Lika Starr » gay-issues

LL Cool J Does not Take the Gay Bait

Lika Starr — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 05:22:37 +0000

Via Towleroad – TMZ is getting more and more anti-gay with every day that passes. It’s not that TMZ comes out and directly declares an anti-gay stance. While it is most likely purely monetary, it’s also quite obvious to those of us who have had to learn to read between the media lines – these days gay controversy sells.

Take this quickie one-on-one with a TMZ pap and LL Cool J at the airport as an example. The pap corners LL curbside. LL is kind enough but clearly tries to brush him off. The pap doesn’t give up and follows him inside. Most of the taping is cut out with the exception of some silly attempts to bullshit with the rapper. Then the pap throws in the line and cast a big juicy gay bait. LL spits it out true to his persona’s “cool” style.

TMZ pap: “But uh, what if you go into a, like a bar and get hit on by a gay guy? Does that change your nickname?”

LL: “Naw. I guess it just expands your options, huh? [mumbles something inaudible] decisions, decisions. [chuckles]”

So what does TMZ do with LL’s cool attitude towards such a ridiculous gay media baiting question? They give LL a big fat gay “?” beside his name as the title for their post.

LL Cool J Gay?

“Apparently LL sometimes stands for “Lads Love” Cool J too, not that there’s anything wrong with that.”

Media gay baiting 101 – ask a “what if gay this or that” question and twist the outcome to sell your garb headlines. As in this example where TMZ questions LL’s sexuality since he tried to play it cool. Had LL Cool J responded with something negative like saying he’d leave the bar then you can almost be assured TMZ would have made him out to be a homophobe when in fact they’re the ones out to stir up trouble. That is anti-gay. A better headline would have been something like “LL Cool J Is Cool On Gays” resulting in a positive outcome.

It’s crap like this that holds us back. The media (including these dirty gossip rags) has the power to make a change in our society. I think it’s about time we hear the good in people. And maybe, just maybe it would catch on. Yeah we know, pass the pipe bro.

Homophobic Ads? – Either Way, That Ain’t Right

Lika Starr — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 21:18:37 +0000

We see them all the time and it seems they get more and more clever at crossing the line. Like this Nike ad with the tagline “That Ain’t Right.” It’s only one of many in a series of ads for the Nike Hyperdunk campaign but it is this particular photo/tagline that has some gays going nuts over. The other images can be found at the photo ‘source’ below.

[Source: Gay.com, select view image for larger version]

And… Speaking of nuts, the Mars company just pulled a snickers ad after being hounded by the HRC (Human Rights Campaign). HRC praised the company for doing the right thing. But what exactly is the right thing? And, who exactly is doing it?

Here’s the pulled Snicker’s ad:

Snickers TV Commercial – Get Some Nuts – video powered by Metacafe

Lika’s Take:

There are others but I chose the two ads above because they are the most recent and they are very different from each other.

In homophobic terms, the Nike ad focus is on discounting the sexuality of sexual orientation while the Mar’s Snicker ad literally attacks gays while mocking the feminine stereotype of gay men.

In not-so-homophobic terms, the Nike ad is simply saying “Who wants a guys sweaty crotch in their face while on the court?” On the other hand, the Snickers ad is just dumb advertising. Big companies aren’t usually stupid so it’s kind of a hard pill to swallow to think the Snickers ad is just dumb advertising.

Mars has done this before with its nut bar in an ad that caused a stir during the Superbowl commercials. You remember — The two guys that touched lips while going after the same candy bar then had to do something “manly” to redeem themselves. I’ve got news for Snickers. That candy bar, we’ll it’s kinda gay itself. I mean it’s covered in a sweet chocolate skin, has plenty of nuts and even comes in king size. If you lick and suck it long enough, you’ll eventually get an explosion of flavor with the creamy stuff inside. Of course, I don’t know anyone who suck their Snickers bars, but I’m just sayin’.

That brings me to the question; why don’t they make white chocolate Snickers. They have regular and dark chocolate bars. Damn! Are they racists too? I don’t know about you but lots of people would like a full choice of flavors in their nut bars.

The message received out of any ad is in the eyes of the viewer. Out of these two ads I’m more inclined to believe there is an anti-gay message in the Mars advertising especially now, that they’ve done it twice. Remember, they’re not stupid. The Superbowl commercial got them plenty of press and now they’re trying it again. This time they pushed the envelope even more but that’s what you’ve got to do when you have to outdo yourself. It’s obvious when you think about it. But who is right and who is wrong when it comes making these kinds of ads and fighting them? I’m thinking no one is right and everybody is wrong. Yeah, I know. That was an oxymoron statement.

The HRC jumped all over Mars about this commercial. Mars pulled the commercial but not after press got a hold of it. But what messages does that really send? Sometimes when you show offense it can also mean you are defending whatever it is that you are offended by. Right? So, couldn’t this be construed as HRC stereotyping gays as well? My point is; there are just some things better left alone. If the Snickers ad would have directly labeled the speedrunner as a gay man then it would be a different matter altogether. Though the message is pretty clear to me it’s not blatant enough to draw even more attention to it which is exactly what the HRC did.

The homophobic nature of the Nike ad is not that obvious to me. I’m not even sure there is one. But the guys over at The Gay Recluse would surely disagree. I do not disrespect them nor will I even go as far to completely disagree. I will say it’s not that obvious to me. I think that sometimes we get so caught up in our rights we look a little too close without seeing the overall picture.

The Nike ads each picture two men. One with his face and the other with his crotch. More specifically they are face in crotch shots with catchy tag lines like “That Ain’t Right.” Since it involves a man’s face and another man’s crotch it would have to be sexually offensive if it were to be homophobic. But, is it? I don’t see it. I see nothing erotic or sexual about these photos.

To clarify, I’ll change the scenario. If the photo depicted a guy with a drooling open mouth and a twinkle in his eye as if he were about to score more than just two points at the goal then we might be talking homophobia. Otherwise, if you’re seriously in the middle of a game then who in their right mind would want another player slamming his crotch into your face. Whether you are gay or straight, it would be a distraction to your game. Sure, if you’re heterosexual it would probably also be personally repulsive. As it would be with a gay man who’s about to be slammed in the face with a woman’s crotch. My point is, no matter which way I look at this, That Ain’t Right on the court.

I will say any combo of off-the-court crotch to face slamming is to each his or her own. In fact, I encourage it. Oh, and you might as well go ahead and have a Snickers before hand. Ya know, for that extra energy boost. Knock yourselves out baby!

Welcome Best Male Blogs Readers

Lika Starr — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 18:07:47 +0000

I recently added my blog to the Best Male Blogs directory and as a result have been getting quite a few hits from the site. I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for stopping by. I recently just found Best Male Blogs myself and was excited to list mine there. Their site is truly a unique directory and easy to navigate. That is a big plus in the directory business and even a bigger one for our community.

While visiting my site, you’ll find there is no real particular genre. It’s not a photo blog of hot guys, it’s not particulary a news or politics site or even a personal site. But it is some of all those things. I simply try to be myself and write about the things that interest me. Usually adding my own twist and sometimes offbeat opinion. That said, you never really know what you will find here. But hopefully something I say along the way will make a difference in someone’s life. For me, that’s what it’s really all about.

I should also mention another of my favorite directories, Best Gay Blogs. If you haven’t checked out their site lately, you should when you get a chance. Best Gay Blogs was recently acquired by new owners and the change is a very positive one. I wrote a review on this site about them. They’re doing a great job at featuring gay blogs from all over in a magazine style format. It’s quite unique itself. Without a doubt, Best Gay Blogs and now Best Male Blogs are my two favorite places to search for what interests me.

I hope you enjoy my blog. If you do, please feel free to comment on the articles you enjoyed. I’m also open to suggestions at any time. If you have a blog of your own and you would like to add LikaStarr.com to your blogroll please let me know and I’ll be sure to return the favor. A little link-love is always fun.

Cyndi Lauper – Luke – Noah – As The World Turns

Lika Starr — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:49:23 +0000

[Source: Video from LukeVanFan]

The World – An Unkind Place For Gay Refugees

Lika Starr — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 20:58:10 +0000

By Hossein Alizadeh

Just two years ago, Arash and Javad (not their real names), two young Iranian men were building their future together. Arash was pursuing a successful career in Iran’s financial sector and Javad was a university student in Tehran. Now the men live in abject poverty in a remote area of Turkey. They have no income and are frequently forced to scavenge for food in their neighbors’ trashcans. Javad, a diabetic, needs regular monitoring and medication, which he cannot afford. His health has deteriorated to the point where he regularly suffers diabetic comas.

How did two young, upwardly mobile Iranians end up in such dire circumstances? The answer to this question is simple. Arash and Javad are gay men forced to flee their country as refugees. According to the Iranian penal code, homosexual conduct is a crime that is punishable by death.

Arash and Javad met in 2005 and conducted their relationship in secrecy for over a year. But late in 2006, Javad’s father caught them in an intimate act. Incensed at being dishonored, the ultra-religious man locked his son and his partner in the bedroom and rushed to the kitchen to get a knife, intending to kill them on the spot. Arash and Javad managed to escape through a window but knew that if they stayed in Iran either the mob or the morality police would soon catch up with them. Left with no choice, they fled to neighboring Turkey and applied for refugee status.

According to UN statistics, there are currently over 21,000 refugees in Turkey, 2,500 of whom are from Iran. Turkey is the preferred destination for many Iranian refugees because they do not have to get entry visas. However, once gay refugees arrive in Turkey, the situation is bleak. Due to the volume of applications, it normally takes up to two years for them to be reassigned to a country willing to accept them. During the transitional period, gay refugees are only allowed to live in small towns, without the right to work or pursue education. While the UN Refugee Agency may provide some financial aid, the amount is nominal and before they are eligible they must be recognized as “genuine” refugees. This is a process with results that are not guaranteed.

Arash and Javad have been interviewed twice by the UN Refugee Agency since their arrival in Turkey in December 2006. So far they have not been recognized as refugees, and therefore they are not eligible for any financial or medical aid.
This can lead to destitution for gay refugees, like Arash and Javad, who are forced to leave their country to escape persecution and death. Unlike other refugees, who travel in groups and enjoy various degrees of support from their family, church, or party members, gay and lesbian refugees are often disowned by their family members, have no support network, and in most cases do not have enough resources to survive the resettlement process.

The situation of gay refugees is complicated because the Turkish public and law enforcement agents are very hostile to sexual minorities, despite the fact that homosexuality is not a crime in Turkey. In recent years, many gay and lesbian refugees have been subject to verbal and physical attacks. As a consequence, they are often forced to remain indoors during the day for their own safety, and venture outside only at night, under cover of dark, when they are less likely to be recognized as foreign and can more readily hide their sexual orientation.

Tragically, there is no organization that attends to the needs of gay and lesbian refugees worldwide. The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, along with a few human rights and resettlement agencies, tries to respond to the refugee crisis but the overwhelming volume of cases makes it impossible to do without large-scale intervention. The US government currently spends hundreds of thousands of dollars to resettle religious and ethnic minorities who are persecuted in their home countries. Isn’t it time for our government to show some interest in protecting this vulnerable population, too?

Hossein Alizadeh, a gay Iranian who won asylum in the United States, is Communications Coordinator at the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission.

***

The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC) is a leading human rights organization solely devoted to improving the rights of people around the world who are targeted for imprisonment, abuse or death because of their sexuality, gender identity or HIV/AIDS status. IGLHRC addresses human rights violations by partnering with and supporting activists in countries around the world, monitoring and documenting human rights abuses, engaging offending governments, and educating international human rights officials. A non-profit, non-governmental organization, IGLHRC is based in New York, with offices in Cape Town and Buenos Aires. Visit http://www.iglhrc.org for more information

Lika’s Take:

I do not normally copy another article word for word as so many others do. I usually read them, get my own ideas and write my own story. This one came across my desk via forum that I am a member of. This article is very well written and shares my opinion even more eloquently than I could ever imagine. IGLHPC asks those of us who want to make difference to share th is article. It’s the least I can do. A very special thank you to Hossein Alizadeh.

An Evening Of Gay Wedding Bliss In California

Lika Starr — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 21:27:10 +0000

California, June 16th 2008 — Last month’s supreme court ruling lifting the ban on gay marriage in the sate of California goes into effect today at 5:00 PM. Originally, the court stated that same-sex couples could begin their nuptials on June 17th at 8:00 AM. That changed when San Francisco Mayor, Gavin Newsom, asked the court if his county could extend their hours on the 16th so they could perform marriages at the moment the new law goes into effect at 5:00 PM. Newsom’s wish was granted and inspired other counties followed suit once the court’s approval was announced.

San Francisco is planning a large media event for this evening to celebrate what will be an historic date and a significant milestone for gay rights. Mayor Newsom will officiate the first marriage in his county at 5:01 PM Phyllis Lyon and Del Martin who are in their 80′s and have been partners for over 5 decades will the be honorary couple. The couple is of significant importance to be the first because they were also the first couple to get married in San Francisco when Mayor Newsom took it upon himself to legalize same-sex marriages in 2004 in his city. It was a challenge to the state’s law that banned gays from getting married. Newsom’s actions were frowned upon by the state government and as a result all the marriages performed were struck down and deemed void.

Most counties in California will wait until the 17th for same-sex marriages as originally planned. The few that do get married this evening are mainly because they offer some sort of significance as a part of history. Like Robin Tyler and Diane Olson of Beverly Hills, who will also be married shortly after 5:00 PM on the steps of the courthouse. It is Tyler and Olson’s lawsuit against the state that ultimately knocked down the states ban on gay marriage.

Then there is Janice Atkinson of Sonoma County who is going to perform a marriage for couple this evening because it’s their 15th anniversary. Atkinson says she was touched by the couples request and thought, “why should these couples have to wait any longer.”

This evening’s wedding plans will undoubtedly be on light side compared to tomorrow’s nuptial flood of happy couples throughout the state when thousands same-sex couples are expected to wed. Most of whom have waited years for their right to do so.

Lika’s Take:

It’s about damn time! Congrats to all those getting hitched in California this evening and in the months and years to come. Best wishes for all of you with a lifetime of happiness.

Hot Guy Find: Reese Rideout – The Great Divide

Lika Starr — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 20:55:56 +0000

Reese Rideout Doin’ The Split (click for large photo)

This hot find is from The Sword featuring RandyBlue porn star, Reese Rideout having some fun at a meet & greet pool party sponsored by RentBoys. This is photo was taken by Starrfucker who was on hand to capture the day through his lens. There are lots more on his site.

[Warning: The links in this post may contain adult content]

Lika’s Take:

The second thing I thought about (my first thought should be obvious – that ass!) when I first came across this photo was the political divide gays are in now that Clinton is out of the race. It is almost beyond my comprehension how so many gays can say they’re going to vote for McCain and not Obama.

What makes it worse is their reasoning is shallow at best. Well…at least the one’s I’ve been privy to. It’s nothing but excuses to satisfy the anger of defeat. From talks about Obama’s lack of experience in decision making with a focus on faulty decisions to his troubles with the Church. All while seeming to conveniently forget that McCain has also had problems with church leaders and not to mention some pretty faulty decision making on his own.

So, how do we bridge this gap in our great divide? Looking at Reese above I can think of one hard and fast solution but that probably wouldn’t help our political situation much. On a second look at Reese, the answer is quite simple — Spread the love.

A lot of gays were so focussed on Hillary they really don’t know who Obama is. Sure, they think they do but let’s be honest. It’s more from a jilted lover perspective. In other words, they’re only seeing the bad. It’s up to those of us who were not blinded by our love affair with Hillary Clinton to spread the word and convince them that Obama is not the bad guy.

On a side note, I apologize for using Reese’s hot ass to promote Barack Obama. But, let’s face it. Sex sells

Obama Kicks Off Gay Pride Month With Proud Words

Lika Starr — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 19:35:40 +0000

Chicago, IL — Senator Barack Obama released this statement on his Pride website. Related posts:Obama Gay Pride – Open Letter To LGBT Community Clinton, Obama & McCain On Gay Iranian’s Possible Execution Obama’s Grandmother Does Not Live To See The Election Related posts:

Obama Gay Pride – Open Letter To LGBT Community

Lika Starr — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 01:57:20 +0000

I thought I was going to get a break from writing about politics for a while since Barack Obama clinched the democratic nomination earlier this week. But something resurfaced today and as it turns out it is a good Friday to end a good week.

There was also a conference call today where Obama’s campaign reached out to Clinton’s supporters. On that call Obama’s campaign manager, Seve Hildebrand reached out to Clinton’s gay supporters and assured them that Obama would host a follow-up call to directly address gays within two weeks. The emphasis was on Obama’s “rock solid commitment to gay equality.”

Barack Obama released a letter to the LGBT Community back in February. It didn’t get much attention at the time. But now it is making the rounds on the internet. It would seem that he has wisely chosen to get his views on LGBT issues out of the way early for the battle against republican nominee John McCain. That’s a good decision and what he has to say is even better.

“As your President, I will use the bully pulpit to urge states to treat same-sex couples with full equality in their family and adoption laws.

I will never compromise on my commitment to equal rights for all LGBT Americans.

Related posts:
Racial Divide – Will It Cost Obama The Election?

Clinton, Obama & McCain On Gay Iranian’s Possible Execution

Landmark Day For LGBT People – No Hate!

California Gay Marriage Ban Approved For November Ballot

Lika Starr — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 03:31:19 +0000

The battle is on in California. The supreme court’s ruling in May will now be officially challenged and be put up for the voters to decide in November.

Secretary of State Debra Bowen of California confirmed the measure, California Marriage Protection Act, has enough valid signatures to be put on the November ballot. The measure brought forth by religious and social conservative groups needed only 694,354 signatures or 8% of the votes cast during the last governor’s race. However, the opposition groups submitted 1,120,801 signatures. Only 3% of those signatures were required to be randomly checked to prove validity.

The California Marriage Protection Act would amend the state’s constitution to “provide that only marriage between a man and a woman in valid or recognized in California.”

The opposition is still demanding the supreme court stay it’s decision until after the November 4th election. The court has not conceded to this request and still plans on allowing gays and lesbians to marry beginning June 17th.

Current state polls in California show the vote split with a narrow favor of supporting the supreme court’s ruling and rejecting the constitutional amendment. This number is drastically different than in 2004 when voters rejected gay marriage by a 60/40 margin. Opponents of gay marriage are worried that if same-sex couples are allowed to marry before November there may be some Californians who would not vote for the amendment if it meant putting thousands of marriages in jeopardy.

Related posts:
California Says No To 10 States Request For Stay On Gay Marriage Ruling

Opposition Gains Ground On Prop. 8 in California

41.2 Million Pour Into Prop 8 From Both Sides

Million For Gay Marriage – Sign Up Now

Lika Starr — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 19:07:19 +0000

I recently received an email from HRC (Human Rights Campaing). Yes, I am a member. In that email was the following “letter” to send to all my friends. I am complying with their request. To see why please see Lika’s Take below.

***
Friends,

Do you want to live in a country that legalizes discrimination? Despite the recent California Supreme Court decision that denying same-sex couples the right to marry is unconstitutional, efforts are underway throughout the country to take away rights from same-sex couples.

I just joined thousands of others in showing my support for marriage equality for all. But recently, proponents of bigotry and hate collected even more signatures in an attempt to invalidate the California Supreme Court decision. And they won’t stop with California

Related posts:
California Gay Marriage Ban Approved For November Ballot

Show Your Support For California Gay Marriage Ruling

An Evening Of Gay Wedding Bliss In California

California Says No To 10 States Request For Stay On Gay Marriage Ruling

Lika Starr — Sat, 31 May 2008 10:25:22 +0000

The attorney generals of Alaska, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Michigan, Nebraska, New Hampshire, South Carolina, South Dakota and Utah drafted a letter to the State of California asking for a stay on it’s recent ruling that overturned a ban on gay marriage.

The states are worried that their own gay citizens will flea to California to get married only to return and fight for equality in their home states. Of course that’s not the direct wording of the request but it certainly could be said to sum it up.

The letter states that allowing marriages to start before November would cause unnecessary legal battles in their states should California’s constitution be amended making the Supreme Court’s ruling void.

The merit behind the letter is the opponents in California who are seeking to include a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage in November. If the measure is approved, voters will have a say whether or not gay marriage would be legal in the state under a constitutional amendment.

Currently, gays will be able to get married beginning on June 17th. The state is scurrying to get the marriage licensing paperwork reworded to reflect the new changes. Attorney General, Jerry Brown, of California said in a response to the letter, “The matter has now been resolved by the state Supreme Court.”

Lika’s Take:

Of course we know the real reason these states are getting together. It really has nothing to do with them having to deal with gays having to unnecessarily fight marriage laws in their own states. The fact is, all they have to do is turn them down because the law does not apply to their state. The real reason is fear that California’s gay ways will spread eastward and encroach upon their religious roots. These states know that if gays are allowed to get married before the November ballot there’s a slim chance the majority will vote for a constitution amendment that will revoke thousands of marriages that have already taken place.

But…Only 10? Where was my state in all of this? Texas must have missed the boat. Nah, that’s not true. Texas is not known to ban together with other states very often. It likes to eat it’s own and take full credit with pride. Then again, it might just be too busy with it’s child welfare debacle in regards to the 460 children taken from the YFZ polygamist’s ranch.

On the other hand I am very proud of California for sticking to its guns. I’ve got a feeling the religious right will get a shock to the system in November when the majority votes against the constitutional ban.

But it’s not a given. According to the most recent polls victory may be eminent but only by a narrow majority. Opposers are fighting a ferocious battle and securing millions of dollars to do swing the vote. We have to fight back. Most of the leading best gay blogs have tried to do their part to spread the word of how we can support California. On my own blog I posted this information as well. Please, lets do our part.

Lika Starr

Related posts:
California Gay Marriage Ban Approved For November Ballot

Show Your Support For California Gay Marriage Ruling

An Evening Of Gay Wedding Bliss In California

Larry Craig To Make $$$ On Gay Ways

Lika Starr — Thu, 29 May 2008 20:29:05 +0000

[Source: Lika Starr, Original photo from SparklePony]

Senator Larry Craig is authoring a book to tell all. It will include what happened involving his arrest last year by an undercover cop in a men’s restroom stall.

Craig said, “There will be a bit of what’s happened in the last year and they way it evolved…I think it’s important for Idaho and those outside Idaho who are interested to know.”

He also told a Boise TV station that the book will focus on the state of politics in Washington.

Lika’s Take:

I’m happy the Senator has found a way to make some $$$ on his alleged homosexual ways. Yes, Senator Craig…we want to know. NOT!

The only thing I’m interested in is when you’ll own up and come out of the stall. Getting caught red-handed & wet palmed with your pants down in a public restroom didn’t do the trick. Apparently, you didn’t get your trick either — that time!

Lika

Related posts:
Senator Larry Craig Arrested — Lewd Conduct In Men’s Room

Larry Craig – Another “Blow” under his belt?

Idaho Statesman Finally Outs U.S. Sen. Larry Craig

Show Your Support For California Gay Marriage Ruling

Lika Starr — Wed, 28 May 2008 18:29:55 +0000

The governor’s office is getting swamped with phone calls by the religious right showing their disappointment in Schwarzenegger’s refusal to opposed the supreme court’s ruling. As a result Schwarzenegger’s office has set up an automated phone system to take the calls. People can call in to oppose or support the ruling.

So, let’s have a little fun and fight back by letting our voices be heard. It’s simple and only takes a few seconds. But the lines are busy so you may have to try a few times to get through. Once you’ve gotten through share the info with your friends letting them know how they can speak up and out. You do not have to be a California resident to participate.

Call 1-916-445-2841 and be heard! A special thanks to America Blog for the information.

Our financial support is also needed to help spread awareness and gain support for voting against the possible Constitutional Amendment in the upcoming November election in California. Currently a state poll in California shows a narrow margin of voters are against the Marriage ban which is good news. But it might not be enough. The religious right is working hard and raising millions of dollars to fight gay marriage.

Go to Equality California for more information on a financial donation. The Human Rights Campaign has also set up a way to donate directly to the fund via their site.

Lika Starr

Related posts:
California Says No To 10 States Request For Stay On Gay Marriage Ruling

California Gay Marriage Ban Approved For November Ballot

Opposition Gains Ground On Prop. 8 in California

Brazil Offers Russia Some Gay Pride Love

Lika Starr — Mon, 26 May 2008 02:16:46 +0000

Recently I wrote an article about Moscow denying Gays the right to any public event for Pride celebration year after year. This year Brazil steps up to the plate and offers Moscow Gays some love.

Sao Paulo Gay Pride 2008: Go-go boys at Girassol from Made In Brazil on Vimeo.

The worlds largest and by far the most extravagant Gay Pride Parade attracts millions from around the world. The parade was held Sunday May 25th and expected 3 million in attendance.

Sao Paulo Gay Pride 2008: Go-go Boys At TOY from Made In Brazil on Vimeo.

With the recent announcement of the continued problems in Moscow, the Pride Parade Association of Sao Paulo, Brazil said it would hold it’s parade for Moscow as well. Moscow Pride organizer, Nicolas Alexeyev will be flying into Sao Paulo to attend the festivities. He will also be presented with the “Citizen Award for Respecting Diversity” award. The association released the following statement:

“The presence of Moscow Pride organizer Nicolas Alexeyev will strengthen our fight against homophobia, and for Senate approval of a law criminalizing homophobia,

“We consider that the two Pride Parades are the best examples to homophobia around the world and their organisers and participants represent our best hopes in construction of a world with more justice and respect to the human rights, as well the guarantee of citizenship of LGBT population.

“We hope this alliance can help them in their local struggle, summing more support for a better condition in the next Pride Parades.”

Lika’s Take:

I think this news is terrific. If can’t think of a message to send Moscow’s mayor and its government. I realize it’s not a real expectation that this will change anything right away but hopefully seeing another event reaching out with such a huge attendance will help boost things along over the coming years. Who knows? Stranger things have happened.

In the very least, gay people of Russia can take some redemption out of this knowing that others are on their side. It would be even cooler if all the major Pride events of the world showed the same expression of solidarity.

I wasn’t sure if I should throw in some of the first videos from the Sau Paulo Pride week in conjunction with such a serious article. But then again it’s all about celebrating and freedom of expression. Besides, those boys are hot!

Related posts:
Moscow Mayor Says Gays Are Weapons Of Mass Destruction

We Love Made In Brazil Too

Move Over Beckham…

12 Year Old Girl Granted Court Approved Sex Change

Lika Starr — Sun, 25 May 2008 00:37:47 +0000

I definitely have something to say about this. See Lika’s Take below.

Australia — The Daily Telegraph reporting. A 12 year old girl has been granted permission by a judge to undergo a sex change operation. Obviously the patient is too young to make this decision on her own so the mother filed the paperwork to allow medical procedures to begin.

So far she has only begun hormone treatments which is the first step, followed by surgery several months down the road.

No one close to the 12 year old opposed the decision to seek court approval except for the girl’s father. But he could not afford an attorney to legally represent his objections. The father says the girl is too young to make this decision.

An endocrinologist, a psychiatrist, a family counselor, a State Government watchdog and a lawyer acting for the child all supported the girl and her mother.

Her mother says she is saddened expresses concern for her daughter but says she will stand by her. The girl’s lawyer said she believes her client is mature enough to make an informed decision in regards to the procedure.

The court order also grants the 12 year old to obtain a new birth certificate with a new gender identity and name change. She will also be able to obtain a new passport and Medicare card. The sex change procedure will be funded by tax payer dollars.

Lika’s Take:

I read this and thought “OMG – WTF, is this real? — Seriously! The girl is TWELVE years old! What is wrong with these people and more importantly what is wrong with the judge, lawyer, doctors and most importantly, the girl’s mother.

Maybe my reaction to this story is because I have a 13 year old daughter myself and I just cannot imagine her making a decision like this at that age.I understand this girl has felt she should have been a boy all her life. I fully support people who decided to go through a sex change. I’m sure it is daunting and I am also sure that the earlier it’s done the better off the person would be…but 12? Come on! That’s just insane.

At 12 years old she is probably just developing or did so recently. Maybe that’s it, maybe she doesn’t want to develop into an adult woman. I can even understand that…but 12? Come on! Insane, I tell you! I’m not saying she’s insane for wanting this but everyone else around her has got to be for allowing this to go this far this soon.

There is a lot more to a sex change then just the mental side of things. There is also a very strong physical side. I’m talking about sex and sexual function. There is no way this girl knows about this in a fully mature (as in adult) way yet.

A female to male transgender cannot achieve natural erections. Well, they can somewhat but it is nowhere near the real thing to my understanding. They also cannot experience male ejaculation or orgasm the way a naturally born male can. There is the decision of whether to use your own tissue to form new genitalia or have it enhanced with prosthetics. I’m not saying these things should deter a transgender transition. But I am saying there is no way that a 12 year old can fully understand this without first becoming an adult and through life experiences, etc. What if when this child grows up, it’s not what all she thought it to be and thinks she made a mistake.

Anyone who has read any part of my blog knows I fully support equal rights for just about anything. I am a firm believer in human rights all the way. I do support this 12 year old’s feelings, needs, desires and wishes. I fully understand how it would feel to trapped in the wrong gender. But I just think in this case it’s too fast, too soon.

The article indicates a counselor was involved so I assume the girl has had therapy. But was it enough? I wouldn’t think so, not at just 12 years old.

As a parent I would encourage my child to be who she/he feels they are on inside. There is no way I would allow a 12 year old to proceed medically with something like this though. Counsel, yes, but medical procedures…no!

Because of my strong objections to this as a parent I also have to ask myself at what age would I condone procedures to begin. Using this case as an example I would probably agree for her to begin medical treatment around the age of 16 and then surgery after she turns 18. I would want to make absolutely sure my daughter is doing what is right for her. Even 16 sounds a little young to me. But if she had been seeing counsel for 4+ years and she had already developed as an adult physically and mentally then and only then would I commit to any type of medical procedures.

If I am to be totally honest with myself, I’m not even sure I’d do it then. I would probably tell her that I support her completely but she’s going to have to wait until she can make this decision as an adult. I would also ensure her that I would wholly support her decision and help in anyway that I could.

It would be a difficult decision as a parent to deny a child something that means so much to them. But the consequences are just too permanent to make a mistake at such a young age. I can’t even begin to imagine what our lives would be like if at 20 or 30 years of age my child came back to me and said I ruined her life forever by allowing this when she was just a child.

Lastly, I do not know this child and I am not her parent. So the extenuating circumstances are probably beyond my understanding. I just cannot see any conditions that would warrant it. Yet, at the same time a part of me tells me I have no right to say what I’ve said here. With that thought, this is merely my opinion as if I were faced with this situation as only I can imagine it.

Lika Starr

[Update: 05-25-2008]

As this story develops more information will be added to this post.

Additional sources: digital journal & heraldsun

The girl will not be allowed to undergo sex-change surgery until she is 18 years of age.

The hormonal treatments will prevent the girl from developing further into a woman, including breast development and widened hips, etc.

A cousin of the family who claims to have lived in the girl’s household between 1999 @ 2001 says the mother brainwashed her daughter into being a boy. He says when he lived in the home, the mother purchased boy’s underwear and clothes for her daughter. If this is true, the girl would have been about 5 years old at the time.

It is also said that the mother experienced postpartum depression after the birth of her daughter and has always told her that she wanted a son and is glad that she acts like one.

The girl has a younger female sibling who refers to her as her older brother.

The girl reportedly sent a text message to her father stating that she would kill herself if she has to grow up as woman.

The mother and her two daughters live in public housing, which is why the procedures are being funded by tax dollars.

The cousin is trying to help the father obtain the resources so that he can appeal the court’s ruling.

Lika’s Take Two:

As I find more information on this story, I think I’m beginning to understand where my viewpoints are stemming from. We’re all different
. We live in and endure different circumstances throughout life. When I first read this story I sensed something was out of place. I now know what that is. I think it’s safe to say this family has experienced some troubling times financially, emotionally and possibly even physically. By physically, I mean physical hardships, not abuse. My thought is this might raise some stability issues in both the parents and possibly even the girl. I’m quite sure extensive psychological evaluations were done, but was it enough?

Even if the above is true it does not merit a decision on it’s on. But I do think it warrants some consideration and maybe those considerations were observed and accounted for. Usually I’m unwavering on my opinions but circumstances can make a difference. In the case of the girl I still feel like a decision was made too hastily by the court. The court proceedings only lasted two days and opposition was not sought out (not that it’s required). Yet I feel the court should have at least “heard” all sides for the sake of the child.

I read another story about a young boy who is undergoing transgender treatments. His family has an entirely different background. Upon reading that story, I was compelled to agree with with the parent’s decision. Almost to the point where I might rebuke my own opinions on the matter as a whole.

Lika Starr

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Moscow Mayor Says Gays Are Weapons Of Mass Destruction

Lika Starr — Fri, 23 May 2008 16:22:07 +0000

Homosexuality was decriminalized by the Russian Parliament during 1993. It may no longer be illegal to be gay but opposition remains strong and sometimes violent. Gay activists have attempted to organize gay parades in Moscow for years now with all of them resulting in failures.

[Photo Source: en.rian.ru]

In the photo above, British musician Richard Fairbrass of Right Said Fred, was beaten by ultra-nationalist who oppose gays. The photo is from a set taken at the aborted 2007 gay parade in Moscow.

Moscow mayor, Yury Luzhkov, has repeatedly prevented organizers from any public events or actions in the capital. The mayor has denounced these events as “the work of Satan” and “weapons of mass destruction” against Russia by the West.

For the third consecutive year, gay pride organizers were denied the scheduled parade for May 1st and 2nd of this year. As a result gay activists pledged to march on Moscow’s capital streets 5 times a day during the month of May.

Nikolai Alekseyev, a gay pride organizer in Moscow, stated they want to show the European justice that homosexuals are not allowed to freely express their opinions in Moscow. He added that court proceedings would continue against Moscow authorities for banning the parades in 2007 and 2008.

Alekseyev said, “five notifications, which we are submitting to the government of Moscow for each day in May, touch upon the marches on different streets in the city center.” Of course the marches never manifested as they were rejected by the Moscow government.

Meanwhile in the USA, gay human rights activists expressed their support for Russian gays. In San Francisco, activists conversed with the Russian consulate on May 16th. This was of IDAHO events planned around the world. The objective of the San Francisco event was to press the Russian government to grant parade permits to its gay citizens.

[Photo Source: Gay Republic]

George Duvoisin, a gay youth advocate, asked the official they spoke to stand with the group for a photo and he agreed. He also accepted recent news stories and engaged in pleasant conversation with the activists. The official identified himself as Sergei, which is likely Sergei Vakulenko, Russian Consulate in San Francisco.

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Witch Doctor Gambian President Says He Will Kill Gays

Lika Starr — Fri, 23 May 2008 03:00:47 +0000

My oh my — That’s a long staff you have there Mr. President. Gambia’s president, Yahya Jammeh says he’ll kill gays if they don’t leave the country. He’s mandated that gay renters be kicked out of hotels and their dwellings before he sends in the troops to round up gays.

I feel sadness and pain for all residents of the Gambia to have such a disturbed leader. My words are not just in regards to his blatant murderous hatred of homosexuals. This man actually says and believes he saves lives (yet he contracts to kill his own). He believes he can cure AIDS, pneumonia and other serious illnesses just by waiving his hands, by touch and herbal concoctions.

I have to wonder if he uses his staff as a magical wand. One wave and hundreds killed or saved. Or, maybe he uses it for a more personal pleasure behind closed doors. Ahh…the magic of imagination. It can take one to some peculiar places.

Lucbilly from YouTube has more on the story.

***

I came across poetic justice in the words of Lenelle Moise, who responded to President Jammeh’s announcement via her YouTube channel. Have a listen to her moving words below. I must admit this vid gave me chills the first time I played it. It’s a great piece Lenelle

***

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Fox News On Homosexuality – It May Be Simply For Pleasure

Lika Starr — Tue, 20 May 2008 18:42:23 +0000

Fox News has never been known for liberal views. But when a republican majority of Justices in the California Supreme Court ruled to overturn the ban on Gay Marriage justification is needed. As a result, Fox News published an article yesterday titled Homosexuality Common in the Wild, Scientists Say.

The lead-in statement addresses the California Supreme Court ruling and asks if homosexuality is natural. To answer it’s own question, the article addresses two male New York penguins that raised a chick from birth as their own and goes on confirm that 1,500 animal species practice in same-sex behaviors.

To explain the occurrence of “natural” homosexuality the author, Clara Moskowitz, says since homosexuality doesn’t lead to reproduction it may be simply for pleasure. Apparently, this is also answers why evolution hasn’t eliminated the homosexual trait amongst species [including humans]. Moskowitz quotes biologist, Janet Moran as saying, “Not every sexual act has a reproductive function…That’s true of humans and non-humans.” The article goes on to briefly explore other “reasons” such as bonding and teaching/practing for heterosexual sex.

Perhaps most notable and interesting is the article’s view on homophobia. Moskowitz writes, “One thing that does seem to be exclusive to humans is homophobia.” Again she quotes biologist, Janet Mann, “It’s a very interesting question as to why anybody ever cares…There are different theories about why people find it threatening.”

“Some think it disrupts male bonds, like you’re not playing for the right team. The funny thing is that people say homosexuality is unnatural, that non-humans don’t engage in homosexual behavior, but that’s not true. Then they’ll say it’s base and animalistic.”

——————————————————-

Lika’s Take:

I find it interesting if not amusing how skillfully ironic it is that so many real and important issues were left out of this article Issues like love, commitment and basic rights. Not only human rights, but those of all creatures. After reading this article I was left feeling like I had just read an archaic introduction on homosexuality.

The emphasis on homophobia left me feeling somewhat empty as well. The basis of all homophobia is religion, yet it’s not mentioned once. I would surely agree that some heterosexual men may feel threatened by homosexuality in terms of masculinity. Of course that could result in homophobia. But that does nothing to explain a woman’s point of view. However, even those types of homophobic men probably wouldn’t be concerned if homosexuality was considered normal. That brings me back to the fundamental reason that homosexuality is not accepted — religion.

I understand that there are two basic reasons that people have issue with homosexuality. The most critical reasoning is religion. But there are also those who proclaim the “natural” law of procreation, citing homosexuality is not normal because two males or two females cannot naturally make offspring. While I personally feel that the majority of these people are just making an attempt to give credence to religion, i do see their points from a biological viewpoint. That doesn’t mean that I think they are correct in saying homosexuality is abnormal.

It’s quite the opposite actually. I feel natural things are just the way are and no explanation is needed if it doesn’t cause harm to anyone. I also do not think it is any of our right to attempt to rewrite the laws of nature. That includes the Bible which does more than it’s fair share of attempting to rewrite nature.

Although the Fox News article comes up empty in my opinion I also give them kudos for making an effort even if it is only an attempt to “appease” a few republican appointed judges. It’s a step in the right direction no matter how contrived the reasoning may be.

Lika Starr

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Gay Kiss Causes Server Crash For Cay Compass

Lika Starr — Wed, 07 May 2008 15:59:59 +0000

Caymanian Compass is the leading newspaper of the Cayman Islands. The newspaper’s website crashed following the story of Aaron Chandler’s police detainment for kissing his boyfriend at Royal Palms last week.

According to the paper, it’s site statistics showed 662,991 hits on Monday. But Web Development Manager, Bronwyn Robbins said,

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Bush Apologizes To Chandler For Anti-Gay Police Incident

Lika Starr — Tue, 06 May 2008 23:50:40 +0000

“Bush Apologizes To Chandler For Anti-Gay Police Incident”

(No, not that Bush… but I could not resist the title)

Pilar Bush, director of the Cayman Islands Tourism Bureau, personally apologized to Aaron Chandler for an police incident this past week. Chandler and his boyfriend were out partying with some girls. They were dancing and having a good time. The boys kissed and were reprimanded by a local policeman for showing public affection. Chandler and his mate shrugged the encountered off and continued dancing. When they kissed again the cop called for backup and they were hauled off to the station.

They were told what they were doing was against the law. One officer even admitted that he thought the laws were stupid but he had to enforce them. Queerty asked it’s readers to email the Cayman Islands Tourism Bureau on May 2nd, when the story first broke. Today we learn that Chandler who is also a gay activist received the apology.

While the Cayman Islands are a British Territory, it does have sovereignty which means that it does not have to abide by British discriminatory laws.

In Pilar Bush’s apology, she acknowledged that the islands get thousands of gay tourist every year and wants to assure all that this was an isolated incident citing, that gays are and have always been welcomed to the Caymans.

Lika Starr

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School Principal Publicly Humilates Gay Students

Lika Starr — Tue, 06 May 2008 23:49:07 +0000

Memphis TN – Hillis F. Price Middle College High School. In September, 2207 Principal Daphne Beasley demanded a list of student “couples” from her faculty in an effort to curb PDA (public display of affection) within the school. The demand asking for the names of all couples “hetersexual and homo” came via the school’s intercom system. When the list was compiled, Principal Beasley published the list in her office for all to see who entered her office.

Nicholas, a male student was among the names listed on the Principal’s list. He was listed along with another male, Andrew, as the two were dating. Principal Beasley called Nicholas’ mother and outed him asking if she new her son was gay. Beasley went on to say that she’s glad she doesn’t have kids so she doesn’t have to deal with things like this. Beasley also stated that homosexuality would not be tolerated in her school. The two boys were outed by another student to the teacher who provided their names to the principal.

Nicholas said, “I really feel that my personal privacy was invaded…I mean, Principal Beasley called my mother and outed me to my mother!”

The ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) has stepped in to represent the two boys and their mothers. “I really couldn’t believe that a principal would have done something like this,” said Christine Sun, an ACLU attorney handling the case.

“The Constitution provides all of us with the right to privacy and the right to associate whomever we want to associate with,” said Sun. “And by creating this list and intruding upon these students’ privacy without any reason to, she violated their constitutional rights.”

Both Nicholas and Andrew have been subjected to discrimination, humiliation and harassment by their teachers and fellow students since the public outing. Yet the school staff, including Principal Beasley, admit neither of the boys have ever been personally observed in any sort of PDA or otherwise bad behavior.

Nicholas had previously submitted the necessary paperwork and also had several recommendations from his teachers to go on a school trip to help rebuild New Orleans. He was being highly considered until the actions of Principal Beasley stopped him cold. One teacher told Nicholas that faculty were fearful that his involvement would embarrass the school. Afterwards another student who hadn’t ever applied was selected to go on the trip instead of Nicholas.

Nicholas, who is a junior and an honor student at the school is worried that this might even hurt his college opportunities.

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2.9% LGB Population Says US Study

Lika Starr — Tue, 06 May 2008 23:29:06 +0000

A Hunter College poll says that only 2.9% (with a 3.5% margin of error) of Americans are Lesbian, Gay or Bisexual. This story was released as an Advocate exclusive on May 1st, 2008. However this poll was conducted in November of 2007 and is not new as PinkNews.uk reports in an article today.While the poll may not be new news itself I do find the accompanying story interesting. Professor Patrick Egan suggests why this particular poll is so groundbreaking. Most polls that estimate the percentage of the populous that are LGB are done with exit polls at voter booths. The exit poll method has indicated that 4% – 5% Americans are LGB. Egan said, “Gays and lesbians vote much more consistently than the general population.

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Australia Calls For Anti-Gay Laws To Cease

Lika Starr — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:52:13 +0000

SYDNEY (Reuters) -
Australia will remove almost 100discriminatory laws preventing gay couples from sharing
financial and social entitlements enjoyed by married and defacto couples, such as superannuation and pension death benefits.

The changed laws will affect all areas where Gays are discriminated against including taxes, social security, health care, estate and employment benefits and children who are part of

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Lika Starr — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 11:48:24 +0000

This April, Equality Forum called on all three U.S. presidential candidates and asked if they would help convince Britain’s Prime Minister Gordon Brown to stay the deportation of gay Iranians who fled their country to Britain in fear of execution.

Obama Campaign:

Was the first to respond by saying in a statement Monday that the senator

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