November 1, 2017 :: The Power Issue

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CONTENTS NOVEMBER 1, 2017 VOL41 NO21

53 13 HOW TO SHOW YOUR POWER IN THE TRUMP ERA 17 2017’S POWER WINNERS: 48 A (GODLESS) PRAYER FOR AMERICA 55 DUELING WITH DEPRESSION: FRAGMENTS 57 HEINZESIGHT: THE LAND OF THE CYBER-BULLIES

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SERVING THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY OF THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS SINCE 1976 PHONE 303-477-4000 FAX 303-325-2642 WEB OutFrontMagazine.com FACEBOOK /OutFrontColorado TWITTER @OutFrontCO INSTAGRAM /OutFrontColorado FOUNDER PHIL PRICE 1954-1993 ADMINISTRATION info@outfrontmagazine.com JERRY CUNNINGHAM Publisher J.C. MCDONALD Vice President MAGGIE PHILLIPS Operations Manager JEFF JACKSON SWAIM Chief Strategist EDITORIAL editorial@outfrontmagazine.com RYAN HOWE Editor ADDISON HERRON-WHEELER Digital Content Manager BRENT HEINZE Senior Columnist SARAH FARBMAN Copy Editor SOPHIA ALESSI Intern ARIANNA BALDERAMMA Intern WRITERS Rick Kitzman, Mike Yost ART art@outfrontmagazine.com DESIGN2PRO Graphic Designer CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS Charles Broshous, Deirdre Fritz, Eric Magnusson MARKETING + SALES marketing@outfrontmagazine.com HARRISON SCHAFFER Director of Sales & Marketing SARAH JACOBSON Marketing Executive BRENNAN GALLAGHER Marketing Executive NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 | sales@rivendellmedia.com

DISTRIBUTION

OUT FRONT’s print publication is available semi-monthly, free of charge, one copy per person. Additional copies of OUT FRONT may be purchased for $3.95 each, payable in advance at OUT FRONT offices located at 3535 Walnut Street, Denver CO, 80205. OUT FRONT is delivered only to authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of OUT FRONT, take more than one copy of OUT FRONT. Any person who takes more than one copy may be held liable for theft, including but not limited to civil damages and or criminal prosecution.

COPYRIGHT & LIMIT OF LIABILITY

Reproduction of editorial, photographic or advertising content without written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Advertisers are responsible for securing rights to any copyrighted material within their advertisements. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims of advertisers and reserves the right to reject any advertising. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles or advertising is not to be considered an indication of the sexual orientation or HIV status of such person or organization. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage of materials submitted. OPINIONS EXPRESSED are not necessarily those of OUT FRONT, its staff, or advertisers.

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$1,000 Matching Down thru November

RESERVATION OF RIGHTS

Q Publishing Group, LTD is the owner of all right, title, and interest in the OUT FRONT brand and logo. No person or entity may reproduce or use (or authorize the reproduction or use of) the OUT FRONT brand and logo in any manner other than expressly authorized by Q Publishing Group.

Unauthorized use of the OUT FRONT brand and logo is strictly prohibited.

OUT FRONT is published by Q Publishing, Ltd., a Colorado corporation and is a member of: NEPA, Denver Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, and Denver Drama Critics Circle.

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Presented by:

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LEGAL DIRECTORY

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The period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is meant to be a joyous time to celebrate with family and friends.

Yet many of those celebrations include alcohol, and for those who are abstaining from alcohol, parties and gatherings can be especially challenging. In addition, visitors, family gatherings, extra expenses, and end-of-year pressures at work can lead to additional stress—and urges to drink.

But it is possible to enjoy the holidays alcohol-free: • Find a favorite non-alcoholic drink and don’t be afraid to ask for it. People who don’t imbibe can feel left out of the party when it comes to drink choices, but there are plenty of options that say

“celebration” without the booze.

• Start new traditions or look for new ways to celebrate. If past holidays involved alcohol, doing the same activities can trigger a desire to drink.

Creating a new, alcohol-free tradition can support your sobriety and keep you on the right path.

• Identify potential sources of holiday stress and make a plan to cope—without a drink. Good options include exercise, taking time for yourself, and talking with a supportive friend or professional.

• Embrace being the designated driver.

Make your sobriety a gift to your friends and family by ensuring they get home safely after a celebration.

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The opinions expressed in this article are general in nature. For specific legal advice, please contact an attorney.

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What is TRUVADA for PrEP?

Who should not take TRUVADA for PrEP?

TRUVADA for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a prescription medicine that is used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1. To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health.

Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to prevent getting HIV. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: ® Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status. If you are HIV-1 positive, you need to take other medicines with TRUVADA to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time. ® Also take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about TRUVADA for PrEP? Before taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-negative. ® Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. If you have flu-like symptoms, you could have recently become infected with HIV-1. Tell your healthcare provider if you had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting or at any time while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin.

While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1. ® You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP: ® Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. ® If you think you were exposed to HIV-1, tell your healthcare provider right away. ® To further help reduce your risk of getting HIV-1: ® Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners. ® Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you. ® Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners. ® Do not miss any doses of TRUVADA. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection. ® If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. TRUVADA by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time.

TRUVADA can cause serious side effects: ® Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV and stop taking TRUVADA, your HBV may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health.

What are the other possible side effects of TRUVADA for PrEP? Serious side effects of TRUVADA may also include: ® Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your kidneys before and during treatment with TRUVADA. If you develop kidney problems, your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking TRUVADA. ® Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. ® Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain. ® Bone problems, including bone pain, softening, or thinning, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.

Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP are stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking TRUVADA for PrEP? ® All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis. ® If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TRUVADA can harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking TRUVADA for PrEP, talk to your healthcare provider to decide if you should keep taking TRUVADA. ® If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can be passed to the baby in breast milk. ® All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-thecounter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. TRUVADA may interact with other medicines. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. ® If you take certain other medicines with TRUVADA, your healthcare provider may need to check you more often or change your dose.

These medicines include certain medicines to treat hepatitis C (HCV) infection.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Important Facts about TRUVADA for PrEP including important warnings on the following page.

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We’re adventurous, not reckless.

We know who we are. And we make choices that fit our lives.

TRUVADA for PrEP™ is a once-daily prescription medicine that can help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 when taken every day and used together with safer sex practices. ® TRUVADA for PrEP is only for adults who are at high risk of getting HIV through sex. ® You must be HIV-negative before you start taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

Ask your doctor about your risk of getting HIV-1 infection and if TRUVADA for PrEP may be right for you.

Learn more at truvada.com OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

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IMPORTANT FACTS

This is only a brief summary of important information about taking TRUVADA for PrEPTM (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection. This does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your medicine.

(tru-VAH-dah) MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP Before starting TRUVADA for PrEP: • You must be HIV-1 negative. You must get tested to make sure that you do not already have HIV-1. Do not take TRUVADA for PrEP to reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 unless you are confirmed to be HIV-1 negative.

• Many HIV-1 tests can miss HIV-1 infection in a person who has recently become infected. Symptoms of new HIV-1 infection include flu-like symptoms, tiredness, fever, joint or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, night sweats, and/or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had a flu-like illness within the last month before starting TRUVADA for PrEP. While taking TRUVADA for PrEP: • You must continue to use safer sex practices. Just taking TRUVADA for PrEP may not keep you from getting HIV-1.

• You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you think you were exposed to HIV-1 or have a flu-like illness while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. • If you do become HIV-1 positive, you need more medicine than TRUVADA alone to treat HIV-1. If you have HIV-1 and take only TRUVADA, your HIV-1 may become harder to treat over time.

• See the “How To Further Reduce Your Risk” section for more information.

TRUVADA may cause serious side effects, including: • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. TRUVADA is not approved to treat HBV. If you have HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking TRUVADA. Do not stop taking TRUVADA without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.

ABOUT TRUVADA FOR PrEP TRUVADA for PrEP is a prescription medicine used together with safer sex practices to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 through sex. This use is only for HIV-negative adults who are at high risk of getting HIV-1.

• To help determine your risk of getting HIV-1, talk openly with your healthcare provider about your sexual health.

Do NOT take TRUVADA for PrEP if you: • Already have HIV-1 infection or if you do not know your HIV-1 status.

• Take certain medicines to treat hepatitis B infection.

HOW TO TAKE TRUVADA FOR PrEP • Take 1 tablet once a day, every day, not just when you think you have been exposed to HIV-1.

• Do not miss any doses. Missing doses may increase your risk of getting HIV-1 infection.

• Use TRUVADA for PrEP together with condoms and safer sex practices.

• Get tested for HIV-1 at least every 3 months. You must stay HIV-negative to keep taking TRUVADA for PrEP.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF TRUVADA FOR PrEP TRUVADA can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “Most Important Information About TRUVADA for PrEP” section.

• New or worse kidney problems, including kidney failure.

• Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

• Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

• Bone problems.

Common side effects in people taking TRUVADA for PrEP include stomach-area (abdomen) pain, headache, and decreased weight.

These are not all the possible side effects of TRUVADA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking TRUVADA for PrEP. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with TRUVADA for PrEP.

BEFORE TAKING TRUVADA FOR PrEP Tell your healthcare provider if you: • Have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis.

• Have any other medical conditions.

• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

• Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. If you become HIV-positive, HIV can pass to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take: • Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about medicines that should not be taken with TRUVADA for PrEP.

HOW TO FURTHER REDUCE YOUR RISK • Know your HIV status and the HIV status of your partners.

• Get tested for other sexually transmitted infections. Other infections make it easier for HIV to infect you.

• Get information and support to help reduce risky sexual behavior, such as having fewer sex partners.

• Do not share needles or personal items that can have blood or body fluids on them.

GET MORE INFORMATION • This is only a brief summary of important information about TRUVADA for PrEP. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more, including how to prevent HIV infection.

• Go to start.truvada.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5 • If you need help paying for your medicine, visit start.truvada.com for program information.

TRUVADA FOR PREP, the TRUVADA FOR PREP Logo, the TRUVADA Blue Pill Design, TRUVADA, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. All other marks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners.

Version date: April 2017 © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. TVDC0110 07/17

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HOW TO SHOW YOUR POWER IN THE TRUMP ERA

By Addison Herron-Wheeler

D

aily events shape how we see the world and how we feel or show our power. A good day at work can make you feel powerful at home, and a powerful intimate encounter or important conversation can leave you glowing the next day at work. So it’s no surprise that in this political climate, many are left without any sort of feeling of power at all. A deluge of negative events, from our supreme Cheeto’s rulings to shootings and widespread hate, leave us feeling like ‘why bother’ when it comes to the important things we are trying to do.

Yes, things are a little bleak right now, but that is precisely why we need to show and reclaim the power that we have. Here are a few ways to keep your head above water when the water just keeps coming and coming.

Vote in Local Elections While last November may have been a huge wash and completely flooring for a lot of people, keep in mind that elections are happening this year as well, although not on a presidential level.

You can make major change on a smaller scale to help things stay inclusive here in Colorado. Learn about your reps and the laws that are getting introduced, and vote to insure that we all keep our liberties.

Use Your Social Media Voice Wisely It’s super tempting sometimes to go off on a bigoted social media user or post an extremely dismal story with a caption like “get me off this planet.” While both of those things can be cathartic in their own weird ways, they also add to the overall negativity that everyone is bombarded with all the time. Use your social media presence for good instead of evil.

Share stories that are not Fake News (always Google what you share for a quick fact check, or make sure you trust the publication a story is coming from), share good news as well as bad, and try to focus on education instead of instigation if you choose to engage with someone who has different views than your own. In fact, your internetting mantras should consist of two simple idioms: you catch more flies with honey, and don’t feed the trolls.

Get Involved in Your Queer Community Sometimes the world can seem so isolating, especially when you have some stretches that are nothing but work, home, and reading the news on your phone. It can really help to get out

there and get involved when you are feeling hopeless or helpless.

Volunteering or joining an organization is great, but this could also be as simple as getting out of your own head to see a drag show or have a few drinks with your friends. Relaxation is key to regaining and maintaining your power.

Speak Up When You See Injustice There may be times when you are confronted with injustice or prejudice head-on. Of course there may be some battles you don’t feel comfortable fighting, and that is OK. But if you start to call out jokes that you feel are in poor taste, or confront the friend that is nervous about walking through a certain part of town in the middle of the day, you may start to feel like you have a little more control. No, you may not be able to change the world, or even change anyone’s mind, but if you get people thinking about what they say and do, that’s a step in the right direction.

Use Your Platform You may have a lot more power than you think and not even know it. Even if you aren’t, say, a journalist or someone in politics, you can still affect change. If you’re a drag king or queen, consider organizing some benefits that support causes you care about, or doing some work pro bono to help make an impact. If you work in a restaurant or bar, ask about inclusive policies for customers and employees, and about benefits or events you could do at work.

Stay Informed While reading the news every day is exactly what causes your crippling anxiety in the first place, being informed can still make you more powerful. If you see a facebook post about an issue that seems upsetting, instead of getting lost in a sea of comments, read the original article, or an article on the same topic from a reliable source. That way, you know what’s happening and won’t just be flipping out about something that may not even be true.

Keep the Love Going It’s cliche and cheesy as hell, but if you force yourself to be positive you will feel happy and more in control, and you’ll be able to use your power. This isn’t The Secret, so you won’t get rich and famous from keeping a positive mindset. And obviously, chemical depression and anxiety are real, and bad days happen.

But it is a lot easier to think clearly and make decisions that will benefit you and your community when you are feeling good.

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THE SHOW'S ABOUT TO BEGIN

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THE Winners

2017’S POWER WINNERS: • •Mardi Moore • •Emma Shinn • •Kaiser Permanente • •Sally Taylor

••Leslie Herod ••Denver Public School •• Courtney “Crow” Carag

••Jeff Thormodsgaard ••The Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire

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Leslie

Herod OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

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COLORADO’S FIRST OPENLY QUEER AFRICAN AMERICAN REPRESENTATIVE FIGHTS FOR THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY AT THE CAPITOL

By Addison Herron-Wheeler

T

here is no question that today more than ever is the time to make our voices heard in the political arena.

The problem is, many times the politicians speaking on behalf of queer people are straight, white, and male. Leslie Herod, a woman of color who identifies as a lesbian, is the perfect example of why having out, proud, and unashamed politicians on our side is an incredibly powerful tool.

second chances, and highlighting the diversity that is the beauty in our state.”

“I will say that although I am the first openly gay African American elected, I may not be the first gay African American elected,” she told OUT FRONT regarding holding office in Colorado. “I think that distinction is important. There has been a very long period of history where being out was considered a threat instead of an asset in politics, and people hid who they were in order to be elected to office, be leaders, and now so many folks are coming out every day, and I’m glad to be a part of it.”

“One time, I was sitting in committee and hearing a bill that would allow trans people to change their gender markers, and I heard from a young girl who just wanted her birth certificate to say she was a girl. I remember having this power wrapped in me and in her, and we had this vibe where no one was going to touch her in this committee,” she said. “But then someone came up and testified afterwards, the Family Council of Something and Something, and she started talking about how the parents were wrong in allowing young people to make these decisions. Then I Googled, and said, ‘do you realize you represent a hate group right now; we are not going to hear from you, and I hope that my colleagues will not allow this.’”

Herod serves as House Representative for District 8 in Colorado. She tries her best to serve that district, and her state, in a way that allows for queer inclusion and acceptance, as well as equality and fair treatment for all those she represents. Although she is clearly left-leaning, she recognizes that everyone’s voice should be heard, and that politics requires a fair amount of compromising and listening.

“You gotta know what motivates people,” she explained.

“Regardless of what side of the aisle you are on, you have to understand people. As different as you might think you are from the rancher in rural colorado, we have the same vision, share the same goals. We are more similar than we are different; you just have to have the conversation. We are able to pull back the partisanship and speak to people as people. Hopefully I can reach down into the core values, which are treating someone with respect, giving people

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However, that doesn’t mean that she will bow to hate or ignorance. When it comes to standing up for her people, whether that means queer people, people of color, women, or just those who don’t normally get a voice, she does not back down.

Clearly, Herod fights the good fight at any cost, not just when it directly benefits people in her district or her political gains.

While she is strategic, she uses her powers for good rather than evil. She also hopes that her own success will inspire others and give them the strength to share their stories.

“I love my job, but you know when I see a young woman of color, a young girl of color, or an LGBTQ person come up to me and say they are so proud to see someone like them serving or one day they want to run for office, too, that just melts my heart,” she explained. “That’s why I do what I do.

I love when people share their stories and say how what I am doing impacts them. It takes courage.”

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The Imperial Court of

the Rocky Mountain Empire 2 2 \\ N O V E M B E R 1 , 2 0 1 7

GIVING BACK TO THE COLORADO QUEER COMMUNITY FOR 44 YEARS

By Ryan Howe

F

orty-four years ago, the Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire was founded. The International Imperial Court System, founded in 1965, spans Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Our beloved Rocky Mountain chapter is one of only 68 that works year-round to provide assistance to thousands of those going without. They are also the oldest non-profit queer organization in the state of Colorado.

In addition to donating hundreds of thousands of dollars to charities across the state for Freedom Service Dogs of America, Colorado AIDS Project, Parkinson’s charities, and so many others, the court’s volunteer members show the beauty in being queer.

This is something that Janelle St. Christopher, the court’s 34th Empress, remembers vividly about her first interaction with the court.

“I wasn’t even 18 yet, and my friends pulled me downtown for a good time,” Janelle said. “I was fascinated that these boys were dressed up like girls, and the girls were dressed up as boys. It was larger than life. I was drawn to the people, and I wanted to be a part of it.”

Ask any queen or king, and they’ll tell you that there is power in blurring the gender lines and taking the stage.

This is something Janelle felt as well. She loves the attention, especially with the recent surge in popularity of drag queens.

But there was something more powerful in being involved in the court that kept bringing her back.

spotted all over town, whether it’s putting on a show at one of the many LGBTQ bars, helping hand out food with Feeding Denver’s Hungry, pouring beer at local beer busts, or just bopping around the city. Again, it’s important to stress that the Rocky Mountain Region is one of the few court systems to work year-round to help those that need it the most.

“The court helps so many different people who aren’t eligible for federal aid,” Janelle said. “What we do is on-the-spot fundraising, so it helps those who need water or food or help within hospices; that was a big charity of the court.”

It’s that on-the-spot fundraising that keeps Janelle—and most of the court—coming back.

“When you’re driving down the street and you see a homeless child, and you know that the dollar that was given to me at one of our shows is somehow helping that homeless child—either giving them clothes on their back or food for that night, [I feel like I’ve made a difference].

I’m in the spotlight [during the show], but when I get to see the accomplishment of what dressing up does, the spotlight doesn’t matter at all.”

For every dollar that the Court donates to local charities, it’s also giving the queer people of the Rocky Mountain region a beacon of self-expression, community, outreach, beauty, and history.

“It’s the community involvement,” Janelle said. “You see the work that you’ve done and how it affects those within our own community and those outside of our community.”

“History is very important to me,” Janelle said. “The Court, which again launched in 1973, has that history and can show children that you can be who you are; you can be a part of history; you can help form history and make history better for those that are going to come after you.

The Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Region can be

That’s where all of our power lies.”

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Sally

Taylor OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

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PROVIDING PROTECTIONS TO THE QUEER COMMUNITY OF COLORADO

By Arianna Balderrama

S

ally Taylor is an insurance broker in Denver working with the Denver Gay and Lesbian Chamber. She specializes in personal insurance lines, which are under the home and auto umbrella. She works to take care of clients’ needs and make sure that they have the right coverage. Taylor says that “price is important, but coverage is more important.” Taylor makes it her goal to connect with her clients on a personal level in order to provide the best insurance possible.

How do you make connections with your clients? What is it that makes you different from other insurance agents?

I connect because I don’t judge. I don’t ask questions that would make anyone uncomfortable, straight or gay. I feel like everyone has the right to be treated fairly and not be judged.

I have a quite a few clients in the LGBTQ community and I have for years. I have good relationships with clients, and I feel like that has made me a much better insurance agent.

Creating an insurance plan is pretty personal. How do you go about creating a perfect plan for someone?

When you’re talking to an insurance agent, you have to imagine the worst case scenario, right? So you have to have an open conversation about things people don’t want to talk about. When you talk about a home, you are insuring it for the worst case scenario, so burn to the ground. And it has to be replaced... you have to have the correct coverage. With auto it’s more cut and dry.

Would you consider yourself an advocate for the LGBTQ community?

I’m an advocate and I became a member of the Denver Gay and Lesbian Chamber. I do feel that the community needs allies, and you need to be able to do business everywhere.

How do you advocate for people within the LGBTQ community through your job?

So my very first client that came to me from the Denver Gay and Lesbian Chamber was treated very poorly for being a part of a lesbian couple by another agency. She’s now been my client for 10 years.

Do you think there is a prejudice in your field against

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people in the LGBTQ community?

I do feel that there’s prejudice out there in the insurance industry. I recently got an email saying that someone had cited religion as to why they that they wouldn’t quote a client. I don’t understand that... it’s not where I’m from; it’s not where I’ve ever been, but I know it’s out there so I’d rather be their advocate for insurance.

How are you working to undo that bias? What is it that you’re doing to make a change within your field of work?

I don’t have staff anymore, and I want to take care of my clients. I was a captive agent for 16 years. I’m much happier as a broker because I can do much more for my clients—I want to be the one they talk to. My clients know I’m going to call them back, that I’m going to call back the same day they leave a message. It’s not all about money; it’s about taking care of people.

What does power mean to you? How have you witnessed power?

Well, I think power in numbers means a lot to me. I felt like marriage equality was a great achievement in the community because they had fought for it for years. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be in love with whomever and marry whomever. And that’s power. I saw the power of the LGBTQ community get that done.

What are some of your personal goals moving forward?

I like to see people succeed in what they do. I don’t think it’s always about money. I think it’s about self-esteem and accomplishments. The chamber really does promote small business. Even though we have sponsorships with large corporations, we focus on small businesses as well.

How do you approach your insurees? What kind of friendships do you create with your clients?

I like friendships were we can pick up where we left off. I’m not a friend where you have to keep in touch. I don’t talk to them in forever and when we do, we just pick up where we left off before.

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Mardi

MOORE Moore OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

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BOULDER COUNTY’S QUEER WONDER WOMAN

By Sophia Alessi ardi Moore is Boulder County’s Wonder Woman.

For Moore, Wonder Woman really has it all. She’s brave and tenacious in the face of adversity, and her passion drives her to pursue justice for all.

M

vibrant rainbow flags can know that they are in a community that welcomes all people. She hopes this kind of visibility encourages a passersby to be their truest selves and know that they are welcomed and loved.

“It’s all about Wonder Woman for me,” Mardi said when asked about which superhero she would take the identity of. “There are so many challenges that have taken us many lifetimes to get as far as we have gotten. With her powers, you could accomplish that in a day. ”

But Moore doesn’t stop at the simple flying of a flag. She continually works with the Boulder and St. Vrain Valley School Districts to promote anti-bullying groups, inclusive dress codes, and education programs for both youth and adults about inclusivity and self-expression.

Mardi would use her superpowers to lift up kids and change systems—and she would do it today.

Just recently, Moore received notice that the Board of Directors for the St. Vrain Valley School district unanimously voted in favor of policies that Moore herself helped pioneer and promote designed to protect queer youth and allies and to advocate for a more embracing environment in schools.

“If I had that power, I would be glad to wear that cape.”

Moore is the Executive Director of Out Boulder County, a nonprofit organization that provides education and advocacy, and a multitude of programs for Boulder County’s queer community. According to Moore, a lot of change emanates from Boulder, and it is crucial to be at the forefront of that change.

At Out Boulder, Moore oversees everything from the volunteer coordination to working intersectionally with other prominent non-profit organizations in Boulder to organizing and leading Boulder Pride. Her goal? To bring everyone to the table and to make sure every voice is heard.

And she does just that.

Today, Moore is working with the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition, Boulder and St. Vrain Valley school districts, and businesses between Boulder and Longmont. But beyond her day-to-day work, Moore strives to advocate for the LGBTQ community in every aspect possible.

Being a Colorado native, Moore knows the ins and outs of the Boulder and Longmont communities. Creating visibility within these communities is critical to helping inclusion. This mission is exemplified in the opening of the Pride House in central Boulder. Dating back to 1994, the annual Boulder Pride became such a beloved event that Out Boulder decided to formally open a center in Boulder in 2002, calling it the Pride House. With an official location, the Pride House serves as a beacon of hope and progress for the LGBTQ community and its allies. Not long after, Longmont opened a center on Main Street.

Moore explained that these centers are helping create visibility and recognition for the LGBTQ community. For her, this means that every child that passes by and sees the

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Her reason and motivation? Moore says it has a lot to do with power. But similarly to everything else Moore does, she gives whatever she’s got right back to the community. Power, from her perspective, is something to be used with great caution.

“I’m all for power, I have some power in my position, but as soon as I get a hold of it, I hand it to somebody else,” she said. “Power is meant to be shared. Power is not for one person to hold.”

Moore does just that. Through her position at Out Boulder County, Moore is invited to be a part of many county-wide meetings, political and social events, and district board discussions. At each of these, there is one thing on Moore’s mind: “How can I invite the queer community into this? And how can I give the power back to them?”

Moore feels most empowered when she is helping benefit others. Her vision has always been achieving equality by breaking down systems of power. Every day, Moore works to change the hearts and minds of people in order to increase support for the LGBTQ community. Moore knows there is a strength in numbers, and with the vision of creating allies in every corner of Boulder County, she puts her power to work by placing it in the hands of those she thinks can better the community.

Mardi Moore is nothing short of Wonder Woman. She is driven, persistent, compassionate, and—above all else—she is brave. Moore says there is a lot of work to still be done, but she’s willing to put in the effort.

“You change hearts one person at a time, and I think you change minds the same way.”

Equal Rides Congratulations to the 2017 honorees for your endless dedication and commitment to the communities we serve.

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TRANSGENDER MILITARY VETERAN LEADS NEW FIGHTS FOR COLORADO’S QUEER COMMUNITY

By Addison Herron-Wheeler

T

rans military veteran, advocate and ally, defense attorney, and creator of the Name Change Project: any one of those traits would have been enough to grant Emma Shinn mention as a Power Winner. But for Shinn, who tirelessly fights for her community, these things are all a necessary part of creating the change that she wants to see.

“I typically think LGBTQ folks are discriminated against and face more pressures in the legal community because they are minorities, so to be able to be a voice for them and guide them through the process of name change is really valuable, both to me and to my clients,” she told OUT FRONT. Originally enlisted as a Marine, Shinn was a subject of highlighted in an OUT FRONT article this summer, right after Trump first made his announcement about not allowing trans individuals to serve in the military. She is an outspoken advocate for trans military rights and proud to have served her country, despite how trans veterans are currently being treated.

“Trans people have been serving since the dawn of time,” she stated during that interview, when asked about her military service record and her views on inclusion. “It’s just whether we’re serving openly or not.”

to. Experiencing education with trans people is going to reduce that, just like it did with the LG and the B part of our acronym.”

However, she realizes that even those who are comfortable with their identities don’t always seek the help they need.

Whether it is fear of changing a name or finding out how to do so, or fear of fighting a lawsuit and facing prejudice, Shinn tries to help people realize that there are safe places to turn for those who need help.

“Often, people who are LGBTQ don’t want to seek help because they are worried they are going to be judged, so they feel more comfortable with me because I am queer and trans and I am not going to judge them,” she explained. “After last year’s election, it was very important to help people who were feeling uncertain about what was to come, so myself and a group of others got together to form the Colorado Name Change Project; that right there is powerful to me.”

Shinn recognizes that in order to be happy and productive members of society, trans people need to be able to live as themselves.

Shinn feels that because she is successful as an out, trans woman in law and in life, she can use her own positive example to try to convince others to live their truths as well. She thinks that the best way to do so is to empower queer people by sharing her own story, and that she can help fight prejudice by being out and successful.

“I think the earlier people can transition, the better their lives will be,” she said. “A lot of my earlier struggles could have been avoided if I felt supported in my community to be who I really am. Obviously, there are some people where it is a phase, especially early on in their lives, so being able to take the right steps, talk to mental health providers, being cognizant of exactly how that person is presenting, is really important. Is it persistent, insistent, and consistent? If those things are there, most likely, it is not a phase.”

“I help by being visible,” she explained. “If people can see me, see I am a professional woman, the kind of person I am, they will see that all those preconceived notions and prejudices aren’t there. We are just like everyone else; we are people, at the root of things, that’s what it boils down

Shinn keeps herself incredibly busy, working as a lawyer and for her charity, and she will continue to fight the good fight for equality. To learn more about her name change work and how to update gender markers and names, visit NameChangeProject.org.

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Emma

Shinn SHINN OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

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Courtney “Crow”

Carag OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

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HEALING DENVER’S MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES

By Addison Herron-Wheeler

H

ealth and healing are both major sources of power, and major problems in the queer community. For many LGBTQ folks, these things can also be cause for frustration and fear. Doctor Courtney “Crow” Carag, a specialist in acupuncture, is committed to making sure that the community is served medically, even if they don’t have the resources to pay for medical services.

Carag is co-owner of Community Care Collective, a local group of medical professionals who are committed to providing care at a reasonable price, and getting resources to those who need them. Her group specifically seeks to help marginalized individuals, including people of color, low-income people, and members of the LGBTQ community.

“Something unique about our collective is that to share our space there are a couple of things you have to agree on,” she explained. “Providers have to be queer- and trans-competent in their care, which unfortunately is quite rare in a lot of instances, or not common enough. One of our other requirements is that you volunteer a few hours a month; that ensures that we can provide access to people who otherwise couldn’t afford it or wouldn’t come in.”

resources that are gravely needed, Carag hopes to empower industry insiders to provide better care to LGBTQ individuals.

“My practice definitely focuses on serving any kind of margianizlied communities, especially the LGBTQ community,” she said. “I focus a lot on health care, especially in the gay and trans communities, because that’s where I’ve seen the most appalling lack of access, refusal of care, and absolutely incompetent care. I see a lot of negativity, lack of understanding, outright hate, so I do what I can in that realm. I also see that there’s a much larger gray area, or what I consider a gray area, where things can go horribly wrong, but it is in fact because of ignorance; it is lack of training, people who don’t know what they are talking about in one realm. We want to educate more and talk to more people and definitely provide care, but also educate different people in the community, including providers, just to be more competent in their care so they have more to offer.”

When it comes to offering help to those who struggle with getting care or have had a bad experience, she tries to be as patient and understanding as possible.

As a medical practitioner and ally, Carag finds a balance between making a living and giving back the best way she knows how. Although Community Care Collective is an affordable option rather than a free one, she does her best to ensure that prices are reasonable for clients. She offers group session acupuncture, a more affordable option where those receiving treatment stay clothed and sit together in recliners while they are healed. Pricing is as low as $25-50 a session for some of the options.

“One of the key pieces is creating safe space, so acknowledging their experience and how negative and wrong it was, and also asking what they need,” she explained. “A lot of times it’s ‘I didn’t get this done because this person didn’t help me.’

Essentially, this is ‘how can I learn to be better?’ I don’t have all the answers and I haven’t walked anyone else’s path, but I like to try to find out what else could be done and what they need, and I will try to provide, whether it is a referral or offering care myself.”

Carag also realizes that even those who have the funds to afford the care they need might be seeking help from her because they have been mistreated by the health care professionals they put their trust in. This is often because of hate and bigotry, but it can also be caused by a lack of understanding around the needs of queer people. In addition to offering up the

Although many are worried about the current political climate and its effect on health care, Carag is focused on making the best of things and making her services as affordable as possible.

Because of this dedication to the health and wellbeing of our community, Carag is a 2017 Power Winner and celebrated community advocate.

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Advancing equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer Coloradans and our families.

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Kaiser

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PROVIDING HIGH-QUALITY AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION

By Ryan Howe

B

obby King believes the most beautiful part about being on this planet is that every person is different.

our partners, our brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews.

They are our family.”

The director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Kaiser Permanente Colorado Region, King knows that not everyone starts out with the same advantages.

He knows that people are not equal. He also recognizes that humans are complex, and when you’re providing a service—like health care—to the general population, you better get to know whom you’re serving and what they need.

But having an accepting outlook alone isn’t enough to earn a company a spot at the top of this nation’s diversity standard.

It takes a lot more than that.

“It’s like a botanical garden where all the flowers are so different,” he said. “They each need a certain amount of rain, sunshine, nurturing, and care. People are just the same. We all need different things; that’s the equity part. I mean, a rose needs a different amount of nurturing than a tulip or an iris.

“As we recognize that fact, as human beings, we can care and nurture for one another in that unique way.”

Kaiser Permanente is one of the nation’s largest not-forprofit health care providers plans, serving 11.8 million members across the nation. It was also ranked second on DiversityInc’s 2017 Top 50 Companies for Diversity list, an annual report that recognizes the nation’s inclusive and diverse businesses.

Kaiser Permanente is committed to advancing diversity at every level of the organization. More than 60 percent of the organization’s total workforce are members of racial, ethnic, and cultural minorities, and more than 73 percent are women. They are proud sponsors of pride events across the nation, including Denver’s PrideFest every Father’s Day weekend.

But, beyond that, Kaiser is on the forefront of making sure that every single patient, regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity, is treated with respect.

They are one of the few major health care companies to enforce that their employees and doctors use the correct gender pronouns when helping transgender and gender nonconforming patients. They ensure that all medical records are properly kept so no one feels unsafe or out of place as they navigate doctors visits.

Kaiser Permanente, recognizing that no one should change who they are, meets its patients on their turf.

Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of their members and the communities they serve, including the LGBTQ community.

“It all comes down to respect. When we say that we ‘meet our people where they are,’ it’s not a physical location, it’s a cultural context for us,” King said. “The bottom line is that they want to be respected for who they are. Members are members. Family is family. Respect is respect.

“At Kaiser Permanente, we really pride ourselves on providing affordable health care for all American citizens regardless of race, ethnicity, identity, or sexual orientation,” King said. “That’s just how we operate. So in terms of the LGBTQ community, they are our members, our employees,

“We have to be mindful that when people go to the doctor, it puts them in a vulnerable place. That’s why I say that we have to be culturally competent and culturally literate in the dialogue when providing medical, prevention, or wellness services to our members.”

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Schools OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

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EMPOWERING LGBTQ STUDENTS WITH LOVE, CURRICULUM, & ACCEPTANCE

By Ryan Howe

F

or the last eight years, Tom Boasberg has overseen Denver’s Public Schools as their superintendent. It’s the longest job he’s ever held, and there’s good reason for it—Boasberg is committed to every single student that walks through the front doors any of his schools.

our schools. We want our curriculum to match the diversity of our students. For example, we make sure to educate our students on LGBTQ history, which makes them understand that community, and treat their peers with more respect and understanding.”

Over the past eight years, the district has posted record enrollment increases, with a higher rate of enrollment growth than any other major urban school district in the country, and increased its four-year graduation rate by more than 25 percentage points. DPS has gone from being the district with the lowest rate of student academic growth among major Colorado districts to the district with the highest rate of academic achievement growth. The district has also more than tripled the number of its students taking and receiving college credit for Advanced Placement courses. And, it has cut its dropout rate by more than 60 percent.

Although DPS is filled with progressive curriculum, staff, students, and clubs, bullying is still an issue.

“It’s about commitment to every student, and recognizing that every student has different needs to reach their goals,” Boasberg said. “A huge part of helping these students succeed is recognizing how diverse the student body is and giving them outlets to feel supported and recognized. That’s how you make them feel powerful.”

One of those outlets is the popular Gay-Straight Alliance, student-initiated and student-run clubs for LGBTQ students and their allies. These clubs provide a safe space for these students to meet, provide support, and educate their peers to combat bullying and harassment and end homophobia and transphobia in schools.

According to the 2009 National Climate Survey conducted by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), 87 percent of Colorado’s LGBTQ students were verbally harassed in school because of their sexual orientation. Seventy-three percent were harassed based on their gender identity or expression— and nine out of 10 LGBTQ students felt deliberately excluded by their peers.

But research also shows that students in schools with GSAs are less likely to feel unsafe in their schools than those without such a support group. The positive and affirming environment of GSAs allows students to feel safe and respected in their schools.

“Bullying is more of an issue in middle school than it is high school,” Boasberg said. “It comes with maturity and knowledge.

We push for not only our staff but our students to report these things. But, we don’t just punish the students—although that is part of it. We know that punishment doesn’t change people’s minds, but getting to know one another does. We try to mend these issues by sitting these students down and having them share their stories with one another.”

Colorado’s Gay-Straight Alliance Network has grown exponentially in the last five years. Denver, one of Colorado’s most liberal cities, has roughly 90 public schools that house students grades six through 12. These students, more than ever, are empowered to be authentically themselves. In order to do that, they need support.

DPS does a number of things to make out LGBTQ youth feel included and supported. Alongside the GSA, the school system has implemented queer literature classes, enforced policies that make sure transgender and gender-nonconforming students are addressed with appropriate pronouns and can use facilities that match their gender identity, and empowered students to live outside of the closet.

“Our GSA groups are a huge hit, not only with our LGBTQ students, but with our straight students who want to show up and support their classmates,” Boasberg said. “I think a huge part of that support comes from the culture that we create in

“We make sure that we enforce a culture of love and respect.

That’s what gives these kids power, and when they feel powerful they can take that into their adult lives and make some necessary changes to the world we live in.”

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PROVIDING STRATEGY AND ADVICE TO THE QUEER POLITICAL COMMUNITY

By Addison Herron-Wheeler

W

e see it everywhere, from advertising and marketing to conversations and compromise. The power of persuasion is one that is not to be underestimated.

That’s why it is so important to have persuasive people who stand up for LGBTQ rights on our side in politics. Jeff Thormodsgaard, lobbyist, campaign strategist, and political advisor, knows what it takes to get people to listen in politics.

One of this year’s Power Winners, Thormodsgaard is being recognized for his contributions to queer political reform and his dedication to fighting the good fight.

kind of got my wings and my voice.

What made you decide to get involved with politics and campaigns? Why did you decide to study politics?

Well I think that at this point in time there is more reason than ever. We have our own political strifes and struggles going on and I think one of the biggest problems is that there could be a reversal of all these things we have been working on. I think we need to do a really good job of preserving what we have done. I think it’s more important for people to grasp that we need to make sure we are organized, that we have a voice, that we are truly preserving our community and doing our job. We have all these things that came to fruition, and now legal marriage. I’m very concerned with what it would mean if we lose these things.

I’ve been in politics since I was a little kid; I ran for office when I was a little guy. It was kind of my trajectory and I got a degree in political science and had no idea what that meant and moved to Alaska. I was there for a few years, figured out what I wanted to do, came back to become a lobbyist, and immediately met Pat Steadman, and he sort of shepherded me into the whole political consulting lobbying world. I worked on the Domestic Partner Campaign in 2006.

I decided to study politics because I love people and I want to see all people have a voice, and I don’t think all people understand government or understand how things work, and things happen without people being involved, without someone who cares, which isn’t good.

Who are some of your biggest inspirations?

One of my largest inspirations in the LGBTQ community would definitely be one of my dearest friends, Pat Steadman; he by far and away has been one of my biggest mentors, and he taught me a lot about what it is to be a leader. I think leading and power are kind of synonymous, and that I think he really exhibits more than most in the world, so I have a lot of respect for him.

When did you first feel powerful as an LGBTQ person or in politics, and why was this important to you?

Honestly it was when I got my job working on the Domestic Partner Campaign; I lead the Boulder office as the field director, helped the campaign set up all of the field offices, got the whole field structure in place. At that point in time I realized how important what we were doing was, and it was very empowering, knowing we were helping the people in our community. The connections I made through that were phenomenal, both as an LGBTQ ally and also as a member. I 4 6 \\ N O V E M B E R 1 , 2 0 1 7

What does power mean to you?

I think power is knowing how to quietly by example do what’s right, and have people know that what you are doing is right and following that example. I don’t believe that power is exerting influence; I believe it is inspiring influence in people who otherwise don’t feel powerful.

Why is it important to be an advocate for the queer community at this point in time?

What do you think we can do to keep our power in this political climate?

Keep your knowledge base, keep your head in the game, and keep knowing that we are not off the hook; nobody is off the hook. We all may have thought that we were, because under the Obama administration we kind of flourished, and were able to make so many movements of progress over the years.

Now we need to keep acting on all those years of progress.

What do you think our community needs the most right now?

I think this goes back to what I talked about earlier, remaining vigilant. We can’t ever stop and think that the LGBTQ population is all of a sudden going to be out of harm’s way, so to speak. But I think the other thing our community needs is to recognize that we need to love all our community, and in a time when all these things have kind of become divisive all over again, I think the LGBTQ community should be leading by example, and I don’t know if we are always doing the best job of that.

We need to be there for our LGBTQ people of color, for all our people. The last thing we need is not to be in lockstep and seeing the world through the same lense. I think that’s really important for our community to be reminded of.

OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

// 4 7

A (GODLESS) PRAYER FOR AMERICA

By Rick Kitzman

4 8 \\ N O V E M B E R 1 , 2 0 1 7

T

he tragedy in Las Vegas last month put yet another tally on America’s rich list of massacres inspiring more unspeakable fear, pain, sorrow, anger, and grief. We bow our heads—again—and pray.

After the Las Vegas massacre and the scores sadly like it, without exception, love took over, soaring to new heights in greater abundance. The care, the concern, volunteerism, selfsacrifice, and outpouring of support from strangers worldwide overwhelms these senseless crimes. For a few days, we are one. It’s odd that nothing unites America like a massacre.

And then division unravels the good. We scream Howard Beale’s rallying cry from Network—“I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take this any more!”—until everyone’s hoarse, weary, and numb because every day brings a new reason to scream. Myself included.

So I pray.

If the words prayer or God cause you to stop reading, I use Affirmative Prayer, developed by New Thought ministers in the early 1900s. It’s the arrogance of organized religion to believe its name is the only right one. So, I substitute God with mystical words.

I’ve written my godless prayer in the first person, not from an egotistical point of view, but because all I can control is my mind. Hopefully, you’ll join me.

A Prayer for America As I sit here in the silence, I simply breathe in and out, deeply and often, letting the noise of the world fade away. The years, the months, the days, the last hours are nothing but memory.

I cannot know the future. All I know lives in this one second and everyone that came before.

I breathe the energy that animates me and energizes the entire universe. I know this vital presence is all-knowing, all-powerful, and everywhere. It is that power of life, of love, of the laws that govern the universe. It simply is, always was, and always will be. It is the creator, the great changeless, yet always changing, for It is always creating.

Since this divine presence is everywhere, It must inhabit my consciousness, which impels me to live. And if this is true, then the divine presence is in all of humanity. Everyone wears the face of divinity, everyone is holy, and we are united to this presence. Through It, we are united to each other. Nothing separates me from every woman and man; indeed, nothing separates me from the entire universe. I am one with a grain of sand, with a galaxy of stars.

And in this state of mind, I realize the oneness of life, that when I picture the world I see an energy of pure love.

I pray for the world. I pray for America, my country ‘tis of thee. I pray for all its citizens. I know there is great grief,

great pain. I know there is division and strife and fear. When one suffers, I suffer, humanity suffers. Nothing separates me from another. Nothing separates each from the other. And in this moment I know that healing, whatever form that takes, occurs. The hungry are fed. The thirsty are given drink. The unemployed are employed. The angry are soothed. Those who suffer loss and heartache are given comfort. For when one heals, we all heal. When one triumphs, we all triumph. As I open my heart, I connect to the Heart of Spirit, to the heart of Mother Earth, to the heart of everyone, everywhere, and each connects to me.

This happens now.

I pray America heals. I pray the world heals. Love and joy are everyone’s birthright. Let us find the courage to embrace our individual birthright and support each other to find theirs.

I pray for the world’s leaders. I pray for America’s leaders. I surround them all with the light and wisdom of the one mind, that they may be moved to protect the people and resources they govern, for the benefit and good of all.

These thoughts, these pictures, appear in my mind, and as unified with the one mind have no recourse but to become reality. From my mind to the one mind, the power of love is unconquerable. These pictures from my intellect drop into my heart. My heart grows and united with all hearts, peace and understanding manifest easily and effortlessly through our shared humanity and shared compassion. Not in my time, but in perfect divine time, and perfect divine manifestation always occurs.

With fearless feeling, with the conviction of my word, with the strength of my love, united with the divine, I declare nothing can prevent a perfect demonstration. Any doubt, negativity, residue, fear, or worry, I consciously and lovingly replace with light and life and love and laughter and learning. For that is the Truth—with a capital T. For the blessing of my life, I am so thankful. I bless all animals and oceans and plant life, all religions, all people everywhere.

I am thankful for this glorious city and state and country and magnificent world I live in, for the joy of its wonders and miracles, from the simplicity of a butterfly to the majesty of the Grand Canyon. I am grateful to be a loving presence. I trust that the divine guides me. I give this to the world I am responsible for, and am honored.

I release my words into the creative cosmos. I let them go into the power of the universe. I accept the gifts. I know spirit paves my way to receive, for the world to receive Its blessings.

I pray for our America. I pray for our world. I know spirit makes Itself known in ever greater joy, for the potential of peace and love and harmony is present here and now. I pray the peace that passes all understanding is indeed understood by all, is within all, given to all, each to the other.

OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

// 4 9

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BEAR TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The Matthew Shepard Foundation’s Bear to Make a Difference Gala was held at the Westin Hotel in downtown Denver on October 14. Former Army Secretary Eric Fanning was presented with the Making a Difference award, One Colorado Executive Director Daniel Ramos was presented with the Dennis Dougherty Award for Community Leadership, and Alyssa Sileo and Jamie Wilson were presented with the Spirit of Matthew Award. Congratulations!

Photos by Charles Broshous

OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

// 5 3

Dueling With Depression:

Fragments Photo and Column by Mike Yost

5 4 \\ N O V E M B E R 1 , 2 0 1 7

A

few issues ago, I drafted an article about redefining what it means to be whole, touching on how we often create gaps between who we are and who we think we need to be. But additional ink needs to be spilled on this whole wholeness idea.

After all, just how does one redefine what it means to be whole? Does wholeness as a state of being actually exist, or is the idea itself an illusion? Isn’t this just another way of escaping an unforgiving, mechanical universe rooted in insignificance?

From the day I was born, people have been eager to tell me how to be complete person. As a teenager, I was taught that worshiping God, attending a Baptist church, and denying my homosexuality was the path to true peace both in this life and the next.

During basic training, the Air Force beat into my brain that integrity, excellence in all we do, and service before self were the three core values that cultivated the model airman.

In college, I read the works of philosophers who wrote and wrote and wrote on what it means to be human, a self that some argued was locked away in the skull watching everything inside the theater of the mind. Still others argued that any attempt to define wholeness was an exercise in futility.

The Roman philosopher Seneca replied to a friend who asked how to be free of “mental disturbances.” He claimed that we all seek something “very close to the state of being a god: to be unshaken. This constant state of mental composure the Greeks call euthymia... I call it tranquility.”

Seneca’s definition comes very close to how I’ve seen nirvana defined. He talks about a mind that “may take pleasure in regarding its state and

have no interruption mar this joy, but remain in a peaceful condition, at no time raising itself up or casting itself down: this will be tranquility.”

Notice a pattern here? Whether it’s true peace or euthymia or nirvana, everyone is telling me what it is to be whole without asking me what I think it is to be whole. Hell, I don’t even ask myself!

Because I wonder: Can one be tranquil with not being tranquil? And what do you do when you actually achieve this magic wholeness?

Isn’t the idea of being perpetually tranquil a horrifying thought?

I might never discover what wholeness is, but I’m finding out what it isn’t by including myself in the dialogue. And for me, it wasn’t becoming a Baptist, closeted youth pastor or a career airman, or embracing the idea that I can somehow be eternally unshaken.

Maybe wholeness involves giving ourselves permission to be broken at times, depressed and weeping alone in our rooms at the frequent horror and isolation of being human. To dismiss the idea that to be whole is to live continuously without depression.

I try not to hinge my tranquility on cultivating a solid definition of what it means to be tranquil.

I work to be okay with not being okay, yet still carve out time to enjoy lunch with a friend, dinner with a lover, or just a night in my own company.

I see wholeness as trusting ourselves in the process of seeking, and not investing solely in some distant destination painted and framed by the words of another (even my own words).

What is it to be whole? I have no f*cking clue... not yet anyway. I only have fragments of answers, and maybe that’s enough.

OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

// 5 5

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HEINZESIGHT:

THE LAND OF THE CYBER BULLIES

By Brent Heinze

M

ost of us walk around with powerful devices that can directly keep us plugged into our society’s matrix.

We live in a technology-rich culture where we can share an incredible amount of information on a variety of topics. We also have the ability to view a diverse selection of people’s ideas and push our perspectives out to the masses.

This ranges from cute commentaries on pop culture to political viewpoints about how the world should function. Cyberspace is full of people’s perspectives, thoughts, and opinions. Of course, some of them appear more rational and thoughtful than others,

but regardless, almost everyone has the ability to share them.

During exchanges happening online, we can express our own feelings and comment on what other people post. Usually we offer supportive feedback or send a cute little emoji, but there are times when something goes wrong. Comments and conversations can spiral quickly out of control, pulling in many people to offer aggression or antagonism about a topic.

These posts can move quickly from a simple expression of a personal perspective to an abusive arena that can cause pain, suffering, and lots of drama.

OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

// 5 7

Most of us would define “cyber bullying” as making fun of someone vulnerable, like a queer person or someone with unusual tastes and interests. But I think this idea needs to be expanded and scrutinized. It happens more often then we may want to admit, especially in environments like Facebook.

Although these spaces are often considered a positive place for people to stay in contact and share experiences, there are individuals who utilize this platform to criticize, persecute, judge, and call out individuals who are in opposition perceived to have done something wrong or are in opposition to their own beliefs.

Someone’s misstep can be simply posting an image, making a comment, or using certain words. And this doesn’t always have to be regarding a serious political topic. We do it with Hollywood actors, restaurants, and businesses that don’t align with our belief system or do something that we consider unacceptable or unethical. It often also happens to individuals.

This doesn’t have to be the case. Instead of publicly calling someone out, a private conversation, either face-to-face or electronically, is a good alternative. If the primary goal is to challenge someone’s ideas, a direct confrontation can be utilized instead of creating a spectacle for others to cheer about. These exchanges bring up images of gladiators to the death or the Salem witch trials, where individuals were burned at the stake in the public square. Most of us would like to think that our society has moved beyond these types of violence, but they may have just been reborn into a new form.

Our society is built on a foundation where we interact with each other and have a generally shared sense of ethics. For the most part, we function as a single group with many sub-populations. One problem that can exist within any cluster of people is a mob mentality. Quickly, factions can form around issues and a type of war can be waged.

It also doesn’t take long for internet accusations to get personal. In a world of political conservatives and hateful groups, I understand the importance of calling out injustices, but “taking somebody down” for a simple post is concerning.

Of course, directly hateful or discriminatory ideas should be confronted, but there can be a difference between having different perspectives and expressing racist or phobic comments directed at particular groups of people. We have all seen the worst of this type of behavior as shown in the current political environment.

Although individuals may fear being crucified for something they write or believe, anyone that supports those who are being confronted or goes against the attacker is also a potential target for negativity and aggression.

This may cause some to not get involved or point out that the aggressive behavior is not fair, because they’re scared about being targeted. Many times, it is safer to align with those who are hostile out of concern of being attacked themselves. Creating an environment that uses intimidation and coercion to control someone’s actions is one of the primary characteristics of an bully.

Many times, this public display of confrontation is more about the personal issues and public image of the person making the accusations. These individuals may have gone through challenging situations that hurt them emotionally or caused turmoil in their lives. They may have felt powerless or kicked around.

As a culture we need to be careful to challenge those who attack others, but also watch our own behaviors so we do not feed into the same negativity. Most of us have experienced judgement at one time or another, and we can agree that it feels terrible when we are attacked by others.

It’s amazing how we acknowledge our own imperfections, but expect a different standard from others.

Those people that fuel the fire by posting messages of support not only continue the intensity of the attack, but also reinforce the idea that it’s acceptable for people to jump into fights.

Of course, everyone is entitled to an opinion, but the decision to post it publicly is something that we need to look at closely. Issues can be confronted without bringing more drama or hate into the situation. Mistakes can be seen as learning opportunities.

Usually, our society does not tolerate a huge group of people getting in an individual’s face physically and yelling obscenities at them on a public street. Somehow, we have created an environment where that kind of action is it considered common and acceptable.

The ability to share ideas is something that should be held in a sacred space and not used just because somebody makes you angry. Abusing this gift is not only unkind, but it wastes time and energy that could be spent on other fruitful endeavors to the betterment of us all.

5 8 \\ N O V E M B E R 1 , 2 0 1 7

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OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

// 5 9

CONVICTED

Czarina 44 LaLa Shearz, of the Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire, hosted “Convicted “at Gladys: The Nosey Neighbor on October 15. Emperor 44 John Crenshaw, Empress 34 Janelle St. Christopher, MaveRick Smith, Jessica L’Whor, Khrys’ta Aal, and Mykul Jay Valentine also performed. The show helped raise funds for Cops Fighting Cancer.

Photos by Charles Broshous

6 0 \\ N O V E M B E R 1 , 2 0 1 7

OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

// 6 1

OUTBACK CLASSIFIEDS ENVISIONED

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OUTFRONTMAGAZINE.COM

// 6 3

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