Truro Mayor: Passing the Flag to the County

By Charles Thompson although he encouraged me to ask meeting with the Mayor. Sharon simple request to the town again next year and said that if we Farrell, a Truro resident, felt so of Truro to fly the Pride got our application in earlier we much outrage about the issue that Aflag during Pride of Pictou could have a public discussion on she formed a Facebook page to vent County turned into national news the topic at a Council meeting. her frustration. The Facebook page this past week. I met with Mayor I then met with a reporter quickly took off and, at the time Bill Mills and heard about his being from the Truro Daily News, I am writing this, has over 2100 sworn in on the Bible and how as a and later it occurred to me that members. Christian man he did not feel it was many of us involved in Truro In one quote to the media, something he should support. He said Pride actually live in Colchester Mayor Bill Mills said that if we al- Council voted 6-1 against having the County, not Truro itself, so I lowed a gay flag, what if someone flag put up; the lone vote of support contacted Mike Smith, the mayor asked to raise a flag in support of came from Diane Bennett-Cook, whose offices are just down the pedophiles, which added fuel to the Councilor for Ward 1 in Truro. road from the Town of Truro fire and made it clear that Mayor I challenged Mayor Mills’ belief offices. Mayor Smith was very Mills has no respect for the GLBT that the Bible is very clear about ho- supportive and did not hesitate to community. On Monday Truro mosexuality. He was firm in his con- agree to fly the Pride Flag. held what was, to my knowledge, viction; at one point he even asked On Friday, August 3, the front the first ever Pride Event in town, Charles Thompson and Mayor Mike Smith in front of the Municipality of me if I had accepted Jesus Christ page of the Truro Daily News a rally in Victoria Park with more the County of Colchester building in Truro getting ready to raise the pride as my personal Saviour. In the end had a picture of me and the Pride than 100 people. Speakers included flag. he was not willing to reconsider, Flag along with the story of my myself, Sharon Farrell, Diane Ben- Cont’d to Truro p. 3 Annapolis Valley Health & Youth

his fall, Public Health Serv- Youth who have access to youth- with input form youth that reflect the model. Ways of providing For more information on this ices, through the Annapolis specific services are more likely to the following components: Clinical transportation for youth if the project please contact the Youth Valley Health Authority use primary care services. Youth Services; Health Counseling and center is not located in a school is Health Centre Project Manager, T something that will be examined. Dawn Archambault at (902) 542- and in partnership with Addic- living in poverty, females, LGBT- Support; Referrals to other services; tion & Mental Health Services If the youth health center is in a 6329, or email darchambault@avdha. and the Annapolis School Board, school, access for youth that are nshealth.ca. is launching the Youth Health Youth from various ethnic, cultural homeless, out-of-school youth, Center Project. The two goals groups, the disabled, all sexual and permission for students to for this year-long project are: visit the center during the day 1) The development of a multi- orientations, gender identities and are all issues that will be taken Halifax Pride year implementation plan for the into account. creation of new youth health cent- various other diverse groups will have According to Carol MacKin- Annual General ers located in various school and non, the Director of Public Meeting community settings through out a voice and their specific needs will be Health for the Annapolis Valley, the district and, incorporated into the model ultimately “All aspects of diversity will be 2) To help the existing youth considered and incorporated into September 13 health centers build on what is giving them a place of belonging. the model. Youth from various 2007 working well, create a plan to fill ethnic and cultural groups, the any identified gaps and help them TIQ and at-risk youth benefit Health Education; Health Promo- disabled, all sexual orientations, comply with the NS Standards for particularly from youth-targeted tion, and Community Capacity gender identities and various 7:00 pm Youth Health Centres (for more services. Building other diverse groups will have a information on the standards visit The model for youth health Youth will be key participants voice, and their specific needs will Holiday Inn www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/). centers in Annapolis Valley will and actively engaged in all aspects of be incorporated into the model Research demonstrates that include a comprehensive range of this process, including the incorpo- ultimately giving them a place of Select improved access to health care supports and services based on the ration of fun recreational activities belonging. Youth health centers is linked to a reduction in risky NS Standards for Youth Health into the youth center model. in the valley will be open, confi- Go to halifaxpride.com behaviors, improved health sta- Centers document. There will be Accessibility will be a key prin- dential and safe environments for for more details tus, and is an indicator of equity. a core group of services included ciple considered when developing all youth.” In This Issue Features & News Columns Annapolis Valley Health & Youth 1 • BLT Womyn Camping! 5 • Come Out 2 the Grawood 3 • Fire Impacts Queer Busi- Chef’s Corner 13 • Classifieds 18 • Dawn’s Early Light 7 • nesses 5 • Greater Moncton Pride Week 2007 4 • Halifax Pride Day Synagogue 7 • Halifax Pride Re-Vamp 6 • Halifax Events Calendar 15-17 • Groups And Services 14 • Kibitz Pride Week Wrap Up4 • ISCANS News 5 • MAC Leather IX Competition 9 • Newfoundland GUYZ Project 4 • Pictou And Bitch 6 • Letters / Opinion 19 • The Nature Of Queer County Celebrates Pride 9 • Truro Mayor: Passing the Flag to the County 1, 2 • Wayves Distribution Points Competi- 8 tion 5 • Your Halifax Pride ‘07 Scrapbook 10-11 • 2 September 2007 Wayves Atlantic News Truro Flag Raising and Rally

Supporters watching the raising of the Pride Flag in front of the Charles Thompson speaking at Pride rally, Victoria park Municipality of the County of Colchester building in Truro. Truro August 06, 2007

Brandi and Charley Cameron signing the Pride Flag to be taken to Mayor Bill Mills at the rally

Halifax Pride Week

In this issue we feature the Halifax Pride Week wrap up. See pages 4 and 6 for related articles and our special feature centre spread: Halifax Pride Week Scrapbook for pictures. (pages 10-11)

Special Thanks to our Local Sponsors: Wayves September 2007 3 Come Out 2 the Grawood On Friday, October 12, 2007, Similar in format to last year’s of which benefits the Nova Scotia DalOUT will celebrate National highly successful event, “Come AIDS Coalition. Coming Out Day as they host their Out at the Grawood,” the night DalOUT, the LGBTQ society Important second annual “Come Out 2 the will feature a drag show, music by at Dalhousie University, is open WAYVES Dates! Grawood” night at the Grawood a live DJ, audience games and some to all members of the community. Issue Content Deadlines: Bar and Lounge in the Dalhousie fantastic prizes. It is a guaranteed Everyone is always welcome. For Sep 7, Oct 5, Nov 2, Dec 7 (the first Friday Student Union Building (6136 good time, so be sure to bring your more information, visit or e-mail of each month) University Ave). friends. The cover charge is $3, $1 [email protected]. Send your news, ideas, comments, criticisms, columns, cartoons and more to [email protected] any time! Production Meetings (Halifax): Cont’d from Truro p. 1 signed that we are going to deliver by refusing our request to fly the ing a local PFLAG group so, even Sep 10, Tuesday Oct 9, Nov 5, Dec 10 to the Mayor and Town Council, Pride Flag: if Council agreed we if the decision is not reversed, we Help decide what goes in the next issue, 7:30 nett-Cook, Mayor Mike Smith, along with a petition asking Town would have been lucky to get a now have the support and determi- PM, CEF, 5443 Rainnie (above Century Ramona Westgate from Pride of Council to reconsider. writeup in the Truro Daily News, nation to make Truro a welcoming Computers), all welcome! Pictou County, Andy Hewlett The next morning a small group whereas we continue to receive re- place for all members of the GLBT Layout Parties (Halifax): from the Halifax Pride Committee, of supporters gathered in the rain quests from media outlets. A story community. Sep 16, Oct 14, Nov 11, Dec 16 Help build the paper – no special skills Sue Andrews of BLT-Womyn of in front of the offices of the Munici- in the Truro Daily News states required, just enthusiasm, and helping even Halifax, Shawn Adams from the pality of the County of Colchester that the town is getting e-mails and once or for a few hours helps a LOT! 9:30 Centre of Hope in Halifax, Jim with Mayor Mike Smith to raise phone calls from people planning Our Cover AM, CEF, 5443 Rainnie (above Century Harpell a former Provincial on vacationing or at least stopping Charles Thompson and Mayor Computers), all welcome! NDP candidate and local at one point he even off in Truro who are now refusing Mike Smith in front of the On The Stands and In The Mail: business owner, Denise to do so because of the refusal to fly Municipality of the County of Oct 26, Nov 23, Dec 21 Holliday representing the asked me if I had the flag and the Mayor’s comments. Colchester transgendered community, We are also looking at filing a Hu- Cover art, as always, by and Georgina Foster of accepted Jesus Christ as man Rights complaint with the Cam MacLeod Truro Pride. my personal Saviour Nova Scotia Human Rights Com- CBC, CTV and Global mission about this incident; similar News were all there, as was CBC the Pride Flag. It was great to see cases have been won against towns Radio, both English and French, the flag flying over Truro after in Ontario and British Columbia. the Chronicle Herald, and Truro all of this, and only a few blocks Truro Pride is moving forward wayves Daily News. the Globe and Mail from where it started at the town with plans for a dance on Septem- did not make it to the rally but of Truro offices. ber 22, 2007 at the Truro Lions’ wayves exists to inform Atlantic Canadian lesbians, gay men, contacted us shortly after. There In a way Mayor Bill Mills did Club. A new youth group is being bisexuals and transgender people of activities in their communities, was a Pride flag that everyone the gay community a great service formed and there is talk about start- to promote those activities and to support their aims and objectives.

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Andrea Claire Miller Hugo Dann Ralph Higgins Following the logic that if you Bill McKinnon Jim Bain Randall Perry We’re replacing it with changes have the paper in your hand, you to our distribution network. If Calandra Smith Jim McMillan Raymond Taavel don’t need to know where to get you’d like to tell your friends Cam MacLeod Kim Fowlow Sarah Stefanko it, we’re dropping the full text of from away where to get Wayves, Daniel MacKay Norval Collins Vance Maxwell the Where To Get Wayves column. see http://www.wayves.ca. Gerrit Volkmann Rachel Tingley Will Murray Your Name Here! 4 September 2007 Wayves Halifax Pride Re-Vamp By Hugo Dann the films; the high art and the low, needs to think about becoming a its potential, we need to solidify all of you who care about Pride, It’s probably safe to say that once low camp; the whole sequined year-round organization, with the our organization so it’s not hav- even if only a little bit! Please have you’ve been a Co-Chair of the mix of the sordid and sublime same kind of staff and financial ing to reinvent itself from year to a look at the suggestions posted on Halifax Pride Committee, you that is Pride in Halifax. Yet, as supports as the Jazz Festival and year. I’ve been talking with friends the Pride website and, even better, either walk away in stunned relief, one of those hard-bitten former the Atlantic Film Festival. If this and colleaugues, and I’ve put some please join us at the AGM on Sep- or you keep coming back for more Co-Chairs, I know it takes a lot of could happen, I believe it might ideas down on paper about some tember 13th. I’ve always believed punishment. I’m afraid I fall into work to put it all in place, and I’m be of benefit to Prides around the ways the Committee might be that a Pride Festival will tell you a the second category. I’m hooked not just talking about unloading region, as we could share ideas and set up differently. You can have a lot about the health and well-being by the extraordinary uplift I get trucks and heaving metal barriers contacts.There’s no doubt in my look at these on the Halifax Pride of any given Queer community, when I see our fabulous commu- around in a steady downpour for mind that Halifax can become a website (www.halifaxpride.com), and all our Pride Festivals (Right nity parading its Rainbow won- three hours on the Halifax Com- major destination for LGBT tour- or by visiting gayhalifax.org/pride on, Truro!) tell me we’re very derfulness through the heart of this mons! It goes on for months and ists from around the world, and ideas before they are voted on at much alive and kicking, here on most beautiful and historic (and it’s a huge challenge. that Pride will play a huge role in Pride’s Annual General Meeting the East Coast. historically Queer) old seaport. I I think Pride needs to revisit its that. It’s already making a differ- on Thursday, September 13. love Pride! I love the lectures and way of doing business. I think it ence. Yet for Pride to really achieve So this is my heartfelt plea to Greater Moncton Pride Week 2007 River Of Pride Committee ex- River of Pride week festivities a More parties at Triangles have ties amongst sporting events. tends an open invitation to all in great discount, starting at just $119 been added over the two weekend Our major fundraing source, releasing the Moncton-Riverview- a night! This fantastic rate can be stretch, with a kick off “White monthly colour parties, finshed Dieppe Pride Calendar of Events, obtained by dialing 1-888-351-7666 Party” preceded by a BBQ on with an all-colour bash on August scheduled between September 8 (ROOM) and ask for the Special September 8 and a “Party Gras” on 4. Special thanks to Triangles, through 16 inclusive, throughout Pride rate reference code “MNP.” Friday, September 14. Moosehead, Finlandia, Southern Greater Metro Moncton. Remem- This years theme of “Moving Our annual parade, scheduled Comfort, Amore Passion, Delta ber, you are on average within a Walls” has effectively achieved on Saturday, September 15 at 2 Beausejour, My Place Diversity two hour drive from a guaranteed more attention and visibility from p.m., will be led by Pride Marshall shop, volunteers and proud bar proud time. sponsors, and especially has gener- Cherie MacLeod, Executuve Direc- patrons who helped out in so many River Of Pride Committee 2007 A special welcome goes out to ated more interest from within tor, PFLAG Canada. A Rally will ways over the last seven months. all students returning to classes our own community. With extra follow at Riverfront Park with the For more information, visit throughout our region. emphasis on getting more people annual Pride Ball latter that same www.fiertemocntonpride.ca, or Out-of-towners are reminded involved this year, we have in- evening. A special Brunch at the contact Paul LeBlanc, Secretary, that Delta Beausejour Moncton cluded a variety of sports events, a Delta and T-Dance at Amore Pas- River Of Pride, paulleblanc@rogers. is offering anyone attending the Family day and a Youth evening. sion on Sunday concludes festivi- com or 506 854 3081. Newfoundland GUYZ Project The Gay Urban Youth Zone Over the past 17 months, the Shortall, Gay Urban Youth Zone 47 Janeway Place, St. John’s New- (GUYZ) Project is a project of Project has been involved in a Project Coordinator at the AIDS foundland, A1A 1R7. You can also the AIDS Committee of New- number of initiatives: on-going Committee of Newfoundland and call locally 579-8656 x.28, or toll foundland and Labrador. It is a bar and event outreach, education Labrador, Tommy Sexton Centre, free 1-800-563-1575. 26-month endeavour funded by the and resource development, and Public Health Agency of Canada. the completion of an online educa- The Project is an excellent way tional tool to reach young gay men. for young gay men in St. John’s The website touches on issues of to find a sense of community, sexuality, self-esteem, sexual orien- connect with local resources, and tation, prevention, hepatitis, HIV, learn how to tackle issues that and STIs, as well as testing informa- affect their health and well-being. tion. The GUYZ Project website The GUYZ Project is designed to is also accessible from the AIDS educate young gay men about HIV, Committee of Newfoundland and STIs and Hep C, as well as inform Labrador (ACNL) website. Please service providers of some of the bookmark it and share it widely. issues that gay youth face—issues For more information, con- such as heterosexism, judgmental doms, community referrals, or attitudes, and lack of support. site feedback, please contact Chris 179-7001 Wayves 1_6_K 2/9/07 12:15 PM Page 5 Experience pays off.

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Professional Realty Wayves September 2007 5 Fire Impacts Queer Businesses jor. There was around $200,000 in the liquor inspectors to ensure that We won’t know until sometime in By Randall Perry their investigation, it was deemed In the early evening hours of July damage. By the middle of August, we can extend our license. We have September if this possibility exists, that a cigarette or something of the though, the second half of the din- to meet with a structural engineer so right now this future growth is 27, fire broke out inside the apart- sort caught the bedding on fire and ment located in the annex portion ing room should be re-opened and to determine that the building is all in the planning stages.” it went through the apartment,” he we’ll be back to normal.” sound so that we can create a dance of the building housing Mollyz explained. “As a result we lost the Diner and Menz Bar. Within a When asked to address the floor on the second level of the entire length of the bar from two rumours of possible expansion of Mollyz annex and eventually move short time the flames had con- ceiling tiles out, when the water sumed the contents of the apart- the seminal Gottingen Street queer the office to the third floor. came in from the third floor. The businesses, Doug explained his “There are also negotiations ment. Local firefighters worked to water took out all the electronics contain the blaze and eventually tentative plans. “We are definitely going on with our landlord with and equipment stored in the cage investigating that possibility,” he regard to taking over the entire extinguished it. However, the blaze and behind the bar. left the annex gutted. Water and said. “There’s a lot of work to building versus the sixty percent “From there the water contin- be done before this can happen. occupancy that we currently have. smoke caused significant damage to ued through and wiped out most the businesses in the building. We need to sit down with the There’s a lot of negotiations going of the alcohol and all the food in city to determine whether the af- on right now and lot of legwork to Co-owner Doug Melanson in- the diner,” Doug continued. “Com- dicated that both businesses were fected section of the building can ensure that we can move things for- pared to the small kitchen fire we be converted from residential to ward from a business point of view. closed for over a week for repairs. had earlier this year, this was ma- “After the fire inspectors had done commercial. We need to meet with

BLT Womyn Camping! ISCANS News August has proven once again to And Scarlet Go Beyond The Red By Karen Clarke be a very busy month for ISCANS Door.” Other Coronation Week On the weekend of July 27 – July went hiking in the woods. During as we continue to focus on weekly events leading up to the gala ball 29, 2007, the BLT of womyn of the night we all sat around the roar- fundraising through entertainment, include an In Town Show and Out Halifax went camping at Graves ing fire, exchanging stories of days silver collection and barbecues. of Town Show, where entertainers Island in Chester, NS. This was gone by and singing songs. It was a However, our biggest fundraiser from Halifax and other areas per- the largest and best camping trip chance for old friends to reconnect draws ever closer—our annual gala form for great audiences. Anyone ever. For some, it was a chance and to make new friends, too. A Coronation ball. Coronation this wishing to learn more about these to relax and enjoy the gorgeous BLT camping trip would not be year will be held at the Holiday exciting events can visit our web- weather. One camper said that complete without pizza delivery Inn Select on Robie Street on No- site at www.imperialcourtns.com, “it was so nice to just be myself and prizes for having the most fun. vember 3, with the theme “Debu- which is updated regularly. without prejudice.” There wasTHE WORLDS’S ODDEST COMIC SHOP! The memories of this trip will not tantes And Debauchery: Rhett never a dull moment with gameswww .soonstran gbeea dforgotten,ventures.c oandm will be told like Washer Toss, Bocce Ball and over again around campfires for a Buy a house, get a just throwing a baseball around. long time. Some of the women went to the You can read about our August fridge magnet (and beach and cooled off, while others event in the next issue of Wayves. outstanding service).

Rosie Porter Wayves Distribution Realtor HALIFAX , NS & FREDERICTON, NB Points Competition cell 209-7073 1-866-6-COMICS www.rosiep.ca Wayves is expanding its distribu- place and theTHE contactWIDEST AND informationWISEST SELECTION IN ATLANTIC CANADA tion network and we need your for a manager there with whom we help! can coordinate distribution. If Wayves isn’t easily available The first person to suggest each in your community, please help us new location where we end up dis- out by suggesting a corner store, tributing will receive “an allegedly newsstand, or bookstore or other fabulous prize!” Send your snail- public place where we could dis- mail address in with your sugges- tribute it. Send us the name of the tion, to [email protected].

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������������ ������������������� ������������� �������������� ��������� 5262 Sackville Street • downtown Halifax • • 425-2140 • strangeadventures.com Bring in this ad for 20% off any book purchase! expires Oct. 30, 2007 6 September 2007 Wayves Halifax Pride Wrap Up Stimulating, exhausting, joyful, And then there was Pride day thoughtful, diverse and very wet. --- one that might be remembered Halifax Pride week festival seems as the wettest ever surely, but one to get better and better every year. that ought more to be remembered Much of it has to do with a rainbow because the rain didn’t stop a soul Hi Tom community that feels more confi- from coming out and being count- In a small town everybody knows everybody, is always nice but this felt just a teensy bit creepy, dent in itself, and some of it has ed. The marshaling area under the which is both good and bad. For example, the although I didn’t throw the number away. to do with an extremely dedicated extraordinary direction of Parade other day I was walking back from town, strug- My next visitor was even creepier in a way. I set of individuals and many vol- co-ordinator Andy Hewlett burst gling a bit with my burden of packages and grocery awoke one morning to find a squirrel capering unteers, who passionately believe with activity and bubbled with bags when a car stopped and the driver offered me about on top of the book cases in the living room. that serving their community and colours, and the kind of excite- a lift. Gratefully I got in settling my library books Now a squirrel in the outside world is cute. When makes a difference makes our all ment associated with something and purchases by my feet. I was about to give him he makes his way down the chimney, pushes aside of our lives and communities a one is about to embark on with the directions to my place when I noticed his signal the cover plate for the stove pipe opening behind better place. knowledge one was part of a truly light was already on to turn onto my street. the painting and enters my space, he’s a rat! I The week included a number of splendid and special moment. “I live over -” I began to say. “Yes, I know.” yelled at him and he quickly exited but over the event firsts --- the Homo Hopper, a And a special moment it was he replied. next 3 or 4 days he made several return visits. I film festival that reeled out double --- this year’s parade included We drive past the lady who makes and sells knew something had to be done before he showed the number of screenings (with a community and protest groups, two foot ceramic images of Joseph, Mary and up with tiny suitcases and plans to rearrange the do-it-yourself porn contest, which the local bars, many of our valued baby Jesus by the roadside and who has the kind furniture. My landlord got a mesh thing to fit was much less porn but more a partners, the Pride bus, the Queen of vague beatific smile I associate with the heavily the top of the chimney but unfortunately Mr. night of uproarious laughter and fire engine and a noticable partici- medicated. I feel vaguely disturbed by the fact that Bushytail was in the chimney when it was installed. quirky shorts), runs, walks and pation by our political representa- all the ceramic babies Jesus are left in their scanty What followed next was as farcical as a silent film cycling activities, and a beautiful tives. Mayor Kelly joined us for swaddling clothes in the broiling sun without so comedy. My landlord armed with a narrow slat family picnic at the Dartmouth the first time, and we honoured by much as sunscreen for protection. The woman’s of wood begins poking about in the hole, like an Commons. Grand Marshal Candy Palmater’s neighbour claims to be able to heal her fellow aging Dartagnan with a sword, while I opened the Our community had the pleas- presence, and led by a contingent of shoppers in the checkout line at the supermarket sliding doors. There is a sudden blur of movement, ure of enjoying other established our men and women in blue. just by touching their carts. Quite a religious my landlord trips over the ottoman, I shout some- events --- that we’ve grown to If success is measured by num- neighbourhood in a way. thing incomprehensible and the squirrel runs past love: an enhanced Harbour Cruise; bers of attendees --- it was unparal- Moments later, without any information from the open door and hides under my desk. An hour Reading Out Loud, which was leled in our communities’ history me, the car made a smooth turn into my drive- and a half of noise making, threatening, cajoling hosted again by the indomitable --- if measured in spirit, our com- way. I gathered up my belongings and opened the and finally just patiently waiting, follows and the Jane Kansas and which drew a munity engaged completely in the door but found myself unable to move. Seatbelt! little vermin is gone. much wider group of readers and most varied and interesting array Damn. I collapse onto the sofa and then jump about attendees than in previous years. of events and activities our com- A hand appeared on my thigh and I knew it three feet when the phone rings. The voice is so The Dykes vs. Divas baseball game munity has seen to date. wasn’t mine since they were both fully occupied soft at first I think there is no one there. “Are packed them in, close to 2500 ... The all-volunteer Pride Com- with plastic bags. “We should get together some- you alone?” he whispers. “You don’t know me and the Dykes proved once again mittee worked very hard this year time.” His hand moved upward and not towards but I’d like to have sex with you sometime but I’d that they reigned supreme over and despite itself succeeded and the seatbelt release. Part of my brain suggested I have to wear a mask.” I covered the mouthpiece to the Divas’, dare it be said, flaccid overcame its challenges and dif- say something like Unhand me you varlet! - I’d muffle my laughter. “In the woods,” he continues performance. All in good fun. ficulties. Next time you see one of been reading a Regency romance - but I wasn’t and then gives me a lurid detailed list of the acts The flag raising at the Grand the committee members --- thank quite sure what a varlet was or even if I wanted to he like to experience. I imagine a naked man Parade drew more people to a them. Also take a moment and be unhanded. (It’s been a somewhat slow summer, by a tree wearing a feathered Carnival in Venice pivotal and powerfully symbolic recall our many partners in our if you know what I mean.) Another part of my mask. I’m intrigued by his imagination. Then, event in the heart of HRM, the community who funded this year’s brain was trying to recall what I knew about ... let’s abruptly the birdman says, “My wife’s home, I’ll acknowledgement of our place in events (halifaxpride.com) --- and call him, Donald. He works in a store in town, call you back.” the larger community. don’t forget to do your business lives with his parents, early forties, not unattrac- Yep, just another boring day in small town This year also marked a new with them. And lastly and most tive I suppose though I had never thought of him Nova Scotia. and emerging collaboration with importantly --- thank yourselves sexually at all. I was mentally undressing him and Love ya! two major city festivals, Tall Ships for making the week of celebration wondering if he seemed more of a top or a bottom, and Jazz East. Halifax Pride also your own by coming out in all of when he slid a card into my shirt pocket. “My received some of its’ best attention your diversity. cell number,” he said withdrawing his fingers very to date by the local media. slowly and brushing against the volume control for lust radio. “Call me.” My poor cerebellum, completely unprepared for this situation, fell back on my early childhood brainwashing in politeness. “Thanks,” I said, meaning the ride home. “Um, yeah, sure,” I muttered – all my language skills deserting me - and then “thanks” again when he fi- nally disengaged the seatbelt. I bolted from the car faster than Paris Hilton from jail and then stood panting like a marathoner at the finish line once I gained the haven of my apartment. Attention Wayves September 2007 7 Dawn’s Early Light Dear Dawn, I’m not gay but I do men (MSM) account for the largest it’s somewhat safer to give than STI’s. STI’s will increase your risk life and my sex partners at risk enjoy fucking men sometimes. I’ve number of reported HIV diagnoses receive. Gentle anal sex with lots of HIV transmission. because I can’t get off without a been happily married for 22 years. in Canada. In fact, MSM account of lube is less risky than rough sex These are only a few ideas to raincoat? In my opinion, that’s My wife knows and is fine with it as f o r 7 0 % o f help you lower your risk. Knowl- extremely selfish. Why not use a long as I don’t bring anything home. positive HIV edge is power—if you want to learn condom? You can get some very But herein lies the problem: I can’t get tests since 1985. For me bare-backing is the only more, contact your local AIDS good, very thin condoms that al- off if I have to wear a raincoat to do Knowing this, way, otherwise what’s the point? service organization, or check out low for maximum sensitivity. Just it. For me bare-backing is the only you must ad- www.rainbowhealth.ca for more imagine how much better fucking way, otherwise what’s the point? Is mit bare-back- Is it really that risky, I mean is info. It’s important to communi- could be without all these concerns it really that risky, I mean, is it easy ing is taking a cate with your sex partners. Ask on your mind . to catch HIV this way? huge risk for it easy to catch HIV this way?” them if they are positive, but don’t Stay safe! Dawn Signed, Going without my rain- you and your rely solely on what they say—they coat. wife. without lube. Obviously, cum- may not be aware of their own Dear Raincoatless, YES it is! However, if you insist on “go- ming outside is safer than inside an HIV status. How often do you Come To The You need to know your risks so ing without a raincoat” there are ass or mouth. Keeping your penis get tested? Light! you can make informed decisions. ways to reduce the risk. HIV is and your ass clean before and after Knowing that you are in the Dawn wants to hear from you. For example, according to Health harder to pass from bottom to top will also help a little. If you are the highest risk group, you really have Let Dawn shed some light on Canada, men who have sex with than it is from top to bottom, so top, taking a leak after sex can also to ask yourself what it’s worth—is your personal problems. Contact lower your chance of getting some it worth putting my life, my wife’s her at [email protected]. Halifax Pride Day Synagogue by Ralph Higgins circumstances change. He pointed On the morning of July 21,2007, out that this has already happened Dan MacKay and I attended serv- within the Jewish faith in areas like ice at Shar Shalom synagogue in divorce, interest rates and slavery. Halifax. Judaism is not my normal And now it is time to change the spiritual practice—this was in fact rules about homosexuality. He my first visit to a synagogue—but stated firmly that he was in favour the cantor, Ari Isenberg, was to of gay rights and was honoured speak that morning on the topic and happy to be taking part in of being gay and Jewish. He read the multidenominational service first from a memoir written by a as part of Gay Pride Week. I was gay rabbi who had struggled with surprised to find myself quite emo- his feelings and desires for many tional hearing his words. Perhaps years—especially at Yom Kippur, those words of acceptance and wel- the day of atonement when pas- come touched on old sealed-away sages from Leviticus would be read feelings from a time when I felt I aloud. Cantor Isenberg went on could not be gay and also loved by to describe the traditional ways of the Creator. dealing with homosexuality within I was reminded of Sister Jean- the Jewish faith. Fasting and prayer, nine Gramick, who for over twen- cold showers, getting married, even ty years has ministered to and eating figs were all methods used worked for the queer community in hopes of “curing” gay men and in spite of being told repeatedly women. If all else failed you would by the Vatican to stop. Sister Jean- be advised to dress in black and nine has written books, organized leave the area, taking your shame retreats, spoken publicly on LGBT away from your friends and fam- rights and co-founded New Ways ily—an attitude chillingly familiar Ministry, a Catholic social justice to most of us. center. When pressure was brought However, Cantor Isenberg then to bear on her order, the School went on to say that while princi- Sisters of Notre Dame, and she ples should be held onto, the rules was told she must refrain from can and should change as social Cont’d to Synagogue, p. 18 8 September 2007 Wayves The Nature Of Queer V - Gay Evolution

By Gerrit Volkmann of homosexual sex clearly excludes Evolution of human behavior can Ever since the first proof of a link the production of offspring and hardly be demonstrated experi- between homosexuality and genet- thus the transmission of genetic mentally, so theories are the closest ics became evident, a heated discus- material, amongst it the putative scientists can come up with. sion arose on how the proposed “gay genes.” Evolutionary psychologists try genetic factors are maintained in Explanations for this “Darwin- to explain the persistence of homo- the human population. The nature ian paradox” do not come easy. The more feminine attributes a man exhibited, the more his attractiveness towards women increased. sexuality by the gross restructuring of social networks that occurred within the last 10,000 years. As the “hunter-gatherer period” ended and the “agricultural era” began, man was faced with a plethora of new tasks, which required development of more fine-tuned organizing skills in the fields of communication and social leadership, which are commonly viewed as feminine attributes. The more feminine attributes a man exhibited, the more his attrac- tiveness towards women increased. Women saw these men as better po-

Cont’d to page 13 Wayves September 2007 9 MAC Leather IX Competition Labour Day Weekend

MAC Leather Society presents: 2006 .She has Charlottetown PEI then headed the province of Ontario legalized we were both still married back Pirates de la Chaleur/Pirates of been involed in west after graduating from UPEI marriage in 2002. And tirelessly then there was no assoiation in the the Chaleur. As the community with a Bach- found the province of New Bruns- bathurst so along with some good you get ready for and has volen- elor Degree wick to do the same. A decision friends we started GNG in our camp, make sure to teered in many in Psychol- which was won in 2004. very small trailer...never know we include some leather events within ogy. Stewart Art held the title of Mr. Leather might try it again but this time in and boot polish so the gay com- w o r k e d i n Moncton in 2005, and was sec- Miramichi you can take part in munity..Diane Montreal in ond runner up for Mr. Atlantic I have been into leather for quite MAC Leather IX in also sells Pride retail and had Canada Leather that same year. He a few yrs it started in 98 when Petit-Rocher, New merchandise in his own land- was also first runner up in MAC I spent some time in Calgary I Marcel Brunswick. the Atlantic Provinces, traveling to scaping busi- Leather in 2006. came back totaly hooked. I love Mr Leather For the first time all Pride events. ness prior to Art enjoys Genealogy, Garden- the smell, feel and the look of G . N . G . GNG Pride Week- moving back ing, and spending time with his leather and I rarely go out of the 2007 end (Aug 31--Sep 3) ______to PEI last year. This is his first husband of 7 years Wayne, and house without at least one piece of will include the Ms tryout in the leather community their three dogs, Sasha, Kiki, and leather on. & Mr Atlantic Canada Leather Grant Lively is 37 years old 5,10 and looking forward to competing Maggie. I recently got my first Bike and Competition on Sunday, Septem- 155 lbs. Originally from Ontario with other like minded men and now it seems complete. Bikes ber 2, at 6:00 pm. grew up in women. ______do go better with Leather or is it With the spectacular Baie de Cha- Nova Scotia Leather is Better with a Bike not leur as a backdrop, contestants and has made ______Rick: I’m 48 yrs old I was born in quite sure but all I know is it sure from all across Atlantic Canada New Bruin- St Stephen feels great together. will take the stage. The show will swick home Art Vautor is 50 years old, and NB but I include entertainment, prize draws fro the last 11 stands at 5’ was raised in ______and a victory party and BBQ! years .Recent- 7” tall. A Wabush La- Venture on up to Camp Ectus for ly Transferd native of bador where Troy More- the contest, the day, the night, or to Amherst Moncton, my father house, 39 and better still, the weekend! Nova Scotia. he has been was police holding. Troy Check out www.gngnb.ca G r a n t h a s an active chief His stands 5’ 8” for more information. or call been into the member of leather Belt and weighs Paul at (506) 854-3081 or email leather scene for the past 7 years the Leather and shoul- 170 lbs and [email protected] and has been involved in several Communi- der harness lives in Saint community fundraisers. He has ty for the past several years. allways ap- John, NB. Here are the MAC Leather Con- participated in past Mr. Leather Art is the co-founder of Monc- pelled to me so I guess thats where T r o y i s testants for 2007. Moncton contests as well as MAC ton Pride, and an advocate for the my intrest in leather first started employed as Leather contests. rights of Gays and Lesbians in I am a father of 2 beautiful girls an electrica l Diane LeBlanc is a young 48 year New Brunswick. He also owned sophie and chantal I’m also a engineer in old,single woman, who is the cur- ______and operated the first “Gay Pride” proud grandfather to 2 boys Cain the telecom rent Mz. Moncton Leather.She store in Moncton. and Zale and I have my third on industry, and also a technical has been into leather for 30 years. Stewart MacDonald, Mr. Leather Art and his husband were one of the way. guy (lights, web, multimedia) for She also was the Mz. moncton PEI, Rainbow Lodge, Vernon the first gay couples in the Monc- I have been with the same “Impulse Dance Bar & Lounge” in leather fellowship for 2005 and Bridge PEI. Stewart grew up in ton area to be legally married when partner for 19 yrs we met while Saint John. Currently Mr. Leather Saint John 2007 Pictou County Celebrates Pride

The rainbow community of Pictou man Paris read County celebrated their 2007 Pride out a letter on Festival from August 7 to 11. It behalf of New started off with a quiet ceremony Glasgow Mayor at the New Glasgow Riverfront, Ann MacLean. where the Gay Pride Flag was Other speak- raised. ers included a Guest speakers pointed out to representative the small gathered crowd the im- from the North- portance of equality and diversity ern Aids Con- represented by the Pride Flag and nection Society, Pride Festivities. Pictou East MLA and members Clarrie MacKinnon addressed how of the Pride of important the work is that the Pictou County. Pride Committee of Pictou County Pictou County has done this year. Councilor Nor- Pride chair Ra- Pride of Pictou County Chair, Ramona Westgate; mona Westgate Councillor Jack Lewis; Pictou East MLA Clarrie noted that this MacKinnon; Councillor Clyde Fraser; New Glasgow was the second acting Cheif of Police Pride Festival hosted by the Pride of Pictou County, and that New Glasgow Library, a talent for the second year in a row to show hosted by the Youth Group, arrange the flag raising “all we had a BBQ and a Dance. All events to do was ask.” The Pride Flag re- were open to the general public. mained up for the duration of the For more information about the Pride of Pictou County or the Pictou County Pride BBQ (left to Pride Festivities. Other activities of the week Pride activities, please visit their right): Co-chair Albert Sampson, Lee website at www.prideofpictou- Bexanson, and Ramona Westgate include a Public Screening of “Pr- iscilla Queen of the Desert” at the county.ca. 10 September 2007 Wayves Your Halifax Pride ‘07 Scrapbook Photo Credits: Gerrit Volkmann Flag Raising... Mike Tompkins - Wainwright Tribute

Art Gallery & ReelOut!...

DalOut Trivia Night... Family Pride Picnic...

Reflections Pride Show...

Youth Art, Lunch Lectures, Reading Out Loud, more Book Launches and Playwrites Perform...

Pride Week Launch...

Rufus Wainright Tribute Wayves September 2007 11

Dykes vs. Divas Game Your Halifax Pride ‘07 Scrapbook & Homo Hopper

Harbour Cruise...

Queer Rufus Wainright Tribute Comedy... 12 September 2007 Wayves

Presents Ms. & Mr. Atlantic Canada Leather Contest

Sunday, September 2, 2007* 18:00 - 22:00 Petit-Rocher New Brunswick * part of pride camping, Aug 31 -- Sept 3, www.gngnb.ca Wayves September 2007 13

Heirloom Tomato Salad “Carprese Style” Chef’s Corner Ingredients (side salad for 4) Since mid August or so, we have been in the 4 large beefsteak tomatoes (tops sliced off and peak of tomato season. The absolute best, reserved, core hollowed out) Vinaigrette in my opinion, are the heirloom varieties. 2 lb. assorted mini heirloom tomatoes (washed 1/2 cup whole garlic cloves They come in all different shapes, colours and quartered) 1 cup extra virgin olive oil and sizes and have a particularly excellent 2 slices day old Italian loaf (rub with olive oil and 1/2 of a roasted red pepper (jarred are O.K., cut in balance of acidity to sweetness. This salad grill on both sides, then small dice) small dice) makes a great side to any seasonal meal, and 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola blue cheese 1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar particularly any grilled items, be they meat, 1/2 cup torn fresh basil leaves 1/4 cup minced fresh chives fish, or vegetables. I based it on the Italian 1 tbsp minced red onion 1 tsp fleur de sel and classic “Carprese” which is tomato, basil and 4 tbsp prepared basil pesto 1/2 tsp fresh cracked pink pepper (or to taste) fresh mozzarella cheese, day old bread, aged Method balsamic vinegar and good olive oil. This is 1. Place the garlic and oil in a sauce pan and bring to 180F on a deep fry thermometer, reduce heat to my interpretation on an old classic brought 160F and poach the garlic until fork tender. (note: this should take about 10 minutes; garlic should have to new life. “Viva l’Italia!” no colour.) 2. When garlic is ready, remove it from the oil, give it a rough chop and set aside. Whisk the vinegar into the oil, add remaining vinaigrette ingredients, stir, and place in an airtight container. Chef Darren is Chef and Co-owner of Chives Canadian Bistro, Hali- Refrigerate overnight for best flavour. 3. When ready to make salad, place all ingredients except for the fax’s newest two star restaurant, 1537 Barrington Street, Halifax, N.S. beefsteak tomatoes in a mixing bowl. Toss the ingredients with enough vinaigrette to coat everything, For reservation call (902) 420-9626, www.chives.ca . season the inside of the beefsteak tomatoes, and fill with the mixed salad. 4. Place 1 tbsp of pesto in the center of 4 serving bowls, place a stuffed tomato on top of the pesto in each bowl, drizzle with a little more vinaigrette, cover with their respective tomato tops and serve. Menz Bar Winner nights’ accommodation at Hôtel Note: This salad is always better when the tomatoes are at room temperature. Menz Bar would like to congratu- Le St-André courtesy of Menz Bar late Jerry Sampson, winner of & Moosehead. Also included are a our trip for two to Montreal’s $50 gift certificate and two tickets Halifax Rainbow DIVERS/CITÉ (August 3rd - 5th, to a DIVERS/CITÉ main event 2007). The prize package includes courtesy of Priape. Community return airfare for two, plus three Regards, Doug Melanson & David Centre Landry, Menz Bar Two Halifax groups, Centre of Hope and BLT Womyn, have Cont’d from Nature of Queer, page 8 started a petition to explore peo- tential fathers since they were more and woman-on-woman does not ple’s interest in a “Rainbow Com- empathetic, sensitive and kind, and equal a baby, but: gays produce munity Centre” here in HRM. less of a danger in terms of aggres- sperm and lesbians have eggs, so Shaun Adams of the Centre of sion. The “new” man therefore we are definitely able to reproduce. Hope writes, “Through our group had a selective advantage over the Many lesbians choose to give birth, discussions,and board meetings, we “old” man. Homosexuality then and surely there are gays that would feel very strongly that this resource developed in male offspring had like to have children of their own is needed for the community. We they received a copiousness of (me, for instance). Besides, there are envision a place where people those female attributes. numerous gay men that come out can meet, be themselves, and feel A slightly different perspective of the closet after having produced acceptance. We would love to on how homosexuality may have offspring, i.e. after passing on their see workshops, education, video been manifested is through same- genes. So the transmission of gay conference technology, and space sex alliances. Men were able to genes by homosexuals themselves rentals available to groups within gain power and respect through surely contributes to homosexual our GLBTQ community.” You homosocial behavior, thereby en- persistence as well. Now that’s can find their petition located at suring their survival. The genetic research to look into! the Dalhousie Women’s Centre, traits of this behavior were thus at 6286 South Street. If you would preferentially transmitted to off- like to know more, please check spring, and then further evolved Check out the out centreofhopehalifax.org . into homosexuality? May I ask at this point: Whatever happened to same-sex alliances? VENUS ENVY The only fact-based theory picks up a point that I mentioned in one advisor of my earlier columns: the unusu- ally high number of homosexuals Famed writer and sexual activist in the maternal line of families. A research study suggests that females in maternal lines of homosexuals Patrick show a higher fecundity than do Califia females in maternal lines of hetero- sexuals, thus transmitting “larger is available to answer quantities” of genetic material, and your questions about thus possibly “gay genes.” life, love, and sex! BeProud In all of the readings on the evolutionary persistence of ho- mosexuality, I was struck that one fact was never addressed: the actual transmission of genes by homo- at Queen&Morris sexuals due to sexual reproduction. It seems to me as though scientists www.venusenvy.ca/advisor think that homosexuality excludes the production of offspring. Okay, Magazines this is true for the nature of homo- 429.5468 sexual sexual activity: man-on-man 1598 barrington st, halifax 902-422-0004 www.atlanticnews.ns.ca for everyone. 14 September 2007 Wayves W AYVES G ROUPS A ND S ERVICES Atlantic Canada time and place.) is an information/resource, service, and peer support HalGal Mailing List, Halifax: events and information SAAFE (Supporting An Alternative Friendly Environ- PFLAG Canada - Fredericton, Fredericton: all wel- centre staffed by trained volunteers!. 737-7619 email: for queer/lesbian/bi/trans women and their allies in ment), Truro: Social/support group at the NS Agricul- AtlanticCanadianLesbians: Online Group For Lesbi- come. email: [email protected] web: www. [email protected] web: www.mun.ca/lbgt/ (Open Halifax. web: groups.yahoo.com/group/hal-gal tural College. 902-893-6300 email: lyoung@nsac. ans from the Atlantic Provinces. email: AtlanticCana geocities.com/Pflagfredericton/, meets 4th Wednes- Monday-Friday 9-4. Biweekly meetings for members Halifax Rainbow Speakers, Halifax: Speakers avail- ns.ca (Meeting are as requested.Membership [email protected] web: groups.msn. day (7-9 pm (except December: 2nd Wednesday)) and volunteers. ) at Smallwood/University Center, able, contact us if you are interested in joining also. changes each acedemic year.) com/AtlanticCanadianLesbians at Unitarian Fellowship of Fredericton 874 York St. UC-6022. Building located on Prince Phillip Drive. 494-6662 web: www.thenovascotiapublicinterestre- Safe Harbour Metropolitan Community Church, AtlanticPoz: A new discussion group is for individuals Fredericton NB E3B 3R8 Call us! Get involved! LBGT-MUN: “A Positive Place, searchgroup.dal.ca (Call for times & locations) Halifax: A Christian Church with an affirming ministry for Positive People!” living with HIV in Atlantic Canada. web: health.groups. PFLAG Canada - Moncton, Moncton: GLBTT2IQQ Imperial and Sovereign Court of Atlantic Nova to the GBLT community. Everyone is welcome!. 453- yahoo.com/group/atlanticpoz/ persons and their parents, families and friends. PFLAG Canada - St. John’s: Information or referral Society, Halifax: Fundraising. 902-449-7612 web: 9249 email: [email protected] web: safehar- Egale President & Atlantic Director, St. John’s, NL: (506) 869-8191 email: [email protected] to one of our parents. email: [email protected] web: www.imperialcourtns.com, meets 1st Sunday, and bourmcc.com, meets every Sunday (11 am) at 2786 (709) 690-5244 email: [email protected] web: web: www.pflagcanada.ca/moncton.html, meets 3rd www.pflag.ca 2nd Sunday (Executive Meetings Are Currently Held Agricola St. Bloomfield Centre, Suite #108 www.egale.ca Monday (occasionally on the 2nd Monday — please St. John’s Pride, St. John’s: St. John’s Official Pride Every Second Sunday) at Meeting Locations Vary Saint Mary’s Campus Outreach Society: Gay Men’s Gathering: at PO Box 36054, Halifax., call) at 7:30-9:30 PM at U. de M. in Rm 302, Adrien- Organization. 709-746-6564 email: info@stjohnspride. Intensity Dance, Halifax: non-profit dance col- Second Story Women’s Centre, Lunenburg: We B3J 3S9 J.-Cormier Building. net web: www.stjohnspride.net lective and presenting organization. email: offer a meeting space for women, support counsel- GaySpaces: Free postings of GLBT-friendly places PFLAG Canada - Sackville/Amherst, Sackville NB/ [email protected] web: intensitydance. ling, programs, and referrals. (902)640-3044 email: to live in Atlantic Canada. email: info@gayspaces. Amherst NS: Support and education for GLBTT2IQQ Nova Scotia (902) tripod.com [email protected] web: www.secstory.com at org web: www.gayspaces.org persons, friends & family. 506-536-4245 email: Acadia Pride, Wolfville: Acadia’s GLBT group. 585- Lesbian, Gay & Bisexual Youth Project, Halifax: Second Story Women’s Centre is located at 22 King [email protected], meets 2nd Monday (7:30 to Street, Post Office Centre, Lunenburg. Gender Expressions Atlantic: Support for transgen- 2165 email: [email protected] web: euler. support, education and social activities for youth 9:30pm No meeting in July and August.) at Meeting acadiau.ca/~apride/, meets every Monday (7:30pm 25 and under from across Nova Scotia. 429-5429 Sexual Health Centre for Cumberland County, Cum- dered individuals ranging from Crossdressers to location alternates monthly between Sackville: United Transexuals. email: gender_expressions@hotmail. (during academic year)) at Beverage Forum (old email: [email protected] web: www. berland County: We provide sexuality information and Church Parlours, 112 Main Street, and Amherst: SUB) youthproject.ns.ca (support and connection across, education in an environment that respects and sup- com web: www.geocities.com/gender_expressions/ Maggie’s Place, 12 LaPlanche Street (No scheduled meeting. Occasional social events, Acadia Women’s Centre, Wolfville: 585-2140 email: Week one: Monday – Transgender Discussion group ports choice. 667-7500 email: [email protected]. by invitation only.) PFLAG Canada - Saint John NB, Saint John: [email protected] web: axe.acadiau.ca/women- 7-9 pm; Tuesday – 18 & under Discussion group 6-8 ca web: cumberlandcounty.cfsh.info at 12 LaPlanche Provides support to anyone dealing with issues of centre (Acadia SUB Second Level Balcony ) pm; Week two: Tues. Drop-in - 6-8 pm; Wed. – Movie St., Amherst Monday - Thursday, 9 - 5 (by chance or Halifax Transguys: support group for transmen at any sexual orientation and/or gender identity. 648-9700 Night 7-9 pm. Week three: Mon. Transgender Discus- appt.) Confidential, hassle-free. Free condoms point in transition, locally and in Atlantic Canada. at email: [email protected], [email protected] Affirm United, Halifax Metro: GLBT & Friends support, sion group – 7-9 pm; Wed. Activity Night. Week four: Please write for further information on our upcoming action and worshipping community within the United Sexual Health Centre Lunenburg County, Bridgewa- web: www.pflag.ca/saintjohn.htm (1st Friday of each Tues. Theme Drop-in – 6-9 pm; Wed. Movie Night ter: Confidential information, support & services for meetings and social events. month September - June at 7pm. No meeting in July Church. 902-461-4528 email: [email protected] at – 7-9 pm. A youth food bank and STI testing on site. Box 33067, Halifax, NS B3L 4T6 all ages & genders. Free condoms & info pamphlets. Healing Our Nations, Dartmouth: Healing Our Nations & August. ) at 116 Coburg Street in Saint John, New Please refer to website for times and details. ) at 2281 527-2868 email: [email protected] web: is an Aboriginal HIV/AIDS service organization that Brunswick in the Community Health Centre next to AIDS Coalition of Cape Breton, Sydney: Sup- Brunswick Street. www.LunCo.cfsh.info (Open by chance or by appoint- serves the Atlantic region. (902) 492-4255 email: St. Joseph’s Hospital. port, advocacy, prevention/education for those LGB Youth Support Group Lunenburg County, ment ) at 4 Hillcrest Street Unit 8, Bridgewater. (On [email protected] web: www.healingourna- Port City Rainbow Pride, Saint John: Pride Celebra- infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Free condoms!. Bridgewater: fun social/support group for under 25 the corner of Dufferin and Hillcrest Streets). Closed tions.ca (Healing Our Nations staff meet once on a tions Committee. email: events@portcityrainbowprid (902) 567-1766 email: [email protected] through the Sexual Health Ctr & LGBYouth Project. during summers. weekly basis. Training offered on request at no charge ;[email protected] web: www.accb. e.com web: www.portcityrainbowpride.com 527-2868 email: [email protected] South Shore Pride Social Club, Bridgewater: for 19 for Aboriginal peoples and/or organizations.) at 15 ns.ca, meets 1st Tuesday (6:00pm Board Meetings (Postponed until further notice: Volunteer facilitators Alderney Dr., Suite 3, Dartmouth, NS. B2Y2N2 River Of Pride, Moncton: Organizes, promotes - Anonymous HIV Testing Available - See website for & older. 685-3297 email: [email protected] and produces Moncton’s Pride events!. email: needed! (over age 25)) web: www.southshorepride.ca (No meetings at this Maritime Transgender Workplace Solutions Project, full calendar of events. ) at 150 Bentinck St, Sydney, [email protected] web: www.fier- N.S. B1P 6H1 Manna For Health, Halifax: A special needs referral time.) at We hold dances on the third Saturday of each Upper Musquodoboit: Transgender Issues Work- temonctonpride.ca, meets 1st Tuesday, and last food bank for those living with life threatening illness. month from 9:00PM to 1:00AM. No dance in July. shops and information resource. (902)568-2935 Tuesday (contact [email protected] for further AIDS Coalition of Nova Scotia, Halifax: non-profit, 429-7670 Door prizes and 50/50 draw and a major prize draw at email: [email protected] web: www3. community-based AIDS organization, provincially meeting and event dates) at Triangles bar 234 Northern AIDS Connection Society, Truro: HIV June dance. Cash Bar. Call or email for location. ns.sympatico.ca/winpapernews (No meetings, Work- St.George St. Moncton NB mandated. (902)429-7922 email: [email protected] shops by arrangements, Information source when web: www.acns.ns.ca prevention education initiative serving counties Col- Tatamagouche Centre, Tatamagouche: We are requested. Newsletter Odds & Sods bi-weekly) Safe Spaces Fundy Region, Saint John: Committed chester, Pictou, Cumberland & East Hants. 895-0931 an affirming centre, welcoming all gay, lesbian, to ending discrimination around issues of sexual Alcoholics Anonymous, Halifax: Live & Let Live AA email: [email protected] web: nacsns.tripod.com and transgendered people. 1.800.218.2220 email: Mr Atlantic Canada Leather Society, assorted cities: orientation in youth. email: [email protected] Group for GLBT community- (902) 463-7895 email: (Our Board of Directors meet bi-monthly on the third [email protected] web: www.tatacentre.ca Dedicated to developing gay leather communities in web: www.safespacesfundy.com (See our webpage [email protected] web: www.rationallunacy. Thursday of the month. Annual General Meeting held the Atlantic region. email: [email protected] com/cout, meets every Monday (at 8pm) at St Mat- Team Halifax, Halifax: All GLBT over 18, athletes for schedule of meetings and socials etc @ www. regularly in June. See webpage for contact numbers and performance artists, as well as anyone willing Names Project (AIDS Memorial Quilt): panels safespacesfundy.com) thews Church, 1479 Barrington St, Halifax (Use side in your area of northern Nova Scotia.) at 33 Pleasant door near Maritime Centre at bottom of stairs) to help out. 422-9510 web: www.teamhalifax.com - helping create, and lending. 902-454-5158 email: Safe Spaces Moncton, Moncton: Safe Spaces offers Street, Truro, N.S. (No fixed schedule at this time, look on website for [email protected] web: www.quilt.ca (Call support & counselling to GLBTQ Youth between 14- Anonymous HIV/AIDS Testing, Halifax: 455-9656 Nova Scotia Rainbow Action Project, Halifax: foster- further details.) if interested in volunteering or making a panel) at 3544 25. 869-6224 email: [email protected] web: Bedford United Church, HRM/ Bedford: An Affirming ing change through networking, education, outreach Acadia St. Halifax, NS B3K 3P2 The Rainbow - Atlantic Awareness Society, (Cape Bre- www.safespaces.ca Congregation of the United Church of Canada - ALL & community education. 902-444-7887 email: ton/Halifax/Annapolis Valley): email: tpineo@hotmail. Project E: Presentation for youth, on gender expres- Safe Spaces Moncton Region, Moncton: Support welcome. 835-8497 email: bedfordunited@eastlink. [email protected] web: www.nsrap.ca at TBA com web: To be released sion, myth busters, proper terminology and other ca web: www.bedfordunited.com, meets every Groups for GLBTQ Youth (14-25 years old). 506- Outlaw, Halifax: Queer Law Students Association Tightrope, Halifax: leather & denim brotherhood. facts. web: www.freewebs.com/xprojecte/ at available 854-3049 email: [email protected] web: www. Sunday (9 am service - Casual and contemporary at Dalhousie Law School. (Meetings vary. Please via web page service. 11 am service - Quieter and more reverent See our monthly events listing at http://gay.hfxns. safespaces.ca email if interested.) at Dalhouisie Law School. 6061 org/LocalEvents. 455-0623, ask for Don, meets Propitation: A fellowship of gay and lesbian An- in tone.) at 1200 Bedford Hwy at Sullivan’s Hill, near University Avenue. Halifax, Nova Scotia. Saint John LGBTQ Lending Library, Saint John: over Atlantic Gardens 3rd Saturday glicans and their friends. 416-977-4359 email: 300 fiction and non-fiction titles. 634-8288 email: PFLAG Canada - Amherst/Sackville: Support and [email protected] (We meet in members BLT-Womyn of Halifax, Halifax: Bi Sexauls, Lesbian, Truro Pride, Truro: A group supporting GLBT [email protected] (open Monday through Fri- education for GLBTT2IQQ persons, friends & family. individuals in the Colchester County. 902-895- homes on a Saturday or Sunday Evening once day, 9 AM to noon.) at the office of Centenary Queen Transgender Womyn’s Discussion Group. Sue’s # 506-536-4245 email: [email protected], meets 2nd every other month for Evening Prayer Discussion, 499-0335 email: [email protected] 0931 email: [email protected], meets every Square United Church at 215 Wentworth Street. monday (Contact us for meeting details.) at Sackville: Wednesday (6:30 p.m.) at Coffee and conversation refreshments and fellowship.) at --contact for meet- web: ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/blt-womynofhali- 165 Main Street. Amherst: 12 La Planche Street ing location. We prefer our heritage, worship, and SIDA AIDS Moncton, Moncton: offers support fax/ (Every second Sunday evening 6pm - 7:30pm every Wednesday evening at the FairTrade Cafe on Spirituality of the Book of Common Prayer. We are to people living with HIV and their families and ) at Dalhousie Women’s Centre 6286 South Street PFLAG Canada - Halifax, Halifax: support and educa- Prince Street, between Commercial and Dominion troubled by such right wing organizations as the friends, education and awareness. 859-9616 email: (Beside Dalplex Driveway) Hope to see you at the tion for parents, family and friends. (902) 443-3747 Streets. The group is open to all and the cafe is a gay prayer book society and Essentials. [email protected] web: www.sida-aidsmoncton. next meeting! email: [email protected] (September-March: friendly environment. For information call the Northern com at 165A Gordon St., Moncton, NB, E1C 1N1 2nd Sunday of the month, 2-4 PM April-June: 2nd AIDS ConnectionSociety at 902-895-0931 or email Wayves Magazine: Atlantic Canada’s queer news and Bluenose Bears, Halifax: Club for bears and Spectrum, Fredericton: social and support group for Wednesday of the month, 7-9 PM) at individual [email protected] The Truro Pride also hosts lifestyle magazine!. email: submissions@wayves. those who like them. 463-4312 email: homes dances and other activities, ask for details. ca web: wayves.ca (Editorial meeting one Monday students, staff and faculty at UNB and STU. email: [email protected], meets 3rd Wednes- night a month; layout one Sunday a month; see the [email protected] web: www.unbf.ca/clubs/spec- day PFLAG Canada - Middleton, Middle - Universalist Unitarian Church, Halifax: an inclusive trum, meets every Tuesday (7 pm) at SUB 203 ton: Parents & friends. 902-825-0548 email: liberal religious community 429-5500, meets every Calendar on our web page) at downtown Halifax Cape Breton University Sexual Diversity Centre, - email us for details The UNBSJ Q-Collective, Saint John: A social and [email protected] web: www.pflag- Sunday (10:30) at 5500 Inglis St Sydney: We provide a welcoming environment canada.ca/middleton.html, meets last Friday (7-9pm) support organisation for UNBSJ students, staff for GLBTQ people and their Allies. 902-563-1481 Valley Gay Men’s Coffee House, Kingston: socials and faculty. 506-648-5737 or 648-9227 email: at the Wilmot Community Centre civic address 13972 for gay men; gay & lesbian dances 19+. 902-765- New Brunswick email: [email protected] (M-F 9-4pm. Call or drop by Highway #1 wilmot. Wilmot is located just between [email protected] web: www.UNBSJ.ca (The for event listings, Ally Training, and Anti-Heterosex- 2821 email: [email protected] web: UNBSJ Q-Collective is interested in hearing from kingston and Middleton. The hall depending on faceitwithpride.tripod.com (Coffee every Thursday (506) ism/Homophobia Workshops!) at the Students’ Union direction that your coming from. Left if your coming other university LGBTQ organisations and would Building, Cape Breton University. 7-9pm, Dances on the first Saturday of the month, Affirming United Church - Centenary - Queen Square like to possibly meet or collaborate.) at various loca- from the East side and Right if your coming from the for the exception of in November. There is two United Church, Saint John: invites you to worship!. tions; event particulars will be emailed to anyone Colchester Sexual Assault Centre, Truro: Provides West direction. dances held in October, On the First Saturday and 634-8288 email: [email protected] web: www. who registers with the UNBSJ Q-Collective and/or support and information to anyone (GBLTQ included) PFLAG Canada - Sydney, Sydney: PFLAG Sydney the Last Saturday of that Month and NO Dance in cqsunited.ca, meets every Sunday (10:30am) at 215 who gets the UNBSJ weekly “E News”. Past events affected by sexual assault and abuse. 902-897- provides support & education on issues of sexual November.) at email or call for locations or special Wentworth St, Saint John, NB include the annual Rainbow Peace March, guest 4366 email: [email protected] (80 orientation & gender identity. Karen 564-8728 email: events or themes AIDS New Brunswick / SIDA Nouveau-Brunswick, speakers, movie nights, participate in Maritime Pride Glenwood Drive, Truro, N.S., B2N 1P3 Mon-Fri [email protected], meets last Sunday (of 9:30-4:30) Venus Envy Bursary Society: An annual award open Fredericton: committed to facilitating community- Parades, Supporters of PFLAG Canada’s “Communi- the month at 7:30pm. No meetings for July and to all women studying in NS. web: www.venusenvy. based responses to the issues of HIV/AIDS. 459-7518 ties Encourage Campaign” and “Champions Against Cumberland Pride, Amherst & Area: for: gay, lesbian, August.) at Family Place Resource Centre 106 ca/halifax email: [email protected] web: www.aidsnb.com Homophobia”. bisexual, transgender and transsexual individuals. Townsend Street, Sydney NS X-Pride, Antigonish: social & support group at X. (Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30AM to 12:30PM UN sur DIX - l’Association des étudiant.e.s GLB de 660-5004 email: [email protected], PFLAG Truro: 662.3774 and 1:30PM to 4:30PM) meets 3rd Thursday (7:30 PM) 867- 5007 web: www.stfx.ca/people/xpride l’Université de Moncton, Moncton: Vise à éduquer, à Positive Connections: Teleconferenced sup- AIDS Saint John, Saint John: improve quality of life for sensibiliser et à offrir des ressources dans la langue DalOUT, Halifax: LGBTQ Society at Dalhousie. 494- port groups for people living with AIDS. email: those infected & affected by HIV, reduce the spread française. email: [email protected] web: 2190 email: [email protected] web: societies.dsu.ca/ [email protected], meets every Monday Prince Edward through education 652-2437 email: [email protected]. www.umoncton.ca/unsurdix/ (Visitez le site Web ou dalout, meets every Thursday (During the academic (evening 7:00pm - 8:00pm) at by phone. No long Island (902) com web: www.aidssaintjohn.com envoyez un courriel pour en apprendre davantage au year we meet at about 7pm each Thursday night.) distance charges. For more info call 425-4882 ext East Coast Bears, Fredericton: adult men who are, sujet du travail que nous accomplissons. ) at Dalhousie University, check OUT our website or 228 or 1-800-566-2437 ext 228 or e-mail. Abegweit Rainbow Collective, Charlottetown: Serving or like, masculine, hairy men. 506-455-2856 email: UNB/STU Women’s Collective, Fredericton: Women contact us for details GLBTTQ Islanders, their friends and families. 894- Pride Cape Breton Society, Sydney: Dances and 5776 email: [email protected] web: www.arcpei.ca, [email protected] web: www.eastcoastbears. of all ages and orientations. , meets every Monday at Family Pride Camping Association (Rainbow Spirit), Social Events. Monthly dances are Adults Only! com (See webpage for schedule.) 5pm at the University Women’s Centre at the SUB meets 2nd Tuesday (of each month) at ARC Offices Halifax: FPCA plans events for GLBT families with Check website for other events. (902) 539-4627 at 144 Prince Street, 3rd floor Fredericton Lesbians and Gays, Fredericton: Oc- Woodstock GLBT Youth Advocate and Family kids of all ages. From Camping weekends to bowling web: www.pridecapebreton.com (Dances on the 2nd casional social events and Email listserv. email: OutReach, Woodstock: Books, movies, advice, di- events. email: [email protected] web: www.fpca.ca (Con- Saturday of every month. Check website for dance AIDS PEI, Charlottetown: 566-2437 email: [email protected] web: www.geocities.com/westhol- rections, contacts, and support etc. for the family. tact us if you are interested in helping out or would like theme!) at Southend Community Centre. Maps are [email protected] web: www.aidspei.com at 144 lywood/3074 328-4868 email: [email protected] to be contacted when we have events.) at our website. Prince Street Gais.es Nor Gays Inc. (GNG), Petit-Rocher (Bathurst Frontrunners Halifax, Halifax: Running/walking club. Pride Guide Publishing: publisher of community Gay PEI Mailing List, province-wide: Electronic mail- area): A bilingual volunteer association serving Newfoundland & 422-7579 email: [email protected] web: focused maps, directories, event programs and more. ing list for all GLBT, questioning and friendly, focus gay men, lesbians and bisexuals of northern New www.frontrunners.org/clubs/halifax/, meets every 902-423-6999 email: [email protected] is on PEI. email: gay-pei-owner@yahoogroups. Brunswick. email: [email protected] web: www.gngnb. Lab (709) Saturday, and every Tuesday, and every Thursday com web: groups.yahoo.com/group/gay-pei (It’s an Pride of Pictou County, New Glasgow: All GBLT in electronic list, there aren’t meetings. You can join and ca (Dances are held at GNG club every Saturday AIDS Committee of Newfoundland & Labrador, (Sat: 9:30am, Tue: 6:00 pm, Thu: 6:00pm ) at Main gates of the Halifax Public Gardens, corner of Spring Pictou County. 695-5222 web: www.PrideofPictou- start posting at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gay- night. See www.gngnb.ca for a list of upcoming St. John’s: HIV/AIDS education and support for County.ca (see web page for meeting info) events.) at 702 rue Principale, Petit-Rocher NB. Garden Road and South Park Street. pei at any time. All first posts are moderated to stop male/female/transgendered, all ages, Newfoundland spambots, otherwise, it’s an open list.) Look for rainbow flag and/or door with pink triangle and Labrador 579-8656 email: [email protected] web: GAY, LESBIAN & BISEXUAL YOUTH GROUP AT Quakers, Halifax: Quakerism emphasizes that we all at rear of parking lot. www.acnl.net Q.E.H.: Jeanie Buffet, Counsellor, at 421-6797 manifest the Divine. 429-2904 web: halifax.quaker.ca, GLBT Youth group, Charlottetown: Safe Space meets every Sunday at Library at Atlantic School of Drop-Ins. 367-3408 or toll free 1 877 380 5776 Integrity, Fredericton: Supports and encourages Conception Bay North AIDS Interest Group, Concep- Get Out, Halifax!, Halifax: Recreation activities (team Theology, Franklyn St. All very welcome. Gays and Lesbians in their spiritual lives. web: www. email: [email protected] web: youth.arcpei.ca at 144 tion Bay: Conception Bay North AIDS Interest Group activities, cycling, running, rowing - you name it) for Prince St. We have a lending library, books, movies, anglicanbeads.com/Integrity/ (Watch our website is a volunteer organization,education and prevention metro & beyond!. web: www.getouthalifax.ca at Visit Queer Play, Halifax: A Queer performing arts group in for details of 2007 planned events, (coming soon). Halifax NS. email: [email protected] magazines and a place to hang out and chat. Special 709-596-4433 email: [email protected]. and get on the email list for more info. events planned throughout the year. Membership in Integrity is not indicative of sexual ca web: www.cbnaig.org (Taylor Bldg., Carbonear Rainbow Playtime, Halifax: Food & social meetings orientation.) at St John’s Anglican Church, 59 Broad GLB CONSTITUENCY COMMITTEE (SUNS): 494- Narcotics Anonymous, Charlottetown: a fellowship of Road, P.O. Box 993, Harbour Grace, Newfoundland, 6654 at c/o the StudentsÕ Union of NS for same sex families with tots or couples considering Road, Oromocto, New Brunswick. A0A 2M0) parenthood. 461-9414 recovering drug addicts who meet regularly to help Moncton Line Dancing, Moncton: LINE DANCING Group Harrison Society, Cape Breton: Dances, So- each other stay clean. 566-9733 or 1-800-205-8402 Gay Urban Youth Zone Project, St John’s: designed to cials & Support Group for Cape Bretoners. (902)270- Red Door, The, Kentville: Youth health adolescent (Mondays & Fridays 8:00pm) at 178 Fitzroy St for all levels from beginner to advanced. No partner increase HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, and STI knowledge center counselling, for up to age 30, all ages STD test- required. No dress code. , meets every Wednesday 6969 email: [email protected] web: and awareness 579-8656 (ext. 28) email: chris@acnl. www.geocities.com/groupharrisonsociety, meets last ing. 679-1411 (Monday through Friday, 1pm to 5pm, (8:30pm sharp) at Triangles Bar, corner of St. George net web: www.acnl.net at Tommy Sexton Centre 47 Wednesday open to 6:00) at 28 Webster Court and Archibald. Saturday (of every month Admission $6.50 -$5.50 Janeway Place Pleasantville, across from the old for members- Best light and sound show around! RESPECT, Truro: Students Making Healthy Deci- Moncton Transgender Support Group, Moncton: Janeway Hospital AIDS Committee of Newfoundland Restricted 19 yrs and over) at Steel Workers Hall, sions. 902-893-6300 email: [email protected] (P.O. Transgenders, their allies, families and friends. and Labrador Sydney Box 550, Nova Scotia Agricultural College, Truro, Cont’d p 18 email: [email protected] (Meets Monthly, email for LBGT-MUN Resource Centre, St John’s: LBGT-MUN N.S. B2N 5E3) Wayves September 2007 15 Events >> Amherst call 685-3297 or email [email protected] Road, Oromocto. For more details check out Last Friday of each month to anyone who would like to join. Second Monday or www. southshorepride.ca website: www.anglicanbeads.com/Integrity Bedford United Church **New group for First and Third Tuesdays members of the Rainbow Community** You PFLAG Amherst/Sackville - in Amherst one Fourth Wednesday of each month LGB Youth Project Social Drop-in Nights. This are invited to try out a group for fellowship and month, Sackville the next. 506-536-4245 email: PFLAG Fredericton meets at 7 PM at the is an unstructured event. It’s a chance to hang out Cape Breton support of spiritually inclined members of the jhammock@ mta. ca, Sackville: 165 Main Street. Unitarian Fellowship, 874 York Street. Everyone with old friends, make some new ones, and just Every 2nd Saturday Rainbow Community! The group will gather Amherst: 12 La Planche Street. welcome. Discussion, guest speakers, support talk about whatever, 6-9pm, 25 and under, 2281 Pride Cape Breton Society hosts community on the last Friday of each month beginning First and Third Wednesdays and special events. For more information email Brunswick Street. Contact 429-5429, youthprojec dances at the Southend Community Centre in [email protected]. Confidentiality September 28, 2007 from 7:30 - 9:00 pm in the [email protected], www.youthproject.ns.ca Amherst and Area, Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Sydney; admission just $5., and open to those 19 assured. church parlour (closest door off Sullivan’s Hill). Youth Group Meeting, 7-9pm. Anyone who Second and Fourth Tuesdays yrs. of age and older. Bedford United is an Affirming Congregation LGB Youth Project 18 and under Support is GLBT or questioning their sexuality in the and located at 1200 Bedford Hwy in Bedford. Amherst, Oxford, Springhill, Pugwash and meetings. This is a structured environment, Fredericton Bar & Business Meetings will be of a casual, informal nature with with facilitators present to keep discussions on Parrsboro areas is welcome, this is a safe space Charlottetown the group determining the agenda that they’d like where anyone can come and feel safe in talking Calendar track, while at the same time helping to lead the …see Prince Edward Island the meetings to follow. Please call the church at discussion in the directions that the youth wish about their sexuality and just being themselves BOOM! NIGHTCLUB 835-8497, e-mail affirmingcongregation@bed www.boomnightclub.ca, 463-Boom! to go, as well as making sure the group guidelines without fear of ridicule or harassment. lgbyp_ fordunited.com or visit http://bedfordunited. amherst@ hotmail.com, all emails confidential. (2666) are enforced. The discussions focus on the youth Fredericton com/affirm.php for more information. present having a say, rather than the facilitators Third Thursday of each month Every Tuesday 474 Queen Street Second Sunday of each month Thursdays - Retro night - 70s, 80s, lecturing about whatever topic is being discussed, Cumberland Pride Support Group: Social Spectrum, UNB and STU’s social and support Play Group for Queer Families! 3-5pm Board 6-8pm, 2281 Brunswick Street. Contact 429- 90s... All dance mixes from a different and support group for gay, lesbian, bisexual, group for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, Room (Play Room) at Needham Community 5429, [email protected], www. decade each week. Open 4-1. transgender and transsexual individuals in queer, questioning, etc. students. As a group, our Recreation Centre, 3372 Devonshire St (north youthproject.ns.ca Amherst, Nova Scotia. Meets the third Thursday Fridays and Saturdays - Happy hour aim is to create a safe and supportive space for end Halifax, near intersection of Duffus & First and Third Sundays of each month. Contact information: Gerard 4-9, All-extended-mix mainstream club those who are questioning or discovering their Novalea, bus routes 7 & 9) Bring a snack for your BLT-WOMYN OF HALIFAX DISCUSSION Veldhoven at 902-660-5004 or E-mail: gaylords_ sexuality, as well as providing a social outlet for music 9-2. child(ren). We will be collecting money from each [email protected] GROUP! This is a Bi-sexual, Lesbian, members of the campus LGBTQ community. Sundays - New Brunswick’s one and family to cover the cost of the room rental, likely Transgendered womyn’s Only! ~Free Group, NO While our membership is primarily composed of only T-dance! All-anthem dance music, $2-4 per week. For info, call 422-8780 or email Dues, NO Fee’s~ MEETINGS are every second Annapolis Valley UNB and STU students, everyone is welcome to 4-7. [email protected] SUNDAY. @6pm - 7:30pm(Please remember attend our meetings. 7 pm, Top floor of SUB 203 First and Third Mondays Every Thursday when appling to this group, send full name and a (in the Sexuality Centre, across from the Ballroom) Young people’s group, at Safe Harbour, at 7 pm, contact number or call sue at 499-0335, everthing Valley Gay Men’s Coffee House Meets every Everyone is welcome! For more information please Bloomfield Centre 2786 Agricola Street, Suite is kept PRIVATE!) LOCATION: DALHOUSIE Thursday evening from 7-9pm and also on the contact us at [email protected] Halifax 108. The group watches an LGBT movie with WOMEN’S CENTRE 6286 South Street (Beside first Saturday of every month hosts a Gay/Lesbian Every Wednesday Every Sunday some spiritual or other worthwhile value, eats Dalplex Driveway) HOW TO JOIN THIS dance for ages 19 and up from 9pm-1am. If you UNB/STU Women’s Collective, at the University Bedford United Church. 1200 Bedford Highway, some pizza and discusses the movie. Everyone age GROUP: Come to a discussion night or send us need m ore information concerning themes or Women’s Centre in the SUB, 5pm. Contact Bedford. We are an Affirming Congregation and 30 and under is welcome. your e-mail address or call a moderator (Sue @ other events that may take place call 902-765- Lyndsey Gallant at [email protected] or call 450- welcome everyone. Services at 9 am (Casual & First and Third Tuesdays 499-0335). If you have any questions. A discussion 2821 or email [email protected] 3870. Contemporary) and 11 am (Quieter & More Formerly known as the Queer/Straight Allance, group for Bi-sexual, Lesbian, Transgendered Every Sunday Third Sunday of each month Reverent in tone) Starting June 24-Sept. 9, one 10 Mount Pride in the GLBTQ group at Mount women, who will meet to have open discussions, Valley Girls is a social group for lesbians in the GLB ANGLICANS AND FRIENDS Integrity am service. For more info, call 835-8497. Saint Vincent University. We are an active and in a positive environment.To discuss topics Annapolis Valley. Coffee Group on Sundays. is a non profit organization of Gay and Lesbian Every Sunday online group that meets bi-weekly on tuesdays concerning ourselves and our community. This is For more information e-mail the grou at Valley_ Anglicans and Friends. Membership in Integrity Safe Harbour Metropolitan Community Church, at 12 noon in the diversity center in Roseria on a bi-weekly meeting on Sundays. http://ca.groups. [email protected]. is not indicative of sexual orientation. Integrity Halifax: A Christian Church with an affirming campus, and online at mountpride@yahoogroups. yahoo.com/group/blt-womynofhalifax/ or Fredericton was formed in October 2004 and ministry to the GBLT community. Everyone is com. Possible events that are being planned for [email protected] supports and encourages Gay Men and Lesbians welcome!. 453-9249 email: safeharbour@eastlink. the winter semester include sexuality awareness First and Third Wednesdays Bridgewater in their spiritual lives. A Eucharist followed by a ca web: safeharbourmcc.com, meets at 11 am week, movies nights, potlucks, guest speakers, and LGB Youth Project Movie Night, 25 and under, Third Saturday of each month coffee hour discussion is held at 4:00 PM on the at 2786 Agricola St. Bloomfield Centre, Suite many more. There are always spontanious meals starting at 7pm. 2281 Brunswick Street. Contact Wileville Dance. Smoke free. For more details third Sunday of each month at St. John’s, 58 Broad #108 and events that are always fun. This group is open 429-5429, [email protected], 16 September 2007 Wayves << Events >> www.youthproject.ns.ca with attentive supervision from Midori. Dress & of the reasons women have difficulty with orgasm, friends! 7-9 pm, 2281 Brunswick St. CAESAR TIME on the MOOSE DECK Second and Fourth Wednesdays Supplies: Wear comfortable clothing that allows offer suggestions around play to enhance sexual Tuesday - Discussion Group (ages 18 and under) Noon Till Close! freedom of movement. Bring a large towel or feelings, as well as covering important anatomical LGB Youth Project ages 18-25 Support meetings. A structured environment with facilitators present yoga mat if you would like to use the floor. And, information. Discussion includes g-spot, clitoris, This is a structured environment, with facilitators to keep discussion on track, while at the same time of course, bring rope—the more, the merrier! and tips to use both alone and with a partner. 2 Mollyz DINER & Bar present to keep discussions on track, while at the helping to lead discussion in the direction that the Licensed Caterer (Suggested minimum: 3 or 4 pieces of 20, 25, or hours @ 6:30pm. for everyone $20.00 (limited same time helping to lead the discussion in the youth wish to go. The discussions focus on what “Mollyz Hitz the Spot” HFX-The Daily 30 foot lengths. If the rope is for a smaller person, income $10.00) for more info or to register contact directions that the youth wish to go, as well as the youth present have to say, rather than the bring the shorter lengths. For a larger person, bring venus envy at 422 0004 News making sure the group guidelines are enforced. facilitators lecturing about whatever topic is being the longer lengths.) No experience necessary. 2.5 In the Heart of Halifax’s Gay Village The discussions focus on the youth present having October 11 discussed. 6-8 pm, 2281 Brunswick St. hours @ 7:00pm. for everyone $25.00 (limited 2104 Gottingen St, a say, rather than the facilitators lecturing about DalOUT celebrates National Coming Out Day Wednesday - Discussion Group (ages 18-25) A income $15.00) for more info or to register contact BOOK YOUR PRIVATE PARTY NOW! whatever topic is being discussed, 7-9pm, 2281 hosting their second annual “Come Out At the structured environment with facilitators present venus envy at 422 0004 902-405-3376 Brunswick Street. Contact 429-5429, youthprojec Grawood” night at the Grawood Bar and Lounge to keep discussion on track, while at the same time Check Out our New WEBSITE: www. [email protected], www.youthproject.ns.ca Sept 12 in the Dalhousie Student Union Building (6136 helping to lead discussion in the direction that the MollyzDiner.ca Second Wednesday of each month Venus Envy Event: Getting What You Want in University Ave.) Similar in format to last year’s youth wish to go. The discussions focus on what SM with Midori. Not sure how to start your first highly successful event, the night will feature the youth present have to say, rather than the FREE Internet / WiFi 7 DAYS A WEEK Spirituality for Lesbians, 7:30-9PM. We seek to SM scene? Have you ever come out of an SM a drag show, music by a live DJ, and some facilitators lecturing about whatever topic is being Kitchen Hours deepen our relationship with God, knowing that experience feeling unfulfilled? Why not learn how fantastic prizes. It is a guaranteed good time, so discussed. 7-9 pm, 2281 Brunswick St God loves us and calls us into life just as he has MON-WED 11am till 9pm to get what you want? This class will help both the be sure to bring your friends. The cover charge created us. Persons of every or no denomination Week 2 THUR 11am till 10pm top/bottom, dominant/submissive to experience is $3 with $1 going to the Nova Scotia AIDS are welcome. For info about the place of the Tuesday - Social Drop-in Nights (ages 25 and FRI: 11am till 11pm *BAR till 2am a fulfilling scene. No specific experience needed. Coalition. DalOUT, the LGBTQ society at next meeting call 459-2649 and leave name under) This is a facilitated but less structured SAT BRUNCH MENU - 8am till 3pm 2.5 hours @ 7:00pm. for everyone $25.00 (limited Dalhousie University, is open to all members of and number. Personal mailbox: confidentiality event. It’s a chance to hang out with old friends, - Diner till 11pm * BAR till 2am income $15.00) for more info or to register contact the community. Everyone is always welcome. assured. make some new ones, and just talk about whatever. SUN BRUNCH MENU - 8am till 3pm venus envy at 422 0004 For more information, visit http://societies.dsu. Aug 30, Sept 13, 27, Oct 11, 25 6-8 pm, 2281 Brunswick street - Diner till 10pm New LUNCHEON Sept 18 ca/dalout or e-mail [email protected]. Wednesday - LBG Youth Project Movie Night Anonymous HIV Testing, AIDS Coalition of Specials & Venus Envy Event: Going Down: A Guide to (ages 25 & under) come out for a movie & Nova Scotia 1657 Barrington St, Suite 321, 5- Daily Features Fellatio. If you’re interested in licking boys’ bits, popcorn! 7 pm, 2281 Brunswick St 8pm. 425-4882 for an appointment. Mondayz - BURGERZ & MOOSEHEAD but aren’t sure where to start or what to do once Halifax Youth Project Sept 2, 16, 30, Oct 14, 28 Week 3 Night you get going, this workshop is for you. From basic Calendar Tuesday - Guest Speaker & Discussion night Koinonia Ecumenical Church – Meaning Tuesdayz - MOLLYZ YOU PICK anatomy to tips for the advanced, this workshop Youth Project events operate in a 4-week schedule. (ages 25 & under) A new speaker every week to ‘community’. Services bi-weekly at 12:30pm at - PASTA & WINE Comboz will cover a wide range of information about To find out what week we’re operating in, please educate & spark discussion. This is a structured Halifax Feast downtown. Pastor Elaine, 876-8771 Wednesdayz - WINGS & MOOSE giving head. 2 hours @ 6:30pm. for everyone see our website or contact us! www.youthproject. environment. 7-9pm, 2281 Brunswick street or [email protected] $20.00 (limited income $10.00) for more info or ns.ca, [email protected], 429- Wednesday - Activity night (ages 25 & under) A Draught Sept 11 to register contact venus envy at 422 0004 5429 chance to have fun and perhaps learn something Thursdayz - All U Can Eat Mussel & Venus Envy Event: Body harnesses are fantastic Sept 25 Week 1 new. Activities will be on this night lasting two MOOSE Night! for creating beautiful, effective, and sexy bondage Venus Envy Event: I’m Coming! A Guide to Monday - Transgender Discussion Group: A and a half months. First activity class IMPROV FISHY Fridayz - Mollyz BEER for all types of bodies and many different sorts Women’ s Orgasm. Some women never experience structured environment with facilitators present classes. 6-8pm, 2281 Brunswick St BATTERED Fish & Chips & MOOSE of scenes. You can use a harness for very secure orgasm, some can have orgasms once in awhile, or to keep discussion on track, while at the same time Week 4 Draught rigging. Or you can make a pretty rope outfit. on their own, or never on their own, or ... you get helping to lead discussion in the direction that the Tuesday - Social Drop-in Themed Nights (ages 25 Saturday & Sunday - BRUNCH Menu Create intense harnesses for pain sluts. How the picture. The female orgasm can sometimes be youth wish to go. The discussions focus on what and under) This is a facilitated but less structured 8am till 3pm about sensual breast bondage? Midori will show rather elusive, and that can be okay, but it can also trans youth have to say, rather than the facilitators event with a fun & exciting theme. It’s a chance you at least 6 different varieties of body harnesses. be very frustrating. This session will look at some lecturing about whatever topic is being discussed. to hang out with old friends, make some new You can choose the ones you want to practice REFLECTIONS A place to talk about trans issues and make new ones, and just talk about whatever. 6-8 pm, 2281 5184 Sackville Street Brunswick street (902) 422-2957, toll free (877)422-2957 Wednesday - LBG Youth Project Movie Night Fax (902) 422-2970 (ages 25 & under) come out for a movie & mail@reflectionscabaret.com popcorn! 7 pm, 2281 Brunswick St www.reflectionscabaret.com Open 7 days a week, Mon-Sat 1pm Halifax Bar & Business to 4am, Sun 4pm to 4am, Manager: Calendar Stephen Filek BLUE MOON BISTRO/BACK BAR 2099B Gottingen St., Halifax, (902) SEADOG’S SAUNA & SPA “The HOLE”, Now BIGGER AND 446-3644 DEEPER! 5 pm-2 am, 7 days a week VOTED 4th Top Cruising Spots in the Sunday – August 5th 2007 Cousin WORLD by Squirt.com Cletus strives to entertain the masses. BAR OPEN TILL 2AM! All proceeds will be raised from the COME for the MEN, Stay for the BEER! BBQ and silver collection goes to local 2199 Gottingen Street chosen charities. Hours: Mon-Thu 4pm-1am & 24 Hour August 12th 2007 is the 7th annual Week Ends We accept VISA, M/C & Studio X Le Noir Community Debit Achievement Awards. Check bar for In & Out Privileges with 12 or 24 Hour further details on www.imperialcourtns. Stays com 902-444-3647 - www.SeaDogs.ca Monday – August 13th 2007 Ms. Vicki In the HEART of Halifax’s Gay Village and friends “Walk for Life”. $3 cover Mondays - Student Night, FREE and ISCANS BBQ on the patio. Lockers with Valid Student I.D. Tuesdays and Thursdays are Karaoke Tuesdays - TOONIE NIGHT - $2 Bucks with DJ Special Tee. Check out our OFF Lockers, Drink Specials till Close! specials. Wednesdays - HUMP NIGHT - 1/2 Wednesdays – Blue Moon Swinging price pass for your next visit Dancers. Come learn how to swing Thursdays - It’s NAKED Night! Towels dance by cute willing instructors. No Optional cover. Fridays - Black Out in “The HOLE” Fridays and Saturdays – The Blue SAT. & SUN. - Early Bird Special 6am Moon presents special House DJ’s. till Noon, Rooms $15 & Lockers $7.50 Check bar for further details. & Drink Specials till 6PM! MENZ BAR Sundayz - FREE 30 Minute Cruiseline 2104 Gottingen St, Pass from 6pm till Close Halifax’s Gay Village 902-446-6969 www.MENZBAR.ca FREE INTERNET & WI-FI 7 DAYS A Moncton WEEK Every Thursday CHECK OUT OUR NEW 2007 MENU! LGBT AND FRIENDS VOLLEY BALL, resumes The PARTZ Dept with Pool Table & September 13th! École carrefour de l’acadie gym. MOOSE DECK on Level III No experience required. Info : Rodge 383-1410 August LINE UP or Oscar 855-1328. $5.00 / player includes Mondayz 5pm-9pm - BEER, refreshments. BURGERS Special...! Ask our Tous les jeudis Bartenders for details! VOLLEY BALL POUR LGBT et AMI-E-S, Wednesdayz 9:30pm -1:30pm Karaoke recommence 13 septembre. École carrefour de with Bear777 - Sing the Mystery Song l’acadie. Aucune experience requise. Infos : Rodge & Win up to $300! 383-1410 ou Oscar 855-1328. $5.00 / joueur Fridayz 5pm-10pm TGIF (Thank God (rafraîchissements inclus) I’m Fabulous) COCKTAIL Party - U Third Monday of each month Want It, We’ll Shake IT! PFLAG Moncton has monthly support meeting Fridayz & Saturdayz DANCE PARTIES from 7:30-9:30 in room 302 of the Adrien-J.- with our House DJ’s from 10pm-2am Cormier bldg at U de M campus. Everyone is Sundayz: BRUNCH 8am-3pm & welcome at our meetings. Wayves September 2007 17 << Events comments Second and Fourth Mondays Fridays: No cover, open turntables 895-0931 or email [email protected] ask questions you forgot to ask the doctor or & suggestions to thegirls@nb. Saturdays: $5 cover after 10 PM nurse and you can think aloud to help you make SAFE SPACES MEETING, 7pm. Support group sympatico.ca your decisions. There is growing evidence that for GLB youth, 14-25. For more info, 869-6224 Sundays: No cover, free pool Our colour parties are back – watch your participation in a group of people who have or [email protected] Your birthday: no cover, one free drink, WAYVES DATES! for the blue party, coming up June 2. gone through the processes you are now facing is Last Saturday just show your ID! Check out the front of the magazine for Wayves Check our website for upcoming Colour deadlines and meeting dates -- all are welcome! mentally beneficial and may well contribute to Moncton Leather Chapter Leather Nights at Party dates. your recovery from prostate cancer interventions. Triangles! With the interest and number of people We are an easy-going informal group of 12 men, that have started wearing Leather in Moncton, Wileville some of whom bring their spouses/partners it only seems natural to have a monthly Leather St. John’s – LGBT-MUN Every Friday ...see Bridgewater to our monthly meetings. Know that you are Night so that any man or woman can wear their truly welcome to join us and if you need more Petit-Rocher Coffee House: Every Friday, 12-2 (LBGT Office, Leather and know that they will not be alone in information please get in touch with me by e Aug 31 – Sept 3 6th Floor UC, 6002) Every Friday we invite doing so when they go to Triangles. Wolfville mail [email protected] or by phone 542 Gais.es Nor Gays (GNG) Pride Weekend, anyone and everyone to come to LBGT and enjoy Sept 23 6125. Our correspondence address is the same including the Ms and Mr Atlantic Canada Leather a cup of Coffee or Tea (regular or herbal) with us Every Second Tuesday AIDS Walk for Life Moncton. Funds raised by as my home address: 210 Main Street, Wolfville at 6pm Sunday. For information and applications (members, non-members, etc). It’s a great chance Kings County Prostate Cancer Support Group, individuals or teams will be used to provide HIV NS B4P 1C4. forms contact wayne richard, waydo7@hotmail. to vent, meet some new people, etc. Our office is 7-9 pm in the East Kings Memorial Public Health prevention programs and services is Southeast Centre on Earnscliffe Ave in Wolfville. You can New Brunswick. For further information or to com, 506 388 1755 or your local watering hole. located in UC-6022. register, contact Judy at SIDA/AIDS Moncton The show will also includes a bbq, entertainment, Every Second Friday at (506) 859-9616 or e-mail sidaidsm@sida- prize draws and a victory party. Venture on up General Meeting every second week. They take aidsmoncton.com for the event, the day, the night or better still place at UC-6022 at 11:00am. the weekend , check out www.gngnb.ca for more information. Moncton Bar & Business St. John’s Bar & Business Calendar Sackville Calendar TRIANGLES Second Monday Zone 216 216 Water St, 754-2492 234 St. George St, open Tues-Sun PFLAG Sackville / Amherst - in Sackville one 8pm-2am month, Amherst the next. 506-536-4245 email: http://www.hello.to/zone216 Tuesday & Wednesday: Free Pool, jhammock@ mta. ca, Sackville: 165 Main Street. Winter Hours Beer / Bar Shots / Shooters $3 all night Amherst: 12 La Planche Street. Open Fri&Sat Nights 10pm-late Wednesday: Learn to Line Dance – no No cover before 12 Friday charge! No Cover before 11 Saturday Thursday: Karaoke Mystery Song - $25 Saint John added each week until the correct song Third Saturday is picked! Beer / Bar Shots $3 until Gay Men’s Supper Club, 220 Germain St. midnight , Shooters $2.75 all night http://www.portcityrainbowpride.com/ for more Sydney Friday & Saturday: Dance Music with information. ...see Cape Breton DJ daBoss, Summer Special Beer with Shooter $4 11pm-midnight Saint John Bar & Business Truro Sunday: Request all your favourite Every Wednesday songs with DJ daBoss, Beer / Bar Calendar Truro Pride: GLBT support group in Colchester Shots / Shooters $3 all night CLUB MONTREAL Wednesdays: No cover, free pool County, Nova Scotia. (Coffee hour at the Fair Check out our monthly events page at Trade Café on 535 Prince Street in Truro, every Thursdays: No cover, karaoke with www.trianglesbar.com, and send Wednesday evening at 6:00pm. For information prizes call Northern AIDS Connection Society at 902- 18 September 2007 Wayves

classifieds Cont’d from Synagogue, p. 7 How sad it is that there are still d e s i g n to assist with pregnancy. Open to s p i r i t u a l queer men and women who feel co-parenting. Must be willing to speaking publicly on homosexu- that they must make a choice be- relocate or travel. Serious inquiries ality, she changed her order and tween their faith and their natural only please. Respond in confidence CALLING ALL ANGLICANS An to: [email protected] Oct07 Integrity chapter has been formed joined the Sisters of Loretto, who sexual feelings. This is a political in Nova Scotia. Call George 902-757- support her work and advocacy rather than spiritual issue, a fight furnishings 1706. For Propitiation (traditionalist Anglicans) call Peter 416-487-7406 on behalf of the queer community. for power, not a struggle over faith. (evenings). When asked how she can be a good Those religious groups who remain LESBIANS, GAY MEN, BISEXUALS Catholic and yet defy the orders the most adamantly opposed to will find themselves welcome by Quakers, who recognize that there is of her church, she replied that she acceptance of homosexuals as part “that of God in every person.” Call makes a clear distinction between of the natural diversity of human (902) 429-2904 for more info. the church—which for her means beings, are also politically the right s u p p o r t all the people of the Catholic wing conservatives—like those (902) caucoin faith—and the church hierarchy. Americans who believe any criti- 423-6999 @eastlink.ca As Cantor Isenberg might say, she cism of George W. Bush is a direct HALIFAX RAINBOW SPEAKERS: Project Proud Lesbian, bisexual, gay, follows the principles of her faith, attack on the United States. transgendered, two-spirited and queer not the rules of its leaders. They make religious virtues g r o u p s volunteers wanted to participate in I remembered, too, the United out of denial and repression, just public education workshops. No special knowledge or experience Church minister who officiated at as they confuse the letter of the MARITIME GAY WOMEN starting necessary–training, practice and the wedding of two women friends law with its spirit. They judge group in Moncton to make friends. support provided. Let your rainbow of mine and who added so much to their fellow humans according to Hope to meet people who ski, play m a s s a g e shine! Ramona 902-494-6662, cards, like nature, Maritime travel, [email protected] the joyful celebration of love and old rigid rules, rather than finding golf, whatever you’re interested in. If you’re alone, or would like to meet HALIFAX TRANSGUYS is a connection—clearly someone who joy in the founding principles of new people, email makefriends@ support group for transmen at any followed the embracing spirit of all faiths: compassion, acceptance mail.com point in transition, locally and in Atlantic Canada. Please write: his religion rather than the thou and love. Men’s Reading Group meets regularly halifaxtransguys @yahoo.groups. shalt nots. in Halifax. Come meet interesting ca for further info on our upcoming people and discuss gay literature. meetings and social events. Check our webpage at www.menread. 50megs.com. Email menread@gay. HOW TO PLACE ADS com or contact 454-9111 for more CLASSIFIEDS: 25 words for $9, information. 25 more for $6, 10% off if you run family the ad 3+ issues. Groups & Services

South Shore lesbian couple looking EVENTS CALENDAR, GROUPS & Cont’d from p. 14 for male couple or single gay male SERVICES: free. All paying ads must be pre-paid. PEI Pride, Charlottetown: Organizing The Island [email protected] (please email for upcomming Send to [email protected] Pride Festival July 7th -14th, 2007. (902) 388-0969 events and location information) at PRIZMS expose or Wayves, P.O. Box 34090 Scotia email: [email protected] web: www.peipride.com yourself to the high energy- highly social atmosphere. Square, Halifax, NS, B3J 3S1. (See webpage for meetings www.peipride.com) “PRIZMS - Dance in the Light” Email for upcomming See www.wayves.ca for insertion at 286 Fitzroy Street, Charlottetown, PE or phone events dates and places deadlines and graphical advertisement (902) 388-0969 UPEI Rainbow Alliance, Charlottetown: Fellowship, rates. PFLAG Canada - PEI, Island wide: Providing support, information, social events, awareness-raising. All wel- education and advocacy for GLBT persons, their come. email: [email protected] web: upeira.ca/index. Deadlines: page 2! (hint: always the families and friends in PEI. 902-887-3620 email: php at see UPEI Women’s Centre for more info first Friday of the month!) [email protected] web: www.pflagcanada.ca, meets 3rd Tuesday at Ferry Road Centre, 24 Ferry Road, Cornwall, PE PRIZMS, Charlottetown: PEI’s first all dance party! Catering to the gay and lesbian community. email: Wayves September 2007 19 Opinion / Letters

Religious Zealots like Mayor Bill Mills by Jack Halifax ity, I searched beyond logic and other in resisting temptation, and Thank God, I was never sub- done it. I chuckle to myself when “Read Romans, chapter one.” I searched my soul. There was a then there is the non-denomina- jected to that type of therapy. And I think of it as the strangest group The infamous statement of Truro time when I looked to the bible for tional HA-FS or Homosexuals while I resisted the reprogramming, of self-loathing fuck-buddies I’ve mayor Bill Mills rings in my head. I guidance as to whether or not being Anonymous which has a chapter like the penguins, I certainly got a ever known. have to admit I no longer own a bi- gay was wrong or right. And when in Yarmouth. good mind fucking that has taken While I don’t read the bible ble. If I did I would probably look I tell people that I went through a There are even psychiatrists years to heal. I have come to the (Sorry Bill) or affiliate with any it up out of curiosity, but that’s sexuality-reprogramming program who used aversion therapy for the point where I don’t mind talking particular religious faith, my ex- neither the point nor important as a teenager—they’re usually hor- purpose of sexuality reprogram- about it and I really appreciated perience has allowed me to evolve to me at all. I was raised reading rified. Some are amazed that such ming in the 70’s that are still on one lesbian friend who said, “thank into a confident spiritual gay man. the bible and can quote it word programs exist. staff at Canadian universities. goodness you’re still with us.” I can I have been able, despite the efforts for word in defense of just about Yes, there were and still are While it is now a discredited even laugh about the absurdity of of religious zealots like Bill, to anything from why not to litter to ministries for homosexuals who treatment for people—it included it. For example, the two co-leaders reconcile my faith in God and my improvements of the social-welfare want to “choose” to leave the electroshock, or nausea-inducing of the group I was in slept with faith in myself. I have, however, system. But I don’t, in defense of gay “lifestyle.” The Evangelicals drugs used during pornographic each other, and then confessed and lost faith in people who use the any of my opinions—I use logic have groups called Desert Stream slide shows—animal behaviourists repented the dirty deed later. I too bible to prop up poorly defended and reason (critical thinking skills and Living Waters, the Mormons tried using the shock type aversion must confess that I slept with a few statements or to justify hate or learned in university). have a group called Evergreen, therapy to reprogram three “gay” young men in the group. Being an mistreatment of any of God’s And in my own long quest to the Catholics even have a group penguins in a German zoo as re- especially tough case, I never really children. become secure in my own sexual- for Priests who can support each cently as 2005 (call the SPCA!). felt bad about myself for having

Open Letter To Truro Mayor Bill Mills An open letter to His Worship, or attack. Twenty-five percent danger of being quickly forgotten. long-reaching. Hopefully, Truro’s reasonable as a free and accepting Mayor W. R. Mills and Members of Truro’s families are GLBTI. Trans people and their families citizens will show the Maritimes society for all Truro citizens. of Truro Town Council: Many have experienced the loss of who felt safe last week are now the that they are bigger than the Coun- Sincerely, Denise Holliday Like fog in winter, homopho- loved ones who killed themselves center of attention; gay and lesbian cil and stand for what is right and bia and transphobia often appear, or moved far away because of the families are once more pointed out seemingly without warning and in promotion of homophobia and and pointed at for what they are some of the most treacherous com- transphobia. instead of who they are. binations. Truro has experienced The flying of the Rainbow flag is The Rainbow flag is not about such a thing recently. Possibly the a reminder of those who died with- promoting a so-called gay lifestyle, thickest wall of homophobic fog to out hope, and a call to us and to it is about understanding sexual and come off the Fundy in many years the public in general to recognize gender diversity and celebrating has covered Truro as the mayor of that we all have a right to personal acceptance. In Canada there must Truro failed in his official capacity respect and safety. The mayor’s be no way for one group/person’s to separate Church and State. The actions have called into question beliefs to be used to create a society wording of his recent flag banning Truro’s reputation as a compas- in which 25% of Canadians have announcement created a chill that sionate and accepting community. to feel that they or their family will be felt across Canada in every His action will continue to create members are less than acceptable community. disharmony and social unrest, as as citizens. Pride is about acceptance and some will take his remarks as a call Homophobia and transphobia the right to live your life. Ten per- to arms and preach more hatred, as forms of hatred equal racism cent of Canadians are GLBTI, and and GLBTI will be labelled sinners or anti-Semitism. Public aware- like everyone else have the right and social outcasts. Schools and ness and education can reduce to be who they are, to be proud of educational facilities have striven it. Maritime Transgender Work- who they are, and to live life with hard to educate the public about place Solutions Project works to dignity and without public ridicule diversity, but these lessons are in eliminate barriers as well as educate politicians and community leaders on these issues. The mayor and the council need to realize that the right of free speech does not allow anyone to use an official office to spread hatred and propaganda against 25% of a population they Last Month’s question: are sworn to serve. The council’s In the last Wayves issue we asked you readers “Is there a need actions have been short-sighted and for a LGBT Community Centre in your area?” The responses were overall positive: 14 readers voted Yes, three were not sure and four said No. The general consensus was that a community centre is needed as a drop-in centre “where...people can go and feel comfortable,” as “a safe and welcoming place for all.” Special acknowledgement went to youth who are struggling to come to terms with their sexual orienta- tion; a community centre could facilitate their search for identity and coming-out process, with those who have already gone through this process providing mentorship. Other readers thought more in a networking way, where a com- munity centre could be used as a meeting space for groups within the community, to educate about LGBT issues and HIV/AIDS, and to provide legal services. The most passionate response sees the community centre as a chance to bring the various groups of our community closer together, and that the whole idea of a community centre is “long overdue.” The only comment that came with a No response displays worries that a community centre might end up being run by the wrong people, “who...will always make it what THEY want rather than what other people want in the community.” This Month’s question: This time, we would like to know your opinion on the happenings during Truro Pride: Should an elected official (such as the Mayor of Truro) be allowed to selectively govern, based on his own conviction?