Out & Equal - Seattle

Out for Sustainability - Upcoming Event!

2009-11-10T20:15:00.000-08:00

2009-07-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

2009 Seattle Lesbian & Gay Film Festival
Calling all Employee LGBT Groups!
October 16 – 25

Advance planning is underway for the 2009 Seattle Lesbian & Gay Film Festival, to be held October 16 - 25. Three Dollar Bill Cinema, the nonprofit producer of the annual festival, is offering Employee LGBT Groups unique opportunities to participate as this year’s Featured Volunteers, giving your group a dynamic and rewarding volunteering experience.

Held annually in October since 1996, The Seattle Lesbian & Gay Film Festival has grown into the largest event of its kind in the Pacific Northwest, gaining industry and audience recognition for showcasing the latest in LGBT cinema, from major motion picture premieres to emerging talent. An important venue in the local Seattle film scene, the festival engages and entertains over 10,000 attendees.

Sign up by email before July 31, 2009:

lgbtgroups@threedollarbillcinema.org

You send us a brief email of interest with your contact information.

We’ll send you Employee LGBT Group Festival Announcementsand details regarding our Featured Volunteers program.

Three Dollar Bill Cinema enriches, strengthens, and connects diverse communities by supporting queer film and by producing the Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival and other events. For more information, visit www.threedollarbillcinema.org or call 206.323.4274.

Lifelong AIDS Alliance Text Campaign!

2009-07-02T13:13:00.000-07:00

Food should not be a luxury.

But with rising costs, increased demand and funding cuts, Chicken Soup Brigade (the food program of Lifelong AIDS Alliance) has reached its capacity to help. We have been forced to create waiting lists. And there are still people to feed.

You can help. Your $5 donation will give 2 meals to a hungry person today.

Help us keep people safe.

Until a vaccine is found, our best hope of fighting the local AIDS epidemic is through prevention and education.
You can help us keep people safe. Your $5 donation will produce 10 safer-sex kits which create HIV/AIDS awareness and prevent infections.

Use your cell phone to donate $5 to Lifelong AIDS Alliance:

Text LIFELONG to 90999.
Reply to the automated text message with YES.
That’s it! You just provided two meals with two texts!

Visit our website for more information or to donate online.

Thank you for helping us feed people in the greater Puget Sound area.

A one-time charge of $5 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Standard messaging rates and additional fees may apply. All charges are billed and payable to your mobile service provider. Proceeds benefit Lifelong AIDS Alliance and are collected by the MGF. Service is available on most carriers. You can unsubscribe at any time by texting "STOP" to 90999. For full terms, visit mgive.com/a.

Rfamily Cruise to Alaska - July 11-18

2009-06-23T14:54:00.000-07:00

Glamazon invites local ERG and Out & Equal Seattle members to the Rfamily Cruise aboard the NCL Star!

The ship leaves Seattle on Saturday, July 11th.

Information is available at: http://www.rfamilyvacations.com/index.php

Contact Carol Evans at carevans@amazon.com for more details!

Out & Equal Seattle and Fruits in Suits June Pride Social

2009-06-10T17:02:00.000-07:00

Come to the Out & Equal June Pride Social!

When: June 25th, 5:30-9pm
Where: Fetherston Gallery 818 Pike Street (Corner of Pike and Broadway)

Join Out & Equal Seattle, Amazon, Alaska Airlines, Microsoft, Starbucks and many more for the June Pride Month Social. It will be THE event of the year! The event is co-sponsored this year by Fruits in Suits, a great local networking organization.

An $8 cover includes your first drink, Hors d'Oeuvres, a DJ and door prizes. All remaining proceeds benefit the Trevor Project and Lambert House.

Can't wait to see you there!

Run with Pride - Seattle Frontrunners Event

2009-05-13T13:35:00.000-07:00

Hey there Out & Equal Seattle members, the Seattle Frontrunners are presenting Run with Pride at Seward Park coming up soon (6/14/09).

Check out the website at: http://www.seattlefrontrunners.org/displayContentAttachment/contentAttachment/504252/RWWP%202009%20flyer%20160%20dpi.pdf

More information is available at http://www.seattlefrontrunners.org/register

2009-04-16T10:48:00.000-07:00

Here's another event from the Fruits in Suits!

The event will be on 4/24/09 at the Featherston gallery from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, see the flyer below or visit their website for more details.www.puffinsproductions.com

GLBT News - 04-08-09

2009-04-08T16:16:00.001-07:00

(As provided by the Out & Equal Newsletter)

***

In the News

Vermont and Iowa to support marriage equality

In a historic move, the Vermont Legislature today overturned Gov. Jim Douglas’s veto of a bill, allowing LGBT couples to marry.

The decision makes Vermont the first state to support marriage equality – effective on Sept. 1 – through legislative action instead of a court ruling.

The decision comes days after the Iowa Supreme Court overturned a 1998 law banning LGBT couples to marry, calling the ban unconstitutional. The Supreme Court ruled that the 1998 law violated the equal protection clause in the state’s constitution, systematically making Iowa the third state in the country to legalize LGBT marriages.

Proponents expect challenges to the Iowa ruling, which would likely result in the issue resurfacing as a potential constitutional amendment. The constitutional amendment process takes three-steps: approval from two consecutive legislative sessions and then a public vote. At this point, the earliest an amendment could be on the ballot would be in 2012.

"These are incredible and historic decisions," says Out & Equal Workplace Advocate Executive Director Selisse Berry. "I applaud lawmakers for taking positions for progress and equality. This is a sign of change that will eventually be experienced in every state, with LGBT couples no longer treated as second-class citizens."

Vermont and Iowa are now the third and fourth states to allow marriage equality. Massachusetts and Connecticut are the others.

Sweeping federal hate crimes bill re-introduced in House

Michigan Representative John Conyers has introduced the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act in the House, the first federal law that would make it illegal to inflict harm on anyone based on disability, race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity.

If passed, it would be the first law that specifically includes protections for transgender people, wording that transgender advocates and the transgender community have sought for several years.

In Conyers’ blog, he says he is hopeful that the bill – which is similar to a bill vetoed by President Bush – will be passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama.

Out & Equal Executive Director Selisse Berry says: "Now is the time for positive changes, and the introduction of the proposed law is a sign that equality for everyone is in our near future."

Under the proposed law, federal authorities could assist in investigations and prosecution of hate crimes committed against LGBT people that resulted in serious injury or death.

The federal government could also lend its assistance to local authorities or take the lead in cases if local officials are unwilling or unable to prosecute the cases.

Lifelong AIDS Alliance - BACHELOR AUCTION (April 8, 09)

2009-04-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

BACHELOR AUCTION09

No cover!

Wednesday, April 8
Doors open at 8 PM

Julia’s Restaurant
300 Broadway East
Seattle, WA
(206) 334-0513

Join our host, performer Mark "Mom" Finley, at Julia’s Restaurant as we raise funds to benefit Lifelong AIDS Alliance.

Kick off your night when doors open at 8 PM with our welcome mixer featuring specialty cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Mix and mingle while celebrated guest DJ Kyler from C89.5 FM spins your favorite tracks.

We’re auctioning off 10 of Seattle’s hottest bachelors combined with complimentary date packages from your favorite local haunts. Take in the show and bid as our bachelors take the stage and give us their best. Underwear provided by Red Drawers.
Enjoy our intermission show with a surprise performance by Julia’s own Sean Paul and premium door prizes from our supporting sponsors.

For every $25 in food or beverage purchased, receive a complimentary ticket to Julia’s Le Faux female impersonation show!

General donation suggested at door. All proceeds go to Lifelong AIDS Alliance

Come join the party and enjoy the show to support Lifelong!

Fruits in Suits - April 3rd Monthly Mixer!

2009-04-02T10:39:00.000-07:00

Hey gang! Here's a great event to get you out of the house on Friday!

The event will be this Friday at the Featherston gallery from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, see the flyer below or visit their website for more details.

www.puffinsproductions.com

Expeditors Adds Protection for LGBT Employees

2008-12-04T10:40:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Pride Foundation...and Expeditors...

Via a Pride Foundation press release....

Pride Foundation has been asking Seattle, WA based Expeditors to update their Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policies to include sexual orientation. On November 19th Expeditors issued a release stating that the board of directors had unanimously voted to amend their EEO policy to include this change. Pride Foundation and Trillium Asset Management had presented our proposal to Expeditors' shareholders every year for the last three. This year the majority of shareholders agreed with our proposal. After the vote Pride Foundation contacted Expeditors board members, urging them to listen to shareholders and enact the policy. Expeditors employs over 12,000 people with offices throughout the country and 4 international centers. Pride Foundation is honored that we could use our investments to affect this change for equality.

More information at http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2008413398_expeditors20.html.

Out in Front Seattle Building Next Generation of LGBT Leaders

2008-12-02T12:04:00.000-08:00

Out in Front Seattle has announced a new leadership program the LGBT community in the greater Seattle area.

The pilot program starts in late February with about a dozen participants. According to the application, over five months, students will gain the essential skills, knowledge and abilities necessary to serve on non-profit boards and in staff positions at community nonprofits, represent LGBT community needs at local businesses, corporations and government agencies, or lead the community in other roles.

Apply today or learn more at http://docs.google.com/Doc?id=ddrwtxjx_2dcxm3d49.

Photos From the Marriage Equality Rally

2008-11-24T08:24:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of Equal Rights Washington...

For more photos, go to http://www.flickr.com/groups/erw/.

Out & Equal Seattle Holiday Happy Hour - Thursday, Dec. 11 at Purr

2008-11-23T20:14:00.000-08:00

Come celebrate the holidays with Out & Equal Seattle as we celebrate our final happy hour of 2008!

Out & Equal Seattle Holiday Happy Hour
Thursday, Dec. 11
5-8pm
Purr – 1518 11th Avenue (Capitol Hill)
Free and open to the public

In this season of giving, we’re trying to brighten the lives of the LGBT youth in our community. See Lambert House’s wish list below and bring an unwrapped gift if you can.

Lambert House Holiday Wish List

Gift cards

-Bus tickets: in increments of $.25, $.50, and $1.50: http://buypass.metrokc.gov/browse.cfm/2,60.html

-Gift Cards to Safeway, QFC, Walgreens, Office Depot, Costco, target, Subway, Gameworks, Malls-Movie ticket gift cards: Landmark, Regal, AMC Cinemas

Other holiday grab bag items

Nail polish

Small hand held video games

SocksSmall bottles of lotion

Chap Stick/ lip balm

Chocolate/candy

Movie gift certificates

Phone Calling Cards

CD walkmans & CDS

Disposable cameras

Hoodies, t-shirts (small to 3x)

Craft kitsBeading kits

Ornament painting kits

Journals

Slippers

Overnight bags

Totes

Bookbags

Makeup bags

Headphones

LH Online Wish List

Amazon.com wish list: http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/JEJ51U00K6S9

Appliances

Stove: must have 2 large burners, 2 ovens, no more than 40" wide, in new or perfect condition

Out & Equal Workplace Advocates November 2008 e-Newsletter

2008-11-23T19:41:00.000-08:00

Save the Date
The 2009 Out & Equal Workplace Summit is scheduled for October 6-9, at the beautiful Coronado Springs Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL. Please be watching for more information about sponsorship opportunities and registration.

In the News
We are pleased to announce one of our newest affiliates, Out & Equal Atlanta. They will be celebrating with a special kickoff event tonight, which will include a moment of silence for today’s Transgender Day of Remembrance, as well as food, entertainment and celebrity guest speakers. atlanta@outandequal.org

Out & Equal Philadelphia will host a first ever regional summit, on Saturday, November 22. The full day event will feature 2 keynote speakers and 9 workshop sessions. philadelphia@outandequal.org

Marriage Equality
Four things you can do to promote dialogue on this topic:
As a result of the recent elections, it is clear that Out & Equal still has more work to do to educate the general public about LGBT workplace issues. Anti-LGBT family propositions and ballot measures passed in California, Florida, Arizona, and Arkansas. Yet, we have made some progress: in 2000, only 39% of California voters supported full diversity and inclusion. In 2008, that number rose to 48%. While these trends bode well for the future, each one of us can begin today to start changing the hearts and minds of those who live and work with us.

As an executive, a diversity/human resource professional, and/or member of an Employee Resource Group (ERG), there are several things you can do to promote education and dialogue on LGBT marriage:

Talk about it! Hold an open forum to discuss Marriage Equality– Plan a forum in which members of the LGBT community and allies can share their thoughts and feelings on the importance of marriage. The event should be open to all employees and feature a strong facilitator who can establish a few basic ground rules prior to the discussion. The forum serves two purposes in that it allows employees to share their frustrations, and reinforces the personal relevance of LGBT marriage to community members, allies and other employees.

Support non-LGBT Employee Resource Groups – Election results highlighted tension between segments of the LGBT community and other minority groups. Your ERGs all have at least one thing in common: the pride in working for your employer. There are other ways in which you can make connections, and initiating dialogue can help bridge the real and perceived gaps. Things you can think about: Has your LGBT ERG assisted another ERG in their programs? Has your ERG co-sponsored an event with another ERG? If not, start a dialogue with other ERGs to see if there is a way you can assist in their challenges, and start to build allies and new partners.

Share your perspectives with others – Many people do not realize the real-life impact these laws have on their friends, family and colleagues. When appropriate, share your perspectives on LGBT marriage with other employees. Put a human face on the issue by explaining the personal challenges you face without full marriage equality. You can help them make the connection between abstract law and its effects on your life and the broader LGBT community.

Avoid making assumptions – It is important not to make assumptions about an entire company when even one employee, or a few, donate money toward an anti-LGBT cause. When determining a company’s record on LGBT issues, evaluate the company’s overall policies and actions. Individuals are free to support any cause they believe in, but that does not necessarily mean the entire company supports that cause. There are several companies that have progressive LGBT policies yet have been targeted due to actions taken by one or two employees or former employees.

MSNBC’s Keith Olbermann delivered a compelling and emotional commentary following the passing of Prop 8 in California. View the video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HpTBF6EfxY

Day of Remembrance Announcement
The Transgender Advisory Committee of Out & Equal Workplace Advocates urges all of our members and friends to support the Transgender Day of Remembrance this Thursday, November 20, 2008.

The Transgender Day of Remembrance was set aside to memorialize those who were killed due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice. Transgender individuals throughout the United States and around the world continue to be subjected to bigotry, hatred and violence. Sadly, this anti-transgender behavior has resulted in at least 28 deaths this year throughout the world and countless instances of harassment and discrimination.

Out & Equal asks that you remember and honor the lives of those who have died for merely living their lives as their true selves – and for the continued struggles of many of our transgender brothers and sisters, in and out of the workplace – by attending a remembrance event near you. A listing of these events can be found at:

http://www.transgenderdor.org/

Two Out & Equal Regional Affiliates will be hosting events to coincide with Transgender Day of Remembrance: Dallas-Fort Worth and Atlanta. For more information, email dfw@outandequal.org or atlanta@outandequal.org respectively.

Please note that not all of these events take place on November 20. Events will be taking place mid to late November.

Announcing LGBT CareerLink
LGBT CareerLink provides resources for faster, smarter online job networking for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) job seekers

In today’s challenging economic climate and competitive job market, HR professionals and job candidates want effective, timely ways to network. Now the leading LGBT workplace equality organization -- Out & Equal Workplace Advocates -- has launched http://www.LGBTCareerLink.com an online career center linking diversity-friendly companies with LGBT job seekers.

As unemployment reaches more than 7% nationwide, online networking methods are paramount to identify and secure gainful employment. Workplace equality advocates want to emphasize that even in challenging economic times, diversity and inclusion must be seen as a necessity, not a luxury.

Whether you’re seeking a job or looking for top talent, the site’s networking feature allows recruiters and the LGBT workforce to meet virtually across the nation and globally. Along with rich professional networking tools, LGBTCareerLink.com offers a jobs board featuring diversity-friendly employers and a career development resource center. In the style of Web 2.0, users are encouraged to create content themselves.

“CareerLink is the fastest and most effective way for LGBT candidates to find quality employment,” said Out & Equal Executive Director Selisse Berry. “Without networking, job hunters usually look for work in ways that are opposite to how most employers prefer to hire.”

Membership is free to LGBT and ally job seekers. For employers LGBTCareerLink.com is a fee-for-service recruiting channel with various pricing levels. Business partners can post up to five pages of branded recruiting materials, including multimedia features.

For LGBT Job Seekers
Forget the days of posting to big job boards and getting zero return. Research LGBT-friendly companies and get noticed by large, medium and small businesses that value workplace inclusion.
Review detailed profiles and network with LGBT-friendly companies locally, nationally and worldwide.
Join or start online networks tailored to your interest and needs.
Use sophisticated tools to profile yourself beyond the traditional resume post.
Upload samples of your portfolio, post comments to forums, and engage in informational interviews.
Interact with employment experts through web casts and pod casts.
Access timely news and articles affecting LGBT employees.
Find networking opportunities in your area.
For more information, email candidates@LGBTCareerLink.com

For Employers
Use highly targeted methods to fill your open positions with qualified candidates without processing thousands of resumes. LGBT CareerLink helps HR professionals meet and exceed corporate goals with an easy-to-use, one-stop career center.
Attract top talent and promote your company as an LGBT-friendly employer.
Web 2.0 tools allow for quick and direct interaction with candidates.
Create an online company profile and use state-of-the-art recruiting tools.
Stay informed about events, conferences, and other recruiting opportunities.For more information, email employers@LGBTCareerLink.com

GLBT Diversity News

2008-11-23T19:36:00.000-08:00

Olbermann: Gay marriage is a question of love
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27650743/
Finally tonight as promised, a Special Comment on the passage, last week, of Proposition Eight in California, which rescinded the right of same-sex couples to marry, and tilted the balance on this issue, from coast to coast.

Marriage proponents take Proposition 8 fight to Calif. high court
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/11/06/BA1313VJQH.DTL&type=politics&tsp=1
Marriage-rights groups are taking the fight against Proposition 8 to the state's Supreme Court, which in May granted same-sex couples the right to marry. "Proposition 8 is a very radical and dangerous change to the principles of the California Constitution. Never before has an existing fundamental right been taken away,"

Thousands march in support of equal marriage rights
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/16/us/16protest.html?bl&ex=1226984400&en=719e1c29c315aea6&ei=5087%0A
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/11/15/same.sex.marriage/index.html
Tens of thousands of supporters of equal marriage rights participated in dozens of rallies around the country Saturday. Speakers likened the events to being a new chapter of the Stonewall riots, which, beginning in 1969, helped usher in the modern gay-rights movement.

Seattle Rallies for Marriage Equality
http://election2008.advocate.com/2008/11/seattle-rallies.html
The massive protest rally and march for marriage equality in Seattle began Saturday morning with a moment of silence at 11 a.m. to observe the "extinguishment of our freedom to and Seattle mayor Greg Nickels told the crowd he declared November 15 "Marriage Equality Day in Seattle."

What It Felt Like to Be Equal
http://warner.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/11/13/dark-side-of-the-vote/
Married couples in California talk to blogger Judith Warner about having the equality rug pulled out from under them in the wake of the passage of the state's marriage ban

Marriage movement failed to reach out to gay, straight blacks
http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-oe-cannick8-2008nov08,0,3295255.story
The California marriage ban passed with the heavy support of minority voters, in part because the mainstream-marriage movement has failed to make its case to black and Latino gays, who face other economic and social justice issues, according to writer Jasmyne A. Cannick. Los Angeles Times

All Hands, Black and White, On Deck
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid66579.asp
The high number of African-Americans who voted to pass Proposition 8 may have surprised some people, but not the folks at the National Black Justice Coalition..NBJC's CEO offers some insights about the black-white divide and how to mend it going forward.

Mormon Church on defensive over Proposition 8 support
http://articles.latimes.com/2008/nov/17/nation/na-mormons17
The Mormon Church may have hurt its efforts to recruit new members -- and its image as being more tolerant of gays than some evangelical congregations -- after members poured an estimated $20 million into the campaign to pass the California marriage ban. "The backlash is going on all over the country," ...

A Fortune 500 Take on Prop. 8
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid66784.asp
Although thousands of individuals, organizations, and businesses donated to the Yes on 8 campaign, not one Fortune 500 company is among those names. But on the opposite side, the side of fairness and basic rights, you’ll find some of the nation’s most successful and powerful corporate players.

Prop 8 Aftermath: Focus on the Family May Have to Focus on Bankruptcy Court
http://hottopics.gay.com/2008/11/prop-8-aftermat.html
After donating $500,000 to the Vote Yes on Prop 8 campaign, ultra-conservative Focus on the Family (James Dobson’s cult) may be headed the way of the dinosaurs, which is really odd, as they don't believe in dinosaurs. With debts mounting due to cash shortages, Focus is having to lay off over 200 jobs which is around 20% of their workforce.

A Marriage Manifesto... Of Sorts - A gay man experiments with language, love and law - http://www.religiondispatches.org/blog/sexandgender/755/

Marriage bans approved in Florida, Arizona
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2008/11/04/20081104elect-propositions1104-ON.html
Voters in Florida and Arizona on Tuesday approved constitutional marriage bans.

Leaders say losses won't stop rights momentum
http://www.reuters.com/article/reutersEdge/idUSTRE4A599C20081106
Although the gay-rights movement suffered major losses in the passage of marriage bans in three states and an adoption ban in Arkansas, leaders believe the election of Barack Obama as president and changes in societal attitudes bode well for future efforts to boost LGBT civil rights.
Ark. votes to ban unmarried couples as foster, adoptive parents
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5j92e9g5RVPEgCyREmVOEb37CC7LAD949D6MG0
Arkansas voters on Tuesday approved a ballot measure that would impose one of the nation's few prohibitions on unmarried couples adopting or fostering children. The referendum, which was approved by about 57% of voters, was touted by the Arkansas Family Council as a way to fight against the "gay agenda."

Savage: Arkansas adoption ban could pose bigger LGBT threat than marriage losses
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/12/opinion/12savage.html?em
While Californians march and gay activists contemplate a national boycott of Utah — the Mormon Church largely bankrolled Proposition 8 — an even more ominous new law in Arkansas has drawn little notice.That state’s Proposed Initiative Act No. 1, approved by nearly 57 percent of voters last week, bans people who are “cohabitating outside a valid marriage” from serving as foster parents or adopting children.

Oregon town elects nation's first trans mayor
http://www.oregonlive.com/news/index.ssf/2008/11/post_9.html
Stu Rasmussen, who last week was elected mayor of the small town of Silverton, Ore., is the nation's first out transgender mayor, according to The Victory Fund.

Gay Marriages Begin in Connecticut
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/13/nyregion/13marriage.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
Out Connecticut state Rep. Beth Bye and her partner of seven years, Tracey Wilson, on Wednesday morning were among the first gay and lesbian couples to get married in Connecticut. "It's living proof that marriage equality is moving forward in this country,"

Ruling: Nepal's LGBT citizens are guaranteed equal rights
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-9597.html
LGBT people in Nepal are entitled under its constitution to equal rights, according to a landmark decision by the nation's Supreme Court. The decision follows up a summary ruling in December that ordered the government to revise anti-gay laws and put forth equal-rights measures, including a proposed marriage bill.

Britain pays millions to gay military veterans who were victims of discrimination
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7716802.stm
Personnel unfairly dismissed from the forces because of their homosexuality have been paid compensation totalling £4m, the MoD has confirmed. A total of 65 individuals have received payments which averaged £61,500.

Bollywood takes a careful step out of the closet
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/film/bollywood/article5139508.ece
A new Bollywood film in which two major male stars pretend to be gay to get the girl could be an important step in raising gay issues in India, where homosexuality is illegal and viewed by many as a topic that should not be discussed.

Report: HIV/AIDS spreading fast in Russia
http://www.365gay.com/news/report-hivaids-spreading-fast-in-russia/
(Moscow) Russia’s anti-AIDS coordinator says the number of registered HIV cases is growing 10 percent a year despite increased government funding. He told reporters Friday that the actual number of people with HIV was likely higher than 1 million.

Anti-gay violence growing problem in Amsterdam
http://www.365gay.com/news/anti-gay-violence-growing-problem-in-amsterdam/
(Amsterdam, Netherlands) Amsterdam faces an ingrained problem of violence against gay men, despite its reputation as a haven of tolerance, according to a new study released.

Ruby-Sachs: Lamenting the end of Chicago’s LGBT school proposal
http://www.365gay.com/blog/ruby-sachs-lamenting-the-end-of-chicagos-lgbt-school-proposal/
A few weeks ago, I wrote a piece supporting the establishment of the Pride Campus in Chicago. I’ve been following its development with interest and over the past few days it has become clear that the Pride Campus - retooled to have an anti-bullying focus and then renamed – will not be opening its doors anytime soon.

Vatican's Anti-Gay Witch-Hunt Continues
http://www.rainbownetwork.com/UserPortal/Article/Detail.aspx?ID=23001&sid=5
The Vatican has announced the "psychological screening" of all new applicants for the priesthood, in a bid to weed out men who are deemed to be psychologically flawed.

Kidman, Theron to play trans married couple
http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/marc_malkin/b67959_nicole_kidman_charlize_therons_movie.html
The two have signed up to star in the movie adaptation of David Ebershoff’s best-selling novel from 2000, The Danish Girl, their reps confirm. Kidman will play real-life artist Einar Wegener, the world’s first postop male transsexual. Theron will take on the role of Wegener’s artist wife, Gerda.

Wanda Sykes Comes Out at Prop. 8 Rally
http://www.365gay.com/news/wanda-sykes-comes-out-at-prop-8-rally/
Comedian and actress Wanda Sykes officially came out announcing that she’s gay, and that she legally married her wife in California on Oct. 25.

Prince, the Artist Formerly Known as Sane, Bashes Gays in the Name of God
http://hottopics.gay.com/2008/11/prince-the-arti.html
Prince, the man who made millions and millions off of androgyny and gay-friendly sexuality, has found God, and in that, found a new wellspring of intolerance for gay people.

eHarmony agrees to provide same-sex matches
http://www.gay.com/news/roundups/package.html?sernum=8715
Online dating service eHarmony is adding another personality trait to its 29 dimensions of computability. The California-based company will begin providing same-sex matches under as part of a settlement with New Jersey's Civil Rights Division.

Associated Press Explores Experiences of Gay Seniors
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gbmzVvRgA33htx6YKPcbkfvQzTywD93JPUI00
The Associated Press drew attention to the estimated 2.5 million gay seniors in America and the challenges they face in an October 4 article titled, "Gay elders' distinctive challenges get a closer look."

'Gotta Give 'Em Hope': The Legacy Of Harvey Milk
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=96865519
The first openly gay man to be elected to public office, Milk left a legacy of determined enfranchisement that lives on in the more than 600 openly gay or lesbian elected officials serving now in North America. But especially among younger elected officials, memories of Milk are beginning to fade.

Seattle Protest Against Prop 8 on Saturday

2008-11-11T10:18:00.000-08:00

Election night was a bitter-sweet celebration. We came together to witness the first black man who will become our president, yet watched in sadness as Florida, Arizona, Arkansas, and California all voted down equal rights for all citizens.This is not a 4 state issue. This is an issue of equality across America. Stand up and make your voice heard. Visit the main http://www.jointheimpact.com/ to learn more.

Rally on SATURDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2008 at noon.

Volunteer Park pre-festival at 10:30AM

BRING YOUR SIGNS, Rainbow flags, American Flags (traditionally American flags carried on poles upside down is a signal of distress.)

Facebook group at http://www.new.facebook.com/group.php?gid=35445293690&ref=mf.

Join the Impact Washington site - http://jointheimpact.wetpaint.com/page/Washington.

Mad? Give ERW $8 a Month to Win Marriage Equality

2008-11-08T12:27:00.000-08:00

For $8 a month, you can support Equal Rights Washington’s efforts to win marriage equality in Washington state.

https://secure.ga4.org/01/not_in_my_state?preview=f

$8. Feel free to do more if you can.

ERW is partnering with four other states that will be pushing for marriage in the next couple of years.

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Prop 8: NOT IN OUR STATE

Please help us build today for equality tomorrow.

An incredible election in Washington has allowed us to continue moving full-steam ahead with our Marriage Equality plans. Thank your for your hard work! As we saw from the devastating loss in California, our campaign to educate voters on the importance of marriage equality today needs to start today. Can you spare at least $8 a month until we achieve full marriage equality?

As soon as we pass marriage equality in the legislature, it will go directly to a referendum. To win this referendum, we know that the majority of voters must support marriage equality. This is not a traditional campaign: we must educate voters today as if the election were tomorrow.

We'll be launching several tools over the next few months to help you communicate personal stories about the importance of marriage equality to all Washingtonians. We need $10,000 immediately to finish the development of these tools. Please donate today!

https://secure.ga4.org/01/not_in_my_state?preview=f

Utah is the New Coors

2008-11-07T15:22:00.000-08:00

Pass it on...

(Via Slog and Dan Savage)

http://slog.thestranger.com/2008/11/the_villains_in_the_piece

The Mormon church put up four out of every five dollars spent to ban same-sex marriage in California. More than 18,000 legally married couples in California were forcibly divorced on Tuesday thanks to the members of a church founded by a polygamist and a pedophile with more than a dozen wives. Since all Mormons-in-good-standing must tithe 10% of their earnings to their church, some part of any dollar you spend in a Mormon-owned business—and they’re almost all Mormon-owned businesses in Utah—flows toward an anti-gay church that wages anti-gay political campaigns. Ski Colorado, Washington state, and British Columbia. Don’t ski Utah.

Protests Planned Over Passage of Prop. 8

2008-11-07T09:38:00.000-08:00

Towleroad is keeping track of the protests planned this weekend over the passage of Prop. 8 in California.

http://www.towleroad.com/2008/11/more-protests-p.html

And the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center has other ways you can help (especially for those not in CA) - http://www.invalidateprop8.com/.

GLBT Diversity News

2008-10-28T10:19:00.000-07:00

Activist, blogger sound warning on Proposition 8
http://www.pamshouseblend.com/showDiary.do;jsessionid=873174873BFAB43C106F03806B2BE004?diaryId=7673
If the vote were taken today on California's Proposition 8, the short era of equal marriage rights would likely be over, according to a video clip featuring Matt Coles, director of the ACLU's LGBT Project. But there's still time for supporters of marriage rights to help Californians make their case to voters. Blogger Pam Spaulding writes: "If the right to marry can stand in California, it will pave the way for marriage in more states. But if we lose in California, the tide will turn against us."

Ellen buys $100,000 TV time to support gay marriage
http://www.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idUSTRE49G7JO20081018
Comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, who married actress Portia de Rossi in August, has spent $100,000 on TV airtime to make a personal appeal to California voters to oppose a constitutional ban on gay marriage on the Nov. 4 ballot. In the spot, DeGeneres alleges supporters of Proposition 8 are "twisting the truth, and they're trying to scare you."

Apple opposes Prop 8
http://washingtonblade.com/thelatest/thelatest.cfm?blog_id=21975
Apple Inc. has issued a statement opposition Proposition 8, the ballot meaure that, if passed, would eliminate the right to marry for gay couples in California, according to a release on the company's website. Apple has also donated $100,000 to the No on 8 effort.

So, "No on Prop 8" is a Mac
http://election2008.advocate.com/2008/10/so-no-on-prop-8.html
We've encountered a cute parody of the popular "Hello, I'm a Mac," "And I'm a PC" commercials for Apple.

Proposition 8 backers threaten to "out" businesses
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hZmLBrL36NObNyMR0ghXN7vB5hYwD940GN1G0
ProtectMarriage.com, the group leading the charge to pass Proposition 8, sent certified letters to 35 companies that have donated to Equality California, saying that if they did not make an equitable donation to both sides of the issue, they would be exposed as being "in opposition to traditional marriage." Equality California Executive Director Geoffrey Kors described the campaign as, "[T]ruly an outrageous attempt to extort people."

Poll: Fla. marriage ban could hinge on black turnout
http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/state/article868615.ece
Florida's Amendment 2, a ballot issue that would restrict marriage rights to heterosexual couples, could turn on a high turnout among black voters, according to a poll showing that that 69% of black voters support a constitutional amendment to restrict marriage rights.

Is Google violating its own ad policy?
http://www.bilerico.com/2008/10/protectmarriagecom_ads_violate_google_ad.php
When blogger Bil Browning found ads supporting Proposition 8, the California ballot issue that would restrict marriage rights, on his blog, he wondered how they got there. He investigated and found that it's possible that the ads, which are served by Google, violate the Web giant's own advertising guidelines.

Rash of LGBT Assaults Hits Washington Campus
http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid64280.asp
Police at Washington State University are investigating three recent attacks against LGBT students on or close to campus, reports KXLY. WSU administrators send an e-mail to students and faculty yesterday, recognizing that the attackers may be targeting LGBT students and offering escorts for anyone uncomfortable walking alone across campus.

Out MSNBC host making presence felt in cable talk circles
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/21/arts/television/21madd.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
Out MSNBC host Rachel Maddow's month-old show already is attracting twice the number of viewers as the predecessor in its 9 p.m. time slot, and on many nights is beating CNN's Larry King in the key 25-to-54 demographic. The overnight success of Maddow, a former AIDS activist and Air America radio host, goes against the grain of cable news, where it can take several years to build an audience, according to this article.

At home with Maddow, her partner and her favorite things
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/19/magazine/19wwln-domains-t.html?scp=1&sq=rachel%20maddow&st=cse
Rachel Maddow, host of left-leaning chat shows on Air America Radio and MSNBC, both named “The Rachel Maddow Show”, spends downtime in an 1865 house in western Massachusetts.

Gays win marriage rights in Conn. high-court ruling
http://www.courant.com/news/politics/hcu-gaymarriage-1010,0,7812756.story
The Connecticut Supreme Court, citing the state constitution's equal protection clause, has ruled 4-3 in favor of granting equal marriage rights to same-sex couples. The decision in Kerrigan v. the State Commissioner of Public Health was filed by eight couples who were turned down for marriage licenses in 2004 and did not believe the state's 2005 civil-union law granted them equal rights to married couples.

Transgender study underscores gender gap in pay
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/business/384025_genderpay20.html
A study of transgender employees offers new insight into the gap between what women and men earn. Researchers discovered that the salaries of women who changed gender subsequently increased slightly, while pay decreased for workers who switched from male to female.

Baldwin: An "inclusive" ENDA may soon be possible
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/charlotte-robinson/obama-mccain-differ-great_b_135451.html
In an interview, Rep. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., shares her thoughts on the upcoming elections, and how the results of the presidential as well as congressional races will affect issues important to LGBT people. Baldwin says a Democratic majority in both houses of Congress and a Democratic president could mean passage of an "inclusive" Employee Non-Discrimination Act, passage of The Matthew Shepard Law, expanding the federal definition of hate crimes and a repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act.

Next president should be global leader on LGBT issues, groups say
http://www.advocate.com/issue_story_ektid62881.asp
Activists are hopeful the next U.S. president will improve upon the Bush White House's lack of interest in LGBT human rights and will use the office as a bully pulpit to "to show moral leadership" in championing LGBT rights abroad -- and at home. "Saying something about [gay rights] would be an incredibly powerful message," said Scott Long, head of the LGBT program at Human Rights Watch.

A hate crime remembered
http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_10671319
Although the 1998 hate-crime killing of Wyoming college student Matthew Shepard has helped build awareness of the issue, action is still needed to enact bias-crimes laws in 19 states, including Wyoming, and to lobby Congress to add sexual orientation and gender identity to existing federal hate crimes, according to The Denver Post. "Even though 10 years have passed since Shepard was left for dead, lashed to a split-rail fence in near-freezing weather, the horror of the crime has not diminished and neither should the resolve to make sure crimes like it don't happen again," the Post's editorial board writes.

"Laramie Project" creators assess impact of Shepard's death http://www.newsweek.com/id/163027?from=rss
When the creators of "The Laramie Project," a play about the hate-crime death of college student Matthew Shepard, returned to the Wyoming town a decade later, they found that, while much has improved in terms of the level of gay acceptance there, much work remains to be done, both within that community and around the state.

Campaign seeks to end teens' use of "That's so gay" catchphrase
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/08/business/media/08adco.html?adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1224876801-3kEbhQMUJ0UDKZQ+NXCnKg
Actress Hilary Duff and comedian Wanda Sykes are among the spokespeople for a new PSA campaign coordinated by the Ad Council to address the issue of bullying and harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender teenagers. The campaign, which is a pro bono effort by Arnold Worldwide, New York, for the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, features the tagline: "When you say, 'That's so gay,' do you realize what you say? Knock it off."

American Family Association ends McDonald's boycott after executive resigns from gay business group
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-fri-mcdonalds-boycott-oct10,0,2009019.story
The American Family Association has called off a five-month boycott of Oak Brook-based McDonald's Corp. after a company executive left the board of a gay and lesbian business association. The conservative Christian group had been calling for Richard Ellis, formerly McDonald's vice president of U.S. communications, to step down from the board of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

McDonald's exec: AFA boycott not a factor in his quitting gay group
http://www.echelonmagazine.com/index.php?id=453
The American Family Association's claim of "victory" with its boycott of McDonald's over the fast-food chain's LGBT policies is a misrepresentation of the facts, according to this article. AFA said it ended the boycott after McDonald's executive Richard Ellis stepped down from the board of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, and the company allegedly agreed not to replace him.

Chicago may get 'gay-friendly' high school
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/10/13/gay.friendly.school/index.html?eref=ib_topstories
(CNN) -- Public school officials in Chicago, Illinois, are recommending approval of a "gay-friendly" high school because harassment and violence are causing gay students to skip class and drop out at alarming rates. "It is not going to be a 'gay high school,' but yes, in a way, it is meant to target kids who feel they have been victims of bullying for their sexual orientation or perceived orientation".

School bus driver charged in homophobic attack on student
http://www.365gay.com/news/school-bus-driver-charged-in-homophobic-attack-on-student/
An elementary school bus driver has been charged with leading a homophobic attack on a 10-year old student passenger.The Kankakee Sheriff’s Police Department said that the boy was taunted by the driver who then encouraged other students to chase and beat the child.

Parents, doctors now more attuned to trans youth issues
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/magazine/20081020_Teens_in_transition.html
Although the number of children with gender-identity disorders seems to be increasing, physicians and mental health professionals advocate taking a cautious approach to gender reassignment for minors, according to this article. For many youths, hitting puberty is a time when they are able to come out to their families about their gender and sexuality issues.

As Connecticut goes, so goes the Garden State?
http://www.app.com/article/20081011/NEWS0301/810110305/1001/NEWS
With nearby Connecticut now offer equal marriage rights, thanks to last week's state Supreme Court ruling, marriage activists believe it's just a matter of time before New Jersey also changes its civil-union system for same-sex couples into full marriage rights. "This decision can't help but have enormous persuasive impact on New Jersey," said Steve Goldstein, chairman of Garden State Equality.

Palin: "Yes" on federal marriage amendment; Biden: "No" on Prop. 8
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jUUZ7NJlIM4Azi7MafXRythJutNgD93UJBU81
Democratic vice-presidential candidate Sen. Joe Biden, in this clip from "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," declares his opposition to California's constitutional marriage ban. "I think it's regressive. I think it's unfair, and so I'd vote no," said Biden, who also opposes a federal marriage ban.

Obama's AIDS policy includes guarantee of health coverage
http://www.advocate.com/exclusive_detail_ektid63934.asp
Sen. Barack Obama has developed a comprehensive AIDS policy that reportedly prohibits denying health coverage based on pre-existing conditions in the U.S. and takes a "science-based" approach in advocating the use of condoms to halt the epidemic around the world.

Aetna members gain ability to search gay medical group's provider list
http://www.365gay.com/news/aetna-first-health-insurer-to-link-to-gay-medical-directory/
The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association has reached an agreement with Aetna to connect its online directory of more than 1,200 health care providers with the health insurer's DocFind database of providers. Aetna, which also is major sponsor of GLMA's annual conference this week in Seattle, is the first health insurer to link with the group's database

Malaysia Clamps Down On Lesbian And Boyish Behaviour
http://www.365gay.com/news/imams-issue-edict-against-tomboys/
(Kuala Lumpur) Malaysia’s main body of Islamic clerics has issued an edict banning ‘tomboys’ in the Muslim-majority country, ruling that girls who act like boys violate the tenets of Islam, an official said Friday.The National Fatwa Council forbade the practice of girls behaving or dressing like boys during a meeting Thursday in northern Malaysia.

Challenge to Indian tribe gay marriage
http://www.365gay.com/news/challenge-to-indian-tribe-gay-marriage/
(Portland, Oregon) A move by an Oregon Native American tribe to legalize same-sex marriage is being challenged by a tribal member. The Coquille tribal council approved allowing two people, where at least one is a member of the tribe, to marry regardless of gender and to recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions performed in areas where they are legal.

Bahrain Politicians To Deport Gay Foreigners http://www.rainbownetwork.com/UserPortal/Article/Detail.aspx?ID=22778&sid=5
A campaign in Bahrain has begun to "stamp out" gay people in the country. Yesterday, Bahrain MPs demanded the Interior Ministry stop granting residence permits to gay foreigners, and to deport those already in the country.

Indian Gov’t Calls Homosexuality ‘A Sickness’
http://www.365gay.com/news/indian-govt-calls-homosexuality-a-sickness/
(Delhi) The High Court in Delhi has issued a harshly worded rebuke to the Indian government for calling homosexuality a disease that cannot be tolerated.The government assertion came during a court case challenging India’s sodomy law. The case was filed by LGBT rights groups and AIDS outreach organizations.

African AIDS leader wins $5 million prize
http://www.365gay.com/news/african-aids-leader-wins-5-million-prize/
(London) He took an AIDS test publicly despite a deep stigma in Africa against the disease. He pressed to cut the prevalence of mothers passing the HIV virus onto their babies. He fought to make more anti-retroviral drugs available.

Report: Gay hate crimes triple in Scotland
http://www.365gay.com/news/report-gay-hate-crimes-triple-in-scotland/
(Edinburgh, Scotland) An examination of police complaints across Scotland reveals a tripling of hate crimes against members of the LGBT community, The Daily Record newspaper reported Monday.The paper said that the situation may be worse than what it uncovered. A spokesperson for one police force admitted to The Record that it does not keep records on crimes based on the victim’s sexuality.

Study: Why marry?
http://www.365gay.com/news/study-why-marry/
(Boston, Massachusetts) A newly released study of same-sex couples who have married in the 13-months since gay weddings became legal in Massachusetts is providing insight into the reasons for tying the knot.

Study: Black gay couples fall behind earnings of straight couples
http://www.365gay.com/news/study-black-gay-couples-fall-behind-earnings-of-straight-couples/
As Californians prepare to vote on a proposed constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage in the state a new study shows a wide gap between the incomes of same-sex African American couples and straight black couples.

Stonewall 'Get Over It' T-Shirts Go On Sale
http://www.rainbownetwork.com/UserPortal/Article/Detail.aspx?ID=22724&sid=5
You’ve seen them on the celebs and you've it seen it on billboards. Now the Stonewall ‘Some people are gay. Get over it!’ t-shirts are being sold to the public for the first time. Raising money for Stonewall’s Education for All campaign, the T-shirts are available through the Stonewall website for £10 plus postage and packing.

Stonewall Launches New LGB Helpline
http://www.rainbownetwork.com/UserPortal/Article/Detail.aspx?ID=21270&sid=5
Stonewall has launched a freephone number to respond to questions callers have around gay, lesbian and bisexual issues. The new service, supported by the Big Lottery Fund, responds to a huge growth in demand for gay-specific advice and information about the status of lesbian and gay people. The phone service - 08000 50 20 20 - will be available from Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 5.30pm.

Election Night Party At Cafe Metropolitan!

2008-10-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

Join Equal Rights Washington to watch the results roll in on election night.

Tuesday, Nov. 4 at 6pm

Cafe Metropolitan

Cost is only $10 at the door and includes free food!

Take Our Survey....Please!

2008-10-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

In order to serve you better, we invite you to participate in our online survey to help determine the types of events and services that are important to you.

The educational and networking programs that we plan are intended to share best practices, to discuss important LGBT workplace issues and to provide an effective way engage individual employees, employee resource groups (ERGs) and human resources professionals beyond the annual Workplace Summit.

So tell Out & Equal - at a local and national level - what you need!

Now take the dang survey!

Join Out & Equal Seattle For End-of-Life Planning Workshop

2008-10-23T14:19:00.000-07:00

Out & Equal Seattle invites you to attend this year's final Professional/Personal Development Workshop. Joy Pothan from Evergreen-Washelli will be providing us with a presentation on end-of-life planning.

What if the person you have spent your life with died yesterday? Where would you be today?

Where would their other family members be? Who will make decisions for you and your loved one after your deaths? What will your grave marker read? Will it have the names of you and your spouse, just like every other long-time married couple represented in the cemetery?

Your relationship is worthy of being remembered. Our community faces unique challenges that the rest of the general population does not. Given our current legal issues, a will and domestic partnership may not be enough.

Are you prepared? Come find out. Join us on Wednesday, Nov. 12, from 6-8pm.. To bring a little levity to the subject, the workshop will be held in the balcony of The Chapel, located on 1600, Melrose Ave., Seattle. The workshop is open to all and free of charge. We hope you can join us.

ARE WE LOSING CALIFORNIA? - Special Out & Equal Town Call

2008-10-22T20:09:00.000-07:00

Are We Losing California?

In California, we are fighting the most critical ballot measure in history to protect the right to marry, but this race is still too close to call. Can we still win it? YES – but only with your help!

Join us for an urgent Town Call this week to hear the latest from the front lines in California:

Friday, October 24
Noon PDT / 1 PM MDT / 2 PM CDT / 3 PM EDT
Please Dial: 1-800-756-3565 Conference ID: Out & Equal

Hear from national leaders Neil Giuliani of GLAAD and Toni Broaddus of Equality Federation about WHY this fight is so important to LGBT equality, WHAT the chances are for winning, and HOW you can help. There will be time for Q&A, so get your questions answered about the largest campaign effort for LGBT equality in the history of the LGBT movement!
RSVP for Out & Equal Special Town Call