Reflections on the Trump Administration’s Attitude Toward Transgender People and Anti-Semitism

Brennan Villines ‘Make(s) It Work’ with Brand-New EP The Bearded Lady Within Detroit Barbershop Says Express Yourself

PRIDESOURCE.COM NOVEMBER 8, 2018 | VOL. 2645 | FREE 2 BTL | November 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Join The Conversation @ Pridesource.com

ELECTION 2018 ANALYSIS ONLINE THE INTERVIEW

COVER Follow BTL’s election coverage throughout 10 Detroit Barbershop Helps Patrons Express The the week to see how the election’s Bearded Lady Within results will play out for Michigan’s LGBTQ Photo: Andrew Potter community. Go online to pridesource. Brennan Villines NEWS com to get timely updates throughout the 4 History Wheel week, and for further analysis catch our See Page 14 5 Q&A: Meet Creating Change Co-Chair Bridie Nov. 15 issue. Johnson 8 WSU: ‘You Can’t Erase Permanent’ Transgender Support Rally Draws Dozens COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS HAPPENINGS MICHIGAN NEWS 8 Reflections on the Trump Administration’s Attitude Toward Transgender People and Anti- Semitism 9 Michigan Outscores National Average in HRC Municipal Equality Index 11 Affirmations Hosts ‘Transgender and Thriving’ Workshop via MCC-D OPINION 6 Parting Glances 6 The Morning After: No Pill, Just Hard Work 7 Creep of the Week 2 21 Years Advocating and Out LIFE WSU: ‘YOU CAN’T ERASE 12 ‘Evidence of Things Unseen’ Midwest Premiere 22 HRC Sends FOIA to HHS for Records Opened Detroit Rep’s 62nd Season of Trump Administration’s Attempt to PERMANENT’ TRANSGENDER 12 No Tiptoeing with ‘Well-Intentioned White Redefine ‘Gender’ People’ SUPPORT RALLY DRAWS DOZENS 14 Brennan Villines ‘Make(s) It Work’ with Brand- 22 Measuring Outcomes for Boys and Men New EP of Color See Page 18 See Page 8 18 Happenings 21 Puzzle & Crossword

VOL. 2645 • NOVEMBER 8, 2018 EDITORIAL News & Feature Writers ADVERTISING & SALES ONLINE AT ISSUE 1085 Editor in Chief Emell Derra Adolphus, Michelle Brown, Todd A. Director of Sales Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 102 Heywood, Ellen Knoppow, Jason Michael, Drew Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 101 “Between The Lines Newspaper” PRIDE SOURCE MEDIA GROUP [email protected] Howard, Jonathan Thurston [email protected] 20222 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48152 CREATIVE Phone 734.293.7200 Entertainment Editor Sales Representatives Follow us @YourBTL Webmaster & MIS Director Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 106 Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 103 Kevin Bryant, [email protected] PUBLISHERS [email protected] [email protected] Email your op–eds to Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson [email protected] Columnists Feature News Editor Donelle Kremke, 734.293.7200 x 104 MEMBER OF Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Kate Opalewski, 734.293.7200 x 108 [email protected] Michigan Press Assoication Mikey Rox, D’Anne Witkowski, Sign up online to receive our E–Digest [email protected] National LGBT Media Association Gwendolyn Ann Smith National Advertising Representative National Gay & Lesbian Chamber Editorial Assistant Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Q Syndicate Cartoonists Eve Kucharski, 734.293.7200 x 105 Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau [email protected] Our rate cards are available online. All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many Contributing Photographers fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. Andrew Potter, Alexander Godin, Andrew Cohen Copyright 2018 Pride Source Media Group www.PrideSource.com November 8, 2018 | BTL 3 April - Royal Oak Ban on Serving February - Pink Panthers Organize in Detroit 0 0 S – Gays Repealed It was time for a new anti-racist, anti- ‘ 2 0 The city commissioners in Royal Oak homophobic, pro-trans presence in the city E 0 unanimously repealed a 41-year-old and the Pink Panthers were created. The H 0 ordinance that banned the serving to radical, queer group used a series of flyers T “homosexuals, prostitutes and drug and posters around Detroit to get their name users” at liquor establishments on out. Their mission was to educate people on April 6. The long-forgotten ordinance issues and find ways to take care of their had reportedly not been enforced in community outside of government. years, if at all. The original language of This was part of a growing number the ordinance had been lifted directly of young, LGBT activists who from a state statute that was revised. were no longer willing to wait on The antiquated ordinance came to adult authorities for protection. light in a meeting with management of the Royal Oak Music Theater.

June - Benefits for Gays FLASHING Kalamazoo became the second city in the state of Michigan (Ann Arbor was the first) to allow same-sex partners of BACK TO city employees to participate in all benefits extended to their married heterosexual peers. Kalamazoo City Manager Pat THE PAST: DiGiovanni said at the time the new policy makes “good sense from the point of attracting and retaining good employees.”

October - Matriarch to LGBT Community Dies Ruth Ellis was 101 when she died on Oct. 5. Born July 23, 1899, in Springfield,Illinois, Ellis was respected and loved for her longevity and endurance as one of Detroit’s oldest and proudest African-American lesbians, the first woman in the City of August - Car Show Offers Gay Camaraderie Detroit to own her own printing company, Gay car enthusiasts came together for and for her many years of service to all the four-day Lambda Car Club Grand people in need. Beginning in the 1930s, International, which attracted more than 350 Ellis provided shelter, physical support and people from across the nation and Europe to spiritual affirmation to those whose race, the Troy Holiday Inn. Close to 160 cars filled sexual orientation or both set them apart the parking lot during the event sponsored by from the dominant culture. Ruth Ellis Center LGBT employee resource groups from Ford is named in honor of her life and work. (GLOBE), General Motors (GM PLUS) and DaimlerChrysler (POD).

DR. LAURA’S “not the expert” on sexual orientation, while on Fox the TV show comes off the air and Paramount drops News she stands by her infamous “biological error” its double standard on prejudice,” said John Aravosis, ROCKY YEAR quote claiming her Ph.D. in biology backs it up. By the co-founder of StopDrLaura.com. end of the month Dr. Laura had reduced her interview schedule and allegedly devised a method of ending October - Two Canadian TV stations became the first them early if necessary. to dump Dr. Laura. In a letter that was to run on the Dr. Laura Schlessinger, a conservative radio and back cover of today’s edition of Variety, the Hollywood television talk show host, had provoked the ire of June- Paramount withdrew Dr. Laura and her trade paper, Dr. Laura said, “In talking about gays and gay groups for calling homosexuality “deviant” and upcoming TV show from a scheduled panel with TV lesbians, some of my words were poorly chosen. I derivative of “biological error.” critics at the annual press tour scheduled for July in deeply regret the hurt this situation has caused the Pasadena, Calif. gay and lesbian community.” Dr. Laura, who is an January - As the protests and demonstrations against Orthodox Jew, said in the letter that she was seeking Paramount continued, and meetings between the July - Dr. Laura posted a “Call to Action” on her forgiveness in keeping with the tradition of Yom studio and the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Fransisco Examiner and the Los Angeles Times. website, urging fans to help save her advertisers. Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement. Defamation yielded no results, the stage is set for a massive revolt against Dr. Laura Schlessinger. April - Dr. Laura canceled appearances and book August - Tapings for the first Dr. Laura show begins November - Across the country, Dr. Laura found her TV signings across the country in the wake of massive and, according to sources, Dr. Laura continues her show dropped to late-night time slots from 2-6 a.m. in March - Designed to build “a coalition against hate,” protests, claiming she didn’t want to “compromise crusade against gays and lesbians reiterating her seven of the country’s top 10 TV markets. StopDrLaura.com was launched, attracting 373,345 anyone’s physical safety.” belief that they are a “biological error.” hits in its first 24 hours. The Horizons Foundation in December - With stations across the country San Fransisco ran full-page ads against the radio May - Dr. Laura strikes back, going on Larry King September - As Dr. Laura debuted on TV, continuing to downgrade and drop the show, a Variety talk show host, calling her message “harmful to our Live and Fox News Sunday to defend her beliefs and demonstrations took place in over 30 cities airing the article estimated that Paramount had lost $1 million children.” The ads ran in the national editions of statements. Contradicting herself, she tells King she’s weekday program. “The protests are going to last until on Dr. Laura. the New York Times, San Fransisco Chronicle, San 4 BTL | November 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Q&A: Meet Creating Change Co-Chair Bridie Johnson

BY JASON A. MICHAEL

reating Change is an annual LGBTQ conference put on by the National LGBTQ Task Force. Hosting hundreds Cof workshops, caucus sessions, keynote speakers and more, the more than 30-year-old event tours across the U.S., every year choosing a city in which to showcase the LGBTQ community’s local and national community. This year, Creating Change 2019 is coming to Detroit in January. In advance of the event, BTL has reached out to interview four local co-chairs who are involved in putting on this Detroit-specific event. This interview is part of that series. Bridie Johnson is a state-licensed social worker and is currently employed as the clinical supervisor of the Behavioral Health Department of American Indian Health and Family Services. Prior to that, Johnson was the director of programs for the Ruth Ellis Center. Johnson has also conducted national trainings on transgender inclusion in the Domestic I live by Creating Change’s Violence Sexual Assault Shelter safe space " philosophy. I model movement in Michigan. In addition, Johnson conducted research for the I Am for Survivors appropriate inclusive Project, an initiative focused on increasing accessibility in Michigan for LGBT survivors behavior and am an ally to of domestic and sexual violence needing safe many in the LBGT community shelter spaces. and my personal networks What does Creating Change mean to you? represent those I support Creating Change is a national change agent that assures those of the majority are always awakened and opened up to learn and grow with people in desperate need for acceptance " and inclusion. For some, Creating Change is a place to mingle, network and relax; for others, Presenting an educational workshop for the Creating Change is a life-saving mechanism community at large. Along with seeing and that holds the individual together due to lack networking with 4,000-plus individuals and of community support in their lives. spending a week here in the heart of the city of Detroit together with over 350 breakout What are you doing to create change in your sessions to learn from making it the largest own life? LBGT training in the nation. I live by Creating Change’s philosophy. I What is your take on Gay Rights in the Era of model appropriate inclusive behavior and No. 45? Where are we as a community and am an ally to many in the LBGT community where do we need to be? and my personal networks represent those I support always. My take on No. 45 is better left unspoken, and as a community we all as allies need to be What made you feel you had to be a co-chair? in Detroit, in January, for Creating Change The fact that I was nominated by friends 2019. In Detroit our community should and colleagues in the Metro Detroit area remember that we are here to resist, relearn immediately created a sense of honor and and then return to our community stronger devotion to assure the event goes smoothly than we were before. for its 31st year here in Detroit. This along with my internal desire to consistently creating change in my life and in Detroit are More information about the conference and its offerings can be found online at creatingchange. both extremely important to me. org. Watch for our interviews with all the What are you most looking forward to about Creating Change 2019 co-chairs in upcoming Creating Change 2019? issues of BTL. www.PrideSource.com November 8, 2018 | BTL 5 Parting Glances

BY CHARLES ALEXANDER ‘Ys’ Beyond my Years!

ong, long before The Village People made “YMCA” — the song that would become the unofficial, persistent national anthem of Winter Olympian Brian Boitano – “Ys” played Lan important role. They were second only to gay bars, as places to meet available others of like-minded, body-mind-and-spirit, triune — me, you and the shower — persuasions. In the ‘60s and ‘70s there were four YMCAs in the Metro Detroit area. (The long-gone Grand Circus Park YMCA dating to 1904.) There’s only one YMCA now, located on Broadway, in a totally revitalized, energetic, amazingly-changed, thriving new Downtown area. It was understood in the late ‘50s that the “C” in YMCA also stood for contact (among other gerunds of neo-pagan opportunity). And in the course of my wanderlust years, I’ve spent many pleasant (and, I’ll add, radiantly scrubbed) weekends at “Ys” in Cleveland, Chicago, Toronto, Montreal and, the subject of this reminiscence, New York City. I recall only two mishaps. At Chicago’s exuberant Lawton “Y” in the 1970s, I decided to take a nap after a gin martini brunch at the nearby, crazy patchwork Haig Bar (leaving my door ajar with every good intention of do-unto-others, seventh-floor hospitality). When I awoke, I was chagrined to find that someone, in an act of non-Christian self-serving, had taken my new shoes and Viewpoint left me with their floppy, five-sizes too small clogs. (I have no recollection of what I bartered for the exchange. If anything equally small or virginal.) In the Detroit YMCA, when I was a young “looker” (and by that I mean I was always looking), I happened to be on the The Morning After: No Pill, Just Hard Work wrong floor at the wrong time. A passkey check was demanded. “This is for two floors below,” said the burly security guy. “Why are you here?” “It’s Sunday,” said I with a reasonably straight face. “I’m just BY MICHELLE E.BROWN checking to see if my friends are planning to go to church.” As I couldn’t remember their room number, their names or, ne of the lasting lessons I learned from Detroit’s Racism, homophobia and transphobia have only been what’s worse, their religious convictions (and I was wearing legendary activist Jeff Montgomery was no matter emboldened under 45 but were nothing new for communities nothing but a baptismal tea towel), I was told to leave the “Y” what the outcome was of an election, we must prepare of color or members of the LGBTQIA community. We knew immediately!) Ofor the morning after. As I write this before knowing the we weren’t entering a post-racial period in America with the My name was placed on a list (rather sizable I learned from results, I know that things could go either for or against election of Barack Obama. There was still Trayvon Martin, an attendant friend) of “transient undesirables.” But I remember us, but we have to be prepared. When he said this advice, Tamir Rice, Tanisha Anderson, Walter Scott, Sandra Bland, New York City’s Sloan House YMCA, on West 34th Street, with Montgomery was talking about the 2004 Michigan vote that Mike Brown, Eric Garner and others. much nostalgic, albeit transient fondness. made it unconstitutional for the state to recognize or perform Black Lives Matter but everyday reports of shootings (Thanks “Jerry” — whatever nursing home you’re now same-sex marriages or civil unions. So much was at stake. and social and economic disparities said they didn’t. At the in — for three memorable, if non-air-conditioned, 80-degree, The 2018 midterm elections are much the same. So much same time, rhetoric against other communities of color and romantic summer days.) is at stake, not just for the LGBTQIA community, but for immigrants was ratcheted up in daily tweets Arriving by train — 13 hours, 15 minutes, 35 seconds is immigrants, education, fair wages, survivors of sexual assault, And even with the end of “don’t ask, don’t tell,” marriage a long time to spend on a confining, tepidly ventilated train reproductive rights, voting rights and so much more. equality and markedly increased support for LGBTQIA rights playing gin rummy — and when friend Gary and I arrived And, no matter what the outcome of the midterm election, across the country and in the White House, the gay community at Grand Central Station we were both in need of a soothing we still have a lot of work to do. There are no quick fixes. There’s knew there would still be haters. shower (but not together). no morning-after pill to fix all that’s wrong in our communities, Despite Trump’s promise to defend LGBTQ rights, his We took a hectic cab ride to the Sloan House, where gorgeously our state, our country and in our world. health agency has blocked efforts to combat discrimination. blond friend Richard, who flew in the day before, had made And as much as I want to believe that rainbow and blue Political appointees have halted or rolled back regulations our reservations. waves can turn the tide on the bright orange tsunami that’s hell- intended to protect LGBTQ workers and patients, removed bent on destroying all we hold dear, the reality is things didn’t LGBTQ-friendly language from documents and reassigned the just get bad since 45 took office; they just got real. Really real. See Parting Glances, continued on next page See Viewpoint, continued on next page 6 BTL | November 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com ® Viewpoint Continued from p. 7 Creep Of The Week senior adviser dedicated to LGBTQ health. Democracy is a living, participative work Keep MA Safe BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI In 2017, at least 29 deaths of transgender in progress that takes all of our effort not only at the polls but every day. people in the U.S. due to fatal violence were y the time you read this the 2018 There will be wounds to heal and fences reported. Right now, 2018 is on track to Midterm Election will be over. We’ll to mend, but let’s commit to do the work. Now, I don’t need to tell you that minority be even worse for deadly assaults against find out whether we’re surfing the “blue Let’s get beyond partisan politics and rights should never be on the ballot. It transgender Americans. Bwave” or if we’ve been slammed against the fight for a system that puts people first. Let’s We’ve endured the travel bans, revelations “red wall.” was wrong to let the majority vote on re-commit to the promise of America that of sexual misconduct and assault that gave life There is a lot on the ballot across the marriage rights for same-sex couples, for has historically brought immigrants to this to the #MeToo movement and were reminded country, not least of which is democracy example. It is incredibly damaging to have country, celebrate their contributions and again during the Kavanaugh confirmations. itself. Will Americans elect people who will the voting majority debating whether or not let our borders be ruled by fear and hate- We were appalled by the shootings at the hold Donald Trump accountable? Or are mongering. not your family is legitimate or if the love Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and Americans the worst? Let’s provide our children a safe space to you feel for your partner is “real” or if inspired by the protests led by the Parkland In Massachusetts, transgender people are learn, where they’ll learn to think critically, students. on the ballot. More specifically, on the ballot you’re just a weirdo pervert. feel safe and recognize they can differ with All of this brought us to the 2018 midterms. is whether or not transgender people deserve someone without vilifying them. But most Many again had a fire lit in their belly – a the protections granted to them under law importantly, let them know that they should stick figure without a skirt on the other side burning for justice, equality, freedom and in the state. be respected and free to be their authentic standing on a toilet peeking over the divide. hope. We’ve marched, rallied, registered According to the Washington Post, “At stake selves, especially if they are LGBTQIA. Their TV spot is even worse, depicting a voters and rallied some more. is a 2-year-old Massachusetts law protecting Let’s not forget the environment, income man lurking in a bathroom stall and peering Our mailboxes – electronic and real-world, transgender people from discrimination in inequality, jobs with fair wages, health care out at a young women getting dressed while a have been jammed with flyers, pamphlets public places, including restaurants, stores, and so much more just in this country. But voiceover warns that “convicted sex offenders” and fundraising letters. And we’ve responded hospitals, libraries and gyms.” we’re also part of the global community. would basically be commandeering all toilets showing up and shelling out record numbers Now, I don’t need to tell you that minority There’s only one earth and our actions/ from here on out. to turn the tide with our rainbow and blue rights should never be on the ballot. It was inactions have global implications. Anyway, the message is clear: the waves. wrong to let the majority vote on marriage There’s no morning-after pill to fix all that’s “Bathroom and Locker Room Law” as KMAS But now what? We still have a lot of work rights for same-sex couples, for example. It wrong in our communities, our state, our calls it, will allow creeps to prey on women to do. is incredibly damaging to have the voting country and in our world, but maybe now in these public spaces and there’s nothing Unfortunately, when asked why they didn’t majority debating whether or not your family that we’ve seen just how ugly things can get, anyone can do about it. As if laws against vote, there are those who will tell you their is legitimate or if the love you feel for your vote doesn’t count, that their one vote won’t we’re ready to get it done! sexual assault and harassment weren’t already partner is “real” or if you’re just a weirdo on the books. make a difference. Some have never voted, pervert. Michelle E. Brown is a public speaker, activist Most egregious is an image on their website and others have stopped voting and still use Which is exactly what is happening in and author. Her blog radio podcast “Collections of a frightened girl looking out from a stall these same excuses. Massachusetts right now as people will vote By Michelle Brown-Blog Radio” airs every door. A beefy hand is planted next to her Democracy is not a sport. There are no on whether or not transgender people are Thursday at 7 p.m. Current and archived head, clearly indicating she’s cornered and slam dunks, Hail Mary passes or home runs. allowed to participate in public life. episodes can be heard on Blog Talk Radio, about to be assaulted. This is, plainly, sick. It also is not a spectator sport where we can Because that’s what this is. If you are iTunes, Stitcher or SoundCloud. Follow her Because sexual assault against children is sit on the sidelines, cheer, hope and pray that cisgender, then you probably have never had our team will win. on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. something that actually happens and the to think twice about what to do when you’re, people who are demonizing trans folks are say, at the grocery store and have to pee. You actually putting children in more danger by go into whichever restroom corresponds with diverting resources and attention from actual your gender identity, and then what happens Jerry — who proved to be a mature guy threats. ® behind stall doors is your business. Parting Glances of 25 in contrast to my tenuous 19 — was It’s never been easy to be trans, but today’s But if you’re trans or gender queer or just Continued from p. 6 pleasant, good-looking, all-around nice. He climate is particularly awful. For one thing, gender non-conforming, it’s not that easy. was from Sandusky, Ohio, staying for a three- under President Obama protections for trans There are lots of misconceptions about what day holiday weekend. people were written into law. Many trans it means to be transgender. Hence all of the Our stay during that hot, humid “If you like, I can show you around. We can people came out once they had the law on “bathroom bills” that have popped up across memorable July was for a week, at the cost of hit a few of the tourist spots. Take in the bars,” their side. But now the president himself the country under the guise of keeping women $50. (In the ‘40s, sci-fi author Ray Bradbury, he said. “It’s up to you. How about it? Please?” demonizes trans folks and those who find and girls safe from “men in dresses.” of “Fahrenheit 541” fame, lived at Sloan As Brando wasn’t a viable option, I said the whole “transgender thing” confusing or Let me just point out how disingenuous House for $5 a week.) sure. It was memorable (I think.) My “Y” icky or wrong are steadily chipping away at it is that those who claim to want to protect Richard greeted us in the crowded lobby, stay was followed by a weekend at Fire Island those protections. And yet trans folks who are women from harm are the same people who eagerly telling us as we registered that he had that included a glimpse or two of Truman out can’t exactly go back into hiding. They are are so quick to paint women who come met this “hot number” who was going to Capote, and meeting a lesbian couple who left exposed and targeted from the very top forward with their experiences of being introduce him to his buddy Marlon Brando. named their cottage — are you ready? — The of the government on down. sexually assaulted as liars who are hurting Party time! Lickety-Split. Thankfully voting yes on the ballot question, I hadn’t been in my room more than 10 poor, innocent men. which would leave the trans rights laws in perspiring minutes when there was a knock I don’t buy for a second that people who place, has wide support in Massachusetts push anti-trans bills care about anything other at my door. Charles Alexander is prolific both as a BTL and it’s likely to win. And I hope that by the than hurting trans people. “Hey, Alexander! You’re wanted on the columnist (700-plus columns) and as a time you’re reading this it has. And that we The group behind trying to repeal the hall phone.” well-known LGBT community artist (1000 have many other wins to celebrate before protections calls itself Keep MA Safe, and its The call was from someone named Jerry. Facebook images). He is a Spirit of Detroit taking a quick break so that we’re refreshed logo is particularly revealing. It depicts the “I saw you check in,” he said, quite directly. Award recipient and an Affirmations LGBT and energized for 2020. Because fascism isn’t common stick figure with a skirt women’s “If you’re available I’d like to, er, buy you CENTER Jan Stevenson awardee. Connect going to fight itself. room symbol on one side of a divide, and a c offe e .” with him at [email protected]. www.PrideSource.com November 8, 2018 | BTL 7 WSU: You Can’t Erase Permanent Transgender Support Rally Draws Dozens

BY JASON A. MICHAEL “We exist and we always have Trans, also made an impassioned plea. exited, but so has hatred, so has “We need to make change,” Keith said. “We crowd of nearly 100 came out Saturday blind prejudice,” Rogers said. need to vote for people who believe in your to Wayne State University’s Gullen “Leaders without morals pray transgender rights, the rights of our families Mall for a rally called You Can’t Erase on weak minds and ferment and children and neighbors. We need to rally APermanent. Organized by a variety of groups, groundless fear.” together as a community. Together we are including TG Detroit, Ferndale Pride, the Speaking directly to the stronger and mightier. We are all so much Metro-Detroit Political Action Network, president, Rogers was clear. more than our gender.” Stand with Trans, Transcend the Binary, the “We are Americans, Mr. Trump. Other speakers at the rally included Jack Gender-Identity Network Alliance, FtM Detroit, We’ve been here forever and we’re Elliot Earls from Transcend the Binary, JoJess Transgender Michigan and Affirmations, the not going away. We deserve better Fournier of the Metro-Detroit Political Action rally was emceed by Samantha Rogers from than you, Mr. Trump, because we Network, Green Party gubernatorial candidate TG Detroit and Ferndale Pride Event Chair actually love this country that you Jennifer Kurland, Robert Jay from MDPAN, Julia Music. and your greed seek to destroy,” transgender icon and founder of the now The rally was held in response to a leaked Rogers said. “We deserve better. defunct Crossroads Grace Bacon, Ashton memo from within the Trump administration But we are not leaving. You can Niedzwiecki from Detroit FtM, Emme Zanotti that demonstrated its attempt to change the count on it. You cannot legislate us from Stand with Trans and more. legal definition of gender. away. We exist. We exist whether Several community activists were unable to “They plan to define transgender people you like it or not and this is our attend the rally but sent statements. Organizers right out of existence,” Rogers said. “Here’s country, too.” read remarks from Rachel Crandall-Crocker, what they said: ‘Sex means a person’s status as Tammi Moyer, the western executive director of Transgender Michigan; male or female based on immutable biological Wayne County chapter leader for Green Party candidate for lieutenant governor traits identified by or before birth.’ They said, Transgender Michigan, shared a Char Davenport; former gubernatorial ‘Key government agencies need to adopt an similar message. candidate Abdul El Sayed; Michelle Fox- explicit and uniformed definition of gender as “We are humans and we Phillips, executive director of the Gender- determined on a biological basis that is clear deserve every right and protection Identity Network Alliance; ACLU of Michigan and grounded in science.’ I don’t know what that every citizen of this great LGBT Project Staff Attorney Jay Kaplan; science they’ve been looking at, but the science country has,” Moyer said. “If our Ferndale Pride Event Chair Julia Music. BTL photo: Jason Michael. Brayden Misiolek from Transcend the Binary; I’ve been seeing kicks their science’s ass.” government can’t see this, then come deserve every right and legal protection that Dana Nessel, Democratic candidate for attorney Rogers, like most of those who spoke at this Tuesday, please go to the polls and tell everybody else has then they are not qualified general; Lilianna Reyes, interim executive the rally, spoke passionately about voting in them just that. Exercise your voice. Vote and to represent us.” director of Afirmations and Stephanie White, Tuesday’s midterm elections. tell them if they can’t see that we are people that Roz Keith, executive director of Stand with executive director of Equality Michigan.

Viewpoint

Reflections on the Trump Administration’s Attitude

BY ROZ KEITH Toward Transgender People and Anti-Semitism

friend reached out to me yesterday to takes his side. She told him that nothing will resources necessary so he could have a future. and to value others. I will never know what see if I was OK. She said, “Everyone I change for her. She doesn’t “believe” in it. The I can’t pretend it was easy. There were a lot of it’s like to walk in the shoes of a transgender care about is under attack.” My dear “it” being transgender identities. bumps and bruises along the way, deep potholes person, to be dismissed because of who I am. Afriend was referring to the administration’s As a parent, my goal has always been that tripped us up numerous times, but we kept However, I do know what it’s like to be hated desire to “erase” trans identities and the to support my children; to love them going. This is parenting. No one ever said it just because I pray to a different God. We need slaughter of 11 Jews one week ago today in unconditionally; to parent with guidance, would be easy. to make change. We need to vote for people who Pittsburgh. My sorrow, remorse and anger was boundaries and love; and to show them that Also, I cannot have attended Wayne State believe in your transgender rights, the rights twofold. I’m a Jewish mother of a transgender there are all sorts of people in the world. University’s transgender protest of Trump- of our families and children and neighbors. child and many transgender friends. It is my job to reinforce that they may not initiated hatred without mentioning that 11 We need to rally together as a community. Earlier this week, a 14-year-old trans boy be friends with everyone and not everyone will of my Jewish community members were also Together we are stronger and mightier. We sent me a text. He and I have been in contact like them or want to be their friend, but that gunned down recently for no reason in the are all so much more than our gender. Let’s now for about a month. He is desperate for his they need to be kind. sanctuary where they came for peace. They were show the world how amazing we truly are. mom’s support, and I’ve been trying to help When my son came out to me as transgender there to pray to God, to thank God for another Shalom. Peace. him bridge the gap with her. The text was to nearly six years ago, I had no idea what to do. week: fathers, brothers, sons, grandmothers, update me as I’ve sent him a few resources to I didn’t have any transgender friends or a friends, husbands and wives were gunned down share with his mom in the hope that she would community I could turn to. However, I did for no reason other than the fact that they Roz Keith is the founder and board president of come around and accept his authentic identity. know that I loved my child with every fiber of were Jewish. Stand With Trans. To find out more about that She told him that she has no interest in my being. I knew that I would do whatever it I am a cisgender, heterosexual white Jewish organization, visit standwithtrans.org. reading anything or talking to anyone who took to get the support he needed; to find the woman who raised a family to be kind and fair

8 BTL | November 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Michigan Outscores National Average in HRC Municipal Equality Index

BY EVE KUCHARSKI cities scored extremely well above an scoring cities had no bonus points. 85 despite being located in a state like But though those cities were below ast month the Human Rights Michigan where there’s no state-level average, Persad emphasized that “this is Campaign recognized Michigan nondiscrimination protections for not a measure of the best places to live as high above the national average LGBTQ people,” Persad said. “Generally, for LGBTQ people or lived experience,” Lin its annual Municipal Equality Index. cities that we rated in Michigan averaged stating that the MEI is a tool that can be The state earned 73 out of 100 possible above the national average because used for city officials to understand what points — 15 points higher than the of local leadership and in passing work needs to be done and for citizens to national average of 58. HRC is a national comprehensive non-discrimination understand their protections in certain LGBTQ activism organization and protections for LGBTQ people that areas. Persad said that a high score can releases its Index in an effort to provide reach housing, employment and public also serve as an indirect benefit local a comprehensive breakdown of the accommodations.” industry, too. LGBTQ-inclusiveness of laws, policies, And according to the aggregated scores “From the work that we’ve done with benefits and services across 506 U.S. cities. in the 2018 MEI, this year in general has our sister index, the Corporate Equality These cities are chosen in an effort to fairly been a good one for the Great Lakes Index, we know that businesses value represent some of the largest communities region. Overall, the area’s regional average diversity and inclusion and value of LGBTQ people across the nation. score was reported to have increased by enforceable protections that include the Xavier Persad is HRC’s Senior one point, as well as other positive shifts. LGBTQ community,” he said. “So, more Legislative Counsel and the author of this “... Like last year, the highest proportion and more, we’re finding that business year’s MEI Report. He broke down why of 100s to cities rated is the Great Lakes leaders are using the Municipal Equality Michigan’s cities were selected for rating. region, with nearly two in three cities Index as a tool as they consider opening “Fifty state capitals, the 200 largest cities securing the MEI’s highest score,” said the sites or expanding or relocating.” in the country, the five largest cities in report. “What’s more, small and medium- But even beyond the potential fiscal each state, 75 cities with high proportions sized cities accounted for about 60 percent benefit, Persad put it plainly: “Enacting of same-sex couples according to a of perfect scores.” LGBTQ-inclusive protections is just Williams Institute analysis of the 2010 Ferndale was noted especially in the simply the right thing to do.” U.S. Census, the cities that are home to report this year, too, because it’s a “first- He added that for those places that each state’s two largest public universities time 100-point city and the municipality would like to improve their given scores, and 98 cities selected by members and supporters of our state LGBTQ equality group partners,” Persad said. “So, significant overlap between those criteria results in the cities that we rate for a total of 11 in Michigan.” The MEI counts points for each chosen city via a five-part scorecard that covers these categories: Non-Discrimination Laws, Municipality as Employer, Municipal Services, Law Enforcement and Leadership on LGBTQ Equality. Due to the varying size and population of each selected city, what constitues a perfect 100-point score for one municipality might be significantly different for with the smallest population in the Great HRC aims another. Persad said that this is wholly Lakes region to obtain this accolade.” to be a intentional. However, although eight of the resource. “Our scorecard is structured in a way chosen 11 cities in Michigan exceeded “Cities to allow any city of any size with varying the national average, there are three that can reach levels of legal authority to score well, even fell below. For instance, Warren scored out to us 100 points despite those varying levels of the worst at only 14 points because it at MEI at resources and legal authority,” he said. earned only partial minority credit in the HRC.org “We have 100 points on the scorecard as category of Non-Discrimination and half with specific well as 22 bonus points that reflect things credit in the category of Law Enforcement. requests for that many cities can do that perhaps all The second-worst scorer was Sterling assistance cities cannot do. Or ways that cities are Heights at 20 points. It earned partial or more going above and beyond in pushing minority credit in Non-Discrimination, education equality more and what that looks like. So, half credit in Law Enforcement and partial o n t h e Xavier Persad yes, cities of any size, political background majority credit in the Relationship with criteria — and resources can achieve 100 points.” LGBTQ Community category. The third- w h a t a n So, although Michigan does not worst city was Pleasant Ridge at 55 points. inclusive law policy looks like,” Persad have existing statewide civil rights laws While the city did earn full credit in its said. “So, we will work with cities that cover gender identity or sexual Non-Discrimination category, it only hand-in-hand to make sure that they’re orientation, it hasn’t deterred four of earned half credit in Law Enforcement, commitment to LGBTQ equality is its cities — Ann Arbor, Detroit, East partial minority credit in the Municipality reflected in their laws and policies.” Lansing and first-timer Ferndale — from as Employer category and partial majority becoming what the MEI ranks as all-stars. credit in its Relationship with the LGBTQ A full break down of each city’s scores is “What we mean by that is that these community. Each of the three worst- available online at hrc.org/mei. www.PrideSource.com November 8, 2018 | BTL 9 Detroit Barbershop Helps Patrons Express The Bearded Lady Within

BY DREW HOWARD words she uses to describe the Detroiters who she met while travelling with her haircutting ne look at The Bearded Lady’s waiting station around the Metro area. Those are also room – a bright, cheery space complete the adjectives she hopes that current customers with a beer fridge, coffee maker, will use when describing The Bearded Lady Obookshelf, standing lamp and a backdrop of today. family photos – and visitors might think they Perhaps some of the reason that much of missed the barbershop and stumbled across Hipps’ focus is on a welcoming salon is because someone’s living room. Ash Hipps is the shop’s it was her family’s business, too. Much of her owner. She said that’s exactly how customers childhood was spent helping her grandmother are supposed to feel because comfort for all is and aunt’s salon in Flint. the shop’s priority. “They always had me in there ripping foils, “I just wanted to have a place where sweeping, folding towels,” she said. “It was a everybody felt welcome, where no one felt just a part of our family. Someone was always weird,” she said. “Because I’ve both worked in getting their hair done – it was a family activity. salons and attended them, I know it could be ... My aunt would be doing my mom’s hair, my very uncomfortable for people. I could get that hair, my brother’s hair and my uncle’s hair all read on people.” at the same time.”

I wanted to make sure I opened a place where people “ who could afford to get a haircut regularly could get them more frequently,” she said. “And for the people who have a problem affording a decent haircut, placing them at a price they could access.” And the shop certainly draws a collection Hipps said that bringing a similar familial, of diverse clientele. Something in which shop laid-back energy to The Bearded Lady goes employee Vanu Gant takes a lot of pride. Unlike against the grain of many of the salons outside a more traditional salon, Gant said she sees the Detroit area. And Hipp does include many about an equal amount of women as she does personal touches in the way she runs her shop. men. For instance, it’s not uncommon to see Hipps’ “We have all types of these blue-collar dudes, social media posts of her dog Bernie – aka and they could be sitting next to someone who the shop’s unofficial canine mascot – hanging (has) got lime green hair, 10 piercings and a out with her at work. Observant customers mullet,” Gant said. “And we would all get into will also notice a possibly abnormal amount conversation.” of memorabilia from Hipps’ all-time favorite In fact, the opportunity to service a TV show, “The Golden Girls,” strewn about community with a diverse clientele is what the shop. drew Hipps to the Detroit area. Before opening “I have loved ‘Golden Girls’ since I was The Bearded Lady, she worked to cultivate a little,” Hipps said. “My mom always made fun strong network of customers through a variety of me, saying, ‘Why do you like that show about of odd jobs in the area. old ladies?’ I don’t know. ... It’s always been community, Hipps understands firsthand how something else,” she said. Many of these were pop-up events, she said, comforting to me.” tricky it can be for someone to request a haircut That fearless approach to unconventional which involved Hipps setting up her own “Bea Arthur always reminds of my grandma,” that falls outside societal gender norms. style – especially where it concerns gender haircut station at venues like farmers markets, she added. “The savviness, the personal style, “My aunt cut my hair most of my life, but presentation – is where the shop gets its offbeat block parties and various Detroit businesses. the hair – everything about her reminds me when I lived out of state or just couldn’t get name, too. “If there was an opportunity to take, I took of Bea Arthur.” home and I needed a haircut, I went to other “It’s a play on gender and gender roles,” Hipps it, no matter how weird it was,” she said. Quirky decor aside, Hipps’ shop stands out salons,” she said. “I’d end up paying 60, 70 bucks said. “If you’re a little strange, you can come Hipp’s setup was not unlike a rock band in another way, too: pricing. She said that it’s for a haircut with these weird flourishes I didn’t here. There’s a little bearded lady in everyone.” traveling with stage equipment from one gig her belief that the cost of a haircut should be ask for. It’s not reflective of my style, or how I to the next, but instead of guitars and amps she measured by length, not gender. prefer to look. They weren’t paying attention, he Bearded Lady is located at 1701 Trumbull Ave. unpacked a minisalon. “I wanted to make sure I opened a place and just wanted to make sure I looked like a in Detroit, Suite A on the corner of Trumbull and “I’d lug around a whole station,” she said. where people who could afford to get a haircut g i r l .” Bagley, on the Bagley side. Call 313-338-5122 “I was loading it and unloading it, not having regularly could get them more frequently,” she That’s why Hipps is adamant that she’ll stick or email [email protected] for running water and having to cut hair in said. “And for the people who have a problem to the styles that customers request. more information or to schedule an appointment. terrible lighting and borrowing lamps. It was affording a decent haircut, placing them at a “If someone comes in and say they want a Find the shop online thebeardedladydetroit. fun, and I’m glad I did it. ... it helped build my price they could access.” short haircut, or understands they want a classic com. or follow them on Facebook facebook. confidence.” Accessibility goes beyond just pricing, fade or something, I’m not going to shy them com/thebeardedladydetroit and Twitter @ “Warm,” “laid-back” and “friendly” are the though. As a member of the LGBTQ away because I think it’s more feminine to do beardedladydet.

10 BTL | November 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Affirmations Hosts ‘Transgender and Thriving’ Workshop via MCC-D BY JASON A. MICHAEL In fact, considering the strides made over the past decade and a half, Tanis said he briefly ev. Dr. Justin Tanis is known by many considered re-writing the book. in the LGBTQ community for his “I decided not to re-write the book because book that explores the relationship so many of these things have changed,” he Rof the transgender community to religion: said. “I felt it was more important to let history “Transgender: Theology, Ministry and stand as history and focus instead on writing Communities of Faith.” The 2003 work has new chapters and books. But I think that, helped give Tanis, who is not only transgender terminology aside, there is much of the theology himself but also the managing director for the in this book that is very current and relevant.” Center for LGBTQ and Gender Studies at the Today, with trans rights under attack, Pacific School of Religion, a unique outlook Tanis said is it more important than ever that on the topic. On Saturday, Nov. 10, he’ll be communities of faith stand with the transgender sharing his insights with Michigan crowds community. through a workshop at Ferndale’s Affirmations “I believe that communities of faith are LGBTQ community center called Transgender called to model God’s love and care for and Thriving. The event is sponsored by the people,” he said. “That includes standing with Metropolitan Community Church – Detroit the marginalized who are often treated with in Clawson. disrespect, violence and discrimination in “It was my doctoral dissertation,” Tanis said society. Young transgender women of color of his written work. “I wrote the book that face horrific levels of violence and intolerance, I wanted to read while I was transitioning, and all members of the transgender community documenting God’s affirmation for transgender are greatly increased risk. This should not be people. I wanted to highlight the primarily acceptable to people of faith. We are called to positive ways in which the Bible talks about treat others as we want to be treated by them gender differences and also begin to articulate and to treat our neighbors as ourselves.” what is different about theology done by and It’s also not lost on Tanis that it’s often so- for transgender people.” called faith leaders who are perpetuating the In 2003, Tanis’s book was one of very few violence against trans folks. on the shelves that attempted to tackle the “People of faith are among the leaders trying crossroads of transgender persons and religion. to ensure that we do not have legal protections,” “There was very little written by and for he said. “Christians are the ones fighting transgender people of faith at the time and hate crimes legislation, non-discrimination I wanted to address that,” said Tanis. “I am ordinances, and promoting legal discrimination particularly interested in providing a positive based on religion. Therefore, Christians and perspective for transgender people and our other people of faith need to be prominent in loved ones.” saying that that those who promote intolerance So Tanis turned his dissertation into a do not speak for all of Christianity or all faiths. textbook of sorts, teaching about the spiritual We have a responsibility to speak out when needs of the transgender community and the faith is being used as a weapon against others.” steps a church must take in include them. Tanis went on to say that in trying political Despite the 15 years that have passed since times, the transgender community and its allies the book was written, Tanis said that the core can use the help of organized faith more than of his work still stands up. He said he is glad ever. that during that time there has been much “Together, we’ll define spiritual health for improvement in both the understanding and ourselves and look at some of the components perception of transgender people — though he that contribute to our wellbeing,” Tanis said. said there is still much to be done. “Then we’ll consider what these mean for “Many, many things have changed since I us individually and how we might cultivate wrote the book,” he said. “To begin with, there spiritual health within our communities. We’ll is so much more research about transgender ask, ‘What can we do to preserve the lives of lives, so we have more concrete knowledge to transgender people and how will that make a back up what we knew anecdotally back then. difference in our world? Our survival and our We have also made considerable strides in thriving are acts of resistance and resilience.” greater social acceptance and legal protections, although those are under threat at the moment. Transgender & Thriving with Rev. Dr. Justin “Our language about transgender people has Tanis will place Saturday, Nov. 10 from 10 a.m. changed,” Tanis continued. “For example, my to 4 p.m. at Affirmations in Ferndale. The church original editors felt ‘transgendered people’ was is located at 205 N. Main Street in Clawson. more grammatically correct than ‘transgender Admission to the workshop is $50 and includes people.’ Now, people consider ‘transgendered’ a copy of Tanis’s book. For more information, to be a negative word. Back then, non-binary visit mccdetroit.org. wasn’t used to the same degree that it is now. People used ‘gender variant.’” www.PrideSource.com November 8, 2018 | BTL 11 ‘Evidence of Things No Tiptoeing with ‘Well-Intentioned White People’ Unseen’ Midwest Matrix Theater Season Opener Explores When Good Intentions Have Unintended Results Premiere Opened

Detroit Rep’s 62nd BY JENN MCKEE

egulars at the Matrix Theatre might not Season be surprised to learn that Rachel Lynett’s darkly comic play, “Well-Intentioned BY BTL STAFF RWhite People,” initially caught the attention of Matrix Theatre’s artistic director, Megan DETROIT — “Evidence of Things Buckley-Ball, by way of its in-your-face title. Unseen” is about two sisters, Abigail — “We found it on the New Play Exchange,” an investigative journalist and atheist said Buckley-Ball, referring to an online service — and Jane, a stay-at-home mom and provided by the National New Play Network. born-again Christian. The play follows the “Since Matrix has a specific mission to foster duo’s differing responses to grief, revenge, social justice, the Exchange has been a fantastic sorrow and faith. Written by Katie Forgette, resource for us to find work by playwrights who it opened Detroit Repertory Theatre’s 62nd are responding to what’s happening right now season last week, and will and run through within their communities. ... (Lynett’s play’s) Dec. 23. title was incredibly intriguing to me, and the The play is directed by Lynch Travis people who are calling for tickets seem to agree.” and the cast includes Rep stage newcomer “Well-Intentioned White People” focuses Nicole Levey-Hunt as Abigail, veteran Rep on a black lesbian professor, Cass, who one actors Yolanda Jack, Cornell Markham day finds the N-word keyed onto her car. Cass David Wolber — who returned to the Rep simply wants to get her car fixed and put the stage 20 years after his first appearance. ugly incident behind her, but several white, The production team includes stage well-intentioned allies – her roommate/ex- manager Kelly Pino; set design is done by girlfriend; a dean; a student activist; and a Harry Wetzel; costume design by Mary transgender colleague – push her to talk about Copenhagen; and light design by Thomas it publicly, and instead use the incident as a Schraeder. political rallying cry. Forgette spent most of her professional “Rachel Lynett obviously does not shy away life as an actor and has a long list of acting from being blunt and keeping it real,” said credits. Her play, “A Facility for Living” Buckley-Ball. “There is a true victim in this had its Midwest premiere on the Detroit show, and we get to see how people of color, Repertory Theatre stage in 2013. and members of LGBTQ-plus communities, have to normalize the attacks they go through Curtain opens at 8:30 p.m. Guests are can every single day just to get through each day. stay after to enjoy a free champagne afterglow As far as this show is concerned, there’s no with the cast and crew. Tickets start at $17 room for tiptoeing. These are real things that to $20, and can be purchased by calling are happening. ... The characters’ emotions Mandy Logsdon as Viv, Jan Cartwright as Dean West, Jessica Lauren Wilson as Cass, Julia Lynn Marsh as 313-868-1347 or online at detroitreptheatre. Parker, and Isabella Weiss as Mara in Matrix Theatre Company’s “Well-Intentioned White People” by Rachel are raw and real, and they speak their truth.” Lynett. Photo: Megan Buckley-Ball com. “Evidence of Things Unseen” will run Buckley-Ball added that the play is “very Thursdays through Sundays. new property” as it just had its world premiere Of course, neither Lynett’s play nor Matrix’s And although Buckley-Ball knows that some in Massachusetts only a few months ago. production team aim to discourage white may find the play’s title offensive, she noted, Because of that, there’s been a possibility for allies from taking action. Instead, they hope “We do not want people to feel attacked when collaboration with Lynett directly. to encourage conversation about the best means they enter the building. ... We want people to “We’ve been in contact quite a bit,” said of working toward positive change. come with an open mind. ... We always want the Buckley-Ball. “She’s done some script updates “For Dean West and for Viv, Cass’ ex- curtain call to be the beginning of the audience’s for us, which has been great, and she’s helped girlfriend, it’s a sense of empathy that propels experience, so they’re talking about the play talk us through what’s going on in specific them to do something,” said Buckley-Ball. “But on the drive home, or doing research on what scenes and specific lines.” what they don’t recognize is that what they’re they saw when they are back in front of their Script adjustments involved, in part, making doing is making it worse. Yes, they’re calling computer. We really hope the show provides a transmasculine AFAB (assigned-female-at- more attention to the issue, but while they’re food for thought.” birth) character into a transfeminine AMAB doing that, Cass is receiving heightened racial one, since Matrix’s production team had been threats on a daily basis – which she keeps from “Well-Intentioned White People” will be shown struggling with casting the role. them. ... We see this all the time. A race crime at the Matrix Theatre located 2730 Bagley Ave. “We cast Julia Lynn Marsh, who’s a occurs, and we write on Facebook about how in Detroit. Tickets are $22 adults and $17 for transgender performer, but in the other horrible it is, and our activism stops there. ... students, seniors, veterans and active military direction – male-to-female,” said Buckley-Ball. It doesn’t do anything, really, but call more personnel. Reach out for more information by “Rachel was fantastic and talked us through attention to the victim. So the overall message calling 313-967-0599 or visiting matrixtheatre. the process of our casting difficulties, and of the show is that allies can help ... but there org. optimized the script for this change, so there are probably better ways to help.” would be nothing awkward.” 12 BTL | November 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Michigan’s Definitive LGBTQ-Friendly Resource MiLGBTWedding.com

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To learn more contact [email protected] Call 734-293-7200 ext. 16 www.PrideSource.com November 8, 2018 | BTL 13 Brennan Villines ‘Make(s) It Work’ with Brand-New EP

BY EVE KUCHARSKI streams across a variety of music platforms. Then did you think you were always going to be a The thing I will say about what I do is, because Villines caught up with BTL to chat about musician once you realized that? I chose piano at such an early age, if I were fter overcoming a battle with drug his path to success, how life obstacles have I did. ... Since I was a child I literally just a singer or songwriter, I would probably addiction and an HIV-positive informed his work and his next career moves. remember singing in the shower, pretending be a barista by day or, you know, a bartender diagnoses, musician Brennan Villines that I was performing. I don’t know exactly or something. But because I have a piano skill Ajumped into the national spotlight with a You’ve said that music has been a part of your what age, but I can tell you I was really young, and I’m able to lead a band or play weddings showstopping performance on Fox’s singing life since you were 3 years old. How did you get and I remember pretending I was at Radio and do all the stuff for the many years that I competition show “The Four.” Villines involved with it that early? City Music Hall or whatever. So, it’s a blessing have been in the music industry, it’s allowed imprinted upon viewers not only his musical I wouldn’t necessarily say I was a savant as a that that early on I figured out what I wanted me to be able to have a source of income. talent, but the memorable story of his path kid (laughs), but my mom, she put me into to do with my life or had some sort of goal in Even when I’m not performing at a festival, toward healing. Since his appearance, Villines lessons when I was 3 years old because she mind, which a lot of people take a long time I can perform at a church or a theater show. has been honing his craft even further and has used to play piano herself. She knew that I to figure out and sometimes even change used his national exposure to introduce both College is also where you had a major turning would go up to the piano and I would hum careers halfway through their life. But it was new and veteran fans to his unique musical point in life. You’ve said that you met somebody the correct pitch at an early age. I started out also a curse because the career that I chose brand. He’s even used the platform to work as an like any kid; I did it because mom and dad was entirely difficult (laughs) to get anywhere. who ended up knocking your life off course at ambassador for Sobercity, a platform dedicated told me to do it and then ended up a couple that time. to connecting people who live a sober lifestyle. You did end up majoring in music, too, at the years later saying, “Oh, I’m better at this than I met Charles* and he was beautiful. He Last month, Villines released a brand-new most kids are that just get forced to play University of Memphis, which I’m sure helped would be able to tempt anybody into a pop-heavy EP called “Make It Work,” and piano” (laughs). develop those skills. relationship with him. Not only was he has been amassing hundreds of thousands of physically attractive, very much so, but he 14 BTL | November 8 2018 www.PrideSource.com was also kind of manipulative. We ended up Now that you’re in New York, what’s the biggest getting to know each other and one night I difference you’re noticing between working in was introduced to meth, which is what he Memphis? liked to do recreationally. I just started scraping the surface here. I’ve It’s not entirely his fault that I continued to been here for five months. I’m fully prepared be a meth user; it was a decision, a choice that for it to take up to a year for me to fully I made, but it certainly changed the course of even skim the surface. ... Memphis is very my life for a few years. If not, arguably, the special to me because I was able to live there course of my life, period. When I used it the comfortably and make a living doing what I first couple of times I was simply trying to fit love to do. in with someone who I thought was massively If I had moved right after college to New attractive, and I was awestruck. Fast forward York City, this is just me speaking personally, about a year and a half into our relationship I would’ve been probably swallowed alive and I found out that I was HIV-positive. And, of not know who I was artistically or mentally course, me being in a relationship threw up and emotionally. I would have probably some flags like, “How did this happen?” He ended up taking a job in another field. knows what he did and it’s in the past. How has your time on “The Four” impacted your That’s a mature outlook on what happened. Did work as an artist? it take some distance from the experience to develop that view? You know, I’ve auditioned for those kinds of shows over the years, especially when they That’s exactly what it took. ... I literally ran came to Memphis. “The Four” ended up away with another guy. I packed up my bags being the one that worked out. But artistically and got a job on a cruise ship and was away at I was never really excited about being on one sea for a year being a piano bar entertainer on of those (shows) because basically what they a cruise ship. I traveled the world and kind of wanted to do is have you sing “Superstition” found myself again. or some popular song that everyone knows, That was an exciting time in my life and I and then you’re boxed into that category that thought things were on the upswing, and then everyone saw you on TV as. One key thing I moved back to Memphis with the intention that I learned from “The Four” is that because of moving to New York — this was about six I was able to maintain some of my artistry on years ago. That didn’t happen and I started the show, I fully realized my artistic integrity. using again. I broke up with my boyfriend then. Speaking of artistic integrity, what felt right to Fast forward a little further, and I got a you about moving to New York? Why did that “real” job. It was the only “real” job I ever had. city pull you toward it more than a place like Los I worked as an executive assistant at this event Angeles or Atlanta? planning company. It was not a good fit at all. You know, part of that was gut feeling. The I learned that I could never work a day job — main answer about New York is that my I’m not cut out for that kind of work (laughs) producer is here; that I have a longtime — and that I needed to be doing something friendship with him. His name is Benny more creative in my life. Reiner and we went to college together in Is that when you decided to get back into Memphis and formed a couple of bands music? together. Leading up till now, we’ve been working on A good friend of mine and I sat down one this record. I’d fly to New York for a few days night for a chat, (and I) told my parents that at a time. I finally made the decision about a I had been fired from my job and that I was year ago to move. New York just felt right for going to go back to music. This was about me, because of my personality and with my three or four years ago and now I live in New experience in theater, too. York City. As an LGBTQ artist, do you find that your identity Do you feel that the fact that you’ve overcome influences the music that you write? a tumultuous past has influenced your artistry at all? Of course when I’m writing about something if it has anything to do with a significant Absolutely. I think that everything that went other, it’s definitely going to be about a boy down years ago, it kind of helped me find my (laughs). I would say, yeah. I don’t necessarily voice, honestly. From that point on in those write about LGBT issues, or I haven’t yet, but dark times in my life, every time I would sit it’s definitely a part of my identity in terms of down at the piano the room would go silent. my presentation of who I am. I’m definitely Kind of like when people stop in their tracks out about it and about my status, and that’s sometimes when they hear something they very important to de-stigmatize (along with) like. I think, all of a sudden I finally made that drug addiction. But those are things that I am switch from performer to artist. more on the front end of rather than sexuality. I come from such a privileged life. This was a very real setback. It really honed in on an *Names have been changed to protect privacy. emotional response that I was able channel through my singing voice and some of the Find out more information about Villines at things I wanted to say. brennanvillines.com. www.PrideSource.com November 8 2018 | BTL 15 Ann Arbor Art Center’s Holiday Theatre NOVA Premieres ‘The Stone Witch’ Through Nov. 11 Art Shop Opens Nov. 16 BY BTL STAFF Inside the Ann Arbor Art Center is the 117 Gallery Shop that features a range of “original, handmade works of art for sale by ANN ARBOR – Theatre emerging and established artists,” according to shop owners. NOVA is a professional theater Visiting the shop’s website at annarborartcenter. in Ann Arbor’s that focuses org/117galleryshop/ can give interested patrons a good overview exclusively on new plays and of what available jewelry, encaustic, painting, ceramic and playwrights, and since mid- print work is available for purchase, along with a feature of October it’s been performing the week piece that highlights some of the best available work. “The Stone Witch” by Shem However, more stock is always available in person with “new Bitterman. Available to see things coming in weekly.” Starting Nov. 16, holiday-themed through Nov. 11, it focuses on work will also be a regular feature. Simon Grindberg, “the world’s most illustrious children’s book The Ann Arbor Art Center is located at 117 W. Liberty St., and is w r it e r.” open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., on Saturday “Extraordinary art must be from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. tamed,” Grindberg says. But, holed up in a remote cabin with his next masterpiece a decade Aut Bar Hosts Trivia with Terry Nov. 15 overdue, it’s not clear who is and their souls. “The Stone Witch” will run October 19 A recurring Thursday event, Terry is Aut Bar’s recurring trivia the master and who is the servant. The play is directed by Nancy through November 11, 2018, at Theatre guru who invites patrons to try their hands at answering a slew When Peter Chandler, a starving artist Kammer, and features Dennis NOVA located at 410 W. Huron, Ann of varying questions. with literary aspirations of his own, is Kleinsmith, Ethan Kankula and Diane Arbor. Tickets are $22, and Theatre hired to help “The Great Man” finish his Hill. The production team includes NOVA makes pay-what-you-can tickets “Terry is a Yale graduate and an Aut Bar icon. Come aut and project, an unlikely friendship ensues, Forrest Hejkal (scenic design), Jeff available for those who need them. see if you can match his wit and jovial good humor,” said event haunting secrets emerge and the lines Alder (lighting design), Harper Wildern Go online for more information at organizers. “Drink tickets to be won.” of reality begin to blur. Ultimately, (art projection) Haley Cook (costume TheatreNOVA.org or call 734-635-8450. both men must face the terrifying design), Carla Milarch (sound design) Aut Bar is located at 315 Braun Court., Ann Arbor. Find out more beast dwelling in the dark forest, in a and Alona Shewach (stage manager). information on autbar.com or on its Facebook page. struggle for their artistry, their sanity

16 BTL | November 8 2018 www.PrideSource.com 13

10 6 Cool Cities 3 18 11 17 9 Ann Arbor 16 4 YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET 14 Pinpoint your ad dollars where 20 1 they will do the most good . . . 21 15 12 5 Advertise in the next Cool Cities 22 TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200 2

19 Ann Arbor Advertisers Brookside Veterinary Hosptial.* HIV/AIDS Resource People’s Food Coop...... 16 Bassett & Associates...... * Center (Harc)...... * PFLAG Ann Arbor...... * Abracadabra Jewelry & Common Language...... 6 Humane Society of Rock Shoppe...... * Gem Gallery...... 1 Delux Drapery...... * Huron Valley...... * Spectrum Center...... 19 Anderson, PLLC, Mary K...... 2 Dependable Collision Center. * Iglesia Martell Law...... 11 Three Chairs Co...... 20 Ann Arbor City Club...... 19 Esquire Interiors...... * Jim Toy Resource Center...... 6 Tios Mexican Cafe...... 21 Ann Arbor Civic Theatre...... 3 First Unitarian Church Lewis Jewelers...... 12 Trillium Real Estate...... 6 Ann Arbor Symphony of Ann Arbor...... * Lord of Light Lutheran Church.* UMHS Comprehensive Orchestra...... 4 Gail van Langen Ph.d...... 9 Merkel Carpet One...... * Gender Services Program.... * The Ark...... 5 Greene, LMSW, ACSW, Michigan Theater...... 12 University Musical Society....22 /aut/ Bar...... 6 Marge...... 10 Necto...... 15 * Not shown on map

www.PrideSource.com November 8 2018 | BTL 17 How to Dress Well at El Club Nov. 19 Tom Krell, known better by fans as How to Dress Well, will be stopping by El Club to give Detroit Shop The fans a taste of his unique R&B-influenced neo-soul. Krell’s music focuses on everything from love, Rainbow sexuality, pain and joy all in a 21st century pop There are hundreds package. The show will be on Monday, Nov. 19. of businesses that Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $30. More advertise in BTL and information can be found online at elclubdetroit. welcome everyone. com.

Invest in equality and & personal communication skills Mile Road,Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Monday, November 12 OUTINGS development. Jim Toy Community Center, goaffirmations.org. work with businesses 319 Braun Court,Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups Thursday, November 8 [email protected]. speakout. Mimi Gonzalez at the Women in the – Macomb County 6:30 pm Free. Come that support toastmastersclubs.org. Arts Festival 6:00 pm Mimi Gonzalez and meet other trans youth and teens Detroit Regional LGBT Chamber of has been rocking the mic. at prides & and support each other through your Michigan’s LGBTQ Commerce Merge & Mixer 6:30 pm protests to cruises & festivals since long journeys. Dakota High School, 21051 Monthly Networking Event. All are Friday, November 9 before being gay was spelled with three 21 Mile Road,Macomb. 586-723-2700. community! welcomed to network. Check website Laura Love Concert at the WITA Festival letters. Edgewood United Church, 469 chippewavalleyschools.org. for monthly location, RSVP is Required. A 7:30 pm Co-produced with Lansing’s North Hagadorn,East Lansing. producer@ Soho, 205 W. 9 Mile Road,Ferndale. 248- premier folk music organization, the Ten witafestival.com. Tuesday, November 13 542-7646. [email protected]. Pound Fiddle. Edgewood United Church, ferndalesoho.com. detroitlgbtchamber. 469 North Hagadorn,East Lansing. Sunday, November 11 Conversation Station 5:00 pm LGBTQI com. 517-484-1712 [email protected]. 25 and over, join GOAL each week for witafestival.com. MCCDetroit – Spiritual Gifts of the Trans discussion, food and fun. Please RSVP via Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups Community 11:30 am MCCDetroit offers e-mail or call 248-981-4227 so seating can – Farmington Hills – Oakland County as part of their Trans Witness sermon be reserved. Jimis Restaurant & Banquet 7:00 pm FREE group. Oakland United Saturday, November 10 series, Rev. Dr. Justin Tanis will share his Center, 714 S. Washington St.,Royal Oak. Methodist Church, 30450 Farmington Transgender and Thriving with Rev. Dr. journey to spiritual wellness. MCC Detroit, 248-981-4227. Road,Farmington. 248-626-3620. Justin Tanis 10:00 am Join us for this 205 N. Main Street,Clawson. 248-399- oaklandumc.org. standwithtrans.org. interactive workshop in which we will 7741. mccdetroit.org. explore spiritual health and wellbeing Wednesday, November 14 Toastmasters International SpeakOUT! Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Stand with Trans Youth Support Group LGBTQ Meeting 7:00 pm Professional – Flint – Genessee 6:30 pm Free to all, Trans Youth Support. Facilitator Sara Griffin, MA, LPC is a psychotherapist and a parent of a transgender son, [email protected] Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Flint, 2474 S. Ballenger Hwy,Flint. 810-232-4023. uuflint.org. Detroit Women in Digital standwithtrans.org. November Meetup Nov. 14 MUSIC & MORE Hetain Patel: Don’t Look at the Finger This month’s meeting focuses on marketing for mobile, November 8, 5:00 pm Hetain Patel is a conceptually driven British artist and exploring the types of ads that are best suited for smaller performer who explores themes of screens. Women in Digital is a professional community identity and freedom with an attentive eye toward casting the widest net that is dedicated to educating its members and possible through the use of digital empowering them in tech-oriented business. Included technologies and more.Michigan Theater, in the meeting will be a mix and mingle session, guest 603 E. Liberty St.,Ann Arbor. 734-668- 8397. stamps.umich.edu. speaker Sarah Jazwiecki and a Q&A session. Go online Flint Symphony Orchestra Opening to gaybe.am/SR to buy tickets. Gala November 8, 6:00 pm Join us in celebrating Enrique Diemecke’s 30th year

18 BTL | November 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com the Australia’s Thunder From of m usic Down Under at Sound Board Theater Nov. 14 Art Since 1991, Australia’s Thunder From Down Under FLINT SYMPHONY has been dazzling audiences around the world, having traveled everywhere from Russia to South Africa. This 21+ show is 90 minutes long and is interactive. Tickets start at $23. More information can be found online at soundboarddetroit.com. ORCHESTRA CONCERT

NOVEMBER 10 ● 7:30PM as conductor of the FSO. Flint Institute of Well-Intentioned White People explores 8:00 pm A mermaid themed costume Music, 1025 E. Kearsley St.,Flint. 810-238- how some people deal with discrimination party in downtown Ypsilanti. Join us for THE WHITING AUDITORIUM 1350. thefim.org. not necessarily directed at them and how an “mermazing” evening with Ypsi’s their “good intentions” can sometimes own performers Maxi Chanel and Luna Half Truths – A Book Discussion be just as problematic. An event every Legare, with DJ Jamie Register spinning SEASON SPONSORED BY WHITING FOUNDATION Facilitated by Michael Hart November week that begins at 8:00pm on Friday, deep cut soul and funk. Light food, 8, 7:00 pm Join us for a rich discussion repeating until December 2An event every Bona Sera, 200 West Michigan Ave,Yps. CONCERT SPONSOR of Rev. Adam Hamilton’s examination week that begins at 8:00pm on Saturday, [email protected] info@ Music of Vivaldi, Sarasate, Bizet of simple phrases that capture some repeating until December 2An event every unicornfeedsupply.com element of Biblical Truth, yet miss the week that begins at 3:00pm on Sunday, and Maestro Enrique Diemecke point in important ways. MCC Detroit, repeating until December 2 Matrix Theatre Parenting in Recovery November 20, 205 N. Main St.,Clawson. 248-399-7741. 7:30 pm Mary Jo Desprez, MA, and Company, 2730 Bagley St.,Detroit. 313- FEATURING GUEST ARTISTS mccdetroit.org. 967-0599 [email protected]. Amber Horwitz, MSW candidate, will discuss the importance of maintaining a PABLO DIEMECKE VIOLIN GUEST ARTIST SPONSORS Laura Love in Concert November 8, Mimi Gonzalez at the Women in the strong recovery program while parenting AUGUSTO DIEMECKE VIOLIN Howard & Rita Shand 7:00 pm A former member of Venus Envy. Arts Festival November 10, 6:00 pm in recovery from substance addiction Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Mimi Gonzalez has been rocking the Explore “parenting skills 2.0″ and include Flint, 2474 S. Ballenger Hwy,Flint. 810- mic at prides & protests to cruises & a panel discussion. St. Joseph Mercy 232-4023. [email protected]. uuflint.org. festivals since long before being gay was Hospital Education Center Auditorium, Soundboard Presents Peabo Bryson spelled with three letters. She welcomes 5305 Elliott Drive,Ypsilanti. 734-485-8725 and Regina Belle! November 8, 8:00 pm everyone in the acronym of GLBTEtc through the Edgewood United Church, DSO Presents The Vienna Boys Choir! Peabo Bryson has been recording music November 25, 7:00 pm The illustrious TICKETS 810.237.7333 since the late ‘70s. Over the years, he 469 North Hagadorn,East Lansing. group of child musicians has been FLINT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA has released numerous albums including [email protected]. For more information, visit theFSO.org delighting music lovers across the globe A Program of the Flint Institute of Music “Reaching for the Sky” and “Can You Flint Symphony Orchestra Presents for six centuries with their purity of tone, Stop the Rain.” Motor City Casino Sound The Art of Music November 10, 7:30 pm distinctive charm and popular repertoire. Board, 2901 Grand River Ave.,Detroit. Imerse yourself in the Drama of Bizet’s Christmas in Vienna showcases these 313-309-4700. Carmen Suite No. 1. It was a failure at gifted musicians with Orchestra Hall, 3711 Jazz & Soul Singer Sky Covington & Club it’s premiere, but became enormously Woodward Avenue,Detroit. 313-576-5111 Crescendo Live Every Thursday Night successful after Bizet’s death. Pre- www.dso.org concert talk at 6:30pm The Whiting at Northern Lights Lounge November An Introduction To Cultivating 8, 9:00 pm Northern Lights Lounge, Auditorium, 1241 E. Kearsley Street,Flint. 810-237-7333. thewhiting.com. Mindfulness to Support Recovery 660 W, Baltimore,Detroit. 248-445-1277. November 27, 7:30 pm Mindfulness northernlightslounge.com. Storyfest Family Fun Concert November educator and researcher Dr. Elizabeth Emanuel Ax Plays Beethoven November 11, 2:00 pm Storytelling for children ages 4 A.R. Robinson, MPH, MSW, Ph.D 9, 10:30 am The Washington Post & up by the Ann Arbor Storyteller’s Guild. will define mindfulness, research describes the artistry of Emanuel Ax as Stories and fun for all, with a beautiful, supporting mindfulness’ benefit, and “thoughtful, lyrical, lustrous… .” Orchestra homemade quilt to one lucky winner. how mindfulness supports recovery from Hall, 3711 Woodward Ave.,Detroit. 313- Pittsfield Branch, Ann Arbor Library, 2359 substance addiction. Free, open to all. St. 576-5111. dso.org. Oak Valley Drive,Ann Arbor. 734-327- Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center 4200. annarborstorytelling.org. Auditorium, 5305 Elliott Drive,Ypsilanti. Bible 101: A Bible Study Facilitated by 734-485-8725 www.dawnfarm.org/ Deacon Hattie Alexander-Key November Soundboard presents Thunder from programs/education-series 912:00 pm Come explore the basics of the Down Under! November 15, 8:00 pm Bible and take some of the mystery out of Australia’s Thunder from Down Under is Bugs Bunny at the Symphony II what lies between the covers of this book. here to rock your world! All guests must November 30, 10:45 am WARNER BROS. Held in the Clawson Conference Room. An be at least 21 years of age with valid ID. PRESENTS: Bugs Bunny at the Symphony event every week that begins at 12:00pm Motor City Casino Sound Board, 2901 II celebrates the world’s most beloved on Friday, repeating until November 23 Grand River Ave.,Detroit. 313-309-4700. Looney Tunes and their legendary stars MCC Detroit, 205 N. Main St.,Clawson. motorcitycasino.com. projected on the big screen with original 248-399-7741. mccdetroit.org. scores played LIVE by the DSO. It has One event on December 1 at 8:00pmOne event Ann Arbor’s Storytellers Guild Presents on December 2 at 3:00pm Orchestra Hall, ‘Storyfest!’ November 9, 7:30 pm Premier 3711 Woodward Avenue,Detroit. 313-576- storytelling event for adults 14 and older. ART ‘N’ 5111 www.dso.org Features “Moth” winners, door prizes, great snacks and free parking. Not to AROUND War of the Worlds: The Panic Broadcast be missed by adventure-seekers or THE STONE WITCH by Shem Bitterman by Joe Landry November 30, 7:30 pm fun-lovers! Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Michigan Premiere November 8, 8:00 pm The play celebrates the 80th anniversary Church, 1400 W. Stadium Blvd.,Ann Arbor. Peter Chandler, a starving artist with his of Orson Welles’ 1938 radio adaptation 734-662-4419. annarborstorytelling.org. own literary aspirations, is hired to help that threw humanity into chaos when “The Great Man” finish his overdue book, aliens made landfall on earth. An event The Ann Arbor Storytellers’ Guild an unlikely friendship ensues, secrets are every week that begins at 7:30pm on Presents StoryFest! November 9, revealed, and the lines of reality begin Friday and Saturday, repeating until 7:30 pm Storytelling has thrived since to blur. Theatre NOVA, 410 W. Huron,Ann December 8An event every week that prehistoric times because it shares Arbor. 734-635-8450. A2TheatreNOVA@ begins at 3:00pm on Sunday, repeating experiences and feelings. StoryFest – 90 gmail.com. until December 9One event on December minutes of adventure, mystery, romance 6 at 7:30pm The Marlene Boll Theatre, and comedy – with free parking, free Saline Antiques Market November 1401 Broadway,Detroit. tasiopeg@ snacks and door prizes! Trinity Evangelical 11, 9:00 am Washtenaw Farm Council udmercy.edu [email protected] Lutheran Church, 1400 W. Stadium Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Road,Ann http://detroitmercyarts.com Blvd.,Ann Arbor. 734-662-4419. trinityaa. Arbor. 734-761-2796. salinemarket@gmail. org. com. foodgatherers.org. Well-Intentioned White People by Unicorn Feed and Supply’s First Rachel Lynett November 9, 8:00 pm Annual Mermaid Party November 17,

www.PrideSource.com November 8, 2018 | BTL 19 See Screen Queen, next page 20 BTL | November 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com 33 All fouled up 7 Milk go-with 36 Toy on a string 8 R&B singer Lou 37 She plays Kase, who runs off with 9 Alpha, to the circumcized June in “Forever” 10 Broadway scenery chewer 41 ___-Day vitamins 11 Lover of June Mansfield 42 Queer-looking swimmers 12 New member 43 Possible format for Robert Giard 13 Dirge source 45 News agency of Nureyev’s nation 21 German white wine 46 Roof animal of Tennessee 22 Heston’s “Ben ___ “ 49 Battlefield formation 26 Sulu portrayer George 52 Climb up on the soapbox 29 Canvas covering 54 Initial sound, in “The Sound of 30 Disney’s “ ___ and the Music” Detectives” 55 He plays June’s husband Oscar 31 “Down Under” band ___ Work in “Forever” 33 Cole Porter’s “___ Men” 59 Icon inscription 34 Finnish gay rights org. 61 “Funny Girl”’s Fanny 35 “The ___ the limit!” 62 MD’s P.D.Q. 37 Eddie Izzard, e.g. 63 Fruity drinks 38 Boa that’s dangerous to wear? 64 Ex of one we hope will soon be 39 Restrained with a rope There are hundreds of an ex-president 40 Race site in Britten’s land businesses that advertise 65 Further 44 Fairy tale creature in BTL and welcome 66 It means nothing to Frida 46 Dancer Irene 67 MTM center everyone. Forever QPuzzle 47 Private’s position 68 Rank Billie Jean, e.g. 19 Word for “injure” that sounds like 48 Like the big top Across an aunt’s name 50 Circle of Uranus Invest in equality and 1 Ball lover Arnaz 20 She plays June in the Amazon 51 Having cojones work with businesses that series “Forever” Down 5 Socrates’ market 53 Responds to yeast support Michigan’s LGBTQ 23 Sodom suffix 1 Bottom-of-the-barrel 10 Type of Mary pass 56 Prepare for phone sex 24 They come in buggies 2 Set up a base community! 14 Sondheim’s “ ___ the Woods” 57 Trouble spots for teens 25 Confines 3 The Bee Gees’ “___ Alive” 15 Pinkish yellow 58 Word before admiral, in the navy 27 Hosp. staffer 4 The I’s of Sappho 16 “Tales of the City”’s Madrigal 60 Rose-rose connector, for Stein 28 Ted Casablanca bit 5 Rights-protecting org. 17 Vocal improv 32 Tried to tackle tight ends, e.g. 6 Van Sant’s “ ___ Will Hunting” 18 “My Fair Lady” composer

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(734) 459-3647 or visit 673 S. Main, Plymouth, Michigan www.HappyHoundsDayCare.com www.PrideSource.com November 8, 2018 | BTL 21 HRC Sends FOIA to HHS for Records of Trump Administration’s Attempt to Redefine ‘Gender’ BY BTL STAFF “agency’s proposed definition would people across the federal government. define sex as either male or female, - A transgender person could have WASHINGTON — Last week unchangeable, and determined by the their insurance deny them coverage LGBTQ activism organization the genitals that a person is born with [...] for transition related care. Human Rights Campaign, sent a Any dispute about one’s sex would - Same-sex couples and their Freedom of Information Act request have to be clarified using genetic families could be turned away from to the Department of Health and testing.” emergency shelters. Human Services. In its request, HRC “This effort by the Trump-Pence - A transgender woman could be asked for all records related to the Administration to erase transgender turned away from a hospital for a Trump administration’s efforts to people in the public square and broken ankle. redefine the word “gender” in order exclude them from federal civil - A gay man could be harassed to exclude transgender people from rights protections is horrific and about being gay at a job skills training. federal civil rights protections and alarming,” said HRC Legal Director - An elderly transgender person or enable discrimination against LGBTQ Sarah Warbelow. “It is imperative we same-sex couple could be denied in people in general. understand the key players pushing home meal service. 21 Years Advocating and Out On Oct. 21, the New York Times for this destructive action along - A transgender girl could be forced Transgender Michigan Founder Celebrates two Milestone Birthdays published a report that “the Trump with their motivations, analysis and to live in a youth shelter for boys. administration is considering rationale.” BY DREW HOWARD narrowly defining gender as a HHS will likely also encourage Discrimination is a real and biological, immutable condition other federal agencies to follow persistent problem for far too many Rachel Crandall-Crocker has two birthdays: the day she was born and determined by genitalia at birth.” suit in their severely restrictive LGBTQ Americans. HRC polling has the day she began living her truth. Friday, Nov. 2, commemorates her According to the report, HHS and narrow definition of sex. The found that nearly two-thirds of self- second. That was the day she committed to living fully as Rachel. Dozens drafted a memo to establish the administration’s decision could have identified LGBTQ Americans report of friends and community members attended a costume party in her legal definition of “sex,” and the severe consequences for LGBTQ experiencing discrimination. honor at Affirmations, which doubled as the 21st anniversary party for Crandall-Crocker’s organization, Transgender Michigan. Founded in 1997 with the help of her wife Susan Crocker, the organization works to advocate on behalf of the transgender community Measuring Outcomes for Boys and Men of Color through events, online resources and a first-of-its-kind helpline that’s BY BTL STAFF reachable at 855-345-TGMI (8464). Looking over her two decades-long advocacy, Crandall-Crocker said DETROIT – Five Southeast that nothing like Transgender Michigan existed when the organization Michigan organizations that serve was formed. boys and men of color received “There was a lot of loneliness. And there were people who were taking support to evaluate their impact their own lives. It was really awful,” she said. “We wanted to create a way thanks to funding made available that people could all come together so we won’t have to be so lonely through the Community Foundation any m ore .” and the national capacity-building Its 17 regional chapters alone can attest to the organization’s fight against program called Research, Integration, loneliness in Michigan’s transgender community, along with seven special Strategy and Evaluation. interest chapters. Susan Crocker cited Transgender Michigan’s events RISE is a program to better calendar as another measure of the organization’s growth. understand and strategically improve “For our first project we put out a calendar of all the events across the the lives, experiences and outcomes of state for three months - it was half a page,” she said. “Now it’s too big to boys and men of color. It is co-led by publish.” the Center for the Study of Race and Beyond that advocacy, Crandall-Crocker is also the founder of the Equity in Education at the University The Lyricists Society is one of five groups supported via RISE and the Communtiy International Transgender Day of Visibility. of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School Foundation “In March it’s the 10th anniversary,” Crandall-Crocker said. “I created it of Education and Equal Measure, a complete their projects. Organizations of its after-school creative arts one late night on Facebook, and now it’s an international trans holiday!” national evaluation and philanthropic are using the funding in the following program at Frederick Douglas services firm. ways: Academy, the state’s only To learn more about Transgender Michigan, as well as ways to support The purpose of this program is to • Green Door Initiative is all-male public high school. Michigan’s transgender community, visit transgendermichigan.org. enable local organizations to build evaluating strategies and models to • LGBT Detroit is incorporating capacity to collect and analyze data recruit and retain African-American evaluation strategies into its new in a way that furthers organizational young adult males in workforce Brother 2 Brother missions and contributes to boys and development programs. program, which is aimed at Follow Election 2018 Results: men of color research, evaluation, and • Focus:HOPE is evaluating the providing HIV prevention education program replication and adaption. Men in Motion Fatherhood Initiative and support to young Each of five Detroit-area in the early learning gay and bisexual men of color. What the Vote Means for the organizations were awarded $15,000 program, which strives to help • Sigma Pi Phi Iota Boulè to better measure and evaluate African American fathers of Head Educational Foundation is evaluating their program’s impact on the lives, Start children establish Pathway to Excellence, a LGBT Community experiences and outcomes of boys consistent and positive youth leadership development and men of color. The organizations relationships with their families. program for high performing African will partner with the University of • The Lyricist Society, in American boys. Online @ Pridesource.com Michigan School of Social Work partnership with The Yunion, is Program Evaluation Group to evaluating the success and impact 22 BTL | November 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com November 1, 2018 | BTL 23