BTL Talks with ACLU’s U.S. Sen. Gary Peters on Dave Noble on Why We Need to Pass Voter Mobilization the Equality Act

PAGE 6 PAGE 10 Stonewall 50 A Personal Memoir of a Year That Changed the World

Gay Liberation Front pickets Time Inc. 1970. Courtesy of NY Public Library. Author Mark Segal, front right, shares his memories of the Stonewall uprising and the year that followed, page 4.

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All material appearing 10 Parting Glances [email protected] in Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is 10 Viewpoint: Why We Need to Pass the Equality Sign up online to receive our E–Digest supported by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by our advertisers, nor Act can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. 11 Creep of the Week: Kevin Swanson Copyright 2019 www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 3 Stonewall: A Personal Memoir of a Year That Changed the World BY MARK SEGAL more change in one year for this community then any other organization since and we also hat night, standing in Stonewall, I could were certainly the most dysfunctional, and not have imagined what the next few we are all proud of that! That first year, from hours would do to change the gay and Stonewall to the first Gay Pride in 1970, was Tlesbian community around the world. I doubt pure magic. And it made our community what anyone else could have known. How could it is today. It changed our lives in so many ways we have known on June 28, 1969, that we’d be that no organization had until then. participating in history? We would no longer be invisible, we were out, It started when the lights flickered on and off, loud and proud of who we were and we would alerting the patrons to something imminent, no longer accept society’s labels, we would tell though I had no idea what. It was my second them who we were. We were not “homosexuals.” month in New York, my second month walking We were gay men, gay women, lesbians, dykes, Christopher Street, my second month being drag queens. Not only would we be open about an out and proud gay. Looking over at my who we were, we’d also be in your face to fight friend, I asked what was happening and he for our rights, not merely plead for them. This said, nonchalantly, “Oh, it’s just a raid.” As an was all revolutionary, since 99.9 percent of our 18-year-old new to everything, his words were community was in the closet and in 1969, before frightening. GLF, there were only four types of places to go. The police barged in, pushing around anyone Illegal gay bars, cruising areas, private parties, who was in drag or stereotypical-looking. They Courtesy of NY Public Library. Author Mark Segal, front right. and secret meetings of organizations, which hurled insults and hurled people around. were hidden so the police would not raid them. Anyone who looked like they were successful, just fighting back. We had imprisoned our I was at a riot that started a revolution, and GLF advertised our meetings. We advertised anyone who had a few bucks, were forced to oppressors, the police. They were now our I would be a part of it. that we were going to have a dance — women take out their wallets and, in the bright light, prisoners. In the commotion, I saw a window broken. I dancing with women, men dancing with men give their money to the cops, who slid the bills This continued for some time, and it was a didn’t see any molotov cocktails. I saw a feather — and not in an illegal bar but in public. We in their pockets. Welcome to Extortion 101. while before police reinforcement came to their boa being put on the statue of General Sheridan dared the police to raid us, and they were afraid They robbed us in plain sight, and we had no rescue. It is my belief that the reason for the in Sheridan Square. I wasn’t there when anyone to. That was rebellious! We also publicly took possible recompense. That is how they felt about slow reinforcements was the police inside that was arrested, but I was there each and every back our street — Christopher Street — by us. That’s how they felt they could treat us: any gay bar were so embarrassed to call their station night that followed, along with all of us who leafleting every night and facing off against way they wished. house and have to tell their fellow officers, would later call ourselves Gay Liberation Front. the police. We did legal alerts, medical alerts, As this was happening, they began to clear “We’re trapped and surrounded by angry fags It was the members of GLF who wrote on notices to gather for our next demonstration, the bar by carding people. To this day I don’t and dykes. Please save us.” the street that night, members of GLF who handouts for Gay Youth meetings, a hotline, the know why they were carding, since it was an The fact that we had them trapped created a stood proudly at the front doors of Stonewall nation’s first trans organization, and the nation’s illegal bar and drinking age didn’t matter, but certain joy on the street. People began to run to the second night to hear Marty Robinson first LGBT Community Center. And if all that that was the procedure. At 18 and fresh from other bars in the area, passersby turned their and Martha Shelley speak, members who were not enough, we were the organizers and Philadelphia, I looked like the boy next door. heads as they came around the corner. understood the changes we were demanding, marshals for that very first Gay Pride in 1970, They had little use for me and I was one of the While this riot was happening, Marty not asking for. which was called Christopher Street Liberation first to be carded and let out, and I was glad Robinson, who had created a group called The The third and fourth nights were filled Day March originally dreamed up by Craig about that. Action Group, came up to me with chalk, and with organizing and a circus atmosphere that Rodwell, and Ellen Broidy. But as I came out, I saw an obvious difference said, “Write on the walls and street, ‘Tomorrow continued the entire week. We were joyous, Stonewall was not one night, it was a year, in what certain clientele were doing. Those Night, Stonewall.” I have no idea where he got since from the ashes of Stonewall came Gay and GLF was its spirit. That spirit of rebellion with family ties, those with a good job, those the chalk, but I’m thankful he got it. That chalk Liberation Front, a group that would turn transformed our world. Before Stonewall, less on the fast track to a professional career, all was a catalyst for much more than one night our community and the world upside down. then a hundred out people represented us, ran for the subway as soon as they could get of rebelling. Also from the third night on, leafleting began all white men and white women, no diversity out that door. People like me, a street kid living From the river, to Greenwich, all along on Christopher Street. For the first time we allowed. One year later at Gay Pride, people of at Sloane House YMCA on 34th street, and Christopher Street, I wrote. “Tomorrow Night, were united, and for the first time we were a color, trans people and youth, gathered under others, who today you’d call trans, just stuck Stonewall.” diversified community. a grassroots movement that welcomed all around. We had nowhere safe to go. Our safety People ran and screamed and laughed. It was Let’s make this clear, before GLF, you didn’t segments of our community, we were not 100 was with each other, right there, watching what a joyous evening. We were fighting off 2,000 see anyone but white men in suits and ties picketing once a year. We were now thousands. was transpiring. years of oppression, though we didn’t realize and white women in dresses representing the I wasn’t just at Stonewall, more importantly, Eventually, there were more of us outside, it in that moment. LGBT community. Those earlier organizations I was with Gay Liberation Front. and inside the bar remained only the police Amid the joy and the excitement, I had a light wouldn’t have anyone else as spokespeople. Stonewall and GLF are synonymous. One and employees. Those of us who stayed formed bulb moment. Standing across the street from That is why I was in the Action Group. night led to one magical year. A year that a semicircle around the double doors into the Stonewall, watching everything around me, I Mattachine didn’t want me, a youth of 18, in changed the world. street. My memory tells me that there were thought to myself, “Black people are fighting their office since they felt they could be raided between 50 and a 100 of us. The doors opened for their lives, women are fighting for their for corrupting the morals of minors. And drag and the police shouted out a few insults and lives. Latinos are fighting for their lives. What queens, people of color? They were ignored Mark Segal is publisher of The Philadelphia told us to disperse. We didn’t. They opened about us? What about me?” by those groups. But we in GLF welcomed Gay News and last year his personal papers the door a second time and again spewed It was at that point that I finally knew what I’d all. From lesbian separatists, to radical fairy and artifacts including some from this article insults, demanding we disperse. We didn’t, do for the rest of my life. I would be something collectives, youths, street kids and, yes, drag were inducted into The Smithsonian Institute and this time we yelled insults back at them. that didn’t exist yet, something that didn’t have queens, they were all GLF. You may have heard American History Museum in Washington, D.C. They closed the door, and at that point people a title, something that had no salary: a gay about a couple of our members: Marsha P. His Memoir “And Then I Danced, Traveling The picked up whatever there was around them: activist. I didn’t know, and I didn’t care, how Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, they were welcomed. Road To LGBT Equality” was named book of stones, discarded soda cans and bottles. For difficult it would be. All I knew in that moment GLF is the most important LGBT the year by the National Lesbian Gay Journalist the first time in history our community wasn’t was that I found what I was meant to do. organization to have ever existed. We made Association.

4 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com

Noble Takes Helm at ACLU Seeks To Mobilize LGBTQ and Ally Voters

BY EVE KUCHARSKI

very Michigander above the age of 6 or so A Burgeoning Interest should know of Lansing, and if they don’t in Politics it’s guaranteed that the decisions made Ein the state’s capital have at some point had a When asked what motivated him to get direct impact on their lives. Still, as important his start in politics Noble was upfront: “It’s as this city is for Michigan’s citizens, it’s fair to completely connected to me realizing I was gay.” say that it’s usually not one’s first pick when “I remember still, I grew up in a family that planning a vacation in the state. was not very political at all. I grew up in Rhode “People would ask me where I was going on Island. If we talked about politics at all my vacation and I would say ‘Lansing,’ and they’d parents were what I think is referred to now say, ‘Who vacations there?’” as New England Republicans, but they weren’t Thankfully for the ACLU of Michigan, its super engaged,” he said. newly hired Executive Director Dave Noble It really wasn’t until the 1992 presidential does. That’s important because, among a variety election that Noble took an interest in anything of other reasons, it’s partially why he became related to the political sphere. It was around that familiar not only with the state but why he felt time that Noble was coming to terms with his There are lots of other opportunities for work to get comfortable taking on his current role. sexuality and he heard Republican candidate Pat Buchanan of Virginia mention the LGBTQ “ “I’d spent some time as a consultant to really done and I’m excited to work with not just the rest of figure out [what to do] after the [Obama] community during a political debate. administration ended. I knew I wanted to take “I still remember so clearly the 1992 election, the LGBTQ community but with elected officials who time to decide where I could make the most sitting there in my mother’s family room have said, ‘Yeah, it’s time for us to make progress; let’s difference in the next chapter. Why Michigan? watching Pat Buchanan at the 1992 Republican Not only had I done this work in Michigan convention go on and on about this culture see what we can get done.’ before — and I had been coming to Michigan war that he felt we needed to have because of to vacation with groups of friends — but over people like me existing,” Noble said. “And I ” – Dave Noble the last 15 years at least once a year I’d find had started to pay more attention to politics BTL Photo: Roxanne Frith myself in Michigan.” that year. I was always a student of history – I thought I wanted to be a history teacher – but it In fact, though Noble is originally from America in the 2000 election. In 2002 I left the His work on that project resulted in his Rhode Island and spent a large portion of his was really that election that crystalized for me the fact that this was something that I wanted Young Democrats and went back to Rhode highest profile job with the Obama campaign career in Washington, D.C., Michigan has Island to work on a governor’s race, but after where as director of the LGBT vote he was been a recurring theme for him throughout to do and that I felt really called to do.” Fast forward a few years to Noble’s college that cycle I realized the reason I had gotten responsible for garnering support from the his career. For example, while he was working involved in politics in the first place was because community to aid Obama’s campaign. After with The National Stonewall Democrats and days and the political interest he’d had before had turned into the majors of political science I was gay and because I knew how important it Obama won the 2008 presidential election, the Obama presidential campaign, Michigan was for people like me that policymakers were Noble stayed on for the full eight years of was a fixture in his career. and communications at Rhode Island College. While taking a summer course one year he folks who would affirm our existence and were his two terms, aiding NASA for part of that But beyond his general familiarity and simply not out to oppress us,” he said. time, until he transitioned from consulting liking the state as a travel destination, Noble bumped into a young state senator who he later befriended and who got him his first job Knowing that he wanted to get into LGBT- into his current role at the ACLU. Though not was particular in his decision to work with specific work, Noble began to run The National exclusively LGBTQ-specific work, Noble said the Michigan’s branch of the ACLU after the on a political campaign. “This was in [the] ’96 cycle. From that Stonewall Democrats. While there he started he’s glad to be working in a space that deals departure of his predecessor Kary L. Moss. a network of campus chapters called The directly with those issues and he feels a sense of “I also followed what the ACLU of Michigan campaign, I started working with a local candidate who was running for the state senate Stonewall Student Network, the first one in responsibility as a prominent, openly LGBTQ did with Prop 3 (to expand voter rights) and Ann Arbor. political figure. really knew how well-respected, well-regarded at the time. She was progressive, running against an incumbent who was not, and I did “We brought Barney Frank out and had a “I’ll say that I’m very much reminded of my the team here was as fighters in so many ways big event and did that for two years. After the privilege, that I have the opportunity to work at to stand up for civil liberties throughout the everything from knocking on doors with her to going over her positions to helping run 2004 cycle, I went to what was then called the an organization where I’m not worried about state,” he said. “So, I looked at this opportunity National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and for 3 being fired from for being gay but I do work as a chance to come to a state where there’s a lot election day,” Noble said. “And by the end of that election, which we didn’t win, I knew this 1/2 years I worked there,” he said. “I lead their in a state surrounded by folks who still are. of work that still needs to be done ... but also faith organizing, I lead their team of legislative So I’m reminded of that. I also feel a sense of there’s a lot of potential to do good work with was the kind of work that I wanted to do.” Now with a set career path, Noble spent time lobbyists, I would go and work on different responsibility as a gay kid growing up and not an amazing team of staff, board members and ballot measure campaigns and I did a lot of knowing anyone else in my high school who supporters who have a proven track record of working on local Rhode Island elections and his first paid political gig involved preventing our trans work there as well, including in 2007 was gay and not having anyone, no adults who getting things done.” when there was the federal effort to try to move I knew who were gay,” he said. “While things On a sunny June morning just months after a for-profit health care system from buying a nonprofit hospital, eventually landing him a the Federal Non-Discrimination Act. ... I’m have certainly changed everywhere since the settling into his new role, Noble took time out very proud of the fact that since then no real early ‘90s when I was figuring out that I was of his busy schedule to chat with Between The position with the AFL-CIO, the state Senate and to founding the Rhode Island Chapter of push with any momentum at the federal level gay, I do feel a sense of responsibility that those Lines about his goals at the ACLU, his tips for has been made to move non-discrimination of us with the privilege and opportunity to be fighting back against discriminatory policies the Young Democrats of America. “That is what eventually brought me to D.C. language forward without gender identity out to fill that role.” at the state and national level, and his own protections.” political background. I went to D.C. to run the Young Democrats of 6 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com gender identity. Goals for a New Role “It needs to happen. It’s 2019 and it’s going As extensive as Noble’s resume is, it’s to be 2020 next year and you can still be fired easy to see how the skills he’s gained in for being LGBTQ and, of course, as we’re very his other positions can transfer into his familiar here at the ACLU, we have folks like new role at the ACLU. However, when Aimee Stephens who are,” he said. “I know there asked how he hopes to make a lasting are some folks who try to say, ‘Well, we don’t impression in his new job, his focus need this bill because discrimination doesn’t isn’t on his own accomplishments actually happen in Michigan.’ Well, you know, but on helping ACLU supporters we can introduce you to her. Discrimination across Michigan become a “statewide happens in Michigan.” grassroots mobilized force.” “So, as we move into election cycles Getting Involved in the Fight it is important to me in how we measure success based on if city and As valuable as personal goals are, Noble said town clerks are implementing Prop that he’s eager to use the community framework 3 properly, and are we holding folks to encourage people both newly interested and accountable and holding folks’ feet to veterans of the local political scene to take an the fire who might be dragging their active role in the upcoming election cycle. feet on making those changes? And “We now have members — whether they really making sure that this mobilized got inspired as Trump became president or community here in Michigan – that whether they’re inspired because they’re upset their voice is heard on all of these with their local prosecutor or they’re inspired issues,” he said. because they understand what needs to happen Besides making sure to address when it comes to state legislation — who accountability, Noble said he’s are working to engage folks who have been focused on expanding on the current mobilized in the last couple of years,” he said. progressive groundwork in Michigan “And we’re gonna use this sort of strong political that’s been building, especially since muscle moving forward to now leverage this the last election, like the triple election mobilized community to make changes on all of a progressive attorney general, of our issues.” secretary of state and governor — As important as that is, that will require the among other politicians. construction of infrastructure he said. “I think building upon that amazing “One thing I’m really excited to do here is groundwork that’s been laid in the last to be a coach and cheerleader not just for the couple of years here is our best way team here but to really build infrastructure to achieve success on a whole host of throughout the state so that we’re focused on issues,” Noble said. all of the ACLU issues and of course all of the And when trying to tackle the ACLU issues impact LGBTQ people,” Noble breadth of issues that the ACLU has taken on, said. “Our criminal justice reform certainly it’s clear they are many. At the moment the impacts the parts of our community that are ACLU is pursuing a variety of cases touching over-policed just like the rest of the state. [And upon topics ranging from immigrants’ rights, regarding] immigration, I did a ton of work women’s rights, education, search and seizure when I came to trans asylum seekers last year and more. Noble said he avoids burnout himself and immigration here in Michigan and abuses by taking time to take stock of the fact that by the government on immigration and that even though the current administration is a certainly impacts our community, too.” hostile one toward many issues pertaining to And building that infrastructure, legislatively marginalized groups — particularly within or otherwise, is something that the ACLU can the LGBTQ community — there has been always use supporters to do. He said that the significant progress made. best way for someone to aid the ACLU in its “We are still making a ton of progress. You efforts for change is simply to pay attention to still see [it] ... in politics where you see more the political world around them and then to and more openly LGBT people running for feel empowered to find opportunities locally to or getting elected to office. Back in the D.C. get involved. That could involve speaking with suburbs Danica Roem being elected as the lawmakers, voting and even raising awareness first out trans person in the state legislature among one’s peers. and then last year eight more folks,” he said, “There’s still work that the legislature needs to also adding the more than 100 policy wins that do and community members and like-minded happened during the Obama administration. Michiganders, whether they be LGBTQ or “So, we are still seeing progress even with folks not, who care about equality need to pay trying to get in the way. In fact, it is because attention and weigh in with legislators and we are seeing so much progress, I think, that pay attention to what legislators are doing with this is why people are trying to get in the way. equality,” Noble said. “There are lots of other They’re scared. We’ve got them scared.” opportunities for work to get done and I’m Specifically, however, one of the biggest goals excited to work with not just the rest of the regarding LGBTQ issues would undoubtedly LGBTQ community but with elected officials would be to amend the Elliott-Larsen Civil who have said, ‘Yeah, it’s time for us to make Rights Act to include sexual orientation and progress; let’s see what we can get done.’” www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 7 Tecumseh High School Teacher Recognized for LGBTQ-Inclusive Efforts BY DREW HOWARD

oming out as LGBTQ as a high school student or earlier is rarely a simple affair with an almost built-in expectation of Ca period of exclusion after doing so. However, what’s not expected is for that exclusion to be present in one’s school curriculum. Kristalyn Musselman is lending a helping hand to her LGBTQ students as they face a unique set of hurdles in their educational journey, particularly in the realm of health education, and she has been recognized for that work. The Tecumseh high school teacher was recently chosen out of over 500 applicants as one of the 10 Michigan Regional Teachers of the Year for her efforts to improve the lives of marginalized students. “When I found out about being selected to represent my region, I was completely shocked,” Musselman told BTL. “There are so many amazing educators in the state, and I almost didn’t believe that I was one of them. I had feelings of excitement and disbelief.” Musselman, who teaches health and leadership at Tecumseh High School, was chosen in April to represent her region Tecumseh High School teacher Kristalyn Musselman with her students. Courtesy of Kristalyn Musselman. covering Lenawee, Hillsdale, Monroe, Jackson, Livingston and Washtenaw counties. It is especially fitting, perhaps, that Musselman School while I was working to finish that degree Allendale, Michigan, school district this year, was recognized for her inclusivity-focused and certification.” leadership saw strong pushback from parents approach as health education across the U.S. “I taught special education for students with after a high school elective teacher discussed has been reported to be glaringly out of date. learning disabilities for the first four years of both sexual and gender identity with students. According to a 2017 national study by my career, and then the Health position opened News of the class lesson resulted in nonprofit GLSEN, only 6.7 percent of LGBTQ up and I moved into that position,” she said. the formation of a parent group called students reported receiving inclusive sex It wasn’t until Musselman joined the Sexual Conservatives of Allendale Stand Together, education reflective of their identity. The same Health Initiative for Transformation as the who called for the elimination of LGBTQ study found that just one tenth of LGBTQ group’s co-chair that she learned new and issues in all classes in a 29-page letter to students were enrolled in a school with official forward-thinking ways to create an inclusive the school board. The group also asked that policies to support transgender and gender classroom setting for LGBTQ students. The five- mentions of queer and transgender students non-conforming students. It also found that year initiative was purposed with improving in the school district’s anti-bullying campaign Teacher Kristalyn Musselman that many such students don’t have access to adolescent health through exemplary sexual be taken away. LGBTQ-related topics in the school library, health education, improved access to sexual The letter states that LGBTQ issues “may textbooks and other assigned readings. health services and the establishment of safe have significant physical and mental health While it’s certainly a long road ahead before and supportive environments for students and ramifications” and that including queer and friendly curriculum in her classroom. an LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum becomes the staff. trans kids in anti-bullying materials would “I have noticed that all students are becoming norm, Musselman is actively fighting for that “I was able to attend some amazing increase discrimination against those who are more comfortable asking questions in my reality. Perhaps that stems from that fact that workshops and trainings that opened my eyes not pro-LGBTQ. class during sex education,” she said. “And I teaching has always been in Musselman’s blood. and made me realize how LGBT students are at For those in support of LGBTQ-inclusive feel this increase in comfort level is due to an “Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted a higher risk for a multitude of adverse health sex education, it isn’t about pushing an agenda; environment feeling more safe and welcoming.” to be a teacher,” Musselman said. “My parents conditions, including depression and suicide,” it’s about protecting students. According to the Moving forward, Musselman said there is and grandparents were teachers and coaches, Musselman said. “They are also more likely to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still much more work to do in fostering an and I grew up helping my dad in his classroom be bullied and discriminated against.” in 2014, men who are having sex with other inclusive school environment. and pretending to be a teacher.” An inclusive health education class should men accounted for 83 percent of primary and “Creating a climate of culture and acceptance Following in the tradition of her family, provide information on gender identity, secondary syphilis cases. Such men often get and empathy is an ongoing battle,” she said. Musselman attended Western Kentucky gender expression and sexual orientation with other STDs, including chlamydia and gonorrhea “Schools need to provide training to their staff University on a softball scholarship where she examples of LGBT relationships and families, infections. on the importance of creating an inclusive earned her undergraduate degree in School Musselman said. The CDC also reported that these men and safe environment within their classrooms. Health Education. She was later prompted to “It’s important that sex education not simply are 17 times more likely to get anal cancer Teachers need tangible ideas that they can continue her education after discovering her focus on heterosexual relationships between than heterosexual men and that men who are implement into their day to day classroom passion for special education in Michigan. cisgender people,” she said. “These lessons must HIV-positive are at a higher risk of getting anal structure.” “I moved back to Michigan and began encourage and explain protection during sex cancer. Meanwhile, lesbian and bisexual women She continued, “Before the workshops I substitute teaching and realized that I also for people of all identities while engaging in are reported to get less routine care than other attended, I truly had no idea how to support loved teaching Special Education,” she said. “I all kinds of sexual behavior.” woman, including breast and cervical cancer and include LGBT students ... It just wasn’t on decided to get my master’s degree in special LGBTQ-inclusive sex education remains a screenings. Musselman said she has already my radar. And I know that most other educators education and got a job at Tecumseh High divisive issue among school districts. In the seen the results of implementing an LGBTQ- would feel the same way.” 8 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 9 Parting Glances BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

Editor’s Note: Contributor Charles Alexander fell ill last monthand was unable to provide his usual weekly Parting Glances Column. This selection was chosen in honor of Pride month and Stonewall’s 50th Anniversary. Everyone at Between The Lines wishes Alexander a speedy recovery. This column first appeared in BTL 6/26/14 Blackmail Stonewall Style ifty years ago when closets were leased for a lifetime, it was SOP – standard operating procedure – to go by a catchy nickname. FSome gay/lesbian Detroit monikers I recall as friends are Little Bobby, Little Pat, Estralita, Marshmallow, T.D. (Tall Dick), Savoy, B.J. (Butch Jimmy), Miss Bruce and, among Dykes Anonymous: Big Red, Skye, Petey, Speedy, Rusty, Drano, Little Blue Birdy. Long before the tracheal advent of gay porn stars, I was actually introduced to a guy – of dubious intellectual and moral turpitude, to be sure – who went by the hustler alias of Dallas Copenhagen. ‘Cope’ for short. (I suspect he no longer holds dual citizenship, or turpitude of any kind, in this world.) My own ID was Angular Al. (Brando Bob when out hitchhiking in my 32-inch waist “White Goddess” Levi’s.) Our nicknames provided a protective distancing ‘til we found out who we could trust as lover, friend, trick or washroom towel attendant. Nicknames kept nasty people from calling our folks, our employers, our shrink – our parole board – and made blackmail (an ever-present danger back then) less likely. Speaking of which: I was surprised to learn that the famous Viewpoint Stonewall Inn – where the modern Gay Lib movement began in 1969 – was a home base for blackmailers operating on a colossal entrapment scale. According to historian David Carter’s “Stonewall: The Riots that Sparked the Gay Revolution” (St. Martin’s Griffin Press), the Mafia-owned Stonewall Inn did legit business under a special, loophole, membership license. Members were allowed to bring their own booze for bartender Why We Need to Pass the Equality Act pouring (with tips). Booze – watered down – was also sold on the premises. Prospective new Stonewallers filled out index cards: name, address, telephone number. Bartenders – gay-hating thugs, hand-picked for implementing set-ups and stings – sized up new customers. BY U.S. SEN. GARY PETERS (D-MICHIGAN) Anyone who appeared well-dressed (even casually so) – who seemed several cuts above the impoverished street queens and f you looked up homosexuality in the American Psychiatric be turned away from serving their country simply because flamers who regularly danced there – was game. Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 50 years of who they are. During my service in the U.S. Navy Reserve, Cute waiters (all gay) were ordered to be friendly with ago, you would see it listed as a mental disorder. I served with many brave and dedicated men and women. I these “scores,” chat them up, gradually – after a few drinks or IThere’s no question we’ve come a long way since then. This was never concerned about their sexual orientation: only that touchy-feely back room visits – finding out where they worked, month, we celebrate a month that honors the contributions they were committed to defending our country. I also signed what make of car they drove, whether they were married, how and sacrifices of the entire LGBTQ community. Pride Month an amicus curiae brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to many kids they had. All casually fished out by buddy-buddy is a time to reflect and recognize the perseverance of the strike down the Defense of Marriage Act – and I’m glad it did. conversations. entire LGBTQ community in the face of extreme bigotry And we all remember June 26, 2015: the day when Hustlers were also threatened by the Stonewall Inn mafia and discrimination. marriage equality was achieved across the country. It was a guys to come on to these newcomers, trick with them, get them In a short few years, we’ve made huge strides. In Congress, beautiful moment – and one that was made possible in part stewed and steal their wallets. ID to be turned over to mafia I’ve been fortunate to see this progress firsthand and help by April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse: two Michiganders who lead the fight for equal rights. I was proud to vote in favor of See next page repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” because no patriot should See Viewpoint, continued on p. 11 10 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com ® Viewpoint: U.S. Sen. Peters Continued from p. 11 Creep Of The Week wanted to start a loving family. They took can truly have the chance to succeed. The BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI their adoption case all the way to the Equality Act can help change that – I’m highest court in the land. glad the House passed this bill, and it’s It took courage – and America is better past time for Leader Mitch McConnell because of it. to put it on the Senate floor for a vote. it’s true, LGBTQ lives are But there’s more work to be done. We need to get to the point where every Kevin Swanson Here in Michigan and in many places American feels confidence in the notion inherently political, whether we across the country, you can still be fired that they will not face discrimination just finished watching the music video for simply for being who you are, denied because of their sexual orientation. Even Taylor Swift’s “You Need To Calm Down.” want them to be or not. So if a an apartment or mortgage or refused today, legally married same-sex couples It’s cute. It’s catchy. And all of Big Gay is service at a restaurant. That is wrong and are struggling to do something as simple Iin it. That it ends with a call to sign a Change. pop superstar wants to throw must change. as amend their taxes to reflect their org petition in favor of the Equality Act is nice, her support behind equality, Every American has the right to be with corrected marital status. Just this week, though it would be more useful to direct people the person they love and not worry that I cosponsored the Refund Equality Act to how to register to vote because the Equality Act inclusion and love, I ain’t mad. it will lead to discrimination in any form. ensure that every married couple is able is never going to pass with Republicans in charge. This is why I proudly support the Equality to file amended joint tax returns back to Swift has gotten some flack for the video. Kevin Swanson, a right-wing Act. Employers should be prohibited the date of their marriage. Apparently, there was a rumor that Swift was from discriminating against individuals We have shown before that as a country going to come out as bi and/or she and Katy Perry radio preacher, is SO MAD, based on their sexual orientation and/ we can rise above and stand stronger were going to make out but that didn’t happen. though. or gender identity. By ensuring that together in the face of hardship. Fifty Swift and Perry DO, however, hug while wearing the Civil Rights Act includes a clause years ago this week, the Stonewall riots hamburger and fry costumes, which does prohibiting discrimination based on took place that sparked the movement make them legally married in McDonaldland, of protesters who are portrayed as stereotypical sexual orientation and gender identity, helping us to where we are today. As presuming that Mayor McCheese issues them a rednecks, complete with signs that read things we can take a huge step towards a Senator, I’ll always support this movement marriage license before the Hamburglar steals it. like, “Homasekualty is a sin” and “Get a brain more inclusive and equal country for by defending the rights of all Americans: Anyway, I’m old enough to remember when morans!” So, yes, these people are intentionally all Americans. If we ensure equality at no matter whom they love or how they people were mad at Taylor Swift for not being made to look dumb and ugly, but hate is dumb every level then there will be no worry identify. political enough (and there were rumors she and ugly so... of inequality at any level. might’ve voted for Trump). I’m also young Swanson has a word of warning for Swift. We have yet to fully come together and enough to remember when people were mad “You can get a little extra cash in your pocket, show that we are a country where anyone at Swift for being too political, like when she you can feel like you can get along without God, released this music video. you can start making your own rules and afford And it’s true, LGBTQ lives are inherently to sin a little more, but that’s just the utmost in political, whether we want them to be or not. foolishness,” Swanson says. “That’s the total lack So if a pop superstar wants to throw her support of the fear of God because the eyes of the Lord ® behind equality, inclusion and love, I ain’t mad. Parting Glances But Murphy proved a canny operator. are every place beholding the evil and good.” Kevin Swanson, a right-wing radio preacher, Continued from p. 10 He managed to sidestep indictment, time OK. So if I’m following Swanson right, he’s is SO MAD, though. after time – for one important reason: a saying that just because you’re rich doesn’t mean “Taylor Swift, most popular female singer in buddy-buddy photo of him with America’s God can’t kill you. So, also, spoiler alert: Taylor America today, released a song promoting the bosses. Or else! Big Untouchable; Federal Bureau of Swift is going to die. I know that’s a bummer, Leviticus 16 list of abominations, pretty much,” According to Carter, the blackmail ring Investigation chief J. Edgar Hoover. but we all are. So maybe don’t devote your life to Swanson says on his radio show. operated mostly in New York City and Writes Carter, “...investigation into the hating people? That’s the message of “You Need I’m not sure, but I think “The Leviticus 16” Chicago: “[The operation’s] scope and nationwide blackmail ring had turned up a to Calm Down,” actually. Swift is saying love is a new new K-pop group, or it will be soon. size were staggering: having operated for photograph of Hoover ‘posing amiably’ [in yourself, love others, eat some cake, and also “‘You Need to Calm Down’ is the name of almost ten years, the ring victimized close drag] with the racket’s ringleader, and had throw some cake on the ground for some reason. the song, and she’s apparently telling God to to a thousand men [netting $2 million] uncovered information that Clyde Tolson, But that’s not the conclusion Swanson comes calm down about all of his ethical concerns,” who were highly successful. Hoover’s lover, had himself ‘fallen victim to. Swanson continues. “The video is pushing a “Among those listed [in an ongoing to the extortion ring.’” Oh, yes; Hoover’s “In the words of Johnny Cash, ‘You can run petition to support the Equality Act, which is police investigation] were the head of SOP – Dick Tracy. Tolson’s: Tess Trueheart. on a long time, but one of these days God will now before the U.S. Senate and it’s intended to the AMA, two army generals, Admiral “After federal agents joined the cut you down,’” Swanson said. “So what do we persecute Christians who don’t want to celebrate William Church [a suicide], a Republican investigation, both the photograph of say to Taylor Swift and her new concoction ‘You homosexual heathen rites and rituals.” member of Congress from New Jersey Hoover and the documents about Tolson Need to Calm Down’? I think we just tell Taylor “Homosexual heathen rites and rituals” [$50,000], a Princeton professor, ‘a leading disappeared. Poof!” (Actually two ‘poofs,’ Swift she’s a fool. That she doesn’t fear God, and sounds pretty badass. motion picture actor,’ ‘a musician who but who’s counting?) sooner or later, God will cut her down.” made numerous appearances on television,’ Seriously, though. The Equality Act supports Uh, sure. But at this very moment children heads of business firms, ‘a much admired things like living in a home, having a job, who’ve been kidnapped by our government are attending school and going to a store. You know, television personality’ and ‘a British Charles Alexander is prolific both as a sitting in their own filth in concentration camps super freaky stuff. producer.’’’ BTL columnist (700-plus columns) and as while the Trump Administration argues before a “The message [of Swift’s video] is basically The shaved-head arachnid behind a well-known LGBT community artist (1000 court that there is no obligation to provide these this: we’re beautiful and we’re right and those of the blackmail spider web was Francis P. Facebook images). He is a Spirit of Detroit kids with soap, or toothbrushes, or beds. And you opposed ... you’re poor and dumb,” Swanson Murphy, known among his cronies as Award recipient and an Affirmations LGBT you the Republican response to outrage over laments. “The Skull.” His criminal record began CENTER Jan Stevenson awardee. Connect these atrocities is, “You need to calm down.” Now, in the video the LGBTQ people are at conception. His den was above the with him at [email protected]. I’ll take Taylor Swift’s version any day. Stonewall Inn bar. portrayed as fabulous, and then there’s a group www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 11 Kalamazoo Pride: 1 Festival, 4 Perspectives

BY ELLEN SHANNA KNOPPOW

alamazoo Pride, a two-day festival celebrating southwest Michigan’s LGBTQ community, was at Arcadia KCreek Festival Place June 7 to 8. Between The Lines spent the second day at the park, and spoke with individuals while they staffed vendor tables, enjoyed the entertainment, perused the merchandise or simply chilled out in the shade on that very sunny day. Here are just four of those stories. Two Organizers “We’re so happy, and we’re so proud,” said Grayson Valenti, office manager of OutFront Kalamazoo and one of the organizers of Kalamazoo Pride. OutFront is the LGBTQ community center that benefits from the proceeds of the event. “My co-worker went up on stage yesterday to look at the crowd and it was incredible. We’re just so happy that Hoadley (D-Kalamazoo) could not have been “One thing, for anyone that’s worked on everything’s running smoothly and everybody more in his element. He stepped away from a campaign, sometimes getting volunteer to seems to be having a great time.” Two Allies his very busy booth to talk pride and politics help with a festival or a parade can be a bit with BTL. of a challenge, but with Pride, it is the easiest Valenti isn’t the only one who remarked on It’s not unusual to see allies attending Pride “I love Kalamazoo Pride,” Hoadley said. “It piece,” Hoadley said. “So many young people the huge crowd Friday night. The event overall festivals in support of their LGBTQ friends and really draws in supporters, both LGBT people are raising their hand, and so many people was the largest in Kalamazoo Pride’s history. family, or just there to have a good time in an and allies from across southwest Michigan. of all ages want to get involved, want to work “This is such a big community event and we inclusive, welcoming space. But to witness an It’s really an opportunity for everyone to come the booth, want to connect with folks that are have people coming from out of state — even ally mom in tears at Kalamazoo Pride who was together and not only show up and show their here. So, I think that’s incredible. I love seeing Indiana and Ohio — just to come to Kalamazoo there to celebrate her transgender daughter who support for equality but then the way they that energy on our campaign. And the other Pride,” Valenti said. “It’s so incredible.” currently lives out of state and did not attend structure Kalamazoo Pride is the proceeds of thing I’d say is Kalamazoo Pride marks the Maime Butler, an OutFront board member the festival was something that stood out. Ellen the event benefit OutFront Kalamazoo,” he said, start of Sparkleberry season, so I always look who also helped organize the festival agreed. Swarts and Sarina Swarts-Kinsey came from adding that having such a place to go for people forward to having a Sparkleberry beer here “I think sometimes we think that Kalamazoo Sturgis, Michigan, at the Indiana border to who are faced with discrimination, harassment at Kalamazoo Pride,” he said, of the seasonal Pride is small, it’s just going to be serving attend Kalamazoo Pride this year. BTL spoke or are coming out “is still as important in 2019 beverage offered by Bell’s Brewery, a major Kalamazoo people, and we know everybody with the two ally family members once they as it was 50 years ago” — a reference to the 50th sponsor of the festival and whose Pride-style here. But I think this year proved that finished loading up with pride merchandise anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. corporate flag flew over Arcadia Park along Kalamazoo Pride is so much more impactful from one of the vendor tables. Hoadley announced his candidacy for U.S. with the universal rainbow one. than for just Kalamazoo people,” she said. “And “My sister is transgender,” said Swarts-Kinsey. Congress just a few months ago, and he spoke I think that’s a pretty big deal. I give a lot of “She lives in LA, doing her dream job,” where about that, too. props to OutFront staff and the Executive she is “very socially accepted.” “It has been such an exciting time so far The Newbie Director Denise Miller. They worked really, “Los Angeles was so much easier for her to run for Congress,” he said. “And I think really hard to get this to be successful and I to move to because of the openness and the Attending a Pride festival for the first time we’re at a generational moment. Where there’s think they have gone above and beyond that.” inclusivity,” her mother added. was Lily, a high school student there with two a number of big-picture issues that people are Valenti, who was on the volunteer steering When asked what it was like experiencing friends. With curly dark hair and glasses, Lily hungry for wholesale change and equality is committee, ordered supplies for the event and Kalamazoo Pride on behalf of her daughter, was the tallest of the trio, all of whom wore one of them. It was not lost on me that when was responsible for coordinating the vendors Swarts, who sported a rainbow temporary hand-painted T-shirts and flags around their we had Democratic control of Congress ... we along with another OutFront staff member. tattoo, teared up. Her daughter began, “This is shoulders. are for the first time able to put the Equality He was impressed by the number of vendors really hopeful,” Swarts-Kinsey said. “I’m gonna “It’s very interesting,” Lily said when asked Act up for a vote and pass it out of the U.S. and sponsors as well. He also remarked on the say that I hope that this is the world that she to comment on the Pride experience. “I wasn’t House of Representatives. It was unfortunate community support, as did Butler. gets to live in all the time. It’s sad that we have ever sure what it was because I had just — I had that the current Representative for the 6th “I think in the year of the Trump to wait for it to come around once a year.” always heard, ‘Hey, there’s Pride downtown.’ Congressional District in Southwest Michigan Administration, the year of the United “Yes,” Swarts said. “She only came out about ‘What’s that?’ ‘Oh, yeah, it’s a festival where all voted no and didn’t support fairness and Methodist Church deciding not to have gay a year and a half ago. And it was very, very of us get together.’ ‘What happens there?’ And equality,” he said, referring to Congressman marriages, I think it is so important that the hard. And that breaks my heart.” She paused, here I am! I’ve got my trans flag and my button. Fred Upton (R-MI6). “And I think it is yet people who showed up today are sending a and added through tears, “’cause I love her no “It’s honestly very fun to just be here, and another example of where there is a clear message not only locally, but to the United matter what. Everybody else should, too.” I actually saw somebody I didn’t expect to States, that we’re here. We love ourselves, and difference in how we solve problems and the see,” Lily continued. “And it’s just interesting we love our family. Even the allies that are here values that we share.” seeing everybody in one place. And I love it. ... I think that is the most important thing that The Candidate for Congress Before Hoadley had to head back to the I’m following the two experienced ones here booth, he added a few thoughts about what like a lost duckling. It’s very fun.” people can do right now with what is going on As an LGBTQ elected official running for in the United States is to back each other, and makes Kalamazoo Pride is so special for him higher office who was working the crowd at a personally. For a complete photo album, go to... to support LGBTQ+ people.” Pride festival in his hometown, state Rep. Jon http://www.pridesource.com

12 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com Grosse Pointe Pride Features 2 Notable Grosse Pointe South High School Graduates

BY ELLEN SHANNA KNOPPOW of heat.” For a complete photo album, go to... http://www.pridesource.com Montgomery died in 2016, and the two never Unlikely Pair, an Unlikely Pride met. But Rowady called it “really, really cool” an accomplished dancer to boot, the lady with that as chairman of Equality Michigan, he has the effervescent name did not disappoint. Lip- Equality Michigan Chairman of the Board the same role that Montgomery had in the syncing to two of three songs, she performed “I Michael Rowady and up-and-coming New York Triangle Foundation years ago. (Montgomery’s am What I am” first, in her own voice. drag queen Sierra Misst might seem like they title was President, and he later became As she stood in the shade after her have little in common. Yet both are alumni of executive director.) performance, many lined up to have a picture Grosse Pointe South High School and both Beyond his own experience and the work of taken with the hometown drag heroine. Sierra were featured, at different times, on stage at a Equality Michigan, Rowady had some words of beamed, hugged children of all ages and chatted rally following this year’s Grosse Pointe Pride wisdom for the audience he was anticipating: with at least one former teacher. After that, March. Each captivated the crowd in their own “What I would also say is that never lose and while her mother waited, Sierra answered way — but only one of them did the splits. your integrity,” he advised. “The lesson that a few questions. Hosted by Welcoming Everyone Grosse transcends beyond being gay or anything, is As it happens, Sierra Misst was born just Pointe or We GP, the pride march is in its always maintain your self-respect and your about a year ago. Lifelong Grosse Pointe Park third year and drew an impressive crowd of integrity. That is critical.” resident Evan Whittstock studied Music Theatre approximately 2,000 individuals, as estimated At the rally, Rowady told the crowd, “When at Western Michigan University then attended by the organizers. The march began at Grosse I was growing up, there were no out, proud the American Musical and Dramatic Academy Pointe South High School and proceeded young folks. There was darkness, and there in New York City, where he now lives and along Fisher Road and then down Kercheval was fear. And now we see the light: You are performs. Wittstock “dabbled in drag” then Avenue, eventually ending in the parking lot Jeff Hastedt and Michael Rowady, Equality Michigan the light. You represent the light. Think about board members. BTL Photo: Ellen Knoppow decided to create a fully fledged persona. of Maire Elementary School. There, about how far we have come.” Asked whether Evan was out in high school, a dozen nonprofits and local businesses In terms of how far Grosse Pointe has come, “not at all,” was the quick response. including PFLAG, Stand with Trans, American Rowady told BTL, “I think it’s slowly keeping up the necessity of amending the Elliott-Larsen “I was kind of sheltered,” Whittstock said. Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and with the times,” he said, in terms of increased Civil Rights Act. In addition, he added some “Nobody talked about gay people necessarily. I Supportive Counseling Services — a practice diversity in every respect. “I gotta tell you, I encouragement and inspiration for the young did show choir at South for a long time and that recently opened by clinical social worker had a tear in my eye yesterday when I was in people in the crowd. He spoke with Between was me gayve thriving as a high schooler. But it Amanda Be who treats primarily children and Grosse Pointe on a business call, and there were The Lines prior to the event. wasn’t really talked about: ‘The gay community’ teens — had information tables. Face painting, pride flags all over the place. It was beautiful. As a board member of Equality Michigan, or drag queens — God forbid. the group Free Mom Hugs and treats for sale It was an amazing feeling.” Rowady is tasked with representing the “So it was kind of lonely. rounded out the festivities. organization and getting their message across in But to see how far the Grosse In the school parking lot anticipating the an ambassador role, but he felt this opportunity Pointe communities have arrival of the marchers was Sarah Eisenberg, was particularly “special and important,” so come, just in the past couple volunteer coordinator for We GP and one he reached out. Although Rowady said he years since I’ve been gone, of the event organizers. She spoke about the didn’t expect to be asked to speak, he was is really inspiring and kind significance of this march, what the event meant glad to, and called it “an honor.” Having had of surprising,” Whittstock to her personally and to Grosse Pointe at large. limited involvement with his high school since continued. “It’s something I “It’s been so important to me and a lot of graduating, Rowady remarked, “I’ve given a lot never could have imagined people here because it’s really about changing of speeches. But 2,000 people in my own home when I was actually living here. the community culture, about stating town? That’s a big deal.” Rowady spoke about [To] become more of myself, affirmatively and openly that we are a supportive his teenage years. figured out who I really was and inclusive community, that we welcome and “Being gay was unheard of — you just didn’t at the core of it all, and be able celebrate everyone here,” Eisenberg said. “All of know anyone who was gay,” Rowady said, of to come back to where I came our children, all of our neighbors, everyone is his time in high school during the late ‘80s. from and share it with people, part of this community. ... and really combatting He called himself a ‘normal kid’ who got good and have it be celebrated ... some of the negative narratives that are out grades and went on to college and law school. feels really special to me.” there about what Grosse Pointe is about and He said he didn’t think of himself as gay in high And how did Sierra end up what reputation our community has.” school and doesn’t recall any struggle. back in Grosse Pointe, in the The parade boasted a few decorated vehicles, “My parents and my family were and always Sierra Misst.. BTL Photo: Ellen Knoppow parade and then performing on but mostly proud community members — have been supportive — until I came out and stage before a couple thousand whether pride-clad or not — as well as a then it was some rough waters for a couple cheering Grosse Pointe friends number of proud-looking dogs. The clear, sunny years there,” he said. and neighbors? morning was perfect for a ride in a convertible, Rowady cited LGBTQ activist Jeffrey It was very last-minute, according to Sierra. and this march featured a red one with Sierra Montgomery, who founded the Equality Just a couple weeks prior, Evan was joking over Misst sitting on the back wearing a bubble Sierra Misst, 2011 Michigan’s predecessor the Triangle the phone with sister-in-law Sammy about gum pink party dress, smiling and waving to It’s not every Saturday morning that a Foundation, as a role model when Rowady being in the parade. One thing led to another, the crowd. The 2011 graduate who now lives in professional drag queen performs on an was in high school. Montgomery was a Grosse and before she knew it, the event organizers New York City later said it was her homecoming outdoor stage in an elementary school parking Pointe South High School graduate as well purchased a plane ticket and Sierra Misst was queen dream come true. lot in Grosse Pointe. But this is Pride month, (1971). And although Rowady didn’t think of headlining the 2019 Grosse Pointe Pride March. and this was a homecoming of sorts for Sierra himself as gay at the time, he remembers being As the interview concluded, a couple more Misst. Following Rowady’s speech and a fascinated by Montgomery. kids approached the park bench, introduced Michael Rowady, 1990 performance by a high school choir, Sierra “I always looked at him and said, that it one themselves and asked for hugs, which they took the stage. Rowady had to leave early and Rowady kicked off the rally with words about brave SOB,” Rowady recalled. “He’s standing were given warmly. Of the entire experience, only caught part of the show. As it happened, his experience growing up in Grosse Pointe, the out there, alone. There was no group of people. Sierra said, “It’s been a blessing. It’s been a whole the two didn’t have a chance to meet. importance of the work that Equality Michigan That was an amazing thing. And he took a lot lot of fun.” does for the community and remarked about Professionally trained in musical theater and www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 13 SAGE Talks Multigenerational Community Building at 9th Annual Older Adult Summit BTL Publishers Susan Horowitz and Jan Stevenson Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

BY JASON A. MICHAEL to multigenerational organizing. “The world teaches us that we’re n a new location inside the Education supposed to be in spaces with people Building on Wayne State University’s main our own age,” she said. campus, the 9th annual SAGE Metro Detroit “I believe in starting with a level set IOlder Adult Summit drew a crowd of about of what are things that are interesting to 150. Attendees flowed in and out throughout you? What are the things you love and the day as guest speakers and panel discussions where are those things happening? If dealt with a variety of subjects. you love roller skating, go roller skating. Keynoting the summit was Citizen Detroit And if you’re trying to connect with Deputy CEO Misha Stallworth, who spoke on a certain group of people, you’ll find the subject of multigenerational community them there because people go where building. Stallworth, a community organizer their interests are. Cornelius Wilson, second from left, and Angie Perone, right, presented the SAGE Lifetime Achievement Award to BTL who sits on the Detroit School Board, said that “My second thing is a collection of publishers Susan Horowitz and Jan Stevenson. Photo Richard Campbell. “multigenerational” is a very intentional term. values that I think are foundational to “I chose ‘multigenerational’ because it allows building meaningful relationships,” us to speak about how many generations are Stallworth continued. “They are or an event, you have to living across the lifespan right now,” Stallworth empathy, curiosity and humility. We have to identify someone who is said, starting her address. “When we say we approach people with humility in order to truly the member of the group want to connect with youth, are we talking hear their stories. We have to be curious enough to be representative,” about teenagers? Adolescents? Twenty-year- to ask questions to try to really get to the next Stallworth concluded. “If olds? Who are we talking about? Or when we level of things. Then we have to have empathy you are organizing and talk about older adults, are we talking about when we hear from them. I find that especially you’re saying, ‘I want to 80s or 90s? Sixties or 70s? Who are we talking when we’re engaging across age, having those do this multigenerational about? There are different perspectives, different three things at the core of the approach is organizing,’ well do you experiences. There’s different access, different essential because stereotypes about age are have someone from the places you will find groups of people when so pervasive. Whether it’s a stereotype about age group you’re interested you’re trying to organize in that way.” millennials ruining every major industry in in as part of the planning?” Stallworth said she has a three-way approach the world somehow all by killing the diamond industry or whether it’s those type of stereotypes Later in the day or stereotypes that older people don’t know anything about technology. These stereotypes Other speakers are pervasive.” throughout the day Ron Doe, left, received the Volunteer of the year Award from Cornelius Stallworth said her last approach is included Truman Hudson, Wilson. Janet Hunko also received the award but was not present. Photo representation. attorneys Jane Bassett and Richard Campbell “I don’t care if you’re thinking about how Henry Grix, The Rev. Dr. to grow your social circle or if you’re trying to Roland Stringfellow and “It’s your stories that make up the essence figure out how to get somebody to a meeting Jay Kaplan from the ACLU. An afternoon panel of the paper. Thank you for refusing to be discussion on connecting with technology also invisible,” she said, referring to the theme of took place. the SAGE conference itself. Between The Lines publishers Susan Two dedicated volunteers were presented If you are organizing Horowitz and Jan Stevenson were presented with the Volunteer of the Year Award. Ron with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Doe is a member of SAGE Metro Detroit’s and“ you’re saying, ‘I want to “The AIDS crisis taught us that it’s up to us Programing Committee. Meanwhile, Janet do this multigenerational to take care of each other,” said Stevenson when Hunko is on SAGE’s board and is a volunteer accepting the award. “Now it’s up to us again to member of their Training and Education organizing,’ well do you have take care of each other as we grow older. Thank Committee. you SAGE for your work in connecting older “SAGE’s mission is to build awareness and someone from the age group LGBTQ people to each other, to the resources promote change so that LGBT older adults can you’re interested in as part of within our community and within mainstream age with dignity and authenticity,” said SAGE Community organizer Misha Stallworth spoke service agencies.” on multigenerational organizing at the 9th Metro Detroit Executive Director Angie Perone. annual SAGE Metro Detroit Older Adult Summit. the planning? Horowitz thanked the attendees for sharing “It’s really important to keep that mission BTL photo: Jason A. Michael their stories with BTL. moving forward.” ” – Misha Stallworth 14 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com

2019: Campuses Honor LGBTQ Graduates Throughout Michigan

n 1995 the University of Michigan held the celebrations. Between The Lines is proud first-ever Lavender Graduation. Twenty- to recognize LGBTQ graduates from eight four years later, more than 200 colleges and campuses across Michigan who were honored Iuniversities around the country hold similar in ceremonies held this spring.

Lavender Celebration at Eastern Michigan University, held April 10. Photo credit: Desmine Robinson

Lavender Graduation at the University of Michigan, held May 2. Photo credit: Hannah Brauer, Spectrum Center

Lavender Graduation at Ferris State University, held May 8. Photo credit: Bill Bitzinger, LGBTQ+ Resource Center

Lavender Reception at Michigan State University, held April 14. Photo credit: LBGT Resource Center Lavender Graduation at Grand Valley State University, held April 18. Photo credit: Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center

16 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com Lavender Graduation at Western Michigan University, held April 10. Photo credit: Paige K. Design & Illustration

Rainbow Graduation at Wayne State University, held April 12. Photo credit: Wayne State University

Rainbow Graduation at Wayne State University, held April 12. Photo credit: Wayne State University www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 17 Loving Loud, For a Good Queer Cause Photos courtesy of LoveLoud Festival Photos courtesy of LoveLoud Dan Reynolds and Tegan Quin Talk LGBTQ Festival’s Third Year and the Best Kind of Straight White Man

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI pop twin duo Tegan and Sara. room, is standing up for us? a giggle because most people don’t know Last year, Reynolds raised over $1 million Tegan Quin: (Laughs) Honestly, it’s why I’m what the shirts says, but Dan is on national magine Dragons frontman Dan Reynolds’ for LGBTQ charities, including The Trevor involved with LoveLoud, because the first television broadcasting a mission about devotion to LGBTQ issues – chief among Project, GLAAD, HRC, the Tegan and Sara conversation I had with Dan, I was just like, supporting LGBTQ women and girls and them: mitigating queer-youth suicide Foundation, Encircle and GLAAD, among “Oh, this is the bar, this is not just where fighting for economic justice and health and Irates – has only escalated in the years since he others. This year’s one-day event includes a straight, white, cis men should be but where representation for an incredibly marginalized founded the first LoveLoud Festival Powered headlining performance from Kesha, who will all of our allies should be.” And at this point, group of people in society. I think that it’s by AT&T in 2017. Look no further than the perform alongside Reynolds, Tegan and Sara, it’s fair that we should just all care. Here’s the absolutely wonderful, because for the people Billboard Music Awards in May, when Reynolds Daya, Grouplove, K. Flay, Laura Jane Grace, thing: there’s really, really easy ways to show who know what he’s doing it says to them, “I chose to use his brief onstage moment while and more. up and care as an ally. We did it before we care.” And we should care. And I’m so moved accepting the top rock prize with his band During a recent call, Quin and Reynolds started a foundation. We just donate a dollar that he cares. to bring public awareness to the troubling spoke about the festival’s evolution (more from every ticket sold to something that I hate that in 2019 I even have to ask a question prevalence of conversion therapy. LGBTQ artists … and rainbow buses?!), how matters to us. On June 29 at USANA Amphitheatre in Salt Reynolds has set a new bar for straight white I think that Dan is an incredible ally and like this, but Dan, being a straight white male Lake City, the 31-year-old musician will once men, and hoping to get Beyoncé on the bill. he’s the new bar, and when he gets up every ally, do you think you’re able to reach people again put his global rock-star clout to good single time it bewilders and moves me that an out lesbian female artist such as Tegan Tegan, what does it mean to you that a straight use, returning to the stage for the third annual and I’m just like, I can’t believe this! Every may not? LoveLoud Festival with event co-organizer white man, particularly now when the straight time he performs on television in a Tegan Tegan Quin, one half of openly lesbian indie- white man is not the most popular person in the Dan Reynolds: Yeah, I think it would be and Sara Foundation shirt (laughs) I have ridiculous to not recognize the privilege that 18 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com I’ve been given as exactly that: a straight white that happen from community members. man. Our LGBTQ artists are just starting to To see the power and to see the positivity, I come up on the scene and they’ve been there hope a lot of young people watch the stream for a long time. In fact, they probably are and feel good about themselves and see more of a backbone in the arts community themselves represented. I know for myself, than a straight white man but a straight white personally as a young queer person, I did not man is given a stronger voice because of see myself represented. In the ’90s the closest privilege and that’s it. Further marginalized representation I had were the few women are LGBTQ women, especially those of color. who were out, like k.d. lang and Melissa So we have a long way to go, absolutely. Etheridge, who were amazing but they were But sadly it is going to take those who are decades older than me. Representation is privileged to speak up because some people important, and Dan and LoveLoud and all of are only going to be hearing them, and that’s us on the board are trying really hard to find the sad truth and it sucks. But the only way to representation of everyone so LGBTQ people change it is for all hands to be on deck. see themselves and feel good. Having done this now for three years, do you What are some next steps the music industry find you’re reaching the people that you have can take in combating homophobia in the intended to reach? industry? Reynolds: Yeah, I think we’ve reached a small Reynolds: I think affording more margin of the people we want to reach but, opportunities for LGBTQ artists. One of the certainly, we’re starting to get there. A big rad things that Tegan was just telling me part of this year and last year was AT&T live she’s doing right now: They’re finishing their streams the whole concert, so people really, record and it’s all produced and engineered all across the globe, can watch. Because by women, which is super rare. And it’s not this is way more prevalent than just Utah. for lack of women trying; it’s not for lack of Really, there are hundreds of cities that need women producers. It’s just because people LoveLoud desperately. We started in Utah don’t afford them the same opportunities. because the number one reason for death And especially for LGBTQ songwriters, among teenagers there is suicide and LGBTQ they’ve been around for a long time but just youth are seven times more likely to take finally are being recognized. One of my dear their life when they’re not accepted in the friends is Justin Tranter, who now is being home or their community, but that statistic recognized as an incredible songwriter and is really prevalent all over the place and Utah yet way before he was songwriting for his own just happened to be a place that I grew up in, band, Semi Precious Weapons, he just wasn’t and I understood the community to some afforded the same popularity because he was regard, especially the religious community asked to be less queer by so many people that exists there. So, this has been kind of a time after time. I can just say that absolutely learning process for the last three years and affording more opportunities for our LGBTQ we absolutely want to grow and expand and community would be a great start. move to other places and raise more money and put on these celebratory events in as Tegan, do you feel like we have to stifle our many places as we can. queerness… you, not we... ha, I’m not in the music industry. But do you feel you or other Anybody can watch the livestream. Is there LGBTQ artists have to stifle their sexuality to get anyone specifically that you think should tune a leg up in the music business? in? Quin: No, actually, I think you should say Quin: What was cool about when I got “we.” I think as queer people, of course we involved with LoveLoud was to hear Dan and have to stifle who we are no matter where we the whole team who’ve been involved since work. My experience is not singular; it’s not the beginning talk about their dreams for mine, it’s ours. We all feel it. I know tons of what LoveLoud will become, and obviously women in the music business who are not out AT&T is allowing them to live that dream. at work, which is wild to me. But the music I think the people who need to watch the business is like every business: men are at the stream are the same people who need to top. And generally, it’s straight men, and if come to the show, which is just all of the they’re gay men that doesn’t necessarily fare community that surrounds LGBTQ people; any better for us as women (laughs). Yeah, whether you are completely understanding, I think we do have to stifle a part of who or OK with it or not, it’s a great place to start we are, our personhood, and I think Dan’s that conversation. right (about) providing more opportunities I think Dan draws really kind of beautiful for LGBTQ women. Clearly, obviously, pictures for every kid who’s watching the all LGBTQ people need that space but for livestream on their laptop, maybe alone at women specifically in the industry that would home, who haven’t had that conversation yet, be incredible. But it’s a double-edged sword. or maybe they’re watching with their family. You don’t just want to be known as a queer There’s so many moving moments. It’s not producer or a queer songwriter. And so we all just the music – in fact, it’s what happens face this sort of question of, “How much do in between the music: the speeches and the speakers and some of the other big moments See Loving Loud, continued on p. 20 www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 19 ® Loving Loud Continued from p. 19

we make that a part of who we are?” I think what’s really gonna have to happen is that straight men and men with huge recording budgets and men with power are gonna have to stop making their records with 20 men and start using women – and women at the top. And I think that’s when the industry will really change. All the women we just worked with are all under the age of 30 and that’s a good sign to me. I think Dan’s right: those rooms are getting more diverse and they’re getting more opportunities, but I think what the industry really needs to do is just address the problem more opportunities, affording them a went with some of my dear friends last with women still. It’s a desert out there stage in front of tens of thousands of year and they were just like, “I needed for women, so of course it’s hard for people. Between our lineup, between this as a young person, desperately.” It LGBTQ people. our speakers, it’s a very LGBTQ-focused just makes you really feel so seen when lineup and I think on top of that it’s all you’re there. More LGBTQ artists are on this year’s bill hands on deck, so we also have some If you could pick a dream artist or speaker than during the festival’s first and second really great mainstream artists who are to appear at the festival, who would it be? year. Can you talk about how queer allies. Quin: For me, personally, I feel like I inclusion in the festival has changed, why What’s the future of LoveLoud? that has changed and if there was any walk a fine line because I think it would pressure to be more LGBTQ-inclusive? Reynolds: That it’s everywhere. I want be cool if Madonna came, if Pink did it to be such a household name that it it; I think it could be an amazing thing Reynolds: The answer is: yes, yes and becomes boring so that this becomes if Katy Perry came and did it. I think yes (laughs). As far as the artists and destigmatized so people can stop having women like that who have been speakers: this has been a learning talking about it as an issue. That’s the incredible allies to the community project for me. I knew in the beginning main goal at the end of the day: for this would be so powerful. Beyoncé and that my heart was in this and it was in to be destigmatized so that LGBTQ Jay-Z, when they got their GLAAD it because it affected people around me. kids can just be kids and that’s it. I award, I was like, “They should come It was my friends growing up who were think that’s the goal, and to do that we to LoveLoud!” They would be amazing. Mormon and queer and watching the take it into every city and every home. But I think Dan just pointed out struggles that they had with that and I want everyone talking about this, I something really important, which is the acceptance they weren’t receiving at want conservative-religious parents that often when LGBTQ events happen home, and then meeting my wife who’s a to sit down and have to talk about this our allies get the stage and it’s often fierce activist (who was) living with her with their kids because the kids say, “I the LGBTQ artists who don’t get asked two best friends who are LGBTQ and all want to go to this concert,” and they say, to play. And so, I don’t know. There’s a of them dressing up in wedding dresses “What is it? What does that mean?” and fucking amazing crop of young LGBTQ and wanting to go handcuff themselves have the conversation and that starts the people: I’d love to have King Princess, to the Federal Building during Prop 8. destigmatization process. I’d love to have Shura, I’d love to have So I married a woman who also ignited Janelle Monae. Would either of you be interested in what was already there for me and who Reynolds: I’d love to have Frank Ocean. is also the roaring fire behind LoveLoud. taking LoveLoud on the road? I’m just putting these names out just to So every straight white man needs to Reynolds: Yeah. get the offer out there. I’d love to have marry your wife. Quin: Yeah, I’ve heard some pretty Lizzo. There’s a lot of artists, both queer awesome ideas thrown around at some and not. And like I said, I think it’s all Reynolds: Yes. But hell no. I got there of our board meetings and I think it hands on deck. We need everyone, first! (Laughs) My long answer is could be really cool to see LoveLoud in because this is a global issue. that I came into this as, you’re right, a a lot of other places. Again, I’ve said it Quin: Every year we’re just gonna privileged straight white man saying, so many times, but this isn’t just a Utah keep adding to the list, and Dan’s quite “Hey, let me help,” and the only thing I issue, so I think there’s lots of potential. ambitious about what he wants to do knew to help with was my band, Imagine There’s just nothing like it. Just never and I’m along for the ride. Dragons; it has a big platform and a big had that feeling. There’s just literally Reynolds: And rainbow tour buses following and a lot of that following is never been another thing like this – the rolling across the U.S.! families, which is exactly who we wanted closest is, of course, celebrations around Quin: Rainbow tour buses! I’m into it. to affect. We wanted this dinner-table Pride every year in major cities, but this conversation to destigmatize. So long is different because it’s everyone coming As editor of Q Syndicate, the international story short: It started with the band, it together for a very, very specific reason LGBTQ wire service, Chris Azzopardi has launched off the shoulders of the band, and rallying around our youth. But it interviewed a multitude of superstars, and now we’re moving it toward where touches everybody because it really including Cher, Meryl Streep, Mariah it should be, which is primarily focused connects with the families, but it also Carey and Beyoncé. Reach him via Twitter on LGBTQ artists, affording them connects with older LGBTQ people. I @chrisazzopardi. 20 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 21 Brian Justin Crum’s Latest “ I’m a flamboyant gay man and I Offering is the Single ‘I & U’ celebrate that in myself every day.” BY JASON A. MICHAEL of a choice,” said Crum. “Same goes with brave enough to dress my outsides the ‘Champions.’ They were very opinionated way I have always felt on the inside. I’m ou probably remember Brian about what I would sing.” a flamboyant gay man and I celebrate Justin Crum from Season 11 of But don’t think that Crum harbors that in myself every day. Pride Month NBC’s hit reality competition any resent toward the show. Quite the was the perfect time for me to deliver Y“America’s Got Talent.” He finished opposite is true. that message to the world.” in fourth place, and videos of his “It has totally changed my life,” he said. Crum is also playing Pride festivals performances blew up YouTube, “All of these shows are the same in that across the country this summer, especially when he returned earlier what happens next is up to you. It’s all something he said he particularly enjoys. this year for “America’s Got Talent: The about the follow-through and ‘feeding “[They have] great energy and [are] Champions.” His performance of Elton the beast.’” extremely emotional,” said Crum. “There John’s “Your Song” took him to the finals Crum’s latest offering is the single “I is no greater feeling than having young and won standing ovations and raves & U.” Produced by Michel "Lindgren" queer kids showing you love. It’s many of from the judges. And Crum, he admitted Schulz, the song was written by Lindgren their first Prides. I want to make it extra in an interview with Between The Lines, and his wife singer Melanie Fontana. special for them.” was not surprised. “I connected to the song so deeply When not playing Prides or other gigs, “I had sung that song so many times because it speaks so purely to the human Crum is in the studio working on more and felt so comfortable with it,” he said. experience,” Crum said. “Finally getting music. “It was fun to play with it and make it out of a toxic relationship and wondering “I’m working hard on getting an album my own. Definitely a favorite of mine.” why you still want that person.” together,” he said. “I’m really excited to Still, Crum said he wasn’t always able Crum said there’s significance to him take people on a journey.” to sing his favorites on the show. releasing the song during Pride Month. Crum just released the video to “I & “I really love my first two song choices “The video for ‘I & U’ is the first time U” and the song is now available on most but full disclosure, once we got into the I have been able to really go deep into major music platforms. live shows I didn’t feel like I had much myself,” he said. “I finally feel strong and

22 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 23 The Frivolist 5 Reasons Sitting at the Bar Is the Best Way to Dine BY MIKEY ROX I can’t confirm that bartenders are hired switch it up and be a based on their appearance related to the type bit more traditional at ooths may be the most popular seating of clients the establishment serves, but when a cozy table. What we option at restaurants, but dining at the have you ever been to a gay or gay-friendly both love about bar bar has more benefits than you may bar or restaurant where the hired guns didn’t seating is that we can Brealize. Here are five. have a pair of their own to gawk at? Thus, be closer than if we if you enjoy sucking on a little eye candy – were seated opposite proverbially speaking – while satisfying your another. We like to 1. You’ll receive faster service nutritional cravings, belly up. canoodle, put our arms Wait staff that serve the main dining floor around each other’s have several to many tables each, and it’s shoulders, and rest our sometimes difficult to receive the attention 3. Food and drinks are often cheaper hands on each other’s you need when their hands are literally I practice what I preach in my other life as thighs. The seemingly full throughout your experience at that a personal finance expert, and I’m always inconsequential restaurant. That’s not to say that the bar looking for deals and discounts when I dine decision on where doesn’t get busy too – it does – but at least out. The best way to score those savings is to sit when we dine people make connections. I’ve met friends, there you have a dedicated bartender or more usually at happy hour, which requires bar out helps us maintain a certain closeness business contacts, one-night stands and long- who is constantly scanning the length to see seating to qualify for limited-time food and – figuratively and literally – which is very term lovers while noshing on half-price apps who needs what. Lock eyes or raise a finger drinks specials. Even outside of happy hour, important to our relationship. Spending and dollar-off drafts at the bar, connections I and you’re good to go. bar-only menus typically features lesser- an hour or two at the bar is a simple way to would have denied myself dining in another The bar also is a better option if you’re in priced items than the regular menu. Making accomplish that. location. a hurry. You usually receive your food and a meal out of a couple of those dishes will save drinks much faster compared to sitting at you cash over buying a full-fledged entrée. a full-service table or booth, which can be 5. You’ll meet new people and make new friends Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and helpful if you need to dine and dash – after LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has been you’ve paid for everything (plus tip!), of 4. You can be more affectionate and My boyfriend was a server at a restaurant romantic published in more than 100 outlets across the course. when I met him while dining at the bar with world. He spends his time writing from the beach My boyfriend and I almost exclusively sit at a couple buddies, so, yeah, I’m a bit biased with his dog Jaxon. Connect with Mikey on the bar when we dine out, save for a couple on its benefits, but you can’t deny that in Instagram @mikeyrox. 2. Eye candy is up close and personal special occasions a year where we like to a restaurant setting the bar is where social

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26 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com Slipstream Presents ‘Gross Indecency’ Through June 30

BY BTL STAFF The play makes it clear that the ‘gross oises Kaufman, revered for indecency’ of the title happened to Wilde bringing audiences shows like “The rather than by him Importance of Being Earnest” and M“The Picture of Dorian Gray,” has another work that delves into the life of famed LGBTQ poet and playwright Oscar Wilde: “Gross Indecency: an artist, in all his debonair nonchalance. And The Three Trials of Oscar Wilde.” Now playing though society has come a long way since the at Ferndale’s Slipstream Theatre Initiative, the days of punishing homosexuality with prison, show will run through June 30. we’re never as far along as we thought. We are “Wilde’s tumultuous relationship with the reminded to keep our minds and hearts open to young ‘Bosie’ Douglas sparked speculation and all people, perhaps more now than ever before,” gossip about the flamboyant playwright. But organizers wrote. “Join Slipstream this June, to it was the young man’s father, the Marquess of witness the wit, the passion and the tragedy of Quensberry, who finally brought about Wilde’s the man who believed in the pursuit of beauty, downfall,” wrote event organizers. “Filled with at all costs.” rumor, whispers and deceit, the play showcases Playing Wilde is Slipstream founding company the three growingly disastrous trials of Oscar member Richard Payton, company Technical Wilde – illuminating his journey to prison and Director Jackson Abohasira plays Lord Alfred eventual death. The play makes it clear that the “Bosie” Douglas and Patrick O’Lear plays the ‘gross indecency’ of the title happened to Wilde Marquess of Queensberry. rather than by him, but it also shows us, with Learn more online at slipstreamti.com. brutal honesty, how his arrogance and belief that he was untouchable sealed his fate.” Shows will run Fridays and Saturdays at 8 This show is an intentional seasonal pick, too, p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 and as it is Slipstream’s way of celebrating 50 years available via slipstreamti.com or by emailing since the Stonewall Riots. [email protected]. Slipstream “Slipstream is reflecting on those that paved Theatre Initiative is located at 460 Hilton in the way. Oscar Wilde was the personification of Ferndale.

www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 27 Motor City Bears Meet and Greet Monthly Meeting at Affirmations

stablished in 1994, Motor City Bears is a Detroit-based social and fundraising group for gay male bears and their Eadmirers. The group hosts regular monthly meet and greet gatherings at Affirmations LGBTQ community center in Ferndale and Saturday, July 20, they hold the next event. Held from 5 to 8 p.m., attendees are encouraged to chat with the Bears and to learn more about the group. “The Bear Greet begins in the community room. We meet with members, friends and Those who attend are invited to dinner anyone that wants to stop by. Guests and afterward. All members, as well as those visitors are always welcome,” said event interested in joining the group and their organizers. “Then at 6 p.m., right after the guests, are welcome to attend the dinner, Bear Greet our general meeting takes place. too.Find out more about the Motor City This includes discussions of past and upcoming Bears online via motorcitybears.wixsite. activities and other club business. If you want com or by visiting the group’s Facebook page. to know if we’re the club for you, come check Affirmations is located at 290 W 9 Mile Road us out. The meeting usually lasts about an in Ferndale. hour or so.”

Affirmations Hosts Kings & Queens for a Day

he Affirmations LGBTQ center will host royalty on Saturday, July 13, in a youth- focused “gender-bending” drag event. Lasting from noon to 6 p.m., in collaboration with Slay Inc. — a Detroit-based LGBTQ events company — attendees will be helped Tinto drag as they learn more about the art form. “Join us on Saturday, July 13 for half a day of drag, food and fun! LGBTQ+ Youth, ages 13- 18 and their family’s are welcome to join us free of charge as we explore gender and drag with local performers,” wrote event organizers. “Each child will have professional makeup and hair stylists to help put some fabulous looks together. The event concludes with a high-energy runway show where our newest kings and queens can strut their stuff.” This event is sponsored by ROUGE MakeUp and Nail Studio, Randolph’s Salon and Mike and Judy Taylor.

With only 20 slots available, interested participants are encouraged to sign up soon at weslayinc. com or by calling Kyle Taylor at 248-398-7105 ext. 224. Affirmations is located at 290 W. 9 Mile Road in Ferndale. For more information about the event visit the Affirmations Facebook page.

28 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 29 The Music of Queen Featuring the DSO July 14 When Queen shot to fame in the ‘70s the band’s bridging of rock and classical music shook the music industry in an unforgettable way. Now, heading to the Meadowbrook Ampitheatre on Oakland University’s Campus, audiences can hear the music of queen featuring the Detroit Symphony Orchestra to relive some of the band’s classics. Tickets start at $29.50. Find out more online at 313presents.com. OUTINGS stmarysinthehills.org. Wednesday, July 3 Saturday, June 29 month, unlimited bowling, shoe rental, facilitator Kim Tooley, 734-747-4363. St. Affirmations Senior Koffee Clatch! private room, private bar area, drink Stephens Episcopal Church, 2803 1st LGBT Community Chat 11 a.m. 2 p.m. A discussion and networking Saturday LGBT Chat is an on going specials, billiard room, 250 foot video Street,Wyandotte. 734-747-4363 http:// group for people 45 and older. Various wall. Come as you are! Thunderbowl standwithtrans.org. social discussion group meets every discussion topics, social outings, and week to discuss issues LGBT people Arena, 4200 Allen Road,Allen Park. 313- potlucks are held throughout the year. 928-4688. thunderbowl.org. Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups face. Java Hut Ferndale Michigan, 165 Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, – Adrian-Lenawee County 6:30 p.m. For W 9 mile,Ferndale. 248-632-8274. Ferndale. 248-398-7105. goaffirmations. Trans Youth Support Group information, [email protected]. org. Sunday, July 7 contact facilitator Socorro Sevilla, MSW: LGBT Social Meet Up 6:30 p.m. Lgbt Stand with Trans Wyandotte Support [email protected]. Hilltop social meet up group is a group for all Thursday, July 4 Group for Trans Youth and Parents Counseling, 115 W. Maumee Street,Adrian. lgbt people who want to meet have light of Trans Individuals Free. For Parent 313-909-5408. standwithtrans.org. Pride Night at Thunderbowl! 8 p.m. hilltopcounseling.org. hearted discussions and social activities Meet & Greet First Thursday of every Support Group information, contact some activities, all welcomed, we are on going every ongoing Hazel Park Community Center, 620 West Woodward Heights, Hazel Park. 248-632-8274. [email protected]. Monday, July 1 LGBT Game Night 7 p.m. LGBT Game Night is an opportunity for all LGBT Overcoming and Preventing people and allies to come play a board game, drink coffee and socialize with other LGBT individuals. Java Hut, 165 Sexual Abuse in Family Systems There are hundreds of businesses that W NIne Mile, Ferndale. 248-632-8274. [email protected]. The Center for Relationships and Sexual Health advertise in BTL and welcome everyone. will examine child sexual abuse in family systems Invest in equality and work with Tuesday, July 2 Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups and the various impacts it can have on one’s life businesses that support Michigan’s LGBTQ – Lake Orion / Oakland County 7 p.m. as well as avenues for treatment and overcoming and preventing further abuse. Find community! FREE and OPEN to the community. For parents of transgender kids. St. Mary’s out more about the event online at crsh.com. In The Hills Episcopal Church, 2512 Joslyn Court,Lake Orion. 248-391-0663.

30 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com Detroit Trans-Fusion July 17-21 This brand-new event will be held at the Trumbull and Porter Hotel in Detroit and is called Detroit Trans-Fusion. This event will include four days of summer with a schedule of dinner cruises, party buses, workshops and more. Find out more about the event online at eventbrite.com.

Monday, July 8 broadwayindetroit.com/anastasia. Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups MUSIC & MORE Detroit Repertory Theatre Presents – Macomb County 7:30 p.m. Macomb Grace Jones July 1, 7 p.m. The legendary “Williston” Three energy reps travel Teen/Youth Support Group: All youth Grace Jones will come to the Masonic to Willston, ND to get mineral rights are welcome to attend this FREE group. Temple on July 1. Masonic Temple to the last big piece of undeveloped Come and meet other trans* youth and Theatre, 500 Temple St., Detroit. land. A scintillating exploration of how teens and support each other through themasonic.com. business corrupts people and the fine your journeys. Dakota High School, 21051 line between commerce and conscience. 21 Mile Road,Macomb. 586-723-2700. Detroit Repertory Theatre, 13103 hippewavalleyschools.org. Woodrow Wilson,Detroit. 313-868-1347. detroitreptheatre.com/williston. Wednesday, July 10 THEATER Stand with Trans Youth Support Group Anastasia June 17, 7:30 p.m. Anastasia, – Flint – Genessee 7:30 p.m. Free to the new Broadway musical, comes to all. Facilitator Sara Griffin, MA,LPC is the Fisher Theatre. Fisher Theatre, 3011 a psychotherapist and a parent of a W. Grand Blvd., Detroit. 313-872-1000. transgender son, [email protected]. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Flint, 2474 S. Ballenger Hwy,Flint. 810- 232-4023. uuflint.org. standwithtrans.org. Thursday, July 11 Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups – Farmington Hills – Oakland County 8 p.m. All youth are welcome to attend this free group. Oakland United Methodist Church, 30450 Farmington Road, Farmington. 248-626-3620. oaklandumc. org. standwithtrans.org. Toastmasters International SpeakOUT! LGBTQ Meeting 8 p.m. Professional & personal communication skills development. With better communications skills, you’ll better your leadership style as well as your relationships. Jim Toy Community Center, 319 Braun Court,Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. speakout. toastmastersclubs.org. Wednesday, July 17 Stand with Trans Support Groups – Livonia – Wayne County 7:30 p.m. Free to all. Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 34567 7 Mile Road,Livonia. standwithtrans.org. Stand with Trans Support Groups – Ann Arbor – Washtenaw 7:30 p.m. Trans Support Group. Journey of Faith Christian Church, 1900 Manchester Road,Ann Arbor. standwithtrans.org.

Find puzzle on page 33 www.PrideSource.com June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 | BTL 31 Grace Jones Returns to Detroit for First Time in 18 years With Masonic Temple Show

BY JASON A. MICHAEL such movies as “Conan the Destroyer,” “A View to a Kill,” “Boomerang” and more. ull up to the bumper, baby, drive on in In 2015, Jones released her autobiography, between Little Caesars Arena and the “I’ll Never Write My Memoirs,” and three years Temple Bar and head on inside the later she was the subject of the documentary PMasonic Temple on Monday, July 1, for what “Grace Jones: Bloodlight and Bami,” directed is sure to be a memorable musical experience. by Sophie Fiennes. Well, musical, yes. But Grace Jones is so much Known for a sometimes gender-bending more than a songstress. She is a performance style and the hard edges of a sculpted body that artist, a supermodel, a fashion icon, a muse sometimes alludes to a masculine silhouette, to the late, great Andy Warhol, a Studio 54 Jones spoke to W Magazine while promoting princess and just the type of bold black beauty the documentary about her thoughts on gender that commoners look to in awe. identity. Grace Jones was born in Jamaica but “I think we’re all oysters to begin with and emigrated with her family to the States when the whole gender thing is like some people have she was 13. The family initially settled in two genders,” she said. “I believe that you can Syracuse, New York, but it would be in the have your male and female and that if you’re Big Apple where Jones would get her modeling born as a male you can have more female. I start. Soon enough, she was appearing on the believe God made us in all kinds of ways. What covers of Vogue and Elle. She walked the comes out, comes out. runways, both in NYC and Paris, for designers “I really feel very male sometimes,” Jones such as Yves Saint Laurent and Kenzo. continued. “I act it as well. I do act it, and I’m Jones segued into singing in 1975, when she not sure if has to do with I was actually born released the single “I Need A Man.” The single with more male in a female body. I embrace would only make it as far as No. 83 on the pop both of them. I remember someone I was with charts, but it became a disco smash going all said to my mom, ‘I’ve married a man.’ Men the way to No. 1 on the dance charts. It also expect women to be subservient and do as became an anthem for gay men everywhere. they say. But I’m a Jamaican woman. Jamaican “La Vie en rose,” “Nipple to the Bottle,” “Slave women are just different.” to the Rhythm” and other hits followed. She is perhaps best known for 1981’s “Pull Up to Grace Jones first Detroit show in nearly two the Bumper.” The song has been re-released decades takes place Monday, July 1st, at the twice by Jones herself and covered by artists Masonic Temple Theatre. Tickets range from such as Patra. $39 to $250 and are available from asx.com. Jones made her mark in film with roles in 32 BTL | June 27, 2019 - July 10, 2019 www.PrideSource.com 41 Fag ___ (women with gay friends) e.g. 42 Cheese in red 12 Arizona river 43 It may get a licking 13 Force that causes you to go 44 Charles, who could make you down a man 21 He took a bow 45 Type of aircraft engine 25 Time that goes either way 47 It is butt a toy 27 Wild pig 49 Cornmeal breads 28 Deep throat problem 51 Nap with Frida? 30 “Cunt” author Muscio 56 Liszt of piano pieces 31 Give some lip 58 Subject of 20-Across 32 Raspberry that isn’t a fruit 61 Having nice stems 33 Alan of “M*A*S*H” 62 Cloverleaf part 34 Region of Vivien’s country 63 “A Streetcar Named Desire” 35 Dictator that homophobe Trump director Kazan nicknamed with 20-Across 64 Caligula’s year 37 Member 65 Folk history 40 Package carrier 66 Permission request 44 Opposed to, to Gomer 67 Carolyn who wrote about a 46 Pepsin, e.g. Nancy 48 Billie Jean won this often 68 Marsh of “South Park” 50 Acts like a bear 69 Very in Vichy 52 Spit out 53 Like rays caught at Sitges You Bet Your Sweet Astronaut QPuzzle Down 54 “To ___ own self be true” 22 It 1 They serve up whoppers (“Hamlet”) Across dangles on a private 2 In a dominant position 55 Lover of Henry and June 1 Chops off, like at a circumcision 23 Half of a pair of balls 3 Swingers’ place? 56 Antiaircraft fire 5 “Trick” director Jim 24 Bisected 4 Venom carrier 57 Actor Auberjonois 9 Being an active breeder, in slang 26 Symbols of queens 5 Put in shackles 59 Pirates’ take 14 Part of, as a plot 29 Egyptian king of the dead 6 Cukor’s rib donor 60 Japanese attack word 15 Warhol pal ___ Sedgwick 32 Foursome at a card game 7 Old Italian coin 16 Escorted from the door 36 Sgt. Snorkel’s pet 8 TÈa of “Fun with Dick and Jane” 17 Drag queen’s leg scraper 38 Gershon of “Bound” 9 Makes pigtails, maybe 18 Starch source 39 For most students 10 58-Across before he changed 19 Able to bend over 40 Egerton, who plays the title role his name Find solution on page 35 and 20 Biopic/musical fantasy of 2019 in 20-Across 11 Opinion piece in “The Advocate,” at www.pridesource.com

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