01/31/20, Vol. 10 Issue 23

voice

georgia VOL.10 • ISSUE 22

EDITORIAL

YOUR VOICE MATTERS Lizzo says She Wants Her Music to Make Black Trans Women Feel Good Dawn Gibson: “If only our gay communities behaved in the same way. Our Black trans sisters could use extra love.”

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

PO Box 77401 • Atlanta, GA 30357 P: 404-815-6941; F: 404-963-6365

EDITORIAL

Editor: Patrick Colson-Price pcolson-price@thegavoice.com

RuPaul Set to Host SNL Elliott Mackle: “He’s been reported as saying that drag will never be mainstream. Does it get any more mainstream than this gig?”

Editorial Contributors: Conswella Bennett, Cliff Bostock, Melissa Carter, Dallas Duncan, Aidan Ivory Edwards, Jim Farmer, Dawn Felton, O’Brian Gunn, Ryan Lee, Rose Pelham, Zoe Seiler, Berlin Sylvestre, Dionne Walker

Orean Keels Jr.: “Ru won’t be in drag (unless maybe for a pre-recorded segment), so does that really count?”

PRODUCTION

Art Director: Rob Boeger rboeger@thegavoice.com

ONLINE

Digital Content Senior Staffer: Katie Burkholder kburkholder@thegavoice.com

BUSINESS

Principal/Publisher: Tim Boyd tboyd@thegavoice.com

SALES

Sales Executive: Dixon Taylor dtaylor@thegavoice.com

Sales Executive: Jim Brams jbrams@thegavoice.com

Business Advisor: Lynn Pasqualetti Financial Firm of Record: HLM Financial Group National Advertising: Rivendell Media 908-232-2021 sales@rivendellmedia.com

FINE PRINT

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Waiting Your Turn Patrick Colson-Price I’ll admit that I have a slight ounce of road rage. Ok, more like a heaping ton of it! I think it’s hard for many of us to admit that we’re ragers behind the wheel. Many consider themselves “defensive drivers,” while others simply don’t know how in the hell to drive.

Since moving to Atlanta, I’ve realized two things: this city has some of the worst drivers, and I’m apparently mad as hell about it!

It happens weekly, sometimes even daily when I’m on the connector that links Monroe and Piedmont Road with 85/75 right before the two interstates merge. The lane that I take to get onto the interstate is always congested with people waiting their turns. But you have a select few that love to speed and try to slip in between cars. I’m the one that usually tails the car in front of me to prevent some impatient drivers from dangerously slipping into the crowded line of cars. But still, it always ends up happening and leaves me with a raging attitude!

To be more specific, on the way home from

the gym the other day I encountered a big, black SUV with a limousine license plate. My history with these vehicles hasn’t been good.

They pull out in front of you without any warning, cut you off without any hesitation, and don’t give a shit if they’re hit in the process.

This specific driver was looking to merge into the lane I was in so he’d make the next turn.

Without a blinker on, he began merging into my lane while being directly beside me. He began inching closer and closer to my car as I laid on my horn with my window down yelling. He didn’t stop merging and almost sideswiped me before I sped up and passed him. He merged in after me.

Some might say, “Why don’t you just let him in and be a kind driver?” My response is after you’ve encountered careless drivers willing to put you and your property at risk, you just don’t put up with that shit anymore!

I’ll take the title of road rager but only because I know that I can’t be bullied on the roadways of the ATL. I think more drivers need to be defensive in how they drive because if we all become careless like those impatient drivers that can’t wait for their turns, there’s going to be even more gridlock on our roadways.

White House Livestreams Anti-LGBTQ Sermon Elizabeth Kirk: “It just blows my mind that a CHURCH would sink this low while preaching the message of Christ and that a group of people who have been persecuted and discriminated against most of their lives could even listen to anyone discriminate against another group of GOD’S children!”

Drew West: “I don’t know about others, but as a trans woman I’m seriously starting to question my safety in this country.”

Aron Siegel: “I really wish they’d keep all religions out of politics.”

Brookhaven Becomes Seventh Georgia Municipality to Outlaw LGBTQ Discrimination Jeff Fedder: “LGBTQ family, take your business dollars to Brookhaven, Atlanta, Chamblee, Doraville, Decatur, Dunwoody and Clarkston. Let’s support these cities in return for supporting us!”

Trump Admin. Proposes More Anti-LGBTQ “Religious Freedom” Rules Tim Andy Anderson: “Wake up America or we will repeat history of Hitler and the concentration camps. We are right now on the verge of a constitutional crisis if the Republicans make a total sham of the impeachment charge. Enough is enough of this bully dictator.”

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January 31, 2020 Editorial 3

NEWS

Jorge Estevez

WSB-TV’s First Openly LGBTQ News Anchor “Having a connection to that community was incredible for me, in the sense that one feels it that much more, not as much as family and friends of the 49 victims of course but as a community, we feel it, and the world was behind us.”

Zoe Seiler Walking into WSB-TV, Jorge Estevez is full of energy as he begins a new journey with the news station. Estevez’s first day was on Jan. 13, making him the station’s first openly LGBTQ anchor. Estevez comes from WFTV in Orlando and is anchoring the 5 pm and 11pm newscasts with Jovita Moore.

“To be able to work alongside a team of people who have been doing this for decades is truly a gift,” he said. “So for me to be able to slip in here and have made it through the process, and someone somewhere feels I’m a good fit is so humbling that I do not take it for granted.”

Estevez is looking forward to meeting more people, expanding his horizons, and learning more about other parts of the country. His goal is to get out in the Atlanta community and its surrounding areas.

“So I’m looking forward to people telling me the kinds of stories that need to be told because without them we have no purpose,” he said. “They’re the ones who drive our purpose, they’re why we get up and come to work every day.”

He wants to focus on the stories that impact the people who make up the state, he said.

One of the first stories Estevez did for WSBTV was about Atlanta Hawks player Trae Young who “donated $10,000 to relieve medical debt, which is the equivalent of relieving $1 million of medical debt because for $1 you donate you relieve $100 of medical debt,” he said.

The most impactful story Estevez said he did was covering the events surrounding the Pulse 4 News January 31, 2020

WSB-TV News Anchor Jorge Estevez PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

Nightclub shooting in Orlando in 2016.

the world was behind us,” he said.

“Having a connection to that community was incredible for me, in the sense that one feels it that much more, not as much as family and friends of the 49 victims of course but as a community, we feel it, and

A week after the shooting three young people organized a march in Orlando which honored the victims of the shooting. A candlelight vigil took place at Lake Eola Park and Estevez helped host the event.

“I told everyone it’s time to light the candles to remember our 49 angels, and everyone started lighting candles. When I tell you seeing all the candles around the lake, 50,000-60,000 people. It was so impactful. You can’t even begin to imagine how this will change our lives forever as a city. It was just one of the most remarkable moments that I’ve had the pleasure of presiding over,” Estevez said.

“It changed me. It changed how I approach a news story. It changed how I approach people,” he added. “It changed how I live my life every day.”

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

40 Years

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

404.873.2664 1447 PIEDMONT AVE NE, ATLANTA, GA 30309 WWW.BOYNEXTDOORMENSWEAR.COM

NEWS

Rush Center Names Simone Bell as New Interim Executive Director Katie Burkholder This week, the Phillip Rush Center Board of Directors named Simone Bell as its Interim Executive Director.

Bell made national history in 2009, when she was elected to represent Georgia’s 58th House District, making her the first out, black lesbian to serve in a U.S. state legislature. After holding the position until 2015, she then served as Lambda Legal’s Southern Regional Director until 2018, and as Chief External Affairs Officer for Planned Parenthood in 2019.

Bell’s new position comes after former Executive Director Linda Ellis stepped down after more than a decade with the organization.

“We’re delighted that Simone is joining the Rush Center team. As a long-time community leader, Simone brings a breadth and depth of experiences and knowledge that are exactly what our organization needs right now,” said Board of Directors Chairperson Sandy Hoke.

“The Rush Center is so many things to so many people in our community, and I’m excited to get to be a part of it,” Bell said of her new position. “These walls have seen our community through so much and I’m honored that the board has selected to me to lead it into the new chapter.”

Simone Bell COURTESY PHOTO

Atlanta Pride Committee Announces 2019 Year-end Grant Recipients The Atlanta Pride Committee (APC) has once again renewed their commitment to investing into Atlanta’s LGBTQ community by announcing their list of 2019 year-end grand recipients.

These grants are awarded to non-profits that work to improve the lives of LGBTQ people in the region. This year, a record 16 organizations received funds, totaling almost $100,000.

“This program is a priority for us,” Jamie Fergerson, the APC Executive Director, said in a statement. “We want everyone to be aware that by supporting Atlanta Pride, you also support so many organizations within our community.”

The 2019 year-end grant recipients are: AID Atlanta All-1-Family Compassionate Atlanta 6 News January 31, 2020

He is Valuable Hotlanta Softball League NATAS Southeast Foundation Out Front Theater Company Out on Film Raksha Southern Unity Movement Teach for America’s Prism Metro Coalition The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation The Phillip Rush Center TRANScending Barriers Atlanta Voices of Note ZAMI NOBLA: National Organization of Black Lesbians on Aging “[B]y lifting each other up and supporting one another, we can and will move ever closer to our goal of justice and equality for all,” Fergerson said. “I am … grateful to have a voice to lead and to be on this journey with those in all of these extraordinary organizations and so many others throughout our beloved community.”

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

NEWS

HIV Conference Comes to Atlanta Two-day event brings discussion to the impact of HIV/AIDS on black women and their families

Dr. Gail Wyatt PHOTO VIA TWITTER

Katie Burkholder When it comes to the discussion of HIV in the black community, black men (especially those who have sex with men) are usually at the forefront. However, this fails to encompass the entire scope of HIV among African Americans; in reality, black women are the women most burdened with HIV in the United States.

Their needs and issues differ from those of infected black men, but the treatment and solutions aren’t being created with them in mind. That’s why the Sanfoka Collaborative, a collaboration of African American and Afro-Latino health professionals, have said, “Enough is enough!” Thus, came the creation of A Paradigm Shift 2.0, a two-day conference all about the impact of HIV/AIDS on black women and their families. “[T]he HIV incidence and treatment of African American women is substandard and shameful,” Dr. Gail Wyatt, a clinical psychologist, board-certified sex therapist, and professor of psychiatry and biobehavioral sciences at The Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Behavior at UCLA, told Georgia Voice. Dr. Wyatt is one of the event’s featured speakers and will launch the conference with a talk on the effects of sexual, psychological, and physical trauma on African American women’s history.

Because black women are often excluded from decision-making positions of power, their needs are going unmet. According to Dr. Wyatt, this silencing of HIV-positive black women is reminiscent of the centuries of racism and sexism present in our history.

“Many of the ways African American women are being treated are very similar to old histories of segregation and sexism, in the way that all of the services and attention TheGeorgiaVoice.com

“Many of the ways African American women are being treated are very similar to old histories of segregation and sexism, in the way that all of the services and attention are being placed on men.”

– Dr. Gail Wyatt, a clinical psychologist, board-certified sex therapist, and professor of psychiatry and bio-behavioral sciences at The Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Behavior at UCLA are being placed on men,” she said. “[HIV-positive black women] have different needs and issues, so the treatment and concern [for HIV] should not be one size fits all.”

Some of these issues HIV-positive black women face that just aren’t being addressed? The intersection between HIV and reproductive health is crucial when discussing HIV among women, yet many HIV clinicians lack serious knowledge on reproductive healthcare.

This poses a problem to women who lack the funds or transportation to go from doctor to doctor, or mothers who have the responsibility of taking care of their children during the day. Fear of racist or sexist discrimination from healthcare providers can also sway black women from visiting a doctor altogether.

Black women tend to also have a fundamental misunderstanding of their bodies or risk factors, Dr. Wyatt says, due to a dearth of comprehensive sexual education, stereotypes regarding black women’s promiscuity, and a serious lack in availability of healthcare and information to people of color – especially in the South.

Wyatt said. “This event will be very exciting.

HIV-positive women will be in the room with women who don’t have HIV [because] when we have an epidemic disease, all of us are being affected … Everyone stands at risk because our children and teenagers don’t know enough.”

All of these issues and many more will be discussed at the conference, which will feature keynote speaker Professor Angela Davis, as well as other featured speakers like Stacey Abrams, Dr. Tené Lewis, Dr. Imani Ma’at, Hydeia Broadbent, Dr. Cheryl Grills, and Londyn de Richelieu.

“There will be many issues on the ballot in November that we will be addressing in this conference,” she continued. “We want to invite people to come and hear the expert presentations by African American women.

We want to demonstrate that if anybody has any confusion about what African American women need, we have the experts that can provide that information for them.”

“The conference will include experts, mostly African American women, who will be talking about either their own research or their own experiences and expertise in the areas of HIV, mental health, health, and social justice,” Dr.

A Paradigm Shift 2.0: The Impact of HIV/ AIDS on African American Women and Families comes to the Loudermilk Conference Center on Feb. 6 and 7. For tickets and more information, visit paradigmshiftconference.org.

January 31, 2020 News 7

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Table Talk with

Stacey Abrams Patrick Colson-Price

On the heels of the 2020 presidential election, we sit down with one of politics’ most talked about rising stars, Stacey Abrams.

We’re chatting about all things politics as well as Black History Month, so you can bet on reading all the details for her upcoming year!

Thank you for taking the time to talk with Georgia Voice. Since we talked to you last, you’ve been busy working away with your new organization FAIR FIGHT. How has it changed the way people make their voices heard in local elections here in Georgia?

“Fair Fight and Fair Fight Action have worked to make sure communities across Georgia can make their voices heard and have their votes counted in every single election.

During the municipal elections of 2019, we organized texting and phone banks to contact Georgians to make sure they could make their voices heard. The Democratic Party of Georgia has a voter protection hotline (888730-5816) to answer questions about voting, and we make sure voters know they can call that number year-round, including in the so-called “off years.” We invested resources to support progressive candidates where our support could make a difference. Of the 15 candidates, we endorsed, 10 won, including a new mayor of Savannah. In addition, Fair Fight Action pursued advocacy and litigation efforts that led to approximately 26,500

“In August 2019, we launched Fair Fight 2020, an initiative dedicated to funding, training, and supporting voter protection teams in battleground states across the country. It is crucial we take our mission nationwide because voter suppression is not confined to our state.”

Georgia voters remaining on the roles – voters who otherwise would have been purged.

More recently, we have begun focusing our efforts on making sure that counties and precincts have adequate resources for the March 24 presidential primary. We are holding the Secretary of State accountable for providing proper resources and training to local elections officials so every eligible Georgian can participate without hardship.”

What about on the national level? How are you working to keep voters from being silenced?

“In August 2019, we launched Fair Fight 2020, an initiative dedicated to funding, training, and supporting voter protection teams in battleground states across the country. It is

8 Community Spotlight January 31, 2020

Stacey Abrams COURTESY PHOTOS

crucial we take our mission nationwide because voter suppression is not confined to our state.

Fair Fight 2020 is investing in voter protection infrastructure now – ensuring that our eventual Presidential, Senate, Congressional, and downballot nominees have a tested voter protection program to scale. In 2019, we worked with the state Democratic parties in Kentucky and Louisiana, electing governors in both states who support the LGBTQ community and Medicaid expansion. We also invested in Virginia, where the state legislature is now under full Democratic control and moving forward with legislation to ban so-called conversion therapy and protect the rights of transgender Virginians. Our work in these three states is a demonstration of how we can make progress on the issues we care about if

we protect the right to free and fair elections.

We are now working in 18 battleground states across the country. Fair Fight-funded program staff are building relationships with key local and state elections officials, launching statebased voter protection hotlines, and training a strong contingency of volunteer poll observers.

This type of investment and the scale of it is unprecedented.”

Where does the lawsuit your organization filed in 2018 stand? Has there been any progress?

“We filed an unprecedented federal suit in the aftermath of the 2018 election against the Secretary of State challenging the CONTINUES ON PAGE 9 TheGeorgiaVoice.com

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

against trans women of color. I encourage you not just to advocate for your own community, but to amplify the voices of other marginalized communities. Allies across communities strengthen the vibrancy of our electorate.

Finally, we must ensure that every LGBTQ Georgian is counted in the 2020 Census so that your communities can have all the resources available to them. Not only should each person complete their Census form, please encourage your friends and neighbors to do so. Vital resources for healthcare, public safety and housing desperately needed by the LGBTQ community are tied to an accurate Census. Be counted so that you count.

constitutionality of Georgia’s election system.

Last month, we filed an emergency action aimed at preventing 120,000 Georgians from being purged from the voter rolls before 2020 under the state’s ‘use it or lose it’ statute. As a result of this litigation, the Secretary of State was forced to admit a massive error and reinstate 22,000 voters to the rolls. We are currently progressing through the discovery process of the lawsuit and expect to be in trial in the spring.”

Walk us through HB 316 and what your group is doing to change it and how voters have their voices heard.

“The bill makes major changes to the way Georgians will vote. Most noteworthy, the bill replaces the 18-year old voting machines that were used in the 2018 elections. We advocated for a different system, handmarked paper ballots, because of security concerns, but no matter the concerns about the 2020 election, it is critical that Georgians go and vote. House Bill 316 also allows two additional years before voters can be purged from the rolls under the state’s “use it or lose it” policy. Unfortunately, the Secretary of State decided not to follow that policy in his most recent purge. We are calling on the state legislature to fix House Bill 316 so that it is clear that the recent purge was illegal.

Fair Fight Action is also working to make sure that counties have adequate numbers of machines that they were promised, that local election officials are given the training they need, and that the state is honest with local governments about the long-term costs of their investment. We expect a high turnout for the March 24 presidential primary, and I encourage all Georgians to participate.”

It’s an election year which means a huge race for the White House. Which candidate do you think aligns with your views on democracy and a free and fair election?

“I have met with all of the major candidates who have expressed their commitment to ending voter suppression and competing for Georgia’s 16 electoral votes. I have not endorsed a candidate, but we have an exemplary group of candidates. Regardless of the winner, I will work to make sure our nominee becomes the next president of the United States. My best contribution, for now, is ensuring that no matter who the nominee TheGeorgiaVoice.com

is, we are ready for the general election. To that end, I have been focused on the Fair Fight 2020 initiative, to make sure our nominee is in a strong position with robust voter protection teams in each battleground state.

I also advocated national party leaders for a presidential debate to take place in Georgia.”

Michael Bloomberg has come out to fight against voter suppression. He attended one of your FAIR FIGHT events in Atlanta. Have any other candidates come on board to support your cause?

“Several of the candidates either made monetary contributions or attended Fair Fight events, and we are thrilled to have their support. Mayor Buttigieg, Senator Booker, Senator Klobuchar, and businessman Andrew Yang attended our phone and text bank, which helped save thousands of voters from being purged from the rolls. Senator Booker and Senator Sanders made monetary contributions.

Vice President Biden, Senator Gillibrand, Senator Harris, Senator Sanders, and Senator Warren, as well as Congressman O’Rourke, offered strong statements about our efforts. All of the candidates have been supportive of our cause to fight voter suppression.”

Will you be endorsing any candidate anytime soon?

“I will be supporting the person who the voters choose as our nominee. No matter who wins the primary, two objectives will be paramount. One, we must come together to win the White House, the U.S. Senate and

flip state chambers for redistricting; and two, we must ensure a free and fair election.”

What about the title of Vice President?

There are talks that you might slip into a VP candidate slot? Is that a position you’d be interested in holding?

“Of course, I would be honored to be considered as a running mate to the Democratic nominee in the general election.

My responsibility in the primary, however, is to build the infrastructure needed to combat voter suppression. Regardless of who our nominee will be, we must have robust voter protection teams on the ground in battleground states.”

What message can you send our LGBTQ people of color regarding their voices and speaking up when certain Republican politicians try to silence their votes and their voices?

“Your vote is your voice, and it is critical that you use it to elect leaders who represent the values of the LGBTQ community. It makes a big difference who we put in office. Yes, forces will attempt to silence LGBTQ voters, particularly LGBTQ people of color, but the best way to overcome voter suppression is to overwhelm the system with our votes. It is also critical for LGBTQ Georgians to remain engaged after an election, including holding elected officials at the statehouse and in local government accountable. Demand that leaders drop their threats of discriminatory legislation and to take action to stop violence committed

When I served in the legislature, I fought religious liberty bills targeting LGBTQ Georgians because I knew my faith does not exist as a sword to strike down others, but as a shield to protect them. It is a shame our current Vice President Mike Pence and the person in the Georgia governor’s mansion see this differently and that they are willing to kill jobs and decimate the entertainment industry in the name of discrimination. With a new legislative session starting, Republicans in Georgia have not only revived the debate on RFRA; they are going further by threatening the ability of loving LGBTQ parents to foster children in our state. I believe in using my voice to lift up others. In the organizations and campaigns I have run, I am proud to have brought on a diverse group of LGBTQ team members. I was proud to serve as a Grand Marshal in the 2019 Atlanta Pride Parade, marking the 50th anniversary of Stonewall.

The spirit of Stonewall lives in all of us and I’m proud to be an ally.”

Now for some fun! Aside from working with FAIR FIGHT, what keeps you smiling and laughing outside of work? What’s your favorite hobby? Any shows that you binge-watch or are your favorites?

“I enjoy reading, watching television, and I am currently finishing writing a new book.

Right now, I’m watching The Good Place, Doctor Who, and Supernatural, and I’m planning to binge Picard (the latest Star Trek offering) when it launches.”

What about favorite restaurants here in Atlanta? Give us some good eats!

“Atlanta has a host of great food options, but if I have to pick a few, I enjoy Sotto Sotto, White Oak Kitchen, and Le Petite Marché.”

January 31, 2020 Community Spotlight 9

COMMUNITY FEATURE

Documenting A Powerful History Black Lesbian Archives to document, share the story of black gay women for generations to come

documented in the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame. She’s worked with Maekdo to share photos and anecdotes she hopes can spread her story beyond the Midwest.

“It’s important for us to have the history of our LGBTQ community because it’s not exhibited ordinarily,” she said. “And there are a lot of people who did different things in order to pave the way for us to have a better life.”

Dionne N. Walker Ask lesbian activist Patricia McCombs whether she saw women who lived, loved, and most importantly, looked like her growing up pre-Stonewall, and her answer is swift and firm.

Soliciting contributions face to face and talking about the archives at community events are just a few ways Maekdo is trying to break the ice. She’s also going beyond the traditional museum model and incorporating everyday people into decisions about what goes into the archives and how it is presented.

“Never,” said McCombs, a Chicago woman who, decades later, would play an unexpected role in changing that pattern.

Her work as a party promoter and vocal lesbian rights activist earned her a spot in the Black Lesbian Archives, an Atlanta-based historical preservation project looking to document and share the story of black gay women for generations to come.

“I want this to be moreso a process that we as a community come up with,” she said.

Comprised of nearly 1,000 scrapbooks, audio files, videos, poems, newsletters and photos, the exhibit is an effort of Krü Maekdo, who this month kicks off a 30-stop traveling tour.

Her goal: highlighting the existence of what many consider a marginalized community within a marginalized community.

At present, the Black Lesbian Archives is truly a grassroots effort; the bulk of the collection is on trifolds Maekdo dutifully transports around the country in her car.

Krü Maekdo COURTESY PHOTO

The tour kicks off in Atlanta, and will include a Feb. 23 showing at Charis Books and More.

It will wrap up this July in Chicago, where Maekdo got her archiving start.

LGBTQ history is dominated by white men is not a new one. “I was digging because I wanted to know more of who am I, where did I come from?”

What she’s discovered so far ranges from the everyday to the exceptional. There are magazines detailing regional black club life, and screenshots from popular underground movies.

Black-lesbian-authored books and newspaper clippings, flyers, and copious pictures of black women of all ages living out and proud.

Part of the challenge of documenting LGBTQ history lies in the historical stigma, explained Wil Brant, director of Chicago’s Gerber/Hart Library and Archives. The archive has worked closely with Maekdo.

The latter is particularly important to Maekdo, a history buff who noticed that while plenty of organizations have documented LGBTQ history, relatively few celebrate women of color.

“I was like where the hell are we at?” said Maekdo, whose argument that retelling of

Brant said many pre-Stonewall men and women wouldn’t keep records that would affiliate themselves with any sort of LGBTQ movement. When they died, what few keepsakes they had often got destroyed by well-meaning family and friends, he said.

“A lot of history has been lost,” Brant said.

“That’s an important part of what Kru is doing. Kind of bringing it out into the open.”

10 Community Feature January 31, 2020

Maekdo faces unique challenges in documenting a demographic that is often reticent to share private keepsakes. One need only look to the well-publicized story of Henrietta Lacks, a black Maryland woman whose pilfered cancer cells fueled decades of medical research, to understand some of the reticence. Lacks’ family continued to fight for compensation in 2018, nearly 70 years after her death, according to The Washington Post.

“When it comes to these institutions, there’s a certain level of trust we do not have, and I can understand why,” Maekdo said. “We were always put on the bottom.”

But when communities don’t share their story, that story often doesn’t get told a trend McCombs wants to help stop.

Her own history as an advocate against discriminatory nightclub practices is

She hopes to get a bus for the mobile collection and establish a brick-and-mortar homebase for it in Oakland this year. She’s also soliciting donations and even selling handmade jewelry to raise some of the $20,000 it will take to create a proper digital database for the archives.

Maekdo ultimately wants the archives to become as large and invaluable as collections like the New York’s Lesbian Herstory Archives. For now, however, she’s satisfied playing even a small role in helping black women connect with their history.

“You look back in the past and you’re like, now I can understand who I am in the present,” she said. “That’s what Black Lesbian Archives is, connectivity.”

For more information about the Black Lesbian Archives, visit https://blacklesbianarchives. wixsite.com/info TheGeorgiaVoice.com

COMMUNITY FEATURE

Celebrate Black History Month Events around ATL focus on African-America culture

songs. Classix 102.9 FM DJ Mixmaster Mitch will get the party started with other local music celebrities. Guests can also expect live art and a commemorative bottle of Roy Ayers wine.

Feb. 4, 6pm-10pm City Winery Atlanta (650 North Avenue NE Ste 201) Tickets: citywinery.com

Katie Burkholder Being the birthplace of the civil rights movement and home to heroes like Martin Luther King, Jr. and John Lewis, you know Atlanta has more than enough ways to celebrate Black History Month. Whether you’re interested in appreciating black art, connecting with others in the community, or supporting black businesses, there’s a surefire way for you to honor the history Atlanta is built upon.

Before Black Lives Matter

In a world where to some black lives matter is a movement and to others it’s nothing more than a simple hashtag, Daniel is a senior in high school whose friend was recently killed by a police officer. To keep Daniel safe, his mother sends him to live with his aunt in the suburbs. Daniel quickly finds out that no matter where he lives, he is still a black male and there are certain things that he cannot do. This moving and informative drama is appropriate for all ages and races.

Feb. 7, 7pm-9pm 7 Stages Theatre (1105 Euclid Ave) Tickets: trefloyd.com/product/bblm-atl/

ARTS / HISTORY

Black History Month African Print Pop Up Shop from a wide range of stylish, Africaninspired women’s wear, including maxi skirts, dresses, trousers, headwraps, and more, all made in Nigeria. Jewelry from South Africa designed by Bukhosi will also be available to buy. Owner and creative director of Besida African, Sophia, will be onsite to give styling tips and answer questions.

Feb. 2, 11am-6pm BIO BIO The Beauty Place (75 John Wesley Dobbs Ave)

Family Black History Program

Take a historic journey as the Eta Omega Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. presents an afternoon of reflection, honoring African American history that is not often told.

Feb. 15, 2pm-4pm Fulton County Library System: Wolf Creek Branch (3100 Enon Rd SW)

Black History Month Black Art Expo

No better way to celebrate Black History Month than by supporting black artists from Atlanta! Join Cascade United Methodist Church all month long for their exposition of local black artists!

Feb. 2 through Mar. 1, 7am-2:30pm daily Cascade United Methodist Church (3144 Cascade Rd SW)

Black Is … Black Ain’t

A free screening of the documentary Black Is … Black Ain’t by filmmaker Marlon Riggs. While the film rejoices in Black diversity, many speakers bare their pain at having been silenced or excluded because they were perceived as “not Black enough” or conversely “too Black.” The film marshals a powerful critique of sexism,

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

A Marvelous Black Boy Art Show

MONDAY, FEB. 3

A free screening of the documentary “Black Is … Black Ain’t” by filmmaker Marlon Riggs. 7pm-10pm Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History (Publicity photo) patriarchy, homophobia, colorism and cultural nationalism in the Black family, church, and other Black institutions.

Feb 3, 7pm-10pm Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History (101 Auburn Ave NE) Register: Eventbrite

12 Community Feature January 31, 2020

The King of Vibes Roy Ayers with Opening DJ Mixmaster Mitch

The “King of Vibes” Roy Ayers returns to Atlanta just in time for Black History Month!

At 79 years old, the jazz funk legend continues to tour the world spreading sunshine through his classic catalog of hit

This art exhibit displaying the work of all black male artists using varying forms of media is aimed toward celebrating black men, the strength in their diversity, and the power in unity. Live art from 30+ spectacular black male artists will be accompanied by live music, performances, vendors, and food and drinks. 21+.

Feb 20 8pm-11:30pm 360 Collaborative Space (500 Bishop St Suite E-5)

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COMMUNITY FEATURE a bonus swag bag filled with samples, coupons, and other giveaways from local Atlanta businesses.

Feb. 15, 1pm-4pm Greenbriar Mall (2841 Greenbriar Parkway SW)

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 2020 Sweet Auburn District BHM Kids Running Tour

Get educated and get fit at the same time!

Go for a run with the little ones and honor Black History Month together by learning more about Atlanta’s historical significance.

Ages 7 and older are welcome to this free event, and food, drinks, and DJ entertainment courtesy of Hip Hop Gives Back will be provided after the tour.

Registration is mandatory.

Feb. 22, 9:30am-12pm Butler Street YMCA (22 Jesse Hill Jr Dr) Registration: Eventbrite

Black Women Speak

This is a safe space and event curated for black women to come together and have an open dialogue about topics and societal issues affecting them in America.

The topic will be Black Women and Our Relationships with Each Other Feb. 16, 2pm-5pm 252 Walker St SW Unit B Tickets: Eventbrite

The Real Black History: Unsung Heroes and Sheroes

Celebrating Black Business: Networking Event

Veteran revolutionary activist/scholar/ organizers Mwalimu Baruti, Professor Griff, and Klonji Jama Changa deliver powerful lessons and introductions to some of the most necessary freedom fighters from the continent of Afrika to the Afrikan Diaspora.

Feb 22, 2pm-6pm Westview Maker Space (1554 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW) Tickets: Eventbrite

This is Atlanta’s fastest-growing network even for black professionals and business owners.

Connect with black business owners, find great organizations for black professionals, enjoy free tastings from local black caterers, bakers, and chefs, and so much more!

Feb. 27, 6pm-9pm Atlantic Station Tickets: Eventbrite

Power Brunch: All Black Experience

ACTIVISM / COMMUNITY

Close out Black History Month with brunch and great conversation. The Power Brunch was conceptualized with the intent to empower, educate, & inspire those in attendance. Enjoy complimentary cocktails at the open bar, brunch, live music and art, and a panel of industry experts who will be providing resources and advice to help you boss up your life.

Feb. 29, 11:30am-3pm MET Atlanta (680 Murphy Ave SW) Tickets: Eventbrite

KIPP Soul Academy Open House and Black History Month Celebration

Celebrate the launch of Black History Month with speakers and performances from Atlanta locals. If you have little ones, you will also have the opportunity to learn more about KIPP Soul Academy, a free public charter middle school opening this fall to rising fifth and sixth graders.

Feb. 1 10am-11:30am KIPP Soul Academy (1445 Maynard Rd NW) Reserve your spot: www.facebook. com/events/173925750491463

A Paradigm Shift 2.0: Black Women Confronting HIV, Health and Social Justice This national two-day summit focuses on the continued impact of HIV/Aids on Black women, hosted by the Sankofa Collaborative. The Sankofa Collaborative is determined to boldly address and ultimately reduce the incidence of HIV by

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EVENT SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, FEB. 22

The Real Black History: Unsung Heroes and Sheroes sees veteran revolutionary activist/scholar/organizers Mwalimu Baruti, Professor Griff, and Klonji Jama Changa deliver powerful lessons and introductions to some of the most necessary freedom fighters from the continent of Afrika to the Afrikan Diaspora.

2pm-6pm Westview Maker Space (Photo via Facebook) adapting a women-centered approach to HIV behavioral and biomedical intervention; providing a forum to interact and strengthen coping skills, share experiences, and discuss effective strategies to promote the health of Black women affected through research, policy, advocacy and social justice.

Feb. 6 at 8am through Feb. 7 at 6pm Loudermilk Conference Center (40 Courtland St NE)

ALL OF (our) LOVE

Tickets:paradigmshiftconference.org

Black Business Expo 2020

This free event open to black small business owners, entrepreneurs, an those dedicated to supporting black business will be filled with great networking opportunities, shopping, food, entertainment, resources, live music, and speeches from some of Atlanta’s most dedicated community leaders. The first 100 guests will also get

This is an interactive holistic wellness workshop for queer women of color, designed to offer participants an opportunity to rest and recharge while building wholesome relationships. The event will feature live numerology and chakra readings, a mimosa/kombucha bar, breakfast bites, and much more.

Feb 29, 10am-2pm The Center for Love and Light (1145 Zonolite Rd NE #10) Tickets: Eventbrite

January 31, 2020 Community Feature 13

FEATURE NEWS

Joining Hearts For Valentine’s Day Conswella Bennett February is the month of love – a time not only for Valentine’s Day but for one of Joining Hearts popular fundraisers, Love on the Rocks on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2020.

This year, the annual Valentine’s cocktail event will be an evening of drinks, food, music, and a live auction, all for a good cause: raising money for the HIV and AIDS community in Atlanta.

Jerry Henderson, president of Joining Hearts, said in an interview that this year’s event with the theme Reverie: Love on the Rocks is very important. “The event is a critical piece for the community because the funds that are raised are put directly back in the Atlanta community to fight HIV/AIDs,” Jerry said.

Unlike many early Valentine’s Day events, Jerry said that Love on the Rocks is a unique event. “It’s an event that has evolved over the years and caters to all demographics that do not attend our Main Event,” he added.

“This event is usually held in an exclusive location boasting the history of Atlanta and also the community.” This year, the event will be held at The Frazer Center.

According to the organization’s website, “This year, the theme of the event is about re-imagining the world if we each elevated our threshold to love one another (and even ourselves); it’s about dreaming how the world would look if we spent the time lifting each other up instead of tearing each other down. It’s about living together in harmony and respect. It’s about re-imagining the world without the stigma of HIV/AIDS.” “The organization decided to build a theme that quantifies the struggles of the LGBTQ community, and each event will personify that with meaning. Reverie is the first one signifying bringing the community together for the common good,” Jerry noted.

Reverie: Love on the Rocks is Joining Hearts’ 33rd year of fundraising activities.

14 Feature January 31, 2020

Joining Hearts “Love On the Rocks” Fundraiser COURTESY PHOTOS

While the mission is the same, Jerry added that each year the Host Committee along with the Director of Events and Director of Special Events, “work tirelessly to bring different options to the event. This year, we are incorporating a Live Auction for the first time. In the past, they have held silent auctions.” The auction will be hosted by Miss Joining Hearts, Celeste Holmes.

For an organization like Joining Hearts, whose mission is to raise money and awareness of AIDS and HIV, they need the community to come out and enjoy an evening of love and reverie all the while raising money for a good cause. According to Jerry, Joining Hearts is a 100 percent allvolunteer 501c3 non-profit whose mission is to raise awareness and funds to support prevention, care and housing assistance to

those impacted by HIV/AIDS in Atlanta.

“Since 1987, Joining Hearts has raised and donated over $2.6 million to local charities in Atlanta,” Jerry added. “Last year’s recipients were AID Atlanta, Lost and Found Youth, Jerusalem House, HOPE ATL, and Project Open Hand.”

The money is awarded in the form of a grant where local ASOs submit a need for review by our Board of Directors via the organization’s website. The Board conducts a thorough review of the submission then decides if it meets the guidelines set forth and the current need of the community, Jerry said.

So, Joining Hearts needs you to make plans to attend Reverie: Love on the Rocks. Specialty cocktails will be provided by Tito’s Handmade

Vodka with expanded bar selections, delicious bites, and beats by DJ Eric James will be just a few of the evening’s highlights.

This year, the event will be held Saturday, Feb. 8 from 5-9 pm at The Frazer Center located at 1815 S. Ponce De Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30307. Tickets are on sale now, and you will want to purchase your tickets early because no tickets will be sold at the door.

Early bird tickets are $50 with $3.49 fee until Feb. 7 after Feb. 7 the price will increase to $60.

Members can renew their Patron status to avoid lines as well as other advantages at all of the Joining Hearts events for 2020. You can visit the Joining Hearts website to find the benefits of becoming a Patron, purchase tickets and see the other ticket options at www.joininghearts.org.

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FEATURE NEWS

Queer Cards for Valentines Day Whether your Valentine’s vice is candy or flowers, don’t forget a cute card to complete the love ensemble!

These adorable Valentine’s Cards from Brushstrokes Pleasures will add to the special day for that special someone!

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January 31, 2020 Feature 15

FEATURE NEWS

16 Feature January 31, 2020

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FEATURE NEWS

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January 31, 2020 Feature 17

FEATURE NEWS

Single and Not-So-Ready to Mingle How to healthily navigate couple-centered holidays as a single person

specializes in working with transgender individuals who are transitioning, and gay men with anxiety and relationship stress.

“During the holidays, people are marketed to as couples … and people who are single are reminded about that pretty much constantly.”

Dallas Anne Duncan

Surround Yourself with Community She said stores putting commercials on TV and radio that suggest their wares as “that special gift” for “that special someone” are a prime example.

The moment Dec. 25 wrapped up, every Target morphed from red to hot pink.

Christmas trees became lace doily hearts, and Shane Co.’s radio commercials swapped from advertising holiday gifts to hawking diamonds to show affection. For folks experiencing the rawness of a recent breakup, holidays like Valentine’s Day can lead to pretty painful emotions.

“Being partnered is almost part of consumerism right now and there’s a lot of expectations,” said Katie Leikam, a Decaturbased licensed clinical social worker who 18 Feature January 31, 2020

Brian Gieringer, a gay Atlanta-based licensed marriage and family therapist, said this kind of marketing can make people feel isolated and alone.

“Partners become an important part of our lives. They’re the first person you would share good news and bad news with. They made you feel supported and loved. When a

relationship ends, it is normal to go through a mourning period,” he said. “It’s important to have a good support network of friends, coworkers or even family members so we feel like part of a community.”

Take a Break From Toxicity Even within that support system, being out and about in a group situation around Valentine’s Day can be jarring for the only single person. For a newly single LGBTQ individual, there’s another layer to the cake: if he’s not out to certain friends and family, for example, a gay man may deal with being asked about when he’s going to find himself a woman for his Valentine.

Gieringer suggests forming a pre-coping strategy to assist in these situations: talk to supportive relatives and friends beforehand and let them know who makes them uncomfortable.

“It’s often surprising that people don’t know

situations bother you until you tell them,” he said. “Another option is to have an exit strategy in place ahead of time.”

Gieringer also advised having affirming folks a phone call away if the need to vent arises.

“Friends can help you remember that you’re not alone and that there are people who care about you,” Gieringer said. “If a situation is really painful, then it might be worthwhile to reassess and see if you are really obliged to take part.”

Make New Memories Holidays are typically times when couples follow traditions, whether that’s a particular date night spot on Valentine’s Day or a specific inside joke gift given every Feb. 14.

Leikam advises her clients to intentionally make new memories and start a new tradition they do by themselves each year, whether or not they have a partner.

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FEATURE NEWS

Doctor Love You’re Listening, But Are You Hearing Your Partner?

Insights for refining your communication skills O’Brian Gunn One of the biggest obstacles preventing a relationship from achieving its full vibrational frequency of joy and connectedness is communication issues. No matter how similar two partners may be, they may differ greatly in terms of communication styles. Additionally, communication styles can shift during a relationship. Learning (or re-learning) how to communicate with your significant other can reignite the spark of love and take a relationship to greater heights and deeper fulfillment.

The Differences in the Queer Community When it comes to discussions surrounding communication, it’s vital to touch on the topic of gender and sexuality. The way a heterosexual couple communicates won’t necessarily mirror the way a same-sex couple communicates.

This is because, despite the relatively recent dramatic shift in ideas and opinions regarding gender and sexuality, many of us were (either consciously or unconsciously) taught communication skills intended to allow us to navigate a gender binary world.

Essentially, we learned that men and women communicate differently. Psych Central notes that cisgender men often learn to converse with a clear intention while cisgender women are usually taught to infuse their side of the conversation with emotion. Men also commonly stick to just the facts without offering many “unnecessary” details while women tend to take a more exploratory approach to their conversations.

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Because listening is part of communication, Psych Central also touches on how men and women listen differently. Women communicate to increase intimacy, and to that end, they often listen with the intention of soothing rather than offering a solution. On the other hand, most men filter conversations down to the information needed to create a solution or offer words of wisdom.

The above includes sweeping generalizations that don’t necessarily account for queer people (or mental health disabilities and disorders).

That said, most of us can at least identify with the above communication styles. Once you realize where you and your partner are individually positioned on the communication spectrum, you have a starting point for improving communication within your relationship. Listening and speaking from your opposite end of the spectrum could help you connect with your partner on a deeper level.

Tips for Improving Communication Now that you have a better idea of where you and your partner may stumble in your communication, it’s time to talk about how to bridge any gaps that the two of you may experience.

Small talk. One tip that Psychology Today recommends is engaging in small talk.

Because most couples don’t often engage in deep emotional conversations every day, they have to find other ways to regularly improve and sustain their connection, making small talk an excellent choice for this goal.

When talking about what restaurant to eat at or what to do this weekend, try to take a genuine interest in what your partner communicates.

Look for opportunities to gauge your partner’s current emotional state and share what you feel at the moment, as well. Termed “detailed

inquiry” by American psychologist Harry Stack Sullivan, this approach aims to uncover more about who a person is at her or his core.

Active hearing. Another way to strengthen communication in your relationship is to listen with intention. Diving deeper, you want to let your partner know that you aren’t just listening, but hearing, as well, which are two very different things. Non-verbal communication, such as occasionally nodding your head while your partner speaks, is undoubtedly vital, but so is indicating that you understand what your partner communicates. If your partner brings up a funny or touching anecdote, smile to show that you understand what’s being said. If your partner talks about having a bad day at work or a problem, you can take his/her/their hand.

Because there may be times when you truly don’t understand what your partner is trying to say, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification, just make sure you ask for permission before interrupting.

Balance listening and speaking. One area where you may fall short in your relationship is balancing how much you talk with how much you listen. If you aren’t much of a talker, look for opportunities to open up with your partner and let him/her/them know what’s on your mind. Using the

above tip about engaging in small talk is a good place to start. When you do share seemingly inconsequential details, look for opportunities to add your emotions or opinions to what you say. You never know when doing so could set the stage for an engaging conversation with your partner.

On the other hand, you may talk more than you listen. If you do, work on learning how to rephrase what your partner says to you, a technique that therapists call “reflecting.”

Through rephrasing, you “translate” what your partner says in terms that you’re more familiar with, which better ensures there’s no unintentional miscommunication. Another way to listen more than you speak is to look for opportunities to include your partner in what you’re saying. No matter if you struggle with listening or talking, verbally communicate to your partner your desire to be better at either. Doing so shows you’re invested in your partner and your relationship.

Even if things are going well in your relationship, it doesn’t hurt to sharpen your communication skills. Never underestimate how staying tuned in to your partner can kindle your relationship and keep the heart fires burning.

January 31, 2020 Feature 19

JIM FARMER ACTING OUT

“Bull in a China Shop” Opens at Out Front It’s a comedy, as well as a period piece of sorts, and a lesbian love story to boot.

“Bull in a China Shop” has just opened at Out Front Theatre Company.

“Bull in a China Shop” COURTESY PHOTO

Director Susan Reid read the play when she was looking for possible productions to stage at Georgia State University, where she serves as an acting/directing professor. She fell in love with it and tried to get the rights to produce it, but was told someone else had the rights to do it locally. When she realized it was Out Front, she met with artistic director Paul Conroy and the two decided they should jointly produce the show. During this time, Reid was writing a CENCIA grant through GSU and the grant was crucial for the two parties to be able to pay for the production.

The show is inspired by the previous president of Mount Holyoke College – Mary Woolley – and her relationship with her partner Jeannette Marks that spanned from 1899 to 1937. Woolley was the president for almost 40 years and she brought her lover Marks – a teacher and writer 15 years younger – from Wesley College. During the course of their relationship, both did extensive traveling and were away from each other so they wrote a lot of love letters.

According to Reid, the letters were kept and the school put them in a box and hoped no one would see them. They were brought out eventually and a book was written about the situation and an art gallery exhibit was held in conjunction with the combined letters.

Playwright Bryna Turner follows the women’s relationship, though it’s not told in a strict chronological order. “What’s so lovely is that it combines the love story part of their relationship with historically what was going on at the time and how it affected Wooley’s tenure as president. There is a lot of 20 Columnist January 31, 2020

talk about the suffrage and there is mention of the wars that took place.”

The relationship wasn’t a secret. “People were aware of the fact,” says Reid. “Mary would walk Jeannette to her school housing and kiss her goodnight. Mary ultimately had a president’s house built and Jeannette moved in with her. So people knew. Honestly, I think the reason they asked Woolley to step down was 1937 was that the pendulum had swung and people were moving to a more conservative place. Her replacement was a family man with a child. After 100 years of the school being led by a women, the school hired a man.”

Making matters worse was that during the time, options for women were sparse. “Women during this time were marred or were teaching or were nurses,” says Reid. “That was it. The women teaching were spinsters and unmarried.

That was their societal place.”

“Bull in a China Shop” is a fairly new play that was produced by the Lincoln Center black box space in 2017. It’s a very specific

play, Reid says. “I went to a women’s college and what’s here isn’t archaic. Turner takes this period piece and makes it modern. There is a lot of modern language not spoken in a period way. Turner calls it a comedy but it walks a line. Some things are funny but some things are heart-wrenching too.”

Elsewhere, Out of Box Theatre has just opened the drama “We Are a Masterpiece.”

Taking place as the AIDS crisis has just begun, “Masterpiece” focuses on a nononsense nurse who steps up to take care of gay men as they begin dying en masse. She eventually takes in an artist and becomes something of a mother figure to him.

MORE INFO “Bull in a China Shop” Through Feb. 15 Out Front Theatre Company “We Are a Masterpiece” Through Feb. 2 Out of Box Theatre

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ARTS AT A GLANCE JANUARY 31-FEBRUARY 13 FRIDAY, JAN. 31

personality kept the two apart at the precise moments they should have been closest.

8pm, through Feb. 16 Actor’s Express

Cliterati present the OUTrageous Voices Cabaret and Fundraiser with cohosts Karen G. & Beki B. OUTrageous Voices Cabaret introduces a cavalcade of poets, novelists, essayists, musicians and journalists. The evening’s proceeds will benefit OUTrageous Voices: An Inclusive Southeastern Lesbian Writers’ Conference.

Suggested donation: $5-50.

7:30 – 9pm Charis Books & More “Salome,” Richard Strauss’ twisted tale of a depraved tyrant, his bewitching stepdaughter, and her unholy infatuation with John the Baptist, is making its debut at The Atlanta Opera. Based on the play by Oscar Wilde, the opera scandalized the music world from its 1905 premiere well into the 1930s and continues to captivate with its sublimely rich musical tapestries.

8pm tonight, 3pm Sunday Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

SATURDAY, FEB.1

Join MAAP today for a networking brunch and an interview with MAAP President August Wogsland, President Emeritus Joshua D. Lorenz, and former President Brandon Hornibrook – hosted and recorded live by MAAP sponsor Meak Productions. The event kicks off at 10am at OxWork with bagels, schmear, coffee and mimosas as well as open networking.

At 11am key MAAP leaders will look back on the organization’s history since its founding in 1992 as well as share their vision for continuing to pioneer inclusion for our community.

10am Atlanta Prime Timers meets today.

3pm Phillip Rush Center Annex

MONDAY, FEB.3

Trans and Friends is a youth-focused group for trans people, people questioning their own gender and aspiring allies, providing a facilitated space to discuss gender, relevant resources and activism around social issues.

6:30 – 8pm Charis Books and More To coincide with the current “Bull in a China Shop,” Out On Film and Out Front

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SUNDAY, FEB. 9

HRC Atlanta hosts a Mimosa Bar and Brunch fundraiser for Lucy McBath.

RSVP on their website and the address will be sent to you.

1 – 3pm

EVENT SPOTLIGHT TUESDAY, FEB. 11

After breaking box office records week after week and receiving unanimous raves on Broadway, “Hello, Dolly!” is now touring America, paying tribute to the original work of legendary direct and choreographer Gower Champion. 7:30pm, through Feb.16. Fox Theatre (Publicity photo) present the acclaimed comedy “Wild Nights With Emily.” In the mid19th century, Emily Dickinson is writing prolifically, baking gingerbread, and enjoying a passionate, lifelong romantic relationship with another woman, her friend and sister-in-law Susan.

6:30pm Out Front Theatre Company The PFLAG support group for parents and families of LGBTQ children meets today.

7:30 – 9pm Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta

THURSDAY, FEB. 6

Georgia Equality hosts AIDS Watch Georgia 2020 today. People living with HIV live, work, and thrive in every legislative district across our state, but many state lawmakers are unaware of the issues that affect our diverse community. This event will provide a free training on how to educate state legislators at the Capitol on HIV policy.

Following the training, participants will stand united under the Gold Dome to put their training into action. Attendees will have an opportunity to talk one-on-one with their representatives in the House and Senate.

Participants will educate elected officials on issues like HIV criminalization, HIV education, HIV prevention/care funding, healthcare

access, LGBTQ rights, racial justice and reproductive justice. Training and a light breakfast are provided to all attendees.

8:30am – Noon Atlanta City Hall OUT Georgia is calling all LGBTQ+ and allied business professionals, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs to join OUT Georgia’s 2020 Kickoff & Membership Drive tonight. Hosted

by The Coca-Cola Company and its beautiful corporate headquarters, this free networking event will be one of the largest LGBTQ+ and allied business networking events of the year. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and refreshing Coca-Cola products while networking and learning how OUT Georgia proudly serves the community as Georgia’s only LGBTQ+ and allied chamber of commerce.

5:30 – 8pm

FRIDAY, FEB. 7

Based on Alison Bechdel’s bestselling graphic memoir of the same name, the LGBTQ-themed “Fun Home” took Broadway by storm and cemented itself as one of the landmark musicals of our time. Alison dives into her past to trace the sequence of childhood events that made her the adult she is today. In doing so, she initiates a journey of reconciliation with her late father, whose mercurial and secretive

“1917” or “Parasite?” Is Renee Zellweger a shoo-in? Out On Film, The Plaza Foundation, Bronzelens, Women in Film and Television – Atlanta and the Atlanta Film Society host Awards Viewing Party – Film’s Biggest Night with trivia, raffle prizes, a costume contest and more.

6:30pm

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 12

Wussy Wednesdays is back with a screening of the classic movie musical “Moulin Rouge.” Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your besties at this one-night special screening of Baz Luhrmann’s classic 2001 musical, starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor. Don’t miss the pre-show starring your favorite Atlanta drag starlets, Following the pre-show will be a costume contest.

7 – 10pm Set in the not-too-distant future in Seoul, Korea, “Maybe Happy Ending” follows two obsolete helper-bots who are living an isolated existence in a robots-only housing complex on the edge of the city. Oliver is waiting for his former-owner to come looking for him, and Claire is just … waiting. When the two discover each other across the hall, they have a surprising connection that challenges what they believe is possible for themselves, relationships, and love. This award-winning musical imagines a magical and bittersweet reawakening to the things that make us human.

7:30pm, through Feb. 16 Alliance Theatre It’s back! Designing Women LIVE runs for three nights as a fundraiser for The Process Theatre and Onstage Atlanta, starring Topher Payne, DeWayne Morgan, Johnny Drago, Larry Davis and Stuart Schleuse.

8pm through Feb. 14.

Onstage Atlanta

January 31, 2020 Arts at a Glance 21

CLIFF BOSTOCK EATING MY WORDS

Studio Bistro PHOTOS BY CLIFF BOSTOCK

Falafel Waffles, Bulgogi Burgers, and Corned-beef Mountains Cliff Bostock The holidays have, at last, released us from their suffocating grip. Every year, they pin us down and shove food down our throats for a month. Then we spend the first three weeks of January rolling around in saunas and waiting in line to use cardio equipment in gyms packed with people whose New Year’s resolutions will expire in two days. Life is hard. Here’s three spots where I spread my holiday magic.

Wonderkid: The seemingly largest mixeduse redevelopment on Memorial Drive is still underway at the old Atlanta Dairies in Reynoldstown. For now, the biggest attraction is Wonderkid, a fancy diner from a team of culinary magicians who own the King of Pops, Bon Ton and The Lawrence. The look is definitely not about flashy metal, fluorescent lighting, and a super-fast meal. It’s almost moody at night with shadows and groovy music. There are multiple menus. One offers five breakfast dishes available 8-11 a.m. only. I want the biscuits and country ham. Then there’s a “breakfast all day” menu with heavier dishes like a sirloin steak with eggs and pepper gravy.

Yet another menu, the “main” one, offers the slightly kooky stuff you expect from Chef Justin Dixon. Among my favorites are the deviled eggs topped with country ham and a strand of

The Corned-Beef Sandwich @ Public School 404

pickled okra. I also like the falafel waffle topped with tabbouleh, roasted eggplant, gem lettuce, and sunflower sprouts. The chicken pot pie is a paean to puff pastry. (777 Memorial Dr., 404331-0720, wonderkidatl.com.)

Street Bistro: I know you’ve been curious about this venue that has replaced Hong Kong Harbour, the 40-year-old Cantonese favorite on Cheshire Bridge. Well, it is inexplicably strange. It’s been largely, but not entirely, stripped of its earlier Chinese ornamentation and replaced with nothing much more than tables and chairs on a huge concrete floor. There’s a station to order from a quite mixed menu of wings, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, and rice dishes. I’ve only sampled two dishes. The “Korean

burger” was a tasty enough bun stuffed with sliced bulgogi. There’s a plant-based burger that was likewise okay. Fries were fine. I’m guessing the idea is that other tenants might move in to create a food hall. (2184 Cheshire Bridge Rd., 404-325-7630, atlstreetbistro.com.)

Public School 404: For reasons that confused the rest of us, a friend wanted to celebrate his birthday with a first-time lunch at this twoyear-old chain gastro-pub in West Midtown.

He’s an adventurous diner. Unfortunately – ask any critic – that often means you’re going to eat a lot more mediocre than really good food. And so it was. Much of the food’s description seemed promising and was nicely plated, like “fiery calamari” with togarashi (a powdered, hot spice), ginger aioli, and

The Falafel Waffle @ Wonderkid

habanero rice wine vinegar. I can forgive them for not providing a matchstick’s worth of fire, but the calamari was way overcooked.

A lunch deal featured half a reuben sandwich that featured what looked like half a pound of corn beef with the requisite sauerkraut, gruyere cheese, and thousand island dressing.

But when you picked up the thing, you encountered absurdly flimsy bread and when you took a bite, the corned beef’s flavor was rather dull. Okay, I ate every bite. If I’d seen the dessert menu with the Nutella cookie sandwich, I might have left happier. (930 Howell Mill Rd., 404-817-0984, psontap.com) Cliff Bostock is a longtime Atlanta restaurant critic and former psychotherapist turned life coach; cliffbostock@gmail.com.

22 Columnist January 31, 2020 TheGeorgiaVoice.com

NIGHTLIFE AT A GLANCE JANUARY 31-FEBRUARY 13 FRIDAY, JAN. 31

Tired of standing around looking pensive but warm, fierce but approachable, and yet that mega crush of yours still hasn’t come up to you? All you gotta do is go up and be all like- “hey, wanna make out with me for a photo? you get a free shot” and they go “um yes duh” and then the rest is drunk history. Come and join the first ever Atlanta Make Out Party.

9pm – 3am Heretic Atlanta

They are an Atlanta institution and the Armorettes have a drag show tonight at Midtown Moon.

TUESDAY, FEB. 4

Enjoy bachata, merengue and salsa music at Latino Tuesdays.

Blake’s on the Park

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 5

Thad Stevens hosts karaoke every Wednesday at My Sister’s Room.

SUNDAY, FEB. 2

FRIDAY, FEB. 7

Watch the Super Bowl today with the Kansas City Chiefs taking on the San Francisco 49ers.

6pm Woofs Atlanta

SATURDAY, FEB. 8

DJ Deanne takes over Xion after hours with non-stop dancing all morning long!

3am – 7am BJ Roosters

CHUNK, the international bear party, returns to Atlanta! Music by CAKES and Vicki Powell! Discounted tickets online via their Facebook event page.

10pm – 3am Heretic Atlanta

Enjoy live performances and have some great eats as you enjoy Twisted Soul’s Drag Brunch hosted by Amber Devine with music by DJ Shalion.

Noon – 2pm GLAMOROUS returns to Heretic Atlanta with a special LOVE ON FIRE themed party just in time for Valentine’s Day! DJ Ben Bakson will provide some of the best beats Atlanta has ever heard!

10pm – 3am

SUNDAY, FEB. 9

Xion after hours returns with DJ Alexander for music all morning long until the sun rises.

3am – 7am BJ Roosters

MONDAY, FEB. 10

Play Texas Hold’Em Poker at Friends Neighborhood Bar. 8pm

EVENT SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, FEB. 1

DILF returns to Atlanta with a special “Kinky Beats” party featuring DJ Kitty Glitter from Sydney, Australia.

10pm – 3am. Heretic Atlanta (Photo via Facebook)

UPCOMING FRIDAY, FEB. 14

Cupid put down his arrows and decided to make people dance this year, Mark your calendars for Bless Yr Heart – A Queer Valentine’s Dance Party put on by Southern Fried Queer Pride.

The event celebrates queer love in all of its forms: relationships, self-love, community

EVENT SPOTLIGHT TUESDAY, FEB. 11

Are you in love? Are you looking for love? Are you over Cupid and his nonsense?

No matter the answer, PALS Is In The Air Drag Queen Bingo is the place for you.

Hostess Bubba D. Licious, the PALS queens (Erica Lee, Patsy Jon Benet, and Desiree Storm), and special guest performers will be giving their interpretations of love to call bingo, put on a show, and help raise money for PALS. 7:30 – 9:30pm. Lips Atlanta (Photo via Facebook) love, and more. The night will feature DJ sets by chel xi (PRISM) & Jsport (Club Morph) and performances by Evangeline Laveau, JayBella Banks, La Reina, Paege Turner, and SZN ALXNDR as well as a super queer, kitsch photo booth.

10pm – 2am The Bakery Atlanta

SATURDAY, FEB. 15

Deep South presents Horse Meat Disco tonight, with Cody and Phoenix at the door. Initially established in 2003 at The Eagle in London’s Vauxhall, Horse Meat Disco has evolved into a powerful force in queer and club culture as a whole, while staying local to its original home, each and every Sunday. Co-founded by James Hillard and Jim Stanton, and encompassing

residents Severino and Luke Howard, the crew continue to maintain not only the weekly party, but a number of residencies in cities across the world, alongside a kaleidoscope of club appearances, festival dates and specially curated mixes.

10pm – 3am Heretic Atlanta

SATURDAY, FEB. 22

Jujubee from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” is coming to town for a hilarious night of comedy queens. The event features comedic drag performances from some of your favorite local performers: Brigitte Bidet, Phoenix, Iv Fischer, Miss He, Mo’Dest Volgare, Molly Rimswell, TJ Maxxx. SHI, Dynisty St. James and more.

9pm – 2am My Sister’s Room

24 Nightlife at a Glance January 31, 2020 TheGeorgiaVoice.com

NIGHTLIFE SPOTLIGHT

DJ Ben Bakson PUBLICITY PHOTO

Glamorous Brings Love to the Dance Floor Patrick Colson-Price Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Billy Banderas Productions brings the Atlanta circuit crowd a unique party called Love on Fire. “I wanted to come up with something original,” said Banderas. “I wanted to give people a reason to dress up for a theme and it’s something different.”

In its second year, the Glamorous party has had a so-called re-birth with superstar international DJ Ben Bakson on the decks with the hottest beats. It’s Bakson’s debut in Atlanta which is a definite draw for Banderas’s event. Atlanta’s local DJ, Sean Michael, opens up the night to get the party started.

According to Banderas, all pre-sale tickets have sold out for the Feb. 8 party at Heretic Atlanta. On that Saturday night, the club will be decked out in new artwork along with an extra layer of technology to bring the party to life. “We’re going to see some TheGeorgiaVoice.com

surprises some cool sparkles and laser shows in addition to the lasers that are already at Heretic,” said Banderas.

But aside from the night’s festivities, Banderas is hoping to leave a lasting impression on Atlanta’s LGBTQ community. “The goal for Billy Banderas Productions is to always give back to the community,” he said. “I’m looking to work with other charities to help support our LGBTQ community.”

Tickets for Love on Fire can be purchased at bbproductions.ticketleap.com. The party goes from 10pm until 3am, and costumes are encouraged.

MORE INFO GLAMOUROUS PARTY Heretic Atlanta 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road Atlanta, GA 30324 404.325.3061

January 31, 2020 Nightlife Spotlight 25

MELISSA CARTER THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

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The Sound Machine Fiasco Companies spend a lot of money on research into how to retain employees and create a cohesive work environment that each member of the team wants to stay in. I recently learned that all a company really needs to spend their money on to achieve that … is a sound machine.

The leaders at my workplace recently traveled to the Midwest to visit a partner company and take a tour of their facility. One found a sound machine in the restroom, used to help mask any natural sounds that were coming from the stalls. Thinking this was a great idea for us, she had someone buy such a product and place it in the women’s bathroom here.

Problem was, she was not back in the office yet and no one was told of the change.

I find that change is not a popular occurrence for anyone, no matter how small that change may be. The day the sound machine was added to the ladies’ facility proved to be a memorable one, and an event that brought all the women in the office together in a sorority of confusion.

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26 Columnist January 31, 2020

That morning I went to the restroom to find a colleague standing in the corner near the door. I greeted her and she informed me that she was going to listen to me pee.

Having never had that invitation before, I reluctantly nodded in agreement and carried on. Realizing I didn’t get the joke she told me about the new device on the counter and how it got there. I hadn’t had a chance to notice it yet, assuming the white noise it was projecting was the ventilation system.

Curious too now, I did what I came there to do but could still hear what was happening.

As more women used the bathroom to find the strange new noise, reactions varied.

Several could be seen throughout the day simply staring at this new machine. Some quickly turned it off, while others made sure to turn it back on. Sometimes it was loud, sometimes it was softly playing static, but regardless of the variation I found it to be one of my favorite days at the office.

A cluster of women came to grab me at one point, and we changed the sound from that of white noise to birds chirping in nature.

That gave others permission to alter the sound to a lullaby or a running river stream.

The odd heartbeat sound was a little too creepy for everyone affected. By the end of the day all you had to do was make eye contact with another woman and both of you would grin like little girls.

When the stress of your workload becomes stressful, or your private life is such that you use work to escape from it, something as insignificant as a speaker on the bathroom sink can ease your troubles and give you a good laugh. What our manager didn’t realize with the new purchase was the forced camaraderie it produced in the building. She may end up disappointed with the result of masking bodily sounds but she can be satisfied in knowing the women I work with and I are now closer because of the experience.

One of the first out radio personalities in Atlanta, Melissa’s worked for B98.5 and Q100.

Catch her daily on theProgressive Voices podcast “She Persisted.” Tweet her! @MelissaCarter TheGeorgiaVoice.com

RYAN LEE SOMETIMES ‘Y’

Gay Men & Other Peoples’ Plague My new kitten is utterly adorable, and I bet she tastes delicious, too.

Fixie’s bright enough to play fetch, sharp enough to catch onto the tricks I use to get her out of my bedroom, and has such a lively character that it would probably take minimal seasoning to turn her into a zesty snack or enchanting meal.

While I have no insatiable taste for cat, especially one I’ve already named, I’ve never felt most Americans’ nausea at the idea of eating what our culture has classified as pets.

I’ve always assumed if I visited a country where a dog or cat was on a menu, I would order them if only to see if everything really tastes like chicken.

The coronavirus scare has heightened the sense of superiority Americans have inherited because the dead animal flesh we consume comes from pigs and cows rather than cats or hamsters. Social media and traditional outlets have looped videos of Asians dining on bat wings and ox penises, and a consensus has developed that a potential plague can be traced to Chinese taste buds.

There may indeed be immediate health risks to human beings eating certain animals, reptiles or insects, but that determination should not be made by the average citizen of a country where folks cook up squirrels, armadillos, and other roadkill; or where every menu in every restaurant is required to remind diners about the risks of eating raw or undercooked meat and eggs.

Our traditional perceptions of native Chinese cuisine make it hard to discern panic from prejudice, but much of the reaction I’ve seen about the coronavirus has been undoubtedly bigoted. There’s a desperation to make sure it remains exclusively a Chinese problem and a growing resentment that it appears to be too late for that.

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

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snappyservices.com Liberty-loving patriots have cheered the quarantining of a city with a population twenty-two times larger than Atlanta, and have indicated an openness to whatever is necessary to assure the illness is contained. Sadly, the mob rising in defense of American health includes many members of the demographic most recently threatened with indiscriminate quarantine in the United States.

As with the residents of Wuhan, China, it was gay men’s behavior and (sexual) appetites that were blamed for our own health crisis in the early ’80s. The handful of deaths traced to the coronavirus are unfortunate, but thus far are nowhere near as alarming as the expected 100 percent fatality rate AIDS maintained for a decade-and-a-half.

Both contemporaneously and as a tenet of LGBTQ history, we shame American society for the paranoia and heartlessness with which it confronted a new virus. We demand a retroactive empathy that apparently does not come naturally to many of us when facing another people’ plague.

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It’s unclear whether this strain of coronavirus will follow the course of SARS and swine flu, establish a permanent worldwide presence similar to HIV/AIDS or unleash an epidemic of instantaneous transmission, suffering, and death. It’s understandable for folks to root against the last two possibilities, and for health officials to take steps to achieve the first.

However, gay men specifically – and queer folks and minorities, in general – must always be leery of adopting mindsets and endorsing tactics that were once used to dehumanize us simply because our lives and dignity aren’t on the menu this time.

January 31, 2020 Columnist 27