Pittsburgh Lesbian Correspondents

Protest Planned for Target's Shareholder Mtg in Pittsburgh

Sue — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 11:53:57 -0400

Target is holding a shareholder meeting here in Pittsburgh on Wednesday, June 8, 2011. This is the first such meeting since the corporation donated $150,000 to support an anti-gay candidate in their election bid.

There was immediate backlash. It is a terrible contradiction to tell us you want our shopping dollars and support us, then try to elect someone who denies us our basic equal rights. More on the donation specifics here. These donations are tricky, but understand that this was from the actual company. Executives within the company also made personal donations (including one from the CEO to Michelle Bachmann) which are troubling, but there's a little more gray when it comes to choices made by employees. The $150,000 donation came from the profits WE generate by shopping at the store, not the salaries of the employees.

Groups have united to plan a protest at the meeting on Wednesday, 12 PM at the new store site in East Liberty (you can't miss it).

Participating organizations include: Keystone Progress, Common Cause, Action United, Delta Foundation, We Are One Pennsylvania.

So why does this matter? Here's the perspective from Common Cause

As a giant retailer, Target is more susceptible to customer feedback, especially in an environment where sales have been slumping. The shareholder meeting is an opportunity to send a message that when companies try to buy our elected officials to do their bidding, we the people will be watching. The protest is the beginning of a national effort to urge corporations to stop spending their profits to influence our elections. This spending distorts our public policy to only benefit a select few. We need to take a stand now before the 2012 elections are completely flooded with corporate money.

The LGBTQ community should take heed of this. It is not a coincidence that they chose to support Tom Emmer, a State Rep running for Governor of Minnesota. It was a calculated decision that probably had to do with business, but conveniently overlooked Emmer's strong stance against marriage equality, LGBTQ parentings, and his affiliation with an "incendiary" Christian group. This man was much more Darryl Metcalfe than Tom Corbett if I can make so bold a continuum.

If you work in the East End or can get away for a bit mid-day, please make an effort to head to East Liberty and send a message. Let them know you are paying attention. We can't stop corporations from making huge financial donations to the 2012 elections. Do you want Target funding anti-equality candidates in Western Pennsylvania?

My post on personal choices around boycotting Target and other companies ... another time. It is constructive to know we can participate without the interminable inner struggle about where we spend our dollars. So let's take advantage of this opportunity, queer Pittsburgh, and send a message. We are paying attention.

Easton, PA Extends Domestic Partner Benefits

Sue — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:11:46 -0400

I'm a little behind the curve, but kudos to Easton, Pennsylvania for doing what Allegheny County leadership won't by extending domestic partner benefits to your employees. Yes, I mention Allegheny County because I was genuinely shocked to read that only 5 municipalities across Pennsylvania have addressed this equal rights issue, especially given how many private sector employers offer these as a matter of routine. Allegheny County is woefully behind the ball with regard to the economic development indicator.

We should note that the Commonwealth provides domestic partner benefits. Truth be told, this is only half the battle. If the climate isn't LGBTQ-friendly in the workplace, people aren't going to out themselves to access these benefits. Another somewhat shocking fact is that not every public employee union affiliated with the City of Pittsburgh has added domestic partner benefits to their contracts. More than fifteen years after the City first offered them. What the heck is going on in those labor halls that they either don't have LGBTQ members OR those who are there aren't being taken care of? That's a black mark on labor.

It is imperative that we continue to work for employees paid with our tax dollars to access health insurance and other benefits for their families. That's a given in my book. However, we must also continue to push for LGBTQ-friendly ordinances -- and the statewide ordinance -- to provide workplace protections. The two go hand in hand.

I don't have a link, so I'll publish the press release in its entirety courtesy of the PA Diversity Network. One thing I did find on their website is a running list of LGBTQ municipal legislation. That's worth a read.

May 25th, 2011, Easton, PA — A standing ovation concluded the vote of Easton City Council tonight as they unanimously endorsed legislation providing equal benefits to same sex partners of City staff. The ordinance, only the 5th in Pennsylvania, was sponsored by Councilperson Mike Fleck. Not one member of the public spoke against the ordinance. The ordinance will take effect on January 1st, and will join Allentown, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia in providing same-sex benefits.

Pennsylvania Diversity Network’s Adrian Shanker and Liz Bradbury worked with Fleck for a year and half to prepare the legislation and garner support. Shanker stated, “I am so pleased by the unanimous and bipartisan support for relationship recognition for same sex couples in Easton. Easton now joins the vast majority of Fortune 500 companies in providing the best HR policies for their employees.”

Bradbury, who also worked in 2002 to pass Easton’s non-discrimination law, commented, “Easton has come a long way, and I am thrilled that I can recommend it as a progressive place to live or work for the LGBT community.”

Fleck introduced this ordinance because “[he] was elected to represent all the citizens of the West Ward, many of whom are LGBT and want to know that their City treats their community as equals.” The City of Easton is one of the few in the Commonwealth of PA that has an openly gay elected official, City Councilmember El Warner. Warner commented, “I am very proud of my colleagues on Council for coming together to pass this important Civil Rights bill. The time for it is now.” The legislation was strongly supported by Mayor Sal Panto.

Mayor Panto has scheduled a public ceremony to sign the legislation on June 6th at 12:30pm in Centre Square, Easton. Rain location is City Hall. Meanwhile, the neighboring City of Bethlehem, has scheduled a final vote on the proposed non-discrimination law on June 7th.

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Anti-Discrimination Ordinance in Bethlehem Controversial on All Fronts

Sue — Tue, 24 May 2011 13:48:44 -0400

Bethlehem gave preliminary approval to the establishment of a local Human Relations Commission and the inclusion of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression as protected classes. A final vote is set for June.

Not so fast.

Steadfast sponsors of the bill voted against it as amended because it would have no investigatory powers (???) and allow for very sweeping exemptions based on religion.

Sigh.

This is why we need to work dilgently to amend the statewide HRC to include these classes and close up these idiotic loopholes for bigotry. Loopholes for bigotry sounds like a comedy sketch band name, doesn't it?

h/t patch.com

Tennessee rolls back LGBTQ protections with implications for corporate America

Sue — Tue, 24 May 2011 12:04:02 -0400

Yesterday, Tenneessee Governor Bill Haslam signed into law a bill that prohibits TN municipalities from having stronger anti-discrimination laws than are in place statewide. This means Nashville's provisions including sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression as protected classes are invalid. No new laws can be passed unless on a statewide level.

Controversy has erupted in the corporate community as LGBTQ organizations respond to the TN Chamber of Commerce decision to support the legislation. Well, to be fair, when it was too late to actually stop the legislation, the Chamber changed its mind. Many of the coporations represented on the Chamber Board have been commended for their inclusive and anti-discriminination policies. Garden State Equality has rescinded planned honors for AT&T, Pfizer and KPMG which would have been awarded at their upcoming June 25 Legends dinner.

"AT&T, KPMG and Pfizer don’t have to remind us that their internal workplace policies are outstanding or that they have received several awards for corporate equality and diversity. That’s why we had voted to honor them, ” said Steven Goldstein, Chair of Garden State Equality. “And their LGBT employee groups are fantastic. But notwithstanding a company's internal policies, no company on a Board of Directors fighting against LGBT civil rights merits honors from Garden State Equality or any other pro-equality organization.

"Let our message resound everywhere,” Goldstein said. “You cannot separate workplace policies from greater social responsibility, for laws that cover workplace discrimination directly affect treatment in the company workplace. You cannot boast about being a great company for LGBT equality on 29 days a month, but then work against LGBT equality on the 30^th day and expect our appreciation. Equality is an everyday value."

This is serious stuff. Imagine if this where to take hold of some Pennsylvania minds? Rolling back hard fought anti-discrimination ordinances across Pennsylvania would be devastating. We have 20 municipalities that have addressed discrimination in their communities; Tennessee had one (Nashville). I'm not sure how viable it would be to undo the work of 20 municipalities. But it bears a moment's pause.

It has been intriuguing, though, how the LGBTQ community has been working within the corporate community to hold them accountable for walking the walk. You can still chime in on this issue. Americablog Gay has a list of Facebook and Twitter accounts of corporations involved in this decision where you can share your thoughts. It is interesting to see people diligently post comments in unrelated threads as the corporations try to tighten up controls on their FB walls.

Here's another post on how the companies responded after their complicity was exposed to the light of day (not necessarily when they were first made aware of the legislation, mind you). Blue Cross didn't do such a stellar job of responding. ALCOA stepped up.

When you think about a little story about Chick-Fil-A donating a few sandwiches and a few months later, corporate honors are being rescinded because of social advocacy failures ... you might wonder where the future of corporate accountability might take us.

h/t Americablog

How the Pennsylvania Family Institute plans to "ignite" change in Pennsylvania

Sue — Mon, 09 May 2011 15:28:04 -0400

Over the past few days, bloggers have taken note of a piece by Andy Birkey in The American Independent describing a carefully planned campaign by "Family Policy Councils" in now Republican controlled states. Essentially, an infusion of cash from an unidentified source will fund a three prong approach:

Each family policy council has a three-prong plan to achieve their legislative goals over the next two years: lobbying for legislation, mobilizing pastors and social conservatives and supporting candidates that have backed their initiatives. Each group has used a stock brochure containing nearly identical wording to explain their plan and to solicit funds. In many cases, an Ignite plan was launched with an anonymous matching-grant donor.

Here in Pennsylvania, the policy council is part of the Pennsylvania Family Institute founded in 1989 and is affiliated with the national Focus on the Family organization. The mission of PFI

The Mission of the Pennsylvania Family Institute is to strengthen families by restoring to public life the traditional, foundational principles and values essential for the well-being of society. We are a research and education organization devoted to restoring these values to our state and nation. We produce policy reports, promote responsible citizenship and work to promote unity among pro-family groups.

Birkey claims

Focus on the Family says that while the groups are “fully associated” with FoF, they “are independent entities with no corporate or financial relationship to each other or to Focus on the Family.”

This quasi-relationship issue is nothing new to PFI which made headlines earlier in the year by partnering with Chick-Fil-A to sponsor a marriage workshop in Central PA, a workshop that fits smack into the larger context of the IGNITE plan. While Chick-Fil-A denied formal affiliations with anti-marriage groups, the blog Good As You found close ties between the company's philanthropic wing and organizations such as the National Organizations for Marriage.

Chick-Fil-A corporate has tried to parse the situation so as to create a wall between their investment of "marriage strengthening resources" and their desire to sell you a chicken sandwich without judgment. It is artifice at its most dangerous because most people still think they were simply donating a few chicken sandwiches to a local church event.

My suspicions were raised when PFI announced that their annual dinner would take place in Cranberry Township, an affluent suburb about 40 minutes north of Pittsburgh. Cranberry is home to Pennsylvania State Representative Darryl Metcalfe, a tea partish uber-conservative with a long history of anti-gay initiatives. Metcalfe is also chair of the powerful State Government Committee and recently introduced legislation to pass a Marriage Amendment in PA. The most recent attempts to write bigotry into our Constitution were rebuffed (2008 and 2010) at the committee level. Metcalfe's current's chairmanship coupled with a newly elected Republican Governor and shifts in the composition of the Legislature make this battle more threatening.

Things just seem a little too cosy.

Getting back to Ignite, PFI's annual operating budget averages $1.4 million yet they plan to spend $1.5 million over the next 18 months. In December 2010, they announced a matching pledge drive to raise $7500 which Birkey says was successful, but the source of the matching funds remains anonymous. Coupled with similar grants around the country, the numbers start to really add up. Where is this money coming from? These groups aren't saving that much by scraping up chicken sandwich donations, my friends.

The plan itself is somewhat uniform.

Each family policy council has a three-prong plan to achieve their legislative goals over the next two years: lobbying for legislation, mobilizing pastors and social conservatives and supporting candidates that have backed their initiatives

Here's a little more detailed glimpse into what PFI has in mind . (Click on image for larger view)

Full brochure is attached below.

Plans include marriage seminars, supporting legislators that promote their agendas and concerted focus on choice and the marriage amendment.

PFI has launched the marriage workshops, invited anti-choice darling Lila Rose to be their keynote speaker, hosted a large event in Metcalfe's backyard and got a seed grant of $7500 from an anonymous source. There's a plan at work here and one that potentially involves the investment of millions. The plan is in motion and the Marriage Amendment is just one strand.

There's a pattern amidst these threads ... Metcalfe, Cranberry, Chick-Fil-A, Winshape Foundation (Chick-Fil-A foundation), the Cathy family which owns Chick-Fil-A. Is the Winshape Foundation and their larger partners behind the donations? Is Metcalfe one of the "statesmen" PFI lauds in their brochure?

I hope progressives continue to dig. Chick-Fil-A went on a PR frenzy to convince you to keep buying chicken sandwiches and milkshakes and waffle fries. If there's more to that particular relationship, we need to know.

The money came from somewhere and isn't limited to Pennsylvania. Birkey's piece details goings on in South Dakota, West Virginia, Indiana, Louisiana, Arizona and Florida.

The source of these anonymous seed grants matters, but the bigger issue is the fact that our opponents are in the trenches and they are well funded on multiple fronts. The current PFI blog posts focus on school choice and abortion. These are hot topics in the Corbett Administration.

It also illustrates the need to build coalitions and pool our resources. When I read that PFI plans to target half a million on three issues, one of which is the marriage amendment, I believe we need to broaden the scope of our own individual agendas. Destroying the public school system, for example, will not be good for children in LGBTQ families and/or children who identify as LGBTQ.

Please continue to pay attention. Elections are right around the corner and you can make an impact by electing (or retaining) progressive women and men. We need to support the attacks on labor, public education, health care, reproductive justice as vigilantly as we defend our community. Finally, we need to pay attention to the well-laid plans of those who would deny us our freedom and liberties.

Good Legislative Stuff Happens in PA, too

Sue — Fri, 06 May 2011 14:37:30 -0400

It is hard to keep up with the good stuff, but I'm sure you want to know about it ....

Anti-Discrimination

HB 300 sponsored by Representative Dan Frankel

SB 910 sponsored by Senator Lawrence Farnese

These bills will expand the Human Relations Act to include sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression as protected classes.

Hate Crimes

HB 1372 sponsored by Representative Josh Shapiro

SB 586 sponsored by Senator Jim Ferlo

These bills will expand hate crime definitions and protections based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression.

Anti-Bullying

SB 191 sponsored by Senator LeAnne Washington

Sexual Education

HB 416 sponsored by Representative Chelsa Wagner

Civil Unions

HB 708 sponsored by Rep Mark Cohen

Marriage Equality

SB 461 sponsored by Senator Daylin Leach

Blog for Equality Pgh 2011 - Tuesday May 10, 2011

Sue — Wed, 04 May 2011 21:06:14 -0400

(scroll down for links to the 2011 Blog for Equality participating blogs)

When it comes to LGBTQ equality blogswarms in Pgh, we've had good company back in 2008 and 2010.

I'm sad that we need to rally the troops once again to stand up against yet another attempt to amend the Pennsylvania Constitution in order to "protect marriage." Sigh. But I'm happy the troops are there to be rallied.

Here's how it works

- Your post should be up before or on Tuesday, May 10, 2011

- Any blogger can participate.

- Write a blog post on any angle of the issue that you like (or don't like). Length is not important.

- Contact me (email, twitter, facebook) with a link so we can track participation.

- Spread the word to other bloggers who might want to chime in.

In my recent half dozen posts, you'll find more details including the 5 Western PA legislators serving on the relevant committee alongside the legislation's sponsor and committee chair, Daryl Metcalfe - R, Cranberry. Let me know if you need more details.

- This is the Equality Pennsylvania petition to which you may want to direct your readers.

- This is the link to the actual bill should you find that helpful.

That's it! Once your post is up, please use your social media tools to spread the word. I can attest that these "swarms" are read over and over and over again throughout the year. Together we can send a message to Pennsylvania that the lives of LGBTQ persons are not political fodder.

Thanks to Maria at 2 Political Junkies for logo design.

FWIW, there are four separate pieces of legislation that are LGBTQ+ on hate crimes, civil unions, marriage equality and civil rights protections. I am looking forward to sprinkling some of that goodness into the conversation.

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2011 Participants **New contributors for 2011

Einstein's Desk ** Blog for Equality Day

Angels of Sodom ** Blog for Equality '11

2 Political Junkies - Dayvoe Blog for Equality Day

2 Political Junkies - Maria Signs of Spring in PA

The Pittsburgh Comet Trib is Succinct, Eloquent on Topic of Liberty

Burgh Baby ** An Equal Opportunity to Suck Face

topherhoff ** Blog for Equality Day 2011 - Pittsburgh

intense chaos ** Blog for Equality

Thomas C. Waters ** LGBT Equality in PA: Far from a reality

Examiner.com (A.J. Mayowski)** Equality and the Killer

Six Kitties (Ledcat) Blog for Equality Day 2011

A Spork in the Drawer The Thing Is, They're Losing and They Know It

After the Bridge Blog for Equality Day

PGH is a City Blog for Equality Redux

Three Rivers Anthology ** Blog for Equality Day

Amadi Talks Blog for Equality Pittsburgh 2011: Here We Go Again

Ms. Mon's Salon A Reminder That We Are All Created Equal

Deal Snob Pittsburgh Blog for Equality Day May 10, 2011 (Blog for Fairness)

The Radical Middle In Honor of Blog For Equality Day

Here's What I Have To Say ** Blog for Marriage Equality Day

The Narrative in the Blog sent in this submission a little late, but very welcomed! Blog for Equality Day 2011

Diane Gramley and the AFA of PA weigh in on "marriage amendment"

Sue — Wed, 04 May 2011 11:23:23 -0400

They have a fancy new website which makes it easier for me to find the press releases since they keep kicking me off their email lists ...

On HB 1434

“Representative Metcalfe understands the need to do more than simply protect the word ‘marriage.’ A strong two-part amendment is what is needed to preserve the institution of marriage. In 2004 Oregon passed an amendment that simply defined marriage as between one man and one woman and four years later marriage-like benefits were extended to homosexual couples. Their amendment only preserved the word, not the institution of marriage,” stated Diane Gramley, President of the AFA of PA.

The word "marriage" is the issue. Marriage a legal term used to describe a civil institution. I want access to that institution. I don't give a hoot about the religious constructs of marriage. But there's no way to parse the word and people who think we can magically come up with a solution which satisfies everyone are thinking desperately. No one is coming to take over the church ceremonies. Relax and save your hysteria for the natural gas companies where it is well deserved.

Setting aside the other LGBT legislation, I just shake my head that so many issues will go unaddressed while elected officials rally around this. I'm sure it will be the toast of Cranberry Township tomorrow night when Metcalfe, the Pennsylvania Family Institute and rightwing darling Lila Rose will be gathering for the PFI Annual Dinner. I wish I had ability to infiltrate. With a Flip Cam.

sdf

More on Marriage Amendment

Sue — Wed, 04 May 2011 10:49:32 -0400

UPDATE: I didn't dig deep enough when I originally posted. Western PA Reps Krieger and Mustio also cosponsor this legislation. My apologies.

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Metcalfe's plan to amend the Pennsylvania Constitution begins in the State Government Committee of which he is the Majority Chair. As Chair, he has the power to bring the amendment to a committee vote. It would be best to squelch that and you can help by contacting the other members of the committee.

The message is very clear. There are many more important issues than this and we need our elected officials to focus their time and energy on them -- the economy, transportation, taxes, health care, the environment, etc.

Note that there are several Southwestern PA committe members. It is not too early to galvanize your networks to make the calls and make it personal -- people in our neighborhoods need jobs, healthcare, focus on energy issues, education, etc. The links will take you to the reps contact page - phone, email, webforms, etc. Just a few clicks if you live in Moon or Penn Township and you can help put this divisive issue aside to focus on your family priorities.

Republicans

Seth Grove - York County

Jim Cox - Berks County

Matt Gabler - Clearfield and Elks Counties

Linda Schlegel Culver - Northumberland and Snyder Counties

George Dunbar - Westmoreland County (Jeannette, North Huntington, Penn Twp, Irwin, North Irwin, Penn)

Eli Evankovich - Armstrong and Westmoreland Counties (New Kensington, Penn Township, Murrysville, Upper Burrell, Lower Burrell, Allegheny Township, Arnold, Export, Bethel Township, Cadogan Township, Parks Township, and Gilpin Township)

Glen Grell - Cumberland County

Marcia Hahn - Northampton County

Rob Kauffman - Cumberland and Franklin Counties

Jerry Knowles - Berks and Schuykill Counties

Timothy Krieger - Westmoreland County (Greensburg, Hempfield Twp, Delmont Borough, Hunker Borough, New Stanton Borough, Salem Township, South Greensburg Borough, Southwest Greensburg Borough. Unity Twp, Youngwood Borough) **COSPONSOR**

T. Mark Mustio - Allegheny County (Aleppo Twp, Ben Avon Heights, Collier Twp, Edgeworth, Findlay Twp, Haysville, Kilbuck Twp, Moon Twp, North Fayette Twp, Ohio Twp, Osborne, Robinson Twp, Sewickley, Sewickley Heights, Sewickley Hills) **COSPONSOR**

Brad Roae - Crawford County

Jerry Stern - Blair County

Democrats

Babette Josephs (Minority Chair) - Philadelphia County

Tony Payton, Jr. - Philadelphia County

Steve Samuelson - Lehigh and Northhampton Counties

Greg Vitali - Delaware County

Tim Briggs - Montgomery County

Eugene DePasquale - Montgomery County

Florindo FaBrizio - Erie County

Kenyatta Johnson - Philadelphia County

Eddie Day Pashinski - Lucerne County

Steven Santarsierio - Bucks County

Metcalfe introduces "Marriage Protection" constitutional amendment

Sue — Wed, 04 May 2011 09:40:49 -0400

From the Trib ...

Metcalfe, R-Cranberry, who chairs the House State Government Committee, on Monday announced he is sponsoring a constitutional amendment to define marriage. It would need to be approved in two successive sessions of the Legislature and would then be submitted for approval or rejection by the state's voters. The earliest that could happen would be 2013.

The constitution, if changed, would read: "Marriage is the legal union of only one man and one woman as husband and wife and no other legal union that is treated as marriage or the substantial equivalent thereof shall be valid or recognized."

The bill's chances are improved in a Republican-controlled legislature, but it is still a contentious issue many lawmakers would rather avoid. As committee chairman, Metcalfe can at least guarantee a committee vote.

It is a bit challenging to come up with someonething new about this one other than quiet disgust. John Morgan at The Pennsylvania Progressive plans to out closeted legislators who cast any affirmative vote on this one.

While we can hope this illustrates the distance between Metcalfe and the "rest" of the Republicans, I suspect this will not go quietly into the good night. Democrats have voted for this in previous terms so we can take nothing for granted.

Please take a moment to sign the petition up at Equality Pennsylvania's site.

The death of Bin Laden -- queer persectives

Sue — Mon, 02 May 2011 10:52:44 -0400

I watched the media coverage and Presidential press conference last night with a strange mix of relief and sadness. I can't rejoice in someone's death, but I am hopeful that his death will lead to a better world for all of us.

From Pam's House Blend ...

Is this the final proof that Barack Obama is the legitimate President of the United States?

Pam herself posts extensive media clips with a little sober commentary of her own and the transcript of the Presidential remarks.

And tonight, let us think back to the sense of unity that prevailed on 9/11. I know that it has, at times, frayed. Yet today's achievement is a testament to the greatness of our country and the determination of the American people.
The cause of securing our country is not complete. But tonight, we are once again reminded that America can do whatever we set our mind to. That is the story of our history, whether it's the pursuit of prosperity for our people, or the struggle for equality for all our citizens; our commitment to stand up for our values abroad, and our sacrifices to make the world a safer place.
Let us remember that we can do these things not just because of wealth or power, but because of who we are: one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Thank you. May God bless you. And may God bless the United States of America.

Towleroad has clips of the spontaneous rally at the White House last night.

Politgot from Metro Weekly has similar clips with much more detail and on the ground interviews.

Thoughts from Bilerico

And from The Advocate a hat tip to President Bush

The president reiterated that this war is, in no way, a war with Islam, and that bin Laden was not a religious leader, describing him as a mass murderer, and that his victims included many Muslims. The President continued, "So his demise should be welcomed by all who believe in peace and human dignity."

"Tonight we are once again reminded that American can do whatever we set out mind to," the President continued. "That is the story of our history, whether it’s the pursuit of prosperity for our people, or the struggle for equality for all our citizens, our commitment to stand up for our values abroad, and our sacrifices to make the word a safer place. Let us remember that we can do these things not just because of wealth or power but because of who we are, one nation, under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

Authorities have been searching for the terrorist leader since the September 1, 2001, attacks. Capturing or killing Osama bin Laden fulfills a goal first set by President George W. Bush.

Finally a few reminders of the losses to the LGBTQ community from LezGetReal.

So what does all this mean? A simple reminder that while these are LGBTQ media outlets, they do step outside of the "gay agenda" to report. Clearly, this is a significant moment in American history, including the LGBTQ community. I'm not seeing references to "agenda items" like the repeal of DADT or the repeal of DOMA to provide family benefits to LGBTQ soldiers. I'm reading good reporting and interesting commentary on an event that transcends our identity as gay Americans. But those are valid issues to raise in the coming days and returning to our struggle for full equality in our nation, a nation a little more secure, is one of the things that does make America great.

Frankel reintroduces anti-discrimination legislation

Sue — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:21:21 -0400

From PG coverage of today's press conference ...

Frankel has proposed legislation that would outlaw discrimination in employment, housing, credit and public accommodations such as hotels, restaurants and public bathrooms. Several counties and municipalities -- including Allegheny, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Harrisburg -- already have local anti-discrimination ordinances, but Mr. Frankel said it's time protections are offered statewide.

The majority of Pennsylvanians support his effort, according to poll data released this morning by Equality Pennsylvania.

Statewide, 69 percent support legislation banning discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the work place, public housing and public accommodations, according to the poll. Meanwhile, 24 percent oppose such legislation, 6 percent are undecided and 1 percent refused to answer.

Susquehanna Polling and Research surveyed 1,200 registered voters in February. The margin of error is plus or minus 3.58 percentage points.

"Those who oppose this legislation are on the wrong side of public opinion and on the wrong side of history," Mr. Frankel said.

First, he has to get past Darryl Metcalfe and the State Government Committee.

"This is a long haul, and it shouldn't be," Mr. Frankel said. "But it's our responsibility to continue to advocate."

sdf

Frankel reintroduces anti-discrimination legislation

Sue — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 18:54:08 -0400

From PG coverage of today's press conference ...

Frankel has proposed legislation that would outlaw discrimination in employment, housing, credit and public accommodations such as hotels, restaurants and public bathrooms. Several counties and municipalities -- including Allegheny, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Harrisburg -- already have local anti-discrimination ordinances, but Mr. Frankel said it's time protections are offered statewide.

The majority of Pennsylvanians support his effort, according to poll data released this morning by Equality Pennsylvania.

Statewide, 69 percent support legislation banning discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the work place, public housing and public accommodations, according to the poll. Meanwhile, 24 percent oppose such legislation, 6 percent are undecided and 1 percent refused to answer.

Susquehanna Polling and Research surveyed 1,200 registered voters in February. The margin of error is plus or minus 3.58 percentage points.

"Those who oppose this legislation are on the wrong side of public opinion and on the wrong side of history," Mr. Frankel said.

First, he has to get past Darryl Metcalfe and the State Government Committee.

"This is a long haul, and it shouldn't be," Mr. Frankel said. "But it's our responsibility to continue to advocate."

sdf

The complexities of police/LGBTQ interactions in Pittsburgh

Sue — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 13:46:36 -0400

Interactions between members of the LGBTQ community and the Pittsburgh Police can be fraught with complexity, whether it be a domestic call or sorting out the potential for what would be classified as a hate crime. Let me state here that crimes based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression are not recognized as hate crimes in Pennsylvania, but they are recognized on a federal level. So for simplicity sake, I am going to use the term hate crime and leave it to another post to sort out the nuances of how a hate crime might be prosecuted under federal law. Legislation for Pennsylvania to include these as protected classes has been introduced. We'll see.

2010 saw two somewhat high profile incidents involving alleged hate crimes against members of the LGBTQ community. I say alleged with intent, b/c the ensuing complex police relationship leaves us with very few answers.

Now my understanding is that the number of documented and/or reported hate crimes against the LGBTQ community is very small. The question at hand is whether the low numbers are due to a reluctance to report, a lack of diligence on the part of the Pgh Police or the simple fact that the crimes are not happening.

The reluctance to report and the sensitivity of the Pittsburgh Police are intimately tied together. For any given situation, the nuances are really tough. Did the Police intentionally not show up for the Dyke March for four years or was it miscommunication? Did the lack of follow through filing a complaints with the CPRB or OMI reinforce the perspective that it wasn't worth their time? Where did the accountability begin and end? From my point of view, the police response during the 2010 Dyke March was perfectly appropriate, but there's a little inkling in the back of my head wondering if I hadn't kicked up such a damn fuss about it ... I guess we'll see this year if they get the same support without a pghlesbian fuss. On their own merits as citizens exercising their right to assemble and speak freely.

Therein lies the crux of the issue -- how are we mutually accountable with the police officers, supervisors and City leaders to ensure our community is well-protected and served by the police force?

In 2010, there was an incident in Bloomfield late in the evening in which it was alleged that several members of our community were assaulted. The incident generated outrage and a very large impromptu vigil. To my knowledge, it did not generate a police report. Ensuing conflicting reports on what actually transpired only served to reinforce the existing divide between the "gay" community and the queer community, a fact evident by who showed up with a bull horn and who actually used it. It also troubled elected officials who do not have relationships with individuals often most vulnerable to these types of crimes and least likely to attend meeting in the Mayor's conference room. Thus, the onus is on the "gay" community to forge those connections and represent.

Later in the summer, a bicyclist was assaulted near the East Liberty/Stanton Heights area of the City. This was a little different situation. There were other similar assaults being reported. The police were not on the scene quickly so the victim sought medical attention and tried to file a report after the fact which is a legitimate way to approach. He and supporters voiced concerns that the police were not attunted to the fact that this might be a hate crime separate and apart from the other assaults.

Complicated stuff. It is challenging to file a police report. The offices are not warm and welcoming, but built for efficiency and safety. The police force is less staffed that you might think, putting these types of crimes far down on the priority list once the immediate safety of the victims has been determined. I don't think the LGBTQ community has a clear sense of these realities and that is one serious problem. Filing a police report, whether in the aftermath of a traumatic event or in the forbidding atmostphere of the Zone offices, is not always satisfying. Sometimes the police are going to give unsatisfactory answers, such as referring incidents to magistrates and sometimes people are going to just say "screw it" and the cycle of unreported crimes continues.

This leads to the following that need to be addressed.

Point one - the lack of information about the way the police operate.

Another blogger, Thomas Waters, (click link to read his take on the meeting) asked City Councilman Patrick Dowd to have a conversation about the Stanton Heights/East Liberty (henceforth, Zone 5) incident and perceived insensitivity of the police. Dowd faciliated a meeting including Zone Commander Timothy O'Connor and the responding officer who promptly outed herself to the group. They had a frank discussion about the realities I outlined above. While they did not pursue a hate crime investigation, they did conceive of a plan to explore this issue of police sensitivity more closely.

I met with Dowd over coffee in late April 2011. I had not heard of this initiative to explore the issues of police sensitivity to the LGBTQ community until his campaign manager, Mac Booker, brought it up at the Steel City Stonewall Endorsement meeting. When we met, Dowd seemed surprised that I hadn't heard of this meeting. He was counting on data from the LGBTQ community to drive next steps, which he believes will show that the police ARE appropriately sensitive. He repeatedly emphasized his confidence in the police officers and their supervisors.

He mentioned that the responding officer (I am intentionally witholding name) said the Pgh Police Force was a supportive and good place to work. I don't doubt that's her experience, but I am incredibly skeptical that this is an accurate across the board statement. Simply put, if this were true - there would be more openly LGBTQ police officers. I asked Dowd if he had inquired within the department of personnel as to how many (numbers only, no names) members of the police department had applied for domestic partner benefits. He admitted he hadn't thought of that and we went down a side path discussion about domestic partner benefits in the Department of Public Safety.

Essentially, there are specific officers who are sensitive and do consider "identity" (his word) when investigating a crime. That would hopefully include LGBTQ officers (we know they are there) as well as officers like the cop at the Dyke March who told me about his lesbian daughter. But there's no evidence and without a show of good faith on the part of the police force, there's not going to be more reports made. The barrier is much greater than the atmosphere in the zone buildings.

Point two - the LGBTQ acumen of the Pittsburgh Police Force

The solution is to create "safe havens" for LGBTQ persons to report crimes in the day or days after the incident. For example, the bicyclist could go to Persad a few days later and receive support to have the police send a car to the Persad office to take the report. Persad is in Zone 5.

The eventual goal is to build the relationships necessary to convince the community to go to the Zone and file the reports because they feel affirmed and respected and have a sense of trust that their identity will be appropriately considered.

Dowd is waiting for a year to pass which means in late August of this year, he'll be looking at the data to see how successful this initiative has been. He's very careful to voice support for improving the police-LGBTQ relationship without blaming anyone for the problem, but he's candid enough to say that without reports little can be done. He believes that the data will educate us on how police services are delivered to the LGBTQ community.

So this is a good step for Zone 5, but if you file in Zone 5 for a crime committed in another zone -- there's a time lag as the information has to be passed to the appropriate zone. There's also the issue that it may take a long while the a car to show up depending on other priorities. Finally, the police may not take a report because the issue is more appropriately referred to a Magistrate.

Three areas fraught with complication - going to the wrong place to report your crime, the uncertainty of a response time, and the need to follow through with the Magistrate for documentation purposes. It doesn't make it a "bad" or unworkable plan, just one that requires a lot of good information. It also needs to be considered a model for the other zones, each of which would need to identify a "safe haven" of their own.

Point three - shows of good faith on both sides

That's a good thing because it creates more positive relationships between the police and the LGBTQ community.

I'd propose working with the entire City Council and the Zone Commanders to identify potential safe havens.

Zone 2 - the Gay & Lesbian Community Center

Zone 1 - Allegheny Unitarian Universalist Church

Zone 3 - Councilman Bruce Kraus' satellite office

Zone 4 - Rodef Shalom

Zone 6 - Focus on Renewal (no idea how gay friendly they are)

That's just off the top of my head.

Another issue is that this is a top down issue. The Administration sets the tone for the top brass and it trickles down. It should gush down, but let's be realistic about change if change is warranted.

I'd propose that Chief Harper send a high ranking member of his command force to speak at PrideFest. Someone who is already trusted like Rashelle Brackney, Commander of Zone 1 or Thomas Stangrecki, Commander of Major Crimes. Not a PR person. A leader who can make solid commitments on behalf of their own teams.

I also think the police should set up a booth at PrideFest. That's where the PR people belong -- explaining the procedures for filing reports, the way 911 prioritizes calls, the lack of units on the streets each shift (maybe they won't say that), and most importantly of all -- listening to what the community has to say and taking that information back to Chief Harper. And Patrick Dowd who got this ball rolling.

I dare say they should participate in the march, but let's start with basics. Pridefest is the best way to reach thousands of LGBTQ persons, from the affluent white gay men to the mostly closeted working class queer identified folks. That's where the police can show good faith on their part - stand on the stage and set up a booth.

Dowd made another insightful point. If, as he believes, the police are providing sensitive responses to crimes involving the LGBTQ community, leaders on both sides should be cultivating that organic relationship to get Pittsburgh to the point where we have openly gay and lesbian officers who are involved in recruitment.

He's ambitious, eh? :-)

Dowd believes all officers should be liaisons, but I disagree a bit. After Pridefest is over and things get back to day to day, it would send another show of good faith to the community if Chief Harper appointed an official liaison to the community -- someone from his team. This would permit leaders in our community to go right to the top when there's a situation to be addressed. This would also create open lines of communication between all leaders as to what tools need to be utilized -- CPRB, OMI, reports, magistrates, etc.

I do think boiling this down to the first step is a smart move on Dowd's part. He's an academic and he knows the value of hard data. If we can't convince people to file reports, we are heading nowhere. I think his "safe haven" approach has merit and I'll be interested to see the results this fall. Let's be precise though. He's collecting data on how crimes are reported and hopes to demonstrate the police are sensitive to LGBTQ identity. It gets a little sticky when you try to define a hate crime since there is no legal definition for the police force to use. It also gets a little sticky when someone uses the safe haven approach to report a crime that is not identity related because they feel safer doing so. Further complicating the issue are situations where the alleged perpetrator is also LGBTQ.

My personal opinion is that the police force is not necessarily LGBTQ friendly. I supect your average police officer doesn't give a damn about sexual orientation when taking a report because they see horrors every day so a same sex couple reporting a robbery isn't exactly shocking. Does that mean they are respectful and/or sensitive to the potential for a hate crime? No. When you factor in crimes involving the transgender and transexual communities, you add an entire other level of complexity and sensitivity. I suspect "fag" is not an uncommon expletive in the sense of demeaning any man, not just gay men. I suspect openly gay male police officers don't exist and I can count the number of openly lesbian police officers on one hand (and the not openly lesbian police officers on the other). I'd love to see that personnel data (not names, of course).

But I also think that can change. Dowd's conversations are important because it sends a message to the community that City Council cares about these issues. It also is pretty cool to have police officers out themselves in a group setting. And I'm sure the police appreciate Dowd's faith in their sensitivity to these issues.

When I voiced my doubts, he asked me if I could faciliate conversations between openly lesbian police officers and community leaders. Others are attempting to do that so I don't want to step on anyone's toes. I'm up for trying to help. Right after Commander Stangrecki comes to Pridefest.

Where Dowd and I disagree is the point of who moves first in the chess game. It isn't a game, it is an analogy so don't beat me up over it. I think the public servants should show good faith even before this year of data accumulation is completed. I think the people most vulnerable to crime are furthest from the locus of LGBTQ influence and access. Dowd did acknowledge that I'm less likely to be treated poorly by the police because I am educated on what I should expect and (hopefully) would have the presence of mind to demand it when reporting a crime, hate based or otherwise.

There's plenty of room for growth. Check out what DC Liasion Unit is doing. And units around the country here. Tampa had an openly lesbian Chief. (first woman, too). Charlotte NC has formal forums. The opportunity is there.

I'm hoping to have more informationi from Persad on this project. In the meantime, Dowd is up for reelection and kudos to him for taking on a sensitive issue when he would be seeking the endorsement of the FOP and the LGBTQ community. I have no doubt Dowd sincerely believes what he says and I am confident he was reporting accurately from his meetings. I also believe he'll follow up.

And kudos to Thomas Waters for getting the issue of police sensitivity to the LGBTQ community on Dowd's radar. I'll be interested to see where their collaboration will lead next once the year has passed.

Gertrude Stein Club Endorsements

Sue — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 07:48:49 -0400

Good, LGBTQ positive information for the May primary.

The Gertrude Stein Political Club of Greater Pittsburgh supports

the following candidates for the May 17, 2011, primary:

PA Commonwealth Court

Barbara Ernsberger

County Executive

Rich Fitzgerald (D)

County Controller

Valerie McDonald Roberts (D)

Allegheny Co. Council district 7

Nicholas Futules (D)

Allegheny Co. Council district 11

Barbara Daly Danko (D)

Allegheny Co. Court of Common

Pleas (two seats)

Alex Bicket

Eleanor Bush

Pittsburgh City Controller

Michael Lamb (D)

PGH City Council District 1

Darlene Harris (D)

PGH City Council District 3

Bruce Kraus (D)

PGH City Council district 5

Chris Zurawsky (D)

PGH City Council district 7

Patrick Dowd (D)

PGH City Council district 9

Lucille Prater-Holliday (D)

District Judge 5-2-35

Hugh McGough

sdf

Domestic Partner Benefits for Allegheny County - here's what the candidates think

Sue — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 09:09:24 -0400

This is just too good/bad for anything other than a direct quote. The candidates for Chief Executive from both parties were meeting with the Executive Women's Council of Greater Pittsburgh yesterday. Let's set aside whether they were addressing ladies, women or girls. Actually, let's not. What kind of campaigh staff doesn't review this with a candidate who must routinely use antiquated/offensive language or perhaps they simply don't know any women? I don't know. It boggles the mind. I just hope the campaign managers caught it and begin a remedial course in "Women's Advancement in the 20th Century."

I am happy to report that no one came to the gay Democrats endorsement and called us "the gays." Of course, Chuck McCullough wasn't there. He actually seems to believe gays don't exist as you will see ...

From Early Returns ...

When asked if they support same-sex benefits for county employees, Fitzgerald unwaveringly said yes, Raja said he had to study it and Flaherty said he would follow whatever policy Dan Onorato puts in place.

"I don't believe in that concept whatsoever," said McCullough.

<head on table>

Fitzgerald has his own opinion, a record of pro-LGBT action and the Stonewall endorsement. Great answer and glad to see he's going on the record to bring fairness to the County workforce. I'd love to hear how he plans to roll this out, but he clearly shines on this issue.

To be fair, that's not hard to do when you are dealing with the assorted buffoonery that follows.

Flaherty is letting Onorato take the lead on this? WTF does that even mean? In 20 years of public service, Onorato has cast two anti-gay votes out of two opportunities to vote. His sole concession to the gay community was signing a piece of legislation two years ago. We are told repeatedly that he lobbied for the Human Relations Commission, but his stubborn refusal to provide health insurance for his employees makes me wonder if he pulled a fast one on the gay community. It has been two years. That is a lot of doctor's visits, trips to the ER, dental visits and other health situations that have arisen among the LGBT County employees.

If the Emporer is wearing new clothes, he did not have a gay fashion designer. So why is Flaherty saying something so utterly just stupid? It is clear Onorato is not going to cast a gay vote/take gay action (ha) before his next statewide run. And if he is waiting until he's a lame duck ... shame on him for playing politics with people's health. I think that runs against his role of overseeing the Health Department. But getting back to Flaherty ... is he painting himself as a successor and, if so, why on this really small issue? It is a position that hurts gay people --- he sought our endorsement just two weeks ago --- and it hurts the region's ability to attract business.

Raja wants to study the issue. I'm going to send him information. Seriously.   He may be playing coy, but he suggests that he's open to learning more. I don't expect a Republican to make this move because it would cost too much with the base, but still ... the answer made sense.

And McCullough. I mean, what do you say? Let's revisit the quote.

I don't believe in that concept whatsoever," said McCullough.

Does he not believe domestic partner benefits exist? I'd be happy to show him my Highmark insurance card listing Ledcat at the insured and myself as the dependent. Or the bills. Or the additional takes we pay on this "income"

Or does he not believe domestic partners exist? There's an official City registry! We have recognition of our domestic partnership by a municipal government. Plus, he's welcome to come to dinner (don't tell Ledcat I invited him - we'll pretend he dropped by) and see what a domestic partner household looks like.

Does he think we should fund our own health insurance, one little old lady at a time? Cause my domestic-partner-believin' church tells me that is wrong.

The answer lies in an earlier comment ...

He refused to commit to placing any percentage or number of women in leadership roles, instead saying he should be judged on other battles he's fought for UPMC Braddock, against reassessments and the drink tax, and would fight for women too. "I'm here to do God's work . . . I have your back," he said.

I'm sure all the girls in the room felt incredibly reassured.

Dear Virginia

Sue — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 19:07:32 -0400

A few days ago, Ginny Montanez came out as a Republican on her very popular blog, That's Church.

But this Sunday while reading an article about the Port Authority service cuts that went into effect today, I was first shocked to see the 67J was cut, because I assumed that was a pretty profitable and popular route. But I was the most shocked that transit union president Patrick McMahon said this to the media:

“Dan Onorato — union buster,” Mr. McMahon said. “That’s the label you will have whatever else you do in your life. You stink. You’re a Republican.”

The very day I outed myself as Virginia Montanez instead of PittGirl, Chad Hermann at the Radical Middle latched on to this letter to the editor I wrote when George Bush was re-elected, wondering how my readers were going to like me knowing I was a Republican. This resulted in some uproar from readers who were shocked I ever voted for a “war criminal.” Yes. WAR CRIMINAL. I voted for him because as you already know ME LOVE KILLING! GRRRRR.

Nearly 170 comments followed, many of which were very supportive of Ginny. What struck me? How many people were willing to "accept" her Republican lifestyle because she isn't like the rest of them. They liked her in spite of party affiliation.

Say what? Now I do not know Ginny personally, even though we brushed elbows at a fundraiser last summer. I don't always agree with her and I have admittedly cast an envious glance or two at her comment sections.

But here's what I do know. When I asked her to help me raise funds to provide holiday gifts to families experiencing homelessness and/or living with mental illness, she did it. She simply said "How can I help?"with no concern that holiday gifts for 44 year old mentally ill men living in a shelter is not content for a very sexy blog post. It is just real. She helped and there was absolutely no question from her about the worth or value of the cause. She just helped.

Here's what else I know. Republicans are good people. A very dear friend of mine is a conservative Christian fundamentalist. I don't love him in spite of these facts. I love him because he lives the real values, not the hyped-up media portrayed values. I love him because we can agree that people need affordable housing and just disagree on how to create it. I love him because when I called him at 11 PM with an emergency, he was there by 8 AM the next morning and again the next day and the next. He isn't a stereotype to me and he isn't an exception. He reads me something, we argue and then we go have lunch. It is all good. I don't have enough fingers to count the ways he lived up to his values while the rest of us were talking about it.

My Dad is a Catholic Republican who loves George Bush and Rick Santorum. I try to talk with him about issues, but he has none of that talk. He is just glad I ended up with a lawyer, albeit a female, and treats her exactly like he treats my sister-in-law.

My point is that I love my friend and I love my Dad for who they are, not in spite of it. That's what I expect from them, right? No "lifestyle" comments, no "Sue and her friend" comments. My friend actually asks me a lot of questions and thinks my trust in the federal government is more perilous than my sexual orientation.

I write a political blog and I have taken swings at Republicans and probably did the very thing I'm railing about.

When I saw the piece in the Post-Gazette about Ginny, I just stopped what I was doing. She wants good public transportation, so do I. It sure seems like we can write a big list of "things Sue and Ginny agree about" if we tried.

If you told me you liked me in spite of the fact that I'm a lesbian or because I'm not like "those" lesbians, I would take a deep breath and smile while sweetly asking you to explain and just watch you dig yourself in deeper and deeper to show what an unbelievable homophobe you really are. I might punch you, but Ledcat frowns on potential lawsuits.

I like Ginny because she thinks 44 year old men living with mental illness in a shelter deserve a holiday gift just like kids and you and lesbians and George Bush. I think George Bush deserves a holiday gift. Seriously. But remember I'm the lesbian who wants to be an evangelical (remind me to tell you that I might actually be able to pull that off).

Ginny doesn't need me to defend her. But I will say that I learned a lesson about my broad strokes. There is a difference between Republican parties, strategies, tactics, plans and belief systems AND people who are Republican.

One thing I admire about Western PA Republicans is their willingness to be honest. There are a lot of Republicans in Democrat clothing and I find that abhorrent and self-serving the highest degree. But I also find it abhorrent to deny women reproductive healthcare. That's where it gets tough to sort out motives and beliefs and so forth.

It is a murky path we tread, but let's try to be a little more genuine. I have Republican friends, people I love and admire and appreciate. I have to work harder to remind myself that I am swooping them up into stereotypes. Perhaps that's inevitable when you blog politically, but it doesn't feel very good.

Frankly, if I had lunch with Ginny, I'd probably be more concerned about her pigeon-hating than her opinions on unions. I like pigeons. And unions.

And I like Ginny for putting this out there. Good conversations require self-disclosures, both lofty and otherwise.

Fundraiser for Lucille Prater-Holliday

Sue — Sat, 02 Apr 2011 10:50:48 -0400

Saturday, April 9, 2011, my new friend Lucille Prater-Holliday will hold a fundraiser at the Shadow Lounge from 6-8 PM. Tickets are $10.

Lucille is running for City Council in District 9 (East Liberty, Homewood, Point Breeze, Garfield, etc). She is challenging incumbent Rev Ricky Burgress.

Ricky Burgess has repeatedly slapped the LGBT community in the face in SPITE of his former tenure ass a PATF board member. Most recently, Burgess refused to join in the City Council Pride proclamation which is about as tepid support one can offer.  Even more recently, Burgess implied that openly gay councilman Bruce Kraus is a “rich white Republican” who has no idea was it is like to be oppressed. What sort of collegiality is this? What sort of dialogue does that open on meeting the needs of the LGBTQ community in District 9? What kind of stereotype does that put out there about gay people? That’s a sickening cheap shot and serves only to keep LGBT folks in his district deep in the closet.

There are plenty of gay folks in District 9 and Ricky Burgess is hurtin' them all.

This is the District of Hope. Dreams of Hope has performed repeatedly at the Kelly-Strayhorn, Vanessa German opens her newest piece tonight at that same venue. There is hope politically and her name is Lucille Prater-Holliday. She’s a single parent with a strong background on social services. She’s very smart, a powerful speaker and isn’t afraid to take the bus down to Grant Street. She has great ideas and a lot of passion. Lucille’s now-deceased sister was an open lesbian for decades when that wasn’t a good idea. Lucille has been poor, has struggled to raise her sons, has stood behind her community groups when they were under assault, has stood up to her own absentee landlord and still makes time to create beautiful green spaces so children have a place to experience green.

She needs your help to challenge a Councilman who isn’t doing anything for our community. It is a chance to invest your $10 and your two hours into the sort of change that will help a very vulnerable district and the larger City. Plus, you’ll be out by 8 and off to whatever great queer friendly activity is next on your agenda.

If you are pissed off about the gay bashings in Lawrenceville and Bloomfield, you should come.

If you know about the underground gay-conversion “ministries” in Pittsburgh, you should come.

If you want to see Homewood get some attention and resources, you should come.

If you want a smart City Council that stays in touch with the community in a very real way, you should come.

Lucille was endorsed by the Steel City Stonewall Democrats. Revered Burgess didn’t even submit a questionnaire.

Most political fundraisers are FAR more expensive. Lucille also knows that our collective $10 donations can generate change.

Please email me if you need more information.

Planned Parenthood Foe to speak in Pittsburgh

Sue — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:21:03 -0400

The Pennsylvania Institutue has one upped itself with regard to shining a light on the Chik-Fil-A homophobic mentality. Next up is a Pittsburgh based dinner with a keynote speaker infamous from defaming Planned Parenthood with so-called undercover footage.

2011 Friends of the Family Banquet -- in Pittsburgh, PA

2011 Pittsburgh Friends of the Family Banquet
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Pittsburgh Marriott North
100 Cranberry Woods Dr
Cranberry Township, PA (Outside Pittsburgh)

Keynote speaker, Lila Rose, is founder of Live Action Films, and has gone undercover to expose the seedy side of Planned Parenthood. At age 22, her recent exposes have been featured in numerous news outlets, including the O'Reilly Factor, CNN, The Washington Post, US News & World Report, The New York Times, and NPR.

Register by April 21. Call us at 717-545-0600 or 1-800-FAMILY-1.

An opportunity to financially support the Pennsylvania Family Institute will be presented.

Lila Rose and her Live Action Films purport to tell the full story, minus the edits. Her website is unbelievable. No mention, of course, of the evidence or facts presented by Planned Parenthood.

This dinner should be a hoot. I bet Darryl Metcalfe will be front and central.

And I told you the Pennsylvania Family Institute was going to move into Metcalfe territory. They already have two more sessions of The Art of Marriage scheduled for late spring. It is a big difference from donated sandwiches to $1,000 table fundraisers. Do not rest easy.

Exercising Judgment in the East End

Sue — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:01:49 -0400

When I asked Hugh McGough to sit down with me and talk about his campaign, I was admittedly most interested in the significance of electing Pittsburgh's second openly gay official (third in Allegheny County). I was unprepared for a thorough schooling in the ways of the magisteria, the judicial politics of the East End and a touching story of a child who believed he could never be a judge.

In 45 minutes. While eating a sandwich at our meeting spot, Amani International Cafe on the Northside.

Hugh has twice run for judge before, both time seeking a seat on the Court of Common Pleas. It has been an ambition of his since his youth - his father was a lawyer so he knew about such things as judges. But as a young man realizing his identity as a gay person, Hugh was also growing aware of the reality that being gay was essentially illegal. A violation of the sodomy law was a felony which prohibited one from serving on the bench. That's an awful lot of discouragement for a young adult, but it seemed to infuse Hugh with more of a determination to use his powers for the good of the community rather than remain in the closet for the good of his erstwhile dream.

Admittedly, I never really had this debate. Even when I came out, it didn't strike me that (sodomy laws were gone in PA in 1972) that my life was criminal even while I was acutely aware that my life was reviled.  I've known Hugh for years, understood that he wanted to serve on the bench, but had no idea how that ambition was shaped by homophobia. I never really thought about it more than the challenges of running as an openly gay man or perhaps enduring behind the scenes homophobia.

Hugh is running for the Magisterial District Court (commonly known as Magistrates) seat in the East End, a highly revered bastion of progressive politics. When the current magistrate announced his intent to retire, Hugh saw the oppotunity to fulfill his dream in a district disproportionately represented by voters who were familiar with him and his work. Sort of an unexpected window opening after the previous election door swung shut. Twice. Then sort of "hey, what about this?" Hugh turned his eye to a different type of judicial role, one that is really on the front lines of sorting out the legal responsibilities, protections and so forth for all parties involved, before they turn downtown. The magistrate can also be the final word on smaller financial matters (under $12,000 which doesn't seem that small to this social worker at all).

What I ~~knew~~ know about district magistrate judges was pretty much 1) they were very helpful when I had to evict someone and 2) two unsuccessful candidates in my district put their flyers through the mail slot which is illegal and does not bode well either for being lawful or setting aside their own self interests.   Neither won. **Note to candidates on the Northside - I'm paying attention.

Apparently, this is the last vestage of a dated legal system that predates the Revolutionary War. Justices of the peace presided over the peace and eventually morphed into the present day magistrate who actually has a significant amount of legal work even while operating without a significant amount of required legal knowledge. I kind of knew you didn't need to be a lawyer, but I was surprised that you don't even need a high school degree or a GED. You just need to go to magistrate school for one month and pass the test. Then you consolidate your power baise, raise your sons to run for Mayor and, oh wait ... never mind.

I guess I was so taken with Hugh's professionalism about the position, his knowledge of the types of cases and his years of experience appearing in district court as an attorney, that I'm just aghast the rest of us don't take it equally seriously. I can smirk a little because my magistrate - for whom I did vote - is a licensed and well-respected attorney, Derwin Rushing. No violation of US Postal Law by him, thank God.

So the East End may choose to elect yet another practicing attorney. Hugh's opponent in the race is City Councilor Doug Shields, whose paralegal background proves more legal experience than many of the seated magistrated and plenty of practical experience as in political matters. The lesbians love Doug. I just wish he'd stay on City Council to protect us from yet another round of legacy leadership that will take a decade to mature into independent critical thinking. Doug, why are you eroding the progressive base that keeps my family safe on multiple levels? I fee like we are doomed to political version of SORAS (Soap Opera Rapid Aging Syndrome).

This could be one of the more interesting races the East End has known since ... well, I don't know since when but I bet it will be close to what happens when Dan Frankel retires. Minus the weeping (mine).

In all seriousness, Hugh has an impressive resume, both legally and in terms of community services. He has plainly put a lot of earnest thought into how he can combine his dream and best serve the people who have always had his back. That's not a bad way to make a career move.

How interesting for Pittsburgh that we have a four way race for a magistrate seat, a four way race for two City Council seats and a three way race for another. I'm learning more every year how politics is local.

Update on pro-equality legislation in Pennsylvania

Sue — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 12:29:15 -0500

State Representive Cohen has introduced a measure that would expand existing law to recognize civil unions.   HB708 has several familiar cosponsors, including Dan Frankel, Jake Wheatley, Chelsa Wagner, Dom Costa, Paul Costa, Mark Gergely. 41 sponsors in total. This legislation has been referred to the Judiciary Committee as of February 12, 2011. Several cosponsors sit in the Judiciary Committee.

State Senator Daylin Leach introduced a similarly timed bill to extend marriage to same sex couples. SB 461 was referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee on February 9, 2011. More on why Senator is ardent on this issue.

In addition, State Representative Josh Shapiro is poised to introduce legislation which would amend the Hate Crimes statute to include sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

Also, Representative Dan Frankel from right here in Pittsburgh plans to reintroduce legislation that expands protected class to include sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. This would provide protectsion in housing, public accomadation and in the workplace.

Interesting situation to have 4 critical pieces of legislation in a state controlled by Republicans. I'm sure there's a strategy. I'll keep you informed on any momentum these pick up as well as the potential reintroduction of marriage discrimination legislation to put a DOMA referendum before the voters.

Santorum and "santorum" ... the devil is in the Google analytics

Sue — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 13:01:58 -0500

Dan Savage is incredibly naughty and wonderful in the same breath. Thanks to his creative and intrepid readers, the Savage definition of Santorum remains at the top of the Google search for Rick's name. Rick's wikipedia entry is third.

The Post-Gazette reported that Savage's readers have clicked away to put the santorum definition to the top of the search engine in light of Santorum's hope for a presidential bid. Santorum's staffers tried to "do something" about it, but the Google does not lie. So now there's the spin of Santorum being persecuted by homosexuals.

“The site’s completely gross. But I don’t think it’s a problem politically for Rick running for president. Quite the opposite,” he said. “If you’re Rick Santorum and you’re making an argument that there’s certain people that wish you ill, there’s exhibit No. 1. You say: ‘You want to see my battle scars? Google my name. You don’t think I’ve been in the trenches for years? I’ve got the scars to prove it.’”

Fortunately, Santorum's polling does not impress. However, I keep giggling when I reread the sentence "I've been in the trenches for years" with regard to the frothy, fecal matter reference. Ask me not why it makes me laugh, but I just get all sorts of amusing photos of the "man on dog" variety running through my head, minus the poor dog.

Ah, Google, we bow before your mighty algorithims.

sdf

Lucille Prater-Holliday: City Council District 9 candidate

Sue — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:02:48 -0500

I worked in City Council District 9 for nearly five years as a social worker, doing everything from financial literacy to recruiting foster parents. I worked on community projects, interacted with community leaders and watched East Liberty Station morph into The Village of Eastside. (Read that as metaphor for the slide of East Liberty into the gentrified made-up neighborhood of Eastside). While I'm by no means an expert, I do feel confident saying that there are gay people in District 9. There are people with gay folks in their extended families. And like many folks in this "disadvantaged" community, there are plenty of low and moderate income gay folks struggling along with their neighbors to be heard and empowered.

My take is that the LGBTQ residents have not been well represented by their current Councilman, Ricky Burgess. His voting record on LGBTQ issues is almost non-existant because he doesn't vote. He doesn't co-sponsor equality legislation. He doesn't support PrideFest. He uses subterfuge to discredit Councilor Bruce Kraus as just another rich white gay man (proving he's willing to toss down a stereotype to defend himself). He routinely postures as the voice of the disenfranchised and oppressed, except for those of us who happen to be oppressed because we are gay. There is no room in his vision of equality for people who are legally second class citizens because of whom we love. That's a sad fact.

The joyful news is that Councilor Burgess has a promising challenger in his upcoming reelection race. I had the chance to meet with her last week and let me assure our conversation was not at all limited to "gay" issues.

Lucille Prater-Holliday is a lifelong Pittsburgh native with real life experiences that resonate with the lives of the people she hopes to represent. Lucille was born into a family of 9 children and lived in foster care until the age of 12 when her siblings were reunited with her mother. She grew up in Beltzhoover and then Homewood after reunification where her family continued to struggle to meet basic needs. As she bluntly puts it, Lucille was "living the social problems so many poor people live."

She attended local schools, graduating from Westinghouse High School and attending CCAC in Homewood. Lucille probably shouldn't have succeeded; she readily admits the card were stacked against her. She credits the intervention of two adults in the school system who nutured her with food when her stomach was empty and with emotional care she didn't receive at home.

At age 34, Lucille found herself a widow with two young sons. She continued to work in the social services field while she pursued a bachelor's degree from Geneva College.

Throughout these years, Lucille has lived in several East End communities including East Liberty, Shadyside and Homewood as well as the East Hills. She's been a community advocate with ACORN, Action United and social justice issues. Her mantra is "don't talk about it, be about it."

I asked Lucille why she was running and she shared the story of me of her experiences of walking into "downtown" Homewood when she returned at the age of 12 . She was overcome with the vibrancy of the community, the lively business district, the sights and sounds that overwhelm a child with possibility even when she isn't sure there will be a meal on the table that night. She then described for me the destruction of the riots after Martin Luther King was assassinated, a wound from which she believes Homewood has never recovered. Her hope is for other children growing up in District 9 to have that same feeling of wonderment, that they "deserve to live in an environment that allows them to grow and succeed."

Prater-Holliday's story is compelling, but her energy and focus on issues is equal parts compelling and sort of a "yes we can" energy that has brought so many fresh new voices to the City Council table.

She's passionate about public transportation, leaning across the table to emphasize the waste which cripples riders in the most vulnerable communities, then leaning back when she acknowledges that is a county issue. But her ardor to lead her neighbors out of second-class citizenship is fervent.

Other issues:

- Piloting a "Neighborhood Council" model used in California with community council members having a formal line of communication with their City Councilor.

- Housing blight. Prater-Holliday states there are over 1,000 abandoned buildings in Homewood alone. She'd like to partner with the Housing Authority to revitalize empty houses and utilize a shared equity home ownership model.

- Education. She's concerned about the shifting plans for Westinghouse and believes the City Councilor should be more proactive advocating for children in this district.

- Employment. She's eager to tap into green iniatives to create job opportunities in her district. She'll be contributing to a Women & Girls Foundation of Southwestern PA project to highlight the accomplishments in the "green community" in 2011.

- City Pension.   She's glad City Council took a leadership role in crafting a solution.

Gay issues. Yeah, so I asked her about it. I told her about Burgess' record. She showed me a photograph of her now deceased sister who was a lesbian and very much part of the family. She told me about seeing Dreams of Hope perform at the Kelly-Strayhorn Theater on Martin Luther King Day. I asked her if she would sign a resolution in honor of PrideFest or in support of gay rights legislation on the state level. She looked me right in the eye, put her hand on her sister's photo and said "I would be proud to sign anything to support the gay community."

Prater-Holliday has a lot of questions for Councilor Burgess, mostly about where he's been. She claims she's been at dozens of community meetings and events without site of him. She claims he doesn't send staff in his absence. She exhorts that District 9 needs a public servant, not a politician.

"I've lived the life" of her neighbors is her hallmark along with dozens of years of grassroots work on social justice issues alongside her neighbors.

Prater-Holliday positions herself as a neighborhood girl with the community organizing skills that transfer into public service, rather than the family credentials that transfer into politician. She sees District 9 as a unique community of neighborhoods that have a long history of oppression and repression, but believes that the solutions lie within the district -- within the strength of those who live there and know what they need. Prater-Holliday isn't asking anyone to save Homewood or Larimer or East Hills. She's asking for the resources so the communities can save themselves and she believes she is best suited to make that happen.

Lucille Prater-Holliday is clearly a better candidate for the District 9 LGBTQ community than Councilman Burgess. Her grassroots experiences could translate well into an enthusiastic, hard-working new Councilwoman. I think this is a race worth watching as we have the chance to learn more about this unique woman. I like that she admits what she needs to learn, but has confidence she can learn it. That's the sort of moxy we need ... her grasp of how public transportation issues -- even the bus renovations -- impact her neighbors demonstrates a quick mind able to grasp the micro and macro level of systemic challenges.

Prater-Holliday's campaign kickoff event is Thursday, February 10, 2011, 6 PM at her campaign HQ 712 N. Homewood Avenue, across from CCAC.

You can reach her campaign manager quadirah (at) lucilleholliday (dot) com

Let's see what happens.

City Paper on quest for domestic partner benefits for Allegheny County employees

Sue — Thu, 27 Jan 2011 14:25:46 -0500

The Pittsburgh City Paper explores the frustration of the County Human Relations Commission with the slow pace of  the Onorato Administration around domestic partner benefits.

Is anyone really surprised? After 7 years, really?

It won't happen until the next Administration. Onorato doesn't want to use the political capital on this issue when he's potentially gearing up for a statewide race where gay votes and gay issues won't matter. That's my prediction. It isn't on his radar and the HRC is powerless.

Energy is better spent pressing Fitzgerald and Flaherty to commit to the issue.

Just my prediction.

Trib Letter to the Editor Prognosticates Intro of Pro-Gay PA Legislation

Sue — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 19:37:45 -0500

John DeBartola from the Keystone Alliance/Gaylife Newsletter wrote to the Trib earlier this month. He forecasts introduction of 4 pieces of pro-LGBTQ legislation: marriage, civil unions, hate crimed and non-discrimination legislation.

Both [Senator] Leach and [Rep.] Cohen have agreed to submit their respective bills for marriage equality and civil unions on Feb 7. Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Squirrel Hill, and Rep. Josh Shapiro, D-Montgomery County, might also have their respective bills (nondiscrimination and hate crimes) in place.

I think this aggressive stance is commendable. We all anticipate a Metcalfe sponsored anti-marriage equality bill to be introduced and suck up a lot of resources. Keeping our allies and our agenda high profile reminds us all that we do not have to capitulate to the forces of homophobia and simply beat back these foes.

I was unable to attend the Progressive Summit and learn more, but I anticipate updates emerging from other sources soon.

A note on trans protections (not) in Ohio

Sue — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 14:44:39 -0500

From Autumn Sandeen at Pam's House Blend comes discouraging news about transwomen and transwomen employed by the State losing employment protections under a new executive order which DOES extend protection based on sexual orientation.

Another stark reminder of why we need to keep our queer umbrella over everyone and not succumb to the temptation to toss our transgender sisters and brothers overboard in the name of a "baby step."

Please read Autumn's diary. Ohio today could be a rollback in Pennsylvania on some other issue tomorrow under Governor Corbett's Administration. We must be vigilant.

County Chief Executive Possibilities

Sue — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 09:07:33 -0500

Michael Lamb

Rich Fitzgerald

Mark Flaherty

I'm not sure we can go too wrong with any of these candidates for Allegheny County Chief Executive. I see domestic partner benefits on the horizon for Allegheny County employees (we are thiiiiiis close) which will pretty much seal the deal in terms of our region being a true leader with regard to equality.

This is more important than ever when a local elected state official wants to write discrimination into the Commonwealth constitution. We need to rally local Democrats in the House to stand up to this hate and insist they focus on our economy, healthcare, environment and so forth. A strong ally in this office will prove valuable in this regard.

There is also the inevitable march of non-discrimination ordinances through Pennsylvania's municipalities. Allegheny County's LGBTQ community needs to shore up our base so we can assist our sisters and brothers in Washington, Westmoreland, Butler, Beaver, Armstrong, Greene, Fayette and so forth. It is their turn so we owe it to them to elect a County leader who will lead on our behalf.

Some day, we'll seat more LGBTQ folks at the tables, alongside our champion Bruce Kraus. For now, we must insist that the women and men we do elect represent our community in their roles.

Pittsburgh's First Openly Gay Elected City Councilor Announces Intent to Run for Reelection

Sue — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:20:00 -0500

Councilman Bruce A. Kraus to Seek Second Term

January 11, 2011—Councilman Bruce A. Kraus announced today that he will be seeking a second term as a representative on Pittsburgh’s City Council.  The primary election will be held on May 17, 2011.

In a letter to constituents, Councilman Kraus cited—among other accomplishments—a few examples of the many successes that he has had in his first term:

·         Protecting libraries in our district—we will soon see a renovation of our South Side branch library. In addition, efforts are underway to bring a new state-of-the-art library building serving Knoxville, Carrick, and our other Hilltop communities

·         Responding to our neighbors’ needs more efficiently with the opening of our Hilltop District Office on Arlington Avenue

·         Working to reduce gun violence through responsible gun ownership legislation that requires reporting lost and stolen guns

The Councilman promised to continue to focus on keeping neighborhoods safe, clean, and green and to continue improvements to his constituents’ quality of life.

“It has been an honor and a truly rewarding experience to represent our neighborhoods on City Council,” Kraus said.  “I am pleased to have been able to follow through on my campaign commitments and proud of what we have been able to accomplish.”

In his first term, Kraus served two years as chair of the Committee for Public Safety and currently chairs the Committee on Public Works.  Among his legislative accomplishments were the passage of numerous bills focused on safe and clean streets and improved quality of life for residents and businesses alike.

Bruce Kraus was first elected in 2007 with 55% of the vote in the Primary Election and 86% in the General Election.

District 3 of Pittsburgh’s City Council includes the neighborhoods of Allentown, Arlington, Arlington Heights, Beltzhoover, Knoxville, Mount Oliver City, Saint Clair, the South Side Flats and Slopes, and parts of Carrick, Mount Washington, and Oakland.

Gay intern "Ran toward the bullets" to save Giffords' life

Sue — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 09:03:29 -0500

Openly gay, newly minted intern Daniel Hernandez is credited with saving the life (LezGetReal) of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords when she was shot Saturday in Tucson, Arizona.

Hernandez is a Junior at the University of Arizona and a member of the City of Tucson’s Commission on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Issues.

Follow the link for compelling video interview with Hernandez. I don't want to go on at length about this "gay" angle, but it is important to acknowledge him for his heroism and to remind us that all human beings are capable of great courage literally under fire.

This quiet story has popped up on all the major gay blogs, an example of the sad irony that a gay Latino man stepped forward in Arizona to literally stop the lifeblood of a community leader from flowing away. He held her hand. Her stayed by her side. He did everything an American is expected to do.  In Arizona a state that assails his community on a regular basis.

From JoeMyGod courtesy of the Dallas Voice:

Hernandez, who confirmed that he is gay in an interview with Instant Tea on Sunday morning, is a member of the City of Tucson Commission on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Issues.
“She’s been a great ally to the LGBT community,” Hernandez said of Giffords during the brief interview across a bad connection.
According to the Arizona Republic, Hernandez was standing about 30 feet from Giffords during the “Congress on Your Corner” event outside a Safeway store near Tucson. When the gunshots began, Hernandez ran toward them and began checking the pulses of people who’d been hit. When Hernandez got to Giffords, he used his hand to apply pressure to the entry wound on her forehead. He pulled her into his lap and held her upright so she wouldn’t choke on her blood. Hernandez used his hand to apply pressure to the wound until someone brought clean smocks from the meat department of the grocery store.
He stayed with Giffords until paramedics arrived, then climbed into an ambulance with her. On the way to the hospital, he squeezed her hand and she squeezed back

On a related issue, I got a little note from Lt. Dan Choi asking for support to have Daniel Hernandez invited to the State of the Union address. If you think that's fitting, join the Facebook group here.

America is stronger because of men like Daniel Hernandez.

Editor's Note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly identified Hernandez as the one who was rescued, instead of Congresswoman Gifford. Our apologies for the error.

HoBo's

Sue — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 10:05:53 -0500

I missed this in the Trib Review. To be fair, the online edition is unclear whether it is a local piece or a reprint (there's a byline and a tagline). But "he" takes a closer look at the pursuit of the institute of marriage for the LGBTQ community in the context of "anti-marriage" movements of the past.

Of course, the lunacy of the bohemian free-love shtick should have been obvious from the get-go. For instance, when Michael Lerner, a member of the anti-Vietnam War "Seattle Seven," did marry, in 1971, the couple exchanged rings made from the fuselage of a U.S. aircraft downed over Vietnam and cut into a cake inscribed in icing with a Weatherman catchphrase, "Smash Monogamy."

Today Lerner is a (divorced and remarried) somewhat preposterous, prosperous progressive rabbi who officiates at all kinds of marriages -- gay and straight -- and, like pretty much the entire left, loves the idea of open gays becoming cogs in the military-industrial complex.

He also rightly identifies the socio-economic divides that threaten to undermine attempts to act cohesively right here in Western Pennsylvania.

The gay experiment with open bohemianism was arguably shorter. Of course, AIDS played an obvious and tragic role in focusing attention on the downside of promiscuity. But even so, the sweeping embrace of bourgeois lifestyles by the gay community has been stunning.

Now I'll admit I'm a bourgeois lifestyle gay woman. I just try to be aware of it and use my privileges to help. I realize how hollow that rings, but I also genuinely do think he's right now .... the divide is here. I've talked about it before so I won't rant here, but as we move into a post-DADT world we are going to see this playing out more and more often in the national debate. Organizations are now pegged as Gay, Inc (by me, too) and inside/outsider status seems to change daily. Organizations are struggling to reconcile the different agendas and priorities, but also the shifting cultural differences within the gay community. Setting aside those who oppose marriage in general, there is a very strong middle sector of the LGBTQ community who are much more concerned with their jobs, their housing and their healthcare. Marriage equality could help, but it seems to drain resources from efforts that could help much sooner and much more concretely and not be grounded in your identity as one-half of couple, rather than your identity as an American citizen.

Many of my conservative friends -- who oppose both civil unions and gay marriage and object to rampant promiscuity -- often act as if there's some grand alternative lifestyle for gays. But there isn't. And given that open homosexuality is simply a fact of life, the rise of the HoBos -- the homosexual bourgeoisie -- strikes me as good news.

I share the belief that as gays gain power and influence, it can be good. It can also cut them (us?) off from some of discriminations that power and influence (and affluence) buffer.

The challenge we face here in Western PA is that we don't have a leader who bridges these worlds. The only place where this barrier may come down is at the bars, but we've moved past the time when bars are "the" institutions for the community. With that comes the price of addiction, risky sexual behavior, isolation, and an insular, if somewhat safe, worldview. We haven't yet moved to a place where there's a replacement here in Pittsburgh. There are organizations who try and achieve moderate success, but ... no leader.

That's going to be the necessary next step to galvanize Western PA's LGBTQ community to face down Darryl Metcalfe and push back against forces that perhaps strip us of existing rights and protections. Finding someone to inspire, to effectively reach across the socio-economic divide and to live transparently will be a challenge. Finding someone to unite the leaders of their factions and harvest their energies will be even more challenging as no one cedes power, even perceived power, without a fight.

I guess the challenge is to decide whether the fight is best fought within the community or beyond.