Pretrial conference set for Jan. 5
By JOSHUA LYNSEN, Washington Blade | Oct. 21 at 2:56 PM Oct. 21 at 2:56 PM
WASHINGTON -- A courtroom showdown between the Democratic National Committee and its former gay outreach director, Donald Hitchcock, is likely to occur next year. Hitchcock was fired from his DNC post in 2006, shortly after his domestic partner, Paul Yandura, wrote an open letter to gay Democrats urging them to withhold donations to the party because he felt Dean wasn’t doing enough to combat anti-gay state ballot initiatives.
Hitchcock later filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against Dean and the DNC alleging, among other things, anti-gay discrimination. The DNC has denied the claims. Final efforts at mediation failed in September and a pretrial conference has been set for ...
From Washington Blade staff reports | Oct. 21 at 10:55 AM Oct. 21 at 10:55 AM
Scott J. Bloch, U.S. special counsel, will step down from his position in January, according to a report from the Washington Post.
In 2004, Bloch was put in charge of the Office of Special Counsel, whose mission is to protect the rights of federal workers and ensure that government whistle-blowers are not subjected to reprisals. But Bloch himself became the subject of investigations involving the closing of hundreds of cases allegedly without investigating them and for allegedly retaliating against employees.
In May 2005,
Will teach shelters how to comply with city's human rights ordinance
CHICAGO (AP) | Oct. 21 at 10:12 AM Oct. 21 at 10:12 AM
Homeless shelters across Chicago are getting a crash course in how to better serve members of the gay community.
The Chicago Department of Human Services is conducting four days of mandatory sensitivity training at the Center on Halsted, the city's gay community center.
About 160 people are attending the training, which includes sessions on the barriers faced by members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community and the effects of prejudice, said Lisa Elkuss, communications director for the human services department.
"We're all really very pleased that this is taking place," Elkuss said ...
Elderly gays and lesbians emerging as distinct community
NEW YORK (AP) | Oct. 20 at 1:08 PM Oct. 20 at 1:08 PM
Frank Carter was once a globe-trotting professional dancer; his world is smaller now. He battles multiple health problems, walks with a cane and rarely leaves his compact Manhattan apartment.
As an 86-year-old gay man, with no family nearby and many acquaintances long since dead, he'd seem a likely prospect for isolation.
Instead, he has kindled a deep, five-year friendship with Gigi Stoll, a fashion model-turned-photographer half his age. Stoll helps Carter with medical arrangements, writes to him when she travels overseas, and sat with him for six hours during his most recent hospitalization.
"The other guys in the hospital, no one was coming in ...
Sign for Something delivered letters, petition
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) | Oct. 20 at 10:22 AM Oct. 20 at 10:22 AM
A group of Mormons are hoping to convince the church to stop supporting a ballot initiative to ban same-sex marriage in California.
The group, called Sign for Something, delivered protest letters, bundles of carnations and a petition in support of gay marriage to church headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. The delivery was made by a group of about 40 people who sang hymns as they approached the church's offices. Their delivery was accepted by a church spokeswoman.
One member of the group says many Mormons with gay and lesbian loved ones are torn over the issue.
Officially, the Mormon church is politically neutral and doesn't endo ...
Curriculum would include gay and lesbian 'heroes'
CHICAGO (AP) | Oct. 20 at 10:10 AM Oct. 20 at 10:10 AM
Chicago Public Schools has delayed a vote on a proposal to open a "gay-friendly" high school that will weave gay and lesbian "heroes" into its curriculum.
Chicago Public Schools CEO Arne Duncan said Friday that the school board would see the plan on Nov. 19. The proposal was originally supposed to be considered Wednesday.
Duncan gave preliminary approval for the the Pride Campus of Social Justice High School earlier this month.
The high school be open to all students citywide but would provide a safe, "gay-friendly" atmosphere. It is hoped the school would be a way to combat the high bullying, dropout ...
Activists question decision to list case as manslaughter
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade | Oct. 17 at 4:06 PM Oct. 17 at 4:06 PM
An 18-year-old Washington man charged in a gay man’s beating death told police he punched the man only after the man grabbed his butt and crotch, according to a police affidavit.
The affidavit, filed Thursday in D.C. Superior Court, says Tony Randolph Hunter, 37, of Maryland fell to the ground after being punched, hitting his head on the pavement with such force that a witness heard a “loud thump.”
Police arrested Robert Lee Hannah on Wednesday in northwest Washington. He has been charged with voluntary manslaughter in connection with Hunter’s death last month.
The case prompted nearly 200 people to join Hunter’s friends in a ...
President refused based on 'his beliefs'
COLORADO SPRINGS (AP) | Oct. 17 at 10:30 AM Oct. 17 at 10:30 AM
A gay college group in Colorado Springs is clashing with the school's student president because he refused to approve a funding request, saying it was against his "personal beliefs."
The group representing gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgenger students says the decision by junior David Williams hindered planning for a campus observance of National Coming Out Day this week at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs.
The group, called Spectrum, had gotten approval from the student Senate last month for $2,100. Williams didn't sign or veto the request so it passed after five days but the group says the delay hurt their ability to order ...
Rock Witchu Tour features non-stop hits
By KEVIN NAFF, Washington Blade | Oct. 16 at 2:59 PM Oct. 16 at 2:59 PM
After postponing a string of shows due to illness, Janet Jackson returned in top form Wednesday night to her Rock Witchu Tour at Washington’s Verizon Center.
If she was suffering any lingering effects of the migraines and vertigo that plagued her over the past two weeks, it wasn’t apparent Wednesday night, as Jackson danced her way through nearly two-and-a-half hours of hits and their accompanying energetic, complex choreography.
Opening act LL Cool J was a no-show, but he was forgotten as soon as Jackson came to the stage in a blaze of pyrotechnics and smoke, a diva-worthy entrance if ever there was one. She opened with a medley of Control-era hits ...
Governor's office says law already in place
CHARLESTON (AP) | Oct. 16 at 1:20 PM Oct. 16 at 1:20 PM
As the general election approaches, a Christian evangelical group has issued an ultimatum to Gov. Joe Manchin: call a special session to pass a proposed constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, or face the wrath of voters.
The Family Policy Council of West Virginia told the governor on Oct. 9 that he had until Wednesday to agree to call the Legislature into session. The conservative group cites polling it commissioned of around 500 registered voters that it says found 73 percent supported an amendment defining marriage as a "union of one man and one woman."
"The donors to this organization, as well as my board, are asking -- rather stridently -- t ...
California's largest teacher's union voted to oppose measure with second donation
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) | Oct. 16 at 11:51 AM Oct. 16 at 11:51 AM
California's largest teacher's union has given another $1 million to defeat a Nov. 4 ballot initiative that would ban same-sex marriage in the state.
The contribution recorded Tuesday makes the California Teachers Association the largest institutional donor to the No on 8 campaign. CTA also gave $250,000 in August to Equality for All, a coalition of gay advocacy and civil rights groups opposing Proposition 8.
Union spokeswoman Sandra Jackson says CTA's 800-member policy body voted overwhelmingly to oppose the gay marriage ban. Jackson says the issue concerns educators because "teachers teach the importance of equal rights for all."
Dr. Eliza Bayard has served the org. since 2001
From Washington Blade staff reports | Oct. 16 at 10:26 AM Oct. 16 at 10:26 AM
The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, an organization dedicated to making schools safe for all students, and its national board of directors have named Dr. Eliza Bayard as the organization's new executive director, according to a press release.
“The search committee had the unenviable task of finding a steward to follow in the footsteps of GLSEN’s founder and longtime national leader, Kevin Jennings. In Eliza, we found a leader with the vision, integrity, experience and bold wisdom to lead GLSEN and strengthen our greater national safe schools movement,” said Deborah Dagit, chair of the search committee and Chief Diversity Officer at Merck & Co ...
Gay man killed in Sept. attack near BeBar
By LOU CHIBBARO, JR. | Oct. 15 at 1:30 PM Oct. 15 at 1:30 PM
D.C. police today arrested an 18-year-old District man on a charge of voluntary manslaughter for the murder last month of gay Maryland resident Tony Randolph Hunter, who died Sept. 17, 10 days after police said he was attacked near the gay club BeBar.
Robert Lee Hanna, a resident of Northwest Washington, is being held while awaiting court processing on Thursday in connection with the Hunter murder after being apprehended about 11 a.m. today, police said.
At a news conference this afternoon, D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier and homicide squad Insp. Rodney Parks disclosed that investigators ruled out robbery as well a hate crime as the motive for the murder.
“At ...
N.Y. grants benefits to same-sex couples legally married elsewhere
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) | Oct. 15 at 8:27 AM Oct. 15 at 8:27 AM
A midlevel state appeals court is scheduled to hear arguments Wednesday on whether New York's policy granting benefits to gay couples legally married elsewhere should stand.
In March, Acting State Supreme Court Justice Thomas McNamara upheld the 2007 policy of the Department of Civil Service that extended health benefits to those spouses. He rejected a challenge by four plaintiffs claiming the policy violated New York's Constitution by using public funds to aid then Gov. Eliot Spitzer's political objectives.
Appeal arguments are set before the Appellate Division of State Supreme Court in Albany.
...
Couple on guest list in fete for Italian prime minister
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade | Oct. 14 at 11:59 AM Oct. 14 at 11:59 AM
Vice President Dick Cheney?s lesbian daughter, Mary Cheney, and her domestic partner, Heather Poe, were on the official guest list for a White House state dinner Monday in honor of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.
The guest list released by the White House indicates that Mary Cheney and Poe attended the dinner with Vice President Cheney and his wife, Lynne Cheney, along with the vice president?s other daughter, Elizabeth Cheney.
Although gay activists were likely to be pleased that an out lesbian couple participated in an official White House dinner, some activists might question the way the guest list identified Poe.
The wives or husbands of dozens of U.S. governm ...
Urgency to marry intensified by pro-Prop. 8 fundraising
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) | Oct. 14 at 9:17 AM Oct. 14 at 9:17 AM
Gay couples from around California and the nation are feverishly tying the knot ahead of Election Day to avoid missing out if voters approve a ballot initiative aimed at banning same-sex marriage.
Aaron Twitchell and Orlando Manzo from Austin, Texas, waited two months for an appointment to get a marriage license in San Francisco. When they got to the city clerk's office, the line of people ahead of them was so long they worried they would be late for their own wedding.
"We are so happy California is so progressive they would allow something like this," said Manzo, 33, as his partner of nine years recently watched the clock and held a Tiffany's bag with their platinum rings inside ...
Voters may force convention to rewrite state's constitution
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) | Oct. 11 at 9:28 PM Oct. 11 at 9:28 PM
Now that the Connecticut Supreme Court has ruled same-sex couples have the right to wed, opponents of gay marriage are pinning their hopes on an infrequent ballot question in a longshot bid to block the unions.
Every 20 years, voters can force a convention during which delegates can rewrite the entire constitution. It's a long, painstaking process that could cost millions and, by coincidence, it's on the ballot this November.
"This is our one opportunity for the people to have a voice, for the people to be heard, for them to decide whether marriage will be protected as between a man and a woman," said Peter Wolfgang, executive director of the Family Institute ...
Conn. court legalizes gay marriage
Opponents call for constitutional convention
By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | Oct. 10 at 11:24 AM Oct. 10 at 11:24 AM
The Connecticut Supreme Court ruled last week that same-sex couples have the right to marry under the state constitution and that a civil unions law enacted by the state three years ago fails to provide gay people with the “status and significance” of marriage.
Under the historic 4-3 ruling, Connecticut is poised to join Massachusetts and California as the third state to allow same-sex couples to marry.
The court ruling sharply rebukes arguments by state officials, including Republican Gov. Jodi Rell, that same-sex marriage was not necessary to provide gay couples equal rights and protections under the state’s constitution because the civil unions pro ...
Australian Mitcham scored four perfect 10s on final dive in Beijing
SYDNEY, Australia (AP) | Oct. 9 at 4:35 PM Oct. 9 at 4:35 PM
Australian diver Matthew Mitcham, who won a gold medal at Beijing with a remarkable final dive at the Water Cube, says he is surprised but understands why more athletes have not admitted to being gay.
"I was actually very surprised I was the only 'out' male at the Olympic Games," Mitcham, 20, said in Wednesday's Sydney Morning Herald newspaper.
"It's a little bit sad, I think, because statistically there should be a lot more but, it's each to one's own. I'm not going to pressure anybody else to come out of the closet because it's their own choice. I'm proud to be there ... that lots of other people can look up to."
Mitcham sc ...
Gays targeted in two new bias attacks
Muslim suspects told victims 'faggots' are 'stoned to death' in Middle East
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade | Oct. 9 at 10:39 AM Oct. 9 at 10:39 AM
Two men who identified themselves as Muslims were charged with assaulting a gay man in Georgetown after one of them said gay people are stoned to death in his home country in the Middle East, according to a police report.
A 23-year-old Georgetown University medical student was struck in the face Oct. 3 with a bottle wielded by one of the two men charged in the case, a police source said. The alleged attack occurred at about 3 a.m. along the C&O Canal.
The student was treated and released from Georgetown Uni-versity Hospital.
In a separate incident that unfolded at about 2 a.m. Sept. 27, police arrested an off-duty security guard for allegedly shouting an ...
Employee bound, pistol-whipped in Jan. incident
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade | Oct. 9 at 10:22 AM Oct. 9 at 10:22 AM
D.C. police announced Thursday that a 50-year-old man was indicted in August for assaulting an employee at the Human Rights Campaign’s Action Center and Store near Dupont Circle last January while forcing the employee to turn over money from a safe and cash register.
A statement released by the police Gay & Lesbian Liaison Unit says a D.C. Superior Court Grand Jury indicted Mark Stubblefield of Alexandria, Va., on multiple charges in connection with the incident. They include armed robbery, kidnapping while armed, second-degree burglary while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon (gun), carrying a dangerous weapon (gun), unregistered possession of a firearm, felonio ...
'A great loss to the HIV/AIDS community'
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade | Oct. 9 at 10:12 AM Oct. 9 at 10:12 AM
Gene Copello, executive director of the AIDS Institute, a public policy research and advocacy group, died Tuesday at Inova Alexandria Hospital in Alexandria, Va., from complications associated with kidney disease. He was 49.
Copello has been credited with helping to transform the AIDS Institute into an important national AIDS advocacy organization, with offices in Washington, D.C. and Tampa, Fla.
He recently attended a White House ceremony where President Bush signed a sweeping global AIDS relief bill, which Copello lobbied Congress to pass.
“This is a great loss to the AIDS Institute and the entire HIV/AIDS community, and we will forever miss Gene’s ...
LDS Church is part of pro-Proposition 8 coalition
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) | Oct. 8 at 3:55 PM Oct. 8 at 3:55 PM
California Mormons currently living outside the state are being asked to volunteer for a telephone campaign to help pass a ballot initiative on marriage there.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is part of a coalition of conservative groups backing Proposition 8, which would ban gay marriage in California's constitution.
Church elder L. Whitney Clayton says members could be asked to call friends and family at home in California to encourage their support. The phone campaign would be on an "if-needed" basis and will be tested, but may not be fully implemented.
The organizational effort comes at the request of ...
2 incumbents in tight races; Baldwin, Frank, Polis favored to win
By CHRIS JOHNSON, Washington Blade | Oct. 8 at 9:54 AM Oct. 8 at 9:54 AM
The Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund is touting an unprecedented number of endorsements this year, but many of those candidates are facing significant challenges in their bids for public office.
As of Tuesday, the Victory Fund had backed 100 candidates in this year’s election — more than the 88 candidates it endorsed in 2006 or the 65 it endorsed in 2004.
Denis Dison, a Victory Fund spokesperson, said he expected a few more endorsements in the weeks remaining before Election Day.
He said one reason more openly gay candidates are running is because of victories of other gay people in previous elections.
“When you see that peopl ...
Executive Director Chrysler issued identical letters to candidates in July
From Washington Blade staff reports | Oct. 7 at 2:07 PM Oct. 7 at 2:07 PM
John McCain has responded to a letter written to him by Family Equality Council's Executive Director Jennifer Chrysler in July, according to the organization.
The letter was issued to both candidates and asked questions regarding how their administrations would work to "recognize, respect, protect and celebrate all loving families in the U.S."
Sen. Obama's response can be viewed here. It was received on July 30, 2008.
Sen McCain's response can be viewed
Donations from both sides reach $41.2 million
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) | Oct. 7 at 1:14 PM Oct. 7 at 1:14 PM
Supporters and opponents of a ballot initiative that would outlaw same-sex marriage in California have funneled $41.2 million into the race, more than the combined total spent in the 24 states where similar measures have gone before voters since 2004.
Campaign finance figures show supporters of the gay marriage ban have taken a significant lead in fundraising even though Proposition 8 has lagged in public opinion polls. ProtectMarriage.com reported taking in $25.4 million through Sept. 30 of this year compared to the $15.8 million in donations raised by the main committee opposing the measure.
"It shows there is tremendous gras ...
Deadlock from jury on criteria needed to find city liable
SAN DIEGO (AP) | Oct. 7 at 10:41 AM Oct. 7 at 10:41 AM
A mistrial was declared Monday after a jury could not decide whether to award damages to four firefighters who claimed they were sexually harassed after being forced to participate in a gay Pride parade last year.
The jury deliberated nearly four days before announcing a deadlock on the first of several criteria needed to find the city liable.
Charles LiMandri, the firefighters' attorney, called the mistrial "extremely frustrating." A new trial was set for January.
The lawsuit sought unspecified compensation from the city, and alleged that the fire department retaliated after they publicly criticized their employer. In his closing argument, LiMandri ...
County clerks will use new paperwork starting Nov. 17
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) | Oct. 7 at 10:08 AM Oct. 7 at 10:08 AM
The words "bride" and "groom" will reappear on all marriage license applications issued in California starting next month, state health officials said.
In a notice posted on its Web site, the California Department of Public Health says it is making the change because many couples still wanted the option of identifying themselves in traditional terms.
When sam ...
Says McCain is a 'mimic,' not a maverick
By CHRIS JOHNSON, Washington Blade | Oct. 6 at 1:04 PM Oct. 6 at 1:04 PM
Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) led a chorus of voices that called for change Saturday at the Human Rights Campaign National Dinner in Washington.
Clinton spoke to the event’s approximately 3,000 attendees via satellite from Los Angeles, encouraging them to do “everything they can” to elect Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama and make the election “a great Democratic victory.”
“We are faced with a choice,” she said. “We can take steps toward a better future, towards securing equality and dignity for all Americans —regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity — or we can choose four more ye ...
13 retired judges issued statement Monday
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) | Oct. 6 at 1:02 PM Oct. 6 at 1:02 PM
Three former chief justices of the Arkansas Supreme Court say they're opposing a ballot measure aimed at banning gay and lesbian couples from becoming adoptive or foster parents.
Former Chief Justices W.H. "Dub" Arnold, Jack Holt Jr. and Bradley D. Jesson were among 13 retired judges who issued a statement Monday opposing a proposed initiated act that would ban unmarried couples from adopting children or becoming foster parents.
The judges said the proposal would limit their ability to choose the best home environment for children and said that child placement should be decided on a case-by-case basis.
...
Pretrial conference set for Jan. 5
By JOSHUA LYNSEN, Washington Blade | Oct. 21 at 2:56 PM Oct. 21 at 2:56 PM
WASHINGTON -- A courtroom showdown between the Democratic National Committee and its former gay outreach director, Donald Hitchcock, is likely to occur next year. Hitchcock was fired from his DNC post in 2006, shortly after his domestic partner, Paul Yandura, wrote an open letter to gay Democrats urging them to withhold donations to the party because he felt Dean wasn’t doing enough to combat anti-gay state ballot initiatives.
Hitchcock later filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against Dean and the DNC alleging, among other things, anti-gay discrimination. The DNC has denied the claims. Final efforts at mediation failed in September and a pretrial conference has been set for ...
From Washington Blade staff reports | Oct. 21 at 10:55 AM Oct. 21 at 10:55 AM
Scott J. Bloch, U.S. special counsel, will step down from his position in January, according to a report from the Washington Post.
In 2004, Bloch was put in charge of the Office of Special Counsel, whose mission is to protect the rights of federal workers and ensure that government whistle-blowers are not subjected to reprisals. But Bloch himself became the subject of investigations involving the closing of hundreds of cases allegedly without investigating them and for allegedly retaliating against employees.
In May 2005,
Will teach shelters how to comply with city's human rights ordinance
CHICAGO (AP) | Oct. 21 at 10:12 AM Oct. 21 at 10:12 AM
Homeless shelters across Chicago are getting a crash course in how to better serve members of the gay community.
The Chicago Department of Human Services is conducting four days of mandatory sensitivity training at the Center on Halsted, the city's gay community center.
About 160 people are attending the training, which includes sessions on the barriers faced by members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community and the effects of prejudice, said Lisa Elkuss, communications director for the human services department.
"We're all really very pleased that this is taking place," Elkuss said ...
Elderly gays and lesbians emerging as distinct community
NEW YORK (AP) | Oct. 20 at 1:08 PM Oct. 20 at 1:08 PM
Frank Carter was once a globe-trotting professional dancer; his world is smaller now. He battles multiple health problems, walks with a cane and rarely leaves his compact Manhattan apartment.
As an 86-year-old gay man, with no family nearby and many acquaintances long since dead, he'd seem a likely prospect for isolation.
Instead, he has kindled a deep, five-year friendship with Gigi Stoll, a fashion model-turned-photographer half his age. Stoll helps Carter with medical arrangements, writes to him when she travels overseas, and sat with him for six hours during his most recent hospitalization.
"The other guys in the hospital, no one was coming in ...
Sign for Something delivered letters, petition
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) | Oct. 20 at 10:22 AM Oct. 20 at 10:22 AM
A group of Mormons are hoping to convince the church to stop supporting a ballot initiative to ban same-sex marriage in California.
The group, called Sign for Something, delivered protest letters, bundles of carnations and a petition in support of gay marriage to church headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. The delivery was made by a group of about 40 people who sang hymns as they approached the church's offices. Their delivery was accepted by a church spokeswoman.
One member of the group says many Mormons with gay and lesbian loved ones are torn over the issue.
Officially, the Mormon church is politically neutral and doesn't endo ...
Curriculum would include gay and lesbian 'heroes'
CHICAGO (AP) | Oct. 20 at 10:10 AM Oct. 20 at 10:10 AM
Chicago Public Schools has delayed a vote on a proposal to open a "gay-friendly" high school that will weave gay and lesbian "heroes" into its curriculum.
Chicago Public Schools CEO Arne Duncan said Friday that the school board would see the plan on Nov. 19. The proposal was originally supposed to be considered Wednesday.
Duncan gave preliminary approval for the the Pride Campus of Social Justice High School earlier this month.
The high school be open to all students citywide but would provide a safe, "gay-friendly" atmosphere. It is hoped the school would be a way to combat the high bullying, dropout ...
Former legislative editor claims she was fired over transition
By MATT SCHAFER, Southern Voice | Oct. 17 at 6:11 PM Oct. 17 at 6:11 PM
Three state lawmakers have asked a federal judge to dismiss a discrimination lawsuit filed against them by a former employee who alleges she was fired after announcing her gender transition.
Vandiver Elizabeth Glenn claims she was fired from her job as a legislative editor last year because of her transition from male to female. A lawsuit filed this summer named Speaker of the House Glenn Richardson (R-Hiram), Senate President Pro-Tempore Eric Johnson (R-Savannah), Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, lawyer Sewell Brumby and Robyn Underwood, the state’s legislative financial officer.
Cole Thaler serves as transgender rights attorney for Lambda Legal, which is representi ...
Activists question decision to list case as manslaughter
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade | Oct. 17 at 4:06 PM Oct. 17 at 4:06 PM
An 18-year-old Washington man charged in a gay man’s beating death told police he punched the man only after the man grabbed his butt and crotch, according to a police affidavit.
The affidavit, filed Thursday in D.C. Superior Court, says Tony Randolph Hunter, 37, of Maryland fell to the ground after being punched, hitting his head on the pavement with such force that a witness heard a “loud thump.”
Police arrested Robert Lee Hannah on Wednesday in northwest Washington. He has been charged with voluntary manslaughter in connection with Hunter’s death last month.
The case prompted nearly 200 people to join Hunter’s friends in a ...
President refused based on 'his beliefs'
COLORADO SPRINGS (AP) | Oct. 17 at 10:30 AM Oct. 17 at 10:30 AM
A gay college group in Colorado Springs is clashing with the school's student president because he refused to approve a funding request, saying it was against his "personal beliefs."
The group representing gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgenger students says the decision by junior David Williams hindered planning for a campus observance of National Coming Out Day this week at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs.
The group, called Spectrum, had gotten approval from the student Senate last month for $2,100. Williams didn't sign or veto the request so it passed after five days but the group says the delay hurt their ability to order ...
Gay group works to defeat judge who denied lesbian adoption
By MATT SCHAFER, Southern Voice | Oct. 16 at 5:18 PM Oct. 16 at 5:18 PM
Only eight of 21 judicial candidates who sought the backing of Georgia Equality were successful when the gay political group announced its endorsements today.
Among the races Georgia Equality hopes to influence are the re-election of a DeKalb County Superior Court judge who granted the county's first known joint gay adoption, and an Okmulgee Judicial Circuit Superior Court judge who denied a lesbian's request to adopt the child she had been raising for months.
DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Linda Hunter allowed Rob and Clay Calhoun to jointly adopt their two children, Rainey and Jimmy, without the cumbersome process of having one father adopt first, followed by th ...
Rock Witchu Tour features non-stop hits
By KEVIN NAFF, Washington Blade | Oct. 16 at 2:59 PM Oct. 16 at 2:59 PM
After postponing a string of shows due to illness, Janet Jackson returned in top form Wednesday night to her Rock Witchu Tour at Washington’s Verizon Center.
If she was suffering any lingering effects of the migraines and vertigo that plagued her over the past two weeks, it wasn’t apparent Wednesday night, as Jackson danced her way through nearly two-and-a-half hours of hits and their accompanying energetic, complex choreography.
Opening act LL Cool J was a no-show, but he was forgotten as soon as Jackson came to the stage in a blaze of pyrotechnics and smoke, a diva-worthy entrance if ever there was one. She opened with a medley of Control-era hits ...
Governor's office says law already in place
CHARLESTON (AP) | Oct. 16 at 1:20 PM Oct. 16 at 1:20 PM
As the general election approaches, a Christian evangelical group has issued an ultimatum to Gov. Joe Manchin: call a special session to pass a proposed constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, or face the wrath of voters.
The Family Policy Council of West Virginia told the governor on Oct. 9 that he had until Wednesday to agree to call the Legislature into session. The conservative group cites polling it commissioned of around 500 registered voters that it says found 73 percent supported an amendment defining marriage as a "union of one man and one woman."
"The donors to this organization, as well as my board, are asking -- rather stridently -- t ...
California's largest teacher's union voted to oppose measure with second donation
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) | Oct. 16 at 11:51 AM Oct. 16 at 11:51 AM
California's largest teacher's union has given another $1 million to defeat a Nov. 4 ballot initiative that would ban same-sex marriage in the state.
The contribution recorded Tuesday makes the California Teachers Association the largest institutional donor to the No on 8 campaign. CTA also gave $250,000 in August to Equality for All, a coalition of gay advocacy and civil rights groups opposing Proposition 8.
Union spokeswoman Sandra Jackson says CTA's 800-member policy body voted overwhelmingly to oppose the gay marriage ban. Jackson says the issue concerns educators because "teachers teach the importance of equal rights for all."
Soulforce, Spelman work to increase gay visibility
Gay religious group quietly meets with Atlanta colleges
By MATT SCHAFER, Southern Voice | Oct. 16 at 10:59 AM Oct. 16 at 10:59 AM
Gay students say no one cares if you’re queer at Spelman College so long as you don’t show any affection or remind others you’re gay in any way.
“It’s okay if we’re here so long as we’re silent,” said Jeshawna Wholley, president of the university’s gay organization, Afrekete.
“The atmosphere is kind of up in the air at the time because of a number of people aren’t out for obvious, social reasons,” Wholley, a junior psychology major, added.
Although started in the basement of a Baptist church, Spelman — a private, historically black women’s college — is not a Christian school. ...
Riley hopes to be Ga.'s first openly gay state senator
Challenges GOP incumbent in rural district near Athens
By MATT SCHAFER, Southern Voice | Oct. 16 at 10:51 AM Oct. 16 at 10:51 AM
Tim Riley could make history on Nov. 4, but that hasn’t been a focus of his campaign.
A candidate for the District 47 seat in the Georgia Senate, Riley has been quietly running as an openly gay man and said it hasn’t been an issue in his largely rural district. Senate District 47 includes half of Athens/Clarke County and large swaths of the surrounding countryside, including the small towns of Jackson and Madison.
“To be honest with you, no one is fighting me on gay issues, and I think finally, finally we are opening up,” Riley said. “I’m just very hopeful that the tide is changing slowly but surely.”
If ...
Dr. Eliza Bayard has served the org. since 2001
From Washington Blade staff reports | Oct. 16 at 10:26 AM Oct. 16 at 10:26 AM
The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, an organization dedicated to making schools safe for all students, and its national board of directors have named Dr. Eliza Bayard as the organization's new executive director, according to a press release.
“The search committee had the unenviable task of finding a steward to follow in the footsteps of GLSEN’s founder and longtime national leader, Kevin Jennings. In Eliza, we found a leader with the vision, integrity, experience and bold wisdom to lead GLSEN and strengthen our greater national safe schools movement,” said Deborah Dagit, chair of the search committee and Chief Diversity Officer at Merck & Co ...
N.Y. grants benefits to same-sex couples legally married elsewhere
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) | Oct. 15 at 8:27 AM Oct. 15 at 8:27 AM
A midlevel state appeals court is scheduled to hear arguments Wednesday on whether New York's policy granting benefits to gay couples legally married elsewhere should stand.
In March, Acting State Supreme Court Justice Thomas McNamara upheld the 2007 policy of the Department of Civil Service that extended health benefits to those spouses. He rejected a challenge by four plaintiffs claiming the policy violated New York's Constitution by using public funds to aid then Gov. Eliot Spitzer's political objectives.
Appeal arguments are set before the Appellate Division of State Supreme Court in Albany.
...
Couple on guest list in fete for Italian prime minister
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade | Oct. 14 at 11:59 AM Oct. 14 at 11:59 AM
Vice President Dick Cheney?s lesbian daughter, Mary Cheney, and her domestic partner, Heather Poe, were on the official guest list for a White House state dinner Monday in honor of Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.
The guest list released by the White House indicates that Mary Cheney and Poe attended the dinner with Vice President Cheney and his wife, Lynne Cheney, along with the vice president?s other daughter, Elizabeth Cheney.
Although gay activists were likely to be pleased that an out lesbian couple participated in an official White House dinner, some activists might question the way the guest list identified Poe.
The wives or husbands of dozens of U.S. governm ...
Urgency to marry intensified by pro-Prop. 8 fundraising
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) | Oct. 14 at 9:17 AM Oct. 14 at 9:17 AM
Gay couples from around California and the nation are feverishly tying the knot ahead of Election Day to avoid missing out if voters approve a ballot initiative aimed at banning same-sex marriage.
Aaron Twitchell and Orlando Manzo from Austin, Texas, waited two months for an appointment to get a marriage license in San Francisco. When they got to the city clerk's office, the line of people ahead of them was so long they worried they would be late for their own wedding.
"We are so happy California is so progressive they would allow something like this," said Manzo, 33, as his partner of nine years recently watched the clock and held a Tiffany's bag with their platinum rings inside ...
Voters may force convention to rewrite state's constitution
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) | Oct. 11 at 9:28 PM Oct. 11 at 9:28 PM
Now that the Connecticut Supreme Court has ruled same-sex couples have the right to wed, opponents of gay marriage are pinning their hopes on an infrequent ballot question in a longshot bid to block the unions.
Every 20 years, voters can force a convention during which delegates can rewrite the entire constitution. It's a long, painstaking process that could cost millions and, by coincidence, it's on the ballot this November.
"This is our one opportunity for the people to have a voice, for the people to be heard, for them to decide whether marriage will be protected as between a man and a woman," said Peter Wolfgang, executive director of the Family Institute ...
Conn. court legalizes gay marriage
Opponents call for constitutional convention
By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | Oct. 10 at 11:24 AM Oct. 10 at 11:24 AM
The Connecticut Supreme Court ruled last week that same-sex couples have the right to marry under the state constitution and that a civil unions law enacted by the state three years ago fails to provide gay people with the “status and significance” of marriage.
Under the historic 4-3 ruling, Connecticut is poised to join Massachusetts and California as the third state to allow same-sex couples to marry.
The court ruling sharply rebukes arguments by state officials, including Republican Gov. Jodi Rell, that same-sex marriage was not necessary to provide gay couples equal rights and protections under the state’s constitution because the civil unions pro ...
Australian Mitcham scored four perfect 10s on final dive in Beijing
SYDNEY, Australia (AP) | Oct. 9 at 4:35 PM Oct. 9 at 4:35 PM
Australian diver Matthew Mitcham, who won a gold medal at Beijing with a remarkable final dive at the Water Cube, says he is surprised but understands why more athletes have not admitted to being gay.
"I was actually very surprised I was the only 'out' male at the Olympic Games," Mitcham, 20, said in Wednesday's Sydney Morning Herald newspaper.
"It's a little bit sad, I think, because statistically there should be a lot more but, it's each to one's own. I'm not going to pressure anybody else to come out of the closet because it's their own choice. I'm proud to be there ... that lots of other people can look up to."
Mitcham sc ...
Gays targeted in two new bias attacks
Muslim suspects told victims 'faggots' are 'stoned to death' in Middle East
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade | Oct. 9 at 10:39 AM Oct. 9 at 10:39 AM
Two men who identified themselves as Muslims were charged with assaulting a gay man in Georgetown after one of them said gay people are stoned to death in his home country in the Middle East, according to a police report.
A 23-year-old Georgetown University medical student was struck in the face Oct. 3 with a bottle wielded by one of the two men charged in the case, a police source said. The alleged attack occurred at about 3 a.m. along the C&O Canal.
The student was treated and released from Georgetown Uni-versity Hospital.
In a separate incident that unfolded at about 2 a.m. Sept. 27, police arrested an off-duty security guard for allegedly shouting an ...
'A great loss to the HIV/AIDS community'
By LOU CHIBBARO JR, Washington Blade | Oct. 9 at 10:12 AM Oct. 9 at 10:12 AM
Gene Copello, executive director of the AIDS Institute, a public policy research and advocacy group, died Tuesday at Inova Alexandria Hospital in Alexandria, Va., from complications associated with kidney disease. He was 49.
Copello has been credited with helping to transform the AIDS Institute into an important national AIDS advocacy organization, with offices in Washington, D.C. and Tampa, Fla.
He recently attended a White House ceremony where President Bush signed a sweeping global AIDS relief bill, which Copello lobbied Congress to pass.
“This is a great loss to the AIDS Institute and the entire HIV/AIDS community, and we will forever miss Gene’s ...
LDS Church is part of pro-Proposition 8 coalition
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) | Oct. 8 at 3:55 PM Oct. 8 at 3:55 PM
California Mormons currently living outside the state are being asked to volunteer for a telephone campaign to help pass a ballot initiative on marriage there.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is part of a coalition of conservative groups backing Proposition 8, which would ban gay marriage in California's constitution.
Church elder L. Whitney Clayton says members could be asked to call friends and family at home in California to encourage their support. The phone campaign would be on an "if-needed" basis and will be tested, but may not be fully implemented.
The organizational effort comes at the request of ...
New leaders say Atlanta gay film fest will return sometime next year
By MIKE FLEMING, Southern Voice | Oct. 8 at 11:09 AM Oct. 8 at 11:09 AM
An Oct. 3 press release confirms again that IMAGE Film & Video released Out on Film, Atlanta's gay and lesbian film festival, to a new group that's been in control of the event since May. It also states the new board recently voted to decline IMAGE's offer to help with resources and guidance, and formed its own entity, Out on Film, Inc.
What the release doesn't say is that the new organization will not produce a festival in 2008. Out on Film is traditionally held at the end of October or in early November. Board member Thomas Ryan confirmed in an interview Tuesday that the group is looking to hold a four-day gay film festival in Spring 2009, but dates are not yet set.
& ...
2 incumbents in tight races; Baldwin, Frank, Polis favored to win
By CHRIS JOHNSON, Washington Blade | Oct. 8 at 9:54 AM Oct. 8 at 9:54 AM
The Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund is touting an unprecedented number of endorsements this year, but many of those candidates are facing significant challenges in their bids for public office.
As of Tuesday, the Victory Fund had backed 100 candidates in this year’s election — more than the 88 candidates it endorsed in 2006 or the 65 it endorsed in 2004.
Denis Dison, a Victory Fund spokesperson, said he expected a few more endorsements in the weeks remaining before Election Day.
He said one reason more openly gay candidates are running is because of victories of other gay people in previous elections.
“When you see that peopl ...
Gay political group backs 11 candidates for state legislature
By MATT SCHAFER | Oct. 7 at 2:47 PM Oct. 7 at 2:47 PM
Eleven candidates for the state legislature — eight incumbents and three challengers — received Georgia Equality’s endorsement Tuesday.
The list released by the statewide gay political group includes two Republicans, Rep. Jill Chambers (R-Atlanta) and Rep. Mike Jacobs (R-Atlanta); Rep. Alisha Morgan (D-Austell), who spoke passionately from the House floor against the 2004 constitutional amendment banning gay marriage; and Senate Democratic Whip, Sen. David Adelman (D-Atlanta).
Incumbents
Senate
District 42: Sen. David Adelman (D-Atlanta)
House
District 39: Rep. Alisha Morgan (D-Austell)
District 4 ...
Executive Director Chrysler issued identical letters to candidates in July
From Washington Blade staff reports | Oct. 7 at 2:07 PM Oct. 7 at 2:07 PM
John McCain has responded to a letter written to him by Family Equality Council's Executive Director Jennifer Chrysler in July, according to the organization.
The letter was issued to both candidates and asked questions regarding how their administrations would work to "recognize, respect, protect and celebrate all loving families in the U.S."
Sen. Obama's response can be viewed here. It was received on July 30, 2008.
Sen McCain's response can be viewed
Donations from both sides reach $41.2 million
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) | Oct. 7 at 1:14 PM Oct. 7 at 1:14 PM
Supporters and opponents of a ballot initiative that would outlaw same-sex marriage in California have funneled $41.2 million into the race, more than the combined total spent in the 24 states where similar measures have gone before voters since 2004.
Campaign finance figures show supporters of the gay marriage ban have taken a significant lead in fundraising even though Proposition 8 has lagged in public opinion polls. ProtectMarriage.com reported taking in $25.4 million through Sept. 30 of this year compared to the $15.8 million in donations raised by the main committee opposing the measure.
"It shows there is tremendous gras ...
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