Protests Planned for Drag Queen Story Time in Huntington Woods

Supreme Court Greenlights Trump’s Transgender Military Ban

UPLIFTING POSITIVITY Youth Activist at Detroit’s PRIDESOURCE.COM REC Awarded $10,000, Trip to JAN. 24, 2019 | Free Issue 2704 Creating Change Conference BTL Photo: Kate Gowman

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MICHIGAN CREEP OF THE WEEK Affirmations Continues This is just piling Regrouping Efforts, Asks for on to the harm Community Help this administration has done to LGBTQ COVER people, whether it’s 4 Youth Activist at Detroit’s REC Awarded $10,000, reminding guidelines Trip to Creating Change Conference that aimed to NEWS protect LGBTQ 6 Affirmations Continues Regrouping Efforts, Asks students or banning for Community Help at Monthly Community Chat transgender troops. 8 Alcona County Board of Commissioners Opposes Karen Pence Whitmer’s Order to Protect LGBTQ Community See Page 6 See Page 11 9 First African-American Women to Serve on Oakland County Parks Board 12 Welcoming All Activists: LGBTQ Resources in DEEP INSIDE HOLLYWOOD MARRIAGE HAPPENINGS Detroit 13 Creating Change Detroit Highlights See Page 26 16 Reports: Russians Targeted LGBTQ Community With Disinformation 16 Pence Calls Criticism of Wife’s Anti-LGBTQ School ‘Deeply Offensive’ 17 Pocan Introduces 21st Century President Act to Clarify Women, LGBTQ Americans Can Be President 25 Michigan’s Food Safety Efforts Continue During Federal Shutdown OPINION 10 Parting Glances 10 I’m Positive 11 Creep of the Week LIFE 18 David’s Bridal Says ‘I Do’ to Same-Sex Couples in New Ad 20 Let’s Have a Keke 18 Inclusive Bridal Shop Puts Disability on 28 Deep Inside Hollywood Display 26 Happenings See Page 28 19 Lovepop Cards for LGBTQ People 29 Puzzle & Crossword

VOL. 2704 • JANUARY 24, 2019 • EDITORIAL News & Feature Writers ADVERTISING & SALES ONLINE AT ISSUE 1095 Editor in Chief Emell Derra Adolphus, Michelle Brown, Director of Sales Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 102 Ellen Knoppow, Jason Michael, Drew Howard, Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 101 “Between The Lines Newspaper” PRIDE SOURCE MEDIA GROUP [email protected] Jonathan Thurston [email protected] 20222 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48152 CREATIVE Phone 734.293.7200 Entertainment Editor Sales Representatives Follow us @YourBTL Webmaster & MIS Director Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 106 Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 103 Kevin Bryant, [email protected] PUBLISHERS [email protected] [email protected] Email your op–eds to Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson [email protected] Columnists Feature News Editor Donelle Kremke, 734.293.7200 x 104 MEMBER OF Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Kate Opalewski, 734.293.7200 x 108 [email protected] Michigan Press Assoication Mikey Rox, D’Anne Witkowski, Sign up online to receive our E–Digest [email protected] National LGBT Media Association Gwendolyn Ann Smith National Advertising Representative National Gay & Lesbian Chamber Editorial Assistant Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Q Syndicate Cartoonists Eve Kucharski, 734.293.7200 x 105 Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau [email protected] Our rate cards are available online. All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many Contributing Photographers fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. Andrew Potter, Alexander Godin, Andrew Cohen Copyright 2019 Pride Source Media Group www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 3 Youth Activist at Detroit’s REC Awarded $10,000, Trip to Creating Change Conference COVER STORY

BY EVE KUCHARSKI

or Ruth Ellis Center Development Associate Dwayne Cole Jr., it was just a normal day at work when two supervisors Fasked to speak with him one-on-one. “They asked me these questions about volunteer work that I’ve been a part of and different programs in the community and I just answered,” Cole said. “I didn’t really think much of it and then from there I got an email that said, ‘Hey, you’ve made it past the first round for the Colin Higgins Foundation [Youth Courage Award].’ It’s a national award so I didn’t think I was going to win anyway, but I was flattered to be thought of and then nominated. Then [I realized], ‘Oh my God, this is what [they] were applying me for.’” After receiving news that he made it past the first round, Cole participated in a phone interview and, after a suspenseful wait, got the news that he was one of four winners from across the country. Not only would he be awarded $10,000 but receive an all- expenses-paid trip to the 2019 Creating Change Conference sponsored by the National LGBTQ Dwayne Cole Jr. Task Force, lasting from Jan. 23 through 27. BTL photo: Kate Gowman “I’m just excited about the experience because I hear a lot about Creating Change. I hear that was around 17 years old, his friend suggested pretty much,” Cole said. “So, it wasn’t ever really this kind of vibrant, optimistic person. Like, people can get a lot of information from the that he explore some of the services offered at anything exclusive to me as a person, it was I think of everything as the glass half full, sessions there and a lot of my colleagues at the Ruth Ellis Center. REC is an organization only what was portrayed in the media of how sometimes to the point where people would the Ruth Ellis Center are working some of the whose goal it is to provide both short- and a gay person looks, which is sex work, which is get annoyed by it,” he said with a laugh. “But I suites,” he said. “I’m excited to see what they long-term residential safe spaces and support drugs, which is all of these bad connotations of felt like if you are in a bad time, just thinking have put together and to experience Creating services for homeless, runaway and at-risk being LGBTQ. And I told her that that wasn’t about the negatives and not being hopeful and Change for the first time.” LGBTQ youths. It wasn’t long before things me ... and did not define me.” faithful, you’re only going to see negatives if clicked for Cole at the Center. Though his grandmother’s shift in perspective that’s what you’re looking for. But, if you’re A Long Journey “When I first started going to the Ruth Ellis didn’t happen overnight, Cole said that her always looking for the positive, that’s all you’re Center, I was a part of the out in the system perception of him now is a very positive one. going to find: positivity.” The Colin Higgins Foundation was founded program. That was a program that was looking “Now she understands, and she sees the Now that he’s combatted his own issues with in 1986 to commemorate the life of the into policies for LGBTQ men using foster care growth that I have had since graduating high coming out and homelessness, Cole’s focus is screenwriter, director and producer of the at the time,” he said. “And then, from there, I school,” he said. “When I was in high school, I on aiding REC in its mission to help others in same name. The Foundation supports LGBTQ became a member of their Youth Advisory was depressed, and it seemed like maybe that the Detroit area with similar problems. When organizations like the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Board and then after being a part of their Youth would have been the path that I went down, but asked what those who are unfamiliar with REC Education Network, The Trevor Project and Advisory Board they asked that I become a Peer I never let anything stop me from doing what I should expect before using its services, Cole HIV/AIDS prevention programs and, since Staff. I was a Peer Staff for two years and then felt was right for everyone around me and for was clear, “It’s like a family there.” 2000, has been presenting LGBTQ people across I received the position that I have now which myself, too. So then, once she was able to see “Based off of my own personal experiences, the nation with the Youth Courage Award. is a full-time Development Associate.” that, it was like our relationship got better and just talking to people and experiencing the Winners of the award are LGBTQ youths who Today, Cole is 21 and his responsibilities she sees that I’m improving on myself.” different programs has really helped me to find have “endured overwhelming hardships, yet include aiding with Center fundraising, sharing myself a little bit more. The staff there is really handled themselves with the utmost grace the organization’s goal, aiding with its graphic supportive,” he said. “I was able to have these and dignity.” For Cole, that hardship was design needs and monitoring communications, Uplifting Positivity long-lasting relationships with people, and homelessness. And, by the time he moved in among other duties. Beyond those earned Cole’s outlook today is seemingly one of then they say they’ll still be able to support me with his grandmother at 16, he had to deal career skills, Cole said that REC helped him boundless positivity. When asked how he when I go to school for psychology — because with another issue: she wasn’t fully accepting become a better communicator, too. manages to keep his cheerful attitude despite that’s my passion — that they’ll still help me. of his sexuality. “Over time I developed the skills to even the challenges he’s overcome, Cole said that it’s ... My background was pretty hard, and I have “When I moved in with her I told her that, be able to talk to [my grandmother] ... and a mindset he’s had all his life that’s helped him a supportive family at home, but I know I still ‘Yeah, I’m gay.’ That’s when it all started,” he said. then understand where she was coming from. surpass even his greatest obstacles. have that supporting family at Ruth Ellis in “We didn’t have the best relationship at the time When we had that conversation, she told me “It was kind of hard, actually, having that addition to that.” and I kind of needed to get away from that.” it was only because she was worried about the mindset. Ever since I was younger, I was always Soon after coming out to her, when Cole lifestyle ... but that was all stereotypical ideation 4 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 5 Affirmations Continues Regrouping Efforts, Asks for Community Help at Monthly Community Chat BY JASON A. MICHAEL encouraged, still enthusiastic and still believe in Affirmations,” Flores said. “They still know here were two obvious takeaways from that Affirmations is required, is needed and We’re hopeful. And, most last week’s installment of Affirmations’ is relevant in our community. ... And what ongoing monthly community chats. this also allows us to do is be able to go to “ importantly, we’ve come to TFirst, Affirmations Board President Mike Flores, endowments and foundations and corporate who conducted the chat, wants the community partners and say, ‘Yes, there is still a relevance identify and solidify that to know that the center is continuing to take to Affirmations and we can show you this Affirmations continues to be steps on the path toward financial recovery. because over the last six weeks we received Second, he also put out a request for the almost $89,000.’” relevant in peoples’ lives and community’s help but not just financially. Flores also reported that the board had in the community. Flores said volunteering is a great way to help transitioned from a governance board to a the center. management board and stressed that board “We’re encouraged,” Flores said as he started members are more active at the center than – Affirmations Board” President Mike Flores the meeting. “We’re hopeful. And, most ever and a regular on-site presence. importantly, we’ve come to identify and solidify “If you’re not a subject matter expert in one that Affirmations continues to be relevant in of these key areas that have been identified peoples’ lives and in the community.” A Call to Action and you want to volunteer, we can use you,” he said. “We can find something for you to do. Flores, who was joined by five additional But the biggest block of time throughout the Everyone who wants to volunteer has value members of the center’s 11-member board, meeting was undoubtedly spent talking about including newly elected board vice president to bring to the organization and can benefit the center’s current needs and the board’s plea years ago when this building was built, or even Cheryl Czach, gave a report on the center’s us here at Affirmations. for assistance in the form of volunteers. from 30 years ago from in the basement with financial condition early on in the night. “We thought we were alone,” Flores “We’ve identified several areas where we Jan [Stevenson, founding executive director of “Since December, our reserves are still the continued. “When we had to decide to need people with this particular expertise to Affirmations and co-publisher of BTL], we want same, about $58,380,” Flores said. restructure in November, we didn’t realize that help us,” Flores said. “We’re calling out to the to tap into that institutional knowledge. We In addition, there is nearly $137,000 in the we have a whole community that’s still fully community to say, ‘Where can you help us?’” don’t want to lose that institutional knowledge. Building for the Future Fund. All but $20,000 engaged, that wants to have a dialogue with Flores listed specific areas where the We want to honor that institutional knowledge. that was set aside for general operating us and wants to help us.” center needs help: grant writing, technology, We want to use that particular committee as a expenses, will be used for building and staff development, group development, sounding board as we move forward.” infrastructure issues going forward. And in To volunteer time and services to Affirmations, organizational development, communications, Finally, Flores said the center also needed the last six weeks or so, Flores said the center contact Mike Flores at mflores@goaffirmations. programs and building management. volunteers to help with the planning of the had received almost $89,000 in donations. org or Cheryl Czach at cczach@goaffirmations. An additional call for help was put out for center’s annual Spring Bash which takes place “Really, what this signals, to us, is that org. what Flores called founders and legacy leaders. in March, along with general volunteers as well. the community and the donor base are still “If you are a founder or legacy person from 10 Protests Planned for Drag Queen Story Time in Huntington Woods Saturday BY JASON A. MICHAEL children. It is a testament to the courage of the others and seek to enforce their narrow views members of an LGBT hate group using her Huntington Woods community, and the queens on all.” official Huntington Woods email account. he debate over Drag Queen Story hosting, that this style of event is becoming The group, called Mass Resistance, features Time at the Huntington Woods a staple not just in Michigan, but across the an article on its website about its efforts to end Library continues to rage on as both a country.” How We Got Here drag queen story time in not only Michigan but Tdemonstration and a counter-demonstration TG Detroit is another group calling on its also Alaska and New York. Drag Queen Story Time started in have been planned for this Saturday’s session. members to come out and be a part of the Huntingwood Woods just a little over a year ago. Shortly after creating the ruckus, Iverson The response was immediate when news of counter-demonstration. It has been a success and both kids and parents resigned her commission seat and moved to the demonstration, organized by fringe groups “TG Detroit, as always, stands with those alike have praised the program repeatedly. Lake Orion. going by the names of Mass Resistance and who support transgender rights alongside all There were no concerns until Nov. 17, when “I am concerned that City Commissioner Warriors for Christ, was released. A counter- human rights, and in opposition to knee-jerk Huntington Woods City Commissioner Allison Allison Iverson hasn’t had to face the demonstration was quickly organized by the reactionary dogma that sets up the archaic Iverson wrote a letter to Library Youth Services consequence of her actions,” said Julia Music, Metro-Detroit Political Action Network and religious beliefs of some members of society Coordinator Joyce Krom. chair of Ferndale Pride. “Bringing a group to the Motor City Sisters. as a standard to which all of us must conform,” “I know there is a desperate need for people Huntington Woods that endangers trans people “When Warriors for Christ first levied their said TG Detroit President Samantha Rogers. to understand and accept people that are and children was not the reason the people of threat against the library, MDPAN was one of “Specifically, no one is forced to bring their different,” Iverson wrote in part. “I believe Huntington Woods voted for her. We will come the initial groups contacted for organizing the children to this function. No one is forced to using ‘drag queens’ as a means to aid in this out to guard our lovely drag queens, but these defense of Drag Queen Story Time, and we’re participate. Those who do not wish to view process is a mistake. Children are innocent actions would not be necessary if Iverson had honored to take up the task,” said MDPAN the story telling have the choice not to attend. little beings and we, as a society, should be been representing Huntington Wood’s citizens Media Director Robert Jay. “We strongly Those who do attend do so because they choose banding together to preserve that innocence with integrity.” support the acceptance of all genders and the to. But, typically, this is not enough for the for as long as possible.” At the center of the controversy is Raven promotion of literacy, especially when the paternalistic and puritanical religious right, who Between The Lines revealed in a story last two are tied together in a fun event for young feel it is their right to curtail the freedoms of month that Iverson had corresponded with See Huntington Woods, continued on p. 8 6 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 7 Alcona County Board of Commissioners Opposes Whitmer’s Order to Protect LGBTQ Community BY KATE OPALEWSKI Copies of the resolution will be sent to to BTL. “I didn’t hear any statement state Rep. Sue Allor (R-Wolverine), state from the Commissioners regarding The Alcona County Board of Sen. Jim Stamas (R-Midland), Whitmer a religious exemption, but I imagine Commissioners is asking Gov. Gretchen and the other 82 we will hear from Whitmer to rescind her recent executive counties in the state. some opponents directive signed on Monday, Jan. 7, to In response to the of the order strengthen protections for the LGBTQ board’s decision, arguing that there community. Erin Knott, interim should be religious According to The Alpena News, the executive director at exemptions. The board unanimously passed a resolution Equality Michigan bottom line, on Wednesday, Jan. 16, asserting that, in said, “I agree that the however, is that signing the executive order, the governor legislature should the Governor “circumvented the legislative process” and act without further absolutely has that her actions undermined legislators delay to expand the authority under the in the state House of Representatives and Elliot-Larsen Civil State Constitution to state Senate, who work to represent the Rights Act to include issue the Executive people. sexual orientation Directive and that Whitmer’s directive outlines that it will and gender identity. There is no doubt her interpretation of our state civil help instill policies to “promote public that both Gov. Whitmer and the Michigan rights laws is backed up by federal case confidence in the fairness and integrity Civil Rights Commission acted within law precedent.” of state government” by ensuring all their lawful authority. I would encourage There is an online petition circulating Michigan residents receive fair treatment the board to follow Gov. Whitmer’s in opposition to the board’s decision. in “employment, state contracting and lead and act to protect Alcona County “As families, business owners, and when accessing services from state employees from discrimination.” stakeholders in NE Michigan, we government.” It does not include an American Civil Liberties Union of oppose this action of the Alcona County exemption for religious organizations Michigan Staff Attorney Jay Kaplan Commission Board which will have a that receive state money. said that the “flaw” in the Alcona negative impact on our community as The board’s resolution also reportedly Commissioners’ argument is that this a whole,” the petition states. “In order states that the legislature has not decision was not a “whim.” for this northeastern Michigan region expanded Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil “Federal courts, including the to grow and prosper, we must protect Rights Act to include the “re-definition Sixth Circuit which covers Michigan, the rights and dignity of all residents in of sex.” However, a new interpretation have almost uniformly held that our region. We urge the Commission of the law issued by the Michigan Civil discrimination against LGBT people is to reconsider this detrimental decision. Rights Commission last year, states the a form of sex discrimination, because it Please sign our petition to be delivered to word “sex” in the law means not only is based on societal gender stereotypes the Alcona County Commission Board gender but also sexual orientation and for which LGBT people are not able on February 6th, 2019.” gender identity. to conform,” Kaplan wrote in an email

® Huntington Woods Continued from p. 6

Divine Cassadine, the drag queen who reads to the children. Cassadine said she wishes the demonstrators would “just s t op.” “Love is going to conquer all,” she said. “And in this day and age we have to have acceptance; that’s the only way our culture will survive.” Despite the prediction of a temperature reaching a high of 17 degrees by weather.com, MDPAN is hoping for an enthusiastic turnout for their counter- demonstration. Drag Queen Story Time begins at the library at 3 p.m. Counter- that end, we will not allow the virulent with rainbow flags and signs letting the demonstrators hope to be in position bigotry spewed by Warriors for Christ kids know, ‘You’re perfect exactly the starting at 2 p.m. and to last until about and Michigan Mass Resistance to poison way you are.’” 4:30. their ears and eyes. We will drown out “We’re here to defend the children, their hateful words with messages of The Huntington Woods Public Library is their families and the queen,” Jay said. “To love, affirmation and probably some Raffi located at 26415 Scotia Road. songs. We will cover their hateful banners 8 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com First African-American Women to Serve on Oakland County Parks Board BY BTL STAFF said. “Serving my community has long been a passion of mine. I am excited to get to work ast week the Oakland County Parks & on behalf of my county alongside a wonderful Recreation Commission held its first group of leaders. We can all do something and meeting of the year and introduced I choose to do this.” Lits newest members, Oakland County Quarles was first elected to the Oakland Commissioner Nancy Quarles (D-Southfield) County Board of Commissioners in 1994 and Ebony Bagley. Quarles and Bagley are the before she became a member of the Michigan first African-American women ever to serve House of Representatives. After her tenure in on the OCPR Commission. the state legislature, she was later re-elected “It’s a new day in Oakland County. Together, to the BOC, representing the City of Lathrup we celebrate the diversity that Ms. Bagley and Village and portions of the cities of Oak Park my colleague, Commissioner Quarles, bring and Southfield. She currently serves as chair of to the commission,” said Oakland County the BOC Legislative Affairs and Government Board Chairman David T. Woodward (D-Royal Operations Committee. Oak), who is the first Democratic chairman in Currently a web producer for CBS Detroit, more than 40 years. “Their fresh and valuable Bagley has worked as a teacher and is a former perspective will result in better decisions that program director for Birmingham Public help us to create better parks for everyone.” Schools. She is a staunch anti-cyberbullying “Democrats have long advocated the need to advocate and an Oakland County native who improve county park investments in the more grew up in Southfield, Michigan. populated areas of this county,” Quarles said. “We all pay into the parks funds, and I will work The OCPR Commission was established by for equitable use of those resources to make Public Act 261 of 1965. It is the policymaking parks and recreation programs accessible for board that oversees the system’s 6,700 acres. all the citizens in Oakland County.” OCPR commissioners determine how to allocate “It is truly an honor to be one of the first resources throughout 13 parks and are tasked African-American women to serve on this with making decisions. OCPR is available at commission for Oakland County,” Bagley oakgov.com/parks or by calling 1-888-OCPARKS.

www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 9 Parting Glances

BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

You May Say I’m a Dreamer bout a dozen days ago tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow – at my age how can I be sure? – I was gifted with a pair of John Lennon enchantment glasses. Gold- Arimmed. Sunset orange. Autumn-tinted. Pre-Donald Trump, to be sure. Reflected in my hand-held vanity, two-way mirror, these magic spectacles make me look and feel younger. (To be honest, not an easy thing to do at my gravity-compromised, sag-along- with-me age.) The two-circle Lennon spectacles came rainbow wrapped. Gay tasteful in a box filled with “magic sequins and let’s pretend glitter.” Oh, yes! With a note. And, surprise of surprises! A note written in cursive writing – thanks to the Republicans, rapidly becoming a lost art form – one word: “Imagine!” Underneath the sequins and glitter is a folded patchouli- scented parchment. A map. Headline: “Things Once Happened at Downtown Detroit’s gay intersection. Midnight’s the bewitching moment. Follow! In or out of high heels or leather.” And, in small lavender hand lettering, “Count the years backward. Say, the magic word. Put on these glasses. For a minute or two, be glad you were gay way back then …” Let me be honest. I’m a born skeptic. I arrive 15 minutes early – promptness is the courtesy of kings (or queens, in my case) as the old saying goes – and I discover, to my chagrin, two empty, dimly lighted downtown city blocks. Farmer & Bates. Come on, MoTowners, you’ve got to be kidding! I stop counting backwards at 60, which it turns out, is just a Viewpoint few seconds before midnight. Looking about for safety’s sake, seeing I’m not in harm’s way, I – with just a touch of coming out nervousness – put on my Lennon specs, and … Oh, my stars. Mary, I can’t believe it! Farmer & Bates is suddenly alive with hundreds of tourists I’m Positive eagerly watching from behind street-lined wooden barricades. There are shouts of approval. Loud applause, as one by one, gaudy costume by glorious costume, drag queens by drama queens arrive, turn, bow, pause regally for yet another take of BY JONATHAN W. THURSTON in-your-face grandeur. “You like what you see folks? You bet your sweet straight bippies you do!” chants Lola Lola, pausing grandly before the very HIV story is a sad story. And, generally, it’s always ever since; 3) he and his partner had been HIV-positive since entrance of one of the intersecting streets of several gay clubs. a surprise story for people, something they weren’t around 2005. “This year’s trade, next year’s competition!” expecting. I was diagnosed Jan. 7, 2015, as HIV positive. She blows a kiss to the crowd as imaginary light bulbs flash. EIn January 2014, I was dating a guy in Memphis, Tennessee, Unclean. Filthy. Slut. These were the words I would use to And out of nowhere, blue side of the moon perhaps, a recorded named Andre. We fell fast and hard. That spring, we took a describe myself for most of the year that followed, and, perhaps band lip-syncs “Hello, Dolly.” cruise ship to the Bahamas. But I quickly became very sick, worse, these were the words that guys would use to describe me Even in this imaginary, make believe world of once-a-year mostly flu-like symptoms. I couldn’t keep any food down, to this day on dating apps and websites. Unclean. Filthy. Slut. royalty on parade, there’s got to be a star. Just to be sure it’s and I felt weak all over. The ship’s doctor put me on a lot of When I “came out” online as positive, friends flocked to all for real, I push my Lennon glasses back on my nose. Oh, drugs, but nothing helped. When we got back to land, the offer support. Many gave condolences. Many said they were my. Yes! Of course, it’s Hazel Hobbs arriving by top-down, doctors were just as confounded. A week later, it went away. there for me. Some of the older gays would tell me “at least 1960-something red convertible. The onset of HIV goes like that for a lot of people. A week it’s not as bad as it used to be.” I knew they were trying to be Her gown, a year in sewing. Sequin by sequin. She radiates or two long flu and then nothing. Andre and I moved apart helpful. For me in the moment, it just stung, like I was being class! And chic. Her muscular Prince Charming companion when school started back in the fall – him in Memphis, me told it didn’t matter if I had already thought about killing holds up a sign: QUEEN OF FARMER & BATES! The crowd in Nashville – and we broke up around the holidays when I myself almost daily since my diagnosis. “It could have been realized three things: 1) when I had moved out, his ex had worse,” they said. See Parting Glances, continued on next page moved in; 2) the two of them had been in a relationship again See Viewpoint, continued on next page 10 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com Creep Of The Week Karen Pence BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI The rate of suicide, according to AIDSMap, has doubled for people This is just piling on to the harm living with HIV. It’s not hard to imagine why. At least once a week, guys magine walking into art class one day in grade school and finding that none other this administration has done on dating – and yes, hookup – apps and sites tell me to kill myself. than Karen Pence, wife of Vice President to LGBTQ people, whether it’s I Mike Pence, is your reminding guidelines that aimed to teacher. protect LGBTQ students or banning ® For a lot of kids, Viewpoint transgender troops. Continued from p. 10 believes that person must be a slut if they got such a thing would HIV. They couldn’t possibly have gotten it be pretty exciting, from a romantic partner, right? In my case, regardless of how stop discriminating against LGBTQ students.” Within a couple of months I became that could not be further from the truth. said kid’s parents But the Pences also pissed off Lady Gaga. undetectable, and I’ve learned a lot since then. I still hear from and talk to Andre every voted in 2016. I “To Mike Pence, who thinks it’s acceptable I’ve presented on “cultural HIV” at the Out in once in a while. He is eligible for funding mean, hey, how that his wife work at a school that bans Front Conference at Vanderbilt University, a for medication off and on, so his health many kids can LGBTQ, you are wrong,” Gaga said during few scene conferences, a few guest lectures, fluctuates. Every few months, I’ll hear of him claim that they a recent performance. “You are the worst and a health forum in Michigan in front of getting another AIDS-related illness. And I have a B-level representation of what it means to be a a hundred medical practitioners. I call it worry about him. The older gays are right: celebrity as a Christian. I am a Christian woman and what cultural HIV because, while medicine has I’m very privileged to live in a time when we teacher? Also, her watercolor paintings are I do know about Christianity is that we bear decreased the death rate dramatically of HIV, do have medication that stops the spread of actually really good. no prejudice and everybody is welcome.” the other more sociological factors have only HIV, and I’m even more privileged to have What isn’t good is the school at which That is, of course, not the Pence brand of expanded. the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program so that Pence is teaching. Because that school, the Christianity where being a Christian and The rate of suicide, according to AIDSMap, I can afford that medication (for reference, K-8 Immanuel Christian School in Virginia, discriminating against LGBTQ people go has doubled for people living with HIV. It’s one time my funding didn’t go through, and bans LGBTQ people. No gay teachers. No hand in hand and cannot be separated. not hard to imagine why. At least once a week, RiteAid said the medication for a month’s queer students. No lesbian lunch ladies. They There is some confusion about what this guys on dating – and yes, hookup – apps and supply was $3,000). don’t even want LGBTQ allies working for, means when it comes to freedom of religion sites tell me to kill myself. People come out of But it’s definitely a cultural phenomenon attending or sending their kids to the school. and freedom of speech. Does Karen Pence the blue and ask why I’m endangering society. now. Being HIV-positive isn’t who I am, And people are a little, well, grossed out have those rights? Yep. Can the school legally Sometimes, they actually try to use humor. but it is a part of my identity. And it is for that the Vice President’s wife would take a ban LGBTQ people? Yep. Does reporting on One guy last week said to me, “Y u likin my thousands of other people across the country, job at such an unwelcoming school. It’s worth this story and/or criticizing Pence constitute profile? I dont want your disease LOL.” And, too. It warrants a lot more exposure than it’s pointing out that Pence worked at this same an “attack?” Nope. on the complete other hand, there are people currently being given. school for a dozen or so years back when her It’s not an attack to call someone out for who will go so far as to fetishize people like Every HIV story is a sad story, but I’m husband was a U.S. Representative. So why being awful and hateful. And it’s still not an me, asking how I “got pozzed” and wondering trying to remain optimistic. I’m positive. is it a big deal that she’s going back? attack when you call someone out for being if I could poz them. Because her spotlight is brighter now. awful and hateful when they’re doing it in The language and mythos around HIV itself Jonathan W. Thurston is a Ph.D. student at Her platform is elevated. When she was the name of religion. The funny thing about are often what are the most cringey aspects. Michigan State University and the editor- a Congressman’s wife teaching there was, freedom of religion and speech is that they We live in a society where people are “clean” in-chief of Thurston Howl Publications. while still gross, pretty low-key. But no more. work both ways. In other words, not everyone or “unclean,” where people envision people While he specializes in early modern animal Now she’s doubling down on a school that believes the same shit you do or hates the living with HIV to be covered in lesions and studies in academia, he is currently working very explicitly discriminates against LGBTQ same people you do and when you’re a public cannot be possibly be attractive, and where on a cultural exposé of HIV in 21st century people. And from the very highest reaches figure you’re going to be called out no matter the only people who get HIV are those “who America. He loves reading, ballroom dancing of government that’s being condoned and what you do. deserve it:” sluts. It does not matter to society and frequenting Lansing’s cafes. encouraged, and it’s wrong. So why not teach at a school that welcomes how a person actually contracted HIV. Society This is just piling on to the harm this everyone? Unless, of course, Pence doesn’t administration has done to LGBTQ people, welcome everyone. And, yeah, she has every whether it’s reminding guidelines that aimed right to believe that LGBTQ people aren’t to protect LGBTQ students or banning deserving of equality, but that’s a view held transgender troops. by a smaller and smaller group of increasingly ® Parting Glances Hayworth, Fran, Flo, Uncle Jimmy, Little Not surprisingly, Pence has received hateful and reactionary people. Cling to that Continued from p. 11 Mama, Mack, Drano, Sky, Eve Taylor, Che criticism from the Human Rights Campaign, view if you choose, but don’t be surprised to Che, Fran & Wally, Bookie, Fat Jack, Bessie, the ACLU and GLAAD. get shit for it. – straight and gay – roars its once-a-year Billie Hill. Rosie Bonham, Andy, Sam, “Why not teach at a school that welcomes Mike Pence rejects the idea of even awe-struck approval. Chunga, Bobby Johns, Billy & Maurice, everyone, instead of choosing one that won’t questioning a school’s wholesale rejection I look at my self-winding watch. How Ruthie Ellis … Hugs! Godspeed! Gay today. serve LGBTQ kids, kids of LGBTQ parents?” of LGBTQ people. quickly time runs down when you’re having Gone tomorrow … JoDee Winterhof, senior vice president for “To see major news organizations attacking last-minute fun. Or so it seems tonight. Just policy and political affairs at the HRC told Christian education is deeply offensive to as I reluctantly turn to go, an old familiar Charles Alexander is prolific both as a BTL HuffPost. “The Pences never seem to miss us,” he said in a statement, adding that “this parade passes by. columnist (700-plus columns) and as a an opportunity to show their public service criticism of Christian education in America Somehow gathered for my imagined well-known LGBT community artist (1000 only extends to some.” should stop.” benefit. I’m gently touched. Perhaps one Facebook images). He is a Spirit of Detroit “This sends a terrible message to There’s that pesky freedom of speech thing final farewell with feeling for me. They wave Award recipient and an Affirmations LGBT students,” the ACLU tweeted, while GLAAD again. Criticism must absolutely continue. in gaily passing … I nod nostalgically … CENTER Jan Stevenson awardee. Connect encouraged people to sign a petition telling It’s the bare minimum we can do in the face … Big Red, Jean, Eve, Rusty, The Empress, with him at [email protected]. Pence and Immanuel Christian School “to of injustice. Miss Bruce, Tall Dick, Virgil, Tabu, Rita www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 11 Creating Change Visitors: Detroit's Activism Hot Spots

BY BTL STAFF advocacy organization dedicated to advancing and support groups, and activism projects. The and the University of Wisconsin schools of equality for LGBTQ Michiganders and their group’s aim is to promote positive visibility and medicine to tackle issues like HIV, cancer and ndy Garcia, the director of Creating families. presence of the transmasculine community, tobacco cessation. The organization operates Change, said he wants members of "Our goal is to ensure that all LGBTQ both within the queer community and in the the world’s second oldest black pride, Hotter the community to leave the National Michiganders are afforded comprehensive greater Detroit area. Than July, celebrating its 24th anniversary this ALGBTQ Task Force’s Creating Change protections from discrimination," said year. Inside LGBT Detroit’s #SafeBraveSpace is conference “feeling like they understand what organizers. "In 2019, EQMI will work toward Learn more on Facebook at facebook.com/ where social support is available and members makes Detroit special.” And part of what makes ending discrimination in housing, champion FtMDetroit/. of the community who are impacted by violence Detroit special is the ecosystem of organizations transgender equality, reach 25,000 voters and have access to free counseling. that work and support the LGBTQ community ban conversion therapy." “In many black and brown spaces, being an in the Motor City. A few of which are listed The organization works simultaneously to out LGBT person can be extremely harmful below. educate the public and secure victories by to those that disclose to family. Most African- lobbying the executive branch, the Michigan Americans are social conservatives and still Legislature and local governments on issues have little direct contact with people who like amending the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights identify as queer,” Lipscomb said. “In most of Act to include sexual orientation and gender urban America, there isn’t an institution like identity, as well as policies that promote safe ours that helps people who identify as queer. schools, equitable parenting and LGBTQ health We are in a city with a high concentration and human services. of black and brown people. LGBT Detroit is A workshop titled Around the State in 30 another resource for people, particularly those Days will be held on Friday, Jan. 25, from 10:45 interested in cultural competency.” a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in the Greco room on the 4th floor of the Renaissance Center. The workshop LGBT Detroit is located at 20025 Greenfield will be facilitated by Serena Johnson, director of Road in Detroit. Call 313-397-2127 or visit victim services, and Genny Maze, lead victim lgbtdetroit.org for more information. Corktown Health Center advocate. It will give an in-depth view of what it looks like to provide monthly victim services Corktown Health Center is Michigan’s first statewide in 30 days. Ruth Ellis Center and only health center to focus on the LGBTQ According to the Center’s leadership, it’s hard community. Not only does the health center Equality Michigan is located at 19641 West 7 to put into context the significance of a space provide comprehensive, culturally competent Mile Road in Detroit. For more information, call like the Ruth Ellis Center unless members of care, it helps train the next generation of 313-537-7000 or visit equalitymi.org. the community see it for themselves. That’s why physicians with its partnership with Wayne State the agency, which provides trauma-informed University School of Medicine, Department of LGBT Detroit services for homeless, runaway and at-risk Internal Medicine. Corktown Health Center is FtM Detroit Founded over 20 years ago, this African- LGBTQ youth and young adults of color has located at 1726 Howard St. in Detroit. FtM Detroit is a community-based group American-led LGBT campus has 6,000 square formalized a tour in collaboration with Creating made by and for transmasculine identified feet of space for administrative programming Change organizers on Friday, Jan. 25, from 7:15 Call 313-832-3300 or visit corktownhealth.org. people in the greater Detroit and Southeast and events. It has become the “largest to 9 p.m. at the administrative offices of the Michigan area. The group seeks to strengthen property of a black-owned LGBT center in Center located at 77 Victor St. in Highland Park. Equality Michigan ties among transmasculine identified people in North America,” said Curtis Lipscomb, LGBT REC has established itself in the Detroit the area through social gatherings, discussion Detroit’s executive director. LGBT Detroit community as a place that supports young Equality Michigan is the state’s leading collaborates with the University of Michigan 12 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com people by allowing themselves to be who they The Center recommends using Lyft otherwise. are in an authentic way. TD Auto Finance, longtime supporters of REC, Things to Do While in Detroit Wed, Sat, Sun- 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. “Be open-minded and do not hesitate to will provide volunteers and refreshments during Thur, Fri- 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. ask questions of the staff who will be present,” the tour. s the National LGBTQ Task Force’s said Mark Erwin-McCormick, director of annual Creating Change conference development and advancement at REC. Contact the Ruth Ellis Center at 313-252-1950 moves into Detroit this week, Motown Museum, 2648 W Grand Blvd. “Use this as an opportunity to learn from the or via email at [email protected].> Amore than 3,500 participants will have the 313-875-2264 experiences of staff members and what it means opportunity to explore the Motor City. motownmuseum.org to create a safe space for LGBTQ young people.” Detroit is booming with activity and Beyond the tour, the REC staff has Trans Sistas of Color Project change, including tried-and-true hot spots Tue-Sat- 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. volunteered their time to ensure that there are The Trans Sistas of Color Project aims to for every gender identity, age and interest. safe spaces available in the form of hospitality uplift, influence and impact the lives and well- And like many other big cities that have suites during the Creating Change conference. being of trans women of color in Metro Detroit. grown to embrace a more advanced and open Casinos What separates this group from other local attitude towards LGBTQ people, most of the MotorCity Casino Hotel, 2901 Grand River Ave. Spiritual Hospitality Suite: Hosted by Ryan organizations is that it was founded in 2015 establishments in and around downtown 866-782-9622 Fielder, a manager in the REC Second Stories Detroit welcome all customers – including by and for the people it serves - trans women motorcitycasino.com Drop-In Center and Emani Love, community of color. LGBTQ revelers. activist and organizer. “The programming, the events, the work we There is so much to enjoy and be inspired do, the emergency assistance we provide, it’s by in the largest city in the midwestern state MGM Grand Casino, 1777 3rd Ave. Transgender and Gender Queer Hospitality of Michigan. Here is a list of some of the cool all done by trans women of color,” said Jeynce 877-888-2121 Suite: Hosted by Brandi Smith, TransJustUs Mizrahi Poindexter of TSOCP. “All of these things to do in Detroit right now. coordinator, and Jeynce Mizrahi Poindexter, things are intentional because trans women of mgmgrandetroit.com trans victims advocate at Equality Michigan color are the ones being killed in the streets, Art Galleries and Museums shunned from families and forced into sex work, Carr Center, 311 E. Grand River Ave. Greektown Casino, 555 E. Lafayette St. Youth Hospitality Suite: Hosted by Sterling and are continuously victimized by entities and 313-681-5554 Clemmons, youth service manager at the REC agencies and members of the community. We 313-223-2999 Second Stories Drop-In Center. are one of the most vulnerable populations that thecarrcenter.org greektowncasino.com exists. It can be really difficult for trans women Mon, Wed, Fri- 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. A workshop titled Ruth Ellis Center: of color. It’s a constant fight and we know this Tue, Thur- 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Embedded Activism will be held on Saturday, as trans women of color helping to uplift and LGBTQ Bars Jan. 26, from 4:45 to 6:15 p.m. in the empower other trans women of color.” Briggs Detroit, 519 E. Jefferson Ave. Ambassador Salon on the third floor of the As larger organizations locally and nationally Charles H. Wright Museum of African American 313-656-4820 Renaissance Center. The workshop will be deal with the political issues and the legal History, 315 E. Warren Ave. briggsdetroit.com facilitated by Jessie Fullenkamp, director of barriers, TSOCP handles day-to-day issues 313-494-5800 evaluation and education, and Angelika Lewis, such as helping trans women of color pay Mon- 6 p.m. - 12 a.m., Tue, Sun- 11 a.m. - 12 a.m. evaluation and education coordinator. bills, find housing, get medication and afford thewright.org Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat- 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. More information is provided for guests transportation in the Metro Detroit area. Tue-Sat, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. in the Creating Change registration packets. Sun, 1-5 p.m. REC will provide free shuttle service from the Learn more on Facebook at facebook.com/ Gigi’s, 16920 W. Warren Ave. Marriott at the Renaissance Center in Detroit TSCOPD. 313-584-6525 to the Center for the first 30 people interested. Detroit Institute of Art, 5200 Woodward Ave. facebook.com/gigisgaybar 313-833-7900 Mon, Wed-Sun, 8 p.m. - 2 a.m. dia.org Tue-Thur, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Menjo’s Gay Entertainment Complex, 928/950 W. Fri, 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. McNichols Road Sat-Sun, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 313-863-3934 newmenjoscomplex.com Detroit Artists Market, 4719 Woodward Ave. Mon-Sun, 2 p.m. - 2 a.m. 313-832-8540 detroitartistsmarket.org Woodward Bar & Grill, 6426 Woodward Ave. Tue-Sat, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 313-872-0166 gaybe.am/Cu, Mon-Sun- 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. Heidelberg Project, 3600 Heidelberg St. Other 313-974-6894 Eastern Market, 2934 Russell Street heidelberg.org Sat- 6 a.m. – 4 p.m. The outdoor art environment is free and open to 313-833-9300 the public daily, rain or shine. easternmarket.org

MOCAD (Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit), Pewabic Pottery, 10125 E. Jefferson Ave. 4454 Woodward Ave. Mon–Sat- 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. 313-832-6622 Sun, 12-4 p.m. REC is offering a tour in collaboration with Creating Change organizers on Friday, Jan. 25, from 7:15 to 9 mocadetroit.org p.m. at the administrative offices of the Center located at 77 Victor St. in Highland Park. pewabic.org www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 13 Supreme Court Greenlights Trump’s Transgender Military Ban

BY CHRIS JOHNSON were in place barring the Trump administration from enforcing the transgender military ban. The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday issued All that has changed with the Supreme Court stays on lower court orders against President orders. Trump’s transgender military ban, apparently The Supreme Court grants the stay weeks allowing the policy to go into effect. after the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals issued In orders from the court, the Supreme Court its own order lifting a lower court stay against granted stays the U.S. Justice Department the transgender military ban, which reduced requested in two separate cases challenging the number of orders to three. the ban before the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court Technically, another order against the of Appeals, Karnoski v. Trump and Stockman transgender military ban issued by a federal v. Trump. The court in Maryland stays means still stands, but it’s the Trump’s hard to see how policy against that will be the transgender case for long given service will the Supreme Court be allowed to orders lifting orders go into effect in two other cases. as litigation S h a r o n moves forward. McGowan, legal The orders director for Lambda note U.S. Legal, pointed A s s o c i a t e out the Maryland Justice court order against Ruth Bader the ban is in a Ginsburg, Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor precarious position. and Elena Kagan would have denied the “As a technical matter, there is still one application for a stay. (Since at least five remaining nationwide injunction in place – justices are required for the Supreme Court the ACLU’s injunction in the Maryland case to grant a stay, the order suggests Chief Justice (Stone),” McGowan said. “But we suspect that John Roberts as well as U.S. Associate Justices DOJ will likely be back in federal court in Samuel Alito, Brett Kavanaugh, Neil Gorsuch Maryland renewing their motion for a stay in and Clarence Thomas agree to grant the stay.) light of what SCOTUS issued this morning.” Shanon Minter, legal director for the The Justice Department didn’t immediately National Center for Lesbian Rights, said the respond to the Washington Blade’s request to interpretation of the orders to mean Trump’s comment on what the Supreme Court orders policy can go into effect is “unfortunately” mean for implementation of the transgender correct. military ban. “The court declined to hear the cases now, Laura Durso, vice president of the LGBT which permits our challenges to proceed in Research and Communications Project at the the lower courts, but it also is allowing the Center for American Progress, condemned the Trump administration to enforce the ban in Supreme Court for allowing the transgender the meantime,” Minter said. military ban to go into effect. But Minter added the Supreme Court’s stay “Allowing this dehumanizing policy to order is “only temporary and is in place only remain intact for even one more day gives until the Ninth Circuit issues its decision and credence to a bogus rationale about the fitness the Court decides whether to accept review of transgender people to serve their country,” of that case.” Durso said. “This is the cruel centerpiece of the Also pending before the court were petitions Trump administration’s agenda to prevent the for certiorari calling for the Supreme Court to full inclusion of transgender people in public review in these cases even before the Ninth life. It undermines military readiness and Circuit had rendered a decision. It would be perpetuates the fear across the transgender and a rare move for the Supreme Court to grant allied communities that this government will the cases at this stage without decisions yet not protect them, not even those who would from the appellate courts. sacrifice everything to protect our nation.” The orders note the court has yet to take action on those petitions, but if the court This article originally appeared in the eventually agrees to grant a writ of certiorari Washington Blade and is made available in and hear the cases, the stays will “terminate partnership with the National Gay Media when the court enters its judgment.” Association. At the start of the year, four court orders

14 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com Supreme Court Greenlights Trump’s Transgender Military Ban

www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 15 Reports: Russians Targeted LGBTQ Community With Disinformation BY LISA KEEN and digital media. The second report, The IRA, “Social Media and Political Polarization in the Russian social media operation aimed United States, 2012-2018,” was produced by at helping Republican nominee Donald experts at the University of Oxford and the Trump win the 2016 presidential social media data company Graphika. Aelection included efforts to polarize voters The Oxford report noted that, of the 20 most around LGBTQ issues and, in some cases, liked Facebook pages managed by the Russian pushed LGBTQ voters to support Democratic IRA, one called LGBT United ranked eighth candidate Bernie Sanders. The operation also in terms of the number of likes it received posted a message aimed at lonely LGBTQ — almost 2 million. The LGBT United posts teenagers, an effort that is believed was intended were shared almost 1 million times, prompting to blackmail vulnerable youth. almost 400,000 reactions and drawing 87,500 “It is evident that the campaigns sought comments. to demobilize African-Americans, LGBT A chart in the Oxford report indicates the and liberal voters,” states one of two reports investigation found the Russian IRA spent made public Monday by the U.S. Senate Select about $5,500 on at least 70 ads targeted to Committee on Intelligence. LGBTQ people through websites and mobile “This was attempted through organic apps. More than 80,000 people who saw the ads posts that attacked [eventual Democratic clicked through to reach the IRA’s Facebook nominee] Hillary Clinton. Content referred page. to President Clinton’s 2016 signing into law The largest targets of the IRA political of the Defense of Marriage Act as an attack messaging were African-Americans and on the gay community, and in another, argued conservative voters. Campaigns targeting the discussion that sought to drive some of University of California, Berkeley. that Hillary supports Muslims, who the post LGBTQ community were most abundant and these voters toward Bernie Sanders or third “The fucking lefty scumbags seeded insinuates are anti-gay.” successful during pride month, June, of 2015. parties, patterns of trying to reduce trust in destruction around at UC Berkeley overnight in “Organic post” refers to posts on social “In mid-to-late 2015,” said the report, the political system were more apparent,” said response to the planned speech by a right-wing media, such as Facebook and Twitter, that are ads about being patriotic and LGBT United the Oxford report. “Claims meant to demerit firebrand Milo Yiannopoulos who’s an actual made without using paid services to boost “produced the majority of organic posts.” Hillary Clinton are occasionally peppered into gay! Who’s intolerant now?” stated the post. distribution. “In 2015, there were a total of 4,108 organic this content, but are relatively infrequent. We New Knowledge also noted that some Both reports investigated the attempts by posts from a few of these campaigns. In total, interpret messaging to this group as an attempt IRA personas, such as @MRNyc2015, used Russian operatives to use social media to more than half (2,139) targeted right-wing to increase polarization between liberals and statements like: “pretended to be a liberal spread disinformation about political issues users. ‘LGBT United’ accounted for almost all conservatives around LGBTQ rights, a well- gay man,” to deliver “active voter suppression and to create divisiveness within the American of the rest (1,814 posts).” known wedge issue between these groups.” messages,” including suggestions that “everyone public. Both reports refer to the operatives as According to the report, the IRA messages The New Knowledge report quotes an needs to vote online.” Russia’s Internet Research Agency. One report, were “framed with antagonism toward groups IRA Facebook account posting about the One New Knowledge report chart indicates “The Tactics & Tropes of the Internet Research that are perceived as anti-gay,” including certain controversy surrounding a gay Breitbart that one of the top-performing Instagram Agency,” was produced by a firm called New religious groups and right-wing conservatives. contributor, Milo Yiannopoulos, and efforts accounts created by the IRA was rainbow_ Knowledge, which deals with national security “While there was a limited amount of to ban a speech by him on the campus of the nation_us. Pence Calls Criticism of Wife’s Anti-LGBT School ‘Deeply Offensive’

BY CHRIS JOHNSON Pence’s own anti-LGBT history includes activity outside of marriage (e.g., premarital sex, as signing as Indiana governor a “religious cohabitation, extramarital sex), homosexual or ice President Mike Pence, who’s freedom” law seen to enable anti-LGBT lesbian sexual activity, polygamy, transgender notorious for his anti-LGBT record, discrimination and a U.S. House campaign identity.” responded Thursday to criticism over statement in 2000 indicating HIV/AIDS “Homosexual acts and lifestyles are clearly Vhis wife Second Lady Karen Pence teaching funds should be contingent upon funding perversion and reprehensible in the sight at a school that excludes LGBT teachers and to encourage people to change their “sexual of God,” the employment application says. students, calling criticism of the Christian behavior,” which many have interpreted to be an “Persons so involved cannot be employees of institution “deeply offensive.” endorsement of widely discredited conversion Immanuel Christian School.” Pence made the remarks during an interview therapy. (Pence has since denied that is what Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of the LGBT media with EWTN Global Catholic Network in the campaign statement meant.) watchdog group GLAAD, rebuked Pence on response to reporter Lauren Ashurn’s inquiry Criticism of Karen Pence and her decision Twitter for defending the anti-LGBT policy over the criticism. to teach at the Immanuel Christian School in Vice President Mike Pence called criticism of Karen of Immanuel Christian School. “My wife and I have been in the public eye Springfield, Va., which does not allow LGBT Pence’s anti-LGBT “deeply offensive.” Washington “I’m a Christian and a lesbian who sends for quite a while but I have to tell you, to see students or families to enroll and won’t employ Blade photo by Michael Key my children to Sunday school, so to act like major news organizations attacking Christian LGBT applicants, emerged this week after all ‘Christian education’ is anti-LGBTQ is education is deeply offensive,” Pence said. “We media outlets reported on the school’s policy a student’s home is contrary to biblical teaching, disingenuous and dangerous,” Ellis said. have a rich tradition in America of Christian and Karen Pence’s decision to return there after which includes “condoning sexual immorality, education and, frankly, religious education 12 years to teach art. homosexual activity or bisexual activity,” This article originally appeared in the Washington broadly defined. We celebrate it. The freedom The parent agreement for Immanuel In the employment application, teachers Blade and is made available in partnership with of religion is enshrined in the Constitution of Christian School states the institution can refuse and other staffers must agree to not engage the National Gay Media Association. the United States.” admission and discontinue if the atmosphere of in “moral misconduct,” such as “heterosexual 16 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com Pocan Introduces 21st Century President Act to Clarify Women, LGBTQ Americans Can Be President

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan introduced Currently, 18 U.S.C. 879 makes it a criminal act to threaten the 21st Century President Act last week, which would change to kill, kidnap or inflict bodily harm upon the President, a outdated legal definitions in the U.S. code to clarify that former President, a candidate for President or a member of Presidents do not have to be men and their spouses do not their families, while referring to Presidents as men and to their have to be wives. spouses as wives. In recognition of the fact that it is now the “In 2016, one of the two major party candidates for President 21st Century, the “21st Century President Act” seeks to amend was a woman with a husband and in 2020, for the first time 18 U.S.C. 879(b)(1)(A) in the following manner: in history, we may have more presidential candidates who are women than men, as well as a potential LGBTQ candidate who “(1) the term ‘immediate family’ means— is married,” Pocan said. “The U.S. Code should not assume that Presidents will be men or that they will only marry women, with respect to subsection (a)(1) of this section, the wife especially when describing which people will or will not be spouse of a former President during his a former President’s protected by federal law. While this language may have been lifetime, the widow surviving spouse of a former President accepted when the original law was enacted, it does not reflect until her the surviving spouse’s death or remarriage, and the America of today and I look forward to ensuring that federal minor children of a former President until they reach sixteen law recognizes this reality.” years of age”

Michigan’s Definitive LGBTQ-Friendly Wedding & Anniversary Guide MiLGBTWedding.com

A PROJECT OF To learn more contact [email protected]

Call 734-293-7200 ext. 22

www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 17 or the first time ever, David’s Bridal has featured a same-sex couple in a new ad. The Pennsylvania-based company is taking a more diverse marketing approach Fafter filing bankruptcy late last year, according to Ad Age. “We wanted to make sure this spot represented what David’s Bridal Says we see from brides today,” David’s Bridal’s chief marketing officer Liz Crystal told Ad Age. “We value every type of ‘I Do’ to Same-Sex bride.” The ad, titled “Rewrite the Rules,” emphasizes non- Couples in New Ad traditional brides, such as female couples, or brides who are already mothers. The idea of “rewriting the rules” will help the brand communicate its offerings to all types of brides, according to Crystal. The current 30-second spot that features queer brides dancing will air in TV spots and will appear on social media.

Inclusive Bridal Shop Puts Disability on Display

he White Collection Bridal Boutique in Wilson wrote on Twitter. Portishead, England, has taken some Laura Allen, the boutique owner, told Today much-needed steps toward inclusivity. Style in an email that she’s pleased with all the TThe boutique put up a window display attention the current display has gotten. featuring a mannequin in a wheelchair wearing “We love the fact that it’s so simple compared a wedding gown, which isn’t seen every day, to our window display before, yet it portrays and supporters are sharing their excitement such a powerful message of inclusion,” Allen on social media. said. “We certainly didn’t expect (it) to get the “The new wedding shop in town has a attention that it has, but we have loved the wheelchair using mannequin and it shouldn’t positive comments from passersby and hope be exciting but it’s the first time I’ve ever seen it means that one day things like this are just disability portrayed in a shop window,” Beth the norm.”

For a comprehensive list of LGBTQ friendly vendors that are looking to help you with your event, visit MiLGBTWedding.com – a project of Between The Lines. The 2019 LGBT Wedding Expo is planned for October 2019. Watch this space for details.

18 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com Lovepop Cards for LGBTQ People

s much as everyone loves Valentine’s Day, let’s face it - trying to find the perfect gift Afor your loved one after the holidays can be tough. Whether it’s for a new partner, a long-term Valentine, or even a friend, Lovepop’s Valentine’s Day cards are intricate 3D paper sculptures that your loved ones won’t want to throw away. And there are a number of great LGBTQ-friendly cards. They can be used as an addition to another gift, or as a gift in itself. Think of it as a bouquet of flowers that never dies.

For more information, visit lovepopcards.com/collections/ valentines-day-greeting-cards.

www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 19 Disney-Turned-‘Pimp’ Star Reflects on Coming Out, Talks Blurring Gender Lines and What James Dean Taught Her

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI

eke Palmer is not a girl, not yet – oh wait, she is a woman. It happened so fast, but here we are: With her squeaky-clean Nickelodeon and Disney KChannel days behind her, Palmer disappears into her latest rough-and-buff turn as the eponymous lesbian street hustler anchoring the Lee Daniels-produced drama “Pimp,” now streaming on most digital platforms. Hair pulled back into a mohawk-shaped waterfall of braids and buzzed on both sides whilst presenting a chiseled physique and altogether hard aesthetic, there’s nary a trace of Palmer, Child Star. Palmer’s work after her breakout role as 11-year-old Akeelah Anderson in the 2006 drama “Akeelah and the Bee” has epitomized the makings of a precocious multi-hyphenate: beyond her film career, which also includes 2012’s “Joyful Noise,” the 25-year-old Illinois native starred on TV’s “Scream Queens,” a Ryan Murphy production, and can currently be seen on the Epix spy drama “Berlin Station”; her theater roles include the televised “Grease: Live” and Broadway’s “Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella” as Cinderella herself (she was the first actor of color to play the role in this particular production of the princess classic); she has one proper studio album, her 2007 debut “So Cool,” and another on the way; and in 2017, she wrote a book, “I Don’t Belong to You: Quiet the Noise and Find Your Voice,” documenting her journey thus far. In 2015, Palmer came out as sexually fluid in the video for her song “I Don’t Belong to You.” In the clip, she’s seen in bed with a man but ends up at the house of a woman, played by fellow singer Cassie. Here, Palmer reflects on the LGBTQ community’s reaction to her coming out and discusses embracing her masc energy, what James Dean taught her about sexuality, normalizing queer black characters and an irksome double standard in the bisexual community.

Keke, one thing is for sure: “Pimp” is not an episode of Nickelodeon’s “True Jackson.” (Laughs) Oh my gosh, it’s definitely a total different project and different tone. I just felt like I was really stepping outside myself, that’s for sure.

Photo: Vertical Entertainment Was that intentional? Were you craving something

20 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com grittier? was definitely me. Just because myself, I have Step outside myself, for sure. I started elements of high masculinity just as much developing this project right after “True as I have elements of high femininity, and Jackson,” like a year after kind of doing the in Wednesday, I really got to explore those same thing. I think TV naturally can be a elements in myself a lot more. I enjoyed little bit repetitive, and when you’re doing a that because I think women are strong, and children’s network, it can really only go so far though Wednesday is a lesbian, I don’t think (with) subjects and content matter and what masculinity defines your sexuality. I think you can talk about. So, for me, I was really just that’s you as person. looking for something that would allow me a Can you give me an example of how you feel challenge as an actor. you’ve embraced your masculinity? What was the biggest challenge working on this I can’t say I can think of one where it’s glaringly film? obvious, but I think in general I don’t ever The biggest challenge was letting go – letting choose what people would expect me to say go without fear of doing a character that’s so or how people would expect me to respond to different from yourself. And it’s an intense anything as a woman or as a black person or role; you really kind of have to let go. And it’s as anybody in general. As a person I don’t feel not a positive (role): Wednesday has a lot of like I fit into many boxes of identity. negative dynamics around her that she’s been You played TLC’s Chilli in the Lifetime biopic dealing with throughout her life. Doing it was not necessarily hard but actually being in that “CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story.” She doesn’t kind of headspace for so long was difficult. strike me as someone who is straight-up feminine. There are a lot of unfortunate things going on Yeah, not at all. And that’s the thing, it doesn’t around her, but the least of her worries is her have to be as obvious as, oh, this person’s sexuality. That’s refreshing. wearing their pants low and they got a big top Exactly. on. Masculinity can be as small as you sitting with your legs open. Was playing someone who’s a lesbian a draw? I can’t say her sexuality itself was a draw, but It can be an attitude. what you’re saying (was). I like the character as It can be an attitude. Masculinity is different. a whole. I liked everything about her. I think It can be just how you approach a situation, what attracted me to her the most was her or energy you’re putting off in this particular strength. This kind of character being a lead moment. I think I’ve had that many times; character and being female is not what we see especially when I’m creating boundary often, so that’s what attracted me the most. lines, I’ve definitely had it. When I’m trying Just that she was tough, and she was cool, and to pursue something platonic with another I didn’t really think too much about who she male, sometimes I will be masculine to let slept with, although I was delighted by the them know, “Hey, you my homeboy; what’s love story between her and her girlfriend. But good?” I just saw it simply as a love story as opposed to a gay love story and a dynamic between How do you hope this movie speaks to queer women that we haven’t seen in that kind of black women? way. It wasn’t oversexualized, and I really Man, I just think it allows opportunity to get loved the way that her sexuality was displayed more knowledge in accepting one another. I in the film. It wasn’t exploited. don’t think the black community has been as hard on lesbian women as much as they’ve been And by depicting her sexuality in a matter-of-fact on homosexual men. But one of my cousins is way, it helps to normalize it. just like Wednesday, and so I think for us it Somebody might say she’s a quote-unquote really just more so maybe can take the light off “stud” or she’s not a femme – there’s a lot the fact that this is a gay person, and more so of language that’s used in the community. this is a person and really wrap ourselves into Having said that, Wednesday has both. That’s this specific person’s world, not a gay person what I love about Wednesday, and I really but this person that’s not just defined solely by tried to make that apparent. Wednesday is these aspects of her life. Really just give this masculine and feminine. She has elements of character a human opportunity to stand on both, and she and her girlfriend share those her own. Because like I said, a lot of times with positions with each other, so I feel like it’s the these characters, they’re just supporting roles, same way in all relationships whether you’re they’re not the lead, they’re not someone you same sex or not. And again, that’s what I would feel for; they’re most likely someone loved about the film: We weren’t just doing you get to judge and they’re kind of a spectacle. something that’s stereotypical; we weren’t just So that’s what I love about this movie: We’re giving you this hard-up, one-note (character) normalizing something that has been around and she’s just flat – no, she’s a human. and has been normal for years, but now we’re just giving it the opportunity to breathe and Was her gender fluidity written in the script? the light to shine. I think her being tough was a part of the script, but the nuances brought to it, that See Keke, continued on p. 22 www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 21 my music will mirror that. ® Keke Continued from p. 21 I don’t even really have a question, but I just need to acknowledge that, with “Joyful Noise,” When you first came to terms with your own you worked with Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah sexuality, did you have role models? Anyone in in the same movie. the business from the LGBTQ community you Man, I was so happy that I got to do that, looked to for inspiration? OK?! Because it was just so cool. I love Queen Maybe when I was like 18, 19, I was kind Latifah – that was my third acting project of like, “What does this mean?” But I think with her. And working with Dolly Parton was growing up in L.A., you kind of feel OK to just so, so special and awesome because she’s be yourself. I think the kind of energy of the such a sweet, sweet woman and she would culture of L.A., or Hollywood, is that it’s OK bring us fudge bars on set. to be yourself and that it’s OK to experience Homemade fudge bars? things and find who you are. So, I didn’t feel like I needed someone to Homemade fudge bars. And I would be so look to in order to be comfortable with that, scared on set when I had to do my kissing scene but at the same time I think it was more so and she would just be there to comfort me. I’ve being comfortable with myself as opposed to always been a quote-unquote “tomboy” and me looking outwardly for comfort. It was just also into girly stuff, but I’ve always felt more kind of me saying, “OK, it’s not a big deal; this comfortable in more comfortable clothes – in is who I am and I can be who I wanna be and sportswear, I always felt more comfortable, chill date who I wanna date,” and it was just being like that – and I remember asking her, “How are more relaxed about all of that. you beautiful like this every day? How can you But like I said before, I don’t think there is do this?” She said, “I just made a choice when I much fear maybe for a woman when it comes was younger, and I wanted to be that way, so I to being bisexual or being fluid or being Keke Palmer stars in “Pimp.” Photo: Vertical Entertainment get up every day and I make sure that it’s the way that I’m presented.” queer or whatever anybody calls it. I think in fluid and that was the first time I had ever regular conversation it happened to slip out that regard, maybe I had an easier time. And I remember just thinking that was so seen or heard that term. I thought it was that she was married to a woman. What I amazing, and that was kind of my first lesson then my family is not typical in terms of that: really cool that it was a male who was open loved about her is that she said, “But I dated My mom has always said when I was young, in “we are what we repeatedly do.” That was and being honest about something like that in men for many years; I just happened to find something she wanted to be a part of who before I even thought of any of that stuff, that that era. I remember when I saw that I really true love with this woman.” And I loved that if her kids were (LGBTQ) she would just want she was – we know Dolly Parton as being loved it because I think often I feel like it’s because that’s what life is. We put so many fabulous 24/7, and it’s not an easy thing to do, the person to be cute! (Laughs) But that’s not much harder for males to have that idea than labels on stuff to be gay, straight, dah dah dah everybody’s story. so I really just loved that about her. I loved it is for women. dah, when in reality, in the ancient times, it learning about her during that production. I But you were also a young star who was on People assume when a man dates another was seen as very special when you could find would love to be like that. shows for kids on Nickelodeon where I imagine man he can’t date another woman, and I’ve love with the same sex. And in the Native But then you think of all the time and energy it the expectations were high to be – had many friends and many relationships American community it was called “two with people who I felt like that was a really big spirit” and I think in our Western culture takes…. Perfect. Yeah, I felt it more there in that regard crutch for them in being OK with their own we work so hard to define everybody and Oh, child! than in terms of my sexuality. identity because the reality was they weren’t everything that we lose the soul. Do you see yourself as a role model for queer Did being a child star ever stifle your sexuality? in the closet, they weren’t hiding. They did I think that’s what I also loved about “Pimp.” It like men, but they did like women. And the isn’t about the label. She found love in this little black girls? Mmm… I don’t think that it stifled my unfortunate thing about it was that a lot of girl and they found protection in each other as sexuality. I think other things stifled my That’s such a hard one. I can’t tell someone what women couldn’t accept that (he was with children, so I mean, that’s where they found to see me as, but there are certain things that I sexuality, like my idea of who I had to be or men), so when I saw that I remember seeing love. It’s not about what their label is, it’s about what type of young woman I was, how people feel could be communicated better in the world that thing with James Dean and I really loved the fact that they found love. And I feel like and so I use my platform for that. When I did viewed me. Honestly, I never felt stifled by – I it because I’m like, “What’s the problem if a people should stop trying to make everybody think I felt maybe confused by it at a certain my song “I Don’t Belong to You” I talked about guy likes both?” fit into a box and just let people live their life. that a lot. I talked also about gender fluidity, that time, but just as confused as I would’ve been Define themselves the way they choose. in general with understanding my feelings There’s a double standard there. you as a woman aren’t defined by A, B, C and You have new music and visuals on the way D, that you as a man aren’t defined by A, B, C with dating and all that kind of stuff. I hate it. But I allowed my journey to be my own this year. And it’s been exciting to see more out and D. and, like I said, I grew up in a community of What kind of attention did “I Don’t Belong to LGBTQ artists like Troye Sivan and Hayley Kiyoko I speak a lot on being a black female, being a female, being a millennial; if any of those people where many of my friends were also You” get you from queer women? Were more express their queerness without reservation... gay or they were fluid and we didn’t really put slipping into your DMs? things attract somebody to say, “I like what Oh yeah, I love Hayley! she says, she’s a role model to me,” then of different things on ourselves in terms of our (Laughs) Yeah, sure! I think a lot of people sexual identity. We was just kind of like, “You Will your sexual fluidity influence the narrative course that’s cool. But I don’t try to think too were kind of like, “Oh, I knew it,” or something much about being a role model as much as I know, I’m going on a date with so-and-so, I’m like this. And that’s always funny. I think if and visuals of your upcoming project? doing this.” It wasn’t seen as anything more think about being myself and speaking on the anything would be quote-unquote “obvious” I haven’t thought about it just yet. With the than just us being ourselves. And maybe that’s issues that are important to me. it would just be my openness as a human visuals that I have, a lot of them are just kind the millennial way. Maybe I got born in the being. I truly believe sexuality is a spectrum. of dancing or little bitty things here and there. As editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBTQ prefect generation. I believe you’re meant to find love wherever it But if I feel like there is the opportunity to wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a Yeah, I got on the wrong boat. I got on the one finds you, so if it happens to find you (with) say something, then I always will. Just like multitude of superstars, including Cher, Meryl before you. the same sex, what a travesty it would be that when I did “I Don’t Belong to You,” it was a Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. His work has you denied it because you’ve been walking statement piece. If I’m trying to specifically also appeared in GQ, Vanity Fair and Billboard. (Laughs) I’m telling you: These millennials around your life the whole 10 years being a say something, then yes, because again I feel Reach him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi. are accepting. I read something as a teen that heterosexual. like my sexuality is who I find love with, so com and on Twitter (@chrisazzopardi). was telling me how James Dean was sexually I worked with a director once, and in just 22 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 23 CAGE FREE 24 / 7 HAPPY HOUNDS

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BY BTL STAFF level of confidence in the safety of the state’s every day to make sure the food served at food supply.” Michigan restaurants, school lunch rooms LANSING – Since Dec. 22, the federal MDARD and local health departments and hospitals is safe and wholesome,” said government has been partially shut down, respond to all complaints and conduct Meghan Swain, executive director of the affecting some services and duties of federal routine, risk-based inspections every day Michigan Association for Local Public agencies, including the U.S Food and Drug to help ensure our food supply is safe. They Health. “We are proud of the role we play Administration and the U.S. Department also partner with the Michigan Department as an integral part of Michigan’s food safety of Agriculture. During this time, food of Health and Human Services and public assurance system.” inspectors from the Michigan Department health officials at the local level to identify As part of MDARD’s regular inspection of Agriculture and Rural Development as and respond to foodborne illness outbreaks, process, inspectors may take random well as food sanitarians from Michigan’s and conduct recalls when food products are samples of various food products to 45 local health departments continue to identified as a potential source of foodborne test for foodborne pathogens at the conduct food safety inspections to protect illness. department’s Geagley Laboratory. If a public health and the safety of the state’s MDARD inspects grocery stores and foodborne pathogen — like listeria, E. coli food supply. other food establishments, processing or salmonella — is found, then MDARD “Ensuring the safety of the state’s food facilities and wholesale food operations; will ensure the product is removed from supply is paramount to protecting public while local health departments inspect commerce and work to address the source health and helping to grow Michigan’s restaurants, cafeterias and other food of the problem. $104.7 billion food and agriculture service operations at schools and hospitals “A seamless food safety regulatory system economy,” said Gary McDowell, MDARD throughout Michigan. These inspections that involves many regulatory layers on director. “Although food safety programs work to ensure food safety rules and the federal, state and local levels is key to are not at full capacity on the federal regulations are enforced, and to identify preventing foodborne illness and protecting level, MDARD food inspectors and food and correct any problems found, thereby public health,” McDowell said. “We hope sanitarians from Michigan’s local health protecting public health and food supply. our federal partners are back to business as departments are on the front lines across “Local health departments, along with usual soon, which will bring all food safety Michigan every day to maintain the high- MDARD, are the boots on the ground efforts up to full capacity.”

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To learn more contact [email protected] Call 734-293-7200 ext. 16 www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 25 socorro@hilltopcounseling. Alex Brooks on Drums, Greg Cook on org. Hilltop Counseling, 115 W. Bass and Special Guest. Northern Lights Maumee St.,Adrian. 313-909- Lounge, 660 W, Baltimore,Detroit. 248- 5408. standwithtrans.org. 445-1277. northernlightslounge.com. ‘Southern Comfort’ Auditions at hilltopcounseling.org. The Novi Home Show is Back! Stagecrafters Second Stage Theatre January 25, 2 p.m. Suburan Collection Tuesday, February 5 Showplace, 46100 Grand River Royal Oak’s Stagecrafters Second Stage Theatre will be Stand with Trans 2018 Support Ave.,Novi. 586-752-6381. gmonette@ Groups – Lake Orion / Oakland allseasonscommunications.com. holding auditions for the musical, “Southern Comfort” County 7 p.m. Free. For parents on Sunday, Jan. 27, and Monday, Jan. 28, at 7 p.m. at the of transgender kids. St. Mary’s 42nd Ann Arbor Folk Festival @ Hill In The Hills Episcopal Church, Auditorium January 25, 6:30 p.m. Get Baldwin Theatre, located at 415 S. Lafayette in downtown 2512 Joslyn Court,Lake Orion. Ready to Find Your Folk! The annual Royal Oak. 248-391-0663. stmarysinthehills. Ann Arbor Folk Festival returns for two org. standwithtrans.org. dynamic and different nights of folk and “Southern Comfort” tells the story of Robert Eads, a roots music. The Ark, 316 S.Main St.,Ann transgender man and his chosen family of friends, most Arbor. 734-763-TKTS. theark.org. Thursday, February 7 of whom are transgender during the last year of his life. Juliana Huxtable 5 p.m. She Detroit Zoo Kicks Off Wild Winter Featuring a folk and bluegrass score, the musical is was is an American artist, writer, Weekends February 2, 10 a.m. Wild performer, and musician. Winter is a fun way to experience the first produced at the New York Public Theatre in 2016 and Exploring the intersections magic of the Zoo in winter. The Detroit is the first musical to focus on the lives of transgender and of race, gender, queerness, Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road,Royal Oak. technology and identity. Michigan detroitzoo.org. gender non-conforming people. Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann 53rd Annual Detroit RV and Camping Director Jay Kaplan, who by day is the Project Staff Arbor. 734-668-8397. stamps. Show February 6, 2 p.m. The Michigan Attorney for the ACLU of Michigan’s LGBT Project states umich.edu. Association of Recreation Vehicles and that he’s hoping “to cast actors and singers of diverse gender Pride Night at Thunderbowl! Campgrounds is sponsoring the 53rd 7 p.m. Meet & Greet First Annual Detroit RV & Camping Show. identities, expressions and ethnicities.” Thursday of every month, All types of recreation vehicles, nearly 400 RVs, will be displayed. Suburban Kelly Clarkson at Little Caesars unlimited bowling, shoe rental, Performance dates are April 26 through May 12, Thursdays private room, private bar Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Arena Feb. 21 area, drink specials, billiard Ave.,Novi. 586-752-6381. novihomeshow. through Sunday. For more information about the musical and room, 250 foot video wall. com. marvac.org. auditioning, contact Jay at [email protected]. As part of her “Meaning of Life Tour,” Grammy Award- Thunderbowl Arena, 4200 Allen A John Williams Celebration! February Road,Allen Park. 313-928-4688. 10, 3 p.m. For five decades, Leonard winner Kelly Clarkson will make her way to Detroit for thunderbowl.org. Slatkin has championed the diverse music of America. This three-week festival of the erotic arts all in one evening! the midwestern leg of her show. Also, she’ll be joined Friday, February 8 begins with a cross-country musical ART ‘N’ AROUND Featuring poetry, art, music, burlesque by performers Kelsea ballerini and Brynn Cartelli who Wanda Sykes at the Detroit travelogue of sorts from Morton Gould, Flint Institute of Arts 12th Annual and more! Tangent Gallery, 715 East Music Hall 8 p.m. Wanda Joan Tower, Leonard Bernstein and Virgil Community Gala January 26, 6 p.m. Milwaukee Ave.,Detroit. 248-445-1277. were Grammy-nominated and season winners of NBC’s Sykes is an American actress, Thompson, plus Ferde Orchestra Hall, Community Gala is a diversity initiative facebook.com. “The Voice” respectively. Find out more about the comedian and writer. She was 3711 Woodward Ave.,Detroit. 313-576-5111. presented in conjunction with the first recognized for her work dso.org. exhibition openings of Vanessa German: performance by going online to ticketmaster.com. Tickets as a writer on “The Chris Rock Carrie Mae Weems February 14, 5 p.m. Miracles and Glory Abound and Engaging Show,” for which she won a For over 30 years Carrie Mae Weems, African Art: Works from the Dr. Horn THEATER start at $29. Primetime Emmy Award in 1999. through the use of image, text, film and Collection, and the celebration of Black Stagecrafters Presents If/Then January Detroit Music Hall, 350 Madison video, has created a complex body of History Month. Flint Institute of Arts, 25, 8 p.m. What if? At the heart of every St.,Detroit. 313-887-8501. work that centers on her overarching 1120 E. Kearsley St.,Flint. 810-234-1695. choice we’ve ever made lies this question. musichall.org. commitment to helping us better flintarts.org. What if we had chosen differently? How understand our Michigan Theater, 603 Amanda Williams and Andres L. would our lives be changed? Baldwin Night is an opportunity for all LGBT Theatre, 415 South Lafayette,Royal Oak. people and allies to come play a board Saturday, February 9 E. Liberty St.,Ann Arbor. 734-668-8397. Hernandez January 31, 5 p.m. A visual OUTINGS stamps.umich.edu. 248-541-8027. stagecrafters.org. game, drink coffee and socialize with Cougar Hunt Presented by Tito’s artist who trained as an architect, Amanda Friday, January 25 other LGBT individuals. Java Hut, Handmade Vodka 8 p.m. All you sexy Appalachian Spring February 14, 7:30 Williams’ practice blurs disciplinary Williamston Theatre Presents ‘To Quiet 165 W NIne Mile,Ferndale. 248-632- distinctions. She employs color as a January 25, 8 p.m. Having 31st Creating Change Conference cougars come out for a fun night to crown p.m. In the second week of programs the Quiet’ 8274. [email protected]. Ferndale’s Queen Cougar for 2019. Any highlighting American music, Leonard way to draw attention to the political suffered great loss and heartbreak in her 2019 6:30 a.m. The National LGBTQ Task complexities of race, place and value in Force’s 2019 Creating Change Conference ladies interested in strutting their stuff Slatkin leads Adagios for Strings by life, Kathy, now middle-aged and alone, Wednesday, January 30 for Ferndale Pride, come on out! Winner Samuel Barber and Cindy McTee, cities. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty is a woman on the edge. Williamston convenes in Detroit. We are excited to St., Ann Arbor. 734-668-8397. stamps. Affirmations Senior Koffee Clatch! 1 p.m. receives prizes and becomes queen. Copland’s Appalachian Spring and Theatre, 122 S. Putnam Road,Williamston. host our annual national movement umich.edu. gathering in the Motor City. Detroit A discussion and networking group for Soho, 205 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248- Leonard Bernstein “Age of Anxiety” 517-655-SHOW. info@williamstontheatre. Marriott at Renaissance Center, 400 people 45 and older. Affirmations, 290 W. 542-7646. ferndalesoho.com. titosvodka. Symphony. Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Erotic Poetry and Music Festival at org . com/events. Ave.,Detroit. 313-576-5111. dso.org. Renaissance Drive West,Detroit. 313-568- Nine Mile Road,Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Tangent Gallery February 23, 8 p.m. The Phantom of the Opera Returns! 8000. marriott.com. creatingchange.org. goaffirmations.org. Come join us for an eclectic celebration Rainbow League Bowling! 7 p.m. This Monday, February 11 Saturday, January 26 is a fun bowling league and provides Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups a great opportunity for anybody to – Macomb County 6:30 p.m. All LGBT Community Chat 11 a.m. Saturday become acquainted with bowling. The youth are welcome to attend this free LGBT Chat is an on going social discussion 2018-2019 season celebrates our 26th group. Dakota High School, 21051 21 group meets every week to discuss season. Lodge Lanes, 46255 S. I-94 Mile Road,Macomb. 586-723-2700. issues LGBT people face. Coming out, Service Drive,Belleville. 734-697-9178. chippewavalleyschools.org. dating and much more. Every Saturday [email protected]. lodgelanes.com. at 11 a.m. Java Hut Ferndale Michigan, rainbowbowlingleague.com. 165 W. 9 mile,Ferndale. 248-632-8274. Tuesday, February 12 Ann Arbor Pride Happy Hour [email protected]. Serving Up Knowledge: Queering Sunday, February 3 Black History Month 12 p.m. Bring a Hosted by the Jim Toy Community Center, Monday, January 28 Stand with Trans Wyandotte Support lunch and join us for our session on Group for Trans Youth and Parents of Queering Black History Month. Open ‘Phantom’ Cast to Perform Benefit those interested in donating to Ann Arbor Trans Individuals 4 p.m. Free. Parent to all OU students! OC Rooms 128-129, Concert for Affirmations, Broadway Support Group information, contact [email protected]. Pride are invited to stop by at the event, mix Cares 6 p.m. Cast members of the facilitator Kim Tooley, 734-747-4363. national touring production of ‘The and mingle and get to know local Ann Arbor LGBTQ leaders Katie Scott and Jason St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 2803 Phantom of the Opera’ will perform a 1st St.,Wyandotte. 734-747-4363. special concert ‘Next to Normal’ to benefit Morgan. Tickets are $35 and include two drink vouchers, appetizers and entry into standwithtrans.org. Affirmations and Broadway Cares/Equity MUSIC & MORE the event. The center is located at 319 Braun Court in Ann Arbor. Find out more at the Fights Aids. The Loving Touch, 22634 Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups Jazz & Soul Singer Sky Covington & Woodward Ave.,Ferndale. 248-820-5596. – Adrian-Lenawee County 6:30 p.m. Club Crescendo Live Every Thursday community center’s Facebook page. thelovingtoughferndale.com. Free. For parents of transgender kids. Night at Northern Lights Lounge Contact facilitator Socorro Sevilla, MSW: LGBT Game Night 7 p.m. LGBT Game January 24, 9 p.m. Jimi Blues on Keys,

26 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com This unique theatrical event will use live ‘Reap the Grove’ by Caity-Shea Violette Wanted Dead or Alive February experiences of our Detroit community February 1, 8 p.m. An estranged family 15, 7 p.m. The Experts in Mystery to gain insight into how privilege has reunites for their mother’s final days. Entertainment are now performing live both oppressed and unified beautiful “Reap The Grove” is a poignant and public and private interactive murder and complex identities in 21st Century darkly funny exploration of partnership, mystery dinner shows in Livonia and Meet Artist Vanessa German America. The Marlene Boll Theatre, 1401 transgenerational trauma, and the surrounding areas throughout Michigan. Broadway,Detroit. tasiopeg@udmercy. anticipated grief of death with dignity. Burton Manor, 27777 Schoolcraft Road. Vanessa German is a sculptor, painter, edu. detroitmercyarts.com. Matrix Theatre Company, 2730 Bagley [email protected]. St.,Detroit. 313-967-0599. info@ grimprov.com. writer, poet and activist based out of the THE HOW AND THE WHY by Sarah matrixtheatre.org. ‘Treem’ Michigan Premiere February 1, A2CT Junior Theatre Workshop: Youth Homewood neighborhood in Pittsburgh, 8 p.m. Two female evolutionary biologists ‘Angels in America’ – Parts I and II Choreography and Movement February Pennsylvania. Her varied works — which share a bold, contrarian approach to their February 8, In this two-part epic, Prior 16, 1 p.m. Ann Arbor Civic Theatre will male-dominated field, but the younger Walter, a young man living in NYC in 1985, hold a workshop on choreography and explore the U.S.’ history of violence, hate scholar challenges the older woman’s is diagnosed with AIDS. His boyfriend, movement for young actors, as a part of work with a radical new theory.Theatre Louis, struggling to cope with the disease Civic’s theater education series. A2CT and materialism and how it relates to NOVA, 410 W. Huron,Ann Arbor. 734-635- and his own fears, abandons him. Hillbery Studio Theatre, 322 W. Ann St.,Ann Arbor. current societal issues — will be on display 8450. [email protected]. Theatre, 4743 Cass Ave.,Detroit. 313-577- 734-971-2228. a2ct.org. 2972. theatreanddance.wayne.edu. in an exhibition called “Miracles and Glory Abound” at the Flint Institue of Arts. Lasting from Jan. 27 through April 20 of this year, German will attend the opening of her exhibit on Sunday, Jan. 27, from 1 to 2 p.m. FInd out more information about the event at flintarts.org. Ferndale Cougar Hunt Presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka,

January 25, 8 p.m. Andrew Lloyd the house where Poe is reputed to have not quite make the final cut. N’Namdi cougars 35 years and older are encouraged Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera” composed Center for Contemporary Art, 52 E. Forest to swing by to SOHO Ferndale on Saturday, makes its triumphant return to Detroit Ave.,Detroit. 313-831-8700. nnamdicenter. as part of its North American Tour. ‘The Raven.” Detroit Repertory Theatre, org. cabaret313.org. Feb. 9, for a night to crown Ferndale’s Queen Cougar. Critics are raving that this breathtaking 13103 Woodrow Wilson,Detroit. production is “bigger and better than 313-868-1347. [email protected]. A2CT Auditions for Now.Hear.This. “Any ladies interested in strutting their stuff for Ferndale Pride, come on out,” write ever before.” Detroit Opera House, 1526 detroitreptheatre.com. January 27, 7 p.m. Ann Arbor Civic Theatre announces auditions for its Second Stage event organizers. “Winner receives prizes and the distinct honor of dethroning Kristine Broadway St.,Detroit. 313-237-SING. Cabaret 313 Presents University of broadwayindetroit.com. production of Now. Here. This., with book Michigan Musical Theatre Seniors by Hunter Bell and Susan Blackwell, and Vidojevski and becoming Ferndale Pride’s official cougar.” The House on Poe Street at The Detroit January 26, 7 p.m. As the University of music and lyrics by Jeff Bowen. Children’s The event lasts from 8 to 11:30 p.m. Find out more information on the SOHO Ferndale Repertory Theatre January 25, 8:30 Michigan Musical Theatre seniors prepare Creative Center, 1600 Pauline Blvd,Ann p.m. Gothic ghosts encounter modern for their annual Theatrical Industry Arbor. 734-971-2228. a2ct.org/audition. Facebook page. monstrosities when twin sisters inherit Showcase in New York City, they discover songs that they fall in love with but do American Privilege February 1, 7:30 p.m.

www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 27 Deep Inside Hollywood BY ROMEO SAN VICENTE Nico Tortorella is coming Fossil hunting with Kate soon with “Fluidity” Winslet and Saoirse Ronan It’s not every day that a niche cable hottie You already know Kate Winslet and you’re comes out the way Nico Tortorella did. The finally figuring out who the staggeringly snackish co-star of “Younger” and co-host talented Saoirse Ronan of MTV’s bizarrely addictive (“Mary Queen of Scots”) “How Far is Tattoo Far?” is, even if you still can’t (the show where frenemies quite pronounce her name. blindfold each other and But soon you’ll get a fresh commit heinous acts of chance to learn the name tattooing as revenge) didn’t Francis Lee, the director just casually shrug into whose beautifully queer gayness. No, Tortorella did it independent drama, up in grand style, by coming “God’s Own Country,” out as non-binary (pronoun won the World Cinema usually “they” but seems fairly Dramatic Special Jury chill about it), polyamorous, Award for Directing married in complementary at Sundance 2017, as wedding gowns to their well as Best Film at the non-binary bisexual partner British Independent Film Bethany Meyers, and then Awards. He’s got a new going on “The Wendy Williams movie in the works called Show” to joyfully explain it “Ammonite” starring the Kate Winslet. Photo: KathClick everybody. Obviously, we’re aforementioned A-listers, fans now. Which means we and we think it’s poised to will be hunting down a little film called be the next contender in the lesbian fave “Fluidity” from director Linda Yellen when it sweepstakes. Winslet will star as 19th-century gets itself out of post-production and onto the paleontologist Mary Anning (credited with queer film festival circuit. It would appear to be making important scientific discoveries in the about a bunch of Millennials looking for love Jurassic marine fossil beds along the English and intimacy in New York, and finding out Channel), with Ronan as the young woman that they’re all… fluid? Look, we don’t really Anning develops a relationship with during a know. But we’re extremely ready for Nico’s red seaside convalescence. With credits like this in carpet look. the mix, we’re guessing awards and stuff, and a lot of windswept English natural beauty. It shoots in March, even though we’re sort of “Queer as Folk” getting the ready for it right now. We’ll just make do with Bravo reboot? watching “Carol” for the 13th or 23rd time until this one’s ready. It appears that it’s time to inflict “Queer as Folk” on a whole new generation. The 1999 UK series, created by Russell T. Davies, the one Gregg Araki presents that launched Charlie Hunnam’s career, and “Apocalypse” soon spawned an extremely popular and hilariously hate-watchable Showtime series set in the Veteran indie filmmaker Gregg Araki wildest, sparkliest Pittsburgh you’ve (n)ever (“Mysterious Skin”), pioneer of the New seen, might be returning to American television Queer Cinema, has a new series coming to thanks to Bravo. Davies is already on board as Starz in March. It’s called “Now Apocalypse”; an executive producer, though there’s no cast he co-wrote it with Vogue.com sex columnist set up yet and no word on any other details Karley Sciortino (Viceland’s “Slutever” series) either. Listen, make it happen, Bravo, because and he’s got heavy-hitter co-producers Steven we’re going to watch; in fact, we’re into it all the Soderbergh (“Logan Lucky”) and Gregory way, but when it shows up we do hope everyone Jacobs (“Magic Mike XXL”) on board. As usual on the creative team understands that we have it’s populated by a sexy young cast – Avan Jogia “Pose” now and the “L Word” reboot in the (“Twisted”), Kelli Berglund (“Lab Rats”), Beau works, and “Drag Race” and queer characters Mirchoff (“The Fosters”), and Roxane Mesquida and queer narratives on other programs and (“Kaboom”) – and set in a fractured version of the entire queer internet to keep us entertained, Los Angeles where everyone is chasing love, so a little trio of gay white twinks is, frankly, sex, money and fame, until people start having from the olden times. What we’re saying is… prophetic dreams about dark conspiracies and, y’all better werk. well, the apocalypse. Whatever, it’ll be hazily glamorous and there’ll be old Cocteau Twins Romeo San Vicente is hard at work erasing songs on the soundtrack, right? We’re ready. binaries.

28 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com 40 Director Kazan 10 “Whip It” star who cohosts 41 Type of hole 20-Across 42 Worker on Broadway 11 Singer Dobkin 43 Ghostbusters role 12 Pussy ___ of punk rock 44 Apollo’s plaything 13 Becomes Jell-o 45 Susan’s role on “Fued” 21 Wheels, so to speak 46 Johansson kisser Bullock 25 Remembering the S&M, perhaps 48 Slight advantage 27 War partner 50 Verdi work adapted by John 28 Julianne of “The Hours” 52 Like “Beauty and the Beast” 30 “Kiss of the Spider Woman”’s 57 Shaped like balls William 60 Broadcasting company that airs 31 Polish up the copy 20-Across 32 Like a fruit ready to eat 63 Bert’s longtime companion 33 Lawyers’ charges 64 Stadium namesake Arthur 34 Russian saint 65 Isn’t getting any younger 35 Pride member 66 Ceremony at Beth Simchat Torah 36 Sri Lankan cricketer who cohosts 67 Laurel of laughs 20-Across 68 Wise guy 38 Rep on the street 69 They hang from utility belts and 41 Gay, even to heteros under them 45 Gymnast’s perch 70 Mall bag 47 Dykes on Bikes, e.g. “What’s Up?” Documentary 71 Love of Lesbos 49 “What the Dead Remember” writer Harlan 20 Documentary series that Down 51 “Cease!” on the seas Across explores LGBTQ cultures around 1 Plods along 53 Style some hair, in “Hairspray” 1 Samurai’s libation the world 2 Target before shooting off 54 Second name in cross-dressing 5 Sites for three women in a tub 22 Sends a nude selfie, maybe 3 Obama birthplace, in a Trump lie 55 Frida’s husband 9 Benjamin Britten’s Peter 23 Edmonia Lewis work 4 Decree from the queen 56 Oxygen and nitrogen 14 Wasn’t straight 24 “Nuts!” 5 Rippon or Mattis 57 Silence for Tchaikovsky 15 Sushi ingredient 26 Cable car 6 Roz portrayer on “Frasier” 58 Chocolate sandwich 16 Stan’s sidekick 29 Ex of Etheridge 7 Voice in a loft 59 Disengage, as a bra hook 17 Potent opening 33 Shakespearean manuscript 8 Shoot your wad 61 Words in an analogy 18 Paintings and such, to da Vinci 37 Barrie’s lake 9 What Emily Dickinson put out 62 Converse at OurTime, e.g. 19 “Cats” was based on his kitty lit 39 Autobahn car

www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 29 Find over 300 Non-Profit Listings Serving Michigan’s LGBTQ Online @ pridesource.com

AIDS/HIV Oakland University Gender Fair Michigan & Sexuality Center PO Box 6136 There are dozens of AIDS/HIV [email protected] Plymouth, MI 48170 Get Listed, Promote MICHIGAN'S LGBTQ ANNUAL MAGAZINE organizations and resources listed oakland.edu/gsc 877-432-4764, 313-556-2300 248-370-4336 Your Events at PrideSource.com. Here are just fairmichigan.org 2018 - 2019 FREE • ONLINE • IN PRINT E N three of them: Eastern Michigan Facebook.com/fairmichigan2016 You can add or update O F G A G L S E M University any listing by going to O E O N AIDS Walk Detroit LGBT Resource Center Know Your RIghts Project PrideSource.com and clicking T T Contact info@aidswalkdetroit. emich.edu/lgbtrc Outlaws U-M student group on Yellow Pages. Once you org or 248-399-9255 for more 734-487-4149 [email protected] submit your listing, our staff information. The walk takes place The Lawrence Tech LGBT 734-995-9867 will contact you to confirm INCLUDES your information. OVER 1,000 this year on Sunday, Sept. 15, 8:30 Resource Center LGBTQ-FRIENDLY You can add your event to BUSINESSES & a.m. at the Royal Oak Farmers ltu.edu/student_affairs/lgbt.asp ORGANIZATIONS Market Wayne State JIGSAW Older Adults the Pride Source Calendar Facebook.com/groups/ SAGE Metro Detroit online and in print by going to PrideSource.com Macomb County STD Clinic WayneStateJIGSAW 290 W. Nine Mile Rd. Ferndale, MI and clicking on Calendar, 27690 Van Dyke [email protected] 313-578-6812 then “Add Event.” Send Warren, MI 48093 sagemetrodetroit.org any press releases and SHOP THE RAINBOW 586-465-9217 Facebook: SAGE Metro Detroit From the Publishers of Support Equality Vendors health.macombgov.org/ Community Centers announcements to editor@ www.Pridesource.com pridesource.com Health-Programs-HPDC- Michigan has nine active LGBTQ HIVAIDSCounselingTesting community centers, with a tenth Political planned in Lansing. Here are The LGBT and Allies Matrix Ryan White HIV/ three of them. Caucus of the Michigan AIDS Program Democratic Party Find a digital version of PrideSource Magazine 120 Parsons Street Jim Toy Community Center Facebook.com/TheLGBTA- Detroit, MI 48201 Ann Arbor CaucusoftheMDP online under Our LGBT Yellow Pages 888-226-6366 jimtoycenter.org. Stonewall for Revolution 248-545-1435 facebook.com/jimtoycenter facebook.com/ matrixhumanservices.org/ or follow them on Twitter @ stonewall4reolution programs/ryanwhite/ JimToyCenter. Find these resources online 319 Braun Court 19641 W. 7 Mile Rd. in Detroit UNIFIED - HIV Health and Ann Arbor, MI Professional Groups Adoption Services 313-537-7000 Ext 107 Beyond 734-995-9867 AIDS/HIV Hotlines Detroit Regional LGBT [email protected] AIDS/HIV Organizations 3011 W. Grand Blvd. Suite 230 Chamber of Commerce Detroit, MI 48202 LGBT Detroit facebook.com/TSCOPD/ Alzheimer’s Association P.O. Box 32446 Animal Shelter 313-446-9800 Detroit Detroit, MI 48232 Anti-Violence miunified.org lgbtdetroit.org. detroitlgbtchamber.com Youth Archives/Collections Michigan HIV/STD Hotline facebook.com/lgbtdetroit 1-800-DET-LGBT Campus; Student and Alumni Groups 800-872-2437 @LGBTDetroit. Ruth Ellis Center Cancer Support Groups 20025 Greenfield Road 77 Victor Street, Highland Park, MI Ties Like Me Choruses Detroit, MI 48203 Professional networking events Community Centers Advocacy Phone: 313-397-2127 [email protected] third Weds. 5:30 - 8 p.m. Employee Resource Groups Equality Michigan Facebook: Ruth Ellis Center TiesLikeMe.org 313-252-1950 Families and Parents 19641 W. 7 Mile, Detroit, MI Affirmations Suits And The City Foster Care Ferndale 313-537-7000 Lansing, MI Ozone House Foundations and Funders equalitymi.org goaffirmations.org [email protected] Hotlines & Switchboards Facebook.com/equalitymichigan facebook.com/Affirmations/ 102 N. Hamilton Street suitsandthecity.org Ypsilanti, MI Labor Union or follow them on Twitter @ Legal Organizations GoAffirmations. 734-662-2265 Campus 734-662-2222 Museums 290 W. Nine Mile Road Transgender Music Groups Ferndale, MI Currently there are 19 FtM Detroit Stand With Trans National Organizations organizations listed as active online 248-398-7105 Political Organizations facebook.com/FtMDetroit/ Farmington, MI at pridesource.com/yellow pages. Professional Organizations [email protected]. standwithtrans.org The following are some in the Religious & Spiritual Legal 248-739-9254 southeast Michigan area: FtM A2 Ypsi Senior Living American Civil Liberties Seniors [email protected] Union of Michigan Social/Community Organizations U-M Ann Arbor facebook.com/ftma2ypsi/ Spectrum Center Jay Kaplan, Staff Attorney, LGBT Sports [email protected] Project Substance Abuse spectrumcenter.umich.edu 2966 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI Transgender Michigan Transgender Groups/Services 734-763-4186 aclumich.org 23211 Woodward Ave. Women’s Health 313-578-6800 Ferndale, MI Youth Services [email protected] transgendermichigan.org 800-842-2954

Trans Sistas of Color Project 30 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com January 24, 2019 | BTL 31 32 BTL | January 24, 2019 www.PrideSource.com