SGN January 29, 2010 - Section 1

Issue 05 Volume 38

Celebrating 37 Years!

MORE out to quit p. 4 SEATTLE’S Big One p. 8

YES-Bedazzled p. 34

Seattle Gay News

FRIDAY January 29, 2010 FREE! 25¢ in bookstores & news stands

SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

Obama offers pledge to Cindy McCain says “NO” to hate repeal Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer

however, something or someone comes out to show left-wing tendencies, which is usually cause When you write the Gay news, it for celebration. One of these unis common to research and report – likely events took place on January however begrudgingly – about the antics of the GOP and their rightsee mccain page 20 wing cohorts. Every now and then,

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Cindy McCain throws her support behind the NOH8 campaign

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer

President Barack Obama is urging Congress to repeal the ban on Gays and Lesbians serving openly in the military.

“This year, I will work with Congress and our military to finally repeal the law that denies Gay Americans the right to serve the country they love because of who they are,” Obama said on January 27 during his State of the Union address. “It’s the right thing to do.”

The statement drew a standing ovation from Congress and from Defense Secretary Robert Gates, as Obama became the second president to talk about Gays in a State of the Union address. The first was Bill Clinton in 1999.

The Gay military ban, known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” requires the Defense Department to separate from the armed services any members who engage in or attempt to engage in homosexual acts; state they are homosexual or Bisexual; or marry or attempt to marry a person of the same biological sex. Last year, nearly 400 see DADT page 18

President Obama delivers his first State of the Union address

file photo

Rep. Polis introduces Student SFO Mayor Newsom criticizes Obama Non-Discrimination Act about Gay rights

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

Representative Jared Polis (D-Colo.)

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer

thomas hawk

US Rep. Jared Polis (D-Colo.) introduced legislation on January 27 to protect primary and secondary students from discrimination based on real or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity.

HR 4530 – the Student NonDiscrimination Act (SNDA) – was introduced with 60 bipartisan cosponsors, including Barney Frank (D-Mass.), Tammy Baldwin (DWis.), and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.).

Washington State Democrat Jim McDermott – who represents Seattle, Vashon Island, and parts of Burien and Tukwila – is also a cosponsor.

The bill was referred to the House Education and Labor Committee, of which Polis is a member.

Hearings on the measure have not yet been scheduled.

“The Congress finds the following,” the bill states: “Public school students who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Trans-

San Francisco, California Mayor Gavin Newsom became the latest Democratic official to take a distinctly public jab at President Obama for inaction on Gay rights.

The 42-year-old California Democrat – who recently told New York Times reporter Maureen Dowd his political future was so fuzzy he could, in a couple of years, end San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom up “as the clerk of a wine store” – called by what he’s not done in terms of Obama’s slow movement on sup- rights of Gays and Lesbians. I unport for Gay marriage “fundamen- derstand it tactically in a campaign, tally inexcusable.” but at this point I don’t know.”

“Oh, I can’t get in trouble here,” Newsom told Dowd. “I want him see SNDA page 20 to succeed. But I am very upset see newsom page 19

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Seattle Gay News

January 29, 2010

Celebrating 37 Years!

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January 29, 2010

Seattle Gay News

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Seattle Gay News FOUNDED 1973

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2010

Deadlines Classifieds - Thursday at noon Calendar - Tuesday 6pm Display Ads: Space Reservation - Monday 5pm Ad copy (non-camera ready) - Tues. 5pm Ad copy (camera ready) - Wed. 5pm Letters to the Editor - Tuesday 5pm Obituaries - Call the sGN office All others - Tuesday 5pm

Editor In Chief George Bakan Associate Editor Tom Flint (retired) Editorial Assistant Nick Ardizzone Production William Creswell Calender Editors Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Travel Editor George Bakan Advertising Manager Marty Weisbrod Advertising Department Maggie Bloodstone Executive Assistant Mike Andrew Staff Writers George Bakan, Albert S. Rodriguez, Nick Ardizzone, Shaun Knittel Miryam Gordon, James Whitely, Tim Peter

Contributing Writers

Rev. Barbara Allen, Mike Andrew, Eric Andrews-Katz, Madelyn Arnold, Maggie Bloodstone, Beau Burriola, Jessica Davis, Ron Anders, Jessica Price, Milton W. Hamlin, Nevin Jefferson, Keen News Service, Jason A. Miller, Liz Meyer, Rod Parke, Don Paulson, Scott Rice, Leslie Robinson, Richard Kennedy, Romeo San Vicente, Rex Wockner

Classifieds Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Photographers Nick Ardizzone, Joseph P. Herron, Shaun Knittel, James Whitely National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 Website Designer Barry Thorsness/Digital Team Works Seattle Gay News is published weekly by JT&A, Inc. © 2010, JT&A, Inc., all rights reserved. Reprints by permission.

Publication of names, photographs or likenesses of any person, organization, event or business in this publication cannot be taken as any indication of the sexual orientation of the person, organization, event or business.

Opinions expressed in bylined articles, columns, and letters are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff or management of this paper.

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It is our policy that no money shall be refunded if you choose to cancel your subscription or ad. However, credit towards any size ad will be given for the balance owed. No exceptions.

Getting through “THE PROGRAM” – Week 4

by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer It is absolutely inconceivable to me how I would cope with stress without cigarettes.

Whenever I am given bad news, whenever I feel as if I’ve failed, whenever I need to rethink a plan, lighting a cigarette is as natural to me as keeping the sun on my face and the wind at my back. But somehow, I’m going to have to learn and I’m going to have to draw the willpower from within myself to resist smoking.

This week’s meeting opened up with each member of the group talking about how they had fought cravings and resisted certain cigarettes during the week. For most of the group, breaking up their routines was one of the most effective means of cutting down.

One member essentially “combined” his cigarettes – i.e., instead of smoking a cigarette on the way to work and when he got to work, he made a conscious effort to cut out the first and simply wait until he got to work to smoke. Doing this throughout the day, he was able to cut his daily cigarette intake in half.

It seems to me that this is easy, or at least easier than quitting altogether. I’m tapering, too – most members of the group are. I’ve tapered many times, usually without the intention of quitting. Typically, I’ve cut down

In Loving Memory Of Steve Foiles, Scott Roger Alpert, Cookie Andrews-Hunt, James Leland Moore, Randy Peters, Lee Richeson, Shaun Shelton, Jim Tully, James Arnold

4

Seattle Gay News

January 29, 2010

my intake, but eventually I’ll just say “fuck it” and stop counting my cigarettes.

The group began talking about various strategies and tactics we could use to fight cravings. After a whiteboard was completely filled with ideas, Lark popped the question: “Are we ready to select our quit date?”

Lark pitched February 10 and presented us with a taperingdown key. After a bit of intense discussion, he asked the group formally if February 10 was acceptable.

I was the first to raise my hand in agreement and when the other hands joined mine, February 10 it was.

I’ve given a lot of thought to why I referred to Gay City’s Out to Quit as “The Program” in my initial column. It’s because I knew it would be hard – and it is – but “The Program” carries with it a negative connotation. No one forced me into”The Program;” I chose to undertake it. The staff of Gay City are not administrators of a program that is to be feared – or maybe they are, because fac-

ing quitting head-on is very scary.

It is equivalent to making any huge life change, like ending a relationship or taking a new job far away from home – both of which I have done, and both of which have left me changed forever.

We’ve created individualized strategies and tactics to help us fight urges based on our smoking habits and our triggers.

I’ve come up with four primary strategies.

Here they are: First, I’ve designated the porch in my apartment as a no-smoking area. It’s easy for me to simply open a door to light up; however when I have to put my clothes on and head to the roof, I give smoking a second thought.

Second, I’ve decided not to bring my cigarettes out of my house, period. I’ve decide that if I really want a cigarette while I’m at work, out with friends or elsewhere, I’ll have to buy a single cigarette. This is a strategy I’ve used to taper down many times.

Third, I’ve decided to always wait at least 10 minutes whenever I get a craving in the hopes that it will pass.

Fourth, I’ve asked my girlfriend Katie, whom I live with, not to do any housework, dishes, laundry, nothing. Needless to say, she’s pleased. Cleaning can be very therapeutic for me. It’s simple and keeps me distracted.

The more work I have to do, the more I have to distract me from smoking.

I’ve come up with various tactics I can use as well, like cutting down on caffeine and running to the gym for a quick workout when I get cravings.

These strategies and tactics leave every cigarette but one covered: the morning cigarette. I can think of nothing to distract me, nothing I can use to resist this cigarette. The only way I can see to cut it is to make it the last one I cut out in my tapering process, which began yesterday, on January 27, and goes through February 10, the day of my last cigarette.

Day one was a success. I’ll be tapering down from six to zero, with February 11 being my first day without a cigarette. Here’s how many cigarettes I’ll be smoking daily using my plan: 6, 6, 5, 5, 5, 4, 4, 4, 3, 3, 3, 1, 1, 1, 1, 0. The idea of skipping two is my own. My hope is that if I can make a leap right before I quit, it will give me the audacity to go from one to zero.

Gay City has set me up for success. Up until now, we’ve only discussed quitting; now the process has begun.

It is equivalent to making any huge life change, like ending a relationship or taking a new job far away from home – both of which I have done, and both of which have left me changed forever.

Celebrating 37 Years!

ACT UP 2.0 FORMING

Rex, Thanks again for reaching out to us!

Here’s a note from me and Robin about the retreat…

Over the last year and a half, we have met some incredible folks in California in the aftermath of Prop 8 and nationally through our work on the National Equality March.

Since the march last October, we have continued building on those relationships and discussing strategies to move forward in the struggle for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer rights.

Over the last four days we gathered at the historic Highlander Center in Tennessee with 45 activists from across the country who are sick of delays, compromises and excuses. Some who joined us have been activists for many years; some are new to the movement – all brought a vast depth of knowledge and a readiness to fight for a more just and equal world for all. Some have worked on national LGBTQ issues, such as ACT UP, Equality Across America and Join the Impact; some were connected to organizations outside of LGBTQ rights, such as PETA, Presente.org, Unite Here, Colorofchange.org, Greenpeace, etc. In our outreach we purposefully looked for those who were supporting and advocating for LGBTQ working people, communities of

Robin McGehee and Kip Williams

PROP 8 TRIAL UPDATE: Testimony in Gay trial wraps up

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer The Proposition 8 trial, Perry v.

Schwarzenegger, the federal case challenging California’s ban on same-sex marriage, ended on January 27. The trial provided an unprecedented glimpse into the social conflict over whether Gay and Lesbian couples have the right to marry, and served as the first stage of a prolonged legal battle that all sides insist is destined for the U.S. Supreme Court.

Not surprisingly, both foes and supporters

of Proposition 8 came away convinced they had won. However, there are still a few loose ends in the case before Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughan Walker decides the legality of Proposition 8, which was approved by voters in 2008. The two sides have a month to file legal briefs.

Walker, who will decide the case without a jury, said he will set a date for closing arguments after reviewing the evidence.

Walker is expected to take several weeks to review the evidence in the case before hearing closing arguments, which are expected sometime in March.

Advocate says – SFO not among Gayest cities – but Seattle is for sure

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer

For over 30 years, if you came across a survey of the nation’s “Gayest” cities, you would naturally see San Francisco, California at the top. Well, not anymore. According to The Advocate’s newly released “Gayest Cities in America” list, not only does San Francisco not make the top slot, it isn’t even on the list to begin with. Fear not, Seattleites, the Emerald City rests at number 10 of 15 as one of the “Gayest Cities in America.”

But then again, we already knew Seattle is one of America’s Gayest cities, didn’t we?

The author of the self-declared “arbitrary” survey, Mike Albo, set out to deliberately identify cities that are becoming Gay epicenters (as opposed to San Francisco and New York City, which proved themselves in that regard some time ago).

“Long ago, Gay people settled in our nation’s largest cities. There they spruced up

all the property, created every art and fashion movement, and taught entire populations how to dance. They created Gayborhoods like WeHo, Chelsea, South Beach – and pretty much Queered all of San Francisco until even Laundromats had rainbow flag decals in their windows,” writes Albo.

“About 10 years ago, everyone else moved back into these nicely gentrified metropolises, and the lavender diaspora began.”

In order to compile his list, Albo used a point system to measure same-sex couple households per capita, statewide marriage equality, Gay elected officials, Gay dating and hookup profiles per single male population, Gay bars per capita, cruising spots per capita, and Gay films in Netflix favorites.

Again, Albo admits his list is “completely unscientific,” but says it is an “accurate statistical equation.”

The list of cities is surprising and entertaining all at once. Although you can find an L or a G and some BTQs anywhere, I never

Visit us online www.sgn.org

james whitely

The following is an e-mail response to veteran Gay journalist Rex Wockner, which Wockner shared on his “Newsclips” mailing list:

color, and Trans rights.

We had one thing on our agenda: Discuss ways to build a national network of activists to demand full equality now. We believe that it is time to escalate our demands through coordinated nationwide nonviolent direct action, and we hope to build a broad base of organizers to work with all who struggle for justice and dignity in their lives.

We know that many people across the country feel the same way, and that many have been actively working within their own communities for a long time. The Highlander Center can comfortably accommodate about 35 people, and we broke those limits because we wanted more people to participate in the conversation. We had no secrets, only limited space and resources, and a very short time to organize this retreat. We wish we could have invited thousands.

We want to work with everyone to help inspire our community to bold action. We want to be what Kate Bornstein described as “an unpredictable outspoken force,” and we want everyone at the table – no matter the sex, gender, race, class, look, age, ability, religion, family status, citizenship, class, and everything in between. We want to make the White House and Congress take notice. And we want everyone who stands in the way of full equality to be held accountable and wonder what just hit them.

We wish every voice could have been present at the Highlander Center this week, but that was neither a beginning or an end to the conversation....

With hope and love,

Café Metropolitain fundraiser benefits Lambert House

Guest of honor Regine Dynasty, former Mr. Gay Seattle XXXI

by James Whitely SGN Contributing Writer Regine Dynasty fundraiser January 23 Café Metropolitain On January 23, Café Metropolitain held a fundraiser for the Lambert House. On average, the Capitol Hill bar puts on 2-3 fundraisers per month for the Lambert House.

The fundraiser, a birthday party for Regine Dynasty, formerly known simply as Dynasty or Mr. Gay Seattle XXXI, featured 10 stellar drag performances, most of which involved contestants for the upcoming February 20 Nubian Pride Pageant. The party was intimate, fun, and the drag was top-notch.

For her “12th” birthday, Dynasty performed three times. Dynasty’s first performance, “Celebration” by Madonna, was cut short as the track began skipping. “You’re too damn hot!” yelled someone in the audience.

“I’ve always been passionate about helping the youth, Gay or straight, because I was a foster child,” Dynasty told SGN. “And I think if you have a gift, you should share it.” For Dynasty, the choice of holding her birthday as a youth fundraiser was no choice at all. “Jell-O shots for the kids!” she exclaimed – as a fundraiser for the kids, of course.

What made the show especially notable were the variety of music styles and the span would have guessed that some of these cities could make any list – let alone one of the “Gayest Cities in America.” But they did.

So, here they are, Seattle, the 15 top new places to look for prime Gayborhood realestate, according to The Advocate: 1) Atlanta, Georgia 2) Burlington, Vermont 3) Iowa City, Iowa 4) Bloomington, Indiana 5) Madison, Wisconsin 6) New Orleans, Louisiana 7) Fort Lauderdale, Florida 8) Portland, Maine 9) Austin, Texas 10) Seattle, Washington 11) Gainesville, Florida 12) Asheville, North Carolina 13) Springfield, Massachusetts 14) San Diego, California 15) Albuquerque, New Mexico Here’s what Albo had to say about his number-one pick: Atlanta, Georgia.

“Georgia isn’t the most Gay-friendly state, but Atlanta is undoubtedly our Gayest city – with 29 Gay bars here, there’s a reason it’s dubbed Hotlanta. Atlanta’s several Queer events include one of the nation’s largest Prides in October (returning to Piedmont Park this year), and MondoHomo, a May event celebrating art, drag, burlesque, film, and BBQ. The Gay epicenter

January 29, 2010

of the decades from which they came.

SGN spoke with Ken Shulman, the executive director of the Lambert House, about the work that Quyen Luu, the owner of Café Metropolitain, continually does for the organization.

“The work that Quyen does fundraising is a part of his board work. He has been on the board for 15 years, making him the longest-serving board member in the Lambert House’s history,” Shulman told SGN. “He joined the board when he was a program participant, he was 19, I think.”

Shulman says that Luu is one of many testaments to how important the Lambert House is in the lives of the youth that it serves. Luu currently serves as vice president of the Lambert House’s board of directors.

The Lambert House began in 1981 as the Association of Gay and Lesbian Youth Advocates. For its first 10 years, it met in local churches and community spaces until it found its current home in 1991.

In 2009, the Lambert House served 547 youth, who received about 17,000 hours of direct service through more than 20 different programs. For more information on the Lambert House, or to make a donation, visit www.lamberthouse.org.

For more information on the Nubian Pride Pageant and to buy tickets, visit www. brownpapertickets.com/event/91388. is Midtown, anchored by Outwrite Books, a giant Gay bookstore bucking the national trend – by staying in business! Atlanta guys are hunky, the ladies are gracious, the Gay sports leagues are seriously well-organized, and its housewives (and their Gay BFFs, complete with handbags and heels) are now camp icons. And who doesn’t love the sweet lilt of a Georgia accent on a knockout guy or gal?”

OK, so we didn’t make number one, but Albo included Seattle on this list, and rightly so. Here’s what the writer had to say about his number 10, the Pacific Northwest’s Gayest city: “The birthplace of grunge and upscale coffee, and home to numerous cute bois and dykes with piercings, Seattle has a Gay scene that’s so comfortably inescapable as the Space Needle. Even as luxury condos and pricey wine bars sprout up, alternative venues like the newly renovated Pony in Cap Hill are keeping it real.”

Albo prefaces his list by pointing out the reality that Gays are moving into mainstream America. “These cities where everyday Gays live – towns and boroughs with a mix of baby carriages, Gay bars, and B&Bs – signal the continuing movement of Gay people into mainstream American life, which in turn also signals an eventual end to lists like this,” he said. “In 10 years or so, every Main Street USA will probably be too Gay to measure. Won’t that be nice?”

Seattle Gay News

5

Moscow mayor will ban Pride in 2010 LGBT activists promise to march anyway

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

Anonymous

Moscow mayor Yuri Luzhkov told a January 23 education conference he would never allow a Gay Pride parade in his city.

“A Gay parade … cannot be called anything but a Satanic act,” he said. “We haven’t permitted such a parade and we won’t permit it in the future. Everyone needs to accept this as an axiom.”

“It’s high time we stop messing around with talk about human rights, and bring to bear on them the full force and justice of the law,” he added. “We need a social whip or something like that, not a liberal ginger cake.”

Gay activist Nikolai Alekseev told reporters that the 2010 Gay Pride parade will go ahead despite the ban.

“We don’t plan to make any changes. We still plan to hold a Gay parade on May 29,” Alekseev said.

“There was nothing in Luzhkov’s speech that we haven’t heard before,” Alekseev added. “All the same medieval and homophobic rhetoric, under the obscurantist sauce.”

According to Alekseev, Moscow’s LGBT community will rely on the protection of international law.

“Our axiom is much stronger than Luzhkov’s because ours is based on the law and the European Convention on Human Rights,” he said.

Moscow’s Pride parade has been officially banned since it was first organized by Alekseev in 2006. The 2006, 2007, and 2008 parades were all disrupted by anti-Gay attacks launched by a coalition of neo-Nazis, Russian nationalists, and Russian Muslim groups.

The first “Slavic Pride” took place in

2009, with Belarusians joining the Moscow march. British activists Peter Tatchell and Andy Thayer also traveled to Moscow to participate.

While parade organizers avoided confrontation with anti-Gay gangs by changing the parade route at the last minute, 20 LGBT activists, including Alekseev and Tatchell, were arrested by Moscow police.

The arrests turned into a public relations disaster for Luzhkov and the Russian government, since at the time Moscow was full of international media covering the Eurovision music contest finals.

A complaint based on these arrests and the previous bans will be heard next month by the European Court of Human Rights. As a member state of the Council of Europe, Russia will be bound by the court’s decision.

Russia has until February 20 to respond to the complaint.

Slavic Pride 2010 will take place on May 15 in Minsk, Belarus, and Moscow Pride is scheduled for May 29.

Like many former Communists, Yuri Luzhkov flipped to extreme traditionalist views after the collapse of the former Soviet Union. He is on friendly terms with the Russian Orthodox hierarchy, and in 2005 won an award from the Orthodox International Fund of Unity.

Nikolai Alekseev is currently lead organizer of Moscow Pride and the head of the Russian LGBT Rights Project.

He was expelled from Moscow State University in 2001 when the postgraduate program refused to accept his work on sexual minorities in Russia as valid scientific research. He published the material as a book – Legal Regulation of the Status of Sexual Minorities: Russia in the Light of International Organisations’ Practice and Legislation of Other Countries – in 2002.

2009 Moscow Pride participants defying a mayoral ban were arrested by riot police

NATIONAL

NEWS

Lambda sues feds over spousal benefits Lambda Legal sued the federal government in U.S. District Court in San Francisco January 20, seeking to force the U.S. Office of Personnel Management to obey rulings

by Judge Alex Kozinski of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that awarded spousal health-insurance benefits to a 9th Circuit employee, lawyer Karen Golinski.

Last January, Kozinski ruled that denying Golinski spousal health insurance for her wife, Amy Cunninghis, was illegal discrimination. He ordered the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts to submit Golinski’s health-benefits election form to her insurer, Blue Cross/Blue Shield.

OPM then instructed Blue Cross not to comply.

“It’s a bit shocking that we’ve reached this point with the Obama administration,” said Lambda attorney Jennifer Pizer. “Where is our ‘fierce advocate’ for LGBT rights?”

Kozinski issued another ruling in Novem-

by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer ber asserting that he has authority – under the 9th Circuit’s Employment Dispute Resolution Plan and the U.S. Constitution’s separation-of-powers doctrine – to interpret laws governing the rights of judicial employees.

He gave OPM 30 days to comply with, or appeal, his original order.

OPM did neither and instead issued a press release saying Kozinski’s order was not binding and that the U.S. Department of Justice had advised OPM not to comply with it because of the Defense of Marriage Act, a Clinton-era federal law that bars the U.S. government from recognizing Gay marriages.

Kozinski then declared that his rulings against OPM were conclusive and binding.

The lawsuit asks the federal district court to order OPM to rescind its instruction to Blue Cross/Blue Shield not to enroll Cunninghis in Golinski’s family health insurance plan.

Malawi couple appeals to Constitutional Court INTERNATIONAL

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

The couple arrested in Malawi and charged with “gross indecency” after their December 28 wedding appealed to the country’s Constitutional Court to hear their case.

Tiwonge Chimbalanga, 20, and Steven Monjeza, 26, were arrested and charged under a Malawian law forbidding homosexuality. If convicted, they face up to 14 years in prison.

The case is complicated by the fact that Chimbalanga identifies as a woman and is known among her neighbors as Auntie Tiwonge.

“Our argument is that the penal code under which our clients were charged is unconstitutional as it is against the spirit of the constitution,” Mauya Msuku, attorney for the couple, told a packed courtroom.

He said his clients had a constitutional right to “privacy, dignity, belief, conscience and self-expression.”

Msuku, who has been hired by Malawi’s underground Gay rights group Centre for the Development of People, said his clients “cannot be discriminated against, even on the basis of sexual orientation.”

He argued that laws banning homosexuality “violate the right to marry and find a family.”

The judge hearing their case insisted on proceeding with their trial, until the Constitutional Court decides whether to accept their appeal.

Magistrate Nyakwawa Usiwa-Usiwa began hearing witnesses brought by prosecutors, who asked sometimes lurid questions about Chimbalanga’s gender identity.

In the following quotes, all pronouns are 6

Seattle Gay News

those originally used by the speaker.

Monjeza’s brother Egbert Monjeza testified that he considered Chimbalanga a man.

“A woman has breasts. Aunt Tiwonge’s chest is flat, a woman’s bosom is wide, hers is flat,” he said.

Asked by defense attorney Msuku how breasts of a 20-year-old should look, Monjeza answered, “They have to be plump so that any man who fondles them would turn libidinous.”

At that, observers in the courtroom burst out laughing.

Raphael Phodi, pastor at the church where the couple met, testified that he had questions about Chimbalanga’s gender, but accepted her as a woman.

“I accepted them as a married couple and recognized Tiwonge as a dedicated member of the Women’s Guild,” he said. “I had my doubts, but who was I to judge whether he was a woman or not?”

Another witness, Jean Kamphale, a lodge owner who employed Chimbalanga as a housekeeper, said that after the wedding ceremony she forced her to undress to determine her gender.

“I had to organize women workers and we asked him to undress. We were all shocked to learn that he was a man, complete with male organs,” Kamphale said.

Meanwhile, Chimbalanga’s uncle, identified as a “village headman,” told reporters that his niece had always identified as a woman.

“Tiwonge was born a man but he has always shocked us with his feminine behavior,” the uncle said. “He walks, talks and dresses like a woman. This has always been embarrassing to us and people have been accusing us of having bewitched him.”

January 29, 2010

NEWS

Russian marriage case headed to Euro Court The Moscow City Court on January 21 upheld a lower-court decision supporting the city’s refusal to give a marriage license to a Lesbian couple.

Irina Fedotova-Fet and Irina Shipitko, who later traveled to Canada and got married, said they now will appeal the case to the European Court of Human Rights.

The couple also plan to demand that Russia recognize their Canadian marriage as soon as they receive their marriage certificate from Toronto.

Portuguese support same-sex marriage, by a smidge Fifty-two percent of Portuguese support legalization of same-sex marriage, according to a new Eurosondagem poll for Rádio Renascença, SIC TV and the Expresso newspaper.

Parliament voted 125-92 to legalize same-sex marriage on January 8. Barring unexpected complications, the first Gay weddings will take place in April or shortly thereafter.

The bill that legalized same-sex marriage specifically excluded access to adoption for married same-sex couples.

The Eurosondagem poll quizzed 1,010 people by telephone from January 7 to 12.

Forty-three percent said they oppose samesex marriage.

Same-sex marriage also is legal in Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway,

With assistance from Bill Kelley

by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer South Africa, Spain and Sweden; in Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego province; and in the U.S. states of Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont. It will become legal in March in Washington, D.C., and Mexico City.

Belarus Gay picketers lose appeal Belarus’ Minsk City Court on January 19 dismissed the appeal of two Gay activists who were fined for picketing the Iranian Embassy to protest Iran’s treatment of Gay people.

Sergey Androsenko and Sergey Pravdin said they will appeal the latest ruling to the UN Human Rights Committee in Geneva.

“The decision which found me guilty of organizing an unsanctioned event violates my right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly guaranteed by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which Belarus ratified,” Androsenko said.

He added that his fine – $307 – was unusually harsh for nations of the former Soviet Union, equaling one month’s worth of his salary.

Androsenko said he and two others staged the December picket because “the world can’t hear the voice of Iranian Gays, who are being executed.”

“We, activists of LGBT movement, have to become this voice,” he said.

With assistance from Bill Kelley

Celebrating 37 Years!

NORTHWEST

NEWS

compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer

CALL FOR ARTISTS – SOUND TRANSIT ON BROADWAY An open call for professional artists.

Sound Transit needs someone to act as the lead artist in overseeing projects that will be created by a variety of artists for the construction wall surrounding the light rail construction site on Capitol Hill. Make the fence surrounding a block of the Broadway neighborhood active, interesting and relevant! $10,000 budget, duration 20102014. Deadline for entry is Monday, February 8. Work begins February 2010. See application website for details on eligibility and how to apply. www.soundtransit.org/ Projects-and-Plans/Projects-By-Service/ STart-Public-Art-Program/Call-for-Artists/ Capitol-Hill-Construction-Wall-Lead-Artist.xml “BLAZING HABITS” – A SISTER HOEDOWN TO BENEFIT NW NETWORK On Friday, January 29, from 8-11 p.m., join the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, the Abbey of St. Joan, and the Rain Country Dance Association, for a “goll-durn kneeslappin’, two-steppin’ hoedown” at The Cuff Complex, 1533 13th Ave., at E. Pine St., to “rustle up a fistful of dollars” for the Northwest Network of Bi, Trans, Lesbian and Gay Survivors of Abuse. “It’s pesos for prancin’, sawbucks for swingin’ and dollars for dancin’ with your favorite fillies.” Plus a fundraising raffle. www.theabbey.org; www.nwnetwork.org.

MISS INDIGO BLUE’S ACADEMY OF BURLESQUE – INAUGURAL ALUMNI SPECTACULAR On Friday, January 29, at 9 p.m., at West Hall, OddFellows Building, 915 E. Pine St., 2nd Fl., Miss Indigo Blue’s Academy of Burlesque presents a new monthly event: The Alumni Spectacular! The academy has produced a bevy of talent over the years, and this event will showcase a sampling of graduates. From nubile newbies to seasoned starlets, there’s a little something for everyone!

The inaugural show will star The Shanghai Pearl, Polly Wood, and Waxie Moon, and feature talented grads: Verilee Faux, VaGina Velvet, Honey Moon, Ultra Vixen, Bella Bijoux, Lolita “Tatas” Valentino and Hottie McNaughty. The inaugural event will be hosted by the academy’s headmistress, Miss Indigo Blue. Tickets are $10 if purchased from a performer, $12 advance at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/95862, $15 at the door.

WA DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP LAW: WHAT COUPLES SHOULD KNOW On Saturday, January 30, from 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Bainbridge Public Library, 1270 Madison Ave. N., Bainbridge Island, Bainbridge attorney Elizabeth M. Dronkert, will discuss, from a legal perspective, the personal and property implications of being registered as Washington Domestic Partners, the immediate legal effect of registering or being registered given Referendum 71’s passage, and what crucial self-help actions couples might take either proactively or, if registered, retroactively to compensate for shortcomings in the state’s boilerplate registration forms. Time will also be allowed for question. This event is FREE and open to the public. For more information, call 206-780-4455.

3RD ANNUAL INCLEMENT SPRINT 5K RUN/WALK AT GREEN LAKE On Sunday, January 31, Safe Schools Coalition and Delta Lambda Phi (the University of Washington’s Psi Chapter) hosts a 5K run/walk at Greenlake, 7:45-8:45 a.m. registration; 9 a.m. run/walk, starting at the southwest corner of Green Lake behind the

crew stadium, to benefit their organizations. $10 registration fee. www.inclementsprint. com; www.safeschoolscoalition.org; www. dlp.org. Delta Lambda Phi is the national fraternity of Gay, Bisexual, and progressive men.

NORTHWEST FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW AT WASHINGTON STATE CONVENTION & TRADE CENTER The rich tradition of the Northwest Flower & Garden Show returns February 3-7 at the Washington State Convention and Trade Center. “Beauty and Functionality” is the theme of the 22nd annual event. The talents of the region’s top garden creators will be on display in 23 eye-popping, full size gardens. Lighted for dramatic effect, many of these gardens integrate sustainable features with thousands of flowers as well as edible gardening displays. The show also features a line-up of internationally-known speakers in over 120 hours of seminars, container gardens, floral display competitions, shopping in the “Marketplace” area and activities for the entire family. New to the show is the “Butterfly House” exhibit which will include over 300 live butterflies. Advance tickets are available through Feb. 2 for $16 (normally $20 at the door). Children 12 and under admitted free to the show when accompanied by an adult. Visit www.gardenshow.com for a complete listing of over 75 nurseries serving as advance ticket sale locations and for more information.

SEATTLE GAY & LESBIAN BOOK CLUB AT DUNSHEE HOUSE The Seattle Gay & Lesbian Book Club meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Dunshee House, 303 17th Ave. E. at E. Thomas St. The club is pleased to announce the following titles to be discussed in their ongoing reading and discussion series: February – A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood. All GLBTQ folks in the community are welcome to participate in this free book club.

The reading list is chosen and the discussion facilitated by Nick DiMartino, published novelist and playwright, currently a book reviewer for ShelfAwareness.com, and a 30year employee of University Book Store.

For more information, email nickdimartin@ earthlink.net or contact Dunshee House at 206-322-2437.

FREE RÉSUMÉ AND JOB SEARCH WORKSHOPS South Seattle Community College’s WorkSource Center is partnering with the Seattle Public Library to offer résumé and job search workshops at the downtown Central Library, 1000 Fourth Ave., Room 4 on Level 4. The one-hour workshops are conveniently scheduled on weekdays and Saturdays. No registration is required, but seating may be limited. For more information, contact the Seattle Public Library at 206-386-4636, www.spl.org, or South Seattle Community College WorkSource at 206-764-5304, www.southseattle.edu.

AGE 55+ JOB SEARCH WORKSHOPS Jobless? Discouraged because of age bias?

Don’t worry – help is available at the Mayor’s Office of Senior Citizens Age 55+ Job Search Workshops, now offered quarterly.

Workshops will be held on Thursdays, February 4, May 13, August 12 and November 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. Job counselors from the Mayor’s Office for Senior Citizens’ Age 55+ Employment Resource Center will discuss job coaching, job-related computer training classes, a job list, web site and other services. Eligible low-income job seekers living in Seattle-King County will learn about the Title V Senior Community Service Employment Program. Job counselors will also review the Mayor’s Office for Senior Citizens one-stop core services and resources. The Job Search Workshop is open to jobseekers age 55+ who are Seattle-King

Visit us online www.sgn.org

County residents. The Age 55+ Employment Resource Center is a program of the Mayor’s Office for Senior Citizens, which promotes healthy aging, independent living, and social and civic engagement for mature adults. For more information, call 206-6840500, email seniors@seattle.gov or go to www.seattle.gov/seniors on the web.

“MAKING OUR COMMUNITY COUNT” – A COMMUNITY FORUM ON THE 2010 US CENSUS The League of Women Voters hosts their next monthly forum on Thursday, February 4, at Seattle First Baptist Church, 1111 Harvard Ave. at E. Seneca St., 7-9 p.m. The topic of this month’s forum is the 2010 US Census. The US Census Bureau aims to count every individual living in the US by April 1, 2010.

Census information is used to allocate more than $400 billion in federal funds for health care, education and other services; that translates to a per person allotment of $1,144.98 using 2007 figures. The census also determines how we are represented in local, state and national government.

Local partners and leaders are necessary in order to achieve a 100% response rate.

Forum guest speaker Linh Ngo with the Community Leadership Foundation will show how they are reaching out to likely undercounted groups and how additional volunteers can join in to help make the 2010 count 100%.

All League forums are FREE and open to the public. For more information, call the League office at 206-329-4848 or visit online at www.seattlelwv.org.

SISTERS ORGANIZE FOR SURVIVAL Sisters Organize for Survival is working on a campaign to save the WA State Basic Health Plan. Upcoming meetings are scheduled for Thursdays, February 4, and February 25 at 7 p.m., at New Freeway Hall, 5018 Rainier Ave. S. Everyone welcome. Wheelchair accessible. For more information, call 206-722-6057 or email rwseattle@mindspring.com.

GAY CITY SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR RESOURCE & REFERRAL LINE AND LGBT LIBRARY Gay City Health Project’s newest program needs your help! They have taken charge of the 323-LGBT community resource line and need your help to make it successful! Some duties include answering phones, connecting people to resources, updating material for their records, checking out books and reshelving. If you are interested, please contact Susan at 206-388-1707 or email her at susan@gaycity.org.

2010 SPRING SEATTLE POLICE DEPARTMENT COMMUNITY POLICE ACADEMY The Community Police Academy is a 10-week program designed to educate the public in the operations of the Seattle Police Department, while also giving the Department a chance to obtain valuable feedback from the community. The purpose of the Community Police Academy is to increase understanding between the Seattle Police Department and the community members of Seattle through education and interaction.

Community participants will become familiar with various facets of the Seattle Police Department and gain insight into law enforcement’s role in the criminal justice system and the daily work of police employees. With increased understanding, Seattle’s community and police can work together and achieve realistic solutions to neighborhood problems relating to crime, fear of crime, and neighborhood decay. It is hoped that increasing community awareness will respond to some of the myths and images of law enforcement and provide a realistic view of police procedures.

If you are interested in applying, please visit www.cityofseattle.net/police/programs/policeacademy/default.htm and scroll down for the application and mailing instructions. Be sure to include a copy of your Driver’s License. Space is limited and applications are processed on a first come,

January 29, 2010

first served basis. The application deadline is Friday, February 5. If you have any questions, please contact Tony Ramsey at 206-684-5758 or Margaret Olsen at 206684-8672 or email Margaret.olsen@seattle. gov.

MARDIS GRAS RAINBOW BINGO IN WEST SEATTLE On Friday, February 5, Senior Center West Seattle, 4217 SW Oregon St., invites the community to a Rainbow Bingo fundraiser with a Mardi Gras theme. Doors at 5:30 p.m., live music by the Flip Flops along with food and beverage service at 6 p.m., bingo games with drag queens from 7-10 p.m. Prizes of colorful filled baskets and elaborate gift certificates plus auction, split the pot, etc. Tickets: $15 advance at 206-932-4044 or $20 at the door.

SEATTLE OTTERS 14TH INTERNATIONAL OPEN WATER POLO TOURNEY The tourney will be held February 5-7 at the Weyerhauser King County Aquatic Center, 650 SW Campus Dr., Federal Way. For complete information, visit www.otterpolo. com/tourney/.

SEATTLE CENTER FESTAL: TET FESTIVAL USHERS IN YEAR OF THE TIGER The region’s Vietnamese community comes together at Seattle Center Festal: Tet Festival to usher in the Year of the Tiger, on Saturday, February 6 and Sunday, February 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Seattle Center’s Center House.

The annual Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebration, Vietnam’s most popular holiday, welcomes the return of spring and chases out evil spirits with the traditional roaring lion dance and the crackle of firecrackers.

The 2010 Tet Festival showcases Vietnam’s rich and colorful heritage and features professional performers as well as talented local artists, plus workshops, cooking demonstrations and a Regions of Vietnam Fashion Show. For a full event schedule, visit www. tetinseattle.org.

IMPERIAL COURT OF SEATTLE PRESENTS CORONATION 2010 – “THE PRESIDENT’S BALL: A STAR-SPANGLED AFFAIR” The Imperial Sovereign Court of Seattle presents Coronation 2010 – “The President’s Ball: A Star-Spangled Affair” on Saturday, February 13. The gala affair, which includes a complete dinner, will be held at the Seattle Renaissance Hotel, 515 Madison St., starting at 5 p.m. Tickets for the Coronation Ball are $55.

As a prelude to Coronation, on Thursday, February 11, the Court presents the Denver/ Salt Lake Show, 7 p.m., at Neighbours, 1509 Broadway, entrance in alley off E. Pike St., with fine drag entertainment performed by visiting dignitaries from the Imperial Courts of Denver and Salt Lake City, in town for Coronation.

On Friday, February 12, the Court presents the Out of Town Show, 7 p.m., at Neighbours, with fine drag entertainment performed by visiting dignitaries from Imperial Courts in the Northwest region outside of Seattle.

A Victory Brunch celebrating Seattle’s new reigning monarchs will be held on Sunday, February 14, at 10:30 a.m., at the Seattle Renaissance Hotel.

For more information, visit www.imperialcourtofseattle.com.

CALLING ALL QUEER AND TRANS YOUTH: QUEER YOUTH SPACE IN SEATTLE – HELP MAKE IT HAPPEN! On Saturday, February 20, from 3-6 p.m, come imagine and shape Queer Youth Space in Seattle at the “Queer Youth Mutiny” meeting at Seattle Central Community College, 1701 Broadway, Room BE1110. Bring your voice, your politics, and your perspective and help create a space or spaces for Queer youth, led by youth. www. queeryouthspace.com.

Seattle Gay News

7

Earthquake in the Emerald City Living and surviving on the Seattle Fault

most extensive fault in the Pacific Northwest area. It surfaces about 50 miles offshore along the coasts of British Columbia, Washington, Oregon and Northern CaliforOn January 12, the island nation of Haiti, nia. an already underdeveloped country ravThe second source for damaging earthaged by corrupt governing and a depleted quakes is the Benioff Zone. This zone is economy, was brought to the brink of catathe continuation of the extensive faulting strophic ruin by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake. that results as the subducting plate is forced Within the hour, images of crumbled buildinto the upper mantle. ings, streets lined The Benioff Zone can with dead bodies, and probably produce scenes of chaos were magnitudes as large broadcast worldwide. as 7.5. Benioff Zone Even now, two weeks earthquakes are deepand at least 52 afterer than 18 miles. shocks later, the death The third source toll continues to rise. consists of shallow Currently, there are crustal earthquake an estimated 200,000 activity, one mile fatalities. beneath the surface, Haiti isn’t unique within the North in the destruction American continental that follows an earthplate where faulting is quake. Since 2001, extensive. Past earthmany nations have quakes have revealed lost both lives and many shallow fault infrastructure to the structures, including quake. From a 7.7 the Western Rainier magnitude (M) 2001 Seismic Zone and the earthquake in GuMt. St. Helens Seisjarat, India (20,085 mic Zone. The bestfatalities) to a 7.6 M known crustal fault 2005 Kashmir, Pakiis the Seattle Fault, stan earthquake, one which runs east-west truth emerges: When through Seattle from the earth quakes badIssaquah to Bremerly, buildings will fall, ton. and people will die.

The Seattle Office Upon processing of Emergency Manthe images of such The Cadillac Hotel in Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square suffered severe damage during the 2001 Nisqually earthquake agement says Pacific devastation, pain and Northwest quakes fall into three categosuffering, one might think, “What can I do 1-2 inches per year, and the northeast-mov- reach the surface. ries: shallow, with depths from 0-18 miles to help?” And at some point, you might also ing Juan de Fuca Plate is pushing into North and felt very intensely near the epicenter; THREE SOURCES America, causing stress to accumulate. The wonder, “What if this happened to us?”

FOR DAMAGING EARTHQUAKES deep, with depths between 18-46 miles – the Seattle Gay News has decided to take earthquakes occur because of an abrupt remost common earthquakes in the area; and IN SEATTLE away some of the guesswork for you. In do- lease of the accumulated stress.

PNSN says there are many faults in the subduction, the largest type of quake, with Large quakes have occurred here in the ing research for this article, I spoke with city officials, emergency preparedness profes- past, and will happen again. Besides the Pacific Northwest that could produce dam- magnitudes from 8.0 to over 9.0.

The Earthquake Engineering Research sionals, and earthquake experts to uncover 2001 Nisqually quake, other major incidents aging earthquakes, including “hard-to-identhe answers for what we, as individuals and include a 6.5 M 1965 South Puget Sound tify faults that exist entirely underground Institute conducted a Seattle Fault Scenario that modeled a magnitude 6.7 as a city, could do to better our chances at quake that killed six people quake (the worst quake, accordand cost nearly $100 million survival if the “Big One” hits Seattle. ing to PNSN, Seattle is likely to in damages; a 7.1 M 1949 face) and found that ground moSouth Puget Sound quake WHY THE EARTH MOVES tions would be two to five times that killed eight people and AND QUAKES that of the Nisqually Earthquake.

Seattle is a beautiful place to live, but it is cost a whopping $292 million A rupture on the Seattle Fault not hazard-free. The 2001 Nisqually earth- worth of damages; a 6.3 M zone could severely disrupt northquake (6.8 M) rocked Seattle and caused 1946 mid-Puget Sound quake south lifeline systems, including millions of dollars in damage. According to that damaged Seattle, mainly utilities and transportation routes, the Seattle Office of Emergency Manage- in the Duwamish Valley; and they found. ment, the Nisqually quake “pales in compar- the worst on record, a 9.0 M “A major Seattle Fault earthison to a Cascadia Megathrust earthquake, 1700 Washington Coast masquake could cause thousands of which could rival the one that unleashed the sive megathrust quake that deaths and devastate the city’s Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004.” Even more dropped the Washington coast infrastructure,” said Seattle Ofdestructive, says the office of emergency by several feet. fice of Emergency Management According to the Seattle management, would be a Seattle Fault officials on the organization’s earthquake, which would be centered right Office of Emergency Manwebsite. “Older brick buildings in the middle of the city. Let’s face it, Seattle agement, a fault zone runs [unreinforced masonry] and through the middle of the city. is earthquake country. tilt-up construction is the most “The Seattle Fault line is just “Washington State is interesting in that vulnerable. Areas of the city on there are a tremendous amount of fault lines one mile beneath the surface,” soft soils like the Duwamish and beneath its surface,” Tracy Connelly, an Connelly told SGN. “A simple Rainier Valleys are the most vulemergency management training specialist 5.0 M quake could have devnerable. Seattle’s geography and for Seattle, told SGN. “We have the capabil- astating effects. The types of our dependence on bridges make earthquakes that could potenity to have a variety of earthquakes.” us vulnerable to transportation The Pacific Northwest Seismic Network tially shake Seattle range from disruptions.”

(PNSN), an organization that operates seis- small to a 9.0 M.” Connolly says that if an SEATTLE RESPONDS earthquake happened right For the better part of the last below the city’s surface, or one of the three major plates The area between the dashed lines represents the Seattle Fault Zone decade, we’ve all seen the scenes from epic Hollywood movies shifted, “we have the potential and have not been identified at the earth’s where death and destruction are glamorized. for something very, very large.”

“What will that look like?” she asks. surface.” At the same time, some mapped From earthquakes and tornadoes to “perfect “Well, we know that earthquakes disrupt faults have been located that have not gener- storms,” the blockbusters sell movie tickets transportation, communications, and the ated earthquakes in recent geological time. as fast as they are printed. But for many, the There are three different sources for dam- visions of buildings falling, people being like, but we also face gas leaks and the potential for fires. In areas near the lakes, if the aging earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest. buried alive, and the loss of food and water The first of these is the Cascadia Subduc- are more than mere scenes in a movie. Just ground slips in a certain way, we have the potential for tsunami or a seiche.” A seiche tion Zone, a 62-mile thrust fault which is the ask the people of Haiti or Hurricane Katrina is a standing wave which can occur when convergent boundary between the Juan de survivors, and they will tell you that there is a body of water sloshes from side to side – Fuca and North American plates and is the little, if anything, man can do when Mother

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer

mograph stations and locates earthquakes in Washington and Oregon, said the Pacific Northwest has earthquakes because “we are located at a convergent continental boundary, where two tectonic plates are colliding.”

This boundary is called the Cascadia Subduction Zone. It lies offshore and runs from British Columbia to northern California.

The two plates are converging at a rate of

picture a bowl of water tipping acutely and suddenly settling back to normal. Seiches have the potential to cause major flooding.

Luckily, dramatic earthquakes are not as common as the “Nisqually” type, which occur deep under Puget Sound every 30 to 50 years. According to PNSN, the origins of these quakes are so deep, the seismic waves are significantly weakened by the time they

file photo

8

Seattle Gay News

January 29, 2010

Celebrating 37 Years!

serious injuries.”

Dean says all firefighters are trained in structural collapse and rescue – critical skills in the aftermath of an earthquake. In addition, Dean said the department has a specially trained and highly experienced

Emergency Management says, “Drop, cover, and hold.” When you feel an earthquake, drop and cover under a desk or sturdy table.

Stay away from windows and objects like bookcases that could fall. Hold on to the desk or table. If it moves, move with it. “Do

Courtesy University of Washington

Nature shows her wrath. Emergency services and basic needs that one might take for granted suddenly become the difference between life and death.

On any given day, the brave men and women of the Seattle Police Department and Seattle Fire Department face off against dangerous odds to keep the citizens of the Emerald City safe. City officials, regardless of politics, have certain duties they must perform in times of crisis. There are manuals on what to do and how and when to do it, but the question that begs answering is whether or not it can actually be done.

“The fact of the matter is, we know that communications and utilities will be affected,” Connelly told SGN. “In order for the city to properly run, planning has to happen at every level, from individuals to whole neighborhoods. In general, the more prepared the entire community is, the easier our recovery would be.”

Even though some neighborhoods would be more susceptible to ruin, PNSN cautions that, “There is no Seattle area neighborhood that is immune from possible earthquake damage. The age of structure and the type of geology in the area are two factors that will affect the vulnerability to earthquakes.”

According to Connelly, people are resilient after major emergencies. When basic communications fail, she says the best thing to do is turn to the radio. “KIRO 710 AM is the designated radio station. Radio is important; it is where people can hear up-todate information about evacuation routes and shelter areas – so much important, and possibly life-saving information can be relayed.”

Aaron Pickus, spokesman for Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn, told SGN, “In the case of an earthquake and any other emergency in our city, the mayor and his team coordinate city efforts through the Emergency Operations Center.”

McGinn says he has “complete confidence in the dedication, professionalism and skill of all city employees.”

Still, the mayor’s office says the deteriorating seawall is a major concern. “If it fails, it is likely the viaduct would fail as well,” Pickus told SGN. “It would be a terrible catastrophe and, depending on the specifics of the event and the immediate need of Seattle’s citizens, the mayor would respond accordingly.”

Connolly and the Seattle Office of Emergency Management say they are unable to pinpoint a number on the Richter Magnitude Scale that would guarantee the aging viaduct and seawall’s destruction. “It would depend on where the quake is happening and how deep it is,” she said.

If a major quake hit the Seattle area, everyone agrees that roads would be blocked and hospitals would be overcrowded. Emergency response teams may not be able to do everything they normally could, simply because, as Seattle Fire Chief Gregory Dean puts it, “emergency resources may become scarce.”

Dean told SGN the Seattle Fire Department has an overall Disaster Management Plan that outlines how the department will continue to provide emergency services during a natural or man-made disaster.

Within that plan, he said, is the Earthquake Annex, which specifically addresses the department’s ability to maintain operations in terms of personnel, facilities, equipment and communications.

“All Seattle Firefighters are emergency medical technicians, which means they provide basic emergency medical services,” he said. “Firefighter paramedics are trained at a higher level and deliver advanced emergency medical care for patients with more

Earthquake damage in Pioneer Square, Seattle, April 13, 1949

Technical Rescue Team whose members have responded to the Oklahoma City Bombing, the 9/11 attacks in New York, and Hurricane Katrina.

“There are caches of emergency equipment accessible to firefighters in strategic locations that do not require traveling over bridges or underpasses that may collapse or be in danger of collapse,” Dean told SGN. “Seattle’s fireboats have the capability to draft water from Elliot Bay to fight fires or provide a water supply if hydrants are affected by an earthquake.”

According to Dean, there are 208 firefighters on duty every day in the city, serving a population of over 600,000 people. In the event of an earthquake or any type of major event, the department has the ability to call in firefighters from home and has mutual aid agreements with bordering cities.

“However, roadways and highways would likely be compromised throughout the region, so additional help may take some time to arrive,” he said. “That is why the public plays such an important role in disaster response. Because emergency resources may become scarce, responders rely on the public to be able to care for themselves for the first 72 hours after a disaster. That means having a supply of water, food and first-aid supplies at home.”

“Help may take some time to arrive ... responders rely on the public to be able to care for themselves for the first 72 hours after a disaster. That means having a supply of water, food and first-aid supplies at home.”

Visit us online www.sgn.org

not run,” they warn. “Stay where you are.”

If you are indoors, stay inside and don’t go outside until the shaking stops. If you are in a public place, do not rush for an exit.

Instead, move away from display shelves and “drop, cover, and hold.” If you are in a stadium or theater, Seattle Office of Emergency Management recommends you get between the rows of seats, protect your head with your arms, and not leave until the shaking stops.

Being outdoors could also pose a threat.

Emergency management cautions that you should move to a clear area away from trees, signs, buildings or downed electrical wires and poles. If you are in a downtown area, get into a building, doorway or lobby to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass and other debris. If you are driving, slowly pull over to the side of the road and stop and stay in the vehicle until the shaking stops. Lastly, if you are in a wheelchair, stay in it. Move to a safe cover if possible, lock your wheels, and protect your head with your arms.

“Haiti is a teachable moment,” Connelly

says. “Seattleites should realize that being prepared is so important and really makes your chances of survival improve.”

Connelly says it is important to take the first step. Do something – anything – from the emergency management’s list of things to do to prepare for an earthquake and you will already be that much closer to protecting yourself and your loved ones from danger.

“Anchor appliances and tall, heavy furniture that might fall. Put latches on cabinet doors to keep contents from spilling out.

Find out how you can improve your home to protect it against earthquake damage,” she said. “Establish an ‘out-of-area’ contact and keep the phone numbers handy. This is the person family members will call if you are separated. Have a place at home where emergency supplies are kept and tell others where it is.”

So what happens after an earthquake?

Like Seattle Fire Chief Dean said, you and your family may be waiting up to 72 hours for outside help to arrive. Seattle Office of Emergency Management recommends you do the following: “Check yourself and those around you for injuries. Be prepared for aftershocks. Use the phone only to report a life-threatening emergency. Do not drive unnecessarily. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, open a window and leave the building. Shut off the main gas valve outside. Check on neighbors, particularly elderly or disabled persons. Try to contact your out-of-area phone contact and listen to the radio.”

If you were evacuated, wait until you are told it is safe before returning home. Be careful entering buildings and stay away from downed power lines.

Important information, earthquake preparedness classes, and general knowledge disaster courses are offered by the city. For more information, visit the Seattle Office of Emergency Management online at www.seattle.gov/emergency.

“The way we feel is that we are here to support the community in being better prepared,” Connelly told SGN. “We are a resource to the community … [to help] make all of this information not so overwhelming and scary.”

While we may not be able to predict or stop an earthquake, it is clear that we can all do our part in preparing for one. In times of disaster – be they man-made or natural – there is only so much a city government can do. The next time Seattle experiences a major earthquake, will you be prepared?

PREPARING FOR EARTHQUAKES When the ground shakes, Seattle Office of

January 29, 2010

Seattle Gay News

9

THE RECIPIENTS FOR THE 2009 GSBA B U S I N E S S & H U M A N I TA R I A N AWA R D S A R E . . .

Business of the Year

Business Leader of the Year

WAVE LINK MUSIC BRIAN DALE

ROGER NYHUS

New Business of the Year

Corporate Citizen of the Year

POPPY JERRY TRAUNFELD

GLENN JOHNSON ALASKA AIRLINES

Community Leadership of the Year

Community Leadership of the Year

JOYFUL FREEMAN AMERICAN FRIENDS SERVICE COMMITTEE GLBT YOUTH PROGRAM

JAMIE PEDERSEN W A S TAT E R E P R E S E N TAT I V E 4 3 R D D I S T R I C T, AT T O R N E Y AT L A W, K & L G AT E S

Nonprofit of the Year

President’s Award

LEGAL VOICE LISA STONE

SCOTT AITKEN SCOTT AITKEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Special Recognition

Special Recognition

VOICE FOR SOCIAL CHANGE

A D V O C AT E F O R S O C I A L CHANGE

CHARLENE STRONG

PERKINS COIE

N Y H U S C O M M U N I C AT I O N S

Photography: Dani Weiss Photography

Keynote Address Judy Dlugacz Pioneer and President, Olivia Music and Olivia Cruises

Please join us at the 29th Annual GSBA Business & Humanitarian Awards Banquet Wednesday, February 17, 2010 Grand Hyatt Seattle Cost: Tables of Ten, $1300. Members $130.

Nonmembers $145. Students $75.

Registration: thegsba.org or 206.363.9188

Emcee Gary Tucker Pacific Northwest Ballet

Special Remarks Maria Cantwell U.S. Senator

GSBA Business & Humanitarian Award Sponsors

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Seattle Gay News 15

Seattle native speaks on nightmare in Haiti

tel with his crying infant child.

Trying desperately to calm him, Hagopian wasn’t too happy about the fact that his wife, who generally kept a late schedule, would probably be working until the late evening.

By sheer luck, she arrived home early that day, much to Hagopian’s relief – and even more so when the horrible natural disaster struck just minutes after her arrival at 4:53 p.m.

For the next five days, the young family’s life became a gauntlet of giving first aid to earthquake victims and journeying through the body-filled rubble of Port-au-Prince. After five days, Jesse and his family were evacuated and have returned to Seattle.

In addition to speaking about his experience, Hagopian will also be speaking about what he calls “the occupation of Haiti” by United Nations and American troops, and the slow-going aid distribution process.

Also speaking at the event will be James Bible, president of the Seattle NAACP and Representative Jim McDermott (D-Wash.).

Many other speakers and musicians are also scheduled. The speaker portion is free of charge, while the concert fundraiser has a suggested donation of $20, all of which will go to earthquake relief in Haiti.

The forum is sponsored by the Seattle International Socialist Organization. For more information visit www.seattleiso.org. To purchase tickets, visit www.townhallseattle. org. james whitely

Jesse Hagopian

by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer Haiti Relief Benefit January 31, speakers 4-6 PM, concert 7-9 PM Town Hall Jesse Hagopian, a local social justice activist and laid-off Madison Middle School teacher from Seattle, was in Haiti with his wife, Sarah Wilhelm, an HIV/AIDS educator who works in the country, and their 1-year-old son when the magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit. The couple will be telling their story at Town Hall on January 31.

On Tuesday, January 12, Hagopian was inside his hotel room at the Villa Creole ho-

Knights of Malta hold traditional Beggars Feast

Specialized Services

by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer Knights of Malta Beggars Feast January 23 Russian Hall On January 23, members of the Jet Chapter (Seattle’s chapter) of the Knights of Malta invited guests to their annual Beggars Feast, held at Russian Hall (704 19th Ave. E.).

The charitable event featured a full-course meal consisting of such delicacies as Vatican Meatball Soup, Sir Lance-ALot Chicken Breast, and Jester’s Delight Cheesecake, as well as a variety of drag performances.

The Beggars Feast started in 1974. This year, the Beggars Feast was attended by about 90 people and featured appearances and performances from the Imperial Court of Seattle’s new candidate for emperor, as well as Olympia XXX LaTrina Bidet, Rainier XXIX Arnie Norem, Olympia XXII Morai St. Charles, Rainier XXXVI Bruce Buttler, Mr. Gay Seattle XXXIII Truedance T. Halliwell, and many more.

The Beggars Feast is closely linked to the Imperial Court of Seattle, and is generally held around the candidacy period for the Court’s emperor and empress. Traditionally,

the candidates were introduced for the first time at the Beggars Feast. Today, however, they are introduced earlier but still remain an important part of the function.

The Beggars Feast generally includes representatives from the Courts of Seattle, Everett and Bellingham, as well as representatives from the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Abbey of St. Joan, Seattle Men in Leather, and the Vancouver, BC chapter of the Knights of Malta.

“It’s been a very successful fundraiser for us over the years, and all the proceeds from the function go to our charity fund,” said Fidel Gonzalez, or “Fugi,” who has been a member of the Jet Chapter since 1973 and currently serves as the treasurer of the organization.

“Within the past three or four years, we’ve been able to raise and give out over $8,000 to local charitable organizations in our community,” Fugi told SGN. Recently, the Knights have donated to Bat N’ Rouge, the Lambert House, and a variety of other nonprofit LGBT-centric organizations.

The Jet Chapter of the Knights of Malta is a nonprofit social charitable club. The chapter was started in 1972. Its purpose is to serve as a community support group and fundraising entity.

For more information, visit www.jetchapterkofm.com.

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by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer New Seattle City Attorney Pete Holmes swept into office in a landslide, winning 62% of the vote against incumbent Tom Carr.

Once in office, Holmes lost no time in reorganizing the City Attorney’s department to suit him. Holmes took office on January 1, and was formally sworn in on January 4.

By January 15, he’d fired 14 people – two division chiefs, the police-precinct liaison, Carr’s personal assistant and 10 assistant city attorneys.

As might be expected, the changes didn’t go over well with the 14 who lost their jobs.

“I have never seen a more inept, disorganized and, quite frankly, vindictive transition than this one in 30 years of public life,” said Bob Hood, who headed the criminal division since 1998.

Holmes had informed Hood by phone last month that he would not be re-appointed.

Twenty-one-year veteran attorney Ted Inkley speculated to reporters that some of the attorneys who lost their jobs were fired because they were involved in controversial cases.

Speaking with SGN in his fifth-floor office in City Hall, Holmes denied any vindictiveness.

“Of the 14,” he said, “I only knew one personally – that was Ted Inkley – and I bore no grudge towards any of them.”

“We have a 170-person department,” Holmes explained. “Only two are union. All the ACAs [Assistant City Attorneys] are exempt, at-will positions.”

“None of the decisions was made lightly,” Holmes continued. “I know there’s a recession and I didn’t want to fire people.”

According to Holmes, he spent many hours before assuming office talking with city officials, attorneys, and others to determine how the City Attorney’s office had performed under his predecessor.

“I talked to everyone,” Holmes told SGN, “prosecutors and defenders, Nickels and McGinn – what did the office do right and where is there room for improvement? I spent hours with [former Deputy Mayor] Tim Ceis and [Seattle City Light Superintendent] Jorge Carrasco.”

“We ran into some things we didn’t expect,” he continued. “No incumbent has been ousted for 30 years. There was a lack of performance evaluations. It had been deferred for years.”

Holmes says his fact-finding discussions revealed serious flaws in the department.

“There were internal performance issues,”

he says. “It’s ironic – I can’t disclose the personnel reasons – if the election had gone the other way, there would still be people out of work.”

Holmes says he found flaws, but also outstanding employees who he’s retained or promoted.

“In the employment division, [new division chief] Jean Bowler was a standout,” he says. “She told me things I didn’t want to hear, but I needed to hear. I created one new position. Darby [Ducomb], my chief of staff. We’re philosophically simpatico.”

“I come from the private sector where customer service is the rule,” Holmes says.

“I want to be much more outward looking, and the chief of staff will help me do that. I already have been; we’ll see if I can keep up the pace.”

One of the issues in his campaign against Tom Carr was Carr’s perceived hostility to the city’s nightclub and entertainment industry. While no specifically Gay club was targeted in Carr’s “Operation Sobering Thought” nightclub sting, Holmes says he is aware of concerns among Gay club owners and managers.

“I want to be much more engaged in negotiating good neighbor agreements,” he says.

“We really have to engage all parties – the clubs and the surrounding homeowners and businesses – and I want to be personally involved.”

“I will give priority to liquor license reviews,” he adds. “I think we’ll be more successful if we put more time and more energy into it.”

Asked about reports that Gay bars and clubs are subjects of occasional police harassment often focused on soft-core porn videos, Holmes replied that he shared the community’s concern.

“You know,” he said, “I was at R Place. I had a great time, and I asked about the videos. That’s not a normal law enforcement function. I can’t see how that would not be a First Amendment issue.”

As city attorney, Holmes will have to build a working relationship with the city’s police department. As chair of the SPD’s Office of Professional Accountability (OPA), he often clashed with police, and with his predecessor, Tom Carr.

In fact, Carr and his supporters in the Seattle Police Guild (SPOG) accused Holmes of violating SPOG’s collective bargaining agreement with the city by seeking to disclose information covered by existing confidentiality agreements.

“That was an unfair and scurrilous charge by my opponent,” Holmes shoots back.

“The confidentiality agreement conflicted

Seattle City Attorney Pete Holmes

with [OPA] reporting requirements.”

“There has to be a balance,” he continues.

“I believe in transparency, but I also believe in the right to privacy which is guaranteed by our state constitution.”

Holmes believes he has already overcome many concerns on the part of the police.

“We’re building a really good working relationship with the SPD and the two unions that represent them,” he says. “I’ve already had three meetings with [Interim] Chief Diaz.”

Asked what other issues are on his plate in the near future, Holmes mentions the Alaskan Way viaduct and the possibility of building a new city jail.

“We have a team advising the city on the tunnel and seawall,” Holmes says. “I call it the SR99 Team. I don’t want to imply that this office is for the tunnel or for the surface option – that’s not my job. We provide legal advice and support but we don’t make policy.”

“We will be involved in deciding whether the city builds a new jail,” Holmes promises.

Asked how he stands on the controversial project, he replies, “My obligation is to do

everything in my power to prevent it. We just don’t have the quarter-billion dollars it will take to build it.”

“We may have bought ourselves a little extra time,” he adds. “Dow has given us a one-year extension [on use of King County jail] and the new mayor is talking to South King County cities [about jail space].”

Holmes says he looks forward to leading his newly reorganized department.

“The cuts are done,” he says. “Now it’s all about team building.”

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Seattle Gay News 17

DADT

continued from cover servicemembers were forced out of the military since President Obama and 111th Congress were sworn in. Since the policy was put into place in 1993, nearly 13,000 men and women have been separated from the military – at least one, often two, every day.

It is estimated that 65,000 Gay and Lesbian people currently serve in the military.

A new survey, released by a Gay rights policy center on January 26, says an estimated 66,000 Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual people are serving in the U.S. military – roughly 2% of all military personnel. The figures suggest a slight increase in the number of Gays in the military.

Gays, Lesbians and Bisexuals account for about 13,000 active duty servicemembers, equal to less than 1% currently deployed, the report estimated. An additional 53,000 others serve in the National Guard and reserves, equaling about 3.4%.

The actual number of Gays, Lesbians and Bisexuals serving in uniform is unknown; the military does not track such figures.

The latest reports authors used a variety of statistical methods to arrive at the estimate, drawing in part on the Census Bureau’s 2008 American Community Survey and the 2000 Census, in which some people identified themselves as Gay, Lesbian or Bisexual and as serving in the military.

As president, Obama hasn’t taken any concrete steps toward repealing the failed Department of Defense policy. Still, Obama has said on more than one occasion that he would do away with the ban. It is important to note that the president cannot repeal the law without the support of both Congress and the Senate – something unlikely to happen without the consent of top military brass. In other words, a repeal of DADT will

only come to pass if there is a general con- Alexander Nicholson, founder and execusensus between lawmakers, the executive tive director of Servicemembers United. branch, and the service chiefs.

“Although brief, his language was plain, Obama’s effort to eliminate DADT faces his message was clear, and the outline of his some resistance from Congress and Penta- strategy was smart. This effort will indeed gon officials who have been staunch sup- be a challenge for our community, and the porters of the Clinton-era policy. Still, the resistance of those who support discriminaPentagon said on January 28 that it tion in our armed forces should not will work to carry out the presbe underestimated. But one ident’s wishes. Top military thing is now clear: a full A new survey leaders are working on a assault on this failed law plan for how a repeal is underway by those ... says an estimated of the law would be who recognize that implemented in the 66,000 Gay, Lesbian and discrimination is Defense Departnot an American Bisexual people are serving value.” ment, said Navy Capt. John Kirby, “We have heard in the U.S. military – roughly promises spokesman for before Adm. Mike Mulabout ending 2% of all military personnel. DADT and we len, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of The figures suggest a slight welcome the presiStaff. dent’s statement to“The chairman and increase in the number of night that the time has the service chiefs unfinally come to fulfill Gays in the military. that promise,” said Kevin derstand perfectly the president’s intent, and they Cathcart, executive director look forward to being able to of Lambda Legal. “Very little provide their best military advice about has changed since Lambda Legal reprethe implementation to repeal,” Kirby said. sented Colonel Margarethe Cammermeyer Asked on January 28 whether the Army is 18 years ago after she was discharged for ready for such a change, Army Chief of Staff being a Lesbian. Changing this discriminaGen. George Casey said, “What you heard tory policy is long overdue.” last night was the beginning of a process.”

The military is our nation’s largest emAccording to Pentagon officials, Mullen ployer and this government-sanctioned disand Defense Secretary Robert Gates are ex- crimination must end, he said. “We will conpected to address the topic in congressional tinue to advocate for the repeal of DADT so budget hearings next week. that Gay and Lesbian servicemembers and their families can serve openly and with SUPPORT FOR REPEAL the same support afforded to other military Servicemembers United, the nation’s families.” largest organization of Gay and Lesbian The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), troops and veterans and their allies, lauded the nation’s largest LGBT civil rights orObama’s remarks regarding DADT. ganization, announced on January 28 a ro“Tonight, President Obama stepped up to bust campaign to end DADT in response the plate and made a firm commitment to to Obama’s pledge. The “Voices of Honor” work to finally end DADT in 2010,” said will organize veterans across the country, generate media coverage, and build focused campaigns in key states that will be critical to the final votes in the House and Senate, said HRC officials.

“The commander-in-chief sent a clear message tonight that in a time of war, what matters is that our men and women get the job done – not whether they’re Gay or straight,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “Our ‘Voices of Honor’ campaign will bring about much-needed action to end this law that the vast majority of Americans oppose.”

Solmonese says our country simply can-

not afford “this discriminatory law that hurts military readiness by denying patriotic men and women the opportunity to serve.”

“Ridding our laws of discrimination that weakens our national security will require continued leadership from the president, as well as Congressional allies. We look forward to working with the president and Congress to advance an equality agenda on these and a range of other issues,” he said.

SKEPTICISM OVER DADT REPEAL Although President Obama’s call for repeal energized some, it fell short for some Gay activists, including some of the servicemembers a repeal would benefit.

“Obama should have announced a suspension of dismissals,” said Rea Carey, executive director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. “The time for broad statements is over. The time to get down to business is overdue. We wish we had heard him speak of concrete steps tonight.”

Army Lieutenant Dan Choi, a West Point grad, Arabic translator and outspoken advocate for repealing DADT, made headlines when he came out as Gay on The Rachel Maddow Show. Following his on-air announcement, Choi was recommended for discharge from military service. In the time since then, he’s been the face of the movement to repeal DADT. Choi made his views known following Obama’s State of the Union address and branded the president’s remarks as lip service.

“Last night, the president repeated his campaign commitment to repeal DADT as part of his State of the Union address,” said Choi. “While the president promised that DADT would come to an end ‘this year,’ he did not provide specifics – and the White House still has not released a plan to kill it.

That’s unacceptable.”

A group of top military brass that Adm. Mullen formed to advise him of the issue has urged a delay that could go into the middle of the next presidential election year.

Public opinion in the way Americans view DADT is shifting. A July 2008 poll by the Washington Post and ABC news found that 75% of Americans support allowing Gays to serve openly in the military – up from just 44% in 1993.

Obama has called for a repeal, that much is certain. Whether or not Congress and the Senate act on it or the likelihood of the military chiefs implementing it remains to be seen.

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Gay marriage and abortion

by Jennifer Vanasco SGN Contributing Writer Gay marriage is not like abortion.

This might seem obvious – one is about keeping a life from starting, the other is about joining two lives together – but in fact, Gay marriage is compared to abortion a lot.

People lump Gay marriage in the same polarizing issue category as abortion and gun control all the time. It’s one of the issues, it seems, that defines someone as a liberal or conservative, from a red state or a blue one.

For example, the Washington Post said in a headline in 2004 that Gay marriage is “the new abortion.”

And often, legal experts or other talking heads will predict the outcome of a Supreme Court Gay marriage battle by looking at Roe v. Wade. That decision was a disaster, they say, because the Court’s opinion protecting the right to an abortion was far ahead of public opinion. The country was heading toward making abortion legal anyway, the theory goes, until the Court made a big deal about it and caused a backlash that we’re still suffering from.

But Gay marriage is not abortion.

In a New Yorker article on the Proposition 8 trial Perry v. Schwarzenegger, which is currently being argued, Margaret Talbot writes that researchers who “have studied public opinion on Gay rights, believe that in five years a majority of Americans will favor same-sex marriage – the result of generational replacement and what [one researcher] calls ‘attitude adjustment.’”

She goes on to say, “The generational divide does not produce such results for all social issues. On abortion, for instance, younger Americans tend to be less supportive of unfettered rights. Nor does Gay marriage seem to be a life-cycle issue – one that

tually they recognize that the issue is not a moral question – as abortion is – but instead Jennifer Vanasco is an award-winning, is about a fundamental issue of fairness. syndicated columnist. Follow her at http:// Gay marriage is not abortion. Let’s not www.Twitter.com/JenniferVanasco. Email people become more conservative about as predict failure just because we think it is. her at jennifer.vanasco@gmail.com they age.”

Also, when people change their minds nently. about Gay marriage, they tend to do it in Mayor Newsom isn’t the only one who only one direction – become approving. continued from cover thinks so. David Boies, Al Gore’s 2000 Abortion can change minds either way. recount lawyer and a lead attorney on the Why is this? Because intuitively, people challenge of California’s Proposition 8, told understand that abortion (or gun control) Newsom says that there is some belief that Dowd that his hope going forward was that is fundamentally different from Gay mar- Obama actually doesn’t believe in same-sex “my Democratic president will catch up on riage. marriage. He said it is fundamentally in- my conservative Republican co-counsel Abortion and gun control are both privacy excusable for a member of the Democratic [Ted Olsen, George W. Bush’s recount lawissues. party to stand on the principle that separate yer].”

People who want an abortion or want to is now equal, but only on the basis of sexual There are few politicians, Republican own a gun (or who don’t want to wear a seat- orientation. “We’ve always fought for the and Democratic alike, who have a track belt or get their kid immunized) are people rights of minorities and against the whims record accomplished enough to criticize who want to make a personal choice without of majorities,” he said. the president on LGBT issues as Newsom government interference or regulation.

The criticism didn’t end there. Newsom, can. In 2004, Newsom gained national atIn a world without a government, they who dropped plans to run for California tention when he directed the San Francisco would be able to make these choices unhin- governor in late October, told Dowd that the city-county clerk to issue marriage licenses dered. promise of the 2008 Obama election – the to same-sex couples. In 2004, the Supreme Also, they apply to everyone equally. Ei- “organic movement” – no longer held true. Court of California annulled the marriages ther every woman can get an abortion or no He said that, in its void, Democrats have that Newsom had authorized, as they conone can. found themselves in a vulnerable position. flicted with the state law at the time. Still, Gays and Lesbians who want to get mar“There’s a growing discontent and lack of Newsom’s unexpected move brought naried are simply asking to be regulated in the enthusiasm that I worry about,” said News- tional attention to the issues of Gay marsame way as straight couples. We are asking om. “He should just stand on principle, put riage and Gay rights, solidifying political that the laws apply equally to us. this behind him, and move on.” support for Newsom in San Francisco and in Yes, we can opt out of the system altoAmong Newsom’s ranks of politicians, the Gay community. Even as California votgether. We can get married in a church with- LGBT advocates, and lawyers who want to ers voted for a same-sex marriage ban and out the state’s involvement or not marry at push the Gay rights agenda, such criticisms the California State Supreme Court upheld all, but live together as a couple. That would seem appealing. Among areas of political Proposition 8, Newsom has continued to be a private choice, and that is the sort of stagnation that have plagued Obama’s ad- advocate for marriage equality in California choice already addressed by the overturn- ministration, LGBT issues stand out promi- and the nation. ing of sodomy laws by the Supreme Court in Lawrence v Texas.

But what we want is for the law to apply to us. We WANT to be regulated in the same way as anyone else. We WANT the state to sanction our unions. We WANT to abide by the state’s tax laws for couples.

The reason that people (even conservative people, like Dick Cheney) move toward acceptance of Gay marriage is because even-

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Seattle Gay News 19

SNDA

continued from cover gender (LGBT), or are perceived to be LGBT, or who associate with LGBT people, have been and are subjected to pervasive discrimination, including harassment, bullying, intimidation and violence, and have been deprived of equal educational opportunities, in schools in every part of our Nation.”

SNDA empowers federal departments and agencies to issue “rules, regulations, or orders of general applicability” to protect LGBT students from discrimination and to withhold federal funds from schools or programs that fail to comply.

The act also entitles students who are victims of discrimination or harassment to sue their state or local school authorities, and to collect damages “including but not limited to equitable relief, compensatory damages, cost of the action, and remedial action.”

“Every day innocent students fall victim to relentless harassment and discrimination from teachers, staff, and fellow students based on their sexual orientation,” said Polis. “These actions not only hurt our students and our schools but, left unchecked, can also lead to life-threatening violence.”

“Hatred has no place in the classroom,” Polis added. “Every student has the right to an education free from harassment and violence. This bill will protect the individual freedoms of our students and enshrine the

values of equality and opportunity in our classrooms.”

Existing federal civil rights laws expressly forbid discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, disability or national origin. They do not include sexual orientation or gender identity, however.

While 30 states have anti-bullying laws, only nine have laws expressly forbidding bullying based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Another four prohibit bullying based on sexual orientation only.

As a result, LGBT students and their parents have had little or no legal recourse for discrimination or harassment.

In his statement on Wednesday, Polis said that SNDA would continue the tradition of previous civil rights legislation.

“Like Title VI for minorities in the ‘60s and Title IX for women in the ‘70s, my legislation puts LGBT students on an equal footing with their peers, so they can attend school and get a quality education, free from fear,” he said.

“I don’t know how anyone could oppose this bill,” said co-sponsor Jim McDermott of Seattle. “Every student in America should feel safe going to school and should never face harassment or the threat of violence.”

“This issue is deeply important to me and I’m incredibly grateful to Rep. Polis for his leadership on this legislation. I hope that with the strong support we already have in Congress, we’ll get this bill passed quickly,” McDermott added.

Sixteen national advocacy organizations have also announced their support, includ-

ing the ACLU, HRC, NGLTF, and GLSEN. Before election to Congress, Polis chaired the Colorado State Board of Education.

He also founded two charter schools for at-risk students. In 2004, he established the New America School which serves immigrant youth ages 16–21 and has three campuses in the Denver Metro area. In 2005, he co-founded the Academy of Urban Learning in Denver to serve homeless youth.

Jared Polis was elected to Congress in

2008. He is one of three openly Gay US Representatives, the others being Barney Frank and Tammy Baldwin.

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mccain

man and one woman.”

On January 20, the NOH8 website posted the following note, along with Cindy McCain’s photo, expressing the organization’s surprise and appreciation that she decided to join the cause: “In the year since we’ve started the NOH8 Campaign, we’ve been surprised at some of the different individuals who have approached us showing their support. Few, though, have surprised us more than Cindy McCain – the wife of Senator John McCain and mother to vocal marriage equality advocate Meghan McCain. The McCains are one of the most well-known Republican families in recent history, and for Mrs. McCain to have reached out to us to offer her support truly means a lot. Although we had worked with Meghan McCain before and we are aware of her own position, we’d never really thought the cause might be something her mother could get behind.

“Aligning yourself with the platform of Gay marriage as a Republican still tends to be very stigmatic, but Cindy McCain wanted to participate in the campaign to show people that party doesn’t matter – marriage equality isn’t a Republican issue any more than it is a Democratic issue. It’s about human rights, and everybody being treated equally in the eyes of the law that runs and protects this country.”

continued from cover 20 when Cindy McCain, the wife of 2008 Republican presidential nominee John McCain, posed for an ad endorsing pro-Gay marriage forces in California.

The photos show the high-profile Republican with silver duct tape across her mouth and “NOH8” written on one cheek.

NOH8 is a photo project in which subjects are photographed wearing white, against a white background, with their mouths taped shut and “NOH8” painted on their faces.

NOH8 is a Gay rights group challenging Proposition 8, a ballot measure passed by California voters in 2008 banning same-sex marriage in the state.

Truth be told, Cindy McCain was playing catch-up to her daughter, Meghan McCain – a vocal proponent of marriage equality – who posed for NOH8 last summer. Either way, we are happy to see Cindy showing solidarity with her daughter.

Still, John McCain isn’t budging on his position against marriage equality. John McCain’s office issued a statement saying the Arizona senator respects the views of members of his family, but remains opposed to Gay marriage. It says McCain believes “marriage is only defined as between one

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