SEACOAST UTILITY AUTHORITY OFFERS DOMESTIC PARTNER BENEFITS Palm Beach County Human Rights Council
(Palm Beach Gardens, Florida) At tomorrow's Benefits Fair, Seacoast Utility Authority ("SUA") will inform employees with domestic partners that they will soon be eligible for all of the same family benefits that married employees have long received.
SUA, which furnishes water and sewer service to the City of Palm Beach Gardens, the Village of North Palm Beach, the Towns of Lake Park and Juno Beach, as well as to portions of unincorporated Palm Beach County, has 130 full time employees.
"Once again, informed managers have recognized the importance of providing family health care coverage and other benefits to to employees with domestic partners," said Rand Hoch, President of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council.
The Council is a local non-profit organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. Over the years, the Council has assisted numerous employers throughout Palm Beach County with the implementation of domestic partner benefits.
Of the 48 public and quasi-public employers throughout Florida which provide domestic partner benefits, one-third are located in Palm Beach County.
SUA Manager of Construction and Development Jim and his partner Richard Andreacchio first recognized the need for domestic partner benefits at work after Andreacchio's father became ill and died in 2007.
"The only way I could be with Richard as he cared for his father was to use up my vacation days," said Lance. "On his father's passing, there was no policy on bereavement leave which applied to our family."
As Andreacchio's father was passing, Lance's mother became terminally ill with cancer. She died in 2008.
"It hit home how married couples had long been afforded the right to care for their loved ones in times of emergencies," said Lance. "Although Richard and I lived together as a couple for more than a dozen years and registered our domestic partnership with Palm Beach County, we did not have those same rights."
Andreacchio teaches for the School District of Palm Beach County. While the School District offers health insurance for employees' domestic partner benefit, it does not permit employees with domestic partners to use family medical leave in the same manner as married employees.
"I was with my mother towards the end of her life and Richard's principal at the time would not allow him to take off work to help out," said Lance. "My mother was dying and I was going through the most tragic personal event of my life without my partner beside me for support and comfort."
Following his mother's passing, Lance contacted the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council and arranged a meeting between Council President Hoch and Andrea Holmes, SUA's Director of Administrative Services.
"While the Council brought a comprehensive report on domestic partnership benefits to the meeting, it was obvious that Andrea Holmes had already done research on her own," said Hoch.
The two reviewed the Authority's existing policies and discussed proposals that would have to be brought before the SUA Directors for their approval.
"I left the meeting confident that by year's end, Seacost Utility Authority would offer the full range of family benefits to employees with domestic partners," said Hoch. "Jim Lance and Andrea Holmes deserve the credit for making this happen."
In addition to the family health, dental and vision insurance, the Authority's will also extend sick leave and bereavement leave to families based on domestic partnerships. The benefits go into effect on January 1.
"I no longer need to worry that my domestic partnership is viewed any differently at Seacoast Utility Authority than the relationship of a married couple," said Lance.
The Palm Beach County Human Rights Council currently is working with other local public employers, urging them to consider providing domestic partner benefits. These include the Cities of Boca Raton and Boynton Beach, the Towns of Lake Park and Palm Beach, the Village of North Palm Beach and Florida Atlantic University. [12/2/08]
CENTERLINK TO EXPAND NATIONAL SUPPORT FOR LGBT CENTERS Guido Sanchez, former Executive Director of Pride Connections Center of New Jersey, to join CenterLink as National Manager of Membership and Development Washington DC - CenterLink, the Community of LGBT Centers, announced the hiring of Guido Sanchez as National Manager of Membership and Development. In this new role, Sanchez will report directly to CenterLink Executive Director Terry Stone and will be responsible for strengthening CenterLink's support programs for LGBT community centers across the globe, as well as working with key partners, donors, and foundations for the community center movement's long term development. > Full Story. [12/2/08]
HRC STATEMENT ON APPOINTMENT OF ERIC HOLDER AS U.S. ATTORNEY GENERAL The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights group, today praised President-Elect Barack Obama's selection of Eric Holder as Attorney General of the United States. The former deputy attorney general in the Clinton Administration proved himself to be a strong advocate for fairness and basic rights and an unswerving proponent of fully-inclusive federal hate crimes legislation. > Full Story. [12/2/08]
FEDERAL EMPLOYEE GROUPS URGE GOVERNMENT FOR PARTNER BENEFITS WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, in conjunction with federal employee groups, today urged the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to support domestic partner benefits for federal civilian employees. Each fall, 8 million federal employees, retirees, and their dependents, are offered the opportunity to review the various health program options in a time period referred to as "open season." For lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender workers, this time draws attention to the existing inequality that they face when it comes to employer-provided benefits.
"The federal government should be the standard bearer for fair workplace practices," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "As long as it denies lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees the comprehensive family benefits that their heterosexual colleagues receive, the federal government will fall short of that standard, and continue to lag behind the nation's top employers."
This year, in addition to pouring over extensive information about 269 health-plan options, cost, and quality, LGBT civil servants are asking OPM to support covering their family members as well. The health benefits which the vast majority of workers obtain through their place of work, are not extended to domestic partners of federal civil servants. While their colleagues are worried about increasing co-pays and deductibles, LGBT employees struggle to come up with 100% of the cost of insuring their partners.
Expressing her support for the issue, Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus co-chair, Representative Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) stated, "Only when we eliminate discriminatory practices in the workplace will we allow both employees and businesses to reach their full potential. As an employer, the federal government must not only set an example, but must compete with corporate America for the best-qualified workforce. Offering domestic partner benefits is a means toward both ends."
"The most frequent concern we hear expressed by our members is the need for fairness in health benefits for their partners and families, and in having equal compensation with heterosexual employees," said Len Hirsch, president of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Employees of the Federal Government, also known as Federal GLOBE, a group that has pressed for domestic partner benefits since its inception in 1992.
Through an online website, individuals have the opportunity to write to OPM and express their desire for equal benefits. While the incoming administration has expressed its support for the right to equal health insurance and other employment benefits, encouraging OPM to support LGBT families improves the prospects for achieving that goal. To write to the Office of Personnel Management, visit: http://www.hrcactioncenter.org/campaign/opm_dpb
The benefits programs include the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB), which is used by members of congress, as well as the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Program, and the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program. "We hope that Members of Congress will extend health benefits to all Federal employees' families – including the families of Members' own staff," said Derek Dorn, co-chair of the Gay, Lesbian, Allied Senate Staff (GLASS) Caucus.
"Adopting fair policies in the treatment of domestic partner benefits will not only benefit current LGBT employees of Congress, it will enable the entire government to draw highly qualified LGBT Americans, who may otherwise elect to work elsewhere, to careers in public service, " said Victor Castillo, co-founder of the Lesbian & Gay Congressional Staff Association (LGCSA).
The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [12/2/08]
ON WORLD AIDS DAY LAMBDA LEGAL URGES PRESIDENT-ELECT BARACK OBAMA TO CONSIDER CRITICAL HIV CIVIL RIGHTS ISSUES (New York, Dec. 1, 2008) -- This World AIDS Day, December 1, 2008, Lambda Legal urges the new administration of President-Elect Barack Obama to reverse policies that have challenged the human and civil rights of people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States. > Full Story. [12/1/08]
GMHC COMMEMORATES 20TH YEAR OF WORLD AIDS DAY New York, NY, Wednesday, November 26 - In recognition of December 1, GMHC is proud to announce World AIDS Day as a dedicated "HIV/AIDS Volunteer Awareness Day" that reflects on the state of the domestic HIV/AIDS epidemic, President-Elect Obama's commitment to a National AIDS Strategy, and role of volunteering in the AIDS movement. > Full Story. [12/1/08]
PRIDE LONDON VOTED BEST CULTURAL CELEBRATION Pride London has been awarded a prestigious Gold Award for Best Celebration of Cultural Diversity at the Visit London Awards 2008. > Full Story. [12/1/08]
GLAAD URGES SHARING YOUR LIVES WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY Los Angeles, CA, November 26, 2008 – As we enter the holiday season, GLAAD asks you to remember members of our community who feel they cannot be themselves, talk about their lives, and stay silent as they gather with families and friends during the holiday season. Often times, the holiday season can be a difficult time of year for members of our community – especially teenagers and young adults who are not able to live openly and honestly. > Full Story. [12/1/08]
GAY AMERICAN HEROES FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES IMPRESSIVE LIST OF NEW BOARD MEMBERS Fort Lauderdale, FL (November 26, 2008) -- The Gay American Heroes Foundation (GAHF) is pleased to announce the appointment of several new members to its various Boards: ANT, Stewart Milk, Cynthia Nixon, Daniel O'Donnell and Chuck Panozzo have been appointed to our Honorary Board; Leanna Bradley, Chuck Dima and Richard Stickly to the Advisory Board and Dr. Rodrick Hurt to the Board of Directors.
ANTANT is a Greek-American stand-up comedian and actor. He prefers his name spelled in all capital letters. He is the host of VH1 reality series Celebrity Fit Club and was a regular judge of talent on Steve Harvey's Big Time. His television series, U.S. of ANT, premiered on MTV Network's gay-targeted Logo cable channel in the summer of 2006. Ant also frequently appears as a commentator on such shows as VH1's Best Week Ever and CNBC's Dennis Miller, and is a regular guest on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno as well as "The Howard Stern Show".
Stweart Milk Stuart Milk, the youngest of Harvey Milk's two nephews and a teen when his uncle was killed, came out of the closet the night of November 27, 1978 along with thousands of other members of the LGBT community across the US. He has been the Milk family voice and spokesperson on his uncle's legacy and a frequent participant at memorial and commemorative events for the last several years in San Francisco. > Full Story. [12/1/08]
HRC HAILS FLORIDA COURT RULING ALLOWING GAY FATHER TO ADOPT WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender civil rights organization, today lauded the decision by a Miami, Florida judge that allows a man who has since 2004 acted as a foster parent to two boys to move forward with proceedings to adopt them. Florida currently bans adoption by lesbians and gays through one of the strictest laws in the country. Today, Miami Dade Circuit Judge Cindy Lederman ruled that the ban has "no rational basis." > Full Story. [11/25/08]
HRC FOUNDATION TO LAUNCH ADOPTION AWARENESS CAMPAIGN WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, will hold a media availability on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. ET to unveil an innovative adoption awareness campaign targeting the LGBT community. November is National Adoption Month, during which attention is focused on the thousands of children waiting to be adopted by loving parents. The campaign is part of the HRC Foundation's "All Children – All Families" initiative, designed to find permanent families for children by promoting fairness for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender foster and adoptive parents.
"This awareness campaign helps make the dreams of thousands of children come true by raising the visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender-adoptive families and encourage prospective parents to learn more about the children waiting in foster care," said Ellen Kahn, Family Project Director for Human Rights Campaign Foundation. "With more than a half million children in the U.S. foster care system, we can take steps to support the efforts of courts, judges, attorneys, adoption professionals, child welfare agencies and advocates to finalize adoptions and find permanent, loving homes for children, giving them the opportunity to can grow, thrive and succeed."
Of the children in the U.S. foster care system, over 120,000 are awaiting adoption by loving, permanent families. Agencies may purposefully or inadvertently close the door to qualified families through their practices. Few agencies recruit LGBT adoptive & foster parents, and many LGBT people feel unwelcome or discouraged. Similarly, members of the LGBT community may not be aware of the opportunities in domestic adoption and foster care, or they may not know of agencies that welcome their families. We are working to break down the barriers that stand between thousands of loving, qualified LGBT adoptive parents and the thousands of children who are waiting for a family.
The "All Children – All Families" initiative, launched in 2007 by the HRC Family Project, works to ensure that all qualified prospective parents who wish to open their homes and hearts to children and youth have the opportunity to do so, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The program seeks to enhance LGBT competence among child welfare professionals and educate LGBT people about opportunities to become foster or adoptive parents to waiting children. Thirty-four agencies from across the U.S are currently participating, and more than a dozen agencies are close to earning the seal of recognition. More information about the initiative can be found at www.hrc.org/acaf.
WHAT: HRC to unveil the "Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Family" adoption awareness campaign
WHEN: Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. ET
WHERE: Human Rights Campaign Headquarters, 1640 Rhode Island Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036
WHO: Ellen Kahn, director for HRC Family Project; Janice Goldwater, executive director for Adoptions Together, member of "All Children – All Families" advisory board. Adoptions Together, a Silver Spring, Md. based adoption agency, is a local partner in All Children-All Families.
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [11/21/08]
HRC HONORS TRANSGENDER DAY OF REMEMBRANCE WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, will honor Transgender Day of Remembrance on Thursday, November 20, 2008. The 10th Annual Transgender Day of Remembrance is a solemn tribute to those who have lost their lives to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice and also aims to raise awareness of the constant threat of brutality faced by the transgender community.
"This year is one of the worst on record for the number of hate crimes in the transgender community and together we honor the memories of our transgender sisters and brothers lost to hatred and prejudice," said Allyson Robinson, Associate Director of Diversity at the Human Rights Campaign. "The most highly publicized murders in the transgender community this year had included Lawrence King and Angie Zapata. Then last week we learned that Duanna Johnson, the transgender woman who in July was bludgeoned by police officers, had been murdered execution-style on the streets of Memphis. And just this week came word of the shooting death of Latiesha Greenin Syracuse, New York, by someone she had only met hours before. All told, at least fifteen transgender people have been murdered in hate crimes in the U.S. this year alone."
Transgender Day of Remembrance is held in November to honor Rita Hester, whose murder in 1998 led tothe "Remembering Our Dead" web project and a San Francisco candlelight vigil in 1999. Since then, the event has grown to encompass memorials in dozens of cities, including Washington, D.C. The Human Rights Campaign is asking its staff, volunteers, and other members of the community to be actively involved in Transgender Day of Remembrance activities throughout the country. The National Capital Area's annual observance in Washington, D.C. will be held at Metropolitan Community Church. For a complete list of vigils and remembrances around the world, visit www.transgenderdor.org.
The Human Rights Campaign media center produced an awareness video ahead of Transgender Day of Remembrance. To view the video and for further information on transgender education, visit www.hrc.org/transgender.
WHAT: The National Capital Area's annual observance of the Transgender Day of Remembrance
WHEN: Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. ET
WHERE: Metropolitan Community Church, 474 Ridge Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
METRO: Green/Yellow line; Mount Vernon Square/7th Street Convention Center station
PHONE: Call (202) 904-9969 for more information, to donate, or to volunteer.
The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [11/20/08]
CALIFORNIA SUPREME COURT GRANTS REVIEW IN PROP 8 LEGAL CHALLENGES (San Francisco, California, November 19, 2008)-Today the California Supreme Court granted review in the legal challenges to Proposition 8, which passed by a narrow margin of 52 percent on November 4. In an order issued today, the Court agreed to hear the case and set an expedited briefing schedule. The Court also denied an immediate stay. > Full Story. [11/20/08]
THE OBAMA-BIDEN TRANSITION TEAM POSTS PLANS FOR GAY RIGHTS The President-elect Barack Obama transition team and agenda website change.gov has listed comprehensive plans for the nation, including plans for LGBT rights. > Full Story. [11/18/08]
EQCA CALLS FOR END OF ATTACKS ON GOVERNOR FOR SUPPORTING EQUAL RIGHTS SACRAMENTO – Equality California calls on leaders of the Yes on 8 campaign to end their attacks on Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger for saying he believes Proposition 8 should be overturned. Prop 8 eliminates the right of same-sex couples to marry in California. > Full Story. [11/17/08]
GAYS, LESBIANS, TRANSGENDER, THEIR FAMILIES AND SUPPORTERS UNITE – LARGE SCALE NATIONAL PROTEST PLANNED FOR NOVEMBER 15 Over the last week, tens of thousands of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT)community and their Supporters have taken to the streets of California to show their outrage with the outcome of California Proposition 8. Prop 8 provides for a Constitutional Amendment to prohibit same-sex marriage rights; Similar amendments and propositions were passed in Arizona and Florida. The outcome of these propositions has angered the national gay community and their supporters. Many feel as if they are now second-class citizens, but, according to the No on 8Campaign, the fight is not over. The final statement released by the No on 8 Campaign stated,"Victory was not ours today. But the struggle for Equality is not over." > Full Story. [11/14/08]
GAY IS THE NEW BLACK? NEW YORK - Election Day 2008 brought mixed civil rights progress in America. Barack Obama made history becoming the first African-American President in US history, while voters in California, Florida, Arizona and Arkansas passed statewide anti-gay initiatives. In the wake of California's passage of Proposition 8, which revoked same-sex marriage rights, protests are being organized around the country, with marches on City Halls in all 50 states scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2008. In the midst of this nationwide response, the Advocate is asking the question on many peoples' minds: is gay the new Black? > Full Story. [11/14/08]
CONNECTICUT BEGINS GRANTING MARRIAGE LICENSES TO SAME-SEX COUPLES "Today's actions in Connecticut signal a new and hopeful day," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese > Full Story. [11/12/08]
JOIN THE IMPACT - NATIONAL PROTEST PROP 8 ON NOVEMBER 15TH!
Be part of the next Civil Rights Movement - Be part of history - Join the National Protest / March for Equality on November 15th!
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WE NEED VOLUNTEERS! Now is your chance to be a "community organizer"! Go to the website and post if you are willing to volunteer to help get out the word in your city. We need 3 or 4 dedicated volunteers in each town to contact the clubs and organizations in your area and to print/distribute flyers to get a turnout in your town.
This is not a California issue. This is an issue of equality across America. Stand up and make your voice heard. Visit the website www.jointheimpact.com.]
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SATURDAY NOV 15TH -
10:30AM WEST COAST
11:30AM MOUNTIAN TIME ZONE
12:30PM CENTRAL TIME ZONE
1:30PM EAST COAST
PRINT OUT THE SIGNS - TAKE THEM TO THE PROTEST
Prop 8 Protest: A Call to the LGBTQ Community, Friends, & Family
I’m sure all would agree that with the election of Barack Obama, this week has been one of amazing wins in the world of equality! Still, Tuesday night was a bitter-sweet celebration. We came together to witness the first black man who will become our president, yet watched in sadness as Florida, Arizona, Arkansas, and California all voted down equal rights for all citizens. Pundits and bloggers alike have put their focus on Proposition 8, trying hard to find an explanation for the anti-gay wins in the face of a huge swell of support for equality elsewhere. Some have blamed the voters, others blame religious groups, and even others blame the LGBTQ community for not being able to mobilize on a larger enough scale. And you know what? There is truth in each argument.
As a community, we have to admit to the fact that we are polarized in various ways. Honestly, I’m not sure what community isn’t and I believe that our polarization is proof to our humanity - we are no different than anyone else, regardless of color, creed, or sexual orientation. Still, our polarization has hindered us from mobilizing as one strong voice. We all come together in the month of June to celebrate Gay Pride, but few of us are even aware of why Gay Pride exists. Gay Pride is a celebration to commemorate the Stonewall Riots of 1969. Many say that the Gay Rights Movement began in 1969, which means that we are still a young movement and have accomplished a great deal in such a short amount of time. The generation that fought for us in 1969 deserves our gratitude and respect. This is a generation of amazing people who fought for our ability to hold hands in the street, to speak out against hate, to dance to our own “thumpa thump”, witness television shows with a queer cast, and come together in the streets celebrating for an entire month! This is the generation that opened the doors for us to even have a conversation about gay marriage, and this is the generation that deserves our help and our voices now. On June 27th, 1969, this generation came together in protest, jumping from closets, taking to the streets, and mobilizing in ways this country had never seen before! And what happened? The country was forced to respond. The Queer identity was forced onto the front pages and coffee tables of people’s worlds and people had to once and for all accept that we are human too!
Now, almost 40 years later we NEED to come together again. We need to show this nation that we are ONE LOUD VOICE THAT DEMANDS TO BE HEARD! We need to be one organized unit. Our gay pride shouldn’t be something we celebrate one month out of the year. Our gratitude towards the ones who came before us shouldn’t be ignored and wasted away with one party after another. We beg to be given a right that requires responsibility and commitment, yet we, as one strong community, have not proven to this nation that we deserve to be taken seriously! The gay pride parade has become a great party, but it has lost the memory of Stonewall and therefor given the nation another reason to cast us aside as irresponsible. It’s time we come together for debate, for public recognition, and for LOVE! Let’s move as one full unit, on the same day, at the same hour, and let’s show the United States of America that we too are UNITED CITIZENS EQUAL IN MIND, BODY, SPIRIT AND DESERVING OF FULL EQUALITY UNDER THE LAW!
On the steps of your City Hall on November 15th at 10:30am PST / 1:30pm EST, our community WILL take to the streets and speak out against Proposition 8 and all of the other pro-equality losses that we have faced in our lifetimes, in our parents’ lifetimes, and for many generations before us. WE CAN’T DO THIS ALONE! WE NEED YOUR HELP! We need organizers in every major city to work with us and get out the protest! I know you’re all tired from all of the work you’ve done for this great election year, but I’m asking for one more push! Let the country hear our voices together. Let them see that we are a strong, adamant, and powerful community that deserves equal rights, and CAN’T BE DEFEATED!
Send this post to everyone! We have one week and must react to the pro-hate votes cast against us! Let’s help our LGBTQ friends, families, neighbors, and each other to IMPACT this country with a demand for our basic human rights! Join the cause, join the voice, and JOIN THE IMPACT!
GOVERNOR CALLS PROPOSITION 8 PASSAGE “UNFORTUNATE” In CNN Interview, Gov. Schwarzenegger Says Prop 8 Should be Invalidated Because Court Has Ruled that Banning the Right to Marry is Unconstitutional > Full Story. [11/10/08]
NATIONAL PROTEST OF PROP 8 Join the Impact is a group that is organizing a nationwide protest against Proposition 8, the measure which banned gay marriage in California last Tuesday. > Full Story. [11/10/08]
CALL ON CLEAR CHANNEL COMMUNICATIONS TO SANCTION SYNDICATED RADIO HOST JIM QUINN FOR DEFAMATORY COMMENTS; "GAY SEX PRODUCES AIDS" New York, NY, November 7, 2008 – On November 6, Jim Quinn of the nationally syndicated radio program, The War Room with Quinn & Rose, made defamatory statements about marriage for same-sex couples. As noted by Media Matters for America, "Discussing the passage of a California ballot initiative to amend the state constitution to ban same-sex marriage, radio host Jim Quinn asserted: '[G]ay marriage doesn't produce anything that the state has an interest in. Gay sex produces AIDS, which the state doesn't have – or should have an interest in. They should charge homosexuals more for their – for their health insurance than they charge the rest of us.'" > Full Story. [11/7/08]
LGBT BALLOT LOSSES DO NOT PREDICT THE FUTURE 'We are disappointed by the losses, but we are not discouraged. We don't think they predict the future - in fact, they are the last gasps of the past' (New York, November 5, 2008) - Lambda Legal Executive Director, Kevin Cathcart issued the following statement: > Full Story. [11/7/08]
REGENT MEDIA ANNOUNCES THE “ROCK THE FOLK OUT” TOUR November 6, 2008 (Los Angeles) – Regent Media announced today the partnership of OUT magazine with here! Tunes to present the Rock the Folk OUT Tour. This East Coast tour showcases incredible, live music from three gifted, gay singer songwriters. The fantastic bill boasts here! tunes recording artist Stewart Lewis, Los Angeles scene favorite Jake Walden, and acoustic performer Tom Goss. Each artist brings a unique flavor to the tour with their varied performance styles, but they are unified by an exceptional level of talent and poignant songwriting styles. This show is not to be missed! > Full Story. [11/7/08]
NATIONAL GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE ACTION FUND DEEPLY DISAPPOINTED IN PASSAGE OF CALIFORNIA’S PROPOSITION 8 The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund is deeply saddened and disappointed by the passage of California's Proposition 8, which will amend the state Constitution to eliminate the right to marry for same-sex couples. > Full Story. [11/6/08]
FOLLOWING STATE BALLOT VOTES ON LGBT EQUALITY IN THREE STATES, PFLAG AWAITS OUTCOME IN CALIFORNIA WASHINGTON, DC - Following disappointing votes rolling back or denying full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens in Florida, Arkansas and Arizona, Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) eagerly awaits the official results of Proposition 8 in California, and vows to continue working with pro-equality families and allies to build support for full, fundamental rights for the LGBT community. > Full Story. [11/6/08]
GAY CANDIDATES ELECTED ACROSS THE U.S. Washington, D.C.-Dozens of openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender candidates won election to public offices across the U.S. on Tuesday, according to the Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund. The group, which endorsed a record-breaking 111 candidates in 2008, said more than 70 percent of its endorsed candidates had won their races by early Wednesday. > Full Story. [11/6/08]
FAMILY EQUALITY COUNCIL REACTION TO OBAMA VICTORY Family Equality Council Congratulates President-Elect Obama First Presidential Candidate to Directly Address LGBT Family Issues Boston, MA Jennifer Chrisler, Executive Director of Family Equality Council, released this statement following the election of President-Elect Barack Obama: > Full Story. [11/5/08]
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN LAUDS 2008 ELECTION RESULTS WASHINGTON-Today the Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, celebrated the election of Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) as the 44th President of the United States and the election of pro-equality candidates across the country even as the organization awaits results from three states (California, Arizona, Florida) regarding discriminatory anti-marriage amendments. From the presidential primaries to state elections, during the 2008 election season the Human Rights Campaign carried out its largest electoral effort in the history of the organization. By helping to mobilize its members and the LGBT community, recruiting and training an army of grassroots political advocates, and strategically targeting high impact races, the Human Rights Campaign helped increase the number of fair-minded candidates that will support the equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. > Full Story. [11/5/08]
CHELSEA HANDLER TO HOST THE 15TH ANNUAL OUT100 AWARDS November 4, 2008 (New York) – Out magazine's December/January special double issue takes on an Old Hollywood theme to pay tribute to 100 actors, musicians, writers, fashion designers, politicians and social figures who have made significant strides in the gay community in 2008. To mark the issue's release, Out Editor in Chief Aaron Hicklin, along with Bristol Myers-Squibb and Regent Media CEO Paul Colichman, will host a high-energy, tastemaker awards event at Gotham Hall in New York City. > Full Story. [11/4/08]
CALL TO ACTION APPALLED AT CATHOLIC BISHOPS' DONATION CALL TO ACTION APPALLED AT BISHOPS' DONATION > Full Story. [10/31/08]
OBAMA HAS 65 POINT LEAD OVER MCCAIN AMONG GLBT LIKELY VOTERS ROCHESTER, N.Y. – October 30, 2008 – Over 8 out of 10 likely voters (81%) who self-identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) favor Senator Barack Obama for President over Senator John McCain. Only 16% of GLBT likely voters expressed a preference for John McCain. In August, when registered voters were asked the same Presidential preferences, 68% of GLBT voters favored Obama with 10% expressing support for McCain.
Among all likely voters Senator Barack Obama continues to lead Senator John McCain by six percentage points. This lead has not changed since The Harris Poll®, conducted one week earlier.
These are some of the results of The Harris Poll, a new nationwide survey of 2,303 U.S. adults, of whom 1,695 are likely voters, surveyed online between October 20 and 27, 2008 by Harris Interactive®. A separate oversample of 231 GLBT likely voters was also conducted.
This new poll shows Obama leading McCain by 50% to 44% of likely voters with 2% supporting Ralph Nader and 1% supporting the Libertarian candidate, Bob Barr.
Other interesting results of this new Harris Poll include: > Full Story. [10/31/08]
LONDON WINS WORLD PRIDE IN 2012 London has won the right to host World Pride in 2012. Led by Pride London with support from Visit London and the Mayor of London, London beat tough competition to be awarded the World Pride parade in 2012. > Full Story. [10/31/08]
FOUR CITIES NAMED FINALISTS FOR 2014 GAY GAMES Cape Town, South Africa (28 October 2008) -- Groups from Miami (Florida), Cleveland (Ohio) Boston (Massachusetts), and Washington (D.C.), have submitted letters of intent to bid for the ninth edition of the Gay Games, to be held in 2014, officials announced at the close of the Federation of Gay Games (FGG) annual meeting in Cape Town, South Africa. > Full Story. [10/30/08]
MULTI-FAITH LEADERS SUPPORT THE FREEDOM TO MARRY "In a time when war threatens and the economy teeters, do we really want to spend our time taking away the rights of two people who love each other enough to marry?" - Rev. Rebecca Voelkel, National Religious Leadership Roundtable > Full Story. [10/30/08]
NO ON PROP 8 WEBSITE UNDER ATTACK SACRAMENTO – 10/30/08 – Today the NO on Prop 8 campaign's Web site (http://www.noonprop8.com/) was the victim of what appears to be a coordinated attack designed to bring the system down. According to http://www.calitics.com/, the denial-of-service attack (DoS) on the NO on Prop 8 website occurred before 11:30pm, Wednesday, October 29th and coincides with a similar attack on Florida's NO on 2 campaign, the Constitutional Amendment Against Marriage Equality. > Full Story. [10/30/08]
SHARON GLESS TO STAR IN HANNAH FREE FILM Chicago - Sharon Gless is set to star in the new independent feature film, Hannah Free.
Hannah Free is the story of a lifelong love affair between an independent spirit and the woman she calls home.
Gless, star of popular television shows Cagney & Lacey, Queer As Folk and Burn Notice, will play Hannah, a fiercely independent woman who fights to see her partner one last time in a nursing home.
The screenplay is based on award-winning playwright Claudia Allen's popular stage play of the same name. Allen is a writer-in-residence at Victory Gardens Theatre in Chicago and has written more than 20 plays.
"I am delighted to be working with my friend Claudia Allen," said Gless, who previously performed in Allen's play, Cahoots. "This is a heartwarming story that is both funny and poignant. I look forward to working with a terrific cast in Chicago."
Other actors include Taylor Miller of All My Children fame, Kelli Strickland, Ann Hagemann, and Jacqui Jackson.
Hannah Free will be directed by Wendy Jo Carlton. Director of Photography is Gretchen Warthen. Executive producers are Tracy Baim and Claudia Allen. The film is being produced by Ripe Fruit Films, a Chicago-based production company, for distribution in 2009.
Hannah Free will be shot in and around the Chicago area in November 2008.
For more information, see www.HannahFree.com. > Full Story. [10/29/08]
HRC FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES WINNER OF COME OUT AND VOTE VIDEO CONTEST Watch the winning video: www.hrc.org/ComingOutContest
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, announced today the winner of an online video contest aimed at highlighting National Coming Out Day on October 11, 2008. In this crucial election year, individuals from around the country created a short video telling the world how they will come out and vote to make a difference in the hearts and minds of their friends, family, classmates, co-workers and country.
"This year's winner, Tyler Oakley, really captures the energy and spirit I've seen on college campuses across America. Tyler's message exemplifies the power of Generation Equality to change America - with their voices and their votes," said Candace Gingrich, HRC Youth & Campus Outreach Senior Manager.
HRC staff reviewed the video entries and chose the winner. Oakley, a 19-year-old Michigan State University student, will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. and will have the opportunity to be on XM radio's show, "The Agenda with Joe Solmonese." Along with his guest post on www.HRCBackStory.org, it will also be featured on HRC's website, YouTube channel, and Facebook and MySpace pages.
Human Rights Campaign also released a National Coming Out Day awareness video, produced by the HRC media center. The video is now available onlinealong with a list of events that took place across the country: http://www.hrc.org/issues/10772.htm.
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [10/29/08]
MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD! JAMES DOBSON AND THE RADIO HALL OF FAME On November 8, 2008, the Museum of Broadcast Communications plans to induct James Dobson's anti-gay Focus on the Family radio program into its Radio Hall of Fame. > Full Story. [10/23/08]
2008 WALTER CRONKITE FAITH AND FREEDOM AWARD HONOREES ANNOUNCED JUDY SHEPARD, ASRA NOMANI, AND RABBI IRWIN KULA Washington, DC Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy, President of Interfaith Alliance and Interfaith Alliance Foundation announced today the 2008 recipients of the Walter Cronkite Faith & Freedom Award. This year¹s honorees are Judy Shepard, Asra Nomani, and Rabbi Irwin Kula. Rev. Gaddy and Mr. Cronkite will present the awards at a ceremony in New York City on November 11 at the world famous Rainbow Room. > Full Story. [10/23/08]
AMFAR APPOINTS NEW VICE PRESIDENT FOR PUBLIC INFORMATION NEW YORK, October 23 – amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, is pleased to announce the appointment of Joshua Lamont as vice president for public information, amfAR CEO Kevin Robert Frost announced today. > Full Story. [10/23/08]
POSITIVELY AWARE MAGAZINE RELEASES SPECIAL WORLD AIDS DAY EDITION Chicago, Illinois – October 23, 2008 – In commemoration of World AIDS Day, the November/December issue of Positively Aware magazine takes a look at some of the individuals who are making a difference in the fight against HIV. World AIDS Day takes place every year on December 1, with leadership as this year's theme.
PA hears from three individuals working in the HIV community about what leadership means to them, including Stephen Lewis, author and co-director of AIDS Free World and former United Nations Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa; Julie Davids, the founding executive director of Community HIV/AIDS Mobilization Project (CHAMP); and Heidi Nass, a national HIV treatment advocate and woman living with HIV.
"Although it's easy enough to be a self appointed leader, I believe the HIV/AIDS movement needs leaders who are effective in two ways," says Davids, "by their actions, and by their commitment to bringing out the leadership in others."
The issue also features a profile of YouthAIDS ambassador Seane Corn, who's featured on the cover. Corn, a nationally celebrated yoga instructor known for her passionate, dynamic, and inspirational style of teaching that incorporates both the physical and spiritual aspects of the yoga practice, has made it her mission to educate others on the HIV/AIDS crisis, and to help reduce the fear, ignorance, and discrimination often associated with HIV/AIDS.
Also in this issue: an update from the XVII International AIDS Conference, which took place in Mexico City earlier this year; a report on what's known-and not known-about cardiovascular disease in HIV; and a closer look at the controversy, raised by a recent statement issued by a panel of Swiss experts, on whether having undetectable HIV viral load translates to a significant reduction in the transmission of HIV.
Positively Aware is an internationally known and respected magazine devoted to HIV treatment and health. Positively Aware has a circulation of 85,000, and is published bi-monthly by Test Positive Aware Network (TPAN) in Chicago. Founded in 1987, TPAN is Chicago's oldest peer-led AIDS service organization and specializes in peer-led treatment information and support services. Visit www.tpan.com. > Full Story. [10/23/08]
GLAAD ANNOUNCES $50,000 CONTRIBUTION TO NO ON PROP 8 IN CALIFORNIA Los Angeles, October 23, 2008 – The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) today announced a recent $50,000 contribution to NO on Prop 8 and urged its members to support NO on Prop 8 – the campaign to defeat Proposition 8, which if passed would eliminate marriage for gay and lesbian couples in California. The contribution, authorized by GLAAD's National Board of Directors, is in addition to a $100,000 contribution made in August and continuous in-kind services donated to the campaign. > Full Story. [10/23/08]
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN RELEASES 110TH CONGRESS SCORECARD WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign today released its Congressional Scorecard for the 110th Congress, which rates members of Congress on their support for issues of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. For each two year session of Congress since 1989, HRC has published a Congressional Scorecard that includes key Congressional votes and co-sponsorship of pro-LGBT legislation. It is one way to assist the LGBT community in assessing the relative support or non-support of Members of Congress. > Full Story. [10/23/08]
NATIONAL TRUST FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION, HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN FOUNDATION ANNOUNCE “GIFTS OF HERITAGE” CHARITABLE GIVING PARTNERSHIP WASHINGTON – The National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation today announced a partnership to cooperatively market Gifts of Heritage, a charitable program that accepts donations of architecturally or historically significant homes and then sells them to preservation minded buyers. The program will be marketed to the memberships of the two organizations and proceeds from any sales will benefit both equally.
The Gift of Heritage program allows donors who have an interest in supporting advancement of the LGBT community and historic preservation an opportunity to support both national institutions, and insures that historically or architecturally significant properties are preserved for future generations in private ownership.
"We are pleased to partner with the Human Rights Campaign Foundation because members of the LGBT community have a long history of preserving historic buildings and neighborhoods, and revitalizing communities," said Richard Moe, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
According to the partnership's structure, the National Trust for Historic Preservation will actually take ownership of properties gifted through the program and manage them until sold. A preservation and conservation easement protecting the property will be established and described to potential buyers. Marketing and sale of properties will be done in consultation with Human Rights Campaign Foundation. A portion of the proceeds will be placed in an endowment fund for the National Trust for Historic Preservation to regularly monitor the easement.
Individuals may donate their property during their lifetime either outright or with a retained life estate, or they may donate it through a bequest in their will. There are three general requirements for a property to be eligible for the Gifts of Heritage program: be at least 50 years old with architecturally defining features; be unencumbered (no liens or mortgages); and, meet minimum valuation requirements. Donors receive a charitable deduction on their federal income taxes, avoid capital gains on the property's appreciated value and remove the asset from their estate.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a non-profit membership organization bringing people together to protect, enhance and enjoy the places that matter to them. By saving the places where great moments from history – and the important moments of everyday life – took place, the National Trust for Historic Preservation helps revitalize neighborhoods and communities, spark economic development and promote environmental sustainability. With headquarters in Washington, DC, 9 regional and field offices, 29 historic sites, and partner organizations in all 50 states, the National Trust for Historic Preservation provides leadership, education, advocacy and resources to a national network of people, organizations and local communities committed to saving places, connecting us to our history and collectively shaping the future of America's stories. For more information, visit www.PreservationNation.org.
The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. > Full Story. [10/23/08]
PALIN INDICATES SUPPORT FOR FEDERAL MARRIAGE AMENDMENT Nearly 60 percent of Americans oppose writing discrimination into U.S. Constitution > Full Story. [10/21/08]
AETNA FIRST HEALTH PLAN TO LINK GAY AND LESBIAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION PROVIDER DIRECTORY TO ITS OWN ONLINE DOCTOR RESOURCE -- Company committed to increasing openness, quality of health care -- > Full Story. [10/21/08]
SAVVY NAVIGATOR LLC OFFERS GAY TOURS TO SOUTH AFRICA FOR SOPHISTICATED MALE TRAVELERS WASHINGTON, October 20, 2008 – Jeffrey Ward, a 20-year travel industry veteran and executive coach, has launched a specialized gay tour company catering to sophisticated male travelers. With three departures planned in 2009, Savvy Navigator offers 12-day experiential, life-changing journeys for small groups to sample some of South Africa's lesser-known attractions and meet with leading artists, naturalists and intellectuals.
Mr. Ward combines his executive experience in the trade with a passion for deeply enriching travel to create total immersion adventures for clients around the world.
"I started Savvy Navigator Tours because I saw a need among affluent gay men for escorted, one-of-a-kind travel experiences that would allow them to go beyond the standard vacation," said Mr. Ward, whose background includes more than a decade with American Airlines, where he concentrated on improving the customer experience. "Savvy Navigator will take select groups on exhilarating journeys through areas known only to the most devoted chowhounds, wine enthusiasts, cultural critics and nightlife connoisseurs."
Highlights of the "Eat, Drink and Be Merry" South Africa package, January 13-26, 2009, include a gourmet dinner hosted by a leading South African playwright and a safari at the luxurious Londolozi Private Game Reserve in Sabi Sands next to Kruger National Park. Other South Africa tours will depart in May and November 2009.
"My concept for Savvy Navigator is the best dinner party imaginable extended over 12 days in settings of startling beauty," said Mr. Ward. "Sophisticated travelers are craving something different and want the opportunity to have a transformative adventure that includes getting to know interesting locals, and not just have a traditional tourist experience."
Mr. Ward also noted that low air fares, combined with the value of the South African Rand currency, make January an excellent time for a South Africa vacation.
About Savvy Navigator Tours Savvy Navigator Tours, LLC is a U.S.-based provider of luxurious, experiential journeys to Southern Africa, appealing to a sophisticated, gay, male traveler. Intimate groups consist of no more than 12 guests and are fully inclusive of all accommodations, tours, wine-tastings, many meals, and all sightseeing with a local guide. These escorted, one-of-a-kind trips offertravel experiences that are unmatched by any other tour operator or travel agent. For more information, please see http://www.savvynavigator.com.
NEW GAY OPERATOR STEPS OUT WITH GAY, GREEN AND AFFORDABLE INTERNATIONAL TOURS Canadian based OUT Adventures today announced the global launch of operations and website www.out-adventures.com. Business and personal partners Robert Sharp and Steven Larkin have created eco-friendly OUT Adventures in order to address a current gap in the gay and lesbian travel segment that limits adventure travel to a handful of luxury operators.
"As avid gay travelers, Steven and I felt we could leverage our knowledge of the LGBT market and also the mainstream travel industry in order to provide a much more affordable, culturally enriching experience to gay men, lesbians, their friends and families," says Robert.
Larkin adds "Gays and lesbians are looking for their next big travel experience, but amidst economic uncertainty they also don't want to break the bank. We now offer this traveller a truly engaging, comfortable (average 3-3.5 star) experience that leaves them with plenty of spending money."
OUT Adventures will operate closed groups with a maximum of 12 passengers and has over 80 global departures planned in its first year. Trips are tailored to meet the needs of gay and lesbian travellers and begin at $875 CAD for an 8 day trip to Peru including a 3 day hike to Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail. All trips will have a strong focus on responsible travel by using locally owned hotels, restaurants and also interaction with local communities, both LGBT and mainstream.
The company is also leading this niche market by operating in a manner that contributes to the well being of the planet - from using green power in the OUT Adventures head office to including carbon emission off-setting in the cost of approximately 15% of its trips in its first year and in all trips by 2010.
In order to provide the best itineraries at the most affordable prices, OUT Adventures has partnered with one of the world's leading adventure tour operators, Intrepid Travel which will allow OUT to contract with a global network of destination management companies under the Intrepid brand.
Travellers can choose from Active, Comfort, In Style , Independent and also Family trips for same sex couples with children over the age of 6. Trips are available directly through the OUT Adventures website at www.out-adventures.com and travel agents worldwide.
For more information please contact Robert Sharp at robert@out-adventures.com or 416.583.2680.
About OUT Adventures Inc.: Toronto, Canada based OUT Adventures was founded by partners Steven Larkin and Robert Sharp and provides affordable and eco-friendly small group adventures to the LGBT community with over 35 worldwide destinations. OUT Adventures is a proud member of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association and the Travel Industry Council of Ontario. Visit www.out-adventures.com for more information and a complete product offering or join the OUT Adventures Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=38662329761.
Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd.: With over 19 years of experience, Intrepid Travel is one of the world's leading small group adventure tour operators. Intrepid offers over 450 itineraries in more than 90 destinations worldwide. Intrepid trips are designed to go off the beaten track, meet the locals and travel in an unconventional way, joining locals on their transport, in their markets and even in their homes. Visit www.intrepidtravel.com for more information. > Full Story. [10/16/08]
THE AIDS INSTITUTE SUPPORTS NATIONAL LATINO AIDS AWARENESS DAY Washington, DC – The AIDS Institute is proud to support the sixth annual National Latino AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD), which is being held on Wednesday, October 15, 2008. > Full Story. [10/15/08]
DR. ELIZA BYARD SELECTED TO BE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GLSEN NEW YORK, October 15, 2008 – GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, and the GLSEN national board of directors today announced that Dr. Eliza Byard has been selected as the organization's new Executive Director. Dr. Byard will officially begin as Executive Director on November 1, 2008. > Full Story. [10/15/08]
NEW UNF PUBLIC OPINION POLL: A CANDIDATE'S SEXUAL ORIENTATION MORE LIKELY TO AFFECT VOTE THAN BOTH RACE AND GENDER COMBINED A new University of North Florida Public Opinion Research Laboratory nationwide poll finds that, for 28.4% of respondents (28.2% of registered voters), a candidate's sexual orientation would impact whether they vote for him/her, compared to only 8.2% who claimed that a candidate's race would impact their vote and 7.1% who said the same for a candidate's gender (8.2% and 7.6%, respectively, of registered voters). > Full Story. [10/15/08]
GLSEN’S ALLY WEEK KICKS OFF IN SCHOOLS ACROSS THE COUNTRY NEW YORK, October 13, 2008 – Students across the country are signing a pledge to be allies this week as part of GLSEN's Ally Week, a week of activities designed to encourage people to be allies against anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and harassment at school. > Full Story. [10/14/08]
STATEMENT OF BARACK OBAMA ON TEN YEARS SINCE MATTHEW SHEPARD’S MURDER Chicago, IL – Senator Barack Obama issued the following statement today regarding the ten years since Matthew Shepard was murdered.
"Today, we pause to remember the heartbreaking and senseless murder of Matthew Shepard. A freshman at the University of Wyoming, Matthew was a young man committed to fighting for equality and changing the world around him. He was tragically taken from us far too early, an innocent victim of an abhorrent hate crime, and never had the chance to see his dreams realized.
"In the ten years since Matthew's passing, Congress has repeatedly and unacceptably failed to enact a federal hate crimes law that would protect all LGBT Americans. That's not just a failure to honor Matthew's memory; it's a failure to deliver justice for all who have been victimized by hate crimes, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation. All Americans deserve to live their lives free of fear, and as Americans, it is our moral obligation to stand up against bigotry and strive for equality for all.
"Today, Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to Matthew's parents, Judy and Dennis, and to all whose lives have been touched by unconscionable violence." > Full Story. [10/13/08]
THE AIDS INSTITUTE MOURNS THE LOSS OF THEIR LEADER Washington, DC – It is with great sadness that The AIDS Institute announces the passing of its Executive Director, Dr. Gene Copello, age 49, at INOVA Alexandria Hospital in Alexandria, Virginia on October 7th due to complications associated with kidney disease. Dr. Copello joined Florida AIDS Action in 1999 and through his vision and inspiration transformed it into The AIDS Institute, one of the nation's leading HIV/AIDS public policy, research and advocacy organizations. The AIDS Institute has offices in Washington, DC and Tampa, Florida. > Full Story. [10/13/08]
CALIFORNIA COURT OF APPEALS UPHOLDS $300,000 AWARD TO BULLIED PAIR OF GAY AND LESBIAN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS (San Diego, October 10, 2008) --- In a 3-0 decision, the California Court of Appeal (Fourth District) today upheld a jury decision that found that Poway Unified School District officials took minimal or no action at all when two Poway High School students were subjected to relentless harassment because they are gay and lesbian. The ruling upheld an award of $300,000 to Megan Donovan and Joey Ramelli under the state education code. > Full Story. [10/13/08]
GLAAD ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH NATIONAL GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE GLAAD is proud to announce its partnership with the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Academy for Leadership in Action at this year's National Conference on LGBT Equality: Creating Change. This year's conference is taking place in the "mile high" city, Denver, Colorado, from January 28 through February 1, 2009. We cordially invite you to join us at the conference and to be a part of this incredibly exciting skill building and learning opportunity. > Full Story. [10/13/08]
NATIONAL GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE HAILS HISTORIC CONNECTICUT SUPREME COURT RULING GRANTING THE FREEDOM TO MARRY TO SAME-SEX COUPLES National Gay and Lesbian Task Force hails historic Connecticut Supreme Court ruling granting the freedom to marry to same-sex couples > Full Story. [10/10/08]
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN URGES SUPPORTERS TO “TXT OUT THE VOTE” WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, launched today a free tool for HRC members to send friends and family members a text message on Election Day reminding them to vote. Supporters are encouraged to visit www.TxtOutTheVote.com/p/hrc to set up these important reminders on this break-through tool created by CREDO Mobile.
"The outcome of November's election will have a profound impact on the LGBT community," said Human Rights Campaign Online Strategy Director Dane Grams. "Txt Out The Vote is another tool in our arsenal to encourage our members and their social networks to exercise their civic duty on November 4th."
Text message reminders are a proven method to increase voter turnout. A recent experiment conducted by Princeton University and the University of Michigan found that voters who received a single text message on the day before an election were four percent more likely to vote than people who did not.
Visitors to Txt Out The Vote simply enter their friends' mobile phone numbers and select from a handful of pre-written messages such as "Today is Election Day! Stand up for LGBT issues and don't forget to vote." Reminders will be sent out automatically on November 3rd.
Human Rights Campaign has been on the cutting edge of mobile communication. More than 25,000 HRC supporters have joined the HRC Mobile Action Network by texting HRC to 30644 to receive breaking news and action alerts directly to their cell phones.
Txt Out The Vote: www.TxtOutTheVote.com/p/hrc
The Human Rights Campaign is America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.
OVER 50,000 LATINOS/AS IN SAME SEX COUPLES; RAISING NEARLY 25,000 CHILDREN LOS ANGELES - Today, the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law released a new research study providing demographic and economic information for the more than 200,000 LGB Latino/a individuals and 52,410 Latinos/as in same-sex couples living in California. > Full Story. [10/9/08]
PALIN DECLINES TO ACKNOWLEDGE “NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY” GAY ALASKANS DISMAYED BY GOVERNOR’S REBUFF (Juneau, AK) --- Gov. Palin has declined to issue a formal proclamation recognizing "National Coming Out Day," in Alaska. Heartened by the Gov. Palin's positive comments about gays and lesbians in the Vice Presidential Debate, Alaskans Together submitted a formal request to acknowledge the day, which is observed on Oct. 11 internationally by members of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered) communities and supporters.
"But I also want to clarify, if there's any kind of suggestion at all from my answer that I would be anything but tolerant of adults in America choosing their partners, choosing relationships that they deem best for themselves, you know…," said Gov. Palin during the debate.
"Governor Palin called for 'tolerance', and we hoped she'd show that type of leadership as Governor with this proclamation," said Alaskans Together President Marsha Buck. "Coming out is a difficult and deserves recognition."
So far in October 2008 Governor Palin has issued proclamations for: "Careers in Construction Week," "10th Annual Christian Heritage Week," "Biomedical Technician Week," "Alaska Taiwan Friendship Week," "World Farm Animals Day," "Breastfeeding Awareness Month," and "Grand Opening of Rilke Schule Day."
"We were asking for the Governor to acknowledge and recognize the dignity of openly-gay Alaskans. We weren't asking for a policy position, beyond simple acknowledgement." Buck said. ### > Full Story. [10/9/08]
NETWORKS ASK VIEWERS TO "BE AN ALLY" ON NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY Los Angeles, October 7, 2008 – In honor of the 20th Annual National Coming Out Day on Saturday, October 11, cable networks and local affiliates will be airing public service announcements (PSAs) from the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD). The "Be an Ally & a Friend" PSA campaign, now in its third year, shares with viewers the importance of accepting gay friends and family members. > Full Story. [10/8/08]
GLSEN STUDY FINDS NEARLY 9 OUT OF 10 LGBT STUDENTS EXPERIENCE HARASSMENT NEW YORK, Oct. 8, 2008 – GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, today released the most comprehensive report ever on the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students, The 2007 National School Climate Survey. The report is being released in conjunction with the announcement that GLSEN will partner with the Ad Council on a multiyear national public education campaign targeting anti-LGBT language among teenagers. > Full Story. [10/8/08]
BLUES GUITAR GODDESS MICHELLE MALONE ANNOUNCES FALL TOURDATES October 7, 2008 (New York, NY) Armed with a bottleneck slide, blues harmonica, and her signature gut-wrenching vocals, Moanin' Michelle Malone ( a nickname given to her by Albert King after hearing her sing).was born in the dirty south and grew up listening to her mother sing in the church choir every Sunday. When it came time to craft her own sound, she took those religious roots, blended in enough rock and soul to keep the devil satisfied. The result is a high-spirited stripped down blend of rootsy acoustic slide, gritty electric blues and explosive vocals that sounds like Bonnie Raitt and the Rolling Stones meeting up in Susan Tedeschi's garage for a late night jam session. > Full Story. [10/7/08]
HERE! SET TO PREMIERE HOT GAY COMICS LOS ANGELES, CA – October 7th, 2008 – here!, America's premium gay television network is pleased to announce the premiere of the hilarious new series Hot Gay Comics. The series featuring the best in out-and-proud comedy is set to hit the network on Friday, November 14th. A far cry from traditional stand-up, it features both LGBT mainstays and up-and-comers in today's comedy world. > Full Story. [10/7/08]
76 PERCENT OF RESPONDENTS PLANNING TO MARRY IN LEGAL CEREMONY WILL TRAVEL TO CALIFORNIA SOUTHLAKE, Texas – October 6, 2008 – Earlier this year when the California State Supreme Court struck down its ban on same-sex marriage, many predicted an influx of gay and lesbian travelers to The Golden State to exchange vows. Those predictions may have well become a reality as a recent poll released by GayTravelocity.com found that 31 percent of respondents are planning to get married in a legal ceremony this year and of those respondents, 76 percent plan to travel to California to do so. > Full Story. [10/7/08]
LONG PATH TO THE ALTAR FOR GAY COUPLES IN CALIF. [VIDEO] Long Path to the Altar for Gay Couples in Calif. Associated Press • Jun. 16, 2008. 08:23 AM EST
California today becomes only the second state in the nation after Massachusetts to allow gays to get married. Last month's ruling by the state Supreme Court kicks in at 5:01 p.m. Pacific time. (June 16) > Full Story. [6/16/08]
GEORGE MICHAEL: A NEW ALBUM AND MAKES AMERICAN ACTING DEBUT
New York, NY (March 24, 2008) – After performing 80 shows in 12 European countries for a staggering 1.3 million fans over the past year alone, legendary superstar George Michael will be bringing his smash 25 LIVE tour to North American Arenas in the summer of 2008 in support of his new retrospective record. This will be Michael's first North American tour in 17 years. The new record, titled Twenty-Five, will be released April 1st and is a 29-song, 2-CD set featuring six new songs (including duets with superstars Paul McCartney and Mary J. Blige and a song from the Eli Stone finale, “Feeling Good”) in addition to many of Michael's iconic songs from both his solo and WHAM! career. In addition, a companion 2-disc DVD of 40 videos will also be made available.
The 25 LIVE tour broke several ticket sales records, most notably in Copenhagen. Michael's concert at The Parken Stadium sold over 50,000 tickets in the matter of minutes, shattering the previous ticket sales record at the venue, formerly held by U2. On the 25 LIVE tour, Michael left both fans and critics alike in awe:
"It was a master class in pop genius." - The Observer
"George proved he is simply one of the best vocalists this country has ever produced. A stunning performance." - The Sun
"Worth waiting for. The show was, in every single meaning of the word, perfect." - De Morgen
"A tremendous singer, a complete showman, all George Michael needs is a mike, his songs, and the magic on stage is instantaneous." - La Parisien
The North American leg of the 25 LIVE tour will kick off in San Diego on June 17th and will continue through San Jose, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Seattle, Vancouver, Minneapolis, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, New York and several other major cities. The tour will incorporate 22 shows over the course of seven weeks and Michael will perform material taken from the entire span of his career, including some classic Wham! tracks. Michael has recently teamed up with iTunes and Ticketmaster to produce an innovative media package which allows fans rare access to Michael’s videos, songs, and tickets to one of his North American 25 LIVE concerts. The package goes on sale on iTunes on March 25th. Tickets to the 25 LIVE tour will go on sale to the general public the weekend of April 6th.
George Michael has enjoyed one of the most successful and enduring careers in the history of pop music, selling more than 85 million records globally and encompassing seven US No. 1 singles, two Grammy awards, three American Music Awards, an MTV Video Music Award and two prestigious Ivor Novello awards for songwriting. His record "Faith" has sold over 20 million copies alone. In addition, Michael has garnered 11 British No. 1 singles and seven British No. 1 albums. He recently was declared the most played British artist on radio over the course of the last 20 years. On March 27th, Michael can be seen making his American acting debut on the new hit ABC series, Eli Stone, in which each episode is titled after one of his songs.
For more information about the George Michael, please visit:
CA SCHOOL SHOOTING; HATE-CRIME CHARGES HAVE BEEN FILED Local Groups for Gay Rights KCOY CBS 12 Santa Maria • Feb. 15, 2008. 03:12 AM EST > Full Story. [2/15/08]
NEWS: "CALL FOR LOVE" SUPPORTS LGBT JAMAICANS A CALL FOR LOVE: Valentine's Day 2008 by Mel Bryant
"STOP THE VIOLENCE! STOP THE HATE!" More than 30 die-hard activists, including two associates from Jamaica AIDS Services, one of whom is currently seeking asylum in the United States after threats to his life, chanted these words as they gathered at the Jamaican Consulate on Third Avenue in New York City on Valentine's Day to CALL FOR LOVE. The international action campaign, organized by Metropolitan Community Churches in response to the recent wave of mob violence directed against LGBT people in Jamaica, brought together representatives from MCC, Human Rights Watch, The Center, UNITY Fellowship, Renewed Life Ministries, Lavender and Green, Hadwen Park Congregational Church and the Peace Corps.
The Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Chair of Global Justice Ministry of Metropolitan Community Churches, recounted many of the horrific events of the past year, including the January 29th break-in to the private home of three gay men by a mob wielding clubs and machetes. "Two of those young men, doing nothing more than existing in their own home, were clubbed and macheted to the point of hospitalization," she said. "One lost an ear and may suffer paralysis from the attack. A third young man is missing and presumed dead. Only the blood trail away from the home remains."
"Enough is enough!" she called to the lunchtime crowds passing by the Consulate. "The time has come for people of goodwill around the globe to break their silence and demand that the Jamaican government and its political and social structures guarantee the safety of all Jamaicans."
Rebecca Schleiffer of Human Rights Watch recounted the horror of three gay men trapped in a pharmacy by a mob of two hundred in Montego Bay last year on Valentine's Day. "Those three young men had to place an international phone call to the Human Rights Watch," she said, "and we had to act on their behalf before the police would intervene. And even then," she continued, "those charged with protecting the lives of Jamaican citizens joined in the taunting and threatening gestures, punching one of the three in the face and stomach."
Jamaican Nathaniel Cunningham, who is seeking asylum in the United States because of death threats for his work with Jamaica AIDS Services and his courage in being out as a gay man, said, "The nightmares must end! No more sleepless nights wondering if you will be next! It's time for all Jamaicans to feel safe in their own homes and in their own country!" Cunningham led the crowd in chants calling for love to replace hate.
Speaker after speaker, including the Rev. Judith Hanlon, Pastor of the Hadwen Park Congregational Church, UCC, who had traveled to New York from Worcester, MA to participate in the demonstration, called on the Jamaican Consulate to intervene and promised to keep the pressure on until change is as evident as the violence has been. Prior to the demonstration, Rev. Bumgardner and Jamaican activist Junior Walker were politely rebuffed in their attempt to meet with the Acting Consul General, Lincoln Downer. They did, however, manage to deliver a letter calling attention to the CALL FOR LOVE campaign and promising ongoing efforts until the violence ends.
As the demonstration ended, those gathered placed flowers carrying the banner, "For the Jamaican Victims of Homophobic Hatred and Violence." As Rev. Bumgardner prepared to lead the crowd in a prayer of remembrance and promise, the Consulate's building manager came outside to say that praying on the sidewalk was not allowed. "We are going to pray now," Rev. Bumgardner responded, at which point the building manage stepped away and waited for the prayer's conclusion. A few moments later he reappeared to say that the flowers must be removed. After some negotiation, the flowers were delivered to the Consulate with their banner intact.
The Valentine's Day public actions in New York City, along with similar actions in Philadelphia, Toronto, Miami, and Washington, DC, marked the beginning of an international public awareness campaign organized by Metropolitan Community Churches.
For More Information On The New York City Action or Upcoming "Call For Love" Events, Contact: The Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Chair MCC Global Justice Team GlobalJustice@MCCchurch.net. 212-629-7440 > Full Story. [2/15/08]
GSA NETWORK, TRANSGENDER LAW CENTER, AND EQCA SADDENED OVER SHOOTING OF GAY JR. HIGH STUDENT IN OXNARD GSA Network, Transgender Law Center, and EQCA Saddened Over Shooting of Gay Jr. High Student in Oxnard > Full Story. [2/14/08]
MINISTERS WANT STATE TO LEGALIZE SAME-SEX MARRIAGE > Full Story. [2/14/08]
GLAAD APPOINTS NEW MEMBERS TO NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS GLAAD APPOINTS SIX NEW MEMBERS TO NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS > Full Story. [2/11/08]
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New York, NY (March 24, 2008) – After performing 80 shows in 12 European countries for a staggering 1.3 million fans over the past year alone, legendary superstar George Michael will be bringing his smash 25 LIVE tour to North American Arenas in the summer of 2008 in support of his new retrospective record. This will be Michael's first North American tour in 17 years. The new record, titled Twenty-Five, will be released April 1st and is a 29-song, 2-CD set featuring six new songs (including duets with superstars Paul McCartney and Mary J. Blige and a song from the Eli Stone finale, “Feeling Good”) in addition to many of Michael's iconic songs from both his solo and WHAM! career. In addition, a companion 2-disc DVD of 40 videos will also be made available. 
