GLBT DIGEST - May 23, 2009

**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.


New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Same-Sex Marriage Ruling Set for Tuesday in California
By JESSE McKINLEY
Published: May 22, 2009
The California Supreme Court announced Friday that it would reveal on Tuesday its ruling on the state’s same-sex marriage ban.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/23/us/23calif.html?_r=1&scp=3&sq=gay&st=cse

Same-Sex Marriage Laws Pose Protection Quandary
By PETER STEINFELS
The movement toward legalizing same-sex marriage in New Hampshire has hit a bump. Gov. John Lynch, a Democrat, said last week that he would sign a same-sex marriage bill only if it included new language expanding protection for religious institutions that might object to same-sex marriage. On Wednesday, the state’s House of Representatives rejected that amendment. So for the moment, the matter is stalled in New Hampshire.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/23/us/23beliefs.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse


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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Liberty U. Drops Democratic Club
Party's Views Conflict With Those of College, Administrators Say
By Anita Kumar
Liberty University will no longer recognize its campus Democratic club because, officials say, the national party's platform goes against the conservative Christian school's moral principles.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/22/AR2009052200793.html

GOD IN GOVERNMENT : The Best From This Week's Blog
Shifting Strategies to Fight Gay Marriage
Opponents of gay rights legislation -- same-sex marriage bills in the states and hate crimes legislation on Capitol Hill -- have shifted strategies, a sure sign that things aren't going well for them.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/22/AR2009052203307.html

When the Stage Has No Closet Space
By Aaron Hicklin
How did a somewhat goofy, family-style talent show on Fox become a bellwether of America's changing attitudes toward sexuality? Adam Lambert, a gutsy eye-liner-wearing Californian with a big voice, did not triumph in the eighth season of American Idol. Would he have won if he were unequivocally straight? That is a question we'll be debating for a while. But in many ways, Lambert was the unofficial winner long before he took the stage last Wednesday to recap his plaintive version of "Mad World," the Tears for Fears ballad that cemented his reputation as the darling of alternative, androgynous goth-ish tweens. His clean-cut, evangelical Christian rival, Kris Allen, on the other hand, was more "High School Musical" than "Twilight."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/22/AR2009052202027.html


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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Tough Times in Tennessee
Amid recession in the manufacturing town of Shelbyville, life has come to this: Americans and immigrants are fighting for what have long been among the least-desired jobs in the U.S.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124301768776347959.html

Michael Kinsley writing in the Washington Post:
In Hollywood, especially, they ought to know better than to try to destroy the career of a professional beauty contestant because she spoke out -- ever so politely and tentatively, and only when asked -- against gay marriage. . . .
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124303202687548559.html


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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Bigot-branding aids gay marriage forces
Here's the thing about homosexual marriage in the United States: It is going to be legal in about half the states. There is no stopping the gay nuptials now, even though most Americans say they are opposed to extending marital law to same-sex couples.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/sfl-borcol-what-m0523sbmay23,0,3347155.story


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Steve Rothaus
http://www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:

‘The Observer’s Eye’ photo exhibit to run June 1-30 at George Hester Gallery at Stonewall Library & Archives
From Stonewall Library & Archives:
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/the-observers-eye-photo-exhibit-to-run-june-1-30-at-george-hester-gallery-at-stonewall-library-archives.html

AfterElton.com: Fox issues ‘non-apology apology’ for comments to male samba team on TV dance show
Michael Jensen of AfterElton.com, reports that Fox has issued a “non-apology apology” for perceived homophobic remarks made to a male samba team by judge Nigel Lythgoe on the show So You Think You Can Dance: The judges of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE critique auditioners and contestants on their overall performance, stage presence, technique and a wide range of characteristics. All dancers are aware when they audition they will be subject to the judges' opinions. We apologize if any viewers were offended by their remarks.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/aftereltoncom-fox-issues-non-apology-apology-for-comments-to-male-samba-team-on-tv-dance-show.html


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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Stonewall Street Fest faces cancellation amid budget woes
‘We’re asking for your help,’ says Stonewall’s director to Broward County community
By JASON MICHAELS
On Saturday, May 16, the Board of Directors of Pride of Greater Fort Lauderdale held an “emergency community meeting” at Georgie’s Alibi to discuss the possible cancellation of the Stonewall Street Festival and Parade, scheduled to take place on June 20 and 21 of this year. Approximately 50 members of the community, representing businesses and individual interests attended the meeting.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/5-21/news/localnews/5863.cfm

Moscow police break up Pride rally
American activist Andy Thayer among detained
MOSCOW (AP) — Riot police broke up several gay rights demonstrations in Moscow on Saturday, hauling away scores of protesters hours before the capital hosted a major international pop music competition. Activists had targeted Moscow, which was holding the finals of the Eurovision song contest, hoping to use the event’s global popularity to draw attention to their claims that Russia officially sanctions homophobia.
http://www.washblade.com/2009/5-22/news/worldnews/14570.cfm


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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

The New Adventures of Old Coward
Best known for The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, out filmmaker Stephan Elliott returns with a revamp of Noël Coward’s Easy Virtue.
It’s been almost 15 years since writer-director Stephan Elliott's The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert crashed into theaters to become an international phenomenon and instant camp classic. After a long, life-changing absence, the gay Australian came out of early retirement to direct and cowrite Easy Virtue, a period comedy-drama based on the 1924 play of the same name by legendary wit Noël Coward. The film, which opens May 22 in limited release, stars Jessica Biel as a liberal American divorcée who marries a wealthy Englishman and locks horns with her manipulative new mother-in-law, played by Kristin Scott Thomas. Elliott lets the behind-the-scenes cattiness out of the bag for Advocate.com and explains what brought him back aboard Priscilla’s big lavender bus.
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid84980.asp


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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Gays turn to DIY projects in economic downturn
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
In the economic downturn that has seen a drop in home sales, gay and lesbian homeowners are increasingly turning to home improvement projects rather than moving.
http://www.365gay.com/news/gays-turn-to-diy-projects-in-economic-downturn/

Clinton’s sax, Pattinson’s lips auctioned for AIDS research
By The Associated Press
(Cap D’Antibes, France) Bill Clinton’s saxophone and Robert Pattinson’s lips have helped a star-studded charity event raise money to fight AIDS. An alto sax signed and donated by the former U.S. president was one of the star lots at the Cinema Against AIDS benefit on the sidelines of the Cannes Film Festival, selling for euro130,000 ($180,000). There was also keen bidding on two kisses from “Twilight” star Pattinson, which raised euro20,000 ($28,000) each.
http://www.365gay.com/news/clintons-sax-pattinsons-lips-auctioned-for-aids-research/



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Daily Queer News
http://www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:

NH: Republicans to Lynch: Veto Gay Marriage Bill, Focus on Budget
GARRY RAYNO | New Hampshire Union Leader Staff | Union Leader
House and Senate Republican leaders say it’s time to put the gay marriage issue aside and focus on the state’s two-year budget. At a news conference yesterday, the Republicans called on Gov. John Lynch to veto the same-sex marriage bill being considered and provide leadership on the financial problems facing the state. Lynch’s spokesman, Colin Manning, said a variety of important issues are moving through the Legislature. “The governor has focused on the budget for many months now and will continue to focus on it and other important issues before the Legislature,” he said. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7257/


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Gay.Com

Third-Grader Organizes Gay Equality Rally
Activists are getting younger and younger these days. Have you heard about Ethan? The Colorado third-grader recently organized a rally to promote marriage equality for gays and lesbians as well as equal protection under the law. Yes, this little boy—with some help from his mom and a teacher—put together a rally for gay equality, getting the necessary permits, finding speakers and making the community aware of the event, which was held this past Saturday in Denver on the steps of Colorado's Capitol. Two hundred people attended. Not a bad turnout!
http://hottopics.gay.com/2009/05/thirdgrader-organizes-gay-equality-rally.html

The Invisible Generation
My friend Louis dragged me to a party of one of his friends, who just turned 21. At the party, Louis had a group of young guys hanging on his every word. He turned and pointed out a man in his 40s and said, "Who invited their dad?" All the boys giggled with delight at his remark as I stood stone-faced and not amused. The generation that blew open the closet door and put out the welcome mat for all of us happens to be the same generation we throw back in the closet to hide them from the world. They are invisible to us. Here are five reasons they should no longer be ignored:
http://lifestyle.gay.com/2009/05/the-invisible-generation.html

Lambert Loses, But He's Still a Winner
Ladies and gentleman, we have a winner! After weeks of nail biting, Kris Allen was just officially crowned the new "American Idol." Gay fans have been cheering on LA based singer/actor Adam Lambert for months now, but Allen pulled off a major upset by overtaking glam rocker Lambert in the final weeks of competition. Now's your chance to talk to Adam. Post a message to him on the message boards below, and we'll send all of the comments in their entirety to FOX next week. Let him know how you feel!
http://tv.gay.com/2009/05/lambert-loses-but-hes-still-a-winner.html


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Stonewall Democrats
Our win in Iowa - and the courageous response of the Democratic leadership in Iowa to the ruling of the state supreme court in Varnum vs. Brien - opens the floodgates for marriage equality. CLICK HERE to watch a special video just for you from Iowa Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal who accepted a Capitol Champions Award from National Stonewall Democrats last week for pro-equality Democratic leadership. http://stonewalldemocrats.org/node/767

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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

In 'Dallas Principles,' Gay Group Calls Obama to Action
By Jose Antonio Vargas
Barack Obama leveraged the Internet to capture the White House -- and now outside groups are doing to same to pressure his presidency. A gay rights movement that began in the streets has increasingly moved online. And last weekend, a diverse group of gay activists, bloggers, Democratic Party organizers and fundraisers from across the country came together in Dallas to discuss how to more aggressively advance their agenda. They believe the Obama White House and the Democratic-controlled Congress are not moving fast enough to address gay rights issues, such as setting a timetable to repeal the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy and passing a federal hate crimes bill that covers sexual orientation and gender identity. After the outpouring of spontaneous grassroots support for same-sex marriage in the wake of the passage of Proposition 8 in California, "the timing is right," blogger and activist Lane Hudson said, "to push for full civil rights for LGBT people."
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/44/2009/05/21/in_dallas_principles_gay_group.html


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Forwarded from Gays Without Borders
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article

Thank you Mayor Luzhkov
Moscow’s mayor tried to crush the city’s gay pride parade. In so
doing, he did the cause of gay rights in Russia a huge service. By Peter Tatchell, human rights campaigner
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2009/may/19/russia-gay-pride-luzhkov


From Slavic Gay Pride:
We wanted to thank the 50 people who made a protest in Berlin at the Russian Embassy today. Also, to the activists of Tapages who in Strasbourg organized a die-in at the Russian Consulate in the afternoon. We also want to thank German MP Volker beck who managed from Germany to ask his Ministry of Foreign Affairs to make a diplomatic action in Moscow early sunday morning with the names of the organizers still detained. We are extremely disspointed that the EU Embassies (UK, Sweden, Netherlands, Finland) which had been invited by the organizers to monitor the events on the spot, concluded that despite witnessing the action, they did not find any ground to make a diplomatic actions. It shows that it is easier to act for the EU Embassies in smaller countries such as Latvia where several EU Embassies brought support but when it turns to be in Russia, things are different.


My good friend and political artist Clinton Fein has made a terrific video of the May 17 solidarity rally and fundraiser for gay Iraqis at Harvey Milk Plaza, in Nancy Pelosi's congressional district.
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/05/sf-gays-to-pelosi-condemn-torture-of.htmlIraq


Refugee Support highlights the plight of lesbian asylum seekers in the UK
http://madikazemi.blogspot.com/2009/05/new-research-by-refugee-support.html

Greens urge EU-wide same-sex marriage
In the run-up to the 4 June European elections, Britain’s two current Green MEPs - Caroline Lucas (South-East England) and Jean Lambert (London) - are backing calls for an end to the ban on same-sex marriage in the UK and in other EU member states. They want EU-wide same-sex marriage laws.
www.petertatchell.net

GIBRALTAR GOVT COULD SPARK INTERNATIONAL STAND-OFF
Referring to the presentation of a Bill to equalise the age of consent in the Gibraltar Parliament last Monday, Felix Alvarez, Chairman of Equality Rights Group GGR has welcomed the fact that “after 9 years of GGR raising the public debate on sexual minorities in Gibraltar, we are pleased to see that Parliament has finally considered the question of age of consent inequality currently in force.
http://equalityrightsggr.blogspot.com/

Behind the Scenes Story Of 2009 Gay Pride in Moscow by Andy Thayer
http://gayswithoutborders.wordpress.com/2009/05/18/behind-the-scenes-story-of-2009-gay-pride-in-moscow/

No black-and-white in gay rights
The west should not lecture the rest of the world on gay rights – we can all learn from the variety of global gay cultures
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2009/may/13/gay-rights?commentpage=2

J-FLAG marks International Day Against Homophobia, calls for country to embrace value of tolerance
Kingston - The Jamaica Forum for Lesbians All-sexuals and Gays joins other human rights organisations across the world in marking the International Day Against Homophobia on May 17, 2009. The theme for the day this year is “Homosexuality knows no borders”. In Jamaica, both the day and its theme are particularly relevant, given the popular local sentiment that homosexuality is unJamaican. It is this feeling, promoted by religious leaders, justified by some in media and exploited by politicians that generally feeds antigay attacks and makes it difficult for gays and lesbians in Jamaica to lead lives where their civil and human rights are respected and protected.
www.jflag.org

DC Blade: Gays need liaison at State Department
WHEN SECRETARY OF State Hillary Rodham Clinton was on her European tour this spring in her new role as our country’s top diplomat, she held a town hall and asked the audience of average citizens for questions. A young gay Moldovan wanted to know what changes she would implement to aid LGBT persons beyond America’s borders suffering human rights violations. Clinton’s answer was succinct. Mincing no words, she said, “Human rights is and will always be one of the pillars of our foreign policy, and in particular the persecution and discrimination against gays and lesbians is something that we take very seriously. It is terribly u nfortunate, as you just recited, that right now in unfortunately many places in the world, violence against gays and lesbians — certainly discrimination and prejudice — are not just occurring, but condoned and protected. We would hope that over the next few years, we could have some influence in trying to change those attitudes.”
http://mpetrelis.blogspot.com/2009/05/blade-gays-need-liaison-at-state.html

Chicago Protest Backs Iraqi Gays
Some 20 protesters gathered at Chicago's LGBT Center on Halsted to show solidarity with Iraqi gays and others targeted around the world for their LGBTQ identity. IDAHO, International Day Against Homophobia, began in Europe several years ago as an effort to internationalize attention to and action against antigay violence. Photos are available at the following URL:
http://chicago.indymedia.org/newswire/display/86639/index.php

“No toilet paper but unity!” Burma does social networking
http://rspas.anu.edu.au/rmap/newmandala/2009/05/20/no-toilet-paper-but-unity-burma-does-social-networking/#more-5366

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Forwarded from Kenneth Sherrill - Ken's List
kenslist@groups.queernet.org

Call on Fox Entertainment and So You Think You Can Dance Judge to Apologize for Homophobic Remarks
On the May 21 season premiere of Fox's popular reality competition show So You Think You Can Dance, aspiring competitors Misha Belfer and Mitchel Kibel performed a samba for the judges at the program's Denver auditions. Though the judges did offer some praise to the men, judge Nigel Lythgoe -- in his on-air and online criticisms of their performance -- made snide, and ultimately homophobic, comments about the routine that have led to calls for an apology to both the dancers and to the LGBT community.
http://www.glaadbackup.com/2009/eblasts/calltoaction/calltoactionbanner.png


THOUSANDS WILL MARCH THROUGH NEW YORK STREETS ON TUESDAY, MAY 26 IN RESPONSE TO CALIFORNIA SUPREME COURT'S SAME-SEX MARRIAGE RULING - ADVOCATES FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY WILL REAFFIRM SUPPORT FOR SAME-SEX MARRIAGE IN NEW YORK STATE AS GOVERNOR- AND ASSEMBLY-SUPPORTED BILL NOW FACES SENATE
www.dayofdecision.org

Rachel Maddow Interviews Judy Shepard
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCPR2Uyak80

Moscow Pride Organizers Claim PR Win
http://www.gaycitynews.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20319074&BRD=2729&PAG=461&dept_id=568864&rfi=6

Nevada: Poll finds half oppose law allowing civil unions
CARSON CITY -- Democrats and independents back efforts in the Legislature to allow same- and opposite-sex domestic partnerships. But because of the overwhelming Republican opposition, Nevadans overall reject such civil unions by a 12 percentage point margin, according to a poll conducted for the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
http://www.lvrj.com/news/45388017.html

Join One Iowa for PRIDE RIDE 2009!
Proceeds for annual ride benefit One Iowa and the LGBT Community Center of Central Iowa.
This year's event is all the more special considering gay and lesbian couples may now ride together as legally recognized partners by the state of Iowa. Bring your family and friends out for a nice ride with other supporters of equality. Together, we'll pedal for continued progress and equality for LGBT Iowans.
http://img.getactivehub.com/an2/custom_images/oneiowa/biking.jpg>

Sex abuse 'endemic' in Catholic institutions
More than 800 priests, nuns, monks and teachers created an "endemic" culture of child sex abuse in Catholic schools and residential homes over almost 80 years, an inquiry has found.
www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/lawandorder/5356720/Sex-abuse-endemic-in-Catholic-institutions.html

Irish State 'colluded with religious authorities to hide child abuse', report says David Sharrock, Ireland Correspondent
www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/ireland/article6328015.ece

Ireland: The Full report on Sex Abuse
http://www.childabusecommission.ie/

Video: New York Gov. Paterson talks Pride
http://www.inthelifetv.org/html/exclusive/patpride_webex.html

National LGBTQ Youth Awareness Week starts May 25!
http://org2.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=HRfV1G1pBb6qmJrGbNMzeRy9jKStsvrP

Online Sex Connections Linked to False Sense of Security
The Bethesda resident and former University of Maryland student who calls herself Amy says she would never consider walking the street as a prostitute. But to her, performing erotic acts for men she meets on Craigslist seems relatively safe, anonymous and lucrative.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/20/AR2009052003762.html

Another servicemenber and $25Million down thedrain....
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/aubrey-sarvis/air-force-boots-their-25_b_205553.html

100 arrested in hate crime raids across London
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12524.html

It's dawning on gays that Obama has no interest in their issues
http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/lgbtlaw/2009/05/its-dawning-on-gays-that-obama-has-no-interest-in-their-issues.html

The Fierce Urgency Of Whenever - Wayne Besen
I lived through eight years of the Clintons and then eight years of Bush. Through it all, gay people were treated at the federal level like embarrassments or impediments. With Clinton, we were the means to raise money. With Bush, we were the means to leverage votes by exploiting bigotry. Obama seemed in the campaign to promise something else. I listened to him in the early days and found him sincere about ending discrimination by the government; and I came to respect, while vehemently disagreeing with, his position on federal civil unions. He seemed genuinely distressed that gay servicemembers should be treated with contempt and persecution by their commander-in-chief, that gay couples should have to fight for basic human treatment - like entry to hospital rooms, or being able to stay in the same apartment as their late spouse, or forced into cruel separation by immigration laws that treat gay couples as threats, rather than assets, or if you had the temerity to survive HIV, being treated at the US border the way Jesse Helms always wanted people with HIV to be treated - like perverts and pariahs and threats.
http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/2009/05/the-fierce-urgency-of-whenever.html

When a kiss is just a kiss?
When is a matter a ''scandal?'' What if it involves two adults doing nothing unlawful or offensive? Jim and Mary kissed on a beach, for example. Or Jim and Jim. What if Jim is an ordinary parish priest? His kissing on a beach is an indiscretion, and a violation of church law. But is it a ``scandal''? You know where I am headed: What if Jim is a famous priest, is, in fact, Father Alberto Cutié? ''A Celebrity Priest's Scandal in the Sand'' read the front-page headline the first day of the story. The story stayed on Page One for the next five days, and the word ''scandal'' appeared throughout.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/issues_ideas/story/1050849.html

Milwaukee: Years After Resigning in Disgrace, Archbishop Speaks Out
http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/g/laurie_goodstein/index.html?inline=nyt-per

HOMO SEX IN COLONIAL AMERICA
by Larry Kramer on Huffington Post
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/larry-kramer/homo-sex-in-colonial-amer_b_205399.html

The new romantics: Should we get the doctor out of the bedroom?
http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/ideas/articles/2009/05/17/the_new_romantics/

She was a man who struggled with that identity, now she's at home in her body and in Lake Worth, as the new city manager
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/politics/content/local_news/epaper/2009/05/16/a1a_stanton_profile_0517.html

Rodger McFarlane, Who Led AIDS-Related Groups, Dies at 54
Mr. McFarlane was the first executive director of the Gay Men's Health Crisis, a group that was an early advocate for public and private research to deal with the disease.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/19/nyregion/19mcfarlane.html?emc=eta1

A new, edgier campaign aims to make safer-sex tools easily available -- and sexy as well
Washingtonians share their District with a virus that refuses to leave. HIV is still here. It can still be fatal. And it's spreading at a rapid pace.
http://www.metroweekly.com/archive/?ad=05/14/2009

Washington: Gregoire expands same-sex partnerships
Gov. Chris Gregoire has approved a measure that gives same-sex domestic partners all the rights and benefits that Washington state offers married couples.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2009233610_webdomestic18.html

84,000 DEMAND OBAMA SUSPEND GAY BAN AS FIRINGS CONTINUE
Pressure on White House Mounts;
Scholars Question Administration's Inaction
http://connect.palmcenter.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=79&qid=3579

On The Hill, Gays Now Find Acceptance ... Mostly
All Things Considered - Listen now:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=104196355

Paying With Our Sins
THE Obama administration's drug czar made news last week by saying he wanted
to end all loose talk about a "war on drugs." "We're not at war with people
in this country," said the czar, Gil Kerlikowske, who favors forcing people
into treatment programs rather than jail cells.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/17/opinion/17gillespie.html?_r=2&th&emc=th

Moscow: Police Violence Clouds 'Best Ever' Eurovision
Russia won high praise from organizers and participants alike for its hosting of the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest final on Saturday, complete with hovering swimming pools, Dima Bilan "flying" over the audience and a live speech from an astronaut in the international space station. But international reaction was clouded by the violent suppression of a gay rights protest earlier in the day that threatened to tarnish a national image that Russia had spend millions of dollars trying to buff.
www.moscowtimes.ru/article/600/42/377169.htm


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Anything but Straight
http://www.waynebesen.com/

Obama's Honeymoon Is Over
There are days when I am infatuated with Obama's very existence. These moments usually coincide with vivid reminders of our previous president. For example, GQ magazine revealed last week that Donald Rumsfeld's presidential defense briefings began with warrior Bible verses. Here is a sample: "Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand." -- Ephesians 6:13.Other times, the mere fact that Obama isn't Bush is not enough. At some point, he has to stand on his own record. The big question for gay and lesbian leaders is, "when can we expect 'some point' to happen and what is a reasonable timeline?"
http://www.waynebesen.com/

Video: Olberman Destroys the RNC's Michael Steele
http://www.waynebesen.com/


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From Kate Kendell, NCLR

Decision Tuesday in Prop 8 Case!
On Tuesday, the California Supreme Court will issue its ruling in our Prop 8 legal challenge. We brought this case on behalf of Equality California and six couples who urgently wish to retain the freedom to marry in California, but the Court’s decision will mean so much more to so many—to same-sex couples in California and in states across the country, to those who advocate for minority rights, and to all those who care about equality. The Court’s decision will determine whether or not Prop 8 is valid, and whether or not the more than 18,000 marriages that took place between June 16 and November 4, 2008 will continue to be legally valid and recognized by the State of California. Any ruling that upholds Prop 8 will be a terrible blow to the thousands of LGBT Californians who have the same hopes and dreams for their families as others. Last May, I stood on the steps of the courthouse and read Chief Justice Ronald George’s historic decision that not only brought marriage equality to California, but that also recognized the full humanity of LGBT people. It was an extraordinary moment, and I will always remember reading these words: “Affording same-sex couples access only to the separate institution of domestic partnership, and denying such couples access to the established institution of marriage, properly must be viewed as impinging upon the right of those couples to have their family relationship accorded respect and dignity equal to that accorded the family relationship of opposite-sex couples.”
http://www.nclrights.org/feed/rss2_0/stories.rss


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Girls In Wonderland Makes Fairytales Come True!
*More than 7,000 Women expected to attend annual Girls in Wonderland / Gay Day at Disney Women's weekend in Orlando, June 4-7
*Miami, Fla.–Move over Snow White. Back off Sleeping Beauty. South Florida's top women's party producers Pandora Events bring a different brand of leading lady to the Wonderful World of Disney. Expect more than 7,000 women to turn out for their annual Girls in Wonderland extravaganza, one of the largest lesbian event in the state, June 4-7 in Orlando.
www.girlsinwonderland.com

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Gay & Lesbian Leadership SmartBrief

Illinois could be next state to add civil unions
Civil unions reportedly are on track to be approved by the Illinois General Assembly, as the result of legislative maneuvering. A committee chaired by out state Rep. Greg Harris is expected to attach the unions amendment to a "shell bill" -- legislation already approved by the state Senate. If the bill including the civil-unions amendment passes the Illinois House, then it would be returned to the Senate for a relatively quick debate and vote.


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HeartStrong
http://www.heartstrong.org
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article

Heartstrong: We are still busy working in Texas. Over the past week we have done
forums and outreach in Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, Houston, Waco and College Station. Things are going very well. On our trip to Waco, we were able to do a campus visit to Baylor University. This is one of the easiest schools to do a campus visit. Each time we are there, we are able to make our way around the campus and leave our materials pretty much everywhere. Many students have come to us from Baylor over the 13 years of our work. So far we have raised $2150.00 of the $5000.00 needed for this trip. So we still have more than half of the money to raise. [...] Looking forward to hearing from all of you!
Marc Adams
Executive Director
http://www.heartstrong.org


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From Transgender Equality
Contact rays.list@comcast.net for the full article

A west Omaha couple says their 8-year-old son has asked for years to wear dresses and change his name, so they're enrolling him in a new school where he can live openly as a girl. The parents say their middle child is transgender, and he's asked to be called girl since age 4. "One night she said, 'Every night when I go to bed, I pray my inside will match my outside. But it never happens,"' the mother said, recalling a conversation with her child.


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Triangle Foundation - Michigan

Hate Crimes Legislation Passes Michigan House!
Triangle Foundation is pleased to report that this afternoon the Michigan House of Representatives passed the Michigan Anti-Bias Crime Statute (MI-ABCs), an important piece of hate crimes legislation that improves upon current Michigan law. MI-ABCs expands current Michigan hate crimes legislation to include protection against crimes motivated by the victim’s sexual orientation and gender identity or expression, among other classifications. The legislation enables law enforcement and the judicial system to appropriately charge and prosecute offenders when their actions are aimed at creating a climate of fear and intolerance. The FBI ranks Michigan third in the nation for the highest number of hate crimes. With Triangle Foundation reporting a 133% increase in anti-LGBT incidents in 2007, the need for this legislation is imperative to send the message that hate is not a Michigan value.
http://www.tri.org/


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Pew Research center
http://pewresearch.org/

A Clash of Rights? Gay Marriage and the Free Exercise of Religion
http://pewresearch.org/pubs/1228/gay-marriage-free-exercise-religion


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#####

FLORIDA DIGEST - May 23, 2009

**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.



~~FLORIDA GLBT NEWS~~

You are invited! ArtsUnited Birthday Party
Friday - May 29 - 6 - 8 pm
Hagen Park - 2020 Wilton Drive - Wilton ManorsTickets at 954-568-1555 or online
www.artsuniytedonline.org


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Stonewall Library & Archives
An Exhibition - "The Observer's Eye"
Photography from the Charles L. Ross Collection
June 1 - 30 - 1300 East Sunrise Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale
Meet the Collector - Monday, June 6 - 8pm
jack-rutland@stonewall-library.org


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The Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus will be meeting in conjunction with the Florida Democratic Party Jefferson Jackson event at 9am on May 30. This special meeting will be held Saturday morning, May 30 at 9am in room Splash 5 at the Fountainebleu Hotel, Miami Beach. This meeting is open to any member or registered Democrat and we'd like to especially invite those in Miami-Dade and Broward to come down and join use for a very informative meeting. To help us plan for the meeting, please RSVP with your name(s) to treasurer@floridaglbtdemocrats.org

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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Stonewall Street Fest faces cancellation amid budget woes
'We're asking for your help,' says Stonewall's director to Broward County community.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/5-21/news/localnews/5863.cfm


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Tickets on sale now for Kinsey Sicks concert July 19 at Colony Theater in South Beach
"America's favorite dragapella quartet" The Kinsey Sicks will be performing their fabulous show "Wake the F@#K Up America" at the Colony Theater for one show only on Sunday, July 19th at 7pm. Ticket Pre-Sale starts Monday at 2pm! (One week ticket pre-sale Now - Monday 5.25.09) $5 off each ticket with the password: KINSEY
Colony Theater - 1040 Lincoln Road - 305.674.1040
http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0D0042AED1EC5230?artistid=1326057&majorcatid=10002&minorcatid=53


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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net]
#####

GLBT DIGEST - May 22, 2009

**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net
and we'll be happy to send the full article.

RAY'S LIST ARTICLES CONTINUE BELOW:

New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

The Holocaust’s European Helpers
Today’s idea: Was the Holocaust in some sense a “European project”? The collusion of non-Germans in Nazi atrocities has been largely unexplored, a German magazine says, and the Demjanjuk trial will shed light on the issue. Demjanjuk was extradited from the United States to Germany this month. His trial could begin in late summer. History | When the last big Nazi trial in Germany gets under way against the aging, Ukrainian-born alleged camp guard John Demjanjuk, it “will for the first time put the foreign perpetrators in the spotlight of world publicity,” says the German magazine Spiegel.
http://ideas.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/22/the-holocausts-european-helpers/?scp=5&sq=gay&st=cse


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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

U.S. House Members File Bill to Overturn Action by D.C. Council
By Hamil R. Harris
A group of lawmakers introduced a bill in the House of Representatives yesterday that would define marriage in the District as the union of one man and one woman.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/21/AR2009052103146.html

For One Night, Baghdad Gets a Pink Zone
By Al Kamen
Change has certainly come to Baghdad. And it appears that includes the U.S. Embassy, where they are holding what the invitation says is the first-ever U.S. Embassy Gay Pride Theme Party next Friday at Baghdaddy's, which is the embassy employee association's pub.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/21/AR2009052104048.html

A Crown of Thorns for Miss California?
By Michael Kinsley
I want the next Supreme Court justice to share my views on the Constitution. I don't care how she looks in a bathing suit, or halfway out of one. Miss California is a different story. Her qualifications, as a general rule, should be up to the people of California. Here in the state of Washington, we expect our beauty-contest winners to be able to split a log and appreciate good coffee. But Miss California's views on gay marriage have nothing to do with her qualifications for the job and shouldn't disqualify her for it.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/21/AR2009052103681.html


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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Texas Mayor Trades Job for Romance in Mexico
By STEPHANIE SIMON
J.W. Lown, the mayor of San Angelo in West Texas, recently narrated a video touting his town as a great place to live. Then he left to pursue another passion. Mr. Lown resigned this week -- less than a month after winning a fourth two-year term in a landslide -- saying he was leaving to carry on a relationship with a Mexican man who had been living illegally in the U.S.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124294991033245475.html


Springtime for Hitler in Germany
'The Producers' is not a musical about Nazism but about the boundaries of taste
By A.J. GOLDMANN
Berlin -- The Berlin transplant of Mel Brooks's ridiculously popular 2001 Broadway musical, "The Producers," based on his 1968 film about two Jewish con men who cook up a scheme to produce the world's worst musical and defraud the investors, was anxiously awaited in the German capital.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124293844545444631.html


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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Maine diocese is violating tax law with gay marriage referendum efforts
By Associated Press
A gay rights advocacy group complained to the IRS that the Roman Catholic Diocese of Maine is violating tax rules by helping a referendum campaign that would repeal the state's new same-sex marriage law.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/nation/wire/sns-ap-us-gay-marriage,0,2375909.story


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Steve Rothaus
http://www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:

Miss California Shocker: Mom's Gay Affair!
From Star Magazine:
Beauty queen Carrie Prejean has become the poster girl for opponents of gay marriage. But in a shocking exclusive, Star has learned that the reigning Miss California USA's own mother, Francine Coppola, was entangled in a steamy lesbian love affair right up until the night Carrie placed second in the Miss USA contest! During the April 19 pageant, Carrie told the judges and a TV audience of millions, "You know what... in my country, in my family, I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman, no offense to anybody out there." That statement didn't sit so well with her mom's new girlfriend. Openly gay sales rep Valerie Vetrano tells Star exclusively, "Yes, Francine and I dated." To read the entire article, click here.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/star-magazine----miss-california-shocker-moms-gay-affair.html

White House says 'don't ask' policy under review
By PHILIP ELLIOTT
The White House insisted Thursday that officials are working to overturn a policy that bans gays and lesbians from serving openly in the military, pushing back against Pentagon assessments that such efforts were low priorities and Democratic activists' complaint of slow progress.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/white-house-says-dont-ask-policy-under-review.html

Gays find acceptance in Mexico City district
BY MAIRYS JOAQUIN, McClatchy News Service
MEXICO CITY -- Bright neon lights twinkle from bars and clubs on the otherwise dimly lit streets of the Mexican capital's trendy Zona Rosa district. Same-sex couples embrace lovingly in public or hold hands without drawing so much as a raised eyebrow. Only one word describes this place, 21-year old Antonio Flores said: freedom.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/gays-find-acceptance-in-mexico-city-district.html


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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Obama fitting himself to a new role
BY DAVID BRODER
No new president finds that every aspect of the job suits him at once; some duties are inevitably more comfortable than others. What we have witnessed in the last few weeks is Barack Obama trying on and fitting himself to the role of commander in chief. The most controversial decisions of this period -- expanding the troop commitment and replacing the commander in Afghanistan, opposing the release of photos of abused detainees, keeping the system of military tribunals and delaying any change in the don't ask, don't tell policy on gays in the services -- are of a pattern.
http://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/other-views/story/1060141.html

Brazil police disrupt neo-Nazi bomb plot
Associated Press
SAO PAULO -- Police disrupted an alleged neo-Nazi plot to bomb at least two synagogues in southern Brazil and are looking into whether the group has international ties, officials said Thursday. Police seized Nazi literature, knives and three homemade explosive devices earlier this week they said were to have been set off at least two synagogues in the city of Porto Alegre, according to police Inspector Paulo Cesar Jardim.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/americas/AP/story/1060613.html


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South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Switchboard of Miami pitches GLBT virtual community center
Organization attempting to reach web-savvy youth
By TONY ADAMS
On Saturday May 16th, Switchboard of Miami’s GLBTQ Helpline head Ed Straub presented a program called “Developing a GLBTQ Virtual Community Center.” The program, held at the Conrad Miami Hotel, led thirty-four South Florida community service providers through a proposal for the creation of a GLBT Virtual Community Center for South Florida. 
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/5-21/news/localnews/5867.cfm

Business on The Drive: new meat + cheap shoes = success
New shopping and dining options for Wilton Manors
By BOB KECSEMETY
Deli delights: The word on “The Drive” is that soon, not one but two New York-style delis will be opening on Wilton Drive. One deli will be on east end of The Drive (which people like to call the “north” end) and the other will be at the western end (which people like to call the “south” end). One will be brought to you by the people who bring you Matty’s On the Drive, and will be right next door. On the west (south) end will be a deli brought to you by the people from Urban Dwell Furnishings.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/5-21/news/localnews/5869.cfm

Justice with a Snap: Miami’s David Young comes to radio
Show will feature wide array of topics
By BOB KECSEMETY
The first openly gay judge on television is taking his law advice to the airways. Judge David Young, known for his two-season stint on his eponymous court TV show, is now hosting his own Sirius Satellite Radio show called “Justice With A Snap.’ It will air on Saturdays at noon ET exclusively on OutQ, the nation's only 24/7 radio channel for the LGBT community, on SIRIUS channel 109 and XM channel 98.
http://www.floridablade.com/2009/5-21/news/localnews/5870.cfm


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The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Happy Birthday, Harvey Milk!
By Julie Bolcer
Today marks the birthday of Harvey Milk. The gay rights leader, who was assassinated in 1978, would have turned 79 on May 22. Born in New York, Milk rose to prominence in California, where in 1977, he became the first openly gay man elected to public office in the state as a San Francisco supervisor.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid85337.asp

Did Denny's Break the Law?
By Andrew Harmon
A transgender woman barred from using a Denny's restroom consistent with her gender identity was likely the victim of illegal discrimination under Maine law, an investigation by the state’s human rights commission concluded this week.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid85233.asp


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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Lesbian student wins $25,000 payout over homophobic harassment
A lesbian student who claimed she was the victim of anti-gay harassment and discrimination at a California school has received $25,000 (£15,950) in a settlement.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12533.html

New Hampshire gay marriage bill stalls
New Hampshire has voted against an amended bill to allow gay marriage in the state. The Senate yesterday approved the bill 14-10 but the House of Representatives voted it down by 188 votes to 186.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12534.html

Prop 8 decision draws closer
The California Supreme Court's decision on whether to strike down Proposition 8, which banned gay marriage in the state, could come as soon as Tuesday.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12538.html

BBC star Jonathan Ross loses live radio show after gay 'joke'
Jonathan Ross's Radio 2 show is to be pre-recorded after his latest controversy over a 'homophobic' joke. Last week, PinkNews.co.uk revealed that complaints had been received after he said boys who ask for a Hannah Montana MP3 should be adopted before they brought their gay partner home.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12548.html

Clinton to give equal benefits to gay US diplomats
Gay partners of US diplomats stationed overseas are to receive equal benefits in plans unveiled by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12542.html

Evangelical groups call on Church of Scotland to back gay minister
Ten Evangelical groups have urged the Church of Scotland to back the ordination of openly gay Reverend Scott Rennie. Rennie, who lives openly with his partner, was appointed as minister of Queen's Cross Church in Aberdeen by his congregation.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12552.html

Texas mayor resigns for gay partner
The mayor of San Angelo, Texas, has resigned just ten days after a landslide re-election victory to pursue his relationship with his gay partner, an illegal immigrant.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12554.html

Stephen Fry: Public anger over MPs' expenses is 'revolting'
Openly gay broadcaster Stephen Fry has waded into the row over MPs' extravagant expenses claims, saying public anger over the scandal was "revolting".
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12560.html

Comment: Is America ready for a gay Idol?
Following gay singer Adam Lambert's loss in the final of American Idol, Omar Hassan questions whether 'Glambert's' sexuality dissuaded voters.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12543.html

Churches to be banned from turning down gay staff
Religious groups are to be forced to accept gay youth workers, secretaries and other staff under new anti-discrimination laws.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12537.html


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Daily Queer News
http://www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:

CO: Comment: Governor Quietly OKs Gay Benefits
John Ingold | The Denver Post
Gov. Bill Ritter this week quietly signed into law a bill that will allow gay and lesbian state employees to share benefits with their partners in the way married couples already can. Ritter signed Senate Bill 88 on Monday, and, as he did with another gay- rights measure this year and one last year, he did so with scant public notice. Reached Wednesday, Rep. Mark Ferrandino, D-Denver, one of the bill’s sponsors, said he hadn’t been told that Ritter signed the measure. Nonetheless, Ferrandino said he is pleased with the governor’s decision, which he said will help the state maintain a strong workforce. “It’s an important piece of legislation that will help make sure the state can attract and retain good employees and compete with the private sector,” Ferrandino said. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7215/


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[Send your comments about articles to Rays.List@Comcast.net ]
#####

GLBT DIGEST - May 21, 2009

**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.

=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Adult Adoption a High-Stakes Means to an Inheritance
By DEBORAH L. JACOBS
ADULT adoptions, an established though infrequently used financial planning tool, have attracted increased attention as a way for gay and lesbian couples to secure an inheritance.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/21/your-money/estate-planning/21ADOPT.html?scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse

Setback to Gay Marriage in New Hampshire
By ABBY GOODNOUGH
In an unexpected move that raised a new hurdle for same-sex marriage in New Hampshire, the state’s House of Representatives on Wednesday rejected changes that Gov. John Lynch had ordered for the same-sex marriage bill.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/21/us/21marriage.html?scp=2&sq=gay&st=cse


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Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Eye Opener: More Postal Woes
Happy Thursday! As if it wasn't bad enough for the U.S. Postal Service, rising gas prices could be its next big challenge. • Cabinet and Staff News: Tom Vilsack makes the case for USDA's relevancy. Hillary Clinton promises equal benefits to gay and lesbian partners of overseas diplomats. Janet Napolitano visits the U.S.-Canada border at Motor City next week. Timothy Geithner says the U.S. making headway in battling the financial crisis. Economic stimulus czar G. Edward DeSeve gives Obama a healthy progress report. A member of the Pawnee tribe who was Idaho’s attorney general is the new head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Interior deputy secretary nominee David Hayes confirmed.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/federal-eye/2009/05/eye_opener_may_21_2009.html

American Idol Gets Crowned
The "American Idol" finale opens with the two remaining Idolettes, Kris Allen and Adam Lambert coming out on stage after having finished painting the dressing rooms. Or, maybe they're dental-hygenist Idols. Anyway, they look creepy in their all-white twinsie outfits.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/tvblog/2009/05/american_idol_gets_crowned.html

Sealed With a Kris
In 'Idol' Upset, Allen's Newfound Stage Polish Beats Lambert's 'Guyliner'
By Lisa de Moraes
Once again, Simon Cowell got it wrong. This time, Kris Allen, the modest, 23-year-old married college student who has worked as a church worship leader, was named 2009's American Idol. He beat Adam Lambert, the 27-year-old, boldly creative, can-only-call-him-"flamboyant" musical theater actor who brought "guyliner" and black fingernail polish to the country's most watched television show and made the audience like it.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/20/AR2009052000638.html

Obama in Command
By David S. Broder
Thursday, May 21, 2009
No new president finds that every aspect of the job suits him at once; some duties are inevitably more comfortable than others. What we have witnessed in the past few weeks is Barack Obama trying on and fitting himself to the role of commander in chief. The most controversial decisions of this period -- expanding the troop commitment and replacing the commander in Afghanistan, opposing the release of photos of abused detainees, keeping the system of military tribunals and delaying any change in the "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gays -- are of a pattern.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/20/AR2009052003029.html

Gay-Marriage Bill Falls Short in House
Reuters
New Hampshire lawmakers voted Wednesday to reject a bill that would have made the state the sixth in the United States to authorize same-sex marriage.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/20/AR2009052003662.html

Gay Marriage Fuels Debate Among D.C. Democrats
By Nikita Stewart
The same-sex marriage debate continued to make its way across the city, landing in Ward 8 on Saturday when the Democratic committee there voted 21 to 11 to support a same-sex marriage resolution drafted by activists.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/20/AR2009052001396.html


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Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Gays Have Served Honorably in the War on Terror
It's time to end 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.'
By BRIAN HUGHES
As a candidate, Barack Obama spoke out strongly against the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy of banning gays and lesbians from serving openly in the Armed Forces. He promised a full repeal of the ban if he was elected. But President Obama seems to be backing down from this pledge. The White House now hedges on the issue, saying it supports changing the policy "in a sensible way."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124286225508241195.html

The Battle Over Benefits for Same-Sex Spouses
Lawsuit Seeks Same Rights Straight Couples Possess; Opponents Fear Campaign to Advance Gay Marriage Nationally
By PHILIP SHISHKIN
BOSTON -- In October 2006, Gerry Studds, the first openly gay U.S. congressman, took his dog out for a morning walk and collapsed with a blood clot in his lung. He died a few days later.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124285325940940677.html

The Latest Battle in the Same-Sex Marriage War
By Ashby Jones
To date, the more heated and visible battles over same-sex marriage have played out at the state level, either in courtrooms, at the ballot-box or in legislative halls. But an interesting battle is now brewing at the federal level. The question is this: does the 1996 federal Defense of Marriage Act, which defines marriage as a union of one man and one woman, require the government to ignore same-sex marriage even if a state chooses to recognize them?
http://blogs.wsj.com/law/2009/05/21/another-battle-in-the-same-sex-marriage-war/


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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Disenchantment with GOP is growing
By Kathleen Parker at kparker@kparker.com.
It's not yet clear how the one-armed midget demographic is shaping up, but everybody else seems to be bailing on the GOP. Begging the forgiveness of one-armed midgets, I'm merely quoting Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele. In a Washington Times interview shortly after being elected head of the GOP, Steele met Howard Dean's gays/guns/God challenge and raised him a jackpot of grief.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/sfl-21parkersbmay21,0,1972068.story

Mural memorializes victims of anti-gay crimes
FALLAN PATTERSON
In March 2007, Scott Hall watched as a news report flashed across his television screen about the murder of 25-year-old Polk County resident Ryan Skipper, who was targeted by two men for being homosexual.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/community/news/fort_lauderdale/sfl-flhrbheroes0521esbmay21,0,1030444.story

Condos are a great buy, but look before you leap
Bargain hunters such as Economou are driving condo sales as the median prices in Palm Beach and Broward counties have tumbled below $100,000, prices not seen since 2003. Still, condo mortgages are harder to get these days, the result of new lending policies that reduce the pool of qualified borrowers and limit them to buildings that have been left mostly unscathed by the housing bust.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/features/time-money/home/sfl-condo-sales-052009sbmay21,0,3488451.story


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Steve Rothaus
http://www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:

Reader outraged that American Idol voters chose ‘Sunday school kid’ Kris Allen, not ‘talented gay kid’ Adam Lambert
An e-mail commentary I received today from Laurie Allen, executive director of Florida Circus Art School in North Miami Beach:
Mr. Rothaus, I know that Howard Cohen writes the American Idol update for The Herald and Leonard Pitts Jr. pens the heart-wrenching stories about prejudice, but I wish you would write about the homophobia that resulted in the upset on American Idol.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/reader-outraged-that-american-idol-voters-chose-sunday-school-kid-not-a-talented-gay-kid.html

Drag it Out gay charities benefit May 24 at Cinema Paradiso in Fort Lauderdale
Dear Friend of SSSF, We at Safe Schools wish to reminder all of our friends and supporters of this upcoming benefit. This popular benefit raises needed funds for local non-profits including Safe Schools South Florida. Please pass this invitation along to other friends and supporters.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/drag-it-out-gay-charities-benefit-may-24-at-cinema-paradiso-in-fort-lauderdale.html

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund hails introduction of federal Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act
News release from the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force: The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund hails the introduction of the Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act in the U.S. Congress. This legislation would provide domestic partner benefits for federal employees and their partners. The bill was introduced by U.S. Reps. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.) and U.S. Senators Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) and Susan Collins (R-ME).
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/national-gay-and-lesbian-task-force-action-fund-hails-introduction-of-federal-domestic-partnership-benefits-and-obligations-a.html

Howard Cohen: Real star Adam Lambert eclipsed in 'American Idol' upset
By HOWARD COHEN
America wasn't ready for Adam Lambert. With nearly 100 million votes coming in for the eighth season showdown of American Idol, clean cut Arkansas boy Kris Allen, 23, dubbed the ''dark horse'' weeks ago by new judge Kara DioGuardi, took the title from the most talked-about contestant in years. Howard Cohen: Real star Adam Lambert eclipsed in 'American Idol' upset With nearly 100 million votes coming in for the eighth season showdown of American Idol, clean cut Arkansas boy Kris Allen, 23, dubbed the ''dark horse'' weeks ago by new judge Kara DioGuardi, took the title from the most talked-about contestant in years. America wasn't ready for Adam Lambert. With nearly 100 million votes coming in for the eighth season showdown of American Idol, clean cut Arkansas boy Kris Allen, 23, dubbed the ''dark horse'' weeks ago by new judge Kara DioGuardi, took the title from the most talked-about contestant in years.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/howard-cohen-real-star-adam-lambert-eclipsed-in-american-idol-upset.html

ACLU: School censored student's Milk report
By LISA LEFF
The American Civil Liberties Union on Wednesday threatened to sue a San Diego County school that refused to let a student present a report on slain gay rights leader Harvey Milk until her classmates got their parents' permission to hear it.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/aclu-school-censored-students-milk-report.html

Gay marriage in DC moves debate to black community
By BRIAN WESTLEY and GILLIAN GAYNAIR
In the District of Columbia, where African-Americans are the majority and black congregations dominate, the recent vote to recognize same-sex marriages may signal the gay rights movement is making inroads among groups traditionally opposed to it.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/gay-marriage-in-dc-moves-debate-to-black-community.html

Matthew Shepard’s mother, Judy, meets with President Barack Obama in the Oval Office
From HRC: According to the White House this photo is, “following a meeting the President had with Judy Shepard in the Oval Office today. The President thanked Ms. Shepard for her work on the hate crimes bill and reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the Senate finalize the bill and act swiftly.”
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/matthew-shepards-mother-judy-meets-with-president-barack-obama-in-the-oval-office.html


=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Amazing Luke
Reichen Lemhkuhl and then-partner Chip Arndt won season 4 of The Amazing Race, and now a second gay man has finished in the top three. But Luke Adams was known to viewers not for being gay ... but for being deaf. Amazing racers Luke Adams and his mom, Margie Reichen Lemhkuhl and then-partner Chip Arndt won season 4 of The Amazing Race, and now a second gay man has finished in the top three. But Luke Adams was known to viewers not for being gay ... but for being deaf.
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid84747.asp


=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

ACLU: School censored student report on Harvey Milk
By The Associated Press
The American Civil Liberties Union is threatening to sue a San Diego County school that refused to let a student present a report on slain gay rights leader Harvey Milk until her classmates got their parents' permission to hear it. Read more...
http://www.365gay.com/news/aclu-school-censored-student-report-on-harvey-milk/

Bill would give benefits to same-sex partners of federal workers
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
Legislation has been introduced in the the House and Senate to provide benefits for same-sex domestic partners of federal civilian employees on the same basis as spousal benefits.
http://www.365gay.com/news/bill-would-give-benefits-to-same-sex-partners-of-federal-workers/

RachelWatch: Lie of Newt
By Ali Davis
Rachel led off with the news that President Obama had an off-the-record meeting with leaders of human rights and civil liberties groups, who are none too pleased with the President’s sudden attacks of Dubyosity.
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-lie-of-newt/


=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Churches to be banned from turning down gay staff
Religious groups are to be forced to accept gay youth workers, secretaries and other staff under new anti-discrimination laws.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12537.html

Ruth Kelly claimed thousands of pounds for flood damage despite having home insurance
Former Equality Minister Ruth Kelly claimed thousands of pounds for water damage caused by a burst pipe, despite having home insurance at the time.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12535.html

BNP leader Nick Griffin to attend Queen's summer garden party
BNP member Richard Barnbrook and party leader Nick Griffin are among the guests at a summer garden party to be hosted by the Queen.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12539.html

Trevor Phillips acknowledges 'intense hurt' caused by Evangelical appointment
Trevor Phillips, chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, has acknowledged the anger felt by LGBT groups at the appointment of Evangelical leader and gay rights critic Joel Edwards to the organisation.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12540.html

Prop 8 decision draws closer
The California Supreme Court's decision on whether to strike down Proposition 8, which banned gay marriage in the state, could come as soon as Tuesday.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12538.html

New Hampshire gay marriage bill stalls
New Hampshire has voted against an amended bill to allow gay marriage in the state. The Senate yesterday approved the bill 14-10 but the House of Representatives voted it down by 188 votes to 186.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12534.html

Lesbian student wins $25,000 payout over homophobic harassment
A lesbian student who claimed she was the victim of anti-gay harassment and discrimination at a California school has received $25,000 (£15,950) in a settlement.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12533.html

Maine drafts ballot question for possible gay marriage referendum
Election officials in Maine have drafted the question which will appear on ballot papers if opponents gather enough signatures to call a referendum on the state's recent decision to legalise gay marriage.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12532.html

Pentagon: 'No plans to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell'
The Pentagon said yesterday there are no plans to repeal Don't Ask, Don't Tell, the directive that bans gays from serving openly in the military.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12531.html

Gay domestic violence campaign to be launched at Birmingham Pride
A new campaign is urging gay and lesbian victims of domestic violence to report it to the police. 'Unzip the Silence' is to be launched at Birmingham Pride this weekend.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12529.html


=
Daily Queer News
http://www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:

NE: Rainbow Celebrations Update
Upcoming Events Check it Out Today
April 24, 2009, A night of unconventional fun!
Connections, 1901 Leavenworth Street.
8PM April 25, 2009, Grand Marshal Announcement and Show
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7209/

Does Obama Have Enough Political Capital to Nominate a Lesbina for the Supreme Court?
Michael A. Jones | Change.org
Two of the ugliest words in politics (imho) are “political capital,” because they generally are used when a group is about to be thrown under the bus. We’ve heard it used in debates about overturning “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” as well as when it comes to other LGBT rights issues, like repealing the Defense of Marriage Act. Now we’re seeing the phrase used once again, in commentary about who President Obama will pick to replace Justice David Souter on the U.S. Supreme Court. Justice Souter announced his retirement last week, and now the vultures are circling, trying to decipher who Obama might pick. There’s Sotomayor, Kagan, Granholm, Wood, Wardlaw and a host of others that folks are talking about. But gay rights groups, including the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund and EqualRep.com, are hailing another potential candidate who should shatter the glass ceiling when it comes to the “all-straight” club known as the U.S. Supreme Court. Her name is Kathleen Sullivan. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7208/

A Marijuana Tax As the Next New Revenue Stream?
Michael B. Farrell | Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor
San Francisco - Are Americans really ready to consider legalizing marijuana? This week, California’s governor said it was time to debate the issue, and a new nationwide poll suggests a majority of voters favor decriminalizing the drug. While legalization advocates say they’ve never seen such widespread public support for reforming marijuana laws, they still don’t expect drug policy to change overnight. But, they say, the country appears to be at tipping point in how it views recreational use of marijuana, which is now legal in 13 states for medically-approved use. “We are actually talking about historic highs when it comes to public support of taxing and regulating marijuana for adult consumption,” says Paul Armentano, deputy director of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML). But, he adds, “the most difficult task is how you convert public sentiment into public policy.” Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7207/

Big Wolf Expeditions Launches Multisport Adventure Tour Company and Highlights the Green in the LGBT Rainbow Flag
For Immediate Release: Big Wolf Expeditions Launches Multisport Adventure Tour Company And Highlights The Green in the LGBT Rainbow Flag.
Big Wolf Expeditions proudly announces its first set of adventurous trip offerings to the LGBT community. The company’s goal is to provide active gay and lesbian travelers the opportunity to participate in a variety of adventure sports around the world, while helping planet Earth. The company will provide a mix of activities on each trip so that gay / lesbian outdoor enthusiasts have the opportunity to not only enjoy nature and cultures, but also learn a new activity sport from dedicated professionals.
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7204/


=

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#####

GLBT DIGEST - May 20, 2009

**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.

=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Gay Marriage Slow to Draw an Opposition in New York
By Jennifer 8. Lee
As the Legislature considers whether to make New York the next state to legalize same-sex marriage, social conservatives say they feel outgunned and underfinanced.
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/20/gay-marriage-slow-to-draw-an-opposition-in-ny/?scp=3&sq=gay&st=cse


=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Steele, but No Magnet
By Kathleen Parker
It's not yet clear how the one-armed-midget demographic is shaping up, but everybody else seems to be bailing on the GOP.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/19/AR2009051902839.html

Mass. campaign urges Obama to nix gay marriage ban
The Associated Press
Gay marriage supporters in Massachusetts are urging President Barack Obama to honor a campaign promise to seek repeal of the federal Defense of Marriage Act.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/20/AR2009052000133.html


=
South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

HIV immigrant ban complicates Cuban’s asylum request
Attorney says gay man faces persecution, quarantine
By LOU CHIBBARO JR
Raul Hernandez, a gay man who defected from Cuba in 1993 to live in Brazil, had hoped to obtain permanent U.S. residency under the 1966 Cuban Adjustment Act after he arrived in 2000.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=25461


=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Marriage Foes Come Late to N.Y. Debate
Click the byline to view more stories by this author.By Julie Bolcer
Social conservatives, often the animating force of marriage-equality opposition nationwide, have been slow to engage the debate on same-sex marriage legislation in New York and the surrounding Northeast states, says an article in The New York Times on Wednesday. The story posits that same-sex marriage opponents, who are accustomed to statewide ballot propositions and referendums, are confounded when presented with the different task of lobbying legislatures, as in Vermont, Maine,New Hampshire, and New York.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid84832.asp

DP Benefits OK’d for Pa. Employees
Click the byline to view more stories by this author.By Julie Bolcer
Beginning in July, same-sex partners of Pennsylvania state employees who have lived together for at least six months will be eligible for full healthcare benefits, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. The Pennsylvania Employees Benefits Trust Fund approved the policy unanimously in September after four years of review, including a cost-estimate study.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid84816.asp


=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Will Obama flip flop on gay marriage?
By 365gay
Fears are mounting that the Obama administration is about to flip-flop on its opposition to the Federal Defense of Marriage Act. Last March, a federal lawsuit was filed in Boston challenging the law which bars the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriage. The Justice Department has until June 22 to respond to the lawsuit. So far there has been no comment from either the department or the White House.
http://www.365gay.com/news/will-obama-flip-flop-on-gay-marriage/

Gay Pride hit by recession cutbacks
By The Associated Press
The leaders of the “Sunday Out” festival watched thousands brighten a gray day in early May by celebrating in the wet Philadelphia streets with multicolored umbrellas, rainbow-hued hats and colorful necklaces in the name of gay pride.
http://www.365gay.com/news/gay-pride-hit-by-recession-cutbacks/

Obama Court nominee to be asked about gay rights
By The Associated Press
Questions about abortion, gay rights, rights of suspected terrorists and the meaning of a new judicial buzz word - empathy - await President Barack Obama’s eventual Supreme Court nominee. Just don’t expect much in the way of answers.
http://www.365gay.com/news/obama-court-nominee-to-be-asked-about-gay-rights/

Ruby-Sachs: Obama, Don’t Defend DOMA
By Emma Ruby-Sachs
Two weeks ago, the Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD - the group that brought you gay marriage in Massachusetts) served Obama’s administration with a lawsuit that challenges Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act. Their argument is simple: DOMA treats legally married same-sex couples differently from legally married heterosexual couples and in doing so, denies them access to federal tax deductions, social security benefits and other tangible economic gains.
http://www.365gay.com/blog/ruby-sachs-obama-dont-defend-doma/

Lowenstein: CA Supreme Court decision is imminent
By Jenna Lowenstein
Late last night, JoeMyGod reported that the San Fransisco Police Department had started moving barricades into the Castro. While some commenters on the blog joked that the move might be in preparation for the American Idol finale, the more likely explanation is that the California Supreme Court is planning on handing down its decision on Proposition 8 tomorrow, and they warned local police forces to start their preparations for protests.
http://www.365gay.com/blog/lowenstein-ca-supreme-court-decision-is-imminent/

RachelWatch: Maximum Insecurity
By Ali Davis
Right To Serve
Air Force fighter pilot Lieutenant Colonel Victor Fehrenbach is, after 18 years, 88 combat missions, and nine medals, being discharged from the Air Force.
http://www.365gay.com/living/rachelwatch-maximum-insecurity/


=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:

100 arrested in hate crime raids across London
One hundred people were arrested today as part of a police swoop on hate crimes in London. The Metropolitan Police Service began a series of raids on addresses across the capital this morning to crack down on domestic, homophobic, transphobic, race and other forms of hate crime.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12524.html

Comment: Peter Tatchell on how Moscow's ban on the gay parade led to massive media coverage of LGBT issues
Gay rights activist Peter Tatchell on how Russia's repression of last Saturday's gay parade inadvertently promoted LGBT rights
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12516.html

Elton John: 'HIV/AIDS is still winning'
Sir Elton John has spoken out on the issue of HIV/AIDS, saying governments and the medical industry are not doing enough to prevent the world epidemic.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12522.html

Vigilantes 'patrolling woods with chainsaws' to discourage cottaging
A group of vigilantes apparently armed with chainsaws and shotguns have been patrolling a Derbyshire wood to discourage gay men meeting for sex.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12521.html

Obama has four weeks to decide on Defence of Marriage Act
President Barack Obama, who promised in his election campaign to repeal the controversial DOMA law, must respond to a federal lawsuit filed on behalf of eight gay married couples and three surviving spouses in the next four weeks.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12518.html

New Hampshire to vote today on amendments to gay marriage bill
The New Hampshire House and Senate are to vote today on whether to pass an amended gay marriage bill in the state.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12520.html

London team victorious at gay football championship
Richmond-based London Falcons FC are celebrating after winning the annual Gay Footballers' Support Network National five-a-side Championship in Cardiff.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12515.html

Police complaints body publishes new guidelines on homophobia
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has published new guidelines on dealing with allegations of discriminatory behaviour, including homophobia.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12514.html

Scottish church supports gay minister
The church at the centre of a row threatening to split the Church of Scotland has offered public support to openly gay minister Scott Rennie.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12513.html

Gay men urged to stay safe on World Hepatitis Day
Gay and bisexual men are being urged to raise their awareness of hepatitis today for World Hepatitis Day. It is estimated that one in 12 people around the globe are infected with hepatitis B or C.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12512.html


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#####

GLBT DIGEST - May 19, 2009

**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net
and we'll be happy to send the full article.


=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

The Führer Returns to Berlin, This Time Saluted Only by Laughs
By MICHAEL KIMMELMAN
BERLIN — Can Germans laugh at Hitler? This country is so earnest sometimes that even the arrival, finally, of Mel Brooks’s slapstick musical adaptation of his cult classic film “The Producers” has provoked newspapers here to rehash the eternal question.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/19/theater/19abroad.html?scp=6&sq=gay&st=cse

Kept From a Dying Partner’s Bedside
By TARA PARKER-POPE
When a loved one is in the hospital, you naturally want to be at the bedside. But what if the staff won’t allow it? That’s what Janice Langbehn, a social worker in Lacey, Wash., says she experienced when her partner of 18 years, Lisa Pond, collapsed with an aneurysm during a Florida vacation and was taken to a Miami trauma center. She died there, at age 39, as Ms. Langbehn tried in vain to persuade hospital officials to let her visit, along with the couple’s adopted children.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/19/health/19well.html?scp=4&sq=gay&st=cse


=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Police: DNA links 5 women's slayings in Milwaukee
By JAMES A. CARLSON
A person known only by DNA has killed five prostitutes over two decades in Milwaukee, the city where serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer once cruised gay bars for victims, police said Monday.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/18/AR2009051803371.html

Eye Opener: Stimulus Progress Reports Are In
Obama Avoids Test on Gays in Military: The administration has decided to accept an appeals-court ruling that could undermine the military's ban on service members found to be gay.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/federal-eye/2009/05/eye_opener_may_19_2009.html


=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/public/us

Obama Avoids Test on Gays in Military
By JESS BRAVIN and LAURA MECKLER
The Obama administration has decided to accept an appeals-court ruling that could undermine the military's ban on service members found to be gay.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124268952606832391.html


=
Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:

Gay American Heroes Foundation: Tampa boy gang raped at school, Delray Beach hotel manager shot to death
From Scott Hall of Gay American Heroes Foundation:
13 year old boy Gang Raped by Four Classmates...with Hockey stick.
“ Hate is poison... and those who teach hate are poisonous and need to get held accountable for their insidious actions." Scott Hall
TAMPA - Four Walker Middle School students raped a 13-year-old classmate with a broom handle and a hockey stick last week in a campus locker room, deputies said Friday. The boy identified his attackers, and investigators arrested four students at the school on Wednesday.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/gay-american-heroes-foundation-tampa-boy-gang-raped-at-school-delray-beach-hotel-manager-shot-to-death.html

Gay man shot 12 times close range.
At least 12 gunshots were fired before a 30-year-old hotel manager was left dead just outside his home, police said.
Mark Harriss was shot and killed next to his truck Monday night as he returned home from a local restaurant, said Delray Beach Police Detective Troy Baer. Police said detectives recovered at least 12 spent bullet casings at the scene of Harriss' death in the 400 block of Northeast Seventh Avenue. "Many shots were fired and it appears it was at close range," said police Sgt. Russ Mager.Police said the slaying didn't appear to be part of a robbery, but they didn't offer an alternative motive. Harriss was gay, but police couldn't say if his death was a hate crime.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/palmbeach/sfl-delray-man-killed-p051509,0,2124938.story

Tickets on sale now for Kinsey Sicks concert July 19 at Colony Theater in South Beach
"America's favorite dragapella quartet" The Kinsey Sicks will be performing their fabulous show "Wake the F@#K Up America" at the Colony Theater for one show only on Sunday, July 19th at 7pm. Ticket Pre-Sale starts Monday at 2pm! (One week ticket pre-sale Now - Monday 5.25.09) $5 off each ticket with the password: KINSEY
Colony Theater
1040 Lincoln Road
305.674.1040
http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0D0042AED1EC5230?artistid=1326057&majorcatid=10002&minorcatid=53


=
South Florida Blade
http://www.floridablade.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Gay rights bill advances in Nevada
Measure faces gubernatorial veto
Associated Press
A bill that would allow Nevada's same-sex couples to enter into domestic partnerships, with many of the rights of married couples, passed the state Assembly on Friday. Senate Bill 283 now goes back to the Senate to see if it agrees with the amendments that the Assembly added. If it passes the Senate again, it would land on the desk of Gov. Jim Gibbons, who has said he would veto it. The bill originally passed in the Senate 12-9.
http://www.floridablade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=25449


=
The Advocate
http://advocate.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Nine-Year-Old Organizes Gay Rights Rally
A Denver third-grader put himself front and center in the debate over same-sex marriage Saturday -- 9-year-old Ethan McNamee organized a rally in support of marriage equality, lining up speakers and taking to the stage at Colorado’s state capitol.
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid84561.asp


=
365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Canada trying to make ice skating more “macho”?
By The Canadian Press
(Toronto, Ontario) When Canadian skaters take the ice in Vancouver for the 2010 Olympics, they won’t be adorned in feathers and frills.
http://www.365gay.com/news/canada-trying-to-make-ice-skating-more-macho/

Canada’s ethnic minorities launch fight against homophobia
By The Canadian Press
(Montreal, Quebec) Patrick Yousse was jailed for a year in his native Cameroon, where he says he was abused, nearly raped and discriminated against daily because he was gay. The stocky 27-year-old, sporting stylish glasses and a silver stud in his right ear, grew teary-eyed as he told his story at a rally against homophobia held in Montreal.
http://www.365gay.com/news/canadas-ethnic-minorities-launch-fight-against-homophobia/

Duffy: A gay party at the embassy in Iraq
By Michael Duffy, 365gay blogger 05.19.2009 9:02am EDT
I should really check my military email more often. Apparently, the U.S. embassy in Iraq is holding a gay pride celebration. My first sergeant notified me of this when he asked, “What gay icon are you going to dress up as for the party?”
http://www.365gay.com/blog/duffy-a-gay-party-at-the-embassy-in-iraq/


=
Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Vigilante who filmed men cottaging is spared jail
A self-styled 'protector of morals' who filmed gay men having sex in a woodland was spared jail yesterday. Colin Haw, 47, led a group of men who dressed in balaclavas and combat kit to patrol a wood near Sleaford in Lincolnshire.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12504.html

Partner of gay comedian Frankie Howerd dies
Dennis Heymer, the former partner and manager of comedian Frankie Howerd, has died. Mr Heymer died aged 80 last Friday in the arms of Chris Byrne, who the couple unofficially adopted as a teenager.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12501.html

Gay Chief Whip claimed £18,880 for food without submitting receipts
Nick Brown, the openly gay Chief Whip and Labour MP, claimed £18,880 for food expenses between 2004 and 2008 without submitting any expenses.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12502.html


=
Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:

Same-Sex Partner Benefits on the Way for American Diplomats
Congress has inserted a provision into the State Department authorization budget that would require the State Department to confer the same benefits to same-sex partners as it does to married couples. Congressman Howard Berman, Chair of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, included the provision in the Foreign Relations Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2010 and 2011 (H.R. 2410) to “end the long-standing practice of excluding the committed partners of Foreign Service officers from the benefits routinely provided to the spouses and children of officers serving abroad.” The provision now must make its way through the budget process, including the conference committee where many-a-well intentioned proposal hits the chopping block. But in this case, it would be hard to imagine that the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which is lead by Chairman John Kerry and the moderate republic ranking member Richard Lugar, would do anything to strip out this provision. More . . .
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7132/


=

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#####

GLBT DIGEST - May 18, 2009

**IF YOU CAN'T ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE, CONTACT US AT rays.list@comcast.net and we'll be happy to send the full article.

=
New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Norway Song a Winner
Compiled by STEVEN McELROY
Celebratory crowds took to the streets of Oslo on Sunday to mark Norway’s victory at the Eurovision Song Contest, held in Moscow on Saturday night, the Associated Press reported. The victory for Norway came the night before that country’s annual National Day, so the hundreds of people gathered for a National Day parade on Sunday also sang along to “Fairytale,” the winning Eurovision song by Alexander Rybak, above. Mr. Rybak, a 23-year-old singer and violinist, beat 24 other contestants on Saturday night and scored the most points in the history of the pop songwriting competition. The winner was chosen through a combination of telephone voting and votes from juries representing 42 countries. The mood in Russia was not entirely festive, though: a clash between gay rights advocates and Russian riot police took place on Saturday afternoon. The police arrested about 40 demonstrators who had tried to use the popular international competition as an opportunity to draw attention to discrimination against homosexuals in Russia.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/18/arts/music/18arts-NORWAYSONGAW_BRF.html?_r=1&scp=9&sq=gay&st=cse

Republicans in Senate Lower Expectations of a Court Fight
By NEIL A. LEWIS
While there is growing anticipation that the summer will bring the spectacle of a pitched Supreme Court confirmation battle, some Senate Republicans are lowering expectations that they are planning any major political fight.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/18/us/politics/18judiciary.html?scp=7&sq=gay&st=cse

Norway Wins, While Russia Calls the Tune
By SOPHIA KISHKOVSKY
MOSCOW — A Belarussian-born, Russian-speaking singer representing Norway took first place in the annual Eurovision song competition held here over the weekend, against a backdrop of controversy after the police cracked down on a gay rights rally.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/18/world/europe/18iht-russia.html?scp=5&sq=gay&st=cse

In Midtown, Opposing Rallies on Same-Sex Marriage
By Sewell Chan
Gov. David A. Paterson urged the State Senate on Sunday to take swift action on legislation that would allow same-sex couples to marry, signaling that he intends to increase pressure on lawmakers as the end of the 2009 legislative session approaches.
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/18/in-midtown-opposing-rallies-on-same-sex-marriage/?scp=3&sq=gay&st=cse


=
Washington Post
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

Outlook: Who Is a Real Catholic?
David Gibson
Catholic Author and Journalist
Catholic author and journalist David Gibson, was online Monday, May 18, at 11 a.m. ET to discuss his Outlook article, about Catholic doctrine and current politics in light of President Obama's commencement speech at Notre Dame University.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2009/05/15/DI2009051502841.html

Nancy Pelosi, Leon Panetta, Health Care and Peeing in Space
Perry Bacon Jr.
Don't want to miss out on the latest in politics? Start each day with The Post Politics Hour. Join in each weekday morning at 11 a.m. as a member of The Washington Post's team of White House and congressional reporters answers questions about the latest in buzz in Washington and The Post's coverage of political news.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2009/05/14/DI2009051403258.html


=
Wall Street Journal
http://online.wsj.com/

Liberals Fret Over Obama's Compromises
By JONATHAN WEISMAN
President Barack Obama's decision to maintain Bush-era military commissions is the latest in a series of compromises and delays that allies on the left see as a disappointing shift away from campaign pledges.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124260169419828351.html


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Sun-Sentinel
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/
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In Colorado, gays move closer to legal equality
By Jessica Fender
In five years' time, Colorado has quietly become one of the most welcoming states in the region for gays, lesbians and transgender individuals seeking the same legal rights as in liberal states.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sfl-colorado-civil-unions-051809sbmay18,0,5400543.story

Eurovision gay rights rally ends in violence
Police officers in Moscow silence gay rights protesters
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sns-viral-eurovision-protest-story,0,1128595.htmlstory


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Steve Rothaus
www.MiamiHerald.com/gay
Go to this link for the following articles:

Ujima Men's Collective Conference for black gay men to be Sept. 25-27 in West Palm Beach
Florida AIDS activist Lorenzo C. Robertson announces an upcoming event targeting black gay men -- the Ujima Men's Collective Conference, Sept. 25-27, 2009, in West Palm Beach. Here are the details:
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/ujima-mens-collective-conference-for-black-gay-men-to-be-sept-25-27-in-west-palm-beach.html

Pioneering gay, AIDS activist Rodger McFarlane mourned after taking his own life in New Mexico
News release from GLAAD:
Statement by Friends & Family of Rodger McFarlane on his Death
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/pioneering-gay-aids-activist-rodger-mcfarlane-mourned-after-taking-his-own-life-in-new-mexico.html

Christian Family Coalition: 2009 statewide legislative victory breakfast a smashing success
News release from the Christian Family Coalition:
On Saturday, May 16th, the Christian Family Coalition hosted its 2009 Statewide Legislative Victory Breakfast & Marriage Champion Awards at the Miami Airport Hilton Hotel.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/christian-family-coalition-2009-statewide-legislative-victory-breakfast-a-smashing-success.html

Cynthia Nixon gets engaged to longtime girlfriend
From TV Guide celebrity news:
Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon plans to marry her girlfriend — in the city. Nixon announced her engagement to girlfriend Christine Marinoni in New York City at a weekend rally for same-sex marriage, Access Hollywood reports.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/cynthia-nixon-gets-engaged-to-longtime-girlfriend.html

7,000 women expected at Girls in Wonderland / Gay Day at Disney Women’s Weekend
News release from Yesi Leon:
Move over Snow White. Back off Sleeping Beauty. South Florida's top women's party producers Pandora Events bring a different brand of leading lady to the Wonderful World of Disney. Expect more than 7,000 women to turn out for their annual Girls in Wonderland extravaganza, one of the largest lesbian event in the state, June 4-7 in Orlando.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/7000-women-expected-at-girls-in-wonderland-gay-day-at-disney-womens-weekend.html

Proper manners: Outing closeted legislators?
An Advocate.com exclusive posted May 16, 2009
Proper manners say outing is a violation of a person's privacy and not to do it. But when it comes to antigay politicians who lead double lives, Emily Post might make an exception.
By Steven Petrow
Many folks laugh when I tell them I've written a manners and etiquette book, usually thinking it's simply about stationery and place settings or that it's a tome for snobs or what's left of the idle rich. Hardly. In fact, the controversial new documentary Outrage, which outs a closet of elected officials, raises the perfect manners conundrum: Is naming names of closeted politicians good or bad manners and what does that answer say about our contemporary values and mores? To read the complete article, click here.
http://miamiherald.typepad.com/gaysouthflorida/2009/05/proper-manners-outing-closeted-legislators.html


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Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/
Go to the links for the following articles:

OPINION: Caught, Cutié seeks shelter in spotlight
By DANIEL SHOER-ROTH
A spiritual person shuns the cameras and fame, because the ego is the antithesis of the spirit. Therefore, no one who is truly spiritual goes around broadcasting that fact.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1053370.html

Congo ex-rebels accused of rape and killings
By ANITA POWELL
GOMA, Congo -- Congolese rebels who became part of the country's army under a peace deal are looting, raping and killing the civilians they are meant to protect, U.N. military commanders told top U.N. officials on Monday. The failure of integration efforts threatens attempts to bring peace to eastern Congo. The mineral-rich region has been torn apart by violence since Hutu militias who carried out Rwanda's genocide fled there almost 15 years ago.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/world/AP/story/1053750.html


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365Gay.com
http://www.365gay.com/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Gays march through Latvian capital
By 365gay Newscenter Staff
(Riga) About 300 gays and lesbians celebrated gay pride under heavily armed police protection on the weekend in Riga, the capital of Latvia. The parade route was small - around the perimeter of Vermanes Park near the center of the city - but hundreds of people jeered and heckled the marchers.
http://www.365gay.com/news/gays-march-through-latvian-capital/

Twitter mistake causes gay marriage internet stir
By The Canadian Press
A year-old story on the California Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the state’s gay marriage ban had the blogosphere buzzing last week.
http://www.365gay.com/news/twitter-mistake-causes-gay-marriage-internet-stir/


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Pink News - UK
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/
Go to this link for the following articles:

Gay MP Chris Bryant forced to move house after homophobic attacks
Chris Bryant, the openly gay Labour MP for Rhondda, has said the reason he 'flipped' his second home was to escape homophobic thugs who daubed lewd messages on his main constituency property.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12482.html

Gay man stabbed to death in north London
A gay man was stabbed to death at an address in Tottenham, north London on Saturday. Daryl Phillips, 39, had been stabbed in the leg and was treated at the scene at Avenue Road, but later was pronounced dead at 3.35am.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12492.html

Ex-wife of gay minister offers public support
The former wife of openly gay Rev Scott Rennie, whose ordination is threatening to create a schism in the Church of Scotland, has spoken out in his defence.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12491.html

Fergie follows Megan Fox as the latest star to come out as bisexual
Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie is the latest celebrity to come out as bisexual. The star, who married Josh Duchamel in January, told the Sun: “Put it this way, I’ve experimented definitely, but I have never had a steady girlfriend.”
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12489.html

Uruguay lifts military gay ban
Uruguay has opted to lift a ban on gays serving in its military. The ban was imposed under the 1973-85 military dictatorship. Under it, people with "open sexual deviations", which includes homosexuality, were banned from entering the military academies.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12486.html

California appeals court upholds sentences for men who killed trans teenager
California’s First District Court of Appeal unanimously affirmed the second-degree murder convictions of two men who killed a 17-year-old trans woman.
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-12487.html


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Daily Queer News
www.dailyqueernews.com
Go to the links for the following articles:

WI: State Supreme Court to Hear Case on Gay Marriage
Steven Walters of the Journal Sentinel | Journal Sentinel
Madison - The state Supreme Court on Thursday said it will hear a challenge to the 2006 constitutional amendment that prohibited same-sex marriage. The order added the case to the agenda for the court’s next term, which begins this fall and ends in June 2010. No date for oral arguments was set. The challenge to the constitutional change was filed in 2007 by Bill McConkey, a Door County resident who teaches at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and who has a daughter who is gay. McConkey argued that the constitutional change was improperly put before voters in 2006, but a Dane County judge ruled against him. McConkey said voters should have been asked to vote on two separate amendments, instead of the one put before them. Lester Pines, McConkey’s attorney, said the wording of the 2006 constitutional amendment improperly asked voters to do two things: define the only valid marriage as between a man and woman and define the legal rights of the unmarried. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7131/

PA: Openly Gay Judge Seeks Election in Philadelphia
Matthew Ray | EDGE Contributor | EDGE Boston
Overshadowed by previous elections, Tuesday’s primary remains pivotal. The headliners on the ballot are candidates for city comptroller and district attorney, but openly gay Judge Dan Anders’ campaign to seek a 10 year term on the bench could send a powerful message far beyond Philadelphia. Anders currently serves in the Family Court Division of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia. Governor Ed Rendell appointed him to the bench in 2007 to fill a vacancy after Judge James J. Fitzgerald, III, was appointed to the state Supreme Court. Anders first sought office in 2007, but his appointment made him the city’s first openly gay judge. Anders, who has heard more than 5,000 cases involving Philadelphia’s at-risk and neglected children, seeks both the Democratic and Republican nominations. Read more
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7130/

Marriage in New York: Will It Inflame Gay/Black Tensions?
Kilian Melloy | EDGE Staff Reporter | EDGE Boston
A new poll from Quinnipiac University purports to demonstrate a race-based divide with regards to marriage equality in New York. The poll might speak to, or even spark, a potential for renewed conflict between the gay and African-American communities. In the aftermath of the vote on Proposition 8, the ballot initiative that put the rights of gay and lesbian families up for popular vote in California, media reports suggested that Black voters had overwhelmingly supported the measure, which was narrowly approved in a n outcome that threw the future legal status of 18,000 civilly wed families into doubt. Previous reports had suggested that Black Americans did not support marriage equality for gays and lesbians, but even so some in the gay community felt stung and rejected, especially given a presumption among some GLBTs that Blacks and gays should be natural allies. A rash of racial incidents, mostly verbal in nature, followed; in one instance, two Black men attending an anti-Prop. 8 rally reported that a white man hurled racial invective at them.
http://www.dailyqueernews.com/news/7129/


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