In modern history, few nations have suffered as much as Poland. �Once the dominant power in east central Europe, the nation was carved up as Prussia and Russia expanded, its people persecuted.
Today, the nation suffered what law professor William A. Jacobson billed a “tragedy upon tragedy“; virtually the nation’s entire leadership was wiped out in a single plane crash:
The President of Poland and much of Poland’s military and civilian leadership were killed when the presidential plane crashed in Russia on the way to commemorate the massacre of 22,000 Polish officers by the Soviets in 1940.
It is as if that very forest where the plane went down harbors an animus to Polish leadership:
The crash came as a stunning blow to Poland, killing many of the country?s top leaders and reviving, for some, the horror of the Katyn massacre.
?It is a damned place,? former president Aleksander Kwas?niewski told TVN24. ?It sends shivers down my spine. First the flower of the Second Polish Republic is murdered in the forests around Smolensk, now the intellectual elite of the Third Polish Republic die in this tragic plane crash when approaching Smolensk airport.?
Jacobson had really written about the�Katyn Forest massacre, an event at the outset of World War II that often doesn’t get much attention–as it puts out Soviet allies in a bad light, a very bad light.
Our hearts — and prayers — go out to the Polish people.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
BearPodcast 340 ? HiBearnation.org, Mutiny on the Mississippi, Bears Against Bullies
HiBearnation.org, Mutiny on the Mississippi, Bears Against Bullies
MP3 Audio, Duration ? 36:59, Size ? 35.8MB
Hosts: Nard and Ray
Guest: Matt from St. Louis
HiBearnation is on November 11-14. Matt joined us and talked about their event. Ray had fun at Texas Renaissance Festival. Nard got his Bears Against Bullies T-shirt. Wear purple on October 20 in remembrance of the teenagers who were lost due to school bullying.
Subscribe via iTunes and leave a review
E-mail: show (at) bearpodcast.com
Call our voicemail line at 206-222-BEAR
read more
MP3 Audio, Duration ? 36:59, Size ? 35.8MB
Hosts: Nard and Ray
Guest: Matt from St. Louis
HiBearnation is on November 11-14. Matt joined us and talked about their event. Ray had fun at Texas Renaissance Festival. Nard got his Bears Against Bullies T-shirt. Wear purple on October 20 in remembrance of the teenagers who were lost due to school bullying.
Subscribe via iTunes and leave a review
E-mail: show (at) bearpodcast.com
Call our voicemail line at 206-222-BEAR
read more
Adrianna and Gia kiss and tell on 90210
When we last checked in with the "kids" at West Beverly High ? three weeks ago; please forgive me ? Gia rebuffed Mandy Musgrave's efforts to rekindle their romance because she was falling for Adrianna. A lot has happened since then, so we've got no time to waste in catching up!
2.15 What's Past is Prologue
Gia has a Volkswagen van because of course she does, and she and Adrianna are driving around, windows down, singing Dolly Parton's "Jolene," which is second in break-up song singalongs only to Alanis Morissette's "You Oughta Know." (Well, unless your bi-curious girlfriend leaves you, and then it's probably best to go with Indigo Girl's cover of Dire Straits "Romeo and Juliet.") (God. High school. Never again.) Adrianna is still pining over Navid, but Gia tells her she'll meet someone else soon, and she'll forget Navid ever existed. (I've already forgotten Navid exists. Like, just in the space between those two sentences.)
Because she's not ready to come clean about her lezzer crush on her new BFF, Gia suggests that Adrianna try out for a band named The Glorious Steinems to get her mind off Navid, but Adrianna thinks that's just the silliest thing ? because she hasn't watched the next scene.
read more
2.15 What's Past is Prologue
Gia has a Volkswagen van because of course she does, and she and Adrianna are driving around, windows down, singing Dolly Parton's "Jolene," which is second in break-up song singalongs only to Alanis Morissette's "You Oughta Know." (Well, unless your bi-curious girlfriend leaves you, and then it's probably best to go with Indigo Girl's cover of Dire Straits "Romeo and Juliet.") (God. High school. Never again.) Adrianna is still pining over Navid, but Gia tells her she'll meet someone else soon, and she'll forget Navid ever existed. (I've already forgotten Navid exists. Like, just in the space between those two sentences.)
Because she's not ready to come clean about her lezzer crush on her new BFF, Gia suggests that Adrianna try out for a band named The Glorious Steinems to get her mind off Navid, but Adrianna thinks that's just the silliest thing ? because she hasn't watched the next scene.
read more
Alice?s actual chart from The L Word is on eBay. Bidding...
Alice?s actual chart from The L Word is on eBay. Bidding starts at $10,000 - or you can just buy it now for $20,000. OR - you can just go to Staples and buy your own really nice dry erase board and make one yourself!
They say a ?donation? from the sale will go to the Matthew Shepard Foundation. That?s nice, but wouldn?t all proceeds be even nicer?�
They say a ?donation? from the sale will go to the Matthew Shepard Foundation. That?s nice, but wouldn?t all proceeds be even nicer?�
Gay Politics Report will not publish Friday
Gay Politics Report will not be published Friday, Nov. 26, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday in the U.S. -More- New Media Manager
Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund and Leadership Institute
Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund and Leadership Institute
It Does Get Better:
The City of Oak Park, Ill. has embarked on a project to collect and publish testimonials and pledges for their YouTube channel, OPItGetsBetter. Below are a few screen captures and excerpts from the channel. See many more at http://www.youtube.com/opitgetsbetter.*
Tim Gunn has the gilded touch as new book becomes a bestseller
"Project Runway" darling Tim Gunn?s new book hit shelves at bookstores across the nation this past September.
Already a bestseller, "Gunn?s Golden Rules" has been billed by some as a tell all, packed with gossip from the fashion world and from his personal life.
Recently leading women?s interest and lifestyle site TheFrisky.com scored an interview with the haute couture maven.
Gunn discloses juicy gossip about his deceased father(rumored to have been involved in a romantic relationship with J. Edgar Hoover), Alexis Stewart (Martha's daughter), Gretchen (the most hated contestant on this season of "Project Runway") and much, much more.
read more
Already a bestseller, "Gunn?s Golden Rules" has been billed by some as a tell all, packed with gossip from the fashion world and from his personal life.
Recently leading women?s interest and lifestyle site TheFrisky.com scored an interview with the haute couture maven.
Gunn discloses juicy gossip about his deceased father(rumored to have been involved in a romantic relationship with J. Edgar Hoover), Alexis Stewart (Martha's daughter), Gretchen (the most hated contestant on this season of "Project Runway") and much, much more.
read more
World Aids Day: lighting the way
Sydney will light two famous landmarks – the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House – in red light. to mark World AIDS Day
Monday, November 29, 2010
‘Don’t ask, don’t tell’ injunction now up to judge
SAN DIEGO, Ca (AP) – U.S. government lawyers are trying to stop a federal judge from issuing an injunction that would immediately do what President Obama has yet to accomplish so far in his first term: Halt the military’s ban on openly gay troops. Now it is up to U.S. District Court Judge Virginia Phillips to decide if she is willing to do that.
The White House says the legal filing Thursday by the U.S. Department of Justice attorneys in a federal court in Riverside follows government procedure by defending an act of Congress that is being challenged, but it does not detract from the president’s efforts to get ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ repealed.
“This filing in no way diminishes the president’s firm commi…
Read More
The White House says the legal filing Thursday by the U.S. Department of Justice attorneys in a federal court in Riverside follows government procedure by defending an act of Congress that is being challenged, but it does not detract from the president’s efforts to get ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ repealed.
“This filing in no way diminishes the president’s firm commi…
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Real Estate News
Lorie Zapf follow up
Last Friday, our community got some good news from the San Diego Association of Realtors (SDAR) which decided to suspend its endorsement of Lorie Zapf for City Council. Zapf failed to disclose a number of crippling personal details including her open gay-hatred and her operation of a short sale scam with husband Eric. Zapf is now forced to remove the Realtor thumbs-up from all campaign material and won’t have access to the organization’s PAC funds. Thanks to all who took a moment to contact SDAR, both as Realtors and as clients. Your direct involvement helped immensely. Professional credit is owed to SD City Beat’s Dave Maass and Realtor Pat Flannery from blogofsandiego.com.
Before we uncork the Prosecco in victory, let me offer a more dir…
Read More
Last Friday, our community got some good news from the San Diego Association of Realtors (SDAR) which decided to suspend its endorsement of Lorie Zapf for City Council. Zapf failed to disclose a number of crippling personal details including her open gay-hatred and her operation of a short sale scam with husband Eric. Zapf is now forced to remove the Realtor thumbs-up from all campaign material and won’t have access to the organization’s PAC funds. Thanks to all who took a moment to contact SDAR, both as Realtors and as clients. Your direct involvement helped immensely. Professional credit is owed to SD City Beat’s Dave Maass and Realtor Pat Flannery from blogofsandiego.com.
Before we uncork the Prosecco in victory, let me offer a more dir…
Read More
My Parents Rock Atlanta Pride 2010
I am proud of my parents who are not only supportive of me, but they also advocate for me. I wish they had a "Cool Parent Pride" parade because I would be the Grand Marshall..
ENTRY DEADLINE EXTENDED!! Enter our Anti-Bullying PSA Contest
You now have til Jan. 10 to upload your 25 second video against bullying.
Australian Labor PArty may recognise gay marriage yet
Doug Cameron declared that the feeling of the ALP was that they should be the progressive party. Hallelujah! Finally the ALP have realised that the rest of the world is moving on and that human rights including those of gay voters have finally been recognised around the rest of the developed world. Cameron declared that gay marriage was inevitable! Maybe it is inevitable that Australia will catch up with the northern hemisphere this decade.
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Save Our Democracy -- Support the Fair Elections Now Act
http://action.now.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=2584The Fair Elections Now Act (H.R. 6116/H.R. 1826) is an extremely important piece of legislation that must be adopted soon. This act would hold Congress accountable to the people rather than billionaires and wealthy special interest groups that can now bankroll candidates thanks to the recent Citizens United Supreme Court ruling.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Horoscope: October 28-November 3, 2010
Horoscope: Heavenly Round-Up: Welcome to the shooting match which is your life. Take aim at your objectives, align your spine with your desires and put your back into it. You've got the necessary coordination to hit what you're shooting for, but you'll have to concentrate. You're in the thick of your reward phase, again. Appreciate what comes your way—and remember you made a conscious choice somewhere back down the line to bring you to the current moment. Enjoy the moment, but keep your eyes open and on the prize. Aries: Look hard. Measure twice in order to cut once. Pay attention to the instructions as provided, and read them all the way through before you get started—this step could save you a bucket of time and resources both. Work your metabolic responses on Monday. Taurus: Is it you? Is it something you were supposed to have done? Is it nobody's business but your own at the end of the day? Really, you need to relax. You need to get out more. You need to begin planning your next big vacation. Maybe you need a home makeover! ... (more)
Headed To The Big Easy
No, I’m not going to Barney Frank’s Florida condo.� Shame on you people!
Actually I’m bound for New Orleans, Louisiana to report on and envelop myself in the Southern Republican Leadership Council.� I’m hoping it is like CPAC but with more Southern food.
I’ll be reporting from inside at Bloggers’ Lounge later tonight.��Four great speakers lead off the program tonight:� Mary Matalin, Liz Cheney,�JC Watts &�Newt Gingrich.� Hmmm, Watts/Cheney… 2012 anyone?
So watch this space later today for reports of N’awlins.
-Bruce (GayPatriot)
Actually I’m bound for New Orleans, Louisiana to report on and envelop myself in the Southern Republican Leadership Council.� I’m hoping it is like CPAC but with more Southern food.
I’ll be reporting from inside at Bloggers’ Lounge later tonight.��Four great speakers lead off the program tonight:� Mary Matalin, Liz Cheney,�JC Watts &�Newt Gingrich.� Hmmm, Watts/Cheney… 2012 anyone?
So watch this space later today for reports of N’awlins.
-Bruce (GayPatriot)
Betts Sentencing: Gloria Allred to ask the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate Betts murder as a hate crime
News:One of the men charged in the murder of local gay principal Brian Betts, who was killed on April 15, was sentenced to 40 years in prison Tuesday, Nov. 23. According to WTOP.com, earlier this month Alante Saunders pleaded guilty to fatally shooting Betts at Betts's home. Others charged in the case include Deontra Gray, Joel Johnson and Sharif Lancaster. Lancaster, who pleaded guilty to charges of robbery and using a handgun during a felony, is scheduled to be sentenced ...more
I Was Sprayed With Estrogen
Last week, I took my son to a party across town and it was going to last 4 1/2 hours. Rather than driving back home and then returning for him later, Melissa & I decided to do a dinner and a movie night. I had a restaurant gift card and the theatre near the party has $1 movies. No, they aren't new releases, but sometimes they aren't out on video just yet..We tried talking our 16 year old into joining us but we wanted to see "Letters to Juliet" and she wanted to see "Date Night". She was adamant about not going to see a "chick flick" so we let her have the house to herself and took off for our evening.. .We arrived at the theatre to find that it was much populated like an Amazon tribe (women traveling in packs and an occasional, poor specimen of the male species present). The few men that dared to come to this chick flick were dutifully following their wives around to the seats of her choosing whilst carrying her purse with his balls inside. Shameful, it was. We made jokes about confiscating their man cards while we waited for the show to begin..As interesting as the movie was, the women in the row in front of us were also fascinating to watch. When the no-good boyfriend did things to ruin the romance of their Italian vacation (I've also lived this one...), the women would murmer to each other evil things about him. He would say some insensitive thing to the heroine of the movie and there would be a collective sound of female disapproval throughout the theatre. Other times, there would be sounds of disgust or disapproval and Melissa & I didn't understand why... we felt like we were a bit like fish out of water. Are we too butch to enjoy a good chick flick?.At the romantic ending, the women in front of us were crying to each other and having all types of girly emotional displays. The two of us lesbians looked at each other like, "What the HELL is this about? Should we be crying or something?". We started to get the giggles and the credits began to roll. Then, the weirdest thing I have ever experienced in a movie theatre happened: a HUGE, high-pitched roar of 150 women excitedly talking to their girlfriends in their girliest voices deafened the room. Stunned, we turned to look at each other to see what kind of weird "Candid Camera" moment this was. ."I feel like I've just been sprayed with Estrogen." I said to Melissa. ."Totally! I feel like I'm about to start my period just from being here in this room right now."
Not only "For Colored Girls"
If you?re looking for Madea (Tyler Perry in front of the camera in drag), or Black-faced versions of Sex in the City or He?s Just Not That Into You, then Mr. Perry?s adaptation of Ntozake Shange?s 1975 womanist choreopoem For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow Is Enuf will gravely disappoint you.
Defining Us By Our Extremes Revealing their Prejudices
In the mid-1990s, when I was working on a Republican campaign in Arlington County and dating a Democrat, I took said Democrat to a social function for the campaign, a pot-luck dinner in a volunteer’s home. �My date had a good time and appreciated the warm welcome he received (both as an out-Democrat and an out-gay man).
One thing which struck me was his comment as we were leaving. �He said the gathering reminded him of similar such gatherings for Democrats in Denver (where he had grown up and first became active in politics). �Most of the people were decent folk, but there were a few overly obsessed with politics and burning with bile. �I try to keep that notion in mind every time I hear some harangue from an angry left-winger. �That person doesn’t define their movement, but represents its extremes.
This notion came to mind as I reflect on my post on Tom Campbell. �I probably should have given it a different title because I did not mean to suggest that the candidate is himself anti-Semitic. �There is no evidence that he is. �But, he does have some strange associations.
And said associations reminded me of some of the freaks and fanatics who frequent libertarian conclaves. �And now is that given the Tea Party’s prominence, Democrats have suddenly determined that such freaks in GOP circles define the party, yet they — and their media allies — were strangely silent about such freaks in the anti-war movement.
Now, there’s even a movement afoot to crash the tea party and “propagate their pre-existing propensity for paranoia”. � They define us by their prejudices and attempt to make them real by pretending to act on behalf of the movement by acting, not as do most Tea Party protesters, but as left-wingers believe we behave. � They need to crash the tea party to make it fit their twisted perception of the reality of our rallies.
Can you imagine how, during the Bush era, the MSM would have reacted (and with good reason) if right-wingers had attempted to crash the anti-war rallies?
One thing which struck me was his comment as we were leaving. �He said the gathering reminded him of similar such gatherings for Democrats in Denver (where he had grown up and first became active in politics). �Most of the people were decent folk, but there were a few overly obsessed with politics and burning with bile. �I try to keep that notion in mind every time I hear some harangue from an angry left-winger. �That person doesn’t define their movement, but represents its extremes.
This notion came to mind as I reflect on my post on Tom Campbell. �I probably should have given it a different title because I did not mean to suggest that the candidate is himself anti-Semitic. �There is no evidence that he is. �But, he does have some strange associations.
And said associations reminded me of some of the freaks and fanatics who frequent libertarian conclaves. �And now is that given the Tea Party’s prominence, Democrats have suddenly determined that such freaks in GOP circles define the party, yet they — and their media allies — were strangely silent about such freaks in the anti-war movement.
Now, there’s even a movement afoot to crash the tea party and “propagate their pre-existing propensity for paranoia”. � They define us by their prejudices and attempt to make them real by pretending to act on behalf of the movement by acting, not as do most Tea Party protesters, but as left-wingers believe we behave. � They need to crash the tea party to make it fit their twisted perception of the reality of our rallies.
Can you imagine how, during the Bush era, the MSM would have reacted (and with good reason) if right-wingers had attempted to crash the anti-war rallies?
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Pentagon leaders urge Congress to act on gay ban
The Pentagon's top leaders warned Sunday that if Congress fails to repeal the ban on gays serving openly in the military, the courts may order changes that military leaders consider too fast or poorly thought-out. The...
A Menstrual Conversation
Men, don't bother to read this.....Ladies, over the last year or two, I've been having increasingly heavy menstrual cycles. They used to be relatively mild, but as of late, they could be likened to the draining of a main artery. I have been discussing the issues of how extreme the flow has been with my wife, Melissa. She has been a sympathetic ear because hers used to be this bad all of the time until she had surgery for it..Having a sense of humor about it has been important. The last thing I would want is for her to go into the bathroom and think I murdered someone in there. She can laugh about how fast I can kill a box of tampons. And they aren't the wussy little "Regulars". I buy "Mrs. Kong" sized tampons. Even with that kind of protection, I have had a few leaky emergencies this week..Tonight, we went out to a gathering and when we were getting ready to leave, I had that feeling of "FULL!" so I went to check on things. Yep, FULL. Oops. No replacement tampon. Shit. I'll have to make a make-shift pad from toilet paper to get me through the drive home. I found a plastic Target bag in my car to sit on just in case there was an outpouring of love from good ole Aunt Flo..Driving home, I was discussing my situation with Melissa. ."I feel like I should be getting a transfusion from all of this blood loss. This is crazy! I wanted to stop at the Marietta Gay Pride festival on the way home but can't even do that because I have a geyser in my panties!" ."Well, when you have these heavy periods, just wear a pad as a back-up" she advised.."I just hate pads! They are bulky and hot and itchy. I really, really have a strong aversion to them." I said.."Fine if you don't want to wear them at home, but when we go out tomorrow, you better man up and put your pad on so we don't end up in this predicament again!"
Can I complain about a doctor online?
I had an absolutely terrible incident with a homophobic doctor. I have taken all the steps to report him to the local College of Physicians and Surgeons, and I hope he gets disciplined, but that doesn't address the systemic problem of homophobia in family physicians in my area (and it doesn't help me find a less homophobic doctor to switch to). I would like to blog about the incident, contact gay and lesbian associations, etc, but I am worried about being sued for libel/slander/I don't know. Will I get in trouble if I write publicly about this incident? Can I use the Dr's name? I'm in Alberta, Canada.
The Election and Women's Rights: Don't Compromise, Organize!
http://www.now.org/press/11-10/11-03.htmlNOW President Terry O'Neill says: "Last night's turnover of the House of Representatives was a disappointing loss for women. We now face an anti-choice majority and a new Speaker of the House who will threaten to roll back hard-fought progress for women. But NOW is not going away, and we will fight harder and motivate our grassroots so we can demand woman-friendly policies."
Transgender Houston Woman Thrown in Jail for Going to the Restroom
Houston, Texas made history earlier this year, when Mayor Annise Parker issued an executive order barring discrimination in public facilities on the basis of gender identity and gender expression. Parker's order extended a city non-discrimination ordinance which already protected Houston residents on the basis of sexual orientation, race, religion and gender.
Of course, someone might want to let the Houston Police Department know about this order. Because last Friday, a Houston police officer threw a transgender woman in jail just for using a women's restroom.
That woman is Tyjanae Moore, and she spoke with Houston's Fox station to discuss the ordeal she went through after using the women's restroom at the Houston Public Library.
"I felt so belittled going to a jail over something so simple and stupid," Moore said.
Police said they were justified in making the arrest, because Moore herself hasn't gone through a complete sex change operation. Because of that, police viewed her as a male, despite the fact that she lives 24/7 as a woman. And the end result was a visit to a jail cell.
Moore herself noted that in the past she has tried to use the men's restroom, but that her safety was put into question.
"I went to the males' restroom and the man followed me into the restroom, so I figured that was not good. It wasn't safe and I started going to female restrooms and that's where I'm comfortable with," Moore said.
Perhaps not surprisingly, a coalition of anti-gay pastors in the area are pulling a Paul Revere now, shouting at the top of their lungs that because Mayor Parker extended the city's anti-discrimination ordinance to include protections for gender identity and gender expression, the trans people are coming to take over the restrooms. They even want the Attorney General of Texas to invalidate Mayor Parker's executive order, so that trans people are locked into going into the bathroom of their biological gender, no matter whether it's an unsafe environment or not. Ah, compassionate conservatives at their finest.
Check out the Fox video with Moore below. Meanwhile, send the Houston Police Department a message that they should be following Mayor Parker's executive order with regards to non-discrimination. The goal of such an order is to make sure that no Houston residents feel persecuted for being who they are. The Houston Police Department failed in this circumstance, and they should at the very least apologize to Moore, and pledge to abide by all of Houston's anti-discrimination policies.
Photo credit: dcbprime
Of course, someone might want to let the Houston Police Department know about this order. Because last Friday, a Houston police officer threw a transgender woman in jail just for using a women's restroom.
That woman is Tyjanae Moore, and she spoke with Houston's Fox station to discuss the ordeal she went through after using the women's restroom at the Houston Public Library.
"I felt so belittled going to a jail over something so simple and stupid," Moore said.
Police said they were justified in making the arrest, because Moore herself hasn't gone through a complete sex change operation. Because of that, police viewed her as a male, despite the fact that she lives 24/7 as a woman. And the end result was a visit to a jail cell.
Moore herself noted that in the past she has tried to use the men's restroom, but that her safety was put into question.
"I went to the males' restroom and the man followed me into the restroom, so I figured that was not good. It wasn't safe and I started going to female restrooms and that's where I'm comfortable with," Moore said.
Perhaps not surprisingly, a coalition of anti-gay pastors in the area are pulling a Paul Revere now, shouting at the top of their lungs that because Mayor Parker extended the city's anti-discrimination ordinance to include protections for gender identity and gender expression, the trans people are coming to take over the restrooms. They even want the Attorney General of Texas to invalidate Mayor Parker's executive order, so that trans people are locked into going into the bathroom of their biological gender, no matter whether it's an unsafe environment or not. Ah, compassionate conservatives at their finest.
Check out the Fox video with Moore below. Meanwhile, send the Houston Police Department a message that they should be following Mayor Parker's executive order with regards to non-discrimination. The goal of such an order is to make sure that no Houston residents feel persecuted for being who they are. The Houston Police Department failed in this circumstance, and they should at the very least apologize to Moore, and pledge to abide by all of Houston's anti-discrimination policies.
Photo credit: dcbprime
Pope seeks to start debate on condoms and AIDS
(Vatican City)� Pope Benedict XVI sought to "kick-start a debate" when he said some condom use may be justified, Vatican insiders say, raising hopes the church may be starting to back away from a complete ban and allow condoms to play a role in the battle against AIDS.
Just a year after he said condoms could be making the AIDS crisis worse, Benedict said that for some people, such as male prostitutes, using them could be a step in assuming moral responsibility because the intent is to "reduce the risk of infection."
The pope did not suggest using condoms as birth control, which is banned by the church, or mention the use of condoms by married couples where one partner is infected.
Still, some saw the pope's comments as an attempt to move the church forward on the issue of condoms and health risks.
For years, divisions in the Vatican have held up any effort to reconcile the church's ban on contraception with the need to help halt the spread of AIDS. Theologians have studied the possibility of condoning limited condom use as a lesser evil, and reports years ago said the Vatican was considering a document on the issue, though opposition apparently blocked publication.
One senior Vatican official said Monday he believed the pope just "wanted to kick-start the debate." He spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue.
For the deeply conservative Benedict, it seemed like a bold leap into modernity - and a nightmare for many at the Vatican. The pope's comments sparked a fierce debate among Catholics, politicians and health workers that is certain to reverberate for a long time despite frantic damage control at the Vatican.
In a sign of the tensions, the Holy See's chief spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, rushed out a statement to counter any impression the church might lift its ban on artificial birth control. Lombardi stressed the pope's comment neither "reforms nor changes" church teaching.
While much of the world hailed Benedict's statement as a major shift toward lifting the church ban, conservatives insisted the pontiff was not "justifying" condom use from a theological point of view.
Many Vatican observers were struck by the example the pope used - that of a male prostitute - though the comments clearly were not meant to condone prostitution or homosexual conduct, which the church condemns as "intrinsically disordered."
And while Benedict made only a tiny opening, he stepped where no pope has gone since Pope Paul VI's 1968 encyclical "Humanae Vitae," which was supposed to have closed debate on church policy barring Catholics from using condoms and other artificial contraception.
Notably, the pope chose to make his statement in an interview with a German journalist, Peter Seewald, and not in an official document. Excerpts of Seewald's book, "Light of the World: The Pope, the Church and the Signs of the Times," first appeared Saturday in the Vatican newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano.
Luigi Accattoli, a veteran Vatican journalist who will be on a Vatican panel launching the book Tuesday, said Benedict had taken a "long-awaited" step that only the highest authority of the church could do."
Also on the panel is an influential prelate who showed his independence last year when he argued that Brazilian doctors should not be excommunicated for aborting the twin fetuses of a 9-year-old child who was allegedly raped by her stepfather. Monsignor Rino Fisichella argued the doctors were saving the girl's life and should be shown mercy; he was forced out as head of the Vatican's bioethics advisory committee for his stance.
The conservative Benedict previously had shown little sign of budging on the issue of condoms. Last year while en route to Africa, the continent hardest hit by HIV, he drew criticism from many health workers by saying condoms not only did not help stop the spread of AIDS but exacerbated the problem.
With Benedict prone to gaffes and crises - such as his remarks likening Islam to violence that caused a fury in the Muslin world and his lifting of the excommunication of a Holocaust-denier - some wondered whether it was again a communication problem.
However, Seewald wrote in the preface that Benedict had reviewed the text and made only small corrections. Seewald, who wrote two other books of interviews with Benedict while he was a cardinal, spent six hours over six days with Benedict at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo in July.
The German-born pope appears comfortable talking with his fellow countrymen. The only other interview the pope has given was to German television in 2006.
Beyond the debate within the Roman Catholic church on its condoms policy, it is unclear how much effect the shift could have on health policy in Africa.
Kevin O'Reilly, a World Health Organization AIDS expert in Geneva, said the pope's comments "will remove some barriers in Africa."
"The fact that the Vatican is demonstrating any flexibility at all, and is considering the real-world use of condoms, is encouraging," Kelly said.
"Some of the churches there have been actively campaigning against condom use," he added. "But I don't think there are a lot of people making decisions about condom use while worrying about what the Vatican is up to."
Still, Sister Christine Schenk, executive director of FutureChurch, a liberal church reform group in the United States, said the pope expressed a principle about the benefits of using condoms to prevent disease that could apply to women too.
"You can probably take from that example and extend that to other examples," Schenk said. "Clearly, there will be many women who will also be prevented from getting HIV if you look at the principle of what he said."
Just a year after he said condoms could be making the AIDS crisis worse, Benedict said that for some people, such as male prostitutes, using them could be a step in assuming moral responsibility because the intent is to "reduce the risk of infection."
The pope did not suggest using condoms as birth control, which is banned by the church, or mention the use of condoms by married couples where one partner is infected.
Still, some saw the pope's comments as an attempt to move the church forward on the issue of condoms and health risks.
For years, divisions in the Vatican have held up any effort to reconcile the church's ban on contraception with the need to help halt the spread of AIDS. Theologians have studied the possibility of condoning limited condom use as a lesser evil, and reports years ago said the Vatican was considering a document on the issue, though opposition apparently blocked publication.
One senior Vatican official said Monday he believed the pope just "wanted to kick-start the debate." He spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue.
For the deeply conservative Benedict, it seemed like a bold leap into modernity - and a nightmare for many at the Vatican. The pope's comments sparked a fierce debate among Catholics, politicians and health workers that is certain to reverberate for a long time despite frantic damage control at the Vatican.
In a sign of the tensions, the Holy See's chief spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, rushed out a statement to counter any impression the church might lift its ban on artificial birth control. Lombardi stressed the pope's comment neither "reforms nor changes" church teaching.
While much of the world hailed Benedict's statement as a major shift toward lifting the church ban, conservatives insisted the pontiff was not "justifying" condom use from a theological point of view.
Many Vatican observers were struck by the example the pope used - that of a male prostitute - though the comments clearly were not meant to condone prostitution or homosexual conduct, which the church condemns as "intrinsically disordered."
And while Benedict made only a tiny opening, he stepped where no pope has gone since Pope Paul VI's 1968 encyclical "Humanae Vitae," which was supposed to have closed debate on church policy barring Catholics from using condoms and other artificial contraception.
Notably, the pope chose to make his statement in an interview with a German journalist, Peter Seewald, and not in an official document. Excerpts of Seewald's book, "Light of the World: The Pope, the Church and the Signs of the Times," first appeared Saturday in the Vatican newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano.
Luigi Accattoli, a veteran Vatican journalist who will be on a Vatican panel launching the book Tuesday, said Benedict had taken a "long-awaited" step that only the highest authority of the church could do."
Also on the panel is an influential prelate who showed his independence last year when he argued that Brazilian doctors should not be excommunicated for aborting the twin fetuses of a 9-year-old child who was allegedly raped by her stepfather. Monsignor Rino Fisichella argued the doctors were saving the girl's life and should be shown mercy; he was forced out as head of the Vatican's bioethics advisory committee for his stance.
The conservative Benedict previously had shown little sign of budging on the issue of condoms. Last year while en route to Africa, the continent hardest hit by HIV, he drew criticism from many health workers by saying condoms not only did not help stop the spread of AIDS but exacerbated the problem.
With Benedict prone to gaffes and crises - such as his remarks likening Islam to violence that caused a fury in the Muslin world and his lifting of the excommunication of a Holocaust-denier - some wondered whether it was again a communication problem.
However, Seewald wrote in the preface that Benedict had reviewed the text and made only small corrections. Seewald, who wrote two other books of interviews with Benedict while he was a cardinal, spent six hours over six days with Benedict at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo in July.
The German-born pope appears comfortable talking with his fellow countrymen. The only other interview the pope has given was to German television in 2006.
Beyond the debate within the Roman Catholic church on its condoms policy, it is unclear how much effect the shift could have on health policy in Africa.
Kevin O'Reilly, a World Health Organization AIDS expert in Geneva, said the pope's comments "will remove some barriers in Africa."
"The fact that the Vatican is demonstrating any flexibility at all, and is considering the real-world use of condoms, is encouraging," Kelly said.
"Some of the churches there have been actively campaigning against condom use," he added. "But I don't think there are a lot of people making decisions about condom use while worrying about what the Vatican is up to."
Still, Sister Christine Schenk, executive director of FutureChurch, a liberal church reform group in the United States, said the pope expressed a principle about the benefits of using condoms to prevent disease that could apply to women too.
"You can probably take from that example and extend that to other examples," Schenk said. "Clearly, there will be many women who will also be prevented from getting HIV if you look at the principle of what he said."
Friday, November 26, 2010
High court refuses to block 'don't ask' discharges
The U.S. Supreme Court refused Friday to block the military from discharging openly gay service members while the Obama administration appeals a federal judge's ruling that declared the "don't ask, don't tell" law...
Pink?s new video for her single ?Raise Your...
Pink?s new video for her single ?Raise Your Glass? finally debuted. We
Transgender & Flying, TSA Pat Downs:
Interesting read Via, Lezgetreal.com. Personally I couldn't care, but I can understand how others in the community might feel offended... especially those pre-op. Of course this can all be avoided by placing odd objects in your undies just to mess with their minds: candles, gerbils, or midgets....Six months or so ago I wrote up a piece about these full body scanners and, quite frankly, this has just gotten worse. At this point, I?d rather walk to England than fly. For the transsexual, this is an absolute nightmare. These scanners, even in the ?new? form where all they do is show a highlighted box on a generic figure is going to pick up the presence of non-standard genitalia and breast forms. It is already bad enough that breast cancer survivors are going to have their prosthetics show up, but also any wigs that they wear.This goes for transgender flyers as well. How many are going to be given ?special? treatment when it is discovered that they still have a male genitalia instead of a surgically crafted vulva, or a vulva instead of a surgically crafted male genitalia? How many are going to be harassed because their bodies are not standard, and that is going to happen. Let us not kid ourselves, there are a lot of people out there who find the notion of a transperson to be a wonderful target for bullying.Then we get into body discomfort. For me, the idea of being touched by a stranger- female or male- is rather abhorrent. While I am better able to tolerate the touch of a strange woman over the touch of a strange man, once it is found out that I was not born a standard woman, will I be assigned a male screener instead of a female one to do the pat down? A strange man touching me, especially in the groin, is likely to cause a major panic attack and flashbacks of being molested. Even if a woman does it, it will be uncomfortable in the extreme especially since many women are not exactly too thrilled to touch a transwoman?s groin.The TSA has managed to make a complete mess of things without needing to. There is no need for this kind of screening. There are proven methods which would work a lot better than this will, but those are not the equivalent of throwing the nation?s collective dick on the table to prove ?ours? is bigger than Al-Qaida?s. This testosterone poisoned thinking which equates a bloated military with effectiveness, threats with action, and waste with efficiency is going to ruin the US at the rate that things are going.
Gay candidates for Congress draw interest, hope
PROVIDENCE (AP) – Laure Rondeau, an 82-year-old Catholic, supports Providence Mayor David Cicilline for Congress because he wants to get the troops out of Afghanistan and says Washington is losing sight of what’s happening to regular people.
The sexual orientation of the openly gay mayor doesn’t figure into her decision.
“That doesn’t bother me at all,” Rondeau says. “He’s been a good mayor of Providence, and I think he’d do well in Congress.”
Just three of the 535 members of Congress are openly gay, but two candidates hope to inch that number up to five this year: Cicilline, who is running to succeed fellow Democrat Patrick Kennedy, and Democrat Steve Pougnet, who’s trying to knock Republi…
Read More
The sexual orientation of the openly gay mayor doesn’t figure into her decision.
“That doesn’t bother me at all,” Rondeau says. “He’s been a good mayor of Providence, and I think he’d do well in Congress.”
Just three of the 535 members of Congress are openly gay, but two candidates hope to inch that number up to five this year: Cicilline, who is running to succeed fellow Democrat Patrick Kennedy, and Democrat Steve Pougnet, who’s trying to knock Republi…
Read More
Betts Sentencing: Gloria Allred to ask the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate Betts murder as a hate crime
News:One of the men charged in the murder of local gay principal Brian Betts, who was killed on April 15, was sentenced to 40 years in prison Tuesday, Nov. 23. According to WTOP.com, earlier this month Alante Saunders pleaded guilty to fatally shooting Betts at Betts's home. Others charged in the case include Deontra Gray, Joel Johnson and Sharif Lancaster. Lancaster, who pleaded guilty to charges of robbery and using a handgun during a felony, is scheduled to be sentenced ...more
New Lesbian Project for L Word's Chaiken
There's life after The L Word ? Ilene Chaiken, the creator of the
fictional series and its reality spin-off, is developing a scripted
show for CBS about a lesbian doctor.
fictional series and its reality spin-off, is developing a scripted
show for CBS about a lesbian doctor.
Family Research Council Demands Apology
The religious right organization calls for an apology after being called a "hate group"
Listen: Gay Grandma Tells Love Story
StoryCorps features a grandmother telling her granddaughter about falling in love with her partner.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
March to the polls on Nov. 2!
http://action.now.org/o/5996/t/0/blastContent.jsp?email_blast_KEY=87243Vote as if women's lives depend on it -- because they do! You've heard the buzz that women voters have given up and Democrats stand to lose this mid-term election. Take action, and prove them wrong!
Listen: Gay Grandma Tells Love Story
StoryCorps features a grandmother telling her granddaughter about falling in love with her partner.
(57) How Can a Fish Look Like a Horse? (mini)
King Nero Bloombucks, X the hunting … the abortion issues … oh and that whole anti-gay marriage issue, and it’s Palin Lust, Bruno, etctera
Senate to Hold DADT Hearings on Pentagon Report Next Week
The Senate Armed Services Committee is planning two days of hearings on December 2nd and 3rd regarding the Pentagon's report on repealing 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell', which is scheduled for release on Tuesday, the WaPo reports:
"The panel, led by Chairman Carl Levin (D-Mich.) and ranking member Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), will hear from Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates; Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Adm. Mike Mullen; and the co- chairmen of the Pentagon Working Group, Defense Department General Counsel Jeh Johnson and Army Gen. Carter Ham on Thursday. The next day, in a nod to McCain's wishes to hear from the military's top brass on the issue, the committee will hear testimony from Joint Chiefs of Staff Vice Chairman Gen. James E. Cartwright, Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr., Naval Chief of Operations Adm. Gary Roughhead, Marine Commandant Gen. James F. Amos and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton A. Schwartz."
Earlier...
Chris Johnson at the Washington Blade notes the tight timeframe on DADT repeal:
Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, said he?s ?hopeful? that Congress will be able to enact repeal, but acknowledged that ?the clock is our enemy.?
?I?m fearful of time running out on the bill before it?s finished or the prospects of strong opposition from a core group of senators who don?t want to see anything happen in the lame duck,? Sarvis said.
Debate on the defense authorization bill traditionally takes about two weeks in the Senate. Given that slightly more than one month remains in the legislative session this year, time for a debate and vote in the Senate ? as well as time for conferencing the legislation ? would have to be compressed to move forward.
And Americablog has posted an online 'open letter' to Obama, urging him to call Senators on 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'.
"The panel, led by Chairman Carl Levin (D-Mich.) and ranking member Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), will hear from Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates; Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Adm. Mike Mullen; and the co- chairmen of the Pentagon Working Group, Defense Department General Counsel Jeh Johnson and Army Gen. Carter Ham on Thursday. The next day, in a nod to McCain's wishes to hear from the military's top brass on the issue, the committee will hear testimony from Joint Chiefs of Staff Vice Chairman Gen. James E. Cartwright, Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr., Naval Chief of Operations Adm. Gary Roughhead, Marine Commandant Gen. James F. Amos and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton A. Schwartz."
Earlier...
Chris Johnson at the Washington Blade notes the tight timeframe on DADT repeal:
Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, said he?s ?hopeful? that Congress will be able to enact repeal, but acknowledged that ?the clock is our enemy.?
?I?m fearful of time running out on the bill before it?s finished or the prospects of strong opposition from a core group of senators who don?t want to see anything happen in the lame duck,? Sarvis said.
Debate on the defense authorization bill traditionally takes about two weeks in the Senate. Given that slightly more than one month remains in the legislative session this year, time for a debate and vote in the Senate ? as well as time for conferencing the legislation ? would have to be compressed to move forward.
And Americablog has posted an online 'open letter' to Obama, urging him to call Senators on 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'.
An interview with Elizabeth Keener
While The L Word may be long gone from the airwaves, its cast members continue to be big draws at Club Skirts The Dinah, as Elizabeth Keener found out this past weekend when she faced a constant barrage of fans seeking autographs and photos at the Palm Springs, Calif., event.
AfterEllen.com caught up with Keener, who was attending her third Dinah and first without The L Word to promote, to talk about Dawn Denbo's legacy, The Real L Word: Los Angeles and her three upcoming projects.
AfterEllen.com: Is it strange to be at Dinah without The L Word?
Elizabeth Keener: This is my third Dinah. At the first two, I was doing L Word stuff, this one, I told Mariah I would do some stuff for fun ? autographs and things because I love Mariah [Hanson].
AE: How does it feel to still be associated with Dawn Denbo? Does it ever get old?
EK: No, I love it. The L Word was really breakthrough television ? none of my doing, it was all way before I got there ? and I played one of the best characters, in my opinion, of that series. I got so lucky.
read more
AfterEllen.com caught up with Keener, who was attending her third Dinah and first without The L Word to promote, to talk about Dawn Denbo's legacy, The Real L Word: Los Angeles and her three upcoming projects.
AfterEllen.com: Is it strange to be at Dinah without The L Word?
Elizabeth Keener: This is my third Dinah. At the first two, I was doing L Word stuff, this one, I told Mariah I would do some stuff for fun ? autographs and things because I love Mariah [Hanson].
AE: How does it feel to still be associated with Dawn Denbo? Does it ever get old?
EK: No, I love it. The L Word was really breakthrough television ? none of my doing, it was all way before I got there ? and I played one of the best characters, in my opinion, of that series. I got so lucky.
read more
(70) What the Hell is Going On?
Miley Cyrus, Tammy & Melissa Lesbalimony, Opinions and what do they really mean?, The Definition of a Lesbian conclusion via Twitter, The Real L Word, Julianne Moore in Kids Are Alright is gonna learn right here and right now that Lesbians are not bisexual. Somebody has to tell us what in the gay hell is [...]
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Bishops elect new president; LGBTs, nuns respond
The executive director of the National Organization for Marriage wasted no time in soliciting funds for the nation's leading anti gay-marriage group at also trumpeting recent developments at a gathering of Catholic Church hierarchy.
Best of Nelly Furtado
Multi-platinum-selling,
Grammy-winning global superstar, actress, philanthropist and recent Canadian ?Walk of Fame? inductee, Nelly Furtado, will celebrate her first 10 years of recording with her first greatest hits compilation, The Best Of Nelly Furtado (Geffen Records). The album, to be released November 16th, features #1 Pop smashes, collaborations and three previously unreleased recordings and will be available in standard and double-disc deluxe editions.
Of the previously unreleased recordings, ?Night Is Young,? the album?s first single, was co-produced by Salaam Remi (Nas, The Fugees, Amy Winehouse) and Staybent Krunk-A-Delic, and co-written by Nelly Furtado. Producer Remi and Furtado also co-wrote ?Girlfriend? while ?Stars,? was produced by Lester Mendez who co-wrote the track with Furtado.
The Best Of Nelly Furtado looks back at a simply sensational and genuinely global first decade for the acclaimed Canadian-born singer-songwriter of Portuguese heritage.
A video for ?Night Is Young ? can be seen now.
Furtado?s highly anticipated fifth original album will be released in early 2011.
Nelly Furtado.com
GET IT NOW! Single Disc Best of Nelly Furtado
or the special 2 disc set Best of Nelly Furtado
Best Gay News
Grammy-winning global superstar, actress, philanthropist and recent Canadian ?Walk of Fame? inductee, Nelly Furtado, will celebrate her first 10 years of recording with her first greatest hits compilation, The Best Of Nelly Furtado (Geffen Records). The album, to be released November 16th, features #1 Pop smashes, collaborations and three previously unreleased recordings and will be available in standard and double-disc deluxe editions.
Of the previously unreleased recordings, ?Night Is Young,? the album?s first single, was co-produced by Salaam Remi (Nas, The Fugees, Amy Winehouse) and Staybent Krunk-A-Delic, and co-written by Nelly Furtado. Producer Remi and Furtado also co-wrote ?Girlfriend? while ?Stars,? was produced by Lester Mendez who co-wrote the track with Furtado.
The Best Of Nelly Furtado looks back at a simply sensational and genuinely global first decade for the acclaimed Canadian-born singer-songwriter of Portuguese heritage.
A video for ?Night Is Young ? can be seen now.
Furtado?s highly anticipated fifth original album will be released in early 2011.
Nelly Furtado.com
GET IT NOW! Single Disc Best of Nelly Furtado
or the special 2 disc set Best of Nelly Furtado
Best Gay News
Mullen Named to GQ Men of the Year
Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has been named a GQ man of the year for testimony that accelerated the process of "don't ask, don't tell" repeal.
Meghan McCain: NO DADT Talk on Thanksgiving
Meghan McCain, an outspoken proponent of "don't ask, don't tell" repeal, said that she and her parents would not discuss their political differences over Thanksgiving dinner.
(65) ?Outrage? Director Kirby Dick
Interview with prolific filmmaker Kirby Dick on his controversial movie Outrage, which outs closeted gay politicians who vote to pass anti-gay legislation. His film SICK (1997) won the Special Jury Prize at Sundance and the Grand Prize at the Los Angeles Film Festival. Dick also directed the controversial TWIST OF FAITH (2005), a film about [...]
Oh yes. Shred him, sister.
Subway Flasher Messes With The Wrong Woman Jezebel: Watch this woman eviscerate a man who pressed up against her on an uncrowded New York subway ? with his penis exposed, apparently clad in a condom. Via the ladies of HollabackNYC comes this video of a righteously angry woman who refuses to be cowed by the [...]
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Is it harder for teens or adults to come out?
Coming out to your loved ones is a hard thing to do for most gay, lesbian or bisexual people because you never know how they will react.
Every coming out is different. It can be easy and without any problems, but it can also be very painful. It might improve some of your relationships to others, but it might also be the reason for losing someone as a friend.
Either way, it usually doesn’t happen without a lot of thinking beforehand. But for whom is it harder to face the decision of coming out; teenagers or adults?
When I came out to my family, I was 16. Back then I already knew for two years that I was definitely a lesbian. Nevertheless, I was worried that I might not be taken seriously, especially since I didn’t have a girlfriend at the time. I think one of the biggest problems gay teenagers have today, is that they are not being taken seriously. Parents come up with the argument that it’s just a phase, that their kids have to experiment and that they will eventually become ‘normal’, meaning heterosexual, again. Many teenagers, gay or straight, have a hard time already with accepting themselves, discovering who they really are, confiding in their own wishes and choices. But it’s even harder when you finally find the strength and courage to come out and then find out you’re not being taken seriously. It undermines the knowledge of yourself.
Adults usually don’t have that problem. While getting older, most people learn more about themselves, become more confident and generally strengthen their self-awareness. When you already know how to be true to yourself, it’s also easier to be open about your sexuality to others. In my opinion that’s a big advantage adults have over teenagers.
But is it therefore easier for them to come out? I don’t really know. Older generations have problems of their own regarding this topic. Today, being gay, lesbian or bisexual is accepted a lot better than some decades ago. But while the older generations were growing up, homosexuality was still a taboo topic. Something that was seen as ‘abnormal’ and that you by no means wanted to be. So many gay, lesbian or bisexual people suppressed their true feelings and married a partner of the opposite sex, had children and adjusted themselves to society as well as possible, disregarding their own happiness. They lived their whole lives this way and only now discover that they could have it otherwise. But that would mean a big change. It would mean telling all of your friends and family that your whole former life was a delusion. For some it would mean telling your spouse and children that you married for different reasons than they believed all of the time. It is a big decision to make and definitely not an easy one.
Coming back to the problems a teen has, I’d say we can’t ignore the peer pressure many young people are subject to. In my experience, there are many teens who are only looking for someone to bully for whatever reasons. For many teenagers friends are more important than family and they would do anything just to keep their friendships alive. Losing your friends would mean being alone, having to face problems you can’t talk about to your parents or siblings on your own. That would reduce some teens to despair. I guess that’s the main reason many teenagers hide their real sexuality from their friends.
Adults, on the other hand, will probably already have seen that life goes on, even when you lose some friends, and that for every friend you lose there are others that will love you for who you are.
<!--pagebreak-->
What could also be a big concern for teenagers is that they are often quite dependent of their parents. There is always the possibility that your parents won’t know how to deal with your homosexuality and that they will throw you out. Even if it’s not that likely, I do understand that many could fear exactly that. But if you are an adult who already makes a living on his or her own, this is nothing you have to worry about.
Looking at all of these aspects, I can’t really decide for whom it is easier to come out. Most of the time it’s a hard but necessary step for everyone if you want to go on and live a happy life. I can only imagine that it might seem harder to a teen to come out because he or she mostly looks at what’s going to happen now and not in the long run, while adults might see it from a more reasoned point of view.
Of course it always depends on your surroundings and it is definitely easier to come out today than it was, let’s say, thirty to forty years ago. But what do you think, who has it easier? Younger or older generations? Leave your comments below.
[© Kurt Löwenstein Educational Center International Team for the article image.]
Every coming out is different. It can be easy and without any problems, but it can also be very painful. It might improve some of your relationships to others, but it might also be the reason for losing someone as a friend.
Either way, it usually doesn’t happen without a lot of thinking beforehand. But for whom is it harder to face the decision of coming out; teenagers or adults?
When I came out to my family, I was 16. Back then I already knew for two years that I was definitely a lesbian. Nevertheless, I was worried that I might not be taken seriously, especially since I didn’t have a girlfriend at the time. I think one of the biggest problems gay teenagers have today, is that they are not being taken seriously. Parents come up with the argument that it’s just a phase, that their kids have to experiment and that they will eventually become ‘normal’, meaning heterosexual, again. Many teenagers, gay or straight, have a hard time already with accepting themselves, discovering who they really are, confiding in their own wishes and choices. But it’s even harder when you finally find the strength and courage to come out and then find out you’re not being taken seriously. It undermines the knowledge of yourself.
Adults usually don’t have that problem. While getting older, most people learn more about themselves, become more confident and generally strengthen their self-awareness. When you already know how to be true to yourself, it’s also easier to be open about your sexuality to others. In my opinion that’s a big advantage adults have over teenagers.
But is it therefore easier for them to come out? I don’t really know. Older generations have problems of their own regarding this topic. Today, being gay, lesbian or bisexual is accepted a lot better than some decades ago. But while the older generations were growing up, homosexuality was still a taboo topic. Something that was seen as ‘abnormal’ and that you by no means wanted to be. So many gay, lesbian or bisexual people suppressed their true feelings and married a partner of the opposite sex, had children and adjusted themselves to society as well as possible, disregarding their own happiness. They lived their whole lives this way and only now discover that they could have it otherwise. But that would mean a big change. It would mean telling all of your friends and family that your whole former life was a delusion. For some it would mean telling your spouse and children that you married for different reasons than they believed all of the time. It is a big decision to make and definitely not an easy one.
Coming back to the problems a teen has, I’d say we can’t ignore the peer pressure many young people are subject to. In my experience, there are many teens who are only looking for someone to bully for whatever reasons. For many teenagers friends are more important than family and they would do anything just to keep their friendships alive. Losing your friends would mean being alone, having to face problems you can’t talk about to your parents or siblings on your own. That would reduce some teens to despair. I guess that’s the main reason many teenagers hide their real sexuality from their friends.
Adults, on the other hand, will probably already have seen that life goes on, even when you lose some friends, and that for every friend you lose there are others that will love you for who you are.
<!--pagebreak-->
What could also be a big concern for teenagers is that they are often quite dependent of their parents. There is always the possibility that your parents won’t know how to deal with your homosexuality and that they will throw you out. Even if it’s not that likely, I do understand that many could fear exactly that. But if you are an adult who already makes a living on his or her own, this is nothing you have to worry about.
Looking at all of these aspects, I can’t really decide for whom it is easier to come out. Most of the time it’s a hard but necessary step for everyone if you want to go on and live a happy life. I can only imagine that it might seem harder to a teen to come out because he or she mostly looks at what’s going to happen now and not in the long run, while adults might see it from a more reasoned point of view.
Of course it always depends on your surroundings and it is definitely easier to come out today than it was, let’s say, thirty to forty years ago. But what do you think, who has it easier? Younger or older generations? Leave your comments below.
[© Kurt Löwenstein Educational Center International Team for the article image.]
Horoscope
Breathe, Aries!
Saturn in Libra is squaring the lunar nodes, showing necessary steps in the relationships that are most important in our life’s lessons. Mars is in Scorpio, offering insights to those problems, but those insights can feel more urgent and be more complex and distracting than strictly helpful.
ARIES
March 20 – April 19
Your control issues can wreck your relationship. Step back. Breathe. Be responsible for yourself, and let your partner do the same. Domestic issues are an easy distraction. Work is where you need to focus your energies and sense of mastery.
TAURUS
April 20 – May 20
You’re fine on the details; don’t worry about those! Work on seeing the big picture. There, you need some help that you’ll …
Read More
Saturn in Libra is squaring the lunar nodes, showing necessary steps in the relationships that are most important in our life’s lessons. Mars is in Scorpio, offering insights to those problems, but those insights can feel more urgent and be more complex and distracting than strictly helpful.
ARIES
March 20 – April 19
Your control issues can wreck your relationship. Step back. Breathe. Be responsible for yourself, and let your partner do the same. Domestic issues are an easy distraction. Work is where you need to focus your energies and sense of mastery.
TAURUS
April 20 – May 20
You’re fine on the details; don’t worry about those! Work on seeing the big picture. There, you need some help that you’ll …
Read More
Support rises for civil unions for gay couples
An increasing majority of Americans favors allowing same-sex couples to obtain most of the same rights as married straight couples, but only 39 percent support legalization of same-sex marriage, according to a poll...
Action on Civil Unions in Illinois
HRC interns and volunteers were busy making hundreds of phone calls and mobilizing our members in key state house districts to contact their legislators to pass the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act (SB 1716).
How would YOU live if you couldn't love?
How would YOU live
if you couldn't love?
Rachel Diana is the Producer at WingSpan pictures Production Company.
" I am an out and proud lesbian. I was so affected by the teen suicides that I had my company do something about it.
"Imagine a World where "GAY" was considered "STRAIGHT" and "STRAIGHT" was "GAY"...
Thats the premise of the film. Its based on bullying. Please check out this link for more info.
Just imagine...
... Imagine a world where 'Straight' was considered 'gay' - and 'gay' was 'straight'
... A world where it was taboo for a woman and a man to fall in love
... A world where 'same sex marriage' was the only way in which society would permit you to love.
... A world where who you love defines who you are.
"Love is All You Need?" tells the story of Ashley, a young teen who is raised in the 'picture perfect all-American family' -- with two moms, two grandpas, two uncles, and a little brother...
But Ashley has a problem -- she has a crush on a boy at school..., which is against everything this world has ever taught her. This undeniable attraction to the opposite sex causes her to be the constant target of verbal and physical abuse until she is driven to a tragic end.
This film challenges our current conceptions of these phrases by switching, not only their meanings, but also the culturally instigated conditions that are commonly paired with the phrases; like suicide in response to bullying.
WingSpan Pictures produced this video in hopes gather interest in helping tell this story.
It's a story that MUST be told, and time is running out to help!
Go to Love is All You Need to see how you can get involved with this groundbreaking project.
Best Gay News
if you couldn't love?
Rachel Diana is the Producer at WingSpan pictures Production Company.
" I am an out and proud lesbian. I was so affected by the teen suicides that I had my company do something about it.
"Imagine a World where "GAY" was considered "STRAIGHT" and "STRAIGHT" was "GAY"...
Thats the premise of the film. Its based on bullying. Please check out this link for more info.
Just imagine...
... Imagine a world where 'Straight' was considered 'gay' - and 'gay' was 'straight'
... A world where it was taboo for a woman and a man to fall in love
... A world where 'same sex marriage' was the only way in which society would permit you to love.
... A world where who you love defines who you are.
"Love is All You Need?" tells the story of Ashley, a young teen who is raised in the 'picture perfect all-American family' -- with two moms, two grandpas, two uncles, and a little brother...
But Ashley has a problem -- she has a crush on a boy at school..., which is against everything this world has ever taught her. This undeniable attraction to the opposite sex causes her to be the constant target of verbal and physical abuse until she is driven to a tragic end.
This film challenges our current conceptions of these phrases by switching, not only their meanings, but also the culturally instigated conditions that are commonly paired with the phrases; like suicide in response to bullying.
WingSpan Pictures produced this video in hopes gather interest in helping tell this story.
It's a story that MUST be told, and time is running out to help!
Go to Love is All You Need to see how you can get involved with this groundbreaking project.
Best Gay News
Oscar buzz builds for "The Kids Are All Right"
A well-reviewed feature film about two lesbians raising a family may have a chance at winning an Oscar during the upcoming aw -More-
The perfect mix
DJ ELVEE spells it out
ELVEE, a San Diego native, is the resident DJ for girl’s night at Bourbon Street and has been there for six years. On Sunday nights you can find her in the DJ booth at the front right corner of the dance floor. With all the great music it is almost easy to forget that she is the catalyst that is helping you forget about your nine to five, suit and tie or blue and browns. I met with ELVEE recently at Bourbon Street and we seized an opportunity for a little Q and A.
GLT: What made you want to become a DJ?
LV: I actually fell into it through another DJ. A DJ named DJ Dallas who was very popular in the older community, and she still does work as a DJ. She was very instrumental as far as teaching me about my equipment and how to use the equipment to auto…
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ELVEE, a San Diego native, is the resident DJ for girl’s night at Bourbon Street and has been there for six years. On Sunday nights you can find her in the DJ booth at the front right corner of the dance floor. With all the great music it is almost easy to forget that she is the catalyst that is helping you forget about your nine to five, suit and tie or blue and browns. I met with ELVEE recently at Bourbon Street and we seized an opportunity for a little Q and A.
GLT: What made you want to become a DJ?
LV: I actually fell into it through another DJ. A DJ named DJ Dallas who was very popular in the older community, and she still does work as a DJ. She was very instrumental as far as teaching me about my equipment and how to use the equipment to auto…
Read More | View Comments (5 comments)
Monday, November 22, 2010
LGBT Community Marches in the Bronx to Stop Hate
On Saturday, dozens of supporters and members of the LGBT community rallied in the Bronx with the goal of stopping hate. They marched for 2.5 miles to the building where the recent Bronx hate crimes occurred to stop and pray. Reverend Carman Hernandez participated in the event and commented, "It's not acceptable. Hate crimes, bigotry, bullying--all the negativity. It's not acceptable." Another marcher, Antonio Centano commented, "For so long the Bronx has been very quiet about LGBT issues. This particular event sparked the feeling to do something and how you do it--you do it in unity." Related Media Coverage: CBS New York - November 20, 2010 "LGBT Community Rallies in the Bronx" http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2010/11/20/lgbt-community-rallies-in-the-bronx/
Bert is not gay - say Sesame Streets producers
Apparently the use of the word Mo in reference to Bert does not mean he is gay. Mo is a derogatory US word used to refer to gays as well as hairstyles. The LA Times says the reference is about the hairstyle and not the sexuality (of a puppet)!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Stale Air: The past year has shown our government is incapable of dealing rationally with gay lives and issues
Opinion: So, here's what I've been struggling with lately: I'm 42 at the moment and will all-too-soon turn 43. It's not my age that's nagging me — I've long since learned that given the history of humanity, growing older in relative comfort is something to be prized as a luxury rather than feared. What's nagging is my experience. I've been out of the closet as a gay man for more than two decades. As is the vogue thing to say these days, things do get better. I've watched as they have in my own life and as they have for others. I came of age in the late '80s and early '90s, when things seemed far more grim for gay men, when the culture wars were being fought with a virulence that would seem out of place in today's political climate where even anti-gay politicians often feel the need cloak themselves in the language of ''tolerance.'' ... (more)
Lesbian News - 11 Nov 2010
Gay pride parade: 1000 march together in Argentina
Gays and lesbians stage kiss-in protest during Pope?s visit
The gay father, the lesbian partners and a battle over the future of two children
Lesbian mothers seek full custody
RI educators hold online anti-bullying forum
Fugitive Ex-Lesbian Mom Lisa Miller is Denied Appeal by US Supreme Court
SMU student senate may revisit creation of seat for gay, lesbian students
Gay ??and lesbian wedding expo slated for JW Marriott
'Dancing with the Stars' first same-sex couple
Buenos Aires celebrates Pride Day in Argentine fashion
Gays and lesbians stage kiss-in protest during Pope?s visit
The gay father, the lesbian partners and a battle over the future of two children
Lesbian mothers seek full custody
RI educators hold online anti-bullying forum
Fugitive Ex-Lesbian Mom Lisa Miller is Denied Appeal by US Supreme Court
SMU student senate may revisit creation of seat for gay, lesbian students
Gay ??and lesbian wedding expo slated for JW Marriott
'Dancing with the Stars' first same-sex couple
Buenos Aires celebrates Pride Day in Argentine fashion
Diocese honors Garcia, others
The Evangelical Catholic Diocese of the Northwest honored several individuals Nov. 13 during its annual Bishop's Dinner and Awards Ceremony at the Pastoral Center of Atonement. Among the 11 honorees were Equality Illinois' Rick Garcia and Rep. John A. Fritchey, who has served in the Illinois State legislature since 1996.
VIEWS What's the matter with... HBHC?
Howard Brown Health Center HBHC, formerly Howard Brown Memorial Clinic has been a very difficult Chicago LGBT agency to cover over the years. I started reporting about their work in 1984 when I first started as a writer at GayLife newspaper. The clinic had been in place since the 1970s as a health service provider, and research center, but with the start of the AIDS epidemic, it necessarily shifted its focus to this crisis.
Civil Rights in the Digital Domain
Big business special interests have proven to be the proverbial wolf in sheep's clothing of the new world order.
Let me count the profiteering ways.
The unfettered greed of Wall Street crippled America's Main Street, a domino effect contributing to global recession. Big Health insurance led by #1 United Health and its conservative lobbyists distorted facts, spread falsehoods and instigated near riot conditions from Town Hall meetings to Capitol Hill. It was a calculated, covert strategy of fear, employing everyday Americans to kill the health care bill. Reform intended to benefit them most.
The strategy worked. A disenfranchised and misinformed middle class rallied to dilute the positive impact of legitimate health care reform.
Now Big Telecom is successfully employing the same tactic, exploiting the very people it allegedly serves.
Continue reading "Civil Rights in the Digital Domain"...
Let me count the profiteering ways.
The unfettered greed of Wall Street crippled America's Main Street, a domino effect contributing to global recession. Big Health insurance led by #1 United Health and its conservative lobbyists distorted facts, spread falsehoods and instigated near riot conditions from Town Hall meetings to Capitol Hill. It was a calculated, covert strategy of fear, employing everyday Americans to kill the health care bill. Reform intended to benefit them most.
The strategy worked. A disenfranchised and misinformed middle class rallied to dilute the positive impact of legitimate health care reform.
Now Big Telecom is successfully employing the same tactic, exploiting the very people it allegedly serves.
Continue reading "Civil Rights in the Digital Domain"...
Rememer the time: World Aids Day 2010
From vigils to concerts, Sydney will be marking World AIDS Day in a variety of ways. Reg Domingo reports.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
TRAVEL: CANADA Victoria, B.C.: Where east meets west
In early September, my partner and I visited Vancouver to explore British Columbia. While there I insisted that we travel to the elegant city of Victoria to retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life to be embraced by the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Coast.
Castro Street fair a G-rated family reunion
Castro Street rolled out its version of a G-rated neighborhood street fair Sunday, complete with a Jackson 5 cover band and origami contests. There were even a few children in attendance. "It's a joyous celebration of...
How Is A Same Sex Wedding Different Than A Gay or Lesbian Marriage?
When my partner and I got "married" back in 1999, we began by calling our event a "union." And, we would occasionally refer to it as a "commitment ceremony." These were the terms the GLBT community had for its partnership rituals back in the 20th century. (Seems like a long time ago, doesn't it?)
read more
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Long Beach Lesbian Sex Protest�
Some Cal State Long Beach students weren?t happy with the theater
department's decision to ax the word "tribades" from the marquee
advertising the play The Night of the Tribades. So 24 of them
lay down in front of the school?s Brotman Hall earlier this week in
protest ? and showed passersby how to ?scissor.?
department's decision to ax the word "tribades" from the marquee
advertising the play The Night of the Tribades. So 24 of them
lay down in front of the school?s Brotman Hall earlier this week in
protest ? and showed passersby how to ?scissor.?
Whoa...
Ok this chick makes me wanna slap somebody:It's 1:30am and I've been riding the wave of another night of insomnia. Listened to a lot of great signed musicians tonight, and then came across Jhoanna in the home stretch. What I've figured out with my spidey sense so far is that she's 21, she's Australian (whoop whoop) and she's some sort of Advertising major at uni. Only beef I have with this cover is that she messed up the words a couple of few times, but I really only noticed that because I've listened to the original song and the Paramore cover approx 4,000 times.There's a raw talent (if not technically perfect...something better) and a quality to her voice that is ridiculous to me. It's so FIRE. Goodness. Ok I'm sleepy and loopy so I should stop here.You can find Jhoanna Marie on her site at http://jhoannamarieaguila.wordpress.com/. Tell her Arlan sent you. And also tell her to marry me. G'night/G'day.
Conversations with Nicole
In past columns in the last few years I have written about the issue of Bullying in our schools many times…I hope and pray that now all Americans….especially our community has awoken to this crisis. In one of my past columns I wrote that if “only1/4” of the energy, money, time that has been spent on Marriage Equality and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was focused on GLBT suicides and bullying this issue would have gotten further…we must make our GLBT youth/students who are coming out every day at younger ages our community’s No. 1 PRIORITY!
Take a stand against School Bullying: October 17
San Diegans will be coming together on Sunday, October 17 to take a united stand against all bullying…this …
Read More | View Comments (8 comments)
Take a stand against School Bullying: October 17
San Diegans will be coming together on Sunday, October 17 to take a united stand against all bullying…this …
Read More | View Comments (8 comments)
Pageant Crown Dedicated to Antibullying Campaign
The new Miss California Teen USA crown, inspired by the natural beauty of the Golden State, has been dedicated to the Love Is Louder campaign against bullying.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
TSA screenings will end up a 'ripped from the headlines' episode of SVU
Some of these stories about "enhanced patdowns" are just unbelievable. It doesn't matter who seems to be in charge, Dem or GOP, our civil liberties in the name of safety are shrinking by the day as our government has licensed what amounts to sexual assault to go on in our nation's airports. Read this horror story -- a TSA agent apparently didn't see the need to inform one passenger about the way-too-intimate feel-up she was about to receive.
She patted my left arm, my right arm, my upper back and my lower back. She then said, "I need to reach in and feel along the inside of your waistband."
She felt along my waistline, moved behind me, then proceeded to feel both of my buttocks. She reached from behind in the middle of my buttocks towards my vagina area.
She did not tell me that she was going to touch my buttocks, or reach forward to my vagina area.
She then moved in front of my and touched the top and underneath portions of both of my breasts.
She did not tell me that she was going to touch my breasts.
She then felt around my waist. She then moved to the bottoms of my legs.
She then felt my inner thighs and my vagina area, touching both of my labia.
She did not tell me that she was going to touch my vagina area or my labia.
She then told me that I could put my shoes on and I asked if I could pick up the baby, she replied Yes.
You have to read the whole thing (and try to keep from getting even more enraged). Of course pilots and other members of the flight crew had been subject to the same indignities -- until Friday.
U.S. airline pilots learned today that they'll be exempt from the invasive x-ray screening and pat-downs that have sparked a revolt across the country.
...Pilots in uniform on airline business will be allowed to pass through airport security by showing two photo IDs. The identification will be cross-checked against a flight crew database.
The decision comes after pilots' unions had called on members to avoid going through the advanced x-ray screeners that produce full-body images, and they had also expressed concerns about enhanced pat-downs. A handful of pilots have said they were so traumatized by the searches that they couldn't perform their duties, though critics have accused them of making such claims to push a political agenda.
I have no problem with well-trained TSA agents who explain what techniques they are about to use, and give passengers any and all options/alternatives. After all, they aren't making the rules, just enforcing them. I happen to think these techniques are too invasive, but am I going to stop flying? Probably not. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't complain about the casual invasion of our privacy for what amounts to a security pantomime. I don't think it is going to make flying any safer, only more contentious for all involved.
She patted my left arm, my right arm, my upper back and my lower back. She then said, "I need to reach in and feel along the inside of your waistband."
She felt along my waistline, moved behind me, then proceeded to feel both of my buttocks. She reached from behind in the middle of my buttocks towards my vagina area.
She did not tell me that she was going to touch my buttocks, or reach forward to my vagina area.
She then moved in front of my and touched the top and underneath portions of both of my breasts.
She did not tell me that she was going to touch my breasts.
She then felt around my waist. She then moved to the bottoms of my legs.
She then felt my inner thighs and my vagina area, touching both of my labia.
She did not tell me that she was going to touch my vagina area or my labia.
She then told me that I could put my shoes on and I asked if I could pick up the baby, she replied Yes.
You have to read the whole thing (and try to keep from getting even more enraged). Of course pilots and other members of the flight crew had been subject to the same indignities -- until Friday.
U.S. airline pilots learned today that they'll be exempt from the invasive x-ray screening and pat-downs that have sparked a revolt across the country.
...Pilots in uniform on airline business will be allowed to pass through airport security by showing two photo IDs. The identification will be cross-checked against a flight crew database.
The decision comes after pilots' unions had called on members to avoid going through the advanced x-ray screeners that produce full-body images, and they had also expressed concerns about enhanced pat-downs. A handful of pilots have said they were so traumatized by the searches that they couldn't perform their duties, though critics have accused them of making such claims to push a political agenda.
I have no problem with well-trained TSA agents who explain what techniques they are about to use, and give passengers any and all options/alternatives. After all, they aren't making the rules, just enforcing them. I happen to think these techniques are too invasive, but am I going to stop flying? Probably not. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't complain about the casual invasion of our privacy for what amounts to a security pantomime. I don't think it is going to make flying any safer, only more contentious for all involved.
Ruling in Maine School Sets Precedent
A ruling by the Maine Human Rights Commission on September 20 is now compelling other schools across the state to examine how they accommodate transgender students. The ruling stated that a middle school in Orono discriminated against a transgender girl by not allowing her to use the girls? bathroom. Dr. James Morse, a Portland, Maine, superintendent, notes that there are transgender students of all ages at various schools in the state and that they are successful in his school system. Sarah Holmes of the Center for Sexuality and Diversity commented on the Sept. 20 ruling that, ?This student identifies as a girl, dresses as a girl, is perceived by her classmates as a girl,? and believes that transgender issues should be addressed earlier because there is growing awareness and support. There are currently no state policy guidelines for schools regarding transgender students, and Morse says this needs to change.Related Media Coverage:Necn.com ? October 1, 2010?Transgender Ruling Will Affect Maine Schools?http://www.necn.com/09/30/10/Transgender-ruling-will-affect-Maine-sch/landing_newengland.html?blockID=322010&feedID=4206
Soldiers arrested for shooting gay man in Rio de Janeiro
-More- 26th International Gay & Lesbian Leadership Conference December 2-5, 2010 | Washington, D.C.
Openly LGBT elected and appointed officials and other public leaders from around the world will gather at the 26th International Gay & Lesbian Leadership Conference to continue our tradition of building connections, exchanging ideas and developing leadership skills.
Register now while early bird discounts are still in effect. After you register, hurry to book your room at the Mayflower Hotel. We'll send you a special conference code good for a limited number of discounted rooms.
Openly LGBT elected and appointed officials and other public leaders from around the world will gather at the 26th International Gay & Lesbian Leadership Conference to continue our tradition of building connections, exchanging ideas and developing leadership skills.
Register now while early bird discounts are still in effect. After you register, hurry to book your room at the Mayflower Hotel. We'll send you a special conference code good for a limited number of discounted rooms.
The arguments against repealing DADT rooted in outlandish fear and homophobia
crossposted on Holy Bullies and Headless MonstersIn the fight to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell, the argument of the lgbt community has been consistent. Sexual orientation should not be used a criteria to keep people from serving their country. Lgbts can and have served in the military admirably and should not have to lie to continue to do so. Now on the other side of the fence, the arguments of those who want to keep DADT (or keep lgbts out of the military altogether) have ranged from distortions to downright outrageous lies. Let's look at the top five: 5. Gays will go "rape crazy" on military men - This year, discredited researcher Paul Cameron actually had the audacity to come out with a "study" claiming that gays are four to seven more times likely to rape their fellow servicemen. He even says that some perpetrators of heterosexual sex assaults can be termed as gay because apparently some gay men "like women too." Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council, while saying nothing about Cameron's phony study, actually echoed its main points: Our military exists to fight and win wars, not engage in radical social engineering. Forcing soldiers to cohabit with people who view them as sexual objects would inevitably lead to increased sexual tension, sexual harassment, and even sexual assault. 4. Heterosexuals will abandon the military if DADT is repealed - Last year, The Military Times came out with a survey claiming that a majority of respondents (58%) said they opposed openly gay service and 10% said they would not re-enlist if the ban was lifted. However, the Palm Center and Gary Langer who headed polling for ABC News skewered the survey for numerous errors. Robert Knight of the right-wing Coral Ridge Ministries earlier this year said the following: " . . .25 percent of people in the military have said they'll either resign or they wouldn't re-enlist. It would hurt recruitment because the military draws from traditional populations that have very traditional values. It would hurt unit cohesion." However, it was discovered that the poll he was citing was nonexistent. Knight's claim originated from a quote by World Net Daily writer Mychal Massie. World Net Daily is a publication not necessarily know for its credibility. Amongst other things, it pushes the belief that President Obama is not a United States citizen. 3. Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal will lead to the draft, forced abortions, pansexual cross-dressing, forced abortions - Robert Knight again: Forcing open homosexuality on the armed forces would destroy the volunteer military and bring back the compulsory draft. Since women are now deployed close to combat, and the only legal reason they are not eligible is their combat exemption, a new draft could include our daughters. And some would face pressure to have on-base abortions in order to complete their tours of duty. Chaplains would be the first victims of Mr. Obama's homosexualization of the military, followed by anyone who violated "zero tolerance" policies for homosexual acceptance. Bible-believing Christians would quickly find themselves unwelcome in Barney Frank's new pansexual, cross-dressing military. Other fallout includes family housing, reduction in retention, recruitment and unit cohesion, an increase in homosexual sexual assaults and a boost to overturning the federal Defense of Marriage Act. Can you believe that? He forgot the wanton cannibalism. 2. Gays in the military will lead to increased diseases - Earlier this year, a right-wing group, America's Survival, put out a video claiming that gays serving openly in the military will lead to an increase in diseases like AIDS. The video was so offensive that it was removed from youtube. America's Survival is led by Cliff Kincaid, head of the right-wing group Accuracy In Media. Kincaid and AIM has a long history of smearing the gay community. Earlier this year, AIM was forced to retract a story on its web page which inaccurately accused Obama appointee Kevin Jennings of being a pedophile. And Kincaid is probably one of the only few people in this country who openly defends Uganda's anti-gay bill including the part about the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality." Now what can top all of these ridiculous reasons? This one by the Traditional Values Coalition: 1. The repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell will lead to "sodomy on the battlefield" and sex parties: Imagine the impact that the rampant spread of STDs, including HIV would have on the military? How will the military handle the spread of these diseases in the barracks? How will the military handle sodomy in battlefield situations? . . . what about the unrestrained drug and sex antics committed by young male homosexuals? The reasons for repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell are good enough to stand on their own. But the claims of the opposition add credibility to these reasons simply because they are totally unprovable, illogical, and add nothing to the argument. They mainly come from a desire to exploit fear and ignorance. And a place of desperation. Fear, ignorance, and desperation are qualities which have never had a place in our Armed Forces. And they don't deserve to be accommodated now. But those who have served admirably and will continue to do so, regardless of sexual orientation, should be allowed in through the front door.
Be Aware of Your Sweater Puppies, Go Pink!
This month is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it is very important for women to get their mammograms when needed and to conduct at-home breast exams regularly. This month is to make sure that all women are taking care of themselves and staying in the best health they can. Not only that, but to help [...]
Gay College Students Achieve World-Record Kiss
Two male students from The College of New Jersey in Ewing, New Jersey have attempted and succeeded in breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest kiss. The young men kissed for over 33 hours while live feed of the event played on the Internet. Their goal was not only to break the record, but also to raise awareness for their ?Our Lips Are Sealed? campaign which supports LGBTQ equal rights. Judges for Guinness World Records were not present but will review the tape at a later date. If the judges rule that they did in fact break the record, they will be the first same sex pair to do so. Related Media Coverage:The Advocate ? September 20, 2010?Men Break Guinness Kiss Record?http://www.advocate.com/News/Daily_News/2010/09/19/Gay_Men_Kiss_for_Guinness_World_Record/
A 'Caption This' Only a Papa Ratzi Could Love
..or, perhaps. love enough not to say what most people will want to caption it.Roger Ebert tweeted this; its the Sun-Times' 'photo in need of a caption' for today:On the Sun-Times site, I saw one suggestion involving Charlie Sheen.Somehow, I think there might be some different thoughts here :)
(Bipartisan!) Election Hangover
The thrill of victory or the agony of defeat ? chances are that you are feeling one of those things today. To help sort things out, Grace the Spot is providing a guide to signs and symptoms of an Election Hangover.
Friday, November 19, 2010
UPDATE: Texas teen bludgeoned, burned to death in possible hate crime
Family disputes that victim made a pass at his killer.
Bert is not gay - say Sesame Streets producers
Apparently the use of the word Mo in reference to Bert does not mean he is gay. Mo is a derogatory US word used to refer to gays as well as hairstyles. The LA Times says the reference is about the hairstyle and not the sexuality (of a puppet)!
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Gay newsView Australian Queer News on the web at Gay News Blog
Community News
County wide show of equality for San Diego LGBT Pride’s Equality Torch Relay on October 10
Participants of San Diego LGBT Pride’s second annual Equality Torch Relay will simultaneously deliver the message of LGBT equality to all corners of San Diego County, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sunday, October 10. Team leaders and participants will carry banners and symbolic torches past dozens of landmarks and government buildings along routes that include San Diego city districts 1 through 8, as well as municipalities in East County, North County and South Bay.
The event culminates with a closing ceremony sponsored by VONS, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., the same day, in The Center’s auditorium, 3909 Centre St. It will feature live entertainment, free refres…
Read More
Participants of San Diego LGBT Pride’s second annual Equality Torch Relay will simultaneously deliver the message of LGBT equality to all corners of San Diego County, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sunday, October 10. Team leaders and participants will carry banners and symbolic torches past dozens of landmarks and government buildings along routes that include San Diego city districts 1 through 8, as well as municipalities in East County, North County and South Bay.
The event culminates with a closing ceremony sponsored by VONS, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., the same day, in The Center’s auditorium, 3909 Centre St. It will feature live entertainment, free refres…
Read More
Curve Auction :: Dani Campbell + the Real L Word Ladies
FW: Curve Magazine Auction: Lunch with Dani Campbell ++ EDEN Party with THE REAL L WORLD CAST!Exclusive eBay Curve Auction....
This is a chance of a lifetime!
Hang out with the smoking hot Curve magazine cover girl... lesbian firefighter DANI CAMPBELL from MTV's A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila!
Now's your chance to hang out with Dani Campbell in San Francisco during Pride Weekend (June 26-27, 2010)
If you are the highest bidder, you and a friend will party with Dani Campbell and the Curve magazine editors in San Francisco during Pride Weekend!
Here's what's included:
? Lunch for you and a friend with Dani Campbell (Saturday, June 26th) in San Francisco
? Two (2) ALL-ACCESS general admission passes to EDEN - All Women, All Weekend.
EDEN: The official women's events at San Francisco Pride: with Dani Campbell and cast members from Showtime's new series, The Real L Word.
Include general admission passes to:
EDEN Welcome Party (Thursday, June 24th)
Lesbian Comedy Show (Friday, June 25th)
Tease Dance Party (Friday, June 25th)
EDEN Signature Dance party (Saturday, June 26th)
Good Times after party in Oakland (Sunday, June 27th)
? One (1) autographed copy of Dani's Curve magazine cover
? One (1) official limited edition Curve magazine 20th Anniversary Tee Shirt
? Two (2) Grandstand tickets for at San Francisco?s Pride Parade (Saturday, June 26th)
FW: Curve Magazine Auction: Lunch with Dani Campbell ++ EDEN Party with THE REAL L WORLD CAST!
*** NOTE: This package does not include hotel, air travel or transportation.
????????
ABOUT EDEN:SIX MONTHS in the making...
Movement Productions and Curve Magazine present in conjunction with Olivia Travel, BoiBlue Events and FullCircle Events
The 1st ANNUAL All Women, All Weekend Pride Event
EDEN is the 1st Annual All Women, All Weekend San Francisco Pride Event co-produced by Movement Productions and Curve Magazine in conjunction with Olivia Travel, BoiBlue Events and FullCircle Events. Welcome to four days of non-stop parties, women and more. For information on ticket prices please click here (http://edensf.eventbrite.com/)
THURSDAY - June 24tn
EDEN Welcome Party
Parc55, SF
7pm-9pm
Only available to ALL ACCESS and ALL ACCESS VIP Ticket Holders
FRIDAY - June 25th
EDEN Comedy Show co-sponsored by Olivia Travel
Parc55, SF
7pm-9pm
Featured Comedians: Dana Goldberg, Sandra Valls, Julie Goldman, Gina Yashere
FRIDAY - June 25th
TEASE
Suite 181
181 Eddy, SF
9pm-3am
Featured DJs: DJ Olga T, DJ C-L.A. DJ Calalo, DJ Campbell, DJ Rockaway
Hosted by: Aysha of Flourish and Miranda of Afterglow
2 Floors
3 Dancefloors
5 DJs
Gorgeous, Hosted VIP areas
Bottle Service (VIP only)
Hot Go-Gos
Hotter Celesbians
SATURDAY - June 26th
EDEN
Taste the Forbidden Fruit
434 Brannan, SF
Inside the historic Olivia Travel Building, 3rd Floor
9pm-3am
Featured DJs: DJ Olga T, DJ Ms. Jackson, DJ Rockaway
Be transported into the Garden of Eden with 180 degree views overlooking the city, Movement Productions and FullCircle Events have created San Francisco's very own Eden inside the historic Olivia Travel building. Come taste of the Forbidden Fruit.
The Flyest Music
Hot Go-Gos
Drink Specials
Meet our Comedians
Special Guest Celesbians from THE REAL L WORD
Hosted VIP section
Hosted Bottle Service
Red Carpet
Valet Parking
SUNDAY - June 27th
GOOD TIMES
The Den, Oakland
7pm-midnight
Featured DJs: DJ Olga T, DJ Rapture, DJ Ryan, DJ Trinity, DJ Jacatac
End your party weekend right at one of the most popular All Women's event in the Bay, GOOD TIMES in the city with the largest lesbian population in the country, Oakland! GOOD TIMES is hosted at one of the most beautifully appointed venues in Oakland, The Den. Right across from the 17th street Bart, it takes less than 20 minutes to Bart over from the city and trust it is well worth the trip!
To bid, go here: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=300434151013&ssPageName=ADME:B:EF:US:1123
This is a chance of a lifetime!
Hang out with the smoking hot Curve magazine cover girl... lesbian firefighter DANI CAMPBELL from MTV's A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila!
Now's your chance to hang out with Dani Campbell in San Francisco during Pride Weekend (June 26-27, 2010)
If you are the highest bidder, you and a friend will party with Dani Campbell and the Curve magazine editors in San Francisco during Pride Weekend!
Here's what's included:
? Lunch for you and a friend with Dani Campbell (Saturday, June 26th) in San Francisco
? Two (2) ALL-ACCESS general admission passes to EDEN - All Women, All Weekend.
EDEN: The official women's events at San Francisco Pride: with Dani Campbell and cast members from Showtime's new series, The Real L Word.
Include general admission passes to:
EDEN Welcome Party (Thursday, June 24th)
Lesbian Comedy Show (Friday, June 25th)
Tease Dance Party (Friday, June 25th)
EDEN Signature Dance party (Saturday, June 26th)
Good Times after party in Oakland (Sunday, June 27th)
? One (1) autographed copy of Dani's Curve magazine cover
? One (1) official limited edition Curve magazine 20th Anniversary Tee Shirt
? Two (2) Grandstand tickets for at San Francisco?s Pride Parade (Saturday, June 26th)
FW: Curve Magazine Auction: Lunch with Dani Campbell ++ EDEN Party with THE REAL L WORLD CAST!
*** NOTE: This package does not include hotel, air travel or transportation.
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ABOUT EDEN:SIX MONTHS in the making...
Movement Productions and Curve Magazine present in conjunction with Olivia Travel, BoiBlue Events and FullCircle Events
The 1st ANNUAL All Women, All Weekend Pride Event
EDEN is the 1st Annual All Women, All Weekend San Francisco Pride Event co-produced by Movement Productions and Curve Magazine in conjunction with Olivia Travel, BoiBlue Events and FullCircle Events. Welcome to four days of non-stop parties, women and more. For information on ticket prices please click here (http://edensf.eventbrite.com/)
THURSDAY - June 24tn
EDEN Welcome Party
Parc55, SF
7pm-9pm
Only available to ALL ACCESS and ALL ACCESS VIP Ticket Holders
FRIDAY - June 25th
EDEN Comedy Show co-sponsored by Olivia Travel
Parc55, SF
7pm-9pm
Featured Comedians: Dana Goldberg, Sandra Valls, Julie Goldman, Gina Yashere
FRIDAY - June 25th
TEASE
Suite 181
181 Eddy, SF
9pm-3am
Featured DJs: DJ Olga T, DJ C-L.A. DJ Calalo, DJ Campbell, DJ Rockaway
Hosted by: Aysha of Flourish and Miranda of Afterglow
2 Floors
3 Dancefloors
5 DJs
Gorgeous, Hosted VIP areas
Bottle Service (VIP only)
Hot Go-Gos
Hotter Celesbians
SATURDAY - June 26th
EDEN
Taste the Forbidden Fruit
434 Brannan, SF
Inside the historic Olivia Travel Building, 3rd Floor
9pm-3am
Featured DJs: DJ Olga T, DJ Ms. Jackson, DJ Rockaway
Be transported into the Garden of Eden with 180 degree views overlooking the city, Movement Productions and FullCircle Events have created San Francisco's very own Eden inside the historic Olivia Travel building. Come taste of the Forbidden Fruit.
The Flyest Music
Hot Go-Gos
Drink Specials
Meet our Comedians
Special Guest Celesbians from THE REAL L WORD
Hosted VIP section
Hosted Bottle Service
Red Carpet
Valet Parking
SUNDAY - June 27th
GOOD TIMES
The Den, Oakland
7pm-midnight
Featured DJs: DJ Olga T, DJ Rapture, DJ Ryan, DJ Trinity, DJ Jacatac
End your party weekend right at one of the most popular All Women's event in the Bay, GOOD TIMES in the city with the largest lesbian population in the country, Oakland! GOOD TIMES is hosted at one of the most beautifully appointed venues in Oakland, The Den. Right across from the 17th street Bart, it takes less than 20 minutes to Bart over from the city and trust it is well worth the trip!
To bid, go here: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=300434151013&ssPageName=ADME:B:EF:US:1123
Lesbian assault help
My first lesbian experience quickly became assault. What do I do to take care of myself now? While I'm a queer female, I've never actually been with a woman before. I was at an event that promoted safe exploration of female sexuality. I'd sussed out the org for a while and did research before going in; they had a long list of rules and procedures and had a history of organising such events so I figured I'd be OK.
I spent most of the night observing what was going on before jumping in. Unfortunately I happened to get the one psycho of the group - a crazy hyperactive (later I found out she was drunk) girl who didn't know what she was going, was rough to the point of pain and bleeding, and was very insistent. Despite me begging her to stop and be gentle (she knew it was my first time), she kept going, or she'd change up and then go back to being rough and painful.
I was in near shock and it didn't hit me that it was assault until I got into the taxi home and started crying. Ever since then I've been having flashes of memories, the smell of people's bodies would set me off, and I just feel so lost.
I've been talking to some friends (esp those active with the queer community here) and they've been fantastic with support and resources. But I'm not sure where I can go for help. Looking up "lesbian assault" on Google gets me porn. A lot of the abuse/assault resources are for women attacked by men; not so much for women attacked by women.
I've emailed the organiser (though I think she knew what happened already, just emphasising the gravity of the situation) and I have a doctor's appointment today to check that there hasn't been terrible damage. I did use to see a psychologist for other things, but I'm not sure if queer sexuality is an area she's experienced in. But where to now? I'm going to a big family event overseas in a couple of weeks and they're really conservative (even my very liberal sister was a little bit judgemental when I told her) and I don't want to start breaking down halfway through the event. My boyfriend has been really supportive of everything, but I don't want to rely on him alone for help.
What can I do to take care of myself? Where can I go? (I live in Brisbane) I seem to go from feeling OK to feeling like crap as a yoyo. I keep feeling like I should apologize to someone but I don't know who. I don't want to press charges - I don't want to go through that whole process and I hardly remember the other girl's name. I just want to be able to heal.
Emails can be sent into agirlinpain@care2.com
I spent most of the night observing what was going on before jumping in. Unfortunately I happened to get the one psycho of the group - a crazy hyperactive (later I found out she was drunk) girl who didn't know what she was going, was rough to the point of pain and bleeding, and was very insistent. Despite me begging her to stop and be gentle (she knew it was my first time), she kept going, or she'd change up and then go back to being rough and painful.
I was in near shock and it didn't hit me that it was assault until I got into the taxi home and started crying. Ever since then I've been having flashes of memories, the smell of people's bodies would set me off, and I just feel so lost.
I've been talking to some friends (esp those active with the queer community here) and they've been fantastic with support and resources. But I'm not sure where I can go for help. Looking up "lesbian assault" on Google gets me porn. A lot of the abuse/assault resources are for women attacked by men; not so much for women attacked by women.
I've emailed the organiser (though I think she knew what happened already, just emphasising the gravity of the situation) and I have a doctor's appointment today to check that there hasn't been terrible damage. I did use to see a psychologist for other things, but I'm not sure if queer sexuality is an area she's experienced in. But where to now? I'm going to a big family event overseas in a couple of weeks and they're really conservative (even my very liberal sister was a little bit judgemental when I told her) and I don't want to start breaking down halfway through the event. My boyfriend has been really supportive of everything, but I don't want to rely on him alone for help.
What can I do to take care of myself? Where can I go? (I live in Brisbane) I seem to go from feeling OK to feeling like crap as a yoyo. I keep feeling like I should apologize to someone but I don't know who. I don't want to press charges - I don't want to go through that whole process and I hardly remember the other girl's name. I just want to be able to heal.
Emails can be sent into agirlinpain@care2.com
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