Capital Pride 2019 Grand Marshals

Capital Pride Alliance (CPA) has announced the Grand Marshals of the Capital Pride 2019 Parade that takes place on Saturday June 8th. Earline Budd, Brandon Wolf, Matt Easton & members of the cast of FX’s Pose will lead the Parade in accordance with this year’s theme, shhhOUT: Past, Present & Proud. Commemorating 50 years since the uprisings at Stonewall the theme turns to the past to inform the present & inspire the future of Pride. Ryan Bos, Executive Director of Capital Pride Alliance stated, “These Grand Marshals perfectly exemplify our theme of Past, Present & Proud. It is a momentous year for Pride & we are honored to have such diverse, dedicated & valued advocates in the LGBTQ+ community serving as Grand Marshals. To recognize how far we have come in the 50 years since Stonewall, we must remember our history & work towards imagining our futures. These Grand Marshals epitomize what it means to be engaged with the struggles, needs & hopes of the growing & changing LGBTQ+ community.” The Capital Pride Alliance, located in Washington, DC, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the LGBTQ+ community & its partners through educational events, entertainment, community outreach & celebrations of diversity. Capital Pride produces each year Trans Pride & the Pride Celebration in the nation’s capital, one of the largest Pride events in the country, plus a variety of educational & community events throughout the year. The Capital Pride Celebration, produced by the Capital Pride Alliance begins on May 31st through June 9th.
For More Info: capitalpride.org
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Tim Haughinberry Leads GLCCNV

The Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Nevada (GLCCNV) has announced Tim Haughinberry as the organization’s new president beginning a three-year term effective immediately. Haughinberry stated, “I am honored to take this prestigious position for the GLCCNV to reintroduce Nevada’s advocacy for the prosperity, equality & inclusivity of our state’s LGBTQ community.” As a gay business owner, Haughinberry has been a bold voice for the LGBTQ community through Back Bar USA a beverage marketing & consulting firm working with world-renowned hospitality & beverage brands. Haughinberry is an active member of HRC & previously served on the Board of Directors of Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN). Haughinberry & Back Bar USA regularly support community initiatives including the AIDS Walk Las Vegas & Paint the Town. Tricia Costello, Vice President of the GLCCNV concluded, “The chamber creates a platform to connect corporate partners with LGBTQ suppliers, which will in turn help grow their business. We look forward to the growth of LGBTQ businesses in Nevada & renewing this organization, which is a pillar of our diverse community.” The GLCCNV is the only local governing body that can certify a company as an LGBTQ Business Enterprise which makes it possible for businesses with gay ownership to meet the diversity requirements for companies like Caesars Entertainment, Cox, McCarran International Airport, MGM Resorts International, Wells Fargo & more. Through the work of a new leadership team, including Haughinberry at the helm, the GLCCNV will aim to create new opportunities for diversity within the Las Vegas business community.
For More Info: glccnv.org
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Boston Pride Flag Raising Event

Boston Pride will kick off Pride week with the annual raising of the Rainbow Pride Flag on Friday May 31st at City Hall Plaza at 12P. Sponsored by Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh the Flag Raising at City Hall Plaza is the first official event of Boston Pride Week that runs May 31st to June 11th. Attending the flag raising with also include Samuel Chambers the Mayor’s liaison to our LGBTQ community & Boston City Councilors. Boston Pride is celebrating 49 years of advocacy for our LGBTQ community with this year’s theme “Looking back, Loving Forward,” which represents the recognition of the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots & is meant to encourage the community to reflect back on the many challenges & incredible victories of our LGBTQ+ community in that time. Don Gorton, Chair of the Stonewall50 Boston Pride Committee stated, "Stonewall 50 represents the achievement of the unified LGBTQ community in creating transformative social change. The Boston Pride Committee invites LGBTQ people & our allies to participate in this momentous Golden Anniversary." The Flag Raising will also recognize this year’s Grand Marshal Dale Mitchell, Parade Marshal Ava Glasscott, Honorary Marshal (posthumous) Chris Harris & Champion of Stonewall Honorary Marshal Marsha P. Johnson (posthumous). Boston Pride produces events & activities to achieve inclusivity, equality, respect & awareness in Greater Boston & beyond. Fostering diversity, unity, visibility & dignity they educate, communicate & advocate by building & strengthening community connections. Boston Pride Week 2019 takes place from May 31st to June 11th.
For More Info: bostonpride.org
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Provincetown Film Festival In June

The Provincetown International Film Festival runs June 12th to 16th in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Acclaimed writer/director/actor John Cameron Mitchell (“Hedwig & the Angry Inch”, “How To Talk To Girls At Parties”) has been named the 2019 “Filmmaker on the Edge.” Mitchell who won the PIFF Audience Award for Hedwig in 2001 will return to Provincetown to accept the festival’s highest filmmaking honor in conversation with resident artist John Waters on Saturday June 15th at Town Hall. Andrew Peterson, PIFF’s Director of Programming stated, “We’re thrilled to honor John Cameron Mitchell as our 2019 Filmmaker on the Edge. With each new project he surprises & delights us with his singular point of view, style & skill. His conversation with John Waters is sure to be one for the history books!” The festival’s third annual “Next Wave Award” that recognizes those who have exciting distinctive voices, take artistic risks & have a passionate commitment to independent film will be presented to actress & producer Jillian Bell & her film “Brittany Runs a Marathon” will open the festival on June 12th. Bell & the film’s writer/director Paul Downs Colaizzo will be in attendance at the Opening Night Gala on Wednesday June 12th at Provincetown Town Hall. Lisa Viola, PIFF’s Artistic Director stated, “Opening our festival with playwright-turned-director Paul Downs Colaizzo’s debut, starring the spectacularly talented Jillian Bell, features an original, smart & very funny celebration of perseverance. Jillian Bell’s unparalleled comedic timing & empowering presence is precisely why she is so deserving of this year’s Next Wave Award.” The closing night film will be “Before You Know It” directed by Hannah Pearl Utt on Sunday, June 16th & Hannah Pearl Utt will be in attendance.
For Info & Tix: provincetownfilm.org
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Trump Reversing Healthcare Progress

Trump cowardly left for Japan after his administration proposed a new health care regulation that would reverse 10 years of progress in healthcare provisions prohibiting discrimination against individuals on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, & having terminated a pregnancy. Winnie Stachelberg, Executive Vice President at the Center for American Progress stated, “The proposed rule is yet another attempt by the Trump administration to issue a license to discriminate against LGBTQ people & women. The proposal attempts to strip away protections for patients, making it harder for them to access the health care services they need when they need them. LGBTQ people & women already face barriers to receiving care & the proposal will exacerbate these problems. By diluting & weakening protections from discrimination, patients may get turned away or denied medically necessary care simply because of who they are. Health care is a basic right & all patients deserve to be treated with professionalism & respect. The administration’s attempt to limit protections for LGBTQ people & women under the Health Care Rights Law is an unfair, targeted attack to marginalize certain patients & is completely contrary to the increasingly inclusive direction of sex discrimination law. The Trump-Pence administration cannot turn back the clock on civil rights protections.” Sean Cahill, Director of Health Policy Research at The Fenway Institute concluded, “This proposed regulation is shocking in its scope. The Trump Administration is trying to reverse much of the progress made in federal health policy over the past decade. This will disproportionately hurt transgender people, LGBT people with disabilities, LGBT elders & low-income LGBT people.”
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GLAAD Hollywood Scores (AUDIO)

GLAAD has released its seventh annual Studio Responsibility Index (SRI) that maps the quantity, quality & diversity of LGBTQ people in films released by the seven largest motion picture studios & their subsidiaries during the 2018 calendar year. They found that of the 110 releases from major studios in 2018, 20 (18.2%) included characters that were (LGBTQ. This is an improvement from year’s report which was an all-time low at 12.8%, 14 out of 109 films. The SRI also revealed the second highest percentage of inclusive films found in the 7 year history of the report just behind 18.4 percent of films (23 of 125) in 2016. Sarah Kate Ellis, GLAAD President & CEO stated, “The successful releases of films including Love, Simon, Deadpool 2 & Blockers, brought fresh LGBTQ stories to audiences around the world & have raised the bar for LGBTQ inclusion in film. While the film industry should include more stories of LGBTQ people of color & transgender people, studios are finally addressing the calls from LGBTQ people & allies around the world who want to see more diversity in films.” The SRI also showed that though there was a major improvement of gay, lesbian & bisexual characters, for the second year in a row transgender characters were entirely absent from the 110 major studio releases. Recently we talked to Zeke Stokes, GLAAD Chief Programs Officer about the Studio Responsibility Index in this exclusive audio byte who stated though this year’s report does show an improvement of LGBTQ inclusion we still have a long way to go. READ FULL SRI…
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Hilton and the Global Equality Fund

This year Hilton celebrates its 100th anniversary & partnership with the Global Equality Fund (GEF) managed by the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights & Labor by calling on the travel & hospitality industry to join them as a GEF partner. Katie Fallon, Executive Vice President, Global Corporate Affairs stated, “Hilton is devoted to creating ‘Room for All’ & in conjunction with our long-standing partnership with the Global Equality Fund, we are welcoming the hospitality industry to join us in supporting the remarkable work that the Global Equality Fund does across the world.” Scott Busby, Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights & Labor at the U.S. State Department added, “Hilton’s partnership with the Global Equality Fund has helped ensure support for civil society’s efforts to promote universal human rights & fundamental freedoms. The GEF’s partners are on the leading edge of the international community’s efforts to protect & defend human rights & freedom for all people the world over & we look forward to our continued partnership with Hilton.” To inspire other companies to join, Hilton will be hosting an event with the Global Equality Fund highlighting the work of GEF supported activists & grantees. The Global Equality Fund funded by more than 25 governments, foundations & corporations & provides critical emergency, short-term & long-term assistance to advance & protect the human rights of our LGBTQ community in over 90 countries worldwide. Hilton recently received a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index.
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Laverne Cox Stay True Stay You

Laverne Cox joins H&M’s Love for All collection & the new campaign “The Stay True, Stay You” that’s modeled by a diverse cast of LGBTQ individuals also including Rickey Thompson, Shannon Beveridge, Brock Williams & Chris Lin. H&M continues their support of our LGBTQ community with a fun & festive capsule collection for men, women & non-binary individuals just in time for the 50th anniversary of Stonewall. Laverne Cox, actress & activist stated, "I'm really excited to be a part of this campaign, celebrating an incredible community that I am so thankful & proud to be a part of." The collection features a colorful range of athletic/leisure inspired garments & playful accessories for all. The pieces will be available online & in stores beginning May 30th & 10% of each sale will be donated to the United Nations Free & Equal Campaign which champions for equal rights & fair treatment of our worldwide LGBTQI+ community. Ezinne Kwubiri, Head of Inclusion & Diversity, North America added, "I am full of pride to see the Love for All collection come to life! During the shoot the entire team and cast were excited to be part of a campaign celebrating their similarities and embracing their differences. The collection is just that...bright, fun, sporty and for everyone." The capsule collection spreads the message of individuality, diversity, self-confidence & equality with varied silhouettes & motifs that sport the iconic LGBTQ rainbow.
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World Pride NYC Pride Mural Project

NYC Pride the official host of WorldPride 2019 | Stonewall 50 has announced the WorldPride Mural Project initiative in collaboration with production & curating partners LISA Project NYC the founding partner, HSBC Bank & major supporter Macy’s. Both local & international artists, 50 in total were selected to create murals within the five boroughs of New York that reflect & honor the beauty, struggle & strides of the LGBTQ community. The initial set of murals are on display in Manhattan beginning at Arlo NoMad in Midtown. Now through mid-June the complete set of murals will be unveiled, culminating before the WorldPride 2019 | Stonewall 50 season commences & remaining intact throughout the duration of the month's celebration. Macy's is set to reveal their murals on June 6th in the windows of Macy’s Herald Square & will remain throughout June. Chris Frederick, Executive Director of NYC Pride stated, “Art, in all its forms, has always been an integral means of expression in the LGBTQIA+ community & particularly meaningful to the fabric of New York City’s culture. Street art is a poetic example of this expression & the 50 WorldPride muralists will, no doubt, combine beauty & poignant messaging at a time when our collective stories can be & must be told.” Buff Monster, Tatyana Fazlalizadeh, Nomad Clan, Kunle Martins aka Earsnot IRAK Crew, Gianni Lee & STIK are just a few of the artists whose work will be highlighted as part of the WorldPride Mural Project.
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Connecticut LGBTQ Film Festival

Out Film CT presents the 32nd Connecticut LGBTQ Film Festival that runs May 31st through June 8th offering a wide spectrum of short films & full-length features that highlight the inclusivity & the diversity of our LGBTQ community. There’s something for everyone, with dramas, comedies & documentaries, plus talk backs & parties, mainly at the festival's longtime home at Cinestudio on the campus of Trinity College with special screenings at Real Art Ways, Spotlight Theatres at Front Street & Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art all located in Hartford, Connecticut. Shane Engstrom Festival Director stated, "For the past thirty-one years, we have presented some of the most entertaining, groundbreaking & thought-provoking LGBTQ films available. We invite audiences of all sexual orientations & gender identities to expand their horizons & join us for these remarkable films." Out Film CT’s mission is to entertain, educate & promote community through the exhibition of LGBTQ film. A volunteer, nonprofit cultural organization, Out Film CT is dedicated to presenting outstanding LGBTQ cinema & other theatrical events throughout the year, culminating in the nine-day Connecticut LGBTQ Film Festival. This springtime event, Connecticut’s longest-running film festival, holds a special place Connecticut’s cultural landscape, bringing the community together to introduce, celebrate & rediscover the ideas & values that make the LGBTQ community unique. Out Film CT Opening night & closing night admission which includes the party is general admission $20 each night, students/seniors $15 with all other shows general admission is $10 & student/senior $8.
For Info & Tix: outfilmct.org
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Pence Commencement Sham

Again watching mainstream media’s coverage of Mike Pence’s Saturday commencement address at Taylor University left out the fact that dozens of graduates & faculty exited in protest walking out moments before his introduction. The protest stemmed from disagreement among students, faculty & alumni about whether it was appropriate for the nondenominational Christian liberal arts school to invite Pence to speak in the first place since he’s known for his conservative religious views. So the only audience left to hear his speech filled with religious rhetoric were right-winged bigots. Pence stated, “Throughout most of our American history it’s been pretty easy to call yourself a Christian, but things are different now. Lately, it’s become acceptable, even fashionable, to malign traditional Christian beliefs. So as you prepare to leave this place & build your life on a Christ-centered, world-engaging foundation poured here at Taylor University, be prepared to stand up.” Thousands signed Change.org petitions asking the university to rescind the vice president's invitation to speak but were ignored. So the protest was then planned & discussed prior to Saturday's ceremony. Some graduates & faculty members wore stickers on their robes & hats that said, "We are Taylor too" in protest. Pence has had a busy commencement schedule this spring, having spoken last Saturday at another Christian school, Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he warned graduates to "be ready" to face intolerance of their faith from Hollywood, the media & the secular left. Next Saturday he will speak at graduating U.S. Army cadets at West Point in New York.
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The Equality Act Passes U.S. House

You wouldn't know it by watching mainstream media but Friday the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 5 the Equality Act with a vote of 236 to 173. This is the long overdue legislation that updates existing federal nondiscrimination laws, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 & the Fair Housing Act that confirms that discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is unlawful discrimination based on sex. This would finally extend our LGBTQ community protections to employment, housing, loan applications, education, public accommodations & other areas where we are denied access. Vanita Gupta, President & CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights stated, “Fifty years ago, a small, committed group of activists at the Stonewall Inn demanded an end to discrimination & millions of LGBTQ Americans have joined their ranks since then. The House of Representatives affirmed today that discrimination is wrong & that we must uphold the fundamental American values of freedom & equality. This is a crucial step forward to ensure equal opportunity & dignity for all LGBTQ people in America. Speaker Pelosi, Congressman Cicilline, Chairs Nadler, Scott, McGovern & Waters have been instrumental in achieving this vote & we deeply appreciate their leadership. Now that the House has voted, it is time for the Senate to act.” So now as we head into the 50th Anniversary of Stonewall next month, when & how will the U.S. Senate vote on this bill & if passed will Trump veto it? Ah yes living in the new America…Stay tuned. (Graphic by Richard Emmanuel)
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Marriage Equality Celebrates 15 Years

In Massachusetts May 17th marks the 15th anniversary of marriage equality. It was a watershed moment in the history of civil rights when the landmark Goodridge ruling designated the constitutional right of gay & lesbian marriages in Massachusetts & at midnight on May 17, 2004 Cambridge, MA was the first city in the United States to issue marriage licenses for gay & lesbian couples. We were there & filmed our historic award-winning short film “OUTTAKE: Gay Marriage 2004” shot from midnight on May 17th 2004 in Cambridge & throughout the day in Boston when marriage equality became the law in Massachusetts. The film became instrumental in the passage of marriage equality nationwide in 2013 & was shot by Kirsten Martin & narrated by Arline Isaacson Co Chair of the Massachusetts Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus. The film then morphed into OUTTAKE MEDIA LLC in 2007 & is now being showcased on the homepage of our new boutique streaming site that launched May 1st. WATCH FILM
In Washington DC the Equality Act is about to be voted on today. H.R. 5 passed through the Judiciary Committee on May 1st & the measure has unprecedented support from nearly 70 percent of Americans, more than 280 members of Congress, more than 200 major businesses, more than 70 faith organizations & more than 500 statewide & national organizations. The legislation prioritized by Speaker Nancy Pelosi will ensure LGBTQ people are protected under the nation’s civil rights laws. As an advocate for LGBTQ equality I’m proud of my community resilience to keep moving forward until the Equality Act becomes the law of the land.
Happy 15th Anniversary Massachusetts!!
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LGBT Stonewall Riot Then & Now

With the 50th anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion this June the Gay Liberation Network & Brave Space Alliance are cohosting a forum in Chicago on Friday May 17th to examine what today’s LGBTQ community can learn from the most pivotal event in our history & the movement that immediately followed it. “The Stonewall Rebellion: Lessons for Today” will take place at the Berger Park Cultural Center at 6205 N. Sheridan Road in Chicago from 7P to 9P. Speakers include LaSaia Wade, founder & Executive Director of Brave Space Alliance, Samer Owaida, a queer Palestinian activist & long-time LGBT activist Andy Thayer, co-founder of the Gay Liberation Network. Legendary performers & activists Scott Free & Jenny Urban will perform. While what we know of today as LGBTQ activism preceded the Stonewall Rebellion it was tiny & with little impact compared to what came after. The Gay Liberation Front organizations which sprouted up immediately after the Stonewall Rebellion eventually inspired millions to come out creating movements around the globe. By contrast today we face the threatened erosion of LGBTQ rights in many countries as far-right governments & movements increasingly take office scapegoating our LGBTQ community, immigrants & others to cement their power. In our world of rampantly growing economic inequality, climate catastrophe & unchecked U.S. militarism that’s breeding vicious bigotry against minorities, including LGBTQ community we need a radically different movement today & the Stonewall Rebellion & the movement that followed offer important insights on how this can be achieved.
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LGBTQ Military Orgs Join Forces

Two of the largest LGBTQ military organizations OutServe-SLDN & AMPA are merging to form Modern Military Association of America becoming the nation’s largest non-profit dedicated to education, advocacy & support for the LGBTQ military & veteran community. Andy Blevins Modern Military Association of America Executive Director stated, “I’m both humbled & honored to lead the Modern Military Association of America at this challenging moment in the fight for LGBTQ military equality. While we’ve made tremendous progress over the years as a community, much of that progress is now being threatened & rolled back — especially for our transgender service members who now face an unconscionable transgender military ban. We’re committed to doing everything within our power to stand up for all of our modern military & veteran families & ensure they have a powerful voice in Washington & beyond.” Josh Fontanez, a U.S. Army officer and co-chair of the OutServe-SLDN Board of Director added, “For nearly 26 years, OutServe-SLDN has been fighting for the right of LGBTQ military members to serve our nation openly & authentically. We’re proud to continue that fight by merging with the American Military Partner Association & working together to defend & support the LGBTQ military & veteran community.” Ashley Broadway-Mack AMPA President concluded, “We’re truly excited that both of these incredible organizations are merging to create a formidable force in the battles ahead. By combining forces with OutServe-SLDN, we’re embarking on a new journey fighting for open & authentic service & education, advocacy and support for modern military families.”
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For More Info: modernmilitary.org
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BGMC Presents God Save The Queens

The Boston Gay Men’s Chorus (BGMC) proudly presents “God Save the Queens” a fun-filled, cheeky celebration of rock & pop royalty from across the pond. Coinciding with the start of Boston Pride Week performances will take place Friday, May 31st & Saturday June 1st at 8P & Sunday, June 2nd at 3P at New England Conservatory's Jordan Hall in Boston. Reuben M. Reynolds, III, the Chorus’s Music Director stated, “From the Beatles & Bowie to Adele & Amy Winehouse, ‘God Save the Queens’ showcases some of the most influential artists & sounds in pop music from the last 50 years. These are the songs that generations of LGBT people worldwide have danced to, cried to & come out to—among many other activities that I won’t mention here.” “God Save the Queens” will feature songs spanning the British Invasion of the mid-1960s, the glam and New Wave years of the 1970s & 1980s, the rise of the Spice Girls in the 1990s & the arrival of the likes of Coldplay, Amy Winehouse & Adele in the first decade of the 2000. Craig Coogan BGMC Executive Director concluded, “There really is no better way to get in the spirit of Boston Pride than with 200 singing queens. Especially when they’re performing songs by the Spice Girls.” The performances will take place at the start of the annual Boston Pride Week the city’s annual celebration of the LGBTQ community which begins with a flag raising ceremony May 31st & culminates in the Boston Pride Parade on June 8th. Tickets are $20.00 to $125.00 before ticket fees.
For More Info & Tix: bgmc.org
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Lambda Literary Awards Honorees

Lambda Literary has announced that Alexander Chee, Masha Gessen & Barbara Smith will receive special honors at the 31st Annual Lambda Literary Awards ("Lammys") on Monday June 3rd in NYC at the NYU Skirball Center for Performing Arts. The Lammys are presented to individuals for their extraordinary contributions to literature, publishing & our LGBTQ community. Sue Landers, Executive Director stated, "For over 30 years, the Lammys have celebrated authors who bring necessary, urgent & artful writing into the world & these three individuals are truly exceptional in this regard. We are grateful for their work & look forward to celebrating them at this year's Lammys." Alexander Chee will receive Lambda Literary's Trustee Award for his immeasurable contributions to culture as a novelist, essayist, activist & teacher. Award-winning actor Anthony Rapp will present Chee with this honor. Masha Gessen will receive the 2019 Visionary Award for their work advancing public awareness around the global threat of totalitarianism. HuffPost Editor-in-Chief Lydia Polgreen will present Gessen with their award. Barbara Smith will receive the Publishing Professional Award for her work as an author, publisher & activist through which she opened up a national discourse about the intersections of race, class, sexuality & gender. Poet Cheryl Clarke will present Smith with her award. The awards will be hosted by Justin Vivian Bond & presenters at this year's ceremony also include Garrard Conley, Cole Escola, Melissa Febos, Karla Jay, Kenyon Farrow, Torrey Peters, Marlon James, Jen Benka, Tyler Ford & Alexis Pauline Gumbs. VIP Ticket are $250 which includes a catered, cocktail reception, priority access to the ceremony & after-party. & General Admission is $150 which includes the ceremony & after-party at Le Poisson Rouge with an open bar (must be 21+).
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Bella Abzug Park Grand Opening

The Bella Abzug Park located between West 34th & West 36th Streets, mid-block between 10th & 11th Avenues is now officially open. The park named after Congresswoman Bella Abzug who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from New York's 20th district from January 3, 1973 to January 3, 1977, will host sculpture exhibitions, a film festival, farmers market, summer film series, children's events, sponsors seasonal fitness & wellness events. All are free & open to the public. Liz Abzug, Founder & President of the Bella Abzug Leadership Institute stated, “Today at the opening ceremony of the 3 acre brand new Bella Abzug Park right in the middle of the Hudson Yards, West Side of Manhattan - the largest & multi billion dollar residential, retail & commercial new community in NYC & in the US today. A huge thank you to former Deputy Mayor Alicia Glen whose vision this was & to my dear friend Borough President Gale Brewer who led the charge of all of the West side electeds’ to support the Park almost all who were there to celebrate with us today. The Hudson Yards Hell’s Kitchen Alliance Bid, NYC Parks Commissioner Silver & yes, the park is located right in the middle of what was her Congressional District. Beautiful fountains, flowers, trees, sitting areas a food place, cafe tables & chairs, kids playground & Man, is this hard to believe or what? Think even Bella would be overwhelmed!!! Gotta say what an incredible tribute to mom & now for the parties and protests there!!” Bella Abzug Park is a shared public space provided for the enjoyment & recreation of the community. For More Info: hyhkalliance.org
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Civil & Human Rights Award Dinner

The 43rd Annual Hubert H. Humphrey Civil & Human Rights Award Dinner will take place at the Washington Hilton on Wednesday May 15th. This year’s event will bestow its highest honor, the Humphrey Award upon the Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II & its Chairperson’s Award to Chad Griffin the outgoing president of the Human Rights Campaign during the dinner. Rev. Barber, the chief architect of the Moral Mondays movement who electrified the Democratic National Convention in 2016 with his plea for Americans to be “the moral defibrillators of our time” is arguably the nation’s most prominent moral leader. Chad Griffin as President of the Human Rights Campaign the nation’s largest LGBTQ civil rights organization has helped build HRC into a political powerhouse capable of winning not only hearts and minds but elections too. The annual dinner is the year’s largest gathering of the civil & human rights community which is noted for bringing together members of both houses of Congress, officials from the executive branch, civil & human rights leaders, business leaders, educators, attorneys & young people representing the next generation of civil & human rights advocates. More than 1,200 people attend the dinner annually. This year’s theme is “We Are Democracy” highlighting the critical work of the diverse civil & human rights coalition to advance justice, inclusion & opportunity in America. The event will be emceed by the longest running female network anchor in the United States, María Elena Salinas.
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The Theater Offensive 30th Gala Event

The Theater Offensive (TTO)’s annual fundraising gala “ClimACTS! Dynasty” takes place May 15th at Venu Nightclub at 100 Warrenton Street in Boston, MA from 6P to 11P. This is a special celebration acknowledging the organization’s 30 years as Boston’s leading LGBTQ theater group & revelers at ClimACTS! Dynasty will have an opportunity to toast TTO’s Founding Director Abe Rybeck who will step down from his current role in July. Rybeck stated, “Back in 1989, we were just doing what felt necessary presenting queer art that defied the status quo & society’s standards of what art should talk about. The origins of Theater Offensive were so urgent – rooted in a time where discrimination & bigotry led to the death of thousands of LGBTQ people from AIDS. Not to mention the violence, discrimination, homelessness (you name it) that LGBTQ people were facing. As queer & trans folks, we needed to come out & share our stories to liberate ourselves! The work is still so urgent today. So many important gains have benefitted the privileged in the LGBTQ community, but most LGBTQ poor folks, youth & people of color still face daunting challenges.” Harold Steward TTO’s Interim Executive Director concluded, “It’s no coincidence that this year’s theme was Dynasty. In the queer community, the concept of Dynasty comes from ball culture & speaks to Houses of queer people competing for their legacy & reputation. It’s also a nod to the ‘80s when TTO was founded, with a wink to the popular television show which will help inspire the fashion & feel for the night. We want this night to be iconic….just like Abe.” So don’t miss Boston’s hottest party where you can Sashay your way among Boston’s brightest & hottest LGBTQ scene with special performances by Ra'jah O'Hara of RuPaul's Drag Race & the OUT on the EDGE Award presentation to Brandon Wolf, Pulse Survivor & LGBTQ Activist. (Abe Rybeck photo by Joel Benjamin)
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Capital Trans Pride Annual Event

Capital Trans Pride’s 11th annual event will take place on Saturday May 18th at Eaton Hotel at 1201 K Street NW in Washington, DC, 20005. This annual event brings together members of the transgender community, allies, colleagues & friends for a day of workshops & panel discussions on a variety of issues important to the Trans community. From 9A to 4P there will be a resource fair as well as health & wellness workshops which are open to the public however pre-registration is encouraged. Then from 5P to 8P a community mixer will take place at The Studio Theater, 1501 14th Street NE in Washington, DC 20005. On Sunday May 19th there will be a film screening of “The Garden Left Behind” followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers and cast. The event provides multiple forums to educate & inform participants on areas of progress & issues in the region & in the nation & will include two guest speakers Cecilia Gentili & special guest, Dr. Rachel Bluebond-Langer. Ian Brown, Executive Producer of Capital Trans Pride stated “Audre Lorde said that “without community, there is no liberation …’ In a time when others seek to erase our community it is more important than ever that we liberate ourselves by coming together to be celebrated & honored” Capital Trans Pride is co-sponsored by Whitman-Walker Health & Booz Allen Hamilton. Additional sponsors include Marriott International, Kaiser Permanente, The DC Office of Human Rights, La Clinica Del Pueblo-Empoderate Center, Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington DC, SMYAL & Alternative Health Associates.
For More Info: capitalpride.org
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The Task Force To Honor Mark Gilbert

The National LGBTQ Task Force has announced that Miami entrepreneur & radio personality Mark Gilbert will receive the 2019 Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award at the National LGBTQ Task Force Gala in Miami on Saturday, October 19th. There will be a Miami Gala Kickoff event on May 7th at No. 3 Social located at 50 NW 24th Street in Miami, Florida from 7P to 9P. Mark Gilbert stated, “Please join me for the kickoff party of the Task Force dinner this Tuesday, May 7th in Wynwood where they are formally announcing my nomination as the recipient of the amazing, prestigious, Eddie Mcintrye Community Award. Let's all share a fun night & please Save the date and join me, Saturday, October 19th for the Task Force Dinner at the Fountainbleu...a truly incredible night.” Mark Gilbert aka MarkyG is a long time fixture in South Florida & has been involved in so many elements & aspects of the diverse South Florida communities & cultures. Mark has been closely involved with the Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (later renamed OUTShine) serving as Executive Director since 2014. Since 1973 the National LGBTQ Task Force advances full freedom, justice & equality for LGBTQ people. They are building a future where everyone can be free to be their entire selves in every aspect of their lives. Today, despite all the progress they’ve made to end discrimination, millions of LGBTQ people face barriers in every aspect of their lives: in housing, employment, healthcare, retirement & basic human rights. These barriers must go. That’s why the Task Force is training & mobilizing millions of activists across our nation to deliver a world where you can be you.
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Women & LGBTQ Citizens Health Risk

The Trump Administration has finalized a health care regulation that will “protect” the “statutory conscience rights” of health care providers by granting federal protection to health care providers who deny services to people who violate the providers’ religious beliefs. Which means a doctor can disregard his or her Hippocratic Oath & deny health service to LGBTQ people or their children based on the belief that gay & lesbian couples should not be allowed to marry or raise children, that people should not have sex outside of heterosexual marriage & that gender identity should not differ from sex at birth. Also the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) final rule calls for notices to be posted in health care settings stating to health care providers: “You may have a right under Federal law to decline to perform, assist in the performance of, refer for, undergo, or pay for certain health care‐related treatments, research, or services (such as abortion or assisted suicide, among others) that violate your conscience, religious beliefs, or moral convictions.” Vanita Gupta, President & CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights stated, “HHS’s final denial of care rule will substantially harm the health & well-being of many – in particular women & transgender patients. The government should protect all patients from discrimination, not make it easier for those in the health care system to discriminate. The rule is also arbitrary & capricious & exceeds the scope of the laws that it seeks to enforce. This rule must be scrapped.” Sean Cahill, Director of Health Policy Research at the Fenway Institute at Fenway Health concluded “Health care is both a human & a civil right. Every law that governs access to health care should put patients first. This new rule does not do that.”
Read HHS Full Doc…
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The Equality Act Passes First Step

The House Judiciary Committee approved a bill Wednesday that will add sexual orientation & gender identity to federal civil rights laws. U.S. Rep. David Cicilline (D-R.I.) introduced the Equality Act in March. The Equality Act passed the committee by a 22 to 10 vote margin with all Republican committee members voting against it. Congressman Cicilline stated, “Fairness & equality are core American values. This bill affirms those values & ensures members of the LGBTQ community can live their lives free from the fear of legal discrimination of any kind.” Vanita Gupta, President & CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights concluded, “Discrimination is wrong & runs counter to the fundamental American values of freedom & equality. Today’s committee vote takes us one step closer to ensuring equal opportunity & dignity for all LGBTQ individuals in America. We applaud Chairman Nadler & Congressman Cicilline for their leadership & committee members for rejecting amendments that would dilute the legislation’s protections. The Equality Act is long overdue & the House of Representatives must pass the bill.” The Equality Act will specifically add gender identity & sexual orientation to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 & the Fair Housing Act. Congressman Cicilline will be the Keynote Speaker at Boston Spirit Magazine’s thirteenth annual LGBT Executive Networking Night takes place on Thursday May 2nd at the Copley Marriott Hotel from 6P to 9P. There is a $15 admission fee at the door to attend the event. (Graphic by Richard Emmanuel)
For More Info: bostonspiritmagazine.com
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