HABBO AND MATTHEW SHEPARD FDN PARTNER TO REACH TEENS ONLINE by: Cathy Renna, OIA Newswire
Habbo Joins Forces with the Matthew Shepard Foundation to "Erase Hate" Among Teens
New Partnership Will Provide an Opportunity to Teach Teens about Dignity and Respect
Los Angeles (June 30, 2008) - Habbo, the largest global virtual community for teens, and the Matthew Shepard Foundation, a non-profit organization promoting understanding, compassion and acceptance among young people, announced today that they have entered into a new relationship in an effort to educate online users about dignity and respect. The Foundation, through its "Erase Hate" project, will host an ongoing series of conversations among users in the Habbo.com InfoBus.
Starting July 7, the Matthew Shepard Foundation staff will lead discussions twice a week in Habbo.com's InfoBus, which is a virtual room designed as the inside of a high-end bus. Users gather in the InfoBus to discuss issues of concern among young people in a safe environment. Topics will include how to deal with bullying, discrimination and hate experienced on and offline and how to encourage respect among peers.
"The Matthew Shepard Foundation is exceptionally qualified to provide support to our users as they navigate their difficult teen years," said Teemu Huuhtanen, EVP, marketing, ad sales and business development, Sulake Corporation and president, North America, Sulake Inc. "The InfoBus has always been a popular resource for our teen community and we know they will take advantage of this opportunity to share their experiences and learn new tools to foster acceptance and compassion."
The Matthew Shepard Foundation's mission is to support diversity programs in education and to help youth organizations establish environments where young people can feel safe and be themselves.
"It is a mission of the Foundation to support young people and provide them with the resources to lead healthy, productive, hate free lives," said Judy Shepard, executive director, Matthew Shepard Foundation. "Our partnership with Habbo will allow us to have ongoing conversations with young people about what they can do in the fight to replace hate with understanding, compassion, and acceptance."
There are currently Habbo communities in 32 countries on six continents. To date, more than 100 million Habbo characters have been created globally and 9.5 million unique users worldwide visit Habbo each month (source: ComScore).
About Habbo: Habbo is a richly colorful, multi-dimensional virtual community and game environment for teens. Users join by creating a fully customized online character called a Habbo. From there, they can explore many public hang-outs, play a variety of games, connect with friends, decorate their own rooms, and have fun through creativity and self expression. Currently there are Habbo communities in 32 countries on six continents. To date, more than 100 million Habbo characters have been created and 9.5 million unique users worldwide visit Habbo each month (source: ComScore). www.habbo.com
About the Matthew Shepard Foundation: The Matthew Shepard Foundation was founded by Dennis and Judy Shepard in memory of their 21-year old son, Matthew, who was murdered in an anti-gay hate crime in Wyoming in October 1998.
Created to honor Matthew in a manner that was appropriate to his dreams, beliefs and aspirations, the Foundation seeks to "Replace Hate with Understanding, Compassion & Acceptance" through its varied educational, outreach and advocacy programs and by continuing to tell Matthew's story. [7/2/08]
MICHELLE OBAMA PRAISED FOR CONNECTING HISTORICAL DOTS OF DISCRIMINATION Faith In America today praised Michelle Obama for connecting the historical dots of discrimination and prejudice for Americans in a speech yesterday in New York. > Full Story. [6/30/08]
BOY BUTTER LUBRICANT LINE IS LAUNCHING THE FIRST GAY PERSONAL LUBRICANT AD ON TELEVISION BBL LLC, maker of the popular Boy Butter lubricant line is launching the first Gay Personal Lubricant Ad on Television starting June 30th. > Full Story. [6/30/08]
ACLU APPLAUDS FIRST-EVER CONGRESSIONAL HEARING ON GENDER IDENTITY IN THE WORKPLACE Washington, DC – The American Civil Liberties Union today applauded the House Education and Labor Subcommittee on Heath, Employment, Labor, and Pensions for holding the first-ever congressional hearing on transgender issues and gender identity discrimination in the workplace. Chaired by Representative Robert Andrews (D-NJ), the committee heard from retired Army Colonel and ACLU client Diane Schroer. The ACLU is currently representing Schroer in a Title VII sex discrimination lawsuit against the Library of Congress. > Full Story. [6/26/08]
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING JUNE 21, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending June 21, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,056, distributed 6-2308) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [6/23/08]
HRC CALLS FOR CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION IN CASE OF POLICE BRUTALITY AGAINST A TRANSGENDER WOMAN HRC CALLS FOR CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION IN CASE OF POLICE BRUTALITY AGAINST A TRANSGENDER WOMAN > Full Story. [6/18/08]
LONG PATH TO THE ALTAR FOR GAY COUPLES IN CALIF. [VIDEO] Long Path to the Altar for Gay Couples in Calif. Associated Press • Jun. 16, 2008. 08:23 AM EST
California today becomes only the second state in the nation after Massachusetts to allow gays to get married. Last month's ruling by the state Supreme Court kicks in at 5:01 p.m. Pacific time. (June 16) > Full Story. [6/16/08]
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING JUNE 14, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending June 14, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,055, distributed 6-16-08) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [6/16/08]
MAKE CHANGE, NOT LAWSUITS Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender organizations urge couples marrying in California to 'Make Change, Not Lawsuits' > Full Story. [6/11/08]
HARVEY MILK BILL PASSES FIRST SENATE COMMITTEE Harvey Milk Bill Passes First Senate Committee
Bill Authored by Assemblymember Leno, and Sponsored by EQCA, Would Honor the LGBT Civil Rights Pioneer Each May 22
SACRAMENTO – Civil rights activist Harvey Milk would be commemorated with an official day honoring his leadership under a bill approved today by the California Senate Government Organization Committee.
Senate committee members passed Assembly Bill 2567, which would establish May 22 as Harvey Milk Day in California, with a 6-4 vote. The legislation is authored by Assemblymember Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, and sponsored by Equality California. If the measure is passed in the full Senate and signed by the governor, California would become the first state in the nation to designate a day commemorating a leader of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.
"Today the Senate Committee recognized the unforgettable leadership of Harvey Milk, the former San Francisco Supervisor who knowingly risked his life because he believed that equality could only be achieved by living openly and honestly," said EQCA Executive Director Geoff Kors. "Milk was a courageous leader who inspired an entire community to stand up for fairness and justice. By passing this historic bill, the Senate would acknowledge what our history books have long ignored – that Milk's achievements and vision deserve wide recognition."
AB 2567 heads to the Senate Education Committee next, before going to a full vote on the Senate floor.
Milk was one of the nation's first openly gay elected officials. He was assassinated in 1978, along with San Francisco Mayor George Moscone, by a homophobic colleague with the Board of Supervisors. AB 2567 would proclaim May 22 as Harvey Milk Day, in honor of his birth. The bill would encourage public schools and educational institutions to conduct activities teaching students about this important LGBT leader. As a non-fiscal state holiday, it would not impact the state budget because it does not increase the number of paid holidays for state employees or suspend public functions.
"Harvey would be proud to know that his legacy continues to teach us to believe in ourselves and our dreams," said Assemblymember Leno. "Given the alarming rates of suicide, depression, substance abuse, bullying and violence against LGBT youth in our schools, the bill aims to give LGBT and straight students alike a positive representative of who LGBT people are that inspires pride and self-esteem rather than fear and shame. That is what Harvey was all about," he said.
During the 1970s, Milk worked to pass an LGBT civil rights ordinance in San Francisco and helped defeat an initiative that would have banned gays and lesbians from teaching in public schools.
California law commemorates the contributions of important historical figures and groups including Martin Luther King, Jr., Cesar Chavez, American Indians and Japanese Americans.
Founded in 1998, Equality California celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2008, commemorating a decade of building a state of equality in California. EQCA is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, grassroots-based, statewide advocacy organization whose mission is to achieve equality and civil rights of all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Californians. www.eqca.org > Full Story. [6/10/08]
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING JUNE 7, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending June 7, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,054, distributed 6-9-08) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [6/10/08]
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN SAN FRANCISCO DINNER TO BENEFIT MARRIAGE EQUALITY IN CALIFORNIA Human Rights Campaign San Francisco Dinner to Benefit Marriage Equality in California HRC recently pledged $500,000 to defeat constitutional amendment www.hrc.org/California
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender civil rights organization, today announced that guests attending the annual San Francisco dinner will have the option to give their contribution to the ongoing effort to protect marriage equality in California. At this time, anti-equality forces are working to enshrine discrimination into California’s constitution with a constitutional amendment on the November general election ballot. In late May, HRC pledged an initial contribution of $500,000 to Equality for All, the coalition working to protect marriage equality.
“The Court’s ruling was an amazing victory and the San Francisco dinner is another opportunity to continue to build financial support to protect marriage this November,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “With our initial $500,000 commitment and the proceeds from the dinner, HRC aims to ensure that California remains a state where every person has the opportunity to realize their hopes and dreams by being able to marry the person they love.”
When ordering tickets, all dinner guests will be given the option to designate up to 100 percent of the fee to the HRC California Marriage PAC. The PAC was established to fight against the anti-marriage ballot initiative. Proceeds from the dinner are part of the recent $500,000 pledge by HRC. In the past year, HRC also provided six full-time staff members and $100,000 to Equality for All, a large and diverse coalition of civil rights, faith, choice, labor and communities of color organizations working to stop and defeat any ballot measure that would deny gay and lesbian couples the right to marry in California.
HRC is a member of Equality for All, the coalition working to defeat the marriage ban, and these funds will support the coalition's efforts. To purchase tickets to the San Francisco Dinner, please visit: http://sfbayarea.hrc.org/dinner or call Box Office Tickets at: 800-494-TIXS(8497). To donate to the HRC California Marriage PAC, visit: http://www.hrc.org/california.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.
-30-If you would rather not receive future email messages from Human Rights Campaign, let us know by clicking here.Human Rights Campaign, 1640 Rhode Island Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036 United States > Full Story. [6/6/08]
NEWS FROM TWIN CITIES PRIDE Last Call for Artists for 2008 Pride Art Show > Full Story. [6/6/08]
FAMILY EQUALITY COUNCIL BLASTS TIVO FOR PARTNERING WITH FOCUS ON THE FAMILY BELOW IS THE TEXT OF A LETTER SENT TO TIVO THIS AFTERNOON BY THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE FAMILY EQUALITY COUNCIL > Full Story. [6/5/08]
LGBT EQUALITY CAUCUS LAUNCHED IN CONGRESS House Members Form LGBT Equality Caucus Goal is Equality for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) Americans > Full Story. [6/4/08]
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN PAC RELEASES COMPREHENSIVE REPORT ON SEN. JOHN MCCAIN'S RECORD ON GLBT ISSUES Human Rights Campaign PAC Releases Comprehensive Report on Sen. John McCain’s Record on GLBT Issues Report contradicts McCain as independent, moderate; Suggests similar track on GLBT issues as Bush presidency www.hrc.org/McCain
WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign PAC, the federal political action committee of the nation’s largest gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, today announced the release of a comprehensive report – “Senator John McCain: A Record of Opposing the Interests of GLBT Americans.” As the general election nears, Sen. John McCain will tout his reputation as a maverick, an independent and a moderate, but a review of Sen. McCain’s record paints a different picture. The report provides an in-depth view of Sen. John McCain’s record on GLBT issues and the likelihood that a McCain presidency would be similar to that of President George W. Bush. The full report and a summary can be viewed online at www.hrc.org/McCain.
“We’ve witnessed President Bush over the last seven years repeatedly side with ultra-conservatives and the religious right at the expense of protections for GLBT Americans. Judging by his record, a McCain presidency would be another four years of more of the same,” said Human Rights Campaign Vice President David Smith. “Similar to Bush, Sen. John McCain opposes equal benefits for same-sex couples; opposes the Employment Non-Discrimination Act to prohibit discrimination against GLBT Americans in the workplace; opposes expanding the hate crimes act to include sexual orientation and gender identity, and supports the military’s discriminatory Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy.”
“Sen. McCain voted against the Federal Marriage Amendment, which would have rewritten discrimination into our Constitution, but his position on equality for same-sex couples is no different than that of President Bush and the conservative right,” said Arizona State Legislator Kyrsten Sinema, who serves on the HRC Arizona Steering Committee and previously directed Arizona Together, the group responsible for defeating the 2006 Arizona constitutional amendment against marriage equality. “The same year Sen. McCain voted against the FMA, he worked to oppose equal rights in his home state of Arizona by appearing in a television advertisement in support of a constitutional amendment that not only would have banned same-sex marriage, but also would have taken away existing benefits and legal protections for unmarried families.”
In 2006, voters in Arizona were faced with a vote on Proposition 107 - an amendment to the Arizona Constitution that prohibited any form of relationship recognition. To view the television advertisement showing McCain voicing support for the amendment, visit the HRC blog: www.HRCBackStory.org.
Highlights from “Senator John McCain: A Record of Opposing the Interests of GLBT Americans”: > Full Story. [6/4/08]
GAY MARRIAGE ON CALIF. BALLOT [VIDEO] Gay Marriage on Calif. Ballot Associated Press • Jun. 03, 2008. 04:31 AM EST
An initiative to outlaw gay marriage in California has qualified for the November ballot. The measure would amend the state constitution to define marriage as a union between a man and a woman. (June 3) > Full Story. [6/4/08]
CALIFORNIA MARRIAGE DECISION TO BOOST STATE ECONOMY A recent study from UCLA predicts that marriages among gay and lesbian couples could provide $370 million to the state economy in the next three years. The study estimates that about half of California's 92,000 couples will have wedding ceremonies. > Full Story. [6/4/08]
10 STATES ASK FOR DELAY IN CA MARRIAGE RULING Republican attorneys general from ten states have asked the California Supreme Court to stay its marriage decision until after the November election. The attorneys general stated in a letter to the court's chief justice, Ronald George, that allowing marriage for gay and lesbian couples would cause legal challenges from state residents who marry in California. The letter said that gay and lesbian couples could demand equal treatment in tax filing and visitation rights. Supporters of the November ballot initiative to ban marriage for gay and lesbian people have also requested the court stay its decision until after the election. > Full Story. [6/4/08]
IDENTICAL TWINS HELP WITH FINDING GAY GENES The brand new University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Center for Gender-Based Biology is announcing the launch of a groundbreaking study to identify the genes responsible for sexual orientation. > Full Story. [5/30/08]
THE CLIKS NAIL A NEXTY! Canadian rockers The Cliks proudly took home a "Brink Of Fame: Music Artist" Nexty at last weeks "NewNowNext" Awards. It was the first annual award show put on by MTV's popular LGBT Logo channel. See The Cliks win-and perform-when the NewNowNext Awards show airs Saturday, June 7 on LOGO. And tune in the Wednesday before (June 4) at 3:30 EST, as The Cliks will be making an appearance on MTV's "TRL" ("Total Request Live")!
Cliks frontman and founder, Lucas Silveira was blown away and had this to say, "We were extremely honored to win the Nexty. I really can't tell you what an amazing thrill it was not only to win, but to have been presented the very first award The Cliks have ever won by Cyndi Lauper. I just felt it was so fitting, as she has been such an amazing source of support for us by having us on the True Colors tour and really thrusting us forward. We are also so grateful that MTV Logo exists, and for how really significant they have been in our visibility and success in the US. This essentially was the best way to start off the summer. Thank you to all of you who voted for us and to Logo for all of their acknowledgement."
Tom Silverman, founder and CEO of Tommy Boy Entertainment, the New York City-based company which distributs the nations top LGBT label, Silver Label, raved, "The selection of The Cliks as the 'Brink of Fame: Music Artist' has meaning well beyond the LGBT community: It signals the beginning of Logo's power to help cross over bands from that community to the mainstream. We applaud Logo for recognizing the Cliks first and foremost, as one of the world's great new rock bands."
In 2007, The Cliks scored two #1 NewNowNext videos ("Oh Yeah" and "Complicated), appeared on "The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson," were special guests at the request of Cyndi Lauper on her True Color Tour, opened for the legendary UK rock band, The Cult for their US/Canadian tour and Cliks' lead-singer, Lucas Silveira, was tattooed by Kat Von D. on "LA Ink."
Summer 2008 will see The Cliks returning to Cyndi Lauper's True Colors Tour, releasing their new digital-only single, "My Heroes (SUV)," going into the studio recording the follow-up to their popular debut album, "Snakehouse," and touring Germany and South Africa. • > Full Story. [5/29/08]
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING MAY 24, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending May 24, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,052, distributed 5-26-08) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [5/28/08]
SAN FRANCISCO MAYOR REJECTS PROPOSED BUDGET CUTS TO HIV/AIDS SERVICES
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom recently rejected proposed cuts to HIV/AIDS services in his fiscal year 2009 budget, the San Francisco Chronicle reports. According to the Chronicle, Newsom rejected a proposal by Mitch Katz, director of the San Francisco Department of Public Health, to cut $3 million of the $10 million the department allocates to 30 not-for-profit groups that provide HIV/AIDS services.
Katz made the recommendation in response to an order by Newsom earlier this month to reduce $11 million from the health department's budget to help alleviate an estimated $338 million city deficit. Katz recommended maintaining medical care and housing for people living with HIV/AIDS but reducing funds for food deliveries, legal services, support groups, acupuncture, massage and herbal therapy. The health department, which is projected to lose $54 million next year, already has made cuts and halted other programs. Although AIDS groups will "fare better than they'd feared," the city still plans to implement a 22% reduction in funds to all community programs, including AIDS groups that receive public health funds, the Chronicle reports. In addition, it is not clear how much federal funds the city will receive for HIV/AIDS programs next year.
Katz said he made the recommendations because the city does not have the "funds to provide these services to anyone else with chronic diseases -- people with cancer, people with neurological diseases." He added, "If the city is saying that complementary therapy is our priority, it would need to be the priority of all people who benefit." Newsom said, "I just couldn't in good conscience justify" the funding reductions. He added, "To the extent there are any cuts, they won't be at this magnitude -- not even close."
Some HIV/AIDS advocates praised Newsom for not implementing the reductions but said the city should be investing more money because there are more people living with HIV/AIDS in the city and the amount of federal funding to San Francisco is uncertain. According to state figures, there are 4,512 HIV-positive people and 8,973 people with AIDS living in San Francisco. In addition, 800 to 1,000 people are newly diagnosed annually, the Chronicle reports. Ayrick Broin -- communications director for Immune Enhancement Project, which receives city funding -- said, "Maybe [AIDS groups] have gotten some extra dollars, but we've also done more protesting." He added that HIV/AIDS groups have "been the most vocal in getting the public aware and realizing this isn't a problem that's going away."
Mark Cloutier, executive director of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, said, "In order for people [living with HIV/AIDS] to participate in primary care, they need these other services." He added, "For people to remain adherent to their treatment regimen, they have to have their mental health issues and substance abuse issues under control, and they need to be stably housed so their lives are not chaotic" (Knight, San Francisco Chronicle, 5/28).
STATEMENT FROM LAMBDA LEGAL'S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KEVIN CATHCART ON TODAY'S NINTH CIRCUIT "DON'T ASK DON'T TELL" RULING Statement from Lambda Legal's Executive Director Kevin Cathcart on Today's Ninth Circuit "Don't Ask Don't Tell" Ruling 'The air force now has to demonstrate a very important reason to keep Major Witt, a model officer and nurse, from serving her country.' (New York, May 21, 2008) Lambda Legal issued the following statement today in response to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling in Witt v. Department of the Air Force. > Full Story. [5/22/08]
CALIF. REFERENDUM LIKELY ON GAY MARRIAGE [VIDEO] Calif. Referendum Likely on Gay Marriage Associated Press • May. 17, 2008. 02:16 AM EST
The Calif. Supreme Court ruling legalizing gay marriage will not be the last word. Voters will almost certainly hold a referendum on a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage in November. (May 16) > Full Story. [5/22/08]
JUNE 2008: PRIDE MONTH TELEVISION PROGRAMMING HIGHLIGHTS June brings lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Pride celebrations to cities across the country, marking a time to reflect on the LGBT community's progress since Stonewall in 1969. As Pride festivities approach, GLAAD has compiled this guide to LGBT-interest television programming and specials scheduled for the month.
In addition, Friday, June 27 is the television premiere of the 19th Annual GLAAD Media Awards on Bravo (7 PM ET/PT). This will be the first televised airing of the celebration on a fully distributed cable network. "Thanks to our partnership with Bravo, the GLAAD Media Awards will be available to over 84 million homes, giving people across the country a chance to celebrate these media images and their creators," says GLAAD President Neil G. Giuliano. "Our community has made such incredible strides toward equality because our stories have been told in fair, accurate and inclusive ways - from journalism to TV storylines to film. Bravo's acclaimed programming has already shown that TV can portray gay and transgender people fairly and accurately with amazing success." Following the GLAAD Media Awards, Bravo will televise the basic cable premiere of Brokeback Mountain (9 PM ET/PT). > Full Story. [5/22/08]
LANDMARK GENDER EXPRESSION CASE REACHES SETTLEMENT A settlement has been reached in a landmark gender expression case. In 2007, Khadijah Farmer was allegedly forced by an employee to leave the women's restroom at New York City restaurant Caliente Cab Co. because of her masculine appearance. The incident occurred the night of the New York City Pride March. Farmer, a 28-year-old lesbian from New York City, teamed with the Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF) to file a lawsuit claiming gender discrimination. Farmer has identified as a woman all her life but partnered with TLDEF because her case touched on the discrimination faced by many gender non-conforming people. > Full Story. [5/22/08]
LGBT COMMUNITY MOURNS THE LOSS OF TWO PIONEERS The LGBT community recently lost two luminaries: influential artist Robert Rauschenberg and advocate for LGBT equality Ruth Simpson. > Full Story. [5/22/08]
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING MAY 17, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending May 17, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,051, distributed 5-19-08) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [5/20/08]
NATIONAL GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE HAILS HISTORIC CALIFORNIA SUPREME COURT DECISION SUPPORTING THE FREEDOM TO MARRY "This is an extraordinary victory for Californians and all Americans who hold fairness and opportunity as fundamental American values. Today, once again, California is leading the way in affirming the inherent dignity of all people. Today, in our hearts, we are all Californians." - Rea Carey, Acting Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force > Full Story. [5/15/08]
UPDATED FACT SHEETS PROVIDE DATA ABOUT HIV/AIDS AMONG BLACKS, LATINOS, WOMEN
Updated fact sheets, Kaiser Family Foundation: The fact sheets provide information about the impact of HIV/AIDS on blacks, Latinos and women in the U.S. Each fact sheet includes data about trends and current cases, as well as population-specific information on HIV transmission patterns and access to care (Kaiser Family Foundation release, 5/12).
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING MAY 10, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending May 10, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,050, distributed 5-12-08) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [5/13/08]
“NEWSWRAP" FOR THE WEEK ENDING MAY 3, 2008 "NewsWrap" for the week ending May 3, 2008 (As broadcast on "This Way Out" program #1,049, distributed 5-5-08) [Written by Greg Gordon, with thanks to Rex Wockner with Bill Kelley] > Full Story. [5/6/08]
GEORGE MICHAEL: A NEW ALBUM AND MAKES AMERICAN ACTING DEBUT
New York, NY (March 24, 2008) – After performing 80 shows in 12 European countries for a staggering 1.3 million fans over the past year alone, legendary superstar George Michael will be bringing his smash 25 LIVE tour to North American Arenas in the summer of 2008 in support of his new retrospective record. This will be Michael's first North American tour in 17 years. The new record, titled Twenty-Five, will be released April 1st and is a 29-song, 2-CD set featuring six new songs (including duets with superstars Paul McCartney and Mary J. Blige and a song from the Eli Stone finale, “Feeling Good”) in addition to many of Michael's iconic songs from both his solo and WHAM! career. In addition, a companion 2-disc DVD of 40 videos will also be made available.
The 25 LIVE tour broke several ticket sales records, most notably in Copenhagen. Michael's concert at The Parken Stadium sold over 50,000 tickets in the matter of minutes, shattering the previous ticket sales record at the venue, formerly held by U2. On the 25 LIVE tour, Michael left both fans and critics alike in awe:
"It was a master class in pop genius." - The Observer
"George proved he is simply one of the best vocalists this country has ever produced. A stunning performance." - The Sun
"Worth waiting for. The show was, in every single meaning of the word, perfect." - De Morgen
"A tremendous singer, a complete showman, all George Michael needs is a mike, his songs, and the magic on stage is instantaneous." - La Parisien
The North American leg of the 25 LIVE tour will kick off in San Diego on June 17th and will continue through San Jose, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Seattle, Vancouver, Minneapolis, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, New York and several other major cities. The tour will incorporate 22 shows over the course of seven weeks and Michael will perform material taken from the entire span of his career, including some classic Wham! tracks. Michael has recently teamed up with iTunes and Ticketmaster to produce an innovative media package which allows fans rare access to Michael’s videos, songs, and tickets to one of his North American 25 LIVE concerts. The package goes on sale on iTunes on March 25th. Tickets to the 25 LIVE tour will go on sale to the general public the weekend of April 6th.
George Michael has enjoyed one of the most successful and enduring careers in the history of pop music, selling more than 85 million records globally and encompassing seven US No. 1 singles, two Grammy awards, three American Music Awards, an MTV Video Music Award and two prestigious Ivor Novello awards for songwriting. His record "Faith" has sold over 20 million copies alone. In addition, Michael has garnered 11 British No. 1 singles and seven British No. 1 albums. He recently was declared the most played British artist on radio over the course of the last 20 years. On March 27th, Michael can be seen making his American acting debut on the new hit ABC series, Eli Stone, in which each episode is titled after one of his songs.
For more information about the George Michael, please visit:
CA SCHOOL SHOOTING; HATE-CRIME CHARGES HAVE BEEN FILED Local Groups for Gay Rights KCOY CBS 12 Santa Maria • Feb. 15, 2008. 03:12 AM EST > Full Story. [2/15/08]
NEWS: "CALL FOR LOVE" SUPPORTS LGBT JAMAICANS A CALL FOR LOVE: Valentine's Day 2008 by Mel Bryant
"STOP THE VIOLENCE! STOP THE HATE!" More than 30 die-hard activists, including two associates from Jamaica AIDS Services, one of whom is currently seeking asylum in the United States after threats to his life, chanted these words as they gathered at the Jamaican Consulate on Third Avenue in New York City on Valentine's Day to CALL FOR LOVE. The international action campaign, organized by Metropolitan Community Churches in response to the recent wave of mob violence directed against LGBT people in Jamaica, brought together representatives from MCC, Human Rights Watch, The Center, UNITY Fellowship, Renewed Life Ministries, Lavender and Green, Hadwen Park Congregational Church and the Peace Corps.
The Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Chair of Global Justice Ministry of Metropolitan Community Churches, recounted many of the horrific events of the past year, including the January 29th break-in to the private home of three gay men by a mob wielding clubs and machetes. "Two of those young men, doing nothing more than existing in their own home, were clubbed and macheted to the point of hospitalization," she said. "One lost an ear and may suffer paralysis from the attack. A third young man is missing and presumed dead. Only the blood trail away from the home remains."
"Enough is enough!" she called to the lunchtime crowds passing by the Consulate. "The time has come for people of goodwill around the globe to break their silence and demand that the Jamaican government and its political and social structures guarantee the safety of all Jamaicans."
Rebecca Schleiffer of Human Rights Watch recounted the horror of three gay men trapped in a pharmacy by a mob of two hundred in Montego Bay last year on Valentine's Day. "Those three young men had to place an international phone call to the Human Rights Watch," she said, "and we had to act on their behalf before the police would intervene. And even then," she continued, "those charged with protecting the lives of Jamaican citizens joined in the taunting and threatening gestures, punching one of the three in the face and stomach."
Jamaican Nathaniel Cunningham, who is seeking asylum in the United States because of death threats for his work with Jamaica AIDS Services and his courage in being out as a gay man, said, "The nightmares must end! No more sleepless nights wondering if you will be next! It's time for all Jamaicans to feel safe in their own homes and in their own country!" Cunningham led the crowd in chants calling for love to replace hate.
Speaker after speaker, including the Rev. Judith Hanlon, Pastor of the Hadwen Park Congregational Church, UCC, who had traveled to New York from Worcester, MA to participate in the demonstration, called on the Jamaican Consulate to intervene and promised to keep the pressure on until change is as evident as the violence has been. Prior to the demonstration, Rev. Bumgardner and Jamaican activist Junior Walker were politely rebuffed in their attempt to meet with the Acting Consul General, Lincoln Downer. They did, however, manage to deliver a letter calling attention to the CALL FOR LOVE campaign and promising ongoing efforts until the violence ends.
As the demonstration ended, those gathered placed flowers carrying the banner, "For the Jamaican Victims of Homophobic Hatred and Violence." As Rev. Bumgardner prepared to lead the crowd in a prayer of remembrance and promise, the Consulate's building manager came outside to say that praying on the sidewalk was not allowed. "We are going to pray now," Rev. Bumgardner responded, at which point the building manage stepped away and waited for the prayer's conclusion. A few moments later he reappeared to say that the flowers must be removed. After some negotiation, the flowers were delivered to the Consulate with their banner intact.
The Valentine's Day public actions in New York City, along with similar actions in Philadelphia, Toronto, Miami, and Washington, DC, marked the beginning of an international public awareness campaign organized by Metropolitan Community Churches.
For More Information On The New York City Action or Upcoming "Call For Love" Events, Contact: The Rev. Pat Bumgardner, Chair MCC Global Justice Team GlobalJustice@MCCchurch.net. 212-629-7440 > Full Story. [2/15/08]
GSA NETWORK, TRANSGENDER LAW CENTER, AND EQCA SADDENED OVER SHOOTING OF GAY JR. HIGH STUDENT IN OXNARD GSA Network, Transgender Law Center, and EQCA Saddened Over Shooting of Gay Jr. High Student in Oxnard > Full Story. [2/14/08]
MINISTERS WANT STATE TO LEGALIZE SAME-SEX MARRIAGE > Full Story. [2/14/08]
GLAAD APPOINTS NEW MEMBERS TO NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS GLAAD APPOINTS SIX NEW MEMBERS TO NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS > Full Story. [2/11/08]
OUT IN AMERICA ANNOUNCES LGBT WEDDING ALLIANCE Rainbow Wedding Network and Out in America Create Marketing Alliance Targeted at the Gay and Lesbian Wedding Niche > Full Story. [1/5/07]
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New York, NY (March 24, 2008) – After performing 80 shows in 12 European countries for a staggering 1.3 million fans over the past year alone, legendary superstar George Michael will be bringing his smash 25 LIVE tour to North American Arenas in the summer of 2008 in support of his new retrospective record. This will be Michael's first North American tour in 17 years. The new record, titled Twenty-Five, will be released April 1st and is a 29-song, 2-CD set featuring six new songs (including duets with superstars Paul McCartney and Mary J. Blige and a song from the Eli Stone finale, “Feeling Good”) in addition to many of Michael's iconic songs from both his solo and WHAM! career. In addition, a companion 2-disc DVD of 40 videos will also be made available. 
