Michael Bolzenius: Election 2006: "
The current trend of state govenments is to draw up restrictive laws, which prevent gay civil unions or marriage. This is an attack against our history of civil right achievments.
Therefore, I support the vigorous enforcement of civil rights laws, and the aggressive prosecution of 'hate crimes'; I assert the right of every individual to be treated equally and fairly, as a full and valued member of society; I oppose discrimination based on actual, or perceived sexual orientation, or gender identity; I support the right of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender people to be free from discrimination in all arenas of life without reguard."
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Dispatches From the Arkansas Gay Community 2006
Boo Bash 2006 was a huge success and loads of fun. Little Rock Capital Pride wants to thank Philip at Sidetracks along with the rest of their fantastic staff for a fabulous and enjoyable evening and welcoming us into their home. This event allowed our group to branch and meet several people who had never heard of us. This assist us in developing our image in the community and we couldn’t be more pleased when we get to do that.
The board would like to extend a huge THANK YOU to our new fundraiser chair Kamrin Dodd who pulled off Boo Bash flawlessly. This was her first event and we know she hasn’t slept since like August. J
We also have huge appreciate for all the venders who helped us out by donating items to be given away to our attendants.
Little Rock Capital Pride will be making announcements for our next events in the coming weeks.
At this time we want to remind you to join us on Tuesday Night when some of us will be attending the Anastasia Party at Sidetracks. Here’s the info:
SIDETRACKS PRESENTS
THE 2ND ANNUAL ANASTASIA BALL
Every Year, Anastasia, being Murdered at a Very Young age in our Building , Comes Out to Celebrate Halloween. She loves to be with Friends and she can be found in the loft of Sidetracks watching! This side of Sidetracks was once a brothel where she worked at the time of her death. The Man that Killed her was later killed in the Saloon Area.
This is Her Night!
She has Been Seen by Psychics and Know by the Spirit Seekers of UALR and Ghost Connections from Northwest Arkansas Come and Experience the 1920's and 1930's of North Little Rock's Sidetracks
This is not a night to take lightly . This is an Event of the Year.
Buffet (wait till you taste the food)
Anastasia look a like winner crowned,
Pumpkin contest winners announced
and much, much more.
This is not LRCP event; but one that some us have been waiting for all year. We’ll see you there and also at our next boarding meeting – to be announced in the coming weeks.
Thanks.
Thanks,
David W. Quinn
The board would like to extend a huge THANK YOU to our new fundraiser chair Kamrin Dodd who pulled off Boo Bash flawlessly. This was her first event and we know she hasn’t slept since like August. J
We also have huge appreciate for all the venders who helped us out by donating items to be given away to our attendants.
Little Rock Capital Pride will be making announcements for our next events in the coming weeks.
At this time we want to remind you to join us on Tuesday Night when some of us will be attending the Anastasia Party at Sidetracks. Here’s the info:
SIDETRACKS PRESENTS
THE 2ND ANNUAL ANASTASIA BALL
Every Year, Anastasia, being Murdered at a Very Young age in our Building , Comes Out to Celebrate Halloween. She loves to be with Friends and she can be found in the loft of Sidetracks watching! This side of Sidetracks was once a brothel where she worked at the time of her death. The Man that Killed her was later killed in the Saloon Area.
This is Her Night!
She has Been Seen by Psychics and Know by the Spirit Seekers of UALR and Ghost Connections from Northwest Arkansas Come and Experience the 1920's and 1930's of North Little Rock's Sidetracks
This is not a night to take lightly . This is an Event of the Year.
Buffet (wait till you taste the food)
Anastasia look a like winner crowned,
Pumpkin contest winners announced
and much, much more.
This is not LRCP event; but one that some us have been waiting for all year. We’ll see you there and also at our next boarding meeting – to be announced in the coming weeks.
Thanks.
Thanks,
David W. Quinn
Subject: The Pridelets Files for October 29 2006
Subject: The Pridelets Files for October 29 The Pridelets Files for October 29 (Having retired in 1999), former NFL linebacker Esera Tuaolo, whoplayed for the Packers, Vikings, Jaguars, Falcons and Panthers, comesout of the closet in an interview aired on this day in 2002 on HBO's"Real Sports with Bryant Gumbal." Says Tuaolo, "I'm just your typicalgay Samoan ex-nose tackle who would like to break into show business."BIRTHGAYS (and the occasional straights) 1956 - Pioneering lesbian journal "The Ladder"Q.UOTE "My grandmother thought that a homosexual was a person who slept withone person their whole life. We were gonna let it slide but she kepttelling the mailman she was a homosexual" -- New York City Deputy MayorMichael Flaherty (Michael J. Fox), in an episode of ABC's "Spin City"aired on this day in 1996THE BEDSIDE TABLE "The Theocons: Secular America Under Siege" by Damon Linker http://tinyurl.com/q6p6x For the past three decades, a few determined men have worked toinject their radical religious ideas into the nation's politics. This isthe story of how they succeeded. George W. Bush has gone out of his way to blur the line betweenreligion and politics in America--this is acknowledged by his strongestsupporters no less than by his most strident critics. The most commonexplanation of the president's religious agenda points to rise ofevangelical Protestantism. Yet as Damon Linker demonstrates in his groundbreaking book, an exclusive focus on the role of evangelicalsmisses the heart of the story. At its core, the Bush administration'sovert religiosity represents the triumph of an ideological movement thatfor the past several decades has devoted itself to fashioning atheocratic governing philosophy for the United States--a governingphilosophy rooted in Roman Catholicism. Led by Father Richard JohnNeuhaus, this group of "theoconservatives" has actively sought to rollback the division of church and state in American life. The election of 2000 brought the theocons to the peak of politicalpower and influence in Washington. Their ideas inspire the mostcontroversial and divisive policies of the Bush administration--policieswhose ultimate goal is nothing less than the end of secular politics inAmerica.
Saturday, October 28, 2006
DeLay accuses McDaniel of supporting 'gay agenda' in TV ad
DeLay accuses McDaniel of supporting 'gay agenda' in TV ad
By ANDREW DeMILLOSaturday, October 28, 2006 2:46 AM CDT
LITTLE ROCK - Democratic attorney general nominee Dustin McDaniel said on Friday that Republican Gunner DeLay is misleading voters with a new ad accusing McDaniel of promoting a "gay agenda" and civil unions for same-sex couples.
DeLay, a former state senator from Fort Smith, began airing a television spot Thursday night targeting McDaniel for comments he made last week in support of civil unions for unmarried couples."Only one candidate is openly supporting the gay agenda in favor of same-sex civil unions, Dustin McDaniel," the announcer in the 30-second ad says. "Civil unions like they have in Vermont would have the same legal status as a traditional marriage between a man and a woman."McDaniel on Friday said the spot lies about his record and repeated his support for a constitutional ban on gay marriage approved overwhelmingly by voters in 2004."The people of Arkansas do not need an attorney general who lies with a straight face," McDaniel said. "I believe marriage is between one man and one woman, and I will always defend our constitution. My opponent knows he is losing, and he is willing to lie about my record and my values in his last Hail Mary effort."
McDaniel earlier this month told The Associated Press in an interview that he supports the ban but said Arkansas couples who cannot marry should be allowed to enter civil unions. McDaniel did not say he would push for or propose civil unions as attorney general."I think the people should have the right to determine who has access to their medical records, who you buy and sell property with, who you transfer property to, your inheritance rights," McDaniel said. "If two people want to go into a relationship where they can co-own a home or share medical records with one another, get to see each other in the hospital, those kinds of things, I think the law should protect those rights," McDaniel said.DeLay said the ad was produced before the New Jersey Supreme Court decided this week that same-sex couples must be given the same rights as married people and it is in response to McDaniel's comments during the AP interview. DeLay said he's focusing on the topic because he believes it's possible Democrats will win control of Congress and try to push for civil unions."I'm saying I'll be in court the next day filing a motion for injunctive relief because I believe that would be a violation of the 10th amendment," DeLay said, referred to the amendment that guarantees states' rights on issues not delegated to the federal government.McDaniel compared the spot to a television ad aired by Republican gubernatorial nominee Asa Hutchinson that features 15 children calling Attorney General Mike Beebe a flip flopper and a back slapper. Beebe, the Democratic gubernatorial nominee, has said Hutchinson should pull the ad."I thought Asa using kids in his ad was bad until I saw Gunner's ad," McDaniel said. "The people won't fall for it."
By ANDREW DeMILLOSaturday, October 28, 2006 2:46 AM CDT
LITTLE ROCK - Democratic attorney general nominee Dustin McDaniel said on Friday that Republican Gunner DeLay is misleading voters with a new ad accusing McDaniel of promoting a "gay agenda" and civil unions for same-sex couples.
DeLay, a former state senator from Fort Smith, began airing a television spot Thursday night targeting McDaniel for comments he made last week in support of civil unions for unmarried couples."Only one candidate is openly supporting the gay agenda in favor of same-sex civil unions, Dustin McDaniel," the announcer in the 30-second ad says. "Civil unions like they have in Vermont would have the same legal status as a traditional marriage between a man and a woman."McDaniel on Friday said the spot lies about his record and repeated his support for a constitutional ban on gay marriage approved overwhelmingly by voters in 2004."The people of Arkansas do not need an attorney general who lies with a straight face," McDaniel said. "I believe marriage is between one man and one woman, and I will always defend our constitution. My opponent knows he is losing, and he is willing to lie about my record and my values in his last Hail Mary effort."
McDaniel earlier this month told The Associated Press in an interview that he supports the ban but said Arkansas couples who cannot marry should be allowed to enter civil unions. McDaniel did not say he would push for or propose civil unions as attorney general."I think the people should have the right to determine who has access to their medical records, who you buy and sell property with, who you transfer property to, your inheritance rights," McDaniel said. "If two people want to go into a relationship where they can co-own a home or share medical records with one another, get to see each other in the hospital, those kinds of things, I think the law should protect those rights," McDaniel said.DeLay said the ad was produced before the New Jersey Supreme Court decided this week that same-sex couples must be given the same rights as married people and it is in response to McDaniel's comments during the AP interview. DeLay said he's focusing on the topic because he believes it's possible Democrats will win control of Congress and try to push for civil unions."I'm saying I'll be in court the next day filing a motion for injunctive relief because I believe that would be a violation of the 10th amendment," DeLay said, referred to the amendment that guarantees states' rights on issues not delegated to the federal government.McDaniel compared the spot to a television ad aired by Republican gubernatorial nominee Asa Hutchinson that features 15 children calling Attorney General Mike Beebe a flip flopper and a back slapper. Beebe, the Democratic gubernatorial nominee, has said Hutchinson should pull the ad."I thought Asa using kids in his ad was bad until I saw Gunner's ad," McDaniel said. "The people won't fall for it."
Progressive Democrat will challenge DINO in Arkansas for U.S. Senate
Progressive Democrat will challenge DINO in Arkansas for U.S. Senate
by Drew Pritt
Fri Oct 27, 2006 at 05:26:24 PM PDT
Drew Pritt, Democrat, who became the first openly gay person to seek statewide office in Arkansas when ran for Lt. Governor earlier this year, says he is ready to return to the stump in a bid for the U.S. Senate.
"Mark Pryor is someone I have supported in the past, but I cannot support his votes or his decisions of who to support as of late," said Pritt. "This is a fundamental contest between a true blue Democrat such as myselfand someone who does not vote as a Democrat but runs with the party label to get elected."
Drew Pritt's diary :: ::
I made the decision this past week to run for United States Senate. Now, it may take a second to fathom what I just said. The reason I decided to run were many reasons, including a lifelong desire to serve in the United States Senate. However, I have found three reasons specifically to challenge a fellow Democrat.
Now you need to understand, I have supported Mark Pryor for many years. In 1994, when he challenged a fellow Democrat, Winston Bryant for Attorney General. I supported him in 1998 for Attorney General again, this time successfully and in 2002 for U.S. Senate. I have been disappointed by three major decisions Senator Pryor has made.
1.) Senator Pryor's decision to become a member of the Gang of 14, who made an agreement whereby the seven Democrats would no longer vote along with their party on filibustering judicial nominees (except in "extraordinary circumstances"), and in turn the seven Republicans would break with Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and the Republican leadership on voting for the "nuclear option." in opposition to judicial nominees in the U.S. Senate in early 2005.
2.) On September 28, 2006, Pryor was one of 12 Senate Democrats who voted to adopt S.3930, the Military Commissions Act of 2006, which restricts from an entire class of people the writ of Habeas Corpus, admits as legal evidence information obtained by coercion or torture, and provides for an effective amnesty to government officials who might otherwise face criminal charges for having authorized torture or abuse of prisoners prior to the bill's passage.
3.) After Ned Lamont defeated Senator Joe Lieberman for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut, Pryor turned his back on the legal and rightfully elected Democratic nominee and supports Lieberman over Lamont.
Senator Pryor is the ironically the Vice Chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. This will be a hard race. I have filed my FEC Paperwork and will await my FEC I.D. number so I can set up an ActBlue account.
Until then, would you be willing to financially invest so we can begin to get postage, send out fundraising letters, and raise money?
I need support from people all over. We can and we will return people to Congress who stand for what they believe in, especially when its people oriented.
You can donate online at http://www.DrewPritt.com/...
The limit is $2,000 per person. I am asking for an investment of $100 - $250 right now. You can also snail mail by sending to :
Drew Pritt for U.S. Senate3204 Fair Park Blvd.Suite #1SLittle Rock, AR. 72204
by Drew Pritt
Fri Oct 27, 2006 at 05:26:24 PM PDT
Drew Pritt, Democrat, who became the first openly gay person to seek statewide office in Arkansas when ran for Lt. Governor earlier this year, says he is ready to return to the stump in a bid for the U.S. Senate.
"Mark Pryor is someone I have supported in the past, but I cannot support his votes or his decisions of who to support as of late," said Pritt. "This is a fundamental contest between a true blue Democrat such as myselfand someone who does not vote as a Democrat but runs with the party label to get elected."
Drew Pritt's diary :: ::
I made the decision this past week to run for United States Senate. Now, it may take a second to fathom what I just said. The reason I decided to run were many reasons, including a lifelong desire to serve in the United States Senate. However, I have found three reasons specifically to challenge a fellow Democrat.
Now you need to understand, I have supported Mark Pryor for many years. In 1994, when he challenged a fellow Democrat, Winston Bryant for Attorney General. I supported him in 1998 for Attorney General again, this time successfully and in 2002 for U.S. Senate. I have been disappointed by three major decisions Senator Pryor has made.
1.) Senator Pryor's decision to become a member of the Gang of 14, who made an agreement whereby the seven Democrats would no longer vote along with their party on filibustering judicial nominees (except in "extraordinary circumstances"), and in turn the seven Republicans would break with Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and the Republican leadership on voting for the "nuclear option." in opposition to judicial nominees in the U.S. Senate in early 2005.
2.) On September 28, 2006, Pryor was one of 12 Senate Democrats who voted to adopt S.3930, the Military Commissions Act of 2006, which restricts from an entire class of people the writ of Habeas Corpus, admits as legal evidence information obtained by coercion or torture, and provides for an effective amnesty to government officials who might otherwise face criminal charges for having authorized torture or abuse of prisoners prior to the bill's passage.
3.) After Ned Lamont defeated Senator Joe Lieberman for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut, Pryor turned his back on the legal and rightfully elected Democratic nominee and supports Lieberman over Lamont.
Senator Pryor is the ironically the Vice Chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. This will be a hard race. I have filed my FEC Paperwork and will await my FEC I.D. number so I can set up an ActBlue account.
Until then, would you be willing to financially invest so we can begin to get postage, send out fundraising letters, and raise money?
I need support from people all over. We can and we will return people to Congress who stand for what they believe in, especially when its people oriented.
You can donate online at http://www.DrewPritt.com/...
The limit is $2,000 per person. I am asking for an investment of $100 - $250 right now. You can also snail mail by sending to :
Drew Pritt for U.S. Senate3204 Fair Park Blvd.Suite #1SLittle Rock, AR. 72204
Friday, October 27, 2006
Arkansans split over gay foster parents
Arkansans split over gay foster parents
" mailto:tcjackson2005@sbcglobal.net?Subject=Re: Arkansans%20split%20over%20gay%20foster%20parents tomjackson2008
Thu Oct 26, 2006 9:03 pm (PST)
FAYETTEVILLE - Arkansans are satisfied with current laws on social issues, and tend to shy away from turning personal beliefs intostate law, according to the Arkansas Poll.The poll, a survey of 761 Arkansas residents, showed little change in attitudes toward abortion and gun control. A split set ofquestions regarding gay and lesbian foster parents, however, produced a surprising difference between the number of people whoopposed the idea personally and those who supported a law banning the practice.Those asked if they approved of the practice personally rejected the notion 66 percent of the time, but support for a legal ban isneeded were almost evenly split, with 46 percent approving of a ban and 48 percent rejecting the notion."Asking people about what they perceive as good public policy is different than asking about what they personally believe," saidJanine Parry, a University of Arkansas political scientist who headed the poll. "There seems to be a certain libertarian streak inAmericans and in Arkansans that says while I may not choose something, I don't feel comfortable choosing for you, either."Clint Reed, director of the state Republican Party, disputed the findings."It's all in how you frame the issue," Reed said. "What we're seeing out there on the ground is that people in Arkansas just don'tapprove of that in any way." Arkansans <http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2006/10/26/News/338211.html> split over gay fosterparentsArkansas News, AR
" mailto:tcjackson2005@sbcglobal.net?Subject=Re: Arkansans%20split%20over%20gay%20foster%20parents tomjackson2008
Thu Oct 26, 2006 9:03 pm (PST)
FAYETTEVILLE - Arkansans are satisfied with current laws on social issues, and tend to shy away from turning personal beliefs intostate law, according to the Arkansas Poll.The poll, a survey of 761 Arkansas residents, showed little change in attitudes toward abortion and gun control. A split set ofquestions regarding gay and lesbian foster parents, however, produced a surprising difference between the number of people whoopposed the idea personally and those who supported a law banning the practice.Those asked if they approved of the practice personally rejected the notion 66 percent of the time, but support for a legal ban isneeded were almost evenly split, with 46 percent approving of a ban and 48 percent rejecting the notion."Asking people about what they perceive as good public policy is different than asking about what they personally believe," saidJanine Parry, a University of Arkansas political scientist who headed the poll. "There seems to be a certain libertarian streak inAmericans and in Arkansans that says while I may not choose something, I don't feel comfortable choosing for you, either."Clint Reed, director of the state Republican Party, disputed the findings."It's all in how you frame the issue," Reed said. "What we're seeing out there on the ground is that people in Arkansas just don'tapprove of that in any way." Arkansans <http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2006/10/26/News/338211.html> split over gay fosterparentsArkansas News, AR
Friday, October 13, 2006
Timeline of gay history in America 2006 Dallas Voice
Timeline of gay history in AmericaBy Oct 12, 2006, 19:54
Notable events from the formation of the Society of Human Rights in 1924 to the battle for gay marriage
1924: The Society for Human Rights in Chicago becomes the country’s earliest known gay rights organization.1948: Alfred Kinsey publishes “Sexual Behavior in the Human Male,” a groundbreaking study which broaches topics of homosexuality and bisexuality previously undiscussed. 1951: The Mattachine Society is formed by Harry Hay, and becomes the country’s first national gay rights organization.1956: National lesbian group The Daughters of Bilitis is formed.1962: Illinois becomes the first state in the U.S. to decriminalize private consensual homosexual acts between adults.1965: The first gay rights protests occur in Washington, D.C. and in front of Philadelphia’s Independence Hall.1969: The Stonewall Riots begin on June 27 and last for three days, launching the previously quiet gay rights movement into a massive period of social change, with membership in organizations increasing into the thousands in a year. 1971-73: The Gay Raiders, a gay militant group, campaign to get television networks to feature and discuss gay people on the air. They disrupt various programs including the CBS Evening News.1973: The American Psychiatric Association removes homosexuality from its official list of mental disorders.1975: Governor Milton Shapp of Pennsylvania creates the first committee to research and report on discrimination against sexual minorities. One year later, Governor Shapp issues an executive order outlawing discrimination against sexual minorities in employment, housing and public accommodation in his state.1981: The first cases of AIDS in gay men in New York and Los Angeles are reported. 1982: Wisconsin becomes the first state legislature to outlaw discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.1982: The first Gay Games take place in San Francisco, drawing more than 1,350 athletes.1985: A spokesperson for actor Rock Hudson acknowledges the star has AIDS, bringing the disease to the media forefront for the first time.1993: The “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy is instituted for the U.S. military, permitting gays to serve in the military but banning homosexual activity. Thousands of gay and lesbian persons are relieved of their positions.1996: The Supreme Court strikes down Colorado’s Amendment 2, which denied gays and lesbians protections against discrimination. 1997: Ellen DeGeneres’ character, Ellen Morgan, comes out as a lesbian on the popular sit-com “Ellen,” drawing 36 million viewers. DeGeneres also comes out publicly as a lesbian.2000: Vermont becomes the first state in the country to legally recognize civil unions between gay or lesbian couples.2003: The Supreme Court rules in Lawrence v. Texas that laws prohibiting sodomy are unconstitutional.2004: On May 17, same-sex marriages become legal in Massachusetts.2005: Civil unions become legal in Connecticut in Oct. 2005.
Notable events from the formation of the Society of Human Rights in 1924 to the battle for gay marriage
1924: The Society for Human Rights in Chicago becomes the country’s earliest known gay rights organization.1948: Alfred Kinsey publishes “Sexual Behavior in the Human Male,” a groundbreaking study which broaches topics of homosexuality and bisexuality previously undiscussed. 1951: The Mattachine Society is formed by Harry Hay, and becomes the country’s first national gay rights organization.1956: National lesbian group The Daughters of Bilitis is formed.1962: Illinois becomes the first state in the U.S. to decriminalize private consensual homosexual acts between adults.1965: The first gay rights protests occur in Washington, D.C. and in front of Philadelphia’s Independence Hall.1969: The Stonewall Riots begin on June 27 and last for three days, launching the previously quiet gay rights movement into a massive period of social change, with membership in organizations increasing into the thousands in a year. 1971-73: The Gay Raiders, a gay militant group, campaign to get television networks to feature and discuss gay people on the air. They disrupt various programs including the CBS Evening News.1973: The American Psychiatric Association removes homosexuality from its official list of mental disorders.1975: Governor Milton Shapp of Pennsylvania creates the first committee to research and report on discrimination against sexual minorities. One year later, Governor Shapp issues an executive order outlawing discrimination against sexual minorities in employment, housing and public accommodation in his state.1981: The first cases of AIDS in gay men in New York and Los Angeles are reported. 1982: Wisconsin becomes the first state legislature to outlaw discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.1982: The first Gay Games take place in San Francisco, drawing more than 1,350 athletes.1985: A spokesperson for actor Rock Hudson acknowledges the star has AIDS, bringing the disease to the media forefront for the first time.1993: The “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy is instituted for the U.S. military, permitting gays to serve in the military but banning homosexual activity. Thousands of gay and lesbian persons are relieved of their positions.1996: The Supreme Court strikes down Colorado’s Amendment 2, which denied gays and lesbians protections against discrimination. 1997: Ellen DeGeneres’ character, Ellen Morgan, comes out as a lesbian on the popular sit-com “Ellen,” drawing 36 million viewers. DeGeneres also comes out publicly as a lesbian.2000: Vermont becomes the first state in the country to legally recognize civil unions between gay or lesbian couples.2003: The Supreme Court rules in Lawrence v. Texas that laws prohibiting sodomy are unconstitutional.2004: On May 17, same-sex marriages become legal in Massachusetts.2005: Civil unions become legal in Connecticut in Oct. 2005.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Five pioneers The place in LGBT history October 13, 2006
October 13, 2006
http://www.gaypeopleschronicle.com/stories06/october/1013066.htm
Five pioneers
By Jason Villemezand Anthony Glassman
Frank Kameny
The place in LGBT history of Frank Kameny, co-founder of the Washington D.C. chapter of the Mattachine Society, was cemented on October 6 when he donated 70,000 documents and letters to the Library of Congress, where they will be available for viewing by researchers.
One of the founders of the modern American LGBT rights movement, Kameny brought a radical, take-charge attitude in place of more assimilationist policies that plagued many early gay leaders. A child prodigy and World War II veteran, Kameny obtained a Ph.D. in astronomy from Harvard University in 1956 and began work for the Army Map Service in 1957.
However, months into the job, rumors circulated about Kameny’s homosexuality, which culminated in his firing from the Map Service and being barred from all civil service jobs, following a McCarthy-era mandate against any homosexuals in the government.
Kameny fought to regain his job for five years, including a personal appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court and a suit against the government, both of which were denied. Finally, in 1961, he decided to join with Jack Nichols to establish a D.C. version of the homophile group Mattachine Society.
Reflecting both Kameny’s personal priorities and local complaints, the Mattachine Society of Washington focused on ending sexual orientation discrimination in civil service positions and the military. It organized the first gay protests in front of the White House in April 1965, in which Kameny, Barbara Gittings, and other prominent activists participated.
Kameny’s work along with the Mattachine Society eventually led the Civil Service Commission to amend its anti-gay policies in 1975. He also advised countless armed services members in coping with military policies. In addition to his civil and military service work, he also battled the American Psychiatric Association in an effort to remove homosexuality as a mental disorder, disrupting the APA annual meeting in 1971 and fostering the eventual removal of homosexuality from its list of illnesses.
To top off an already growing list of achievements, Kameny became the first openly gay person to run for Congress, using the campaign to publicize the issue of unequal government treatment of the community.
He is one of the oldest surviving activists, celebrating his 80th birthday last May.
Tammy Baldwin
Tammy Baldwin is the only openly lesbian member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the only person elected to Congress after coming out.
Representing Wisconsin’s 2nd District since her election in 1998, Baldwin has been a champion of gay rights during her tenure, as well as a host of other issues including health care, the environment, and women’s rights.
Her political career has spanned more than two decades, from her beginnings on the Dane County, Wis., Board of Supervisors to her fourth consecutive term in Congress. Born and raised in her congressional district by her Caucasian mother and African American stepfather, Baldwin knew from experience at an early age the privilege given to her because of her race and the hardships faced as a result of both her gender and her sexuality.
She attended Smith College in Massachusetts, majoring in government and mathematics, and immediately after graduation returned home to Wisconsin to begin her political career and attend the University of Wisconsin Law School. In addition to serving as a Dane County supervisor, she was a Wisconsin state representative for five years until her election to national office.
Many considered her grassroots 1998 campaign in far too liberal, but Baldwin did not compromise, standing strong in her support of universal health care, advanced care for the elderly, public funding for day care programs and stricter environmental standards. All the issues for which Baldwin stands are the results of her own experiences. Her grandmother had extensive medical expenses which Baldwin helped pay for, shaping her views on health care, specifically for the elderly.
Growing up within her mother’s and stepfather’s families helped enlighten her on the importance of family support, an idea she has broached through day care reform. But perhaps the largest inspiration for Baldwin’s political career has been her mother, who turned around an addiction to prescription drugs and became a counselor, working with patients suffering from similar addictions. Baldwin, like her mother, has overcome tremendous challenges and become a positive role model for both her Wisconsin constituents and the entire LGBT community.
Samuel R. Delaney and Octavia Butler
Samuel Ray Delaney Jr. and Octavia Butler broke two barriers in the world of science fiction.
The two are undoubtedly the best-known African American science fiction authors in the world, and they are also likely the most famous gay man and lesbian science fiction authors as well.
While Butler, who died in early 2006 at the age of 58, tended to describe herself as “asocial” and a hermit, Delaney’s public acceptance of his homosexuality extended into his writing.
Dahlgren, his 1975 apocalyptic novel, featured a bisexual hero, and other books have featured transgendered protagonists, societies where sexual divergence is considered the norm and collections of short stories as varied as the colors of the rainbow flag.
Delaney, who is still alive, went on to keynote the 1991 International Gay and Lesbian Studies Conference and the 1993 Outwrite convention. His work in literary criticism and in support of viewing science fiction as a valid form of literature instead of mass-market tripe has earned him at least as much respect as his fiction.
Butler covered issues of gender and sexuality in her writing, but not in as clarion a manner. Nor did she ever write an autobiography as frenetic as Delaney’s, The Motion of Light in Water.
However, between the two of them, they illustrated that a field once dominated by middle-aged white heterosexual men had grown and evolved, much as the characters in many science fiction novels do.
Harvey Milk
Just over a year after he was elected to San Francisco’s Board of Supervisors in 1977, Harvey Milk was assassinated with Mayor George Moscone in City Hall, the victim of a former supervisor’s outrage over the liberal shift in city politics. Milk was instantly made a martyr of the gay community.
Sensing the danger of his position within city government, he had created several recorded wills to be played in the event of his assassination. One memorable line is inscribed today in a plaza named for him: “If a bullet should enter my brain, let that bullet destroy every closet door.”
The gunman, Dan White, was charged with murder but convicted of manslaughter. He served only five years in prison and committed suicide in 1985 shortly after his release. White’s trial strategy is infamously known as the “Twinkie defense,” in which his lawyer argued that White was mentally affected by a large amount of junk food he had eaten.
The lenient verdict inflamed members of San Francisco’s gay community, and that evening, a mob gathered at City Hall in what was to be known as the White Night Riots. Outraged citizens clashed with police, who later took on their own anti-gay agenda, beating individuals and destroying property in the largely gay Castro neighborhood.
The next day was Harvey Milk’s birthday, and, fearing a second night of rioting, the city permitted Castro Street to be closed in celebration of Milk and his legacy. The celebration went smoothly as individuals spoke on a makeshift stage and disco music filled the air, a fitting tribute to a man named as one of the 100 most influential politicians by Time magazine.
Milk’s political journey ended abruptly, but not without a budding, still-growing legacy. Along with an annual commemorative candlelight march in San Francisco honoring Milk and Moscone, the Harvey Milk High School in New York serves at-risk LGBT youth, and several notable landmarks in San Francisco’s Castro district have been named for him, all of which are a testament to his impact on the community in San Francisco and across the country.
http://www.gaypeopleschronicle.com/stories06/october/1013066.htm
Five pioneers
By Jason Villemezand Anthony Glassman
Frank Kameny
The place in LGBT history of Frank Kameny, co-founder of the Washington D.C. chapter of the Mattachine Society, was cemented on October 6 when he donated 70,000 documents and letters to the Library of Congress, where they will be available for viewing by researchers.
One of the founders of the modern American LGBT rights movement, Kameny brought a radical, take-charge attitude in place of more assimilationist policies that plagued many early gay leaders. A child prodigy and World War II veteran, Kameny obtained a Ph.D. in astronomy from Harvard University in 1956 and began work for the Army Map Service in 1957.
However, months into the job, rumors circulated about Kameny’s homosexuality, which culminated in his firing from the Map Service and being barred from all civil service jobs, following a McCarthy-era mandate against any homosexuals in the government.
Kameny fought to regain his job for five years, including a personal appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court and a suit against the government, both of which were denied. Finally, in 1961, he decided to join with Jack Nichols to establish a D.C. version of the homophile group Mattachine Society.
Reflecting both Kameny’s personal priorities and local complaints, the Mattachine Society of Washington focused on ending sexual orientation discrimination in civil service positions and the military. It organized the first gay protests in front of the White House in April 1965, in which Kameny, Barbara Gittings, and other prominent activists participated.
Kameny’s work along with the Mattachine Society eventually led the Civil Service Commission to amend its anti-gay policies in 1975. He also advised countless armed services members in coping with military policies. In addition to his civil and military service work, he also battled the American Psychiatric Association in an effort to remove homosexuality as a mental disorder, disrupting the APA annual meeting in 1971 and fostering the eventual removal of homosexuality from its list of illnesses.
To top off an already growing list of achievements, Kameny became the first openly gay person to run for Congress, using the campaign to publicize the issue of unequal government treatment of the community.
He is one of the oldest surviving activists, celebrating his 80th birthday last May.
Tammy Baldwin
Tammy Baldwin is the only openly lesbian member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the only person elected to Congress after coming out.
Representing Wisconsin’s 2nd District since her election in 1998, Baldwin has been a champion of gay rights during her tenure, as well as a host of other issues including health care, the environment, and women’s rights.
Her political career has spanned more than two decades, from her beginnings on the Dane County, Wis., Board of Supervisors to her fourth consecutive term in Congress. Born and raised in her congressional district by her Caucasian mother and African American stepfather, Baldwin knew from experience at an early age the privilege given to her because of her race and the hardships faced as a result of both her gender and her sexuality.
She attended Smith College in Massachusetts, majoring in government and mathematics, and immediately after graduation returned home to Wisconsin to begin her political career and attend the University of Wisconsin Law School. In addition to serving as a Dane County supervisor, she was a Wisconsin state representative for five years until her election to national office.
Many considered her grassroots 1998 campaign in far too liberal, but Baldwin did not compromise, standing strong in her support of universal health care, advanced care for the elderly, public funding for day care programs and stricter environmental standards. All the issues for which Baldwin stands are the results of her own experiences. Her grandmother had extensive medical expenses which Baldwin helped pay for, shaping her views on health care, specifically for the elderly.
Growing up within her mother’s and stepfather’s families helped enlighten her on the importance of family support, an idea she has broached through day care reform. But perhaps the largest inspiration for Baldwin’s political career has been her mother, who turned around an addiction to prescription drugs and became a counselor, working with patients suffering from similar addictions. Baldwin, like her mother, has overcome tremendous challenges and become a positive role model for both her Wisconsin constituents and the entire LGBT community.
Samuel R. Delaney and Octavia Butler
Samuel Ray Delaney Jr. and Octavia Butler broke two barriers in the world of science fiction.
The two are undoubtedly the best-known African American science fiction authors in the world, and they are also likely the most famous gay man and lesbian science fiction authors as well.
While Butler, who died in early 2006 at the age of 58, tended to describe herself as “asocial” and a hermit, Delaney’s public acceptance of his homosexuality extended into his writing.
Dahlgren, his 1975 apocalyptic novel, featured a bisexual hero, and other books have featured transgendered protagonists, societies where sexual divergence is considered the norm and collections of short stories as varied as the colors of the rainbow flag.
Delaney, who is still alive, went on to keynote the 1991 International Gay and Lesbian Studies Conference and the 1993 Outwrite convention. His work in literary criticism and in support of viewing science fiction as a valid form of literature instead of mass-market tripe has earned him at least as much respect as his fiction.
Butler covered issues of gender and sexuality in her writing, but not in as clarion a manner. Nor did she ever write an autobiography as frenetic as Delaney’s, The Motion of Light in Water.
However, between the two of them, they illustrated that a field once dominated by middle-aged white heterosexual men had grown and evolved, much as the characters in many science fiction novels do.
Harvey Milk
Just over a year after he was elected to San Francisco’s Board of Supervisors in 1977, Harvey Milk was assassinated with Mayor George Moscone in City Hall, the victim of a former supervisor’s outrage over the liberal shift in city politics. Milk was instantly made a martyr of the gay community.
Sensing the danger of his position within city government, he had created several recorded wills to be played in the event of his assassination. One memorable line is inscribed today in a plaza named for him: “If a bullet should enter my brain, let that bullet destroy every closet door.”
The gunman, Dan White, was charged with murder but convicted of manslaughter. He served only five years in prison and committed suicide in 1985 shortly after his release. White’s trial strategy is infamously known as the “Twinkie defense,” in which his lawyer argued that White was mentally affected by a large amount of junk food he had eaten.
The lenient verdict inflamed members of San Francisco’s gay community, and that evening, a mob gathered at City Hall in what was to be known as the White Night Riots. Outraged citizens clashed with police, who later took on their own anti-gay agenda, beating individuals and destroying property in the largely gay Castro neighborhood.
The next day was Harvey Milk’s birthday, and, fearing a second night of rioting, the city permitted Castro Street to be closed in celebration of Milk and his legacy. The celebration went smoothly as individuals spoke on a makeshift stage and disco music filled the air, a fitting tribute to a man named as one of the 100 most influential politicians by Time magazine.
Milk’s political journey ended abruptly, but not without a budding, still-growing legacy. Along with an annual commemorative candlelight march in San Francisco honoring Milk and Moscone, the Harvey Milk High School in New York serves at-risk LGBT youth, and several notable landmarks in San Francisco’s Castro district have been named for him, all of which are a testament to his impact on the community in San Francisco and across the country.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
AP Interview: Beebe says gay foster parents could cause stigma
Oct 10, 3:59 PM EDT
AP Interview: Beebe says gay foster parents could cause stigma
By ANDREW DeMILLO Associated Press Writer
LITTLE ROCK (AP) -- Democratic gubernatorial nominee Mike Beebe on Tuesday said he supports reinstating a ban on gay foster parents partly because of a stigma he says children may face if they are raised by homosexuals.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Beebe - the state's attorney general - said he doesn't believe allowing gay people to become foster parents would be in the best interest of the children.
"The best interest of the child, in my opinion, is not to support gay foster parents," Beebe said.
The Arkansas Supreme Court on June 29 struck down the state's ban on gay foster parents and Beebe said the day after the ruling that he opposed allowing gay people to foster children.
Advertisement
"It's an issue of what's in the best interest of the child and what children go through in today's society, including but not limited to stigma," Beebe said.
Beebe was interviewed Tuesday at the AP's office in Little Rock, and the AP interviewed Republican nominee Asa Hutchinson on Monday. Independent candidate Rod Bryan and Green Party nominee Jim Lendall also appear on the Nov. 7 ballot.
The Stonewall Democratic Club of Arkansas, a gay-advocacy group, this year withdrew its endorsement of Beebe because the attorney general returned a check the organization had sent to support his campaign.
The club's president said the group felt misled by Beebe after he said he would support efforts to ban gays from becoming foster parents.
Beebe's spokesman had denied a report that Beebe met with members of the group to talk about the returned check and told them he was committed to trying to prevent any measure banning gay people or unmarried couples from being foster parents.
Beebe said on Tuesday that he told the group he would not support any legislation that would be found "unconstitutionally discriminatory."
"Discrimination exists to some extent in all parts of our lives. The question is, is it discrimination that rises to the level of being unconstitutional?" Beebe said. "What I said is I won't support any legislation that's unconstitional, and I won't."
Beebe wouldn't speculate on whether society would reach a point where there wouldn't be a stigma associated with gay people as foster parents.
And even though a stigma was once associated with interracial couples, Beebe said he wouldn't support banning them from becoming foster parents.
"The truth of the matter is our society evolves over time," Beebe said. "They change and people change."
Beebe, an Episcopalian, said he disagrees with his church's decision to bestow formal blessings on gay couples. The Right Rev. Larry Maze, bishop of the 14,000-member Episcopal Diocese of Arkansas, told clergy in a letter this year that such blessings are OK.
The ceremonies allow for local observances in each church, not approved formal rites. Arkansas has banned gay marriage, so same-sex couples will have no legal standing in the state.
"I've been fairly vocal about the fact that I think that marriage is between a man and a woman and I think the majority of my church believes that as well," Beebe said.
Beebe said he doesn't see a difference between civil unions and gay marriage and said he doesn't see civil unions coming to Arkansas.
"I see marriage as a sacred insittution," Beebe
AP Interview: Beebe says gay foster parents could cause stigma
By ANDREW DeMILLO Associated Press Writer
LITTLE ROCK (AP) -- Democratic gubernatorial nominee Mike Beebe on Tuesday said he supports reinstating a ban on gay foster parents partly because of a stigma he says children may face if they are raised by homosexuals.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Beebe - the state's attorney general - said he doesn't believe allowing gay people to become foster parents would be in the best interest of the children.
"The best interest of the child, in my opinion, is not to support gay foster parents," Beebe said.
The Arkansas Supreme Court on June 29 struck down the state's ban on gay foster parents and Beebe said the day after the ruling that he opposed allowing gay people to foster children.
Advertisement
"It's an issue of what's in the best interest of the child and what children go through in today's society, including but not limited to stigma," Beebe said.
Beebe was interviewed Tuesday at the AP's office in Little Rock, and the AP interviewed Republican nominee Asa Hutchinson on Monday. Independent candidate Rod Bryan and Green Party nominee Jim Lendall also appear on the Nov. 7 ballot.
The Stonewall Democratic Club of Arkansas, a gay-advocacy group, this year withdrew its endorsement of Beebe because the attorney general returned a check the organization had sent to support his campaign.
The club's president said the group felt misled by Beebe after he said he would support efforts to ban gays from becoming foster parents.
Beebe's spokesman had denied a report that Beebe met with members of the group to talk about the returned check and told them he was committed to trying to prevent any measure banning gay people or unmarried couples from being foster parents.
Beebe said on Tuesday that he told the group he would not support any legislation that would be found "unconstitutionally discriminatory."
"Discrimination exists to some extent in all parts of our lives. The question is, is it discrimination that rises to the level of being unconstitutional?" Beebe said. "What I said is I won't support any legislation that's unconstitional, and I won't."
Beebe wouldn't speculate on whether society would reach a point where there wouldn't be a stigma associated with gay people as foster parents.
And even though a stigma was once associated with interracial couples, Beebe said he wouldn't support banning them from becoming foster parents.
"The truth of the matter is our society evolves over time," Beebe said. "They change and people change."
Beebe, an Episcopalian, said he disagrees with his church's decision to bestow formal blessings on gay couples. The Right Rev. Larry Maze, bishop of the 14,000-member Episcopal Diocese of Arkansas, told clergy in a letter this year that such blessings are OK.
The ceremonies allow for local observances in each church, not approved formal rites. Arkansas has banned gay marriage, so same-sex couples will have no legal standing in the state.
"I've been fairly vocal about the fact that I think that marriage is between a man and a woman and I think the majority of my church believes that as well," Beebe said.
Beebe said he doesn't see a difference between civil unions and gay marriage and said he doesn't see civil unions coming to Arkansas.
"I see marriage as a sacred insittution," Beebe
If we can believe in a beautiful future for mankind, it's because we believe in our own capability to create that future with our own minds and spirit and intellects and hands and courage and power. Not because a benign Nature is going to hand it to us on a silver platter just because we wish it would happen already.
I believe it is greatly apparent that a great majority of Americans that voted for the Bush Administration voted out of fear. Since September 11th, our nation has lost the ability to think on their own. This has got to be turned around. The charade must be ended.
This adminstration and most Republicans alike have no interest in equal rights for the gay/lesbian community, I don't care what the Log Cabin Republican group has to say. If they want to settle for unequal but somewhat better rights they are not ready to fight the battle. Our community deserves much better!
With everything at stake concerning equal rights, foreign relations, the economy, and the environment, I can't understand why more people can't see anything other than what is in front of their face.
Granted, we don't seem to have strong leadership in the Democratic Party like what we had when Clinton was in office, however if Democrats don't start becoming a more active participant, and forcing the Democratic Party to represent the fundamental principles that the Democratic Party is designed to represent we will never have great leadership.
We have an opportunity to take the country back and put it in the hands of the Democratic Party or we can sit back and wish for a better world. This is a turning point. If we keep the Republicans in office, we may just see the lifespan of our lives become the most depressing means of living beyond comprehension.
It's time to wake up!! Get involved!! Get Smart!
These are my opinions.
I believe it is greatly apparent that a great majority of Americans that voted for the Bush Administration voted out of fear. Since September 11th, our nation has lost the ability to think on their own. This has got to be turned around. The charade must be ended.
This adminstration and most Republicans alike have no interest in equal rights for the gay/lesbian community, I don't care what the Log Cabin Republican group has to say. If they want to settle for unequal but somewhat better rights they are not ready to fight the battle. Our community deserves much better!
With everything at stake concerning equal rights, foreign relations, the economy, and the environment, I can't understand why more people can't see anything other than what is in front of their face.
Granted, we don't seem to have strong leadership in the Democratic Party like what we had when Clinton was in office, however if Democrats don't start becoming a more active participant, and forcing the Democratic Party to represent the fundamental principles that the Democratic Party is designed to represent we will never have great leadership.
We have an opportunity to take the country back and put it in the hands of the Democratic Party or we can sit back and wish for a better world. This is a turning point. If we keep the Republicans in office, we may just see the lifespan of our lives become the most depressing means of living beyond comprehension.
It's time to wake up!! Get involved!! Get Smart!
These are my opinions.
October 10, 2006 ,Queer writer John Rechy to receive Culture Hero Award
October 10, 2006 Queer writer John Rechy to receive Culture Hero Award
Author John Rechy has been chosen as the recipient of the 2006 ONE Culture Hero Award.
The award, which will be presented by the ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives on October 28 in Los Angeles, recognizes Rechy’s work as a writer, teacher, and activist in the LGBT community. The program for the award, entitled “An Outlaw at One,” will take place at ONE’s annual fundraiser and will include remarks from Rechy himself.
Rechy has penned seventeen volumes of fiction, documentary, drama and essays during his career. His first novel was City of Night (1963), a bestselling multifaceted look at gay life in numerous American cities, particularly Los Angeles. 1974’s The Sexual Outlaw further delved into the queer sexual subculture of 1970s America and won praise from the Los Angeles Times and the New York Times. His latest work, Beneath the Skin: The Collected Essays of John Rechy, was published in 2004. He currently lives in Los Angeles and teaches literature and film courses for writers in the graduate school of the University of Southern California.
ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives is the world’s largest research library on LGBT heritage. Their collections range from historical documents, printed records, photographs and other assorted significant objects relating to LGBT culture and history. ONE is affiliated with (though not governed by) the University of Southern California. For more information, visit www.onearchives.org.
Author John Rechy has been chosen as the recipient of the 2006 ONE Culture Hero Award.
The award, which will be presented by the ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives on October 28 in Los Angeles, recognizes Rechy’s work as a writer, teacher, and activist in the LGBT community. The program for the award, entitled “An Outlaw at One,” will take place at ONE’s annual fundraiser and will include remarks from Rechy himself.
Rechy has penned seventeen volumes of fiction, documentary, drama and essays during his career. His first novel was City of Night (1963), a bestselling multifaceted look at gay life in numerous American cities, particularly Los Angeles. 1974’s The Sexual Outlaw further delved into the queer sexual subculture of 1970s America and won praise from the Los Angeles Times and the New York Times. His latest work, Beneath the Skin: The Collected Essays of John Rechy, was published in 2004. He currently lives in Los Angeles and teaches literature and film courses for writers in the graduate school of the University of Southern California.
ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives is the world’s largest research library on LGBT heritage. Their collections range from historical documents, printed records, photographs and other assorted significant objects relating to LGBT culture and history. ONE is affiliated with (though not governed by) the University of Southern California. For more information, visit www.onearchives.org.
Monday, October 09, 2006
[ucaprism] Meeting Minutes Oct. 5, 2006.
[ucaprism] Meeting Minutes Oct. 5, 2006.
I. Straight Answers to Gay Questions was Oct. 4summary of program. Kinsey Scale explaination. II. Hendrix GSAW week activitiesspeaker Jay Barth Thursday Oct 5. 7:15 in Burrow.Sadie Hawkins dance Friday on baseball field. 9:00Parade Saturday. Line up at noon on Markham St. by Hendrix. Be there before noon? Activities at the Pink House afterward (1604 Robinson St.) games, face painting, stenciling workshop, drag king show, free food. Queer Bash at 10:30. Drinks sold for fundraiser for CLQA. UBU in LR Drag King show.Prism float. Right to Serve Campaign theme. Camo truck. Signs. Dress in camo. Spray painting tonight, also coming out day activities, start float. 9:00 on sat. decorate truck for float. III. Coming Out DayGame show setup. Gay music. 10-4. game show 2 hours. Donations for prizes. Need people for panel. Game show sets up at 9? Starts at 10:45. pink triangles with info. Need people to set up triangles. Information booth. Buttons, balloons, glittery stuff. Need to make buttons. Need people to be at the booth all day. Rainy day plans? Booth in student center? Postpone main activities? vote on new name for game show. Will be on yahoogroup -Hollywood Triangles-Hollywood Squares Queer/Alternative/LGBTQQA/Diversity Edition-Homowood Squares-Tic-Tac-Homo-Hollywood Squares Coming Out EditionIV. Anniversary of Matthew Shepherd's Deathkilled in a hate crime. Showing of The Laramie Project on big outdoor TV on campus Oct. 12 at 8:00 V. Creating Change Conference. Board members going soon to ask for funding for Nov conference in Kansas City VI. Stop Kissget tickets nowVII. Transgender Day of RememberanceNov. 20VIII. Social EventsMATT IS THE ACTIVITIES CHAIR!!!!! Social events need to go through social chair. No actual social event this weekget together and make sure everything is ready for Coming Out Day on Mon and Tues nights. Conact Ashley if want to help!!! 501-844-5285Coming up Social Event:Pumpkin carving and painting and such. Mon. 16? (will decide date at next general meeting) at Ashley's apt's backyard. 310A Hubbard- campus Mountaineer apts. BYOP (bring your own pumpkin) bring carving junk and paint and things. You can wear costumes if you wanna. Camping trip over fall break? Wed, thurs, fri. night. Caddo Gap. Hinking and floating and such. $3 per person per night. Not official PRISM event, but all members from PRISM invited. Contact Cody Bray if interested.
I. Straight Answers to Gay Questions was Oct. 4summary of program. Kinsey Scale explaination. II. Hendrix GSAW week activitiesspeaker Jay Barth Thursday Oct 5. 7:15 in Burrow.Sadie Hawkins dance Friday on baseball field. 9:00Parade Saturday. Line up at noon on Markham St. by Hendrix. Be there before noon? Activities at the Pink House afterward (1604 Robinson St.) games, face painting, stenciling workshop, drag king show, free food. Queer Bash at 10:30. Drinks sold for fundraiser for CLQA. UBU in LR Drag King show.Prism float. Right to Serve Campaign theme. Camo truck. Signs. Dress in camo. Spray painting tonight, also coming out day activities, start float. 9:00 on sat. decorate truck for float. III. Coming Out DayGame show setup. Gay music. 10-4. game show 2 hours. Donations for prizes. Need people for panel. Game show sets up at 9? Starts at 10:45. pink triangles with info. Need people to set up triangles. Information booth. Buttons, balloons, glittery stuff. Need to make buttons. Need people to be at the booth all day. Rainy day plans? Booth in student center? Postpone main activities? vote on new name for game show. Will be on yahoogroup -Hollywood Triangles-Hollywood Squares Queer/Alternative/LGBTQQA/Diversity Edition-Homowood Squares-Tic-Tac-Homo-Hollywood Squares Coming Out EditionIV. Anniversary of Matthew Shepherd's Deathkilled in a hate crime. Showing of The Laramie Project on big outdoor TV on campus Oct. 12 at 8:00 V. Creating Change Conference. Board members going soon to ask for funding for Nov conference in Kansas City VI. Stop Kissget tickets nowVII. Transgender Day of RememberanceNov. 20VIII. Social EventsMATT IS THE ACTIVITIES CHAIR!!!!! Social events need to go through social chair. No actual social event this weekget together and make sure everything is ready for Coming Out Day on Mon and Tues nights. Conact Ashley if want to help!!! 501-844-5285Coming up Social Event:Pumpkin carving and painting and such. Mon. 16? (will decide date at next general meeting) at Ashley's apt's backyard. 310A Hubbard- campus Mountaineer apts. BYOP (bring your own pumpkin) bring carving junk and paint and things. You can wear costumes if you wanna. Camping trip over fall break? Wed, thurs, fri. night. Caddo Gap. Hinking and floating and such. $3 per person per night. Not official PRISM event, but all members from PRISM invited. Contact Cody Bray if interested.
12 SUGGESTIONS FOR TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF GLBTG ISSUES
12 SUGGESTIONS FOR TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
1. Learn to air your feelings.Don't keep them bottled up inside you. Share yoursorrows and disappointments with someone youtrust. Remember, expressed feelings are changedfeelings.
2. Avoid comparing yourself with others by admiringtheir gifts and ignoring your gifts. This kind of envy causes self-disgust. Put no one'shead higher than your own.
3. Form a small group of people you can call onfor emotional support.Agree to 'be there' for each other. Offer adviceonly when it is asked for. Listen without interrupting.Take turns talking and listening.
4. Take time to play. Remember that play is any activity that you do justbecause it feels good. Remind yourself that youdeserve to take time to play.
5. Don't forget to laugh, especially at yourself. Look for the humor in things around you. Letyour hair down more often. Do something sillyand totally unexpected from time to time.
6. Learn to relax. You can find books, tapes, programs, classes,instructors and other materials to teach youhow to relax. Relaxation improves the mind,helps the body heal, and feels so much betterthan stress and tension.
7. Protect your right to be human. Don't let others put you on a pedestal. Whenpeople put you on a pedestal, they expect youto be perfect and feel angry when you let them down.
8. Learn to say no. As you become comfortable saying no to theunreasonable expectations, requests or demandsof others you will discover that you have morecompassion. When you do say yes to others, youwill feel better about yourself and the peopleyou're responding to.
9. Change jobs if you are miserable at work. First, try to figure out if the job is wrong for youor if certain people are causing you to feelmiserable at work. Try paying more attentionto the things you enjoy about your job and lessattention to the things that annoy you.Remember that all jobs have some unpleasantaspects.
10. Stretch your muscles. Break a sweat. Go for a walk. Ride a bike. Parkfarther from the door. Take the stairs. You don'tneed fancy clothes, club memberships orexpensive equipment to add exercise to yourdaily life.
11. Practice being a positive, encouraging person. Each time you give others a word of encouragementyou not only feel better, but you build up your best self.
12. Pay attention to your spiritual life. Slow down. Practice sitting quietly. Listen to yourinner voice. Spend time thinking about the thingswhich bring peace, beauty and serenity to your life.Find the courage to follow your own spiritual path ifa traditional religion has not been helpful for you.~THIS IS A COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT...........
If You need help we are here to help you.Drugs/Alcohol/Loneliness/Gambling/Workaholic?Are these or other addictions taking over your life?Abused as a child?Just want someone to talk to?We are here to help you.Would you like to find a new way of living? If you're a recovering addict, would you like to share your Experiences, Strengths, and Hopes?We are here to help you.Your history and experiences can helpmany others so PLEASE share with us.A 12 Steps program originated.Whether your dealing with an addiction issue, dealing with a mental health issue, abuse issues,licensed counselors are on board to help you.
THERE ARE FEW PLACES YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCEAND PERHAPS SAVE LIVES SO HELP OTHERS PLEASE.
http://groups.msn.com/BacktotheBasicsPlease
Join us as we get Back to the Basics with our lives.A Proud Member of the PARTNERS IN PRIDE Site Ring.
(No Spamming please for Pay Sites)
__._,_.___
SPONSORED LINKS
Physical disabilities
Mental illness and substance abuse
Mental illness
Gay rights
Mental illness bipolar disorder
This is the AGH OFFICAL PSA and SPOTLIGHT ORG for the Year and Partnerships in Gay male pride ,members websites endorsments ....... AGH is a Proud member, of this National ORG.....
AEKANSAS GAY HISTORY
EDITOR Oct,9 2006.
1. Learn to air your feelings.Don't keep them bottled up inside you. Share yoursorrows and disappointments with someone youtrust. Remember, expressed feelings are changedfeelings.
2. Avoid comparing yourself with others by admiringtheir gifts and ignoring your gifts. This kind of envy causes self-disgust. Put no one'shead higher than your own.
3. Form a small group of people you can call onfor emotional support.Agree to 'be there' for each other. Offer adviceonly when it is asked for. Listen without interrupting.Take turns talking and listening.
4. Take time to play. Remember that play is any activity that you do justbecause it feels good. Remind yourself that youdeserve to take time to play.
5. Don't forget to laugh, especially at yourself. Look for the humor in things around you. Letyour hair down more often. Do something sillyand totally unexpected from time to time.
6. Learn to relax. You can find books, tapes, programs, classes,instructors and other materials to teach youhow to relax. Relaxation improves the mind,helps the body heal, and feels so much betterthan stress and tension.
7. Protect your right to be human. Don't let others put you on a pedestal. Whenpeople put you on a pedestal, they expect youto be perfect and feel angry when you let them down.
8. Learn to say no. As you become comfortable saying no to theunreasonable expectations, requests or demandsof others you will discover that you have morecompassion. When you do say yes to others, youwill feel better about yourself and the peopleyou're responding to.
9. Change jobs if you are miserable at work. First, try to figure out if the job is wrong for youor if certain people are causing you to feelmiserable at work. Try paying more attentionto the things you enjoy about your job and lessattention to the things that annoy you.Remember that all jobs have some unpleasantaspects.
10. Stretch your muscles. Break a sweat. Go for a walk. Ride a bike. Parkfarther from the door. Take the stairs. You don'tneed fancy clothes, club memberships orexpensive equipment to add exercise to yourdaily life.
11. Practice being a positive, encouraging person. Each time you give others a word of encouragementyou not only feel better, but you build up your best self.
12. Pay attention to your spiritual life. Slow down. Practice sitting quietly. Listen to yourinner voice. Spend time thinking about the thingswhich bring peace, beauty and serenity to your life.Find the courage to follow your own spiritual path ifa traditional religion has not been helpful for you.~THIS IS A COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENT...........
If You need help we are here to help you.Drugs/Alcohol/Loneliness/Gambling/Workaholic?Are these or other addictions taking over your life?Abused as a child?Just want someone to talk to?We are here to help you.Would you like to find a new way of living? If you're a recovering addict, would you like to share your Experiences, Strengths, and Hopes?We are here to help you.Your history and experiences can helpmany others so PLEASE share with us.A 12 Steps program originated.Whether your dealing with an addiction issue, dealing with a mental health issue, abuse issues,licensed counselors are on board to help you.
THERE ARE FEW PLACES YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCEAND PERHAPS SAVE LIVES SO HELP OTHERS PLEASE.
http://groups.msn.com/BacktotheBasicsPlease
Join us as we get Back to the Basics with our lives.A Proud Member of the PARTNERS IN PRIDE Site Ring.
(No Spamming please for Pay Sites)
__._,_.___
SPONSORED LINKS
Physical disabilities
Mental illness and substance abuse
Mental illness
Gay rights
Mental illness bipolar disorder
This is the AGH OFFICAL PSA and SPOTLIGHT ORG for the Year and Partnerships in Gay male pride ,members websites endorsments ....... AGH is a Proud member, of this National ORG.....
AEKANSAS GAY HISTORY
EDITOR Oct,9 2006.
Congressman on gay history Exclusive to PGN /AGH By Rep. Barney Frank
Congressman on gay history Exclusive to PGN/AGH BLOGS
By Rep. Barney Frank
While serving as an ambulance driver during the Spanish Civil War, George Orwell was shot in the neck. When people congratulated him on his good luck at having recovered, he replied that he believed people who had never been shot in the neck in the first place were even luckier than he.
It is appropriate to keep this in mind when we discuss the history of the fight of sexual minorities against the prejudice that has blighted so many lives. But no one should expect us to be grateful for this fact: People who were never subjected to a vicious prejudice in the first place are the ones who should be grateful, not those of us who have fought hard to diminish prejudice but still encounter it.
In mentioning this progress, I refer to the political history of GLBT people. Obviously, there are personal and cultural aspects to our lives and the history of those extend much further back. But few political movements have a more clear starting point than our fight against prejudice.Beginning in January 1968, I served as the executive assistant to the mayor of Boston, with a particular responsibility for dealing with issues that were important to liberals. I worked hard on the rights of women, on racial equality, on the rights of workers. One area where I did no work was in the fight against homophobia, not because I was unsympathetic or uninterested, but simply because there was no such effort being waged.
The Stonewall resistance in 1969 clearly triggered a movement in which GLBT people finally asked, “What about us?” Having left Boston for Washington, D.C., for a year from 1971-72, I returned, as a candidate for State Representative, to find a new but vigorous political movement of gay men and lesbians that had not existed when I left.
While I did not come out publicly until May of 1987, I did join the fight in 1972 and in December of that year, having been elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives, I filed for the first time in Massachusetts history gay-rights bills as a legislator who strongly supported them.
I realize many GLBT activists today feel beleaguered by the flood of anti-marriage amendments that have sadly passed in a number of states. But this is the paradox of being involved in a movement committed to social change: By definition, at any given moment we will be engaged in an uphill fight. It is our job to change deeply held feelings. But it is one thing to change opinion in general; it is another to persuade members of a majority who do not feel the pain of the victims of discrimination that longstanding social practices should be changed in accordance with that sentiment.
In the early 1960s – before Stonewall – not one member of Congress objected when an immigration bill generally supported by liberals went through that toughened the anti-LGBT prohibition. And nowhere in America were there any laws or court rulings that protected any of us against discrimination of any sort.
Today, not only has that immigration provision been completely repealed, but GLBT people from foreign countries who can show that they were being persecuted in their homelands because of their sexual orientation or gender identification have received asylum in the U.S., because under Bill Clinton the Justice Department officially recognized such persecution as a serious violation of human rights. While we still lack a national law protecting us against job discrimination, a large number of states has such legal protections.
Most importantly, there’s been a fundamental change in attitude. In 1973, when the Massachusetts House first debated gay-rights legislation, our opponents were fairly explicit in explaining their opposition: “I’m not gonna hire any fag or any lesbian to work for me,” members would say. When we first began the fight, our opponents made no effort to hide their homophobia.
The key question is how our gains have been made. Early in our years as a political movement there was a debate about direct activism versus the political process. I believe the most important point to take away from a survey of our history is that it has been through the political process, and it is through the political process that we should do this in the future.
If it were the case that a majority of Americans really did hate us, the political process would not work very well. But I believe that we have done something very important over the past 35 years, essentially by millions of us deciding to be honest about who we are. I refer of course to the process of coming out.
As we have been honest about who we are, and our friends and relatives have learned that among the people they were brought up to despise are their friends, relatives, teachers, students, clients, bosses, teammates, doctors, patients, auto mechanics, police officers, entertainers, etc., they have realized that it was the prejudice that was flawed, and not the victims. What the process of our coming out has done is to give the average American permission to act on his or her own lack of homophobia. We have helped Americans understand that they weren’t really homophobic; they just thought they were supposed to be.
Given that, the political strategy we should follow is that of people who are confident that ultimately the majority is on our side, even if that does not always manifest itself on a specific issue. This means much less emphasis on direct action, sit-ins, noisy demonstrations, etc., as these often alienate more than they persuade. Again, if we were a minority that was widely hated, we might have no choice but to try these sorts of tactics, although even then I would have been discouraged about their chances for success.
There are those who argue that relying on the political process somehow implies a lack of militancy on behalf of our rights. They are wrong. The most successfully militant organizations in America – think of the National Rifle Association – do not hold demonstrations or form picket lines. Instead they focus intensely on getting their people to vote. We have made some strides here, but we still do less than we should in mobilizing politically. The time has come for all of us to make sure that we vote militantly – at every possible opportunity, at every primary and election, for those who support our rights and against those who do not. In addition, I think we have earned the right to go to our friends and relatives and point out to them that it is inconsistent to tell us they love us and then support people who run for political office who would deny us basic rights and make our lives less than they should be.
There is one obstacle to our doing this effectively – the cultural reluctance to be deemed a partisan. Independence is a good quality in most cases and in the right kind of political system, political independence – as between the parties – would be very desirable. But where LGBT rights are concerned, the overwhelming fact in American politics is that while the two parties started virtually evenly on this issue – both were terrible, and both then made moderate gains – today one of the most glaring differences between the parties is their attitude to GLBT rights.
In 1976, Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford were somewhat close on this issue. Since that time, the country has gotten much better on our issues, as I have noted. Politically, the Republicans have significantly lagged the country – the right-wing takeover of the Republican Party has resulted in their being significantly laggard on GLBT rights. The Democrats, on the other hand, while far from perfect, have been better than the country and in consequence, the difference between the two parties is a vast one.
On votes in Congress, the Democrats are overwhelmingly better than Republicans. And this is not simply a result of Democrats coming from areas that are more supportive. When Democratic Senators replace Republican Senators — obviously in the identical constituency — the pro-GLBT vote inevitably goes up a substantial amount. The reverse is true when a Republican replaces a Democrat.
Similarly, if you look at those Congressional districts that have changed hands, in virtually every case the Democratic incumbent has had a better record than the Republican. Indeed, in the current Congressional election season, I do not know of a single race for the House or the Senate at the national level where the Republican is better than the Democrat. There are some where both are terrible, and a handful – not more than three or four – where the Republican is arguably as good as his or her Democratic opponent. But in the great majority of cases, the Democrat is far better. This does not mean blind allegiance to the Democrats.
I agree that if you focus on politics from the standpoint of advancing GLBT rights, it is a betrayal of that commitment to start from a partisan premise. But if an objective analysis of what is at issue leads you to a partisan conclusion, it is also a betrayal to shrink from that conclusion. The appropriate response is to engage constantly in the dual role of pushing Democrats to be even better than they are, knowing that being better than the Republicans with their terrible record is not enough; and also persuading GLBT voters to pick that candidate who is better on our issues, which in 98 percent of the cases will be the Democrat. When there is an exception then people should act accordingly, but the fear of appearing partisan should not deter people from supporting the party that has been so much better on our issues.
Thirty-seven years after Stonewall, more legally sanctioned prejudice in America exists than there should be, but if we continue to progress we will see its effective end. It won’t happen automatically. We need to build on our strengths and demand that we be treated fully equally before the law by our fellow citizens.In summary, we outnumber our opposition every day except sometimes on Election Day. We have the power to change that, and if we do, even more profound change will be had.
Congressman Barney Frank represents the Fourth District in Massachusetts. He has served since 1981.
By Rep. Barney Frank
While serving as an ambulance driver during the Spanish Civil War, George Orwell was shot in the neck. When people congratulated him on his good luck at having recovered, he replied that he believed people who had never been shot in the neck in the first place were even luckier than he.
It is appropriate to keep this in mind when we discuss the history of the fight of sexual minorities against the prejudice that has blighted so many lives. But no one should expect us to be grateful for this fact: People who were never subjected to a vicious prejudice in the first place are the ones who should be grateful, not those of us who have fought hard to diminish prejudice but still encounter it.
In mentioning this progress, I refer to the political history of GLBT people. Obviously, there are personal and cultural aspects to our lives and the history of those extend much further back. But few political movements have a more clear starting point than our fight against prejudice.Beginning in January 1968, I served as the executive assistant to the mayor of Boston, with a particular responsibility for dealing with issues that were important to liberals. I worked hard on the rights of women, on racial equality, on the rights of workers. One area where I did no work was in the fight against homophobia, not because I was unsympathetic or uninterested, but simply because there was no such effort being waged.
The Stonewall resistance in 1969 clearly triggered a movement in which GLBT people finally asked, “What about us?” Having left Boston for Washington, D.C., for a year from 1971-72, I returned, as a candidate for State Representative, to find a new but vigorous political movement of gay men and lesbians that had not existed when I left.
While I did not come out publicly until May of 1987, I did join the fight in 1972 and in December of that year, having been elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives, I filed for the first time in Massachusetts history gay-rights bills as a legislator who strongly supported them.
I realize many GLBT activists today feel beleaguered by the flood of anti-marriage amendments that have sadly passed in a number of states. But this is the paradox of being involved in a movement committed to social change: By definition, at any given moment we will be engaged in an uphill fight. It is our job to change deeply held feelings. But it is one thing to change opinion in general; it is another to persuade members of a majority who do not feel the pain of the victims of discrimination that longstanding social practices should be changed in accordance with that sentiment.
In the early 1960s – before Stonewall – not one member of Congress objected when an immigration bill generally supported by liberals went through that toughened the anti-LGBT prohibition. And nowhere in America were there any laws or court rulings that protected any of us against discrimination of any sort.
Today, not only has that immigration provision been completely repealed, but GLBT people from foreign countries who can show that they were being persecuted in their homelands because of their sexual orientation or gender identification have received asylum in the U.S., because under Bill Clinton the Justice Department officially recognized such persecution as a serious violation of human rights. While we still lack a national law protecting us against job discrimination, a large number of states has such legal protections.
Most importantly, there’s been a fundamental change in attitude. In 1973, when the Massachusetts House first debated gay-rights legislation, our opponents were fairly explicit in explaining their opposition: “I’m not gonna hire any fag or any lesbian to work for me,” members would say. When we first began the fight, our opponents made no effort to hide their homophobia.
The key question is how our gains have been made. Early in our years as a political movement there was a debate about direct activism versus the political process. I believe the most important point to take away from a survey of our history is that it has been through the political process, and it is through the political process that we should do this in the future.
If it were the case that a majority of Americans really did hate us, the political process would not work very well. But I believe that we have done something very important over the past 35 years, essentially by millions of us deciding to be honest about who we are. I refer of course to the process of coming out.
As we have been honest about who we are, and our friends and relatives have learned that among the people they were brought up to despise are their friends, relatives, teachers, students, clients, bosses, teammates, doctors, patients, auto mechanics, police officers, entertainers, etc., they have realized that it was the prejudice that was flawed, and not the victims. What the process of our coming out has done is to give the average American permission to act on his or her own lack of homophobia. We have helped Americans understand that they weren’t really homophobic; they just thought they were supposed to be.
Given that, the political strategy we should follow is that of people who are confident that ultimately the majority is on our side, even if that does not always manifest itself on a specific issue. This means much less emphasis on direct action, sit-ins, noisy demonstrations, etc., as these often alienate more than they persuade. Again, if we were a minority that was widely hated, we might have no choice but to try these sorts of tactics, although even then I would have been discouraged about their chances for success.
There are those who argue that relying on the political process somehow implies a lack of militancy on behalf of our rights. They are wrong. The most successfully militant organizations in America – think of the National Rifle Association – do not hold demonstrations or form picket lines. Instead they focus intensely on getting their people to vote. We have made some strides here, but we still do less than we should in mobilizing politically. The time has come for all of us to make sure that we vote militantly – at every possible opportunity, at every primary and election, for those who support our rights and against those who do not. In addition, I think we have earned the right to go to our friends and relatives and point out to them that it is inconsistent to tell us they love us and then support people who run for political office who would deny us basic rights and make our lives less than they should be.
There is one obstacle to our doing this effectively – the cultural reluctance to be deemed a partisan. Independence is a good quality in most cases and in the right kind of political system, political independence – as between the parties – would be very desirable. But where LGBT rights are concerned, the overwhelming fact in American politics is that while the two parties started virtually evenly on this issue – both were terrible, and both then made moderate gains – today one of the most glaring differences between the parties is their attitude to GLBT rights.
In 1976, Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford were somewhat close on this issue. Since that time, the country has gotten much better on our issues, as I have noted. Politically, the Republicans have significantly lagged the country – the right-wing takeover of the Republican Party has resulted in their being significantly laggard on GLBT rights. The Democrats, on the other hand, while far from perfect, have been better than the country and in consequence, the difference between the two parties is a vast one.
On votes in Congress, the Democrats are overwhelmingly better than Republicans. And this is not simply a result of Democrats coming from areas that are more supportive. When Democratic Senators replace Republican Senators — obviously in the identical constituency — the pro-GLBT vote inevitably goes up a substantial amount. The reverse is true when a Republican replaces a Democrat.
Similarly, if you look at those Congressional districts that have changed hands, in virtually every case the Democratic incumbent has had a better record than the Republican. Indeed, in the current Congressional election season, I do not know of a single race for the House or the Senate at the national level where the Republican is better than the Democrat. There are some where both are terrible, and a handful – not more than three or four – where the Republican is arguably as good as his or her Democratic opponent. But in the great majority of cases, the Democrat is far better. This does not mean blind allegiance to the Democrats.
I agree that if you focus on politics from the standpoint of advancing GLBT rights, it is a betrayal of that commitment to start from a partisan premise. But if an objective analysis of what is at issue leads you to a partisan conclusion, it is also a betrayal to shrink from that conclusion. The appropriate response is to engage constantly in the dual role of pushing Democrats to be even better than they are, knowing that being better than the Republicans with their terrible record is not enough; and also persuading GLBT voters to pick that candidate who is better on our issues, which in 98 percent of the cases will be the Democrat. When there is an exception then people should act accordingly, but the fear of appearing partisan should not deter people from supporting the party that has been so much better on our issues.
Thirty-seven years after Stonewall, more legally sanctioned prejudice in America exists than there should be, but if we continue to progress we will see its effective end. It won’t happen automatically. We need to build on our strengths and demand that we be treated fully equally before the law by our fellow citizens.In summary, we outnumber our opposition every day except sometimes on Election Day. We have the power to change that, and if we do, even more profound change will be had.
Congressman Barney Frank represents the Fourth District in Massachusetts. He has served since 1981.
Dr. Frank Kameny: Gay is Good, and History Comes Full Circle
Dr. Frank Kameny: Gay is Good, and History Comes Full Circle
At a ceremony today, Friday, October 6, 2006, in the Thomas Jefferson Building of the U.S. Library of Congress, Dr. Frank Kameny, a pioneer of gay rights who coined the phrase "Gay is good," holds an original sign from early days of what was known as the "homophile" movement.
Dr. Kameny today turned over signs and a collection of personal papers to the library, including a 1958 letter received from U.S. Civil Service Commission Chairman John W. Macy, Jr., which - in a paragraph eerily similar to the basic rules of today's military "Don't ask don't tell" policy - spelled out their conclusion that if an "applicant were to publicly proclaim that he engages in homosexual conduct," he would be as unsuitable for Federal employment as an adulterer or prostitute. Indeed, the "self-revelation... is itself public conduct" the commission considered unsuitable.
Dr. Kameny, now 81, lost his job in 1957 as an astronomer with the U.S. Army Map Service because of his public proclamations, and he began an eighteen-year fight that would lead to opening the doors of federal employment to people regardless of sexual orientation. At a time when most "homosexual" people and groups wanted to remain quiet, he said today, he instead felt that society needed to change and accept gays, that gays were the experts on being gay, and that it was time that gays spoke up for themselves and demanded full citizenship.
Dr. Kameny outside the Thomas Jefferson Building following the presentation ceremony.
At a ceremony today, Friday, October 6, 2006, in the Thomas Jefferson Building of the U.S. Library of Congress, Dr. Frank Kameny, a pioneer of gay rights who coined the phrase "Gay is good," holds an original sign from early days of what was known as the "homophile" movement.
Dr. Kameny today turned over signs and a collection of personal papers to the library, including a 1958 letter received from U.S. Civil Service Commission Chairman John W. Macy, Jr., which - in a paragraph eerily similar to the basic rules of today's military "Don't ask don't tell" policy - spelled out their conclusion that if an "applicant were to publicly proclaim that he engages in homosexual conduct," he would be as unsuitable for Federal employment as an adulterer or prostitute. Indeed, the "self-revelation... is itself public conduct" the commission considered unsuitable.
Dr. Kameny, now 81, lost his job in 1957 as an astronomer with the U.S. Army Map Service because of his public proclamations, and he began an eighteen-year fight that would lead to opening the doors of federal employment to people regardless of sexual orientation. At a time when most "homosexual" people and groups wanted to remain quiet, he said today, he instead felt that society needed to change and accept gays, that gays were the experts on being gay, and that it was time that gays spoke up for themselves and demanded full citizenship.
Dr. Kameny outside the Thomas Jefferson Building following the presentation ceremony.
CLQA, UPDATE 2006 NCOD CONWAY
(Once again, I'm mailing from my personal address so the pictures attach properly). The National Coming Out Day Parade was wonderful. (Pictures are below. Also see http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2005674&id=57300455&ref=mf ) Thanks to all who marched and stuck around for the festivities at the Pink House. I am putting together a Thank You card for John & Robert, and I will be passing it around the UCA and Hendrix Campuses soon. (Also, thanks to all who showed up to clean the Pink House yard. We made $60!)The Queer Bash was absolutely amazing. Everything was perfect! It was huge... probably the biggest Queer Bash AND the biggest party Conway has seen in a while. We made $150 profit, and we will use this money to buy the slingshot planners for our next fundraiser.Thanks to all who supported us by giving donations, buying kisses, etc. The CLQA is extremely happy that the Queer Bash is continually serving as a safe space for Queers and their allies to hang out together.On to some not-so-wonderful business. Because of the party's magnitude, we broke a window and a stove. The Locust gentlemen were kind enough to offer their home for the party, so we must take care of their things! The CLQA is asking for donations to fix their window and stove. If you can give $2, $5, $10 or so that would be awesome. We want to continue to have events at houses like the Locust house, so we must be responsible and pay for what was damaged. Jacob Fluharty is taking donations at the Hendrix Campus, and I (Amanda Harris) am taking them at the UCA Campus. Anything will help! PLEASE DONATE!Don't forget the events next week, including Friday Visibility for all who will be in town.Wednesday, Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. PRISM will have a booth, games,and a giant closet in the student center courtyard at UCA. Stop by for free infoand buttons.Friday, Oct. 13 4:30 – 5:30 we will have our first FRIDAY VISIBILITY!Woo hoo! Come stand on the corner of Harkrider and Oak to give positivemessages to our community about its LGBTQs! If you cannot make this onebecause of Fall break, return on Friday, Oct. 27.The
critically acclaimed, award-winning Stop Kiss will be presented Oct.26, 27, Nov. 1, 2, and 3 at 7:30 p.m. on Centre Stage of the Snow FineArts Center. Playwright Diana Son has written a funny, tender, yet tragicstory of two women’s unexpected love for each other. The awkwardfriendship takes on an emotional spin, but then suddenly swerves inanother direction as the play explores society’s views on intolerance andacceptance. Suggested for mature audiences only, tickets are $8 for thegeneral public and free with a current UCA I.D.
critically acclaimed, award-winning Stop Kiss will be presented Oct.26, 27, Nov. 1, 2, and 3 at 7:30 p.m. on Centre Stage of the Snow FineArts Center. Playwright Diana Son has written a funny, tender, yet tragicstory of two women’s unexpected love for each other. The awkwardfriendship takes on an emotional spin, but then suddenly swerves inanother direction as the play explores society’s views on intolerance andacceptance. Suggested for mature audiences only, tickets are $8 for thegeneral public and free with a current UCA I.D.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
TheCabin.net ·· Protest draws arrests 09/28/06
By JOE LAMBLOG CABIN STAFF WRITER
A sit-in protest at the U.S. Armed Forces Recruiting Center on Museum Road in Conway led to eight arrests Wednesday.
The protest was organized by Amanda Harris, currently a student at the University of Central Arkansas. She said the protesters, mostly students from HendrixCollege and UCA, were protesting the armed forces' "Don't ask, Don't tell" recruitment policy.
According to a flyer passed out at the protest, the policy is "government sanctioned discrimination against lesbian, gay and bisexual citizens."
"It's forcing someone to lie about themselves just so that they can serve," Harris said.
According to Esther Mead of Conway, the plan was for Mead and several other protesters to attempt to enlist in various branches of the armed forces with the understanding that they would not be admitted when they disclosed they were gay or lesbian. She also said protesters would then hold a sit-in inside the recruitment office "until we either get in or get arrested."
However, the armed forces recruiting offices were closed Wednesday morning. The protesters said the offices were closed after finding out about the pending demonstration.
"They lost three possible new recruits because of their actions today," Mead said.
By around noon, the Navy Recruiting Station opened, and Mead attempted to enlist. Her enlistment was denied and about 15 protesters held a sit-in inside the station. Members of the Conway Police Department, who had been monitoring the protest at various points throughout the day, were called to arrest protesters who refused to voluntarily leave the station.
"When we see an obvious problem inside the office we have to do something about it," said Randall Franklin, a supervisor at the naval recruiting station.
Lt. Bob Berry of the Conway Police Department told the protesters the time spent arresting and processing them would "take us away from violent acts across town."
"You all have done so good. I hate for you all to mess it up now," Maj. Kerry Pool of the Conway Police Department added.
"I felt sorry that we were inconveniencing them," Harris said, "but at the same time, we were there for a purpose and I felt they were pressuring us not to speak for ourselves. They were already there; they were prepared to do it."
Several protesters agreed to leave the office and receive warnings for criminal trespassing, but eight had to be handcuffed and arrested. The eight were charged with criminal trespassing and taken to the Faulkner County Detention Center.
"Despite outstanding qualifications and ambition to serve in the United States Navy, I am not allowed to," Mead said as she was led out of the recruitment station in handcuffs. "This is the length I am willing to go to."
Harris said she hoped Wednesday's protest will spark "a conversation with America."
"I do feel like a lot of people are going to see the great lengths that people are willing to go to stand up for their beliefs," she said. "Hopefully this will cause more people to further speak out and say 'let's lift the ban.'"
Mayor Tab Townsell said the city government's role in Wednesday's protest was "to protect the rights of private property owners and the rights of public protesters."
"It's unfortunate," Townsell, who was not at the rally, said in an e-mail to the Log Cabin Democrat on Wednesday, "that today's protest ended in arrests rather than meaningful conversation. However, it is important to recognize the difference between civil disobedience and civil unrest."
"I'm glad they handled it the way they did," Harris said after the arrests. "The police officers were very nice and the Naval officers were very nice. It was a very peaceful protest. We did have meaningful conversation with the Naval recruiters there. They said they were pleased with the fact that we had the rights that we did because those rights were fought for and won by the U.S. armed forces. They respected that we had those rights. "
The eight were released on bond Wednesday night, according to Harris.
http://www.thecabin.net/stories/092806/loc_0928060007.shtml
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A sit-in protest at the U.S. Armed Forces Recruiting Center on Museum Road in Conway led to eight arrests Wednesday.
The protest was organized by Amanda Harris, currently a student at the University of Central Arkansas. She said the protesters, mostly students from HendrixCollege and UCA, were protesting the armed forces' "Don't ask, Don't tell" recruitment policy.
According to a flyer passed out at the protest, the policy is "government sanctioned discrimination against lesbian, gay and bisexual citizens."
"It's forcing someone to lie about themselves just so that they can serve," Harris said.
According to Esther Mead of Conway, the plan was for Mead and several other protesters to attempt to enlist in various branches of the armed forces with the understanding that they would not be admitted when they disclosed they were gay or lesbian. She also said protesters would then hold a sit-in inside the recruitment office "until we either get in or get arrested."
However, the armed forces recruiting offices were closed Wednesday morning. The protesters said the offices were closed after finding out about the pending demonstration.
"They lost three possible new recruits because of their actions today," Mead said.
By around noon, the Navy Recruiting Station opened, and Mead attempted to enlist. Her enlistment was denied and about 15 protesters held a sit-in inside the station. Members of the Conway Police Department, who had been monitoring the protest at various points throughout the day, were called to arrest protesters who refused to voluntarily leave the station.
"When we see an obvious problem inside the office we have to do something about it," said Randall Franklin, a supervisor at the naval recruiting station.
Lt. Bob Berry of the Conway Police Department told the protesters the time spent arresting and processing them would "take us away from violent acts across town."
"You all have done so good. I hate for you all to mess it up now," Maj. Kerry Pool of the Conway Police Department added.
"I felt sorry that we were inconveniencing them," Harris said, "but at the same time, we were there for a purpose and I felt they were pressuring us not to speak for ourselves. They were already there; they were prepared to do it."
Several protesters agreed to leave the office and receive warnings for criminal trespassing, but eight had to be handcuffed and arrested. The eight were charged with criminal trespassing and taken to the Faulkner County Detention Center.
"Despite outstanding qualifications and ambition to serve in the United States Navy, I am not allowed to," Mead said as she was led out of the recruitment station in handcuffs. "This is the length I am willing to go to."
Harris said she hoped Wednesday's protest will spark "a conversation with America."
"I do feel like a lot of people are going to see the great lengths that people are willing to go to stand up for their beliefs," she said. "Hopefully this will cause more people to further speak out and say 'let's lift the ban.'"
Mayor Tab Townsell said the city government's role in Wednesday's protest was "to protect the rights of private property owners and the rights of public protesters."
"It's unfortunate," Townsell, who was not at the rally, said in an e-mail to the Log Cabin Democrat on Wednesday, "that today's protest ended in arrests rather than meaningful conversation. However, it is important to recognize the difference between civil disobedience and civil unrest."
"I'm glad they handled it the way they did," Harris said after the arrests. "The police officers were very nice and the Naval officers were very nice. It was a very peaceful protest. We did have meaningful conversation with the Naval recruiters there. They said they were pleased with the fact that we had the rights that we did because those rights were fought for and won by the U.S. armed forces. They respected that we had those rights. "
The eight were released on bond Wednesday night, according to Harris.
http://www.thecabin.net/stories/092806/loc_0928060007.shtml
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Friday, October 06, 2006
Arkansas candidates exchange barbs over gay foster parent ban
Last Updated: Oct 6th, 2006 - 15:08:42
Arkansas candidates exchange barbs over gay foster parent banBy Andrew DeMillo - Associated PressAug 10, 2006, 19:39
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Republican lieutenant governor nominee questions whether Democratic opponent agrees with the State Supreme Court’s reversal of the banLITTLE ROCK — R
epublican lieutenant governor nominee Jim Holt on Tuesday questioned whether his Democratic opponent agreed with the state Supreme Court’s reversal of Arkansas’ ban on gay foster parents.Democratic nominee Bill Halter, a former Clinton administration official, replied on Tuesday that he supports reimposing the ban and his campaign spokesman accused Holt of using the ruling to advance his political career.The lieutenant governor hopefuls traded criticism over the court’s June 29 ruling that said the state cannot ban homosexuals from becoming foster parents. Holt targeted comments Halter made days after the ruling saying he didn’t believe it should be used as a political issue.“This controversy is very much a political issue,’’ Holt said. “This issue will determine what happens to numerous children who have in most cases already experienced deep pain ... Halter’s position will reflect his philosophy on other important issues related to this topic.’’Two years ago, Holt was able to win a surprising 44 percent of the vote in his run against Democratic U.S. Blanche Lincoln. Holt tied his candidacy to a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage that passed overwhelmingly that year.Gov. Mike Huckabee, a Republican, has said he hopes lawmakers will reimpose the ban on gay foster parents but said he doesn’t expect to call a special session on the issue. Huckabee is term limited and leaves office in January.Democratic gubernatorial nominee Mike Beebe and Republican nominee Asa Hutchinson have both said they oppose allowing gays to become foster parents.Holt, a state senator from Springdale, said Halter has been quiet on whether the state should reimpose the ban.Halter on Tuesday said he had talked with legislators who indicated they would pass such a ban during the regular legislative session next year.“I would support this type of legislation if, after thorough research and deliberation, it is found to be constitutional and in the best interests of Arkansas’ foster children,’’ Halter said.Halter last month said he was unsure if the state should reimpose the ban and said he wanted to study the ruling further.“I’d like to not have people try to use this for any sort of political gain and let’s get some more data and get the studies that we need,’’ Halter said. “Let’s make sure that we have people work well together in the future to come up with a response legislatively.’’Halter’s campaign spokesman Bud Jackson accused Holt of doing little during his time in the Senate to help the state’s foster children. Jackson described Holt’s legislative record as “lackluster’’ and focused on several of his votes, including his opposition to increasing the minimum wage.“Jim Holt has demonstrated that he is willing to use Arkansas’ most vulnerable children as a political football to advance his own political career,’’ Jackson said.Holt defended his work as a lawmaker and said he wasn’t satisfied with Halter’s stance on the foster parents ruling. “‘If’ is a big word and he has placed so many conditions on his decision that everyone in Arkansas can see he is just pandering,’’ Holt said. “There is not one bit of conviction in his answer.’’
Arkansas candidates exchange barbs over gay foster parent banBy Andrew DeMillo - Associated PressAug 10, 2006, 19:39
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Republican lieutenant governor nominee questions whether Democratic opponent agrees with the State Supreme Court’s reversal of the banLITTLE ROCK — R
epublican lieutenant governor nominee Jim Holt on Tuesday questioned whether his Democratic opponent agreed with the state Supreme Court’s reversal of Arkansas’ ban on gay foster parents.Democratic nominee Bill Halter, a former Clinton administration official, replied on Tuesday that he supports reimposing the ban and his campaign spokesman accused Holt of using the ruling to advance his political career.The lieutenant governor hopefuls traded criticism over the court’s June 29 ruling that said the state cannot ban homosexuals from becoming foster parents. Holt targeted comments Halter made days after the ruling saying he didn’t believe it should be used as a political issue.“This controversy is very much a political issue,’’ Holt said. “This issue will determine what happens to numerous children who have in most cases already experienced deep pain ... Halter’s position will reflect his philosophy on other important issues related to this topic.’’Two years ago, Holt was able to win a surprising 44 percent of the vote in his run against Democratic U.S. Blanche Lincoln. Holt tied his candidacy to a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage that passed overwhelmingly that year.Gov. Mike Huckabee, a Republican, has said he hopes lawmakers will reimpose the ban on gay foster parents but said he doesn’t expect to call a special session on the issue. Huckabee is term limited and leaves office in January.Democratic gubernatorial nominee Mike Beebe and Republican nominee Asa Hutchinson have both said they oppose allowing gays to become foster parents.Holt, a state senator from Springdale, said Halter has been quiet on whether the state should reimpose the ban.Halter on Tuesday said he had talked with legislators who indicated they would pass such a ban during the regular legislative session next year.“I would support this type of legislation if, after thorough research and deliberation, it is found to be constitutional and in the best interests of Arkansas’ foster children,’’ Halter said.Halter last month said he was unsure if the state should reimpose the ban and said he wanted to study the ruling further.“I’d like to not have people try to use this for any sort of political gain and let’s get some more data and get the studies that we need,’’ Halter said. “Let’s make sure that we have people work well together in the future to come up with a response legislatively.’’Halter’s campaign spokesman Bud Jackson accused Holt of doing little during his time in the Senate to help the state’s foster children. Jackson described Holt’s legislative record as “lackluster’’ and focused on several of his votes, including his opposition to increasing the minimum wage.“Jim Holt has demonstrated that he is willing to use Arkansas’ most vulnerable children as a political football to advance his own political career,’’ Jackson said.Holt defended his work as a lawmaker and said he wasn’t satisfied with Halter’s stance on the foster parents ruling. “‘If’ is a big word and he has placed so many conditions on his decision that everyone in Arkansas can see he is just pandering,’’ Holt said. “There is not one bit of conviction in his answer.’’
Leading LGBT Newspapers Unite to Promote US Gay History Month
Leading LGBT Newspapers Unite to Promote US Gay History Monthcelebrants of October's Gay History Month will have icing to add to their cake this year as a collection of leading GLBT newspapers will, for the first time ever, collectively recognize national and local pioneers from the GLBT community.Sixteen major GLBT newspapers from across the country will promote Gay History Month in their publications with exclusive articles from some of the nation's most well-known activists, sports figures, authors and entertainers.Among those slated to appear are Congressman Barney Frank, tennis champion Martina Navratilova, and Oscar Award winning writer Bruce Vilanch.In addition to the nationally known and distinguished pioneers, each publication will also celebrate a roster of their local GLBT leaders.“We want to celebrate our homegrown gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender heroes along with those who are nationally known,” said Dallas Voice publisher Robert Moore. “And we want to help our National Gay History Month gain the momentum it deserves.”Mark Segal, publisher of the Philadelphia Gay News and the founder and coordinator of the Gay History Project added: “Local gay newspapers are the most complete, comprehensive record of LGBT history; no individual, organization or traditional medium has the knowledge and experience which make up our almost 40 years of coverage.”Among the publications taking part in the celebration are: Philadelphia Gay News, San Francisco's Bay Area Reporter, New York City's Gay City News, Dallas Voice, Chicago's Windy City Times, Detroit Pride Source, Boston's Bay Windows, LA's Frontiers, Seattle Gay News, Echo Magazine of Phoenix AZ, Washington DC's Metro Weekly, Out Front Denver Colorado, Minneapolis' Lavender Magazine, San Diego Gay and Lesbian Times, Inside Out in Nashville, and Cleveland's Chronicle.The participating publications have a combined circulation of over one half million - making the project the largest GLBT media promotion in the history of the gay press. This first-time event is expected to become a yearly tradition.=====7.http://www.365gay.com/Newscon06/10/100206fiji.htm
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