The Herland Voice : v.11: no.2(1994)
- Title
- The Herland Voice : v.11: no.2(1994)
- Description
- The Herland Voice is the monthly publication of Herland Sister Resources, a womanist organization with a strong lesbian focus based in Oklahoma City.
- Date Issued
- 1994-02
- Rights
- All rights reserved by Herland Sister Resources. Contact UCO Archives & Special Collections for the permission policy on the use, reproduction or distribution of these materials.
- Is Part Of
- Herland Voice
- Creator
- Herland Sister Resources
- Date
- 2017-09-02T17:03:19Z
- Date Available
- 2017-09-02T17:03:19Z
- Subject
- Oklahoma
- Type
- application/pdf
- extracted text
-
da~HERLAND ~
ICE
February, 1994
CAMP SISTER
SPIRIT
NOTED ATTORNEY
TO SPEAK
Sarah D. Carrigan
There are a great many stories which need to be told about
the women in Ovett, Mississippi: Brenda and Wanda Henson.
Each has a life story of courage and inspiration, battling former
husbands and family for their children, escaping abusive
marriages, finding themsel vesand each other in Mississippi ten ,
years ago, beginning a life together dedicated to helping any
and all persons in need, battling for civil rights both at home and
abroad. The list goes on. This is the story of my encounter with
the Hensons.
Currently the Hensons are focused on getting Camp Sister
Spirit, Inc. up and running. Seven months ago they bought 120
acres of Mississippi woodland outside Hattiesburg to found a
retreat dedicated to providing safe space for women to come
learn about themselves and each other. They intend the acreage
to be used to battle all forms of oppression through education.
In November of 1993 some of the local people began a
cruel campaign of terroristic threatening activity to remove the
Hensons from the community. Why? Because the work they
propose to do threatens the southern racist patriarchal way of
life endemic to Mississippi and the rest of the South. The
community folk claim that because the Hensons are a lesbian
couple, the women and children of the community are not safe.
But when faced with life altering change, aren' t the lives and
purity of women and children always held as precious justification for assault, murder and mayhem? After all, the weak
women and children must be protected from any changes which
might actually improve their lives. Upon learning of the
activities going on, the armed ''hunters'' found trespassing on
the Henson' s land, the life-threatening phone calls, the bus
loads of children driven by the property on their way to school
and encouraged to jeer and taunt the hatreds of their elders, the
numerous property signs tom down and destroyed, and other
ugly acts and crimes, I felt compelled to do what I could to assist
these women in this true life and death struggle.
January 3rd, 1994. I drove from Lexington, KY to Camp
Sister Spirit, 20 miles outside Ellisville, Mississippi. I had
intended to attend a ''town meeting'' planned for January 4th,
but when I called that morning and spoke with Wanda, I learned
it had been rescheduled for that evening. I expected the drive
to take at least ten hours, not counting time for stops. I wasn't
certain I'd arrive on time, but I'd try. (continued page 4)
Volwne 11 Nwnber 2
Ruthann Robson, author of Lesbian (Out)Law: Survival
Under the Rule of Law and professor of law at the City
University of New York (CUNY) School of Law, will be
speaking at the University of Oklahoma on February 17-19,
1994. She will speak on Thursday, February 17, 1994, at 7:30
P.M. in the Meachem Auditorium of the Oklahoma Memorial
Union on the OU campus. Her presentation entitled, ·'Lesbians
in Life, Law and Literature,'' will discuss some of the legal and
literary problems in contemporary lesbian lives. On Saturday,
February 19, Robson will read from her fiction work at Herland
Sister Resources at 6:30 P.M.
Robson is recognized as one of "the nation's foremost
Supreme Court scholars," according the Advocate: The National Gay and Lesbian Newsmagazine and "the leading
authority on lesbians and law,'' according to the Village Voice.
Lesbian (Out )Law is a groundbreaking and unique work that
has garnered wide attention in lesbian, lesbian/gay/bi and
feminist publications as well as from legal scholars in legal
journals, textbooks, and classrooms across the United States
and Canada.
Robson is also the author of two critically acclaimed
collections of fiction, Eye ofa Hurricane (1989), recipient of the
prestigious annual Ferro-Grumley Award for "outstanding
fiction on lesbian life," and Cecile, a series of inter-related
short stories of "first rate women' s writing" about lesbians
·'surviving in occupied territory'' that nevertheless• 'insists on
its right to humor, sex, politics, and academic theory." [OffOur
Backs, Booklist, Women's Review cif Books] (Continued page 2)
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2312 N.W. 39, OKC, OK 73112
LESBIAN WRITERS FUND
RUTHANN ROBSON
ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS FOR
(continued from page 1)
1994
AWARDS
The Lesbian Writers Fund will make five awards of
$11,000 each to lesbian writers in June 1994. Now in its fourth
year, the Lesbian Writers Fund was established by the Astraea
National Lesbian Action Foundation to support the work of
emerging lesbian writers of fiction and poetry.
The deadline for applications for the awards is March 8,
1994. Complete guidelines and the application form can be
obtained by writing the Astraea National Lesbian Action
Foundation, Attn: Lesbian Writers Fund, 666Broadway, Suite
520, New York, NY 10012.
Additionally, the Sappho Award of Distinction, a grant of
$5,000 will be given to an established writer. The Sappho
award winners for 1992 and 1993 were Audre Lorde and
Adrienne Rich. There is no application process f or this award . .
Astraea is the first nationwide lesbian foundation. Astraea
was begun in 1966 by a multi-racial, multi-cultural group of
feminist activists to empower women through financial and
organizational support. In recognition of the contributions and
needs oflesbians, Astraea became the National Lesbian Action
Foundation in 1990.
The Lesbian Writers Fund has been made possible by
the generous support of its founding donor, Joan Drury, a
lesbian feminist philanthropist from Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The Fund is seeking additional contributions to expand the
nwnber and kinds of awanls to be made in future years.
D
0
ACLU CHALLENGE TO SODOMY LAW
If you are a lesbian and you wish to join in
a legal action challenging the constitutionality of the Oklahoma state sodomy, please
contact the American Civil Liberties Union of
Oklahoma at (405)524-8511 or write 1441
Classen Blvd. #318, Oklahoma City, OK
73106-6609. Plaintiffs' attorneys Mark
Henricksen, Esq., Jane Eulberg, Esq., Shirley
Wiegand, Esq. You have nothing to lose but
your chains.
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2 Her/and Voice February, 1994
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Robson's newest work is a forthcoming novel
about a lesbian lawyer who represents lesbian mothers, including lesbian mothers accused of murder. She
will read from the forthcoming novel at her Herland
appearance.
The OU Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Association
and the OU Speakers Bureau are sponsors for Robson's
Oklahoma visit. Special provisions can and will be
made for those who have a physical impairment.
Contact the OUGLBA at 325-4452 for further information.
o
Praise for the fiction of
Ruthann Robson
· · Eye of A Hurricane
winner of the 1990 Ferro-Grumley
Award for outstanding lesbian fiction
· "a strong and fresh contribution to
women's literature."
-Marge Piercy in Women's
Review of Books
"Robson is a master of her
craft .... Place, character, story-line
language all meld into wholes as rare
as perfect shells found along the tide
line"
-Bay Windows
· "The least of these stories
entertains and charms us; the best of
them broadens our vision."
-Sojourner
Cecile
. · "Robson's writing is spare and
graceful, with wonderfully original
sparks of sarcasm and wit sprinkled
liberally throughout."
-Publishers Weekly
· "This is fiction that insists on its
right to humor, sex, politics, academic
theory ... ."
- Valerie Miner in Women's
Review of Books
"fine writing - by far the very best I
have read in a book in which lesbians
are the main characters in a long
time."
- Rebecca Brown in Belles
Lettres
LESBIANS UNDER ATTACK IN
RURAL MISSISSIPPI: A FIRST
HAND ACCOUNT
by John Gutierrez
ELLISVILLE, MS-On January 3, over 400 residents of
Jones County, Mississippi, gathered for the second time in the
Ellisville courthouse to discuss plans to run lesbian couple
Wanda and Brenda Henson and their feminist educational
retreat, Camp Sister Spirit, out of the two-store town of Ovett.
I joined eight other supporters of the Hensons from south
Mississippi in attending the meeting. No supporters of Sister
Spirit spoke at the meeting; rather, we served merely as
observers. For this Mississippi native, the meeting and its
aftermath were like a journey back to a time when the National
Guard was needed to keep citizens of Little Rdck from attack-' '
ing young African-American girls on their way to school and
when Mississippi preachers denounced Elvis for corrupting
young minds.
The Hensons are renovating a 120-acre pig farm to use as
a retreat and meeting space for their own feminist educational
organization and other like-minded groups. The goals of Camp
Sister Spirit include feeding and clothing the poor, teaching
literacy, aiding displaced homemakers, and providing education on racism, sexism, homohobia, and other social issues.
Residents of Ovett fear the Hensons will recruit local women
to become lesbians and that their community will become a
"hotbed of lesbianism." For weeks, the Hensons have been
harassed by phone calls threatening death and gunshots on
their property. At the meeting, the opposition group announced
it will file a lawsuit in order to protect the property values of the
surrounding area which it claims are threatened by the Hen sons'
presence.
The meeting itself consisted primarily of canned fundamentalist Christian rhetoric and generous doses of distorted and
false information about gay men and lesbians. Part of the
Christian right propaganda film The Gay Agenda, featuring
carefully selected scenes from the 1993 March on Washington,
was shown, and no fewer than three Baptist ministers led the
crowd in prayer. Frequent shouts of "Amen" and "Hallelujah"
rose throughout the evening, adding to the already distinct
feeling of a religious revival. The ministers prayed for the
power to drive the 'evil reprobates' out and thereby protect such
a morally upright community from becoming a "hub of homosexual activity." At the meeting's end, opposition leader James
Hendry implored the crowd to contribute to a fund being
collected to fight the Hensons.
Ultimately, each speaker used the occasion to whip the
crowd into a hostile mob and to stir emotions in order to
persuade locals that two doctoral candidates who plan to feed
the poor and teach the illiterate are a serious threat to the health
and morals of the community. Rev. Ken Fairly of Mount
Carmel Baptist Church in Hattiesburg, went so far as to
specifically encourage local citizens to attack Camp Sister
Spirit. He said, •'When I heard that rednecks were attacking
Camp Sister Spirit, I was disappointed because I think they
should be attacked by all kinds of necks: black necks, white
necks .... "
A large number of local and national media representatives
attended, including Leslie Stahl of the television newsmagazine
20/20, and reporters from National Public Radio and The
Village Voice. The leaders of the meeting were painfully aware
of this heavy media presence. Those speaking repeatedly
referred to the media's portrayal of the townspeople as a violent
lynch mob. The crowd was cautioned to be on their best
behavior and to remember that they were a community of lawabiding Christians.
The meeting seemed carefully staged to stress the town's
religious and moral concerns and downplay the tendency
towards bigotry and violence. During the screening of The Gay
Agenda, many of the women dramatically buried their heads in
their hands and wept or pretended to weep. There were,
however, revealing cracks in their righteous facade--moments
the media weren' t supposed to see. Some in the courthouse
cringed when a speaker made reference to the locai "colored"
folks. A more sinister slip was one man's suggestion that, due
to the media's presence, they not discuss their actual plans at
that time. The gaffe visibly disconcerted Hendry, who was
leading the meeting, and he conspicuously ignored the comment.
It became apparent after the meeting that many people
were not going to heed Hendry's call for lawful "Christian"
behavior. As the crowd dispersed, some recognized gay men
Todd Emerson and Luis Cintron from their recent appearance
on an Oprah Winfrey Show which focused on the Ovett-Sister
Spirit issue. Emerson and Cintron were part of our small group
of Sister Spirit supporters. Several men surrounded us, taunting
with "faggots," "queers," "sinners" and asking if we "knew
Jesus.'' One man was held back from physically attacking us
and finally the police parted the crowd for us to exit. As we
made our way out, the increasingly unruly mob waved Bibles,
pushed at us, and threatened that we "better get out." Finally,
the police escorted us to the county line.
The importance of the Hensons' fight cannot be underestimated as it has implications for gay men and lesbians living
in small towns and rural areas across the South and across the
country. I can think of no current gay or lesbian effort tougher
than waging a pitched battle against fundamentalist Southern
Baptists in rural Mississippi. This fight is far from mere politics
or ideology; it is truly a life or death struggle for liberty. In order
to survive, Camp Sister Spirit needs the support of gay men and
lesbians everywhere. To offer your support, call the Hensons,
at ()() 1/344-1411.
Many prayers were said at the meeting, all ill a most unChristlike spirit ofhostility. I would like to offer a prayer of my
own for the people of Jones County. I pray that they will learn
to live without fear and hatred. I pray that they will educate
themselves and not blindly accept the teachings of men motivated by prejudice and greed. And finally, I pray that they may
come to know peace and compassion and that they may develop
an appreciation for the diversity of human life. Amen.
0
Her/and Voice February, 1994
3
CAMP SISTER SPIRIT
(continued from page 1)
I drove into Ellisville at 8:30 central time (9:30 Lexington
time). Themeetinghadbegunat7P.M .. Asldrovebythetown
hall I saw 5 or 6 police cars parked and 2 cruising the streets.
A few people were milling about. I was alone in a car with a
Kentucky license plate: I drove on by.
I was feeling the paranoia of entering a
warzone and being identified as the
enemy.
On the south end of town I stopped at a gas station to call
the Hensons. Wanda had told me that morning to call when I
got to Ellisville as the entry gate to the property would be
locked and they had been escorting all visitors on and off the
grounds. She gave me directions one more time and I set off
on the final 20 mile leg of my journey. Even though it was pitch ·
dark I was feeling conspicuous in my aquamarine Toyota
Paseo. Most all the vehicles I had seen in town were older
model beat-up American cars and trucks. I drove slowly to
watch for the turns. About 8 miles out of town a fast moving
car came up from behind. I slowed to about 40 m.p.h. to allow
it to pass. It didn't. Rather, it got right up on my rear and stayed
there for about three miles, no matter·what my speed. When
it finally passed I started to feel some relief until I realized it
was staying about three quarters of a mile ahead of me; maybe
watching, maybe not. I was feeling the paranoia of entering a
warzone and being identified as the enemy.
I found the first turn, then the second without seeing any
other traffic. I was moving very slowly to watch for the gate
when I saw the headlights and a white gravel drive: I had
arrived and there were my escorts. One of the women jumped
out of the truck: "Kentucky?" "Yeah, I'm Sarah." "Drive on
in.We'll close the gate and follow." I was on a one-lane gravel
path, about a half-mile long. It had been raining for several
days in Mississippi and the red mud was deep. I saw another
. truck prominently parked at what appeared to be a lookout
point, but learned later it was simply stuck in the mud. I drove
on up to the two main buildings and parked near 8-10 other cars
and several campers. My escorts introduced themeselves and
took me "inside."
There are two buildings under construction/renovation.
The kitchen area of the main building has a dirt floor, two walls
of plastic sheeting, a third of plywood, while the fourth is open.
A wood stove made not long before from a 50 gallon drum
stands in the entry where 12 women were crowded around
trying to stay warm. There is no other heat source here. Some
were college students from Hattiesburg, some friends of the
Hensons, some members of the New Orleans chapter of the
Lesbian Avengers. All were there to protect, help and support
Camp Sister Spirit. I was introduced to Brenda, then Wanda,
then "everyone else."
First I had to call Alex back in Kentucky to let her know
I'd arrived safely. Then these various women asked about my
drive ( 12 hours) and why I had come all the way from Kentucky
4 Her/and Voice February, 1994
· (how could I not?). One student from California asked "Is
Kentucky part of the South?" Others asked "Isn't Kentucky
a lot more progressive than here?'' What could I say to that?
There were several other women who had arrived just that
day, so Wanda got up and directed us to please sign the release
forms their lawyer was insistent about. Essentially I was
indicating in writing that I knew where I was and willingly had
entered a potentially dangerous situation. Then Wanda told us
about some of the most recent events (the last death threat had
come on Christmas Eve) and talked about safety (walk in
groups at all times) and self-defense (if you have a gun keep it
hidden. Pull it out only if you intend to use it immediately.)
This is a war zone.
Later on others arrived who had attended the town meeting.
They described it as a cross between a revival and preparation
for a lynching. The townsfolk had been unable thus far to find
any legal means of removing the Hensons from their property;
they were angry and stymied. They called for a defense fund
to be established to prepare for legal battle with the Hensons.
The county sheriff (an elected official sworn to protect all
citizens) assisted in passing the hat. Someone put in a hundred
dollar bill: "hallelujah, praise the lord, amen." The 11 P.M.
news had a briefreport and video clip from the meeting. A news
crew from ABC's 20/20 was there and would be coming to the
camp the following day to interview the Hensons.
Wanda, Brenda, and several other women went to bed.
The rest stayed up, some all night, to stand guard. They spoke
in low tones and with great tension, fully expecting something
to happen. The dog barked a few times and several women
walked out a short ways to check each time. Around 1 A.M. I
finally got my gear from the car and prepared for bed. The
sleeping area was upstairs: a half-finished room with plastic
sheeting hung to divide it kept the warmth in. Bare mattresses
with blankets and sleeping bags were strewn about the floor. I
took one that appeared unclaimed. Then I had to go out to the
other building for bathroom preparations: no running water yet
in the main facility. Back in the sleeping room a couple of
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women snuggled under four or five blankets stirred and began
asking questions, so I sat on their mattresses and talked a long
time. They had met on a previous visit to the camp andhad since
been dating: new love arising out of age old hatreds. I finally
crawled into my sleeping bag (many thanks to Alex who
reminded me to take it!) and pulled an extra blanket across.
Surprisingly enough, I fell asleep rather quickly. Tense as I
was, it had been an exhausting day and I was drained both
physically and emotionally.
The next morning I awoke to the sounds of people milling
about below me. I made my way to the bathroom through a
crowd of new people: photographers, reporters, crews from
various TV stations. The media had been arriving nearly every
morning since the Oprah show two weeks before. A few women
were putting up walls and electrical lines, but many (including
me) were wandering the grounds, waiting for something to
happen. This day Lynn Sherr from 20/20 would arrive to
interview Brenda and Wanda, and the crew was there early to
setup and prepare the camp in what they thought would be a
more realistic setting.
I grabbed some coffee and went to my car where I had left
an open box of granola bars. With the media filling the kitchen
there was no way to prepare breakfast, or lunch, for the women
present that day.
After awhile a phone call came: Lynn Sherr was on her way
and someone needed to meet her car at the gate. Kelly, a student
from SMU-Hattiesburg, and I drove down to wait. He filled me
in on some more of the local news articles, TV stories, and
letters to the editor. Most, though not all, are sympathetic with
the towns folk, not the Hensons.
I've never been more proud to be a
lesbian than while I sat there listening
as they told their stories and proclaimed
their rights as Americans and human
beings.
The 20/20 interview began. We had to remain quiet and out
of the way most of the time, but couldn't help breaking out into
wild cheers and applause at each break.
The Hensons are warm, genuine, brave, and angry, and
they are not going anywhere. I've never been more proud to be
a lesbian than while I sat there listening as they told their stories
and proclaimed their rights as Americans and human beings.
The gate and many of the trees at the entry are painted lavender.
One question came: "Why paint everything *lavender*?"
Brenda replied, •'They have tom down and stolen every sign
we've put up. Women who need us don't knowhow to find us.
I'll paint every tree on this hill, every rock, every bush; I'll paint
the dog if that's what it takes to let people know we're here!"
The interview went on. Brenda's daughter, a human rights
activist with her own set of enemies in Mississippi, was
interviewed. Wanda's son was shown splitting wood. Another
woman running various power tools. Different locations, walking the property, looking over the wooded hills. Other reporters
were doing their own interviews. Finally the big one was over
and the crew packed up to go to the next location to interview
neighbors down the road. Adrienne, the cook, was finally able
to prepare an evening meal: fried chicken, mashed potatoes,
sweet potatoes, green beans. Standard southern fare, but was
it delicious!
I'd told Alex the night before I'd call again at 7 P .M .. The
local news came on; yet another story. "Hey, Sarah! You're . ·
on TV!'' It was getting dark, people were leaving, a few new
folk arrived. Kim and I washed the dishes from our evening
meal. Finally! I felt useful! We all settled in front of the stove
for another evening of talking and standing guard. Someone
brought out a book of lesbian essays and poetry and a few of us
took turns reading aloud. More discussions about civil rights,
and anger, and fear. The Hensons were in the office working
on press releases. There was also lighter talk of good bars and
restaurants in New Orleans, invitations to come back to visit,
suggestions to start a Lesbian Avengers chapter in Lexington.
I went to bed at 11 that night since I was returning to
Kentucky the following day and needed a good night's sleep.
We are at war, folks. The battle lines
are being drawn as you read this.
Wednesday morning. I awoke early, no one else was up.
The sun was shining, the birds singing. It was quiet and
peaceful and beautiful: just the atmosphere the Hen sons intend
Camp Sister Spirit to have always. I was profoundly moved by
this bittersweet moment of what ought to be. I wandered the
area, getting last photographs, not wanting to leave, feeling a
need and desire to do more than simply witness their work.
Cheri, the third permanent resident of the camp, invited me
into the Henson's trailer for coffee and to say good-bye. They
were all hustling around, preparing for another day. A local
radio talk show was having a call-in regarding the Sister Spirit
"situation." Wanda was looking for the phone number so she
could call shortly. I lingered, watching and listening, but
finally had to go. I tried to tune in the radio station in my car,
but couldn't find it. I stopped in Ellisville to call Alex one more
time to let her know I was still alive and on my way home.
Brenda and Wanda Henson truly are the two bravest people
I have ever met. They have absolute confidence that they will
succeed, and total trust that the queer community will rally and
come to their aid. And this we MUST do. Because of the ongoing battle and subsequent media blitz, the Hensons are far
behind in their planning to get the camp up and running. They
need help of all kinds. Anyone with a few days time and the
least bit of skill in carpentry, plumbing, fencing, electrical,
mechanics, or anything else, call them and go. If you can't go,
send money, even ifit' s just a dollar. If you can't send a dollar,
send a card expressing your pride and support for their work.
We are at war, folks. The battle lines are being drawn as
you read this. People have already died elsewhere, and some of
the people I met in Mississippi last week may die next. It is time
to stand up and fight. If you want to help the Hensons, call or
write at the following:Brenda and Wanda Henson (601) 3441411 Camp Sister Spirit, Inc., P.O. Box 12 Ovett,Mississippi
39464.
The 20/20 interview likely will be aired in late January or
February. Watch for it. (P.S. I'm the one peeling potatoes on
the left!)
D
Her/and Voice February, 1994
I,
I
5
111
II
Dykes To Watch Out For
lolkY 15 IT WO~ GE1"" PE.GGED
AS EMOflONAl A~P UJ,/PREDIC'fA&J.£
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~EGEr11e.1
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r-----------,
I
I
HISTORY MONTH
I
Here are just some of the opportunities available in Oklahoma City to
learn more about African-American
history. Check with your local library, university, and community organizations to find out what's planned
for other cities .
I
I
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I
Black Liberated Arts Center
I
February 11 : Multicultural Conference with Robert Northern and
George Smith
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••
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I
1.5
CAJ(.AT
C11R1N1' SoJ.1IAl~E
RltJG.,
O~LY$199.95!
I
I
I
I
February 19: 8 P.M. and February
20 at4 P .M. "The Colored Museum"
(musical comedy) at the Civic Center Little Theater
Call BLAC at 232-2522 for more
information.
I
I
I
I
II
Operating Account
Income
$29,350
$7,057
Donations
Bookstore Sales
$5,305
$5,421
Retreat Registrations
$8,555
Events
Foundation grant
$1,000
$2,012
Other
Expenses
$29,914
Building
$ 8, 110
(Mortgage, utilities & maintenance)
Newsletter
$ 5,946
Retreats
$ 3,091
Goods for Resale
$ 3,764
Program
$ 7 ,964
Other Expenses
$ 353
Herland Legal Defense Fund
Income
$7,840
6 Berland Voice February, 1994
Expenses
Payments to attorneys
Fundraising Expenses
$7,281
$6,760
$ 521
Tuesday, February 10 10- 11 A.M.
African Folktales & Music featuring
Jabruba
Saturday, February 19 9 A.M. Noon Third Annual Dave Ross
Speech Contest
I
Saturday, February 26 9 A.M. Noon Black Jeopardy for High
School Students
I
I
Monday, February 7 7 P.M. Blacks
in the Military: Part 1
I
Wednesday, February 9
I
••
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·I
Ralph Ellison Library
2000N.E. 23
Oklahoma City, OK
llERLAND ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT
JANUARY,1993--DECEMBER,1993
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
~CLIK!:::
• . -ll!IS S"Tl!NNING
CELEBRATE BLACK
7 P.M.
I
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I
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I
I
I Blacks in the Military: Part 2
I
II Saturday, February 19 1:30 P.M. II
I The Emancipation of the African I
Brain
I
I
I Wednesday, February 23 7 P.M. I
I Black Freedmen and Their I
I Interelations with the 5 Civilized I
I Tribes
I
I Call the Ralph Ellison Library at I
I 424-1437 for more information.
I
,,)I
I\..
___________
I
l.':•
_Iii!
':,i':,
•1•11·::1.:
·:·
..
11:~ · ~e·~:¥~~~·.· e·~~~·· ~·
~·~~.t,,:~N~~:~. ~;.; ;. i: ·.~ ::: !!i \·,·:: : ::::
~
. · . · ,·-:· :·:· :·:·: -: -: -:-:-: ·: .: -:-:- :-:-:·: ::: : :: ::: ::::::: :: ::·:·
.·.· .·. · .·. ·.· .·. ·.·. ·.·.·. :·:·.·:· :·: ·:·:· :·: · ::: ::: ::::. ·· :: ::: :::: :: ::·:.· · ·
The Herland Board is beginning to work on the next three-year plan for Herland. In 1990, we developed a three-year plan and
most of the goals have been met. As a community organization, your input is very important to the success of Herland' s plan. Please
take a few minutes to respond to the questions below and share your ideas of what Herland is and can become. Please return the
completed questionaire to Herland, 2312 N.W. 39, OKC, OK 73112 by February 12 so we'll have your suggestions when we meet.
How are you involved in Herland?
I am a Herland volunteer.
_ I attend Herland sponsored events regularly.
_ I attend the Herland retreat regularly.
_ I attend Herland sponsored events/retreats sometimes.
_ I occasionaly make purchases at Herland.
_My only involvement is through reading the Herland Voice .
Programming:
I prefer Herland present:
_ 1or2 nationally known women's music performers each year
or
_ 3 or 4 regionally known women's music performers each year
Performers I suggest Herland consider presenting are:
I'd like to participate or coordinate these activities:
Participate
Lead
Reading discussion group
Workshop/discussion group on._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Workshop/discussion group on~----------Workshop/discussion group on._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Right now, the only Herland activities restricted to women-only are the semi-annual retreats. Would you like for Herland to offer
other women-only activities/space? _ Yes _No
If so, what kinds of activities do you suggest be women-only?
What other suggestions do you have for Herland programming?
Retreats
My favorite retreat locations are: (choose 3)
Robber's Cave State Park
Lake Wister State Park
_ Lake Murray State Park
Roman Nose State Park
I prefer:
_ the retreat to be held in a variety of parks around the state.
or
_ the retreat to be held in one or two specific locations
(over)
_
_
_
_
Osage Hills State Park
Boiling Springs State Park
Arrowhead State Park
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Sequoyah State Park
How important is travel time to the retreat for you?
_ i f travel time is longer than 2 hours I won't go.
_ I prefer travel less than 2 hours but it won't stop me from attending.
_ travel time is not important.
What other suggestions do you have about retreats?
Sales
When Herland began it was the only place women's music and books were available in Oklahoma City. Since then, women's books
and music have become much more widely available.
Herland should sell:
_ a wide range of women's books, tapes, and eds even if otherwise available locally
_ only books, tapes, and eds and music not otherwise available in O.KC
_ no books, tapes or eds
What would you like Berland to make available for purchase?
What suggestions do you have for improving the Berland Voice?
The Berland Mission Statement says, '•Although Berland is not restricted to lesbians, we have a strong lesbian focus.'' Do you feel
Herland has the right balance of lesbian/gay focus and women's issues? In what areas would you like to see more emphasis?
What other suggestions do you have for improving Berland?
Thank you for taking the time to answer this questionaire. Your suggestions will be an important part of developing a plan for Berland.
Berland is completely operated by volunteers. There is a place for you. Please let us know what volunteer activities you are interested
m.
I'd like to:
Serve on the Board
Staff Herland on the weekend
_ Help maintain the building and grounds
_ Serve on the Legal Defense Fund Committee
Write for the newsletter
_Work on Herland productions (e.g., coffehouses & concerts)
_Help with fundraising
_ Help organize and maintain the library
-
da~HERLAND ~
ICE
February, 1994
CAMP SISTER
SPIRIT
NOTED ATTORNEY
TO SPEAK
Sarah D. Carrigan
There are a great many stories which need to be told about
the women in Ovett, Mississippi: Brenda and Wanda Henson.
Each has a life story of courage and inspiration, battling former
husbands and family for their children, escaping abusive
marriages, finding themsel vesand each other in Mississippi ten ,
years ago, beginning a life together dedicated to helping any
and all persons in need, battling for civil rights both at home and
abroad. The list goes on. This is the story of my encounter with
the Hensons.
Currently the Hensons are focused on getting Camp Sister
Spirit, Inc. up and running. Seven months ago they bought 120
acres of Mississippi woodland outside Hattiesburg to found a
retreat dedicated to providing safe space for women to come
learn about themselves and each other. They intend the acreage
to be used to battle all forms of oppression through education.
In November of 1993 some of the local people began a
cruel campaign of terroristic threatening activity to remove the
Hensons from the community. Why? Because the work they
propose to do threatens the southern racist patriarchal way of
life endemic to Mississippi and the rest of the South. The
community folk claim that because the Hensons are a lesbian
couple, the women and children of the community are not safe.
But when faced with life altering change, aren' t the lives and
purity of women and children always held as precious justification for assault, murder and mayhem? After all, the weak
women and children must be protected from any changes which
might actually improve their lives. Upon learning of the
activities going on, the armed ''hunters'' found trespassing on
the Henson' s land, the life-threatening phone calls, the bus
loads of children driven by the property on their way to school
and encouraged to jeer and taunt the hatreds of their elders, the
numerous property signs tom down and destroyed, and other
ugly acts and crimes, I felt compelled to do what I could to assist
these women in this true life and death struggle.
January 3rd, 1994. I drove from Lexington, KY to Camp
Sister Spirit, 20 miles outside Ellisville, Mississippi. I had
intended to attend a ''town meeting'' planned for January 4th,
but when I called that morning and spoke with Wanda, I learned
it had been rescheduled for that evening. I expected the drive
to take at least ten hours, not counting time for stops. I wasn't
certain I'd arrive on time, but I'd try. (continued page 4)
Volwne 11 Nwnber 2
Ruthann Robson, author of Lesbian (Out)Law: Survival
Under the Rule of Law and professor of law at the City
University of New York (CUNY) School of Law, will be
speaking at the University of Oklahoma on February 17-19,
1994. She will speak on Thursday, February 17, 1994, at 7:30
P.M. in the Meachem Auditorium of the Oklahoma Memorial
Union on the OU campus. Her presentation entitled, ·'Lesbians
in Life, Law and Literature,'' will discuss some of the legal and
literary problems in contemporary lesbian lives. On Saturday,
February 19, Robson will read from her fiction work at Herland
Sister Resources at 6:30 P.M.
Robson is recognized as one of "the nation's foremost
Supreme Court scholars," according the Advocate: The National Gay and Lesbian Newsmagazine and "the leading
authority on lesbians and law,'' according to the Village Voice.
Lesbian (Out )Law is a groundbreaking and unique work that
has garnered wide attention in lesbian, lesbian/gay/bi and
feminist publications as well as from legal scholars in legal
journals, textbooks, and classrooms across the United States
and Canada.
Robson is also the author of two critically acclaimed
collections of fiction, Eye ofa Hurricane (1989), recipient of the
prestigious annual Ferro-Grumley Award for "outstanding
fiction on lesbian life," and Cecile, a series of inter-related
short stories of "first rate women' s writing" about lesbians
·'surviving in occupied territory'' that nevertheless• 'insists on
its right to humor, sex, politics, and academic theory." [OffOur
Backs, Booklist, Women's Review cif Books] (Continued page 2)
• :•1 •1 :1 •111:111• 1 1 1 •• •1 11111 1 1 1 1 1 1•1
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·:·:·.·:·:·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·:·.·.·:·:·:·:·····:·:···:·:·.···:·:·:·:·:·:·:·.·=:·:·:·:·:·
Herland Sister Resources
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::::::::::::==
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=-:-:·=·=-=-=-=·=-=·=-=-=·=·=-=·===·====
=============
.......... ......
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2312 N.W. 39, OKC, OK 73112
LESBIAN WRITERS FUND
RUTHANN ROBSON
ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS FOR
(continued from page 1)
1994
AWARDS
The Lesbian Writers Fund will make five awards of
$11,000 each to lesbian writers in June 1994. Now in its fourth
year, the Lesbian Writers Fund was established by the Astraea
National Lesbian Action Foundation to support the work of
emerging lesbian writers of fiction and poetry.
The deadline for applications for the awards is March 8,
1994. Complete guidelines and the application form can be
obtained by writing the Astraea National Lesbian Action
Foundation, Attn: Lesbian Writers Fund, 666Broadway, Suite
520, New York, NY 10012.
Additionally, the Sappho Award of Distinction, a grant of
$5,000 will be given to an established writer. The Sappho
award winners for 1992 and 1993 were Audre Lorde and
Adrienne Rich. There is no application process f or this award . .
Astraea is the first nationwide lesbian foundation. Astraea
was begun in 1966 by a multi-racial, multi-cultural group of
feminist activists to empower women through financial and
organizational support. In recognition of the contributions and
needs oflesbians, Astraea became the National Lesbian Action
Foundation in 1990.
The Lesbian Writers Fund has been made possible by
the generous support of its founding donor, Joan Drury, a
lesbian feminist philanthropist from Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The Fund is seeking additional contributions to expand the
nwnber and kinds of awanls to be made in future years.
D
0
ACLU CHALLENGE TO SODOMY LAW
If you are a lesbian and you wish to join in
a legal action challenging the constitutionality of the Oklahoma state sodomy, please
contact the American Civil Liberties Union of
Oklahoma at (405)524-8511 or write 1441
Classen Blvd. #318, Oklahoma City, OK
73106-6609. Plaintiffs' attorneys Mark
Henricksen, Esq., Jane Eulberg, Esq., Shirley
Wiegand, Esq. You have nothing to lose but
your chains.
~!J(. !&~, cR. Pfi., !D.!D.d'.
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2 Her/and Voice February, 1994
( 4"')7"·4"99
o:t.1.o- ea,, 0.!1(
7!/IRO
Robson's newest work is a forthcoming novel
about a lesbian lawyer who represents lesbian mothers, including lesbian mothers accused of murder. She
will read from the forthcoming novel at her Herland
appearance.
The OU Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Association
and the OU Speakers Bureau are sponsors for Robson's
Oklahoma visit. Special provisions can and will be
made for those who have a physical impairment.
Contact the OUGLBA at 325-4452 for further information.
o
Praise for the fiction of
Ruthann Robson
· · Eye of A Hurricane
winner of the 1990 Ferro-Grumley
Award for outstanding lesbian fiction
· "a strong and fresh contribution to
women's literature."
-Marge Piercy in Women's
Review of Books
"Robson is a master of her
craft .... Place, character, story-line
language all meld into wholes as rare
as perfect shells found along the tide
line"
-Bay Windows
· "The least of these stories
entertains and charms us; the best of
them broadens our vision."
-Sojourner
Cecile
. · "Robson's writing is spare and
graceful, with wonderfully original
sparks of sarcasm and wit sprinkled
liberally throughout."
-Publishers Weekly
· "This is fiction that insists on its
right to humor, sex, politics, academic
theory ... ."
- Valerie Miner in Women's
Review of Books
"fine writing - by far the very best I
have read in a book in which lesbians
are the main characters in a long
time."
- Rebecca Brown in Belles
Lettres
LESBIANS UNDER ATTACK IN
RURAL MISSISSIPPI: A FIRST
HAND ACCOUNT
by John Gutierrez
ELLISVILLE, MS-On January 3, over 400 residents of
Jones County, Mississippi, gathered for the second time in the
Ellisville courthouse to discuss plans to run lesbian couple
Wanda and Brenda Henson and their feminist educational
retreat, Camp Sister Spirit, out of the two-store town of Ovett.
I joined eight other supporters of the Hensons from south
Mississippi in attending the meeting. No supporters of Sister
Spirit spoke at the meeting; rather, we served merely as
observers. For this Mississippi native, the meeting and its
aftermath were like a journey back to a time when the National
Guard was needed to keep citizens of Little Rdck from attack-' '
ing young African-American girls on their way to school and
when Mississippi preachers denounced Elvis for corrupting
young minds.
The Hensons are renovating a 120-acre pig farm to use as
a retreat and meeting space for their own feminist educational
organization and other like-minded groups. The goals of Camp
Sister Spirit include feeding and clothing the poor, teaching
literacy, aiding displaced homemakers, and providing education on racism, sexism, homohobia, and other social issues.
Residents of Ovett fear the Hensons will recruit local women
to become lesbians and that their community will become a
"hotbed of lesbianism." For weeks, the Hensons have been
harassed by phone calls threatening death and gunshots on
their property. At the meeting, the opposition group announced
it will file a lawsuit in order to protect the property values of the
surrounding area which it claims are threatened by the Hen sons'
presence.
The meeting itself consisted primarily of canned fundamentalist Christian rhetoric and generous doses of distorted and
false information about gay men and lesbians. Part of the
Christian right propaganda film The Gay Agenda, featuring
carefully selected scenes from the 1993 March on Washington,
was shown, and no fewer than three Baptist ministers led the
crowd in prayer. Frequent shouts of "Amen" and "Hallelujah"
rose throughout the evening, adding to the already distinct
feeling of a religious revival. The ministers prayed for the
power to drive the 'evil reprobates' out and thereby protect such
a morally upright community from becoming a "hub of homosexual activity." At the meeting's end, opposition leader James
Hendry implored the crowd to contribute to a fund being
collected to fight the Hensons.
Ultimately, each speaker used the occasion to whip the
crowd into a hostile mob and to stir emotions in order to
persuade locals that two doctoral candidates who plan to feed
the poor and teach the illiterate are a serious threat to the health
and morals of the community. Rev. Ken Fairly of Mount
Carmel Baptist Church in Hattiesburg, went so far as to
specifically encourage local citizens to attack Camp Sister
Spirit. He said, •'When I heard that rednecks were attacking
Camp Sister Spirit, I was disappointed because I think they
should be attacked by all kinds of necks: black necks, white
necks .... "
A large number of local and national media representatives
attended, including Leslie Stahl of the television newsmagazine
20/20, and reporters from National Public Radio and The
Village Voice. The leaders of the meeting were painfully aware
of this heavy media presence. Those speaking repeatedly
referred to the media's portrayal of the townspeople as a violent
lynch mob. The crowd was cautioned to be on their best
behavior and to remember that they were a community of lawabiding Christians.
The meeting seemed carefully staged to stress the town's
religious and moral concerns and downplay the tendency
towards bigotry and violence. During the screening of The Gay
Agenda, many of the women dramatically buried their heads in
their hands and wept or pretended to weep. There were,
however, revealing cracks in their righteous facade--moments
the media weren' t supposed to see. Some in the courthouse
cringed when a speaker made reference to the locai "colored"
folks. A more sinister slip was one man's suggestion that, due
to the media's presence, they not discuss their actual plans at
that time. The gaffe visibly disconcerted Hendry, who was
leading the meeting, and he conspicuously ignored the comment.
It became apparent after the meeting that many people
were not going to heed Hendry's call for lawful "Christian"
behavior. As the crowd dispersed, some recognized gay men
Todd Emerson and Luis Cintron from their recent appearance
on an Oprah Winfrey Show which focused on the Ovett-Sister
Spirit issue. Emerson and Cintron were part of our small group
of Sister Spirit supporters. Several men surrounded us, taunting
with "faggots," "queers," "sinners" and asking if we "knew
Jesus.'' One man was held back from physically attacking us
and finally the police parted the crowd for us to exit. As we
made our way out, the increasingly unruly mob waved Bibles,
pushed at us, and threatened that we "better get out." Finally,
the police escorted us to the county line.
The importance of the Hensons' fight cannot be underestimated as it has implications for gay men and lesbians living
in small towns and rural areas across the South and across the
country. I can think of no current gay or lesbian effort tougher
than waging a pitched battle against fundamentalist Southern
Baptists in rural Mississippi. This fight is far from mere politics
or ideology; it is truly a life or death struggle for liberty. In order
to survive, Camp Sister Spirit needs the support of gay men and
lesbians everywhere. To offer your support, call the Hensons,
at ()() 1/344-1411.
Many prayers were said at the meeting, all ill a most unChristlike spirit ofhostility. I would like to offer a prayer of my
own for the people of Jones County. I pray that they will learn
to live without fear and hatred. I pray that they will educate
themselves and not blindly accept the teachings of men motivated by prejudice and greed. And finally, I pray that they may
come to know peace and compassion and that they may develop
an appreciation for the diversity of human life. Amen.
0
Her/and Voice February, 1994
3
CAMP SISTER SPIRIT
(continued from page 1)
I drove into Ellisville at 8:30 central time (9:30 Lexington
time). Themeetinghadbegunat7P.M .. Asldrovebythetown
hall I saw 5 or 6 police cars parked and 2 cruising the streets.
A few people were milling about. I was alone in a car with a
Kentucky license plate: I drove on by.
I was feeling the paranoia of entering a
warzone and being identified as the
enemy.
On the south end of town I stopped at a gas station to call
the Hensons. Wanda had told me that morning to call when I
got to Ellisville as the entry gate to the property would be
locked and they had been escorting all visitors on and off the
grounds. She gave me directions one more time and I set off
on the final 20 mile leg of my journey. Even though it was pitch ·
dark I was feeling conspicuous in my aquamarine Toyota
Paseo. Most all the vehicles I had seen in town were older
model beat-up American cars and trucks. I drove slowly to
watch for the turns. About 8 miles out of town a fast moving
car came up from behind. I slowed to about 40 m.p.h. to allow
it to pass. It didn't. Rather, it got right up on my rear and stayed
there for about three miles, no matter·what my speed. When
it finally passed I started to feel some relief until I realized it
was staying about three quarters of a mile ahead of me; maybe
watching, maybe not. I was feeling the paranoia of entering a
warzone and being identified as the enemy.
I found the first turn, then the second without seeing any
other traffic. I was moving very slowly to watch for the gate
when I saw the headlights and a white gravel drive: I had
arrived and there were my escorts. One of the women jumped
out of the truck: "Kentucky?" "Yeah, I'm Sarah." "Drive on
in.We'll close the gate and follow." I was on a one-lane gravel
path, about a half-mile long. It had been raining for several
days in Mississippi and the red mud was deep. I saw another
. truck prominently parked at what appeared to be a lookout
point, but learned later it was simply stuck in the mud. I drove
on up to the two main buildings and parked near 8-10 other cars
and several campers. My escorts introduced themeselves and
took me "inside."
There are two buildings under construction/renovation.
The kitchen area of the main building has a dirt floor, two walls
of plastic sheeting, a third of plywood, while the fourth is open.
A wood stove made not long before from a 50 gallon drum
stands in the entry where 12 women were crowded around
trying to stay warm. There is no other heat source here. Some
were college students from Hattiesburg, some friends of the
Hensons, some members of the New Orleans chapter of the
Lesbian Avengers. All were there to protect, help and support
Camp Sister Spirit. I was introduced to Brenda, then Wanda,
then "everyone else."
First I had to call Alex back in Kentucky to let her know
I'd arrived safely. Then these various women asked about my
drive ( 12 hours) and why I had come all the way from Kentucky
4 Her/and Voice February, 1994
· (how could I not?). One student from California asked "Is
Kentucky part of the South?" Others asked "Isn't Kentucky
a lot more progressive than here?'' What could I say to that?
There were several other women who had arrived just that
day, so Wanda got up and directed us to please sign the release
forms their lawyer was insistent about. Essentially I was
indicating in writing that I knew where I was and willingly had
entered a potentially dangerous situation. Then Wanda told us
about some of the most recent events (the last death threat had
come on Christmas Eve) and talked about safety (walk in
groups at all times) and self-defense (if you have a gun keep it
hidden. Pull it out only if you intend to use it immediately.)
This is a war zone.
Later on others arrived who had attended the town meeting.
They described it as a cross between a revival and preparation
for a lynching. The townsfolk had been unable thus far to find
any legal means of removing the Hensons from their property;
they were angry and stymied. They called for a defense fund
to be established to prepare for legal battle with the Hensons.
The county sheriff (an elected official sworn to protect all
citizens) assisted in passing the hat. Someone put in a hundred
dollar bill: "hallelujah, praise the lord, amen." The 11 P.M.
news had a briefreport and video clip from the meeting. A news
crew from ABC's 20/20 was there and would be coming to the
camp the following day to interview the Hensons.
Wanda, Brenda, and several other women went to bed.
The rest stayed up, some all night, to stand guard. They spoke
in low tones and with great tension, fully expecting something
to happen. The dog barked a few times and several women
walked out a short ways to check each time. Around 1 A.M. I
finally got my gear from the car and prepared for bed. The
sleeping area was upstairs: a half-finished room with plastic
sheeting hung to divide it kept the warmth in. Bare mattresses
with blankets and sleeping bags were strewn about the floor. I
took one that appeared unclaimed. Then I had to go out to the
other building for bathroom preparations: no running water yet
in the main facility. Back in the sleeping room a couple of
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women snuggled under four or five blankets stirred and began
asking questions, so I sat on their mattresses and talked a long
time. They had met on a previous visit to the camp andhad since
been dating: new love arising out of age old hatreds. I finally
crawled into my sleeping bag (many thanks to Alex who
reminded me to take it!) and pulled an extra blanket across.
Surprisingly enough, I fell asleep rather quickly. Tense as I
was, it had been an exhausting day and I was drained both
physically and emotionally.
The next morning I awoke to the sounds of people milling
about below me. I made my way to the bathroom through a
crowd of new people: photographers, reporters, crews from
various TV stations. The media had been arriving nearly every
morning since the Oprah show two weeks before. A few women
were putting up walls and electrical lines, but many (including
me) were wandering the grounds, waiting for something to
happen. This day Lynn Sherr from 20/20 would arrive to
interview Brenda and Wanda, and the crew was there early to
setup and prepare the camp in what they thought would be a
more realistic setting.
I grabbed some coffee and went to my car where I had left
an open box of granola bars. With the media filling the kitchen
there was no way to prepare breakfast, or lunch, for the women
present that day.
After awhile a phone call came: Lynn Sherr was on her way
and someone needed to meet her car at the gate. Kelly, a student
from SMU-Hattiesburg, and I drove down to wait. He filled me
in on some more of the local news articles, TV stories, and
letters to the editor. Most, though not all, are sympathetic with
the towns folk, not the Hensons.
I've never been more proud to be a
lesbian than while I sat there listening
as they told their stories and proclaimed
their rights as Americans and human
beings.
The 20/20 interview began. We had to remain quiet and out
of the way most of the time, but couldn't help breaking out into
wild cheers and applause at each break.
The Hensons are warm, genuine, brave, and angry, and
they are not going anywhere. I've never been more proud to be
a lesbian than while I sat there listening as they told their stories
and proclaimed their rights as Americans and human beings.
The gate and many of the trees at the entry are painted lavender.
One question came: "Why paint everything *lavender*?"
Brenda replied, •'They have tom down and stolen every sign
we've put up. Women who need us don't knowhow to find us.
I'll paint every tree on this hill, every rock, every bush; I'll paint
the dog if that's what it takes to let people know we're here!"
The interview went on. Brenda's daughter, a human rights
activist with her own set of enemies in Mississippi, was
interviewed. Wanda's son was shown splitting wood. Another
woman running various power tools. Different locations, walking the property, looking over the wooded hills. Other reporters
were doing their own interviews. Finally the big one was over
and the crew packed up to go to the next location to interview
neighbors down the road. Adrienne, the cook, was finally able
to prepare an evening meal: fried chicken, mashed potatoes,
sweet potatoes, green beans. Standard southern fare, but was
it delicious!
I'd told Alex the night before I'd call again at 7 P .M .. The
local news came on; yet another story. "Hey, Sarah! You're . ·
on TV!'' It was getting dark, people were leaving, a few new
folk arrived. Kim and I washed the dishes from our evening
meal. Finally! I felt useful! We all settled in front of the stove
for another evening of talking and standing guard. Someone
brought out a book of lesbian essays and poetry and a few of us
took turns reading aloud. More discussions about civil rights,
and anger, and fear. The Hensons were in the office working
on press releases. There was also lighter talk of good bars and
restaurants in New Orleans, invitations to come back to visit,
suggestions to start a Lesbian Avengers chapter in Lexington.
I went to bed at 11 that night since I was returning to
Kentucky the following day and needed a good night's sleep.
We are at war, folks. The battle lines
are being drawn as you read this.
Wednesday morning. I awoke early, no one else was up.
The sun was shining, the birds singing. It was quiet and
peaceful and beautiful: just the atmosphere the Hen sons intend
Camp Sister Spirit to have always. I was profoundly moved by
this bittersweet moment of what ought to be. I wandered the
area, getting last photographs, not wanting to leave, feeling a
need and desire to do more than simply witness their work.
Cheri, the third permanent resident of the camp, invited me
into the Henson's trailer for coffee and to say good-bye. They
were all hustling around, preparing for another day. A local
radio talk show was having a call-in regarding the Sister Spirit
"situation." Wanda was looking for the phone number so she
could call shortly. I lingered, watching and listening, but
finally had to go. I tried to tune in the radio station in my car,
but couldn't find it. I stopped in Ellisville to call Alex one more
time to let her know I was still alive and on my way home.
Brenda and Wanda Henson truly are the two bravest people
I have ever met. They have absolute confidence that they will
succeed, and total trust that the queer community will rally and
come to their aid. And this we MUST do. Because of the ongoing battle and subsequent media blitz, the Hensons are far
behind in their planning to get the camp up and running. They
need help of all kinds. Anyone with a few days time and the
least bit of skill in carpentry, plumbing, fencing, electrical,
mechanics, or anything else, call them and go. If you can't go,
send money, even ifit' s just a dollar. If you can't send a dollar,
send a card expressing your pride and support for their work.
We are at war, folks. The battle lines are being drawn as
you read this. People have already died elsewhere, and some of
the people I met in Mississippi last week may die next. It is time
to stand up and fight. If you want to help the Hensons, call or
write at the following:Brenda and Wanda Henson (601) 3441411 Camp Sister Spirit, Inc., P.O. Box 12 Ovett,Mississippi
39464.
The 20/20 interview likely will be aired in late January or
February. Watch for it. (P.S. I'm the one peeling potatoes on
the left!)
D
Her/and Voice February, 1994
I,
I
5
111
II
Dykes To Watch Out For
lolkY 15 IT WO~ GE1"" PE.GGED
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~EGEr11e.1
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I
I
HISTORY MONTH
I
Here are just some of the opportunities available in Oklahoma City to
learn more about African-American
history. Check with your local library, university, and community organizations to find out what's planned
for other cities .
I
I
I
I
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I
Black Liberated Arts Center
I
February 11 : Multicultural Conference with Robert Northern and
George Smith
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••
I
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I
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I
1.5
CAJ(.AT
C11R1N1' SoJ.1IAl~E
RltJG.,
O~LY$199.95!
I
I
I
I
February 19: 8 P.M. and February
20 at4 P .M. "The Colored Museum"
(musical comedy) at the Civic Center Little Theater
Call BLAC at 232-2522 for more
information.
I
I
I
I
II
Operating Account
Income
$29,350
$7,057
Donations
Bookstore Sales
$5,305
$5,421
Retreat Registrations
$8,555
Events
Foundation grant
$1,000
$2,012
Other
Expenses
$29,914
Building
$ 8, 110
(Mortgage, utilities & maintenance)
Newsletter
$ 5,946
Retreats
$ 3,091
Goods for Resale
$ 3,764
Program
$ 7 ,964
Other Expenses
$ 353
Herland Legal Defense Fund
Income
$7,840
6 Berland Voice February, 1994
Expenses
Payments to attorneys
Fundraising Expenses
$7,281
$6,760
$ 521
Tuesday, February 10 10- 11 A.M.
African Folktales & Music featuring
Jabruba
Saturday, February 19 9 A.M. Noon Third Annual Dave Ross
Speech Contest
I
Saturday, February 26 9 A.M. Noon Black Jeopardy for High
School Students
I
I
Monday, February 7 7 P.M. Blacks
in the Military: Part 1
I
Wednesday, February 9
I
••
I
I
I
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·I
Ralph Ellison Library
2000N.E. 23
Oklahoma City, OK
llERLAND ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT
JANUARY,1993--DECEMBER,1993
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
~CLIK!:::
• . -ll!IS S"Tl!NNING
CELEBRATE BLACK
7 P.M.
I
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I
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I
I
I
I
I
I Blacks in the Military: Part 2
I
II Saturday, February 19 1:30 P.M. II
I The Emancipation of the African I
Brain
I
I
I Wednesday, February 23 7 P.M. I
I Black Freedmen and Their I
I Interelations with the 5 Civilized I
I Tribes
I
I Call the Ralph Ellison Library at I
I 424-1437 for more information.
I
,,)I
I\..
___________
I
l.':•
_Iii!
':,i':,
•1•11·::1.:
·:·
..
11:~ · ~e·~:¥~~~·.· e·~~~·· ~·
~·~~.t,,:~N~~:~. ~;.; ;. i: ·.~ ::: !!i \·,·:: : ::::
~
. · . · ,·-:· :·:· :·:·: -: -: -:-:-: ·: .: -:-:- :-:-:·: ::: : :: ::: ::::::: :: ::·:·
.·.· .·. · .·. ·.· .·. ·.·. ·.·.·. :·:·.·:· :·: ·:·:· :·: · ::: ::: ::::. ·· :: ::: :::: :: ::·:.· · ·
The Herland Board is beginning to work on the next three-year plan for Herland. In 1990, we developed a three-year plan and
most of the goals have been met. As a community organization, your input is very important to the success of Herland' s plan. Please
take a few minutes to respond to the questions below and share your ideas of what Herland is and can become. Please return the
completed questionaire to Herland, 2312 N.W. 39, OKC, OK 73112 by February 12 so we'll have your suggestions when we meet.
How are you involved in Herland?
I am a Herland volunteer.
_ I attend Herland sponsored events regularly.
_ I attend the Herland retreat regularly.
_ I attend Herland sponsored events/retreats sometimes.
_ I occasionaly make purchases at Herland.
_My only involvement is through reading the Herland Voice .
Programming:
I prefer Herland present:
_ 1or2 nationally known women's music performers each year
or
_ 3 or 4 regionally known women's music performers each year
Performers I suggest Herland consider presenting are:
I'd like to participate or coordinate these activities:
Participate
Lead
Reading discussion group
Workshop/discussion group on._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Workshop/discussion group on~----------Workshop/discussion group on._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Right now, the only Herland activities restricted to women-only are the semi-annual retreats. Would you like for Herland to offer
other women-only activities/space? _ Yes _No
If so, what kinds of activities do you suggest be women-only?
What other suggestions do you have for Herland programming?
Retreats
My favorite retreat locations are: (choose 3)
Robber's Cave State Park
Lake Wister State Park
_ Lake Murray State Park
Roman Nose State Park
I prefer:
_ the retreat to be held in a variety of parks around the state.
or
_ the retreat to be held in one or two specific locations
(over)
_
_
_
_
Osage Hills State Park
Boiling Springs State Park
Arrowhead State Park
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Sequoyah State Park
How important is travel time to the retreat for you?
_ i f travel time is longer than 2 hours I won't go.
_ I prefer travel less than 2 hours but it won't stop me from attending.
_ travel time is not important.
What other suggestions do you have about retreats?
Sales
When Herland began it was the only place women's music and books were available in Oklahoma City. Since then, women's books
and music have become much more widely available.
Herland should sell:
_ a wide range of women's books, tapes, and eds even if otherwise available locally
_ only books, tapes, and eds and music not otherwise available in O.KC
_ no books, tapes or eds
What would you like Berland to make available for purchase?
What suggestions do you have for improving the Berland Voice?
The Berland Mission Statement says, '•Although Berland is not restricted to lesbians, we have a strong lesbian focus.'' Do you feel
Herland has the right balance of lesbian/gay focus and women's issues? In what areas would you like to see more emphasis?
What other suggestions do you have for improving Berland?
Thank you for taking the time to answer this questionaire. Your suggestions will be an important part of developing a plan for Berland.
Berland is completely operated by volunteers. There is a place for you. Please let us know what volunteer activities you are interested
m.
I'd like to:
Serve on the Board
Staff Herland on the weekend
_ Help maintain the building and grounds
_ Serve on the Legal Defense Fund Committee
Write for the newsletter
_Work on Herland productions (e.g., coffehouses & concerts)
_Help with fundraising
_ Help organize and maintain the library
-
da~HERLAND ~
ICE
February, 1994
CAMP SISTER
SPIRIT
NOTED ATTORNEY
TO SPEAK
Sarah D. Carrigan
There are a great many stories which need to be told about
the women in Ovett, Mississippi: Brenda and Wanda Henson.
Each has a life story of courage and inspiration, battling former
husbands and family for their children, escaping abusive
marriages, finding themsel vesand each other in Mississippi ten ,
years ago, beginning a life together dedicated to helping any
and all persons in need, battling for civil rights both at home and
abroad. The list goes on. This is the story of my encounter with
the Hensons.
Currently the Hensons are focused on getting Camp Sister
Spirit, Inc. up and running. Seven months ago they bought 120
acres of Mississippi woodland outside Hattiesburg to found a
retreat dedicated to providing safe space for women to come
learn about themselves and each other. They intend the acreage
to be used to battle all forms of oppression through education.
In November of 1993 some of the local people began a
cruel campaign of terroristic threatening activity to remove the
Hensons from the community. Why? Because the work they
propose to do threatens the southern racist patriarchal way of
life endemic to Mississippi and the rest of the South. The
community folk claim that because the Hensons are a lesbian
couple, the women and children of the community are not safe.
But when faced with life altering change, aren' t the lives and
purity of women and children always held as precious justification for assault, murder and mayhem? After all, the weak
women and children must be protected from any changes which
might actually improve their lives. Upon learning of the
activities going on, the armed ''hunters'' found trespassing on
the Henson' s land, the life-threatening phone calls, the bus
loads of children driven by the property on their way to school
and encouraged to jeer and taunt the hatreds of their elders, the
numerous property signs tom down and destroyed, and other
ugly acts and crimes, I felt compelled to do what I could to assist
these women in this true life and death struggle.
January 3rd, 1994. I drove from Lexington, KY to Camp
Sister Spirit, 20 miles outside Ellisville, Mississippi. I had
intended to attend a ''town meeting'' planned for January 4th,
but when I called that morning and spoke with Wanda, I learned
it had been rescheduled for that evening. I expected the drive
to take at least ten hours, not counting time for stops. I wasn't
certain I'd arrive on time, but I'd try. (continued page 4)
Volwne 11 Nwnber 2
Ruthann Robson, author of Lesbian (Out)Law: Survival
Under the Rule of Law and professor of law at the City
University of New York (CUNY) School of Law, will be
speaking at the University of Oklahoma on February 17-19,
1994. She will speak on Thursday, February 17, 1994, at 7:30
P.M. in the Meachem Auditorium of the Oklahoma Memorial
Union on the OU campus. Her presentation entitled, ·'Lesbians
in Life, Law and Literature,'' will discuss some of the legal and
literary problems in contemporary lesbian lives. On Saturday,
February 19, Robson will read from her fiction work at Herland
Sister Resources at 6:30 P.M.
Robson is recognized as one of "the nation's foremost
Supreme Court scholars," according the Advocate: The National Gay and Lesbian Newsmagazine and "the leading
authority on lesbians and law,'' according to the Village Voice.
Lesbian (Out )Law is a groundbreaking and unique work that
has garnered wide attention in lesbian, lesbian/gay/bi and
feminist publications as well as from legal scholars in legal
journals, textbooks, and classrooms across the United States
and Canada.
Robson is also the author of two critically acclaimed
collections of fiction, Eye ofa Hurricane (1989), recipient of the
prestigious annual Ferro-Grumley Award for "outstanding
fiction on lesbian life," and Cecile, a series of inter-related
short stories of "first rate women' s writing" about lesbians
·'surviving in occupied territory'' that nevertheless• 'insists on
its right to humor, sex, politics, and academic theory." [OffOur
Backs, Booklist, Women's Review cif Books] (Continued page 2)
• :•1 •1 :1 •111:111• 1 1 1 •• •1 11111 1 1 1 1 1 1•1
~.:=.'~ .'~=.:~=·.:,·~' ~,·.•=~.: ~·,:~. :~.·= ~.' ~.= '~. :~ 1\~rr~r.
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·············:········:••1:•
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.. .. .. ..
:•••••1•:•·1•
.. . . . . . . ...
·:·:·.·:·:·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·:·.·.·:·:·:·:·····:·:···:·:·.···:·:·:·:·:·:·:·.·=:·:·:·:·:·
Herland Sister Resources
r
::::::::::::==
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~f~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~r ~tr ~=~: : :
=-:-:·=·=-=-=-=·=-=·=-=-=·=·=-=·===·====
=============
.......... ......
.
: : : : : : : : : : : : : :.::.:.:.::
: : : : :: : :
.: :.: :.: :.'.'·'·'
:·=·=·=·=·=·=-=·:·:::.:;:::;:(:::=:::=: :==== ========·
:·:·:·:·:-:::::::::::::;::;:;:::;:;:::;:::;::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
r~tt~~~~~~
2312 N.W. 39, OKC, OK 73112
LESBIAN WRITERS FUND
RUTHANN ROBSON
ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS FOR
(continued from page 1)
1994
AWARDS
The Lesbian Writers Fund will make five awards of
$11,000 each to lesbian writers in June 1994. Now in its fourth
year, the Lesbian Writers Fund was established by the Astraea
National Lesbian Action Foundation to support the work of
emerging lesbian writers of fiction and poetry.
The deadline for applications for the awards is March 8,
1994. Complete guidelines and the application form can be
obtained by writing the Astraea National Lesbian Action
Foundation, Attn: Lesbian Writers Fund, 666Broadway, Suite
520, New York, NY 10012.
Additionally, the Sappho Award of Distinction, a grant of
$5,000 will be given to an established writer. The Sappho
award winners for 1992 and 1993 were Audre Lorde and
Adrienne Rich. There is no application process f or this award . .
Astraea is the first nationwide lesbian foundation. Astraea
was begun in 1966 by a multi-racial, multi-cultural group of
feminist activists to empower women through financial and
organizational support. In recognition of the contributions and
needs oflesbians, Astraea became the National Lesbian Action
Foundation in 1990.
The Lesbian Writers Fund has been made possible by
the generous support of its founding donor, Joan Drury, a
lesbian feminist philanthropist from Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The Fund is seeking additional contributions to expand the
nwnber and kinds of awanls to be made in future years.
D
0
ACLU CHALLENGE TO SODOMY LAW
If you are a lesbian and you wish to join in
a legal action challenging the constitutionality of the Oklahoma state sodomy, please
contact the American Civil Liberties Union of
Oklahoma at (405)524-8511 or write 1441
Classen Blvd. #318, Oklahoma City, OK
73106-6609. Plaintiffs' attorneys Mark
Henricksen, Esq., Jane Eulberg, Esq., Shirley
Wiegand, Esq. You have nothing to lose but
your chains.
~!J(. !&~, cR. Pfi., !D.!D.d'.
~Cl- fo• //.. &llv g"""4
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'nr. dVO'flf. .:Al.'""-
2 Her/and Voice February, 1994
( 4"')7"·4"99
o:t.1.o- ea,, 0.!1(
7!/IRO
Robson's newest work is a forthcoming novel
about a lesbian lawyer who represents lesbian mothers, including lesbian mothers accused of murder. She
will read from the forthcoming novel at her Herland
appearance.
The OU Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Association
and the OU Speakers Bureau are sponsors for Robson's
Oklahoma visit. Special provisions can and will be
made for those who have a physical impairment.
Contact the OUGLBA at 325-4452 for further information.
o
Praise for the fiction of
Ruthann Robson
· · Eye of A Hurricane
winner of the 1990 Ferro-Grumley
Award for outstanding lesbian fiction
· "a strong and fresh contribution to
women's literature."
-Marge Piercy in Women's
Review of Books
"Robson is a master of her
craft .... Place, character, story-line
language all meld into wholes as rare
as perfect shells found along the tide
line"
-Bay Windows
· "The least of these stories
entertains and charms us; the best of
them broadens our vision."
-Sojourner
Cecile
. · "Robson's writing is spare and
graceful, with wonderfully original
sparks of sarcasm and wit sprinkled
liberally throughout."
-Publishers Weekly
· "This is fiction that insists on its
right to humor, sex, politics, academic
theory ... ."
- Valerie Miner in Women's
Review of Books
"fine writing - by far the very best I
have read in a book in which lesbians
are the main characters in a long
time."
- Rebecca Brown in Belles
Lettres
LESBIANS UNDER ATTACK IN
RURAL MISSISSIPPI: A FIRST
HAND ACCOUNT
by John Gutierrez
ELLISVILLE, MS-On January 3, over 400 residents of
Jones County, Mississippi, gathered for the second time in the
Ellisville courthouse to discuss plans to run lesbian couple
Wanda and Brenda Henson and their feminist educational
retreat, Camp Sister Spirit, out of the two-store town of Ovett.
I joined eight other supporters of the Hensons from south
Mississippi in attending the meeting. No supporters of Sister
Spirit spoke at the meeting; rather, we served merely as
observers. For this Mississippi native, the meeting and its
aftermath were like a journey back to a time when the National
Guard was needed to keep citizens of Little Rdck from attack-' '
ing young African-American girls on their way to school and
when Mississippi preachers denounced Elvis for corrupting
young minds.
The Hensons are renovating a 120-acre pig farm to use as
a retreat and meeting space for their own feminist educational
organization and other like-minded groups. The goals of Camp
Sister Spirit include feeding and clothing the poor, teaching
literacy, aiding displaced homemakers, and providing education on racism, sexism, homohobia, and other social issues.
Residents of Ovett fear the Hensons will recruit local women
to become lesbians and that their community will become a
"hotbed of lesbianism." For weeks, the Hensons have been
harassed by phone calls threatening death and gunshots on
their property. At the meeting, the opposition group announced
it will file a lawsuit in order to protect the property values of the
surrounding area which it claims are threatened by the Hen sons'
presence.
The meeting itself consisted primarily of canned fundamentalist Christian rhetoric and generous doses of distorted and
false information about gay men and lesbians. Part of the
Christian right propaganda film The Gay Agenda, featuring
carefully selected scenes from the 1993 March on Washington,
was shown, and no fewer than three Baptist ministers led the
crowd in prayer. Frequent shouts of "Amen" and "Hallelujah"
rose throughout the evening, adding to the already distinct
feeling of a religious revival. The ministers prayed for the
power to drive the 'evil reprobates' out and thereby protect such
a morally upright community from becoming a "hub of homosexual activity." At the meeting's end, opposition leader James
Hendry implored the crowd to contribute to a fund being
collected to fight the Hensons.
Ultimately, each speaker used the occasion to whip the
crowd into a hostile mob and to stir emotions in order to
persuade locals that two doctoral candidates who plan to feed
the poor and teach the illiterate are a serious threat to the health
and morals of the community. Rev. Ken Fairly of Mount
Carmel Baptist Church in Hattiesburg, went so far as to
specifically encourage local citizens to attack Camp Sister
Spirit. He said, •'When I heard that rednecks were attacking
Camp Sister Spirit, I was disappointed because I think they
should be attacked by all kinds of necks: black necks, white
necks .... "
A large number of local and national media representatives
attended, including Leslie Stahl of the television newsmagazine
20/20, and reporters from National Public Radio and The
Village Voice. The leaders of the meeting were painfully aware
of this heavy media presence. Those speaking repeatedly
referred to the media's portrayal of the townspeople as a violent
lynch mob. The crowd was cautioned to be on their best
behavior and to remember that they were a community of lawabiding Christians.
The meeting seemed carefully staged to stress the town's
religious and moral concerns and downplay the tendency
towards bigotry and violence. During the screening of The Gay
Agenda, many of the women dramatically buried their heads in
their hands and wept or pretended to weep. There were,
however, revealing cracks in their righteous facade--moments
the media weren' t supposed to see. Some in the courthouse
cringed when a speaker made reference to the locai "colored"
folks. A more sinister slip was one man's suggestion that, due
to the media's presence, they not discuss their actual plans at
that time. The gaffe visibly disconcerted Hendry, who was
leading the meeting, and he conspicuously ignored the comment.
It became apparent after the meeting that many people
were not going to heed Hendry's call for lawful "Christian"
behavior. As the crowd dispersed, some recognized gay men
Todd Emerson and Luis Cintron from their recent appearance
on an Oprah Winfrey Show which focused on the Ovett-Sister
Spirit issue. Emerson and Cintron were part of our small group
of Sister Spirit supporters. Several men surrounded us, taunting
with "faggots," "queers," "sinners" and asking if we "knew
Jesus.'' One man was held back from physically attacking us
and finally the police parted the crowd for us to exit. As we
made our way out, the increasingly unruly mob waved Bibles,
pushed at us, and threatened that we "better get out." Finally,
the police escorted us to the county line.
The importance of the Hensons' fight cannot be underestimated as it has implications for gay men and lesbians living
in small towns and rural areas across the South and across the
country. I can think of no current gay or lesbian effort tougher
than waging a pitched battle against fundamentalist Southern
Baptists in rural Mississippi. This fight is far from mere politics
or ideology; it is truly a life or death struggle for liberty. In order
to survive, Camp Sister Spirit needs the support of gay men and
lesbians everywhere. To offer your support, call the Hensons,
at ()() 1/344-1411.
Many prayers were said at the meeting, all ill a most unChristlike spirit ofhostility. I would like to offer a prayer of my
own for the people of Jones County. I pray that they will learn
to live without fear and hatred. I pray that they will educate
themselves and not blindly accept the teachings of men motivated by prejudice and greed. And finally, I pray that they may
come to know peace and compassion and that they may develop
an appreciation for the diversity of human life. Amen.
0
Her/and Voice February, 1994
3
CAMP SISTER SPIRIT
(continued from page 1)
I drove into Ellisville at 8:30 central time (9:30 Lexington
time). Themeetinghadbegunat7P.M .. Asldrovebythetown
hall I saw 5 or 6 police cars parked and 2 cruising the streets.
A few people were milling about. I was alone in a car with a
Kentucky license plate: I drove on by.
I was feeling the paranoia of entering a
warzone and being identified as the
enemy.
On the south end of town I stopped at a gas station to call
the Hensons. Wanda had told me that morning to call when I
got to Ellisville as the entry gate to the property would be
locked and they had been escorting all visitors on and off the
grounds. She gave me directions one more time and I set off
on the final 20 mile leg of my journey. Even though it was pitch ·
dark I was feeling conspicuous in my aquamarine Toyota
Paseo. Most all the vehicles I had seen in town were older
model beat-up American cars and trucks. I drove slowly to
watch for the turns. About 8 miles out of town a fast moving
car came up from behind. I slowed to about 40 m.p.h. to allow
it to pass. It didn't. Rather, it got right up on my rear and stayed
there for about three miles, no matter·what my speed. When
it finally passed I started to feel some relief until I realized it
was staying about three quarters of a mile ahead of me; maybe
watching, maybe not. I was feeling the paranoia of entering a
warzone and being identified as the enemy.
I found the first turn, then the second without seeing any
other traffic. I was moving very slowly to watch for the gate
when I saw the headlights and a white gravel drive: I had
arrived and there were my escorts. One of the women jumped
out of the truck: "Kentucky?" "Yeah, I'm Sarah." "Drive on
in.We'll close the gate and follow." I was on a one-lane gravel
path, about a half-mile long. It had been raining for several
days in Mississippi and the red mud was deep. I saw another
. truck prominently parked at what appeared to be a lookout
point, but learned later it was simply stuck in the mud. I drove
on up to the two main buildings and parked near 8-10 other cars
and several campers. My escorts introduced themeselves and
took me "inside."
There are two buildings under construction/renovation.
The kitchen area of the main building has a dirt floor, two walls
of plastic sheeting, a third of plywood, while the fourth is open.
A wood stove made not long before from a 50 gallon drum
stands in the entry where 12 women were crowded around
trying to stay warm. There is no other heat source here. Some
were college students from Hattiesburg, some friends of the
Hensons, some members of the New Orleans chapter of the
Lesbian Avengers. All were there to protect, help and support
Camp Sister Spirit. I was introduced to Brenda, then Wanda,
then "everyone else."
First I had to call Alex back in Kentucky to let her know
I'd arrived safely. Then these various women asked about my
drive ( 12 hours) and why I had come all the way from Kentucky
4 Her/and Voice February, 1994
· (how could I not?). One student from California asked "Is
Kentucky part of the South?" Others asked "Isn't Kentucky
a lot more progressive than here?'' What could I say to that?
There were several other women who had arrived just that
day, so Wanda got up and directed us to please sign the release
forms their lawyer was insistent about. Essentially I was
indicating in writing that I knew where I was and willingly had
entered a potentially dangerous situation. Then Wanda told us
about some of the most recent events (the last death threat had
come on Christmas Eve) and talked about safety (walk in
groups at all times) and self-defense (if you have a gun keep it
hidden. Pull it out only if you intend to use it immediately.)
This is a war zone.
Later on others arrived who had attended the town meeting.
They described it as a cross between a revival and preparation
for a lynching. The townsfolk had been unable thus far to find
any legal means of removing the Hensons from their property;
they were angry and stymied. They called for a defense fund
to be established to prepare for legal battle with the Hensons.
The county sheriff (an elected official sworn to protect all
citizens) assisted in passing the hat. Someone put in a hundred
dollar bill: "hallelujah, praise the lord, amen." The 11 P.M.
news had a briefreport and video clip from the meeting. A news
crew from ABC's 20/20 was there and would be coming to the
camp the following day to interview the Hensons.
Wanda, Brenda, and several other women went to bed.
The rest stayed up, some all night, to stand guard. They spoke
in low tones and with great tension, fully expecting something
to happen. The dog barked a few times and several women
walked out a short ways to check each time. Around 1 A.M. I
finally got my gear from the car and prepared for bed. The
sleeping area was upstairs: a half-finished room with plastic
sheeting hung to divide it kept the warmth in. Bare mattresses
with blankets and sleeping bags were strewn about the floor. I
took one that appeared unclaimed. Then I had to go out to the
other building for bathroom preparations: no running water yet
in the main facility. Back in the sleeping room a couple of
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women snuggled under four or five blankets stirred and began
asking questions, so I sat on their mattresses and talked a long
time. They had met on a previous visit to the camp andhad since
been dating: new love arising out of age old hatreds. I finally
crawled into my sleeping bag (many thanks to Alex who
reminded me to take it!) and pulled an extra blanket across.
Surprisingly enough, I fell asleep rather quickly. Tense as I
was, it had been an exhausting day and I was drained both
physically and emotionally.
The next morning I awoke to the sounds of people milling
about below me. I made my way to the bathroom through a
crowd of new people: photographers, reporters, crews from
various TV stations. The media had been arriving nearly every
morning since the Oprah show two weeks before. A few women
were putting up walls and electrical lines, but many (including
me) were wandering the grounds, waiting for something to
happen. This day Lynn Sherr from 20/20 would arrive to
interview Brenda and Wanda, and the crew was there early to
setup and prepare the camp in what they thought would be a
more realistic setting.
I grabbed some coffee and went to my car where I had left
an open box of granola bars. With the media filling the kitchen
there was no way to prepare breakfast, or lunch, for the women
present that day.
After awhile a phone call came: Lynn Sherr was on her way
and someone needed to meet her car at the gate. Kelly, a student
from SMU-Hattiesburg, and I drove down to wait. He filled me
in on some more of the local news articles, TV stories, and
letters to the editor. Most, though not all, are sympathetic with
the towns folk, not the Hensons.
I've never been more proud to be a
lesbian than while I sat there listening
as they told their stories and proclaimed
their rights as Americans and human
beings.
The 20/20 interview began. We had to remain quiet and out
of the way most of the time, but couldn't help breaking out into
wild cheers and applause at each break.
The Hensons are warm, genuine, brave, and angry, and
they are not going anywhere. I've never been more proud to be
a lesbian than while I sat there listening as they told their stories
and proclaimed their rights as Americans and human beings.
The gate and many of the trees at the entry are painted lavender.
One question came: "Why paint everything *lavender*?"
Brenda replied, •'They have tom down and stolen every sign
we've put up. Women who need us don't knowhow to find us.
I'll paint every tree on this hill, every rock, every bush; I'll paint
the dog if that's what it takes to let people know we're here!"
The interview went on. Brenda's daughter, a human rights
activist with her own set of enemies in Mississippi, was
interviewed. Wanda's son was shown splitting wood. Another
woman running various power tools. Different locations, walking the property, looking over the wooded hills. Other reporters
were doing their own interviews. Finally the big one was over
and the crew packed up to go to the next location to interview
neighbors down the road. Adrienne, the cook, was finally able
to prepare an evening meal: fried chicken, mashed potatoes,
sweet potatoes, green beans. Standard southern fare, but was
it delicious!
I'd told Alex the night before I'd call again at 7 P .M .. The
local news came on; yet another story. "Hey, Sarah! You're . ·
on TV!'' It was getting dark, people were leaving, a few new
folk arrived. Kim and I washed the dishes from our evening
meal. Finally! I felt useful! We all settled in front of the stove
for another evening of talking and standing guard. Someone
brought out a book of lesbian essays and poetry and a few of us
took turns reading aloud. More discussions about civil rights,
and anger, and fear. The Hensons were in the office working
on press releases. There was also lighter talk of good bars and
restaurants in New Orleans, invitations to come back to visit,
suggestions to start a Lesbian Avengers chapter in Lexington.
I went to bed at 11 that night since I was returning to
Kentucky the following day and needed a good night's sleep.
We are at war, folks. The battle lines
are being drawn as you read this.
Wednesday morning. I awoke early, no one else was up.
The sun was shining, the birds singing. It was quiet and
peaceful and beautiful: just the atmosphere the Hen sons intend
Camp Sister Spirit to have always. I was profoundly moved by
this bittersweet moment of what ought to be. I wandered the
area, getting last photographs, not wanting to leave, feeling a
need and desire to do more than simply witness their work.
Cheri, the third permanent resident of the camp, invited me
into the Henson's trailer for coffee and to say good-bye. They
were all hustling around, preparing for another day. A local
radio talk show was having a call-in regarding the Sister Spirit
"situation." Wanda was looking for the phone number so she
could call shortly. I lingered, watching and listening, but
finally had to go. I tried to tune in the radio station in my car,
but couldn't find it. I stopped in Ellisville to call Alex one more
time to let her know I was still alive and on my way home.
Brenda and Wanda Henson truly are the two bravest people
I have ever met. They have absolute confidence that they will
succeed, and total trust that the queer community will rally and
come to their aid. And this we MUST do. Because of the ongoing battle and subsequent media blitz, the Hensons are far
behind in their planning to get the camp up and running. They
need help of all kinds. Anyone with a few days time and the
least bit of skill in carpentry, plumbing, fencing, electrical,
mechanics, or anything else, call them and go. If you can't go,
send money, even ifit' s just a dollar. If you can't send a dollar,
send a card expressing your pride and support for their work.
We are at war, folks. The battle lines are being drawn as
you read this. People have already died elsewhere, and some of
the people I met in Mississippi last week may die next. It is time
to stand up and fight. If you want to help the Hensons, call or
write at the following:Brenda and Wanda Henson (601) 3441411 Camp Sister Spirit, Inc., P.O. Box 12 Ovett,Mississippi
39464.
The 20/20 interview likely will be aired in late January or
February. Watch for it. (P.S. I'm the one peeling potatoes on
the left!)
D
Her/and Voice February, 1994
I,
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5
111
II
Dykes To Watch Out For
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I
I
HISTORY MONTH
I
Here are just some of the opportunities available in Oklahoma City to
learn more about African-American
history. Check with your local library, university, and community organizations to find out what's planned
for other cities .
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Black Liberated Arts Center
I
February 11 : Multicultural Conference with Robert Northern and
George Smith
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1.5
CAJ(.AT
C11R1N1' SoJ.1IAl~E
RltJG.,
O~LY$199.95!
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I
February 19: 8 P.M. and February
20 at4 P .M. "The Colored Museum"
(musical comedy) at the Civic Center Little Theater
Call BLAC at 232-2522 for more
information.
I
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II
Operating Account
Income
$29,350
$7,057
Donations
Bookstore Sales
$5,305
$5,421
Retreat Registrations
$8,555
Events
Foundation grant
$1,000
$2,012
Other
Expenses
$29,914
Building
$ 8, 110
(Mortgage, utilities & maintenance)
Newsletter
$ 5,946
Retreats
$ 3,091
Goods for Resale
$ 3,764
Program
$ 7 ,964
Other Expenses
$ 353
Herland Legal Defense Fund
Income
$7,840
6 Berland Voice February, 1994
Expenses
Payments to attorneys
Fundraising Expenses
$7,281
$6,760
$ 521
Tuesday, February 10 10- 11 A.M.
African Folktales & Music featuring
Jabruba
Saturday, February 19 9 A.M. Noon Third Annual Dave Ross
Speech Contest
I
Saturday, February 26 9 A.M. Noon Black Jeopardy for High
School Students
I
I
Monday, February 7 7 P.M. Blacks
in the Military: Part 1
I
Wednesday, February 9
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·I
Ralph Ellison Library
2000N.E. 23
Oklahoma City, OK
llERLAND ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT
JANUARY,1993--DECEMBER,1993
I
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~CLIK!:::
• . -ll!IS S"Tl!NNING
CELEBRATE BLACK
7 P.M.
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I Blacks in the Military: Part 2
I
II Saturday, February 19 1:30 P.M. II
I The Emancipation of the African I
Brain
I
I
I Wednesday, February 23 7 P.M. I
I Black Freedmen and Their I
I Interelations with the 5 Civilized I
I Tribes
I
I Call the Ralph Ellison Library at I
I 424-1437 for more information.
I
,,)I
I\..
___________
I
l.':•
_Iii!
':,i':,
•1•11·::1.:
·:·
..
11:~ · ~e·~:¥~~~·.· e·~~~·· ~·
~·~~.t,,:~N~~:~. ~;.; ;. i: ·.~ ::: !!i \·,·:: : ::::
~
. · . · ,·-:· :·:· :·:·: -: -: -:-:-: ·: .: -:-:- :-:-:·: ::: : :: ::: ::::::: :: ::·:·
.·.· .·. · .·. ·.· .·. ·.·. ·.·.·. :·:·.·:· :·: ·:·:· :·: · ::: ::: ::::. ·· :: ::: :::: :: ::·:.· · ·
The Herland Board is beginning to work on the next three-year plan for Herland. In 1990, we developed a three-year plan and
most of the goals have been met. As a community organization, your input is very important to the success of Herland' s plan. Please
take a few minutes to respond to the questions below and share your ideas of what Herland is and can become. Please return the
completed questionaire to Herland, 2312 N.W. 39, OKC, OK 73112 by February 12 so we'll have your suggestions when we meet.
How are you involved in Herland?
I am a Herland volunteer.
_ I attend Herland sponsored events regularly.
_ I attend the Herland retreat regularly.
_ I attend Herland sponsored events/retreats sometimes.
_ I occasionaly make purchases at Herland.
_My only involvement is through reading the Herland Voice .
Programming:
I prefer Herland present:
_ 1or2 nationally known women's music performers each year
or
_ 3 or 4 regionally known women's music performers each year
Performers I suggest Herland consider presenting are:
I'd like to participate or coordinate these activities:
Participate
Lead
Reading discussion group
Workshop/discussion group on._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Workshop/discussion group on~----------Workshop/discussion group on._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Right now, the only Herland activities restricted to women-only are the semi-annual retreats. Would you like for Herland to offer
other women-only activities/space? _ Yes _No
If so, what kinds of activities do you suggest be women-only?
What other suggestions do you have for Herland programming?
Retreats
My favorite retreat locations are: (choose 3)
Robber's Cave State Park
Lake Wister State Park
_ Lake Murray State Park
Roman Nose State Park
I prefer:
_ the retreat to be held in a variety of parks around the state.
or
_ the retreat to be held in one or two specific locations
(over)
_
_
_
_
Osage Hills State Park
Boiling Springs State Park
Arrowhead State Park
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Sequoyah State Park
How important is travel time to the retreat for you?
_ i f travel time is longer than 2 hours I won't go.
_ I prefer travel less than 2 hours but it won't stop me from attending.
_ travel time is not important.
What other suggestions do you have about retreats?
Sales
When Herland began it was the only place women's music and books were available in Oklahoma City. Since then, women's books
and music have become much more widely available.
Herland should sell:
_ a wide range of women's books, tapes, and eds even if otherwise available locally
_ only books, tapes, and eds and music not otherwise available in O.KC
_ no books, tapes or eds
What would you like Berland to make available for purchase?
What suggestions do you have for improving the Berland Voice?
The Berland Mission Statement says, '•Although Berland is not restricted to lesbians, we have a strong lesbian focus.'' Do you feel
Herland has the right balance of lesbian/gay focus and women's issues? In what areas would you like to see more emphasis?
What other suggestions do you have for improving Berland?
Thank you for taking the time to answer this questionaire. Your suggestions will be an important part of developing a plan for Berland.
Berland is completely operated by volunteers. There is a place for you. Please let us know what volunteer activities you are interested
m.
I'd like to:
Serve on the Board
Staff Herland on the weekend
_ Help maintain the building and grounds
_ Serve on the Legal Defense Fund Committee
Write for the newsletter
_Work on Herland productions (e.g., coffehouses & concerts)
_Help with fundraising
_ Help organize and maintain the library
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