Michigan Pride 2009 See the Complete Schedule of Festivities on Page 3!

Lansing’s LGBT Connection!

Lansing Association for Human Rights June 2009 • Volume 30 • Issue 8 Michigan Pride 2009 See the complete schedule of festivities on page 3!

from junior high school and looking for equal rights in the United States. Happy 40th Birthday, forward to attending Arthur Hill High Among them were: Stonewall Rebellion School as a sophomore. I had no idea that ·Henry Gerber, who founded the first by Nancy English, what was happening in Greenwich Village organized, American gay rights group, LAHR Board in New York City from June 28th through The Society for Human Rights, on I can’t remember July 3rd in 1969 would have such an December 24, 1924 in Illinois. He was what I was doing impact on my, and so many others, life. also the publisher of the first U.S. gay the night of June 28, The Stonewall Rebellion is well known magazine, Friendship and Freedom. Both 1969 – I was just 14 as the birth of gay liberation but there the organization and magazine lasted years old then having were gay men, lesbians and cross-dressers only a few months as the Chicago police recently graduated before Stonewall who worked very hard (continued on page 6)

building strong lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities in the lansing area Letter from the Prez by Penny Gardner, LAHR President Month of pride.... organizations in Michigan, celebrating what to be prideful our 30th year this August. of... our resilience, We would love to have you celebrate our uniqueness, it with us as a new or returning member. our creativity, There is a membership form in this our strength and publication. Because I am writing this joy. Of course in May and we have yet to march in this is a narrow, Lansing’s sesquicentennial parade on somewhat romanticized view, and it May 16th, I can’t comment on the actual is where I am just now. I write this event, but I can say how excited we at The following people will be from San Francisco where I am with LAHR are at the interest in this event celebrating their Long Term my daughter who graduates from the that has been generated and produced California College of Art this weekend. by LAHR and Suits and the City. More Relationships (LTR): Why wouldn’t I be proud? Also I am than 40 groups, organizations, churches proud to be the lesbian that I am as she are registered with us, marching united Gress Waggoner & introduces me pridefully as her mom. behind our banner of LGBT equality. I Matthew Carter It’s not every 47 year old who graduates hope you are one who marched with us, June 14th from art school! if not that, then I hope you are someone Goddess knows where I am going who attended the parade and witnessed 7 years! with this letter to you. It is more a this exhibition of our pride and strength letter from a friend than a letter from of citizenship in Lansing. Are we Helen & Georgia Carpenter the Pres....so back to pride month. something or what? Speaking of Resilience, Michigan Pride So thanks for reading this far, it is April 12th, Belated is June 13th of this month and you may time to go across the bay to see my 11 years! be reading this newsletter for the first daughter’s exhibit at a gallery in San time, having picked it up at the LAHR Rapheal. Speaking of Pride! Congratulations! table. Welcome. After pursuing this fine newsletter, published for many Sincerely, The LAHR Long Term Relationship (LTR) group wants to promote the importance of a strong, committed years by LAHR and Bill Beachler, relationship in the LGBT community. If you have an I hope you consider joining LAHR. anniversary for your relationship that you would like Penny mentioned by the group, please email Greg at MILatino@ We are one of the oldest local LGBT aol.com .

LAHR • Email: [email protected] • On the Web: www.LAHROnline.org 643-0956 or [email protected] Website------LGBT News Joseph Marutiak, Treasurer Melissa Cogswell Lansing Association for 485-6697 or [email protected] 599-7061 or [email protected] Human Rights Nancy VanHoozier, Secretary Story Contributers------P.O. Box 6565 484-6704 or [email protected] Nancy English: variety - [email protected] East Lansing, MI 48826 Members At-Large------Pam Sisson: A Matter of Law - 484-4300 Bill Beachler: LGBT News Publisher Bill Beachler - 337-1419 or [email protected] Jacob A. Distel, Jr.: Positively Speaking - [email protected] 337-1419 or [email protected] Jillian Pastoor - 614-8466/[email protected] Pastor Paul S. Downie: 332-2326/[email protected] Layout Editor: [email protected] Nancy English - 482-2668 or [email protected] Mary Boudreau: Our Families - [email protected] LAHR Board of Directors------Lisa Haston - [email protected] Bill Castellani: Our Washington/HRC Connection - [email protected] Penny Gardner, President Mike Carlson - 332-0167 ext. 43/[email protected] Brian Winters: Smart Money - [email protected] 484-4512 or [email protected] Kirk Taskila, Paul Levandowski, Judy Bohms, Brian Cindy Redman, Vice President Winters, Phil Bachinski, Pam Allen Contents of the LGBT News should not be construed to represent the beliefs of the LAHR organization as a whole. Lansing Association for Human Rights - GLBT News Michigan Pride Schedule June 12, 2009 ÜPride Kick off 1st Annual White Party in Old Town 9:00pm - 2am This is a 4 venue party: Bars include Grand Cafe, The Chrome Cat, Spiral, Esquire $10 at the door for a White Band. The band will get you in any of those locations. June 13, 2009 ÜFestival at Adado Park - Gates open at 11am Feloni ÜMarch begins at 12 noon - Michigan Pride parade 2 PM could come down Grand from Riverfront Park, head west on Shiawassee, then south on Washington or Capitol to Michigan ÜImmediately following Rally & Commitment Ceremony at the Capitol ´Mainstage Entertainment 1pm-7pm ´Live radio station remote at mainstage ´Drag Queen/King Races ´Beer Tent including VIP area ´Vendor area Barbara Payton ´Family Area Perry Twins 4 PM ´Pet Area 2:30 PM ÜAfter Party Pride Parties Óld Town Bars 6:30pm - 2am Ćhrome Cat – Live Music and DJ ´Grand Café – National DJ ´Spiral - DJ Ésquire ÜDiversity Festival -11:00 am to 7 pm Adado Park, N. Grand River Avenue, Lansing, Michigan ´$5 Admission ´Party - shop - relax - Jamm Énjoy a huge variety of booths ´Grab lunch on the riverbank ´Sit stageside in the Open Air Bar ´Visit the Youth Area ´Stop by the Pet Pampering Parlor Kung Fu Diesel ´Take the kids to the Moonwalk 5 PM Doggy Day Care/Pet Pampering Provided by:

ÜEntertainment Schedule 6 PM 6 Aaron Carl Aaron

Barefoot Grin 1 PM June 14, 2009 ´After Pride Brunch and Tea Dance @ Chrome Cat ´Tea Dance & Fashion Drag Show @ Spiral - 3pm - close - Fashion show 6pm - Live DJ

June 2009 Our Washington & HRC Connection critical work of making sure we enact the But events have caught a tailwind and Hate Crimes legislation named to honor the memory of the fight for marriage is on! & Marriage Matthew Shepard, who was brutally beaten We should all be cheered by Marriage in by Bill Castellani and left to die more than a decade ago. Iowa conferred unanimously by the Courts Soon, we expect Two weeks ago, HRC launched a website and by Marriage in Vermont, conferred the House to begin to arm Americans with both facts and the by the legislature. And Washington DC consideration of the ability to act on behalf of the Matthew decided to recognize marriages from other Local Law Enforcement Shepard Act. FightHateNow.org will states. Add those states to Connecticut and Hate Crimes Prevention Act (LLEHCPA), provide the latest status reports and action Massachuettes to round out the current Big also known as the Matthew Shepard Act, plans. Four. And perhaps New York, New Jersey, right away. I encourage you to visit FightHateNow. New Hampshire will follow. Getting this bill to the President’s desk org regularly and take action, action Still, a backlash has begun. HRC will will be a battle, and it’s a battle we cannot that will be necessary to get a bill to fight for you in these battles. If you will afford to lose. President Obama’s desk. This is just the support them. Many of you have already started the beginning. There is a lot ahead of us, from work we’ll need to do to win. During the an inclusive ENDA to repealing “Don’t two weeks that members of Congress were Ask, Don’t Tell.” But it all starts with hate in their home districts, HRC members and crimes. Subscribe to supporters reached out to their elected Marriage representatives and advocated for passage In some ways, HRC has been reluctant GLBT News of this overdue legislation. From Oregon to take on the marriage fight early on, since to Iowa to Florida, there have been critical, they preferred to keep other agenda items and receive a in-district lobby visits. Those one-on-one first. Those earlier items include the GLBT conversations made a real difference. Hate Crimes legislation, repeal of Don’t FREE T-Shirt! Now, we need to keep that momentum Ask, Don’t Tell, and the Employment Non- going, and rededicate ourselves to the Discrimination Act (ENDA).

Lansing Association for Human Rights - GLBT News Many of the people in attendance at the 12th Annual Euchre tournament

of the above bars and seeing Frank playing Lansing Food Bank and Lansing Meals Frank Bigger Euchre his favorite game of euchre. on Wheels. Over the past twelve years Charity Event The recent event held at the Esquire the event has raised approximately $4,375 by Bill Beachler, Publisher Club was another big success. The food and the following charities, in addition The 12th Annual Frank Bigger Euchre was great as always, the euchre tournament to the above, have benefited: MSU Pride Tournament / Potluck / Charity Event was exciting, and the fundraising was Scholarship Fund, the Lansing Area AIDS was held at the Esquire Club on Saturday, successful. For several weeks prior to Network, Michigan Pride, American May 2, 2009. This annual event is held in the event, the Tuesday night euchre group Cancer Society, Juvenile Diabetes memory of Frank Bigger, who as manager collected 25 cents per person per “set,” Foundation, Children’s AIDS Network, of Joe Covello’s, JB’s, and the Esquire which went into the charity collection. It Heart Association, Teen Challenge, Club, always believed in the importance of is much easier getting set, when you know Ele’s Place, Loaves and Fishes, U of M supporting charities, including the LGBT the money is going to a good cause. Transplant Center, Food Movers, Sparrow community. Many people in the Greater This year a total of $375 was given Hospice and the American Red Cross . Lansing Area have many fond memories to the following charities based upon Frank would be proud of this tradition! of Frank and can picture walking into one suggestions by the euchre group: Greater Out. Helping You.

If you have been a victim of anti-gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender a violence, harassment or discrimination, call us. We’re here to help you.

HAPPY 1-877-787-4264 FATHERS or email: [email protected] DAY!

Ofﬁces in Grand Rapids and Detroit

June 2009 Stonewall continued everything for the next forty years and I have heard that if it weren’t for beyond. the Christopher Street Liberation Day shut both of them down. But Gerber, Historically, forty years is not a long Committee, which planned the march who died in 1972, lived long enough to time, especially for great political and to commemorate the first anniversary of experience the beginnings of the modern social change to occur. That’s why I remind the Stonewall Rebellion, we might have gay liberation movement. myself to be patient. However, it is difficult forgotten what happened at the Stonewall ·Lisa Ben, (anagram for “lesbian” – real watching the years go by, and one’s life Inn; that it is the annual recognition, honor name unknown) a young secretary in go by without experiencing the rights of and celebration of those nights in June and Los Angeles who started the first lesbian so many others – especially when we pay July of 1969 that has led to millions of us magazine, Vice Versa which she published for those rights with our tax dollars. So bursting out of closet doors and fighting in 1947 and 48. we keep fighting, keep challenging our for our rights. ·Harry Hay, who in 1950 founded the opponents and do what we need to do So let us all, once again on this 40th gay men’s organization, the Mattachine for equality such as the plaintiffs in the anniversary year, recognize, honor and Society. court case, filed this past March, have celebrate those courageous lesbians, gay ·Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon who done by challenging the federal Defense men and cross-dressers who fought for in 1955 in San Francisco founded the of Marriage Act (DOMA). If ever there our rights by participating in the Michigan Daughters of Bilitis, the first lesbian was an unjust law against lesbians and gay Pride march taking place in Lansing at political organization in the U.S. men, DOMA is certainly it. We need to Noon on June 13th and by voting, speaking ·Barbara Gittings, Craig Rodwell fight DOMA until it is officially overturned out about second-parent adoption, vocally and Frank Kameny who, along with a and no longer law; there are too many supporting a Michigan anti-bullying law few others, annually demonstrated at federal rights we are giving up by letting that includes sexual orientation and gender Independence Hall in Philadelphia on July DOMA exist. identity and expression, working toward 4th in the 1960s to remind people that, “a Though we have had recent success an equal rights bill that recognizes all group of Americans still don’t have their in most of the New England states Michigan citizens and reversing 2004’s basic rights to life, liberty and the pursuit passing gay marriage laws, please do ballot initiative that bans gay and lesbian of happiness.” not get complacent! Remember that in marriage in Michigan. It is time for all of These lesbian and gay activists, among the November 2008 elections we lost us to rise up. many others known and unknown, built a every major ballot initiative: Florida strong foundation from which the modern and Arizona passed anti-gay marriage LGBT movement was built. But it wasn’t amendments to their state constitutions, until the night of June 28th in 1969 at a gay Proposition 8 in California passed, bar called the Stonewall Inn that lesbians, amending its constitution banning gay gay men and cross-dressers actually fought and lesbian marriage and Arkansas passed back. Before then, when gay and lesbian Act One, which prevents any unmarried bars were raided, people got into the paddy couple, gay or straight, from becoming an wagons without a fight and accepted adoptive or foster parent (and, of course, whatever fate handed out to them – jail only heterosexual couples are allowed to time, their names printed in the newspaper, legally marry in Arkansas and DOMA loss of family, loss of jobs etc. Not any prevents the state from recognizing legal more, those days were over. It was time gay and lesbian marriages from other to rise up, and rise up they did changing states). LCC GSA Information The public is welcome to attend our meetings but you have to be a Lansing Community College student taking at Everybody Reads exists to empower the underrepresented least one credit to vote in elections, individuals and families in the tri-county area through a and go on trips. comprehensive community bookstore and LCC GSA meetings are held on neighborhood resource center. Mondays in student personal services Visit us at: room 211 on LCC’s main campus 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm! 2019 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48912 For more information please contact or call us at: (517) 346-9900 Jennifer Spenny ([email protected]) or Gina Beaudry ([email protected]) www.becauseeverybodyreads.com Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. & Sunday 9:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Lansing Association for Human Rights - GLBT News to lobby for Michigan Senate Bill 275, our community in any way we can. One Our Families will help reduce bullying. It’s not only an important way is to volunteer with some important bill, it was a great experience for of the great organizations that serve both Volunteer her students to be activists! the GLBT community as well as the entire by Mary Boudreau 2. Families and individuals in our population. We not only get a chance to Happy Pride to All community who do “the impossible” on a make our world a better place, we also GLBT families! We daily basis--raising happy, secure children show others what caring, committed, have much to celebrate despite the economic, social, and health hard-working, charming people we are! this year, as marriage challenges they face. I am amazed when It’s very hard to vote away our rights when equality is a reality in I hear the stories of sacrifice, dedication, they see all that! I think this may be most more and more places, commitment, and humor. important when it comes to the religious our president is supportive and intelligent, 3. The Pride Committee and other community. In some congregations, we and many laws may pass that will make volunteers who truly “keep hope alive” are all but invisible. Although it’s tempting life better for all of us. I am touched by the despite the challenges of our time. to sleep in one day a week, being present stories of many heroes in our community: There is so much to be done to continue and participating may be the way we truly 1. My partner, Susan Grettenberger, the progress we’ve made. I feel that it’s become “full partners” at the table. who worked with her students at CMU so important to participate in the life of

June 2009 Lansing Association for Human Rights - GLBT News SCHOOLS & YOUTH – The LGBT LAHR Bowling LGBT Project of the Project’s Schools & Youth program by Greg Serrano defends free expression in public schools, LAHR Bowling switched to summer ACLU of Michigan from ACLU demands that learning environments do not hours on Thursday, May 14th. If you like Since coming to the defense of The encourage bullying and violence, and helps to bowl with a non-competitive group for Children’s Hour, a play that was banned in educators create an atmosphere respectful fun (this is not league bowling), come join 1936 for a suggested lesbian relationship, of students’ sexual orientation and gender us at the Frandor Holiday Lanes on Grand the ACLU has been protecting the rights identity. River Avenue near Clippert Street and of LGBT Americans. The ACLU’s work PARENTING – The ACLU is committed Route 127 in Lansing. We bowl two games challenges discrimination in the courts and to defending the rights of LGBT parents, every Thursday. legislatures -- case by case, law by law -- to not only in custody and visitation Starting May 14th through change antigay policies. arrangements but also by challenging approximately Labor Day the start time As the efforts to win full civil rights discriminatory laws that restrict the rights will be 8 PM. We hope to see you there! and equality for LGBT people continue, of LGBT people to parent. (Publisher’s Note - Bowling along with the ACLU marks more than 70 years of TRANSGENDER – The ACLU many other local events are listed in our important legal victories. More than 50 works to include gender identity in calendar on page 15. If you are aware of years ago, the ACLU began a full LGBT nondiscrimination laws, raises awareness a social activity that is not listed and you rights docket. The ACLU of Michigan is of the types of harms that transgender would like to see it listed, please email one of a handful of ACLU affiliates that people face, and brings impact lawsuits the information to Bill at beachlerb@ boast a local LGBT Project. to change biased laws against transgender sbcglobal,net . Also, if you are aware of Today, the LGBT Project continues to people in employment, schools, and public a correction or change to the information fight discrimination and moves public accommodations. that is listed, please notify Bill) opinion on LGBT rights through the DISCRIMINATION – Since the courts, legislatures and public education 1950s, the ACLU has been defending a Niche Top100 gallery across five issue areas: LGBT people from discrimination. Over RELATIONSHIPS – Since the first the years, the ACLU has fought LGBT marriage lawsuit for same-sex couples in discrimination on several fronts—from 1972, the ACLU has been at the forefront challenging “sodomy” laws to advocating of both legal and public education efforts for civil rights that protect LGBT people. to secure marriage for same-sex couples Gallery of Contemporary Craft and win legal recognition for LGBT Bringing art relationships.

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June 2009 page 15 and mail it to us. Your Support Is Needed!!! If you or if you know businesses and organization who Bill Beachler, Publisher you would like to see advertise in The LGBT News, You are encouraged to renew your LAHR please contact us. Note the box on page 15 for more membership or join LAHR for the first advertising information. This is a critical source of time. You are encouraged to place new or funds for the newsletter!!! to continue Check out the ads advertising in this newsletter, in The LBGT which include: Jim News. You Noble for real estate, are encouraged Everybody Reads for to support those businesses and our community bookstore, organizations who do advertise in the Triangle Foundation for our newsletter. Your support of our local LGBT statewide LGBT organization, community is needed!!! Guardian Financial Planning for Our memberships are critical to support LGBT financial needs, Mackerel this newsletter and also to help fund the many Sky to beautify your home, Lansing projects and activities of LAHR. We include Area AIDS Network to improve your a letter within the newsletter for those whose health, Sundance for your car needs, membership is due. Currently, we are sending a City Pulse for the best local news and large number of these reminder letters and we need information, Gary Hicks for your legal you to renew your membership. In addition, if you are needs, Northside Printing, The Greater reading this newsletter from any of our distribution Lansing Network Against War & Injustice, locations, such as, Lansing City Hall, Everybody and American Flooring for you home Reads, Gone Wired, the Women’s Center, the MSU improvement needs. Please support these Alliance Office, Edgewood United Church, businesses and organizations Goldenrod Music, Community Health, and recommend them to LAAN, Esquire, Spiral, our newest your family and friends. location Chrome Cat or at a local event, please clip out the membership form on

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Care Coordination: Since 1986 LAAN has HIV Prevention & Early Intervention Volunteer Program: Many volunteer been providing Care Coordination Services to HIV Services: LAAN provides HIV Prevention Programs opportunities are available at LAAN. These opportunities infected men, women, and children. To date, over 900 under the guidance of the Prevention Coordinator. include; general office and front desk support, client individuals and their families have been provided care Since 1996, the LAAN prevention program has transportation, staffing and assisting with various assistance and support by Client Services Coordinators provided services to thousands of individuals in the community events such as AIDS Walk Lansing and under the direction of a Clinical Director. The Clinical Greater Lansing Area. These services have included World AIDS Day, as well as providing much needed Team assesses need and develops individualized care HIV Counseling, Testing, and Referral Services, volunteer staffing for prevention efforts including; HIV plans for each client served. These plans focus on the Skills Building Workshops and Education Workshops Counseling, Testing, and Referral Services, community coordination of core medical services as well as various designed to reduce the risk of HIV infection, Outreach, education, needs assessment, Outreach, and co- support services. LAAN operates a Food Pantry for and Information and Referral tables at community facilitation of various Skills Building Workshops. Two HIV infected individuals and their families. LAAN can events and health fairs. The LAAN Early Intervention of the more significant volunteer opportunities are the offer limited emergency assistance for clients meeting Program (EIP), as guided by the EIP Coordinator, Buddy Program and the LAAN Food Pantry. The Buddy eligibility criteria. Emergency financial assistance provides services to clients in substance abuse Program links volunteers with persons living with HIV can be provided to assist with medical, mental health treatment programs and others whose drug and to provide both practical and emotional support. The and dental costs as well as with housing and utilities. alcohol use contribute to risk behaviors for HIV Food Pantry provides food and nutritional supplements Transportation assistance, nutritional supplements, infection and/or transmission. EIP clients are offered to persons living with HIV and their families. Under the adherence supplies, and a broad range of support free, anonymous HIV counseling, testing, and referral direction of the Auxiliary Services Coordinator, dozens services are provided to each client based on individual services, communicable disease education, and skill of individuals throughout the year assist in the Food need. LAAN offers a Hott Topix Series for HIV infected building workshops. The Early Intervention Program Pantry; stocking products, assisting with food pick- persons as well as a Positively Aware Series for the also provides required communicable disease up and delivery, transporting clients, and providing newly diagnosed. The agency routinely coordinates education to substance abuse treatment providers as shopping assistance. services with a broad range of other community well as related technical assistance to agencies funded partners. by the Mid South Substance Abuse Commission.

913 W HOLMES ROAD SUITE 115 • LANSING, MICHIGAN 48910 • 517 394 3560 • WWW.LAANONLINE.ORG 10 Lansing Association for Human Rights - GLBT News wise to consult your tax professional to make sure your purchase Smart Money would qualify. Scam Uncle Sam? Government Cheese: By now you might be thinking something like “My partner owns our home and I have no ownership whatsoever of it. What Housing Edition! would happen if we moved and I owned our new home? Would I by Brian Winters, AAMS, Financial Planner be eligible for the $8,000 tax credit?” You may have heard about the 10% of Well the answer seems to be yes, you would be. If you lived in a a home price (up to $8,000) tax credit for home exclusively owned by your partner and you owned no other “first-time” homebuyers recently. Eight grand home for the last three years, you would actually be able to buy a is a pretty good chunk of government cheese. home in your name and be eligible for the tax credit, even if your But how does the credit work for same-sex couples? partner lived there with you. Nothing like having Uncle Sam pay First Things First you $8,000 to move! Only “first-time” homebuyers are eligible for this cheddar. But This gets complicated, so it’s a good idea to consult a qualified remember, this is the wacky IRS definition of “first-time.” estate planning and tax attorney before hitting the open house IRS Definition of First-Time Homebuyer: Anyone who hasn’t circuit. But since the IRS refuses to embrace marriage equality, owned a principal residence (home) in the last 3 years. this strategy should actually be quite legal. By way of logic, then… Really want to push the envelope? I wonder if your partner IRS Definition of Virgin: Someone who hasn’t had sex in the would qualify for the $8,000 credit if you sold your current home last three years??? But I digress. to them (assuming they presently have no ownership of it). Time A home must be purchased by December 1, 2009 to be to call the tax attorney! eligible. But assuming both members of a couple are “first- Brian Winters is President and Financial Planner at Guardian time” homebuyers, the IRS says they can split the credit amongst Financial Planning, LLC, an independent Registered Investment themselves “using any reasonable method.” Advisor serving the planning and investment needs of the LGBT Alternatively, if only one member of the couple qualifies as a community throughout Lansing, Jackson and Ann Arbor. He can “first-time” homebuyer, that person can purchase the home on be reached at [email protected]. their own and get the credit even if their partner lives with them (but doesn’t own any of the home). There are also income and other restrictions on this credit, so it’s

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June 2009 11 none, would be free. “Forced worship sweeping civil rights laws in a century, Pastor Paul stinks in God’s nostrils,” he wrote. including Civil Rights Act 1964 and Voting by Paul S. Downie Inspired leaders sent by God are Rights Act 1965. In our Darkness, God not enough, without vigorous grass sent Lincoln and Johnson, and grass roots In our deep Darkness, roots response. A grass roots uproar response only gradually took root in much God challenges us with forced King Henry II not only to cease of the nation. domination of the Church, but also to do a Or the New Deal of President Franklin inspired leaders period of humiliating public penance at the D. Roosevelt: bold actions to mitigate the Jesus was a victim of judicial murder grave of Archbishop Becket. Commenting worst effects of the unprecedented Great in A.D. 30. NOT the Jewish people, but on our own grass roots response, Thomas Depression; his ability to inspire with faith their high priest and some chief priests Jefferson in 1802 wrote: “I contemplate and hope a broken nation in the depths of deemed him guilty of religious sin, with sovereign reverence the act of the terrifying Darkness – “The only thing we and invoked State power vested in the whole American people which declared have to fear is fear itself,” he said. And Roman governor to enforce their religious that their legislature should make no law the people did respond, with renewed faith belief. In American legal terms, Jesus was respecting an established religion, or and hope, and with caring for the less crucified by an unholy alliance between prohibiting the free exercise thereof, thus fortunate. church and state. Roman gods and divinity building a wall of separation between In First Corinthians 13 the apostle Paul of Caesar were inseparable from loyalty church and state.” That wall of separation writes of faith, hope, and love: that if to the Roman Empire when Polycarp was has protected our religious liberty for 218 I have faith so as to move mountains, born in A.D. 69. In 155, at age 86, he years! and hope for gain by giving away all my was asked: “What harm is there in saying A different kind of inspired leader was possessions -- I gain nothing by such faith Caesar is Lord, and offering incense to his President Abraham Lincoln: his passion and hope, if I have not love. This less- divinity?” Calmly, quietly, he refused: and to heal the wounds of the one nation, than-half-a-page Chapter 13 is arguably was executed. North and South; his Emancipation the most exalted poetic-prose ever penned No wall of separation protected Jesus Proclamation which set the stage for by this New Testament spiritual giant, and and Polycarp, but through the centuries freeing all slaves; his short but utterly I hope you will read in full his brief words other inspired leaders embraced the magnificent Gettysburg Address; his in which he describes the profound, yet cause. Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas inspired leadership during the darkest hour very simple, characteristics of love. Paul Becket was murdered in his Cathedral by in our history, the 1860s Civil War. The concludes: “And now faith, hope, and love four knights of King Henry II because 1860s found powerful fruition in the 1960s abide, these three; and the greatest of these of opposition to domination of the under President Lyndon B. Johnson, again is love.” Church by the king. Puritan pastor Roger a decade of tumultuous Darkness that At this writing we are surrounded Williams was born in 1703. In Salem, shook our nation to its foundations: the by suffocating Darkness: millions Massachusetts, he pioneered church- brutal terrifying assassinations of unemployed and homes in foreclosure, state separation long before Madison and President John F. Kennedy, Rev. Martin a likely pandemic of as yet unknown Jefferson. Expelled from the colony by Luther King, and presidential candidate potential virulence, our broken health care its Puritan theocracy, he fled for his life Robert Kennedy. But President Johnson, system, Iran and North Korea, alarming to friendly Indians, then founded Rhode a southern Democrat from Texas, used his instability in Pakistan, and more. Like Island. There, those of any religion or powerful bully pulpit to obtain the most President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the Great Depression, President Barack Obama takes bold action on all fronts, and inspires most Americans with renewed faith and hope as he speaks to us of these. But in these struggles we are called not only to faith and hope, but especially to love; so I have excellent health insurance, but will labor for millions who do not. LGBTs and Allies must always infuse our struggles with love. The Rev. Paul S. Downie is an Episcopal Church priest of 49 years, taught 30 years at Lansing Community College until his retirement May 2005, and received the LAHR Prism Award as Ally of the Year for 2000. E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (517) 332-2326 (until 9:30 pm) Copyright 2009 by: Paul S. Downie, Trustee or any successor Trustee of the PAUL S. DOWNIE LIVING TRUST dated March 4, 1983, as amended. All rights reserved. 12 Lansing Association for Human Rights - GLBT News Hate Crimes Momentum Adoption Progress from Michigan Equality from Michigan Equality In sports “mo” refers to the powerful It is with great pleasure to announce that HB 4131, the 2nd parent adoption bill, advantage of momentum. Michigan passed the House Judiciary Committee, with all Democrats present voting yes and all Equality celebrates the passage of a Republicans on the committee voting no. We had eloquent, intelligent, and dynamic momentum-building hate crimes bill in speakers present testimony along with many families there showing their support. the U.S. House of Representatives. Both LAHR President Penny Gardner, a long time advocate for this bill, noted LAHR is an “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” endorser of this bill and thanked everyone who helped with this major accomplishment. would be included in the protections of this A special thanks goes out to Representative Mark Meadows, Chair of the committee, law upon passage in the Senate. President Representative Alma Wheeler Smith, sponsor of the bill, and to Representative Rebekah Obama has already indicated he would Warren for her unyielding support and assistance in championing 2nd parent adoption. sign the bill. Below are to the House Judiciary committee members and how they voted. Michigan Equality Co-Director, Dr. Committee Members: Julie Nemecek, was in Washington, D.C. Mark S. Meadows (D), Committee Chair, 69th District -YES to lobby for the passage of this bill. She Ellen Cogen Lipton (D), Majority Vice-Chair, 27th District -YES noted, “You could feel the excitement Lisa Brown (D), 39th District -YES and energy behind the efforts to pass Bob Constan (D), 16th District - YES this ground-breaking legislation. It will be the first time ‘gender identity’ Marc R. Corriveau (D), 20th District - ABSENT will be specifically included in a federal Andy Coulouris (D), 95th District -YES law. As we talked with senators and Andrew J. Kandrevas (D), 13th District - YES representatives, we were confident of the Bettie Cook Scott (D), 3rd District - YES bill’s passage.” Rebekah Warren (D), 53rd Di strict - YES The effect of a hate crimes bill which Tonya Schuitmaker (R), Minority Vice-Chair, 80th District - NO enumerates sexual orientation and gender identity along with other categories Justin Amash (R), 72nd District - NO (race, color, religion, national origin) Joseph Haveman (R), 90th District - NO is to provide federal resources and Rick Jones (R), 71st District - NO manpower to assist local law enforcement Eileen Kowall (R), 44th District - NO in investigating and prosecuting crimes Tory Rocca (R), 30th District - NO of violence where a protected group Our next goal is to have this bill brought before the full House of Representatives for a is targeted. It also allows the federal vote. We will keep you informed of any hearing dates and movement on this legislation. government to take over a case when local Please, if you have family or friends throughout Michigan, ask them to contact their law enforcement is reluctant or unwilling representatives to support this legislation! Thanks to all! to pursue such a case. Michigan Equality supports enumerated laws because of its research into the proven ineffectiveness of generic language in protecting gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. Michelle Brown, Michigan Equality’s other Co-Director, expressed her elation attorney at law at the passage of this bill but noted that Gary L. Hicks “Michigan Equality is also engaged in the ongoing education and advocacy that A general practice proudly serving the Mid- will increase our society’s willingness to Michigan GLBT community with over a embrace the rich diversity of our country. wills quarter century of legal experience. We hope and work for the day when this reasonable rates kind of legislation will not be needed.” trusts free consultation Michigan Equality is a Lansing-based statewide organization committed to 517-525-1732 keeping the momentum going in its traffic efforts to bring equality to Michigan’s gay, criminal lesbian, bisexual, and transgender citizens business law through education, advocacy, and political action. For more information, contact Julie powers of attorney Nemecek at jnemecek@michiganequality. org or 517-416-4608. estate planning for our families

June 2009 13 Number of Volunteers providing various Care/Prevention/Special Positively Speaking Event Services: 133 Number of Support Groups/Workshops with Volunteer Co- Volunteerism at the Lansing Area Facilitation: 24 AIDS Network; A Legacy Continues Transportation Services: 88 clients/152 requests/488 rides (600 by Jacob A. Distel, Jr. volunteer hours) On April 30, 2009 the Lansing Area AIDS Network recognized Food Pantry: 164 clients/1298 pantry visits/ 45,000 meals (6,000 the contributions of nearly 200 individuals who had volunteered volunteer hours) their efforts over the course of the past year in helping LAAN Office Support Assistance: 5,500 volunteer hours realize its stated objectives in providing HIV care and prevention Special Events and Fundraising Activities: 12,500 volunteer hours services throughout the Mid-Michigan Region. The total volunteer contribution to LAAN during the past The beloved volunteers of LAAN are not only critical to year was nearly 30,000 hours, equivalent to more than 14 full the good works which this agency takes so much pride in, but, time employees. With a total of 11 paid staff, it becomes quite indeed, continue the legacy of the volunteer founders of the 1985 apparent how critical the volunteered services of these dedicated grassroots effort which ultimately became LAAN. individuals are. During the Volunteer Appreciation Reception, LAAN The volunteer program at LAAN is coordinated by Nancy recognized three individuals as 2009 Volunteers of the Year; English, Auxiliary Services Coordinator. The agency is very Rachel Copeland, Ellen Ives, and Scott Yashonis. Each of these fortunate to have Nancy. She asks, that if you are interested in individuals have contributed many hours of volunteer services information about volunteering at LAAN, you contact her at over many years and join past recipients, Marian Benjamin, 517-394-3719 (Ext. 29) or via e-mail at nenglish@laanonline. Jack Baker, Peggy Alston, Al Hakala, and Joseph Bell. These org. Additional information and a volunteer application are also individuals should inspire and humble all of us. available on LAAN’s website www.laanonline.org . The following data indicates what the past year’s volunteers DRIVERS NEEDED have provided: LAAN is seriously in need of individuals to volunteer as drivers Number of Volunteers providing Buddy Support Services: 8 (770 to assist individuals needing transportation to get to and from hours) medical appointments and to visit the Food Pantry. If you might Number of Volunteers providing Care Services: 45 be able to assist on either a short or long term term basis please Number of Volunteers providing Prevention Services: 18 (over contact Nancy English at 517-394-3719, Ext. 13 or via e-mail at 200 hours) [email protected] .

New Cartoon Introduction by Bill Beachler, Publisher Them made its debut in the May issue of The LGBT News. Thom Dotson, a local Lansing resident, volunteered to produce this LGBT cartoon as a new monthly addition to the newsletter. The following cartoon continues the introduction to what this artistic, exciting, and message filled story is all about. Your feedback and comments are always welcome. Please email Thom at [email protected] . I hope you enjoy this new venture in the newsletter.

14 Lansing Association for Human Rights - GLBT News Calendar of Events! Join LAHR Today SUNDAY • Light House Chapel - LGBT friendly church -11:00 a.m. service - 1501 and Get a Windsor St., Lansing, 48906. Contact (517) 394-2080 for info. • All Saints Episcopal Church, Open and Affirming, Sunday Service 10am, 800 Abbott, East Lansing. Free T-Shirt! • Edgewood United Chuch of Christ, Open and Affirming, Sunday Service 10am, 469 N. Hagadorn, East Lansing • Unitarian Universalist Church, Open and Affirming, Sunday Services Join LAHR Today! 9:15am & 11:15am, 855 Grove, East Lansing • Volleyball - Call Bill for information at 337-1419. LAHR Membership &Subscription Information • Fellowship for Today - Rev. Karen Arndorfer - at 5:30 p.m. - Open & Name(s)______Affirming = 855 Grove St., East Lansing – contact (517) 337-4070 or info@ fellowshipfortoday.org . Address______• Unity of Greater Lansing - Rev. Kent Lederer - at 10 a.m. (starting Sept. at 11 a.m.) - Open & Affirming - 240 Marshall St. - contact (517) 371-3010 City/State/Zip______or [email protected] . Phone/Email______MONDAY Yes, I would like to join LAHR to support • Sistrum, Lansing Women’s Chrous - 7-9pm @ University Lutheran its activities by enclosing my contribution of: church, 1020 S. Harrison, E. Lansing. http://www.sistrum.org. Contact: Lisa q $15.00 Limited income membership includes the LGBT News mailed to Haston, [email protected]. your address, Association voting rights and a tax deduction. • LGBT AA meeting - 7:30 p.m., University Lutheran Church, South q $20.00 Individual membership includes the LGBT News mailed to your Harrison, in East Lansing. address, Association voting rights and a tax deduction. • Social Knit Night - 2nd Monday of each month. 6:30 - 9:00 p.m., 319 S. q $40.00 Family membership includes the LGBT News mailed to your Waverly Rd. address, Association voting rights for up to two individuals in the household and a tax deduction. TUESDAY q $50.00 Matron/Patron membership at this organizational sustaining • Grand River Connection - 4th Tuesday casual group for the “creative level includes the LGBT News mailed to your address, Association voting class.” Sign-up and get more info at: www.grandriverconnection.com. rights for up to two individuals in the household and a tax deduction. • Euchre at Esquire Club - registration at 6:30 p.m. q $100.00+ Benefactor membership at this organizational sustaining level • Greater Lansing Gay Men’s Chorus- Weekley rehearsals are at the Molly includes the LGBT News mailed to your address, Association voting rights for Grove Chapel of the First Presbyterian Church at 510 W. Ottawa St. in up to two individuals in the household, and a tax deduction. downtown Lansing from 6:45-8:45pm. To email: [email protected] or vist the website at www.glgmc.org. First time members will receive a LAHR T-shirt. Renewing members who donate at the Matron/Patron or Benefactor level will also receive a LAHR T-Shirt. WEDNESDAY Please make checks payable and return to: • Great Lakes Pride Band Rehearsals - Every Wednesday at the Unity of LAHR, Inc., P.O. Box 6565, East Lansing, MI 48826 Greater Lansing church, 240 Marshall St.. For information call Paul or Phil Contributions to LAHR are deductible on your federal income tax return. at 517-664-1275. “The purpose of the Lansing Association for Human Rights is to improve the quality of life for Lesbian, • GLSEN Mid-Michigan - 4:30 p.m. 3rd Wednesday of each month in Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people throughout the greater Lansing area through civil rights activities, Melinda Goff’s room at Eastern. communications, education, social events and supportive services.” • Suits And The City - 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the Month - the location changes each month - please visit suitsandthecity.org Pet Support Services, Inc. for the location or to contact the organization. P.O. Box 18041, Lansing, MI 48901 • LAHR’s Coffee Night - Join your friends - every Wednesday from or call (517) 267-9299 or email us at [email protected] 8-10 p.m. at The Gone Wired Cafe, 2021 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing. For questions or info contact Kevin Magnan at [email protected] • Karaoke Night - 9:00 p.m. at Esquire THURSDAY Advertise in the LGBT News! • LAHR Bowling - 9 p.m. for the summer, at Holiday Lanes on Grand River Deadline is the 10th of each month near Frandor. Look for us near lane 40. Contact Greg at MILatino@aol. com Our advertising rates: • Lansing Community College Gay Straight Alliance - Meets every Full page - $90 Thursday, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. at the Gannon Vocational Building 262. Contact All ads must be submitted advisor, Jennifer Spenny email: [email protected] 2/3 page - $75 in electronic format, • Bingo - 7:00 p.m. at Esquire 1/2 page - $65 preferably in PDF or EPS format FRIDAY 1/3 page - $45 Pay for 6 months in advance • LAHR Downtown Lunch - 11:45 a.m. second Friday at Soup to Nutz 1/4 page - $35 and get one month free! Bistro on Kalamazoo & Grand Avenue, credit cards accepted! Contact 1/6 page - $25 Greg at [email protected] For more information contact Bill Beachler 517-337-1419 or • LGBT AA meeting, 6:30 p.m., at University United Methodist Church, email Bill at [email protected] South Harrison, in East Lansing SATURDAY • LAHR Breakfast Club - 11 a.m. 4th Sat. each month – met at Denny’s Restaurant at 2701 East Grand River in East Lansing – close to Park Lake. Contact Bill 337-1419 or [email protected] . Visit LAHR Online!! www.LAHRonline.org

June 2009 15 NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID LANSING, MI PERMIT NO. 145

P.O. Box 6565 East Lansing, MI 48826