July, 2017 News (108 Articles with 338,757 total views)
On the cover of the print edition for July, 2017 THIS IS WHAT EQUALITY LOOKS LIKE GEAE's Progress for Equality gathering at Erie County Courthouse June 11. Photo: Mike Mahler
This began publication in December 2002 after a hiatus
Category for this issueCalendar & Upcoming Events
Calendar of Local GLBT Events |
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Local and Regional News
PFLAG Pittsburgh is Moving Locations
Pittsburgh, PA – PFLAG Pittsburgh, the leading support, education and advocacy organization for families, friends and members of the LGBTQ community, is excited to announced that, beginning in July, the group will be holding their regular monthly meetings at PERSAD Center which is located inside Lawrenceville Square at 5301 Butler Street in in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville neighborhood.
7th Annual GEAE Afternoon for Equality
Greater Erie Alliance for Equality held its 7th annual Afternoon for Equality on Sunday June 12, 2017 at 21 La Rue Dix in downtown Erie. The fundraiser featured great foods, local wine and music, and a celebration of GEAE's accomplishments over the past year. President Will Koehler thanked their many sponsors and presented scholarships to five area high school graduates who will be furthering their education, most at local universities. GEAE's next two major projects will be the development of the Regional GSA and the Intersections of Equality in October, highlighting services for LGBT seniors.
GEAE Progress for Equality
On Sunday, June 11, 2017, Greater Erie Alliance for Equality held a Progress Towards Equality Rally on the steps of the Erie County Courthouse, 140 W 6th St, Erie PA. About 50-60 people attended, and there was local TV coverage. This was organized in conjuction with similar events in Washington DC and across the US. The event featured a presention of a timeline on local, state and national progress on LGBT Equality starting with the Stonewall riot of June 29, 1969. There was also a large banner with the slogan "This is what Equality looks like" that people could write their name, a message, or leave a colorful handprint. This banner will be in display with opportunities for other people to add their mark at future events including Pride Fest on June 24th in Perry Square.
Right Rev V. Gene Robinson speaks at Chautauqua Institution July 26
Retired Episcopal Bishop Gene Robinson will speak at Chautauqua Institution Hall of Philosophy July 26 12-4PM. The Right Reverend V. Gene Robinson was elected Episcopal Bishop of New Hampshire in 2003, becoming the first openly-gay and partnered priest to be elected Bishop in historic Christendom. Robinson was consecrated bishop and served as IX Bishop of New Hampshire until his retirement in early 2013.
US Senator Casey congratulates Erie on 25 years of Pride
From US Senator Bob Casey, Jr: I'd like to congratulate the NW PA Pride Alliance and the broader Northwestern Pennsylvania LGBTQ community on 25 successful years of Pride events I want you to know that you have a voice and an ally in Washington. I am here and I am fighting for you. From equality to safety, I'll continue to make sure that every Pennsylvanian, regardless of sexual orientation, gender, or race, is represented. We must not leave anyone behind.
TransFamily 5th Anniversary Picnic on July 29!
On Saturday, July 29 from noon to 6pm, join TransFamily of NWPA at the Erie Zoo picnic grounds for a day of fun, food, and friendship to celebrate their fifth anniversary! This will be a pot luck event. TransFamily will supply burgers, hot dogs, and rolls. Bring a dish to share and BYOB! The Erie Zoo picnic area is located directly behind the zoo off of Glenwood Park Avenue. The picnic grounds provide a playground, restrooms, and professional horseshoe pits. You must supply your own horseshoes, so bring them if you've got them!!
HIV Awareness Walk on July 31
Erie County HIV Task Force invites everyone to participate in an HIV Awareness Walk on Monday, July 31. We will meet in the parking lot of the Erie Bayfront Convention Center, 1 Sassafras Pier, Erie PA at 6:30 PM. We will walk to the Bicentennial Tower at Dobbins Landing (foot of State St) and back again. Everyone is encouraged to wear red to help raise HIV awareness. All ages are welcome and the event is child and pet friendly. (Please be prepared to clean up after your own pets.) People participating as organizations are welcome to bring banners or other items identifying their group/organization. If you don’t wish to walk the entire route, you are welcome to join us at any point along the route.
Northwest Pennsylvania Broadband Initiative: Finding Ways to Connect Residents, Schools, Businesses
Franklin, PA. (June 5, 2017) – The Northwest Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission is teaming up with Connected Nation to assess the current broadband (high-speed Internet) environment across the region and determine what can be done to improve access for local residents, businesses, and other organizations. On Monday, June 5, the Northwest Pennsylvania Regional Broadband Committee kicked off the first-ever Connectedsm Community Engagement in the state of Pennsylvania.
Deadline for July 2017 print edition (issue # 260) of Erie Gay News is Monday, June 12
For the next print edition of Erie Gay News (issue # 260, cover dated for July 2017), please send in calendar events, news items, and other info for late June 2017 and beyond by Monday, June 12. We expect that the next print edition will come out on Tuesday, June 20.
4th Annual Pride Night at Erie Seawolves on July 17
NW PA Pride Alliance is excited to bring you Pride Night at the Seawolves for its 4th year! This year, it will be held on Monday July 17th at Jerry Uht Park, 110 E 10th St, Erie PA, Game starts at 7:05pm. To get your $8 tickets, just print the voucher here and submit it to the box office no later than one week before the game (Monday, July 10th) and your tickets will be waiting for you at Will Call.
Painting with Pride at Zone Dance Club on July 10
Painting with Pride, hosted by instructor Angela Howell, will be held on Monday July 10th at 7pm at The Zone Dance Club 133 West 18th St., Erie, PA. All proceeds benefit Northwest PA Pride Alliance. We'll be painting a breezy beach, perfect for summer. There's no need to bring your own drinks and snacks this time, the fully stocked bar and kitchen will be open! Tickets are $35 and include all painting supplies, and are available here at the provided link and MUST be purchased prior to 12:01am on July 5th. Take some of the Monday out of your Monday and sip your way to a masterpiece.
Entertainment and Travel
Whitney Houston, Cindy Crawford, Cher & More Featured in Upcoming Doc on Celeb Make-up Artist Kevyn Aucoin | Logo, Sept
New York, NY, June 29, 2017 – Fresh off their second consecutive Emmy® Award win, Logo Documentary Films today announced the next documentaries in their 2017 slate. The first film, Forbidden: Undocumented & Queer in Rural America, premiering Thursday, August 3 at 9PM ET/PT on Logo, follows Moises Serrano, an undocumented immigrant and gay man born in Mexico and raised in North Carolina, fighting for the American dream. KEVYN AUCOIN Beauty & the Beast in Mepremieres on Logo on Thursday, September 14 at 9PM ET/PT. The film, directed by Lori Kaye, uses legendary makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin's never before seen personal video and audiotapes to tell the story of his phenomenal, artistic gift nearly extinguished by gay persecution, an undiagnosed rare disease and his untimely death at age 40.
Buffalo United Artists proudly presents the return of Charles Busch's CLEOPATRA
Buffalo United Artists presents the retun of Charles Busch's CLEOPATRA, for 6 shows only. The turbulent life of Cleopatra, Queen of the Nile, is told, viewed through the outrageous comic lens of master parodist Charles Busch. Evoking both 1930's Hollywood epics and the grand 19th Century romantic theatre of Sarah Bernhardt, this version of the life of the ill-fated Egyptian Queen takes her from her teenage seduction of the Roman leader Julius Caesar through her volatile tragic romance with Marc Antony and to her ultimate death. Charles Busch's Cleopatra has echoes of the many great stars that have played her on stage and on film, such as Claudette Colbert, Elizabeth Taylor, Vivien Leigh and several who thankfully didn't, including Jean Harlow, Barbara Stanwyck and Mae West. Charles Busch's CLEOPATRA is directed by Todd Warfield and stars Jimmy Janowski, Bebe Bvlgari, Maria Droz, Timothy Patrick Finnegan, Adam Hayes, Guy Tomassi, and Michael Seitz. Performances are Saturday, July 8th at 8:00 p.m., Sunday, July 9th at 7:00 p.m., Friday, July 14th at 8:00 p.m., Saturday, July 15th at 4:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m., and Sunday, July 16th at 7:00 p.m. at Alleyway Theatre – Main Stage, One Curtain Up Alley, Buffalo NY. Tickets are $25.00 general admission, $23.00 for seniors, $20.00 for members, $15.00 for students.. To make reservations or for more info, call\ (716) 886-9239
Logo's Fourth Annual 'Trailblazer Honors' Soars To New Heights With Viewership Up 80% From Last Year
NEW YORK, NY (June 27, 2017) – Logo announced today that TRAILBLAZER HONORS' viewership was up a whopping 80% with total viewers and 118% with P18-49. The one-hour special event, which aired on Friday, June 23rd at 9PM ET/PT on LOGO and VH1, delivered 328K total viewers and 203K P18-49 (across VH1 & Logo).
VH1's 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Season 9 Makes History as the Most Watched Season Ever
New York, NY – June 26, 2017 – Following a headline-grabbing, "Gaga-tastic" season opener that drew nearly 1 million viewers, "RuPaul's Drag Race" kept the momentum going through last week's finale extravaganza delivering the most viewed season and finale ever. 859k total viewers tuned-in last Friday to watch Sasha Velour snatch the crown and title of America's Next Drag Superstar, representing an increase of 218% over last season's finale (P18-49). Additionally, the full season was up an astonishing 122% from last season (P18-49). The season ender also trended across Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and was the #1 most social program on all of television on Friday.
RuPaul Crowns Sasha Velour America's Next Drag Super Star in Season 9 Finale of 'RuPaul's Drag Race'
New York, NY – June 23, 2017 – You're perfect, you're beautiful and you're a winner, baby! Sasha Velour was crowned the season nine winner of VH1's Emmy® Award-winning "RuPaul's Drag Race," after slaying the runway and competition in a season filled with jaw-dropping lip-sync battles, sickening fashions and unforgettably raw moments. Velour sashays away with the title of America's Next Drag Superstar and a cash prize of $100,000, beating out 13 of the nation's top queens including Miss Congeniality winner, Valentina. Season eight winner Bob the Drag Queen was on hand to crown her successor in front of a packed house at Los Angeles' Alex Theatre.
Logo's 'Gay For Play Game Show Starring RuPaul' Returns Thursday, June 29 at 9PM ET/PT
New York, NY (June 16, 2017 )– Logo today announced that "Gay for Play Game Show Starring RuPaul" will return with six new episodes beginning Thursday, June 29th at 9PM ET/PT. The fun-filled trivia series, with Emmy award winning host RuPaul, features pop culture savvy contestants competing to win over $5,000 in cash prizes. You don't need to be gay to play, but it sure does help!
Logo Announced Special Programming for Pride Month
NEW YORK, NY (June 9, 2017) - As part of LGBTQ Pride month, Logo today announced special programming including "Pride History Project," "We Remember Orlando" and "Trailblazer Honors."
VisitErie LGBT YouTube Video To Air on TV in Buffalo Region
VisitErie has produced a YouTube video promoting Erie as an LGBTQ-friendly desitination. It is performing so well in their targeted markets that they have decided to buy TV air time in the Buffalo/Niagara Falls area. The video during RuPaul's Drag Race, Keeping up with the Kardashians, Pretty Little Liars and a few other shows from June 16-July 16. Not only will VisitErie reach the LGBT market digitally, they will also reach them on TV! Several area LGBT community members were featured in the video.
Political, Activism and Legal
RI General Assembly Approves Bill Banning Conversion Therapy for Minors
(Providence, RI - July 1, 2017) - The Rhode Island General Assembly last night voted for final passage of a bill sponsored by Rep. Edith Ajello to prohibit licensed mental health providers from using the discredited and harmful practice on children and adolescents.
Palm Center Director Concerned by Continuation of Military's Transgender Ban
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - June 30, 2017 - In response to Defense Secretary James Mattis's decision to delay implementing rules allowing transgender applicants to join the military, Palm Center Director Aaron Belkin released the following statement:"Secretary Mattis's decision to prolong the enlistment ban will have the effect of requiring applicants to lie in order to join the military, as was the case under 'don't ask, don't tell.' That makes no sense because, as predicted by all of the research, transgender military service has been a success.
OutServe-SLDN responds to DoD's Six-Month Delay in Transgender Recruitment Policy
(WASHINGTON) June 30, 2017 – OutServe-SLDN, the nation's leading and largest LGBT military & veterans issued the following statement today, in response to the Pentagon's statement, first reported by the Washington Post, that there will be a six-month delay in the enactment of policies allowing qualified, transgender individuals to enter military service.
BREAKING: Pentagon Delays New Transgender Recruitment Policy By Six Months
WASHINGTON, D.C. June 30, 2017 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest non-profit organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to news that the Department of Defense (DoD) is delaying the implementation of a new policy that will eventually allow transgender people to enlist and commission into the military. The delay will not prevent the thousands of currently serving transgender troops from continuing to serve. According to a report last week, the service chiefs recommended the six month delay to "gauge if currently serving transgender troops are facing problems and what necessary changes the military bases might have to make."
NCAVP mourns the intimate partner violence homicide of Gerald Moore in Madison, Wisconsin
June 30, 2017- The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) has learned of the intimate partner violence related homicide of Gerald Moore, which occurred on June 24, 2017. According to local media reports, Gerald died after being stabbed multiple times by Ronald Redeaux, his roommate. The two were in a relationship, and according to police, officers had responded to domestic disturbances at their home in the past; Redeaux had been arrested for domestic battery.
4 days after NCLR wins U.S. Supreme Court case Pavan, TX Supreme Court allows unconstitutional claim to continue
(San Francisco, CA, June 30, 2017)-Today, the Texas Supreme Court issued its decision in Pidgeon v. Turner, deciding that a case challenging government-provided spousal benefits to same-sex spouses may continue. On Monday, the National Center for Lesbian Rights won U.S. Supreme Court case Pavan v. Smith, which affirmed that the 2015 marriage equality decision Obergefell v. Hodges requires the equal treatment of same-sex married couples. National Center for Lesbian Rights Deputy Director Cathy Sakimura issued the following statement in response: "Obergefell and Pavan plainly require equal treatment of married same-sex couples. It is disappointing-and inexplicable-that the Court would allow this case to continue, and that the Texas Supreme Court did not simply resolve this now. There is no need for further litigation on this issue, which will only take up unnecessary time and resources. The law is clear, and the Supreme Court has now removed any possible question or uncertainty by issuing the Pavan decision earlier this week. States must provide married same-sex couples with exactly the protections and benefits as opposite-sex married couples. The Texas Supreme Court merely delayed this inevitable ruling."
Equality Texas Releases Statement
TEXAS – June 30, 2017 – On February 27, 2017, Equality Texas filed an amicus brief with the Texas Supreme Court in the case of Jack Pidgeon and Larry Hicks v. Mayor Sylvester Turner and City of Houston (formerly Pidgeon et al, v. Parker). Equality Texas filed the Amicus Brief on behalf of 35,000 Texans, including married LGBT Texans like L.J. and M.P. whose rights are directly implicated by this case.
NCAVP mourns the homicide of Ava Le'Ray Barrin, a black transgender teenage girl killed in Athens, GA
June 29, 2017 - The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) mourns the homicide of Ava Le'Ray Barrin, a black transgender teenage girl, killed in Athens, Georgia on June 25th, 2017. According to media reports, Ava was fatally shot after an argument with Jalen Brown, an acquaintance. Brown has been charged with her murder and aggravated assault. Ava, who was seventeen years old, is the youngest transgender person killed this year. Friends and family came from as far as Chicago to mourn and remember her life at a vigil in Athens on Monday.
ACLU Statement on Nomination of Head of Civil Rights at Department of Justice
WASHINGTON - June 29 - President Trump nominated today Eric Dreiband to serve as the head of the Civil Rights Division in the Department of Justice. Jesselyn McCurdy, deputy director of the American Civil Liberties Union Washington Legislative Office, issued the following statement: "Dreiband has made a career going against women and LGBT rights. As a lawyer for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission under President George W. Bush, Dreiband testified before Congress against legislation that would prevent wage discrimination. As a private attorney, Dreiband represented organizations seeking religious exemptions to avoid providing contraceptive coverage for women in the workplace. He also argued on behalf of the University of North Carolina in support of a law that discriminates against trans people.
Amid Spike In Hate Crimes, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law Calls for Response and Action
June 29, 2017 - The Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law responded on Thursday to a new report detailing the lack of accurate data on hate crimes incidents. The under-reporting of hate crimes is attributable, in part, to a lack of trust among targeted communities who do not feel safe reporting incidents of hate to law enforcement.
National LGBTQ Task Force Advocacy Delivers HHS Restoration of Sexual Orientation Question to Survey of Older Adults
WASHINGTON, DC-The National LGBTQ Task Force ("the Task Force") is celebrating the restoration by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) of a sexual orientation question to the survey of older adults. The Task Force will redouble its effort for the addition of a gender identity question to the national survey.
First-Ever Bilingual LGBT PopUp Ads Air on YouTube
NEW YORK – For the first time ever, emotionally moving videos of Asian parents of LGBT children appeared as pop up ads on YouTube before viewers watch their favorite Chinese Soap Opera, Filipino comedy, Korean drama, Vietnamese talent show, or Bollywood movie over LGBTQ Pride weekend and for the remainder of the month
Resolution Condemning Chechnya Violence Against Gay Men Clears California Assembly
Sacramento - June 26, 2017 – By a unanimous vote, the California Assembly has approved a resolution calling on Congress and the president to condemn violence against gay men in Chechnya. Assembly Joint Resolution (AJR 16), by Assemblymembers Evan Low (D-Silicon Valley) and Jordan Cunningham (R-Templeton) and sponsored by Equality California, also calls on the president to encourage immigration authorities to grant asylum and refugee status to LGBTQ people and others fleeing persecution.
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene Resolution Marks 'LGBT Equality Day'
WASHINGTON, D.C. June 26, 2017 – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-WA) reintroduced their resolution to designate June 26, as "LGBT Equality Day," honoring the anniversary of three significant victories won at the U.S. Supreme Court for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americans.
DNC on Today's SCOTUS Decisions on LGBTQ Rights
In response to the Supreme Court's decision to overturn the Arkansas Supreme Court's decision in Pavan v. Smith, thereby guaranteeing the right of same-sex parents to have the names of both parents on their children's birth certificates and today's announcement that the court will hear the discrimination case Masterpiece Cakeshop Ltd. v. Colorado Civil Rights, DNC spokesperson Joel Kasnetz released the following statement: "It's fitting that, on the two-year anniversary of the nation-wide marriage equality decision, love won again today. Marriage equality and its protections are the law of the land and today's ruling affirmed the strength of loving families with same-sex parents "As for the Colorado case, our constitution guarantees equal protection for all under the law, so we urge the Supreme Court to affirm the Colorado Court of Appeals decision that held businesses cannot discriminate against same-sex couples."
On the two year anniversary of marriage equality decision, Supreme Court reverses Arkansas' attempt to defy Obergefell
(San Francisco, CA, June 26, 2017)-Today, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed the Arkansas Supreme Court's decision in Pavan v. Smith which denied same-sex married couples' right to be named on their children's birth certificates just as other married parents are. The Arkansas decision caused these families serious harms, complicating parents' ability to consent to emergency medical care, enroll children in school or recreational sports, travel abroad, and generally care for their children. By treating these families differently the decision also subjected them to official stigma and bias, sending a message that they are unworthy of equal recognition by the state. The families in this case were represented by the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), Arkansas attorney Cheryl Maples, and Ropes & Gray LLP.
Supreme Court Will Hear ACLU Case About Cake Shop Refusing Service to Same-Sex Couple
WASHINGTON - June 26, 2017 - The Supreme Court today announced it will review a decision from the Colorado Court of Appeals that found that a cake shop discriminated against a same-sex couple by refusing to sell them a wedding cake.
Subaru of America Continues Partnership with PFLAG National to Make School Environments Safe for LGBTQ Youth
CHERRY HILL, N.J., June 23, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today proudly announced its partnership with PFLAG, a national organization uniting families, allies, and people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ), for the Cultivating Respect: Safe Schools for All program. Since 2015, Subaru has partnered with PFLAG National and its network of chapters across the country to ensure that all youth – regardless of their family background or personal identity – are welcomed and accepted at school.
Chiefs Seek to Block Fully Fit Transgender Applicants from Serving as Army Spends $300 Million to Recruit 6,000 Soldiers
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - June 23, 2017 - In response to today's announcement that Service Chiefs are requesting a 6-month delay in the repeal of the Pentagon's ban on enlistment by transgender applicants seeking to join the military, Palm CenterDirector Aaron Belkin released the following statement: "Transgender troops have been serving openly and effectively for a year, as predicted by all of the research showing that inclusive policy for LGBT troops promotes readiness. ​"A s​ix-month​ delay of the last piece of inclusive policy, the repeal of the enlistment ban, will only produce redundant evidence about the contributions of transgender service members. Indeed, the Chiefs who are demanding ongoing delay are not bringing any new arguments or new data to the table, but are recycling long-discredited concerns whose only basis is emotion and politics, not data. It is particularly remarkable, as the Army spends an additional $300 million to recruit 6,000 Soldiers this year, that it would seek to turn away Americans who are fit and eager to serve.
Defense Department May Delay New Recruitment Policy Allowing Transgender People to Enter the Military
WASHINGTON, DC - June 23, 2017 – Today, the American Military Partner Association (AMPA), the nation's largest organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) military families, responded to news that the Department of Defense (DoD) may be poised to delay by six months the implementation of a new policy allowing transgender recruits to enter the military. The proposed delay will not prevent currently serving transgender service members from continuing to serve, however, it would delay the change in policy allowing qualified and talented transgender people from entering the military.
NCAVP learns of an intimate partner violence homicide-suicide in Salt Lake City, Utah
June 23- 2017 - The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) has learned of the intimate partner violence related homicide of Richelle Horsley and the suicide of Fransiska Dastrup, which occurred the morning of June 22, 2017. According to local media reports, Horsley was found shot in a car next to another vehicle, and Dastrup was found away from the car with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. According to police, the two women were in a relationship and officers had responded to domestic disturbances in the past.
Equality California: New Healthcare Repeal Bill is 'Immoral'
Los Angeles – In response to the Senate's just-released bill that would repeal portions of the Affordable Care Act, Equality California Executive Director Rick Zbur issued the following statement: "The bill unveiled today by the Senate isn't just mean, as Donald Trump himself admits about the House version, it's immoral. If passed, it will have a devastating impact on the health and lives of millions of LGBTQ people and people living with HIV, who will lose health insurance under the Senate bill.
GLAD Statement on Ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in Barber v. Bryant
June 22, 2017 - Today the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit overturned a lower court ruling against Mississippi HB 1523, the "Protecting Freedom of Conscience from Government Discrimination Act," saying that plaintiffs did not have standing to challenge the law.
Senate's Obamacare Repeal Bill Condemned by LGBTQ Advocates
WASHINGTON, D.C. - June 22, 2017 -Today, the United States (U.S.) Senate made public the so-called Better Care Reconciliation Act (H.R. 1628). If passed, the bill would take away health insurance from millions of people, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people. While the full extent of its harm is not yet known because the bill has not yet been scored by the Congressional Budget Office, it is clear that the Senate is proposing to make health insurance less affordable and charge those with pre-existing conditions more money for coverage.
Federal Appeals Court Lifts Injunction Blocking Anti-LGBT Law in Mississippi
JACKSON, Miss. - June 22, 2017 - A federal appeals court today overturned a preliminary injunction in a lawsuit, Barber v. Bryant, that had previously stopped an anti-LGBT law in Mississippi from taking effect.
At Sen. Casey's Urging, HHS Restores Sexual Orientation Question to Key Older Americans Survey
Washington, D.C. - June 21, 2017 -Today, U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging Ranking Member Bob Casey (D-Pa.) welcomed the decision of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to restore a question on sexual orientation to a survey that assesses whether key programs are meeting the needs of older LGBT Americans. The decision by HHS to restore the sexual orientation question comes after HHS proposed to remove it and Ranking Member Casey and Special Committee on Aging Chairman Susan Collins (R-Maine) wrote a letter to HHS objecting to the removal and staff pressed HHS decision-makers during a requested briefing on the topic.
NCLR says it will fight newly released Senate healthcare repeal plan 'with the full force of our community behind us'
(Washington, DC, June 22, 2017)-Today, Senate Republicans released a "discussion draft" of their healthcare repeal plan. National Center for Lesbian Rights Executive Director Kate Kendell issued the following statement in response: "After unprecedented secrecy during drafting, a small number of senators put forward a plan today to take away healthcare from millions of Americans, including millions of LGBTQ Americans," said Kate Kendell, executive director at the National Center for Lesbian Rights. "With deep cuts to Medicaid and the federal defunding of Planned Parenthood, this rushed and unnecessary debacle will do nothing except strip coverage from those who need it most, including people of color, LGBTQ people, elders, immigrants, and young people. And after 30 years of progress in fighting HIV, this plan turns back the clock and endangers those living with HIV by cutting off access to care. With the full force of our community behind us, we will continue to fight against this bill as though our lives depend on it-because they do."
New Research Identifies the Impact of Gender and Family in the Global Language Services Industry
BOSTON, June 22, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Issues related to gender, the workplace, and family are important social and political concerns. "Gender and Family in the Language Services Industry" is the first in a series of reports by independent market research firm Common Sense Advisory (CSA Research) dealing with gender and family issues among those who are employed in the language industry – translation, localization, interpreting, and related tasks – or who work with language services.
Paul Feinman Nominated as New York States High Court's First Gay Judge
June 17, Long Island, NY - Governor Andrew Cuomo will nominate Judge Paul Feinman to an open seat on the Court of Appeals.This is the highest Court in New York State. He will be the first openly gay judge to serve on the Court of Appeals.New York and Long Island LGBT Network CEO David Kilminick joins advocacy groups across the United States in praising the selection.
Civil and Human Rights Coalition Condemns Administration's New Instructions on Transgender Student Discrimination
WASHINGTON - June 16, 2017 -In response to the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights Instructions to the Field Regarding Complaints Involving Transgender Students, Vanita Gupta, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement: "In February, in a mean-spirited move, Secretary DeVos and Attorney General Sessions rescinded important guidance clarifying schools' obligations under Title IX to protect transgender students from discrimination. The unclear instructions issued by the Department of Education sow a new level of confusion and doubt for students, families and schools. Federal court rulings are increasingly on the side of transgender students, even if Secretary DeVos and Attorney General Sessions are not. The civil and human rights community continues to stand united, supporting the right of every student to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be protected by the law regardless of gender identity."
ACLU Comment on New Trump Guidance on Transgender Student Discrimination
WASHINGTON - June 16, 2017 - The Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights issued new guidance on handling cases of transgender student discrimination. James Esseks, director of the American Civil Liberties Union's LGBT & HIV Project, said: "The Trump administration's decision to revoke the guidance on Title IX and transgender students was a shameful move. That guidance provided clarity to schools, as well as to transgender students and their families.
GLSEN Responds to Leaked Ed Memo On Investigations Into Discrimination Against Trans Students
(New York, NY) - June 16, 2017 - The following statements can be attributed to GLSEN's Executive Director, Eliza Byard, and to Director of Public Policy, Nathan Smith: Said Byard: "GLSEN is disturbed by the lack of clarity in the leaked Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR) memo that confuses serious issues related to the handling of cases by the Office of Civil Rights and will only make the OCR's work more difficult. This will have a dramatic impact on cases of discrimination against transgender students. The data on the dangers to trans students is clear. GLSEN calls on OCR to specify whether they will defend trans students' access to safe and appropriate school facilities – regardless of where the student lives or what local protections may or may not exist. Forcing trans students to use restrooms that do not align with their gender identity puts those students at risk of harassment and violence."
NCAVP mourns the homicide of Josie Berrios, a transgender woman of color killed in Ithaca, New York
June 15, 2017 - The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) mourns the homicide of Josie Berrios, a transgender woman of color, killed in Ithaca, New York on Tuesday, June 13th, 2017. According to media reports, Josie was found dead at a building site that was under construction. Michael Davis, 45, was arrested and charged in connection with Josie's death and is alleged to have had a personal relationship with her. Josie, who also went by the name Kendra Marie Adams, was remembered in an outpouring of love and grief by friends on social media.
Historic Primary Win Positions Danica Roem to Become the Only Out Transgender State Legislator in the Nation
Washington, DC - June 13, 2017 – Today Danica Roem beat three Democratic primary challengers to become the first out transgender candidate to win a state legislative primary in Virginia, and taking her one-step closer to becoming the only out trans state legislator in the entire nation. As the Democratic party representative in the District 13 Virginia House of Delegates race, she will challenge incumbent Bob Marshall, a champion of anti-LGBTQ issues and the self-described "chief homophobe" of the state legislature. Victory Fund endorsed Danica as a Spotlight Candidate in April and provided extensive campaign and fundraising support throughout the primary.
Tackling Transphobia in the Heartland
Washington, DC - June 14, 2017 - In face-to-face conversations with 784 working- and middle-class central Ohio voters, Working America canvassers linked values of fairness and equality to bathroom access for LGBTQ individuals. The new "Front Porch Focus Group" report, Tackling Transphobia in the Heartland, explores attitudes about SB100, Ohio's legislative proposal to outlaw discrimination against LGBTQ individuals in employment, housing and public accommodations. The project also surfaced effective messages to advance nondiscrimination policies.
Lambda Legal Joins with 15 National LGBT Groups to Oppose the Confirmations of John K. Bush and Damien Schiff
Washington, DC - June 12, 2017 – Today, Lambda Legal and 15 other national LGBT groups urged opposition to the confirmations of John K. Bush to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, and Damien Schiff to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, citing public statements and writings from both nominees and their repeated demonstration of "contempt for LGBT Americans, people living with HIV, women, and other vulnerable populations." In a letter sent to leaders of the Senate Judiciary Committee – who are expected to hear testimony from both nominees at a confirmation hearing scheduled for Wednesday morning – LGBT groups opposed to the confirmations cite not only homophobic epithets and other anti-LGBT and misogynistic remarks made by nominees in their public speeches and writings but also records that clearly illustrate their "views on civil rights issues are fundamentally at odds with the notion that LGBT people are entitled to equality, liberty, justice and dignity under the law."
Equality California Marks First Anniversary of Pulse Shootings
Los Angeles - June 12, 2017 - In honor of the June 12 anniversary of the deaths of 49 LGBTQ people and allies at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, Florida, Equality California Executive Director Rick Zbur issued the following statement: "One year ago, the worst mass shooting in U.S. history forced our community to confront the fact that the sickeningly repetitive cycle of American gun violence is itself an LGBTQ issue. In response, Equality California launched its #SafeAndEqual initiative to support stricter gun safety laws in California, resulting in the passage of six bills and Proposition 63 that give our state the nation's strictest gun protections. Nationally, progress has been far slower – as evidenced by last week's shootings in Orlando almost exactly a year after our community's loss. We will honor the memory of those murdered a year ago at Pulse by continuing to fight in California and in Washington, D.C. until our community and all Americans are safe from gun violence."
National Report on Hate Violence Against Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and HIV-Affected Communities Release
NATIONAL - June 12, 2017 -Today the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) released its 20th annual report Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and HIV-Affected Hate Violence in 2016. For this report - the most comprehensive of its kind - NCAVP collected data on 1,036 incidents of hate violence against LGBTQ and HIV-affected people from 12 local NCAVP member organizations in 11 states. States reporting were: Arizona, California, Illinois, Ohio, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Virginia, Vermont and Wisconsin.
LGBTQ Elected Officials Join Equality Marches Across the Nation; Urge LGBTQ People to Run for Office
Washington, DC - June 11, 2017 – LGBTQ elected officials joined Equality Marches and Pride parades across the nation this weekend to protest the anti-LGBTQ forces emboldened by the election of Donald Trump. Since January, LGBTQ elected leaders have introduced and proposed hundreds of bills aimed at mitigating the effects of anti-equality legislation and policies passed by state legislatures and the administration. Victory Institute partnered with LGBTQ elected officials throughout the weekend to encourage people to run for office and make change.
US Rep. Gwen Moore Recognizes LGBT Pride Month
In recognition of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) released the following statement:"As a proud member of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, I recognize the great strides we've made during the Obama Administration in securing equality for all Americans, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Yet, as President Donald Trump has demonstrated during his short tenure, such progress is fragile and susceptible to attack, underscoring the need for us to remain vigilant and visible.
Civil and Human Rights Coalition: Senate Should Reject Damien M. Schiff
WASHINGTON - June 9, 2017 - The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights today sent a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee urging senators to reject President Trump's nomination of Damien M. Schiff to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims.
Equality Pennsylvania Executive Director Ted Martin Departing at end of June
HARRISBURG, Pa. - At its board of directors meeting on June 4, 2017, the Board of Directors of Equality Pennsylvania accepted the resignation of Executive Director Ted Martin. Martin's last day with the organization will be June 30, 2017.
Pulse Shooting Day Of Remembrance Brings Together LGBTQ, Muslim, And Latinx Communities
Washington, D.C.-The undersigned 59 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ), American Muslim, and Latinx organizations released the following statement in advance of the first day of remembrance of the June 12, 2016 massacre at the LGBTQ nightclub Pulse in Orlando, Florida. The statement was convened by national civil rights organizations including Muslim Advocates, the National LGBTQ Task Force, the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) "One year ago, in the aftermath of the Orlando tragedy, we came together in grief, in unity, and in solidarity with the Orlando community and millions of people everywhere, to condemn this act of hate violence and affirm that love conquers hate. That senseless act struck at the heart of the LGBTQ and Latinx communities, families, and close friends, and at the core of one of our nation's greatest strengths: our diversity. The ensuing backlash against the American Muslim community led to hate speech and violence, shootings, and mosque vandalism that claimed even more victims.
One Year Since the Orlando Massacre
June 9, 2017 - Almost one year ago, a gunman who pledged himself to ISIS showered bullets in an Orlando nightclub and carried out the most deadly shooting in US modern history. On that night alone, 49 people were killed and many others injured. The attack happened on Latin Night at a gay bar named Pulse. Following the attack, vigils were held across the world, leaders spoke out in solidarity with those that lost their lives, and the United Nations Security Council issued a historic statement acknowledging the attack and its anti-gay bias.
Eight Equality California Bills Clear Houses of Origin
Sacramento - June 8, 2017 -Eight bills sponsored by Equality California cleared their houses of origin last week in the California Legislature.
GLSEN Responds As Sec. DeVos Refuses To Commit To Protecting LGBTQ Students
(New York, NY) - June 7, 2017 - In a Senate hearing on June 6, Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos referred to discrimination against LGBTQ students as an area of "unsettled" law, and repeatedly evaded questions on the subject by deferring to federal law, leaving the issue as a matter for the courts and Congress. GLSEN's Director of Public Policy, Nathan Smith, released the following statement in response: "Simply deferring to current federal law is a wholly inadequate response when students across the country face denial of their most basic rights, particularly when Secretary DeVos remains opaque about her Department's interpretation of that law. It matters little whether Secretary DeVos personally opposes discrimination, as she repeatedly avowed in the hearing; the onus is on the Department of Education to fulfill its responsibility to enforce students' civil rights, and to provide a clear answer affirming that LGBTQ students have a right to attend school free from discrimination."
Civil and Human Rights Coalition: Senate Should Reject John K. Bush
WASHINGTON - June 7, 2017 - The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights today sent a letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee urging senators to reject President Trump's nomination of John K. Bush to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.
Retired Generals Urge Secretary Mattis Not to Reinstate 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' for Transgender Troops
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - June 7, 2017 – In response to recent news reports that the Defense Department may reinstate "don't ask, don't tell" for transgender individuals because of resistance by some military leaders and social conservatives, three retired General Officers issued the following statement: "Anonymous sources report that senior military leaders are calling for the return of 'don't ask, don't tell' for transgender troops, but extensive research on LGBT service in the U.S. and abroad has repeatedly found that treating all troops according to the same standards promotes readiness:
Civil and Human Rights Coalition Responds to Secretary DeVos' Testimony
WASHINGTON - June 6, 2017 -Vanita Gupta, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement in response to Secretary DeVos' testimony today before the Senate Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee: "We were glad to hear Secretary DeVos restate the law today – that recipients of federal funds must follow federal law and may not discriminate against any student on the basis of disability, race, ethnicity, immigration status, language, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation. But words alone are insufficient. She must use her authority as Secretary to make that prohibition and those protections for students real. The Department must also proactively support schools to prevent discrimination and intervene when the law is broken. This can't just be about talk; students need and deserve action."
Civil Rights Leaders Call for Scrutiny of DeVos' Commitment to Civil Rights and Students
WASHINGTON – Ahead of U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos' Senate testimony before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee on Tuesday, several national civil rights leaders spoke out on the implications of DeVos' alarming lack of commitment to protecting all students' civil rights.
Rep Suzan DelBene to Introduce Bipartisan Bill Adding LGBT Representation to Minority Veterans Advisory Committee
SEATTLE - June 5, 2017 – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) today heard from local LGBT veterans about their experiences accessing healthcare and benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). When Congress returns this week, DelBene will reintroduce her bipartisan bill, the Voices for Veterans Act, to reauthorize and expand the VA's Advisory Committee on Minority Veterans to include LGBT veterans in its membership and scope.
New York LGBTQ Leader Attacks Trump For Not Recognizing Pride Month
June 4, 2017 - LGBT Network CEO David Kilmnick today blasted President Donald Trump, who has yet to declare June as Pride Month despite issuing more than a dozen proclamations – even one for "Financial Capability Month" since he took office in January.
Health
Foundation Offers Scholarships to Pa. Medical Students
HARRISBURG, Pa. -The Foundation of the Pennsylvania Medical Society offers several scholarships available to Pennsylvania residents enrolled in fully accredited medical schools.
San Diego Therapist Michael Dale Kimmel Releases Gay Man's Guide to Open and Monogamous Marriage
San Diego, CA – Psychotherapist and author, Michael Dale Kimmel, announces the release of The Gay Man's Guide to Open and Monogamous Marriage(ISBN 9781442268012), a nonfiction handbook for gay couples that provides an easy-to-follow, practical framework for helping create, adjust, and structure their marriages.
National HIV Testing Day Revision Due to Cancellation of a Testing Site
Please note that the National HIV Testiing Day site for Tuesday, June 27 at Desired Designs Salon HAS BEEN CANCELLED. Testing at Community Health Net, 1202 State St from 1-3 PM on Tuesday June 27, is still on!
AHF: Medicaid Changes in U.S. Senate's Health Bill Are 'Gasoline on the Fire of U.S. AIDS Epidemic'
WASHINGTON (June 22, 2017) In response to the release of the U.S. Senate version of the American Health Care Act (AHCA) earlier today, AIDS Healthcare Foundation(AHF), the largest global AIDS organization, released the following statement: "From what we can see today, the changes to Medicaid put forth in the Senate version of the American Health Care Act will be gasoline on the fire of the U.S. AIDS epidemic," said Michael Weinstein, president of AIDS Healthcare Foundation. "Medicaid is the main safety net program for low-income people, with or without HIV, and cutting this program will have devastating impacts on individuals, communities and the entire healthcare system. It was not that many years ago that we had long wait lists for ADAP, which will undoubtedly return if Medicaid is drastically cut. AHF urges the U.S. Senate to go back to the drawing board and work on a measure that provides health care coverage for all Americans. This current draft would create a public health disaster especially for people living with HIV and those most at risk for acquiring HIV."
New AHF Billboards Warn of 'Syphilis Tsunami'
LOS ANGELES (June 19, 2017) - AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has launched its latest outdoor advertising campaign with new billboards warning of a "Syphilis Tsunami" going up around Los Angeles and other U.S. cities this week.
Love, friendship and Soul Mates
Have you heard people talk about their "soul mate"? This perfectly-designed person is your ideal match. God sent them just for you. There is no other person on earth who would be such a good match.
Alabama legislation stops short of banning sexual orientation conversion therapy
from ABC News - A newly passed Alabama state law lauded as protection for teenagers at faith-based youth programs was stripped of language that would have restricted sexual orientation conversion therapy following pressure from a conservative policy group with close ties to the bill's sponsor.
Massachusetts High Court Rules in Favor of Needle Distribution Programs
June 14, 2017 - In a decision with critical implications for the state's efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and reduce transmission of HIV and Hepatitis C, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court today ruled unanimously that needle access programs such as those run by HIV service programs, community health initiatives or other social service agencies are legal without restriction under state law. The decision can be viewed at https://www.glad.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/asgcc-v-barnstable-sjc.pdf
AIDS United Releases Consensus Statement for Providing Trans-Affirming HIV Medical Care, Support Services and Funding
WASHINGTON, D.C. - June 5, 2017 - In a community-created consensus statement released today, AIDS United provides critical guidance for clinical providers, funders and social service providers to strengthen their understanding of how best to engage and support transgender communities. The statement provides concrete and measurable steps organizations can take to improve their approach to HIV work in transgender communities and was drafted by 12 transgender leaders at a think tank convened by AIDS United and generously supported by Janssen Therapeutics, Division of Janssen Products, LP.
HIV prevention study looking for Native American male participants
The Virtual Two-Spirit project is a culturally-grounded, online HIV prevention intervention for Native American and Alaska Native men who have sex with men. The intervention facilitates positive sexual health behaviors and promotes HIV risk harm reduction strategies. Eligible participants who complete the three-week intervention and online assessments can receive up to $190 in incentives.
Spirituality and Religion
Faith in America Makes History With Volunteers and Message About Saving Kids to Southern Baptist Convention
Phoenix, AZ - June 13, 2017 -- Today, Faith in America has organized medical professionals, clergy, and a coalition of volunteers in Phoenix in an unprecedented effort to focus the nation's largest protestant denomination on what they must be doing to not harm and, instead, protect America's teens and kids who are LGBT.
Faith In America Billboards Highlighting Impact on Kids from Religious Condemnation Surround Southern Baptist Convention
PHOENIX - June 12, 2017 --Faith in America unveiled its campaign of digital and truck billboards that will surround the Southern Baptists Convention this week, highlighting the impact of religious condemnation on LGBT Kids. The two key messages of the billboards center around the fact that LGBT kids in condemning households are 8x more likely to try to kill themselves, and that 40% of all homeless teens are LGBT.
Faith In America Announces Coalition Partner Organizations Joining Save-yOur-Kid Campaign at Southern Baptist Meeting
Phoenix, AZ - June 11, 2017 --Today, Faith in America announces the coalition partners joining together to engage non-affirming religious denominations around solutions to the harm religious disapproval cause to LGBT children. The coalition groups will add their direct experience working with and supporting LGBT children who have been forced out of their homes onto the streets and who are at greatest risk of trafficking and suicide.
Faith In America Announces Clergy Traveling to Phoenix to Speak for LGBT Youth During Southern Baptist Meeting
Washington, D.C. - June 7, 2017 --Today, Faith in America announces details regarding clergy participating in the unprecedented effort to focus the nation's largest protestant denomination on what they must be doing to not harm and, instead, protect America's teens and kids who are LGBT.
United Methodist Church commissions first non-binary trans person as a Deacon
Chicago - The first openly non-binary trans person was commissioned as a deacon in The United Methodist Church (The UMC) on Sunday, June 4th in the Northern Illinois Annual Conference. Rev. M Barclay, who uses singular they pronouns, is appointed by Bishop Sally Dyck to serve as a deacon at Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN). RMN advocates for the full inclusion of LGBTQ persons in The UMC.
Letters, Columnists and Opinion
Chicago Dyke March: Full of shame!
From Philadelphia Gay News: Hard headline, so let me make it more clear. Whoever is in charge of the Chicago Dyke March has their heads up their asses. If you've read this column before, you've never read language like that from me before, but I'll let you judge. Here are the facts: About 1,500 people gathered to be a part of the Chicago Dyke March earlier this month. As with many LGBT events, people bring their own posters, picket signs and flags. There were signs representing many views at this march but organizers asked only one group to leave: three women with rainbow flags with a Star of David superimposed on them.
Rainbow flag - bringing us together?
From Philadelphia Gay News: (This year's protest at Gay Pride celebrations at various events around the nation on a host of issues led me to pen this op-ed) There is no question that the rainbow flag has become the symbol of our community's fight for equality. And that flag that the community embraces has gone through changes but never any that have been so publicized as the recent updates that were made to it in Philadelphia. That makes me want to ask, What's all the fuss about?
My take on this year's Gay Pride controversies
From Philadelphia Gay News: Pride is very special to me, since I helped in the first Gay Pride march in 1970. At that time it was not a "Gay Pride" march, but rather a march to show - using today's terms - our resistance to society's portrayal of us. It was also a celebration of what we created in the year since the Stonewall Riots. But mostly, it was a statement that we no longer would be in the closet. We were out loud and in your face!
A Sadder PRIDE because of Washington Inaction
Every June, PRIDE comes to our cities and towns. We break out the rainbow flags, march in parades, and celebrate our uniqueness and being together. But as PRIDE Month starts, this year feels different.
The Amazon Trail: A Tenth Anniversary at Sea
We had every intention of being homebodies this year. No travel at all, just a year to save our pennies and get grounded. It's been delicious. After several months of staying in our little coastal home, my mind is sharper, my sleep schedule is approaching normal, and I've got a good start on my next book.
Contests
Enter for a chance to win an Urban Cone Old School prize pack!
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Enter for a chance to win Dirty Dancing TV Special DVD!
Enter for a chance to win Dirty Dancing TV Special DVD! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, July 14 and Friday, August 4.
Enter to win Do You Take This Man DVD from Breaking Glass Pictures!
Enter to win Do You Take This Man DVD from Breaking Glass Pictures! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, July 11 and Tuesday, August 1.
Enter to win a digital download of TRANS/gressive by Riki Wilchins from Riverdale Avenue Books!
Enter to win a digitial download of TRANS/gressive by Riki Wilchins from Riverdale Avenue Books! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, July 7 and Friday, July 28.
Enter to win a copy of Good Time from Charlie Wilson ft. Pitbull!
Enter to win a copy of Good Time from Charlie Wilson ft. Pitbull! "GOOD TIME", the new single from the legendary former Gap Band frontman CHARLIE WILSON ft. Pitbull. Win "Good Time" remix download cards with remixes by Moto Blanco, Lenno and more! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, July 4 and Tuesday, July 25.
Enter to win Dancing Dirty by Ryan Field from Riverdale Avenue Books!
Enter to win Dancing Dirty by Ryan Field from Riverdale Avenue Books! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, July 4 and Tuesday, July 25.
Enter to win Blue Room from Jonathan Cavier!
Enter to win Blue Room from Jonathan Cavier! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Friday, June 30 and Friday, July 21.
Enter for a chance to win a The Beguiled prize pack!
Enter for a chance to win a The Beguiled prize pack! Good girls go bad. Focus Features presents The Beguiled. An atmospheric thriller from acclaimed writer/director Sofia Coppola, winner of the Best Director award at the Cannes International Film Festival. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, June 27 and Tuesday, July 18.
Enter to win I Am Peaceman from Sir Ivan ft. Debbie Gibson!
Enter to win I Am Peaceman USB drive from Sir Ivan ft. Debbie Gibson! “I AM PEACEMAN” ft. DEBBIE GIBSON. the new single from Billboard chart topper and “Peaceman” SIR IVAN. Win special USB drives including "I Am Peaceman" plus remixes by 7th Heaven, Riddler, Ali Dee and more! To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, June 27 and Tuesday, July 18.
Enter to win Katy Perry prizes!
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Enter to win 3 Generations Blu-ray!
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Enter for a chance to win a Rough Night bachelorette party prize pack!
Enter for a chance to win a Rough Night bachelorette party prize pack! Columbia Pictures presents Rough Night. Great friends. Terrible choices. To enter the contest, fill out the form here between Tuesday, June 13 and Tuesday, July 4.
History
America's newest museum recognizes LGBTs in our revolution
America's newest museum, Museum Of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, does something quite revolutionary: It recognizes the LGBT community as having played a part of that revolution. And it does so with several exhibits.
Miscellaneous
NYC'S Leading Gay Party Producer Announces PRIDE WITH A PURPOSE
In celebration of New York's Pride Month, party producer Jake Resnicow is launching 'Pride With A Purpose'. He is calling for the LGBTQ community to volunteer at least eight hours of their time this month for a charitable LGBTQ cause. In exchange, he will give a free weekend pass to his Pride events, including Matinee Main Event, M.E.A.T and Luvboat, a $600 value.
Pride Events Expected to Attract Significant Increases in Attendance in 2017: New CMI Study
The Community Marketing & Insights (CMI) 11th Annual LGBT Community Survey®, fielded in April/May 2017, drew participation from 17,300 LGBTQ Americans across the spectrum of sexual orientations, gender identities, generations and ethnicities. It is the largest, longest-running study of its kind; a profile of community members involved in hundreds of LGBTQ media, websites, blogs, social media, apps, organizations and events.
One Year After the Pulse Massacre, Latino Leaders Pledge to Remember Lives Lost
WASHINGTON, D.C. June 12, 2017 – One year ago today, 49 innocent lives were taken by a gunman at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida. NHLA stands in solidarity with our LGBTQ and Latino/x communities to mourn, honor, and remember those lost, injured, and traumatized in the only mass murder of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people in this country.
Securing Your First Mortgage
Are you ready to take the plunge into homeownership? Whether you're a couple ready to purchase a home, a same-sex couple who has married after years of partnership, or an individual who is tired of renting, the draw of putting down roots and owning property is often very alluring. But before you can proudly put out your welcome mat, you have to first find a great property you love and secure a mortgage. While it was once fairly easy to get financing for purchasing your first home, the housing market crash of 2008 has led to financers being a bit more cautious. They won't lend to just anyone now, so you need to be prepared for what's to come.
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