Year 1, Vol. 11 • July 5-18, 2007 www.therainbowtimesmass.com The FREE! Street Sense: Will MA overturn CT PRIDE: Diversity, Pride RainbowTimes the 1913 marriage law? and unity at Bushnell Park p. p. 12 Your LGBTQ News Source in Western MA, Southern VT, and Northern CT 2 JESSE Molina NORTHAMPTON’S rising ROCK STAR speaks out! p.3

When the student BECOMES the teacher: CCOOMMIINNGG OOUUTT, love & race p. 16

FIERCE ON what REALLY happened to 4 CONVICTED LESBIANS p. 13 JFK’s best friend a p. 13 GAY man? p.2 1ST analysis of PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES’ positions ON LGBT issues p. 5 2 • July 5-18, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com Opinions Street Sense: Will Massachusetts overturn the 1913 Love, Rights…and the Rest of It law that prevents out of state couples from marry- By JM the JP* people into ing in the commonwealth? Why or why not? TRT Columnist doing their onsider this Part III of the dis- bidding, and “I think that if two peo- Unfortunately politics cussion about fear as a primary they insinuate ple love each other is really complicated. force towards doing harm in the that one is not they should be married, Certainly, I think it C moral or regardless of their would garner a lot world. Previously, I wrote about this in race, gender…I don’t more public support to terms of coming out and the marriage patriotic if think the 1913 law overturn that kind of debate at the State House. you disagree should stay… there’s a law because we have Bullying is a means of exercising with them. problem there only if made a lot of progress power and control oppressively, and it As this house they move back to towards combating stems from a place of fear. Its preva- J.M. the JP of cards con- where they were, then the laws don’t apply to them, racism and it’s much lence can be found most overtly in the tinues to fall, I so it really makes no sense in letting out of staters more socially acceptable for interracial couples to current White House administration. As hope that our sleepy, spoiled American marry, if when they move back the laws don’t apply marry at this time. So in all fairness, they should be society will wake up and learn big les- to them, then why get married to begin with.” able to overturn it. Who knows what will happen. with fear, a sense of entitlement runs sons. As with colonization, we will have —Alan Yebernetsky, Northampton —Dr. Sarada Shanti , Northampton hand in hand with bullying. Justification reigns supreme in this residual effects and will need to examine “If they can’t do it in “I hope so. I feel that form of bullying, and it is subject to just how much of our democracy has their own state, they it’s kind of the new shifting as social norms change. For been destroyed by this pack of bullies. have to be able to do it social rights move- instance, slavery has been justified by On a personal level, can we each be somewhere right? It’s ment. I feel that the considering that whole groups of people brave and lovingly righteous? I have stupid. You shouldn’t law is unfair. It was called attention to bullies and injustice, be able to tell people started on premises are inferior to others. Misogyny and who they can marry that are now blatantly, homophobia are examples of how one and, yes, I have paid a certain price for and who they can’t obviously wrong, and group in power can bully/oppress anoth- being who I am. The balance is that my marry. That’s love. You those premises are er group by justifying “pre-destined soul and sense of integrity do not suffer can’t choose who wrong to a lot of peo- roles” or “abnormalities” in those this. I encourage readers to send me you’re in love with, you can’t choose if you’re gay ple nowadays to the people it refers to. So I hope it groups. your personal stories of courage. or straight or whatever. I really hope that the legis- gets repealed. I think that we should be the state This is especially dangerous because lature overturns it.” that offers someone a fairly legal means to try and * J.M. Sorrell is a Justice of the Peace. She —Erin Torrey, Belchertown get legal rights in their own state. I think that would these large groups of oppressors encour- believes that our individual actions are sig- be awesome.” age its individuals to become everyday —Riley Liptak, Northampton bullies in both explicit and insidious nificant and will greatly affect the peace and ways. How many bullies are walking well-being of our planet. around on the planet? Letter to the editor:John F. Kennedy’s I am particularly interested in those of us who take on the bullies and who are The Rainbow Times life-long friendship with a gay man unable to watch as a powerless person or 13 Old South St. • Suite 2C animal is prey to the bully. This is no Dear Editor: ble sex partners. The author covers this Northampton, MA 01060 small thing. The bully is clever at emit- The May issue of Houston's OutSmart issue this way: "That's one point I tried to ting a mystique that the price to pay will www.therainbowtimesmass.com Magazine has an article based on a new make in the book in one of the chapters. [email protected] be very big if the bully is outed. book, by David Pitts, Jack and Lem: John Ironically, in some ways gay people had [email protected] The Bush administration has demon- Phone: 413-204-8959 • Fax: 866-310-8512 F.Kennedy and Lem Billings-the untold more license at that time than they do strated this over and over again. They story of an extraordinary friendship,pub- now. Homosexuality wasn't on the radar have shamelessly threatened and bullied Publisher Viviana Valiente lished by Carroll Graf. screen, the general population wasn't Gricel M. Ocasio Jane Hamel My question to not only the homosexu- really aware of it, and so, in a sense, gay Connecticut Pride Editor-In-Chief Jack/ie Kennedy al community, but to all those journalists, people could do certain things, such as Nicole Lashomb Writers: Lindsay Wilson gets rave reviews Sales & since the 60s, and the dozens of histori- the example you gave, and it did not (Street Sense) By: Nicole Lashomb Distribution ans and authors who made lots of money come under suspicion the way it clearly J.M. Sorrell writing about President Kennedy and all would today." TRT Editor-in-Chief Ben Peterson ith over 10,000 attendees, CT Pride Photos:* the Kennedys, is, why has no one told the So, those people who complained that Columnists: Connecticut Pride was a suc- Dr. Renee Lang Anthony Bennoch public this before? once Mattachine stopped being secret, Wcess in every sense of the Atty. Jennifer Webmaster: I think the media also hid the many and became public as ONE Magazine, word this year. As the phoenix rises up Dexter Jarred Johnson women President Kennedy had sex with, their easy find of partners would be hurt, from the ashes, so does CT Pride due to but they finally talked about that. Perhaps had a point. its hard work and dedication to the The Rainbow Times is published by The Rainbow Times, LLC. The articles written by the writers, heterosexual Writers didn't think Lem Can heterosexual men and women have LGBTQ community. columnists, and correspondents express their opin- was of interest. close friendships with gay men and Dozens of people that I spoke with that ion, and do not represent the endorsement or opin- A major issue is that the most powerful women without being called homosexu- day stated that they were more than ion of The Rainbow Times, LLC or its owners. To person in the world had a lifetime friend- al? Will this book be almost as important impressed with the ability of CT Pride, write letters to the editor, please send your letters, especially given its past history of having with your name, address and phone number to: The ship with a homosexual, and everyone in as Brokeback Mountain in getting all of Rainbow Times (address shown above), or e-mail to completely re-establish themselves as the White House, and the family mem- us to think about homosexuality? any comment/s to the editor at: editor@therainbow- a new entity, to achieve the evident suc- timesmass.com. All submissions will be edited bers all along, knew this, and so you have —Billy Glover cess of the day’s festivities. according to space constraints. The Rainbow Times, to ask why no one mentioned this all LLC reserves the right not to print any or all con- Billy Glover is the co-founder of the The entertainment line-up was phe- these years. tent, or advertisements for any reason at all. To Homosexual Information Center, which nomenal and the substantial number of receive The Rainbow Times at your home via regu- In addition, those who started this came out of ONE, Inc in 1965, derived quality vendors was more than impres- lar mail, or through electronic delivery, please visit movement [homosexual civil rights] sive. But, importantly, a largely diverse our website. The content and graphics (photos, etc.) from early Mattachine in 1952. For more were accused of alerting the public to LGBT community truly was “United for are the sole property of The Rainbow Times and it information, visit www.tangentgroup.org. cannot be reproduced at all without TRT’s consent. homosexuality and thus scaring off possi- Equality.” See photos of CT Pride on p. 12 www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • July 5-18, 2007 • 3 over C Story Jesse Molina: Her whole heart & passion By: Gricel M. Ocasio in LA, Irvine, and with a group called TRT Publisher Dykes on Mics, with Kelly Conway. The esse Molina, a lesbian singer from gypsy that I was, I then moved to Hawaii, Northampton whose lyrics have and performed around the Islands. In Jtrue meaning, will perform at the 2000, I began my move back to the East Iron Horse soon. With her unique singing Coast, stopping off in Davis, CA for two style, Jesse will win you with her talent years. I moved to Northampton in the fall right from the start. Jesse Molina is a true of 2002. singer that knows her music and shows Q: What is happening with your person- her passion through her meaningful song al life these days? lyrics. We sat down with Jesse in an A: Since moving to Northampton, I’ve exclusive inter- been preoccu- view with The “I can’t remember Him (Jesus) talking pied with rais- Rainbow Times about anything but love and yet, there is ing our daugh- with this true so much hate and hostility coming from ter and keeping Northampton les- the so-called “faith based” people with both princesses bian, to let others God (and money) on their side.” happy—I know what she —Jesse Molina know how my has to offer when wife will feel she blasts her music on stage. about me “outing her” as a Femme TRT (Q): When did you start Princess, but I must speak the Naked singing/writing? Truth! A message to other butches: “just JM (A): I started playing the guitar and say ‘yes dear’ a lot and you will be much writing songs at an early age. I learned to happier!” Let your motto be, “the femme play guitar and write songs listening to is always right!” folk and popular music and then in the Q: When did you come out of the closet? late 70’s and early 80’s there was this How was such an experience for you? huge impact of Womyn’s Music. I have a A: Interesting question! It just wasn’t memory of my mother yelling at me safe to be “out of the closet” during my Jesse Molina’s Back Piece “Why can’t they even spell Men?!” high school years. There certainly thing to help with the LGBT struggle? Massachusetts is the only state where it’s I always wrote poems and as I learned to weren’t any gay student groups or gay A: The Marry Me, I’ll Marry You song legally recognized! play the guitar and piano, I began to put friendly teachers to turn to. Gay kids was written in California right after a res- Q: What brought you to Northampton? them to music. I never liked the perform- were ostracized and beaten up (not that olution was passed in Woodland, CA that A: My wife and I picked Northampton ing as much as the creating and “jam- they still aren’t in many places around gays did not have the right to marry and because we figured it would be a good the world) and often, sent for psychiatric ming” with other musicians. I think a lot in fact should stop “wasting city council place to raise our daughter. The schools care. of performers have that weird yin/yang in time” with the issue. My wife and I have are good, and Northampton is one of My mother, God bless her, has come a common—an almost desperate need for married each other in three states, but those places where a multi-racial kid with long way since the day she wrapped her- attention and, at the same time, a kind of See Jesse on page 5 self around a tree crying hysterically insecurity and almost paranoia. You are when I tried to introduce her to the idea putting your heart, not just on your that I loved women and that my poor sleeve, but dangling it in front of people boyfriend was just a “prop.” It’s taken me for their judgment and critique and yet a long time to see from her perspective you might be surprised when some peo- that she was just worried and scared for ple love it and some people don’t. Some me. of the best moments have been just two It is hard to seek your family’s approval If you’ve ever considered being a Foster Parent… or three talented people jamming without and support and just not be able to get it an audience and lost in the music! no matter what you achieve or how much NOW is the time to do it. Q: Did you go to college? What do you you want it. Younger kids don’t have any remember about your college life? idea what that is like. I’m a little jealous Connecticut’s children need you more than ever. A: I was in college in Western Maryland and wonder what life would be like if I The Professional Parenting Program the summer my father died (1982) and I hadn’t spent so much time and energy provides comprehensive supports to foster families. had just begun to perform and play in trying to get my homophobic family to Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children with bands. I went to school and studied art accept and love me. It’s still painful and I and education. I think of those years as am not on real speaking terms with any special needs. “the lost years,” where I was a bit numb of the “born again Christians” in my Connecticut residents only. and wandering without my father. immediate family. Makes me wonder Q: When did you first begin perform- what WOULD Jesus do? I can’t remem- Please call us today (888) 968-4489 x134 ing? ber Him talking about anything but love A: I first began performing under the and yet, there is so much hate and hostil- name, Jesse X in D.C., but I ended up ity coming from the so-called “faith based” people with God (and money) on moving to California in about 1990, and their side. played in and around Southern Q: To that effect, have you done any- California. I performed at Pride Festivals 1764 Litchfield Turnpike • Woodbridge, CT 06525 • www.ippi.org 4 • July 5-18, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com lgbt Health Health care law reaches milestone: Nearly all must be insured By: Steve LeBlanc/AP • People making slightly more, up to Cassidy, 38, provides day care and her dollars, but the regulations needed to let BOSTON (AP)—The goal was as auda- three times the federal poverty level, can husband runs a small flooring operation. businesses create those accounts were cious as it was simple: Plug the holes in enroll in state subsidized plans. Before the law, they were spending more only approved earlier this month. Massachusetts’ health care network with- • Those making more than three times than $1,200 a month on health care for “For all that to be up and ready by July out resorting to the politically nuclear the federal poverty level—at least $30,630 themselves and their two small children. 1 ... is a Herculean task,” McAnneny said. option of a single government-funded pro- for an individual and $61,950 for a family Now, Cassidy said, they spend about Insurance companies also have found gram. of four—can choose their own coverage $969 a month with a policy purchased the law challenging, according to Marylou The result is a landmark insurance law from new, lower-cost private plans, if they through the Connector, a $250 savings. Buyse, president of the Massachusetts praised as innovative, derided as a house aren’t already insured through work. The state already has enrolled about Association of Health Plans. of cards and touted by former Gov. Mitt Massachusetts’ health care experiment 130,000 formerly uninsured people in “Insurers have worked very hard to put Romney as he runs for president. could spur or slow health care reform health care plans, virtually all of them in out attractive and affordable products,” As of July 1st, nearly everyone in efforts nationally depending on its success the free or subsidized plans. she said. “But if the new law is going to Massachusetts must be insured or face a or failure, said Drew Altman, president of The far more challenging task is per- work in the long run we all have to address series of increasing tax penalties. the Kaiser Family Foundation, which suading the estimated 160,000 still unin- the fundamental issues driving health care The law won’t result in universal cover- studies health policy. sured residents not eligible for subsidized costs.” age immediately, but the deadline is a crit- Key to that success is whether average plans to pay monthly premiums. Even the The new state budget has $472 million ical mile marker. people embrace the idea of an “individual lower cost plans can run several hundred to cover the subsidized plans, and Kirwan “July 1 is really a call to action,” said mandate”—the requirement that they dollars a month. said that number could rise. It’s hoped the Leslie Kirwan, chairwoman of the Health obtain health care. And while one recent poll found nine state could phase out its so-called “free Care Connector Authority Board, which “It has huge implications for other out of 10 residents were aware of the care” pool—money paid to hospitals for oversees implementation of the law. “We states, but even more importantly for the health care law, 49 percent said residents treating the uninsured—by moving people are looking to insure people, not penalize push for health care reform building shouldn’t be required to buy insurance. into insurance programs. them.” nationally,” said Altman. “It’s the first Companies with 11 or more workers “There will be glitches in it and there The law divides the population into real-world test of this idea of an individual must offer insurance or face annual fees of will be gaffes at some point, but if we three segments: mandate. This idea is either going to build $295 per worker. waited until every one of those things • The poorest, making less than the fed- steam or lose a lot steam.” One way they can satisfy that require- were nailed down, this would never get off eral poverty level, are eligible for free Amy Cassidy and her family have ment is to offer special accounts that allow the ground,” Kirwan said. care. already taken advantage of the new law. employees to buy insurance with pretax Will my TV set stop working after the switch to digital broadcasts? By: Peter Svensson/APTech. Writer verter boxes mentioned on the label are The price for a box is expected to be digitally, the NAB was able to demon- not yet available, but the National between $50 to $70, according to NAB strate the technology with the prototype Q: The TV set I just bought has a warn- Association of Broadcasters has shown spokeswoman Shermaze Ingram, but the converter boxes in New York City recent- ing label saying it will need a “converter off prototypes from LG Electronics and government will be issuing two $40 ly. Analog TV broadcasts are almost use- box” in 2009 because of a switch to digi- RCA. The smallest one, from LG, was coupons (actually plastic cards that work less there, because the signal from the tal broadcasting. What's that about? about the size of like gift cards) Empire State Building bounces between A: Those stickers, mandated by the a paperback to each house- other skyscrapers, interfering with itself. Federal Communications Commission, You won’t need a digital converter to book, but the watch cable or satellite TV, or play hold that asks The picture on a regular TV set connect- started appearing in May. What's happen- production ver- for them. Each ed to a rabbit ear antenna was very poor, ing is that on February 17, 2009, TV movies from DVD players or VCRs. Game sion may be consoles are also unaffected. coupon can be with “snow” all over the screen. broadcasters will be turning off their ana- smaller. used to defray The picture on a set that used a convert- log over-the-air broadcasts, the kind you You won’t need the cost of one er box to get digital broadcasts with the tune into with rabbit-ear antennas. a digital converter to watch cable or converter. Both the coupons and the con- same antenna was free of static, and The FCC is making the TV stations do satellite TV, or play movies from DVD verter boxes should be available in looked as crisp as if it was playing a this because digital broadcasting is much players or VCRs. Game consoles are also January, 2008. DVD. more efficient, using less of the valuable unaffected. This doesn't sound like good news for The digital broadcast also contains radio spectrum. The government will The boxes will go between the rabbit- the 20 million U.S. households that get some program information, so you will take that spectrum back and auction it off ear antenna and the TV set, converting only over-the-air TV, according to the be able to bring up a little window show- for other the digital broadcast to an analog signal NAB's count. But if you go through the ing the name of the show you're watch- uses. the TV can use. They'll need a power hassle of getting a converter box, you ing. The con- supply, and come with their own remote. may find that your picture quality has If you're getting a new TV, look for one improved a that has a built-in digital tuner, also great deal. known as an ATSC receiver. Sets that Since TV only have an analog tuner, also known as stations are an NTSC receiver, are being phased out Serving the already of stores. GLBT community broadcasting for 14 years Pampered Pet Sitting, LLC • Eyecare and Exams • Offices in two locations to serve you better • Reduced stress for • Optical Boutique your pet • Consistent diet & exercise • No travel Anxiety • Routine • International Checking of your home while you are away • Love & attention for Eyewear Selection your pet when you cannot be there! Call today for a FREE consultation! • Prescriptions Filled Candy A. Laflam, President 247 Northampton St. • Suite 12 413-584-6616 Easthampton, MA • 01027 • 413-529-0011 • Goshen: 413-268-3447 Cell: 413-695-0427 247 Pleasant St., Northampton www.pamperedpetsit.net E-mail: [email protected] www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • July 5-18, 2007 • 5 First comprehensive analysis of 2008 Dem. & Rep. presidential candidates’ positions on LGBT issues he National Gay and Lesbian Task candidates are supportive of the majority U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich is the only that they will continue to use our lives as Force, Inc., recently released the of LGBT issues, including transgender- 2008 presidential candidate who has pub- cultural wedge fodder whenever it’s Tfirst comprehensive analysis of inclusive nondiscrimination and hate licly supported all eight LGBT issues. deemed politically expedient.” the top 19 candidates for the 2008 presi- crimes laws. Only two Democratic candi- Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt “The public statements and voting dency on lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans- dates support marriage equality for same- Romney is the only 2008 presidential records of the Democratic candidates gender (LGBT) issues. Democrats dis- sex couples, however, yet all of them are candidate who has publicly opposed all show that they are clearly light years cussed in this report include Hillary in support of other partnership recogni- eight LGBT issues. ahead of the Republicans on almost every Clinton, John Edwards and Barack tion rights, such as civil unions. Across “The differences between the issue important to the LGBT community. Obama. Republicans include Rudy Nevertheless, the lack of courage on mar- Giuliani, John McCain and Mitt Romney. “The differences between the Democratic and Republican fields riage equality is disturbing on both polit- The report, The 2008 Presidential ical and moral grounds,” said Foreman. Candidates’ Positions on Lesbian, Gay, of candidates on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues are “Politically, being for civil unions but Bisexual and Transgender Issues, are against marriage doesn’t bring a single based on an analysis of the voting records shockingly stark and profoundly depressing,” said Foreman. voter over from the other side. Morally, and public statements of the candidates in it’s hard to understand how a Democratic eight key LGBT issue areas, including the board, Republican candidates were in Democratic and Republican fields of can- candidate can say to people they know sexual orientation and gender identity opposition to the majority of LGBT didates on lesbian, gay, bisexual and individually and to one of the most loyal nondiscrimination and hate crimes laws; issues, with most publicly opposing lift- transgender issues are shockingly stark and generous voting blocs the party has, HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment; ing the military’s ban on openly lesbian, and profoundly depressing,” said Matt ‘Sorry, I just can’t go there — you under- lifting the military's ban on openly les- gay and bisexual service members. Ten Foreman, Executive Director, National stand, right?’ Actually, we don’t.” bian, gay and bisexual service members; of 11 Republican candidates also oppose Gay and Lesbian Task Force. “Over time, For more information about this com- and partnership recognition for same-sex any partnership recognition for same-sex the majority of Americans have moved to prehensive analysis, visit www.thetask- couples. couples, whether it be marriage equality, support basic fairness for LGBT force.org/downloads/reports/reports/fina According to the report, all Democratic civil unions or domestic partnerships. Americans, including nondiscrimination l_candidates_positions.pdf. and hate crimes laws, repeal of ‘Don’t knowing more about the mystery and The mission of the National Gay and Jesse from page 3 Ask Don’t’ Tell,’ and protections for our two moms, a dad and a step mom can feel intrigue of that haunted place. I’ve taken Lesbian Task Force is to build the grassroots families. Sadly, the Republican field has at home. There’s a great music and art hundreds of photographs from the inside power of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans- scene, and, of course, because it is two and I hope to have a showing at Forbes gone in the opposite direction, still clear- gender (LGBT) community. Visit moms, a dad and a step mom can feel at Library in the coming months. ly pandering to the venom of the so- www.thetaskforce.org for more information. home. There’s a great music and art Q: We see your tattoos on your back, is called ‘religious right.’ This only means scene, and, of course, because it is Lesbo- there any significance to them? ville USA! A: One of my ex’s is a tattoo artist … Q: Where did you inspiration for songs Linda Tobin of Outer Limits Tattoo in like “In my mind” come from? California. While we were still together A: That song is about trying (and some- she “practiced” on my back and I ended times failing), to live up to the goals and up with a huge phoenix. Yes it hurt! WE ideals we set for ourselves, and trying to chose various protective symbols from be faithful and not be led astray by every many different cultures, the eye of Horus shiny thing that comes your way. from Egypt, the Celtic Ruins, the Chinese Q: Are there any other songs that have Dragon, the bear claw from the Pacific inspired you in different ways? Northwest, the Japanese Kanji symbols A: A song I recently finished for an AIDS for perseverance and clear listening. Care fundraiser was a song inspired by Luckily, Linda, my wife and I are good the death of my friend Alexander Martin. friends, and she did a beautiful dragon on He was a young poet and playwright liv- my wife as well. ing in Hawaii, and his death was a huge Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years loss to many people. from now? He wrote a play called The Buddha has A: Hopefully, my dog will have stopped AIDS which was very successful in chewing the furniture and my daughter Hawaii and Japan. will be in college. Maybe Gwen Agna People are feeling despair, disconnected (Jackson Street principal) will be presi- and without hope. Gay people are weary, dent, the endless war will be over and everyone is weary! Fortunately, music global warming will be on the mend— can be a healing force, I really believe and I will be playing regularly at Look that. The coldest heart can be warmed a Park either at The Pines as a performer, or little bit by a sweet song. Everyone can at the water park with my grandchildren. relate to sound and be soothed and moved To be able to check out Jesse’s other by music. That’s the best we can do! songs, as well as Marry Me, I’ll Marry Q: Besides performing, what else do you You, please visit her my space web page do? at: www.myspace.com/jedimusique A: I went back to school in 2004 and Jesse will be performing at the Iron became a certified teacher, right now I’m Horse Music Hall, on July 10 in down- teaching art and social studies. I love pho- town Northampton, 20 Center St, tography, art, and recently I have become Northampton, MA at 7 p.m. Jesse will be kind of obsessed with the history of the opening for Haale, an American singer of Northampton State Hospital. I just love Iranian descent. 6 • July 5-18, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com Movie Reviews Capsule reviews of ‘Die Hard’ and other films opening this week By: The Associated Press younger brother, who's smitten with Ann. our world but it never goes for the cheap, Ratatouille Evening PG-13 for some thematic elements, sexu- easy gag. Brian Dennehy, Peter O'Toole This may be the first Pixar movie that is A highly esteemed group of actresses al material, a brief accident scene and and Janeane Garofalo are among the so advanced, so sophisticated, it doesn't including Vanessa Redgrave, Meryl language. 117 min. Two stars out of four. strong vocal cast. G. 110 min. Three stars feel like it was made for kids. On a fun- Streep, Glenn Close, Toni Collette and —Christy Lemire, AP Movie Critic out of four. damental level, sure, children will proba- Natasha Richardson come together for a —Christy Lemire, AP Movie Critic bly enjoy watching the adventures of a pretentious, maudlin pile of goo based on Live Free or Die Hard plucky Parisian rat as he leaves the Susan Minot's book. Michael Luckily for Bruce Willis and the audi- Transformers colony to pursue his dream of becoming Cunningham, who wrote the novel “The ence, his die-hard cop still has a lot of The Hasbro toys inspired an animated a gourmet chef. There’s some slapsticky Hours,” helped Minot adapt the screen- yippee-ki-yay in him, nearly 20 years TV series and movie 20 years ago, and physical comedy, and writer-director play and infuses it with the same roman- after the first “Die Hard.” This fourth this version essentially is another car- Brad Bird, the mastermind behind “The ticized sense of self-importance. But let’s installment in the franchise, the first toon, though it's live-action seamlessly Incredibles,” keeps things going at a live- be honest: What we’re looking at is a since 1995’s “Die Hard With a blended with an overload of computer- ly, engaging clip. But there’s nothing highbrow chick flick, though one that’s Vengeance,” is the sort of generally wel- generated effects. In case you missed the silly or childlike about it. If you stop to beautifully shot. (Hungarian director come surprise that last year's “Rocky 1980s, Transformers are giant, sentient think about it, the main character is expe- Lajos Koltai is an Oscar-nominated, vet- Balboa” turned out to be, a re-acquain- robots made up of a gazillion moving riencing an existential crisis: Stay with eran cinematographer.) Redgrave stars as tance with an old friend you didn't think parts that shift around to turn the big guys the family and sift through garbage, as Ann, a woman lying on her deathbed, you would like anymore, but do. Let's be into all sorts of things—vehicles, jet his rodent ancestors have done for cen- recalling the one who got away one sum- clear. The movie is silly, outlandish and planes, helicopters and such. Director turies, or risk loneliness, abject failure mer 50 years earlier. Her children painfully implausible, and it grows more Michael Bay's tale has the good-guy and worse—death—by chasing after a (Collette and Richardson, Redgrave's so as director Len Wiseman revs up the Autobots and their evil foes the loftier goal? Heady stuff. “Ratatouille” is real-life daughter) sit beside her, listening climactic action sequences to preposter- Decepticons duking it out on Earth over a also visually wondrous in ways that are to her half-coherent rants and looking ous extremes. This time, Willis teams power source the villains want to use to both lush and intricately detailed—in perplexed. Meanwhile, in flashbacks, with a computer geek (Justin Long) to wipe out humanity and create a new race ways that seem to have been tailored Claire Danes plays young Ann visiting take on a mastermind (Timothy of nasty machines. The robotic human more toward grown-up tastes and sensi- Newport, R.I., for the society wedding of Olyphant) who has launched a cyber cast includes Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, bilities. The plot may be a bit thin: The her college friend, Lila (Streep’s daugh- attack that cripples traffic, utilities and Tyrese Gibson, Jon Voight, John Turturro furry Remy (voiced by comedian Patton ter, Mamie Gummer, and the resem- federal agencies over the July Fourth and Anthony Anderson. Silly as the story Oswalt) literally manipulates gangly blance is startling). Patrick Wilson, eter- weekend. PG-13 for intense sequences of is and bland as the characters are, the garbage boy Linguini (Lou Romano), nally playing the prom king, co-stars as violence and action, language and a brief visuals—particularly the cool robot Cyrano de Bergerac-style, into whipping the generically attractive guy who still sexual situation. 130 min. Two and a transformations—are the real stars. PG- up his culinary concoctions in the kitchen tugs at Ann's heart, and Hugh Dancy gets half stars out of four. 13 for intense sequences of sci-fi action of a once-revered restaurant. Blissfully, some volatile drunken moments as Lila's —David Germain, AP Movie Writer violence, brief sexual humor and lan- though, it's free of gratuitous pop-culture guage. 144 min. Two stars out of four. references; “Ratatouille” is very much of —David Germain, AP Movie Writer Survey: Fewer Americans see kids as key to a good marriage, say sharing chores more important By David Crary/AP same items, with 65 percent saying chil- NEW YORK (AP)—The percentage of dren were very important to a good mar- Americans who consider children “very riage. Just 41 percent said so in the new important'' to a successful marriage has Pew survey. dropped sharply since 1990, and more Chore-sharing was cited as very impor- now cite the sharing of household chores tant by 62 percent of respondents, up as pivotal, according to a sweeping new from 47 percent in 1990. survey. The survey also found that, by a margin The Pew Research Center survey on mar- of nearly 3-to-1, Americans say the main riage and parenting found that children purpose of marriage is the ``mutual hap- had fallen to eighth out of nine on a list of piness and fulfillment'' of adults rather factors that people associate with suc- than the “bearing and raising of chil- cessful marriages —well behind “sharing dren.” household chores,” “good housing,” The survey's findings buttress concerns “adequate expressed by numerous scholars and Gay Best Sellers* income,” a family-policy experts, among them “happy sex- Barbara Dafoe Whitehead of Rutgers 1. Outlaugh! ual relation- University's National Marriage Project. ship” and “The popular culture is increasingly ori- 2. A Love To Hide “faithful- ented to fulfilling the X-rated fantasies 3. Whole New Thing ness.” and desires of adults,'' she wrote in a 4. Sun Kissed In a 1990 recent report. “Child-rearing values— 5. Available Men World sacrifice, stability, dependability, maturi- 6. Queer As Folk: Season 1 Values ty—seem stale and musty by compari- 7. Open Cam Survey, son.” 8. Noahs Arc: The children Virginia Rutter, a sociology professor at Complete... ranked third Framingham (Mass.) State College and 9. Gay Sex in the 70s in impor- board member of the Council on 10. Another Gay Movie tance Contemporary Families, said the shifting among the * By wolfevideo.com See KIDS on p. 13 www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • July 5-18, 2007 • 7 OCAL LNews “Anytown” breaks through LGBTQ barriers and more By: Gricel M. Ocasio “This has been the best program I’ve Camp Anytown has been going on respect and understanding of people of TRT Publisher ever been to,” said Frankie, a fictitious for over 50 years. The cost of the camp all races, classes, genders, sexual ori- HOLYOKE—Segregation, sexism, name for a 17-year old Latino Holyoke is $500, which includes every expense entation, etc.,” said Benkert. “Second, racism, heterosexism, ageism, etc. If youth who attended Camp Anytown in through the week. Transportation is there are a lot of problems in this coun- you are a youth wondering why there 2006. “They show you how racism can available from the NCCJ’s Windsor, try and a lot of inequalities and if are so many ‘ism’s in society, perhaps affect your life and how I can break CT office. Students like Frankie, who you’re not part of the solution; you’re you may want to take a look at Camp stereotypes by showing others that I cannot pay such a fee are also welcome part of the problem.” Anytown. can do better than what they think.” to apply and will be considered based For inquiries call 860-683-1039, or Camp Anytown is a week-long resi- The camp places 60 students annual- on financial aid and scholarships that visit http://www.nccjctwma.org/. dential program designed to educate, ly and offers workshops that focus on a are available through the program. The NCCJ of Connecticut & liberate and empower youth partici- different type of oppression each day. “They showed me how to empower Western Massachusetts is a non-profit pants to become effective, responsible “We have students from wealthy myself and bring about change within human relations organization dedicat- leaders and community builders based communities, from poor communities, my family,” said Frankie. ed to fighting bias, bigotry, and racism. on the model of a pluralistic society. from every race, every class, every According to Benkert, there are vari- NCCJ promotes understanding and The program, held from Aug. 19-24, gender identity, etc.,” said Kelly ous reasons to send the youth to Camp respect of all diversity including race, 2007, is designed for high school age Benkert, NCCJ Youth Program Anytown. religion, and culture through educa- youth. Specialist. “First, it is very important to show tion, advocacy, and conflict resolution. Episcopal bishop removes Bristol priest BRISTOL, Conn. (AP)—Connecticut’s conservative Anglican Church of Episcopal Diocese has removed the Nigeria. leader of a Bristol parish that left the Trinity has hired an attorney to fight the PULL-OUT Episcopal church over the appointment diocese’s order to vacate the property, of an openly gay bishop. Helmandollar said recently. He also has SUPPLEMENT The Rev. Donald Lee Helmandollar of continued to lead worship services in the IN PRINT & Trinity Church has been deposed—the church, he said. ONLINE FOR equivalent of being defrocked—and the “We firmly believe that our church was DOUBLE THE diocese will take over the church's prop- built by and given to the Anglican com- EXPOSURE erty on July 8, Connecticut Bishop munion there, known as the Trinity Andrew Smith said Friday. Church Society,” he told The Hartford Trinity's congregation voted itself out of Courant, adding that the church's con- the Episcopal Church earlier this year, struction in 1746 preceded the formation becoming one of several nationwide who of the Episcopal Diocese. left their dioceses and joined the more See Bishop on p. 11 Kate Clinton reveals a ‘secret’ for looking www.therainbowtimesmass.com good to Northampton audience 413-204-8959 By J.M. Sorrell,/TRT Reporter ence roared when Clinton spoke about WedThediing Suppllementt Jully 2007 NORTHAMPTON—Recently, comedian how 6 and ½ years of Bush causes her July 19th is the time to add your business to Wedding Supplement in Kate Clinton performed at the “Tourette’s Syndrome” every time she Full Color. The LGBT community’s buying power will exceed $835 Northampton High School Auditorium to hears him speak. Her “spiritual pro- Billion by year 2011. Do you still think you should not market to us? a crowd of nearly 500 fans. The fund gram” is suspect when she has violent RainbowThink again.Times raising event to celebrate Perugia Press’ fantasies about Dick Cheney. Your LGBTQ413-204-8959 News Source •in therainbowtimesmass.com Western MA, Southern VT, and Northern CT 10-year anniversary. According to Kate Clinton, we could end Perugia Press is a non-profit poetry pub- the war in Iraq if we made all of its citi- lisher. Just one book is chosen and pro- zens wear pastel clothing. She believes duced each year. Publisher Susan Kan that is has demonstrated effectiveness to introduced Clinton by noting similarities pacify people in the United States. between comedy and poetry. As Clinton approaches 60 this year, she Kate Clinton opened by explaining her claims that her secret to looking good is, background as a high school English “You are what you eat.” This was teacher: “Illness and fatigue caused me to expressed with a wink and raised eye- quit after eight years. I was sick and tired brow. She will continue working in of it!” Clinton made mention of “excru- retirement homes where her repetition ciating” feminist poetry, and she recited a will not be noticed. Kate Clinton gave particularly painful poem, “The tide goes special mention that Northampton is a out; the tide comes in; the sea; the beach. “naturally occurring” lesbian retirement I hate my mother.” community. Her tour, Climate Change, refers to what You can learn more about Clinton’s tour- Clinton hopes is an upswing in the socio- ing schedule by visiting her website at political world of this country. The audi- www.kateclinton.com. 8 • July 5-18, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com Entertainment Hillary, Oprah and Dr.Phil, oh my! By: Jack/ie Kennedy/TRT Columnist to. I mean, if I were to go on, I would embarrassment of witnessing gay people do I call that? A hypocrite! So you can am with Hillary Clinton when she never be able to finish this column and “throwing their sexuality in his and his kiss, hug, make out, and do all of these told nearly 1,000 women at a the atrocities that some people’s presi- girlfriend’s face.” By throwing “their” things because you’re a het, but God for- Ifundraiser that the White House dent’s administration has done to sexuality he meant: “kissing, holding bid anyone else does it because then it’s needs a “clean sweep.” I’d say more like America. I say, “I didn’t vote for Bush, hands, embracing one another, etc.” I offensive to you?! I get tired of the: “I a Clorox detoxification, alcohol-based don’t blame me!” asked him, isn’t that what you do with have no problem with so and so being disinfectant, with 100% bacteria, germ So, now those who proclaimed that your girlfriend when we all go out? He gay, as long as he doesn’t kiss or touch and virus removal power. Why? Look at homosexuality was curable are taking said he merely held her hand. I said, his ‘friend’ in front of me.” To heck with what this administration has done to the their words back: Read EXODUS in the what about all of the other messages that that! Gays in relationships are not LGBT community, to poor immigrants dictionary for flip-floppers, along with LGBT people have to endure from het- friends people!! They do the same things who are just working hard to get their “Bush.” It seems like now they realize erosexuals, which also meant “throwing you do behind close doors with those part of the pie in a land of immigrants, at that they’ve done more damage than someone’s sexuality in their faces?” He they love. And that’s how our conversa- women for not giving them equal rights anything else. It’s like asking heterosex- said there wasn’t such a thing. I quickly tion ended. My friend didn’t have a to earn the same as men and be treated ual people to change their inner soul, thought of a show I watched a while ago come back and I’d made my point clear, equally innate likes, and realities. Who will ask and hurriedly said, what about for crystal clear. Lesbian Best Sellers* under the anyone to change those innate feelings instance that Dr. Phil show that dealt Now dealing with Oprah is another dif- law, at sen- that are present with most LBGT people with homosexuality and how families ferent story. The woman’s got guts and 1. Desert Hearts 2-Disc... ior citizens throughout their lives? Some say it’s a and friends felt about it? He said “Dr. she knows how to treat the LGBT com- 2. Big Dreams in Little for cheating “lifestyle choice,” well, who’d choose to Phil. He’s not anti-gay.” I said, he may munity. She’s a proud African American Hope them out of live a life of oppression, insult, ostra- not be anti-gay, but he isn’t pro-gay that knows what respect truly means and 3. Loving Annabelle a decent cized from what mainstream America either. who’s not at all bothered or concerned 4. Outlaugh! health insur- imposes on us? Let’s face it my readers, In this particular show that I was with her sexuality. She’s so certain of it 5. The Investigator ance system, it’s easier to be heterosexual. So when watching, I said, Dr. Phil told a guest that that she doesn’t care if others think that and at our 6. Just the Two Of Us someone says, gays can be cured, trans her loving gestures in front of her moth- she’s a lezzie. Go Oprah, go Oprah! troops, for can be cured, bi’s can be cured, I say, so er (the guest’s mother) towards her There’s HARPO to go for a loooong 7. She Likes Girls having sent can you, if you’re unintelligent enough same-sex partner were too much and time. Maybe she should’ve given some 8. The L Word: Season 1 them awry to believe such a naïve assumption! asked her why did she have to “flaunt advice to her former therapist Dr. Phil on 9. That Tender Touch to a place The other day a straight friend told me her sexuality in her face?” I thought LGBT issues. He could use some help in 10. The L Word: Season 3 where we that he’d gone to a Pride March and had about what he said for like 15 minutes, that department. had no busi- left disgusted. He said that he was in awe until I saw Dr. Phil’s show come to an And guess what? If I were a heterosex- * By wolfevideo.com ness going and mad that he’d had to endure the end. It was then that I thought about ual man, which I may be but won’t hypocrisy, yes again that word! I then reveal that here because I like to allow witnessed Dr. Phil walking down this you to continue to guess my sexuality, I isle to meet with his wife, who sits with wouldn’t be concerned about who cares the viewers and watches his show as you if I am gay or not, or if I have gay all probably know. With a smile on his friends, or whatever the case might be. face, he simply, in an almost innocent Lesson number 1: True heterosexual and imperceptible move held her hand people who don’t have any issues with and walked out as the camera focused on their sexuality have no problem with the couple walking together, smiling and homosexuality. Only those with an issue, talking about what seemed to be the a question, an inherent fear or an out of show. And then it came to me! Dr. Phil proportion anger are usually those who was “flaunting his sexuality too!” The want to play for the “other team,” if they difference was that as a heterosexual, don’t already do so behind your back. affluent male, whose habits are accepted So, watch out for those homophobes and applauded by the mainstream socie- ’cause they may already be playing for ty and media, he was not even mindful to the other team without you knowing it. the privileges that he’s always had. Like the wolf in the sheep skin. Got it? However, he could point fingers in other Gotcha! people’s directions, couldn’t he? What

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nvironment PridE Do motorcycles generate pollution? Dear EarthTalk: How much pollution do nationally to set vehicle emissions stan- motorcycles generate? Are there efforts to dards, issued a new set of motorcycle Photo courtesy of Getty Images. make them more eco-friendly? emissions testing guidelines that will — Matt Lackore, Rochester, MN make it easier for manufacturers to design more green-friendly motorcycles. otorcycles typically get about In the wake of these developments, the double the gas mileage of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Meven the most fuel-efficient (EPA) established new federal rules that cars—but that doesn’t mean they are require motorcycle makers to reduce green. Despite getting 60-70 miles per their products’ emissions by 50 percent. gallon, motorcycles are not subject to the In place since the beginning of the 2006 same rigorous emissions standards as model year, these new rules are expected cars and light duty trucks, even though to cut combined hydrocarbon and nitro- they spew up to 15 times more pollution gen oxide emissions from motorcycles per mile, mostly in the form of smog- by about 54,000 tons a year, while also causing hydrocarbons and nitrogen saving approximately 12 million gallons oxides. of fuel annually by preventing it from Increasingly stringent regulations in escaping from fuel hoses and fuel tanks. Europe and the U.S. have forced Many manufacturers are rising to the automakers to make their engines clean- challenge. Honda, already a world leader er, but motorcycle manufacturers have in the development of greener cars, is not been held to such high standards and putting the finishing touches on its new have therefore been slow to implement “idling stop system” that cuts fuel con- similar advances. According to the sumption and exhaust emissions by turn- European Commission, motorcycles— ing off the engine instead of idling at stop despite only accounting for about three lights and in traffic jams. And Intelligent percent of total traffic volume in Energy, a British company, is developing Europe—are expected to generate as an Emissions Neutral Vehicle (ENV), a much as 14 percent of that continent’s motorcycle powered by a detachable total hydrocarbon emissions by 2010. hydrogen-powered fuel cell. The vehicle But there is light at the end of the tun- can reach speeds topping 50 miles per nel, thanks in large part to the state of hour while making virtually no noise, California, which in 2004 passed legisla- and can run for up to four hours without tion to green up motorcycles sold and rid- refueling. Bigger, faster and longer run- den in that state. California’s new stan- ning versions of the ENV are currently in dards dictate that hydrocarbon and nitro- the works, and should become widely gen oxide emissions from motorcycles available in Europe, the U.S. and else- top out at only 0.8 grams per kilometer where within a few years. (g/km), down from 1975-set standards of Got an environmental question? Send it between 5.0 and 14.0 g/km (depending to: EarthTalk, c/o E/The Environmental on engine size). Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT And in 2005, the United Nations’ 06881; online: emagazine.com/earth- Motorcycles are tough on the environment, spewing up to 15 times more pollution per mile than cars World Forum for Harmonization of talk/thisweek/, or via e-mail at: earth- and light trucks, mostly in the form of smog-causing hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides. Vehicle Regulations, which works inter- [email protected]. Grant Helps GCC Train for a “Green” Workforce GREENFIELD—Greenfield the SPC project grant will support the technology that can help cut back on our ty and GCC is pleased to be an active part- Community College has been awarded a development of a comprehensive sustain- carbon emissions. There is a growing ner in this effort. It is clear that the WFCT $372,000 grant for a Sustainable Practices able energy program, called Renewable demand for this technology, but the supply agrees and we welcome them as an active in Construction (SPC) project that will Energy Workforce Education of people who know how it works has not and engaged partner.” help local business leaders send employ- (RENEWED) at GCC. caught up to that demand. They are being GCC plans to train 240 people through ees to the college for training in renewable “It will eventually include a certificate offered either for credit, for students seek- this program: 150 workers, many of energy technology. program and then, in the next three years ing a degree, or as noncredit courses for whom will take more than one course; 30 The college applied for the grant from or so, a two-year associate degree program people already in the workforce who want members of “special populations” includ- the Workforce Competitiveness Trust focusing on this technology,” said Nancy to expand their skills. ing young people, older workers and those Fund (WFCT) after it decided to launch a Bair, of GCC’s workforce development This project continues GCC’s commit- needing English language training; and 60 series of courses teaching students and office, who is the program manager on ment to provide access to educational college students who are transitioning into people in the community practical ways to this project.“GCC is a key academic, eco- excellence for everyone in the community energy programs. become more environmentally friendly. nomic and cultural contributor in our who seeks it. For a complete listing of these and other The courses offered this summer and fall region, setting high national and state “The Renewable Energy Workforce GCC courses, please pick up a free copy include “introduction to photovoltaic tech- standards for graduating competent Education program is a great fit for our of the summer course guide at the GCC nology” (panels that convert solar energy employees into our workforce and trans- college and a great fit for our community. main campus or downtown campus or go into electricity), “photovoltaic installa- ferring well prepared students into other This collaborative is focusing on the right online to www.gcc.mass.edu. For more tion”, “solar domestic hot water”, “passive colleges and universities.” issue and creating the right process and information about this program please solar technology” and “energy conserva- The courses are meant to provide com- these are the right partner,” said GCC contact Jones at [email protected] or tion and efficiency,” and more classes are munity members and students with the President Robert Pura “This is just smart Nancy Bair at 413.775.1607. being planned for spring. Resources from skills to install and maintain the new green economic development for our communi- www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • July 5-18, 2007 • 11 More OCAL LNews Women’s Fund announces Golf Classic Bishop from p.7 “Our own constitution says we will EASTHAMPTON—Rosie Jones, 13- the winning raffle tickets; prizes include prizes at 6:00 pm. Registration deadline remain,” he said. time LPGA winner, now Golf Channel an Olivia Cruise for Two, a Hickory is July, 16th. The Episcopal Church has splintered commentator and host of RosieJones Ridge Country Club one-year individual Interview contact information and nationwide since the 2003 consecration Golf Getaways presented by Olivia, will membership, a Provincetown Getaway, photo of Rosie Jones available upon of openly gay bishop Gene Robinson of be on the tee at the Women’s Fund of and a set of golf clubs from Fran request. New Hampshire. Trinity was among six Western Massachusetts Golf Classic, to Johnson’s. Local businesses, don’t miss out on this Connecticut parishes that opposed be held at the Hickory Ridge Country The $125 registration for the 18 Hole great opportunity to promote your prod- Smith's support of Robinson's election. Club on Monday, July 30, 2007. Scramble includes golf and cart, range ucts and services at this well-attended Smith announced the revocation of Our 10th Anniversary presenting spon- balls, lunch and tournament banquet, event featuring LPGA star Rosie Jones. Helmandollar's clerical status during a sor is Northwestern Mutual Financial team and skill prizes. You may make Tournament sponsorships range from gathering Friday with Presiding Bishop Services and the Tournament presenting your own team or enter yourself and we $250 to $2,000. Katharine Jefferts Schori. She was vis- sponsor is Fran Johnson’s Golf & Tennis. will place you on a team. Registration To play, sponsor or volunteer, visit iting for Saturday's ordination of Rosie will tee off for each team on a Par and buffet lunch begins at 11:00 am with www.womensfund.net to download reg- Connecticut's first female Episcopal 3 hole followed by a team photo op with a shotgun start at 1:00 pm. Cocktails are istration and event information or call bishop, the Rev. Laura J. Ahrens. her. At the end of the day Rosie will draw followed by dinner and awarding of 413-529-0087 x10 to register by phone. Smith and Helmandollar disagree about whether Helmandollar voluntarily CDH receives grant for women with breast cancer renounced his orders with the Episcopal Access to free complementary therapy reduction cancers, approximately 125 or 25 percent Church by joining another church, or services to help women with breast can- techniques. It of cases, are breast cancer diagnoses. whether the diocese's standing commit- cer cope, reduce stress and heal is our hope • According to the Mass. Department of tee stripped him of that role. NORTHAMPTON, MA—Cooley that exposure Public Health CHIP Breast Cancer At least 45 parishes nationwide have Dickinson Hospital’s Cancer Care to comple- Report of 2006, the breast cancer inci- left the Episcopal Church over disputes Program and its Center for mentary ther- dence for both Hampshire and Franklin about ordaining openly gay pastors and Complementary Therapies have been apies will Counties is approximately 900 new diag- the blessing of same-sex unions, awarded a grant from the Susan G. provide par- noses of breast cancer over the past four according to the denomination. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation for ticipants with years. The Episcopal Church comprises 2.4 $34,457 to provide complementary ther- skills for • The most recent statistics from the million members in 62 countries and is apy services to area women living with healing, self- Massachusetts Cancer Registryindicate part of the 38-member provinces of the breast cancer. Services will be provided care and wellness, as defined by each 1051 women are living with breast can- worldwide Anglican Communion. in collaboration with Cancer Connection, individual.” cer in Hampshire and Franklin Counties. Women’s Health Network/Tapestry Categorized as a Quality of Life and Health, Hospice of the Fisher Home and Support Services grant, it will fund 600 the VNA & Hospice of Cooley appointments that will be available to Dickinson. 200 women on a first come, first-served “The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer basis. Each woman will receive three, Foundation grant will enable the hospi- one-hour appointments in any of the tal’s Cancer Care Program and the Center modalities named above. To make an off with this ad for Complementary Therapies to provide appointment, women should call the $2 free complementary therapy services to Center for Complementary Therapies at women in Hampshire and Franklin coun- 413- 582-2424.of life means to her, per- ties living with a breast cancer diagno- form an assessment of their stress level, sis,” said Mary Ellen Walsh, MA, LCSW, implement techniques to reduce stress Cancer Care Program director. and enhance self-awareness, and select Women can choose from complementa- the type of modality they want to experi- ry therapies services such as acupunc- ence.” ture, aromatherapy, healing music, heal- Participants will be asked to provide ing touch, Reiki, Preparing for Surgery©, feedback by completing various evalua- self-hypnosis/guided imagery and thera- tion tools before and after each session peutic massage. and within six months. They will also be All practitioners providing these serv- asked to provide written and oral testimo- ices are employees of Cooley Dickinson nials about the experience to evaluate Hospital. They hold certifications, appro- each therapeutic intervention. priate licensing and registrations, and For more information or to speak with pursue ongoing training in their respec- a woman who has used services funded tive fields of expertise. by the grant, call the CDH Public “More women survive breast cancer Relations Office at (413) 582-2421. than any other type of cancer,” continued Fact Sheet;Breast Cancer at CDH Walsh. “However, survival is only part of • Breast Cancer is the leading cancer long-term adjustment. The quality of that diagnosed at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, survival is equally important. For women an acute care hospital serving residents of on this journey, we are honored to be able the Pioneer Valley. to provide access to complementary ther- • Each year, CDH diagnoses over 415 apies that offer self-awareness and stress new cancers. The largest number of those 12 • July 5-18, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com Connecticut Pride 2007: Awesome!

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Welcoming Lesbians & Bisexual Women

Lanie Bud, Company Founders Welcoming Lesbians & Bisexual Women! www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • July 5-18, 2007 • 13 Politics FIERCE: Lesbians in attack unjustly sentenced By: Bran Fenner/FIERCE* to socialize? When has it become nor- Updates based on court and trial support mal to expect that everyone has a com- NYC—On the night of August 18th, fortable home environment and should 2006 a group of young black lesbians not be out doors at night or any other from Jersey intended to hang out in the time of the day? village as was an occasional routine until For many years FIERCE has been they encountered Wayne Buckle, 29. fighting that notion of only those with Buckle approached them making vulgar money and property have the right to gestures and remarks that were severely public space. The Christopher St. Piers homophobic and sexist. has been a home for many in our commu- As the verbal interaction progressed, nity for decades, particularly low income Buckle eventually responded by spitting or homeless youth of color. This incident in one of their faces and flicking a lit cig- is not an isolated incident. Many of us arette at their faces as well. There were have been in situations where some points captured on the video where he randomn person felt entitled to our bod- pulls out the hair of one of the young ies, whether it be the guy on the corner women leaving large patches, hair later trying to “get a date” or the state whose found scattered on the ground. There are solution to homelessness is incarcera- also parts of the footage as well as testi- tion/cheap labor. monial that shows Wayne Buckle on top FIERCE has been acting as a support to of one of the women choking the life out the women and their families. Visit the of her. It was then that another young FIERCE website now to find out how women (Patresse Johnson 4’11” 105 lbs. us who were at court everyday seeing the has been typically racist, consistently you can help support these women and pulls a kitchen knife out of her purse to trial happen were surprised (due to referring to the young black women as a their families. Visit www.fiercenyc.org. injure his arm and stop him from poten- naivety) that they [the women] could be pack of wolves further dehumanizing * FIERCE! is a non-profit community organ- tially killing her friend). At that moment, found guilty. Even the night they [the them. The energy that the defense attor- ization for Transgender, Lesbian, Gay, two unidentified men came to the women] were arrested, they thought they ney’s had to put in to have the jury con- Bisexual, Two Spirit, Queer, and Questioning women’s aid without being asked to and would be going home as an officer told sider them to be average women, plan- (TLGBTSQQ) youth of color in NYC, who is beat Wayne Buckle. them; all while never looking for the men ning to go to McDonalds and just hang dedicated to exploring and building power in When Buckle was asked at the hospital that inflicted most of Buckle’s bruises out was unbelievable. At one point the our communities through a mix of leadership about who had attacked him, he respond- and wounds. prosecuting attorney demanded that development, artistic and cultural activism, ed at least twice that some men had We remember Sakia Gunn a 15 year old someone who feels unsafe should always political education, and campaign develop- attacked him. There was no evidence that black lesbian who was stabbed to death have a cell phone on them to call the ment while taking care of ourselves and each Patresse’s kitchen knife was the weapon in a similar situation, they [the women] police. other. They challenge the institutions that per- that penetrated his abdomen, nor was were also friends of hers. At this time the women could not petuate transphobia, homophobia, racism, eth- there any blood or testing done on the We understand that when we are being afford a cell phone. Some people ask why nic conflict, gender bias, economic injustice, kitchen knife. There is even footage of attacked calling the police all too often they were just hanging out in the village ageism, and the spread of HIV, STIs, STDs, and them [the women] cautiously walking results in being re-victimized by police if they were from Jersey. When exactly other mental and physical health crises that away from him while he continues to officers. has it become normal to expect that only make daily survival a terrifying challenge for walk after them. To say the least, many of We understand that the media coverage people with money have the right many TLGBTSQQ youth. KIDS from page 6 40s had lived with a partner outside of percent of white adults have been mar- that 57 percent of public opposes allow- views may be linked in part to America's marriage. ried, compared with about 70 percent of ing gays and lesbians to marry. However, relative lack of family-friendly work- According to the survey, 71 percent of Hispanics and 54 percent of blacks. Yet opinion was almost evenly divided on place policies such as paid leave and sub- Americans say the growth in births to blacks were more likely than whites and support for civil unions that would give sidized child care. unwed mothers is a “big problem.” About Hispanics to say that premarital sex is same-sex couples many of the same “If we value families ... we need to the same proportion— 69 percent —said always or almost always morally wrong. rights as married couples. change the a child needs Among those who have ever been mar- Asked about the trend of more same- circum- both a mother ried, blacks (38 percent) and whites (34 sex couples raising children, 50 percent stances ... the survey found that 57% of the public oppos- and a father to percent) were more likely than Hispanics said this is bad for society, 11 percent they live es allowing gays and lesbians to marry. grow up happi- (23 percent) to have been divorced. said it is good, and 34 percent said it in,” she ly. Delving into one of the nation's most made little difference. said, citing However, opinion was almost evenly divided on Breaking divisive social issues, the survey found the chal- down the lenges support for civil unions that would give same-sex responses, the faced by couples many of the same rights as married couples. survey found young, two- some pre- FOR SALE earner cou- dictable pat- ples as they ponder having children. terns—Republicans and older people AccessAbility Alternatives, a Nonprofit for The Pew survey was conducted by tele- were more likely to give conservative phone from mid-February through mid- answers that Democrats and younger March among a random, nationwide adults. But the patterns in regard to race Womyn with disabilities, has 3 building lots for sample of 2,020 adults. Its margin of and ethnicity were more complex. error is 3 percentage points. For example, census statistics show sale ($43 - 49,500) in Wendell. These lots are Among the scores of questions in the that blacks and Hispanic are more likely survey, many touched on America's high than whites to bear children out of wed- surrounded by Lesbian conservation land to rate of out-of-wedlock births and of lock. Yet according to the survey, these cohabitation outside of marriage. The minority groups are more inclined than fund raise for environmental protection. survey noted that 37 percent of U.S. whites to place a high value on the births in 2005 were to unmarried women, importance of children to a successful For more info: 413-625-6978, ext 1 up from 5 percent in 1960, and found that marriage. nearly half of all adults in their 30s and The survey found that more than 80 14 • July 5-18, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com ustice Automotive Q & A ueerJ Q By: Steve Lewis TRT Columnist Horse injuries while boarded, is there any recourse? e’ve got a Dear Queer Justice: ment, you still have know that there is a level of danger and few I board my horse at a local stable. rights as to he care negligence that is to be expected when it W more questions to During his stay, another horse kicked and protection of comes to horses. The law approaches the address, but essen- him and injured him severely. Do I your horse. In the equestrian world with a term called tially when these have any recourse and what are my Commonwealth of “assumption of the risk.” There is an Stephen M. Lewis are gone the cup- President, Steve Lewis rights? Massachusetts the inherent risk to riding and caring for board is bare. No Subaru —Samantha, Easthampton law is very vague as horses, therefore in order to win in an matter how insignificant you think your to the horse world. action in negligence you would have to question is, it may help you and someone But you do have prove that the action went beyond regular else, so get them to the Rainbow Times, Dear Samantha, legal avenues Atty. Jennifer Dexter negligence and rises to the action of gross he first thing I would suggest is or directly to me at SteveLewis@subaru- through civil law. negligence. mail.com. to read your boarding agree- The owner has a responsibility to provide As to the owner of the other horse that Tment. Any reputable stable an appropriate, safe, and reasonable sta- is a slippery slope. Your ability to win in Question 1: Is Regular gas as good as would have you sign a contract defining ble for horses. The owner should be an action against the owner of the other Premium and how do I know if I shoud your role as well as the role of the own- insured and able to cover any claims you horse depends on how much control they be using 87, 88, or 89 octane fuel? ers. Your boarding agreement will out- can make in negligence or gross negli- had over their horse and to what extent The answer to this question is found in line your responsibilities, your rights and gence. the damage goes beyond the “normal” your owner's manual. The fuel that is your avenues of recourse. As a person who is involved interstate expectation of injury that is inherent to suggested to be used has been carefully Assuming you signed a boarding agree- the horse world, I will assume that you the sport. calculated by the manufacturer for your car. It serves absolutly NO purpose for you to use a higher octane fuel than sug- gested. At this day and age of fuel TRTTRT PRIDEPRIDE CalendarCalendar ranging from $3.10/gallon to upwards SENIOR CITIZEN’S BOWLING LEAGUE; ance. She’s hot and steamy, and ready to at the "Bears Gone Wild" Carnivale and enjoy of $4.00/gallon, save all that you can! Mondays at 12:30 p.m. - Canal Lanes, Route make you sing along her repertoire of songs. a day full of short, feature and documentary 5, Southampton. films. FMI: www.vtbearfilm.com Bryan’s B-Day at The Chez Est; July 13; 458 Question 2: Would you say that one Wethersfield Ave., Hartford, CT; Blacklight, brand of tires is better than another? SOCIAL GROUP FOR LESBIANS KING ST. BOIZ; July 20th, Diva’s Night Club Glowstick Party; Featuring Sarah Atereth, We always meet on the first and third Friday's @ 7 p.m.; Back by Popular Demand. The Boiz The answer to that question is generally NYC Diva Anthony Lamont, NY City DJ Lady of the month. For information call 413-687- are HOT, don’t miss their show! With the cut no. In general, an inexpensive tire ($50.- Tita, & Angelica Nations with Fever Passions. 2065 out of the ad on page 9, you get $2.00 off $75.) will not last as long as a tire that in admission. Check it out! Go support NoHo’s EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION (EC) is Club Lucy @ The Chez Est in Hartford, CT, in the $75.00 + range. Boiz! NOW available without a prescription at all on July 14 and every second Saturday; 458 The brand of that tire does not matter. Tapestry Health Services sites. Call (413) Wethersfield Ave., Hartford, CT; the longest HARRASSMENT? DISCRIMINATION? Do Just make sure you get the correct sized 586-2539. running ladies’ party in New England; Hip- you know of any businesses in Northampton Hop, Techno, Mainstream, Latin Beats; Huge tires for your vehicle and that you keep CAFE & CONVERSATION; Every Tuesday at or surrounding areas that are giving you a outdoor patio; www.clublucy.com. them properly inflated, and maintain the 9:30 a.m.; at the Northampton Council on hard time because you’re gay and/or don’t Aging, NCOA; 240 Main St., Suite 1 cater to you? If you have a story, we want to proper alignment. Given all of this is REACH! FOR A FREE DANCE PERFOR- Northampton Phone: 587-1228 tell it. Contact The Rainbow Times, 413-204- done, rarely is there any tire that won't MANCE; Jul 18, 2007 7:00 p.m.; Bishop Allen 8959 MATURE LESBIAN SUPPORT GROUP; Drive parking lot behind Harvest Cooperative last 60,000 miles, and 80-90,000 miles is Group for women 55+ meets monthly at the Supermarket, 581 Mass. Ave., Central Square not uncommon. Fifteen aspiring teen dancers from Boston, Northampton Council on Aging at 240 Main Question 3: Are ABS brakes better for St., at 6 p.m., the second Monday of each Cambridge and area neighborhoods dance Free TRT weekly e-newslet- month. side by side with professionals at this public ter, The Pony Express safety or is there not much of a performance by Boston University’s four-week DISCUSSION GROUP FOR LESBIANS 40+ diffrence? ABS stands for "Anti-lock Summer Outreach/Teen Apprenticeship Sign up online! Braking System." What it does is cut off meets every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dance Program, REACH! This free 45-minute at the Stonewall Center at UMass. Topics cho- high-energy performance will showcase the therainbowtimesmass.com the power to the brakes in the event of a sen by group consensus the previous week. teens’ original choreography in an eclectic panic stop. If you push the brake pedal to This is a warm and welcoming group of intelli- program of modern, improvisation, jazz, hip- the floor at speed you will "lock" up the gent women. Information email to: hop, contemporary, and ethnic dance set to brakes, causing the car to lose it's braking [email protected] Latin, hip-hop, jazz, classical, contemporary GOT TESTED? and world music. Rain date: July 25, 7 p.m. power and go into a skip. OLDER LESBIAN DISCUSSION GROUPS; Free and anonymous HIV testing: Call the Aids Bring lawn chairs. ABS moderates the braking so as to Amherst/NoHo Area. New members accepted Project of Southern VT at 254-4444. Meeting on space-available basis. If enough interest, arrangements also available. allow you to maintain control of the car WEDDING SUPPLEMENT; The Rainbow new groups may form. FMI: 413-247-3257 or by having maximum braking without Times; July 19th; not an event, but a Free hepatitis A&B vaccinations: Call 413-253-3049. Supplement not to miss! Send in your wedding Kathleen at 251-2108 at the Department of going into a skid. ABS is definitely a MEN'S SUPPORT GROUP; Any male 18 or pictures (we’ll publish them for free), and Health to make an appointment good thing! advertise your events, services and all stuff so older; an opportunity for men to share their Remember that men who have sex with men are at increased Thanks for the questions. Please keep that couples planning their wedding can go experiences, thoughts, and feelings about risk for hepatitis A&B. The vaccination protects you for life! them coming! Happy Motoring! life's journey. Support group not a therapy and support your business! 413-204-8959 FMI. group. Free. Every Tuesday, 6:30-8:30 p.m., NON-PROFIT OR ORGANIZATION W/FREE Brattleboro, VT. FMI: 802-258-3914. EVENTS 4 ALL? Send us your event and we VT BEAR FILM FEST: Saturday, August 25, Happy 4th will publish them for free! If you are a for-prof- JESSE MOLINA Opens for Haale, at the Iron 2007. Yo ho ho! There be pirates amongst us! it business, we also have affordable options Horse, 20 Center St., in Northampton, at 7 Search for Gray Beard's treasure, WOOF it up of July! p.m. Check out this true lesbian’s perform- for you! cALL 413-204-8959! Submit your non-profit calendar event* to [email protected] From the staff of *Certain restrictions apply. Small for-profit events/groups, 35 words or less, are considered for a small fee. Large/for-profit events are not considered. All sub- The Rainbow Times www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • July 5-18, 2007 • 15 ther ONews Gender Re-assignment Surgery for inmates with tax dollars? By: Jane Hamel/TRT Columnist panies are in con- identity which is determined by the struc- asking. . . Should convicted criminals here is a much publicized court trol of medical ture of the brain. Transsexualism (HBS) within the correctional system receive trial going on right now concern- care in this coun- is about being a particular sex, not doing better health care than those of us on the Ting the case of Michelle – for- try and that any it. It is also about recognizing gender outside? My answer to that is NO! But, mally Robert - Kosilek, convicted of surgery not paid norms, not challenging them." (Karen being a prisoner should not mean getting killing her wife, who is suing the for means more Gurney & Eithne Mills, Murdoch lesser or better health care than the rest of Massachusetts Correction Department money for CEO University Electronic Journal of Law, Vol us. She has been tried and convicted of for a taxpayer funded gender re-assign- bonuses. 12, No #1 & #2, 2005.) murder and is serving out a sentence that ment surgery. According to an AP I offer some- Arguments are being presented by psy- doesn’t include denial of necessary review, the MCD has already spent 52 thing a bit more chiatric and medical professionals as to health care. We should all receive the thousand dollars on expert testimony in JANE HAMEL current from the whether or not GRS is a necessary treat- same great medical care that our elected their vigorous fight against Ms. Kosilek’s Harry Benjamin’s Syndrome informa- ment for Transsexualism or Harry officials get at the taxpayer’s expense request. “The duration and expense of tional resource; Benjamin’s Syndrome. Scream with me and only when Gender Re-assignment the case have outraged some lawmakers Harry Benjamin's Syndrome is an inter- here. . . Yes! It Is! This debate is over! Surgery is covered for HBS just as by- who insist that taxpayers should not have sex condition developed in the early But then again, I consider the debate over pass surgery is for a heart problem. Then, to pay for inmates to have surgery that stages of pregnancy affecting the process Darwinism vs. creationism to be over as both my self and Ms. Kosilek would be most private insurers reject as elective,” of sexual differentiation between male well. first in line. according to a report by AP writer, and female. This happens when the brain For many of us, the stress of living in a Since we are in no way close to having Denise Lavoie. (She also goes on in her develops as a certain sex but the rest of gender role opposite from your brain-sex such a fine and equitable insurance pro- article to continually refer to Ms. Kosilek the body takes on the physical character- can cause serious emotional side-effects gram, then my answer has to be – NO, I as “he” and “his”, an inexcusable and istics of the opposite sex. The difference such as clinical depression leading to sui- do not support taxpayer funding for an transphobic reference to a pre-op trans- between this and most other intersex con- cidal behavior. This in fact is what’s hap- inmate’s GRS, because I would then have sexual woman.) ditions is that there is no apparent evi- pening with Ms. Kosilek - two suicide to ask myself what I would have to do to Insurance companies rejecting GRS as dence until much later after the baby is attempts to date. get on the surgery list. an elective surgery, is just one of the born or even as late as adolescence. Can we agree then that the proper and many issues packed into this multi- Harry Benjamin's Syndrome was accepted treatment for HBS faceted case, and the one that hits home known in the past with many different is the least harmful correc- for me. This is a huge fight that we as names, being Transsexualism (ICD-10), tive surgery, meaning geni- transsexuals have, which includes getting the most common used in relation with it. tal reconstruction rather the diagnosis of “Transsexuality” “People with the condition of transsex- than a brain transplant? changed from being the same as “Gender ualism (HBS) are therefore born with You can think about it for Identity Disorder” and removed from the both male and female characteristics and, awhile. We now have the DSM (the index of mental disorders) just like many others with atypical sexual real argument for this case as “Homosexuality” was removed some development, seek rehabilitation of their which is “Should Ms. years ago. I don’t have to see “Sicko” to phenotype and endocrinology to accord Kosilek be given this cor- know that profit-driven insurance com- with their dominant sexual identity; an rective surgery at the tax- payer’s expense?” I can’t Former leaders of ex-gay ministry apolo- answer that without first gize for “bringing harm” and causing shame LOS ANGELES (AP)—Three former University in Irvine. leaders of a ministry that counsels gays to Exodus’ president, Alan Chambers, change their sexual orientation apolo- said the ministry's methods have helped gized, saying although they acted sin- many people, including himself. cerely, their message had caused isola- “Exodus is here for people who want an tion, shame and fear. alternative to homosexuality,” Chambers The former leaders of the interdenomi- said by phone. “There are thousands of national Christian organization Exodus people like me who have overcome this. International said Wednesday they had I think there’s room for more than one become disillusioned with promoting gay opinion on this subject, and giving peo- conversion. ple options isn't dangerous.” “Some who heard our message were Founded in 1976, the Orlando, Fla.- compelled to try to change an integral based Exodus has grown to include more part of themselves, bringing harm to than 120 ministries in the United States themselves and their families,” the three and Canada and over 150 ministries over- said in a statement released outside the seas. It promotes “freedom from homo- Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center. sexuality” through prayer, counseling The statement was from former Exodus and group therapy. co-founder Michael Bussee, who left the group in 1979, Jeremy Marks, Jennifer L. Dexter former president of Exodus Attorney at Law & Notary Public International Europe, and Darlene Bogle, the founder Specializing in: Real Estate, Family of Paraklete Ministries, an Law, Wills, Education Law & Exodus referral agency. Criminal Law The statement coincided 95 State St., Suite 724 with the opening of Exodus' annual conference, Springfield, MA 01103 which is being held this attydexter@comcast.net week at Concordia 413-214-7626 16 • July 5-18, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com ut O tories ComingS When the student becomes the teacher By: Michael A. Knipp* parents created, I would pay a price. defined but nar- opponents of the unordinary to students Special for TRT Without ever uttering the word “dis- row lines of of moral evolution. As such, they’ve both s children, we’re taught many owned,” they made clear the conse- “right” and learned a lesson. things. quences my actions would reap should I “wrong”: My A lesson in loving. Without conditions. A violate their self-imposed laws. boyfriend is bira- They’ve learned that when the initial Like how to properly pass a pair of So naturally, when my mother asked cial. embarrassment—however unsubstantiat- scissors. Or raise our hands in class. Or excuse ourselves when we burp. me during a phone conversation four Wide-eyed, ed—of having a gay son subsides, love, We’re taught all of this under the notion years ago if I was gay, I said yes. once again, from above personal convictions, matters that we’ll be better equipped to teach oth- In an instant, my parents’ cautionary disapproval, my more. And in meeting my boyfriend, ers when it’s our turn. threats materialized; the penalties of my mother asked, they’ve found that despite the color of his But at some point – generally during insubordination came down like a ham- “Now you’re skin he’s as handsome, charismatic and MICHAEL A. KNIPP adolescence—some of what we’re taught mer. dating a black intelligent as any white guy I’ve brought begins to conflict with what we feel is Consumed by emotion, my parents— guy?” home. right. Like whether or not we’re obligat- my mother especially—made sure I knew “No,” I quipped. “He’s only half In fact, proof of their graduation from ed to practice a certain religion. Or have exactly how they felt about my confes- black.” provincial pupils to my erudite equals same-sex relationships. Or fall in love sion. And while neither one of them went Humbly, she digressed, and kept to her- was delivered just last month. so far as to tell me I couldn’t come home, with someone outside our respective self whatever remark was bubbling My mother, upon first glance of the they made my life difficult—if only as races. inside. She understood – having previ- man I love, said he was cute—a compli- reparation for rebelling their authority. ment that would have never left her lips The latter, unlike the former, aren’t part ously dealt with my resistance to her dic- In their defense, this reaction was con- even a year ago. of our publicly funded education–and nor sistent with how they were taught to tatorial parenting – that imparting her My father—a man of few words—was should they be. No, this education comes regard homosexuality. opinion on how to live my autonomous “impressed.” from within the stern but shaky walls of To my credit, I defended what I know adult life would result in further disinte- As am I. Impressed at how defying our own homes. Homes, that we’re to be perfectly acceptable. gration of our relationship. what I was taught has forever altered the taught, may no longer be accessible As if the first declaration didn’t unrav- To that effect, over the past four years foundation of my family. should we defy our parents’ teachings. el all that my parents worked so hard to my parents’ perspectives concerning Irrefutably, for the better. Such was the case in my own house. As instill in me, a short time ago I let them in homosexuality and, more recently, inter- * Michael A. Knipp is a 26-year-old Baltimore- a kid I was warned that if I strayed out- on another little secret that drifted racial relationships have changed. based freelance writer and the founder of side the anthropological guidelines my beyond the bounds of their clearly They’ve transformed from indignant Line/Byline Communications. He can be reached at [email protected].