Recent E-mails from the Kentucky Fairness Alliance http://eqfed.org/kyfairness/home.html Recent E-mails from the Kentucky Fairness Alliance Kentucky Fairness Alliance ? 2006-2007, all rights reserved. Join us for Coffee and a Fairness Chat http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=34697520 newsletter 2009-07-06 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Celebrate Fairness with Coffee, Conversation, Poetry, and Song! Please join us for coffee, conversation, poetry, and song this Friday evening. Courtyard Cafe, First Unitarian Church 809 S Fourth Street, Louisville 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. (EDT), Friday, July 10 $3 Cover Charge Local coffee and snacks will be available as well as an open mic session for you to sing, read poetry, etc. Part of the proceeds will benefit the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA). "Information will be available about the work being done to educate others on statewide fairness," said Travis Myles, KFA Board Chairperson. "We are going to use this time to talk about the need for everyone to do what they can and make every opportunity for success count." In fairness, Your KFA Team Please join us for coffee, conversation, poetry, and song this Friday evening. 

Courtyard Cafe, First Unitarian Church
809 S Fourth Street, Louisville
6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. (EDT), Friday, July 10
$3 Cover Charge

Local coffee and snacks will be available as well as an open mic session for you to sing, read poetry, etc. Part of the proceeds will benefit the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA).

"Information will be available about the work being done to educate others on statewide fairness," said Travis Myles, KFA Board Chairperson. "We are going to use this time to talk about the need for everyone to do what they can and make every opportunity for success count."

In fairness,
Your KFA Team

]]> Statewide Candlelight Morehead http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=34552083 newsletter 2009-06-26 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Tomorrow: Candles Across the Commonwealth As you know, the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) has been working diligently to pass a statewide fairness bill through the Kentucky Legislature. If passed, the bill would bring equal rights to every citizen of KY, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Tomorrow evening, KFA will be holding vigils around the state to bring awareness to this cause and to reflect on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. Candles Across the Commonwealth Little Bell Tower, Morehead State University Sunday, June 28 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. (EDT) The Stonewall Riots marked the birth of the modern civil rights movement for the LGBT community. It has been said that before the riots the LGBT community was known about, but discounted. "Stonewall was an awakening," said Travis Myles, KFA Board Chairperson. "We reflect back on it every year, but never before have we done so with so much potential to advance fairness for the LGBT community than we do in 2009. We close LGBT Pride Month looking forward and more determined than ever." In fairness, Your KFA Team P.S. - The Morehead "Candles Across the Commonwealth" vigil is being sponsored locally by KFA and ALLYance at Morehead State University. As you know, the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) has been working diligently to pass a statewide fairness bill through the Kentucky Legislature. If passed, the bill would bring equal rights to every citizen of KY, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

Tomorrow evening, KFA will be holding vigils around the state to bring awareness to this cause and to reflect on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. 

The Stonewall Riots marked the birth of the modern civil rights movement for the LGBT community. It has been said that before the riots the LGBT community was known about, but discounted.

"Stonewall was an awakening," said Travis Myles, KFA Board Chairperson. "We reflect back on it every year, but never before have we done so with so much potential to advance fairness for the LGBT community than we do in 2009. We close LGBT Pride Month looking forward and more determined than ever."

In fairness,
Your KFA Team

P.S. - The Morehead "Candles Across the Commonwealth" vigil is being sponsored locally by KFA and ALLYance at Morehead State University.

]]> Statewide Candlelight Lexington http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=34551821 newsletter 2009-06-26 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Tomorrow: Candles Across Our Commonwealth As you know, the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) has been working diligently to pass a statewide fairness bill through the Kentucky Legislature. If passed, the bill would bring equal rights to every citizen of KY, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Tomorrow evening, KFA will be holding vigils around the state to bring awareness to this cause and to reflect on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. Candles Across Our Commonwealth Triangle Park, Lexington Sunday, June 28 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. (EDT) The Stonewall Riots marked the birth of the modern civil rights movement for the LGBT community. It has been said that before the riots the LGBT community was known about, but discounted. "Stonewall was an awakening," said Travis Myles, KFA Board Chairperson. "We reflect back on it every year, but never before have we done so with so much potential to advance fairness for the LGBT community than we do in 2009. We close LGBT Pride Month looking forward and more determined than ever." In fairness, Your KFA Team P.S. - The Lexington "Candles Across Our Commonwealth" vigil is being sponsored locally by several organizations including: KFA, Lexington Fairness, Lexington GLSO, LGBT Movies, United Sisterhood, & AVOL. As you know, the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) has been working diligently to pass a statewide fairness bill through the Kentucky Legislature. If passed, the bill would bring equal rights to every citizen of KY, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

Tomorrow evening, KFA will be holding vigils around the state to bring awareness to this cause and to reflect on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. 

Candles Across Our Commonwealth
Triangle Park, Lexington
Sunday, June 28
8:00 to 9:00 p.m. (EDT)

The Stonewall Riots marked the birth of the modern civil rights movement for the LGBT community. It has been said that before the riots the LGBT community was known about, but discounted.

"Stonewall was an awakening," said Travis Myles, KFA Board Chairperson. "We reflect back on it every year, but never before have we done so with so much potential to advance fairness for the LGBT community than we do in 2009. We close LGBT Pride Month looking forward and more determined than ever."

In fairness,
Your KFA Team

P.S. - The Lexington "Candles Across Our Commonwealth" vigil is being sponsored locally by several organizations including: KFA, Lexington Fairness, Lexington GLSO, LGBT Movies, United Sisterhood, & AVOL.

]]> Statewide Candlelight Vigil http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=34550747 newsletter 2009-06-26 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Tomorrow: Candles Across Our Commonwealth As you know, the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) has been working diligently to pass a statewide fairness bill through the Kentucky Legislature. If passed, the bill would bring equal rights to every citizen of KY, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Tomorrow evening, KFA will be holding vigils around the state to bring awareness to this cause and to reflect on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. Candles Across Our Commonwealth Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park 6th and Chestnut, Louisville Sunday, June 28 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. (EDT) The Stonewall Riots marked the birth of the modern civil rights movement for the LGBT community. It has been said that before the riots the LGBT community was known about, but discounted. "With every year that has passed since Stonewall, significant strides have been made to show respect and fairness towards our community," said Nick Wilkerson, KFA Board member. "This vigil is a way for us to show respect for the lives and work of all those that fought for fairness before us and celebrate everything we are working on today." In fairness, Your KFA Team P.S. - The Louisville "Candles Across Our Commonwealth" vigil is being sponsored locally by several organizations including: KFA, ACLU of KY, Central Presbyterian Church, CFAIR, Fairness Campaign, Office of LGBT Services/U of L, and Pandora Productions. As you know, the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) has been working diligently to pass a statewide fairness bill through the Kentucky Legislature. If passed, the bill would bring equal rights to every citizen of KY, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

Tomorrow evening, KFA will be holding vigils around the state to bring awareness to this cause and to reflect on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. 

Candles Across Our Commonwealth
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park
6th and Chestnut, Louisville
Sunday, June 28
8:00 to 9:00 p.m. (EDT)

The Stonewall Riots marked the birth of the modern civil rights movement for the LGBT community. It has been said that before the riots the LGBT community was known about, but discounted.

"With every year that has passed since Stonewall, significant strides have been made to show respect and fairness towards our community," said Nick Wilkerson, KFA Board member. "This vigil is a way for us to show respect for the lives and work of all those that fought for fairness before us and celebrate everything we are working on today."

In fairness,
Your KFA Team

P.S. - The Louisville "Candles Across Our Commonwealth" vigil is being sponsored locally by several organizations including: KFA, ACLU of KY, Central Presbyterian Church, CFAIR, Fairness Campaign, Office of LGBT Services/U of L, and Pandora Productions.

]]> Inclusive ENDA Introduced! Ask your Representative to Become a Cosponsor! http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=34468182 newsletter 2009-06-23 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Inclusive ENDA Introduced! Ask your Representative to Become a Cosponsor! Inclusive ENDA Introduced! Ask your Representative to Become a Cosponsor! This week, Representative Barney Frank, joined by Reps. Tammy Baldwin and Jared Polis, introduced an inclusive version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) - which would extend the existing federal law prohibiting employment discrimination to protect people on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. The bill was introduced by a group of bi-partisan Representatives and it is important that you contact your legislator to become a cosponsor as well. Becoming a cosponsor shows that the Representative will stand firm with our community and helps build momentum for the bill's passage. In DC, make their phone ring! Call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and have them connect you to your Representative (based on your zip code). Tell them: "I am a constituent and I would like you to please tell Representative _______ that I would like him/her to become a cosponsor of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. ENDA would ban discrimination against all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in the workplace. Can you tell me whether or not Representative _______ has cosponsored the bill?" Send an email! Once you've made your call, you can reiterate your support with an email to your Representative with a couple of clicks of a mouse. Go to: http://eqfed.org/campaign/endaintroduction_609_clone At home, set up a visit! The most effective action is a visit. Because Representatives will be home over the August recess, now is a great time to start setting up a meeting with you and other community members to visit with the Representative (or their staffs) in their home district offices during this time. For help setting up visits, check out: -The Task Force ENDA Grassroots Toolkit (http://www.thetaskforce.org/enda07/ENDAtoolkit_c4.pdf) -National Center for Transgender Equality's Making Your Voice Heard (http://www.nctequality.org/Resources/VoiceHeard.pdf) -PFLAG's Bringing the Message Home (http://community.pflag.org/Page.aspx?pid=601) This week, Representative Barney Frank, joined by Reps. Tammy Baldwin and Jared Polis, introduced an inclusive version of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) - which would extend the existing federal law prohibiting employment discrimination to protect people on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.   

The bill was introduced by a group of bi-partisan Representatives and it is important that you contact your legislator to become a cosponsor as well. Becoming a cosponsor shows that the Representative will stand firm with our community and helps build momentum for the bill’s passage.

 

In DC, make their phone ring!

Call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and have them connect you to your Representative (based on your zip code). Tell them:

 

I am a constituent and I would like you to please tell Representative _______ that I would like him/her to become a cosponsor of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. ENDA would ban discrimination against all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in the workplace. Can you tell me whether or not Representative _______  has cosponsored  the bill?

 

Send an email!

Once you’ve made your call, you can reiterate your support with an email to your Representative with a couple of clicks of a mouse. Click here.

 

At home, set up a visit!

The most effective action is a visit. Because Representatives will be home over the August recess, now is a great time to start setting up a meeting with you and other community members to visit with the Representative (or their staffs) in their home district offices during this time. For help setting up visits, check out:

 

]]> Senate Hearing on Matthew Shepard Act http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=34448868 newsletter 2009-06-21 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Senate Hearing on Matthew Shepard Act! The Senate Judiciary Committee has scheduled a hearing on the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention for Thursday, June 25, 2009, so your Senators need to hear from you now! Every hour of every day, at least one hate crime offense is committed somewhere in the United States. Of those attacked, it's estimated that at least 15% of hate crimes are related to a person's perceived or actual sexual orientation or gender identity. Let your Senators know that this is unacceptable by cutting and pasting this address into your browser: http://eqfed.org/campaign/StopHateCrimes_0609_clone_5 The Matthew Shepard Act gives the Justice Department the power to investigate and prosecute bias-motivated violence. It protects people based on actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. Take action and let your Senators know this bill is important to you! Thank you for making a difference! Please urge your Senators to support the Matthew Shepard Act!

The Senate Judiciary Committee has scheduled a hearing on the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act for Thursday, June 25, 2009, so your Senators need to hear from you now!

Every hour of every day, at least one hate crime offense is committed somewhere in the United States. Of those attacked, it's estimated that at least 15% of hate crimes are related to a person's perceived or actual sexual orientation or gender identity.  Click here to tell your Senators this is unacceptable.

The Matthew Shepard Act gives the Justice Department the power to investigate and prosecute bias-motivated violence.  It protects people based on actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. Please take action today and let your Senators know this bill is important to you!

Thank you for making a difference!

 ]]> Film Series Week Four 2009 http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=34210286 newsletter 2009-06-12 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Film Series: Final Week Starting this Friday you can check out the final installments in this year's Louisville Gay & Lesbian Film Series at Village 8 Theaters: "Sex Positive" and "Breakfast with Scot." "Sex Positive" explores the life of Richard Berkowitz, a revolutionary gay S&M-hustler-turned-AIDS activist in the 1980s, whose incomparable contribution to the invention of safe sex has never been aptly credited. Berkowitz emerged from the epicenter of the epidemic as a community leader, demanding a solution to the problem before anyone else would pay attention. However, it was not Berkowitz' voice alone that sparked contention. Dr. Joseph Sonnabend, a controversial virologist and AIDS doctor, postulated that AIDS was more complicated than just a new virus. With Sonnabend's theory in tow, Berkowitz fought, alongside beloved activist and musician Michael Callen, for safer sex practices without giving up on sex altogether. Winning "Best Family Feature" at the Directors Guild of Canada Awards, "Breakfast with Scot" was adapted from the novel by Michael Downing, Eric lives for all things hockey. Now in his thirties, he's managed to turn his stint as an ex- Toronto Maple Leaf into a full-time gig as commentator for sports TV. He's living the dream! But when Eric's boyfriend Sam announces that they're to become temporary guardians of a young boy, Eric's comfortable world shatters. Enter Scot - a recently orphaned, swishy 11-year-old sissy-of-a-boy - and Eric's mirror opposite. Freaked out by Scot's 'joie de vivre,' Eric and Sam gently nudge Scot away from scented hand cream and all things pink, towards a more 'acceptable' pastime - hockey. But after Scot's disastrous first game, Eric begins to rethink the compromises he's made in his own life in order to be accepted. KFA is proud to have partnered again with Village 8 and the Letter newspaper to bring all the films shown this month to Kentucky. Get your tickets for these last two online - http://www.village8.com/glfs/glfs_films.htm! In Fairness, Your KFA Team

Starting this Friday you can check out the final installments in this year's Louisville Gay & Lesbian Film Series at Village 8 Theaters: "Sex Positive" and "Breakfast with Scot."

"Sex Positive" explores the life of Richard Berkowitz, a revolutionary gay S&M-hustler-turned-AIDS activist in the 1980s, whose incomparable contribution to the invention of safe sex has never been aptly credited. Berkowitz emerged from the epicenter of the epidemic as a community leader, demanding a solution to the problem before anyone else would pay attention. However, it was not Berkowitz’ voice alone that sparked contention. Dr. Joseph Sonnabend, a controversial virologist and AIDS doctor, postulated that AIDS was more complicated than just a new virus. With Sonnabend’s theory in tow, Berkowitz fought, alongside beloved activist and musician Michael Callen, for safer sex practices without giving up on sex altogether.

Winning "Best Family Feature" at the Directors Guild of Canada Awards, "Breakfast with Scot" was adapted from the novel by Michael Downing, Eric lives for all things hockey. Now in his thirties, he’s managed to turn his stint as an ex- Toronto Maple Leaf into a full-time gig as commentator for sports TV. He’s living the dream! But when Eric’s boyfriend Sam announces that they’re to become temporary guardians of a young boy, Eric’s comfortable world shatters. Enter Scot - a recently orphaned, swishy 11-year-old sissy-of-a-boy — and Eric’s mirror opposite. Freaked out by Scot’s ‘joie de vivre,’ Eric and Sam gently nudge Scot away from scented hand cream and all things pink, towards a more ‘acceptable’ pastime - hockey. But after Scot’s disastrous first game, Eric begins to rethink the compromises he’s made in his own life in order to be accepted.

KFA is proud to have partnered again with Village 8 and the Letter newspaper to bring all the films shown this month to Kentucky. Get your tickets for these last two online!

In Fairness,
Your KFA Team


 

]]> Voice and Visibility at Kentuckiana Pride http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=33929963 newsletter 2009-06-12 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Voice and Visibility: Time for Pride You can celebrate Pride while helping to build a fair Kentucky! Join us as a volunteer during the Kentuckiana Pride Festival. Saturday June 20 The Belvedere in Louisville 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Contact us at info@kentuckyfairness.org to sign up for a two-hour shift. We'll cover your admission to the Belvedere, which is good for the whole day. Kentuckiana Pride Festival is the biggest Pride celebration in the state. You'll meet new people, have some fun, and be a part of our movement to create a Commonwealth in which all people and all families are treated with dignity and respect. After all, raising our voice and visibility is what Pride, and KFA, are all about. This year's entertainment at Kentuckiana includes Indigo Girls and Tiffany! More information on the festival can be found on their website at www.kentuckianapridefestival.org. We look forward to seeing you there, Your KFA Team! P.S. The KFA Online Store (http://www.cafepress.com/kyfairness/3032574) is stocked and ready for Pride '09. Show your solidarity with Kentucky's fair-minded majority, and support KFA's advocacy and outreach efforts with your purchase. You'll find all kinds of items, something for every member of your family. Check it out today! Logo: Unbridled Pride.You can celebrate Pride while helping to build a fair Kentucky! Join us as a volunteer during the Kentuckiana Pride Festival.

Saturday June 20
The Belvedere in Louisville
12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Contact us to sign up for a two-hour shift. We'll cover your admission to the Belvedere, which is good for the whole day.

Kentuckiana Pride Festival is the biggest Pride celebration in the state. You'll meet new people, have some fun, and be a part of our movement to create a Commonwealth in which all people and all families are treated with dignity and respect. After all, raising our voice and visibility is what Pride, and KFA, are all about.

This year's entertainment at Kentuckiana includes Indigo Girls and Tiffany! More information on the festival can be found on their website.

We look forward to seeing you there,
Your KFA Team!

P.S. The KFA Online Store is stocked and ready for Pride '09. Show your solidarity with Kentucky's fair-minded majority, and support KFA's advocacy and outreach efforts with your purchase. You'll find all kinds of items, something for every member of your family. Check it out today!

Ampersand. The Ampersand symbolizes the solidarity we are building through Friends & Family, and suggests the inclusiveness we are working toward. It reflects the idea that no one individual, legislator, organization, or city can carry all the water for equality. Our success lies in our solidarity.

]]> June 17 Message http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=33929351 newsletter 2009-06-09 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org KY Commission Hosts Public Hearing Next week, the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights (KCHR) will host the first ever educational program by a Kentucky government agency on sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination. This public hearing will be held in Richmond where local efforts are underway to pass Kentucky's fourth local fairness ordinance. Ordinances are already on the books in Lexington/Fayette County, Louisville/Jefferson County, and the City of Covington. A Fair Future For Kentucky: A Call For An End To Discrimination on the Basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity June 17, 2009 - 6:00 p.m. (EST) City Hall Commission Chamber - Richmond, KY The KCHR is conducting a series of advocacy hearings across the state. Each hearing focuses on a particular group that is protected under the Kentucky Civil Rights Act. While the Act has not yet been amended to include protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, KCHR unanimously endorsed the passage of a statewide fairness law through formal resolution last year. The hearing will include invited panelists/speakers Jody Cofer of Murray, Jennifer Crossen of Lexington, Rev. Don Smith of Covington, and Carla Wallace of Louisville. The program will also include brief remarks by KCHR Executive Director John Johnson. The program will be filmed and broadcast on local access television in Richmond. Please make plans to join us and other fair-minded Kentuckians for this historic program. In Fairness, Your KFA Team The Kentucky Commission on Human Rights is a state agency that was created in 1960 to encourage fair treatment, foster mutual understanding and respect, and discourage discrimination. The Commission consists of 11 commissioners who are appointed by the Governor from Kentucky's seven judicial districts and the state-at-large.

Next week, the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights (KCHR) will host the first ever educational program by a Kentucky government agency on sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination. This public hearing will be held in Richmond where local efforts are underway to pass Kentucky’s fourth local fairness ordinance. Ordinances are already on the books in Lexington/Fayette County, Louisville/Jefferson County, and the City of Covington.

A Fair Future For Kentucky: A Call For An End To Discrimination
on the Basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
June 17, 2009 – 6:00 p.m. (EST)
City Hall Commission Chamber - Richmond, KY

The KCHR is conducting a series of advocacy hearings across the state. Each hearing focuses on a particular group that is protected under the Kentucky Civil Rights Act. While the Act has not yet been amended to include protection from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, KCHR unanimously endorsed the passage of a statewide fairness law through formal resolution last year. 

The hearing will include invited panelists/speakers Jody Cofer of Murray, Jennifer Crossen of Lexington, Rev. Don Smith of Covington, and Carla Wallace of Louisville. The program will also include brief remarks by KCHR Executive Director John Johnson.

The program will be filmed and broadcast on local access television in Richmond. Please make plans to join us and other fair-minded Kentuckians for this historic program.

In Fairness,
Your KFA Team

The Kentucky Commission on Human Rights is a state agency that was created in 1960 to encourage fair treatment, foster mutual understanding and respect, and discourage discrimination. The Commission consists of 11 commissioners who are appointed by the Governor from Kentucky's seven judicial districts and the state-at-large.

]]> Film Series Week Two 2009 http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=33861020 newsletter 2009-06-09 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Film Series: Week Two Starting this Friday you can check out two more installments in the Louisville Gay & Lesbian Film Series at Village 8 Theaters: "Serbis" and "Antarctica." "Serbis," directed by Brillante Ma. Mendoza, follows the Pineda family in the Filipino city of Angeles. Bigamy, unwanted pregnancy, possible incest and bothersome skin irritations are all part of their daily challenges, but the real "star" of the show is an enormous, dilapidated movie theater that doubles as family business and living space. At one time a prestige establishment, the theater now runs porn double bills and serves as a meeting ground for hustlers of every conceivable persuasion. The film captures the sordid, fetid atmosphere, interweaving various family subplots with the comings and goings of customers, thieves and even a runaway goat while enveloping the viewer in a maelstrom of sound, noise and continuous motion. Kevin Thomas of the Los Angeles Times, said "Superb, utterly compelling, gritty yet tender," about "Serbis." "Compelling," according to the New York Times, "Antarctica" certainly proves hearts are melting in Tel Aviv. In two days, Omer will hit a milestone; his 30th birthday. Like many his age, he hasn't found himself. But then Omer is hardly looking. Instead he chooses to dive in the stacks of books at the local library, where he works. From time to time he goes on blind dates. He meets Danny on one of his dates. 20 years old and full of enthusiasm, Danny dreams of becoming a dancer. Follow Omer and the attractive others in this fun film. Check out all the films scheduled for this month's film series on the Village 8 website - http://www.village8.com/glfs/glfs_films.htm. KFA is proud to partner with Village 8 and the Letter newspaper to bring these films to Kentucky. Get your tickets online! In Fairness, Your KFA Team

Starting this Friday you can check out two more installments in the Louisville Gay & Lesbian Film Series at Village 8 Theaters: "Serbis" and "Antarctica."

“Serbis, “ directed by Brillante Ma. Mendoza, follows the Pineda family in the Filipino city of Angeles. Bigamy, unwanted pregnancy, possible incest and bothersome skin irritations are all part of their daily challenges, but the real "star" of the show is an enormous, dilapidated movie theater that doubles as family business and living space. At one time a prestige establishment, the theater now runs porn double bills and serves as a meeting ground for hustlers of every conceivable persuasion. The film captures the sordid, fetid atmosphere, interweaving various family subplots with the comings and goings of customers, thieves and even a runaway goat while enveloping the viewer in a maelstrom of sound, noise and continuous motion.  Kevin Thomas of the Los Angeles Times, said “Superb, utterly compelling, gritty yet tender,” about “Serbis.”

“Compelling,” according to the New York Times, “Antarctica” certainly proves hearts are melting in Tel Aviv.  In two days, Omer will hit a milestone; his 30th birthday. Like many his age, he hasn't found himself. But then Omer is hardly looking. Instead he chooses to dive in the stacks of books at the local library, where he works. From time to time he goes on blind dates. He meets Danny on one of his dates. 20 years old and full of enthusiasm, Danny dreams of becoming a dancer. Follow Omer and the attractive others in this fun film.

Check out all the films scheduled for this month's film series on the Village 8 website.

KFA is proud to partner with Village 8 and the Letter newspaper to bring these films to Kentucky. Get your tickets online!

In Fairness,
Your KFA Team


 

]]> Film Series Week Three 2009 http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=33994774 newsletter 2009-06-08 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Film Series: Week Three Starting this Friday you can check out two more installments in the Louisville Gay & Lesbian Film Series at Village 8 Theaters: "The Amazing Truth About Queen Raquela" and "I Can't Think Straight." This "Grand Jury Prize" winner in the Philippines, "The Amazing Truth About Queen Raquela" is about Raquela - a "ladyboy" - from the Philippines who dreams of escaping the streets of Cebu City for a fairy tale life in Paris. In order to make her dreams come true, she turns from prostitution toward the more lucrative business of Internet porn. Her success as a porn star brings new friends, including Valerie, a ladyboy in Iceland, and Michael, the owner of the website Raquela works for. Valerie helps Raquela get as far as Iceland. From there, Michael offers her a rendezvous in Paris. Will Paris be everything she dreamed of? And will Michael turn out to be her Prince Charming? "I Can't Think Straight" is a romantic comedy about Tala, a London-based Jordanian who prepares for an elaborate wedding with her fiancé, when she encounters Leyla, a young British Indian woman who is dating her best friend Ali. Spirited Christian Tala and shy Muslim Leyla could not be more different from each other but the attraction is immediate. Tala?s feisty nature provokes Leyla out of her shell and soon both women reveal their feelings for each other. But Tala is not ready to accept the implications of the choice her heart has made and escapes back to Jordan where her chain-smoking high-brow mother finishes preparations for an ostentatious wedding. Check out all the films scheduled for this month's film series on the Village 8 website - http://www.village8.com/glfs/glfs_films.htm. KFA is proud to partner with Village 8 and the Letter newspaper to bring these films to Kentucky. Get your tickets online! In Fairness, Your KFA Team

Starting this Friday you can check out two more installments in the Louisville Gay & Lesbian Film Series at Village 8 Theaters: "The Amazing Truth About Queen Raquela" and "I Can't Think Straight."

This "Grand Jury Prize" winner in the Philippines, "The Amazing Truth About Queen Raquela" is about Raquela - a “ladyboy” - from the Philippines who dreams of escaping the streets of Cebu City for a fairy tale life in Paris. In order to make her dreams come true, she turns from prostitution toward the more lucrative business of Internet porn. Her success as a porn star brings new friends, including Valerie, a ladyboy in Iceland, and Michael, the owner of the website Raquela works for. Valerie helps Raquela get as far as Iceland. From there, Michael offers her a rendezvous in Paris. Will Paris be everything she dreamed of? And will Michael turn out to be her Prince Charming? 

"I Can't Think Straight" is a romantic comedy about Tala, a London-based Jordanian who prepares for an elaborate wedding with her fiancé, when she encounters Leyla, a young British Indian woman who is dating her best friend Ali. Spirited Christian Tala and shy Muslim Leyla could not be more different from each other but the attraction is immediate. Tala’s feisty nature provokes Leyla out of her shell and soon both women reveal their feelings for each other. But Tala is not ready to accept the implications of the choice her heart has made and escapes back to Jordan where her chain-smoking high-brow mother finishes preparations for an ostentatious wedding.

Check out all the films scheduled for this month's film series on the Village 8 website.

KFA is proud to partner with Village 8 and the Letter newspaper to bring these films to Kentucky. Get your tickets online!

In Fairness,
Your KFA Team


 

]]> Take Action to support LGBT Immigrant Families! http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=33869584 newsletter 2009-06-01 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Support LGBT Immigrant Families! Tell Congress: Keep Our Families Together! Congressman Mike Honda (D-CA), a long-time champion of the LGBT community, will soon introduce The Reuniting Families Act. This landmark immigration bill ends harmful practices -- such as long visa wait times and discrimination against LGBT families -- that prevent loving families from being together. ACT NOW to Urge Your Member of Congress to Cosponsor the Reuniting Families Act! * Email (http://eqfed.org/campaign/ReunitingFamilies_clone_2) or call your Representative NOW and urge them to cosponsor the Reuniting Families Act! Contact the Capital Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 to be directly connected to your Representative. (If you don't know who your representative is you can find out at www.congressmerge.com ) *Forward this message to 10 friends immediately and urge them to participate. Thanks for making sure that comprehensive immigration reform is truly comprehensive -- and includes LGBT families! For more information on immigration discrimination against LGBT families, see http://www.immigrationequality.org . For more information on the Reuniting Families Act and its supporters, see http://honda.house.gov/legislation/2009/family-reunification/
  • Email or call your Representative NOW and urge them to cosponsor the Reuniting Families Act! Contact the Capital Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 to be directly connected to your Representative. (If you don't know who your representative is you can find out at www.congressmerge.com )
  • Forward this message to 10 friends immediately and urge them to participate.
    • Thanks for making sure that comprehensive immigration reform is truly comprehensive and includes LGBT families! For more information on immigration discrimination against LGBT families, see www.immigrationequality.org. For more information on the Reuniting Families Act and its supporters, see Congressman Honda's Congressional page. ]]>         Cumberlands Update May 2009 http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=33796426 newsletter 2009-05-25 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Fairness in Public Funding: Cumberlands Update In 2006, Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) initiated a legal challenge, involving $11 million in state funds being appropriated to a private, religion-based institution, University of the Cumberlands, that is on-going today. This case continues to move forward and will ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court of Kentucky! Case History: April, 2006 - Initial case filed and proceedings began - March, 2008 - Ret. Franklin Circuit Judge Crittenden ruled that such funding violated several sections of the Kentucky Constitution - April, 2008 - University of the Cumberlands requested their appeal be moved from the Court of Appeals to the Supreme Court of Kentucky - December, 2008 - Transfer motion granted by the Supreme Court of Kentucky - March, 2009 - University of the Cumberlands filed their brief for the Court. Also, briefs were filed in support of KFA's position by the Kentucky Education Association, American Civil Liberties Union, and the American Jewish Congress - May, 2009 - Brief of Appellees filed The University of the Cumberlands expelled honor student Jason Johnson in April of 2006, simply because he is gay. Shortly after Jason's story broke, our allies in the legislature alerted us to the multi-million dollar recurring appropriation, tucked quietly into the 2006 state budget. The timeline going forward could place oral arguments, if allowed by the Court, in mid-to-late fall. David Tachau, Louisville attorney of Tachau Meek PLC, continues to represent KFA, Christina Gilgor, Rev. Dr. Pennybacker, Rev. Dr. Simmons, and the Jefferson County Teachers Association in this case. Tachau Meek PLC is handling this case pro-bono. KFA says, "The General Assembly's proposed Pharmacy School Building and Pharmacy Scholarship Program appropriations are prohibited under sections 5, 171, and 189 of Kentucky's Constitution..." (Brief of Appellees, May, 2009). Please consider making a donation to KFA today. With a contribution, you are supporting our efforts for fairness in the Commonwealth. You can make your contribution here: https://secure.ga4.org/01/friendsandfamily071. In Fairness, Your KFA Team! In 2006, Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) initiated a legal challenge, involving $11 million in state funds being appropriated to a private, religion-based institution, University of the Cumberlands, that is on-going today.  This case continues to move forward and will ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court of Kentucky! 

    Case History

    April, 2006 – Initial case filed and proceedings began 

    March, 2008 – Ret. Franklin Circuit Judge Crittenden ruled that such funding violated several sections of the Kentucky Constitution 

    April, 2008 – University of the Cumberlands requested their appeal be moved from the Court of Appeals to the Supreme Court of Kentucky  

    December, 2008 – Transfer motion granted by the Supreme Court of Kentucky 

    March, 2009 – University of the Cumberlands filed their brief for the Court.  Also, briefs were filed in support of KFA’s position by the Kentucky Education Association, American Civil Liberties Union, and the American Jewish Congress 

    May, 2009 – Brief of Appellees filed

    The University of the Cumberlands expelled honor student Jason Johnson in April of 2006, simply because he is gay. Shortly after Jason's story broke, our allies in the legislature alerted us to the multi-million dollar recurring appropriation, tucked quietly into the 2006 state budget. 

    The timeline going forward could place oral arguments, if allowed by the Court, in mid-to-late fall. 

    Your support of KFA remains crucial as we say that state-subsidized discrimination is wrong! 

    David Tachau, Louisville attorney of Tachau Meek PLC, continues to represent KFA, Christina Gilgor, Rev. Dr. Pennybacker, Rev. Dr. Simmons, and the Jefferson County Teachers Association in this case.  Tachau Meek PLC is handling this case pro-bono.

    KFA says, “The General Assembly’s proposed Pharmacy School Building and Pharmacy Scholarship Program appropriations are prohibited under sections 5, 171, and 189 of Kentucky’s Constitution...” (Brief of Appellees, May, 2009).   

    Please consider making a donation to KFA today. With a contribution, you are supporting our efforts for fairness in the Commonwealth.  

    In Fairness,
    Your KFA Team!

     

    ]]>         The films are rolling http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=33736300 newsletter 2009-05-20 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org The Film Reels Are Ready! The Second Annual Gay & Lesbian Film Series starts this week at Village 8 Theaters in Louisville. Remember to RSVP for the Kickoff Gala - admission is free! We hope you join us and producing sponsor G3 at the Mellwood Arts & Entertainment Center on Thursday! RSVP at http://eqfed.org/kyfairness/events/0609kickoff/details.tcl. This week's movie features running June 5-11 are "Ciao" and "Tru Loved." "Superb. A no-frills movie with a wonderful script," is what Out in Hollywood is saying about "Ciao." Directed by Yen Tan, "Ciao" tells the story of a man that dies unexpectedly and leaves behind two men: Jeff, his best friend and Andrea, an Italian he has been corresponding with online. Jeff informs Andrea of Mark's passing; Andrea writes back to express his shock and sympathies. On a whim, they continue their correspondence and what began as a tragedy that linked two strangers becomes a deeply realized friendship. Stewart Wade's "Tru Loved" is "An entertaining tolerance lesson targeted at teens," according to Variety. In this award winning film, sixteen-year-old Tru is uprooted by her lesbian moms from her comfortable gay-friendly and moved to a conservative community. Tru's only friend is a closeted football player, and even that friendship is jeopardized when she starts the school's first Gay-Straight Alliance Club. Get your tickets from Village 8 and check out all the films scheduled for this month's film series on the Village 8 website at http://www.village8.com/glfs/glfs_films.htm. KFA is proud to partner with Village 8 and the Letter newspaper to bring these films to Kentucky! See you at the movies, Your KFA Team

    The Second Annual Gay & Lesbian Film Series starts this week at Village 8 Theaters in Louisville.

    Remember to RSVP for the Kickoff Gala - admission is free! We hope you join us and producing sponsor G3 at the Mellwood Arts & Entertainment Center on Thursday!

    This week's movie features running June 5-11 are "Ciao" and "Tru Loved."

    “Superb. A no-frills movie with a wonderful script” is what Out in Hollywood is saying about “Ciao.”  Directed by Yen Tan, “Ciao” tells the story of a man that dies unexpectedly and leaves behind two men: Jeff, his best friend and Andrea, an Italian he has been corresponding with online. Jeff informs Andrea of Mark’s passing; Andrea writes back to express his shock and sympathies. On a whim, they continue their correspondence and what began as a tragedy that linked two strangers becomes a deeply realized friendship.

    Stewart Wade’s “Tru Loved” is "An entertaining tolerance lesson targeted at teens,” according to Variety.  In this award winning film, sixteen-year-old Tru is uprooted by her lesbian moms from her comfortable gay-friendly and moved to a conservative community. Tru’s only friend is a closeted football player, and even that friendship is jeopardized when she starts the school’s first Gay-Straight Alliance Club.

    Get your tickets from Village 8 and check out all the films scheduled for this month’s film series on the Village 8 website.

    KFA is proud to partner with Village 8 and the Letter newspaper to bring these films to Kentucky.

    See you at the movies,
    Your KFA Team

     

     ]]>         Statewide Candlelight Vigil http://eqfed.org/notice-description.tcl?newsletter_id=33507973 newsletter 2009-05-18 Kentucky Fairness Alliance info@kentuckyfairness.org Candles Across Our State As you may know, the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) has been working diligently to pass a statewide fairness bill through the Kentucky Legislature. If passed, the bill would bring equal rights to every citizen of KY, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Currently, 118 out of the 120 Kentucky counties provide no protection against discrimination for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. Those two counties currently with such protections are Fayette and Jefferson, plus the City of Covington in northern KY. We can be denied housing and access to public accommodations, such as stores and restaurants, based solely on our orientation and identity. We have been working to gain support for the fairness bill, but we need your help. KFA will be holding a vigil to bring awareness to this cause. Statewide Candlelight Vigil Sunday, June 28 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. (EST) The vigil will be held on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. We are looking for organizations or individuals who would be willing to host a vigil in their area. Thus far, we have organizations in five cities (Danville, Lexington, Louisville, Owensboro, & Richmond) that have agreed to organize the event in their areas. However, we are looking for more. Our goal is to have 15 simultaneous vigils throughout Kentucky. If you, or anyone in your area, are interested in hosting a vigil, please contact us as soon as possible at info@kentuckyfairness.org. By working together, it is our hope that we will bring awareness to our cause and will end discrimination in Kentucky. In fairness, Your KFA Team P.S. - Remember the Louisville Gay & Lesbian Film Festival and KFA's Kickoff Gala on June 4. RSVP at http://eqfed.org/kyfairness/events/0609kickoff/details.tcl. As you may know, the Kentucky Fairness Alliance (KFA) has been working diligently to pass a statewide fairness bill through the Kentucky Legislature.  If passed, the bill would bring equal rights to every citizen of KY, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.  Currently, 118 out of the 120 Kentucky counties provide no protection against discrimination for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community.  Those two counties currently with such protections are Fayette and Jefferson, plus the City of Covington in northern KY.  We can be denied housing and access to public accommodations, such as stores and restaurants, based solely on our orientation and identity.  We have been working to gain support for the fairness bill, but we need your help.

    KFA will be holding a vigil to bring awareness to this cause. 

    Statewide Candlelight Vigil
    Sunday, June 28
    8:00 to 9:00 p.m. (EST)

    The vigil will be held on the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.  We are looking for organizations or individuals who would be willing to host a vigil in their area.  Thus far, we have organizations in five cities (Danville, Lexington, Louisville, Owensboro, & Richmond) that have agreed to organize the event in their areas. However, we are looking for more.  Our goal is to have 15 simultaneous vigils throughout Kentucky.  If you, or anyone in your area, are interested in hosting a vigil, please contact us as soon as possible. 

    By working together, it is our hope that we will bring awareness to our cause and will end discrimination in Kentucky.

    In fairness,
    Your KFA Team

    P.S. - Remember the Louisville Gay & Lesbian Film Festival and KFA's Kickoff Gala on June 4.  RSVP online!

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