SGN March 12, 2010 - Section 1

Issue 11 Volume 38

FRIDAY March 12, 2010 FREE! 25¢ in bookstores & news stands

Celebrating 37 Years!

gay people IN SEATTLE p. 5

orcas strip p. 18

DINA TWISTS p. 25

Seattle Gay News SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

Vatican rocked by male Equal Rights Washington prostitution scandal

chooses new exec. director

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer

On March 6 at the W Hotel in downtown Seattle, Equal Rights Washington (ERW), the statewide advocacy organization working to achieve legal and social equality for LGBT individuals and families, announced Josh Friedes as the organization’s new executive director at “The Power of Us,” ERW’s fourth annual gala.

Friedes served as the advocacy director of Equal Rights Washington for three years before taking a leave of absence to be the campaign manager for the successful Washington Families Standing Together Approve Referendum 71 campaign. Before coming to Washington state, Friedes served as the senior staffer at the Freedom to Marry Coalition of Massachusetts and as the board chair of the MassEquality Education Fund.

Dr. Shilpen Patel, ERW board chairman, expressed his enthusiasm. “On behalf of the ERW board see ERW page 19

Mississippi school cancels prom over Lesbian student

by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer

“Thanks for ruining my senior year.” That’s what a high school student said to Constance McMillen, an 18-year-old Fulton, Mississippi high school senior, after her school district canceled her senior prom instead of allowing her to attend the celebration with her girlfriend.

McMillen admitted that she didn’t want to return to school after the Itawamba County school board’s decision, but her father told her she needed to face her classmates, teachers, and school officials.

“My daddy told me that I needed to show them that I’m still proud of who I am,” McMillen told the Associated Press in a telephone interview. McMillen identifies as a Lesbian.

The Itawamba County School District announced on March 10 that it wouldn’t host the April 2 prom “due to the distractions to the educational process caused by recent events.”

The decision was voted in after the American Civil Liberties

Equal Rights Washington Executive Director Josh Friedes

Anti-bullying law passes unanimously Official photo

The McMillen Family via The ACLU of Mississippi/AP Photo

Constance McMillen

Brian M. Westbrook for www.brianwestbrook.com

Corsera

the spotlight for their involvement in a homosexual prostitution ring.

Angelo Balducci, a “Gentleman of His Holiness,” was caught by police on a wiretap allegedly negotiating with Thomas Chinedu Ehiem, a 29-year-old Vatican chorister, over the specific physical details of men he wanted brought to him.

Balducci is also a senior advisor to the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, the department that oversees the Roman Catholic Church’s worldwide missionary activities.

Transcripts in the Angelo Balducci possession of the U.K.

by Shaun Knittel newspaper The GuardSGN Staff Writer ian suggest that numerous men may have been procured for BalLate last week, the Vatican was ducci, at least one of whom was rocked by a sex scandal involv- studying for the priesthood. ing one of the pope’s ceremonial ushers and a member of the elite Vatican choir. Both were put in see Vatican page 20

Washington State Representative Marko Liias

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

A new anti-bullying bill, HB 2801, has passed the Washington state legislature and now goes to Gov. Christine Gregoire for her signature.

The vote was 48-0 in the State see prom page 17 Senate and 97-0 in the State House.

proud to Be Different

We are conveniently located on-site at Lifelong AIDS Alliance below the Thrift Store.

Gregoire is expected to sign it into law within the next week.

Highlights of the new law include: • A revision of the state’s model policy on bullying to be completed

by August 1, 2011.

• Policy and procedure reports see bullying page 20

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March 12, 2010

Celebrating 37 Years!

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March 12, 2010

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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.

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Tour de Life: Gorillas in the mist

by Beau Burriola SGN European Correspondent

sauna, and the first guy seemed to hurry up his changing so he could race in.

All that makes me want to avoid the place There is a sauna at our gym where a whole at all costs. I get that people like public sex load of men seem to spend their day. It’s as because there’s danger to it, a kind of verboif they were born there, built right into that ten excitement that people don’t get being room and never leave, because although normal and having sex behind closed doors they go to the gym to sit in the sauna, I don’t in – God forbid – a bed, but I don’t get why it’s still so popular. Like in the really see any of them go out into 1920s, I might understand the gym itself. If you’re Gay, you might find that I get that people like why a guy would get kicks at the local intriguing, but I don’t public sex because there’s his park, especially in a find it much fun to be cooking in a six-foot danger to it ... but I don’t get society of people who just don’t get it. But toby six-foot room with why it’s still so popular. day?

It seems strange to a bunch of sweaty men me that after all the years of who don’t talk. It seems taking steps to get society to treat kind of bizarre to me, like a joke I Gay folks like everybody else, there’s this don’t quite get the punchline to.

I know the sauna because I pass it every whole group of people who race into the day between my locker and the shower. shadows to be dark and shady about sex.

There’s a glass door and occasionally some- But hey, live and let live. Nobody is harmed one will come or go, or there will be a sort of by it, so what do I care? It’s strange to me, ghoulish face hovering in the mist and look- but so are people who like mustard on their ing out. It occurred to me during the second French fries. So long as I don’t slip on anyweek I was going to this gym that there thing on the way to and from the shower, it’s might be something other than cooking go- all just kind of part of the gym experience I ing on in there because I saw some guys know exists but have never been a part of – giving one another sideways glances before at least it was until yesterday.

When I arrived at the gym yesterday, one they both headed over to it, opened the door, and disappeared into the mist. A couple of of the usual gorillas had just left the sauna to days later, I was on my way back from the go to his locker, wearing his tiny sauna towshower and one of the same guys was just el. Nobody else was in the locker room and arriving when another guy went into the I guess maybe he was hunting, at least that’s

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the feeling I got from the electric expectation he was leering around the room with. I’ve learned not to look at the gorillas at all when this happens, because if you don’t speak the language of sexual intrigue, you don’t really want to chance saying something you don’t mean to say. It’s their habitat, and I’m just hoping to visit long enough to get changed and get out of there, so I try my hardest not to even slightly send any signals.

After a while of receiving no response, he moved very suddenly. When I turned, I saw him sitting there right on the bench not two feet away from me. I didn’t know what to do, but I could sense he was paying close attention. I glanced up and saw that he was pretending to do something on his cell phone, maybe sending a text message, but I discovered rather quickly that what he was actually doing was resting his arm on his leg so that he could flash his bits at me.

Not wanting to move too suddenly as to frighten him or to move too slowly as to become prey, I decided the best thing to do was just to continue as if nothing at all had happened. Here was a man who clearly had his own ideas about what was going to happen. This was his habitat, and the way things worked. If it ever occurred to him that some folks preferred a bit of subtlety, he didn’t show any signs he cared much.

Gradually, I got my gym clothes on – all the while humming something to myself so that my annoyed and nervous energy wouldn’t be so apparent. He didn’t budge from his spot and I could feel him waiting for me to respond somehow. When I didn’t, he gave himself a little rub.

I got my shoes on and locked up my locker, getting away quickly and quietly.

I’ve been an openly Gay man for 12 years now, and I’ve come to a sort of peace (albeit sometimes delicate) with the awkward encounters I have with Gay men I have nothing in common with. I won’t flatter myself to say these encounters happen all the time, but when they do, I feel kind of sad and lost.

I find that the older I get, the more I wish we would all collectively evolve into something less … carnal.

But then, if this is the natural order of things, is it me who is out of place? Will I eventually become one of those Gay men who chooses to live outside the Gay community because being in the middle of it just seems too Gay? And if I do that, aren’t I becoming just a little bit jaded? Maybe if you are a Gay man, you’ve just got to be okay with everything because any rejection of any sexuality – however tasteless you find it – is capitulation to inner homophobia.

Beau Burriola is a Brussels-based writer with a big, modesty-protecting towel and very strict locker room etiquette. beaubrent@gmail.com

March 12, 2010

Celebrating 37 Years!

Supreme Court will hear Gay People in Seattle group celebrates one year Fred Phelps case courtesy GPIS

GPiS founders

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer Gay People in Seattle anniversary party March 18 at 6 PM Hotel 1000 Twelve months and over 1,300 members later, Gay People in Seattle (GPiS) is poised to celebrate their first year of monthly social networking events for LGBT people who call the Emerald City home. Due to a high volume of participants, Seattle’s LGBT community has built an exciting and popular monthly event where friends are made, networks are forged, and – in some cases – love is found.

“GPiS events provide a social environment where members are encouraged to chat,” U. Mark Chavez, one of the organization’s organizers, told SGN. “We are helping to build a social networking community in Seattle and its surrounding areas.”

Chavez, alongside fellow GPiS organizers Jim Hedington, Geoff Tucker, and Tracy Schultz, say participation has exceeded their expectations. “We started with a dormant group in March, 2009, with a little over 250 members,” Chavez explained. “Since then, we’ve seen a steady growth each month.

As we now celebrate our one-year anniversary as a Gay social group, we’re over 1,350 members.”

The best aspect of GPiS is the comfort level and ease of meeting new people and personally reconnecting with them.

“Whether you’ve just moved to Seattle or have lived here your entire life, or you’re shy or just coming out of a long-term rela-

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

The U.S. Supreme Court announced March 9 that it would hear the appeal of a Maryland man who sued notorious homophobe Fred Phelps and his Westboro Baptist Church.

Albert Snyder, father of Marine Lance Cpl. Matthew Snyder, filed suit after Phelps and his followers picketed his son’s funeral in 2006. In October 2007, a jury awarded Snyder $11 million in damages, but the judgment was reversed on appeal.

Both sides agree on the facts of the case.

Matthew Snyder was killed in action in Iraq.

At his funeral, Phelps and his followers displayed signs saying “God Hates the USA/Thank God for 9/11,” “Semper Fi Fags,” “Thank God for Dead Soldiers” and “Priests Rape Boys.”

All the signs were made in the Kansas church’s on-site sign shop.

Phelps says that he informed local police about his plans to picket and obeyed all their commands about keeping his distance from the funeral.

Snyder v. Phelps turns on conflicting First Amendment claims.

Phelps asserts his belief that combat deaths of U.S. soldiers are God’s punishment for the country’s tolerance of homosexuality and that his signs are protected speech on issues of national importance.

Snyder claims he has a right to conduct a private religious funeral without outside interference, and says Phelps’ actions caused him and his family emotional distress.

Albert Snyder told the original jury hearing the case that he had “one chance to bury my son, and they took the dignity away from it.”

tionship, our events are a great way to make new friends, business connections, and meet people that you typically wouldn’t meet outside of your social circle,” said Chavez.

According to GPiS organizers, they average about 160 people at the monthly mixers.

“The tough part is getting a chance to say hello to everyone you know and trying to remember everyone’s name,” Chavez told SGN. “But that’s OK; we use name tags, so that takes care of that part.”

For Chavez, GPiS monthly mixers are important for the LGBT community because they “give everyone a chance to network and meet people without the implication that you’re looking for more than friendship.”

It’s a much safer environment, Chavez says, where “everyone can be themselves and not try to impress the other person.”

To celebrate one year as Seattle’s premier LGBT monthly social, GPiS is throwing their anniversary party on March 18 at 6 p.m., at Hotel 1000 in downtown Seattle.

This month’s event is co-sponsored by Seattle Out and Proud, producers of the annual Seattle Pride Parade. Hotel 1000 has donated a dinner for two that GPiS organizers will raffle off at the event.

“The anniversary event is a way for us to thank everyone who has attended our events or invited and brought friends to GPiS over the past 12 months.” Chavez said. “We love to meet new people and see new faces. We welcome everyone.”

If you are interested in finding out more about GPiS, becoming a member, or for more information about their events, visit by Mike Andrew the organization on Facebook by typing in SGN Staff Writer “Gay People in Seattle” into the search bar.

Oklahoma’s state Senate tried to opt out of federal hate crimes laws with a measure passed on March 10.

Republican Sen. Steve Russell’s amendment to SB 1965 – which had been a routine education bill – made significant changes experiences.” to Oklahoma’s hate crimes laws and would For 30 years, Seattle PFLAG has provided make it impossible for the U.S. Justice Dea safe haven for families to discuss sexuality partment to intervene in hate crimes cases. in an open and supportive environment. Sue SB 1965 had been intended to create a Ramsey remembers her first group meet- task force to study the Oklahoma Secondary ing. “When I went to PFLAG, my son had School Activities Association. just come out to me. PFLAG helped me get After Russell’s amendment, it now rethrough a really tough time in the beginning. quires that evidence collected during state I had some practical questions – would my hate crimes investigations not ending in son be safe, would he find someone to love? convictions be destroyed or held by the PFLAG has brought me closer to my son. Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.

Now even my nieces and nephews march in Russell said the amendment is meant to PFLAG parades.” prevent federal law enforcement officials Ramsey is now the vice president of Se- from taking over a case and applying differattle PFLAG. She says there are a thousand ent standards when local law enforcement ways to raise money for the organization, has already investigated a case. and “we have an important educational mesHe added that hate crimes should be prossage that goes with it.” ecuted by local officials and not the federal With the unveiling of “PFLAG Presents,” government. the organization is again stepping up its vis“We just don’t want the pendulum to ibility and hoping to increase its advocacy, swing too far the other way,” Russell said. education, and support roles here in Seattle. “This protects people to do or say whatever “I expressed an interest in fundraising,” they want, as long as it complies with local says Vogt. “One of those ways was a lec- ordinances.” ture series. The first was a house party with The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Washington state Sen. Ed Murray in July Hate Crimes Act passed last year authorizes 2009. We called it the PFLAG ‘Summer the U.S. Justice Department to intervene in Soiree.’ We had a great turnout and exceed- hate crimes cases involving sexual orientaed our expectations for fundraising, and tion, gender identity, or disability. The Juswith matching gifts from companies.” tice Department was already authorized to “PFLAG Presents” is open to anyone in investigate cases involving race, color, relithe public who would like to attend. The fo- gion, or national origin. rum will be held at the 5th Avenue Theatre The new law has been used by the FBI to in the Producers Club Lounge on March 31 monitor a murder investigation in Puerto from 7-9 p.m. Suggested donation for at- Rico and a rape case in Big Bend, Texas. tendance is $15. For more information, call Federal law enforcement officials would 206-412-1199 or email ben@bhvdesignlab. typically base their investigations on evicom. dence collected locally, so destroying the

Oklahoma not OK

State Senate tries to opt out of federal hate crimes law

PFLAG to raise funds and awareness with political panel

by David Zimmerman Special to the SGN

“PFLAG Presents” lecture series March 31, 7-9 PM 5th Avenue Theatre Producers club lounge Bring together area politicians who work for Gay rights issues. Invite the public to be part of the discussion. Raise money for the well-known LGBT organization Seattle PFLAG. Those are the goals for PFLAG Board Member Ben Vogt, the driving force behind the new series called “PFLAG Presents” aimed at fusing political action with the needs of the community. Says Vogt, “We hope this will get people talking. It will be a great way to make connections. This education series is a way to engage, it’s a return investment for the community.” The forum will be held at the 5th Avenue Theatre’s Producers Club Lounge on March 31 and will feature Seattle City Council members Sally Clark and Tom Rasmussen, and State Senator Joe McDermott, who represents West Seattle and Vashon Island. C.R. Douglas will moderate the discussion. Douglas is the host of City Inside/Out on the Seattle Channel.

In the arena of LGBT rights, there are always a plethora of issues to discuss. Vogt rattles off a few of those topics. “Ideas for reducing hate crimes and promoting equality in workplace hiring. How to get folks engaged in the LGBT community and strengthen common goals. We’re really hoping the panel will talk about their own

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That jury found in Snyder’s favor and awarded him punitive damages. Subsequently, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit reversed the decision.

A three-judge panel of the 4th Circuit said a reasonable person would not have understood the signs as referring directly to Snyder and his son.

The signs were not meant to be taken literally, but were “imaginative and hyperbolic rhetoric intended to spark debate about issues with which the defendants [Phelps and his church] are concerned,” the court said.

The court also held that, while Phelps’ signs were offensive, they were protected speech on “matters of public concern.”

“Notwithstanding the distasteful and repugnant nature of the words being challenged in these proceedings, we are constrained to conclude that the defendants’ signs … are constitutionally protected,” the court said.

Snyder’s petition to the Supreme Court said the appeals court decision “afforded more First Amendment protection to speech that is outrageous.”

It urged the justices to hear the case to determine what recourse private individuals – as opposed to public figures – have against other private individuals who disrupt private religious services.

Because this case was widely publicized, 40 states and the federal government have enacted laws restricting funeral demonstrations. Those laws are not at issue in the litigation.

The Supreme Court will hear Snyder v.

Phelps during its new term beginning in October 2010. No hearing date has been set.

The Court will normally hear only cases in which it believes a national legal standard should be set.

March 12, 2010

evidence or holding it under the jurisdiction of a state agency would effectively stymie federal intervention.

Russell has made it clear that he objects to federal protections for LGBT people.

“The law is very vague to begin with,” Russell said. “Sexual orientation is a very vague word that could be extended to extremes like necrophilia.”

“The federal government should not be creating a special class of people, and that is just what they did when they passed and signed this bill,” he added. “All crimes against another person have some level of hate in them, and people can be assured that our laws that protect people against crimes such as murder are sufficient to protect everyone.”

According to The Oklahoman newspaper, only a few senators questioned Russell about his amendment.

One senator who did, Democratic Sen. John Sparks, said the measure could make it difficult for district attorneys to comply.

“This is putting district attorneys in a position to break the law,” Sparks said. “They could be guilty of obstruction of justice if the federal government requests evidence and they don’t turn it over. This language has all sorts of ramifications.”

The amended bill passed 39-6 and goes on to the state House of Representatives.

Seattle Gay News

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INTERNATIONAL Jonathan May

NEWS

by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer

“This bill ... will shift the focus of the law as it applies to faith schools away from the needs of children, towards the religious prejudices of the school,” said PTT Secretary George Broadhead.

A recent study by the Gay lobby group Stonewall found higher levels of anti-Gay bullying in religious schools, Broadhead noted.

“How is this going to be tackled if such schools are permitted to teach pupils that Gay sexual relationships are sinful?” he asked.

Hundreds of thousands at Sydney Mardi Gras Several hundred thousand people turned out for Sydney’s 33rd Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on February 27.

Nearly 10,000 people took part in the parade, and there were 135 floats. One entry featured 150 dancing George Michaels.

Transsexual U.S. model Amanda Lepore led the procession which, despite its overwhelming frivolity, also was a protest against the federal Senate’s recent rejection of a bill to legalize same-sex marriage.

Several hundred thousand people turned out for Sydney’s 33rd Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on February 27

Gay marriage is legal in Mexico City Mexico City’s law legalizing same-sex marriage took effect March 4 and hundreds of Gay and Lesbian couples applied for marriage licenses at civil-registry offices.

The first weddings are expected around March 12 when the couples’ documents have been processed.

The law, which passed the Legislative Assembly in a 39-20 vote on December 21, redefined marriage as “the free uniting of two people.” It also legalized adoption by samesex couples.

By law, marriages entered into in Mexico City must be recognized elsewhere in the nation.

On March 14, a mass Gay wedding is planned in the city’s Cuauhtémoc district.

Local officials said some 300 couples will tie the knot.

Euro Court considers same-sex marriage case The European Court of Human Rights held its first-ever hearing in a same-sex marriage case February 25.

The hearing considered the admissibility and merits of a case from Austria, Schalk and Kopf v. Austria. A decision on those points will be forthcoming.

The court granted permission to Prof.

Robert Wintemute to make oral submissions on behalf of four intervening parties: the European Region of the International Lesbian,

6

Seattle Gay News

Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association; the Advice on Individual Rights in Europe Center; the International Commission of Jurists; and the Fédération Internationale des Ligues des Droits de l’Homme.

Horst Michael Schalk and Johann Franz Kopf are a Gay couple in Vienna. They were denied a marriage license in 2002 by the Vienna Municipal Office, which said people of the same sex can’t marry.

The couple appealed to Vienna’s regional governor and then the Constitutional Court, losing both times.

Their European case argues that in refusing them a marriage license, Austria violated articles of the European Convention on Human Rights that guarantee the rights to marry, protect one’s property and not be discriminated against based on sexual orientation.

The sometimes notoriously slow ECHR has been sitting on the case for more than five years.

UK Gay humanists denounce government’s “kowtowing” to religion England’s Pink Triangle Trust, a Gay humanist group, denounced the House of Commons on February 24 for passing an amendment to the Children, Schools and Families Bill that would allow sex education to be taught in a way that “reflects” a school’s “religious character.”

March 12, 2010

Homophobe appointed Russian deputy justice minister An anti-Gay member of Russia’s upper chamber of Parliament has been appointed deputy minister of justice, GayRussia.ru reported March 1.

Vasily Likhachev has expressed support for the Ministry of Justice’s recent refusal to register the Gay organization Marriage Equality Russia, saying, “The steps taken by the representatives of the Gay community contradict the general state of morality of Russian society because it is not our culture and our form of relations.”

In 2006, Likhachev said: “Already in seven countries of the European Union, homosexuals are allowed to adopt children.

The number of countries where same-sex marriages are permitted continues to grow.

That’s why in questions concerning Gays, there shouldn’t be maximum permissiveness; otherwise, we will go too far and the development of the world will go in the wrong direction.”

He has defended Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov’s perennial bans of Moscow Pride, saying: “City authorities are absolutely right in not following the interests of sexual minorities. There could not be any other discussion here. ... The respect of human rights must not violate the moral and ethical.”

Moscow Pride denounced Likhachev’s appointment.

“The new deputy minister of justice does not consider the rights of homosexuals to depend on the constitution or the law of this country,” said spokesman Nikolai Baev.

“Morals, ethics and the interest of the majority of the population are sufficient in his eyes to discriminate against us.”

Cyprus may legalize same-sex marriage Cyprus is going to look at legalizing samesex marriage, Interior Ministry Permanent Secretary Lazaros Savvides told the Cyprus Mail on February 28.

He said a large group of government officials will meet in March to tackle the topic.

A Gay resident of the island sparked the moves by complaining that his not being allowed to marry his partner amounted to illegal discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Same-sex marriage is legal in Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain and Sweden; in Buenos Aires, Correction Mexico City and Argentina’s Tierra del FuIndia’s Aligarh Muslim University is in ego province; and in Washington, D.C., and the city of Aligarh, not Lucknow, as incorthe states of Connecticut, Iowa, Massachu- rectly stated last week. setts, New Hampshire and Vermont. It will become legal later this year in Portugal.

With assistance from Bill Kelley

NATIONAL

NEWS

Anti-Gay California senator arrested, outed An anti-Gay California state senator who has been a “traditional values” activist was arrested on suspicion of driving drunk in Sacramento on March 3 and subsequently outed.

Sen. Roy Ashburn, R-Bakersfield, had a blood-alcohol level nearly double the legal limit when the California Highway Patrol pulled him over around 2 a.m. after he left a Gay bar, multiple news reports said.

An unidentified male passenger was with him in the car.

Ashburn’s voting record on Gay issues in the Legislature is essentially “zero,” said Equality California Executive Director Geoff Kors.

Ashburn voted against Gays at least 30 times, Kors said, based on preliminary research. He cast at least one vote considered by some to be Gay-friendly, Kors said. That bill, which became law, requires California registered domestic partners to file their state income tax returns as if they were a married couple.

In 2005, Ashburn, who is divorced and has four children, co-hosted a “traditional values” rally in support of amending the state constitution to define marriage as between a man and a woman. The proposed amendment’s language also likely would have nullified the state’s domestic-partnership law.

Ashburn also opposed the state’s proclamation of Harvey Milk Day, state laws that ban discrimination based on sexual orientation, a resolution supporting repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” and a variety of other measures supportive of Gay people. He reportedly supported Proposition 8, the 2008 ballot measure via which voters amended the state constitution to repeal Gays’ right to marry.

The openly Gay mayor of West Sacra-

by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer mento, Christopher Cabaldon, told reporters he has seen Ashburn in Gay bars several times. Cabaldon even mentioned it on his Facebook page several months ago, though nothing came of it.

“It wouldn’t bother me so bad to see Roy Ashburn at Badlands with a boy if he didn’t have such a bad voting record on Gay rights,” Cabaldon reportedly wrote on the social-networking website.

Cabaldon said he also has seen Ashburn at the Gay bar the Depot.

“You just can’t live a double life in politics anymore,” Cabaldon told KOVR-TV. “To live a secret life and at the same time be attacking exactly the people who you’re one of, but that you’re too ashamed to admit, that’s the hypocrisy that I think for folks – whether you’re Gay or not, it’s just unacceptable in politics.”

Kors called it “extremely hypocritical for Sen. Ashburn, by patronizing a Gay club, to be enjoying the fundamental rights and freedoms of association that others have fought so hard for but that he himself has repeatedly voted against.”

Ashburn reportedly has taken a leave of absence from the Senate and apparently has not responded publicly to being outed.

This publication cannot independently confirm Ashburn’s sexual orientation but the San Francisco Chronicle reported, “Capitol staffers say it is an open secret that Ashburn frequently visits Sacramento’s Gay establishments.”

Last year, the Bakersfield Californian newspaper asked Ashburn if he’s Gay. He replied: “Why would that be anyone’s business? Including the Californian’s? I think there are certain subjects that are simply not relevant and this is one of them. It has no bearing on the job I do.”

With assistance from Bill Kelley

Celebrating 37 Years!

NORTHWEST

NEWS

compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer

TACOMA RAINBOW CENTER COMMUNITY SURVEY 2010 The Tacoma Rainbow Center throughout the month of March is conducting a population survey for LGBTQ people in the general Pierce County area. The survey results will provide a more detailed and comprehensive view of the LGBTQ community in the region. Data from the survey will be used to help get funding for programs aimed at the LGBTQ community, and will have the potential for other positive political and social implications for LGBTQ people.

A summary of survey results will be shared. The survey is anonymous and takes about 10 minutes to fill out. The survey can be accessed March 1-31 through a link (“Rainbow Center Community Survey”) at the Tacoma Rainbow Center website, www. rainbowcntr.org, or call the Center, 253-3832318 for other ways to access the survey.

“We want the participation of everyone in the community, and we will accommodate participants with no computer access.”

Women’s Day forum to be held on Saturday, March 13, at 7:30 p.m., at New Freeway Hall, 5018 Rainier Ave. A Middle Eastern dinner will be served prior to the program at 6 p.m. for a $10 donation. A $2 donation is requested. Sliding scale and work exchanges are available. For more information, rides or childcare, call 206-722-6057 or 722-2452 or email rwseattle@mindspring.com. This event is wheelchair accessible. www.radicalwomen.org.

“IRISH FESTIVAL” CELEBRATES CULTURE & CUSTOMS OF IRELAND On Saturday, March 13 and Sunday, March 14, from noon-6 p.m., Seattle Center Festal presents a weekend of non-stop live music, dancing and cultural activities at the Center House. Festival-goers can participate in genealogy and Irish language workshops and take in the colorful cultural exhibits and booths selling Irish and Celtic products. Contemporary Irish short films will be screened during the Irish Reels Film ORCA SWIM TEAM Festival. Family-oriented activities include PRESENTS high-spirited Irish musicians and champion EMERALD CITY SWIM MEET Irish stepdancers from around the Pacific On Saturday, March 13, from 11 a.m.-3 Northwest, along with children’s activities. p.m., the Orca Swim Team, Seattle’s LGBT FREE. www.seattlecenter.com. swimming club, hosts their annual swim meet at the Helene Madison Pool, 13401 “WHACK-A-NUN” Meridian Ave. N. (Registration for the meet FUNDRAISER AT C.C. ATTLE’S is now closed, but spectators are welcome On Saturday, March 13, from 8 p.m.-12 Most weeks the Orca Swim Team hosts a.m., The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, swim workouts on Sundays, Mondays, The Abbey of St. Joan, Northwest Bears and Wednesdays and Fridays at Seattle Univer- Seattle Men in Leather, hosts a fundraising sity. www.orcaswimteam.org. event to benefit Lifelong AIDS Alliance.

Bring a non-perishable food item and get a SEATTLE GAY FLAG FOOTBALL dollar off your first drink. Buy Jell-O shots.

LEAGUE SPRING GAMES Spank a nun or maybe a Bear or Leather Seattle Gay Flag Football League seeks boy. www.theabbey.org. players of all skill levels for weekly Saturday practices and games. Games are curSEATTLE ECSA rently scheduled for Saturdays March 13 OPEN & WOMEN’S LEAGUES at 11:30 a.m. at Georgetown Playfield, S. SEEKING SOFTBALL PLAYERS Homer & Corson Ave. S.; March 20 at 4:30 FOR UPCOMING SEASON p.m. at Lower Woodland Park #2, N. 50th The Emerald City Softball Association’s St. & Stone Way N.; March 27 at 9 a.m. at Open League for Gay and non-Gay men Lower Woodland Park #2; and April 3 at 3 and women is holding a New Player Skills p.m. at Georgetown Playfield. Practices and Assessment on Sunday, March 14, 11 a.m., games are open to spectators. There will be at Rainier Playfield, 3700 S. Alaska St. (at a summer break with pick-up games sched- Rainier Ave. S.) to meet and evaluate new uled during the summer. League practice players who are interested in joining one and play will return in the fall. For more of four skills levels baseball teams in the information, contact Manager Rich at atlas- ECSA Open League. You can also sign up rich@hotmail.com or join the Seattle Gay on the ECSA Open League “New Player Flag Football League group on Facebook.

Matchmaker” roster by creating a new player profile on the ECSA Open League webSEATTLE JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL site – www.emeraldcitysoftball.org.

MARCH 11-21 The Emerald City Softball Association’s www.seattlejewishfilmfestival.org Women’s League for Gay and non-Gay women only is hosting a Play Day on SunMUSIC OF REMEMBRANCE day, March 28, from 9:30 a.m.-noon, for PRESENTS FREE players who are looking to be picked up on “SPARKS OF GLORY” CONCERT a team. Players will run through three drills AT GOOD SHEPHERD CENTER – hitting, fielding and throwing. The Play On Saturday, March 13, at 2 p.m., Music Day will be held at Lower Woodland Ball of Remembrance presents “Sparks of Glo- Field #4, off Greenlake Way N. & N. 50th ry: Fathers” – a FREE concert featuring the St. www.seattlewomenecsa.com. song cycle “Fathers,” with the premiere of a new version sung by Portland Opera mezzo CATHOLICS FOR Angela Niederloh, at the Good Shepherd MARRIAGE EQUALITY Center, 4649 Sunnyside Ave. N. ContemWhen Referendum 71 triumphed in the porary composer Lori Laitman’s “songs polls last November, it was the testimony represent outpouring of great beauty,” says of pro-equality people of faith who helped Fanfare. Here, Laitman explores the father- put it over the top. Despite the stereotype of child relationship combining the Holocaust religious voters as being opposed to LGBT poetry of Sri Lankan poet Anne Ranasinghe rights, the fact is that many people of faith and the work of Russian poet David Vogel. strongly support them. Their message to Ernest Bloch’s “Baal Shem” is a deeply their fellow believers: Don’t act as though touching musical portrait of Chassidic life. homophobia speaks for all of us.

Nazis banned Erwin Schulhoff’s music as Building up support for LGBT rights is “degenerate”; his sparking “Duo” bears the easy in progressive Protestant and Jewish influence of its dedicatee, Leos Janacek. circles. It is more difficult among Catholics MOR Artistic Director Mina Miller intro- because the Church’s hierarchical strucduces each piece. www.musicofremem- ture keeps pro-LGBT voices effectively brance.org. silenced. But John Reardon, an intern with Equal Rights Washington, is convinced “PALESTINIAN WOMEN RESIST that many of his fellow Catholics are open THE ISRAELI OCCUPATION” – to marriage equality. Reardon, who holds A PANEL DISCUSSION several masters degrees in theology and is “Palestinian Women Resist the Israeli Oc- working on a doctorate, argues, “There is a cupation” is the theme of an International big difference between having a theologi-

Visit us online www.sgn.org

cal understanding of how to define marriage and looking at the practical economic and safety implications of having the state recognize all marriages.”

On Sunday, March 14, Reardon will be joining Thomas Pitchford, Director of Development for Equal Rights Washington, and State Senator Ed Murray in meeting with members of Dignity/Seattle, an organization of LGBT Catholics, and other interested people who want to build a coalition of Catholics who support marriage equality and who want to reach out to fellow Catholics who may be persuadable on this issue.

The meeting will take place at Ravenna United Methodist Church, 5751 33rd Ave. NE. It will begin with Mass starting at 6 p.m. and continue until 8:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served; all are welcome.

For more information, please contact Dignity/Seattle at 206-659-5519 or plandtish@ aol.com.

GSBA HOSTS MONTHLY BUSINESS LUNCHEON “MAKING MEMORABLE BUSINESS CONNECTIONS” On Wednesday, March 17, from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., join GSBA members and friends at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel, 1400 Sixth Ave. at Pike St., with guest speaker, JJ McKay, who will give a presentation on networking.

It’s not a lack of opportunity that prevents you from making connections. There are plenty of networking events and parties to attend.

When it comes to networking, what works? What doesn’t? How do you make meaningful connections and leave a lasting impression?

JJ McKay, Seattle’s #1 Connector, is here to hook you up with the secrets to networking success. Learn how to feel comfortable working a room of five or 50. Make those lasting, meaningful connections that can jumpstart business in today’s fast-paced marketplace.

There will be opportunities to move around tables and put JJ’s tips to work!

You’ll meet lots of people and have a great time.

Cost: $32 for members and students; $37 for nonmembers. Walk-ins $10 more. To register, call 206-363-9188 or visit www. thegsba.org.

GAY SKATE PARTY AT BELLEVUE SKATE KING On Monday, March 15, from 7-10 p.m., enjoy an evening of roller skating at Bellevue Skate King, 2301 140th Ave. NE, Bellevue, at this LGBTQ community social event for friends and family. Cost is $8 at the door; $5 under 18. Regular skate rentals: FREE. Inline skate rentals: $4 or bring your own skates. For more information and directions, call 425-458-4707. Next Gay Skate Party is Monday, April 19. www.GaySkateSeattle. com; info@gayskateseattle.com.

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. In March the club will be discussing The Pure and the Impure by Colette. All GLBTQ folks in the community are welcome to participate in this free book club and are welcome to join in at any meeting.

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

NORTHWEST NETWORK’S FREE TRAINING ABOUT LGBTQ YOUTH Are you a youth worker or community member interested in learning how to best support Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer and Questioning youth?

The Northwest Network of LGBT Survivors of Abuse is offering a FREE 3 hour training for people interested in learning more about support for LGBT youth in general and specifically around issues of violence and healthy relationship skills.

This training is perfect for school counselors and administrators, youth workers, teachers, non-profit volunteers, LGBTQ folks who want to learn how to best sup-

March 12, 2010

port youth, youth workers who want to learn more about supporting Queer and Trans youth, domestic violence advocates, Americorps volunteers and community members not affiliated with any organizations who just want to learn more!

This training will cover broad information about LGBTQ youth and youth empowerment as well as practical day-to-day information about what supporting LGBTQ youth can look like.

This training is Friday, March 19, from 1-4 p.m., at the 2100 Building, Board Room, 2100 24th Ave. S., in Seattle.

If you or someone you know is interested in attending this training, please contact shannon@nwnetwork.org to receive a copy of the application. Pre-registration is required and there is limited space available.

206-568-7777; www.nwnetwork.org.

Q-SQUARED BOOK GROUP On Saturday, March 20, at 1 p.m., at the Capitol Hill Branch Library, 425 Harvard Ave. E., the Q-Squared Book Group will discuss the novel The Swimming Pool Library by Alan Hollinghurst. Winner of the Lambda Literary Award for Best Debut in 1988, The Swimming Pool Library was published to sensational acclaim and became a bestseller on both sides of the Atlantic. “Easily one of [1988’s] most important debuts. ...

A bouyant, smart, irrepressibly sexy book ... that has the heft and resonance of a classic modernist novel, the sprawl and surprise of an intimate memoir.” – Village Voice Literary Supplement. Q-Squared Book Group is open to men who are interested in Gay literature and always welcomes new members.

For more information, visit www.qsquared. org.

MEN OF ALL COLORS & CULTURES TOGETHER ST. PATRICK’S DAY POTLUCK SOCIAL On Saturday, March 20, from 6-10 p.m., Men of All Colors and Cultures Together (MACCT) hosts their St. Patrick’s Day Potluck Social. For additional information and/ or location information and directions, call 206-923-8313 or email macctseattle@yahoo.com.

MACCT is a Gay/Bisexual multi-racial, multi-cultural organization committed to fostering supportive environments wherein racial and cultural barriers can be overcome and the goal of human equality realized. www.macctsea.org.

“BATTLE OF THE COURTS” On Saturday, March 20, door at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:00 p.m., join Seattle’s Imperial Prince Kenith Anthony at Neighbours Night Club downstairs lounge, 1509 Broadway, entrance in alley off E. Pike St. between Harvard Ave. and Broadway, for “Battle of the Courts,” a fun evening of drag entertainment sponsored by the Imperial Court of Seattle. $5 donation requested at the door.

“LET’S DO IT” – A NIGHT OF SEX WORKER MADE MEDIA AT NW FILM FORUM On Saturday, March 20, doors at 7:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m., the Northwest Film Forum, 1515 12th Ave., hosts “Let’s Do It,” an evening of films and a panel discussion with Miss Indigo Blue, Mattilda Bernstein Sycamore, Billie Run and Sophia J. Russell and other special guests, to support a local resource guide by and for sex workers. Presented by Bird Cage Collective. Sponsored

by Central Co-op. Plus after party with DJ. RAINBOW CITY BAND PRESENTS SPRING CONCERT – “FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE” On Saturday, March 20, at 8 p.m., and on Sunday, March 21, at 3 p.m., the Rainbow City Band presents a concert featuring the work of Russian master composers: Stravinsky, Shostakovich, Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky and others. Tickets: $15 at the door and through www.rainbowcityband.com.

BOOKS TO PRISONERS PROJECT SEEKS DONATIONS IN SUPPORT OF 2 FOR 1 MATCHING GRANT THROUGH MARCH 31

Seattle Gay News

7

Pope silent on Uganda’s “kill-the-Gays” law

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Pope Benedict XVI gave a major speech to Uganda’s Roman Catholic bishops on March 5 without once mentioning their country’s proposed Anti-Homosexual Bill.

The proposed law provides for the death penalty for “serial offender” Gays and for HIV-positive people who have sex, as well as prison terms for people who fail to inform on Gay friends, relatives, or neighbors.

The legislation has been condemned by many international religious leaders, including the Archbishop of Canterbury – titular head of the Anglican Communion – and even by U.S. evangelical leaders reported to

be close to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni.

The Ugandan bishops were in Rome to hear the pope expound on topics related to their church’s development. The pope typically meets with the hierarchy of each country once every five years.

The closest Benedict came to Gay issues was calling for Ugandan Roman Catholics to support social service workers who “care for people afflicted by poverty, AIDS and other diseases, teaching them to see in those whom they serve the suffering face of Jesus.”

Like other African countries, Uganda is heavily affected by HIV/AIDS. Ugandan

social service workers have said they are concerned that the Anti-Homosexual Bill will make Ugandans avoid HIV testing and treatment so as not to be identified as Gay. Benedict called on the bishops to “encourage the Catholics of Uganda to appreciate fully the sacrament of marriage in its unity and indissolubility, and the sacred right to life.”

In this instance, “right to life” referred to the longstanding Roman Catholic opposition to reproductive choice, not, apparently, to the right of Gay Ugandans to live.

Benedict also urged the bishops “to resist the seduction of a materialistic culture of individualism which has taken root in so many countries,” meaning Europe and North America.

Media observers speculated about why Benedict kept silent about the proposed law.

Possible reasons ranged from the unbelievable – that the pope simply was unaware of the legislation – to the political – that he did not want to isolate Roman Catholics in a country where they are outnumbered by

evangelicals and Pentecostals.

However, Roman Catholic leaders in Uganda have previously criticized the bill.

Just before Christmas, Archbishop Cyprian Lwanga of Kampala, the Ugandan capital, issued a statement reaffirming church teaching that homosexuality is immoral but saying the Anti-Homosexuality Bill “does not pass a test of a Christian caring approach to this issue.”

“The targeting of the sinner, not the sin, is the core flaw of the proposed Bill,” he said.

“The introduction of the death penalty and imprisonment for homosexual acts targets people rather than seeking to counsel and to reach out in compassion to those who need conversion, repentance, support and hope.”

The Roman Catholic Church teaches that LGBT people are “objectively disordered” but should be “accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity.” Since Roman Catholic doctrine validates human sexuality only within the bounds of one-man-onewoman marriage, LGBT Roman Catholics are urged to remain celibate.

U.K. to give South Africa State Dept. reviews Uganda preferred trade status millions of condoms

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

British officials announced on March 9 that they would give South Africa $1.5 million to buy condoms.

The British Department for International Development (DFID) announced the donation at a meeting in London for officials from African countries with high incidence of HIV infection.

DFID said it was “supporting South Africa’s leadership and drive to turn the tide on their epidemic.”

South Africa says it will need one billion condoms this year, more than twice its usual number, because it is hosting the soccer World Cup in Durban between June 11 and July 11.

It will be the first time an African country has hosted the World Cup. South Africa expects some 450,000 foreigners to attend.

Last month, South African medical official Victor Ramathesele told a conference set up by the soccer organization FIFA that the country was preparing for the influx of visitors.

“There’s going to be a large number of

people who will be descending on to the country,” he said.

“There’s going to be a spirit of festivity and … there could be a more than usual demand for measures such as condoms. So there are measures in place to ensure that the condom supply is going to be ramped up during this tournament.”

Like many African countries, South Africa is heavily impacted by HIV/AIDS, with an estimated 20% infection rate (compared to 0.6% in the U.S.).

South Africa also leads the world in deaths attributed to AIDS, with 756,000 reported in 2008 (compared to 22,000 in the U.S.).

South Africa’s new President Jacob Zuma is credited with reinvigorating his country’s response to the epidemic. His predecessor, Thabo Mbeki, denied the link between HIV and AIDS and recommended natural remedies such as beets and garlic in preference to anti-viral drugs.

Zuma has also been criticized by HIV/ AIDS activists, however. As a Zulu traditionalist, Zuma is polygamous, and some activists say his sex life sets a bad example for his countrymen.

Argentina judge nullifies same-sex marriage

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

Damian Bernath and Jorge Salazar were legally married March 3 and legally unmarried March 10 in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires.

The story of their one-week marriage turned on contradictory rulings by two Argentine judges.

On February 23, Buenos Aires Judge Elena Liberatori said the couple had a right to marry, and ordered the city’s Civil Registrar to perform the wedding.

Lawyers representing the Catholic Church appealed her decision, claiming that the marriage would be an “irreparable impediment” to religious marriage rites.

Their appeal was initially rejected, and the ceremony took place March 3.

On March 10, Argentine Federal Judge Felix Gustavo de Igarzabal reversed that de-

cision.

In his ruling, Igarzabal said no marriage took place “because of the absence of the institution’s structural elements” – in this case a man and a woman – and declared the wedding void.

He also said any “legal effects derived from the act shall be suspended.”

The judge ordered the two men to turn in any marriage licenses or other documents they received from the civil registry office within 72 hours. If they fail to do so, they may face fines.

The couple has not commented on their intentions.

Bernath and Salazar were the second couple to be legally married in Argentina.

Jose Maria di Bello and Alex Freyre were married on December 28, but had to travel to the remote Tierra del Fuego province to do so. Unsympathetic judges in Buenos Aires blocked a wedding there.

Igarzabal’s ruling does not address their marriage.

When news of the latest court decision was posted on the Catholic News Service website, one reader commented: “This is WONDERFUL NEWS! Praise and glory to God for this, for He has heard our prayers through His Blessed Mother for the protection of marriage!”

The next reader replied sarcastically: “How Christian to forcibly annul the partnership, deny them the legal benefits, and publicly humiliate them. I’m sure God is smiling.”

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

The U.S. State Department announced March 8 it would review Uganda’s preferred trade status because of the African country’s proposed Anti-Homosexual Bill.

The proposed law specifies the death penalty for “serial offender” Gays and for HIVpositive people who have sex, and prison terms for those who fail to inform on their Gay relatives and neighbors.

In its statement, the State Department called the bill a “serious affront to internationally accepted human rights standards.”

Uganda is currently entitled to preferred trade status under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which authorizes duty-free imports of certain goods from preferred status countries.

One of the conditions for preferred status under AGOA is that the country in question must not commit “gross violations of internationally recognized human rights.”

The State Department also announced it has asked all of its embassies in Africa to report on host country laws and pending legislation that criminalize homosexuality.

It went on to say that the Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor has established a task force to develop U.S. strategy on international LGBT issues.

The State Department announcement came in response to a January 12 letter from U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), chair of the

Senate Finance Committee’s subcommittee on International Trade, Customs and Global Competitiveness.

Wyden had called on Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk to “communicate immediately to the Ugandan government, and President Yoweri Museveni directly, that Uganda’s beneficiary status under AGOA will be revoked should the proposed [antiGay] legislation be enacted.”

Wyden also announced his intent “to amend U.S. trade laws to preclude countries that fail to adequately respect sexual orientation and gender identity as human rights from benefiting from any U.S. trade preference scheme.”

Both President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton denounced Uganda’s proposed law in back-to-back speeches marking World AIDS Day in December 2009.

Obama described the measure as “odious.”

Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Johnny Carson has met with Ugandan President Museveni and reportedly extracted a commitment that the proposed law would not be enacted.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, the Commonwealth, and the European Union have also condemned the legislation and have reportedly threatened to cut off aid to Uganda should it pass.

AGOA was signed into law by President Clinton in May 2000 as part of his initiative to foster African economic development.

MCC to donate $10,000 to Haiti HIV/AIDS organization

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer Following the devastating January 12 earthquake in Haiti, Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC) around the world have mobilized to offer spiritual and financial support.

According to MCC officials, the church’s Santo Domingo congregation, which is dedicated to serving the LGBT community and all vulnerable populations, “was able to fund direct assistance in the form of food, water, basic medicinal supplies, tents, and sleeping bags to survivors.”

Reverend Nancy Wilson, moderator of MCC, announced a further gift in the amount of $10,000 to Housing Works, a New York City-based organization committed to ending the twin crises of AIDS and homelessness.

In operation since 1990, Housing Works, under the direction of Charles King, has recently assisted in reopening three medical clinics in Haiti. Two of the clinics focus primarily on people living with HIV/AIDS and one has a primary outreach to women

and children.

In addition, Housing Works has been able to offer limited assistance in the form of lightweight, mosquito-proof tents to people living with HIV/AIDS who were rendered homeless by the earthquake’s destruction.

“People living with AIDS are on the bottom of the help list,” said King. “We are so grateful for MCC’s generous gift. It will mean that some of the vulnerable and underserved in Haiti will get the basic care and supplies they need to survive, including temporary shelter.”

Reverend Wilson, who spearheaded MCC’s campaign to offer immediate and direct support to the ravaged communities of the island nation, said, “To be left homeless and hungry – in many cases, having lost all family members and friends – is bad enough. To try to live without the medications, treatment, and care people living with HIV/AIDS need to survive is even worse.

We know that Haiti is the Caribbean nation most affected by HIV/AIDS, and we are praying that the gift we offer today will both save lives and build up hope for the future.”

Visit us online www.sgn.org

March 12, 2010

Seattle Gay News

9

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We are conveniently located on-site at Lifelong AIDS Alliance below the Thrift Store.

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March 12, 2010

Call us at 206.568.2486 Celebrating 37 Years!

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Seattle Gay News 11

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March 12, 2010

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Seattle Gay News 13

Over the Rainbow Pride in Seattle 2010

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Seattle Gay News 15

New Hampshire towns vote against marriage equality

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer New Hampshire’s new marriage equality law took a beating when more than 130 New Hampshire towns held their annual Town Meetings March 9.

In most towns, citizens could vote on a non-binding resolution – called a “warrant” – that asks the New Hampshire legislature to put the state’s constitutional definition of “marriage” up for a statewide vote.

The warrant reads: “The citizens of New Hampshire should be allowed to vote on an amendment to the New Hampshire Constitution that defines ‘marriage.’”

The marriage warrant was introduced by Republican state legislator David Bates, author of legislation to repeal New Hampshire’s marriage equality law.

New Hampshire legalized same-sex marriage on June 3, 2009. The law took effect January 1 this year.

Both HB 1590, repealing marriage equali-

March 10, the warrant was passing in 32 and failing in only five.

Several towns had opted out of voting on the marriage warrant during prior “deliberative sessions” in February. Deliberative sessions are designed to set the agendas and review measures to be presented at Town Meetings. ty, and CACR 28, amending the state constiThe deliberative session in the town of tution to define marriage as a union between one man and one woman, were rejected by the state legislature last month.

Bates and other marriage equality opponents turned to the town meeting warrant in an attempt to pressure the legislature to put the state’s marriage law up for a popular vote.

New Hampshire has two systems of town governance – the traditional Town Meeting, by Shaun Knittel and the so-called SB2 Meeting, named after SGN Staff Writer the bill that established the rules.

Smaller towns use the traditional meeting, On March 5, 18 U.S. senators said the in which citizens simply show up at town time has come to change a policy that imhall at a set time and conduct town business poses a lifetime ban on donating blood for in person. Larger towns use the SB2 form, in any man who has had Gay sex since 1977. which citizens cast ballots on town issues.

“Not a single piece of evidence supA petition signed by 25 voters in each town ports the ban,” said Senator John Kerry is enough to put a warrant on the March bal- (D-Mass.), who joined 16 other Democrats lot. and independent Senator Bernie Sanders of About 170 towns use the traditional meet- Vermont in writing Food and Drug Admining, and 48 use the SB2 rules. Fifteen incor- istration (FDA) Commissioner Margaret porated cities do not use town meetings.

Hamburg.

Of the 37 SB2 towns reporting votes on In the letter, the lawmakers point out that the science has changed considerably since the ban was established in 1983 during the HIV/AIDS crisis. Today, donated blood must undergo two different and highly accurate tests that make the risk of tainted blood entering the blood supply virtually zero, they said.

The senators say that hospitals and emergency rooms are in urgent need of blood products, and yet, “healthy blood donors are turned away every day due to an antiquated policy and our blood supply is not necessarily any safer for it.”

Human Rights Campaign (HRC) officials

Wolfeboro amended the warrant language to say “The citizens of New Hampshire commend the governor and legislature for supporting equal rights for all New Hampshire citizens.”

Because warrants are not legally binding, the New Hampshire legislature is not obligated to take any action as a result of this week’s Town Meetings.

Senators call for lifting ban on Gay blood donation say they are hopeful that the policy, last reviewed in 2006, will change.

“The goal is to have policies in place that are based on science rather than any discriminatory idea about our [LGBT] community,” said Brian Moulton, chief legislative counsel for HRC. In 2006 the FDA issued a statement in regards to the policy saying it was medically and scientifically unwarranted. “While the FDA appreciates concerns about perceived discrimination, our decision to maintain the deferral policy is based on current science and data and does not give weight to a donor’s sexual orientation,” read the statement.

However, people with hemophilia, a bleeding disorder, support the continuation of the policy. Hemophiliacs who require periodic transfusions were among the most atrisk of contracting the virus before screening techniques were improved to ensure blood was HIV-free.

Kerry compared the effort to lift the blood donation ban to legislation he backed in 2008 to end the law banning people with HIV from traveling and immigrating to the U.S. The travel ban was lifted in 2009.

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Celebrating 37 Years!

Fifteenth annual domestic violence vigil held

of Christ led the candlelight vigil portion of the event. After a brief moment of silence, Ying asked those in attendance to break the silence by screaming out the names of victims of domestic violence that they knew.

The group then began marching into the courthouse.

The rest of the vigil featured multiple other dance and music performances, as well as speeches by local domestic violence, immigrant rights, and women’s rights activists.

The mission of APIWFSC is to organize communities, educate, train, and provide technical assistance and comprehensive, culturally relevant services on domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking to Asian and Pacific Islander community members, survivors, and their families.

For more information on APIWFSC, visit them online at www.apiwfsc.org.

prom

continued from cover Union told the school board that a policy banning same-sex prom dates violated students’ civil rights, and that not allowing McMillen to wear a tuxedo violated her free expression rights.

The statement did not mention McMillen

or the ACLU. When asked by an Associated Press reporter if McMillen’s actions led to the cancellation of the event, Itawamba County School Board attorney Michele Floyd said she could only reference the statement.

“I am a little bummed out about it,” said Anna Watson, 17, a junior in the high school. “I guess it’s a decision that had to be made. Either way someone was going to get disappointed. Either Constance was, or we were. I don’t agree with homosexuality, but I can’t change what another person thinks or does.”

McKenzie Chaney, 16, said that she hadn’t planned on attending the prom, but “it’s kind of ridiculous that they can’t let her wear the tuxedo and it all be over with.”

Fulton Mayor Paul Walker said he supports the school district’s decision, also noting that, “I think the community as a whole is probably in support of the school district.”

Same-sex prom dates and cross-dressing are new issues for many high schools around the country, said Daryl Presgraves, a spokesman for GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network).

“A lot of schools actually react, rather than do the research and find out what the rights of these students are,” said Presgraves.

james whitely

Participants light candles in honor of the victims of domestic violence

by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer On March 4, over 100 people gathered outside of the King County Courthouse to commemorate the lives of three women and an unborn child who were slain in the building 15 years ago.

The 15th annual vigil held by the Asian and Pacific Islander Women and Family Safety Center (APIWFSC) serves to commemorate all victims of domestic violence, but is focused primarily on the slayings of Susana Blackwell, her unborn daughter, and Phoebe Dizon and Veronica Laureta, friends of Susana who were with her in the courthouse when Timothy Blackwell, Susana’s

estranged husband, saw fit to carry a weapon into the federal courthouse and make unfortunate history.

“Learning from the past, creating action in the present, ending violence through visibility, community and sustainability” was the theme of the vigil. After the opening Indonesian dance, Emma Catague, the founder of APIWFSC, gave a brief history of the vigil.

King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg and King County Executive Dow Constantine shared their memories of the fateful day 15 years ago, when they were just beginning their careers. Both were present at the courthouse during the shooting.

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Seattle Gay News 17

Swimmers strip for Orcas Swim Team auction

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer On March 4, Seattle’s Orcas Swim Team held their first-ever auction … with a twist.

The members of Orcas auctioned off the clothes they were wearing to raise money for the Emerald City Swim Meet the team is hosting on March 13.

“Auctioning the Shirts Off Our Backs…” took place at The Lobby Bar and was hosted by Seattle drag queen DonnaTella. The auctioning off of their clothes was done in the style of a silent auction. Each swimmer – referred to as an “item” – walked around The Lobby Bar with their “pimp,” another team member who would try to entice customers to bid. Each round lasted 15 minutes, and at the end of the round, the auction items lined up on the staircase, poised to strip off an item of clothing.

The winning bidder for each round was awarded an individual photo taken with their auction item, which will be posted on the Facebook event page. Prizes were also awarded to the highest bidders of the night.

In addition to bidding on auction items, many individuals made general donations to the Orcas Swim Team.

“It is really nice to see so many people show up to support our team,” Chad Minnick, Orcas Swim Team fundraiser told SGN. “The money we raise tonight will help us pay for costs that are associated with host-

ing a swim meet.”

Minnick says that competitive swimming is a year-round sport for the Orcas. On average, the team’s numbers swell to over 100 because the demand for swimmers is always present. “Competitive swimming is a unique sport in that although the swimmers are a part of the team, it is a very individualized sport,” he said. “People swim to feel better about themselves, it is very healthy, and you are swimming against the clock, always trying to better your time.”

The Orcas Swim Team is a Gay athletic group, but Minnick says they compete in a lot of non-Gay swim meets. The team is highly competitive, he said. “Because of the high number of swim meets and travel requirements, fundraisers like tonight are very important for us,” Minnick told SGN. “We hope to send some athletes to the Gay Games this year.”

Minnick told SGN the team has always got something going on outside the swimming pool. “After our Friday practice, we have a team dinner with all the people who showed up. We have a lot of social events we go to.”

Because Seattle has so many Gay athletes, Minnick says there is a lot of cross-pollination. “Many of our teammates are a part of some of the other Gay sports leagues.”

For more information, visit the Orcas Swim Team online at www.orcasswimteam. org.

“The money we raise tonight will help us pay for costs that are associated with hosting a swim meet.”

shaun knittel

DonnaTella and a member of Orcas Swim Team

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March 12, 2010

Celebrating 37 Years!

Crowd of 500 turns out for LLAA Breakfast james whitely

University of Washington Center for AIDS and STDs. The award was presented by Carl Behnke, brother of Ned Behnke, who lost his life to AIDS. Dr. Holmes gave a detailed history of HIV/AIDS prevention in the Seattle in regards to medicine and research.

David Richart, director of Lifelong AIDS Alliance, detailed the programs of Lifelong and shared multiple emotional stories of his interactions with clients.

“Our clients simply won’t survive without us,” said David Richart.

Lifelong provides everything from rent money to groceries to its clients, and has programs that reach far beyond simply providing medicine.

The breakfast ended with a fundraising video and a request for support from Maurice James, president of the Board of Directors for Lifelong AIDS Alliance.

erw

the University of Rochester. Friedes’ past work experience includes serving as the executive director of Common Cause Massachusetts, where he focused on campaign finance reform, and a stint in the Peace Corps as a forester. Friedes served for nearly a decade as the political advisor to the Religious Coalition for the Freedom to Marry.

The rest of “The Power of Us” ERW gala was part politics, part fundraiser, and part entertainment. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception and silent auction while listening to Gypsy Jazz musicians Hochi Wichi.

When the conference room, known as the Great Room, was opened, the audience was wowed as Seattle drag queen and burlesque star Ben DeLaCreme started the night off with an eye-opening performance. Notable speakers Marsha Botzer and Congressman Jay Inslee were on hand to remind the crowd of the important work ERW does for LGBT Washingtonians, and of the work that still needs to be done. After the dinner, singer Stefan Paul George and openly Lesbian comedian Judy Gold entertained the audience. A rousing live auction with Judy Gold and ERW Board of Directors member Mike Wrenn followed.

For more information about ERW, visit the organization online at www.equalrightswashington.org.

continued from cover

Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn addresses the crowd at the LLAA Breakfast on March 9

by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer On the morning of March 9, about 500 Seattleites attended the Lifelong AIDS Alliance “Caring for Our Community” Breakfast. The early-morning meal served mainly as a fundraiser, but also ended up becoming an enriching and educational community event for all in attendance.

“Don’t just be the change you want to see in the world; lead the change you want to see in the world,” said Rob McKenna, attorney general of Washington state and the event’s keynote speaker.

Among those in attendance were Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn, who delivered the welcoming speech, and Josh Friedes, newly selected executive director for Equal Rights Washington and campaign manager of the Approve Referendum 71 Campaign.

McKenna’s speech focused mainly on his history in relation to the AIDS epidemic locally and internationally. Beginning with his experiences as a student when he first learned of the gravity of the subject, he went on to detail the work he has since done, and continues to do, as attorney general.

The Ned Behnke Leadership Award was presented to King Holmes, director of the

and selection committee, I’m delighted to welcome Josh Friedes as our next executive director. Through the process of identifying the best candidate, it became clear that Josh’s unprecedented success at building winning coalitions to secure and protect equality for LGBT people made him the right choice as we enter the next phase of our work in Washington state.”

On accepting the position, Friedes stated, “The next few years present an enormous opportunity in the struggle for full equality for Washington’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender residents, and Equal Rights Washington is ready to take on that challenge. Full equality means not only ending discrimination in the issuance of marriage licenses, but addressing a host of critical issues, ranging from meeting the needs of older LGBT Washingtonians to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of LGBT youth and Transgender Washingtonians to strengthening the LGBT movement in urban, rural, and suburban areas.”

Longtime Transgender rights advocate Marsha Botzer, chair of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and ERW board member, said, “While Friedes is best known nationally for his work on family recognition rights, it is his inclusive vision, his understanding of the diversity of the LGBT community, that makes me so excited that he will serve as ERW’s new executive director. Combine Friedes’ vision with his commitment to broad-based coalition building and innovative use of technology, and I think you can see why Friedes is the right person for the job.”

Friedes holds a law degree from the University of Colorado School of Law and degrees in history and political science from

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Seattle Gay News 19

bullying

continued from cover from individual school districts to be completed by August 15, 2011.

• Designation of one individual in each school district to act as point person for antibullying policies.

• Publication of the state’s model policy along with training and instructional materials on the Superintendent of Public Instruction’s website.

• Statewide rules on how the new policies and procedures will be communicated to parents, students, school employees, and volunteers.

• The office of the education ombudsman

will be the lead agency in communicating the new policies to parents and families.

The bill expands anti-bullying legislation passed in 2002 and 2007.

State Rep. Marko Liias (D-21) was the prime sponsor of the bill. Liias told SGN he introduced the legislation in response to a report on bullying by Washington State University’s Social and Economic Services Research Center.

“Washington State University studied the original bill and they studied what is the scope of the problem,” Liias said. “They found bullying affects every school statewide and it impacts every student.”

The SESRC report, issued in 2008, found that while “districts appear to have responded to their statutory requirement to have anti-bullying policies … they do not appear

to be addressing bullying uniformly [and] students and parents continue to seek assistance against bullying.”

The SESRC went on the say that “bullying has not declined significantly in Washington public schools since 2002, based on statewide data.”

Liias first introduced new anti-bullying legislation in 2009, and again this year.

HB 2801 had 11 co-sponsors: Reps Johnson (R-14), Pedersen (D-43), Hunt (D-22), Orwall (D-33), Maxwell (D-41), Quall (D40), Moeller (D-49), Chase (D-32), Williams (D-22), Nelson (D-34), and Simpson (D-47).

Olympia insiders credit Liias for putting together the bipartisan coalition that resulted in a unanimous vote this year.

“We’ve all been pretty fierce trying to get this issue through the legislature,” Liias said modestly, “the sponsors, ERW, all the stakeholders.”

“The key,” Liias told SGN, “was the compelling testimony. Students with disabilities, people of color, it’s not confined to any one community. Anyone who is different could be a target. That’s the message the legislature heard.”

“We tried hard to make sure it was a balanced message,” Liias continued. “Even white middle-class kids who are straight might get bullied because they’re kind of nerdy or whatever.”

Liias admitted to some anxious moments as he steered his bill through the legislature.

“Last year the bill died because of the potential fiscal impact. This year the Senate cut a big piece out of it – a whole section relating to an ongoing body – for the same reason. We worked hard to minimize the cost component this year.”

“The key thing is, this is one victory,” Liias concluded. “There’s a lot more to be done.”

Newly appointed Equal Rights Washington Executive Director Josh Friedes agrees.

In a statement released immediately after HB 2801 passed, Friedes addressed the financial issues that almost derailed the bill.

“To be certain, much work remains to

be done to combat bullying in Washington Public Schools, but HB 2801 is an important step forward,” he wrote. “A key finding of the 2008 report was that anti-bullying programs need to be funded. When the economic crisis lessens we will need to return to address the budgetary needs of anti-bullying programs.”

vatican

continued from cover

The allegations came to light after Italian newspapers published transcripts of phone calls recorded by authorities, who had been conducting an unrelated corruption investigation.

According to the transcripts, in one conversation, Ehiem tells Balducci, “I saw your call when I was in the Vatican, because I was doing rehearsals … in the choir … in St. Peter’s.” He then suggests Balducci meet a man who he describes as “two meters tall …

97 kilos … aged 33, completely active.”

The Italian Carabinieri wrote in their report, “In order to organize casual encounters of a sexual nature, he availed himself of the intercession of two individuals who, it is maintained, may form part of an organized network, especially active in Rome, of exploiters or at least facilitators of male prostitution.”

According to Italian press reports, Ehiem lost his job after Balducci’s arrest and the allegations surfaced.

Ehiem told the Italian news magazine Panorama, “He asked me if I could procure other men for him. He told me he was married and that I had to do it in great secrecy.”

The transcripts show that for five months in 2008, Ehiem procured at least 10 contacts for Balducci, including “two black Cuban lads, a former male model from Naples, and a rugby player from Rome.” Balducci was allegedly paying 2,000 euros ($2,714) for each man he met.

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Celebrating 37 Years!

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Call us at 206.568.2486 Seattle Gay News 23