New York Mayor's Race: Conduct Unbecoming - Just Bash Chris!

 

 

 

"Members of the audience called her a “liar,” an opponent relentlessly attacked her, and the moderator at one point had to beg the scornful crowd to let her speak."

-New York Times (April 21, 2013)

Little did New Yorkers realize that Speaker Christine Quinn was such an evil person.

Forget her stellar record as Speaker of the New York City Council. Ignore the fact that she presented seven balance budgets on time. Put aside that she has fought for the rights of others even when it wasn't politically popular. Don't remember the times when she travel to poor neighborhoods and stood with the mothers of gun victims often without press and sometimes only seven or eight people standing with her. And, for God sakes, don't remember how day in and day out she was there and is still there for the victims of Hurricane Sandy.

Quinn's male opponents have crossed the line in their conduct with personality attacks, distorting her record and whipping up their supporters in a frenzy of 'hate Chris'. The well known mild mannered Alex Baldwin launch a vicious attack on her as he is supporting Public Advocate Bill de Blasio. Really, Alex, of all the evil in the world Christine Quinn deserves that kind of tirade?

They, with delight, proclaim that she is tough, cusses and plays a hard games of politics. In fact, if they described a male candidate with those attributes he would be call a decisive leader. Let's face it. These guys are having a hard time dealing with the fact that they might lose to open lesbian who would be the first woman Mayor of New York City.

Christine Quinn is an unapologetic tough daughter of Ireland who gets things done. She is tough. She does cuss. She doesn't put up with nonsense. She doesn't like delays when Hurricane Sandy victims aren't being helped. She has no patience for homophobia from anyone. She is a feminist who wears that badge with pride.

Christine Quinn is a strong powerful leader and is the perfect person to take over the City of New York.

Public Advocate Bill de Blasio and her Democratic opponents are good men. They have stood for good things. This kind of conduct is beneath them and they know better. It is simply conduct unbecoming.

More important, while these candidates are strong supporters of LGBT rights, these kind of angry attacks gives permission to the homophobic and misogynist crazies out there. Of course you have every right to challenge her on the issues. Quinn can handle it. She needs to handle it.

Hopefully you can stand for more then you are not Christine Quinn!  However don't tolerate the increasing anger, disruption and hatred that is taking place. Speak out against it. Tell Mr. Baldwin and others that their anger is misdirected.

For those of us fortunate enough to attend the Gay and Lesbian Victory Fund brunch this past Sunday, we heard speaker after speaker talk about the difference having one of our own in office makes in protecting the right of LGBT Americans really struck home. Congressman Sean Maloney gave an eloquent speech how it has affected his colleagues on the floor of the House.

When it came Quinn's turn she was powerful, moving and a leader. She talked about young LGBT Americans and our obligations to them. She talked about her vision for the city. All I could think of as she was speaking was what an excellent tough and visionary Mayor she would make for the Big Apple.

Go get them Christine

Michelangelo Signorile: Boy Scouts Once Again Has It Totally Wrong

 

 

 

Michelangelo Signorile writing on 'Huffington Post's Gay Voices' hits the nail on the head with the offensive proposed new policy from the national Boy Scouts. They want to allow open LGBT youth to participate in the scouting experience however not allow any Scout leaders to be openly LGBT Americans.

Of course the message is a simple one: You kids are innocent but once they get older they can't be trusted with young children. Really? You expect us to buy into that compromise?

Here is Signorile's column:

The latest decision by the Boy Scouts of America, proposing to end its ban on gay scouts but not its ban on gay and lesbian scoutmasters and den mothers, is at once ridiculous and blatantly anti-gay. Sorry, but there's just no middle ground on bigotry. The idea that you can end discrimination against some -- and actually admit that it is discrimination -- but not against others is truly breathless in its illogic. The BSA actually says in its new proposal that "no youth may be denied membership in the Boy Scouts of America on the basis of sexual orientation or preference alone," but that the organization "will maintain the current membership policy for all adult leaders."

So a boy can come out as gay, be a great scout and be accepted by the organization but not even think about being a scoutmaster as an adult? And how can a boy who comes out as gay, or is simply known to be gay because of his other associations and friendships, feel that he is not stigmatized by the BSA when the organization is still discriminating against gay adults?

The BSA's twisted reasoning is that gay adults can't be trusted around boys, because they may be sexually attracted to them and may make sexual advances on them. It's never explained why, using that logic, a lesbian can't be a den mother, and of course it feeds into the nastiest lies and stereotypes about gays, equating them with pedophiles. That continued stigmatization will fuel homophobia and bullying against gay scouts regardless of the fact that the organization now says that they won't be banned. That the BSA used its recent survey of members as a cover, claiming that a majority of its members wanted it this way, only heightens the ugliness of the message.

What I wrote last July, when the BSA decided to keep the ban on both gay scouts and gay scoutmasters, still holds: The BSA is sending a dangerous message to young people across America, telling them to keep gays away because they are not like the rest of us.

The Boy Scouts had a chance, again, to redeem itself, but it has blown it big-time. As I also noted last July, the BSA must be considered an enemy of civil rights. Any parents in good conscience must continue to realize what they are a party to by enrolling their kids in an organization whose policies would help drive hostility against a minority group. And any corporation or organization that associates with the Boy Scouts must be made to realize the ugliness that it is party to, as well.

Marriage Equality Update: The Sweep Is International Now

 

 

 

Advocates in New Zealand

After sweeping changes in the United States, the marriage equality movement has gained momentum around the globe. Here are the latest updates:

-Uruguay has passed full marriage equality.

-New Zealand beats Australia and passes full marriage equality. Over 1,000 Aussie couples are heading to its rival nation to marriage.

-Next week should see the final vote and marriage equality become the law of the land in France. (Also that includes adoption rights).

-Columbia is voting on marriage equality this week.

<-The Irish Constitutional Convention passed a resolution setting up a referendum in Ireland on marriage equality where over 70% of the people currently support it.!

-In Illinois, the efforts are focused on the final vote in the State House in an efforts to get the remaining four or five votes needed. An all out effort is taking place to convince legislators to get on the marriage equality train.

-Delaware has taken the first moves to pass marriage equality and the Governor is strongly backing its passage.

-Rhode Island will hold its first hearings in the Senate side after passage by the House. There could be a vote in the State Senate within the month. The Governor has promised to sign it.

-In New Jersey, a new Rutgers/ Eagleton Institute Poll shows an amazing 62% of the voters of the Garden State supporting marriage equality. Are you listening Governor Christie? -

The map below is from Freedom to Marry.

Marriage Equality: The Storm Has Yet To Hit.....

 

 

 

Hate Crime Victim In France 

While there is little doubt in my mind of ultimate victory in our struggle for marriage equality, there is no question that as we used to say back home, 'it is gonna get real ugly here'. The closer that LGBT Americans come to gaining their full freedom, the behavior of our opponents will become more disturbing, violent and unstable.

The outrageous lies and rhetoric has reached a fever pitch as the radical and religious right desperately attempt to slow down the momentum.

LGBT Americans should expect a rise in hate crimes as that passionate out-of-control fear takes hold among those afraid of change. In the history of previous movements, as they got closer to the goals of freedom we have seen such frightening unstable behavior by individuals driven by the careless rhetoric of organizations and leaders.

One only has to look to the intense and divisive debate in France. Hate crimes have reached a record level in the last weeks with a rise of at least 200%. Right-wing members of Parliament has promised 'civil war' and 'violent confrontation' if the marriage equality legislation passes and is signed into law.

Here in America, the anger is rising with each new victory for marriage equality. Leaders of the opposition issue one outrageous warning after another of dire consequences if there is marriage equality The anger grows and the threats are increasing. LGBT Americans should expect an increase in hate crimes.

Our response must be measured, non-violent (both in words and deeds) and assured of our own journey. Their anger must not incite us to sink to their levels. Our words must be filled with love and inclusiveness and not bitterness and anger.

In this process, LGBT Americans can show their fellow citizens a new way that builds a country based on love and not hate and anger.

Hell's Kitchen Journal: Meeting Edie

 

 

 

Over the years, I have met Prime Ministers, Presidents, major movie stars and a series of brave and courageous people who names are unknown. Never have I been more excited than the other night when I met our beloved Edie Windsor. She did not disappoint her many fans.

The New York Center held its 30th Anniversary dinner on Saturday night (April 13) and unlike most similar evenings it was magical. They had chosen to honor two remarkable human beings in Edie Windsor and Terrence Meck. The Center knew that they had a special moment for the community and they did not disappoint the well over 700 in the room. They kept the evening brief, informative and inspiring. If only organizations all could follow their model.

That is where I met Edie.

Let's face it, the LGBT community is so damn lucky to have her as face of this epic battle for full equality. She is smart, poised, funny and looks like everyone's mother. Edie is gracious in her time with those who she has inspired and passionate about her journey and case before the Supreme Court.

Like Rosa Parks who refused to give up her seat on the bus in Montgomery, Alabama in 1955, Edie Windsor has shown the same kind of courage. When her beloved wife, Thea Spyer, passed away in 2009 after over 40 years of being together, Edie was totally heart broken. In the mist of her grief, the government said that their relationship was not a real one and taxed her $363,000 on the estate. No straight married couple would have had to pay this 'LGBT Tax'!

Instead of becoming a victim, she sued her government and fought back. Through court after court Edie's powerful story of discrimination won and with each victory her legend has grown around the world. The entire world was watching when her case reached the Supreme Court. The power of one individual determined to be free creating change was proven with Edie.

At the dinner, I approached her with caution but suddenly she was not surrounded by people. I slowly went up and introduced myself and expressed my deep admiration and gratitude. She made my night by reaching up and hugging me and saying 'thank you David, without you I would have never done it." Her gracious and kindness in the moment not only made my year but suddenly made my journey have value.

That is Edie. She constantly gives joy and hope to others. She has honored Thea by honoring us with her fight, determination and love of justice. Thank you Edie. Thank you from all of us

(Thanks to Joe Jervis of JoeMyGod for the photograph)

John Aravosis's Exclusive Interview With Daughter Of Handcuffed Man Drag From Husband's Bedside

 

 

Roger and Allen

One of the most appalling and shocking examples of discrimination against LGBT Americans took place in a Missouri hospital this week. When the family of a sick man showed up they demanded that his husband of five years be removed from the room. The man's husband had the 'power of attorney' but nevertheless was ordered to leave. He refused and they handcuffed him and forcibly removed him from the hospital.

Journalist John Aravosis of AmericaBlog obtained an exclusive interview with the daughter, Amanda Brown,  of the husband, Roger Gorley, who was handcuffed and dragged from the room. Here is her description of the incident.

I just spoke with Amanda Brown, 26, the daughter of Roger Gorley, who was handcuffed and dragged away from the bed of his husband, Allen Mansell, at the Research Medical Center in Lee’s Summit, Missouri on Tuesday.

Amanda, who was in the hospital room when her father, Roger, was taken away by the police, directly contradicts the hospital’s claim that Roger needed to be removed because he was “disruptive.”

She also accuses the police of wearing gloves, and worrying that her father had AIDS, simply because he was gay.

Hospital says gay husband was “disruptive and belligerent”

“This was an issue of disruptive and belligerent behavior by the visitor that affected patient care,” the hospital alleged in a statement released Thursday afternoon, after the story had gained national attention. In addition to intense media scrutiny and anger in the gay community, federal officials are now also investigating.

The incident happened Tuesday around 4pm, central time.

According to Amanda, her father Roger had every reason to be disruptive at his husband’s hospital bedside – his authority as Allen’s spouse, and thus the person in charge of Allen’s medical decisions, were Allen unable to make them himself, was being challenged by Allen’s brother, Lee, in the presence of a nurse.

Roger has Allen’s medical power of attorney, so there should have been no question as to who was legally responsible for care decisions.

Nurse allegedly knew the parties, yet did nothing to confirm Roger had medical power of attorney

What’s more, the nurse, according to daughter Amanda, knew Roger and Allen. Amanda say the nurse must have known that Roger was Allen’s designated representative, as they had been to the hospital many times before, and had been treated by the same nurse.

“The nurse knew who my father was, she knew who Allen was,” Amanda told me by phone. “She had treated Allen before, and dad had been there before, dad had signed off on medical treatments before. She should have had all the information on file.”

Amanda says that the nurse had her father removed because of the loud disagreement her father was having with his partner’s brother, Lee, who had arrived at the hospital room at the same time as her father.

Rather than intervene and inform the brother that Roger was in fact the designated representative of his gay partner, the nurse had Roger removed. This, in spite of Allen reportedly saying from his hospital bed that he wanted his husband to stay in the room with him.

“Allen said he wanted dad in the room,” Amanda told me. “He said ‘I want him here’” as the nurse was asking Roger to leave.

When I asked Amanda if the nurse was possibly not aware of what the fight was about, Amanda responded: “She knew what was going on.”

CONTINUE WITH ENTIRE INTERVIEW BY CLICKING HERE.......

Missouri Arrests Gay Man At Hospital For Refusing To Leave Partner's Bedside

 

 

 

Talk About Equality is reporting today that Roger Gorley was placed in handcuffs, arrested and lead from the hospital room of his ill partner.

The site reports:

This week, Roger Gorley was visiting his husband’s bedside at Research Medical Center in Kansas City. When the ill man’s family demanded Roger be ejected from the room, Roger refused. He and his husband took part in a civil union ceremony 5 years ago and they also holds Power of Attorney for one another.

When the nurse was informed of this, she didn’t even bother going to look for the paperwork, she merely called security and had Roger removed from his partner’s bedside in handcuffs. Furthermore, the hospital has now taken out a restraining order keeping him from visiting his husband in the hospital.

The hospital released a statement which insinuates Roger was somehow putting people in danger or perhaps even reacting violently to being asked to leave his husband’s room.

“We believe involving the family is an important part of the patient care process. And, the patient’s needs are always our first priority. When anyone becomes disruptive to providing the necessary patient care, we involve our security team to help calm the situation and to protect our patients and staff. If the situation continues to escalate, we have no choice but to request police assistance.”

In 2010 President Obama mandated that any hospital that receives federal funding such as Medicare or Medicaid must allow visitation privileges for same-sex partners.

Who Is The Most Powerful Gay In America?

 

 

 

OUT Magazine has picked their fifty most powerful LGBT Americans. The list is heavy on media and entertainment figures. This is the magazines annual "Power List'. As with any list, this is sure to generate much discussion about who is on, who is left off and constituencies under-represented.

In addition, these individuals are powerful in the general sense and not for their contributions to the LGBT community. Many on the list have been missing in action in the battle for full equality.

Here are their top ten:

1. Tim Cook (CE0, Apple)

2. Ellen Degeneres (Entertainer)

3. Ryan Murphy (Writer/Director/Producer)

4. Rachel Maddow (MSNBC Commentator)

5. Anderson Cooper (CNN Journalist/ Talk Show Host)

6. Nate Silver (New York Times Columnist)

7. Peter Thiel (Venture Capitalist)

8. Shepard Smith (Fox News Anchor)

9. Tammy Baldwin (United States Senator)

10. Frank Ocean (Musician)

SEE THE REST OF THE LIST HERE.....

VIDEO: Thousands Protest Russian LGBT Policies At President Putin's Amsterdam Visit

 

 

 

Russian President Putin was greeted by thousand of demonstrators on his arrival in Amsterdam. The protest was because of his oppressive policies against LGBT Russians. A proposed new law would ban 'homosexual propaganda'. In addition, violence against the LGBT community in Russia has been widespread. Many cities in the former Soviet Union have banned LGBT Pride Marches.

What Are The Best And Worst States For Marriage Equality?

 

 

The Williams Institute is one of the best 'think tanks' for LGBT issues in the world. They have just released a new study on the degree of support for marriage equality in every state. Here are the results from their latest survey:

- Support for marriage equality has increased in every single state.

-In twelve states, the support for marriage equality is at or above 50%. -Another eight states will pass the 50% mark by the end of 2014.

-In the last eight years, every state has increased support for marriage equality by an average of 13.6%.

-Alaska, Arizona, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota are currently within five percentage points of majority support.

-There is a tie for the lowest level of support for marriage equality between Louisiana and Arkansas with only 31% of the people supporting it. Rounding out the bottom five are Alabama (32%), West Virgnia (32%) and Tennessee (32%)

-Among Southern states the highest support can be found in Florida (42%) and Virginia (43%).

-The top five states for marriage equality are Massachusetts (57%), Connecticut (57%), Vermont (54%), Hawaii (54%) and Oregon (54%).

-The report points out that:

Finally, there are 10 states that have previously passed constitutional amendments to not introduce same-sex marriages that now have a majority or are within percentage points of a majority in favor same-sex mar- riage { Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Montana, Nevada, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. These states may be the future political are- nas where existing constitutional amendments may be repealed in order to perform marriages for same-sex couples in those states.