Cuba and Russia Have Homosexuals!

Arrests in Moscow

I found it so interesting that in 1 week, both Cuba and Russia had gay pride events, with very different results. While here in the U.S., gay pride parades have become cliche and downright boring, marching in your finest drag can still get you arrested in some places.

Take Russia. Moscow banned a recently planned gay pride parade, and when people began gathering anyway, riot police moved in, broke it up and arrested people. No surprise, I suppose, given the former Communist country's record on human rights. Guess they'll find a way to spin this.

Contrast that with what happened in still-Communist Cuba, where the country held it's first-ever gay rights event. Granted, the government approves everything there or it doesn't happen--but that's a huge step from 2008, when a gay rights rally was banned. It wasn't a full-on parade with leather boys and all, but hey--baby steps! And the event was led by Raul Castro's daughter Mariela, so I guess that's a good thing. She's already known for being a gay rights advocate.

Interesting contrasts and comparisons. And it shows the world that we're not going to be silent, no matter where we live.

Support from Mariela Castro in Havana

Cuba and Russia Have Homosexuals!

Arrests in Moscow

I found it so interesting that in 1 week, both Cuba and Russia had gay pride events, with very different results. While here in the U.S., gay pride parades have become cliche and downright boring, marching in your finest drag can still get you arrested in some places.

Take Russia. Moscow banned a recently planned gay pride parade, and when people began gathering anyway, riot police moved in, broke it up and arrested people. No surprise, I suppose, given the former Communist country's record on human rights. Guess they'll find a way to spin this.

Contrast that with what happened in still-Communist Cuba, where the country held it's first-ever gay rights event. Granted, the government approves everything there or it doesn't happen--but that's a huge step from 2008, when a gay rights rally was banned. It wasn't a full-on parade with leather boys and all, but hey--baby steps! And the event was led by Raul Castro's daughter Mariela, so I guess that's a good thing. She's already known for being a gay rights advocate.

Interesting contrasts and comparisons. And it shows the world that we're not going to be silent, no matter where we live.

Support from Mariela Castro in Havana

Show Rick Warren the Love: Send Him Doughnuts for Gay Rights!

I couldn't resist! Some brilliant sister has encouraged anyone fed up with Pastor Rick Warren's "friendship" with gays to make a statement--with doughnuts! You may recall in his recent interview that he bragged about how he has always treated gays with respect, even greeting protesters at his Saddleback Church with water and doughnuts.

Water and doughnuts. How quaint. Don't you know doughnuts pack on the pounds?! See--Warren is trying to ruin our gay muscled physiques! It's a conspiracy!

Well, now we can return the favor. Just purchase a Dunkin' Donuts gift card and send it to our friend, Rick. Be sure to personalize it with a message about gay rights and even upload a pic of you and your partner. It's easy!

My card was polite, since my mama raised me right. It simply said: "Mr. Warren, you have lot to learn about life, love and people. Enjoy the doughnuts." (The site wouldn't let me use the word "queers" in place of "people." More discrimination!)

And I uploaded this sexy pic at left of two guys kissing! That'll work Ricky's nerves!

Sure, it cost $14.92 total--but that's a small price to pay for the opportunity to gently harass someone who greatly deserves it--and much more!

If the above link doesn't work, go directly to Dunkin' Donuts here.

Show Rick Warren the Love: Send Him Doughnuts for Gay Rights!

I couldn't resist! Some brilliant sister has encouraged anyone fed up with Pastor Rick Warren's "friendship" with gays to make a statement--with doughnuts! You may recall in his recent interview that he bragged about how he has always treated gays with respect, even greeting protesters at his Saddleback Church with water and doughnuts.

Water and doughnuts. How quaint. Don't you know doughnuts pack on the pounds?! See--Warren is trying to ruin our gay muscled physiques! It's a conspiracy!

Well, now we can return the favor. Just purchase a Dunkin' Donuts gift card and send it to our friend, Rick. Be sure to personalize it with a message about gay rights and even upload a pic of you and your partner. It's easy!

My card was polite, since my mama raised me right. It simply said: "Mr. Warren, you have lot to learn about life, love and people. Enjoy the doughnuts." (The site wouldn't let me use the word "queers" in place of "people." More discrimination!)

And I uploaded this sexy pic at left of two guys kissing! That'll work Ricky's nerves!

Sure, it cost $14.92 total--but that's a small price to pay for the opportunity to gently harass someone who greatly deserves it--and much more!

If the above link doesn't work, go directly to Dunkin' Donuts here.

Ecuador: The New Gay Travel Destination (I'm thinking of moving there myself)

Well, maybe not actually moving to Ecuador (I can hardly get my partner to out of state much less out of country!), but given all the ruckus over Rick Warren leading prayer during Obama's inauguration, it's nice to entertain these daydreams.

Why is Ecuador so great for gays? Back in September, the country's new Constitution guaranteed civil unions and other protections! That's right, this small country on the Pacific coast of South America (home to the Galapagos Islands) has done what the big ol' freedom-loving' U.S. can't seem to accomplish.

But it isn't just words on paper, not for Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa. In the wake of the recent beating death in New York City of Jose Osvaldo Suchuzhanay (a Ecuadorean immigrant), Correa said:

"We will fight together ... to forever uproot these aberrations of certain maladjusted [individuals], uproot them from the face of the earth, from humanity: Xenophobia, homophobia and all kinds of discrimination, all kinds of violence."

(Suchuzhanay, incidentally, was not gay but his American attackers apparently mistook he and his brother for a gay couple.)

Imagine an American president saying similar words. Yeah, we'll just have to imagine (are you listening, Obama?) because our present government can't even sign the recent United Nations Gay Rights Resolution.

So Ecuador is looking better and better. And if I were this woman below, I'd be kissing Correa, too!

Ecuador: The New Gay Travel Destination (I'm thinking of moving there myself)

Well, maybe not actually moving to Ecuador (I can hardly get my partner to out of state much less out of country!), but given all the ruckus over Rick Warren leading prayer during Obama's inauguration, it's nice to entertain these daydreams.

Why is Ecuador so great for gays? Back in September, the country's new Constitution guaranteed civil unions and other protections! That's right, this small country on the Pacific coast of South America (home to the Galapagos Islands) has done what the big ol' freedom-loving' U.S. can't seem to accomplish.

But it isn't just words on paper, not for Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa. In the wake of the recent beating death in New York City of Jose Osvaldo Suchuzhanay (a Ecuadorean immigrant), Correa said:

"We will fight together ... to forever uproot these aberrations of certain maladjusted [individuals], uproot them from the face of the earth, from humanity: Xenophobia, homophobia and all kinds of discrimination, all kinds of violence."

(Suchuzhanay, incidentally, was not gay but his American attackers apparently mistook he and his brother for a gay couple.)

Imagine an American president saying similar words. Yeah, we'll just have to imagine (are you listening, Obama?) because our present government can't even sign the recent United Nations Gay Rights Resolution.

So Ecuador is looking better and better. And if I were this woman below, I'd be kissing Correa, too!

Rick Warren to Lead Prayer at Inauguration: For the Record, I Don't Care

So evangelical superstar Rick Warren is Obama's pick to lead the invocation during the Inauguration. Big deal. What did you expect? Rev. Jeremiah Wright? A pagan priestess? No prayer at all? Obama was elected president of the entire country, not just a small minority of gays, liberals or whomever. Like it or not, American is still a majority Christian country, and so the presidents needs to pick someone who will appeal to the widest audience possible. I don't have to like Rev. Warren in order to understand the relative wisdom of his selection.

What bothers me more are headlines saying, "Gay Leaders Furious With Obama" because he picked Warren, who openly supported Prop 8 in California. Sorry, but shocked I am not. What mainstream Christian pastor out there supports gay marriage? My former pastor does, but then, he ain't in the mainstream, trust me. This is a country in which the Episcopal church, generally known to be "liberal" in Christian circles, is splitting over gay issues.

But these "gay leaders": They don't speak for me. They totally dropped the ball on Prop 8 and the response that followed, urging us all to cool our heels and work with the system. Obama never was our Savior and never will be, so I don't look to him to heal all my wounds. Obama IS now the system--get it? We need to stop looking to politicians and take care of ourselves.

Besides, how important is this anyway?

Rick Warren to Lead Prayer at Inauguration: For the Record, I Don't Care

So evangelical superstar Rick Warren is Obama's pick to lead the invocation during the Inauguration. Big deal. What did you expect? Rev. Jeremiah Wright? A pagan priestess? No prayer at all? Obama was elected president of the entire country, not just a small minority of gays, liberals or whomever. Like it or not, American is still a majority Christian country, and so the presidents needs to pick someone who will appeal to the widest audience possible. I don't have to like Rev. Warren in order to understand the relative wisdom of his selection.

What bothers me more are headlines saying, "Gay Leaders Furious With Obama" because he picked Warren, who openly supported Prop 8 in California. Sorry, but shocked I am not. What mainstream Christian pastor out there supports gay marriage? My former pastor does, but then, he ain't in the mainstream, trust me. This is a country in which the Episcopal church, generally known to be "liberal" in Christian circles, is splitting over gay issues.

But these "gay leaders": They don't speak for me. They totally dropped the ball on Prop 8 and the response that followed, urging us all to cool our heels and work with the system. Obama never was our Savior and never will be, so I don't look to him to heal all my wounds. Obama IS now the system--get it? We need to stop looking to politicians and take care of ourselves.

Besides, how important is this anyway?

Iowa and New Jersey Join Gay Marriage Debate

The issue of gay marriage doesn't appear to be fading any time soon!

Iowa justices are hearing a gay marriage case on whether the state's 10-year-old law defining marriage as“only “between a male and female” violates the Iowa Constitution’s guarantees of equal treatment and due process.

And in New Jersey, a state commission has recommended moving beyond civil unions to full marriage for gay couples.

Originally found these over at Dave's Wicked Gay Blog.

On one hand, if us queers keep challenging this in as many states as possible, eventually the conservatives will run out of money to fight us, their churches and foundations will go bankrupt and they'll have to throw in the towel--and we'll win! Not exactly a resounding victory but victory nonetheless.

Iowa and New Jersey Join Gay Marriage Debate

The issue of gay marriage doesn't appear to be fading any time soon!

Iowa justices are hearing a gay marriage case on whether the state's 10-year-old law defining marriage as“only “between a male and female” violates the Iowa Constitution’s guarantees of equal treatment and due process.

And in New Jersey, a state commission has recommended moving beyond civil unions to full marriage for gay couples.

Originally found these over at Dave's Wicked Gay Blog.

On one hand, if us queers keep challenging this in as many states as possible, eventually the conservatives will run out of money to fight us, their churches and foundations will go bankrupt and they'll have to throw in the towel--and we'll win! Not exactly a resounding victory but victory nonetheless.

"Prop 8: The Musical"

See more Jack Black videos at Funny or Die

A funny and theatrical look at Prop 8 and our current economic woes, by the same guy who brought us "Hairspray" and "South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut." It neatly sums up the shock over Prop 8's passage and what might convince the conservatives that it was a mistake. All very tongue-in-cheek.

It also features celebs such as Neil Patrick Harris, Jack Black, Margaret Cho, John C. Reilly and others.

"Prop 8: The Musical"

See more Jack Black videos at Funny or Die

A funny and theatrical look at Prop 8 and our current economic woes, by the same guy who brought us "Hairspray" and "South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut." It neatly sums up the shock over Prop 8's passage and what might convince the conservatives that it was a mistake. All very tongue-in-cheek.

It also features celebs such as Neil Patrick Harris, Jack Black, Margaret Cho, John C. Reilly and others.

Marriage Equality for Gays: Where Does Your State Stand?

Post these helpful maps on your fridge! They show where gay marriage is currently permitted or banned, and which states have some other form of recognition on the books.

The first shows where marriages, civil unions or other domestic partnerships are honored. Looks like Iowa is the next battleground for marriage.
The second shows those states with anti-gay constitutional amendments or anti-gay laws.


And the last shows those states where, back in 1967, interracial marriage was against the law. Interesting comparison.
Find more info at Freedom to Marry.

Marriage Equality for Gays: Where Does Your State Stand?

Post these helpful maps on your fridge! They show where gay marriage is currently permitted or banned, and which states have some other form of recognition on the books.

The first shows where marriages, civil unions or other domestic partnerships are honored. Looks like Iowa is the next battleground for marriage.
The second shows those states with anti-gay constitutional amendments or anti-gay laws.


And the last shows those states where, back in 1967, interracial marriage was against the law. Interesting comparison.
Find more info at Freedom to Marry.

Send a Postcard, Flick a Switch and More for Equality

I just mailed my own postcard for gay equality to President-elect Barack Obama, asking him to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act and the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy of gays in the armed forces. Civil Rights Front is asking everyone to join Project Postcard in support of equality for the LGBT community. Check the site for more info--and you can even post a photo of you and your postcard if you like.

There's even more! Blue For Equality is asking everyone to display a blue light in your porch, window or storefront in support of gay equality. The site includes a national map so you can see how many people in your own area have agreed to shine the light. California activists are hoping to light up several state city halls as a sign of support.

There are even more ways to express your opinion and support at Join the Impact.

Send a Postcard, Flick a Switch and More for Equality

I just mailed my own postcard for gay equality to President-elect Barack Obama, asking him to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act and the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy of gays in the armed forces. Civil Rights Front is asking everyone to join Project Postcard in support of equality for the LGBT community. Check the site for more info--and you can even post a photo of you and your postcard if you like.

There's even more! Blue For Equality is asking everyone to display a blue light in your porch, window or storefront in support of gay equality. The site includes a national map so you can see how many people in your own area have agreed to shine the light. California activists are hoping to light up several state city halls as a sign of support.

There are even more ways to express your opinion and support at Join the Impact.

Anti-Gay Bigots in Florida Get the Smackdown Over Adoption

I just love "activist judges," to borrow a phrase from the conservatives. A 31-year-old law banning adoption by gay couples or individuals in Florida has been overturned!

If people want to adopt and they meet the requirements, they should be allowed to provide a loving home. Does anyone ask what heterosexuals do in their bedrooms? Is that a qualification for being a parent?

Oh sure, the other side will appeal--but this sure is getting interesting!

Anti-Gay Bigots in Florida Get the Smackdown Over Adoption

I just love "activist judges," to borrow a phrase from the conservatives. A 31-year-old law banning adoption by gay couples or individuals in Florida has been overturned!

If people want to adopt and they meet the requirements, they should be allowed to provide a loving home. Does anyone ask what heterosexuals do in their bedrooms? Is that a qualification for being a parent?

Oh sure, the other side will appeal--but this sure is getting interesting!

Hell on Earth for Gays: Burundi

Not that it's on your must-see list (like Utah), but if you think California or whichever state has now outlawed gay marriage is bad, try the war-torn African nation of Burundi. It outlawed the death penalty but also criminalized homosexuality which, according to one report, used to be tolerated. What--are gays suddenly running amok?

Sure, Burundi is far away, but let's not get complacent people!

And for those who don't think gays have suffered much, consider this report about why Britain decriminalized homosexuality back in the 1950s:

"The law's function is to preserve public order and decency, to protect the citizen from what is offensive or injurious, and to provide sufficient safeguards against exploitation and corruption of others. Not, in our view, the function of the law to intervene in the private life of citizens, or to seek to enforce any particular pattern of behaviour."

I can't even imagine living my life like a criminal--and don't ever want to. So on Thanksgiving, let's be thankful!

Hell on Earth for Gays: Burundi

Not that it's on your must-see list (like Utah), but if you think California or whichever state has now outlawed gay marriage is bad, try the war-torn African nation of Burundi. It outlawed the death penalty but also criminalized homosexuality which, according to one report, used to be tolerated. What--are gays suddenly running amok?

Sure, Burundi is far away, but let's not get complacent people!

And for those who don't think gays have suffered much, consider this report about why Britain decriminalized homosexuality back in the 1950s:

"The law's function is to preserve public order and decency, to protect the citizen from what is offensive or injurious, and to provide sufficient safeguards against exploitation and corruption of others. Not, in our view, the function of the law to intervene in the private life of citizens, or to seek to enforce any particular pattern of behaviour."

I can't even imagine living my life like a criminal--and don't ever want to. So on Thanksgiving, let's be thankful!