Networking45North_v9.no6.1995.11-12.pdf
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- Networking45North_v9.no6.1995.11-12.pdf
- extracted text
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•••• -,·
• ., •••• , •••••-
[ THE NEWSLffiER OF FRIENDS NORTH, INC.,
•••••~
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an association of lesbians, gay men, bi-sexuals and their friends. II
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:::;;:::::::::::an·fi·u'AL
MEETING
TUESDAY,
DECEMBER
5, 19956:30PM
UNITARIAN
UNIVERSALIST
FELLOWSHIP,
TRAVERSE
CITY
LEYRAPHAEL'S
KEYNOTE
ADDRESS
FRIENDSNORTH(ONFERENCE,
OCTOBER
21, 1995
(Adapted from "DangerousMen," forthcomingin Journeys and Arrivals
Faber & Faber, March 1996
We live in a Mid~estern university community where between
us, we've taught at the university for almost forty years combined.
Our four-bedroom ranch house is on a quiet tree-lined street in a
comfortable suburb that was built up after the Second World War.
We chat with our neighbors about the weather.
We write lettersto the editor of our local paper when we're moved
by some issue, which is often. We know some of the reportersthere,
and women and men working in our post office by first name. We
vote in every election and in primaries. We sometimeswatch township
meetings on cable TV, and keep track of township developments.
We worry about drugs in the high school, real estate taxes, local
streets without enough stop signs, moles in the lawn, about gypsy
moths and tent caterpillars, about dry summersthat'll burn out lawns
and winters with too much snow that will make the river floodin the
December comes around quickly, and it is time for the Friends
spring. Much of our time is spent in undramatic pursuitslike laundry,
North Annual Meeting where there will be elections for Board
shopping,
making
Members to seNe for a two-year-term. This year there are six minor home repairs,
openings and we invite YOU to fill them! No experience washing the cars,
necessary, will train, it's fun, and we would like you to take a turn gardening, trimming
in helping us run this wonderful organization.
trees and shrubs,
The Friends North Board holds a general business meeting mowing the lawn,
once a month to go over events, treasurer reports, additional
raking leaves in the
plans, and members' concerns and ideas. If you are interested in fall, and shoveling
working with a great group of people, please contact Scott at the driveway in the
616-922-7768, evenings.
winter.
We've
raised
two kids. Raising
them has meant
helping
with
homework,
watching TV and
going to movies
together, shopping
for clothes more
often than we hoped
Friends North will be holding their Annual i\Aeeting at the
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Traverse City on Tuesday,
December 5th at 6:30 pm. Pleasebring a dish to pass, your own
table seNice, and your appetite. This year's event will feature
entertainmentby the Northern Michigan Womyn's Choir and guests.
Therewill also be electionsfor the Board of Directors,a review of the
past year, and a requestfor ideas for the upcoming new year.
Please plan on attending this gathering to experience an
evening of celebrating our community, great food, great
entertainment, meeting new people, and visiting with friends.
FRIENDSNORTHIS LOOKINGFOR
NEW BOARDMEMBERS
WELLNESS
NETWORKS
GTA
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Friends North, Inc., P.O. Box 562, Traverse City, Ml 49685-0562 ~
(616) 946-1 804 (This is a general information line to receive F/N ~
information.)
~
~
f
Just lately I had a friend tell me that a
straight acquaintance of ours was tired of
~ FRIENDSNORTH is an organization of lesbians, gay
hearing me talk about gay issues all the
~ and their friends from northwesternlower Michigan. Located in Traverse !
time.
She felt that I should focus on
~ City,we provide social activities, a newsletter, phone line, workshops, ~
.
~ and a community needs fund for financial assistance.
~ something else-sexualorientation being just
~:::
i one facet of our lives, I apparently spend
R,chard Tuxbury
:;:
~ THE BOARD OF DIRECTORSof FRIENDSNORTH is composed of nine ~
much time discussing the subject.
i women and men elected each December. Regular board meetings are ~ way I too
had
my own mother, a writer herself, tell me that our
~ held at Northwestern Michigan College, West Hall, Room 2 in the ~
~ cafeteria the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is i newsletter had a nice flair to it, " ... but why was it that you have
~" we Icome to attend.
~~
to spend so much time talking about oppression and being
~
~
gay?"
l RoseClement-secretary PattyO'Donnell-president ScottSoothwelHreasurer· i~
~
I suppose that we will hear the same comments from many
~
GregBaird
JimPoole
Gretchen
Sewage
~
gay and lesbian readers too.
I mean, their lives are
i§
TomKincaid
SusieKeillor-VP
Steve Waulkezoo
~
:::
comfortable, they aren't facing discrimination on a daily basis,
*
:-. and they would rather read about more entertaining things like
~§ NEWSLETTERCOtvVv\lTTEE:Publication of Networking 45° North. ~- fashion, parties, travel, sports and sex.
So, as I listen to what some are saying, I can only agree
Editor:
Richard Tuxbury: 271-3042
with them. We do spend way too much time talking and
Ii
or e-mail: TUX00 l @AOL. COM
~i
!1
Publishing& Layout: Richard Curtis: 929-9605
l writing about being gay. I wish it were different. I wish that
or email: RCURTIS695@AOL.COM
ll! the world was a fairer place and that I could forget that I was
~1
Advertising: Jim Carruthers: 922-7768
~ gay, but it just doesn't happen.
~
Mailing list: John Evans: 922-07 46
\~
I understand what they're saying. Most straight people
don't 'live the life,' and simply cannot relate to what it feels like
Networking 45° North is the newsletter of Friends North, Inc.
11 Viewpoints expressed do not necessarily representthose of the board or ~
to be excluded. With some gays, they are so closeted that
~ general membership.
~ they can't relate either. They're living the straight life too and
~
~
feel little discrimination, never allowing themselvesto be put in
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING and notices are run without charge.
~ Pleasesubmit in writing or by calling the editor (and leave ad on machine j~ a position of risk. In fact, hearing too much about "the issue"
l 271-3042 or use e-mail address.)
@
hits too close to home for closeted gays.
~
~
A few years ago, there was an emergency meeting of
~ DISPLAY ADVERTISING in Networking 45° North is available in *
~ BusinessCard size - $25.00 per space per issue or an annual rate of l Friends North members. Some felt that we should dissolve FN,
t: $120.00 for 6 issues.Insertsand larger sized ads are available. Please 1~ as there was a lack of interest in the membership. Some felt
~ call 'advertising' for rates.
[
that we, as gays and lesbians were already getting what we
~
men, bi-sexuals ~
I
1·~N:::~;;:;-4s:-N:';:-p~o~-;:-s62:-r;~::~:-c~;:-;,49685-0562,-1
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~ SPONSORING POLITICALPOSTCARDS:Cost for printing 2,800 ~
\i postcards for Networking 45° North is $85.00. To sponsor all or part ~
~ of this, and to give your input, call Richard at 271-3042.
f
I
I
~ CONTRIBUTIONS to Networking are welcome. Letters, essays, 1~
~ features, reflections, and original artwork should be sent "c/o Editor" to
~ above address. (Networking will not accept material that is sexist, ~i
~ discriminatory or sexually explicit. Contributors are responsible for ~
obtaining permission from those whose names they submit for ~
~ publication.)
~i
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)!
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~
NEXT DEADLINE: Issue# l - December 15.
I
ADDRESS CHANGES: Please notify us in advance if a change is
!1coming. Call John Evans, 922-07 46, or send changes to our address. ~
SUBSCRIPTIONS/MEMBERSHIPS: $12.00/single;
$18.00/
~ couple. Pleasesend checks or money orders to: FriendsNorth, P.O. Box ~
I 562, TraverseCity, Ml 49685-0562.
~
~ DISTRIBUTION: Networking
~
~
~
~
is published 6 times per year. Copies ~
are sent bulk-mail in a plain envelope to approximately 700 households. ~
Additional copies are available at select local establishments. Our
mailing list is confidential and is not sold or traded with other [~
organizations.
l
0
*~
i
~
printed on recycled paper
t
~§
"Because
youmentioned
thebiblical
basis
for
your
beliefs,
since
theTen
Commandments
mention
adultery
andnothomosexuality,
and
adultery
iscondemned
atleast
40times
more
than
homosexuality
intheBible,
should
wekeepanyone
outoftheservice
who
has
committed
adultery?
Myrecollection
ofmy
Army
days
isthatwould
thin
ourranks
appreciably.
"
lllllllll Senator
Paul
Simon
inhisnewspaper
column
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§
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
2
VOLUME 9 • ISSUE 6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER1995
wanted and perhaps didn't need a gay support organization
any more. Others felt differently, and new blood entered
Friends North, and it has continued being out there for the gay
and lesbian community since.
So, in answer to the few who complain and all those who
ask: Our newsletter and our organization plods on_and will
continue to provide information, a place to express ourselves,
and will work to promote visibility and change. We will
continue to do what we're doing and say what we're saying
just until:
• we have job protection
• we can marry and have the same legal rights as straight
couples
• we have the right to adopt children
In the meantime, there's no reason that we can't have a
little fun while we continue the work. And, we would like to
hear from you if you have any ideas on articles that are about
travel or fashion or if you have any personal stories or opinions
to share.
JIM CARRUTHERS
TO BE PRESENTED
1995 SARAHARDYMEMORIAL
AWARD
The TraverseCity Human RightsCommissionhas chosenJim
Carruthers to receive the 1995 Sara Hardy Memorial Award.
This award was established in memory of Sara Hardy a local
resident who started the Human RightsCommission in Traverse
City. The award is given each year to a person in the Greater
Grand TraverseArea that best personifiesthe goals, philosophies
and aspirations of the TraverseCity Human RightsCommission.
The award will be presentedat the City Commissionmeeting
on December4, 1995 in the city commissionchamber room on
the second floor of the Governmental Center. The presentation
will take place at 7:30 pm. A reception in Jim's honor will be
held immediatelyfollowing the presentation(around 7:45 pm) in
the cafeteria of the Governmental Center. Everyoneis welcome
and encouraged to attend.
dJ[L
Joanna
T.Lauber
Cross Country Ski
LJ~ORBUSH CORNER, INC.
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(51 7) 348-5989
Frederic, Michigan 49733
(616)947-8842
3301Veterans
Drive,Suite214,Traverse
City,MI 49684
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
What a great weekend! The Friends
North Gay and Lesbian History and
Education Day was a complete success
with seventy-five people in attendance,
wonderful
workshops
and
keynote
addresses, and the entertainment was
superb! I know the weekend touched me deeply with the
abundance of knowledge and talent that is in our
community. Thank you so much to the conference committee
who helped coordinate-Loraine,
Scott and Brenda; to the
keynote speakers; to the presenters of the workshops, to the
director and performers of the stage play and readings; to
the director and performers of the closing entertainment!
This "Day" turned out to be a weekend of fun with
people from all over Michigan. It is always a joy for me to
bring people together from many backgrounds and
interests, who might have only the fact that we are gay and
lesbian in common, and see them work together, learn from
each other, and most of all have fun together - we are
beautiful.
I hope everyone had a good fall and are preparing for
the approaching' winter skiing, sledding, making
snowpeople, the holidays (good or bad), visiting each other
indoors ... And with the winter comes the Friends North
Annual Meeting! I encourage all to attend an evening of
good food, socializing, looking back on the past year, and
making plans for the coming new year.
There are a few open positions on the board and I hope
that you will consider running for a seat. As a community,
we need to take turns in administering Friends North to keep
the energy flowing to provide the excellent events,
educational forums, the outstanding newsletter, and
community service. So, please think about volunteering to
be on the Board. I will _be happy to talk with anyone who
wants to know more about what being a Board Member
entails. Call the Friends North phoneline and leave your
name and number, and I will get back to you.
3
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
independent with regards to topics, logistics and attendees, yet
still helps us with the financial support. The Rap Group, like other
The Rap group meets at the Grace Episcopal Church at 349
Friends North offshoots has its own distinct personality. Its
Washington Street, by the Governmental Center. The room is in uniqueness is that it gives us the chance to meet, to know one
the basement and it is really very co-zy and safe.
another on a closer level and discuss topics relevant to our lives.
The November meeting falls on Wednesday the 8th, and the
Speaking from experience, sometimes you just need to be
topic will be Gay /Lesbian/Bisexual parents. Either those of you around other gay people to validate your own gayness. Whether
who have parents who are gay or those of you who are parents or not you do anything other than sit and absorb the gay
yourself, are especially invited. Please come and share your atmosphere is your own choice!! It is an enjoyable casual evening
feelings and experiences. What is our community doing or not and I urge those who have never attended a rap group to come
doing to help? Leave me a message on the phone line if you have and have fun. If you have not attended a rap group in a long time,
any questions and I will get back with you
please stop in and meet the new people.
The December meeting has been canceled due to the
This month's topic is Gay Parenting. We would like to invite
holidays, and the business of the season.
all of our gay parents to attend this very special rap group. The
The January meeting is planned to be a dinner meeting at a discussion will center around being a gay parent, and the very
local restaurant, watch this space for more details.
special changes it makes in your life. We will also explore what
The Friends North Rap Group meets the 2nd Wednesday of our community does and does not provide for our gay families.
each month at 7:30 pm, and enjoys the company of any and all There will be suitable day care provided at no cost.
who attend. Leave a message on the Friends North phone line
The November meeting is Wed. November 8, at 7:30 pm
and I will give you a call if you need any information.
at the Grace Episcopal Church at 349 Washington by the
Thanks-see you soon!! Rose
Governmental Center. Parking is available in back and on the
street. Hope to see you there.
Networking 45° North defines the Friends North Rap Group as
"A group of men and women who get together monthly for lively
discussion on a particular topic and a good time."
This is true, and to this goal we welcome both lesbians and
gays, young and old, to a very gay, safe comfortable setting.
There are no cliques, no in-crowds, no stressto be someone or
something you're not. Everyone is welcome!! People are free to
contribute to discussions, but no one is pushed to talk. No one
has to feel "OUT OR OUTED" to attend the evening.
Sometimes there are topics, other times there are just
discussions on gay issues that concern those who are attending.
We try to keep it formal enough so that we provide a stable, safe
environment, yet relaxed enough so what is currently important
can be discussed.
•
The plans for this group in the future are very exciting, with
bike rides, walks, dining out, theater, and road trips. As it is with
any group, the more the merrier. The monthly meetingsdo not cost
anything to attend, and we will make sure that as we do things
that cost money we will safeguard those in the community who
have fewer resources.
One of the strengthsof Friends North, and our community, is
the depth of variation in our events, and in our people. We are
very lucky to have an organization that allows us to be
Rose Clement
Show
Your
Colors!
Arainbow
ofcolor
stickers
oreshowing
uponcars
everywhere
toproudly
display
ourpride
inbeing
gayandlesbian,
andto
acknowledge
that"wearenotalone."
These
stickers
areavailable
attheBookie
Joint
onUnion
Street
inTraverse
City.
Get
yours
today
andshow
your
pride-and
smile
andwave
attheoccupants
ofthe
cars
with
rainbow
stickers.
PERRY
SHERWOOD
FINE ART
Computer Service and Upgrades
Custom Systems Available
Daniel Chapman, Consultant / Technician
334 River St.
Manistee, Ml 49660
(616) 723-6422 Fax: (616) 723-7140
200 Howard Street • Petoskey• 348-5079
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
4
VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
C=itlJfttr;ll:u:f;ii:ft:5:cJJAL,lL ,\:, :))\;it:: <i
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FROMTHECOMMUNITY
:1 h&,
,;,
Lesbian Coffeehouse
1111
I
SUGAR
LOAF
GAY/LESBIAN
HISTORY
DAY
-staff writer
"Something is happening here," more than one person said.
Unily Church- 3600 FiveMile Road - TraverseCily
A lot was: local and state history, workshops on
l11Ji
Call 946-2708 for more information
tlJ
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~·( ••••••~;1iKJl1ll11i(lJMLL:ML!l:tmut::'.:;:'.;,homophobia, spirituality, music, health issues, a staged-reading
11
of a one-act comedy about a lesbian blind date, a drama linking
gay bashing and military brutality ...
COFFEEHOUSE
It was the First Annual Gay/Lesbian History and Education
Day
sponsored by Friends North and held at Sugar Loaf Resort.
CELEBRATES YEARS!
About
85 people attended.
submitted by Carol Lambertson
Lev
Raphael,
Michigan State University instructorand awardWow! Not a big word really, but it packs a lot of meaning.
winning
author
of
"Dancing on Tisha A'Bav" and "Winter Eyes,"
It's the word that keeps coming to mind when I recall the October
gave
the
opening
morning address.
Out 'n About Lesbian Coffeehouse packed with over a hundred
The
son
of
Jewish
Holocaust survivors, Raphael credited his
women. What a rush to watch "The Incredibly True Adventure
of 2 Girls in Love" with a h_undredplus lesbians laughing together parents with having "good noses for totalitarianism." His mother,
as we saw various aspects of our own young love being played he said, tagged Richard Nixon as a fascist in the 1950s.
"The rhetoric of hate against gays and lesbians is not new,"
out on the screen, or screaming wildly in unison when the mother
he
said.
"It is similar to the hatred of Jews. Jew hatred is the
comes home to discover the girls in bed; and sharing the intense
paradigm
for homo hatred."
silence of everyone not breathing during the love scene (not to
It
surfaced
big time at the 1992 Republican convention and is
mention the synchronized squirming in our seats!) Wow! It was
spewed
almost
everyday in lettersto the editor spouting hatred that
a grand way to top off our second year!!
portrays
gays
and
lesbians as whining, sick, peNerted or damned
On November 18, Out 'n About will celebrate the end of
our second year and the beginning of our third with a traditional to hell. The litany of wrongs gays and lesbians have committed are
lesbian potluck followed by an evening of entertainment you similar to thoseJews have been accused of: infiltrating the fabric of
won't want to miss. The Last Minute lmprov, a professional society, recruiting children, taking over the country. And the radical
comedy troupe that has been performing for six years, will take right's cause is the same as other totalitarians.
"They say they are going to take back the country from us,
the floor at 8 pm. According to audiences at Gay Pride Day and
who
have supposedly stolen it," Raphael said.
Hearts Afire Cafe, the Wimmin of Last Minute lmprov will keep
Hate
speech now has found a home in the Republican Party
you laughing for days.
and
the
U.S.
Congress, he said, and urged us to do whatever
Out 'n About will provide the turkey, mashed potatoes,
stuffing and gravy. Bring a dish to share if you can. We'll also they can to fight it.
"Whether you are out or not, you must, as a gay or lesbian
have paper plates, etc., but if you'd like to bring your own table
individual,
make some kind of difference in this fight. You must be
service, please feel free. Dinner will begin at 7 pm, with
vocal,
you
must make noise. You've got to let people know the
entertainment from 8 to 9:30. Afterwards stick around for coffee
dangers
of
what
we're all facing. Write letters or donate money.
leftovers and dessert. $5 donation at th~ door.
'
Even
just
talk
to
people.
Explain to your straight friends the danger
Remember, there is no coffeehouse in December due to
that
we're
all
facing.
Get
them involved."
numerous holiday celebrations. See you the third Saturday in
Jan
Stevenson,
outgoing
executive director of the Detroit-area
January, 1996.
Community Center called Affirmations and a board member of the
Two
BANKERS
LIFE AND CASUALTYCOMPANY
Out 1 n About is a lesbian coffeehouse, held on the third
Saturday of each month except August and December. The
Coffeehouse comes alive between 7:00 and 11:00 p.m. at the
Unity Church, 3600 Five Mile Rood, TraverseCity.
Smoke Free - Chem Free-Cover donation is $3 ($5 if we have
entertainment).Snacksand coffee are free- softdrinksare available.
A Trusted Name In Insurance
For Over 100 Years
Long Term Care • Medicare Supplement
Income Replacement• Home Health Care
Annuity• Health• Life
For more information, or to have your name placed on the Out 'n
About mailing list, call Brenda at 946-2708 - leave message.
(Please note this is for Coffeehouse info only; if you have other
questions or needs, please call Friends North at 946-1804.)'
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
814 S. Garfield Ave. Suite C
TraverseCity, MI 49684
(616) 947-4390
LINDA L. WIKLE
Agent
S-5205
5
VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER1995
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF), gave the keynote
luncheon address.
The topic was "Who are the Antis." She listed three: the
radical right; electoral politicians such as Newt Gingrich; and the
internalized homophobia within the gay-lesbian community that
leads to intolerance of differences, character assassinations and
"kill the leader" syndrome.
The radical right, she said, doesn't like gays and lesbians and
never will. Gays and lesbians can't work with them. The radical
right also is nothing new to the American political scene. It is
spurred by the same forces that fueled the Ku Klux Klan,
McCarthyism, anti-semitism, racism and sexism.
"Every time our society has moved to broaden the carpet of
inclusion, a radical right has been there to pull the rug out from
under us," she said.
Gay rights activists had little organized opposition from 1970
to the mid- l 980s as they worked to repeal repressive sooomy
laws in many states and get support for anti-discrimination
employment and housing ordinances.
That, however, began to change in 1978 when former pop
singer Anita Brant launched her "Save Our Children" campaign.
"Over the next l O years, the radical right moved from the
fringes of society to center," Stevenson said.
Following the 1992 presidential election, Pat Buchanan
founded the Christian Coalition and named Ralph Reed its
director. It is now the strongest political organization in the country
with l .5 million members. As a result, it has successfully moved
its causes into mainstream American politics.
"The reality is, we can't work with the radical right," she said.
"They are there because of people like us. In the mainstream
political arena, we simply have to vote out the radical right."
In the 1994 elections, she said only 34 percent of the
electorate went to the polls. Of them, 30 percent were Christian
Coalition voters.
Although that is discouraging, she said, gays and lesbians
must also remember some of the successes. The Clinton
Administration is gay-friendly-the first administration "to answer
our phone calls." fv'-.onystates have repealed sooomy laws. Some
cities have housing and employment ordinances. Clinton
announced his support in mid-October of legislation that would
bar most job discrimination against homosexuals. The proposed
Employment Non-Discrimination Act, sponsored by Sens. Ted
Kennedy, ([).MAJ andJamesJeffords, R-VT,and Rep Gerry Stubbs,
D-J\AA,would prohibit job discrimination, quotas or preferential
treatment on the basis of sexual orientation.
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One area that gays and lesbians can work to effect change
is within their own community, which is splintered by divisiveness.
"Why are we so hard on each other?" she asked.
She gave two main reasons. The first is the lack of
homogeneity in the gay-lesbian community, which cuts across
traditional lines of class, color, sexual orientation, economics,
religion and politics. The second is self projection.
"We project our own internalized homophobia and bring
self-deprecation onto our opponents," she said.
A familiar example, she said, is this: "If I'm nothing more than
a lousy queer and you're fighting with me, then you're a lousy
queer too, and you have bad ideas to bcx::>t."
This is something gays and lesbians have the power to
change.
"We can reverse the antis in our own community by starting
with ourselves, by doing things like coming to this conference,"
she said. "We can educate ourselves about our culture and what
it means to each of us as whole people. We can learn to love
this queer we see in the mirror and after that maybe we can begin
to cut each other a break and listen better, work better and when
we fight with each other, treat each other as the noble opponent
worthy of a struggle with us."
She also urged gays and lesbians to reach out to the people
they identify as contributors or leaders in the community and thank
them. It will help reduce rancor, she said.
•·::,,r,,tiev;konti11-:.a'1rom;;pa
9.:iiJ::!1·1·_n!1·!~·;!!::;::;;_;;i.;:::i.;;!11
to because the kids kept outgrowing things, attending parent/
teacher conferences,stopping work to take one of them to the doctor,
chauffeuringthem to school activities and social groups, helping them
learn to drive. It's also meant admiring their accomplishmentsand
trying to remember that they're just kids and we need to be patient
and forgiving when they mess up. We've been sharing with them
our understanding of our religious and cultural inheritance, talking
about moral and ethical dilemmas in their lives, our lives and in our
country.
We attended David's graduation from the University of
Wisconsin this past winter, and helped him move into a new
apartment in Madison. We supplied him with furniture in addition to
the lamps, dishes, and bookcases from the attic we brought for his
previous apartment. After a celebratory dinner, hugging good-bye
was very emotional for all of us. Lastfall we turned into a two-man
writing workshop to help Aaron not only write college applications,
but deal with an Englishteacher whose grasp of her material is shaky
and who has no idea how to offer encouraging and stimulating
suggestionsabout his compositions. We've spent many hourson his
writing because it's so important.
Together, the four of us have rooted for Michigan State'sfootball
team, have gone to every home game, and almost always watched
away games on TV or even listened to them on the radio. We've
flown the Michigan State flag on game days and worn MSU buttons
and MSU's colors, green and white. One year we even took the
kids to the Rose Bowl and spent almost a week enjoying Southern
California.
In many ways, we're a stereotypically American family. Except
that my partner and I are both queer. And we're both Jewish, and
we've been served a warning by the Religious Right that this is not
our country anymore.
11
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VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
All around the U.S., gays and lesbians are under assault, and that
includes physical violence as well as the threats against our liberty.
Cities and states are passing laws that would make discriminating
against us legal. Some states are even rushing to pass laws that
specifically ban samErSexmarriage because they're terrified it will be
legalized in Hawaii and other stateswill have to honor that legality.
Bob Dole's presidentialcampaign returneda $1000 donation from
the gay republican group becau~uote--he
didn't support their
agenda. Does that mean he supports every stand of every group or
individual that gives him money? No, it meansthat gay money is tainted.
School boards around the country are trying to censor classes
attacking teachers who put even the tamest gay literature on a
syllabus. And I mean tame-we're not talking about Dennis Cooper,
we're talking May Sarton. These same school boards are trying to
prevent counselors from talking to gay youth, actually trying to ban
the use of the word Homosexual because it's apparently so powerful,
just mentioning it will turn an entire classroom of studentsgay.
Down in Okemos, when my youngest stepson Aaron wanted to
do a report in his law and society class on gay rights, and bring me
in to be interviewed, the reaction at his high school was
extraordinary. You could have thought he was saying let's bring in
live ammunition, or something radioactive. He was first told he
couldn't do it because anything gay had to be connected to human
sexuality class-ond it wasn't allowed there. His was a social studies
class, even a discussion of gay rights was not appropriate. The
principal got involved, the superintendent did, and only when we
quoted state policy back at them did they admit that it was possible
to talk about gay civil rights in that class.
But the principal sat in the back to make sure that I didn't say
anything objectionable. He was terrified of rightwing parents who
might attack him for letting me on school grounds, so he wanted to
make sure no one could claim I said something I didn't.
Down at MSU there's similar terror of gay issues. Even though
Wayne State and the U of M have granted domestic partner benefits
to gay and lesbian faculty and staff, MSU hasn't gotten that far. Three
years ago, a university-sponsored task force studied gay issues on
campus and strongly urged domestic partner benefits be granted
immediately. This would change the climate on campus.
Hell, even the Disney corporation grants them! So Micky and
Donald can shack up together, and not worry about the future.
Almost every day in the Lansing State Journal there's a letter
spouting hatred at gays and lesbians. Sometimes we're merely
accused of whining and asking for special rights we don't deserve,
because we're sick. More often than not, we're written off as
perverted and damned to hell. Though these people assure the world
that they love us, it's just our sin they can't abide.
Try explaining that very fine distinction to a bunch of teenagers
who feel inspired by their minister or priest's anti-gay sermon to go
out and do a little gay-bashing.
Though we've seen some gains nationally, the last few years
have shown a steady growth in open anti-gay rhetoric.
It started at the 1992 Republican auto-de-fe in Houston.
Patrick Buchanan, Pat Robertsonand other Defendersof the Faith
declared war in no uncertain terms on people of color, women who
think for themselves, feminists, Democrats, lesbians and gays and
Jews. Explicitly and implicitly, we were all branded as uun-American"
and their glorious crusade was to take back the cities, the culture,
and the country that we have supposedly stolen from them.
It seems bizarrely appropriate that this sweeping series of
condemnations and talk of ureligious war" occurred on the 500th
anniversary of the Spanish expulsion of Jews and Moors which
capped Spain's years of efforts to make itself a pure and Catholic
state. The convention also occurred at a time when uethniccleansing•
in Yugoslavia and anti-refugee riots in Germany were reviving
memories of war-time atrocities, slaughter, and mass murder.
Having survived the Soviets and the Nazis, my parents always
had a keen smell for totalitarian rhetoric. My mother used to marvel
at the ways in which some of Spiro Agnew's speeches reminded her
of things that Stalin said. And she hated Nixon in 1960, well before
I had any idea who this pasty-faced man was. uHe's a fascist," she
said with no apology for using the word. So I watched the
Republicans in Houston in 1992 with my parents' eyes, with their
history of murder, tragedy, and loss behind me as a warning.
I was angry. I was ~ared. I watched the faces, watched the eyes
as much as I listened to the words. These were cold and angry men
land some women) who tried only briefly to hide behind Barbara
Bush'sgrandmotherly persona. I call it a persona because she claims
that George Bush is the umostdecent" man she knows-o stunning
assertion. But Mrs. Bushwas just a diversion from the main businessof
the convention: hatred.It was pathetic after the convention when some
Republicans totaled the number of speakers and said that Robertson
and Buchanan were just two among them, and so not really important
or representative. Prime time hatred cannot be diluted so easily.
The rhetoric of hate at the convention isn't new. Its bedrock is
centuries of Jew-hatred, which is so deeply rooted in Western culture
that it seems ineradicable. Jews have been demonized as Christkillers, as murders of children, poisoners of wells during the Black
Plague, as religious and sexual seducers of good Christian men and
women, as burrowing rats set on destroying capitalism and taking it
over. We are eternal outsiders, eternal threats. uGermany Awake!"
was one Nazi call to arms against this threat. Jew-hatred is the
paradigm, and the charge of subversion, pollution, and disease has
been a chief weapon used against us.
When Pat Robertson warned that feminism will force women to
destroy capitalism, murder children, become lesbians, and practice
witchcraft, that image of deadly and insane conspiracydraws on the
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VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DEC~MBER1995
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deep reservoir of Western Jew-hatred and demonizing. Let's not
forget that Buchanan admires Francisco Franco and Michigan's own
Father Coughlin, who had an anti-Semitic radio program in the
1930s that was listened to by millions.
What was different was the vile new package that the
Republicans were test marketing: Superimposed on this Jew-hatred
were racism, misogyny, homophobia and xenophobia.
I never saw the people who tried to kill my parents. I only heard
about, them. Like the anti-Semitic Hungarian soldier in charge of my
fathers slave labor team who threw a hand grenade at him. The
soldier missed, killing someone else, though my father still carries the
burden of shrapnel and nightmares. Or the Polishwoman who hissed
at my mother as she was being led off to a concentration camp:
Good, now you'll get what you deserve!n
When I watched the convention, these were the faces I saw. I
cannot listento thesemen unquietly,without such memorieshaunting me.
And the Republican-controlledCongress elected in 1994 continues
the legacy of intolerance. The Speaker ofthe House saysthat thosewho
disagree with his plans aren't Americans. Dick Armey, the House
Majority leader, referred to openly gay RepresentativeBarney Frankas
BarneyFag. Armey blamed reportersfor not keeping the storyquiet, and
then came up with ludicrous excuses for what he called a slip of the
tongue. That was no mistake-it was a revelation of what he truly felt,
and the sign that hate speech has found a home in Congress.
My parents were not paranoid in teaching me to pay attention
to dangerous men. When Patrick Buchanan said, Make no mistake,
we are at war, n he wasn't kidding. He means it. Watch his face
and the faces of his allies next time they're on TV. Watch the faces of
the Republicans now lording it in Congress. Look into their eyes. They
could be your future.
Don't let that happen. Fight them in any way you can. If you're
out or not, make a difference. Be vocal, make noise, let people know
the danger we're all facing, write letters, donate money, explain the
danger to your straight friends. Get them involved.
I want to end with lines from Joe Beam, a black gay writer who
died of AIDS. In his anthology In the Life,he says:
I cannot go home as who I am. When I speak of home, I mean
not only the familial constellation from which I grew, but the entire
Black community; the Black press, the Black church, Black
academicians, the Black literati, and the Black left. Where is my
reflection? I am most often rendered invisible, perceived as a threat
to the family, or am tolerated if I am silent and inconspicuous. I cannot
go home as who I am and that hurts me deeply.
For *Black* substitute the community or background you came
from, and I think most of us could say the same thing about ourselves.
Well, we mustgo home, and we must be who we are-if we're
ever going to change things.
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•
An Overview, by M'Lynn Hartwell
After attending the wonderful and inspiring Lesbian and Gay
History and Education Day weekend (October 20th - 22nd.) event
at Sugar Loaf Resort, I returned home curious to learn more.
I wondered, where did the idea of October as Lesbian, Gay,
and Bisexual History Month originate? I found that Lesbian,Gay, and
Bisexual History Month began with an original concept by Rodney
Wilson, a St. Louis high sch(X)I history teacher who was appalled at
the failure of his 800-page textboo~ to mention any gay, lesbian, or
bisexual history whatsoever. He organized a grass;(X)ts network of
teachers and community members across the country who began
working to see October recognized as Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual
History Month.
Inspired by such existing celebrations as Black History Month
!February) and Women's History Month (March), organizers sought
to create a time when special attention could be focused on the
contributions of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people to world history.
October was chosen as the month in which to celebrate our history
and to build upon existing traditions like National Coming Out Day,
which already takes place in October. October also hosted the
anniversaries of the first two marches on Washington organized by
gay, lesbian, and bisexual activists, first in 1979 and a much larger
one in 1987.
Whathappened
lastyear?
Organizations like the Human Rights Campaign Fund, the
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, and the Gay and Lesbian
Alliance Against Defamation quickly endorsed the idea. A volunteer
national coordinating council, with representatives from across the
nation, began work over the summer to plan activities in their
communities. In October, political leaders such as Senator Barbara
Boxer (CA), Governors William Weld (MA) and Lowell Weicker !CT)
and Mayors Richard Daley (Chicago) and Thomas Menino (Boston)
also issued proclamations to celebrate this inaugural event. Local
coordinating councils in areas as diverse as Boston, Chicago, San
Antonio, San Francisco, and St. Louisstaged a myriad of events, and
numerous media outlets covered the. story, raising the public's
awareness of this history to a higher level throughout the nation.
Over 300 curriculum and organizing packets were distributed
to individuals and organizations around the country who requested
help in planning events. These accomplishments become all the more
impressive when one realizes that all work was done by volunteers
who had no i[ldependent budget to support these activities. The bulk
of the work for Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual History Month is done on
a local level.
WhatHappened
ThisYear?
In Northern Michigan we were honored to hear keynote speaker
LevRaphael, one of the country's best known gay writers. In addition,
Lev's life partner, Gershen Kaufman, led a workshop °Coming Out
of Shame." Other workshops included: "Homophobia, The Internal
and External Oppressor" moderated by Lee Shaw, MSW. Tim
Retzloff came all the way from Ann Arbor to present "The History of
Gays and Lesbiansin Michigan." A workshop on spirituality was led
by the openly gay Episcopal priest Zalmon Sherwood.
Another workshop, on "Womyn's and Mehn's Music, n was led
by Ann Perrault and Jackie Victor. Gay and Lesbian Health Issues
was co-moderated by Joseph Bertucci and Brenda Bartz. Jan
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
8
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
Property of the Ce t~r
Stevenson,the ExecutiveDirector of Affirmationsin Detroit presented
the topic »who are the Anti-Gay/Lesbian People?" during the
absolutely maNelous luncheonon Saturday.
Throughout the rest of the weekend we were entertained and
informed by a plethora of wonderful local talent via skits, one act
stage readings, music and round table discussions. Kudos to Patty
and the many other wonderful women and men who donated
counttess hours of their volunteer time and effort to create this
phenomenally successfuland productive day.
If you did not have the opportunity to attend Friends North,
Inc., Lesbian and Gay History and Education Day this year. I
believe that this is one event you will definitely not want to miss in
the future. In the meanwhile, I would like to submit the following
materials for your enjoyment and continuing enlightenment.
A Few GoodBoolcs
Chauncey, George, Duberman, Martin, and Vicinus,
Martha. "Hidden from History: Reclaiming the Gay and Lesbian
Past." A multi-culturalcollection spanning over two millennia of
history.
Duberman, Martin. "Stonewall." Details the organizing and
events leading up to the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York, a
key event in modern gay history.
Faderman, Lillian. "Odd Girls and Twilight Lovers:A History
of Lesbian Life in 20th Century America." Surveys the lesbian
experience in U.S. during this century.
Jennings, Kevin. "Becoming Visible: A Reader in Gay and
Lesbian History for High School and College Students." A
comprehensive reader with ideas for teachers to use when
incorporating this material into their classes.
Katz, Jonathan Ned. "Gay American History." A definitive
collection of primary documents covering the entire scope of the
subject.
Kaufman, Gershen and Raphael, Lev. "Coming Out of
Shame: Transforming Gay and Lesbian Lives." Available January
1996
Marcus, Eric. "Making History: The Struggle for Gay and
Lesbian Equal Rights 1945-1990," An Oral History. Fascinating
interviewswith well-known and not so well-known individuals who
played important roles in the modem gay movement.
Miller, Neil. Out of the Past: Gay and Lesbian History from
1869 to the Present. A good survey of primarily Western gay
history.
A Few Good
Films.
"Before Stonewall." Covers the history of America's gay
community from the Twenties until the Sixties.
"Coming Out Under Fire: The History of Gay Men and
Women in World War Two." Details the role of the war in
shaping early gay communities.
"Common Threads: Stories form the Quilt." The 1990
Academy Award-winning documentary which explains the early
years of the AIDS epidemic through storiesfrom the Names Project
Quilt.
"Last Call at Maud's." Explains the development of lesbian
communities in mid-twentiethcentury America through the storyof
a San Francisco lesbian bar.
"The Times of Harvey Milk." The 1984 Academy Awardwinning documentary on the life of Harvey Milk, who in 1978
became the first openly gay man to be elected to a municipal
post in America.
Institutions
A Few Good
Affirmations. A Lesbian/Gay Community Center. 195 West
Nine Mile Road, Ferndale Ml 48220 (810)398-7105, fax:
(810)541-1943, helpline: (800)398-GAYS, TDD: (810)3986960, email: affirmglcc@aol .com
The Center for Lesbianand Gay Studiesat the City University
of New York. The nation's pre-eminenthigher education research
institutionon the subject. 33 W. 42 St., New York, NY l 00368099 (212) 642-2924
Gerber /Hart Gay & Lesbian Library & Archives. Provides
resources and support to community members and researchers.
3352 N. Paulina, Chicago, IL 60657 (312) 883-3003 (fax)
(312) 883-3078
Lesbian Herstory Archives & Educational Foundation. The
leader in resources relating specifically to lesbian herstory. Box
1258, New York, NY l 0 116 (718}-768-3953 (fax) (718) 7684663
Project 21 . Advocates with state school boards and
education agencies for inclusivecurricular policies so that full, fair,
and factual information about lesbian, gay, and bisexual history
is included in textbooks. Also provides materials such as a
"Famous Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual People in History" poster.
c/oJessea Greenman, 586 62 St. Oakland, CA 94609 (51 OJ
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VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
by Greg R. Baird
Hello Friends. After getting back from teaching theatre on
the East Coast this summer, I thought I'd take a break from
writing and get back into the swing of things. I'm glad to be
writing again and hope everyone had a great summer and that
the Autumn has been beautiful for you.
The past few months I have been reflecting on what it was
like for me to start a new school year as a teenager growing
up. I think about our gay and lesbian teens and hope they have
some kind of an outlet where they can express themselves and
feel a "safe haven" within their own communities. Growing
up gay and lesbian for most of us was extremely difficult.
During the '70s, when I was a teenager, educators weren't
addressing homophobia and that left us in an environment of
a physically and psychologically unsafe place to learn.
There is a slow change occurring across the nation to develop
Gay/Straight Youth Alliances within the school. Under the
supervision of educators or advisors, the students would run the
meetings and discuss topics of interest to them. No one makes
assumptions about any members sexual orientation and
confidentiality is always maintained. Faculty members also
participate on an equal basis with the students. Of course, there
are people out there who think these kinds of programs shouldn't
exist, that we are, as educators, are trying to seduce children to
"come to the other side" and promote our personal agenda. We,
as a gay community, know that's not true. Our school years were
hell at times and if we had someone out there to reach out to for
compassion and respect our lives would have been much easier.
In the wonderful book, "One Teacher in Ten," author,
Kevin Jennings writes about his own fear as a gay teacher
trying to help a gay student. This is an excerpt from that book.
"Jerry, I wish I had followed you, or reached out to you at some
other time. I should have broached the taboo subject, assured
you that you were not evil or weird and, above all, that you
were not alone. But I was afraid. What'teacher wouldn't be
in a small, Catholic, homophobic high school in Texas."
GLSTN, The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Teachers Network, is
starting a campaign to get gay, lesbian and bisexual adults to
write their old high schools, tell them what it was like to be
gay there, and ask what is being done to make it better for the
next generation.
There are many educators that think
homophobia is not a problem in their community. We know
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Shamanismisthemostancientmethodofmind-body
healing.
Shamans the world over saw illness as a break in our
spiritualessencecausingdebilitationand disease.
Trauma or negative energy from another person causes
spiritualbreak resultingin lossof power,soul lossor spirit
intrusion.
Symptom of power loss are
chronic bad luck, illness, frequent
accidents or low self esteem.
Symptom of soul loss are empty
feelings, depression, loss of
vitality, gaps in memory and long
grieving periods.
When we are dispirited, who helps us? We have doctors for
the body and mind. As a practicing shaman, Nancy
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ERNIE DAWSON
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this not to be true. I am asking anyone reading this to take
time out and write a letter to your school. We need to be the
next wave of influence for our gay and lesbian youth. I am
sure that, once they have received a letter from a former student
who tells them exactly what it is like to be gay at their school,
they'll understand the issue in a new way.
As adults we have a responsibiitty to make sure the world
our gay and lesbian teenagers experience is less painful, more
hopeful, and that they can follow their dreams just as anyone
else can. We can make a change together.
If you have any thoughts on this or have any stories of
growing up gay and lesbian, please feel free to send me those
through the newsletter or at NMIGreg@AOL. COM. I would
Iike to hear from you.
I promise confidentiality on any material I receive. Until
next ti me, peace.
Nancy has her training from the Foundation for Shamanic
Studies. For information or for an appointment call her at
616-223-7999.
•
Antiques
10
VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER1995
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11
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER
1995
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS:
FRIENDS NORTH BOARD AND MEMBER MEETINGS: The
Friends North Board meets on the first Tuesday of each month at
6:30 pm at Northwestern Michigan College, West Hall on the first
floor, Room 2 in the cafeteria. Everyone is welcome! (issue 6)
FRIENDS NORTH RAP GROUP is a group of men and women
who get together monthly for lively discussion on a particular topic
and a good time. Please consider joining them on the second
Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church,
349 Washington, T.C. Look for the Rap Group announcement
elsewhere in this issue of the newsletter. (issue 6)
P-FLAG: (Parents,Friends and Families of Lesbiansand Gays.) This
is a network of parents, friends, and families of lesbians and gays
who meet monthly to offer information, support, and a place to talk
with others about the issuesconcerning them. Gays and Lesbiansare
also welcome to attend P-FlAG meetings. Meet at Grace Episcopal
Church every third Wednesday of the month, at 7: 30 pm. For more
information call Cindy at 271-5045 (Issue 2)
WINDFIRE: This is a local youth support group for teens and others
under 25 which meets on a weekly basis in an atmosphere that is
comfortable and friendly. Please contact Third Levelat 922-4800 or
1-800-442-7315 for location, date and time. (issue 6)
OUT 1 N ABOUT is a lesbian coffeehouse featuring entertainment
as well as a chance to meet others from the area. It all happens al
the Unity Church, 3600 Five Mile Rd. in T.C. Please see the Out 'N
About calendar elsewhere in this newsletter for limes and specific
activities. (issue 6)
TRAVERSE CITY FRONTRUNNERS If you are interested in
running, call Paul or Jim at 271-4510 and leave your name, number,
and that you are interested in Frontrunners.We will return your call
with information on where lo meet. We're back running as a group
for the fall and winter again. All ages and abilities are welcome.
(issue6)
WELLNESS NETWORKS SUPPORT GROUP is for people
with HIV or AIDS and they welcome you lo attend. Please drop in
Monday evenings from 6:00 lo 7:30 al the Grace Episcopal Church
library al 341 Washington in Traverse City. Every fourth Monday of
the month the Significant-Other Support Group will be meeting at
3301 Veterans Drive, Suite 221, just north of S. Airport Road. For
further information, please call 933-0279 (issue 6)
THE PETOSKEY GROUP: A social group for lesbian, gay and
bi-sexual persons is meeting weekly in Petoskey.The group meetsat
7 p.m. Thursdays at the Park Garden Cafe on Lake Street. For
information please contact Tim at 348-8151 or Zalmon at 3485079 (issue 2)
NORTHERN MICHIGAN WOMYN'S
CHOIR is always
looking for new voices. To obtain more information or for a
performance schedule, please contact Deb at 275-5924. (issue6)
H.A.N.D.S is an HIV/ AIDS Network located in Petoskey.They
are currently seeking volunteers in the northern lower peninsula and
eastern upper peninsula of Michigan. HANDS is a non-profit
organization that has committed itself lo helping and supporting the
needs of HIV infected persons. They offer a number of services,
including support groups, education, public awareness, and one-onone friendship support. Volunteersare urgently needed in the Alpena,
Gaylord, and Rogers City areas. If you would be interested in the
program, please call 616-526-9213. (issue l)
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
12
Meetings for gays and lesbians
are held each Wednesday at 5:30 pm and each Saturday at 11 :00
am at the FriendsMeeting House, 5th and Oak Streets
in TC. For further info, call John at 922-07 46
(issue 6)
~
....J....
c:::::::~s:iii~oliiciii'its
.. ~t-.:.,.,
::.::_:_\-:si_\p
__
D.C. QUILT: I am putting together a group of
people who are interestedin going to Washington next October to see
the entire Names ProjectQuilt. Pleasecontact me, Tom, at 616-9474647 or write: 208 Circle Dr.,Apt. C, TraverseCity, 49684. (issue3)
LESBIAN BOOK CATALOGUE AVAILABLE: Heartland is a
mail order company run by Linda Weiss and Joyce McKeeman out
of their home in rural Corinth, Vermont. They are pleased to
announce the arrival of the new edition of their catalogue, featuring
120 selections of lesbian interest... both fiction and non, as well as
a selection of cards, calendars and videos. Free by writing to POB
1105A, East Corinth, VT 05040. (issue6)
WORLD AIDS DAY will be remembered on December 1st, at
6:00 p.m. al Central United Methodist Church on Cass St.
Organizer and volunteer coordinator, Jim Carruthers, announced that
the evening will consistof a memorial service, and then, a candlelight
walk through downtown T.C. After the walk, people will gather at a
local restaurant to warm up, get to know each other and share
memories. Additional information can be obtained by calling Jim at
the Wellness office: 933-0279.
PLEASE SPONSOR OUR POSTCARD PROJECT: They do
make a difference! The cost for printing the 3000 postcards is
$85. 00. To contribute specifically to the PostcardProject, please call
Richard at 271-3042 or send a check (in an amount of $85.00 or
less)directly to Friends North.(issue 6)
QUESTIONS ABOUT HIV AND AIDS? Call locally 24 hoursa
day lo 947-1 110. This program is sponsored by the HIV/ AIDS
Wellness Networks Grand Traverse Area and is staffed by Third
Level Crisis Center volunteers. (Issue6)
WASHINGTON
THE UNITARIAN
UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION of
Petoskey is pleased to announce it will begin providing public
services in the liberal religious tradition. Sunday serviceswill be held
at the Temple B'nai Israel on the corner of Waukazoo and Michigan
Street in downtown Petoskey. Services will be held on alternate
Sundays with dates disclosed in their newsletter, Diversity. Pleasecall
348-31 17 for details or write to us at POB 271, Petoskey, Ml
49770-0271 (Issue6)
HATE CRIMES WATCH: The l riangle Foundationof Michigan has
begun a V1CTIMS'PROGR.A!v'I
CO/vVv\UNITYWATCH COALITION.
The group will collect hate-crime information from Lesbian and Gay
victims of such crimes. For details, call 313-533-1166 or 517-7539823. Report Hate Crimes! Stop the Violence! (issue6)
GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT:
Their Reproductive Health Clinic is open to women and men of all
ages. Confidential services provided are physical exams, HIV
counseling and testing, pregnancy testing, sexual transmitteddisease
testing and treatment, all methods of birth control available, FREE
Norplants, Depo-Provera, IUDs, and Condoms. For more info about
these and other methods which are charged on a sliding fee scale,
call 922-4630. Services are by appointment only. (issue6)
VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER1995
WORLD AIDS DAY will be remembered on December first, al
6:30 p.m. at Central United Methodist Church on Cass St.
Organizer and volunteerC(X)rdinalor,Jim Carruthers,announced that
the evening will consistof a memorial service, and then, a candlelight
walk through downtown T.C. Afier the walk, people will gather al a
local restaurant to warm up, get to know each other and share
memories. Additional information can be obtained by calling Jim al
the Wellness office: 933-0279. Everyone is encouraged to attend.
FOR RENT IN INTERLOCHEN: 2 Bedr(X)m mobile home with
utilities incl. $525./mo. plus security deposit. County snowplow in
winter. 25 min. to T.C. Quiet, country setting in 40a bf woods with
hiking trails. W~stove
and oil furnace to keep you cozy during
SOUTHEAST
MICHIGAN:
cold winter months. References req'd. Sorry, no pets. Carol: 2766329 (issue 6)
Between The lines, Michigan's monthly newspaper serving the
NEW HOUSES for sale in gay neighborh~ in lnterlochen. Please gay, lesbian, lransgender and bisexual communities, has been in
call Dane for more information. 616-276-9125 (issue6)
existence for three years. Now, the paper will be under new
ownership with Jan Stevensonand Susan Horowitz leading this wellknown and respected newspaper.
Known for her leadership role in Michigan's gay and lesbian
Bl-WHITE MALE, 48, professional and secure, 154 lbs., 5'9", communityas ExecutiveDirectorof Affirmations,Jan startedher career
In shape, New to scene. Seeking friends in northernMichigan. Enjoy as a corporate banker. Her partner, Susan, has been a publisherfor
boating, skiing, sports cars. Write POB 254, Roscommon, Ml over 20 years. She founded Tower Press in New York and has
48653 (issue 6)
published New York and San FranciscoPride Guides for years.
MY NAME IS Walkeea Harris., #211655. I'm 28, height is 5'9",
Together, they have many plans for change, but will continue to
weight 187#. Blue-hazeleyes, sandy brown hair. I'm a transsexual. focus on news, community information and events. BTL can be
Measurements 36-33-36. I enjoy music, quiet nights at home reached at 313-961-4682 in Ann Arbor.
watching a g~
movie with a friend. I welcome hones and real
In Michigan, public universities are taking the lead among
people. I'm soon to be released, Marchi 1996. Walkeea Harris,
employers in extending benefits, including valuable health insurance
#211655, POB 5000, Carson City, Ml 48811 (issue6)
packages, to the domestic partnersof its gay and lesbian employees.
U-M now is offering the benefits for the second year, and
Wayne Stale began insuring partnersthis month. The faculty al MSU
CARETAKER WANTED: For women-only resort. For details, just endorsed a similar package and is awaiting trustee approval.
CMU staffers promise to keep pushing for a partners package.
contact Marge and Joanne's at 616-334-3346 (issue6)
At U-M, about 84 same-sexcouples have registeredfor benefits.
At WSU, l l couples have been approved.
Around the country, only about 5 percent of the nation's colleges
offer benefits to its gay employees.
SAUGATUCK:
A "Saugatuck Summit" was held by gay leaders on September
20th to launch a dialogue on issues facing the gay and lesbian
community. Leadersfrom the National Gay and LesbianTask Force,
the Triangle Foundation, and Michigan Democratic Party were in
by RichardTuxbury attendance along with about 60 other interested people.
Traverse
Oty:
Responding to what Triangle Foundation leaders are calling
THE COMING OUT DAY FllM FESTIVALheld by Friends North "crucial events for gays on the national stage" this summitwas the
was a great success. Despite it being mid-week, almost 40 people first state meeting of its kind to address broad concerns of gays.
from the community spent the evening watching films and Leadersexpected it lo become the beginning of a statewide political
participating in the social hour. Many talked about wanting lo see alliance of gay and lesbian activists.
something on a more regular basis, such as what Out 'N About has
done, with their running of new releases, such as The Incredibly True
CommunityNotes
Adventures
of 2
Girls In Love.
WELLNESS NETWORKS said g~-bye
to two amazing
women who have been with the organization for a long lime. Br(X)ke
Borgeson-Gray and Nv:Jry Merwin completed their terms on the
Board at Wellness, afier providing the backbone and the strength
for the organization for many years. Board President,Joe Bertucci,
summed up his feelings for the two women in the last issue of their
newsletter: • ... Nv:Jryand Br(X)keofien provided the stuff required lo
hold us all together. They were the ones with the •vision." There are
so few people out there with •vision," and so many with hind sight. ..
As a person who has lost l(X) many friends to this awful disease, I
would like to say God BlessYou for taking care of so many people
who needed lo know that somebody cared. I love you both."
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
13
LASERPERFECTPWS Inc.
616 • 947-1965 'Y Fax• 947-1816
❖
Typesetting
& Design
Offset& RaisedPrinting
❖ MallingLists& Marketing
❖ Desktop
Publlshlng
Service
❖ Complete
Resume
Service
❖
~-:t,.,
·~®
5( CoplesAll The Time!
TRAVERSECITY'SUNION PRINT SHOP
VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER1995
STATE AND NATIONAL HOTLINES
Department
of JusticeHotline(forreporting
HateCrimesagainstgaysandlesbians) ...........
ChildAbuseHotline ...............................
Michigan
WellnessNetworks........................
Gay/Lesbian
NationalYouthHotline..................
LOCAL SPIRITUAL:
800-347-HATE
800-392-8222
800-872-AIDS
800-347-TEEN
STATEWIDE SERVICES
SOCIAL / POLITICAL / MEDIA
TheReverend
EmmyLouBelcher
Unitarian
Universalist
Fellowship
of GrandTraverse
6726CenterRd.,Traverse
City-Home:938-9078.. Office:947-3117
Rev.NancyHayward,
Circleof theSacredEarth.........
616-223-7999
LOCAL COUNSELING:
ThirdLevelCrisisIntervention,
902W. FrontSt. . . . . . . . . . . . . 922-4800
........................................
and800-442-7315
TheNetwork:
LesbianandGayCommunity
Network
of W. Michigan
Women's
Resource
Center.............................
941-1210
909CherrySt.S.E.,GrandRapids,Ml t.1.9506
........ 616-458-3511 RodgerLandvoy,
PHD ................................
929-1711
MetroGayMonthly(newspaper)
SusanBreuerPHD(Frankfort
I Traverse
City) .............
352-4261
232E. MarshallSt.Ferndale,
Ml48220 .............
810-544-0809 MargoMillion,ACSW .................................
947-0511
Lavender
Morning
DavidBlisk(MapleCity) ...............................
228-5105
P.O.Box729,Kalamazoo,
Ml49005 ...............
616-685-6061 Barbara
JonesSmith,PHD.............................
947-1444
Kalamazoo
Resource
Center
Elizabeth
Most,MSW,ACSW(Petoskey)
..................
348-2415
P.O.Box1532,Kalamazoo,
Ml 49005 ..............
616-345-7878 WilliamD.Gould,MA(Gladwin)......................
517-426-2351
Affirmations
Lesbian/Gay
Community
Center
DavidRushlow,
ACSW,MunsonMedicalCenter. . . . . . . . . . . . 935-6385
Suite110,195W. NineMileRd.
BayAreaCounseling
(Petoskey/Harbor
Springs)
webpage:http://www.webspace.com/~tcc/affirmations/index.htme MargaloBley,MSW,ACSW.........................
348-3616
Ferndale,
Ml 48220............................
313-398-GAYS DanielC. Doran,PHD,CSW ........................
906-635-9263
LansingAssociation
of HumanRights
CDRS(a freesubstance
abusereferralagency)
P.O.Box18062,Lansing,Ml48826................
517-332-3200
808-AS.Garfield,
Traverse
City ......... 929-1315
or 800-686-0749
CapitalMen'sClub
P.O.Box18062,Lansing,Ml48902... (KellyStevens)
517-482-0860
LOCAL SERVICE / SOCIAL / POLITICAL
Ambitious
Amazons/Lesbian
Connection
FriendsNorth(information
line) .........................
946-1804
P.O.Box811,EastLansing,Ml48826..............
517-371-5257 WindfireGay& LesbianYouthSupportGroup-Lesbian
Alliance
CallThirdLevelforlocation& time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 922-4800
P.O.Box6423,EastLansing,Ml48826.............
517-394-1454
or ...........................................
800-4427315
TriangleFoundation
(Lesbian/Gay
Foundation
of Michigan)
SideTraxxNileClub,520Franklin
St.offof 8thSt. .........
935-1666
19641W.SevenMileRd.,Detroit48219 ............
313-537-3323 Traverse
CityHumanRightsCommission,
400Boardman. . . . 922-4700
Anonymous,
.......................................
Fax: 313-537-3379 GayAlcoholics
FriendsChurch,206S.Oakat 5thSt.,TC ..........
John922-0746
PRIDE-Flint:
P.O.Box7014,Flint,Ml 48507 ............
313-238-9854
P-FLAG,
Traverse
City
AuroraNewsletter:
(reaching
outto gays,lesbians,bisexuals
in theUP&
POB1705,Acme,Ml49610....................
Cindy271-5045
Canada)POB626,Marquette,
Ml49855
NOW(National
Organization
forWomen)
TeamGreatLakes
GailTrill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 938-1333
195W. NineMileRd.,Suite106,Ferndale,
Ml48220 . 810-553-3586
LOCAL HIV/ AIDS HEALTH COUNSELING:
NATIONAL SERVICE / SOCIAL / POLITICAL
Wellness
Networks,
GrandTraverse,
P-FLAG:
ParentsandFriendsof Lesbians
andGays
P.O.
Box
1632,
Traverse
City,Ml49685 ...............
947-1110
101214thSt.NW,Ste.700,Washington,
DC20005... 202-638-4200
Wellness
HIV
Support
Group
and
GLAAD:
Gay/Lesbian
AllianceAgainstDefamation
FamilyandSignificant
OtherSupport
Group ............
947-1110
80 VarickSt.,#3E,NewYork,NY10013 ............
212-807-1700
Grand
Traverse
County
Health
Department
................
922-4831
e-mail ...............................
GLAADNATL@aol.com
(anonymous
HIVTestingCenter)
.......................................
Fax: 212-807-1806
Mary
Dillinger,
RN,
ClinicalNurseSpecialist...............
935-8140
National
GayandLesbianTaskForce .................
202-332-6483
Munson
Medical
Center
HIV
Clinic
...............
1-800-847-8474
232017thSt.,NW,Washington,
DC20009. . . . . Fax: 202-332-0207
Community
HealthClinic...............................
929-4448
LambdaLegalDefenseandEducation
Fund
(anonymous
counseling/testing;
same-day
results
no
fee)
666Broadway,
NewYork,NY10012...............
212-995-8585
H.A.N.D.S.
(HIV/AIDS
Support:
Petoskey)............
1-800-248-6777
ACLULesbian/Gay
RightsProject
1370MissionSt.,SanFrancisco,
CA94130 .........
415-621-0674
HRC:HumanRightsCampaign
(National
ComingOutDay)
101214thSt. NS#607,Washington,
DC20005 ...... 202-628-4160
HERE
ARESOME
PHONE
NUMBERS
EVERYONE
SHOULD
HAVE:
e-mail ....................................
www@hrcusa.org
TheWMeHouse
(202)456-1111;
theU.S.Capital
(202)224-3121;
numbers
forNorthwest
Michigan
Residents--Carl
Levin(202)
224.......................................
Fax: 202-347-5323 andsomephone
6221
or
in
TC
(616)
947-9569;
Spencer
Abraham
(202)
224-4822
or
in
Grand
Rapids
GayandLesbianVictoryFund,PoliticalActionCommittee
(616)
456-2592;
BartStupak
(202)225-4735
orinTC929-4711
101214thSt. NW#707,Washington,
DC20005..... 202-842-7679
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
14
VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
C
Sl Dear Editor
Dear Editor,
;-g-~
-,
I would like to commend and thank FriendsNorth for the Gay and
How much more will we tolerate?
Cl)
LesbianHistory and Education Day held on October 21.
I found it interesting in Richard Tuxburys last
Mony times during the day I found myself going back through
newsletter article where he states "Michelle
.£ time, though my own coming out process, my strong need and
/lk;Manus needs to use the "G" word. She, like
appreciation of communityand the strugglesI deal with now as an out
the City Commission needs to state, for the record,
..:: professionallesbian.
that she condones no violence and will tolerate
i
As I sat through the workshops, the talks, the plays ~::mdmusic, I
no discrimination against gays and lesbians. It is
::-- felt joy because I knew there is gay-lesbian community in Northern
our governing bodies and our elected officials
Michigan and the nation and that we have a rich historyand culture.
who set the stage for violence and hate crimes,
I thoughtabout the importanceof FriendsNorth and the newsletter,
and who, by their inaction, give subtte endorsement to
which has done so muchto help us get togetherand stay togetherover
discrimination."
a long period of time. I owe Richard Tuxbury, the Networking 45°
I know that being out there and active in the lesbian/ gay
editor, and all the people who have been part of the newsletterover
community is not for everyone. I am not saying that you have to
the years, a big debt of gratitude. For years, when I was deep in the
be. But if we do not find someway to bring acts of discrimination
closet, it was my only link to a communityof braver soulsthan myself.
against us to the forefront, then we are fostering our own
I thought about the dances FriendsNorth used to have. I thought
discrimination. There are ways to let people know what is about the Out 'n About LesbianCoffeehouse, now two years old, and
happening. There are people on the front lines who will listen and the Northern Michigan Womyn's Choir.
action can be taken to let those that think we are already
I thought about all of my straight friends and the church I attend
protected know what's going on. But we can't do it if we don't that accepts and loves me as I am.
know about it.
I have a lot I am thankful for. I was especially taken with Jan
One right we do have that is not taken from us is that of voting. Stevenson'ssuggestion at the History and Education day that we all
Reneand I were recentty invited to attend a seminar in Saugatuek reach out and thank three people we identify as leaders in our
dealing with the political atmosphere in 1996 and the role the communityand tell them we appreciate what they are doing.
It was no accident, I think, that the two workshops that drew the
lesbian/ gay movement will play in that. The organizers of the event
biggest crowds on October 21 were sessions that dealt with
brought in as speakers, Mark Brewer, Chair of The Michigan
internalized homophobia.
Democratic Party, fvlelinda Paras, Director of The National Gay
The morning sessionwas called "Homophobia: The Internaland
and Lesbian Task Force and Jeff /V\ontgomery, President of The
External
Oppressor,• led by local counselor Lee Shaw. An afternoon
Triangle Foundation. As I listened to the speakers, my feelings were
workshop,
•coming Out of Shame,• was presented by Okemos
confirmed it was not going to beany easier this election year than
psychologist
Gershen Kauffman, who has done some of the national
in '92. Matter of fact, it is going to bean even more critical election
ground-setting
work on shame issues.
for the lesbian/ gay movement. In 1996 if the lesbian/ gay
I
would
like
to ask the FriendsNorth board, possibly in connection
community does not get out and vote we will have done ourselves
P-FLAG,
to
consider
holding some workshops, a weekend retreat,
with
a great disservice. We can pretty well rest on the fact that we can
or professionally-leddiscussiongroups on internalized homophobia
make a difference in the outcome of elections. We did that in
1992. Our community was a major part of Clinton getting elected. and shame.
Thinking of my own experience, I could not come out beyond a
We are a strong community with a voice, just like the right wing.
small circle of family and friends until I dealt with my internal
We can play a crucial role not only nationally, but also locally.
homophobia, which was fueled by my shame issues.
We need to be out there voting in every election whether it is for
For me, growing up in a homophobic societywas an emotionally
city commission, school board or county boards. It doesn't matter,
and psychologically battering experience. I am still clearing away
we need to have our voice heard.
some of the scar tissue.
It is not to early to think about 1996 and I hope you too will
I did internalize the world's homophobia and became my own
use your voice and vote. You can make a difference!
oppressor. I felt great shame, that something was intrinsically wrong
Pam Haley
1
J
HAIR
FORCE
ONE
801 West Front Street
Traverse
Cit.y. Ml 49684
For Appointment
Call
941-8255
Mark Lizenby
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
15
VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER1995
and defective about me. Deep down, I simply hated myself and
didn't even know it because I had repressed so much in order to
survive psychologically.
It wasn't until recent years-through the help of a combination
of a more loving Christian philosophy than what I grew up with, other
spiritual principles of compassion, love, service, personal
responsibility, and healing models followed by adult survivors of
childhood abuse-that I could come first to accept and love myself
and then come out.
I personally would like to see a community discussion of this
continue. I felt that we just got started on October 21 .
Thanks again to everyone involved in the education and history
day. It was wonderful.
Sincerely,
Loraine Anderson.
Dear /I/Ir. PatrickArcher
Thank you for contacting my office to share your concerns about
the issueof homosexual rights. The thoughtful input I receive from citizens
like you not only helps keep me informed, but also enables me to
effectively deal with difficult issueslike this.
In regard to this matter, I believe Michigan should retain its current
laws, which are among the strongestcivil rights statutesin the nation. In
other words, the state should neither create legal burdens nor additional
benefits for individuals based on sexualorientation. In addition, let me
reiterate my long-standing opposition to discrimination, intolerance,
prejudice, and crimes of hate. There is no place in Michigan for
behavior of this kind.
Again, thank you for contacting my office. I appreciate you taking
the time to share your thoughts with me.
Sincerely
John Engler, Governor
Dear Colleague:
Millions of dollars every year ACMIright' from the pockets of your
constituentsinto the coffers of organized homosexuality.
Directly... $10,000 to the National Gay Health Education
Foundation; $372,000 to the National AssociationofBlack and White
Men Together; $544,000 to the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian
Community Services Center; $211,000 to the Gay and Lesbian
Adolescent Social Services; $521,000 to the National Latino Lesbian
and Gay Organization; $17,000 to the National Lesbian and Gay
Health Foundation.
Indirectly... $360,000 to the Sex Information and Education
Council of the U.S.; $232,000 to the National School Health
Education Coalition; $239,000 to the California ProstitutesEducation
Project; $340,000 to the Planned Parenthood Federation ofAmerica;
$187,000 to the National Organization for Women; $480,000 to
the National Education Association; $313,000 to the National
LeadershipCoalition on AIDS.
Further, nearly every federal department and agency uses tax
dollars to fund and support organized homosexuality.Do you care? Did
you know?
Call my office and do two things. First,ask to cosponsor my bill HR
862 to prohibit funds from supporting organized homosexuality.
Second, ask for the 146-page paper "How Congress Supports and
FundsOrganized Homosexuality•prepared bymy staff.My staffcontact
is Paul Mero at x5295.
Sincerely
Robert K. Dornan, U.S. Congressman, California
Arch-homophobe Bob Doman said on CNN's Inside Politics recently
that the anti-gay extremism that has marked his Congressional career
would be •way down the list" during the Presidentialcampaign. Recent
activity by Dornan in the House, such as this lettershow that heis justas
extremistas ever-and is using tax-payersdollars to promote hisextreme
anti-gay agenda. He is exploiting his sub::ommitteechair to attack HIVpositive men and women, and to undermineAIDS prevention programs
that save people's lives.
The bill sponsored by Bob Dornan, HR 862 would "prohibit the
useof federal fundsto promote homosexuality.•The bill reads as folkms:
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representativesof the
United Statesof America in Congress assembled, Section l. Prohibition
on useof federal funds to promote homosexuality.No federal fundsmay
be used directly or indirectly to promote, condone, accept, or celebrate
homosexuality, lesbianism or bisexuality.
HR 862 would eradicate AIDS education and preventionprograms
from federal workplaces and public schools.
FRIENDS NORTH. INC.. P.O. BOX 562. TRAVERSE CITY. Ml 49685-0562
YES. I want to be a supporting member of the Friends North Organization.
0 Single: $12.00 0 Couple: $18.00 (includes one-year newsletter subscription)
I am enclosing an additional: 0 10.00 0 20.00 0 40.00
0 Other __
_
and I would like to see this used for: 0 Newsletter
O Phoneline/Publicity
0 All of the above
s-
gD
~ ....
f!!. $:
n
O Community Needs
Total Enclosed$__
_
38
~
Name(s)____________________________
ir:r
_
Address ______________________________
_
City __________________
Phone _____________________________
ST___
_ ZIP _____
_
_
o
fl
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THE FIN MAILING LIST IS STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL AND OUR MAILINGS COME IN AN UNMARKED ENVELOPE.
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
16
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
Thanksgiving
Holiday
Free Food Friday Night 6-9
Open Regular Hours
December 1-World
Enioy Home Cooked Food
Bring a dish to pass if you want
(Not required to partake)
AIDS Day
Join us aher the services
I
I
No Cover Fridays ALL Winter
SideTraxx has a
Brand New Heating & Cooling System
You Will Enioy the Dramatic Difference
Closed December 24 & 25 for X-mas
New Years Eve
$3.00 Cover-Big Party
Happy Hour 6:00 to 9:00 pm
Open Daily 6:00 pm
616 • 935 • 1666
520 Franklin ,.. Traverse City, MI 49684
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
17
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER1995
Dear Editor,
I would like to congratulate Friends North for their recent Goy
History Weekend held at Sugarloaf Resort. It is truly wonderful to
see this many gay and gay supportive people at one place talking
about all the issues that confront us on a daily basis.
I was lucky to take part in the internal homophobia discussion
and found myself learning a great deal about how we treat our
own community on a daily basis Why, for instance, did most of
us not put our last names on our nametags? Was not that internal
homophobia? And, don't we have to stop doing these things in
order to come out just to ourselves?
I was grearly moved at the two one-Dct plays and would like
to congratulate the actors for sharing their talent. I was deeply
moved at the performance by Guy tv\olnar and his courage to
perform the way he did. We should be proud to have someone
of this stature in our midst.
Thanks to the speakers for giving us different messages and
just for being there.
I still worry that there are a great many gay folks that are
missing out in what our community has to offer and would hope
that they would start attending some of the events of Friends
North, such as this, or the.most recent film festival.
Thanks again to Friends North, and especially to Patty
O'Donnell, for her vision in putting this weekend together.
counseling and support services and accurate medical informationfor
homosexualsand intravenousdrug users.
The secondamendmentyou sponsoredwas Amendment l 855. That
amendmentproposed a freeze on CAREspending at 1995 levelsfor five
years, despite rapidly grO-NingAIDS caseloads. It would have chopped
spending bebw the levelsalready approved by the HouseAppropriations
Committee and the Senate Budget Committee.
You also sponsoredAmendment 1857 for funding level restrictions,
which fails to acknO-Nledgethe epidemic natureof AIDS and the amount
of federal spending on cther diseases.
Ancther amendment you sponsoredwas 1856, which undermines
comprehensiveAIDS training for all federal empl0yees.
Sen. Helms, are you aware that AIDS is the leading killer of
Americans from 25 to 44 years of age? It will account for more than
40,000 deaths in 1995. AIDS killsthe youngest and mosttalentedand
productive membersof our sociely.
Fifteen years ago, no one had heard of AIDS. It grew from zero
reported deaths in 1980 to being the eighth leading cause of death in
1992.
Peoplewith AIDS have losttheir jobs, their health insuranceand their
homes. Pleaserememberthesechilling facts the nexttime a vole for AIDS
funding comes along. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Tom Kincaid
Sen. Helms defends AIDS stance
Dear Ann Landers: One of the things I have admired about you is
your unfailing senseof fair play and I respectyou for it. Nv::xeover,
I am
confidentthatyour correspondent,•LA Reader,•wrde in gcxx:lfaithwhen
she mistakenlyassertedthat I •want to reduce federal AIDS funding.• LA
Readeralso erred in charging that I vigorously support taxpayer subsidies
for the tobacco industries,•which I do nd and have not.
I have indeed called for a fairer and more equitable balance in
federal funding for AIDS and a number of other diseases including heart
disease and cancer.
As for AIDS being transmitted through blcxx:l transfusionsand by
unsterilizedneedles, you are, of course, correct. Butas has been made
clear by many medical authoritieslorig ago, the ultimateorigin of all such
AIDs-tainted blood has been homosexual contact-including the tragic
infusionof blcxx:lclotting medicines that killed Ryan White.
With continued respect, I am-Sincerely yours,JesseHelms
Dear Sen. Helms: Thankyou for your prompt responseto my cdumn.
I appreciate your comments.
Your statement"the ultimateorigin of all suchAID5-taintedblood has
been homosexualcontact" is patently incorrect. The Centers for Disease
Contrd does not know where the virus originated, but it infected bdh
homosexualsand heterosexualsalike. Thevirussimplyspread more rapidly
among homosexuals. No matter ho.v the blcxx:l supply was originally
contaminated, the victims include babies, wives, and mothers,husbands
and fathersand sonsand daughters, regardlessof their sexualorientation
or lifestyle.
You state in your letterthat LA Reader mistakenlyassertedthat you
want to reduce AIDS funding. The record proves that L.A. was correct.
You have sponsored four amendments to the 1995 Ryan White
ComprehensiveAIDS Resourcesand Emergency (CARE)Act that would
severelycripple funding for AIDS.
The first was Amendment 1854, which proposed restrictingfunds
from being used for organizations that provide lifesaving services,
NETWORKING45° NORTH
18
Tuesday, September 19, 1995
Congressman PeterHoekstra
United States House of Representatives
Michigan 2nd Congressional District
1122 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Congressman Hoekstra:
We were temporarily relieved last week when we learned that a
decision had been made to "postpone• the Lou Sheldon-inspired
hearings before your committee (the Oversight and Investigations
Subcommittee of the House Economic and Educational Opportunities
Committee),which had initially been setfor September 12. We thought,
for a moment, that "postponed* might have been a gracious way for
you to actually cancel the hearings and save face with right-wing
extremists.That was, we nON knO'-N,
wishful thinking on our part.
Today we have learned that Sheldon's shO'-Nhas simply been
rescheduled to take place on October l 3. Our objections to these
•
(616) 941-8868
'flVC.(616)941-9063
•:Jfrs 9am-7pm'Daily• Out of town pfwne 800-876-8868
1081S. f;firport './(pad'West,'TraverseCity, Ml 49684 (Cofonia£Square}
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER
1995
hearings remain as fervent as when we expressedthem to you in a letter
1995.
Since that letterwas written, we have read your presssecretary,Jon
Brandt, quoted as saying the hearings are "not intended to bash
homosexuals.• Boy! What a relief. Please tell us that means that Mr.
Sheldon will have no hand in determining who will testify or in the
preparation of the agenda. For that matter, insure us that Mr. Sheldon,
or his inAuence,won't be anywhere near the hearings. We suspectthat
you cannot provide those assurances.
Furthermore,if it's true, as Mr. Brandt has asserted, that you have
decided to broaden the scope of the hearings, we presumethat you will
hear testimonyfrom victims of anti-gay hatred, especially young people
who have suffered horrific violence driven by bigotry and ignorance.
We hope you will hear from parents of gay and lesbian youth who are
still grieving over the suicide of their child.
The Triangle Foundation stands ready to assist you in locating
individuals who can provide first-handtestimonyabout suchthings. They
will tell you that, if anything, the educational systemfailed their families
bynot allowing safe and affirming educational opportunities, or settings
in which homosexualitywas given fair, open and honest discussion.
Reconsiderthese hearings again. This lime, however, cancel them
once and for all! As before, we welcome your response.
Sincerely
JeffreyNontgomery, President
September 28, 1995
ofSeptember 5,
"I hadn't been going to church for five years, because I
couldn't believe in anything. I wanted something I could
relate to as a woman. A lesbian woman."
"It was the same for both of us. Walkinginto a Unitarian
Universalistserviceand feeling immediatelyat home. We felt
welcome.We didn't have to be differentpeople-we could be
ourselves."
'We could be together ... a couple. And no one was going
to kick us out."
"It goesway, way beyondtolerance.UnitarianUniversalists
encouragediversity.And acceptanc~."
"I mean, not everyone is Ozzie and Harriet, you know?"
THE UNITARIAN UNNERSALISTS
for the location of a congregation near you, call:
Patty O'Donnell, President
Friends North, Inc.
POB 562
Traverse City, Ml 49685
Patty,
Here is my renewal membership for Friends North for another
year. I have also enclosed a memorial donation for James "Jigger•
Johnson, my friend who died this past summer. Please use the
donation in the best way you and the Board see fit. I knew Jigger for
over 25 years. I have visited Traverse City many times over the years
and hope to return soon to see all of Jigger's friends &family. I know
how much Friends North meant to him. Keep up the good work and
best wishes.
Sincerely,
Patrick R. McKee
Houston, Texas
andotherDilemmas
ol Building
a Movement
Since the beginning of 1995, Between the Lineshas received a
handful of lettersto the editor questioning the usage of the word queer
in the newspaper. The editorial board has consciously chosen to use
the term queer as an inclusive word for our lesbian, gay male,
bisexual and transgendered community. We do, however,
understand the concerns that people raise around the term queer.
We have employed an informal policy of alternating the term
<queer> and the phrases <lesbian and gay>, and <lesbians, gay
men, bisexual, and transgender people>. Clearly the latter phrase is
a mouthful at best and can be unwieldy at worst. It is, however, the
most inclusive statement of affirmation about the many people and
identities that comprise our movement for equality and social change.
While we use the phrase <lesbians and gay men>, we find this an
obvious exclusion of our bisexual and transgender brothers and
sisterswho are consistently working with us in the movement. Since
we all know the pain of exclusion, particularly in the verbal and
rhetorical arena, we take care to ensure a language that is inclusive.
In seeking a language that is inclusive, the word <queer>
appears before us as a short hand term for talking about lesbians,
gay men, bisexual, and transgender people. We recognize
simultaneously that this word is unpalatable and even unacceptable
to some. Indeed, queer is charged with a history of hatred and
derision that many of us experienced as children and continue to
encounter today. The arguments of language reclamation, whereby
we take a word formerly used to harm us, such as queer, dyke, or
fag, while compelling for some, are for others not convincing.
Nonetheless, we find queer to be a viable alternative for us.
Perhaps queer is not the perfect solution for our community.
Indeed the "controversy" about the term demonstrates the different
views, agendas, expectations, and comfort levels in our community.
We challenge readers of Between the Lineslo continue this dialogue
about language. We need a language that is precise and varied,
empowering and responsive. We need to speak about ourselves
with dignity. We need to speak about everyone in our community
with respect. Finally, we simply need to speak.
(editorial, Between The Lines)
1-800-464-0336
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
19
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
WORDSANDMUSIC:
Politically Correct Holiday Stories by JamesFinnGarner, $9. 95.
Somethingfun for the stocking, this is for those seekingan enlightened
A Local
Guide
toBoolcs,
Magazines,
Tapes
andCD's
yuletide season!
by RickGould
Passagesof Pride: Lesbian and Gay Youth Come of Age by Kurt
Here's what's new in reading and listening for this fall and Chandler, $23.00. The coming out storiesin this book run the gamut
winter. Perhaps these titles will give you some ideas for Christmas, of experiences and issuesfor gays and lesbians.
for both giving and getting!
At B. Dalton's, Beth gave us these suggestions:
At the Bookie Joint, Shelley gives us these suggestions:
You Know You're Gay When ... by Joseph Cohen, $9.95. A
For music, both on cassette and CD:
hilarious quote book and a great stocking stuffer. To be followed by
Limbo/and by Betty, Cass.-$10.98 and CD-$16.98. All-girl, You Know You're A Gay Redneck When ...
bi-racial rock and roll performance trio.
Do What I Say: Ms. Behavior's Guide to Gay and Lesbian
Never Assume by Jamie Anderson, Cass.-$9.98 and CD- Etiqueffe by Meryl Cohn, $ 11 .9 5. A funny look at gay and lesbian
$14. 98. Outrageously funny stories of true life adventures.
social rituals.
Revenge by Janis Ian, Cass.-$10.98 and CD-$16.98.
Ian
Take It Like a Man by Boy George, $25.00. One of the few
performed many of the songs at the National Women's Festival.
autobio's that isn't titled My Life, Boy/Man George tells all, with a
Women for Women, Various Artists, Cass.-$10.98 and CD- sense of humor.
$16.98. No last names needed here: Aretha, Melissa, Annie, Tina
Rolling Stone Images of Rock and Roll, $50.00. A pictorial of
and more, with proceeds going to Breast Cancer and AIDS. ·
the mag's best.
Shelley's book picks:
Finally, Norm at AB CD's has given us both new and old
Dual Allraction: Understanding Bisexuality by Martin Weinberg,
favorites in Christmas music:
$15.95.
LorennaMcKennitt, Mannheim Steamroller,Windham Hill Celtic
Hearing Us Out: Voices from the Gay and Lesbian Community, Christmas, Clint Black, All 4 One, RussFreeman & Rippingtons,
edited by Roger Sutton, $16.95. Coming out stories told in a first Narada Christmas,John Tesh, LutherVandross, and the TurtleIsland
person narrative.
Quartet all have new holiday CD's out.
Sister and Brother: Lesbians and Gay Men Write about their
Popular sellersfrom Christmas' past include CD's by Vince Gill,
Lives Together, edited by Joan Nestle and John Preston. $22.00.
LorennaMcKennitt, Mariah Carey, Natalie Cole, Amy Grant, and
A new magazine at the Bookie Joint: Urban Fitness,$4.95. This Kenny G.
mag is aimed at gays and lesbians who are striving for a healthy
During your hectic holiday shopping, rememberthat thesestores
lifestyle. This will join the many periodicals that Shelley carries. Also appreciate your businessand suggestions.
check out the new calendars, cards, pins, and jewelry that make
great gifts.
Books,
Alex has given us these
At Horizon
recommendations:
Wrestling With the Angel: Faith and Religion in the Livesof Gay
THE1
Men, edited by Brian Bouldrey, $23.95. These 21 essays are by
writers of various religions, who have kept their faith despite being
rejected by the religious institutionsthey were raised in. Includes an
The first gay-themed young adult serieswill hit bookstore shelves
essay by Lev Raphael.
this fall. Publishedby Alyson Publications, the "Pride Pack" will detail
Dyke Life, edited by Karla Jay, $23.00. Described as covering the adventures of a group of teens who meet at a local gay and
from growing up to growing old, this is a celebration of the lesbian lesbian center, and find themselvesdrawn into mysteriousevents in
experience. Featuring a collection of superb lesbian writers.
their community. Tied together initially by circumstance alone, the
Red Ribbon, by Sara Weeks, $15.95. A children's book that teens-some gay, and some with gay parents-must rely on each
comes with a tape. Beautifully illustrated by Jeffrey Greene, this other when authorities refuse to take their concerns seriously.
sensitivestory also includes a red ribbon and a portion of the book's
The idea for the series came from discussions that publisher
royalties go to non-profit AIDS projects.
Sasha Alyson had with teenagers at a 1993 convention of the Gay
The Question of Equality: Lesbian and Gay Politics in America and Lesbian ParentsCoalition International. "Older teenagers who
This is a are comfortable reading adult fiction have lots to choose from," he
Since Stonewall, edited by David Deitcher. $35.00.
companion volume to the PBS TV Series, with a foreword by said. "And for younger children with gay parents, we're already
Armistead Maupin.
publishing our Alyson Wonderland books. But until now, there was
Atlantis by Mark Doty, $12.00. The award winning poet has nothing for kids in between."
centered his new poetry around his own personal loss from AIDS.
In Who Framed Lorenzo Garcia?, the first book in the series,the
Pride Pack comes together to help Ramonwhen his foster dad, gay
From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson,
$14.95. A young adult book about an African-American teen and cop Lorenzo Garcia, is framed for a crime he didn't commit. The
how he reacts to his mother's coming out and relationship with Pride Pack reconvenesin The Case of the Missing Mother, when one
of Rebecca's moms, Maia, mysteriouslydisappears after getting into
another woman.
The Simple Truth by Philip Levine, $20.00.
Pulitzer Prize a public dispute with a local, anti-gay preacher.
Author R.J,Hamilton believes that the books are unique because
winning poems by a Michigan Native.
Dwellings: A Spiritual History of the Living World by Linda they realistically portray teens struggling with issuesaround sexual
Hogan. $21.00. Evocative writing that looks at beauty and evil in identity. "The Pride Pack kids are individuals, not 'cookie cutter'
life. Described as a fierce examination of what it means to be characters. Some of them are out and in-your-face, like Ramon.
Others are not, like Ben who comes from a very conservative and
human.
z:·:···,·,·,·i·a1·1·a,:,11,s:;ii·or·a
90S
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
20
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
traditional family. They're confronted with reaHife situations that all
teens need to deal with in this day and age: censorship, gay
adoption, religious intolerance, the need for AIDS education. And
they're forced to make decisions and take action in a way that allows
themto betrue to themselveswhile also remaining responsible to their
peer community.•
Though the Pride Pack is the first series to feature gay, lesbian,
and straight teens together, Alyson has long been dedicated to
publishing material for gay and lesbian teens. In 1980 Alyson made
its debut into gay publishing with Young, Gay and Proud!, and an
updated edition of that title was published earlier this year. Other
books that Alyson has published include Reflectionsof a Rock Lobster,
Two Teenagers in Twenty, and Not the Only One.
Who Framed Lorenzo Garcia? and The Case of the Missing
Mother will befollowed by one to two new books per season in the
Pride Pack series.
(from a press release by Alyson Publications)
Today's residents of Billings,
Montana, appear to have little in
common with the citizens of
Denmark during World War II;
except, it seems, courage,
character and a large measure of
decency.
When
Germany
occupied Denmark, Hitler ordered
all Jews to wear the Star of David at all times. The morning
following the decree, the King of Denmark himself appeared
publicly wearing the Star of David; great numbers of other
Danes followed suit, and the requirement was soon dropped.
Now Montana, along with Washington, Oregon, Idaho
and Wyoming, has been designated a "white homeland" by
the Aryan Nation and growing numbers of kindred skinheads,
Klan members and other white supremacists; and there have
been a number of hate crimes in Billings; desecration of a
Jewish cemetery, threatening phone calls to Jewish citizens,
swastikas painted on the home of an interracial couple. In
December 1993, a brick was thrown through the window of
a Jewish family, strewing glass over 5-year old Isaac
Schnitzern's bed. Someone had evidently taken offence at a
menorah and other symbols of Jewish faith stenciled on the
glass as part of the family's Hanukkah celebration.
Now the good citizens of Billings had had enough. One
of them, an imaginative woman named Margaret N\cDonald,
phoned her pastor and suggested that they have Sunday
school children make paper cut-out menorahs for their own
windows. The following week menorahs appeared in the
windows of hundreds of Christian homes. Five days later, the
local paper published a full-page drawing of a menorah,
along with a general invitation for people to put it up. By the
end of the week from six to ten thousand homes were
decorated with menorahs.
There were many incidents of hate violence against the
Christian population who displayed the menorah or other
visible signs of support. When asked about the danger the
town was incurring by its demonstration of solidarity with its
Jewish citizens, police chief Wayne Inman said, "There's
greater risk in not doing it."
The ugly incidents eventually waned, and people continue
in their efforts to support one another against hate crimes. New
friendships have formed, new traditions started, and greater
mutual understanding and respect have been achieved. During
the Passover holiday the following spring, 250 Christians
joined their Jewish sisters and brothers in a traditional Seder
meal; and last winter, families all over Billings took out their
menorahs to reaffirm their commitment to peace and religious
tolerance.
And that is what the King of Denmark, or one concerned
woman, can do; if they have courage and a fierce
commitment to justice.
•
The Human RightsCampaign Fund (HRCFJhas changed
its name and has dropped the word "Fund." It will now
be known as the Human Rights Campaign (HRC).
•
Another study on finding a "gay gene" has just been
released in The Journal of Nature Genetics. National
Instituteof Health researcher,Dean Hamer, has justfinished
the second study involvingaround 40 families. Eachfamily
had at least two gay brothers. The study looked at the "X"
chromosome and found a gene site on the chromosome
that was similar in many of the gay brothers.
Although the study is not conclusive, it has provided more
evidence linking genetics to sexual orientation. At least,
the study has shown that there is enough evidence to
launch a more definitive and conclusive study that would
involve more subjects.
The researcher mentionsthat they do not believe that they
will ever find a single gene that is responsible for sexual
orientation. They feel that there are many genes which
might be responsible, and perhaps the one they have
now located is simply one of them.
•
Whitewater
landscaping
& lawnCare
Tom
Hager
Coy
Gordon
(616)267-5972
(616)267-9451
7038M-72
N.W.,
Williamsburg,
Ml49690
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
21
Representative Barney Frank, an openly gay
Massachusetts Democrat, told the Bay Windows
newspaper that it would be his "patriotic duty to make a
list of all the closeted gay Republicans" in Congress if
Republicans tried to overturn President Clinton's order
VOLUME 9 • ISSUE6 •NOVEMBER/
DECEMBER1995
barring the denial of security clearances because of Hoekstra'sear. He is rumored to be the force behind this conservative
sexual orientation. It appears that therewill be no reason Congressman's push lo investigate how the federal government might
for Frank to follow through on this, as there have been no be •endorsing the homosexual lifestyle."
Disney has decided that ii will not offer these benefits to
challenges in the legislature to the presidential order.
unmarried heterosexual couples.
•
The City of Miami Beach has launched a campaign to
attract gay tourists. South Beach has become a mecca
for gay tourists from around the country and around the
globe. The City realizes the economic benefits of the
gay and lesbian community, and has decided to pursue
them. We will now see more media advertisements
luring us to gay-friendly Miami Beach.
CUNTON
ANDNON-DISCRIMINATION
President Clinton announced his support for legislation that
would bar most job discrimination against gays and lesbians. He
said, *This is wrong. Individuals should not be denied a job on the
basisof something that has no relationship to their ability to perform
their work.• The endorsement is part of a continuing effort by Clinton
lo end discrimination against homosexuals, according to advisor
In choosing to target gays, Miami Beach weighed George Stephanopoulos al a conference of Lesbian and Gay
whether the increase in gays would be a negative JournalistsAssociation.
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) is sponsored
aspect for straight tourists. Their conclusion was that this
by Senators Kennedy and Jeffords and would bar discrimination,
would not impact that segment of their market.
quotas or preferences in hiring based on sexual orientation.
However, with the GOP controlled Congress, this bill has a slim
chance of being passed. Nonetheless, the president felt ii was
necessary to speak out on this issue, and mentioned to the pressthat
in 41 states ii is perfectly legal to discriminate on the basis of sexual
orientation.
by RichardTuxbury
ANDPARTNER
BENEFITS
VETERANS
DEPARTMENT
COORS:
What came as a welcome surprise to gay Americans was
looked on as betrayal by conservative Christians. Coors Brewing
Company extended health care benefits lo those partners of
homosexual employees. To be eligible, the couple must prove they
live together and share financial obligations. A Coors spokesperson
says, "We did a lot of research and of course people said you're
going lo have this backlash and that backlash ... but it's pretty
consistent with Coors' philosophy of treating its employees well.•
Coors has long been known as a major contributor to very
conservative causes, including The Heritage foundation and Free
Congress Foundation who both campaign and propagandize
against the •Gay Agenda." In fact, ii is reported that the Coors
Foundation, which is run by the Coors family, particularly brothers
William, Jeffrey and Peter, gave almost six million dollars lo
conservative organizations in 1994 alone.
Coors has been boycotted by the gay community for their onetime negative stance on gay employees as well as the close lies lo
the anti-gay groups mentioned. Later, Coors spent advertising money
in gay publications and sponsored some gay pride events. However,
this was interpreted as insincere, since so much more was contributed
to the anti-gay groups.
Conservative groups are furious. •I1'skind of like a betrayal,• said
ChristineO'Donnel, spokespersonfor Concerned Women ofAmerica,
which has a membership of 600,000 conservative women.
In August, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs became the
latest cabinet-level government department to add sexual orientation
to its non-discrimination policy. The HRC applauded the decision:
*The VA is sending a clear message of fairness to its employees.
When it comes to employment practices, the abilities and
performance of the individual workers are what matter, not their
sexual orientation."
MAINE
BALLOT
PROPOSAL
An anti-gay rights measure is on the November ballot here. It
seeks to deny basic rights to gays, lesbians and other people by
excluding them from a list of protected groups under Maine's antidiscrimination laws. It is strangely written, and is meant to overturn
the protection that Maine now offers to its gay and lesbian citizens
and visitors. A group, Maine Won't Discriminate, has formed to
oppose this measure, which is very similar lo the Colorado
Amendment 2, (which is now before the U.S. Supreme Court and
will be decided in June or July).
HAWAII
MARRIAGE
RIGHTS
A circuit judge in Hawaii has postponed a hearing on Baehr vs
Lewin that could result in the legalization of same-sexmarriage from
September 1995 to July 1996. The delay will give the new commission
lime lo complete its researchon sexual orientation and the law.
DISNEY:
The Disney Company will offer health insurance to live-in partners
of gay and lesbian employees, as well as the partners' dependent
children. Says spokesperson John Dreyer, "We made this decision
because ii brings our health benefits in line with our corporate nondiscrimination policy.•
The Rev. Lou Sheldon of the Traditional Family Values Coalition
criticized this move by saying, "With the understanding that the
homosexual agenda has penetrated Hollywood, it should come as
no surprisethat Disney now supportsanti-family values.• Rev. Sheldon
became infamous for producing and distributing the anti-gay film,
*The Gay Agenda,• and lately has had Representative Peter
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
22
·accommodations for women·
Duneswood
P.O. Box 457
Glen Arbor. Ml 49636
616-334-3346
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995
Property of the Center
::>fthe most important advances we have made over the
the establishment of the GLMD lnterNetwork (see "Plug
1:--y
ZalmonSherwood Into the GLMD lnterNetwork"), an interactive e-mail network and
Activation Tree, operating out of the LA office under the direction of
II A SINGLE
WOMAN"
Her lover left her, and her life became unbearable. The silence, LorenJavier. We are also stepping out onto the World Wide Web
the isolation, the loneliness. She entered therapy, but she needed (htp://www.datalounge.com/glaad)
GLMD wants to extend its thanks to the many volunteerswho
something more-a sense of community, belonging, a place where
have
helped us (and continue to help us) along in this project. There
she could be among les/bi/gay people.
have
been
several highly knowledgeable expertswho have donated
An item appeared over a year ago in Networking 45° North-their
time
and
talents in getting us up and running at breakneck
a Petoskeysocial group was meeting every Thursday at a restaurant.
speed.
We
especially
want to thank Tom Rielly and Karen Wickre
She called one of the c :,r;·actpersons for information. Then she
at
Digital
Queers
in
San
Francisco, Eric Weingartner of Altura
resolved to make the 45-minute drive to Petoskey.
Systems
Integration,
Scott,
and
our resident volunteersin LA, Charlie
What she encountered at her first visit is every lesbian's
Zweig,
Bob
Lafont,
Bob
Eicholz,
Tim Owen, Brooks Graham and
nightmare-a table full of gay men. She took a deep breath, then
Phil
Kinkade
and
in
NY,
Jim
Held
and Maria. We are seeking
took the one vacant seat right in the middle of the group. And from
additional
help
from
across
the
country
and we encourage those of
that moment on, oddly enough, she felt at home.
you
who
can
volunteer
advice
and
assistance
to contact Morgan
•Everyone was very friendly,• she recalls. "They welcomed me
Gwenwald
in
the
NY
National
office
(glaadny@aol.com)
You may
and made me feel comfortable. That's all I needed."
reach
Digital
Quers
at
Digiquees@aol.com
or
info@dq.org.
She never missesa week. She has remained in the center and
developed into the conscience of the group. Occasionally, she has
Online
Resources
introduced other women to the group, but they rarely return.
"Exploiting
Media
Opportunities: How ToMake Sure LavenderNews
"Of course I would like to see more women attend,• she says. •1
I
Black
and
White
and Read All Over• is an instructionalpamphlet
always hope I might meet a new friend. But if I do meet that special
available
on
the
World
Wide Web (http://rt66.com/summers/
woman, I'm not going to stop attending Thursday nights.•
The Traverse City lesbian community has reached out to her, media.html). The text "focuses on organizing press conferences to
inviting her to the coffeehouse and various social events. It's a long secure media coverage on local lesbian and gay news stories.•
The Youth Assistance Organization (YAO) promotes the positive
drive from her rural home, but she makes every effort to support
uses
of online media for lesbian, gay and bisexual teens. Through
regional les/bi/ gay events.
She is an attractive, intelligent woman with a responsible YAO, queer or questioning youth can participate in e-mail counseling
position in the northern Michigan business community. And she is (help@youth.org)and access a World Wide Web page (http://
closeted-except for Thursday nights, when she becomes an www.youth.org/).
A new web-site devoted to Ru Paul provides biographical, video
important part of the les/bi/gay community in the little Traverse
and
audio clips of the singer (http:www.webcom.com/ ~sdp3/
area.
•If my boss were to walk into the restaurant, I would be fired,• rupaul.html).
The White House is also on the web-friendly (http://
she says. •For myself, it's worth the risk to be among people who
www.whitehouse.gov).
accept me for who I am.•
The "Online Transgender Resource Guide•
(http://
Next issue: a critique of the Petoskey social group.
www.zoom.com:80/cds.pub/) featuresnews, communityresources,
personals,
and
much
more;
e-mail
inquiries
to
(comments@cdspub.com).
The campaign to get a lesbian or gay character on "Star Trek:
Voyager• has establisheda web address (http:/ /www.gaytrek.com/
gaytrek); you may also write: Voyager Visibility Project, l 377 Fulton
St., Ste. 3, San Francisco, CA 94 l 17.
MajorAdvances
in GLAAD's
Computers
& Cyberspace
!OutProud!, the National Coalition of Gay, Lesbianand Bisexual
Connections
youth at (http://www.brewersguild.com/outproud/)
With the ongoing support of Tom Rielly and Karen Wickre of
Carol Mortimer postsa weekly listing for gay TV content-kind of
Digital Queers GLAAD has made major inroads on the lnfohighway.
like a gay TV Guide. She has a website at (http:pages.prodigy.com/
Thanks to a matching grant and DQ technical support we have NJ/ Carol-mortimer/gay-TV-menu.html.)
outfitted our national offices with PowerMac computers, highspeed
Children's Animated Television, a progressive non-profit that
printersand networking capabilities. GLAAD will now be much more produces educational videos for children and teens on social issues,
efficient and responsivewhen dealing with computer-based projects. has a GLB teen advisor page at the WWW site (http://www/.usa/
We can also send staffersout on the road with computers to improve .com/-furball).
their productivity.
We are still finalizing and ironing out some kinks in our systems,
but by fall we should be really ready to go in our mobilization for
fair, accurate, and inclusive representation of our community. The
next phase of this project is also being activated by board member
Lesli Klainberg, who has shepherded the computer project along
from its inception. This very vital and exciting next step is the process
of bringing the Chapters on-line with computer systemsof their own.
M 001 111 467
NETWORKING 45° NORTH
23
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER1995
@Wt%mt~a,,~1W'~W~Jl-lU11llll-R'l@llli1]ilrnltfa~llllll~ffitfaiiMllt
~"'~""losEPH' ··aERTUCCl_;_·pROFILE
...
•as a young child. After
JohnEvans
When I arrived at Joe Bertucci's office at the Old Town
Playhouse,Joe was making a bagel run. One wall of his office was
lined with a book.case containing volumes of plays. That occupied
most of my attention until our executive director arrived and we
began our talk, each of us munching on a bagel.
•1went to California in 1980 and almost immediately started
working at 20th Century Fox... the way everyone gets on the lotwhen you get on the lot it's as a floater and then you have to get
hired. And I got hired then full time and started working on a project
called *JessicaNovak• which was a short-livedsix week series. And
then while I was there founded with another group of people the 20th
0
Cen~r~~~he~:ra: : 0 ~t;f'~~-:arious theaters in the area: The Los
Angeles Actor's Theater, the Front Row Theater, the Theater in
Melrose, the Santa /v\onica Playhouse.
"There were a number of theaters I worked at-and for-while
I was in LA, some of them just for a show, some for a permanent
position like the LAT."
that seizure he couldn't
drive any more. Couldn't
get around. His career as
a botanist at Berkeley
had come to an end ...
He had no family. I didn't
want to see him wind up
in a nursing home.•
So, Joe brought Earl
back to Joe's native home
in the Upper Peninsula.
"Earl wanted to
;~~ ~og~~:~:,~cl ~~:
Joe-trying to look severe.
i{lliltlltfil!1iifill[l]!lll[filil@l)ll
in Alaska. And I thought, well, I'll take him to Marquette, and he
won't know. And he always related to tv\arquetteas if it were Alaska.
There were momentsof lucidity when he knew where he was but
most of the time he thought he was in Alaska and referred to it that
way.•
But Joe ended up moving to Ventura where he ran the Gold
Joe's family lived in nearby Ishpemingwhere Joe was raisedCoast Repertory Theater which involved not only managing and the oldest of fifteen children. The family welcomed Earl and
directing the theater but also working with the Ventura Symphony, supported Joe in his care-taking. Whenever Earl had lo be
the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra, and a dance theater.
hospitalized it was at fv\arquelte General where he was placed on
"That was a lot of fun because I'd never done that-I'd never the seventh floor in oncology. One of the nurseson that floor was
worked with a dance company like that and I really enjoyed Scott Southwell, who eventually moved in with Joe and helped take
watching them work-I would go and sit in on rehearsal three hours care of Earl in his last days. Earl died in 1992.
a day.•
Joe had received his degree in theater from the University of
South Florida. From there he moved to Atlanta where he worked at
the Alliance Theater, the Atlanta Children's Theater, the Center for
PuppetryArts. At the end of about five years he moved to California.
"But I was in Atlanta when the epidemic broke out. It was 1979.
I was living in this high-rise which was called appropriately "K-Y
Castle.* It was mostly gay. I lived on the fifteenth floor. One of the
guys who lived on the fourteenth floor worked at the Center for
Disease Control. He was an epidemiologist and privy to a lot that
was going on there. He came upstairsand we were talking one nig_ht
and he said there is this cancer that is only affecting gay men. I said
that's impossible there can't be a cancer that knows who it is
infecting.•
.
Only a tiny article appeared in the paper. The community was
totally unaware. By the time Joe moved west he became aware
through the loss of friends how serious this was.
While in Southern California, Joe began to get involved as a
volunteer in the food bank of Los Angeles AIDS Project. When he
moved to Ventura he had an AIDS buddy and eventually became a
memberof the board of the VenturaAIDS Project.In 1988 he moved
to Son Franciscoand started working with the EastBay AIDS Project.
No longer working in theater,Joe was now d~voling full !ime_to
AIDS work. By day he worked in nursinghomeswhich dealt _pnmanly
with AIDS patients, and did volunteer work the rest of the time.
When I first metJoe in 1990 in Marquette, he had a roommate
named Earl. I asked him how he met Earl.
"While in Son Francisco I facilitated a group of 18 men who
were HIV+. Earl was in that group. I started giving him rides back
and forth. When he first started in the group he was an extremely
brilliant man in good health. At one point during support ~roup he
suffereda seizure and ended up with dementia. It was the first onset
of any opportunistic infection he had. He had a history of epilepsy
NETWORKING 450 NORTH
24
While in Marquette Joe obtained the position of Directoral the
fv\arquette Historical Museum.
.
"It wasn't what I wanted to do. I ultimatelyended up changing
it into a theater because I starteddoing shows-we did three shows
while I was there.•
•
So, Joe began looking around and applied for the position he
now holds at the Old Town Playhouse.He and Scott moved down
to TraverseCity in 1993.
I asked Joe how he got involved in Wellness Networks.
"Actually I called and said 'Can you suggesta group that I can
attend that you may have that addresses multiple losses?'And they
said 'Come on in and we'll talk about it. We're having a training.'
They sent me information. I signed up for the training. I never really
got a support group but I got involved and eventually I became
president of the board.•
•11has been great. The people I feel closest to in Traverseare
associated with that organization. Even though we disagree
sometimes,we care deeply about each other. And it has been great
having Jim Carruthersthere.*
•
•
.
Thinking of the production last year of ~effrey and this past
summerof "Lonely Planet• I suggested that Joe has brought a lot of
excitementto the Old Town Playhousesince he has been here.
"That was a good way to put it, John!... If you were to describe
theater in the last half of the 20th century in America and you didn't
have any gay plays you'd be missingthe boat by a long sho!.Mo;t
of the seriousdrama is dominated by gay plays and playwrights.
I asked about any plans for the OTP.
*Because it is a volunteer organization a lot of it has to come
from the volunteers-where they want ii to go. And we try to listento
everybody. The problem is we have 400 people with different
interpretations.The challenge is to balance all this.8
VOWME 9 • ISSUE6 • NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER1995