The Bilerico Project

Ask Dictionary.com to Correct the Definition of Marriage

Joe Mirabella — Thu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 -0500

More than 7,000 people have signed Mike Raven's Change.org petition urging Dictionary.com to correct its definition of the word "marriage" to be more inclusive of gay and lesbian couples.

Raven, an MFA student in creative writing who lives in New Hampshire, said that he started his campaign after North Carolina passed a constitutional amendment banning gay and lesbian couples from getting married.

"I started this campaign, in part, from my love and fascination with words; and most of all, from the love I have for my twin sister Ashley, who is gay," Mike explained, "I decided that if this whole argument comes down to an intangible definition, then it's time for that definition to be corrected."

Dictionary.com sees nearly 50 million visitors a month, with millions of words looked up each day. When visitors look up "marriage," they find two separate definitions, one for heterosexual couples and one for gay and lesbian couples.

"There is only one kind of marriage, and that's one between two loving adults," Raven said. "Regardless of gender, marriage only needs one definition."

It Could Be a F--king Trap!

Bil Browning — Thu, 24 May 2012 09:00:00 -0500

I have no idea who Skweezy Jibbs is, but he's got a very important warning for "THA GAYS." Yes, Obama supports same-sex marriage now, but what if it's a trap?!?

Indy's Tea Party Mayor Supports LGBT Benefits

Bil Browning — Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 -0500

"He understands it could help attract talent to the city. Many of our larger employers do offer those benefits, so if the council passes the resolution extending benefits it's something he'd take a look at."

-- Marc Lotter, spokesman for Indianapolis' Republican mayor, Greg Ballard, about a recently introduced proposal to provide domestic partner benefits to city employees. Ballard was the first of the Tea Party candidates to sweep an incumbent out of office. John Gregg and Mike Pence, the Democrat and Republican running for Indiana governor, have both announced their support of a constitutional amendment that would not only ban same-sex marriage but also take away all domestic partner benefits in the state.

Did My Marriage Cause Obama's Evolution?

Steven Cheslik-DeMeyer — Wed, 23 May 2012 17:30:00 -0500

We so wanted our marriage not to be a political event - impossible to avoid, we know, but we aspired none the less - so it was almost comical on our honeymoon cruise in the Mediterranean to read in the "USA Times" (the 4-page news digest they tucked in our cabin door on the ship every morning) that C's home state of North Carolina voted by a large margin to extra-double-duty outlaw and ban gay marriage (I don't know which is the bigger sin: bigotry or redundancy) and then a day or two later that President Obama came out in favor of same-sex marriage. Big week for gay marriage.

I had been so disgusted and to be honest bored with Obama's gay marriage dilemma that I expected to just roll my eyes when, at of course politically the perfect moment, he finally completed his evolution. But instead I was quite moved. I mean, seriously, the fucking president. I know, it's marriage, and I have all kinds of trepidation about marriage as the flagship issue of our movement. But I came of age politically in the Reagan 80s and lived through Clinton and god-help-us Bush, and now the president of the United States says that he thinks gay people should be able to marry each other.

That's massive.

And then there's North Carolina. Of course at our wedding there was a big contingent of North Carolinians, many of them politically conservative, but most of whom expressed their dismay about Amendment One and did what they could to persuade their friends to vote against it. They came with open hearts to celebrate our marriage, to welcome me into their family, and to join mine with theirs. Being from a traditional background, they know what marriage means.

Continue reading "Did My Marriage Cause Obama's Evolution? "...

Newt Gingrich & Cory Booker: Dragged Into A Conversation They Can't Hold

Terrance Heath — Wed, 23 May 2012 16:30:00 -0500

This strange political season gets stranger by the day. The things I’m hearing and seeing from Newt Gingrich and Cory Booker today reminded me of a song from one of the last (and, in my opinion, underrated) albums by Culture Club; my favorite band from my 80′s youth. The lyric that comes to mind is from the band’s 1984 single, “Mistake No. 3,” when Boy George sings of people getting “dragged into a conversation they can’t hold.”

It’s been 28 years, and I still can’t figure out what that song’s about. But, it’s not hard to figure out that, despite coming at Mitt Romney’s Bain Capital history from opposite sides, Newt Gingrich and Booker let themselves get dragged into conversations they can’t hold.

Continue reading "Newt Gingrich & Cory Booker: Dragged Into A Conversation They Can't Hold"...

Richard Noble Nearing End of His Walk Across America

Karen Ocamb — Wed, 23 May 2012 15:30:00 -0500

This moving video was produced by Ann Sappho. She writes: "On June 9, 2012 I'm going to be at the finish line when Richard Noble walks across it. Being a DJ, I wrote and asked him what song he would like to hear as he crossed the finish line. His answer - please blend the song "Amazing" by One EskimO with Hillary Clinton's LGBT speech at the UN. This is the result of that conversation with him."

See Richard's 2,700-mile journey - the people he's met, the proclamations of support he's elicited, the joys and troubles he's overcome at his website Walk Across America.

Summer Bilerico Internships Available

Bil Browning — Wed, 23 May 2012 14:30:00 -0500

We're currently accepting applications for interns to assist with running the site and learn the ropes of online publishing and marketing. We're seeking a couple of brave souls who'd like to learn about communications and marketing.

The details are after the jump if you're interested.

Continue reading "Summer Bilerico Internships Available"...

Gatsby Goes Glam

James Holmes — Wed, 23 May 2012 13:30:00 -0500

When I read over a year ago that Baz Luhrmann was doing a 3D remake of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, I was a mix of emotions.

First, I love Baz Luhrmann - at least what I have seen. I'll admit to skipping Australia, but from the reviews, I was not alone (feel free to convince me to give it a try). But Romeo + Juliet and Moulin Rouge! are still two of the most beautiful movies I have every seen. The visuals, the acting, the writing, and the music - all spot on and mesmerizing.

Second, I have read and reread The Great Gatsby more than any other book (sorry Harry Potter) since I first read it in 6th grade. I didn't understand half the references then, but I fell in love.

Third, can Gatsby be effectively translated to 3D? I tend to fall into Roger Ebert's school of thought on 3D films. Mostly, they give me a headache and serve as not much more than a gimmick. The one exception in my experience was Avatar, but it's epic size and James Cameron's mastery of whatever he tries (and the fact that he invented the technology used) made it seem necessary. But Gatsby? I mean, the story is big, but epic? Can Luhrmann pull off a James Cameron? The trailer gives me some hope.

Check out the first look after the jump. Will he do the book justice? Can the 20s roar in 3D? I've already decided it will be worth an over priced ticket. What about you?

Continue reading "Gatsby Goes Glam"...

What the Bain Argument Is Really About

Terrance Heath — Wed, 23 May 2012 12:30:00 -0500

The 2012 presidential election may go down as one of the strangest political seasons in recent memory, for the simple reason that the influence of the financial sector in politics, policy and the economy has caused Republicans to sound like Democrats and Democrat to sound like Republicans -- usually with confounding results.

When Republicans sound like Democrats, like Newt Gingrich attacking Mitt Romney’s record at Bain Capital, they tend to start arguments they can’t win. When Democrats start sounding like Republicans, like Cory Booker defending Bain Capital, they tend forfeit arguments they could win. That’s because, in both cases, the politicians are arguing about the wrong things, in order to avoid the real argument -- the one America needs to have, and Americans need to win; the argument over what kind of economy we will have going forward.

Continue reading "What the Bain Argument Is Really About"...

NAACP's Ben Jealous Talks About Org's Marriage Equality Vote

Karen Ocamb — Wed, 23 May 2012 11:15:57 -0500

NAACP President Ben Jealous was on Rachel Maddow's show Monday night talking about the historic vote the full NAACP board took over the weekend endorsing marriage rights for same sex couples. For him, it's personal.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

But the reaction from Religious Right African Americans was swift. Here is an excerpt from two antigay black religious conservatives issues in a press release May 22.

Continue reading "NAACP's Ben Jealous Talks About Org's Marriage Equality Vote"...

Anderson Cooper: 'I Think You're Dreadful'

Bil Browning — Wed, 23 May 2012 10:45:00 -0500

During an episode of Anderson Cooper's talk-fest he interviewed Sarah Burge, the woman in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the most plastic surgeries. After the woman says she's encouraging her daughter to take up pole dancing and undergo her own cosmetic procedures, Cooper tells her she's "dreadful" and says he has nothing left to say to her.

Johnson & Johnson Partners with PFLAG

Ed Team — Wed, 23 May 2012 10:30:00 -0500

"As a Corporation that is committed to the health and care for all people, the Johnson & Johnson Family of Consumer Companies is focused on continuing to uphold diversity and equality through a range of efforts externally as well as within our own organization. By partnering with PFLAG, we are helping to further their very important work to end bullying and create safer schools for all children."

-- Scott Creighton, Global Vice President of Johnson & Johnson's Marketing Excellence Group, about the megacorp's partnership with PFLAG and Walgreens to raise a minimum of $200K and up to $300K for the org's Cultivating Respect, Safe Schools for All initiative.

White House LGBT Pride Reception: I'm on the List

Bil Browning — Wed, 23 May 2012 10:00:00 -0500

Yesterday I was honored to discover that I've been invited to the White House on June 15th to celebrate LGBT Pride Month with President Obama. Last year I was lucky enough to be Jerame's +1 at the event and wrote about meeting Dan Savage briefly for my "31 Days" series.

The Plight of Gay Republicans in 2012

Bil Browning — Tue, 22 May 2012 17:00:00 -0500

Yesterday, Bilerico co-founder and National Stonewall Democrats Executive Director, Jerame Davis, appeared on the Thom Hartmann Program to talk about the plight of gay Republicans in the 2012 presidential election cycle. Noted politico Karl Frisch guest hosted the show and the conversation is an interesting back and forth.

You can tell that Jerame is getting more and more comfortable with all of the media appearances he has to do for his job now. He's done interviews with publications around the nation now and made television appearances from stations as far away as the United Kingdom. Now he's taking his brand of LGBT politics to America's #1 progressive radio show.

With Obama coming out in full support of LGBT rights, how can gay Republicans continue to shill for a candidate who wants to institute McCarthy-style investigations into our community for "religious persecution" and keeps crowing about his support for a federal marriage amendment?

You won't want to miss it. Listen in after the break.

Continue reading "The Plight of Gay Republicans in 2012"...

A True False Prophet & My Tongue Talking Days

James Holmes — Tue, 22 May 2012 15:30:00 -0500

In the new documentary Kumar�: The True Story of a False Prophet, film maker Vikram Gandhi explores the topic of human spirituality by posing as an Indian guru in Phoenix, AZ to great success. The trailer looks fascinating - as it shows those he convinces to follow him experiencing profound religious and spiritual moments - even though the guy is lying to them and has no real power other than to work a camera. This reminds me of my own spiritual journey.

I am fascinated with religion and what causes people to develop such strong feeling about something that really makes no logical sense. Most of this comes from my former life as an evangelical United Pentecostal Jesusfreak - the kind where women can't cut their hair, have to wear dresses, and can't wear jewelry or make-up - but not the kind that dances with snakes.

Speaking in tongues is a requirement for salvation, and that above anything was what I struggled with the most as I tried to reconcile my religious beliefs with my sexuality. I have spoken in tongues on multiple occasions, and I have to be honest - it was some of the best highs I've ever felt.

But now I am no longer a Christian, and my old friends from home ask, "How do you dismiss what you felt? That has to be God."

I do not discount the experience, I just no longer believe its origins were heavenly. I believe the human mind has power we do not understand, and a drive to feel connected to something larger. For some, religion fills that void. Trance like states happen across multiple religions, and the power of suggestion can easily push those feelings along.

Continue reading "A True False Prophet & My Tongue Talking Days"...

Happy Harvey Milk Day! Event Notice and Video

Karen Ocamb — Tue, 22 May 2012 14:30:00 -0500

There are a number of events happening today to commemorate the late Harvey Milk, including this one:

On Tuesday, May 22, at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at West Hollywood Park, 625 N. San Vicente Blvd, there will be a panel discussion entitled "Got Milk - The Collision of the Arts & Social Justice in the Post-Harvey Milk Era." The program will feature a panel discussion moderated by Tony Valenzuela, Executive Director of the Lambda Literary Foundation and will feature special guest speakers including actor/director/playwright Peter Paige and Jon Imparato, Director of Cultural Arts at the LA Gay & Lesbian Center. Film clips from The Times of Harvey Milk will be shown, as will a student film on Milk's legacy. A dessert reception will follow the panel discussion. Please call (323) 848-6823 to RSVP for this event. Admission is free to all events. Two hours of free parking will be available in the West Hollywood Park Parking Garage with validation.

Milk's friend Cleve Jones has posted a number of photos and comments about Milk on this Facebook page and Harvey's nephew Stuart has posted a commemoration on the Harvey Milk Foundation website. But for those wondering why Harvey Milk is such an iconic LGBT hero - watch him discuss the 1978 antigay Briggs Initiative after the jump - arguments we are still making today!

Continue reading "Happy Harvey Milk Day! Event Notice and Video"...

PETA's Sexiest Vegetarian Likes Men More Than Beef

James Holmes — Tue, 22 May 2012 13:30:00 -0500

Not only is PETA's Sexiest Vegetarian 2012, Zachary Koval, hot as hell - he also bats for our team. I am pretty sure his looks alone could convert many a gay man to the world of cruelty free living. He prefers vegans and vegetarians, so if you are in the Brooklyn, N.Y. area and are hoping to snatch him up, it's time for a veggie burger or two.

When I tell people I am vegan, I am often asked questions like, "Where do you get enough protein? Don't you get sick?" Check out Zachary's photos and you will see that vegans are often healthier than the rest of the population (his exercise routine also helps).

No animals were harmed in the making of this body. I love the feeling that I'm doing good (for myself, for animals, and for the planet) with every meal. I feel alive and healthy and rarely get sick.

I may not have his body, but I am definitely the healthiest I have been. I've maintained a steady weight for roughly three years now. Having always been a constant yo-yo dieter, it still amazes me when I step on the scales in the morning.

Here is how PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman explains it:

Vegetarians' boosted health and energy - and their kindness toward animals - make them sexy inside and out. Zachary's outer beauty is obvious to anyone who meets him, and his passion for helping animals helps make him a winner in PETA's book.

Check out a couple pics of Zachary after the jump and let me know what you think of his cruelty free body.

Continue reading "PETA's Sexiest Vegetarian Likes Men More Than Beef"...

Assistant Secretary of State on Protections for LGBT Refugees

Karen Ocamb — Tue, 22 May 2012 12:30:00 -0500

Last Thursday, May 17, Anne Richard, the U.S. assistant secretary of state for population, refugees and migration, was among those who participated in an event at the Human Rights Campaign headquarters marking the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHO). Additionally a new report from Human Rights First was released - The Road to Safety: Strengthening Protection for LGBTI Refugees in Uganda and Kenya. Metro Weekly reported on the event, including these remarks from Assistant Secretary Richards:

US Assistant Secretary of State for refugees Anne C Richard (Photo via the State Department)

"I commend your work highlighting the plague of homophobia,. And I commend Human Rights First for launching a report to bring attention to the threats against LGBT refugees.

"When we read the accounts of abuse and exploitation included in this report, we have but one option: We must stand squarely on the side of the most vulnerable. We must do what we can to provide them an environment where their safety and security is ensured, and their rights and dignity upheld. That must be our priority."

And then this photo surface today on the Daily Beast showing a beating in Kiev, Ukraine on May 20 of Svyatoslav Sheremet, head of Gay Forum of Ukraine, when he met with the media to say that a scheduled gay pride parade had been cancelled. And the media stood and watched as he was viciously beaten.

Photo and Richard's remarks are after the break.

Continue reading "Assistant Secretary of State on Protections for LGBT Refugees"...

How Will Obama's Marriage Stance Affect Florida Voters?

Nadine Smith — Tue, 22 May 2012 12:00:00 -0500

Check out this debate featuring political strategist Steve Schale, infamous homophobe John Stemberg, and me on Orlando's CBS station. I'd embed the video but, unfortunately, they don't allow it.

Concentration Camps for Queers

Bil Browning — Tue, 22 May 2012 11:45:00 -0500

"Build a great, big, large fence -- 150 or 100 mile long -- put all the lesbians in there...Do the same thing for the queers and the homosexuals and have that fence electrified so they can't get out...and you know what, in a few years, they'll die out...do you know why? They can't reproduce!"

-- Pastor Charles Worley of Providence Road Baptist Church in Maiden, NC in a disgusting sermon last Sunday that would make the Phelps clan proud.