L.A. GAY & LESBIAN CENTER’S MONTHLY NEWSLET TER–READ BY MORE THAN 60,000 PEOPLE
PULLING BACK THE CURTAIN ON TRANS HEALTH pg. 10
FANS FUEL FUNDRAISING for Elena Undone star pg. 8 VISIT US virtually pg. 7
MAY 2013
Wells
L.a. Gay & LeSbian Center & brent boLthouSe, Shannon deL, annie Goto, KeLLy LynCh and Linda Perry invite you to Fa r g o presen ts
With live performances by
Hosted by
Natasha BediNgField
Kathy griFFiN
ozzy osBourNe sia Benefiting the Center’s life-saving services and enrichment programs for women and girls
Saturday, May 18, 2013 The Beverly Hilton Hotel 6 p.m. Cocktails & Silent Auction | 8 p.m. Dinner & Program | Afterparty with Afro Dz Scratch
Visit aneveningwithwomen.org or call 323.993.7408.
PlatiNuM sPoNsors
gold sPoNsors
eLizabeth o’Connor & Laura KhorShid roberta Conroy dr.van FLetCher & CharLeS PauL
CoNtriButiNg sPoNsors
silVer sPoNsors
FRANK POND ANDRAE CORRiGAN & TiGERLiLy ROSEN SUE DUNLAP & HEATHER CARRiGAN STEVEN SVEHLAK, MD SUNSET COSMETiC SURGERy & VARiNA WHiTENER
ViP taBle hosts Annie Goto & Kelly Lynch Loren Ostrow & Brian Newkirk Tad Brown, Jon Daillak & Mike Holtzman taBle hosts Shannon Aikman – LA Chicks Andrea Meyerson Ashley Hydrick, Tracie Ayala & Bridget Hauserman 2
MAY 2013
Brad Ong Caroline Medlen Elaine Mallon Emily Urbani & Lauren Custer Gary Roberts Kate Falberg & Monique Predovich Kathy Ketchum & Gay Linvill Kathleen Sullivan & Rebecca Levison Kimberly Knoller, Kelly Boesch & C. Fitz
Lisa Samsky Lorri L. Jean & Gina M. Calvelli Luis Cortes Maria Martinico & Jodi Bonk Mark Neveu & Steven Burrows Marki Knox & Suzie Brown Michael Ferrera & Kevin Berg Nellie Sims Nik Kacy Nita Lawson Orit & Mia Alon
Pat Branch Patti Rayne Peggy Jones & Parise Livanos Richard Fiock & Diego Castrejon Sanya Obsivac Sara Gilbert Tommy Johnson & Timothy Loo Valerie Madden
Guest column
The T-word hasn’t changed.
We have. Like it or not, words have power.
Jake Finney, Manager of the Center’s Anti-Violence Project
That’s why the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network’s “Think Before You Speak” campaign decries using the word “gay” in a derogatory way. Most of us acknowledge that the phrase “that’s so gay” is derogatory because it equates being gay with being stupid or strange. But what about the harm caused to trans* people—and especially trans youth—when people use the derogatory slur “tranny,” often equated with someone who’s a “mess” (as in the phrase “hot tranny mess” used by Project Runway star Christian Siriano). There have been a few knockdown, drag-out fights within the LGBTQ community over the use of the word “tranny.” On one side, trans activists and their allies contend that the “T-word” is a slur used to dehumanize trans people. Others, frequently gay men (including drag queens), fire back with arguments like: “It’s just a joke.” “Don’t be so sensitive/P.C.” Or my personal favorite: “It’s just a word.” Words matter. The T-word has a long history of being tossed around in both media and casual conversation. Some wonder why it’s “suddenly” a slur, but the truth is that it has always been derogatory. A Google search of “tranny” brings up 169 million hits—the vast majority from online porn that is also tied with the equally derogatory term “she-male.” When someone says “tranny,” they’re using a term frequently used to degrade women who happen to be trans. And this hurtful word isn’t only being used to deride trans adults but also trans youth, as my colleague Sara Train, who has led workshops in schools all over California, can attest.
The T-word has a long history of being tossed around in both media and casual conversation. Some wonder why it’s ‘suddenly’ a slur, but the truth is that it has always been derogatory.
Train is the coordinator of Project SPIN, a multi-agency, Center-led collaboration with the L.A. Unified School District to make schools safer and more welcoming for LGBT youth. She says that students hear just as many put-downs related to gender identity as to sexual orientation. Trans youth, or youth who otherwise don’t conform to social gender norms, are derided with terms such as “tranny” and “he-she.” They are even dehumanized by being called “it.” While there is no proven direct link between bullying and suicide, it must be noted that trans youth face a tremendous risk. Half will attempt suicide at least once before their 20th birthday. We should strive to make these young people’s lives better and make sure they have access to the support they need. And we shouldn’t excuse language that’s used to belittle and hurt them. So what’s changed is not that “tranny” is suddenly a slur; what’s changed is that trans people are finally feeling empowered enough to stand up and demand that they be treated with human dignity. It’s time to take “tranny” out of our lexicon.
This letter was adapted from an op-ed published on Advocate.com. * Throughout this issue, we’re using the term trans broadly to refer to those who identify as transgender, transsexual, genderqueer or otherwise don’t conform to social gender norms and identify as part of the trans community. The term is sometimes written with an asterisk—i.e. trans*—as a way of denoting its broad, inclusive nature.
MAY 2013
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group meetings at the village Social Networking Groups
Community Workshops
Bi-osphere* Explore and discuss the many shades of today’s diverse bisexual community Every 2nd & 4th Mon., 8 - 9:30 p.m. Canceled May 27, Memorial Day
Coming Out Workshop for Women Coming Out Workshop for Men Coming Out Workshop for Youth Three safe and nurturing workshops for anyone who is facing their own coming out process Call 877-OUT-4-LIFE (877-688-4543) for information and to register
The Village Readers An LGBT reading and discussion group. May 1, On Being Different: What it Means to be a Homosexual, by Merle Miller. June 5, The Uncensored Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde. Every 1st Wed., 7:30 - 9 p.m. Lesbian Chat* Great conversation for lesbians and bisexual women Every Mon., 8 - 9:30 p.m. Canceled, May 27, Memorial Day Lesbian 30+ Friday Night Chat Meet women outside of the bars Every 1st & 3rd Fri., 7:30 - 9 p.m Men’s Speakeasy* Great conversation for gay and bisexual men Every Tues., 8 - 9:30 p.m. Transgender Perceptions* Conversation and communitybuilding for transgender people Every Fri., 8 - 9:30 p.m.
Community Groups Bears L.A. 3rd Wed., 7 - 10 p.m. L.A. Leather Coalition 1st Thurs., 7 - 9 p.m. Positive Images HIV+ Men’s Forum Every Wed., 7 - 8:30 p.m. Call 323-860-7321 to RSVP Positive & Powerful Connect with other gay and bisexual men who have recently tested positive Every Thurs., 7 - 8:30 p.m. Call 323-860-7321 to RSVP Prostate Cancer Support Group Every 1st & 3rd Tues., 7 - 9 p.m. RSVP required Email ED_Brotherhood@yahoo.com or call 323-860-7340 S.M.A.R.T. Recovery Every Sat., 9:15-10:45 a.m. Gay Men’s Sexual Dysfunction Support Group If you’re a gay man facing any type of sexual dysfunction, this group is for you. Every 2nd & 4th Tues., 7 - 9 p.m. RSVP and short questionnaire required. Email GMSHF@yahoo.com or call 323-860-7340
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MAY 2013
Coming Out Workshop for Families A safe and compassionate space to learn how to support and accept a loved one who is “coming out” Visit lagaycenter.org/comingout for information
12-Step Groups Al-Anon Gay Focus Thurs., 7 - 8 p.m. Alcoholics Anonymous It’s Come to This Mon., 6:10 - 7:10 p.m. AA Happy Hour Tues. - Fri., 6:10 - 7:10 p.m. Women’s AA Wed., 8 - 9 p.m. One Page at a Time Thurs., 8 - 9 p.m. Gay & Lesbian CODA Tues., 8 - 9 p.m.
seniors services Tai Chi Every Mon., 10 -11 a.m. $6 suggested donation; no one turned away for lack of funds Call 323-860-5830 to RSVP. Women’s Lunch Every 1st & 3rd Mon., 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Women’s Chat, drop-in Mon., 1:30 - 3 p.m. Grief and Loss Support Group Every 2nd & 4th Tues., 1 - 2:30 p.m. Call 323-932-5414 for location MahJong Club Tues, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Comunidad Latina Every 2nd Wed., 3 - 4:30 p.m. Metropolitan Community Church-Los Angeles 4607 Prospect Ave. RSVP at 323-860-7369 Men’s Lunch Every 2nd & 4th Wed., 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Larry’s Computer Club Wed., 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Chair Yoga with Master Lakshmi Every 1st & 3rd Wed., 11 a.m. Cardio Fusion Workout with Bobby Wed., 11 a.m. $5 suggested donation
Crystal Meth Anonymous Sat., 9:10 - 10:10 a.m.
Men’s Drop-In Support Group Wed., 10 a.m. - noon with Steve
Debtors Anonymous Tues., 8 - 9 p.m.
Valley Social and Networking Group Thurs., 12:30 - 2 p.m. Call 323-860-5830 for location
Marijuana Anonymous Wed., 8:15 - 9:15 p.m. Sex & Love Addicts Anonymous Thurs., 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Sexual Compulsives Anonymous Mon., Tues., Wed., 8 - 9 p.m. Thurs., 8:15 - 9:15 p.m. Sat., noon - 1:15 p.m. NA—Heartbeat of Recovery Mon., 7 - 8:15 p.m. CMA—Let Go and Let God Fri., 8 - 9:30 p.m. OA Thurs., 7 - 8 p.m. UA – Artist in Prosperity Tues., 7 - 8 p.m. *group may not welcome late arrivals
Men’s In-Depth Support Group Closed group facilitated by Steve Call 323-860-7339 for more information Women’s In-Depth Support Group Closed group facilitated by Gabriela Call 323-860-7369 for more information Center Angels The Center Angels give back through various volunteer opportunities. Call 323-860-7367 for more information.
For more information about Seniors Services classes, please call 323-860-7322. Email seniors@lagaycenter.org or call 323-860-5830 to RSVP. Parking permits are required at The Village during office hours; please call ahead for information.
Unless stated otherwise all activities occur at The Village at Ed Gould Plaza,1125 N. McCadden Place
may calendar
advertising You can effectively reach more than 60,000 members of the coveted lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender market in Los Angeles! Advertise in the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center’s monthly newsletter Vanguard and gain unparalleled (and direct) access to this niche demographic.
may 18 The Center & Richard Gordon P.R. present:
An Intimate Evening with Julie Budd Renberg Theatre $35 general admission lagaycenter.org/theatre
contact info may 31 – june 16
General Information 323-993-7400
Legal Services 323-993-7670
AIDS/LifeCycle 323-860-7380
Mental Health 323-993-7669
Cultural Arts 323-860-7324
Pharmacy 323-993-7513
Renberg Theatre $20 general admission
Domestic Violence 323-860-5806
Room Rentals 323-860-7301
lagaycenter.org/theatre
Family Services 323-993-7430
Seniors Services 323-860-5830
Health Education & Prevention 323-860-7312
Social Networking Groups 323-860-7332
april 25 – june 1
HIV/STD Testing 323-860-5855
Village Box Office/ Tickets 323-860-7300 or lagaycenter.org/ boxoffice
Advocate & Gochis Galleries
Jeffrey Goodman Special Care Clinic 323-993-7500 Learning Curve 323-860-7332
vanguard staff Jim Key
Chief Public Affairs Officer
Kimiko Martinez
World Premiere:
Adelina Anthony and D’Lo in The Beast of Times
Art of Andrew Overtoom lagaycenter.org/art
center signature events may 18
sept. 6 - 8
sept. 14
An Evening with Women
Rapid Quest
Beach Classic
aneveningwithwomen.org
rapidquest.org
beachclassic.org
Associate Director of Marketing & Communications
oct. 19
nov. 9
Christopher Jones & Stevie St. John
Models of Pride
42nd Anniversary Gala & Auction
Vanguard Co-Editors
modelsofpride.org
anniversarygala.org
Jesse Finley Reed Creative Director
Manny Sanchez
Marketing Communications Coordinator
subscriptions Vanguard is published monthly by the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, a nonprofit corporation. 1625 N. Schrader Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028, Voice 323-993-7400 • TDD 323993-7698. Copyright 2013, Vanguard. All rights reserved. Subscription rate: free to membership. Printed in the USA. Publication of the name, quotation or photograph of a
person in articles or advertising is not an indication of the sexual orientation or the HIV status of such person. Moving, getting duplicate mailings or wish to be removed
from the Vanguard mailing list? Call us at 323-993-7620 or visit lagaycenter.org/newsletter.
MAY 2013
5
Opening Summer of 2013
LGBT Retirement Community
The community you’ve imagined...at last. Reserve your new home on our gorgeous ten acre campus with golf course, oak grove and mountain views in the heart of Sonoma County. From gourmet dining and concierge services to spa treatments and housekeeping, Fountaingrove Lodge offers more than just a home. Gourmet Dining Cocktail Lounge Wine Cave and Cellar
Private Movie Theater Onsite Care Center Fitness Center
Swimming Pool Pet Park Resident Gardens
Entrance Fees ranging from: $189,500 - $925,500 Monthly Fees starting at $3,395
4210 Thomas Lake Harris Dr. Santa Rosa, 95403
RCFE Pending
For more information or to schedule a tour call (707) 576-1101 or visit our website at fountaingrovelodge.com
707-576-1101
fountaingrovelodge.com
Celebrating the Golden Age Belmont Village residents enjoy exceptional hospitality, luxurious amenities and premier programs for health and well-being. It's no wonder they feel as good as they look!
S E N I OR L I V I N G
belmontvillage.com Burbank (818) 972-2405 Encino (818) 788-8870 Hollywood Hills (323) 874-7711 Rancho Palos Verdes (310) 377-9977 Westwood (310) 475-7501 Thousand Oaks (805) 496-9301
RCFE Lic 197603515, 197603848, 197605090, 198204246, 197608291, 565801746 Š 2013 Belmont Village, L.P. Vanguard_5_2013_golden.indd 1
3/29/13 3:35 PM
a
virtual reality On the (Google) Map
by Manny Sanchez
Just about everyone uses Google Maps. But did you know Maps also provides virtual photography tours of select locations? And now, two of the Center’s four locations are among them. While many people are familiar with our McDonald/Wright headquarters building, where we offer counseling, medical care, HIV/STD testing and more, the Center has three other facilities where it provides services and programs—two of which you can now visit from your computer or mobile device: The Village at Ed Gould Plaza and The Spot. Thanks to a collaboration with photographers Benjamin Price and Yesenia Higuera of The Hive, an L.A.-based production company that boasts clients like Amazon.com and EPSON America, these two facilities can now be explored through Google’s newest venture: Google Virtual Tours. This latest innovation, based on Google’s popular “Street View” feature, lets users explore interactive images of locations and their surroundings. With Google Virtual Tours, that technology is being used to give viewers an in-depth look inside the organizations and businesses on those streets. Now, online visitors can virtually experience The Village’s two theaters, art galleries, courtyard, meeting rooms and much more. They can also check out the Center’s West Hollywood facility for HIV/STD testing—The Spot—where it offers free, convenient and rapid testing. Though technology hasn’t given us the ability to offer HIV tests online or teleport us across continents (yet), Google’s Virtual Tour of our Village and Spot facilities gives people a sneak peek of the Center whether they’re down the street or across the globe.
Scan this
and take a tour now!
JUST BEING FRANK:
“I knew I found my charitable home,” new board member says. by Manny Sanchez
The interests of Frank Pond—the Center’s newest board member— have taken him to exotic destinations (like the rainforests of Borneo with the Orangutan Frank Pond Foundation International), and he’s always kept his finger on the pulse of progressive causes. As a trial lawyer and co-founder/owner of Pond North LLP, he represents Fortune 100 corporations and “Mom and Pop” establishments in jury trials dealing with environmental claims. As an advocate, Pond worked with the Clinton Administration on behalf of an ad hoc group of progressive and LGBT organizations. He was on the forefront of the fight to allow members of the armed services to be openly gay, serving as a volunteer legal director for the group Campaign for Military Service. “After touring the Center and meeting with Lorri Jean, I knew I’d found my charitable home,” Pond says. “I’m so proud and honored to serve on the board of an organization that’s doing such incredible work for so many people.” In his spare time, Pond writes about his passions—travel, politics and wine—for progressivepulse.com.
Did you know …
By including the Center in your estate plan, you can help people like you get the life-changing—and life-saving—services they need. Join our Circle of Life by adding the Center to your will or trust and your gift—large or small—will continue to make a difference in the quality of life for LGBT people for years to come. For more information, to make a gift or for confidential advice about any aspect of your estate planning, please contact Nellie Sims, Director of Planned Giving, at 323-993-7691 or nsims@lagaycenter.org.
MAY 2013
7
On a roll in role of a lifetime ‌
Actress, yogi and trapeze-artist-in-training Traci Dinwiddie’s amazing success raising money for Center HIV/AIDS-related services shows that fundraising is nothing to come Undone over. By Stevie St. John & Christopher Jones Photos provided by Chris Panagakis
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MAY 2013
Traci Dinwiddie, star of lesbian film Elena Undone, is AIDS/LifeCycle’s most successful female fundraiser ever. With more than $70,000 raised at press time, she’s this year’s secondhighest fundraiser. (The highest is Tom Swan, the ride’s No. 1 fundraiser of all time; Swan had exceeded $110,000 at press time.) And first-time rider Dinwiddie isn’t slowing down in the final weeks before June 2, when she and 2,000+ other riders will begin the seven-day bike ride from San Francisco to L.A. She’s set her sights on raising $100,000! Vanguard sat down with Dinwiddie to ask her about her lofty fundraising goal. Q: We were so excited to hear you were doing the ride because we loved you in Elena Undone! We already know you’re a talented actress—but we’d love to hear what your life is like when you’re not on camera. A: Well, I’ve jokingly referred to myself as a parttime badass and full-time fruitcake. By trade, I’m an actress (often playing badasses). The real me, however, is a silly nut who enjoys a good laugh more than anything. My off-camera days are filled with aerial training on the trapeze bar, making ridiculous “Moustache Monday” videos (which you can see at youtube.com/user/tracidinwiddie), lots of outdoor adventures, and writing. I’m developing a web series that is jam-packed with good-natured humor and a touch of heroism to boot. Q: All AIDS/LifeCycle riders (and the volunteer Roadies!) are heroes in our eyes. We’re really grateful to the fundraising superstars like you! What’s your secret? A: Perhaps it is beginner’s luck? Honestly, I have no secret. Just passion for the cause. I’m learning how to ask BIG without any apologies or hesitation. I’ve also got the most amazing cyber tribe of “T-bugs,” which is an affectionate term I use to refer to my fans. They have supported me every step of the way. When I send out a call to action, they are the first to step up, contribute and spread the word.
A: I ride for so many reasons. I ride in honor of many friends who’ve lost their lives to AIDS. I ride for my sober sisters and brothers who are living with HIV. I ride to contribute to my community. I ride for the good work that the Center is doing to help those living with HIV/AIDS. I ride to bring awareness to this seemingly forgotten disease. I ride to help fight stigma against HIVpositive people. Q: What are you most looking forward to about the ride? A: It’s already been spectacular with all of the new friends I’m making on training rides and at AIDS/LifeCycle events. Still, I’m eager to feel the electric excitement of the rollout on the first day of the ride.
Traci Dinwiddie
I look forward to those completely unplanned but absolutely perfect moments that all of my seasoned AIDS/LifeCycle buddies have been telling me about!
For more information about AIDS/LifeCycle or to make a donation, visit AIDSLifeCycle.org. You can make a general donation or support any rider’s fundraising, including Dinwiddie’s.
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NOW Antigone Rising Comic Of The Month Queerly Questioning IAN LE SB• NO. 10 VOL.
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Exclusive Interview
Suze Orman Gets Candid about DOMA, Family and Prop 8
I’m so appreciative of each one of the hundreds of people who have donated, whether they give $25, $250 or more. Every dollar makes a difference! Q: People do AIDS/LifeCycle for so many different reasons. What’s your motivation to do the ride and to raise so much money for the Center?
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MAY 2013
9
PRESCRIBING SENSITIVE, QUALITY CARE FOR THE TRANS COMMUNITY By Stevie St. John
Photographs by Jesse Finley Reed
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Dr. Maddie Deutsch (“Dr. Maddie” to patients and colleagues), Director of the Center’s Transgender Health Program, with patient Gina Bigham.
MAY 2013
idespread discrimination & ignorance among doctors is a bitter pill to swallow for trans people seeking care. That’s why the Center is dedicated to offering topquality care for trans patients. Living in a body that’s out of sync with one’s gender identity can be extremely distressing; in some cases it contributes to crippling depression and an elevated risk of suicide. Not every person who is trans* wants to physically transition to the other gender, but for those who do, the need for medical support is often desperate. Medical treatments for those transitioning from male-tofemale or from female-to-male can include hormone therapy as well as surgery on the face, chest and/or genitals. Despite the trans community’s heightened need for medical care (at least for those taking hormones), trans people face tremendous obstacles in getting quality care (see sidebar). Even getting routine primary care— not just trans-specific services—is a challenge because of ignorance and transphobia among medical providers. The doctor is in (the Center) Since its founding, the Center has provided trans-specific social services, including transgender support and discussion groups. With this history of serving the trans community and a reputation for offering leading edge medical care, the Center took note of the lack of affordable trans-specific medical care and took action. In 2009, the Center partnered with Dr. Maddie Deutsch (“Dr. Maddie” to patients and colleagues), one of the nation’s leading experts in transgender health care, to launch the Transgender Health Program in 2009. The program offers: • Primary medical care • Hormone therapy supervision for those taking estrogen or testosterone • Post-surgical care for those who’ve had genital surgery Most insurance plans are accepted, and fees for those without insurance are on a sliding scale based on income. “I feel so blessed that I get to see the preeminent hormone therapy doctor in the country—I get to call her my doctor,” says Gina Bigham, one of about 500 trans people who rely on the Center for medical care. “I was taken aback at first by the level of care I receive from Dr. Maddie. I don’t just mean the health care—I mean she cares. You know she’s on your side because she’s been through it.” As a trans woman herself, Deutsch is dedicated to making top-quality care available to her community. In addition to caring for patients, Deutsch spends time training other medical professionals on caring for trans patients. She is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of California, San Francisco, where she is also the Clinical Lead for the Center of Excellence for Transgender Health. Deutsch has given lectures all over the country, and she will present a TED Talk this month in Redondo Beach. The doctor is out (on the Web) Though the Center strives to make the Transgender Health Program as efficient as possible, there is no way it can meet the enormous
OBSTACLES TO ACCESSING QUALITY TRANS CARE DI SCR I M I N ATI ON A 2008 Transgender Law Center (TLC) survey found that 33% were denied surgery and 27% were denied hormones. 1 in 10 were denied basic primary health care.
A DE A RTH OF SE RVICES Though not all doctors deliberately discriminate against trans patients, few have the knowledge and training to provide quality care that’s transsensitive. In a National Transgender Discrimination Survey,a full half of respondents said they had to educate their health care providers.
E CON OM I C CH A LL ENGES Few insurance plans cover medical care related to transitioning. Additionally, due to rampant employment discrimination against trans people, many don’t have jobs or health insurance.
L A CK OF I N FOR MAT ION Many trans people don’t know where to turn for reliable, medically accurate information about hormones, surgery and other medical care.
R E STR I CTI ON S In many cases, doctors require trans patients to meet certain requirements that many find problematic.
* Throughout this article, the word trans is used to refer broadly to people who are transgender, transsexual, gender queer or otherwise do not conform to social norms with regard to gender identity. Sometimes used as an abbreviation for the word transgender, trans (often written with an asterisk: trans*) is now being used more often as an umbrella term that includes all facets of a vibrant and diverse community.
(continued on page 12)
MAY 2013
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The L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center’s broad array of services for the entire LGBT community includes many programs developed specifically to meet the needs of trans people, including: • The Transgender Health Program, which provides primary medical care as well as trans-specific medical services. • The Transgender Economic Empowerment Project, which helps trans people hone their job skills and find work with trans-friendly employers. • Transgender Perceptions, a peer-led conversation group for trans people.
-Gina Bigham, Transgender Health Program patient
• Professionally led support groups for those who are questioning their gender identity, thinking about transitioning or taking the first steps toward transition.
unmet need for quality trans health care. Unfortunately, new patients face a wait of about nine months before their first appointment with Deutsch. “We’re doing everything we can, but the need is overwhelming,” Deutsch says. “The whole system needs to change. Insurance needs to change. Right now, a lot of the care trans people need isn’t covered, which means there is no financial incentive for doctors to care for them. When that changes, more doctors will offer those services.” In order to care for as many patients as possible, the Center created two orientation videos for people considering hormone therapy. In one video, Deutsch explains the physical effects of testosterone for trans men (also known as female-to-male or FTMs). In the other, she addresses the effects of estrogen for trans women (also known as male-to-female or MTFs). These videos provide viewers with the same information they’d get from Dr. Maddie herself during an appointment. By preparing patients beforehand, the Center helps make the appointments efficient and allows more people to seek care. And by sharing the videos on the Center’s YouTube channel (LAGayCenter), the Center is providing trans people around the world with medically accurate information that’s difficult to find elsewhere. For the trans community, leading-edge quality medical care and reliable medical information are just what the doctor ordered. For more information about the Transgender Health Program, visit lagaycenter.org/transhealth.
• Trans Pride L.A., one of the country’s largest trans pride celebrations
For more information about the Center’s services for the trans community, visit lagaycenter.org/transgender.
If you’re considering or starting hormones as part of your transition process, you can learn what changes to expect by watching the Center’s “Introduction to Hormone Therapy” videos with renowned trans health specialist Dr. Maddie Deutsch. To watch the videos, visit youtube.com/lagaycenter.
QUIZ: {
TEST YOUR TRANS KNOWLEDGE
Can you match these words to the correct blank? SEX GENDER IDENTITY TRANS MAN INTERSEX
SEXUAL ORIENTATION GENDERQUEER TRANS WOMAN
1. Your ______________________describes the gender(s) of people to whom you are attracted physically and/or emotionally. 2. Your ______________________describes your internal sense of your gender. 3. Most babies are labeled male or female at birth; this label is a person’s birth ______________________. 4. Some people who do not identify as either female or male, or who identify as both male and female, may describe themselves as ______________________. 5. A person born with physical/biological characteristics that are both male and female is ______________________. 6. A ______________________is a person who was labeled male at birth and whose gender identity is female. 7. A ______________________is a person who was labeled female at birth and whose gender identity is male. 4. Gender queer 5. Intersex 6. Trans woman
7. Trans man
MAY 2013
• TransUnionLA, a Facebook page and Twitter account for news and information about L.A.-area trans events.
1. Sexual orientation 2. Gender identity 3. Sex
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CENTER SERVICES FOR THE TRANS COMMUNITY
ANSWERS:
I was taken aback at first by the level of care I receive from Dr. Maddie. I don’t just mean the health care—I mean she cares. You know she’s on your side because she’s been through it.”
PHOTOS BY MANNY SANCHEZ & STEFANI KEENAN
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An Evening Benefiting Homeless Youth The March event honoring Amy Pascal and Ralph Rucci raised $1.2 million for the Center’s homeless youth services!
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1. 2013 Icon Award honoree Amy Pascal, co-chairman of Sony Pictures Entertainment, with director Roland Emmerich 2. Heather Graham and Julie Bowen 3. Michael Turchin and Lance Bass 4. Rochelle Fredstone and Juan Carlos 5. Neil Patrick Harris with husband David Burtka and Center Chief of Staff Darrel Cummings 6. Lenworth Poyser, Youth Service Award recipient 7. Visionary Award honoree Ralph Rucci with event co-chair Kathy Kloves 8. Seth Rogan 9. Jane Lynch, Tabatha Coffey and Christos Garkinos. 10. Jason Vasquez and Kin W. Cheng of Wells Fargo 10 MAY 2013
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Photography Series CAMERA TECH & PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDAMENTALS Digital Photography Primer
This intense and information-filled course is specifically designed to help photographers master their cameras and begin developing the creative skills necessary to show off your talents as a photographer. Instructor: Dali Sadhana 4-Week Course Tues. May 28 - Jun. 18, 7 - 9:30 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $99
This course is free with all Package Enrollments (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/27)
Performance
EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY YOUR WORLD PREMIERE AT THE COMEDY STORE Stand-Up Comedy Workshop
FLAMENCO & CLASSICAL GUITAR Stylized Guitar for Beginners
Topics include: joke-writing, character creation, improv skills and stage persona. At the end, perform your own comedic stand-up piece at The Comedy Store!
Whether you know how to play traditional guitar or you’ve never held a guitar in your hands, this class will teach you all the basics of creating beautiful music. Course includes a mix of classical and flamenco playing styles.
Instructor: Adam Barnhardt
Instructor: Darryl Denning
6-Week Course Thurs., May 2 - Jun. 6, 7 - 9:30 p.m. The Comedy Store performance: 6/9
6-Week Course Wed., May 8 - Jun. 12, 7:30 - 9 p.m.
Enrollment Fee: $120
(Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/7)
Enrollment Fee: $99
(Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/1)
VOICEOVER TALENT
Introduction to Voiceover for Beginners Learn V.O. skills and how to present yourself to casting and talent agents. Held in a recording studio and includes actual mic time. Instructor: M.J. Lallo Workshop Tues., May 21, 7 - 10 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $49 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/20) Course meets off-site.
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MAY 2013
GUITAR FOR BEGINNERS Introduction to Guitar
Learn the fundamentals of guitar in a fun and easy-going environment. Covers all the basics, including: basic scale, chord theory and open chords. Students must provide guitar (acoustic or electric welcome). Instructor: Marc Flores 6-Week Course Wed., June 5 - July 10, 7 - 8:30 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $99
(Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 6/4)
Photography Skills for Capturing Live Events Develop the skills to get beautiful, high-quality images during live public events. This fun and fast-paced course will teach you how to get great images in unweildy and unpredictable environments. Instructors: Mary Grace McKernan 2-Part Course Sat., May 4, 5 - 10:30 p.m. & May 11, 1 - 3 p.m. Enrollment includes access to a large public event.
Enrollment Fee: $99
(Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/3)
FLESH PHOTOGRAPHY
Photographing the Human Body This fun course will teach you different and creative ways of capturing the beauty of the human body through the lens of your digital camera.
Instructor: TBA 4-Part Course
Tues., May 28 - Jun. 18, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $129 (Enrollment Closes at 5 p.m. on 5/27)
Creativity & Fun
Health & Wellness
Wealth & Security
WRITING FOR THE STAGE
AWAKENING
YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU
Learn the craft of playwriting by reading and discussing each student’s work. Learn structure, character, conflict, climax, resolution and more. All experience levels welcome.
Start your weekends by opening your eyes, your heart and your soul while centering your mind and body.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to manage or protect your assets. Learn the basics of estate planning and how to transfer property at death and plan for retirement.
Instructor: Richard Steel
Weekly Class
An Intensive Playwriting Workshop
6-Week Course Sat., May 11 - Jun. 15, 1 - 4 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $99
Saturday Morning Meditation
Instructors: Marc Caldwell Every Saturday Morning, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Free (donations are welcome) Walk-up, no RSVP necessary.
Hands-on Musical Theatre Workshop
Do you have an idea for a stage musical? This fun hands-on workshop will help you transform your idea into the musical of your dreams. Topics will include story development, structure, composition, song/lyric writing and many other important elements you will need to bring your story to life. Instructor: Mark Saltzman
6-Week Course
Weds., May 8 - Jun. 12, 7-9:30 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $99 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/7)
LIFE DRAWING Capturing the Beautiful Human Body This fun and popular course is perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike who are interested in developing their artistic talents. Each session features a live nude model. Students must provide their own drawing pad and drawing media. Instructor: Ron Anderegg 4-Week Course Tues., May 21 - Jun. 11, 7 - 9:30 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $69
(Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/20)
Instructors: Christine Wilson
Workshop
Tues., May 21, 7-8:30 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $25 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/20)
(Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/10)
WORDS & MUSIC
Managing Your Estate Planning Issues
Technology LEARN ADOBE PHOTOSHOP EXT. Levels I & II
Photoshop is the graphic world’s most powerful tool. Learn how to retouch, create composites, paint, color correct and much more. Instructor: Dali Sadhana Level 1 Thurs., May 23 & 30, 7 - 9:30 p.m. Level 2 Thurs., Jun. 6 & 13, 7 - 9:30 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $89 Each Level Combine Levels I & II Enrollment Fee: $149 (No Additional Discounts) (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. 5/22)
World Traveler VOULEZ-VOUS PARLER FRANCIAS?
Conversational French for Beginners Learn basic vocabulary, casual conversation and simple grammar constructs that will be helpful to travelers and connoisseurs alike. Instructor: Nadine Cohen 6-Week Course Tues., May 14 - Jun. 18, 7:30 - 9 p.m. Enrollment Fee: $120 (Enrollment closes at 5 p.m. on 5/13) MAY 2013
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L.A. GAY & LESBIAN CENTER
McDonald/Wright Building 1625 N. Schrader Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028
FR EE EV EN T! LGBTQ and UNDOCUMENTED
Coming Out for Immigration Reform Thousands of undocumented youth are living in the shadows throughout Southern California. Come hear some of their stories and learn how they not only are leading the immigration reform movement but are poised to become leaders of the LGBT movement!
Tuesday, May 14, 7:30 pm L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center The Village at Ed Gould Plaza Renberg Theatre
For more information and to RSVP, visit lagaycenter.org/bigqueerconvo Moving, getting duplicate mailings or wish to be removed from the Vanguard mailing list? Call 323-993-7620 or visit lagaycenter.org/newsletter.