An LGBT activist’s view of entertainment and world news.
As an LGBT activist, the promotion of queer rights is #1 on my homosexual agenda. This weekly column serves as a forum for me to comment on issues and causes currently affecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals. My “rundown” of these topics is from the perspective of an LGBT activist; it is my goal that by keeping our community informed, we can all help contribute to the battle for equality.
Outfest is Hiring
Filmmakers and the LGBT community gathered on February 17, 2011 to celebrate the launch of FUSION in Los Feliz. FUSION 2011 is the Los Angeles LGBT People of Color Film Festival. By the way, Outfest (LGBT Film Festival) is also accepting applications for Festival Producer, Volunteer Coordinator, Festival Communications, Special Events Catering, Community Outreach Coordinator and many more. For full job descriptions or to apply, visit www.outfest.org.
NGLTF vs. NY Wal-Mart
The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF) announced its opposition to Wal-Mart’s plans for a New York City beachhead location. NGLTF’s statement said: “With the expansion of Wal-Mart stores comes the expansion of antiquated employment policies that provide little to no protections for, and at times even hostile environments toward their LGBT employees.” Rea Carey (Executive Director of NGLTF) told the New York Times: “It maybe a local debate for New York City but Wal-mart is the largest private employer in the country.”
Gay Marriage in RI
House Speaker Gordon Fox, an openly gay Democrat, publicly announced this week that he is doing everything in his power to move forward on gay marriage. Speaker Gordon acknowledged a vote in the Judiciary Committee could come as soon as March 10, 2011. House members are reviewing legislation introduced in Maryland and the proposal is currently worded as “strongly supported” in the House. Submitted in the House by Rep. Arthur Handy (D – Cranson) and in the Senate by Sen. Rhonda Perry (D – Providence) the bill is worded to recognize “civil marriage” between people of identical gender, but excludes any religious institutions.
GLAAD’s FCC Complaint
GLAAD and the National Hispanic Media Coalition filed a joint complaint to the FCC in regards to the show Jose Luis Sin Censura, which airs twice a day in 37 markets across the United States. Both organizations object to the show’s blatant use of anti-gay slurs, verbal and physical attacks on gay people and hyper sexualizing women. In 2005, GLAAD lead a protest of the show which prompted KFC, Chevrolet and Nissan to pull advertising. Nearly 1,000 people joined GLAAD’s objections on a petition to Lieberman Broadcasting Inc. which produces the show.
HRC Honors Mo’Nique
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) announced it will honor Academy Award wining actress Mo’Nique with the “Ally for Equality” award at the 2011 HRC Atlanta Gala Dinner. According to the HRC, the Ally award recognizes the outstanding efforts of those who dedicate time, energy and wholehearted commitment to better the lives of LGBT people. Bravo’s Andy Cohen received the “Visibility Award” last year.
That’s all folks and I hope you tune in next week!
