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EILE
Magazine Vol. 2 Issue 2 – July 2014
Fostering in our new LGBT parenting series
Rebel Heroes! Cork Pride
Transphobia: How united are we? Inside:
Conchita
On marriage equality and her love for Ireland
Music | California Dispatch | Fashion & Film
EILE Magazine | Who’s Who
Contributors Nick Bassett Originally from Bournemouth but now based in Auckland, New Zealand, Nick is the creator of Chart Shaker, a daily music blog. Rob Buchanan Rob is a writer and blogger based in Blanchardstown in north Dublin, writing about LGBT culture and literature. Scott De Buitléir Scott is the creator of EILE Magazine and is a writer and broadcaster from Dublin. He also hosts The Cosmo, RTÉ’s LGBT radio show, every Wednesday at 10pm. Mark Graham Mark is from Port Laoise and is a graduate of English from University College Dublin. He has produced several fashion shows for charity. Lisa Reynolds Originally from County Meath, Lisa is a fashion industry student living in Bray, County Wicklow. Stephen Spillane Stephen is political activist with Young Fine Gael and is also Secretary of Cork Pride 2014. He is involved with the Church of Ireland’s LGBT group. Rick Watts Based in Los Angeles, Rick is an LGBT activist and contributor to the NewsWrap segment of LGBT radio show, This Way Out. He is also a board member of TWO‘s production company, Overnight Productions. Frances Winston Frances Winston is EILE’s resident film buff, and has contributed to many publications such as The Irish Independent and Irish Tatler.
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EILE Magazine | Welcome
Highlights July 2014 Conchita Wurst – P.10 We chat with the newly-crowned Queen of Eurovision about love, LGBT rights and her love for Ireland
Fostering – P.20 In the first of our new LGBT parenting series, we explore fostering in Ireland for LGBT people and couples
California Dispatch – P.26 Rick Watts takes us on a 545-mile journey across California for HIV/AIDS
Volume 2, Issue 02 Editor-in-Chief: Scott De Buitléir Features Editor: MKB Contributors: Nick Bassett, Rob Buchanan, MKB, Mark Graham, Lisa Reynolds, Stephen Spillane, Rick Watts, Frances Winston Photographers: Thomas Hanses, Mark Moloney NB: All images in this publication are either under Creative Commons licence, or used with permission. Any queries can be made via eile.ie/contact Special Thanks to MKB for all her hard work, dedication and support. Web: http://eile.ie
Film Reviews – P.46 Frances Winston previews Begin Again and Tammy, both out in Ireland this month
Contact: eilemagazine@outlook.com Twitter: @EileMagazine Facebook: http://fb.com/eilemagazine Note: All opinions expressed in this issue are the writers’ own.
Music Reviews & Interviews
Music
Nick Bassett reviews new music for EILE, while we also chat to Smoke Season in Los Angeles, GANGS in Dublin and Paul M in London
…and much more! EILE Magazine 3
EILE Magazine | Editor’s Letter
Contents 6-
Smoke Season
The Future Is In Our Sights
10 - Conchita Wurst 12 -
LGBT News Round-Up
14 -
Menswear
20 -
Fostering
22 -
Sixties Fashion
26 - California Dispatch 32 -
Meditation Frustration!
36 -
Paul M
40 - Transphobia 42 -
GANGS
46 -
Film Reviews
48 -
Music Reviews
51 -
Dublin Lesbian Line
54 -
Cork Pride
66 -
Photos: Dublin Pride
If all goes according to plan, the Dáil should start debating the Family & Relationships Bill before the Government goes on their summer holidays. If (or as the optimist in me says, when) passed, same-sex couples will be granted the same parenting rights as opposite-sex couples, which they should have been given years ago. Still, Irish politics wouldn’t be so… interesting… if it happened fast. At least, that’s what I keep telling myself. Fostering, however, is one form of family-building that same-sex couples in Ireland are already able to get involved with. In fact, gay & lesbian couples are desperately needed to become foster carers. Over 6,500 children in this country need a home – even if that is for a short while – and LGBT people are just as capable as anyone else to provide one for them. As marriage equality gets ever closer to these shores (again, forgive the optimist in me!) we need to look at the other areas of inequality within Irish society. These include transgender rights and parenting rights, but one category is not more important than the other. One does not take precedence. We are supposed to be one community, and we need to remind ourselves of that regularly. That said, we can be proud that support in Ireland for LGBT rights is growing ever stronger. Last month, some 40,000 people turned out to celebrate Dublin Pride. That’s incredible, and it shows that there is a bright future ahead of us, just breaking upon the horizon. We can’t give up now.
Scott De Buitléir
Founder/Editor-in-Chief EILE Magazine 4
Music | Smoke Season
Smoke Season
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Music | Smoke Season
“There’s something about California that holds a lot of adventure and wonder”, Gabrielle Wortman explains. “We took a hold of that western soul a little bit, and we decided to start making music that embodied our experience as non-native people in California.” Both Gabrielle – who introduced herself to me as Gabby – and Jason Rosen are from the upper east coast of the United States, but found themselves relocating to California to further their musical careers with Smoke Season, something that Gabby says affected them both emotionally. With what Gabby describes as having “a strong Americana foundation”, Smoke Season’s single, Badlands, is a catchy introduction to the American duo’s musical talents, leaving listeners wanting more. The duo are by no means restricted in their style – quite the opposite in fact. Gabby tells me that she’s very EILE Magazine 7
Music | Smoke Season excited to record the more experimental songs for their upcoming EP, which she says will be instantly recognisable. “Experimentation is the most important thing to our sound,” Gabby explains. “One of the biggest things we do when writing music, is we really experiment heavily with different types of pedals and effects… different technology we can put on what would normally be a traditional melody line. Experimenting with sound and ambience is built into our songwriting process.” What also makes this talented pair notable, is their active and vocal support for LGBT rights and the community. Gabby is
Smoke Season: Jason Rosen & Gabby Wortman
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openly bisexual, and recalls her solo performance at Seattle Pride in 2011, before Smoke Season was formed, with great fondness. She is quick, however, to praise Jason “as a really great example of a male feminist”, noting that they share similar views of equality. “We see the world from a very ‘equal rights’ perspective, and so can both be disheartened by people’s [negative] reactions to things. … It’s really nice to go though this with a man who shares the same beliefs that I do.” “The LGBT community has been really kind to us,” Gabby says “in terms of fans
and support for our art. As a result, we are adamant about giving back, and that means performing wherever we can; doing festivals, doing different charity events. That’s just a really important aspect for us.” Smoke Season’s new EP is available July 29 from iTunes, while the music video for Badlands has been out since July 1. For more, visit ...
USA | Politics
Sports | Northern Ireland
Interview | Conchita Wurst
The Frances Winston chats to the newlycrowned Queen of Eurovision about love, equal rights and Ireland
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Phoenix Takes
Flight
Interview | Conchita Wurst
To say that Conchita Wurst has become an international phenomenon is a bit of an understatement. In a few short months, she has gone from being a somewhat controversial drag artist in her native Austria, to a superstar on a world platform, whose fans include the legendary Cher and Sir Elton John. The reason for this sudden change in her fortunes is, of course, her spectacular win at this year’s Eurovision Song contest, where she quite literally ran away with the voting for her soaring ballad, Rise Like a Phoenix. She initially attracted attention for her unconventional look, but when it turned out that she actually could really sing, and wasn’t just a novelty act, the audience were in the palm of her hand. She then became the unofficial Queen of Eurovision during the contest.
into Dublin’s Dylan Hotel, it quickly becomes apparent that she is warm, funny and grounded, which is a relief. In the flesh, she looks even more striking than she does in photos – all sinewy and slender, with hypnotic eyes and a beautiful smile. Looking impossibly glamorous, in a sequinned skirt, black spaghetti strap Basque, a fur trimmed wrap, and stunning two-tone embellished stilettos that would leave Carrie Bradshaw green with envy, she took time out to pose with fans and guests in the hotel. However, she did seems disappointed with the somewhat cool Irish weather commenting “I thought it was supposed to be summer!” The reason for her visit to our shores was to perform in one of Dublin’s premiere gay hotspots, The George, fulfilling a promise she had made way back in November. On appearing there on that occasion, she said she
would come back if she won Eurovision to thank them for their support, and true to her word, she managed to cram a flying visit into her extremely busy schedule. Talking to her it’s clear that the backing she received in Ireland meant a lot to her. “It means very much to me to be here again,” she exclaims, “Ireland supported me before all this happened and is very special to me. They supported me without the Eurovision win, and without really knowing who I am, and they supported me and believed in me. Because now I have many ‘friends’ , but they were there at the start.” Since her win, Conchita has become something of a symbol for equality in the LGBT community. However, her appearance still seems a cause of confusion to some who are unsure how to address her. She drew a lot of comparisons with 1998
Personally, I have been a supporter since day one, and I thought that the song was easily one of the best in the contest. When the opportunity to meet her recently arose, I got very excited. However, I was worried that all this success may have turned her head. After all, given all the attention that has suddenly come her way she could be forgiven if she had developed diva-esque tendencies. However, when she arrives EILE Magazine 11
Interview | Conchita Wurst winner, Dana International, who was famously transgender. However, she is keen to stress that underneath the Conchita persona, she is a gay man.” “I’m not a transgender person. You must not mistake that because we are drag artists, and it is fun and glitter or whatever, and being a transgender person is a serious life long thing. I always say what you see is what you get, so if you’re looking at Conchita you should say Conchita, and Tom when its Tom, but I like to be a very lazy boy at home.” Clearly enjoying the fact that she now has a worldwide platform in which to raise issues she acknowledges: “I know that I am quite political with all the things I say and do, but I really just talk about human rights. I am a member of the gay community and, don’t get me wrong, I don’t
forget where I came from. But I don’t want to focus just on the gay community. But of course when it comes to Russia my focus is on the gay community. But it’s just me saying what I believe in”. “Of course I am thinking about having a foundation or something, and I really need to do something to raise money for causes, but these are all future plans. They are things in my head and down the line. For now I will just keep saying what I think.” Obviously what she thinks also extends to marriage equality, and she gets extremely excited when asked about it saying: “Love is love you know. Why do we even have to talk about it? For me a perfect world would be one where we don’t have to talk about a person’s sexuality or the colour of their skin. We shouldn’t have to do
it. And I’m not a politician and I don’t know how long it takes to put these things through but for me it would be like ‘just do it’.” Her anthemic song has been a huge worldwide hit – including in countries that don’t have a great track record for their treatment of the LGBT community, an irony that isn’t lost on Conchita. “I’m happy about that. During the final – not on the night but afterwards - in the breakdown we saw that the audiences in those countries had given me votes, but the juries didn’t like it. But hey we won. And I think it’s big sign for politicians that may be the public is not that OK with their laws.” Passionate and engaging and with a wisdom far beyond her 25 years, Conchita could clearly run for office herself, but for now, her organic home
EILE’s Jenny Butler (left) and Frances Winston with Conchita in Dublin
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Interview | Conchita Wurst
“For me, a perfect world would be one where we don’t have to talk about a person’s sexuality or the colour of their skin.”
is the stage. Currently taking every opportunity offered to her, she has a schedule that would make most people weep, but she relishes it saying: “Of course I’m tired at the end of a long day but I think I have prepared myself for this life for the longest time, so hopefully my next holiday will be in 2040 or something.” Taking to the stage in The George a couple of hours later, there is no sign of any fatigue. Strutting on in a stunning belted leather dress that shows off her tiny waist and perfect pins, she draws a reaction
from the crowd usually only reserved for gay icons like Kylie or Madonna. Her Eurovision winning song goes down an absolute storm, and when she performs an encore of her “personal favourite” My Heart Will Go On, everyone is singing along (until the high notes of course!) There is no denying her vocal chops. In or out of drag, and with or without the beard, this woman is talented. Far from being the novelty act that some people initially wrote her off as, she
definitely seems to have what it takes to gain longevity in her career. Here in Ireland, we’ll continue to support her, if reactions on the night are anything to go by.
Want more? listen to our EILE podcast interview with Conchita Wurst.
EILE Magazine 11
News | Round-Up
LGBT Monthly News Roun US: Pride Day Sees School Principal Come Out
Vincent C. Gray, a Democrat, and David Catania, a council member who is openly gay, as he made his announcement. He also said that the Mayor’s leadership and support of LGBT issues gave him the courage to come out stating:
Senator David Norris Joins Gay Switchboard Ireland in Dublin Pride
“Mayor Gray, I want to say publicly for the first time, because of your leadership, care and support, that I am a proud gay man who just happens to be the principal of Wilson High School”. A high school principal who said he “hid in the shadows for 50 years” told his students he was gay at a Pride Day assembly on Wednesday. The principal of Wilson High School in Washington DC, Pete Cahall,was visibly emotional as he told his students that he was inspired by them to come out openly about his sexuality. “A few weeks ago I turned 50 years old. This was a watershed time for me and you have influenced what I would like to announce today. I have hid in the shadows for the last 50 years. Your leadership has given me the courage and inspiration to say what I need and must say today”. Cahall stood beside DC Mayor 14 EILE Magazine
Students cheered as Cahall made his announcement, and he was praised by Gray for showing example to his students. Council member Catania also commended him and said: “I think this is the most important lesson that these students will learn this year”. MKB/Eile
Senator David Norris, one of Ireland’s most respected politicians and LGBT rights advocates, participated in this year’s Dublin Pride Parade alongside Gay Switchboard Ireland, the oldest LGBT community support organisation in the country. Volunteers from Gay Switchboard were on board a special bus to mark the 40th year of the service. In recognition of the input that he had on the formation of the service in 1974, Senator David Norris joined the Gay
News | Round-Up
nd-Up Switchboard volunteers on board the bus in the parade. Director of Gay Switchboard Ireland, Maria Keogh, said that ‘it is an honour for Gay Switchboard to have [had] David Norris on board to help mark 40 years of volunteer commitment to the LGBT community’. Originally called Tel-AFriend, and founded in 1974, Gay Switchboard has been a constant support for the LGBT community throughout the past 40 years of great social change, providing confidential telephone support & signposting to the LGBT community. Ireland’s oldest LGBT support service is open 7 days a week, answering in excess of 2,700 calls each year, and is staffed entirely by trained volunteers. Senator Norris has been vocal about his support for the service: “The work of Gay Switchboard is extremely important. There is still a level of fear and shame as well as confusion for young people around the country discovering they may be LGBT. It is a wonderful and humanitarian gesture to lend a comforting ear to those in distress. It is also a great privilege”.
Denmark: LGBT Community Celebrate “The World’s Best” Trans Recognition Law
Yesterday was a historic day for Denmark’s LGBT community, as the Danish Parliament passed legislation that puts the country in top position for trans rights. From now on in Denmark, a person can legally change their gender six months after he or she has applied to have it recognised. Folketinget, the Danish Parliament, voted by 59 votes to 52 to pass the new legislation, which is a milestone for trans* rights in Europe and the world.
The Danish national LGBT organisation, LGBT Danmark, warmly welcomed the news from Christiansborg, the home of the national government. Speaking to Danish newspaper Berlingske Tidende, the organisation’s chairperson, Søren Laursen, said that the result will be very positive and practical for the daily lives of transgender people living in Denmark: “We have looked forward to this very day for a long time,” said Laursen. “The law that has been passed is completely fantastic. It is just what we could have wished for.” Laursen also said that the passing of such a law means that LGBT people as a whole are being included in law making, and, therefore, LGBT Danes are becoming better integrated into Danish society. “This is the world’s best law,” praised Laursen. “There is only one other country in the world, [which is] Argentina, where the situation is similar. […] A law that says that it is you who decides which gender identity you wish to have registered.” Tusind tak til Homotropolis for tippen.
EILE Magazine 15
Fashion | Menswear
Dressing For The All-Imp
Mark Graham has some great m The past week we have all experienced Dublin’s gay pride. But before that even kicked off, we had a number of weddings within the LGBT community. So with all of these warm days and long nights, it can only mean one thing – wedding season is upon us.
When it comes to picking an outfit for a friend or relative’s big day, it’s hard for a woman to get it wrong. All she needs to do is pick a dress – typically a figure-flattering A-line number featuring this season’s musthave print – that adheres to the following guidelines: nothing white, too low-cut or short. A cardigan, courts and fascinator/wide-brimmed hat are typically added as finishing touches.
For men, it’s a totally different ball game. For decades we’ve been socialised into thinking that a dark suit, understated tie and starched white shirt should be the go-to pieces. Though this is fine, if a little predictable for a winter event, a summer do offers more opportunity to showcase your individuality. By planning ahead and shopping smart, you’ll save time and stress, and may even add a couple of new versatile pieces to your wardrobe.
L-R: Suitsupply, Reiss When imagining a city wedding, it’s hard not to think of the iconic moment when Prince William nervously stepped out of his Bentley by the steps of Westminster Abbey back in April 2012. Though your mate might not be marrying Kate Middleton, nor wearing a red and gold Irish Guards mounted officer’s uniform before a billion eyes, it’s still important to make an effort to create an ensemble that looks sharp and refined.
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Dressing for a city service is relatively easy because you should simply be looking to transform a timeless base with more adventurous accessories. Start by selecting a classic blue or grey suit in a mid-weight material – this type of fabric
Fashion | Menswear
portant Summer Wedding
menswear tips for the big day out
offers versatility that lighter versions can’t. A subtle checked version is not out of the question, so long as it doesn’t make too much of a statement – you don’t want to overshadow the groom’s big day. However, leave pinstripes for the office. Key brands to consider include the usual mid-priced go-tos – Suitsupply, Reiss, Charles Tyrwhitt, T.M.Lewin and J.Crew – along with a couple of high street names: M&S and Next. The craftsmanship and quality of the fabric for the price is often unbeatable (try Marks’ Savile Row-inspired collection), while a good tailor will take care of any final alterations. The jacket can be left off if the venue’s uncomfortably toasty – this is where a threepiece really comes into its own – or can provide a much-appreciated extra layer if the air-con is set a little too high.
L-R: New Look, Massimo Dutti Fruit-filled jugs of Pimm’s, the smell of a suckling pig roasting above a glowing open fire and uninterrupted views of rolling hills are just some of the many perks of being invited to a wedding in the countryside. A country wedding tends to have a more relaxed feel, meaning a suit isn’t necessarily required. Blazers and sports coats achieve the right balance
between smart and casual, and will provide warmth long after the late afternoon sun has gone down. Block shades of blue, burgundy or cream are undeniably dapper, and can be incorporated into any smart-casual wardrobe after the big day. For a heritage feel, consider earth-tones, herringbone/check styles or, if the weather is inclement, a tweed-blend version.
Continued… EILE Magazine 17
Fashion | Menswear Thanks to our rather unpredictable and often depressing climate, there’s been a rise in the number of couples ditching our emerald isle to tie the knot abroad. Promising hours of sunshine and a laid-back atmosphere, it comes as no surprise that places such as the South of
France, Croatia and Italy have all become popular wedding destinations. Careful planning beforehand is advisable though – it’s highly unlikely you’ll find a Zara in an ancient town when you realise you’ve left something at home. A humid climate calls for shirts made of lightweight linen
or cotton-blends. White is advisable for many reasons: it’s smart, offers the possibility of making a statement with other items of clothing, doesn’t show creases as badly as darker shades and, perhaps most importantly, will keep you cooler in the midday sun.
L-R: El Burgues, Ducamp
When dressing for any wedding, it’s important to bear in mind the location, weather and dress code. You want to appear well-dressed and understated, rather than trying your utmost to steal attention away from your friend or relative on their big day. After all, good manners and social decorum are both key components of the modern gentleman. 18 EILE Magazine
News | Mr Gay Europe
Sweden Takes The Crown at Mr Gay Europe Finals 2014 For the first time in nine years, the title of Mr Gay Europe has returned to a Scandinavian, as Jack Johansson from Sweden won this year’s Mr Gay Europe finals in Vienna last weekend. Jack, a 20-year-old student living in Gothenburg, had been a strong contestant throughout the competition, as well as a favourite amongst the audience. He was joined in the top five finalists by Austria’s Robert Prolic, the
UK’s Stuart Hatton, Denmark’s Christian-Sebastian Lauritsen and Northern Ireland’s Nick Flanagan. Jack may have been the overall winner of the finals over the weekend, but there were other winners as well on the night. Nick Flanagan won the Art Competition category, with striking artwork that challenges hatred, both in terms of sectarianism in the context of Northern Ireland,
and also homophobia and discrimination. Nick also won the Sport Challenge category for the region, while Britain’s Stuart Hatton won Mr Congeniality. Ireland’s Robbie Lawlor, who was interviewed for EILE by Mark Graham before flying to Austria for the finals, got into the Top 5 in numerous categories, including the Written Test, the Photo Challenge and the Online Vote. Both Robbie Lawlor and Nick Flanagan will now go on to represent Ireland and Northern Ireland respectively at the Mr Gay World finals in Rome later this year. EILE is delighted to announce that it is media partner for the 10th Annual Mr Gay Ireland competition, the finals for which will take place in Dublin this coming October. (eile.ie / June 18) EILE Magazine 19
LGBT Parenting | Fostering
Becoming a Foster Carer In the first of our LGBT Parenting series, EILE takes a look at fostering in Ireland Fostering has always had a special place in Ireland, to the point where it is an integral part of Gaelic mythology – Cú Chulainn himself was fostered by King Conchubhar of Ulster. Fast forward a few thousand years, and fostering is just as important in Irish society. In fact, it’s quite possibly more important today, as some 6,500 children are in need of foster care here, and samesex couples and single LGBT people are warmly welcome to step forward. 20 EILE Magazine
Lillian Benson and Paula Kearney are one such couple, who decided to become foster carers a little over two years ago, and got in touch with the Dublin-based agency, Fostering First Ireland. Their decision, they explain to me, was a natural one; “It was something we always wanted to do”, explains Lillian. “We felt we had a lot to offer.” “We come from big enough families,” Paula adds. She agrees with her wife’s explanation that they felt they had more to offer than just a spare bedroom in their home in north County Dublin. “We’ve
been raised well enough, where we had fun growing up. We wanted to be able to give something back, and give other kids that chance.” The experience of fostering is one that Lillian and Paula clearly consider rewarding, but there are children in dire need of foster carers like the Dublin couple. “We just can’t meet the demand [for foster carers] at the moment”, says Barry Ward, fostering advisor at Fostering First Ireland. “It’s a very hard thing to market, though. It’s something you need to be willing to go into it, rather than reacting to [an
LGBT Parenting | Fostering advertisement on] the net”. “You have to be ready,” Paula advises, “because your life totally changes. You’re used to having three or four holidays a year – that goes out the window!” “It’s nearly a vocation”, Lillian adds. Barry explains that for those who are interested in becoming foster carers, the process can be quite strict in terms of requirements. “Only about six to seven percent of people who call [to apply to be carers] actually go on to be approved,” Barry says. “It’s quite strict.” This surprisingly low number, however, is due to the fact that requirements are not met by those who are curious about fostering. For example, a foster carer must be over 25 years of age, and have at least one spare bedroom in their home.
Sometimes it’s just a case of timing, Barry explains, and for many people, applications are welcome when such minimum requirements are met. Being a foster parent is a truly rewarding experience, according to Lillian and Paula. If any challenges arise, though, Barry explains that a strong support system is in place for foster carers, including being able to call FFI for advice. That’s something that biological parents typically don’t have, he adds. One of the main differences with fostering, of course, is that caring for a child isn’t always permanent. The periods of time involved depend on individual cases, and can last from a few weeks to several years. On top of that, and also to prepare for such a system, foster carers must go through extensive and continuous training. Paula does note that fostering is “totally different” to parenting in those aspects, but because such routines
and practices become second nature, it becomes “the norm” for both the foster carer(s) and the child. One could be forgiven, though, for wondering if fostering can be emotionally hurtful, especially if a child moves on to another foster home, or in an “ideal situation”, to be reunited with his/her biological family. Lillian explains that such an experience can be bitter-sweet, there is also a satisfaction in knowing that that child has been made feel safe while in their care, and that the change provides the carer or carers with an new opportunity to help another child, by providing them with stability and care. “No matter what”, Paula explains, “they’re only kids, and all they’re looking for is somewhere safe. That’s what people need to understand”. For more information on fostering, visit http://www. fosteringfirstireland.ie/
EILE Magazine 21
Style | 60s Fashion
Twiggy & Sixties Fashion! Lisa Reynolds takes a look at style in the swinging sixties
Carnaby Street 22 EILE Magazine
Style | 60s Fashion
The sixties were an incredible era for so much iconic fashion, and this decade is one of the most referenced on the catwalk, even now. It is easy to see why. This was the decade which gave us many fashion icons, including Twiggy, whose own idol was Jean Shrimpton. Twiggy was born Lesley Hornby in September, 1949, and was a model from 1965, when she was only sixteen, until 1970. In January 1966, Twiggy’s hair was coloured, and cut short, in Mayfair at The House of Leonard, which was owned by celebrity hairdresser Leonard Lewis, also known as Leonard of Mayfair. A professional South African photographer, called Barry Lategan, took many photographs for Leonard, including some of Twiggy, which the hairdresser hung up in his salon. Deirdre McSharry, who was a fashion journalist for the Daily Express, saw the photographs, and asked to meet Twiggy. McSharry had further photographs taken. A couple of weeks later there was an article in the Daily Express, with the photos, describing Twiggy as “The
Face of ’66.” This was her breakthrough, and after this her modelling career took off. A month later, she was in her first shoot for Vogue, and just a year later, she had featured in 13 fashion shoots in international Vogue magazines. She went to New York in 1967, and this garnered interest from the media. The New Yorker, amongst others, featured the Twiggy “phenomenon”. In 1967, she became a sensation internationally. She modelled in America, Japan and France. She was on the cover of Paris Vogue in May 1967, while she made the cover of US Vogue in April, July and November, and the cover of British Vogue in October. During her career, she was photographed by numerous photographers, including Cecil Beaton, Annie Leibovitz and Richard Avedon. Twiggy was a major face of the sixties, gracing the covers of fashion magazines and one of the first supermodels. She was a trendsetter, and a daring dresser, which has cemented her role as a fashion icon. She worked closely with Mary Quant, who designed the famous mini-dress, and modelled “The Chelsea Look” which Quant also made famous.
Jean Shrimpton sweaters were pieces which Twiggy worked to perfection, while she was also innovative by wearing menswear pieces. She wore large, striped ties paired with waistcoats, men’s hats with mini-skirts, either with fishnet tights or more often with bare legs. Other fashion icons who inspired in that decade were Diana Ross, with her sequinned catsuits, shimmering shift dresses and Diana Ross
Shift dresses and ribbed EILE Magazine 23
Style | 60s Fashion style, which had a sense of being put together with effortless nonchalance. He teamed velvet trousers with military jackets, and accessorized with western hats and Cherokee brooches. Bandanas and scarves were also a big part of his look. He would wear them around his head, or tied around his legs or arms. Fashion inspirations in this decade also included The Beatles, who were at the height of their Beatlemania popularity, and The Rolling Stones.
Jimi Hendrix beehive hairstyle, Mama Cass with her eclectic hippy style, which included oversized prints, long tunics and anklelength caftans, and Janis Joplin with her bohemian
style, which included gilets, fur hats, string vests, and an abundance of bangles. In terms of menswear, Jimi Hendrix had a flamboyant
The Beatles
Beatlemania had taken off, and The Beatles changed the conservative business suit into a more stylish alternative, with a straight, clean cut. As the sixties continued, the band wore more casual pieces, such as turtlenecks, and also wore more colour than they previously had. Other musical and style influences were The Who, and The Doors, with their charismatic and controversial frontman, Jim Morrison. His rock ‘n’ roll perfection included leather trousers, Native American belts, and denim shirts, while his long hair added to the rock mystique. Rolling Stones’ member Brian Jones was also a trendsetter, from his sharp Mod look to his flamboyant peacock style. One of the major trends in the sixties was bell bottoms, which flared out below the knee, finishing below the ankles, while the hippy movement
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Style | 60s Fashion
Jim Morrison & The Doors
brought tie-dye into the fashion mix. Tie-dyed shirts were very popular with young people wanting to express themselves and rebel against political issues, such as the Vietnam War.
Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones
Paisley shirts, mini-skirts and boots were all major staples of the sixties’ wardrobe. Famous designers of this decade included Yves Saint Laurent, Mary Quant, and Oscar de la Renta, whose influences are still to be seen on the catwalk today.
EILE Magazine 25
California Dispatch
Californi
Lessions fro
ALC 2014 Opening Caremony
Rick Watts on taking part in the 545-mile long AIDS LifeCycle (ALC 2014) from San Francisco to Los Angeles The morning was still, dark, and cold as they arrived. Hundreds—then thousands of them; some looking every bit the athletes they had trained to be; others…not so much so, but just as dedicated and hopeful for the journey that lay ahead on the 545-mile AIDS LifeCycle. This is the annual bike-athon from San Francisco to Los Angeles, along the occasional coastal backroads and scenic highways of California. Among the riders (both LGBT and straight) are men, women, young, old (83 is the most ‘senior’ this year) students, blue-collar workers and 26 EILE Magazine
wealthy professionals—even a few pastors and rabbi’s (including my Reverend Dave of Hollywood United Methodist (the “Church of the Big Red Ribbon”). They come from all walks and professions—even a sitting member of Congress this year! (THANK YOU ADAM SCHIFF! If anyone had an excuse to ‘princess camp’ it was you, but you slept in tents, and waited in food and ‘porta-pottie’ lines like everyone else, as you bicycled all 545 miles—YOU ROCK!). For some, this will be their only ride, or a rite of passage. For others, this is an annual
work of love that they will toil in until “AIDS is no more.” Some wore improbablyoutlandish outfits, camouflaging or complementing equally-garish spandex or nylon leggings. The riders’ helmets were personalized with everything from rainbow-colored Roman soldier-style Mohawk attachments, to a nun’s seagull-winged cornette, to even a ‘chicken-lady’…who was neither chicken nor lady, but rather a LONG-time veteran of these rides. Still others were dressed in matching t-shirts reading
California Dispatch
ia Dispatch:
om a Journey “ROADIE” designating them thousand of their comrades, as the support volunteers that friends and families, as the would keep this wonderful honor guard simultaneously mess organized carried high the and safe, and as banners, lovingly comfortable as a autographed and 545 mile bike ride annotated the can be. At least day before, by all As the equal to their who wished, with numbers were the names—hundreds crowd legions of welland hundreds of wishers, joining parted to handwritten names in the cheering as - and dedications. make way their leaders bade them safe travel, As the crowd parted for the courage—and to make way for escorts, much-needed the escorts, hands strength for the joined hands. And hands journey. Then tears fell from eyes joined they all fell silent that had shed many as the music tears; far more tears hands. And changed from than one should raucus energetic tears fell have to, moved by exhortative disco the spectacle of that from eyes tempos to a bike which carried slower, quieter no rider…and that had meter; mournful the visions shed many it evoked for in its tenor as the loudspeaker each person tears announced the of the sibling, approach of the parent, a phalanx of the child, the cyclists carrying neighbor or a very special co-worker, or bicycle—one the friend— which bore no rider. SO MANY friends—that were no longer here with The bike was tenderly, the gathered who had caringly, held upright by other come to the great hall, cyclists, as they slowly walked before embarking in it forward down a gauntlet their memory and honor comprised of some three to continue to fight the
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fight to bring an end to the plague, and in the meantime to give comfort and aid to those who still live with HIV/AIDS, well nigh a third of a century after it began its grim harvest among them. This is why we ride, and volunteer; literally pedaling and working our butt off for this - from San Francisco to Santa Cruz, King City, Paso Robles, Santa Maria, Lompoc, Ventura—and finally Los Angeles a week later: In tribute to loved ones now gone, in support of friends and acquaintances in need, in dedication to helping total strangers whom they will never meet, and to hopefully help eventually make this a world without AIDS, by raising tens of millions of dollars per year,
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California Dispatch to fund the life-giving services provided by the Jeffrey Goodman Special Care Clinic of the Los Angeles Lesbian and Gay Center, and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. Despite the recent rollout in the United States of the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”), America’s first serious attempt to finally join the rest of the modern world in providing universal healthcare as a right, has serious flaws. Thanks to deeply-entrenched and wellconnected special interests and prejudices (and self-serving, self-dealing politicians with instincts more finely-tuned to self-preservation than to serving the common good of the common person) there are still millions of us who “fall between the cracks” and the patchwork of increasinglytattered social safety nets that are supposed to prevent “the least among us” from falling into penury, or homelessness, because we happen to get sick.
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Among those prejudices, homophobia, racism, and xenophobia conspired to allow HIV to become the pandemic it did, because it chiefly, initially, afflicted those at the bottom of our social pecking order, as defined by those prejudices.
” Among those prejudices, homophobia, racism, and xenophobia conspired to allow HIV to become the pandemic it
did, because it chiefly, initially, afflicted those at the bottom of our social pecking order, as defined by those prejudices. So it was that, with gay men being banned from any sort of legal recognition as deserving of loving relationships, our sex lives were for so long stunted twisted apparitions of what might be; spurned by families who, at least for their straight children and siblings, otherwise encourage and nurture stable, monogamous relationships that are safe harbors of sexual expression in a sea of STDs, and a shelter from the storms of singlehood. Such relationships, together with another human being to give mutual support, helps to build a life of love, stability, prosperity and opportunity. For too many of us, the time before marriage equality was one of tricks, one-night stands, and—for those who had nowhere else to turn—’survival sex’ simply to keep body and soul together, food in the belly, an occasional roof over one’s head, or to support drug habits that numbed the pain of rejection and homelessness. LGBT persons are thus far less likely than our married heterosexual fellow Americans to have access to health insurance which, in this country is still (ACA reforms notwithstanding) provided chiefly by employers—or through the employer of a person’s legal spouse or parents. This is one of the many very important reasons why marriage equality matters!
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California Dispatch Likewise, non-whites (who, due to the echoes of historical prejudice and discrimination manifesting in lack of economic and educational opportunity, are also therefore more likely to be poor) continue to have less access to affordable, competent, effective healthcare, and the screenings that are a necessary component to any good health plan. And don’t even get me started on the deliberate denial of access to government-funded care for the twelve million men women and children living in this country, whose only crime was seeking a better life for them and their children than the one of poverty, violence or discrimination they left behind in their homeland. Over the protests of (most) Democrats, Republicans managed to hold even the very modest reforms of the ACA hostage to their demands, that undocumented persons be written out of ‘universal’ coverage. So much for ‘compassionate conservatism.’ So much for the GOP’s muchvaunted ‘family values’ where even children are thrown off the bus, by Republican’s selfaggrandizing pandering to worst instincts and prejudices, combined with a desire to prove that ‘government can’t do it’ by breaking and underfunding government, so that it cannot perform its most basic responsibilities to its citizens. And so it is that events like the AIDS Lifecycle still exist: Because they MUST exist, because lives depend on their 30 EILE Magazine
success, and the good will of those who give of their time, their labor, and their hardearned money, to ensure that success; that the need that is still there is met; that the work that must go on…can still go on, serving those with, or atrisk for HIV/AIDS. By the time American President Ronald Reagan could bring himself to publicly utter the word ‘AIDS’, more of his countrymen had died of it than in our entire involvement in the Vietnam War. These are the children of poverty, of oppression, of prejudice, of greed. They are our brothers and sisters. They are our sons and daughters. They are our neighbors, our friends, our co-workers. They go to church or synagogue or mosque with us, or sit beside us on the bus or in the movie theatre. They serve us our fast food. They clean our toilets and mow our lawns. They stretch out their hand for help in the form of the homeless youth whose eyes we try to avoid and forget. And sometimes… sometimes…we fall in love with one. For they are also our lovers—and now, perhaps, our spouses. Most importantly, though, they are our fellow human beings. It is for them that we ride—and work to support the riders, so that they can focus on…well…riding, to justify to their donors the $15 million dollars that were raised this year. Don’t get me wrong—the Ride is a lot of fun too! But it’s
hard work! DAMNED HARD WORK! And it’s a mess. A damned, big, moving threethousand-strong tent city of a mess. What a beautiful mess, though! And worth every minute. It’s been said that if the rest of the world ran this way the other 51 weeks a year, what a wonderful world it would be. As I finish this column, my shoulders, back, hips, knees and one foot still ache from the stooping, carrying, lifting, and bending that I, and my 600 fellow ‘roadies’, did on this, my 8th AIDS LifeCycle. Despite those aches and pains, I’d do it all over again—and I will. I’m already signed up for AIDS LifeCycle 2015! Based in Los Angeles, Rick is an LGBT activist and contributor to the NewsWrap segment of LGBT radio show, This Way Out.
- Rick Watts with Congressman Adam Schiff
Something to look forward to for Pride Month 2015: Introducing the first annual OlaGirls, the Lesbian Mediterranean Getaway. From June 5-7, 2015 you will enjoy concerts, lectures, gastronomy, meetups and sports in Calpe, Alicante, the Costa Blanca in Spain. “Where, do you say?” Calpe, the town that quietly boasts beaches of fine grain sand, turquoise-blue water flanked by a generous boardwalk, and the stunning rock of Ilfac, that helps create the perfect microclimate for sunning and playing by the sea.
OlaGirls in conjunction with Calpe is “the new black”. Just as the term “Orange is the new black” was coined by the female press in the 80’s to distinguish the upcoming fashion, OlaGirls is set to make our 2015 event the first of many not to be missed getaways. OlaGirls and the Calpe government and businesses have partnered to provide 2000 lesbians an unforgettable experience and a destination to return to every Summer.
What are you waiting for? Join us in 2015!
Column | Meditation
The
Frustration of
Meditation Jenny Butler sees the funny side to chilling out Recently, I have been pondering all of the ways in which we strive for the goal of ‘inner peace’. We’ve all been there at some point in our lives; the moment when we search for enlightenment, and try to get a better insight and understanding of ourselves. This happens for various reasons, usually in an attempt to find answers to questions that are frustratingly elusive.
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The thing about inner peace is that everyone has their own definition of it. For some people, it’s when the kids go to sleep and they can relax in front of the television for a few hours. For others, it’s getting out of the city and spending a few days in the country-side. Then there are those of us who decide that perhaps buying a book on the topic, or joining a meditation class, holds the answers we are seeking. Before you enrol in a meditation class, allow me to share with you a few things that I feel you should know in
advance of embarking upon your quest to achieve inner peace: The initial distractions: You’re calm. You’re in the zone. You’ve paid ten feckin’ Euro for this class, so it’s going to work no matter what! Then it happens: the lists begin. Usually, it begins with something like shopping; the few essentials that you might need for the week, and before you know it, you have a list for pretty much everything, from new stationery you’ve
Column | Meditation convinced yourself you need to buy, to the names of all of the people you knew in secondary school, who you’re going to try to find on Facebook, to see if their lives are as chaotic as yours. This process has used up twenty-five minutes of the meditation class, and you’re no closer to finding inner peace than Oprah is to actually retiring from television. The giggles:
that same person lifting weights and loudly sighing and grunting. Yeah, we get it, you can lift heavy things. The thing about the unnecessary sighs at a meditation class is that they sound like the person is having a bit too much of a good time. This can lead to a bout of the aforementioned giggles, but the person doing the unnecessary sighing is never reprimanded, or asked to be a bit quieter! Life is just not fair.
Perhaps it’s the awkwardness of silence, or the fact that you’ve secretly farted. Either way, a grin soon becomes a murmured chuckle, and before you know it, everything is hilarious. Once the giggles take hold, it can be a challenge to stop them! The more you try to control your laughter, the funnier everything seems, and from that day forth you’ll be known as ‘the weirdo who laughed through an entire class that one time’. Unless it’s laughter yoga, that’s totes all the rage at the mo!
Falling asleep:
The nasal whistle:
She has all the latest fashion in meditation gear, including a baby pink exercise mat, that cost her the equivalent of two weeks worth of food and bus fare to you. You’re just a tad bitter, because you bought your mat in a bargain bucket at a shop in town, and it smells like cat urine no matter how many times you wash it.
It sounds like a teeny-tiny baby bird is crying out for help from somewhere. You look around, momentarily perplexed, until you realise that the sound is, in fact, the guy next to you exhaling through his nose. Behold, the infinite annoyance of the nasal whistle, you’ll never achieve inner peace now! The unnecessary sighs: This is like when you go to the gym, and there’s always
You’re looking around the room and you notice that someone is very deep into their meditation. You envy them and plan to ask how they managed to block out nasal whistle guy /and/ unnecessarily loud sigh guy, then you realise that they’re actually asleep. You wonder if there is a version of cow tipping for humans, but manage to restrain yourself. The girl with the designer exercise mat:
She rolls her mat up nicely, and it has those fancyschmancy sewn-on Velcro straps that hold it in place, and double as a handle to carry it.
You’re trying to bundle yours up to fit in a Quinnsworth bag that you’ve had for over fifteen years, because things were made to last in those days, and your mother always said to hold onto things because you never know when you might need them. You exchange polite glances as you leave the class, but secretly, you’re plotting ways to buy the newest on-trend mat before she does, and when you do, it will be FLOURESCENT. In your face, expensive exercise mat girl! Arriving late: This is quite the faux pas, even on a dull, rainy winter evening in Dublin. By the time you shimmy across the floor with your soggy shoes making you sound like Spongebob Squarepants when he walks, the embarrassment is almost enough to make you want to leave. However, you’ve already disturbed the entire class by swanning in late and disrupting the harmonious group, like a water spout in a sea of tranquillity, so you can’t just leave. You nod politely to the few people who look somewhat sympathetic, proceed to find a space to sit and secretly hope that someone else is going to walk in the door after you, so that your lateness will be overshadowed by their super-lateness. Win!
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Column | Meditation Closing your eyes: To close you eyes or not to close your eyes, that is the question. If you close them, you’re suddenly more vulnerable to becoming a climbing frame for the rogue spider that has been hanging off the window sill in the room, but if you don’t close them, you might not find inner peace. It’s quite the conundrum! Then there’s the awkward moment when you realise you’ve made eye contact with the only other person in the room who also hasn’t closed their eyes and you’re now stuck in a situation where you don’t want to be rude, so you engage in some kind of mix between blinking and awkwardly
smiling, before finally realising they might think you’re having some kind of fit, so you had better stop. Hopefully, the aforementioned gems of information will be of some use to you if you join a meditation class, but before I finish this article, I’ll let you in on a secret: a healthier lifestyle for mind, body and spirit, or whatever you believe it is that makes you a happy individual, actually comes from within. Corny, right?
Perhaps the answers to those questions aren’t meant to be found, until you reach a certain point in your life, but there is certainly something to be said for taking time out to relax and take stock of everything that is going on.
If joining a meditation group helps with that, then great, but But it is so very true. You I feel that there should at least can attempt to run 5K in five be a warning: “The path to minutes, spend half of your inner peace may be paved with salary on all the self-help books nasal whistles”. in Eason’s, or start chugging down shots of carrot juice like Bugs Bunny on a bender,
“…you realise that they’re actually asleep. You wonder if there is a version of cow tipping for humans, but manage to restrain yourself.”
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but until you realise the root cause of your unhappiness and address it, so that you can become happier in yourself, you won’t get very far.
News | Canada
Ontario: First Elected Female & Openly Lesbian Premier In what can only be described as a double first in Ontario, Canada, just before their hosting of WorldPride (starting on June 20th) the first female premier, who also happens to be openly lesbian, was elected. This is also a first for the Commonwealth.
Kathleen Wynne (aged 61) the Liberal leader, emerged as a clear winner for premier on Thursday last, after an electorate of over 13 million people cast their votes, making her the 25th Premier of Ontario.
The election results led to the resignation of Tim Hudak, leader of the Progressive Conservatives, and yet even a former Conservative premier, Ernie Eves, has said on television that Kathleen Wynne is a “decent person”.
Comparisons have been made with Iceland’s Jóhanna Sigurdardóttir, who was the world’s first lesbian Prime Minister, but the Globe & Daily Mail point out that Iceland has a relatively small population, whereas Ontario has roughly 13.5 million people.
Ms Wynne lives with Jane Roundwaite, whom she married in July 2005, and has three children. (MBK/Eile - June 14)
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Scott De BuitlĂŠir chats to the London-based singer about his fundraising work and his latest album
Interview | Paul M
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Interview | Paul M
Paul M is a singer with an unusual story, and with good intentions, which make him all the more interesting. I chat with him on the phone from London, where he works as a teacher during the week, but music has been something close to his heart since he was a schoolchild. In a strange way, his musical journey has come full circle, as his interest in singing was sparked off when he, and five fellow pupils, recorded a charity single. Today, he hopes that people will listen to his album, Covers, which raises funds for Cancer Research UK.
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For a young boy, growing up and dealing with his feelings, his emotions and his sexuality, it was a real delicate age for me. I carry my Mum with me all the time.
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Paul’s voice is well-trained; mature, sweet and versatile, which means that he can put his own style on covers of songs by the likes of Adele, George Michael and Gary Barlow. The decision to use the album to raise funds for Cancer Research UK was an easy one, as Paul’s mother lost her battle with cancer when he was just fifteen. Years later, Paul explains that the loss of his mum at such a young age still has an effect on him to this day. “When you lose your mum,” he explains, “or any parent, at such a young age, you carry that with you… For a young boy, growing up and dealing with his feelings, his emotions and his sexuality, it was a real
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Interview | Paul M delicate age for me. I carry my Mum with me all the time.” “This is the first time in my life I feel I can do it without being overemotional about it,” Paul explains. This is where he is most humble about what he is doing. Despite his talents, Paul thinks that while some people may not like his music, he acknowledges that the fundraising element is still something most can respect. The truth, however, is that his vocal talents are well able to stand alone, independent of any charitable intentions. The positive reactions he has received from audiences at his gigs stand as testament to that. Paul jokes about the gig he did at the King’s Arms pub in Soho, the first gig he did at a gay bar. “[It was] actually the most nervous I had been in such a long time,” Paul reminisces, “because it’s kind of like the first time you look in the crowd and you think ‘oh, I quite fancy that person, or he’s pretty hot!
It’s different to what I’ve done in the past, where I’m just performing. It really adds an edge and I absolutely loved it.” “A lot of people have been overwhelmingly supportive,” Paul explains, appreciating the positive experience from the gay community, as he humbly calls himself “a small fish in a massive ocean”. While he hopes to bring out an original-content album soon, Paul hints that the next album may be another collection of covers to get his name out there further, having recently been in talks with a music producer to discuss his next move. Either way, Paul’s journey so far has been nothing if not interesting, noble and full of potential. Paul M’s début album, Covers, is now available from iTunes and Bandcamp. For more information, visit his Facebook page.
Paul M (far left) with fellow bandmates in The Take That Experience
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Music | Mister Ebby
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Opinion | Transphobia
Transphobia And The Need For A United LGBT Community Rob Buchanan takes a look at transphobia and
discrimination in light of TENI’s report launch last month Ireland is making international headlines over our unacceptable slowness in adopting transphobic hate crime legislation. A report from Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) and the University
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of Limerick urges swift legislation to protect Trans people. TENI hope the report ‘Stop Transphobia and Discrimination’ (STAD) will be an important step towards a healthier relationship with the Gardaí and public authorities. Trans people are particularly vulnerable to abuse and hate crimes. They are also some of the most reluctant to report incidents, given an understandable distrust of authorities, who often fail to
even recognise their preferred gender, tantamount to being like the very abusers they are supposed to protect the trans community from. Some frightening statistics in the report show there were 32 incidents reported in 2013, 15 of them designated as hate crimes against trans individuals. A staggering 88% of trans people, whose experiences were included in STAD, reported being subjected to verbal abuse; 6%
Opinion | Transphobia
had been the subject of sexual harassment; 28% had suffered threats of violence, with 19% being the actual victims of assault. One of the many paradoxes of the problem is that of visibility. Even as many LGB people wilfully ignore our trans brother and sisters, their fledgling bids for freedom make them ever more visible to the heterosexual world, subjecting them to a discriminating and often confrontational public.Without protection from the law , trans people are effectively thrown to the dogs, their abusers allowed to commit hate crimes with impunity. But it’s not just the conscious efforts to hurt which cause pain, it’s the casual ignorance. It’s the ridicule and abuse leveled at the trans woman doing her shopping, the trans man going for a job interview. Or the trans children having the added pressures of their identity being erased, even as they cope with the agony of puberty and school. Is it any wonder, when grotesque representations of trans women being played for laughs in Irish “comedies” can be passed off as acceptable? Or when the Irish legal system fails to allow for acceptable gender recognition? Ireland has the shameful claim to fame as one of the few western
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If you think that you can have equality as a gay man or a lesbian woman, when trans people are being routinely treated like animals and outcasts, then think again.
countries with inadequate and non-existent hate crime legislation. As a united community, we need to give a greater forum to Trans people and Trans voices. It’s too easy to leave our trans folk trailing behind as the LGB people make greater and greater steps. If you think that you can have equality as a gay man or a lesbian woman, when trans people are being routinely treated like animals and outcasts, then think again. Authentic freedom to lead authentic lives needs to be guaranteed to all LGBT people. None of us will be free until all of us are free. Rob Buchanan is a writer based in Dublin – follow him on Twitter at @ RobLooseCannon.
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Music | GANGS
Hanging with GANGS
GANGS, the Dublin four-piece rock ‘n’ roll band, are Jordan Curtis, Dan Smith, James Connolly, and Jonny Halpin. Forming in 2012, the band already have a number of impressive performances behind them, including Other Voices in both Dingle and 42 EILE Magazine
Derry, opening for the likes of Palma Violets and headlining the prestigious ‘Ones to Watch’ festival in Dublin. They have also performed at the popular Dublin Castle venue in London’s Camden Town. Tell us a bit about the band and how you guys got together. Jordan: “We all grew up in Tallaght and hung around together. We were all into
music and some of us were in bands. We’re all into the same stuff, same fashion and same artists. It was only natural really that we came together to form GANGS. Your music already seems to have quite a unique and timeless quality to it, who has influenced the songwriting and music production? Are the two separate, or do they come together at the same time?
Music | GANGS James: “It all comes together, sometimes I’ll put down a riff and we’ll build from there. Mostly Jordan starts the process, but we don’t have a set pattern, its kind of a meeting of minds when we jam together”. Johnny: “Something special happens (laughs). Dan: “We’re working with Brian Foley from The Blades at the moment, which has been a good experience musically - we’re learning a lot”. You’ve played from Derry and Dingle to Brighton and Camden; what stands out in your minds when you’re about to perform live? Jordan “For me anyway it’s all about the energy in the air. I feed off the crowd and they dig the music. It’s an energetic performance we put in, and the songs are upbeat, so when it comes off right our shows tend to be fairly high octane”. Dan: “We’re at home on the stage, for us it’s all about the live performance. We get a real kick out of it, and enjoy hangin’ out with GANGS supporters afterwards”. Johnny: “We’re all just looking forward to getting out there and getting on the big stages around the UK and Ireland. Everyone says our
sound is suited for a large stage, and that fits in with our goals of big city tours” You’ve recently been signed to a record label, and now the band has some interesting links to Coldplay! Tell us a bit more about this. Jordan: “We’re working with Reekus Records for our debut EP. They’ve worked with a lot of top acts from Ireland, so we’re delighted to have them on board. James: “Yeah, there’s a UK team we’re working with that launched Coldplay, and a few other top names. It’s great, we feel like we have the right team around us here, and in the UK, to really get our music out there”. Where next for GANGS? “Next up we’re playing a few festivals and gigs, but mainly focusing on the EP which is out in September. This is our first real launch with proper support, so we’re looking forward to it”. And best of luck to them. GANGS are available to listen to on SoundCloud – visit them here.
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News | Uganda
US: Obama Restricts Ugandan Entry For LGBT Abusers And Cuts Funding The Obama Administration has decided to bring in new measures to try to combat LGBT abuse in Uganda, in particular, because of the recent AntiHomosexuality Act.
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According to White House personnel Grant Harris and Stephen Pomper: “…the enactment of the AHA is more than an affront to the LGBT community in Uganda — it calls into question the Government of Uganda’s commitment to protecting the human rights of all its people, and complicates our bilateral relationship.
After thorough consideration, the U.S. government is taking a number of actions to underscore the critical importance we place on human rights and fighting against discrimination, protecting vulnerable populations, respecting freedom of expression and association, and advancing inclusive governance.
News | Uganda
In particular: Restricting entry to the United States. “We want human rights abusers, worldwide, to know their misdeeds are not unnoticed and wouldbe human rights abusers to understand that there are consequences for engaging in such actions. The State Department is therefore taking steps consistent with its current authorities (including Presidential Proclamation 8697) to restrict the entry into the United States of specific Ugandan individuals involved in serious violations or abuses of human rights, including those determined to have committed such violations or abuses against LGBT individuals. While we will not identify the individuals whom we have watch-listed in line with confidentiality requirements, this step makes clear our commitment to sanctioning individuals determined to have perpetrated human rights abuses or who are responsible for such acts in the future. In addition, the United States will also take steps consistent with current authorities to restrict entry into the United States by Ugandans who are found responsible for significant public corruption.
“ We want human rights abusers, worldwide, to know their misdeeds are not unnoticed and would-be human rights abusers to understand that there are consequences for engaging in such actions. ”
Ceasing support for Uganda’s community policing program. We are very concerned about the extent to which the Ugandan police may be involved in abusive activities undertaken in the name of implementing the AHA. These concerns relate to the April 3 raid on a U.S.-funded public health program at Makerere University, as well as credible reports of individuals detained and abused while in police custody. Therefore, even as we continue to press the police at every level to fulfill their responsibility to protect all Ugandans, we will also be discontinuing a $2.4 million program in support for the Uganda Police Force community-policing program.” There are further actions which the White House has taken to show that the Ugandan government is considered to have taken a step backwards in regard to human rights, including cancelling military and police invitations, and military and intelligence engagements. MKB/Eile
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Reviews | Frances Winston
Begin Again Directed by: John Carney - Starring: Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo, Hailee Steinfeld, Adam Levine, James Corden, CeeLo Green, Catherine Keener This film was always going to be scrutinised, seeing as it marks Once director John Carney’s follow up to that hugely successful movie. Again he has stuck with a musical theme, and while it may have a bigger budget and bigger names than his first movie, he has tried to maintain the kind of charm that endeared Once to audiences worldwide. Knightley plays Greta, a songwriter, who is nursing a broken heart after her pop star boyfriend, Dave (Levine) cheats on her while on the road. While singing one of her songs in a New York bar, she is spotted by washed-up record producer Dan Mulligan (Ruffalo) who is having problems of his own, dealing with a temperamental teenage daughter (Steinfeld), living in a grotty apartment, and having been fired by his label.
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He hears something in Greta’s music, and attempts to get his former label to sign her. They agree to consider it if they can hear a proper demo. With no budget for studios, Dan decides to use the city as her studio, and the pair, along with a motly crew of musicians, embark on a journey to make an album that is a love song to the city. When I heard Knightley was going to do her own singing in this I shuddered, but her voice is OK if a bit thin. However, she is a difficult actress to warm to, which does affect how much you root for her character. Ruffalo, on the other hand, is brilliant as Dan, whose talent as a producer is matched only by his propensity for self-destruction. He really embodies the character, and it is his character’s passion that really drives this movie. Along the way there are some decent cameos. Levine is OK as Greta’s wayward boyfriend, and CeeLo Green basically plays a version of himself. James Corden does his usual cheeky chappie turn as Greta’s friend Steve,
while Catherine Keener is solid as always playing Dan’s ex-wife Miriam. However, the real stars here are the songs, and they have already won awards. They are all very sweet and pleasant, and when they are played at full pelt sound catchy enough. There isn’t another Falling Slowly here, but they are unlikely to offend anybody. The cinematography is also beautiful and New York looks amazing, although I would question some of Carney’s editing choices. I enjoyed this film far more than I expected to. It doesn’t really take you on a roller coaster ride of emotion, but it does leave you with a smile on your face. There are some rather contrived plot points, but on the whole this is a solid second offering from Carney, and if he can build on this with his forthcoming movie Sing Street, he could well have a long and prosperous career as a writer/director ahead of him. In Cinemas July 11th
Reviews | Frances Winston
Frances Winston on Movies Directed by: Ben Falcone Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Susan Sarandon, Allison Janney, Toni Collette, Sandra Oh, Dan Aykroyd, Kathy Bates The last time Susan Sarandon appeared in a road movie, it was the phenomenally successful Thelma & Louise, which put girl-power on the map long before the Spice Girls were a twinkle in some record producer’s eye. No doubt Melissa McCarthy had this in mind when she cast her in this offering, which sees the larger-than-life star play the eponymous lead role. She also co-writes and co-produces, as her husband undertakes director duties. All in all, this was a real family affair for her. The story is nothing new. In a bad day to end all bad days, Tammy wrecks her car, gets fired from her minimum wage
job in a burger joint, and discovers her husband cheating on her. Needing to get away but broke, she decides to hook up with her grandmother, Pearl (Sarandon) who has some cash and has always wanted to see Niagra Falls. So the pair take to the road, and along the way there are misunderstandings, high jinks and bonding moments.
usual. (For the record, at 67 to McCarthy’s 43, she is realistically far too young to play her grandmother!) Kathy Bates as Pearl’s cousin, Lenore, is also great, and it is clear the two veteran actresses had a blast working together. With a predominately female cast, this is also doing its bit to infiltrate the male-dominated world of comedy flicks.
McCarthy basically revisits her Identity Thief role here – the loud, brash, overweight, misunderstood outcast. This does start to get tiresome though. She has shown that she has a good acting range in other jobs, but here it is as if she determines to be as loud and vulgar as possible, which is rapidly becoming her screen persona.
This is pretty standard fare that isn’t going to leave any great mark on the comedy landscape, but is an amusing enough way to kill a couple of hours. It has hit and miss moments, but will still entertain and should find a few fans. In Cinemas July 4
She works well with Sarandon though, who seems to relish playing a dowdier role than
Tammy EILE Magazine 47
Music | Nick’s Picks
Nick’s Picks: Music Reviews by Nick Bassett Shipped directly from New Zealand, EILE’s music reviewer Nick Bassett has got the latest high-quality music from artists you should be listening to – right now. Click on any of the art work to take you straight to the sound!
Ryn Weaver - OctaHate
FKA Twigs - Two Weeks
You’ll be forgiven for not recognising the name right now, but get ready for all that to change, thanks to this barnstormingly brilliant debut track from LA/NYC-based singer-songwriter Ryn Weaver.
FKA Twigs is the recording pseudonym of 26-year-old UK singer Tahliah Barnett, whose debut album LP1 will be released to iTunes on 12 August via London label Young Turks, the home of Sampha, Kid Harpoon and The xx.
Produced by Passion Pit’s Michael Angelakos, pop-behemoth Benny Blanco and Norweigian producer and DJ Cashmere Cat, OctaHate is the rich sum of the pedigree enlisted to catapult the youngster to the big time. But it’s Weaver’s vocals that leave the lasting impression, both breathlessly intoxicating and the powerful driving force that keep the track surging onwards and rising above the increasingly crescendoing climax of washing synths and electronic percussion.
Two Weeks serves as the aforementioned record’s lead single and what a powerful introduction to the album it is. This soulful R&B masterpiece showcases the sonically outstanding gravitas of an artist at the top of their A-game, never mind one who’s only just starting out on what is sure to be a long and successful career. And her spellbindingly haunting vocal control is matched equally by her mesmerising physical prowess, as displayed in the track’s recently premiered music video where she embodies a perfectly-poised queen upon a throne, captivating her audience.
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Music | Nick’s Picks Bondax - All I See Bondax are a UK-based production duo comprised of Lancaster-raised gents George Townsend and Adam Kaye, and the emerging beat-makers are already picking up support from the likes of Radio 1 DJs Annie Mac and Nick Grimshaw, thanks to a string of electronic dance releases, that most recently culminated in a killer tropical-flavoured remix of Duke Dumont’s charttopping single I Got U. The pair last month premiered their new single All I See which was written by MNEK and will be released to iTunes on 7 September. Packed full of choice calypso beats, awakening electronic dance grooves and bolstered by the impressive set of pipes of Tanya Lacey, All I See should finally give Bondax the breakthrough chart hit that will propel them to the same levels of success as UK dance peers Clean Bandit, Duke Dumont and Disclosure. Zella Day - East of Eden East of Eden is the latest offering from rising LA-based singer-songwriter Zella Day; a soaring slice of sonic grandeur that arrives off the back of her gloriously woozy singles 1965 and Sweet Ophelia. Whilst retaining the sweeping cinematic style and unfolding musical narrative that punctuated those prior releases, East of Eden is injected with immersive vocals that explode with fiery passion as soon as the almighty chorus kicks in, firmly establishing Zella Day as a significant player in the one-to-watch stakes.
Little Daylight - My Life Having already trailed their upcoming debut album Hello Memory with a string of instantly enjoyable buzz tracks (Siren Call, Love Stories, Mona Lisa), Brooklyn trio Little Daylight this month unveiled the record’s official lead single My Life and it’s the peppiest cut of the lot so far. A striking pop gem perfectly squared for radio, My Life is absolutely loaded with synths, pounding percussion and buoyant lyrics which climax in a big singalong chorus.
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Information and support for women who need someone to talk to
DLL – Phone: (01) 872 9911 (Callback facility available)
Feature | Dublin Lesbian Line
Dublin Lesbian Line Laura Louise gives an insight into the work of this lesbian support service The Dublin Lesbian Line was founded in 1979, stemming from Ireland’s first gay & lesbian telephone helpline, Tel-A-Friend. Gay Switchboard Ireland, as it’s known today, also developed out of the same original organisation, as both it and the Dublin Lesbian Line (DLL) needed to address male- and female-specific issues respectively. Both organisations would have challenges ahead of them, both common and unique to each, yet both have survived to this day. Laura Louise, an events volunteer at DLL, notes in a very matter-of-fact way, however, that there remains an imbalance, in terms of services, catering to the lesbian community in Ireland. This ranges from a lack of support groups, to information regarding sexual health, something which is shocking in
a modern, western society. “If you’re not in Dublin,” Laura explains, “it can be pretty tough”. She’s not kidding. While there are women’s groups like Running Amach, based in Dublin, lesbian social and support groups outside the city are few and far between. The fact that the service has been around since 1979 means that, unbeknownst to itself until recently, it has become a living historical artefact for Ireland’s lesbian community. Last year, the DLL moved to their new offices in Outhouse. During the move, the volunteers uncovered some letters received from women questioning their sexuality as part of the DLL’s letter writing service. “It was really nice to see the community [feeling]”, says Laura. “People would write from all over the country, saying ‘I think I feel this way…’
or ‘Is there anyone I could be in touch with…’”. “[Some] people wouldn’t have [had] house phones,” Laura explains, “and that’s why, to this day, we still have a callback facility”. “It’s really nice to see how it’s progressed over the years,” Laura says proudly, as she explains the changes she has seen take place in DLL since she started volunteering with the service some years ago. She acknowledges that the service was in need of an overhaul in terms of volunteer training and brand management, which seems to have led DLL to a restored glory recently. What has stayed the same throughout the years, however, is the fact that women of all ages still need someone to talk to in times of need. This is something that Laura is proud the DLL is able to help out with, whether through their own work, or as part of the recently-founded
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Feature | Dublin Lesbian Line
LGBT Helpline. Laura notes that as society is opening up, especially amongst younger generations, people can be forgiven for assuming that the only topic that callers would discuss is coming out, but that’s not the case. Regardless of how well technology progresses, Laura feels that “nothing will compare” to another person being on the other end of a phone line, willing to listen
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to someone’s problems or concerns.
then we’re giving the same thing we’ve always given”.
People “from all walks of life” have used the service over the years, Laura explains, “calling about all different issues, but the feelings are the same. It doesn’t matter if people are calling you from a phone box, or if they found your number on their iPhone, or if they’re 57 or 17. People are going through very similar things. If you can provide empathy for people,
For more information on the Dublin Lesbian Line, visit dublinlesbianline.ie or call Dublin: 01-872-9911. The Dublin Lesbian Line are always looking for volunteers to help them with callers, and full training is provided. More information on how to help is available on their website.
EILE Magazine 61
HERO?
Dublin Pride | Event Listings
WHO’S YOUR
Our
JULY 28TH - AUGUST 4TH
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www.corkpride.com | info@corkpride.ie
Feature | Cork Pride
Cork LGBT Pride July 27th – August 4th
Celebrating Our Heroes Stephen Spillane writes about the upcoming Cork Pride Festival’s theme for 2014 This year Cork Pride kicks off on July 27th and lasts until August 4th with the Parade on Sunday August 3rd. The Pride Committee have chosen the theme “Celebrating Our Heroes”. We chose this theme as we are on the cusp of a referendum on Marriage Equality, and it is now apt to recognise the sacrifices made by those 54 EILE Magazine
who went before us, and who inspire us to this day by their actions.
So who are some of the heroes that come to mind?
Heroes come in many shapes and sizes. They may be real or fictional, politician or actor, family member or sports star, gay or straight, singer or activist, famous or not. There is no hard and fast rule on what constitutes a hero, as everyone is different.
An obvious one on the Irish LGBT scene is Senator David Norris. Senator Norris was at the forefront of the creation of gay activism in Ireland. By taking the state to court, and fighting the whole way to Europe, Senator Norris ensured that the Government
Feature | Dublin Pride
EILE Magazine 57
Feature | Cork Pride had to decriminalise homosexuality. Since then Senator Norris has been behind so many campaigns for Equality for LGBT people in Ireland, and for that he certainly is one of our Heroes! Another hero is Dónal Óg Cusack. The Cloyne and Cork goalkeeper, and 2 time GAA Allstar, surprised many when he came out in 2009, but has gone on to become a loud voice in the campaign for LGBT Equality, not just in Ireland but across Europe. He famously staged a one-man protest in Moscow against the “Gay Propaganda” laws in Russia. This year his brother Conor also came out, showing the support in Cork GAA for LGBT players. Conor, who has been
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open about his experience of mental health and being a gay man, is another Hero for many. He has managed to bring national attention to these important topics, which should be discussed and not hidden away. Another set of heroes is Senator Katherine Zappone and Ann-Louise Gilligan, who, in 2004, took the state to court to recognise their Canadian marriage. While in the end the case was unsuccessful, it helped bring to the fore the situation for same-sex couples in Ireland, and helped start the long road towards marriage equality, and next year’s referendum! At Cork Pride, we think that we, as a community, need to stand up and ‘Celebrate Our
Heroes’. Let us know who your Heroes are on twitter by tweeting @corkpride with #CelebratingourHeroes and join in our celebrations! Whoever your Heroes are, they deserve to be celebrated, and Cork LGBT Pride is the place to do it! See you in Cork from the 27th July to August 4th for a jam-packed programme of events! For more information on Cork LGBT Pride check out: www.corkpride.com https://twitter.com/corkpride https://www.facebook.com/ corkpride
Feature | Cork Pride
For more information on Cork Pride, visit:
EILE Magazine 57
UK | Sultan of Brunei
UK: Lord Deben Critical of King’s College Refusal To Rescind Award To Sultan Of Brunei
Motto: With Wisdom and Holiness King’s College, London, dishonours its LGBT and female students and alumni, according to the former Conservative Party chairman, Lord Deben, by refusing to rescind the award of Honorary Doctorate in Law, which it bestowed on the Sultan of Brunei in 2011. Lord Deben also called on organisations to refuse to do business with The Dorchester Hotel, as it is part of the Sultan’s chain of hotels. Brunei’s penal code revision was approved by the Sultan in April of this year. The revision allows for death by stoning for homosexual activity, and the law also allows for execution of women found guilty of adultery.
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Benjamin Cohen, the publisher of LGBTI newspaper Pink News, and a former student of King’s College, called for the award to be withdrawn when speaking at a graduation dinner there last weekend. Mr Cohen stated that the Sultan: “has just passed one of the most draconian, awful laws that has been passed on a humans rights perspective in recent years. I hope that as graduates of this university, that you put pressure on the people who run it to say that you cannot give awards to people like that.” However, King’s College refused to withdraw the award, saying that it was given to the Sultan in 2011, for “lifelong commitment to higher
education”, before the new law was enacted, and declined further comment. Mr Cohen’s call has been backed by the student’s union at King’s College, who also wish to see the award being withdrawn. The Dorchester Hotel in London, part of the Sultan’s hotel chain, is where the LGBTI rights organisation Stonewall held its annual dinner last April. King’s College is a public research university, founded in 1829 by King George IV and the Duke of Wellington, and part of the University of London. (MKB/Eile – June 11)
Politics | United Nations
UN Blasted For New Homophobic President UN under fire for promoting Sam Kutesa, defender of Uganda’s homophobic laws
The United Nations has come under fire recently in the wake of their announcement that the incoming President will be Sam Kutesa, a prominent Ugandan politican in favour of his country’s antihomosexuality laws. Mr Kutesa will become the President of the United Nations General Assembly, an influential but largely ceremonial role, from this coming Wednesday, June 11. In his current role as Foreign Minister in Uganda, it fell on Kutesa to defend his government against worldwide criticism, when the Ugandan parliament passed and implemented harsh legislation against LGBT people. In defence of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s signing into law of the AntiHomosexuality Bill, Kutesa stated that “the majority of Africans abhor” homosexuality,
adding that the Ugandan government “shall not accept [its] promotion and exhibition, because we think that is wrong for our young people and it offends our culture”. With a background of such intolerance on Mr Kutesa’s resumé, it isn’t very surprising to find that international human and LGBT rights organisations are not content with the announcement of Kutesa’s upcoming role at the UN. Maria Burnett, an African affairs expert at Human Rights Watch told the Guardian‘s Ed Pilkington that “there are real concerns about Sam Kutesa’s commitment to the values embodied in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, including his defence of Uganda’s profoundly discriminatory anti-homosexuality law”. Mr Kutesa will assume the role of President by acclamation, which means that no vote took place because he was
the only candidate for the year-long position. Despite the circumstances, however, a petition has been posted online, calling on U.S. Secretary of State, John Kerry, as well as all UN members, to protest Kutesa’s inauguration. “[President] Museveni knows rural voters who form the majority are conservative and not educated on issues of LGBT people,” petition author Milton Allimadi wrote on the change.org website. “By demonizing them, [President] Museveni hopes to translate fears into votes. In the process he does not care about the consequences on the safety and lives of LGBT community.” At the time of writing this article, the petition had received over 9,250 signatures. (eile.ie / June 9)
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LGBT | Travellers & Roma
First-Ever Irish Traveller & Roma LGBTQ Posters Launched
Pavee Point, BeLonG To Youth Services and LGBT Pavee today launched the first Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) Traveller and Roma poster. The poster was developed in consultation with Traveller, Roma and LGBTQ youth groups to increase the visibility of LGBTQ Travellers and Roma both in their own communities and in wider society. Speaking at the launch of the poster, John Paul Collins of Pavee Point stated the importance of acknowledging and accepting LGBTQ members of ethnic minority groups in Ireland. “We have long been aware of the taboo around sexuality within the Traveller and Roma communities and this poster
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is an instrumental first step in challenging that taboo and building a greater culture of acceptance for all Travellers and Roma, regardless of their sexuality.” Also speaking at the launch David Carroll, Executive Director of BeLonG To – Ireland’s national LGBT youth service said: “We work with young people who are both members of the LGBT Community, and the Traveller and Roma communities. We see first hand the extreme isolation that they can experience – very often experiencing both racism and homophobia. This poster campaign aims to reach out to these and other young people, their friends, families and communities with a positive and empowering message – that it’s completely ok to be an LGBT Traveller or Roma young person and that if you are – we are here to support you”.
The poster is the result of months of partnership work between Pavee Point, BeLonG To and LGBT Pavee and is the first step in a longer process of inclusion to create national safe spaces and increase dialogue around sexuality in the Traveller and Roma communities. Pavee Point is a strong supporter of LGBTQ rights and the organisation has marched in Dublin Pride for the past five years. This poster launch occurs on the first day of Traveller Pride, a national celebration of Traveller culture and achievement. BeLonG To has been a strong advocate for Traveller and Roma young people’s rights and both organisations have worked to support each other’s initiatives since 2003. (eile.ie / June 16)
History | Edward II
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Ireland | Mental Health
Survey Launched to Explore LGBT Mental Health and Wellbeing in Ireland LGBTIreland is a major new research project exploring the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTI people in Ireland. The confidential and anonymous study has been commissioned by GLEN and BeLonG To Youth Services and is being carried out by researchers from the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Trinity College Dublin. “Social and political attitudes towards LGBTI people have changed enormously over the last 20 years. Huge numbers of LGBTI people are openly living their lives with the support of their families, friends, communities and work colleagues. However, despite this progress we know that LGBTI people still face significant challenges being themselves, including discrimination and harassment, and that this can have a negative impact on their mental health and wellbeing”, said Brian Sheehan, Director of GLEN. 62 EILE Magazine
“Things are changing rapidly for LGBTI young people, as they come out across the country in greater numbers than ever before. This research will allow us to further develop our understanding of being LGBTI, and will guide us in making strategic decisions, uncovering unmet needs, and in many cases, help us discover new ideas for further effective services” stated David Carroll, Director of BeLonG To Youth Service. “Uncovering new information about LGBTI young people is the first step in the process of empowering them in regard to their continued journey towards inclusion across many aspects of Irish society” continued Carroll. “This major survey LGBTIreland, aims to give us a better understanding of the experience of being an LGBTI person in Ireland today. The survey asks LGBTI people about their school or college experiences; any violence or harassment they may have faced; their workplace
experiences and the current state of their mental health and emotional wellbeing” said Professor Agnes Higgins, Head of the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Trinity College Dublin, who is leading the research. “We expect that the survey results will identify priorities for those services that are key to every person’s wellbeing – education, youth, health, policing, and mental health and support services – to ensure that they understand and are responsive to the needs of LGBTI people” said Sheehan. Any LGBTI person, currently living in the Republic of Ireland and aged 14 or over can participate in the survey at www.lgbtireland.net or it can be completed over the phone or by post. The project is being funded by the National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP).
Ireland | Trans Rights
Trans Rights: Revised Bill To Allow Legal Recognition of 16 and 17-Year-Olds Minister Joan Burton TD has published a revised General Scheme of the Gender Recognition Bill yesterday, following Cabinet approval. The new scheme provides a pathway for legal recognition for 16 and 17 years olds. This is an important step forward for the trans community in Ireland and it was welcomed by TENI, whose Chief Executive, Broden Giambrone, was “delighted” at the move, calling it “a step forward to improving the conditions of young trans and intersex people in this country”. During the Committee hearings held in October 2013 in advance of the publication of the bill, this issue of the age of recognition was raised by TENI, BeLonG To Youth Services, LGBT Noise, TransParenCI and other experts who made submissions. All called on the Government to remove the age requirement to
ensure that the rights of young trans people would be protected by new legislation. This was also echoed by the Ombudsman for Children’s Office who published advice late last year calling on the Government to remove the criterion of a minimum age stating, “an absolute exclusion on young people or their parents seeking a Gender Recognition Certificate is a disproportionate interference with young people’s right to gender recognition.” The move to lower the age to 16 is a significant step and will improve the lives of many young trans and intersex people who will be able to obtain legal recognition prior to leaving school and change necessary identification documents. However, the process that is being proposed is onerous. In order to be legally recognised, young people aged 16 and 17 will require parental consent, a letter from the primary treating physician and a court order to access legal recognition. “While TENI warmly welcomes the inclusion of 16 and 17 year olds in the revised General Scheme we are deeply concerned that the process will be too burdensome and
act as a barrier to many young people being able to avail of the legislation,” said Giambrone.”Requiring a court order is particularly troublesome.” Moreover, the legislation still excludes those under 16 and leaves them in a vulnerable position. Without legal protection these young people will be open to discrimination. The Minister has indicated that she supports education guidelines which would address many of these issues. The General Scheme of the Bill will now be referred to the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel for drafting and the bill is expected to be published by Government before the end of 2014. It will then be debated in the Dáil and Seanad. “TENI will continue to advocate for the introduction of inclusive, rights-based legislation that will ensure all members of the trans community can avail of their human rights,” said Giambrone. “TENI will also be actively advocating for the introduction of education guidelines that will support young trans students.” (eile.ie / June 18) EILE Magazine 63
Trans Issues | Hate Crimes
TENI Launch New Report Documenting Hate Crimes Against Trans People TENI launched the STAD: Stop Transphobia and Discrimination Report yesterday at the University of Limerick, launched formally by Tom Lodge, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Limerick. The STAD report documents hate crimes against transgender people in Ireland and is the first report of its kind. A panel discussion, “Understanding Transphobic Hate Crime”, preceded the launch of this important report and addressed hate crimes and transphobia from a number of different angles. Violence and Discrimination Transgender people face elevated levels of violence and discrimination in Ireland. The STAD campaign documented 32 hate incidents, of which 15 were designated hate crimes. Eighty-eight percent 64 EILE Magazine
of respondents experienced verbal abuse or insults, 28% experienced threats of violence, 19% experienced physical violence and 6% experienced sexual harassment. Speaking after the launch, TENI’s Chief Executive Broden Giambrone said: “Trans people, like all Irish people, are striving to live authentic lives and to thrive in society. There is no doubt that Irish society is changing but the violence and discrimination the trans community faces must stop. To change the way that trans people are treated we need to understand the full extent of the problem and look for viable solutions. The STAD report holds a mirror up to Irish society and show[s] us we must be better.” Any crime against a member of the trans community is crime against wider society The panel also featured important and significant contributions from Karl Heller, Garda Superintendent, who
said: “I welcome the opportunity for An Garda Síochána to provide assistance to members of the trans community but I also am keenly aware that such transphobic acts cannot be addressed if we are not made aware. I would encourage all who experience such incidents to inform us by reporting such matters at a local Garda station, to a local LGBT liaison officer or to contact the National LGBT Liaison Officer in GRIDO, Garda Community Relations Bureau.” He went on to say that, “any crime against a member of the trans community is crime against wider society.” These statements on behalf of the Gardaí have wide and welcome implications, particularly in light of the report’s worrying finding that less than half of respondents reported transphobic crimes to the relevant authorities. The Role of Hate Crime Legislation Despite the experiences
Trans Issues | Hate Crimes recorded in the STAD report, transgender people are not expressly protected under any equality or hate crime legislation in the Republic of Ireland.
has led to a situation where we as a society have given a ‘permission to hate’.”
Jennifer Schweppe, codirector of the Hate and Hostility research group at the University of Limerick said:
STAD Project Coordinator Ben Power outlined TENI’s relaunch of the STAD campaign for 2014:
“Ireland is almost unique in western democracies in not having hate crime legislation. The country is coming under increasing pressure from external bodies such as the EU, the Council of Europe and other human rights organisations to introduce legislation which targets hate motivated violence. The absence of such legislation
“Our most important tool in collecting accurate data is awareness. People need to recognise transphobia for what it is and realise that it is always unacceptable. Every person has the right to walk down the street without fear of attack or abuse.”
Relaunching the STAD Campaign for 2014
finding solutions is reporting the problems. This is why we have relaunched the STAD campaign for 2014.” TENI are requesting that organisations and individuals share the report, and to share information about the STAD campaign in 2014. You can find details of this year’s STAD campaign here. (eile.ie / June 19) Click on icon below for TENI
Mr Power continued by saying, “The first step to
TENI’s Chief Executive Broden Giambrone, pictured right
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Dublin Pride A Massive Success
Over 40,000 people took to the streets of Dublin yesterday to take part in a massively successful Dublin Pride parade, which started at the Garden of Remembrance on Parnell Square and finished up at Merrion Square. Many Irish societies, groups and companies took part in Ireland’s second largest festival, second only to the St. Patrick’s Day parade. Amongst those represented were Google, Facebook, the Irish National Teachers Organisation, Sinn Féin, Labour, Fianna Fáil, the Greens, Fine Gael and many, many more. The parade was led by Dublin Pride’s Grand Marshal, Colm O’Gorman, who is also Executive Director of Amnesty International Ireland. Colm was joined in the parade by his husband and two children in a horse-drawn carriage through the city. An impressive and somewhat poignant ‘first’ for the city’s LGBTQ festival was the presence of the music band of An Garda Síochána, whose first song in the march was Pharrell Williams’ ‘Happy’. [Watch the video clip on EILE’s Facebook page]. It was the first time that the Gardaí were actively involved in an Irish Pride festival, although another ‘first’ for the Gardaí took place recently when a uniformed Garda marched in Berlin Pride. For many more colourful photos of yesterday’s Dublin Pride parade, visit our photo album of the event on our Facebook page!
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Photos | Dublin Pride
More photos of Dublin Pride available on our Facebook page. All photos in this article: Scott De BuitlĂŠir
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Ireland | Politics
Fighting With Pride:
Sinn Féin Launch LGBT Rights Policy
Sinn Féin officially launched their policy document on LGBT rights across the island of Ireland today, with party leader Gerry Adams noting that LGBT rights were at the heart of the political party’s republican values. Party president Gerry Adams TD, Pádraig Mac Lochlainn TD, Cllr. Emma Murphy, and Mayor of South Dublin, Fintan Warfield, all spoke at the launch event for the document, Equality, Diversity, Solidarity – Fighting with Pride for LGBT Rights in Ireland, in Dublin this morning. Mr Adams spoke in both Irish and English about the progress made in terms
of LGBT rights over the years in Ireland, but said that there were several challenges that still needed to be met. At the top of Sinn Féin’s ten proposals for LGBT equality in Ireland, was the amendment of Section 37 of the Employment Equality Acts 1998-2011, which the party describes as ‘legalised homophobic and transphobic discrimination’. The party also calls for an exact date for the Government to announce the proposed referendum on samesex marriage in the Republic, as well as amending the 1937 Constitution “to include express equality protections for LGBT citizens and equal treatment for all family forms”.
Transgender rights were also mentioned by the party leader, and by Pádraig Mac Lochlainn, stressing the need to introduce Gender Recognition legislation as soon as possible. The party also praised the work carried out by numerous LGBT groups, including GLEN, TENI and BeLonG To. When asked by EILE Magazine how the party would face strong homophobic views when implementing their policies in Northern Ireland, Gerry Adams spoke warmly of how the first civil partnership in the UK or Ireland took place in Belfast, and that such a “historic moment” provided hope for LGBT rights in the region. EILE Magazine 69
USA | Equal Marriage
US: Federal Appeals Court Rules States Can’t Ban Same-sex Marriage
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USA | Equal Marriage
In Kitchen v Herbert [13-4178] before Judges Kelly, Lucero and Holmes, the 10th US Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver yesterday upheld a ruling by a lower court striking down the same-sex marriage ban in Utah. The 2 to 1 judges’ decision held that the Constitution protects marriage as a fundamental right. Same-sex couples are included in this protection, and so cannot be deprived of the right to marry, just because they choose to marry a person of the same-sex. Asking the question: May a State of the Union constitutionally deny a citizen the benefit or protection of the laws of the State based soley upon the sex of the person that citizen chooses to marry? The decision stated: “Having heard and carefully considered the argument of the litigants, we conclude that, consistent with the United States Constitution, the State of Utah may not do so. We hold that the Fourteenth Amendment protects the fundamental right to marry, establish a family, raise children, and enjoy the full protection of a state’s marital
laws. A state may not deny the issuance of a marriage license to two persons, or refuse to recognize their marriage, based solely upon the sex of the persons in the marriage union. For the reasons stated in this opinion, we affirm”. The decision also stated: “It is wholly illogical to believe that state recognition of love and commitment of samesex couples will alter the most intimate and personal decisions of opposite-sex couples”. This was countering the argument that traditional marriage would be undermined. The decision also held that there was no reasonable objection to samesex marriage. This decision means that same-sex marriage will now be legal in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Utah, New Mexico and Wyoming, all states which are covered by the 10th Circuit. However, the decision was put on hold pending an appeal by Utah’s Attorney-General, Sean D. Reyes. A spokesman for the AG said that they intend to file a Petition for Writ of Certiorari with the Supreme Court. Governor Gary R. Herbert, who was disappointed with the ruling, said he believed that states should have the right to determine marriage laws, and that Utahns should have the
finality and clarity that only comes from a decision by the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, LGBT supporters and the same-sex couples involved in the court case, Derek Kitchen, Moudi Sbeity, Karen Archer, Kate Call, Laurie Wood and Kody Partridge, are hailing the decision as a “victory for fairness and equality”. Adding to the list of states that now allow same-sex marriage, Indiana yesterday also saw federal judge Richard Young strike down their ban on samesex marriage, allowing couples to marry immediately in that state. Both the Indiana and Utah decisions were made the day before the anniversary of the striking down of parts of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) by the Supreme Court on 26th June last year. However, in regard to the Indiana decision, Brian Brown, president of the National Organization for Marriage (NOM) believes that the Supreme Court will reverse Judge Young’s ruling, reinstating the marriage ban. Oral Argument Audio Recording for 13-4178 Kitchen v Herbert link here MKB/Eile – June 25
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USA | Equal Marriage
Wisconsin: Federal Court Strikes Down Same-sex Marriage Ban U.S. District Court Judge Barbara Crabb yesterday (June 6th) struck down the discriminatory amendment to the Wisconsin state constitution preventing samesex couples from marrying. The American Civil Liberties Union had challenged the law on behalf of eight couples seeking the freedom to marry in Wisconsin or to have their out-of-state marriages recognized. Two of the plaintiffs, Kami Young and Karina Willes of West Milwaukee, were legally married last year in Minnesota and have a newborn daughter. 22 EILE Magazine
But because Young is the birth mother, she is the only one who is recognized as the legal parent on the birth certificate.
“Our daughter has two parents who love her dearly,” said Willes. “I am no less a mother to her than Kami is, and she deserves the security of having both of her parents legally recognized. Our daughter shouldn’t have second-class protections.” “We are tremendously happy that these loving and committed couples will now be able to access the security and recognition that only marriage provides,” said Larry Dupuis, legal director of the ACLU of Wisconsin. “These discriminatory laws are falling around the country and it is only right that Wisconsin move
forward as well.” “Wisconsin’s constitutional ban on marriage for same-sex couples is a striking example of intentional discrimination towards lesbians and gay men in Wisconsin,” said John Knight, staff attorney with the ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Project. “The marriage ban has sent a powerful message that samesex couples are undeserving of the dignity and important legal protections associated with marriage. Judge Crabb’s decision that same-sex couples are equal under the law sends an entirely different message — one inviting and encouraging fair treatment and respect for these couples.” Thanks to ACLU (eile.ie – June 7)
Slovakia | Politics
Slovakia: Constitutional Ban On Same-sex Marriage Approved On Wednesday, a Bill to ban same-sex marriage was approved by a vote of 102 to 18 (with 3 abstentions) by the Slovakian parliament. This will amend the Slovakian constitution to define marriage as a “unique bond between a man and a woman”. The amendment means that same-sex marriages will not be recognised, nor will benefits be given to same-sex couples, only to a “legally recognised union between a man and a woman”. Prime Minister Robert Fico has been accused of seeking to increase his support from conservatives, having lost the presidential election last March. Roman Catholics make up over 60% of the population,
and the bill was proposed jointly by the Christian Democrats and the ruling socialist party, Smer. The European Parliament’s Intergroup on LGBT Rights says a deal was made behind closed doors: The two parties purposedly sought to avoid public debate. Discussions between SMER and KDH took place behind closed doors; no public hearing took place; and MPs from other parties were handed a copy of the agreed amendment just hours before its discussion in committee, on 27 May. Ulrike Lunacek MEP, CoPresident of the LGBT Intergroup, reacted: “This amendment doesn’t ‘defend’
marriage; its sole purpose is to limit the rights of lesbian and gay couples. It will have consequences for all other forms of families, like single parents or unmarried couples.” “I am dismayed by the outcome of the vote, as well as the undemocratic way this backroom deal was struck. This shows how afraid SMER and KDH were of a public discussion—and quite rightly. A public debate would have provoked a loud protest against such a backward move.” “I will show my solidarity by taking part in Bratislava Pride on June 28th.” MBK/Eile – June 6
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Events | Gay Switchboard
Gay Switchboard Ireland To Host Open Day Gay Switchboard Ireland is hosting an Open Day on July 5 to answer questions from people interested in volunteering with the service. The aim of the day is to attract new volunteers to the service who want to offer their support even if they don’t want to become a telephone volunteer, though people interested in becoming a phone support volunteer will also be welcome. The Open Day will be at Outhouse, Capel Street, Dublin from 1-3pm on Saturday July 5, 2014. Existing Switchboard staff and volunteers will be on
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hand to answer questions about the service and how new volunteers can get involved.
last recruitment drive for new phone volunteers received their biggest ever response.
“There’s a lot of people interested in volunteering for Gay Switchboard Ireland who don’t necessarily want to take calls,” said newly elected Gay Switchboard Ireland Director Maria Keogh. “This Open Day gives us the opportunity to meet potential new volunteers in person and for them to decide if volunteering for Gay Switchboard Ireland is for them. If anyone is interested in becoming a phone support volunteer they’re more than welcome to come along and talk to us as well about the process and what is involved.”
“The phone support remains at the heart of what we do and we’ll be running a new recruitment period for telephone volunteers again this autumn,” said Maria. “We’re delighted that so many people want to give up their time to help support us and their community in whatever way they can and we look forward to meeting many of them at our Open Day.”
The organisation, which celebrates its 40th Anniversary this year, has seen an upsurge in new volunteer queries and their
For more information, visit gayswitchboard.ie
The Open Day is open to all who want find out more about volunteering for Gay Switchboard Ireland. No appointment is necessary, just call in.
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Sport | Michael Sam
Michael Sam Signs Four-Year Contract With St. Louis Rams Michael Sam, the first openly-gay American football player to be selected in the NFL Draft, has signed a four-year contract deal with the St. Louis Rams. The St. Louis Rams announced last Thursday via Twitter that the team had selected all eleven players that the Rams picked in the NFL Draft, which included Michael Sam. Sam’s four-year contract is worth $2.65 million, according to Fox Sports’ Mike Garafolo. Michael Sam also took to Twitter to break the good news about signing his contract, saying that he was “[g]rateful, humbled, and motivated”, after officially signing. When Michael came out earlier this year, the NFL also released 76 EILE Magazine
a statement in support of the young player, which politely affirmed the policy that sexual orientation is not grounds for discrimination in the NFL: “We admire Michael Sam’s honesty and courage. Michael is a football player. Any player with ability and determination can succeed in the NFL. We look forward to welcoming and supporting Michael Sam in 2014.” Despite being the first openlygay player in the NFL, Michael has made it clear to the media that he wants to be known for his talents on the pitch, and not just for his sexuality. After hearing the news that he had been selected for the NFL Draft, the University of Missouri player said:
“Let me tell you something, if we were playing the Vikings right now, I’d probably have three sacks the first game. Since February and my big announcement, this has been a whole [lot of] speculation of the first openly gay football player, but you know what? It’s not about that. It’s about playing football.” “Can Michael Sam play football? Yes, I can,” he added, “and the St. Louis Rams know I can. I am going to give everything I’ve got to the St. Louis Rams to help the Rams win a championship.” (eile.ie / June 15)
LGBT | Catholic Church
Vatican Document Advises More Tolerant Church for Gay Christians and Their Children The Vatican has published a document yesterday, that advises the Catholic Church to be less critical of homosexuals, while also welcoming their children into the Church without prejudice. The 75-page document, titled ‘Instrumentum Laboris’, has been prepared ahead of the synod of Catholic bishops, which is set to take place at the Vatican in October this year. The document is based on a 39-question survey that was sent out to bishops across the world, who shared it with their priests to gather the opinions of parishioners worldwide. The responses from lay folk has clearly made the Vatican take stock of its followers, as the main reaction is that the Church is “too exclusive, distant and in need of more humility”. 78 EILE Magazine
On the topic of homosexuality, it became clear from the survey that there is now a distinct gap in terms of what Catholics believe, and what the Church’s official stance is. The document described that “many Catholics had a shallow understanding of the teachings of their Church on issues such as birth control, homosexuality, divorce, remarriage, cohabitation and other issues related to the family.” In an unexpected turn, Catholics were also asked how they felt about the idea of children of same-sex couples being welcome in the Church. Their response to the question was overwhelmingly positive and welcoming. “…when people living in [same-sex unions] request a child’s baptism, almost all the responses emphasize that the
child must be received with the same care, tenderness and concern which is given to other children,” the report said. According to Reuters: While Vatican officials have stressed that Church teachings against homosexual activity would not change under pressure of public opinion, the document said “many responses” called for “theological study in dialogue with the human sciences to develop a multi-faceted look at the phenomenon of homosexuality”. The paper will be discussed by bishops at the upcoming synod on family in October, where they may suggest modifying Church teachings. If so, these would need to be approved by Pope Francis before coming into effect.
LGBT | Peter Tatchell
Panti Presents Human Rights Award to Peter Tatchell at Berlin Pride Gala Irish drag queen extraordinaire, Panti Bliss, presented British human rights activist, Peter Tatchell with a Berlin Pride Soul of Stonewall Award at a gala event in the German capital last night. The award is bestowed by the Berlin Pride Association (Berliner CSD e.V). Tatchell, a well known and respected LGBTQ and human rights activist in the UK, received the Soul of Stonewall Award (for Resistance) alongside Austrian Eurovision winner Conchita Wurst (Special Award) and Nigerian human rights activist, Dorothy Aken’Ova (Resistance Award). Accepting the Exceptional Achievement award, Tatchell said that it was a “huge honour” to receive his award alongside Conchita and Dorothy. “I’m a huge admirer of Dorothy’s work in Nigeria,” Tatchell explained. “She has been an outstanding champion of the rights of women and sexual minorities. Conchita made a huge global impact at Eurovision, challenging gender stereotypes and promoting gender diversity”.
and their straight allies,” Mr Tatchell continued. “They are doing amazing work in conditions of great adversity; risking arrest and violence. Their sacrifice and courage is awesome. Together with LGBTI activists in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and the Middle East, they are in the frontline of the global struggle for LGBTI human rights.” “I’ve been campaigning for LGBTI rights and other human rights for over 47 years. I could never have done half of what I’ve achieved without the support of other equally committed activists. This award is for them too.” Later, during the Berlin Pride, Tatchell said that it was “very emotional to attend and speak at the memorial ceremony at the Berlin monument to the LGBT victims of Nazism”. Panti (AKA Rory O’Neill) and owner of Pantibar in Dublin, is internationally known for her speech at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin last February, in defence of gay rights, known as Panti’s Noble Call, which went viral, and brought attention to homophobia in Ireland.
“I dedicate my receipt of this award to the heroic, inspirational Russian LGBTI activists EILE Magazine 79
Smoke Season
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