ASan Francisco AIDS activist was alarmed when he received a letter from the Social Security Administration. The agency informed him he’d been overpaid by over $200,000 and should refund the government within 30 days.
Paul Aguilar, a 61-year-old gay man who works as the long-term survivor community liaison for aging services for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, told the Bay Area Reporter he’d been receiving Social Security disability since 2005 after his AIDS diagnosis.
“I have worked over the years but faithfully reported my earnings as I was instructed, including being part of California’s ‘working disabled program,’” he stated, adding that he took his current employment in 2022 thinking that he’d be able to continue receiving benefits while working.
The California Working Disabled Program allows people meeting the federal definition of disability and who are at a net income level at 250% of the federal poverty line to receive Medi-Cal health coverage. For a single person, the federal poverty line amounted to an annual income of $13,590 in 2022, $14,580 in 2023, and $15,060 in 2024.
According to the Social Security Administration, as of last year, someone making $1,550 a month or more may stop receiving Social Security disability benefits.
Aguilar stated that in 2024, he averaged $2,200 a month in wages. His rent at Marty’s Place without a subsidy is $1,200 a month, and so he stated that the fact Social Security has stopped paying him has impacted him “significantly,” as his April check did not come.
As the B.A.R. previously reported, the Marty’s Place Affordable Housing Corporation, or MPAH, is in a legal battle with Mission Action, over the house at 1165 Treat Avenue where Aguilar lives. Mission Action is trying to remove MPAH from the site so it can lease rooms directly, while MPAH claims Mission Action has no authority to do so. The case is set for trial in September.
See page 8 >>
Butler guilty of voluntary manslaughter
by John Ferrannini
Transgender sex worker Leniyah Butler was convicted Monday of voluntary manslaughter by a federal jury in the shooting death of a man who had picked her up in the Tenderloin with the intent of paying for sex. The jury deliberated a little over two days and found that Butler was not guilty of the more serious seconddegree murder charge.
Butler, 21, shot Hamza Walupupu, 32, just before dawn November 12, 2023 in Crissy Field after he had picked her up in a Hyundai Accent in the Tenderloin district. Butler had pleaded not guilty. The trial started March 17. The verdict was reached on March 31, which is Transgender Day of Visibility. The jury and alternates appeared to consist of 10 men and six women.
Seeking justice for Heklina
Nearly two years after the death in London of drag icon Heklina, protesters held a candlelight vigil March 31 to draw attention to the sluggish response of the London Metropolitan Police in investigating her death. As the Bay Area Reporter noted in an online story, the vigil took place in between
two “angry” drag shows at The Stud and Oasis. London authorities revealed that Heklina, the drag persona of Stefan Grygelko who was found dead in a London flat April 3, 2023, had drugs in her system, but an official cause of death has not been released.
CA community college halts naming building for Sarria
by Matthew S. Bajko
Despite Victor Valley College halting the proposal to name its new LGBTQ+ Student Resource Center after gay California Hall of Fame inductee José Julio Sarria, scholarships designated in his honor will be given out to five students of the community college in San Bernardino County. And the International Court System that Sarria founded will sponsor a prom for students this year.
Leaders of the drag philanthropic organization, which Sarria had launched in San Francisco in 1965, had told the Bay Area Reporter last week that they would no longer be funding any scholarships after the college leadership said the resource center could not be called The José Sarria Pride Center. The José Julio Sarria/Nicole M. Ramirez International Scholarship & Education Fund had pledged to annually award $8,000 for scholarships.
2017 Media Kit 0 a
But over the weekend they decided to uphold an initial commitment of presenting five $500 scholarships to be awarded to students based on an essay they had been asked to write about Sarria. They made the decision so as not to punish the students who had supported seeing the new resource center be named after the late drag queen and out Latino veteran who left a lasting impact on politics and the queer community.
The court reconvened about 2:45 p.m. for the reading of the verdict. Though the jury reached the voluntary manslaughter conclusion, jurors did not have to agree on a particular theory of how to get there, of which there were two: voluntary manslaughter in a sudden quarrel or passion, or voluntary manslaughter by means of imperfect self-defense; the latter of which meaning that a defendant had acted in the belief they needed self-defense but such a belief wasn’t reasonable.
See page 9 >>
The Los Angeles Blade covers Los Angeles and California news, politics, opinion, arts and entertainment and features national and international coverage from the Blade’s award-winning reporting team. Be part of this exciting publication serving LGBT Los Angeles from the team behind the Washington Blade, the nation’s first LGBT newspaper. From the freeway to the Beltway we’ve got you covered.
Representatives of the fund, court system, and its Los Angeles court also plan to attend the opening ceremony Friday, April 4, for the new facility to show their support of the college’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance. Its members had voted for the posthumous honor for Sarria, who died in 2013.
“I want to thank them for their courage and their knowledge of José. That they would vote out of all our great – and there are so many LGBTQ icons – they chose José,” said Nicole Murray Ramirez, who as the Queen Mother I of the Americas and Nicole the Great is the titular head of the court system. “My understanding is the students are mostly students of color, so I want to go there and thank them and let them know that I appreciate that. We all appreciate their respect and knowledge of José.”
Important to still attend
José Sarria Foundation chair and founder Gene Brake told the B.A.R. that he had spoken with Murray Ramirez on Sunday about it being important for them to still attend the opening ceremony not only to support the GSA members but also to tell Sarria’s story. Brake, a gay man who lives in Palm Springs, will be bringing to the event various items from Sarria’s life, including one of Sarria’s widow weeds, or black mourning attire, he wore during annual pilgrimages to the gravesite of the Emperor Norton in Colma, California, an eccentric San Franciscan from the 1850s who was a genesis for the court system.
See page 9 >>
Long-term AIDS survivor Paul Aguilar is fighting a finding from the Social Security Administration that it has overpaid his benefit.
Rick Gerharter
An LGBTQ+ Student Resource Center at Victor Valley College in San Bernardino County won’t be named for José Julio Sarria, but the Imperial Court System that he founded will present scholarships to students.
Courtesy CA Hall of Fame/CA Museum
Gooch
Charges filed in beating outside Castro Theatre
by John Ferrannini
Felony charges have been filed against a man in connection with the brutal beating of a San Francisco LGBTQ neighborhood bar employee in front of the Castro Theatre, the San Francisco District Attorney’s office stated.
Victor Barrios, 34, was located in South San Francisco, in San Mateo County, March 27 and was arrested on an outstanding assault warrant, San Francisco Police Department Officer Paulina Henderson stated to the Bay Area Reporter March 28.
Barrios posted bail, according to a spokesperson for the San Francisco District Attorney’s office. He is charged with felony assault without a firearm, the spokesperson said April 1.
As the B.A.R. reported two weeks ago,
Castro Theatre. San Francisco police said March 28 that an arrest has been made.
a GoFundMe was set up for the victim of the March 9 attack. He’s identified as Tony, a doorman at The Mix on 18th Street. The GoFundMe has raised $26,168 of a $60,000 goal as of press time.
The GoFundMe organizer didn’t return a request for comment for this report.
Cleve Jones, a longtime gay rights and AIDS activist, said the victim, Tony, is a personal friend.
“Tony is a friend of mine and I encourage people to support him,” Jones said. “They really need the money.”
The attack took place at approximately 7:41 p.m. that Sunday evening.
“Officers arrived on scene and located an adult male seated on the ground and suffering from injuries,” stated SFPD spokesperson Kwanjai Laokwansathitaya in a March 14 email. “Officers rendered aid and paramedics arrived on scene to render aid as well. The victim was transported to a local hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.”
The attack was unprovoked, according to police.
“During a preliminary investigation, officers learned that the suspect physically attacked the victim without provocation. After assaulting the victim, the suspect fled on foot southbound on Castro Street towards 18th Street,” Laokwansathitaya stated.
KGO-TV aired a video March 12 of the incident that was taken by a bystander and shared with the local ABC affiliate.
An unnamed eyewitness said, “I saw someone being brutally assaulted, kicked, punched; it was like the tail end of the assault, blood everywhere.”
The local television station’s report also does not name the victim, or his partner.
The partner told KGO’s JR Stone that Tony will need to see an eye and ear specialist going forward after suffering multiple skull fractures.
The victim had bounced three people
out of the bar earlier that day, one of whom lost teeth after biting the bar employee’s finger, the partner said.
“This unprovoked act of violence left him with severe injuries, including several skull fractures, requiring immediate hospitalization, emergency medical care, and ongoing treatment from specialists,” the GoFundMe states. “Tony is a kind and caring person who did not deserve this horrific attack. As he navigates this painful and uncertain time, we want to rally around him and ensure that he doesn’t have to bear this financial hardship alone.”
“Although an arrest has been made, this remains an open and active investigation,” Henderson stated. “Anyone with information is asked to contact the SFPD at 415-575-4444 or text a tip to TIP411 and begin the message with SFPD.” t
SF leaders endorse transit funding measures
by Matthew S. Bajko
Leaders in San Francisco are backing state-led efforts to funnel more money toward financially struggling transit agencies that have yet to fully recover from a drop off in ridership related to the COVID pandemic. Legislators in Sacramento are pushing a one-time infusion of cash for public agencies across the state as well as sign off on a regional ballot measure to raise money for Bay Area systems.
As the Bay Area Reporter’s online Political Notes column noted, state Senators Jesse Arreguín (D-Berkeley) is working with gay legislative leaders Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) and Assemblymember Mark González (D-Los Angeles) to secure $2 billion in funding over the next two years for transit agencies throughout California. Wiener and Arreguín are also jointly working to pass Senate Bill 63 to allow for a regional transit revenue ballot measure to be put before Bay Area voters next year.
If approved, it would see a 1/2-cent sales tax be imposed in San Francisco, Contra Costa, and Alameda counties, with the tax in San Francisco up to 1 cent to provide additional support for the city’s Muni transit system. San Mateo and Santa Clara counties have until July 31 to opt in to the tax measure.
According to the legislators, the exact rates for the tax to be imposed must be
negotiated and finalized by July 31. By that date this summer transit agencies and local governments must also submit a spending plan for how they would allocate the revenue generated by the measure.
The legislation would also require improved financial efficiency and better coordination by the transit agencies funded via the tax. BART, Muni, Caltrain, and AC Transit would be required to comply with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s Regional Network Management policies and programs, and the regional agency would need to independently review each transit agency to identify cost-saving measures for the systems. Each transit system would then have to submit plans for implementing the suggested measures.
“This measure will shore up our public transportation systems, allowing them to build on recent improvements to deliver safe, clean, and reliable service, while improving financial efficiency and coordi-
nation between systems,” stated Wiener in rolling out the details for the 2026 ballot measure Monday at the Daly City BART station.
The next day the San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously passed queer District 9 Supervisor Jackie Fielder’s resolution urging Governor Gavin Newsom and state legislators to allocate the $2 billion funding requests for transit agencies being made by Wiener and Arreguín. As it was submitted last week, it did not address the ballot measure proposal, though city leaders have expressed support it.
“Public transit is the backbone of San Francisco’s economy and an essential service for hundreds of thousands of people,” said Fielder. “Without this critical funding, we face severe service reductions that will hurt workers, seniors, and families, and set back our city’s recovery. I am proud of my colleagues for sending a clear message to the governor and our state Legislature.”
While it is making adjustments to bus routes and taking other measures to plug a $50 million hole in its current budget, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency has said it faces a looming $320 million budget shortfall in coming fiscal years. It has caused concern among local transit advocates and riders that the agency will make even more drastic cuts to Muni routes in order to balance its budget.
SFMTA Director of Transportation
Julie Kirschbaum has warned that new sources of revenue are needed in order to avoid taking more drastic cost-cutting measures to Muni service.
“We’re doing everything we can to be efficient and prudent with the resources we have, but the ongoing economic impact of the pandemic is still severe – for the SFMTA and for transit agencies throughout California,” she stated. “Assistance from the state would help make sure we can keep providing the Muni services San Franciscans need and deserve.”
At its March 26 meeting, the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee adopted a resolution that also supports seeing the state award the $2 billion to public transit systems. It also urged “Bay Area transportation agencies to seek additional and creative funding sources, including but not limited to joint development, road use pricing, and/or taxation.”
Authored by bisexual DCCC fourth vice chair Emma Hare, the resolution was titled “Condemning Funding Prejudice At The U.S. Department of Transportation And Urging Bay Area Transportation Agencies to Seek Additional Funding Sources” as it also condemned as homophobic a Trump administration proposal to have the U.S. Department of Transportation give higher preference in its funding allocations to metro areas with higher-than-average marriage and birth rates. Doing so would harm San
Francisco, as it routinely lags behind such national metrics.
Gay DCCC members Mike Chen, Joe Sangirardi, Peter Gallotta, and Michael Nguyen signed on as co-sponsors of the resolution. Wiener, a former local party chair who has a DCCC seat due to his legislative position, had told the B.A.R. he would vote for it prior to the March 26 meeting.
An aide to Fielder told the B.A.R., when asked if she supported the local party resolution, that, “she doesn’t typically weigh in on DCCC resolutions, however, this one is aligned with our resolution.”
It needed at least 17 yes votes among the 32 DCCC members to be adopted. The resolution netted 28 votes, with no one voting against it and state Controller Malia Cohen abstaining via her proxy.
With Hare overseas for her honeymoon, SFMTA Citizen Advisory Council vice chair Chris Arvin stood in as her proxy and spoke in support of the resolution. Having organized a protest against Muni cuts last week, Arvin stressed that the 500,000 average daily trips on the system represent people who could be stranded without their bus or subway service, as they may be unable to afford other means of transit.
“Supporting public transit, especially when it is under threat, is key to our party’s values,” said Arvin, who is nonbinary. t
Federal health department slashes CDC, NIH staff
by Liz Highleyman
In what is being described as a “bloodbath,” the Department of Health and Human Services has dramatically reduced personnel at the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health, Food and Drug Administration, and other federal health agencies. The cuts are expected to include 10,000 people. Word of the cuts came early Tuesday
morning, April 1, shortly before Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. swore in new NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya and new FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary. Some staffers first learned of the news when their badges no longer allowed them to access their offices, followed by emails saying they were placed on administrative leave.
The changes affect many of the agencies’ operations, including the CDC’s National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and Tuberculosis Prevention, the Division of Reproductive Health, and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, as well as NIH’s Office of Science Policy and the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, according to a spreadsheet of cuts reported by staffers and shared with reporters. Administrative functions, such as public communication, appear to be hit especially hard.
High-level staff cuts include NCHHSTP director Dr. Jonathan Mermin and Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, who succeeded Dr. Anthony Fauci as head of NIAID. Both reportedly declined reassignment to positions with the Indian Health Service in Alaska.
“In a matter of just a couple days, we are losing our nation’s ability to prevent HIV,” stated Carl Schmid, a gay man who’s executive director of the
HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute. “The expertise of the staff, along with their decades of leadership, has now been destroyed and cannot be replaced. We will feel the impacts of these decisions for years to come and it will certainly, sadly, translate into an increase in new HIV infections and higher medical costs.”
On March 27, Kennedy announced a “dramatic restructuring” of DHHS that will involve 10,000 layoffs in addition to another 10,000 people who accepted buyouts or early retirement. According to the Wall Street Journal, which first reported the news, the FDA is expected to lose 3,500 full-time employees (about 19% of its workforce), the CDC will lose 2,400 people (about 18%), and the NIH will lose 1,200 people (about 6%).
DHHS’s 28 divisions will be reduced to 15, with some functions coming under a new Administration for a Healthy America. The cuts are projected to save about $1.8 billion annually.
“We are streamlining HHS to make our agency more efficient and more effective,” Kennedy wrote in a post on X “We will eliminate an entire alphabet soup of departments, while preserving their core functions by merging them into a new organization called the Administration for a Healthy America, or AHA. This overhaul will improve the health of the entire nation.”
But clinicians, researchers, and advocates fear that the cuts will decimate public health, patient care, and crucial medical research.
“There is no other way to say this: Today is the day the CDC was essentially dissolved,” Dr. Boghuma Titanji of Emory School of Medicine wrote on BlueSky. “What’s left is a husk. People will die as a direct result.”
Cuts at the federal level will have an effect on state and local health efforts.
The DHHS regional office in San Francisco is slated to close by late April or early May, Politico first reported.
The office, which manages Medicaid, Medicare, HIV, and other programs for several states and Native American tribes, is expected to move to Denver.
“This shortsighted office closure would lead to critical service slowdowns for San Franciscans to get the resources they need and detrimental impacts to our public health response capabilities – all in the name of so-called ‘government efficiency,” Congressmember Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) said in a statement.
“Make no mistake: the reported plans to restructure HHS and close the San Francisco regional office would directly harm our most vulnerable communities and make America sicker.” t
Office of Shelley S. Feinberg
San Francisco leaders support funding measures for Bay Area transit agencies.
Cynthia Laird
A screenshot of a video shared with KGO-TV shows a victim of a beating March 9 in front of the
Screenshot via KGO-TV news segment.
Experience guides Brit’s trans and DEI consulting firm
by JL Odom
Five years ago, Tate Smith, then a legal secretary, decided it was time to share something about himself at his workplace, Clifford Chance, a major law firm in London.
“I was like, ‘OK, I haven’t spoken publicly since I was in high school, and I don’t know if I can do it.’ But then I just kind of thought more about all of these things that were happening to me,” Smith told the Bay Area Reporter in a Zoom interview.
Smith, 25, was relatively new to the firm and had begun hormone replacement therapy (HRT) eight months prior. Physical changes were well underway, and his voice had deepened. His colleagues viewed and treated him as a man.
“I just wanted to get on with the job. I didn’t want my transition to consume me,” he said.
Smith sought to disclose his transness in a way that not only suited him but also garnered receptiveness and empathy. So when a queer friend in the LGBTQ network at the law firm suggested doing a “lunch and learn” session, he was on board.
“I thought, ‘I’m not going to do a training session. I’m not going to do a keynote. I’m not going to tell my sob story. I am going to share my lived experience and educate people on my unique perspective on masculinity, and that’s what I’ve done ever since,’” Smith said.
Coming out as transgender and speaking publicly about his transition at that initial lunch and learn, titled “What It’s Like to Be Trans,” was a light bulb moment for Smith in terms of embarking on a new career path.
He’s now the director of Tate Smith Consulting, a London-based firm focused on providing companies with trans and diversity, equity, and inclusion guidance.
“It’s evolved from just speaking about trans awareness to now speaking about lots of other different things, because I naturally fall into different strands under DEI,” he noted.
The firm, which he founded in May 2023, offers services such as fireside chats, policy reviews, panel discussions, and workshops, with the overarching aim to improve workplace inclusivity and culture. He speaks on gender-themed topics including toxic masculinity, male privilege, menopause, and gender equality, while also offering suggestions as to how to improve workplaces for trans people.
Smith explained, “I would not want to work somewhere that didn’t have a trans policy, and I think companies need to hear that. A lot of them now are being told, because of the anti-DEI backlash, that basically anything that’s not seen as business should not go on LinkedIn or on a website. But I think companies forget that it actually demonstrates the sort of unique and cool stuff you’re doing, and it shows a bit of personality.”
“Your clients are as diverse as you are, and they’ll have trans kids or trans family members. They want to see you doing the work. And this is why it’s so important to speak about lived experience,” he added.
In the United States, President Donald Trump has backed a barrage of anti-DEI directives since taking office on January 20. His executive order, detailed in the White House’s “Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Protects Civil Rights and MeritBased Opportunity By Ending Illegal DEI” includes the termination of federal agencies’ DEI programs and practices.
(As the B.A.R. reported February 20, Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund is suing the Trump administration on behalf of organizations across the country, alleging the anti-DEI orders are illegal.)
One section reads, “Individual dignity, hard work, and excellence are fundamental to American greatness. This executive order reaffirms these values by ending the Biden-Harris Administration’s anti-constitutional and deeply demeaning ‘equity’ mandates, terminating DEI, and protecting civil rights.”
Trump’s DEI-reversal is far-reaching, affecting companies and individuals in the U.S. and beyond. His actions do not sit well with many, including Smith.
“To say I’m disappointed in President
Tate Smith started his eponymous consulting firm to help companies address trans and DEI policies in the workplace.
Trump’s anti-DEI measures would be an understatement. DEI is not just about LGBTQ+ people – it benefits everyone,” he stated. “Let’s not forget that women, people of color, and disabled individuals have all gained opportunities through DEI policies, and many wouldn’t have been able to work in the White House without them.”
He also considered the specific effects of Trump’s actions on the trans community, including “reinforcing outdated gender norms and restricting access to basic rights, like inclusive facilities.”
Several U.S. companies have rolled back their DEI initiatives and removed DEI references from their websites in response to Trump’s executive order.
Smith, with clients throughout the United Kingdom, hopes for companies to stand firm in their support of DEI, which in itself can be an impactful reaction.
“Now is the time for organizations to step up, not step back,” he noted. “Companies like JP Morgan, Costco, and Ben & Jerry’s have shown that investing in DEI strengthens both communities and businesses alike. The best way to push back against this regression is to keep leading by example.”
The makings of a personal history
Smith’s intersectional approach to DEI guidance stems from his working-class background, identities, and corresponding life experiences. During his youth, he lived with his family in Essex, a county in southeast England, in a council estate, i.e. public housing, and received free school meals.
He described his beginnings as “humble,” while also providing him with a sense of what he needed to do in order to achieve social mobility.
“My family was very, very poor, and so it was really important for me to have a successful career,” Smith shared.
On a whim, he enrolled in a legal secretary course at New City College’s Epping Forest campus, located in Loughton, England. The course completion resulted in his earning of a legal secretary diploma and landing a job as a legal team assistant in 2018. The work, he found, suited him.
“I actually ended up being really, really good at it, and I thought maybe I could become a lawyer. So what I started doing was working nine to five and then studying law in the evening, 6 until 9 p.m. I did this for a couple of years, and it seemed to go really well. I thought maybe I could become a human rights lawyer,” Smith said.
In his initial employment as a legal assistant, Smith was living as a woman. Men’s remarks and inappropriate behavior toward him often undercut the satisfaction he derived from the work itself. He asked that the name of the law firm not be published.
“I faced a lot of sexual harassment, sexual assault, casual sexism, and casual misogyny whilst in the role. I would have men making comments about the size of my breasts, making comments about wearing a dress and how nice my legs were. There would be men who would say, ‘I would love to cheat on my wife with you,’ or ‘If only I was 20 years younger,’” Smith shared.
As Smith realized, the societal perception of the legal secretary role only exacerbated the issue.
“I was also working in the most stereotypical female job, so people felt like they could talk to me like shit. I was at the bottom of the food chain when it came to the
people in the law firm,” he noted.
Things took a turn, though not for the better, when he began transitioning. Sexism and misogyny gave way to trans discrimination in those early years as a legal secretary, with the issues occurring “across different organizations,” Smith said.
“My line managers and the HR team suggested that I should be put in a separate room [from] my colleagues. They kept questioning me over how much I was going to change, if I was going to be difficult to work with,” Smith commented.
As a result of the lack of an inclusive culture, and altogether absent LGBTQ+ network and trans-supportive policies at his workplace, he sought employment as a legal secretary elsewhere. Once hired at Clifford Chance, he was prepared to go back into the closet, given his previous employer’s icy reception to his transness.
“I went stealth,” Smith explained.
And he could, since after many months on testosterone, his appearance and voice had changed, resulting in a noticeably different response from his new colleagues.
“As soon as I started working in this law firm, I was immediately met with so much respect, whereas a year prior to that, I would be shouted at by men just for doing my job. Every time I walked into a room, somebody wanted to be friends with me. People wanted to shake my hand and call me ‘lad’ and ‘sir’ and ‘mate,’” Smith shared, referring to Clifford Chance.
Clifford Chance officials declined to comment.
“Unfortunately, the firm doesn’t provide commentary on or discuss current and former colleagues,” a spokesperson stated in an email.
Because Smith was a man, co-workers presumed that he took on the legal secretary role as a stepping-stone to something bigger, which he was, in fact, doing with his evening law school classes.
“They’d pat me on the back and go, ‘What’s your story? You’re a legal secretary? No, you must be doing something else,’” he said.
Taking the initiative
For Smith, the lunch and learn at Clifford Chance was pivotal in that it inspired his eventual exit from the legal field, including his ambition to practice law.
“I had to take that leap of faith, because law was a very secure job for me, but I naturally outgrew it. I couldn’t have continued there any longer, and because I had so much educating to do, particularly with the time that we’re living in now, I thought, ‘If I don’t do it now, I’m never going to do it,’” he said of his decision to become an entrepreneur and own a business.
Tate Smith Consulting, with clients such as Barclays, JP Morgan, McCann, and Arnold & Porter, has operated as a private limited company (referred to as an LLC in the United States) as of April 2024, 13 months after its official launch.
“That was the greatest achievement of my life,” he said, “because not only am I seeing on this company register, ‘Mr. Tate Smith,’ which is so affirming for me and my transness, but I’m also seeing next to it, ‘company director’ and ‘shareholder.’ As a working class kid from a very disadvantaged background, that’s a really big deal for me.”
Via Tate Smith Consulting, he now helps other companies with setting up or refreshing their transgender policies, also known as “transition at work” or “change of gender expression” policies.
Smith explained, “A lot of companies still don’t have them. Or, they have them but they haven’t been updated in many years, and they haven’t considered things around nonbinary people and things like, ‘What if you’re gender-nonconforming and the photo on your security pass doesn’t match you on a particular day?’”
But clients shouldn’t expect a PowerPoint presentation or a terminology-laden sensitivity training session from Smith to glean insight into how to create a more inclusive work environment. Smith’s approach is grounded in his willingness to talk openly about being trans.
“I always speak from the heart. Nuanced conversations are what I’m best known for, because I’m really good at explaining things to people in a calm way,” he said.
Fiona Fleming, Head of ED&I (equity, diversity, and inclusion) at the law firm Farrer & Co, invited Smith to speak to her colleagues in its London headquarters. At the lunch and learn, he talked about his trans journey and trans- and nonbinaryinclusive workplace features.
“Tate’s lunch and learn session helped to move trans inclusion conversations at our firm into trans inclusion actions. Since Tate’s session, the firm has produced a transition and change to gender expression policy, alongside supporting guidance documents for line managers, colleagues, and HR,” Fleming wrote in an email to the B.A.R.
Fleming, a member of the LGBTQ community herself, also shared that Smith’s visit to Farrer & Co, and the insight he provided, prompted the firm to establish a suite of gender-inclusive bathrooms.
“Tate has passion, energy, enthusiasm, and expertise, and his work has truly been a catalyst for change in our firm,” she commented.
Oftentimes, companies reach out to Smith and request him as a guest speaker or panelist rather than for explicit assistance with their trans policies. They end up making improvements and continuing with DEI efforts based on what he’s shared.
Smith explained, “What will happen is, I’ll get feedback a couple of months later, or they’ll say, ‘Our board have just improved our trans policy because you spoke about it [and] the CEO or the managing partner was in that room’; ‘Someone sung your praises;’ or ‘We’ve decided to host another event.’”
“So I give them the basics, and I let them run with it, and if they want to come back to me for a policy, they can,” he said.
In 2024, one company – a global mining operator – sought direct guidance from Smith for its “Corporate Office Trans Policy.” The person was not authorized to share the name of the company. They shared the following statement:
“Tate’s review, input and challenges to the initial drafts allowed [the company] to ensure the policy used the right language, was appropriate and demonstrated support and commitment to ensuring all colleagues feel welcome, respected and supported,” the spokesperson stated.
To introduce the trans policy, Smith hosted a webinar for the company’s colleagues during which he spoke about his lived experience as a trans man and related terminology.
The company’s statement continued, “[Tate’s] engaging, open and honest approach allowed colleagues to engage with the policy, start conversations and increase awareness, understanding and empathy. The session was very well received and generated positive engagement in understanding through [a] live Q&A in, and after, the event. His experiences from when he presented as female, and the differences now, as a trans man, really helped frame and open up the conversation and understanding to a diverse global audience who would not usually get exposure to such content and experiences.”
The particulars
In his speaking engagements, Smith broaches topics such as misgendering a person and pronoun-sharing, using personal examples to emphasize their significance and effects.
His firsthand account of being misgendered conveys the emotional impact of the experience to clients.
He shared, “What I’ll say [to them], for example, is, ‘Being misgendered would literally break my day. It would just make me upset. I could not bring my full self to work if someone did not call somebody out and correct that person. I didn’t have the confidence, so I’d stay silent, and then that behavior continued.’”
When it comes to pronouns, he explains to his audience how he/him, she/ her, and they/them in email closings and social media bios read as signs of acceptance and allyship for LGBTQ individuals.
“I tell them that when I see somebody email me with pronouns in a signature, I know that if at some point I subtly say ‘I’m trans’ in a conversation, then I would feel safe with them. Safety is paramount to us,” Smith said.
That explanation, he’s discovered, gives clients the perspective they need. “They go, ‘Ah, I get it. It’s not just this whole woke business,’” he said.
And, in terms of adding or revamping trans policies, Smith advocates for companies to provide health care support to trans and nonbinary employees, citing his own uphill climb to top surgery, which his former law firm’s private medical insurance provider initially dubbed a “boob job.”
“I was like, ‘Well, no, it’s not, because you’re masculinizing my chest. You’re not amplifying anything. It’s not cosmetic. It’s corrective – it’s for my identity.’ I had to explain to them how it was impacting my day-to-day life,” Smith said.
His communication with the provider included detailing his avoidance of white shirts because he didn’t want people to see his binder through them, routine bathroom mirror checks to ensure his binder was in place, and wearing two jumpers (i.e. sweaters) to flatten his chest. Having breasts, in other words, was an endless discomfort, both physically and mentally.
“We [in the United Kingdom] are so lucky that we can still get access to our health care, as opposed to other places and countries, but it’s a fight. It’s like presenting a court case when you go to the doctors. … So what I do is I encourage organizations to cover that to take that emotional and financial burden away from the trans person. And a lot of companies do cover it, but they don’t publicize it because they are worried about the public backlash,” he said.
Smith’s interest in addressing health care inequalities for trans people extends to working with clients such as Egality (https://egality.health), a UK-based community engagement agency that strives for more inclusive health care-related research and innovations.
“It was a pleasure to work with Tate. He brought both warmth and professionalism to our project,” wrote Annette Crosse, CEO and founder of Egality, in an email to the B.A.R. Crosse, an ally, explained that the particular project involved developing “inclusive and accessible communications materials” about a study on the National Health Service’s care bundle for reducing heavy bleeding during childbirth. She reached out to Smith to support Egality with the effort. Crosse requested that the name of the study not be published.
“Tate brought in experts with lived experience to take part in workshops … including two trans men who have given birth. Tate helped us design the workshops to be inclusive, and he co-chaired sessions in the workshop[s] as well,” Crosse wrote. In the workshops, they also co-created some of the communications materials for the study.
“The outputs were patient information leaflets and films designed to share information with the LGTBQ+ community, who we know already face worse outcomes in our health system, and [with] parental care,” she wrote.
Reconceptualizing gender norms
Smith, attuned to his own male privilege, also uses his platform to inspire progressive perspectives among men.
“Unfortunately, men only listen to other men,” he said. “So I’m like, ‘OK, well, I’m now going to reverse male privilege on you and get you in that room to listen to me. [Y]ou think, ‘Oh, there’s a lad. That’s a nice looking boy. Let’s go listen to him.’ And then I hit you with, ‘I’m trans. I’m going through menopause. I’m socially mobile. I care about gender equality, and I want you to as well.’” Their surprise gives way to a better understanding of what being a man – and masculinity – can entail.
“These men go, ‘Oh my God,’ and it has a ripple effect. That’s the sort of man I want to continue being,” he said. t
This story is part of the Digital Equity Local Voices Fellowship lab through News is Out. The lab initiative is made possible with support from Comcast NBCUniversal.
Broadway Studios
Drag artists to hold People’s March for democracy Community News>>
compiled by Cynthia Laird
T
wo drag artists who have long organized the People’s March during June’s Pride Month are gearing up for one to fight fascism and promote democracy on Saturday, April 12, in San Francisco. Juanita MORE! and Alex U. Inn stated that the stakes are too high now that President Donald Trump has returned to the White House and instituted policies they vehemently disagree with.
The pair has assembled a coalition of young progressive officials; faith leaders; teachers; trans leaders; immigrants; Black, Indigenous and people of color; artists; the disenfranchised; and anyone else who feels they are subject to the unlawful policies of the new administration. Nobody should live in fear because of their color, faith, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, or political beliefs, the organizers stated.
Inn told the Bay Area Reporter that after five years, the People’s March is now its own brand. First started in June 2020 during COVID when the San Francisco Pride parade was canceled, with another planned for this year’s Pride Month, Inn said the marches organized under its moniker are for more than just the LGBTQ community, as next weekend’s march will demonstrate.
“We use our platform for good,” Inn said in a phone interview.
For the upcoming democracy march, Inn said everyone is welcome since actions by the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency have affected so many people.
“It’s the people’s fight,” said Inn. “Our moniker is perfect for this and the fact that legal and political chaos is disrupting all of our lives.”
Inn ticked off the mass government firings, canceling government programs, and “an abuse of power that harms many individuals.”
MORE! told the B.A.R. that it’s hard for her to watch the news these days.
“But I have to because I care about our community,” she said in a separate phone interview. “So many of the laws coming down are hitting us personally.”
MORE! noted that she is Latin and queer. Inn is a queer Black drag king.
“The queer part of it, the trans part of it. My friends who are teachers,” MORE! said, referring to the flurry of executive orders Trump has issued affecting these communities and many others, including immigrants.
Trump has signed orders defining gender as two sexes, male and female, and that passports must match a person’s sex defined at birth. He has also issued executive orders prohibiting trans girls and women from playing on female sports teams and banning trans service members from serving in the armed forces. On education, Trump issued an executive order targeting affirmative actions that schools across the U.S. have taken to support queer and transgender students, from teaching LGBTQ curriculum and providing genderneutral bathrooms to honoring students’ preferred pronouns and names and allowing them to play on athletic teams regardless of the sex they were assigned at birth.
“Now is the time to unite against this fascist movement,” Inn said, adding that actions taken by the federal government “uproots our public trust.”
Trump’s executive orders and more that the administration has done will be the subject of next weekend’s march, MORE! said. Up until recently, much of the resistance to Trump’s second term has been more muted than when he first took office in 2017. MORE! thinks that is changing as the breadth of the administration’s actions is becoming more apparent.
“We’re seeing big marches in other cities,” said MORE!
MORE! encouraged anyone who is interested in protecting democracy to attend.
“It will also bring people who aren’t feeling great together,” she said. “I feel like people need that.”
The democracy march includes a rally at Embarcadero Plaza (formerly Justin Herman Plaza) at Market and Steuart streets at noon, followed by a march on Market Street to San Fran-
cisco City Hall. The event is expected to end around 3 p.m.
This will be one of two People’s Marches MORE! and Inn have planned for this year. The People’s March for Pride Month is scheduled for Sunday, June 22, in the Polk Gulch neighborhood where the original Gay Freedom Day march was held back in the 1970s. Originally held the same Sunday as the Pride parade, in recent years the two moved the People’s March to the weekend before the
Pride parade, which will take place this year June 29.
News is Out adds 6 affiliate members News is Out, the groundbreaking LGBTQ+ media collaborative, is proud to welcome six new affiliate members. This expansion strengthens the collaborative’s mission to amplify LGBTQ+ voices and ensure equitable, community-centered journalism across the country, a news release stated.
The B.A.R. is a member of News is Out.
The six new affiliate members are: The Buckeye Flame (Ohio), Between the Lines/Pridesource (Michigan), Lookout (Arizona), Out SFL (Southern Florida), Qnotes Carolinas (Carolinas), and Watermark Out News (Central Florida).
“The addition of these incredible affiliate members to News is Out is a landmark moment for the collaborative,” stated Dana Piccoli, managing direc tor of News is Out. “After three years of growth, we’re thrilled to take this next step and continue working for a more sustainable future for all queer media, alongside our new partners.”
The affiliates, who are important sources of information for the LGBTQ+ community in their regions, will actively participate in shaping the collaborative’s future impact, the release stated. Affiliates will have opportunities to contribute to fundraising efforts, take part in branded content campaigns to grow revenue, and collaborate on joint applications for philanthropic support. Affiliates will also act as ambassadors for the program, and play a key role in 2025 LGBTQ+ Media Day, both in fundraising and sharing in the proceeds, the release noted.
Penny Riordan, the Local Media Association’s director of Local News Fund and collaboration, stated she is glad that the publishers were eager to expand the group. “These outlets are also leaders in the queer media space, just as our founding publishers are. It’s a true sign of collaboration if the group votes to add more members,” she stated. LMA is the nonprofit entity that oversees News is Out, which in addition to the B.A.R. includes Dallas Voice, Los Angeles Blade, Philadelphia Gay News, Tagg magazine,
See page 10 >>
Alex U. Inn, second from left, and Juanita MORE!, second from right, seen at the 2021 June People’s March, will lead a new People’s March: Fight Fascism for Democracy on April 12.
Gooch
Volume 55, Number 14
April 3-9, 2025 www.ebar.com
PUBLISHER
Michael M. Yamashita
Thomas E. Horn, Publisher Emeritus (2013)
Publisher (2003 – 2013)
Bob Ross, Founder (1971 – 2003)
NEWS EDITOR
Cynthia Laird
ARTS & NIGHTLIFE EDITOR
Jim Provenzano
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Matthew S. Bajko • John Ferrannini
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Christopher J. Beale • Robert Brokl
Brian Bromberger • Victoria A. Brownworth
Philip Campbell • Heather Cassell
Michael Flanagan •Jim Gladstone
Liz Highleyman • Brandon Judell • Lisa Keen
Philip Mayard • Laura Moreno
David-Elijah Nahmod • Mark William Norby
J.L. Odom • Paul Parish Tim Pfaff
Jim Piechota • Adam Sandel
Jason Serinus • Gregg Shapiro
Gwendolyn Smith • Charlie Wagner
Ed Walsh • Cornelius Washington • Sura Wood
ART DIRECTION
Max Leger
PRODUCTION/DESIGN
Ernesto Sopprani
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jane Philomen Cleland
Rick Gerharter • Gooch
Jose A. Guzman-Colon • Rudy K. Lawidjaja
Georg Lester • Rich Stadtmiller
Christopher Robledo • Fred Rowe
Shot in the City • Steven Underhill • Bill Wilson
ILLUSTRATORS & CARTOONISTS
Christine Smith
VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVERTISING
Scott Wazlowski – 415.829.8937
NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE
Rivendell Media – 212.242.6863
LEGAL COUNSEL
Paul H. Melbostad, Esq.
Bay area reporter
44 Gough Street, Suite 302 San Francisco, CA 94103
Published weekly. Bay Area Reporter reserves the right to edit or reject any advertisement which the publisher believes is in poor taste or which advertises illegal items which might result in legal action against Bay Area Reporter. Ads will not be rejected solely on the basis of politics, philosophy, religion, race, age, or sexual orientation.
Advertising rates available upon request.
Our list of subscribers and advertisers is confidential and is not sold. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, and writers published herein is neither inferred nor implied. We are not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork.
McMahon overreaches with jab at CA
For someone who wants to close the federal Department of Education, President Donald Trump has shown that he’ll use the agency when it suits him. Last week, federal education officials announced they will be investigating the California Department of Education because it enforces a state law that prohibits public school districts from implementing policies that would allow school officials to out trans and nonbinary students to their parents without their permission. Last year, gay Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego) authored Assembly Bill 1955, the Support Academic Futures & Educators for Today’s Youth (SAFETY) Act, which prohibits school districts from adopting these forced outing policies. Such policies adversely affected LGBTQ students, state leaders said.
Of course, this is all about Trump’s war on trans people and his executive orders that include one that states there are only two sexes – male and female – and another that prohibits trans girls and women from playing on female sports teams, among others.
Now, Education Secretary Linda McMahon is turning the issue on its head, stating in a letter to school officers and superintendents receiving federal funds that they need to comply with obligations under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment. Compliance with these laws means that schools must allow parents to review all education records of their student, including any document related to a student’s “gender identity,” according to a news release from the Department of Education.
The California Department of Education was one state department that received the letter and that federal education officials will investigate, the release stated.
from accessing records relating to their child’s “gender transition.” Federal laws like FERPA and PPRA preempt state laws, the release noted.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, who is running for governor in 2026, is standing firmly with state law and LGBTQ students.
“Our students must be safe in order to learn,” Thurmond said, according to the Los Angeles Times.
McMahon instructed the department’s Student Privacy Policy Office to open FERPA investigations into the California Department of Education March 27 and the Maine Department of Education a day later, amid allegations that these states have violated FERPA by establishing policies to prohibit parents
“I have heard from so many students and families whose safety has been impacted by forced-outing policies. To our LGBTQ+ youth and families, I want to make sure that you hear us as loudly as we hear you: You are heard, you are protected, and you are loved.”
McMahon doesn’t realize – or doesn’t care – that if several California school districts hadn’t targeted trans and nonbinary students with their dangerous forced outing bills, the state law wouldn’t have been necessary. But at a time when queer youth face increased rates of mental health issues, this is the wrong time for the federal government to target trans youth. As a recent report from the Trevor Project found, depression and suicide remain at elevated levels for queer and transgender young people aged 13 to 24.
According to the Trevor Project’s “2024 U.S.
The sports thing
by Gwendolyn Ann Smith
I’m not a big sports person. I was the sort of kid who got picked last, and in spite of my parents’ protestations, I just never found myself into athletics. It’s not that I dislike sports, per se, but it never clicked with me.
In fact, one of the last times I really followed sports was back in my senior year in high school, where my school’s boys basketball team ended up making it to the California Interscholastic Federation finals.
Along the way, we ended up playing a team that had one player who was something like 6 feet 4 inches tall. The whole school heard about him in the week before the game, and we were worried how well we might do against him and the rest of his team. In the end, however, we won. His height was not an advantage against what was an otherwise solid team that put the work in.
I think of that story when I consider some of the fights against transgender people in sports today. We have seen, over the last decade, a lot of arguments about the supposed unfair advantage transgender athletes – in particular trans women in women’s sports – possess.
The issue is one that has few champions. Even moderate voices feel that perhaps there needs to be some “reasonable compromises” around transgender people in sports, even when we are talking about kids on the playground in elementary school, long before any real competitions come up.
As a result, this issue is also one that anti-trans voices have focused on, using it for leverage in their whole anti-transgender agenda.
Consider, for example, what is happening right now in Sacramento. After Governor Gavin Newsom used his new podcast
Newsom to signal his willingness to restrict trans women’s participation in sports, President Donald Trump’s new education secretary, Linda McMahon, started to threaten funding cuts to California schools not only over sports, but also rules that protect transgender students from being outed by school officials without that student’s consent.
It is worth noting here, too, that the California Legislature this week discussed Assembly Bill 89, which seeks to bring California in line with the Trump administration’s views on school athletics under the aforementioned California Interscholastic Federation, prohibiting any student whose sex was assigned male at birth from participating on a
National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People by State” report, published in March, 35% of LGBTQ+ young people in California “seriously considered suicide in the past year, including 39% of transgender and nonbinary young people.” Eleven percent attempted suicide in the past year, including 14% of transgender and nonbinary young people. https://www.ebar.com/ story/338223/redirect/
In another matter, in February, the federal education department announced it was investigating the California Interscholastic Federation, a state athletic governing body. CIF follows state law, which allows trans girls to compete on female sports teams. Now, it’s under threat by the Trump administration. The Trump administration likes to say that the federal government should stay out of education. Yet, here we are with the federal government suddenly taking a keen interest in public education at the expense of vulnerable youth. This is wrong.
A state Assembly committee on Tuesday killed two anti-trans sports bills, which was not surprising since Democratic lawmakers dominate the Legislature. The bills attempted to reinforce the misconception that trans women and girls are a threat to others, when there is no evidence of this. The bills seek to divide students, parents, and others, especially trans and nonbinary student-athletes, who just want to play on a team that aligns with their identity.
All of these recent developments serve just one purpose: to distract Americans from the real issues facing this country in the age of Trump, such as economic instability and the mass layoffs of veteran government employees that will decimate various agencies, stripping them of expertise in all manner of areas. From public health to the great outdoors to veterans’ services, federal agencies are being shrunk at an unprecedented rate that will leave so many Americans without vital services. If Trump is serious about closing down the Department of Education, he should just try and do that, and fight the inevitable lawsuits that will be filed. But keeping the department functioning just to go after state agencies he disagrees with is disingenuous. t
girls’ interscholastic sports team. Note that it does not require the same for trans boys.
Not to be outdone, of course, is the latest out of the World Athletics Council. Two years ago, it banned those who were assigned male at birth from participating in women’s sports as well. This, apparently, was not far enough for the organization.
Now, it will require that anyone enter ing into women’s sports competitions to verify their “biological sex” – a term I should note has little actual utility – though the council is not yet entirely sure how these tests will be done. Again, I feel it important to state that there is no testing planned, or ban on, transgender men from participating in men’s sports.
1905, the sport was segregated into men’s and women’s competitions, with the latter not classified as a “world championship.”
Ninety years later, the Olympics created a women’s category for skeet shooting after Zhang Shan won the gold medal in what had been an open category. These are but two of many examples.
Indeed, the whole argument that trans women cannot compete against women because they had the supposed benefits of having been born male is an inherently misogynist claim. It implies that there is something inherent in maleness that will always outclass a woman, even if the competitor in question is a trans woman.
Even the International Olympic Committee, which did suggest previously that sex testing simply wasn’t of value, is backing away from this in regard to women’s sports – and just in time, one might assume, for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
One thing that so rarely seems to come up when women’s sports are discussed, especially when one is talking about trans women being a part of it, is that the segregation of women’s sports has more to do with men’s egos, and less with actually uplifting women.
In the 1902 World Figure Skating Championships, when the sport was considered a men’s sport, a woman – Madge Syers – came in second place. In
This advantage, by the way, has been largely disproved. A study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, released in 2024, showed that transgender women performed worse than non-transgender women. Tests of lower body strength and lung function were worse for trans women. Trans women have a higher percentage of fat mass and weaker grips. Also, trans women’s bone density and hemoglobin were roughly identical to nontransgender women. These findings match many other past studies, too. This is why anti-trans bigots have to cherry pick from a very small pool of examples. Rather than showing you this supposed onslaught of trans women setting records and pilfering prizes, you hear about Lia Thomas’ single victory, or about Riley Gains coming in fifth against one trans woman and several other non-trans competitors. They even pad it out by introducing other non-transgender competitors, like Olympic athletes Imane Khelif or Caster Semenya.
Transgender people are just not taking away any prizes and records, not that they shouldn’t have an equal chance at them. No amount of trying to claim this makes it true. This is a fight against specters that don’t exist, all to let men feel superior – and, of course, to harm transgender people. It’s time to get real about this intrinsically false issue of transgender women in sports. t
Gwen Smith will never threaten any world records. You’ll find her at www.gwensmith. com
Christine Smith
Education Secretary Linda McMahon AP
After heated hearing, CA legislators kill trans sports ban bills
by Matthew S. Bajko
After a heated hearing Tuesday in Sacramento, California legislators killed two anti-transgender sports bans introduced by Republican lawmakers. It comes as the Trump administration is investigating a statewide sports organization over the Golden State’s policy that allows transgender student athletes to play on the sports teams aligned with their gender.
Assembly Bill 89 authored by Assemblymember Kate Sanchez (R-Rancho Santa Margarita) aimed to ban trans girls from playing on female athletic teams. AB 844 by Assemblymember Bill Essayli (R-Corona) would also have banned trans boys from playing on male sports teams.
A fool’s errand, as the Democraticcontrolled Legislature was never expected to adopt the bills, the votes on the transphobic legislation by the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism Committee was appropriately scheduled Tuesday on April Fools’ Day. The panel rejected AB 89 on a 7-2 vote and AB 844 on a 6-2 vote during the hearing but left the roll open for absent members.
“Gender identity has been a protected class for more than a decade. I am not going to turn my back on that. I am not going to sanction discrimination against LGBTQ Californians, not now, not ever,” said Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister), a member of the committee who voted against AB 89 but was absent when the vote on AB 844 was taken during the hearing. “I am glad we had this debate because Californians deserve to know what our priorities are.”
in which he agreed with a conservative provocateur that the issue is one of “fairness.”
On the inaugural edition of his “This is Gavin Newsom” podcast with guest Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA who is a vocal supporter of Republican President Donald Trump and routinely attacks the transgender community, the Democratic governor and likely 2028 presidential candidate told Kirk that he was “completely aligned” with him on banning trans athletes from teams that don’t align with the sex they were assigned at birth.
Newsom blamed California’s policy requiring trans female student athletes to be allowed to play on women’s sports teams to a sign signed by his predecessor, former governor Jerry Brown, more than a decade ago.
In explaining her opposition to bans on trans athletes, Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton) questioned where is the data to support such a policy. Before passing any bills, she suggested there be a study on how many trans athletes there are in California and then an informational hearing on the finding be held.
“This is wrong and this is cruel,” she said.
Speaking in opposition of Sanchez’s bill was Rhiannon Mulligan, an award-winning rower in college, who noted that sports are “inherently unfair” due to genetics that favor some athletes over others. Yet, policies are not put into place to ban them from their sports, she noted.
“There is no evidence trans women or girls are dominating sports,” said Mulligan, a senior legislative aide for Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz). “Sometimes they win, sometimes they lose just like any other athletes. In every sport there are simply more losers than winners.”
Voicing support for Sanchez’s bill was California Family Council Outreach Director Sophia Lorey, a former high school and college soccer player. She called allowing trans female athletes to play on women’s teams “coercive” and takes away the “right to play in fair sports” from cisgender girls.
“The simple truth is girls deserve to compete fairly and safely against other girls,” said Lorey.
Attempting to educate the public
In previous years it would have been extremely unlikely to see the bills even get a hearing. But committee chair, gay Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego), said he had the committee take up the bills as a way to educate the public about the issue of trans sports players, particularly following Governor Gavin Newsom’s comments on his podcast
“It turns out in 2014, years before I was governor, there was a law established that established the legal principles that allow trans athletes in women’s sports. The issue of fairness is completely legit. I completely align with you, we have to acknowledge it,” said Newsom. His comments were brought up by backers of the bills during their remarks before the Assembly committee Tuesday. Sanchez, the first speaker at the hearing, did so, noting that Newsom is “widely considered one of the most proLGBTQ governors in our state’s history” and yet agrees with her on the issue.
“It is not about hate. It is not about fear. It is not right-wing talking points,” said Sanchez. “This is entirely about fairness, safety, and integrity in high school girls’ athletics. It is long past time we have said that aloud.”
Essayli also referenced Newsom’s comments in arguing that “biological males do not belong in girls’ and women’s sports,” and therefore, his bill should be adopted.
“To quote Governor Newsom, that right-wing extremist, this is an issue of fundamental fairness. Biology matters, and sports are where that matters most,” said Essayli, adding it is “why we have sex-segregated sports in the first place.”
Yet, Democratic committee members pushed back against it being a matter of fairness and argued it is about being allowed to discriminate against trans students who want to play sports. Ward said the bills are based on bigotry and a misunderstanding of a person’s gender identity.
“To their core, trans women are women and they want to live their life as a woman and want to be respected as a woman,” said Ward.
Gay Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood) warned that reversing course on protecting transgender students would further harm youth who already are at high risk for suicide ideation, depression, harassment, bullying and a host of negative health outcomes.
“I look at this issue and, the thing that actually breaks my heart, is you are using our most vulnerable students as a political cudgel and literally our most vulnerable students in the state of California,” said Zbur.
The issue of trans sports participation has roiled politics and courthouses in recent years. Both straight and trans student athletes have filed lawsuits over the matter, while Democrats in the U.S. Senate earlier this year defeated a bill that had been passed by the House and would have banned transgender youth participation in sports on teams that align with their gender identity, as the B.A.R. reported.
In February, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi warned three state attorneys general – including California’s – to comply with President Donald Trump’s executive order on transgender girls and women’s participation in female sports. The federal Education Department also announced February 12 an investigation of the California Interscholastic Federation – the state’s governing body of high school sports –as a result of its current pro-trans athlete policies.
Both stemmed from Trump’s executive order signed February 5 titled “Keeping Men out of Women’s Sports,” which states it is U.S. policy to rescind all federal funds “from educational pro grams that deprive women and girls of fair athletic opportunities, which results in the endangerment, humiliation, and silencing of women and girls and de prives them of privacy. It shall also be the policy of the United States to oppose male competitive participation in wom en’s sports more broadly, as a matter of safety, fairness, dignity, and truth.”
It is being challenged by trans stu dents and their families in federal court.
And the statewide school athletics fed eration had issued a statement saying it would follow state law on the matter, not the White House, and continue to enforce its policy allowing students to compete based on their gender identity, though it does have certain guidelines for transgender female athletes to abide by, such as regarding hormone levels.
“The CIF provides students with the opportunity to belong, connect, and compete in education-based experiences in compliance with California law [Education Code section 221.5. (f)] which permits students to participate in school programs and activities, including athletic teams and competitions, consistent with the student’s gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the student’s records,” stated the federation.
Under her AB 89, Sanchez was aiming to require the federation to amend its constitution, bylaws, and policies to prohibit a high school pupil whose sex was assigned male at birth from participating on a girls’ interscholastic sports team. It made no mention about trans male high school athletes being banned from boys’ sports teams.
Assemblymember Chris Ward, seen here at a 2024 rally for his bill to prohibit forced outing policies, chaired a hearing Tuesday on two anti-trans bills.
Courtesy Assemblymember Ward’s office
PR professional Sparrer pens industry book for kids
by Matthew S. Bajko
Growing up Curtis Sparrer never dreamed of one day becoming a public relations professional. No one gave him a book about the profession geared toward children, and he never encountered one in his public library or local bookstore.
So, as a way to mark his PR company Bospar’s 10th anniversary and better explain what he does for work to his niece, Sparrer decided to write one. In doing so, he sought the advice of his sister’s daughter on the plot. The 16-year-old ended up becoming a main character along with her uncle in the fictionalized tale titled “Game Face: Becoming a PR Detective.”
Being released April 2 to coincide with Public Relations Month, Sparrer is self-publishing the 80-page book, which costs $5.99. It can be purchased on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com//dp/ B0F255CNQW.
“We are going to be the number one children’s book on PR in the market,” Sparrer, 50, confidently predicted, seeing as it has no competition.
The story centers around himself and his niece, Sloan, dealing with a snafu that arises with a video game about dragons that she plays. Black-and-white cartoon images of the two by illustrator Dina Batista are interspersed between the story text written with an audience of 10-year-old readers in mind.
“Ever notice how there are characters in your games who turn complete disasters into epic quests? That’s basically what I do,” the fictionalized Uncle Curtis character explains to his niece.
The plot turns Sloan into a “PR detective” deputized by her uncle to assist him in figuring out how to turn the glitch in the game making its dragons and every other character into babies into a positive for his client, the company that made it. Along the way PR industry terms like “market research” and “crisis response” are incorporated into the storyline, which also illustrates how to pitch article ideas to journalists in a deft way to achieve favorable coverage for clients.
As the Curtis character notes, “We’re not pushing back against their stories. We’re giving them better ones.”
At the same time, the book gives an insider’s peek at how to manage PR clients and help them respond to rival companies’ marketing tactics.
Thomas
“We help companies tell their stories and handle unexpected situations. Sometimes that means being what I call ‘politely pushy,’” Uncle Curtis tells his niece.
By the time the book comes to an end, Sloan has gained insight into what her uncle does for a living.
“I thought being a PR Detective meant solving mysteries … But it’s really about connecting dots nobody else can see. Finding the real story underneath,” declares Sloan.
The spelling of her name isn’t exact to her given name in order to protect Sloan’s privacy. Her mother allowed the Bay Area Reporter to interview Sloan jointly with Sparrer as long as her legal name wasn’t published.
Leaning more toward artistic pursuits for her own career, Sloan said she enjoyed collaborating on the book with her uncle. She isn’t likely, however, to follow him on the same career path, she allowed.
“It may not be my preferred profession, but I certainly have learned more about it,” said Sloan.
While not clarified in the book for brevity reasons, the Uncle Curtis and Sloan characters seem to live under the same roof.
“That got lost on the cutting room floor,” said Sparrer, noting that his sister and niece “are integral parts of my life.”
Like her fictional self, Sloan noted in real life she also is a “big gamer” who enjoys playing video games, so the book’s plotline is bedded in her personal pursuits. She also enjoyed seeing the cartoonification of her likeness.
“I think it is very cute,” said Sloan. Sparrer also pulled from his own experiences, having handled PR for several large gaming companies, in determining the book’s plot. Rather than come up with a totally fictional story, he opted for the maxim, “Write what you know.”
She resides in the Bay Area with her family so often sees her uncle, who lives in San Francisco with his husband, interior designer Brice Stanek. Sloan was the flower girl at their wedding, and at the start of the COVID pandemic in 2020, the two households lived together to form their own social bubble for a time.
DUGGAN’S FUNERAL SERVICE the DUGGAN WeLCh fAmiLy 3434 – 17th StREEt SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110
V. Halloran General Manager
A native San Franciscan with 40 years of professional experience assisting families in need.
A longtime resident of the Eureka Valley, Castro and Mission Districts; a member of the Castro Merchants Association and a 25 year member of the Freewheelers Car Club.
At Duggan’s Funeral Service, which sits in the heart of the Mission, we offer custom services that fit your personal wishes in honoring and celebrating a life.
We are committed to the ever-changing needs of the community and the diverse families we serve.
Please call for information 415-431-4900 or visit us at www.duggansfuneralservice.com FD44
“I have been there when something goes really bad and everyone is white hot angry, and you need to fix it. I thought that would be a good setting for a book about PR,” said Sparrer. His aim is to not only explain what PR is to children but also inspire them to consider it as a career. He wishes he had been given such a nudge when he was deciding on his own career path, which began in journalism.
“Growing up my career trajectory wasn’t the smartest because I didn’t think enough about it,” Sparrer acknowledged. “I thought there are a lot of kids who don’t like math and numbers but do like creative writing, and this would be a good career for them.”
Sparrer was an Emmy-winning executive producer for San Francisco-based KRON-TV. Sparrer then pivoted to PR thinking it would be a “safety net” in terms of a career move, as Sparrer notes in the preface for his book. Yet, he struggled to break into the industry until Chris Boehlke took a chance on him.
She would go on to co-found with Sparrer their own firm called Bospar, a portmanteau of their last names, a de-
From page 1
“An AIDS diagnosis doesn’t go away,” Aguilar said in a March 31 phone call. “It’s called an entitlement for a reason, and they want me to pay the money back.”
Aguilar received a letter dated March 19 that stated he was overpaid $201,729.10. The letter then states, “We should have stopped your Social Security benefits beginning December 2013. We paid you $182,177.20 for January 2014 through February 2025. Since we should have paid you $0.00 for January 2014 through February 2025, we paid you $182,177.20 more than you were due.”
cade ago. Since then, Sparrer twice has landed on Business Insider’s list of the best people in Tech PR, with his clients including PayPal, Unisys, Tetris, and the SETI Institute
Unlike the glamorized depiction of PR professionals in such TV shows like Netflix’s “Emily In Paris” or HBO’s “Sex And The City,” Sparrer said his workdays are far less glamorous and largely have him “tethered” to his desk at home. (As a cost-saving move, Bospar opted not to lease office space and has always had its staff work remotely.)
“I wish my life would be that entertaining and filled with that many parties,” said Sparrer, explaining that with his book, “I wanted to give a realistic version.”
On the flip side, PR professionals often are depicted as nefarious and negatively nicknamed spinmeisters or spin doctors or flacks. The dueling pop culture depictions of the industry add to the lack of awareness most people have about what PR entails, said Sparrer.
“I find that a lot of people in PR are frustrated that they can’t explain their profession and uncomfortable with the different ways it is explained,” said Sparrer, noting that PR is a “hidden career,” meaning most people “don’t think about it.”
and “an explanation of why you cannot pay the full amount now.”
The difference in the two overpayment amounts noted in the letter is $19,551.90. Asked about this, Aguilar said, “I don’t know why that discrepancy is. It doesn’t make sense.”
Aguilar said he doesn’t know the significance of the 2013 date, stating at the time that he wasn’t working at all.
Aguilar stated that he received a previous letter March 6 stating, “Earlier, we wrote to tell you that we had information about your work and earnings that could affect your Social Security disability payments,” but that he does not remember a letter to that effect before that date, and had heard as recently as February everything was copacetic.
Few people know anyone who works in PR, Sparrer pointed out, and the majority of parents don’t talk about it with their children. According to census bureau data from 2022, nearly 138,380 people worked in the profession, with 65% women.
“If I sell 100 books, I will feel good about myself,” said Sparrer, predicting that when people in PR want “help explaining their job to their children or family members, this is the book they will go to.”
Asked how she would now explain what her uncle does for work having collaborated on the book with him, Sloan told the B.A.R. that he solves issues with his clients’ public appearances and helps solve problems. She added that she “is proud” of her uncle.
“I think it is an opportunity for kids to learn about PR and also about creative problem solving,” she said of the book.
As for it bringing her a new claim to fame, Sloan responded, “I don’t know if I am ready for that!”t
Got a tip on LGBTQ business news? Call Matthew S. Bajko at (415) 829-8836 or email m.bajko@ ebar.com.
Aguilar waited till he had the chance to hear back from the offices of Congressmember Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) and California U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D) before making a decision as to whether to obtain the services of an attorney to appeal the Social Security Administration’s decisions.
He had also reached out to the National Center for Lesbian Rights, which has done HIV legal work.
NCLR Director of Community Justice and Access Ming Wong stated, “NCLR generally does not share who contacts us for assistance or comment on the merits of individual cases we are not directly involved with.”
“However, cases of alleged Social Security overpayment typically involve individuals who are living on a limited income, who are often elderly and/or people with disabilities, and highlight the importance having protections in << Social Security
After this, under the heading “How To Pay Us Back,” the letter continues, “You should refund this overpayment of $201,729.10 within 30 days,” and it advises several ways Aguilar could repay the money, including a partial payment
“I simply find it hard to believe that they could overlook an overpayment for 13 years,” he stated.
Asked for comment, SFAF only confirmed Aguilar is employed by the agency.
See page 10 >>
Curtis Sparrer, left, and his niece, Sloan, read “Game Face: Becoming a PR Detective,” Sparrer’s new children’s book about the public relations industry.
Courtesy Curtis Sparrer
“Game Face: Becoming a PR Detective” is a kids book about the public relations industry.
Courtesy Curtis Sparrer
t Community News>>
A finding of complete self-defense would have ended in an acquittal.
After court adjourned, Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Davidson, speaking for the government, declined to comment.
Patrick D. Robbins, the acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California, issued a statement late March 31.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s family, whose son and brother was taken from them prematurely, and hope today’s verdict brings some measure of justice,” Robbins stated in a news release. “We commend the swift actions of the FBI agents, who promptly and thoroughly investigated this case from the moment the victim’s body was found in the Presidio.”
Sanjay Virmani, the new FBI special agent in charge at the San Francisco field office, stated, “This conviction demonstrates the FBI’s unwavering commitment to seeking justice for victims of violent crime.”
“Through tireless investigative work and collaboration with our law enforcement partners, we ensured that the defendant was held accountable for this senseless act,” he continued. “The FBI will continue to pursue those who commit violent offenses and threaten the safety of our communities.”
Defense attorney Shaffy Moeel and family of Butler’s who were present in court declined to comment.
The foreperson of the jury declined to comment on the record.
Family of Walupupu who’d been present in court on previous days were not there for the reading of the verdict.
page 1
“If you do it that way, people can always change their hearts and minds, and changing hearts and minds is the first step. I told Nicole we need to have some grace and just go,” said Brake, who added the foundation is willing to do some fundraising in support of the GSA moving forward.
Murray Ramirez had told the B.A.R. on Friday that there was a possibility to revisit the scholarships “at a later date, but right now a lot of people are very hurt and angry, rightfully so.” It is still to be determined going forward, he said, if the fund or court system will sponsor future scholarships at the community college in Victorville, California.
The gay San Diego resident and city commissioner added that the court system will also uphold its agreement to sponsor a prom for the school’s LGBTQ students with a $1,000 contribution. Murray Ramirez plans to bring with him to the ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday crowns for the prom king and queen.
“I think the way they handled it was very disrespectful and hurtful to a lot of people,” he said, referring to college leaders. “But we will be there. We are there for the students, especially myself as a person of color, I understand the struggle of students and any student that has financial struggles to educate themselves.”
Murray Ramirez said he had been working with college officials for two months on the naming honor for Sarria only to learn last week that it had been rescinded. The president of the campus GSA learned about it after being contacted by the B.A.R. March 28 via its Instagram account for comment.
Political Notebook
From page 7
In her author’s statement, Sanchez argued, “It is undeniable that men have biological advantages over women in most competitive sports. Ignoring the biological differences between men and women destroys any semblance of a level-playing field and puts young women at an unfair and unsafe disadvantage
The case
The defense had argued that Butler acted in self-defense after Walupupu demanded his money back and expressed surprise after Butler revealed she is trans. Walupupu had picked Butler up at the intersection of Post and Polk streets, which is called the blade, Moeel had told the jury. There’s another blade in the Mission district, but the Tenderloin intersection is known as a place where transgender and gender-nonconforming sex workers can be found.
Moeel told the Bay Area Reporter on the first day of the trial that her client wants to be referred to as Leniyah. She is listed as such on the court documents along with Leion Butler, which is not her deadname. Those documents were changed on March 17. Previous court records included Butler’s deadname, which the B.A.R. isn’t publishing.
“Unfortunately, Victor Valley College’s Pride Center will not be named for Jose Sarria. Unbeknownst to us working on the Pride Center, centers on VVC’s campus can only be named after people who have contributed to the center,” wrote GSA President Zee Gaytan. “It is an unfortunate error on the ends of the staff and VVC, who never mentioned anything about it while we worked on it, and the GSA Club and our adviser, who all have been spearheading the pride center project.”
College officials comment College officials did not respond to the B.A.R. last Friday. Reached by email Monday, March 31, college board President Brandon Wood responded that he was traveling in Alaska and unavailable to speak by phone.
“As you may be aware, I am the current president of the board of trustees, not the president of the college. Our board has taken no role in any naming decisions,” wrote Wood. After coming back from vacation on April 1, Superintendent-President Daniel Walden, Ph.D., of the college emailed the B.A.R. to say that he regretted the mishandling of the center naming and praised Sarria’s achievements during his lifetime.
“This never rose to the level of college leadership. It came from a faculty member who did not possess the authority or position to make such a decision. When it came to the leadership’s attention, we explained to her that this violated a board policy,” wrote Walden. “Unfortunately, naming the pride center after José does not conform to the board policy. I regret this had to reach the level that it did before our leadership was made aware of it. There is no offense intended, and we appreciate the
within their own sport. I introduced AB 89 to restore fairness, integrity, and safety to girls’ sports.”
In opposition to the bill was the American Civil Liberties Union California Action, which noted it is the latest move in “a nationwide, coordinated effort to sow fear and insecurity about transgender people and chip away at hard-fought civil rights protections, and California must stand firmly against it.”
It also warned the bill, if enacted,
because there was “the crime, the coverup, [and] the confession,” the latter referring to Butler’s FBI interview in which she admitted to killing Walupupu.
Davidson said, referencing the jury instructions, that “there’s no room for sympathy.”
“Ms. Butler did not say he [Walupupu] was drunk or driving erratically or that he threatened to rape or kill her,” Davidson said. “She was the one with the gun, and he was outside the car.”
The motive, Davidson argued, was anger.
Walupupu “was not posing an imminent threat, and so Ms. Butler shot him because she was mad, because she wanted the money, because she didn’t want to look ‘dumb as fuck,’ because she didn’t want to be stranded, because she didn’t want to be cold,” said Davidson.
The trial was held in Judge Susan Illston’s courtroom, who is a judge for U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, at the federal courthouse at 450 Golden Gate Avenue, near San Francisco City Hall.
While homicide cases typically are adjudicated in county courts, the fact that the killing took place on federal land gave the United States government original jurisdiction on this matter.
Federal prosecutors maintained Butler acted deliberately and intentionally in the shooting. During closing arguments March 26, they laid out the prongs of second-degree murder in a PowerPoint presentation, showing evidence the jury had heard in the preceding six days under each to illustrate how Butler should be found guilty on the more serious charge.
Davidson said the case was simple
good that José has done to make our society more tolerant and accepting of all people.”
Associated Study Body Adviser Robert Sewell, who is the director of marketing and public information officer for Victor Valley College, had told the B.A.R. in a phone interview Monday that the proper channels for naming a facility on campus had not been followed in the case of the resource center. Any naming proposals must be presented to a campus committee then the administration and ultimately be voted on by the board of trustees, none of which occurred with the resource center naming, he said.
“It has to go through the process, and that includes the board of trustees. It can’t be done without their knowledge, let’s put it that way,” said Sewell, who told the B.A.R. he only learned about the proposed naming in recent days.
Asked if the student center could eventually be named in honor of Sarria, Sewell didn’t rule it out. He reiterated that a formal naming proposal for it must be presented to the college via its outlined process for naming facilities on campus.
“I am sure the topic you just brought up will be addressed, but I can’t speak on their behalf,” said Sewell about seeing the board take up a request to name the center for Sarria. He again stressed for that to happen, “the process can’t be skipped.”
At a bare minimum, said Murray Ramirez, the college leadership owes the community and its students an apology for how the naming of the new center has been mishandled.
“Maybe there are reasons that are legitimate; I don’t know what may be legitimate reasons,” said Murray Ramirez about naming the facility on
would put any student at risk of “scrutiny and harassment” should they be “perceived as not conforming to sex stereotypes.” It would also violate students’ privacy, opening up female athletes to “invasive personal questions” in order for them to compete.
“School sports play a significant role in many young people’s learning and development, helping them to develop critical life skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership. Partici-
“They [law enforcement] would not believe her because of who she is: because she’s a young, Black, trans sex worker, and sadly because of what he did to Ms. Butler, because of what he put her through and what he said to her and what he did to her.”
Through the course of the case, the victim’s alleged beliefs that he was under a voodoo spell were discussed, as was a diagnosis of schizophrenia and testimony from other sex workers about past interactions with him. The defense also questioned law enforcement about nicknaming Butler “Tootsie Roll” and using that as the name of the operation to arrest her.
Defense Attorney David Rizk agreed there was a cover-up but alleged it was the government’s for not adequately investigating the case and, in an animated closing argument, said the federal government doesn’t listen to people like Butler.
“He isolated her for a reason,” Rizk said, referring to the drive from the Tenderloin district where he’d picked her up to the dark Presidio parking lot where the killing took place. “He took her there to get his sex for free, to sexually assault her, to put her in fear. He never intended to pay. He was never going to pay, and the trouble began when she would not go along with it.”
Rizk had argued that Butler’s gender identity and race played into the investigative actions taken by law enforcement working the case.
“This FBI, this federal government, didn’t even bother to look,” he said.
behalf of Sarria. “The way they handled this was very disrespectful and hurtful to the students, to the courts, and to the Sarria foundation.”
A post on Facebook earlier this month had noted that the college had been working in partnership with the Sarria foundation, the Imperial Court, WOW Clinic, St. John’s Wellness Center, the High Desert Pride Center, and Film Bliss Studios, on the grand opening for the center, which will provide essential resources for LGBTQ+ students and allies.
The B.A.R. had first reported on the naming honor for Sarria online March 26 in its News Brief column.
The next day the local newspaper in Victorville published a story about the opening plans and name for the LGBTQ student center.
The article noted that it would be the first of its kind to open in the Victor Valley region. It also reported that the center is being funded via a $10 million state allocation toward supporting LGBTQ+ students at community colleges across California.
According to Brake, it was a showing on campus of the 2021 documentary “Nelly Queen: The Life and Times of José Sarria” that had inspired the GSA members to vote in support of naming the center in honor of Sarria. He said he first learned about the naming honor on March 17 when the foundation received an invite to attend the opening ceremony.
“I find it difficult to believe the college board was not aware and never raised a concern about it until the news article came out in their local press,” said Brake, who said he found the naming snafu “very weird.”
While the foundation doesn’t need an apology, Brake said, “I do think it logical they would extend an
pation in sports is also linked to better academic outcomes, improved confidence and self-esteem, and lower levels of stress and anxiety,” noted the ACLU’s state-based organization. “Transgender girls, like all students, deserve the same opportunity to learn these valuable skills and build a sense of belonging with their peers. [AB 89] would discriminate against transgender girls and prohibit them from playing school sports, even if they have been living as girls, and re-
The jury began deliberations March 26. On March 27, the court reconvened, as the jury asked the court to define, in layman’s terms, the legal term-of-art “malice aforethought,” which is a prong necessary for a second-degree murder conviction, but not necessary for a voluntary manslaughter conviction. Illston responded that the only definition the court could give was that given in the jury instructions.
To kill with malice aforethought means to kill either deliberately and intentionally, or “recklessly with extreme disregard for human life,” according to the instructions.
After the verdict, Illston thanked the jurors for their service.
“You did one of the hardest things we ask someone to do – to sit in judgment of one another,” she said.
Sentencing was set for June 27. t
Cynthia Laird contributed reporting.
apology to the GSA for not following through with what they wanted to do or raising concern about it far earlier.”
Brake told the B.A.R. he remains hopeful of seeing the college board approve the naming of the center for Sarria in the future. He has offered to return to the college, about a twohour drive for him, to speak in support of the proposal.
“I am hopeful that as they learn more about the contributions of José and his impact on especially young Latinos, knowing their demographics there, they will see it is helpful and would be a positive,” said Brake.
The Building 30 in which the LGBTQ resource center will be located is to be renovated at some point, noted Sewell, and have a second story added to it for additional classroom space. He said the center is slated to remain in it once the work is complete, but funding for the project still needs to be allocated.
Gaytan had told the B.A.R. the GSA still wants to find a way for the center to celebrate Sarria, a trailblazing advocate and the first openly gay candidate to run for public office in 1961, when he unsuccessfully sought a seat on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. At Friday’s ceremony, Murray Ramirez will now present the students with a bust of Sarria that the court system paid an artist $350 to create of the civil rights leader that they can display in the new facility.
“Obviously, it is not right to penalize the LGBTQ students who had that courage,” said Murray Ramirez, to want to honor Sarria.
The opening celebration will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Friday at Building 30, located on the campus at 18422 Bear Valley Road. t
ceiving treatment for gender dysphoria, for years.”
In addition to covering school sports teams, Essayli’s AB 844 would also have required that a pupil’s use of facilities, including bathrooms, locker rooms, showers, and overnight accommodations, as well as their student housing at postsecondary institutions be based upon the pupil’s sex assigned at birth. t
<< Saria
The prosecution and defense teams appeared in federal court during opening statements March 17. Defendant Leniyah Butler is at right, wearing mask.
Vicki Behringer
the Washington Blade, and Windy City Times.
New affiliate members stated they welcomed the partnership.
“There is such collective power to queer newsrooms working together, and that power is especially and acutely needed right now,” stated Ken Schneck, The Buckeye Flame founder. “The Buckeye Flame is proud to be a part of News is Out’s vital efforts to amplify LGBTQ+ individuals and issues.”
Added Jim Yarbrough, publisher of Qnotes Carolinas, “Qnotes is pleased and excited to be a member of News is Out and looks forward to working with legacy LGBTQ+ media veterans throughout the country as well as a great group of media professionals at the Local Media Association.”
Leo Cusimano, owner of the Dallas Voice, stated he is looking forward to expanding the collaboration’s efforts and mission.
“At a time when independent queer media is more vital than ever, expanding our collaborative means we can uplift even more voices, share resources, and strengthen the future of LGBTQ+ media,” he stated. “We’re thrilled to welcome our new partners and excited for the impact we can make together.”
Applications open for next SF drag laureate
When Daniel Lurie was running for San Francisco mayor last year, he responded to the B.A.R.’s question about whether he would support the city’s drag laureate position with one word: Absolutely. Now, Lurie is the mayor and has announced that applications are open for the next drag laureate, as D’Arcy Drollinger’s historic inaugural tenure is coming to an end.
Drollinger was named to the position in May 2023 by then-mayor London Breed. The job of drag laureate is to elevate and support drag artistry as well as the city’s LGBTQ
overpayment issues.
place for those alleged to have received overpayments, including the availability of waivers, reasonable payment plans, and rights to challenge determinations of overpayment, so as not to create additional economic hardship for them,” she continued.
Aguilar stated that Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund didn’t return his inquiry, that Legal Assistance to the Elderly told him that he is too young for their aid; and that both PRC and the AIDS Legal Referral Panel don’t handle
Legals>>
must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: APRIL 08, 2025, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF
FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25-559615 To all interested persons, the Petitioner ELIZABETH
filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name MAX DECKER HUFFMAN to proposed name MAX STEPHAN HUFFMAN. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: APRIL 10, 2025, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St.,
Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed,
Spokespeople for Pelosi and Schiff told the B.A.R. April 1 that they don’t comment on ongoing constituent case matters.
Aguilar acknowledged he’d received emailed communications from Schiff’s office and a call from Pelosi’s office before he came to a decision April 1 to seek legal services.
While he was in Washington, D.C. that day for AIDSWatch 2025, Aguilar said he received a call from the Social Security Administration.
“They left a voicemail saying they had received an inquiry from my congres-
nightlife. The idea for a drag laureate was born from San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ Cultural Heritage Strategy, the revised version of which was released in 2020. Lurie stated in a news release that it’s important to maintain the position.
“The spirit of our arts, our culture, being able to love who you want to love, and be your full self is what makes San Francisco beautiful,” Lurie stated. “The LGBTQ+ community has always been a pillar of that spirit. D’Arcy has done an amazing job serving as San Francisco’s first drag laureate, and I am thrilled that we are celebrating and honoring queer artistry and voice by opening the application
sional district office and … they would call me back,” Aguilar said.
He hasn’t yet selected an attorney, saying he is fielding several options.
“I’m not answering anything they ask without advice from a lawyer,” he said, referring to the Social Security Administration.
The Social Security Administration didn’t return a request for comment for this report.
The news comes as the government agency that administers the popular entitlement program is in the sights of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, which has started putting to-
BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
2025-0405786
to proposed name JEFFERSON LIEU. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: MARCH 25, 2025, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME IN SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN FRANCISCO CASE NUMBER CNC-25-559633
To all interested persons, the Petitioner SARAH
JEAN LEIGHT filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: present name SARAH JEAN LEIGHT to proposed name SARAH JEAN TOSCHI. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: APRIL 17, 2025, 9:00 am, Dept. 103N, Rm. 103N, Superior Court of California, 400 McAllister St., San Francisco, CA 94102. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405743
The following person(s) is/are doing business as ONE LEGACY CLEANING SERVICES, 107 LOBOS ST #5, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed by BRENDA CORTEZ. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on N/A. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/25/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405751
The following person(s) is/are doing business as INTEGR8 EDUCATION, 1875 MISSION ST STE 103 #213, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94103. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed by RENEE LOUISE FRANZWA. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/06/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/25/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405488 The following person(s) is/are doing business as ROT STUDIOS, 466 BARTLETT ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94110. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed by HANNAH SCHEERER. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 11/25/2024. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 01/28/2025.
process for our next drag laureate.”
Drollinger stated that she has enjoyed her tenure.
“This June, I will be passing the torch to a new drag laureate, and I couldn’t be more excited for what the future holds,” she stated.
Gay San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman, who represents the Castro, stated the need for a “fierce and fabulous drag laureate to instigate and inspire is greater than ever.”
The drag laureate program is a collaboration between the mayor’s office, San Francisco Public Library, San Francisco Human Rights Commission, and the Office of Transgender Initiatives, the release noted.
The city invites applications from passionate individuals who are fulltime residents of San Francisco; have a strong understanding of the city’s rich drag history; and have experience in community activism, engagement, or philanthropy, the release stated.
The drag laureate will be announced in May, with a three-year term beginning in June. The drag laureate will be provided with a $105,000 stipend ($35,000 annually) to support their work through the library over the course of the term.
“Representation matters and this laureate position ensures that the drag community is recognized, honored, and celebrated in our libraries and throughout the city,” stated Mi-
gether a plan to migrate Social Security’s computer systems off one of its oldest programming languages. Wired magazine (https://www.wired.com/story/ doge-rebuild-social-security-administration-cobol-benefits/) reported that could put the integrity of the systems at risk.
The agency has also responded to rumors that field offices may be closed.
The Social Security Administration stated unequivocally in a news release that “recent reports in the media that the Social Security Administration (SSA) is permanently closing local field offices are false. Since January 1, 2025, the agen-
chael Lambert, the city librarian. Applications are due Sunday, April 13. Upon the closure of the application period, a review panel will be formed composed of LGBTQ community leaders, drag artists, and city officials. To apply and for more information, go to sf.gov/drag.
City of Santa Clara has commission openings
The City of Santa Clara in the South Bay is seeking applicants to fill 11 vacancies on several city commissions and committees.
There are five full terms ending June 30, 2029, on the following commissions/committees: Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee (two), Cultural Commission (one), Historical and Landmarks Commission (two) and the Parks & Recreation Commission (one).
There are five partial terms on the Senior Advisory Commission: three ending June 30, 2026, one ending June 30, 2027, and one ending June 30, 2028. The Cultural Commission has one partial term ending June 30, 2028.
Applications are due to the City Clerk’s Office Friday, April 25, at 5 p.m. Applications are available at SantaClaraCA.gov/Commissions or in-person at the City Clerk’s Office, 1500 Warburton Avenue. For questions, contact clerk@santaclaraca.gov or call (408) 615-2220. t
cy has not permanently closed or announced the permanent closure of any local field office. From time to time, SSA must temporarily close a local field office for reasons such as weather, damage, or facilities issues, and it reopens when the issues are resolved. The agency has announced the permanent closure of one hearing office, in White Plains, NY.” Lee Dudek, acting commissioner, stated, “SSA is committed to providing service where people need help and our local field offices are no exception. We have not permanently closed any local field offices this year.” t
following person(s) is/are doing business as LITTLE SUNSHINE CHILDCARE, 308 JULES AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94112. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed by TAO HUANG. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 12/08/2011. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/28/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405791
The following person(s) is/are doing business as J&K INTERNATIONAL TRADING COMPANY, 425 GRANT AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed by JIANMEI ZHANG. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 02/10/2010. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/03/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405789
The following person(s) is/are doing business as PALOU CHECK CASHING, 4850 3RD ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed by AHMED ABEDELAL. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 08/03/1995. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/03/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405790
The following person(s) is/are doing business as SONYA LO; SONYA LO PILATES & POSTURE, 192 MADDUX AVE, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94124. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed by SUCHIU LO. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 08/31/2019. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/03/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405809
The following person(s) is/are doing business as J&E INTERPRETING SERVICES, 230 N LAKE MERCED HLS UNIT 4D, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94132. This business is conducted by an individual, and is signed by WENDY HO. The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 03/12/2020. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 03/04/2025. MAR 06,
ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed by SF HOUSE OF NAILS POLK INC (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/12/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405769
The following person(s) is/are doing business as AJ & CO., 870 B TARAVAL ST, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94116. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed by EMPRESS REAL ESTATE INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 01/01/2025. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/27/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405694
The following person(s) is/are doing business as BEN & JERRY’S SAN FRANCISCO, 41 PIER, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed by CHATZKA’S INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 09/01/1992. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/21/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20, 27, 2025
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE 2025-0405695
The following person(s) is/are doing business as ESS EFF GIFT SHOP, PIER 43 ½, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94133. This business is conducted by a corporation, and is signed by ALCATRAZ ENTERPRISES INC. (CA). The registrant(s) commenced to transact business under the above listed fictitious business name or names on 04/01/2010. The statement was filed with the City and County of San Francisco, CA on 02/21/2025. MAR 06, 13, 20,
San Francisco drag laureate D’Arcy Drollinger snapped a pic of the crowd at the 2023 San Francisco Pride celebration.
Jane Philomen Cleland
‘Fat Ham’
SF Playhouse serves James Ijames’ feast for the funny bone
by Jim Gladstone
What a piece of work!
Funny, moving, sexy, and smart, San Francisco Playhouse’s production of “Fat Ham,” running through April 19, is the best theater the Bay Area has seen this year. James Ijames’ loose, liberating take on “Hamlet,” winner of the 2022 Pulitzer Prize for drama, is directed by Margo Hall, who helms a perchance-to-dream team. The cast plays with the fractious intimacy of longtime friends and family, and the produc-
tion crew propels them with irresistible assists.
The vivid backyard party setting by scenic designer Nina Ball and prop designer Amy Benjamin; the oft-flamboyant costumes and wigs by Lee Garber-Patel and Amber Loudermilk, lighting by Stephanie Johnson, and sound by Ray Archie, set up and break down the fourth wall in split seconds, are all three-point fabulous.
The big swish at the center of it all is Juicy (Devon A. Cunningham), Ijames’ extrapolated Hamlet, written and played here with an emphasis on moodiness and sass more than agony and vengeance.
Kin and less than kind Juicy is the twentyish heir to a smoked meat misfortune. His misogynist, homophobe father, Pap, recently imprisoned for the murder of an employee at the family’s barbecue joint, has, in turn, been shivved and slaughtered in the pen. Pap’s ghost (resplendent in a sequin-trimmed white tux under bedsheet outerwear) drops by with the news that his misogynist, homophobe brother Rev arranged for the jailhouse killing. He beeseches Juicy to gut his uncle in revenge. Ron Chapman plays both patriarchs with comic bluster and condescension.
by Brian Bromberger
Director Roshan Sethi yearned for a big Indian wedding, a lavish and unashamed expression of love. After years of struggling to come out, he’s finally getting married to a man. However, a Hindu marriage between two men is inconceivable to his mother. So, he decided to portray a gay Indian wedding ceremony for the first time on film.
“A Nice Indian Boy” (Wayfarer Studios) is his fantasy fulfilled. It’s also his personal dream of family acceptance and belonging he’s yet to experience himself. This exuberant film is a touching celebration of conventional romantic love defying expectations, but also family, culture, and generational collision.
Naveen Gavaskar (Karan Soni) is a shy, introverted gay doctor. He’s used dating apps with little luck (one text: “Guess you’ve been eating an apple
‘A Nice Indian Boy’
a day because you’ve kept this doctor away”). His boisterous mother Megha (Zarna Garg), taciturn father Archit (Harish Patel), and married but divorcing indignant sister Arundhathi (Sunit Mani) know and accept he’s gay, but don’t know precisely how to act or be supportive.
He relies primarily on his fellow doctor/bestie Paul (the hilarious Peter S. Kim) to kvetch and tell him the new rules of gay dating, even at one point telling Naveen to ask his mother whether she’s seen “Bros.”
Meet cute?
While worshipping Ganesha (the Hindu god of new beginnings) at a temple, Naveen spots Jay Kurundkar (Jonathan Groff), a white man who grew up in foster care until he was adopted by two now-dead Indian parents. Jay appears the next day as the photographer taking ID pictures of all the hospital staff.
They go on a cringy date, but Naveen is slowly
charmed by Jay’s sincerity, brashness, and overenthusiastic serenading romanticism. After seeing the famous Bollywood musical “DDLJ,” Jay opines, “I think we’re all embarrassed by the bigness of love.” They fall in love, but Jay is upset. “Naveen didn’t tell his family about me, so it’s like I don’t exist.”
One afternoon, they run into Arundhathi’s husband Manish and an embarrassed Naveen describes Jay as a “friend.” This precipitates a discussion about what they both want, with Naveen admitting he dreams of having a big Indian wedding so he can hear the priest’s words, “You are now one soul.”
Jay meets the Gavaskars but it doesn’t go well, since his parents weren’t expecting him to be white. Naveen is caught between his identity with family versus who he is in the world. They fight, questioning everything about the relationship.
Jay observes, “You’re almost apologizing for the
Alas, Uncle Rev has designs on Stepdaddydom. Just a week after Pap’s funeral, he’s married widowed sister-in-law Tedra (Jenn Stephens) and the couple has demanded that Juicy prepare the yard for a nuptial celebration.
His resistance to this festivity is spelled out on the helium balloons he decorates with; in lieu of “Just Married,” they read “Garage Sale” and “Baby Boy.”
But Baby Boy is about to grow up fast. After the arrival of Tedra’s churchy friend, Rabby (Phaedra
inconvenience of existing.” Jay moves out of their flat. Can they reconcile?
The film has its fairy tale aspects, but also sitcom moments. A majority of the movie focuses on Naveen’s family reaction to him and Jay as a couple. They’ve never actually seen Naveen be gay, as he’s never mentioned or brought home a boyfriend.
His mother calls Naveen at work detailing the plot of the film “Milk” which is featured on their new cable station OUTtv they’ve added in a misguided attempt to connect with his gay side and discover what might interest him.
Arundhathi resents her parent’s “acceptance” of Naveen while entertaining invasive questions about whether she’s pregnant. The film is adept at showing the conundrum of first-generation children adopting the free-spirited American mores which clash with traditional Indian values.
Chemistry
“A Nice Indian Boy” is basically an oppositesattract romance between the quiet, bashful, inhibited Naveen and open-hearted, dramatic, extraverted Jay, the dour realist vs. the hopeless romantic. One of the few flaws in the film is that Jay’s character isn’t developed as richly as Naveen. Though, in all fairness, the movie is less about him than how immigrant families adapt to Western/American morality and bridge the cultural divide as well as the trials of being in an interracial relationship. There’s also a nuanced discussion about the virtues of arranged marriages (Naveen’s parents). Despite all this sociological baggage on changing cultural norms, the film retains its humor while avoiding sentimentality.
The film soars on the believable palpable chemistry of the two leads, both of whom are openly gay. Groff’s done award-winning musical comedy Broadway roles, but hasn’t been wellserved on television (including the brief soporific HBO series “Looking”) often coming across as whiny or wishy washy. He finally gets to play a charming confident swooner, yet he’s almost understated due to his fragility related to trauma he experienced in his childhood.
Soni excels at revealing the physical discomforts of Naveen conveying his repressed emotions and the pain of exposing unsaid truths within his family. If ever there was a film that argues for the
Karan Soni & Jonathan Groff in a charming gay rom-com
Opal (Courtney Gabrielle Williams) listens to Juicy (Devin A. Cunningham) in ‘Fat Ham’ at San Francisco Playhouse.
Jessica Palopoli
Sean Dorsey Dance
by David-Elijah Nahmod
For the past twenty years Sean Dorsey Dance has been thrilling audiences with their groundbreaking and exciting moves. This past September the company celebrated its 20th anniversary with a sold out run which featured excerpts from three of the most innovative pieces Dorsey has created and choreographed across the years.
Dorsey and his dancers now return to San Francisco for an encore performance of the 20th anniversary show. Dorsey, who is a transgender man, couldn’t be returning at a more critical time, what with Republican lawmakers ramping up their attacks on the trans community.
Yet Dorsey remains undaunted, proudly wearing his gender identity on his sleeve as he presents dances which celebrate trans history. The performances will take place one weekend only, April 11-13, at Dance Mission Theater.
As he prepares for the weekend, Dorsey took a few minutes to chat with the Bay Area Reporter about the encore show, his recent tour, and the importance of trans visibility.
David-Elijah Nahmod: When you first started Sean Dorsey Dance, did you ever think it would last twenty years?
Sean Dorsey: Oh gosh, I don’t think I ever looked that far into the future. You know, so many trans and queer folks just don’t. For so many generations it was hard for us to imagine a future where we would thrive because we didn’t have any role models like that. But I’m smiling ear to ear as you ask that question, because it feels absolutely amazing to be celebrating this milestone, in spite of all the challenges and isolation and barriers I faced as a trans person in dance. And I’m so grateful to my partner Shawna Virago, my beloved tiny but mighty staff family, and my beloved dancers and collaborators.
Can you say something about the importance of being visible given the current political climate?
20th anniversary concerts return by popular demand
This is an incredibly important time to be proudly, loudly transgender and queer, which me and my company are. Get your tickets now, folks, because this is the artistic medicine you’re probably needing right now. Trans folks are experiencing a state of emergency right now, our most basic civil liberties, our bodily autonomy, our freedom of movement, passports, and our freedom of speech are all under attack.
I think people are really needing and craving to be with community right now, and so it feels really powerful to be offering up this 20th anniversary performance as a raucous, unapologetic, joyous declaration of the worth, beauty and power of our communities.
How did your recent tour go?
Right before we started prepping for this 20th anniversary home season show, we finished a 13-city international tour of our show “The Lost Art of Dreaming.” The tour was extraordinary. We took the show to large cities and small communities, from super urban to super rural. And in every single city after every single performance, we were met with a torrent of love. The audience response to that show was so deep, so emotional, so personal, I think people felt really nourished by
importance of using gay actors in gay roles, “A Nice Indian Boy” can serve as Exhibit A.
The real revelation is scene-stealer Garg, who in India is known as a comic; this is her first dramatic role. Her speech at the movie’s end will have you reaching for the Kleenex. Patel barely registers in the first half of the movie, but shows a surprising emotional range also towards the finale. His scene with Groff in the kitchen will also rip out your heart. You know you have a great company
of actors when the richness of the supporting characters rivals those of the main protagonists. The script by gay screenwriter Eric Randall (who’s planning a wedding with his longtime boyfriend) based on the same-titled play by Madhuri Shekar, manages to infuse all the contradictory feelings that come with a family meeting their gay son’s partner as well as intercultural difficulties, but always humorously and heartwarming without being syrupy. The characters seem real and relatable, not caricatures.
In the press notes, Sethi confesses that his upcoming marriage (which
the work itself, as well as by our presence in their community. People want to see gorgeous dance theater that centers trans lives and queer bodies, stories and aesthetics.
What’s it like to celebrate two decades of making dances?
Our twentieth anniversary home season is super special. For the first time in our entire history, we are revisiting and restaging audience favorites from the last two decades. We’ll perform excerpts from a trilogy of works I created between 2008-2015, which are all based on oral history interviews I recorded with trans and LGBTQI+ elders, and archival research. These works reveal incredibly important parts of trans history and queer history, like our secret histories of love in decades past, or our experiences and resistance during the early AIDS epidemic.
Explain the significance of the piece “Lou” and who Lou Sullivan was.
Lou Sullivan (1951-1991) was a trailblazing gay transman activist, but because he lived and died before the internet, most folks today aren’t learning about him. So much of the richness of trans lives today exists because of Lou. He did some of the first ever
Tillery-Broughton) and her children –Opal (Courtney Gabrielle Williams), an unborn baby dyke just busting to breach, and Larry (Samuel Ademola), a childhood playmate of Juicy’s who is now in the military– unspoken truths spill fast and furious.
As Tedra genuinely opens up to her son rather than reflexively overprotecting him, Stephens deepens her portrayal, revealing that her relentless hip-swiveling sexiness has also been a form of armor. The tenderness and resentments that emerge between Juicy and Larry are heartwrenching.
While customarily held back, there’s a profound empathy shared by the women and adult children here; a deeply felt opposition to the cycle of male aggression and violence that has damaged their families over generations. Facing history about to repeat
his mother has asked not to proceed) is with Soni, so we see how personally the film’s plot mirrors the creators of this rom-com. It’s also obvious these are cherished characters combined with a passion for Indian culture and Bollywood cinema. “A Nice Boy from India” is a very nice, exceptional, enjoyable crowdpleasing queer love story we’ve been waiting for and wanting. t
‘A Nice Indian Boy’ opens April 3 at AMC Kabuki 8 in San Francisco. www.wayfarerstudios.com
these extraordinary diaries, and then recorded a soundscore where I read Lou’s own words. And then I choreographed a suite of dances following Lou’s incredible life.
The piece “The Missing Generation” has a special significance. I created “The Missing Generation” as a love letter to a forgotten generation, survivors of the early part of the AIDS epidemic. To create the show, I spent a year travelling the US to record 75 hours of oral history interviews with LGBTQI+ long time survivors, folks who lived through that excruciating time. We hear survivor’s own words and stories, from heartbreaking to sassy to hilarious. And more than anything, how illuminating for us today to remember and learn from the resistance, resilience and fierce activism of these folks.
research and publishing about trans history, he started the first support groups for trans-masc folks, he fought a long battle with the medical community so that queer-identified trans people could get access to gender affirming care, the list goes on. And he corresponded with letters of support to literally hundreds of trans people around the world, long before the internet, cell phones or any real support for our people.
Before Lou died of AIDS complications, and because he knew he was dying soon, Lou worked hard to organize and bequeath his lifelong diaries to the GLBT Historical Society. I spent a year reading and transcribing
itself in Rev and Tedra’s relationship. They end up celebrating themselves instead of the doomed marriage.
Soul of wit
In a similarly jovial mode, playwright Ijames refrains from overemphasizing the underbelly of his story; likewise with his many clever “Hamlet” references. They provide bonus laughs, but no obstacle to those unfamiliar with the Shakespeare original. That said, turning the Bard’s play-within-a-play into a game of charades is a bit of genius.
The playwright has also stocked his party with a killer soundtrack, including Teena Marie, Luther Vandross, Cece Peniston, and not-of-Denmark Prince. He gives Cunningham a karaoke soliloquy of Radiohead’s “Creep” that’s simultaneously selfglorifying and self-indulgent, a gleefully perverse ode to otherness.
For most of its 90-minute run time, “Fat Ham” is dominated by comedy.
Please tell me about the piece “The Secret History of Love.” I recorded oral history interviews with the most amazing trans and LGBTQI+ elders, asking them, “tell me about your first crush,” and “tell me how you managed to meet lovers, or find community in decades past, when it was literally illegal to gather in public?” We hear these elders’ voices and remarkable real-life stories, and we dance to them.
What do you hope the audience will take from these performances?
Well, this show is seriously gorgeous. It’s full-throttle, deeply human, technically precise, beautiful dance. And trans and queer beauty is resistance.t
Sean Dorsey Dance: 20th Anniversary Home Season, April 11 and 12, 8pm; April 13, 4pm (includes ASL interpretation). Dance Mission Theater, 3316 24th St. $5-$50 sliding scale. KN95 masks required and provided. Wheelchair accessible, all-gender restrooms. www.dancemissiontheater.or www.seandorseydance.com
Tillery-Broughton’s Phaedra, whose suit, feathered hat, and lipstick are a matching shade of pink, has all the “Hallelujah!” moves one sees in the pews, even when she’s planted on a picnic bench. When other characters blaspheme, she corkscrews her face like a cherub who’s smelled a fart. And while Juicy’s stoner pal Teo is somewhat peripheral to the plot, Jordan Covington plays him like a grace note personified. His ear-to-ear smile, goofy gait, and delicious comic timing are sincere, endearing, and gently charismatic. You walk away humming this guy.
“Fat Ham” serves up a version of the meaty, laugh-out-loud, socially conscious comedy that was once a television staple. It’s “Hamlet” by way of King Norman Lear.t
“Fat Ham,” through April 19. $35-$135. San Francisco Playhouse, 450 Post St. www.sfplayhouse.org
<< Fat Ham From page 13
(L-R) Devin A. Cunningham, Samuel Ademola, Courtney Gabrielle Williams and Phaedra Tillery-Boughton in “’at Ham’
Jessica Palopoli
Zarna Garg and Harish Patel in ‘A Nice Indian Boy’ Wayfarer Studios
<< A Nice Indian Boy
From page 13
Choreographer Sean Dorsey
Lydia Daniller
Sean Dorsey Dance company performs at a recent concert.
Kegan Marling
by Gregg Shapiro
While we continue the struggle to fight censorship and mass idiocy from the White House, new albums by independent queer artists should appeal and provide inspiration. Check out new sounds from Bob Mould Lucy Dacus, jasmine.4.t and Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory.
Three must be Bob Mould’s lucky number. Via trios such as Hüsker Dü and Sugar, Mould built an enviable and devoted following, made even more so because he is an out gay musician. While he began releasing albums under his own name in 1989, since 2012’s “Silver Age,” he’s been recording and performing as a trio along with Jason Narducy and Jon Wurster.
Mould has said of his new album, “Here We Go Crazy” (Granary Music/BMG), his first since 2020’s “Blue Hearts,” that it consists of “a number of contrasting themes. Control and chaos, hypervigilance and helplessness, uncertainty and unconditional love.”
This is something that comes through loud and clear on “Your Side,” “Sharp Little Pieces,” and “You Need To Shine,” giving the album the feel of a statement on the current state of the world.
For example, in “Sharp Little Pieces,” Mould sings, “Are you headed to the demonstration? Eyes are open wide. Be the martyr of a generation, I tried.”
The song “Neanderthal” is one of his sexiest, with its references to “sweat and cum,” “leash and collar,” and “paint.” Known for his blazing electric guitar work, Mould tones things down on the acoustic “Lost or Stolen” and a little more than half of “Your Side.”
Bob Mould performs on Apr. 5 in San Francisco at The Fillmore. www.bobmould.com
In 2016, when Tim Kaine was Hilary Clinton’s running mate, he revealed in a New York Times opinion piece that queer singer/songwriter and fellow Virginian Lucy Dacus was one of his favorite artists, just a few months after her debut album was released.
Since then, Kaine has faded from memory while Dacus has become ubiquitous in the best possible ways. She released “Historian” in 2018 and “Home Video” in 2021, both of which were well-received.
Perhaps most significantly, she teamed up with queer singer/songwriter Phoebe Bridgers and Julien Baker to form Boygenius, releasing a debut EP in 2018, followed by a 2023 full-length album which earned the trio three Grammy Awards.
Right from the start, “Forever Is a Feeling” (Geffen), Dacus’ new LP (available on clear vinyl) feels different, beginning with the instrumental “Calliope prelude.” There is a lushness to “Big Deal,” the sexy “Ankles” and “Best Guess,” that come across like a warm embrace.
“Limerence,” with its piano flourishes and cabaret-style vocals, is as dramatic as it is daring.
“Come Out” is Dacus’ most Aimee Mann-esque tune, and the very definition of a highlight. And when Dacus switches sonic course, as she does on “Talk,” “Modigliani,” and “Most Want-
ed Man,” she reinforces the reasons we were drawn to her in the first place.
www.lucydac.us
Currently enjoying heavy rotation on Sirius XMU, the song “Guy Fawkes Tesco Dissociation,” a musical response to a panic attack, is from “You Are The Morning” (Saddest Factory) from the debut album by British band jasmine.4.t
Produced by Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus (formerly known as the aforementioned Boy-
genius), and led by trans vocalist Jasmine Cruickshank, the album feels like watching the sun rise over the horizon. Radiant songs such the title track, “Skin on Skin,” “Breaking In Reverse,” “Roan,” “Highfield,” “Kitchen,” and “Best Friend’s House,” illuminate an artist who might just be the most important trans voice in music since Anohni or Laura Jane Grace.
www.jasmine4t.com
The brilliant Sharon Van Etten has a history of working with queer
artists, including Hercules and Love Affair and Xiu Xiu. So, it’s not all that surprising that on her new eponymous album, Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory, she would feature trans musician Devra Hoff in her band.
Whether intentional or not, album opener “Live Forever,” with its question, “Who wants to live forever?”, is sure to bring Queen and Freddie Mercury to mind. Van Etten and company shift gears on the synth beat and keyboard-driven “I Can’t
Imagine (Why You Feel This Way),” “Afterlife,” and “Idiot Box.” “Indio,” the album’s shortest song, rocks the hardest, while album closers “Fading Beauty” and “I Want You Here,” each clocking in at more than six minutes apiece, take the whole affair in another direction.
Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory perform on May 23 at August Hall in San Francisco and on May 24 at BottleRock Napa Valley at Napa Valley Expo.
www.sharonvanetten.comt
Modern families
by Victoria A. Brownworth
The debut of the Hulu original series “Mid-Century Modern” on March 28 could not have been more perfect. We totally needed this fabulous new series about three gay men of a certain age who decide to live together in Palm Springs a la “The Golden Girls” to live out their lives as found queer family. If it sounds good, it is.
“Mid-Century Modern” is a 10episode series created by Matt Mutchnick and David Kohan. Mutchnick and Kohan also created the groundbreaking series “Will & Grace,” which ran for eight seasons from 1998 to through 2006, then returned for three more seasons from 2017 through 2020. “Will & Grace” is credited with introducing America to gay life. The series won several Emmys and was a hit for years.
“Mid-Century Modern” is destined to have similar impact at a time when the current administration is trying to erase LGBTQ people altogether.
In “Mid-Century Modern,” Bunny Schneiderman (Nathan Lane) lives with his mother Sybil (award-winning actress Linda Lavin in her final role) in Palm Springs where he is a bra entrepreneur. After a sudden tragedy, Bunny invites his friends Jerry Frank (Matt Bomer) and Arthur Broussard (Nathan Lee Graham) to live with him. Hilarity ensues, with a touch of pathos and moments of deep seriousness. Lane is, as always, incredibly funny. His delivery is pitch-perfect as it was
when he played Pepper in a recurring role on “Modern Family.” Lavin has great comedic timing as she witnesses what her son and his friends are doing and delivers her scathing commentary.
“Mid-Century Modern” is full of fabulousness. Matt Bomer’s hot good looks seem to only get better with age. The multi-award nominated actor is now 47. You want to watch this series.
Women’s issues
On the final day of Women’s History Month, “An Oprah Winfrey
Rabbett at his death.
Chamberlain was an iconic figure on TV and in musical theater on Broadway and also had several hit records. With his stunning good looks, Chamberlain became an instant heartthrob after he debuted as the handsome young intern “Dr. Kildare” in 1961. The TV series ran for five seasons and 191 episodes. Chamberlain received thousands of fan letters a week.
But it was in the 1980s that Chamberlain hit a new stride as he became king of the miniseries, starting with the epic “Shogun” in 1980, for which he was nominated for both the Emmy and Golden Globe awards, and then the sprawling generational drama, “The Thornbirds” in 1983, about a Catholic priest torn between his ambition and his love for a woman.
Special: The Menopause Revolution” aired on ABC March 31 with streaming on Hulu from April 1. The 71-year-old talk show doyenne has been addressing intense topics in similar specials recently, including weight loss drugs and artificial intelligence. With Oscar winners Halle Berry and Naomi Watts, journalist Maria Shriver and several doctors, Oprah takes on one of the biggest life changes women face and how little is discussed about it. The range of experience of menopause, the available treatments for it, the way in which it impacts sexuality, is pure Oprah. The show explores all the aspects in clear language with people who have experienced it and are treating it.
Mushrooming
Williams is always magnificent in every role. Her ability to make Molly’s journey –which could be tragic– into a celebration of life, is extraordinary. The series premieres April 4.
Farewells
Finally, Richard Chamberlain died March 29, just two days before his 91st birthday, from complications of a stroke at his home in Hawaii. He was with his life partner, Martin
Chamberlain was forced to hide his gay identity throughout the majority of his career, but came out publicly at 69 in his memoir, “Shattered Love.” Later, in interviews he would talk about how there was no way for actors of his generation to be out. Yet in coming out publicly, he spoke to the issues faced by him and other actors of that era and that definitely took a measure of bravery to break that silence.
So, for all the things, both the light and the dark, you know you really must stay tuned.t
Read the full column, with trailers and clips, on www.ebar.com.
The highly anticipated season two of the dystopian post-apocalyptic drama “The Last of Us” returns April 13 on HBO MAX. This season begins five years after the last ended, with Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey) navigating their rocky relationship after Joel lied to Ellie at the end of last season. This season Ellie has a romantic relationship with Dina (Isabela Merced), which helps her navigate the brutal nature of what they face.
Ramsey’s breakthrough role was as Lyanna Mormont in “Game of Thrones” for which she was nominated for an Emmy, Golden Globe and BAFTA (the British Emmys).Ramsey previously came out as non-binary, though they say they are not rigid about pronouns.
In an interview with British Vogue, Ramsey has revealed she is on the autism spectrum. The 21-year-old was diagnosed at 18 as autistic during the first season of “The Last of Us.” A devout Christian, Ramsey credits her faith with helping her navigate her autism and previously a battle with anorexia.
Of her sexuality, Ramsey says they are not entirely straight. “I’m a bit wavy.” Such revelations by an actor of Ramsey’s caliber and popularity are brave and offer others a role model for coming out about their own neurodivergence.
Love or death
“Dying for Sex,” the new FX dramedy for Hulu, is based on the true story of podcaster Nikki Boyer’s friend Molly who, when diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, decides to leave her husband of 15 years and their unhappy marriage to explore her sexuality in all its range and fluidity.
The series stars Oscar winner Michelle Williams as Molly and Jenny Slate as Nikki. Oscar winner Sissy Spacek is in the recurring cast.
Oprah Winfrey ABC
Nathan Lane, Matt Bomer and Nathan Lee Graham in ‘Mid-Century Modern’ Hulu
Neal King’s ‘Trauma Is a Thief’ A transformational journey
by Laura Moreno
F
ormer professor, university president and licensed psychologist Neal King, PhD recently published “Trauma Is a Thief,” his candid new memoir that seeks to make sense of the damaging abuse he suffered as a child.
King explores the pieces of his life using all available evidence to try to comprehend the hidden sexual abuse within his family. In seeking to understand, he approaches it like a detective to gain a larger picture of the generational emotional programming at work. Hi story contains many insights into abusers, the effects of abuse, and survivor’s guilt.
“Whatever its form or context, trauma is invariably a thief,” he writes. “It steals something essential from you that you can never fully recover.”
Misery
King writes that it’s strange to realize that as a young man his father Roy belonged to the last generation of Irish men to still be seen as inferior, “a line of angry Irish men with chips on their shoulders about life not having been fair to them.”
That fact made even more poignant in light of history. “It’s of course a huge leap from the ancient and hallowed kings of the west of Ireland, the ancestral line of legend of the King family,” he writes.
As a boy, his father had to “shamefully scrounge along the railroad tracks for bits of coal to help keep the family warm, and of there often being not enough for the family to eat.”
But his mother’s family, of English extraction, did not have to endure such indignities during the Great Depression, despite also being uneducated and working class. While his mother was not abusive, she had no idea what was going on and was utterly unable to protect her children.
It is worth recalling that purely due to geography, Ireland was the only European country to be completely enslaved.
There seems to be an inverse definition of manhood operating in families like the author’s. Predatory males see manhood as offering them the prerogative to “do as they will,” immaturely catering to their most base instincts, the exact opposite of traditional manhood (code of chivalry) whose goal is to support and protect one’s family.
This book pulls no punches. It documents the predator’s methods in full detail, which may be too graphic for some readers.
King writes, “I have knowledge at this writing of male childhood sexual abuse having afflicted three of the brothers’ families, within the family, in my generation — which leads me to suspect strongly that there is a much larger story to be told than I have the information to tell here. My father, as far as I know, was the only brother to have perpetrated sexual abuse.”
The first time his father sexually abused him was when King was 12 years old. It happened in his father’s cabin on-board his Naval flagship where Roy was division commander.
“His face was grotesque, distorted by lust; I had never seen such an expression,” King observes.
Immediately afterward, King recalls they went to lunch in the officer’s wardroom.
“Looking back, I am stunned at his shamelessness and ability to compartmentalize.”
This event marked the beginning of a decade of absolute misery for young Neale King.
Just as the family hierarchy opened the door to horrific abuse, King discovered that Church hierarchy was no different. As a teen, he
attended a Catholic seminary. While most monks and priests were honorable men, he was surprised that he alone could see through the motives of a teaching monk who maintained a communal house of young
clergy accused of being molesters in the lawsuits against the Catholic Church.
Healing It may be counter-intuitive, but serving as a conscientious objector in conjunction with the Vietnam War was a healing experience for the author.
King served as an English teacher in Laos during the war. He was in Cambodia when Nixon and Kissinger decided to attack it in 1970, and witnessed the tragedy of a country transformed overnight from a fun-loving one into a war-torn one.
About his time in Southeast Asia, King was able to protect several innocent young men from an American predator named Roy, like his father. He remembers being “warmly embraced by a people who were loving, kind, compassionate, and generous. Both were deeply healing — in ways I didn’t fully understand then that I sorely needed.”
Notably, one of the author’s students gifted him a hand-carved animal bone “Buddha…to protect me in my travels with a handmade border and gold chain… I still wear and treasure this gift today.”
Like Neal King’s first book “Speaking Our Truth: Voices of Courage and Healing for Male Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse” (1995), “Trauma Is a Thief” is also a book to heal a broken world. t
‘Trauma Is a Thief’ by Neal King, $21.95. www.halopublishing.com
seminarians. More recently, King’s instincts were confirmed when the monk’s name was prominent among the
Author Neal King
Spring books 2025 round-up, part 1
by Jim Piechota
There are lots and lots of new books in the literary pipeline to choose from this spring for every color on the personality rainbow and beyond. If you’re desperate to take a breather from all the negative political press, grab one of the new books we will be highlighting in our Spring Books Round-Up series. Books and reading can make a world of difference!
FICTION
“A Thing Is Only Known When It Is Gone” by Joe Baumann;
$18.95 (Univ. of Wisconsin)
Experimental and surreal, Baumann latest collection of short fiction pushes the boundaries of queer reality and infuses the extraordinary into the ordinary. Tucked masterfully into these twenty stories are characters with serious corporeal issues. Some who wake up in a panic after discovering their left hand has vanished; or after finding a mysterious, blooming “splotch” lodged in between their pecs after a night of passion; or smiling after a sweet morning text message when the water coursing through a man’s veins “feels a touch warmer, like a faucet in his heart has finally clicked toward hot.”
There is bizarre and then there is beautiful all wrapped together in Baumann’s impressive collection, which culminates in a brilliantly realized final story populated by two retired superheroes who move into an abandoned nursing home and find themselves interviewed by an inquisitive journalist. These immensely creative stories are crafted with a flair for the fantastic. Don’t miss this one. www.uwpress.wisc.edu
“Shelby’s Vacation” by Nancy Beverly $19.95 (Henry Gray Publishing)
Initially written as a feature-length screenplay and eventually emerging as a 40-minute prize-winning short film in 2016, Beverly’s energetic novel about self-discovery, love, and identity chronicles the travels of Shelby, a lesbian woman nursing the wounds of unrequited love and a past filled with regret and unrealized desire. She finds herself traversing through the southeastern California desert and up into the Sierra Nevada mountains where, tucked into the mountainous terrain, is the Sierra Glen Cabins where she meets Carol, the business manager and dynamic innkeeper.
Though their initial attraction is palpable, both women struggle with painful histories and frequently flashbacked, bittersweet memories, and each must work through them to truly heal in order to discover what might possibly be blossoming just beneath the surface of all that trauma. Could it be love?
Decorated with black-and-white photographs peppered throughout the novel, this cleverly narrated, heartwarming, character driven story brims with good-natured characters and atmospheric scenery based on real California high country locations. For some lighthearted but extremely engaging feel-good storytelling about lesbians on the hunt for love and belonging, seek out Nancy Beverly’s easy, breezy, and thoroughly enjoyable debut.
www.henrygraypublishing.com
“Futbolista”
by Jonny Garza Villa
$16.99 (Levine Querido)
Author Garza Villa is better known for young adult novels like last year’s “Canto Contigo” and “Ander & Santi Were Here,” but this year, he breaks out into adult fiction territory with this outstanding story about a group of college classmates and their surprising revelations about identity and sexuality.
Gabi Pina is a freshman at Texas A&M and a star soccer player with the kind of immense potential that even ESPN has begun recognizing. But while pretty classmate Leana catches his eye, it is the lips of handsome philosophy major Vale who excites him most when they kiss on a dare at a frat party.
This sexual spark ignites a conflict deep inside Gabi and he must choose between following his true heart and going for the gold in the sports arena. This tale of self-discovery, soccer, and sweet coming-of-age love is written with passion and a true sense of desire and longing as a boy comes out and makes the right choices for himself.
www.levinequerido.com
“A World Worth Saving” by Kyle Lukoff
$17.89 (Dial Books)
Prolific YA trans author Lukoff sets his latest triumphant novel in the realm of fantasy and sets the action in 2023 where 14-year-old Ashkenazi Jewish transgender youth, A Izenson, discovers he has magical powers and must save the world from demonic forces bent on eradicating queer and questioning kids.
A’s parents are determined to “rescue” him from his identity struggles by way of a conversion therapy group called “Save Our Sons and Daughters,”
which causes his only friend Yarrow to tragically vanish. While investigating his friend’s disappearance on his own, a mystical golem appears to assist him and protect him from harm.
The magical being also draws out A’s powers to save those from certain doom, which comes in handy when rescuing lesbian friend Sal from a soul-devouring demon. Incorporating themes of heroism, identity, abuse, transphobia, and the struggle of trans youth in contemporary society, Lukoff, again, comes out swinging with this brilliant tale of resilient trans youth and their fight for survival.
www.penguinrandomhouse.com
NONFICTION
“Hello, Stranger: Musings on Modern Intimacies” by Manuel Betancourt
Queer culture analyst Betancourt’s 2023 book “The Male Gazed” was a memorably personal exploration of how popular culture shaped his sexual identity and queer desire. In his latest, he tackles the spark and the thrill of intimate encounters through a series of ponderous, insightful essays.
Referencing a variety of print and digital media resources, Betancourt, a self-described “shameless flirt,” examines how fleeting encounters with strangers can evoke yearning, shame, desire, love, danger, recklessness, and, best of all, explosive carnal release. Queer male readers will certainly find something recognizable in these pages. Grab it while it’s hot!
www.books.catapult.co
“Cleavage: Men, Women, and the Space Between Us” by Jennifer Finney Boylan $29 (Celadon)
Author of more than thirteen books, Boylan’s dynamic new essay collection delves into her experiences as a transwoman more than twenty years after she transitioned. Serving as a bookend to her national bestselling memoir “She’s Not There,” this release examines the differences she’s observed in her years living as a man, and now, as a woman, and how her transition has alleviated a lot of confusion and internal conflict, but it has not cured all of the longing and sadness living deep within her. She also writes about her own daughter’s gender transition and the
implications of what that means for her, as a mother. An effortlessly entertaining prose stylist, Boylan is clever with a phrase or an anecdote, and endlessly entertaining to observe as a transwoman navigating a world in constant flux through a gentle yet impactful lens.
www.celadonbooks.com
MEMOIR
“Encounters with Men” by Bob Ostertag
$25.95 (Black Lawrence Press)
Multitalented author (yoga, social justice, sex sciences, etc.), podcaster, filmmaker, and touring musician Ostertag has assembled a carefully curated book of memories based on his life as a queer man navigating love, lust, and, especially, unbridled sex. Frankly written and spanning the author’s very active, eventful lifetime, Ostertag meticulously and entertainingly details encounters with a wide variety of men and openly admits that sex, for him, “is more like a crowbar with which to quickly pry away the layers of life’s detritus and put my heart close to the heart of another.”
He believes he is an outlier in the gay community for his propensity to fall in love with the men he has sex with, and the pages of his unique memoir are filled with heady experiences involving coaches, boyhood friends, creepy psychologists, a man vacationing in America from Jerusalem who tells the author about the parks there at night “full of Palestinians fucking Jews,” and a particularly memorable story about a musclebound, sandy-haired, corn-fed former hustler who regales Ostertag with a client whose fetish was inserting frozen gummy worms into his urethra, only to ejaculate them out during masturbation.
Stranger than fiction and oddly hypnotizing, this voyeuristic treasury will keep you glued to the page for hours. The best thing about reading these encounters is Ostertag’s honest confession that from each man, he learns a little bit more about himself and how his life has become shaped by sex, love, passion, desire, and truth.
Bob Ostertag will discuss and read from his memoir at Fabulosa Books on April 10, 7 pm, 489 Castro St. www.blacklawrencepress.com
See page 19 >>
Words: Jerry Wheeler and Shawn Stewart Ruff
by Michele Karlsberg
Jerry Wheeler and Shawn Stewart Ruff have a few things in common, both known for writing LGBTQ+ literature, particularly with a focus on gay male characters and themes. Both have made notable contributions to LGBTQ+ literature, often exploring identity, relationships, and the nuances of queer life in their work. They’ve been recognized or involved in circles that celebrate queer writing.
While their styles and focuses differ, both authors incorporate themes of marginalization, desire, and self-discovery. Ruff often delves into intersections of race and sexuality, while Wheeler frequently explores eroticism and queer storytelling through short fiction and editing.
Days Running is Shawn Stewart Ruff’s fourth and latest novel. His first, “Finlater,” was awarded a 2008 Lambda Literary Award for Debut Fiction and was a finalist for the Edmund White Debut Fiction prize. He is also the editor of the landmark “Go the Way Your Blood Beats: An Anthology of Lesbian and Gay Fiction by African American Writers” (1996).
Jerry L. Wheeler has been shortlisted for the Lambda Literary Award three times, edited multiple volumes of erotica for various publishers, and is the author of two novels, “Pangs” and “Mercedes General.” He lives and writes in Denver, Colorado and shares book reviews on his website, Out in Print.
I had a chance to speak with both authors about their books.
Michele Karlsberg: What is “Days Running” about?
Shawn Stewart Ruff: It’s about 16-year-old Clifford Douglas, a precocious Black high school senior who dreams of attending college on the West Coast. On a cold wintry night, he is brutally attacked after being seen kissing his boyfriend. The attacker is no stranger or enemy; that is, until that tragic night. The novel is about what actually happened and what Cliffy does about it.
Is this Clifford the Cliffy from your debut novel?
Yes. I believe in the muses, and through my writing muse, I learned he had a remarkable story to tell. I was all the more keen, because back in 2017, while serving on a Manhat-
<< Spring Books From page 18
POETRY
“Super Gay Poems” by Stephanie Burt
$29.95 (Harvard University Press)
In this door-stopping, 400-page anthology, Harvard English instructor Burt collects a whopping 51 poems with the collective theme of queerness and inclusivity on American soil.
Assembled chronologically, the poems are embellished with Burt’s commentary on why she selected the piece as well as some background information
tan grand jury, we heard a teen Black boy describe being attacked and sexually assaulted by the foster-care brother he shared a bedroom with. What I heard in his unforgettable testimony wasn’t fear, it was fury, that this person he perhaps trusted could do what he did.
Why do you say it is a sad, depressing read?
The novel is true to itself, so it’s emotional, but readers describe it as riveting. If anything, the novel is a call to action. With the re-emergence of Trump, queer people are under assault by a white rightwing, Christian
on why the poem remains relevant and has stood the test of time, such as works by Frank O’Hara, and moving across subjects of identity, trans-awareness, gender, genderqueer sex, and the intrinsic queerness of art and the written word. Packed with awe and wonder, this is a must-have collective for any queer poetry reader. www.hup.harvard.edu
vision of America that holds us — all of us! — in the crosshairs. Our personhood is settled law. Until it isn’t!
Michele Karlsberg: Jerry, tell us about your latest book, “Mercedes General.”
“Cowboy Park: Poems” by Eduardo Martinez-Leyva
$17.95 (Univ. of Wisconsin)
In this striking debut collection, Latino poet Martinez-Leyva crafts a story about Angelo, the narrator’s brother who has gone missing physically, but whose spirit thrives within the carefully calibrated words of these poems. The imagery the poet conjures is striking: a hand moving through dark hair, galloping horses in the dust, the masculinity and bravado of cowboys, and how the desert landscape can be compared to the dryness, loss, and desolation of queer identity for those who become emotionally isolated by it. MartinezLeyva stays true to his Hispanic heritage by incorporating both English and Spanish languages within works of extremely moving, memorable poetry that examine life within the gritty terrain of cowboy territory, made tender by the insistence and impatience of queer desire. www.uwpress.wisc.edut
Jerry L. Wheeler: “Mercedes General” is a novel in short stories that details the lives of two gay men, Kent and Spencer, who met as children and grew up as a couple, enduring enormous pressures from their families and friends, encountering enemies and pedophiles, and eventually beginning an AIDS hospice out of their New York City brownstone at the beginning of the epidemic.
Why a novel in short stories? Actually, they started out as flashbacks, all featuring either a literal or metaphoric death, that went along with a present-day frame story. I never found a frame story I liked or thought was worthwhile, but I really loved the flashbacks.
I became involved with my vampire novel, “Pangs,” and they fell to the wayside. After “Pangs” came out, I was looking around for another project and came across the flashbacks.
By this point, I really didn’t have much of an objective viewpoint about them, so I asked my publisher (Sven Davisson at Rebel Satori Press) if he thought they were worthwhile. He was pretty enthusiastic, but we were short about thirty thousand words, so that’s where the last two stories come into play. When I had them all together, I finally realized they already told the story I wanted to tell.
What would you like readers to take away from the book?
A sense of permanence, that queer folk have always been here and always will be. That’s one of the reasons all the stories have some sort of death in them. Even though Kent and Spencer lose loved ones, they remain.
That’s especially true of the title story, which I tried very hard to give; not a happy ending, because that’s sort of tough during an epidemic, but at least a positive one in which we were taking some action in the face of inaction from the government and other officials. I’m quite proud of that story because it illustrates a side of our reaction to the epidemic which hasn’t been explored as thoroughly as it might.t
