Vol. 16 • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 The www.therainbowtimesnews.com free! The RYour LGBTQainbow News in MA, RI, North Central Times CT & Southern VT Your LGBTQ News in MA, RI, North Central CT & Southern VT Rainbow Times K linko & I ndrani Photo: Markus The Toni Braxton’s strong Pulse p10 RYour LGBTQainbow News in MA, RI, North Central Times CT & Southern VT

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RYour LGBTQainbow News in MA, RI, North Central Times CT & Southern VT NOHO PRIDE SUCCESs! Photos And Story p20 Photo: bill berggren

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dj paulo Brings The Bang To Epic Saturdays At HOB Boston pB14  • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com United in Pride: A collaborative community effort By: Gricel M. Ocasio/TRT Publisher celebrate that we continue to work towards the The Controversial Couch ride is a time to share the com- rights of other members of the LGBT commu- Lie back and listen. Then get up and do something! pany of our community. This nity. I am proud of last week’s Anti-Bullying By: Suzan Ambrose*/TRT Columnist they were asked “very intrusive, Pcommunity comes in many fla- Bill that was sent to Governor Patrick’s office an you imagine a test that de- sexual questions,” including what vors, colors, and with much diversity. (and hopefully he has signed by now), which fined how gay you were? Or their sexual interests and prefer- But, Pride is not the only time when the House passed by a vote of 159-0 and the how butch? ences were. Exactly what were Senate by a vote of 38-0. I am grateful that I no C we should cherish the company of our Like a scale from one to ten, with they asked? “Do you listen to Judy other members of our community and longer live in the south, where same-sex adop- the different shades of gay, like hues in a Ben- Garland when stringing the Christmas tree allies. That should happen each and tion is still illegal in many states and where gay jamin Moore paint store. “Oh, just a bit more lights? Do you only do it doggie style? Have every day. By taking time to talk to marriage and equality are denied. pink in it, then you’ll be just the right tint of gay, you watched La Cage aux Folles more than 5 someone you do not know, or inquir- I want to thank everyone who supported the darlin’!” times?” I mean, what would be the best way ing about other people’s lives, we show events that took place this past weekend (NoHo Imagine, a (Very Tepid) gay #1 could be, to prove you’re gay? OK, I know the answer that we care, that we are not ignorant, Pride, the Dyke March, and the many dances say, “Only had thoughts of experimenting in to that. But was that the defining criteria, one and that we are willing to be open to and after parties), which showed a united com- Publisher high school,” while an (Extraordinary) gay may ask? We’re not talking a Hollywood couch the things that we are not that familiar munity that continues to strive for a sense of be- #10 might be “300+ notches over the bedpost” here. with. All communities deal with dif- longing and union. We loved Pride and we hope or “Chainsaws and Toro snow blowers in the It’s an unfortunate truth that bisexuals are ferences, and we are not any different. that you enjoy this issue with our Pride cover- shed.” (No stereotyping here ... really.) discriminated against in our community, but to We are only different to those who age and photos on page 20. Let’s get together Congratulations! You’re a real gay now! actually do a litmus test for a softball league? refuse to educate themselves about hu- for the rest of the Pride Marches in Connecticut, As ironic as it may seem, it may shock you “Sorry, you’re not pink enough. NEXT!” manity and how diverse of a term that Boston, Worcester, Vermont and Rhode Island. to hear that three softball players have a law- What’s worse is that I listened to a Boston ra- is. Understanding ourselves, who we Happy Pride Season! suit against the North American Gay Amateur dio talk-show host snickering about this story on are, and others shows our Pride. Like Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA) after they were the air last week. And, although his comments someone who wrote an article for a Gricel M. Ocasio deemed “not gay enough” during the Gay Soft- were petty and yucky about gay men, I couldn’t while back said in her closing review Publisher ball World Series, after which their league dis- help but think someone gave him plenty of am- of a trans film: “Nature prides itself in *Gricel M. Ocasio is the co-founder, co-own- banded. The plaintiffs claim NAGAAA (now munition to rant about. diversity, why can’t we?” er and Publisher of The Rainbow Times. She is that’s a mouthful) violated Washington state His biggest question was: Why is there a gay At Pride, we can proudly celebrate a graduate of Temple University and has been law during the 2008 Gay World Series Softball (specific) men’s softball league? How could that we live in Masachusetts and that From the the From in the journalism and publishing field for almost in Seattle by enforcing their own rule that each you tell, he wanted know. It wasn’t as if hetero we have the rights and freedom to 20 years. You can reach her at: publisher@ team in the tournament must have no more than teams asked their teammates if they were all marry, a commodity that the majority of gay therainbowtimesnews.com. two heterosexual players on the roster. straight, he said. What was gay softball exactly, people around the country do not have. We can Ok, let me just process this out loud: not gay a different kind of game? He asked these with enough? Yes, that’s right. The three men, who grotesque innuendo to “pitching” and “catch- consider themselves bisexual, were called on ing.” Of course, he was looking to provoke lis- Rampant homophobia and transphobia: the carpet about their sexuality and interrogat- teners to call in, but his questioning kept shoving Queer immigrants beware profiling law! ed. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, See Test on page 8 By: Jason Lydon/TRT Opinion Writer those queer and n Friday, April 28 the Gover- transgender im- Letters to the Editor nor of Arizona signed into law migrants who The Rainbow Times one of the most racist pieces come to the Dear Rainbow Times, 351 Pleasant St., #322 O Northampton, MA 01060 of legislation to be passed in decades. United States I was excited to see your publication at This law makes racial profiling legal thinking they the Worcester Public Library and even more www.therainbowtimesmass.com and mandated. If someone is even can find a safer excited to bring it home to read. I really en- [email protected] suspected of being an undocumented environment joyed reading a recent copy of The Rainbow [email protected] immigrant the police are allowed to that will not Times—it’s well written, informative, and [email protected] demand copies of their papers vali- c r i m i n a l i z e entertaining. Congratulations on a success- Phone: 413.282.8881, dating their right to be in the state. their identity. Jason Lydon ful publication! 617.444.9618 or 617.438.4364 Outrage and organizing are the only But, laws like I’m happy that The Rainbow Times has Fax: 206.203.0436

Opinion appropriate response to the passage of the one in Arizona and the rampant homophobia found its way to Worcester—Worcester this law. and transphobia of our culture creates violent needs a publication such as The Rainbow Publisher Columnists Why should queers care about this legisla- experiences for many of those seeking sanctu- Times. Keep up the great work. I commend Gricel M. Ocasio Suzan Ambrose tion? Firstly, there are queer immigrants. This ary in the United States. you on your efforts. Editor-In-Chief Paul P. Jesep law will hurt our community because we are im- Secondly, as the signs at many immigrant ral- Sincerely, Nicole Lashomb Deja N. Greenlaw migrants and immigrants are us. We also know lies express clearly, “We didn’t cross the bor- —G. Rich, Worcester, MA Sales Manager Tetty Gorfine J.M. Sorrell that queer and transgender individuals who are der, the border crossed us!” Just as queer people Bill Berggren Lorelei Erisis targeted by the Immigration and Customs En- are regularly left out of history and our struggles Dear Editor, Distribution Manager forcement, ICE, are regularly sexually assaulted go without understanding, the same is true for What a great feature on you and the pub- Reporters SJ Seymour Lisa A. Eramo and violated while in ICE detention. There are lisher in the Northampton Pride Guide. The Sales Associates See Profiling on page 3 writer did a wonderful job at capturing your Tynan Power Liz Johnson Joel Siegel personalities and the article answered many Chris Gilmore of the questions I myself have wondered Elizabeth Gormley about, and the picture was great too. It was Webmaster Lead Designer C’mon Out – Just Ask! Advice Column Jarred Johnson Jim Curran By: Tetty Gorfine*/TRT Columnist Hello BCT: nice to be able to put faces to the names. Yes, I can shed Thank you for your words. The Rainbow Times is published monthly by Hello Tetty: some light on this. I —K. Simpson, Boston, MA The Rainbow Times, LLC. TRT is affiliated with I am very confused about Transgendered am really happy people AP/Newsfinder, QSyndicate, & the National Gay are asking these kinds Dear Editor, & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. The articles people. I am trying to keep an open mind written by the writers, columnists, and correspon- and understand this experience. I thought of questions. They are I recently picked up the last edition of the Rainbow Times and was pleased to see that dents express their opinion, and do not represent the point of being transgendered is that a important and don’t the endorsement or opinion of The Rainbow Times, person does not feel right in their biologi- leave the full respon- the Northampton Pride guide was included LLC or its owners. To write letters to the editor, cal body and therefore desires to change their sibility for the answers in it. I’m writing to you because I read that please send your letters, with your name, address sex to the opposite one. Recently at a party a on trans people. You are you produced and designed the guide. Al- and phone number to: The Rainbow Times (address met someone who I thought was transition- far from the only person though I have advertised religiously in the shown above), or e-mail any comment/s to the ing from female to male. She, or should I say confused and it is great guide in years past, this is the first year that I editor at: [email protected]. All that readers can be have not, regrettably so. The guide contained submissions will be edited according to space he, looks like a man but uses a female name constraints. The Rainbow Times, LLC reserves the and her friends use female pronouns’. I am so educated in this kind of such fresh and valuable information—not to mention that it looked aesthetically appeal- right not to print any or all content, or advertise- confused. I want to give transgendered people forum. As I write, people Tetty Gorfine ments for any reason at all. TRT is not responsible respect but it seems that some of them don’t within the trans commu- ing as well. Although I did not advertise this for advertising content. To receive The Rainbow really know who they are. Do you know anything nities are exploring and figuring out gender. We year, I will the next. Times at your home via regular mail, or through about this and if so, can you shed some light. are at a time in history where this movement is Thank you, electronic delivery, please visit our website. The —Confused, BCT unfolding. Your question is on the cutting edge. —P. Tynan, Northampton, MA whole content and graphics (photos, etc.) are the sole property of The Rainbow Times, LLC and they See C’mon Out on page 14 See Letters to the Editor on page 4 cannot be reproduced at all without TRT’s consent. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 •  Project 10 East dedicated to ending homophobia By: Elizabeth Gormley/TRT Reporter Managing Director. The organization has bur- ing to everyone?’” ure with the Project. “Coming out of the closet” presents geoned, sending volunteers to schools across The Project 10 East model created by Ferreira “I’ve probably worked in fifty schools in challenges at any age, but it can be the state to dozens of schools, setting up gay/ in the 1980s still exists today. The volunteers Massachusetts, and that’s just me personally,” particularly difficult for GLBT youth. straight alliances. In 2005, Project 10 East de- sent to educate at schools maintain the same he said. “The success for Project 10, and for me Teens in the community may face ha- veloped its own GSA curriculum with month three goals, which are to provide a safe space professionally, is seeing the students be able to rassment and ridicule at an age when by month activities and issues to discuss aimed free of harassment and fear, provide an oppor- carry on the work, year after year. Once they’ve being “different” is tough. Project at helping empower GLBT youth, and ending tunity for GLBT youth to socialize and form a had the training and development work we do 10 East is a Boston-based grassroots harassment. community, and prepare students to advocate with them, it’s really a student-led initiative.” News “We coach faculty and administrators on how for themselves and their community in an effort

non-profit organization dedicated to helping create safe environments for to make the school a safer, more welcoming en- to rail against homophobia inside and outside To find out more about Project 10 East, or for youth, working within schools to edu- vironment for GLBT students and families,” of school. information on starting a gay/straight alliance, cate, promote, and sustain acceptance, Byrne said. “We often collaborate with area or- Byrne has seen progress in his five-year ten- visit www.project10east.org. growth and empowerment. ganizations. We work closely with other GLBT- Project 10 East was founded in the serving organizations in Massachusetts.” Profiling from page 2 well for the attacks on the World Trade Center Byrne started working with Project 10 East as late 1980s by Al Ferreira, a photogra- Mexicans and other peoples of Latin Ameri- towers in New York. I have heard Catholic phy teacher at Cambridge Rindge and a part-time program director in 2005 and par- Church leaders blame us for sexual abuse of ticipated in an educational role. ca. The role of the Mexican/American War Latin High School, according to the is regularly forgotten when the discussion of children. We know what it feels like to be organization’s website. Ferreira was “I [went] into the school, usually on a weekly scapegoats and we must not take part in the basis, after getting a call from a teacher, student immigration comes up. The violence of NAF- haunted by the 1987 suicide of a popu- TA, CAFTA, and other transnational trade scapegoating of others. Boston lar young man who had graduated that or administrator,” he said. “I worked with the So then, what can we do? As people in New students on starting the after-school club, the al- agreements hardly ever make it on the list of year, on his way to the college he had wanted reasons why people immigrate to the United England we can keep pressure on our own to attend. But, this student’s former girlfriend liance, coached them through leadership devel- political leaders to prevent bills such as that opment, got their name out there, and planned States. History and complex understandings of confided in Ferreira that the young man was government power are vital pieces of the con- to be passed here. We can join farm work- coming to terms with the fact that he was gay, assemblies to raise awareness about challenges that are faced by GLBT members in the school. versation about marginalized communities. ers and others in writing to Michelle Obama and felt his mother and peers would never ac- Mother’s Day messages about the importance cept him. I attended [meetings] weekly and facilitated We know the importance of this as queer and them. As it got up and running on its own, I transgender people; let us allow that knowl- of celebrating all mothers and protecting all Ferreira, closeted at the school himself, de- mothers from police violence. We can write to cided after the boy’s suicide that he would slowly took a step back and let them fly on their edge to inform our acts of solidarity and public own. Then, I took a greater step back, and usu- witness. our friends in Phoenix who are organizing the either come out or quit teaching. He attended Pride Gala on June 20th and ask them to make a speech at Harvard given by Virginia Uribe. ally maintained a relationship with the school ... Lastly (for now), immigrants are being used sometimes they would need extra help.” as scapegoats by politicians and others as the immigrant solidarity a central focus of their Uribe had founded Project 10 in 1984 at a high pride celebration. We can contact the governor school in Los Angeles, CA. It was the nation’s To create a more diversified GSA is a goal for reason for high unemployment, expensive first school-based support program for gay and Project 10’s gay/straight alliances. healthcare costs, violence in communities, and of Arizona and inform her of our sadness and lesbian students. Ferreira was inspired and be- “A school might have a really popular GSA, the rise in taxes. Not only is this scapegoat- anger. Whatever we do we must do so now gan working with area families, clergy, and fel- but maybe everyone in the GSA is white, and ing hurtful, it is completely untrue, based in and with the strength of our community. It is low teachers to start the East Coast branch of that isn’t representative of the racial diversity in lies, and created for racist fear mongering. We our responsibility to use our voices, our feet, Uribe’s organization. the school,” Byrne said. “We might ask, ‘How absolutely know what this is like. I remember our pens, our fists, and all of our resources to Today, Edward Byrne is Project 10 East’s do we diversify our group so that it’s welcom- being blamed by Pat Robertson and Jerry Fal- protect one another!  • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Faith, Family, and God – The Trinity: Walk for life in Different manifestations of the same God AIDS Project of By: Paul P. Jesep*/TRT Columnist ence from sliding into a god-like arrogance. In referring to the Tibetan mountains Ro- aith, Culture, and Science are a In art Roerich showed the oneness of hu- erich said “one feels the power of creative Southern VT holy trinity. If you’re spiritual, manity with itself, nature, and the Creator. thought.” Roerich did not limit the definition The Walk for Life, held on May 22, is a ma- but dislike organized religion Here faith and science exists in harmony. His of creative. Each person is a Creation of the jor fundraising event for the AIDS Project of F Southern VT, the parent organization of your this concept may enhance your jour- art shows a type of symbiotic relationship with Creator. Therefore, everyone is empowered to ney. If you have long ignored the natural beauty – distinct yet part of it, like a create beauty and to be part of it. The ocean, Men’s Program. The economic crisis has been question of a higher good because marriage of the heart between two souls. He mountains, the majestic maple tree are Created challenging for the organization and events like this are an important source of community of religious hypocrisy you too may portrayed wholeness – a transcendental union by the same Creator and with it humankind support. want to explore this approach. And, – of faith and science through art. should find oneness with itself and the univer- Their annual Walk for Life is also a commu- for those who embrace one of the dif- Culture, often manifested in art, is “the sal order. heart,” “reverence of Light,” “love of human- Roerich wrote that when “you have the es- nity commemoration – of those we have lost ferent manifestations of the same God and those who are still with us. Music, food, then please read on. ity,” “unity of life and beauty,” “the synthesis sential and vital combination of religion and of uplifting and sensitive attainments,” ob- beauty [then] you see that the highest sym- and remembrance are all part of this special This trinity is represented by three day. Each year, we hope to see more of the red dots arranged like a pyramid. It is served Roerich. If all the definitions of Culture bol of religion [or faith] becomes the highest are gathered and synthesized, it is idealistically guardian of beauty.” men’s community participate in the Walk. We based on an ancient design that art- hope to see you this year! ist, mystic, and philosopher Nicho- “the altar of enlightenment and constructive He said that “international ties of friend- beauty.” ship” “through creativeness” leads to a “path las Roerich (1874-1947) saw in the For more information, please contact Alex Roerich would have rejoiced had he wit- [where] mutual understanding and friendship Himalayas. He was a prolific painter at 802-254-4444 or email [email protected]. Name of God of Name with museums throughout the world nessed Leonard Bernstein conduct Beethoven’s remain steadfast.” It is why art is “sanctified.” now exhibiting his work. Some of his 9th to celebrate the Berlin Wall’s demise on It is, however, not just about “international depictions of eastern religions and Christmas Day 1989. He may have been tear- ties,” but also relationships formed in cities, Letters to the Editor from page 2 natural landscapes can be seen at the ful, as were the musicians and concert goers, towns, neighborhoods, and throughout Amer- Dear Editor, Roerich Museum in New York City had he witnessed the performance in Com- ica, especially with those who are intimidated I am an avid reader but why do you have (Roerich.org). munist North Korea of the New York Philhar- or frightened that their way of life is at risk. to publish so much about marriage equality? He believed all faiths had truths. Je- monic not long ago. Faith, Culture, and Science when joined are an There are so many other issues to be focus- sus spoke of unconditional love, the Think about foreign films, great literature extraordinarily powerful tool to combat hate, ing our energies on that are pertinent to our Buddha taught of transcendence from like Shakespeare, or music from other coun- bigotry, ignorance, and to better unite all of us. community too. I don’t even believe in mar- In the the In human suffering, etc. Incidentally, tries whether rock or classical. There is no This honors God. riage. I think it is selling out to the main- Roerich unintentionally interchanged faith litmus test to enjoy them. Sitting in a theater stream. I believe in being monogamous, with religion, though there is a distinction. watching a film or Elton John’s Lion King *Paul is an author, attorney, and a seminary but not married. Isn’t it all about religion Any time that faith or religion wanders into the you may see a commonality that brings people trained, ordained priest in greater Albany, NY. anyway? extreme it is kept in check by science – logic, together no matter their race, gender, politics, He may be reached at [email protected]. Annoyed with marriage, reason, and common sense. Faith keeps sci- religion, or sexual identity. —A. Backus, Providence, RIForestrum www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 •  Why the no-child-left-behind law – doesn’t apply to transgender children By: Half-Lady Lisa*/TRT Special mother pulled her into the bathroom, and locked she expected to. “My classmates often laughed alized I was a transgender who had lived in the In July 2008, I received a phone call the door. With anger, she used a toilet brush to and teased me; they liked to pull my hair every- neighborhood for a long time)—‘are gay people from a transgender escort, (whom I slap her face with, until she was bleeding from day, I didn’t enjoy going to school,” she said. welcome in this area?’ These divisions in our didn’t know), a few days after an article her nose; then used a small scissors to cut off her In the case of trans-genders teens, the no-child- society maintain each gender apart; resulting in ‘Cops Take Aim at Brighton Brothels: long, curved eyelashes. My friend told me that, left-behind law doesn’t apply. Parents ignore very few straight people who are familiar with or seek to shut down online sex rings’ by even today, psychologically some nights she their children’s problems—they believe that their work together with other genders. Gay men have Jessica Van Sack, appeared in the Bos- still has nightmares that her mother tried to kill child’s transgender lifestyle itself causes all the no problem hiding their gay gender when neces- ton Herald. The article, a page-and-a- her. Another friend said—she hadn’t spoken to problems; so the way to solve the problems is to sary, but trans-genders face the greatest problems News her father for over ten years; after she revealed simply keep their secret life as a trans-gender in when their lifestyle activities, (cross-dressing),

half long, focused, (unfairly), only on transgender prostitutes; including re- her transgender lifestyle, even though they were the closet. Moreover, if some problems happen in obviously reveals their true gender through their vealing some of the names of the trans- living in the same house. When my friend really public places such as in school, concerned over appearances. Many employers skirt gender dis- gender escorts who were arrested and needed to speak to her father, they spoke through their child’s gender issues, parents are embar- crimination laws, refusing to hire trans-genders, my caller was one of them. Irritated, she especially for management positions, by mak- grumbled to me—“there are nearly a ing false claims as to why the trans-gender is not thousand female escort ads posted each Parents ignore their children’s problems — hired. Today, gender discrimination in employment day on the Craigslist’s Boston Erotic is common; it is practiced everyday in our society. section which never seems to reduce, but they believe that their child’s transgender lifestyle Gender transformation is expensive. Most only 10-15 transgender ads are watched people believe that when a teenage girl asks closely by the police.” Further, the ar- itself causes all the problems; so the way to solve her parents for breast implants after high school ticle quoted police: ‘ the trend in trans- graduation that it is luxurious spending and com- sexual prostitution is an emerging phe- the problems is to simply keep their secret life as a pletely unnecessary. However, for trans-gender nomenon.’ With sympathy, I inquired women, plastic surgery is a necessary part of of my caller as to where she was going trans-gender in the closet. their transformation. Imagine—a person whose Parenting to live—all apartment leases require a appearance is half man/half woman, walking background check; also she had no job history to her mother. rassed to come forward and fight on behalf of down the street; s/he would attract public atten- provide; to fill out a lease application was a com- In America, abandoning a child is illegal. How- their children. tion in a way that would cause great embarrass- mon problem for escorts; worse still, she had a ever, in cases concerning transgender children, it Leading a single life, alone at a young age, is ment to her. Moreover, when using public rest- criminal record. Isn’t it ironic—the transgender is opposite. The family conflicts brought on by very difficult; especially when trans-gender teens rooms, surely s/he can’t just walk into a men’s minority had just caused a major public problem? the transgender lifestyle of the child, and the sar- have received inadequate formal education. For restroom but is she passable enough to simply It is very difficult for non-trans-gendered people castic comments uttered everyday by their par- most Americans, finding jobs during difficult walk into a women’s restroom? That is what to understand the host of problems transgender ents, has lead many teenage transgenders to run- economic times is hard; but for trans-genders, she is thinking while deciding where to pee. Plas- individuals face everyday in today’s society. away from home and live alone—so the parents jobs are extremely hard to find, even when the tic surgery is not an extravagance for those decid- While living in Thailand during my high school of transgender teens avoid legal abandonment economy is doing well. Moreover, in Ameri- ing to live as a transgender; but rather, a neces- years, a teenage friend of mine was caught pos- problems. Few, if any, parents report their trans- can society, sexual genders are strictly divided: sity to help them ease their way into society. So, sessing women’s makeup by her parents: they gender child as missing. Most disown any child nightclubs, movie theaters, place to hang out, and investing $8,000 for breast implants, $200/week found a woman’s powder compact hidden in who lives as a transgender. even many residential areas are divided into gay for female hormones, and even more for hair her school bag. Her parents had suspected that A friend of mine, from Laos, came to America or heterosexual areas. Once two gay men who products, makeup, and women’s clothing greatly she was attempting to live as a transgender. Her during the Vietnam War era, when she was very were moving from Connecticut into a new apart- young. She never graduated from high school as ment in Brighton, MA asked me, (when they re- See Transgender Children on page 18  • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Let us work together for the good of all By: Deja Nicole Greenlaw/ TRT Columnist of electricity into my face. I was complaining about these things If we are offended by movies such as TOT- n the past week I have received about a very vocal group of trans who wanted but I think we need WK please let’s be civil with our disagree- messages from two people who us to boycott one of the local LGBT bars. I re- to be more civil in ments. Please don’t rant and rave as some Ts Iappreciate my viewpoints. One member saying to her, “Why are they always dealing with these did on the internet. Please keep the disagree- was from a reader from Noho who fighting? Why?” She said to me, “Deja, they matters. After all, ment on a civil level. wrote a Letter to the Editor in the last have been fighting their whole lives living this is a much larg- If we have an issue with an LGBT establish- TRT issue and the other was from with being trans. Maybe they don’t know how er community, the ment, then approach the management of that More Willam Bella via a Facebook mes- to stop fighting.” LGBT community, establishment and ask for a meeting to talk sage. Willam is one of the actors I thought about her comment for a while and and we are all mem- about it, don’t just boycott it without address- who plays one of the leading roles it did make sense and rang true with a lot of the bers of it. We really ing the issues first. in Ticked Off Trannies with Knives members of the T community. We are natural should be working If someone calls you “trannie,” I personally & & (TOTWK). I appreciated both gentle- fighters. We are born with a gender mismatch together to go after don’t mind it, but if you don’t like it, please men’s supportive words and I’m glad and we fight it. We don’t know what it is, it Deja Nicole Greenlaw our real foes who try politely tell them that it makes you feel un- that I can connect with others outside frightens us and we fight it. Then we realize to deny us our rights. comfortable and then let it go. of the Trans community! that it is not going away and we fight it. We That’s where are anger and our fighting should We need to all work together as an LGBT Sadly though, both messages know from society that we are “supposed to go! We shouldn’t be infighting and trying to be family. When disagreements arise (and they made me think of the divisiveness be” one way, yet we feel the other way. So, we divisive within our own community! will!) then we need to address these issues. We and infighting that there is in our fight it. When we finally come to terms with Like most Ts, we have many gay and lesbian really are a team and we need to be together! larger LGBT community. The “T” it then we fight society into accepting us and friends. We support the gays and lesbians in There is still a lot of work for us to do and we element sometimes seems to be the respecting us. We expect society to acknowl- their struggles and we expect them to support need to be together to do it. I have heard on antagonist in the community. Don’t edge us as our true gender and the fighting us in our struggles. This is what friends do. We several occasions that some transpeople go get me wrong, being Tran is very dif- spirit is always there. Many times people don’t should be helping each other, not fighting with as far as to say that we don’t need the gays ficult and we have many obstacles to understand us, we confuse them or maybe they each other. We should not direct our anger to or the lesbians—that we can do it ourselves. I overcome. I can see firsthand where just plain forget how to address us and they those who have nothing to do with issues like say that we do need the gays and the lesbians! Opinions the anger is present. Most of us Ts may refer to us as our birth gender. That makes the T being dropped from ENDA. We should These are our friends and allies and we need to have been fighting our whole lives us upset. Let’s face it, people make mistakes direct it to the people who did that are in work with them! with who we are and who society and use the wrong pronouns and “wham!” the Washington, DC. The people from Northamp- To the non-T members of our greater LGBT wants us to be. We have to endure all fight in us surfaces! We must not lash out at ton, Springfield, Boston or Hartford shouldn’t community, when we, as Ts, disagree with you of the same situations that everyone our friends and allies. They will help us if we be blamed! If you feel a need to address this please keep in mind the fighting spirit, which in the LGBT community has plus we let them. If people make a mistake with pro- issue then I suggest a civil protest much like resides within us and has been there since actually change our physical genders nouns we should politely and quietly tell them the one I did, not once but twice, in 2004 birth. Sometimes it just comes out and we may and deal with our family, friends and that we would appreciate it if they refer to us when I civilly protested HRC (Human Rights overreact. We must get past that. We need to coworkers about this change. This is a as our true gender. Campaign) right outside of their home office work together for the better for us all! I want Trans Trans continually very difficult issue to deal I hate it when the Ts fight with the Ls and in DuPont Circle in Washington, DC. We all of us to move on and to fight for all of our with and believe me; it is not for the weak! the Gs—whether it’s boycotting an LGBT bar, protested for Transgender inclusion in ENDA rights together. I am hoping that our T com- A few years ago, one of my electrologists protesting about TOTWK, being surly with and the Hate Crimes bill both times. Yes, I am munity will tone down the way that we present (something that we Transwoman have to en- local Ls and Gs about the Employment Non a TransActivist! But, I am also a realist. We our internal differences, work them out peace- dure, painful and seemingly never ending hair Discrimination Act, ENDA, or just from them must not overreact especially when it comes fully and work together for the good of all! removal) was talking to me as she was sticking simply from using the wrong pronouns with to airing differences within the greater LGBT her needle into my pores and shooting currents us. Yes, we can have issues and disagreements community. Ask a Transwoman: The reality of being trans, and how I killed Mac, part II By: Lorelei Erisis*/TRT Columnist first time I read it. The idea of “killing” the per- study of character something? Dear Lorelei, son I was before I fully came into my own as and an excellent ac- And here is where I comeback to the original (Continued from April 15th issue) “Lorelei” is especially distressing, but not en- tor. All told, I like to question. What is the best way for the friend of a tirely inaccurate. The person that I was in the think I was a pretty How can I possibly expect you, Nora, to not transperson to express anger and resentment world, while not an honest expression of who good guy. I was be angry at me? To not be harboring all kinds at a transperson for “killing” the person I really felt myself to be, was about as close as well-dressed, polite, of resentment towards me, when I have been the transperson was before they started their I could come to it. And, it was a fully fleshed- funny, intelligent, lying to you and everyone else for all these transition? out person for what it was. What I was. understanding and I years? —Nora C. Here’s some full-disclosure that you will al- always wore really When we shared such intimate moments and most never see from a transgender person. In- fantastic shoes! Re- closely held secrets with each other in the un- Wow. Taking a deep breath. formation I might add that is NOT okay to ask ally, not so different derstanding that we were both being as honest Welcome friends (and Nora) to Part 2 of unless it is offered. Before I was Lorelei, the from whom I am and as open as was possible for two people to “Live Nude Lorelei.” This is the part frank- fabulous entertainer/columnist/activist/pag- now. Except that it Lorelei Erisis be—and here I am saying that the person you ly that I’ve been putting off, the part of this eant queen that you know today, I presented was a character. It knew, that you shared so much with was at the question that delves most deeply into who the myself to the world as a boy named Mac. Rev- was boy-drag. heart of it a lie. heck I think I am. I honestly can’t speak for all erend Mac, if I was feeling formal about it, and I’ve always prized honesty and for the most I fear sometimes that I did too good a job transpeople or all of the friends of transpeople yes I am an ordained minister. part, I was very open and honest about whom I of being the best man I could be. The most on this one. But, I suspect based on my expe- “Mac” was not my legal name mind you; it was and what I thought even as Mac. I was al- common objection from my female friends rience of the commonalities of human nature, was a traditional Irish nickname that my par- most compulsively honest in fact. It got me into when I announced my transition was that I was that this is an issue that almost all of us have ents gave me when I was born. You still don’t a lot of trouble, especially in relationships. the one of the best men they knew and they to deal with at some point, whether or not we get to know my soon-to-be-former legal name. “Do you think I look fat in this?” needed me around to be an example for their have someone in our lives that can put it this I wasn’t especially crazy about it even then “Yep.” boyfriends/husbands/brothers. clearly and succinctly. and I’m looking to be rid of it now. That’s a “Are you attracted to other women?” But, I went through with it anyway. I killed Honestly, this question blew me away the whole other column though. “Sometimes.” Mac. And the only thing I can do is apologize. The reason I’ve shared this “Are you now or have you ever been a mem- I’m sorry. I truly am. You have every right to with you is that “Mac” is the ber of the Communist Party???” be angry and resentful. It is a perfectly natural person that I killed. “Mac” is “Well, not actually a dues paying member, reaction. who I was and how I identi- but …” And so, on that dramatic note, I leave you fied and as wonderful as he You can see how this may have played out. ‘til next time dear readers, when I will return was, he is gone now. There is Still, I was as honest as I could be. I think it’s with the third and final part of my answer to no Mac, only Zool. (For the important. But I was lying to everyone about my long-time friend Nora. pop-culture-impaired that was the single most basic fact of my existence. R.I.P. Reverend Mac a “Ghostbusters” joke. –LE) That I was a woman. Slainte! I was not happy being a man, I’ve come to think that my “honesty” came in but I figured if I was going to large part as a way of distracting people from *Lorelei Erisis is Miss Trans New Eng- have to be one, I would be the asking the one question I prayed they would land 2009 and she can be contacted at: best man I could be. It never not. If I was so notoriously and publicly hon- [email protected]. came naturally, but I’m a good est, why would anyone think that I was hiding www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 •  Connecticut Gay & Lesbian Film Festival celebrates 23 years of Independent film HARTFORD, CT—Out Film CT is pleased is an inspiration to us all. After 42 years, feisty to announce that the Connecticut Gay & Les- and delightful lesbian couple Edie and Thea bian Film Festival is celebrating its 23rd year are finally getting married. this May, bringing to the region a wide range · Prodigal Sons – Filmmaker Kimberly of lesbian, gay, bisexual and Reed returns home for her transgender (LGBT) docu- high school reunion, ready to mentaries, shorts, and full- reintroduce herself to the small length feature films. The fes- town as a transgender woman tival runs from Thursday, May and hoping for reconciliation 27th through Saturday, June with her long estranged ad- 5th, 2010. opted brother Marc. “The screening committee · Baby Love – Manu, a gay has been working diligently since August to pediatrician in his forties, has the perfect rela- pull together a great line-up of films for this tionship with his partner Philippe, a successful year’s festival. And, as always, we expect lawyer. But things become very complicated to bring several directors, actors and special when Manu insists on pursuing his life-long guests to make the festival a unique cultural dream of adopting and raising a child. event for the state.” said · Undertow – An un- festival director Shane usual ghost story set on Engstrom. Last year, the Peruvian seaside; festival attendees were a married fisherman treated to live question struggles to reconcile Photo: Anthony Bennoch and answer sessions his devotion to his male with filmmakers and lover within his town’s Benjamin Bratt stars in La Mission, a love letter to San Francisco’s Mission District actors from as far away rigid traditions. light meals and beverages from The Spot Eat- throughout the year, culminating in the 10-day as San Francisco and · The Topp Twins: ery. Adding to the festivities, a silent auction Connecticut Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. As Newfoundland. Untouchable Girls is offered throughout the duration of the film Connecticut’s longest-running film festival, it Here are a few of - Fun, disarming and festival. Movie buffs can bid on a wide range has become a distinctive fixture in our state’s the films expected musically provocative, of items that include exotic travel, fine dining, cultural landscape, bringing the community to screen (subject to the Topp Twins are artwork, spa packages, and fine wines. together to introduce, celebrate and rediscov- availability): New Zealand’s finest er the ideas and values that make the LGBT · Violet Tenden- lesbian musical com- Out Film CT is a nonprofit cultural orga- community unique. cies – In this romantic edy duo and the coun- nization dedicated to presenting outstanding For more information, call 860-586-1136, comedy, Mindy Cohn try’s greatest export LGBT cinema and other theatrical events or visit www.OutFilmCT.org. of ‘The Facts of Life’ since rack of lamb and fame plays a woman the Lord of the Rings who, feeling her bio- Photo: Anthony Bennoch movie trilogy. logical clock ticking, Christian Mercado and Manolo Cardona in Presented by Out tries to distance herself the unusual and haunting Undertow Film CT, the festival from her gay friends in takes place at Cinestu- an effort to land a straight boyfriend. dio on the campus of Trinity College, 300 · La Mission – Peter Bratt’s moving film Summit Street, in Hartford, CT. Films are about the powerful ties of family and commu- shown nightly at 7:30 p.m., with matinees on nity is a love letter to the vibrancy and daily May 27th and May 28th at 3:00 p.m. Admis- struggles of San Francisco’s Mission District. sion prices are $9 for general admission and Benjamin Bratt plays Che, a reformed and re- $7 for students and seniors, except $15 and spected ex-con and alcoholic, who must strug- $12 for Opening/Closing gala screenings (Fri- gle to unlearn a lifetime of destructive habits day, 5/28 & Saturday, 6/5) which includes the when he discovers that his beloved son is gay. films, food, beverages and musical entertain- · Edie & Thea: A Very Long Engagement ment. Tickets will be available online two – Connecticut native Susan Muska and Greta weeks prior to the festival or at the door. Olafsdottir tell the love story of two remark- A Cinema Café is offered on Friday and Sat- able women whose commitment to each other urday evenings starting at 6:30 p.m., featuring  • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Planned Parenthood launches local 2010 Pride Marches & Rallies in “Get Yourself Tested NOW” campaign our local Gayborhoods & beyond The change of seasons welcomes in many 24th Annual Southern Maine Pride Parade Men encouraged to get tested today Pride Marches, Rally’s and Celebrations to & Festival will take place on June 19th. The BOSTON—Planned Parenthood League of “People often think that only women use the immediate region and beyond. Some of Parade will start at Monument Square in Down- Massachusetts (PPLM) is kicking-off a lo- Planned Parenthood services,” explained the closest to our gayborhoods are: town Portland, ME. For more information, please visit: http://www.southernmainepride.org. cal campaign for the month of May to raise PPLM President/CEO Dianne Luby. “As a di- CT Pride 2010 takes place on June 5, 2010 at awareness among young adults, in particular rect service provider we see first hand how limi- Bushnell Park. TRT will, once again, design Pride Vermont 2010 will be celebrated on men, about the importance of getting tested for tations to access and information can negative- the CT Pride Guide this year and will the next July 24th, 2010. TRT will be at the celebra- sexually trans- ly affect the too. To learn more about entertainers and CT tion. To know more about VT’s celebration, mitted dis- sexual health Pride, please visit www.connecticutpride.org. check out their website: www.pridevt.com/ eases (STDs). “People often think that only women of both men PPLM is use Planned Parenthood services, ...” and women. Boston Pride 2010 celebrates its 40th An- New York City Pride 2010 celebrates Gay building on It’s important niversary, will also be one of the biggest cel- Pride for a full week: June 19 to June 27, the success of “Get Yourself Tested NOW”, a for all of our patients to understand that it’s ebrations in the commonwealth. TRT will be a 2010. As with previous years, this 2010 Pride national campaign for STD Awareness Month easy to keep themselves safe and healthy. This media sponsor and will be at Boston Pride this honors what many consider to be one of the in April spearheaded by Planned Parenthood campaign is an opportunity to start the conver- year too. Boston Pride will happen from June foremost events in the history of lesbian and Federation of America, MTV, the Kaiser Fam- sation about sexual health and prevention as a gay rights, the Stonewall Riots. For more in- 4-13th, 2010 this year. For more information, formation visit: www.nycpride.org. ily Foundation, and the Centers for Disease public health priority.” and to see what will happen throughout the Control and Prevention. PPLM offers “clothes- week please visit www.bostonpride.org/mul- Pride Toronto 2010 celebrates its 30th anni- In Massachusetts, on” visits for a variety ticalendar.php versary this year. The week long celebration young people between of STD testing options. starts on June 25 and ends on July 4. Pride the ages of fifteen and Appointments are quick, Worcester Pride 2010 will take place on Sept Week features 10 days of world class arts and twenty-four contract convenient, and in many 11th this year. For more information about this cultural programming, community activities, STDs at a disproportionately higher rate than cases can be made the same day. Flexible pay- great Pride, visit www.worcesterpride.com. one of the world’s largest street festivals, Pride any other age group. Nationally, one in two ment options are available to meet the needs of Rhode Island Pride, or Pride Fest 2010, will Parade, Dyke March, Family programming, sexually active people will contract an STD individual patients. tentatively take place on June 19th. PrideFest Blackness Yes and Youth and much more. before they reach their twenty-fifth birthday. and the Night Gay Pride Parade through Provi- To learn more about Pride Toronto visit: Despite these alarming statistics, a new study Planned Parenthood League of Massachu- dence basically functions as Providence Gay www.pridetoronto.com. in The Journal of Adolescent Health reveals setts is the largest freestanding reproductive Pride and Newport Gay Pride all rolled into that young men aren’t getting the appropriate health care provider in the state. For over For a more comprehensive list of all of sexual health counseling they need. In addi- 80 years PPLM has protected and promoted one statewide celebration. For more informa- the Pride Events in the U.S. and abroad, visit tion, the Office of Health and Human Services sexual and reproductive health and freedom tion, visit www.prideri.com. Interpride at: http://www.interpride.org reports that historically, men of all ages are of choice through clinical services, education far less likely than women to access important and advocacy. For more information, visit Test from page 2 Maybe in the beginning or the middle of their preventive healthcare services. www.pplm.org. itself into my consciousness. Why had this is- life. Maybe even to spend the end of their days sue gotten as full blown as it did? with. It’s not for us to judge how people find And, to top it all off, the NAGAAA doesn’t love or who they find it with. And, we are have any specific guidelines on bisexual or often the first to loath folks that tell us who transgendered people, so it seems nuts that we should or shouldn’t love; we don’t accept they actually invalidated their championship their version of what’s normal, immoral or place finish based on their Crusades-like de- just plain sick. cision concerning the three men’s orientation. I believe the LGBT community has come to It’s no wonder they are being sued. a divide in the road. We need to accept the fact that not everyone If it is wrong to bar an individual because experiences their sexual orientation the way he/she is gay, then it is just as wrong to bar we do, and guess what? These “others” are an individual because they are bi or straight. still part of our community; what makes it so Human rights are human rights and if we want strong, diverse and embracing. Unless we’re our rights respected, we must respect the rights all just full of crap about that. and equality of others. Recently, personal trainer Jillian Michaels One can’t have it both ways. Or is that too of the television show “The Biggest Loser” bi to say? came out as bisexual. “I’ve been in love with both” she said. Is there a place for people like * Suzan Ambrose is often seen rollerblading her in “our world?” Are we prepared to tell near ball fields while softball season is under- so many members of our own community way and watching Jillian Michaels on Tues- that they don’t belong because they may have day evenings when she’s not writing diligently had heterosexual relationships along the way? for The Rainbow Times. Pic 2: jools-and-lynda-topp rev Caption: Jools and Lynda Topp, talented and funny les- bian twin musicians from New Zealand Credit: Sally Tagg

www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 •  THE TOPP TWINS Are Coming! Performing Live In Concert in Northampton The latest LGBT buzz around New England unpredictable fun breaks loose. is about The Topp Twins performing live in “The Topp Twins are truly a phenomenon. concert in Northampton on Saturday, June 12, They have an extraordinary effect on people, 8 p.m., at the Academy of Music Theatre. Pre- from all walks of life,” states producer Arani sented by Out! For Reel, this concert will be Cuthbert. The Topp Twins’ first in the U.S. as they tour The Topp Twins are loved by their entire na- around the country promoting their award- tion both LGBT and straight, young and older. winning documentary at major film festivals. They have the uncanny ability to build bridges On Friday, May 21, their film, “The Topp between the LGBT and straight communities Twins: Untouchable Girls”, will be screened through their music and humor. by Out! For Reel at 8:15 p.m., at the Academy Their documentary, The Topp Twins: Un- of Music Theatre, Northampton, Mass. “The touchable Girls, takes audiences on a delight- Topp Twins are truly amazing. People abso- ful journey of the twins’ lives and highlights lutely loved this film when we premiered it Lynda and Jools top-rated television show, in February. We want to give folks one more their work on behalf of gay rights in New Zea- chance to see it before The Topp Twins come land, Jool’s triumph over cancer and the Topp in June,” states Jaime Mi- Twins induction into New chaels, executive producer Zealand’s Music Hall of of Out! For Reel. “When Fame. Variety magazine you see the film, you in- says that The Topp Twins: stantly want to see them Untouchable Girls is a film perform in person.” “has you falling in love The Topp Twins are with two of the crazier lesbian twin sisters whose people you never met … popularity in their native pure fun, very musical, and New Zealand has won a can of mixed nuts. What them the best Country we see are transformations Western Music Album worthy of world-class award, their own television actresses.” variety show, and inducted “We are thrilled and into NZ’s Music Hall of honored that Out! For Reel Fame. will be the first to present Famous for their laugh The Topp Twins in the out loud character sketch- U.S. The Topp Twins are es, beautiful harmonies, really excited to perform in and amazing yodeling, The Northampton. It’s going to Topp Twins’ distinctive be a fantastic night,” says brand of entertainment in- Michaels. cludes interactive comedy Concert tickets for June theatre and a wide range of 12 are $25 Advance / $30 musical styles throughout Photo: sally tagg Door. Film tickets for May their show. Jools and Lynda Topp perform in 21 are $8.50. Advance tick- “We’re not comedians,” Camp Mother and Camp Leader ets can be purchased online Lynda Topp says. “We’re at www.OutForReel.org or singers who are funny.” But their comedy at the Academy of Music Box Office. sketches, filled with a cast of lovable, quirky For more information, to watch the trailer, characters, have been making audiences from and to buy tickets, visit www.OutForReel.org. coal miners to anti-nuke activists double over with laughter for years. Out! For Reel is the largest LGBT film se- The Topp Twins re-invent themselves on ries in the USA. Based in Northampton, Mas- stage, changing character and gender with sachusetts, Out! For Reel screens the best in ease, and deliver visually funny humor often award-winning lesbian, gay, bisexual and through song. Spontaneity is a vital ingredient transgender films from around the world on a of the Topp Twins magic on stage and audi- monthly basis during a ten month season, be- ence participation a trademark. As the Topps ginning each year in September. The dates for maxim is “we send up rather than put down”, 2010-2011 Season Three can be found on the their “guests” always feel safe on stage while OFR website. 2b in the know 24/7 ... twitter.com/ therainbowtimes facebook.com/ therainbowtimesnews www.therainbowtimesnews.com 10 • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Toni Braxton finds herPulse : Soulstress un-breaks hearts with first album in five years – and opens her own to gays By: Chris Azzopardi of theirs. But my counterparts are people like no idea that was the au- Toni Braxton’s loving the ladies. Regardless Mariah and Mary J. Blige, and artists like that dience that was going to of lesbian rumors that swirled around years have kept it to where artists from the ’90s can love it most. ago, the R&B singer who rode a massive wave still maintain and be a part of the group as CA: Have you seen drag to superstardom with the ubiquitous mid-’90s well. I’m very grateful for them for keeping it queens do “Un-Break ballad “Un-Break My Heart” isn’t ashamed to going for me. My Heart?” mack on fly females. Or dish on her dramatic CA: It was all about the voice in the ’90s. TB: Oh yes! I definitely family, which we’ll see more of during her Less so now, when everything is so digitally have (laughs). And “He upcoming Bravo reality show. Or tell you that enhanced. Wasn’t Man Enough,” her sultry voice – one of robust power that’s TB: I use a little bit of it. It has helped me here which is wonderful. nabbed her numerous Grammys – tinkers with and there. Thank goodness for technology! CA: What should drag Auto-Tune on her first CA: How do you feel queens keep in mind album in five years, the female artist pool when they’re doing “Un- Pulse. has changed since that Break My Heart?” Whatever it is, Brax- decade? TB: Keep the hips re- ton’s not one to hide it TB: The industry’s ally tight and to the side. – and in our interview, pretty much still the Gyrate a little more. But the singer was very vo- same. It’s always about I love the lip service that cal about the gays mak- the bottom line, which they give, so I have in- ing her a better woman, is unfortunate and corporated some of that the fresh batch of fe- can sometimes take in my live performances. male artists and Ellen away from the creativ- CA: You’ve been dealt DeGeneres being man ity. What’s great is the some hardships recently enough for her. newer artists get to be a with your heart condi- little bit more creative. tion, your son’s autism Chris Azzopardi: Like Gaga, she doesn’t and your separation late Would you call this a care. She does what she last year. comeback? wants and I love that, TB: Everything! Toni Braxton: I’d call especially being a girl. CA: Will that be reflect- it anything you want to A lot of times people ed on Pulse? call it! I’m just really want to put you in a box TB: A little bit of my glad to be back at work again, because I didn’t if you’re a girl, and she’s like, “I’m a girl, but health with the song think I’d ever be. For me, it’s a really great I can look sexy, I can wear what I want, I can “Pulse.” I made it, of moment. think for myself. I don’t need you to think for course, about love. CA: Do you feel like you have to find your me.” I love that about the newer artists. Sometimes you think Photo: Markus Klinko & Indrani place again because of all the female artists CA: The video for the second single, “Make love’s dead and that one Toni Braxton dominating the charts in recent years, like My Heart,” is so gay. How conscious were you little heartbeat gives you Lady Gaga and Rihanna? of your gay fans when you made Pulse? that spark to go for it I’m the person in my family who’s most suc- TB: No, I don’t really feel that. Though, TB: I love my boys because my boys help me again. There’s also a song called “Woman” cessful and I don’t like to say head butting, but they’re two of my favorite artists. Huge fan be a better girl. My choreographer and my vid- where I’m talking to guys, telling them what some of my sisters are like, “I wish I had that!” eo director are gay, and they’ve women want, and that’s personal with me go- And some of my sisters are like, “I’m fine with been my best friends since I ing through a separation. There’s “Why Won’t my life being this way.” started in the industry. They You Love Me” and I think everyone knows the Everyone wants them to be Toni Braxton’s tell me, “No, no, no, girl. You feeling of when they’re in a relationship and sister, and when I’m hot, they’re hot and when don’t walk like that anymore. you’re the one who gives a little more than the I’m not, they’re not. It’s about how I feel being Girls walk like this.” I’m like, other person: “Why won’t you love? I make an artist, being the most successful person in “We do?! What else do we do?” love to you, I cook for you, what else can I do my family and how it affects the other fam- They’re my favorite part of the to make you love me?” It’s more of a purging ily members. It’s going to be a very animated whole industry. moment. show to say the least. CA: When did you first know CA: You grew up in a strict, religious house- CA: Early in your career there were lesbian you had a gay following? hold, where your father was a clergyman. How rumors that you denied. Remember that? TB: “Un-Break My Heart.” I did that shape your feelings on gay people? TB: I do remember that! guess that’s when we recog- TB: Oh gosh, when I was younger everything CA: Now that you’ve gone through a couple nized all the support. And it was was about the Bible. They believed that wom- of men, have you changed your mind? really wonderful. So when we en shouldn’t wear pants, so I never wore pants TB: (Laughs) I have a few girl crushes, like, did “Make My Heart” we had until I was 14. I didn’t listen to secular music. “Mmm, she’s kind of cute” or “Gosh, I love It was very old school. But when I got older, I her body.” I have a terrible crush on Ellen learned things for myself. (DeGeneres) and everyone around me knows CA: How are you raising your kids then? it. She makes me laugh, and she’s girl enough TB: There’s one little kid in one of my son’s and dude enough at the same time. And I love classes and my son said, “Mommy, he acts like Salma Hayek. a girl. Will I act like a girl?” I’m like, “It’s not CA: You’re such a tease in the “Hands Tied” that he acts like a girl; he acts like himself. It’s video. Are you one in real life? not something you can become. You’re born TB: When I was younger I was probably a a way, and it’s OK because people are born tease because sex before marriage was a bad different ways.” thing. I had to let that go, too! (Laughs) Not as I teach them that there’s nothing wrong with much being older, but I can be a tease when I that. Kids are different nowadays. They aren’t need to be. But I haven’t been practicing be- close-minded like my parents’ generation was cause I’m separated. or how I was initially taught to be. CA: Your Twitter page lists you as a cake-mak- CA: Will your Bravo reality show that’s set to er. Would you consider opening up a bakery? air in the fall be more Being Bobby Brown or TB: I love cooking and baking cakes, but oh Kathy Griffin’sMy Life on the D-List? god, Ace of Cakes? Not for me! I’m not that TB: I don’t know. I’ve never done a show like good. However, I do like to bake a lot, so I this before. It’s called Braxton Family Values, can make a guy – whomever I’m with – very, like Addams Family Values, and it’s about my- very happy. self and my entire family. It’s so much drama CA: Hear that guys? because there are so many different opinions. TB: Or girls even! www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • 11 AIDS Action Committee President and CEO Honored 25th Anniversary of AIDS Walk Boston on June 6th by the National Association of People With AIDS By: Elizabeth Gormley/TRT Reporter AIDS over the last twenty-five years,” said Paul On Sunday, June 6th, the 25th Annual AIDS Twitchell, the AIDS Action Committee’s Director BOSTON, MA—The National Association of in combating Walk Boston will take place to benefit the Aids Ac- of Marketing and Communications. Those individ- People With AIDS (NAPWA) honored AIDS HIV and AIDS tion Committee of Mass. (AAC), New England’s uals were not confirmed by press time. However, Action Committee President and CEO Rebecca and have estab- first and largest AIDS service organization. Twitchell said that The Rainbow Times readers Haag with a Positive Leadership Award April lished goals,” The Walk starts at the DRC Hatch Memorial can go to www.aac.org to learn more about these 26. It is the group’s highest recognition of ser- said Haag. Shell, through the city’s Back Bay to Brookline, be- early pioneers, advocates, and caregivers. vice for those advocating on behalf of people “We’re already fore turning along the Charles River, following the One of these caregivers is Larry Kessler, AIDS with HIV and AIDS. seeing the results esplanade back to the start Action Committee’s founding Haag is being recognized for her role in with President line with a distance of 6.2 Director and whom the 5K run spearheading the Coalition for a National AIDS Obama’s ‘Act miles. is named after. The Larry Kes- Strategy. David Munar of the AIDS Foundation Against AIDS’ In 1986, the Walk, named sler 5K Run also takes place on of Chicago, Naina Khanna of Women Orga- campaign, which From All Walks of Life, June 6th, for those who prefer to nized to Respond to Life-threatening Disease, is raising aware- began with 4,000 people show their support moving faster and Chris Collins of amfAR are also being rec- ness of the dis- who raised $325,000 for the through streets of Boston. The fee ognized for their Coalition work. ease among relatively new, fatal disease to participate in the Run is $25 In an email to Haag, Michelle Lopez, Chair a complacent according to the AAC web- before May 14th, and $30 after. of the Board of Trustees of NAPWA and Frank public.” site. Today, their message Registration for both the Walk Oldham, Jr., President and CEO of NAPWA Other Posi- Photo: aac is the same—to remember Photo: Marilyn Humphries and the 5K starts at 7:30 a.m., at praised Haag for her “unparalleled leader- tive Leadership Rebecca Haag those we have lost to AIDS, the DRC Hatch Memorial Shell ship in support of development of a national Award honor- to spread awareness, give support, and continue located at 10 Storrow Dr., Boston, Mass. The 5K AIDS strategy and contributions to ending ees this year include President Barack Obama, to expand the services provided by AIDS Action Run begins at 9 a.m. and the Walk’s opening cer- the pandemic and human suffering caused by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Ma- Committee. In twenty-five years, the Walk has emony takes place at 9:30 a.m. The Walk itself HIV/AIDS.” jority Leader Harry Reid. raised over $35 million. starts at 10 a.m. The Run’s top finishers will re- The United States has long required countries According to the AAC’s website, since the dis- ceive awards at the Hatch Memorial Shell accord- receiving funds through the President’s Emer- About the aids Action Committee: ease began, 30,537 Massachusetts residents have ing to gender and age group, commencing at noon. gency Plan for AIDS Relief, which has chan- AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts, been identified as having HIV. There are roughly The closing ceremony will launch at 1:30 p.m. neled millions of dollars in HIV/AIDS funding Inc., (AAC), New England’s first and largest 600 new infections annually. Every year, the AIDS While water and snacks will be provided at three to African nations, to have national guidelines AIDS organization, is dedicated to stopping the Action Committee serves over 2,500 men, woman rest stops along the route, the AIDS Action Com- outlining how they will use U.S. funds to com- spread of HIV/AIDS by preventing new infec- and children with the virus. However, it is still gay mittee recommends walkers bring along additional bat HIV/AIDS. For the first 27 years of the tions and optimizing the health of those already and bi men who are most likely to contract HIV/ fuel, as well as sunscreen, rain gear, and of course, AIDS epidemic — until 2008 — the United infected. For more about the Aids Action Com- AIDS. The Center for Disease Control released comfortable walking shoes, according to their States did not have a national AIDS strategy in mittee please visit www.aac.org and at AAC’s new information in March 2010, indicating that website. Additionally, the AIDS Action Commit- place to coordinate the deployment of resources blog atblog.aac.org. men who have sex with men are 44 times more tee urges participants to bring any donation, cash to reduce HIV infections; increase access to About NAPWA: likely to contract the virus than other men, and 40 or check, to help support their cause in fighting care for people with HIV and AIDS; or close Founded in 1983, NAPWA is the world’s old- times more likely to contract it than all women. HIV/AIDS. the racial and ethnic disparities in health out- est coalition of people living with AIDS, as well The 25th Anniversary of AIDS Walk Bos- comes and infection rates. as the oldest national AIDS organization. For ton will honor twenty-five individuals who have To learn more about AIDS Walk Boston, please “It just makes sense to coordinate our efforts more information, please visit www.napwa.org. “made invaluable contributions to the fight against visit the official site at www.aidswalkboston.org. 12 • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Kathys’ Group provides support for lesbians with cancer and other life-threatening diseases By Lisa A. Eramo/TRT Reporter to me on the phone. Now it’s so different, it’s Being diagnosed with a serious ill- amazing,” says McCaffrey. ness can be overwhelming to say the To date, Kathys’ Group is the only support least. For lesbians and their partners, group in Rhode Island that focuses solely on a diagnosis of this magnitude brings lesbians. with it a whole host of other challeng- The group meets twice a month in Provi- es as well, particularly when trying to dence, and meetings typically draw between find a support group. three and eight women, says Egan Walsh. News “Members each take time sharing their expe-

“When someone is reeling from a cancer diagnosis, the last thing they rience. Oftentimes, it’s cancer/illness-related, need to deal with in a support group and other times, it’s just life-related. The group is homophobia or lack of equal sta- is very informal,” she adds. tus/respect,” says Maureen A. Egan Egan Walsh, who has facilitated the group Walsh, MA, MSW, LMHC. for the last 10 years, says participants value be- Walsh serves as the facilitator for ing able to share insights and experiences. Kathys’ Group—a program of the “For folks involved with cancer or life Rhode Island Breast Cancer Coalition threatening illnesses or their partners, this can (RIBCC) that provides support for be a time in life much like a roller coaster with lesbians with cancer or a life-threat- many ups and downs. To have other women ening disease and their partners. who are going through it or who have been “Being a part of providing an oppor- through it is a tremendous source of support,” tunity for lesbians to be themselves she adds. and share their pain, love, strength, In addition to holding bimonthly meetings, vulnerability, and experience is a gift Kathys’ Group also occasionally hosts events. for all involved,” says Walsh, whose In November 2009, Kathys’ Group and the private practice (Undividual, Inc.) is RIBCC sponsored an event titled “Lesbians and Photo: located in Providence. the Law,” which featured a panel of lawyers and From left to right, Marlene McCarthy, Chair, RIBCC, Lorry Garvin and Dorrie McCaffrey, Kathys’ Group was originally physicians to address lesbian-specific topics. co-founders of Kathys’ Group, Dr. Susan Love. The photo was taken at the National Breast

Rhode Island Rhode founded in 1995 when Narragan- Marlene McCarthy, cofounder and volunteer Cancer Coalition (NBCC) Annual Advocacy Meeting in Washington, DC, in May, 1997, shortly sett residents Dorrie McCaffrey and her late chair of the RIBCC, says the number and type after the group was organized. partner Lorry Garvin realized there were no of events the group can sponsor depends on the lesbian-specific support groups in Rhode Is- donations it receives. sufficient funding to be able to put on spe- may also include a note specifying that you’d land. They founded the group in honor of their “We do not separate donations that come cific programs for lesbians on an annual basis. like to target your funds directly to the group. close friend Kathy who had been diagnosed to the RIBCC. They fit the needs of women. We welcome small business and corporation Mail all donations to the RIBCC, Two Shop- with breast cancer as well as her partner (also However, there are many women who target sponsorships specifically for Kathys’ Group as pers Park, Coventry, RI 02816. named Kathy). their donations specifically for Kathys’ Group, well.” “At that time, a lot of older lesbians were so and when we receive those, they are held sepa- To donate specifically to Kathys’ Group, For more information about Kathys’ Group, closeted, they wouldn’t even give their name rately, and that’s how we’re able to support make your donation payable to the RIBCC and including when and where meetings are held, the program,” she says. “Our goal is to have write ‘Kathys’ Group’ in the memo line. You call 888-5-KATHYS. the month’s best selling videos courtesy: wolfevideo.com Lesbian Best Sellers 1. And Then Came Lola 2. Hannah Free 3. Bitch Slap 9. The L Word Final Season 5. I Can’t Think Straight 6. Training Rules 7. The Lovers & Friends Show Seasons 1 & 2 8. The Baby Formula 9. The World Unseen 10. The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love

Gay Best Sellers 1. Mr. Right 2. BOYCRAZY 3. Pornography: A Thriller 4. The Big Gay Musical 5. The Butch Factor 6. A Single Man 7. Half-Life 8. Eating Out 3: All You Can Eat 9. Homewrecker 10. 8: The Mormon Proposition www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • 13 Deep Inside Hollywood: The first Gay kiss in Bollywood By: Romeo San Vicente* tling mystery. So be surprised if it winds up in far, so good. But a multiplex near you sooner Robert Downey Jr. circles Oz now comes the news rather than later. The best In a way, Robert Downey Jr. is that Carey Mulligan, part: there’s usually always at currently best known for playing the Oscar-nominated least one big song and dance the most indestructible Tin Man of star of An Education, number in Bollywood films. all time. So if the Iron Man star de- may take on the cen- Dunno Y that is but Romeo cides to make a journey to Oz as the tral role of troubled, likes it. News Wizard in an upcoming adaptation, surly, bisexual, vio- who’d be surprised? Sam Mendes lent, dragon-tattoo- Hopelessly devoted to is already on board to direct Oz The sporting computer Grease Great and Powerful, based on the hacker Lisabeth. Over 30 years ago, the film L. Frank Baum books that spawned Romeo San Vicente Some are already version of a pretty cheesy one of the most gay-loved films of declaring Mulligan stage musical hit screens. And all time, The Wizard of Oz. And now too cute for the part. But that’s why they call it it was pretty cheesy itself. And Downey is in talks to play the man acting, folks. A little jet-black hair dye, a nose immensely popular. Grease behind the curtain. Nothing’s set in ring and some kick-boxing lessons and Mul- spawned millions of album yellow brick just yet, but this could ligan will probably do the role plenty proud. sales, posters and T-shirts, a turn out to be really cool. Romeo’s Look for this one to get all dark and moody bad sequel, an even worse re- just glad that the go-to guy for this sometime in 2011. teaming of its stars John Tra- sort of thing, Johnny Depp, wasn’t volta and Olivia Newton-John first on the list and risking over-satu- The first gay kiss in Bollywood in the weird flop Two of a rating his career popularity sponge. For a country where, until just recently, Kind and countless drag queen Meanwhile, wouldn’t Kick-Ass star even a heterosexual smooch was considered impersonations of Stockard Chloe Moretz be a great already- taboo, the news that a new Bollywood film Channing singing There Are against-type choice to play Dorothy? will feature Indian cinema’s first gay kiss is Worse Things I Could Do. You know, as long as she didn’t have almost downright shocking. The film in ques- Now, buoyed by the popu- to say that C-word again. tion, titled Dunno Y… Na Jaane Kyun, is a larity of both karaoke and drama about a gay relationship and is already the success of special event Mulligan inks up for Dragon Tattoo being talked about as India’s own Brokeback screenings where audiences

Entertainment Already a cult hit in art house Mountain. Now, this news would be a blip on sing along with the film as Photo: Paramount pictures cinemas stateside, the Swedish thriller The America’s culture screen if it weren’t for the lyrics are subtitled on screen, Robert Downey Jr. fact that Bollywood films have developed an here comes your chance to see Girl With The Dragon Tattoo is set to invade of brought this situation on yourselves. America’s movie consciousness with an Eng- increasingly strong presence in the Ameri- and participate in Grease Sing-Along when lish version of its sinister brand of suspense. can market, with more titles than ever com- it opens in theaters later this summer. Will it ing to the U.S., several of them outgrossing play near you? That depends on how heavy a *Romeo San Vicente always liked Marty And it’s appropriate that nervy director David Maraschino best. He can be reached care of Fincher (Fight Club, Zodiac) is taking on the the English language competition. So when concentration of homosexuals your city has. Dunno Y opens in India in a few weeks, don’t In other words, sorry small towns but you kind this publication or at DeepInsideHollywood@ remake; it’s that kind of convoluted, unset- qsyndicate.com. 14 • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Harris hits the road for RI marriage equality, promotes change By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter Securing marriage equality for same-sex For the fourth consecutive year, Rick Har- couples has been one of NASW’s top priori- ris has been traveling the roads of Rhode Is- ties, noted Harris, who has testified in favor land for a worthy cause—promoting marriage of legislation granting same-sex couples equal equality. rights at the Rhode Island State House. Harris, the 59 year-old Executive Director Harris reports getting a mixed response from of the Rhode Island chapter of the National the people he encounters during his travels. Association of Social Workers, has rode his Some are very supportive of the concept of civil bicycle over 4500 miles and visited 12 states marriage for gay and lesbian couples. A purple and Washington, D.C. in an effort to win sup- banner which reads “Support Civil Marriage” port for equal rights for same-sex couples. with the words “Same Gender Marriage” un- Harris has also been to derneath is something State Houses in New Harris displays outside York, New Jersey, his tent when he stays at and throughout New campgrounds for some England. much-needed rest. In addition, Harris “The main reason I do has collected 2600 sig- it is the conversations I natures on a Traveling have with people,” Har- Proclamation for Civil ris explained. Marriage. On April Harris reports get- 13, he went to Rhode ting a friendly reception Island College and the from CCRI students, Community College of who told him the topic Rhode Island (CCRI) of marriage equality to win support. Other was “personally rele- Photo: Rick Harris stops include the Uni- vant” to them. Harris’ sign, bicycle and conversation has swayed people in favor of RI marriage equality. versity of Rhode Island, Others are hostile Brown University, and toward the concept of Harris hopes people will come around on change their mind toward supporting marriage Bryant University in same-sex marriage and the issue of marriage equality for same-sex equality. Smithfield. don’t hold back from couples by thinking about what he has to say Harris remains humble about the role he And in May, Har- showing their feel- on the subject. Some people are what Harris plays in the fight for equal rights: “This is my ris plans to deliver ings. Harris has been calls “turnarounds” – they read the sign and little individual effort. This is a little tiny thing “Marriage Equality O- screamed and yelled at then turn around, come back and tell Harris the I can do on my vacation.” Grams” to every single by a few of the people sign, bicycle and conversation enabled them to state legislator. he has come into con- Harris’ bike ride has tact with. These are the C’mon Out from page 2 not the way things are done in other parts of the backing of NASW ones who tend to use the world. If we construct our realities, then their religious beliefs Up until very recently we viewed gender as as well as Marriage male or female. These were the only lenses who is to say what gender should look like? Equality Rhode Island Photo: Newport Daily News as motivation to oppose Some of you probably think that I’m getting same-sex marriage, available. It has been a binary perspective (MERI). Rick Harris whereby up until recently there were only a bit too far “out there” with all this. But think Rhode Island is the Harris noted. about it. We base our most important rela- Harris targets his two choices. As the transgender movement only New England state which has failed to continues there are many people for whom this tionships, for example, in part on surround- recognize same-sex marriages. message toward a third group of people, the ing ourselves with people who think like we “fence-sitters”, who don’t have a lot of knowl- view is very limiting. More and more people are The Iowa native has always been a strong identifying not as strictly male or female, but do. And usually we think we are right. The believer in equal rights for all people. edge about the issue. The use of the words “civil marriage” is meant to inform the unedu- as something else. You may ask, “well, what power in surrounding ourselves with others is “I can’t remember a time when it wasn’t is this something else,” and BCT, I can not that it carries weight and it seems to support important to me,” said Harris, who has been a cated that marriage is a civil procedure, Harris explained. say. The reason for this is because more people our view. There are people all over the world longtime ally of the GLBT community. are defining gender in a way that is unique to doing the same thing. Sometimes these views them. The concept of gender from this perspec- are opposing. They certainly are diverse. But tive is beyond definition. who is right? Is there a right? For these reasons we are seeing more If we’re making it up as we go, why don’t people who might go by their birth pronoun we just let everyone do their own thing as but express themselves more similar to the long is it doesn’t cause harm? Is this not opposite gender. There may be people who what the gay and lesbian movement has go the pronoun of the opposite sex but chose asked? Shouldn’t all beings have the right to to keep some or all features of their biological love and live in peace? sex. You see, for some, gender is fluid and The gender movement is showing us again, not necessarily fixed in one camp or the other, that we have another opportunity to open our but a combination of the two. Actually, if you hearts and make the world big enough for all. think about it, most of us who do not consider Best BCT, Tetty ourselves transgender have physical features, tastes and interests that fall outside the strict C’mon Out! - Submit your questions to definition of our gender. Tetty Gorfine, Director of LifeCourse Coun- If there are limitless ways a person can be; seling Center. Simply go to www.lifecourse. in how they look, how they express them- selves, what their values and preferences are, net and click on “Ask Us A Question.” All then perhaps there are limitless ways that a questions will be answered on the bulletin person might experience gender. If we are free board. One or two will be printed next month to experience ourselves devoid of limitations of here in The Rainbow Times. appearances, sex roles, and gender expres- sion, then a person may take on any one of Tetty has also been a psychotherapist a limitless number of “male” or “female” since 1980. She has worked extensively with qualities. LGBTQ individuals, couples and groups and This is precisely what I think you encoun- has supervised both clinicians and therapists tered at the party you recently attended. You in training. Her vision and leadership spirited met someone who is taking the risk and living nearly all of LifeCourse Counseling Center’s in a way that feels true to that person. Each programs. Tetty has also been on numerous person, each family and each society con- radio talk shows and television programs. structs norms, values, rules and expectations. She has presented at professional conferences These are arbitrary. The way we do things as on topics pertinent to gay, lesbian, bisexual a society in the U.S. , for example, is definitely and transgender individuals. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • 15 Imperial Court of RI 2010 crowns newest Monarchs By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter to the court members. The Imperial Court of Rhode Island dressed Diva Jackie Collins, wearing a glittering red to the nines and crowned their new Monarchs gown, gave a show stopping performance, do- on April 17 for their 18th Annual Coronation ing a medley of Supremes songs, including at the Providence Biltmore. “You Keep Me Hanging On”, “Baby Love,” Jacqueline DiMera and “Big Daddy” Aus- and “Stop In the Name of Love.” ten Daniels will serve as the new Empress There were also exciting performances from and Emperor, succeeding outgoing Monarchs Whitney Spears; Justinius Phoenix, Michael Regent Empress 17 Lee Daniels and Regent LaValley, Austen Daniels, who wore black Emperor 17 Scott Connery. leather and strutted down the runway to Adam The theme for the event was Gangsters, Lambert’s “What Do You Want From Me?”, Girdles, and Glitter – which paid tribute to the and DiMera, who danced to the Sister Sledge fashions and motifs of the 1920s. Participants classic, “We Are Family.” dressed as flappers and The beneficiaries for gangsters, toting plas- the Ball were Facts tic machine guns and Nursery/Aids Care other props. Ocean State and RI The President’s Pride. Award was presented The evening con- to photographer Jack cluded with the final Hartwein-Sanchez, walks/performances who was honored for by Connery and Dan- his continued support iels, the Coronation of the organization. Ceremony, and a re- The splashy open- ceiving line in the ball- ing production was a room atrium. performance of “He A Victory Brunch Had It Coming” from was held the follow- the smash musical ing morning as a way “Chicago.” to cap off a weekend “It’s all about having of tears, laughs, and fun,” Connery said. glamour. Connery and Dan- The Imperial Court iels were joined on System was founded in stage by their prede- San Francisco in 1965 cessors, including Ra- by José Sarria, also faelle Martino and BB known as Absolute Hayes, who served as Empress I, The Wid- the Court’s first Em- ow Norton. Around peror and Empress, 1971, this structure along with Stephen was replicated in Hartley, Kenneth Cote, Vancouver, Canada. LaDiva Jonz, Jazzmine In the United States, Taylor, Todd Warren, the first court outside Michael Souza, Taya Photo: Bill Berggren of San Francisco was Houston, Raymond Jacqueline DiMera and “Big Daddy” Austen Portland, Oregon, fol- Quinn, Mahogany Daniels are crowned the new Empress and lowed closely by Los Lite, Jade Love, Earl Emperor Angeles. Taylor, Vi’let, Ray Members purchase Fay, Gabriel, Gingah Rale, Belle Pellegrino, their own clothes and jewelry and attend sev- and Diana Prince. eral social and charitable functions throughout Special tribute was paid to Empress 8 Candy the year. Wills duBarry by Jazzmine Taylor. DuBarry Rhode Island formed its chapter in 1992. passed away in 2009. Some of the organizations which benefit from DiMera read a proclamation from Provi- the work of the Imperial Court are the Rhode dence Mayor David Cicilline, who praised Island Breast Cancer Coalition, Sojourner the Imperial Court for its “outstanding legacy House, A.I.D.S., Inc., Community Founda- and dedicated service” to the state’s LGBT tion of Southeastern Massachusetts, Help- community. ing Hands Healing Hearts, and the Matthew Monarchs from several out of town courts, Shepard Foundation. including Toronto, Massachusetts, Connecti- cut, New York, and Kentucky were in atten- For more information about the Imperial dance to share in the festivities and pay tribute Court of Rhode Island, visit www.icriprov.org. follow us ...

twitter.com/ therainbowtimes 16 • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • 17 Creep of the Week: MassEquality lauds passage of Steve King, the Hate Crimes Prevention Act comprehensive Anti-Bullying Bill boston, ma—Last week, the legislature must then investigate and take appropriate dis- By: D’Anne Witkowski* But hey, the suit’s convoluted argument is sent the long-awaited Anti-Bullying Bill to ciplinary action. Additionally, principals must Some fools from good enough for U.S. Rep. Steve King (R- Governor Deval Patrick. MassEquality strong- notify the parents of both victim and perpetra- Michigan have filed Iowa), who sent the group a letter giving them ly supports this comprehensive legislation and tor of reported bullying incidents. Ca federal law suit props. urges the governor to quickly sign the bill into “This legislation will save lives if it is imple- over last year’s Matthew “As a member of the House Committee on law. mented and enforced correctly,” said Politi- Shepard and James Byrd, the Judiciary, I worked hard to stop this leg- “After more than ten years of starts and stops cal Director DeeDee Edmondson. “Research Jr. Hate Crimes Preven- islation,” King writes. “Like you, I believe educators will now have the tools to prevent shows that LGBT students, or those perceived tion Act, which became this ‘Hate Crimes’ Act is unconstitutional and bullying so that stu- to be, are dispropor- federal law last year. marks an unprecedented move to regulate and dents can learn and tionately targeted for The group is made up of criminalize our thoughts.” grow in a safe envi- school bullying. We three Michigan ministers That’s right. King thinks the Hate Crimes ronment,” said Ex- look forward to work- and Gary Glenn, president Act constitutes thought control. It doesn’t, of ecutive Director Scott ing with the Depart- of the American Family course, but even if it did, everybody knows D’Anne Witkowski Gortikov. “We’re ment of Elementary Association’s Michigan that thought control can be easily thwarted grateful to the legisla- and Secondary Educa- division and the Mitten State’s No. 1 anti-gay with a helmet made of aluminum foil. ture for overwhelmingly supporting the Anti- tion to ensure that this research is taken into creep. King continues, “Not only will this act cre- Bullying Bill and we urge Governor Patrick to consideration during the development of anti- Their complaint? The Hate Crimes Preven- ate a class of people that are ‘more equal than quickly sign it.” bullying curricula and training programs.” tion Act violates their first amendment right to others,’ it will hinder your ability to preach the The House passed the Anti-Bullying Bill by MassEquality was part of a coalition of speak out against homosexuality. gospel and openly teach biblical principles.” a vote of 159-0 and the Senate by a vote of 38- LGBT and other civil rights organizations that They allege that the act has Unless folks are preaching the 0. Governor Patrick has previously stated he helped shape and shepherd the Anti-Bullying the “effect of deterring, inhib- gospel using a tire iron and steel-toe would sign the bill into law. Bill through the legislative process over the iting, and chilling the exercise The right to boots and “teaching biblical princi- The bill focuses on both stopping and pre- past year. of fundamental rights by per- ples” means beating some fags up venting bullying. Under the bill, schools must MassEquality works to achieve full equality sons ... who publicly oppose punch a homo outside of a gay club, it’s hard to include bullying prevention in their curricula for the LGBT Community. We’re protecting homosexual activism, the see what King’s problem is. and develop and implement anti-bullying marriage equality and promoting a full Equal- homosexual lifestyle and the in the name But logic has never stopped plans. School staff will also be required to re- ity Agenda in Massachusetts and supporting homosexual agenda.” anti-gay folks in the past. When port bullying incidents to their principal, who other states in winning marriage equality. Wow, air tight argument, of God? King says the Hate Crimes Act right? I mean, as long as you creates “a class of people that ignore the part of the act that reads, “Nothing are ‘more equal than others,” what he means reach out to a dedicated readership & informed community in this division shall be construed to prohibit is that strengthening laws regarding brutality any constitutionally protected speech, expres- against LGBT folks acknowledges that LGBT to advertise with the rainbow times contact us today at: sive conduct or activities (regardless of wheth- folks not only exist but that they are at an in- [email protected] • [email protected] er compelled by, or central to, a system of creased risk of violence. Not only that, but that religious belief), including the exercise of re- they deserve protection from said violence. Western MA: 413.282.8881 • Boston & RI: 617.444.9618 ligion protected by the first amendment to the The Hate Crimes Act doesn’t make hating Constitution of the United States and peaceful gays illegal. What it does is tell folks that the picketing or demonstration.” United States, at the highest level of govern- Minor detail. Maybe this is why U.S. At- ment, doesn’t tolerate violence against LGBT torney General Eric Holder has called for the people. Apparently that’s not the kind of coun- lawsuit to be dismissed. try King and the plaintiffs he praises want to Still, I can’t help but wonder, if the Hate live in. Crimes Act already safeguards the constitu- tional rights of homophobes and only prohibits *D’Anne Witkowski has been gay for pay violent acts, what are the “fundamental rights” since 2003. She’s a freelance writer and poet Glenn and his band of ministers claim are be- (believe it!). When she’s not taking on the ing violated? The right to punch a homo in the creeps of the world she reviews rock and roll name of God? shows in Detroit with her twin sister. Local Theatre Company plants Little Shop of Horrors in Noho Northampton, MA—Greene Room songs already beautifully rendered and most of Productions’ (GRP) Little Shop of Horrors his lines memorized. Director, David Wallace is set to perform at the Academy of Music in from Monson, Mass. said if all rehearsals go Northampton, Mass. on May 13-15th. as well as the first, GRP’s rendition of “Little Little Shop of Horrors is a comedic, horror, Shop of Horrors” is really going to be a mag- sci-fi, musical that centers on a skid row florist nificent visual and musical work of art. shop that is taken over by a giant, man-eating, From the spine chilling finale with a 25-foot blood-thirsty fly-trap from outer space. Hu- long man-eating plant, developed by Greene morous characters such as the sadistic dentist, Room Productions Creature Team, chomping played by Steve Pierce of Monson, Mass. and over the heads of the audience, playful cos- the “greek chorus” of the show, written to be tumes, and humorous melodies, the actors and played by women who sing, move, and have production of “Little Shop of Horrors” will be the spunk of The Supremes, who are better something to indulge in this May. known as Meghan Allen and Laura Lites of Springfield, Mass. and Renee Gibson of Mon- “Little Shop of Horrors” will be performed son, make the show a truly original and fun at the Academy of Music located at 274 Main musical masterpiece for all to enjoy. Street , Northampton, Mass. Groups and ad- Luis Manzi, a powerful tenor from Spring- vance purchase buyers get a great deal on field who is playing the lead role of junior- tickets. For more information about “Little florist Seymore who allows the fly-trap to Shop of Horrors”, tickets, or Greene Room first thrive on blood from a pin-prick to his Productions please visit www.greeneroom- finger, laughed last night as he remarked that productions.com, www.academyofmusicthe- this would be his fourth time playing this role. atre.com or call GRP at 413-668-7284, or the He arrived at the first read-thru with all of his Academy of Music at 413-584-9032. 18 • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Transgender Children from page 5 increase teen trans-gender’s living expenses. This ¡El municipio más abierto a la compels them to find ways to earn transformation sustaining incomes; even though their education and job opportunities are not sufficient. Trans-gender love life: normally people find love within their same gender in soci- comunidad gay en Puerto Rico! ety: straight men with straight women, gay Por: Wilfred Labiosa* de los E.U. usó por muchos años esta isla para men with gay men, lesbians with lesbians, but stoy de re- prácticas de combate, para aprender a usar ar- this is not true of trans-genders. Transgender greso en mi mas y entre este tiempo mataron a ciudadanos women are considered a part of LGBT, but EPuerto Rico, inocentes mas se adueñaron de más del 80% many date straight men—discreetly. Howev- mi patria. Deci- del municipio, incluyendo de las playas más er, love and sex across gender lines is taboo; dimos tomar una hermosas de Puerto Rico. straight men always hide their relationship avioneta para visi- La armada salió de esta isla en el 2003 pero with trans-genders from the public, citing that atina todavía quedan reminiscencias por toda la isla. their friends and family won’t accept this type ess tar uno de los mu- H nicipios de la isla Algunos de estos ejemplos incluyen: el alto of relationship. ric ric E porcentaje de cáncer entre los habitantes, de Once, a straight man who regularly hired L de PR. En el ter- enfermedades de la piel y de un turismo sin de- transgender escorts for discreet sex revealed

hoto: hoto: minal noto tantas p parejas gays y les- sarrollar. La agencia Federal para Sustancias sadly to me one day—“my parents want me to Wilfred Labiosa bianas. Veo cuatro Toxicas y Registro de Enfermedades (ATSDR, marry (a woman) but I like trans-genders bet- parejas de hombres por sus siglas en ingles) confirmó que los prob- ter.” Another married man said—“I never knew abrazados y dándose cariños; veo a lemas de salud en este municipio han ocurrido anything about trans-genders before my mar- una familia de dos mujeres con su debido a las actividades que la armada/marina riage, until I traveled to Europe and encountered hijo/as; y noto a una pareja de lesbi- de E.U. tuvo en esta isla. A pesar de estos re- some. I knew ever since that I was attracted to isión anas. ¿A dónde vamos? “Me parece cuerdos que no podemos palpar al visitar este trans-genders, they are why I think everyday que no estaremos solos”, le dije a mi municipio, sólo quedan pocos que se pueden about getting a divorce—but because I have V pareja. Me parece que vamos a un si- ver como las cruces de los fallecidos y rótulos kids, divorce is a problem. However, that’s tio frecuentado por nuestra comunidad LGBT. que prohíben el paso en áreas que la armada no okay—if my life can’t make a U-turn, I prefer to Cuando aterrizamos, vamos a alquilar un auto. ha limpiado todavía (se estima que es un 30% continue hiring trans-genders for discreet sex.” Cuando llegamos al establecimiento, veo la de la isla la cuál todavía sigue contaminada y In the past, there were only a few straight bandera gay (con el arco iris) colgando de la sin limpiar). A pesar de esto queda una isla Photo: Wilfred Labiosa men who had sexual experience with trans- reja y en el rótulo del negocio. Comenzamos a con playas solitarias y cristalinas, y una comu- genders; today their numbers have grown ex- manejar a nuestro aposento y veo dos balcones nidad abierta a la diversidad. Latina. No hay restaurantes de comida rápida, ponentially. Straight men (single, married & con banderas gay. Llegamos a la casa donde A Vieques la comunidad LGBT le ha lla- ni hay semáforos, y no hay estrés para nadie divorced), now understand and appreciate the nos vamos a quedar, que de hecho es de una mado diferentes nombres como el San Fran- que la visita. No estoy diciendo que hay una transgender lifestyle, but they still prefer not to pareja gay, y decidimos ir al mercado y veo a cisco del Caribe, la isla exótica de Puerto Rico vida nocturna llena de clubes gays, pero por lo discuss this touchy subject publicly. Why do otra pareja gay; estos dos son de alta edad y es- y la Islita Bella de la Isla Bella, entre otros. menos hay un club donde bailar y disfrutar. Es men have to hire women for sex, when they tán vestidos con colores llamativos que incluye Lo llaman así por que hay mucho/as dueño/as una isla que permite unas vacaciones sin es- can publicly date and marry them? However, el emblema de igualdad. Nos vamos, después de casas que son de la comunidad gay; acaba trés. Cabe decir que hay otros municipios de in the case of straight men who hire transgen- de guardar la compra, a caminar. Durante la de abrir un hotel W; hay muchas casas de alo- Puerto Rico que son islas, mucho más peque- der escorts, their paying and keeping their liai- caminata, al centro del pueblo, veo a las pare- jamientos que son manejadas o son de gente ños que Vieques como Culebra, pero no les sons secret is the norm. jas que vimos en el aeropuerto tomándose un gay y lesbianas; hay una compañía de alquil- puedo decir que abiertos son a la comunidad Does the no-child-left-behind law include trago en la plaza del pueblo y nos acercamos er de autos de una lesbiana y su esposa; hay GLBT ya que hace tiempo que no las visito. or exclude transgender children? The conflict a ellos. Nos presentamos y le pregunto cómo cocineros gays y lesbianas que han hecho de Lo que le puedo decir es que lo que yo viví es created by the trans-gender teen lifestyle with- encontraron este sitio, al ellos no ser de Puerto este pueblo su aposento y demuestran su arte una comunidad abierta a la diversidad. in their family and at school still exists today. Rico, y simplemente nos contestaron, “este es culinario; y hay dos agencias de bienes raíces Sugiero que vayan y visiten a Vieques en All the problems that occur within a trans- el P-Town del Caribe”. ¿De Verdad? ¡Wow, cuyos propietarios son gente LGBT. su próximo viaje a Puerto Rico. La gente gender’s lifestyle create a domino-like effect; estoy asombrado! Estoy de viaje en Vieques, Las riquezas de Vieques son muchas. La de Vieques necesita de nosotros y nosotros pushing them further down the ladder of life, le llaman la isla municipio de Puerto Rico y bahía fosforescente en Vieques es una de las necesitamos de unas vacaciones con comidas/ until they reach the bottom rung, ending up in restaurantes excelentes, historia increíble, pla- algunos en la comunidad GLBT la consideran mejores en el Caribe (más grande y brillante prostitution; this might be their last choice in como el nuevo destino gay en el Caribe. que la de Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, ya que no yas maravillosas y gente del ambiente LGBT. Ayuda mientras te ayudas a ti mismo en una life to help themselves survive economically, Vieques es un municipio, a unas 7 millas de se pueden usar motores de gasolina dentro de especially during these bad economic times. la isla de Puerto Rico y unas 52 millas cuadra- la misma); esta bahía es una de cinco en el isla llena de encanto. Visita Vieques para que puedas decir, “¡Wow estoy asombrado/a!” Life must go on—no matter what fate awaits das de grande. Este municipio tiene una his- mundo entero. La vida marítima incluye espe- them—especially when society doesn’t seri- cies en peligro de extinción y también espe- toria mixta de tainos, esclavos, españoles y ously fight for the trans-gender minority. americanos. Este pueblo es más conocido por cies autóctonas y únicas del Mar Caribe y del *Escrito en ambos idiomas por Wilfred W. los argumentos y alto número de arrestos de Océano Atlántico. Hay unas playas con arenas Labiosa; editado por Gricel Martínez Ocasio. blancas, caballos silvestres, aguas azules cris- *Half-Lady Lisa is the author of ‘The Psy- personas demostrando en contra del gobierno chological & Social Barriers Behind the Sexu- de E.U. y la marina. Por muchos años, cientos talinas, cavernas naturales submarinas, gente To read the English version of this story, amigable, comida excelente, el Fuerte Girasol, please visit: www.therainbowtimesmass.com/ al Secrets of Straight Men’ and ‘Midnight Life de personas fueron arrestado/as por hacer dem- in Chinatown’. ostraciones en contra de la marina. La marina recuerdos históricos y una isla llena de cultura latinvision_may6.

blog • chat personals calendar resources breaking news advertise & more ... therainbowtimes news.com blog • chat personals calendar resources breaking news advertise & more ... www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • 19 Research Reveals both the Strengths and Challenges of Gay and Lesbian Families By: Tynan Power/TRT Reporter collaborations attest. Her research has even been lar overall well-being, social skills, cog- When she was working on her Ph.D. in Clinical used in a California court case challenging Propo- nitive abilities, and family function. Psychology at UMass Amherst, Dr. Abbie Gold- sition 8, which prohibits gay marriage. The timing There are also some important differ- berg was surprised to discover there was very of her research couldn’t be better, as focus on gay ences in the experiences of gay and les- little research about gay and lesbian experiences and lesbian families has increased dramatically in bian families. of the transition to parenthood. recent years. For example, factors that contribute to “There are hundreds and hundreds of articles “Gay parents are increasingly choosing to be well-being for gay and lesbian couples about heterosexual parents,” Goldberg says. At out,” Goldberg says. may not matter to heterosexual couples. the time, though, there were virtually none about There are also simply more gay and lesbian Living in a gay-friendly neighborhood same-sex parents. Since then, Goldberg’s research parents. and in a state with laws that support adop- has helped fill that void. “In 1990, 1 in 20 gay couples and 1 in 5 lesbian tion by same-sex couples are factors that Now a professor of couples were raising children. By 2000, 1 in 5 gay have a positive impact on the transition to psychology at Clark couples and 1 in 3 lesbian couples had children,” parenthood for gay and lesbian couples, University and au- Goldberg explains. Goldberg says. Another is having a gay- thor of Lesbian and According to Goldberg, there are three pri- friendly employer. Photo: tynan power gay parents and their mary ways that gay and lesbian couples become There are other differences in gay and Myra Smith, STCC Vice President of Human Resources children: Research on parents: through previous heterosexual relation- lesbian families, as well. and Multicultural Affairs at STCC, Dr. Abbie Goldberg, the family life cycle, ships, through insemination and through adop- “Lesbian and gay couples share child- and Ira H. Rubenzahl, STCC President Goldberg returned tive or foster parenting. Once they become par- care and housework more equally,” to the area to pres- ents, Goldberg’s research suggests that gay and Goldberg says. She says same-sex cou- that does occur is more likely to be about their ent about her work at lesbian parents experience a similar transition to ples don’t fall into traditional divisions of labor. families or sexuality. Springfield Technical parenthood. “Traditional gender roles go out the window.” Children of gays and lesbians are more sensi- Community College, “Everybody is stressed out,” Goldberg says of However, that’s not the only reason Goldberg tive to homophobia, according to Goldberg. This STCC, on April 27. the early stage of parenting. “New gay, lesbian has found for more equitable divisions of labor. awareness may lead them to activism. Others may To mark the event, and straight parents all show a mild decline in “Gay and lesbian couples value equality in their hide their families to avoid having to come out Dominic Sarno, Photo: Abbie Goldberg mental health.” repeatedly to people who simply Mayor of Springfield, Dr. Abbie Goldberg Mental health figures improve assume that all kids have straight issued a proclamation when parents have the support of “Being gay itself is not the problem for parents. naming Thursday, April 27, 2010, “Dr. Abbie family and friends, when couples “They tend to be more tolerant Goldberg Day” in honor of her work. are satisfied with their relationship parents or their children,” Goldberg of differences and have more em- “I was drawn to something that was understud- and when they start parenting with pathy for other stigmatized minor- ied and had potential benefit for people’s lives,” a younger child. says. “Institutionalized heterosexism is.” ity groups,” she says. They also Goldberg says of her research on gay and lesbian Similarly, studies show that gay may be more flexible about gender families. and lesbian parents share important traits with relationships more than heterosexual couples do,” roles, such as in career aspirations and hobbies. She knew that studies showed that the transi- heterosexual parents. Goldberg says. Ultimately, Goldberg says, gay and lesbian par- tion to parenthood is both exciting and stressful. “As parents, they are just as skilled, just as warm Gay and lesbian couples do face unique chal- ents and their children are developing well. Research had documented that new parents suffer and involved. They are just as committed. They lenges, according to Goldberg. For example, they “Being gay itself is not the problem for parents from lack of sleep, have less time for their rela- love their children just as much,” Goldberg says. may have less support from family, initially, but or their children,” Goldberg says. “Institutional- tionship as a couple and have virtually no per- She adds that they have similar mental health and some report that support increases after children ized heterosexism is.” sonal time for themselves. Women, in particular, similar levels of happiness in their relationships, enter the picture. have less time for themselves as they tend to take with lesbian couples reporting the highest rela- “A cute little baby is really different from the More information about Dr. Abbie Goldberg’s on more childcare and household responsibilities. tionship satisfaction rate of all couples studied. idea of a possible child,” Goldberg says. work can be found at: http://www.clarku.edu/ Yet all these studies applied exclusively to hetero- The children of gay and lesbian couples are also The children of gays and lesbians do have some faculty/goldberg. One current projects seeks sexual couples. similar to children raised by heterosexual parents, experiences that differ from those of their peers participants who are adopting for the first time; Goldberg has found there is plenty of interest according to Goldberg. She says children from with straight parents. While they are not more another is open to youth aged 14-26 who have in her work, as her numerous publications and gay, lesbian and heterosexual families have simi- likely to be teased, according to Goldberg, teasing gay, lesbian or bisexual parents. Out of Town: A glimpse at some of the beautiful National Parks of the Southwest By: Andrew Collins* sometimes take away from the tremendous those who’ve never been often feel they have Joshua Tree National Park, California Visitation at America’s best-known national diversity of its terrain, from the cooler high a good sense of it. Still, it’s nearly impossible (www.nps.gov/jotr) parks has skyrocketed in recent years, so it’s mountains peaks (some with elevations above to comprehend the full splendor of this mas- A short drive from the world-famous gay no surprise that these monuments to natural 10,000 feet) that overlook the valley to the un- sive chasm that’s 18 miles across, 300 miles resort Palm Springs, this 800,000-acre park at scenery and wide-open spaces have become dulating sand dunes near Stovepipe Wells. long, and over a mile deep - it must be seen to the convergence of the deathly hot Colorado increasingly popular with gays and lesbians. You could explore Death Valley for a full be believed. and slightly cooler Mojave deserts feels miles Whether you’re into camping, serious hiking week and never A surprising away from civilization. It looks almost lunar and off-road trekking, or you’re more likely to come close to see- number of visi- like in places. Of course, it’s famous for the stay in a romantic lodge, check out the park ing all of the park’s tors come by for thousands of curious-looking Joshua trees for museums and spend most of your time in your notable sites - the a day, stop by a which the park is named. These distinctive car, you’ll be happy to know that most national remains of historic few viewpoints, members of the lily family grow about an inch parks offer a balance of both mellow and rigor- borax works, hikes and continue on. If a year and bloom winsome white flowers ever ous diversions. through the dra- at all possible, try so rarely. The southwestern United States, from the matically colored to spend at least This aside, seeing a Joshua tree is but a sweeping deserts of interior Southern Califor- rock formations of a couple of days minor reason to visit. There are several sce- nia to the spectacular rock formations, deep Mosaic Canyon, here. The South nic drives - the 6-mile spur out to 5,100-foot canyons and craggy cliffs of Arizona and costumed tours Rim is the most Keys View affords breathtaking vistas over Utah, contains several of the nation’s most cel- of the remote and accessible than the entire Coachella Valley. Several short ebrated national parks. Here’s a look at some eccentric 1920s its higher-altitude but fascinating trails penetrate the park’s of the most impressive. mansion known counterpart, the myriad ecosystems: a brief scramble through as Scotty’s Castle. North Rim (which the Cholla Cactus Garden will introduce you Death Valley National Park, California This is one park, Photo: Andrew Collins is also closed in to the regional flora, while the 1.3-mile High (www.nps.gov/deva) because of its Mosaic Canyon, in Death Valley National Park winter). On an View Nature Trail entails a 300-foot ascent to Covering an astounding 5,200 square miles enormity, where it ideal visit to the magnificent Summit Peak. Longer trails past (making it just slightly smaller than the state can be very helpful to book a guided excur- South Rim, you’ll stay at one of the several piles of massive boulders and by oasis like hot of Connecticut), Death Valley National Park sion - Pink Jeep Tours offers informative trips lodging options inside the park (book many springs offer the possibility of spying bighorn is immense in scope - it contains the lowest around the park in modern, comfortable, fully months in advance if you’re planning a sum- sheep and golden eagles. point in the United States, Badwater Basin, enclosed vehicles. mer visit), hike at least part of the way into the a salty, mud-caked spot that you can walk to canyon, and ride the park shuttle bus along the *Andrew Collins covers gay travel for the easily from the road. And it claims the hottest Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona rim, stopping at the many noteworthy viewing New York Times-owned website About.com summer temperatures in the country (late fall (www.nps.gov/grca) areas. If you have extra time, consider riding and is the author of Fodor’s Gay Guide to the through early spring are mild and comfort- It’s fair to say that enough has been written the scenic Grand Canyon Railway from the USA. He can be reached care of this publica- able, however). But the park’s extreme aspects and said about the Grand Canyon that even town of Williams, about 60 miles south. tion or at [email protected]. 20 • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com 2010

NoHo Pride 2010: On fire this year! Approximately, 15,000 people at- contrast to past years, the Northamp- tended NoHo Pride 2010 last Satur- ton Pride march was transformed day to celebrate Pride in Northamp- into NoHo Pride’s Parade and the ton, MA. This year, the number of celebratory ambiance reflected such patrons, floats and booths were at a change. Congratulations to Bear, an all time high. Some vendors, Cid White, NoHo Pride Director according to NoHo Pride officials, were not able to secure a booth due and Treasurer respectively, and the to the fact that they were sold out, NoHo Pride Board of Directors, despite having re-arranged the site Committee members and volunteers to accommodate for more spaces. for their outstanding work in this NoHo Pride 2010 secured hun- year’s festivities. dreds of vendors, fantastic entertain- NoHo Pride will be producing ment, and perhaps the largest parade various events throughout the year ever. It was also memorable because to prepare and raise funds for NoHo of the diversity of its entertainment Pride’s 30th Anniversary, which line-up, Emcees and the crowd in will be a weekend-long celebration. general. Attendance was abundant and the summer-like weather pro- Stay tuned to The Rainbow Times to duced what appears to be a record learn more about NoHo Pride’s 30th turnout for the day’s festivities. Anniversary, upcoming events and Main St. in downtown Northampton updated information. To become was packed with onlookers for the involved in NoHo Pride visit: http:// 29th Annual NoHo Pride Parade. In www.site.nohopride.org/

All photos by Bill Berggren except vehicle photo below, by Melinda Shaw. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • 21 The Postwoman at the Boston LGBT Film Festival Boston—Written, edited, filmed, and di- gap. I wanted to humanize queer women of Hollywood and Education Resource Center’s Can Learn to Love Themselves and Signifyin’ rected by J.D. Walker, “The Postwoman” is color on screen and enable them to see images Sistas are Doin’ it For Themselves Film Fes- Me: New and Selected Poems. Although she a short, LGBT romantic comedy, which will of themselves on screen.” The production of tival on Friday, April 17, 2010. It will also freelances for a number of different magazines screen at The Boston LGBT Film Festival dur- “The Postwoman” was fully funded by Walker screen at Black Pride festivals throughout the and newspapers, she considers filmmaking her ing the “Women’s Shorts” Program on Friday, with a total budget of $2500.00. Those funds country. Walker’s film is just starting out on true passion. Walker’s desire is to direct and May 14, 2010 at 6:30pm. The film will screen were used to purchase the GL-1 the film festival circuit. So far, write more feature-length films. She aims to at The Boston Museum of Fine Arts. “The camera, which was used to film it will also be featured at The turn “THE POSTWOMAN” into a TV series Postwoman” centers around the life of Nia the shoot, as well as lighten- Queer Women of Color Film or feature length film. Walker is currently (Mahasin Munir), a 30s graphic designer, who ing equipment and software to Festival in SF, CA on Friday seeking distribution and funding. “It would is unhappy in her current relationship. Seek- the edit the film. Walker’s first June 11, 2010, and will also be nice to see our film make it into the Wolfe ing affirmation and purpose, Nia develops a film is an ambitious one, as she be featured at the 1st Annual Video catalogue,” says Walker. “It would steamy crush on her neighborhood Postwoman served as writer, director, cin- SF Pride Comedy Festival, and also be nice to finally give this audience a (Tish MacCullough) who shows her the true ematographer, and editor of her the Queer Women of Color film that they can identify with and relate to. I meaning of unconditional love. With the help short piece. Currently, Walker Weekend Conference in Prov- think that’s important because it helps to build of The Postwoman, Nia is able to confront her is trying to raise funds/capital, incetown, MA. The film wills community.” painful past and learn how to finally love the as well as sponsors, in order to screen at The Boston LGBT Walker decided to direct the short film be- God within her. turn her short film into a Feature Film Festival on Friday, May, cause she feels as though the complex and Filmed on location in Oakland, California, film. She has sent up a page on 14, 2010. Walker will find out myriad stories of women of color, who are in “The Postwoman” was shot in 10 days. The Indiegogo.com to draw spon- which other film festivals her the life, have yet to be told. While the short project began during Fall 2009 in a Queer sors and support for her film, as film has been accepted to in centers around an affair the main character, Women of Color Film class, offered by the well as a Twitter page (@Post- June. Nia, has with her neighborhood Postwoman, Queer Women of Color Media Arts Project, womanMovie) and Facebook Originally, from Oakland, the feature version of the short, which was which is located in San Francisco, California, Group for fans of the short film. California, Walker graduated complete by Walker in March, chronicles that Walker was registered for. Walker decid- Indeed, many feature length magna cum laude from San Nia’s journey to find self-love. In the longer ed to direct the film because she saw a lack of films originally started out as J.D. Walker Francisco State University, version of the film, Nia does not end up with films in the industry for Queer Women of Col- shorts, and Walker aims to bring where she studied Theater Arts The Postwoman. She delves deeper into her- or, particularly Wolfe Video. “I love the Wolfe “The Postwoman” to the big screen. and Black Studies. She received both her self and realizes that the true love she is seek- video catalogue,” says, J.D. Walker, “but I For more details about the origins of this Masters and Ph.D. with distinction in Afri- ing must come from within. can’t recall many films featuring an all queer piece, please visit us on the web at: www. can American and Caribbean Literature from women of color cast or all African American imdb.com/title/tt1578770/. Howard University. Walker has published two Walker may be contacted directly through woman cast. I wrote this film to help close that “The Postwoman” premiered at The Black books of her own, 101 Ways Black Women her email: [email protected]

become a friend today at ... facebook.com/therainbowtimesnews 22 • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Pink Adult Entertainment: Juicy Pink Box glams up Lesbian adult films By: Lara Connelly and the vulgar gay-for-pay porn made to fulfill be “Therapy,” a series of The adult entertainment industry hasn’t the fantasies of straight men,” explains Jincey. ten self-pleasure scenes changed much in its long history. For years, “The women of Digiromp.com hungered for that take place in a ther- films were made by-men-for-men, with little ambience and atmosphere. We craved to see apist’s office. It’s a fasci- consideration for the needs of women. Finally, ladies in gorgeous wardrobes and styling that nating journey inside the that is about to change. Jincey Lumpkin, Esq. highlighted their shapes and curves. We want- women’s minds as each and her brand, Juicy Pink Box, are introduc- ed to experience the power of a true connec- visit to talk about her in- ing a new form of adult entertainment: high tion, and enjoy multi-sensory stimulation that dividual connection to sex. quality, stylish and immensely sensual prod- slowly guided us to climax.” Viewers learn what excites uct by-ladies-for-ladies who love ladies. Juicy She also realized the internet offered a new the women, scares them, Pink Box is glamorizing lesbian sex by pre- convenience for women. “There is nothing and what makes them wet. senting erotic encounters in an uptown chic less sexy to a woman than walking into a According to Jincey, way. It may just seedy sex shop today’s women are more change the way with creepy guys liberated about discussing the world views ogling at you their sexual practices. As lesbians. while you buy evidenced in the popular- “Our films are porn,” she says. ization of hit TV series seductive and “It’s easier to log like Sex and the City and beautifully craft- on and watch in The L Word, “Women ed cinema,” says the privacy and love being sexy and they Jincey, a two comfort of your are embracing all things time Georgia home.” related to sex.” debutante who As the Boss That is why Juicy Pink landed a job in Lady and Chief Box is more than its adult New York City Sexy Officer of film offerings. “Juicy Pink as a fashion at- Photo: Anja Kostler Juicy Pink Box, Box is a lifestyle,” Jincey torney but gained Jett Bleu stars in Juicy Pink Box’s next release, THERAPY Jincey Lumpkin, continues. “It’s about liv- fame writing an Esq. oversees ing the fantasy of an ex- Photo: JuicyPinkBox.com anonymous sex blog. The blog lead to Jincey all facets of her films’ production and makes clusive world that features Jincey ditching law and launching Digiromp.com, the sure that the women stars in them are always glamorous ladies who love in control and empowered. ladies.” are for women who crave intense sensuality, popular social networking site where women soft caresses, and gentle seduction. If you are share their erotic lesbian experiences. It was Juicy Pink Box released its first feature film, It’s being compared to Hugh Hefner’s Play- Taxi, earlier this year. It was the first to take boy. As Hef in his smoking jacket once rep- a woman who finds women super sexy and through Digiromp.com that Jincey learned she you fantasize about their curves or their lips wasn’t the only lesbian who found the girl-on- stars from the dyke porn genre and style them resented the quintessential bachelor, Jincey in into something more classically beautiful. her cocktail dress and Gucci heels represents on your lips, then we’re here and we welcome girl porn being sold in stores unappealing. you to explore a new frontier.” “The only films available at the time were the Jincey describes the film as “like Bertolucci … the modern day femme on top of the world. rough dyke porn coming out of San Francisco except with fisting.” “The glamorous world of Juicy Pink Box The next feature, releasing this summer, will is not for everyone,” Jincey cautions. “We For more information, visit juicypinkbox.com. Bi now Gay later? Is there a defining line?A dividing moment? By: Max Jiminez Raven O Killian Wells Ron Perkov When “Real World DC’s” Mike Manning Androgynous Bi Pop Star Out Singer came under attack for his bisexuality last Superstar “I find it hypocriti- “There are so many month, he responded to AfterElton.com that “A hole is a hole cal when one of my different types of “For whatever reason, God made me attracted when the lights are gay friends will say love. Instead of la- icity l

off. I’m sure “his ho- ords bisexuality doesn’t beling, just be. As

to both sexes. That’s just how it is. I’m more b c u liness” the Pope has exist and in the next the title of my new p

attracted to guys, and I’ll admit that. I’ll ad- the answer to whether breath say how they rle dance single says, ‘It ct mit that to you in an interview, and I’ll admit a or not bisexuality is want to “convert” Doesn’t Matter’.” s C s erno re erno

that on national television. I don’t know where i f roje

real. I don’t. I believe n someone because no- people get the impression that I’m too insecure p i

o: o: after a few drinks, o: body is completely lu o: to admit that I’m gay.” t t t o anything’s possible.” o straight. Aren’t they o The “people” Manning is referring to is the h h h LGBT community. Why do so many in the P P basically saying ev- P community – especially gay men – have a hard eryone is bisexual? I time buying bi? Is it because too many mo’s Jincey Lumpkin may be considered bisexual by society’s stan- c Leah Driscoll ,ll have used bisexuality as a way to dip their toe Juicy Pink Box dards but I prefer no label. I’m simply attracted t Pop Star/ “I once called my- to people, not their gender. I don’t think bisex- en Hetero Fag Hag before diving head first into gaydom? Or, do m most gay men fervently believe that once guys self bisexual, but that ual is a transitional sexual orientation.” n “It seems most tai

m was before I had ever people who call them- er go gay, they stay? We polled an assortment of o t prominent members of the community, repre- c had a serious girl- DJ Seth Gold selves bisexual tend to en ox. t senting all the letters of the LGBT community b friend. Once I fell in Gay Spinner lean towards gay over er b (and even a fag hag for good measure), for nk love, I realized that I “I think if you talk time. People don’t never had that deep to a man who has want to believe in bi- their position on bisexuality. ro n icypi kind of connection been partnered with a sexuality. We want

o: ju o: with a man, and I another man for 20 clear cut, black and o: se o: tt

Jonathan Crutchley t t o o o

knew I was gay. But c years, he’s going to white answers to ev- h Manhunt Founder h “Whenever I’m P it took me 25 years tell you “there’s only P erything. Bisexuality ke s ke

to find out. A lot a gay.” On the other leaves a lot of people

single, I’m looking l to date straight mar- of people think they are bisexual when they b hand, if you talk to a seeing gray. We also have a need to label peo- o: o:

might truly be gay because they have been t 20-year-old in college ple - you against me, us against them. I think

ried men or guys with o n conditioned to believe that being gay is wrong. h who has a girlfriend the idea of bisexuality makes people uncom- girlfriends. In fact, P ba my current boyfriend I grew up in a very small town in Georgia, and a male hookup on fortable. In the end, I don’t think it’s really and there was not a single gay or lesbian liv- the side, he’ll swear up and down that bisexu- anyone’s job to judge the feelings of others.”

er ur er of ten years had a t

e girlfriend when we ing openly out of the closet. Not one. It was ality is absolutely possible. Beliefs are based p pre-Ellen, so I had absolutely no idea that there on one’s own experience. I think most gays

o: o: met. He left her and t

o moved in with me and were other women in the world who had feel- don’t believe in bisexuality because they feel h P is now fully gay – or ings for women. I didn’t know what a lesbian so strongly and proud about being gay. I, how- so I hope. I believe was! I learned about lesbians from the Howard ever, believe bisexuality is real.” TRT’s DJ Top 10 bisexuality is real.” Stern Show. therainbowtimesnews.com www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • 23 The OutField: Fighting homophobia in the sports world By: Dan Woog* wich – Fashanu’s hometown. They met with of homophobic language. But despite their ef- In New Westminster, British Columbia, the ustin Fashanu is officials of the Football Association, Britain’s forts, the response from top teams was a pro- Douglas Students’ Union will speak to college known for several governing body. nounced silence. Not one player volunteered sports science classes. Members will also hand Jthings. In 1981 he Then, with a website (www.thejustincam- to appear in a planned video campaign against out brochures, water bottle stickers and pins to became Britain’s first paign.com) and some committed volunteers, homophobia. raise awareness of sexuality and athletics. million-pound black they targeted a day in the middle of the soccer Gordon Taylor, president of the 4,000-mem- Across the nation in Burlington, Ontario, the soccer player. In 1990 season (and Britain’s LGBT History Month). ber Professional Footballers’ Association (the Halton Organization for PRIDE and Education he became the first pro- They hoped clubs, players and fans around the British players’ union), responded to newspa- has involved local sports figures to attend their fessional soccer player world would unite on Feb. 19, bringing com- per reports that players feared being ridiculed International Day festivities. Manitoba’s Civil to come out as gay. munities together “in opposing hate and intol- by opponents – as well as fans – if they partici- Service Commission will host a lunch-and-learn And in 1998 he erance in the world’s favorite sport.” pated in the video. session on homophobia – and transphobia. killed himself. The day kicked off in Norwich. The Justin Taylor said: “Everybody assumes (soccer Many of the International Day efforts are In 2010, English Campaign’s own soccer team was there, along players) are full of confidence, but it is not easy non-sport-specific. Gay-Straight Alliances will soccer is filled with with Fashanu’s niece and the president of the on issues like this. Remember, there was a time hand out information, hang posters and con- Dan Woog black stars. But Justin Norwich club. Two members of Parliament when even black players did not feel they could duct seminars. The Alberta Teachers’ Associa- Fashanu stands alone blew whistles to start the matches. talk about race.” tion plans to distribute posters and pamphlets as “the gay professional.” In Liverpool, the Merseyside Marauders – a English soccer is “a beacon of diversity with to educators. Edmonton’s’ Institute for Sexual Little has changed in 20 years – and prospects gay club – celebrated. So did Edinburgh’s gay players from many backgrounds, countries and Minority Studies and Services is screening look dim for the next 20. International soccer HotScots. continents,” Taylor added: “It is unacceptable “Beyond Gay: The Politics of Pride.” Informa- is a tough place, both physically and mentally. There was a flashmob-style photo op in Man- for them to be subjected to abusive chanting, tion will be displayed on the main floor lobby In hopes of speeding things along – or at least chester, organized by PrideSports and Queer be it racist or homophobic whilst they play. I of the Winnipeg Tax Centre. making the soccer world less homophobic Youth Network. Other events took place in applaud the ongoing work in this area.” Individually, all this may not sound like – a group called The Justin Campaign went to Sussex and Exeter. Peter Clayton, chair of the FA’s Homopho- much. But that’s not the point. Knowledge is work. Internationally, the Justin Campaign spurred bia in Football advisory group – and openly power. Their goal is to “challenge the stereotypes a match in Barcelona (with speeches from lo- gay – placed the blame on agents and clubs. “A And who knows what Justin Fashanu’s life and misconceptions that exist around gay men cal politicians), while in Mexico City the Tri player coming forward to appear in it would might have been like if – back in the day – he’d in (soccer) and work toward a future where the Gay Mexico team played the semifinal of their feel he might ignite more vitriol,” he said. come across just one of those posters, informa- visibility of gay and bisexual men in profession- city’s gay soccer tournament under the “Foot- Closer to home, a similar campaign is gath- tion tables or presentations? al (soccer) are both accepted and celebrated.” ball vs. Homophobia” banner. ering steam. Canadian-based “Speaking About During the past two years they sponsored The Justin Campaign suggested that profes- Silence: Homophobia in the Sports World” *Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, soccer two tournaments, for players of all sexual sional clubs display the Justin Campaign logo is part of a broader-based International Day coach, gay activist, and author of the “Jocks” orientations. The Justin Campaign hosted an with a message of support on their websites, Against Homophobia, set for May 17. series of books on gay male athletes. Visit his evening talk in Brighton, around the topic of put the logo on scoreboards during games, in- Its bilingual website (www.homophobie.org) Web site at www.danwoog.com. He can be homophobia in soccer. They played a promi- clude the logo and information in match-day lists a number of activities across the country reached care of this publication or at Out- nent role in the first-ever Pride Festival in Nor- programs, and post signs condemning the use – but only a few involve athletics. [email protected]. therainbowtimesnews.com • therainbowtimesnews.com • therainbowtimesnews.com • therainbowtimesnews.com 24 • May 6, 2010 - May 19, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com