675 Pride Three LGBTQ+ Icons

SPECIAL PRIDE ISSUE - LGBTQ+ Icons No. 675 • June 24, 2021 outwordmagazine.com

page 16

Protect Ourselves & Our Communities page 4

Cities are Reopening! page 15

Documentaries with Pride page 23

Sac PRIDE Month Events page 26

Top 50 LGBTQ+ Anthems page 29

Gaycation Magazine Launches New Travel Show page 30

To the Soldiers and Airmen of the National Guard

C Kelly J Shultz Financial Advisor 9290 W Stockton Blvd Ste 109 Elk Grove, CA 95758-8089 916-896-0428

edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Submitted By Daniel R. Hokanson General, U.S. Army Chief, National Guard Bureau

ombat is the ultimate team sport; it takes a collection of skills, talents, and strengths. But most of all, it takes people— extraordinary people of courage and character who are dedicated to the Constitution, and willing to make sacrifices in the service of our Nation. This Pride Month, we honor the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LGBTQI+) Soldiers and Airmen who strengthen our National Guard team.

It’s been ten years since Congress repealed the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, which barred Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual service members from openly serving in the Armed Forces. Its repeal signified three things that endure today: First, dishonesty has no place in our military culture. Second, we honor the diversity of our workforce and the power that diversity provides. Third—and most important—who someone is and whom they love has no bearing on their ability to serve our Nation.

It doesn’t matter if we’re flying sorties in the Middle East, or filling sandbags in the Midwest—our success depends on our strength as a team and our ability to work together.

Our success depends on our people. We stand in solidarity with our LGBTQI+ service members, and commit to an organization built on inclusion and dignity for all. It’s what it means to serve with pride.

Sincerely, Daniel R. Hokanson, General, U.S. Army Chief, National Guard Bureau Tony L. Whitehead Senior Enlisted Advisor National Guard Bureau

‘Captain America’ Goes Gay for Pride Month

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By Chris Narloch

arvel recently announced the first gay character to take on the Captain America mantle with the introduction of Aaron Fischer, a progressive new queer character who is also an unhoused teen.

“The United States of Captain America #1” is written by Christopher Cantwell and Joshua Trujillo, with art by Dale Eaglesham and Jan Bazaldua.

It follows Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson as they take a road trip across America to find a thief who stole Captain America’s shield.

What they find instead is the Captains, everyday people who have been inspired by Captain America to become heroes in their own communities. Aaron Fischer, the Captain America of the Railways, is one of those heroes.

The groundbreaking addition to the Marvel universe will be available everywhere comic books are sold this June 30, in honor of Pride Month.

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Outword Staff PUBLISHER Fred Palmer A RT DIRECTOR/ PRODUCTION Kristy Harris Ron Tackitt GRA PHIC DESIGN Kristy Harris Ron Tackitt EDITOR editor@outwordmagazine.com A RTS EDITOR Chris Narloch SA LES Fred Palmer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chris Allan Christopher J. Beale Matthew Burlingame Faith Colburn Kristy Harris Diana Kienle Chris Narloch Lauren Pulido Ron Tackitt PHOTOGRA PHY Charles Peer Ron Tackitt ON THE COVER International LGBTQ+ Icons DISTRIBUTION Kaye Crawford Michael Crawford

A DVERTISING SA LES Sacramento and Northern California (916) 329-9280 Fred Palmer

Outword Magazine Inc.

Let’s Protect Ourselves and Our Communities this Summer

By Amanda McAllister-Wallner, Director of the California LBGTQ Health & Human Services Network

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ride Month and summer plans are looking a bit different this year, as Californians move out of the throes of the pandemic and return to a “new normal.”

A year ago, the world was shocked by the horrific power of the COVID-19 virus.

Californians were adjusting to new mask mandates, and physical distancing guidelines kept us apart from each other. Without access to vaccines, the future looked uncertain.

Since then, we’ve made tremendous progress against COVID-19. With nearly 70 percent of our state fully vaccinated and transmission rates declining, California’s economy has reopened—which means no more physical distancing, no more capacity limits on businesses, and relaxed mask rules for vaccinated people.

But let’s not lose sight of the efforts that have gotten us to this much brighter period.

After focusing on safety behaviors for the past 15 months, our lives are beginning to feel more normal. Finally—we’re together again, honoring and celebrating our community.

As past lessons have taught us, this is no time to relax and squander what we have gained through months of hard work, including getting vaccinated and wearing masks.

We must not overlook the risks that remain for those who are vulnerable to the virus—including children, the unvaccinated, those who are older and those with preexisting health conditions.

The LGBTQ community is at a higher risk for COVID-19 due to higher rates of tobacco use and chronic health conditions such as HIV, cancer and diabetes, according to the California LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network. The Network has found that LGBTQ people are more likely to delay needed medical care due to past experiences of discrimination, unwelcoming environments or barriers such as costs or lack of affirming providers.

The LGBTQ community has also been slow to get vaccinated, even though COVID19 vaccines are proven to be safe and effective in protecting people from becoming seriously ill from the disease. Vaccines are

Amanda McAllisterWallner (She/Her) is the Director of California LBGTQ Health & Human Services Network

free and available at clinics, pharmacies and health care centers. If you need more information about COVID-19 or are looking for a vaccine site, check out www.covid19.ca. gov or www.myturn.ca.gov.

I’m proud to say I have received both vaccines and am celebrating full immunity!

It’s a relief knowing that I’m protecting my family, community and myself as well.

Thankfully, after a year without gathering with those who are important to me, being vaccinated means my calendar is filling up with dozens of events from backyard barbeques to family beach days and music in the park. It’s a welcome change to be able to visit without a mask – another benefit of being vaccinated.

At the end of the day, we are – and have always been – in this together.

Whether it’s Pride Month, your Granny’s 93rd birthday, or any other moment of

celebration this summer, consider the importance of your actions.

Celebrating doesn’t mean we relinquish our personal responsibility to protect ourselves and our communities. Do the right thing. Get vaccinated, and wear a mask when it can protect you and those around you, such as in a crowd or on public transportation.

Protecting ourselves and our community is a gesture of love, kindness and respect.

It’s a lesson we know all too well.

Amanda McAllister-Wallner (She/Her) is the Director of California LBGTQ Health & Human Services Network. She joined the California LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network in 2016. Prior to working at the Network, Amanda was a Health Policy Fellow and the Policy and Operations Manager at the Los Angeles LGBT Center

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Davis Pride 2021: Photos

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By Wendy Weitzel, Freelance Writer, Editor Columnist, The Davis Enterprise

avis showed its pride over the weekend with a Disco Skate Party on Saturday and the Davis Pride Festival on Sunday, in coordination with the Davis Craft and Vintage Market, both in Central Park. The festival included music, crafts, food and fun.

The Davis Phoenix Coalition plans another Pride Month event on June 25: a Ride with Pride with Bike Party Davis, honoring the late Cathy Speck. Cyclists and their decked-out bikes will meet at Central Park, 401 C St., at 6 p.m.

Dillan Horton, left, and Anoosh Jorjorian pose for a photo Saturday at the Disco Skate Party.

A drag queen from NorCal Divas Drag Revue performs at Sunday’s Davis Pride Festival.

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Palm Springs Pride to be Community Coming Out Celebration Under the Theme - You Are Included

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alm Springs Pride organizers announced a traditional slate of in-person Pride events for the 35th Annual LGBTQ+ celebration scheduled for November 1-7, 2021. The Pride parade and festival featuring multiple stages of live entertainment and a vendor marketplace will return to downtown Palm Springs.

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“You Are Included” is more than a theme for Pride 2021; it proclaims all are seen and loved.

Our gender identity, race, religion, nationality, health status, and appearance are embraced, celebrated, and welcome at Palm Springs Pride.

Details for Pride Week activities can be found online at palmspringspride.gay.

George Zander Candlelight Vigil and March on Monday, November 1, 2021 (6-7pm) at New Downtown Park at Museum Way and Belardo Rd, Palm Springs, CA Pride Drive-in Movie Night screening on November 3, 2021 (5:30-9:30pm) Camelot Theatres 2300 E Baristo Rd November 5: Flag Raising Friday, November 5, 2021 (10am-10:30am) Presented by Lighthouse Dispensary Pride Weekend starts with our traditional Flag Raising, where our elected officials and civic leaders speak about what Pride means to the City of Palm Springs. Location announced in early August.

Palm Springs Coming Out Celebration A Night of Hundred Stars Friday, November 5, 2021 (5:00 pm and 10:00 pm) at Palm Canyon Drive from Museum Way to Tahquitz Canyon Way. Free Event. VIP tickets available for pre-reception in late summer. Pspride.org.

Light Up the Night Nov 1-7, 2021, 5pm-12am Help illuminate Palm Springs in a sea of pink or rainbow. Homes and businesses are called on to light up in pink or rainbow colors celebrating all-inclusive love and solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community in Palm Springs. The best display of lights - in pink or rainbow - could win you air travel certificates for two on Alaska Airlines and other great prizes. The public will vote online for the best residence and business decorations.

Front Runners Pride 5K Run and Walk Saturday, November 6 at West Chino Drive and Belardo Road palmspringspriderun.com.

Palm Springs Pride 5k Run and Walk start at Chino Drive and Belardo Road, Palm Springs.

For details, visit our event site: https://www. palmspringspriderun.com 5th Annual Palm Springs Pride Golf Tournament Saturday, Nov 6 (7:00am-2pm) Location announced soon. Register: www. stonewallgolfers.com The Palm Springs Pride Golf Tournament, presented by the Stonewall Golfers, returns with a friendly 4-Person Team Scramble.

The entry fee buys 18 holes of championship golf, cart, practice range access, a light breakfast, and an awards lunch. Register by going to the Events page at www. stonewallgolfers.com, create a guest account,

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and select the Palm Springs Pride event on 11/6/21.

Pride Festival Day 1 Sat., November 6, 2021 (11am-10pm) Free event. A street fair, a music festival of diverse artists, and a gathering place, the Pride Festival is a celebration of all that is LGBTQ+ in Palm Springs. Downtown Palm Springs. Exhibitor marketplace opens at 11:00 am Servicemember Reembrace Wreath Laying for LGBT Veterans Saturday, November 6, 2021 (2:00pm-2:30pm) Pride Festival Main Stage Youth Zone @ the Pride Festival November 6 and November 7. The Youth Zone is the hub for LGBTQ+ youth and their allies at the Pride Festival. Free access for youth 14 to 21. Open Saturday 11 am–5 pm and Sunday, 11 am-4 pm PS Drag Brunch Pride Edition, Sunday, November 7 (9am-Noon) Roly China Fusion 1107 N Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs www. psdragbrunch.com/ Palm Springs HOTTEST drag show PS Drag Brunch hosts the most fabulous Pride Edition event! Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Palm Springs Pride organization.

EIGHT4NINE Restaurant & Lounge Champagne Brunch and Parade Party Sunday, November 7 (9am) 849 N Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. eight4nine.com.

EIGHT4NINE will donate 25% of the sales from the Pride Brunch menu to Greater Palm Springs Pride to help keep Pride free and accessible for everyone. Join us for the annual Pride Parade and enjoy. Make your reservations early by calling 760-325-8490 or visit https://eight4nine.com/ Trio Pride Parade Party Sunday, November 7 (9 am til parade ends) 707 N Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. triopalmsprings.com Reservations: 760-864-Trio (8746). Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Palm Springs Pride organization.

Palm Springs Pride Parade Sunday, November 7 (10am to 12:30pm) Free Event.

Pride Festival Day 2 Sunday, November 7, 2021 (11am-5pm) A street fair, a music festival of diverse artists, and a gathering place, the Pride Festival is a celebration of all that is LGBTQ+ in Palm Springs. Downtown Palm Springs. Exhibitor marketplace opens at 11:00 am Free Event. Sip, Sashay and Celebrate in one large Event Venue in Downtown Palm Springs! All the action happens on Palm Canyon Dr and in the new downtown park and surrounding streets.

• Main Stage on Tahquitz and Palm Canyon.

(2 pm–10:00 pm) • Downtown Park Stage on Museum Way and Museum Dr (2 pm–10 pm)PS outwordmagazine.com

The Vaccine Summer of Love

By Christopher J. Beale

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OVID-19 and it’s restrictions made for a lonely year for many folks. For some, their entire sex lives have been dormant while awaiting a vaccine, and now that the shots are available people are beginning to get together again. I spoke to two single gay men about dating and sex pre-pandemic, and about what lies ahead in the Vaccine Summer of Love.

“In February I met this sweet guy on Tinder,“ recalls Peter Fenton — a 25 year old author.

They dated for 6 weeks before Fenton entered lockdown with his family in another town, “and unfortunately,“ he adds, “we were not at a point where I could commit to (the guy) and say, ‘alright, we’re doing this.” The two drifted apart and in the time since he says, “I have not had a date or hookup, or anything.”

“I am married to work, and it’s rare that I date,“ says the 60 year old gay man I’ll call Andrew, “I’ve had peers tell me, you’re not going to find love here in the office, you need

and I’d only re-installed the “gay social networking” app a few weeks before — with my boyfriend’s blessing.

As I scrolled through headless torsos, airbrushed headshots, and various expressions of sexual prowess and preference I realized that this app — and all the others like it — has for more than a year been the main source of conversation, connection and virtual company for so many. A sort of digital gay bar in a time when it’s the only safe way to convene. In the summer of 2021 however, Grindr is morphing back into a sex-fueled digital gallery of

During the pandemic, Andrew says, “I turned to phone sex...”

to get out!” Andrew says that his last date was in February of 2020, “Great guy, I haven’t seen him since.” Shortly after the date Andrew was furloughed from his job, “Then I was laid off, and I’ve got all this time, and no one to spend it with. That felt lonely.”

During the pandemic Andrew says, “I turned to phone sex,” he cracks a mischevious smile, “I like the stories the other guy tells, and hearing somebody else breathing is kind of exciting.” It’s also completely COVID-safe, unlike meeting up in person which he says the men online in his preferred fifty-plus age group did not seem willing to do.

The first few months living back at home were a rough adjustment for Peter Fenton, “I still had a drive to be with this guy... or anyone,“ but after a while he says, “My life turned sort of monastic. There was a rhythm to each day and I did some things, but (sex) was just not part of the picture.”

Neither Andrew, nor Peter wasted the extra time during their celibacy, both focusing heavily on their work. Fenton wrote a book called “Abandon All Hope” that led to him getting a book deal, and Andrew has interviewed for a huge job in his field and is waiting for word. Both men are now fully vaccinated, and beginning to tip-toe back into the dating pool.

I got my second vaccine shot in San Francisco, feeling lighter on my feet as I walked the 2 miles back to my apartment.

Along the way I opened Grindr and scrolled to see who was around. I am in a relationship outwordmagazine.com

opportunity. There is definitely something hot about being vaccinated.

Post-pandemic Andrew says he is primarily looking for a boyfriend but sex is obviously important, “I want someone who is physically affectionate. I’ve only been with one person since March of last year. And I’m thinking maybe I’m not getting my fair share,” he laughs, “maybe it’s out there. I’m not seeing it in my chat boxes.”

Peter Fenton prefers Hinge, which bills itself as the dating app designed to be deleted, to the other dating apps, “I feel like I’ve gotten pickier in all of this, (the pandemic) sort of made all of us shift our mindset to, I only want to do something if I really want to do it. And I think that goes for dating as well.”

“I was meticulous about updating my photos,” he explains as opens his profile, “Hinge forces you to write things and I like that.” Fenton reads, “I’m five foot seven. I am white. Yes I drink. No, I don’t smoke.”

Fenton’s first post-pandemic date is scheduled already, “Maybe this is just a one date and done, or maybe it does turn into something bigger, but I’m just valuing connecting with people. We just spent a year isolated from them.”

Get vaccinated, take PrEP, put yourself out there and maybe you’ll meet someone new during the Vaccine Summer of Love.

Christopher J. Beale is a freelance journalist based in San Francisco, CA. christopherjbeale.com June 24, 2021 - July 8, 2021 • No. 675

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People Of Color Face A System That Is Stacked Against Them

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By Matthew Burlingame

merica’s people of color (POC) communities continue to face a system that is unquestioningly stacked against them. Incidents of police brutality and people turning in POC families just for having a picnic in the public park fill social media almost daily. This has led Sacramento County and numerous health organizations to declare systemic racism a major health crisis.

But this is not news for Clarmundo Sullivan, the founder and Executive Director of Golden Rule Services (GRS), an organization that has been vital in the fight against justice disparities as well as HIV/ AIDS in Sacramento’s POC communities for the past 21 years.

“It is an extraordinary tool in the fight to not only have the struggles that black and brown people go through each and every day be recognized,” says Sullivan, “but to spotlight the devastating toll it takes on their health and well-being.”

This June the world commemorated 40 years of battling HIV/AIDS in the United States. This means that just over 50% of the nation has never known a time without AIDS. For over half of that period GRS has made it their mission to be part of ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

“We have adopted California’s Getting To Zero Plan,” Sullivan explains. “It’s based on getting to zero HIV/AIDS related deaths, zero new infections, and zero stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. It is critical that new cases of HIV are diagnosed and gotten into treatment right away. Also keeping individuals living with HIV engaged in their treatment.”

This plan is vital to GRS’ mission to provide culturally aware prevention education and testing to its clientele. Black/ African American people are only 13% of the U.S. population, yet account for 42% new HIV diagnoses in the United States and dependent areas. Hispanic/Latinx people make up 27%.

There is no shortage of challenges when it comes to outreach into critically at-risk and disadvantaged populations. But through funding provided by the Ryan White HIV/ AIDS Cares Act GRS has been able to overcome many of these obstacles.

“We can now provide free HIV/STD testing, outreach and education, as well as navigation into preventive measures such as PrEP and PEP,” says Sullivan. “It also offers us the ability to provide outreach to those populations who often go overlooked such as homeless people, substance users, and those with mental health issues.”

Ryan White funding has also provided GRS the ability to hire full-time Non-Medical Case Manager (NMCM) William Rhodes who has a Bachelors’ Degree in Social Work from CSUS. A NMCM provides advice for people living with HIV/AIDS in order to help them obtain financial, legal, social, and community resources.

“Imagine being diagnosed with HIV and being kicked out of your home by your family,” Rhodes says, giving an example of outwordmagazine.com

William Rhodes

what his job entails. “You’ve got no money, no support system, and now you have to face a not very user friendly care system alone.

You’re feeling isolated and scared. That’s where we come in.”

Rhodes works one on one with his clients to formulate an individualized care plan that will help navigate them to needed resources and services as well as monitor the progress.

However, case management is much more than finding resources.

“My job is about working one on one with a client in a cultural and trauma aware environment, and implementing a plan of action that leaves them with a clear path to a healthy life,” says Rhodes.

GRS has long used the motto of “Treat others the way you want to be treated, but even better!” With the program excellence afforded the agency by being Ryan White Program funded, that motto will easily be exceeded in the coming years. The bar has indeed been set even higher by a nonprofit so many underestimated.

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Move for Hunger Launches Educational Resource to Draw Awareness to Hunger in the LGBTQ+ Community

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hile it’s undeniable that the modern world has become far more accepting of the LGBTQ+ community, it’s also important to call attention to large social issues and discrimination still facing the group that aren’t talked about enough. Homelessness, hunger, and the need for reliable allies and food recovery systems continue to be widespread issues in 2021.

Move For Hunger—the national nonprofit reducing food waste and maintaining food recovery programs across the country—wants to draw awareness to these issues. This Pride Month, they launched an educational resource on their website. Because statistics regarding hunger in the LGBTQ+ community have not been widely documented in the past, the New Jerseybased nonprofit is seeking to call attention to issues facing the community and provide a go-to resource for other allies to share information.

“Years of setbacks and anti-discrimination laws have left the LGBTQ+ community in need of food assistance at a much larger rate,” said Adam Lowy, founder and executive director of Move For Hunger. “We want to call attention to this community and the issues they face that don’t get talked about enough. We want to be an ally and provide a resource for information, as well as to help those who aren’t aware of these issues to be an ally as well.”

Some of the statistics include: • LGBTQ+ individuals receive SNAP benefits at twice the rate of non-LGBTQ people.

Despite the benefits that SNAP provides to many LGBTQ individuals, a proposal by the Trump administration limited the program’s assistance for people ages 18 to 49 without children. Implemented in April 2020, the change directly affected over 700,000 able-bodied Americans.

• 52% of the LGBTQ community live in states that do not have anti-discriminatory laws, which adds barriers to them receiving 12 Outword Magazine

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food assistance. With no laws as protection from harassment, discrimination, or refusal of training in the workplace, it’s estimated that nearly 50% remain closeted at work for fear of being treated differently or compromising professional connections.

• 14% of LGBTQ+ members have avoided faith-based food banks, due to the fear of being turned away due to religious affiliations, discrimination and mistreatment.

• Poverty is the root cause of hunger, and the number of LGBTQ people living in poverty is significantly larger than the nonLGBTQ+ community; a recent study reported 22% as compared to 16%. Within the transgender community specifically, a staggering 29% of the total population live in poverty, 30% have been homeless and 27% have been discriminated against or fired from workplaces based on their identity.

• One in six Generation Z adults describe themselves as something other than heterosexual, increasing the total number of LGBTQ+ adults in the U.S. from 4.5% to 5.6% since 2017. Because LGBTQ+ individuals in this country are already predisposed to hunger and homelessness, these issues will affect more individuals as the community continues to expand.

To visit Move For Hunger’s resource regarding hunger in the LGBTQ+ community, including an interactive map with the nondiscrimination laws per state, visit: moveforhunger.org/lgbtq outwordmagazine.com

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The Paring - Quality Wine for $25 a Bottle

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By Diana Kienle Certified Specialist of Wine

any people equate quality with price. While it may be a fair assumption sometimes, it does not hold up under all circumstances. In fact, one quest for wine enjoyers could be to find the best wine for the best price. Price, for many, is a hurdle that gets in the way of enjoying many different wines.

Herein lies the opportunity: The Paring is a well-crafted, modestly priced wine to enjoy anytime. The vineyards are located in Santa Ynez in Santa Barbara County. The winemaker is Matt Dees who skillfully makes Jonata, The Hilt and The Paring. This property is a “sister” to Screaming Eagle as both wineries are owned by the same individual. Matt brings great skill to his craft and delivers on quality. I have enjoyed wines from all three labels for which he is the winemaker and have written about all three labels on the blog before. The price and quality of The Paring bear repeating.

The Paring began as a way to explore different expressions of the vines. As stated on their website: “Made from the vineyard blocks that are either too young or don’t fit into the vintage style of the highly acclaimed JONATA and The Hilt wines—The Paring is a cut of each estate. The Paring puts pedigree first, and then lets imagination take over.”

So what does this mean for you? Truly, it

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means you can explore different varietals or stock up for any reason. At $25 a bottle, it is an opportunity to enjoy well-crafted wine and explore. The lineup includes Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. Summer sippers that will complement your outdoor sunning.

There is Pinot Noir, Syrah and a Red Blend, all worthy of your time and attention that will complement your summer fare.

Here is what Jeb Dunnick has to say about the Chardonnay, the Pinot Noir and the Red Blend: “Lots of sliced apple, spice, and subtle pineapple notes emerge from the 2018 Chardonnay. This beauty is nicely textured and medium-bodied, has a core of sweet fruit, and is just a joy to drink.”

“The 2018 Pinot Noir sports a medium ruby/purple color as well as earthy cherry and raspberry fruits, violets, and peppery herb-like aromas and flavors. It’s nicely textured, with terrific balance as well as outstanding purity of fruit, all making for a smoking value in Pinot Noir. Drink it over

the coming 4-5 years or so.”

The Bordeaux blend, the 2017 Red Wine is based on 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot, and 10% Petit Verdot. Deeply colored, with notes of blackcurrants, tobacco, leafy herbs, and earth, it has medium-bodied depth and richness on the palate, ripe tannins, and a character-filled,

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balanced style that’s ideal for drinking over the coming 5-7 years or so.

For those in the Sacramento Area, Total Wine carries The Paring Red, 2015 and the Sauvignon Blanc 2017. It is the Arden store and again your price is $25. Hurry in to get some for yourself.

Enjoy!

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America’s Cities Are Reopening And SMF Gets You To The Heart Of The Action

By Mark Haneke

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ummer in the city. It’s time to get out of town, reunite with friends and discover new places to love. America’s great cities are reopening and encouraging visitors to come back and explore restaurants, museums, fairs, and festivals that are back and more vibrant than ever after a year when most people were staying home. SMF makes it easy to get away with nonstop flights to America’s most urban destinations.

Houston, America’s fourth-largest city, is easily accessed by its two airports. Three daily nonstop flights from SMF on United to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with additional daily flights on Southwest to Hobby Airport (HOU). The cosmopolitan city has something for everyone – world class dining, museums, shopping and nightlight.

The Space Center Houston ignites curiosity as the official visitor center of NASA Johnson Space Center. Visitors can see the Apollo 17 Command Module or take an interactive mission to Mars. H-Town’s vibrant neighborhoods boast Texas honky-tonks, famous BBQ and swanky wine bars, boutique shops and galleries and the city’s growing fashion and design community.

There is no shortage of iconic things to do in Chicago. Ride the Ferris Wheel at Navy Pier. Take an architecture boat tour. Snap a selfie at The Bean. Indulge in deep dish pizza. Marvel at the city from The Ledge, the all-glass balcony at the top of the Willis Tower. Go to a Cubs game. Laugh out loud at The Second City. The list goes on and on so you may need more than a long weekend!

Southwest Airlines flies nonstop into Midway Airport (MDW) and American Airlines and United Airlines fly into O’Hare Airport (ORD) with a total of seven flights per day in August! The summer months are jam-packed with music festivals from every genre – jazz, blues, gospel and classical – topped off with Lollapalooza in late July. In September, Reeling: The Chicago LGBTQ+ International Film Festival showcases the art of LGBTQ+ through short and long-form films and panel discussions.

JetBlue’s popular seasonal SMF to Boston (BOS) operates four times per week through Labor Day weekend. The 40th Annual Boston Harborfest Celebration includes live music, parades and spectacular fireworks over the harbor. Follow the Freedom Trail to some of the city’s most modern restaurants

Chicago

while walking through colonial history.

Boston was made for sitting at sidewalk cafés, sipping craft beer and experiencing New England’s best museums. Massachusetts was the first state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2004 and that history is chronicled at The History Project through events, exhibits and archives. Cross the Charles River to Cambridge and wander Harvard’s campus and sample Toscannini’s ice cream, named “the world’s best ice cream,” by the New York Times.

The Big Apple is a nonstop flight away on both jetBlue to JFK and United to Newark (EWR). Broadway is back! Starting in September, Tony-winning musicals like Hamilton and Hadestown will be back on the boards, as well as new plays and revivals. Until then, there is still plenty to do and see in New York City. Live music is also making a comeback with an array of

outdoor concerts across the boroughs. NYC Pride Month may wrap at the end of June, but the city is home to numerous museums, statues tours dedicated to important LGBTQ+ figures. Of course NYC is also home to first class museums, world renowned restaurants (as well as incredible hole in the walls where the locals go), superlative shopping and more iconic attractions than you’ll have time for in one trip.

Thank you for flying from SMF! Please make sure you ARRIVE EARLY! For more information on safe travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit sacramento.aero.

Mark Haneke is the Director of Air Service Development Marketing for Sacramento International Airport as well as a seasoned expert in air service development and a savvy world traveler. His travel column appears monthly in Outword to share news on new destinations from Sacramento International Airport, peppered with some of his own personal stories and travel recommendations.

luckybuddypetcare.com

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LGBTQ+ ICONS W

elcome to our third Pride Issue celebrating our LGBTQ+ness! The first issue highlighted a bunch of Pride events all around California and beyond. The second issue focused on Local LGBTQ+ Heroes that were chosen by a special public survey, voted on by you, the community. This third and final special issue will shine a spotlight on several influential LGBTQ+ Icons who are world famous and have done so much to advance our cause as a community. We asked staffers here at Outword and a couple of friends, to choose one or two individuals, and write from the heart. We totally understand that this is not a complete list, by any means, but now that we are back to actually printing on paper, space is once again at a premium. Some of the individuals that we would have also liked to showcase were Rachel Maddow, Harvey Milk, Laverne Cox, RuPaul, Neil Patrick Harris, Robin Roberts and of course, Elton John, to name a few. Maybe next year we can include some of these people, and maybe more, new ones. Stay tuned and continue having a truly wonderful Pride Month!

Lily Tomlin

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By Chris Narloch

uring a conversation with my cousin’s girlfriend a year or two ago, I asked her what she was watching on Netflix, since I’m always curious about young people’s viewing habits.

I was surprised to learn that this twentysomething millennial was hooked on “Grace and Frankie,” a show about two elderly women who become frenemies and then friends after their husbands fall in love (with each other!) and leave them.

As a gay man in my 50s, I love “Grace and Frankie” -- mostly for its cast, which is headlined by the timeless talents of Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, who are 83 and 81, respectively -- but I would not have thought that somebody less than half my age would be into the show.

I asked the young woman if she was familiar with Tomlin’s work on the comedy/ variety TV show “Laugh-in,” which was popular in the late ‘60s and ‘70s, and she replied, “What’s ‘Laugh-in’?”

I proceeded to show her several YouTube clips on my phone of Edith Ann and Ernestine, Tomlin’s classic characters from fifty years ago, and the young woman’s Tomlin fandom only increased.

That was when I realized what I had always known subconsciously -- Lily Tomlin is a queer icon who has been relevant and made people of all ages laugh for over half a century and counting.

On TV, in movies, and on stage, Tomlin has entertained audiences for decades and has three-fourths of an EGOT to show for it, lacking only an Oscar, which she should have won for her brilliant big screen debut in Robert Altman’s epic comedy from 1975, “Nashville.”

Tomlin made other terrific films with that late, great director -- “Short Cuts,” “The Player,” and “A Prairie Home Companion” 16 Outword Magazine

-- in addition to giving wonderful performances in such crowd-pleasing comedy classics as “9 to 5,” “All Of Me,” and “Big Business,” costarring with the likes of Steve Martin, Bette Midler, and Dolly Parton.

In addition to conquering the small and big screens, Tomlin has won a pair of Tony Awards for her remarkable work on stage, in seminal productions like “The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe.”

In 2013, after 42 years together, Tomlin married her writing (and life) partner Jane Wagner in a private Los Angeles ceremony.

Their relationship was an open secret in the business for decades, during a time when TV and movie stars had to hide their homosexuality for fear of losing their careers.

How times have changed since those bad old days, and the Tomlin of today has played a lesbian on screen in several films, opposite Cher in 1999’s “Tea with Mussolini” and more recently in “Grandma,” costarring Julia Garner. The actress also narrated “The Celluloid Closet,” a superb 1996 documentary about the history of queer

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representation in the movies.

Tomlin’s triumphant return to TV stardom on Netflix (as Frankie Bergstein) was no surprise to a life-long Lily fanatic like me. I used to imitate Ernestine’s famous snort and Edith Ann’s adorable lisp and repeat their routines for the amusement of my friends when I was a kid, and I have followed her remarkable career ever since.

Each new generation seems to rediscover her comic genius, and that’s why I chose Lily Tomlin as my favorite gay icon for this issue of Outword. outwordmagazine.com

LGBTQ+ ICONS Lady Gaga

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By Kristy Harris Instagram: @cavegrrl

rom the very beginning of her career, singer and actress Lady Gaga aka Stefani Germanotta, has repeatedly shown her allyship (it’s no accident her name was literally ALLY in “A Star is Born”) and commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community.

George Takei

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She came out as bisexual in an interview with Barbara Walters in 2009, while explaining her song “Poker Face” is about Gaga having sex with a man while thinking of another woman. OK, girl!

Then in 2011, while being interviewed by Anderson Cooper, Gaga was asked about the rumor that she “had a male appendage” or “was a hermaphrodite” to which Gaga replied, “Maybe I do. Would it be so terrible?” Such an iconic serve.

Since her self-love anthem “Born This Way” was released, Lady Gaga has been a fixture on any gay bar playlist. Walk on to any dance floor and you might hear: “Love Game”, “Paparazzi” the aforementioned “Poker Face”, “Telephone”, “Judas”, or “The Edge of Glory”. You might also hear her more recent work, another collection of club bops from Chromatica: “Stupid Love”, “Rain

on Me”, “911”, or “Free Woman”. I’m personally looking forward to some of these tunes getting the club “play time” they missed during their release in 2020.

Gaga started the “Born This Way Foundation” in 2011 with her mother, Cynthia Germanotta. The foundation has launched initiatives like #KindMonsters #BeKind and #ChannelKindness to help end bullying of LQBTQ youth and has even partnered with Starbucks to promote their kindness message.

In closing, my friend Josh (@itsjoshbitchh on Instagram) says this about Lady Gaga, “Lady Gaga was (one of) the first artist(s) to speak up for gay rights. She has been inclusive from the beginning of her career.

She continues to be a voice against hate of all kinds and promotes equality and love for all.”

of representation in reruns of my favorite show. And finally through the bold action of George Takei I found it. It may not have been seen on screen, or reflected in the

character, but it was there all along. He was there—a gay man, an Asian man, a survivor— creating a legacy future gay Trekkies could be proud of.

By Matthew Burlingame

egardless of being “Born That Way” or how many moms say “I knew since you were four years old,” many LGBTQ+ people aren’t truly aware of who or what we are until our teens. For those of us… of a certain age… who hit puberty just before the internet and long before social media was even a concept it was even more difficult to figure it all out.

For many of us discovering ourselves through the 80s and early 90s we didn’t receive the validation we desperately longed for in popular culture. These days it seems that every Netflix show contract requires at least one LGBTQ character, but in those days actors stayed in the closet and LGBTQ characters on television were either one off “cause of the week” episodes, or the butt of the joke.

So we often had to read between the lines of television shows to find representation— once we knew what to look for. For me it was with the show, or franchise in this case, of Star Trek. To call me a fan of the show would be an understatement. I was and still am a hardcore Trekkie! I even wrote an (unpublished) Star Trek: The Next Generation novel in my 20s. And, yes, I included a gay character.

But aside from some occasional storylines in the older shows—a planet with a gender neutral people, the infamous lesbian kiss between Trills, and, well… that whole Janeway and Seven-of-Nine thing… we never really got that moment of true validation.

At least not until October 2005 when George Takei who played Lieutenant Hikaru Sulu in Star Trek: The Original Series came out publicly in an issue of Frontiers magazine and acknowledged his then 18 year relationship with Brad Altman. He did so after then California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed same-sex marriage legislation. outwordmagazine.com

All the gay, bi and pan boys who grew up crushing over Wil Weaton as Wesley Crusher were suddenly trying to find the video clips of a super ripped Lieutenant Sulu running shirtless through the ship with his sword out.

But there is far more to his story than navigating a starship through unexplored space. Takei who was born in 1937 was no stranger to political activism and it would later weave its way through his work on the 2012 Broadway show Allegiance which was inspired by his experiences during the Japanese American internment of World War II. His career began in the late 1950s with english voice overs to Godzilla monster films and to be a working Asian actor in the late 1900s he often had to play parts that were stereotypical caricatures of Asian people. But after coming out publicly Takei found himself reinvented into a cultural icon of a different sort, affording him the chance to explore characters that honored his native culture rather than delivering racial stereotypes.

One such part was on another sci-fi television show in 2007 called Heroes. As Kaito Nakamura, a successful Japanese businessman and father to one of the time/ space-travelling main characters who also happens to be an obsessive fan of Star Trek.

Takei’s openness about his sexuality left a legacy on the Star Trek franchise, including in the reboot of the film franchise when the character of Sulu was shown as having a husband and daughter.

I had spent 20 years trying to find any hint

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LGBTQ+ ICONS

Sylvia Rivera & Janet Mock: Two Influential Transgender Icons

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ur contributing writer Lauren Pulido takes a look at two influential transgender icons: Sylvia Rivera and Janet Mock.

Sylvia Rivera When I think of an influential icon, I think of the trailblazing efforts pushed forward by our transgender ancestors, specifically transgender women of color. I think of the powerful personal sacrifices and endless advocacy that pushed progress forward, and we owe it all to our transgender elders like the incomparable Sylvia Rivera. Sylvia refused to accept conformity to the status quo, constantly calling out the mainstream “gay rights” movement for perpetuating system that continued to specifically disenfranchise people of color. Sylvia is also known for speaking out against the complacency of the gay rights movement in the 1970’s when including transgender people of color and centering the needs of our Black and Brown transgender communities facing larger rates of incarceration and policing during this time.

Even as the Gay Liberation Front and the Gay Activist Alliance started gaining force and momentum post Stonewall, Sylvia Rivera did not back down. She fought tirelessly against the exclusion of transgender people from the Sexual Orientatoion Non Discrimination Act in New York and co-founded the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR). STAR was

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By Lauren Pulido (He/Him/They/Them) IG: @Lauren_pulido

founded by Sylvia Rivera and Marsha “Pay It No Mind” Johnson after seeing the needs of transgender youth and youth experiencing homelessness that were being left out of gay rights issues. STAR also helped center the voices of sex workers who are to this day still left in the margins when we discuss LGBTQ+ issues. Community created spaces like STAR are crucial and life changing for those who are able to access these resources.

Far often than not, community created spaces go underfunded and under resourced,

it is our job to support and protect these spaces that have been passed on to us by those who dedicated their life to progress. . One of Sylvia’s most memorable moments was the Liberation Day Rally on Christopher Street in New York City in 1973.

Sylvia powerfully spoke to a crowd rallying for the Gay Liberation Front addressing the anguish and harm happening to transgender people who face incarceration. Sylvia pleaded to include transgender people into the gay rights movement and to help center

more voices of color when fighting for gay liberation.

As someone who suffered from systematic poverty and racism, Sylvia Rivera used her voice for unity, sharing her stories, pain, and struggles to create a space for community.

She amplified the voices of the most vulnerable and marginalized members of our community. It is for these reasons and so many more that Sylvia’s legacy and sacrifices must be cherished and remembered as an important part of our history.

Janet Mock Janet Mock, WOOO! What a powerhouse.

After obtaining a Masters in Journalism, Janet immediately started working at People’s magazine as a staff editor where she worked for about 5 years. After publicly coming out as transgender in 2011, her career in journalism shifted from editor to media advocate and became a well known name for transgender activism. Fast forward a few years and we see Janet become a New York Times bestselling author for her two raw and personal memoirs, Redefining Realness and Surpassing Certainty, sharing her story as a Black trans woman. This was just a glimpse of the raw emotion that Janet has put into her work over the years.

LIVE, WORK, POSE! In 2019, Janet Mock made history as the first transgender person to sign a production contract with a major studio by signing a deal with Netlix after being brought on as a co-creater and writer for our beloved Pose. This 3 season series tells the story of Black and brown LGBTQ+ youth in the 1980s and ‘90s ball scene and the “houses” that they created as a mechanism for survival and chosen family.

But the impact of Pose goes beyond comparing this intimate vision to the likes of documentaries such as Paris is Burning. This is one of the first series that allowed us to see the stories of our black and brown transgender siblings in a narrative that was shaped by real lived experiences. Pose

invited us all in, and the millions of viewers who were able to watch were given a narrative written by and for Black trans people.

Seeing stories of our Black and brown transgender siblings in narratives created by those who have lived these experiences has the power to redefine forced narratives placed on our most marginalized. Janet Mock poured herself and her own experiences in to Pose and centered a cast of Black and brown transgender characters; a cast that would go on to progress representation in other roles and/or create organizations around supporting and advocating for trans people of color.

At the premier of the 3rd season of Pose, Janet called out Big Hollywood, and Pose co-creater Ryan Murphy, for perpetuating harm and the mistreatment of transgender talent in the industry. She also addressed the large pay gap and undercompensation for the talent and work put in by Black and brown transgender people. Janet provided a different narrative to this story, one where Black and brown trans people are compensated with adequate pay, where they are able to tell their own stories, be represented accurately and meaningfully, and are respected for exactly who they are. Janet Mock is one of the key players in making this narrative a reality.

That is why Janet is and will always be a legendary and influential transgender icon.

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LGBTQ+ ICONS

Pete Buttigieg

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Words and Image by Ron Tackitt

ete Buttigieg burst onto the scene a couple of years ago as one of the Democratic candidates that ran for President in 2020. He made an immediate, lasting impression on me from the first time I Googled him to see who this person was that was running for the highest government position in the land. Although he didn’t win that race, he has certainly become a major player in the US’s political landscape. All the while, never downplaying his status as a homosexual, married man. For this, and so many other reasons, for me, Pete is certainly an LGBTQ+ icon.

When the world was first learning about Pete his resume and list of accomplishments came up time and time again. There is no need to go over all of them here, again, but suffice to say that he is obviously intelligent, well-schooled and has an amazing amount of experience in government for someone of his age. Of course during his Presidential bid his age was constantly used against him, but now that he has been instated as the Secretary of Transportation for the Federal Government, you hear that objection less and less.

The reason he is such an Icon for me is that regardless of all the amazing things he has accomplished in government, he has been able to do them, and more, all while not hiding his homosexuality. He is happily married, they have two rescue dogs, and compared to most politicians, they live modestly. What he has been able to do is show the country, and the world, that being gay does not preclude you from helping straight people. You truly get the sense that he feels that people are people. Their sexual orientation alone doesn’t define them, their actions do.

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Pete is one of the first politicians, in a long time, that I have seen that speaks to people, not at them. While he doesn’t always answer the exact question that is asked of him, he does manage to convey why his ideas are important in the context of the asked question. He’s so smart, but he doesn’t talk down to anyone (that I have seen) and within reason, he has made huge efforts to bring our two sparring government parties to agree on good ideas, because they are good ideas, not poo-poo them just because they originated on the other side of the aisle.

It is still too soon to know what good will ultimately come from all of his hard work, but Pete gives me hope that there are people, young people, out there that are willing, and able, to take the reins and help lead and shape this country. And, whether he means to or not, he is also showing us just why a lot of the dinosaurs running our government need to go.

I enjoy and look forward to seeing what Pete will bring to our country. He has so much to offer and such a great demeanor while doing it. Oh yeah, and he’s gay. Go Pete!

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Outword Magazine 21

More Latinx Love on the Big Screen

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By Chris Narloch

s Ms. Taylor Swift always says, don’t listen to the haters. Just “shake if off” and ignore the Debbie Downers trying to piss on the triumphant big-screen version of “In The Heights,” Jon M. Chu’s movie of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tony Award-winning musical about New York City’s Washington Heights neighborhood.

Rita Moreno

Yes, colorism has been a huge problem in Hollywood from the beginning, and continues to be, but “In The Heights” is so pro-immigrant and so culturally rich and minority-positive that the recent criticism of it can feel like sour grapes.

I urge you to check out “In The Heights” and make up your own mind. Don’t be one of those people who knock something without even seeing it. Here is another new movie currently in theaters, that is keeping the Latinx love going.

Rita Moreno: Just A Girl Who Decided To Go For It At the age of 89 and all of 5’ 2”, the Puerto Rican screen legend Rita Moreno is hotter than ever (and hotter than a pistol). The proof is this dynamite documentary, which tells the story of her amazing life and career through fascinating interviews with the actress herself and with other Latinx performers she inspired.

“Rita Moreno: Just A Girl Who Decided To Go For It” was executive-produced by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Norman Lear, who cast Moreno in the recent reboot of his classic sitcom “One Day At A Time,” as a feisty and sexy Cuban grandmother.

Moreno, who is most famous for playing the fiery Anita in “West Side Story,” was typecast as “ethnic” for decades in Hollywood, where she was often relegated to stereotypical roles that she hated and fought to transcend.

Moreno is still so vibrant and hardworking that you want to know her secret. The new documentary is a glorious testament to her struggles, her tenacity, and ultimately her survival skills as a woman and an actress who decided to go for it and never gave up.

“Rita Moreno: Just A Girl Who Decided To Go For It” opened at Sacramento’s Tower Theatre on June 18. For more information, visit https://www.angelikafilmcenter.com/tower

Rita Moreno

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Food

These Docs Show Their Pride ith all the queer programming bombarding viewers

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during Pride Month, it can be tough to know which shows to see and which to flee. Here are two prideful documentaries that are indeed worth your time.

Pride: An FX Original Documentary Series “Pride” is a six-part documentary series chronicling the struggle for LGBTQ+ civil rights in America from the 1950s through the 2000s. Six renowned LGBTQ+ directors explore heroic and heartbreaking stories that define us as a nation.

The limited series spans the FBI surveillance of homosexuals during the 1950s Lavender Scare to the “Culture

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By Chris Narloch Ahead Of The Curve This essential LGBTQ+ documentary traces the story of Curve, the best-selling lesbian magazine ever published. “Ahead Of The Curve” had its World Premiere at the 2020 Frameline Pride Showcase, followed by virtual festival screenings including Outfest and Newfest.

The award-winning documentary featuring Melissa Etheridge, Lea DeLaria, Jewelle

Wars” of the 1990s and beyond, exploring the queer legacy of the Civil Rights movement and the battle over marriage equality.

The evolution of trans rights and identities through the decades is also charted via interviews and archival footage of pioneers including Christine Jorgensen, Flawless Sabrina, Ceyenne Doroshow, Susan Stryker, Kate Bornstein, Dean Spade and Raquel Willis.

“Pride” is now streaming via FX on Hulu.

June A past performer from “Broadway Bares”

Beverage

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and More

Gomez and Curve magazine founder Franco Stevens, from directors Jen Rainin and Rivkah Beth Medow, debuted simultaneously on Home Video digital platforms and DVD this June 1.

“Ahead Of The Curve” received numerous awards, including the Jury Grand Prix award at Montreal’s Image+Nation Film Festival and the Audience award at aGLIFF. Learn more at https://curvemagmovie.com

“Ahead of the Curve” - Franco Interviews Women At Michfest.

Outword Magazine 23

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Ending Pride Month 2021 with Final Week of Celebration

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he Sacramento LGBT Community Center is closing out 2021’s Pride month celebration with a week full of events starting June 21. A full list and details of these events can be found on the Sacramento Pride website at www.sacramentopride.org.

BADLANDS Glowing With Pride (June 21 – June 2003 K St 27) – On June 21 at 8 p.m. In association Sacramento with Equality California, The LGBTQ Caucus, and the Capitol Staff Association, Friday, July 9th To Sponsor this Pagethe California State Capitol will glow with Contact Fred at 916.329.9280 ext.1Rainbow lights through June 27.

5:30-7:00pm and

Throughout the week, other public buildings and businesses will join in the fun and bathe the region in rainbow lights, celebrating Pride.

You Betta Work Fair! (June 24 | 3p-6p) – Local businesses will be coming together at the Sacramento LGBT Community Center for our You Betta Work Fair! An in-person LGBTQ+ affirming employment fair for our LGBTQ+ jobseekers.

Virtual Pride Expo (June 26 | 11a – 5p) – Powered by REMO, login to a special virtual expo of all our Sacramento Pride champions. Interact and learn more about our amazing sponsors, what they do, and how you can get connected!

Pride Live Broadcast! (June 27 | 11a) – Tune into our LIVE Pride Broadcast on Fox40.

DOCO Pride (June 26-27 | 11a – 10p)

– Join us for DOCO Pride, a free public celebration of the LGBTQ+ community.

DOCO Pride will feature a live line-up of comedians, musical acts, and drag performers on stage at DOCO. Sacramento Pride Ride (June 29) – In partnership with the Sacramento Area Bike Association, the Sacramento Pride Ride will start at the Sacramento LGBT Community Center the evening of June 29, for a ride through the city! We will be giving away prizes for Best Decorated Bike and Best Costume!

Give Out Day! (June 30) – Give out Day is the national day of philanthropy for LGBTQ+ organizations. Help us end Pride month with your support, visit www. saccenter.org/donate to participate.

The Sacramento LGBT Community Center thanks the local businesses, community members, and our Pride Sponsors, who were able to make this year’s Sacramento Pride Month possible. For more information about Sacramento Pride Month events happening for the rest of June, please visit www.sacramentopride.org.

Check Out SFMT’s “Tale Of The Resistance”

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By Chris Narloch

ime on Radio? Well, yes, as a matter of fact! The Tony Award-winning San Francisco Mime Troupe presents their 62nd Season this summer, with “Tales Of The Resistance, Volume 2: Persistence,” a series of radio play podcasts in two genres: adventure & mystery! Individual episodes will be about 29 minutes long, and presented as podcasts released weekly from July 4 thru Sept. 5, 2021. They can be listened to at https://www.sfmt. org/talesvol2 and on radio stations across the country, in addition to Spotify, Soundcloud, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

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Suds2go Hand Wash Available Now hese days we all are washing our hands and using hand sanitizer

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more than ever, and many of us, me included, also have avoided public restrooms. We recently saw a new product called Suds2go on the TV show “Shark Tank” and couldn’t wait to try it out and share it with our readers! Outword brought the product to our very first in person event last Friday and had some fun friends try it out.

It is a brilliant idea and allows you to have clean water and a foaming hand soap anywhere. The sample we received came with a little bottle of rosemary Lavender soap, but you can use whatever soap you like to fill the dispenser. Take it with you anywhere you go, keep it in the car, take it to the dog park, on hikes, to the beach and in our case, to our Liquid Therapy Happy Hour. Not only were the cocktails flowing but so was the hand washing.

Suds2go have several different products and the one we were able to try included a stainless steel bottle and the pump that is screwed on top, however, they also sell the bottle top separately.

Their Dual Purpose Water bottle system is refillable and allows the user to have clean water along with foaming hand soap, for use anywhere. The SudsCap, is a pre-loaded, disposable cap that fits onto any plastic water bottle, allowing the user to turn any disposable water bottle into a portable and convenient hand washing device. To get more information or to purchase go to www.mysuds2go.com

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C Outword Magazine 27

More Queer Music for Pride

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By Chris Narloch

t can be a full-time job to listen to all the new music released for Pride Month by queer and queer-friendly artists. This year, I managed to narrow my article down to three talented performers who are extremely popular with music lovers of pretty much every persuasion.

Lil Nas X- Montero This openly gay rapper gave the devil his due in a startling music video for “Montero,” the first single from his upcoming full-length debut CD. If there is any queer person left who hasn’t already seen that sexy clip, you need to check it out -- it’s by far the gayest music video ever released by a major, mainstream male rapper.

Lil Nax X shows some serious skin in the “Montero” video, sliding down a stripper pole into Hell, where he proceeds to give Satan a deadly lap dance before taking his place on the devil’s throne. The video -- a bold leap forward for queer representation in rap music -- is darkly beautiful and filled with amazing, expensive-looking CGI. The song itself is also progressive, with edgier and more emotionally naked lyrics than the artist displayed on his recent ep and its monster hit (“Old Town Road”), which catapulted Lil Nas X into the musical stratosphere. After the enormous success of “OTR,” I was worried that the rapper might be a one-hit wonder, but “Montero” triumphantly proves otherwise.

Lil Nas X

Lady Gaga -- Born This Way: The 10th Anniversary Edition Lady G’s Pride Month gift to her millions of little monsters, the 10th Anniversary Edition of her “Born This Way” album, includes the original disc plus six new versions of songs from the CD reimagined by artists representing and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community.

The new package will be released on June 25, and I was unable to preview all the new tracks before our deadline, but three of them had been released and they break down as follows.

Big Freedia’s cover of “Judas” and Kylie Minogue’s take on “Marry the Night” are nowhere near as strong as Gaga’s originals, but the great Orville Peck has come up with a fascinating, countrified version of “Born This Way” that makes me hungry to hear the other three new tracks on this release, and their mystery artists.

Todrick Hall - Femuline I haven’t managed to see this gender-bending performer live yet, but judging by his wildly sexy music videos, he must be a real firecracker in person. As a recording artist, however, Hall still needs work, if this upbeat but uneven new CD is any indication.

I like the trans-positive title and message of “Femuline,” and the track “Both” is an interesting ode to sexual versatility, but too much of the CD sounds like what I like to call ‘queer bubblegum dance music’. It’s closer to the dull disco of Sofi Tukker than the sophisticated synthesized sounds of Robyn or Dua Lipa.

Still, the CD is not without its highlights, including the fantastic first track (“Foreplay”) and an effective marriage of hip-hop and disco entitled “GG.” The duds include duets with Tyra Banks -- is she a singer now? -- and Nicole Scherzinger, and “Rainin’ Fellas,” an unfortunate homage to The Weather Girls’ classic “It’s Raining Men.” On the plus side, Hall somehow managed to get Brandy and Chaka Khan (!) to duet with him, on “Click Clack” and “Fabulosity,” although their superior singing makes Hall’s vocal limitations even more apparent.

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The Top 50 LGBTQ+ Anthems

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ady Gaga’s loud and proud hit ‘Born This Way’ was crowned the number one pride anthem by UK’s LGBT community.

The 2011 hit was closely followed by Diana Ross’ ‘I’m Coming Out’ in second place, followed by the disco classic ‘I Will Survive’ by Gloria Gaynor.

1. Born This Way.............Lady Gaga 2. I’m Coming Out..........Diana Ross 3. I Will Survive................Gloria Gaynor 4. I Am What I Am.........Gloria Gaynor 5. Dancing Queen...........ABBA 6. It’s Raining Men.........The Weather Girls 7. Believe...............................Cher

Advertiser Directory ACCOUNTING/TAX PREP

jsteele@1stallied.com

RUSSELL, CPAS Jason Russell, CPA Lic. 99177 Jason@RussellCPAs.com 916-966-9366

GRAPHIC DESIGN

ADULT STORES

L’AMOUR SHOPPE 2531 Broadway, 916-736-3467l

AUTO DEALERS

ELK GROVE SUBARU 8585 Laguna Grove Dr., Elk Grove, 877-360-0259 ElkGroveSubaru.com ELK GROVE DODGE, CHRYSLER, JEEP 8575 Laguna Grove Dr., Elk Grove, 877-399-4262 ElkGroveDodge.com KARL FIGENSHU New or Pre-owned Car Sales (BMW, Lexus, Mercedes, etc.)

916-971-2113

BANKING Let’s Have A Kiki - Scissor Sisters

Sisters are Doing it for Themselves- Eurythmics

8. Freedom............................George Michael 9. Relax................................... Frankie Goes To Hollywood 10. Express Yourself.........Madonna 11. We Are Family.............Sister Sledge 12. A Little Respect...........Erasure 13. I’m Every Woman......Chaka Khan 14. Gay Bar.............................Electric Six 15. Man! I Feel Like A Woman

.................................................Shania Twain 16. I Wanna Dance With Somebody

.................................................Whitney Houston 17. Everybody’s Free........Rozella 18. Sisters are Doing it for Themselves

.................................................Eurythmics 19. Spinning Around.......Kylie Minogue 20. All the Lovers..............Kylie Minogue 21. Bronski Beat.................Smalltown Boy

26. Free.......................................Ultra Nate 27. Euphoria..........................Loreen 28. Summer of Love.........Steps 29. Finally................................CeCe Peniston 30. Let’s Have A Kiki.......Scissor Sisters 31. On A Night Like This

.................................................Kylie Minogue 32. Standing in the Way of Control

.................................................The Gossip 33. Same Love...................... Macklemore & Ryan Lewis 34. Thinkin Bout You......Frank Ocean 35. Waiting For Tonight.

.................................................Jennifer Lopez 36. Pynk.....................................Janelle Monae 37. Left Outside Alone...Anastacia 38. Closer..................................Tegan and Sara 39. Touch..................................Shura 40. My House........................Jodie Harsh

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UNIVERSITY AUDIOLOGIC, INC. Deborah Powell, M.S., 1325 Howe Ave., Ste. 101 916-927-3137

HEATING & AIR

PERFECTION HOME SYSTEMS 916-481-0658 www.HotCold.com

HEALTH SERVICES

HOUSING (ELDER)

BADLANDS 2003 K St., 916-441-6823 SacBadlands.com THE DEPOT 2001 K St., Sac, 916-441-6823 TheDepot.net SIDETRAX 2007 K St., 916-441-6823 facebook.com/sidetraxsac

CANNABIS

ABATIN SACRAMENTO www.abatinsacramento.com

CHIROPRACTORS

HEALING TOUCH CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Darrick Lawson, 1919 21st St, Ste. 101, 916-447-3344 www.FixMyBack.com

COUNSELING WEAVE 916-920-2952 (24/7) www.weaveinc.org

DINING/BEVERAGES

SCOTT’S SEAFOOD - ON THE RIVER 916-379-5959 ScottsSeafoodontheRiver.com

22. MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)

.................................................Lil Nas X 23. A Little Bit Of Love.

....................................... RuPaul 24. Spice Up Your Life....Spice Girls 25. Movin On Up................M People

HEARING

BARS / CLUBS

ROXY RESTAURANT & BAR 2381 Fair Oaks Blvd Sacramento, CA 95825 916-489-2000

Movin On Up - M People

JASON LABARTHE Suite 14, 2580 Fair Oaks Blvd., Suite 14, Sac 916-743-8995

WELLS FARGO BANK www.wellsfargo.com

SUNCREST BANK 916-830-3560

ERIC GROVE, DDS KENDALL HOMER, DMD 9216 Kiefer Blvd., STE 5 916-363-9171 • grovehomerdentists.com

41. Black and Gold...........Sam Sparrow 42. “La Vie En Rose..........Grace Jones” 43. LUCID................................Rina Sawayama 44. Professional Widow Remix

.................................................Tori Amos 45. “I Know A Place.........MUNA” 46. Playing With The Boys

.................................................Kenny Loggins 47. The Day After That

.................................................Liza Minnelli 48. What I Need.................. Hayley Kiyoko feat. Kehlani 49. Higher................................VINCINT 50. Hair Looks Fierce.....Amanda Lepore

HAIR DESIGN

CAPITAL CITY AIDS FUND 1912 F Street, 916-448-1110 ONE COMMUNITY HEALTH 1500 21st St., 916-443-3299 onecommunityhealth.com RIVER BEND MEDICAL ASSOC. www.rbmafamilydocs.com

SAFE CREDIT UNION www.safecu.org

DENTISTRY

Waiting For Tonight - Jennifer Lopez

OUTWORD MEDIA 916-329-9280 graphics@outwordmagazine.com

ZOCALO RESTAURANT 916-441-0303 www.experiencezocalo.com

EYEWEAR

STYLEYES 2231 J Street, Ste. 102, Midtown Sacramento 916-448-2220 • www.styleyes.biz

FINANCIAL PLANNING EDWARD JONES INVESTING Kelly Shultz, Financial Advisor 916-896-0428

MIDTOWN FINANCIAL Al Roche, 1750 Creekside Dr. Suite 215, 916-447-9220 MidtownFinancial.net STEELE FINANCIAL PARTNERS Judy Steele, Financial Advisor 916-846-7733

June 24, 2021 - July 8, 2021 • No. 675

MUTUAL HOUSING Lavender Courtyard www.mutualhousing.com/future-communities/lavendercourtyard/

INSURANCE

STATE FARM INSURANCE Ryan Maguire, Agent 916-572-0090 www.ryanmaguire.com

INVESTMENT MGMT. PRINCIPAL SECURITIES INC. Steven J. Wright 9-6-462-9009 Wright.Steve.J@Principal.com

LIBRARIES

FRIENDS OF THE SAC. PUBLIC LIBRARY 8250 Belvedere, Ste. E, 916-731-8493

OPTOMETRY

CAMERON YEE, O.D. 6407 Riverside Blvd., 916-395-0673 DrCameronYee@aol.com

PLUMBING

BONNEY PLUMBING HEATING AND AIR 916-246-6785 www.bonney.com

PEST MANAGEMENT EARTH GUARD PEST SERVICES 916-457-7605 contact@earthguardpest.com

PET SITTING/CARE GRATEFUL DOG 430 17th Street, Sacramento 916-446-2501 gratefuldogdaycare.com LUCKY BUDDY PET CARE 916-505-4375 LuckyBuddyPetCare.com

PHARMACY

PUCCI’S PHARMACY 3257 Folsom Blvd., 916-442-5891 www.puccirx.com

REAL ESTAT E

COLDWELL BANKER Mark T. Peters, 916-341-7794 www.MarkPeters.biz MCMARTIN REALTY Brian McMartin, 916-402-4160 brian@brianmcmartin.com McMartinRealty.com

Outword Magazine 29

The Black Trans Prayer Book: a Documentary

T

ransphobia is rooted in white supremacy. This is what J Mase III & Lady Dane Figueroa Edidi, executive producers of the forthcoming documentary, “The Black Trans Prayer Book,” continuously remind their audiences.

At a recent workshop for Syracuse University, the two went through a timeline of ways that Trans & Non-Binary individuals have been targeted in North America since the 1500’s.

Dane spent some time sharing with the audience a poem for one of her biggest inspirations, Mary Jones, a Black Trans ancestor from the 1800’s that lived in New York City; Mase did a call and response piece that moved the virtual room through a legacy of Black & Brown Trans experiences via the lens of a platypus.

As performers and educators, the two have been skillful at combining a robust stage presence with insightful historical analysis and humor. Having co-edited a book published last year, “The Black Trans Prayer Book,” they have set their sights on producing their first feature length documentary using this text as a framework.

Dane Figueroa Edidi (L) J Mase III (R) photo by Michael J. Eckert

Having launched a GoFundMe to call attention to this daring project as well as raise funds for its completion, these two have begun production. When asked what they imagine this film will do, Dane shared she believes it will, “Help build a world free from oppression.”

While Mase views it as, “the first film of its kind to connect white supremacy to transantagonism, by centering the experiences of Black Trans people.” For more information on The Black Trans Prayer Book: TheBlackTransPrayerBook.org - https://bit.ly/TBTPB

Gaycation Magazine Launches New Travel Show

G

aycation Magazine has launched their brand-new digital travel show, GAYCATION TRAVEL SHOW, hosted by LGBT+ travel expert & YouTube content creator, Ravi Roth.

Named as Gaycities “Best Insta Traveler of 2019” and Metrosource’s “People We Love in 2020,” Roth has trekked the globe, exploring Queer culture in over 32 countries, documenting his travels through his own RAVI ROUND THE WORLD brand.

Each week on Fridays, GAYCATION TRAVEL SHOW will air episodes exclusively through Gaycation Magazine’s official YouTube channel. Viewers will be treated to various experiences based around the people who live in the destinations, and will learn more about the Queer perspective in each city, the best places to stay, eat and explore, as well as what to pack for each location.

The show’s season premiere will kick off in Manhattan with later episodes to feature Brighton, United Kingdom, Vancouver, Tulsa, Orlando, Mount Dora, Brooklyn, Cedar Rapids and Chicago. https://gaycationmagazine.com

Ravi Roth and the Empire State Building

30 Outword Magazine

June 24, 2021 - July 8, 2021 • No. 675

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