By Billy Glover
I want to make my comments on the letter from (Rev) Mark Shirilau in the current issue of The Gay & Lesbian Review, in which he says that homosexuals need to have the approval of the heterosexuals (specifically in the case of gay marriage) in order to be happy-that just having legal rights is not enough.
I hope other readers will give their reaction and thoughts. I am not sure this is what Harry Hay and those who followed his thinking on the "outsider" view of homosexuals in society were saying, but I can be sure that it is not the view that the ONE people, who came out of early (the Harry Hay/Dale Jennings, et al part) Mattachine had. They and later we were followers of the Kinsey/Hooker thinking and sought only to be left alone, to have no laws controlling our lives and we wanted privacy, the government OUT of our bedrooms. We did not care whether or not the rest of society "approved" of us.
I wonder if there is a parallel in the black civil rights movement. It seemed to me, and perhaps over time the tactics and thoughts changed, but in the beginning of the main part of the effort to gain equal civil rights for people of color all that was sought was desegregation. That is different from seeking integration.
The problem blacks and homosexuals faced was laws controlling our lives. There was not just societal control saying that black Americans and white Americans could not go to the same schools, or eat at the same cafes or ride on the bus or train in the same areas, there were laws forcing the rule, taking away our rights to choose. Once the laws were removed then it was up to the individuals to decide if they wanted to eat next to someone of a different race. Then slowly as all races got to know each other, there came integration.
As I was thinking of this, I, like others, heard the awful words of President Nixon on the tapes, talking about abortion not being good, except in some circumstances, for instance to prevent the birth of a child whose parents were black and white. I don't think many people are aware of just how "terrible" the public thought interracial sex was, much less marriage, and the fear they had of children having a black and a white parent. That is why President Obam, like Tiger Woods, et al are so important, and show how much we have changed, for the better. And that is the path I think we are taking on homosexuality.
But it seems to me that there is a difference that most of us make on marriage that is civil and marriage that is religious. All Americans have legal rights, as individuals and citizens, but in a particular religion those who choose to follow that belief are controlled by the rules of that institution. We have a right to demand equal marriage rights from our government, but we do not have the right to demand acceptance or approval of our marriage by religious institutions. And most of us don't seek or want religious approval.
Gay Business Magazine Blog Hosted By Echelon Magazine
Monday, June 29, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Frank, Baldwin and Polis on ENDA
“I am encouraged that we are going to be able to do this year what we were not able to do a couple years ago and that is to pass a fully inclusive bill,” said Congressman Frank. “I urge people to keep up lobbying. You can now take for granted that there will be a vote on the floor of the House of Representatives almost certainly this calendar year on a fully inclusive ENDA. At this point it is essential that everybody who cares about this lobbies his or her Representative and Senators. When you’re through with that, go to other people and get them to lobby their Representative and Senators because we have a President ready to sign it, and I think things are well inclined for this to happen.”
“This is an historic moment because I share Congressman Frank’s optimism that we will be able to advance this legislation,” said Congresswoman Baldwin. “It will be the first piece of major LGBT civil rights legislation ever enacted by this Congress. The power of the Congress of the United States recognizing that discrimination in employment exists against people on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identity, and saying that it is wrong, that it is illegal, is an incredibly important thing.”
“Our businesses need to be able to tap into the very best and brightest to compete in a global environment,” said Polis. “Discriminating against people on the basis of race, or gender, or physical disability, or sexual orientation and gender identity, is simply inefficient and puts American businesses at a disadvantage in a global economy. By passing ENDA, we can ensure that American businesses have access to and hire the very best and brightest to be able to compete and build those leaders through those organizations.”
“This is an historic moment because I share Congressman Frank’s optimism that we will be able to advance this legislation,” said Congresswoman Baldwin. “It will be the first piece of major LGBT civil rights legislation ever enacted by this Congress. The power of the Congress of the United States recognizing that discrimination in employment exists against people on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender identity, and saying that it is wrong, that it is illegal, is an incredibly important thing.”
“Our businesses need to be able to tap into the very best and brightest to compete in a global environment,” said Polis. “Discriminating against people on the basis of race, or gender, or physical disability, or sexual orientation and gender identity, is simply inefficient and puts American businesses at a disadvantage in a global economy. By passing ENDA, we can ensure that American businesses have access to and hire the very best and brightest to be able to compete and build those leaders through those organizations.”
Out & Equal applauds ENDA introduction!
Out & Equal Workplace Advocates applauds lawmakers' introduction today of an inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would protect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees from workplace discrimination.
Known as ENDA, the bill, which enjoys bi-partisan support in Congress, would add sexual orientation and gender identity to existing federal employment non-discrimination laws, making it illegal to treat LGBT people unfairly.
"This is very welcome news," says Out & Equal Executive Director Selisse Berry. "Out & Equal has worked tirelessly for more than a decade to assure that the nation's leading corporations provide policies and protections for its LGBT employees in the absence of federal protections. The federal government is now poised to do what major corporations have been doing for years -- protecting employees from discrimination."
As it stands, a staggering 98 percent of the United States' largest companies have added sexual orientation to their equal employment opportunity policies, with 60 percent of them including gender identity and expression. In addition, more than half of Fortune 500 companies offer domestic partnership benefits.
"We all know that not every workplace is an out and equal workplace, and not everyone feels comfortable coming out at work, and there's a reason for that -- a lack of legal protections," says Berry. "We are all hoping that a fully inclusive ENDA will soon be signed into law, providing the essential legal framework that will protect all of us."
Berry says, "We are close to realizing the workplace protections we have worked diligently to achieve. I strongly encourage that everyone writes to their Congressional delegates to show their support for ENDA. With everyone's help, we can play an integral role in the movement that countless people before us fought to achieve and we can now secure by encouraging our lawmakers to vote for workplace equality."
Known as ENDA, the bill, which enjoys bi-partisan support in Congress, would add sexual orientation and gender identity to existing federal employment non-discrimination laws, making it illegal to treat LGBT people unfairly.
"This is very welcome news," says Out & Equal Executive Director Selisse Berry. "Out & Equal has worked tirelessly for more than a decade to assure that the nation's leading corporations provide policies and protections for its LGBT employees in the absence of federal protections. The federal government is now poised to do what major corporations have been doing for years -- protecting employees from discrimination."
As it stands, a staggering 98 percent of the United States' largest companies have added sexual orientation to their equal employment opportunity policies, with 60 percent of them including gender identity and expression. In addition, more than half of Fortune 500 companies offer domestic partnership benefits.
"We all know that not every workplace is an out and equal workplace, and not everyone feels comfortable coming out at work, and there's a reason for that -- a lack of legal protections," says Berry. "We are all hoping that a fully inclusive ENDA will soon be signed into law, providing the essential legal framework that will protect all of us."
Berry says, "We are close to realizing the workplace protections we have worked diligently to achieve. I strongly encourage that everyone writes to their Congressional delegates to show their support for ENDA. With everyone's help, we can play an integral role in the movement that countless people before us fought to achieve and we can now secure by encouraging our lawmakers to vote for workplace equality."
Friday, June 19, 2009
David Unger of Avalon Equity Rumored To Be Sacked
Queerty.com is reporting that David Unger, owner of Avalon Equity Fund has been fired by the SBA. Apparently, Unger, who's company owns a majority stake in Window Media has been trying to sell off parts of his company before a liquidation by the SBA. See Queerty's story.
Window Media is the owner of David Atlanta and the Washington Blade among others. They have recently closed Genre Magazine, but for some reason it still exists on their website.
As this once Gay media powerhouse, along with many mainstream pubs are facing a questionable future, Here Media LLC has just finished acquiring PlanetOut.com and Gay.com completing their merger. They are now the "end all" of Gay publishing after they also acquired Out and The Advocate magazines.
According to my sources at Here, they are doing very well and our sacred publication, The Advocate seems to be in good hands.
Window Media is the owner of David Atlanta and the Washington Blade among others. They have recently closed Genre Magazine, but for some reason it still exists on their website.
As this once Gay media powerhouse, along with many mainstream pubs are facing a questionable future, Here Media LLC has just finished acquiring PlanetOut.com and Gay.com completing their merger. They are now the "end all" of Gay publishing after they also acquired Out and The Advocate magazines.
According to my sources at Here, they are doing very well and our sacred publication, The Advocate seems to be in good hands.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Congressman Frank Corrects Media Reports on his Response to DOMA Brief
Congressman Barney Frank issued the following statement in response to a newspaper story regarding his position on the brief by the Department of Justice about Smelt v. United States.
“When I was called by a newspaper reporter for reaction to the administration’s brief defending the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act, I made the mistake of relying on other people’s oral descriptions to me of what had been in the brief, rather than reading it first. It is a lesson to me that I should not give in to press insistence that I comment before I have had a chance fully to inform myself on the subject at hand.”
“Now that I have read the brief, I believe that the administration made a conscientious and largely successful effort to avoid inappropriate rhetoric. There are some cases where I wish they had been more explicit in disavowing their view that certain arguments were correct, and to make it clear that they were talking not about their own views of these issues, but rather what was appropriate in a constitutional case with a rational basis standard – which is the one that now prevails in the federal courts, although I think it should be upgraded.”
“It was my position in that conversation with the reporter that the administration had no choice but to defend the constitutionality of the law. I think it is unwise for liberals like myself, who were consistently critical of President Bush’s refusal to abide by the law in cases where he disagreed with it to now object when President Obama refuses to follow the Bush example. It is the President’s job to try to change the law, but it is also his obligation to uphold and defend it when it has been enacted by appropriate processes. It would not be wise, in my judgment, for those of us who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, or who sympathize with the fight for our rights, to argue for a precedent that says that executives who disagreed politically with the purpose of the law should have the option of refusing to defend it in a constitutional case.”
“I strongly opposed DOMA when it was adopted and I will continue to fight for changes. I support very strongly the lawsuit brought by the people at Gay & Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD) that make the cogent argument that DOMA’s provision denying federal recognition of same-sex marriages blatantly violates the equal protection clause. And I will work with the Obama administration as they have promised to do to enact laws protecting LGBT people from hate crimes, from job discrimination, and from discrimination in the military. I will also be critical when I think inappropriate language is used. But after rereading this brief, I do not think that the Obama administration should be subject to harsh criticism in this instance.”
The Presidential Memorandum - LGBT Federal Employees
In an Oval Office event later today, President Barack Obama will sign a Presidential Memorandum on Federal Benefits and Non-Discrimination. The Memorandum follows a review by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management ant the Secretary of State regarding what benefits may be extended to the same-sex partners of federal employees in the civil service and the foreign service within the confines of existing federal laws and statutes.
Over the past several months, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management and the Secretary of State have conducted internal reviews to determine whether the benefits they administer may be extended to the same-sex partners of federal employees within the confines of existing laws and statutes. Both identified a number of such benefits.
For civil service employees, domestic partners of federal employees can be added to the long-term care insurance program; supervisors can also be required to allow employees to use their sick leave to take care of domestic partners and non-biological, non-adopted children. For foreign service employees, a number of benefits were identified, including the use of medical facilities at posts abroad, medical evacuation from posts abroad, and inclusion in family size for housing allocations.
The Presidential Memorandum to be signed today will request that the Director of OPM and the Secretary of State act to extend to same-sex partners of federal employees the benefits they have identified. The Memorandum will also request the heads of all other executive branch departments and agencies to conduct internal reviews to determine whether other benefits they administer might be similarly extended, and to report the results of those reviews to the Director of OPM.
The Memorandum will also direct OPM to issue guidance within 90 days to all executive departments and agencies regarding compliance with, and implementation of, the civil service laws, which make it unlawful to discriminate against federal employees or applicants for federal employment on the basis of factors not related to job performance.
Over the past several months, the Director of the Office of Personnel Management and the Secretary of State have conducted internal reviews to determine whether the benefits they administer may be extended to the same-sex partners of federal employees within the confines of existing laws and statutes. Both identified a number of such benefits.
For civil service employees, domestic partners of federal employees can be added to the long-term care insurance program; supervisors can also be required to allow employees to use their sick leave to take care of domestic partners and non-biological, non-adopted children. For foreign service employees, a number of benefits were identified, including the use of medical facilities at posts abroad, medical evacuation from posts abroad, and inclusion in family size for housing allocations.
The Presidential Memorandum to be signed today will request that the Director of OPM and the Secretary of State act to extend to same-sex partners of federal employees the benefits they have identified. The Memorandum will also request the heads of all other executive branch departments and agencies to conduct internal reviews to determine whether other benefits they administer might be similarly extended, and to report the results of those reviews to the Director of OPM.
The Memorandum will also direct OPM to issue guidance within 90 days to all executive departments and agencies regarding compliance with, and implementation of, the civil service laws, which make it unlawful to discriminate against federal employees or applicants for federal employment on the basis of factors not related to job performance.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
California Lawmakers Call on Obama to Stop Violence Against LGBT Iraqis
June 11, 2009 – Forty-five members of the California Legislature, led by Senator Mark Leno and the LGBT Legislative Caucus, have called on the Obama Administration to prevent the persecution of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Iraq. The lawmakers sent a letter to the Administration late last week encouraging the United States to take immediate action to stop the violence against LGBT Iraqis.
Disturbing reports of the torture, beating and killing of LGBT Iraqis have surfaced in recent months as part of an effort led by police officers to “clean up” Iraq by getting both beggars and gays and lesbians off the streets. This year alone, 63 people, most of them men and boys suspected of being gay, have been tortured or killed as a result of religious decrees against LGBT people in Iraq.
“The unspeakable violence by religious zealots against gay and lesbian Iraqis, financed by our tax dollars, violates basic human rights and goes against our purpose of being in that country – to bring freedom and democracy to the Iraqi people,” said Senator Leno (D-San Francisco). “We have called on President Obama to condemn these actions and encourage national and international leaders to apply immediate and necessary pressure on the Iraqi government to prevent these atrocities and protect the life and liberty of all Iraqi people.”
The letter, which was sent to the Obama Administration on June 5, explains that the Iraqi government is violating its obligations as a signatory to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The Covenant states that the Iraqi government has an obligation to protect the right to life and the right of all its citizens “to be free from torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment.”
Forty-five California lawmakers signed the letter, including all four members of the LGBT Legislative Caucus: Senator Leno, Senator Christine Kehoe (D-San Diego), Assemblymember Tom Ammiano (D-San Francisco) and Assemblymember John A. Pérez (D-Los Angeles).
To view a copy of the letter to the Obama Administration regarding the persecution of LGBT Iraqis, visit Senator Leno’s website, www.sen.ca.gov/leno and click on the link to this press release.
Disturbing reports of the torture, beating and killing of LGBT Iraqis have surfaced in recent months as part of an effort led by police officers to “clean up” Iraq by getting both beggars and gays and lesbians off the streets. This year alone, 63 people, most of them men and boys suspected of being gay, have been tortured or killed as a result of religious decrees against LGBT people in Iraq.
“The unspeakable violence by religious zealots against gay and lesbian Iraqis, financed by our tax dollars, violates basic human rights and goes against our purpose of being in that country – to bring freedom and democracy to the Iraqi people,” said Senator Leno (D-San Francisco). “We have called on President Obama to condemn these actions and encourage national and international leaders to apply immediate and necessary pressure on the Iraqi government to prevent these atrocities and protect the life and liberty of all Iraqi people.”
The letter, which was sent to the Obama Administration on June 5, explains that the Iraqi government is violating its obligations as a signatory to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The Covenant states that the Iraqi government has an obligation to protect the right to life and the right of all its citizens “to be free from torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment.”
Forty-five California lawmakers signed the letter, including all four members of the LGBT Legislative Caucus: Senator Leno, Senator Christine Kehoe (D-San Diego), Assemblymember Tom Ammiano (D-San Francisco) and Assemblymember John A. Pérez (D-Los Angeles).
To view a copy of the letter to the Obama Administration regarding the persecution of LGBT Iraqis, visit Senator Leno’s website, www.sen.ca.gov/leno and click on the link to this press release.
Human Rights Campaign Statement on Chaz Bono’s Announcement of Transitioning Genders
June 11, 2009– In a statement released from his publicist, Chaz Bono, the child of Cher and Sonny Bono, and long-time advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality, announced today that he has begun transitioning genders from female to male. Chaz has long been active in the fight for LGBT equality including serving as a national “Coming Out Day” spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign. In 1996, Chaz was part of a group of celebrities speaking out during the Presidential campaign encouraging members of the LGBT community and allies to vote with equality in mind. A summary of those activities can be found here: http://www.hrc.org/issues/3354.htm
“This announcement by Chaz is nothing short of courageous. His decision to be public about his transition speaks to the courage he has in living his life openly and honestly, and will also undoubtedly help foster much-needed dialogue about the lives of transgender Americans and the need for full equality,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “It is our hope that all of us can feel great pride that we live in a country where each one of us has the ability to be true to our own identity. From the time we are born, we are taught that there are girls and there are boys. But like our history, our communities, are rich with people who have blurred, blended or crossed those lines. Chaz is now part of an impressive and remarkable group of Americans who have made our country a better place simply by being true to their selves.”
The Human Rights Campaign is committed to educating the public on issues that affect transgender Americans. HRC will continue to work at the local, state and federal level in coalition with transgender organizations and leaders to secure equal protection under the law for all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans.
To read more information about transgender Americans’ unique experience and the laws/legislation affecting their lives, please visit: www.hrc.org/transgender.
“This announcement by Chaz is nothing short of courageous. His decision to be public about his transition speaks to the courage he has in living his life openly and honestly, and will also undoubtedly help foster much-needed dialogue about the lives of transgender Americans and the need for full equality,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “It is our hope that all of us can feel great pride that we live in a country where each one of us has the ability to be true to our own identity. From the time we are born, we are taught that there are girls and there are boys. But like our history, our communities, are rich with people who have blurred, blended or crossed those lines. Chaz is now part of an impressive and remarkable group of Americans who have made our country a better place simply by being true to their selves.”
The Human Rights Campaign is committed to educating the public on issues that affect transgender Americans. HRC will continue to work at the local, state and federal level in coalition with transgender organizations and leaders to secure equal protection under the law for all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans.
To read more information about transgender Americans’ unique experience and the laws/legislation affecting their lives, please visit: www.hrc.org/transgender.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
TLC applauds response to KRXQ Sacramento
The Transgender Law Center applauds the efforts of Trans Youth Family Allies (TYFA), Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), and the hundreds of transgender community members and allies who responded to hateful comments made on radio station KRXQ Sacramento encouraging violence against transgender children. As a result of widespread listener outrage, the “Rob, Arnie and Dawn in the Morning”show will issue an apology on the air on Thursday, June 14, 2009 Kim Pearson of TYFA and Autumn Sandeen of the blog Pam’s House Blend will appear on the show to address the negative impact of the comments as well as the challenges faced by transgender youth. The Transgender Law Center is grateful for the tireless efforts of transgender community members, our allies, and TYFA and GLAAD in ensuring that transgender children are respected in the media.
“TYFA is a outstanding advocate for the community, and continues to prove that they have our children’s best interests at heart,” said Masen Davis, Executive Director of the Transgender Law Center. “We support them, and GLAAD, whole-heartily in their efforts to correct the egregious comments spoken on KRXQ.”
As first reported by Autumn Sandeen on Pam’s House Blend, KRXQ aired a 30 minute segment of the “Rob Arnie and Dawn in the Morning” show on May 28, 2009 that used defamatory language and encouraged violence against transgender youth. When the show's hosts refused to apologize for their comments, TYFA and local transgender community members contacted the show‘s advertisers and made them aware of the show’s repugnant content. As a result, 11 businesses and organizations pulled advertising from the show, stating that they did not agree with its discriminatory language or advocacy for violence against transgender youth. On June 9th, co-host Rob Williams posted a letter on the show’s website stating that, “We have failed you” and that KRXQ stopped production of the show until the issue can be addressed on the air. The show will air on Thursday, June 11 2009 at 7:30 am on 98.5 FM KRXQ Sacramento and streamed online at KRXQ.net. Williams’ letter is available at http://www.krxq.net/ .
The Transgender Law Center (TLC) is a civil rights organization advocating for transgender communities. TLC uses direct legal services, education, community organizing, and advocacy to transform California into a state that recognizes and supports the needs of transgender people and their families. www.transgenderlawcenter.org .
“TYFA is a outstanding advocate for the community, and continues to prove that they have our children’s best interests at heart,” said Masen Davis, Executive Director of the Transgender Law Center. “We support them, and GLAAD, whole-heartily in their efforts to correct the egregious comments spoken on KRXQ.”
As first reported by Autumn Sandeen on Pam’s House Blend, KRXQ aired a 30 minute segment of the “Rob Arnie and Dawn in the Morning” show on May 28, 2009 that used defamatory language and encouraged violence against transgender youth. When the show's hosts refused to apologize for their comments, TYFA and local transgender community members contacted the show‘s advertisers and made them aware of the show’s repugnant content. As a result, 11 businesses and organizations pulled advertising from the show, stating that they did not agree with its discriminatory language or advocacy for violence against transgender youth. On June 9th, co-host Rob Williams posted a letter on the show’s website stating that, “We have failed you” and that KRXQ stopped production of the show until the issue can be addressed on the air. The show will air on Thursday, June 11 2009 at 7:30 am on 98.5 FM KRXQ Sacramento and streamed online at KRXQ.net. Williams’ letter is available at http://www.krxq.net/ .
The Transgender Law Center (TLC) is a civil rights organization advocating for transgender communities. TLC uses direct legal services, education, community organizing, and advocacy to transform California into a state that recognizes and supports the needs of transgender people and their families. www.transgenderlawcenter.org .
Monday, June 8, 2009
INTERNATIONAL GAY SCREENPLAY CONTEST - 11TH ANNIVERSARY
Hollywood, CA - The ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST, a screenplay contest dedicated to the positive portrayal of gays, lesbians, bisexuals, trangender and queer individuals in film, celebrates its 11th anniversary in 2009. Entries are now being accepted online and are limited to the first 600 for 2009. Executive Director, David Jensen, "We are excited to celebrate our 11th anniversary and are looking at a record number of entries this year. We have even added a new contest this year, The Gay (GLBTQ) Movie Title Contest. We are continually amazed with the quality of talent that comes through the door year after year." Jensen continues, "We receive entries from around the globe and Hollywood is taking notice in a very big way. Many of our past winners are now hard working screenwriters"
The ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST has gained respect and notoriety from Hollywood studios, agents and producers. New for 2009 is another contest from One In Ten organizers, The Gay (GLBTQ) Movie Title Contest. So, even if you don't have a completed screenplay and can come up with a great movie title you can still enter. There is no fee for the movie title contest. Entries for both 2009 contests are being accepted online at: www.OneInTenScreenplayContest.com
Prizes for 2008 include cash, industry exposure and merchandise. The 2009 One In Ten Screenplay Contest is sponsored by: Cherub Productions, Hollywood Creative Directory, www.iScript.com, Brainstorm Warehouse, LLC, Michael Weise Productions, www.ScriptPIMP.com, www.ScriptDelivery.net , www.TopFilmFestivals.com , www.ScreenplayContests.com and Jungle Software.
The submission deadline for 2009 ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST is September 1, 2009. Entry forms are available online through the contest website:
www.OneInTenScreenplayContest.com. Entry forms may also be obtained through the mail by sending a self addressed stamped envelope to:
The ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST has gained respect and notoriety from Hollywood studios, agents and producers. New for 2009 is another contest from One In Ten organizers, The Gay (GLBTQ) Movie Title Contest. So, even if you don't have a completed screenplay and can come up with a great movie title you can still enter. There is no fee for the movie title contest. Entries for both 2009 contests are being accepted online at: www.OneInTenScreenplayContest.com
Prizes for 2008 include cash, industry exposure and merchandise. The 2009 One In Ten Screenplay Contest is sponsored by: Cherub Productions, Hollywood Creative Directory, www.iScript.com, Brainstorm Warehouse, LLC, Michael Weise Productions, www.ScriptPIMP.com, www.ScriptDelivery.net , www.TopFilmFestivals.com , www.ScreenplayContests.com and Jungle Software.
The submission deadline for 2009 ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST is September 1, 2009. Entry forms are available online through the contest website:
www.OneInTenScreenplayContest.com. Entry forms may also be obtained through the mail by sending a self addressed stamped envelope to:
Thursday, June 4, 2009
‘Six Down, Forty-Four to Go,’
Yes On Gay Marriage Director Says About New Hampshire Gay Marriage Legalization
CONCORD, N.H. – When New Hampshire Governor John Lynch signed a bill legalizing gay marriage yesterday, the Yes On Gay Marriage National Director called it another victory for gay marriage. “It’s six down and 44 to go,” Kelley Moran said with six states now recognizing same-sex marriages.
New Hampshire lawmakers passed the final legislation Wednesday with an amendment clarifying churches and church employees have the right to refuse to take part in same-sex marriages or celebrations. The legislation also recognizes gay marriages performed in other states.
“The New Hampshire legislature and Governor Lynch demonstrated their commitment to equality for all citizens of their state in passing gay marriage,” Moran said. “They got it right and we laud their dedication to the American ideal of equality.”
“Our goal at Yes On Gay Marriage is to support efforts in all 50 states to legalize gay marriage and to repeal the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA),” he said. “New Hampshire just joined the growing list of states that recognize separate is not equal. Legislators passed civil unions there in 2007 but realized those are not the same as marriage and wisely went back to the drawing boards to give same-sex couples the full rights, benefits, responsibilities and obligations their straight counterparts enjoyed.”
Yes On Gay Marriage’s main focus is to bring equity and equality to lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders who want to marry, he said. “When a state or the federal government recognizes one group’s rights to the determent of others, that is a clear violation of the U.S. Constitution’s 14th Amendment. I do not believe that is what the founders of this country had in mind when they penned the Constitution.”
Moran said his organization is mounting efforts to battle same-sex marriage opponents’ efforts to repeal Maine’s gay marriage law passed in May. In addition, the organization is supporting the Washington D.C. Council’s recent recognition of same-sex marriages performed in other states. Two U.S. Congressmen have introduced a bill to nullify the council’s action, he said.
“What we are seeing is a grass roots movement throughout the country to legalize gay marriage,” Moran added, “and it is coming swiftly and with growing strength. Of course, with that surge come the oppositions’ efforts to deny us equal rights.”
The New Hampshire measure becomes law on Jan. 1, 2010, which will make that state the sixth to legalize gay marriage, joining Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, Connecticut and Iowa.
For more information contact us at info@yesongaymarriage.com
CONCORD, N.H. – When New Hampshire Governor John Lynch signed a bill legalizing gay marriage yesterday, the Yes On Gay Marriage National Director called it another victory for gay marriage. “It’s six down and 44 to go,” Kelley Moran said with six states now recognizing same-sex marriages.
New Hampshire lawmakers passed the final legislation Wednesday with an amendment clarifying churches and church employees have the right to refuse to take part in same-sex marriages or celebrations. The legislation also recognizes gay marriages performed in other states.
“The New Hampshire legislature and Governor Lynch demonstrated their commitment to equality for all citizens of their state in passing gay marriage,” Moran said. “They got it right and we laud their dedication to the American ideal of equality.”
“Our goal at Yes On Gay Marriage is to support efforts in all 50 states to legalize gay marriage and to repeal the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA),” he said. “New Hampshire just joined the growing list of states that recognize separate is not equal. Legislators passed civil unions there in 2007 but realized those are not the same as marriage and wisely went back to the drawing boards to give same-sex couples the full rights, benefits, responsibilities and obligations their straight counterparts enjoyed.”
Yes On Gay Marriage’s main focus is to bring equity and equality to lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders who want to marry, he said. “When a state or the federal government recognizes one group’s rights to the determent of others, that is a clear violation of the U.S. Constitution’s 14th Amendment. I do not believe that is what the founders of this country had in mind when they penned the Constitution.”
Moran said his organization is mounting efforts to battle same-sex marriage opponents’ efforts to repeal Maine’s gay marriage law passed in May. In addition, the organization is supporting the Washington D.C. Council’s recent recognition of same-sex marriages performed in other states. Two U.S. Congressmen have introduced a bill to nullify the council’s action, he said.
“What we are seeing is a grass roots movement throughout the country to legalize gay marriage,” Moran added, “and it is coming swiftly and with growing strength. Of course, with that surge come the oppositions’ efforts to deny us equal rights.”
The New Hampshire measure becomes law on Jan. 1, 2010, which will make that state the sixth to legalize gay marriage, joining Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, Connecticut and Iowa.
For more information contact us at info@yesongaymarriage.com
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
LGBT Advocates To Gather At NYSE To Launch Pride
For one special day, the NGLCC, NYSE Euronext, NGLCCNY, Members of Congress, LGBT advocacy organizations, and corporate champions will gather in the economic center of the world - The New York Stock Exchange - to celebrate the global launch of LGBT Pride Month. Also joining us will be CBS News Anchor Ross Palombo and cast members of the 2009 Tony-nominated musical, Hair.
Organizational Partners for this event include the Human Rights Campaign, the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force, the National Black Justice Coalition, Lambda Legal, Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, the International Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, and The Center: The NYC LGBT Community Center.
Event Schedule
4:00pm: Closing Bell Ceremony, Viewing from NYSE Board Room
4:30-6:00pm: The LGBT Movement and the 40 Years Since Stonewall, Symposium Discussion
6:00-8:00pm: VIP Pride Month Launch, Reception on the Floor of Stock Exchange
**VERY IMPORTANT: Please note that those attendees interested in viewing the Closing Bell from the Board Room should begin arriving at the NYSE by 3:15pm to ensure clearance through security. You must enter through the security entrance at the corner of Broad and Wall. All participants will need valid photo ID.
Ticket Information
Reception only: $100
Reception and Symposium: $150
Event Registration
http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=734090
Additional Information
http://www.nglcc.org/news/events/stonewalltofederalhall
Organizational Partners for this event include the Human Rights Campaign, the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force, the National Black Justice Coalition, Lambda Legal, Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, the International Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, and The Center: The NYC LGBT Community Center.
Event Schedule
4:00pm: Closing Bell Ceremony, Viewing from NYSE Board Room
4:30-6:00pm: The LGBT Movement and the 40 Years Since Stonewall, Symposium Discussion
6:00-8:00pm: VIP Pride Month Launch, Reception on the Floor of Stock Exchange
**VERY IMPORTANT: Please note that those attendees interested in viewing the Closing Bell from the Board Room should begin arriving at the NYSE by 3:15pm to ensure clearance through security. You must enter through the security entrance at the corner of Broad and Wall. All participants will need valid photo ID.
Ticket Information
Reception only: $100
Reception and Symposium: $150
Event Registration
http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=734090
Additional Information
http://www.nglcc.org/news/events/stonewalltofederalhall
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Evangelical leader says Christians should apologize for mistreatment of gay Americans
Open Letter From Brent Childers, Executive Director, Faith in America
Read the review
We have some very exciting news to share as a prominent evangelical leader has published a very favorable review of CRISIS in a mainstream Christian publication.
In the review entitled "Church-based Hate" and published in today's edition of Christian Century, Dr. David Gushee concludes Christians should apologize for treatment of gay Americans.
Dr. Gushee is a Christian ethicist at Mercer University in Atlanta, author and well-respected member of the evangelical community.
It is our hope you'll share this review with the many people who can gain understanding from Dr. Gushee's words.
His words at this point in 2009 are monumental.
When Mitchell Gold began developing CRISIS in 2007, it was his hope that it could be used to show Americans - particular communities of faith - the harm that is caused when religious teaching is misused to promote a societal climate of condemnation, discrimination and violence toward our community. Our work at Faith In America shows that when people understand that harm, their hearts and minds change.
Over the last several months, we have observed important victories in judiciaries and legislatures.
But those victories will pale compared to the victories we are seeing in the hearts and minds of more and more Americans.
Dr. Gushee was made aware of the harm - and he was moved.
His words are yet another signal that the religion-based bigotry and prejudice that for so long has used against us is today being rejected just as it has in the past when used against other minorities.
When that happens - just as it did in those past instances - the wall of discrimination before us will disappear and it will never again return.
Read the review
Immigration Law Denies Equal Protection For Same-Sex Life Partners
The Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing tomorrow on a bill that modifies U.S. immigration law to provide equal protection to same-sex life partners of citizens and permanent legal residents. As part of the hearing, entitled “The United American Families Act: Addressing Inequality in Federal Immigration Law,” the American Civil Liberties Union sent a letter to lawmakers urging the Committee to pass S. 424, “Uniting American Families Act.”
Currently, same-sex partners of U.S. citizens and permanent residents are denied the same rights as married heterosexual couples. Consequently, gay citizens and permanent residents are barred from activities such as sponsoring their foreign partners for permanent residency. U.S. immigration law lags behind the immigration laws of many other democracies that permit equal sponsorship protections including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Israel, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
The following can be attributed to Joanne Lin, ACLU Legislative Counsel:
Currently, same-sex partners of U.S. citizens and permanent residents are denied the same rights as married heterosexual couples. Consequently, gay citizens and permanent residents are barred from activities such as sponsoring their foreign partners for permanent residency. U.S. immigration law lags behind the immigration laws of many other democracies that permit equal sponsorship protections including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Israel, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
The following can be attributed to Joanne Lin, ACLU Legislative Counsel:
“U.S. immigration policies lag behind other democracies in extending fair treatment of gay couples. Right now, 18 other countries provide equal protection to partners of gay and lesbian citizens."
“As a result of discriminatory U.S. immigration laws, American families, including U.S. citizen children, are being torn apart permanently. The Uniting American Families Act will fix this patently discriminatory injustice.”
CA SUPERIOR COURT UPHOLDS STUDENT CIVIL RIGHTS ACT
June 1, 2009 –Today, a Sacramento Superior Court dismissed a lawsuit seeking to invalidate SB 777, the California Student Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination against students on the basis of race, religion, disability, gender, and sexual orientation. The lawsuit was brought by a right-wing group that specifically objected to protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students. The court held that the plaintiffs had failed to show any way in which the statute was even allegedly unlawful.
“We are pleased the court rejected this attack on the Student Civil Rights Act,” said Carolyn Laub, Gay-Straight Alliance Network Executive Director. “School should be safe place for all children, including those who are—or are perceived to be—lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.”
The lawsuit was filed on November 5, 2008. State Superintendent Jack O’Connell, represented by California Attorney General Jerry Brown, filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit on January 8, 2009. On March 19, 2009, the National Center for Lesbian Rights, Lambda Legal, the Transgender Law Center, Equality California, and Gay-Straight Alliance Network filed a friend-of-the-court brief supporting the motion to dismiss.
Governor Schwarzenegger signed SB 777 into law on October 12, 2007. SB 777 reinforced existing anti-discrimination protections in publicly-funded schools and updated the Education Code so that teachers and administrators do not have to cross-reference other parts of state law to understand their obligations to protect students from harassment and discrimination in all school activities. The bill was sponsored by Equality California, the state’s LGBT legislative organization, and authored by former Senator Sheila Kuehl.
According to the 2001 California Healthy Kids Survey, nearly 30 percent of California youth in grades 7 to 11 report experiencing harassment or bullying based on their actual or perceived race, ethnicity, religion, disability, gender, or sexual orientation.
“We are pleased the court rejected this attack on the Student Civil Rights Act,” said Carolyn Laub, Gay-Straight Alliance Network Executive Director. “School should be safe place for all children, including those who are—or are perceived to be—lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.”
The lawsuit was filed on November 5, 2008. State Superintendent Jack O’Connell, represented by California Attorney General Jerry Brown, filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit on January 8, 2009. On March 19, 2009, the National Center for Lesbian Rights, Lambda Legal, the Transgender Law Center, Equality California, and Gay-Straight Alliance Network filed a friend-of-the-court brief supporting the motion to dismiss.
Governor Schwarzenegger signed SB 777 into law on October 12, 2007. SB 777 reinforced existing anti-discrimination protections in publicly-funded schools and updated the Education Code so that teachers and administrators do not have to cross-reference other parts of state law to understand their obligations to protect students from harassment and discrimination in all school activities. The bill was sponsored by Equality California, the state’s LGBT legislative organization, and authored by former Senator Sheila Kuehl.
According to the 2001 California Healthy Kids Survey, nearly 30 percent of California youth in grades 7 to 11 report experiencing harassment or bullying based on their actual or perceived race, ethnicity, religion, disability, gender, or sexual orientation.
Monday, June 1, 2009
GOProud Praises former Vice President Dick Cheney for His Courageous Comments Regarding Same-Sex Marriage
June 1, 2009 - Today, former Vice President Dick Cheney, speaking at the National Press Club, spoke out against a federal marriage amendment and in favor of allowing states to provide for same-sex marriage. "Vice President Cheney's courageous comments stand in stark contrast to the trail of empty promises offered by the current Democratic administration," said Jimmy LaSalvia, Executive Director of GOProud.
In response to a question about same-sex marriage, Cheney said,
Vice President Cheney went on to offer his support for states allowing marriage for same-sex couples,
In response to a question about same-sex marriage, Cheney said,
"I think freedom means freedom for everyone. As many of you know, one of my daughters is gay and it is something we have lived with for a long time in our family. I think people ought to be free to enter into any kind of union they wish. Any kind of arrangement they wish. The question of whether or not there ought to be a federal statute to protect this, I don't support."
Vice President Cheney went on to offer his support for states allowing marriage for same-sex couples,
"I do believe that historically the way marriage has been regulated is at the state level. It has always been a state issue and I think that is the way it ought to be handled, on a state-by-state basis. Different states will make different decisions, and I don't have a problem with that. People ought to be able to have a shot at that."GOProud represents gay conservatives and their allies. GOProud is committed to a traditional conservative agenda that emphasizes limited government, individual liberty, free markets and a confident foreign policy. GOProud promotes our traditional conservative agenda by influencing politics and policy at the federal level. PO Box 15861 , Washington, DC 20003 . For more information visit our website www.goproud.org
"It is clear that Vice President Cheney's position on marriage equality is superior to that of President Obama and Vice President Biden," continued LaSalvia. "The groups on the gay left – from HRC to the Log Cabin Republicans – should put aside their bitter resentment for the former Vice President for one day and acknowledge the historical nature of his comments."
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