Issue 3: December 2014/January 2015 Merry Chrsmas NewsletterAl Serving all aspects of sexuality and gender diversity within . Formerly: SGD Life Read More on Page 5

PROUD And A Hapy New Year WORLD AIDS DAY A Time To Remember Friends Past & Present and to Pray For An End to HIV & AIDS

World AIDS Day has been held on 1st December each year since 1988 the first ever awareness ribbon and has launched the release of other and is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against awareness ribbons such as the pink ribbon for breast cancer. Twelve HIV. It is also a day to show our support for people living with HIV and artists came together in New York’s East Village to create and art to commemorate people who have died of HIV related illness and AIDS. project to raise awareness. The group itself comprised of all the arts So many of us in the community will have lost someone or know photographers, painters, film makers and costume designers with the someone living with this decease. Therefore it is important for us to aim to get people talking about the epidemic. In 1991the epidemic was remember those who have passed, those still with us and to pray that still widely referred to as the “gay cancer” and was highly stigmatised this virus will end in our life time. Current statistics show that their are with those living with the disease left to suffer behind closed doors, too 100,000 people currently living with HIV in the UK and globally the scared to even tell their loved ones they were living with the virus. The number is estimated as 34 million. More than 35 million people have ribbon was used to create a visual expression of compassion for these died from the virus since it was discovered and this makes it one of the people living with, and affected by, HIV. The inspiration behind the most destructive pandemics in world history. Today, many scientific ribbon itself was the yellow ribbons tied on trees to denote support for advances have been made in HIV treatment but theere is still no cure the US military fighting in the Gulf War at the time. The colour was and people are still dying daily. We have come a long way since the first much harder to decide upon with pink and the rainbow colours being World AIDS Day in the UK there are now laws to protect people living decided against as they were to linked with the gay community. This with HIV. Unfortunately however many do not know the facts about how was because the artists wanted to convey that HIV went beyond the to protect themselves and others from HIV, and stigma and gay community and was relevant to everyone. The final decision of the discrimination remain a reality for many people living with HIV. Last colour Red was because it was bold and as well as associated with month, it was reported that HIV diagnoses in the UK reached a record passion, the heart and love. The artists made the ribbons themselves high in 2013, with diagnoses among 15 to 24-year-olds having doubled and distributed them around the New York art scene and dropped them in the last ten years. In this age group in studies many are reporting to off at theaters. Initially there was an explanation that went with it, to believe you are able to identify those with the disease and there will explain why they were being worn, but eventually this was dropped as soon be a cure. World AIDS Day is therefore important as it reminds the its symbolism no longer needed an explanation. Closely linked with the community, the public and the Government that HIV has not gone away New York Art Scene and the East Village many stars including pop there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight queen Madonna received one of the first and began to wear it raising prejudice and improve education. awareness further for the campaign. Within just a few weeks of the Facts You May Not Know About HIV & AIDS artists giving life to the Red Ribbon world-famous actors starting People living with HIV have a normal life span if diagnosed and treated wearing the red ribbon to high-profile award ceremonies such as the in time.Treatment can also mean that people living with HIV are no Oscars and talking about why it was important. The media also longer infectious. supported the idea and it was widely discussed on talk shows • There is no job which someone can’t do specifically because they becoming a world wide universal symbol that was recognised and have HIV and people with HIV can work up until retirement without grew in popularity. issue. Further Information Locally • 90% of people with HIV were infected through sexual contact. For further information on HIV and AIDS in staffordshire find • You can now get tested for HIV using a saliva sample and you can staffordshire buddies on facebook or visit their webpage at get the results of an HIV test in just 15-20 minutes. www.staffordshirebuddies.co.uk • Only 1% of babies born to HIV positive mothers have HIV so men Remembrance Events 1st December and women living with HIV can become parents of an HIV free baby. Quilt of Life Staffordshire Buddies Hanley Centre – 3pm onwards • There is no vaccine and no cure for HIV. World AIDS Day Candlelight Vigil - Fountain Square, Hanley 5.30pm. All • People living with HIV still face stigma and discrimination with one in are welcome three people living with HIV have faced discrimination of some type. Piccadilly Project,Chill, relax, celebrate and see what the latest is The Red Ribbon Meaning around HIV services in the City and County. Open door 6-9pm The ribbon was created in 1991 a decade after the emergence of HIV Lichfield Cathedral World AIDS Day Service, 7.30 pm. and has since become a universal sign of support and remembrance World Aids Day 80’s Night at Gossip 8pm till Late £2 Admission for those who live with or have died from the virus. When created it was proceeds go to Stoke on Trent Pride & Staffordshire Buddies Inside this Issue Whats On Scene Guide & Events Page 7 Page 5 A Quick History of Sexuality and Gender Page 2 LGBT Education In Schools Diversity Part 3 (1920-1930) It Will Be Lonely This Christmas Why the Name Change Understanding Gender Queer Page 3 Page 6 Page 8 Christmas & New Year In Staffordshire LGBT Police Update Bar Staff Of Stoke Nom Restaurant & Bar In Review Out and about In Manchester - New Union Pride Team Update Page 4 Hotel & Show bar Contacts, Contributors and Sponsors Local Support Groups Contacts A to Z Gaylife One Stop Testing Provision IT WILL BE LONELY THIS CHRISTMAS Extend Your Family This Christmas Let’s Tackle Depression in the Community this Season

Research has shown in the sexual and Statistics gender diverse community depression, When looking at statistic it is hard anxiety and suicidal thoughts increase to get definitive numbers on the by 400% in the community at issue however a recent study Christmas Time. This in particular is a carried out by UK based mental rough time for those alone with no health organisations did have some family to visit for christmas but for those revealing numbers. In December with family it can be a difficult and 2013 they carried out a month long stressful time also. Even many couples conversation using social media on find Christmas tough, especially where all aspects of mental health in the they have unresolved issues with their conversation depression and anxiety for two thirds of he conversations. families. For these couples its particularly Whereas the issue of christmas was raised in the context of the difficult as often they not spend Christmas together because of discussions a number of time accounting for three quarters of these problems, and unsympathetic or rejecting families put extra conversation in the reason for the depression or anxiety. The pressure on couples. organisations involved concluded that christmas raised depression and We would like to encourage everyone to reach out a supporting hand to anxiety in three quarters of their contacts and lead to suicidal or friends you know will be alone this year or have a difficult time and for thoughts of self harm in a third of those contacts. those having a difficult time we encourage you to also reach out to friends. By launching a Campaign of “Extend Your Family This North Staffs Mind Christmas”. The fantastic and extremely The Season has become a difficult supportive North Staffs Mind were time for many people in our asked for their thoughts on community. For those of us who don't depression at christmas. Diane have difficulties at this time of year, it's Collingwood Head of Counseling an opportunity to reach out to those Services for the charity wrote: who become depressed at this time “As outlined in the article, Christmas can be a particularly difficult time mostly due to being alone when for people who are alone or feeling isolated from family and friends for everyone else is with family and any reason. Everyone’s mental health is affected by a whole variety of friends. For those who are alone at factors; money worries, relationship issues, discrimination, lack of Christmas and feeling depressed, this is an opportunity to take action to support, trauma, issues from the past etc. If you are already struggling think, feel and act in ways that breaks free from the past. To make new with some of those, then the added burden of Christmas can make it friends maybe even new family you don’t need to be alone this feel overwhelming. christmas reach out invite someone over to spend the day with you too. Expectations about what Christmas “should” be like are everywhere in Due to isolation and depression we lose so many of the community at our culture, from Coca Cola and John Lewis adverts to the Christmas this time through depression and suicide. Can you help to change that decorations put up in October to drive our purchasing. The fact that for will you open your home to someone alone this christmas. And if your many people this idea of this time of year is a fantasy is rarely shown, the one alone this christmas will you take the opportunity to meet new but remember, there are probably as many people dreading Christmas people and make new friends. Get involved invite someone for as are looking forward to it. If we also put ourselves under the pressure Christmas Dinner no one should be alone this Christmas. As a of our own expectations of what Christmas should be, then we are community we can stop this and join together to make someones doubly hit. Christmas and even save a life that may otherwise be wasted are you up If you are not able to have the “perfect” or even “good enough” for making that difference? Can our great community in Stoke make a Christmas for whatever reason, then maybe you can actually look at difference this Christmas and stop those percentages from rising even what your own expectations are doing to add to your stress. If you further by giving a friend a true gift this Christmas one of friendship, change your idea of what a good Christmas for you could be – then it family and love? could really help alleviate the pain. A day spent alone but eating what “Somehow, not only for Christmas but all the long year through, the you want, watching what you want, doing what you want rather than joy that you give to others is the joy that comes back to you. And what others say and allowing yourself to enjoy that, will be a much the more you spend in blessing the poor, lonely and sad, the more better day for you. If you spend the day yearning for what society of your heart’s possessing returns to you glad” - John Greenleaf expects, a huge turkey, party hats, and merriment then it will be a “Having been homeless and alone difficult day. And remember much of that merriment is as fake as it at Christmas I have always found seems (how many Christmas days end in drunken family rows and a pleasure in opening my home now distinct lack of the proverbial to those less fortunate at this time Christmas spirit?) of year. This small act brings joy Christmas just highlights what and warmth to my heart when ever we may be experiencing for the I am able to do it and I hope many rest of the year. If that is the others in the community feel the case, then seek out support and same no one should spend help to tackle some of the Christmas alone. So for those of us fortunate enough to have a roof over underlying issues which need to our head and food for the table its never a sacrifice to share our be sorted so that in future years blessings with others and bring joy to someone else. So I hope the you don’t have to feel the same. community will take on board this idea and take a friend who may And if you can reach out to otherwise be alone this Christmas into their home for the day all it takes others for support, do it don’t let is sharing some food with them and showing a little kindness. And if pride stand in your way. your going to be alone this Christmas why not reach out and arrange a Remember too there are support services which you can turn to if you group get together with friends lets extend our hearts our homes and really need to speak to someone, Samaritans are there 365 days of the our families to make this Christmas season a fantastic one for every year, and Staffordshire Mental Health Helpline also operates over single member of the community” - Quinlan Reardon-Garlick Christmas (0808 800 2234).” CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR IN STAFFORDSHIRE VENUE’S Events Places We Recommend Christmas Opening Time’s 80‘s Themed Word Aids Night 1st December 8pm till Late at Gossip. Hope Street, For Great Food Hanley. £2 entry with all door fee’s being split between Pride and Staffordshire Buddies. Candlelight Evening 1st and 8th December at 7pm to 9pm £10 entry Baby Russets to book your visit call 01782 537696 Traditional English Restaurant Douglas Macmillan’s Skate & Donate 1st December 3pm till 9pm at Trentham Shopping 42, Kingsway, Stoke. VIP Booth Bookings Available Village. Donate £5 for an hour on the ice. Also get you Douglas Macmillan raffle Stoke on Trent, Staffs. ST4 1JH Mon 22 Dec - 5pm-4am tickets now to £3,000 or a holiday in New York £1 a ticket ring the team on 01782 Taking Christmas Bookings Now Xmas Eve - 3pm-4am 344321 or email them at [email protected]. Tel : 01782 749688 5th December from 5pm at The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery Website: www.babyrussets.co.uk £4 Entry Twilight Carols Lichfield Christmas Festival Weekend 6th &7th December Lichfield Market Square and Email : [email protected] Xmas Day - Closed surrounding streets celebrate Christmas with a weekend of festive events. Facebook : Babyrussets Boxing Day - 5pm-4am Stone Farmers' Market Stone town centre 6th December 9am to 4pm Twitter : babyrussets Sat 27 Dec - 5pm-4am World AIDS Day Remembrance and Celebration Service 7th December Holy Trinity The Church, , Stoke on Trent - 3.30 pm. – All are welcome Sun 28 Dec - 12pm-2am Pub & Restaurant Santa in his Christmas Cottage 7th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd Biddulph Grange Mon 29 Dec - 5pm-4pm 119-121 Birches Head Road, Garden visit Santa to tell him your wish list. Birches Head, Stoke-on-Trent, New Years Eve- 5pm-TBC Stafford Farmers Market Stafford Town Centre 13th December 9.30am to 4pm Staffordshire, ST1 6LL 14th December 3pm Lindsay £5 Entry Keele Concert Band, 30th Annual Christmas Concert. Taking Christmas Bookings Now Studio, Keele University. Lots of festival fun with plenty of audience participation Tel: 01782 219165 New Years Day - Closed featuring carols and other festive favorites. Fri 2 Jan - 5pm-4am The Star Bikers 37th Annual Toy Run 14th December at the Britannia stadium (Stoke NOM city FC) from11am Visit www.stokebikeruns.co.uk for more details. Restaurant & Bar On the Stones Market Newcastle Town Centre 19th December 9am to 3pm 95-97 Stafford Street, Hanley City Fine Food and Craft Market Penkridge Market 20th December 9am to 4pm Centre, Stoke on Trent, Fine Food Market Leek Market Place 20th December 9am to 3pm Staffordshire. ST1 1LS Open Auditions for "Godspell" 21st December 10am at The Quality Hotel 66 Trinity Taking Christmas Bookings Now Now Taking Christmas Bookings Street, Hanley. Register for your audition online at: www.fivetownstheatre.org.uk/ Tel: 01782 479404 Xmas Eve - 8pm-Late* audition-registration Email: [email protected] Xmas Day - CLOSED* Eccleshall Farmers Eccleshall Market under the coaching arch of the Royal Oak 27th Website: www.nomrestaurant.com December 9am to 1pm Boxing Day - 8pm-4am* Carry on Quizzing A fundraising monthly quiz for Stoke on Trent Pride 28th December The Swan Sat 27 Dec - 8pm-4am* & 28th January held at The Swan, Swan Square, Burslem from 7.30pm £2 entry per Bar & Restaurant. Sun 28 Dec - 8pm-4am* person buffet provided Swan Square, Stoke on Trent. Staffs. ST6 3EA New Years Eve- 8pm-TBC* Burns Night Celebrations 23rd January 2015 at Best Western Premier Moor Hall Hotel. The evening includes all that is best from the north of the border: £39.50 per Taking Christmas Bookings Now New Years Day - CLOSED* person, includes a four course dinner and entertainment, or £145 for a couple Tel: 01782 698282 Fri 2 Jan - 8pm-4am including an overnight stay with full English breakfast. For further details visit Facebook: The Swan Burslem *Unconfirmed at time of going to press www.moorhallhotel.co.uk Times Maybe Subject to Change The Reunion 24th January 2015 from 8pm at Floral Hall Tunstall Park We are only recommending these ST6 6EE. Admission is £6 Email [email protected] Twitter: @goldsoulupdate restaurants and maintain no liability for tickets and details. NOM RESTAURANT & BAR IN REVIEW Nom has moved into the LGBT Quarter so we checked out the new premises and food. NOM has moved to bigger and wine & cocktails for the adults as well as teas, coffees and a hot better premises in the heart of what chocolate to die for. is now fondly referred to by many On our visit it was really busy with a good flow of people calling in and as the LGBT quarter. They opened a very mixed clientele of all ages and groups and our meals were on the 3rd of November to the fantastic and well presented with great service. It really does seem the public so we thought we would team behind NOM have got it so right the venue, the staff and of check out the venue and food to course the food hit the nail on the head giving a superb dining see whats new. Well the venue is no experience. longer tucked away nor should it be NOM is something the city centre has been crying out for a restaurant with such great food on offer it is now in the heart of the city that provides great cuisine in fantastic surroundings and is perfect for positioned next door to Pink and a quick walk to Gossip though a romantic meal or a meal out with friends as well as a pre theatre bite keeping the bar area booking only for meal means you still get a nice to eat. We wish the team great success in the new venue and believe quiet atmosphere. Indeed the new venue is decorated to a superb with the venue getting it so right they will grow and grow being one of finish and the staff are as friendly as ever and the food seems to have the best restaurant in the city for some time to come. gotten even better from our last visit. The decor is a great mix of traditional, modern and the quirky with tea cups and jars used to great effect as lighting suiting a brand which serves food that is traditional with a modern and quirky twist. NOM is open each day Monday through to Saturday, serving a mix of British and European cuisine with something for all tastes. The menu is available to view online at their website www.nomrestaurant.com and you can also book your table on line there too for an evening meal though in the day they encourage a walk in policy. They have a fully licensed bar, serving a range of soft drinks, draught & bottled beer, LOCAL SUPPORT GROUPS CONTACTS A - Z WHATS ON Disability Solutions find out more find then on Facebook OLGBT Scene Guide & Events For North Staffs & Stoke-on-Trent. A charity providing support to those with December & January disabilities to remove barriers in society due to Rainbow Practice disabilities. For More Info Visit their website - This service takes place twice a month at the Gossip: disability-solutions.net Community and Health Centre on a Stoke-on-Trent's Newest Wednesday evening. Providing the opportunity to Galaxy Community Bar & talk to a GP who runs a service specifically This is a local youth group run by the Gaylife catering to bi and gay males the service is friendly Mon 5pm - 4am service for LGBT Young People aged 14 to 19 and confidential. To arrange a visit contact Gaylife Thurs 5pm - 4am allowing a safe place to meet others and discuss on 0300 123 0970. Fri 5pm - 4am issues. To get involved contact Zoe or Andrew on Sat 5pm - 4am 0300 123 0970 or add them on Facebook Samaritans Sun 2pm - 2am Galaxyyouth Samaritans is a national service offering help Regular Theme Nights Including Film Gay Life advice or a listening ear you don't need to be suicidal to ring. They know a lot about what can Night, Quiz Night, Ladies/Mens/Other This is a sexual health and support service for the help you through tough times. They can help you Evenings. As well as great Dj’s, Cabaret community across Stoke-on-Trent and explore your options, understand your problems and so much more. Staffordshire. They are a one stop shop for better, or just be there to listen. For More Info Visit Facebook: Gossip Stoke information advice or guidance in regards of the Website - samaritans.org or telephone 01782 Pink Hanley: managing your sexual health. For More 213555 or 08457 909090 Information Contact them on 0300 123 0970 or Cabaret Bar & Nightclub add them on Facebook Gaylifessotp Sanctuary Thurs 9pm - 4am LGBT Police Staffordshire Sanctuary is a group that allows like minded Fri 8pm - 4am Midnight Cabaret people who are trans in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire LGBT Police Association has been Sat 8pm - 4am Staffordshire to me socially. They offer a secure, supporting officer and staff for over 10 years. The Sun 9pm to 4am confidential environment where any questions you Drag DJ Nightly & Regular Guest Acts group is also very active in the LGBT community, may have can be answered and there is further Tel: 01782 272772 attending Pride events, raising awareness of hate support if required. This is not a professional Facebook: Pink - Stoke On Trent crime and same sex domestic violence. For more counseling or advice service but their aim is to information visit them on Facebook LGBT Police provide support to Trans people and their families Stoke-on-Trent Pride Team Staffordshire and friends. For More Info Visit the Website - Wear It Red 80s Night Sanctuarystoke.com LGBT Zone 1st December Is a new support group across Staffordshire and Staffordshire Buddies Gossip 8pm onwards to celebrate South Cheshire hosting various support including Is a local charity whose mission is to reduce the World Aids Day all funds raised split support regarding sexual health, domestic abuse impact of HIV through providing support, between Pride & Staffordshire Buddies and homophobic and transphobic crime. They information, advocacy and advice to those living have the facilities to provide services through a Pride Public Meeting with or affected by the virus. For More Info Visit telephone helpline, instant messaging or email. As 12th February the Website - staffordshirebuddies.co.uk or well as advice on community groups etc they telephone 01782 201251 To be held at Pink Cabaret Bar & work collaboratively with all the local support Nightclub at 7.30pm services and community groups. For More Info Staffordshire Pink-Link Carry On Quizzing Visit the Website - lgbtzone.org.uk follow them on A women’s social group find them on Facebook: Facebook or by telephone helpline 01782 444052 28th December & 28th January Staffordshire Pink-Link Held at the Swan Burslem a mix of North Staffs Mind Stoke-on-Trent Pride question music, picture, dingbats and A registered charity and an experienced provider scrabble with amazing prizes including of mental health services primarily in North Stoke on Trent Pride has been re-established by a a £50 Jackpot to be won. Staffordshire. They deliver local mental health new management team that are proud to present services, provide information and support, and a bigger than ever Pride event for the people of The Swan Burslem: Stoke on Trent this year. In addition the campaign to improve policy and attitudes for both Gay Friendly Bar & Restaurant adults and young people. For More Info Visit the organization is now a registered charity. Stoke on Fridays Karaoke Website - nsmind.org.uk or telephone 01782 Trent Pride is here for everyone, whether you are Sundays Acoustic night 262100 Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Heterosexual or however you identify yourself, Trevor M last Saturday of the month. OLGBT Group there is no prejudice on race, colour, creed or Opening Times 12pm till Late This is a group for those identifying as Older sexuality. EVERYONE is EQUAL and WELCOME. Food Served LGBT community members it is a social group We hope that everyone enjoys the day. For More Tel: 01782 698282 and they do occasionally arrange outings etc. To Info or to get involved in Pride 2015 Visit the Facebook: The Swan Burslem Website - stokeontrentpride.org.uk LGBT EDUCATION IN SCHOOLS Teachers have a huge role to play in young people’s lives, and all • Promoting equality, safety and visibility in education for LGBT focus groups and research one thing is clear their role in supporting people and all the protected characteristics young people was highlighted. The problem is the majority of young Read more about this charity and download resources, training or people don’t feel that teachers are prepared enough to support them become a member at www.schools-out.org.uk. in regards of sexuality or gender diversity on a one-to-one basis. A Teachers and parents and the community can debate the issues and major highlighted in most studies is that in the classroom many how education should be presented all they like but we felt it was teachers do not challenge comments enough, and do not ensure that important to get the perspective of the youth on this issue. LGBT issues are visible. Many believed teachers were unable to support them with their issues mainly as this requires time, and A Youth Perspective patience, as a young person may need to build a relationship with the teacher first. This can be tackled by teachers being more inclusive in We spoke to local LGBT Youth Activist Dannii Potts who once ran the lessons as this indicate to many of the young people whether they Youth Network in Stoke-on-Trent and also worked on a schools feel they can get support from a particular teacher. So many young education project for the now closed LGBT Network Charity to get his people in studies young highlight that in schools many young people view on the issues. This is what he had to say: have learning disabilities, and a lot of teachers appear to wrongly “LGBT Education in schools has been a passion of his since coming assume that they do not have sexualities this is an annoyance in most out at the start of Year 9 in high school. Having suffered severe studies with young people feeling that adults need to educate bullying i found that a previous charity gave me the voice to begin the themselves more in order to support young on issues of sexuality and necessary steps I needed to take. It was this charity that helped me gender diversity. towards not only raising awareness of Homophobic bullying in Schools but also to help increase the education and knowledge of young minds when it comes to LGBT Issues. Since the abolishment of section 28 (the law in education banning any teaching of LGBT issues) those in the teaching profession still find it difficult to talk about LGBT issues with their students due to the lack of understanding and knowledge of many a students and parents. Although we all would hope that everyone knows these issues, it is just not the case. I believe that there are a few things in which all youth, not just LGBT but all youth should be taught, for example how many people can honestly say they know much of the gay rights history or causes or any civil rights movement. I haven't been asked to write this to tell you what these things are. Ive been asked my opinion on LGBT Education following my role with the previous LGBT Network as youth and Education Officer. After trying to break through to many schools the general demographic showed that schools were to scared to teach these things. We are very lucky that For many teachers thought this is not a matter of not understanding the LGBT youth of today can meet at a youth group known as Galaxy the issues or wanting to be supportive but the fact that they are not run by the NHS that meets every Saturday who help to teach LGBT given the resources needed to offer support. Many are not even made youth about Sex, STIS and prevention. If you are aged 13-19 you can find out about this by searching for Galaxy Youth Group on Facebook. aware of the national charity Schools Out whose overriding aim is to make schools safe and inclusive for all by doing the following: The LGBT community have come a very long way over the past 2/3 decades and we still have a long way to go, but know this, teachers • Providing both a formal and informal support network for all people who want to raise the issue of homophobia, biphobia, transphobia have a duty of care to ALL students and they will look after ALL and heterosexism in education. students no matter of race, sexuality, gender or religion! It is just going to be a long time before teachers feel they can talk about LGBT • Campaigning on lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans issues as they affect education and those in education. issues/history and education in the classroom. I for one can not wait until we see the day that these things are taught • Researching, debating and stimulating curriculum development on LGBT issues. in lessons such as history and PSHE/health and social. That will be yet another massive step to being in an even more equal state to the • Working towards unison between teacher and lecturer unions and other professional stakeholders in education rest of society.” WHY THE NAME CHANGE As you will have noticed we’ve had a name change so heres why!!!! So in an over reach and complete misuse of power as you will know temporary account in his middle name as his main account of course Facebook has been disabling the accounts of Drag Queens, Artists, this meant not only did he lose all his pictures folders but access to Pagans, Performers, Trans and more for not using their real name. everything else. So we have since set up a Wordpress page in the Our editor got very involved in the campaign against this which name of SGDLife however the issue of access still existed so it was encouraged people all over to change their name in support of these decided we needed to create a new Facebook page. individuals. Unfortunately it seems Facebook did not quite enjoy the This brings us to the second reason for the name change of the idea in the supportive way it was meant and Quin’s Facebook newsletter. After some market research about the title of SGD we account was disabled and blocked while he was visiting Turkey as a found many constantly wanted to refer to it as STD a comparison fake account despite it having been on the system for over 5 years. that didn't bode well as funny as it was. So after some discussion we As you can imagine this caused distress to himself and his family and decided to change the Wordpress page to PROUD and create a new friends who weren’t sure what had happened at first. However Quin Facebook page and rebrand the news letter as PROUD. It has been a did send in proof of identity to Facebook however to no avail so far difficult time for Quin both personally and professionally but as he but as his account was linked to our former SGDLife page of which said “everything happens for a reason, to either teach us or guide us he was the only Admin with two others editors of the page this meant to something new” and he is extremely happy to relaunch under the the ownership was in limbo. PROUD brand for the newsletter a title that he feels better fits the So Quin has had to set up an account in his middle name while he newsletter and the vision behind it. So please come and like us on was away to reassure his family and friends he was ok but unable to both Facebook and Wordpress as below: do anything relating to his old account. Unfortunately after over a Facebook: PROUD Staffordshire Newsletter month of appealing to Facebook to have his account re-established Wordpress: proudstaffordshire.wordpress.com it seems this will not be happening. So Quin decided to establish the Email: proudstaff[email protected] LGBT POLICE STAFFORDSHIRE & NATIONWIDE UPDATES Careers In Staffordshire Police • What is classified as a hate crime or a hate incident and what is the The Staffordshire Police force is one of the county’s major and most difference between the two. forward thinking forces with an employment record based on equality • Ways in which you might wish to report such crimes or incidents and and diversity. They provide policing to over more than a million people an online reporting form. from the West Midlands Police border in the south to the Peak District • Advice and information for support of victims of hate crimes or National Park in the North. The force is a large employer across incidents along with organisations to help. staffordshire and employs approximately 3,500 individuals with actual We all know that reporting a crime can be difficult for the victim but it police officers accounting for over have of these positions while they can make a difference not only to you but to your friends family and the also have over 200 Community Support Officers and 400 Volunteer community as a whole. Unfortunately studies show two thirds of all Special Constables. hate crimes go unreported so we really do need to begin reporting The staffordshire police force appears yearly in high positions on the them. If we each report any hate crime or incident we can prevent Stonewall Equality Index of employers and provides a diverse policing anyone else from suffering the same and hopefully wipe out hate in our presence to the community with equality and diversity being at its heart. area. So it is important every member of our community report any This cements their position as one of the most gay friendly police forces such incident or crime quickly so that not only can the police and employers in the country offering many career paths with plenty of apprehend the assailant but also understand the causes of these hate opportunities for personal and professional development. If you wish to crimes. For more information visit www.report-it.org.uk. learn more about working for the police or to register your interest please visit staffordshire.police.uk/careers and if you are interested in volunterring as a special for the staffordshire police force please visit www.staffsspecials.org. True Vision Official Police Hate Crime Reporting Site If you have experienced any type of hate crime no mater whether it be on the grounds of sexuality, gender identity, race, religion or disability this is a one stop page for advice, resources and to report the incident. We all know hate crime is wrong however it happens far to often and that is why it is important to report any hate crime we see whether its against ourselves or someone else. True Vision offers that ability to report the crime even anonymously if preferred as well as information on the subject. On the site itself you can find information on the following and much more: OUT AND ABOUT IN MANCHESTER - NEW UNION HOTEL & SHOW BAR The New Union Hotel and Show Bar outdoor seating available. At night the Show Bar part of the venue is one of the Oldest establishments opens with drink deals, karaoke, cabaret shows and disco nights. on Canal Street and featured heavily People come from all over the world to experience Canal Street and in the TV drama Queer As Folk. the history of the LGBT community that the New Union represents. The Hotel Rooms above the Bar are On our visit the staff were amazing providing a friendly and fun clean and modern en suite rooms atmosphere to the bar while getting involved and showing interest in with an LCD TV and free Wi-Fi. All the customers. The decor is modern and clean and drinks deals are rooms have tea/coffee facilities, well worth a visit with amazing drag acts and entertainment whilst hairdryers and irons available. throughout the evening. If you would like to book a stay or just visit The Bar itself is open during the day the venue get in touch with them on the details below: with friendly staff and a juke box Phone: 0161 228 1492 Email: [email protected] playing an eclectic mix of music and GAYLIFE ONE STOP TESTING PROVISION On visiting Gossip with friends we saw that Gaylife had their one stop Gaylife so we can only speculate on the reasons for the current testing desk at the venue to test for set STD’s. These one stop testing provision limits. We assume the reasons behind the limit on the provisions have always been a great idea which encourage all walks provision is due to the funding in place for the service as this is often of life to take up the chance to be tested easily and quickly that need the case with funding thats its targeted to a set group or age range. to be congratulated. However we are hopeful that the NHS will see that such a provision Unfortunately however on talking to the volunteers we were told these refusing those coming forward to use it on the grounds of their age is tests were only available to those under the age of twenty four which a missed opportunity to provide testing at the point of contact and by we thought was a great shame. Especially when using a venue with having this policy they could indeed cause individuals to go un tested such a mixed clientele from 18 to 80 it seemed silly that the test were and be at risk to their own health and others. Of course don't wish to only available to such a small percentage of the age range that visit take anything away from the great work that Gaylife do with the under the venue. This stuck in our minds especially as recently we received 25s in fact we celebrate it as its vital important work they are doing. an email asking why we didn’t report on Gaylife’s failure of support for No we hope that they are able to expand the services they offer soon the over 25’s something we hadn't considered before. But with this to cover all of the community at any age because lets face it Gaylife experience it was clear to see why some in the community may feel doesn't stop at twenty five in fact its only just that Gaylife is failing the over 25’s. We therefore began to wonder beginning. what the reason for this set age level for one stop testing was and So for those who feel that Gaylife is failing the wasn’t this alienating and ageist to other members of the community over 25’s maybe its time we placed more wishing to access the service. Our main concern was that if someone pressure upon the NHS to find the funding presented at this one stop testing provision and was turned away on in order to provide these service for all. As the grounds of age would they then be likely to search out testing their is indeed a need for such provisions to elsewhere so we contacted the NHS to find out the reasoning for the be provided to all with the current sharp maximum age and gain their thoughts on the issue. Unfortunately we rises in STD and AIDS infections in the LGBT did not get a reply from the NHS about the the provisions provided by community. A Quick History of Sexuality and Gender Diversity Part 3 (1920-1930) 1921: In England an attempt to make lesbianism illegal for the first time in Britain's history fails. 1922: A new criminal code comes into force in the USSR officially decriminalizing homosexual acts. 1923: The word fag is first used in print in reference to gays in Nels Anderson's The Hobo: "Fairies or Fags are men or boys who exploit sex for profit." 1923: Lesbian Elsa Gidlow born in England, published the first volume of openly lesbian love poetry in the United States, titled "On A Grey Thread." 1924: The first homosexual rights organisation in America is founded by Henry Gerber in Chicago the Society for Human Rights. 1924: Panama, Paraguay and Peru legalize homosexuality. 1926: The New York Times is the first major publication to use the word "homosexuality". 1927: Karol Szymanowski, Poland's openly gay composer, is appointed chief of Poland's state-owned national music school, the Fryderyk Chopin Music Academy. 1928: The Well of Loneliness by Radcliffe Hall is published in the UK and later in the United States. This brings the topic of homosexuality to public conversation. 1929: Lesbian Author of America the Beautiful, Katharine Lee Bates Dies.

UNDERSTANDING GENDER QUEER So many in our community do not understand this particular aspect of Try walking into a a toilet of the opposite sex to what you are. Seriously, gender diversity. So lets explore this section of the community a little try it the next time you are at the movies. Gauge your comfort level, deeper. your sense of safety. Introduce yourself to someone as a name of the What is Genderqueer? opposite sex – how does that feel (wrong, weird, awkward)? How do other people treat you (with disdain, with surprise, with ridicule)? Now Firstly every person who identifies as genderqueer defines their gender imagine looking at yourself in the mirror and seeing yourself as the differently. This is because genderqueer has become a big umbrella opposite sex of what you are. Nobody is staring at the mirror except term encompassing so much variation in gender that it really does you, but how do you feel? come down to each individual. Transgender people experience something similar: a disconnect For a lot of people who identify as genderqueer, their gender identity – between their birth sex and the gender they are, in addition to how and the way they express it – continues to evolve for a number of years. people see them and what is expected of them. Transgender people This includes clothes, pronouns, name, physical transition, and other who are binary-identified find comfort on the other side of the stuff. It’s not necessarily that genderqueer people are confused, it’s just spectrum: if they were born male, they see themselves as female, and that discovering who you know yourself to be can be a long process, are at home looking like and being seen as girls or women. which often involves unlearning years of what we thought we were However, some trans people find distress or discomfort when putting supposed to be. themselves in the female side as well as the male side. Neither box Coming out doesn’t mean they will necessarily share the whole process feels quite right. Other people feel like they belong on both sides, or with you, either because they choose to keep some things private (for more on one side than the other. This is just a sliver of how whatever reason), or they are just shy about bringing it up. As an genderqueer people experience their gender. outsider, it can be frustrating to see changes and feel like you’re being What does it really mean to be a man or a woman? Gender identity kept in the dark. Be patient with these changes. If someone is goes beyond gender roles. It runs deeper than clothes, hair, makeup, comfortable enough to come out to you, keep checking in. It’s better to colors; although these are means to express it, they do not make your ask than to assume. gender. To me gender identity is a feeling: something internal, In the most part from experience Genderqueer is a term that may be intangible, and very difficult to explain with words. used to describe those who do not fit into gender positions that This is where the gender queer individual lives not female or male but a mankind commonly use there tends to be six categories but there is so mix of both and lets face it gender is not about whats between the legs much that doesn't fit these prescribed categories: its a man made construct to tell us how we should behave according to 1. Both man and woman (example: androgyne) the sex we are born into. 2. Neither man nor woman (agender, neutrois, non-gendered) 3. Moving between two or more genders (gender fluid) A Closing Word from The Editor 4. Third gendered or other-gendered (includes those who prefer This is a subject very close to my heart as one of the people I love most “genderqueer” or “non-binary” to describe their gender without labeling in life and refer to as my adopted child identifies to this spectrum of it otherwise) gender diversity. We use none gender specific pronouns such as they 5. Having an overlap or blur of gender and orientation and/or sex and their because this is what they are comfortable with however other (girlfags and guydykes) people in this group may choice to be ok with male or female pronouns. 6. Those who “queer” gender, in presentation or otherwise, who may or My child is one of the most fantastic, caring and genuinely brilliant may not see themselves as non-binary or having a gender that is queer; people I know who will do anything to help people and I am so proud to this category may also include those who are consciously political or have them in my life they have given me so much joy and happiness radical in their understanding of being genderqueer over the years. As stated many may not fit these categories as gender queer is all It therefore makes my heart weep to hear people refer to individuals about not fitting binary categories of gender and sexuality and being who identify this way as weird or unable to decide what gender they their own person free to express male or female characteristics when want to be why should anyone have to conform to a man made gender ever they wish. construct. Why should they be considered weird or strange for being Lets get to the Root Of It who they were born to be and these opinions are more commonly found in the LGB and Trans community than the wider community Understanding individuals that fall into this group can be hard and we which is a real shame. often here phrases like but thats weird how does it work so ask yourself For me it is time we as a community embraced every single individual these questions: for the uniqueness and as themselves each and everyone of us is equal What if I told you that tomorrow you will feel exactly the same, and see and the diversity of the community is what makes us great. I see no yourself in the same way. However, everyone else sees you as the problem with any person wishing to identify as however they want in life opposite to what you are, treats you as the opposite of what you are, whether that be as the opposite sex or as no sex at all. We are all equal and expects you to do the role of the opposite gender to what you are. and we are all unique individuals who have the right to live by how we It’s hard to realistically imagine this, we know, so let’s do an experiment. choose too and who we wish to be. CHRISTMAS BAR STAFF FEATURED SPONSOR A Christmas line up of some of the lovely guys and gals that will be serving us The Queen's Arms formerly known as the Electric Bar is now our drinks this holiday season don’t forget to tip them it’s their Christmas too. under the full management of the long running Bar Manager Julie. As suggested by one of our readers its time to shine a light on some of the Theres lots going on: Regular Poker Nights ,Singer Every Friday amazing staff we have in our venues and local gay friendly venues. Monthly Wine and Cheese Nights, Theme Nights,A New Monthly Team Gossip Quiz Every 1st Sunday of the Month from 6pm. And much much Under the leadership of Manager Marc Richardson Gossip has formed a brilliant more. 111 Upper Huntbach Street, ST1 2BX Stoke-on-Trent. team of bar staff including the brilliant and dedicated Chloe, the ever bubbly Julie invites you to join her and the team for a great night or day Karliko, the outrageous Dannii, the hard working Max and the brilliant Jon and out where everyone is made to feel at home and everyone is many more. The team are bubbly outrageous and always ready for a laugh and welcome with the odd feeding of the bar happening regularly. So will be serving your drinks from early to late with a smile on their face. come along to a great traditional community pub where the fun Team Pink never stops and everyone is made to feel like family. Lead by Steven Buckley Pink has assembled some of the hottest staff in town many work topless and nearly all are stunning specimens if you want some eye candy this christmas be sure to check out Pink. Where the staff will get you blood pumping while serving you a great range of drinks and keeping you entertained till late. Team The Queens Arms The Queens is popular with the 30+ community and Julie is the hostess with the mostess that makes everyone feel welcome as the Landlady of the pub and a believer in people are people. Ensuring who ever you are you receive a warm welcome as well as providing snacks to start you up for any night out and ensuring a great night out. Team The Swan Serving some stunning food Kay the manager has built a great team around her who are each brilliant at the jobs and keep the bar fun and the drinks flowing. A traditional land lady Kay has made The Swan is popular with the over 30’s LGBT community with her witty banter she always makes it fun and her staff follow suit. PRIDE TEAM UPDATE This Halloween the Pride Team got spooky taking surrounds the day while still focussing minds and hearts about what the to the streets of Hanley to raise awareness and day is about and raising funds for both Pride and Staffordshire Buddies. much needed funds for the charity. It was really The have also launched the monthly Carry on Quizzing Fundraiser great to see trustees and committee members alike hosted by Candy Fierce and held at The Swan Burslem each month throw themselves in to the fun and taking part. It with questions, picture rounds, music rounds, scrabble games, and really reminded us that this was what was sorely dingbats and so much more fun (See Christmas and New Year in lacking in previous incarnations of the charity Staffordshire or Whats On Scene Guide for more information pages 3 or where events and fundraisers were often held with 4). As well as the fundraising activities and events that will go on no trustees attending let alone taking part. There is throughout the year they are also working hard on Stoke on Trent Pride none of that with the new Stoke-on-Trent Pride 2015 with a new date set for 18th July but remaining in Northwood Park Charity every member of the trustees is willing to for the foreseeable future until the event outgrows the park. get involved and get active in the community The Team has also been listening to the community throwing themselves into it all. who told us the Pride Ball was to formal and put of But thats not all the team has been up to since August’s Stoke-on-Trent many from attending due to the costs. Therefore we Pride not at all they have been working hard to come up with new ways are currently working on a number of ideas to of fundraising, looking at revenue streams for funding and already introduce a more celebratory event which is less started planning next years event. While they are also looking at new formal in the sense of black ties and sit down and interesting ways to get the community active and involved in Pride dinners but still attractive to those which have including events to take us through the year to the big day which is sure attended the ball for numerous years while attracting to build on the success of the last Pride. other members of the community. As well as We caught up with Carl Gratty the Chair of the Stoke-on-Trent Pride designing something that is also more accessible on Trustee’s and Mikey Bonser the Treasurer to find out more who told us the pricing front and more attractive to younger more. The team have been working hard on a World Aids Day 80’s members of the community to get involved in so Night something that will get away from some of the bleakness that watch this space.

Want to Get Involved, have a Contributors story to tell, a passion for a Thanks to all that contributed to this issue PROUD NEWSLETTER to make it a success and special thanks to: Editorial Team specific subject or just a Gareth Fellows, Dannii Potts, Marc Quinlan Reardon-Garlick - Editor question for the community Richardson, Carl Gratty, Mike Bonser , Stoke on Trent Pride, Ollie Petrovic and Mark Garlick - Copy Editor groups. Then we need you Staffs Police. Email: [email protected] simply drop us a line and get Sponsors Facebook: PROUD Staffordshire Newsletter All Images are used with permission or are stock PROUD is a voluntary run community involved we want to make this images from google no copyright breach intended project if you know of a business willing a real community newsletter. to support the creation of an issue Next Issue please ask them to contact us. January 30th 2015