means to stir up the routines of not only the gay community but the straights as well. The bars never know they're coming and the result is undoubtedly a new experience for everyone. Most important, it's meant to be fun. Milwaukee Guerrilla Gay Bar makes its move
OnMilwaukee.com, Milwaukee
I'm not gay, says Daniel Johns - did anyone ask?
FOR the past few years, there's been speculation about Daniel Johns' sexuality. But the Silverchair frontman wants everyone to know - he's not gay.
At Monday's Big Day Out at Flemington, Johns told the crowd in no uncertain terms that he's a red-blooded heterosexual male.
"I'm not f------ gay," he said between songs.
I'm not gay, says Daniel Johns
Melbourne Herald Sun, Australia
High HIV incidence amongst gay men with syphilis in the US
US investigators have found a high incidence of recent HIV infection amongst men diagnosed with primary or secondary syphilis. In a study published in the February 1st edition of the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes HIV incidence was 11% amongst gay men with early forms of syphilis. The investigators suggest “intensive and integrated HIV/STD testing, care and prevention services are needed for men diagnosed with syphilis.”
Since the late 1990s numerous outbreaks of syphilis have been recorded amongst gay men in industrialised countries. There are concerns that these outbreaks could have implications for the spread of HIV amongst gay men. This is because syphilis infection can be a marker of risky sexual behaviour and because syphilis can facilitate the transmission and acquisition of HIV. High HIV incidence amongst gay men with syphilis in the US
Aidsmap, UK
'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Turns 15
It was 15 years ago, Tuesday, that President Clinton rolled out the policy that came to be known as "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," which relaxed the long-standing bar against gay men and women serving in the U.S. military. While the move was initially hailed as progress for the rights of gays in the military, today many see it as a liability. 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Turns 15
TIME
Florida Primary Battleground Over Anti-Gay Marriage Amendment
Florida Primary Battleground Over Anti-Gay Marriage Amendment
365Gay.com - The groups include the Human Rights Campaign, Safeguarding American Values for Everyone, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, the Florida Young Democrats and the Florida Council of Log Cabin Republicans.
Panel debates HIV social marketing ads
Panel debates HIV social marketing ads
In 2006, the San Francisco health department launched an ad campaign encouraging gay men to disclose their HIV status. (read more)
Tax preparers predict headaches for DPs in CA
Tax preparers
predict headaches for DPs
For the first time, California is requiring same-sex couples who registered their domestic partnership with the state to jointly file their state income taxes.
January 28, 2008
Faker Nathan Hudson is Gay
Lead singer of band Faker Nathan Hudson told the Sunday Magazine he is gay and that he hopes his admission will make young gay teens feel comfortable with their sexuality.
“My association with being gay was that it was bad and dark and not good for you. I had trouble finding people to look up to,” he said.
“I’m happy to talk about being gay for that kid in the suburbs who’s 15 and scared.”
Faker Nathan Hudson is Gay
GenerationQ, Australia
Margaret Cho is "Beautiful" and So Are Her Gay Fans
Margaret Cho has been breaking down the myths and stereotypes of society for years. After last year's successful Off Broadway run of her burlesque style show The Sensuous Woman, Margaret has come home to her stand-up roots.
Her new stand-up tour, Beautiful, debuted February 27th in Sydney Australia, marking the first time Ms. Cho has premiered a show abroad. But before heading out for Down Under, Cho talked with us about gay men’s body image issues, why she’ll vote for Barack Obama and her upcoming role on Sordid Lives.
AfterElton: For the first time ever you’re starting your tour abroad in Australia. Is that because Australia is so gay? See Margaret Cho is “Beautiful” and So Are Her Gay Fans
Gay Journalist Appointed to Head Arizona Republic
Randy Lovely has become the only openly gay editor of a major U.S. newspaper after his promotion as vice president of news of The A rizona Republic, according to Editor and Publisher.
Lovely, 43, is a 16-year employee at Gannett, which owns the newspaper. He joined the Republic in 2002 as managing editor and was then promoted to executive editor in 2005. Lovely previously worked at The [Fort Myers, Fla.] News-Press; The Times in Shreveport, La.; and the Desert Sun in Palm Springs, Calif.
Gay Journalist Appointed to Head Arizona Republic
Advocate.com, CA
Gay Marriage: Long Term Fight
Gay rights advocates in Washington have a bold goal: legalize same-sex marriage within a decade. But behind-the-scenes, there's a debate over how to achieve that goal. The current strategy is to take incremental steps each year. But some in the gay community would like to see a more direct approach. Meanwhile, one vocal opponent of gay marriage wants to mobilize now. KPLU's Austin Jenkins reports. Gay Marriage: Long Term Fight
KPLU, WA
Gay chief executives come out winners
Alba Martinez, chief executive officer of the United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania, didn't know her father was gay until he contracted AIDS and died when she was 21.
To the world, Antonio Martinez, an administrator at the University of Puerto Rico, was a heterosexual family man. Only when his disease was diagnosed, in 1986, did he reveal his secret life. Six months later, he was dead at 55.
The traumatic event "reaffirmed my belief in being true to yourself," says Alba Martinez, 45. "I felt really sad that my father had to lead a double life. Nobody should have to go through life hiding who they are."
In the buttoned-down business corridors of Philadelphia and other large cities, an increasing number of gay CEOs are not hiding anymore. Some, like Martinez and Sean Buffington, new president of the University of the Arts, have been open about their sexual orientation for their entire professional lives.
They are in the minority. Coming out is serious business in business. Especially for a CEO.
Gay chief executives come out winners
Philadelphia Inquirer, PA
Here Comes a Real Gay Game
Looking for a little gay representation in your next video game outing? Forget about the titles that have hogged the headlines recently—including Mass Effect and its “blink and you’ll miss them” girl-on-girl sex scenes. Gay gamers looking for a more in-your-face experience should track down the little known Internet offering, Queer Power: Welcome to Queerland, released way back in 2004. More of Here Comes a Real Gay Game
SIRIUS Satellite Radio Hosts Gay Presidential Caucus
SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ:SIRI) announced today it will hold its first ever Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender presidential caucus on January 31, 2008 from 3:00 - 5:00 pm ET on The Michelangelo Signorile Show on SIRIUS OutQ, the nation's only 24/7 LGBT radio channel. Representatives and supporters for Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards will share their candidates' platforms and views, take questions from callers, and engage in an open dialogue with SIRIUS' national audience.
Signorile's show -- spanning politics, media, and popular culture and how it affects the LGBT community -- is further representation of SIRIUS' broad, diversified commitment to covering the 2008 presidential campaign. The Michelangelo Signorile Show airs Monday - Friday from 2:00 - 6:00 pm ET on SIRIUS OutQ channel 109. The show features newsmakers, community leaders, and highlights the many voices of the LGBT community. In addition to The Michelangelo Signorile Show, SIRIUS offers multiple dedicated political talk and news channels.
For the LGBT Caucus, Hilary Rosen will support Senator Clinton. She is the President of OurChart.com, an active public speaker, and a regular on-air political and business commentator on national television. She is the former Chairman and chief executive officer of the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Stampp Corbin will represent Senator Obama. Corbin is the National LGBT Liaison for the Obama campaign, and Co-Chair of the National LGBT Leadership Team, Obama for America '08. He served on The Board of Directors of the Human Rights Campaign from 1996-2003, and served as HRC Finance Committee Co-Chair from 1998 to 2003. He is also a successful high-tech entrepreneur. Eric Stern will represent Senator Edwards. He is a Political Advisor to the John Edwards for President Campaign. Stern is an attorney, educator, and social activist who worked for more than a decade on numerous Democratic campaigns and in the movement for social justice and equality. In the 2004 election cycle, Stern served as the Director of LGBT Outreach at the Democratic National Committee where he developed a voter mobilization plan that helped to turnout more than 3.5 million LGBT votes for Democratic candidates nationally.
About SIRIUS
SIRIUS, "The Best Radio on Radio," delivers more than 130 channels of the best programming in all of radio. SIRIUS is the original and only home of 100% commercial free music channels in satellite radio, offering 69 music channels. SIRIUS also delivers 65 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic, weather and data. SIRIUS is the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, NASCAR and NBA, and broadcasts live play-by-play games of the NFL and NBA, as well as live NASCAR races. All SIRIUS programming is available for a monthly subscription fee of only $12.95.
Anti-gay slurs hurled in Italian Parliament
A member of Italy’s Parliament was spat upon and called a “faggot,” a “fairy” and a “traitor” after he broke ranks with his small Catholic-oriented party and announced he would vote to defend Italian Premier Romano Prodi against a resolution aimed at bringing down his center-left government. Anti-gay slurs hurled in Italian Parliament
Senator called ‘faggot’ in debate
Fox host apologises for mocking Ledger death
Fox news radio host John Gibson has issued an apology for mocking comments made about the death of young actor Heath Ledger during his show.
Initially Gibson had refused to apologise, but relented after continued calls for him to be fired.
Shortly after Ledger's death, Gibson played an audio clip from Brokeback Mountain of Jake Gyllenhaal's character, Jack.
click here for the full article
Resistant Bacteria, Football Players and Gay Men
Recent media reports about a new strain of resistant bacteria among men in San Francisco angered national gay rights groups concerned that the reports would create hysteria and a backlash against gay men. The university researchers who first announced the problem even issued an apology, saying their press release about the original study “contained some information that could be interpreted as misleading.”
Now, the online magazine Salon.com has weighed in on the controversy. In a humorous essay, the magazine makes a serious point — it’s not just gay men who are at risk for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, a potentially fatal bacterial infection that killed two schoolchildren last fall.
The article starts by quoting a 2005 study in The New England Journal of Medicine. According to the medical journal, MRSA affects men who had “frequent contact” with others and “often did not shower before using communal whirlpools.” The article blames factors such as “compromised skin” and “close skin-to-skin contact.'’
But then Salon delivers the punchline.
When it comes to spreading the bacteria, it is not homosexuals we have to worry about….The medical researchers were not studying gays, they were studying the St. Louis Rams. That is correct: football players; in particular, linebackers.
The article goes on to quote the New England Journal report.
In our investigation, infection occurred only among linemen and linebackers, and not among those in backfield positions, probably because of the frequent contact among linemen during practice and games….All MRSA skin abscesses developed at sites of turf burns.
The magazine points out that “all football people are not that clean.'’ The New England Journal researchers “observed a lack of regular access to hand hygiene for trainers who provided wound care; skipping of showers by players before the use of communal whirlpools; and sharing of towels — all factors that might facilitate the transmission of infection in this setting.”
While it is true that clusters of MRSA have been identified among men who have sex with men, it has also been found in areas where people share close quarters, such as military barracks and prisons. Athletes also are at risk. In 1998, The Archives of Internal Medicine published a report on MRSA among high school wrestlers. Last fall, The Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine published a report calling MRSA “the latest sports epidemic.” According to that report: @ Resistant Bacteria, Football Players and Gay Men
New York Times, United States -
Fatal stabbing shakes city's gays
Tall and reed thin, Mark Snyder speaks in a soft, delicate voice and uses mannerisms he describes as effeminate. Snyder said he always felt comfortable being himself and walking hand in hand with his boyfriend around Boston, a city he described as much more tolerant of gays and lesbians than his hometown in rural Pennsylvania.
But the stabbing death of his friend, 20-year-old Daniel Yakovleff, a gay hairstylist from Roxbury, has caused Snyder to question how safe he is. Police say Yakovleff's Jan. 17 death is under investigation, and they have released no information about motive or suspects. But his death has sent a chill through the city's gay community. Fatal stabbing shakes city's gays
Boston Globe, United States -
Indiana one step closer to gay marriage ban
A same sex-marriage ban is moving forward with Indiana lawmakers.
State legislators advanced a resolution to begin amending the state constitution to ban gay marriage.
People are reacting with strong opinions on both sides.
A state senate committee has approved legislation to amend Indiana's constitution to ban same-sex marriage, although the legislative effort appears to be dead this year.
On a party line vote, the senate judiciary committee advanced a resolution to begin the process of amending the state constitution to ban gay marriage .
Indiana one step closer to gay marriage ban
WFIE-TV, IN
Group has little time to get needed petitions for ban on gay marriage
Supporters of the proposed constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage in Florida say they're receiving a huge rush of petitions as the deadline approaches to get the measure on the November ballot. Florida4Marriage needs to gather another 27,000 petitions at the last minute to be able to submit them to elections supervisors.
It's a last-minute scramble. The group thought it already had the necessary 611,000 signatures for the measure. But two weeks ago, the group discovered that a miscount by Miami-Dade election officials left the measure short. Florida4Marriage spokesman Nathan Dunn says that error won't sink their effort. Group has little time to get needed petitions for ban on gay marriage
WWSB ABC 7, FL
Pair helm beacon of gay pride
Dripping from the otherwise ordinary office walls, from clippings of the publication itself, is a resounding pride at Between the Lines, a magazine for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
The weekly publication on gay issues and life in metro Detroit and beyond celebrates 15 years in existence this April.
The anniversary will be marked with an exhibit at the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's annual Creating Change conference next month in Detroit.
Susan Horowitz and Jan Stevenson, a couple who live together in Farmington Hills, are the weekly's co-owners and publishers.
Between the Lines is the oldest publication of its kind in Michigan, the pair say.
"I feel really proud," Horowitz says about reaching the 15-year milestone.
"There's been no gay publication in Michigan that's lasted more than three years," adds Stevenson. "There's been a lot of stutter starts, though."
See Pair helm beacon of gay pride
Detroit Free Press, United States
Vt. Lawmaker Does Double Duty As Comic
MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) — How many politicians does it take to draw a laugh?
At least one in Vermont, where state Rep. Jason Lorber does standup gigs, produces comedy shows and runs improv workshops when he's not making laws.
"When I first came here, people said `You're the first comedian to come to the Statehouse.' I say `I'm the first PROFESSIONAL comedian to come to the Statehouse,'" he said.
He says legislating and performing are both passions for him.
"Politics is about changing society and trying to make the world a better place. And performing makes me feel so alive. I love the creative aspect of it," he said.
Lorber grew up in California, making him a "flatlander" or non-native to Vermonters. That gives him an outsider's view on things New Englanders take for granted, like coping with winters:
"I have a regimen for keeping warm: I get up, I put on a tank top, T-shirt, flannel shirt, sweater, jacket and scarf. Then if it dips below 50, I put on more clothes." See Vt. Lawmaker Does Double Duty As Comic
The Associated Press
Legislature to consider bill that would allow gay adoptions
SALT LAKE CITY - The Legislature will consider whether to remove a ban on adoption by couples living together but not married, including gay couples. The ban, instituted in 2000, is being challenged by Rep. Rebecca Chavez-Houck, who says it's becoming increasingly hard to match children with the traditional mother & father family. The bill will likely face an uphill battle in a state where voters have approved a state constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage and other domestic unions. Legislature to consider bill that would allow gay adoptions
LocalNews8.com, ID
January 27, 2008
Maryland Gay Marriage Bills Have Almost 50 Sponsors
Forty-nine lawmakers have signed on to bills allowing gay marriage in Maryland. Sponsors of the bills introduced in the House and Senate said they have seen more support for the idea than ever before. Gay Marriage Bills Proposed With Almost 50 Sponsors
NBC 4.com, DC
Stunning model has sex change
With her long blonde hair and green eyes Katherine Dalton had a body most women would die for. She worked as a top model and starred in pop videos. Yet Katherine has now spent £30,000 on a sex-change operation after feeling trapped for years as a gay man in a woman's body. And in another amazing twist the ex-model, now known as Adrian, is dressing again as a woman at night - as she launches a new career as a drag act.
"People looked at me as if I was nuts when I told them I was a gay man trapped in a woman's body, but I couldn't be happier since the operation," says Adrian, 30. Stunning model has sex change
Sunday Mirror, UK
Gibson parted ways with Ledger over 'Brokeback Mountain' gay role
Mel Gibson may have called Heath Ledger’s death a “tragic loss,” but the actor/director is said to have distanced himself from the late actor.
Private investigator Paul Barresi has revealed that Gibson had stated neglecting Ledger after the he ignored his advice about not to play a gay cowboy in Brokeback Mountain. See Gibson parted ways with Ledger over ‘Brokeback Mountain’ gay role
Thaindian.com, Thailand -
Just one in 100 tells researchers: I'm gay
Only one in 100 Britons would describe themselves as gay, according to the first government research into the nation's sexuality.
A further one in 100 would call themselves bisexual - but both groups are outnumbered by those who say they are unwilling to discuss their private life with Whitehall researchers.
In the survey, some people failed to understand the question and gave answers including "female", "normal", "not active" and "I am OK with my sexuality". But Some interviewers declined to ask the question for fear of giving offence. Just one in 100 tells researchers: I'm gay
Telegraph.co.uk, United Kingdom -
Hundreds protest against Sydney gay-bashings
Several hundred people have attended a rally in inner Sydney to express their concern about violent attacks on the gay and lesbian community. Hundreds protest against Sydney gay-bashings
ABC Online, Australia
Petition for the lives of Hamzeh and Loghman: two young gay men who are in love and who risk the death sentence in Iran.
Petition for the lives of Hamzeh and Loghman: two young gay men who are in love and who risk the death sentence in Iran. And let's not forget Pegah: the United Kingdom could still hand her over to the executioner.
Sign it at http://www.petitiononline.com/irangay/petition.html and spread it as more as possible
To: UN High Commissioner for Human Rights; UN High Commissioner for Refugees; UN General Secretary; International Federation of Iranian Refugee; President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Mahmoud Ahmadinejad; Minister of Justice of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ayatollah Mahmoud Hashemi Shahroudi; UK Governement; UK Home Office Secretary; National Coalition of Anti-Deportation Campaigns (NCADC); President of the European Parliament; President of the European Commission; British Embassy in Italy; Iranian Embassy in Italy; Iranian Embassy in UK; Radical Trans-national Party
Petition for the lives of Hamzeh and Loghman: two young gay men who are in love and who risk the death sentence in Iran. And let's not forget Pegah: the United Kingdom could still hand her over to the executioner.
by EveryOne Group (http://www.everyonegroup.com)
The Islamic Republic of Iran is persecuting homosexuals, dissidents and free thinkers, and carrying out political crimes towards them.
Homosexual relationships in Iran are considered a crime liable to sadistic corporal punishment and the death sentence. On January 23rd, 2008, Hamzeh Chavi and Loghman Hamzehpour, two homosexual young men of 18 and 19, were arrested in Sardasht, in Iranian Azerbaijan. The authorities use physical and psychological torture to obtain confessions from people who fall into their hands, and the two young men admitted to being in love and having a relationship. Their confession was enough for the Islamic court to commit them to trial with two very serious charges: Mohareb, the crime of those who are "enemies of Allah" and Lavat, sodomy. Iranian criminal law envisages the gallows for homosexuals, who are considered "enemies of Allah".
Nevertheless, there are many moderate political and religious figures in Iran who would like to change things and prevent the loss of so many innocent lives. The majority of Iranians are against the horrors of capital punishment through hanging and stoning; only a few extremists believe torture and flogging are admissible methods. The clandestine human rights movements are fighting heroically against these barbaric practices, risking their own lives in an effort to build a better Iran, a country in which minorities are respected and human life becomes a value once more. Thousands of Muslims believe Allah is a God of love, that the death sentences and brutal corporal punishment are crimes against humanity. On December 5th, 2007 an innocent Iranian boy was martyred by the Teheran regime and then murdered on the scaffold. From all over the world, in answer to the campaign for the life of Makwan Moloudzadeh - promoted by EveryOne Group - thousands of Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists and non-believers sent red and white flowers to President Ahmadinejad and the Iranian judges: red, in an attempt to avoid the spilling of innocent blood; white to implore his executioners to spare the life of yet another blameless condemned man. This vast international campaign served only to delay an execution which had already been decided.
Today Makwan is the symbol of the martyrdom of the many innocent victims of a ruthless regime. Let us also remember Pegah Emambakhsh, the Iranian lesbian woman who is still waiting for the result of her appeal in the United Kingdom, and who risks being deported to Iran, where torture and stoning await her. EveryOne has received worrying news from the United Kingdom, where the Court of Appeal does not appear inclined to grant Pegah political asylum - in defiance of all the international conventions. Pegah is crushed by the attitude of the British Government and has told us she is tired of fighting, she is reluctant to appear in the newspapers and no longer believes in what Anne Frank defined as "man's inner goodness". We must respect Pegah's wishes, but we have to be ready to say no to the ritish Government, which has abandoned the path of respect for the rights of women, homosexuals and refugees. We have to be ready to raise a chorus of protest, throughout the world, in order to stop the hand of the executioner and his accomplices.
That is why we are asking you to devote a few minutes of your time to this petition; add your signature and send a protest to all the addresses listed below, because many human lives, the concept of justice itself and the value of human rights are at stake here.
For EveryOne Group:
Roberto Malini, Matteo Pegoraro, Dario Picciau, Ahmad Rafat, Arsham Parsi, Laura Todisco, Glenys Robinson, Steed Gamero, Fabio Patronelli, Francesca Turuani, Alessandro Matta, Cristos Papaioannou, Paul Albrecht.
Hockey Game Pits Hot Gay Team vs. Straight Team
It may sound like the beginning of a cheesy gay porn, or may just be what dreams are made of for most gay men, but a hockey game between an all gay team and an all straight team was reality in Aspen last weekend. The Friendship Cup is only five years old, yet the word of its existence is spreading as the sports world becomes more and more tolerant of gay athletes. See Hockey Game Pits Hot Gay Team vs. Straight Team
Lawmakers want to study gay rights measure
Lawmakers said they have more questions about a bill that would make it unlawful for employers to discriminate against gays and lesbians and decided not to vote HB89 on Friday at a House committee meeting.
Bill sponsor Rep. Christine Johnson, D-Salt Lake City, said she's content with the open dialogue so far and hopes to ease lawmakers' concerns by answering their questions.
"This bill is not about morality," she told the committee. Lawmakers want to study gay rights measure
Salt Lake Tribune, United States
Rapidly changing Spain takes fast-track divorce, same-sex marriage ...
A generation ago, traditional families were sacred in Spain. Gen. Francisco Franco liked them big and Catholic, and gave hefty cash prizes to parents with the most copious broods.
These days a civics course in Spain's public schools teaches that modern families can be quite different single parents with kids, or same-sex couples raising adopted children.
This and a host of other social reforms have given traditionally Catholic Spain a striking new look, and while the clergy is fighting it, the general public seems to be taking the change in stride. As Spain heads into a general election March 9, gay rights are low on the priorities list.
Instead, alongside worries about renewed Basque separatist violence, the economy is the issue _ inflation above 4 percent, skyrocketing interest rates on mortgages, and a general sense that one of Europe's top-tier economies is cooling.
This may explain why the conservative Popular Party, unseated in 2004, is running neck-and-neck with the ruling Socialists in opinion polls.
The area in which Socialist Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero decisively outpolls his Popular Party challenger, Mariano Rajoy, is social reform, and Zapatero capitalizes on it.
When he called the vote in mid-January, he looked back on his four years in power and said he had delivered on a pledge of socially sensitive governance. «I kept my word,» Zapatero said.
Spain is one of the few countries that grant full legal status to same-sex couples, including adoption rights. Zapatero also engineered a law granting financial aid to families caring for handicapped or elderly relatives, amnestied 600,000 undocumented aliens, and created special courts to prosecute spousal violence.
Half the members of Zapatero's Cabinet, and half the Socialist candidates running for legislative seats, are women.
All this is in stunning contrast to the Spain forged under Franco's dictatorship, and is seen by political scientist Ramon Cotarelo as a reaction to having spent nearly four decades as the continent's repressed, backward cousin.
«Spaniards like to come across as progressive. They think that this way they remedy the inferiority complex they have with respect to the rest of Europe,» said Cotarelo, who teaches at Complutense University in Madrid.
An Instituto Opina poll published the day after the gay marriage law passed in 2005 showed 62 percent in favor and 30 percent against.
Only a few thousand gay couples in this nation of 45 million have married, and Cotarelo said the change has probably not angered many moderate conservatives, a key consideration in a race where centrist votes are crucial.
The Roman Catholic church, however, is furious.
At a church-convened rally Dec. 30 in Madrid to plug traditional family values, bishop after bishop stood up to denounce Zapatero. A crowd estimated to number at least 150,000 roared in approval when Pope Benedict XVI appeared live on giant TV screens from Rome and said marriage is the unbreakable union of man and woman.
The archbishop of Valencia, Cardinal Agustin Garcia-Gasco, said gay marriage and streamlined procedures for divorce were undermining Spain's families and social fabric.
«Along this path we are headed toward the dissolution of democracy,» he warned the crowd.
Zapatero hit back by accusing the church of trying to impose its view on a people he described as perfectly comfortable with gay marriage.
«Whatever some cardinal may say, the family, understood in a broad sense, is in very good health,» Zapatero told a campaign rally.
Under Franco, the church was powerful and close to the government. Franco's death in 1975 cost the clergy a source of support, and these days only a small proportion of the 80 percent of Spaniards who call themselves Catholic attend church regularly.
Meanwhile, the democratic society that has gradually involved since Franco died in 1975 shows striking tolerance of homosexuality. For instance, in a media campaign last year to fight AIDS by encouraging gay men to use condoms, one of the participants was Fernando Grande-Marlaska, a prominent judge at Spain's main terrorism court, who is openly gay.
Daughter of lesbian moms shares her story of frustration over adoption hearing
Jessica Cohn-Kleinberg (pictured) is a senior at a Miami high school. She's spent the past three years working for Safe Schools South Florida and other groups - speaking to counselors, teachers and students about life with gay parents.
Jessica attended a meeting of the Senate Committee on Children, Families and Elder Affairs, which held a public hearing in Miami to discuss foster care and adoption issues. She shares her experience in a piece for Express Gay News.
She explains the meeting's disappointing agenda: @ Daughter of lesbian moms shares her story of frustration over ...
Proud Parenting -
Countdown to Valentine's Day: A New Take on Dating
You have three weeks until, Valentine's Day. Don't have a partner just now? Gay male relationship expert Patrick Perrine gives these sure fire tips for meeting new people:
"Try a new perspective," says Perrine. "From meeting new people to asking for a date; think outside the candy box,"
1) Attend Events - Attend a meeting of at least 3 organizations, ones that interest you and have plenty of gay men.
2) Don't Move Too Fast - You're there to find a serious relationship. Those don't happen from casual encounters of the close kind. True love is first a meeting of minds; the bodies connect later."
3) Dress For Success - You'll feel more comfortable if your hair is neat, clothes flattering, nails manicured, and your hands warm. Pick a shirt color close to your eye color. Your sincerity is more likely to be believed.
4) Pretend you're famous. Work the room like you're Bill Clinton campaigning in 1990-or a laid-back actor (Rupert Everette in My Best Friend's Wedding.) Pretend to be someone you admire. How would he break the ice? How does he draw other people out?
5) Say Hello and Shut Up - Think you can't make small talk? Sure you can! When you've spotted your Dream Valentine across the room, and the longer-than- usual eye contact is accompanied by even a smile; go for it. Walk over and introduce yourself. Say "Hello, I'm [name]. This is my first event of [name the organization]; have you been a member for long?" You want to get the other person talking. Remember the quote, "A bore is someone who keeps talking after I have something to say."
6) Be a Good Listener - Keep eye contact most or all of the time. Remember details about his interests and pick up on one of these details to share your own interests. Then turn the conversation back to the other person.
"Follow these steps," says Perrine, "and you're on your way to a year- round Valentine's Day."
About myPartner.com
myPartner caters to sophisticated, cultured and relationship-oriented gay men. The service combines online introductions and private matchmaking services for gay men. MyPartner was founded by Patrick Perrine who has a B.A. in a Psychology, an M.A. in Human Sexuality Studies and has conducted internationally recognized research on Human Mating Preferences.
January 26, 2008
Anti-gay church plans to picket star's funeral
Anti-gay church plans to picket star's funeral
Jewish Telegraphic Agency, NY - Reports that a homophobic church plans to picket the funeral of actor Heath Ledger is drawing criticism from a Jewish group. Westboro Baptist Church, in Topeka, Kansas, insists that Ledger, the 28-year-old movie star who was found dead in his New York ...
Anti-Gay Church to Protest Ledger Funeral ABC News
More Tirades In New Interview By The Anti-Gay Church Group AHN
Anti-Gay Church Discuss Protesting Ledger’s Funeral TheCelebrityCafe.com
Campaign Frustrates Some Gay Activists
Few constituencies are as eager for the Republican Party to falter this political season as gay-rights activists. Yet as they observe the Democratic presidential campaign and the rest of the electoral landscape, their high hopes often are mixed with frustration.
Even as they expect to support whichever Democrat gets the presidential nomination, many activists are disappointed that the three leading contenders rarely mention gay-rights topics unless responding to a question.
``They don't want to broach civil unions, marriage, equalizing benefits for same-sex couples,'' said Jennifer Chrisler, head of the Family Equality Council, which supports gay and lesbian families. ``The vast majority of politicians don't lead, they follow.''
There are other frustrations as well. Activists were dismayed that the Democratic-led Congress failed to approve two much-anticipated bills late last year - one defining anti-gay assaults as a federal hate crime, the other prohibiting anti-gay job discrimination.
And at a time when they hoped to be making advances, gays and lesbians are on the defensive in at least two states - facing a likely ballot item in Florida that would ban same-sex marriage and a measure in Arkansas aimed at banning them from adopting children or serving as foster parents.
Campaign Frustrates Some Gay Activists
Guardian Unlimited, UK
Gay and playful sci-fi fun
Homophobes who doth protest gay bliss too much should steer clear of "Torchwood" and its main hero, Capt. Jack, who will sex up men, women or alien life forms.
To paraphrase the techno rapper Peaches, he likes girls and he likes boys, he doesn't have to make the choice.
Gay and playful sci-fi fun
Chicago Sun-Times, United States
Q: How much information is appropriate to give young children (6-8 years) about gay families?
Q: How much information is appropriate to give young children (6-8 years) about gay families?
Evidently, my daughter has a gay family in her classroom, and I want her to understand and be tolerant. She asked specifically how a mommy gets a baby with no daddy.
A: You need only tell your child that families come in many forms. Most families have a mom and a dad; some only one dad or one mom; and some, two moms or two dads. Include the fact that sometimes grandparents raise grandchildren. There are foster families and parents who adopt children and some couples and adults who have no children but help raise their nephews and nieces.
Do you know how this gay couple acquired their child? Did they adopt? Did one of the moms receive artificial insemination? If a family had two dads, you might need to explain about a surrogate mother. If you know the particulars, you can explain as simply as possible about adoption, artificial insemination or a surrogate mother. Your child will not understand every word and more questions may follow but most important is to respond.
Your answer may lead to another question. You may need to explain that for a fetus to develop in a woman's womb, it takes a sperm from a male, but the sperm can find its way there in a number of ways. As you offer your explanation, you'll sift it through your own personal values. That's why it's important to respond.
If you sidestep the question, your child will get the message that you're uncomfortable and will protect you from further embarrassment by asking someone else. Who will she turn to? A peer? The Internet? A teacher? A Scout leader? A book? Your child will receive bits and pieces of information from any and all of these sources, eventually coming up with her own explanation, but wouldn't you like your child to hear an explanation from you first?
Even if you can't come up with the perfect response, say something. You can always come back to this topic, adding or deleting information, as the days, weeks, months and years go by.
Furios Reaction to Gay Canadian Health Minister's Outcry
Furios Reaction to Gay Canadian Health Minister's Outcry
Angel City's Devil, CA - On Wednesday, Ontario's Health Minister labeled Health Canada's organ donation ban of gay men "offensive" and "insensitive". Today, the country's editorials fought back. The National Post scolded openly gay Health Minister, George Smitherman, wondering "who he really represents as Health Minister of Ontario." Though the obvious answer is that he supports all Canadians equally, the editorialist continues his tyrade, saying that "letting identity politics imperil the health of the public is really not what one expects from a health minister." Canada is on a list of a few, mostly non-Western nations who prohibit gays from organ donation.
Ontario's Gay Health Minister Blasted for Opposing Health Canada ... Lifesite
Smitherman blasts gay organ donor policy Globe and Mail
Gay minister criticises Canada's organ donation ban PinkNews.co.uk
Gay pastor shares his parenting experiences
Brett Webb-Mitchell’s children often are met with an “Oh-h-h,” when they tell people who their father is.
“People say, ‘Oh-h-h, the gay man,’” Webb-Mitchell said. “My son isn’t just Parker, he’s Parker, whose father is gay.”
Gay parents face most of the same issues as straight parents, said Webb-Mitchell, an ordained Presbyterian minister, but the “oh-h-h” factor can make things harder on a child.
Webb-Mitchell’s new book, “On Being a Gay Parent: Making a Future Together,” is published by Church Publishing and deals with parenting issues and with religion.
He will be at Malaprop’s Bookstore at 7 p.m. Monday to read from his book and sign copies.
“I wrote the book because there was nothing out there that was pro-gay, pro-child, pro-family and pro-Christian,” he said. “The books that dealt with gay parenting and Christianity were not very pro-Christian. If anything, they steered people toward the United Church of Christ and away from Catholic and Evangelical churches.”
The United Church of Christ is the only mainstream Protestant denomination that has come out in favor of same-sex marriage.
Webb-Mitchell came out as a gay man 12 years ago, when Parker was 4 and his daughter, Adrianne, was 10.
And even though he no longer was married to his children’s mother, he was still their parent. He did his best to help them understand that being gay is just another way of being.
“We watched ‘In & Out’ and ‘Will and Grace’ and parts of ‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,’” he said. “I wanted them to see that being gay is how some people are.”
He had struggled with his sexuality all his life.
“It was Psalm 139 that finally convinced me to be who I am,” he said. “You are constructed by God; you are wonderfully made. … I am who God made me.”
Webb-Mitchell has taught at Duke Divinity School in Durham, but his current spiritual venture is called School of the Pilgrim, an organization that encourages people to go on pilgrimages to learn more about themselves and their faith.
“On pilgrimage, the veneer of life is ripped off,” he said. “Pilgrimage is about understanding the journey — embracing the authenticity.”
Gay pastor shares his parenting experiences
Asheville Citizen-Times, NC
January 25, 2008
Presidential race, anti-gay petition collide inFlroida
The next ballot contest for candidates in the hotly contested race for the Democratic presidential nomination is Saturday, Jan. 26, when Democrats face off in South Carolina. That vote will be followed by a Republican primary in Florida on Jan. 29 and caucuses in Maine on Feb. 3. Presidential race, anti-gay petition collide
Dallas Voice, TX -
GAY ACTIVISTS BLAST RADIO HOST WHO MOCKED LEDGER'S DEATH
A U.S. radio host who mocked HEATH LEDGER's death live on air a few hours after his passing has been slammed by gay activists.
During his Tuesday (22Jan08) show, Fox News Radio presenter Jon Gibson played an audio clip from gay cowboy movie Brokeback Mountain in which Jake Gyllenhaal's character says to Ledger's, "I wish I knew how to quit you." Gibson then told his listeners, "Well, he found out how to quit you." Later in the broadcast, Gibson played another Brokeback Mountain clip, this time of Ledger's character saying, "We're dead." The host then mockingly repeated, "We're dead," before playing the clip again.
Gibson, who is on record as criticising Brokeback Mountain as a "gay agenda movie", went on to label Ledger a "weirdo" who had "a serious drug problem" and speculated as to reasons why the actor may have taken his own life.
Ledger, who was found dead in his New York apartment on Tuesday (22Jan08), is not thought to have committed suicide, according to authorities and his family.
Rashad Robinson, a spokesman for The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), says, "Gibson's remarks are vulgar and disgusting. It's sickening that Gibson would exploit Heath Ledger's tragic death to promote such hurtful intolerance.
"And to do so at a time when family and friends are grieving shows a level of insensitivity that is beyond the pale.'' On his Wednesday (23Jan08) show, Gibson refused to apologise for his comments, explaining they were just "a little Brokeback Mountain joke" and there is "no point in passing up a good joke".
ABC Takes a Bow for Gay-Affirming Television Programming
For the second straight year, ABC received the most nominations for gay-affirming TV programming. The network landed nine nominations from the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), while CBS garnered three nods, NBC two and Fox two, The Associated Press reported.
ABC's nominated shows include Brothers & Sisters, Ugly Betty and Desperate Housewives.
Oprah Winfrey and Tyra Banks dominated the Outstanding Talk Show Episode category. For Newspaper Overall Coverage, nominees were: The Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, The Seattle Times and the San Francisco Chronicle.
Let’s hear it for ABC!
How to achieve workplace equality
Earlier this month gay equality organisation Stonewall published its 2008 Workplace Equality Index, showcasing Britain's top 100 employers for gay people. The top 100 were ranked according to criteria ranging from implementation of effective equality policies to practical demonstration of good practice in recruitment, how they engage with lesbian and gay staff, customers and service users. How to achieve workplace equality
PinkNews.co.uk, UK
January 24, 2008
Gay Community Still Wary Of Obama
Sen. Barack Obama didn’t have to issue the challenge about homophobia in the African-American community - not in one of the nation’s premier black churches, not on the eve of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday - but he did it anyway.
“If we are honest with ourselves, we’ll acknowledge that our own community has not always been true to King’s vision of a beloved community,” Obama told 2,000 worshippers Sunday at Atlanta’s Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King once preached. “We have scorned our gay brothers and sisters instead of embracing them.”
The statement drew polite applause from the congregation, but it roared across the gay blogosphere, earning almost universal praise from a constituency that doesn’t always feel supported by presidential candidates.
Yet the goodwill - at least among some in the gay community - evaporated quickly.
At the same time as Obama’s Sunday speech, gay bloggers were digging into the background of the Rev. Kirbyjon Caldwell, a spiritual adviser to President Bush who endorsed Obama a day earlier. They turned up a page on his Houston church Web site promoting a ministry to cure homosexuals, sparking outrage among the same bloggers who were extolling him only a few hours earlier.
The twin developments appeared to encapsulate the tension inherent in Obama’s embrace of what he calls a new style of politics, his belief in forging alliances even with those who hold fundamentally different views. More of Gay Community Still Wary Of Obama
CBS News, NY
Domestic partnership bill passed by New MExico House
A domestic partnership bill passed Tuesday by the House is a positive step, according to the leader of a Clovis church that openly accepts gay people.
The bill would allow gay and heterosexual couples to form domestic partnerships and enjoy the same rights and benefits as married couples.
“It will be a good thing for domestic partners to be given the right to use what we pay taxes for,” said Deacon Ellen Pleasant, who is serving as acting pastor and worship team coordinator of the Llano Estacado Metropolitan Community Church.
Pleasant, who has lived with her partner for 29 years, said the bill will give domestic partners rights such as to make medical decisions and to share in medical benefits. Domestic partnership bill passed by House
Portales News-Tribune, NM
Senate committee approves amendment banning same-sex marriage
NDIANAPOLIS - The effort to amend Indiana's constitution to ban same-sex marriage appears dead this year, but that didn't stop a Senate committee from approving the legislation Thursday.
The Senate Judiciary Committee, on a 5-4 party line vote, advanced a resolution to begin the process of amending the state constitution to ban gay marriage. Even if the resolution clears the full Republican-led Senate, it is expected to die in the Democrat-controlled House, where a key committee chairman has said he won't give the issue a hearing.
Sen. Brandt Hershman, the resolution's sponsor, said he had hoped that the House would want to debate the matter this year in light of recent court rulings in other states.
"Instead, they chose not to discuss the issue at all," said Hershman, R-Wheatfield. Senate committee approves amendment banning same-sex marriage
Munster Times - Munster,IN,USA
Court Condemns France over Gay Adoption
If social and political conservatives tend to be more cautious about Pan-European institutions than those on the Left, this week provided another example why. The European Court of Human Rights overturned French court rulings that prevented a single lesbian woman from adopting a child. The decision sets a precedent not just across the 27-nation European Union, but throughout the 47-member Council of Europe. Gay and lesbian groups say it opens the way for legal challenges in other European states with adoption laws similar to those of France — yet falls well short of a blanket ruling that would oblige all countries to allow adoption by homosexuals. Court Condemns France over Gay Adoption
TIME -
Md. Same-Sex Marriage Advocates Start Fresh In Push For Bill
Despite signals a gay-marriage bill is unlikely to succeed this year, advocates and some lawmakers plan to start work in the coming days to change the minds of lawmakers hesitant to take up the question.
Bills proposing to undo current Maryland law stating that marriage is only between a man and a woman were due for introduction Friday, and supporters of the plans say they're ramping up efforts to persuade lawmakers to consider them.
"We can't be afraid, because there's nothing to be afraid of," said Delegate Victor Ramirez, D-Prince George's, a sponsor of one of the bills. Md. Same-Sex Marriage Advocates Start Fresh In Push For Bill
NBC 4.com - Washington,DC,USA
Gay rights activists target lawmakers for ouster
A coalition of politically active gay rights groups gathered at a Rockville Centre synagogue last night to explain its strategy to oust state lawmakers they said have blocked legislation supporting same-sex marriage. Leaders of the Human Rights Campaign, a national gay rights organization, said they plan to focus on a few key Long Island races, but they declined to name the candidates involved. "The future of marriage equality could very well be decided on Long Island this November," said Marty Rouse, who grew up in Hauppauge and is now the organization's national field director. Gay rights activists target lawmakers for ouster
Newsday, NY
Mike Huckabee Amps Up The Theocratic Rhetoric
Mike Huckabee often mixes religion with politics. But the former Arkansas governor jumped the shark on the eve of the Michigan primary, when he told a crowd of cheering (and faithful) supporters that the Constitution needs a religious fix:
"I have opponents in this race," he said, "who do not want to change the Constitution. But I believe it's a lot easier to change the Constitution than it would be to change the word of the living God. And that's what we need to do--to amend the Constitution so it's in God's standards rather than try to change God's standards so it lines up with some contemporary view of how we treat each other and how we treat the family."
Huckabee's proposal to amend the Constitution in order to make it conform with the Bible didn't get all the attention it deserved. Perhaps because it was jumbled in with a mix of other coverage of the six major candidates. Perhaps because metastasized evangelical belief has become acceptable political discourse. Certainly because the media let him get away with it. No serious candidate for the American presidency had ever taken such an extreme position regarding the separation of church and state. Rev. Huckabee is proposing a policy that would render meaningless the "separation clause" in the First Amendment to the Constitution.
Huckabee is an ordained minister. He has preached sermons to Baptist congregations during the primary campaign. His position on abortion and homosexual marriage are rooted in Christian scripture. He has claimed that "God . . . created a government structure."
Huckabee is one of two Republican candidates still in the race who reject Darwin's theory of evolution. "It is a theory of evolution, that's why it's called the theory of evolution," he said on a PBS program in 2004 when he was governor of Arkansas--resorting to the canard that confuses the colloquial and scientific use of the word theory.
Now Huckabee becomes the first candidate since the Rev. Pat Robertson in 1988, and the first contending presidential candidate in the nation's history to openly and unapologetically run as a theocrat. Yet it's possible that there's a worldly method to his religious madness, a method informed by polling data and George W. Bush's unprecedented success uniting the evangelical vote.
Keep reading
Mike Huckabee Amps Up The Theocratic Rhetoric
Also Pro-Huckabee Push Polls Fly South To FL
Gay organization honors Israeli film
A film about a romance between Israeli and Palestinian men has been nominated for a prize by one of the most influential gay organizations in the US. 'The Bubble,' a drama based in Tel Aviv and directed by Israeli filmmaker Eytan Fox, has been named one of five contenders in the limited release film category at the 19th Annual Media Awards of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. The nomination marks the third time a film by Fox has been recognized by GLAAD, which will hand out its 2008 awards March 22 in New York. The prizes honor films, television series and works of print and TV journalism that promote "a truly inclusive society," GLAAD President Neil G. Giuliano said in a press statement released Monday. Gay organization honors Israeli film
Jerusalem Post, Israel
DNC lawsuit reveals black vs. gay rivalry
A gay man’s lawsuit against the Democratic National Committee has revealed allegations of bitter, behind-the-scenes disputes that appear to pit black DNC officials against gays. In a fiery e-mail exchange obtained this week by the Blade, a senior official with the gay partisan group National Stonewall Democrats denounces a top DNC staffer, Leah Daughtry, for allegedly inciting anti-gay prejudice. See DNC lawsuit reveals black vs. gay rivalry
Washington Blade, DC
One in four gay men in Capital is victim of attack
ONE in four gay men has been the victim of physical attack in Edinburgh during the last five years because of their sexuality, according to a new report published today.
The study also found that 15 per cent of gay men surveyed had been assaulted during the last year, but fewer than one in five reported the incidents to police.
One in four gay men in Capital is victim of attack
Edinburgh Evening News, UK
Russian Gay Activist Honoured at International Mr. Gay in Hollywood
Next year’s International Mr. Gay will have a contestant from Russia. That was the pledge given at the weekend by Nikolai Alexeyev in Los Angeles.
Mr Alexeyev, the lead organiser of Moscow Gay Pride, was in Los Angeles to receive the “Hero” award which was presented during the International Mr. Gay competition.
“This is not just my award, it is an award of all those who courageously fight for LGBT rights in Russia, risking to loose their jobs, to be dismissed from studies, to be harassed, beaten and even killed,” he said when accepting the award at the Music Box at the Henry Ford Theater.
“Despite all that, they continue to go on the streets of Moscow to fight for equality. They are the heroes who move this world forward.”
“For me to be in Los Angeles, in Hollywood, is dream come true. But to receive an award here is beyond explanations.”
The Moscow gay activist then promised that there would be a Russian participant next year.
Winner of this year’s competition was Mr. Gay Argentina, Carlos Fabian Maelius.
“I hope that we can one day come together in this world and fight a different cause and leave homophobia behind us,” he told the more than 500 attending the event.
In second place in the event, which was dominated by central and south America, was Mr. Gay Venezuela, Juan Bracho. Third place was taken by British policeman Mark Carter from Yorkshire.
“I’m very happy with the result. All 20 competitors were great ambassadors for their countries,” Mr. Carter told the Bradford Telegraph & Argus.
“I want to continue the work I started after winning Mr Gay UK by changing the public’s time-worn perception of the gay man.”
Contestants in the competition came from 19 different countries.
Gay Parade in Moscow planned for May
Gays rights activists plan to hold a march in central Moscow in May, their third attempt after previous parades were banned by the Moscow mayor, the event organizer said.
"We expect this to be a political and public event, without outrage, but with specific demands," Nikolai Alexeyev said, speaking on the Ekho Moskvy radio station.
Moscow authorities rejected official requests by Gay Parade organizers in 2006 and 2007 for permission to march, on the grounds that it would interfere with the rights and routines of ordinary Muscovites.
Mayor Yuri Luzhkov has branded gay pride parades "Satanic" and vowed that they would never be permitted in the capital, while the Russian Orthodox Church and various far-right groups have sworn to halt any attempt to hold a march in support of gay rights in Russia.
Alexeyev said: "If the march will be again illegally banned, we will apply to Russian and European courts."
Last year, Moscow's Tverskoi District Court ruled that a city ban on holding a Gay Pride Parade was legal. Around 100 protestors subsequently gathered outside City Hall to submit a petition to the mayor against what they called an 'unfounded and illegal prohibition on holding the march in support of sexual minorities in Russia.'
The protest turned violent when a British gay rights activist was kicked and beaten by extremists, and police detained 31 people, including two Italian members of the European parliament, in the ensuing melee.
Homosexuality was legalized in Russia in 2003, but discrimination against gays and lesbians remains widespread. The hostile crowd during the 2007 May demonstration included people carrying crosses and wearing Orthodox Church dress, along with ultranationalists.
Russia is a member of the Council of Europe, and a signatory to the European Convention of Human Rights, which obliges the state to allow demonstrations to be held.
Gay Parade in Moscow planned for May
RIA Novosti, Russia
Lambda Legal Applauds Decision Upholding Benefits for Same-Sex Partners of New Orleans City Employees
The Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans has granted Lambda Legal's motion for summary judgment, and ruled that the city of New Orleans was within its authority when it granted health benefits to domestic partners of city employees and established a domestic partner registry for city residents.
"This lawsuit needlessly jeopardized the health and well-being of city employees and their families by threatening to take away their health insurance," said Lambda Legal Senior Staff Attorney Brian Chase. "We're pleased the court dismissed the lawsuit and we are gratified that fairness prevailed in this case. Gay and lesbian employees of the City of New Orleans can breathe easier knowing that their domestic partners will remain covered by their health insurance as they rebuild this great city."
The city of New Orleans extended health insurance benefits to same-sex partners of city employees in 1997, and in 1999, the city council created a domestic partner registry that allows couples to make a public declaration to care for and support each other. Those policies came under attack in 2002 from the Alliance Defense Fund (ADF), on behalf of a group of city taxpayers claiming a right to challenge the laws. At the city's request, Lambda Legal joined the lawsuit, representing city employee Peter Sabi and his partner, Philip Centanni, Jr. Sabi and Centanni later left Louisiana, and city employee Brian Barbieri and his partner Howard Lees joined the lawsuit.
Chief District Court Judge Nadine Ramsey ruled on January 15 that the State Constitution does indeed grant the city of New Orleans the authority to offer benefits to the domestic partners of city employees and maintain a registry of domestic partners. She also ruled that extending health care benefits to the same-sex domestic partners of city employees does not violate state laws restricting marriage to one man and one woman. "The extension of health care benefits does not afford a legal status 'identical or substantially similar to that of marriage,' nor does it in any way trample on any purported public policy favoring marriage over unmarried cohabitation," Ramsey wrote in her judgment. "The City's decision to extend health care benefits to the domestic partners of city employees simply provides health insurance to a greater number of persons, without regard to marital status."
Lambda Legal Senior Staff Attorney F. Brian Chase is counsel in Ralph v. City of New Orleans. Michael Vincenzo of King, LeBlanc and Bland is co-counsel.
Euro Court Ruling on Gay Adoption “Unjustified and Unacceptable ...
The ruling by the European Court of Human Rights earlier this week that exclusion of gay men and women from the application process was discriminatory and therefore in conflict with the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms has been attacked by the First Party of Latvia and Latvia's Way (LPP/LC) parties.
The attack from Latvia comes 24 hours after Polish politicians slammed the ruling by the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights.
A report by children's and family affairs minister Ainars Baštiks and minister with special portfolio for public integration Oskars Kastēns called the ECHR court ruling "completely unjustified and unacceptable", according to the Latvian daily newspaper Diena.
The two ministers said that the ruling ignores circumstances in which an adopted child should live, the psychological compatibility between future parents and the child, and the possible influence which the child might face.
LPP/LC says that the ministers and all members of the political group agree.
Today's Diena says that the LPP/LC group "categorically rejects" the comparison of homosexual relations or same-gender cohabitation with a family, and permission for homosexual couples to seek the status of a family and to adopt children violates Section 110 of the Latvian Constitution which says that "the State shall protect and support marriage, the family, the rights of parents and rights of the child…"
Mozaika, the Latvian gay rights group, charges that LPP/LC has "confused various concepts" in its announcement, "revealed its lack of knowledge", and falsely interpreted the fundamental rights that are guaranteed in the Latvian Constitution.
The group cites Section 89 of the Constitution states that Latvia recognises and protects fundamental human rights in accordance with international treaties to which it is party.
[Latvia signed the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms on February 10, 1995, and ratified it on June 27, 1997. The Convention came into effect in Latvia on the date of ratification.]
"As a member state of the Council of Europe, Latvia must observe the terms of the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms," Mozaika says in a statement.
"The Convention and the law with which the Latvian parliament (the Saeima) ratified it both state very clearly that the State recognises the right of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to interpret the Convention.
"Accordingly, any ECHR ruling is binding to all countries which have ratified the Convention. This, in turn, means that the fundamental rights that are defined in the Constitution must be interpreted in accordance with the Convention and the interpretation of Convention norms that are stated in ECHR rulings.
"The argument that the ECHR ruling is in violation of the Constitution is not only false, but in fact impossible," Mozaika says.
Translations from Latvia courtesy ILGA-Europe.
■ Statistics show that approximately 33 per cent of Latvia's children are growing up in 'single-parent families', while 44% of newborns are born to unmarried parents.
■ The Ecumenical News International news agency in Switzerland is reporting that Cardinal Jānis Pujāts, the head of the Roman Catholic in Latvia, has urged political party leaders not to field homosexual candidates in elections or appoint gays and lesbians to public positions. Almost a year ago, Cardinal Pujāts claimed that all gays were "prostitutes".
SEE ALSO
Polish Politicians Dismiss European Court Ruling on Gay Adoption. While gay men and women welcomed this weeks ruling by the European Court of Human Rights on adoption by gay men and women, Polish politicians have effectively said that they would take no notice of what the Grand Chamber of Europe's highest court has said. (UK Gay News, January 23, 2008)
Exclusion of Gays, Lesbians from Adoption Process Breaks European Law – Court. The European Court of Human Rights has ruled today that gay men and women are eligible to eligible to adopt children. (UK Gay News, January 22, 2008)
Gaydar works: in a fraction of a second, people can accurately judge sexual orientation
Talk about "gaydar." In just a fraction of a second, people can accurately judge the sexual orientation of other individuals by glancing at their faces, according to new research. The finding builds on the growing theory that the subconscious mind detects and probably guides much more of human behavior than is realized. Nalini Ambady and colleague Nicholas Rule, both at Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts, wondered about sexual orientation. They showed men and women photos of 90 faces belonging to homosexual men and heterosexual men for intervals ranging from 33 milliseconds to 10 seconds. When given 100 milliseconds or more to view a face, participants correctly identified sexual orientation nearly 70% of the time. Volunteers were less accurate at shorter durations, and their accuracy did not get better at durations beyond 100 milliseconds, the team reports in an upcoming issue of the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology. "What is most interesting is that increased exposure time did not improve the results," says Ambady. More of An Eye for Sexual Orientation @ ScienceNOW Daily News
Charges considered over teen water polo photos
Prosecutors in Orange County, California are investigating whether they can bring any charges against a university employee who took pictures of teenage water polo players and then posted them on gay porn sites. Paul Cornelius, 44, reported to be a police dispatcher at the University of California Irvine, is not under formal investigation but has been put on paid leave. As the photos were taken at public sporting events, he may be protected by the First Amendment of the US Constitution protecting free speech. See Charges considered over teen water polo photos while the Dispatcher and 'Water Polo Photographer' Placed On Leave – background here: Teen water-polo pics posted to porn sites
Pitt Law Professor's New Book a Resource for Gays and Lesbians
”Everyday Law for Gays and Lesbians and Those Who Care About Them” (Paradigm Publishers, 2008), a new book by University of Pittsburgh associate professor of law Anthony C. Infanti, presents an informative view of the legal issues facing the gay and lesbian community.
In the book, available in February, Infanti explains the many ways the law applies to and affects lesbian and gay lives. Each chapter opens with a story about actual experiences of lesbians and gay men and then uses those experiences as a springboard for discussing the law. Issues discussed include marriage and its alternatives, bias crimes, the military, education, employment, housing, medical and tax planning, and parenting. Going beyond a mere summary of the law, the book provides both legal and nonlegal strategies for coping with and effecting positive change in the law as it affects the lives of lesbians and gay men.
Patricia Cain, Inez Mabie Professor of Law at Santa Clara University, is quoted on the book jacket: “[“Everyday Law”]. . . is a combination of powerful narrative and intricate legal analysis. Anthony Infanti writes in a style that is easily accessible for nonlawyers while also providing the details and research notes that lawyers and academics will appreciate. His message, that legal change alone will not stamp out antigay bias, is not new, but his telling of this story is fresh, insightful, and full of constructive suggestions for social activists who wish to advance the cause. This book should be mandatory reading for anyone who cares about lesbians and gay men.”
Infanti's areas of specialization include taxation and critical tax theory. His articles have appeared in such publications as the “Florida Tax Review,” the “Vanderbilt Journal of Transnational Law”, the “University of Pittsburgh Law Review,” the Tax “Management International Journal,” and “Taxes” magazine. His work in the area of critical tax theory, which focuses particularly on the application of the tax laws to lesbians and gay men, has been published in the “Buffalo Law Review,” the “Santa Clara Law Review,” the “Whittier Law Review,” “Unbound: The Harvard Journal of the Legal Left,” the “Saint Louis University Public Law Review,” and “The Tax Lawyer.”
Petitions seeking judge's impeachment over gay marriage delivered
Petitions calling for the impeachment of a judge who overturned Iowa's ban on gay marriages have been delivered to Legislature. The petitions, with over 6,000 signatures, were handed over today by social conservative Bill Salier (suh-LEER'). He says the goal is to "stop a runaway judiciary." Salier says Polk County Judge Robert Hanson overstepped his authority by legalizing gay marriage last summer. Hanson stayed his ruling while it's under appeal to the Iowa Supreme Court.See Petitions seeking judge's impeachment over gay marriage delivered
WQAD, IL
Seattle Residents Criticize Blood Donor Policies That Exclude Gay ...
Prospective blood donors are accusing blood banks in the Seattle area of discriminatory regulations that bar most gay and bisexual men from giving blood, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer reported Tuesday.
After the Puget Sound Blood Center announced last week that western Washington’s blood reserves were at emergency levels, some residents voiced frustration at policies that turn away about 6% of those who volunteer to donate blood. About 24,000 people have been placed on the region’s permanent deferral list based on answers to screening questions, according to the center, and men who have had sexual contact with another man since 1977 are automatically rejected. Seattle Residents Criticize Blood Donor Policies That Exclude Gay ...
Advocate.com, CA -
Activists celebrate 30 years of gay rights
In the spirit of the revolutionaries and pilgrims who gathered there centuries earlier, the Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders met at the Old South Meeting House last night to celebrate the organization's 30 years of activism.
"So many things have been discussed here . . . if we aren't going to seize the time, what are we seizing now?" asked author and GLAD panelist Susan Bright. See Activists celebrate 30 years of gay rights
Daily Free Press (subscription), MA
NY Court Asked To Strike Down Gay Pension Ruling
A New York State court was asked Thursday to strike down a ruling in a long running battle over pension rights, that denied recognition of a same-sex couple's Canadian marriage. See NY Court Asked To Strike Down Gay Pension Ruling
365Gay.com -
Gay holocaust victims to be remembered in Westminster
Homosexuals murdered by the Nazis will be among those remembered at a solemn ceremony on Monday in Westminster to mark Holocaust Memorial Day.
150 teenagers and young people from across the London borough will present a powerful and poignant mix of drama, video and singing through a series of digital media presentations as they take part in a solemn ceremony. Gay holocaust victims to be remembered in Westminster
PinkNews.co.uk, UK
Amnesty: Stop Gay Executions in Iran
Amnesty International has issued a worldwide call to halt the executions of two men convicted of "kidnapping or raping two men in the Southern Fars province," in a January 18 press release. The imminent punishment will involve the men being thrown from a cliff or other height to their deaths. Amnesty wants the sentences commuted. Got read more @ Amnesty: Stop Gay Executions in Iran
Gay City News
Drunk Driver Melissa Arrington Laughed Over Killing 'Gay Guy'
A drunk driver who killed a cyclist in Arizona has been sentenced to ten years in jail after a judge heard a recording in which she laughed over the man's death. Melissa Arrington, a exotic dancer from Tucson, killed Paul L'Ecuyer in 2006 while driving drunk. See Drunk Driver Melissa Arrington Laughed Over Killing 'Gay Guy'
Gay Wired, CA Also:
Woman Laughs About Killing 'Gay Guy'... Angel City's Devil
10 years for drunk-driver who "took out treehugger" Times Online
Woman gets 10 1/2 years after laughing about bicyclist's death KVOA.com
Round One begins at the Legislature to end prejudice against the transgendered
When Ariana Losco felt her supervisor grab her wrist and push her back into her chair sneering, “You’re not going anywhere,” it churned up dark memories. Memories of when Ariana was David—his memories like a stranger’s, even though they were of her past.
The clench of her supervisor’s grip conjured up the recollection of walking through her high school parking lot after the homecoming football game when a group of schoolmates swarmed her, carrying her off in the dark, promising she would be hanged that night and not live to see the next day. … Lawyers told Losco they would be happy to fight a discrimination case for her—that is, if there were a law on the books to protect her. Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is “basically not against the law, simple as that,” explains John Black, one of the attorneys Losco had contacted.
Round One begins at the Legislature to end prejudice against the transgendered
Salt Lake City Weekly
Gay couples no different than straight ones
For the past few days, my RSS reader has been crammed with posts about this study by five researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
They compared the relationships of committed homosexual couples (30 gay and 30 lesbian) with those of committed (and non-committed heterosexual pairs (50 engaged, 40 married and 109 exclusive daters).
And what did they find? (This should be no surprise if you read the title of this post)
Results indicated that individuals in committed same-sex relationships were generally not distinguishable from their committed heterosexual counterparts, with one exception — lesbians were especially effective at working together harmoniously in laboratory observations.
The lesbian bit was quite interesting. I don't know if my own experience mirrors that observation, but I've always been a contrary person. :)
The BHA Science Group blog also mentions another study, in which researchers found that more gay committed couples felt happier about their relationship than straight ones, possibly because they were under less pressure to stay together. Gay couples no different than straight ones
Baltimore Sun, United States
Matt Foreman steps down from National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
SAN FRANCISCO – The executive director of one of the nation's leading gay rights groups has accepted a new job with a philanthropic foundation in San Francisco.
Matt Foreman has been at the helm of the New York-based National Gay and Lesbian Task Force for five years. In April, he plans to start working for the Evelyn & Walter Haas, Jr. Fund as head of the foundation's gay and lesbian program.
Matt Foreman steps down from National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
San Diego Union Tribune, United States -
Get In the Gay Swim of Things
They have wonderful names—the Atlanta Rainbow Trout, the Queer Utah Athletic Club (QUAC), and SQUID—Swimming Queers United in Denver. They’re gay and lesbian swim clubs, and they’re splashing through pools around the world. There may even be one in your own home town. These clubs are a great way to keep in shape while making new friends and contributing to your community.
According to the history of International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics (IGLA), “The first gay swim team with its own practices and coaches began in Los Angeles a few months before Gay Games I, in 1982.” By Gay Games II, in 1986, there were gay and lesbian teams in San Diego, Seattle and Vancouver as well.
More of Get In the Gay Swim of Things
Gay Wired, CA -
Sexual harassment accused praises gay man's package
A woman accused of sexually harassing a gay man she claimed she respected like a brother said his private parts were "very large for a small man".
Allwyn Rondeau, a guard for G4S Security Services at Heathrow airport, repeatedly told 42-year-old Lucy Chilton, from Staines, that he was gay and not interested, a tribunal heard last week.
Sexual harassment accused praises gay man's package
Wimbledon Guardian, UK
Director defends gay Jesus play
Leigh Rowney, the director of Corpus Christi, a play that depicts Jesus as a gay man who is seduced by Judas and conducts a gay marriage for two apostles, has spoken out against criticism from religious leaders.
As reported in Sydney’s Sun Herald newspaper on Sunday, January 20, the Anglican Bishop of South Sydney, Robert Forsyth, has labelled the play by Terrence McNally, which opens at New Theatre on February 7 as part of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, ‘deliberately offensive’. Australian Family Association spokesperson Angela Conway said the play ‘borders on blasphemous’.
“I belong to a church community that embraces anyone who wants to come and worship,” Rowney, a practicing Christian, told MCV. Director defends gay Jesus play
SX, Australia -
January 23, 2008
Actor Heath Ledger Remembered, Autopsy Is Inconclusive
Additional blood and tissue testing needs to be performed before the manner and cause of death can be determined, Ms. Borakove said in a phone interview, estimating that the process could take 10 days to two weeks. “If you have no apparent cause, you have to do further testing,” she said.No cause of death has been ruled out, she added. See Ledger Autopsy Is Inconclusive
Also:
- Actor Heath Ledger Remembered
ABC News - Heath Ledger: 1979-2008
Entertainment Weekly - Ledger's Death Is Film World's Loss
NPR - - Family of Heath Ledger deny Brokeback star
Times Online, UK - Stars pay tribute to Heath Ledger
BBC News, UK - Heath Ledger: An Appreciation
New York Magazine, USA - In photos: 'Heath Ledger'
Monsters and Critics.com - Remembering Heath Ledger
Salon - Ledger's life
Sydney Morning Herald, Australia - Heath Ledger: An Appreciation
People Magazine - Heath Ledger's brilliant career ends in tragedy
Sydney Morning Herald, Australia - Philosophy of Heath Ledger
Sydney Morning Herald, Australia - Tragic end to short life of a rising star
New Zealand Herald, New Zealand - - A 'beautiful flame'
NEWS.com.au, Australia - - The sleepless stress of a troubled star
Sydney Morning Herald, Australia -
* Tags = gay men gay news lesbian news transgender Heath Ledger
Europe: Gay Adoption Ruling Advances Family Equality
Governments Should Change Laws
(New York, January 24, 2008) – The European Court of Human Rights’ ruling that a lesbian woman can embark on the process of adopting a child means European states should ensure equality in the right to found a family, Human Rights Watch said today.
The court, ruling on January 22, 2008 in the case of E.B. v. France, held by 10 votes to seven that the French authorities’ refusal of a lesbian’s application to obtain authorization to adopt a child on the grounds of her sexual orientation was unlawful. The court said France had violated Article 14 (prohibition of discrimination) and Article 8 (right to respect for private and family life) of the European Convention on Human Rights.
“This groundbreaking ruling means governments can’t use sexual orientation to stop someone from adopting a child,” said Scott Long, director of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Program at Human Rights Watch. “Adoption decisions should be based on the best interests of the child, uncontaminated by prejudice.”
The court is the oversight mechanism for the European Convention and its decisions are binding across the 47 members of the Council of Europe (CoE) who have ratified the convention.
The decision marks a turning point in the court’s jurisprudence on family rights. In a previous 2002 case, Fretté v. France, the European Court of Human Rights had ruled, four votes to three, that preventing a gay man from applying to adopt a child because of his sexual orientation did not violate the convention.
The plaintiff in the present case, E.B., is a 45-year-old nursery school teacher who has lived with a woman psychologist, R., since 1990. In February 1998, E.B. applied to the Jura Social Services Department to adopt a child, informing them about her sexual orientation and her relationship with R. The adoption board recommended rejecting the application in November 1998. In March 1999, the president of the council of the Jura Social Services Department refused the petition, affirming the board’s decision. On June 5, 2002, the national Conseil d’Etat confirmed this decision. French law specifically permits single people to apply to adopt children. However, the rejections cited the absence of a “paternal referent” in the applicant’s home.
In its decision, the court found that, having expressly extended the “right to apply for authorization to adopt” to single parents, France “could not then take discriminatory measures in applying it.” It found that the terms of the rejections constituted implicit discrimination based on sexual orientation. The court has thus established a precedent that adoption procedures must offer fair treatment not only to single parents, but to lesbian and gay potential parents.
While many European states – from Spain to Hungary – have opened either full civil marriage or some form of civil-union status to same-sex partners, some restrict lesbians and gays from adopting children either individually or as couples. States including Iceland, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom allow same-sex couples to adopt children jointly. Denmark, Germany, and Norway permit one lesbian or gay partner to adopt the other’s children. Among others, Portugal and Italy keep gays and lesbians from adopting.
The current decision ensures that governments that allow for single parent adoption will no longer be able to exclude people from applying for adoption based solely on their sexual orientation.
“Sexual orientation should not be a factor in determining the best interest of the child,” said Long. “Prejudice should never interfere with giving children the care and love they deserve.”
Gay Canadian Health Minister Offended Over Donor Ban
By now, Canada's archaic approach to screening possible organ donors is well known. In a relatively rare move for the western-world, last month Health Canada required donors of organs to be screened out based on their homosexuality. Now, Canada's only openly gay Health Minister is speaking out. George Smitherman, Health Minister of Ontario, calls the ban "offensive" and says he will aggressively work with the LGBT community to encourage an end to the discrimination. He goes on to say the ban on gay organ donors was "very insensitive" of Health Canada, and will do everything he can to have it overturned.
Gay Canadian Health Minister Offended Over Donor Ban
Angel City's Devil,
Man Probed On Water Polo Photos On Gay Sites
A UC Irvine dispatcher under investigation to determine if he took pictures of unsuspecting male water polo players from 14 high schools for posting on gay-oriented Web sites was placed on leave Wednesday, officials said. Scott Cornelius was put on paid administrative leave to avoid conflicts and help the investigation progress, UCI Police Chief Paul Henisey told the Orange County Register.
Because the probe involves a person employed by the university, the probe is being conducted by an outside agency which will do an independent investigation, UCI's Cathy Lawhon said.
More gay people are reporting crimes
HAMPSHIRE has seen a major surge in the number of gay-hate crimes being reported.
From 2006 to 2007 Hampshire police recorded 517 homophobic incidents – almost double the 253 recorded from 2004 to 2005.
The figures were revealed at a meeting of Hampshire police authority's performance committee. More gay people are reporting crimes
Portsmouth News, UK
£375000 improvements for gay cruising park
A raft of improvements costing more than £375,000 will be made at a renowned gay cruising site in Northampton.
Borough council chiefs hope the investment will open up Midsummer Meadows and Becket's Park to all sections of the community.
A new riverside walk along the River Nene with seating will be created in Midsummer Meadow, along with a docking area for boats, while the path in neighbouring Becket's Park will also be improved. The area, next to Bedford Road, has developed a reputation as being a popular location for gay men to meet up. £375000 improvements for gay cruising park
Northampton Chronicle & Echo, UK
Puerto Rico gov. allows referemdum against gay marriage
Puerto Rico's governor said Wednesday he would not block a referendum to toughen a ban on same-sex marriage in the U.S. island territory even though he believes the proposed constitutional amendment is unnecessary and divisive.
Gov. Anibal Acevedo Vila told reporters he would sign the bill authorizing a May referendum if the measure gets the required two-thirds majority of votes in the island's House of Representatives. It has already passed in the Senate.
Acevedo was asked about his support after the leaders of an association of 2,300 churches, the Pentecostal Brotherhood, said the governor told them in private that he would sign the bill.
"I told them that the people need more agendas that unite them rather than divide them," Acevedo said. "But I also told them that if they have two-thirds of the legislature, well, I cannot get in the way."
A vote has not yet been scheduled in the Puerto Rico's House of Representatives. Puerto Rico gov. allows referemdum against gay marriage
USA Today -
The Advocate Nominated for Four GLAAD Media Awards GLAAD for excellence in print and online editions
The Advocate, the award-winning newsmagazine for the LGBT community, has been nominated for four 19th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, the first gay-focused magazine ever to receive the honor. The Advocate's print edition picked up three nods, while the magazine's online edition, Advocate.com garnered a nomination in the digital journalism category. The Advocate is a flagship brand of PlanetOut Inc. (NASDAQ:LGBT) , the leading media and entertainment company exclusively focused on the gay and lesbian market.
This year GLAAD (The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) has included LGBT media as well as "mainstream" media in its awards competition. The Advocate was the only gay-focused magazine selected for inclusion. In the category of Best Magazine Article, the magazine received two nods -- for "Akinola's Power Play," an investigation into the anti-gay schism in the Anglican Church; and "Special Report: Gays at War," telling personal stories of gay and lesbian troops serving openly in Iraq. The Advocate will also compete in the category of Best Overall Coverage.
On the online side, Advocate.com garnered a Best Digital Journalism nomination for its Special 40th Anniversary channel, showcasing the magazine's distinguished body of work. The Advocate also participated in the Oprah Winfrey Show episode "Gay Around the World," in which Advocate Deputy Editor Rachel Dowd appeared. The program received a GLAAD award nomination for Best Talk Show Episode.
"The Advocate is proud to be nominated alongside such distinguished titles as Newsweek, The Atlantic Monthly, and GQ," said Advocate Editor in Chief Anne Stockwell. "We appreciate GLAAD's recognition of the journalistic excellence we strive to achieve in every issue. These nominations point to a new level of visibility and respect for gay media."
The 19th annual GLAAD Media Awards will be held in New York on March 17, 2008; in South Florida on April 12; in Los Angeles on April 26; and in San Francisco on May 11.
About The Advocate
Celebrating its 41st year in print, The Advocate is the world's leading gay and lesbian newsmagazine. The magazine reports twice monthly on news, politics, business, medical issues, and arts & entertainment. Hailed by The Washington Post as the "standard of gay journalism," The Advocate distributes almost four million copies each year. Please visit http://www.advocate.com/.
About PlanetOut Inc.
PlanetOut Inc. is the leading global media and entertainment company exclusively serving the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.
PlanetOut's digital media brands include Gay.com, PlanetOut.com, Advocate.com, Out.com, OutTraveler.com and HIVPlusMag.com. PlanetOut print media brands include The Advocate, Out, The Out Traveler and HIVPlus, as well as SpecPub, Inc. titles. Transaction services brands include e-commerce Web sites Kleptomaniac.com and BuyGay.com, and book publisher Alyson Publications.
PlanetOut, based in San Francisco with additional offices in New York and Los Angeles, offers Global 1000 and local advertisers access to what it believes to be the most extensive multi-channel, multi-platform network of gay and lesbian people in the world. For more information, please visit http://www.planetoutinc.com/.
Frameline Grantee Nominated for Academy Award
Frameline (http://www.frameline.org/), one of the world's premiere organizations supporting LGBT films and filmmakers, today announced that a movie funded by the San Francisco-based nonprofit has been nominated for an Academy Award: Freeheld, whose director Cynthia Wade received $5,000 from the Frameline Completion Fund, has been nominated for "Best Documentary Short Subject."
"We are honored that the Frameline Completion Fund could provide support for such a powerful film that is receiving one film's highest honors," said Jennifer Morris, Frameline Director of Programming. "Frameline would like to thank the Academy for its ongoing support of the LGBT community and our stories."
Frameline Completion Fund winner Freeheld follows the desperate battle of Lieutenant Laurel Hester, a dying New Jersey police officer who fights to transfer her pension to her domestic partner. On this nail-biting journey, Laurel loses her hair, her health, her badge and, ultimately, her life -- but not before winning a historic court case witnessed around the world.
Founded in 1979, Frameline's mission is to strengthen the diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and further its visibility by supporting and promoting a broad array of cultural representations and artistic expression in film, video, and other media arts. Frameline's year-round programs provide critical funding for LGBT filmmakers, reach hundreds of thousands with a collection of more than 200 films distributed internationally, and create an international stage for the world's best queer film through the San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival and additional year-round cinematic events. For more information about Frameline please visit http://www.frameline.org/
Liverpool remembers gay holocaust victims
A pink triangle wreath will by laid at a special ceremony in remembrance of all homosexuals who suffered at the hands of the Nazi Regime.
The event takes place in Liverpool on Friday (25 January) at St Johns Gardens and a two minute silence will follow the laying of the flowers
The wreath will be laid by representatives from the Homotopia festival, Armistead (a sexual health service for gay and bisexual men), Lambda Centre Warsaw and Merseyside Police Anti-Hate Crime Unit.
Director of the Homotopia festival, Gary Everett, who has organised the wreath-laying event said: "The Holocaust was one of the most horrific and evil chapters in modern history.
"It is of continuing importance that we not only remember the many lives lost but always be vigilant that something of this magnitude never happens again.'
Over 65,000 gay men from Europe were persecuted, murdered or interned between 1934 and 1945 and suffered some of the most inhuman treatment in the Nazi concentration camps. City remembers gay holocaust victims
Liverpool City Council, United Kingdom -
Gay-Marriage Battle Looms in Florida
Where's the latest battle over gay marriage being fought? See why one state's fight over gay marriage may not even make it to the ballot box this year.
Gay-Marriage Battle Looms in Florida
DiversityInc.com (subscription)
Poland defiant over gay adoptions
Following yesterday's ruling by the European Court of Human Rights that gay people are entitled to adopt, a leading member of the governing political party in Poland has said they will defy the ruling.
The deputy speaker of the Parliament, Stefan Niesiolowski, is a member of the Citizen's Platform (PO).
"The Court can go on and make a ruling, it still won't be enforced in Poland," he said.
"We will defend ourselves because it's unthinkable that homosexuals would adopt children Poland defiant over gay adoptions
PinkNews.co.uk, UK
Polish Politicians Dismiss European Court Ruling on Gay Adoption
While gay men and women welcomed this weeks ruling by the European Court of Human Rights on adoption by gay men and women, Polish politicians have effectively said that they would take no notice of what the Grand Chamber of Europe’s highest court has said.
The case was bought by a French gay woman who claimed that she was not permitted to apply to be an adoptive parent on grounds of sexuality.
“It’s a milestone,” said Robert Biedron, president of the Warsaw-based Campaign Against Homophobia, speaking about the Strasbourg court ruling.
“This decision prevents administrators of various countries from denying LGB people adoption which has happened in many places.”
But Polish politicians have vowed to disregard the court ruling.
“If a similar judgment dealt with Poland we would still not agree to adoption by homosexuals”, said deputy speaker of the Polish Parliament, Stefan Niesiolowski, a member of the ruling Citizen’s Platform (PO).
“The Court can go on and make a ruling,” he continued.
“[But] it still won’t be enforced in Poland. We will defend ourselves because it’s unthinkable that homosexuals would adopt children.”
Mr. Niesiolowski was backed by some constitutional law professors like Marek Chmaj.
He said that the Court in Strasbourg does not have the power to change the decisions of national courts – but can only give their opinion in regards to whether the application of the law was just.
“This ruling will have no effect on the legal situation of homosexuals to adopt in Poland as the European Convention of Human Rights does not refer to this issue”, said Prof. Chmaj.
Mr. Biedron expressed disbelief.
“I am shocked of the statements of some politicians who are trying to deny power of the European Court,” he said.
Polls show that around 93% of Poles are against adoption by homosexuals.
■ Poland signed-up to – and ratified – membership of the Council of Europe following the fall of the Soviet Union. Membership includes adoption of the European Charter on Human Rights and recognition of the European Court of Human Rights. Membership of the Council of Europe is a pre-requisite for a notion to join the European Union.
Gore Posts Video Backing Gay Marriage
Huuf post: “Al Gore has quietly released a video with a forceful endorsement of equal marriage rights for gays and lesbians. It pushes the Democratic establishment that much closer to a position he now shares with Eliot Spitzer and some other leading Dems, and is prompting a bit of grumbling in gay political circles that this batch of candidates aren't quite there.
"Gay men and women ought to have the same rights as heterosexual men and women -- to make contracts, to have hospital visiting rights, to join together in marriage, and I don't understand why it is considered by some people to be a threat to heterosexual marriage," he says on the video, which appears on his Current TV network. "Shouldn't we be promoting the kind of faithfulness and loyalty to ones partner regardless of sexual orientation?"
Read more here”
Mind The Gay Athletes
Gay folk are always calling for “straight” athletes to come out of the closet. Though rare, a few athletes have come out, like John Amaechi. Amaechi, however, followed a common path: revealing his true identity only after reaching retirement. See Mind The Gay Athletes
Queerty, NY
GAY HATE GROUP TO PICKET LEDGER'S FUNERAL
A U.S. gay hate group has sparked outrage with plans to picket the funeral of tragic actor HEATH LEDGER.
The Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas - run by Reverend Fred Phelps has posted plans on its website to protest at Ledger's portrayal of a gay cowboy in 2005 film Brokeback Mountain.
Oscar nomination for documentary about lesbian cop
A short documentary feature that chronicles a landmark legal battle over same-sex partner entitlement to pension benefits has been nominated for an Academy Award.
Cynthia Wade's moving 38-minute documentary film Freeheld focuses on New Jersey Police Lieutenant Laurel Hester's battle to transfer her pension to her domestic partner, Stacie Andree.
The film was awarded a Special Jury Prize at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival and picked up eleven additional awards at film festivals in New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Seattle and Denver.
click here for the full article
So Suze Orman Is Gay, What Does That Have To Do with Financial Advice?
This story was originally published in QueerCents, a site devoted to "LGBT" financial advice.
Suze Orman is the most famous personal finance adviser in the world -- and she's as queer as a three dollar bill. To be fair, I'm sure Suze would prefer to be characterized in Euros or gold coins.
Orman came out of the closet this winter, after years of professional fame, in a "casual chat'" with Deborah Solomon at the New York Times. It appeared as if she'd made an impulsive decision on the eve of her new book's debut: Women and Money: Owning the Power to Control Your Destiny.
See the turning point in her interview @ So Suze Orman Is Gay, What Does That Have To Do with Financial Advice?
AlterNet
New Web-Based Soap Opera About Sex Lives of Gay Men Makes HIV ...
Five young gay guys, living together in an apartment complex where they all face decisions about their sex lives, sounds like the description of a television soap-opera. But it also describes the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center's groundbreaking new HIV prevention/education campaign.
By blending the appeal of sexy digital soaps with online forums, the Center's In the Moment series of "webisodes," the first of which is funded by the City of West Hollywood, promotes safer sex in a manner that is more entertaining, interactive and accessible than traditional prevention programs.
"Since this campaign is available to anyone who has access to a computer," says Alton Carswell, program coordinator for the Center's WeHoLife.org HIV prevention program, "we can reach guys who don't go to bars, clubs or meetings and they can engage -- anonymously if they prefer -- discussing whatever is on their mind. That was one of our goals."
The first of the 12 planned webisodes, five minutes in length and available for viewing at http://www.weholife.org/, introduces the characters and features a scene with a couple in bed. When the action heats up, one of the guys reaches for a condom, but before he can finish opening it, his boyfriend has already entered him without protection, and in the pleasure of the moment, he doesn't object.
After watching the webisode, viewers will be invited to participate in an online discussion to address such questions as: Whose responsibility should it be to put the condom on? As a couple is it ever OK to have unprotected sex? Did the receptive partner lead his boyfriend to believe it was OK to enter him without a condom? Is it ever OK to enter someone, not wearing a condom, without that person's permission? Is the pleasure of unprotected sex worth the risk?
"Traditional methods of HIV prevention, like condom distribution, remain incredibly important," says independent filmmaker Dave O'Brien, 31, who wrote, directed and co-developed In the Moment, "But what's missing among a younger generation of gay guys is any real discussion about HIV and safer sex. In the Moment is a sexy and entertaining way to capture their attention and stimulate dialogue regarding real-world sexual situations many gay men face today."
The launch of the In the Moment series comes at a time when there are growing concerns regarding the HIV infection rate among young gay men. New York City health officials recently reported that new HIV infections among gay and bisexual men, under the age of 30, rose 32% between 2001 and 2002. During the same period, new infections among older gay men there dropped 22%.
"We are grateful the City of West Hollywood has funded this initiative, through our WeHoLife.org program, to promote healthy living among those who live, work and visit West Hollywood," said Susan Cohen, director of the Center's Health Education and Prevention Department. "Of course, we know it also has the potential to stimulate safer sex discussions among anyone with a computer and we will be monitoring web traffic, with the hope that we can secure funding for the remaining 11 webisodes."
BACTERIA NOT GAY PLAGUE
A new, difficult to treat strain of Staph infection found in San Francisco gay men is likely to spread in Sydney as Mardi Gras tourists party, but experts say it’s already here and it’s not a “gay disease”.
A University of California, San Francisco study released this month found sexually active gay men in the area were 13 times more likely to be infected with the new highly antibiotic-resistant strain of bacteria called MRSA USA 300.
But the study’s authors this week criticised the worldwide reporting, telling Newsweek it helped nobody for the strain to be labelled as a “gay disease” as MRSA strains were common among the military, sports players, and children.
The Australian newspaper’s headline, “Flesh-eating bug spreads among gays”, was singled out in the criticism.
The university apologised following complaints from US gay activists that gay men were being stigmatised.
“It’s not a gay plague, it’s not the new HIV. It is media hype,” ACON community health director Nick Corrigan said.
The bacterium is transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, not necessarily sexual, and in warm, wet areas. This could include typical Mardi Gras tourist choices like dance parties, saunas and sex premises. BACTERIA NOT GAY PLAGUE
Sydney Star Observer, Australia
Peer attacks Stonewall's influence on UK government
In an outspoken speech decrying the proposed new offence of incitement to hatred on the grounds of sexual orientation, a member of the House of Lords has accused gay equality organisation Stonewall of having "undue influence" over the government.
The Lords were debating the proposal, which is part of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill.
Lord Stoddart of Swindon attacked Stonewall, claiming that it does not have the "full support" of the gay community.
click here for the full article
Researchers contrite over gay MRSA story
Public affairs officials in San Francisco have apologised for the way in which a statement last Tuesday about gay men being more vulnerable to a new super-resistant strain of the MRSA superbug was handled.
Parts of the tabloid press dubbed it a "new HIV."
In a new statement on their website, the University of California at San Francisco's (UCSF) Department of Public Affairs states they "regret that our recent news report ... contained some information that could be interpreted as misleading."
click here for the full article
The big business of commitment
If the rainbow-painted deck chairs, fluttering rainbow flag and purple shutters do not make it clear, the Highlands Inn's toll-free number, 877-LES-B-INN, leaves no doubt as to whom this White Mountains resort in New Hampshire caters to.
Innkeeper Grace Newman began hosting commitment ceremonies at this self-proclaimed "lesbian paradise" - in the 1980s.
Newman says she has lost track of the number of commitment ceremonies that have happened there; she estimates about 300 couples have honeymooned at the inn after getting civil unions in Vermont or marriages in Quebec, Canada, both short drives away.
See The big business of commitment
The Age, Australia -
US evangelicals rate gays as top election issue
A survey has revealed that for evangelical Christians in the United States homosexuality is one of the key issues in the 2008 election.
The Barna Group's research found that in this important group of voters abortion was the most pressing problem their country faces for 94%.
For 75% of evangelicals "homosexual lifestyles" or the "political efforts of homosexual activists" were a concern. Among the general population only 35% agreed.
click here for the full article
Former Top Gay Cop to Join Police Officers on Pay March Protest
London Liberal Democrat Mayoral Candidate Brian Paddick, who was the most senior openly gay police officer in the UK until he retired last summer, will be joining the Police Federation march through central London today to demonstrate against the Government’s refusal to honour the police pay award.
“The police pay deal is a cynical attack on police officers because they cannot strike,” Mr. Paddick said last night.
“These brave men and women put their lives on the line for us every day and they deserve to be treated fairly.
“With Scottish police officers and all police support staff getting the full rise, all the arguments that the Home Secretary is using to restrict the police pay rise to 1.9% are blown out of the water.
“Give the police what the independent pay review says they are worth,” he added.
The Government’s back-tracking on a deal over pay awards for the police in return for a ‘no strike’ agreement means police officers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland will only see a 1.9% rise in their annual salary, compared with the 2.4% that Scottish officers and all UK police support staff have been awarded.
Today’s march, which starts from Hyde Park Corner at 11.30am, will be attended by members of the defence police; the British Transport police; English, Welsh and Northern Irish police forces and representatives from the Scottish police.
Over 18,000 police officers are expected to attend, organisers say.
Hamilton fun bus for Auckland's Big Gay Out
The Waikato's LGBT community has been invited to get on board a 'Priscilla'-style adventure bus trip going to Auckland's Big Gay Out family outdoor day on Sunday 10 February. See Hamilton fun bus for Auckland's Big Gay Out
Gay NZ, New Zealand -
January 22, 2008
Blood bank bias alleged against gay, bisexual men
Would-be donors in the Seattle area are accusing blood banks of discriminatory policies banning most gay and bisexual men from giving blood.
When the Puget Sound Blood Center announced last week that Western Washington's blood supply was at emergency levels, some people responded with frustration at the stringent requirements that deny about 6 percent of those who try to donate blood.
About 24,000 people have been placed on the Western Washington permanent deferral list in the past decade, according to the Puget Sound Blood Center. An extra 3,000 are temporarily deferred, for periods ranging from one day to three years. The area's blood centers have accepted blood from nearly 443,000 donors during the same time. See Blood bank bias alleged against gay, bisexual men
Seattle Post Intelligencer -
Sex please, we're British: poll
Britons are taking a more liberal attitude toward sex and marriage, but retain traditional views on how best to raise children, an annual report said Wednesday.
A majority now think there is nothing wrong with sex before marriage and society is increasingly comfortable with gay relationships, according to the 24th annual report by the National Centre for Social Research.
Entitled "New Families? Tradition and Change in Modern Relationships," the study found that men's views about marriage and parenting tend to be more traditional than women's.
The survey follows major changes in British family life, the study's authors say. The number of single-person households and cohabitation is on the rise, while marriage rates are at their lowest since 1986.
Meanwhile civil partnerships -- dubbed "gay marriages" -- which give homosexual couples similar rights to wedded heterosexual couples, have been legal in Britain since December 2005.
The random survey of 3,000 people found that 70 percent think sex before marriage is fine, compared with 48 percent in 1984. See Sex please, we're British: poll
AFP
Married couples are no longer the social norm in UK
Heterosexual married couples are no longer regarded as the "norm", the largest survey of social attitudes in Britain shows today. Government support for gay couples and single parents, the rise in cohabitation and an official failure to support traditional marriage are said to have resulted in previously unconventional lifestyles becoming widely accepted.
But people hold less tolerant views of family set-ups in which children are involved, it is claimed.
The British Social Attitudes report, by the National Centre for Social Research, is significant because the questions it asks are developed and paid for in collaboration with Government departments to inform social policy. The survey, based on the views of 3,300 adults, has been running since 1983 and is an important barometer of opinion. See Married couples are no longer the social norm Telegraph.co.uk
A Rough-Edged Actor Who Carved An Indelible Image
Here is Heath Ledger -- fresh and hunky and unknown -- singing "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" and dancing on the school stadium bleachers in a teen flick adaptation of Shakespeare ("10 Things I Hate About You," a reworking of "The Taming of the Shrew"). Here is Heath Ledger caressing that empty, soiled cowboy shirt kept by his dead lover in "Brokeback Mountain." And Heath Ledger as one of the Bob Dylans in "I'm Not There," in sunglasses and a dour expression, one of the Bob Dylans who were impossible to be around.
A sneak peek of Heath Ledger from this summer's upcoming Batman movie as the Joker, fully unhinged, erasing in a few seconds any ownership Jack Nicholson may have claimed to that role. Working backward now, here is Heath Ledger in period pieces, wooing women or fighting in the Revolution. Heath Ledger in a knighthood fantasy, with swords. Heath Ledger as the unhappy prison guard in "Monster's Ball" who shoots himself in front of his father . . .
Edit that, rewind, start again @ A Rough-Edged Actor Who Carved An Indelible Image
Also:
- Heath Ledger, Actor, Is Found Dead at 28
New York Times - New Yorkers 'Anguished' Over Death of Heath Ledger
FOXNews - Gifted actor bucked conventional Hollywood wisdom
Boston Herald, United States - Heath Ledger left an intense legacy
Boston Globe, United States - - Grim end to a promising career
Chicago Tribune, United States - Australian PM leads Ledger tributes
The Press Association - - Ledger loved life: family
The Age, Australia -
- Ledger Family Says His Death Accidental
The Associated Press
Brokeback Mountain Star Heath Ledger Is Found Dead
The actor Heath Ledger was found dead this afternoon in an apartment in Manhattan owned by the actress Mary-Kate Olsen, according to the New York City police. Mr. Ledger was 28. He is seen at left as Ennis del Mar in Brokeback Mountian. At 3:31 p.m., a masseuse arrived at Apartment 5A in the building, at 421 Broome Street in SoHo, for an appointment with Mr. Ledger, the police said. The masseuse was let in to the home by a housekeeper, who then knocked on the door of Mr. Ledger’s bedroom. When no one answered, the housekeeper and the masseuse opened the bedroom and found Mr. Ledger unconscious. They shook him, but he did not respond. They immediately called the authorities.
The police said they did not suspect foul play. Officials said pills were found near the body.
Mr. Ledger, a native of Perth, Australia, won acclaim for his role as a co-star in “Brokeback Mountain”, a 2005 film. The film, based on a short story by Annie Proulx about two cowboys who fall in love, won critical acclaim. Reviewing the film in The New York Times, the critic Stephen Holden wrote, “Mr. Ledger magically and mysteriously disappears beneath the skin of his lean, sinewy character. It is a great screen performance, as good as the best of Marlon Brando and Sean Penn.” See Actor Heath Ledger Is Found Dead@ New York Times, United States
Also:
- Guest Book @ SF Chroinicle