IheEm tu Closet NEW YORK STATES OLDEST GAY NEWSPAPER
I ()( AI M W SBRH 1 S GAGV receives United Way funds
This year in the United Way Campaign 85 people gave a total of $10,211.28, represen ting the highest amount that the Gay Ailiance of the Genesee Valle>' has e\'er received from the Campaign. The Gay Alliance's admission into the donor option category of the Greater Rochester Combined Federal Campaign (C:FC) will allow federal and some state employees the option of having their United Way donation directed to the Gay Alliance of the (ienesee Valley. People who wish to give in this campaign should look for the CiACiV under the Donor Option section.
D-I celebrates 15 th anniversary During thc coming year, the 15th anniver sary of Dignity-Integrity/Rochester will be celebrated, beginning with the weekend of Sept. 22-24. All members of the gay and lesbtan com munity and their frtends are invited to par ticipate. Events will include a social^ame night on Friday, a dinner dance on Saturday and a special anniversary liturgy on Sunday. More information can lie obtained by con Get ready to paint the tOTvn Sept. 15; tacting any officer of D-l, or by calling 328-9"'58.' On Easter Sunday of 1975, a small group Dining for Dollars theme is art history "This has evolved into the largest event of of" gay c:atho]jc.s and gay Episcopalians met By Susan Jordan and centerpieces on the tables with things like ro worship together for the first time at St. this type in western New York," Sperr said, Dining for Dollars, the fifth annual gala fun paintbrushes. It will be fun and very casual." Luke's Episcopal Church. Shortly after, these "and we hope that everyone will attend. It's draiser organized by Helping People with The dance, which will begin at 10 p.m., will two groups were charted as Dignity- AIDS, will take place on Sept. 15 in a Midtown a fun evening for a serious purpose." feature two bands which will play continuous Integrity/Rochester, the first combined Mall transformed into a museum of art works Tony Greene of HPA said "Thc money goes chapter of the national organizations of through the ages, following thc theme "Paint ly. Thc goal for this year*s event is $75,000; to dinrct patient services, whether it's medic^a- Dignity (C:atholic) and Integrity (Episcopal). the Town." last year's dance raised l52,0O0. Chainnan tion, cquiptnent, or occasional hospitalization Throughout its entire 15-year history, Designer John Haldoupis is creating eight Bob Sperr told thc Empty Closet, -Wc set a insurance premiums. We do reuin 10 percent Dignity-Integrity/Rochester has continued to enormous canvasses, some as large as 28 x 34, real ambitious goa;; it's a very optimistic in as seed money for future projects, to be used meet every Sunday at 5p.m. at St. Luke's-St. which will each represent a different time crease. Wc like to think that a lot more peo for things like postage." Simon (Cyrene) Church, 17 South Fitzhugh period in art histor>-. ple arc getting involved. We're having a silent Individuals aie encouraged to hold hindrais- St. Liturgy is celebrated the first three Sun Haldoupis said, "What I'm planning is quite bid auction of donated art items which is ing dinners before the dance. Organizer Alex days of the month in the Catholic tradition, a bit different than the way it has been in most new this year." Rosenberg said, "The way it works is, anyone and on the fourth Sunday in the Episcopal past years. It's really focused on a theme— Sperr said, "This is really our second year wanting to get involved can host a dinner of tradition. 'Paint the Town'—a gallery theme. The pain as a not-for-profit corporation. We're not-for- their own, and their guests are asked to con As an ecumenical religious, educational tings will he homages to styles in art history, pn>fit in New York State, but don't have federal tribute 125 per person. They can have any kind and social organization, Dignity-Integrity has and the canvases will be suspended from not-for-profit status with the IRS. So we work of gathering they want—cocktail parties, pic existed primarily to witness to the reality of cables in the nH>f. The subjects will range from throught the Rochester Area Foundation, nics, formal dinners. It doesn't have to be a a gay and C^hristian lifestyle, and has been cave art thn)ugh the Renaissance, Impres which is advised by our committee on how latge gala affair by any means. It can be three open to all persons seeking and sharing a sionist art, and right up to modem art. There'll to disburse the funds. We do plan to get federal people coming over for spaghetti. This event more humane understanding ofthe issues in be a large O'Keefe and a Warhol piece, which not-for-pn>fit status, which would just make staned as, and still is, a grassroots effort to help volved. Its membership includes persons won't be reproductions, but which I hope will it a little less complicated to get funds. Right PWAs. from various religious denominations and give a sense of the artists' work. The largest now the Rtxrhestcr Artra Foundation is our con "People who want to host a gathering can from the non-gay community. one is an enormous Jackson Poll' on thc motif thn)ughout of relationship with them even after we get firmation and all thc details nctxied, including provide a place that is a supportive beginn splashes of paint, kind of vibrant and alive—I federal tax status. passes for everyone to get into the dance." mg point in the struggle for self-acceptance love color. "The funds this year arc designated for AIDS Adele McCarthy of HPA said "The Dining and healing in all aspects of life: social, emo "The FtH>d Cx)urt will be arranged like an Rochesier, Community Health Nt^twork, and for Dollars event gives everyone in our com tional, physical and spiritual. It also attempts artist's studio." Haldoupis continued. "There a third recipient undesignated at this point; re munity an opportunity to directly help peo to provide a process of reconciliation to the will be tables and chairs this year, which peo quests will be considered through thc end of ple with AIDS. The event is fiin, Hnancially ac non-gay community by working within thc ple had wanted. There will be drop cloths on October, and all money will be disbursed by cessible to just about everyone, and I can't Roman C.atholic and Episcopal dioceses to thc floor and easels with works in progress. thc end of thc year think ofa single reason not to be there on Sept. create communication and understanding. 15" •31 Masquerade ball for AIDS Rochester •mntaiY in tiM Lttslii€Mns in Bi—vHnIg hi AIDS Rochester will host a Masquerade RnkuMls ScHi Fromfaco Ball to benefit AIDS Rochester, Inc. on Oct. 27, at Harro East Theatre, 155 Chestnut St., PJEC's challenge Notes by a Michele Moore from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. The Masquerade Ball will leatiue costumes to Pentagon homo Rochesterian in reports on the and masks, desserts from area resuurants and bakeries, coffee and apple cider A cash phobia, and an Helsinki. Bisexuality bar will be available. DJ. and daiuring will provide a full evening of entertainment. opposing view. Conference Prizes will be awanted for such categories as best costume and best mask. Tickets are S25 per person and will be available in advance at atea locations, in cluding Parkleigh. 215 Park Ave. Tickets may also be purchased through AIDS Rochester by caUii^ Jdff Kost or Kim Parry at 232-3580 (MasterCard or VISA). Tickets will be v## pQf|# O s««iKm«i6 available at the door. Newbrlcfs, continued on page 3- The EMPTY CLOSET September 1990 September 1990 The EMPTY CLOSET Letters state and local news
not always been there for us. Yes. he did sup Disabilities Act, but Its provisions affecting Newsbricfs port a member item initiative to secure fiinds employment won't take effect till 1992. White gays Continued frotn page 1 An open letter to assist thc gay bar, enjoying one of the first warm sum The Jewish Family Service of Rochester's Niciioias WiUiams. 1991. I would like to send an open letter to the ing mandatory reporting of HIV status and mer evenings, with some friends. I didn't group for parents and friends of Jewish gays Photo by Oavid Emert gay and lesbian community. manditory testing. Gary Proud has introduc I expect to continue to author bills on this realize how hot this evening would become. and lesbians will meet on Sept. 10 at 7:30 As many of you may know, my name is ed AIDS legislation contrary to our interests. subject and every other subject of concern Outside in thc street, what started as a small p.m. Susan John and I am presently running for It*s time for a change. Susan John to my constituents — black and white, male scuffle became a mini race riot. Police were This ongoing group welcomes new State Assembly in 131st District. I have will give us thc kind of dedicated and and female, gay and straight. That's why I'm called and though no one requircd members at any lime. Michele Ruda, MSW. Writers hit received the overwhelming support of the thoughtful reprcsenution wc desperately in public office. I can promise anyone hospitalization, there was an abundance of and Elaine Elkins, M.S. Hd., serve as rank and file Democrats in this district, and need in Albany. Listen to the leaders who reading this, though, that if you disagree black eyes, bruised egos and hostile feelings. co-facilitators. censorship was endorsed by the Monroe County have worked for years to make Rochester a with something I'm doing, or think that 1 At a time when gay bashing and For further information, call Michele Demhomophobia arc at an all time high, when Ruda, community outreach coordinator at lb the Editor: chances are that you will convince me, or I have also received trememdous support by ty. Look at the list of endorsements she has aids is decimating our community, we need Jewish Family Service. 461-0110, or Elaine As lesbian writers, wc arc sending oul this ril convince you, or we'll come to a better many dedicated gay and lesbian men and received form the gay, lesbian and bisexual each other to be a whole community, not a Elkins at 244-4837. letter to protest current right-wing attempts to mutual understanding of the issue. women who are working on my campaign. community. Those of us who have worked divided one. censor an that is about sexual issues and that The gay community needs a representative closely with Susan are now more convinc Gary Proud As a partner in an interracial rclationship Men's chorus sings has sexual content; in panicular, wc protest thc in Albany who will seek input and actively ed than ever that Susan John is the right choice Member of the State Assembly of nine years, I am aware of racial attitudes Congressional ban on funding of homoerotic for the gay, lesbian and bisexual community. listen to the issues. 1 feel that I am that can within the gay community. I have never at SUNY Brockport from thc repertoires of both choruses. This Although the Rochester Women's CJom- arl by the National Endowment for the Ans. didate who will listen and continue to in understood prejudice, especially among The RiH-hester Ciay Men's Chorus will per concen is pan of a series made possibic with munity Chorus performed on the Brockpon lliesc censors arc defining lesbian and gay ex We can really make a difference in this Proud isn't volve others in my efforts- minority group members. As gays, we should form a free concert Sept. 21 at 8 p.m. at the public funds from the New York State Coun campus in 1989 for the "Take Back The istence, and any art that springs from our ex race so please vote on Sept. 11 for Susan My opp<)neni, Ciary Proud, would like to not be prejudiced, white against Black or Stale University of New York, CoUege of cil on the Arts. In Monroe County, the Night" concert and march, this witl be thc perience, as t>bscene. John. anti-gay convince you that he has been there for you Black against white. Brockport. The Rochester Women's Com Decentralization Program is administered by first time RGMC has performed on this Because being Iesbian/gay is not obscene by Susan Cowell, City Leader for the 23 and will continue to represent your interests. To thc Editor: In recent times I have noticed a definite munity Chorus and the tap-dancing Arts for Cireater Rochester. Other concerts SLTNY campus, bruce mcclung will make his definition, wc must be able to make an about Democratic Committee But Ciary s real voting record has often Lately I have been hearing a whispering polarization of white and Black gays. I have subgroup of RGMC, thc Rochettes, will be in this series have included Temple B'rith debut as Interim Music Director; the . any pan of our lives—going out to dinner, Pat Madama, City Leader for the 26th reflected his ideological ties to the Conser campaign that Assemblyman Gary Proud is seen hostilities grow. I've asked gay friends special guests. Thc concert, at the Tower Kodesh (April I) Festival ofthe Lilacs (May Ri>chester Womens C^horus will be directed back-packing with friends, raising our Democratic Committee vative and Right to Life Party. In fact, not on secretly anti-gay, and that we should all sup of all races why ihey think this is. No one Fine Arts Theatre, will include favorite pieces 22). and Highland Bowl (June 12). by Debbie Wachspress. children, or attending a political demonstra ly does his voting record reflect ctmservative port his primary opponent, Susan John. As seems to know. I have heard some interesting tion. There is nothing obscene about that an, heliefs. but he has taken the endorsement a resident ofthe 13Isi Assembly District I say theories, but no definite answers. whether or not it has explicit Icsbian^y con and support of the Conservative, Right to Proud defends we shouldn't be so quick to turn our backs I've also observed in the Rochester gay Letters Continued from previous page tent. The an that we create from thc substance Life and Repuhlican Party who have con community a noticable lack of representa tne person has "made it," i.e. when the per ofour lives is not obscene. It is about different on a person who has been a better friend to were aoout anything either moved away or "an erotic piece of poetry," even though the sistently worked against your interests. tion from the Black community. Is it due to son's economic and professional life are no word "erotically " is used in thc poem. This ways of creating loving relationships, families, his record the lesbian and gay community than most stayed in the closet." Domestic partnership legislation, passage exclusion on the part of the while gay com longer threatened. We shouldn't forget that poem was not meant lo be "erotic " or "sug and communities. To the censors, however, To the Editor: other politicians in the Rochester area. We need each other nt)w more than ever. of the anti-bias and anti-violence legislation. munity or apathy on the part of the Black there is more to a persons life than the gestive ' as reported by the Times Ifnion If our ver\' presence. <)ur very existence, renders Recently, one of tny opponents has been Ciary Proud has always recognized the Let's heal our community from within. The and increased HIV related funding are all gay community? economic and the professional. thc poem is read or listened ti> fully, and nt>t us obscene. circulating literature which states as a "fact" needs of our community, and has lent his clientele of StonewaU was made up of all areas of ctmcern that I will bring to Albany. I have made the following observations; Its true that a famous bisexual, lesbian or taken out of context, it is meant to be that I am the "author of more bad AIDS support on the floor of the Assembly. When races. In art. explicit sexual descriptions and I promise that 1 will continue to work with 1. Lack of Black (straight or gay) represen gay person coming out of the closet may humorous. legislat ii>n than any other Assembly il came to a vote on banning discrimination Before I close, I want to leave you with a depictions of women by men—both loving the lenders of thc gay community so I can tation at aids fundraisers, even though the have great benefits for the gay communiiy. Democrat." This is not true — which, as we on the basis of sexual preference. Ciary voted list of gay and bisexual Blacks, who have I consider myself an artist, and do not feel and hateful—have long been acceptable. he an effective advocate. I look forward with Black community is second only ttj the gay However, the individual should be encourag all know, is as good as a lie. The fact is that, to insure our civil rights were protected: he contributed so much to our world. Do you the need to defend myself or my work, but However, lesbian celebration of our own excitement to the opportunity to serve you population in numbers of HIV infection. ed and invited to come out. not ct)erced or as we have seen lately, all artists must do this with the excetion of the Health Committee didnt have a "weak kidney" and hide in the know who they are? bodies and relationships in an challenges sexist in Albany. This makes gay. Black men among the forced. now. The poem in question is only as Chair, Assemblyman Dick Gottfried, I am the ladies' room until the vote was over, like one Langston Hughes assumptions that women's lives matter only hardest hit. 1 encourage Signorile and his quick fix Remember the primary is on Sept. 11 and author of more bills relating to AIDS and HIV former local assemblywoman now in Zora Neal Hurston "erotic" or "suggestive" as the listener's or as they are intertwined with men's, that 2. Lack of representation of Blacks in followers to find new and creative ways to e\er\ vote counts. Tim Mains won by only infection than any other Assembly Washington did twice! Lorraire Hansbury reader's mind lets it become, until the wt>men's Ixjdics exist only for male pleasure CiACiV educate the public. C^oniinue lo dream large Il votes in 1985 f Kjur vote counts.'as will your Democrat. He's also supported our community finan James Baldwin listener or reader reaches the last two lines and use. Lesbian an presents the power and 3. New York C'ity has a least 13 different dreams. They are important. Implement concems when 1 become your next represen- The truth is, I am deeply concerned about cially, arranging for state grants for the Ciay Essex Hemphill of the poem. beauty of female sexual pleasure, the possibili interest groups dealing with gay/ethnicity those dreams, but most of all. keep them lative for the 151st State Assembly District. AIDS and HIV, and I share the belief with the Men's C'.ht)rus and AIDS Rochester. Most Bruce Nugent As lor the presence i>f children ai thc Ciay ty i>f sexually autononii^us women, cotnplex- issues, including Men of AU COU>TS Together. ^, respectful. gay community that "Silence = Death." I recently he secured a grant of »20,000 for Alain Locke Pride march and raUy. 1 do not think that a tty of lives which are not ct>nstrictedby sexist National C^oaliiion of Black Lesbians and And after you have established your Sincerely, have not been and never will be afraid to try our new community center for handicap ac Samuel Delany child of age 8 ov 9 would really get the and heterosexist roles. Ciays, Other Countries, Black Mens Writing dreams don't leave them in the hands of a Susan John to do something to help those who are af cessibility and enetgy conservation. With all Billy Strayhorn humtjr of the poem or fully understand it. Lesbian and gay art. which shows the com Gn>up, Ciay Men of African Decent, Commit few journalists. Find your own way to be Democratic Candidate flicted, and to prevent as best as we can the demands for state funds, do these sound Willi Smith Children are exposed to things that arc much plexities of same sex love, challenges societally tee of Black Gay Men, Committee on the pan of the solution. One suggestion is to get designated by the Monroe County future infcctit)ns. I am not going to shy away like the acts of an "anti-gay " man? Patrick Kelly worse than an that may be considered by constructed definitions of .sexuality, gender Visibility of Other Black Women... to name involved with the Ciay Alliance of Cienesee Democratic Committee from AIDS issues, or play "follow the Sometimes a friend can want to help you, "Ma ' Rainey adults to be "erotic" or "suggestive." and nature. If is no accident that the forces of a few. Rochester has not one! To my Valley. Theres plenty to do: write articles, crowd" as so many other elected officials but does not know how. This is how I sec Josephine Baker I will be reading this poem at my poetry cen.sorship are being led by Sen. Jesse Helms knowledge, it never has! move chairs, make phone calls, fold titers, have done. I have treated the AIDS issue as some of Gary's efforts on AIDS legislation. Cilenn Burke reading ai Wild Seeds Bkstore on Sept. 22. of North Can>lina; Helms has made a political 4. No Black bar Sadly people in the Liber give money, dust, landscape, have dinner Gay community a health matier while my opposition has Some of his bills and ideas may be misguid Bessie Smith If people wish to discuss with me whether career of pa.ssing off as "truth" such social ty have polarized and refer to one corner as panics, paint a room, work on a fundrai.ser. treated it as a political matter ed, but he's always been wilting to sit down "Moms" Mabley and manv more. . . or not the poem is indeed "erotic" or "sug myths as that a person's gender race, or the "Black section". Also evident are a lack attend an event, etc. supports John Unlike many ofmy colleagues, I have tried and listen to our views, and to act based on gestive." I will be glad to talk with them after religion makes her/him superior or inferior lo of Black employees and different proofing Note: I have chosen not to capitalize aids When Joe Steffan visited Rochesier he gave To thc Editor, to learn as much as I can about this disease. what we tell him. That's why he wrote a bill my reading. another. policies based on race. to diminish the power of the word and an important message to our community. It As members of the gay communiiy and as I have gone to leadership conferences on to ban discrimination against people with In fact. Sen. Helms, and other censors, fear 5. Minimal Black-gay artistic visibility, ex therefore diminish the power of the dis-east- went like this; "Net c«<- of us can change Oemocratic leaders representing two key both coasts to educate myself on AIDS and AIDS or HIV disea.se. No other lawmaker. Picnic gives peace lesbian/gay art precisely because public view cept drag shows (is this the role model for Ed. Note. This letter was unsigned, but we the world, but each oi us can change pan districts in the city, we feel it is important HIV and the options available to policy even from the most liberal part of Manhat ing, reading, and discu.ssion ofour work leads young Black gays?) Wild Seeds Bkstore has have chosen to print it, contrary to our usual ofthe world" I'd like to encourage you to to let your readers know about the makers. I am the only area legislator (and the tan, has had the guts to stand up for us on of mind to a questioning of so-called "normal" pat had st)me Black artist representation. The policy, because of rhe important points it figutv out h old and about lesbian and gay sexualit>'. This censor ing to listen and work together to solve I am the only state legislator who has had standing beside a proven friend. representation. never really wanted to feel comfortable with ship is being imposed nt)t just in the an world problems. the courage to sponsor legislation banning Ciar)' Proud has sht)wn over the years that To the Editor: 6. Lack of gay-minorities column in the the title "gay" My friends used to tease me but in radio programming, repnxluctive rights (iary Proud has given the community lip discrimination on the basis of HIV status. he understands our needs and our concems. Michelangelo Signorile's deliver>' was mild too erotic EC To the Editor: about going to the picnic, but I would always counseling, and classrcHim teaching. Thc service on supporting our legislative agen Fortunately, the Congress has acted to bar Let's not throw that away. Eligible voters mannered, eloquent and attractive. His goal One answer I got when 1 asked this ques My panner, my son (age 8) and I marched find excuses why I couldn't attend. Thanks to struggle about censorship of information is da, yet when looking at the record, he has such discrimination in the Americans with should support him on Sept. II. is visibility. He believes that positive and tion was "That's why all thc Black men who in thc Ciay Pride parade along with another thc suppon and love of those friends, I decid Theodore \Uentlne famous role models will benefit the lesbian. happening not jusl at the level of federal Letters continued on next page bisexual and gay communiiy. His goal i>f couple and their two children (ages 8 and 9). ed to see what I was missing. I was delightful government, but also within private corpora The Empty Ctoset is published eleven times a year Advertising Policy: The Empty Closet does not visibility is positive and important. Howe\'cr, The parade was exciting and the rally moving ly surprised. Thc warmth and camaraderie of tions and within public schools and (December and January combined) by the Empty Closet print advertisements that contain nude drawings or and fun. Our one and only obicction came fellow gays overwhelmed mc. I was also very universities. photographs, nor does il print advertising that sug the means Signt>rite suggests (outing) is, Press fc>rth e G^ Alliance of Genesee NUley. Inc. Approx- when a young man on stage read quite an much touched by thc banner thc Libeny flew imairlt 4^(H> lopic^ tif c^ih INNUI- JHT diMnhuic-d during gests (hat the person pictured in the ad is for sale or without question, disrespectful. The current struggle about sexual censor that you will get that particular person if you erotic piece of poetry. over thc park grounds. the first week of the monch by mail in a plain sealed "Do unto others as you would have them ship is pan of an intensifying climate of repres envelope. The publication of the name or photograph of patronize the establishment advertised. Our understanding of the parade and rally I made a decision that day. I realized thc Lord do unto you." Many of us belie\'e in this sion that targets many groups, including any person or ofganization in anicles or advertising is not Advertisements that are explicitly sexist, racist or Closet is that it includes all factions of the gay com planned for me a very different path in life. And ageist will be refused; advertisements from organiza IheEm golden rule. Signorile's practices flatly fail African Americans, Asian Americans, Latinos, an indication of the sexual or affectional orientation munity as well as our friends and families (in in thc life He chose some mighty obstacles to of that person or the members of that organization. tions or businesses that are sexist, racist, ageist or the test. Outing is not respectful. Each in Native Americans and all people of color; cluding children — and there wete scveial peo overcome, both spiritual and emotional! But For publication, submit news items, letters, stories, anti-gay will also be refused. dividual has the basic right to decide when Arabs and Jews; poor people, women, and the poetry and art by mail or in person to the Empty Closet ple there with children). We then question the throughout this. He has not forsaken mc. Nor to come out. Therc are a host t>f reasons why disabled; the young and thc old; lesbian and QtUcc by the 17th of thc monch. Design !«rvices for The opinions of columnists and other con appropriateness of such a reading at that time I He. Yes, I want to D Subscribe! one may postpone or forego the experience. gay FMrople—groups that have been called maierial not camera-ready are available for an addi tributing writers are (heir f>wn and do not and in that place. I wish peace of mind to those who doubt. tional fee necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the Signorile supposedly advocates for the com "special interest groups" but that arc, in fact, Erotic literature is highly enjoyable and cer Remember, it's not who wc love, but that wc hitr further iiiji»rniiilnin ffletisv urite t*t timfny (Ittsel G*y Alliance of Genesee Valley or Ihe Empty munity. However, it is at the expense of thc thc majority of "thc people" in this country. Closet. n Renew! tainly, read between lovers or read to a con love. Ciod Bless. t*n'ss l~*J Aliantii Me . Hmheslvr W l^(>ii~/J^%. in individual. Please raise your voice, within the context ittll(~l(ttJii-*JftM> senting informed group, is highly stimulating DJ.M. (Alias Betty Lou) \tf tiling /H'rsfttt s II i\ status uiti IH' ftutilisbetl n 1 year: $10 ($18 Canadian; $20 International) of this larger struggle, ^aiast censorship of les Signorile is not in a position ro judge how as well. That reading seemed very inap The Empty Closet is the official publication of the uill**ntt uritlvii itr ttt/HilfH'rtii/ssiit»/n»» thtit/K'trstttt. bian and gay an. Contact your congressper • 2 years: $18 ($35 Canadian; ^38 International) outing a particular person will affect her/his propriate for thc occasion. Counselor says Gay Alliance of Genesee Valley. Inc. as staled in Ihe life. We do not intimately understand the in son immediately to demand re-authorization by-lavirs of that organization. Its purpose is to inform Vt^ should be respectful of one another and Editor: terrelationships of a persons family and ofthe National Endowment for the Arts with the Rochester gay community about local and na sensitive, engaging in rally activities that in Susan Jordan Name significant others. I'm wondering how goodbye, thanks tM> restriaions Vtbrk in whatever capacity you tional gayrelated news and events;: to provide a volve and entertain all the panicipants. "We forum for ideas and creative work from the local gay Signorile has acquired the almighty insight lb the Editor: can in your community to ensure we do rK>t Business managers: are everywhere" and wc should take care to community, lo help promote leadership in the com and privilege to make such a determination. A gtMKlbye to each of you who I've had lose access to thc information that wc, and munity: and to be a part of a national network of les Harlow Russell Address think in a moce global sense. thc pleasure to meet and sometimes get to others, need about thc realities of our Uves as If I wcrc "outed," I would feel betrayed bian and gay publications that exchange ideas and Michael Lisa Henderson-Giunta gay and lesbian people. oints in a way that Blue Heron lype A Design Co. A one-year subscription includes 11 issues. Papers are mailed special people, you know who you are. ikes into consideration thc views of all—women, in plain envelopes. Return to: E.C. PRESS, 179 Atlantic Avenue, millions of dollars. I don't buy il. This Hcndcr&on-Giunta, I am the "young man" Chrystos (Menominee Nation) : ien. those of color, young and old. and those from premise doesn't cut it. It only scr\'es to false who read, according to her statement, "an Bridgette Andre Lorde various walks of life. Rochester, NY 14607-1255. ly substantiate his bulldozing practice. erotic piece of poetry." Thc poem in ques HIV Counselor Judith McDaniel Signorile supports outing in instances where tion entitled. "Lick. Dtm't Bite** is hardly NYS Anonymous Counseling and luting Minnie Bmce Pratt Thc EMPTY CLOSET September 1990 September 1990 The EMPTY CLOSET Justice Depanment reports that fewer than half A recent voter registration c*rivc conducted somebody to throw dollare at the problem. It prisoned because of their sexual orientation of all rapes are reported, possibly in part in gay bare, which registered 2000 new voters, begins with one thing: the level of anger and in Amnesty International *s category of broke a county record and demonstrated thc because rape is also one of thc most under- hatred men have for women. Until that **prisonere of conscience." strength of thc lesbian and gay community, prosecuted crimes. Fewer than 40 percent of changes, until the good men out there are will Newsfronts Thc prisoner of conscience definition cur Buchman said. all reponed rapes CIKI in arrests. Of those who ing to help in this cause and help in the echkca- rently includes people jailed because ofbeliefs, the boundaries of what can be said within the -Chris Nealon. Gay Community News. are arrested and do go to trial for raf>c, fewer tion process, there isn't going to be much become a true champion of thc people instead color, sex, ethnic origin, language or religion, Thc group continued to grow, and soon was community." than 20 percent will be convicted. Over half change on any other level. . . Repeatedly of a dupe of thc man in Rome who believes who have not advocated violence. Amnesty In Walesa to engaging in actions such as wheatpasting -Guy Tbebay and Esther Kaplan, VOICE, Aug. of all rapists will be re-arrested within three women are blamed for these crimes against gays bring violence on themselves.** ternational Membere for Lesbian and Gay Con handbills with messages like "My Beloved Wis 14. Violence against yeare. them, but instead of asking the question of The San Francisco chapter of Queer Nation cems has suted that the group will create "an "eliminate" Queer-Bashed Here.'* On June 16 Queer Na Gang rapes have increased by over 100 per why batteied woinen stay or why woinen who attempced to tear down a street sign marking interactive relationship between the gay com tion led an anti-bias march through Gteenwich Rights -win cent in thc last five yeare. Over two-thirds of get raped were dressed a certain way or were Lech Walesa St. on Aug. 3. Harry Britt, open women at an munity and Amnesty International members." Polish gays? Village which drew over 1000 demonstrators gang rapes are committed by men under 21. in a certain place, why don't wc ask why men ly gay president of thc Board of Supervisors, They are coUeaing documentation of human and gave thc group its fiist ma|or media cx- expected in Date and acquaintance rape aie also on the rise, hate women so much that they want to kill us? Lech Walesa, leader of Poland*$ Solidarity has called for an investigation into thc repons, rights abuses against lesbians, gays and pet>- -ptisure. focusing on the confrontation with all-time high and account for a lai^c majority of thc rapes That's the question wc have to ask, that's Pany and presidential candidate, allegedly and has promised, if they are true, to urge that former New York Mayor Ed Koch. (See the Ju plc with AIDS, which will be submitted to the stated at Solidarity's convention in April that Florida Anti-gay violence has received increasing of younger women. where thc answer to thc problem lies." thc street be re-named. ly Empty Closet,) Thirteen years after Anita Bryant's anti-gay full oiganization, as part of thc effort to get he will "eliminate" "homosexuals" and "drug publicity of late in both the gay and C>f the six million violent crimes commit -Victoria A. Brownworth, Philadelphia Gay Thc Pi>lish Embassy in Washington has Other actions followed, including "Queer campaign in adjacent Dade County, Florida gays included in the definition of "prisonere usefs** ftom Polish society if elected president. mainstream press, but the fastest growing treiKl ted annually in the last decade, nearly three- News. issued a statement categorically denying the Shopping Network*' trips to suburban malls, lesbian and gay activists arc gearing up In of conscience." PoUsh gay and lesbian aaivists, in in bias violence i^ one which is seldom or quartere ofthe victims were woinen. Yet what reports. and "Nights Out*' to straight singles bars, in Broward County for a Sept. 4 referendum never mentioned In the media, and which af services are available are constantly being cut Gays and lesbians arc now included under Stockholm, Sweden for the 12th World Con -Rex Wockner. Outlines; Philadelphia Gay which thc bartenders and customers slowly meant to add sexual orientation to the local Gays ask that definition if they have been detained for fetence of thc Intemationai Gay and Lesbian fects all lesbians and bisexual woinen — back. There are only slightly over 1000 shdtere News; Oay Community News. realize that they arc "completely surrounded human rights anti-discrimination ordinance, violence against women. for battered women nationally, compared with political activity in support of gay rights,bu t Association, said that tape recordings of not if they have been arrested for sex acts. by queers.*' The group has also used several dif which already ofTeis prtKection on the basis Statistics recently released by thc U.S. Justice over 30.000 for animals and about 15*000 for inclusion in Walesa's remarks were played tm both Polish ferent techniques to out celebrities like k.d. of race, religion and sex. Documentation, (which includes news Radio 1 and Polish TV I. Department show that crimes of violence thc homeless, and crisis center heads say that Bashers charged lang and Greg Louganis. The referendum has been taigcted by right- against women are at an all-time high. At thc funding is remaining thc same or being reduc reports, human rights groups reports, and "He said he will clean up the country of firethand accounts), and any questions may be Queer Nation seeks to redefine communi wing cx'angclist Pat Robertson*5 Florida Chris same time, funding for services is being cut ed each year Amnesty Int'l moral undesirables, drug addicts and ty rights and visibility, and take thc community tian Coalition, but supporters ofthe measuie Gay membcre of Amnesty Intemationai sent to Meg Satterthwaite, care of Rosgood Pro- homosexuals," said Cirzegorz Okrent of Lamb in Vermont back annually on municipal, state and federal Those who handle services for women vic duciions. Box 994, Peter Stuyvcsant Station. TVt) brt)thcrs arrested for allegedly beating into what has been defined as heterosexual say the>' arc confident that it will pass. levels. Hearings were held in thc Senate at thc tims of violence say that these remain thc on formed an independent denization June 16 da l\>land. a national asstKiaiion of lesbians political and social space. Thc group's han Thc measure's swift passage through thc to advocate for the inclusion of people im Nevv' York NY. 10OO9 and gays. and robbing a man they thought was gay will end ofJun e to begin to study what can be done ly crimes where the victim, not thc be the first people pn>sccuied under Ntrmont's dout. "Queers Read This," states that in this state legislature has encouraged activists. On about thc problem. perpetrator, is blamed. If a woman is raped or "Thc actual word was Vliminate, " said culture, being queer means that you've been May 17, the state House voted IlC>-3 in favor Ryszard Kisiel. editor of Filo, Poland's oldest new hate crimes law. Domestic violence is the most common beaten, it is viewed as her fault. Richard LaOue. 16, and his brother Dominic condemned to death; appreciate our power of placing a question asking whether or not violent crime, according to thc Justice Depart Thejune Senate hearings, chaired by Sen. gay magazine. "He wants to 'eliminate and our b' 12 seconds. Rape has in Joseph Biden (D-Del) attempted to ascertain in Burlington, Vermont in August. Under the us is hurt we all suffer; know that we have to law t)n the September ballot. Thc Senate voted creased at a rate four times that of any other the extent of the violence and decide what homosexuals and drug addicts." fight for ourselves because no one else will; 38-0 in favor on May 28. Kisiel said, "He's the stereotypical model of law, someone convicted on a charge of attemp violent crime, and occurs every six minuies. C:ongress can do aboul it. Biden and six other VOTE PROUD this is why we are a nation of queers ("becau.se Last September, the Bn>ward County human the Catholic Pole. . . I'm afraid there's going ted assault and robbery faces up to 20 years Murder of women is also on the rise, and most senators have authored a bill which would queer, unlike gay. doesn't mean male"). Thc rights board v's "LET YOLfRSELF BE ANGRY. Let bian and gay rights on the ballot. Broward afraid he could be a kind of Polish Hitler. Not -Assup has been criticized by some ac liberals from thc Northeast who feel comfor before the second W>rld War" every other woman in the Ignited States has systems have dealt with crimes against tivists, such as Robert Garcia, a gay rights and table with a gay rights amendment. An editorial in the Philadelphia Oay News draw^s attention been or will be a victim of domestic violence women, recommending stiffer sentencing and AIDS activist, who said of the manifesto Another advantage, said Brad Buchman of at some point in her lifetime. Domestic more vigon>us pn>secution of these crimes. commented "... thc Polish opposition move Queer Nation, a new radical direct action "When I read it, I immediately thought, this ment needs to .sever all tics with thc C^atholic United Citizens for Human Rights, the group violence is not an aberration, it is the Increased restrictions on the federal budget gn>up, was formed in April by a gniup of ACT is something that doesn't appeal to gays and spearheading thc referendum project, is that make passage of Biden's Violence Against church. . .c;atholicism is no different than East IIP/NY members interested in "doing direct ac mainstream: it is the leading cause of injury lesbians of color.. .When you set up an institu there is a lai^gc Jewish population in Broward to women, and injures more women annual Women Act unlikely, since the bill would re European communism. Both are toulitarian. tion around lesbian and gay issues.' tion now that's all white, ifyou don't look at Both deprive humans of thc basic right to County, who. due to their own history of op ly than car accidents, muggings and rafxr com quire millions of dollars to be spent to offset The initial meeting was called by Alan Klein. your group and say 'we've got to restructure pression, empathize with how thieacened gay the rise in woman-hating crimes And although choose. VC^Iesa needs to be called to task for Karl Sochnlein, Michaelangelo Signorile of bined. Injuries from husbands or male com this' from thc very banning, you're going to men and leshians feel when they hear rcmarks panions account lV>r the majority of serious in these crimes cost the nation almost a billion his views. He needs to hear from gays and les- . Outweek, and Tom Blewitl. who wanted a ha\'e all the markings and faults that our socie / bians. He needs to know that we will ntK suf about' 'having the right' * not to associate with juries of women ta'ated in emergency rooms dollars annually, such an action is not seen as forum to discuss issues of invisibility, ty has." In cKher ways, however, Garcia says gay people, an aigumetu Buchman said is often probable. '/ fer his remarks silently. And maybe with homophobia and bias crime, and were shock nati4>nwide. of Queer Nation, "I like it a lot. It's stietchins raised by opponents of thc referendum. Roberta A Hacker, executive director of enough prtrssure the working-class hero will ed when C>0 people showed up. Rape, while increasing at a phenomenal rate, .^^ is still one of the least-reported crimes. The Vtbmen In Transition, said "We can't wait for TT - :»^
\ VOTE FOR THE CHOICE OF THE ^ LESBIAN AND GAY COMMUNITY ^m
GAGV officials John Noble and Claire -'Chic" Parker thank Gary Proud for his legislative Initiative of Rosie's Announces • •• $20,000 for the GAGV Community Center. LABOR OAY SHOW! Direct Service to tlie Cofflmunity Legislative Member Initiatives sponsored by Assemblyman Gary Proud ^ Sunday SEPT. 2 helping the Rochester Community through the years: • $20,000 for handicapped access and energy conservation Look for posters with Details for the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley Community Center MONDAYS TUESDAY: 179 Atlantic Ave • $3000 for much needed chorus platforms for the 6pm-Mid with BEKI! 6pm to 2am Rochester Gay Men's Chorus Rotating Beer Specials • $5000 to AIDS Rochester for educational programs WEDNESDAY: Legislative Record Open at 6pm THURSDAY: Gary Proud has supported all major bills backed by the New York State 10pm-2am: Music, Magic Lesbian and Gay Lobby including: Civil Rights, Housing anti-discrimin and MEGAN! Spm to 2am ation, Bias related violence and increased funding for the AIDS Institute. 2-for-1 from 10pm to 2am Happy Hour Prices on AIDS Tasic Force Susan John (send from right), at the Gay Community Picaiic. Beer All Night Long! Assemblyman Gary Proud is the only member of the Assembly Majority These Leaders of the Lesbian and Gay Community FRIDAY AIDS Ibsk Force from Western NY. Proud has served on this important Have Endorsed Susan John legislative funding and policy making body since its founding. \()tc in thc Democratic Priinar\. Susan Cowell Campaign Chair Open at Spm SATURDAY: Marie Siwiec Fieid Coordinator 10pm to 2am with Open Door Policy Pat Madama Prasa Raiations Spm to 2am w/ LISA & KIM September 11 Gary Proud has always been available to meet with all groups in his DonBlelak Fundraiaing DARLENE & GAIL $3 at Door, lor diverse Assembly District. The Assemblyman has met over the years on Tim Mains Litaratura Production $2 at the Door 1st Drink FREE many occasions with both the leadership and individual members of the Jennie Bowker Marty Brown Rosemary Cahill gay community to discuss specific legislation and concerns of the Joe Carroll Chuck Collins Robyn Freeh community. Roland Longtin Ken Maldonack) Marilyn Marino CHECK FOR DAILY SHOT SPECIALSI Phillippa Proudfoot Ann Pokras Michael Robertson VOTE PROUD — Sept 11 Yve Skeet Dawn Slanec Troy Willitt WEEKUnr miPPY HOURS fram QPENIIMS I* s A LBader for Todav snd Tomorrow • Margaret van Reuth Cindy WHder Nancy L. Winter Conne in during HAPPY HOUR and win a chance for the Nsoii ts • pm — Osmscratte Primanr Ciwtiss y-i ^ww«wwf , ^ ^11^^ Yacknin first drink on the house! See Beki for details. Frtonds of Oary Proud, R. Qokoski, Itnaas. Paid for by tiw Friands of Susan Jottn The EMPTY CLOSET September 1990 September 1990 The EMPTY CLOSET PJEC RAAMs the military; Studds: investigate Currejit ACIXJ cases challengixig task force & Political Caucus take is never OK U.S. Rep. Gerry E. Studds (D-MA) called on ision of lesbians and gays firom military queers, and grow some balls ot your own, you Aug. 3 for a new, in-depth investigation of thc By Lucinda Sai^rcc Pentagon's prohibition against gay men and Thc ACLU of Mit\ncsoU (where StefEsui gzew best give your soul to God 'cause your ass is The American Civil Libenies Union (ACLU) In addition. Pruitt aigues that thc regulations up), the ACLU of thc National Capitol Area, Some high school students appeared at the lesbians. currently has the following cases on its docket Syracuse Peace Council office one afternoon mine and so is your mother's on visiting day.* * violate the constitution's equal protection and thc Project, prepared an amicus hrief to onfiiilitaryrecnuttneiit in schools Rep. Studds, an outspoken critic ofthe Pen relating to gay rights and thc military. clause. a few yeare ago, eager to exchange experiences It is not a good role model for young peo file on Stefan's behalf in the federal district tagon policy, was joined in his request by two Military Freedom Project. In late 1988, us Thc ACLU of Southem California, with By Jack Bradigan-Spula each had encountered when distributing ple to try to evict the military point of view coun. However, the case was dismissed on "Military recruiters arc bound by military fn>m the schools on the t>asi$ ofthe armed ser key House colleagues: Reps. John Conyers (D- ing the ACLU's national legislative office in cooperating attorney Mary Newcombc, technical grounds beforc the brief was filed. Rochester Action Against Militarism leaflets at city bus stops that day. MI), Chairman of the House Committee on Washington as a base, the Praject co-founded regulations to refuse tu knowingly enlist les They wcitr part of a campaign operating out vices' exclusion of homosexuals, lb me that leprescnts Rev. Pruitt. The federal district coun Stefhm has aj^seakd thc dismissal to the United (RAAM), a task force of the Peace & Justice Government Operations and Ted Weiss (D- thc Military Frcedom Project, together with granted thc defendant's motion to dismiss on Education Center, and the Ctay Alliance's Les bians, gays, and bisexuals. Furthermore, ofthe regional American Friends Service Com sends a mcss;^ that if the armed forces would States Courts of Appeals for a District of Col recruiters are trmployecs and representatives rescind the policy of excluding gays and NY), a long-time gay rights advocate and chair the National Gay and Lesbian Iksk Force and April 7, 1987, and thc case was appealed. Thc umbia circuit, where it will be atgued in bian & Gay Political Caucus have joined forces mittee office which was attempting to get anti- man of a Government Operations of institutions that. . . harass, imprison military-career counseling into the Syracuse lesbians, then it would be OK fbr the military several other Wishington-bascd oigaitLzations. Ninth Circuit Coun of Appeals heard atgument November. to have miliury recruiters ousted from the ci subcommittee. The Military Freedom Project's goal is the on the appeal in thc sununer of 1988, but no ty high schools. and punitively discharge sexual minorities. high schls on an equal time basis with thc recruiters to l>c in the schools—to be therc United States vs. Baum. Barbara Baum was with no presentation of another point of view Reps. Conyers and Weiss werc cosigners of elimination of thc military's ban on lesbians decision has been rendered, This challenge to recruiter*, based solely on "Wc feel that thc military presence in our military career recruitment that was taking court-manialled by thc Marine Corps for con .schools offends the letter and spirit of thc place in the schools. or additional information about what life in Studds* successful appeals earlier this year on and gay men. Since that time, thc Project, with ROTCKcfunn TTimutgh Campus Organizing. sensual, private, adult sexual activity she had thc military's systematic discrimination against thc army or navy, etc. is really apt to be. Just behalf of three different ROTC (Reserve Officer coopentdng counsel, has developed extensive Thc Project has been vitally involved in thc sexual minorities, is apparently thc first of its District's protections (against discrimina Thc campaign continued for several years off-duty, and off-base with another woman tion) . . .We therefore petition thc School as Radell Roberts stated in her article, I believe Ihiining Corps) cadets who had been discharg legal memoranda for use in legislative drafting growing movement to combat the military's Marine. She was convicted and sentenced (o kind in the U.S. on the secondary' schchcslcr City School District explicitly to participate in patriarchal institutions, but solely because they arc gay. been active in seeking Congressional review ROTC units. ROTC. or thc Reserve Officcr*s protects its students against discrimination duct recruitment or other activities within or meetings with parent-teacher oiganizations, In August 1989, thc Project filed an amicus on the grounds of the public schools. appn>aches to the school board, distribution to challenge and dismantle the very systems Last Oaober, Studds obtained and released of thc military's policy. Training Corps, has established programs brief on her appeal arguing that the selective based on' 'sexual persuasion' * in all' 'curricular of patriarchy which are designed to dominate a long-suppressed Pentagon report which Ben-Shalom vs. Secretary of Army. The through the threebranchesofthe military on and extracurricular'' activities, according to "Our task force. . . is ready to panicipate in of leaflets to persons on the sidewalks across prosecution of lesbians and gay men for open hearings or other discussions regarding the street from thc schools and at city bus and oppress, epitomized by thc military." I questioned thc anti-^y policy. Thc GAO study United States Supreme Coun recently refused hundreds of colleges campuses around thc sodomy, when heterosexuals arc not pro the District's student handbook. The military, realize that thc tack taken by thc PJEC task force he requested today would examine in-dcpth to entertain an appeal of this decade-old country. ROTC programs permit lesbian and on thc other hand, has clear policies of ex this matter." stops; there were workshops and speeches at secuted for the same acts, violates the constitu In addition, the Lesbian & Cay Political meetings of I'arious local civic and govern is clever, and may even work to remove the ban and its consequences. challenge to the military's lesbian and gay cx- gay students to atiend certain ROTC classes, tion. In preparing the amicus brief, thc Pro cluding and/or petM^cuting gays, lesbians, and military recruiters fn>m the schools for a lime. "Last yearns Pentagon study concludcd what elusion policy-. but forbid those students from receiving ROTC bisexuals—and has clung to these distressing, Caucus has issued the following siatemem to ment gn)ups. ject also discovered that one of the jurors on District officials: No quarter was given. The message was But to me thc approach presents a less than we already knew: that barring gay men and les Thc Project, with thc ACLU of Wisconsin, scholarships, attending ROTC functions, and Baum's coun-manial was thc same individual anachronistic policies despite many recent had filed an amicus brief for Miriam Ben- "Rochester school administrators are to be clear! A demand for time and opportunity to fully honest message to the students and to bians from serving is utterly unjustifiable,*' being commissioned as officers (the goal of thc who sanctioned Christine Hilinski for testify legal and political challenges. The mere society. Today more than ever wc need clear Studds said. ''However, thc Defense Depan Shalom in the United States Coun of Appeals program). presence of the military in the schools c^>mmended for having committed themselves tell students that there are alternatives to ing as a character witness at thc trial of another messages and fully honest statements of pur ment refused to accept this finding, even for thc Seventh Circuit, and had coordinated Many colleges in the country have anti lesbian (see above). This, and other evidence therefore violates the letter and spirit of the tocreatinganenvironment in which students militar)' careers, and that there are definite pose. We need means consistent with t)ur though it came frt>m its own researchers." thc filing of other supponive amicus briefs as discrimination clauses which prohibit of impn>per practices, led to thc reversal of District s anti-discrimination pnitections. are free to learn without having to fear that drawbacks to joining the armed services; well. ihey will be the targets of haired or abuse drawbacks that a young pnrrson might not be goals. "The General Accounting Office is a discrimination t>ascd on sexual orientatton. At Baum's conviction and thc correction of her Somr months ago. Edward Orlando, an at- respected, impartial agency — armed with, HUinski »>-. V.S. Marine Corps. In a case these schools, thc presence of ROTC directly miliury records, but not before she had serv tom'.y in the District's Legal Cxiunsel's Office, because of their gender, ethnic heritage or sex told about until after enlistment—too late, too As Radell Roberts writes, "Working for ap ual orientation. The policies that the Rochester bad. The possibility ofbeing a conscientious propriate reft>rms that confront current power subpociu power — that will undertake a study which combines free speech principles with contradicts thc university's anti-discrimination ed nearly eight months in prison. d^xlincd to lake action to remove thc military, wider in scope than that conducted by thc Pen a challenge to the military's anti-gay policy, thc .schot)ls have adopted for pnHecting their objector to military solutions was also includ structures can lessen our immediate pain, policy. Even in the absence of such a policy, Vnited States vs. Holobaugh. During his ^naintaining that the recruiters have not tagon.", he said. "In addition to investigating Project represents former Marine Sgt. Christine however, the military's discrimination against violated the law (as opptjsed to school policy)- students fn>m bias are well-defined and ed in the information that the anti-military bring us power or knowledge to move f<)r- senior year as an ROTC scholarship student at ward, and give us room to breathe while work the policy's rationale, or lack thereof, thc GAO R. Hilinski, who was demoted after she had lesbian and gay students undermines a col He did, howexer, refer the matter to the Board appn)priaie. recruitment campaign wanted made available testified as a character ivitness for a woman Washington University in St. Louis, James "Howe\er schl officials undermine their to high school students. ing loward more substantial revolutionary will prt)vide specific cost breakdowns and lege's mission and the principles of academic Holobaugh * 'came out'' to thc military. The Ar of Education's Policy Review and Develop statistics on who is most likely to fall victim chatgcd with homosexual acts at Parris Island, freedom. ment Committee, chaired by Rachael Hedding. commitment to eliminating prejudice from the In ct)ntrasi to the AFS<; Syracuse campaign, change. But wc need to be careful not to mere S.C my began immediately discnrollment pro ly become incorporated into oppressive to the ban." On July 19 the Committee held a public learning envin>nment by inviting the bmnches the current attempt by the Peace and Justice In the past year, organizers have challenged ceedings against him. Moreover, although an systems, feeding the in.stitution of domina "Wc know, for example, that women are Under questioning at thc trial, Sgt. Hilinski ROTC's policy on dozens of campuses around meeting at the District's Broad St. offices. ofthe U.S. miliiary to recruit on the campuses. Education Center task force to rid the high Army investigation found that there was no tion .'' Roberts was speaking against the appeal three times more likely to be discharged for testified that the accused woman did "a fine the countr)'. TheProject. and often thc ACLU fraud on Holobaugh's part, and that he had Repix:sentativesofRAAM/PJEC,C.AC;V,andthe Where the policies of the Rochesier school schls of military recruiters tn)ubles me, not some women in the military are making to homosexuality than men, and that enlisted job" and that her work had not t>een affected affiliates, have been instrumental in providing volunurily stepped forward as soon as he New York Cjvil Liberties Union attended and system seek to eliminate bias, the policies of because of the goal but because ofthe means feminists to embrace the cause of gaining the personnel are dealt with much more harshly by her homosexuality. As a result of and in information, strategy, speakers, and suppon realized he was gay. the Army preliminarily spoke. Below are selections frt)m the text of the Department of Defense mandate it. being used. I do not want to rid the schrdinated and distributed an informa $25.(MM) costs of his ROTC scholarship. RAAM/PJEC: the Army. Navy, Air Force and Marines that the armed services will not accept gays and les danger t>f being .seduced into using tactics that dollars and disturbing inconsistencies regar discriminatory policy, her commanding of tional packet to over 600 campus organizers • Dear Ms. Hedding: As you know. Rochester discriminate against homosexual people con bians. I want to rid the schools of military The Projecn, with cooperating attorney Marc tradicts the schcHjIs* stated policies. We ask that recruitment activities because young pet)plc emulate those used by our oppressors, tactics ding race, sex and rank will further underscore ficer demoted her and put a negative repon nationwide. Thc Pnjject is currently planning Action Against Militarism. . has undertaken the glaring need to reverse the policy im Wolinsky, assumed representation of you explain this contradiction, and we look who enter the services are entering the institu which are not good educational models for in her file. In response to the situation, and a nationai conference on ROTC to train cam Holobaugh in appealing that preliminary an initiative to have militar> a-cruiiep* e.xcJud- our youth and which might backfire. If the ar mediately" others, a board of inquiry to investigate im pus organizers; the conference has been ten ed from the school district, ba.sed on the for\\ard to your quick response." tion which is a cornerstone of patriarchy. order. The Project secured letters in supports The Schciol Boani, RAAM/PJEC, and the Mone> spent for the miliiary is mone>- diverted my suddenly accepted homosexuals, and Studds has requested that thc study be com proper command influence was recently tatively set for November. 1990. of Holobaugh from Washington University — milit:iry 's systcmutic and t^xpUcit discrimina- recruiters stayed in or re-entered the schot>ls. pleted before the year's end, clearing the way convened at Parris Island. lu>n a^a\nst gavN. \cshians, anti b\sexua\s. P<.>litical C/aucus are now studying thc matter fn>m the resources that women and children Secora IS. Fox. Plaintiff was discharged fix>m which denounced the Army's F>olicy of further School Board member Rachael Hed need. what would PJECVs message be? for C^ongressional hearings on the policy ear Mean^vhile, the Proiect has petitioned the the Air Force on grounds «>f hotnosexualUy. disenroWtng lesbian and gay students from tV»c • Although tbe record in lower ct)urts has ly in the next session of congress. Board for Corrections of Naval Records to cor Represented b>- the ACLL: of Ohio and been mixed, thc U.S. Supreme Court several ding anticipates that thc full Board will take The training young people experience upon To me the army (and other armed services) rect Sgt. Hilinski's records. ROTc: pn>gram — and from a group of 24 up the question in September or shortly entering the armed services contains techni is not OK when it accepts poorly educated cooperating counsel, he filed suit seeking members of (>)ngress led by Congressman months ago in effect upheld [this discrimina Off-Limits Order Cases. Thc pn>iecl has in reinstatement and back pay. In December, Gerry Studds. In mid-May, the Army notified tion). The military has long considered thereafter. ques and language that women and members people and upgrades their education; it is not vestigated and is monitoring the actions ofthe PJEC and (iACiV both need more voices to ofoiher oppressed groups, including gays and OK when it lets white men and men of color Shilts plans book 1989, a federal district court denied the Air Holobaugh that it would not seek repayment homosexuality and bisexuality 'incompatible I ;nited States militar)' in placing certain Force's motion to dismiss the case and ruled ofthe 525,000. with military service." be added to this campaign Btnh thc PJHC of lesbians. rect)gnize as promoting values of fight and work side by side; it is not OK when Best-selling author Randy Shilts is seeking establishments "off-limits" to military person that the plaintiff's right to an individualized Watkins vs r.S Army. The ACLU of "Having declined to (nerturn the military's fice at the Cienesee <;o-op. "^13 Monroe Ave.. misogyny, violence, homophobia, domina it accepts women and allows them to enter interviews with lesbian and gay military per nel on the basis that these businesses "cater sutement of why he should not have been re Washington, with cooperating atiomey Jim tradition" in this regard, the Supreme Court and the (iay Alliance. HV Atlantic Ave., have tion, and dehumanization. Radell Roberts, combat; it is not OK when it accepts homosex sonnel for a new book to examine thc issue to homosexuals." Such orders prohibit military- tained had been violated. The court relied on Lobsenz. originally filed this landmark case in has made local efforts against such discrimina resources that can supply you with much more writing in the Women's Info Newsletter uals; it is not OK period. And it is especially of gays in the armed forces. personnel from visiting these businesses and an Air Force regulation which suted that it 1979. Nearlv 10 years later, a panel of thc tion more urgent. People in Madison. Wis.; information on the military's abuse of sexual ("Women and the Military: The Right To not OK that only thc military's description of Shilts is thc national correspondent of the penalize those who do. Thc Project believes minorities If you want to get involved, call Fight." May 199())quotedamansreportof his the military career be presented to young peo that these orders deprive service personnel of would make an exception to its policy of United Sutes Court of Appeals for thc Ninth Philadelphia. Pa.; and San Diego, Calif, among San Francisco Chronicle and author of And dischaiging servicemcmbers if "there is no Circuit ruled for the first time in our nation's others, have challenged the military presence Jack at PJEC (i^^-'^U^Dor leave a message for drill instructor's words: "Unless you women ple, whether lesbian, gay or heterosexual, in The Band Played On: Politics, People & The their constitutionally protected rights of free the Caucus at (,A(;V (244 8640). get with the program, straighten out the high schools. association. current pattern of homosexuality and the air- history that sexual orienution discriminarion on campuses and elsewhere. AIDS Epidemic, and The Mayor of Castro man's ability to perform miliury service has was constitutionally suspect. The panel's deci- 1 Street: the Ufe and Times of Harvey Milk. Pruitt V.S. Cheney. This case challenges the not been compromised." The judge directed sion was \'acated by a larger panel ofthe Cir- "After thc success of thc Band, a lot ot armed services regulations which require ihe Air Force to consider the particular facts cuit C.ourt the following year but the Army people said I shouldn't write about gay dischaf>;e of lesbians and gay men even when of Secora's case and provide a "reasoned ex was nonetheless ordered to reinstate Watkins topics any more, but as I look around at the person's actual military conduct is ex planation' * of why he did or did not meet that on narrower, non-constiiufionai grounds. In society, it still strikes me that anti-gay pre emplary and there has been no allegation of exception. so ruling, the court specificAWy stated that prohibited homosexual conduct. The plaintiff, SPECIALIZING IN pigm woman for rt^ REPAIRS judice is one of thc great wrongs that con Steffan vs. Cheney. }oe Sieffan was six weeks Watkins'ser\icc as an openh gay soldier tinues in America — I must write about it," an Army reserve officer and a lay minister, from graduating at the top of his class at the created no harm to the public interesi and. in INNOVATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY ADDITIONS said Shilts. granted an interview with the Los Angeles Naval Academy at Annapolis, when the Navy. deed, that thc Army was lucky to have him. REMODELS Times. The Army discharged her fn>m the discovering his sexual orienution, forced him This is the only appeals court case in the na- "1 can't think of an is.sue that more clear reserves ba.sed solely on her public affirmation to resign. Represented by Lambda Legal tions histor\ in which the miliury has been ly illustrates the human damage created by of her hLESBOPHOBIA! Any size jobs at all IN THE INTIMACY OF YOUR OWN HOME Free estimates TUIiSDAYSATliUDAV ll-9/SUNDAY 12 5 DOLORES & ELLEN Call & leave message THUHSDAV open til 5:00 271-0030 325-1198 ^^-i«niEMM •fti
The EMPTY CLOSET September 1990 September 1990 The EMPTY CLOSET
Now (within thc past several years) there interviews and anicles, mostly about gay Lesbian getting their rigihts and their sanity; are lots of lesbians at LJnioni and in thc men. According to l^rhi, one problem is that women's movement. They have found a therc are only a few people who are willing legitimate place there and no longer feel un to t>e open and public about their sexuality. The traditional social atmosphere comforuble. Lesbians work there. They use I saw t>ne TV show at>out transvestites and the observations of an Anierican feminist in Finland thc center for meetings and social gather almost all the shots wcrc from behind the By Melora MlUcr group similar to Rochester's Lesbian ings. Last month, lesbtm kevatta-fiminaario person, keeping their anonymity. Only one of Finland is vety non-erotic. . . Gay bill which makes illegal "public encourage share of thc space and time. There arc also Resource Center, and a group for older (a lesbian spring seminar) was held at Villa Although I arrived in Helsinki at the end several resuurants/bais outside the establish person's face was shown. of August of 1989, it wasn't until the end of ment of homosexuality," or rather "fornica women (over 30). Salin. It's exciting to participate in these In 1984 Tlie Many Faces of Love was people are thus seen as *'others'' tion between members ofthe same sex," as ed gay community where you can meet By 1892, there was a strong feminist rapid changes. Hopefully this blending of October that I had my first major lesbian ex people. published. It was thc first Finnish book perience. Little did I know it was herstory thc law puts it. Although gay pubUcations movement in Finland and it continues today. feminists and lesbians will be a positive published about gay men and lesbians. wcrc left alone, in thc '70s several TV and Accoiding to Tferhi Saarinen, one of thc in thc making, it was called a *'Glamour Thc current wave of feminism began in the caulyst. Several years later the first Finnish book (they are seen as sexual), because radio shows were uken to coun for presen most imporunt issues for lesbians is to find Dance," with gowns and tuxes and sweep late '70s. Thc Feminist Women's Union in Another imporunt issue that Itrhi thinks about lesbian sexuality by lesbians was ting a favorable view of homosexuality. To lesbian space—space to meet with other les ing music from the '30s extravagant movies. herited several buildings from wealthy is imporunt for lesbians is finding positive published. It is called Cruel V^men. It con day, this pan of the law is not enforced. bians and other women—space in thc gay people can't come to terms with It was imporunt t>ccause it turned out u> be feminist women, to be used by and for self-images. It's true that in Finland strong uins photos of panics and performances of a lesbian dance. For once the lesbians were In the '80s the mcnul health people community, in thc fcministAvomcn's move women. There is a women's center in the women have always been valued. Also it has ment, in the outside world. S&M and a fictionalized text. The book got out and more than just visible as they claim declared that homosexuality was no longer middle of town. Many women's groups meet not been unusual for women not to marry. lots of publicity even in the Helsinki thier own feelings. To go even one ed their legitimate space at Untoni to be regarded as an illness. Akanat, the first lesbian group, was form there. Therc arc three full-time staff This was possibic because by 1900 at least Sanomat, Helsinki's version of thc Naisasialiitto Suomessa (Feminist Women's Thc gay oiganization SETA (Ofganization ed 10 years ago. SETA has been an organiza members. Naisten Aani/Akkavaiti, a 50 percent of all women held full-timc pay Democrat & Chronicle. Also, a woman was step further in Finnish, there is no Union in Finland). for Sexual Equality) staned around 1974. All tion whose main interest is in thc struggle women's magazine, has its office there with ing jobs. Unfortunately, according to Kersti interviewed on TV wearing a face mask. gay activities in Finland are usually related for sextui equality and equal rights for gays. two full-time workers. Also there is a library, Juva, "The traditional social atmosphere of Several people I interviewed thought this Helsinki, Finland is somewhat laiger than Most of their effons have been directed out Rochester (about 500,000 people) and is the to gay organizations which are tied to SETA. and a coffee house open for women every Finland is very non-erotic, in fact express book was written for thc male publisher, and word for ''feelings." Outside Helsinki, SETA hires local resuurants ward from the community. They have not aftcmoon, beginning at four o'clock. On ing any positive emotions, physically in par felt the book was negative towards women. main city of Finland. It is located in Nor promoted a sub-culture for gays, but rather thern Europe, between thc USSR and or discos for private evenings for gays. In Lautusaari, a beautiful island, the women ticular, is felt to be awkward." Gay people Lesbians must depend on boolcs. felt that people should integrate into socie thc past 20 years, so these women's impres Sweden. Finland is known as the land ofthe Helsinki, therc is one gay bar, Gambrini's, own Villa Salin, where during the summer are thus seen as "others" (they are seen as magazines and ideas coming from other lesbian hcrv>incs. ty. Thc lesbians wcrc morc interested in for sions will not be lost. Several women arc ap sauna and the midnight sun. The main sauna which opened in 1984. SETA owns 50 per many women's courses are offered. During sexual), because people can't come to terms countries. Translations arc often needed. It's an exciting time for thc lesbian com ming a community. They wanted to do more plying for a grant to do more interviews and in Helsinki is a lesbian's dream come true— cent of Gambrini's. Thc rest is privately own the year gn>ups meet therc also and there ait with their own feelings. To go even one step Outside information does not always relate munity in Helsinki. Many new/young les with lesbians. A lesbian group was formed. publish a book. More lesbian books arc be women, sauna, nude swimming and then ed by gays. weekend courses and therapy groups. further in Finnish, there is no word for "feel to the unique situations of Finnish culture. bians are coming out; many arc involved at ing ordered for the library at the women's coffee overlooking the pool. ings." Lesbians have to deal with their own More courses and money are needed for unioni. One wonders what kind of changes center There is a theatre group. Naistraktori Finland was the second country in the feelings about sexuality, etc. in a communi research in women's studies and for gay and will be made toward a more op>en lesbian ty that sees them as other, and that has dif lesbian studies at the university. (Women's Tractor—named after a discussion future. world to give women thc right to vote with some Soviet women) which presented (I906). It was the first govemment to place Finland is known as the land of the sauna and the midnig^ ficulty in dealing even with heterosexual Some people are working hard to make Ntttes: feelings. their version of "Markiisitar ja noviisi" (The 1. Juva. Kersti "What's Wrong With These women in Parliament (1907), and they positive lesbian images more visible. One Marquise and the Novice) at thc feminarium In the 1970s, because of the law, there was People? . SETA 2-3/84. started out with 19 women. group is working at Unioni lo put together to a lesbian audience. The have also sun. The main sauna in Helsinki is a lesbian's dream nothing positive about gays and lesbians in 2. Mansson. Ulf "Gavs and the Finnish Finland has mostly been an agricultural a lesbian archives. Terhi has interviewed a presented several impnnisational skits with country with small farms, lots of cold the media. Since 1980, there have been more number of lesbians about life in Finland in Law . SETA 2-3.84. weather and rtKky fields. Because survival come true — women, sauna, nude swimming and then in Finland was such a struggle, women were not seen as fragile sex objects, or property, coffee overlooking the pool. but more as necessary partners. Finland did not become industrialized until the ROCHESTER HISTORICAL BOWLING I960s-70s. Since thc '60s, thc structure of SOCIETY society has changed rapidly. Today Helsinki Ciambrini's has lesbian nights two Satur SETA men felt threatened that women Although there probably have been les is a very modem city. days a month. Several years ago, the only wanted their own space; thc women did not bians involved in thc feminist movement all Terhi Saarincn said that in Finland, "Cays night available for lesbians was Sunday. Many want to deal with thc SETA hierarchy; com along, they have not been visible. It seems and lesbians got their rights in thc '70s and women come from miles away for these munication broke down. So in 1983-84 the The Empty Closet 1990 - 1991 BOWLING SEASON STARTS ON as though neither thc feminists nor the les their sanity in thc '80s." Terhi has been do evenings because this is their only bar. Since lesbians became separate from SETA. Several bians were willing to bring up and deal with ing research on lesbian herstory of the past lesbians cmly have two nights a month for years later people began working together is avaiiable at... lesbian issues and sexuality. Around 1979 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH AT 7:30 PM AT 20 years in Finland. In the '70s homosexuali social gathering, you can imagine the again. Now women work on thc SETA many ideas and theories about feminism AIDS Rochester Inc.. Anthony's 552. Avenue Pub, Bachelor Forum. Cheesy Eddie's. ty became legal with the age of consent be pressure and stress that is placed on women hotline and on other SETA activities as well came to lesbians from lesbian feminists of Gay Alliance, Genesee Co-Op, Joseph's, Uberty, Mama Tacone's. Parkleigh, Paul's ing IK (thc age of heterosexual consent is 15). lo meet others and to have a good ttmcf One as on their own projects. There are a number other countries. Slowly, a more positive self- Grocery, Rochester Body Club, Rosie's, Silwood Books. Tara, Video Channel, Village However, an amendment was added to the CLOVER LANES. 2750 MONROE AVENUE wonders why lesbians have such a small of lesbian groups. For insunce, there is a image began to srow. Green Bookstore. Wild Seeds Bookstore & Cafe, Worldwide News, Mike's State Street Pub. Jazzberry's Uptown. Whispers and Metro FOR MORE mFORMAT\ON, C^LL 654-6461
Enjoy Our Patio For Dining WHITE SPRUCE Addressing the needs And Cocktails of gay, lesbian & UYlVdYl bisexual individuals & their tamilies Lunch Monday-Friday 11:30-2 pm ASSOCIATES •^fe- Providing individual, couple & family therapy Dinner Monday-Thursday 5-10 pm Friday & Saturday 5-11 pm Alcoholism & Sexuality & Cocktail Lounse co-depcndency issues gender-related concerns Open Sunday 4-11 pm. Light menu until 8 pm • Relationship problems Martha M. Howden, CSW, CAC WUliam KcUy, CSW, CAC 153 Liberty Pole Way Credentialed Alcoholism Counselor Credentialed Ateoholism Counselor Entertainment on Saturday nights. Certified Sex Therapist 716-232-4719 Steven Di Elavis, CSW, CAC 40 South Union Street Credentialed Ak:oholism Counselor Frankly, my dear, 496 White Spruce Blvd. 272-7210 we DO give a damn!
HAPPY HOUR — Monday thru Friday 4-7 pm Well Drinks & domestic bottle beer — $1.50 CUSTOM CERAMIC All Schnapps — $1.25 Hors d'oeuvres INSTALLATION & REPAIR SATURDAYS — Happy Hour — 12-7 pm Commercial • Residential Card Tournaments Fully Insured • References Available SUNDAYS — Tea Dance — 4-8 pm — LIVE DJ Guaranteed Craftsmanship Happy Hour Prices & "BEULAH" BLENDER DRINKS look To The Last Letter For The First Wonl In Reitiodeling" WEDNESDAYS — 2 for 1 — 9pm to 1am FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS — Drink Specials ENJOY OUR 'NEW ' PATIO & ENCLOSED YARD! 254-4128 %9^ CERAMIC ASK ABOUT OUR OTHER SERVICES IO The EMPTY CLOSET September 1990 September 1990 The EMPTY CLOSET
WEDNESDAY Ptotluck dinner and drop-in social for Lesbian Writers Group. 4 pm O N O I N MONDAY WEDNESDAY people with AIDS and ARC, HIV- SUNDAY CAGV- !79 Atlantic Ave WiH now mee? 26 positives and their friends, lovers and September every third Saturday (sec ONGOING). supporters. Christ Church. 141 East FRIDAY Ave.. 7-9 pm. Bring a dish to pass if you Rochester Theater Organ Concert. Lesbian Resource Center. Coming Rochester Lesbian Action Coali Rochester Women's Community 16 SUNDAY can. Third Thursday. 14 Call Out and About: Scott. 288-8914 out discussion. Gay Alliance Communi tion, Gay Alliance lounge, 713 Monroe Chorus, rehearsals. Pinnacle Place, The Gay AUiance of Genesee Women. Word and Song. "We Are or Bob. 442-7185 ty Center 179 Atlantic Ave.. 7:30 pm. Ave.. 7 pm. Third Monday. Tanya, 919 S. Clinton Ave.. 6:30-8:30 p.m. SATURDAY Rochester Rangers Carnival & Bar More Light Support Group for gay Gay Alcoholics Anonymous, clos Valley (GAGV) is located at 179 Empty Closet copy deadline. Ar the Weave:s. We Are the Web" Womer- and lesbian peopie and friends. 12:30 256-1202. Night. 8 pm-midnight. Tara. 153 Liber Gay Alliance t>oard of directors ed. St. Luke's-St. Simon Cyrene Atlantic Ave. Peer facilitators ticles, letters to the editor, classifieds. created and directed Christian worship. pm. second and fourth Sundays. ty Pole Way Carnival games, prizes, meeting. Gay Atllance. 7 pm. Second Church. 17 S. Fitzhugh St.. 8:30 p.m. hotline, Sunday-Friday 6:30-9:30 8 non-camera-ready ads. 244-9030. 7:30 pm. HMetropolitan Community Church, 14607-1255. University Ave. S5-50 siding scale. Film Night. "Two in Twenty." Lesbian Empty Closet mailing party for the 243 Rosedale St., 6 p.m. 271-8478. tion call 423-0690, 328-2220 (days) SUNDAY Volleyball. 8 pm. Camp Eastman. soap opera. (Conclusion next month). October issue. 7-9 pm, 179 Atlantic or 442-8134 (evenings). Music by JoAnne Casey. Martha Brown. Aiso Sundays. Bonnie Abrams. 8:30 pm. free. Wild Seeds Bookstore 23 Ave. 244-9030. and Cafe. 704 University Ave. Rochester Bisexual Women's Net Rochester Lesbian and Gay Out and About Seniors Group. THURSDAY Dignity-Integrity Anniversary uork meeting and potluck supper, 6:30 Political Caucus. Every second Mon WEDNESDAY Various activities. Brita, 647-9141. Festival Mass. 5 pm. St. Luke/St. SATURDAY pm. Second Sunday. Location, info: day. 7 pm. Gay Alliance. 179 Atlantic SATURDAY SUNDAY 20 Simon Cyrene Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh 244-7159. Ave. 244-8640. St. Reception follows. lesbian parenting groups for current Empty Closet deadline. Camera- 29 Lesbian Parenting Group. First Gay Men's Cooking Group, 7:30 y^ and prospective mothers. Gay/Lesbian Al-Anon, First 9 ready ads. photographs. 244-9030. meeting. Gay Alliance lounge, 179 Yom Kippur. Nayim. Rochester's pm. Fourth Sunday. 244-8640. | 385-4496. Meetings ai GAGV. 179 Unitarian Church. 220 S. Winton Rd.. Provincetown Harbor Swim for Atlantic Ave. Every fourth Wednesday group fopr lesbian and gay Jews and U E S D A Y Atlantic Ave., begin Sept. 5. Every fourth 7 p.m. Life. AIDS benefit. Boatslip, 161 Com friends, will worship together and break Wednesday. (see ONGOING) For time call Men's Group meeting. Gay Alliance. mercial St.. Provincetown. Mass. •he Yom Kippur fast with a potluck din 244-8640 FRIDAY MONDAY 8 pm. First and third Sunday. Gay Alcohoiics Anonymous, First (508) 487-3684. ner at a private home. Call 442-3363. MCC Relationships Series. Part 244-8640 Unitarian Church. 220 S. Winton Rd., 21 24 Rochester Rangers social club, 7 pm. one the dating game. 7:30-9 pm. business meeting. 8 pm. Second Opt^n Arms MCC. 243 Rosedate. Out and About. Irondequoit lodge Empty Closet layout and paste up Gay Men''s Alcoholics Tuesday. Rochester Rams Bar Night. Every 271-8478, weekend Sept. 21-23. Call Bob. of October issue. 5-10 pm. 179 Anonymous, St. Luke's-St. Simon third Saturday. Bachelor Forum. 8 pm-2 Rochester Historical Bowling MONDAY 473-938^^ Atlantic Ave. 244-9030. Cyrene Church. 17 S. Fitzhugh St., THURSDAY Rochester Gay Men's Chorus. am. 271-6930. Society. Season opener 7:30 pm. Lambda Amateur Radio Dinner. Fall photography classes. Com 8:30 pm. 232-6720. Cavalry St. Andrews Church. 68 ( io'.t^r lanes, 27.50 Monroe Ave, 10 Dave. 3.^)9-3337. oi Irv. 671-4430. munity Darkroom, Genesee Co-op. 713 Ashland St. at 95 Averill Ave.. 7:30 pm Lesbian Writers Group. 4 pm. every 004-6461- Dignity-Integrity Social/Game Monroe Ave. 271-5920. Lesbian and Gay Youth of 235-2473. Presbyterians for Lesbian and Gay Jewish Family Service. Support Night. Refresfiments. games, bonfire. Rochester (LGYR). Group for people Concerns, Third Presbyterian Church, second Saturday. GAGV, 179 Aflanfic group for parents and friends of Jewish 16-21. meets Sundays 3-6 pm. GAGV, 4 Meigs St. (corner of East Ave.) 6:30 Ave. 3289758 Sexual Compulsives Anonymous. lesbians and gays. 7:30 pm. For Ioca 179 Atlantic Ave. 244-8640. pm. First Thursday. Affirmation, gay/lesbian Mormons. Rochester Gay Men's Chorus con For those desiring their own personal FRIDAY tion call Michelle Ruda al JFS. 544-0043. cert. 8 pm. SUNY Brockport. Free. sexual sobriety. For time and place call 461-0110. or Elaine Elkins. 244-4837 SATURDAY Featuring tht* Rochettes and Rochester TUESDAY Volleyball. 8 pm. Camp Eastman. 244-8640. EDGE (Educating the Disabled In Women's (Community Chorus. Also Wednesdays. a Gay Environment), Second and Saturday Night Socials. Gay Alliance 15 fourth Thursdays. For time ar>d place call Community Center. 179 Atlantic Ave. 8 Golden Links Late Summer Folk 25 Gay Alcoholics Anonymous. 8 pm. TUESDAY 381-0739. pm-midnight, September through May. Festival. Sept. 7-9. Markus Park near Action for a Better Community Cienesee Hospital. 224 Alexander St. Bowl-a-Thon. 1 -6 pm. Reynolds Emptv Closet layout and pasteup \-\onco\je Falls. Featuring Cathy Fink & 11 of Od issue. 510 pm. 179 Atlantic Aue. Marcv Marxer (of "The Names Song"). Lanes. 374 Thurston Rd. Raise money SATURDAY 244-9030. For tickets and information cail Primary Day. If you're a registered par for needs/ families at holiday season. Call Strong Memorial Hospital AIDS 54A 6SA4. OT 338-762A. iy member, gel out and vote'. 436-0522. 22 Center Community and client informa AHarmation General Conference. Rochester Rangers. General business Dining for Dollars V. "Paint the tional forum. 7-8:30 pm. Refreshments SAVE Sunciay Gav; and lesbian Mormons. Sept. 7-9, meeting. 8 pm, upstairs at Tara, 153 Town " Gala AIDS fundraiser sponsored GAGV Community Center pain to follow. Department of Psychiatry. The Scottsdale. Ariz. Call (602)396-6950. Liberty Pole Way. Visitors welcome. by Helping Peopte with AIDS, Inc. 10 ting project. Sept. 22 & 23. Noon-6 Room 1-9043. ''riends pm; Midtown Plaza. pm. 179 Atlantic Ave. 244-8246. ^fTin, October 7th ! ^ains present a special After Open Arms MCC's opening cliurcli '^'"^^n featu service and RLAC's Picnic, get in ttie spirit Ting: ROCHESTERS fbr Nationai Coming Out Week tto V «nano dignity-integrity rf) rochester RENAISSANCE «V* t'hiU join us at Nazaretli Arts Center «ad ^ps C)Q ASQUERADE R ALL 8:00 pm M TOO RFNFFIBENEFIT -L-^ AIDS ROCHESTER il^ ^icaw tickets: $15 a piece or $25 for two CONGRATULATIONS Benefactor prices are also available DIGNITY-INTEGRITY/ Don't miss ttiis one; ROCHESTER call 232-6825 to reserve CELERRATING 15 YEARS your tickets for the show Their art oonsists of taking aspects of IN OUR COMMUNITY their lifestyle and connecting with aN of us, gay or straight, to entertain as weH as elucidate." - Tower Records Pulse
FRIDAY SEPT 22 — Social/Game Night THE DATE TO CELEBRATE other Events Scheduled for National Coming Out Week: October 7-14,1990 SATURDAY SEPT 23 — Dinner Dance OCTOBER 27 SUNDAY SEPT 24 — Special Anniversary Play a part. Join this festive Opening the week, a midday Coming Out Seminar,PFLAG Uof R's GLBFA hosts a reception for Outdoor Church Service, Open Arms UR Interfiuth Chapel 7:30pm their Lambda Alunmi Liturgy. 5 pm, St Luke's- St. Simon Cyrene gatherifxg of the courtly MetropciKtan Community Chureh Church. 17 S. Fitzhugh St. costumed. Plan for it now RLAC Picnic location TBA 2-5pm and save the date. a nationally known leader in the no events currently planned Romanovsky lb Fhi1hp« and Leah le^an & gay community will speak Zicari Naziuvth Arts Center, 8pm in Lower Strong Auditorium, gUNAY Qetoh^ 14th All are welcome to attend! sponsored by UR GLBFA Closing candlelight church service Dignity / Integrity For Information please contact any 232-3580 GAGV "Explore a New World" 1^1 Officer or Can 328-9578. Fundraiser at Whispers 9pm to 2am National Coming Out Day !! 'fttfr^ifo^^Df,
I • •, »• I' N'< ."•" 12 The EMPTY CLOSET September 1990 September 1990 The EMPTY CLOSET IS Join now and get your first 10 matches for only $20! . CUTHERI •. — — — — -. — « — _«*«.•-. —•««. — «,«-.^««-.-.-* — — —« — — — — —— CUT HERE Looking Out a column on the visual arts « C 3 T3 3 S !S > O O C o o o to =dl I-I ill11 «< Film revieiv: The enigma of Sandra Bernhard 111 .c By Cynthia Van Ness race, but J'm not sure what it is, and why Wouldn't you know it. This is my firet film go-go dance clad only in a tiny sur-spangled and her movie, which she co-wrote, reflects this review has been so hard to write. Scenes ill CO review as the visual arts writer for the G-siring and pasties. If you ever wanted a it. In one scene, the singer in the orange of a mysterious African-American woman are Empty Closei, and I have to figure out this fun- f*^ ujvclosc and personal look at Bcmhard's halter dress does that slushy '70s hil. "Me cross-cut between Bernhard's nunibers. At EEEEI EE EE EE o> ny but highly weird movie fcamring thc biavest fi8««^ !"»« fast-forward to the end when this and Mrs. Jones (We Got a Thing Going On)," one point, we see Bernhard in bed with her « k a • •* ^6^ till lilt IE£l llUl III IEEE «« «« •«« o woman in comedy today, Sandra Bemhaid ^»ln» comes out on upe. and in case you're really dense, she tacks on Black lover, and I assumed it was a fantasy _!_!_!_!_! '^Without You, I'm Noching" is t>ascd on her Most fascinating about this woman is that at the end, "Sisters Are Doing It For 8888 S 88888 88888 888 gggg gg ggI 8g 8S 88 or memory sequence featuring this uniden 8 8 tJ smash, one-womaircomedy show on Broad she is distinctly un-pretty. Her eyes are large Themselves.*' She satirizes heterosexual tified woman, but my friends assured me i=! es: ssss sssss ss SSS '8 sss ss ss s s s s s s s and almost bug out a little, her nose is pto- _!_!_!_!_! f f $S 1 ss f sf t ss ss way, and was shown for a fewweek s at the Ut stereotypes such as the Cosmo Girl, in which that those were a man's buns. The movie is E I g^ II II d tle last month. minent, her mouth is wide, and her lips her character has the perfect San Francisco set in a nightclub with African-American «» ^ s 5 iiii iiii I:? am iiiii iii I iiii ii a ii ft Who else has the nerve to impersonate fleshy and somehow exaggerated. You can apartment, an exciting career as an executive back-up musicians and bored, resentful African-American women? Bernhard does not take your eyes off her. After a relentless secretary, and is dating the boss. "He drove African-American patrons. Eventually the 0-6 g Diana Ross in her Supremes days, a sultry diet of TV and movie women who are under us down Lombard Street, the crookedest mystery woman shows up in the audience. "S Era " Vja 33 a *70s lounge singer in a truc-to-period orange 40 (or mimicking it), W\SPy, thin, flawless street in the world. I never felt straighter." ^ ^ V % 3 ^ e o The last scenes in the film, after Bernhard's doubleknit halter dress, and others. She is ly made up, expensively dressed, and always, Another character laments the break-up with go-go dance, are of this woman writing an particularly funny in an outfit that resembles always *'feminine," Bernhard is welcome her boyfriend, singing Laura Nyro's "I Never obscenity about Bemhard on the table cloth a giant garlic clove wrapped in a datshiki. relief. Didn*t someone once say that com Meant to Hurt You," then lapses into an at .^ii ^ « 2 a 2 in lipstick and leaving the club. Even nervier, Bernhard appears at the end edy is not pretty? tack: "By the size of your dick, "I should've This is hard-edge, gutsy comedy, am wrapped in the American flag (take that, Bernhard is also remarkable for being been with a woman." biguous, but ultimately hilarious. It's worth SSSSS Jesse Helms) which she then drops, doing a -'yfiliil Hollywood's first open bisexual (my hero!) Bernhard is trying to say something about watching for on video.
3 « « « « 10 «• S S O 41 w O 0 O V O SS 9 9 9 9 9 ssss Illl 9 >S >S >N >« 3t.S S 5a i5«-«« I «15« t «15««iS««« f ««1S15 i5««i5 | O O O O o o o o o o c c c c ^ oooooppo — o o o o g CCC o o Film review: Friedrich's Damned If You Don't c c gggg CCC c c c c 3 c c c c c c = ss ss ^ SSS^SS ssssssss ssss & By Craig None f f $ f f f f f >I 2 Sfffffff 8 ssss cream cone, all the way through to the steamy voices recounting Catholic school ex the timclessness and the universality of thc if 9 f f $ f Filmmaker Su Friedrich made a stop at the N I ss conclusion, this film celebrates the many faces periences, childhood crushes on teacher, and human sexual experience. Friedrich suc i 3 ^h ^p ^h ^h n^ nj 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 s 9f 9$ 9f 9S 9 9 9 9 .^ 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 George Eastman House during her two-week and forms of sensuality. the mechanical repetition of swarms of HI Q u E E E E E E E E E E O E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E cessfully uncovers the similar beauties ofthe 55 tour to present her film Damned if You Don t Friedrich handles the subject matter with a prayers. These various points of view comple rituals surrounding both holiness and human at the Dryden Theater on June 17. delicate touch by stripping sensuality down to ment and intersect with the visual narrative, sexuality and suggests how comparable these GO a This short, avant-garde piece focuses on a its purest source—the fascination ofthe senses. sometimes conflicting with the unraveling of 2 ^ two realms really are. k C nun tormented by her attraction to another Q-— Sffai32 §S5 The film is consumed with "thc gaze"— the talc, and at other times meshing with the As a side note in defense of avant-garde films, 2%S woman. Friedrich's uniquely erotic vision suc observing the beauty of the human form and visual narrative in extraordinary ways. Hear for those who may have seen this one or any tl P A s i 9 e «• u) 8 8 uf cessfully conveys thc conflict between rhe ing and seeing arc sometimes at odds, often S'« CA 3 the sweet angst of voyeurism (for both the others and considered it a tedious jumble of m 9 I S nun's stolid piety and a world in which characters and the audience). in collaboration. nonsense images, it's helpful to remember that ed H ^ c slSi ifi^llll rhythms and textures present sexuality as a The narrative shifts between thc nun's and Piet>' and sensualit>' meet face to face toward even though they may not be entertaining or *« S) relentless and ubiquitous quality of human life. the woman's point of view, revealing how each the end when Friedrich inserts a voiceovcr pleasurable to watch, avant-garde films are 5 J a ai&e'.|'9 1 Iflll S u> uf S c/5 Friedrich's innovative eye is able to trace thc character eroticizes the other from a distance. reading the more explicit sections of /m- courageous and thought-provoking. That's m c g- S. c i i 8 J sensuality of objects as seemingly cold and dis WW ^f "f ^» *• *W W W 9 9 9 9 9 *^ 9 9 9 9 Neither the nun nor the woman she pursues modest Acts: The Life of a Lesbian Nun in why you have to respect them. Watching an Sill ?.?.?:f.f,f.t?. s tf.$.&t 9 9 9 9 tant as a dolphin slicing through waves and utters a word throughout the film, leaving the Renaissance Italy. Using history as a reference avant-garde film is like eating broccoli; it may EEEEEEEE even an amusement park ride. From thc mo viewer to rely on his or her own gaze as well. point, with obvious connections being drawn gO'-g M 8 not taste good, but you can take pleasure in 88888888 gggggggg 1 8888 ment the film begins with documentary Friedrich adds an additional layer of narrative between this book's narrative and the tale knowing how good it is for you. footage of a nun innocently licking an ice S oooooooo OOOOgOQO o o o o o S S o o SSSS at times, with the use of various unidentified Friedrich has set out to tell, the film celebrates •8 fffff?ff fiffffff f f f f f f f f f 2> I f f f f G CU 55 iff ifil? ^^^^g^^g l^^g^g^^^ ggg^ g^^^ ^^^^ Fabrics & Findings CUT HERE CUT HERE FREE ESTIMATES 24 HOUR SERVICE X III ^ ,' y /-. ^ ; A
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We rarely spend time together, (not necessarily rancorous) but thc dialogue That's old news to me, 1 suy at home. • No bi conference in thc Baghdad by thc When thc dentist attacks, I visualize myself needs to be honest, for that is thc coin of yet we talk on the phone daily, sometimes By Miheterosexuality We ner with whom chatter waxed as passion "But you are in a wheel chair, Blanche, but ed "gaggles," are held regularly in San Fran some not especially handsome, yet each uni waned, or simply the man who stood next shall *s, who's porked out. We talk, too, about the following day. Minority Affairs at the National AIDS Network workshop participants tried to talk about que regardless of whether, at the time, 1 you are*'* Best sisters dish hard. Before she Although Tm less thrilled with a pride day fighting petsonal and societal racism and other cisco; they're sponsored by "Mother Goose to you endless nights while you cruised an our mothers, our jobs, hair lines, waist lines hangs up Jane will remind mc of my im in Washington, D.C. He helped organize thc Productions" and the participants are affec believed him Mr. Right or Mr. Right-Now. and what to do with/to^ that man. l>om of thc official proclamation of a bunch National Coalition of Black Lesbians and Oays, topics, but we didn't get too far. indifferent bar icon. Provenience is not the maculate home, my travels far and wide, and tionately known as "goslings." Memories are a comfort, yet when push and issue. Recognition is. ot politicians than with a day commemoiating G^ Married Men and several other gn>ups and But the discussion in "Bisexual Women in shove have come to slump and sigh, mental Early in life 1 was adventuresome, Jane came add that I have scored enviable tricks in my a neal event such as Stonewall, thc peaceful part national demonstrations in the 1970s and '80s. Heterosexual Relationships,'* which was The gaggle's mles were outlined in the flier: snapshots don*t cut it, fail to console or re Overwhelming, misery-producing expec to chat later I have experience, she has day. I can only compliment her on her in- of me recognizes that not every cclefoiation has It's easier for white bisexuals, lesbians and described in the program in dry psychological- "no fucking " except with condom-covered juvenate me. Then I call Baby Jane. tations are assumed regularly by gay men wisdom. We give what we have Co the other. teliigence and tasce. Patience is part of the job. tc> emeige from violent confrontation with gay men co be ouc because they don't have to journal-abstract language, was quite in dildoes or gloved fingers; * *no unprotected oral With gentlemen friends of an evening or almost as masochistic bondage. We strive Once, desperate, I pushed too hard. She authority. When the otgantzeis stood on stage dt^l with racism, Jones said. Communities of teresting. "Fantasies of Pencttaiion: Bisexuali actioa" — condoms, dental dams and plastic earnestly to uphold ludicrous standards of We are Star-System kids (dinosaurs now) failed me by refusing to provide key data on a season, one may be sincere but seldom reared during the Big Studio era, and I, for and read thc proclamation, it was one of my pe<>ple of color provide their members with ty, Radical Feminism and Archetypal pmvided, or bring your own; "no poppers" real; behavior may in fact be performance image and style in that disco/bar arena where a man I wished to seduce. I would not proudest moments at the conference, so until vital suppMin in the daily struggle of living with Psychology" sounded like an intriguing ex and "no drunks" — beer in cans and wine in we joust for love. It's anificial and phoney. one, leamed to cope watching Lana's icy forgive her, cul her off cold. It broke her designed to form memory; yesterday's determination, Susan's defiance, Stanwyck's the Bisexual Revolution, I'll accept June 23 as discrimination fn>m the white world, and peo amination ofthe ideas of radical feminist An cups is allowed, but glass bottles aren't and thc escapade becomes tomorrow's souvenir The A safety valve mechanism is essential. heart and then I understood I mattered; she Bisexual Pride Day. ple of color considering coming out as gay or drea Dworkin and others, and included jour organizers encourage a drug-free atmosphere generally kicking in about the time one steel. There was more than escape in the needed me. passage of time sands smooth awkward dark on Saturday matinees: we leamed a way Some of the conference's more than 400 bi have to carefully weigh the risks of being nal writing, which I love, but seemed design ("we are each others* best high"); "no mde edges, refining poignancy. Yet for all the numbly mouths: "No one person can meet I cannot for the life of me get Jane out of participants took part in the planning of the rejected by their families and friends and los ed to appeal only co students of Carl Jung. At behavior" and "ask before touching." alt your needs." You continue to seek the to live. Anificial yes, but effective. In truth Rochester. She will not budge, turns to stone drama of muscles, sweat and endurance, pro those exemplars of independence, Bette new North American Bisexual Network, ing that community support. least half the workshop participants left at the I've read enticing descriptions of these par ximity, regardless of its components, never Dark Stranger, of course, no one forsakes at the county line while I fly off to New York which will include groups and individuals break to attend other presentations. "Building ties and had thought if 1 ever had the oppor that dream, but in the intervals, if you are Davis and Joan Crawford, were too severe City for Halloween in a flash. She doesn't Families in the communities may quietly ac equals intimacy. Intimacy in my experience for our youthful tastes. Time proved Bette from Canada, the United States and Mexico. cept their bisexual, gay and lesbian members, PubUc Relations and thc Media" contained a tunity to attend. I'd jump at the chance. I found rarely is aligned with rapture, ft took a while fortunate, you build family. even like the public market, too crowded, Ill write more ahout the fledgling organiza lot of helpful advice for dealing with the the flier funny and agreed with everything it Sisterhood is a refinement of basic gay and Joan survivors; that was the key: en too ethnic, and I go for those very reasons. Jones said. to figure that out. durance. We got the message. Their movie tion in future issues of the Empty Closet. **ln families of color, there may be an accep mainstream and the lesbian and gay media. said in principle — even the nontraditional Romance, as if I had to tell you, is a male friendships, and with a sister you can She reads about home repairs and can install This is the second movement conference • The best-attended workshops were grammar: ease up on the facade, get basic, be goofy. together was a paean to indomitable spirit; an air conditioner, re-wire lamps, while I tance of who you arc, but not necessarily an mystery. Lost in that fog, perplexed, a flat-out celebration of will-power, a vin Ive attended — the first was an East Coast acceptance of the phenomenon outside the "Bisexual and Lesbian Women: A Dialogue * "Mother Cioose Productions is a team of sometimes we settle for a chat with a Baby Jane used to be Regina. Once I was curse broken doorknobs, watch TV. regional gathering in Boston in 1989 — and and "Bi and Ciay Men: Issues and Resolutions," women and men of many orientations and Vera. Now I am Blanche Hudson and we are dication of singleness, and a hell of a good The phone allows us to connect without family," he said. "They accept you but you neighbor, and the chat may take form and time. I've found them to be inspiring and fim. It's can't talk about it." indicating the need ti> discuss issues and relieve backgrounds in the erotic play worlds of the che forgoccen, once famous, scarlets of lockstepping through life. (She's installed we discover a friend. Friendships happen Jane announced that when she turned 40 fantastic lo be with hundreds of other bisex It's also not uncommon, he said, for com tension between these gn>ups. My friend C>n- San Francisco Bay Area. We came together obliquely. Ic's whac's left after the ship has '*Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?" The two extensions for me, binhday gifts.) If 1 uals, discussing how to build our liberation thia and I were impressed by the need for a specifically to create supportive zones where shoes don'c pinch. We drifted into character she'd never shave, would wear lipstick all the call when my life signs are flat, no blip, she munity members to accept people who are sailed; how one comes to terms with time, munch cookies non-stop and beat lit movement. My political experience is limited, married and have extramarital relationships similar discussion between women locally, so lesbians, gays and bisexuals could meet to ex weekends on Monday morning. When we playing gradually because we are, I suppose, pumps me up. If she is on the edge of hut Tve worked with enough groups and the members of Rochester Bisexual Women's plore communicaticm skills, erotic etiquette inventive. Within this time-honored ritual of tle children with her cane. Past 40 she's hysteria, near to breaking windows, VH with people ofthe same sex. Jones, one of 10 chat we are polite or indifferent at first; then found a second wind, a "comeback," has movements to know that I feel most comfor children, grew up on the Caribbean island of Network and RtKhester Lesbian Action Coali and safer-sex practices. . . tittle tests appear, the resolution of which using women's names, we found access to soothe her I can call at two a.m.. and while uble with and most excited by the bisexual tion have started organizing a similar event, to "We believe everybody is entitled to an certain truths especially as laid out in this renewed vigor, and cruises with clarity of I've only done that once and then she didn't Antigua and in Florida, in a family in which define the bond. The tempo increases. Now purpose, but still collapses at dusk and clut movement. the males were expected to be sexually active be held here in October <)r November. equal and fair chance for a happy, healthy we are on a two-way street. Friendship has loopy movie. Like Blanche I am reclusive, tell me anything I couldn't have figured oul erotic life. We believe if a person accepts, loves, aloof, self-absorbed. Jane is sassy, energetic, ches the phone and gasps: "Oh Blanche the for myself, simply having someone there is \t seems lo be the movement least concern and the girls encouraged to remain virgins. He •"Bisexual Erotica" was the next-best- to do with availability; it may be the worid is full of one-eyed hump backs." ed with stifling political correctness, and one leamed early that men were expected to "fool attended workshop. Five writers and eroticises herself, he will be more likely easi outgrowth of no-holds barred exchanges determined. I peer out the window, she what it's all about. of the most concerned with including around on the side," sometimes with each publishers read fn)m their work, which includ ly to please others. Mother Cioose especially everyone — African-Americans, Asians and other, and that no one thought anything of the ed a description of activities at San Francisco's enjoys masturbation, fiveplay. inventive ap- other people of color; the monogamous, pro affairs as long as the men supported their first jack-and-jitl-off, a fairly conventional, pn>aches, personal attention to details, humor, miscuous, polyfidelitous (those who have families financially. humorous poem fr^jm the new ert)lic joumai tenderness and spunk . . . made a commiimcnt to more than one rc:\a- This helped him when he came out to his Libido, a woman's tale of her night out with "Thc Gaggles are good places to practice tionship) and those in alternative family situa family, he said. As a young man he became a male cniss-dressing lover; and a man*s fan asking others to play, aiKl answering 'Yes, sure!' tions; those who are in wheelchairs or have worried that he was attracted to and sexually tasies about water sports, women, men and or 'No. chank you.' The Gaggles are not good A\EET LOCAL OAY/BI A\EN FAST? different mobility problems, the deaf and hear- active with men as well as women, so he dildoes. The material ranged from quite dry places to assume you can just grab whatever ing impaired, the blind, and those who have discussed the subject with his father. and mechanical to very hot, but I presume you want. . ." other disabilities, obvious or invisible; those "I'm being sexually active with men and I there was something to satisfy everyone in thc But now, faced with the pnispect of actual into leather and S/M and more conventional enjoy it," Jones told him. rcK)m. And if we didn't like the literature, we ly participating, I found the idea made me ner ROCHESTER sexual practices; young and old; anarchist and "Well, what's the problem?" his father could always sneak a look at the leather pants vous. Sure, 1 wanted to be a safe-sex bi revolu I WANT YOU! conservative, HIV-positive and those with responded, and continued to reply that way a couple of the authors wore. tionary, but it meant I had to take off my AIDS; lesbian-identified, gay-identified and while his son struggled to explain his feelings. • I was one of six panelists in the workshop clothes (or wear "exotic/en)tic costume") and PHONE PERSONALS %^ heterosexually married. Finally Jones' father revealed that the close "Bisexual Ciroups Around the C^ountry," walk around in fn)nt ofa hunch of strangers e, mt. ^> This is not a mistake. Many ofthe organizers family friend Jones and his siblings had called facilitated by veteran Boston bisexual activist ^ in the bisexual movement worked for years in "rncle(ie<)rge" while they were growing up Robin Ochs (eight years is a long time in the might not want to turn me on. AT LAST, A PHONE PERSONALS the lesbian, gay, feminist and other movements was actually his lover. youthful bisexual movement). She had cre (cnissing four time zt)nes in a few days, spen ANP Bi MEN WHO LIVE IN mous debt JO the work others have done for Jones .said. He found out later that his mother issues of class, race, age, gender and other con ding 12 hours at the conference and outside t •" • «i their own liberation, and now we're doing our was aware ofthe relationship and accepted il. cerns of bisexual g.oups in cities around the trying to find my way around the unfamiliar THE ROCHESTER AREA!
own work and trying to avoid some of the When he asked her about the situation, "she llnited Stales, but some participants seemed Bay Area) won over the joys of group grt>pes, ^f T "'.(^ W mistakes earlier movements have made. said, 'Child, if you had 10 children and had to focus more on logistical concems than and I stayed home. I simply have a hard time -r- a husband as horn>' as your father was, you'd political (what kind of telephone hotline to set imagining myself in certain situations, and this rM<« QUICK CODC Some con- need all the help you could geiV I think my up, etc.). The discussion was interesting, but was one of them. All I could picture was "^^ir ^ • '^ the workshop was KH) short to explore some something like a junior high school prom, rORMSTANT mother was ahead of her lime." ACCESS TO I>espite the aitemative sexuality of members of the more difficult problems bisexual net where I would stand naked, watching ochers works deal with — avoiding having only in all sorts of interesting positions while I lean of his own family — he also had a lesbian sister ANEAAOSI highlights: — he had no queer role models as he was women doing the work in mixed-gender ed against a wall and waited for someone to *l learned more from the "Cultural and gn>wing up, Jones said. His image of lesbians groups, including members who aren't white ask me to dance. Ic was simply coo Historical Perspectives on Bisexuality'^ panel and bisexuals wcrc' 'white older men," and he and middle class, working with the local gay preposterous, so I returned to Nonh Berkeley discussion that opened the last day ofthe con was shocked when he saw Latinas and Black and lesbian communities. and fell asleep at 11 p.m. ference than fmm almost anything else I sat women the first time he visited a gay bar in through or participated in during that Florida. *l$len1o recorded "toMng" personal ods weekend. His first allegiance is to his community of Record your own doting personal Rebecca Kaplan, a young Jewish woman color, he told the ludieiKe. "That's my •private "voice maaboMes" bt you receive who said she identifies as a '*bi dyke** so peo livelihood, that's where my roots are, and my recorded messages on our sysiem from ottier ple won't be able to dismiss her loving women, bisexuality is just a part of me." guys. No need to give out your piione ulked about the conditional acceptance she I think this was the first time I ever really finds, in the strict religious conrununity in understood the seeming reluctance of people number in your ad unless you want to. -"m^- which she grew up, for her relationships with of color to come out ofthe closet and why the •fast, fun & private... new ods doily! women. Many people at thc religious college support of one*s community of origin could she attends seem to think it*s all right to sleep be much morc important than fitting into the TOUCH TONE PHONt NEEPtD HAVE with women as long as she marries a man. lesbian and gay community, which is not PAPER 6. PENCIL HANDY 7 O WRITE Kaplan said although the religious always so supportive of anyone who doesn't DOWN YOUR PR I VAT E VOICE ^^AILBOX homophobia is difficult to handle, her upbr conform to its norms. PASSCODE inging prepared her to live with prejudice: "I •The workshops were a mixed bag. As at was brought up to believe, 'You'll be any confererure, it was hard to tell from thc cap V^ discriminated against as a JewV sule descriptions in the program whether a 4^ .95/MINUTE .Adrian Bermudes, a Nicaraguan who is a workshop would be fascinating, overly member of the San Francisco Human Rights academic and theoretical, chock full of prac Commission and the first Cencral American tical advice or deadly dull. The workshops elected to a political position in the city, were grouped in "tracks" — AIDS, androgyny discussed che inability of the Catholic religion and gender, coming out. feminist, people of lo accept homosexusility and bisexuality, and color, writing and publishing (it was quite a the need for all sexual minorities, and par literary bunch), political, relationships, sex ticularly gay and hi Latinos, to come out ofthe uality, spirituality and therapy — which made closet. Brenda Blasingame, an African- it easy Co choose one fn>m each category if you Several huodbned bisexinis American Jew who works in movements to were looking for variety. ^valked In die San Francisco LesMan 1-900-LOVE-MEN eliminate racism, sexism, anti-semitism and and Gay Ffecdom Day d>e day after die coofenenoe; Hie condgent I tried Co attend a range of workshops rather had a motorized cable women and child battering, talked about the Chan sticking co che political track as I usually for diose wfao couldn't walk. Phoso by Micfaele Moote Thc EMPTY CLOSET September 1990 September 1990 The EMPTY CLOSET 19
may be contracted by a woman through shar the hatred spewed by these so-called *'anists" associated with AIDS carc and treatmem we phasis on early intervention for all aspects of Inifectious Diseases went to Atlanta July 25 at Buiakoff said. '*In the test tube, anyway, thc ing contaminated "works " or needles or sec in the larger cities. HIV and AIDS. 244-9000. was directed at any other minority, companies Alonso's invitation to review his discovery. CPF molecules look very intcrcstinR.** having sex with an infected partner This is IWo significant fundraising special events Finger Lakes Health Systettts Agency pio- like Wamer Bros. Records and MCA wouldn't A NIAID spokesperson said that the repon Thc synthetic molecule, Burakoff said, d rhumbs up, thumbs down^ no small problem. AIDS has become the arc coming up quickly. First, Helping Peo vidcs medical literature and ncw9ps4>er clip hesiute to pull thc plug. would be completed by thc last week in prevented thc virus frmn spreading frotn the By Joe Carroll sailors, statistics on the estimated numoer of number one cause of death in Black women ple with AIDS presents "Dining for Dollars pings as well as demographic and statistical August, and a statement would be released im infected cells to thc healthy cells. Thutntis Up, . . Thumbs Down is a cotrunen- gay men and lesbians in the miliiary, and thc sp In late July, TV Guide reported cartoonist of child-bearing agic in thc states of New Tfork V: Paint thc Town" on Sept. 15, at Midtown data fL>r use in developing health care services. mediately afterward. Alonso said that a rcport He said also that CPF is "very iiKxpcnsive tary on the tnedia, itielutlitig its tepiesentations number of those excltided because of their sex ^latt Grocning's disgust after learning that so and New Jersey. For many women at risk of Plaza. If you are interested in hosting a din 461-3520. infection, refusing a sexual relationship with on his fitidings witl be published soon in the and very simple to synthesize." of gays and lesbians. The opinions expressed ual orientation. In the background And>- meone had printed an unflattering T-shirt ner, call Alex Rosenberg, dirmer chairman, Greater Rochester AIDS Interfaith Network a potentially infected partner may also mean joumai Molecular Oncology atui TUmor Tests ofthe molecule in laboratory animals ate solely those ofits author. Somerville sang "Tell Me Why." Joe is also in- featuring Bart from Fox's hit TV show The at 288-6067. If you need general informa (GRAIN) provides lay and professional carc giving up money for housing or food, as Pharmacotherapy are just begiiuiing, and there are "many ^tervicwed in a recent issue ofDaka m^^^azinc. Simpsons. The uncopyrighted T-shirt which tion or can volunteer time, talent, or ser through healing and memorial services; train stated by Judith Cohen, Univetsity of Califor The patient who died received treatment hurdles'' to go over before thc compouiKl can 9 Local gay publications in New York City are CB On network TV they do things a little dif- was being sold at a Florida shop had Ban label vices, call this year's Chairman Bob Sperr at ing of friendly visitors for visiting homes, nia at San Francisco. Many of these issues from Alonso in Mexico City this summer, after be tested in human patients, according to awful. First there's The New York Native, a tierently. Howard Rosenberg of thelosAr^gc/cs ed as an "AIDS Activist" depicted with his 232-3395. hospitals, hospices and prisons; information will be thc focus of this year's World AIDS Alonso relocated there following professional researchers. trashy tabloid that no one really takes seriously. Titnes reports that ABC has decided not to re trademark slingshot saying "Back off. Fag!" AIDS RcKhester will host The Masquerade about pastoral resources and advocacy on Day. disagreements with his paniMT, Dr WiUiam -Associated Press Then there's thc new kid on the block, run the thirtysottieihing episode that featured After complaints from local activists, it was Ball to benefit AIDS Rochester, Inc., on Oct. behalf of people affected by AIDS. Logan, relating to post-hyperthermia treat Outwtrek, a magazine started by former two gay men in bed together and tost the net pulled from thc shelves, and thc shopowner In five major cities, the Center for Disease 27, at Ham> East Theatre, 155 Chestnut St. Monroe Community College maintains an ment for AIDS patients. Thc disagreement was fncmbers , 1000 E. Henrietta Rd. 424-5200. magazine's style is offensive and hetcrophobic Hospital, wherc Alonso and Logan worked, Black women in New York and New Jersey, and to the show's executive producers Edward Guide, "i guess ugly bigotry and copyright epidemic, recorded success rates as high as ing, dessens, coffee, and apple cider A cash Strong Memorial Hospital provides a com (yes, i did say HETEROphobic). It starts with was receiving from hospital regulators on mat will probably be thc fifth leading cause of Zwick and Marshall Hcrshoviiz. "I told them theft go hand in hand." 47 percent in encouraging users to cither bar will be available. The place to be seen plete range of HIV medical care, including ac thc constant use of the word * 'queer'' in place ters unrelated to the AIDS research. death among all women of childbearing a^e that if they feh it was important to run this HELPt!!!!!! quit their habit or stop sharing drug this night will be the Harro East Theatre. For cess to experimenul treatment protocols, and ofthe word "gay." I'm personally offended by Dr. Alonso, in a Mexico City interview with in the United States by next year, according to episode, they would have my full sup I need help writing this column. You can paraphematia, as well as practicing safer sex more information or tickets, call Jeff Kost at HIV testing. Also provides psychiatric support lesbians and gay men who use words like Cable News Network, said that the death of thc Joumai of the American Medical port . . .They came back to me and said they help me by being my eyes and cars. If you see or stopping sexual activity. AIDS RtKhester, 232-3395 Tickets will be and counseling, and training of health cate "fag," ''dyke," and "queer." It's as self- his third hyperthermia patient was not surpris Association. 'i*d not find it important enough to fight for." something that you'd like to see mentioned, On the intemationai front, news from In available at area outlets in mid-September. professionals. Infectious Disease Clinic, degrading as a black person using the word ing, since he had been near death upon his ar This means that many of the thousands of clip it, and mail it to: Thumbs Up. . .Thumbs dia says that thc threat of AIDS is growing Tickets may be charged and sent by calling 275-0526. Department of Psychiatry, *' nigger*' If we' re going to teach otheis to stop 9 In last month's column I told you about rival. "What concems me is that people are children carried by infected women will also Down, c/o The Empty Closet, 179 Atlantic out of a lack of public awareness about thc AIDS Rochester 275-6741. AIDS Training Project, 275-5693. using these derogatory terms, we have to stop c<)mmcnts that Austrdian Grand Slam winner expecting miracles. We're not offering be HIV positive. Ave., Rochester, NY 14607-1255. Or, if you hear dangers of sexual promiscuity and con Mending Hearts^ AIDS bereavement suppon using them ourselves. Then there's the Margaret Court made about teruiis star Martina miracles," he said. Among women from ages 15 to 44, AIDS something on the radio or see something on taminated blood products. In India, where group. Meets Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m., at Our magazine's obvious fear of hetenisexuals, Navratilova. In recent interviews Court, who -Associated Press; The News, Atlanta deaths rose from 18 in 1980 to 1,430 in 1988, TV, give the EC a call at 244-9030. Be sure to AIDS is primarily a heterosexual disease, it Lady of Victory Church, 210 Pleasant St. epitomized on a recent cover by the words,'' I is a bom-again Christian, said that Martina is the most recent year for which national give mc all the infonnation you can so that it is prostitutes and people receiving blood 671-37-^7 or 248-3780. Hate Straights." It's the title of a leaflet a bad role model for young tennis players AIDS directory statistics are available. Thc death rate quadrupl can be verified and, if possibic, a number products from men and women who sell Potluck dinner and drop-in social for peo CPF molecule distributed by New York City's newest direct- because she is a lesbian. As reported by Reuters ed between 1985 and 1988, researchers said. where you can be reached. their blood to hospitals for money who arc ple with AIDS and ARC, HIV-positive people Researchers have developed a synthetic pro action group. Queer Nation, and includes the news service, Chris Evert spoke in defense of AIDS killed 40.7 per 100,000 of Black at highest risk. and their friends, lovers and supponers. Every tein molecule that will attach itself tightly to words' 'Queers Read This.'' Queer Nation likes Martina at the $500,000 Players Challenge Free testing for HIV exposure is available women in that age group in New Jersey, and Down under, the Australians have third Thursday. 7 to 9 p.m.. at Christ Church, the AIDS virus in a test tube, and prevent the to use confrontational, rub-their-nose-in-it tac Championships. Clearly angered by Coun's from New York State: call 1-800-541-AIDS 295 per 100.000 in New York in 1987, the developed a new twist: the state health 141 East Ave. virus from spreading to uninfected cells. tics, such as filling a straight bar with face- comments. Even said, "One of the things (1-800-541-2437). Other organizations which most recent year in which regional statistics department in Perth is paying HIV-infected In a study published in the July 20 issue of sucking same-sex couples. The article about about being a Christian is you don't judge peo AIDS update pnnidc AIDS-related ser\'ices are as follows: were available, said Susan Y. Chu, lead author male and female prostitutes not to have sex Science, the researchetTs say that the molecule, the leaflet includes comments from people ple.' ' Even, who is a good friend and old rival AIDS R' effectively prevents the AIDS did on the coun, not in her private life." The states that advocates for persons with AIDS discriminaticm. and other services, including heat treatment which supposedly eliminated well as accidents," Chu said. tion, and the like. They highlight the "giant are expressing concern that the public is virus fn>m binding, and this inhibits the spread ^S If you want to see something really different, Demi>crat & Chronicle also has reported that financial assistance and a public education signs of the AIDS virus in a Georgia patient, Three-quarters of women with HIV infec steps" being taken in the midst ofthe AIDS growing weary of hearing about the disease, of the virus," said Steven J. Burakoff of the ^atch Bl fZZ on MTV (cable channel 22) Sun Judy Nelson, whom the paper describes as speaker bureau. 232-3580 (V/TTY) or but which was involved in the death of an New tions get them from using intravenous drugs crisis. and that a sense of alarm has given way to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, an affiliate of day nights at 9. The show covers a different "Navratilova's companion," was seen at a re 232-4^30 (V/TTY). York man in early August who had gt>nc to or having sex with IV drug users, Chu said. However, it is often the "tiny baby steps" a resigned acceptance, making it harder to Harvard University. subject every week with a unique, avant-guard cent tennis match wearing a pink button that Helping People with AIDS, Inc. raises mone>' Mexico for the therapy. Since it typically takes 10 years after injection which also warrant recognition. This month, raise badly needed funds. Jim Walker, an ad Burakoff said his group found CPF while style that you would expect fn)m MTV. On July read "Manina is my role model." tt) fund agencies to meet the needs of the H>-perthermia involves removing a patient's for AIDS to develop, current statistics repre a pile of current news clippings brings the ministrator at the Whitman Walker CUnic in researching the chemistry of how the HIV is 22 the subject was censorship, and the .show •B The record industry is being wishy-washy AIDS/HIV-positive population. 987-1853. blood, heating it to 112 degrees Fahrenheit, sent infections from years ago. latest information on such topics as women Washington, D.C. said, "Wc are now com able to attach itself to T-lymphocytes. blood included an interview with Joe Steffan, who win dealing with anti-gay messages promoted day Alliance of the Genesee Valley peer cooling the bld to 108 degrees, and then In 1989, there were 2,825 new cases of AIDS and AIDS, prostitutes and AIDS, intravenous peting for the private charity dollar without cells that are part of the immune system and was kicked out of the Naval Academy for be by rap and heavy metal groups. As reponed in facilitators can provide referrals to physicians putting it back in a continous pnKess. all under among women of reproductive age, the resear drug use, AIDS public awareness in India, the sense of novelty, that we had for some a principal target of the AIDS virus. ing gay. Joe was here in Rochester recently as the Aug. 5 edition of the Los Angeles Times, and service agencies. Person on duty Sun general anesthesia. There is considerable risk chers said. If current trends continue, AIDS can and private funding for AIDS. time. I do not want to compete with crippl When HIV attacks T cells, it attaches a gpl20 a featured speaker at the open house dedica record producers are reluctant to put curbs on day/Friday 6:30-9:30 p.m. Message machine of sh(Kk and damage to internal oigans. in be expected to become one of the five leading "Women and AIDS" is the focus for this ed children and elderly people with Parkin surface molecule to a molecule called CD4 on tion of the new Ciay Alliance Community anists such as rap group Audio 2, heavy metal other times. 24-4-864(). cluding the brain, from any blood heating. causes of death among women of childbear year's World AIDS Day, Dec. I. Programs son's disease, but that's the new reality." theoutside wallofaTcell. In effect. thegpl2() Center and the annual picnic. Interspersed band (iuns and Roses, and comedian Sam A IDS (AHyrdination Pnyfect of MonnM.' Dr Kenneth Alonso of Atlanta, who devis ing age by 1991. according to researchers. designed to help women avoid AIDS must Hopefully,. Rochester can learn from the acts as a key to open a ItKk on the surface of thn>ugh<>ut the interview were shors of topless Kinison. calling such actions "censorship." If Coumy, run thn)ugh Monroe C^ounty Depart ed the treatment, claimed in June that it Dr. Howard Minkoff. pn)fessor of obstetrics also addre.ss more immediate problem.s. HIV the T cell, and the virus then moves inside. burn-out and r- man with Kaposi's sarcoma ihe treatment is York HeaUU Science Center in RTt.v.>k\yn. f AU- mation. education and training, and maintains also used for other forms of cancer. (See the periments. CPF was found to stick so firmly to gpl2() that it could ni>t be washed off. and ed the findings "overwhelming, worrisome a resource library. Sue Crowell. 2"^4-6ll4 July i.ssue of the Empty Closet.) and troubling." (V/TTY) A .second hyperthermia patient, a C^hicago the gpl2() 'kev' was no Umger able to fit in the I cell "lock Even more tn)ubling. he said, is the reaction Community Health Network.Inc. (CHN). man. has shown no improvement since treat of white, middle-class Americans: "'It's still 758 South Ave. HIV testing; medical, ex ment earlier this summer The a-searchers then exposed an AIDS virus hound with CPF to healthy T cells, and the not us."' perimental and pentamidine treatments; John Details of Alonso's findings have not yet \ inis. which would normally have attacked the The death rate for Black women—10.3 per Washburn Library; support groups; sTOLLS MAV APPLY YOU MUST BE 18 YEARS OLD ^ CLIENTS. SEE DONT GET AIDS TONY GREENE GET MEDICAL CARE AT THE FORUM OR CALL Community Health Network Inc. 758 South Ave. at Caroline St. 244-3381 (716) 244-9000 <2x;p<;?<;?<;?<;?<;?cpcp<;?<;^^ a not-for-profit health care faciUty 20 The EMPTY CLOSET September 1990 September 1990 The EMPTY CLOSET 21
We took an informal poll and found all 244-8640 and leave a message for Jeff Lehigh, Dignity-Integrity sorts of opinions. Some people thought of LRC jr write to Gay Writes, carc of the GAGV, 179 parents or children. Some people thought of The Lesbian Resource Center, an oiganiza Mlantic Ave., Rochester N.Y. 14607-1255 Cmr Groups Dignity-Integrity's social event of September work. is our anniversary, celebrating 15 years of tion that provides opportunities for lesbians Everyone has a relationship in some to socialize, leam. and compare notes, will weekly fellowship. The festivities commence aspects of their lives. Relationships are not For further information on upcoming on Friday, Sept. 21 with a Social/Game Night begin its fall sesstons with a change in ten's chorus wiches. It should be a fun evening, we hope always easy. . .thc> take time and energy. In scheduling. The group will now meet on the events, ticket information, or ifyou would like consisting of refreshments, games, and a bon our community there arc few visible role RLAC to see you there. Leshian fourth or last Wednesday of the month, at By Deborah ^l^chspress to volunteer your talents with publicity, fire. On Saturday, Sept. 22 the anniversary models for us. It can be tough to find a time finances, business, etc. contact 436-2034. In Oaober we arc working out the details dinner-dance will be held at a popular the new Gay Alliance building, 179 Atlantic Following our usual July hiatus, the or place to talk about these things. Recent adoption of the Rochester Lesbian for another Bar Nite at another fine establish writers' gix>up downtown resuurant. Cocktails begin at Ave. VC^uch thc Hn^pty Closer calendar for cadi Rochester V(bmcn*s Community Chorus We think it's time these topics came out Aaion Coalition constitution and August elec ment in the city Then in November we'll be 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7:30 p.m., and dancing month's date. (RWCC) is off to a very exciting start this By Mary Kaye Kccnciian of thc closet. Starting Sept. 5, Open Arms tions mark the beginning of the new year for serving our annual Thanksgiving Dinner at 40 from 9 to midnight. Tickets are required; The September meeting will begin at 7:30 autumn seascm. C>n Aug. 25, RWCC pn>vided Rochester Metropolttan Community Church is offering RLAC. If you have been a member of RLAC or Unicm to benefit the Garson Meyer Senior There's something about September that please call 328-9758 for reservations. On Sun on Sept. 26, with a short business meeting the music for an elaborate local lesbian a discusston series on these and other rela wish to be, this is the time to join. Rangers Center brings feelings of change, of bt^rmings. Maybe day, Sept. 23 the festival Mass will be celebrated and getting-acquanted session, followed by wedding. it's thc brisk winds twirling everything tionship topics. We're kicking off the fail a discussion on "Comming Out" led by A SIO membership fee insures you a mon By Michael G. Winton Start putting aside a few extra dollars now, at "5 p.m. "at "St. Lukc-St. Simon (Cyrene) season with "The Dating Game". . .do we thly newsletter updating you on RLAC projects Ken Saltzman, thc new general manager of for in December we want you to join us at around. Maybe it's the colored leaves and Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St., with a reception Susan Pryntz. Light refreshments will be the Rochester Gay Men's Chonis, has gracious We're backf The entire membership of the bright blue sky, filled with white fluffy clouds. date, should we date, how do we go about served. and other happenings in the Rochester area, Rochester Rangers hopes everyone had a great Arena's Party House for our famous Rtxrhestcr following in the Social Hall. it, and others. Join us from 7:30-9 p.m. at discounts on RLAC events, and full participa ly invited RWCC to join with them in perfor Rangers Christmas Pany—includes four hour Maybe it's the memory of all those yeat^ I All lesbians, and especially those who are ming a ccmcert on Sept. 21 at the Tower Fine summer Some of our members went to Las returned to school. Dignity-Integrity's annual garage/yard sale 243 Rosedale Street and share in the discus tion in the organization until Septeniber 1991. open bar, a fabulous meal, entertaitiment with this sunimer was our most successful fun new to the community, are invited to join Arts Building on the SUNY Brockpon campus. Vegas and San Francisco, others enjoyed an The Lesbian Writers arc changing, too. We sion. For information, call 271-8487. us at the Lesbian Resource Center For more Your membership is important to sustaining aftemcxm at their family reunions, and we all dancing and a lot of surprises. The cost this draiser. Wc sincerely appreciate those of you RLAC and contributing to its impact in the The concert begins at 8 p.m. and is free and year will be about 135 per person. will now be meeting at the new GAGV information, contact Anne Sealc, 671-3294. open to the public. know what fun that can be. who stopped by, chatted with us, and sup community. Well, that's what we've got planned for the building, 179 Atlantic Ave., on the third Satur ported us by your purciiases. For the fourth consecutive year, we will help Now to let all ofour folkiwers new and old day of cfach month at 4 p.m. W? invite all les Congratulations to Amanda, RLAC's new know that summer is over and we are back to next four months. We hope you can join us at On a pleasant Aug. 16 evening many of our Lambda Radio Club ^y Writes chairperson; Diane, RLAC's new secretary; and Calvary St. Andrews Church, Averill Ave., pre one ofour events. Wc welcome all newcomers, bian writers, writers-to-be, and enthusiastic Dennis Peterson and Jeff Lehigh, two sent their annual fundraiser The theme of this work planning many fun afternoons and even supporters to join us. The September meeting members enjoyed a night out at Silver Stadium. Sue, RLAC's new treasurer Thank you to all ings for your enjoyment. On Sept. 22 we will just show up and see what kind of fiin we have. Everyone is welcome to any of D-I's func The Rochester Lambda Amateur Radio Club members of Gay Writes, the men's writing past officers and those who filled in tempoiari- year's event is "Future Visions—People Work If you need more information about thc will focus on discussion and writings about meets monthly for a Sunday brunch and in group, will present a poetry reading at Wild ing Together'' RWCC will present a set of songs be at Tara Cocktail Lounge, patio, and parking relationships. Bring your joumai entries, tions. Dignity-Integrity is an ecumenical ly when needed. lot, 15.-^ Liberty Pt>lc Way, with something new. Rangers and what dates we are doing events, religious, educational and social otganization formal meeting. CaU Dave, 359-3337. Seeds Bookstore and Cafe. 704 University Ave.. A group effectiveness workshop, aimed at based t>n this theme. We will also have the call our hotline at 251-2122, any time, 24 hours poems, shon stories, and opinions to share The Lambda Amateur Radio Club is an in on Sept. 22, at 8:30 p.m. hcmtir of premiering a piece about AIDS com We arc having a Carnival and Bar Nite. There with the group. An open reading will follow. existing primarily to witness to the reality of strengthening each ofus as individuals work will be games, with a prize booth, and we'll a day. Until next time, remember when you a gay and Christian lifestyle. ternational organization of gay and lesbian Gay Writes is the men's writing group that ing within our community, is planned for the posed by Ttacy Moet and are feeling writer's block, come and terested in this, or in becotning a member, call word 'relationships?" According to VWsbster, a common interest in amateur radio, and an ioin the revolution—join Gay Writes. If you 256-1202. We look forward to seeing you at B-O-O-K-S 1 relationship is thc "state ofbeing related or outreach program to help people obtain their Mhould like more information about Gay our next meeting, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m., at the RICK ROSS interrelated." amateur radio license. Writes, or about the poetry reading, call f.AGX' 179 Atlantic Ave. Real Estate Next Meeting: Mon. SeptlO/ 7:30 p.m. Consultant Lesbian and Gay Youth of Rochester ^ of the C*y AUisBe* of lh« C«JMM« ViQey
• Mortgages Ifyou are 16 to 21 and want to meet gajr, labian and bisexual people fvur own age in a casual and aupportive environment. WELL • First time home come sec what vc're all about... Michele Tbfany buyers MEETINGS: VIDEO A Group for Jeu)i$h Gays Ed.D. N.C.C. CENTER 3-6 PM Sundays and Lesbians • Condos & single at the Gay Alliance Group Room 442-2986 families Corner of Atlantic and Elton RENTALS (Near University) Lesbian & Gay Coinmitted to Equality, nRLJiin Offers: Individual • Couple Conunittmd to Youl OF ROCHESTER Therapists offer NOTHNAGLE Family * Group Counseling individua], couple & Join with us for 633 Monroe Ave. Rochester Lesbian & Gay to persons Uving a gay^ group counseling in a (1 block west of Oxford) the High Holidays lesbian or bisexual lifestyle REALTORS Political Caucus discreet setting. 381-4770 • 2J5-8693 Support 473-8110 nonpartisan • educational For more information: lobbying/ securing our rights Beth Bloom 442-3363 our promoting political awareness ADJUSTABLE FEES Barbara Debes, M.S., C.A.S. • legislative watchdog • or write: 458-0533 Horace Lethbridge, M.A. Advertisers! In Loving Memory P.O. Box 18053 a committee of Rochester, N.Y. 14618-0053 the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley of ^ J \inf\\A—W TIMOTHY SCHAPP, M.S. ED., NCC Liarry Finlayson Is drinking ^O:. Nationally Certified Counselor offers Miller, csw individual, couples a problem and group counseling anrfiJtipport. Counseling & Psychotherapy 325-4090 Medical Arts Building » 277 JMexander St. in your life? AA can help. -«# w / learned more ahout absolute unconditional Southview Commons, 100 White Spruce Blvd Call 232-6720, 24 hours a day. love, life and death from you than I could ever Rochester, NY 14623 Or come to Gay AA (716)475-1120 at St. Luke's Church on Thursdays at 8:30 pm. Downtown have imagined. You often wondered what a dy We are a United ing person could offer me. Look at my heart and Sign language Interpreted, More Light Presbyterian last meeting of the month. ^ngKgation Church A GARAGE see /zow full it is. 11 am Sunday THE GAY SOURCE For gay women only: Mondays at 8:30 pm. ALL 121 North Love Gay Alliance Peer Facilitators can help you by providing: WELCOME! Fitzhugh St. • Information on Gay Alliance Events and For gay men only: 325-4000 Richard and Tokie Sundays at 8:30 pm TTY Activities 423-1559 Gay Al-Anon n Banafll the GAGV BUILDING FUND • Group Information Saturdays at 7 pm • Referrals to Area Professionals Unitarian Church SAT & SUN SEPT 8-9 "Though I speak v^>ith the tongues of men and of • TVavel Information angels, and have not loved, and become as a soun • Or Just Someone to Listen 10 am to 3 pm ding brass or a tinkling cymbal, though I have the JOHN MITCHELL, Ph.D. Outside the Bachelor Forum gift ofprophec y and all knowledge, and have not Call 244-8640 V/TTY Licensed clinical psychologist 670 University Ave loved, lam nothing. And though I bestow all my Sensitive, confidential treatments (inside if it rains) goods to feed the poor, and have not loved, it pro tailored to the individual fit me nothing. Love is patient. Love is not jealous EVENING HOURS: Sun.-Thurs. 6 p.m, - 9:30 p.m. House calls available You may bring contributions for the sale or boastful. Love never ends." Fri. 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. to the Forum anytime before Sept 8. Days: 475-2261 Evenings: 328-5161 Fnr Information Cail 482-1145. — Corinthians 13:1-8 22 The EMPTY CLOSET September 1990 I • I I CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING September 1990 The EMPTY CLOSET 23 Black prisoner, search to establish a true, Classified ads cost 55 for the Hrst M) Reporters for the Fmpty Closet. Must be honest rclationship with that special so words and SI for each additional 10 words. able to cover news stories, do interviews, Items for Saie meone. Size or shape don't make a dif Send check or money order and ad. tvfyed write in Associated Press style. Call Pop-up camper, S600; '"^9 Olds, needs ference. I'm just lonely and need someone or written legibly to: H.c. Press, 179 Atlan 2-44-9030. motor, $200; 87 Ficro GT, $8000 or take in my life. Age 25, my birthday is Feb. 2, tic Ave., R(H:hester NY I460^-U$5. Ads will 1965. Brown eyes, 178-180 lbs., 6 1". 2*-V-P'j--^''--•• • -c-:.:-„•..-•..•• ~ •>" <•• - ••-••• •;•--• -.-. Rubber stainps—Reasonable prices, over payments; large upright freezer; floor not he accepted over the telephone. model sewing machine; kerosene heaters; Lawrence Collier. 190-268, PO Box 45699, The Empty <:iosct will not accept custom, novelty, or address. LSASE gets catalog. Home business opportunities reel to ree! tape player; wood furnace and Lucasvillc OH 45699-0001 classified ads hy mail unless they are accom more. Call David at 235-6444. panied hy a name and telephone numher package—send $2 to cover costs. DYADIC Young, educated ft lonely, reaching out The number will not be published, but we MERCHANDISINCi. 127 Lincoln St., Wayland Extensive collection of **Playgirl** to touch that special someone. 26, 5*11", 156 will call to confirm the ad placement NY 14572-1415. magazines. All centerfolds intact 1973 lbs., red hair, blue eyes, clean shaven & ffiB3(SSc--'A •-•"'•".'-'- ^ ~ "••• '" •"' •• -'V'-. '.-;•- through 1990, Many years complete, ex boyishly handsome. Willie Sampson We accept petsonal ads. but the advertiser Women \(^uited! To sing with thc Rochester Sir S^?."-^'^K.>.;:-;-.j.^v -r ••-• V; must use his or her own box number or ad Women's Community Chorus. No audi cellent condition. Also '^Discover" #211550, PO Box 120, Lebanon OH 45036. dress We publish personal ads frt)m tions necessary! Rehearsals to resume Sept. magazine. Write "Roy", PO Box 314, Pen- 32-year-old male, interested in anyone prisoners on a space-available basis. Ifyou 5. 1-3IS-4H3-9930 (not a toll call). field NY 14526. who would want to correspond for friend have a pntblem with a pen pal, let us know GAGV Building Renovation Project ship. If you have the lime to write, and you The Empty c:ioset cannot be held resfHmsi- Help Waated needs you! Skills needed! Carpenters, enjoy writing letters, I would love to hear ble for any financial loss or physical in/ury masons, drywall expert, plumber, electri from you. Al Jackson, 192-102, PO Box that may result fn^m any correspimdence. Radio Netvirork Coordinator/Board 45699, LucasviUe OH 45699-001 cian, general contractor, window contractor Operator for prominent full-service AM Announcements If you can help, call 244-8246. radio station in Rochester. Duties include Seeking to establish a warm, honest and SUNDAY NIGHTS operating a bn>adcast studio board and com sincere friendship. I'm lonely, young and Call for Entries: **SiGHT UNSEEN," a HIV supportive therapy group. For all mercial production. Communica educated. Please someone write! Timothy F. Boyz Will Be Giriz pliotograpliic exhibition persons with HIV. Decrease anxiety, depres tions/Broadcasting college degree desirable. Williams, #182786, PO Box 45699, Thc Community Darkroom, a non-pn)fii sion, and isolation. Strong Memorial Rochester's Finest Female Impersonators Broadcast experience preferred. Send LucasviUe OH 45699-0001. organization which offers affordable Hospiul, HIV Clinic in Psychiatry. 275-3379. Doors Open 10 p.m. Show Starts 11 p.m. resume to Jeff Howlett, station manager, photography classes and gallery space to the Reaching out to that special someone. Window Project is looking for volunteer WHAM Radio, 207 Midtown Plaza, PO Box public, is planning a group exhibition from I'm 26 years old, 5'9", 155 lbs,, red hair, blue dtK'ents to lead guided walking tours of new 40400, Rochester NY 14604. TUESDAYS April 12 to May 22, 1990. entitled. 'Sight project installations during the noon hour eyes, boyishly handsome and very lonely. Unseen." Photographic artists interested in on occasional Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Advertising director for TTie Weekly News, Darrel Lee Henderson 132261, PO Box 2 for 1 Cocktails $1.50 Buds participating should mail a letter or postcard Thursdays, and possibly some early evenings Florida's gay and lesbian newspaper. Super 45699, Lucasvillc OH 45699-0001. $1.00 Cover to the Darkroom explaining in two t)r three or weekends in September, October and ear vision of sales staff, calling on house ac Lonely unpretentious prisoner, 43 years sentences what motivates them to make ly November. Five-hour training program counts, developing ad base, paperwork. Low old, looking for someone to write. Race and photographs. Also included should be your WEDNESDAYS begins sessions on Sept. 13, 7-9 pm, at end of salary/commission mid-20's. Thrce creed isn't important. Will answer all. Larry name, address and phone number. Memorial Art located at 713 Monroe Avenue. Project plans to bring a large section of the Roommates/ Rochester. NY 14607 and letters should be Names Quilt to the Southern Tier, and is en Personals THURSDAYS sent there. Attention: Sight Unseen, no later couraging creation of memorial panels. To Housemates than Sept. 30. volunteer as a speaker, sewing participant or Gay XXX Phone Fantasies! Over 200 2 For 1 Cocktails $1.50 Molson display helper, call (607)798-1706. Peer facilitator—Answer the Ciay Alliance choices, gay male or lesbian, all scenes. Roomie! Have I got a place for you! Share $1.00 Cover hotline on a regularly scheduled basis, both Volunteers for Interfaitli Jail Ministry. Five full-play stories only S9.95. Use a wonderfully large 3 bedroom apartment evenings and during daytime hours. Ciood Sept. 8, 9 am-4:30 pm. Salem llnited Church Visa/MasterC;ard/AmHx. C^all in a warm clean neighborhood with modern FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS listening skills a must? Will train. If in of c:hrist, 60 Bitner St. Free. Bring brown bag (303)595-0051. furniture, washer and dryer, and all the com terested, cal! the p.f. line 244-8640, leave a lunch Beverage provided. Training for jail Do you know your HIV status? Com- forts ofa lesbian home. Reply only if you're $1.00 Bar Cocktails 50« Beer visitation. message on (he tape A peer facilitator will munity Health Network, 244-9000. working, dependable, adore animals and 10 p.m. Till Midnight gel back to you own your own sense of humor. Will consider GWM lovers, ages 27 & 28. ver\ goodlook renting to a couple. $ 300 for single. C^all Flash Fireball Shooter Specials ing and masculine, seek two GWFs for social 654-5728. functions, dating and dancing. Should be Dancing Till 3 a.m. athletic, funloving & attractive. Friendship THE ROOMMATE NETWORK INC. Look desired for nc-wcomcrs to Rf>chestc-r. Vfrite ing for a roommate or a place to live? Ciive FRI & SAT SEPT. 7th and Sth Box 1084I, Rochester NY I46l(). us a call—we can help! Wi- arr R<*chf.ste-r\s n>ommate refernd .service! 325-4643 HPA Benefit Attention HIV positive men. If you hate Bring In 3 Cans Of Food For The single life as much as I do. then read on. I'm Roommate needed. Male non-smoker, 22, HlV^iositive, very attractive and on the large room in nine-room house. Full AIDS Food Cupboard lookout for Mr Right. H you're 23-38. not privileges, (;ulver/Bay area. $195 plus, securi- And Pay No Cover Charge into bar scene, a little on the burly side (or ty required 288-6351. a lot!) and looking for more out of life than Share large half house with lesbian and FRI & SAT SEPT 14th and 15th cable TV and microwave dinners, drop me cats. Mostly furni.shed. security system, laun "••A-. a line. This could be the start of something dry, dishwasher, disposal, big yard, low Fall Term Blow Out great. PO Box 26423, Rochester NY 14626. utilities. Must be a mature, responsible, Free Admission With College I.D. Male to Male "Cute little guy." 25. 5*7". working, non-smoking, positive, humorous indivtdual. 654-5584. 125 lbs. Long brown hair, brown eyes. FRI SEPT 14th Wishes to be servant and slave boy to a domi Roommate wanted to share three bedrrs, basement, garage. Modem bath, many MAKE OUR BAR 197 lbs., brown hair and eyes. I lift weights! closets. Heat, hot water supplied. $650. Someone compose poems, read, draw, music etc. Jim Available Sept. 1. 473-8021; 473-0358. ROCHESTER CUSTOM LEATHERS SPECIAL ... Miller, I97023, Box 56, Lebanon OH 45036. VILLAGE GATE SQUARE 442>23:a YOUR BAR... ''Bonjour.** Lonely incarcerated Black male. Fol* Sale 274 N^ GddDIIAN SiV 1-«X>4384NMT AFTER HOURS with a golden complexion and a body that most men admire and the complaint depart TRAVEL ment has been quiet! I'm 5'8*', 150 Ibs. of Palmyra: 2-bedroom mobile home. New • ROCHESTER'S MOST COMPLETE ANTHONY'S MR. RIGHT LOCKPORT, NY pure pleasure, lm caring, loving & sincere, furnace, appliances included. Very low lot only the sincere should reply, will answer rent. Excellent condition. Asking $3500 or SELECTION OF MEN'S MAGAZINES CONVENIENT BO. Call Bea 624-9209. or 315-597-4615 A Unique New all. Keith Degardo Cardcll, #204-551. PO • $2.50/2-Day Video Rentals • FREE Membership EVENING HOURS Box 45699, LucasviUe OH 45699-0001 mornings. Leave message. Concept in Dating • Cod Pieces, Shorts, S&M Supplies, Bondage Supplies J22Ii!r^"'^ iWMOAV TMNU SAnilieAV Services for «W2;AJj;ifWC« TIUVCL CONaUtTATMWS LlSmJT0H0IMESSAG[5& * Leather Jaclcets, Pants, Shirts, Leettier for ail Needs •V A^MMNTMCIfT OM.T TO MTTTCII ftCltVC VOU HOT MAN * Friendly, Personal Service • Open 7 Days a Week MON FRI SPECIAL MEN ONLY WMIK ro MEET OTHEI NOT HUil LEAVE YOUR ANSWER IN NOON to 8 pm Looking for Tops or Bi's COMPLEIE PRIVACY MTI*MATlO»*l 5ZCAV TIIAVIL\ AMOClATlMi 3 for 2 anytime day or nightl on OUP NEV; 436-3266 434-0948 Free Snncks FOM EMCmCMCT TMAVCL CaK KOW far UVE ACnON... ELECTRONIC MAIL BOX Rochester, NY AMUMQCMCIfTS CALL 74 HOUR UNC 4»-«7i2 7 (Mrs A MfCEK 1 •900»999»8500 1-900-234-2345 i$ii •7
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r *?EC Gary Proud may claim to be our benefactor, but he is ofii our friend! SEP * When Mr. Proud recently mailed a campaign * When the Democrats nijft^lii^te^^ brochure to his entire district listing his numerous gifts for City Council in 1985/fie*w^^ to those Uof to "many worthwhile community groups" did he include already holding public officp forsuppoft. Did the Gay Alliance and the Rochester Gay Men's Chorus? Gary Proud endorse Rochester's first gay candidate? NO !!! He did, however, list 68 other "worthwhile" organizations. NO !!! Proud was on^ of |||i|i)^ tw6 Democratic No. 218 elected officials who refused to have thefts September 1, 1990 names on Tim's literatun^. Rochester, NY * Since Proud sits on the Assembly's AIDS Task Force, NEW YORK STATE'S OLDEST GAY NEWSPAPER
his knowledge and sensitivity to the issue must be good. •'"-'4 . '" ., '•'' • * Proud voted for the G^RigIj|p^biUt|i^ NO !!! While the fastest growing group of PWA's is time it came to the floor of the State Assembly. intravenous drug users. Proud introduced legislation to Doesn't this mean we owe him our support? classify AIDS as a sexually transmitted disease! His recent bills would eliminate last year's hard won victory NO !!! Proud helps you with one hand and for the state's confidentiality bill. stabs you in the back with the other. The state Court of Appeals threw out a law banning Fighting "loitering with the intent to commit deviant * Though Proud has had more employees than nearly sexual intercourse." The law had been used to any other local legislator, have any of his staffers been harrass gay men in Buffalo cis they gathered openly gay or lesbian? outside gay bars in that dty at closing. A Militarism conservative Republican Senator from Buffalo NO!!! In fact, one of his employees. Bill Bastuk, tried vowed to find a way to put the law hack on the gay-baiting the Democratic party when he ran a primary books. Guess who sponsored the companion against Louise Slaughter in 1986! bill in the Assembly ~ Gary Proud!
We are rarely presented with such a clear choice in a political race. Susan John has the commitment and sensitivity to gay and women's issues currently lacking in Albany. I don't simply endorse Susan, I have volunteered to help insure her victory." jj^ Q ^^^^^ Rochester City Council Fighting
Vote September 11th, noon to 9pm Military Paid \o( by fhe Friends of Susan John, Ken Gordon, Treasurer Homophobia i S>- IS "^