MacSwain Wins Portia White Prize by Jane Kansas

is a large colour picture of the smoking room poem. “It’s the most psychedelic collage poem of the Hindenburg3. On top of it there are two you could ever want to play with,” he says, photo cut-outs, which MacSwain has been laughing like demented bird. Then he was off manipulating frame by frame across the back- to Edmonton for a BFA in theatre. He special- ground: a large crab, which has been carrying ized in set design. the eponymous young light- He retired from the Cen- house keeper, who is modelled “I am so pleased tre For Art Tapes last year, and by Chris Spencer-Lowe, the now gets to work by nine in Production Co-ordinator of and proud to the morning. Stop-motion AFCOOP. MacSwain says the animation is very labour in- story takes place in a dream be queer!” tensive and the bright lights world. “This young lighthouse make the studio very hot, so keeper is sucked up into the Hindenburg. by two o’clock he is done for the day. “I love not There he meets famous people, like Lucrezia being at a job and just being an artist!” Borgia and Robespierre.” MacSwain pauses. MacSwain still living in the same huge “And Hitler.”4 fabulous Brunswick Street house he bought MacSwain received a Canada Council grant with other artists in 1973. “Cheap rent,” he says to make The Young Lighthouse Keeper, which with a tinkling laugh, “is like gold to an artist!” he hopes will screen at film festials in 2012; MacSwain likes having people around. “Oh the Portia White Prize5 comes with $25,000. yes!” he says when it is suggested that his house Seven thousand is famous.8 dollars of a Portia “And we’re White Prize goes to glam- a protégé; MacSwain ourous!” has chosen, through MacSwain the Visual Arts NS pauses. Mentorship Program, “Well, Crystal Melville. The within rea- rest of the money son.” goes to the winner, He has without strings. Mac- three boy- Swain has invested friends, most of it and is us- all living ing $3,000 to travel away, who to Vancouver in De- he visits cember for the launch as often as of his artist book, possible. an illustrated edition Andreas of Kubla Khan,6 and Guilbert Jim MacSwain in his garden. then maybe to Eng- lives in land in the spring. China and n a recent sunny afternoon the 2012 and teacher. He laughs and giggles all the time, Later MacSwain MacSwain winner of the Portia White Prize his voice climbing up and down the octaves of a is in a coffee shop, has been is walking down Sackville Street in mezzo-soprano. “Oh, yes!” he laughs, “I have a sitting over a mug of Robin Metcalfe and Jim at an anti-nuclear event, many, there three OHalifax, trilling some Samuel Taylor Coleridge. very effeminate voice! On the phone everybody black joe. He is 65 many moons ago. Photo by Anita Martinez. times. In Xanadu did Kubla Khan says, hello, ma’am!” MacSwain’s favourite verbal years old, tall, wearing silver metal glasses. His Andy Patterson is in Toronto and William Rowe A stately pleasure-dome decree: punctuation is the exclamation point. salt and pepper hair is swept back in a loose in New England. “That’s the way I like it!” says Where Alph, the sacred river, ran He and a visitor are headed for the Atlantic pony tail. He’s wearing a classic looking olive MacSwain. “That way I get to be independent Through caverns measureless to man Filmmakers Cooperative studio where he is sweater set and brownish corduroy pants and with The Gay Gang!” He and this clutch of Down to a sunless sea. working these days, inside the NSCAD Film talking about his early life. “Really,” he says, cronies meet for dinner and a movie and have And Jim MacSwain is indeed walking down School. Inside it’s a big enough room, with no “I am of that generation that went through a standing Sunday morning breakfast date at to a sunless sea, which is Halifax harbour. He windows and high ceilings. That’s perfect for the 1950s in a haze of innocence.” One of his Annie’s, a downtown cafe.9 is absolutely the opposite of sunless. MacSwain MacSwain’s needs; he is working on a stop- early works, Amherst, is about growing up gay. “I love being queer,” says MacSwain. “It’s has been a member of the queer community for motion animation called The Young Lighthouse MacSwain studied art at Mount Allison Uni- been part of my identity for forty years; I am decades, artist and artiste about town, and now Keeper. Windows would just let in unwanted, versity, and switched to english,7 whence came very comfortable. I am so pleased and proud he is the winner of the big Portia White Prize uncontrollable light and the high ceilings make his interest in Colridge’s opium influenced to be queer!” which recognizes the cultural and artistic excel- room for the 16mm Oxberry, a rostrum camera lence of a Nova Scotian who is a professional which moves up and down on a tall column.2 1 1 The prize is named for the singer who was born in ian family; Maximilien François Marie Isidore de artist. MacSwain is a photographer, program- On the table below the camera is the scene Mac- Truro in 1911 and taught school in Africville. Portia Robespierre was an influential figure in the French mer, collage artist, video and filmmaker, curator Swain has been working on. The background White became a world famous contralto, singing Revolution; Adolf Hitler was Chancellor of Ger- across Canada, the US and Europe. many from 1933 to 1945. 2 The Oxberry also can traverse across a painting. 5 He is not the first gay Portia White winner. There It takes one frame at a time. MacSwain will shoot has been at least one other: Walter Borden won the Regular Columns more than 16,000 frames, each one at a time, to prize in 2005. make this 12 minute film 6 MacSwain has collaborated with Jo Cook and Kubla 3 The Hindenburg was a zeppelin inflated with Khan is being published by Perro Verlag. Despite its Groups & Services 12 • Kibitz and Bitch 6 • NSRAP Report seven million cubic feet of highly flammable limited run of 21 copies, it costs only $30. 10 • Chef’s Corner 15 • The Sanctuary Garden 11 hydrogen gas; the smoking room was kept at a 7 With a minor in music! higher pressure to prevent hydrogen from entering. 8 The house is home to the annual Linda Joy Chowder Deadline for January-February issue: Friday, December 7 The Hindenburg was the first airliner to provide Brunch, part of the Atlantic Film Festival, as well (first Friday of every month!) [email protected] • On- regularly scheduled service between Europe and as other goings on. line: www.wayves.ca • Join us on Facebook: Wayves Maga- North America. It caught fire and was destroyed 9 The other members are Jeff Cowling, Robin Met- zine Rocks! at Lakehurst, New Jersey on May 6, 1937, after calfe, Chris Aucoin and Dave Gaskin. Apparently … and on Twitter: @WayvesMagazine arriving from Frankfurt, Germany. the other members have different names for the 4 Borgia was a member of a ruthless 15th C Ital- group. MacSwain did not share them. 2 — December 2011 — Wayves

DalOUT Thus Far November we’ve had a bake sale and Atlantic News DalOUT started off the year with a lecture from S. Bear Bergman for our Welcome Back BBQ, followed Trans Day of Remembrance. We still Manna & International by our Annual General Meeting and have some great events coming up! an awesome Venus Envy workshop on On Friday, December 2, we’ll have a Community Women’s Day how to talk dirty. October was a big coffee house at Just Us on Spring Gar- Christmas Dinner Mark your new Christmas calendar! month for us with our annual Come den Road in Halifax, so we can discuss Safe Harbour MCC is pleased to an- March 4 to 9, 2012 is the week of Out at the Grawood drag show for our up-coming events for next year. nounce that the Manna for Health the International Women’s Day all National Coming Out Day, a screen- Information for both of these events special needs food bank and the Rev around the world. Save those dates ing of Deep End, and our annual will be posted on our facebook page: Darlene Young Memorial Christmas because there will be a big list of Rocky Horror Picture Show event. In www.facebook.com/dalout. Dinner will be continuing under events for women and allies. the sponsorship of St John’s United This year is the 101st anniversary Valley Pride Halloween Dance Church. The transfer of these min- of IWD. Got a good idea for an event? istries will take effect on December Want to get involved? If so, contact 1, 2011. [email protected] or call Manna has been in operation for 902-429-9008. To see all articles of 15 years and is a unique, referral only, particular interest to the LGBT com- food program serving those living munity, including IWD, google for with HIV/AIDS and other life threat- “lesbian halifax events” and click on ening illnesses. Its mandate will not GayHalifax: Local Events. change under the St John’s umbrella. The Christmas Dinner will have its twentieth anniversary this De- cember, providing a free dinner to Another Georgia O’Keeffe calendar! You Truro Open House the Rainbow Community, its families shouldn’t have! The Northern AIDS Connection So- and friends...a true Christmas tradi- blue in support of the anti-bullying ciety is based in Truro, NS. Its annual tion. The Christmas Dinner will be awareness ribbon. Open House is Friday, December held December 17 at 6:00pm at St We would like to extend an invita- 9, from 1 to 4PM. Drop in to 33 Andrews United Church, the corner tion to your organization to take part Pleasant Street in Truro, or call (902) of Robie St and Coburg Rd. in Anti-Bullying Day this year, on 895-0931. Everyone is welcome to St John’s has been extending its Friday, December 16th, 2011, and tour the office and have some snacks. welcoming inclusive mandate to would ask that you please register on NACS began in 1996 as an ini- the Rainbow Community in a very our Website at: www.bullyingcanada. tiative from the Rural Development meaningful way. Its sponsorship of ca/content/247840. This will enter Conference hosted by the AIDS these two ministries clearly demon- your organization in to our internal Coalition of Nova Scotia. Al McNutt Valley Pride hosted a Halloween Doug, David, Steve, Mathew, strates its intention to not just “talk database. We will be in contact with realized that there was a great need for Dance on October 29th. There were Garry, Rob and everyone at Valley the talk” but to “walk the walk.” you in order to supply your organiza- education and awareness on HIV and 39 in attendance. We would like to Pride. Rev Linda Yates says, “We were very tion with resources and information AIDS issues in the community. thank everyone for their participa- moved to be asked to participate in about Anti-Bullying Day to assist you It serves the northern region of tion and coming out once more to these important ministries. It meant in taking part. Nova Scotia, specifically Pictou, celebrate Halloween with us. Even that Safe Harbour had confidence in If you would like more informa- Colchester, Cumberland and East with low attendance, we had a great our ability to live out God’s rainbow tion, please contact us by telephone Hants Counties. Many stong part- time dancing and socializing. The love. We hope to work alongside the at: 1-877-352-4497 or by e-mail at: nerships have been formed between next dance will be on December 3rd volunteers already in place in a true [email protected] the Society and other community which will be our Christmas Dance partnership.” Thank you, Rob Frenette & Katie groups such as Futureworx, the Nova and also the last dance of 2011. We take this opportunity to wish Neu, Executive Directors, Bullying- Scotia Agricultural College, Mainline We urge everyone to come out and St John’s every success with these two Canada Needle Exchange, Direction 180, celebrate the holiday season with us. important ministries. In addition, we John Howard Society Restoritive Thank you Again Everyone would ask for your support in dona- Male Call Canada Justice, local Transition Houses, Valley Pride would like to wish tions of funds, food items and volun- Youth Health Centres, plus schools, everyone a Very Happy and Safe teer time in ensuring their continued Male Call Canada is a national study teachers, physicians, and other health Holiday Season and the very best in success. The future looks great! of gay, bisexual and other men who care professionals. the year of 2012. have sex with men and their attitudes towards sexual health and well-being. Anti Bullying Day It’s an academic-community collabo- ration, the results of which will help to On Saturday, December 17, 2011, shape the development of community Time… the third annual Anti-Bullying Day health programs. All information is will take place across Canada. Anti- kept confidential. You can call, toll- Bullying Day is a day for raising free, (855) 846-6253 and participate to think about investing. awareness, increased support, and in the survey 11AM to 2AM AST providing education on the issue of Monday to Friday or 1PM to 9PM bullying to schools, workplaces, and on Saturday and Sunday. To find out It’s never too early, or too late, to start investing. communities across Canada, as well more, visit www.malecall.ca. as celebrate the efforts of those work- But what’s the best option for you and your lifestyle? ing to end bullying. That’s where a quali ed Investors Group Consultant Due to December 17th occurring on a Saturday this year, the days’ and The Plan™ , our unique, personalized approach to events have been moved to take place nancial planning, can help. A Consultant will advise on Friday, December 16th, 2011, so you on how to improve your saving and investment as to accommodate schools and busi- nesses that will be participating. Anti- habits and help you make the very most of your money. Bullying Day is a day where the color Blue can be worn in honour of the Call me to nd out more about how The Plan™ can Anti-Bullying Awareness ribbon in help you prosper now… and over time. support of those anti-bullying efforts that are taking place across country. BullyingCanada, Canada’s First Krista Snow Youth-Created Anti-Bullying Web- Consultant site, and a youth-driven organization is the creator behind December 17th’s (902) 457-3050 Anti-Bullying Day, as our website and organization were both co-founded krista.snow @investorsgroup.com FREE by Rob Frenette of Fredericton, Consultation New Brunswick and Katie Neu of Kitchener, Ontario, on this day back in 2006. Proud Member of the GLBT Community. Many organizations have decided to take a stand and put an end to bullying by inviting their staff to take part in Anti-Bullying Day and ™Trademarks owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations. MP1343 (10/2007) asking students to wear the colour Wayves ­— December 2011 — 3

Stephens Malone a simple act of kindness with tragic consequences. What will Williams’ next endeav- New Novel Big Town, Nimbus Publishing/Va- our be? Before he left for a vacation in Australia, he said, “I’m not sure by Jane Kansas grant Press, ISBN – 10:1551098547, at this point. Guess I’ll figure it out Big Town, the new novel about Af- $18.95. when I get back—or while I’m away. ricville by Stephens Gerard Malone, Nothing’s keeping me in Halifax.” has hit the bookstores and libraries; Wayves staff thanks John for the Wayves is thrilled—Malone is a five issues and for inspiring us go the New Trans Podcast extra mile as a result of what could by Gina Renee Bennett be considered friendly competition. The reason I started this project (and We wish you the best of luck in your yes, there will be a podcast portion future endeavours. too), is to bring together the transgen- der community and let you all share information freely. What I am looking for are submissions from you: advice, topics, music. You name it, I am look- ing for it. This project is by the people, for the people. Native “It Gets My name is Gina Bennett. I am Better” Video 27 years old and I will be your host/ As part of the Two-Spirit Gathering You can find it by searching You- guide on this journey of self. on the Labour Day Weekend (cov- Tube for “wabanaki alliance” or click- TransPortal was designed by the ered in the October and November ing on it in the full listing of locally people for the people in order to give Wayves) several people sat down with made It Gets Better videos, gay.hfxns. a bit more of a personal touch to free Jeremy Dutcher and taped heartfelt org/ItGetsBetter . flowing information. Some of the “It Gets Better” segments. Jeremy segments we have are listed below. We has edited the tape down to a seven- are always looking for ideas for new Parting Gaze former contributor who volunteered minute video in English, French, show segments. In the Fall 2011 Gaze Magazine for the magazine in the late 1990s. Mi’kmag, and Maliseet, with subtitles editorial, John Williams says, “this “It was shortly after I came out and News and Updates in English. issue of Gaze will be its last. While I was looking to connect with the Listeners can contribute new Tuma Young & Nick Honig, profit was never paramount among If you haven’t seen the magazine, community in a way besides the bar information from whichever area Terry Young, “Coco” Dean Pelletier, my concerns, generating enough ad Issue #5 should be on the stands for scene.” Malone did cutting, pasting they are from. Is something big go- Lynn Francis, Michael Dennis, Keith revenue to cover production costs the next few months. PDFs for all of and writing. “A little bit of every- ing down or you want to keep us Wilmot, and Allan “Chicky” Polchies remained crucial to the magazine’s the issues are available in the Halifax thing,” he says. informed about something we already appear in the video, filmed on the long-term existence. Regrettably, that LGBT Encyclopedia; google for “gay Malone now lives in the Hydros- know about? back deck of Liscombe Lodge on the goal remains unmet.” halifax gaze magazine.” tone area of Halifax with a big black Tips, Tricks and Advice Eastern Shore. chow, Chimo. On Remembrance If you’ve known something has Day, while it rains cats and dogs, helped you pass or has worked ex- Malone is on the phone laughing tremely well for you in the long run, get to share. It’s a place to vent and a Wayves about a soaking he and Chimo have let us know so we can pass it along. place for advice as well had. “I have a dog that smells like a Someone else might find it useful. You Final Thoughts Wayves exists to inform Atlantic Canadian lesbians, gay men, bisexuals wet car,” he says. can also give comments on previous Basically, it’s a segment for the and transgender people of activities in their communities, to promote When Malone first came to Nova letters with advice. host(s) to sum up final thoughts those activities and to support their aims and objectives. Scotia, in 1986, he knew nothing Letters and Feedback for the episode and possibly leave a about Africville. “I would hear about Got something you want to get off parting message. Just trying to tie up Wayves is an independent publication, published every month except it,” he says, “something about Ed- your chest? Want to write in and let us loose ends. February by a non-profit collective. Anyone who contributes to Wayves is die Carvery or the annual summer know what you think? Just general fan automatically considered to be a member of the collective and is welcome picnic, and I was curious.” When mail? Let us know! We want to hear it! to participate in all meetings and discussions. Wayves reserves the right to Malone asked his white co-workers Local Events Important refuse material that might be reasonably considered heterosexism, racism, about Africville, they dismissed it as If there is something going on in sexism or an attack on individuals or communities. Opinions expressed just a slum. But Malone couldn’t let your area, please let us know so we WAYVES Dates! go. “Things weren’t adding up for me. in Wayves are not necessarily those of the editorial collective. The article can advertise. Let us know the general Issue Content Deadlines: Fridays: There were parallels for me between submission deadlines are posted in the Important Wayves Dates section of area you’re from! Dec 2, Feb 3, Mar 2: that is, Africville and the town of the novel Partner’s Corner the first Friday of each month this page. Articles should be a maximum of 1,000 words and may be edited To Kill a Mockingbird—here was Partners of trans individuals are (skipping January.) You can send for length. Submissions should be emailed in plain text to the address below. another lovely place with a deep dark often told to “Shut up and support.” your news, ideas, comments, Articles and letters may be published with pseudonyms or anonymously, side that nobody wants to talk about.” Partner’s corner is a place on the criticisms, columns, cartoons and but Wayves must have contact information for the author. The copyright It scared Malone to tackle the podcast reserved specifically for the more to [email protected] subject of Africville and he struggled for all submissions remains the property of the original author/creator. partners of trans individuals, where any time! a long time before putting pen to Advertising: Jim Bain, Advertising Manager, email at [email protected] or they can write in and express thoughts Production Meetings (Halifax): paper. In Big Town it’s summer, 1963, and feelings they might not otherwise call 902.845.2059. Responsibility for errors in advertisements is limited and Early and Toby enjoy idyllic days Mondays: Dec 5, Feb 6, Mar 5; rafting on Bedford Basin, dreaming help decide what goes in the next to the value of the space. of blueberry pancakes and scavenging issue, 6:30 PM, Blowers St. Paper Circulation: use the email address below. Subscriptions, per year, are in Our Cover Chase, Halifax. All welcome, every for church doors in the nearby dump. Canadian dollars: $20 + 15% HST = $23 in Canada, $30 in the United City bulldozers begin levelling Jim MacSwain relaxes in his back yard. meeting. Photograph by Anita Martinez, cover States, and $35 elsewhere. Send cheque or money order to the postal Africville house by house and its Magazine Layout (Halifax): Dec design by Cam MacLeod. address below. residents are carted off in the back of 11, Feb 12, Mar 11: help build the garbage trucks. A rebellion leads to paper—no special skills required, Wayves just enthusiasm, and joining us P.O. Box 34090, Scotia Square Wayves On Line! even once, or for a few hours, Halifax, Nova Scotia Did you miss the last issue of Wayves? Or did your favourite distribution helps a LOT! 9:30 AM. Email us B3J 3S1 point run out of copies? Don’t fret! Now you can visit www.wayves. for location. [email protected] ca, and download the current issue, and the archives too! We have lots We're on the stands, in the mail, www.wayves.ca of back issues on line too. 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Randall Perry Jane Kansas … and … Want to tell your friends where to Atlantic Canada and around the Will Murray Ralph Higgins Blowers Street Paper get their own copy of Wayves? Your country. If there are none handy Anita Martinez Kirk Furlotte Chase for meeting first stop should be to www.wayves. to your home, write to submissi- Cam MacLeod Jim Bain space ca; you can download the current [email protected] and tell us where Daniel MacKay Nathan Adams Your Name Here! issue, a back issue, and also get the we should be! complete list of our distributors in 4 — December 2011 — Wayves

NL Youth Holiday educators, and persons affected and so that there’s enough for everyone the development of Affirming Con- World AIDS Day The LBGTQ Youth Group-St. John’s, infected with HIV. This free event will please RSVP to [email protected]. gregations. Participants are welcome Vigil Halifax Planned Parenthood, Newfoundland be held Thursday December 1, 2011 In January the group will meet from United Church backgrounds and Labrador Sexual Health Centre from 7pm to 9:30 pm at the Gonzaga back at its usual haunt—Spencer and other denominations, as well as and PFLAG Canada-St. John’s NL High School, St. John’s, NL. Please House, on Morris Street, where there’s those who may want to learn more Chapter will host a holiday gathering, see: www.acnl.net/beyondHIV/ for a full kitchen to heat snacks. It’s a about the Affirming Ministries move- open to everyone! It will be held on more details. very casual atmosphere—come as you ment (www.affirmunited.ca). Thursday December 15, 2011 from are. Past presentations have been on Tatamaguche Centre will offer 7 to 9pm in the Rocket Room at the legal and health issues, and included for the first time Building Bridges: Celebrate. Remember. Support. Rocket Bakery, 272 Water Street, St. Elderberries guests like a mystery author and long Inclusive Theology, Embodied Spir- John’s, NL. Every month a small group of, you distance walker. The potluck nibbles ituality (November 11 - 13), an event Thursday, December 1st, 2011 We invite everyone to join in know, mature Queers meets in Halifax include things like Church Lady for all who are seeking a faith and 7:00pm holiday spirit as gay, lesbian, bisexual, for a Sunday afternoon program and sandwiches, deviled eggs, pasta, salad, spirituality free of racism, sexism and transgender, transsexual, two-spirit, potluck. cookies, cake and coffee and tea are homophobia. All Are Welcome intersex, queer and questioning per- always on hand. Want to get notified You are invited to participate in Attendees are invited to bring along a non- perishable food bank donation in support of Manna For Health, a local food program sons, together with parents, friends of Elderberry news? Send an email this workshop with Rev. Irene Mon- whose purpose is to assist in meeting the special nutritional needs of people living with and family members. There will also to nselderberries@gmail and Lynn HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. roe, a dynamic and creative African

A Community Event sponsored by: be a performance by members of the Murphy will send you the monthly American feminist theologian and newly formed Spectrum Choir! Bring newsletter. gifted teacher. Irene served as pas- Halifax Marriott Waterfront – Acadia Room - 1919 Upper Water Street Halifax your best singing voice and join us The Elderberries Cocktail Party, tor of an African American church in a debut performance with a selec- December 18, 2 to 4PM, The Company before coming to Harvard Divinity World AIDS Day tion of carols and holiday favourites. House, 2202 Gottingen, Halifax, free; School. She was Coordinator of the Started in the fall of 2011, Spectrum January 22, 2 to 4PM, Spencer House, The World AIDS Day Vigil will be African American Roundtable of the is a welcoming ensemble where 5596 Morris Street, Halifax, free. held at Halifax Marriott Waterfront’s Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies members of the St John’s LGBTQ Acadia Room (1919 Upper Water St) in Religion and Ministry (CLGS) at community and their allies can join on December 17 at 7 p.m. the Pacific School of Religion. She together in a celebration of identity, Tatamagouche Attendees are invited to bring is a Huffington Post blogger and friendship, and community through along a non-perishable food bank Tatamagouche Centre is strongly syndicated religion columnist. She is choral music. donation in support of Manna For committed to offering programming profiled in O, Oprah Magazine, and Everyone is invited to come join Health, a local food program whose for the GLBTQ community. The cen- the Gay Pride Episode of “In the Life” the merriment! Refreshments will be purpose is to assist in meeting the tre offers programming in the areas of TV, and the film “For the Bible Tells served, and a few prizes will be given special nutritional needs of people social transformation; creative mind, Me So,” which explores the religious away! Happy Holidays to all! More living with HIV/AIDS and other body, spirit, and faith and spirituality. right’s stigmatizing of the gay com- information can be had by calling chronic illnesses. We are an Affirming Centre within munity. See www.irenemonroe.com. (709) 699-0509 or sending mail to This is a community event spon- the United Church of Canada. We She will be supported by a member [email protected]. sored by the AIDS Coalition of Nova Elderberries is a casual social group offer our hospitality to everyone, of the Tatamagouche Centre Program Scotia, Healing Our Nations Aborigi- for those 50 years old and older, (but work for the justice of all people and Resource Group, Amanda Reddick. nal AIDS Task Force and the Halifax nobody checks ID at the door—ei- joyfully affirm and celebrate human Amanda combines a background in Marriott Waterfront Hotel. St. John’s World ther a few younger folk attend or diversity in sexual orientation, ethnic- Peace and Conflict Studies with a passion for healing and building an Learn more at http://en.wikipedia. AIDS Day 2011 some Elderberries look remarkably ity, gender, ability, race, religion and org/wiki/World_AIDS_Day preserved), parented by the Nova age, regardless of economic situation. Afri-centric approach to counsellng In St. John’s, Eastern Health, in part- Scotia Rainbow Action Project. It In 2012 we are once again offer- and diversity work. She works at nership with Memorial University has an organizing committee of six ing the program, Create Affirming New Start as a counsellor with men and the AIDS Committee of New- people; the engine of Elderberries is Congregations (June 15 — 16), who have been abusive in intimate Frontrunners foundland and Labrador, is offering a Lynn Murphy. Murphy is a former This workshop is designed to help relationships. She works with black Halifax Frontrunners begins its six- day of professional education sessions Pride Committee chair and also was churches become more inclusive of youth groups through the African teenth year of running and walking from HIV Specialists and a Café Sci- a chair of GALA, the old Gay and people of all sexual orientations and United Baptist Association. together for fitness and companion- entifique event in the evening for the Lesbian Association. She says the gender orientations. The workshop For more information on this and ship. We have some folks who go general public. group grew out of an event hosted leader, Rev. Bob Johnson, has a depth all Tatamagouche Centre programs, all the way back to the founding of The First Annual Provincial Medi- by NSRAP which looked into the of practical experience in supporting go to www.tatacentre.ca. the group in 1994, as well as some cal Conference on HIV, You and your need of older members of the LGBT recent members from the corners of patient – beyond HIV, is a multi- community. “Two things really came the globe, including Scotland and disciplinary conference for healthcare out of that meeting,” says Murphy. Australia. As always, we’re eager for providers which will include sessions “One was support for LGBT elders new faces, and we can help people intended to reduce stigma, increase who are living in assisted care homes who are new to running, or who are HIV testing rates, reduce HIV trans- and the other was the need for a social getting back into it after a break. We mission and improve quality of life organization.” run a variety of distances and paces. In to those living with HIV/AIDS. The Elderberries event in Decem- addition to the weekly runs, we’re or- Presentations will educate healthcare ber is a little different than usual, but ganizing a team for the annual Cabot providers on how to improve care for after all, ‘tis the season. Instead of a Trail Relay, taking place next May. persons living with HIV and prevent talk or program followed by a pot- Two members ran the Edinburgh new HIV infections. The conference luck, it’s an afternoon cocktail party, marathon this past summer, another will be held Thursday December 1, at The Company House on Gottingen just returned from the Chicago mara- 2011 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Street, in Halifax. thon, and another is preparing for one the Health Sciences Centre Audito- Free snacks (both potluck and in Orlando in January (good idea!). rium , St John’s, NL. catered) will be provided by NSRAP; The rest of us content ourselves with The evening event, Going Viral: much shorter distances. Keeping HIV/AIDS on the Radar Our runs all begin at the main will provide a chance for the public gates of the Public Gardens, corner of to engage in dialogue about HIV/ South Park Street and Spring Garden AIDS issues with a panel of renowned Books and Road. Saturdays we start at 9:30am healthcare providers and research (walkers at 9am), and we meet for cof- experts, and people living with sex toy fee and conversation after the run; on HIV/AIDS. Issues related to HIV s Tuesdays and Thursdays runs begin at prevalence, transmission, treatment 6pm. We welcome new members as and stigma will be discussed. This well as visitors to the city. There is no session will be of interest to the gen- charge to anyone. eral public, including youth, parents, e! for everyon

1598 Barrington St, Halifax. 902-422-0004 to order: 1.877.370.9288 or www.venusenvy.ca Wayves ­— December 2011 — 5

Love and the Closet Door by Gerard Veldhoven

The queer world has made progress, without I informed him that my question. However, as we think back to the closet door opened many days when most of us were deeply entrenched years ago and that is how somewhere in a closeted situation from where it will be. I stopped see- there was no escape, we suddenly awake to the ing him immediately. I fact that this is 2011 and quite a number of us will skip to the present are now out and our sexual orientation becomes as it directly involves an- a normal, though at times a bit disconcerting, other closeted case that way of life. A number of us married, had chil- changed my life once more. dren and did the straight things expected of us. Five months ago I met a man during a wedding. Family dinners, perhaps church attendance and I will keep his name out of the limelight as it is not attending marriages, as we wondered if there up to me to “out” someone. I fail to understand would ever be a time when queers would get my reason for getting involved with another man Un sur Dix committee. the green light to do likewise. Of course, we so deeply in the closet, except to say I fell in love. certainly gained that a few years ago. I was soon informed he was not out to family and Un sur Dix The older generation to which I belong friends, but he was working to speak to them. Time Un sur Dix is a University of Moncton also shown the movies The Kids Are knows the closet very well. However, when I passed and he kept postponing his intentions. As association for LGBT and allies. Our Alright and Boys Don’t Cry. On married my wife in 1963 it seemed the “nor- time progressed, my feelings deepened and we mission is to ensure the well-being November 18, we helped organize mal” thing to do, as my brothers were anxious for me to move to of students and to end homophobia an all-ages jam night on campus had all tied the knot and I was “…falling in love his area, as he works and it would and heterosexism. We offer individual which ended with great tunes from expected to follow in their foot- simplify matters. He lives almost and group support, organize social our special guest and co-organizer, steps. I married a terrific lady and is the greatest joy two hours from Amherst and activities, offer awareness presenta- DJ Miss Sunshine. we became parents to two sons, the driving back and forth took tions and we help schools create their The executive members of the Un both born in the 1960s. There I in a committed its toll. We decided that I would own GSAs. Although our association sur Dix Association also helped other was in the closet, going through relationship.” rent an apartment for the time is based on campus, we offer our GSAs in high schools by providing the motions in a heterosexual being until he felt comfortable to services to everyone. awareness posters, resources and ori- life environment. At the time it seemed nor- come out of his terrible hiding place. His home also Since the beginning of the school entation. In October, three members mal to be in such a situation, as one manages needed to be changed around to accommodate my year, Un sur Dix has organized many participated at the provincial GSA to certain degree, even if it was against true furniture and other possessions. He even discussed activities and has many more to come. conference in St-Andrews organized feelings, because it was the “right” thing to do. where we would place paintings and things that I We began the fall session with aware- by Pride in Education. Remember that many of us married in order to brought from Holland as a teen. ness booths which allowed us to make During the winter session, we not be identified as a “fruit, fairy or queer.” We I packed furiously and called the movers. Eve- our association even more visible than will continue our monthly lunches had reason to be afraid and so we locked the rything was ready for my new apartment that I it already is--to raise awareness in the and presenting movies with LGBT door and stayed. had arranged with a deposit. The move would take LGBT community, on homophobia themes. In March 2012 we will have I do not wish to bother you with unneces- place on Monday, and on Friday previous I receive and to recruit to new members. Every our annual Sexual Diversity Aware- sary details, suffice to say, I suddenly decided a call in which he informs me that he is stressed year, more and more people from ness Week, when different activities to get out of the marriage. The year was 1974 about the move and people will talk if his car will the community show interest in our will be organized every day of that and around the same time I jumped out of that be seen at my place all the time, or my vehicle being association. week: a march on campus, group proverbial closet and soon thereafter came out parked in his driveway. I am totally shocked as he Once a month, we plan a lunch discussion, movie, etc. This year, we to my family and friends. To say it was easy told me he wanted to break off this relationship. where we offer free pizza and discuss will attempt to raise the pride flag would be amiss. The following few years were Love disappeared suddenly (or was it not there in informally different LGBT issues on campus. hell, as in those years it was uncommon to out the first place?), as the closet played a huge role in and the upcoming activities. We’ve oneself. Consequently, we went through a court his decision. I was devastated and had to rearrange system that discriminated beyond belief. At my future. Did I not see the writing on the wall? that point I was already living with my future Here I am still in Amherst, and the past few husband, Norman Carter. Many in my fam- days have been a time of reflection. Why did I fall ily, and some friends, suggested I should have in love with a man who was so deeply rooted in the remained silent. That was not an option for closet? The fact he was hiding his sexual orienta- me. Time heals many wounds and I decided tion should have warned me that this would not to be out there and somehow make an effort work. I have been out for 36 years and he was fully to normalize my queer existence—not easy in aware of my activism. I often wonder if it became a small conservative Nova Scotia town such as a challenge for him and finally he could not share Amherst. Here we have a gay couple in this his life with anyone of the same sex, unless it was border town daring to set up housekeeping. On a hidden relationship. I also question his reac- top of that, Norman’s two young daughters were tion if I were to be interviewed on TV, which has also part of this newly formed queer family. My happened a number of times, and his family and visitation rights were severely limited by an old friends were watching, what then? They know my judge who was glaring at me throughout the name and they realize I am his friend, but what hearing. However, the boys would sometimes kind of friend? Would he explain that we are lovers sneak after school and come for a visit. I finally in a committed relationship? I think not and that came to terms with the fact that the closet is an is when we realize the closet door is shut tight and isolated place. perhaps will never open. It is not usual for queers The closet was now empty in our house. at middle age to step forward and come out and Both Norman and I relished the fact we were be proud of who they are. Of course, the other a new type of family. My oldest son came out point may be that hiding in a closet will also be when he departed for Queen’s University. He a deterrent to commit to someone you love and was troubled about coming out as he “didn’t simply cannot make it public. How sad. Another want to hurt his mother like Dad.” So the reality is the fact I still love this man. Go figure! whole process is decidedly difficult, and each of I have concluded that falling in love is the us must deal with it in our own way, but deal greatest joy in a committed relationship. If a rela- with it we must. tionship consists of one person in the closet, then Norman died January 4, 2010 and life took the likelihood of that partnership lasting will be a drastic turn. In time I began dating again, and minimal at best. Time spent with each other will I met a man from Toronto who has a summer develop a strong bond that must be shared entirely. place in Nova Scotia. He invited me to spend A closeted person does not possess the willingness, time with him and talk of romance and all the or the courage, to fully commit to the relationship, goodies attached. Soon after he informs me he as the persons involved will never really share is in the closet and he just came out of a rela- families, friends and all the other ingredients that tionship. This was a pure lie. He just wanted a make for a lasting and loving existence. fling with someone in this area for the summer. I love Sir Elton John’s quote: “I wish more of I had a rainbow plate on the front of my car that my queer brothers and sisters would come out. It he wanted me to remove. I refused and I told is really nice out here.” him I will not give in to any of his demands. 6 — December 2011 — Wayves St. John’s Pride Inc. by Jennifer MacCreath There have been many stories re- we had permits paid for two marquee ported in mainstream media about events on city property– picnic and the monetary value of incorporation. parade; we also purchased wholesale Hey Tom, Well, don’t believe everything you pride merchandise that we were able Well, it had to happen. The last of my birds fell tive? I don’t know, I struggle with it every year. I read (except the following true facts, to offer at only a slight mark-up. off the perch last weekend. Funny, how even just think there is a difference between tradition which I am sharing here candidly Most importantly, although we had though I complained endlessly about the mess and religious observance. and openly). to address a few last-minute crises, around the cage and how I was always ambivalent The other day when I was at the Laundromat… Pride Inc. was behind the eight- we had our logistics sorted out so that about birds in cages anyway, I felt kind of a pang (Did I tell you about when I recently accidentally ball as we got closer to summer. people and materials were at the right when I saw her stiff little corpse lying amidst the stole the briefs of a cute student from Sweden? After assembling a team of directors, place at the right time to oversee all shredded paper and birdy gravel. Funny thing Funny how no matter how many times I’ve washed officers and other volunteers, we Pride events. about birds eating gravel, isn’t it? I mean do you them they have retained a distinctive …uh, shape.) were strong on enthusiasm but weak The biggest disappointment was think when birds have pot lucks somebody says, Anyway, there I was half dizzy from detergent and on money. We (and specifically I), a partnership event we had with “Hey, I’ll bring the small rocks, if you bring the Oxyclean fumes and cursing myself for leaving this spent several hours Yuk Yuks Comedy millet?” As much as I dislike going to the dentist chore too long so that I end up doing 5 loads of for several weeks, Club. This event I think I prefer teeth to grinding up my food in wash instead of a couple of quickly finished ones, engaging identi- “After assembling was geared toward my craw with sand. However, I’m off topic—not when my eye lit on the small tree with tiny lights fied stakeholders in being a Pride fund- for the first time as I’m sure you will point out. on a table in the corner, over by the faded green hopes to both col- a team of directors, raiser, which would My point is that time marches forward whether and red tinsel along the bottom of the windowsill. laborate on events, bring in additional we feel ready to accept the changes or not. When And I wondered at the impulse that the owner and seek small dona- officers and other revenue through I arrived home at the end of the day there used to or manager felt to put up this bit of, admittedly tions. volunteers, we ticket sales, so that be a little live thing hopping about, chirping and shoddy, decoration. Why bother? I asked myself. By the time Pride additional free all- greeting my arrival. Now she has joined the others Here under the glare of neon lights, amid the noise week had conclud- were strong on ages events could be singing on some other plane of existence—heav- of washer agitators and rumble of dryer drums, ed, we managed to presented as part of enly or not—and the memory of that doesn’t get what is the incentive, I wondered. There is no com- do a great job of lim- enthusiasm but pride week. Sadly, vacuumed up like the spilled seed on the carpet. mercial gain—no one does extra holiday laundry, iting our expenses to weak on money.” three months later, Speaking of singing, our Christmas concert there is no specially priced Christmas detergent, no $2,686.60. Sadly, not one cent has was a lovely success—or at least it will have been offer to donate 25¢ from the price of every duvet we had no income been received from by the time you get this letter. One hates to use washed in the heavy duty machine. No, it was at the time, and no corporate line of Yuk Yuks, and the Pride Board is the word “triumph” yet there are times when it just there, a tiny fake tree with cheap tinsel and credit. So it was I who put all of this currently undergoing discussions to is appropriate. The other day when I was put- decorations and yet it made me smile. Someone on my personal credit card. I did so determine how to resolve this breach ting up posters and spreading the word online had chosen to add a bit of cheer to a rather dreary knowing that it may take the com- of trust. Legal action may be the end via various social networks, someone remarked, workplace, to create a spot of brightness in honour pany weeks, or maybe even months, result. “Wow, you are calling it a Christmas concert, very of the season. I think of that little, weirdly happy to pay me back. I did so knowing Bottom line, as the company sits brave!” and I thought, when did calling a concert tree quite often when I’m listening to radio reports that I may never get it all back. This now, we are essentially in a break-even of music about the birth of Christ a Christmas of Christmas creep, and discussions of commercial is how badly and how strongly I was position. The organisation has paid concert become an act of defiance? I mean, it is greed and the lack of soul in Christmas. I remember committed to making sure we had a me back most of my loan to them, hardly up there with the Occupy Washington that little tree missing some of its lights, and of the Pride Week that met the identified and will pay the rest upon resolution folks! Now, you know me, Tom, I wear a button faces of the people who smile listening to Christmas wants and needs of our recognized of the city grant paperwork. While that says Happy Pagan Holidays and I disagree concerts and of the anonymous Christmas card I stakeholders. I have made it clear that I will not with lots of Christian dogma but when you are sent to the Swedish student, and I feel content. And As the week progressed, we gained ask myself or any other individual to talking star in the east, birth in a stable, angels this year I think of the birds who lived with me momentum. Union reps jumped on loan money to Pride, I will make one and shepherds etc., calling it a seasonal or holiday for so many years peeping along with the chorus, board with cash donations (thank you exception for legal fees, if necessary. musical evening seems just silly. I don’t consider cocking their heads to one side and saying, “you CUPE, PSCA, NLFL and Council of The next step for Pride Inc is to myself a Christian, but it is clear to me that this call that a C sharp?” Canadians, and small local businesses finalise our annual report, and make is a Christian festival. Have we become so afraid So, schmaltzy as it may seem, Tom, Merry jumped on board with gift certificate it available publicly, as we always said of offending anyone that we water down every Christmas! donations (see our website for the we would. We will also then look to celebration to an innocuous and boring pablum amazing long list: stjohnspride.org). putting together a membership pro- rather than a celebratory feast? I thought the The city also approved a Festival gram so that we can actually recognise whole point was to make sure everyone felt Grant. We were also able to avoid members through a set of established included. I’m not insulted when someone says costs by forming partnerships with criteria, that will allow us to form Merry Christmas to me. Nor am I if someone says other organisations who were will- the basis of a corporate governance Happy Chanukah or Happy Kwanzaa. I can sing ing to finance events and even take structure. Members in good standing my musical heart out, like my recently departed steps to ensure that Pride Inc risked will have a direct opportunity to vote bird, in a Christmas concert and also joyfully no liability. in key decisions and take ownership attend a Winter Solstice bonfire and feel glad to In total, we were able to provide of the work that continues to need to participate in both. Does that make me insensi- free transportation for the general be done. Stay tuned! public to attend the two events that Jennifer McCreath is head of Cor- took place out of town; we had free porate Management for St. John’s Pride food available and the parade BBQ; Inc.

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At the top of Duke Street, near Brunswick, Halifax, 1992. Jane Kansas identified the person in the middle, holding the “Sec State” sign, as Jane Allen; Ross Boutilier identified the person the 2nd from the right as Tuma Young. Bethan Lloyd Morrell writes: This was taken in front of Secretary of State offices in Halifax; people were protesting the then Liberal Government’s cuts to women’s organizations. They spent as much or more on balloons for Canada Day celebrations. Yes, that’s Jane Allen looking wistfully into the distance. Beside her with glasses Tuma Young and myself at far right. Deborah Trask writes: Funding for Women’s Centres was cut; I was already living on the South Shore by then, and on the board of my local women’s centre. The woman 3rd from left , holding the “Make the gov’t pay” sign, is Mary Ann Mancini and the one on the far right with the sun in her glasses is Betty Ann Lloyd. The event may have been written up in the WHEN newsletter, Vitality. Mary Ann Mancini writes: Tuma [Young] and I were walking along and came across the protest and of course had to join in. Tuma says: “Yup that is me, second from right. Jane Allen is next to me and then Mary Ann Mancini. Mary Ann is right, we were walking along and joined the protest. Typical Cape Bretoner: see a picket line and join in. This photo was also published in Pandora. Marriage is Bliss! by Gerry Fowlow My husband and I were married in Moncton, where we live, on April 11, 2008. We had a small wedding and we had our reception at Triangles. I had asked the owners, Stella and Evie how much they would charge me for the use of the bar. "Nothing!" they said. Although we were the first to have a wedding reception at Triangles, it was beautifully set up, thanks to Norma, our wedding planner. …continued on page 14

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cell 209-7073 www.rosiep.ca 8 — December 2011 — Wayves Gays & Gambling: Four Times The Risk On November 15, a couple dozen events, and people filling out a survey warranted, that is, a needs people gathered in the big theatre at online. 104 surveys were done at the assessment study. the QEII Health Sciences Centre to Halifax and Sydney Pride events, About half of the resond- hear the results of a study on problem and 125 were completed online. ents answered yes or were gambling in the queer community. Sheddon said, “The community had unsure, to whether they Many of you have seen, over the a stronger response on line than in know someone who has had last six months, ads in Wayves and person. People are quite comfortable a problem gambling; 80% elsewhere, and researchers approach- doing online responses. However this indicated that they wanted ing you at Pride Events, requests to is partly because there are so many more information. participate in a study about gambling other things going on at Pride events.” In the open-ended ques- in the rainbow community. All surveys collect demographics, tions part of the survey, The study was largely funded by and this one was no exception; there respondents wrote that they Gambling Awareness Nova Scotia, the were about equal male and female develop personal friend- not-for-profit arms-length organiza- participants with 2% identifying as ships with other players, that they times someone responded on line? for example, a Masters student in tion which supports an independent transgender and 1% as queer, and had friends who developed problem A: It was limited to three responses the Dal School of Health & Human response to gambling harm. 1% as “none of the above.” 43% gambling when they were single and from each IP number; there were at performance. There’s a need for it, for James Shedden introduced the identified as gay, 21% as lesbian, 16% in the closet, and that how little most two duplicates. sure. It seems that people are open to findings as, “innovative work; this bisexual, 4% queer, and, oddly, 16% problem gambling is talked about. Q: Is addictions services doing talking about it. Patrick: It’s impor- anything to improve the marketing tant to show that there s a need for What Gambling Products do you use? of their services? A: We’re already it. We’d love to pass “our baby” on to making some changes; since the someone to continue the work. The new year all staff have gone through gay men and alcohol project showed sensitivity training and have gotten that there was some particular issues Monthly an “Ally” card and because of that the should be addressed in the LGBT training, we’re now placing rainbow communities. I don’t think we talk Weekly stickers on the doors to Addictions about substance use and addiction Daily Services. Shedden said, “I hope enough in our community. that this will open the door to more Q: Are you planning to publish? openness to outreach to the rainbow We’ve started a contact tree and will

Responses 1-­‐50 Responses community.” be sending the report out to that. Q: How did you response rate We’d like to have an easily down- align with your expectations? We loadable version, a pocket version, didn’t really have any expectations. and a video version on YouTube as The Nova Scotia study surveyed 1500 well. Audience member: I think this homes, and traditional models are research brings a lot more questions 10% of the population, so if we get than it does answers. It should call 150 responses, we were doing pretty into action some qualitative research well. The fact that we got 229 re- regarding the rainbow community. sponses speaks well to me, and shows Although this is not scientifically an interest in the LGBT community validated, it is fairly representative to tell their stories. of the population, and a number of gambling research has not been done as straight / heterosexual. Most of the One person questioned the need for Q: Are there any plans afoot to things stand out to me. We know anywhere else in the world and it has participants were between 25 and 44 a specific LGBT related gambling conduct that next step off research? that this is a highly stigmatized topic, generated some international atten- years old. 72% of respondents lived response. A: There is an opportunity to apply and if there is a higher proportion of tion.” Shedden said when he applied in community of more than 10,000 for a research grant to take this work people experiencing gambling related to the next level, something that harm, for that many people to come for the job he thought, “I got to *go* respondents; what is more interesting Questions from the audience would be appropriate for peer review, to pride events and get paid for it!” that 28% lived in more or less rural Q: How did you control many …continued on page 11 The study was overseen by settings. 82% reported their health as OUT!Alive, an alliance of citizens “excellent” or “good.” concerned about drug, alcohol, Unlike most studies, this one iden- …continued on page 11 tobacco and gambling issues within tifies charity gambling (raffles, bingo, the LGBT community. The group is and 50/50 tickets) as gambling, and a volunteer committee of Addiction about 50% of the respondents report- Prevention & Treatment Services, ed doing it; 18% play on non-money and for this project partnered with social gambling sites, and about the Gambling Awareness Nova Scotia, same number use online “practice” Addiction Prevention and Treatment gambling sites; see the accompanying Services, Pride Health - Capital graph for details. 70% did not know Health/IWK, The Youth Project, of any support services for problem Halifax Pride Society, Nova Scotia gambling. Rainbow Action Project and the One of the main findings was that Halifax Sexual Health Centre. The a far greater fraction of the rainbow group has been around for four years. community scored as a potential The citizens’ panel for this study problem gambler. In a similar study contained some well-known Halifax in the general population, 6% of figures: Rick Anderson, Angus Camp- the respondents scored as potential bell, Norval Collins, Patrick Daigle, problems; in the rainbow community Sheena Jamieson, Anita Keeping and study this number was 25%. Liz McQuaid. Several of the presenters empha- The data for the study was col- sized that this is not a scientific study, lected during the summer of 2011 and that the main purpose was to from face-to-face interviews at Pride determine whether further action was Wayves ­— December 2011 — 9

ence in web design and social media; Prostate Cancer there are others with leadership and business experience and others bring Support Group an incredible amount of creativity and the group for their “achievements volunteer experience with them,” says thus far.” Snow. “It’s a wonderful board this year The next meeting of the Halifax and we’re already really gelled into a Rainbow Warriors will take place at great team. I do want to thank all the Prostate Cancer Canada Atlantic board members over the previous 25 resource centre, Wednesday, Decem- years who have laid the foundation of Canada’s first Prostate Cancer Sup- ber 14th at 7 pm at 5121 Sackville a great festival.” port Group for gay men was officially Street; Suite 101. The 2012 PRIDE Halifax Board launched in Halifax Wednesday, No- About Prostate Cancer members are: Krista Snow, Chair; Eric vember 16th. Prostate cancer is the most com- Sangster, Vice Chair; Claudia Legg, The meeting of the Halifax Rain- mon cancer to afflict Canadian men. Treasurer; Adam Noble, Secretary; bow Warriors took place at Prostate 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with the Susan Sangster, Beverage Coordina- Cancer Canada Atlantic’s Resource disease in their lifetime. Early detec- tor; Tamarra Vivian,Volunteer Co- Centre at 5121 Sackville Street in tion is key as over 90% of prostate ordinator; Kathy Walsh, Site Coor- downtown Halifax. The centre pro- cancer cases are curable if detected dinator; Marion Steele, Sponsorship vided a comfortable and confidential and treated in their earliest stages. As Coordinator; Adam Reid,Queer Acts setting where personal experiences of age 40, Prostate Cancer Canada Eric Sangster and Krista Snow. Festival Coordinator; Paul Forrest, were shared and participants dis- recommends men begin the discus- Parade Coordinator; Tami Mitchell, cussed the many challenges related sion with their doctors about their Halifax Pride’s New Board Web Design Coordinator; Blair prostate cancer risk. Men should have Chapman, Marketing/Graphic De- to prostate cancer. by Krista Snow, Chair, Halifax Pride 2012 Support group coordinator Rob a baseline prostate specific antigen sign Coordinator; Jenna Nelson, Mer- Isbister and PCC Atlantic Director (PSA) test at age 40 and every 5 years The newly elected Pride Halifax board festival. “We have two members who chandise Coordinator; Ken Murray, Peter Mallette are calling the launch afterward. At age 50, men should is already in full gear, preparing the both were chairs in Ontario; we have Entertainment Coordinator; Frank of the gay men’s support group a begin annual PSA testing along with biggest PRIDE festival that the Mari- two members with extensive experi- Bezanson, Fundraising Coordinator. success. a digital rectal examination (DRE). times have seen. “We are changing the face of men’s About Prostate Cancer Canada “We’re excited to get moving,” says health care in Atlantic Canada,” said Prostate Cancer Canada is the only the board’s new chair, Krista Snow. Mallette. “To be able to provide a national foundation dedicated to the “2012 will be a huge celebration—a forum for discussion for gay men elimination of this disease through celebration of 25 years proud!” around this disease is an accomplish- research, education and awareness. The board has already had over 24 ment we are very proud of. As a Prostate Cancer Canada raises funds hours of meetings since being elected health organization, we believe it is for the development of programs re- in October, and is preparing for the imperative to reach diverse commu- lated to awareness, public education, silver anniversary. Members are being nities and the launch of the Halifax advocacy, support of the afflicted and very closed mouthed about details of Rainbow Warriors was a step for us research into the prevention, detec- 2012 PRIDE Halifax. “We don’t want in that direction.” tion, treatment and cure of prostate to spoil the fun by letting everyone The group received letters of con- cancer. For more information visit know what we’re planning,” says gratulations from Toronto MP Olivia prostatecancer.ca or visit prostatecan- Eric Sangster, Vice-Chair. “We can Chow, PCC President & CEO Steve cernetwork.ca tell you that it’s going to be a Pride Jones and PCC Chief Operating Of- Celebration that will be spoken of for ficer Helene Vassos. some time!” Chow’s letter acknowledged the The 2012 PRIDE Halifax Board good work being done at Prostate members bring a diverse skillset to Cancer Canada and commended the planning and execution for the

    10 — December 2011 — Wayves So You’re Single—You Don’t Have To Be Lonely NSRAP Report by Bill McKinnon on the bars with their cliques and Religion, Christmas and Queer Inclusion Last fall, Elderberries, the LGBT emphasis on youth and glamour. Elders group, met at Spencer House What I need can be found in many by Linda Yates is all so very, very counter to what the actual nativ- in Halifax and discussed being sin- social settings if I keep active, take an In the late 80’s, I was working as a laboratory tech- ity story was meant to reveal by its early writers. In gle. The following questions and interest in others and get involved. nologist in an Infectious Disease Research Lab. I was Luke, subversive activity begins with the concep- answers are a composite of some of Good examples include churches fortunate to be able to work with several gay sum- tion. The shamefully knocked-up-before-marriage the thoughts expressed. such as Safe Harbour, sports, bridge mer medical students who I helped train for their Mary breaks out into a song so radical in its under- Q: Why do we become or remain clubs, karaoke, continuing education, lab lab-based research projects. A laboratory is the standing of the reordering of the world against op- unattached? writing groups, and gay and lesbian one of the most confined and restricted of working pression that it was the one scripture reading banned A: Sometimes we believe we are organizations such as Elderberries. If spaces, where people work side by side all day long. from south South American pulpits by oppressive the only one like us on the planet and I become involved in volunteering, It can be a place of great intimacy and friendship regimes. So earthy and aligned with the 99% is remain or become a loner. Perhaps for example at Northwood, I soon building—or the setting for terribly dysfunctional Luke’s baby Jesus, that he is greeted by shepherds, our partner died. It’s more difficult realize that feeling sorry for myself is unfolding relationships. Luckily, for me, I got to the modern day status equivalent of carnival work- to get into a relationship as we get silly when so many are much worse know some incred- ers. They are the older. Perhaps we choose not to share off than I am. There are some amazing ible people very well. chosen few who an- our lives with another person since people out there whom I can easily get One of these told nounce to the con- relationships are okay but they require to know. Sometimes I take myself too me about being gay “‘Tell them,’ I said. ‘They are fused young mother, a lot of give and take. Perhaps we are seriously and one secret to making within a conserva- that her child is the alone but not lonely. Some say that new friends is to lighten up. tively religious fam- your parents. They have to love Messiah. Matthew’s there is an LGBT lifestyle and maybe Q: What else can single people ily. He was going you. It is a rule for Christians.’ gospel provides his there is also a singles’ lifestyle. do without a partner? home for Christmas baby Jesus with a Q: What are the disadvantages A: The possibilities are endless but and longed to tell He told them on Christmas Day genealogy that in- of flying solo? here are a few: travel, photography, them the truth. I was cludes four women, A: Life can be more difficult, cross-stitching, model cars, antique in my late twenties and they kicked him out.” two of whom were especially as you become older and cars, art and antiques, cooking, at the time and had sex workers. The perhaps have limited income. You growing herbs, motorcycling, skiing, a close relationship other two had sexual may become isolated (especially if you part-time work and writing a book. with my parents. “Tell them,” I said. “They are histories definitely not approved of in their day. are LGBT) or can’t get out to social Furthermore, all of these hobbies can your parents. They have to love you. It is a rule for So, what are the writers trying to say here about events. You might also become invis- involve socializing and, though you Christians.” He told them on Christmas Day and whom it is that God favours? Oh, and Mary being ible to others as you age—especially could, why do them in isolation? they kicked him out. He wandered the streets trying a life life-long virgin? I don’t buy it. Why would if you have mobility issues. Spending Q: What does the future hold for to find some acquaintance to take him in. When he Matthew’s angel tell Joseph, Jesus’ step-dad, not to too much time alone sitting in the older LGBT loners? told me his story later that year, I was mortified for have sex with her until after she had the baby? Come house with no one else there for you A: Well some things do become all kinds of reasons. I cried. And I learned. on. Certainly, white, blonde, Anglo and sexually can lead to trouble. more difficult as we age but we do When I became a minister within the United “well behaved” people have no place in the biblical Q: How does our society see not have to give up. We can take ac- Church in 1999, activism around queer inclusion story—no matter what your religious relatives try singles? tion. Seemingly there are no openly became an integral part of what I understand to be to tell you. A: Singles are the most unrecog- LGBT’s at Northwood and other the call of all Christians. Later, when my son told us It all comes down to incarnation. The idea of nized group and nobody stands up seniors’ residences but that is going he was gay, that call became personally significant. God embodied; that the proper place for a real God for them. They pay the most taxes to change once the baby boomers Quite frankly, it still blows my mind that any parent is found in that most vulnerable of human beings— and receive the fewest benefits. With start moving in. We will, of course, (especially “Christian” ones) can turf their kid out a tiny, blood stained child, laid in lice-infested hay, the recent emphasis on gay marriage, lose friends to death as time passes on Christmas Day for any reason, let alone coming staring up at his joyful, heart broken, homeless some are made to feel like failures. and that will be sad, but it is part of out. Unfortunately, I know it happens all too often. Mom. She knows he is headed for some hard things. Some people believe one should be life and somehow we will cope. Life So there is pain at Christmas for many in the He is Immanuel, “God-with-us.” sad if one is alone, or not with that does not have to suck, even if we are queer community. Incidence of bad family behavior What the incarnation means for Christians is certain someone, on New Year’s Eve a single and old as well, for it’s not tends to rise at this time of year anyway. It is a time that God is incarnate in everyone who has a body or Valentine’s Day. just for potentially suicidal teenagers when people who normally don’t all live together too. We are blessed with a the variety of God intend- Q: Can I be a loner but not to which the promise, “It gets better,” gather under the same roof, a lot of liquor flows, ed, incarnate diversity—which includes orientation, alone? applies. unresolved issues are raised and money is in shorter gender and an incredible array of physical attributes. A: As a single I can reach out This is only a synopsis, for you had supply than normal. For this these reasons and No one can take the incarnation from you, no mat- to the world and many of us have to be there to better appreciate the more, the average person has complicated memories ter what they say. That is the real Christmas message. lots of friends. Being single doesn’t sharing which took place; so make about Christmas. For queer folk, there is the added So, at this time of year when the layers of memo- mean I don’t have friends. If I join sure you come to the next Elderber- burden of relationships not claimed (or claimed ries, expectations and relationship burdens begin to just about any group there will likely ries Meeting and get to know some and rejected); relationships that have ended that oppress you, be kind to yourself. Find some quiet be gays there. I do not have to rely wonderful people. do not have family permission to be mourned; and time. Seek out a place of worship. Know that you unspoken or spoken classification of who is “really” are loveable and loved and embodied. Give thanks History of Live and Let Live AA Group family. Slather over all of this mix a seasonal extra and in gratitude, share that with someone else. dose of religious imagery and language, and you Linda Yates is a United Church minister serving by Mike A. Black St. named Radclyffe Hall. That have the recipe for some extra helpings of oppres- St. John’s United Church. Her areas of interest include Halifax has an Acoholics Anonymous building was sold and we moved sion and depression. sexual rights and death education. She is a candidate group created by and for the LGBT again. The thing that makes me want to scream is that it of a Doctorate of Ministry. [email protected]. community: Live and Let Live began In the late 1980s the meeting meeting in about 1980 in a room moved to the Field House on the upstairs at Hope Cottage. The meet- Common. This location is well re- ing was sponsored by Father Mike membered by many because of the MacDonald, but folded due to lack difficulty they had in finding it. One of participation. new member slipped on the ice out- In the spring of 1982 two new side the Field House and fractured his members to AA, Robert B. and J.J.L., arm. He lost time from work and had decided the meeting should be re- to sue the city for lost wages. started and had their first meeting on We then moved to the basement April 23 of that year. The first year’s of St. Mary’s Basilica and were there meetings varied in size from three to for a number of years. On occasion ten people and took place in a num- we had a meeting where those who ber of locations including members’ were gay were outnumbered by those living rooms. During the early years who were not. I mentioned this one we occasionally had a brunch at a night and a man from New Jersey member’s home and there was a great said, “Turnabout is fair play!” We sense of community that a lot of us met at this location for several years had not felt elsewhere. until construction caused us to seek a In October of 1984 a few members new location at St. Matthew’s United went to the Gratitude Roundup in on the other side of Barrington St. Toronto. One member was floored about 2004. to discover Gay Al-Anon. People Over the years there have been who were actually willing to stick people who came to Live and Let with a gay alcoholic while he worked Live who told us that they found AA through his problem. The Roundup in general overwhelming or unwel- was large and showed us that gay coming. However, they stayed with people could come together and put AA because our meeting seemed on a meaningful gathering. friendly and caring and eventually From 1985 to 1987 we met at they became strong enough to go to a house which the GAE owned on other meetings. Wayves ­— December 2011 — 11 Gambling The Sanctuary Garden continued from page 8 by Bethana Sullivan forward and admit it, suggests that there are a lot more who do not come forward. And if they’re experiencing harm, why don’t they A Room Of My come forward and get some help with it? I’m excited by this study, Own I think it’s a very important study. Q: You reference the gambling I lit a first fire in my new Aspen woodstove in my Maybe turning sixty problem as being one component first ever ‘only mine’ room. In times past I have had had something to of risk-taking behaviour. If you many rooms as a single tenant in one bedroom apart- do with it as I woke go into further studies, will you ments. This is a room of my own in a house shared up to the reality of be looking at the interactions be- Response: the corporate interests by my lover and partner. I feel so privileged and a mortality. In the tween alcohol, drugs, nicotine, and that provide these substances and friend even reminded me of this privilege when first years before 60 I had gambling? Or, would you isolate it? behaviours are very much aware of viewing the ‘room’, a little to my chagrin. It is one grown from a wild I think there’s been a lot of studies the things that make our community thing to say it yourself, voiced by another tends to and shy girl fighting for a life to a woman battling done on the other behaviours; it’s not vulnerable or susceptible -- but they’re rub the wrong way. for freedom, for fairness, for equality and the right that they’re not linked, but there are a not willing to share. Sheddon: the This room, average size, carries with it a multitude to exist for all. Notice the language of war! In my lot of studies on it. All of the elements corporate cornering of the LGBT of dreams and hopes. When Linda said, “and now life there are cycles of birth, death and rebirth, include homophobia, transphobia, community over the last 20 years is you have a place for your sewing machine,” (desk, happening about every 7-8 years. The beginning social networking, peer pressure, and obvious. Response: for example, the writing table, drawing board, dreamer’s couch, read- of a cycle is characterized by energy, new ideas, other factors; it’s possible that these sponsoring of the Pride events by ing chair, etc, etc) I said enough is enough. I will be passion and action; the end heralds in apathy, sad- are also influencing gambling in the alcohol corporations. frozen with anxiety amidst all the expectations of ness, a sense of pernicious anxiety and a restlessness rainbow community. The purpose of Q: What about the respondents who what will be produced though the beginning this study was to find out if this is a identified as heterosexual? Do you think within these four “Is it no wonder to see those and ending are not problem, and it looks like it is. One they are going to the gay bar to use the walls. What I long for quite as well defined other question is, is gambling similar VLTs? A big fraction of those are prob- most is space, time pernicious earplugs defining as this sounds like. to the substance addiction? Or is it ably trans, and identify as straight. and quiet, the luxury At either end I would different? Another question is, how Some comments showed that people and the necessity of a space or to have empty and begin to recognize the does LGBT culture support sub- were in the straight community but listening for what vacuous constant communication pattern and once I stance abuse and related behaviours? had some connection to the gay com- needs to be heard. did the door opened It doesn’t make sense that a highly munity. [A closeted or shy person] can In today’s world in an attempt to ward off the to resolution. This educated population also has a high go to the gay bar and sit in a safe little of global awareness, time though, the pat- incidence of risk-taking behaviour. nest at the VLT, observe the commu- of economy, of pol- existential loneliness of a being tern did not unfold Q: I’m interested in the culture nity, and participate to the level that itics, of science, of as it had. Any ideas of alcohol and substance abuse. he or she is comfortable with. technology, of culture floating unattached to this or plans met with a We see with some substances, harm If you or a loved one has an addic- and of people it is a earth in a meaningful way.” deepening of the ex- occurring across all the normal deter- tion problem, Addiction Prevention & cacophony of sound perience until hope minants of health, that is, education, Treatment Services has several locations assaulting the senses. Unlike the years of my youth began to wither on the branch. But real hope lifestyle, income. We don’t see that to meet people where they are at. Those when the struggle to find out more was the defining is something like the image presented by Emily with gambling. A: In the past, bars struggling with substance use and/or characteristic, the now is overwhelming present in Dickinson in her Poem # 254, from The Com- were the predominant way of meeting gambling; or their love ones who are af- its knowledge and experience. Is it no wonder to see plete Poems: people, and were typically blamed for fected by this can contact Phone: (902) those pernicious earplugs defining a space or to have Hope is the thing with feathers That perches in the use of alcohol. But that’s changed 424-8866 Toll Free: 1-866-340-6700 empty and vacuous constant communication in an the soul And sings the tunes without words— And in the last few years, and the alcohol / for information or to complete an intake attempt to ward off the existential loneliness of a be- never stops—at all. substance behaviour hasn’t changed. for services. ing floating unattached to this earth in a meaningful And that is what my room is for—to hear hope way. Thoreau wrote, in Civil Disobedience and Other singing when all else is silent and nothing works Essays, “Most [wo]men lead lives of quiet despera- anymore. To hear without plans, to sing without tion and go to the grave with the song still in them.” action, to know without certainity. United Church Rainbow Resonating within my heart, his words remind me It is not uncommon as we grow older to be of the sense of boredom I was experiencing last year aware of or to hear others say something like, ‘I am Discussions with my own self. The monthly column, the weekly 75 outside and a teenager inside’ or ‘50 is the new by Jack Murphy and Daniel Poirier said about homosexuality as found teaching, the relentless garden work, the tedium of 40’ or ‘60 is the new middle age’. What I yearn for Meteghan Centre NS in the 4 Gospels.” She opened the repetition of behaviour sapped my energy. Depres- is to hear the song within me longing to emerge, so On October 29, the United Church pamphlet and it was blank. Another sion you say, and I say yes, if depression is about a to speak. The life I seek is one congruent with my of Canada held a GBLTT Regional person stated: “If Jesus came to a lack of creativity, of change, of differences left unat- whole being, to live with peace my deepest values. Consultation asking persons to tell church on Sunday he would not say tended, and of habits wallowing in unconsciousness. No more fighting for or warring. Most of you have their stories and voice their thoughts I won’t talk to you because you are It took about thirty years to grow into and out of probably arrived here long before me. So welcome about the attitudes we have experi- gay, lesbian, widowed, a banker, or my own self; the repetition of my opinions, thoughts, me to the group, saying well done, let’s celebrate enced towards homosexuality and mentally or physically challenged. ideas, feelings and behaviours was wearing me down. and ask who wants to sing their song. heterosexism in the United Church You are all my beloved creations.” In today. About 25 persons attended the UC ministers can perform same and about half were heterosexuals. We gender marriage if the congregation met at St. Andrews United Church on gives him/her the authority. One of Coburg St. in Halifax. the ministers present stated that we Here are some of the thoughts must demand that all UC ministers and experiences which Danny and I have this power. would like to share. One of the two Finally the group concluded with 42 Canal Street (former Value Village) Building, Downtown Dartmouth facilitators began by stating; “I have this statement: We should have zero Weekends From 9am to 4pm | [email protected] | 902-402-2516 Inkjet Cartridges | Laser Toners a pamphlet to show you what Jesus tolerance of intolerance! Live your dream. Have you made your Quality. Value. RRSP contributions yet? Performance. Everyone dreams of a future with For our Free Special Report on RRSPs and good for the environment! or a personal, financial consultation, contact: a comfortable retirement. 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Does someone you know Fridays at 5:30 pm (subject to change, see have a drinking problem? 466-7077 web: PFLAG: Provides support to anyone deal- Nova Scotia (902) Anonymous HIV/AIDS Testing: 455-9656 webpage for updates)) at University of New ing with issues of sexual orientation and/or www.freewebs.com/alanonmaritimes Brunswick - Fredericton Campus, Marshall Hepatitis Outreach Society: Since 1999 Bedford United Church: An Affirming Min- gender identity. (506)648-9700 or 648-9227 istry of the United Church of Canada - ALL AtlanticCanadianLesbians: Online Group D’Avry Hall, Room 235 email: [email protected] web: the Hepatitis Outreach Society has been For Lesbians from the Atlantic Provinces providing support, education and prevention welcome 835-8497 email: bedfordunited@ UNB/STU Women’s Collective: Women www.pflagcanada.ca/saintjohn, meets 1st eastlink.ca web: www.bedfordunited.com, of all ages and orientations, meets every Friday (1st Friday of each month September information for those infected and affected AtlanticPoz: A new discussion group is by hepatitis in the province of Nova Scotia. meets every Sunday (9 am service - Casual for individuals living with HIV in Atlantic Monday at 5pm at the University Women’s - June from 7:00- 9:00 p.m. No meeting in and contemporary - with free coffee and muf- Centre at the SUB July & August. ) at 116 Coburg Street in Saint 420-1767 in HRM or 1-800-521-0572 Canada. web:health.groups.yahoo.com/ email: [email protected] web: fins before church to take into this service. group/atlanticpoz/ John, New Brunswick in the Community 11 am service - Quieter and more reverent in Moncton Health Centre next to St. Joseph’s Hospital. www.HepatitisOutreach.com at Our office Egale Canada - Atlantic: (888) 204-7777 is located at 2973 Oxford Street, between tone, coffee after service. June 13 to around email: [email protected] web: www. AIDS Moncton: offers support to people Port City Rainbow Pride: Pride Cel- Liverpool and Cork streets. Please call to September 12 we have one 10 am service.) egale.ca living with HIV and their families and friends, ebrations Committee email: events@ make an appointment or email Program@ at 1200 Bedford Hwy at Sullivan’s Hill, near Gender Expressions Atlantic: Support education and awareness 506-859-9616 portcityrainbowpride.comweb: www.portci- HepatitisOutreach.com. Atlantic Gardens for transgendered individuals ranging from email: [email protected] tyrainbowpride.com BLT-Womyn of Halifax: Bi Sexauls, Lesbi- web: www.sida-aidsmoncton.com at (506- SUNS GLB Constituency Committee: Crossdressers to Transexuals. email: gen- Saint John LGBTQ Lending Library: over 494-6654 at c/o the Students’ Union of NS an, Transgender Womyn’s Discussion Group [email protected] (No sched- 859-4726 fax) 80 Weldon St, Moncton, NB, 300 fiction and non-fiction titles. 634-8288 Online Sue’s # 499-0335 email: suean- E1C 5V8 email:[email protected] (open Mon- The Rainbow - Atlantic Awareness Soci- [email protected] web: ca.groups. uled meeting. Occasional social events, by ety: email: [email protected] invitation only.) PFLAG: Supporting all people with ques- day through Friday, 9 AM to noon.) at the yahoo.com/group/blt-womynofhalifax/ (No Venus Envy Bursary Society: An annual Healing Our Nations: Healing Our Na- tions or concerns about sexual orientation office of Centenary Queen Square United Meetings at Present! Please call if you have and gender identity issues (506) 869-8191 Church at 215 Wentworth Street. award open to all women studying in NS. any questions, 499-0335 sue) at Dalhousie tions is an Aboriginal HIV/AIDS service web:www.venusenvy.ca/halifax organization that serves the Atlantic region. email: [email protected] web: The UNBSJ Q-Collective: A social and Women’s Centre 6286 South Street (Beside 1.800.565.4255 email: [email protected] www.pflagcanada.ca/moncton.html, meets support organisation for UNBSJ students, Amherst Dalplex Driveway) Cancelled at the present (Training offered on request at no charge for 3rd Monday (Occassionally on the 2nd staff and faculty. 506-648-5737 web: www. time. Aboriginal peoples and/or organizations.) at Monday ‚Äî please call) at 7:30-9:30pm, unbsj.ca/clubs/qcollective (The UNBSJ Sexual Health Centre Cumberland Coun- DalOUT: DalOUT is the award-winning 31 Gloster Court, Dartmouth, NS B3B 1X9 University of Moncton, Adrien-J.-Cormier Q-Collective is interested in hearing from ty: Open and inclusive services: information, LGBTQ society at Dalhousie University. Bldg., Room 302 education, workshops, free condoms. 667- Maritime Transgender Workplace Solu- other university LGBTQ organisations and We pride ourselves on hosting fun, engag- River of Pride-riviere de fierte INC. of would like to possibly meet or collaborate.) 7500 email: [email protected] web: ing and educational events for the entire tions Project: Transgender Issues Work- cumberlandcounty.cfsh.info (9 - 5 drop-in or shops and information resource email: Greater Moncton: The organization meets at Various locations; event particulars will Halifax community. email: [email protected] regularly, to discuss upcoming events and be emailed to anyone who registers with appt) at 11 Elmwood Drive (Side entrance). web: www.dalout.ca, meets 2nd Thursday, [email protected] web: www3. Confidential, hassle-free. Free condoms. ns.sympatico.ca/winpapernews (No meet- activities, everyone is welcome to attend. the UNBSJ Q-Collective and/or who gets and 4th Thursday (from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m.) at ings, Workshops by arrangements, Infor- check out time / location posted on the the UNBSJ weekly ‚“E News”. Past events The Cumberland Pride Society: for: gay, the Dalhousie Student Union Building (6136 mation source when requested. Newsletter website. Media and general inquiries, includ- include the annual Rainbow Peace March, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and trans- University Ave., Room 321) Odds & Sods bi-weekly) ing registration of volunteers and parade guest speakers, movie nights, participation sexual individuals 660-5143 email: cumber- Frontrunners Halifax: Running/walking particpation, can be made from the website in Maritime Pride Parades, Supporters of [email protected] web: cumberland- club 422-7579 email: Bruce.Greenfield@dal. Mr Atlantic Canada Leather Society: or by email. email: riverofpride@hotmail. PFLAG Canada’s “Communities Encour- pride.sytes.net, meets 3rd Monday (7-9 PM) Dedicated to developing gay leather commu- ca web:www.frontrunners.org/clubs/index. com web:www.fiertemonctonpride.ca (See age Campaign” and “Champions Against php?club=Halifax, meets every Saturday, nities in the Atlantic region. email: waydo7@ webpage for schedule.) Homophobia”. Annapolis Valley hotmail.com and every Tuesday, and every Thursday Transgendered Peer Support Group: Woodstock Valley Gay Men’s Coffee House: Meets (Sat: 9:30am, Tue: 6:00 pm, Thu: 6:00pm ) Names Project (AIDS Memorial Quilt): Open to all M2F, F2M, Andro and trans- Thursday evenings at 7pm for coffee and at Main gates of the Halifax Public Gardens, panels - helping create, and lending. 902- supporters from across Atlantic Canada. Woodstock GLBT Youth Advocate and socializing and host a gay/lesbian/bi and corner of Spring Garden Road and South 454-5158 email:[email protected]. email: [email protected] Family OutReach: Books, movies, advice, all genders 19+ dance on the first Saturday Park Street. ca web: www.quilt.ca (Call if interested in Un sur Dix - University of Moncton Asso- directions, contacts, and support etc. for of each month from 9pm-1am.No Dance Gay Men’s Prostate Cancer Support volunteering or making a panel) at 3544 the family. 328-4868 email: richardb@ in November in leu of two dances held in Acadia St. Halifax, NS B3K 3P2 ciation for the LGBT community and their Group: Prostate Cancer Canada Network allies (not only for students): The mission nbnet.nb.ca October. 825-3197,363-2055 email: men- is launching a support group for gay men Narcotics Anonymous: a fellowship of re- is to ensure the well-being of the community [email protected] (email or call and their families. Our meetings are informal covering drug addicts who meet regularly to and to end homophobia (mainly a french as- Newfoundland & for locations or special events or themes) and provide a forum for personal discussion help each other stay clean. 1-800-205-8402 sociation, but also organizes some bilingual with prostate cancer survivors, those newly web: centralnovaarea.ca at Call the phone activities). For more information, please visit Lab (709) Antigonish diagnosed and their caregivers. For more number or visit the web page for meeting the website. email: [email protected] Frontrunners Newfoundland and Lab- Rainbow Warriors: Rainbow Warriors is a information or to become a member contact times and places. web: etudiants.umoncton.ca/umcm-unsurdix rador: Running/walking club. 722-5791 or youth-run support group for LGBTQ youth Peter Mallette at 902-420-9449 or peter. Project E: Presentation for youth, on gender 753-9529 email:tonybrathwaite@bellaliant. and allies in Antigonish. We hold social [email protected] 902-420-9449 expression, myth busters, proper terminol- Petit-Rocher net,[email protected] (meet- events such as picnics and game nights, email: [email protected] ogy and other facts web: www.freewebs. (Bathurst area) ing times can be flexible to accommodate have educational discussions around top- at Prostate Cancer Canada Atlantic 5121 com/xprojecte/ at available via web page new runners.) Sackville Street Suite 101 Halifax B3J 1K1 Gais.es Nor Gays Inc. (GNG): A bilingual ics such as stereotypes/assumptions and Wayves Magazine: Atlantic Canada’s volunteer association serving gay men, St. John’s transsexuality, and raise awareness in the GAY, LESBIAN & BISEXUAL YOUTH queer news and lifestyle magazine! lesbians and bisexuals of northern New surrounding community by participating GROUP AT Q.E.H.: Jeanie Buffet, Counsel- email:[email protected] web: way- Brunswick. email: [email protected] web: AIDS Committee of Newfoundland & in functions such as the Highland Games lor, at 421-6797 ves.ca (Deadline: the first Friday of every www.gngnb.ca (Dances are held at GNG Labrador: HIV/AIDS education and support Parade and the Farmers’ Market. While our Get Out, Halifax!: Recreation activities month; Editorial meeting: the Monday fol- club every Saturday night. See www.gngnb. for male/female/transgendered, all ages, group is youth-focused everyone is regard- (team activities, cycling, running, rowing - lowing that; layout the Sunday following that. ca for a list of upcoming events.) at 702 Newfoundland and Labrador 579-8656 less of age, and gender identity or sexual you name it) for metro & beyond! web: www. Email us to be put on our notification list!) rue Principale, Petit-Rocher NB. Look for email: [email protected] web: www.acnl.net orientation! Find our group on Facebook getouthalifax.ca at Visit and get on the email rainbow flag and/or door with pink triangle Gay Urban Youth Zone Project: designed “Rainbow Warriors - AAHA!” email: anti- list for more info. at rear of parking lot. [email protected], meets New Brunswick to increase HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, and STI every Monday (3:00-5:00pm) at The Anti- Girl-ish Productions: Girl-ish puts on hot (506) Sackville NB/ knowledge and awareness 579-8656 (ext. gonish Women’s Resource Centre, located and heavy bi-monthly-ish dance parties for 28) web: www.acnl.net at Tommy Sexton in the Kirk Building at 219 Main Street, Suite queer-ish folks and their friends. web: www. Amherst NS Centre 47 Janeway Place Pleasantville, girlish.ca Fredericton across from the old Janeway Hospital AIDS 204 (above Tim Hortons). Catalyst: Catalyst, Mount Allison’s Queer- Hal-Gal Mailing List: Low-traffic Yahoo AIDS New Brunswick / SIDA Nouveau- Committee of Newfoundland and Labrador X-Pride: social & support group at X 867- Straight Alliance, provides support & in- 5007 web: www.stfx.ca/people/xpride group providing events and information for Brunswick: committed to facilitating com- formation for all Mt. A students, staff, and LBGT-MUN Resource Centre: LBGT-MUN queer women in the Halifax area. email: hal- munity-based responses to the issues of faculty through meetings, seminars, and is an information/resource, service, and peer Bridgewater [email protected] web: groups.yahoo. HIV/AIDS. Needle exchange located in office social events. Everyone is welcome. email: support centre staffed by trained volunteers! com/group/hal-gal/ (Join the list to keep in at 65 Brunswick Street Fred. E3B 1G5 459- [email protected] web:www.mta.ca/clubs/ 737-7619 email: [email protected] (Open Sexual Health Centre for Lunenburg Coun- touch or post your events.) 7518 email: [email protected] web:www. catalyst/ (Catalyst meets approximately Monday-Friday 9-4. Biweekly meetings for ty: Confidential info, education&support for aidsnb.com (Office Hours: Monday to Friday, members and volunteers. ) at Smallwood/ everyone. Safer sex supplies, library, pam- Halifax Sexual Health Centre: Anonymous every week from Sept-Dec and Jan-April. HIV testing, open and inclusive sexual health 8:30AM to 12:30PM and 1:30PM to 4:30PM) For meeting info contact the president at University Center, UC-6022. Building located phlets, workshops 527-2868 email: LunCo@ on Prince Phillip Drive. Call us! Get involved! NSSexualHealth.ca web: www.theSHaC.org clinical services, education and workshops. Fredericton Lesbians and Gays: Email [email protected] or the Students’ Adminis- Everyone welcome. Confidential and non- listserv of events/news in the Fredericton for trative Council at [email protected].) (Hours vary. Open by appointment or by LBGTQ Youth Group: A monthly gathering chance. Please call ahead. ) at 4 Hillcrest judgmental. 455-9656 web: www.HSHC.ca gblt men and women. email: [email protected] PFLAG: Support and education for GLBT- for queer, allied, questioning, and any inter- ested youth. We offer social events such as Street Unit 8, Bridgewater. (On the corner Imperial and Sovereign Court of Atlantic Integrity: Supports and encour- T2IQQ persons, friends & family 506-536- of Dufferin and Hillcrest Streets). Closed Nova Society: Fundraising 902-449-7612 ages Gays and Lesbians in their spir- 4245 email:[email protected], meets bowling, movie nights, and coffee houses. Contact group coordinator Rob Sinnott at during summers. web:www.imperialcourtns.com, meets itual lives. email:integrityfredericton@ 2nd Monday (7:30 to 9:30pm No meeting 1st Sunday, and 2nd Sunday (Executive live.ca web: www.facebook.com/group. in July and August.) at Meeting location: the number listed, email, or visit the web Halifax page for more info. 699-0509 email: lbgtq@ Meetings Are Currently Held Every Second php?gid=46207976587, meets 3rd Sunday United Church Parlours, 112 Main Street in Sunday) at Meeting Locations Vary (4:00pm) at Unitarian Fellowship of Freder- Sackville, NB nlsexualhealthcentre.org web: nlsexual- Affirm United: GLBT & Friends support, icton at 874 York Street healthcentre.org action and worshipping community within Integrity: Integrity is an organization of Saint John PFLAG Canada - St. John’s NL Chapter: the United Church 461-4528 email: alstew@ GLBT Anglicans and their friends, to en- PFLAG: Support & education on issues of eastlink.ca courage Christian gay men and lesbians sexual orientation & gender identity (506) Affirming United Church - Centenary - Monthly Chapter meetings, support and information for gay, lesbian, bisexual, AIDS Coalition of Nova Scotia: non-profit, in their spiritual life; to support the Church 455-7190 email: [email protected] Queen Square United Church: invites you in its commitment to seek and serve Christ web: www.geocities.com/Pflagfredericton/, to worship! 506-634-8288 email: cqsunited@ transgender, transsexual, two-spirit, inter- community-based AIDS organization, pro- sex, queer and questioning persons and vincially mandated. Provides direct service in all people; and to reach out to the GLBT meets 4th Tuesday (7-9 pm (except Decem- nb.aibn.com web: www.cqsunited.ca, meets community in Christian love and service. ber: 2nd Tuesday)) at Unitarian Fellowship every Sunday (10:30am) at 215 Wentworth their parents, families and friends. 699-0509 and support for people living with HIV/AIDS email:[email protected] web: www. and also offers various prevention programs (902) 425-8383 web: www.integritycanada. of Fredericton 874 York St. Fredericton NB St, Saint John, NB org, meets 3rd Sunday (4:00pm) at All Saints E3B 3R8 pflagcanada.ca (We will aim to hold Chapter across NS. You can reach us locally to HRM AIDS Saint John: To improve the quality at 425-4882 or across the province at 1-800- Cathedral Spectrum: Spectrum is a social/support Meetings on the third Thursday of each of life for those infected & affected by HIV/ month. Please check www.pflagcanada.ca 566-2437. (902)425-4882 email: acns@ Koinonia Ecumenical Church: Meaning group celebrating the diversity of the GLBTQ AIDS, and to reduce the spread of HIV acns.ns.ca web: www.acns.ns.ca “community”. Koinonia is an ecumenical faith community and gay-friendly peoples at UNB for schedule and any changes.) at Com- through education and a needle exchange munity Connections, 9 Cathedral Street, community offering open membership, equal and STU. Weekly meetings are open for both program. Call the office for details. 652-2437 Alcoholics Anonymous: Live & Let Live St. John’s NL. AA Group for LGBT community (902) 425- marriage, practicing bible, church, religious students and non-students to attend, and email: [email protected] web:www.aids- and soul freedom,as well as open table may feature various ‘theme’ nights from fun saintjohn.com St. John’s Pride Inc: The officially-regis- 8383/422-4972 email: courage449@yahoo. tered non-profit Pride company for St. John’s com, meets every Monday (at 8pm) at St communion. Koinonia offers Spiritual Care. and games to more serious current event Gay Men’s Supper Club: web: www.portci- Crisis support visitation and counselling for Wayves ­— December 2011 — 13 an honorarium. ALL are Welcome who cel- care. 220.0643 of Sexual Health and the Canadian Federa- dates!) at Southend Community Centre. Wolfville ebrate God’s Covenant to Love All of God’s Quakers: Quakerism emphasizes that we all tion of Sexual Health. They are a pro-choice Maps are at our website. Creation. We are a registered charitable or- manifest the Divine. 429-2904 web: halifax. and GLBTTQQI friendly organization. 695- Acadia Women’s Centre: 585-2140 email: ganization accepting donations from all who quaker.ca, meets every Sunday at Library 3366 email:[email protected] Tatamagouche [email protected] (Acadia SUB believe in the promotion of our all-inclusive at Atlantic School of Theology, Franklyn St. web: www.pictoucountysexualhealth.com Tatamagouche Centre: We are an affirm- Second Level Balcony ) community of faith. Contact Rev. Elaine @ All very welcome. Pictou County Women’s Centre: Offering ing centre, welcoming all gay, lesbian, and Yarmouth 902-876-8771 for more information, or mail Individual Support Counselling and Crisis transgendered people. 1.800.218.2220 your contribution to 2410 St. Margaret’s Queer Play: A Queer performing arts group in Halifax NS email: [email protected] Intervention, Information and Referral, email: [email protected] web: www. South West Nova Pride: We are a social Bay Road Halifax N.S. B3T 1H1 with your Advocacy and Accompaniment, Programs tatacentre.ca group for SW Nova Scotia. All GLBT people name and address so we can issue your tax Spirituality For Lesbians: We seek to and Community Education 755-4647 email: of any age and in any stage of coming out receipt. 876-8771 email: koinonia@eastlink. deepen our relationship with God, knowing [email protected] Truro are invited, we have a monthly gathering ca (we gather bi-weekly at 12:30pm - 1:30 that God loves us and calls us into life just at Sobeys community room on Starrs Rd. followed by a time of fellowship) at Petrie’s as he has created us. Persons of every or Central Nova Women’s Resource Centre: New Minas / Resources, programs and services available in Yarmouth at 7:00 PM on the 2nd last Halifax Feast Dinner Theatre, Maritime no denomination are welcome. 459-2649, Wednesday of each month. We create a Centre - entrance on the corner of Barrington meets 2nd Wednesday (7:30-9PM, phone Annapolis Valley for all women identified women. Advocacy and support - with outreach to rural areas. monthly calendar of events for such things as & Salter Streets for meeting locations) Valley Youth Project: Sexual Orien- pool, potluck parties, day trips or what ever tation. Gender Identity. Allies. Youth. Also, see our Facebook group. Central Nova Manna For Health: A special needs referral Team Halifax: All GLBT over 18, athletes Women’s Resource Centre http://cnwrc. members like to do. So come join us have fun food bank for those living with life threatening and performance artists, as well as anyone email:[email protected] (6- and meet other GLBT people. 645-2914/749- 8:30 most Wednesdays through May) at weebly.com, [email protected] 535 Prince illness. 429-7670 willing to help out. 422-9510 web: www. Street, Truro, NS B2N 1E8 (902) 895-4295 0977 email: [email protected] or teamhalifax.com (No fixed schedule at this New Minas Civic Center, 9209 Commercial [email protected] web: SWNovaPride. MomSquared: CALLING ALL LESBIAN St. Ages 25 & under. Free bus tickets avail- web: cnwrc.weebly.com MOMS. I know you’re out there! A group for time, look on website for further details.) com(Check out our our facebook at South able. Free food. Fun activities. Join us on Colchester Sexual Assault Centre: West Nova Pride.) lesbian moms to connect and provide sup- The Masculine Spectrum: is a new support Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ Provides support and information to any- port and friendship to each other as well as group for all transgender, transsexual, & pages/Valley-Youth-Project/22418494995 one (GBLTQ included) affected by sexual friendship and interaction for our children. trans men, FtMs, female assigned at birth assault and abuse. 902-897-4366 email: Prince Edward email: [email protected]: genderqueers, two-spirited, intersexed, & Sydney [email protected] (Centre momsquared.weebly.com questioning people 18 years of age or older, Island (902) AIDS Coalition of Cape Breton: Support, Hours Mon-Thurs 9:30-4:30) at 80 Glenwood Mount Pride: LGBTQ group at Mount Saint of all sexual orientations. No significant oth- Drive, Truro Nova Scotia Gay PEI Mailing List: Electronic mailing ers, friends, family, or allies please. web: advocacy, prevention/education for those list for all GLBT, questioning and friendly, Vincent University email:mountpride@ infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. Free con- Northern AIDS Connection Society: mountstudents.ca, meets last Monday ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/genderspec- focus is on PEI email: gay-pei-owner@ trum/, meets 2nd Sunday at Just Us Cafe, doms! Queer Advocacy and Education, Nee- HIV prevention education initiative serving yahoogroups.com web: groups.yahoo.com/ (at 2:00pm. ) at Meetings in the Diversity dle Distribrution, Food Bank, Coffee,Safe counties Colchester, Pictou, Cumberland & Center in Roseria. Possible events that are 5896 Spring Garden Road group/gay-pei at All first posts are moderated Space for those infected or affected. (902) East Hants 895-0931 email: nacs@eastlink. to stop spambots, otherwise, it’s an open list. being planned for the year include sexuality The Youth Project: Support, education 567-1766 Toll Free 1-877-597-9255 email: ca web: northernaidsconnectionsociety.ca awareness, movies nights, social events, and social activities for youth 25 and under [email protected] web: www. (Our Board of Directors meet bi-monthly GLBT Youth group: Safe Space Drop-Ins guest speakers, and many more. There are across Nova Scotia. Weekly events, plus a accb.ns.ca (Free Anonmymous Testing on the third Thursday of the month. Annual 367-3408 or toll free 1 877 380 5776 (E-mail always LGBTQ community events to be youth food bank and Health nurse on site. 1-902-567-1123 Monday and Tuesday each General Meeting held regularly in June. See us for further details.) at 144 Prince St. involved with and events that are always 429-5429 email: youthproject@youthproject. week from 8:30 to 4:30 and Thursdays from webpage for contact numbers in your area PFLAG Canada - PEI: Providing support, fun. This group is open to anyone who ns.ca web: www.youthproject.ns.ca(Please 8:30 to Noon. Check our Website for events of northern Nova Scotia.) at 33 Pleasant education and advocacy for GLBT persons, would like to join. Also, join the “Mount Pride” see our website for an up-to-date calendar and updates. ) at 150 Bentinck St, Sydney, Street, Truro, N.S. their families and friends in PEI 902-887- Facebook group! of events.) N.S. B1P 1G6 Rainbow Proud: Rainbow Proud sup- 3620 email: [email protected] web: www. Nova Scotia Rainbow Action Project: Trans Family Nova Scotia: Trans Family Cape Breton University Sexual Diversity ports the LGBT** community of Truro and pflagcanada.ca (Meetings take place on an NSRAP, the Nova Scotia Rainbow Action is an open & supportive space welcoming Centre: We provide a welcoming environ- surrounding areas. Our small group of as needs basis.) at Check with Mary or Bill Project: for 15 years the leading advocate for families, friends and allies as well as trans ment for GLBTQ people and their Allies. volunteers work hard to put events together Kendrick on this months location by calling Nova Scotia’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and and genderqueer folk themselves. If you are 902-563-1481 email: [email protected] for everyones enjoyment. Any feedback 902-887-3620. Transgender Community. Fostering change unable to join us at a meeting for any reason, (Monday to Thursday 8:30-5 or by appoint- will be considered and can be sent to our in our communities through education, out- we can you help source resources and refer ment) at the Students’ Union Building, Cape email address. We hope you continue to Charlottetown reach, and political action. 444.3206 email: you to other appropriate organizations to Breton University. come celebrate our community together. AIDS PEI: AIDS PEI offers HIV prevention [email protected] web: www.nsrap.ca at TBA help meet your needs. For more information, PFLAG: Peer support & education on email: [email protected] web: and support services to all residents of PEI. Outlaw: GLBTQ & Allies Law Students please feel free to call or email Michelle. 902- rainbowproudnovascotia.ca (See webpage 902-566-2437 email: [email protected] web: 431-8500 email:[email protected], issues of sexual orientation & gender Association at Dalhousie Law School identity. email:sydneyns@pflagcanada. for schedule.) www.aidspei.com at 375 University Ave, Unit email:[email protected] web: www. meets 3rd Monday (6:30 to 8:30 pm) at The 2, Charlottetown PE, C1A 4N4 Youth Project 2281 Brunswick St., Halifax ca, meets last Sunday (of the month from RESPECT: Students Making Healthy Deci- facebook.com/group.php?gid=2416842853 6:30-8:30pm. No meetings for June, July or sions 893-6300 email: [email protected] ARC -- Abegweit Rainbow Collective: (Meetings vary. Please email for further in- Universalist Unitarian Church: an inclu- August.) at Family Place Resource Centre at P.O. Box 550, Nova Scotia Agricultural Serving GLBT Islanders, their friends and formation or check out our Facebook group.) sive liberal religious community 429-5500 106 Townsend Street, Sydney NS College, Truro, N.S. B2N 5E3 families. 894-5776 email: [email protected] at Dalhouisie Law School. 6061 University email:[email protected] web: UUCH.ca Pride Cape Breton Society: Dances and SAAFE (Supporting An Alternative web: www.arcofpei.com, meets 1st Monday Avenue. Halifax, Nova Scotia. , meets every Sunday (10:30; see website (6:00pm at 375 University Ave Suite # 2 for special events) at 5500 Inglis St Social Events. Monthly dances are Adults Friendly Environment): Social/support PFLAG: Support & education on issues of Only! Check website community events. group at the NS Agricultural College. 893- Charlottetown, PE) sexual orientation & gender identity. These Kentville (902) 539-4627 email: info@pridecapebre- 6300 email: [email protected] (Meetings meetings are open to all. For more informa- ton.com web: www.pridecapebreton.com as requested. Membership changes each tion please feel free to contact Michelle Red Door: Youth Health & Support Centre. (Dances on the last Saturday of every month. academic year.) Malette by phone or email. Hope you’ll join Information and services for sexual health. Check website for dance and special event us! 431-8500 email:halifaxns@pflagcanada. Ages 13 - 30. 679-1411 web: thereddoor. ca, meets 1st Thursday (We meet on the 1st ca (Monday to Friday 2pm to 6pm) at 150 Thursday of each month from 6:30 -8:30 Park Street pm 902-431-8500) at Youth Project, 2281 Brunswick St, Halifax Lunenburg Play Group for Queer Families: 422-8780 Second Story Women’s Centre: We offer a (3-5pm) at Board Room (Play Room) at meeting space for women, support counsel- Needham Community Recreation Centre, ling, programs, and referrals. (902)640-3044 3372 Devonshire St (north end Halifax, near email: [email protected] web: www. intersection of Duffus & Novalea, bus routes secstory.com at Second Story Women’s 7 & 9) Bring a snack for your child(ren). We Centre is located at 22 King Street, Post will be collecting money from each family Office Centre, Lunenburg. to cover the cost of the room rental, likely $2-4 per week. Middleton Pride Week: Producers of Atlantic Canada’s PFLAG: Information and support for GLBT largest LGBTQ cultural festival. 431-1194 community and their friends and families. email:[email protected] web: www. 902-825-0548 email: middletonns@pflag- halifaxpride.ca canada.ca web: www.pflagcanada.ca/mid- prideHealth: prideHealth is a program of dleton.html (Check online for meeting times Capital Health and the IWK Health Centre. and locations- or phone 825-0548) If you are a member of the pride community and need support with any kind of health New Glasgow care call Anita our Clinical Nursing Special- Pictou County Centre for Sexual Health: ist, number below. She is available free Providing comprehensive and accessible of charge, offers complete confidentiality, sexual and reproductive heath services in a and can also give you support if you are safe, confidential and non-judgemental man- experiencing homo or transphobia. pride- ner for women and men of all ages. 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Letter The 416er Dear Wayves, an organization. Thanks to support by Randall Perry AIDS Saint John would like to express like yours, we raised over $7,500 how grateful we are for your ongoing which will help AIDS Saint John pro- support of our AIDS Walk for Life. vide programming in South Western I’m The Street You Walk, The The ad you provide us in Wayves is a New Brunswick. fantastic opportunity for us to rouse Sincerely Leigh Aube Office Manager Language You Talk awareness for the Walk and for us as AIDS Saint John The sun is out and the fall air is cool. It’s September, and getting settled into a nine to five (and allow- 1974, and I’m walking to school, eagerly anticipat- ing for two to three hours of commute per day) Marriage is Bliss ing the first day of Grade 2. My parents and I live routine means I don’t feel like I have to squeeze continued from page 7 in a high rise on The West Mall, in the west end as much into my schedule as I used to when I of the city. Down the street from our building I visited. Hence, even given the hectic pace of the stop at a huge weeping willow tree and wait for the city, I’ve still managed to dial back my level of crossing guard to put up her STOP sign and signal activity and take time to breathe. me to cross. I look at the building behind the tree, Before I go further, I should explain the sig- a low-rise in two pieces connected by a glassed-in nificance of the title of this new column. When foyer. I’m fascinated by the design and wonder what telephone area codes were established in the kinds of people live there. late 1940s, Toronto acquired area code 416. As Blink. population density has grown over the years the The sun is out and the summer air is hot. It’s city and its outlying areas needed more phone June, 1988, and I’m walking down Church Street, numbers two new area codes were introduced eagerly anticipating the first days of a new life. I’m over the years. Nowadays, with cell phone use between my third and fourth years of university and skyrocketing, phone numbers are being used up am spending the summer in Toronto. A few years at a faster rate than ever, and numbers with the earlier I began my coming out process and this sum- 416 area code are dwindling. mer I will meet the first well-adjusted gay people Put another way, there’s a perception here I’ve met in my life… well-adjusted, at least, by my that there’s a cool factor to having a 416 phone reckoning after living in Charlottetown for a few number. You’re in a sort of exclusive club, albeit years and finding late-80s gay life little more than that club has potentially 7.5 million other mem- furtive gropes in darkened cars parked on one-way bers, considering that’s the number of potential streets; sad-looking closeted men in one certain bar phone numbers contained within an area code. we were told by our university residence manager So “416er” it is. It wouldn’t bother me if I to stay away from. were a 905er or a 647er or a 289er, or even a Our ties really do say “Just Married”! Blink. 365er in 2013 when that code is introduced. I open my eyes and the subway car is now com- I’ve never bought into snobbish behaviour but I Being a married, openly gay cou- his job and come home. pletely packed. The train is rocking and someone do get a kick out of making a mockery of sacred ple, you would think that we would We own our own home and most a few feet away has farted, adding more perfume cows, so when in Rome…! encounter some problems like being of my neighbours know we're gay, but to the already pungent musk of several kinds of My last column, “The Last Word,” always ap- called faggot, queer and such, but I again, it's not an issue. People have a cologne, old sweat, someone’s spicy breakfast. It’s peared at the end of the magazine and was thus will tell you that we haven’t encoun- lot more things to worry about in life stuffy and when the train stops and more people a last word of sorts before the reader closed the tered any. For the most part, I think then having a gay couple living next jam themselves into the car I realize I still have ten final page. “The 416er” may appear at the back people are starting to change their door to them or in the neighbour- more stops to go. of the magazine but it will not be a last word; attitudes towards homosexual life; it’s hood! And, I'm sure we are not the An ABBA lyric plays in my MP3 player: “The instead it will be an exploration of my transition not hidden anymore. only ones in the neighbourhood that famous hotels and the cocktail bars/And the funny from Maritimer to Torontonian. Since I lived 36 My boss knows I am gay and he are gay. smells/And the turmoil, the cars and the people/The of my 44 years in the Maritimes, I will always be, has no issue with it whatsoever. I'm An elderly lady who lives down air that you’re breathing is me/Yes I am the city you at heart, “from there.” Moving back to Toronto there to do my job and come home. I the street told my neighbour, “I know let me be.” Funny smells, indeed. After a lifetime has always been on my agenda… even if I’m here work with the public in customer ser- what they are, and you know some- of living next to the ocean there’s no salt-smell to for only a year or two, or until I get the city out vice, and I have not encountered any thing, those two boys are the nicest the air and I have a sudden pang of homesickness. of my system, as it were, and move on, it’s one ignorant people. I have had the odd people that live on this street. To each I remind myself, this is what you wanted, this more item off the list. customer ask me if I am gay and I tell their own, I say.” is what you were working for, so don’t bitch. Still, I’m an observer by nature, and my curiosity them, "Yes I am." They tell me that I would like to add that my hus- I wonder what I’ve gotten myself into. I now live is being rewarded. I moved to a city of millions gay people come a long way or “I have band and I will be married five years in this building behind the weeping willow on The to examine my life and find myself, as the cliché a family member who is gay and we this April, and our little saying since West Mall… it’s old, dry and even though there’s goes. My initial expectations have been shot to don’t look at them any different. We we first met is 2004 is, “Forever and lots of space, it’s nowhere near the fantasy I envi- pieces and I have no idea what lies ahead. I never love them for who they are not what ever, eternity and beyond.” sioned as a child. thought it possible, but the unexpected is what’s they are.” These nice comments make I love you Stephen I am glad that Truism number one: living in Toronto is a much firing me up now. my day. My husband’s boss knows he you walked into my life. I don’t know different beast than visiting Toronto. It hasn’t taken [email protected] is gay as well, and there is no issues what path I would be on today if it long to get the obvious touristy stuff out of the way there as well; again he is there to do weren’t for you. 179-7001 Wayves 1_6_K 2/9/07 12:15 PM Page 5 Experience pays off.

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Professional Realty Wayves ­— December 2011 — 15 Newfoundland Chef’s Corner Transsexual runs by Darren Lewis 30th Marathon! When Jennifer McCreath crossed the ally satisfying that she couldn’t wait to Classic finish line of the Newfoundland Pro- run another one, even though most vincial Marathon in St. John’s on Sept training programs only recommend 25, 2011, it marked the 30th time she two per year. So a week later, she drove Holiday finished a marathon. What makes this to Cleveland, Ohio, and ran another unique is that she completed them one! She was officially hooked and within a span of 52 months, and did became a member of the Marathon Eggnog so while undergoing a physically and Maniacs (a group of runners who Jennifer is depicted here moments after emotionally-challenging sex reassign- complete multiple marathons in short finishing the 2009 Boston Marathon. ment process. time frames). We will soon be entertaining family and friends for Christmas and Although a somewhat competitive As summer approached, Jennifer Copenhagen with a policy proposal that would allow for the creation of other holiday get-togethers. This recipe is a tried and true traditional tennis player during her teenage years, had moved to Newfoundland and was favourite which was always a staple in my family. Eggnog fell out of Jennifer spent most of her life as a ready to go full time as a woman. She a third sex classification for athletes who were in transition, or otherwise favour for many years (all that fat and cholesterol) but seems to be couch potato. At the age of 33, she expected to become a public figure, making a comeback. Even big grocery chains are producing ready- came out to herself as transsexual and and would face perceived credibility did not identify with the gender/sex binary classification scheme. Her pro- to-use containers of the stuff, full of preservatives, flavour enhancers prepared to undertake the journey issues, so she decided to use her status and colouring. My feeling on this is the same as my philosophy at of transition from male to female, as a marathon runner, to help build posal was accepted and she became the first person to run (and swim) in Chives. Use natural ingredients, make it delicious and consume in through a medical program that her profile as a competent person who moderation. Besides, what are the holidays without being able to included replacing testosterone with was capable of setting challenging this category. Although slowed down by the hormone replacement process, indulge a bit with your favourite people? This recipe uses alcohol, but estrogen and progesterone, having her goals and following through on them. you can omit the booze by using natural bourbon and rum extract. primary sex organs removed (testes), It seemed to work. Jennifer sought further trans visibility, and ran many more marathons over You can use a food processor, blender or good old fashioned whisk and having her penis and scrotum One year later, at 165 pounds and and the result is always delicious. What’s great about this recipe is that transformed into a neo-vagina and training 160 kmn per week, she ran the next few years in cities all over North America. the leftovers are great in a cup of coffee the next morning. You know, clitoris. Her first step was to get in her personal best marathon time of 3 a little hair of the dog… Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year. shape, as she knew that transition hours 16 minutes - good enough to In January 2011, Jennifer had her would be both physically and emo- qualify her for the legendary Boston final sex reassignment surgery. She Ingredients Method tionally draining. She also knew that Marathon. It was at this point that was determined to make an impres- 5 egg yolks (natural free range) 1. Place all of the ingredients, the hormone replacement process Jennifer had just started the hormone sion once again, and signed up for, 3/4 cup granulated sugar in the except the heavy cream, into would mean that she would and completed the Georgia Marathon raw the blender, cover with lid and lose strength, speed, endur- “As 2009 arrived, Jennifer just 55 days after surgery. 2 1/2 cups 2% milk blend on high just long enough ance, metabolism levels, Come spring, Jennifer 1 cup 35% cream to combine all the elements and oxygen-processing lev- was chemically female, yet still found herself going back 1/4 cup good quality Bourbon smoothly. els, and gain body fat. to some of her favourite 1/2 cup spiced rum (or to taste!) 2. Strain the mixture through She was sitting at home anatomically and legally male. marathons to run them 1 tsp natural vanilla extract a fine mesh strainer into your on a cold January 1, 2007 As a transwoman, she felt it a second, third, and in Pinch of sea salt pitcher or punch bowl. evening, and decided right some cases, the 5th year in 1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg 3. Stir in the heavy cream and there and then to take up was important that she not run a row. At the 26 km mark chill for at least 1 hour. running. So she put on her of the Halifax Marathon, winter clothing and run- under the male classification.” already dealing with some Serving suggestions ning shoes and ran around the block. replacement process, and shortly serious knee pain from As with everything, this recipe tastes better from a Martini glass. It was tough, as she was totally out of thereafter, she would undergo her previous runs, Jennifer’s knee buckled Chill the glasses in the freezer, rim the glasses with granulated raw shape, and was carrying 238 pounds. first of two sex reassignment surgeries. and her entire leg went numb. Mo- sugar, drop in an ice cube or two, and pour the eggnog over the ice. She forced herself to run around the As 2009 arrived, Jennifer was chemi- tivated by the fact that she was run- Garnish with cinnamon stick, fresh grated nutmeg, and an orange block every day, until she was able to cally female, yet still anatomically ning today to raise money for charity zest twist. Enjoy! run twice. As weeks went by, the run- and legally male. As a transwoman, to help fight poverty in Africa, she ning became easier, and the weight she felt it was important that she not refused to quit the race, and limped her way through two hours of pain to started to drop. run under the male classification. pain on pretty much a 24/7 basis. never run another marathon, but get herself across the finish line for the Come April, Jennifer had already She approached the organizers and But Jennifer was determined to run feels content knowing she has made 29th time. The knee was such a mess dropped 30 pounds and was do- asked if they would consider creating her 5th consecutive Newfoundland an impact. Most importantly, she that Jennifer was not able run any ing a weekly long run. Inspired by a third sex category. Although they Marathon, and reach that elusive 30 has survived the transition process races throughout the summer. a neighbour who was very close to declined, they did approve her to run marathon milestone. If she didn’t do and is able to enjoy the benefits: Not able to run, Jennifer found hitting what seemed to be an insane as a female. it now, she may never do it. So, she having sexual organs that match her her health and fitness levels plumet- goal of running 50 marathons by age Disturbed by ignorance towards put the shoes back on and struggled gender identity, having grown natural ing to where they were when she first 50, Jennifer decided to sign up for trans issues among the global ath- through almost six hours of pure hell, breasts, having softer skin and thinner started. She had gained back all the the 2007 Mississauga Marathon (she letic industry, Jennifer sought to raise but survived it! body hair, and having natural female weight she had lost. She also found lived in Toronto at the time). The awareness and seek acceptance. She Jennifer currently awaits x-ray hormonal emotions! herself dealing with constant knee experience proved to be so emotion- approached the World Outgames in results on her right knee. She may

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weddings memorials child dedications other rites of passage 16 — December 2011 — Wayves