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“Simply Equal”
Official 2014 OKC Pride Guide
FEATURES Page 11 - Pride Overview Get the full scoop on activities slated for OKC Pride Weekend, June 20-22.
Page 12 - Equality for All
Oklahoma is among several states fighting now for marriage equality.
PRIDE FESTIVITIES Page 17 - Dueling Divas
Martha Wash and Taylor Dayne are set to headline the annual Pride Block Party.
Page 21 - Calendar
Several activities are planned during the week leading up to OKC Pride.
Page 23 - Leading Ladies
Two Oklahoma couples, who are leading the fight for marriage equality in the state, will serve as Parade Grand Marshals.
PRIDE PHOTOS Page 34, 39 - Prom Time
OKC Pride offered residents a second chance to attend a prom earlier this year.
Page 57 - Wicked Affair
Volunteers from OKC Pride took part in the city’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, dressing as characters from “The Wizard of Oz.”
The Cimarron Equality Center displays Pride during 2013 festivities. (Photo by Taylor Brunwald)
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Greetings and Happy Pride 2014! The theme of this year’s OKC Pride festivities is “Simply Equal.” It’s an appropriate one now more than ever, as Oklahoma stands at the forefront of this nation’s marriage equality debate. But beyond that, everywhere you look in our city and state, it’s not hard to find evidence of the changing perceptions of and attitudes toward the LGBT community. That evidence is clearly displayed by the thousands upon thousands of people who come out each year to celebrate diversity, love and equality in Oklahoma City. When the OKC Pride Board of Directors began discussing what the theme of Pride 2014 should be, I was reminded of a group that began in 1991 in Lawrence, Kan. They dedicated themselves to ending discrimination in their city based on sexual orientation. They were called Simply Equal and the movement they launched, I believe, is among the cornerstones of our modern history in terms of civil rights and equal protection under the law. Another group of such pioneers will be joining us as the Grand Marshals for this year’s Parade. Their names are Mary Bishop, Sharon Baldwin, Sue Barton and Gay Phillips, the plaintiffs in Oklahoma’s marriage equality federal lawsuit. These women and their legal team have been working for nearly 10 years to get Oklahoma’s one-man-one-woman definition of marriage overturned. As you know, a federal judge declared the definition unconstitutional. While it may be some time before a final decision is made, everyone, no matter of their sexual orientation, owes a great deal of gratitude to these ladies. In my conversations with them, Mary, Sharon, Sue and Gay have said repeatedly that their fight is not just for them but for everyone who wants to have the love they share officially recognized as legitimate by the state they call home. I couldn’t agree with this sentiment more because, to my way of thinking, none of us are equal until all of us have equality. I hope each of you enjoy the festivities and entertainment of OKC Pride 2014. A great many people have volunteered thousands of hours of their time to make sure this weekend of events is successful and showcases our community. Thank you for your participation and support. With Pride, Kindt Steven Myers President OKC Pride
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A bike brigade weathers the storm during the 2013 Pride Parade.
(Photo by Taylor Brunwald)
Pride celebration announced Numerous activities slated for Oklahoma City’s Gayborhood
Oklahoma City Pride is gearing up for a multi-day celebration, complete with a Block Party, the annual Festival and Parade, all of which are expected to draw thousands to the area. Festivities are slated throughout the city in mid-June with the culmination of Pride set for June 20-22 at NW 39 and Pennsylvania Avenue, which many recognize as “The Strip” or “Gayborhood.” The Pride Board of Directors listened to community feedback and returned the celebration to the month of June to avoid inclement weather, which plagued last year’s festivites. The city’s tornado sirens sounded during last year’s Parade, which was held in May. Some also consider June to be the official Gay Pride Month, as it commemorates the annivesary of the Stonewall Riots in New York City – one of the first gay rights movements – in late June 1969.
Pride officially kicks off Friday, June 20, along NW 39 with the return of the Block Party to the Gayborhood. Festivities begin at 7 p.m. and will feature performances from two leading ladies, Martha Wash and Taylor Dayne. Wash, one of The Original Weather Girls™, is most known for her gay anthem, “It’s Raining Men.” Dayne has recorded numerous hits, including “Tell It To My Heart.” The concert, beginning at 8 p.m., is free and open to the public. The return of headliners in concert was a request from many Pride goers after organizers secured the Pointer Sisters in 2011. The annual Pride Arts Festival and Performing Arts Showcase returns to the district on Saturday, June 21, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Several entertainers are lined up to perform throughout the day. Then, Sunday, June 22, the festival reopens at noon with additional performances from area talent.
At 4 p.m., the pre-Parade Street Show, featuring local drag personalities, begins. The weekend concludes at 6 p.m. Sunday with the step off of the annual Pride Parade from Memorial Park, NW 36 and Classen Boulevard. The Parade attracts thousands, who line the route, which runs from the park to the north along Classen and west on NW 39, ending at Barnes Avenue. Selected as Parade judges this year are: Nicole Thomas, Robert Painter, Jason Black Bear, Darren Black Bear and Jeffrey Hammons. Chosen as this year’s Parade Grand Marshals are Mary Bishop, Sharon Baldwin, Sue Barton and Gay Phillips. These women are the plaintiffs in Oklahoma’s marriage equality federal lawsuit. For additional Pride activities, turn to page 21. More information about events scheduled after publication can be found at www.okcpride.org okcpride.org | Pride Guide 2014 | 11
Simply Equal The winds of change are blowing across the state of Oklahoma, and in a matter of months, marriage equality may become a reality for the Sooner State. It’s been a decade in the making, thanks to two Tulsa couples who simply want their love for one another to be recognized by the state. On Nov. 3, 2004, Oklahoma voters overwhelmingly supported a constitutional amendment limiting marriage to opposite-gender couples. The very next day, the ladies sued the state for the right to marry their long-time partners. The couples are optimistic that a supportive ruling from the courts is just moments away.
As the national spotlight on marriage equality grows ever brighter, polling continues to show Americans moving inexorably in the direction of supporting equality for same-sex couples. A Washington Post-ABC News poll taken in March found that 59 percent of Americans support marriage equality. In that same survey, 73 percent of young voters support marriage equality. There are currently more than 70 equality cases working their way through the judicial system across the country. These cases have been filed in 29 states plus Puerto Rico and account for hundreds of plaintiffs taking on state marriage bans. Same-sex couples can legally marry in 17 states and the District of Columbia. At press time of this publication, Arkansas was on track to become the 18th state supporting marriage equality. Thirty-three states have a law or constitutional amendment restricting marriage to the union of one man and one woman. Only four states – Alaska, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota – have bans on marriage equality but no current court cases challenging their constitutionality. In addition, more than 1,200 same-sex couples married in Utah following the district court ruling that the state’s marriage ban was unconstitutional before that order was stayed. A similar scenario played out for more than 300 couples in Michigan. All of those marriages are now being recognized for at least federal law purposes. In other cases in which state marriage laws have been ruled unconstitutional, the rulings have been stayed pending appeal (in Kentucky, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia) and, in one of the Ohio cases, the court’s order has been stayed as to all cou-
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ples except the named plaintiffs. While same-sex couples cannot yet marry in Oregon, the state is recognizing marriages entered by same-sex couples in other jurisdictions. Some other states are recognizing marriages same-sex couples have entered outside the state for limited purposes (such as Missouri, for purposes of filing state taxes, and Wyoming, for purposes of obtaining a divorce). In addition to states where same-sex couples can marry, comprehensive civil unions or domestic partnerships (but not the right to marriage for all) now exist in Colorado, Nevada and Oregon, and limited domestic partnerships (but not marriage) now exist in Wisconsin. Oral arguments at the 10th Circuit for Bishop v. United States – the case involving the state of Oklahoma – were held in April. Just one week prior, the same judges heard arguments regarding equality in the state of Utah. Court watchers have noted that there is no apparent timeframe on when the three-judge panel will render their decision in Oklahoma and Utah, but it’s likely the 10th Circuit will continue to treat them in an expedited manner. Though the cases will be ruled on separately, the court is being asked to make a similar decision in both. In June of last year, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on two landmark marriage cases – Hollingsworth v. Perry and United States v. Windsor. In the Perry decision regarding California’s marriage ban – Proposition 8 – the justices returned marriage equality to California, ruling on procedural grounds, not reaching a decision on
the merits of Prop 8 or the broader question of whether the Constitution guarantees the fundamental right to marry the person you love. In Windsor, the Court struck down Section3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which carved all same-sex couples, regardless of their marital status, out of all federal statutes, regulations and rulings applicable to all other married people—thereby denying them more than 1,100 federal benefits and protections. Since the Supreme Court ruled in Perry and Windsor, not a single state marriage ban has survived a federal court challenge. These rulings on the merits in the marriage cases have occurred in three state courts and nine federal district courts since the Supreme Court’s decision last June.
Marriage Equality Snapshot As of January, gay marriage has been legalized in the following 17 states: • Massachusetts (May 17, 2004) • Connecticut (Nov. 12, 2008) • Iowa (Apr. 24. 2009) • Vermont (Sep. 1, 2009) • New Hampshire (Jan. 1, 2010) • New York (June 24, 2011) • Washington (Dec. 9, 2012) • Maine (Dec. 29, 2012) • Maryland (Jan. 1, 2013) • California (June 28, 2013) • Delaware (July 1, 2013) • Rhode Island (Aug. 1, 2013) • Minnesota (Aug. 1, 2013) • New Jersey (Oct. 21, 2013) • Hawaii (Dec. 2, 2013) • New Mexico (Dec. 19, 2013) • Illinois (law will take effect June 1) As of April, 15 out of 194 countries allow same-sex couples to marry: • The Netherlands (2000) • Belgium (2003) • Canada (2005) • Spain (2005) • South Africa (2006) • Norway (2009) • Sweden (2009) • Argentina (2010) • Iceland (2010) • Portugal (2010) • Denmark (2012) • Uruguay (2013) • New Zealand (2013) • Brazil (2013) • France (2013) Same-sex marriage also is legal in some jurisdictions of Mexico and the United Kingdom. (Sources: Lambda Legal, Human Rights Campaign and ProCon.org)
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Martha Wash
Taylor Dayne
Dueling Divas
Wash, Dayne to headline Pride Block Party Two of the music industry’s original divas will make a visit to NW 39, marking the return of an outdoor concert to kick off the weekend’s Pride festivities. Martha Wash and Taylor Dayne are set to perform at 8 p.m. Friday, June 20, during the annual Pride Block Party. Dayne stands out as one of music’s most dynamic artists of all time. Her unique vocal style has earned her numerous best-sell-
ing gold and platinum albums, which produced 17 Top-20 singles, including such hits as “Tell It To My Heart,” “Love Will Lead You Back” and “Prove Your Love To Me.” During the course of her career, Dayne has sold more than 75 million albums and singles worldwide, garnered three Grammy (Please see “Divas” on Pages 18-19) okcpride.org | Pride Guide 2014 | 17
Taylor Dayne
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“Divas”
(Continued from Page 17) nominations and appeared in many film, television and Broadway stage roles, including Elton John’s, “Aida.” She is also considered a great songwriter, having co-penned Tina Turner’s hit, “Whatever You Want.” Wash’s voice has dominated the airwaves for several decades, and her charisma and spirit have reached millions across the world. She is responsible for some of the top-selling, most recognizable pop hits of the ‘80s and ‘90s. “It’s Raining Men,” the cult pop classic, is still heard everywhere, including radio, movies and commercials. “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” was the highlight of C&C Music Factory’s career and sold 5.5 million copies worldwide. Black Box’s album “Dreamland” featured four number-one Billboard dance singles and three Top-40 hits, including “Strike It Up,” which continues to receive massive airplay and is still heard at NFL and NBA games everywhere. The Friday night Pride kick-off concert is free to the public, and Pride officials recommend arriving early to get a spot close to the action.
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Pride calendar of events Oklahoma City Pride has announced a week full of activities, starting with an Opening Day Ceremony on Monday, June 16, and concluding with the annual Pride Parade on Sunday, June 22. The following events have been scheduled and are subject to change. For additional activities added after press time of this publication, please visit www.okcpride.org
Monday, June 16 Opening Day Ceremony at 3:30 p.m. Expressions Community Fellowship and Ingrid’s Kitchen invite you to a special ribbon-cutting ceremony at the church, 2245 NW 39. Community Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Join Pride volunteers and community leaders for a dinner at The Copa, 2200 NW 40.
Tuesday, June 17 Evening at Phoenix Rising Enjoy drink specials at Phoenix Rising, 2120 NW 39, starting at 4 p.m.
Wednesday, June 18
Alibi’s Hump Day Hoe Down at the bar, 1200 N Pennsylvania Ave. For more information, call 605-3795. The HiLo Club, 1221 NW 50, presents the Bang Bang Show. For more information, call 843-1722.
Thursday, June 19 Partners 4 Club, 2805 NW 36, presents beer pong and BBQ. For more information, call 942-2199.
Friday, June 20 Pre-concert affair, “It’s Raining Drinks” Happy Hour, at Tramps, 2201 NW 39, starting at 5 p.m. Official OKC Pride Block Party featuring Martha Wash and Taylor Dayne in concert; live on NW 39 at 8 p.m. Free admission. (Please see “Calendar” on Page 24)
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Mary Bishop & Sharon Baldwin
Sue Barton & Gay Phillips
Couples named Grand Marshals
Women fighting for marriage equality in Oklahoma On Nov. 3, 2004, Oklahoma voters approved a state constitutional amendment limiting marriage in the state to opposite-gender couples. On Nov. 4, two Tulsa-area lesbian couples – Mary Bishop & Sharon Baldwin and Sue Barton & Gay Phillips – sued the state and federal governments for the right to marry and for recognition of the marriages of same-gender couples. In the years since then, Barton and Phillips have gotten married in both Canada and California. Together 29 years, they are now fighting for the right to have their marriage recognized by the state of Oklahoma. Bishop and Baldwin, who have been together 17 years, are still fighting for the right to marry in Oklahoma. On Jan. 14, 2014, a U.S. Senior District Judge ruled that Okla-
homa’s ban on same-sex marriage violates the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution. While this ruling was stayed immediately pending appeal, it is exciting forward progress that has been nine years in the making. OKC Pride is excited to announce that these two very special couples will be joining us for our 2014 Pride Weekend festivities and have agreed to serve as the Grand Marshals for the Pride Parade on Sunday, June 22. This year promises more exciting marriage equality developments, and we want to honor these four women for the work they have done already, as well as the work that is still ahead for them in the appeals process. Thank you, ladies, and welcome to Oklahoma City! okcpride.org | Pride Guide 2014 | 23
“Calendar” (Continued from Page 21) Saturday, June 21 OKC Pride Arts Festival and Performing Arts Showcase on NW 39 and Pennsylvania Avenue from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Slated to perform: Chelsey Cope, Race Dance Company, Carter Sampson, OKC Improv, Born in November and Lyric Theatre. At 5 p.m., the second annual “Love is Love” marriage ceremony is slated to begin on The Strip.
Sunday, June 22 OKC Pride Arts Festival and Performing Arts Showcase continues on NW 39 and Pennsylvania Avenue from noon until 4 p.m. Pre-Parade Street Show in the Gayborhood from 4 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Official OKC Pride Parade begins at 6 p.m. at Memorial Park near NW 36 and Classen Boulevard, heading north on Classen to NW 39 and west to “The Strip.” Parade judges include Nicole Thomas, Robert Painter, Jason Black Bear, Darren Black Bear and Jeffrey Hammons.
June 14
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Congratulations on your engagement! We would be thrilled if you chose the Sheraton Downtown Oklahoma City Hotel for the location of your Commitment Ceremony. Our beautiful ballrooms can accommodate any size reception up to 350 people. Let our experienced wedding planner assist you in creating an unforgettable day that will leave your guests talking for months about your reception. From custom menus, upgraded linens, chair covers, chargers, dance floor and audio/visual, we are your one stop shop.
Ballroom Rental from $700 to $1900 (depending on the size ballroom you will need)
Three Spectacular Reception Style Menus to choose from; including your choice of a Fruit, Vegetable or Artisan Cheese Display, Interactive Bites, Heavy Hors d oeuvres & Canapés, Chef Attended Carving Station, Non-‐alcoholic Beverage Station & a Champagne Toast $38 -‐ $48 per person (75 Guest Minimum)
Formal Plated Meals from $27 -‐ $48 per person (40 Guest Minimum)
Cash or Host Bar with a bartender fee of $75 per bartender (customizable bar options available)
Complimentary King Suite for the Happy Couple night of the reception Discounted guest rooms for 10 or more rooms (based on availability)
Sunday Weddings, enjoy 20% off listed prices! Please contact our wedding planner Sarah Schoenhoff for additional details at 405.815.6004 or by email: sschoenhoff@sheratonokc.com
All banquets (including room rental, food & beverage audio/visual and related services) are subject to a service charge of 23% and applicable taxes of 8.375%.
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Official 2014 OKC Pride Parade Route
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Paid for by Paula Sophia for HD 88
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1200 N Penn • 605-3795
2201 NW 39 • 521-9888
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Meet your Pride Executive Committee Kindt Steven Myers
Duncan is very excited and looking forward to an amazing year. He is very proud to serve this community as Vice President of OKC Pride.
Kindt Steven Myers was born and raised in Oklahoma. He graduated Valedictorian with honors in Edmond and has made his home in Oklahoma City. Myers had his start in restaurants at a young age and went on to become Director of Catering for A Good Egg Dining Group, whose portfolio includes RED Primesteak, Cheever’s Cafe, Cheever’s Catering & Events, Iron Starr Urban Barbecue and RePUBlic Gastropub. From restaurants, Myers moved into banquets and conference services management for Hilton, then Marcus Hotels, and, finally, W Dallas-Victory Hotel and Residences in Dallas, Texas, and Chicago, Ill. His passion is special-event planning, with a focus on social events, such as galas, festivals and weddings. An active volunteer and civic leader, Myers volunteers with many local organizations, including Paseo Artist Awards, Festival of the Arts and The Oklahoma City Philharmonic. He also serves on the advisory boards of The Culinary Institute of Platt College, The School of Culinary Arts at Francis Tuttle Technology Center and deadCENTER Film Fesitval. Myers is President of the Board of OKC Pride and State Director of the Oklahoma Wedding Network. He is also an ordained minister.
Brandon Beard
President
Jeffrey Duncan Vice President
Jeffrey Duncan grew up in Oklahoma City and graduated Putnam City North High School in 1997. He then join the United States Navy and was stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, until 2002. During his time in the Navy, he attended the University of Honolulu. After his service, Duncan moved to New York City and was a national make-up artist. In 2010, Duncan moved back to Oklahoma City and has since been working in the medical field. He is very active in several organizations and also within the pageant world where he owns several state pageants with his best friend. 32 | Pride Guide 2014 | okcpride.org
Secretary
Brandon Beard joined the OKC Pride Board of Directors in October 2013. He has spent more than 20 years in the fields of communication and journalism. He served former State Superintendent Sandy Garrett as her speech writer and press aide for several years, worked as a staff writer for the Oklahoma Gazette, freelanced for multiple local, national and international news organizations (including Agence France Presse) and was the owner and publisher of Loud Magazine. Currently, Beard works for a major telecommunications company. He lives in Oklahoma City with his partner of eight years.
Blaine Moore Treasurer
Blaine Moore grew up in southern Kansas and was a high school math teacher in south central and southwest Kansas for 15 years. He moved to Oklahoma City in 1993 and worked for a tutoring center as a math instructor and then was promoted to director. He bought the center in 2002 and continues to be active with that business. Moore is a member of the South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, where he is active with the organization’s education committee. He is also active in his church, having served as elder, deacon, Sunday School teacher and a leader in the Stephen Ministry program. He and his partner, Hank, have been together for 22 years. Moore is pleased to be able to serve our community as Treasurer of the Pride Board.
WISHING MY FRIENDS A HAPPY PRIDE CELEBRATION!
I have never, nor will I ever, back down from my beliefs that everyone is equal! Re-Elect Willa Johnson County Commissioner Oklahoma County District One Paid for by Willa Johnson for County Commission
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A night to remember
A look back at Pride’s Second Chance Prom
IAO Gallery | January 18, 2014 | Photos by Carrie Strong 34 | Pride Guide 2014 | okcpride.org
A night to remember
A look back at Pride’s Second Chance Prom
Join us in January 2015 for another Second Chance Prom! okcpride.org | Pride Guide 2014 | 39
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Celebrate Pride all month Though LGBT Pride celebrations are held worldwide all year long, most cities host festivities during the month of June. Here’s a list of events happening every day in the month of June: 1 - Winnipeg, Canada; Buffalo, N.Y.; Dresden, Germany 2 - Albany, N.Y.; Oxford, United Kingdom 3 - El Paso, Texas; Orlando, Fla. 4 - Tallinn, Estonia 5 - Kitchener, Canada; Montpellier, France 6 - Edmonton, Canada; 7 - Los Angeles, Calif.; Washington, D.C.; Tulsa; Milwaukee, Wis.; Pittsburgh, Penn. 8 - Salt Lake City, Utah; Tulsa; Detroit, Mich. 9 - Zurich, Switzerland 10 - Honolulu, Hawaii 11 - Vienna, Austria; Key West, Fla. 12 - Sitges, Spain 13 - Tel Aviv, Israel; Des Moines, Iowa; 14 - Nashville, Tenn.; Sacramento, Calif.; Spokane, Wash.; Lyon, France 15 - Bisbee, Ariz.; Blackpool, United Kingdom 16 -Boston, Mass. 17 - Shanghai, China
18 - Provincetown, Mass. 19 - Baltimore, Md. 20 - Butte, Mon.; Columbus, Ohio; Oklahoma City; Oslo, Norway; Toronto, Canada 21 - Oklahoma City; Edsinburgh, Scotland; Berlin, Germany 22 - Oklahoma City; Denver, Colo. 23 - Helsinki, Finland 24 - Houston, Texas 25 - Tours, France 26 - Augusta, Ga.; Harrisburg, Penn. 27 - Tampa/St. Petersburg, Fla. 28 - Cleveland, Ohio; Lexington, Ky.; Santa Fe, N.M.; Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn.; San Francisco, Calif.; St. Louis, Mo.; 29 - New York City, N.Y. 30 - Cologne, Germany Other upcoming Pride dates for cities close to Oklahoma City include: • Lincoln, Neb. – July 17-20 • Chicago, Ill. – Northalsted Market Days - Aug. 9 • Austin, Texas – Splash Days - Aug. 29-31 • New Orleans, La. – Southern Decadence - Aug. 31 • Las Vegas, Nev. – Gay Days - Sept. 2-8 • Dallas, Texas – Sept. 21
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What does “Simply Equal” mean to you? We asked on Facebook, and here’s what you said:
JAMIE AREHART: Simply Equal – for each human to be treated equal without judgment or others’ beliefs! OLLIE-VER GRACE: Simply Equal – exactly what it says. To be equal amongst each other regardless of your sexual preferences, equal no matter what your race or religion is. To just be equal and accepted as a legal union without prejudice and have the same rights as you are entitled too. DANNY MASON: Simply Equal – I am not fighting for special rights for myself; I just want the same rights as everyone else. COURTNEY HOPKINS: I asked my wife your question without prefacing it; her answer: “To be honest, it sounds like a sweetener.” She’s got it right; together, our life is pretty sweet...equality for all would make it even sweeter, just like sweetener! #pride #loveislove #2wives #oklahomo
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COURTNEY DURHAM: Simply Equal means knowing a person for who they are, in their mind and soul, regardless of race, gender, orientation, etc. LILLY MEDEIROS: Not having to explain why I am not legally married in this state! To be able to be listed as my daughter’s mom on all legal documents. BECKY RANEE: Simply Equal...no more qualification of Gay Marriage or “Traditional” Marriage...Just marriage.... ALICIA ESTES SCHUKNECHT: That each and everyone is created equal no matter your race, gender or sexuality is. JENN STEWART: Simply Equal means to me... No matter what race, creed, religion, no matter what you believe in or what you stand for, not who you love or how you represent your love makes you any different than anyone else; we are all made equal and deserve the same rights as human beings.
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www.partygalaxy.com
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Greetings! When I became Vice President of OKC Pride last year, I knew my fellow board members and I had a great deal of work ahead. After all, the work of putting on one of the city’s major annual events is no easy task. It’s a herculean undertaking that requires the combined efforts of many talented people. And now that the city permits have been issued, the entertainment booked and Parade has been mapped, it’s to these people I would like to issue a heartfelt, “Thank you.” First, I would like to extend my gratitude to the members and Board of Directors of OKC Pride. Without your dedication, energy and passion, this event would’ve never come to pass. I’d like to extend specific kudos to the members of our various committees for taking charge and stepping up to ensure their particular areas of responsibility – whether it was fundraising, finance, parade planning or public relations – were executed properly. You are all outstanding leaders of our community. Next, I’d like to thank our many sponsors. The most well-planned and entertaining events can’t take place without a core group of businesses, organizations and individuals providing financial and in-kind support. And while there are too many to list here, frequenting the bars, businesses and community organizations that provided their support to OKC Pride this year is an excellent way to show them how much their commitment to our community is appreciated. I would be remiss if I didn’t thank this year’s Parade Grand Marshals – Mary Bishop, Sharon Baldwin, Sue Barton and Gay Phillips. On the national stage, Oklahoma tends to make headlines for things such as the number of women we incarcerate, tornadoes and college football. Because of these four civil rights leaders, the Sooner State is being recognized as a leader in the equal rights movement. If you get the opportunity, please take the time to congratulate and thank them for their historic efforts. Lastly, I’d like to thank the thousands of people who show up each year to celebrate Pride Weekend. Each year, my favorite part of OKC Pride is seeing the Parade turn onto NW 39 and hearing the throngs of people raise their voices in support of the LGBT community. Be they gay or straight, black or white, man or woman, the true expression of support is in faces of those who show up. We couldn’t do it without you. It’s been said that “alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” It is this idea of togetherness that is the backbone of not just the LGBT community but of the Oklahoma City community at large. Thank you to everyone, and Happy Pride 2014! Jeffrey Duncan Vice President OKC Pride 46 | Pride Guide 2014 | okcpride.org
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Tulsa Pride goers cheer on a performer at the city’s 2013 Pride celebration.
(Photo courtesy Tulsa Pride)
Tulsa celebrating 32nd Pride Stonewall witness named Parade Grand Marshal TULSA — Tulsa Pride and Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) are excited to announce the schedule for the 32nd annual Tulsa Pride Celebration. This year’s Pride Celebration will kick off May 31 with Poolside Pride presented by At The Beach. Poolside Pride will be held at the Charles Schusterman Jewish Community Center and will begin at 8 p.m. This event will feature DJ Scandal spinning tunes and a live vocal performance by $erious $tanley. Tulsa Pride Celebration and Parade will take place downtown on June 7 at 4th and Kenosha. The incredible lineup of musical acts includes My So Called Band, The Please, Please Me, Steff Mahan and Campbell Reid Andrews. The Tulsa Pride Parade will begin at 5 p.m. and will take the new
route through downtown. The parade will begin on South Boston near Boston Avenue Methodist Church and head north into Tulsa’s iconic Deco District. It will continue east on 4th, ending at the Tulsa Pride Celebration at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. The Parade’s Grand Marshal is long-time Tulsa LGBT activist, fundraiser and Stonewall witness “Clogger” Bill Francisco.
The Tulsa Pride Celebration will continue with the Picnic in the Park presented by the Tulsa Shock. As Tulsa Pride’s oldschool family picnic, there will be a small stage with entertainers, including Jeremiah Clark and Chasing Nadean. Bring your ice chest, your blanket, your kids, your dogs, your friends and family. Don’t forget about the Proud Pup Dog Parade and the chance for your dog to win some doggy goodies. New to the Pride schedule is the Inaugural Rainbow Run. On June 8 at 10 a.m., the organization will have its timed 5k and 1/2-mile “fun run.” The runs will begin and end in Centennial Park where participants will be cheered and welcomed by the (Please see “Tulsa” on Page 50) okcpride.org | Pride Guide 2014 | 49
“Tulsa” (Continued from Page 49) Pride Picnic in the Park. The Rainbow Run will benefit Tulsa Pride and Oklahomans for Equality. For more information or to sign up for the 2014 Rainbow Run, visit www.rainbowruntulsa.com. Tulsa Pride is the longest running Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Pride festival in Oklahoma, celebrating its 32nd year. Run by an all-volunteer committee and funded by sponsorships, donations and sales generated by Tulsa Pride, Tulsa Pride itself is a not-for-profit event. All funds generated for the support of Tulsa Pride go directly to the event itself, not to salaried staff or other programs. Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq), is a registered 501(c)(3) Non-Profit organization. OkEq’s mission is to seek equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, alliances and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. OkEq is a member of the Tulsa Regional Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Oklahoma Center for Non-Profit Management.
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(Photo courtesy Tulsa Pride)
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Plan your Okla. City visit Step outside the “Gayborhood” and see the city Oklahoma City’s unique past and bright future can be experienced through its many distinct districts. Here’s a guide for what to experience in each. ADVENTURE DISTRICT If you’re looking to fill the day with family-friendly adventures, Oklahoma City’s Adventure District has you covered. This twomile area south of I-44 on Martin Luther King Boulevard includes the can’t-miss National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, the nationally-renowned Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens and plenty of hands-on fun at Science Museum Oklahoma. It’s also home to Remington Park Racing Casino, the state’s premier horseracing facility with Oklahoma City’s only casino. ASIAN DISTRICT An influx of Vietnamese immigrants in the 1970s transformed the area surrounding NW 23 and Classen Boulevard into a vibrant enclave of Asian culture. It’s where you’ll find some of the best Asian restaurants in OKC, including some of the most authentic Vietnamese food this side of the Pacific. AUTOMOBILE ALLEY Revitalized. Revamped. And really cool. Located just north of downtown, what used to be the primary location for the city’s car dealerships is now home to some of OKC’s best local dining, specialty shops and more. Here on the third Thursday of the month? Join in on the fun at Auto Alley Shop Hop, Automobile Alley’s monthly street festival. BOATHOUSE DISTRICT The Boathouse District along the Oklahoma River is a hotspot for outdoor recreation. It’s the official U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Site for rowing and canoe/kayak and hosts numerous regattas throughout the year. But there’s plenty to do for non-Olympians, too. Anyone can enjoy kayaking, dragon boating, stand up paddle boarding and cycling, with rentals from the Chesapeake Boathouse. There’s also the world’s tallest adventure course and the tallest stainless-steel slide in America. BRICKTOWN/DEEP DEUCE This former warehouse district is now Oklahoma City’s most popular entertainment and dining district. Just a short walk from downtown hotels, event venues and attractions, Bricktown is filled with restaurants, shops and entertainment options. Catch a foul ball at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Enjoy a matinee at Harkins Bricktown Cinemas. Jump on a Bricktown Water Taxi. And, eat to your heart’s content. Travel a few blocks north to the historic Deep Deuce neighborhood where you can find more great restaurants and bars.
MIDTOWN Want to eat like a local? Midtown is the district for you. It’s filled with OKC staples like Brown’s Bakery, the Boulevard Cafeteria and Kaiser’s American Bistro and fan-following favorites like Irma’s Burger Shack and Elemental Coffee. Once you’ve stuffed yourself silly, you can take a Spokie bike rental on a spin around the historic neighborhoods that fill the district. PASEO Developed in 1929 as the first shopping district north of downtown, the Paseo Arts District is now home to 17 galleries and more than 60 artists. The curved, two-block street is filled with Spanish revival architecture, not to mention great restaurants, a coffee house, boutiques and gift shops. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a jam session or weekly poetry slam. PLAZA Talk about an up-and-comer. More than $15 million in recent renovations has transformed NW 16 between Pennsylvania Avenue and Classen Boulevard into a funky creative hub filled with art galleries, specialty shops and great local restaurants. The area is also home to Lyric at the Plaza, a performing arts venue that offers entertainment throughout the year. STOCKYARDS CITY A visit to Stockyards City is a great way to experience the authentic American West that’s still alive and well in this modern metropolis. Home to a number of shops specializing in all things western, you can outfit an entire ranch or just find a new pair of boots and enjoy a great steak. UPTOWN Uptown is one of OKC’s oldest districts, but also one of the newest to make a comeback. Home to some delicious dining options like Big Truck Tacos, Cheever’s, Back Door BBQ, Pizza 23 and more. Uptown is on its way back up. Stop by and see the revitalization in action. WESTERN AVENUE/CLASSEN CURVE Western Avenue and Classen Curve combine for the perfect blend of old and new in Oklahoma City. Western Avenue’s charming neighborhoods and quaint ambiance go back to the days of historic Route 66. Classen Curve is the new kid on the block, with a sleek, modern design recently built from the ground up. Both provide the perfect place for perusing an eclectic mix of local restaurants and bars, retail shops and boutiques, antique and home decor stores and fine art galleries. (Courtesy 2014 Oklahoma City Visitor’s Guide) okcpride.org | Pride Guide 2014 | 53
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Bob Lemon, the 2013 Parade Grand Marshal, waves to the crowd as he passes Angles Club.
(Photo by Taylor Brunwald)
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A Wicked Celebration Pride volunteers join St. Patty’s Day Parade
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April 29, 2014 Never in my 85 years would I have thought it possible the day would arrive when I might see two women, or two men, wed each other in the state of Oklahoma. But my sincerest congratulations go to Sharon Baldwin and Mary Bishop, the couple who filed the original lawsuit challenging the state’s gay marriage ban, for leading the way to much such an event a reality in my lifetime. My family and I thank you, and your team of lawyers, co-plaintiffs, family members and friends for your perseverance and determination to make your lives, and the state of Oklahoma BETTER. Bob Lemon
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AIDS Quilt to be displayed at Pride Several panels from the highly recognized AIDS Quilt will be on display in OKC during Pride. The exhibition will be open to the public June 21-22 at Expressions Church, NW 39 and Youngs Blvd. The idea of The Quilt started in June 1987 when a small group of strangers gathered in a San Francisco storefront to document the lives they feared history would neglect. Their goal was to create a memorial for those who had died of AIDS and to thereby help people understand the devastating impact of the disease. This meeting of devoted friends and lovers served as the foundation of the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt. The Quilt was conceived in November of 1985 by long-time San Francisco gay rights activist Cleve Jones, who helped organize the annual candlelight march honoring Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. At the end of the 1985 march, Jones and others stood on ladders taping placards bearing the names of friends and loved ones who had died of AIDS to the walls of the San Francisco Federal Building. The wall of names looked like a patchwork quilt. On October 11, 1987, The Quilt included 1,920 panels and was displayed for the first time on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., during the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. The Quilt returned to Washington, D.C., in October 1988, when 8,288 panels were displayed on the Ellipse in front of the White House. The entire Quilt was again displayed on the National Mall in 1992 and 1996, when it contained approximately 37,440 individual panels. The Quilt was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 and is today the largest community art project in the world. The Quilt has been the subject of countless books, films, scholarly papers, articles and theatrical, artistic and musical performances. “Common Threads: Stories From The Quilt” won the Academy Award as the best feature-length documentary film of 1989. In 2001, The NAMES Project Foundation headquarters and The AIDS Memorial Quilt moved from San Francisco to Atlanta, and today displays continue being held across the country every day, new panels continue to be accepted and incorporated into The Quilt and a new, solid financial foundation continues to be built beneath The Quilt, guaranteeing its ongoing work and securing its future.
Quick Facts About The Quilt: • Funds Raised by The Quilt for Direct Services for People with AIDS: More than $4 million • Number of Visitors to The Quilt: More than 15 million • Panels in The Quilt: app. 48,000+ • Names on The Quilt: More than 94,000+ • Size : 1.3 million square feet • Total Weight: More than 54 tons • Made by more than 100,000 friends and family members okcpride.org | Pride Guide 2014 | 61
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Looking back at LGBT history 1867: “Father of LGBT Movement” Karl-Heinrich Ulrichs is the first to speak out for gay rights 1903: First recorded raid on gay bathhouse in New York City; 12 men charged with sodomy 1924: Society for Human Rights, the first gay-rights organization in the United States, is founded. It is shut down by police within a few months
1978: Rainbow flag is first used as symbol of Gay Pride 1979: First national gay-rights march is held in Washington, D.C. 1983: Rep. Gerry Studds becomes first openly gay member of Congress 1989: Denmark becomes first country to legalize same-gender partnerships
1945: Veterans Benevolent Association, first LGBT veterans group, is formed
1991: First TV kiss between same-gender couple, two women on “L.A. Law”
1952: George Jorgensen, Jr., is first American to have gender reassignment surgery, becoming Christine Jorgensen
1993: “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy allows gays/lesbians to serve in the U.S. military as long as they are closeted
1955: Daughters of Bilitis, first national U.S. lesbian organization, is formed
1993: Minnesota passes the first state-wide law prohibiting discrimination against transgender people
1969: Stonewall riots in New York gain national attention for gay rights
1996: In Romer v. Evans, Supreme Court says gays and lesbians have same right to be protected against discrimination as nonLGBT people
1970: First Gay Liberation Day March is held in New York City; similar events are held in Los Angeles and San Francisco 1973: American Psychiatric Association removes “homosexuality” as a mental disorder
1996: President Clinton signs Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) into law (Please see “History” on Page 64) okcpride.org | Pride Guide 2014 | 63
“History”
(Continued from Page 63) 1999: California becomes first state to legalize domestic partnerships for same-gender couples 2000: Vermont becomes first state to legalize civil unions for same-gender couples 2000: President Clinton declares June Gay and Lesbian Pride Month 2003: In Lawrence v. Texas, Supreme Court overturns 1986 ruling and declares anti-sodomy laws unconstitutional 2004: Massachusetts becomes first state to legalize same-gender marriage 2009: President Obama signs law making it a federal crime to assault someone because of their sexual orientation or gender identity Kristen Worthen drapes herself in a modified Pride flag in preparation to view last year’s Parade. (Photo by Taylor Brunwald)
2009: President Obama declares June Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month 2009: Respect for Marriage Act introduced in Congress; would repeal DOMA and require government to recognize legal same-gender marriages 2010: President Obama signs law ending “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy 2010: Supreme Court agrees to hear Edith Windsor’s case, which challenges the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act 2012: Seven LGBT candidates win election into U.S. House and Senate 2013: Maryland, Delaware, Rhode Island and Minnesota bring to 12 the number of states to allow same-gender marriage 2013: Supreme Court declares proponents of Proposition 8 lack legal standing to appeal lower court rulings that have already invalidated Prop. 8. Results in California being the 13th state where same-sex couples can marry. The Court also struck down DOMA, allowing same-sex couples hundreds of federal benefits and protections. 2014: Same-sex couples can now marry in nearly 20 states and the District of Columbia; More than 70 marriage equality cases, including one affecting Oklahoma, are working their way through the judicial system. As of press time, Arkansas was the latest victory. (Courtesy of DiversityInc.com and Human Rights Campaign)
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Dozens of couples participated in Pride’s “Love is Love” marriage equality rally held last year at the Myriad Botanical Gardens. (Photo by Taylor Brunwald)
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Presidential Proclamation (Editor’s note: Each year, President Obama issues a proclamation recognizing the month of June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Month. At the time of printing of this magazine, the 2014 proclamation had not yet been issued. Below, though, you’ll find his support of our community from last year.) For more than two centuries, our Nation has struggled to transform the ideals of liberty and equality from founding promise into lasting reality. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Americans and their allies have been hard at work on the next great chapter of that history – from the patrons of The Stonewall Inn who sparked a movement to service members who can finally be honest about who they love to brave young people who come out and speak out every day. This year, we celebrate LGBT Pride Month at a moment of great hope and progress, recognizing that more needs to be done. Support for LGBT equality is growing, led by a generation which understands that, in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” In the past year, for the first time, voters in multiple States affirmed marriage equality for same-sex couples. State and local governments have taken important steps to provide much-needed protections for transgender Americans. My Administration is a proud partner in the journey toward LGBT equality. We extended hate crimes protections to include attacks based on sexual orientation or gender identity and repealed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” We lifted the HIV entry ban and ensured hospital visitation rights for LGBT patients. Together, we have investigated and addressed pervasive bullying faced by LGBT students, prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in Federal housing, and extended benefits for same-sex domestic partners. Earlier this year, I signed a reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity in the implementation of any VAWA-funded program. And because LGBT rights are human rights, my Administration is implementing the first-ever Federal strategy to advance equality for LGBT people around the world. We have witnessed real and lasting change, but our work is not complete. I continue to support a fully inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act, as well as the Respect for Marriage Act. My Administration continues to implement the Affordable Care Act, which beginning in 2014, prohibits insurers from denying coverage to consumers based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, as well as the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, which addresses the disparate impact of the HIV epidemic among certain LGBT sub-communities. We have a long way to go, but if we continue on this path together, I am confident that one day soon, from coast to coast, all of our young people will look to the future with the same sense of promise and possibility. I am confident because I have seen the talent, passion, and commitment of LGBT advocates and their allies, and I know that when voices are joined in common purpose, they cannot be stopped. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2013 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month. I call upon the people of the United States to eliminate prejudice everywhere it exists, and to celebrate the great diversity of the American people. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh. BARACK OBAMA
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- Parting Shot -
The women from Partners 4 Club and PToo Mix celebrate during the 2013 Parade. The clubs received the Best Float prize from the committee of judges. (Photo courtesy Ace Barrentine)
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