LGBTQ Activists & Allies Speak OUT

Even though this has been once again a very challenging year for our LGBTQ community we want to thank our millions of global listeners for making OUTTAKE VOICES such a fabulous success in 2018. We also want to thank all the LGBTQ activists, celebrities & allies who appeared on our audio podcast series in 2018 syndicated on iTunes including: Actor Jeff Hiller, Amanda McLain-Snipes Equality Federation, Erin Uritus Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, Kaylie Hanson Long NARAL, Nicole Berner SEIU, Scott Simpson Muslim Advocates, Todd A. Cox, Director of the NAACP, Michele Jawando CAP, Actor writer Joel Craig, Mariah Hanson, Founder The Dinah, Richard Gray, Fort Lauderdale Visitors Bureau, Author Chef Rossi, Author Robin Lowey, Pulse Nightclub Survivor Brandon Wolf, Amie Klujian & Christina Roberts Co-Founders of “Back Lot Bash”, Stephanie Sandberg, LPAC ClexaCon creator Holly Winebarger & Danielle Jablonski, Director & author Ji Strangeway, Actress Patricia Rae, Actress Briana Venskus, Actress Erica Luttrell, Actress Haviland Stillwell, Actress Natasha Negovanlis, Actress Elizabeth Maxwell, Tello Films Bridget McManus, Karman Kregloe, Cat Davis, Kristen Smith & Christin Baker, President Tello Films, Actress Actress Mandahla Ros, Actress Nicole Pacent, Musician Susan SurfTone, Rhonda Marable, Publicist Mona Elyafi, Actress Marlene Forte, Playwright Jewelle Gomez, LPAC Board members Alix Ritchie & Diane M. Felicio, Attorney Lisa A. Linsky, Kate Clinton & Urvashi Vaid, Attorney Sharon L. Weiner, Liz Abzug, Founder & President Bella Abzug Leadership Institute, Author Sue Katz, Vanita Gupta, President Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights, Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Rachel Tiven CEO Lambda Legal, Mara Keisling NCTE & Shannon Minter, Legal Director National Center for Lesbian Rights, Director/Producer Stephen Winter, Legendary singer Mary Wilson, Director Sharone Halevy, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chad Griffin President HRC, LGBTQ Publicist Cathy Renna, Playwright & Director Michael Gaucher, Cheryl Osimo Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition Executive Director, Trans author & activist Brynn Tannehill, LGBTQ singer songwriter Joey Suarez, UK’s legendary LGBTQ & human rights activist Peter Tatchell, Author Artist Michael Petry Director of the Museum of Contemporary Art in London, Congressman Joe Kennedy (D-MA), Luc Athayde-Rizzaro NCTE Policy Counsel, Aaron Belkin, Founding Director of the Palm Center, Sharon McGowan, Lambda Legal & Legal Director Ian Thompson, ACLU, David Stacy HRC Government Affairs Director & Diego Miguel Sanchez PFLAG.
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San Francisco New Year's Gaiety

Fabulous New Years Eve event to ring in 2019 hosted by San Francisco’s famed drag sensation Peaches Christ & Maestro Edwin Outwater with Jane Lynch, Cheyenne Jackson & SF Symphony on Monday December 31st at Davies Symphony Hall 201 Van Ness Avenue in San Francisco, CA. The festivities will begin at 8P & also feature The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence & special guest artists Varla Jean Merman & Thorgy Thor. So if you’ve had too much “nice” & want a little more “naughty” tickets are still available to join the gayest New Year’s romp in the city or possibly the nation. This must attend event will feature holiday hits played by the orchestra, a star-studded lineup of iconic guests, delectable vocalists & drag queens galore to guarantee big laughs, big fun & even bigger hair. There will be special performances by violinist Breanna Sinclairé & vocalists HomoPhonics. The San Francisco Symphony will perform a program of Gershwin’s Girl Crazy, Kander / Ebb’s Ring Them Bells, Lopez Let It Go, Saint-Saëns “Mon Coeur Souvre A Ta Voix” from Samson & Delila, Bernstein & Sondheim’s "Somewhere" from West Side Story, ROBYN Call Your Girlfriend (Boyfriend), Miller’s King of the Road, Merrill’s Mambo Italiano, Strauss, Jr. The Blue Danube, Opus 314, Horn’s Bagatelle No. 5, Morali / Willis’ YMCA (Runway skit), Glinka’s Overture to Ruslan & Ludmila, Rosner’s “Year End Review”, Jolson / Dryer’s Me & My Shadow, Bernstein’s Something’s Coming’ from Westside Story Cooke’s Change is Gonna Come & a traditional arrangement by Rosner of “Auld Lang Syne”. So before the ball drops kick off your New Year’s celebrations at Davies Symphony Hall with a festive evening of wicked sass & fabulous flair fit for a queen.
For Info & Tix: sfsymphony.org 
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Our LGBTQ XMAS Wish For All

With this out of control administration the USA is ending this year on an insane note. The end of the year usually brings a financial surge but with Trump now having everything he touches turn to crap the stock market is falling & the government is on the verge of a full shutdown. How low America can go will be something for the history books to record but in the meantime let’s hope for the best in the holiday spirit & hope that this bigoted small-minded administration will soon be defeated & one day they’ll realize that equality must prevail for all in the grand order of things. So with that said we want to take a moment & wish all our friends & family a healthy & happy holiday & we also want to thank our global LGBTQ audience & allies for making this past year so rewarding for our OUTTAKE Team. Let’s Make the Yule-tide Gay & enjoy this performance of Judy Garland singing "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" a song she introduced in the 1944 MGM musical Meet Me in St. Louis written by Hugh Martin & Ralph Blane. We’ve included the lyrics so you can all sing along: Have yourself a merry little Christmas, Let your heart be light From now on, our troubles will be out of sight. Have yourself a merry little Christmas, Make the Yule-tide gay, From now on, our troubles will be miles away. Here we are as in olden days, Happy golden days of yore. Faithful friends who are dear to us Gather near to us once more. Through the years We all will be together, If the Fates allow Hang a shining star upon the highest bough. And have yourself A merry little Christmas now. HAVE A SAFE &FABULOUS XMAS!!

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Full Equality Ordered In Ohio

Equality Federation reports that Governor John Kasich of Ohio has issued a historic Executive Order taking a significant step in ensuring that all Ohioans including LGBTQ Ohioans are protected from discrimination in state employment. This Executive Order explicitly prohibits discrimination in state employment on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression & other protected bases such as race, color, religion, age & disability. Fran Hutchins, Deputy Director of Equality Federation stated, “Governor Kasich has shown the nation that fairness & equality is not a partisan issue, it’s an American value. All of us should be able to go to work and provide for ourselves & our families without fear of discrimination. I hope other governors follow suit. Despite the divisive rhetoric coming from the President, the movement for LGBTQ equality is strong & has broad support in our everyday communities.” Alana Jochum, Executive Director, Equality Ohio added, “Equality Ohio has been sending the Governor letters with stories from LGBTQ Ohioans about their experiences with discrimination throughout the year & finding opportunities to grow his familiarity with transgender people and their lives. He heard this call & we are grateful for Governor Kasich’s leadership in extending nondiscrimination protections for transgender state employees.” James Knapp, Executive Director of TransOhio, concluded, “This is truly an important and historic day not just for the transgender community but for the entire state. Today, our Governor stood up & said that workplace discrimination will not be tolerated in Ohio. We are proud to have been a part of this work & we’re thrilled that state employees will be able to enter 2019 as their authentic selves without fear of unlawful termination.”
Read Executive Order… 
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Boston Pride New Board Members

Boston Pride has announced that Deborah Drew & Steven Cullipher have been added to its board of directors bringing years of advocating for our LGBTQ community. Linda DeMarco, Vice President of Boston Pride stated, “With the addition of Debbie & Steven, the Boston Pride board is now stronger than ever. They have spent countless hours advocating for the LGBTQ community both through Boston Pride & their everyday lives.” Cullipher stated, “Becoming a board member at Boston Pride is the right decision for me as I have been volunteering for several years. Boston Pride has allowed me to build relationships & serve in leading roles during events.” Deborah Drew added, “I am excited to have the opportunity to join the board & continue to build relationships at Boston Pride. Joining the board allows me to better serve the community at a higher capacity with a greater reach.” Also announced is that Sylvain Bruni is stepping down as Boston Pride President in 2019 but will continue in his role as Pride Guide publisher. Bruni has been a member of Boston Pride for 11 years & served on the board since 2010. Boston Pride Vice President Linda DeMarco will serve as Acting President in the interim stating, “We are grateful to Sylvain for his service to Boston Pride. His passion & commitment to advancing the issues of the LGBTQ community & to Boston Pride are second to none. We are a better organization due to his tireless dedication & efforts over the years.” Boston Pride Week 2019 takes place May 31st to June 9th.
For More Info: bostonpride.org
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New Book “The Word Is Art” (Audio)

Michael Petry author, artist & Director of the Museum of Contemporary Art in London talks about his new book “The Word Is Art” that addresses how contemporary global artists incorporate text & language into their works that speaks to some of the most pressing issues of the 21st century. In today’s digital & online age words have become more important than ever with text becoming information & information striving to become a free form of expression. “The Word Is Art” looks at the work of a diverse range of artists including Annette Messager, Barbara Kruger, Cerith Wyn Evans, Christian Marclay, Christopher Wool, Chun Kwang Young, eL Seed, Fiona Banner, Ghada Amer, Glenn Ligon, Harland Miller, Jenny Holzer, Kay Rosen, Laure Prouvost, Martin Creed, Rachel Whiteread, Raymond Pettibon, Roni Horn, Tania Bruguera, Zhang Huan & many more interpreting how the digital & online age have made words more important than ever. “The Word Is Art” takes us on a fascinating & richly illustrated tour interpreting these trending global art forms. Michael Petry has written a number of books, including “Installation Art”, “The Art of Not Making: the new artist/artisan relationship”, “Nature Morte: Contemporary Artists Reinvigorate the Still-Life Tradition” & his most recent work “The Word Is Art” all published by Thames & Hudson. In 2019 he will be speaking & exhibiting his work worldwide.We talked to Michael in this exclusive audio interview about his inspiration for creating this book & his spin on our LGBTQ issues. LISTEN: 

For More Info: michaelpetry.com
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XMAS Queens Concert Special

Revry presents "Christmas Queens Sing-Along Concert Special" featuring your favorite drag stars in this combination of live performances, interviews, music videos & backstage moments from various stops along the sold-out 2016 world tour. Featuring music from the first two holiday albums, the special was filmed live in London & Los Angeles starring Alaska Thunderfuck, Ginger Minj, Ivy Winters, Jackie Beat, Jiggly Caliente, Katya, Manila Luzon, Phi Phi O’Hara and Sharon Needles & features Michelle Visage. Alaska Thunderfuck stated, "What better way to celebrate the holidays than watching Drag queens sing, dance & make merry. Thank you Revry for sharing our season’s greetings with the world!” Ginger Minj concluded, "It’s the most wonderful time of the year! What better way to celebrate than donning your gayest apparel & decking the halls with some of dragdom’s merriest Marys?! Christmas Queens is our own little Christmas party that we have been fortunate enough to share with the world. We’re just like any other family. We drink, we eat, we argue, we laugh & we love spending time together. Between movies, tv, music, fashion & touring its so hard for us to find the time to get together, but once a year, no matter what, we don our gayest apparel, sing some songs & just have a good time. That’s what Christmas Queens has become ... our little family’s Christmas Party & now we get to share the festivities with the rest of the world!” Revry is the first queer global streaming network, available in 35 million homes in over 100 countries, with a uniquely curated selection of LGBTQ+ film, series & originals along with the world’s largest queer libraries of groundbreaking podcasts, albums & music videos.
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Officials Call For LGBTQ Equality

Over 150 openly LGBTQ elected officials & newly elected officials from across the nation are calling on the incoming U.S. Congress to act on four key initiatives related to LGBTQ equality. The letter was drafted after a closed-door convening of LGBTQ elected officials at LGBTQ Victory Institute’s International LGBTQ Leaders Conference last week. The conference is the largest convening of LGBTQ elected officials in the world – with more than 140 elected officials from 26 countries, as well as 400 other advocates & leaders. Mayor Annise Parker, President & CEO of LGBTQ Victory Institute stated, “LGBTQ political power is growing thanks to the rainbow wave of LGBTQ people who won elected office in November & this letter is the first sign of us wielding that new power. The current U.S. Congress failed to advance equality policies & legislation that most Americans support: non-discrimination protections, addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis, protecting trans people from abusive policies & being a moral voice on the global stage. The next Congress can remedy these wrongs & LGBTQ elected officials are determined to add their voice & energize their constituents around these important measures. The officials who attended our conference & signed this letter won elected office because voters demanded authentic, values-driven leadership. That is what they are delivering on & we hope the new Congress delivers as well.” The letter calls on Congress to: pass The Equality Act to expand non-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation & gender identity; reduce HIV/AIDS by forming an advisory commission, advocating a “Getting to Zero” goal & taking proactive measures to address disparities in communities of color; protect trans people from anti-trans Trump administration policies & other measures & improve LGBTQ rights globally by supporting asylum claims & ensuring LGBTQ rights is a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy.
Read Full Letter…
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Toys Party 33rd Annual NYC Event

This year’s Toys Party event raised more than $275,000 to benefit SAGE & collected over 5,000 toys for distribution to numerous LGBTQ friendly children’s charities. Over 2,500 attendees including former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, CNN’s Don Lemon & actresses Lorraine Bracco & Mariska Hargitay packed Chelsea Piers on December 9th for the 33rd Annual Toys Party to mix & mingle & celebrate the holiday season all while benefiting LGBTQ elders & children in need. For three decades the Toys Party founded by Robby Brown has collected more than 150,000 toys for children & raised over $3.5 million for SAGE the country's largest & oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ seniors. The event, co-hosted by Chris Kann & David Tufts has become one of New York’s most recognized traditions, making a major impact on the lives of LGBTQ older people & children in need during the holidays. Michael Adams SAGE CEO stated, “This time of year, it’s more important than ever to band together & support our larger LGBT family — elders & children — who need our help the most. For decades, the Toys Party has been a beautiful tradition of our city’s LGBT community, ringing in the holidays while making a huge difference for LGBT older people & children in need. We’re so grateful to Robby, Chris & David for creating such a uniquely festive evening & to everybody who came out to have fun while making a difference during the holiday season.” Toys from the event were distributed to the following charities: 9th Police Precinct Community Center, Camp Felix, Ali Forney Center, Brooklyn ACE Integration Head Start, God's Love We Deliver, Grace Baptist/Faith Mission, The Iris House & UEW Jericho Project/Brick Church.
For More Info: sageusa.org
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Raging Skillet Plays Cambridge

There will be a special one night only reading of the play “Raging Skillet” by Jacques Lamarre that’s based on the memoir of the same title by Chef Rossi at the Central Square Theater 450 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge, MA on Monday December 17th at 7P. The reading directed by Sasha Bratt features Lee Mikeska Gardner, Greg Maraio & Annette Miller. “Raging Skillet” is one woman's story about cooking her way through some of life's biggest challenges in New York City's most unlikely kitchens. As the rebel caterer parties at the launch event for her new tell-all book her Orthodox Jewish mother shows up unannounced twenty years after she died & guilt trips her into a reckoning with her rebellious past, her time with a Hassidic community in Brooklyn & the real meaning of a Jewish home. When asked what she would like to accomplish with her work Chef Rossi stated, “I think I would most like to see the empowerment of women especially in the culinary field would be great. I’d like to see the empowerment of young gay adults & gay teenagers. I’d like to see the empowerment of the underdog in general. I’m kind of a runaway, throwaway, white trash little kid from New Jersey who went from literally being homeless to whatever this thing is called Chef Rossi. I just think that my story really empowers people that are down & out or the underdog or minorities & I just hope I can help.” Tickets are free but reservations are recommended.
To RSVP…
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Help Is On The Way Holiday Event

The Richmond / Ermet AID Foundation is having its "Help is on the Way for the Holidays 17 a concert & gala celebration for everyone” on Monday December 10th at Marines' Memorial Theater 609 Sutter Street in San Francisco, California benefiting Project Open Hand & Positive Resource Center. The concert begins at 7:30P featuring performances by Maureen McGovern Multi Grammy Award-nominated recording star, Constantine Maroulis Tony-nominated American Idol star, Darius Anthony Harper B’way star (Kinky Boots), Cirque du Soleil vocalist, Jai Rodriguez Broadway / TV star, Mikalah Gordon American Idol, recording star, Paula West Jazz icon, cabaret star, Shawn Ryan America's Got Talent, cabaret star, Debby Holiday Billboard top 10 recording artist, Sharon McNight Tony-nominated cabaret star, Rodney Earl Jackson Jr. B’way. star / co-founder Bay Area Theater Co., Paradox Voice Band the acapella sensations,Kirill Strakhov & Caitlin Anderson Latin Ballroom dance champions & cast members from Bay Area Musical's "Crazy for You". Kenneth Henderson, Executive Director of the Richmond/Ermet AID Foundation stated, “People think the AIDS epidemic is over & we don't need to pay attention to it anymore. Events like "Help is on the Way" serve not only to raise funds for local AIDS services but to remind people that there's still a need for funding them. More people are living with HIV & AIDS than ever before in history.” The after party will take place at 9:45P at The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel’s Redwood & Velvet Rooms 4 in San Francisco. This year honorary chairs are CA Senator Dianne Feinstein & Mr. Richard Blum, Governor Elect Gavin Newsom & CA State Senator Scott Weiner.
For Info & Tix: reaf-sf.org
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Brass Bows & Boys Holiday Concert

Boston Gay Men’s Chorus (BGMC) is presenting “Brass & Bows & Boys,” a holiday concert that will be loud, proud, tender & warm with performances on December 9th, 14th, 15th & 16 at New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall in Boston, Massachusetts. Reuben M. Reynolds BGMC Music Director stated, “We’ll showcase the traditional songs of the season along with modern classics, but we have so much musical talent in the Chorus we wanted to take advantage of that by performing songs by our members. Given that the holiday season is about celebrating our families, both those we come into the world with & those we’ve chosen as adults, it seems appropriate & audiences are going to love it.” The title of the show comes from the opening piece “Holiday Bells, Brass & Boys,” which features a medley of some of the best known holiday carols & was written by BGMC member David Shaffer. There will be some Chanukah songs as well & the second half features the parody “Santa’s Turn” by BGMC member Jay Baer & the concert ends with the holiday medley “Pictures of a Season” by BGMC Principal Accompanist & Assistant Music Director Chad Weirick, who is marking his 25th year with BGMC this year. Craig Coogan BGMC Executive Director concluded, “This is a show that will infuse people of all ages & beliefs with the holiday spirit. Brass & Bows & Boys celebrates homecoming, reflection & family & we can’t wait to take the stage!”
For Info & Tix...
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OutRight UN LGBTQ Week & Summit

OutRight Action International’s Advocacy Week brings together almost 50 LGBTQ activists from 36 countries & every region of the world to participate in the organization’s 7th annual Advocacy Week at the United Nations (UN) that runs now through December 7th when human rights defenders meet with government representatives & UN officials as they discuss the most pertinent issues in the field of international LGBTQ human rights. Advocates meet face to face with dignitaries from participating country delegations throughout the week. They will also meet with representatives from UN bodies like UN Women, the LGBTI Core Group & the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Jessica Stern, Executive Director of Outright Action International stated, “Advocacy week is where LGBTIQ voices & lived realities are amplified & delivered directly to the leaders & representatives who make international policy decisions. Activists from around the world have the chance to make the most of these meetings & come together with fellow advocates to strategize & learn from each other.” Advocacy Week culminates on December 8th with OutSummit, a one-day global conference bringing together U.S.-based & international activists to meet & discuss critical issues affecting the global LGBTIQ movement. This year’s conference highlights some of the world’s foremost experts & activists discussing the most cutting edge issues impacting the global human rights movement. OutSummit is hosted at The City University of New York Law School & is organized in partnership with the Sorensen Center for International Peace & Justice.
For More Info: outsummit.org
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Boston South Asian Speakers Event

The South Asian Arts & Cultural Council is presenting Gautam Raghavan at their next speaker series this Saturday December 8th at the Boston Public Library’s Rabb Hall 700 Boylston Street in Boston, MA from 1P to 3P. Gautam will discuss his new book “West Wingers” which he served as editor & will appear together with contributors Rumana Ahmed & Aneesh Raman. Amit Dixit South Asian Arts & Cultural Council Executive Director stated, “Having Gautam in Boston is a defining moment as he was the API & LGBTQ liaison under President Obama & has bee a community activist for many years. I first met Gautam many years ago when he was in college & so proud to call him family! Join SAACC for an amazing afternoon at the Boston Public Library this Saturday at Rabb Hall 1P to 3P.” Raghavan currently serves as Executive Director of the Indian American Impact Project & Fund & as an advisor to the Biden Foundation. He previously served as Vice President of Policy for the Gill Foundation, the nation’s oldest funder of LGBTQ Civil Rights Advocacy. From 2011 to 2014, Raghavan served as President Barack Obama’s liaison to the LGBTQ community as well as the Asian American & Pacific Islander community & from 2009 to 2011 he was Acting White House Liaison for the U.S. Department of Defense & as Outreach Lead for the Pentagon’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Working Group. A first-generation immigrant Raghavan was born in India, raised in the Seattle area & graduated from Stanford University. The event is free but you must RSVP.
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Susan Claassen As Edith Head

Susan Claassen will perform her fabulous one-woman show “A Conversation With Edith Head” for 2 weeks only at The Pear Theatre 1110 La Avenida St Suite A in Mountain View, California from December 7th to 16th. The play is based on the book “Edith Head’s Hollywood” by Edith Head & Paddy Calistro & continues the legacy of Hollywood’s iconic costume designer. For 6 decades the legendary costume designer Edith Head worked on over 1100 films, dressed the greatest stars of Hollywood from Mae West to Grace Kelly, received 35 Academy Award nominations & won an unprecedented 8 Oscars. The play is filled with behind-the-scenes stories about great movie legends & their delicious intimate encounters with Miss Head during their costume fittings & other personal recollections. As Lucille Ball stated, “Edith knew the figure faults of every top star & she never told. Edith always knew how to keep a secret.” However in this one-woman show some secrets just might be revealed & fashion tips freely given. Edith Head's story is as fascinating as the history of the film industry itself, filled with humor, frustration & above all, glamour. Brilliant artist Susan Claassen brings this regional premier to the Bay Area stating “We are packing our bags, costumes, sketches & Oscars® & "Head"ing to The Pear Theatre, Mountain View, California!” I talked to Claassen about “A Conversation With Edith Head” in this exclusive audio byte: LISTEN
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HIV Infection Rate Down In NYC

The New York City Health Department has announced that new diagnoses of HIV infection in NYC have reached an all-time low of 2,157 in 2017 which is a 5.4% decrease from 2016. Kelsey Louie, CEO of Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) stated, “Another year of record low new HIV infections in New York City is reason to be optimistic about where we’re headed in this epidemic. The fact that new infections among women a group that saw a slight uptick in new infections in 2016 fell by nearly 12% is a testament to the power of following the data & being smart about prevention targeting and outreach. But while there is a lot to celebrate, we must also remember that 2,157 New Yorkers were newly diagnosed with HIV in 2017 & that’s 2,157 New Yorkers too many. With proven prevention methods like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) & the knowledge that people living with HIV who are on treatment cannot transmit the virus, we have the tools & the data to end this epidemic once & for all. Now we need the proper resources. GMHC is proud to partner with the New York City Department of Health & Mental Hygiene as we work collectively to stop new infections & reach all New Yorkers who are living with or affected by this disease.” However, the report showed some areas where we need to redouble our prevention efforts. For example, new infections among Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) increased in 2016, according to the report.
For More Info: gmhc.org
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Transgender Troops Attacked Again

The Trump administration’s assault on transgender troops continues with news that Senator Inhofe, Chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee is seeking to perpetuate the Trump-Pence Administration's proposed ban on transgender military service. Aaron Belkin Palm Center Director stated, “Senator Inhofe insisted for years that allowing gays & lesbians to serve openly would undermine the military, falsely claiming that ending ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ would undermine ‘our military's ability to fight, protect & win.’ Yet gays & lesbians have now served openly & successfully for seven years in all ranks & services. Numerous military & political leaders who once opposed their service have acknowledged they were wrong & even expressed regret over a 'moral passing of the buck.’ But not Senator Inhofe, who is now taking aim at transgender troops to score political points. The senator's new embrace of President Trump's proposed transgender ban is just as misguided as his earlier embrace of 'don't ask, don't tell'. Senior military leaders have confirmed what we know from more than two years of successful, trans-inclusive service: that inclusive policy promotes military readiness, while discrimination harms it.” Andy Blevins, OutServe-SLDN Executive Director concluded, OutServe-SLDN will continue to vigorously defend our transgender servicemembers & we call upon Senator Inhofe & his like-minded associates to do the same. Open & authentic transgender military service has successfully been in effect for almost 3 years now. We cannot afford to revert to a standard that does not fully support & celebrate the identities of all the selfless patriots that make up our military services.To all of our transgender servicemembers & veterans, whether you are serving openly or in silence, please know that we see you, we appreciate your service & that we got your six."
For More Info: outserve-sldn.org
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Creative At Any Age Lesbian Event

Boston OLOC (Old Lesbians Organizing For Change) will present a very special program entitled “Creative At Any Age: Outstanding Performances” featuring six creative artists on Sunday December 2nd from 2P to 4P at the Brookline Senior Center at 93 Winchester Street in Brookline, Massachusetts. Maggie Cee, artist, activist, dancer, writer & the founder of the long-running, wildly popular Femme Show will be performing her fabulous new dance/theater piece. Amber Aliyah Williams aka SublimeLuv who is a Boston born & bred womanist spoken-word artist will be performing her powerful activist art in a set entitled, 'Sublime Poetry.’ They will be joined by panelists including Kalyani Devajgoti, Jyl Lynn Felman, Sarah Pearlman & Sue Katz. Author Sue Katz stated, "This programs highlights the talents of creative women of various ages in our community. Our artists do not always get the opportunities they deserve to perform & to read their work, so we are excited to bring together & to celebrate so many extraordinary voices." OLOC Boston programs & events are open to lesbians of all ages, including transgender lesbians. OLOC’s mission includes their commitment to creating communities of older lesbians & solidarity with allies for racial, economic & social justice. Following the event there will be an early dinner at Lemon Grass at 239 Harvard Street in Brookline, MA.
For More Info: spearlman@hartford.edu
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LGBTQ Cyber Monday Event

This year now more than ever it’s extremely important to display your commitment to LGBTQ equality & this Cyber Monday for the Holiday Season we’re offering the highest quality gear for all our LGBTQ shoppers & allies. We would appreciate it if you could take a moment & visit our online OUTTAKE EQUALITY STORE where your purchases will help support our mission to provide & produce our free exclusive & insightful podcasts with LGBT leaders & allies on OUTTAKE VOICES into 2018 & beyond. Choose from a fabulous array of unique gear while supporting our quest for full global LGBT equality. We have tee shirts, tote bags, watches & more all displaying either our cool OUTTAKE logo or merchandise designed by visionary Richard Emmanuel whose emblem consists of universal symbols. Two androgynous gender nonconforming figures are meeting each other within the circle of the world. This creates a symbol of unity that is diverse with its differences, yet respectful of each person’s beliefs. The word “Equality” is boldly displayed with the words “LGBTQ Civil Rights.” This awesome design is empowering & a courageous symbol for our LGBTQ community with a symbol that reflects our strong commitment to equality. Both of these designs are an excellent way to get the conversation started to maintain & advance LGBTQ civil rights & equality. So what are you waiting for? Just click on the link below & check it OUT!! :)
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Trump's Trans Military Obsession

The Trump Administration has requested a writ of certiorari from the U.S. Supreme Court in cases challenging the president's ban on transgender troops. The cases are currently before lower federal courts that are still deciding on several motions but the Trump administration wants to intervene now & implement the transgender military ban. So what could have possibly caused such an appalling maneuver by this homophobic & transphobic administration just days after the global recognition of Transgender Day of Remembrance & recent release of “TransMilitary” the groundbreaking & award-winning documentary that chronicles the lives of four transgender service members honorably protecting America on Logo TV? Jennifer Levi, GLAD Transgender Rights Project Director stated, “There is no urgency here & no reason for the Court to weigh in at this juncture. The injunctions preserve the status quo of the open service policy that was thoroughly vetted by the military itself & has been in place now for more than two years. This is simply one more attempt by a reckless Trump administration to push through a discriminatory policy. The policy flies in the face of military research & dozens of top military experts.” Sarah McBride HRC National Press Secretary concluded, "The Trump-Pence administration's desperate desire to discriminate against transgender service members knows no bounds. The administration is in a rush because they know that every day that transgender people continue to enlist & serve with distinction is another day that the courts & the public see this irrational policy for what it is. There is simply no reason to circumvent the traditional judicial process in pursuit of banning qualified, patriotic Americans from serving their country.”
For More Info: notransmilitaryban.org
LISTEN: Peter Tatchell Talks LGBTQ Equality & Human Rights
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Harvey Milk Forty Years Later (Audio)

This year on November 27th marks the 40th anniversary when Supervisor Harvey Milk & Mayor George Moscone were assassinated by a deranged gunman at City Hall Plaza in San Francisco, California. It was a day that changed the course of our LGBTQ history forever & a day that I personally will never forget. San Franciscans were still in shock by news of the Jonestown Massacre which took the lives of 900 members of their community when the news broke after San Francisco Board Member Dianne Feinstein heard gunshots & called police & then found Milk face down on the floor shot five times, including twice in the head. Soon after she announced to the press stating, "Today San Francisco has experienced a double tragedy of immense proportions. As President of the Board of Supervisors, it is my duty to inform you that both Mayor Moscone & Supervisor Harvey Milk have been shot & killed & the suspect is Supervisor Dan White." Milk was 48 years old & Moscone was 49. White turned himself in at the police station where he was formerly an officer & the term "Twinkie defense" came from his murder trial that convicted him of the lesser crime of manslaughter. Outrage over White's lenient sentence caused a riot by angry protestors. After White was released from prison he committed suicide shortly afterwards in 1985. On Tuesday November 27th at 5P the Castro Theatre will host a free screening of the Oscar-winning documentary “The Times of Harvey Milk” & at 7P there will be a memorial vigil at Harvey Milk Plaza in the Castro organized by the Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club & contemporaries of Milk followed by a candlelight procession to City Hall where there will be additional community reflections. Listen: Cleve Jones Talks About Harvey Milk:
For More Info: milkfoundation.org
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Trans Day of Remembrance (Audio)

On Transgender Day of Remembrance we observed those who have been murdered as a result of transphobia. November 20th is an internationally oserved day to draw attention to the continual violence against our transgender community. In a new report since the start of 2018 at least 22 transgender people have been killed in the U.S. & 2017 were deadliest on record with at least 29 transgender people killed. Nearly nine in every 10 victims were transgender women & 45 percent of all domestic deaths occurred in the U.S. South. Jay Brown, Acting Senior Vice President, HRC Foundation stated, "At least 128 transgender people with the vast majority transgender women of color have been killed in the last five years. But most people can't even name one victim -- one human being who left behind family, friends & a future. We must do better. Solidarity means showing up, speaking out, saying their names & steadfastly working to change the realities that conspire to put transgender people at risk of violence. We can do better." Education is key & in this exclusive audio interview we talked with author & activist Brynn Tannehill about her new book “Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Trans (But Were Afraid to Ask)” that really does tell you everything you need to know about transgender issues & serves as a valuable reference source to debunk many of the untruths circulating about our transgender community.  
For More Info: hrc.org
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The Dance-Along Nutcracker Event

Hailed as one of the best bets for holiday dance the Dance-Along Nutcracker is one of San Francisco’s most treasured holiday events that takes place at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts on December 8th & 9th. The Dance-Along Nutcracker® is a casual, fun & family-friendly show combining the classic music from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite with a live musical adventure featuring a talented cast. This year’s show centers on the magical adventures of Clara Potter & her friends at Fogwarts School in "Clara Potter & The Elder Baton" as they search out the long-lost Elder Baton on a quest to save their school music program. Throughout the show the audience is invited to “Dance-Along” to the ballet allowing everyone the opportunity to express themselves in a welcoming & supportive environment. Magical costumes are highly encouraged. Each year the San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band blends Tchaikovsky’s classic Nutcracker Suite with a fun theme. The result is a fun-filled musical production brimming with wit, artistry & ingenuity. The talented cast sings & dances their way through a parody version of the Nutcracker. Then when the “Dance-Along” sign flashes, the audience is invited to tug on their tutus & sashay along with the cast. Join Clara Potter & her friends on a fun-filled musical adventure, featuring secret riddles, an evil school board, kazoos, a three-ish headed dog & more music & dancing than you can shake a wand at. General admission for adults is $35 & child, students & seniors are $20. Save 10% with code: ClaraPotter for general seating. For premium seating which guarantees first four rows tickets are adults $45 & child, students & Seniors $28.
For Info & Tix: sflgfb.townalive.com
LISTEN: Singer Joey Suarez Talks Pop Hit “Dancing By Myself” 
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GMHC To Honor Michael Urie

Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) has announced they will honor multitalented performer & director Michael Urie at their 2018 GMHC Cabaret & Howard Ashman Award event for his contributions to the LGBTQ community & the fight against HIV/AIDS. The event takes place at Joe’s Pub in The Public Theater at 425 Lafayette Street in NYC on Sunday December 16th from 7P to 9P. GMHC Kelsey Louie stated, “We’re so proud to have Michael Urie on our side as we work to keep HIV/AIDS in the spotlight & as we strive to engage a new generation with the important work we do every single day on behalf of people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS. Michael understands the past, present & future of the epidemic & has approached his activism in the same thoughtful way he approaches his incredible career in entertainment & he like many in the Broadway community is an important member of the GMHC family of supporters.” Urie concluded, ”GMHC has long been a beacon of hope. From the terrifying early days of the epidemic to the confusing present when everyone’s basic rights are at risk, GMHC has had our backs. That my small part in the fight means anything to them is humbling & extremely rewarding. They are heroes & I am proud to stand with them.” Urie has been a fierce advocate for the LGBTQ & HIV/AIDS communities for more than a decade appearing at major AIDS Walks around the country & helping to raise vital funds for AIDS service organizations including GMHC. Performers will be announced in the coming weeks & tickets start at $150. We talked with Michael on OUTTAKE VOICES™ a few years ago. LISTEN...
For More Info & Tix: gmhc.org
LISTEN: Singer Joey Suarez Talks Pop Hit “Dancing By Myself” 
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Taiwan To Vote On LGBTQ Equality

There are five ballot initiatives on November 24th in Taiwan that will impact our LGBTQ community. Three initiatives would harm LGBTQ people including two attempting to undermine a landmark Taiwanese Constitutional Court decision supporting marriage equality & another that would repeal a portion of the Gender Equity Education Act which supports LGBTQ inclusion in Taiwan’s school curriculum. In contrast two other initiatives would affirm marriage equality & the importance of the Gender Equity Education Act. Noting that diversity & inclusion are good for business 27 Taiwanese & multinational companies have come out in support of LGBTQ Equality in Taiwan stating, “Diversity, inclusion, respect, equality & non-discrimination are values that we cherish & seek to uphold in our companies & in our business dealings. We do this not only because it is the right thing to do but because it makes our companies & our society stronger & more successful. Research has shown that a diverse workforce is more creative, productive & competitive. Policies that support & promote diversity & inclusion in the workplace also help businesses in Taiwan attract & retain the top talent we need to remain competitive in the global economy…” Erin Uritus, CEO, Out & Equal Workplace Advocates concluded, “We applaud these leading Taiwanese & multinational corporations for publicly standing with their LGBTQ employees & the entire community in Taiwan. These companies know that creating an environment where their LGBTQ employees feel welcome & respected both within their companies & in society more broadly is not only the right thing to do, it’s also good for business & good for Taiwan.”
For More Info: outandequal.org
LISTEN: Singer Joey Suarez Talks Pop Hit “Dancing By Myself” 
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