Pittsburgh Lesbian Correspondents

Sign Petition for Pirates to Contribute to It Gets Better Video Here

Sue — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 20:55:08 -0400

Click here to sign the petition.

James Harrison's non-apology for "gay slur"

Sue — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 09:29:57 -0400

I read this late last night and choked on whatever was in my glass. This man has zero understanding of LGBT issues. Zero. He needs to be educated and I hope his management team recognizes that he is saying ... well, first read his comments. (Full statement here.)

I also need to make clear that the comment about Roger Goodell was not intended to be derogatory against gay people in any way. It was careless use of a slang word and I apologize to all who were offended by the remark. I am not a homophobic bigot, and I would never advocate intolerance of gay people.

A slang word? Again, I'm assuming the word is either "fag" or "faggot" but I haven't seen the original article and all of the mainstream media folks are not printing the word. Hopefully, we can clear that up when Men's Journal comes out today.

Anyway, slang word? Let's contrast this to his publicist attributing his comments to his culture.

"I don't think we should get caught up in his cultural language," Parise said. "I think people will read that for what it is and move on. I don't think anyone truly believes James thinks the commissioner is the devil."

It would be easy to assume that Harrison and Parise are saying that using the word "fag" or "faggot" is part of African-American culture and thus deserves a pass (pun not intended) because it isn't *intended* to be offensive.

First of all, it is demeaning to imply that the African-American culture embraces a hateful word as part of their culture. It isn't slang. It is a derogatory word for gay men (and the entire LGBTQ community by extension). It conveys a message of disrespect, intolerance and even disgust or hate. There's no way to spin these words as "slang" unless you are on the heterosexual, dismissive side of the "joke." And that's an ugly place to be.

Second, I think there is a cultural component and Parise may be on to something. The culture, however, is male dominated professional sports. This is the fourth incident in less than a month (2 football, 1 baseball and 1 hockey) reported by the media. Four incidents in one month suggests there is in fact a cultural acceptance of the word "fag" within this community. Too bad for the LGBTQ players, staff, coaches and, oh yeah, fans, especially the kids.

NBA star Kobe Bryant was fined heavily for saying this word in a heated moment. It was wrong, he should know better and the fine was justified given the negative impact it has on the kids who look up to him. Period.

Harrison has apparently been stewing on his hatred toward Roger Goodell for some time. He knew this interview was coming and he had fair reason to suspect the topic would arise. In other words, he had ample opportunity to prepare his comments. If he got so worked up in an interview that he "slipped," then he needs to deal with these feeelings b/c they are leading him down some bitter paths and hurting innocent people.

If Harrison thinks the words "fag" and "faggot" or even "homo" are slang terms, he is a homophobic bigot. Sadly, he takes the immature approach of pretending that "offending" people isn't his bad b/c he didn't mean to do so. What a poor role model this man is for youth in America. And what a poor reflection on Pittsburgh and the Steeler Nation.

He needs to be educated. If Tracy Morgan could make time to meet with LGBTQ youth and families to make amends for his words, Harrison could take the time to meet with some of the LGBTQ youth of Pittsburgh or some of the Steeler's LGBTQ fans. He could hear firsthand how these words impact our lives. And maybe his heart would grow a few sizes and he'd be a man who can claim not to be a bigot in spite of the culture of his profession.

I'm willing to facilitate this. I'll be waiting for the call.

Win a pair of free passes to the Pittsburgh Blues Festival

Sue — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 13:50:54 -0400

Like the blues? The Pittsburgh Tote Bag Project is giving away a pair of passes to the Pittsburgh Blues Festival good for Sunday, July 24, 2011 at Hartwood Acres.

You have three opportunities to win:

First, leave a comment on the blog.

Second, leave a comment on their Facebook page.

Finally, mention @Tote4Pgh on your Twitter account.

Drawing will be Tuesday, July 19 at 12 PM!

Good luck!

Oh, James Harrison ... you had to go there ...

Sue — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 12:13:45 -0400

UPDATE: If this angers you, please ask the Pittsburgh Pirates to send a different message to the LGBT community, especially youth, by signing the petition to make a video for the It Gets Better Project. Constructive response to a disgusting situation.

******************************************************************************

So, Steeler's linebacker James Harrison used an anti-gay slur (the Post-Gazette did not print which leads me to assume it was "fag") in his latest rant against NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in an issue of Men's Journal magazine.

In the article, Harrison uses an anti-gay slur to describe Goodell, and also refers to him as "stupid," "puppet" and "dictator."
If the Steelers had defeated the Packers in the Super Bowl, Harrison said, he would have whispered in Goodell's ear during the trophy ceremony: "Why don't you quit and do something else, like start your own league in flag football?"

The truly sad moment comes when his agent "spins" the comments as cultural commentary.

"A lot of it is bravado," Parise said. "I think people have to be careful not to read that and think those statements are anything more than expressions of feelings, particularly in regard to the commissioner. The commissioner fined James $100,000 last year. What do you want him to say, he's my best friend? James is a tough individual and that's the type of language he uses."
<snip>
"I don't think we should get caught up in his cultural language," Parise said. "I think people will read that for what it is and move on. I don't think anyone truly believes James thinks the commissioner is the devil."

His cultural language? Does he mean the culture of football ...or professional sports? Or famous people? Cause dropping "fag" into a rant is not unfamiliar to individuals in these communities. Or does he mean the African-American culture? Cause I don't really think devil-talk and homophobic bigotry is universal to the African-American community.

Team Harrison needs a sit down with GLAAD to do some spin. A lot of LGBTQ folks are fans of the Steelers, but how often can you turn your head to bad behavior (drunk driving, sexual assault allegations, domestic violence) before you are forced to reassess if the team deserves your loyalty?

From Kobe Bryant to Philly's DeSean Jackson, the homophobic tirades are a serious issue and do real damage. Callingg someone a devil probably isn't going to lead to a 14 year old being bullied in a lockeroom. Or erode the self-esteem of a 15 year old who hasn't told anyone he is attracted to other boys. Or egg on the 16 year old who picks on other kids.

Harrison's conduct is unacceptable on many levels, but the "gay slur" is particularly egregious. His agent spinning this as a "cultural" issue is beyond the pale of racist stupidity. I guess we are supposed to assume Kobe, DeSean and James aren't capable of conducting themselves in a respectful, professional manner under stress because they are African-American? How is that a defense? It is horrible and demeaning to these grown adults who certainly have the capacity for self-control.

Just pathetic all across the board.

Another Update on Pittsburgh Pirates and "It Gets Better Project"

Sue — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 13:53:16 -0400

We surged past 200 signatures on the petition overnight and now hover around 223.

223 Pirates' fans encouraging the Bucs to take a stance against bullying of LGBTQ youth. This is a great way for you to weigh in and urge our hometown team to stand up for youth right here in our communities. I might say it paves the way for other collaborations down the road.

I went ahead and invited the Diversity Initiatives staff to meet with the Gay & Lesbian Community Center to learn more about what is actually happening on the ground for LGBTQ folks every day, not just on Pride Night at PNC Park. I'm also not sure folks realize that there is a lot of sports enthusiasts in our community.

If the Pirates take this stance against anti-LGBTQ bullying, it will be a grant thing for Pittsburgh to be among the first Major League clubs to "step up to the plate" (ha) and embrace the responsibility of being the City of Champions.

Pennsylvania faces many up-hill challenges for our community and our allies. We still don't have anti-discrimination protections, hate crime protections or protections in our schools. We are struggling to get domestic partner benefits for public employees, unionized or not. We have to fight off another battle over a so-called "marriage protection" amendment. It is a very full plate.

I think we should welcome the Pirates to join us there in whatever capacity they can do it. I wonder if they offer domestic partner benefits?

Please promote the petition. http://www.change.org/petitions/ask-the-pittsburgh-pirates-to-make-a-video-for-the-it-gets-better-project

Update on Pirates and It Gets Better

Sue — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 09:34:55 -0400

This little petition story received boosts from the likes of the City Paper and 2 Political Junkies.

From the City Paper:

Judging by the Nutting family's political activity, Kerr's initiative might not seem to have much of a chance. Ogden Nutting, Bob Nutting's father, has contributed nearly $12,000 to conservatives nationwide, like Michele Bachmann and Pat Toomey. Bob Nutting has also donated $1,000 to conservative West Virginia congressman David McKinley.
But team spokesman Jim Trdinich says that participating in the video project is "something we are looking to take part in, [although] the organization is still working on the most effective plan to assist everybody involved."

Yes, this is a bit daunting. I had actually forgotten this tidbit. Hmmm. Still, "something we are looking to take part in" is not an outright "no thank you." I'm not sure what an effective plan might be. The truth is that there are LGBTQ kids sleeping on the streets in Pittsburgh b/c they got booted from their homes, either directly or due to unrelenting pressure about their identities. There are kids being slammed into lockers, stuffed into lockers, kept from their lockers and having their lockers vandalized. The get beaten up, called "fags" and "dykes" and much worse. They are mocked, belittled and persecuted in the way that only other teens can do.

It is not as if a Pirates video will save these kids from future harassment. But it does acknowledge their persecution and remind them that their are adults who are in their corner.

Pittsburgh is very fortunate to have some resources for LGBTQ youth. Dreams of Hope performing group does amazing storytelling about these and other experiences. The Gay & Lesbian Community Center has a thriving Friday night youth might under the leadership of Ben Cook. Persad has an afterschool program. Faith communities embrace queer youth and remind them that they are loved and safe in their youth programming. And street outreach programs try to connect homeless LGBTQ youth with appropriate services. Families Like Ours provides exposure to other LGBTQ families.

Frankly, I'd like to see the Pirates charitable arm funding some of these efforts. I'd like to think the dialogue won't stop at a video.

But, the video might be the entree we need. It is worth a shot. It has gotten us this far. I'm moved that I don't know most of the folks signing the petition. I don't recognize their names. I do appreciate their comments and the fact that the information is apparently making its way around Pittsburgh.

Please, if you haven't done so, sign the petitions. Share the link on FB and Twitter. Be that one name that gets us past 150 signatures and a little closer to 200.

http://www.change.org/petitions/ask-the-pittsburgh-pirates-to-make-a-video-for-the-it-gets-better-project

sdf

Ask the Pittsburgh Pirates to make a video for the "It Gets Better Project"

Sue — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:36:57 -0400

Are you familiar with the "It Gets Better Project"

Recently, a series of Major League Baseball teams have contributed videos to the project. The first team was the San Francisco Giants followed by the Cubs, Red Sox and the Mariners. According to the project, other teams are considering signing on.

So I contacted the Pirates Diversity Manager whom I've met and began a dialogue about the project. I recruited some other folks to advocate for our community and teamed up with Equality PA (they are also working with the Phillies).

The time has come for fans to weigh in so we set up a Change.org petition, much like folks did in the home cities of the teams listed above. Please take a moment to follow the link and sign on. Include a message in the comments section if you like. But please remember, we are in encouragement mode.

The Pirates hosted their first "Pride Night at PNC Park" in 2004 so there is precedent for them to work with our community. And I would hope they would appreciate that taking a stance against bullying based on sexual orientation and gender identity is not exactly a controversial LGBTQ rights stance. It is tremendously important issue and the more allies the project gains, the more we can hope to improve the lives of youth in our community.

Here's the link. Please pass it around. http://www.change.org/petitions/ask-the-pittsburgh-pirates-to-make-a-video-for-the-it-gets-better-project

They want to cure me, they really want to cure me!

Sue — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 11:58:09 -0400

I feel like I am in the big girl lesbian blogger leagues after receiving my first national anti-gay email commentary in response to being quoted in a Politico.com article on marriage equality. <sniff>

As you may know, the President does not believe in marriage equality. He used to when he was a State Senator, but now that appears to be a paperwork error. He is "evolving," but in spite of collecting a lot of big fat gay money last night at an LGBT fundraiser in NYC, he didn't evolve fast enough to weigh in on the NY marriage equality vote that could come as early as today.

I'm kicking myself because we missed an opportunity to remind him that we paid attention by showing up with some signs and annoyed gay would-be-donors at his Pittsburgh appearance today. Missed opportunity.

Here's a portion of what I shared with Politico.com when the contacted me.

“I recognize that he has made changes that improve our quality of life, but until he embraces the notion that we deserve true equality, he hasn’t delivered,” said Sue Kerr, a gay rights activist in Pittsburgh.
But “a ‘fierce advocate’ would counter the rhetoric from the far right that demonizes and dehumanizes our community,” Kerr said. “A ‘fierce advocate’ would recognize that my partner and I should not pray we aren’t transported to a faith-based hospital in case of an emergency and potentially denied access to one another because we aren’t married. He’s taken steps to right these injustices, but I grow impatient with delayed equality.”

The reported loved the part where I tied Obama's lack of leadership and failure to deliver to the social conservative Democrats denying domestic partner benefitst to their employees because they quiver at the political fallout. (Again, yes, I am still talking about "that" Democrat.) Sort of trickle down lack of leadership. I wonder if the fat cat Democrats on the national level give a damn about lesbian partners being unable to access preventative healthcare because of their actions? But it didn't make it into the piece.

So actually, I thought the email message was spam because it seems to be a fake address so I almost deleted it. Thank goodness curiosity got the better of me. And it is pretty tame compared to when the local lesbian told me she hoped I choked and died on my own bile. Now that's an insult. And sort of a death wish which was kind of creepy. Then there was the gay man who told me all the lesbians in Pittsburgh hate me. I didn't realize anyone was conducting a poll and if there was, sweeping it is a pretty significant accomplishment. I was accused of bullying a gay man of affluence and access which was in poor taste given the recent rash of youth committing suicide over LGBTQ bullying. That one I almost published because it was pretty disgusting to compare yourself to those kids because you think I'm mean to you.

There's more. I'm anti-ally, anti-feminist, anti-LGBTQ family, don't do enough in the community, bitch and moan too much, don't appreciate behind the scenes work, don't trust the white men to "have it under control," and focus too much on dykes and the leather community.

Then there was the time "he who won't be named" lost his cool at a public event because I published his voting record. That was sort of the pinnacle of "arriving" as a blogger.

But this is a whole new level because it is polite and apparently well-intentioned. Plus, it took a bit of time to track me down as my blog was not mentioned in the Politico piece. Here's a snip.

Dear Ms. Kerr:

You were mentioned in POLITICO.
It doesn't matter what Obama does. The ex-gay truth will out. Really.
Decades of betrayal of the public by the press and others have allowed the myth of the Normal Gay to grow.
The real information is at: <I'm not linking to ex-gay sites - Sue>
Early-life faulty bonding and identification with the same-sex parent is key.
Let go of your illusions and go for true self-acceptance

She's so polite, if grammatically challenged. So, Sharon Kass of Washington, D.C., here's to you for validating the time I took to talk with the Politico writer. Here's to you for validating the time I spend blogging, regardless of the fallout. Here's to you for reminding me why the lives and experiences of death-wish issuing lesbians and suicide contemplating LGBTQ youth are worth the effort I invest both here on the blog and in the other work I do.

And here's to you for keeping my interest and desire to expose the ex-gay ministries alleged to be deeply embedded in the "ministries" of two local mega-churches.

You join a long line of folks who don't want to hear it. And that's okay with me. Because I don't represent anyone but myself. And no one is forced to read my blog.

But they do.

I was caught up in Lez Get Real Deception

Sue — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 11:13:59 -0400

By now, you may have heard of the scandal involving two white heterosexual men posing as lesbian bloggers. One of whom was an editor that recruited me to contribute to the blog, LezGetReal.com

When Syrian-American lesbian blogger Amina Araf was allegedly taken into custody by government authorities, we eventually learned that Amina was really an American man named Tom McMasters. A straight man.

One of "Amina's" biggest supporters, was Paula Brooks editor of LezGetReal. As folks realized that no one had actually met Brooks either (like "Amina"), suspicions were raised and we learned that "Paula" is another straight white married man named Bill Graber. A retired construction worker from Ohio.

This story is unbelievable, but it is true. Both men claim they were trying to help the LGBTQ community. Instead, they have done incredible damage to the credibility of bloggers and other online media sources around the world, especially LGBTQ sources.

I was duped. When Graber, posing as Paula Brooks, approached me about contributing to the site, I checked out the site content and agreed. I haven't contributed too often and most of it has been crossposted from my own blog. But "Paula" pursued me to write about Pennsylvania politics on a more consistent basis. I just didn't have the time.

But I am aghast to be associated with this duplicity. And I'm so sorry that I didn't exercise more due diligence before I pointed you in the direction of LezGetReal for information. It was all based on fraudulent conduct. The information may still be good, but it is a slap in the face of LGBTQ bloggers everywhere.

There's debate over the extent of damage the deceptions crafted by McMasters and Graber have caused. For the new editors at LezGetReal, their is a need to grapple with the personal violatioin and restore the site's credibility.

To be honest this hasn't really registered locally. Marty Griffin hasn't been camped out at Lesbian Central to catch me on film. No one insists I skype them to verify I'm a lesbian. I haven't seen interviews with former compadres who have fingers to point about my sordid heterosexual past (I came out at 28 so there is one.)

To put things in context, my colleague Chris Potter of Slagheap (and the only one who did notice enough to poke at me about it) had this to say:

I remember when I was a kid back in the 1980s, there was a spate of ostensibly straight white male celebs who stunned the world by turning out to be gay. ("Not Rock Hudson!" etc.) Now the world is stunned when online lesbians turn out to be straight white males.

We've come a long way. Sort of.

For me? Well, I'm not a straight white man. I did get duped by one, but it doesn't change my overall opinion of straight white men. Like Santorum. And Gingrich. And Metcalfe. Oh ....

On a more serious note, I will no longer be contributing to LezGetReal because I just have concerns about what is happening in the wake of this revelation - there's a lot of emotion driven decision making. I am fortunate enough to belong to a national LGBTQ blogging group so I've met many of the other bloggers live and in person. I met Pam, Bill and Jeremy along with others so I don't have qualms about contributing to their sites or attributing their writing. I'm under no illusion that John Morgan is a lesbian so that's all good. But I will have to rethink a few things, too.

Credibility is a serious issue for the LGBTQ community. For our community, the mainstream media coverage is pretty skimpy, although getting better. Blogging and citizen journalism are significant tools in the struggle for equality, both here in the US and across the world. We can't afford for even the most well-intentioned ally to play these types of games. There are reasons McMasters and Graber made their choices instead of simply lending their skills and talents to actual lesbian bloggers.

Lots of blog decisions to be made in the near future.

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.

Blogging for LGBT Families 2011 - Don't Devalue the Aunties

Sue — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 17:02:28 -0400

Once again, it is time to participate in the blogswarm for LGBT families sponsored by the blog Mombian.

I've given some thought to my topic this year and decided to write a response to the perception that not having children makes us less than a family. I think there is more than one person who perceives LGBTQ families without children as somehow a little lesser. It is particularly sad when people who claim to be pro-choice condemn those who choose not to have children outside of the context of abortion.

First, I have a lovely family even though I do not have children of my own. I have my partner of nearly 8 years with whom I've built a little nuclear family of our very own. We cannot legally wed, but we are a family. We also have extended family including two nephews and two nieces, all five and under. Then there are cousins, second cousins, recently found cousins missing for two generations because of a turn of the century adoption. Our family is complex and complicated, but never dull.

Second, we have a role in the lives of children who are not related to us and this is not unusual for LGBTQ people, especially those who do not have their own children. To some of these children we are aunts. To others, we are family friends who come bearing gifts and/or delicious snacks. To all, we are accepted, loved and valued as part of their own extended family circle. Yes, they sometimes ask about our relationship, but they are always satisfied with the answer b/c they have no agenda, just curiosity. I am humbled every time they run over to show me a work of art or ask me to play. Or confide a secret.

As for why we chose not to have children, well, that's really a private decision. But just because we joke about being mom to our kitties, please don't think we fail to honor and appreciate the children in our lives (and their parents). And we grew up in families so we do have some perspective as to what they need to be successful. Support from other adults is one important thing. I had someone in my life who was close to my family, but objective and he meant the world in the terms of providing me support and love.

Deciding not to parent is a valid choice. It is not better or worse than raising children. It is just a different path. I'm sure there are plenty of people who do it for selfish reasons, but be honest - there are plenty of people who have children for selfish reasons. We can't know what is in people's hearts or behind their decisions unless they share with us. But we judge families and parents each and every day, especially in the media. It is really heartbreaking to see the relentless scrutiny of a parent in the news as if a 60 second soundbyte could tell us the real story behind a poor decision, mistake or error in judgment.

I find it wonderful how the number of LGBTQ families with children has grown in the past few years here in Pittsburgh. Monthly potlucks, swim parties, trips to the zoo and so forth are spontaneously organized through a loosely organized group. Organizations like the Gay & Lesbian Community Center and Pridefest have greatly expanded their programming for children and youth. My church has several same sex parents in attendance and it is all good. I love it, in fact.

My friends opted for an open adoption and their son occasionally tells people he has three mommies which is hysterical and I'm sure raises a few eyebrows. But he's a pretty lucky kid to have three women who love him and he knows it in an age appropriate way kids have for absorbing information.

Supporting LGBTQ families is one reason I work so hard to advocate for legislation that supports the larger LGBTQ community. Domestic partner benefits are essential, especially if one parent opts to stay home with the children. Public accomodation protections are imperative as families access those places on a more regular basis, be it the local Wal-Mart or the public pool. Encouraging LGBTQ families to become foster parents builds stronger families for children in the system. The list goes on and on. I've also worked in my workplaces to create LGBTQ friendly policies and supports.

It is also why I pester my parent friends to make themselves aware in spite of daycare, basketball and laundry commitments. Their votes and involvement in advocacy puts a face to the concept of a LGBTQ family.

Happy Pride to ALL of Pittsburgh's LGBTQ families and our allies!

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.

###

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

On The Spot: Local fundraiser to support women and girls in need of feminine hygeine products

Sue — Thu, 19 May 2011 14:15:52 -0400

For 13 years or so, I took pads and tampons for granted. My family had more than its fair share of economic struggles, but my Mom always made sure I had these feminine hygeine products when needed. When I was on my own, it never occured to me that they weren't a necessity. Yes, I'd use coupons or buy generic when necessary, but accessibility was just not an issue.

When I was 25 years old, I was working in social service ministry for an interfaith group of churches in a rural Western Kentucky town. Think no red lights, no restaurants open on Sundays and no social service programs to speak of. No buses, lots of decrepit rental housing and poverty of near two-thirds world dimensions.

Part of my work was to run a small community center, including a thrift store. I had developed a volunteer program to allow local women to help sort the clothing in exchange for credits to purchase what they needed. No one took things for free in this community.

One day, I joined the sorters and noticed they had two piles of "rags" -- so I asked about it, thinking in my 25 year old naive way that they might be for cleaning. There was some unease among the women sorting so I let it drop. Later, a volunteer in her 40s took me aside to explain. She was blunt. Feminine hygeine products were expensive and not covered by food stamps. When faced with spending precious cash, the needs of the children alway took precedence. I got that, but still didn't see where she was going. What did this have to do with cleaning rags? I assured her it was fine with the organization for the women to do what they wanted with anything we couldn't sell.

So she was even more blunt. She explained that she and other local women used literal rags for their periods. They also used rags for toilet paper when things were really tight. I was stunned into silence. Actual rags? Such a thing had never occured to me, even when I was in my feminist-moon-goddess phase of using reusable pads that had been pretty damn expensive and came with a "moon jar" which shows how oblivious I was back then.

I remember staring at her and hearing an almost click on my own emotional maturity as I realized how important my next words would be. I thanked her for explaining it to me and told her that I wanted to help with as much dignity as possible. I asked her to take the lead on this special project since I assumed the other women would feel more comfortable. She agreed. So we began a little pile of menstruation appropriate rags that quietly helped local women.

Then, she apologized to me for exposing me to something uncomfortable as if I was somehow tainted by this glimpse into the real world of rural poverty (and urban poverty I learned later). Admittedly, I was shaken. I kept thinking of how awkward and uncomfortable it would be, as well as messy. I was young enough to feel especially bad for their daughters. I wanted to run out and buy scores of pads, but I knew somehow it was better to go with the plan the women themselves created.

But I was upset. I tried to play cool (I'm sure she saw through me), but it was the sort of systemic eye-opening moment that radically transformed me into a real social worker. How could this happen? What about the rest of the world? What about my high school friends -- did any of them have these experiences? Mind you, I'm an 80's baby which meant much more poverty and financial struggle than neon hair scrunchies and mall rat experiences.

The women who worked with me identified a need and crafted a solution. They weren't embroiled in existential angst because they had bigger issues to face. But I wrestled with this for years. When I returned to Pittsburgh, I learned about similar experiences at food pantries and among women experiencing homelessness. I can say with ease that the initial conversation was a defining moment for me as a social worker and a woman.

I was thrilled when I learned about On The Spot which raises funds to provide feminine hygeine products for high school students in partnership with Planned Parenthood. They have awesomely fun fundraisers featuring homebaked cookies and have done a great job of bringing this conversation into progressive circles.

So, yeah, when I learned about this project, I went right back to that 1996 conversation and still my jaw dropped to think about young girls in the same situation.

The next event is Tuesday, May 24, 2011 from 6-9 PM at Hough's in Greenfield. The event features cookies, 50/50, raffle prizes and much more. Attendees are asked to bring a box of pads (preferred) or tampons along with a financial donation ($5-10).

If you can't attend, you can still help. Donations are accepted at these spots. You can contribute these items to a food pantry drive in your area. You can talk with the Administration at your local middle and high schools to see how prepared they are to help young girls.

And you can help reduce the stigma of asking by making sure the men and boy in your lives can buy a box of tampons without flinching.

On The Spot's website is here. Click to learn more and hope to see you at Hough's on Tuesday.

UPDATE: I forgot to mention that inevitably some good hearted person suggests providing reusable supplies for women and girls in these situations. That's a healthy sentiment, but impractical even dangerous when sanitation is an issue. I think those folks should donate those supplies to food pantries so women can choose them if they want them. That's fine. But I do not think we should impose on anyone, especially young women who probably already feel pretty awful about this aspect of their female identity. Allowing them a "typical" teen girl experience in the midst of whatever chaos created the lack of resources is pretty damn important. There's no one right way to experience our menstrual cycles, but we have to recognize that our choices expand as our privileges expand and craft solutions based on the reality of the girls and women we aspire to help.

Pittsburgh's 6th Annual Dyke March

Sue — Mon, 16 May 2011 11:45:12 -0400

Pittsburgh's 2011 Dyke March is set for Saturday, June 18 from 2-5 PM in Bloomfield. The March first relocated to Bloomfield in 2010 and enjoyed a successful march with a lot of community visibility. 2010 also marked the first year the Pittsburgh Police provided appropriate protections which enhanced the experience of all marchers. What an awkward sentence! It took a lot of prodding of public officials to get the safety of these marchers on the radar and even more prodding to provide the actual police protection. I'm hopeful the prodding becomes less necessary, particularly given the prodding of City Councilman Patrick Dowd to challenge perceptions of police homophobia. One might say this is a litmus test ... can the police pull this off without being prompted?

To be fair and accurate, last year's police detail were respectful and fine. One officer had an "a ha" feminist moment. They addressed some unruly teens and everything was pretty lowkey. Here's my take on the 2010 March.

The march kicks off with a rally at Morrow Triangle Park at 2 PM. The march commences at 3 PM up Liberty and over to Friendship Park. Dykes and dyke supporters are encouraged to bring picnics to enjoy at the park after the March.

Belvedere's is hosting the post-Dyke March party from 9 PM - 2 AM.

My understanding (my opinion, not that of the organizers) is that this is an important event because of the visibility. The growth of the march in 5 years is a testament to the emerging visibility of dyke culture and women in the Pittsburgh queer community. I've probably commented every year on how pleasantly surprised I am to see such an array of participants.

I suggest you visit this website for more information on the history and meaning of the dyke march.

Blog for Equality Pgh: My Thoughts

Sue — Wed, 11 May 2011 13:30:25 -0400

I am honored and so pleased that 20 of my fellow bloggers took the time on Tuesday, May 10, 2011 to contribute to this project. Blog for Equality Pgh 2011 may be the most important of our blogswarms as we face increasingly well-funded and hostile opponents to LGBTQ equality.

Why does this matter? Well, I do monitor the ways people find their way to this blog and the previous years' posts have generated a fair amount of hits. Sometimes I wonder who reads them? Other bloggers? Readers? Teens? Adults living far away from the bingos, bars and potlucks? Foes wanting to get a glimpse into the opinion of our allies? All of the above and more?

I don't agree with everything that was written. I fear some underestimate the damage that a protracted battle around the equality of LGBTQ persons can inflict, particularly on those already laboring under negative influences from their family, friends and neighbors. I'm not sure we appreciate the "agenda" in which this is just one item.

But I also appreciate that more coverage in mainstream blogs of the general topic is good. And I appreciate the lots and lots and lots of words that lifted up and affirmed the LGBTQ community, as well as blowing holes right through the idea that marriage equality threatens anyone.

The marriage amendment is a weapon, a symbol of a cruel, destructive agenda that shows compassion only for those who earn it by following/believing in a creed that in no way shape or form stems from God or the Jesus I was taught to know.

The love with which 20 people embraced the Blog For Equality Pittsburgh stands in stark contrast to that agenda. Be it love of gay family or friends, the love of a compassionate Creator or the love of justice and fairness ... love is the thread that binds the 20 posts together. Here's hoping those posts, individually or collectively, generate the action we need to defeat this amendment and ensure that Pennsylvania remains a place dedicated to equality. For all.

While We Are Talking Equality ...

Sue — Tue, 10 May 2011 22:20:15 -0400

Other good stuff happened ...

In New York, openly gay State Assemblyman Danny O'Donnell has announced the introduction of a marriage equality bill. He announced it by Twitter. You can follow him @DanielJODonnell

How can you not follow this guy? It would be like denying yourself a breath of fresh air. I just nearly gassed myself with weed killer in a death match with poison ivy so the fresh air analogy is the best you are gonna get from me right now.

So New York is a battleground. More than 1,000 folks turned out for a lobby day on Monday and the Governor supports the legislation. There's always a but ... however, today we are just going to bask in the good news.

Next, we have word from The New York Times

After 33 years of debate, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) has voted to change its constitution and allow openly gay people in same-sex relationships to be ordained as ministers, elders and deacons.

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

Happy Pridefest, Johnstown!

Sue — Fri, 06 May 2011 10:10:07 -0400

Today marks the 1st Pridefest for Johnstown! Congratulations.

The event is sponsored by the Highlands Community College Allies Club and the Keystone Alliance/Gaylife Newsletter.

Lots of good stuff happening in Pennsylvania.

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.

***************************************************************************************

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.

**********************************************************************

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.

Uh Huh Her ....

Sue — Mon, 02 May 2011 17:40:47 -0400

Congrats to our winner: Elena Kuptsynova!

And thanks to http://www.opusoneproductions.com/ for supporting local blogs!

Winners!

Sue — Mon, 02 May 2011 17:00:24 -0400

I used a random number generator to select winners for the two giveaways (TOTEM and Uh Huh Her). The winners have been contacted and I'm hoping they are all sorts of excited. I'll announce their names as soon as they get back to me.

Thanks to everyone for playing!

Dreams of Hope - Summer Qamp

Sue — Mon, 02 May 2011 13:20:49 -0400

Dreams of Hope has a summer camp week that sounds awesome.

Dreams of Hope

Summer Arts QAMP!

August 16 - 20th

Dreams of Hope is hosting an overnight camp from August 16 - 20th for LGBTA youth ages 13-17. The camp will be held at the Emma Kaufmann Camp on Cheat Lake near Morgantown, West Virginia. Please submit your forms by July 1, 2011 to secure your place!

http://www.dreamsofhope.org/camp

In addition to Special Workshops designed specifically for Dreams of Hope on Drumming, Spoken Word, and LGBT and Allies Support and Education, camp will include:

High and Low Ropes Course; Athletics; Instruction and Recreational Swimming; Water Skiing; Canoeing and kayaking; Knee Boarding; Tubing; Arts & Crafts; Hiking; Ceramics; Campfires; Karaoke

Participants will:

Grow their artistic abilities and talents.

Improve their self confidence and self-esteem.

Participate in fun and challenging activities.

Develop friendships with young people from other geographic areas, ethnicity, and socio-economic and racial backgrounds.

Explore issues they face in their schools and neighborhoods, and learn how to combat the obstacles they face.

Have a space where they can relax and be themselves!

Cost is $500 per camper, which includes: Three meals a day plus snacks, all camp activities, round-trip transportation from Pittsburgh to camp and memories that will last a lifetime. Need based scholarships available. Please submit a scholarship form.

FORMS DUE: July 1, 2011 - to secure a place at camp

After July 1, applications will be considered if there is space.

Space is limited to 24 campers, so go on our web site, call, mail, or email to request your registration packet. (Please include your name, address, phone and email.)

Dreams of Hope•www.dreamsofhope.org/camp● info@dreamsofhope.org•(412) 361-2065

Summer Arts QAMP!•P.O. Box 4912•Pittsburgh PA 15206

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.

A Third Chance To Win

Sue — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 14:44:03 -0400

Adagio Health is offering two free tickets to their 40th anniversary party on May 19, 2011 at Rodef Shalom. Keynote speaker is Victoria Kennedy. The tickets are coutesy of the Pittsburgh Women's Blogging Society.

Click here for more details