OUT Evolution Complete! - Baltimore Outloud
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OUT
Evolution Complete! Obama switches on gay marriage
May 18, 2012 | Volume X Issue 1
Richard Larison
BY STEVE CHARING
May 9, 2012 became an historic day for
Chase Brexton
HTXDOULJKWVLQ$PHULFD)RUWKHÀUVWWLPHD
U.S. President has unequivocally and pub-
Finds New Leader
lically given his support for the legalization
of same-sex marriage. While this statement After an extensive and relentless
may be symbolic and does not carry the full search for the appropriate candi-
IRUFH RI )HGHUDO ODZ LWV VLJQLÀFDQFH FDQQRW date, Chase Brexton Health Ser-
be overstated. vices board of directors announced
In an interview with Robin Roberts of that Richard Larison will begin as
ABC News, President Obama acknowledged chief executive officer on July 15,
he had believed civil unions would have been 2012.
VXIÀFLHQWEXWQRZKHGHFLGHGWRWDNHLWWRD A senior health care executive
new level. with more than 27 years experi-
“I have to tell you that over the course ence, Larison brings with him a
of several years as I have talked to friends portfolio of successful leadership
and family and neighbors when I think about in both domestic and international
members of my own staff who are in incred- health care. He has lead startups
ibly committed monogamous relationships, and turned around underperforming
same-sex relationships, who are raising kids organizations, effectively meeting
together, when I think about those soldiers financial and patient quality goals
or airmen or marines or sailors who are out and objectives.
WKHUHÀJKWLQJRQP\EHKDOIDQG\HWIHHOFRQ- Larison comes to Chase Brex-
—continued on page 2 ton from Johns Hopkins Medicine
International where he is currently
CEO for Hospital Punta Pacifica in
Where San Francisco Meets Mexico Panama City, Panama. His experi-
ence as CEO and executive leader-
ship is global – reaching to Dubai,
BY RODNEY BURGER men owned it from back in Michigan. He United Arab Emirates, where he led
Many years ago, I took my first trip to Mexi- gathered a collection of friends from all the American Hospital; Bangladesh
co. I went to the popular resort of Cancun. I over. There were seven of us. Sir Steve and India, at Apollo Hospitals; and
was very excited to discover that there was and I were delighted to be included. The Ft. Worth, Texas, at the MD Ander-
a gay bar in town. I couldn’t wait to find my- house was a four-story structure with a son Cancer Network, among others.
self in a room full of hot, sweaty Latin guys! pool and views that stretched all the way “After conducting an extensive
Imagine my disappointment when the bar to the ocean. It even came with a cook and search reviewing many excellent
contained nothing but American tourist. I a maid. Although the villa was up a hill, it candidates, the search committee
wrote it off as part of the “macho” culture. I was still within walking distance to the bars has found the perfect leader for
was not okay to be gay in Mexico. and the beach. (That climb at the end of Chase Brexton,” notes Guy Van
On the week of May 2-9, 2012, I ven- the night could be murder- but it was the Tiggelen, president of the Chase
tured south of the boarder once again. This perfect way to work off all of those beers!) Brexton board of directors. “We are
time I headed to the west coast of Mexico A great way to get to know people and excited about our future and thrilled
to the beautiful resort town of Puerto Val- find many of the fun places in PV is to take to have Mr. Larison at the helm
larta. Guess what? You can be gay in Mex- the Gay Vallarta Bar-Hopping Tour. The as we believe his experience and
ico! In fact in Puerto Vallarta you can be tour is held on Friday and Saturday eve- commitment match the exceptional
really, really gay! nings and begins at 7:45 p.m. in the lobby qualities of Chase Brexton Health
My dear friend Mr. Michigan Leather of the Hotel Mercurio. This is a quaint gay Services.”
2004 Bob Rose had rented a stunning hotel with a nice bar and pool in the atrium. Chase Brexton is expected to
villa in the hills of Puerto Vallarta. Three —continued on page 37 move its Mt. Vernon headquarters
—continued on page 5
S P E C I A L T R A V E L S E C T I O N m S T A R T S P A G E 17
NEWS // NATIONAL
EVOLUTION COMPLETE!
posed by David Gregory. “The president riage in Maryland. “In Maryland, we agree.”
– continued from front page
sets the policy. I am absolutely comfortable Chad Griffin, the incoming president of
with the fact that men marrying men, women the Human Rights Campaign released the Co-Publishers
strained, even now that ‘don’t ask don’t tell’ marrying women, and heterosexual men and following statement: “If you are one of those Jim Becker • Jim Williams
publisher@baltimoreoutloud.com
is gone, because they are not able to commit women marrying another are entitled to the who care about this issue, you will not forget
themselves in a marriage, at a certain point same exact rights, all the civil rights, all the where you were when you saw the president Executive Editor
Jim Becker
I’ve just concluded that for me personally it is civil liberties. And quite frankly, I don’t see deliver those remarks. Regardless of how old becker@baltimoreoutloud.com
important for me to go ahead and affirm that I much of a distinction – beyond that.” you are, it’s the first time you have ever seen Managing Editor
think same sex couples should be able to get For his part, the president indicated that a president of the United States look into a Dana LaRocca
married,” the president said. his announcement was going to take place in camera and say that a gay person should be editor@baltimoreoutloud.com
Most observers speculated that Vice the near future. “I had already made a deci- treated equally under the law. The message Production Director
President Joe Biden’s comments on Meet sion that we were going to take this position that that sends, to a young gay or transgen- Bill Andriette
the Press three days earlier pushed the before the election and before the conven- dered person struggling to come out, is life Sales Director
Mary Taylor
president in making this move now. On that tion,” Mr. Obama said on ABC the next day. changing.” taylor@baltimoreoutloud.com
broadcast, Mr. Biden said that he was per- “He probably got out a little bit over his skis, Carrie Evans, the executive director for Leather Columnist
fectly “comfortable” with gay people being but out of a generosity of spirit.… Would I Equality Maryland said, “The President came Rodney Burger
married. have preferred to have done this in my own out in support of the freedom to marry for Contributing Writers
“I am vice president of the United States way, on my own terms without there being a same-sex couples. Although this statement Shawn Bradley • Cathy Brennan • Terrence Brower •
of America,” Biden replied to a question lot of notice to everybody, sure.” does not undo the results of [the] vote in Joshua Buchbinder • Steve Charing • Jeffrey Clagett •
Chuck Duncan • Michael Farley • Gerry Fisher • Eva Hersh MD •
This occurred a day after voters in North North Carolina, it does provide us with hope Sam Kunz • Jessica Lemmo • Jay Loane • Meredith Moise • Vann
Carolina – a battleground state in the upcom- – the hope that people’s hearts and minds Mills • Corey Reidy • Gregg Shapiro •
ing presidential election – resoundingly voted can evolve on this issue. Though this evolu-
Marriage by a 22-point margin to forever ban marriage
for same-sex couples and as well as civil
tion may not always be on the timetable we
would devise, we must embrace this historic
Graphics
Joe Velasquez • Bob Wellington
Opponents unions.
As portions of the broadcast were re-
declaration by President Obama.
In 1996, Obama indicated support in a
Cartoonist
Bruce Garrett (www.brucegarrett.com)
Halfway There
Photographers
leased by ABC, within minutes leaders of questionnaire, then reversed course in his Bruce Garrett • Jay W Photos • Justin Nixon
LGBT organizations and elected officials 2004 Senate race, and in 2008, he argued Web Editor
BY STEVE CHARING commended the president for this statement for civil unions. In February 2011, President Anja Saine
According to the Maryland Marriage Al- that many viewed as courageous, overdue Obama instructed the Justice Department to webmaster@baltimoreoutloud.com
Managed Web Services
liance, the petition drive to overturn the and in some quarters, even risky. no longer defend the constitutionality of the The Fusio Group
Civil Marriage Protection Act, signed “Today, President Obama affirmed that for Defense of Marriage Act, or DOMA, the legal 866-322-7498, www.thefusiogroup.com
into law on March 1 by Governor Martin a people of many different faiths – a people prohibition on federal recognition of same- National Advertising Rep
O’Malley, has reached the halfway mark, who are committed to the principle of religious sex marriages. Rivendell Media
908-232-2021
gathering over 30,000 signatures so far. freedom – the way forward is always to be To the frustration of marriage equality ac-
“The effort continues, but this a great found through greater respect for the equal tivists, Mr. Obama maintained that his posi- Founders
Jim Becker • Joe Berg • Mike Chase •
moment, and one that obviously we are rights and human dignity of all,” said Gover- tion on marriage equality is “evolving.” With Lee Mooney (1959-2007) • Jim Williams
building on,” said Kathy Dempsey, com- nor Martin O’Malley, who on March 1 signed the president’s historic public statement on
munications director for the Maryland into law a bill that legalizes same-sex mar- May 9, the evolution is complete. t Baltimore OUTloud
PO Box 4887 Baltimore, MD 21211
Catholic Conference. The Maryland Mar- 410-244-6780
riage Alliance is leading the referendum www.baltimoreoutloud.com
effort along with the Maryland Catholic
Conference. Additional Information
Baltimore OUTloud is published every other Friday by Pride
Under Maryland’s election law, Media, Ltd. in Baltimore, Maryland. Readers comments and
55,736 valid signatures are needed to unsolicited materials are welcomed and may be sent to: editor@
place the referendum on the ballot. The baltimoreoutloud.com. All materials appearing in this newspaper
are the property of Pride Media, Ltd. and may not be reproduced
law requires that one-third of that number without the written permission of the editor.
be filed with the State Board of Elections
by May 31, with the remaining number to
be submitted by June 30.
“We have been extremely happy with
the enthusiastic support of voters to stop
the redefinition of marriage in its tracks,”
said Maryland Marriage Alliance execu-
tive director Derek McCoy in a statement.
“In the 31 states to consider the marriage
issue, 31 times voters have rejected The opinions expressed in Baltimore OUTloud are solely those
same-sex marriage and reaffirmed the of the writers unless otherwise indicated and do not necessarily
reflect the views of Pride Media, Ltd., and the staff.
definition of marriage as a union between
one man and one woman,” “We are con-
© 2012 – All rights reserved
fident that Maryland voters will have this Chair of the Board of Trustees – Jim Becker
opportunity in November, and that they President – Jim Williams
will act on it.” t Secretary and Treasurer – Mike Chase
2t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM
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BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM t 3
NEWS // LOCAL
Movie night FundrAiser:
The Adventures of Leaders Respond to
Pricilla, Queen of the Desert Obama’s Announcement
Proceeds benefit Chesapeake Pride Festival
BY STEVE CHARING States supporting marriage equality is an
Saturday, June 2, 7 p.m. In the wake of President Obama’s revela- amazing and historic event. Regardless of
tion on May 9 that he supports marriage his timing or even his political motivations,
YMcA camp Letts (Boathouse) equality, a number of elected officials and this is a truly momentous occasion.”
4009 Camp Letts Road Edgewater, MD 21037 leaders of LGBT organizations weighed in. Carrie Evans, executive director,
Must be 18 years of age to attend, Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley: Equality Maryland: “The President came
21 to consume alcohol “Today, President Obama affirmed that for out in support of the freedom to marry for
a people of many different faiths – a peo- same-sex couples. Although this state-
Donation: $10 in advance, $12 at the door ple who are committed to the principle of ment does not undo the results of [the]
Tickets purchased online: religious freedom – the way forward is al- vote in North Carolina, it does provide us
chesapeakepridefestival.org ways to be found through greater respect with hope – the hope that people’s hearts
for the equal rights and human dignity of and minds can evolve on this issue. And
Free Popcorn & Soft Drinks • Cash Bar • Come Dressed as Your “Favorite Queen!” all,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. In though this evolution may not always be
Maryland, we agree.” on the timetable we would devise, we
Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawl- must embrace this historic declaration by
2nd AnnuAl ChesApeAke pride river Cruise ings-Blake: “This afternoon, President
Obama boldly voiced his support for
President Obama.”
Sharon Brackett, board chair, Gen-
Proceeds benefit Chesapeake Pride Festival marriage equality. I am grateful that the der Rights Maryland: “We are very
Saturday, June 23, 6-8 p.m. President added his voice to the millions
of Americans who are fighting to ensure
pleased to hear the President’s views on
same-sex marriage. The reality is this has
(Boarding @ 5:30 • Rain Date June 30) all people and families are treated equal- impact on any trans person who is mar-
Scenic sunset cruise ly under the law. This year, Governor
O’Malley signed legislation to expand the
ried today, or contemplating marriage in
the future.”
aboard the “Richard Lee” rights and responsibilities of marriage to
all Marylanders. President Obama’s state-
Lea Gilmore, founder, Maryland
Black Family Alliance: “This is a mo-
Departing from Discovery Village ment today reinforces our argument that mentous occasion that should not be di-
Marina, 4800 Atwell Road, marriage strengthens society and protects minished in any way. I am proud that the
Shady Side, MD children.” President of the United States has clearly
Donation: $40/person. Evan Wolfson, founder and presi- stated his beliefs that gays and lesbians
dent, Freedom to Marry: “Today, Presi- have the right to marriage. After years of
AdvAnce purchASe OnLY dent Obama added his voice to the grow- ‘evolving’, he has evolved on the side of
Purchase online at ing chorus of Americans who believe that fairness and justice. Thank you, Mr. Presi-
chesapeakepridefestival.org all loving and committed couples should dent.”
share equally in the freedom to marry. Mark Patro, president, PFLAG-Bal-
Heavy Hors D’oeuvres Served Like so many others who have made this timore County: “President Obama has
Cash Bar Available. journey – from Bill Clinton to Laura Bush, shown his courage in evolving as a public
most recently Vice President Biden, and a figure on same-sex marriage while main-
majority of the American people – Presi- taining respect and dignity for both his of-
dent Obama has come to know loving and fice and the LGBT community. We applaud
committed gay couples.” his leadership on this issue.”
Joe Solmonese, president, Human Dwayne Jenkins, International Fed-
Rights Campaign: “Our families deserve eration of Black Prides: “As he has done
nothing less than the equal respect and on so many other important and historical
recognition that comes through marriage. occasions during his political career and
President Obama’s time in office has his first term, President Obama has again
SAturdAY, AuguSt 4, 2012, 12-6 p.M. shown that our nation can move beyond
its shameful history of discrimination and
shown America the promise of possibility
and equality by coming out in support of
injustice.” marriage equality.”
Mayo
Mayo Beach
Beach park,
Park, 4150
4150 honeysuckle
Honeysuckle dr.,
Dr., edgewater,
Edgewater, Md
MD 21037 Chad Griffin, incoming president, Mary Ellen Russell, executive direc-
Human Rights Campaign: “Regardless tor, Maryland Catholic Conference: “For
visit chesapeakepridefestival.org for more info of how old you are, it’s the first time you us in Maryland, the vote on marriage this
have ever seen a president of the U.S. November has nothing to do with politics.
Find us on Facebook! facebook.com/chesapeakepride look into a camera and say that a gay per- It will be a vote on the issue of marriage
son should be treated equally under the itself.”
law. The message that that sends, to a Mitt Romney, presumptive Repub-
young gay or transgendered person strug- lican presidential nominee: “I have the
gling to come out, is life changing.” same view on marriage that I had when I
Trevor Ankeny, board president, was governor. I believe marriage is a rela-
call 410-599-0273 for more information on all 3 events GLCCB: “The president of the United tionship between a man and a woman.” t
4t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM
NEWS // LOCAL
volunteers showed up to help create a float signed into law the Civil Marriage Protec- Tune into Secret Millionaire beginning
The Den Opens for the Pride Parade in Baltimore. The Den tion Act, which allows same-gender cou- Sunday, June 3 at 8 p.m. and watch the
Doors to LGBT Youth will continue to be open on Saturdays from
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. leading up to Pride to work
ples to legally marry in Maryland effective
January 2013. The law also protects reli-
series.
We will be planning a “viewing event”
on the float. Also, every other month on gious institutions from being forced to of- for August 26, so that we all have an op-
BY STEVE CHARING Saturdays the community may join in the ficiate ceremonies involving same-gender portunity to be together to recognize and
On May 5, the culmination of two years of steering committee meetings. couples. Opponents of the law are cur- celebrate our secret millionaire! t
planning and persistence took place as “With The Den opening its doors on rently gathering signatures to petition the Tom Bonderenko is the executive di-
the Gay & Lesbian Community Center of May 5, we are hoping to take that first step measure to referendum. If that effort is rector of Moveable Feast
Baltimore (GLCCB) opened its doors to in Baltimore to address these structural successful, it will be put before the voters
The Den, Baltimore’s all-volunteer LGBTQ challenges,” Young explained. “The Den in November.
Youth Center. According to the organiza- will provide a space for youth throughout The chapter is also asking PFLAG
tion’s website (Theden- the city to establish healthy relationships members to bring a friend to the meeting
baltimore.org), with their peers, experience safe mentor- who had never previously attended. t
“The Den will ship with adults, receive access to com- CHASE BREXTON
serve as a petent mental and physical health screen- FINDS NEW LEADER
safe space ings, access tutoring help when needed – continued from front page
for Balti- and experience social and cultural enrich- Moveable Feast
ment opportunities. All of these services
more’s LG-
BTQ ado- are designed to support and strengthen to be Featured on and clinic into state of the art facilities in
2013 at the Monumental Life Building pur-
lescents and the next generation of LGBTQ youth in
Baltimore.”
‘Secret Millionaire’ chased in 2011 under the interim leader-
young adults ship of Dan Neumeister.
ages 13-24 Fusion Partnerships is the fiscal spon-
During the past year of his term as in-
with reliable, sor for The Den. They are currently raising BY TOM BONDERENKO terim CEO with Chase Brexton, Neumeis-
cultur- ally competent, high funds to hire a coordinator. t Last summer Moveable Feast chosen from ter has overseen growth in the number of
quality services that will aid in their social, more than 25 nonprofits who were inter- patients served, as well as provided lead-
physical, mental, scholastic and career de- viewed in Baltimore to be part of a docu-
velopment.” mentary film, America Works. In the final
Kalima Young, a professor and activist, PFLAG to Host taping it was revealed to us that it was in
is chair of steering committee for The Den. fact a taping of
“It is critical that we make youth a priority Marriage Equality ABC’s show Se-
in the LGBTQ movement. For far too long
LGBTQ youth have suffered from our un-
Panel cret Millionaire
(Abc.go.com/ ership as the organization pursues a high-
willingness as adults to address structural shows/secret- er level of integrated patient care as a Pa-
issues such as poverty, classicism, racism PFLAG Westminster-Carroll County (Par- millionaire). tient Centered Medical Home. Neumeister
and sexism in the LGBTQ community that ents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and While I am will continue as interim CEO until Larison’s
directly impacts where and how youth ex- Gays) – will present a not yet free to reveal the secret millionaire, arrival in July.
perience the LGBTQ community,” she told panel discussion con- I am thrilled to announce that Moveable Chase Brexton has served the LGBT
Baltimore OUTloud. sisting of same-gen- Feast will be featured on this national tele- community since 1978, providing a range
Prior to May 5, The Den was set up as der and heterosexual vision show, along with one other nonprofit of clinical services from primary medical
a roving project that offered safe events at couples. All meetings organization, and one community-based care to behavioral health services to phar-
various venues for young people. Now it are free, confidential initiative in Baltimore, with whom we work macy, among others. It currently operates
has a home at the GLCCB’s Chase Street and open to the public very closely. four centers located in Baltimore City, Bal-
building. On opening day, 25 youth and with activities for chil- This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity timore County, Howard County and Talbot
dren. Light refresh- for us to have national recognition for the County. For more information, visit Chase-
OUTloud
ments will be served. life-saving work we do each day. Brexton.org. t
What: PFLAG Westminster-Carroll
County General Meeting
When: May 20 at 5 p.m.
Baltimor
Where: Fellowship Hall, St. Paul’s
United Church of Christ, 17 Bond St. (at e
Corner of Green St.), Westminster, MD
21157
Contact: June Horner, 410-795-2418, AN INDEPENDEN
T VOICE FOR TH
e-mail: junehorner@gmail.com. E LESBIAN, GAY,
BISEXUAL AND TRANSGEN
The program will feature a panel pre- The owners of Ba DER COMMUNIT
sentation on marriage equality. Several ltimore OUTlou Y
and others who d extend our war
couples – gay and straight – will participate have supported mest appreciatio
to serving the co and made our pa n to our reader
and will discuss why marriage is important mmunity anothe per the success s, staff
r year when we it is. We look forw
to them. A general discussion and Q & A w ill ce lebrate our tent ard
Our warmest af h anniversary.
session will follow. Information on the legal fection,
rights of married couples will be available Jim Becker and
Jim Williams,
as well. Publishers
On March 1, Governor Martin O’Malley
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM t 5
BEYOND THE BELTWAY
compiled by Jim Becker
ments of support. Hansen, whose union promise of equal protection for all.” event, held the third weekend of May and
represents 1.3 million workers primarily in The three former justices who were September, just seems to happen every
Major unions back the food processing and retail industries, honored in Boston May 7 – David Baker, year by word-of-mouth. There is no orga-
Obama on marriage is a longtime supporter of LGBT rights. Michael Streit and Marsha Ternus – had nization, leader or sponsor. “It’s not spon-
‘Marriage equality is an economic justice the bad fortune to be the first three who sored or run by anyone because of liability.
equality issue and a social justice issue – and that were up for a retention vote by the people Everyone is responsible for themselves,”
makes it a union issue,’ he said. Cohen of Iowa. National anti-gay forces poured Julius said. The only cost to campers in-
Wa s h i n g t o n , also noted that his union has supported millions into the state and marshaled an volves buying a Tonto National Forest pass.
D.C. – Within marriage equality for almost a decade. unprecedented scare campaign against Julius, a web designer, said he creat-
hours of Presi- ‘Nearly ten years ago, CWA convention the three justices. It worked. All three lost ed the Bartlett Bash
dent Obama’s delegates called for full and equal rights in- their seats, something they knew might website more than a
historic May cluding civil marriage, pointing out that far happen when the ruling was made public. decade ago to keep
9 statement too many benefits and protections of civil It’s saying something that every justice de- the social event go-
on marriage marriage are denied to people on the basis cided they would be willing to lose a seat ing. On the site,
equality, the of sexual orientation,’ he said. CWA repre- on the highest court in their state, just to campers can create
heads of a Obama and AFL- sents more than half a million workers in prove that the law should apply to every- profiles with pictures
number of CIO President Rich the telephone, newspaper, and broadcast- one equally. and other details,
major labor Trumka ing industries. (Seattle Gay News – Mike As Caroline Kennedy reminded ev- such as if they want
unions an- Andrew at Sgn.org) eryone at the ceremony, “{j}ust as judges to carpool. The website recently showed
nounced their backing for his position. stood firm for civil rights 50 years ago, profiles from 118 couples and 174 single
AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka said his Marsha Ternus, David Baker and Michael campers. “Some have used it for dating,”
union federation was ‘proud’ to support Streit, their colleagues on the Iowa Su- Julius acknowledged. Julius said the Bash
equality. “Working people believe in equal- preme Court, and dozens of other public is special because it attracts all kinds of
ity and fairness and that’s why we are hap- servants all across the country – legisla- people. “It’s not complicated, it’s just a
py to stand with millions of Americans and tors, governors, mayors, city councilors good time,” he said. (Echo Magazine – Ray
with President Obama in supporting mar- and judges – have put their own careers Parker at Echomag.com)
riage equality,” Trumka said. “LGBT work- on the line to uphold the rule of law and
ing people face numerous inequities in the extend the fundamental promise of equal
workplace and in society as they struggle rights to same-sex couples.” That was an
to care for their families. Civil unions do amazing moment. In that library, giving out Trans man
not guarantee the 1,138 rights, benefits,
and responsibilities that are triggered by
that award, to those Iowa justices – some who gave birth
of whom at first found the gay marriage is-
the word ‘marriage’ under federal law. sue to be a little foreign – who spoke of separates from wife
Most important, we should respect and the epiphany many of them felt as they
honor our friends, neighbors, and family Awardees David Baker, Michael Streit examined the case. Their eyes were also Phoenix, AZ – Thomas Beatie, a female-
members who want to take care of their and Marsha Ternus opened to the raw hatred of some of the to-male transgender who became known
families and their loved ones – whatever other side. (Bay Windows – Jeff Epperly at as the world’s first man to give birth, has
their sexual orientation. We are proud to Baywindows.com) separated from his wife of nine years.
come together for a more just America,” he Ousted Iowa Beatie, his wife Nancy and their three chil-
added
Mary Kay Henry, an out Lesbian and
justices receive dren moved to Phoenix in 2010 from Bend,
Ore. Nancy was originally from Phoenix.
president of SEIU – the largest union not JFK Courage award Arizona gay The breakup was first revealed by
affiliated with the AFL-CIO – also cel-
ebrated Obama’s announcement. ‘Earlier Boston, MA – The JFK Library Founda-
campers to hold Beatie during the taping of the syndicated
TV show The Doctors, which aired May 7.
today, President Obama joined a host of tion’s Profiles in Courage Awards are pre- twice yearly event He also said
faith, civil rights, business, and political sented annually to public servants who that he has
leaders who have publicly voiced their have made courageous decisions of con- Bartlett Lake, AZ – More than 100 Valley undergone
support of marriage equality,’ she said. science without regard for the personal or campers are expected attend the Bartlett final gender
The president’s support comes at a critical professional consequences. Three former Lake Bash weekend, a gay camping event reassignment
moment as the rights of LGBT people are Iowa Supreme Court justices were recog- that has become a spring and fall tradi- surgery.
under legislative attack in Minnesota, New nized with an award that usually goes to tion. The Bartlett Bash will be May 18-20 at Beatie, 38,
Jersey, North Carolina, and elsewhere…. legislative officials from around the world, Bartlett Lake in the Tonto National Forest. had legally
The president understands what we do – but the awards committee made an excep- The event started more than 20 years ago switched to a Thomas Beatie and family
marriage equality is about family, commu- tion this year. The justices were part of the with a few friends and has grown to include male identity
nity, love, and justice, she said. Noting the unanimous Iowa high court that said in a more than 250 “Bashers” who follow the while preserv-
flurry of attacks on LGBT rights in North landmark 2009 ruling, “Civil marriage must event’s Facebook page. ing female reproductive organs. When
Carolina and other states, Henry added be judged under our constitutional stan- Troy Julius created a website that cel- Nancy was no longer able to get pregnant
that ‘we cannot live up to our promise as a dards of equal protection and not under ebrates the event. “The original owners of following a hysterectomy, Beatie interrupt-
nation until we extend equal rights to all.’ religious doctrines or the religious views Apollo’s Lounge had a boat ... and some- ed testosterone treatments to become ar-
SEIU represents some 1.8 million workers of individuals. This approach does not dis- one had the idea at the bar and it just grew,” tificially inseminated. The news of his first
in health care, janitorial services, and the respect or denigrate the religious views of Julius said. “It’s a great social event and pregnancy made headlines in 2007 when
public sector. many Iowans who may strongly believe in you’re getting away from the norm, into photos were released of his pregnant belly.
UFCW president Joe Hansen, CWA marriage as a dual-gender union, but con- a different environment.” Campers bring He wrote the book Labor of Love, The Sto-
president Larry Cohen, and AFSCME pres- siders, as we must, only the constitutional tents, RVs and Jet Skis, and even play ping ry of One Man’s Extraordinary Pregnancy.
ident Gerald McEntee also issued state- rights of all people, as expressed by the pong during the weekend at the lake. The (Echo Magazine at Echomag.com)
6t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM
BEYOND THE BELTWAY
indicated that they oppose both same-sex way, but will also become a venue where ing as this looks, it’s all hypothetical right
Unlike GOP, Texas marriage and civil unions. (Dallas Voice – API LGBTs and allies can gather to en- now. The scientific minds behind RISUG,
Dems for US Senate David Taffet at Dallasvoice.com) hance and strengthen our community net- another male birth control method already
patented in the United States but not yet
work.” (Seattle Gay News – Shaun Knittel
favor gay marriage at Sgn.org) FDA-approved, are working on the clean
sheets pill. The new pill totally inhibits the
Dallas, TX – While four names will appear Pride Asia to hold release of semen by relaxing the longitu-
on the Democratic ballot for U.S. Senate,
only two candidates are actively mounting
first ever Pacific New male birth dinal muscles of the Wolffian duct system
while permitting the circular muscles to
a statewide campaign. Paul Sadler, 56, is a heritage celebration control pill may contract. Thus, the circular muscles clamp
former state representative from East Tex- down on the lax longitudinal muscles car-
as. Sean Hubbard, 30, of Dallas is seeking Seattle, WA – Advocates, entertainers, help stop HIV rying sperm. All fluids are stopped before
public office for the first time. The winner and organizers from the Seattle-area Asian emission, and are recycled by the body
of the primary will try to become the first and Pacific Islander (API) communities Seattle, WA – Male birth control. Aside normally. It doesn’t stop the orgasm; it just
Democrat to win a statewide race since and their allies have scheduled the first- from condoms and vasectomies, you’re stops the release of fluid.
1994, in the race to replace retiring Sen. ever Pride Asia event at Hing Hay Park in probably asking yourself why you never This obviously is going to turn off a lot
Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Dallas. the heart of the Chinatown/International hear of this and why is it relevant to the of gay men as a potential way to halt HIV
“The more established part of the District of Seattle, on Saturday, June 23, LGBT community? Still in the early stages transmission, but if the clean sheets pill is
party is pro-Sadler,” Stonewall Democrats from noon to 6 p.m. of research, non-hormonal birth-control found after trials to work, not only could it
of Dallas President Omar Narvaez said. “It is our hope to celebrate the diversity methods designed for men could make serve as a temporary way to deal with HIV
“Those of us who are non-conformist are and culture of our LGBT communities with birth control for straight couples a lot transmission, but it could lead to a perma-
pro-Sean.” Both are solid on LGBT issues, this event,” said Seattle API officials in a simpler. Men could pick up the slack and nent and more likeable solution. Dr. Nnae-
although Sadler’s views have evolved statement. women could finally stop taking the pill, meka Amobi and Dr. Christopher Smith, the
since he first served in the House. Former Aleksa Manila, host and co-organiz- with its plethora of hormonal effects that inventors of the pill, expect to reach 100%
state Rep. Harryette Ehrhardt, a pioneer- er of this first annual event, Pride Asia, can cause nausea, dizziness, depression, efficacy, but because of funding problems,
ing LGBT ally, said she’s a big supporter moved to the U.S. in 1995 from Manila, and even de-creased sex drive. they can’t move forward at this time. Money
of Sadler. Ehrhardt said when she served Philippines, with her family to continue One new method of male birth control, set aside for contraceptive research is very
in the Legislature, he was always some- with college. now dubbed the ‘clean sheets’ pill, could limited, but for HIV transmission prevention,
one she relied on for advice. “He was a Now 36 years old and one of Seattle’s theoretically halt HIV transmission. How- there’s nothing like it. t (Seattle Gay News
great leader,” she said. “In the early ’90s, most recognizable entertainers, Manila ever, it is important to note that as promis- – James Whitely at Sgn.org)
it wasn’t popular to support hate crimes told Seattle Gay News that the group of
[legislation].” Sadler was a co-sponsor of a individuals working on this project are “a
gay-inclusive hate crimes bill in 1999 and very important collective” working to ‘cre-
2001, when it finally passed. But Sadler’s ate safe space for all LGBT Asians and
position on other LGBT issues seems to Asian Americans in the Northwest to raise
have evolved. In a 1998 he did not sup- awareness of the LGBT cause among API
port job discrimination protection for LGBT individuals, families, and communities.”
people or same-sex marriages?” Now he “As with most cultures, and although it
favors both. varies from country to country,’ she said,
Hubbard said he’s the candidate who’s ‘family culture is a very important aspect
been consistent on LGBT issues. He calls of API identity. Couple that with LGBT is-
the issue of marriage equality personal. sues like coming out, faith / spirituality /
Because his wife is Asian, he said he would religion, and self-esteem – the issues for
have been denied the right to marry her Queer APIs can be overwhelming, and
in some states before the 1967 Loving v. sometimes devastating.”
Virginia decision. “And I’m the only person Victor Loo, director of recovery servic-
who can get Democrats excited,” he said. es at Asian Counseling and Referral Ser-
All four of the major GOP candidates have vice, said, “Pride Asia is an event where
we can show that API LGBT individuals are
creative and resilient people who are out
and proud, just like you.”
Loo came to the U.S. in 2000 after re-
These news notes have been compiled,
ceiving the chance to further his education
with permission, from the online version
in social and human services.
of various newspapers and other web
“I immigrated from Singapore to the
sites. We thank these publications for
U.S. to find a place where I can feel lib-
allowing us to bring you their news sto-
ries. Usually the reports have been sig- erated to be who I am and be truthful to
nificantly edited and you can read the myself, since being gay is not only a taboo
full story by going to the web site men- in my home country, but it is also illegal. To
tioned following the item. Comments my understanding, there isn’t an organized
are strictly the opinions of Jim Becker entity that unites API LGBTs and allies in
and not of Baltimore OUTloud or Pride Washington state, and hopefully this event
Media. will not only generate more awareness to
the public through an interactive and fun
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM t 7
Meet the Press that he is “absolutely com- and “boots on the ground” to execute an California has been cited as one of the fac-
fortable” with marriage equality. already formidable ground plan. tors in the Proposition 8 debacle in 2008.
Although not on the schedule of his How this news will play out in Maryland History must not be allowed to repeat itself
choice, the president made his historic during the near-certain referendum battle in Maryland. The persuadable “soft” voters
OUT announcement on May 9 (see front page
story). It was met with enormous enthu-
in Maryland is also murky. Polls don’t offer
many clues as the voters in the Free State
should be targeted with a robust education
campaign.
Spoken siasm from important components of the are virtually split on the question of mar- The Maryland Black Family Alliance
Steve Charing Democratic base: gays and lesbians, vot- riage equality. But with Obama being the (MBFA) met in late April with Josh Levin,
ers under 40, college educated, subur- first black president of the U.S., there is a the new campaign manager for Maryland-
ban women, Hollywood types, and yes, unique dynamic to consider. ers for Marriage Equality, to discuss a
How Will Obama’s independents who lean towards marriage
equality.
For the earlier column, I did receive
some insight as a result of polling data
strategy for reaching out to African-Ameri-
can voters, particularly in Baltimore. Some
Support Play Lacking the same level of enthusiasm
this cycle that was evident in 2008, the
from OpinionWorks. African-Americans
who comprise nearly 30
who attended that meeting, however,
voiced concerns
in Maryland? revelation was the perfect catalyst to inject
much needed fervor into the 2012 cam-
percent of the state’s
population are more
that a clear plan
has not yet been
paign. Immediate tangible results followed: inclined to vote against formulated.
In a column I wrote over six weeks ago, the president raised around $15 million at marriage equality in Levin did not
“Game Changer-in-Chief,” I indicated a Hollywood fundraiser hosted by George a referendum. And it respond to mul-
that there was at least a 50-50 chance Clooney the next night. is expected that with tiple requests to
the Obama would come out for marriage It is unclear how the risks and rewards Obama on the ballot in go on record to
equality before the election and it could will eventually play out with the election November, higher than alleviate those
help in thwarting a referendum attempt by less than six months away. Some have normal turnout among concerns.
marriage equality opponents. speculated this announcement may cost African-Americans is a Nonethe-
As we are now learning, Obama had Obama among working class voters in slam-dunk. less, Lea Gilm-
already completed his evolution on mar- some battleground states. I disagree. The independent ore, a founder
riage for same-sex couples months ago This election will be about the economy survey taken in mid- of MBFA, who
and was planning to make the announce- unless some international event changes March reveals that in did not attend
ment probably right before the Democratic the trajectory. And Obama’s public support Baltimore City, the state’s most populous that particular meeting but participated in
Convention in September. However, that for marriage equality will continue to gen- jurisdiction, voters oppose marriage equal- a follow-up meeting stated: “The MBFA is
decision to go public was accelerated erate passion, which not only translates ity 49 to 35 percent. And among African- looking forward to working closely with ref-
by Vice President Biden’s declaration on into dollars raised but also adds volunteers Americans statewide, those who oppose erendum Campaign Manager Josh Levin
the law outweigh supporters by a margin and the marriage coalition. We will be an
of 48 to 29 percent. active, necessary and informative part of
Those are big deficits to overcome. The the campaign and have been assured no
Monday & Tuesday Karaoke with Nikki Maryland Marriage Alliance who is partner-
ing with the Maryland Catholic Conference
less. Maintaining and gaining more Afri-
can-American support is crucial to a win.
has reached the halfway point in obtaining Of course, there have been missteps in
WeDNeSDay the requisite number of valid signatures the past, but we are looking forward and
Happy Hour 4-8 to place the issue of marriage equality will work in partnership to ensure that our
on the ballot in November. Many African- LGBT brothers and sisters retain the legal
THurSDay
American pastors are aligned with this or- right to marry in Maryland.”
Ladies Night ganization and have used their churches As the clock ticks down towards the
$2.50 drinks til 11pm to distribute petitions to volunteers and to election, a considerable amount of work
FriDay conduct training. remains.
Dance Party Steve Raabe, President of Opinion- What marriage equality advocates
$2.50 drinks til 11pm Works told me in late March that if Presi- need to do is frame the issue as one of
dent Obama were to publicly embrace “equal rights,” not “civil rights,” The use of
SaTurDay
marriage equality, it could influence those the latter term has been a key obstacle in
DJ, Happy Hour 8-10pm African-Americans who are “soft” on the is- winning over African-Americans.
$3 rail & Domestic sue. In addition, emphasis must be made
SuNDay “It is likely that people with the stron- that religious institutions are protected by
2-4-1 Drinks Sunday gest feelings on this issue have already the law. Some are still suspicious that they
(excludes top shelf) declared will be forced to officiate same-sex unions.
themselves, so that the referendum And according to the above poll, those who
buy your first drink, battle will be waged over the small num- attend church once a week – regardless of
receive a token for your next, ber in the middle who may be coming out race – oppose same-sex marriage by 58
can be used till 8pm or to vote in the presidential race, but for per cent to 28 percent.
for any Happy Hour whom this issue is not do or die,” Raabe President Obama’s announcement
explained. could provide cover to those who are not
Still, there needs to be a plan in place deeply religious and may now find a reason
to target those “soft” voters within the Afri- to vote against the referendum. A fresh,
Grand Central Nightclub • 410.752.7133 can-American community. Such a plan has new independent poll will offer us more in-
not yet been publicly articulated to those sight into the prospects, but a strategy that
1001-1003 North Charles St., Baltimore, MD who are seeking marriage equality. A lack is shared with the LGBT community must
www.centralstationpub.com • Visit us on Facebook of outreach to African-American voters in be in place and soon. t
8t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM
worked in the building where the construc-
tion was taking place, took notice of Eric.
She was a foreword woman, and invited
Eric to dinner. Eric accepted. He offered to
bring a bottle of wine and asked what wine
she preferred. “The kind in a pretty bottle,”
she said.
Eric, a oenophile, accepted the chal-
lenge and, ignoring his predilections,
Calico Apron chose a bottle based solely on the beau-
ty of the label. It wasn’t long before Eric
was living with Shirley. Her country home
After Erica’s first attempt at transitioning, featured a pool table and a bar in the liv-
she lost her well-paying job, was divorced, ing room. Come winter Eric was hauling
and lost all of her savings in a failed busi- in firewood for the wood burning stove; a
ness venture. She thought to try living as whole new world for Eric. Nevertheless, it
a male, one more time. She was not suc- was warm.
cessful at that, and now lives full time as a One night, Shirley’s adult son, John-
woman, happy at last. That was 20 years ny, arrived with his buddies and a fresh-
ago. This is the saga of her “manly” ad- killed dear. Bambi burgers on the grill! Eric
venture. pulled out from his secret place a bottle of
Unable to find employment in her field vintage port. It was memorable feast. Eric
and about to be evicted she took up work male-bonded with Johnny’s friends.
in construction. She was at the bottom One Sunday afternoon, while Eric was
of the totem pole, working for minimum making shrimp étouffée for Shirley and the
wage, unloading trucks. Weighing it at 128 boys as they watched the football game,
pounds, “Eric” was the natural choice to Eric emerged from the kitchen in his calico
climb into the top of the shipping contain- apron to see if the boys wanted snacks
ers to retrieve 120-pound boxes of steel before dinner. When he entered the room,
fixtures from the nose of the containers. the boys were discussing what makes a
This involved crawling to the front of the “real man.” Eric held back the tears when
container, where the August outdoor heat he heard Johnny say, “Eric is a real man.”
was 98 degrees. Eric never ventured to The guys were perplexed. “More like Felix
guess what the heat was at the nose of the Unger,” laughed one of the boys. Johnny
container. went on to explain that Eric stood up for
On Eric’s first day of work the project what is right even when outnumbered, had
coordinator laughed, “Those pants won’t told people clearly that certain language
last very long,” he said. Eric was wear- could not be used in the house, even
ing Armani slacks, he owned no jeans. He though it was not his house. At length, the
wore an 18kt gold Patek Philippe watch. guys agreed.
Though worth more than a Rolex, it resem- The shrimp étouffée was a success.
bled a Timex and went unnoticed. Eric was Eric thought about his youth and the men
out of place. and women that guided his worldview. In
A few weeks into the project coordina- his personal life, it was mostly dykes. He
tor asked Eric, “Come on, what are you thought also of Fred Rogers. In his young
doing here? You don’t belong here, what’s adult years he worked with young children.
the catch?” He thought about Mister Rogers’ Neigh-
Eric, feeling mischievous that day, said, borhood, and the be-sweatered man who
“I’m working on my doctorate in sociology.” was always himself, a man who stood
He quoted Levi Straus, the anthropolo- against the tide of what some think it is
gist, not the jeans manufacturer. Eric said to be a man. “Now there is a “real man,”
that he was studying male troop-bonding Erica thought.
in primitive cultures, quoting the French In 1997, Fred Rogers was awarded an
anthropologist, Lévy-Bruhl, he said, “The Emmy, amongst the glitterati of daytime
primitive mentality is a condition of the hu- TV, Rogers accepted his Emmy with hu-
man mind, and not a stage in its historical mility. “All of us have special ones who
development.” have loved us into being. Would you just
It was a big fib, but James, the proj- take, along with me, ten seconds to think
ect coordinator, swallowed it. They went of the people who have helped you be-
out drinking that night and male-bonded. come who you are. Ten seconds of si-
This was really quite liberating for Eric. He lence,” he said.
could play at being male much better than Today Erica, once Eric, would like you
real males because nothing could threaten to join with her in taking ten seconds of
his masculinity. His “masculinity” was a silence to think of the people who have
farce, an actor upon a stage. helped you to become who you are. t
Shirley, an attractive woman who Names have been changed.
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM t 9
FROM THE OFFICE OF
MAYOR STEPHANIE RAWLINGS-BLAKE
WISHING BALTIMORE
A HAPPY
PRIDE 2012
410.396.3835 www.BaltimoreCity.gov
10 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COMTHE MEMBERS OF BALTIMORE CITY COUNCIL
WISH YOU A
HAPPY PRIDE 2012
COUNCIL PRESIDENT DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5
Bernard C. James B. Kraft Brandon M. Scott Robert Curran Bill Henry Rochelle “Rikki”
“Jack” Young Spector
410.396.4821 410.396.4808 410.396.4812 410.396.4830
410.396.4804 James.Kraft@ Brandon.Scott@ Robert.Curran@ Bill.Henry@ 410.396.4819
CouncilPresident@ baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov Rochelle.Spector@
baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov
DISTRICT 6 DISTRICT 7 DISTRICT 9 DISTRICT 11 DISTRICT 12 DISTRICT 12
Sharon Green Nick Mosby William “Pete” William H. Carl Stokes Mary Pat Clarke
Middleton Welch Cole IV
410.396.4810 410.396.4811 410.396.4814
410.396.4832 Nick.Mosby@ 410.396.4815 410.396.4816 Carl.Stokes@ MaryPat.Clarke@
Sharon.Middleton@ baltimorecity.gov William.Welch@ William.Cole@ baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov
baltimorecity.gom baltimorecity.gov baltimorecity.gov
www.BaltimoreCityCouncil.com
BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COM t 11Republicans pushed DOMA to prevent LO: This struggle reminded me of the
the federal government from recognizing strength it takes to stand on your faith and to
walk in it, as Christ did so many times dur-
Ladybug’s any marriage between gay couples and to
ensure that states didn’t have to recognize ing his short tenure of activism. It encouraged
Political gay couples legally married elsewhere. They Crossroads me to believe in the power of love, because
Smackdown pushed DOMA because they are bigots kick Chronicles although the amendment passed, those in the
struggle were able to step across their bound-
Cathy Brennan gays in order to advance their political agen- Rev. Mother Meredith Moise ary lines and see justice as the light. I learned
da. Bill Clinton signed DOMA in a low-key
manner, knowing even then that his act con- how strong I could be when embraced with
DOMA and the demned gays and lesbians to a lifetime of
future heartache. That’s because DOMA de-
Lessons from others that are led by the love of God. I
learned what it meant to really fight, which is
Reckoning prives gay couples of a whole host of rights,
including medical leave pay for employees North Carolina not always about winning.
MM: How have you developed in light
of your activism?
who leave to care for a partner, health care
A few months ago, Huffington Post featured benefits and work/injury compensation, pen- Reverend Leslie E.E. Oliver is a seasoned LO: I found a power within me that gave
the story of Kathryn Lehman, a Republican sion and educational benefits, and equal faith activist living in North Carolina. This me the capability of inspiring others. I de-
lawyer who helped pass the 1996 law the treatment in inheritance tax, joint income sister began marching with black poet Amiri veloped a sense of pride in the heroes and
Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which de- tax return filings, and spousal protections Baraka in the late 80s. She was recently in- sheroes before me, one that deepened as I
fines marriage as between one man and one for long-term care under Medicaid. All told, volved in the fight against North Carolina’s reflected on their courage, sacrifice, wisdom
woman. HuffPo heralded Lehman – who has DOMA deprives gay and lesbian couples of Amendment 1, which enshrined a ban on and vulnerability. I developed a passion for
now come out as a lesbian – for now lobby- some 1,138 rights afforded by marriage rec- same sex marriage in the state’s constitu- “war”, that is the war to uncover love where
ing to repeal the law. ognition. tion. Rev. Oliver is a minister in an affirming others try to bury it.
HuffPo revised the history of 1996 and DOMA also deprives same-sex bi- African-American church, Unity Fellowship MM: Maryland may be facing a refer-
allowed Lehman to justify her DOMA support national couples of the ability to acquire a Church of Charlotte, which played a profound endum regarding same-sex marriage leg-
thusly: green card for the non-U.S. citizen partner. role in galvanizing constituents and building islation. What are three points of advice
“There was nobody married, it wasn’t This means that U.S. citizens cannot spon- faith coalitions against the amendment. In the you would give people of faith here in this
allowed anywhere… (t)he view of gay peo- sor their partners for legal permanent resi- following, she brilliantly lays out her thoughts community?
ple... it wasn’t Ellen [DeGeneres]. It wasn’t dent status, leading to citizenship. For the about organizing affirming communities of LO: One; knowledge is your great-
Neil Patrick Harris. It was kinky sex and non-U.S. citizen forced to truck back and faith in the midst of great challenge. She re- est power. Being informed and thoroughly
women riding around on motorcycles without forth between the U.S. and their country of minds us what can happen when crisis meets searching all aspects of an issue are key for
shirts on. That was sort of the view that the origin, the government can deny entry into opportunity through a Christian lens. leaders, listeners and followers. Two; let love
community projected as well.” the U.S. if it discovers the relationship – be- Mother Meredith: What was your jour- lead. It may be tempting to let other emotions
What, what? This is clearly false, as cause, you know, such person might over- ney to ministry and activism? drive the charge, but love will give you the
any lesbian with a pulse knows full well that stay their tourist visa. LO: I began marching with Professor peace and wisdom to charge gracefully to
K.D. Lang appeared on the cover of Vanity With the real threat that the government Amiri Baraka while a student at Rutgers Uni- victory, even while the swords swing against
Fair with Cindy Crawford in 1993. I was 25 can decide to keep bi-national couples sepa- versity in the late 80s. We were protesting the you. Love always wins in the end. Three; look
in 1996, and fully active rate if they speak publicly, university’s refusal to grant him tenure. I’ve for the unusual allies. You never know who is
in a gay community that is it any wonder that many been in ministry since my early 20s, although willing to help you. Don’t put justice in a box.
went beyond “kinky sex” in the gay and lesbian I come from five generations of pastors and MM: How can affirming faith leaders
and shirtless dykes (both community had no idea evangelists. and lay people amplify their voices for
of which are awesome). that DOMA impacted im- MM: What role did your church, Unity equality?
“It wasn’t people that migration? Fellowship Church of Charlotte play in the LO: We must continue to live and love as
you know, people that And that leads me to Amendment 1 battle? Christ the Savior did, not just from the word,
you work with, people Inger and Philippa Knud- LO: Our Charlotte church was a corner- but also from the actions explained and de-
just like everybody else.” son-Judd: These women stone in the fight against the amendment. We scribed in the word of God. We must also live
What, really? – legally married in Iowa held prayer services, information sessions, authentic lives in our faith and know that we
By 1996, the Balti- and raising a child – can- hosted community forums (including Jen are called to preach good news in all sea-
more City Circuit Court not currently live together Jones and Equality N.C.’s “Race to the Bal- sons. We must be the light that others can
Inger and Philippa Knudson-Judd seek out, even if it means we are the only
had been granting sec- in the U.S. because of lot”), and have participated in various rallies
ond-parent adoptions to DOMA. Philippa, a citizen to oppose the amendment. My pastor, Bishop flicker in a dark room. Our authenticity, light
gay couples for a few years, marking the be- of the United Kingdom, must jet to and fro Tonyia M. Rawls, has worked and traveled and the power of love will amplify our voices
ginning of the “gay family” movement in the across the Atlantic to accommodate Kath- across the state to join other faith leaders loud enough to draw attention to the fight for
state. Perhaps more importantly, the Balti- ryn Lehman’s 1996 homophobic wish for and community activists in the fight against justice.
more Justice Campaign spearheaded efforts gay-free marriages. Please understand this Amendment 1. MM: How do the lessons of the civil
throughout the early to mid-1990s to amend – Philippa is forced to be apart from her wife MM: What significant roles did people rights movement and the women’s rights
Baltimore City’s law to extend domestic and her child because of Kathryn Lehman’s of faith play in the Amendment 1 battle? movement apply to the struggle for LGBT
partnership recognition to city employees work. LO: Not only has the faith community equality?
and their families. The measure failed at the This is an abomination. This is not how led from the front lines in this fight for justice, LO: These landmark movements became
time, but to say that gays and lesbians cow- things should be in the United States of we have been a part of every major initiative notable because of the willingness to act, per-
ered in dark corners in shame is pure fiction America. Gays and lesbians, if we do not against the amendment and have been the severe, join together and remain optimistic.
sprung from the recesses of Lehman’s ho- prioritize the safety and security of our fami- voices that have inspired and encouraged Both movements endured battles over
mophobic mind. lies, no one else will. We need to take ac- others to look past religion and to embrace many decades until justice rose to the sur-
So, Kathryn Lehman is wrong, but this tion to ensure DOMA’s repeal, but we can this fight as a challenge to human and civil face.
piece isn’t about Kathryn Lehman and the take steps now to bring couples like Philippa rights. Surely, we should expect history to give
lies she tells herself to assuage her guilt – and Inger that much closer to being at home MM: What were the important lessons us the armor needed to fight diligently.
it’s about DOMA. you learned from this struggle? MM: In the face of seeming defeat, how
—continued on page 14
—continued on page 14
12 t BALTIMORE OUTLOUD MAY 18, 2012 • BALTIMOREOUTLOUD.COMYou can also read
