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Mon G ay Alliance Tues Youth Program Fabulous Wed Fridays Thurs 7-9 pm Fabulous Open Arms The Empty Closet MCC, 707 E. Sat Main Street Sun Very Fab Follow us on Facebook at Empty Closet News • Follow us at www.twitter.com/EmptyClosetNews number 479 a publication of the gay alliance june 2014 aring e F ott c : h P OTO S Trans panel members with Jeanne Gainsburg and students. G ay Alliance panel at St. John Fisher Pharmacy School educates about transgender issues Training may be only one in this country By Adam Young adamant in reciting what was When Mallory Livingston, instructed in their file. co-founder and co-president of “Because of who I am, they’re the Syracuse Transgender Alli- not taking me very seriously, and ance, began going to a local they’re rolling their eyes… they Toronto World Pride runs June 20-29. pharmacy to pick up hormone keep telling me what’s on their replacement therapy (HRT) computer screen, and that’s what for transitioning, the response they have to do. The [staff] is T oronto hosts WorldPride 2014: Rise Up! from the pharmaceutical staff not taking what I say as cor- By Susan Jordan Lollapalooza and rivals Calgary’s was usually confused, even dis- rect,” Livingston said. The lack A huge global Pride event is Stampede for the title of Can- respectful at times. of privacy at the pharmacy coun- coming up June 20–29, only a ada’s largest festival. This year Despite how she presented ter was also uncomfortable, par- few hours’ drive from Roches- WorldPride 2014 is expected to herself at the counter, she was ticularly at busy times. “So if ter. Up to two million LGBTQ attract up to two million attend- often referred to as “he,” given there are people in line… you’re people from around the world ees, making Pride in Toronto the male name that remained basically spilling your guts to a are expected to attend. officially Canada’s largest festi- on her ID. Livingston also bunch of strangers,” Livingston WorldPride 2014 Toronto val of any kind. required a unique syringe and said. (WP14TO) is a 10-day inter- Major partner organizations needle combination to take Jennifer Mathews and Amy national celebration incorpo- al LGBTQ communities. The include the Toronto Interna- her HRT. However, at the Parkhill, Associate Professors of rating activism, education, and WorldPride event, held in a dif- tional Film Festival, Inside Out time, the pharmacy staff was (Pharmacy continues page 3) the history and culture of glob- ferent country each year, replaces (presenter of the annual Toron- the usual Toronto Pride celebra- to LGBT Film Festival), TD tion. The theme for WP14TO Toronto Jazz Festival, Art Gal- is “Rise Up!” as chosen by the (T oronto continues page 3) Rochester City community. Council member Matt Haag with Dozens of events will take Mayor Lovely place at various venues across the Warren. Over 500 Greater Toronto area. The main guests attended festival footprint will be over 25 Inside ESPA’s 15th Annual blocks and will include 10 open- ...... Spring Dinner. Editorials 2 air free-to-attend stages. Melissa Local/State News...... Right: Evelyn 3 Etheridge, Deborah Cox, Mar- National/International News..... 4 Bailey receives tha Wash, Hercules and Love Interview: Ambush...... 7 Community LGBTQ Living: Families...... 17 Service Award Affair, Crystal Waters, Neon Shoulders To Stand On ...... 21 from Bruce Hitch, Chely Wright, Amanda Columnists ...... 22 Gorman and Emily Rheaume, Steve Grand, Mark Community ...... 25 Jones. Photos: Jacob and DJs David Morales Entertainment: Gay plays...... 27 Ove Overmyer and Quentin Harris are among Gay Alliance: Youth picnic...... 30 the many international artists to Calendar...... 34 M ayor Warren announces extended trans health benefits for perform. Classifieds...... 34 Pride in Toronto is one of the Comics...... 34, 35 city employees at Empire State Pride Agenda Spring Dinner largest arts and culture festivals The Gay Alliance is publisher By Ove Overmyer, Staff Reporter, At the dinner, Rochester which time the City of Rochester in North America. Welcoming of The Empty Closet, New York Empty Closet Newspaper Mayor Lovely Warren, alongside will add transgender healthcare more than 1.22 million guests in State’s oldest LgbtQ newspaper. On May 17 at the Roches- Rochester City Councilmember benefits for employees and their 2013, it is larger than Chicago’s ter Riverside Convention Center, Matt Haag, announced that the family members who are enrolled The Empire State Pride Agenda city will extend transition-related in the City’s “enhanced” medi- (ESPA) celebrated its long-stand- healthcare coverage to transgen- cal plan. Approved by the City’s I nterview, page 6 ing commitment to winning the der and gender non-conforming Labor Management Healthcare fight for equality and justice for municipal employees. Committee in April, the new LGBT New Yorkers by hosting The benefits will go into coverage will pay for services its 15th Annual Spring Dinner. effect beginning Jan. 1, 2015 at related to gender reassignment surgery such as medical and psy- chological counseling, hormone They Ga Alliance appreciates the continuing therapy and cosmetic and recon- partnership of businesses within our community structive surgeries. who support our mission and vision. ESPA Executive Direc- ourt Pla inum level partners are: tor Nathan M. Schaefer said, “We’re so proud that Mayor Warren, Council member Matt Haag and the City of Rochester shared this significant news at our Spring Dinner. The inclu- sion of transition-related care in municipal benefits will improve (Partnerships continue on page 2) (ESPA continues page 6) 2 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014 G ay Alliance Board of Trustees David Zona, President, Jessica Muratore, Vice-President, W. Bruce Gorman, Secretary, Peter Mohr, Treasurer, Perspectives Jason Barnecut, Chris Hilderbrant, Emily Jones, Jeff Lambert, Jeff Markarian, Steve Santacroce, William Schaefer, Chris Woodworth

T he Empty Closet Editor G ay Alliance Board President Susan Jordan D avid Zona and they have convinced many But this wasn’t just any other G ay Alliance partnerships in the Third World. But when event. This was a chance to see continued from page 1 faith denies justice, it ceases to the future. This was an oppor- be faith and becomes fanaticism. tunity for me to connect with a THANK YOU The U.S. looks like one of tomorrow so very different than the most liberal countries on what I’d experienced as a young- LGBTQ rights, but in spite of er gay male. These were youth g old Level the growing acceptance of mar- living in a very different time riage equality and LGBTQ peo- than what I recall from my own ple in general, North American experiences. And it made me feel gays are still in constant danger a strong sense of gratitude for the of harassment, discrimination progress that has occurred over and deadly attack. If Teapubli- that period of roughly 20 years cans should take control of the since my younger days – a rela- Senate this fall, or of the White tively short period of time con- House in 2016, the rights we do sidering the slow pace of social C ity of Rochester have could be taken away and we change. World Pride can expect severe repression, as T houghts at the As a high school kid, there Absolut/Malibu rightwing True Believers try to was no way that it would’ve WorldPride 2014 is coming take our country back to 1950. Prom been acceptable for me to be an silver Level to Toronto this month, and for Or was that 1850? I remember my first meet- openly LGBTQ individual. And 10 days as many as two million WorldPride is not the only ing as a Board Member of the as such, I hid my identity from 3 Olives those with whom I rode the LGBTQ people and allies will nearby Pride event coming up GAGV. I had been aware of the Baccardi celebrate Pride with dozens of this summer. Buffalo’s Pride organization for some years and school bus and roamed the halls. events. Parade is Sunday, June 1; Syra- in enough of a capacity to be very I forced myself to do the things Toronto is only around four cuse is Saturday, June 14. New much interested in becoming an that I thought were appropriate hours’ drive from Rochester, and York City’s Pride events run June active supporter. Upon joining for a young male to do, unwill- hopefully many area residents 24-29. the Board, I spent more time ing to admit the things that I will be able to get there. They Rochester Pride is held in digging into the good work that enjoyed that seemed to depart Barefoot Wine from these expectations. I often will meet people from all over July. We will have a fabulous the Agency had done spanning found myself hoping that by act- Hedonist Artisan Chocolate Canada, the U.S. and the world. Carnival-themed event, July its then almost 40 years’ worth A lot of Rochestarians travel to 19-20. See the Pride Guide sup- ing the part, I would eventually John’s Tex Mex of history. find it an effortless and natural Toronto Pride every June, and plements, published separately Since that day almost 2.5 this year it should be something from this newspaper. thing to do. years ago, I have had the honor This of course never hap- special. (Send me your jpgs!) Globally, LGBTQs are getting of participating in many events, WorldPride, held in a dif- more visible all the time. Three pened. The youth at the Big Gay in the capacity of Board Mem- Prom were a very different youth ferent country each year, is “an million people or thereabouts ber as well as, more important- international celebration incor- attended the Brazil Pride Parade – free to experience life authen- ly, volunteer. I have attended tically and with those around porating activism, education, last month in Sao Paolo, the the SpeakOUT training mas- and the history and culture of world’s largest Pride – although them not thinking twice about terfully guided by our Exec- the normalcy of LGBTQ indi- global LGBTQ communities”. homophobic violence is ram- utive Director, Scott Fearing, Of course, communities viduals and their lifestyles. For a pant in that country. Courageous and Education Director, Jeanne short while, I found myself wish- around the world have many dif- activists also march in African, Gainsburg. Here I learned many ferent cultures and histories, not ing I’d had a similar experience Caribbean, Muslim and Eastern things about LGBTQ culture in my own time, but was quickly a single culture, and we know European countries, where they after making the misguid- that enormous diversity, includ- overtaken by an extreme feeling face a lot more than bullhorns ed assumption that I already of joy and pride in the fact that bronze Level ing race, religion, class hierarchies blaring homophobic lies. knew everything there was to and ethnic traditions, exists with- these kids were experiencing a Ameriprise Some gays can’t march at know about such things. As a very different world. in every LGBTQ community. all. The European Parliament’s gay male, there couldn’t pos- Canandaigua Some nations, like the Neth- I also found myself feeling Intergroup on LGBT Rights sibly be anything that I hadn’t proud that the less than opti- National Bank & Trust erlands, have relatively liberal his- reports: “Following the Russian been told or already experienced mal experiences of kids like me Corning Inc. tories, while others are intensely annexation of Crimea, lesbian, firsthand. were a factor in propelling the homophobic and gays there live gay, bisexual and transgender I couldn’t have been more Equal Grounds Coffee social change needed to make House in fear for their lives. A wave of individuals are now subject to wrong. I couldn’t have become today and the thoughts of an violence against LGBTQ people the Russian ‘anti-propaganda’ more enlightened. ever brightening future, a contin- Harter Secrest and Emery LLP is sweeping Africa, largely due law. In application of the law, Recently, I volunteered at the ued reality. to decades of hate-propaganda authorities in Sebastopol banned “Big Gay Prom”. As had been the Watching these kids on ImageOut by Western evangelicals. They the Pride march, which was due case with all of my prior experi- dance floor was like experienc- Jaegermeister claim that their religious faith to take place 22-23 April.” ences supporting the Agency, I ing the future unfolding right Kittleberger Florist and gives them the right to discrimi- The Empty Closet honors our found it to be a very enjoyable before my very eyes. These kids nate against, imprison and even brave sisters and brothers around and personally fulfilling experi- Gifts ■ are the next generation. These kill people they disapprove of – this country and the world. ence. kids are the face of tomorrow’s Labor Federation world and all of the positive Macy’s changes that future will bring. 06/14 New York Life Name These kids will teach in our schools, be the healthcare pro- Out and Equal NY Address fessionals to care for the aging Finger Lakes and will find their place in Outlandish City/State/Zip society as friends and neigh- Sky Vodka Phone bors and as moms and dads. Through these influences and St. John Fisher E-mail roles, these kids will leave a leg- Tompkins Enterprises acy more socially enlightened Victory Alliance Gay Alliance Membership Levels: than the last and pave the way ❏ $30-99 Advocate ❏ $100 Champion for continued social enlighten- Wegmans ❏ $1,000-4,999 Triangle Club ❏ $5,000+ Stonewall ment into the future. Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP ❏ Check enclosed in the amount of ______(check #______) I was extremely humbled to ch ampion Level Please charge my credit card in the amount of ______be a part of their evening, and To: ❏ American Express, ❏ Discover, ❏ MasterCard, ❏ Visa by the feeling of peace and hope- fulness that I experienced as a Mass Mutual of Buffalo Credit card # ______Exp. Date: ______result. Park Avenue ❏ I would be proud to have my donation publicly acknowledged. I humbly encourage each Merchants Association B enefits: Subscription to The Empty Closet mailed to home or work, of you to consider volunteering Pride @Work plus privileges at each level. Phone: 585 244-8640 or mail to: Gay Alliance, at an upcoming GAGV event. 875 E. Main St., Suite 500, Rochester, NY 14605. Home delivery of the Third Presbyterian Church Empty Closet is free with your annual membership. These are more than just events. These are the shaping moments The Woolbright Group in our life and culture. ■ HCR Home Care june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 3

them about transgender health, New York’s LGBT community. page one and it wouldn’t make a frac- The segment, aired in response tion of the impact that the panel to Rochester’s announcement at does,” said Professor Mathews. NewsFronts our Spring Dinner on Saturday (T oronto from page 1) Mathews and Parkhill hope that municipal employees will lery of Ontario, Ryerson Image that the personal touch of the have access to transition-related Centre, OCAD University, the panel discussion will leave a last- healthcare, contains sound bite Gardiner Museum and Buddies ing impact on their pharmacy after sound bite of misinforma- In Bad Times Theatre. students who can then knowl- L ocal and State tion and hate speech. Partial calendar of events edgably interact with transgen- “Not only did the hosts (most will be free to the public): der patients. In their study, they conflate sexual orientation and June 20: Media launch party note that transgender individu- gender identity and make the at the Hilton (before opening als have a high rate of HIV and ill-informed leap from medical- ceremony). Spectacular Opening other sexually transmitted infec- ly-necessary care to elective sur- Ceremony and flag raising (con- tions, mental health issues, and gery, they also degraded LGBT cert and fireworks) at Nathan suicide. identities more generally, includ- Phillips Square, 7 p.m. Headlin- Additionally, there are no ing the outrageous contention ers: Melissa Etheridge, Deborah physicians in Rochester who that transgender people are ‘nut Cox, Steve Grand. specialize in transgender care. jobs.’ June 20 – 29: WorldPride Since revealing that one is trans- “Transgender individuals 2014 Arts and Culture Festi- gender is medically necessary to face disproportionate disparities val (Art, Film, Theatre, Dance, receive proper care, knowledge when it comes to their health Burlesque, Comedy, Drag, of how to appropriately inter- and well-being, including this Music, Family and Youth Pro- act with transgender people is type of harassment as we’ve gramming, and much more for critical. Professor Parkhill noted seen on The Breakfast Buzz. all ages). the importance of open dialogue The American Medical Asso- June 24: AIDS Vigil in taking place with a pharmacist, ciation, the American Psycho- Cawthra Square Park. as lifestyle choices such as smok- logical Association and many June 25: WorldPride Gala ing and drinking may interact other organizations agree that and Awards. with the hormone therapy that transition-related health care is June 25-27: WorldPride may be taken during transition. medically necessary and should Human Rights Conference at According to their study, be covered under public insur- University College, University of Mathews and Parkhill found ance plans. Providing transgen- Toronto (there will be a public that following the discussion, 91 der New Yorkers with medically keynote speaker each day). percent of their students report- necessary health care is actually June 26: International Grand ed they could describe methods E ntercom fires on to discuss female trans ath- a cost-saving measure. Taxpayers will likely see savings related to Marshal and Human Rights for showing respect to a trans- 98.9 radio hosts letes, including one at a local Reception at U. of T. gender patient, and that 91 per- school, and how they should mental health, suicide attempts, June 27: Trans March (and cent of the students rated the for abusive definitely not be able to play HIV, substance abuse and other festival stages). usefulness of the panel discus- mockery of trans sports... “When he steps up to costs that occur when transgen- June 27-29: Streetfair and 10 sion as “very good” or “excel- the plate, doesn’t he have two der people cannot get their tran- free-to-attend open air festival lent.” people bats?” sition-related health care needs met. stages begin: Headliners include Professor Mathews reflected Mayor Lovely Warren Finally, a woman calls in to Martha Wash, Hercules and that several students are very tell them “it’s incredibly dis- “Rochester’s announcement announced at the Empire State that city employees will be cov- Love Affair, Carly Rae Jepsen, moved by the stories of the pan- Pride Agenda dinner May 17 respectful towards transgender Neon Hitch, Crystal Waters, elists. Even several students who people. Please don’t spread any ered is positive news that should that the city would be adding not be misguided by the igno- Chely Wright, Amanda Rheau- have strong religious faith feel transgender health benefits for misinformation especially when me, just to name a few. concerned with the health needs you’re joking about it.” rance of radio hosts looking employees and their families in for ratings. This offensive seg- June 28: Dyke March, Stone- of the panelists, and are more the city medical plan (see page 1). One of the hosts replies: wall 45th Anniversary (and festi- comfortable separating their reli- “Thank you, SIR” as the others ment underscores the need for The Democrat & Chroni- increased education and for the val stages). gious beliefs from their obliga- cle reported: “Under the new laugh. (Towleroad.com) June 29: WorldPride Parade tions as health care professionals. Thousands contacted the sta- passage of the Gender Expres- coverage, effective Jan. 1, city sion Non-Discrimination Act (and festival stages). “Doing the training here employees will be eligible to tion to protest the abusive state- June 29: WorldPride Closing gives the students a safe environ- ments and a Change.org petition (GENDA), so that all New York- receive services related to gen- ers know it’s not acceptable to Ceremony, including handover ment,” Mathews said. “They can der reassignment surgery, such got over 4,000 signatures in 24 to Madrid (Headliners: Tegan ask the questions. They can be hours. Members of the trans discriminate against someone as medical and psychological just because of who they are.” and Sara and more). curious. They can think about counseling, hormone therapy community and Scott Fearing Connect: WP14TO.com / things they haven’t thought and cosmetic and reconstructive were interviewed on TV news. facebook.com/WP14TO / twit- about. I think most of our stu- ■ surgeries.” On May 22, Entercom, ter.com/WP14TO dents leave that panel session That news caught the eye owner of the radio station, Want the and highlight it as one of the of 98.9 Breakfast Buzz morn- issued a statement: “This morn- real facts on best things while they’re here.” ing radio hosts Kimberly and ing Entercom fired Kimberly transgender? (Pharmacy from page 1) Professor Parkhill added that Beck who took the opportunity and Beck effective immediately. many currently practicing phar- See the premiere of “Just Pharmaceutical Sciences at the to unleash a torrent of mock- Their hateful comments against Gender” 7pm on June 5 at Wegmans School of Pharma- macists also come to listen to ery upon trans people during a the transgender community do the Little Theater. cy at St. John Fisher College, the panel, and many transgender sarcastic 12-minute segment in not represent our station or our (More on page 27) are educating their students to stereotypes are dissipated. After- which they cackled about geni- company. We deeply apologize be culturally sensitive, phasing ward, many attendees feel the talia and insulted a caller who to the transgender community, out the initial apprehension stu- need to inform their co-workers dialed in to tell them how offen- the community of Rochester, B ianca Del Rio dents may feel in determining at the pharmacy of the discus- sive they were. and anyone else who was offend- comes to Buffalo a transgender person’s unique sion, Parkhill said. Some of the choice quotes: ed by their hateful comments. Pride on June 1 medicinal needs at the pharmacy Mallory Livingston, through “Transgender or gender non- We are proud of our past work counter. Each year, they team her work with the Transgen- conforming. What the hell does on behalf of the local LGBT A vibrant celebration of up with the Gay Alliance of the der Alliance, is sometimes that mean? Like you’re not a community and we remain com- the entire LGBTQ communi- Genesee Valley to present a two- asked for the names of “trans- woman or a man?? mitted to that partnership. -Sue ty, Buffalo and WNY’s Pride hour panel discussion to their gender-friendly” pharmacists in “The dude can look like a Munn Vice-President/General Parade, on Sunday, June 1, fea- first-year pharmacy students on her area. However, she notes lady and the city is going to pay Manager Entercom Rochester.” tures RuPaul winner Bianca transgender sensitivity. “When that a pharmacy that is well for it!” (cue “Dude Looks Like a Kimberly said May 21 in Del Rio, floats, performances, we’ve looked, there are no phar- versed in the needs of transgen- Lady” music) a tweet (Twitter account since and participants from over 100 macy schools that have a big der individuals is not exactly “Does that mean then if deleted) responding to the con- organizations. focus on [LGBT education] yet,” well advertised. While Livings- women want a boob job they’ll troversy, “freedom of speech This year the parade will Professor Parkhill said. ton is appreciative of the strides pay for a boob job because that’s includes the freedom to offend step off at 1 p.m. at Elmwood According to their study, A the staff at her local pharma- only right.” others.” She and Beck issued an Avenue and Forest Avenue and Transgender Health Care Panel cy has made in understanding “The services that will be apology on May 23. travel south on Elmwood to Discussion in a Required Diver- transgender care, she noted the paid for under the new coverage GLAAD stated, “These com- Allen Street. sity Course, published in the constant pedagogy was tiring. - gender reassignment surgery, ments were insulting and ignore Now in its 23rd year, the May issue of the American Jour- “The things that my pharmacist PSYCHOLOGICAL COUN- statements from the American Buffalo & WNY Pride Festi- nal of Pharmaceutical Educa- learned over time, it would be SELING, because you’re prob- Medical Association, the Ameri- val, following the Parade on tion, the panel consists of two nice if they knew that coming ably a NUTJOB to begin with!” can Psychological Association, Canalside, features live enter- male-to-female individuals and out of school. I’m a customer, “It’s a slippery slope. Then if and the American Psychiatric tainment, family activities, food two female-to-male individu- not a teacher,” Livingston said. some woman can go to a doctor Association affirming that treat- and gift vendors, a bar, a Retro als. The panelists describe their Both Livingston and Professor and it’d be proven that she’s got ments for transgender people Dance tent and information backgrounds and their experi- Mathews recommend keeping mental issues because her rack’s are safe, effective, and medically tables from local organizations ences at the pharmacy, and stu- up-to-date notes in a patient’s not big enough then you know necessary.” and businesses. dents are free to ask them general file as a simple way to keep all what? she deserves a boob job, Nathan Schaefer, ED of the This year, RuPaul’s Drag or pharmacy-specific questions. pharmaceutical staff members right Kimberly? Or she deserves Empire State Pride Agenda, said, Race winner Bianca Del Rio “Some of these small com- informed, so the patient does not liposuction.” “The ignorant and transpho- will emcee the Pride Festival munities that we’re drawing have to repeat their background “Right, IF YOU CAN bic segment that recently aired at Canalside. She’ll be joined students from, it’s not a conver- and needs each time they stop by PROVE YOU’RE A NUT, I on Rochester’s radio show, The by musical headliners Dev and sation they’re having… we could the pharmacy. guess.” Breakfast Buzz with Kimberly The Cliks as well as many stand up there all day and teach (Pharmacy continues page 6) Kimberly and Beck then go & Beck, is highly offensive to (B uffalo continues page 6) 4 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

recent months. Judge Piazza held that married couples.” there is no good reason for discriminat- The lawsuit is separate from the origi- ing against couples and their loved ones nal federal case challenging Utah’s mar- NewsFronts just because they are gay. With near- riage ban, which is on appeal before the ly 70 marriage cases now making their U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Cir- way through the courts, and five federal cuit. That case was brought by the law appellate courts now hearing arguments firm of Magleby & Greenwood on behalf national and international and soon to rule, today’s decision out of of three other couples. The ACLU filed a Arkansas underscores that all of America friend-of-the-court brief in that case. is ready for the freedom to marry.” For more information on this case, A record-high 59% of Americans sup- please visit: www.aclu.org/lgbt-rights/ port marriage for same-sex couples. 50% evans-v-utah of Southerners support marriage, with Evan Wolfson, president of Freedom only 42% opposed. to Marry, released the following state- RELATED: Inevitably, Teabagger ment: “More than 1,300 committed cou- State Sen. Rappert is calling for impeach- ples paid their fees, were issued marriage ment of the judge. licenses, stood before family and friends, and got married – and the court was right F ederal judge says Utah to hold that they should be treated as what they are: married. Many others also must recognize legal want to take on that legal commitment marriages and are being denied, and the litigation continues, as must our work in Utah and A federal judge ordered the state on nationwide. The appeals courts and the May 19 to recognize the marriages of Supreme Court should rule against mar- same-sex couples who were legally mar- riage discrimination, just as the judge did ried in Utah after a federal court struck today. America is ready for the freedom down a state ban, but before the U.S. to marry.” Supreme Court temporarily halted addi- tional marriages from taking place. Over 1,000 same-sex couples married M aine Ethics in Utah during that time period. Commission: NOM The couples are represented by Ameri- violated election law can Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Utah, and Strindberg & Scholnick, LLC, In the strongest governmental action who sought the preliminary injunction for taken to date against the National Orga- the marriages to be recognized while their nization for Marriage (NOM), the Maine A rkansas judge strikes Judge Chris Piazza’s ruling striking down lawsuit continues. Commission on Governmental Ethics and the state’s gay marriage ban because it “Our clients, like over 1,000 other Election Practices staff on May 19 issued down marriage ban; wasn’t a final ruling. It also denied a same-sex couples, were legally married a report concluding that NOM intention- couples rush for licenses request for an emergency stay of the rul- and those marriages cannot now be taken ally violated Maine law by failing to regis- ing, the Arkansas Times reports: The away from them,” said John Mejia, legal ter or report its activities despite playing a On May 9, Judge Chris Piazza of court, however, seems to have returned director of the ACLU of Utah. “While central role in co-managing and funding Arkansas upheld same-sex couples’ free- we await a permanent decision, we are a $3 million marriage referendum cam- dom to marry, striking down the state’s the state to its old status quo — impos- sible for same-sex couples to obtain mar- relieved that our clients will receive the paign in 2009. discriminatory constitutional amendment full recognition they deserve as lawfully “The staff views NOM’s failure to and becoming one of more than a dozen riage licenses — because it notes that Piazza’s ruling didn’t mention another married couples.” register and file financial reports as a sig- judges to rule in favor of the freedom to The preliminary injunction is not a nificant violation of law,” the report states. marry since last year’s Supreme Court statute that prohibits clerks from issuing marriage licenses to same sex couples. permanent order, but it reflects the court’s “Maine people deserve to know who is decision in U.S. v. Windsor. determination that the plaintiffs are likely funding political campaigns to influence Hundreds of gay couples began fil- Action will now shift to Piazza’s court to pursue final orders, injunctive relief and a to prevail on their legal claims and would their vote.” ing into the Pulaski County Arkansas suffer irreparable harm if their marriages The report recommends civil penalties courthouse to be issued marriage licenses, cleanup on the omitted statute. Said Jack Wagoner, attorney for the were stripped of recognition. The order against NOM totaling $50,250 and that fearing that a stay might be imposed (see was given a 21-day stay to allow the state NOM be directed to register as a ballot below). plaintiffs: “We’ll fix that tomorrow and to respond. question committee and file campaign The Associated Press reports: An be back here again.... How can order find In his ruling, Judge Dale A. Kimball finance reports reflecting its contributions Arkansas clerk issued the state’s first gay something unconstitutional but not affect wrote: “The State has placed Plaintiffs and expenditures in support of the 2009 marriage license on Saturday, May 10, a statute that would require the clerks to and their families in a state of legal limbo Maine referendum. The full Commission breaking a barrier that voters put in place do something unconstitutional?” with respect to adoptions, child care and voted on the recommendation at its meet- with a constitutional amendment 10 years Justices Donald Corbin and Paul Dan- custody, medical decisions, employment ing on May 28, after EC press time. ago. Carroll County Deputy Clerk Jane ielson issued a separate concurrence that and health benefits, future tax implica- The report comes days after a federal Osborn issued a license Saturday morn- said they simply would have dismissed the tions, inheritance, and many other prop- district judge in Oregon rejected NOM’s ing to Kristin Seaton, 27, and Jennifer appeal for lack of a final order and reject- erty and fundamental rights associated request to intervene in a case challeng- Rambo, 26, of Fort Smith. They had slept ed the emergency stay request because the with marriage. These legal uncertainties ing that state’s ban on same-sex mar- in a Ford Focus after arriving in Eureka case is still before the trial court. and lost rights cause harm each day that riage. NOM filed an emergency motion Springs at 2 a.m. Saturday and were the Judge Chris Piazza struck down the the marriage is not recognized.” with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals first of about 10 couples to line up out- secondary ban on May 16, and marriages “We are grateful that the court has to stay marriages in anticipation of the side of the courthouse before it opened. resumed on May 17. stepped in to prevent the state from strip- court’s ruling in the case. When the license was issued, Rambo Evan Wolfson, president of Freedom ping recognition from legally valid mar- “This detailed investigative report said, “Thank God.” Seaton and Rambo, to Marry, released the following state- riages that have already taken place,” once and for all exposes NOM’s funda- who have been together four years, then ment: said Joshua Block, staff attorney with mental mission to secretly and illegally held a marriage ceremony on the court- “Today a state circuit judge in Arkan- the ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual and funnel contributions from a few large house steps. A woman in a rainbow dress sas ruled in favor of the freedom to marry, Transgender Project. “The court’s deci- unnamed donors to its extreme politi- officiated. the latest in a unanimous wave of favor- sion allows these committed couples to cal causes,” said Human Rights Cam- On May 14, the Arkansas Supreme able rulings from more than a dozen state move forward with their lives with the paign (HRC) President Chad Griffin. Court dismissed the state’s appeal of and federal judges across the country in same protections and security as any other “NOM was formed to be an illegal pass- june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 5 through for a few secret donors to fund “Today Judge McShane did the right discrimination against LGBT Americans. thing for families, affirming that the Maine’s regulators have caught on and denial of marriage to committed same- said enough is enough.” sex couples in Oregon is unconstitutional. Over the past four years, following a In recognition of the strong support for complaint by Fred Karger, the Commis- marriage among Oregonians, no one with sion conducted the most detailed inves- legal standing, including our state Attor- tigation of NOM’s activities to date. The ney General, wanted to go down in his- investigation included deposing NOM’s tory as defending discrimination. Across head Brian Brown and subpoenaing doc- the country, the courts agree: same-sex uments, both of which were critical to couples and their families need the protec- uncovering the grand scheme to violate tions of marriage, and anti-marriage laws state disclosure requirements. The investi- are indefensible. With over 70 marriage gation was significantly delayed by a series cases now making their way through the of lawsuits initiated by NOM intend- courts, today’s decision in Oregon under- ed to stonewall the investigation. NOM scores that all of America is ready for the appealed unsuccessfully all the way to the freedom to marry.” U.S. Supreme Court in its effort to evade A poll by Oregon Public Broadcasting Maine’s public disclosure law. in late April found that 58% of Orego- Among other findings, the 37-page nians support the freedom to marry. The investigative report found that NOM Oregon ruling is the latest in more than a played the critical leadership role in the dozen federal and state rulings in favor of 2009 referendum campaign. Political the freedom to marry in recent months. consultants close to NOM had significant “We are delighted that Judge Michael leadership positions within the campaign McShane has finally brought a decade and NOM was by far the largest donor. of uncertainty to a close with his ruling. The Commission determined that NOM Thousands of LGBTQ couples will be cel- failed to tell the truth when it stated that ebrating today across Oregon and around it made no expenditures to promote the the nation. We are another step closer to referendum other than by monetary con- marriage equality everywhere for every- tributions. one. This victory would not have been The 2009 Maine referendum was by possible without the leadership of Oregon far the most important project for NOM United for Marriage who are: Basic Rights that year. NOM spent 32 percent of Oregon, Human Rights Campaign, Free- its total funds in 2009 on the Maine dom to Marry, ACLU of OR, ACLU campaign. The report cites internal doc- National, SEIU of OR, American Unity uments and depositions showing the stra- Fund, Gill Action, and countless other tegic importance of Maine and the deep Task Force Action Fund staff and volun- financial commitment NOM made to the teers, “ said Rea Carey, Executive Direc- campaign. tor, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force NOM promised its donors anonymity Action Fund. if they gave directly to NOM. According The lawsuit alleged that Oregon’s con- to the report, “NOM intentionally set up stitutional ban on marriage for lesbian its fundraising strategy to avoid donor dis- and gay couples—Measure 36—violates closure laws.” the U.S. Constitution. NOM sent out a series of e-mails The consolidated case—Gei- specifically soliciting contributions from ger v. Kitzhaber, filed on October 13, Maine and received contributions suf- 2013, and Rummell v. Kitzhaber, filed ficient to require it to register as a ballot on December 19, 2013—was argued question committee. on April 23, 2014. Attorneys Lake Per- NOM also qualified as a ballot ques- riguey (Law Works, LLC) and Lea Ann tion committee through contributions Easton (Dorsay & Easton, LLP), argued from major donors. The report noted that on behalf of plaintiff couples Deanna in 2009, NOM raised 75% of its rev- Geiger and Janine Nelson, and Robert enue from 14 major donors. Contrary to Duehmig and William Griesar. Attorneys NOM’s representations, the report found Rose Saxe and Amanda Goad (Ameri- that “the basic elements of NOM’s com- can Civil Liberties Union), Kevin Diaz munications are known, and they indicate (ACLU of Oregon), and volunteer coun- that NOM told major donors in 2009 sel Misha Isaak and Tom Johnson (Per- about NOM’s activities in support of kins Coie, LLP), and Jennifer Middleton the Maine referendum and NOM’s spe- (Johnson, Johnson & Schaller, PC), cific commitment to financially support argued on behalf of two additional cou- the Maine referendum.” NOM failed to ples — Paul Rummell and Ben West, and disclose these donors in accordance with Chris Tanner and Lisa Chickadonz—and state law. Basic Rights Education Fund. The report further explains that there “The importance of Judge McShane’s are no mitigating circumstances that decision cannot be overemphasized,” said would warrant a lesser penalty. The inves- David Fidanque, executive director of the tigation notes that NOM had experience ACLU of Oregon. “Our federal Consti- in filing campaign finance reports, is a tution does not allow any state – or its sophisticated political advocacy organiza- voters – to deny same sex couples equal tion and had legal counsel. Instead, NOM protection under the law simply because made a “deliberate decision” not to regis- of who they are and who they love. This ter in order to hide its donors from pub- type of discrimination is wrong and it’s lic view. In fact, the report states, “NOM also unconstitutional.” never intended to file financial reports “Our clients Deanna Geiger and with the Commission. After considering Janine Nelson and Bob Duehig and Bill the information gathered in the investiga- Griesar are grateful the Attorney General, tion, the staff’s view is that harm to the Governor, Ms. Woodward and Mr. Wal- public caused by NOM’s non-compliance ruff carefully considered their position in the 2009 election was too serious to and so clearly articulated Oregon’s posi- warrant a waiver.” tion that it values our relationships and commitments to each other and our fami- O regon judge rules lies,” said Lee Ann Easton, an attorney at Dorsay & Easton who, with co-coun- against marriage ban sel Lake Periguey, filed the Geiger case. On May 19 Judge Michael McShane “They are very pleased the District Court struck down Oregon’s discriminato- adopted their position along with the ry state constitutional amendment that Rummell plaintiffs in his decision. With denies committed gay couples the free- this advancement of civil rights, gay and dom to marry, ruling that it violates the lesbian Oregonians are now equal under U.S. Constitution. the law.” The decision follows a last-minute “After years of working in every way attempt by the anti-gay group National possible way to bring the freedom to Organization for Marriage (NOM) to marry to Oregon, today is a historic day,” intervene in Oregon’s marriage case, a said Vanessa Usui, board chair of Basic motion denied by Judge McShane. Rights Education Fund. “Starting with a Thalia Zepatos, director of public ballot measure, and ultimately with this engagement at Freedom to Marry and a court victory, we have finally ensured that key adviser to Oregon United for Mar- all loving, committed same-sex couples riage, released the following statement: ( Oregon continues page 12) 6 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

NYS Senator Ted O’Brien, NYS Assem- page one blymember Harry Bronson, Rochester Mayor Warren, City Council members Haag and Elaine Spaull, and long-time Pharmacy local activist Evelyn Bailey, who received ( from page 3) the Community Service Award. Dr. Bernard Lee, a Pharmacist at All Evelyn Bailey wins Community Ser- Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Fla., vice Award agrees that more education for the phar- Evelyn Bailey is an educator, political maceutical profession is necessary. Not- activist and historian. Her work to sup- ing that a majority of pharmacists are on port the Shoulders To Stand On project the ambulatory side in the community, under the auspices of the Gay Alliance of “The pharmacist is the most accessible the Genesee Valley is becoming nationally of all health care providers,” Lee said. To recognized. Among her many accomplish- avoid any awkward encounters, Lee rec- ments, Evelyn was Executive Producer of ommends asking the patient up front how the landmark documentary film, “Shoul- they would like to be addressed person- ders To Stand On,” and is the director ally as much as the pharmacist would per- of the Roots Chronology Program that sonalize their medication for them. “The chronicled and digitized the 40-plus year Dr. Bill Valenti of Trillium accepts the check. pronoun game of he/she becomes very publishing history of The Empty Closet awkward. It sets the tone for [the trans- newspaper. The “Shoulders To Stand On” G.R.E.A.T. Bowling Tournament was a great success gender patient] already that someone is documentary, co-produced and directed going to get this wrong,” Lee said. by Kevin Indovino, was screened last The bowlers look forward to this uniquely entertaining tournament every year. A While the results of their assessment month at the Human Rights Campaign dedicated group of volunteers work tirelessly to organize the fun that has been helping to following the panel discussion at the headquarters in Washington D.C., and raise money for Trillium Health (formerly AIDS Rochester and AIDS Care) since 1988. Wegmans School of Pharmacy are posi- will be aired on WXXI on June 3. In those 26 years, they have generated over $250K in the fight against HIV and AIDS. tive, there was a low response rate when “Through my activism and volun- Held on the first weekend of May each year, this year’s tournament at Clover Lanes Mathews and Parkhill surveyed other teerism, I have met so many incredibly had a cowboy theme and needless to say everyone had fun dressing the part. pharmacy schools about the amount of courageous, passionate men and women Trillium says, “The care providers at Trillium Health are so very grateful for the won- time they spent teaching about LGBT fighting for their right to be free to be who derful community of support found in the greater Rochester area that we serve. All are sensitivity. While schools in coastal loca- they are -- whether they are gay, straight, committed to extending our sensitive, affirming approach to care, to everyone in our tions showed interest in adopting a similar gender variant, or allies,” said Bailey in LGBTQ communities seeking better health.” panel discussion into their curriculums, her acceptance speech. “For each one the response rate from schools in other the journey out of their own ‘closets’ was areas was negligible. filled with fear -- fear of the consequenc- Although the sluggish response from es and rejection and at the same time a other pharmacy schools is discouraging, greater fear of remaining oppressed, un- congregation – creative, progressive and the panel discussion at the Wegmans free and unable to be who they are. The trying to make a difference. Despite hav- School is heading into its eighth year. “I personal courage and risk taken by all of ing launched a nationwide search, the hope that we are creating students that will you to be out, to live your lives openly and church’s Search Committee was delighted be leaders in the community. They’re going honestly as allies, as LGBTQI men and to learn of Steven’s interest and to be able to feel empowered based on the informa- women, has created a better environment to find the perfect candidate right in its tion they’ve learned. They feel empowered of acceptance and freedom that is still des- own backyard. to be advocates. They feel empowered to perately needed today.” He joined the church in November say if something is wrong and to make as it embarked on a building project ■ Evelyn says working on the Shoul- positive change,” Mathews said. ders to Stand On project was life-altering intended to make it fully accessible and and she challenged the audience to get in compliance with ADA guidelines. The involved. She also explained that family congregation was an early adopter of an and community connections, history and “open to all” philosophy but its 1960s-era (ESPA from page 1) roots are extremely important to her. She building with narrow doors, stairs and the health and well-being of transgender concluded, “Being free to be who I am no ramps left members feeling they were employees and also send a message to the in all areas of my life has been a driving coming up short with respect to handicap rest of our state that we need to provide force of integration and growth. There accessibility. Rev. Price says the project is medically-necessary care to all transgen- are no words to express my gratitude to not why he felt called to the church but der New Yorkers.” everyone for your time, dedication, ener- rather it confirms what he felt about the He added, “Rochester has long been gy and commitment to this extraordinary membership: that they are willing to put a leader on LGBT civil rights and this is community archival and documentary their money where their mouths are. just one more example of how this great project. The challenge for all of us is not His intent for his first year is to city sets a strong example for the rest of to rest on our accomplishments. There is respectfully observe the congregation and still much work to be done. So I challenge learn how it operates before formulating a New York State.” Norm Geil and Rev. Steven Price. “I would like to acknowledge and you to get involved, to become activists to formal Vision. The church’s structure is different from many in that it has a very thank Councilmember Haag and the make equality and justice for all a reality (now Colgate Rochester Crozer Divin- City’s Labor Management Healthcare in your own lives and in the lives of our active and consultative laity that is includ- ■ ity School) and began his career with a ed in all major decisions. He wants to Committee for helping to make Roch- brothers and sisters.” dual focus, concurrently serving as Pastor ester’s healthcare policies relevant to all continue to pursue the social justice con- of the Pembroke Community Church in versation that is at the core of the church’s of our citizens,” said Mayor Warren at local Genesee County and as Staff Chaplain the event. “Eliminating barriers to health at Strong Memorial Hospital. Steven felt identity. Steven admits with a smile that care is simply the right thing to do. The and state called to work within the field of HIV, the vision he thought would guide the City was the first to support domestic so he left those positions to join AIDS church is already going in a direction dif- partnerships and I am happy that we lead ferent from what he had expected. ( Buffalo continued from page 3) Rochester, where his most-recent full-time the effort to equalize benefits for all once position was as Senior Director of Com- But what is not unexpected is the way again.” more bands and performers. A suggested munity Health Initiatives. In that capac- the church embraces everyone “What I “For more than a year, I’ve worked $5 donation is appreciated and will be ity, his duties included administration of love is that right now we have two preg- with two administrations to ensure the accepted at the entrance gate. HIV community education and outreach nant women in the congregation. One is Trans* community’s full participation in Visit www.BuffaloPrideFestival.com programs throughout the Finger Lakes a straight woman while the other is a les- our city. I am so pleased that since the for additional event details and informa- Region. bian. Both are embraced with love and beginning of her administration, Mayor tion. The unexpected fork in the path that joyful expectation. There’s no difference. Warren has joined me in working to brought Steven to the church has actu- Straight couples, gay couples, seniors, achieve this goal,” said Haag. “Together, R ev. Steve Price ally been years in the making, though it youth – everyone is valued and respected in God’s eyes and in the practices of Com- we have worked to ensure that City of becomes pastor at only became apparent a few months ago. Rochester employees, their spouses, and Over the past 15 years, Steven has served munity Christian Church.” dependents will have the fullest gender Community Christian Community Christian Church (Disciples The community is invited to visit the affirming benefits our insurer provides. I Church on June 8 of Christ/UCC) periodically as both a church’s website – www.cccopentoall.org am pleased that Rochester is now stepping guest preacher and in an interim minis- - or to stop by for Sunday service (11 a.m. up to provide a Trans* inclusive health After spending 19 years at Trillium ter capacity. Each time he sensed the joy- through the end of June; 10 a.m. sum- policy for all city employees.” Health (formerly AIDS Care), Rev. Ste- ful spirit of a community that embraced mer hours). The church is fully handicap- The Spring Dinner in Rochester is one ven Price didn’t think his future Sunday diversity. He enjoyed the occasional Sun- accessible. of the signature fundraising events for the mornings would be spent in a pulpit, but day spent preaching and had no plans to statewide civil rights advocacy organiza- he now finds himself there. leave Trillium Health. A ssemblymember tion. Featuring a cocktail reception, a Rev. Price is wrapping up his first few But last summer, Steven hit a mile- presentation of the Community Service months at Community Christian Church, stone birthday, turning 50, and as his Bronson introduces bill Award and a live auction, the Spring Din- 2647 Chili Ave., and will officially be husband Norm was turning 65, he found to help trans people ner raised more than $100,000 and drew installed in a ceremony at the church on it to be a time of reflection and prioritiz- seeking name change over 500 guests to celebrate and show June 8 at 3 p.m. That day will be a dual ing. While he valued his work at Trillium support for the Pride Agenda’s work. celebration, since following the morning Health, he felt he was being called back to By Susan Jordan This year’s event boasted many service the church will also be dedicat- a parish-based ministry, but it had to be Assemblymember Harry B. Bron- celebrities and elected officials. They ing new handicap-accessible space, truly the “right” congregation for him to make son (D-Rochester/Chili/Henrietta) included host Stephen Wallem from making the church open to all in the com- that move. He then learned that Com- announced on May 14 that he is intro- Showtime’s “Nurse Jackie,” Keynote munity. munity Christian’s pastor was leaving to ducing legislation to protect the personal speaker NYS Senator Brad Hoylman, Steven received his Master of Divinity take a position in Texas to be closer to her safety and privacy of victims of domestic US Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, from Colgate Rochester Divinity School family. Steven knew this was the “right” violence as well as transgender individu- june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 7

als (A.9409). In 2009, the Supreme Court of West- bill came to my attention because of a application if there is a threat – actual “Acts of domestic violence and dis- chester County ruled that the civil rights trans person I represented who wanted or potential – and this would lower the crimination have no place in our soci- law authorizes the waiver of publication of to change his name to match his gender. burden on the applicant to get a waiver ety,” said Assemblymember Bronson. “We a name change order if such publication Under current NYS law you have the right in the application publication require- must protect victims of domestic violence would jeopardize the safety of the indi- to apply to the court for a name change as ment. Anyone trying to find out this and transgender individuals who may be vidual seeking the name change. Unfor- long as you aren’t trying to avoid creditors sealed information would have to get a at risk of such deplorable acts. The pro- tunately, some courts require an actual or criminal charges. It’s a relatively simple court order. California passed such a law, tections afforded in this bill are vital to showing of past violence to meet the “per- process. which became effective in January. New ensuring the personal safety of many of sonal safety waiver” standard. Bringing “But the application, and the appli- York would be the second state to have our fellow New Yorkers.” state statute into accordance with the need cant’s address, must be published in a such a law.” The bill authored by Assemblymem- for full personal safety is an important newspaper, so any creditors can see it. Bronson explained, “The way we ber Bronson would limit or waive the step toward ensuring these waiver protec- The court has the option to waive that developed the bill is if the petition for information that is required to be pub- tions are available to individuals who need requirement if publication would jeopar- name change is to avoid potential or actu- lished when individuals choose to legally them, noted Assemblymember Bronson. dize the personal safety of an applicant. al hate crimes, stalking, domestic violence change their names in order to avoid acts Roughly 450,000 incidents of domes- This comes into play in two scenarios: or sexual assault – OR if the applicant is of violence or discrimination, or to con- tic violence are reported in New York state domestic violence and if an applicant’s filing to seek name change in cases involv- form with their gender identity or gender each year, and in 2012, state courts issued personal safety has been threatened. ing gender identity or expression. expression. Specifically, the bill would over 300,000 orders of protection. At the “The statute doesn’t require proof of “Even though we want to pass GENDA make this waiver available to individuals same time, nearly 30 percent of transgen- that, but some courts have required proof at the state level, to offer protection to attempting to avoid potential or actual der New Yorkers have experienced serious of domestic abuse or threats – that’s under trans or gender-non-conforming people, domestic violence, stalking, hate crimes physical or sexual assault. the current law. this bill is another step to offer protection or sexual assault. Bronson told The Empty Closet, “The “The new bill would allow a sealed ( Bronson continues page 12)

Whether you’re happily coupled, single and looking, new to the scene or just someone who wants that connection to the Interview community, Ambush makes you feel like you’ve come home.

rest is history.” So far the group has had five Roch- ester events. Sady said, “For us, we have a special place in our hearts for our first event at One Nightclub. We weren’t sure how successful it was going to be, espe- cially since there had been a snowstorm the night before. As the night picked up, we counted over 100 people. Several women approached us and told us how amazing it felt for them to be a part of such a queer-friendly event. That night has been the standard for us, and we work hard every month to make the experience great. We want to make sure that all the women and allies coming to Ambush feel welcome, a part of the community.” The next Rochester Ambush event will be Friday, June 6, at Captain’s Attic, 37 Charlotte St., from 5:30-10 p.m. Sady said, “We’re especially excited about our Pride Ambush Rochester on July 11, 5:30- Susanna Speed and Sady Fischer. 10 p.m., at Tilt Nightclub! Not only will At an Ambush Rochester event. we have special Pride events going on, but nothing else like it. Whether you’re hap- A mbush Rochester we’ll also have drag king performances. pily coupled, single and looking, new to Fischer and Susanna Speed. We’re expecting a BIG turnout!” the scene or just someone who wants that By Susan Jordan Sady Fischer says, “The first time we Women can get involved in many connection to the community, Ambush The concept of lesbians and queer encountered Ambush was a little over a ways. Sady notes, “We’d love to have makes you feel like you’ve come home. women “ambushing” a straight bar is not year ago in Buffalo. There had been rum- someone regularly take pictures for us It’s an opportunity to connect with old new. But Christina, T. and Dana were the blings on Facebook about it here and there at the monthly Ambush. We’re currently friends, meet new people, support local first to do it in Rochester. and we were curious so we checked out working with Cathie Timian to create venues and become a part of the growing The basic idea of Ambush Buffalo and the Facebook page. Once we saw from a logo for Ambush Rochester and we’re Ambush Rochester energy. Plus, the danc- Ambush Rochester is to create a space for the pictures how many queer women really excited about her ideas. Another ing is so much fun!” queer women to congregate once a month were attending the event, we obviously way people can help is by getting Roch- Sady and fellow organizers want to at a venue that is traditionally straight. wanted to hop onboard! Knowing there ester bars and nightclubs on board. Our encourage queer-identified women and “One of the reasons Ambush is so success- wasn’t a (strictly) lesbian bar in Rochester, event generates a lot of revenue for Roch- allies to check out the Ambush events. ful is because it attracts a diverse crowd. we realized that we wanted to start the ester venues and we want to really col- “We have a Facebook page with our infor- It’s also very low maintenance. Some party here too. We started spreading the laborate with and support all the local mation and we are always here to answer people pop in after work for the happy word to local community organizations hot spots.” questions about the events. If you’re look- hour fun and others stay all night. There’s and friends about Ambush Rochester, and When asked what makes Ambush ing for a low-key lesbian/bi/queer-friendly always a great energy, amazing music and together we worked with Christina, T. worthwhile to her, Sady replied, “For us, space to go in Rochester, Ambush Roch- LOTS of dancing,” say organizers Sady and Dana to get things rolling here. The Ambush is worthwhile because there’s ester is a great option!”■

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Celebrating 12 years helping people make diet choices for their dogs and cats [email protected] • www.naturalpetfoodscompany.com 8 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014 june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 9 10 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014 Making the Scene

Thomas Warfield performs in the revue.

Rochester fans followed Darienne’s adventures last month on “RuPaul’s Drag Race”.

BIG GAY PROM: The Gay Alliance Youth Group held the ’80s Zombie Prom on May 3 MORE THAN US: The Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus hosted a fundraiser dinner and at Diplomat Party House. Around 130 youth attended. At right, the zombie make-up musical revue on May 10 at Zeppa Auditorium. The inimitable Darienne Lake was M.C. booth at the Prom. More photos page 30. Photos: Jill Frier

place several days a week at Little, which I love.” Open Arms MCC, under the When asked where he auspices of the Gay Alliance (see would take out-of-town page 31). friends, Tom said, “I’d He said, “I hope more people take them to Wegmans will start coming. Right now we – I like the Food Court. have anywhere from five to a And also the museums: dozen people per class. It’s been the Eastman Museum popular and I feel we’ve helped of Photography, Artisan people with illnesses. It’s impor- Works, the Strong Muse- tant that older people exercise, as um – they are unique well as having a social connec- to Rochester. Also we’d tion. You can do it on a chair or go to the Planetarium – on the floor – it’s actually geared which I think is one of to ‘yoga in a chair’. the oldest in the country.” “It’s really for everybody. We Tom says he left Cali- Tom confesses, “I love going fornia to return to Rochester for even have a few non-gays. We to the movies. I would see a talk and laugh and have fun.” what he thought would be just movie every day of the week if enough time to get his degree. Another of Tom’s favor- I could. So on an ideal Satur- ite local organizations/events “But it’s been 20 years now! The day night I’d be at the Cinema, only thing I don’t like is the is Image Out. “I’m very proud Movies 10, the Dryden or the ■ of ImageOut,” he said. “It has weather.” Tom Somerville at Equal=Grounds. Photo: Susan Jordan become a nationally recognized festival.” About his favorite people, M y Own Private ing a Friday art class at the he commented, “I want to give MOCHA Center, for people credit to Jeffery Young, the yoga Rochester: Tom with HIV. One yoga class that Somerville means a lot to him is the Rain- teacher who helped me when bow SAGE class, which takes I broke my back. I was bare- By Susan Jordan ly walking when I got to Jef- Tom Somerville, artist and fery. He was key to me walking yoga instructor, is a Rochester again.” native, although he has lived in Tom’s favorite places include NYC, San Diego, St. Thomas Equal=Grounds (he loves the (Virgin Islands) and elsewhere. salads) and he adds, “I also love He has lived for 15 years now in Highland Park, an amazing the South Wedge neighborhood resource.” area, and currently shares his As a film buff, Tom says, “I home with a cat, a dog, a parrot, go to the Cinema every Sunday a cockatiel, a rabbit and an affec- night for their senior double fea- tionate rat. ture. A bunch of us sit together. As Tom puts it, “I am a And I like Marshall Street Grill painter – starving artist – so on Monroe for their turkey club! I supplement my income as a I’m on the fringe of being a veg- yoga instructor – the two things etarian, but when people ask I I love.” say I’m ‘an opportunistic scav- Tom also teaches art, includ- enger’!” june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 11

ESPA SPRING DINNER: Over 500 guests attended the Empire State Pride Agenda’s 15th Annual Spring Dinner at the Riverside Convention Center on May 17. L-R: ESPA ED Nathan Schaefer, Evelyn Bailey and Jonathan Lang. Story on p. 1.Photo: Ove Overmyer Bess Watts, Rep. Louise Slaughter, Ove Overmyer. Photo: Anne Tischer

NYS Senator Brad Hoylman, NYS Assemblymember Harry Bronson and NYS Senator Christopher Alonzo, City Council member Elaine Spaull and Quentin Roach. Photo: Ted O’Brien. Photo: Ove Overmyer Ove Overmyer

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WWW.HUTHERDOYLE.COM 12 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

M assMutual ranks #3 on is so critically important that we strive to local keep pace with the evolving U.S. popu- and state Top Companies for LGBT lation,” said Mike Fanning, Executive Employees list Vice President, U.S. Insurance Group, Bronson MassMutual, and executive sponsor of ( continued from page 3) DiversityInc. announced on April 22 the company’s PRIDE ERG. “I am grate- to trans individuals, so they don’t have that Massachusetts Mutual Life Insur- ful for and give a tremendous amount to fear because their name change and ance Company (MassMutual) has been of credit to the members of our PRIDE address were published and someone who named to its “25 Noteworthy Companies” ERG for their tireless efforts in building doesn’t like trans people could come to list for the fourth year in a row. This year, a strong inclusive culture at MassMutual their home to do them harm.” the company also was named to the list of and for cultivating relationships nation- Bronson feels that the bill might have “Top 10 Companies for LGBT Employ- ally and locally to help us be the best in a better chance of passage than GENDA ees” for the first time, ranking number serving the needs of our many customers.” (which Republicans refuse to let on the three. Additionally, MassMutual has been floor for a vote.) He said, “It’s a procedural MassMutual was recognized as a 2014 recognized for the past several years for change that addresses specific protection “25 Noteworthy Company” for strong its strong commitment to diversity and under existing law and will correct a pro- performance in the four areas mea- inclusion by the National Association cedural hurdle that individuals face when sured: Talent Pipeline, Equitable Tal- of Female Executives, Working Mother, name change is based on gender identity ent Development, CEO and Leadership Uptown Professional and LatinaStyle. or expression. Commitment, and Supplier Diversity. In MassMutual’s recognition as a top “It would help prevent bodily attack, particular, the company was recognized company for LGBT employees under- harassment and gossip – things none of us for its representation of women at all lev- scores its commitment to diversity and should be subjected to because of who we els, even when compared to companies on inclusion and to delivering on the com- are. Such acts have no place in our society. DiversityInc.’s “Top 50 Companies” list. pany’s purpose. Specifically, MassMutual I just introduced the bill in May and we’re “We are honored that DiversityInc. worked on and was one of the first to join working to get it on the Judiciary commit- continues to recognize MassMutual’s the historic “friend of the court” brief for tee agenda. ongoing progress toward creating a diverse the repeal of DOMA, is a member of the “Locally I was successful in the case and inclusive company and culture, said HRC Business Coalitions for Benefits Tax I had, and there’s one reported case in Lorie Valle-Yañez, Vice President and Equity and for Repealing DOMA and Westchester County court, which found Chief Diversity Officer at MassMutual. was one of the companies in Arizona to that there didn’t have to be an actual “We are deeply committed to diversity sign the Unity Pledge against the contro- David Piscitello showing of threat or abuse – just fear and inclusion, which we continually dem- versial bill allowing business owners the onstrate within MassMutual’s walls and that a hate crime might occur. This law right to refuse service to customers who and allies. would require all NYS courts to do the in communities across the U.S.” do not practice their own religious beliefs. David Piscitello of MassMutual told right thing. There would be no question The company also was ranked as Nationally, MassMutual sponsors the that trans people who are vulnerable to number three on the “Top 10 Compa- NGLCC (National Gay and Lesbian The Empty Closet, “This distinction is hate crimes would be included specifi- nies for LGBT Employees” list for 2014. Chambers of Commerce), Out and Equal important to me, both personally and cally; they are mentioned under subdivi- DiversityInc. cited such accomplish- Workplace Advocates, GLSEN (Gay, Les- professionally. As someone who directs sion two. ments as MassMutual’s LGBT market- bian, Straight Education Network), and our LGBT outreach efforts in the Roch- “One important aspect of identifying focused webpages, its PRIDE employee Gay Games IX in Cleveland in August. ester and Buffalo areas, it means that I with the gender you truly are is to have resource group (ERG), the company’s first Locally, sponsors the Northampton, am proud of the company that I work a name that corresponds to your gender. responder status to advocate for the repeal Mass. “NoHo” Pride Parade, the West- for. This shows that MassMutual is a We should make this as readily available of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), ern Massachusetts AIDS Foundation, the company dedicated to fairness, equality, as possible so transgender people will have its 100 percent Human Rights Campaign Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collec- diversity, inclusion, and caring. Mass- emotional protection from the under- (HRC) Corporate Equality Index (CEI) tive, and the Hartford Gay & Lesbian Mutual has a history of supporting the standable fear that their gender expression Rating, and corporate support of several Film Festival. LGBT community, in its forward-think- may be the stimulus for a hate crime or national LGBT organizations. Internally, MassMutualestablished ing employment practices, but also in its harassment.” “MassMutual is in business to help all its thriving PRIDE ERG, in addition to support of LGBT legislative initiatives on The Advocate has already picked up Americans secure their futures and pro- seven other ERGs with employees from the national level and of LGBT commu- the story. tect the ones they love, which is why it traditionally underrepresented groups nity organizations.

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“This ranking from DiversityInc. is ACLU of Oregon and the ACLU, should or show support prior to the fight. International Human Rights at Colby significant and the acknowledgement is be incredibly proud of their historic vic- There was widespread outrage when College was established in 1998 by a wonderful, but the reality is, MassMutual tory. Thanks to their willingness to fight the teen was charged by the Contra Costa grant from the Oak Foundation. Each has always been there for the LGBT com- and the decades of work done by groups County District Attorney’s Office. year, an Oak human rights fellow teach- munity. In Buffalo, for example, Mass- like Basic Rights Oregon and countless The Transgender Law Center had es at Colby and conducts research. The Mutual has long supported the Buffalo others, America is now one giant step clos- urged the DA’s office to instead work institute organizes lectures and other Pride Center and its events and has fund- er to full equality nationwide.” with the families and students involved events centered around the fellow’s area ed college scholarships for LGBT youth. to find an alternative means of resolving of expertise. Oak human rights fellows As a gay man, I feel proud that I am part R eport: Most big their conflict. have included activists from Myanmar, of a group of people that is being recog- The office dropped the charges last Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the nized and supported as a whole.” companies ban sexual month after Gutierrez completed a restor- Congo, Colombia, Kosovo, Sudan, and MassMutual is also known for its orientation, gender ative justice program conducted by the Cambodia, all of whom have risked their inclusion of women at all levels, and for identity discrimination National Council on Crime and Delin- lives exposing and combating human- its commitment to diversity in general. quency per an agreement she had reached rights abuses in their countries. Piscitello commented, “Both the Mass- UCLA’s Williams Institute reports with the DA. For more information about the Oak Mutual corporate headquarters and Mass- that 98 percent of the country’s largest The teen had strong family support Institute and Byarugaba’s appointment, Mutual Buffalo have worked to actively companies now prohibit discrimination including an older sister who launched a please visit colby.edu/oak. diversify its workforce at all levels because based on sexual orientation and nearly 85 Change.org petition demanding that the it’s the right thing to do and because percent prohibit discrimination based on charges be dropped. It had been signed by U ganda atrocities it makes good business sense. Women, gender identity, according to a new study. more than 200,000 people. people of color, people with disabilities, The study also finds that 86 percent of - See more at: http://www.gaystarnews. increase tenfold after veterans and members of the LGBT com- the top 50 federal contractors prohibit dis- com/article/prosecutors-drop-battery- passage of hate bill munity seek out employers such as Mass- crimination based on sexual orientation charges-against-bullied-trans-teen- Mutual that have proven they embrace and over 60 percent prohibit discrimina- california070514#sthash.hYAuIsTl.dpuf By Joe Morgan on gaystarnews.com diversity and inclusion. At MassMutual, tion based on gender identity. Combined, Gay and lesbians are the targets of a employees know they are valued for who these contractors represent 48 percent of “hunt” in Uganda since the passing of a they are, how they think, and what they all contracting dollars awarded by the homophobic law, a report has said. bring to the table. By having a diverse federal government — over $218 billion The research compiled by Sexual workforce, we are better able to relate to a in spending. Minorities Uganda has found the num- varied customer base and provide cultur- “The percentages of top companies ber of recorded incidents have increased ally sensitive and client-specific services. and federal contractors with both sexual tenfold. Embracing diversity gives us a competitive orientation and gender identity non-dis- These include kidnappings, torture, advantage.” crimination policies have increased since attempted lynchings, mob violence, Piscitello said that there has been no we started tracking these data in 2011,” homes burned down, blackmail, lost negative response locally to the Diversi- said Christy Mallory, co-author and Wil- jobs, arrests, evictions and suicides. tyInc. ranking as a Top 10 Company for liams Institute Senior Counsel. At least 25 people are reported to LGBT employees in the U.S. A 2011 Williams Institute study, based have fled from Uganda, seeking asylum He concluded, “As further proof of the on 2010 data, found that 44 percent of in countries such as Kenya and Rwanda. support that the MassMutual corporate the top 50 federal contractors and 70 per- The gay rights activists have noted office provides to the LGBT community, cent of the top 50 Fortune 500 compa- following the Red Pepper listing the it is proud to be a major sponsor of the nies prohibited discrimination based on “top 200 homosexuals” after the bill was upcoming Gay Games IX in Cleveland gender identity. In 2013 those numbers made law, several men and women were this August. The Company’s sponsorship increased to 67 percent of the top 50 fed- disowned by their family or assaulted in of this important athletic and cultural eral contractors and 88 percent of the top the street. Several are facing prosecution. event is just another example of our strong 50 Fortune 500 companies respectively. One report references the suicide of a commitment to the LGBT community.” The 2011 study found that 81 percent of 17-year-old gay teen, who overdosed on the top 50 federal contractors and 96 per- pills and swallowed rat poison, because cent of the top 50 Fortune 500 companies he felt he had nothing to live for. national prohibited discrimination based on sexual Clare Byarugaba He was the son of Muslim parents and international orientation. Those percentages increased who consider homosexuals to be “proof in 2013 to 93 percent and 98 percent, Colby College names of sin itself” and “not people”. The Anti-Homosexuality Act, made Oregon respectively. ( from page 5) This year’s percentages are somewhat Ugandan activist as law in late February, punishes homo- are free to marry in Oregon.” lower due to the change in companies 2014 Oak Human Rights sexuality with a life sentence in prison. It “Today’s ruling acknowledges that that ranked in the top 50 on each list Fellow; “saved my life” also imposes strict bans on the “promo- Oregon same-sex couples are entitled to from 2011 to 2013, and not to companies tion of homosexuality,” which carries a equal dignity under our Constitution,” rescinding policies. Clare Byarugaba, an award-winning five-year sentence, “aiding and abetting said Misha Isaak, who argued on behalf “Comparing the 2011 study to the Ugandan human rights defender who homosexuality,” with a sentence of seven of the Rummell plaintiffs at the April 23 current study, we see a sustained increase works for gay and lesbian rights in years, and a gay couple living together, hearing and serves on Basic Rights Ore- in the number of top U.S. companies with a country that recently criminalized for which you can spend life in jail. gon’s legal advisory group. “We are par- gender identity and sexual orientation homosexuality and the “aiding and abet- “The passing of AHA has given per- ents, siblings, neighbors, coworkers, and non-discrimination policies,” explained ting of homosexuality,” has been named mission to a culture of extreme and vio- friends, just like our fellow Oregonians, Brad Sears, Executive Director and Rober- the 2014 Oak human rights fellow at lent homophobia whereby both state and and we have the same constitutional rights ta A. Conroy Scholar of Law & Policy at Colby College in Waterville, Maine. non-state actors are free to persecute as our fellow Oregonians. Our loving, the Williams Institute. Byarugaba is co-coordinator of the Uganda’s LGBTI people with impunity,” committed relationships are worthy of The top ten Fortune 500 companies Civil Society Coalition on Human the report stated. the state’s equal recognition. Finally, they with gender identity and sexual orienta- Rights and Constitutional Law, which The survey recorded 162 incidents will get it.” tion non-discrimination polices are Wal- was founded in 2009 to fight homopho- since the legislation was passed by parlia- “Today Oregon joins the increasing Mart, Chevron, Apple, General Motors, bia in Uganda and act on behalf of the ment last December. number of states in embracing the free- General Electric, Ford Motor, AT&T, LGBTI community. By comparison, Sexual Minorities dom to marry for all,” said Rose Saxe, Fannie Mae, CVS Caremark, and McKes- Byarugaba helped organize Uganda’s Uganda recorded eight incidents in 2013 senior staff attorney with the ACLU Les- son. The top federal contractors include, first gay pride event, lobbied against the and 19 in 2012. bian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Proj- Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Raytheon, country’s anti-homosexuality bill, and “[This] represents an increase of ect. “This decision brings us one step General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, now pushes for its repeal despite the between 750 percent and 1,900 percent closer to ensuring that all loving and com- L-3 Communications Holdings, United threats that work imposes. on previous years,” the report noted, “an mitted couples will be able to take care of Technologies, BAE Systems, McKesson, “When I called to tell her that she increase which can only be explained by each other and their loved ones with the Humana, and Computer Sciences Cor- had been chosen as our 2014 Oak human the passage of the AHA and the viru- protections and dignity that only come poration. rights fellow, Clare started sobbing and lently homophobic atmosphere this has through marriage.” whispered into the phone, ‘You just saved engendered.” The anti-marriage equality group P rosecutors drop my life,’” said Walter Hatch, director of Pepe Julian Onziema, a LGBTI rights National Organization for Marriage the Oak Institute for the Study of Inter- activist in Uganda, told Gay Star News (NOM) attempted to intervene in the case charges against bullied national Human Rights at Colby and the “hunt” is well and truly on. just before the April 23 hearing. On May 14, California trans teen professor of government. On mobs, he said, “They call their Judge McShane denied their motion. NOM who fought back Byarugaba has received countless bill ‘theirs’. It is not. They don’t under- filed an appeal in the 9th Circuit Court of threats and has been forced to move sev- stand it. The law doesn’t allow you to Appeals on May 19, and also requested an By Greg Hernandez on gaystarnews.com eral times. Recently a popular tabloid go attack people. It’s a badge of violent emergency stay of Judge McShane’s ruling. Battery charges against transgender identified her as a “gay recruiter.” In 2011 ignorance.” The request for a stay was denied, but the high school student Jewlyes Gutierrez another openly gay Ugandan human Onziema called on Ugandan LGBTIs appeal is still pending. RELATED: NOM -- filed after she fought with three class- rights activist was murdered shortly after to keep safe and to seek help on social has just been accused of violating election mates she said had bullied her for days a tabloid listed his name with the words, media if needed. law, according to a report from the Maine -- have been officially dropped by pros- “Hang Them.” “It makes me sad that my commu- Ethics Commission. ecutors. “Clare has survived a terrible ordeal. nity is unsafe. It’s intentionally put at Human Rights Campaign Presi- The student at Hercules High in Her- She has been rejected by her family, sub- risk,” he said. “It’s like standing by the dent Chad Griffin issued the following cules, Calif. had been charged with mis- jected routinely to threats of violence, roadside and being pushed in front of a statement: “Today’s ruling from Judge demeanor battery after a fight between and now criminalized as both a lesbian speeding car. That is what the president McShane affirms what a majority of Ore- her and several other students last Novem- and as a human rights activist. We are has done to us.” gonians already knew: discrimination has ber was captured on video. glad that we can give her a safe space - See more at: http://www.gaystarnews. no place in our society, much less the state Gutierrez said she was only defending to think, write, rest, and recharge,” said com/article/kidnaps-torture-and- constitution. The plaintiffs and their tre- herself after being the target of persistent Hatch. Byarugaba will be at Colby and house-burning-new-shock-reports-gay- mendous attorneys Lake James Perriguey, harassment and intimidation at school. will teach during the 2014 fall semester. uganda120514#sthash.HNUlsN7q.dpuf Lea Ann Easton, Perkins Coie LLP, the She claimed school staff did not intervene The Oak Institute for the Study of (N ewsFronts continue page 14) 14 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

association of LGBT people who cur- - See more at: http://www.gaystarnews. Said Jones in a statement: “I want national rently serve or have served in the military, com/article/oprah-looking-nate- to apologize to Michael Sam for the and international along with our families and our veteran berkus-and-husband-make-history- inappropriate comments that I made and uniformed allies. We are a member- new-york-public-library050514#sthash. last night on social media. I take full ship organization, built by, for and with QH3yEwhc.dpuf responsibility for them and I regret that ( NewsFronts from page 13) members from all parts of the LGBT these tweets took away from his draft Defense Secretary says military community. SPART*A’s mission R ams draft Michael moment. I remember last year when I is to advocate for and support our actively was drafted in the seventh round and rules on trans people serving LGBT military members and vet- Sam; pick came late in all of the emotions and happiness I felt serving in military “need erans, and their families.” the process when I received the call that gave me an continual review” “The name originated from the acro- opportunity to play for an NFL team nym Servicemembers, Partners, and Allies On May 10, openly gay college foot- and I wish him all the best in his NFL In response to a question asked by for Respect and Tolerance for All. The ball star Michael Sam was drafted into career... I sincerely apologize to Mr. Martha Raddatz on ABC’s “This Week asterisk represents a special recognition the NFL by the St. Louis Rams. Ross, my teammates, coaches, staff and with George Stephanopoulos”, Defense of transgender members, who continue to USA Today reports: President fans for these tweets. I am committed to Secretary Chuck Hagel said that medi- serve in silence.” Obama is honoring Michael Sam, who represent the values of the Miami Dol- cal regulations barring transgender people on Saturday became the first openly gay phins organization and appreciate the from serving in the military “continually N ate Berkus, fiancé player to be drafted by a pro football opportunity I have been given to do so should be reviewed.” team after the St. Louis Rams picked going forward.” “We appreciate that Secretary Hagel make history at NY him in the seventh round. Coach Joe Philbin called Jones’ recognizes that these medical regulations Public Library “The President congratulates statements “inappropriate and unac- are over thirty years old, are inconsistent Michael Sam, the Rams and the NFL for ceptable,” adding, “We met with Don with current medical practice, and nega- By Greg Hernandez on gaystarnews.com taking an important step forward in our today about respect, discrimination and tively impact military readiness. They With Oprah Winfrey among the Nation’s journey,” said a White House judgment. These comments are not con- harm our service members and weak- celebrity guests, home decorating guru statement. “From the playing field to sistent with the values and standards of en our military,” said SPART*A Policy and TV host Nate Berkus married his the corporate boardroom, LGBT Amer- our program.” Director, former Army Captain Allyson fiance of one year, Jeremiah Brent, over icans prove everyday that you should be Jones must undergo sensitivity train- Robinson. “An estimated fifteen thousand the weekend of May 3. judged by what you do and not who you ing before he will be allowed to rejoin transgender service members currently And the couple made a little bit of are,” said the White House of Sam, an team activities. serve in constant fear and stress: people history while doing so by becoming the award-winning defense end who played Now that there is a gay player in like Petty Officer Landon Wilson, just first same-sex couple to be married at the at the University of Missouri. the league, the homophobic nonsense back from Afghanistan, who served with New York Public Library. However, Jarrett Bell wrote in USA is over. distinction until being drummed out sim- Winfrey, the woman who launched Today on May 11, “…the former Mis- Read more: http://www.towleroad. ply because of who he is. We have heard Berkus’ television career, later sent out souri defensive end wasn’t chosen com/#ixzz31VVjFgnm story after story of commanders who this tweet: Just left @NateBerkus wed- until the 249th pick overall… Was GLAAD statement question these policies because their trans- ding to his partner Jeremiah. I felt the this because Sam is gay? It sure seems “Without a doubt, this is a game gender troops are valued by their units shift. #anewdayhascome that way, no matter what we’ve heard changer,” said GLAAD President & and contribute to their readiness.” Other celebrity guests included talk about the NFL culture being progressive CEO Sarah Kate Ellis. “Today, Michael SPART*A, an LGBT military organi- and cooking show host Rachael Ray and enough… to tolerate a player without Sam has redefined what it takes to be a zation, includes several hundred transgen- actress Busy Phillips of Cougar Town regard to his sexual orientation.” champion. He’s tackled stereotypes and der members currently serving in uniform. fame, according to People.com. Dolphins player apologizes for joins the ranks of athletic trailblazers “We look forward to a prompt and Berkus, 42, gained fame as a frequent offensive remark like Jason Collins and Brittney Griner comprehensive medical review of these guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show. He Miami Dolphins defensive back Don in showing Americans that there’s no regulations, which is long overdue,” said then went on to host his own syndicated Jones, who tweeted “OMG” and “Hor- place for homophobia on the field. As Robinson. “Many of our allies, includ- daytime talk show for two years and is rible” in reaction to Michael Sam kiss- support for equality continues to surge, ing the UK, Australia, and Israel, allow now host of NBC’s American Dream ing his boyfriend after being drafted by it’s clear that sports fans are ready, foot- transgender people to serve with pride and Builders. the St. Louis Rams, apologized to Sam ball is ready, and America is ready for its honor in their armed forces. It’s time for Brent, 29, currently appears on the and the Dolphins on May 11, and was first openly gay NFL player.” the U.S. to join them.” Bravo television series The Rachel Zoe suspended and fined by the team, CBS Human Rights Campaign state- About SPART*A: “SPART*A is an Project. Sports reports. ment june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 15

“We congratulate Michael Sam and Other high-profile figures and orga- the St. Louis Rams on their terrific deci- nizations boycotting the hotel chain in sion to draft him. Today, LGBT young London and worldwide are Sir Rich- people can look to Sam as proof that ard Branson, actor Stephen Fry, design- being open and proud of who you are ers Peter Som and Brian Atwood, Ellen doesn’t keep you from achieving your DeGeneres, Sharon Osbourne, director dreams. Gay people are our neighbors William Friedkin, and the Outgiving and friends. They’re our United States conference. Senators and, starting today, they’re our Read more: http://www.towleroad. professional football stars.” com/#ixzz30wNPNIfU RELATED: A protest has also taken place in London at the Sultan’s hotel T rans seatbelt safety there. Branson’s Virgin Airlines is now campaign goes viral boycotting Brunei-owned hotels. online in India C helsea Manning may By Andrew Potts on gaystarnews.com A seat belt safety campaign in India be allowed gender has become an online hit after it enlist- treatment in prison ed the help of India’s transgender com- munity to remind people to buckle up By Joe Morgan on gaystarnews.com while driving. Chelsea Manning could finally be Almost two million people have allowed to begin gender treatment, watched the campaign video on You- according to reports. Tube and other platforms in which the The Pentagon is reportedly consider- transgender women, known tradition- ing transferring the US soldier jailed for ally in India as Hijras, step out into M illions attend world’s footage of examples of physical abuse 35 years for leaking classified documents stopped traffic to remind drivers to use largest Pride in Brazil meted out to gay people in Brazil. to a civilian prison to allow her to take their seat belts. Organizers of the parade claimed three hormones. The world’s largest gay pride parade, million attendees last year, but local police Despite being marginalized Hijras involving several million people, took Since after she came out as trans in have traditionally been believed to con- have contested that number, saying it is August last year following her sentencing, place in Sao Paulo on May 4. impossible to accurately judge the “float- fer blessings and are often asked to President Dilma Rousseff, who is seek- she has been banned from gender treat- bless births and other auspicious events. ing population” of such events. ment. ing another term in October elections, -Joe MyGod.com Officials in the Defense Department (India recently recognized Hijra as the gave a message of support via Twitter. third gender.) have told the Associated Press they do In the campaign the Hijras bless “People from around the country J ay Leno joins major not offer such treatment and Manning are in Sao Paulo today to participate in drivers who buckle up and deny bless- protest at Brunei’s cannot be discharged while serving her ings upon those who refuse to drive #paradalgbt,” Rousseff tweeted, remind- 35-year sentence – even though transgen- safely. ing her followers there is a hotline people Beverly Hills Hotel der people are now allowed to serve in the can call in Brazil if they are attacked “If you wear your seat belt, we will A major protest was held on May 5 US military. bless you,” the Hijras say in the video, because of their sexuality. But if they were to keep her in a mili- Mainly young, beer-swigging march- outside the Beverly Hills Hotel in sup- while reminding they are not airline port of what has become a very large boy- tary prison and forced her to live as a man, pilots and that they do not have oxygen ers were dressed as anything from angels the treatment could be deemed cruel and to devils and police officers. cott against Dorchester Hotels, which are masks and safety vests to protect them owned by the Sultan of Brunei, over his unusual, officials have said privately. in an emergency – but they do have seat “We attended mass in a church near It is a similar fear shared by human here and then came to the march,” said implementation of an anti-gay law which belts. punishes homosexual acts with death by rights groups, such as the Southern Pov- - See more at: http://www. Cassia Maria, 53. “I am Catholic -- apos- erty Law Center, who have demanded tolic and Roman. But I stick my fingers stoning. gaystarnews.com/article/trans- Jay Leno was among the celebrities prison officials provide hormone therapy gender-seat-belt-safety-campaign-goes- up against discrimination,” she smiled attending the demonstration, Variety for transgender inmates. viral-india080514#sthash.0UzGEj0F.dpuf as her husband viewed on his cell phone reports: Last month, they sent a letter to Geor- “What year is this? 1814? Come on gia’s Department for Corrections demand- people, it’s 2014,” said Jay Leno, standing ing 36-year-old inmate Ashley Diamond before some four dozen protesters with receive gender treatment. banners directed at the Sultan, including “Her voice has deepened. Her facial one that read, “Seriously, dude?” hair has begun to grow and her body fat “Evil flourishes when good people do has redistributed. Her identity is being nothing, and that is pretty much what erased,” the SPLC stated. this is,” Leno said at the rally, adding that In the SPLC news release, Diamond the issue should hardly be divisive but was says: “No one would deny a diabetic pris- a matter of “common sense.” oner insulin. No one would sentence a The paper adds: person to a gender change. But because I At the rally speakers that condemned am transgender, I am denied basic medi- the Sultan included Leno, wife Mavis, cal care and forced to change gender. the Feminist Majority’s Kathy Spiller Nobody should be sentenced to torture and Eleanor Smeal, labor activist Dolores like this.” Huerta and Lorri Jean of the Los Angeles Judges have routinely agreed with Gay and Lesbian Center. The event was inmates, citing the “cruel and unusual” held at Will Rogers Park, just across the clause of the Eight Amendment as a jus- street from the hotel, with speakers set tification for striking down bans on hor- up before a bank of a dozen news cam- mone therapy. eras and with the hotel’s iconic logo as a When Manning revealed she is trans- backdrop. gender, she released an open letter to the Jean denounced religion as a justifica- world. tion for violence abroad and here in the “I want everyone to know the real me.’ U.S. (C helsea continues on page 16) 16 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

national and international

(C helsea from page 15) Manning said. ‘I am Chelsea Manning, and the Governor’s historic decision not I am a female. Given the way that I feel, to appeal will be an enduring legacy,” and have felt since childhood, I want to said Witold Walczak, legal director of begin hormone therapy as soon as pos- the ACLU of Pennsylvania and Mark sible.” Aronchick of Hangley Aronchick Segal - See more at: http://www.gaystarnews. Pudlin & Schiller. com/article/chelsea-manning-could-final- “This is a milestone for our move- ly-be-allowed-transition140514#sthash. ment. It reinforces the reality that this yfXnPkg2.dpuf isn’t a partisan issue. It’s about funda- mental fairness and dignity for all peo- ple, including lesbians and gay men,” J udge rules Pa. commented James Esseks, director of the marriage ban ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Trans- unconstitutional; Pa. gender Project. Evan Wolfson, president of Freedom becomes 19th state to Marry, released the following state- with marriage equality ment: “Governor Corbett’s decision not to waste taxpayers’ money defending On May 20 U.S. District Judge John the indefensible denial of the freedom to E. Jones, III ruled that Pennsylvania’s marry even one day longer is the right law banning marriage equality is uncon- decision for Pennsylvania, for families, stitutional. Pennsylvania becomes the and for the country -- and one more big 10th state where a federal judge has step forward to celebrate. Pennsylvania struck down a marriage ban since the is showing the country that when gay U.S. Supreme Court issued their two couples share in the freedom to marry, marriage-related rulings last year. it’s joy, love, security, and happiness and Governor Tom Corbett of Pennsylva- a stronger community for everyone, and nia announced that he will not appeal, no one loses. And this latest decision by so Pennsylvania is now the 19th state a Republican governor not to try to keep to adopt marriage equality, and couples gay couples from marrying is additional have already started marrying. proof that all of America is ready for the On May 19 a federal judge in Oregon freedom to marry.” struck down that state’s constitutional In response to the news out of Penn- amendment banning marriage equality. sylvania, Human Rights Campaign Given the state’s decision not to appeal (HRC) President Chad Griffin issued the ruling, Oregon became the eighteenth the following statement: “Today a fed- state where committed and loving gay and eral judge appointed by President George lesbian couples can legally marry. W. Bush became the latest to uphold the “We applaud the governor for letting most sacred ideals of this nation and our the constitutional principles of freedom Constitution – that justice and equality and equality ring throughout Pennsylva- matter above all else. It seems that every nia by allowing loving same-sex couples passing day brings LGBT Americans a to marry. As the judge noted, we are new victory in our unwavering march a better people than the marriage ban toward justice. ■

Conchita Wurst wins Eurovision; Russian homophobes make a fuss, Austrians make sausage Austrian gender-fuck artist Conchita Wurst won Eurovision 2014 last month after a stunning performance at the finals held in Copenhagen. The audience was clearly on Conchita’s side during the vote tally and as each nation reported points for Austria, the screaming was crazy. Conchita Wurst: “This night belongs to everyone who believes in a future of peace and freedom. We are unity and we are unstoppable.” -JoeMyGod.com Russian authorities reacted with predictable rage and homophobia. Nonetheless, Con- chita Wurst’s winning Eurovision entry was #1 on May 13 on Russia’s iTunes chart. The track is from the official Eurovision album released after the contest. At #4 on Russia’s chart is the original version of Rise Like A Phoenix, which was released last month. Russia’s own Eurovision entry is at #8. Pictured: for sale in Wurst’s native Austria… june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 17

not inform the mother. So when she heard what her daughter had done, she took her phone away for a while.” LGBTQ Living CD’s other children have not experi- enced serious harassment – “as far as we know,” CD said. Amanda said that her daughter had been harassed by her own father and grandmother. The children themselves have not expressed anger or resentment at their moms. CD said, “I think they’re OK. Amanda and I have been together for 11 years, and the kids were pretty young. My kids’ father has been very involved and has handled it well.” Amanda’s daughter sent her a Mother’s Day greeting this year, which said, “Hav- ing two moms is the greatest.” CD’s daugh- ter Sarah also sent her a loving message on Mother’s Day. CD said, “We’ve always put it to them that we are a chosen family – and regard- less of any issues we may have at home, we need to back each other up if we see one of the family being harassed. Jerry Mahoney and Drew Tappon with their twins, Bennett and Sutton, 4½. “Our town is small and we’re volley- ball moms and soccer moms; we go to all the games and are very visible in our com- P arenting: Wanda Martinez and Dawn Johncox they vacation, and their New York marriage munity. What we’ve found through the Our families are REAL Wanda Martinez has two children: should be accepted in Virginia. In fact, that years is that it took people time to adjust, Maxwell, aged 11 and Mariadeliz, aged 8. state is currently going through a lawsuit but because we continue to participate in By Susan Jordan She and her partner Dawn Johncox live in which could make marriage equality a real- our community, they know we’re the same When marriage equality became NYS Canandaigua, where Wanda works at the ity in Virginia; as this issue goes to press a people we always were, with the same val- law in 2011, life became easier for same sex VA. They plan to marry next year. judge is hearing arguments in the case. ues, and we aren’t afraid to answer their couples raising children. Society, at least Dawn told The Empty Closet, “Mar- The children have been in the same questions.” in 19 states, now accepts that our loving, riage will offer us more stability as a fam- school district all their lives, and have Amanda noted, “We have a rainbow committed marriages, relationships and ily unit.” Wanda added, “Health insurance experienced some bullying for having two flag on our front porch – and we live in a families are as “real” as those of heterosexu- will affect us – we can get a family insur- mothers. CD said, “My oldest daughter, Mormon town!” als. But do our families still face obstacles? ance plan.” when she was 15, had a bad experience CD concluded, “We are so much like Nathan Schaefer of the Empire State The two have not experienced any when a group of girls took a picture off her everybody else! We have such a normal Pride Agenda feels that they do. He writes, obstacles as a same sex couple. Wanda said, MySpace photo page and photo-shopped it family life; we’re doing what any straight “New York has one of the worst state laws “We live in Canandaigua, a small town, so into a caricature of female genitalia. Then family does.” ■ on the books when it comes to family cre- that’s good. I keep educating other parents they harassed her through endless texts ation. That’s why we’re supporting the and teachers about our family. Every year and physically threatened her at school. We Child-Parent Security Act, which would we educate a new teacher. Reactions have reported this to the school authorities, but remove some of the most invasive and been really good.” because the girls were under 16 no charges expensive hurdles around the second par- She and Dawn agree that the children could be placed. The athletic director did ent adoption process. We’re also advocating see their family as being like every other call them in – they were all on the cheer- to overturn the decades old ban on surro- family. Dawn said, “Wanda has brought up leading squad – and told them they were gacy to make regulated gestational carrier the kids to be very open.” supposed to be representing the school, and contracts legal so that parents-to-be can Wanda commented, “We are like any if the harassment didn’t stop they would be use their own doctors and lawyers and cre- other family. But every time we meet new taken off the squad. The girls did end the ate their families here at home. It would be parents, like when their or our kids stay harassment and police also talked to their model legislation for the country.” overnight, I have to explain that we’re a parents. In this issue the EC talks to three cou- same sex couple; they all feel comfortable. “We talked to the mother of one of ples raising children. What does marriage They say things like, ‘Thanks for telling us the girls, and she had never even heard equality mean to them? Have they or their that – my brother is gay!’ And they also can what was happening, because the police children encountered discrimination and then talk to their kids about families with talked only to the stepfather – who did “ This Day in June” prejudice? Do they feel their families are two moms or daddies.” celebrates Pride for secure? She adds, “I’m lucky to be living in Jerry Mahoney, author of “Mommy New York State, even though there’s a lot children Man,” and Drew Tappon more to be done. I went to Equality and By Susan Jordan Jerry told The Empty Closet, “We feel Justice Day this year and learned a lot Magination Press in Washington very fortunate that our kids (four and a about GENDA. It was my first time in D.C., run by the American Psychologi- half-year-old twins Bennett and Sutton) Albany, but there were so many people – cal Association, has published a picture were born in California, because both my the bus from Rochester was full and four book about Pride, written by Gayle E. partner (who’s now my husband) and I other people I know drove to Albany. I Pittman and illustrated by Kristyna Litten were able to be on the birth certificate. Of would do it again next year.” (32 pages, hardbound $16.95; paperback course, we weren’t able to marry because CD Baginski and Amanda Kelley $9.95). A copy is available at the Gay Alli- they were born right after Prop 8 passed. CD Baginski, an assistant manager in ance Library. So it wasn’t until we moved to New York retail, and her partner Amanda Kelly, a The book is aimed at children ages that we could get married. paramedic, live in Palmyra and have been 4-8 and includes facts about LGBTQ his- “Ironically, our LGBT friends in NY together for 11 years. They had a commit- tory and culture, and a Note To Parents were in the opposite situation. They could ment ceremony in 2008 and plan to marry and Caregivers about how to talk about get married but had to go through a sec- next summer. Between them the two have sexual orientation and gender identity to ond-parent adoption to ensure they both four children. They both have volunteered small kids in a clear, non-threatening way, had legal rights to their kids. It’ll be nice for the Gay Alliance Youth Group, and CD which answers their questions without when the laws finally catch up with the interned at the Gay Alliance in 2010-2011. patronizing or scaring them. realities of LGBT relationships and fami- CD has two daughters and a son. The Baginskis and Kelleys: L-R, front: The Right believes that merely letting lies, and everything is equal across the Sarah, 20, has lived with her father for Sarah, Leah, Amanda, CD and Saman- children know that gay people exist will country. the past year and a half, while Leah, 16 tha; Evan at back. immediately transform them into queens “The bright side of our delayed wed- and Evan, 11, and and butch dykes. The reality is that the ding is that when we finally did marry, our Amanda’s daughter tension, anger and shame adults so often kids were old enough to participate. It was Samantha, also 16, reveal when talking about gays, or any great being able to include them in the cer- live with their two sexual matters, traumatize children and emony and having them there to appreciate moms. make them feel afraid and ashamed of and share our special day. CD and Aman- their own bodies, whether they are queer, “The biggest surprise to me about life da feel that they straight and/or trans. as a gay parent is how much of a nonis- have benefitted This book is not perfect. The colorful sue it is with the people we meet. We from the legaliza- drawings depict a typical joyous, diverse haven’t encountered any overt resistance tion of same sex Pride, the accompanying text consists of or prejudice. We keep bracing ourselves marriage in that bad couplets – “Sidewalk shaking, bellies for it, but for the most part, everyone has when they marry, aching…Loving kisses/All delicious” etc. been extremely welcoming toward us, from they will be able to Pretty poor stuff. neighbors to other parents to school per- get a family insur- However, the book is attractive and sonnel.” ance plan. Also, the message it sends is one that children Jerry will read from his book “Mommy when the youngest of same-sex parents, or who have gay rela- Man” at Barnes & Noble on July 18 at 7 has graduated from tives and family friends, need to hear. In p. m., and will also be helping with Family high school they fact all children could benefit from this Time at Pride July 19. See the July EC and plan to move to Vir- Wanda and Dawn take Maxwell and Mariadeliz on a tour of the positive, loving message about the world see Jerry’s blog at jerry-mahoney.com. ginia Beach, where docks during their latest trip to Puerto Rico. around them. ■ 18 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014 24 hour emergency service

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Pegasus Early Music Congratulates Evelyn Bailey on her Empire State Pride Agenda Community Service Award

Ja son Klaum, Stylist 585.732.7676 90 Canal Street, Suite 308 Rochester 14608

PFLAG meets the 3rd Sunday of each month Meetings are at Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church, 707 E. Main St., Rochester, NY 14605 from 1 to 3pm. Questions? Call: 585-244-8640 and leave a message, or e-mail: [email protected] Join us! 20 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014 june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 21 Shoulders to Stand On

Daughters of Bilitis word that had a very negative meaning of the DOB on the lives of women was TM in 1956. described by historian Martin Meeker: By Evelyn Bailey In 1953, The Daughters of Bilitis fol- “The DOB succeeded in linking hun- We have looked at the three most lowed the Mattachine Society’s lead in dreds of lesbians across the country with influential events to shape American soci- thinking it more prudent and productive one another and gathering them into a ety’s attitudes toward homosexuality – to convince heterosexual society at large distinctly modern communication net- the founding of the Mattachine Society, that gays were not different from them- work.” the Lavender Scare and the classification selves, rather than agitate for change. The Through its leadership in the pre- in the DSM-1 of homosexuality as a men- DOB encouraged its members to assimi- dominantly male homophile movement tal illness. late as much as possible into the prevail- of the 1950s and 1960s, its unique pub- The years after the end of World War ing heterosexual culture. There was much lication The Ladder, and its network of II were some of the most socially repres- controversy over this direction as was local chapters, DOB played a crucial sive in US history. In 1950, the State reflected in ongoing debate over the pro- role in creating lesbian identity, visibility, Department identified homosexuals as priety of butch and femme dress and role institutions, and political strategies from security risks. Politically motivated police play among its members. As early as 1955 1955 to 1970. In addition, the Daughters raids on gay bars took place all over the a rule was made that women who attend- helped to broaden the very definition of US and Canada. Laws were enacted ed meetings, if wearing pants, should be social change to include female sexuality. prohibiting cross-dressing for men and wearing women’s slacks. However, many Shoulders To Stand On is proud to women. Police harassment and brutality women remember it being a rule that went recognize the Daughters of Bilitis as have been constant features of gay and unfollowed as attendees at many meetings the first lesbian civil and political rights lesbian life for decades. were wearing jeans, and the only jeans organization in the United States. Today, Indefinite detainments, beatings, available in the 1950s were men’s. Shoulders challenges all of our sisters to and public humiliations are only the tip In 1960, the DOB held their first con- become active participants in our con- of the iceberg. Lesbian and male drag vention in San Francisco, which was so tinuing struggle to secure our civil liber- queens through the 1950s and 1960s suf- for lesbians, The Ladder. successful that they held one every two ties, political rights and a future where all fered frequent rapes and sexual assaults The DOB was many things to many years until 1968. Two hundred women are free to be who they are. Be active! Be committed by police officers, sometimes women. First and foremost, it was where attended the conference, as did the San visible! Be proud! inside police precincts. Moreover, police a gay or questioning woman could go to Francisco police, who came to check if were certainly no help when beatings, meet a new girlfriend, begin to heal a any of the DOB members were wearing rapes, and lesser indignities were visited broken heart, or find validation for her men’s clothes. Del Martin brought them H istory Corner upon gay and lesbian people by civil- life. It was a circle of friends to share ians. In the mid-1950s, all of society’s inside to see all the women wearing dress- A Monthly Newspaper of The Gay good times and bad as well as a network es, stockings and heels. major institutions and opinion-makers of peer counselors who offered support Alliance of the Genesee Valley, 713 Mon- condemned homosexuality and persecut- Two things happened in 1963 that roe Avenue, Room 4, Rochester, N Y and guidance. It was a resource center for changed the course of the organization. ed gay men and women. questions about homosexuality and a nice l4607, (716) 244-8640 Out of this oppressive environment A windfall came to the group when an JUNE 1974 NO. 40. IN THIS place to go on Saturday night. DOB was anonymous donor who refused her name grassroots homophile organizations began a potent mix of counseling and social ser- ISSUE: to spring up, so that by 1969, there were to be recorded, known only to the DOB GAGV Pres Talks with Head of Police vices, with a dash of grassroots organizing as “Pennsylvania,” began donating large about fifty “homophile” organizations in thrown in. Like its members, it grew and Tact Unit pg. 1 Mugging of Gays pg. the US. One of these was the first lesbian sums of money to the DOB: $100,000 1 Barbara Gittings to Speak at People’s changed with the times. over five years. “Pennsylvania” wrote civil and political rights organization in One of the first things DOB did was Banquet pg. 1 Rochestarian Selected to the United States, Daughters of Bilitis, $3,000 checks to different DOB mem- coordinate Gay Lobbying, pg. 1 Alfred create living-room discussions of topics bers, who in turn signed them over to founded in San Francisco in 1955. It was of concern to lesbians, but open to all Passes Gay Rights – First in NY State pg. conceived as a social alternative to lesbi- the organization. And the editorship of 1 Christopher St. Liberation Day Parade women. Their sensitivity to the intense The Ladder changed from Del Martin to an bars, which were subject to raids and fear of the time — a fear that is hard for pg. 2 Gay Parents and Adoption, pg. 3 police harassment. us to even imagine today—meant that Barbara Gittings. Bribery Attempt Charged in Park Arrest, The story goes something like this. In one did not have to declare herself to be Because The Ladder was the pri- pg. 3 The Rathskellar Presents Goldfin- 1955, Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon had a lesbian to join the Daughters of Bili- mary method of communication from ger pg. 4 Bulletin Board pg. 5 been together as lovers for three years tis. Upon arrival at a meeting, attendees the leadership of the DOB to its indi- Do you want to read this issue of the when they complained to a gay male cou- would be greeted at the door. In a show vidual chapters, the editor position was Empty Closet? ple that they did not know any other les- of good faith, the greeter would say, “I’m extremely influential in the group. Git- Here is link: http://www.lib.rochester. bians. The gay couple introduced Del and ---. Who are you? You don’t have to give tings made significant changes to the edu/index.cfm?page=4800. Phyllis to another lesbian couple, one of me your real name, not even your real magazine, putting an emphasis on being On that page click on: Browse the whom suggested they create a social club. first name.” more visible. Empty Closet issues; Go to 1974 – June In September Del and Phyllis accepted an Soon after forming, the DOB wrote In 1964, Martin and Lyon began to HIGHLIGHTS FROM CALEN- invitation to get together with three other a mission statement that addressed the control less of the organization, saying, DAR OF EVENTS: female couples in San Francisco. most significant problem Del Martin “We felt that if the organization had any SUN 2 JUNE: BUSINESS MEET- The eight lesbians who gathered that and Phyllis Lyon had faced as a couple: validity at all it couldn’t be based on two ING/OPEN FORUM. The formal busi- Friday night at Noni and Mary’s hoped the complete lack of information about people, it had to be able to stand and ness agenda will be followed by an open there would be other women in the Bay female homosexuality in what historian grow on its own. And it was never going forum where anyone can take the floor. area who would want to enjoy parties Martin Meeker termed, “the most fun- to do it if we didn’t move out.” MON 3 JUNE: COUNSELING and conversation in the privacy of one damental journey a lesbian has to make.” The Homophile Movement was influ- WORKSHOP. For assigned office staff another’s homes. One of their priorities When the club realized they were not enced by the successful activism of the only. was to have a place to dance, as danc- allowed to advertise their meetings in the Civil Rights Movement, and in the mid- SUN 9 JUNE: CHRISTOPHER ing with the same sex in a public place local newspaper, Del and Phyllis, who 1960s feminism became a much higher STREET LIBERATION DAY RALLY. was illegal. Although unsure of how both had backgrounds in journalism, priority to many of the women in the POT-LUCK DINNER. SPEAKER: exactly to proceed with the group, they began to print a newsletter to distribute organization. In 1966, Del Martin and BARBARA GITTINGS, nationally began to meet regularly, realized they to as many women as the group knew. In Phyllis Lyon joined the National Orga- known gay activist. should be organized, and quickly elected October 1956 it became The Ladder, the nization for Women, and urged readers SUN 16 JUNE: GAY FOLK DANC- Del Martin as president. From the start first nationally distributed lesbian publi- of The Ladder to do the same. Changing ING/GAY COFFEE HOUSE. Featuring they had a clear focus to educate other cation in the U.S. and one of the first to times revealed younger members did not Mary Jane and Harlan Ketterllng in the women about lesbians, and reduce their publish statistics on lesbians. Del Martin share the concerns with older members; Regular Restaurant. Voluntary participa- self-loathing brought on by the socially was the first president of DOB and Phyl- they were more moved by revolutionary tion for everyone. repressive times. lis Lyon became the editor of The Ladder. tactics. SUN 23 JUNE: A BRIEF SURVEY The name of the newfound club was The DOB advertised itself as “A As a national organization, the OF SO-CALLED SCIENTIFIC OPIN- chosen in its second meeting. Bilitis is Woman’s Organization for the purpose of Daughters of Bilitis folded in 1970, IONS ABOUT HOMOSEXUALITY. the name given to a fictional lesbian Promoting the Integration of the Homo- although some local chapters still con- With a Psychology doctoral student. contemporary of Sappho, by the French sexual into Society.” The statement was tinued. By 1972, The Ladder had run OTHER EVENTS OF INTEREST poet Pierre Louÿs in his 1894 work The composed of four parts that prioritized out of funds and it folded. Some DOB EVERY WEEK Songs of Bilitis in which Bilitis lived on the purpose of the organization, and it chapters—notably, New York and San SUNDAYS: Worship at Christ the Isle of Lesbos alongside Sappho. The was printed on the inside of the cover Francisco—kept organizing throughout Church United, 1074 Portland. Trans- name was chosen for its obscurity; even of every issue of The Ladder until 1970: the 1970s and the DOB group in Boston portation for 10:45 service leaves Bach- Del and Phyllis did not know what it “Education of the variant; Education of was active until 1995. elor Forum, East Main at Goodman, at meant. “Daughters” was meant to evoke the public; Participation in research proj- The small secret San Francisco social 10:15. association with other American social ects by duly authorized and responsible club had helped launch an internation- WEDNESDAYS: Gay Radio Pro- associations such as the Daughters of psychologists, sociologists, and other such al lesbian movement. The Daughters gram, “GREEN THURSDAYS” WCMP- the American Revolution. Early DOB experts directed towards further knowl- of Bilitis stands today as an important PM, 96,5 MHz, Wednesday midnight. members felt they had to follow two con- edge of the homosexual; Investigation of example of women’s organizing during THURSDAYS: Gay Task Force tradictory approaches: trying to recruit the penal code as it pertain to the homo- oppressive times. Historian Lillian Fader- meets, 2 Fuller place, 8pm interested potential members and being sexual, proposal of changes... and promo- man declared, “Its very establishment in ROCHESTER. NY GAY GROUPS secretive. tion of these changes through the due the midst of witch-hunts and police harass- INCLUDE: While DOB started as a small, secret process of law in the state legislatures.” ment was an act of courage, since members Gay Alliance Of The Genesee Valley, social club, by the early 1960s there were New York chapter president Barbara always had to fear that they were under Inc (GAGV); University Of Rochester chapters in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Gittings noted that the word “variant” attack, not because of what they did, but Gay Liberation Front (GLP); Gay Revo- New York, as well as San Francisco, and was used instead of “lesbian” in the mis- merely because of who they were.” lution Of Women (GROW); Rochester a well-regarded monthly magazine by and sion statement, because “lesbian” was a The impact of the fourteen-year run Gay Youth. 22 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

For my big sister’s married-during- and knee-high black boots.) semester-break wedding (no shot gun My maid-of-honor-again sister in a flo- required) Mommy made my shiny satin, ral gown and I the bleached-blonde bride red, floor length dress. My Grandma Bea in an elegant turquoise, jacketed gown, Columnists was so tiny that I could wear her stock- and the groom in his tasteful, tailor- ings and her garter belt. Oh yes, I felt like made brown suit stood proudly. Unfor- a Big Girl. tunately, we three happy campers were The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other contributing writers White chrysanthemums encircled my surrounded by psychological wolves. A are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the Gay big-fat-ponytail hair pulled back, eye-ball coerced, disgruntled father, not in favor popping tight. I carried a green wicker of his divorced daughter’s marriage, wore Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. wreath... decked with balls of red, green a scowl. An anxious mother in her strange holly leaves, and more white mums... in costume frowned. The groom’s family, the sweaty grasp of my quaking fingers. seriously disgruntled by awkward realities G rowing Up politics, so thinking it unwise to register Apparently sweat was the precursor of of second marriages, was absent. Mo m, Better Late Than as either Republican or Democrat, she hysteria, because, after the recessional, my At my fifth wedding, overlooking registered as Liberal, not understanding splashing tears set the Wedding Planner Lake Ontario, we shared poetry and sto- Never the significance of that choice. She dis- into rescue mode. She shoved a bottle of ries. I was one of the brides. I wore a liked Jimmy Carter because his daughter smelling salts under my nose. layered black silk outfit with a flowing By Eric Bellmann had crooked teeth. Her favorite politician I’m a commit- For my third wedding, I was the tra- lavender robe and my friend’s amethyst was Spiro Agnew because he came down ditionally clad, heterosexual bride, given necklace. ted homemaker, hard on students during the turbulent lol. I love to iron, away by my father, a mere two weeks after Sixth wedding to report: And yes, ‘60s. Mom and I did not have a lot to talk my graduation from college. (Or as my once upon a time, I did participate in a clean, do laundry, about. weird as that seems. therapist identified it, I made the Leap of marriage-equality event in a daisy-filled Do I miss her? Not really. Our time Homophobic Hysteria into a life of I-am- field on Cape Cod. I wore a just-picked People often tell me together was what it was and then it was that I’m welcome not-a-lesbian... see I can prove it... I have Queen Anne’s Lace flower inside my over, time for me to move along. I think a husband, have been branded with a new Grandmother’s glass locket. I was the to come over and she was relieved not to have to deal any whip their homes last name.) bride in the floppy brimmed straw hat. longer with the child who had confound- For this important themed event, my Ah, weddings. How different they into shape, an invitation that I ignore. ed her at almost every turn. I don’t understand how people can hire color scheme was girly-girly pink and are from weddings of yore. Of yours. She reinvented me. I became a man white. My wedding gown was a tad too Of mine. I like them so much that I am outside help. who liked to travel. She saved articles I have a collection of rags I use. Over short but the price tag fit. My white satin designing my bridal gown for my next about Turkey for me. She found an old slippers were short-heeled because my wedding. I will be draped in rainbows, time they have acquired a muddy color Turkish/English dictionary in a garage and splotches of resistant stains. I real- groom was short-legged. My sister was my crowned with stars, and pretty little Dis- sale and bought it for me. We evolved maid of honor. (Now that I think of it, my ney bluebirds will carry my train of vio- ized I could soak those rags for a consid- into a greeting card relationship: “The sun erable time before I switched the washing sister stood up for me at three of my four lets. Save the date. March 2044. is shining, the cat is sleeping in the win- weddings. A kind of recycling project.) [email protected] machine on to its cycle. How did I know dow, etc.” It was a narrow channel, but it to do that? Groom and I were married in a church. worked rather well for both of us. Neither of us were members. In my old My mother always soaked laundry My mother was a survivor. She came F aith Matters before washing it. days, lots of people rented quaint church to America at 19 only speaking German. buildings (embellished with stained glass Mi litary’s ban on nappy My mother was not an easy person She worked as a housekeeper, a cook, then and I’m pretty sure she thought the same windows, gilded paintings, and intricate- hair found a career as a bank clerk. Aban- ly carved pews) for rituals of tying and of me. When she finally moved to New doned by her husband, she raised two By Rev. Irene Mexico where the climate was better for dying. children and worried about all her rela- Nowadays weddings are inventive Monroe her arthritis, I sarcastically observed that tives in her war torn homeland. She was African Ameri- I was glad America was a big country. My expressions of a couple’s personalities, a stoic. not old fashioned traditions. One elegant can female service yearly visits were agony, although I came I wish we could have had a few more members comprise to love the landscape there much as she wedding I attended was on a Colorado conversations. I know so little about her mountain top with tuxedo-attired musi- the highest percent- did. early struggles but I can imagine them, age of women in the Then she died. I kept returning to cians playing string instruments as the not really so unlike my own. I have found bride, in soft billows of silk, began her military. And with New Mexico, even visiting the forlorn compassion for her, much to my relief and these sister service- town in the barren southwestern corner promenade. The crystals on her long, lacy joy. Truth be told, I do miss her. train sparkled. She glided down the satin women enlisting in of the state where she lived, quite con- Email: ericlbellmann @gmail.com the military at higher rates than their tentedly, the last 20 years of her life. At runner escorted by both her father and her step-father. white, Asian and Latina sisters to serve first I went every two years, then each and die for our country, the last thing year. Finally, I stopped. Too much had C leaning My Closet Another amazing wedding was in a park, next to a spectacular gorge explod- the military should be squawking about changed. All the mom and pop Mexican N ever a bridesmaid is our hair. restaurants had been forced out of busi- ing with fall colors. On either side of the By Meredith rose petal path, pumpkins’ faces smiled, In March the Army released an updat- ness by national franchises. ed policy on appearance and grooming, The absolute great discovery, for me, Elizabeth welcoming positive energy and good spir- Reiniger its. The outer side of the pumpkins had titled “AR 670-1,” limiting or banning has been what the passage of time has hairstyles -- braids, twists, cornrows, and accomplished. Again, I’m afraid with sar- Wedding bells malevolent expressions to keep bad spirits and wedding belles. at bay. (Powerful symbols for the bride, a dreadlocks -- inimitable to African Amer- casm, I observed how much our relation- ican women. ship improved after her death. But that I have a Madame self-proclaimed witch.) Alexander wed- When our heads turned, a shimmering The Congressional Black Cau- wasn’t really a joke. No more daily battles. cus, outraged, sent a letter to Secretary Just memories. It’s taken me a while to ding doll. Kept in white vision appeared from the autumn a closet since 1954. woods, as the gowned bride, with her of Defense Chuck Hagel stating, “the consider her gifts to me. Army policy’s language was ‘offensive’ I know how to set a formal table, where Her paper bouquet beaming father, joined her groom wearing is crushed. One satin shoe is missing. his U.S. Cavalry uniform. The officiating and ‘biased.’” the silverware goes and that the dinner In 2007, Imus, who has always been an plate should be placed a distance from the The elastic has rotted on her white satin Wiccan Priestess, wearing her long, flow- underpants. ing, red-velvet cape, offered sage advice to equal opportunity offender with his no- edge of the table that is the width of two holds-barred humor, assailed broad demo- fingers. Weekends my mother had a sec- In my first wedding, I was an ador- the witch and the warrior. able, pudgy-bodied flower girl with gig- This year, dear, young Halcyon graphics of the American public, from ond job cooking for a well-to-do family. heads of states to homeless citizens. When I’d come on Sunday after church and help gling blonde ringlets. My fancy gownette Brooke’s wedding will be in Colorado, was a replica of the bride’s luscious velvet at the edge of the Arkansas River, in the Imus ridiculed the Rutgers women’s bas- her set their table, then eat in the kitchen ketball team he hurled a gender specific while she did the dishes. and satin gown. I loved being fancy and town of Salida, 7,083 feet above sea level. frilly, a beaming beauty parading down Hally and her love have chosen to be sur- racial invective about black women’s hair She always worked two jobs. A bank that struck a raw nerve in the African clerk during the week, a maid/house- a white runner, admired by an aahh and rounded by nature’s awesome beauty and ooohhh crowd. nine attendants wearing yellow sundresses American community. He ridiculed the keeper on weekends. I always had two Rutgers women’s basketball team by not jobs, teaching in college and weekend art At that magic moment, my six-year- and cowboy boots. old self knew that I too would be a bride, And dear out-of-this-world crazy-wild only calling them “hos,” but by also call- classes. Even after I retired from full time ing them “nappy-headed” ones. work, I kept selling work at Art fairs. I a real life princess adorned and adored. Kathryn Elizabeth’s wedding will be in Of course, my gullible little girl could not New York, 406 feet above sea level, in The other n-word in the African know the value of money. American community. My sister, who also had a troubled have imagined that I would be playing the Strasenburgh Planetarium with the that role, not once, not twice, but four reception in her unique environment, the In 2010 Gabrielle Christina Victo- relationship with our mother, perhaps ria “Gabby” Douglas was one of that out of guilt, each holiday would send times. Rochester Museum and Science Center, a For my second wedding, I was the short stroll from the north-flowing Gen- year’s Olympic darlings. her an extravagant gift, a good purse, a As a member of the U.S. Women’s silk blouse. After her death, we found all maid of honor for my big sister’s first esee River. wedding, December 1956. It was a can- And both brides, unlike dear old, Gymnastics team, Gabby is the first Afri- these things still in their boxes, “saved can American gymnast and women of for good”. That seemed so sad. I found a dle light ceremony... until developed film used-to-be-conventional me, have invit- revealed that she had an unlit candles cer- ed each attendant to choose a dress to color, in Olympic history, to win gold perfect leather jacket in Taos one year. It medals in the individual all-around and hangs in a closet, never worn. I suppose emony. fit her own style preferences, body-type, I was twelve. She was grown up, I and budget. Unlike my attendants (five team competitions at the same Olympics. I’m “saving it for good”. When she won the gold the blogosphere My mother never had guests over. She thought. Our parents thought her nine- decades ago when I was tradition-bound), teen years still left her in childhood. who were subjected to my choice of nev- blew up expectedly with a torrent of con- valued her privacy. Perhaps also she was gratulations. But the blogosphere blew up ashamed of how modestly she lived. I Our father was dismayed (actually really er-to-be-worn-again, big-expense dresses. angry) that his college sophomore, first- And silly flying saucer hats. unexpectedly with a deluge of condemna- don’t know. She never said. I am more of a tions, too. recluse than not. I have to make a consid- born daughter was jeopardizing the possi- I reprised my role as heterosexual bride bility of graduating from college. (A time at the fourth wedding. Performed, not in Douglas’s hair had been the topic of a erable effort to let friends visit. And that’s ton of e-chatter since she stepped onto the odd because I’m often lonely. My mother in history when persons graduated FROM a romantic setting, but in a judge’s office. college. Not graduated college. Ah me, oh (Which might explain why my mother Olympic world stage. If Douglas wasn’t was lonely, too. privy to what the condemnations was She didn’t want anyone to know her my, the good old days.) went casual: leopard skirt, pink sweater, june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 23 about it, she quickly learned; and it lied at it wanted to grow, to be itself... to be left It didn’t get the car repaired, but the our gay dinner guests who said, “If you one of the roots of the universal denigra- alone by anyone, including me, who did man did stop honking his horn. had told me that we would love having a tion of black beauty -- our hair. not love it as it was.” I don’t think my father has ever had a meal with two straight jocks, I would have This issue of black women’s hair tex- While many African American women very clear view of the future. I remember told you that you were nuts. But we had a ture is inescapable and continues to dog today wear their hair in afros, cornrows, when he used to watch Star Trek on tele- great, great time.” us women all throughout the African locks, braids, Senegalese twists, wraps or vision with me every week. It was classic “So did our neighbors,” I assured him. continent and African diaspora -- young bald, our hair -- both symbolically and Star Trek with William Shatner, Leonard There are lessons to be learned from and old. literally -- continues to be a battlefield in Nimoy and about $14 per episode for spe- the unexpected joy we experience in what When a tsunami of criticisms poured this country’s politics of hair and beauty cial effects. Although Dad never under- we imagine will be awkward and uncom- in about Gabby’s over-gelled and under- aesthetics within and outside of the Afri- stood why Spock’s ears were pointy or fortable situations. One lesson that I’ve tamed ponytail, and -- yes, that very can American community. what the difference was between a Klin- learned is that we human beings have an touchy subject for African American gon and a Romulan, he did have one very amazing capacity to find common ground women -- her nappy edges, it dredged up A Few Bricks Short strong complaint about the show. He just with those not in our comfort zone, that and fostered the misperception of how couldn’t accept the fact that in the far- regardless of our age, we have the ability could any put-together and accomplished Father’s Day flung future there were no telephones. to learn from our new experiences, and black woman with fleecy wooly wild hair By David Hull “You mean to tell me,” he’d grumble. that we take delight in our own growth. be happy being nappy. June is the “No one can get to a phone in the future. Our gay male friends, and our straight, While many sisters today might use month we cele- There’s no phone anywhere? Not even a football-playing, next-door neighbors a hot comb on their hair, hot combs also brate our fathers, pay phone? Everyone has to run around ended up talking at dinner, mostly about called straightening combs were around and although I’ve carrying their own phone with them? movies and TV shows, but also about in the 1880s, sold in Sears and Blooming- used this column to That doesn’t make any sense!” the best places to eat, and to have your dales catalogs to a predominately white write about (com- Now, 35 years later, everyone really car washed in Ft. Lauderdale. We also female clientele. plain about?) my is running around carrying their own talked about the inherent challenges of Madam C.J. Walker, the first African mother, I realize phone with them. Oh well, that probably being famous, about whether openly gay American millionaire for her inventions of I’ve written little explains why Dad has never gotten rich Michael Sam would feel comfortable in black hair products, didn’t invent the hot about my Dad. So, before anyone accuses investing in the stock market. “Apple? the Dolphins’ locker room, and of the comb; she popularized its use by remedy- me of having any “daddy issues,” I figure A whole company called Apple? Who funny stories that come from operat- ing the perceived “curse” of nappy hair this would be a good opportunity to write the heck wants stock in apples? That’s ing a gay, male, clothing-optional guest- with her hair-straightening products that about him. as ridiculous as that other silly company house. They made each other laugh, and continue to this day to bring comfort to Although my Dad now lives in assisted the broker wanted me to invest in called they felt like friends for the time we sat many black women. living and he’s not as young or mobile as Microsoft!” together. All of them commented later While the etymology of the word he used to be, he’s still fairly healthy and OK, so my Dad won’t be leaving me that they had imagined a much different “nappy” derives from Britain, meaning a happy. He’s made sensible plans for the a fortune to inherit when he’s gone, but experience, and they were happy it was so baby’s cotton napkin or diaper, in Amer- future when he told my sister: “When I I like to think I’ve already inherited his much fun. ica the word became racialized to mean die, make sure you bury me in a pair of sense of humor. Well, I guess a good sense Another lesson that I take from this unkempt, wild and wooly hair associated sweatpants and a T-shirt. I want to be of humor is worth a fortune, right? How- experience, and many others like it at with people of African descent. And used comfortable just in case I go to Hell.” ever, like my Dad always tells me, if you our dinner table, is the awareness of how to demean and to degrade African Ameri- When I was much younger and just have a fortune, who the heck needs a sense many people would love to join the circles cans. starting out on my own, I was talking to of humor! of hand-holding that Ray and I, and many But even with good intentions the land my Dad about my finances, or my lack of Contact David at [email protected] others, create. I’m not thinking here about mine can be detonated. In 1998 Ruth them, and he told me the method that he just those who are starving, or who daily Ann Sherman, a white third grade teach- and my mother used to deal with bill col- B rian’s Views face horrific state or religion-sanctioned er, who taught in a predominately African lectors when they were first married and Who is not holding persecution because of their faith, sex, ori- American and Latino elementary school short on cash. When the bill collectors entation, ethnicity, gender expression, or in Brooklyn, learned that lesson when she called, Dad would tell them, “Now at the hands? other factor. I’m thinking about all of the read African American author Carolivia end of every month, we put all the bills people who feel lonely, misunderstood, Herron’s award winning children’s book By Brian and powerless. we owe into a big jar, then we pull one McNaught “Nappy Hair, ” a celebration of black hair. out and that’s the bill we pay that month. When I join hands with people in And let not forget, the Sesame Street We customari- Ray’s and my home, I want them to feel If you keep calling me and bothering me ly hold hands with controversial song “I Love My Hair,” a – then we’re not going to put your bill in safe and valued. Those feelings don’t come remix of “Whip My Hair” sung by Willow guests before starting easily for many people. Part of the reason the jar anymore.” dinner. Not long ago, Smith, daughter of actors Will and Jada I’m not sure if that’s really true or not, some people feel so isolated is that our Pinkett Smith. Intended to promote self- one of the stars of fears of encountering them help isolate but I do like that story. the Miami Dolphins pride, the song received mixed reviews One time when I was a kid we were them. Because so many people are outside within the African American community held hands with his of our comfort zone, it becomes less likely traveling somewhere in the family car; younger brother, also with some critiquing it as a black acco- Dad, Mom, my brother, my sister and me. that we’ll take their hand at the dinner modationist version of white girls flinging well known for the sport, and with Ray. I table. I’m thinking of the person who is At an intersection the car trembled, sput- held hands with the younger brother, and their tresses. tered and stopped. My father jumped out, homeless, “deformed,” has been convicted Renowned African American femi- with a gay man to my left, who owns a of a crime, is dying, or is a prostitute or a lifted the hood and the engine released a local gay guesthouse. nist author Alice Walker spoke about the billow of steam. My father did what he cross-dresser, among others. constraints of hair and beauty ideals in My gay friend held the hand of his My experience is that when these peo- always did when the car broke down – he spouse, who also held Ray’s hand. Hold- African American culture. In her address began swearing. I never actually saw him ple somehow get seated at the table, Ray “Oppressed hair puts a ceiling on the ing hands and being quiet before a meal and I get far more out of it than they do. fix a car, but I do remember him swearing allows us to focus on the moment, with brain,” Walker, at the all-women’s histori- at vehicles a lot! The gift of holding the hand of someone cally black college Spelman in Atlanta in awareness of what we have, and of those who frightens you is that your mind and While my father was leaning over the not at our table who are hungry, lonely, April 1987, stated the following: engine, still swearing, a car pulled up heart expand. It is no less a meaningful “I am going to talk to you about hair. and frightened. life experience than traveling to a foreign behind us and the driver began honking When I finished sharing my thoughts Don’t give a thought to the state of yours his horn. After a few honks, my father land, learning a new language, and tasting at the moment. This is not an appraisal.... about our bounty, the need for gratitude, new food. Having someone scary “at your threw up his hands and stomped back to and about those who have so much less, it occurred to me that in my physical the car behind us. table” is all of that and more, because it self there remained on last barrier to my the football celebrity said, “If you had told is an experience in which you are not an “I have an idea,” my Dad said to the me a year ago that I’d be sitting here with spiritual liberation: my hair.... I realized I man behind the wheel. “Why don’t you observer, but rather a participant, a cre- have never been given the opportunity to you guys, I would have told you that you ator, and a game changer. go up there and fix my car and I’ll sit here were crazy.” appreciate my hair for its true self... Even- and honk your horn.” A few weeks after their first encounter, tually, I knew precisely what hair wanted: The next morning, in the produce sec- our straight neighbors and our gay friends tion of the grocery store, I ran into one of 24 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014 were brought together again at our table. the Music Hall had nothing to do with sure is to speak loudly, so loudly that they ebrated and encouraged over a man in I noticed how easily conversations started their own website content and that the cannot avoid hearing us over their own women’s clothing. Why in drag does it as soon as they saw each other. Hands promoter was the party at fault. A quick speech and their own fingers in their ears. seem to be the reverse? were held more readily. Laughter came web search showed that the majority of I hope that someday we will not need to I think in this discussion it is impor- more quickly. other sites had current information on the fight for our identities, but until then we tant to note that there is a distinction In my reflections on our bounty, the band; outdated information was actually must raise our voices and insist on being between how gender is evaluated in regard value of gratitude, and on those who feel hard to come by. treated and known, not as the people that to drag performance and, for lack of a alone and unwanted, I reminded them of I didn’t attend the event. I’ll buy others wish we were, but as the people better term, the world at large. Women the comments each made the last time albums to support the band, but I wasn’t that we are. seem to be praised and indeed, appear to about their shock and delight in meeting going to give money to a venue that sup- move up the social totem-pole, when they one other. They nodded, and then began ported a blatant act of trans* erasure. What’s Bothering present as more masculine than femi- debating which was the best of the movies Other Trans* and LGBT folks who might nine. We see women who dress in tra- inspired by Marvel comics. have been willing to attend that day did Brandon? ditionally masculine attire as sober, free not either, and at this point I can’t imag- Question of Royalty of their menstruation-related/foggy emo- T rans*missions ine patronizing the venue in the future, tions, essentially reformed. and will discourage other LGBT folks and By Brandon W. Social psychologists and sociologists A gainst Me! and Trans* allies from doing so as well. They clearly Brooks alike agree that in times of increased Erasure do not care about their reputation among By this time the female empowerment, especially in the winner of RuPaul’s world of the workplace, women tend By Laine DeLaney a community known for its appreciation and patronage of the arts. Drag Race season to dress more traditionally “masculine” Recently a con- 6 will have been than in times of uneventful or unsuccess- cert was held at the Why get so troubled by this? Trans* erasure is a real crime that occurs con- announced (here’s ful female empowerment. Gender-fashion Water Street music hoping it’s Adore analysts make note that the 1980s were an Hall. The headlin- stantly both in public venues and on a pri- vate social level. Due to embarrassment, Delano). However, exceptional time to see this in effect (i.e. ing act was Against as I write this, the militant shoulder-pads and the invention Me!, a punk band bigotry, fear of “queer by association”, or simple ignorance, trans* people are often winner has yet to be selected by Mama of the pants suit). that made a media Ru, adding an element of welcome antici- This is not the case for men, however. splash a few years referred to in media by names that they no longer use and identities that do not fit pation to my upcoming week. In fact, most gender-fashion analysts state back when their Throughout this anticipation, a that men’s fashion has all but hit a stand- lead singer came out as transgender. them. Their contributions after taking the brave and often dangerous step of com- thought came to me (or rather a question): still over the past hundred or so years; the Although it was on the same day as could there ever be an equally successful ubiquitous men’s suit has almost stayed a Trans* Alliance of Greater Rochester ing out are written off, disregarded as the identities that they fight daily to maintain show or spin-off about Drag Kings? A the same. And God knows that we don’t meeting, I wanted to go to the show to RuPaul’s Drag-King Race perhaps? are ignored. see men wearing skirts and sweater-sets support the band. I hadn’t heard of them RuPaul’s Drag Race has just been during times of increased male empower- until Laura Jane Grace came out, but I Rather than deal with the fact that lauded by countless critiques, newspa- trans* people can and do make contribu- ment (which is, after all, always). was gratified to find a new punk band pers, magazines, and periodicals for its In the world of drag performance, whose music I appreciated (I tend to pre- tions to society, the person that they sup- incredibly entertaining, heartwarming, posedly were before is given credit for the on the other hand, this valuing of gen- fer the sound of older punk when I’m in heart-shattering and talented queens, and der presentation based on the perform- that sort of mood). Laura Jane’s band- accomplishments that they forged and certainly its rich drama. It has brought completed and deserve to be known for. er seems flipped. Here, men who dress mates and partner have been nothing but the world of drag, Trans and gender-bend- in the often exaggerated trappings of supportive of her transition, including The commendations go to a person who ing (sorry GLAAD) into the limelight in many ways does not and has never truly femininity and femaleness (drag queens) the writing and performing of their latest of mainstream, heteronormative society. are celebrated, glamorized, revered, and album Transgender Dysphoria Blues. existed. Grandmothers are using terms that, only Erasure is a micro-aggression like so perhaps most importantly, paid. They However, the very well-written band a mere ten years ago, would have been are seen as courageous, fierce (sickening biography and discography that the Water many others, one meant to keep trans* uttered only by those privy to the LGBT people and our identities out of public no?) and often become iconic members Street Music Hall had on the page of their lexicon. of their surrounding LGBT community. website for the show cut off chronologi- discourse. We experience it in day-to-day It has made celebrities of its already life when we encounter deliberate mis- Drag kings certainly exist, and frequently cally right before the announcement of well-known queens, showcased and cel- alongside drag queens, but more often her trans* identity. Not only that, but it gendering, use of inappropriate honorif- ebrated the transition of a few of its con- ics and titles, assumptions that appear to with less hype and enthusiasm bestowed used the wrong name and pronouns for testants post-finish line, and broached upon them. Why is this? the lead singer! No mention was even be merely inconsiderate but are obviously the subject of HIV/AIDS with grace and on some level calculated, confrontations Could it be that women-dressed-as- made of the album that they were tour- poise. It has also divided the entitled men are seen as committing less of a ing for. about legal documentation, and more. and often naïve LGBT youth generation, gender transgression than men dressed Emails were sent and contacts were Erasure, though, is a habit of those with its use of tongue-in-cheek humor as women? Are we so used to seeing made. I explained that no one was who are uncomfortable with our actual and camp, most apparent in Drag Race’s women dressed in traditional male garb requesting that a big deal be made of the existence and want to write us out of it – recent removal of its “She-Mail” delivery (i.e. pants) that we no longer see this as lead singer’s trans* status or that it even like the Ancient Egyptians chipping away from every episode henceforth. Instead of a transgression in the first place? I think be mentioned. The request was simply the names of criminals from their hiero- viewing this as a humorous (and respect- this may be part of a very complex, and that her proper (and legal) name and pro- glyphs. People who seek to erase us seek to ful) acknowledgement of gender fluidity, conflicting, answer. nouns be used, and her full discography deny us our hard-earned accomplishments some decided this was just too much to be shared, including the album that the Since femininity is clearly undervalued and triumphs and assign them to figures bear. I shan’t go any further into this sub- and demonized, the reason men-dressed- band was touring to support. My words that do not represent us. ject in an attempt to avoid upsetting trans were met with deaf ears as I was told that as-women receive so much more attention The only way to overcome this era- people who do not like those terms. may be due to the fact that, in some way, Moving on to my original question… this is more of a spectacle than a woman With RuPaul’s Drag Race being so dressed as a man. For a man to forfeit his successful itself, could there be an equally masculinity, and by proxy his maleness, acclaimed drag King race? This question and proudly (and loudly) perform in exag- Learn the of mine brings up several issues within the gerated female trappings, a gender expres- history of the realms of biological sex, gender identity sion so “less than”, that is spectacle. and expression, and the valuing of certain Although I certainly lack the charis- LGBT community gender performances and identities over ma, uniqueness, nerve and talent needed others. to be a successful drag queen performer, in Rochester... In columns past, and indeed in “real I do personally lament men’s resistance life”, the message has been made clear that to incorporate more traditionally female masculinity, over all other gender identi- aspects of fashion into the male wardrobe ...from the people ties and expressions, is highly valued. We at large. Especially in spring, I really envy tend to be more comfortable with women the fact that women can arrive in flowing, who made that behaving and dressing “as men” (pants are ventilating skirts and sun dresses. Men’s no longer an exclusively “male” garment), fashion, especially professional attire, is history. than with men behaving and dressing really boring and I agree it has hit a stand- “as women.” I put both “as men” and “as still considering its stagnancy over the women” in quotes in order to illustrate past hundred years. Women at least have The Gay Alliance that these seemingly timeless truths of so many more options in terms of color, biological sex are more so constructs that texture, fabric, cut and fitting. invites you to celebrate 40 years of we have maintained and cultivated, than I suppose I could “man-up” (associat- LGBT history in Rochester with your very absolute constants. ing courage with maleness as we do) and The valuing of masculinity and male- put on a skirt, walk down the street with own DVD/BluRay of this powerful film. ness over femininity and femaleness goes a “women’s-wear, don’t care” attitude, but back thousands of years sadly; indeed I’d soon tire of having to explain myself Venus was put on the back burner (and to appease heteronormative comfort. Per- Shoulders To Stand On demonized) several millennia ago. So, why haps (or rather, certainly) this is one of is a man in the traditional (albeit often pur- the privileges of being cisgendered; I don’t Evelyn Bailey, Executive Producer posefully exaggerated) trappings of femi- have to explain myself as I internally iden- Kevin Indovino, Producer/Director/Writer ninity and femaleness more entertaining, tify easily and “naturally” with the sex more outrageous and ultimately more prof- into which I was born. itable than a woman in the traditional trap- I refuse to stop wearing my home- Standard DVD $25 / BluRay DVD $30 pings of masculinity and maleness? made, pushy-sleeved button-ups though; One would think that with society Anne of Green Gables eat your heart out. Order at: www.GayAlliance.org valuing masculinity over femininity, a Questions, comments or critique? Please women wearing men’s clothing and pre- feel free to e-mail the author at: brandonb@ senting as a man would be lauded, cel- gayalliance.org june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 25 Community Find the friends, fun, and common interests you’re looking for through the various groups listed here.

Dignity-Integrity nett, 585-463-2731, or Wanda Martinez/ necessary step toward pushing for our goal Laine DeLaney has appointed the fol- Dawn Smith, 585-205-3360. of incorporating. This will not change our lowing members to the following posi- D-I Rochester meets weekly at 5 p.m. standard meetings, but will provide us tions: Archivist & Historian: JoAnne at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. ROMANS the structure that we need to continue to Metzler; Parliamentarian: JC Acosta. Fitzhugh Street, corner of Broad St. We expand to serve a broader range of needs The Trans* Alliance of Greater Roch- have the following services and activities At last we are getting out of the long for the trans* community, through public ester meets twice a month, on the second for the month of June, 2014 winter that has damaged a lot of our grape Saturday for our Planning Meeting and 1st Sunday: Episcopal Mass/Healing projects and outreach to and support of crop in the area. Slowly but surely, we will other community organizations. on the last Saturday for our Support/Edu- Service, with music. be able to get naked outdoors on some hot As for the planning meeting, these are cation meeting. Both meetings are held 2nd Sunday: Roman Catholic Liturgy summer days. between 3 and 5:30 p.m. Meetings are of the Word, with music. ROMANS’ first attempt at an outdoor the positions to which we have elected held at the MCC Open Arms Communi- 3rd Sunday: Episcopal Mass. gathering will be on June 21 at the Empire members: President: Laine DeLaney; Vice ty Center at 707 Main Street, Rochester. 4th Sunday: Evening Prayer, followed Haven Nudist Park in Moravia, New President: Simon Grey; Treasurer: JoAnne It’s located across from the Delta Sonic by a Potluck Dinner! York. We have arranged with the park to Metzler. These positions have terms of and next to the RAPA building. People of 5th Sunday: No service on June 29. provide ROMANS and Naturist Roches- one year, after which they will be voted all gender identities are welcome to come, June is Garage Sale time! We’ll be ter members discounted entrance fee for on again. including allies! holding our annual sale on the last week- the day from 12 noon to 5 p.m. end of June, Friday to Sunday, June 27-29 Members can enjoy the swimming at a home in Penfield. Watch for the pool, hot tubs, sauna room, etc. at the address and times on Craigslist earlier in campground for the day and meet mem- the week prior to the sale and stop by to bers of other nude groups in the area. shop for great bargains! ROMANS members will also have a Our fourth Sunday Potluck theme regular club meeting and BBQ at one of for June is “Summer Salads”. This is a the campsites. We are keeping our fingers tried and true favorite theme and since crossed for nice weather. the weather has finally started to heat up, In June, some ROMANS members there should be some wonderful fare on will celebrate World Pride in Toronto our table. No time to cook or shop? Just and some will join Buffalo’s In-the-Buff ask a friend or two and join us for food nude group one weekend at Jones Pond and fun! Campground. It’s good to feel the warm You can call the Hotline at 585-234- sun again. Join us to enjoy the summer in 5092 or check our website at www.di- naked outdoor fun. rochester.org/ for updates on services and ROMANS is a social club for gay activities. and gay-friendly male nudists over 21. For more information, please check out our website at www.wnyromans.com. You can also contact the ROMANS at mes- sage line 585-281-4964, by E-mail wny- [email protected] or via regular mail at PO Box 92293, Rochester, NY 14692. T rans* Alliance of Greater Rochester (T*AGR) Hello everybody! As you all know, the Trans* Alliance of Greater Rochester has been experienc- ing growth and maturation in both pur- pose and structure recently. First the Steering Group was dissolved, as we hadn’t found it to be an effective way to organize our meetings, and then the Planning Meetings were instituted with the hope that they would provide us with space to make decisions about con- tent, time and location for the upcoming G ay Games 9, meetings as well as help members of our Cleveland community coordinate personal projects and interests that intersect with the inter- Opening Ceremonies for Gay Games ests of the trans* community. 9 begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9 and So far, the Planning group has met end with Closing Ceremonies on Satur- three times, and it has successfully day, Aug 16. addressed content and location of upcom- There is still time to register as a par- ing meetings and given us good space to ticipant in one of the 35 sports, or to buy share our ideas about community related tickets as a spectator. Bring your friends projects that we can get behind. At this to spend a fun time only a four-hour drive most recent meeting, however, the sub- from Rochester. ject of some form of legal incorporation Past Gay Games had 10,000 compet- was raised, and all present were in favor ing athletes. Team Rochester has sever- of us working toward this goal. We feel al athletes competing in marathon, half that it would be helpful in our quest for marathon, track, bowling, volleyball and legitimacy and our goal to be a commu- softball and will be marching into the sta- nity organization that can participate on dium Olympic style (T-shirt above). equal footing with other groups and orga- For more information, check out nizations. gg9cle.com or contact thomaso510@mac. Our standard support and education com. meetings on the last Saturday of every month from 3-5:30 p.m. will continue, LGBT Healthy Living now in the space of the MCC Open Arms Community Center (707 E. Main (VA) St.), a block away from our previous loca- Are you a veteran struggling with tion at the Auditorium. It’s an excellent coming out? If you need perspective, sup- location with comfortable seating, easy port and connection with other LGBT access, air conditioning, a refrigerator and individuals, the Canandaigua VA has a microwave, gender-neutral restrooms and new group, LGBT Healthy Living. a welcoming atmosphere. Our planning The group meets the second and meetings will likewise continue as they fourth Thursdays of the month from have been on the second Saturday of the 10-11 a.m., at the Canandaigua VA Build- month. ing 9, Room 8 Library Conference Room. However, we’ve decided to elect and For information, contact Shirleen Ben- appoint positions within the group as a 26 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

The Avenue Pub 39 Year Landmark in the Gay Community

The Avenue Pub 522 Monroe Avenue 585-244-4960 june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 27 Arts & Entertainment

there was little or no distinction between gay and transgender, many gay men feel uncomfort- able that straight people will presume that they are less mas- culine because they are attract- ed to other men. Indeed, many LGB people question why they are linked with T people, thus forgetting.” The film is distributed by New York City-based Kino Lorber EDU, the leading dis- tributor of film to the education market, including universi- ties. Zuber commented, “Kino Lorber is supporting the 18 city screenings in June (addition- al screenings are delayed until later in the year) by waiving any licensing fees. As we have raised moneys to pay for all of the the- ater rentals, all ticket proceeds will go to local non-profit orga- nizations providing services to the transgender community.” What were the greatest chal- lenges during filming, and the The cast of “The Madness of Lady Bright”. George Zuber. greatest reward? “The challenges were proba- A talk with George others we should reach out to bly no more difficult than many $20 at the door. See blacksheep- going through normal things. In Zuber, director of as well. That support contin- filmmakers experience -- coor- theatre.org. May 1964 that was a very radi- ued to expand across the coun- dinating interview schedules, Director Kristy Angevine- cal thing.” “Just Gender” try throughout the succeeding obtaining b-roll materials that Funderburk and actors David The gay world of the Six- augment narration and interview J. Byrne and Darlando Eanon ties was one in which bars and By Susan Jordan months of filming. “The film focuses primarily content, and editing to be inter- talked to The Empty Closet bathhouses were the only places “Just Gender,” a documen- esting while being comprehen- about the plays. where gay, lesbian and bi people tary film on trans issues, will on the diversity of transgender experiences and the challeng- sive in an educational context. “The Madness of Lady could openly interact; transgen- screen here on June 5 at the Lit- The greatest reward has been the Bright,” Darlando Eanon (who der was not yet an identity that tle Theatre, at 7 p.m. es facing transgender people, as well as dawning hope for greater amazing people I met, particu- plays the central role) said, “is even trans people themselves Excellus is Exclusive Sponsor larly the real heroes: transgen- about an aging queen who is los- recognized, except as “transsexu- and the Gay Alliance is the pre- acceptance. While ‘Just Gen- der’ includes some discussion of der people who became visible ing his mind on the hottest day al”. And most interactions in the senting organization, partnering through participation in the film of the year in a tiny apartment in bars and baths were impersonal, with T*AGR, the Trans* Alli- recent developments in further transgender rights and protec- to their neighbors and work col- New York City. Basically there temporary hook-ups rather than ance of Greater Rochester. This leagues for the first time because are two aspects to his personal- meaningful long term relation- screening is one of 18 premieres tions, it doesn’t attempt to pre- dict what is next and how it will they believed in the importance ity, male and female,” Darlando ships, which most gays believed of the film that are taking place of helping others understand.” said. “It’s about the human expe- were impossible for them. in June around the country. occur.” Why does Zuber think so Darlando said, “Some of the Producer/director George references are dated, but the Zuber spoke with The Empty many heterosexual and LGB cis- gendered people feel threatened messages are still valid.” Closet about his film. Why did David Byrne commented, a gay man want to make a film by trans people and reluctant to accept that they are human “The play is really about loneli- about the trans community? ness. Lady B is losing his youth- “As an openly gay man, I beings who should have equal rights? Is it fear of the unknown, ful beauty and descends into thought that I should not only madness because he’s in a world be empathetic to this signifi- brainwashing by the Right and by evangelicals, or a combina- where he can’t connect with peo- cant segment of the lesbian, gay, ple for normal relationships.” bisexual, transgender, and ques- tion? “I believe that there are Also appearing in this play tioning (LGBTQ) community, I are Kiefer Schank and Catie numerous reasons that people are an should be knowledgeable,” Zuber Faltisco. said. “Even more so, as I had uncomfortable (or worse) with ord J “Daddy Violet” dates to 1967 served a full six-year term on people whose gender expres-

san and stars David Byrne, France the Board of Lambda Legal, the sion doesn’t conform to societal u expectations,” he said. “Some of : McClolkey and Louie Podlaski pre-eminent nonprofit organi- as apparently improvising actors. zation challenging through the them are: People typically don’t ho like what they don’t understand, P KristyTO S said, “It’s an exploration courts discrimination against the David J. Byrne, Kristy Angevine-Funderburk and Darlando Eanon. of themes of sexuality. You don’t LGBTQ community and people particularly when expression or know if the three characters are with HIV, I believed my under- behavior challenges their percep- B lack Sheep rience – what if I had done this gay or straight – but there’s sex- standing should be greater than tion of normal. or done that.” ual tension between the three. average. Add to that my respon- “Gender expression that Theatre stages Kristy Angevine-Funderburk There are also references to the sibilities as the Diversity Part- crosses societal boundaries is three plays from added, “The actors also repre- Vietnam war.” ner for the Financial Advisory frequently viewed as rebellious, sent his memories and people “Sex Is Between Two People” Services component of Deloitte especially by youth, and a rebel- Caffe Cino in July he’s known. The play was one of stars Kiefer Schank, Gafei Szeto LLP, one of the largest worldwide lious nature is viewed by many By Susan Jordan the first to show the humanity and Eric Ryan Swanson and accounting and consulting firms as a personal decision or choice. of gay people – normal persons (Continues page 28) – well, I suspect you would ask – “Religion is an important Sixties Gay Pride drama is as I did – ‘How could I still know aspect of many people’s daily coming to town. As noted in so little about the T portion of lives, For many people, trans- May’s Empty Closet, in July my LGBTQ siblings?’” gender persons are not recog- Black Sheep Theatre will present Zuber interviewed many nized or explained in religious three one-act plays by gay play- B ristol Valley Theatre presents trans people for the documen- teachings, and therefore their wrights, originally produced at gay-themed “Next Fall” opening June 26 tary. nature is assumed to be against NYC’s Caffe Cino in the early “I had an opportunity to God’s will. ‘60s. By Susan Jordan attend a portion of a weeklong “People who don’t readily fit The plays are two by Lanford Bristol Valley Theater, the Finger Lakes’ award-winning live gathering of a very diverse group into a masculine or feminine Wilson (“The Madness of Lady professional theater, will present a gay-themed play, Next Fall, June of transgender people, frequently perception of the world create an Bright” and “Sex Is Between 26-July 6 as part of its 2014 50th Anniversary Season. with their spouses or partners. uncomfortable sense of disorder Two People”) and one by George When Luke is injured in a car accident, his partner Adam must I and the cameraman work- for some people. Such lack of Birimisca (“Daddy Violet”). The negotiate Luke’s family and reconcile the differences in their faiths. ing with me were introduced clarity is -- for some people — plays will open July 18, and will Timely and touching, the play exposes the fundamental truth that at the start of the week, and threatening, sometimes to their be staged at 8 p.m. on July 18, we love people both because of – and in spite of – who they are. This the support for what we wanted own gender identity. 19, 20, 24, 25 and 26, and on award-winning play was dubbed “the funniest heartbreaker in town” to accomplish could not have “Gay men are no more like- Sunday July 20 at 2 p.m. The by the New York Times. been stronger. Almost immedi- ly to understand transgender venue is the third floor at Village Next Fall was written by Geoffrey Nauffts and was nominated for ately, several people offered to be people than any other cisgen- Gate on Goodman St. Advance the Tony Award for Best Play in 2010. It is sponsored by The Grain- interviewed, and they suggested der people. Because historically tickets are $16, and admission is (B ristol Valley Theatre continues page 28) 28 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

(B lack Sheep continued from page 27) dates to 1965. Kristy noted, “It is and isn’t about sex. The gist of the story is that two men meet up in a bathhouse and you wonder how they can connect and have a conversa- tion. They’re obviously looking for more than the hook-up they came for. As David said, they are looking for the social construct to form a relationship.” Darlando described his own incredulous reaction to the sexy behavior in dance clubs like the Limelight when he first came to NYC from LA. “I didn’t know what was going on! Those themes still resonate today.” Kristy concluded, “Overall the Caffe Cino project comes about because one of the playwrights from that era, Robert Patrick, is active in letting theatre groups around the country know that this is the 50th anniversary of gay theatre’s birth at Caffe Cino.” As she and David Byrne wrote in their May EC article, it all began when former dancer and entrepreneur Joe Cino opened his coffeehouse-theatre on Cornelia Street in Greenwich Village 50 years ago, and the new gay theatre movement was born. The world had started to change. ■

H arvey Fierstein’s “Casa Valentina” will drag on By Brandon Voss on The Advocate Boys will be girls on Broadway for a bit longer than expected. Casa Valentina, Harvey Fierstein’s new play about husbands who identify as hetero- sexual but congregate in the Catskills to dress and act like housewives, has added two weeks of performances to its limited Broadway engagement. Directed by out two-time Tony winner Joe Mantello (Take Me Out, Wicked), Casa Michael Radi, who plays Luke Rick Apicella who plays Adam. Valentina opened April 23 at Manhattan Theatre Club’s Samuel J. Friedman The- atre. Originally scheduled to close June 15, the world premiere will now run through (B ristol from page 27) Performance times are Thursday–Satur- June 29. ery, Canandaigua Quick Print, and Lake day at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 (first week) “Back in 1962, most men went to the Catskill Mountains to escape the summer heat, Country Woodworkers. and Wednesday at 2, Thursday at 2 and 8, but others took the two-hour drive to escape something else entirely: being men,” read “The play presents many different Friday and Saturday at 8 and Sunday at 2 press notes about the drama, which is inspired by actual events. points of view,” says BVT Associate Artis- (second week). Tickets are on sale now and Casa Valentina is Fierstein’s first play on Broadway since 1987. Celebrated for his tic Director David E. Shane, “and it does prices range from $33 for adults to $12 for landmark gay drama Torch Song Trilogy and his book for La Cage aux Folles, the four- so with humor and without ever choos- children, with senior, student and group time Tony winner most recently wrote the books for the hit Broadway musicals News- ing sides. That’s a refreshing and realistic discounts available. For reservations and ies and Kinky Boots. (The later comes to Rochester in May 2015.) approach we don’t see very often.” further information, call the box office at Casa Valentina recently received four Tony nominations, including Best Play. The cast He told The Empty Closet, “BVT has 585 374-6318 or visit www.bvtnaples.org. includes Reed Birney, John Cullum, Gabriel Ebert, Lisa Emery, Tom McGowan, Patrick done other plays with gay characters, like Shane directs the play, which features a Page, Larry Pine, Nick Westrate, and Mare Winningham. last season’s boom, or Cabaret which we professional cast of six including Rick Api- A film adaptation is “under discussion,” Deadline reports. did in 2009, but to my knowledge this cella, Sara Fetgatter, Seth James, Mark Pop- For tickets and more information visit the play’s website. is the first time we’ve produced anything pleton, and Honeoye Falls native Michael where the central relationship involves two Radi. Rounding out the cast is BVT Artis- people of the same sex. That said, the rea- tic Director Karin Bowersock, who makes a son we chose this play is fairly simple: it’s a rare onstage appearance as Luke’s eccentric great script! One of the things I love about mother Arlene. The play does contain some O prah Network it is that the major conflict -- differing reli- adult content and language and is recom- postpones Michael Sam gious beliefs -- happens between the two mended for teens and adults. gay men. It’s a reminder that the gay com- “You can look at this as a play about documentary series munity isn’t of one mind, or one opinion gay rights, a play about coming out, about By Greg Hernandez on gaystarnews.com on every issue. The dividing lines are not religious differences, about flawed fami- Saying it does not want to be a dis- always drawn between gay and straight. I lies or how we cope in times of crisis,” says traction, the Oprah Winfrey Network think that’s not only compelling drama, Bowersock, “but to me it’s really about announced on May 16 that it is postpon- but also true to life, and I’m excited that how being in love can change you for the ing its plans to make a documentary series we can present that on our stage. better.” on Michael Sam becoming the first open- “We had one patron who wrote to say The Bristol Valley Theater 2014 season ly gay player in NFL history. she would not be renewing her subscrip- opens on June 12 with Oh, Coward! and Last month, Sam was drafted by the tion this year because of our continual continues through September 1 with Next St. Louis Rams in the final round of the inclusion of ‘rainbow plays’ in the lineup. Fall, Deathtrap, Les Miserables, What the draft. The decision to delay the series There have been others who have made Butler Saw and 365: A Year in Revue. came after a meeting between the Rams it clear that they won’t be in attendance, though they are coming to other shows and OWN. during the summer. I don’t agree with Women’s Chorus “After careful consideration and dis- these patrons, but I respect their decisions. presents June 7 concert cussion with the St. Louis Rams, The Untitled Michael Sam Project has been “The fact of the matter is, part of our at Harley School mission is to present ‘life affirming the- postponed, allowing Michael the best ater’. To do that, we have to present a wide Do you love show tunes? Then the opportunity to achieve his dream of mak- J ustin Vivian Bond variety of plays that show many different Rochester Women’s Community Chorus ing the team,” OWN President Erik celebrates “Happy Logan said in a statement. aspects of life. Not every show will appeal will surely delight you with an evening Tranniversary” to every patron, but we aim to present of song in their upcoming spring concert: Logan added: “OWN is about elevat- ‘something for everyone’. I truly hope and “On with the Show – Songs of Stage and ing and empowering people to achieve Justin Vivian Bond, who hails from believe that for every person who misses Screen,” Saturday, June 7 at 7:30 p.m. at their best. It’s clear that we, along with Hagerstown, Md., will celebrate two this production because they find the The Harley School (1981 Clover St. in the world, recognize the important oppor- decades living in New York City in Happy subject matter objectionable, there will Brighton). tunity that Michael now has in this Tranniversary! be other people who come out to see it This year, as an added bonus, the moment. We will continue to support him The show, featuring musical direc- because they want to see a modern play Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus will be join- in his journey to earn a spot playing for tion by Thomas Bartlett, takes place June that truthfully reflects modern life. ing RWCC for a few special numbers. the Rams.” 10 at (Le) Poisson Rouge in Manhattan’s “As with all of our productions, we After the concert, the RWCC hopes you’ll The series had been announced 14 Greenwich Village. have a talk-back after the first Sunday stick around to meet and mingle with May, with Winfrey saying the series “Join Mx Justin Vivian Bond and matinee. That’s June 29 for Next Fall. chorus members over cookies and punch. ‘”promises to spark valuable, impor- friends in celebration of 20 of the most However, we’re also hosting an event on Tickets can be purchased from any tant discussion on life in America today. exuberant years of subversive glamour and Saturday, June 28 in conjunction with chorus member or at the door: $10 for Acceptance and illumination start here.” performance this city has ever known,” The LGBTQ Center of the Finger Lakes. adults, $8 for students and seniors, $5 for Sam had said in a statement this week reads an online invitation. “Expect Discount tickets are available and include kids, infants are free. that his focus was on making the team but extreme performance, shocking guests a pre-show wine and cheese reception as For more information about this con- added “if seeing my story helps somebody and a bit of ‘gentle persuasion’ — what- well as a post-show discussion. Anyone cert or about the chorus itself (including else accept who they are and to go for ever that means!” interested in attending that event can call how to join), visit the RWCC website their dreams too, that’s great. I am thank- Bond, a self-proclaimed “trans-fab- 585-374-9032 or email dshane@bvtnaples. at http://www.therwcc.org/ or call (585) ful to Oprah for her support and excited ulous performance-activist,” earned org.” 234-4441. RWCC is on Facebook at to work together.” international acclaim as sloshed septua- Performances run from June 26–July 6 https://www.facebook.com/RochesterWo- The series was to be made for OWN genarian lounge singer Kiki Durane of at the theater at 151 S. Main St. in Naples. mensCommunityChorus by Pilgrim Studios and Amy Rice. the Tony-nominated duo Kiki & Herb. june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 29

The Shortbus star has also penned a ImageArt says, “The gender spectrum memoir, Tango: My Childhood, Backwards is experienced and played out not just as and in High Heels, and released a solo a component of our culture, but also as album, Dendrophile. the very basic element of our own sense The performer most recently appeared of identity. While this is perhaps nowhere on stage in The Drift, an original piece more evident than in the LGBT com- based on The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone, munity, even here there exist radically a 1950 novella by Tennessee Williams. different degrees of acceptance and under- For tickets and more information standing of the ways gender is expressed. on Happy Tranniversary! visit lepois- ImageArt is requesting submissions of sonrouge.com. work, in any media, that respond to or addresses the way that gender and/or gen- I mageArt calls for der identity have touched your life.” Submission deadline is Friday July, artwork submissions 11. Submissions must include submis- ImageArt, a program of ImageOut sion form, payment, artist’s statement Film Festival, has announced its 2014 and a CD/DVD of images. For sub- Call for Art. mission forms and more detailed infor- This year’s exhibition is titled Per- mation please visit: www.imageout.org/ sonal Pronouns. The exhibition will be imageart.php All artists working in any media are held at Visual Studies Workshop from ■ September 5 to October 19, 2014. welcome to submit. Travel

Kennett Square, The Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Shop is just Mushroom Capital Of around the corner from State Street. Although there was someone giving out The World tea samples to taste, it is not a place that By Merle Exit serves tea. I looked for Rooibos tea to find Pennsylvania’s Brandywine Valley has over 20 varieties. The “in” thing these a central town, Kennett Square, known as days is to combine the rooibos with other the Mushroom Capital of the World. A flavors but not “flavorings”. For instance walk about town brings you to some fab- I bought one called Carrot Cake. www. ulous boutique stores along State Street. mrsrobinsonstea.com Kennett Design – with a splash of Eco Boutique at 103 W. State Street wine. This art studio is a space for people is owned by Doug Harris, whose aim is sharing a portion of your purchase with who wish to learn how to paint. The class- the proper charity, such as with a shoe es seemed to focus on choosing a piece company called Toms, with a program of art and having an artist give you les- called “buy a shoe, give a shoe”. If you sons on how to reproduce it. The “splash purchase a product from United By Blue, of wine” aspect is that it is a byob. They for every product sold, United By Blue don’t serve wine or have a liquor license. removes one pound of trash from oceans However, you are welcome to bring in and waterways. your own wine. Where is the best place The boutique also sells a Bella Ryan to buy it? Flickerwood Wine Cellars Tast- line of bracelets that you can easily place ing Room, located just across the street, on your wrist with the other hand as you that offers a discount to those attending a can push it apart to open, slip on your class. www.kennett-design.com wrist and close. www.ecoboutiqueksq. Kathi Lafferty, known as the “mayor com of the square,” is the owner of The Mush- Philter Coffee is just a few doors room Cap, located a few doors down down, at 111 W. State Street. What makes from Flickerwood and home to “Snack N this place different is their “poured over Shrooms,” a very tasty mushroom snack coffee” manual brewing process, involv- chip. She dehydrates slices of white mush- ing a funnel system that allows water to rooms and seasons them. drip or pour over coffee slowly to extract Kathi has also assembled parapher- more flavor. Kind of a cross between a nalia and artifacts from the mushroom drip and French press. They offer four industry housing an exhibit and short of these coffees each day as well as a line video. She works in cahoots with Phillips of espresso drinks. Philter has partnered Mushroom Company GM Jim Angelucci. with Ceremony Coffee Roasters from That means you can purchase fresh mush- Maryland as the provider for the beans. rooms as well. In case you want to grow You can get sandwiches and pastries as your own shitake and oyster mushrooms, well. www.philtercoffee.com kits are available. I love the t-shirts that Portabello’s Restaurant and Flicker- say “Shitake Happens”. www.themush- wood Tasting Room will be featured in roomcap.com next month’s article. ■ 30 G ay alliance nethew emptys cflosetor • t heJ gUay NEalliance 2014 • number 479 • june 2014

Jeanne Gainsburg and BJ Scanlon go zombie. The Big Gay Prom took place MayMon 3. Tues Wed Thurs Youth FabulousSat G ay Alliance Sun Youth Program Y outh Update: O ur program empowers Picnic today’s teens to meet today’s challenges! It By Dawn Balsis provides a safe space jordan School is almost out for the to explore their identity, summer! Wondering what to do make friends, build

susan with all of that free time? I have : community, gain life the answer: Fabulous Fridays. skills, become a leader

photo Every Friday we meet at 707 E. Main St. (Open Arms MCC) and have fun! I ntern Darya Nicol to coordinate Roc from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Gay Alliance Youth Volunteer for Roc Each week is something dif- Pride volunteers for 2014 (Ages 13-20) Pride 2014 and ferent, from learning about safe Fabulous Fridays, 7-9pm, Welcome Darya Nicol! Darya joins us from the University of sex practices and healthy rela- Open Arms MCC Unmask Your True tionships, movie nights, game Rochester as an eight-week Rocxxy intern. 707 E. Main Street The Rocxxy internship is a combined program with the Susan B. nights, etc. We always have a Colors Rochester, NY 14605 Anthony Institute, focusing on feminism and leadership. good time. What better way to enjoy Darya will be a junior this fall, and she is majoring in Public On June 14 from 12 p.m.- Gay Alliance Youth Roc Pride 2014 than to be a part Health. She loves music, art, reading, astrology and talking. Darya 4 p.m., the Gay Alliance Youth Gender Identity of it? We are seeking volunteers will be co-coordinating the volunteers for Roc Pride this year. Program will be hosting a pic- to help us with the Parade, the nic at Cobb’s Hill Park. The day Support Group (Ages 13-20) Festival and the Picnic on Satur- will be filled with food, games day, July 19 and Sunday, July 20. and fun. For more information Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm Come join the fun and get please check out our Facebook Gay Alliance Library (1st a free ticket into the event that page (Facebook.com/GayAl- floor, off Prince St. lobby) you work and an official Roc lianceYouth). 875 E. Main Street Pride tee shirt! If you are already The Gay Alliance Youth Pro- a Gay Alliance volunteer you do gram will also be putting on For more information: [email protected] not need to register. You will get a youth leadership program on information on Roc Pride volun- Wednesdays from July 23 to Aug. The Gay Alliance teer opportunities automatically. 6. Youth who participate will be 875 E. Main St. 5th Floor If you have never registered rewarded with a fun field trip on as a Gay Alliance or Pride vol- Aug. 13. If you are interested in (Auditorium Theater) Rochester, NY 14605 unteer, you can do so at this more information or attending link: http://www.gayalliance. please contact Dawn Balsis at Phone: 585 244-8640 org/support/volunteer. Pride: [email protected]. We’re Full Of It!

R iding For Pride! Still time to support a Library rider! Go to www.GayAlliance.org & Archives There’s still time to donate to a rider! On June 14, 40 riders will H ours: E very Monday bike 50 miles to support the Gay Alliance. & Wednesday: 6-8pm Our goal this year is $25,000! Please consider supporting our 875 E. Main St. ,1st Floor amazing riders who support our community! Simply go to: www. (off Prince St. lobby) gayalliance.org/events/rideforpride and click on the name of a rider to Phone: 585 244-8640 donate on our secure site.

T he Gay Alliance is a non-profit agency, dedicated to cultivating a healthy, inclusive environment where Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) people are safe, thriving, and enjoying equal rights. We are a coalition of individuals and groups working to empower LGBTQ people to affirm their identities and create an atmosphere where the diversity can thrive both collectively and separately. We educate and advocate for civil rights for all and for the eradication of homophobia. The Gay Alliance, 875 East Main Street, Rochester, New York 14605 • Phone: (585) 244-8640 Fax: (585) 244-8246 Website: www.gayalliance.org E-mail: [email protected] Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 am-5 pm • Board President: David Zona Board Vice President: Jessica Muratore Executive Director: Scott Fearing Education Director: Jeanne Gainsburg Database: Kat Wiggall Youth Intern: Dawn Balsis Bookkeeper: Christopher Hennelly Office Administrator: Tristan Wright The Empty Closet: Editor: Susan Jordan E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (585) 244-9030 Graphic Designer: Jim Anderson Fax: (585) 244-8246 Advertising: (585) 244-9030 Ad Sales: Brandon W. Brooks E-mail: [email protected] june 2014 • numberG 4a79y • t hea gllay allianceiance • the e mptyne closetws for JUNE 2014 31

T he Gay Alliance Speaking Engagements, May 2014

5/5...... Two courses on prejudice and bias at SUNY Brockport 5/5...... SafeZone training at In Control Peer Education Program 5/8...... Shoulders to Stand On film and discussion at the University of Rochester 5/9...... Understanding the Challenges: LGBTQ Cultural Competence Training Thank you to everyone who helped make for providers of services to older adults by the Gay Alliance at the this year’s Big Gay Prom a success! Rochester Red Cross 5/21.....SafeZone Training at Alternatives for Battered Women 5/28.....LGBTQ 101 at Center for Dispute Settlement Volunteers: Quotes: Elizabeth Doyle “Encouraging, Educational, Personal, Awesome! The presenters really prac- John Altieri ticed what they preached. A wonderful day of learning – left feeling energized Tim Haddix (huge accomplishment for a Friday afternoon!)” “Very informative –nice blend of activity and lecture. Engaging, welcoming, Sarah Keller inclusive, funny, authentic.” Pietra Santacroce “I hate giving such glowing reviews of anything-The Wizard of Oz was too Jessica Moratore much upbeat (LOL) but seriously, this was practically perfect in every way.” Katie Sharun “I do not usually like workshops, but this one was great. It was all fantastic. Anne Wakeman The presenters were exceptional.” Lizzy McPhee Mike Pretty Bruce Gorman CD Baginski Amanda Kelley JoJo Oberholtzer David Zona Pocho Roque Tristan Wright Darrell Killingsworth Todd Ranous Pam Cornish Nick Cornish Leslie Dittmar SAGE members had fun at the Lilac Festival. Photo: Audet Price Elaine Spencer Tabitha Lauster JUNE SAGE calendar BJ Scanlon June 3 ����� 10:30am Yoga with Tom at MCC church, 11:45am-1:30pm. Kerry Meagher Meet at Crossroad’s Coffee House (752 South Goodman St., Adrianne Chesher 585-244-6787) for lunch/social gathering with Roza as your hostess. June 5 ����� 10:30am Yoga with Tom at MCC church. Sponsors & Vendors: June 10 ��� 10:30am Yoga with Tom at MCC church, 11:30am-12:30pm Cheesy Eddies Lunch. 12:30-1:30pm chatting with Reba about “Budget DJ Chuck Argento Meals”. (Please feel free to bring a budget meal in and or Hedonist Artisan Chocolates share a budget meal recipe with Rainbow SAGE.) June 12 ��� (NO YOGA) 10:30am meet at Friendly’s Breakfast on 2425 Macy’s West Henrietta Road. Movies 10 after breakfast. RSVP by Wegmans June 10. Diplomat Banquet Center June 15 ��� Happy Father’s Day from Rainbow SAGE. June 17 ��� 10:30am Yoga with Tom at MCC church, 11:45am-1:30pm Goodness Cakes Bakery Lunch at Equal=Grounds, social gathering with Jessie as Jimmy C’s Music Machine your hostess. Celebrate May and June birthdays, talk about Trillium Health Pride events and play games. Talk about Pride Poem writing MOCHA project. (Equal Grounds address is 750 South Ave., at Caro- line St., 585-256-2362) Chances and Changes June 19 ��� 10:30am Yoga with Tom at MCC church. Safe Sex, Inc. June 24 ��� 10:30am Yoga with Tom at MCC church, 11:30am-12:30pm lunch, 12:30-1:30pm, Special Guest presentation at noon to Thanks to all who helped raise money 1pm while you have lunch. Please arrive promptly for guest speaker as we will start on time. Thank you. for the Big Gay Prom: June 26 �� Yoga with Tom at MCC church. Noon-3pm Picnic at Ontario Todd Ranous • 140 Alex Bar & Grill Beach Park. Look for rainbow flag and shelter to left of bath- Peter Mohr • The Bachelor Forum room. Bring dish to pass; rain plan is MCC church. Equal Grounds Café Rainbow SAGE is for adults 50 and over. Please note time and change of address for some events. Also there is no euchre in the month of And a very special thanks June. Brown bag lunch unless it is stated otherwise. Thank you. Address to all of the FABULOUS youth who attended the for regular programming: Open Arms MCC, 707 East Main St., Roch- ester 14605. All programs are subject to change and it is the members’ Big Gay Prom and made it a wonderful responsibility to provide transportation to and from any program. Please and fun night. LIKE our Rainbow SAGE Facebook page and look for updates, great articles and program changes. 32 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

Volunteer Legal Services Project second floor. Hours 8:30-5pm, Monday-Friday. 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. at Transitions Living Services, (585) 232-3051; www.vlsprochester.org. 1 262-4330; fax 262-4572. Free anonymous 420 E. Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13202. West Main St., Suite 500 Rochester, NY HIV testing on walk-in basis, Tuesdays, Resources 14614. Free legal services for low-income HIV Wednesdays 1-4pm, provided through NYS- TRAN SGenDER positive clients. No criminal cases. Appoint- DOH. Thursdays 1-4pm at Aenon Baptist ments are scheduled at area medical provider Church, 175 Genesee St. Trans*Alliance of Greater Rochester Check our monthly and ongoing calendar locations or by calling 295-5708. Social/educational group for gender variant as well as the community section for more Anthony L. Jordan Health Center, people and friends. Last Saturday, 3-5pm, groups and events. For further information, Trillium Health Prevention and Primary Care. Open Arms MCC, 707 E. Main St. Trillium Health is the leading provider of HIV/ call the Gay Alliance at 244-8640 or visit: Provides Medical Case Management, Mental Empire Justice Center www.gayalliance.org. Gay Alliance Youth AIDS services in Rochester and the Finger Health, Primary Care, HIV Counseling and Test- Lakes. On-site services include HIV testing and Julia A. Sáenz, Esq. Hanna S. Cohn Equal Jus- Group info: pages 30-31. ing (using rapid testing) Hepatitis C rapid test- tice Fellow, Empire Justice Center, LGBT Rights limited STD screenings, Primary and HIV Spe- ing and services, Educational Presentations, cialty Medical Care, Pharmacy, and many more. Project, Telesca Center for Justice, 1 West and access to other Jordan Services. Preven- Main Street, Suite 200, Rochester, NY 14614. BI SEXUality Satellite offices in Geneva and Bath. Trillium tion and Primary Care is a walk-in program; no Health is also a leader in providing services and (585) 295-5721 Fax (585) 454-2518, appointment necessary. Office Hours are Mon- [email protected], www.empirejustice.org. resources education to members of the LGBT community. day thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more AMBI Los Angeles; American Institute of Bisex- Contact Information: Website: www.trillium- information call (585) 423-2872; fax (585) Volunteer Legal Services Project uality (Journal of Bisexuality); Bay Area Bisexual healthny.org. Main Office: 259 Monroe Ave., 423-2876. Website www.jordanhealth.org. For (585) 232-3051; www.vlsprochester.org.1 Network; Bi Café; Bi Definition: Milwaukee; Rochester, NY 14607; Main Phone: 585-545- more information, call the Program Manager West Main St. Suite 500, Rochester, NY BiNet USA; Bisexual Organizing Project (BOP); 7200, Health Services After Hours: 585-258- Charlie Lytle,(585) 423-2872. 14614. Free legal services for low-income cli- Biversity Boston; Boston Bisexual Women’s 3363; Case Management After Hours (Lifeline): ents seeking a name change. Other legal ser- Network; ComBIne - Columbus, Ohio; Dallas/ 585-275-5151; Fax: 585-244-6456. Finger CDC National STD and AIDS Hotline vices for low-income clients include family law Fort Worth Bi Net; Fenway Health’s Bi Health Lakes Office: 605 W. Washington St., Geneva, 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) 24 hours a issues, bankruptcy, unemployment insurance Program; Los Angeles Bi Task Force; New York NY 14456, 315-781-6303. Southern Tier day. TTY service: 1-888-232-6348. E-mail hearings, wills and advance directive docu- Area Bisexual Network; Robyn Ochs’s site; Office: 122 Liberty St. Box 624, Bath, NY address: [email protected]. ments for clients with serious illnesses. Seattle Bisexual Women’s Network; The Bi 14810 607-776-9166. The Health Outreach Fair Housing Enforcement Project Gay Alliance Youth Gender Identity Writers Association; The Bisexual Resource Project: 416 Central Ave., Rochester, NY of Monroe County Support Group Center (email [email protected]) 14605; 585-454-5556. 585-325-2500; 1-800-669-9777. Deals with Thursdays 5:30-6:30 GAGV Library, 1st floor, Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley housing discrimination on basis of race, orien- off Prince St. lobby 875 E. Main St., Ages CULTURAL Referrals to physicians and service agencies. tation, HIV status, etc. 13-18. 244-8640 Rochester Women’s Community Chorus (585) 244-8640; www.gayalliance.org. Public Interest Law Office of Rochester Genesee Valley Gender Variants 234-4441. (See Ongoing calendar). 80 St. Paul St., Suite 701. Free legal services Thurs. 7-9pm, Equal Grounds, 750 South Ave. Victory Alliance [email protected] University of Rochester Medical Center. One of to HIV positive persons, families. Spanish bilin- Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus gual advocates available. All civil cases except www.thergmc.org several research sites worldwide that comprise Guys Night Out the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Rochester site divorce; no criminal cases. Ask to speak to Social group for transmen. Third Saturdays, conducts research vaccine studies sponsored someone in PILOR. 454-4060. 1pm, Equal Grounds, 750 South Ave. tguys- dreaf se vices by National Institutes of Health (NIH). 585-756- Evergreen Health Services, Buffalo [email protected] Advocacy for Abused Deaf Victims 2329; www.vaccineunit.org. Primary care, HIV and family care, HIV testing Mailing address: c/o ASADV, P.O. Box 20023, and counseling. (716) 847-0328 Women Rochester, NY 14602. 24-Hour Hotline: ASAD- Threshold [email protected]; VP: 866-936-8976; TTY/ At The Community Place, 145 Parsells Ave., Westside Health Services l esbians of color FAX : 585-232-2854. third floor, 585-454-7530. Provides confiden- Brown Square Health Center, 175 Lyell Ave. www.oursistacircle.com. tial HIV, STD testing and General Health Care, (254-6480); Woodward health Center, 480 The first social networking site for lesbians of Lilac Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf ages 12-25. Sliding fee scale, no one denied, Genesee St. (436-3040). HIV/AIDS services, Black, Asian, African American, Latina, Native (LRAD) most insurances accepted. Mon., Wed., Fri. support, more. American, Pacific Islander, Chicano, Biracial & Meets second Saturdays, 6-9pm. For location, 9am-5pm; Tues., Thurs., 9am-7pm; Sat. other lesbians of color, launched 2009. OurSis- information: [email protected] 10am-2pm. www.ThresholdCenter.org McCree McCuller Wellness Center at taCircle the first free social networking site to Unity Health’s Connection Clinic offer Skype mental health counseling. No nudity Spectrum LGBTIQ & Straight Alliance Center for Health and Behavioral Training (585) 368-3200, 89 Genesee St., Bishop RIT/NTID student group.

Trans*Alliance of Greater Rochester Social/educational group for gender-variant people, friends. Last Saturdays, 3-5:30pm, R ochester Ongoing Calendar GAGV fifth floor, 875 E. Main St. AA/NA Meetings Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Every week there are four regularly COAP 9am, George Eastman House parking lot.www. scheduled GLBTI AA and two inclusive Mny o da s Come Out and Play. Wednesday game nights. rochesterfrontrunners.org. NA meetings in Rochester. L.O.R.A. Coffee Social 8-11 pm. Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. Empire Bears Potluck Weekly on Monday Nights, 7 pm. Equal=Grounds, 7pm, [email protected]. 2nd Saturdays, GAGV, 875 E. Main, 5th floor, 750 South Ave. Rochester. Family, Friends & Rochester Rams General Meeting 6:30pm greet; 7pm dinner. Bring dish to pass. Allies Welcome! Contact Person: Cathie Timian. 2nd Wednesdays, 7:30pm, Bachelor Forum, www.empirebears.org. Tedu s ays More info: www.loragroup.org. Events: https:// 670 University Ave. www.rochesterrams.com Narcotics Anonymous Cross Dresser Support Group 6-7:30pm. AIDS and Recovery 1124 Culver Road www.facebook.com/groups/L.O.R.A.14464/. HIV+ Mixed Men’s Group First Saturdays, 6-9pm, call for location: Email: [email protected] (Covenant United Methodist Church) This is an NA Wednesdays, 11:30 am-12:30 pm. 251-2132; [email protected] meeting that is open to all addicts who have a LORA Late Bloomers Coming Out Group Trillium Health, 259 Monroe Ave. Guys Night Out desire to stop using. Although it is not specifically a gay-oriented meeting, it is welcoming to people for Women Frontrunners/Frontwalkers GNO, social group for transmen, now meets on 2nd & 4th Mondays of the Month. 7 pm, Pri- the second Saturday of the month, @ 1pm @ of all sexual orientations and gender identities, as 6pm, Eastman House parking lot. well as to anyone who is affected by HIV and AIDS. vate Location. Call for info! Contact Person: www.rochesterfrontrunners.org. Equal Grounds, 750 South Ave. Wanda Martinez. Email: sanlorenzena@yahoo. com. Phone: 585.414.9164. More info: www. Gay Alliance Library & Archives, Saturday Night Special Gay AA Weed dn s ays David Bohnett Cyber Center. Every Mon./Wed. 7pm, Unitarian Church, 220 Winton Rd., S. loragroup.org. Events: https://www.facebook. Men and women. Open meeting. New Freedom/New Happiness Group com/groups/L.O.R.A.14464/ 6-8pm. First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640 7pm. First Unitarian Church, 220 S. Winton Rd. Lilac Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf (LRAD) Bus riders: Take the last #18 University bus to 12 Gay Alliance Library & Archives, Empire Bears 2nd Saturdays, 6-9pm. [email protected] David Bohnett Cyber Center. Every Mon./Wed. Every Wednesday. 6pm dinner at The Win- Corners. Use the stop just past the top of the hill at 6-8pm. First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640 tonaire. www.empirebears.com Sophia’s Supper Club Hillside Ave. and before Highland Ave. Or take the First and third Saturdays. http://www.inspiritu- #1 Park Ave. to the corner of East and Winton, Born That Way al.biz/online-spiritual-evolution-gro/ then walk five minutes south (uphill) on Winton. Formerly 3rd Presbyterian LGBT Support Group. T dhurs ays This is an open discussion meeting. All issues – as First, 3rd Mondays, 7:30-9:30pm, 34 Meigs St. they relate to our alcoholism/addiction and recov- Presbyterians for Lesbian and Gay ery – are fair game. Carol, 482-3832 or Kaara, 654-7516. Concerns Suny da s Free syphilis testing 6:30pm, first Thursday. Ralph, 271-7649 Parents Families & Friends of Lesbians Trillium Health, 259 Monroe Ave., 5-8pm. 442- And Gays (PFLAG) Fi r days Gay Alliance Youth Gender Identity For location: 244-8460; [email protected]. 2220. Support Group Gay Men’s Rochester General Assembly 7:30pm. Immanuel Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. Rochester Historical Bowling Society Thursdays, 5:30-6:30, GAGV Library, 1st floor, off Prince St. lobby. 875 E. Main St. Ages Sundays, Flying Squirrel Community Center, • Closed meeting, restricted to alcoholics and 7:15pm, Mondays. Clover Lanes, 285 Clarissa St. addicts 2750 Monroe Ave. (Group is full.) 13-18. 244-8640. • Men’s meeting Pride at Work Unity Fellowship Church • Handicapped accessible HIV Positive Men’s Support group First Thursdays, 5:30pm. 1354 Buffalo Road, Sundays, 1:30 pm, Lutheran Church of Peace, This is a round-robin discussion meeting. If you are Every Monday, 5pm, Trillium Health Center for Rochester 14624, 426-0862. 125 Caroline St., 14620. 520-6188. shy about meeting people or speaking up in a Positive Living, 259 Monroe Ave. group, you will find this meeting particularly warm GLOB&L (Gays & Lesbians of Bausch & Dignity-Integrity and inviting because everyone gets their turn to Frontrunners/Frontwalkers 1st Sunday: 5pm Episcopal Eucharist with speak (or pass). As a result, this meeting often Lomb). music; 2nd Sunday: 5pm Roman Catholic Litur- Mondays, 6pm, George Eastman House park- Meets every third Thursday in Area 67 confer- runs long, so plan on more than the usual hour. ing lot. www.rochesterfrontrunners.org. gy of the Word with music; 3rd Sunday: 5pm ence room at the Optic Center. Voice mail: Episcopal Eucharist (quiet); 4th Sunday: 5pm Steps Beyond Stems 338-8977 Prayers to start the week, followed by potluck Satury da s Crack Support Group, Mondays, 7-8pm, Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus supper. Saturday Night Special 289 Monroe Ave. Downtown United Presbyterian Church, Open Arms Metropolitan Community 7pm. First Unitarian Church, 220 S. Winton Rd. 121 N. Fitzhugh St. 6:30-9pm, 423-0650 Church Bus riders: The #18 University Ave. bus does not Tedyu s a s Free confidential walk-in HIV testing 707 E. Main St. Rochester, 10:30am, 271-8478 go by the church on weekend evenings. Take the The Social Grind Every Thursday night, 5-8pm, Trillium Health, Gay Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous #1 Park Ave. bus to the corner of East and Winton, 10am-12noon and again 7:30-9pm at Equal 259 Monroe Ave. 442-2220 St. Luke’s/St. Simon Cyrene Church, then walk five minutes south (uphill) on Winton. Grounds, 750 South Ave. Email: DHutch457@ 17 S. Fitzhugh St. 8pm, 232-6720, Weekly. • Open meeting, all are welcome, “straight- Out & Equal Second Thursdays friendly” aol.com for information Social/business networking, 5:30-7:30pm. Closed meeting • Mixed men and women Coffee Chat and Game Night Changing venues. E-mail: fingerlakes@outand- Men’s Cooking Group • Handicapped accessible, take elevator to Catch up with the week’s happenings and enjoy equal.org Third or fourth Sundays, 355-7664. basement some games and good conversations! 6:30pm Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by open Genesee Valley Gender Variants LORA Sunday Brunch discussion. -8:00pm Equal Grounds 750 South Ave. Spon- 7-9pm, Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. GV 1st & 3rd Sunday of the Month, 11:30am - sored by Open Arms MCC & Community Center. [email protected] 1:30pm. Jays Diner, 2612 W. Henrietta Rd., 271-8478 Rochester. Contact Person: Cathie Timian. Suny da s LORA - Buffalo Women’s Coffee Social More info: www.loragroup.org. Events: https:// Step in the Right Direction LGBT Healthy Living Weekly on Thursday Nights, 6pm. Spot Coffee, www.facebook.com/groups/L.O.R.A.14464/. Veterans support. Second, fourth Tuesdays, 7:30-9pm. 1275 Spencerport Road (Trinity Alli- 765 Elmwood, Buffalo. Contact Person: Barb Email: [email protected] ance Church) This is an NA meeting that is open to 10-11am Canandaigua VA, bldg. 9, room 8, Library Henderson Email: Morningstar5588@yahoo. Gutter Gals - Bowling all addicts who have a desire to stop using. conference room. 585 463-2731, 585 205-3360. com More Info: www.loragroup.org. Events: Although it is not specifically a gay-oriented meet- https://www.facebook.com/groups/buffaloles/ 2nd & 4th Sundays, 6:30pm - 9:30pm. Bowl A Women’s Community Chorus ing, it is welcoming to people of all sexual orienta- Roll, 1560 Jefferson Rd. $5.70 for 2 games & tions and gender identities. Each week features a Rehearsals each Tuesday, 6:30-9pm, Down- $2.50 for shoes. For more info: http://www. reading from NA literature, followed by discussion. town United Pres. Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh FRIs DAY facebook.com/groups/guttergals/Contact Person: Street. 234-4441, www.therwcc.org Gay Men's AA meeting Cathie: Email: [email protected]; Phone: Rochester Gay Men Fridays, 7:30-8:30pm, Closed meeting. 585.313.3037 8pm. St. Luke/St. Simon’s Episcopal Church, Free HIV Testing 17 S. Fitzhugh Street. Bus riders use the Fitzhugh 9am-7pm. Trillium Health, 259 Monroe Ave. Emmanuel Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. Street stop on Main Street at the County Office LORA Knitters Group Gay Alliance Youth T he Gay Alliance On-Line Building and walk south one block. 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of the Month. 7pm-9:30pm, Fridays, 7-9pm, Open Arms MCC, • Closed meeting, restricted to alcoholics and Crossroads Coffee House, 752 S. Goodman St. 707 E. Main St., 244-8640 Resource Directory (GARD) addicts Rochester. Contact Person: Kerry Cater Email: • Men’s meeting GLBTQI Motorcycle Group The online community tool providing local, • NOT handicapped accessible [email protected]. More Info: www.lor- Second Fridays, 5:30pm, Various locations. agroup.org Events: https://www.facebook.com/ statewide and national resources, 24/7 at: Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by open [email protected]; 467- www.GayAlliance.org discussion. groups/L.O.R.A.14464/ 6456; [email protected]. LORA GaYmes Night Wee dn sdays Meets 4th Friday of the Month, 7-10pm, Equal Identity Group Grounds Coffee House, 750 South Ave. Roch- The Identity Group is for LGBT identified indi- ester. Contact Person: Christine O’Reilly. Email: viduals who have a developmental disability [email protected]. Phone: diagnosis. The group meets Wednesdays 3-4 585.943.1320. More Info: www.loragroup.org. Events: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ pm at ARC Health Services (2060 Brighton- L.O.R.A.14464/ Henrietta Townline Rd. 14623). The goal of the group is to provide a safe space to discuss identity issues, share personal experiences and S AturDAyS increase self-esteem. The group is facilitated Rochester Rams Bar Night by Delaina Fico. LMSW. For more information, Third Saturdays, 8pm-2am, Bachelor Forum, please contact Delaina Fico at dfico@arcmon- 670 University Ave. 271-6930 roe.org or 585-271-0661 ext. 1552. LGBT Family Pride Rochester Gay Alliance Board of Directors Meets 2nd Saturday of the Month. 1-3 pm. Meets Third Wednesdays, 6pm, Crossroads Coffee House, 752 S. Goodman St. 875 E. Main St. 244-8640 Rochester. Contact Person: Christine O’Reilly. New Freedom New Happiness Email: [email protected]. AA Gay meeting, 7pm, Unitarian Church, Phone: 585.943.1320. More info: www.lor- 220 Winton Rd. Men and women. Open. agroup.org. Events: https://www.facebook. com/groups/L.O.R.A.14464/ Support Group for Parents who have lost Children Rochesternygrrlz. First, 3rd Wednesdays, 11am-12:30pm, Cross dressers social/support group. 4-6 Third Presbyterian Church, 4 Meigs St. Gene- pm, third Saturdays, at Gay Alliance, 875 E. see Region Home Care. Free. 325-1880 Main St., fifth floor. https://groups.yahoo. com/group/rochesternygrrls/ 34 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014

MONDAY 23 June “The New Black.” Screening of film at The Little, 7 pm. Panel and group dis- cussion afterwards. WXXI’s Community SNYU DA 1 SNYU DA 8 FRI0 DAY 2 Cinema series. Free. Dignity Integrity. Episcopal Mass/ Rev. Steven Price installation as pas- Summer solstice TUED S AY 24 Healing Service, with music. 5 pm at tor at Community Christian Church, World Pride Toronto. Global event “Tying the Knot.” Film by Jim de St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. 2647 Chili Ave. 3 pm. featuring concerts, art, Parade, human Seve on third anniversary of NYS mar- Fitzhugh St. Hotline at 585-234-5092; Dignity Integrity. Roman Catholic rights conference, much more. Through riage equality; 10th anniversary of Massa- website at www.di-rochester.org/ Liturgy of the Word, with music. 5 pm June 29. WP14TO.com / facebook.com/ chusetts marriage. Open Arms MCC, 707 Buffalo Pride Parade, Steps off 1 pm, at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 WP14TO / twitter.com/WP14TO E. Main St., 7 pm. Elmwood and Forest Ave., south on Elm- S. Fitzhugh St. Hotline at 585-234-5092; S YATurDA 21 NYC Pride events. Through June 29. wood to Allen St. Festival at Canalside. website at www.di-rochester.org/ LORA Third Annual Dyke Picnic THURD S AY 26 www.BuffaloPrideFestival.com THURD S AY 12 and Women’s Festival. Noon-8:30 pm, Bristol Valley Playhouse opening of TUED S AY 3 Out & Equal Second Thursdays Roundhouse Shelter, Genesee Valley Park. “Next Fall”. Runs through July 6. 151 Shoulders To Stand On documen- Networking. 5:30-8:30 pm, Constel- Potluck – bring a dish to pass. Hot dogs, S. Main St. in Naples. Thursday–Satur- tary. 8 pm, WXXI. lation Brands, 207 High Point Drive, hamburgers by Hoggin It BBQ for sale. day at 8 pm and Sunday at 2 (first week); THURD S AY 5 Building 100, Victor. Open bar, BBQ. Free admission. Live music, drag kings, Wednesday at 2, Thursday at 2 and 8, Friday, Saturday at 8, Sunday at 2 (second “Just Gender.” Rochester premiere of Raffle to benefit Gay Alliance. vendors, Reiki healers, Tarot readers, belly FRIY DA 13 dancers, raffles and more. www.dykepic- week). Tickets $33 for adults to $12 for film on trans issues, 7 pm, Little Theatre. children; senior, student and group dis- Producer/director George Zuber will be Empty Closet deadline for July issue. nic.org ROMANS at Empire Haven Nud- counts available. For reservations, infor- present. Sponsored by Excellus, Gay Alli- 244-9030; [email protected]. mation, call box office at 585 374-6318 or ance, T*AGR. ist Park, Moravia; members discounted S YATurDA 14 entrance fee, noon-5 pm. visit www.bvtnaples.org. FRIDAY 6 Ride for Pride. Rainbow SAGE picnic. Ontario Ambush. Women’s social event, 5:30- Syracuse Pride Parade. SNYU DA 22 Dignity Integrity. beach park, Noon-3pm. Look for rain- 10 pm, Captain’s Attic, 37 Charlotte St. Gay Alliance Youth Picnic, noon- Evening Prayer, bow flag. Bring dish to pass. followed by potluck dinner – “Summer S YATurDA 7 4 pm, Cobb’s Hill Park. Facebook.com/ FRI7 DAY 2 GayAllianceYouth. Salads.” 5 pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Rochester Women’s Community Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. Hotline at Dignity Integrity Garage Sale. Pen- Chorus concert, “On With the Show: SNYU DA 15 585-234-5092; website at www.di-roch- field, through June 29. Address, times on Songs of Stage and Screen.” 7:30 pm Dignity Integrity. Episcopal Mass. 5 ester.org/ Craigslist. at The Harley School (1981 Clover St. pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, in Brighton). Tickets can be purchased 17 S. Fitzhugh St. Hotline at 585-234- from chorus members or at door: $10 for 5092; website at www.di-rochester.org/ adults, $8 for students and seniors, $5 Noah Wagoner, Gay Alliance Speak- for kids, infants are free. RWCC website ers Bureau Member, will be speaking at Glenn Zermeño, LCSW at http://www.therwcc.org/ or call (585) the TEDx Flour City at Kilbourne Hall Individual, Couple & Group Psychotherapy 234-4441. Facebook at https://www.face- at the Eastman School of Music. Free to book.com/RochesterWomensCommuni- attend: apply at this link: http://tedxflour- LGBTQ Concerns, Youth & Adolescents, tyChorus city.com/?q=event/tedxflourcity-2014 HIV/AIDS, Relationships, Dealing with Conflict, Effective Communication, Anxiety, Depression, Body Image, Self-Esteem 25 Canterbury Road, Suite 311 • Rochester, New York 14607 Phone: 917-309-7508 • Email: [email protected] Classifieds Classified ads are $5 for the first 30 words; each additional 10 words is another $1. We do not bill for classifieds, so please send or bring ad and payment to: The Empty Closet, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Rochester, New York 14605. Paying by check: checks must be made out to Gay Alliance. The deadline is the 15th of the month, for the following month’s issue. We cannot accept ads over the phone. Pay when you place your ad. We will accept only ads accompanied by name and phone number. Nei- ther will be published, but we must be able to confirm placement. The Empty Closet is not responsible for financial loss or physical injury that may result from any contact with an advertiser. Advertisers must use their own box number, voice mail, e-mail or personal address/phone number.

ANNOUNCEMENTS Handyman: Simple repairs or full Children’s Ministry renovations, no job is too large or small. thriving at Open Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrical, Interi- Arms Metropolitan Community Church or & Exterior. 35 years experience. Call for toddlers to ‘tweens. Join us for vibrant, Alan & Bill 585-204-0632 or cell 304- inclusive, progressive worship on Sundays 517-6832. at 10:30am. 740 Marshall Road off Chili Martin Ippolito master electrician. Avenue. [email protected] (585) Electrical work, telephone jacks, cable 271-8478 TV, burglar alarm systems, paddle fans. SR E VIceS 585-266-6337. Rochester’s Best Man to Man Hate to paint or clean gutters? I have Rubdown. Unwind with this degreed, tall ladders! Dale’s Pleasure Painting and employed, fit, friendly, healthy, Italian Gutter Cleaning has very reasonable rates GWM. Middle aged, 5’8”, 165 lbs., 32” for painting year round and gutter clean- waist, nonsmoker, d & d free, HIV nega- ing in spring or fall. 585-576-5042. Email tive. My 10-plus years experience guar- [email protected]. antees your relaxation and satisfaction. FOR SAle Hotel visit, in call in my home or out call Pool table for sale: 8x4’, slate top, all in your residence. Reasonable rates. Dis- accessories, 7 cues, over table light. $250 cretion appreciated and practiced. Don’t or BO. Treadmill, digital $100 or BO. delay, call me today at 585-773-2410 (cell) 585.544.2633 or 585-235-6688 (home) or e-mail me at: [email protected]. Wedding Space and clergy services available. Celebrate your special day at Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church 740 Marshall Rd. off Chili Ave. [email protected] (585) 271-8478 june 2014 • number 479 • the gay alliance • the empty closet 35

The Empty Closet is published by the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500 Bed & Breakfast Rochester, New York 14605 © 2014, All rights reserved. Editor-in-Chief: Susan Jordan Staff Reporter: Ove Overmyer Graphic Design: Jim Anderson Ad Sales: Brandon Brooks ([email protected] Advertising policy: The Empty Closet does not print advertisements that contain nude drawings or photographs, nor does it print advertising that states that the person pictured in the ad is for sale, or that you will “get” that particular person if you patronize the establishment advertised. Advertisements that are explicitly racist, sexist, ageist, ableist or homo- phobic will be refused; advertisements from organizations that are sexist, racist, ageist, ableist or anti-gay will also be refused. All political advertisements must contain infor- mation about who placed them and a method of contact. Additionally, The Empty Closet does not print negative or “attack” advertisements, whether they relate to a product or politics and no matter in whose interest the ad is being produced. A negative advertisement is defined as one that focuses upon a rival product, or in the political area, a rival election candidate or party, in order to point out sup- posed flaws and to persuade the public not to buy it (or vote for him or her). The Empty Closet maintains, within legal boundaries, neutrality regarding products, political candidates and parties. However, “attack” ads that fail to provide undisputable evidence that the information in the ad is true do not further in any way the objectives and policies of the Gay Alliance or The Empty Closet, includ- ing the primary tenet that The Empty Closet’s purpose is to inform the Rochester gay community and to provide an impartial forum for ideas. Submissions: For publication, submit news items, ads, photos, letters, stories, poetry, ads, photographs or art by mail or in per- son to The Empty Closet office by the 15th of the month. Design services for non-camera ready ads are available for a fee. 244-9030, [email protected] Publication Information: The Empty Closet is published 11 times a year (Decem- ber and January combined) by The Empty Closet Press for the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley, Inc. Approxi- mately 5000 copies of each issue are distributed during the first week of the month, some by mail in a plain sealed envelope. The publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles is not an indication of the sexual or affectional orientation of that person or the members of that organization. For further informa- tion, please write to The Empty Closet, 875 E. Main St., Rochester NY. 14605, call (585) 244-9030 or e-mail emp- [email protected]. The Empty Closet is the official publication of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley, Inc., as stated in the bylaws of that organization. Its purpose is to inform the Rochester gay community about local and national gay- related news and events; to provide a forum for ideas and creative work from the local gay community; to help pro- mote leadership within the community, and to be a part of a national network of lesbian and gay publications that exchange ideas and seek to educate. Part of our purpose is to maintain a middle position with respect to the entire community. We must be careful to present all viewpoints in a way that takes into consid- eration the views of all – women, men, people of color, young and old, and those from various walks of life. The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other contributing writers are their own and do not necessar- ily reflect the collective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. The Empty Closet shall not be liable for any loss or expense that results from the publication (whether correctly or incorrectly) or omission of an ad. In the event of non-payment, your account may be assigned to a collection agency or an attorney, and will be liable for the charges paid by us to such collection agency or attorney. Letters to the editor: The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other con- tributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. We will print letters at the edi- tor’s discretion and on a space available basis. Only one letter by the same writer in a six-month period is allowed. We will not print personal attacks on individuals, nor will we be a forum for ongoing disputes between individuals. We reserve the right to edit for space and clarity. We will print anonymous letters if the name and phone number are provided to the Editor; confidentiality will be respected. Submissions are due by the 15th of the month at: The Empty Closet, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Rochester, NY 14605; e-mail: [email protected]. The online edi- tion of EC is available at www.gayalliance.org. 36 the empty closet • the gay alliance • number 479 • june 2014