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AIDS WALK DETROIT STEPS OFF SUNDAY

Lawmakers Planning Ways to Block Trump’s Trans Military Ban

Grand Rapids Shelter Creates Designated Space for Trans Guests

Peter Spadafore’s Run for Lansing City Council

LGBT Immigrants FREEDOM THROUGH Among DREAMers Facing Uncertainty FEMININITY Fauci: More Resources Tyson Ritter on ‘Freeing’ Needed to End Global Experience as a Crossdresser HIV/AIDS Epidemic and Supporting His Lesbian Sister

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM SEPTEMBER 14, 2017 | VOL. 2537 | FREE

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS HAPPENINGS

18 Freedom Through Femininity NEWS 28 ‘One-Stop Shop’ for Trans Healthcare Offered This Weekend 4 Lawmakers Planning Ways to Block Trump’s Trans 28 MDARD Announce Grant Opportunity for Food Processing, 24 AIDS Walk Detroit this Sunday Military Ban Food Hub Development Be sure to check out the best LGBTQ events in the region. 4 Grand Rapids Shelter Creates Designated Space for 28 Affirmations LEAD Institute Accepting Applications through Trans Guests Sept. 22 5 Peter Spadafore’s Run for Lansing City Council 29 Birmingham Street Art Fair Benefits Common Ground 9 LGBT Immigrants Among DREAMers Facing Uncertainty 29 Stand With Trans Seeks Support Group Facilitators 9 Take Action: Michigan Civil Rights Commission Meeting 10 YWCA Project Provides SAFE Services in Genesee FRIVOLIST SUPREME COURT County 16 Lawsuit Seeking Gay Protections Under Title VII Reaches Supreme Court 16 DOJ Argues Before Supreme Court for Baker who Refused to Serve Gays 17 Fauci: More Resources Needed to End Global HIV/ AIDS Epidemic OPINION 12 Parting Glances 12 Viewpoint: Jay Kaplan 16 Lawsuit Seeking Gay Protections 13 Creep of the Week: Scott Lively Under Title VII Reaches Supreme Court LIFE 20 Prove How Jacked You Are (Even If You Don’t Look Like It) at These 7 Fitness Challenges 18 Tyson Ritter on ‘Freeing’ Experience as a Crossdresser and Supporting His Lesbian Sister 16 DOJ Argues Before Supreme Court 20 The Frivolist for Baker who Refused to Serve Gays 22 Cool Cities: Ann Arbor See Attorney Jay Kaplan’s 24 Happenings Viewpoint p. 12 26 Classifieds 27 Puzzle and Comic

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Copyright 2017 Pride Source Media Group www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 3 NEWS Lawmakers File Grand Rapids Shelter Creates Designated Space for Trans Guests Amendment to BY KATE OPALEWSKI Early this fall, Mel Trotter Ministries in Grand Rapids is set to open what appears Block Trump’s Trans to be the first, and so far only shelter space As a society, we should all be very bothered of its kind in Michigan designated for the that anyone has to face the dangerous reality of Military Ban transgender community. “ MTM has always served the transgender living on the streets and putting their life at risk population, but what became clear to BY CHRIS JOHNSON, WASHINGTON BLADE the Mission from those experiences and because they have nowhere else to go. in conversations with advocates for the Now that Congress has returned from transgender community was the need for a August recess, lawmakers are in discussions designated space to best serve this population. – Dennis Van Kampen about a legislative response to thwart President ” For the last year MTM has had a pilot Trump’s ban on transgender military service, program space where among others, the difference between a person ending up according to Capitol Hill sources and LGBT transgender guests were staying. on the streets or in a shelter is due to a lack advocates who spoke to the Washington Blade “It was successful and the need began to of relationships. MTM has become the safety on condition of anonymity. grow in such a way that we decided the next net in the community for anyone who is Action could come in the U.S. Senate as soon step was to create a designated space for a experiencing homelessness, and that includes as this week when the chamber begins debate population that is so often vulnerable and the LGBTQ population.” on the fiscal year 2018 defense authorization marginalized,” said Dennis Van Kampen, All guests at MTM are offered safety, bill, a major defense policy bill that could be CEO at MTM, which according to the shelter, food and the basic essentials for a a vehicle for overriding Trump’s directive to transgender individual questions and to hear healthy life. Additionally, each guest has Mission’s website exists to demonstrate the about their first-hand experiences,” he said. the Pentagon to ban transgender people from compassion of Jesus Christ, through rescue the choice to enter a restoration program the armed forces. Poindexter said she was clear that “our based on their barriers to achieving stable and restoration for anyone experiencing trainings are not for people to feel they have As the Washington Post reported, Sens. hunger and homelessness. housing and finances. These services include Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Susan Collins to change their stance on their religious job readiness, housing readiness, addiction “Not only were they intentional, but beliefs or to completely understand what (R-Maine), who championed efforts in 2010 they are also committed and dedicated to recovery, housing first, computer labs, for the legislative repeal of “Don’t Ask, it means to be transgender. This is to help medical clinics, ministry and relationships making this happen,” said Jeynce Poindexter, them understand that you have a duty morally Don’t Tell,” filed an amendment Monday to transgender victims advocate at Equality and community. the defense authorization bill targeting the and ethically as a professional and a service It takes approximately $10 million in cash Michigan. Poindexter contacted Adrienne provider. When this community comes in transgender ban. Meanwhile, Rep. Jackie Goodstal, vice president of programs at MTM and gifts every year to sustain the building, Speier (D-Calif.) and Susan Davis (D-Calif.) contact with you in that role, your duty is to programs and services that we provide. MTM about a transender client she was working do your best to provide adequate support and are crafting standalone legislation along the with that is experiencing homelessness does this through a network of individuals, same lines. equally moral service to everyone.” corporate, foundation and church donors. and had been turned away from other area MTM also consulted with staff and The plan in the Senate could work despite shelters. However, as the needs increase so do the costs Republican control. With Collins support volunteers from the Grand Rapids Pride and MTM always welcomes new donors to “Many times we hear ‘We’re going to Center, who Van Kampen said have been and the entire Democratic caucus support do this,’ but people never follow up. She support the ministry. of the measure, 11 more Republicans would “really supportive from the start of this journey “Our mission and vision are clear. As did. It was the most beautiful thing. This is that MTM is taking.” MTM also received be needed to obtain the 60-vote threshold to a deliberate act of love and inclusion and Christians we are called to demonstrate the overcome a likely filibuster. Any number of direct feedback from other individuals who compassion of Christ to anyone experiencing diversity and respect and it gets no better are a part of the transgender community. the Republicans who objected to Trump’s than that,” said Poindexter, who traveled to homelessness, period. We are striving to help transgender military ban – either the substance “There is great value in diversity. What people leave homelessness for good. If a MTM with Serena Johnson, director of victim we have learned, however is that certain or the process – could be candidates, such as services at EQMI, to learn more about their larger model for other organizations develop Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.), Orrin Hatch populations are more comfortable and out of this, then we will be humbled,” said mission, to see the space that they currently therefore more successful when they create (R-Utah) or Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). use for housing transgender guests and to Van Kampen. But one LGBT advocate said even a vote that and maintain their own space,” said Van “There is a lot to learn from the life of provide feedback on the new space. Kampen, pointing to other designated falls short of the 60-vote requirement would “It is very important to us that we are Jesus as recorded in the scriptures. We are still be helpful from a political standpoint if spaces at MTM for families with children, simply trying to love people and walk with opening this space with intentionality in unaccompanied youth, elderly guests at least a majority of senators were on the better understanding this community and how them in the same way he did. As a society, we record in opposition to Trump’s transgender suffering from physical or mental illness, should all be very bothered that anyone has we can best serve them,” said Van Kampen, and others. military policy. adding that EQMI was invited to come in and to face the dangerous reality of living on the “At a minimum, we want a majority of the “We do not create these spaces to segregate streets and putting their life at risk because provide training to MTM’s frontline staff. people, rather to do what is best to serve the Senate, or a supermajority of the Senate, to say A four-hour training session was focused they have nowhere else to go. The problem of they disagree with the president’s approach, needs of the guests and to accomplish our homelessness is too big for one organization around education inunderstanding not only vision of ending homelessness one life at a they disagree with a ban on trans service, and the transgender community, but the entire or policy to solve. But it is not so big that if so that’s the minimal we’re going to try to get, time through the power of Christ. Our number we all come together we cannot solve it.” LGBTQ community. Van Kampen said one goal is safety and security for all,” he said. and if we can get a little more, that’s what we attendees were impacted by the staggering want,” the LGBT advocate said. “We have found that most people Mel Trotter Ministries is located at 225 Commerce statistics of homelessness, assault and suicide experiencing homelessness do not enter Avenue SW in Grand Rapids. Call 616-454- One lingering issue about the plan is the that affect the transgender community. homelessness due to a lack of money, at 8249 or visit www.meltrotter.org/home for more scope of the amendment. One option, a non- “It was also really helpful for staff to least not at first. They enter because of a information. have a safe non-judgmental space to ask a lack of relationship and community. Often, See Block Trump Ban, page 14

4 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com The Face of Progress Peter Spadafore’s Run for Lansing City Council

BY JONATHAN THURSTON so that the city can better represent the people of Lansing. He plans to work with the rest of LANSING – Six years ago, Peter Spadafore the city council and the new mayor to develop was a member-elect for the Lansing School a shared vision – one that encompasses a Board. Now, after serving as the successful new bridge of communication between the President of the Board, Spadafore is running residents and the city council. for Lansing City Council, and he has a vision. He says, “You send your taxes downtown, Spadafore is a fourth-generation Lansing and sometimes you feel like you’re getting resident, and, during his time as an MSU your money’s worth, and sometimes you Spartan, studied Social Relations and Policy, don’t. I want everybody in this community becoming one of the Distinguished Young who’s paying attention to feel like there is a Alumni by the Michigan State Alumni vision for why they’re sending those dollars Association in 2015. “I’ve been committed to downtown.” this community for a long time,” he says. A Spadafore has always been an advocate for major part of his dedication to community is LGBT inclusivity in the Lansing area, and he evident in his work with the Lansing School intends to keep inclusivity on the table for Board. When he originally ran for the school discussions in the city council. board six years ago, he did not see clear goals “The mayor’s always been very supportive,” for progress for education in the community or Spadafore says, “and all of the candidates for even the district’s role in serving both students mayor are as well, and I’d like to work with and residents. those folks to make sure that we keep that a priority, and keep Lansing a welcoming community.” As Spadafore moves forward with his campaign, he is anticipating many of the challenges he will face in the council. One of the major concerns, he says, is overcoming inertia. “Doing things the way we’ve done them is always easier than changing and trying to do them differently.” For Spadafore, the challenge is to find people who do know the best way to move forward “and listen and try to construct that vision out of multiple inputs, whether it’s from neighborhood groups, or parent groups, or firefighters, or other members of city council.” Spadafore urges Lansing area residents to get involved in this vision. “Go to your neighborhood meetings. Go to a city council meeting. Come find me at a coffee hour. We can do what we can do to try and pull input Peter Spadafore from the community, and take the input that we receive. But it takes everybody. You know, your voice can’t be heard if you’re Spadafore has always been an not speaking up.” He encourages people to “take advantage advocate for LGBT inclusivity in of the fact that you can communicate with the Lansing area, and he intends your leaders in unprecedented ways: email, Twitter, Facebook, text messages, in person, to keep inclusivity on the table for even on the phone. All of those things. Take advantage of those opportunities, and really discussions in the city council. make sure your voice is part of the discussion. You’re not always gonna get your way 100 “In the last six years, we’ve spent a lot of percent of the time, but it’s important that you time working on creating that vision, and weigh in. I think that’s how we get the citizens putting the pieces into place to allow that to buy into that shared vision, and help craft vision to flourish over time,” he says. that shared vision for the future of Lansing.” However, now that Spadafore is moving on Peter Spadafore’s website can be accessed through to city council, his vision has only expanded. Seeing flaws in the present disconnect between peterspadafore.com. He welcomes feedback city and its people, he is fighting for a new through his email [email protected] or standard of transparency and communication his phone at 517-325-3898. www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 5

NEWS NEWS LGBT Immigrants Among DREAMers Facing Uncertainty Take Action: Michigan Civil BY CHRIS JOHNSON, WASHINGTON BLADE Rights Commission Meeting In the aftermath of President Trump’s decision to nix an Obama-era immigration program allowing young, undocumented BY BTL STAFF immigrants to stay in the United States, On Sept. 18, the Michigan Civil Rights Commission Tony Choi doesn’t know his fate – will consider a request to take action on anti-LGBTQ but realizes one possibility is he’ll be discrimination. The request was submitted by Equality deported to South Korea. Michigan and 37 other LGBTQ organizations. Speaking to the Washington Blade by Radical special interest groups supporting discrimination phone while taking part in a rally just are mobilizing in an attempt to bully the commission into outside Trump Tower in New York City, inaction. It’s critical that pro-equality Michiganders make Choi said he felt uncertainty since news their voices heard by showing up at this meeting from 4-7 reports emerged Trump would phase out p.m. at the Capital Tower Building, 110 W. Michigan Ave., Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, Suite 800 in Lansing. or DACA. Equality Michigan asked the commission in July to issue “I’ve had a few weeks to think about an interpretive statement to clarify that the prohibition against it, but for the first two weeks, I was sex discrimination in the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act incredibly stressed out that my life was includes protection against discrimination on the basis of swinging on a pendulum, and I felt like gender identity and sexual orientation. I couldn’t do anything about it,” Choi Tony Choi is an undocumented immigrant who obtained relief under DACA. Photo courtesy Tony In their request, EQMI pointed out that there is a lack said. “I didn’t know what could happen.” Choi of clarity in current law that leaves both employers and Choi, a gay 28-year-old native of Pacific Islanders group called 18 Million rise of the transnational crime gang MS- employees, landlords and tenants, and a host of others unsure Seoul, South Korea, came to the United Rising, has manifested itself physically. 13, whose members are principally of of what state civil rights law covers. If accepted, it would States as a child in 1998 with his family Among the ailments he cited were not Central American origin. clarify the ambiguity that exists surrounding the scope of as an undocumented immigrant. When being able to sleep more than four hours Trump made the decision on the day sex discrimination currently prohibited by the ELCRA and former President Obama created DACA at a time, sinus trouble and stiffness in Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said bring Michigan law into alignment with the growing body in 2012, Choi obtained documentation his neck. would be the deadline before he’d amend of understanding from federal judges and legal scholars. under the program. “I felt like my body was falling apart, a 2014 lawsuit pending before federal In order to ensure that it is considering all points of view, A graduate of Berea College in just like everything in my world was,” court to end DACA through litigation. the commission solicited public input. Kentucky, Choi is one of an estimated Choi said. “Everything that I had built But Choi, citing calls from faith According to EQMI, the interpretative statement being 800,000 immigrants in DACA as well in the past five years would be coming leaders, members of Congress – even requested would make it clear that anti-LGBT discrimination as 75,000 LGBT immigrants who are to an end.” Republicans – to maintain DACA, is unlawful in Michigan, clarifying the legal responsibilities eligible for DACA, 36,000 of whom are The Trump administration announced rejected the idea litigation was of employers and individuals and giving notice to victims of enrolled. They’re known as DREAMers Tuesday it would phase out DACA responsible for Trump’s decision and discrimination that there are remedies available. based on legislation known as the over a six-month period ending March said the president capitulated instead “The Michigan Civil Rights Commission has already DREAM Act, which would grant them 5. Although no new Employment because of internal pressure. issued a report concluding that anti- LGBT discrimination legal status. Authorization Documents will be “We’re here, I think, because Trump ‘exists and is significant’ in Michigan,” said Nathan Triplett, Potential deportation to South Korea granted, DACA recipients with such is caving into the influences within director of public policy at EQMI. “The Commission has the unless Trump reverses course or Congress authorization will be allowed to stay in his administration that are very anti- legal authority and, in light of their own factual conclusions, passes an immigration bill allowing him the United States until that paperwork. immigrant,” Choi said. “As you can see the moral responsibly to act on anti-LGBT discrimination.” to stay in the United States weighs After that, they lose their immigration from people like Stephen Miller, Jeff EQMI said if the commission grants the coalition’s request, heavily on Choi as well as thousands of status and their fate is unknown. Sessions, they are pretty heavily anti- it will be an important incremental step toward protecting other immigrants who face uncertainty Trump explained his decision to immigrant within the administration, LGBT Michiganders from discrimination. At the same time, about their future. rescind DACA – after making a campaign and they would like to see America shoot the organizations are agreed that the interpretation alone is “It’s been 20 years since I’ve last promise to cut back on one hand, but itself in its feet rather than letting us live not a substitute for legislative action to amend the ELCRA. set foot in Korea,” Choi said. “All my telling recipients they can “rest easy” with dignity.” extended family is here in America or on the other – by making the dubious Amid discontent with the decision elsewhere. I don’t know what I would claim the program is unlawful. In fact, to roll back DACA (75 percent of the Questions can be directed to Nathan Triplett, via email at do. My language skills aren’t really up immigration law grants the executive American public supports allowing [email protected]. to par and I would have to serve in the branch authority for “establishing recipients to stay, according to a Sept. 5 Korean military because of mandatory national immigration enforcement Morning Consult poll, Trump has said conscription. It’s something that I really, policies and priorities,” which includes Congress should pass a comprehensive really wish didn’t happen.” deferred action on removals. immigration bill that would fix Being gay in Korea would be no Negative consequences cited as a immigration law in favor of young, walk in the park for Choi. In addition to result of DACA by Trump were equally undocumented immigrants who obtained mandatory conscription, homosexual acts dubious. They included the humanitarian status under the program. are barred and subject to punishment in crisis under the Obama administration at Choi, whose work documentation the Korean military. the U.S.-Mexico border in which children expires in December 2018 is clinging Choi said the stress of potential from Central America were sent without to the hope of congressional action removal from his home in New York their parents to the United States. Trump within the six-month period before City, where he works as the social media also suggested DACA contributed to the manager for the American Asian and See LGBT Immigrants, page 11 www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 9 NEWS Survivor’s Safe Haven YWCA Project Provides SAFE Services in Genesee County BY EVE KUCHARSKI been fostering programs to aid victims of sexual assault and domestic violence through nce she made it to the hospital, advocacy, crisis counseling, support groups authorities immediately routed her to and referrals to community resources. The of lesbians and 35 percent of heterosexual Othe YWCA of Greater Flint’s SAFE services are not out of place, especially women. Bisexual men rank highest too, with Center. In less than an hour, she saw a patient because Genesee County has “three times the 37 percent, versus 26 percent of gay men and Kanisha Clemons, volunteer coordinator helping out at advocate, a Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner national average for reported sexual assault,” 29 percent of heterosexual men. the YWCA Project’s customer service desk. and got an exam done to assess the damage Johnson said. That’s why the YWCA does not help only from her assault. Authorities discovered that However, even with the organization- women. Anyone who walks through its doors Crime Act (VOCA) which the organization she had been a victim of human trafficking. wide rebranding and a switch to a new site, aged 14 has been receiving for more than 15 years to “We realized that she was actually held Johnson said that many people still confuse and older can seek services. Many of the help support its $1.4 million annual operational captive for a long period of time, so she the YWCA’s purpose. cases that the YWCA takes on are also linked budget. didn’t feel safe going to her family’s house. “We still get phone calls almost daily asking to domestic, spousal abuse. This is why the However, under President Donald Trump’s We delivered her to a safe house, our shelter about their health and fitness memberships Flint YWCA does not limit the amount of times new budget for Fiscal Year 2018, many in our building, so she didn’t have to leave,” and the customer service person has to a woman can come in to get help. millions of dollars will be cut both directly and said Rachel Johnson, the YWCA’s director of continuously tell them that we’re not the ‘YM,’ Counseling and Outreach Coordinator Ann indirectly to the services that YWCA’s rely on. development and sexual assault services. “That we’re the ‘YW,’ Johnson said. Kita said that her department sees over 2,000 Beyond this federal funding, Johnson said was huge for me. To see how the program was Historically however, the YWCA has always women annually. She said that because “every the Flint YWCA relies on private donations working, that she didn’t have to wait in a public had a hand in social justice; look at the more story is so different,” it’s vital that the center and other grants from local organizations such hospital waiting room feeling unsafe, and have than 100-year-old organization’s website, and provide that service. as the Michigan State Housing Development five, six, seven hospital personnel speaking you’ll find that their mission is “dedicated to “It’s not something for us to say, ‘You Authority (MSHDA), the Mott and Hagerman to her about her story – and then calling us to eliminating racism, empowering women and have only 12 sessions and we have to fix this Foundations, and the Community Foundation figure out how to get her to safety.” promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity problem within 12 weeks.’ They’re here for of Greater Flint. Since her arrival at the YWCA several for all.” the duration, period,” Kita said. “They say on While federal dollars give the Flint YWCA months ago, systems to relocate the client out One of the ways the organization is able average, it takes a woman seven to nine times the ability to give raises to staff members, of state have been put in motion – her name to complete its goals on a local level is by to leave her abusive partner and that’s not on implement new programming and fund new unreleased to maintain her safety. Johnson said providing a unique blend of services, which for her, it’s just that there are barriers to leaving, positions, fundraising efforts are required a story like that is just the tip of the iceberg. many, are unattainable elsewhere. Currently, and I think that when she’s ready to meet that throughout the year to help with operational “With domestic violence it’s so complex, the Flint YWCA is the only provider of SAFE next barrier, we’re here to support that.” and administrative costs that federal funding because you have months and years going services in Genesee County. These examiners In keeping with that, the YWCA tries to does not support. on, there’s so many ties that those individuals are specifically taught how to deal with cases ensure that women can stay for as long as they Johnson notes that all of the Flint YWCA’s have,” Johnson said. “That was just a glimpse of sexual assault. need; until they can feel safe again, or get back services are free of charge – meals, personal of what some of our sexual assault clients It is also fitting that the formerly all- on their feet. hygiene products and safe shelter amenities. experience. I say it was a success story only women’s organization provides these services, “Our average length of stay, because we This includes the needs of the women’s because the processes worked.” because women are also the most affected do have to report on that for our funders, is children such as diapers and formula. But those processes have been vital for group in cases of rape and sexual assault – right around 25 days. We really try not to put A recent statement by the YWCA’s Interim thousands of women annually. The YWCA has regardless of race or class. The 2016 Michigan a timeline on it. Generally, we say we’re a 30- CEO Cindy Hoffman said that “the full been helping victims of sexual violence since Incident Crime Reporting statistics show that day emergency shelter, but we’ve had plenty elimination” of the $3 Billion Community the ‘70s, but it wasn’t until nine years ago that of the more than 3,000 victims of Criminal of women who have needed well more than 30 Development Block Grant “will pull the rug the organization officially rebranded from its Sexual Conduct in the 1st Degree, 97 percent days,” Johnson said. “We have some women out” from “safety nets around the country” former image as a fitness center. were women. Due to local demographics, who just need a couple of days – maybe until and YWCA projects, like emergency and Then, the Flint location experienced a huge in Genesee County, black and white victims the warrant is out and he gets arrested and permanent housing for survivors of domestic shift in October of 2016, when it changed numbered significantly higher than any other they feel safe going home, or they end up violence. locations to the city’s recently renovated races. choosing to go back with them, or we get them But budget cuts or not, the YWCA is still Phoenix Building. There, the YWCA has to relocate.” providing valuable services for men and The LGBT Community And although the ideal is to maintain women alike. “I’m so fortunate that we’re INFO a system where every client can use the here, because it happens every day,” Kita said. The LGBT community doesn’t escape YWCA as a shelter for as long as they need, “We have walk-ins that come in every day and Call the 24-hour crisis line at 810-238-SAFE to sexual violence either. The Centers for Disease the YWCA’s resources are not unlimited. we have been their last resort and they just speak with trained staff who are able to answer Control and Prevention found that rates of Currently, the YWCA’s funding remains under don’t know what to do and it is about first and questions, provide information and referrals, rape, physical violence or stalking by an foremost the safety for them.” assist survivor in accessing other YWCA services former President Barack Obama’s Fiscal intimate partner are especially high among and begin the intake process for SafeHouse for Year 2017 budget, which allocated millions Connect with the YWCA Project at 801 S. Saginaw those in need of safe shelter. bisexual men and women. Bisexual women of dollars to YWCA’s under the Violence St. in Flint by calling 810-238-7621 or visit ywca. rank at 61 percent, compared with 44 percent Against Women Act (VAWA) and Victims of org/flint.

10 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com particularly in Aguirre, Mexico. That’s the site ® LGBT Immigrants of the murders of organizers and activists, the Continued from p. 9 Ayotzinapa 43, and so since then, the city has changed dramatically, and if I were ever to DACA is eliminated – which is unlikely in a be deported, I know it would not be safe for Republican-controlled Congress – to ensure me to live authentically in my place of birth.” he and other DREAMers can remain in the Aguirre, an activist with United We Dream, United States. said Trump’s decision to end DACA “is rooted “We’re really going to have to pivot to in white supremacy” and part and parcel of Congress to really find ways to find a solution the president’s actions against other minority for us,” Choi said. “It’s like living on a ticking groups, such as the travel ban on Muslim time bomb because the program is supposed majority countries. to end in six months. And six months, that’s “It’s really about making sure that brown not a long time, and to expect the Congress to and black young people are not able to be a come up with something when the House and free part of the country where we call home,” the Senate are being held by Republicans, it’s Aguirre said. “It’s about putting us in danger very difficult, but what else can we do? We of being incarcerated and being deported and came this far.” having our families targeted.” On the same day he announced he’d end LGBT groups across the board have DACA, Trump said he’d “revisit” the issue condemned Trump for eliminating DACA – if Congress doesn’t come forward with a calling it a betrayal of those who signed for up legislative solution. It remains to be seen if the program and are now at risk of deportation. Congress will produce a solution, and, if not, As Slate’s Mark Joseph Stern points out, the whether Trump will change his administrative reversal of the U.S. government’s position decision. on DACA eligibility is similar to Trump’s One action Choi said isn’t available to him elimination of transgender military service, under immigration law – despite his presence which imperiled transgender troops who came in the United States for 20 years and education out after the Obama administration lifted the at a U.S. college – is applying for U.S. ban on transgender service last year. citizenship to eliminate the risk of deportation. Among the LGBT groups taking action The lack of the option, Choi said, is what keeps is the National Queer Asian Pacific Islander undocumented immigrants in that status. Alliance. On Tuesday, NQAPIA delivered “There is no line that we can stand on,” to Trump 971 postcards from LGBT Asian Choi said. “Immigration law is very complex, Americans and Pacific Islanders and allies in and frankly, very broken in terms of people favor of preserving DACA. who want to become U.S. citizens. So there “DACA was never a perfect program, but is no line we can stand on. There is no it was a step in the right direction,” NQAPIA application that we can just magically go out Executive Director Glenn Magpantay said. and get rid of our undocumented-ness. We’re “President Trump’s mean-spirited cancellation not undocumented because it’s all fun and of DACA will force 800,000 people to live in games; we’re undocumented because our even greater fear. Talented and hard-working circumstances drove us here.” DACA young people are the ones who Among those participating in rallies are truly making America great. Again the throughout the country Tuesday as the Trump president cuts back on the American dream administration announced it would roll back and contributors to our economy.” DACA were LGBT immigrants covered under In the meantime, Aguirre said he’ll rely the program. on ties to his community and family to get Sheridan Aguirre, a 23-year-old queer him through an uncertain time and a new undocumented immigrant who’s covered immigration status. under DACA and resides in Austin, Texas, “I really try to draw back on the fact that took in the protest outside of the White House we’ve lived here for 20 years, and that’s not on the day Trump made the announcement. going to change,” Aguirre said. “I know that I “DACA means the world to me,” Aguirre have my community. I know that I have allies said. “It’s allowed me to graduate from the that are here with me to fight alongside me.” University of Texas, it’s allowed me to be Choi said he’ll try to keep pressure on able to provide an income for me and my Congress – and potentially encourage Trump partner and so if it were to be taken away, it to reverse course on DACA – as he remains would really disrupt my life and the life of with few options and the real risk of losing my family.” his home. Born in Iguala, Mexico, Aguirre came to the “We came this far,” Choi said. “A lot of United States with his mother in 1996 as an us we built our livelihoods over the past five undocumented immigrant at the age of 1. The years, and it’s not just us. There are people two joined his father who was already in the who depend on us. Some of us have children, country working as a migrant worker picking some of us have families that we support, so cotton. After Aguirre enrolled in school and this is not a fight that we need to simply give took part in advanced placement classes, his up and go away. We really need to rally around family decided to stay. and engage our members of Congress, really. “I have no memories of living in Mexico,” We have the power to do this.” Aguirre said. “There’s nothing left for me in the place where I was born and especially now, Michael K. Lavers contributed to this report. www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 11 GOP - Guardianship of Pornography Parting Glances

OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

’ve no firsthand knowledge of the profession, but I imagine being a porn star isn’t everything it’s cracked up to be. Not by a long shot. IBut! somebody’s got to do it. (I’ve got a bad back, a trick knee, carpal tunnel issues, and no gift for butch, stud talk. It’s not stage presence or acting talent I’m short on, it’s ability to project convincingly – and zipper modestly.) I fault no one for making an IRS-circumventing living. And I confess I’ve spent many catatonic hours watching the endless supply of showoffs eager to cavort naked in front of the camera – moon, moan, tastefully dilate – making what Shakespeare calls, with a touch of poetic lumbago, “the beast with two backs” Usually overly tattooed. Here are some current data to chew on: 4.2 million: Number of pornographic sites on the Internet, approximately 12 percent of all websites; 68 million: Daily Internet searches for pornographic terms; 72 million: Individual visitors to pornographic websites each month; $2.84 billion: Annual sale of online pornographic products and services in the United States. Estimated number of work hours lost to cyberporn in America each year is 5 billion; 70 percent of porn-site traffic occurs between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. If nothing else, it’s one way of getting a jump start on the day. Pornography, of course, is nothing new. The Ancient Greek and Romans decorated their temples, their public baths, sometimes even their homes Viewpoint with panoramas displaying their rapacious gods, swans, beauties, beasts openly displaying who was doing what with which to to whom back then. It was all part of what’s been historically called “bread and circuses.” One more means of keeping control of the masses. Subliminally, It’s also a tool that abets religious guilt. And, while most of American churchgoers Trump’s DOJ Tells SCOTUS don’t murder, steal, rob, philander too excessively, a sizable number do indulge in X-rated viewing. Got a favorite kink? Google Tumblr for available sights, er, sites. God There’s a Constitutional Right to only knows there are thousands. Among Fundamentalists, porn’s a problem. Big time. Possibly a communist plot. Discriminate Against LGBTQ People Indeed, the American Family Association recently issued a caveat: “The porn industry knows that it cannot survive, unless more users become addicted to their material. They also are specifically targeting more BY JAY KAPLAN Christian communities, which is part why the Bible Belt leads the nation in consumption of porn. “The porn movie “Fifty Shades of Grey” heavily targeted the Bible Belt with advertising and PR, which is why their highest concentration he Trump Administration’s Justice Department, Phillips has argued that he should be exempt from the of box office ticket sales came out of the south. Number 25 in the Current headed by Jeff Sessions keeps batting a thousand civil rights laws because of his religious beliefs that Communist Goals from the book, “The Naked Communist,” published Twhen it comes to LGBT rights. After rescinding marriage should be limited to same-sex couples. in 1958, is “Break down cultural standards of morality by promoting federal guidelines protecting transgender students from Not only does the Justice Department argue that pornography and obscenity in books, magazines, motion pictures, radio, discrimination regarding bathroom use at school, after baking a cake for a same-sex couple “violates (Phillips’) and TV.” recently submitting a brief in the federal court of appeals sincerely held religious beliefs,” but also that baking a WithTumblr invited porn, whatever your supposedly unique special for the Second Circuit arguing that sex discrimination cake is a “form of expression” that is protected under interest, you’re not alone. Just preface your specialty choice with “hot laws do not protect LGBT from discrimination, the the First Amendment. This prompted Louise Melling, male” (or, “hot female”, though I can’t vouch for these sites). Your kink Department filed a brief last week in the United States deputy legal director of the National ACLU (which is may be elbows, knees, ankles, eyebrows, chicks-with-dicks, flatulence. Supreme Court, arguing that businesses that are open representing David Mullins and Charlie Craig) to state: Just add “hot” as incentive. to the public have a constitutional right to discriminate “The Justice Department has already made its We gay men spend extraordinary amounts of time, energy, libido, against LGBT people. hostility to the rights of LGBT people and so many watching porn. Be warned. Gay porn is being given a new anti-LGBT This brief was filed in the Masterpiece Cakeshop others crystal clear. But the brief was shocking, even for kink. Many enticing Tumblr sites – with Alpha, Slave, Trade, Come case, the case in which a Colorado bakery refused this administration. What the Trump Administration is Worship, Nazi Feet headings are cleverly intended to convey messages of to serve a same-sex couple seeking a cake for their advocating for is nothing short of a constitutional right inferiority, willing acceptance of physical abuse of gays, total superiority wedding reception. Lower courts had previously found to discriminate.” of straight males. that Masterpiece Cakeshop violated Colorado’s non- A constitutional right to discriminate against LGBT Fact is, porn bread these days too often comes baked in poisoned GOP discrimination law when it refused service to David people….. Make no mistake, the biggest threat to LGBT wrappers. Mullins and Charlie Craig. Masterpiece’s owner, Jack See next page 12 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com The Masterpiece Cake Shop case is not a case about cakes. It’s about people being turned away from a business simply because of who they are. BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI Protecting people from discrimination is about Scott Lively treating others the way we want to be treated, You know those “pleasure- and it is part of our constitution’s promise of related brain chemicals” equal treatment under the law for everyone. that are released when a person meets someone they are are attracted to? When straight men and women feel rights today are arguments like those made offer custom products or creative services that it’s called love. When by the Justice Department, that certain to break the law and turn away customers individuals and businesses are exempt from would mean that hairdressers could refuse gays and lesbians feel it, civil rights laws based on their religious to style hair for a bat mitzvah, printers it’s called “addiction.” Same beliefs that to be LGBT is wrong. We’ve could refuse services to people of color y wife and I just celebrated our 20th already seen it here in Michigan. Aimee and more. It could mean a return to a time anniversary. And do you know who feeling, different bodies. Stephens is fired from her job at a funeral where commercial businesses engaged in Melse is celebrating 20 years? World home when she discloses to her employer blatant and rampant discrimination against Nut Daily, a website that hosts conservative chemicals that are released when they act out.” that she is transgender. people based on race, religion, gender, and voices that not only don’t consider my wife You know those “pleasure-related brain Federal District Judge Sean Cox agrees more. Our constitution does not protect this and I to be married, but don’t even think that chemicals” that are released when a person with the owner that his religious belief kind of discrimination. we should, or even do, exist. meets someone they are are attracted to? When about transgender people exempt him from Freedom of religion is one of our most One such marriage equality denier and man straight men and women feel that it’s called having to comply with federal civil rights fundamental rights as Americans. It is who has spent years authoring anti-LGBTQ love. When gays and lesbians feel it, it’s called laws and justifies the discriminatory firing. strongly protected by the First Amendment. hot takes is Scott Lively, president of Defend “addiction.” Same feeling, different bodies. (This case is now on appeal in the Sixth But that freedom does not give any of us the Family International. It’s interesting that Lively claims to “have Circuit). The Michigan legislature passes the right to harm other people, to impose Lively’s Sept. 8 column is basically a never experienced same-sex attraction,” yet and Governor Snyder signs a law that our beliefs on others, or to discriminate. love letter to Exodus International, a totally he’s so sure same-sex attraction is a vice and permits faith based foster care and adoption In the Masterpiece case, there was no discredited group that purported to turn gays addiction. He cites his own struggles with agencies that have paid contracts with the discussion at all about any message on a and lesbians straight with prayer. The founder addiction as proof that he’s an expert on state of Michigan (to act on behalf of the cake. Refusing to bake a cake where the of Exodus eventually left and was all, “Welp, addiction and recovery. State of Michigan), to refuse to work with customer seeks to include a homophobic I’m still gay. This group is bullshit. Sorry.” “I was miraculously healed of drug and certain families (including LGBT families) or racist message isn’t the same as refusing Lively, however, thinks it was great. alcohol addiction in 1986 - on my knees in based on those agencies’ religious beliefs. service because the customer is straight or “Though I have never experienced same-sex prayer at a treatment center - after 16 years This threat is already here in Michigan, as Christian or because of their race. attraction,” Lively begins making sure you of bondage that started at the age of 12,” he well as throughout our nation. Bakeries are free to refuse to sell know he ain’t no homo, former or current, writes. “I never had another desire to drink or As a nation, we decided a long time ago products with particular messages, as long “I attended several Exodus conferences and take drugs ever again.” that businesses that are open to the public as they don’t do so on the basis of who other functions.” Well, good for him if that’s the case. But should be open to everyone on the same is requesting the product. That’s why it So why did Lively hang out at Exodus that doesn’t make him an expert on how gay terms, and that includes customers that was legal for another Colorado bakery to gatherings if he’s a good heterosexual people feel or don’t feel. are LGBT. Nobody should be turned away refuse to decorate two cakes, one saying Christian? Because he loves gays, in a totally He can’t understand why LGBTQ people from a business, denied service, fired from “Homosexuality is a detestable sin” and the non-gay way, of course. and allies were so strongly against the ex-gay their job, or evicted from their home simply other showing two grooms holding hands “I have always had a special place in my “cure” lie that Exodus pushed (and Lively because of who they are. with a red X over them. heart for ‘gay’ strugglers and have ministered still pushes). The Masterpiece Cake Shop case is It’s both disturbing and distressing to many individuals over the years as an “Exodus International,” he writes, “suffered not a case about cakes. It’s about people that the Trump Administration does not aspect of my Bible-based Christian activism,” the wrath of the powerful LGBT political being turned away from a business simply understand this difference. In their brief Lively said. movement from Day 1 because every one of because of who they are. Protecting people to the highest court in our land, the final Translation: “I think gay people are its members was living proof that homosexual from discrimination is about treating others arbiter on constitutional issues, they have disgusting, incapable of God’s love, and self-indulgence is a choice.” the way we want to be treated, and it is articulated a position that upends what our unworthy of romantic partnership and I have No. Every one of its members was living part of our constitution’s promise of equal constitution is all about and threatens to spent my professional life spreading that proof that people who’ve been beaten down treatment under the law for everyone. A gut essential civil rights protections. We message because I am a creep.” by discrimination and hate will subject business that opens its doors to the public put our trust in the United States Supreme The place in his heart for gays is so special themselves to psychological torture in the to provide a commercial service like court to reject the Trump Administration’s that he claims they have a “compulsive hopes that the pain will stop. selling a cake isn’t endorsing any customer, dangerous and flawed legal arguments and behavioral disorder.” Hating LGBTQ people is a choice. including that customer’s marriage. We to rule on the side of equal rights, just as “As with any compulsive behavioral Being Christian is a choice. Believing that all have different beliefs and providing the lower courts have. disorder, homosexuality is tough to Christianity is incompatible with LGBTQ services to customers on equal terms just overcome,” Lively writes. “There’s an aspect Jay Kaplan is the staff attorney with the ACLU people is a choice. Lively is living proof that means that a business is following the law. of physiology involved in all addictions - of Michigan LGBT Project. He can be reached anti-LGBTQ indulgence is a choice. No doubt And businesses that sell products to drugs, alcohol, food, gambling, video games, Lively’s own pleasure-related brain chemicals at [email protected]. the general public aren’t above the law porn, whatever - that addicts the struggler are released when he acts these indulgences just because there is a creative element to his or her own pleasure-related brain out. No wonder he can’t stop. to their work. Allowing businesses that SEE STORY P. 16 www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 13 NEWS

® Block Trump Ban its version of the legislation, which contains no provision on transgender service. (The Continued from p. 4 House voted down an amendment proposed by Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.) to bar funding discrimination measure that would require the in the U.S. military for transition-related care, U.S. military to accept transgender troops, may including gender reassignment surgery). not obtain as much support among lawmakers If the amendment survives the entire process in a Republican-controlled Senate compared in Congress, Trump would then be in a position to an amendment that would more modestly of having to sign a defense bill into law that roll back Trump’s directive. includes a measure overriding his directive to The extent of the rollback would also be an ban transgender military service, which the issue. Overriding the portion of Trump’s policy president would likely not be keen to do. barring funding for gender reassignment One LGBT advocate said he wouldn’t sugar surgeries, for example, may not be palatable coat the difficulties in making an amendment to Ernst, who said she opposed U.S. military against Trump’s transgender military ban a funds for that treatment. success because there’s no strategy for “a “When you look at some of the statements guaranteed win.” of the conservative Republicans like Joni “I do think House Republicans are going Ernst, for example, she didn’t wholly endorse to be resistant to it,” the LGBT advocate trans service and I don’t think they are ready said. “We don’t know what the final NDAA to sort of say we’re going to tell the Pentagon process is going to be. There are a lot of issues to have trans service,” one LGBT advocate around the bill unrelated to any of our issues said. “Hopefully, we can get to a point where Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) is seen as key to an amendment against Trump’s transgender military ban. (Washington as far as what the DOD funding level is going the Pentagon is sort of given a free hand to Blade photo by Michael Key) to be. There are other issues around specific look at what is best from a military readiness weapons. It is very possible that the final bill is going to need Democratic votes in the House, standpoint.” to see what will be consistent with their and GLBTQ Advocates & Defenders, the legal which will give us tremendous leverage at One Capitol Hill source said as of the end statements when the ban was announced and team has sought a preliminary injunction, that point, but those are sort of unknowables of this week a determination on content of the be substantively helpful in keeping the ban which could come down at any time and at this point” amendment hasn’t been made final, although from being fully implemented,” one LGBT effectively lift Trump’s policy. One Capitol Hill source was nonetheless the more modest proposal to reverse the Trump advocate said. The impact of a preliminary injunction, one optimistic about the potential to override ban seems more likely as opposed to a military Although Senate Majority Leader Mitch LGBT advocate said, could go either way on Trump’s anti-trans directive through the civil rights bill. McConnell (R-Ky.) has authority on legislation, either taking “the wind of out of legislative process – at least in the House – Neither Gillibrand nor Collins’ office determining whether legislation will have the sails” for that course or giving more space based on rejection of the Hartzler amendment. responded to the Washington Blade’s request amendments, he’d give McCain significant to lawmakers to vote against the policy after “I think people recognize that this is a for comment on their plan for an amendment deference, the LGBT advocate said. the judiciary repudiated it. ridiculous overreach by the president that against Trump’s transgender military ban. “If we have his support on an amendment, “Generally, I think it might be less helpful, literally no one asked for,” the source said. Key to the success of the amendment I think there’s a high likelihood it gets a vote but it’s hard to say, and we could see a “Even Vicky Hartzler, her floor amendment and whether it will even be allowed for regardless of what Mitch McConnell wants,” preliminary injunction at any time, but there’s was on health care, and in committee she consideration is McCain, who as Senate one LGBT advocate said. no guarantee we see one at all,” the advocate pulled the amendment that would have been Armed Services Committee chair will McCain’s office didn’t respond to the said. an outright ban. Even Vicky Hartzler was not have considerable sway over whether an Washington Blade’s request for comment Even if the Senate approved an amendment asking for this in her amendment. I would amendment on transgender military service on whether he’d support – or at least favor against Trump’s transgender military ban as feel pretty good about how this would go if it will be permitted on the floor. Recently allowing to come up – an amendment against part of the defense authorization bill, many comes back over to the House, but obviously diagnosed with brain cancer, McCain may be Trump’s transgender military ban. obstacles could prevent it from becoming law. I can’t speak to what the count is like in the ending his time in the Senate and working on Concurrent with a legislative process For starters, the provision could be stripped Senate.” his final authorization bill. is litigation seeking to overturn Trump’s out in conference committee when House and “We’re going back and forth in discussions transgender military ban. In one of the lawsuits Senate lawmakers agree to a final version of This article originally appeared in the Washington with McCain staff and other Republicans filed by the National Center for Lesbian Rights the defense bill. The House already approved Blade and is made available in partnership with

14 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 15 NEWS Lawsuit Seeking Gay Protections Under Title VII Reaches Supreme Court DOJ Argues Before Supreme Court BY CHRIS JOHNSON, Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals in WASHINGTON BLADE favor of gay protections under Title for Baker who Refused to Serve Gays VII. The question of whether lesbian, The filing also cites dissonance BY CHRIS JOHNSON, “because the First Amendment The Justice Department brief was gay and bisexual people are covered among the federal agencies. The WASHINGTON BLADE protects the right of free expression filed Thursday before the Supreme under current federal civil rights U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity for all Americans.” Court on the same day many anti- law has reached the U.S. Supreme Commission, the U.S. agency charged The U.S. Justice Department has “Although public- LGBT filed similar briefs arguing Court – where a nationwide ruling with enforcing federal employment voluntarily weighed in on a case accommodations laws serve in favor of Masterpiece Cakeshop. would clarify anti-gay workplace non-discrimination law, determined pending before the U.S. Supreme important purposes, they – like It’s not the first voluntary discrimination is illegal under Title VII in 2015 sexual-orientation Court in favor of a Colorado bakery other laws – must yield to the anti-gay amicus brief the Justice of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. discrimination amounts to unlawful asserting a First Amendment right individual freedoms that the First Department filed under the Trump In a 30-page filing, the LGBT sex discrimination under Title VII. to deny wedding cakes to same-sex Amendment guarantees,” Ehrsam administration. The department also group Lambda Legal makes the The U.S. Justice Department under couples. said. “That includes the freedom not made a filing before the U.S. Second case the high court should take up U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions, The 41-page brief filed by the to create expression for ceremonies Circuit Court of Appeals arguing to clarify the clarify the nationwide however, recently argued against Justice Department under U.S. that violate one’s religious beliefs.” Title VII of the Civil Rights of prohibition on sex discrimination in gay protections under Title VII in a Attorney General Jeff Sessions Charlie Craig and David Mullins, 1964 affords no non-discrimination the workplace under Title VII applies separate case before the U.S. Second makes the case Jack Phillips, owner a same-sex couple, filed the lawsuit protections to lesbian, gay and to cases of lesbian, gay and bisexual Circuit Court of Appeals. of Masterpiece Cakeshop, has the against Masterpiece Cakeshop after bisexual people. people. “That the federal agencies charged freedom of expression right to they asked Phillips to design and Louise Melling, deputy legal “This Court should carry out that with enforcement of Title VII have refuse to make same-sex couples a produce a wedding cake in 2012 director of the American Civil task without delay,” the petition says. staked out wholly contradictory wedding cake. for their wedding in Massachusetts. Liberties Union, said the filing “Ours is a national economy, and positions regarding Phillips refused based on his was the latest in a series of anti- basic protections in the workforce the scope of Title religious beliefs, but said he LGBT moves from the Trump should not depend on geography. VII’s prohibition on would be happy to make and administration. More fundamentally, lesbian, gay, sex discrimination sell them other baked goods. “This Justice Department has and bisexual Americans will not enjoy further reinforces the In 2013, the American already made its hostility to the true legal equality until their sexual need for this Court’s Civil Liberties Union and rights of LGBT people and so orientation is irrelevant not only to guidance,” the brief the ACLU of Colorado many others crystal clear,” Melling their right to enter into consenting says. filed a lawsuit on behalf of said. “But this brief was shocking, relationships and to marry but also But the brief also Mullins and Craig, alleging even for this administration. What to their ability to maintain jobs and asserts the Supreme the bakery discriminated the Trump Administration is pursue their livelihoods.” Court should take up on the basis of sexual advocating for is nothing short of a The question presented before the case because the orientation. Representing constitutional right to discriminate. the court is “whether the prohibition 11th Circuit erred Masterpiece Cakeshop We are confident that the Supreme in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act in ruling against is Alliance Defending Court will rule on the side of equal of 1964 against employment Evans, arguing anti- Freedom, an anti-LGBT rights just as the lower courts have.” discrimination ‘because of . . . sex’ gay discrimination is “Forcing Phillips to create legal group designated by The brief is consistent with encompasses discrimination based favor of sex stereotyping the Supreme expression for and participate in a the Southern Poverty Law Center remarks Sessions gave in July on an individual’s sexual orientation.” Court rendered unlawful in earlier ceremony that violates his sincerely as a hate group. at an Orange County conference The petition seeks Supreme decisions. held religious beliefs invades Among the arguments in the for Alliance Defending Freedom Court review of the U.S. Eleventh “Petitioner’s claim rests on the his First Amendment rights in a brief asserting the supremacy of in which he pledged to make Circuit Court of Appeals decision in fact that if she were a man, or if manner akin to the governmental Masterpiece Cakeshop right to protecting religious freedom a case of Jameka Evans, a security she dressed and behaved in a more intrusion in Hurley,” the filing refuse service over Colorado’s non- priority. guard who claims she was targeted stereotypically feminine way, or if she says. “Colorado has not offered, discrimination is the state’s own “The federal government will for harassment and effectively were attracted to men rather than and could not reasonably offer, absence of marriage equality at the actively find ways to accommodate terminated from her job at Georgia to women, respondents would have a sufficient justification for that time the purchase was requested. people of all faiths,” Sessions Regional Hospital for being a lesbian. treated her differently,” the brief says. compulsion here.” “In other words, the State itself said at the time. “The protections Bucking a nationwide trend of “This is sex discrimination, pure and The Supreme Court agreed to did not acknowledge the validity enshrined in the Constitution and court rulings, a three-judge panel simple. Title VII nowhere carves out hear the case in June after an of the union it sought to compel our laws protect all Americans, on 11th Circuit determined Title VII, lesbian, gay, and bisexual people from administrative judge ruled petitioners to celebrate,” the brief including when we work together, which prohibits discrimination on the its categorical protection against sex Masterpiece Cakeshop illegally says. “It was not until October speak in the public square, and when basis of sex, afforded her no basis for discrimination.” discriminated against a same-sex 2014, after federal courts had ruled we interact with our government. relief because sexual-orientation was For the high court to agree to couple by refusing to sell them that Colorado’s same-sex marriage We don’t waive our constitutional a separate issue. Earlier this year, the grant a writ of certiorari, or decide a wedding cake – a decision the laws were invalid, that the State rights when we participate fully in full 11th Circuit refused to reconsider to take up the case, a vote of at Colorado Court of Appeals upheld began issuing marriage licenses to public life and civic society.” the decision “en banc,” or before the least four justices is necessary. The in 2015. The Colorado Supreme same-sex couples. Especially given full court. Supreme Court will likely schedule that background, the State has not Court has declined to review these This article originally appeared in The petition argues the Supreme the petition for review at a conference decisions and let them stand. advanced a sufficient state interest the Washington Blade and is made Court should take up the case based after justices return from break this Lauren Ehrsam, a Justice to override petitioners’ weighty First available in partnership with the on split rulings among federal circuit fall to determine whether to take up Department spokesperson, said the Amendment interest in declining to courts, citing a recent from the U.S. the case. Justice Department filed the brief create the expression at issue here.” National Gay Media Association.

16 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com Fauci: More Resources Needed to End Global HIV/AIDS Epidemic

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, speaks at the U.S. Conference on AIDS at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in D.C. on Sept. 9. Washington Blade photo: Michael K. Lavers BY MICHAEL K. LAVERS Fauci in his remarks did not specifically refer to the proposed cuts. He did say, however, The director of the National Institute of there is a need for an HIV vaccine “to achieve Allergy and Infections Diseases at the National what I call durable end of the HIV pandemic.” Institutes of Health on Saturday said more “We’re not talking about the individual resources need to be devoted to ending the person who’s living with HIV or what we global HIV/AIDS epidemic. can do for at the at-risk purpose, even in the Dr. Anthony Fauci in a presentation he gave absence of a vaccine,” he said. “But globally at the U.S. Conference on AIDS at the Marriott and epidemiology if we want to end the Marquis Hotel in D.C. noted “individual epidemic, if it’s durable we’re going to need countries” have met UNAIDS targets of having a vaccine.” 90 percent of people with HIV knowing their status, receiving antiretroviral therapy and having undetectable viral loads by 2020. He ‘We Are a Movement for Social pointed out “globally as a whole we are still Justice’ far from the mark at 44 percent.” “We need to do much better,” said Fauci. Roughly 3,000 people attended the “You do much better with resources.” conference that NMAC – formerly known Fauci said 19.5 million of the more than as the National Minority AIDS Council – 36 million people around the world who are organized. living with HIV are on antiretroviral drugs. NMAC Executive Director Paul Kawata on He noted there is a “treatment gap” of 17.2 Saturday discussed Trump’s proposed budget, million people. noting it “has been a very difficult time in “We are really far off the mark. so we need Washington.” to so something at a global epidemiological “We are a movement for social justice,” he level that involves not only people in this said. “We are a movement for social justice room, but governments, our own, international that is dependent upon government funding.” organizations that need to pull together for Members of the U = U campaign – which that,” said Fauci. describes itself as “a health equity initiative House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to end the dual epidemics of HIV and HIV- (D-Calif.) in her remarks at the conference’s related stigma by empowering people with opening plenary noted President Trump’s and vulnerable to HIV with accurate and proposed budget for the 2018 fiscal year meaningful information about their social, would cut $850 million from the President’s sexual, and reproductive health” – took to the Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) stage before Kawata spoke and protested. and $225 million from the Global Fund for “I’m so happy today as a gay black man to AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. She also be able to say that U = U,” said Roscoe Boyd criticized the White House for proposing of Detroit. “I’ve been taking my medication cuts to the Ryan White Comprehensive every day and because of that I cannot transmit AIDS Resource Emergency Act that provides the virus to my partner. That empowers me to assistance to low-income people with HIV live a life that’s full and free.” and their families, the Housing Opportunities AIDS Alabama CEO Kathie Hiers echoed for People with AIDS (HOPWA), the U.S. Boyd when she spoke. Department of Health and Human Services’ “If you are undetectable. you are not a Office of Minority Health and the National danger,” said Hiers. “You can have a healthy Institutes of Health itself. sex life. you can have babies. the sky is the limit.” www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 17 FREEDOM THROUGH FEMININITY

All-American Rejects Frontman Tyson Ritter on ‘Freeing’ Experience as a Crossdresser and Supporting His Lesbian Sister

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI man named Robert whose fantasy is playing that woman.” It broadened beyond that yson Ritter strips down to nothing for through our correspondence because, of the All-American Rejects’ new queer course, I had immediate questions for him project. T about the story of Robert and the purpose Fuzzy leopard-print top, blonde wig, fake of this film. Once we boiled it down, it was eyelashes, low-cut skirt, stilettos – the frontman just this concept of identity and how people de-drags as he transforms from a prostitute, in all walks of life are never the same person Betsy, to a seemingly married, suited-up man in any room they walk into. I think Robert’s and life of the party, Robert. struggle to find himself was something that The 11-minute short film conceptualizes bled into my correspondence with Jamie, identity and authenticity through the and we just started exploring all of our dark complicated and ultimately haunting duality secrets together. It was really this cathartic of a single person. “Sweat,” a swaggering thing to just talk about our lives and the glam-rocker, finds Betsy leaving her mark on regrets we’ve had and the compromising the streets – and in a bathroom stall when things things we’ve done to become the person we get hot and heavy with an androgynous hookup. were and are. But then, during the juxtaposing come-down “Close Your Eyes,” we discover, tragically, How have you had to come to term with your Robert’s “real” life comes at a price. own identity? Have you ever questioned your As the alt-rockers mount a musical comeback own sexuality? with the two-song EP and a forthcoming album – their first since 2012’s “Kids in the I absolutely have. I went through a really Street” – Ritter, 33, opened up about his own bad breakup when I was in my mid ’20s and femininity, being asexual for three years, his I was asexual for almost three years, just strong opinion on how “everybody’s selling living in New York by myself, totally stone celebrity” and being there for his lesbian sister sober and trying to find myself. I was raised when their family was not. by my mom and my grandma, and that femininity and that balance within myself Can you tell me about the concept of this of the masculine and feminine has always short film and how you ended up using a been a yin-yang. It’s pushing and pulling, always. And I embrace that energy because crossdresser as your subject? I think some of the strongest things about Jamie Thraves is a brilliant British film me are from what my mother and my Nannu director who we were lucky enough – he’s gave me. actually FaceTiming me right now. Hang on. (Laughs) We’ve become brothers over I feel like most alt-rockers are comfortable this, but he approached us with a simple exploring the gender spectrum. one-line concept that just said, “I see Tyson Iggy, man. I was covering my body in glitter playing a woman and I see him playing a in 2009 and everybody thought I was a

Photo: Interscope Records

18 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com lunatic. People forget about the spectacle of you now and so it’s really kind of – I might rock ’n’ roll being something that is fearless. be shooting myself in the foot because I’m To be a superhero in a band is something not being this, you know, social whore that that takes all powers. And when you’re on most people have to be to play in this crazy the stage and giving yourself to thousands rat race of the music business. of people, you have to be this cartoon; it’s beautiful to embrace that in your own life. As someone who’s been acting for several years now, you may be aware of opposition to These tea dates, where you meet with fans and cis, white men acting as LGBT or queer. There’s have tea, which I love, aren’t exactly the most been a lot of pushback regarding this. How masculine thing. Have you had any tea dates conscious were you of that sentiment while with anyone from the queer community? developing the storyline for this video? My tea dates have just started, so it’s been I always knew that (Betsy) was a fantasy of such a mixed bag of all walks of life. It’s Robert and it’s that suspension of disbelief incredible. People have been like, “Oh, you that kept me grounded in the character. My should journal about your tea time,” and wife helped me a lot. I just wanted to make I’m like, “No, this is precious to me and sure that I grabbed onto all the femininity private.” A lot of people sell their time to that I’m not afraid to show and put it into their fans. Everybody is selling access now Betsy. I didn’t wanna approach the character and I think that’s the fucking complete half-assed at all, and as far as it being a risk corruption of what’s going on with the to play that role, to me it was an escape music business. Everybody’s for sale in a and a surreal journey through a fantasy completely different, fucked up way. of Robert’s. At the heart of this story is a Are you referring to certain mega pop stars man named Robert who has a life and has a purpose, and I was serving him. So, I guess who give themselves to their fans in charitable I didn’t feel like there was a compromise ways for the purpose of advertising their given that the character I was playing was brand? the true heart of this journey. I mean, I can’t even touch that, man. Everybody’s selling celebrity. And we’re In what ways do you identify with Betsy when it a band that only sells music, and that was comes to any overlapping femininity? the most important part about this visual I think that’s precious to me. I think if journey for this band. I grew up in front there is overlap, just top to bottom, it was of the record button since I was 16 – how the curation of getting her walk down. I much have you fucking changed since would wake up almost every day and put you were 16? It’s funny, people put these on my heels and walk around my house expectations on bands to sound the same, for hours on end to find my gesticulations to stay in that little time capsule with their and where Betsy carries herself. I think it friends from high school and their dreams in was some of (my) stage persona. There’s their twin-size bed and it’s like, no, art has a crazy confidence to Betsy that I loved to grow up; the artist can grow up with you, being able to embrace and Robert didn’t man. And so that’s where we came at with have that. Robert’s this guy who hides from this new offering of “Sweat”/“Close Your himself, and I think being able to embrace Eyes.” We’re coming back with purpose that was really a freeing thing. Honestly, it and I’m proud of that because, ultimately, put me back in my own skin in a completely I’m not trying to sell ad time on my Insta different way where even now on stage account. Everybody has to have access to Continued on page 21

www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 19 Prove How Jacked You Are (Even If You Don’t Look Like It) at These 7 Fitness Challenges BY MIKEY ROX

Summer bod will be hard to maintain as the sun sets on these final few dog days and the brisk breeze of autumn ushers in a serious craving for carbs. But you can keep the extra pounds at bay outside of beach season by participating in fitness and adventure events galore. From breaking a sweat in bouncy houses to pushing your limits through treacherous terrain, here are seven events widely available across the country to keep you in top shape – or at least at a steady weight so you can stuff your face all fall and winter long. 1. Vacation Races Breathtaking views and the pursuit of healthy living converge in Vacation Races, which hosts 5Ks, half-marathons, The Frivolist Trailfests (multi-day, 50-plus-mile adventures) and Ultras (featuring 100K, marathon and half-marathon options), four-story waterslide. Locations for ROC warrior bucket list, graduating to the set in the most majestic places in the are limited to northern and southern Tough Mudder is the next logical United States, like Yellowstone and California, New England and D.C.; this progression in your total fitness-event Yosemite national parks, the Shenandoah year’s last hurrah pops off in NYC on domination. Here, you’ll work your Mountains, Mount Rushmore and Sept. 10. way through 10 miles of mud (tie those Joshua Tree, among a dozen-plus other shoes tight!), completing challenges spectacular, getaway-worthy landmarks that include scaling a 15-foot wall, and historical locations. 4. Warrior Dash scrambling up a slippery slope, and – Elite athletes and first-timers alike nipple alert! – plunging into a dumpster will find the strength to conquer Warrior packed with 10 tons of ice. 2. The Color Run Dash’s 12 world-class obstacles, Billed as the “Happiest Event on the including scaling walls, crawling Planet” – and arguably the one with the through muddy trenches and jumping 7. Rugged Maniac gayest sensibility – The Color Run 5K over fire, in this test of endurance that Consider wearing disposable clothing douses white-clad participants head to rewards finishers with medals and a to the covered-in-sludge Rugged Maniac toe in a rainbow of colors (in the form post-race party with beer, music and a 5K and Obstacle Course, which boasts of edible, nontoxic powders; they’re not few thousand other crusty Dashers to more than 25 physical challenges like trying to poison you) as you run 3.1 miles mingle with. gymnastic rings above a muddy moat, through a course that this year includes a army crawls beneath barbed wire and Dream Wall that allows runners to paint underground tunnels over a three-mile their aspirations, photo ops with giant 5. Cotopaxi Questival course. When you’ve passed the finish unicorns, a colored Foam Zone and a Adventure Race line, clean up at available showers and join Finish Festival with music and post-race the party featuring food and bevs, a live sustenance. Runs are held from February Grab a group of two to six of your DJ, mechanical bulls, and pie-eating and to November, setting up shop in 31 states closest friends and set off on a journey of stein-holding contests. Host cities include from coast to coast. adventure, exploration and a lifetime of Denver, Atlanta, Chicago, New York City memories during this 24-hour scavenger and Los Angeles, among 20-plus other hunt-meets-outdoor discovery excursion areas in the United States and Canada. 3. ROC Race that sets you on a beat-the-clock list of challenges that traverse the terrain, from Ridiculous Obstacle Challenge (ROC Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist Race for short) grew to more than urban jungle to mysterious forests to the and LGBT lifestyle expert whose work has 100,000 participants last year, all of splashy shores of our expansive coast whom were gunning to get wet, wild lines. The best part is, you don’t know been published in more than 100 outlets and a little banged up through a course what you’re in for until you get there. across the world. He splits his time between of about a dozen obstacles – inspired by homes in New York City and the Jersey Shore the ABC game show “Wipeout” – like the 6. Tough Mudder with his dog Jaxon. Connect with Mikey on infamous Wrecking Balls, the menacing Twitter @mikeyrox. Sweeper and a finish-line glide down a If you’ve checked the popular 5K races and courses off your weekend-

20 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com ® Tyson Ritter There’s an album in the works. What can the gay community look forward to? Continued from p. 19 This music is gonna be out, man. This isn’t I’m finally feeling comfortable to embrace gonna be an All-American Rejects record. everything that I am. This is a record that is gonna feature a lot of evolution. People are either gonna be Growing up in Stillwater, Oklahoma, what was grabbing onto it or they’re gonna be letting your introduction to the LGBT community? go, and I welcome both. My sister. I was 10 years old when my You’ve given the LGBT community many baby sister was born and my parents had a encouraging songs over the years, including complex, tumultuous Oklahoma divorce, and “Move Along.” Can we expect more along those I was there to sort of raise her in a lot of ways. lines? When I had to get on the road when I was 16, leaving her was… even talking about it, it I realize that, in these divisive times, there kind of echoes a heartbreak for me. We kept is so much hate and division. The thing that our correspondence, and as she grew, I was breaks my heart right now in the world is just on the road. When she was 15, she came out. how divided we are. Even my parents didn’t Getting the family’s acceptance in go through this shit. I think it’s pouring out of Oklahoma at 15 – I mean, probably one of me right now, so the things that I see and feel the most difficult things I’ve had to help in the world are the things that I’m gonna be her survive. She helped me survive getting writing about. There are gonna be songs for through just being an artist, too, because my people who just want to sing out as an escape, parents haven’t always supported me. So we but this isn’t gonna be empathetic pandering were holding each other’s hand as she got to – rock ’n’ roll is the escape, man, and I feel 18, and now she’s engaged to be married. But like we’ve lost that sentiment with celebrity. I kind of saw a lot of (the LGBT community) People are forgetting about the music. through her eyes. When you come to a Rejects show, it’s non-denominational; it’s a congregation of There are few things harder than not being people who are there to let go of the outside accepted for who you are, but it sounds like you world. The greatest thing that we can do as a had each other to lean on. people is gather without any sort of ill-will, We did. At Christmases we were holding especially nowadays. So, the beautiful thing each other in the corner. We were the two about this next Rejects record? It’s gonna be weirdos, but at least we had each other. something that sets people free. That’s what it’s doing for me, man. What does she think of “Sweat”/“Close Your Eyes”? As editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT She loves it. She was so proud of me. I was wire service, Chris Azzopardi has interviewed a really nervous. I was like, “I hope you love multitude of superstars, including Meryl Streep, it and I hope you think I did good.” And she Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Reach him via his called me and she still has that Southern website at www.chris-azzopardi.com and on voice: “Aw, man, ‘Sweat’ is so good. You did Twitter (@chrisazzopardi). so good, bubba.” www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 21 13

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22 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com Hillary Clinton Talks ‘What Happened’ in Ann Arbor on Book Tour

BY BTL STAFF Oct. 24 are now on sale via Ticketmaster, with front-row seats going for nearly $600. The pre- ANN ARBOR - Ready for a behind-the- sale is happening now, with the public sale set scenes look at Hillary Clinton’s campaign to begin at 10 a.m. Sept. 18. and the November 2016 loss to Republican VIP ticket packages are being offered for Donald Trump for the presidency? The former anywhere from $372 to $597, with the most first lady, U.S. senator, secretary of state and expensive ticket including a front-row seat Democratic presidential candidate is stopping with a souvenir laminate, a signed first-edition through Ann Arbor as part of a nationwide tour copy of Clinton’s new book and a pre-event to promote her new book, “What Happened.” photo op and formal meet and greet. Those “In the past, for reasons I try to explain, I who opt for the VIP experience must be at felt I had to be careful in public, like I was the venue by 6:45 p.m., with the photo and up on a wire without a net,” Clinton wrote in receiving line starting at 7 p.m. sharp. the book’s introduction. “Now I’m letting my MLive.com reports that Clinton didn’t make guard down.” any appearances in Ann Arbor during her 2016 Simon & Schuster, publisher of Clinton’s presidential campaign, but she has visited book, says it is an intense look at her multiple times in the past, including as first campaign as the first woman to be a major lady in the 1990s when she was greeted by party presidential nominee and a campaign loyal members of her fan club in Ann Arbor, at featuring “rage, sexism, exhilarating highs one point said to be the biggest chapter of the and infuriating lows.” Hillary Clinton fan club in the world. The book, published Sept. 12, is available for pre-order on the website hilliaryclintonmemoir. For more information on how to register to com. Tickets to see Hillary Clinton speak at the attend, visit https://hrclive.formstack.com/forms/ University of Michigan’s Hill Auditorium on annarborsignup. www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 23 AIDS Walk Detroit 2017 Since its inception in 1991, AIDS Walk Detroit has become the largest grass roots HIV/AIDS fundraising entity in Michigan. This year’s event ,presented by Delta Air Lines, happens Sept. 17 at the Royal Oak Farmers Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Road. The goal is to raise $200,000 and mobilize over 2,500 participants to walk. For more information, to register or join a team, call 248-399-9255, email info@ aidswalkdetroit.org or visit aidswalkdetroit.org.

a.m. Call for more information. Detroit third Sunday. PFLAG Ann Arbor, 306 N. OUTINGS Block Works, 18908 Trinity St., Detroit. Divison at Catherine Street, Ann Arbor. 313-451-3424 . detroitblockworks.org/ 734-741-0659. [email protected] www. pflagaa.org Trinity/Clarita Park Beautification Thursday, Sep. 14 Transgender Health Fair 1 p.m. Justice for Our Neighbors 1 p.m. Free Exhibits, vendors, speakers and One block at a time, Detroit Block Works - a legal consultations for LGBTQ immigrants panels dedicated to the health of the Monday, Sep. 18 Grand Rapids Pride Center, 343 Atlas Ave. transgender community. Event is free. Brotherhood of Support 6 p.m. For collaboration between Jason Lugo and Doug Russell SE, Grand Rapids. www.grpride.org Transgender Michigan, 290 W. Nine Mile transmasculine identified people ages - has motivated communities to help rebuild their Gender Non-Conformists 7 p.m. A Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. 16 and older. Group is affiliated with neighborhoods through community involvement and social and support group for genderqueer, transgendermichigan.org/events/health. FtM Detroit. FtM A2 Ypsi, 319 Braun genderfabulous, transgender, gender- html Court, Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. www. good old fashioned sweat. On Sept. 16, go out anytime jimtoycenter.org/ exploring folks and all those who Bisexual Peer Group 5 p.m. Meetings between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and help put the finishing transgress gender binaries. Affirmations, are a freeform discussion of current bi/ touches on the Trinity/Clarita Park space at 18908 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. pan/omni news, events, and other LGBT Tuesday, Sep. 19 248-398-7105. www.goaffirmations.org/ topics. Jim Toy Community Center, 319 Fostser Care and Adoption Orientation Trinity St. in Detroit. Call 313-451-3424 or visit detroitblockworks.org/ for details. programs-services/support-discussion- Braun Court, Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. 6 p.m. Orchards Children’s Services groups [email protected] www.jimtoycenter.org/ is seeking adults from all counties to provide temporary care in their home Red Umbrella Support Group 7:30 p.m. LGBTQ with HPV 6 p.m. Support, For individuals involved in the erotic for children ages 0 to 17 for foster discussion and activity group for anyone care or independent living. Financial 995-9867. www.jimtoycenter.org/ gender identity. Polyamory Network, 319 goaffirmations.org labor industry. Sex Workers Outreach with HSV1/2 and HPV. Affirmations, 290 Project Michigan, 290 W. Nine Mile reimbursement, training and support Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- system provided. Orchards Children’s jimtoycenter.org MCC Detroit 45th Anniversary Event Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. 7105. [email protected] www. Wednesday, Sep. 20 6:30 p.m. Featuring the Dynamic Duo goaffirmations.org Services, 24901 Northwestern Hwy., goaffirmations.org Suite 601, Southfield. 248-530-5370. The Pastor is In 3:30 p.m. Pastor Dani Saturday, Sep. 23 Dueling Pianos Singalong and music [email protected] www.orchards.org Veenstra, local United Church of Christ provided by DJ Quinnetta Burke. Tickets: Men’s Discussion Group 6 p.m. Topic: faith leader and ally to the LGBTQ Smeared Lipstick 3 p.m. A discussion $60, which must be purchased by Labor Friday, Sep. 15 What makes someone attractive to you? Woman 2 Woman 5:30 p.m. For Young Adult Group 7 p.m. For young community hosts this free service every group for self identified feminine lesbian Day. MCC Detroit, 17100 Laurel Park Drive Do you have a type? Affirmations, 290 W. people ages 18-24 Grand Rapids Pride Wednesday. OutCenter, 132 Water women to identify issues specific to them. North, Livonia. www.mccdetroit.org/ lesbian, transgender and bi-attractional Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. individuals. RSVP to Sharron Fincher via Center, 343 Atlas Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. St., Benton Harbor. 269-925-8330. The group also does a monthly community www.goaffirmations.org www.grpride.org [email protected] www. service project to increase their visibility Own Your Gender 7 p.m. For transgender, email. Woman 2 Woman, 20025 Greenfield non-binary and gender and gender Road, Detroit. sharronfincher@lgbtdetroit. outcenter.org in every community. Affirmations, 290 W. Sunday, Sep. 17 Addiction and Families 7:30 p.m. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. questioning people Grand Rapids Pride org www.lgbtdetroit.org Dr. Lynn Kleiman Malinoff, Ed.D. will Out Loud Chorus Board Meeting 7 p.m. Center, 343 Atlas Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. 28th Ohio Lesbian Festival Check the www.goaffirmations.org/programs- facilitate. 1.5 hours of free C.E. approved Out Loud Chorus, 319 Braun Court, Ann services/support-discussion-groups www.grpride.org website for performance lineup. OhioLBA , by MCBAP (Michigan Certification Board Arbor. 734-995-9867. www.jimtoycenter. Saturday, Sep. 16 Thornville. www.ohiolba.org Women Build: Exploring Careers for Addiction Professionals) is provided. org/ LezRead 4 p.m. Email Kerene Moore to Sunday, Sep. 24 A certificate to document attendance is join Ann Arbor’s premier book club for in Construction 8 a.m. Call for more PFLAG Meeting 2 p.m. Info and Support Gay Subtext Book Club 2 p.m. Email information. Women’s Center of Greater Meeting PFLAG Tri-Cities, 2525 Hemmeter provided on request. Dawn Farm, 5305 Thursday, Sep. 21 lesbians. Jim Toy Community Center, Elliott Drive, Ypsilanti. 734-485-8725. 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. kerenem@ for more information. Gay Subtext Book Lansing, 5708 Cornerstone Dr. , Lansing. Road, Saginaw Township. 989-971- Polyamory Network 7 p.m. Open and Club, 610 Woodmere Ave. , Traverse City. 517-372-9163. womenscentergl@gmail. 7085. [email protected] www. [email protected] www.dawnfarm.org/ jimtoycenter.org www.jimtoycenter.org/ programs/education-series inclusive community of people living [email protected] www.tcpolestar. com www.womenscenterofgreaterlansing. pflag.org polyamorously, people interested in Men’s Discussion Group 6 p.m. Movie org/ org/events/ Ann Arbor TNG 8 p.m. For the kink and polyamory and people of, friendly to and night Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile PFLAG Monthly Meeting 2 p.m. Entry Transcend 4 p.m. For transgender and Trinity/Clarita Park Beautification 10 from parking lot behind church. Every fetish community Jim Toy Community curious about polyamory. Welcomes Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. Center, 319 Braun Court, Ann Arbor. 734- diversity of sexual orientation and gender non-conforming individuals

24 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com A Benefit for Freedom House Detroit Come together at 2 p.m. on Oct. 7 as three of Michigan’s moped groups come together for “Open Ports, Open Arms,” a ride, party and raffle to benefit Freedom House Detroit, a temporary home for survivors of persecution from around the world who are seeking asylum in the United States and Canada. Detroit’s MCR, Ypsi’s NoNo’s, and Southeast Michigan’s Femme Pedals are showing support to their neighbors and fighting hate together with this event which begins at West Cross Station, 517 W. Cross St. in Ypsilanti. For more information, visit http://gaybe.am/hV.

OutFront Kalamazoo, 340 S. Rose Concerts Sister Act Tickets $23-26.50. St., Kalamazoo. 2693494234. www. Stagecrafters, Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. outfrontkzoo.org Detroit Symphony Orchestra Lafayette, Royal Oak. Through Oct. 1. 248- “Strange Beautiful Music 10 Feat. New 541-6430. www.stagecrafters.org LGBTQ Support Group 5 p.m. Unitarian Music Detroit” Tickets start at $15. Universalist Congregation, 6726 Center Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Music The Revolutionists Michigan premiere Road, Traverse City. www.tcpolestar.org/ Center, 3711 Woodward Avenue, by Lauren Gunderson. Four beautiful, Detroit. 2 a.m. Sep. 24. 3135765111. bad-ass women lose their heads in this Pride AA Weekly Meeting 6 p.m. www.dso.org/ShowEventsView. irreverent, girl-powered comedy set OutFront Kalamazoo, 340 S. Rose aspx?id=4561&prod=4556 during the French Revolution. Theatre St., Kalamazoo. 2693494234. www. Nova, 410 W. Huron St., Ann Arbor. outfrontkzoo.org Detroit Symphony Orchestra Through Sep. 17. 734-635-8450. www. “Strange Beautiful Music 10 Feat. New theatrenova.org Pride NA Weekly Meeting 7 p.m. Music Detroit” Tickets start at $15. OutFront Kalamazoo, 340 S. Rose Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Music St., Kalamazoo. 2693494234. www. Center, 3711 Woodward Avenue, Professional outfrontkzoo.org Detroit. 5 p.m. Sep. 22. 3135765111. Death by...Whatever! A ‘90s murder www.dso.org/ShowEventsView. mystery dinner. Tickets: $30 includes Monday, Sep. 25 aspx?id=4518&prod=4517 buffet dinner and show. Costume contest and prizes. The Detroit Actor’s Theatre Department of Victim Services Detroit Symphony Orchestra Open Office Hours 11 a.m. Contact Company, Boo’s Music Lounge, 215 “Strange Beautiful Music 10 Feat. New S. Main St., Royal Oak. 7 p.m. Sep. Genny Maze, lead advocate, or Jeynce Music Detroit” Tickets start at $15. Poindexter, transgender advocate at 15. 248-632-9589. www.thedatc.org/ Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Music second-stage [email protected], to schedule Center, 3711 Woodward Avenue, an appointment. Walk-ins welcome. Detroit. 2 p.m. Sep. 23. 3135765111. Evil Dead: The Musical Tickets: Equality Michigan, 121 S. Garfield Ave. www.dso.org/ShowEventsView. $30. Sweat Equity Studio and Suite A, Traverse City. 866-962-1147. aspx?id=4555&prod=4553 Olympia Entertainment, City Theatre, [email protected] www.tcpolestar. 2301 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Sep. org/ Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Cube 28 - Oct. 28. 313-471-6611. www. “Strange Beautiful Music 10 Feat. New olympiaentertainment.com Lambda Group Open LGBT AA Meeting Music Detroit” Tickets: $15. Max M. Fisher 5:30 p.m. Lambda Group, 341 Washington Music Center, Music Box, 3711 Woodward God of Carnage by Yasmina Reza . St. , Traverse City. www.tcpolestar.org/ Ave, Detroit. 2 p.m. Sep. 23. 3135765111. Purple Rose Theatre Company, Purple T-Time 6 p.m. Social gathering every www.cubedetroit.org Rose Theatre, 137 Park St., Chelsea. fourth Monday of the month where trans Through Oct. 29. 734-433-7673. www. folks can meet in a safe space. FtM A2 Film & Video purplerosetheatre.org Ypsi, 307 N. River St. , Ypsilanti. www. Museum of Contemporary Art facebook.com/ftma2ypsi/ Detroit “Never Stop: A Music That FtM Detroit Support Group 7 p.m. Resists” Suggested donation: $5 for an ART ‘N’ AROUND Support is limited to transmasculine, AFAB introspective look at four pioneers of Affirmations “Remix Reframe: the Work people who no longer identify as female, Detroit Techno - Juan Atkins, Derrick May, of Aimee Michele Coldren” Opening or are questioning, and their guests. FtM Carl Craig and Jeff Mills. MOCAD, 4454 reception Aug. 3 at 7 p.m. Pittman-Puckett Detroit, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Woodward Ave., Detroit. 7 p.m. Sep. 14. Gallery, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. [email protected] 313-832-6622. http://gaybe.am/7A Aug. 3 - Sep. 30. www.goaffirmations.org New Member Night 7 p.m. Washtenaw DIA “Art of Rebellion: Black Art of the County’s original mixed LGBT chorus. Other Civil Rights Movement” Explore powerful Opportunity to join LGBT chorus group. No Metro Detroit Chevy Dealers “DIY Street artworks by African American artists who commitments, just see if we’re the right Fair” . Downtown Ferndale, Woodward formed collectives during the Civil Rights group for you. All are welcome--LGBT & between E. Nine Mile Road and Troy Movement of the ‘60s and ‘70s. Detroit allies. No sight reading skills or audition Street, Ferndale. Sep. 22 - Sep. 24. www. Institute of Arts, 2100 Woodward Ave., are required. Out Loud Chorus, 1400 W. ferndalediy.com/ Detroit. July 23 - Oct. 22. 313-833-7900. Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor. 734-265- www.dia.org 0740. [email protected] www. Shows Flint Institute of Arts “Art on Tap “ Olconline.org Fancy Pants Arts & Entertainment Tickets: $35-50. Enjoy more than 100 Transition 2.0 7 p.m. Facilitated by “5th Annual Michigan Burlesque Festival” craft beers, delicious cuisine from The Hannah Hartley, this group is focused Tickets: $25-30. 18+. Hasting Street Palette Cafe, live music by the Genesee on the art of transition. Integrate safely Ballroom, 715 E Milwaukee, Detroit. Ramblers, a silent auction and incredible and positively into society. Open to all. 7 p.m. Sep. 16. 7349269629. https// glassblowing demonstrations. Flint Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, michiganburlesquefestival.com/ Institute of Arts, 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint. 6 p.m. Sep. 23. 810-234-1695. Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. Fancy Pants Arts & Entertainment goaffirmations.org https://flintarts.org/events/special-events/ “5th Annual Michigan Burlesque Festival” beer-tasting Tickets: $25-30. 18+ . Hasting Street Ballroom, 715 E Milwaukee, Detroit. Lawrence Street Gallery “Sherry Adams MUSIC & MORE 7 p.m. Sep. 15. 7349269629. https// Foster - Play of Light” Opening Reception michiganburlesquefestival.com/ is Sept. 8 from 6-9 p.m. Lawrence Benefits/Social Events Street Gallery, 22620 Woodward Avenue, Ozone House “An Evening with Ozone Ferndale. Aug. 30 - Sep. 29. 248-544- House” Event will feature youth speakers, THEATER 0394. www.lawrencestreetgallery.com silent auction, and family-style dinner A Night of Stars with Tennessee catered by Moveable Feast. Domino’s Williams Tickets: $12. Slipstream World Resource Center, 30 Frank Lloyd Theatre Initiative, 460 Hilton Rd., Ferndale. Wright Drive, Ann Arbor. 6:30 p.m. Sep. Through Sep. 17. 313-986-9156. www. 23. 734-662-2265. http://ozonehouse.org/ slipstreamti.com calendar-old/evening-with-ozonehouse/ www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 25 Classifieds Call 734-293-7200 ext.22 309 EMPLOYMENT - 320 EMPLOYMENT – 1102 EROTICA - PROFESSIONAL WANTED MASSAGE

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26 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com Q Puzzle 42 Comportment of hairy gay 29 Alec of this puzzle’s theme guys? 30 Theodore Cleaver, to Wally 43 With 49-Across, movie with 31 Michelangelo’s painting and Leslie Jordan and Alec sculpture 44 Sleep (with), to Shakespeare 33 Direction from Stephen Pyles 46 Alec’s character 34 Diggs play about leased digs 47 Beloved princess 35 Blowout 49 See 43-Across 37 Bruin Bobby 57 “___ to Watch Over Me” 39 Parseghian of Notre Dame 58 Tinkerbell and others fame 60 Lou Grant on MTM’s show 41 Some pitches, in Billy Bean’s 61 Gets fired up like lesbians sport 62 Just Plains folks 42 Work perk 63 Prick stimulators 45 Swerve, at sea 47 Kevin Bacon movie of the ‘80s Down 48 “Lesbians ignite!” e.g. 1 Hurt, like a Broadway Auntie? 49 Ingredient in highballs 2 Caligula’s year 50 Sharif “Funny Girl” 3 Social group 51 Silence for Bernstein 4 All shook up 52 “She ___ Him Wrong” (Mae 5 Stage name for Leslie’s West film) character 53 Emily in “Butterfield 8” Alec and Leslie 6 Way to have one’s meat 54 “The Bell” author Murdoch 7 Mouth-to-mouth pro 55 “Nick at ___ “ 8 Lander at JFK, once queen 56 Will of _The Waltons_ 9 “ ___ Afraid of Virginia Woolf” Across 22 Popular vote winner, initially 57 Debussy’s dry 10 Leslie’s character 1 Like “The Rocky Horror 25 Put out 59 ‘60s draft org. Picture Show” 11 Gore Vidal novel 26 Ani DiFranco’s “Letting the 8 Sondheim’s Todd ___ Ring” 12 Dorothy, to Em 15 “Lisa Ben” to “lesbian” 29 CEO’s degree 13 Pulled the plug on 16 S&M activity 32 Anal stimulation 14 Role for Bela 17 “To sum up ...” 33 Sign of a Broadway hit 22 Bottom line 18 Send to the bottom 36 It needs oxygen 23 Letters on an LP 19 Change in form 38 Hole revealed when you 24 Bears’ home, briefly 20 Clumsy circumciser? moon someone? 27 Property claim Find solution to this puzzle at 21 Sheer material for a drag 40 Regulars at a gay bar 28 Fairy tale start www.pridesource.com

www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 27 COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

MDARD Announces Grant Opportunity for Food Processing, Food Hub Development ‘One-Stop Shop’ for Trans Healthcare BY BTL STAFF Offered This Weekend LANSING - The Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development is now accepting proposals for a competitive grant program aimed at helping promote and enhance Michigan’s $101.2 billion food and agriculture industry. The Value-Added Grant Program is intended to help expand value-added agricultural processing and food hub development in the state, as well as improve access to fresh nutritional Michigan grown foods. Those interested in applying should visit www.michigan.gov/mdardgrants to view the application and program overview. The grant will award a maximum amount of $125,000 per proposal. Each project will require a minimum 30-percent match. The value-added proposals will be SAVE THE DATE Offering up a unique alternative to traditional evaluated through a competitive process. Applicants for BY KATE OPALEWSKI healing methods will be art therapist Theresa grant funds will be asked to describe how the project will In an effort to raise awareness and connect Quinn, ATR, LMFT - the owner of Quinn Art Therapy impact and produce measurable outcomes for the state’s Transgender members of the transgender community in Southfield. food and agriculture industry. with affirming healthcare service providers, “Art therapy is beneficial to anyone who is open Health Fair Proposals must be received via email at mda-grants@ Affirmations in Ferndale will host Transgender to trying it. It uses art to explore issues of concern, Sept. 16 from 1 - 4 p.m. michigan.gov no later than 3 p.m. (EST) on Nov. 7. Michigan’s sixth annual transgender health fair and to identify solutions if need be. For some Affirmations Community Cetner Proposals received after 3 p.m. will not be considered. from 1-4 p.m. on Sept. 16. people, expressive language can be a barrier to Any additional communications concerning this 290 W. Nine Mile, Ferndale “Trans people need affirming holistic healthcare exploration, so art making can be helpful in the Request for Proposal should be sent to mda-grants@ because we matter. Often providers error ont he process,” said Quinn, who will attend the fair as michigan.gov. >> For more information visit Transgender side of being sensitive and not really know what a member of the LGBTQ community that wants Michigan on Facebook that means. It’s essential that every staff member to provide a supportive presence. http://gaybe.am/sK or on the organization’s For more information on MDARD’s grant programs, visit www. in a medical system from the front line to medical “I want to share what I have to offer to website www.transgendermichigan.org michigan.gov/mdardgrants. providers, understand the diverse trans needs. interested individuals. Access to affirming care Trans people are so different, and our transition of any kind is critical to the trans community, as differs. We need providers who are willing to see there are so many barriers to such care out there. that, according to Misiolek. Those services range that difference and offer us true respectable, Everyone deserves to have their authentic self from consultations to hormone education, to a Affirmations LEAD Institute Accepting preventative healthcare. Specifically for trans honored and cared for,” said Quinn. gym buddy program and community groups - all women of color, who often get insulted at their Patrick Yankee, development officer and so people constantly feel surrounded by support. Applications through Sept. 22 doctors or have no access to go to trained medical spokesperson for Corktown Health Center “Our services are free, too, because there are specialists,” said Lilianna Angel Reyes, program in Detroit said, “We are looking forward to enough barriers facing trans* folks in terms of BY BTL STAFF services director at the LGBTQ community center. introducing ourselves as we are ready to open culturally and medically competent physicians “Come just to make friends with others like our new medical home for the LGBTQ community FERNDALE – Affirmations LEAD Institute is now and insurance coverage, as well as income yourself,” said Rachel Crandall Crocker, executive of southeastern Michigan. Our health center will accepting applications for its fall cohort.The LEAD restrictions,” said Misiolek. “That’s another reason director and co-founder of TGMI. provide comprehensive care in an affirming Institute is a transformational leadership program the fair is so incredible - in a time like we live Last year, the transgender health fair attracted environment to all persons in the transgender designed specifically for LGBTQ+ professionals. Self- in, it’s good to know you have a friend in your attendees from Ohio and Indiana. “Reaching community. This effort has been in the making for knowledge and reflection form a foundation upon which journey, and events like this one show you who people from out of state is something we hope to a long time, but it is one hope will begin a new era Fellows build skills and plan for their futures. This is those folks are.” do again,” she said, adding that TGMI is bringing of queer focused health services for the region.” a wonderful opportunity to learn about yourself, build The full list of this year’s exhibitors include the together a variety of exhibitors for a “one-stop Brayden A. Misiolek, co-founder and executive/ skills for your career, and connect with peers. Read the University of Michigan Medical School; Transcend shopping experience for trans healthcare.” operations officer with Transcend the Binary in full brochure online at www.pridesource.com/btl-db/ the Binary; Massage Therapy by Allen Fender; She is excited to celebrate the organization’s Ferndale said, “It’s an honor to once again be a images/2537/LeadBrochure.pdf. Quinn Art Therapy, PLLC; Breast and Cervical 20-year anniversary with local businesses and part of such a unique and critical health fair for LEAD Institute Fellows will meet as a cohort for Cancer Control Navigation Program; Area Agency sponsors that will hand out free giveaways and the trans* community. Events like the transgender four full-day sessions in October and November at on Aging 1-B; Detroit HealthLink (Karmanos offer up critical information through conversation, health fair are so incredibly important because it Affirmations’ Community Room, 290 W. Nine Mile Cancer Institute, Wayne State University); Health the distribution of literature and workshops titled takes a collective impact of resources and support Road in Ferndale. Emergency Lifeline Programs; Excel Employment “Voice for the Transgender Individual,” “Explaining so everyone in our community has the equality Apply online at www.goaffirmations.org/lead. Options; Lisa Rowinski, Senior Counseling the Process from the Provider Perspective and and peace of mind they deserve.” Applications are due Sept. 22. Services, LLC; Safe Space Therapeutic Services; Preventative Health,” and “How to Choose a Transcend the Binary is one of many Detroit Health Department; Support the T; FairSky Therapist.” components in that collective. It’s a trans*-led Foundation; Two Paths Integrative Wellness; and Contact Becca Budde at 248-677-7226 or bbudde@ Crandall Crocker said services provided this organization that believes the term ‘healthcare’ Transformative Solutions Counseling Service. goaffirmations.org with questions. year differ from previous years with a more hands- is too often over-simplified. To this organization, on approach including free mini-massages and healthcare is physical, mental and social well- blood pressure screenings. being, and they have built their services to reflect David Ryals contributed to this report.

28 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com Birmingham Street Art Fair Benefits Common Ground Stand With Trans Seeks BY BTL STAFF of art mediums, including ceramics, Support Group Facilitators painting, photography, glass, jewelry, BIRMINGHAM - Common Ground sculpture, drawing, printmaking Stand With Trans has recently developed a Support is a non-profit organization dedicated to and more. There will also be free Group Training Program for those interested in becoming helping teens, young adults and families hands-on children’s art activities at facilitators. The move from crisis to hope, but help from this year’s event. Kids will have the organization is the community is needed to bolster the chance to create their own art and looking for parents organization’s underfunded programs. take it home. of trans kids that The community will have an More than 80,000 people are would be interested opportunity to help during this year’s expected to attend the weekend event in running a group Birmingham Street Art Fair. A silent art from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Sept. 16 and in the following auction will be held to benefit Common from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Sept. 17. areas: Adrian, Ground, which features artwork donated Common Ground offers several Livonia/Westland, by the artists participating in the event. crisis management options such as Flint and Lansing. “The artwork donated by the Guild mental health and anxiety services, A few things to Artists and Artisans truly makes this substance abuse disorder programs, mention – Stand auction so special,” said Heather Rae, a 24/7 resource and crisis hotline, With Trans would president and CEO of Common Ground. a text and chat crisis hotline and like those interested in training to attend a currently “We value their support and encourage programs for runaway homeless running support group at least two times to get a feel everyone to come out to see what they director of the Guild of Artists and youth. The center served more than for how they operate. The training will take about 2.5 contribute this year.” Artisans and the event organizer. “The art 82,000 people through all of its services hrs and will be scheduled once a list of those interested Common Ground continues to work is always changing and always evolving. last year. are identified and the visits to the other groups have in collaboration with the Guild of Artists In addition to the new artists this year, Admission is free for the Birmingham been completed. Support groups for kids will be run by and Artisans a non-profit, membership we are seeing many of the crowd’s old Street Art Fair located on South Old therapists along with a helper. Both the Parent Group and association of independent artists, best favorites with lots of new work, with the Woodward between Maple Road and the Kids Group are not therapy, but purely “supportive” known for its award-winning Ann Arbor added benefit of supporting an important Frank Street in downtown Birmingham. in nature. Summer Art Fair. organization such as Common Ground.” For more information, visit www.facebook. “Each year I look forward to this More than 150 juried artists will be Those who are interested in becoming a facilitator are welcome event,” said Karen Delhey, executive featured, representing a diverse array com/BirminghamStreetArtFair. to contact Lisa Goyette via email at [email protected].

www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 29 COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Find over 300 Non-Profit Listings Serving Michigan’s LGBTQ Online @ www.pridesource.com Editor’s Note: This is a sampling Campus Detroit Detroit Regional LGBT Chamber of the hundreds of Michigan www.lgbtdetroit.org. non-profits working with the Currently there are 19 organizations listed www.facebook.com/lgbtdetroit of Commerce LGBTQ community across the as active online at www.pridesource.com/ or follow them on Twitter @ P.O. Box 32446 state. From time to time this print yellow pages. The following are some in LGBTDetroit. Detroit, MI 48232 the southeast Michigan area: resource will emphasize different 20025 Greenfield Road detroitlgbtchamber.com Detroit, MI 1-800-DET-LGBT sectors as space permits. U-M Ann Arbor Phone: 313-397-2127 Spectrum Center Ties Like Me AIDS/HIV [email protected] Affirmations Professional networking events http://spectrumcenter.umich.edu There are dozens of AIDS/HIV organizations Ferndale third Weds. 5:30 - 8 p.m. 734-763-4186 and resources listed at www.PrideSource. http://goaffirmations.org TiesLikeMe.org com. Here are just three of them: www.facebook.com/Affirmations/ AIDS Walk Detroit Oakland University Gender or follow them on Twitter @ Suits And The City & Sexuality Center GoAffirmations. Contact [email protected] or 290 W. Nine Mile Road Lansing, MI 248-399-9255 for more information. [email protected] Ferndale, MI [email protected] The walk takes place this year on www.oakland.edu/gsc 248-398-7105 www.suitsandthecity.org Sunday, Sept. 15, 8:30 a.m. at the 248-370-4336 Royal Oak Farmers Market Legal Transgender Find a digital version of PrideSource Eastern Michigan University Macomb County STD Clinic American Civil Liberties Union FtM Detroit Magazine online under Our LGBT LGBT Resource Center Yellow Pages 27690 Van Dyke emich.edu/lgbtrc of Michigan https://www.facebook.com/ FtMDetroit/ Warren, MI 48093 734-487-4149 Jay Kaplan, Staff Attorney, LGBT Project [email protected]. 586-465-9217 2966 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI Find these resources online http://health.macombgov. The Lawrence Tech LGBT www.aclumich.org org/Health-Programs-HPDC- 313-578-6800 FtM A2 Ypsi Adoption Services Resource Center AIDS/HIV Hotlines HIVAIDSCounselingTesting [email protected] ltu.edu/student_affairs/lgbt.asp Fair Michigan https://www.facebook.com/ AIDS/HIV Organizations Matrix Ryan White ftma2ypsi/ Alzheimer’s Association Wayne State JIGSAW PO Box 6136 Animal Shelter HIV/AIDS Program Plymouth, MI 48170 Anti-Violence 120 Parsons Street Facebook.com/groups/WayneStateJIGSAW 877-432-4764, 313-556-2300 Transgender Michigan Archives/Collections Detroit, MI 48201 [email protected] fairmichigan.org 23211 Woodward Ave. Campus; Student and Alumni Groups 888-226-6366 Facebook.com/fairmichigan2016 Ferndale, MI Cancer Support Groups 248-545-1435 Community Centers [email protected] Choruses www.matrixhumanservices.org/ Michigan has nine active LGBTQ Know Your RIghts Project www.transgendermichigan.org Community Centers programs/ryanwhite/ 800-842-2954 community centers, with a tenth planned Outlaws U-M student group Employee Resource Groups in Lansing. Here are three of them. [email protected] Families and Parents UNIFIED - HIV Health and Beyond 734-995-9867 Trans Sistas of Color Project Foster Care 3011 W. Grand Blvd. Suite 230 Jim Toy Community Center 19641 W. 7 Mile Rd. in Detroit Foundations and Funders Detroit, MI 48202 313-537-7000 Ext 107 Hotlines & Switchboards Ann Arbor Older Adults Labor Union 313-446-9800 www.jimtoycenter.org. [email protected] www.miunified.org SAGE Metro Detroit www.facebook.com/TSCOPD/ Legal Organizations www.facebook.com/jimtoycenter Museums Michigan HIV/STD Hotline or follow them on Twitter @ 290 W. Nine Mile Rd. Ferndale, MI Music Groups 800-872-2437 JimToyCenter. 313-578-6812 Youth National Organizations 319 Braun Court sagemetrodetroit.org Political Organizations Advocacy Ann Arbor, MI Facebook: SAGE Metro Detroit Ruth Ellis Center Professional Organizations 734-995-9867 77 Victor Street, Highland Park, MI Equality Michigan Religious & Spiritual LGBT Detroit Political 48203 19641 W. 7 Mile, Detroit, MI [email protected] Senior Living 313-537-7000 The LGBT and Allies Caucus of the Facebook: Ruth Ellis Center Seniors equalitymi.org Michigan Democratic Party 313-252-1950 Social/Community Organizations Facebook.com/equalitymichigan Sports Facebook.com/TheLGBTA- Substance Abuse CaucusoftheMDP Ozone House Transgender Groups/Services 102 N. Hamilton Street Women’s Health Stonewall for Revolution Ypsilanti, MI Youth Services Get Listed, Promote Your Events 734-662-2265 You can add or update any listing by going to www.PrideSource.com and www.facebook.com/ 734-662-2222 stonewall4reolution clicking on Yellow Pages. Once you submit your listing, our staff will contact you to confirm your information. Professional Groups Stand With Trans You can add your event to the Pride Source Calendar online and in print by Farmington, MI going to www.PrideSource.com and clicking on Calendar, then “Add Event.” www.standwithtrans.org Send any press releases and announcements to [email protected] 248-739-9254

30 BTL | September 14, 2017 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com September 14, 2017 | BTL 31