Dem. AG Race: Dana Nessel Wins Nomination

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COVER Poetry, Photography 18 Rocking Perceptions 20 Indigo Girls’ Emily Saliers Talks Empathy, NEWS: Creativity and New Projects 4 Dem. AG Race: Dana Nessel Wins Nomination 22 Happenings 4 Robust LGBTQIA Caucus 28 Classifieds Sets Records at MI Dem 29 Puzzle and Crossword Convention 6 Meet Mike Flores 6 Affirmations Spring Bash Event Raises Over $165K COMMUNITY for Community Center CONNECTIONS 8 Army Chief of Staff 30 WSU Hosts Rainbow Undermines DOD Report MICHIGAN NEWS EVENTS HAPPENINGS Graduation, Awards and Against Transgender Homecoming Service 31 Benton Harbor 12 Pompeo Grilled Over OutCenter Seeks Anti-LGBT Statements Volunteers for Teen Pride During Confirmation Prom Hearing 31 Concise Writing Theme 12 Senate Dems Object to at 2018 Rochester Writers’ Removal of LGBT Health 6 Affirmations Raises Spring Conference Data from Gov’t Website over $165,000 22 Best of LGBT Events OPINION NATIONAL NEWS 10 Parting Glances COOL CITIES: 10 Viewpoint LANSING 12 Pompeo 12 Dems Object 11 Creep of the Week 26 Federal Grants Available to Crime Victims, Public, Grilled over to Removal of LIFE Nonprofit Groups 14 Trans Couple Tying the 26 Hepatits A Helpline 4 LGBTQ&A Dems Break Anti-gay LGBT Health Knot Hopes to Increase Provides 24/7 Counsel to Visibility Fight Outbreak Records statements Data 18 Artists Celebrate Quer 27 Lansing Lugnuts Host and Trans Love Through Pride Night Baseball Game

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April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com | BTL 3 NEWS Dem. AG Race: Dana Nessel Wins Nomination Robust LGBTQA Caucus Sets Makes History as First Out Lesbian to Run for Attorney General Records at MI Dem

BY EVE KUCHARSKI Convention

Openly lesbian Michigan attorney general BY SUSAN HOROWITZ candidate Dana Nessel won the vote at the April 15 state endorsement convention at DETROIT - A treacherous ice storm Detroit’s Cobo Center. The 48-year-old and a 9 a.m. Sunday morning start time did candidate has had nearly 25 years of legal not deter over 150 people from attending experience as both a defense and prosecuting the LGTQ&A Caucus of the Michigan attorney. She is also the president and co- Democratic Party meeting April 15 at founder of Fair Michigan. Cobo Hall. Mark LaChey, the caucus’ Her opponent, Pat Miles gave a gracious chair, presided over an energetic meeting concession speech and then Dana Nessel that featured a steady stream of candidates took the stage surrounded by her family and all seeking to garner the support of the supporters, tears flowing. caucus and its members. LaChey also “I want to thank all my supporters and led a delegation of 110 people at the everyone in the state of Michigan that believed Legacy Dinner the night before, making the in me and believed in our message,” she said. LGBTQA Caucus the second largest group “What I promise you is this: I will campaign of attendees at the annual fundraiser, after my very hardest – not just on behalf of myself the Labor Caucus. and my vision for attorney general but on LaChey opened the caucus meeting by behalf of all Democratic candidates. We’re announcing that dozens of candidates wanted going to win all the way up and all the way to speak including many openly LGBTQ down the ballot. Let’s all work together to turn candidates. Michigan blue again. We can do it together!” Dana Nessel thanks her supporters as she accepts the nomination for the Democratic Attorney General candidate LGBT&A Caucus of the Michigan on Sunday at Cobo Hall. BTL Photo: Susan Horowitz Democratic Party Mark LaChey summed up how he felt about the victory succinctly when he said, “This is a momentous day for LGBTQ Dana is tenacious and is going to win in November. I’ve been to Michiganders!” Her win won her praise from other a lot of Democratic conventions before and haven’t seen a turnout like Democratic candidates as well. State Rep. “ today’s crowd. A lot of credit goes to Dana and her team for engaging Jeremy Moss who is running for Michigan state Senate said he is confident in her ability new voters in the process, which is exactly what Democrats will need to pull out a win in the upcoming November election. to be successful in 2018. I was proud to support her at the convention “Dana is tenacious and is going to win in and am excited that the rest of the party – and state – will have the November. I’ve been to a lot of Democratic LGTQ&A Caucus Chair Mark LaChey calls the conventions before and haven’t seen a turnout opportunity to vote for an openly LGBT candidate in Michigan. meeting to order at the Michigan Democratic Party Convention on Sunday. BTL Photo: Susan Horowitz like today’s crowd,” Moss said. “A lot of credit goes to Dana and her team for engaging new voters in the process, which is exactly – Jeremy Moss what Democrats will need to be successful ” “This year we have a record number of in 2018. I was proud to support her at the 20, by my current count, openly LGBT convention and am excited that the rest of the Michigan Democratic Party, which indicates seen first hand her tenacity and successes candidates running for office at all levels of party – and state — will have the opportunity she has what it takes to organize voters to win when others told her she would fail,” Smith government,” said LaChey. “That includes to vote for an openly LGBT candidate in in November,” Hoadley said. “Our community said. “Oh, and she will be the first out lesbian three statewide candidates too – Dana Nessel Michigan.” has a chance to make history and elect a elected to a statewide office. That’s something for attorney general and two openly LGBT Nessel stated that if elected in November, progressive fighter as the people’s lawyer. too!” candidates for university trustee, Sue Carter she is excited to bring a new viewpoint to the Let’s get fired up to vote!” “I’m bringing diversity to the ticket in a way at MSU and Wade Rakes at University of position of Michigan attorney general. Moss Sandi Smith is an Ann Arbor supporter who that has never existed before … I think some Michigan. And there are two openly LGBT was correct in his assessment of turnout, this stood with Nessel during work on the marriage people are excited about that,” Nessel said in State Senate candidates – Garnet Lewis on endorsement convention hosted a record- equality case DeBoer v. Snyder that made it a previous interview with Between The Lines. the western side of the state and Jeremy Moss breaking 6,700 delegates. Michigan State Rep. to the U.S. Supreme Court. She said she was in Southfield.” To read more about Nessel’s goals for the position Jon Hoadley said he believes Nessel will win “pleased” with the result. U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow made the in November as well. “She is a progressive Democrat with a of attorney general, check out BTL’s full Q&A with LGBTQ&A Caucus her first stop of the “Dana did amazing work organizing track record of taking on tough fights. I have her at pridesource.com. supporters to win the endorsement of the See next page

4 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com morning. She said our community is under Legislature. I’m proud of the work we tried attack at all levels and it is important to her to do, but we were in the minority the whole and for all other Democrats to stand up now time I was there. And you know what - I’m for fairness and equality. “This community is done being the leader of the resistance. I want under attack and it doesn’t matter if it’s from us to be the ones setting the agenda!,” she said. the county level, or the state level or the federal Dana Nessel brought her whole family – level. I’m a proud sponsor of the Equality Act. her wife and two sons – to the podium as she It doesn’t matter if it’s Betsy DeVos or Health passionately addressed the caucus. & Human Services or Jeff Sessions or who it “The is what Michigan families look is – their gut instincts are just plain wrong. like,” she said. Best known for her role in I think they are immoral. And so this is a representing the DeBoer–Rowse couple in one moment for all of us whether it is healthcare of the cases before the U.S. Supreme Court or marriage equality or equality for everyone in 2015 that guaranteed marriage equality, in the justice system ... the important thing is Nessel said that as Attorney General she will for us to be focused and know who’s side we fight hard every day to protect the rights of all are on as Democrats and whose side they LGBTQ people in Michigan. are on - whether it’s this governor and what he “LGBT issues are not just one of many has done, or the [Michigan] attorney general for me. It is part of who I am and you can who has done every awful amicus brief you rely on me to always fight to protect LGBT can imagine attacking marriage equality, to the people from discrimination, every day all affordable care act to women’s reproductive day,” she said. “Not just when it is politically rights - it doesn’t matter. We know in the end convenient.” Mark LaChey, Grace Wojcik, Jan Stevenson and Cynthia Thornton celebrate the announcement of Dana Nessel there is a line here between what we believe Elissa Slotkin is running for Congress in as the first openly lesbian candidate for Attorney General. BTL Photo: Susan Horowitz in and what they believe in.” the 8th District against incumbent Republican All three of the leading candidates for Mike Bishop. She shared an emotional story governor addressed the caucus, including about her mother who came out as a lesbian of Representatives becoming controlled by the way down the ticket because we have seen former Senate Minority Leader Gretchen late in life, but who was unable to marry her the Democrats. time and again our issues getting siphoned off Whitmer, former Detroit Health Department life partner before her death in 2011. “We talk about a blue wave – can we by the Republican majority.” Director Abdul El-Sayed and retired Ann “There is no contradiction between caring actually do a wave?” asked Hoadley as he As the meeting ended LaChey was Arbor businessman Shri Thanedar. Each one about the economy and caring about social got the crowd on their feet in a stadium-style recognized with enthusiastic applause for his pledged to champion the cause of amending issues,” said Slotkin. “And we as a party must wave. “We have to get our energy going work in building the LGBTQ&A Caucus into the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to include do better to explain that to anyone who thinks because we are going to win in 2018! We are its current strong position within the Michigan protections for LGBTQ people. that false choice exists. Because it is breaking doing the work to bring an opportunity-for-all Democratic Party. “I’m not the usual candidate for governor – I us apart and we must fight against it.” agenda. And that means we have to focus all know that. People tell me all the time, ‘Abdul Statewide candidates for Supreme Court it’s not that we disagree with what you have Megan Cavanagh and University of Michigan to say. It’s just that you are a little bit young. law professor Sam Bagenstos addressed the You’re also a little bit brown and a little bit caucus as did Jocelyn Benson who is running Moslem – how’s that gonna work out for for Secretary of State. you?’” he said jokingly. “My child identifies At one point there were so many candidates as trans. When are we going to have leadership waiting to speak that a group of over 20 that says that no longer will we allow it to be candidates for the Michigan State House came legal to discriminate against people like him. up together, led by our three openly gay state We will stand up and amend Elliott-Larsen so representatives: Jon Hoadley (D-Kalamazoo), every Michigander belongs!” he said to loud Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield) and Tim applause and cheering. Sneller (D-Flint). To flip the state house of “That fool in the White House hasn’t representatives the Democrats need to pick demoralized us – he’s energized us,” said up nine seats. Each introduced themselves Witmer. “So a lot of you know me from and said they were energized, excited and the my 14 years of fighting in the Michigan enthused about the future Michigan House

Jon Hoadley (D-Kalamazoo) addresses the LGBTQ&A Caucus with over 20 elected officials and candidates for the Michigan House of Representatives . BTL Photo: Susan Horowitz www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 5 NEWS Affirmations Spring Bash Event Raises Over $165K for Community Center

BY BTL STAFF

ffirmations’ Annual Spring Bash and always faithful volunteer” Karen themed “Celebrate Community” Dorgan, who received the Volunteer of Awas “truly amazing” this year the Year Award, which will now be named said Lilianna Reyes, the community after her. center’s interim executive director. With The Affirmations staff was recognized over 400 people in attendance, the April during the event also. They are Angela 14 event, emceed by Fox 2 Detroit News Sawyers, Finance Director; Becca Budde, Charlie Langton, was held at the MGM Education Manager; Ryan Fowler, Grand Detroit raised over $165,000 for Office and Facilities Coordinator; the community center in Ferndale. Shelly McCallister, Counseling Program Events like this help support Supervisor; Ian Unger, Youth Program Affirmations as it continues to provide Coordinator; Heather Aymer, Community numerous programs and services that Resource Coordinator; Kyle Taylor, community members rely on. Looking Development Coordinator and Katie Mike Flores: Self-Made Role Model to the future, Affirmations representatives Koch, Development Director. said they hope to expand their current “We had more sponsors this year work and grow into new and much- than any year before. I was honored to BY EVE KUCHARSKI Part of that fear stemmed also from not wanting needed programs. be part of the program to introduce and to disrupt the carefully outlined future that Flores’ “We have five amazing awards and recognize some amazing Affirmations’ ver since high school, he’s been involved father had drawn out for him. while we are so fortunate to have so many volunteers and supporters who received in volunteerism or some form of activism. “In the Latin culture we’re very patriarchal. wonderful volunteers, we are so excited to awards,” Reyes said. “We are excited EBeyond that, he’s made the professional The father sets the tone for the family and my celebrate with these amazing honorees,” more than ever to work with community jump from the automotive to the aerospace father set the tone and the expectations for our said Mike Flores, Affirmations’ interim for community during the remaining industry and back again. It’s very clear: Mike family,” Flores said. “I never remember having president during the event’s VIP reception. 2018 year.” Flores is driven. Now, at 38, his drive has led a debate with my father about any issue. He was It was at this reception that Affirmations Affirmations will host their Fall Fling, him to the position of interim president at the the authority figure and we knew that he was board members awarded individuals its 2018 autumn fundraiser, in October. Affirmations LGBTQ community center. When doing what was best for the family.” who have demonstrated longstanding The event is held inside Affirmations’ asked about what pushes him forward he was So, Flores didn’t disturb the path that was dedication to the community center and and will feature live entertainment, direct: he said it stems from his family. serving him well. When he was accepted into given their time and talent. The honorees raffles, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and “I’m a first-generation American. My dad is the University of Detroit Mercy, he also began for 2018 included Kary Moss, who desserts. For those who have not attended from El Salvador and my mom is from Nicaragua, to gain an understanding of what it meant to be received the Community Hero Award; an Affirmations fundraiser, expect an and my father had a vision of what he considered himself, and what it meant to be in marginalized Anthony Sherman, who received the Jan opportunity to see the center in action, the American dream for us,” Flores said. “For groups – for him being both Latino and gay – and Stevenson Award; Shazia Siddiqi, who welcome the beauty of the new season him, for our family to achieve the American it was at school that his streak of activism began received the Lorna Utley Award; Daniel and get to know the staff and volunteers. dream was to go to college and to enter corporate to develop. He decided that in addition to his Fulmer, who received the Charles Moyer America. That’s the path that I followed.” career, he was going to make a concerted effort For more information, visit goaffirmations. Philanthropy Award and “our dear friend And that was a path that he excelled at. From to “pay it forward.” org. an early age, Flores said that his family instilled “I personally have benefitted from education. in him a sense of awareness and gratitude for the I think education is one of the easiest ways for opportunities he was being afforded as a U.S. people to enter the middle class because my citizen. This, he said, helped him work hard at family has benefitted from education,” Flores school, do well in extracurricular activities and said. “One of the things I work on today is, ‘How put down a strong foundation for a succesful can I make sure education is accessible – when I career in business. was younger it was to Latino people – so when I Talk to Flores today and he exudes a sense of was at university we volunteered in southeastern confidence both about his background and the Detroit doing mentorship programs with La person he has become, but it wasn’t always that Comunidad, and the LGBT gay community that way. Growing up, everything was perfectly in we started, and that had educational elements place, except for one thing he couldn’t change: attached to it.” his sexuality. Eventually, however, Flores’ family caught “I tried very hard to fit in the mold that my on to the fact that something was different about father was trying to develop for me. I finally him, and in his junior year at school he was forced realized that I was gay in high school, but at to answer a direct question from his father, “Are that time, I did not feel comfortable telling my you gay?” parents because the only gay images I had were “I told him. I cried while I was telling him. very stereotypical gay images,” Flores said. “I It was very emotional because I really felt that was afraid that if I told my dad I was gay that I was about to lose my dad and my family and he would think that I would be one of those the support that he had provided to get me Lilianna Reyes, the community center’s interim executive director, welcomes guests to the Spring Big stereotypes that I saw, and one of the stereotypes Bash where over 400 people where in attendance Saturday night. BTL Photo: Eve Kucharski that he believed.” See Flores, page 16

6 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com

NEWS Army Chief of Staff Undermines DOD Report Against Transgender Service

BY CHRIS JOHNSON Gillibrand asked Milley to submit to the Senate Armed Services Committee the names of he top uniformed official in the U.S. the experts who were consulted, and Milley Army on Thursday undermined agreed. Trecommendations from Defense Milley also offered additional information Secretary James Mattis against transgender about the nature of the panel of experts Mattis military service — which led to President convened to reach his conclusions against Trump’s ban on transgender people in the transgender service. The Army chief of staff armed forces — by asserting their presence offered to provide Gillibrand the exact names has had no negative impact on unit cohesion. at a later time. But Army Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Milley “Each of the service vices, I believe, was also undercut efforts the other way in support on it,” Milley said. “There were several DOD of transgender military service by saying it’s folks. I’m pretty sure the panel was led by the “not a civil rights issue” and by asserting DOD P&R, if I remember right, the under the U.S. military has the prerogative to set secretary for personnel and readiness.” necessary standards for troops. But the last word in the exchange wasn’t Milley, along with Army Secretary Mark favorable to transgender service. Asked by Esper, made the remarks during congressional Gillibrand if the two had spoken to transgender testimony on the the posture of the Army under soldiers, they said they’ve had those exchanges, questioning from Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand but not after the recommendations were issued. (D-N.Y.), who has introduced legislation That’s when Milley pushed back by asserting against Trump’s transgender military ban. the military’s right to institute standards. Gillibrand, who cited concerns about unit “My view is that we have an Army that cohesion in the aftermath of the anti-trans Army Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Milley undermined the DOD report against transgender service. (Photo public is standards-based,” Milley said. “It has recommendations, asked the Army officials domain) always been standards-based. It will remains if transgender service — first allowed in the standards-based for medical, physical, Obama years under former Defense Secretary bathroom and shower facilities; and uniform to ensure readiness “in the light of the pall psychological, conduct, etc. And those soldiers Ashton Carter before Trump tried to ban it — and grooming standards, which have all served that’s been cast on the future of transgender or those applicants, people who want to assess had resulted in any problems. Both officials the branches well to date, risks unnecessarily soldiers,” Esper insisted they’re being treated into the Army that meet those standards, and replied it had not. adding to the challenges faced by leaders at fairly. they’re rigorous standards, if you meet those Esper, who had previously said the issue of all levels, potentially fraying unit cohesion, “We continue to treat every soldier, standards, then you’re on the team. If you transgender service “hasn’t come up” in talks and threatening good order and discipline,” transgender or not, with dignity and respect, don’t meet the standards for whatever reason, with soldiers, reported no new problems with the report says. ensure that they’re well-trained and well- then you’re not on the team. It’s that simple.” unit cohesion. Aaron Belkin, director of the San Fransico- equipped for whatever future fights,” Esper Those standards, Milley said, may mean “Nothing has percolated up to my level,” based Palm Center, said in a statement Milley’s said. “With regard to accessions, our accession certain individuals are unable to serve in the Esper said. “When I made that comment, I testimony speaks volumes about transgender folks understand that we are operating under armed forces regardless of what civil rights was questioned about if I met with soldiers and service and undermines Mattis’ conclusions. the Carter policy, if you will. We’ve had some advocates think. talked about these issues, what do they raise? “It is telling for the Army chief of staff to persons already join, transgender persons join, “This is not an issue, in my view, this is And as I said then ... young kids tend to raise acknowledge there have been ‘zero’ problems and we will continue to assess them and train not a civil rights issue,” Milley said. “This the issue in front of them at the day. It could with cohesion, discipline or morale just weeks them and treat them well in accordance with is an issue of standards and maintaining be that they’re performing all-night duty or after a DOD report, ostensibly based on that policy.” deployability and the combat effectiveness and didn’t get their paycheck, and this was just not months of research, insisted that transgender But Gillibrand expressed skepticism, saying lethality of the United States Army, and I think an issue that came up at that moment in time.” troops pose a risk to cohesion, discipline and the recommendations against transgender I speak for the other service chiefs as well.” Milley echoed the sentiment, saying in morale,” Belkin said. service “is different from treating everybody Belkin told the Blade he agrees with response to Gillibrand’s question about Although courts have enjoined the Trump with dignity and respect.” Milley that issue isn’t about civil rights, but whether transgender troops have caused a administration from enforcing its ban on In the wake of a letter from Democrats transgender service is in the best interest of problem with unit cohesion, “No. Not at all.” transgender military service, Gillibrand said seeking information on the process that led military readiness. “We have a finite number,” Milley said. the transgender military ban that Trump is Mattis to come to his recommendations “And the research as well as lessons from “We know who they are, and it is monitored seeking and the Mattis recommendations could against transgender service, Gillibrand two years of inclusive policy and 18 foreign very closely because we’re concerned about still be harmful. asked the officials about the degree to which militaries that allow transgender service is that and want to make sure that they are in fact “Transgender service members have now they had input, citing objections to the that treating everybody according to the same treated with dignity and respect and have had seen the department’s recommendation and recommendations from the American Medical standards is what’s best for readiness,” Belkin precisely zero reports of issues of cohesion, are on notice that if the policy is implemented, Association about its conclusions. said. “The problem with the Trump ban is that discipline, morale and all sorts of things.” they will get kicked out for seeking care When Gillibrand asked who represented the it is based on scientific distortions, cherry- The evaluation that transgender service or treatment for their gender dysphoria,” Army on the panel of experts Mattis convened, picked data and double standards that apply hasn’t negatively affected unit cohesion stands Gillibrand said. “I’m worried that this Milley said it was Vice Chief of the Army Gen. only to transgender troops, and no one else. in contrast to the report produced by Mattis to uncertainty will have a negative impact on James McConville. When Gillibrand asked ” justify Trump’s transgender ban, which was these individuals, but also on their units and if any medical experts were included on the This article originally appeared in the Washington made public last month by the White House. that fear of these recommendations will stop panel, Milley said he was unsure, but knew “[U]ndermining the clear sex-differentiated these soldiers from seeking care.” McConville “consulted with lots of internal Blade and is made available in partnership with lines with respect to physical fitness; berthing, Asked by Gillibrand what the Army is doing folks, medical professionals, absolutely yes.” the National LGBT Media Association.

8 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 9 Parting Glances OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER Dreams Wet and Otherwise he mind-boggling possibility of recording dreams may soon be a reality predicts “How It’s Made,” a British monthly Tscience magazine. The nanotechnology/brain scanning techniques are now such that translating neural impulses from brain neurons and retinal images to recording and screen instrumentation is almost a done deal (Nightmares anyone? Wet dreams for replay?). Question: Are I reread my dream journal the dreams of gay recently, after having neglected and lesbian persons significantly different it for years. It was fascinating, from those of straights because of variations embarrassing shock theater. And, in respective brain to be expected of an eccentric hemispheres? How about trans persons? artist like myself, wacky. No Recording dreams would likely provide wonder Freudian shrinks find answers. their couch company such fun. I once kept a dream journal. I recorded Transmissions over 50 dreams for six months, which is pretty good considering that dreams are like exotic butterflies – occasionally darksome moths – unless netted quickly they flutter back into your mental twilight zone. Vanishing forever in seconds. Here’s Your Sign (Everyone dreams. Cats, dogs, parrots, pretty-boy Pence. Dodo the Donald. Dreams occur every 90 minutes as evidenced by rapid eye movements or REMs. Up-and-down fluttering behind the eyelids.) The secret to keeping a dream journal is to remind yourself at bedtime that you will remember your dreams when awakening, and BY GWENDOLYN ANN SMITH fight day in and day out, year after year for our very have pen and paper nearby to jot down vivid and fresh details – survival, and it is heartening seeing people step up to X-rated and otherwise (if you have sleepover company, use dictation). lend a hand. You may not get back to sleep, but you’ve got something to show eing transgender in the late 2010s means you talk On the other hand – and you knew there would be for time spent in your brain’s unique answer to Disneyland. about restrooms. Indeed, it’s a topic you end up one – sometimes allies don’t quite see how their actions, I reread my dream journal recently, after having neglected it Bhaving to revisit over and over again, with what well-meaning as they may be, can make trans people for years. It was fascinating, embarrassing shock theater. And, to has been years now of attacks on public accommodations uncomfortable. This is when I go back to talking about be expected of an eccentric artist like myself, wacky. No wonder laws for transgender people. restrooms. Freudian shrinks find their couch company such fun. While we are setting renewed issues with transgender Over the last few years, I’ve seen more and more Here’s a sample. Dated July 19, 2015. Feel free to free associate rights within the current administration – and I don’t want examples of gender-neutral signage on restrooms. Much (your couch or mine). “I’m riding in a cab with two other passengers to diminish what a enormous threat that is, with attacks of it is okay, simply proclaiming that a facility is gender wearing blond wigs, none of whom speak English. We are in a foreign from all around this president’s cabinet – I do feel that neutral, or even “all gender.” Some go a step further, and country at night. I get off at the stop light. The cab driver rolls down transgender issues have become more accepted than not this is where things get dicey. the window, “You left your beaded bag, Monsignor!” I wake up (no in the court of public opinion. I’ve been shown pictures of restrooms that are labeled tip, I’m sure). My feelings are further buoyed by the recent “whatever,” often with a “half man half woman” image. Modesty precludes further dream journal entries – one including victory against Alaska’s Proposition 1, which would I’ve even seen ones that include an alien figure amongst an erotic encounter with two movie stars, an acrobat, three outfielders have prevented people from using a restroom that did the others, or one that used a mermaid and centaur pairing. and a drag queen piano tuner. not correspond with their sex assigned on their birth These are all very cute, all serving to show that the Although dreams can be crazy, they keep us from going temporarily certificate. This was rejected; making for one of the few owner of said establishment is trans supportive – and insane. If you go without sleep for more than 48 hours – say at a times transgender rights has won at the ballot box. are have problems. weekend circuit party – you can expect to experience hallucinations It’s a huge victory, and while it was members of the You see, I’m not a “whatever.” I’m not a mythological or psychosis without taking drugs. trans and larger LGBTQ community spearheading it, it creature nor do I come from beyond the stars – and by The world’s Guiness Record for going without zzzzs is 264 hours is a win that would not have happened without a lot of equating my very real need to use restroom facilities with and 11 minutes, held by a straight but really bent DJ, who never supportive allies. Before I go further, I want to make one the real of fantasy or science fiction, you end up treating thing clear: I have nothing but appreciation for people me as something strange and bizarre. See next page who stand up for trans rights as an ally. So many of us See next page 10 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com My feelings are further buoyed by the recent victory against Alaska’s Proposition 1, which would have prevented people from using a restroom that did not correspond with their sex assigned Matt Walsh BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI on their birth certificate. This was rejected; making for one of Never mind the fact that knowing t should be obvious by now that the the few times transgender rights has won at the ballot box. Creep of the Week every week is Donald how human reproduction Trump. He is a cancerous tumor on the I works is not the same thing U.S, and as a nation we desperately need a When I was a child, many others and a big battleground that transgender people Trumpectomy. as having an understanding I were brought up to “not see race,” as if are facing, I think we’d all appreciate our But, let’s not forget about all of the others this would solve the issues of racism. It allies standing up and showing up and doing who were creepy long before Trump became of human sexuality nor does was a similarly well-meaning concept to a the right thing for us all. the false idol “whatever” restroom, with similar issues. To me, it’s time that the centaurs and of the so-called it acknowledge the complex Not having to “see race” is a very mermaids go back to the land of the fae, the religious right. and often fraught relationships privileged standpoint, and means you get to aliens get beamed up, and whatever goes While the right- be willfully blind to the very real issues of away, forever. While we’re at it, let’s retire wing adoration between people that result in and systemic racism that can pervade a society. that half man / half woman info graphic of Trump It sounds good, but doesn’t solve anything. that, quite frankly, only seems to apply to a might seem are a result of that sexuality. Indeed, it may in many ways make things particular Halloween get-up and not to any hypocritical, worse. trans or non-binary identity. it’s really a of that sexuality. Especially for teenagers Saying “whatever” to issues surrounding For me, I want a restroom that says, quite match made in who are literally being yanked through the transgender people and the use of public simply, restroom. If you need an image, Matt Walsh heaven. Because stratosphere by their hormones and do not accommodations, let along putting up why not a graphic of a toilet, and avoid the right-wing yet have the maturity to deal with these cute images of extraterrestrials and fairy any convoluted examples of men, women agenda has feelings, let alone the self-control to not creatures may seem like a great way to flag and so on? always been about power and oppression, act on them. So age-appropriate discussions one’s support of transgender issues, but it Further, if you want to really show your never about morality. If having Trump as about condoms and masturbation are tells me, a transgender person, that my needs allyship, why not place a sign next to that, president allows the right-wingers to wrest literally fucking useful, not ideological. are singled out and made strange, and that stating that you support transgender people, the right to marry from lesbians and gays or “The schools want our kids to be the my use of such facilities is, nevertheless, and that they can use the bathroom that fits drive transgender men and women out of sort of people who indulge their sexual strange. their gender identity. Spell out your choices public life then Trump can screw and pay urges freely and openly, without regard to I don’t want to be strange. I just want to and reasons, and truly stand up for us. off all the porn stars in the world. Mission oppressive notions of morality and human go to the restroom in peace. We’re going to need our allies, because accomplished. dignity,” Walsh writes, apparently under the Now, again, I know that when such a sign the defeat of Proposition 1 in Alaska isn’t So conservatives can spare me the impression that public schools are veritable was put up, the owner didn’t think it would the end of troubles for trans rights. There’s moral outrage act over anything related to orgies from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. “The deviants be such an issue. I’m sure that voicing such still a long road ahead, and we’re going to sexuality. who develop these courses believe that concerns makes me seem humorless and need all the help we can get – but I ask you And yet on April 23 conservatives want hedonism is the path to fulfillment.” shrill. I get it. At the same time, shouldn’t to listen, learn and we can all do a better job parents to keep their kids out of school This is a pretty standard conservative part of being an ally be concerned with for every trans person out there. in order to protest sex education for fear take on sex ed: that sex should be divorced listening to those who you are seeking to that the kids might learn that gay people from pleasure and should only be used to ally with, and making sure that your efforts Gwen Smith’s restroom is tiki themed. You’ll find exist and that gender can be expressed in make babies. Of course, we also don’t want don’t, ahem, alienate anyone in the process? teenagers having babies, which is kinda her at gwensmith.com. various ways. This may feel like such a small issue, and “Parents across the country will be why sex ed is important. Because teenagers maybe it is – but with restrooms being such keeping their children home from school are having sex. Whether they know how to to protest the insane, pornographic, morally protect themselves or not. debased propaganda that passes for ‘sex Sex is not a product of Satan, as Walsh ed’ these days,” wrote Matt Walsh for The implies. It’s a healthy, normal part of human Daily Wire. “It’s about time that parents life that way too many people have hang- ® choice but to be flung. It was my dream. Get Parting Glances took a stand against this madness.” ups about because of the kind of senseless with it. He did. It was mind-blowing, though Continued from p. 10 Walsh, a conservative writer and self- shame promoted by folks like Walsh. we haven’t spoken since). described “extremist,” presents a novel “My only problem with the [April 23] fully recovered from nonstop lack of REMs. It’s a fact. More lesbians dream of U-Hauls approach to sex-ed that will work perfectly sit-out is that it’s too short,” Walsh writes. Of all the sweet dreams I’ve had, none than do gay men. More gay men dream of once robots take over the world. “It should be permanent. But this is a good compares to a lucid dream. It’s a real mind basket weaving. Neither dream of elephants “Sex should be a subject covered in first step.” trip, and, for the 60 seconds or so that it lasts, in their respective bedroom. Log Cabin science class, and it should go no further than This idea that public education is a it’s life (and sometimes love) in the fifth Republicans, the exception. simply explaining how human reproduction finishing school for sexual deviance is Dimension. No question about it: the mind And, as Freud might have said, “Sometimes works,” he writes. “All of the rest of this damaging not only to children, but also has a mind of its own. a cigar is just a cigar. A cucumber, just a — the lessons on ‘gender identity,’ the free to their parents and their communities as Lucid Dreams, like dreaming in color, cucumber.” condoms, the discussion of masturbation conservatives with the backing of Betsy are said by psychologists to be indices of Charles Alexander is prolific both as a BTL and oral sex — is ideological.” DeVos work to tear down this pillar of reasonably high intelligence (smile). Never mind the fact that knowing how American life and democracy. So yes, You can fly, touch your “solid” columnist (700-plus columns) and as a well- human reproduction works is not the same parents should be aware that mythical sex- surroundings and ask questions of dream known LGBT community artist (1000 Face thing as having an understanding of human ed horror tales are being used to promote people (like being awake, you may not get Book images). He is a Spirit of Detroit Award sexuality nor does it acknowledge the the destruction of their kids’ schools. And intelligent answers). You can have a sexual recipient and an Affirmations LGBT CENTER complex and often fraught relationships they should absolutely take a stand against fling (I encountered one dream partner who, Jan Stevenson awardee. Connect with him at between people that result in and are a result this madness. when refusing to fling, was told he had no [email protected]. www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 11 NEWS Pompeo Grilled Over Anti-LGBT Statements During Confirmation Hearing

BY MICHAEL K. LAVERS with respect,” Pompeo told Shaheen. “I U.S. Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), who chairs promise I will do that as secretary of state.” the committee, on Thursday said he “avidly” ike Pompeo on Thursday during Pompeo: State Department workforce ‘must supports Pompeo’s nomination. U.S. Sen. his confirmation hearing to become be diverse’ Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) in a statement Mthe next secretary of state faced The hearing took place against the backdrop announced his opposition to Pompeo, citing questions about his previous anti-LGBT of increasing concern over whether Trump his positions on a host of issues that include statements. will fire Deputy U.S. Attorney General Rod the deal with Iran over its nuclear program Pompeo reaffirmed his opposition to Rosenstein and/or special counsel Robert and torture. marriage rights for same-sex couples when Mueller who are investigating whether his “He has shown himself to be anti-equality U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) asked about Mike Pompeo campaign had any ties to Russia’s interference and anti-Muslim, and quick to limit access to a 2015 speech in which he cited a prayer with the 2016 election. Trump in the coming reproductive health care and deny the pressing from an anti-gay preacher that described days is also expected to potentially authorize issue of climate change,” notes Van Hollen the Family Research Council, which the homosexuality as a “perversion” and an a military strike against Syria after President in his statement. “For all of these reasons, I Southern Poverty Law Center has classified “alternative lifestyle.” Pompeo also did not Bashar al-Assad’s regime used chemical cannot support his nomination as secretary as a hate group. directly answer Booker’s question about weapons to attack a one-time rebel stronghold of state.” The Human Rights Campaign and Lambda whether he thinks “being gay is a perversion.” outside of the country’s capital of Damascus. U.S. Reps. David Cicilline (D-R.I.), Mark Legal are among the dozens of LGBT and “My respect for every individual, regardless Trump in the coming weeks is also expected Takano (D-Calif.) and Dina Titus (D-Nev.) and civil rights organizations that have come out of their sexual orientation, is the same,” to meet with North Korean President Kim U.S. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) against Pompeo’s nomination because of his Pompeo told Booker and other members of the Jong-un, who is under pressure to end his are among the members of the U.S. House of previous statements against homosexuality, Senate Foreign Relations Committee. country’s nuclear weapons program. Representatives on Wednesday who signed marriage rights for same-sex couples, Muslims President Trump last month nominated “If we do not lead for democracy, for a letter to Corker and Menendez that urges and other issues. Pompeo — who is the current CIA director prosperity, for human rights around the the committee to vote against Pompeo’s “We had a terrible fellow in Kansas named — to succeed then-Secretary of State world, than who will,” said Pompeo during nomination. Fred Phelps,” Pompeo told Booker in response Rex Tillerson after he fired him. Pompeo the hearing. “We believe that Mr. Pompeo’s track record to a question about his previous statements represented Kansas’ 4th Congressional District Pompeo also told senators he would work of opposing equal rights for the lesbian, gay, against Muslims. “I called him out.” from 2011-2017. to bolster morale at the State Department and bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) Pompeo told Booker that he treated married Pompeo opposed the repeal of “Don’t Ask, seek to fill positions that went unfilled during community, and his support for the use of gay couples at the CIA “with the exact same Don’t Tell.” He also co-sponsored a bill in Tillerson’s tenure. torture, which is a tactic often used against set of rights.” Pompeo also said to U.S. Sen. the U.S. House of Representatives that would “I believe deeply the State Department’s LGBTI and other vulnerable communities, Jeanne Shaheen that he has “honored and have allowed states to refuse to recognize the workforce must be diverse,” he said. should disqualify him from consideration valued every CIA officer, regardless” of their marriages of gays and lesbians. Van Hollen among lawmakers who oppose for the position of secretary of state,” reads sexual orientation, race, religion, etc. Pompeo also has long-standing ties with nomination the letter. “I treat each and everyone of our officers Senate Dems Object to Removal of LGBT Health Data from Gov’t Websites

BY CHRIS JOHNSON suffer disproportionately from of a wide range inaccessible from the FCSM website? What of health conditions and disparities due to federal departments were involved in making group of 17 Senate Democrats led societal stigma and discrimination.” this decision? by Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) have According to Politico, HHS said the pages 6. Why was the FCSM website relocated Aexpressed “serious concerns” with the and links, some of which were first posted in from the OMB website to the National Center Trump administration about the removal of 2012, were taken down as part of a routine for Education Statistics within the Department LGBT health data from government websites update. However, the Sunlight Foundation, of Education website? and are calling for the restoration of the a government accountability non-profit, 7. Will the information on sexual information. determined existing health topic pages do not orientation and gender identity data collection In a letter to the White House dated April appear to have been updated with new material Tammy Baldwin from the former FCSM site be made available 12, the lawmakers decried the recently reported and the now-missing lesbian and bisexual on the new website within the National Center removal of information on LGBT health data health content wasn’t integrated elsewhere. 2. What plans do you have to communicate for Education Statistics? If so, when? from the Department of Health & Human The removal of LGBT information these changes to site users and the public? Services website for the Office of Women’s from U.S. government websites has been a 3. Were these actions taken in consultation In addition to seeking answers to these Health as well as and the removal of LGBT consistent theme over the course of the Trump with HHS stakeholders and partners? If so, questions, the senators urge the White House population-based data reports from the Federal administration. As the Washington Blade has with whom, and what feedback did they to restore the LGBT health data to the websites. Committee of Statistical Methodology website previous reported, LGBT information on U.S. provide? “You have repeatedly broken your for the Office of Management & Budget. government websites found during the Obama 4. It was reported by HHS that the OWH campaign promises to support and protect “We are troubled by these recent actions, years was removed the White House and Small pages were removed as part of a routine the LGBT community, and this latest assault which, coupled with other actions your Business Administration websites. update. However, existing health topic pages on a vulnerable population could further administration has taken to restrict information The senators pose seven questions to the do not appear to be updated, and the missing compromise the health of more than ten million for LGBT people, reveal a pattern of White House on the removal of LGBT health content has not been integrated into other LGBT people,” the senators conclude. “We are censorship that fosters discrimination and data from the HHS and OMB websites. areas of the site, as reported by an HHS concerned that you are putting politics ahead undermines access to evidence-based health spokesperson. What efforts are being made to of science and access to evidence-based health care resources that aid millions across the 1. Why did HHS elect to remove or update the materials, and on what date will this care that is critical for millions, and so we call country,” the senators write. “These actions change the LGBT resources on the OWH information in its entirety be available again on you to reverse course to ensure that our could seriously compromise the health of website? Why did these changes occur without on the OWH website? federal programs serve the needs of all people.” LGBT individuals, who have less access to providing any notice or explanation to site 5. Why were policy papers and reports The Blade has placed a request in with the health care than the general population and users or the public? on sexual orientation and gender identity White House seeking comment on the letter. data collection efforts removed or rendered

12 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 13 Trans Couple Tying the Knot Hopes to Increase Visibility

BY JASON A. MICHAEL

ebecca and Myranda Veal met a little more than a year ago Rat a PFLAG-Genesee County meeting and it was electric. The two quickly hit it off. So much so that in a month the couple plans to get married. Rebecca said that their first meeting happened when Myranda reached out to her. “She was in the process of doing a documentary on the transgender community at the time and I was president of Transgender Connect,” There are hundreds of businesses that said Rebecca. “I had some information I advertise in BTL and welcome everyone. thought she could use and we just started going places to get footage.” Invest in equality and work with There was a comfortable chemistry businesses that support Michigan’s LGBTQ between the two from the start. community! “I was doing what I normally do in helping the trans community,” Rebecca said. “I thought her documentary would be a good idea so I’d take her to places she could get background footage. The more I was with her the more I wanted Rebecca and Myranda Veal to be with her.” Rebecca had been married before, but she wanted. My thing is Myranda gets bouquets for everybody.” never presented as her authentic self. In what Myranda wants because I’m a firm In all this preparation, though, the fact, when she presented as male she believer in ‘happy wife happy life.’” family has been incredibly helpful for was married to a cis woman for 42 years. And Myranda was thankful Rebecca the Veal’s. Rebecca’s daughter has been “That was before I started my didn’t put up a fight because of the social instrumental in organizing the wedding. transition,” said Rebecca. “I have three commentary their marriage makes. “Thank God for my daughter,” kids and eight grandchildren. I lost my “A wedding ceremony gives us Rebecca said. “She is making our cake, first wife in 2010 to cancer,” Rebecca visibility,” she said. “I always wanted a she is helping with floral arrangements said. “I found Myranda and she filled big wedding. I love all the flowers and and she’s the one who did the final fitting the void for me. When you lose a wife the dresses and the community.” on our dresses.” of 42 years you have quite a void. And And in classic fashion, both women Rebecca’s daughter is one of two of now with Myranda, our spirits are really will wear white. her children who will be attending. attuned to each other.” “Both of us are wearing white because “My oldest son lives in South Carolina Myranda agreed, attributing that this is our first time being married as and we don’t know if he’s going to spiritual connection to their deep bond. trans women,” said Rebecca. “The white make it or not,” Rebecca said. “My “She is like the other half of me,” was essential. Most trans women dream youngest son is going to walk me down Myranda said. about wearing that white dress growing the aisle and my daughter is one of my up. Trans women are little girls growing bridesmaids.” up and we have the same feelings as little There will be a potluck dinner A Wedding to Remember [cis] girls.” following the ceremony. Then, on July However, deep spiritual connection or The two had their final fittings just 21, the couple will host a Hawaiian luau not, planning the wedding requires a bit last week. complete with a roasted pig as their of compromise one’s other half. The two “I have a princess dress that laces up official reception. are gearing up to tying the knot on April the back,” said Myranda. “It’s sleeveless “The main reason we went with such a 23 at a meeting of Transgender Connect, and I have gloves to go with it and a big event is we wanted to provide some the social club Rebecca founded. gorgeous veil. Rebecca has a chapel visibility within the community,” said “I would have been fine with a justice length gown with a chapel-length veil. Rebecca. “We may be trans women but of the peace but Myranda wanted to have And we got these big, beautiful bouquets we’re just the same as anyone else in the a full-blown wedding,” Rebecca said. that we made up that have draping world. We can love, we can get married. “So it was planned with that thought in flowers. We had a good couple of nights We’re not always in the dark and hiding mind, wanting to give Myranda what putting together all the vases and the from people.”

14 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 15 Mike Flores is a businessman and currently the Interim President at Ferndale's Affirmations LGBTQ community center. He credits his career's success with the support his family gave him growing up.

® Flores “This is my father, Latin American, barely Continued from p. 6 speaks English at the time, and he still has that negative image of the ‘80s of what it meant to through college,” Flores said. “But, what be gay during the AIDS epidemic and all that. was remarkable about that conversation was I know that that was going through his mind.” that my father said, “I’m more upset that you But when Flores did win his father over, he weren’t comfortable enough to tell me.” Of began to flourish not only personally, but in his course, I started sobbing after that as well career. He attributes part of his confidence in (laughs). What he was telling me was that himself not only to his family but to the wise he loved me more for who I am and who I’m words of a mentor early on in his career. going to become, versus the fact that I was “I had a Latino mentor and I came out to gay.” him and he gave me the best advice ever: ‘If It certainly wasn’t an easy process for his you do a great job and you produce, no one’s family to come to terms with the fact that Flores going to care.’ He said, ‘Focus on what you was part of the LGBTQ community, but there do best, and everything else is going to fall was something that made it easier. Flores didn’t into place.’ And, let me tell you, when he gave fit into the negatively-associated stereotypes me that advice, it has helped me in focusing that his father had about homosexuality. In on what I can deliver, making sure that I can fact, he was completely different than his provide 110 percent to everything that I do – if father thought was possible. not more – and it has worked out well for me.” “That’s what most parents fear: that their kids are not going to be OK. And that was my To learn more about Mike Flores and his role dad’s biggest fear. He thought I was going to at Affirmations as interim president go to be living a very stereotypical image of what goaffirmations.org. he thought being gay meant,” Flores said.

16 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 17 Artists Celebrate Queer and Trans Love Through Poetry, Photography

BY DREW HOWARD

hrough their poetry, photography and writing, the self-identified “alien We wanted to create the Tfemme” duo Alex Jenny and Effee representation we so desperately Nelly showcase a fully-realized depiction “ of queer and transgender love in a decidedly craved, one with trans love, unique way. The couple’s blog, appropriately titled happiness and glamour. We’re “Alex & Effee,” is an outlet for the pair to really trying our best to be express their creativity via elegant photo shoots and deeply personal prose, all the open and vulnerable about while representing everyday life as queer and trans people of color in a way that moves past our relationship in different the prevailing narrative of tragedy, pain and ways and allow people to see suffering. With 1,500 followers and thousands of likes on Instagram to-date, the duo’s passion what’s possible. project is seemingly only getting started. “We wanted to create the representation we so desperately craved, one with trans love, – Alex Jenny happiness and glamour,” Jenny said. “We’re ” really trying our best to be open and vulnerable about our relationship in different ways and Originally from Grand Rapids, Alex returned allow people to see what’s possible.” to her hometown just this past week to give Alex and Effee’s photography captures the keynote speech for Grand Valley State queer and trans love – or as we should really University’s Sexual Assault Awareness Month. start calling it, love, without the qualifier - in Jenny’s speech, which centered around a fashion that’s purely romantic. “Being in the healing process in relation to trauma and front of the camera was the most natural, yet depression, was followed by a Q&A session still completely unexpected next step for me,” with students. While she wasn’t able to spend Nelly said, describing the initial stages of their as much time as she would’ve hoped on each photographic efforts. “As I was growing into question, she said the session was a sobering my womanhood, I was very much yearning to reminder of just how far she’s progressed in create, to immortalize strength and beauty.” the past several years. “It pushed us in profound ways,” Jenny “I spent time thanking everyone for being added. “Being able to go through this in that moment, because I was able to be in vulnerable process, and challenging ourselves, my hometown as someone my younger self showed us we can be glamorous and confident would’ve never imagined,” Jenny said. “I and sexy and beautiful.” came back to a place where a lot of trauma Photos uploaded to both the blog and happened ... I really wanted to emphasize that Instagram page are often coupled with in my talk.” poetry to tell a complete story. The pair’s art Looking to the future, she hopes the blog is intentionally vulnerable, Jenny said, and can help her learn what kind of LGBTQ elder provides an avenue for them to connect not (From top to bottom) Alex Jenny and Effee Nelly. The self-described “alien femme” couple hopes to bring positive she wants to be. only with their online fans but also with each awareness about queer and transgender love through their photography. Photo: Darline Rodriguez “In a few more years I’ll be an elder, because other. we don’t have many people to look up to “Our poetry is like the writing that we used because a whole generation were all wiped out “I thought this would be a shooting star type What began as more of a personal project from the AIDS epidemic,” Jenny said. “I’m to do in private and show each other in order of moment – we’ll combust and then live our has grown into a public exercise of trans to help each other be closer to another,” Jenny pushing to hold myself accountable to what own separate lives,” Jenny said. “I was telling visibility and expression, allowing the these kids need.” said. “I think that’s the major tying theme – my friends, ‘I think I love her,’ do I need to be couple to connect with members of LGBTQ really trying to present our process of trying As for Nelly, she says she dreams up a new institutionalized? I don’t understand – just met community and other artists. One of the most goal for her art “every day.” to make sense of our experiences.” her, and I feel like I see my future.” profound responses they received to the blog For Nelly, writing poetry is an outlet to “I have many dreams,” Nelly said. “I want The pair married later in 2014 following came from a father inspired to capture his to travel more to meet and collaborate with express the “hopeless romantic” side of herself their graduation from UM. Today, the couple child’s transness on camera. that eschews cookie-cutter Hollywood love. creatives we love in person. I want to explore live together in Chicago working day jobs “I absolutely love when people feel more directing full editorials where our work is “Love is absolutely where my art, especially in LGBTQ therapy and higher education courageous to give into love once they read our my poetry, takes root ... but love as in ugly- equal parts writing and visuals. I want to invite consulting research, respectively. pieces,” Nelly said. “One of our photographer my friends and families more into my creative beautiful, messy, vulnerable, raw-real, sweet, Though they’ve been together for close to friends tells me she had a father contact her sticky, earth-shattering, fire-bending, gravity- process, and even create more with them!” six years, the official Alex & Effee project to shoot his child’s high school senior picture “And sooo much more,” she added. defying, watery, wavy, wavy love.” didn’t begin until last year, and was originally because he wants to make sure his child’s Both Jenny and Nelly were first introduced an idea the two concocted as an excuse to transness is not only respected but celebrated to one another at a house party during their balance their day jobs and artistic endeavors. – my heart is full.” The full collection of Alex and Effee’s poetry, junior years at the University of Michigan. “We really felt like we weren’t investing in Jenny’s counseling job has afforded her writing and photography can be found on their Jenny describes their initial encounter as our art or poetry anymore in a serious ways,” many opportunities to speak about LGBTQ blog at alexandeffee.com or on their Instagram, “passionate, fiery and explosive.” Jenny told BTL. issues directly with community members. “alexandeffee.” 18 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 19 Caption: Courtesy of High Road Touring.

Indigo Girls’ Emily Saliers Talks Empathy, Creativity and New Projects

BY EVE KUCHARSKI You’re exactly right that over time, songs do change what they mean to you or you can ew artist are willing to take on topics experience them differently emotionally as complex as the prison industrial even though you wrote them a long, long Fcomplex, painkiller addiction and faith time ago. For instance, the song on “One – let alone one album – but the Indigo Girls Lost Day” on “Come A Long Way” that’s a certainly don’t shy away from getting to the song about a spiritual journey of mine and root of serious social issues. And, on their it’s still very fresh to me ... that happens for latest release “One Lost Day,” they tackle a lot of the older songs, but for the songs for each of these topics. After releasing 16 studio the newest album they still feel new. albums and performing for over 30 years together, the folk rock duo that is Amy Ray and Emily Saliers is set to perform at Detroit’s Are you ever surprised that a song you may MotorCity Casino Hotel on April 22. have written a long time ago becomes topical Between The Lines caught up with Saliers again with age? in-between tour stops to talk about how songs I know what you mean. I feel like a lot of change in importance over time, the struggle of times, the subject that we write about are the creative process and new projects currently things like systemic oppression, systemic in the works. racism, a long human history of conflict and war or refugees. These are really, really “One Lost Day” is your newest release, but it’s deep problems that the human race faces, a few years old now. Have you found that some and so even if the song was written 10, even of the songs on that record have changed their 20 years ago, it’s going to still be relevant meaning? today because we’re still working on those issues. We may timestamp a song by listing something specific like, for instance, Amy PERFORMING mentions Karla Faye Tucker in “Faye Tucker” so you could look at the time that Karla Faye Tucker was executed and look at APRIL 22 Sound Board the time there, but you have the same issues The Indigo Girls will be at the Sound Board at showing up in “Rise of the Black Messiah.” MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit on Sunday, April 22 Where Black inmates who were what most at 7:30 p.m. For more details about the upcoming everybody believes to be wrongly accused performance go to indigogirls.com or ticketmaster. of something they didn’t do and then put com. Tickets start at $24. See next page

20 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com in solitary confinement for decades. Just or whatever. We’ll have men fans come supreme injustice. up and explain what the music has meant to them after their sister or their wife or whomever introduced them to the music. So, Do you think that because you’re part of we definitely get feedback about how they the LGBTQ community you’re more able to have appreciated what the music has brought empathize with social justice issues? Does that to them in a way that maybe they didn’t think inform your creative process? about or experience before. Yeah, there’s no doubt about it. I definitely know what it feels like to feel ostracized, to Are you working on any new projects right now? have society say, “You’re not valid. You can’t What are some of the issues you’d like to focus get married.” People who are fundamentalists or conservative Christians taking their faith on more? to put harsh judgment and oppression on Yeah, there are plans! We’re releasing a full queer people. I would never compare my symphony album that we recorded with the struggle as a queer person and trying to work University of Colorado Symphony Orchestra toward acceptance and gay rights and things last April. We’ve been touring orchestras like that point by point to the Black civil across North America for several years now rights struggle in America. They’re different at least, so we’re releasing that. We’re really, struggles but they do have in common the really proud of it. Those are songs that we’ve perception of being oppressed. already had, they’re not new songs that are on that new album. But then, we’re going to London at the beginning of the new year and Have you ever had a fan come up to you and we’re going to make another Indigo Girls say you’ve changed their mind about issues? record with brand-new music. We’re going For instance helped someone deal with back with the same team that did “Come homophobia? On Now Social.” That’s one of my favorite (Laughs) You know, not specifically that. But albums in our discography and we love our I have to say that the music has opened their British cohorts. minds, opened their spirits and those kind of things. And, definitely, I have heard that Find our extended interview online at from listeners that maybe they thought that www.pridesource.com Indigo Girls was just for lesbians or women

www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 21 ‘The King & I’ at Fox Theatre May 8 A national tour of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musical “The King and I” brings it to Detroit’s Fox Theatre from May 8 through 13. The musical is directed by Tony Award-winner Bartlett Sher and has earned such praise as “beautiful” and “first-rate, sumptuous” by publications like The New York Times and New York Magazine. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. More information about the performance can be found online at 313presents.com or by calling 313-471-3200.

Credit: Courtesy of YouTube.

Grand River Ave.,Detroit. 866-782-9622. Joyful Resistance 3 p.m. Under the Collective is an all-star award winning OUTINGS soundboarddetroit.com. direction of Mighty Medicine’s DeShaun jazz ensemble comprising eight of the Snead: Salus Singers: Lansing’s Queer finest performers/composers at work Thursday, April 19 Tuesday, April 24 Quoir. The Robin Theatre, 1105 S. in jazz today. After exploring the work Lisa Lampanelli 8 p.m. Lisa Lampenelli Washington Ave.,Lansing. 989-878-1810. of John Coltrane, Horace Silver, Stevie is one of the most high-profile insult Queer Queens of Qomedy 7:30 p.m. [email protected]. therobintheatre. Wonder, and Michael Jackson, Orchestra comics. Though actually born in Carol Leifer has done it all. She is an com. Hall, 3711 Woodward Ave.,Detroit. 313- Connecticut, she is identified as a New internationally acclaimed comic, comedy 576-5111 dso.org. writer and producer. Toledo Funnybone, Yorker, where she built up her career Tuesday, May 1 Quiana Lynell at The Cube April 20, 10 on the stand-up comic circuit. Motor 6140 Levis Commons Blvd,Perrysburg,. 419-931-3474 Pophaha1@gmail. Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups p.m. Looking for a place to hang after the City Casino Sound Board, 2901 Grand 7 p.m. St. Mary’s In The Hills Episcopal Music of Miles Davis concert? Join us River Ave.,Detroit. 313-309-4700. com. Toledo.funnybone.com. QueerQueensofQomedy.com. Church, 2512 Joslyn Court,Lake Orion. for the “The Hang”—a post-concert late motorcitycasino.com. soundboarddetroit. 248-391-0663. stmarysinthehills.org. night jam session in The Cube featuring com. standwithtrans.org. live music, plus drink and food specials. Wednesday, April 25 Max M. & Marjorie S,. Fisher Music Center, Saturday, April 21 Ferndale Pride Volunteer Meetings com. ferndalepride.com. 3711 Woodward Ave.,Detroit. 313-576- Brunch at Dino’s Benefiting Ferndale Update 7 p.m. All Ferndale Pride Volunteer 5111. dso.org/cube. Pride 9:30 a.m. 10 of sales during brunch Meetings have been moved to the Geri Kulick Center, 1201 Livernois, Ferndale, MUSIC & MORE Foster Care and Adoption Orientation benefit Ferndale Pride. Dino’s Restaurant, April 21, 9 a.m. Orchards Children’s 22740 Woodward Avenue,Ferndale. MI 48220 Any questions, contact the Cold Blood April 19-21, 7:30 p.m. event chair, Julia Music at julia@ After the resounding success of Kiss & Services is seeking adults to create 248-591-3466 [email protected]. smiles in a child’s life. Orchards is looking dinoslounge.com. ferndalepride.com One event on May Cry (2014-15 season), the magnificent 9 at 7:00 p.m. One event on May 23 at creative team of Charleroi Danses in for adults from all counties to provide Draw or be Drawn 7 p.m. A free, 7:00 p.m. Geri Kulick Community Center, Belgium brings Cold Blood, a poetic temporary care in their home for children uninstructed, life drawing event for all 1201 Livernois,Ferndale. 248-544-6767. journey that is filmed before your ages 0 to 17 for Orchards Children’s ages and skill levels. Bring your art ferndalemi.gov. ferndalepride.com. very eyes. Power Center, 121 Fletcher Services, 24901 Northwestern Hwy., Suite supplies. Costumes encouraged. Blue Street,Ann Arbor. 734-647-3327. smtd. 601,Southfield. 248-258-0440. orchards. Owl Coffee Co., 1149 S Washington Friday, April 27 umich.edu. org. Ave,Lansing. 5177123420 nick@ 2nd Annual Spring Luncheon Equality Michigan Modernism Art & Antiques Brunch at Dino’s Benefiting Ferndale blueowlcoffee.net. draworbedrawn@ Pride April 21, 9:30 a.m. Come join elanna.noel. Michigan 11:30 a.m. Kalamazoo born and Show April 20-22, 6 p.m. Step out in your raised Eric Fanning- the first openly gay, best mod dress, skinny ties, and short us at Dino’s for Brunch, 10 of sales former U.S. Secretary of the Army- will boots and join Michigan’s Modernism during brunch benefit Ferndale Pride! Sunday, April 22 be Equality Michigan’s featured speaker Art & Antiques design community at Dino’s Restaurant, 22740 Woodward Tom of Finland Event in Memory of Jeff at our 2nd annual spring luncheon “The the Annual Modernism Preview Night. Avenue,Ferndale. 248-591-3466. julia@ Montgomery 6:30 p.m. Mocad, 4454 Business Case for Equality”. Frederik Be the first to see and shop from ferndalepride.com. dinoslounge.com. Woodward Ave.,Detroit. act.myngp.com. Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen RJ Spangler and John “Tbone” Paxton E. Beltline Ave., NE, Grand Rapids. 888- Road,Southfield. bobbocklus@hotmail. Indigo Girls 7:30 p.m. Indigo Girls are a Return to Ann Arbor For an Afternoon 957-1580. meijergardens.org. com. maineantiquedigest.com. Grammy Award–winning folk rock music Delight April 21, 2 p.m. RJ Spangler, American duo consisting of Amy Ray and SF Jazz Collective: The Music of Detroit drummer/bandleader, and Tbone Emily Saliers. Motor City Casino, 2901 Sunday, April 29 Miles Davis April 20, 8 p.m. The SFJAZZ Paxton, trombone/vocals, expect to cover 22 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Glass and Sculpture Exhibit at Art Leaders Gallery West Bloomfield’s Art Leaders Gallery has been taking note of Michigan’s glass and sculpture artists for almost 40 years now. Through April 30, they are exhibiting a diverse selection of hand-made glasswork, bronze sculptures and a variety of sculpture accessories. Featuring the works of artists like Andrew Madvin, Stephen Schlanser and many others, the free exhibit is showcasing Michigan’s largest collection of glass pieces. More information can be found by emailing [email protected] or by visiting artleaders.com.

a lot of musical ground on a Saturday families and individuals of all skill levels Cat Mania! A celebration of cats variety afternoon. Adding saxophonists Dan for the run and walk along Dearborn’s show! April 27, 8 p.m. Static presents Cat Bennett and Goode Wyche III, they will Gateway Dearborn’s Gateway Trail, Mania! An art and variety show featuring a be performing swing and on Zal Gaz 22051 Cherry Hill St.,Dearborn. events@ night of music, art, burlesque and vendors Grotto Club, 2070 W. Stadium Blvd., Ann metrodetroitanimals.org. famdmuttstrut. capturing the feline frenzy for a local cat Arbor. 734-663-1202 [email protected]. org. rescue called the Hater Kitty Rescue Army! rjspngler.com. zalgaz.org. 18 and Tangent Gallery, 715 E. Milwaukee Avenue,Detroit. 248-445-1277. haterkitty. Walt Matzke’s Four Pianos April 21, 7 com. p.m. This Piano Philharmonic is a stunning, ART ‘N’ AROUND magical performance featuring four Michigan Modernism Art & Antiques Epiphany Studios Spring Show and Sale exceptional pianists playing, masterfully Show April 20-21, 6 p.m. Step out in your May 4-6, 4 p.m. Epiphany Studios, 770 and in tandem, a variety of familiar best mod dress, skinny ties, and short Orchard Lake Road,Pontiac. 248-745- music from classical to Broadway, pop boots and join Michigan’s Modernism 3786. epiphanyglass.com. to Hollywood film themes on four grand Art & Antiques design community at pianos. Marygrove College Theater, 8425 the Annual Modernism Preview Night. W McNichols Rd,Detroit. 313-927-1200. Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen THEATER [email protected]. fourpianos.com. Road,Southfield. bobbocklus@hotmail. com. maineantiquedigest.com. Cold Blood April 19, 7:30 p.m. After the Draw or be Drawn April 21, 7 p.m. resounding success of Kiss & Cry (2014-15 Draw or be Drawn is a free, uninstructed, Draw or be Drawn April 21, 7 p.m. season), the magnificent creative team life drawing event for all ages and skill Draw or be Drawn is a free, uninstructed, of Charleroi Danses in Belgium brings levels. Bring your art supplies. Costumes life drawing event for all ages and skill Cold Blood, a poetic journey that is filmed encouraged. Blue Owl Coffee Co., 1149 S. levels. Bring your art supplies. Costumes before your very eyes. The performance Washington Ave.,Lansing. 517-712-3420. encouraged. Blue Owl Coffee Co., 1149 S. explores One event on April 20 at 8:00 p.m. [email protected]. blueowlcoffee. Washington Ave, Lansing. 5177123420 One event on April 21 at 8:00 p.m. Power net. [email protected]. [email protected]. blueowlcoffee. Center, 121 Fletcher St., Ann Arbor. 734- net. [email protected]. 647-3327. smtd.umich.edu. ums.org. Verdi Requiem @ Hill Auditorium April 21, 8 p.m. Verdi Requiem presented Tom of Finland Event in Memory of Jeff A2CT Presents Arcadia April 19, 7:30 by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra. Montgomery April 22, 6:30 p.m. Come for p.m. Ann Arbor Civic Theatre presents Arie Lipsky, Music Director & Conductor, the Cocktails, Stay for the Exhibit … then Arcadia by Tom Stoppard. In an English featuring Indra Thomas, Susan Platts, Sean watch the funds rise in memory of Jeff country house in 1809, Thomasina asks Panikkar, Gary Relyea and the UMS Choral Montgomery,our co-founder and one of the her tutor Septimus some uncomfortably Union. pre-concert lecture: 7 p.m. most influential LGBT activists in Michigan history. Raise a glass in Mocad, 4454 Murray Perahia, Piano April 22, 4 p.m. Woodward Ave.,Detroit. See Calendar, page 24 “His sound can be pure gold, and he voices chords with a clarity that you have to hear to believe.” Murray Perahia’s place in the Ann Arbor Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave.,Ann Arbor. ums.org. Kygo at Masonic Temple May 3, 6:30 p.m. Norwegian born, Kygo, is slated to perform at Detroit’s Masonic Temple. Today, Kygo has been nominated for over 30 music industry awards and has won 10. See our website for more information. Detroit Masonic Temple, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., #f100,Detroit. 800-854-2196. templedetroit.com. Fort Street Chorale presents Mozart Requiem Sunday May 6, 3 p.m. The Fort Street Chorale and Chamber Orchestra present Mozart’s beloved Requiem Sunday, May 6 at 3 p.m. in Detroit’s historic Fort Street Presbyterian Church, under the baton of renowned conductor Dr. Arianne Abela. Fort Street Presbyterian Church, 631 W. Fort St.,Detroit. 313-961-4533. [email protected]. Live Band Karaoke at Dino’s for Ferndale Pride May 11, 9:30 p.m. Another awesome Ferndale Pride event happening at Dino’s in Ferndale for Live Band Karaoke! Put on your musical shoes and come perform! Dino’s Restaurant, 22740 Woodward Ave.,Ferndale. 248-591-3466. [email protected]. dinoslounge.com. 13th Annual Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit Mutt Strut! May 12, 8 a.m. The 5K run and 2.2 mile walk is Metro Detroit’s only springtime pet-friendly run and walk! The Mutt Strut welcomes www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 23 Caroline Rose at El Club Labeled by Stereogum as an “Artist to Watch,” and lauded by Consequence of Sound as “refreshing,” Caroline Rose brings her own specific brand of sarcasm and melancholy to her latest album “LONER.” Rose will be finishing off her three-date stopover in Michigan on April 19 with a performance at El Club alongside the Go Rounds. Tickets start at $10 and more information can be found online at ticketfly.com. El Club is located at 4114 Vernor Hwy., Detroit.

® Calendar Kissing the Witch April 19-21, 8 National Theatre Live in HD: p.m. Ubiquitous Theater presents Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar May 6, Continued from p. 23 a play by Emma Donoghue. A 7 p.m. High-Definition Broadcasts from collection of familiar fairytales re- National Theatre, London. Presented in partnership with the Michigan Theater. difficult questions. Director Melissa Freilich envisioned through the feminist lens. The women unite, the patriarchy Nicholas Hytner’s production thrusts calls the play “funny, smart, and heartfelt. the audience into the street party that One event on April 20 at 8:00 p.m.One unravels and witches might kiss. Dreamland Theater, 26 N. Washington greets Caesar’s return, the congress that event on April 21 at 8:00 p.m.One event on witnesses his murder, the rally Michigan April 22 at 2:00 p.m. Arthur Miller Theatre, Street,Ypsilanti. ubiquitoustheater@ gmail.com. dreamlandtheater.com. bit.ly/ Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. 1226 Murfin Ave.,Ann Arbor. 734-764- 734-668-8397.ums.org. 2538. smtd.umich.edu. a2ct.org. kissingthewitch. Metamorphoses April 19, 8 p.m. Based on On Your Feet! at the Fisher Theatre the classic myths of Ovid, Metamorphoses May 1-13, 8 p.m. From their humble is a rarely seen theatrical marvel that beginnings in Cuba, Emilio and Gloria unfolds in and around a giant pool of water. Estefan came to America and broke Contact for ticket pricing Baldwin Theatre, through all barriers to become a crossover 415 S. Lafayette,Royal Oak. 248-541-8027. sensation at the very top of the pop stagecrafters.org. music world. Fisher Theatre, 3011 W. Grand Blvd.,Detroit. 313-872-1000. broadwayindetroit.com.

24 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com

Federal Grants Available to Crime Victims, Public, Nonprofit Groups

he Michigan Department of Health and of domestic violence and other allegations of Human Services (MDHHS) announced parental misconduct. Ton April 12 that local organizations Questions about the RFP for supervised across the state will be able to apply for $3.75 visitation and safe exchange programs can be million in federal grants to provide services emailed to MDHHS-CVSC-VOCA-GRANTS@ for supervised visitation and safe exchange michigan.gov and must be submitted by Friday, programs. April 20 by 5 p.m. The deadline for proposals is The MDHHS Division of Victim Services Thursday, May 10 by 3 p.m. has posted its second of five Requests for The remaining three RFPs will be available Proposals (RFPs) for Victims of Crime Act in April and May and will focus on sexual (VOCA) funding. The division is accepting assault services, tribal victim services and proposals from organizations that would expand children’s advocacy center development. and enhance their existing supervised visitation Applicant agencies must be public or non-profit and safe exchange service for crime victims. organizations – including faith-based entities MDHHS will award three- to five-year U.S. and American Indian tribes – that provide Department of Justice grants of $50,000 to direct services to crime victims. The purpose of $750,000. the funding is to expand and enhance services Supervised visitation and safe exchange to victims of crime, such as responding to the programs provide parents who may present immediate needs of crime victims, reducing a risk to their children or to another parent psychological consequences of victimization the opportunity to have parent-child contact and helping restore victims’ sense of dignity monitored by an appropriate third party. and self-esteem. Visitation centers have begun to emerge as For more information about Michigan’s Division of a service for some families engaged in child custody disputes and for families with histories Victim Services, visit Michigan.gov/crimevictims.

Hepatitis A Helpline Provides 24/7 Counsel to Fight Outbreak he Michigan Department of Health and cases reported than we would expect to see Human Services (MDHHS) and Henry for an entire year. Local health departments, TFord Hospital in Detroit have teamed hospitals, urgent cares and primary care clinics up for a provider helpline to assist healthcare need access to the latest information to help providers with questions about hepatitis A. them with their patients and stop the spread The helpline is staffed by infectious disease of this disease.” specialists and is available 24/7. The Hepatitis A Provider Helpline is not “With more than 800 cases of hepatitis A intended for the general public. Patients are reported in Michigan during this outbreak, it is advised to consult with their physician or local far from over,” said Dr. Eden Wells, MDHHS health department with their questions. chief medical executive. “During the first The helpline provides a valuable service three months of 2018, there have been more for disease prevention and mitigating new cases for healthcare providers and can answer questions regarding: Hepatitis A treatment Identifying high-risk groups Hepatitis A vaccination Hepatitis A blood testing “The Hepatitis A provider helpline is a valuable resource for health care professionals across the state,” said Norman Markowitz, M.D., a Henry Ford infectious diseases physician. “Our team can provide the latest best practices for preventing and limiting the spread of hepatitis A in our communities.”

There are two ways for providers to get in touch with the Hepatitis A Provider Helpline. For urgent questions, providers should call 313-575-0332 to be connected with an infectious disease specialist at Henry Ford for immediate answers 24/7. Non-urgent questions can be submitted online at Henryford.com/HepAConsult.

26 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Lansing Lugnuts Host Pride Night Baseball Game

BY BTL STAFF “LGBTQ groups and organizations will be at the game providing information on how to or sports fans all across the U.S., spring join and get involved with their organizations,” just isn’t the same without the start of Higgins said. Fbaseball season. The Lansing Lugnuts In addition, this first-ever event is encouraging baseball team recognizes this and wants to other local LGBTQ organizations to reach out make a stand for an inclusive season for all its if they would be interested in doing community fans, so on Friday, May 18, fans are invited outreach at the event. for Pride Night. “This is the Lugnuts very first Pride Night and The game against the Bowling Green Hot we are so proud to be hosting,” Higgins said. Rods will go as planned, but the LanSINGout “The Lugnuts want to provide a fun, friendly Gay Men’s Chorus will lead the national anthem and inclusive atmosphere to all fans.” as well as the seventh inning stretch. Lansing Lugnuts Manager of Fan Engagement Mikaela Tickets start at $8 and more information can be Higgins said that the game will be unique for found by following this link: gaybe.am/Aw. Interested another reason as well. LGBTQ organizations should reach out to mhiggins@

Cool Cities Lansing YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET Pinpoint your ad dollars where they will do the most good . . . Advertise in the next Cool Cities TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200

www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 27 28 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com quip 64 Tubbies’ prefix 24 Noel but not Coward 27 More of the end 65 Harlan Greene’s “What 25 “Take ___ leave it!” of the quip the ___ Remember” 26 Playfully insulted with 32 Really queer 66 The brainy bunch wry humor? 33 Phallic fish 67 Fruit-flavored ice 28 Alanis, who played a 34 Overwhelm with cream maker doctor on “Weeds” sweetness 29 Russian river 35 Boobs Down 30 “___ Get a Witness” 40 “Atlas Shrugged” (Marvin Gaye) author Ayn 1 Nickname for Streisand 31 David ___ Pierce 41 Smith of 2 Iowa State city 35 Pose for Diana Davies “Dawson’s Creek” 3 Madeline of “Young 36 Example Frankenstein” 42 Peruvian friends 37 Kate, who portrayed of Maya Angelou? 4 Shooters from the land Betsy in the SNL skit of the cut 43 “Would ___ to 38 O’Keeffe and Bonheur 5 Chaney of silent films you?” 39 Ga., once 6 McArdle once of 44 Layers over 45 Milk, so to speak “Annie” fame Scarlet’s petticoats? 46 Abe Lincoln’s boy 47 Some of them 7 Egyptian lake namesake 47 Sarah Paulson’s Emmy are gray for playing Marcia Clark, 8 The NCAA Trojans 50 What a man may e.g. 9 Served perfectly, to be made of, in Oz 48 LGBT rights activist Educating Betsy Mauresmo 51 Theater whisper O’Donnell 10 _Peter Pan_ pooch 55 End of the end of 49 Kane in “All My Q Puzzle 16 End of an SNL quip: “I the quip 11 Acceptance on the Children” street, in slang may not be very good on 56 Offspring of a queen 52 Covered with vines camera, but ___” 12 “___ On Down the Across 57 Betsy, who was 53 Say hello to her on 18 IRS data spoofed in the SNL quip Road” 1 Scott of “American Broadway 19 Actor Robert and 58 Words before were 14 Places for commercial Beauty” 54 Rob of “Melrose Place” family 59 Dr. Weaver portrayer intercourse 7 Subtle difference 59 Suffix with homoerotic 20 South Beach’s Laura 15 Kind of blitz 13 Wonder Woman’s or sex Miami-___ County 61 Pinball wizard foul 17 Lang. of Queen Esther people 60 Where you work in the 21 Lesbians in training, 62 “Evita” lyricist Tim 21 Bridal bio word navy 15 Drag queen’s e.g. 22 Sch. for Rev. Spahr application for lids 63 Bernstein manuscript, 23 More of the end of the e.g. 23 Make fun of

www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 29 COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS WSU Hosts Rainbow Graduation, Awards and Homecoming

BY BTL STAFF cord that can also be worn at the main University Commencement events.” or many LGBTQ students, being part And although Rainbow graduation is not of that community can at times seem a replacement to the regularly scheduled like a hindrance to one’s professional commencement at WSU, it’s a positive and F inclusive addition. life due to stigma or prejudice. However, for the LGBTQ students at Wayne State “Rainbow Awards celebrate students, University, it’s a part of their identity that faculty and staff who have been honored they can celebrate and even include as part with scholarships and awards related to of their graduation attire. This is because gender, sexuality and the GLBTQ community. WSU is offering three events: Rainbow Recognized award winners do not need to graduation, Awards and Homecoming that be graduating students,” said the website. can help students feel proud of their academic “Rainbow Homecoming is an opportunity accomplishments while celebrating what for GLBTQIA alumni of WSU to return to makes them unique. All three of these events campus. Alums can help celebrate our current will be held on May 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. students and 2018 graduates, can learn more “Rainbow Graduation is a special event that about campus climate and developments, and is open to all graduating WSU undergraduate, can network with old and new friends.” graduate and professional school students,” More information about the event can be found by said the WSU website. “All graduates will be contacting Tom Molina-Duarte at 313-577-2357 awarded a certificate and a rainbow graduation or by emailing [email protected].

30 BTL | April 19, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Benton Harbor OutCenter Seeks Volunteers for Teen Pride Prom

BY BTL STAFF There, teenagers can work in a safe space and concentrate on creating a prom night that utting on a prom night is no easy feat. is inclusive and open to all, instead of worrying Ensuring that there’s a great theme, about being accepted by their peers. Also, for enough food, good music and well- those teens who are unable to make the trip P to Benton Harbor, OutCenter is willing to aid made decorations can take weeks. That’s why Benton Harbor needs volunteers to help host with transportation. its upcoming 5th Annual LGBT Teen Prom. For more information about transportation and The center is hosting its second teen pride the 5th Annual Prom Prep, reach out to info@ planning session on Saturday, April 28 from outcenter.org. OutCenter is located at 132 Water 2 to 5 p.m. St., Benton Harbor. outcenter.org. 269-925-8330. Concise Writing Theme at 2018 Rochester Writers’ Spring Conference BY BTL STAFF benefit from learning to choose the best words to tell a story.” “The Concise Writer” is the theme for Breakout sessions will offer writers Rochester Writers’ annual spring event held workshops and lectures on focused topics on Saturday, April 21, at Oakland University. such as acing agent appointments, crafting Short stories, poems and memoirs, as well as submission emails, and marketing a message powerful first paragraphs, winning contests to grow an author platform. In addition, and effective marketing will be featured at this event for writers of all levels and ages. Cyle Young and Bethany Morehead from Lev Raphael, presenter and Keynote the Hartline Literary Agency will be Speaker, will be focusing on writing short setting appointments with authors seeking stories and the value of writing across representation. multiple genres with his “Writing Without The conference begins at 9 a.m. in the Borders” presentation. The athor of 25 books, Raphael currently teaches creative Oakland Center at Oakland University. writing at Michigan State University. His Registration includes refreshments, lunch and most recent book, “Writer’s Block is Bunk,” all nine presentations. Attendees may select is for writers at all stages in their careers. the presentations most interesting to them. “Knowing how to create a concise and Registration is going on now. The advance rate is effective message is important,” said Michael Dwyer, organizer and founder of $125, with an at the door rate of $150. A full list the event. “Many forms of writing require of speaker biographies and their presentations the attention to brevity, and all writers can are posted at RochesterWriters.com.

www.PrideSource.com April 19, 2018 | BTL 31