www.villagevoice.com/issu...sutton.php
GG After a week like this last one, we could all use a larf!
Out 
by Gatito Grande » Fri Aug 08, 2003 6:52 pm
Out by maudmac » Mon Aug 11, 2003 2:52 am
My initial reaction (after the "Oooh!") was, "Eh, I don't know..." Country fans don't tend toward tolerance all that much. I know this well. But, you know what? There really are a whole lot of folks who like country (or some of it, at least) who are plenty open-minded. Me, for instance. I know I'm not alone. So, even if whoever wins this doesn't set country on fire, it's still a good, good thing. And definitely something I will watch, if it airs.Quote:
America's country music scene isn't exactly known for its gay artists, but a colorful pack of wanna-be stars pulled out their best rustic twangs and wailing guitars yesterday (Aug. 7) to try to change all that. Scores of country music hopefuls auditioned in New York for what is being billed as a television show to pick an openly gay country music star from about 50 contestants.
The musicians -- most of whom wore jeans and spit-polished boots -- wailed through Willie Nelson songs, crooned like Lyle Lovett and belted out ballads like Garth Brooks. Livening up the day were the Dixie Chicks With Dicks -- singing drag queens in frilly petticoats and wigs big enough to make Dolly Parton envious.
Despite the gags and quips, most were serious musicians looking for a break, said Darren McDonnell of Baltimore. "I hope it's not some kind of a joke. It could open up a lot of doors," he said, waiting on line. "At the same time, it's a risk for everyone here," he added, calling the country music industry "homophobic."
Mark Taylor, who works in the design industry in Philadelphia but auditioned in cowboy regalia, said appearing on the show could be a bigger risk when it comes to facing his conservative family. "If I make it onto the show, this will be the most silent Christmas we've ever had," he joked.
Producer Larry Dvoskin, who has not found a network to run the show tentatively called "America Pride," declared himself pleased at the quality of talent. Final choices will be made in the coming months, he said.
With the success of gay-themed television shows, this one could be well-timed, said Scott Seomin, entertainment media director for the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, a non-profit media watchdog.
"The music industry with rare exception has been a bastion for homophobia, and the closet is still a place that artists who are gay are told to remain by record label executives, managers and publicity agents," he said.
Singer Matt Alber, who traveled across the country from San Francisco to audition, said, "Country music record companies are scared America won't like a gay artist. I think it's ridiculous. Don't they just want to hear really great songs? I hope this show will show America there's nothing to be afraid of."
COPYRIGHT: (c) Reuters 2003. All rights reserved.
by The Shadowcat » Mon Aug 11, 2003 8:08 am
<- whistle? more like puffpuffpass. by Warduke » Mon Aug 11, 2003 9:46 am
by xita » Mon Aug 11, 2003 12:16 pm
oh well. Hmm, I think from the looks of those pictures, some people are serious and some people aer treating it like a joke. Looks like the dixie chicks with dicks were a big hit! - - - - - - - - - - -
"The suspense is terrible. I hope it'll last."
-Willie Wonka
by Gatito Grande » Mon Aug 11, 2003 2:10 pm
has been very welcome in Nashville since she came Out out. It's their loss! 
Out by maudmac » Mon Aug 11, 2003 5:01 pm
by xita » Tue Aug 12, 2003 1:09 pm
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"The suspense is terrible. I hope it'll last."
-Willie Wonka
by Diebrock » Sat Aug 16, 2003 11:30 am
Quote:
Scientist calls gay people 'pinnacle of evolution'
SUMMARY: While conservative groups dismiss homosexuality as "unnatural," a leading zoologist has said gay people could be seen as the "pinnacle of evolution."
At a time when religious and conservative right-wing groups are attempting to dismiss homosexuality as "unnatural," a leading zoologist has said gay people could be seen as the "pinnacle of evolution."
Speaking at the Edinburgh Book Festival, Clive Bromhall said that humankind's evolution has resulted in our present state of "infantilism," in which we break the primate mold by being playful, creative and childlike right into adulthood.
"From men's obsession with swollen breasts to our constant search for a pseudoparental God, everything about the human species is infantile," Bromhall said in a lecture.
"Like baby chimps, we have soft, downy bodies, flat faces and large, rounded heads. Like them, we too want to be kissed, cuddled and stroked; we remain playful, compliant and comparatively mild-mannered for the whole of our lives," he added.
Bromhall claims that infantilism is rejected by straight people as they age -- and that by remaining in same-sex relationships, gay men and women are actually displaying superiority over their peers.
"We've known for years that homosexuality is linked to a playful, creative character," he said.
"Homosexuals excel as artists, thespians and other playful, mimetic professions. Being playful is at the heart of being human. It's something that should be celebrated. You could say that homosexuals are at the pinnacle of human evolution."
Bromhall was speaking to promote his new book "The Eternal Child" at the festival.
_________________
How can you kill people who killed people, to show that killing people is wrong?
I've kissed her best friend. I've reached into her best friend's pocket and fished around for keys. And I gave her best friend my number. I must be doing something totally, totally wrong... - TBSOL by Dreams
by xita » Sat Aug 16, 2003 11:38 am
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"The suspense is terrible. I hope it'll last."
-Willie Wonka
by Kalita » Sat Aug 16, 2003 12:47 pm
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. "
- Margaret Mead
by Gatito Grande » Sat Aug 16, 2003 4:09 pm
) buy into the idea that homosexuality is the pinnacle of evolution 
: a distinct biologically-defined group for whom reproduction is a choice, not a sexual instinct, could indicate that Homo sapiens, as a species, has fully "arrived" to a state of environmental security. Out by Warduke » Sun Aug 17, 2003 11:32 am
Quote:
Davis to Sign Bill for Domestic Partners
SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Embattled Gov. Gray Davis announced Saturday he would sign legislation giving domestic partners most of the same legal rights that married couples have.
The bill has passed the state Assembly and is scheduled to be considered Monday by the Senate Appropriations Committee.
Davis usually doesn't indicate how he feels about legislation before it reaches his desk, but he's done so for a number of bills recently, including measures dealing with access to abortion and driver's licenses for undocumented immigrants.
Aides say the announcements have nothing to do with Davis' efforts to fend off a recall attempt.
Davis said the legislation drafted by Democratic Assemblywoman Jackie Goldberg helps ensure "fairness for all Californians."
"As governor I will continue to do everything within my power to honor the dignity, humanity and privacy of every Californian regardless of their ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender or sexual orientation," Davis said.
The domestic partners bill would, among other things, allow domestic partners to file joint state income tax returns and give them the same tax exemptions enjoyed by married couples.
It would also give them the same rights as married couples regarding the acquisition, transfer and sharing of property, health insurance and pension coverage and collection of government benefits, including public assistance.
"When this bill is signed it will be a truly historic day for everyone who supports civil rights," said Geoffrey Kors, executive director of Equality California, a gay rights group.
by xita » Sun Aug 17, 2003 12:10 pm
Quote:
The domestic partners bill would, among other things, allow domestic partners to file joint state income tax returns and give them the same tax exemptions enjoyed by married couples.
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"The suspense is terrible. I hope it'll last."
-Willie Wonka
by Patches » Sun Aug 17, 2003 4:14 pm
You know I've heard about people like me. But I never made the connection. They walk one road to set them free, And find they've gone the wrong direction. But there's no need for turning back 'cause all roads lead to where I stand. And I believe I'll walk them all No matter what I may have planned
by Gatito Grande » Mon Aug 18, 2003 1:53 pm
Out by Kalita » Mon Aug 18, 2003 2:14 pm
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. "
- Margaret Mead
by Gatito Grande » Mon Aug 18, 2003 3:03 pm
Quote:
Dear MP,
I am an American from the border state of Michigan. I have made many trips to your beautiful nation, and would like to do so in the future.
It is of great interest to me, in considering my vacation plans, the proposed Canadian law for marriage equality. Such equality would be a MAJOR PLUS on your part, to influence me to come and spend money in Canada. I know that I am not alone among Americans, in regarding Canadian marriage equality so favorably---indeed, the recent court decision in Ontario has already brought a major influx of tourism from abroad. This could be extended nation-wide . . . or could collapse, with a reversion to discrimination. Particularly in this economy, not something I would think you would fancy.
Beyond the question of dollars (Canadian or U.S.), there *is* the question of morality: equality under the law has been a great credit to Canada, and something that, in retrospect, will be looked upon with universal favor (like the U.S. Declaration of Independence, or the UN Charter of Human Rights).
I congratulate Canada for coming this far in the march for human rights. Please enshrine marriage equality in law, and earn the eventual thanks of a grateful planet (and the *immediate* influx of increased foreign spending).
Sincerely,
Out by yana » Mon Aug 18, 2003 6:32 pm
"We are one, the gurus say. Aye -- I might agree -- but one what?" -- Edward Abbey
by Ben Varkentine » Mon Aug 25, 2003 11:48 am
Ben
"Somewhere, inside something, there is a rush of greatness
Who knows what stands in front of our lives...
Silence tells me secretly everything."-Flesh Failures
by kpmuse » Tue Aug 26, 2003 3:17 pm
Quote:
The Senate is holding hearings on marriage next week. On Thursday, September 4, they will assess whether current laws are "enough" to prevent same-sex couples from being able to legally marry, or if further measures are "needed" (such as a constitutional amendment). That means that this week - TODAY, RIGHT NOW - we need you to urge your Senators to oppose any amendment to the Constitution that would discriminate against same-sex couples.
Just click here www.hrcactioncenter.org/campaign/senate_oppose_amendment to send a message to your Senators letting them know you're standing up for civil rights.
by Gatito Grande » Wed Aug 27, 2003 9:33 pm
Out by xita » Sat Aug 30, 2003 8:56 pm
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"Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose."
-Me & Bobby
McGee
by skittles » Sat Aug 30, 2003 9:04 pm
skittles
...In the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy. -- from Desiderata, Max Erhman, 1927
by Puff » Thu Sep 04, 2003 1:58 pm
by Rocci911 » Thu Sep 04, 2003 5:19 pm
by tyche » Thu Sep 04, 2003 5:45 pm
Quote:
news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/3196119.stm
Dutch gays launch marriage manual
By Geraldine Coughlan
BBC correspondent in The Hague
Dutch gay organisations have published a marriage manual in response to the Vatican's campaign against same-sex unions.
Dutch gays say the manual is for people who want to be really free
The 60-page guide is aimed at gay rights activists around the world and explains how the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalise gay marriages.
It offers advice to gays abroad campaigning for the right to same-sex marriages.
The guide calls on gays to challenge discriminatory laws and fight for equal rights through the courts.
"It's a fight for people who want to be really free and to give equal opportunities to everyone," said Dutch Labour Party MP Jose Smits, who together with her lesbian partner has three children.
"So, it's not simply a matter of gays who want to have the same right as heterosexuals or a moral question," Ms Smits said.
"It's a political battle for equal rights for everyone."
'Moral duty'
In July, the Vatican called on Roman Catholics around the world to oppose the legalisation of marriages between same-sex couples.
It called it a "moral duty".
Non-Catholics have also been urged to join in the campaign.
The Catholic Church in the Netherlands refused to comment on the new booklet brought out by gay organisations here, until after the bishops' conference next week.
"As bishops they should do what they have to do - we consider it, we are a Christian Democrat party. But it does not mean we take over their point of vision," said Katlien Ferrier, an MP for the senior coalition party, the Christian Democrats.
"We have our own responsibility and we are independent representatives of the people of this country in which there is a law which makes it possible for people of the same sex to get married," Ms Ferrier said.
'Important step'
The Mayor of Amsterdam, Job Cohen, performed the first same-sex wedding in the country.
He said the Netherlands took an important step - making it possible for other countries to consider opening up marriage to gays.
He said the new booklet - which is being sent to foreign gay organisations - is also intended to help authorities abroad see how they can change legislation.
Latest figures show more than 4,000 Dutch gay couples had chosen to tie the knot in a civil marriage by 2002.
The Netherlands legalised same-sex marriages in 2001.
Since then, Belgium and two provinces in Canada have allowed gays to legally marry.
Other countries - such as France, Germany and Argentina - allow homosexual couples to register their partnerships.
Quote:
news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/3081252.stm
Russian Church in gay wedding row
Mikhail and Denis are standing for the Russian parliament
The Russian Orthodox Church has defrocked a priest for conducting the country's first reported gay wedding.
Church authorities in the city of Nizhny Novgorod, east of Moscow, said the ceremony was a blasphemous act and a gimmick to attract public attention to single-sex unions.
"The Russian Orthodox Church is against single-sex marriages and condemns homosexual relations as a deadly sin," the diocese press service said in a statement.
A spokesman for the diocese described the priest who conducted the service, Father Vladimir, as a "black sheep".
Partners Denis Gogolev and Misha Morozov have described the ceremony, which took place on Monday, as the first ever gay church wedding in Russia.
"Misha and I want to show that gays can and should live in Russia, and quite openly," Mr Gogolev said.
'Spouses'
They took their vows in a small chapel, exchanging rings, circling the altar and donning crowns as in a traditional Orthodox wedding.
Newspaper reports said there was some confusion during the service, with the priest asking who was the husband and who was the wife.
Mr Gogolev replied that they did not mind and both wished to be considered "spouses".
Homosexual relations between men were considered a crime in Soviet times.
They were legalised in 1993 - though a group of members of the Russian parliament last year tried to reverse the move in what they said was a campaign to restore traditional moral values.
Excommunication
The Russian Orthodox Church also opposes euthanasia, abortion and artificial insemination.
A priest who conducts a gay wedding could face excommunication, Father Alexander of the Nizhny Novgorod diocese told the Reuters news agency.
Both the men married by Father Vladimir are standing in December's parliamentary elections.
They are putting their hopes in the female vote.
"Women love and respect us," Denis said. "They even idolise us."
by funkyasian » Fri Sep 05, 2003 6:33 am
Nothing can cure the soul but the senses, just as nothing can cure the senses but the soul. ~ Oscar Wilde
by Ben Varkentine » Fri Sep 05, 2003 12:41 pm
Ben
"We are all one. And if we do not know, we will learn it the hard way."
-- Bayard Rustin, organizer of the 1963 March on Washington
by kpmuse » Sun Sep 07, 2003 10:39 am
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