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Celebrating Black Women Leaders Event

The San Francisco Bay Times 4th annual Black History Month celebration of Black women leaders & allies returns Thursday February 26th at the historic White Horse Inn at 6551 Telegraph Avenue in Oakland, CA from 6P to 10P. Returning as welcoming hosts will be Judy Young the Executive Director of the UCSF National Center of Excellence for Women's Health & San Francisco Bay Times publishers Betty Sullivan & Jennifer Viegas. Co-emcees Imani Rupert-Gordon the Executive Director of the National Center for LGBTQ Rights & Joe Hawkins the Co-Founder & CEO of The Oakland LGBTQ Center will honor some of the Bay Area's most accomplished leaders representing numerous fields & generations. Some being honored are also unsung heroines as well as inspiring veteran leaders. One of the special honorees will be legendary performer Linda Tillery & spinning will be Sounds by The Junior. The event will benefit Use The News Foundation & the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center. Use The News Foundation founded in 1998 is a nonprofit whose mission is to produce & support projects that address the needs of LGBTQ people & their allies who are affected by discrimination based on sexual orientation & identity, race, age, religion or national origin. The Oakland LGBTQ Community Center is dedicated to enhancing & sustaining the well-being of LGBTQ individuals, families & allies by providing educational, social & health related activities, programs & services. Established in 1933 the White Horse Inn is the oldest operating gay bar in America. Tickets are $15 for 4th Annual Honoring LGBTQ Black Women Leaders. 
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Stephen Schwartz Wicked NJPAC Event

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center presents a “Wicked Evening With The Wizard: Stephen Schwartz & Friends” the composer/lyricist & wizard behind the music of Wicked & who has penned some of the most fabulous Broadway & Hollywood musicals of the last 5 decades on Saturday February 21st at 7:30P. On this special night Schwartz will lead a symphonic celebration of Wicked’s 22 years on Broadway & the release of the film Wicked: For Good. Along with a 12-piece pops orchestra guest stars will come out to perform hits from Schwartz’s award-winning career: from Godspell to Pippin to Wicked & beyond. Special guests include Liz Callaway, Debbie Gravitte, Kelli Rabke, Shaleah Adkisson, Michael McCorry Rose, Scott Coulter, John Boswell, Evan Roider & more. Experience the gravity-defying music of this magical songwriter. Liz Callaway stated, “So looking forward to singing with Stephen Schwartz on Saturday night at New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)! It's going to be a great night with a wonderful cast & orchestra!” The New Jersey Performing Arts Center mission celebrating diversity is one of America’s foremost urban presenters of arts & entertainment as a creative & effective leader in arts education for children, a convener of useful & enlightening civic engagement events & a catalyst for economic development in its home city of Newark. They present & produce pop, R&B, hip hop, jazz, classical & world music concerts, dance & spoken word poetry performances, comedy shows & conversations with artists, politicians, filmmakers & activists. Their original NJPAC productions include the award-winning The Hip Hop Nutcracker tours the country extending their reach to national audiences. 
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Broadway's Kinky Boots Plays Boston

Kinky Boots on tour runs now through February 22nd at the Citizens Opera House in Boston, MA is not to be missed. The uplifting musical is based on a true story about an unlikely partnership between a struggling shoe factory owner & a drag queen that ultimately saves the family business teaching valuable lessons about acceptance & friendship. Leading the tour are Omari Collins “Scarlett D. Von'Du” as Lola, Noah Silverman as Charlie Price, Sophia Gunter as Lauren, Jason Daniel Chacon as Don, Emma Dean as Nicola & John Anker Bow as George. Dargan Cole, Felipe Cristancho-Rodríguez, Jonathan Blake Flemings, Peyton Gaida, and Blaise Rossmann play the Angels. The Kinky Boots tour also features Carlyn Barenholtz, Connor Buonaccorsi, Brianna Clark, Blake Du Bois, Jayna Glynn, Billy Goldstein, Brandin Jay, Robert Miller, Val Moranto, Dominic Pagliaro, Thomas Ed Purvis, Kyle Williamson & Natalie Lilavois Yusty. Omari Collins as Lola anchors the production with a performance that was charismatic, polished & profoundly encouraging in these challenging times. Collins is returning to play Lola for the 7th time bringing a rich vocal presence, magnetic stage personality all while strutting in heels that made each entrance feel electric with an emphasis on heart & authenticity delivering emotional moments, especially with "Hold Me in Your Heart" a depth that really resonated throughout the theater. The original Kinky Boots was the winner of the Tony, Grammy & London’s Olivier Awards for Best Musical with the Tony Award-winning score by Cyndi Lauper, book by four-time Tony Award-winner Harvey Fierstein & original direction & Tony-winning choreography by Jerry Mitchell. 
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Civil Rights Icon Rev. Jesse Jackson Dies

In the midst of Black History Month we honor the life & legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson one of the most iconic civil rights leader & a fierce ally of our community for decades. Kelley Robinson HRC President stated, “The fight for justice requires courage, hope & a relentlessness that will not be denied. Reverend Jesse Jackson embodied that fight everyday. From disrupting political systems & building people power to helping this country imagine a freer future for all of us, Rev. Jackson was a force… A leading voice during the civil rights movement & decades-long advocate for human rights around the globe, Jackson founded what is now the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition. During the fight to overturn California’s ban on same-sex marriage, Jackson spoke up strongly for marriage equality, saying in part “Marriage is based on love & commitment – not on sexual orientation. I support the right for any person to marry the person of their choosing.” Brian K. Bond, CEO of PFLAG National concluded, “As we learn of the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson, we mourn the loss of a giant among us. When many refused to acknowledge the existence & struggle of LGBTQ+ people, Rev. Jackson saw us, affirmed us & demanded equality inclusively. In his address to the Democratic National Convention in 1984, Rev. Jackson named us specifically as part of the fabric of the ‘American Quilt.’ He has shown up for & marched with the LGBTQ+ movement through the AIDS crisis, marriage equality & ever after. Rev. Jackson’s leadership & allyship for LGBTQ+ people will be felt profoundly by his PFLAG family. We will honor his legacy as we continue to strive to achieve justice & equality for all.” Rev. Jesse Jackson Rest In Power.
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Sahara Revisited In New Florida Exhibit

Of all the fabulous places & people I’ve had the pleasure to meet in my life’s journey wandering into Sahara Nightclub in 1978 in NYC was definitely a highlight. There I established a lifelong ideal of what a chic vibrant lesbian/feminist community could be. Now the Stonewall National Museum’s Women’s Fund in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida is presenting an exhibit entitled “Sahara: NYC’s Lesbian Legacy” with an opening night event on Saturday February 28th & runs until April 5th. In 2019 I talked to Leslie Cohen about the legendary Sahara nightclub that she established with 3 of her friends in May of 1976 that abruptly closed in December of 1979 at 1234 Second Avenue at East 65th Street on Manhattan’s fashionable Upper East Side. There Cohen, Michelle Florea, Linda Goldfarb & Barbara Russo created NYC’s first upscale women’s club that showcased women in art, politics & music. On Thursday night the line went around the block. There were also lots of fabulous events when both men & women were invited in for political fundraisers & cabaret. Celebrities such as Jane Fonda, Tom Hayden, Patti Smith, Pat Benatar, Warren Beatty, Gilda Radner, Jane Curtin, Betty Friedan, Gloria Steinem, Bella Abzug & Elaine Noble the first openly gay state Representative from Massachusetts appeared or performed there. This led to Leslie & her partner Beth Suskin who both sadly passed in the last few years became the models for the iconic sculpture which commemorates the Stonewall Riots in Greenwich Village which was declared a national monument by Obama in 2016 but unfortunately is now under attack by the current administration. I talked to Leslie about Sahara & her spin on the future of our LGBTQ civil rights in this exclusive 2019 podcast. LISTEN  
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Michael Patrick King To Be Honored

HRC announced that it will honor Emmy & Golden Globe writer, director & producer Michael Patrick King at this year’s Los Angeles Dinner that takes place at Fairmont Century Plaza on March 28th. King’s iconic television shows include “Sex & the City”, “And Just Like That” as well as the co-creator director & producer of “The Comeback” which returns to HBO this March. King will be receiving HRC’s Visibility Award for his work uplifting LGBTQ stories on screen & bringing visibility of our community to the entertainment world. Kelley Robinson, Human Rights Campaign President stated, “Michael Patrick King is an undeniable talent whose work has brought so much joy, laughter & heart to our community. Throughout his career, King has helped to expand our visibility, advance our representation & amplify our voices — exemplifying the power of LGBTQ+ storytelling & the depth of our contributions to the entertainment world. It’s an honor to recognize his accomplishments & to celebrate our community alongside Los Angeles’ advocates who are committed to fighting for the equality we all deserve.” Michael Patrick King concluded, “The inclusion of LGBTQ+ narratives is integral for meaningful storytelling. Our stories are an undeniable part of the human experience & they deserve to be told in every medium. As our community faces attempts to exclude us on & off screen, it is important that we continue to unapologetically make our voices heard. I’m thrilled to have my accomplishments recognized & to be joined in this work by advocates from Los Angeles & beyond.” The HRC Los Angeles Dinner raises crucial funds in the fight for LGBTQ equality. 
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Barkow & Garcia Take The Dinah Helm

After 35 legendary years The Dinah has been sold by founder & producer Mariah Hanson to event producer & longtime Dinah Operations Manager Bella Barkow & seasoned Dinah emcee reality TV star & real estate entrepreneur Rose Garcia. The acquisition ensures The Dinah will remain independently owned, community-led & deeply rooted in our LGBTQ culture now operating under the marquee of the duo’s newly founded company BellaRose Productions. Barkow stated, "The Dinah has been a cornerstone of queer culture for decades & being part of its future is an honor. Coming out at 13 in the late ’90s wasn’t easy, but seeing The Dinah on The L Word made it feel a little less scary. Working alongside Rose to carry forward Mariah’s legacy is deeply personal for me. This festival was my safe space & it’s my hope that we keep it alive for the next generation of young sapphics searching for the same sense of belonging." Garcia concluded, "I’ve been to over 20 Dinah events & each one has been unforgettable, a place to meet incredible women, build lifelong friendships & feel fully accepted. Keeping The Dinah in the family ensures Mariah’s legacy lives on. Bella & I share the same deep love & unwavering dedication for this festival & I know her vision is safe with us." This should be an extremely interesting transition of this iconic event. I’ve known Rose Gracia from our relationship as a media sponsor of The Dinah over the last 10 years. I’m looking forward to talking with them about what they have planned in the near future so stay tuned. The Dinah 2026 takes place September 30th through October 4th returning to the Hilton Hotel & The Zoso in Palm Springs, CA. 
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Women’s Media Awards 21st Honorees

The Women’s Media Center co-founders Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan & Gloria Steinem have announced the honorees for the 21st anniversary of the Women’s Media Center’s Media Awards to be held on Thursday March 5th at the Tribeca Rooftop in NYC. The WMC Awards are presented to outstanding leaders & champions for women in media. This year’s honorees are Chandra Childers, Julie F. Kay, Barbara Kopple, Christine Neumann-Ortiz, Paola Ramos, Maribel Pérez Wadsworth & Margot Wallström. Julie Burton, Women’s Media Center President & CEO stated, “The Women’s Media Center’s call to action is simple: We want to see more diverse women, hear more diverse women & read articles from more diverse women across all media platforms. Our Women’s Media Awards honor champions for women who set the standard for what media should look like when it gives voice to the female half of the country. They are role models, history-makers & inspiring leaders.” The Women’s Media Awards Co-Chairs are Loreen Arbus, Donna Deitch, Kiehl Friedman Family, Mellody Hobson, Cindy Holland, Carlene C. Laughlin, Cynthia McFadden, Michelle Mercer & Bruce Golden, Pat Mitchell, Susan Pritzker, Sheryl Sandberg, Regina K. Scully, Alexandra Shiva & Mary & Steven Swig. Additional support for the WMC 2026 Women’s Media Awards includes the Cristensen Fund, Ford Foundation, the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Rockefeller Family Fund, Abigail Disney & Jenny Warburg. Founded by Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan & Gloria Steinem the Women’s Media Center (WMC) is a feminist organization that works for gender & racial inclusion, representation & equality in media. The WMC mission is to make diverse women visible & powerful in the media. 
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Human Rights Campaign NYC Gala

HRC honored actress Jane Krakowski, fashion designer Daniella Kallmeyer & advocate Juli Grey-Owens at their annual gala event at New York Marriott Marquis in NYC February 7th. Jane Krakowski received HRC’s Ally for Equality Award, Daniella Kallmeyer was honored with HRC’s Visibility award & Juli Grey-Owens was honored with HRC’s Community Impact award. Kelley Robinson HRC President stated, “I believe this with everything in me: If we stand together, if we fight together, one day soon we will know more joy than grief. Our children will feel just as safe surrounded by the American flag as they do when surrounded by Pride flags. That one day our children won’t just dream about the promise of freedom–they will have it. The question is not whether or not we can win. The question is what are we willing to do. Are you willing to choose hope, to choose love, to choose courage, to choose joy.” Chuck Schumer U.S. Senate Minority Leader added, “America's march towards equality suffered a major setback in the last presidential election. We are reaping the ugly consequences, but I believe the tide has turned & let me just say, I believe, just as I believed a year ago when I was here, that if we keep the faith, if we remain alert & vigilant against the forces of bigotry, if we tap into the power of our numbers, then we can beat back this administration's equal agenda.” Journalist Don Lemon who made a surprise appearance concluded, “Tonight feels less like a gala & more like a gathering. A gathering of people who still believe that truth matters. That dignity is not optional. That freedom is not guaranteed.” 
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Broadway's "Some Like It Hot" In Boston

The national touring company’s fabulous production of “Some Like It Hot” is not to be missed currently playing at the Citizens Opera House in Boston for just 5 more performances now through February 8th. In these challenging times this is one of the most energizing theatre experiences for your heart & mind to regenerate especially in the deep freeze of winter. The cast is sensational presenting an over-the-top production of this winner of 4 Tony Awards. “Some Like It Hot” really delivers “A Super-Sized & All-Out Song-And-Dance Spectacular!” Set in Chicago in 1933 when prohibition has everyone thirsty for a little excitement it's the story about two male musicians forced to flee the Windy City after witnessing a mob hit. With gangsters hot on their heels they catch a gender bender opportunity to join an all-female band that takes them on a cross-country train ride for a life-chasing & life-changing trip of a lifetime. The touring cast brings immense energy to the show performing the songs by Marc Shaiman with lyrics by Scott Wittman & Shaiman. The show also delivers jaw-dropping tap-dancing performances including a spectacular tap number finale. Since the Boston Opera House originally opened in 1928 & “Some Like It Hot” takes place in 1933 the Art Deco set design is beautifully complimentary with exquisite costumes & stage craft. As you know “Some Like It Hot” is based on the 1959 film directed by Billy Wilder starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis & Jack Lemmon. This current production presents a more updated storyline but really reflects the genius of this breakthrough masterpiece. Limited tickets are still available for the remaining final performances this weekend. 
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New Bradbury Sullivan Health Survey

In partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Health the Bradbury Sullivan Community Center is launching their 5th Pennsylvania LGBTQ Health Survey at an event on February 5th in Allentown, PA from 5P to 6:30P. The Bradbury-Sullivan Center is leading a coalition of LGBTQ orgs across the state collecting data. The Health Survey assesses the state of health for the LGBTQ population across the state looking at issues such as tobacco use, access to affirming & affordable healthcare, vaccinations & preventative care, gender-affirming care & mental health issues. This data is then used by LGBTQ centers across the state to design programming & apply for grants. The data is also used by legislators & advocates to work on getting more inclusive policies passed. Chrystina Obleschuk, Director of Programs at Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center stated, “We are hoping to have 5,000 respondents to the survey in 2026. It is more important than ever that the voices & needs of our community are not erased.” The Health Survey goal is to collect data from a large & diverse group of LGBTQ Pennsylvanians. In 2024 data was collected from over 3,300 respondents from 65 out of the 67 counties in Pennsylvania. Any LGBTQ Pennsylvanian age 13+ is eligible to take the survey which is offered in both English & Spanish. Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center creates a vibrant LGBTQ community in Pennsylvania through arts, health, youth, training & Pride programs. I talked to Chrystina Obleschuk about what she hoped to accomplish with Bradbury-Sullivan Health Summit last year & her spin on our LGBTQ issues. LISTEN  
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Fort Lauderdale Film Festival 40th Year

The Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) is celebrating 40 years & takes place from Friday February 20th to Saturday February 28th showcasing a fabulous lineup of over 50 films & documentaries. This year’s festival will feature world premieres & U.S. premieres offering a wide array of parties & receptions, special presentations, film features, documentaries & short films. Attendees can look forward to red carpet appearances by directors, producers, actors & special guests who will participate in Q&A discussions & mingle with festival-goers. Actors attending throughout the festival include “Miami Nights” cast Terrence Howard, Jeremy Piven, Jeremy Sumpter, Danay Garcia & Sydelle Noel, Chevy Chase, “I’m Chevy Chase & You’re Not”, Paul Riser, “The Problem with People”, Guy Harvey with “Guy Harvey, The Documentary & Jamie Kennedy’s “Wingman”. Also attending are Will Yun Lee, Brooklyn Prince & Jon Huertas from “California Scenario” along with filmmakers from around the world. Lisa Grigorian FLIFF President & CEO stated, “We are thrilled to present the 40th year of the festival with a diverse line up for all of South Florida. The festival includes ‘something for everyone’ & will also host a series of curated events throughout the week.” Since 1986 the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) reels out more than 60 American Indie & international films during its annual film festival held each February. During the festival, celebrity & filmmaker guests from around the world create an aura of excitement as they arrive at their red carpet premieres, attend over-the-top parties & greet movie-goers. The 40th Annual FLIFF takes place February 20th to 28th at venues throughout Broward County. 
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Celebrating Black Women Leaders Event

The San Francisco Bay Times 4th annual Black History Month celebration of Black women leaders & allies returns Thursday February 26th at...

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