7 HARD TRUTHS THE LGBT COMMUNITY MUST 3 ADDRESS IN THE WAKE OF THE ORLANDO MASSACRE LARGE TURN OUT FOR 'WE ARE ORLANDO' VIGILS

NATIONAL HIV TESTING DAY JUNE 27: TAKE THE TEST !

'GIRLS' CREATOR ON RECOGNIZING ‘SEEMINGLY MUNDANE’ LGBT ISSUES & THE INFLUENCE OF HER SISTER’S QUEERNESS

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM JUNE 23, 2016 | VOL. 2425 | FREE

COMMUNITY THEATER Slipstream’s ‘Midsummer,’ Set in a Gay Bar, Re-Thinks and Re-Tools after Orlando

NEWS 4 New Employer Resource to Help End Transgender Employment Discrimination 5 Goal: 100 for National HIV Testing Day 6 Large Gathering at Affirmations Honors Lives Lost in Orlando 8 Older Adult Summit Looks at Challenges, Affirmations Community Center Vigil Draws Intergenerational Solutions Over 700 people 8 National 2015 Hate Crime Report Shows Significant Disparities See page 6 See page 16 10 Orlando: Michigan responds 13 Aftershocks of Orlando: Is GOP in ‘Solidarity’ with LGBT Community or Squirming Over Trump’s Embrace? TALKING HIV CREEP OF THE WEEK 16 Slipstream’s ‘Midsummer,’ Set in a Gay Bar, Re- Thinks and Re-Tools 17 In Wake of Orlando Massacre, LGBT Venues Ramp Up Security OPINION 10 Parting Glances 10 Viewpoint: On Orlando by David Furnish 11 Positive Thoughts: Good Morning Vietnam 11 Creep of the Week: Donald Trump 12 Frivolist: 7 Hard Truths the LGBT Community Must Address in the Wake of the Orlando LIFE 18 Lena Dunham Man’s Up Please consider making a donation Good Morning Vietnam Trump and the 20 Ann Arbor Art Fair Brings New Dates, Artists of any size to the family and victims. 22 Happenings LGBTs 23 Hear Me Out: The Healing Power of Beyoncé’s Follow links at www.weareorlando.org See page 11 See page 11 ‘Lemonade 24 Classifieds

VOL. 2425 • JUNE 23, 2016 EDITORIAL CREATIVE ADVERTISING & SALES ONLINE AT ISSUE 970 Editor in Chief Webmaster & MIS Director Director of Sales Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 12 Kevin Bryant, [email protected] Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 22 “Between The Lines Newspaper” PRIDE SOURCE MEDIA GROUP [email protected] [email protected] 20222 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48152 Contributing Writers Entertainment Editor Sales Representatives Phone 734.293.7200 Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Follow us @YourBTL Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 24 Emell Derra Adolphus, Todd Heywood, Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 13 PUBLISHERS [email protected] Jason Michael, Kate Opalewski, [email protected] Email your op–eds to Gwendolyn Ann Smith, Amy Lynn Smith, Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson Assistant Editor Donelle Kremke, 734.293.7200 x 16 [email protected] Christopher J. Treacy MEMBER OF Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] [email protected] Cartoonists Sign up online to receive our E–Digest Michigan Press Assoication Calendar Editor National Advertising Representative Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau National Gay Media Association Kate Opalewski, [email protected] Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 National Gay & Lesbian Chamber Contributing Photographers Staff Writers Q Syndicate Andrew Potter Our rate cards are available online. All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and may not AJ Trager, [email protected] be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many fine advertisers, Alexander Godin but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. Copyright 2016 Pride Source Media Group www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 3 NEWS BRIEFS Equality Michigan Gets New Brand DETROIT – As part of LGBTQ Pride increase awareness of EQMI’s victim services Month, Equality Michigan is rolling out work and encourage more survivors to report its new logo and materials to the public, the bias, discrimination, harassment and including an updated brochure, a victim violence they experience, including victims services info/linkage card and new websites of intimate partner violence. for both the Equality Michigan (c3) and As part of its commitment to transparency, Equality Michigan Action Network (c4) EQMI plans to release an overview of its websites. work, both ongoing and achieved, during Some of these items were formally released the first six months of this year and invites at Motor City Pride including the new logo, viewers to share thoughts about what EQMI a brochure and a victims services card. The could be doing better as the organization organization will launch the new website and evolves to serve the community and meet the a new poster campaign later this month. Both political realities faced in the state. were crafted by Change Media, a Michigan- Visit www.equalitymichigan.org for more based design firm, and are designed to information. New Employer Resource to Help End Transgender Employment Discrimination WASHINGTON- On June 6 the National Rights. “Yet many times employers that want LGBTQ Task Force and the District of to create welcoming environments are unsure Columbia Office of Human Rights published of how best to do that. We believe this best a first-of-its-kind resource to help eliminate practices guide will be an important starting workplace discrimination against transgender place for those employers that want to build and gender non-conforming people. The guide, transgender-inclusive workplaces.” titled “Valuing Transgender Applicants and Currently, 19 states and the District Employees,” provides in-depth best practices of Columbia have explicit workplace intended to help employers across the nation nondiscrimination protections based on create a genuinely inclusive and welcoming gender identity and expression. Among the workplace environment for transgender people. most progressive and comprehensive non- “Everyone, including transgender people, discrimination laws that include gender deserve a fair chance at a good paying job identity or expression is D.C.’s Human Rights and the ability to provide for themselves Act (HRA). and their families,” said Victoria Rodriguez- Download or read the entire resource at Roldan, Trans/Gender Nonconforming Justice Project director, National LGBTQ Task www.thetaskforce.org/valuing-transgender- Force. “Transgender people face formidable applicants-employees. discrimination and harassment in the workplace. This new resource provides vital recommendations for employers and human resource specialists looking to ensure that transgender people are treated with dignity and respect in the workplace.” In the U.S., 90 percent of transgender people report experiencing harassment, discrimination and mistreatment in the workplace, according to the 2011 National Transgender Discrimination Survey report. In 2015, the D.C. Office of Human Rights report “Qualified and Transgender” revealed that 48 percent of employers surveyed appeared to prefer at least one less-qualified applicant perceived as cisgender over a more-qualified applicant perceived as transgender. “While many jurisdictions across the nation do not have explicit protections for transgender workers, in the District of Columbia we are fortunate to have a strong law that prohibits employment discrimination against transgender people,” said Monica Palacio, director of the D.C. Office of Human

4 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com Goal: 100 for National HIV Testing Day

BY TODD HEYWOOD to Wert. Riley said his agency has run into roadblocks in locating physicians willing to The CDC estimates that the lifetime risk write prescriptions for the drug. that a black man who has sex with men will “It’s one of the biggest issues,” he said. contract HIV is 1 in 2. Latino men who have “In Ingham county there are not too many sex with men have a lifetime risk of 1 in 4. locations willing to prescribe PrEP.” And recently, a study from Emory University He said one of the biggest issued in the found the men who have sex with men have prescription process is a lack of “culturally a rate of HIV infection 57.5 percent higher competent care to the meet the needs of the than other men in the U.S. Transwomen are LGBT community and people of color.” 49 times more likely than any other group of Brown Clarke is not the only city women in the world to be infected with HIV. councilmember participating in the testing “It’s important to recognize that there is a day events. Jody Washington, whose ward health crisis, and it is a crisis,” said Judi Brown covers the locations of the bars, will be there Clarke, president of Lansing City Council and as well. She declined to comment, other than a featured emcee for a PrEP panel planned on to note that she will be there to “help end the June 25 at Spiral nightclub. “We all have a role stigma.” She sponsored a resolution last week to play in ending this epidemic.” honoring National HIV Testing Day. It passed AIDS Service Organizations and health unanimously by the City Council. departments across the state and the nation are gearing up to offer free and confidential HIV testing this coming week to mark National National HIV Testing Day Event, HIV Testing Day. June 27, In Lansing In Lansing, located in Ingham county, which has the second highest HIV prevalence rate in 4 p.m. to midnight – Free confidential HIV the state, the Lansing Area AIDS Network is testing Diversity Psychological Services gearing up for events on June 25. The official 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. – PrEP Panel Discussion Testing Day is June 27. at Spiral, facilitated by Lansing City Council In Lansing the agency will offer free President Judi Brown Clarke, and featuring and confidential HIV testing at Diversity Dr. Erik Wert, medical director of the Ingham Psychological Services, an office facility County Community Health Centers. located within a block of the city’s two gay 4 p.m. to midnight – various events in bars. Old Town including Spiral and Esquire to “Our goal is to test 100 high risk individuals,” promoting testing and to raise funds for the said Dwayne Riley, prevention manager. Lansing Area AIDS Network But the agency won’t just be doing testing. For More Information email Dwayne Riley It is also hosting a panel discussion about [email protected], or 517-394-3719 Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) from 7 ext. 130 pm to 9 pm at Spiral Dance Club. The panel discussion will include individuals who are Around Michigan currently taking the medication - which is up to 99 percent effective in preventing an HIV- Several Michigan health departments and negative person from contracting the virus if community-based organizations will provide it is taken daily – as well as Dr. Erik Wert. HIV testing opportunities through mobile Wert is the medical director of the Ingham clinics, outreach bars, parks, churches and County Community Health Center and one of community-wide events now through the end the only physicians in Ingham offering PrEP of the month. Below is a list of sites throughout prescriptions. Michigan where you and your loved ones can Riley said that since January his agency has get tested for HIV. worked diligently to counsel clients who are For more information, call 800-872-AIDS HIV negative about PrEP and to refer them or visit www.michigan.gov/hivstd. See Testing, page 15 www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 5 NEWS

Islamophobia, xenophobia and“ homophobia come from the same place of hatred and exclusion. Our communities are often not separate ones but convergent ones. LGBT Arab-Americans have been marginalized on multiple levels as they are doubly vulnerable because they are both Arab and LGBT.

– Nour Sulaiman, representative from the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination” Committee of Michigan, expressed solidarity with the LGBT community.

View the Online Gallery www.pridesource.com

Affirmations Community Center was filled to overflow capacity. Attendees used cell phones to create a candle effect during the vigil. BTL photo: Charles ALexander Large Gathering at Affirmations Honors Lives Lost in Orlando

BY AJ TRAGER and I know not everybody could get in. It said. really warms my heart that there are so many Since last Sunday, conversations and news FERNDALE – On June 12 the LGBT people here today," Erspamer said. "Thank reporting surrounding the event have shifted community experienced what President you for being here as we mourn the lives lost from grief and heartbreak to Islamophobia and I literally never want to Obama has called an "act of hate" and what and those that have been injured during Latin tightening gun control laws. hear again that LGBT people in the many are calling a direct attack on the LGBT night at Pulse nightclub in Orlando. Our hearts As the investigation probes into the shooter's “ community. The massacre that took place at go out to all the friends and family touched by history and the facts surrounding the night bathroom are a threat to public safety.” Pulse, a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida this horrific act. We know their lives and our of the massacre continue to be uncovered, resulted in the murder of 49 people and the lives will never be the same again." investigators are discovering that despite injury of 53 others. It has impacted hundreds Erspamer was followed by a welcome having called 911 during the attack to pledge - Openly gay State Rep. Jeremy Moss of thousands of LGBT lives across the country. from Stringfellow and Deacon Angela Marie his allegiance to ISIS, Omar Mateen appears attended the rally. He responded to the On June 14 over 700 people gathered at Lippard from Christ The Good Shepherd to be a "typical mass shooter," rather than an massacre with this tweet that went viral. Affirmations to honor the LGBT men and church. individual radicalized by ISIS. Early reports women who were murdered and injured. It was In an impassioned speech, Rabbi Jeffrey painted Mateen as a practicing Muslim man of trying times we cannot afford to be divided," one of many vigils across the state this week, Falick of Congregation for Humanistic Arabic heritage who had been radicalized by Sulaiman said. "These deplorable actions do along with hundreds more across the country. Judaism and president of the American ISIS. However, Mateen had a history of violent not represent Islam or the views of the Muslim Michigan's largest LGBT community Humanist Association of Southeast Michigan, behavior and was not described as particularly community at large. We strongly repudiate center, Affirmations, was filled to capacity called out national and local political leaders religious by his family and ex-wife. any person or group that uses any ideology to inside, with hundreds more people gathered who, since the shooting at Pulse, have come Nour Sulaiman, representative from defend their violent actions. The shooter alone outside. Law enforcement officers were forward to show their solidarity for the LGBT the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination is responsible for this deplorable hate crime," stationed at both entrances to the center - as community. Committee of Michigan, expressed solidarity she continued. well as on the roof - to ensure safety. The He added, "When narrow-minded and with the LGBT community and criticized some "Our movement started as a peaceful room was silent, save the sounds of tears and bigoted religious leaders and politicians, who of the national dialogue. response to violence against us. And almost sniffling, as faith, community and political for years have demonized and dehumanized "Islamophobia, xenophobia and homophobia 50 years later, here we still are being peaceful leaders spoke at the vigil honoring the victims. our community for the way we love and the come from the same place of hatred and in the face of violence against us," Stephanie Affirmations Executive Director, Susan way we live, now take their victory laps on exclusion. Our communities are often not White, executive director of Equality Michigan Erspamer and Rev. Dr. Roland Stringfellow, the bodies of our dead while they demonize separate ones but convergent ones. LGBT said. senior pastor at the Metropolitan Community and stigmatize another group of people, they Arab-Americans have been marginalized on Despite years of lobbying, the Michigan Church of Detroit, opened up the vigil. despise all in the cynical pursuit of power. multiple levels as they are doubly vulnerable legislature has yet to amend the Elliott- "It's overwhelming seeing everyone here Power which they will then exploit," Falick because they are both Arab and LGBT. In these Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA), and

6 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com add sexual orientation and gender identity and expression to a list of protected classes that would extend protections in state housing, employment and accommodation. "Lawmakers in Lansing and around the country use words against us," White continued. "I'm frustrated when lawmakers paint us as a threat to public safety and when lawmakers in Michigan fail to pass laws in our state that send a clear signal that we are full and equal participants of this state." There is a vocal group of Michigan lawmakers actively engaged in trying to extend state protections for LGBT Michiganders. A few of those lawmakers and political leaders came out to show their solidarity with the LGBT community including Nour Sulaiman State Sen. Steve Bieda, D-Macomb County; Oakland County Clerk Lisa Brown and State Rep. Jeremy Moss, D-Southfield. Moss is one of two openly gay members of the Michigan House of Representatives. His tweet following the news of Orlando went viral and was retweeted over 79,000 times. Moss wrote, "I literally never want to hear again that LGBT people in the bathroom are a threat to public safety." White encouraged members of the audience to stand up and join Stephanie White an LGBT organization, including Equality Michigan, in fighting back against bigotry and hatred by educating the Our movement started as a public and finally amending ELCRA. peaceful response to violence against Lilianna Angel Reyes, youth program “ manager at Affirmations, shared her us. And almost 50 years later, here initial reaction to the horror, telling those gathered,"When I first heard the news, I didn't we still are being peaceful in the truly process it. I felt like I couldn't in that face of violence against us. moment. For me it was because I constantly, as a Latina trans woman, live in fear. The act of violence wasn't surprising to me. But it was – Stephanie White, executive still heartbreaking." director of Equality” Michigan Clubs have been considered essentially safe spaces for LGBT individuals for years, although they have historically seen their so important now that we practice self-care." share of violence. In the week since the Pulse Others in attendance included the plaintiff attack, some news sources recalled the 1973 couple from Michigan's legal case that arson attack on a New Orleans gay bar that left fought against the state's same-sex marriage 32 patrons dead - an event that went largely ban, Jayne and April DeBoer-Rowse and unreported at the time and a crime that has their five children, as well as Dave Coulter, never been solved. mayor of Ferndale; a representative from Reflecting on the shooting at Pulse, Reyes Oakland County Prosecutor; a representative reminded people of the importance of safe from the Oakland County Treasurer's spaces and said Affirmations will serve as a office; the Michigan Muslim Council and safe space for all those who need it. Barbara McQuade, the U.S. Attorney for the "In a space where we were to be safe. In Eastern District of Michigan. In addition to a month that we are supposed to be proud. Affirmations, community partners included We are taken out. I say we because 'We are ACLU of Michigan, BTL, Black and White Orlando.' It could've been any one of us," she Men Together, EQMI, Ferndale Pride, Gender reflected. "It could've been Gigis, Pronto, Identity Network Alliance, PFLAG Detroit, The Woodward, Menjos, our families could Ruth Ellis Center, Stand With Trans and Trans be the ones mourning right now. I think it's Sistas of Color. www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 7 NEWS National 2015 Hate LGBT Older Adult Summit Looks at Crime Report Shows Significant Disparities Challenges, Intergenerational Solutions BY TODD HEYWOOD BY AJ TRAGER

The 2015 Hate Crime Report from the National DETROIT – More than 150 LGBT Coalition of Anti-Violence Projects reports people gathered June 18 for the 6th Annual significantly higher victimization of youth, people LGBT Older Adult Summit at the MSU of color, and particularly transgender individuals. Detroit Campus. Much of the conversation The report, released June 13, found 1,253 bias and workshops focused on topics like how incidents in 11 states, including Michigan. That to obtain financial security in older age, legal included 24 hate motivated murders, an increase issues for singles and couples post marriage of 20 percent over 2014 incidents. The majority equality and what role older adults can of those murdered were transgender or gender play in the continuing struggle for full civil nonconforming, the report said. rights. However, the tragedy in Orlando was “Hate violence, including bias, discrimination, never far from people’s minds. Each speaker criminalization of our communities, and the spoke to the grief and outrage felt by the presumption that violence against LGBTQ people LGBT community, and used the Summit’s is somehow permissible, is being written into our collective gathering to offer solace, comfort laws at an alarming rate,” said Beverly Tillery at and hope. “The reason we want to have hate crimes Volunteers staff the information table at the summit. the New York City Anti-Violence Project. “Now is Right, longtime summit organizer Judy Lewis with the time to hold our institutions and policy makers legislation is because when someone keynote speaker Jan Stevenson. BTL photos: AJ accountable. We cannot allow the codifying of commits an act of hate against an entire Trager violence against our communities through harmful group of people its not just the victims legislation.” who suffer, it’s the entire community that The report highlights why the Orlando massacre in becomes traumatized and terrorized,” transition to adulthood.” the LGBT nightclub Pulse June 12 was particularly said Kat LaTosch, president of the board A lot is at stake in the upcoming year traumatic to the community across the country. of the new SAGE Metro Detroit, in her for LGBT men and women, along with ‘Private residence (37%) followed by the street opening remarks. SAGE Metro Detroit, activists working to create and build pro- (21%) and the workplace (12%) were the most the organizer of this year’s Summit, is the LGBT policies and legislation. Stevenson common places that survivors reported experiencing successor organization to the Older Adult suggested that the young activists today hate violence,” the report noted. “Other places Coalition. Last year SAGE Metro Detroit and the LGBT elders form a partnership included non-LGBTQ specific venues (6%), was approved as one of 29 chapters of and learn from one another, building off of shelters (4%), and police precincts, jails or police SAGE (Services & Advocacy For Gay, the work that was accomplished by LGBT vehicles (2%).” Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Elders), elders. It is long said that if history is not Tilford, executive director of Luella Hannan The report noted that one percent of the crimes the nation’s largest and longest serving shared it gets lost. Memorial Foundation. occurred in LGBTQ specific venues. organization dedicated to improving the “Had it not been for those decades of Ina Birko is a return participant to the Nearly two-thirds of victims reported knowing lives of LGBT older adults. activism, getting people accustomed to LGBT Older Adult Summit. She went to their attacker. The day-long conference opened up the concept of civil unions, visibility of the first summit in 2011. Comparing the “People of color and undocumented survivors with a breakfast sponsored by PharMor LGBT parents and families, showing two events, Birko told BTL that she likes were more likely to experience physically violent Pharmacy followed by opening remarks and people that everybody has an LGBT the new format and updates the organization forms of hate violence,” a press release on the an invocation moderated by Judy Lewis. Jan coworker somewhere and that that person has made to the summit and appreciates report noted. Stevenson, co-publisher of Between The is contributing to your economic security, the topics that SAGE chose to present to In the Michigan specific section of the report, Lines, then gave an empowering keynote without that groundwork marriage equality attendees, particularly those surrounding Equality Michigan reported an 11 percent decrease address and impressed on the attendees never would’ve happened. And it’s our taxes and estate planning. in the number of incidents reported to the agency. that they have an important role to play generation that did that work.” “It’s important to have LGBT summits “This decline is in accordance with the past three in determining the future of the LGBT Following Stevenson’s remarks, a number like this one, because people don’t know years, where we’ve seen the number of reports movement. of workshops took place, including a panel what is available,” Birko said. “I don’t decreasing slightly each year,” the report noted. “We know what to do. We, the SAGE discussion on what current legal rights know what’s going on. My friends know “This may indicate that there have been fewer elders, we know it because we’ve been there are for same-sex couples, presented more about it because they’re married. incidents of violence. However, over these four doing it for years. We know how we got here by attorneys Adrienne Watts, Jane Bassett I haven’t a clue. I need to know what’s years there have also been dramatic shifts in our and we know what to do because through and Henry Grix. Lisa Whitmore Davis from available to me and going over it is very, department’s staff in addition to high turnover in the experience, trial and error and witness, we the AARP discussed a fraud watch network, very important - and providing us with organization overall – this means less capacity for know what works, what backfires and we caregiving workshops and upcoming access to information.” outreach to LGBTQ and HIV-affected communities know how to measure real change because calendar of events by the agency; a panel The lifetime achievement award was throughout the state.” we’ve born witness to it,” Stevenson said. focused on financial planning for LGBT presented to Atiba Cohen & Carolee Moss. As on a national level, Equality Michigan “We need to celebrate and we need to build individuals and families was presented Unfortunately, both women passed away reported the majority of victims were under the age on marriage equality’s victories. We need by LauRyn Williams, financial advisor unexpectedly within the last year. Atiba’s of 30. The agency also noted three murders. to stand up to violence and tyranny and for Waddell & Reed and a presentation surviving partner accepted the award on we need to help our young LGBT people on ageism was presented by Vincent her behalf.

8 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com ® Mercy Health Prevention Practices Kent County Health Department Testing Sites The Wheels of Mercy South Clinic Continued from p. 5 Smith Ryerson Park 4700 Kalamazoo Ave. SE 650 Wood St. Kentwood, MI 49508 Muskegon, MI 49442 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 21 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. 12:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Lenawee County Health Department 1040 S. Winter St. Lansing Area AIDS Network Saginaw County Department of Public Suite 2328 Diversity Psychological Services Health Adrian, MI 49221 1310 Turner St. 1600 N. Michigan Ave. 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Lansing, MI 48906 Saginaw, MI 48602 1 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. 4 p.m. - 12 a.m. 8:15 a.m. - 12 p.m. 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Lansing Area AIDS Network Wednesday, June 22 PrEP Panel Discussion Health Delivery, Inc. Livingston County Department of Public Spiral Night Club Bayside Health and Dental Center Health 1427 Turner St. 3884 Monitor Road 2300 E. Grand River Lansing, MI 48096 Bay City, MI 48706 Suite 102 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Howell, MI 48843 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. Lansing Area AIDS Network Health Delivery, Inc. Appointments preferred, but walk-ins Red Party Fundraiser Bridgeport Community Health and Dental accepted. Spiral Night Club Center 1427 Turner St. 6297 Dixie Highway Lansing, MI 48906 Bridgeport, MI 48722 Thursday, June 23 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Gospel Against AIDS Walgreens Unified Health Delivery, Inc. 501 South Ballenger Highway Dancing In The Park Community Health Center Flint, MI 48532 Palmer Park 501 Lapeer Ave. 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. Detroit, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Saginaw, MI 48607 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Unified Walgreens Monday, June 27 Health Delivery, Inc. 2170 Washtenaw Jackson County Health Department Hearth Home Prevention and Outreach Ypsilanti, MI 48197 Walgreens Center 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. 1314 N. West Ave. 732 Hoyt St. Jackson, MI 49202 Saginaw, MI 48601 Wellness Services, Inc. 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Walgreens 2815 Davison Road Thomas Judd Care Center Health Delivery, Inc. Flint, MI 48506 Traverse City Mayor’s Office Janes Street Academic Community Health 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. 400 Boardman Ave. Center Traverse City, MI 49684 1522 Janes Ave. Matrix Human Services 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saginaw, MI 48601 Walgreens 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 30852 Woodward Ave. Jackson County Health Department Royal Oak, MI 48073 Walgreens Health Delivery, Inc. 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. 1314 N. West Ave. Old Town Saginaw Community Health Jackson, MI 49202 Center 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. 804 S. Hamilton St. {BOLD Friday, June 24} Saginaw, MI 48602 Gospel Against AIDS Barry-Eaton District Health Department 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Walgreens Barry County Office 501 South Ballenger Highway 330 W. Woodlawn Ave. Flint, MI 48532 Hastings, MI 49058 Tuesday, June 28 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Kent County Health Department South Clinic Unified Barry-Eaton District Health Department 4700 Kalamazoo Ave. SE Walgreens Eaton County Office Kentwood, MI 49508 2170 Washtenaw 1033 Health Care Drive 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Ypsilanti, MI 48197 Charlotte, MI 48813 12:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Wellness Services, Inc. Genesee County Health Department Wednesday, June 29 Walgreens McCree South Genesee County Health Department 2815 Davison Road 630 S. Saginaw St. McCree South Flint, MI 48506 Flint, MI 48502 630 S. Saginaw St. 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. Flint, MI 48502 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. Lenawee County Health Department 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 1040 S. Winter St. Genesee County Health Department Suite 2328 Burton Kent County Health Department Adrian, MI 49221 G-3373 S. Saginaw St. South Clinic 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Burton, MI 48529 4700 Kalamazoo Ave. SE 1 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. Kentwood, MI 49508 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 12:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Saturday, June 25 Van Buren Cass District Health Department Gospel Against AIDS Hartford Clinic Walgreens 57418 CR 681 Thursday, June 30 501 South Ballenger Highway Suite A Van Buren Cass District Health Department Flint, MI 48532 Hartford, MI 49057 Woodlands Substance Abuse Clinic 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 960 E. State St. 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Cassopolis, MI 49031 Wellness Services, Inc. 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. Walgreens Van Buren Cass District Health Department 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. 2815 Davison Road Dowagiac Clinic Flint, MI 48506 302 S. Front St. For more information, call 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dowagiac, MI 49047 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 800-872-AIDS or visit www. Wellness Services, Inc. 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. michigan.gov/hivstd. Flint Pride 311 E. Court St. Flint, MI 48502 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 9 A Glimpse of Shocking Parting Glances OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER here were two newspaper kiosks in once-busy downtown Detroit in the 1960s. One situated at Grand Circus Park. One, at Campus TMartius, across from the still-standing, landmark 1877 Soldiers and Sailors Monument. Each month I’d stop at the closest stand, sneak a look up and down Woodward Avenue, and wait for the perfect unobserved moment to buy a copy of “Grecian Guild Physique Pictorial.” I kept this potent visual aphrodisiac in a brown paper bag when traveling home, sneaking a peek between bus stops. (I was once seen over my shoulder by an attractive guy who slipped me his phone number and an unused transfer. I did not get off at the next stop.) The 6” x 8” fuel for my fantasy life (or, was The vice officer who entrapped it, more subliminally, 6” me when I was 23 was attractive. x 9”?) cost $1.50. There were no full-front nude He said he had seen me around. images. Only suggestive posing pouches. Oiled He offered me a lift home. sleek bodies. Magnificent (There was no mention of sex.) outdoor settings. It worked nonetheless. When I went to his blue Ford Monumentally so! Some of the photos Thunderbird, it was locked. His carried cryptic markings. Viewpoint partner ran on the scene, called These indicated top or bottom, straight or gay, me a fag, yelled dramatically, whether a professional photographer’s model, This Year Pride Matters More Than Ever “You’re under arrest!” or a hustler privately available. Not that it did BY DAVID FURNISH me or my friends any Love is the bedrock of our community and the source of our good. But it was camaraderie of a secret shared from straights. he unspeakable tragedy in strength and progress. Pulse itself was founded as an act of How times have changed! There’s so much erotica, porn and acrobatic, Orlando, in the midst of Pride vibratory, cucumber silliness on the Internet – 90,000 online porn sites Month, has shaken the LGBT love. Barbara Poma opened Pulse 12 years ago to honor her – that it constantly borders on being ho-hum boring. Go tumblr kink Tcommunity to the core. Pride Month brother, a gay man who died of complications from AIDS. of choice. is a celebration of who we are and (My initial weekly 105 hours of X-rated viewing has dropped to a how far we’ve come. How can we mere 25, with fewer cold showers in between. Care to compare notes?) celebrate after 49 of our brothers and gay man who died of complications tied to the Pride movement, the The Internet, of course, is giving the post office a run for the money. sisters were murdered in cold blood? from AIDS. She wanted the club to LGBT community’s compassionate But there was a time in the 1960s when magazines like “Physique How can we march with tears in our embody the energy of his life and, response has achieved extraordinary Pictorial” could not be sent through the mail. Censorship was pervasive. eyes and pain in our hearts? more than anything, to serve as a results. By loving people who use Terrifyingly so. The attack at the Pulse nightclub place of love and acceptance for the drugs instead of denigrating and To send nude photos or suggestive letters meant arrest. My high school is a tragic reminder of why Pride LGBT community. It did that, and stigmatizing them, we are more artist buddy Gordon Barnard (aka Rita Hayworth) was a member of matters. It’s a reminder that the pink more. Pulse became a refuge, a place likely to prevent HIV and help the Grecian Guild, a fan club for supposedly discrete networking. The triangle was proudly reclaimed by of community. people build the lives they want. By postal authorities steamed open one of his “more suggestively worded our community from its origin in Growing up in Toronto, I found embracing HIV-positive people, we epistles,” and he was hauled into court, warned and fined. Hitler’s death camps. It’s a reminder solace and safety in clubs like Pulse short-circuit the stigma that fuels Back then – without the convenience of Grindr and DoMeMary – bars that the Pride movement was and in the people who gathered the epidemic. By loving and fighting were the only place to meet gays to make sexual assignations. The best founded in the wake of Stonewall. there. In certain parts of the United for the rights of undocumented bars were those with a back entrance. Coming or going incognito was It’s a reminder that for the past half- States, community gathering immigrants, or by shouting with an important plus. century, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and places like Pulse are the only safe pride that Black Lives Matter or that One had to be wary of vice officers. Unless a bar paid them off, and a transgender people have responded spaces for LGBT people. For that women’s rights are human rights, we few did, there was a risk of being arrested for looking at an undercover to violence and hate with unrelenting reason, they often evolve to serve are creating a world where an end to cop a few seconds too long. It was his word against yours, and most of love. more than their original purpose. AIDS is possible. the time your shamefaced explanation didn’t count in court. Love is the bedrock of our Nightclubs like Pulse become hubs If the success of the Pride The vice officer who entrapped me when I was 23 was attractive. community and the source of our for HIV prevention, breast cancer movement has taught us anything, He said he had seen me around. He offered me a lift home. (There was strength and progress. Pulse itself awareness, immigrant rights, and it’s that the only way to stop the hate, no mention of sex.) When I went to his blue Ford Thunderbird, it was was founded as an act of love. LGBT advocacy work. to stop the killing and the dying, is locked. His partner ran on the scene, called me a fag, yelled dramatically, Barbara Poma opened Pulse 12 Particularly in the fight against with love, compassion, and respect. years ago to honor her brother, a See next age HIV and AIDS, which is inextricably See next age 10 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com Positive Thoughts Creep of the Week Donald Trump BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI

Good Morning Vietnam o much anti-LGBT dumb fuckery has emerged after the shooting of On June 14 Trump tweeted, BY DIANE ANDERSON-MARSHALL S102 people, of which 49 were “Thank you to the LGBT killed, by a man with a military- style assault community! I will fight for you y stepfather came back from Vietnam Nobody listens to old gay guys weapon at while Hillary brings in more in the mid-’70s, a broken man with Pulse, a gay post-traumatic stress disorder and health living with HIV. Our world, from the nightclub people that will threaten M in Orlando. complications that grow more dire the older he gets. His PTSD has lasted 40 years; he couldn’t “just let it prevention workers to the gay clubs There has your freedoms and beliefs.” go” as some people have admonished. I was talking to LGBT media, has focused on the also been with my friend Scott recently and couldn’t help but much love notice the similarities between the two men, veterans fastest growing group getting HIV: and support Trump said in a June 13 speech. of wars they didn’t want to participate in, both still for LGBT In other words, since Trump, suffering from PTSD. Scott, however, never served young gay and bi men under 30. people and who doesn’t even support marriage in the military. He is a veteran of the AIDS epidemic rainbow equality, hates Muslims he’s a far of the 1980s and ’90s, that first wave of battle before and while African-Americans only represent 33 Donald Trump flags a’flyin’ better choice for gays. the enemy was known but not before his comrades percent of people under 24 in the national population, literally and “Ask yourself who is really the were all killed. they account for 57 percent of new HIV infections figuratively. And that’s nice. But, man, friend of women and the LGBT Scott has AIDS. He’s OK when I call it stage among those aged 13–24. For young black trans the anti-gay stuff is just especially community. Donald Trump with three HIV, as many activists and scientists now do to women the stats are even worse; 56 percent of all exhausting to read through and think actions, or Hillary Clinton with her remove the stigma – after all, AIDS is simply the last black transgender women already have HIV. about right now. words?” Trump continued. stage of HIV disease – but he doesn’t want the world, Yes, it’s critical we reach these young men and But I do it for you, dear reader. And I don’t know what actions Trump is and the LGBT community especially, to know he’s women, because without intervention the Centers while there were a lot of potential talking about since he has no “actions” living with AIDS, and has been for 30 years or so. for Disease Control and Prevention has predicted Creeps, many of them were pretty to show for his supposed support Nobody listens to old gay guys living with HIV. that half of all black gay and bi men will have HIV small fish all things considered. So I of LGBT people. He has not done a Our world, from the prevention workers to the gay in their lifetimes. Nobody is modeling numbers for chose a big fish, albeit one with very single thing but run his mouth about clubs to LGBT media, has focused on the fastest trans women, but I’d venture to say it’s even worse. tiny hands. how much he hates brown people. It growing group getting HIV: young gay and bi men The number of people living with HIV over 50 As has been established, one of the looks like Trump is engaging in some under 30. There’s good reason for that both from a is growing as well, both because antiretrovirals are first things Donald Trump did after magical thinking here. Apparently he prevention standpoint and a sense of racial justice. keeping long-term survivors alive now and because the shootings was to hop on Twitter believes that everything he says comes Young gay and bi men, especially those of color, and basically congratulate himself true. I for one am very relieved that is not the case. have the highest risk of HIV among all young people, See Positive Thoughts, page 15 “for being right on radical Islamic terrorism.” Granted he followed On June 14 Trump tweeted, “Thank that with “I don’t want congrats,” you to the LGBT community! I will ® but I doubt that. As one of the most fight for you while Hillary brings in Parting Glances more people that will threaten your all need to be reminded there was a time when we narcissistic people ever to run for Continued from p. 10 freedoms and beliefs.” had no newspapers, no churches, no gay centers, president, I’ll bet he gets a boner every time he’s praised. Not sure what he’s thanking LGBT “You’re under arrest!” no Pride marches, virtually no positive visibility. On June 12, the Tweet that came people for, but support certainly isn’t You were expected to behave in Detroit’s gay Nothing but each other. We made do. And many before read, “Horrific incident in FL. it. LGBT voters support Clinton bars (there were seven or eight downtown in the don’ts. Praying for all the victims & their by a mile. Some individual LGBT 1960s). No touching. No kissing. No holding hands. Friendly tip for living from an oldster: Take families.” Which is an appropriate people have expressed their support No dancing. I recall the excitement when a private nothing – or no one – for granted. Do-do happens thing to say. But it doesn’t really for Trump following the Orlando club – the former Detroit Press Club, located above when you don’t pay attention. Watch your step! The mean shit because from that moment shooting. Fear makes people do stupid a burlesque theater – permitted same-sex dancing trumpet blares in the distance. Don’t say you haven’t on Trump has been using the Orlando things. with its $25-a-year membership. Woweee! heard it blowing. (No pun intended.) shooting for political gain, namely by And Trump is happy to capitalize Today’s LGBTs take so much for granted. But we [email protected] crafting the narrative that President on fear. In fact, his campaign wouldn’t Obama and soon-to-be-President exist without it. On June 17 he Hillary Clinton are somehow softies promised via Twitter, “More attacks ® Pride Matters you don’t really know. It’s easy to hate people who for terrorists and that since terrorist will follow Orlando.” Continued from p. 10 look different, who pray different, who love different. groups like ISIS hate LGBT people, Perhaps Trump has dreams where But we cannot give into the hate. Differences don’t Obama and Clinton basically hate he stops the next attack, flying through We’ve seen, time and again, how compassion makes matter. We’re all human beings. We’re all Orlando. LGBT people, too. the air and stopping bullets with his our community stronger and healthier. That’s why That’s the truth we celebrate during Pride Month, “Hillary Clinton can never claim bare tiny hands, but as far as actual today, in the wake of horrendous tragedy, and every and it’s why now, more than ever, Pride matters. Hate to be a friend of the gay community policies go, all Trump has is anti- day, we must press on with our work to show the took the lives of our family and friends. Love is how as long as she supports immigration Muslim rhetoric that inflames hate and world that we are as vibrant, united, and proud as we must honor their memory. policies that bring Islamic extremists inspires bigotry. You can’t fight hate ever. We must continue to be agents of tolerance, to our country and who suppress with hate, and yet that’s all Trump has compassion and dignity, even – especially – in the David Furnish is the chairman of the Elton John AIDS women, gays, and anyone else who to offer. And LGBT people have had face of evil. Foundation. This op-ed originally appeared in The doesn’t share their views or values,” more than enough hatred, thank you. It’s so easy to hate. It’s easy to hate people who Advocate. www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 11 The Frivolist 7 Hard Truths the LGBT Community Must Address in the Wake of the Orlando Massacre

I’m using my editorial allowance practically nonexistent now. No matter how this time to dissect the aftermath much progress we make in terms of legislation for our civil liberties, the conservative right of the largest mass shooting in U.S. and its radical cohorts continue to establish us as demons. As a result, there are proverbial history and our loved ones’ reaction bounties on all our heads – and we need to get to it; the response by the media; our heads out of our asses about it. We are Orlando; this could’ve happened to any one and how we, as a unified people, of us – and if we don’t wise/rise up, it will. must take a stand to tell those who oppress us that enough is enough. 6. Allowing Anyone to Marginalize You Must End Now You don’t need to apologize for who you BY MIKEY ROX are anymore. Like, ever. If somebody doesn’t like who you are because you’re gay, lesbian, or the past few years that I’ve penned bisexual or transgender, that’s their problem, this column, I’ve kept it light and fluffy. not yours. Stop apologizing to your relatives, FIt’s called The Frivolist after all, and my friends, coworkers and pastors. You don’t goal is to entertain with innocuous content that owe anybody anything, but you should start focuses on the fun stuff in life. I’ve written demanding respect. Otherwise, cut them out about movies, music, fashion and fitness here effectively diagnose and treat it before it’s too AR-15s and similar assault weapons weren’t of your life. Their political and religious views – all of which, in the grand scheme of things, late. That’s not to say that the other soapboxes readily available and legal to obtain makes are poison, and it can kill you. are rather inconsequential. are irrelevant – they aren’t – but mental illness zero difference – especially to those who Then Orlando happened. played a part in this tragedy, and we can’t keep have been and will be buried by their families Forty-nine of our LGBT “family” members brushing it under the rug. because their bodies are full of bullets. 7. We All Need to Take a were gunned down simply for being LGBT, Course on How to Survive a along with another 50-plus injured, and in 2. There Are People in Power reflection of June 12’s early-morning events 4. The Silence of Your Non- Mass Shooting I didn’t think it appropriate to use this space in This Country Who Want Us LGBT Friends Is Deafening – to reveal the latest summer gadgets. Instead, There’s no end in sight for America’s I’m using my editorial allowance this time Dead But Also a Wake-Up Call scourge of mass shootings. It will happen again and again and again. And until every to dissect the aftermath of the largest mass It’s not hard to find an American member You might have noticed something shooting in U.S. history and our loved ones’ assault weapon is melted down, you are in of the clergy who has at one time or another disturbing the day of and after the Pulse danger. If the government won’t protect you, reaction to it; the response by the media; and – maybe during a Sunday sermon or perhaps nightclub attack: Your LGBT friends and how we, as a unified people, must take a stand you have to protect yourself – and step one in a video that’s surfaced online – called allies mourned this tragedy while much of the is enrolling in a course on how to survive a to tell those who oppress us that enough is for the condemnation and, in some cases, rest of your network either remained silent or enough. We are in this together until we are mass shooting. They’re growing in abundance, execution of LGBT people. They exist. skirted the issue of decades of villainizing our because, well, that’s our reality now, and it’s not, and that fate should never be up to another Despite their seeming abundance, however, community. If they did have an opinion, it was human being. Thus, here are a few bitter pills in your best interest to be prepared. Your life they’re relatively few in numbers, and about guns and Muslims and terrorists. This may depend on it. to swallow if you don’t want to be a statistic. they’re often viewed as fringe members of in itself should be a wake-up call to you that the religious community. Who we should you know and love people who do not care if Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist and 1. There’s Still Little Focus on be more concerned about, however, are the gay people are murdered in mass – and you LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has been elected officials who we’ve put in power need to start separating yourself from their published in more than 100 outlets across the Mental Illness that are facilitating a deep-seated disdain deadly ideology. world. He splits his time between homes in New and hatred toward LGBT people and other Sane people don’t walk into a nightclub York City and the Jersey Shore with his dog Jaxon. minority groups. People like the Trumps, Ted with a capacity crowd in the middle of the Connect with Mikey on Twitter @mikeyrox. Cruzes and Dan Patricks of the world are a 5. It Doesn’t Get Better – And night and open fire a la Tony Montana. Yet the problem, and they cannot be absolved of their three major talking points on both mainstream We Need to Stop Pretending It bloodstained rhetoric any longer. ... there are proverbial bounties on and social media following the massacre were gun control, terrorism by Muslim extremists Does all our heads – and we need to get and lax immigration laws – even though 3. Bitching About Gun Control Dan Savage’s rainbow-tinted “It Gets our heads out of our asses about the latter is moot because the gunman, who Better” approach to LGBT discrimination I will not glorify by name, was born in the on Social Media Is Useless helped ease our pain a few years ago when it. We are Orlando; this could’ve United States. We must start addressing our If gun reform is important to you, push your LGBT suicide was a top story in the news happened to any one of us – and country’s epidemic of mental illness, no matter issue with policy change. Updating your status cycle, and while that nonprofit marketing how difficult the conversation is, so we can about how this never would’ve happened if gimmick wasn’t even true back then, it’s if we don’t wise/rise up, it will.

12 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com Aftershocks of Orlando: Is GOP in ‘Solidarity’ with LGBT Community or Squirming Over Trump’s Embrace?

BY LISA KEEN of voting for Trump. chastised Trump for repeating his call for a ban “The untenable GOP coalition includes anti- on Muslims entering the U.S. following the Trump Better for LGBT? The aftershocks of a mass shooting at an gay bigotry, and those voters aren’t going to Orlando shooting by an American-born citizen And on Thursday, at a rally in Dallas he LGBT nightclub June 12 continued to rattle let Trump embrace the LGBT (community) in whose parents came from Afghanistan. He’s said, “LGBT is starting to like Donald Trump through the 2016 presidential campaign during any substantive way,” said LaSalvia. “I suspect also repeatedly claimed that an American-born very much now.” the past week. that we have seen the extent of (Trump’s pro- citizen whose ancestors came from Mexico “You tell me who’s better for the gay Almost every day, Donald Trump claimed LGBT statements) with his recent comments cannot objectively preside over litigation community and who’s better for women than that LGBT voters would support him because that specifically mention LGBT voters. The against Trump, who has notoriously called for Donald Trump,” said Trump. he wants to ban Muslims who, he says, anti-gay forces in the GOP won’t let him go building a wall between the U.S. and Mexico. By Friday, Trump seemed more riled up “murder gays.” He made several vague further without backlash.” On the Monday after the Orlando attack than usual. Sweating visibly at the podium he statements that many interpreted as suggesting “LGBT voters know better than most what Trump gave a speech saying, “Our nation said that, “if some of those wonderful people” that President Obama had “something” to it’s like to have our lives used as political stands together in solidarity with the members in the Orlando club had had guns “strapped do with the Orlando attack. Then former pawns,” added LaSalvia. “Trump’s divide- of Orlando’s LGBT community.” to their waists or right to their ankle, and this Republican presidential candidate Sen. John and-conquer style campaign, pitting some “A radical Islamic terrorist targeted the son of a bitch comes out and starts shooting McCain explicitly claimed that President Americans against others, isn’t going to play nightclub not only because he wanted to and one of the people in that room happened Obama was “directly responsible” for the well with LGBT voters. We’ve been on the kill Americans, but in order to execute gay to have (a gun) and goes ‘boom, boom’-you Orlando attack. wrong side of those attacks before.” and lesbian citizens because of their sexual know what? That would have been a beautiful, Hillary Clinton’s campaign struck back, Log Cabin Republicans national President orientation,” said Trump, according to a beautiful sight folks.” posting a video on Twitter at The crowd at the twitter.com/HillaryClinton Friday Woodlands, Texas venue that reviewed the many previous cheered wildly, but most statements Trump has made polls show Clinton with a 6 that indicate he would not be to 12-point lead over Trump, particularly supportive of the and reports are circulating LGBT community. And even that some Republican Party some high profile Republicans delegates are looking for a struck back, saying they could not way to nominate someone support Trump. other than Trump at the Add to this: A co-founder of national convention next a now-defunct gay conservative month. group who has harshly criticized Other top Republicans Trump supporters in the past is are putting some distance now circulating a letter to seek between themselves and LGBT support for Trump. Trump. During Trump’s romp Chris Barron, co-founder of Chris Barron, co-founder of GOProud, confirmed that he is circulating a letter seeking LGBT support for Trump. Center, the other co-founder of through Texas last week, GOProud, confirmed that he is GOProud, Jimmy LaSalvia, had a much different take on the idea of voting for Trump. Left, Log Cabin Republicans national President Gregory Angelo Republican Gov. Greg Abbott was yet a third take on Trump’s remarks following Orlando. He says the candidate seems to be trying to play “unifier of the GOP’s various wings.” circulating a letter seeking LGBT had “previously scheduled support for Trump, but declined activities” that his office said to release the letter and did not prevented him from meeting respond to other questions about his efforts Gregory Angelo was yet a third take on transcript from Time magazine. with Trump. Republican Gov. John Kasich of by deadline. In a statement to CNN, Barron Trump’s remarks following Orlando. He “It’s a strike at the heart and soul of who we Ohio said he can’t support Trump, and Gov. said Trump’s remarks following the Orlando says the candidate seems to be trying to play are as a nation. It’s an assault on the ability of Larry Hogan of Maryland said he wouldn’t shooting were a “game changer.” “unifier of the GOP’s various wings.” free people to live their lives, love who they even vote for Trump. So did U.S. Rep. Fred “I have no doubt that Donald Trump would “Only time will tell if his gambit pays off,” want and express their identity,” said Trump. Upton of Michigan. One-time Republican U.S. be better for LGBT Americans,” Barron told said Angelo. He also said his proposal to ban Muslims Sen. Larry Pressler of South Dakota penned CNN. “Hillary Clinton wants to continue Rich Tafel, former president of the Log from entering the U.S. should appeal to LGBT an opinion piece for The Hill newspaper a reckless foreign policy that has made the Cabin group, said, “Now (that) the GOP people because “radical Islamic terrorists... saying he is endorsing Democratic presidential world less safe for all Americans, including nominee is courting gays too,” his remarks enslave women and murder gays.” candidate Hillary Clinton. LGBT Americans. She can find plenty of time are marking the “last gasp of the culture wars “Hillary Clinton can never claim to be a “The Orlando shooting convinced me that to crucify Christians in the U.S. for perceived from the ‘90s.” friend of the gay community as long as she many Republicans/Independents/citizens anti-gay bias, but when we’ve got ISIS Republicans, he said, “are wondering if continues to support immigration policies have a responsibility to speak out now to get throwing gay people off of buildings, when this guy isn’t about to turn on them on one that bring Islamic extremists to our country some background check legislation passed. we have Muslim states that are prescribing the of their key issues, anti-gay bigotry...I don’t and who suppress women, gays and anyone Secretary Hillary Clinton has been very death penalty for people who are gay, I would expect they’ll speak out against Trump on this who doesn’t share their views or values,” courageous on this subject - she has stood up think this would be something that a friend of stuff because they’ve kept their mouths shut said Trump. to the NRA,” wrote Pressler. the LGBT community would be able to speak on his vulgar behavior before. They must be On Wednesday in Atlanta, he said, “The Pressler added, “many of my fellow out on, and Hillary Clinton (is) unable to do squirming.” LGBT community, the gay community, the Republicans and Independents have whispered so.” Barron also penned an essay for CNN, Many Republicans are squirming and some lesbian community-they are so much in favor to me the same feelings, but they say they will published June 17. are even announcing they won’t support of what I’ve been saying over the last three simply quietly not vote in the presidential The other co-founder of GOProud, Jimmy Trump, though none are citing his pro-LGBT to four days.” LaSalvia, had a much different take on the idea remarks as a problem. GOP leaders have See Aftershock, page 14 www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 13 NEWS Advocacy Groups Call for Unity in Wake of Orlando Mass Shooting WASHINGTON, DC, June 13 - The For those of us who carry multiple feels like to be scapegoated and isolated in The Harvey Milk Foundation National LGBTQ Task Force along with 52 marginalized identities, the impact of this the midst of a crisis that actually requires Human Rights Campaign other groups today called for unity in the violence and discrimination has even more solidarity, empathy and collaboration from all interACT: Advocates for Intersex Youth wake of the mass shooting that took place severe consequences. These intersectional quarters. We appeal to all in our movement and The Johnson Family Foundation in Orlando last weekend. The attack that identities and their ramifications are apparent all who support us to band together in rejecting Lambda Legal MAP has caused outrage across the nation and the at every level in the Orlando tragedy, which hatred and violence in all its shape shifting Marriage Equality USA world happened at Pulse during the LGBTQ disproportionately affected Latino/a members forms. Let us stand united as a diverse LGBTQ Muslim Alliance for Sexual and Gender Diversity nightclub’s Latino-themed night. Forty-nine of our communities, and has xenophobic community of many faiths, races, ethnicities, National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs people were murdered, the majority of which consequences that threaten LGBTQ Muslims. nationalities and backgrounds. National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce were Latino and Black LGBTQ people. The According to the National Coalition of Anti- Signed, National Black Justice Coalition groups released the following statement in Violence Programs (NCAVP), there were 24 Arcus Foundation National Center for Lesbian Rights four languages. Find the the Arabic, French, reports of hate violence related homicides Believe Out Loud National Center for Transgender Equality and Spanish version online. The English in 2015, and 62% of those victims were BiNet USA National Council of La Raza version of the statement follows: LGBTQ people of color. Transgender and Bisexual Resource Center National LGBTQ Task Force We the undersigned organizations working gender nonconforming people made up 67% Center for Black Equity, Inc. National Minority Aids Council (NMAC) CenterLink: The Community of LGBT Centers on the front lines of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, of the homicides, the majority of whom were National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance The Consortium of Higher Education LGBT Resource Professionals transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) movement transgender women of color. The violence The New York City Anti-Violence Project The Council for Global Equality Out & Equal Workplace Advocates share in the profound grief for those who against transgender and gender nonconforming Courage Campaign OutRight Action International were killed and many more who were people has continued into 2016 with 13 Equality Federation The Palette Fund wounded during Latin Night at the Pulse reported individual homicides this year alone. Family Equality Council PFLAG National nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Their lives NCAVP research on hate violence shows Freedom for All Americans Pride at Work were lost or forever altered in this devastating that LGBTQ people experience violence not Freedom to Work Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) act of violence targeting LGBTQ people. Our only by strangers, but also in their everyday GLBTQ Legal Southerners on New Ground (SONG) hearts go out to all the family and friends environments by employers, coworkers, Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) SpeakOUT Boston touched by this horrific act. We know their landlords and neighbors. The Orlando shooting Gay Men’s Health Crisis The T*Circle Collective lives will never be the same again. is simply an extreme instance of the kind of The Gill Foundation Tarab NYC This national tragedy happened against violence that LGBTQ people encounter every GLAAD Transgender Education Network of Texas GLMA: Health Professionals the backdrop of anti-LGBTQ legislation day. Trans People of Color Coalition Advancing LGBT Equality sweeping this country and we must not As LGBTQ people who lived through the Transgender Law Center GLSEN The Trevor Project forget that in this time of grief. Unity and AIDS crisis, we know what it looks like and Genders & Sexualities Alliance Network The Williams Institute an organized response in the face of hatred is what we owe the fallen and the grieving. ® Aftershock Collective resolve across national, racial Wisconsin - endorsed Clinton last Thursday. Continued from p. 13 “You can’t make up the world and political lines will be required to turn President Obama endorsed Clinton on June the tide against anti-LGBTQ violence. Our election.” 9, as did a favorite of Sanders’ supporters: into ‘us’ and ‘them’ and denigrate response to this horrific act, committed by Trump seemed to acknowledge last week U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. one individual, will have a deep impact on and express hatred towards that Republican leaders are distancing Muslim communities in this country and themselves from him, saying he may be around the world. We as an intersectional Obama groups because of the color “forced” to proceed without GOP leadership movement cannot allow anti-Muslim support. And the rancor between Democrats and of their skin, or their faith, or sentiment to be the focal point as it distracts “The Republicans, honestly, folks, our Republicans continues, even over the Orlando from the larger issue, which is the epidemic their sexual orientation and not leaders, our leaders have to get tougher. This shooting. of violence that LGBTQ people, including is too tough to do it alone,” said Trump, Attending a memorial event Thursday for feed something very dangerous those in the Muslim community, are facing according to a Washington Times account. the victims of the June 12 Orlando shooting, in this country. “But you know what? I think I’m going to President Obama said the massacre was both in this world.” - Pres. Obama The animus and violence toward LGBTQ be forced to. I think I’m going to be forced an “an act of terrorism” and an “attack on the people is not news to our community. It is to... We have to have our Republicans either LGBT community.” our history, and it is our reality. In 1973, 32 stick together or let me just do it by myself. “You can’t make up the world into ‘us’ love that so many across our country have LGBTQ people died in an arson fire at an I’ll do very well.” and ‘them’ and denigrate and express hatred shown to our fellow Americans who are LGBTQ Upstairs Lounge in New Orleans. The Democrats have their own split to towards groups because of the color of their LGBT, a display of solidarity that might have More than forty years later, similar acts of contend with, though it is not nearly so skin, or their faith, or their sexual orientation been unimaginable even a few years ago.” anti-LGBTQ violence are commonplace. dramatic as that of the Republicans. and not feed something very dangerous in this But that same day, U.S. Sen. John McCain Crimes motivated by bias due to sexual U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, who mounted world,” said Obama. told a gaggle of reporters that he thinks orientation and gender identity were the a strong challenge to Clinton during the “...We have to end discrimination and President Obama is “directly responsible” second largest set of hate crimes documented Democratic primaries, is continuing to violence against our brothers and sisters who for the Orlando mass shooting in an LGBT by the FBI in 2015 (over 20 percent). withhold his support from the party’s are in the LGBT community - here at home nightclub because he enabled ISIS to grow Murders and violence against transgender nominee despite losing the final primary in and around the world, especially in countries when he pulled U.S. troops out of Iraq. people globally have taken more than 2000 Washington, D.C. June 14. where they are routinely persecuted. We McCain later used Twitter to “clarify” his lives over the last nine years. Bias crimes But most prominent Democrats have gotten have to challenge the oppression of women, remark, saying he was not referring to against US immigrant populations, which behind Clinton, and one openly gay member wherever it occurs - here or overseas. There’s President Obama himself, but to “President include significant numbers of LGBTQ of Congress who held off on taking sides in only ‘us’ - Americans.” Obama’s national security decisions” as people, have increased over the past decade the Clinton-Sanders battle - Mark Pocan of The president praised the “outpouring of having led to the rise of ISIS. as anti-immigrant rhetoric has escalated.

14 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com ® Positive Thoughts Continued from p. 11 out of the clinical diagnosis of AIDS, but new infections are growing for a variety of often never getting your CD4 count up high reasons. And in an ageist world and a youth- enough because of previous damage from centric culture, this group has been largely left opportunistic infections. to fend for themselves, which is perhaps why Nowadays, we – the HIV and LGBT it seems, anecdotally, the suicide rate is higher. media, health advocates, and more – push for Take my friend Scott. He’s saying what a medication adherence, treatment as prevention lot of these people over 50 have been saying: and undetectable viral loads. (Your viral load that they aren’t being listened to, seen, or is how much HIV is in your blood; when it’s addressed. They are living long lives, but they below 50, it is undetectable and you have are experiencing early aging (researchers say less than a 1 percent chance of passing HIV people with HIV age 14 years faster, despite to others). And when we report on gay men living as long as non-poz peers). living with AIDS for years, commenters on Scott’s had Sculptra in his face to remove social media often write scathing comments signs of wasting (a 10 percent loss of body about these poz folks blaming them for not weight) and he’s had surgery to remove fat being adherent, not caring, “spreading AIDS,” from his back (the dreaded buffalo hump and so on. What these ill-informed critics don’t some anti-HIV medications cause). He has get, what we don’t report often enough, is that a catheter that sometimes leaks (another many of these GBT folks with HIV take their drug side effect) thanks to bouts of Kaposi’s medication religiously; perhaps they always sarcoma and anal cancer; fighting the latter have. They may have never left the AIDS stage with radiation and chemo took a toll on his of HIV infection. In 2013, 27 percent of the immune system. Today he wears adult diapers, 26,688 AIDS diagnoses in the United States something that stops him from dating. His were people 50 or older; of the deaths related ego can’t take it. His longtime partner died of to AIDS complications that year, 37 percent AIDS complications years ago. He’s lonely were people over 55. and isolated and sometimes battles depression. Older people who get diagnosed today with But equally often he’s mad as hell. In large HIV are more likely to actually be at stage 3 part, because like my stepfather, he’s been when they find out. Gay men like Scott who forgotten, as are the others who survived the have lived with it since the earliest days of the first wave of the AIDS epidemic. He’s never disease didn’t ask for AIDS, either. They were really grieved (there’s no time) even though he the guinea pigs who took the earliest of the lost dozens of friends, faced elected officials drugs – it wasn’t until the mid-’90s that we had who suggested a vast quarantine system for decent drugs, wasn’t until the last decade we people like him and realized how uncaring had the best combination antiretrovirals. What the world could be. that means is that much like those Vietnam He’s also misunderstood, he says. vets (who also were subjected to untested While the younger gay and bi men he meets chemicals), Scott and his fellow long-term treat HIV as a chronic manageable condition survivors went through hell with their bodies like diabetes, he’s had a different experience so that young people today have the option to beginning with a constant fear of death in the take a single pill a day and stay healthy and early days. Young gay poz activists are sexy happy and undetectable. It’s an option that’s and healthy looking; Scott is not. He was the not available to Scott, but it’s one he helped guinea pig, one of many who took the first create for all of you. HIV drug: AZT (azidothymidine), which was It took decades before Vietnam veterans fast-tracked by the FDA in 1987 as thousands got their own much-deserved memorial. So were dying. much loss and anguish surround the survivors People with HIV were thrilled to have of those who perished or are still MIA but something, even if that something was as presumed dead from that war. The same is the flawed as AZT was back in the day. The early case with the war on AIDS. We have quilts dosing was too high (1,500 mg vs. around and memorials in the works, things that’ll 300 mg later) and quite toxic. Many (perhaps let us honor the thousands of our friends and most) who took it still died. But people often fellow queers who died. But for Vietnam vets halved their doses and shared it with friends and long-term HIV survivors alike, there’s who didn’t have access, which is what Scott never been an emphasis on those who made it did. Taking 750 mg may have saved his life. home, those who survived. No right to grieve, But it didn’t save him from AIDS. no time to wallow. They’re just supposed to He was diagnosed with AIDS as soon count themselves lucky and shut the hell up. as the term changed from Gay-related But maybe they’ve been talking all along immune deficiency (GRID) to acquired and it’s us who hasn’t been listening. immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV stage 3 or AIDS happens when a person’s Diane Anderson-Minshall is the editor in chief of CD4 cells falls below 200 cells per cubic Plus magazine, editor at large for The Advocate, millimeter of blood. If you don’t get treatment, and founder and chief storyteller at Retrograde people with AIDS generally only live one Communications, an editorial services and content to three years. But, with treatment, you can live many years, sometimes going in and curation firm. www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 15 Slipstream’s ‘Midsummer,’ Set in a Gay Bar, Re-Thinks and Re-Tools Horror of Pulse Massacre Reverberates on a Metro Detroit Stage

BY JENN MCKEE we’d figure something out, financially,” said Alexander. “But neither of us (Boudreau and t a Slipstream Theatre Company Alexander) really thought of doing that. … It rehearsal for “A Midsummer Night’s just reminded us, ‘Oh, yeah. This is why we ADream” earlier last week – following do this. We find solutions to problems instead emotional conversations about Sunday of giving up on them.’” morning’s massacre inside an Orlando gay They didn’t have much time to chew on the nightclub – a cast member pointed out that problem, though. Slipstream had closed its seeing actors lying on the floor with their eyes production of “The Picture of Dorian Gray” closed might be too resonant and disturbing. on Sunday, June 12, and “Midsummer” was Why? Because the Ferndale-based scheduled to open on Saturday, June 18. Slipstream, about a year ago, had planned to “We had to market it, and market it quick, set their all-male production of Shakespeare’s but any marketing felt wrong,” said Boudreau. comedy in a gay nightclub. “So we were thinking of every iteration We want to remind the community that we can stand together, “There’s this moment when all the lovers possible regarding how to market it without and that there are safe places, and refuse to bow down to hate. There’s are sleeping on the ground,” said Slipstream being tacky.” “ artistic director/actor Bailey Boudreau. “ … Yet this isn’t the first time that current events something incredibly powerful about refusing to stop dancing, and And it was pointed out to us by this kid in the have intersected with what’s on Slipstream’s cast – he’d pulled someone aside and said, ‘It stage. refusing to cancel a show, and keeping on with our lives. kind of looks like they’re dead when they’re “That whole life imitating art imitating life on the ground.’ It was the scariest thing.” line has been getting blurry,” said Alexander. That moment ended up being one of a “Even when we did ‘Ubu (Rex,’ an absurdist – Slipstream artistic director/actor Bailey Boudreau handful of staging choices that needed to be classic about a vulgar, dim-witted fool who ” carefully re-evaluated, discussed and tweaked aims to seize the crown) – we decided to do by Boudreau, director Luna Alexander and the that play a year ago, and we both thought that country was that people wanted to celebrate refusing to stop dancing, and refusing to cancel cast in the week leading up to “Midsummer”’s Trump would be out of the running months our community and feel strong and feel like a show, and keeping on with our lives.” opening. in advance. So doing it at the time when he we’re together,” said Boudreau. “People are Indeed. But doing so still takes a lot of “In the play, of course, our characters are was gaining more and more momentum was mourning, but they also want to feel pride courage. fortunate enough to get up, with a fairy’s bizarre. With this incident, it was more of a during Pride Month.” “One of the most heartbreaking things in the blessing,” said Alexander. “Remembering weird shock.” “On Monday, we talked about how the show cast discussion was when one of the straight what’s happened, we hope that maybe we can Originally, Slipstream’s “Midsummer” had now has a serious undertone, but we still need actors, who has been an advocate for gay help with the healing.” been planned as a silly, campy romp, “to mock to give the audience an opportunity to breathe rights, … asked if we would have a security Shakespeare’s comedy tells the story of what gay bars had become,” said Boudreau. and laugh and remember,” said Alexander. detail,” said Boudreau. “He was worried about four lovers who get lost during the course “It’d been fun, but we decided if that was really Another “Midsummer” adjustment involved a copycat. …I cry when I talk about it, because of a midsummer night. While trying to find the intent, we clearly couldn’t do that anymore. toning down its stereotypes and on-stage it hurts that an ally now feels in danger for their way, a spirit enchants the young people …We took out references to how ludicrously nudity; and replacing the opening song, which being an ally.” so that their affections get confused, and a sexualized gay bars are – we toned that down, was originally an Ethel Merman tune. “It was traveling band of actors gets mixed up in the and we added a moment of solidarity. There’s a sort of ushering in a night full of absurdity PERFORMING supernatural chaos too. perfect time for it, and with the structure of the and ridiculousness,” said Boudreau. “But after Slipstream’s press release for the show show, it makes sense. When the drag queen is talking about it, we changed it to ‘Gypsies, ‘A Midsummer Night’s reads, “set in the only place where fairies crowned, she didn’t have a solo number, where Tramps and Thieves,’ because that’s less about become bartenders, elvish monarchs turn into the whole cast could join in. … So literally a saying, ‘We’re making fun of something,’ and Dream’ drag queens, a shot boy named Puck serves musical number decided (the show not being more about saying, ‘We’re all welcome, we’re Slipstream Theatre Initiative elderflower cocktails, and the butt of the joke canceled).” all wanderers.’ And, you know, it’s Cher.” 460 Hilton Rd., Ferndale On Sunday, Alexander spoke by phone to is everyone’s favorite Bottom! Follow two sets What’s the song? “I Am What I Am,” from 313-986-9156 a friend who lives across from the Stonewall of hapless lovers as they enter Wood’s - the the musical “La Cage aux Folles.” $12 in advance only only gay bar around Athens, Ohio.” But even with this added moment of Inn in New York, “and he said, ‘This is like 8 p.m. Saturday, June 25, July 2, 9 Whether the production would (or should) acknowledgment, Alexander and Boudreau, a jolt. It’s like a reminder that you have to go forward at all was a question raised by throughout the final week of “Midsummer” have community, and the community has 7 p.m. Sunday, June 19, 26, July 3, 10 Slipstream’s executive director, Jennifer rehearsals, knew they had to somehow thread to come together,’” said Alexander. “We 7 p.m. Monday, June 27 Jolliffe. the needle of keeping the show fun while also thought, ‘That’s the direction we take the 8 p.m. Thursday, July 7 “She’d mentioned that if we wanted to being sensitive, but not getting too preachy. show in. We want to remind the community 8 p.m. Friday, July 8 that we can stand together, and that there are cancel the show, that was understandable, and “That was my first concern. … What I was >>www.slipstreamti.com she’d be more than willing to do that, and that seeing and hearing from my friends around the safe places, and refuse to bow down to hate. There’s something incredibly powerful about

16 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com In Wake of Orlando Massacre, LGBT Venues Ramp Up Security BY TODD HEYWOOD revolved around what additional security the community felt “unsafe.” Washington said Young Americans for Freedom Michigan measures to implement, and private discussions she will be working with LPD to make sure State University chapter when that group was n the aftermath of the Orlando massacre, about arming themselves, Courtney said the special attention is brought to the bars. listed by the Southern Poverty Law Center as the staff at Spiral Nightclub in Lansing club has been contacted by a security specialty Also last week, Detroit Police officials a hate group. It was listed as such for extreme Ihave begun talking about guns. Not organization that is offering to train staff on a announced they had met with bar owners in anti-immigrant, anti-Islam, anti-Semitic, racist banning them, but rather getting them. variety of crisis related issues. that city to discuss safety. and homophobic programming. Van Dyke was “I’ve had staff who know I have guns, ask The shift in attention is new for the staff of In Fort Worth, Texas, officers from that not a student at the time – he’d been booted me to shoot with them,” said Sam Courtney, the club. Courtney said that normally his team police department have been visiting bars out of MSU for a gun charge. He attempted the bar’s manager. “They are talking about will confront verbal fights “maybe every six in the community. And while that might be to have his court record in 54-B District Court getting guns.” months, at most.” helpful for some in the community, another expunged, but part of the record – the register Courtney said while no official decision on Courtney, who said he was straight, noted sort of scheme to offer protection has also of actions – remained in the computers. BTL security responses at the club have been made, that he is witnessing the community “ramping surfaced in the Dallas community. obtained this document which shows Van the massacre on June 12 in a gay nightclub, up security,” and acknowledges the discussion White nationalist Jason Lee Van Dyke – Dyke faced domestic violence charges as well Pulse, in Orlando has his team re-thinking of personal guns is part of that, as well as who co-authored a legal brief to the U.S. Sixth as weapons charges. The record shows the their security measures. During that shooting, strange. Circuit Court of Appeals against marriage domestic violence charge was dropped and he 49 patrons were killed and 53 others injured. “People are unsure. People are making equality and invoking the long held “western was found guilty on the gun charge. Police killed the gunmen as he tried to flee choices that are contrary to their progressive cultural beliefs” including execution of gay Philip Rodney Moon has been monitoring the bar through holes they had blown in the values, to their nonviolent values,” he said. people – is offering weapons and self defense the activities of Van Dyke and others from that exterior walls of the nightclub. Courtney said he has not officially met training for the LGBT community. hate group since it veered from conservative “Security staff used to mingle and clean up with Lansing Police Department officials, “Also, as this class is officially being hosted political postures to white supremacy ideology dishes,” Courtney said. “Now there is a new but on the night of the massacre, LPD Chief by a 501(c)(3) organization (Texas Marksmen, and events. attention to security in general, and an active Michael Yankowski was present at Spiral Inc.), there will be no discrimination as to who “Van Dyke has shown himself to be shooter in particular. It’s being aware of who’s for the memorial release of lanterns. Two is permitted to take the class,” Van Dyke wrote homophobic, far beyond the usual tone seen out of place, which is too bad because we want uniformed officers were stationed outside the in a Facebook event posting over the weekend. in mainstream conservative conversation,” this to be a crazy inclusive place.” bar as well. Police officials have said they are “What this means is that, although we are said Moon. “He’s freely used offensive speech He said staff have discussed “how do we increasing patrols around Spiral, and the other marketing this opportunity only to the LGBT against LGBT opponents and partnered with keep our own community safe?” gay nightclub in Lansing, Esquire. community, anyone who is legally permitted the white nationalist group Traditionalist “We’re going to be here,” he said “You’re Jody Washington, a city councilmember to take the course that wishes to attend will Youth Network to oppose marriage equality in not taking this away from us.” who represents the ward in which the gay bars be welcome.” 2014. Van Dyke’s outreach is not done with the While discussions with his team had in Lansing are located, said she was “sad” that Van Dyke was the legal advisor for the interests of the LGBT community in mind.”

www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 17 Lena Dunham. Credit: Mark Schafer/HBO Lena Dunham. Credit: 'Girls' Creator on Recognizing ‘Seemingly Mundane’ LGBT Issues & the Influence of Her Sister’s Queerness

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI made it her life’s mission to tear interview, the actor also elaborated expecting this gritty documentary the need to find yourself in fashion down societal standards. on the “strength” she gained from and I’m like, yes, there are when there aren’t representations “Suited” is the perfect fit for Lena Backing “Suited” only seemed wearing her own tailored suit, moments of that, but really it’s of you. I know that when I entered Dunham. natural, then. During Jason Benjamin’s seeking to break stereotypes with the family movie I would want to high school and became a chubby Producer of the thought- directorial debut, airing now on her zeitgeist coming-of-age dramedy watch if I thought that queerness girl – I’d always been a little skinny provoking documentary about the HBO (the film initially premiered in “Girls,” and being so gay adjacent was more accepted in the world of kid and then suddenly I gained 40 powerful relationship between January at Sundance), transgender she calls her significant other, fun.’s family movies, which I hope it will pounds in four months and didn’t fashion and identity, Dunham knows and genderfluid suit-buyers uncover lead guitarist Jack Antonoff, her be soon. know what to do with my body and firsthand that bending the gender a deeper sense of self as they find “partner.” didn’t feel like there was a place rules by wearing a suit can be a garments that speak to their identity In what ways did you find yourself (for me). I could either walk into transformative experience. During at Bindle & Keep, a Brooklyn-based I’m gonna try not to cry again just empathizing with some of the people a Lane Bryant and sheath myself this year’s annual Met Gala, the bespoke men and womenswear thinking about one of the doc’s who visited Bindle & Keep? in something that didn’t make me multi-hyphenate – actor, author, company. subjects, 12-year-old Aidan Star Jones. feel like myself at all or I could director, social activist, feminist, I don’t identify as queer in my Dunham’s genderqueer sister, I’m not transgender, but I felt like I continue to wear my too-tight hot out and proud proponent of the sexuality, but I have a lot of really Grace, appears in the documentary was watching a version of myself. pink sweatpants. I didn’t feel like word “no” – rocked an androgynous close relationships with queer while on a quest for a “dark wool there was a place for my body to be look, sporting black-tie attire and That makes me so happy! And people, and queer culture has been suit … to run around in.” seen or known or understood. slicked-back hair as if she were a by the way, I’ve seen the movie a hugely influential. Like so many Dunham recently phoned for So, for me, what’s been really GQ cover model. The masc moment million times and I still weep every disenfranchised women, queer a candid conversation about powerful as an adult has been was classic Dunham – meaning, yet time I watch it. I weep every time culture has been a huge part of my how Grace’s gender subversions having my clothes tailored, which another strong statement. Known my sister comes on screen. I just coming of age. have influenced her to challenge is something I only started doing for her Emmy Award-winning HBO weep because I love that it’s kind Like I said, I’m a straight girl, but Hollywood norms. During the once I started going to red-carpet series “Girls,” the 30-year-old has of a feel-good movie. People are what I really empathized with was

18 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com events, and even though I’ve had that and we got our own critiques about felt like I didn’t understand the idea of experience, I actually had a Bindle what we were representing, we were a person whose gender and sexuality & Keep suit made for our Sundance going, “Wait, a bunch of other people could contain elements of everything premiere. The experience of putting feel that way too,” because I didn’t see that they’d seen. It’s funny: You know, on something that just fucking fit was kind of my weirdo, anxious, chubby self I wore a tuxedo to the Met Ball this so remarkable, and I looked in the on television. Other women didn’t see year and it was such a great feeling to mirror and there was this strength that complex women of color represented go to a big fashion event where you’re came from not trying to hide any part on television; other women went, surrounded by girls in gowns and feel of myself. So, I think we can all relate “Hey, I’m Asian and I’ve never seen this kind of strength that comes from to that feeling of trying to find the a character who doesn’t just have her being feminine while owning some look – of fashion being a way to try nose in a book and is playing the violin.” masculine attributes. and express yourself, and not feeling We’re always just trying to push back like there’s any place to turn in the against stereotypical representation or How did it feel to be the odd man out, so commercial marketplace where your play with it in an intelligent way. to speak? identity’s being accepted. In that way, And what I loved about “Suited”: It’s this very ineffable thing where fashion turns from something that is This is about an aspect of queer life – you’re like, “I feel cool, I feel sexy, very superficial to something that is we spend so much time thinking about, I feel like myself.” I felt a little bit at extremely emotional. and rightfully so, these huge issues like the Met Ball – I’d go up to ladies and marriage equality, raising families, job be like (deepens voice to resemble a Recently, I finally fit into a shirt that I’d discrimination; this is a much more man), “You look great!” (Laughs) I was been wanting to fit into for a long time, seemingly mundane issue. For the owning these kind of masculine clothes I so I get it. queer community and members of the had on and it felt really good, and I feel It’s amazing. It’s so subtle but it’s so gender nonconforming community, it without Grace in my life I wouldn’t. I important. My dad has always been actually ripples to every part of their think, especially when you’re working into tailoring. He’s a real suit guy. My life. Because you see, if (doc subject) in Hollywood, there’s a real pressure to friends will be like, “I saw your dad Everett (Arthur) doesn’t get a suit conform to femininity in a traditional and I knew it was him from far away then Everett doesn’t feel confident way, especially if you don’t look like because he was wearing this super sharp and Everett’s not gonna get a job and what people think a TV star should look suit at 10 a.m. on a Wednesday heading Everett’s not gonna show that, hey, a like. When I was first getting styled I’d to the grocery store,” and this made me gender nonconforming trans lawyer is go, “I just wanna wear a really pretty really understand that part of the reason an option in the South. It goes so far. dress and really pretty makeup, so when my dad does that is because it makes I just hope people see it and go, “I’m I go to an event people think, ‘Oh, she’s him feel that he can own his identity. seeing myself represented whether I’m way prettier in person than I thought she Something that I love in our family is, queer or not in these characters, and would be.’” That’s all I wanted. And now, my dad has all these suits and then my this is a version of the queer story that I Grace has made me feel like I can go in sibling, Grace, who’s in the movie, will haven’t seen before.” with a fucking suit with my hair messed take his old suits and tailor them to her up because the rules have changed. How has having a sister who identifies as body. It’s funny, when we were little girls a gender nonconforming person changed I love that you’ve taken her lead. Speaking my dad always wanted to dress us in your perspective on yourself and your of people who’ve influenced your world, I a super androgynous way. If we were sexuality? talked to Jack a few years ago. alone with him for the day, it was a This is an overused word, but Grace is Mmm! My partner. plaid shirt, jeans, sneakers; he just a really brave person. Grace very much thinks androgynous fashion on women came into the world – age 3 – being like, Yes, your partner. Is that what you call is super cool. One of the first presents “I don’t wanna wear a dress and I’m him? that he bought each of us: He got me being myself.” Grace always makes a (Laughs) I use partner because I like a suit in eighth grade; he got my sister joke that she was briefly straight from the it. We’re not married, but also, he’s not a suit in high school. He would really ages of 7 to 10. She very much came into my boyfriend. I feel like it’s another push the-ladies-in-suits angle. My the world with this radicalized approach one where I’m like, I’m kind of down mom came up in New York in the ’80s to being a woman. She did an interview with the queer community. I have my wearing a power suit, so the idea of recently in the New York Times in which partner! He’s my partner! suiting as something that kind of already she was having a conversation with her defies gender lines, I already felt like I friend Nicole Eisenman, who is also a Your refusal to marry until your sister had an understanding of. This (movie) queer woman, and they asked Grace could was admirable, and you wrote a obviously takes it to a whole new level. about her pronouns and Grace was like, wonderful essay after the Supreme Court I’m a gender nonconforming person but ruling last June. It’s been a year since How do you hope the stories that you I’m OK with being called “she” because the ruling. Have you thought about what are a part of telling, such as “Suited” and I like to really push the boundaries you might have the queer people in your your work as creator of “Girls,” can enrich of what “she” can be, and that really wedding party wear? and embolden the lives of the LGBTQ resonated with me. Because even though That’s an amazing question, and community? I consider myself female and I have a actually, Jack and I have talked about more binary approach to my sexuality, I I think my biggest hope – and my it and we’ve always said that when think that Grace’s idea about expanding (creative) partner Jenni Konner’s we get married we want our wedding the definition of what “she” can mean definitely coming from the same place party to just be our two sisters in has really opened me up. – is just that these stories make people tuxedos. Jack has a straight sister, I Before Grace became so deeply feel seen. That was always our goal with have a queer sister; they’d be our best embedded in her identity, I think that “Girls.” I went into HBO and said, “Hey, men / women and we’ll call it a day. I was still thinking of the world as… I don’t see any shows that represent my That’s our dream. friends.” And then when we put it on, I accepted the idea of transness but I www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 19 Ann Arbor Art Fair Brings New Dates, Artists he Ann Arbor Art Fair is one of Hours on Saturday, July 23. Michigan’s finest summer traditions For four days in July, the streets of Ann Tand one of the largest outdoor art fairs Arbor transform into an art lover’s paradise to in the nation. Each year, thousands of artists experience and enjoy original works of art, street compete for a limited number of spaces in performances, culinary treats and a variety of one of the four art fairs that make up The Ann shops featuring sidewalk sales. From Thursday Arbor Art Fair. For the first July 21 to Sunday July 24 2016, time in the 57-year history thousands of art enthusiasts will of The Ann Arbor Art Fair, turn out and enjoy engaging the art fair will open on a ne of Michigan’s with these artists, experiencing Thursday (July 21) and end their artwork, and embracing on a Sunday (July 24). Ofinest summer traditions the chance to enhance or start “Over the years the art rings in its 57th year. their own collection, experience fair has evolved into one of the music and art activities, and Michigan’s greatest summer explore the eclectic Ann Arbor traditions and expanded to shops and restaurants. over 1,000 competitively Some stand out artists juried artists covering 30 city include Alice Ham (Berkley, blocks,” said Karen Delhey, Michigan), Robert Farrell and art fair spokesperson. “To help leverage its Debo Groover (both of Florida). popularity and to accommodate the crowds, we Event times are 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday have moved the date.” through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. More than 500,000 are expected to visit Admission is free. Downloadable guide, map, Ann Arbor over the four-day event to enjoy parking options, activities schedule and more and purchase a wide range of media including can be found at www.theannarborartfair.com. painting, drawing, glass, sculpture, mixed media, Festival apps are available for iPhone and jewelry and more, not to mention the chance to Android. enjoy Ann Arbor in the summer time. Visitors will be treated to artist’s demonstrations throughout INFO the event, art activities for all ages and three- stages full of music and dance performances. Ann Arbor Art Fair There will be artists demonstrations, activities >> www.theannarborartfair.com. for children and three stages full of music and dance performances, including Art Fair After

20 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com 13

10 6

3 18 11 17 9 16 4 14 8 20 7 1 21 15 5 22 2

19

Ann Arbor Advertisers D’orio, Jd, Plc, Lynn B...... 7 Lewis Jewelers...... 12 Rosenberg, David ...... 12 Abracadabra Jewelry & Gem Gallery..... 1 Downtown Home & Garden...... 8 Lord of Light Lutheran Church...... * Sh\aut\ Cabaret and Gallery...... 6 Anderson, PLLC, Mary K...... 2 Esquire Interiors...... * Men’s Yoga...... 13 Spectrum Center...... 19 Ann Arbor Animal Hospital...... 12 First Unitarian Church of Ann Arbor.....* Merkel Carpet One...... * Three Chairs Co...... 20 Ann Arbor Civic Theatre...... 3 Frick, LMSW, BCD, CBT, Julie...... * Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams...... 14 Tios Mexican Cafe...... 21 Ann Arbor Saline Family Chiro...... * Gail van Langen Ph.d...... 9 Necto...... 15 Top of the Lamp...... * Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra...... 4 Greene, LMSW, ACSW, Marge...... 10 Orion Automotive Services Inc...... * Trillium Real Estate...... 6 The Ark...... 5 Groom N Go ...... * People’s Food Coop...... 16 Two Men And A Truck...... * /aut/ Bar...... 6 Hillers...... * Performance Network...... 17 UMHS Comprehensive Gender Services Program...... * Bassett & Associates...... * HIV/AIDS Resource Center (Harc)...... * Peterson, PLLC, Lisa J...... 18 University Musical Society...... 22 Common Language...... 6 Humane Society of Huron Valley...... * PFLAG Ann Arbor...... * Dependable Collision Center...... * Iglesia Martell Law...... 11 Polo Fields Golf...... * * Not shown on map Jim Toy Resource Center...... 6 Rock Shoppe...... * Create Something Special 2gether

2000 W. Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor 734.994.5111 www.lewisjewelers.com

www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 21 response professionals, who volunteer their services to deliver a variety of free fitness classes and wellness workshops. Quicken Loans, 662 Woodward Ave. , Detroit. www.campusmartiuspark.org/ events See Jane Sing 8 p.m. Suggested for will benefit the Ruth Ellis Center and S. First St., Ann Arbor. 734-996-8555. mature audiences. Ann Arbor Summer OUTINGS Gateway Community Services in www.blindpigmusic.com/ Festival, 121 Fletcher St., Ann Arbor. Lansing. Humans United for an Equal 734-764-2538. www.Janelynchofficial. Thursday, June 23 Society (HUES), 1100 Alton Road, Sunday, June 26 com Good Rainbow Genes An LGBT Pride East Lansing. www.facebook.com/ events/1555549934746336/ Day of Decision Celebration Braun Month exhibit of the art of well-known Court, Ann Arbor. www.Visitannarbor. Thursday, June 30 Detroit artist and Between the Lines Flint Pride Suggested donation: $5. Flint org Equality on Tap Date TBD. Bill’s columnist Charles Alexander. A meet- Pride, Flint. 810-232-0888. tspringer@ Beer Garden, Ann Arbor. www. the-artist reception with refreshments wellnessaids.org www.facebook.com/ Paddle Group 1 a.m. Bring a kayak, Billsbeergarden.com/ will be held on Thursday, June 16 from FLINTGAYPRIDE canoe or whatever floats. The paddle 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Scarab Club, 217 group hits the watersheds known as Mix & Mingle 5:30 p.m. Channel 955, Farnsworth, Detroit. 313-831-1250. Doggone Hoedown 2:30 p.m. Bring Brighton, Huron-Clinton, Irish Hills, 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit. www. www.scarabclub.org your pooch for an afternoon of country- Jackson, Pinckney and Waterloo campusmartiuspark.org/events themed dog activities to include bales Recreation Areas. They paddle for two to Healthy Moves: Strength & Cardio Ladies Night on Livernois 5 p.m. Join of hay, horseshoes, and more. Free three hours most Sundays. Life jackets Boot Camp 6:30 p.m. Join the Bedrock shops along the Avenue of Fashion in spa service provided by LCS Mobile are required. Yak season is April through Wellness Center to work up a sweat celebrating Summer Solstice! There Pet Spa. Quicken Loans, See website October. Yak Womyn, Ann Arbor. and build muscle. Quicken Loans, will be discounts, refreshments and for location details, Detroit. www. [email protected] 662 Woodward Ave. , Detroit. www. live music! St. John Providence Health campusmartiuspark.org/events System will offer mammograms! Gay Play Series (GPS) 3 p.m. The One campusmartiuspark.org/events Festival of the Sun Will feature a Appointments for a mammogram Act Festival ends with four plays: Angel Men’s film and discussion group variety of fine wines, beers and cocktails must be made in advance (by June of the People Mover, Boblo Island Fairies, 6:30 p.m. Affirmations, 290 W. for sampling as well as food, music and 4). Email artinmotiondetroit@gmail. Happy & Gay, and Not Our Town. Tickets: Nine Mile , Ferndale. 248-398- dancing. 21+ I Love Old Town, com to schedule an appointment. Lansing. $10. The Ringwald Theatre, 22742 7105. [email protected] www.Iloveoldtown.org Avenue of Fashion, Livernois Avenue Woodward Ave., Ferndale. 248-545- GoAffirmations.org 5545. www.theringwald.com (between 8 Mile & Clarita), Detroit. Italian Night Charity Dinner and [email protected] www. Men’s Film Group 6:30 p.m. Men’s Silent Auction at Zion Lutheran Film Group, for men ages 18 and up, facebook.com/NEW-Avenue-Of-Fashion- 5 p.m. Join MCB for an Italian Monday, June 27 Church features a variety of films followed On-Livernois-1499091960307005/ charity dinner & silent auction to benefit 6 p.m. Watch Fireworks and Game by discussion. Affirmations, 290 W. Affirmations and Ruth Ellis Center. Motor Outdoor rooftop, fantastic view and Rehearsals for Metro Detroit LGBT Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- City Bears, 143 Albany & Woodward potluck. Ten guests total. Please RSVP Chorus 7 p.m. New members welcomed 7105. [email protected] www. Street , . motorcitybears@ by Monday, June 20. Gay Geeks Social year round. One Voice Chorus uses Ferndale. goaffirmations.org singing to promote understanding gmail.com motorcitybears.com Group, 555 Brush St., Apt. 1404, Detroit. www.meetup.com Naked Men’s Yoga 6:30 p.m. Naked outside of the LGBT community, and Gay Play Series (GPS) 8 p.m. The Men’s Yoga, Ann Arbor. massage4@ unity within it. One Voice Chorus, original One Act Festival continues with 8 p.m. The Gay Play Series (GPS) aol.com http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ 1589 W. Maple Road, Birmingham. four plays: A Man in Peril, You Too?, Party festival will conclude with an awards michigan_mens_clothing_optional_yoga [email protected] http:// of Men, and Wallpaper. Tickets: $10. The ceremony, a repeat performance of onevoicechorus.net Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward the audience-voted favorite one act Ave., Ferndale. 248-545-5545. www. and the return of 3 Queer Tenors who Friday, July 1 Friday, June 24 theringwald.com will perform Bette Midler: Live at the Red Hot Fridays 9 p.m. Top 40 and What Mental Health Providers Need Continental Baths. Tickets: $10. The current dance music mixed by DJ Beau Retro Fevre Saturdays 9 p.m. The Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward Derek and Prime Minister. Enjoy $3 to Know About Transgender Identity best dance music from the 80s, 90s, 12 p.m. National Association of Social Ave., Ferndale. 248-545-5545. www. mixed drinks until midnight and $1 “we and today mixed by DJ Beau Derek Workers - Michigan Chapter, 2799 West theringwald.com call it” shot specials. No cover charge and Prime Minister. Red Door Night Grand Blvd, Detroit. 517-487-1548. before midnight. Use the password Club, 22901 Woodward Ave, Ferndale. [email protected] www. Tuesday, June 28 “Red Hot.” Red Door Night Club, 22901 2485411600. events@reddoornightclub. Woodward Ave., Ferndale. 248-541- nasw-michigan.org/events/EventDetails. Care to dance? 7 p.m. Learn to urban com http://www.reddoornightclub.com/ 1600. [email protected] www. aspx?id=812713&group= ballroom every Tuesday night. Bring a events/ reddoornightclub.com Festival of the Moon Features Bell’s partner, or not. There is no cover charge, Super Happy Funtime Burlesque Brewery, food, music and dancing. but they do ask that you patronize the 9:30 p.m. This 12-member touring 21+. I Love Old Town, www. establishment by purchasing a beverage Saturday, July 2 Lansing. monstrosity features a live band, a Iloveoldtown.org or a meal from their kitchen. Sisterhood Outdoor Games 12 p.m. Quicken Loans, burlesque troupe, and a circus act. Social Excursions, 8670 Grand River 662 Woodward Ave. , Detroit. www. Holland PRIDE Film Festival 7 This musical production is designed to Ave., Detroit. www.meetup.com campusmartiuspark.org/events p.m. Featuring the film “Prodigal find your line and cross it with a mix Sons.” Holland Pride, Holland. www. of GWAR and Benny Goodman with Lesbian Euchre 6 p.m. Affirmations, Hollandpride.org touches of SNL and the Price is Right. Wednesday, June 29 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248- Get sprayed with glitter and love while Healthy Moves: Workout Wednesdays 398-7105. [email protected] www. Gay Play Series (GPS) 8 p.m. playfully degrading taboo subjects like 5:30 p.m. Join the First Responders goaffirmations.org The Newparts Project, the newest religion, politics, and sex. 18 and over 4 Fitness, Metro Detroit’s emergency comedy from Julia Lynn Marsh will be welcome. Tickets: $10. Blind Pig, 208 followed by a discussion on casting See Happenings, page 25 for transgender characters with the audience, cast, and playwright. Tickets: $10. Stick around for a free event, Dustin’s Big Gay After Show, featuring Dustin Gardner at 11:30 p.m. The Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward The University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) Ave., Ferndale. 248-545-5545. www. theringwald.com presents its new exhibition through Sept. 11 in its A. Alfred Taubman Gallery. This exhibition presents new Saturday, June 25 and recent work by Los Angeles-based artist Catherine Grounds Crew Workfest 10:30 a.m. Opie, one of the essential figures in contemporary Come help prepare the grounds for a family reunion. Work as much as you photography. The exhibition “Catherine Opie: 700 can. Simple foods and water will be Nimes Road” is organized by the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles. provided. Lansing Lesbians, 14371 McCrumb Road, Eagle. www.meetup. Beginning in 2010, Opie spent six months taking photographs at the Bel Air, California, residence of com Elizabeth Taylor. The exhibition includes 50 works drawn from two series, “Closets and Jewels” and Holland PRIDE Film Festival 11 a.m. “700 Nimes Road.” Opie’s lens captures the essence of the Hollywood legend through her personal Featuring the films “Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine,” “La Mission” and “The objects and mementos, and portrays Taylor’s life experience and eccentricity as an illusory subject, Imitation Game.” Holland Pride, Holland. one that cannot be specifically designated or precisely described. In the artist’s words, the project is www.Hollandpride.org not about the relationship to celebrity but about “the relationship to what is human.” Second Annual Summertime Tie Dye (And Clothing Donation Picnic) 1 UMMA is located at 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor. For more information, call 734-647-0524 or visit p.m. Bring white or light colored clothes to dye and they will provide music, Umma.umich.edu/view/exhibitions/2016-opie.php. snacks and the dye. Clothing donations

22 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com Hear Me Out BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI Cool Cities The Healing Power of Beyoncé’s ‘Lemonade’ Ann Arbor veryone has their own theory Her talent is basically boundless. social subtext concerning the Black Lives about Beyoncé’s “Lemonade.” Vocally, too, Beyoncé doesn’t play it Matter movement and Southern repression EIs it about her marriage to Jay Z? safe. “Don’t Hurt Yourself” smears Auto- mark the 11-chapter narrative, which also Her dad’s infidelity? America’s pervasive Tune all over her velvety voice; she drops serve as tinted-windows into Bey’s own racism and its wrenching consequence: to a hypnotically low octave on “6 Inch”; personal life. By now we’ve all heard the slaughtering of innocent blacks? she fashions a reggae inflection on “Hold of Becky, the mistress with “the good Is it about Orlando now? Up.” The production is bold, and Bey’s hair,” whomever she is; on “Formation,” It could be. Though the complexities presence throughout is seismic. She is the singer leads a feminist rebellion, here are rich and thought-provoking, queen. “Lemonade” is her throne. dropping that Red Lobster zinger while “Lemonade” simply represents resilience. It also happens to be her best album simultaneously leading humanity down Inspired by Bey’s own grandmother-in- to date (do it; bow down), advancing the road to unification. Reconciliation law’s adversity, it’s about soldiering on the inventiveness of her last avant-garde comes in the form of “Sandcastles,” the despite setbacks, be it the calamity of a release, 2013’s self-titled “Beyoncé.” This piano ballad that bridges the album’s troubled relationship, the ever-present one further catapults the former Destiny’s split narrative – angry, icy/hopeful, black struggle, or the grief of 49 lives lost in Child song slayer beyond bling and bug- warm – as it unfolds into “All Night,” a gay nightclub. It is, which champions therefore, our album the power of love... to lean on, music all love. (The for unearthing an video appropriately inner fortitude when features gay and fortitude seems lesbian couples who futile. Beyoncé is, are, you guessed it, yet again, a beacon crazy in love.) of empowerment, When I and “Lemonade” is interviewed next-level liberation. Beyoncé in 2011 “Freedom,” for for a gay press instance, marches exclusive, the in like a victorious future of her rally cry. During artistic intentions the song, Queen and inspirations Bey channels the were apparent rawness of Merry even though she Clayton’s vocal was discussing the shred, when the sonic bend of that singer memorably year’s release, “4”: sang “rape, murder; “I really focused on just a shot away” making people feel in 1969 on Rolling good and feel love Stone’s “Gimme and know that there Shelter”; on is love out there and “Freedom,” Bey goodness exists,” is carrying on the she thoughtfully legacy of Martin conveyed, as if she Luther King Jr. and were in the early Rosa Parks; she is stages of planning the voice of all those oppressed, past, a-boos to new, socially-conscious heights. “Lemonade.” “I wanted to make a body present and future. Like a phoenix rising Pop stars, this is your benchmark now. of work that took risks – to be brave and from the ashes of despair and persecution, a Basically, not only should you surprise- be myself, and not focus on being cool.” “bulletproof” Beyoncé proclaims, “I break drop your work and create an astonishing The cycle is complete. Bey is now chains all by myself.” In that moment, she visual component, as she has, you must the artist she sought to be then, full- sounds reborn, which she is. also be the zeitgeist. You mustn’t just buck fledged, chains undone. Love, too, is “Lemonade” sees Beyoncé on the the trends – you must set the trends. You still the answer, it seems. Hate and frontlines of change. This is her “Like a must make an album that plays like an tears and terrorists, be damned. On “All Prayer,” her “Velvet Rope.” Risks abound, album – remember cohesive narratives? Night,” she assures, “Nothing real can from the Jack White-produced goth rock – rather than a stew of singles. You must be threatened.” In that moment, as the of her patriarchal takedown “Don’t Hurt demonstrate that you can be successful narrative of “Lemonade” culminates Yourself” to the New Orleans-tinged without radio support. with the healing power of hope, she’s not “Daddy Lessons,” a guitar-plucked, Bey’s sixth studio album is a staggering only a singer, not just a pop star either – percussion-slapped soul ditty that’s a achievement on those merits alone. But it Beyoncé is a life force doing her part to testament to Beyoncé as a bona fide artist: doesn’t stop there. It goes deeper. Potent keep the love alive. www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 23 Classifieds Call 734-293-7200 ext.15 201 REAL ESTATE - 350 PETS - PETS 428 PROF. SERVICES - REAL ESTATE AGENTS MASSAGE ENGLISH BULLDOGS Instant FREE access to Michigan MALE AND FEMALE ENGLISH Licensed Swedish and the Nation’s Top BULLDOG READY TO GIVE Auburn Hills AWAY ( FREE FOR ADOPTION) Gay & Lesbian Realtors. Kansonn Free Buyers Representation, CONTACT ME FOR MORE IN- 248-672-0669 Free Sellers Market Analysis - FORMATION GREMORE34@ Free Relocation Kit! GMAIL.COM [email protected] On-line WWW.GAYREALESTATE.COM 408 PROF. SERVICES - 1102 EROTICA - or Toll Free 1-888-420-MOVE (6683) COUNSELING MASSAGE

301 EMPLOYMENT - MASSAGE GENERAL Massage for men. Safe-Discrete, Psychotherapy good prices. Royal Oak Area. Sliding fee/No fee 12yrs. Experience. Dale Rogalski Call Lee 248-548-6516 MUST LOVE DOGS !! Masters Candidate Happy Hounds Dog Day Care is Supervised by Dr. Stephanie now hiring part-time hourly dog Williams, Ph.D. lovers. Please call or stop in to Offices in Pleasant Ridge, 9 fill out application. 1/2 Mile & Woodward, and 734-459-DOGS Plymouth 673 South Main St. 248-658-8791 Plymouth, MI 48170 248-259-1991 www.plymouthpsychologist.com [email protected] CARING DRIVERS WANTED Transport people to prescheduled medical appointments in Wayne County and beyond. Must have re- liable 4-door vehicle, cell phone, and access to email or fax. Great way to supplement social security, disability or a pension income. (989) 738-8671

Resource Please be sure to check out our special pet guide online @ www.pride- source.com It provides great articles and resources throughout the year that help you care for your pet!

BTL Pet of the Week - Rocky Meet Rocky! This 3-year-old domestic medium hair is a sweet and playful fellow! He loves to be petted and is sure to find himself at home in your lap. The adoption fee includes sterilization, age-appropriate vaccinations, the MHS Adoption Guarantee and much more. For more information, visit or call the MHS Detroit Center for Animal Care at (313) 872- 3400 and provide the pet ID number, 830938

24 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com Ann Arbor Civic Theatre’s Studio Series will present “And Give Us the Shadows,” directed by Paul Bianchi, on June 23-24. A dark portrait of a dysfunctional family, “And Gives Us the Shadows” portrays a fictitious visit by the sons of Eugene O’Neill on his birthday. This elegantly translated and whip-smart drama by foremost Swedish playwright Lars Noren makes its Michigan debut at the A2CT Studio Theater and gives local audiences a glimpse into the life of one of America’s greatest playwrights, as seen through the eyes of one of Sweden’s great writers. The talented cast of “And Give Us the Shadows” features Mark Bernstein as Eugene O’Neill, Erica Dutton as his wife Carlotta, Russ Thomas as Eugene O’Neill, Jr. and Russ Schwartz as Shane O’Neill, and Jonathan Jue-Wong as Saki. Performances are Thursday and Friday evening at 8 p.m. and Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m., June 23- 24 and June 26. The A2CT Studio Theater is located at 322 W. Ann St. Ann Arbor. All tickets are $12 for general seating. For additional information, visit www.a2ct.org or call 734-971-2228.

And Give us the Shadows Ann Arbor p.m. to 9 p.m. curated by Anne Drozd and MUSIC & MORE Civic Theatre, A2CT Studio Theatre, 322 Jerzy Drozd. Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. W. Ann St., Ann Arbor. June 23 - June 26. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. June 15 - June 24. Concerts 734-971-2228. www.a2ct/org/events/ 734-994-8004. www.annarborartcenter.org and-give-us-the-shadows B-93 Nashville singer and songwriter, Cranbrook Academy of Art “John Glick: Clare Dunn. Campus Martius Park, 800 Auditions for the 25th Annual Putnam A Legacy in Clay” Cranbrook Art Museum, Woodward Ave., Detroit. 9 p.m. June 24. County Spelling Bee Ann Arbor Civic 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills. www.campusmartiuspark.org/events Theatre, A2CT Studio Theater, 322 W. Ann June 18 - Nov. 30. 877-462-7262. www. Kerrytown Concert House “Invisible St., Ann Arbor. June 27 - June 28. 734- cranbrook.edu 971-2228. www.a2ct.org/audition Guy” Jazz. Kerrytown Concert House, Detroit Institute of Arts “The Open 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. 8 Dreamgirls Stagecrafters, Baldwin Road: Photography and the American p.m. June 28. 734-763-4186. www. Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak. Road Trip” Detroit Institute of Arts, 2100 kerrytownconcerthouse.com Through June 26. 248-541-6430. www. Woodward Ave., Detroit. June 17 - Sep. Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit stagecrafters.org 11. 313-833-7900. www.dia.org “Julianna Barwick” Special guest Mas Spin Suggested donation: $20. Theatre Detroit’s Pioneer Building “PIONEERS” Ysa will perform. Tickets: $12. Museum of Nova, The Yellow Barn, 416 W. Huron St., Cass Cafe, 4620 Cass Ave., Detroit. April Contemporary Art Detroit, 4454 Woodward Ann Arbor. Through July 10. 734-635- 16 - June 25. 313-831-1400. www. Ave., Detroit. 9 p.m. June 23. 313-832- 8450. www.theatrenova.org Casscafe.com 6622. www.mocaddetroit.org Kerrytown Concert House “Suchness” Nu Lo “Heaters” Stef Chura Band, Evan Professional Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Haywood and Broccoli will also perform. Dreamgirls PG-13. Tickets: $22-24. Ave., Ann Arbor. June 3 - June 29. 734- Blind Pig, 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor. 9:30 Stagecrafters, Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. 763-4186. www.kerrytownconcerthouse. p.m. June 24. 734-996-8555. www. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak. Through June 26. com blindpigmusic.com 248-541-6430. www.Stagecrafters.org Lawrence Street Gallery “Summer Palace Sports and Entertainment Invitational ‘16” Lawrence Street Gallery, “Steve Miller Band” Also performing 22620 Woodward Ave, Ferndale. June is Jimmie Vaughan. DTE Energy Music ART ‘N’ AROUND 29 - July 29. 248-544-0394. www. Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw Road, Clarkston. Ann Arbor Art Center “Comics Unbound” lawrencestreetgallery.com 7 p.m. June 24. 248-377-0100. www. Public reception on Friday, June 17 from 6 dteenergymusictheatre.org The Carr Center “Evenings in Paradise” Showcase of musical performances and entertainment by local and national jazz and R&B favorites. Paradise Valley Beatrice Buck Park, See website for location details, Detroit. June 7 - Aug. 25. www.downtowndetroitparks.com Festivals Kerrytown Concert House “Minifest: Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival In Residence” A classical performance by some of the world’s finest chamber musicians. Tickets: $15-$35. Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. June 17 - June 26. 734-763-4186. www.kerrytownconcerthouse.com Film & Video Palace Sports and Entertainment “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” The Palace of Auburn Hills, 5 Championship Drive, Auburn Hills. 3 p.m. June 25. 248-377- 0100. www.palacenet.com THEATER Civic/Community Theater Alone With Friends Tickets: $20. Planet Ant Theatre, 2357 Caniff, Hamtramck. Through June 25. 313-365-4948. www. planetant.com

www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 25 Eye” 13 USA rival Q Puzzle 45 See 41-Across 14 Fed. retirement agency 47 Verb with “protest,” to the 22 Like sourballs bard 23 Urania’s sister 48 Start of a legal conclusion 26 Not only that 50 In cahoots 27 Plates of Bean’s 52 Data for a headhunter 28 How Homo sapiens stands 54 Gets to the bottom of? 30 Words in an analogy 56 Annoyances 31 Earth tone 60 State that passed House 32 Lief’s tongue Bill 2 34 Kiddie-lit elephant 64 “Take it off!” 35 Able to bend over 67 Bone-chilling 36 Lounges 68 Current for three men in a 38 They’re into diapers tub 42 Office machine 69 Dressing for Dr. Kildare 43 Reproduction without sex 70 What the Devil wears, in a 46 Take into the pride? movie 49 Word on a Tammy Baldwin 71 Corp. magnates poster 72 Use them to fork around 51 Flees to become husband 73 One who scatters seed and husband 74 Matador’s opponent 53 Erect (or how bottoms take it?) Down 55 Many go down on them 57 Straight to ___ Sulu Says It All 1 Bloody queen 58 Moon in “Return of the Jedi” of George Takei 2 Hunter that comes out at Across 59 Affirm orally 24 Like a virgin’s maidenhead night 1 Paul Rudnick’s “The ___ 61 Mark Bingham of United 25 Whisper, as a secret 3 Tapir feature Fabulous Story Ever Told” Flight 93 29 Tissue problem in 4 Like Julia Morgan’s models 5 Terence of “Smallville” 62 Sticking point “Philadelphia” 5 Pro-gay perspectives 10 Ridges on Melissa’s neck 63 Gal Friday, e.g. 33 Rachel Maddow, to MSNBC 6 Univ. of Maryland athlete 15 Cartoonist Peter 64 Pepper, for one: Abbr. 34 Farmer in the hayfield 7 “The African Queen” author 16 No longer jail bait 65 Half a cocktail 37 “The Queen” producer Rudin 8 Hair of a stallion 17 Property claims 66 Come quickly 39 See 21-Across 9 Backup strategy 18 Rivera’s rivers 40 Past 10 Straw-colored 19 Place for your favorite boxers 41 With 45-Across, nickname 11 What the cops read at 20 Vital carrier for House Bill 2 Stonewall? Find solution to this puzzle at 21 With 39-Across, T-shirt motto 44 Dry, to Ted Allen of “Queer 12 Always, to Byron www.pridesource.com

26 BTL | June 23, 2016 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com June 23, 2016 | BTL 27