About Me

Carlos McMillan Fuentes To Be Honored

Carlos McMillan Fuentes currently serving as Keyboardist & Composer In Residence for Symphony d’Oro, Rancho Cordova will be the third recipient of the San Francisco Pride Band’s BIPOC Commission Program. Fuentes will premiere his composition “American Epic” at the band’s upcoming spring concerts “On a High Note” on Sunday June 8th at the Herbst Theatre in San Francisco at 3P & 5P. Chris Hewes San Francisco Pride Band Board President stated, “We’re all so excited to bring the full scope of Carlos’s artistry to our San Francisco Pride Band audience. “American Epic” is a wonderful composition that we are proud to perform, as it vividly paints a picture of the Band through the decades, from the inception of the band in 1978 to present day.” Fuentes added, “Each section of music is inspired by a genre which shaped & defined American culture during that time. Disco, punk rock, hip-hop & even protest songs make an appearance, as well as stretches of music in-between which represent the band overcoming strife & its evolution & growth. The main themes represent the members of the band & their reappearance throughout symbolizes their resilience”. Fuentes will also be featured soloist for a separate & well-known piece as Pete Nowlen Artistic Director concluded, “It’s always a privilege to present “Rhapsody in Blue” - the beloved American masterpiece composed by George Gershwin - but even more so when featuring such a dynamic performer as Carlos.” Founded in 1978 the San Francisco Pride Band is the first openly-gay musical organization in the world inspiring the formation of LGBTQ bands, choruses & performing groups globally. 
No comments:

National Equity Week In Washington DC

The 2nd annual National Equity Week bringing together civil rights organizations, Black entrepreneurs, ballroom houses, faith & political leaders takes place Wednesday June 11th to Saturday June 14th in in Washington, D.C. This year’s Equity Week comes at a critical moment for our country as attacks on civil rights, economic opportunity, LGBTQ & Black communities escalate across federal, state & local levels. With more than 100 local governments advancing reparations efforts & public demand growing for structural change Equity Week 2025 is a call to Congress & elected officials nationwide that the time for equity is now. Dr. David J. Johns, CEO & Executive Director of the National Black Justice Collective stated, “The demand for equity is not a partisan issue—it’s a moral obligation. Equity Week exists because too many of our leaders still haven’t met the moment. Reparations, equity & equality, voting rights & economic justice are not fringe demands; they are the foundation for a functioning democracy. We are here to affirm: we will not be ignored & will not stop until our communities receive what is owed.” Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter, Executive Director of United by Equity concluded, “You cannot spell equality without equity. Therefore, equity is essential & let us be undeterred & encouraged in our pursuit. National Equity Week is a time to celebrate our communities & to recommit ourselves to achieving equity, truth & repair for all of our children, communities & the generations to come.” There will be fabulous events happening all week long & will culminate on Saturday June 14th from 12P to 1P honoring the legacy of Bayard Rustin with a powerful gathering & ceremonial walk around the National Mall Reflecting Pool. 
No comments:

Broadway Bares San Francisco Event

The 8th annual Broadway Bares SF fundraising event benefitting The Richmond/Ermet Aid Foundation (REAF) & Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS (BCEFA) takes place Sunday June 15th for a night of dazzling performances & jaw-dropping talent at 1015 Folsom in San Francisco. This year’s show “Hex Appeal” brings a spellbinding cast featuring RuPaul’s Lady Camden, illusionist Jack Alexander & cabaret star Leanne Borghesi. Ken Henderson, REAF Executive Director & CEO stated, “This will be our 8th edition of Broadway Bares SF & these shows just keep getting better & better. This year, we'll have our largest cast of dancers yet & they always knock my socks off at how great they are, how much fun they have & how dedicated they are to the cause.” When you attend Broadway Bares SF you're not just enjoying a spectacular show. This is a fundraising event that uplifts our community in these challenging times. Every dollar raised supports HIV/AIDS services, food pantries & meals programs as well as critical programs for unhoused youth locally & across the country. Since 2016 REAF has partnered with BCEFA to present the San Francisco version of this popular benefit show thanks to director Deb Leamy. The show is now co-directed by Stacey Printz & co-produced by Damien Beard. Broadway Bares was originally created by Jerry Mitchell the Tony Award–winning director & choreographer & has been one of NYC’s largest annual fundraising events for over 30 years. Whether you’re a theater lover, a dance enthusiast or simply looking for something different & meaningful to do this event promises an evening that entertains, uplifts & gives back. 
No comments:

Amy Tee Returns To The Comedy Scene

Comedian Amy Tee with her fearless wit, raw honesty & sharp humor will bring her much needed comedic spin back to The Comedy Scene located at 200 Patriot Place in Foxboro, MA on Saturday June 7th at 8P. Amy stated, “I’m thrilled to be hitting the stage this weekend—there’s nothing like the electric vibe of a great comedy club crowd, especially during Pride Month. It’s an honor to celebrate authenticity, laughter & community all in one night!” As a fixture on the New England & National comedy circuit Amy’s been featured on Sirius XM Satellite Radio & appeared as a showcased comedian in the film “Laughing Matters-The Next Generation”. Known for her show "Humor With Humanity" her goal is to entertain in these challenging times through laughter while breaking down stigmas attached to a variety of issues currently facing our community. As a comedian, a philanthropist & an educational public speaker Amy presents her truth about her own metal health journey & how she has rediscovered the world in a whole new light after 14 years of sobriety. This led her to create Experimental Comedy Therapy (ECT) that reaches out to like-minded individuals with similar goals & aspirations. The Comedy Scene at Patriot Place has grabbed the spotlight in Foxboro showcasing the best in national & regional comic talent. Amy Tee exemplifies this identified by the Boston Globe as a rising star & in Curve Magazine as one of the "funniest lesbians in America" as she returns to The Comedy Scene for this must-see show Saturday June 7th at 8P with $30 tickets still available. 
No comments:

Historic March Through Nation’s Capital

Emmy winner Laverne Cox, powerhouse performer Reneé Rapp & Deacon Maccubbin organizer of Washington DC’s first Pride event will serve as Grand Marshals for the WorldPride DC 2025 Parade on Saturday June 7th. Laverne Cox stated, “I am so honored to serve as one of the grand marshals for World Pride this year. This has been one of the most difficult times in recent history for queer & trans people globally but in the face of all the rhetorical, legislative & physical attacks, we continue to have the courage to embrace who we truly are, to celebrate our beauty, resilience & bravery as a community. We refuse to allow fear to keep us from ourselves & each other. We remain out loud & proud.” Reneé Rapp added, “Pride is everything. It is protection, it is visibility, it is intersectional but most importantly, it is a celebration of existence & protest." Ryan Bos, Executive Director of Capital Pride Alliance, host of WorldPride 2025 concluded, “Reneé, Laverne & Deacon each embody the authenticity, resilience & fearless advocacy at the heart of our movement. Having them lead this historic parade reminds us that Pride is both a celebration of how far we’ve come & a call to keep marching forward.” The historic procession starts this Saturday at 2P from the intersection of 14th Street & T Street NW in the vibrant Logan Circle neighborhood. From there the parade travels down 14th Street & turns on Pennsylvania Avenue transforming the route into a rainbow corridor of pride & joy. The parade culminates in front of the iconic backdrop of the U.S. Capitol as a powerful symbol of LGBTQ visibility & progress. 
No comments:

Boston Portraits Of Pride Soirée Event

The Boston LGBTQ+ Museum of Art, History & Culture is kicking off their signature annual public art exhibition “Portraits Of Pride” with a fundraising event on Sunday June 1st at The Connector 250 Devonshire Street in Boston, MA from 5P to 9P. Arline Isaacson Museum Board Chair stated, “Massachusetts has played a pivotal role in the history and growth of the LGBTQ community. Our people deserve a museum that celebrates the art, culture & history of the LGBTQs In Massachusetts. The museum has already organized & sponsored numerous notable exhibits, events & presentations. With financial support from our friends, families & allies, we’ll continue to grow & move towards our plans for a large & permanent location.” This year’s portraits include Department of Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, Julie Chen Chancellor of UMass Lowell, Photographer Craig Bailey, Dr. Gary Bailey Simmons University Director for the School of Social Work, Abe Rybeck Founder of The Theater Offensive, Philip A. Nardone, Jr. President & CEO of PAN, Arnold Sapenter, Susu Wong Founder of Tomo 360, John Ward Founder of GLAD Law, Harold du Four-Anderson Founder Bayard Rustin Breakfast, Civil Rights Attorney Mary L Bonauto, John Lam Professor of Dance, LGBTQ Elders Activist David Aronstein, Cambridge Mayor Denise Simmons, Gretchen Van Ness Executive Director of Pryde Senior Housing, Activists Paul Glass & Charles Evans & more. In these challenging times “Portraits of Pride” serves as a beacon of hope, resilience & advocacy. The exhibition honors the past, uplifts the present & inspires a brighter future. Funds raised will go towards a permanent exhibit telling the history of the LGBTQ movement in Massachusetts. 
No comments:

Connecticut Out Film Festival 38th Year

Since 1987 Out Film CT has presented a fabulous film festival bringing outstanding LGBTQ cinema to Connecticut. Organizers have announced the full lineup for their 38th film festival that runs June 20th to 28th that takes place at the festival's longtime home the historic & elegant Cinestudio on the campus of Trinity College in Hartford, CT. In addition there are virtual-only exclusives for film fans to enjoy at home. Shane Engstrom Festival Director stated, “We are proud to be screening a total of 91 full-length features & short films this summer. Our volunteer committee viewed over 700 submissions from around the globe & the committee's final selections represent dramas, comedies, documentaries & more from over 28 different countries. The 38th Connecticut LGBTQ Film Festival will offer 3 world premieres, 6 North American premieres, 2 U.S. premieres & over 35 East Coast, Northeast U.S. & New England premieres. We are truly bringing the best of international queer cinema to Connecticut audiences." There will also be special events including the Opening Night after-party on Friday June 20th, a free post-film reception after Culinary Uprising: The Story of Bloodroot on Sunday June 24th at 4P, the Centerpiece film free pre-reception on Wednesday June 25th at 6:30P & the Closing Night celebration on Saturday June 28th where film fans & filmmakers can mix & mingle over cocktails & nibbles. Virtual exclusive features & shorts programs will be available for at-home enjoyment from Saturday June 21st through Sunday July 6th. All Access FestiPasses are now on sale & individual tickets are $13, $11 seniors & free for students with ID. The Opening & Closing Night films that include the after-party are $30 & $25 senior tix. 
No comments:

Against The Tide Fundraising Events

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition’s Against the Tide fundraising events attracts participants from across the state & region to support MBCC’s mission of breast cancer prevention. Online registration is now open for their 33rd Hopkinton Event on Saturday June 14th at DCR’s Hopkinton State Park & the 26th Cape Event on Saturday June 21st at DCR’s Nickerson State Park in Brewster, MA with virtual events happening from June 14th to 21st. Athletic events include a USMS-Sanctioned 1-mile swim, 1-mile recreational & competitive swims, ½-mile recreational swim, USATF-Certified 5K & 10K runs & a 3-mile fitness walk. Cheryl Osimo, Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition Executive Director stated, “I feel so honored to invite everyone to support MBCC's mission of breast cancer prevention. Funds raised for Against the Tide are used to continue & expand our unique programs to prevent breast cancer. We collaborate with research organizations, both local & national & academic professionals, to identify & educate about toxic chemicals in our environment that may cause breast & other cancers. We make our webinars & educational modules available free. We also advocate for changes to public policy in order to eliminate these chemicals from the places where we work & live. We strive to change the legacy of breast cancer for future generations. People from all over New England & the country come to support MBCC's work & the athletic components offered at Against the Tide & you can too!” Funds raised will support MBCC’s mission of changing the legacy of breast cancer for future generations & will support important community education programs including Let’s Talk Prevention: Reducing Toxic Exposures, the MBCC Webinar Series & their newly-expanded student environmental health program. 
No comments:

Bradbury Sullivan Health Event (AUDIO)

This week I talked with Chrystina Obleschuk, Director of Programs at the Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center about their timely Health Summit that takes place for free on June 3rd at the Mack Experience Center in Allentown, PA. The Summit will featuring expert speakers & findings from their LGBTQ Health Needs Assessment Survey taken 2024 by thousands of participants covering many aspects of health & well-being from mental health to basic needs for our community. To kick off the summit Keynote Speaker Tommy Walcott-Lee a queer public health scholar, educator & advocate will address bringing together LGBTQ health, human rights & global justice. Special featured speakers will include (ret) Admiral Rachel Levine, MD who has not only been a pioneer for health in the state of Pennsylvania as Secretary of Health & Physician General but also for the nation at large having served as the 17th Assistant Secretary for Health in the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. In addition Adrian Shanker founding Executive Director of Bradbury-Sullivan will speak who went on to serve in the Biden-Harris Administration as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health Policy & Senior Advisor on LGBTQI+ Health Equity at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services & previously served as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS. There will also be panels with crucial information & guidance to assist LGBTQ orgs with policies, advocacy, grant writing & funding in these challenging times. I talked to Chrystina about what she hopes to accomplish with Bradbury-Sullivan Health Summit & her spin on our LGBTQ issues. LISTEN  
No comments:

Cathy Marcello Modern Military Leader

Cathy Marcello is serving as Interim Executive Director of the org while the board of directors conducts a national executive search. Cathy has been on Modern Military staff since 2022 & recently served as Deputy Director bringing deep institutional knowledge & operational expertise. Marcello stated, “It’s a privilege to support the organization during this transition. Our mission remains vital & I look forward to ensuring continuity as we prepare for the next phase of executive leadership.” With 13+ years of experience Cathy’s proficiency has helped Modern Military to further expand its advocacy, programming & awareness on behalf of LGBTQ military families. Her expertise has proven vital in enabling countless families & individuals to find their way through intricate systems in these challenging times. Her dedication to fostering a supportive & inclusive environment has been a driving force in the success of Modern Military. The board of directors has commenced a comprehensive search process for a new Executive Director in partnership with Waller Consulting. Modern Military is committed to finding a passionate & skilled leader who will leverage the organization’s current strengths & drive further success. The organization is committed to a seamless transition, maintaining the continuity of its essential programs & services for LGBTQ & HIV-positive military & veteran communities. Modern Military is the nation’s largest organization of LGBTQ service members, military spouses, veterans, their families & allies. They educate, advocate & champion for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ service members, veterans, and their families. They envision an inclusive & equitable military environment where every member of the LGBTQ & HIV-positive community is respected, valued & empowered to thrive.
No comments:

Jason Stuart & Mitch Hara “Smothered”

Smothered the hit short-form comedy series starring Jason Stuart & Mitch Hara is now available on TUBI. The 2 outrageous binge worthy seasons are about a bitchy, battling couple (Stuart & Hara) who can't stand each other but can't afford to get divorced. They attempt to salvage their hideous relationship in therapy hell but when that fails they attempt to rob a Wells Fargo to get away from each other & wind up in jail in the same cell. The series written by Mitch & Jason is directed by Terri Hauser & Carlyle King. Jason stated, “We are so thrilled that we’re getting a wider audience to watch our show.” Mitch added, “I’m so good in this, I’m thrilled the rest of the world has a chance to see me.” Both Stuart & Hara were nominated for Best Actor & the series for Best Digital Series at the Queerty Awards. The stellar cast includes Emmy winner Jai Rodriguez (Bros), Amanda Bearse (Married with Children), Robert Costanza (Tulsa Kings), Helen Hong (Suits LA), Armand Field (Queer As Folk), Erika Ervin (American Horror Story), Carole Ita White (Laverne & Shirley) Jasper Cole (The Rookie), Aida Rodriguez (Fighting Words), Scott Krinsky (Tangerine), Nicole Lynn Evans (Criminal Minds), Dalia Ali Rajah (Grey’s Anatomy) & Kareem Ferguson (Winning Time). Smothered is an unique blend of comedy bound to touch your hearts or make you want to laugh till you're happy you're still single. Comedian Jason Stuart has appeared in over 285 film & TV shows & Mitch Hara has acted in multiple series & features as well as his internationally acclaimed & award-winning solo show Mutant Olive. I talked to Stuart & Hara about Smothered & more in this exclusive podcast in 2023. LISTEN  
No comments:

Vermont Passes Adoption Legislation

Vermont continues to lead on ensuring all families are protected & treated equally with passage of a new law making it easier for parents who have had a child through assisted reproduction to confirm their parentage through adoption. Co-sponsor of H.98 Rep. Martin LaLonde stated, “Parents who use assisted reproduction, in Vermont & elsewhere, continue to face the reality that other states may discriminate against them & refuse to recognize their legal status as parents because of a lack of genetic connection — especially if the parents are LGBTQ. Although Vermont recognizes parents who use assisted reproduction with donor gametes as legal parents, other states may not. With an adoption decree, if the family travels or moves to another state, that state must recognize the parents’ legal relationships to their children. Streamlining the adoption process enables families to more easily obtain this important layer of protection.” Polly Crozier, GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders Director of Family Advocacy concluded, “This is an important step toward ensuring that LGBTQ+ families in Vermont are able to protect themselves wherever they may travel. With extremists escalating their attacks on LGBTQ+ people across the country, parents are justifiably seeking paths to secure their legal parent-child relationship, including through adoption decrees, which are easily recognizable & must receive respect in all jurisdictions. Vermont joins nine other states with confirmatory adoption laws & we expect others will follow their lead. We’re thankful to Representatives Rachelson & LaLonde for championing this bill & to Governor Scott for signing it into law.” The law was passed as LGBTQ families grow more concerned about attacks on LGBTQ people at the federal level & in states that are less LGBTQ friendly than Vermont.
No comments:

In The Spotlight Event With Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz will moderate a panel with celebrated trailblazers including actor Raven-Symoné, actress Trace Lysette, musician & model Laith Ashley & actor Brian Michael Smith entitled “In the Spotlight: The Power & Duty of Storytelling in Human Rights” on Thursday June 5th from 4PM to 4:50P at the JW Marriott in Washington DC & virtually. Ryan Bos, Executive Director of the Capital Pride Alliance & host of WorldPride 2025 stated, “We’re bringing together bold, influential voices who have helped redefine what visibility looks like on screen & in society. This panel is a celebration of progress & a call to action to continue expanding representation & access in media, culture & beyond.” The “In the Spotlight” panel adds to a robust lineup of speakers & sessions at the Human Rights Conference which will feature workshops, keynotes & roundtables on pressing global & domestic LGBTQ issues. Previously announced speakers include Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde, Dr. Lady Phyll, T.S. Madison, Richa Tripathi, Yasmin Benoit & dignitaries & thought leaders from Iceland, Australia, & the U.S. alongside artists. The WorldPride DC 2025 Human Rights Conference takes place June 4th to 6th bringing together global changemakers, artists, advocates & allies united by a shared mission to create a world where human rights are universally respected & the dignity of all people is upheld. The conference hosted at the JW Marriott in the heart of the U.S. Capital will serve as a platform for action, storytelling & collaboration through compelling programming & meaningful dialogue on both global & local levels. 
No comments:

Fenway Health Strides For Action Event

Fenway Health has rebranded AIDS Walk Boston into Strides For Action Walk & Run that takes place Sunday June 1st at Artesani Park in Boston, MA. In these challenging times this fundraising event is so crucial as HIV prevention funds are being gutted, access to gender affirming care is being threatened & critical research is under attack. Strides For Action is a way to pushback by joining community members, advocates & leaders for a 5K walk/run to support the future of healthcare for all. Jordina Shanks, Fenway Health CEO stated, “We’re excited to kick off Pride month with Strides For Action which promises to be a good time for folks of all ages & backgrounds. It’s a wonderful opportunity to come together & stand in solidarity for health equity for the communities we serve & is an important source of funding for the care & services our community needs & deserves.” Strides For Action Walk & Run registration begins June 1st at 8A followed by a speakers program. Then Reimagym fitness gym from Medford, MA will get participants moving & energized with a fun all-levels warm-up to kick off the walk/run on the right foot. The 5K run & walk starts at 9:45A & the event concludes with a wellness festival & entertainment by The Femmes an all-woman & non-binary band providing a high energy concert experience. Strides for Action is presented by MassMutual with additional corporate support provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA, Beth Israel Lahey Health, Gilead Pharmaceuticals, ViiV Healthcare, Blueprint Medicines, AAFCPAs, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals & American Tower. 
No comments:

Night of a Thousand Judys NYC Event

The 13th annual “Night of a Thousand Judys” concert to benefit The Ali Forney Center takes place at Joe’s Pub on Monday June 2nd in NYC. This fabulous all-star concert honors Judy Garland with songs from her legendary career as movie star, recording artist & stage performer. “Night of a Thousand Judys” is written & hosted by Justin Elizabeth Sayre who stated, “For Pride this year, we are thrilled to bring you this fabulous lineup of talented singers to celebrate our beloved Judy Garland & raise funds for The Ali Forney Center.” Performing this year will include Grammy winner & Tony nominee NaTasha Yvette Williams (Some Like it Hot), SAG Award winner Lea DeLaria (“Orange Is the New Black”), Tony winner Debbie Gravitte (Jerome Robbins’ Broadway), Grammy & Emmy winner Adam Kantor (The Band’s Visit), indie rock band BETTY (“The L Word,” Sondheim at Carnegie Hall), Alexis Michelle (“RuPaul’s Drag Race”), Debbie Wileman (Carnegie Hall, London’s West End), Molly Pope, Rose Levine (Fire Island legend) & Marissa Mulder (Café Carlyle, Lincoln Center). This year’s honorees are Emmy winner Jeremy Katz who will receive the inaugural “Good Judy Award” which recognizes an industry leader for their longtime dedication to uplifting our LGBTQ community & Grammy & Obie Award-winner Nathan Lee Graham will be honored with the 2nd annual “Judy Icon Award” for achievement of legendary status following in the footsteps of the honor’s namesake Judy Garland. The show is directed by Peter James Cook & choreography by Jason Wise, Drew Wutke music director, produced by Adam J. Rosen & executive producer Dan Fortune. The Ali Forney Center is the largest provider protecting LGBTQ homeless from the harms of homelessness. (Visual by Patricia Bolaños) 
No comments:

Johnny Mathis Iconic Final Concert

For his final concert "The Voice of Romance" legendary singer Johnny Mathis performed to a sold-out star-studded audience at Bergen Performing Arts Center May 18th in Englewood, NJ. Mathis with his iconic silky vocal masteries is the recipient of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award with a 70-year recording career across various musical genres including stage & film, jazz standards, contemporary pop music with three songs inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame he has recorded 80 original albums & 7 XMAS albums. Our good friend Broadway Diva Liz Callaway was in attendance giving us a heartfelt review stating, “In Act One we were treated to many of his earlier hits including “Chances Are,” “Wonderful! Wonderful!,” “It’s Not for Me to Say,” “Wild Is the Wind,” songs from Kismet, & “Misty.” He ended the act with a medley of Henry Mancini songs, finishing with “Moon River.” Johnny’s rendition of “Moon River” has a big ending, jumping the octave —I held my breath. Could he do it? He did—he nailed it! It was like watching an Olympic gymnast in the final event of their career, stick the landing for a perfect 10!” Mathis who has achieved 50 hits on the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts & ranks as the all-time No. 6 album artist in the history of Billboard's pop album charts performed with a full orchestra alongside his longtime musicians including pianist/conductor Scott Lavender. Check out this pre-concert tribute video for Johnny featuring celebrities including Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kelly Ripa, Mark Consuelos, Clive Davis, Whoopi Goldberg, Chaka Khan, Gayle King, Bubba Knight, Patti LaBelle, Darlene Love, Barry Manilow, Billy Porter, Lionel Richie, Nile Rodgers, Barbra Streisand, Leslie Uggams, Vanessa Williams & more.  WATCH
No comments:

Audre Lorde Wisdom Awards Event

The National Black Justice Collective (NBJC) hosted the 5th annual Audre Lorde Wisdom Awards virtually honoring Black women who have blazed trails in their careers, communities & our LGBTQ civil rights movement. Victoria Kirby York, MPA, National Black Justice Collective Director of Public Policy & Programs stated, “The Audre Lorde Wisdom Awards are about more than just recognition. They remind us that the path we walk today was first cleared by those who fought in the shadows, demanded visibility & spoke truth to power long before it was safe. Many invested their money without a salary or benefits to build a movement that now properly employs thousands. Due to those sacrifices, too many of them never had a retirement or healthcare plan beyond Social Security & Medicare, which is now under attack. This celebration is a chance to honor our elders & learn from their experiences. It’s about making space for the knowledge & inspiration they can provide the next generation & continuing their fight to keep pushing for a better tomorrow while fighting for their right to age with dignity, respect & resources.” This year’s honorees included Rev. Debra Hopkins, filmmaker & activist Michelle Parkerson, Pat Martin CEO of HarlemYES Inc, Senator Pat Spearman, author Rosalyn Taylor O’Neale, social activist & educator Ruby Sales, social justice advocate Sonya Shields & social justice activist Dr. Sylvia Rhue. The event also commemorated National LGBTQ Elders Day. NBJC (National Black Justice Collective) is America’s leading civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black LGBTQ people including people living with HIV. 
No comments:

Massachusetts Celebrates 21 Years

As our country deals with an administration bent on taking away Americans rights, in Massachusetts May 17th marks the 21st 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 17th in 2004 Cambridge, MA became the first city in the United States to issue marriage licenses for gay & lesbian couples. Mary L. Bonauto GLAD’s Senior Director of Civil Rights stated, "When the SJC decided Goodridge, it forever changed the standards for how LGBTQ+ people must be treated under law & raised the bar for equality across the country. This momentous victory would not have happened without the courage, commitment & perseverance of the 14 Goodridge plaintiffs. Their willingness to repeatedly open themselves to public scrutiny, to share the truth of their lives with their neighbors & to face opposition from powerful leaders & institutions, ushered in legal & cultural shifts toward greater acceptance, protection & integration of LGBTQ+ people & families in our communities. We remain grateful for the powerful & empowering efforts of the Goodridge plaintiffs in making marriage equality a reality in Massachusetts & beyond.” I was there & directed & produced this 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 officially became the law in Massachusetts. The film became instrumental in the passage of marriage equality globally as we're about to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Obergefell v. Hodgeson on June 26th. It was shot by Kirsten Martin & narrated by Arline Isaacson, Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus. WATCH  
No comments:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)

Featured Post

Carlos McMillan Fuentes To Be Honored

Carlos McMillan Fuentes currently serving as Keyboardist & Composer In Residence for Symphony d’Oro, Rancho Cordova will be the third re...

Popular Posts