AUGUST 11, 2017 VOLUME 48 ISSUE 32 AMERICAS LGBT NEWS SOURCE WASHINGTONBLADE.

COM

LGBT groups le lawsuit expected to be sent to Defense Secretary

as White House reportedly
nalizes guidance
By KAREN OCAMB
It took the threat of nuclear war with
North Korea to reportedly get the White
House to put a hold on the policy re-
instituting the ban on open transgender
service in the military.
A White House source, who spoke to
the Blade on condition of anonymity,
said A Guidance Policy for Open
Transgender Service Phase Out which
had been certied by the White House
Counsels Oce after repeated advice
that it would result in lawsuits was
James Mattis sometime during the week
starting Aug. 7.
However, according to a Pentagon
source, after President Trump and North
Korean dictator Kim Jong-un got into a
ery verbal sparring match on Aug. 8,
the Defense Secretary sent a message to
major U.S. commands letting them know
that the threat by North Korea was his
overriding priority and that other issues
were to be temporarily sidelined.
Additionally, the Pentagon source says
that Mattis intends to put a hold on all
personnel matters, though disciplinary
issues such discharges will continue.
However, anything that aects military
PRESIDENT TRUMP caved to pressure from religious conservatives and announced a
ban on trans service members.
CONTINUES ON PAGE 13 WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY

Anti-LGBT groups resurgent with Trump in White House

By CHRIS JOHNSON
cjohnson@washblade.com

Social conservative advocates and groups seeking to undermine LGBT rights

once thought to be waning in inuence appear to have experienced a resurgence
with President Trump in the White House.
The growing power of anti-LGBT groups, such as the Family Research Council,
Alliance Defending Freedom and the Heritage Foundation, can be seen in the policies
enacted by Trump against the LGBT community as well as the close interaction
between social conservatives and his administration.
Prior to his August vacation, Trump announced his intent to ban transgender people
from the U.S. military in any capacity, unilaterally instituting the anti-LGBT policy IVANKA TRUMP and notorious homophobe RALPH REED together at the White
House.
CONTINUES ON PAGE 17 PHOTO COURTESY OF TWITTER

MODEL SOLDIER BACK TO SCHOOL HAPPY 50TH

Transgender woman talks A look at the Trump Two Blade staers

serving with distinction in Eect on campuses and on growing up in
Maryland Defense Force. more in our special section. Columbia, Md.

PAGE 6 PAGE 25 PAGE 29

0 2 A UGUST 1 1 , 2017 W A SH I N G T O N BLA D E . CO M
W A SH I N GTO NB LAD E.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 0 3

CUSTOMIZE YOUR STYLE!

Arm Styles Leg Shapes Fabrics / Leathers Cushions & Trim More!

SECTIONAL
CONFIGURATION

leather
color

area's largest dealer of

DURABLE & STYLISH LIVING ROOM LINE STRESSLESS
Currently at Rockville & Falls Church locations | COMING SOON! Tysons & Chantilly availability by mid-August 2017

THE AREA'S LARGEST SELECTION OF MOST CUSTOMIZABLE FURNITURE BRANDS

TYSONS CHANTILLY ROCKVILLE FALLS CHURCH

703.556.3900 703.766.8000 301.881.3900 703.820.8000

HamiltonsSofaGallery.com
 WASHINGTONBLADE.COM

0 4 A UGUS T 1 1 , 2017 LO CA L N E W S

Defense raises doubts over ID of

Comings & Goings man charged in trans murder
Kruse takes new role with Family Equality Council
Trial began ve years 2016, Superior Court Judge Lynn Leibovitz
cleared the way for a trial by handing down
By PETER ROSENSTEIN
after stabbing death an order nding Montgomery competent
of Deoni Jones to stand trial based on the ndings of the
The Comings & Goings column is about sharing the professional successes of our commu- latest of several psychiatric examinations.
nity. We want to recognize those landing new jobs, new clients for their business, joining
boards of organizations and other achievements. Please share your successes with us at By LOU CHIBBARO JR. In opening arguments last week,
comingsandgoings@washblade.com. lchibbaro@washblade.com defense attorney Monica Douglas told
the jury that prosecutors had insucient
Congratulations to Julie Kruse With witnesses acknowledging their evidence to prove beyond a reasonable
who is starting a new position as recollections have become less certain ve doubt that it was Montgomery that
Federal Policy Advocate with the and a half years later, defense attorneys stabbed Jones.
Family Equality Council. Council CEO representing a District man charged This case is built on assumptions,
Rev. Stan J. Sloan said, Julies record with the February 2012 murder of a speculations and shortcuts, and does not
of committed service to the LGBTQ transgender woman moved ahead with rely on any evidence, the Washington Post
community speaks for itself, and we their claim at a trial this week that their quoted her as saying. Mr. Montgomery
are privileged to have her join our client was misidentied as the murderer. was not there when she was stabbed, the
public policy team to ght for lived Police and prosecutors have charged Post quoted Douglas as saying.
and legal equality for LGBTQ families, Gary N. Montgomery, 60, with plunging But prosecutors said they would
especially in todays challenging JULIE KRUSE a knife into the side of the head of present witnesses and video footage
political climate. Upon accepting PHOTO COURTESY OF KRUSE Deoni JaParker Jones, 23, at a bus stop obtained from nearby security cameras
the position Kruse said, Im excited in Northeast Washington on the night of linking Montgomery to the murder scene.
to join the top-notch team at Family Feb. 2, 2012. Jones died in a hospital later On Monday, one of the governments lead
Equality Council in their critical work that evening. witnesses, Jermaine Jackson, 41, testied
during this politically challenging time. Montgomery, who was 55 at the time that he and his girlfriend were in a vehicle
Im especially thrilled to return to of the incident, has been charged with that was stopped at a trac light next to the
advocacy with and for LGBTQ families rst-degree murder while armed in bus stop where the incident occurred. He
and youth, to defend and advance connection with Jones death. said that his girlfriend, who was driving, saw
the equal rights, opportunities, and Shortly after his trial began last week in a man strike a woman in the head.
supports we all deserve. D.C. Superior Court, prosecutors with the She said look at that, Jackson
As Federal Policy Advocate, Kruse U.S. Attorneys Oce and defense attorneys, recounted. Someone just hit someone.
will be based in D.C. and work closely JEFF GROTON in their opening arguments, provided the I looked. It was a lady down and a dude
with Chief Policy Ocer Denise PHOTO COURTESY OF GROTON jury with conicting views on the strength of standing over her.
Brogan-Kator to implement and the evidence against Montgomery. Added Jackson: I got out and I
expand Family Equality Councils Among other things, police and approached the dude. I said why did you hit
public policy agenda. The Council connects, supports, and represents the 3 prosecutors have said a motive for the that lady? He ran away and I ran after him.
million LGBTQ parents in the country and their 6 million children of all ages. murder remains unclear and they have Jackson told of how he caught up with
They provide a voice for LGBTQ families on Capitol Hill. been unable to uncover evidence to the man, grabbed him by his hooded jacket
Kruse has more than 15 years of experience advocating for the LGBTQ community, indicate the murder was a hate crime. and hit him, knocking him down. He said his
immigrants, working families, women and girls. Her eorts have contributed to Jones mother and stepfather, Judean intention was to hold the man until police
victories including relief from deportation for tens of thousands of LGBTQ immigrant Jones and Alvin Bethea, have argued since could be called to the scene. But seconds
families, ending Dont Ask, Dont Tell, and stopping discriminatory tax audits of the time of the murder that Montgomery later, Jackson recounted, his girlfriend, who
low-income families. Prior to her career in advocacy, she developed job training targeted their daughter at the bus stop had entered the bus stop shelter where a
and educational programs leading to high-wage careers for women and girls. She near their home at East Capitol Street bench was located, began to scream.
was the founding director of the National Community Tax Coalition. She served and Sycamore Road, N.E., because of her I turned to her to be sure she was OK,
on the Governors Commission on the Status of Women in Illinois and chaired its status as a transgender woman. Jackson testied. At some point during the
Pay Equity Working Group. She has taught at the college and high school levels in Court records show that police and confusion that followed the man he had
the U.S. and in Latin America. Kruse has worked for a number of organizations, prosecutors charged Montgomery with chased down got up and ran away, Jackson
including the National Center for Healthy Housing, Immigration Equality, and the the murder on Feb. 11, 2012, nine days said. Instead of chasing him again he ran
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network. after he allegedly stabbed Jones. back to the bus stop and quickly discovered
Congratulations also to Jerey W. Groton who has accepted the position of The incident shocked members of the why his girlfriend and another woman who
Director of Finance with Mile High Early Learning, which is Denvers oldest and LGBT community and many city ocials, was at the scene were screaming.
largest provider of subsidized quality early childhood care and education serving including then-Mayor Vincent Gray, who There was a knife sticking in the head
thousands of Denvers vulnerable children every year since 1970. organized and participated in vigils at the of the woman who his girlfriend saw
Groton is a proven organizational leader with a strong background in strategic site of the murder and called for greater being struck while he and his girlfriend
business planning and nancial management. He has a passion for driving eorts to curtail hatred and bias toward were in their vehicle, Jackson told the jury.
eectiveness in organizational work life through strategic planning and innovative transgender people. In response to questions by Assistant
problem solving. That includes a track record of developing, restructuring and The trial began nearly ve and a half years U.S. Attorney David Gorman, one of two
improving diverse operations across nance, IT, management, and HR. He is a after Montgomerys arrest. It had been prosecutors involved in the case, Jackson
big-picture thinker motivated by business challenges and competing priorities. postponed several times after conicting described the appearance of the attacker
Groton worked for the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) psychiatric reports made it unclear whether as best he could recall ve and a half years
and was recruited to that association based on his success with the National Montgomery was competent to stand trial, after the incident. He was slimmer than
Association of Women Judges-USA (NAWJ). Prior to that he worked at Downey according to court records. Montgomery himself, he appeared to have a beard, his
Associates International, Inc. and Envision EMI, Inc. has been held for most of the time since his complexion was lighter than his, and he
Groton served in the United States Air Force as a Command and Control arrest at St. Elizabeths Hospital, a city-run appeared to be about 30 or 40 years old.
Specialist with top-secret security clearance. psychiatric facility.
Court records show that on Nov. 29, CONTINUES AT WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
W A SH I N GTO NB LAD E.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 0 5
 WASHINGTONBLADE.COM

0 6 A UGUS T 1 1 , 2017 LO CA L N E W S

Trans soldier served with distinction in Md. Defense Force

join because they want to serve the country
and they believe in peoples rights.
Although Holmes said her co-workers
and supervisors at the federal agency
where she works were great when she
transitioned in 2010, she remains reluctant
to disclose the name of the agency, in part,
because she doesnt want to be portrayed
as ocially representing the agency on
transgender related matters.
And I just dont want to say much
about it because who knows what Trump
is going to do, she said.
The president has said he has no
plans to rescind President Obamas
executive order banning discrimination
in the federal civilian workforce based
on gender identity and expression or to
repeal previously adopted government
policies banning sexual orientation
discrimination against federal employees.
But some LGBT rights advocates say
they fear Trump might change his mind
on those protections just as he did in
seeking to rescind the Obama protections
for transgender people the military.

KAREN HOLMES served for ve years as a model soldier with a little known military agency
called the Maryland Defense Force.
Silver Spring resident
named Soldier of the Year
By LOU CHIBBARO JR.
lchibbaro@washblade.com
Since transitioning as a transgender
woman in 2016, Silver Spring, Md.,
resident Karen Holmes served for
ve years as a model soldier with a
little known military agency called the
Maryland Defense Force.
As a sta sergeant, Holmes took part
in the Maryland Defense Forces stated
mission of providing competent and
supplemental professional, technical,
and military support to the Maryland
Army National Guard, the Maryland
Air National Guard, and the Maryland
Emergency Management Agency.
Similar to members of the National
Guard, Holmes and her fellow soldiers
with the Maryland Defense Force carried
out their duties mostly on weekends
while holding a full-time civilian job.
But unlike the National Guard, members
of the Maryland Defense Force, which is
known as the MDDF, serve as volunteers
PHOTO COURTESY OF HOLMES
In December of 2012, just one year
after enlisting in the MDDF, Holmes
was named Non-Commissioned Ocer
Soldier of the Year by the MDDF and the
Maryland State Guard Association. In
October 2013 she was named Soldier of
the Year by the State Guard Association
of United States for an honor in which
23,000 soldiers in 24 states competed.
They knew I was transgender, Holes
said. They talked to the National Guard
people because we felt kind of a little
dierent. They were OK with me being in
the Maryland Defense Force.
With all that as a backdrop, Holmes
said she was shocked when she heard
on the news last month that President
Trump announced in a posting on Twitter
that he had directed the U.S. military to
reinstate the ban on transgender people
from serving in the military.
I was really shocked and hurt because
of the fact that were doing great things
out there, she said. When I was with
the Maryland Defense Force we were
supplementing what the National Guard did.
I did everything from parades for the Color
Guard Detail. I was a chaplains assistant.
And, according to Holmes, other trans
Catania weds in ceremony
performed by Council colleague
Gay former D.C. Council member
David Catania, who was the lead
author in 2009 of the citys marriage
equality law, married his partner
Bill Enright on Saturday, Aug. 5,
in a ceremony performed by his
friend and former colleague Council
member Mary Cheh.
I was so honored to do it, Cheh
told the Washington Blade on
Tuesday.
The wedding ceremony and a
reception took place at the National
Museum of Women and the Arts
located in downtown Washington.
Enright serves as general manger
and lead designer for Edge Floral
Event Designers, a Gaithersburg,
Md., based event planning rm that,
among other things, plans weddings
for clients in the D.C. metro area.
Since giving up his Council seat
for an unsuccessful run for mayor in
2014, Catania, an attorney, joined the
Washington oce of the international
law rm Greenberg Traurig in 2015 as Former Council member DAVID CATANIA
a shareholder and partner. was married Aug. 5.
Among those attending the couples WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY DAMIEN SALAS

and receive no monetary compensation
unless the state governor, who serves as
commander, activates their units at times
of a state or national emergency.
Holmes has worked full-time during
the past 16 years as a safety ocer for a
federal government agency in Washington.
She was honorably discharged from the
MDDF in December 2016.
She told the Washington Blade in an
interview on Tuesday that she hopes her
record as a decorated soldier with the
MDDF while out as transgender to many
of her fellow soldiers and commanding
ocers would serve as a strong refutation
to the Trump administrations pending
plan to ban transgender people from
serving in the military.
soldiers were involved with operations
such as engineering and medical duties.
Like other advocates for allowing
transgender people to serve in the
military, Holmes said its widely known
that transgender people currently serving
in main branches of the U.S. military are
performing well.
And the big thing the president was
talking about was the cost as far as
medical services, she said. Thats been
a big issue, she noted, adding that she
feels its unfair to equate medical costs
such as surgery with the desire of trans
people to serve in the military.
To me I think its pretty rough to say
were going to join just to get the surgery,
Holmes said. Thats not why they join. They
wedding were Council Chair Phil
Mendelson, Council member Jack
Evans and former Council member Yvette Alexander, with whom Catania served
on the Council during his tenure as a Council member from 1997 to 2015. Also
attending was Council member Charles Allen.
Catania emerged as one of the Councils strongest advocates for LGBT rights
and is credited with playing the lead role in introducing and pushing for the citys
2009 law that legalized same-sex marriage.
It was festive and poignant as I would have anticipated it would be, Cheh said
in describing the wedding and reception. There were the moving parts of the
sharing their vows and exchanging their rings, she said.
But there was levity along the way too and cheers and clapping when I said,
With the power invested in me I pronounce you married and you may kiss your
groom, Cheh continued. And the place was wild cheering. It was great.
Catania and Enright couldnt immediately be reached this week. Representatives
of their respective oces said the two were out of town following their wedding.
LOU CHIBBARO JR.
W A SH I N GTO NB LAD E.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 0 7

0 8 A UGUS T 1 1 , 2017
Okla. gay man sues town for allowing house to burn down
Family faced threats
based on anti-gay
bias and racial enmity
By CHRIS JOHNSON
cjohnson@washblade.com
A gay man in Oklahoma raising a black
son has led a civil rights lawsuit against
his local sheri for allegedly allowing
fellow residents to burn down his home
in an attempt to run him out of town.
The complaint, led on Aug. 3 and
made public Sunday, was led in federal
court by Randy Gamel-Medler, who
formerly resided in Blaine County, Okla.
The town clerk, Gamel-Medler lived in
the City of Hitchcock with his seven-year-
old adopted son whom he brought there
in August 2016. The citys population is just
121, according to the 2010 U.S. Census.
Gamel-Medler alleges he faced
continual threats of violence based on
anti-gay bias and racial enmity after
moving his son to Blaine County because
of his sexual orientation and his sons race.
These threats came before an apparent
eort by locals to burn down his home as
they looked on upon its destruction.
According to the lawsuit, Meradith
Norris, a trustee of the Town of Hitchcock,
upon learning Gamel Medler had a black
son, said at a town meeting in the presence
of city ocials, Whats going to happen
when your house burns down and we
dont send out the re trucks? Afterwards,
Gamel-Medler led a police report with
the former sheri of Blaine County, but no
action was taken, the lawsuit says.
Months later, when Gamel-Medler
was performing his duties on the road
as town clerk, he was allegedly assaulted
by convicted felon Jonita Pauls Jacks who
came up to Gamel-Medlers truck and
tried to enter it. When Gamel-Medler
locked the door, Jonita Pauls Jacks started
shaking the truck, called him a fucking
queer, and said, Im going to grab your
little boy, rip his nigger head o, and shit
down his throat, the lawsuit says.
Afterwards, Gamel-Medler went to
the oce of Blaine County Sheri Tony
Almaguer to le a report, but the sheri
allegedly refused to take it and told him,
Thats just how they how they are out
there and its free speech.
Other actions were allegedly taken
against Gamel-Medler. They include
gravel being thrown at his home by
a townsperson on a motorcycle; the
erection near a post oce where Gamel-
Medler and his son walked of a three-by-
four-foot sign reading The town clerk is a
fucking queer; and a physical altercation
after a townsperson ran Gamel-Medler
and his friend from the road.
Deputy Sheri Bob Kissimee allegedly
took Gamel-Medler aside after the last
incident and warned him, These people
are serious. Theyre going to kill you,
theyre going to kill your son and theyre
going to burn your house down.
Other town authorities, including
Hitchcock Mayor Rick Edsall, took no
action, the lawsuit says. Blaine County
Undersheri Dave Robertson allegedly
wouldnt allow the ling of a police report
after the incident.
In May 2017, Gamel-Medler, who had
just sent his son to a neighbors house,
heard a noise in his garage like glass
breaking and called the sheris oce to
report a burglary, then saw a re in his
garage and called for the re department.
Although Gamel-Medler lived one block
from there station, the re department
allegedly did nothing for an extended
period of time, resulting in his home
burning to the ground.
While Gamel-Medlers house was
burning, three townspeople Patsy
Meier, Kenny Meier and Joey Pauls
allegedly watched nearby. The mayor and
his family were allegedly watching from
their lawn chairs, the lawsuit alleges. A
person believed to be the re marshal
allegedly told Gamel-Medler the recorded
minutes from a town council meeting in
which ocials threatened to burn his
house down were in his home, adding
words to the eect of, I guess that takes
care of that.
The named defendants in the lawsuit
are Blaine County Sheri Tony Almaguer,
Under Sheri David Robertson, Edsall and
townspeople that allegedly threatened
Gamel-Medler. The lawsuit calls on the
court to assess damages Gamel-Medler
incurred as a result of the threats and loss
of his home as well as punitive damages
against the defendants.
Troy Stevenson, executive director of
Freedom Oklahoma, said in a statement
the threats to Gamel-Medler and the loss
of his home demonstrate after years of
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
NEWS
RANDY GAMEL-MEDLER (left) with his
partner Ralph and son.
PHOTO COURTESY OF FREEDOM OKLAHOMA
progress, crimes of bias still exist. under the Fourteenth Amendment
The allegations in Hitchcock are because of a 1983 federal law making
horric, and show the intersection of hate local ocials liable for denying civil rights
aimed at both the African-American and to U.S. citizens. The lawsuit also makes
LGBTQ communities, Stevenson said. claims under other federal laws against
Stevenson said the threats and conspiracy and denial of equal protection
property loss Gamel-Medler faced also of the law.
demonstrate the need for Oklahoma Gamel-Medler also asserts claims
to pass legislation against hate crimes. under state law against assault, battery,
A federal hate crimes law, the Matthew destruction of property and intentional
Shepard & James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes iniction of emotional distress.
Prevention Act, is in place as a result of The sheris oce for Blaine County
former President Obama signing the referred Blade inquiries on the lawsuit
measure in 2009. to Blaine County District Attorney Mike
The lawsuit asserts federal court is the Fields, who didnt immediately respond
appropriate jurisdiction for adjudication to a request for comment.
HRC endorses Danica Roem
The Human Rights Campaign last week announced it has endorsed Danica
Roem in her race against Virginia state Del. Bob Marshall (R-Prince William
County).
Danica Roem is breaking down barriers while building bridges in her bid
for the Virginia House of Delegates, said HRC President Chad Grin in a
statement. By electing Danica Roem, voters will send a tireless advocate for
fairness, equality, and Virginia values to represent them in Richmond. We are
proud to endorse Danica Roem and are committed to helping her make history
by moving the commonwealth forward.
Roem is the rst openly transgender nominee for public oce in Virginia.
Marshall, who is among the most vocal opponents of LGBT rights in the
General Assembly, has represented the 13th District in the Virginia House of
Delegates since 1992. Roem would make history as the rst out trans person
seated in any state legislature if she were to beat Marshall in November.
Im honored to earn the support of an organization dedicated to building
people up instead of tearing each other down, said Roem in an HRC press
release that announced its endorsement.
Roem told supporters earlier this week that she raised more than $112,000
in July.
She said her campaign raised more than $70,000 since President Trump on
July 26 announced a ban on trans people in the U.S. military. Roem told her
supporters Marshall supports the policy and sponsored a 2014 bill that would
have banned gays and lesbians from serving in the Virginia National Guard.
MICHAEL K. LAVERS
W A SH I N GTO NB LAD E.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 0 9

The kitchen is totally organized

and everything has a place!
Its more efficient than I could
have ever imagined.
Everything is where it belongs.
It is so incredibly fabulous!
I can't wait for everyone to
see the results of your
gorgeous design! We worked
with Sarah Kahn Turner, the
whole process was just easy.
- Risa L.

Photography by John Cole

Call us today to set up a free consultation!

6935 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 | 301-657-2500 | www.gilmerkitchens.com

JIM COLEMAN
CADILLAC
2017 CT6 4DR SDN 3.6L
AWD 2017 ATS RWD ATS
SEDAN

ULTRA-LOW MILEAGE LEASES FOR WELL-QUALIFIED LESSEES ULTRA-LOW MILEAGE LEASES FOR WELL-QUALIFIED LESSEES

$
559 / 39 / $4,759 $
349 / 30 / $3,297
LOCATION
PER MONTH1 MONTHS DUE AT SIGNING
AFTER ALL OFFERS
PER MONTH1 MONTHS DUE AT SIGNING
AFTER ALL OFFERS
JIM COLEMAN
CADILLAC
10400A Auto Park Ave No security deposit required. Tax, title, license extra. Mileage charge of No security deposit required. Tax, title, license extra. Mileage charge of
$25 per mile over 30,000 miles. $25 per mile over 30,000 miles.
Bethesda, MD 20817

SALES

Marylands #1
301.841.6377
Mon-Fri 9am-8pm
Sat 9am-6pm

2017 ESCALADE LUXURY 4WD

UTILITY 2017 XT5 4WD 4DR
LUXURY Cadillac Dealer
Year after year.
ULTRA-LOW MILEAGE LEASES FOR WELL-QUALIFIED LESSEES ULTRA-LOW MILEAGE LEASES FOR WELL-QUALIFIED LESSEES

$
899 / 36 / $5,919 $
439 / 36 / $3,749
PER MONTH1 MONTHS DUE AT SIGNING PER MONTH1 MONTHS DUE AT SIGNING
AFTER ALL OFFERS AFTER ALL OFFERS
No security deposit required. Tax, title, license extra. Mileage charge of No security deposit required. Tax, title, license extra. Mileage charge of
$25 per mile over 30,000 miles. $25 per mile over 30,000 miles.

JimColemanCadillac.com

1 0 A UGUS T 1 1 , 2017
62 lawmakers blast anti-gay DOJ ling
Dems say brief violates our
nations ideals of liberty
By CHRIS JOHNSON
cjohnson@washblade.com
A group of 62 Democrats from both
chambers of Congress is blasting the U.S.
Justice Department for a recent court
ling arguing lesbians, gays and bisexuals
have no protections under existing
federal civil rights law.
In a letter dated Aug. 7 and made
public Tuesday, the lawmakers assert the
Justice Departments recent friend-of-the-
court brief in the case of Zarda V. Altitude
Express is not only contrary to existing
law, but violates our nations ideals of
liberty and justice for all.
The missive was led by Rep. David
Conway wont say if generals OKd trans military ban
Refuses to name Pentagon
ocials who were aware
prior to tweet
By CHRIS JOHNSON
cjohnson@washblade.com
As the Pentagon continues to allow
transgender people to serve despite
President Trumps announcement hell
ban them from the U.S. military, White
House counselor Kellyanne Conway
refused to say Sunday whether senior
defense ocials signed o on the policy
before the presidents proclamation.
Conway dodged on the issue during an
appearance on ABC News This Week when
pressed by host George Stephanopoulos
on which generals and military experts
signed o on the proposed ban.
First of all, the tweet didnt make policy,
the tweet announced policy, Conway said.
This had been a conversation, discussions
had with generals and other stakeholders
for a very long time. The president
announced it through the form that he
does that cuts out the middle man.
Stephanopoulos noted the widely held
belief Defense Secretary James Mattis was
apparently blindsided by the Twitter
announcement, although the White
House has insisted the defense secretary
was notied the night before it came.
Asked for specics on which generals
agreed to it, Conway spoke generally
about talks with generals and other
stakeholders, but again dodged.
And the fact is the Pentagon is a big
Cicilline (D-R.I.), whos gay and a co-chair
of the LGBT Equality Caucus, and Rep.
Frank Pallone (D-N.J.).
Any discrimination is completely
unacceptable, the letter says. It tears at
the fabric of our great nation and does not
move us forward; it takes us backward. We
urge the Department of Justice to reverse its
position and to refrain from arguing against
protections for LGBT people in any future Title
VII cases dealing with the issue of whether sex
discrimination includes discrimination based
on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Late last month, the Justice Department
under U.S. Attorney General Je Sessions
argued in a voluntary ling before the U.S.
Second Circuit Court of Appeals that Title
VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 aords
no protections against sexual orientation
discrimination.
As the letter points out, that reasoning
KELLYANNE CONWAY dodged when asked Sunday if generals had OKd Trumps trans military
ban.
place, Conway said. If you nd ve or 10 week, citing anonymous sources, a
people who say, we had no idea, 100 people
say we had no idea, that doesnt mean that
everybody there who needed to know.
Conway insisted the next step in the
process is the creation of policy guidance to
implement Trumps transgender military
ban, which she said would be made in
consultation with defense leaders.
The next steps...are to have policy
guidance and to put the order out and
to work with the stakeholders, obviously
Gen. Mattis...to implement this new
policy, Conway said.
The Los Angeles Blade reported last
is contrary to the decisions of a growing
number of district courts as well as the U.S.
Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, which
have determined Title VIIs prohibition
on sex discrimination in the workplace
applies to cases of discrimination against
lesbian, gay and bisexual people.
This reects a growing consensus
that discrimination against people based
on their sexual orientation cannot be
understood without reference to sex, the
letter says. To argue the opposite dees
any reasonable interpretation of what sex
discrimination means.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity
Commission, the U.S. agency charged
with enforcing federal employment non-
discrimination laws, has also found sexual
orientation discrimination is a form of sex
discrimination under Title VII.
However, the U.S. Eleventh Circuit
SCREEN CAPTURE VIA YOUTUBE
version of the guidance was approved
by the White House general counsel and
delivered to the Pentagon. A Defense
Department spokesperson said the
Pentagon is still awaiting the guidance.
When asked point blank if Mattis and
other senior defense ocials signed o on
the policy, Conway said she was familiar
with talks leading to the policy change,
but professed to have no knowledge on
whether defense ocials agreed with it.
I cant answer that because I wasnt
in the room when they discussed it with
him, Conway said. And I certainly arent
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
NATIONAL NEWS
Court of Appeals has determined existing
law against sex discrimination aords no
protections to lesbian, gay and bisexual
people. That has created a split among
the circuit courts and prompted the
LGBT legal group Lambda Legal to plan
to petition the U.S. Supreme Court for a
nationwide resolution to the issue.
Notably, most of the seven openly LGB
members of Congress who are also co-
chairs of the LGBT Equality Caucus didnt
sign the letter. Names that are absent are
Reps. Jared Polis (D-Colo.), Mark Takano
(D-Calif.), Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) and Kyrsten
Sinema (D-Ariz.). The only gay members
of Congress who signed the letter were
Cicilline, Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney
(D-N.Y.) and Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.)
The Washington Blade has placed a
request with the Justice Department seeking
comment on the congressional letter.
on the National Security Council. But I will
tell you, having spoken with the president
directly about this and having been
involved a little bit in the discussions
that the president had consulted for
quite a while with dierent stakeholders,
including his generals.
Meanwhile, Chair of the Joint Chiefs
of Sta Gen. Joseph Dunford has said
the military will have no modications
to transgender service until further
White House guidance. Coast Guard
Commandant Adm. Paul Zukunft has said
hed keep the faith with transgender
people in his service.
Conway concluded by saying former
President Obama took late in the game
action on transgender military service,
referencing his administrations actions
in his nal year in oce to lift an earlier,
longstanding ban prohibiting transgender
people from serving.
Everybody runs around acting like he
had a particular policy for all eight years,
Conway said. He did not. And you know
that. He took late in the game action.
Conway then credited Trump for taking
action on the issue in the early part of his
administration, even though his action
was the opposite of Obamas and seeks
to restrict transgender service rather
than enable it.
The president is now acting early in
his administration because he believes in
military readiness and he believes in unit
cohesion, Conway said. This is what he
has said. This is what others have said...
but the policy guidance and the exact
order and the nal conguration of the
law obviously are forthcoming.
W A SH I N GTO NB LAD E.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 1 1

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD

Admirals Square
Garage Condos and Townhomes in Annapolis from the mid $300s
Contemporary Exteriors and Innovative, Open Floorplans
Available Balconies, Rooftop Terraces and 4th-Level Lofts
Walk to Shopping, Dining and Entertainment at Annapolis Towne Centre
Convenient Commutes to D.C., Baltimore and Fort Meade
410.216.2190
131 Lejeune Way, Annapolis, MD 21401
Corner of Womack Drive and Admiral Cochrane Drive

Move Now and Save Big

BrookfieldDC.com/AdmiralsWB

Get Special 1.99% Financing Choose a new Move-In-Now Home

and youll also receive:
Sales Center Hours: Mon. 1pm-6pm, Tues.-Sun. 10am-6pm
Until September 30 PAID Closing Cost Assistance*
MHBR#408 | *Incentives are valid on new, full-priced contracts on select inventory until 9/30/2017 on select homesites
PAID Moving Expenses*
at Admirals Square Need to sell your current home or end your lease?
and models. Moving expenses paid up to $1,500. Financing offer is for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with a 2-1
buydown. 1.99% and principal and interest payment of $1,210.54 for months 1 through 12. 2.99% and principal and
Ask how we can help!
in Annapolis* interest payment of $1,380.89 for months 13 through 24. 3.99% and principal and interest payment of $1,563.80 for
months 25 through 360. Quoted rates and program availability subject to change. Must settle within 60 days from
purchase. Final payment will be based on actual purchase price and loan amount, taxes and insurance costs. Credit
Whether you want to be in before school starts or you just
and collateral subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Prices, financing,
want to find a stylish, innovative new home this summer, availability, terms and incentives are subject to change without notice. Please see a Brookfield Residential Sales
theres no better time than now. Manager for details.

REFINED
RESIDENTIAL
RETREATS.
AFFORDABLE.
13|U is an intimately scaled new building

Serving Our Community for 35 years

comprised of glamorously appointed
residential retreats. In partnership with the
DC Department of Housing and Community
a d v i C e m e d iat i o N L i t i G at i o N a P P e a L S C o L L a B o r at i o N Development, 13|U is pleased to offer
12 affordable dwelling units (ADUs).

1 BEDROOM 2 BEDROOM
$1629 $1955
INCOME RANGE INCOME RANGE
$51,442 $60,816 $61,730 $69,504

FamiLY | eState PLaNNiNG | emPLoYmeNt | immiGratioN

ComPLeX LitiGatioN | CiviL riGHtS | LGBt | adoPtioN | BuSiNeSS 1 3 1 0 U S T R E E T, N W WA S H I N G T O N , D C 2 0 0 0 9
13THANDU.COM

Silber, Perlman, Sigman & Tilev, P.A. 202.319.3525

at tor N e YS at L aw d C | m d | va

3 0 1 . 8 9 1 . 2 2 0 0 S P - L aw. C o m
6 9 3 0 C a r r o L L av e , S u i t e 6 1 0 ta k o m a Pa r k m d

1 2 A UGUS T 1 1 , 2017
TONI REIS (second from left) with his children after their baptism at a Roman
Catholic cathedral in Curitiba, Brazil, on April 23.
PHOTO COURTESY OF REIS
Pope congratulates gay couple
for baptizing children
Pope Francis has congratulated a gay Brazilian couple for baptizing their three
adopted children in the Roman Catholic Church.
Toni Reis and David Harrads three children Alyson, 16, Jessica, 14 and
Felipe, 11 were baptized on April 23 at a cathedral in the city of Curitiba, which
is located in southern Brazil.
Reis, who is president of Grupo Dignidade, a Brazilian LGBT advocacy group,
told the Blade this week that he sent a letter and pictures to Francis telling him
about the baptism in June. Reis, Harrad and their family then took a month-long
vacation to Europe.
Reis told the Blade a letter on ocial Vatican letterhead with a signed picture
of Francis were waiting for us when he and his family returned home.
The letter was dated July 10.
Pope Francis wishes you happiness, invoking for your family the abundance
of divine graces in order to live steadfastly and faithfully as good children of God
and of the church, wrote Monsignor Paolo Borgia of the Vatican Secretariat of
State in Portuguese.
Borgia also wrote that Francis asked Reis and his family to pray for him.
We are extremely pleased to have received this unexpected message and
what it means for families with same-sex parents, Reis told the Blade.
The Vaticans tone toward homosexuality and other LGBT-specic issues has
become more moderate since Francis became pope in 2013.
The Argentine-born ponti in July 2013 told reporters in response to a question
about gay priests as he returned to Rome from a trip to Brazil for World Youth
Day that gay men and lesbians should not be judged or marginalized.
The church last December rearmed its ban on gay men in the priesthood.
The Vaticans position on marriage rights for same-sex couples, homosexuality
and other LGBT-specic issues has not changed under Francis papacy.
A Vatican ocial on Tuesday told the Catholic News Agency the letter that Reis
received was a standard model of courtesy response that the Vatican sends to
all the people who write to the pope. The ocial added it was not a letter (that
was) expressly thinking about them.
MICHAEL K. LAVERS
Russian court stops deportation of gay journalist
A Russian court this week stopped the deportation of a gay journalist who claims he
would be tortured in his native Uzbekistan.
Police on Aug. 1 detained Khudoberdi Nurmatov, a reporter for the independent
Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta who writes under the pen name Ali Feruz, in Moscow.
Novaya Gazeta reported Nurmatov, who was born in Russia but grew up in Uzbekistan,
ed the former Soviet republic in 2008 after authorities kidnapped him from his home
and tortured him because of his political views. Nurmatov has been trying to receive
asylum in Russia for more than two years.
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
I N T E RN A T I O N A L N E W S
KHUDOBERDI NURMATOV, a gay reporter for the Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta who
writes under the pen name Ali Feruz, says he would face torture in his native Uzbekistan if
Russian authorities deport him.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALI FERUZS FACEBOOK PAGE
The European Court of Human Rights on Aug. 4 blocked Nurmatovs deportation,
pending the outcome of his appeal. Radio Free Europe reported the Moscow City Court
ruled Russian authorities cannot deport Nurmatov until the European Court of Human
Rights issues its ruling.
Russia, which is a member of the Council of Europe, is a signatory to the European
Convention of Human Rights that created the European Court of Human Rights. A law
that President Vladimir Putin signed in 2015 allows Russias Constitutional Court to
decide whether the country should comply with rulings from the European Court of
Human Rights and other international judicial bodies.
Nurmatov last week reportedly tried to take his own life inside the courtroom after
a judge ordered his deportation, but bailis stopped him. Novaya Gazeta reported
Nurmatov has been beaten, Tasered and insulted with anti-gay slurs at the detention
center outside of Moscow in which he is being held.
Nurmatovs lawyer, Philip Shishov, on Tuesday in a statement said he saw huge
bruises on his clients body. Shishov added Nurmatov has formally accused a police
ocer who escorted him to the detention center after his arrest of beating and Tasering
him.
Shishov also said Nurmatov fears for his life and provocations that would lead to
reports of his alleged suicide.
The authorities must clearly ensure his security, said Shishov.
Novaya Gazeta in April began reporting on the anti-gay crackdown in Chechnya,
which is a semi-autonomous Russian republic in the North Caucuses.
Nurmatov will remain in custody until the court rules in his case.
MICHAEL K. LAVERS
Anti-gay lawmaker quits UK Labor Party
A British Nigerian lawmaker who called Toronto Pride marchers pedophiles has quit
the UK Labor Party.
Chika Amadi, who has been a member of the Harrow Council in Londons Harrow
Borough since 2014, has made headlines for her anti-gay messages on her social media
accounts.
The Labor Party last week suspended Amadis party membership over them. She quit
the Labor Party four days later.
No longer a Labour Councillor. No longer suspended. But still serving my community
free from the exclusive club Labour, tweeted Amadi on Aug. 4.
Having reected over some of my responses to abuses, & insults I received dis
week I admit that some of them were awfully worded, she wrote in separate tweets. I
apologise if they made you feel awful however, we must all respect everyones freedom
of thought and expression. Of course my tweets were misconstrued and my emphasis
remains we must protect children from nudity, forced labour & forced Marriage.
Charis Croft, chairman of Harrow Liberal Democrats, is calling for the Labor Party to
investigate why Amadi was selected to run as a Labor candidate in 2014 despite her
history of homophobia.
We are glad that Labour has taken the step of suspending Cllr. Amadi, but they
have some serious questions to answer about why they selected someone who had
expressed these repugnant and hurtful views in the rst place, said Croft. We repeat
our call for Cllr Amadi to stand down. Liberal Democrats believe in an open, welcoming
society and remarks such as those made by Cllr Amadi have no place in our borough or
anywhere else.
Following her resignation from the Labor Party, Amadi is now listed as an Independent
on the council.
BUNMI JOHNSON
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
N A T IO NA L NEW S
Transgender military ban: How did we get here?
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
strength and readiness, specically troop
numbers, will be put on hold. Meanwhile,
the Pentagon conrmed to the New York
Times Aug. 9 that it has not yet received
the trans guidance.
More pressing is possible nuclear
war. On Aug. 5, the United Nations
Security Council imposed tougher
economic sanctions on North Korea
after the isolated country tested two
intercontinental ballistic missiles.
China and Russia voted with the United
States, something of a diplomatic coup,
considering Chinas connections to North
Korea. Trump and his advisers had been
warned by President Obama and National
Security Adviser Susan Rice that Kim
Jong-un was developing a threatening
nuclear programa fact made more
concerning when the Washington Post
reported that North Korea has developed
a miniaturized nuclear weapon that can
t on top of an ICBM, which is capable of
reaching the United States. Los Angeles,
considered a prime target, is 5,935 miles
from North Korea.
North Korea best not make any more
threats to the United States, warned
Trump from his golf club in Bedminster,
N.J.They will be met with re and fury like
the world has never seen. He has been
very threatening beyond a normal
statement, Trump said of Kim Jong-un.
As I said, they will be met with re, fury
and frankly power the likes of which this
world has never seen before.
North Korea threatened a preemptive
strike creating enveloping re against
Guam, a sovereign U.S. territory thats
home to combined Navy and Air Force
forces at Joint Region Marianas, with
6,000 service members, a port for nuclear
submarines and other major military
forces and more than 162,000 Americans.
Last June, Guam held its rst LGBT Pride
parade with 150 people, including Guam
Legislature Speaker Benjamin Cruz.
While Mattis did not specically
mention tabling the transgender service
ban, it can be extrapolated that dealing
with such a major policy change would
be exceedingly disruptive during a time
of crisis, especially when a military leader
would want the ability to deploy all
available troops.
Meanwhile, GLAD and the National
Center for Lesbian Rights led a Doe v.
Trump lawsuit on Aug. 9 in federal court
in D.C., seeking an injunction against
Trumps directive to reinstate a ban.
President Trump is needlessly
attacking courageous transgender
service members who put their lives
on the line for our country, GLAD and
NCLR said in a press release. Trumps
eorts to reinstate the ban are already
Secretary of Defense JAMES MATTIS was
reportedly caught o guard by President
Trumps tweets on the trans military ban.
harming service members, who have
been blindsided and are scrambling
to deal with what this means for their
families and their futuresincluding the
loss of job security, retirement benets,
healthcare, and other serious harms.
The two LGBT-focused law rms note
that the military has already carefully
studied the ban, which led to former
Defense Secretary Ash Carter agreeing
to lift the ban on open trans service
in June 2016 after a RAND Study he
commissioned indicated there would
be no problems either with service or
limited costs for medical care. Thousands
of trans service members subsequently
came out and have been serving openly
without incident. The rms represent ve
of those active duty service members.
The lawsuit asserts that Trumps
tweeted directive violates the equal
protection and due process guarantees
of the Constitution, discriminates against
one group with no legitimate purpose and
contradicts the militarys own conclusion
that there is no reason for the ban.
Transgender service members also
relied on the continuity of the policy
after Mattis Jan. 12 conrmation hearing
in which he assured lawmakers that
he would not roll back the Obama
administration rules. Sen. Mazie
Hirono (D-Hawaii) asked specically if
Mattis thought there was anything innate
about being a woman or LGBT that would
disqualify them from serving in a lethal
force, Mattis said, No, The Hill reported.
We are heartened by Gen. Mattis
stated commitment during his testimony
not to reverse the profound progress
we have made in ensuring LGBT service
members and their families are able to
serve our nation with pride, American
Military Partner Association President
Ashley Broadway-Mack and OutServe-
SLDN Executive Director Matt Thorn said
in a joint statement.
So how did the White House, the
Defense Department and the LGBT
community come to this point, especially
after then-candidate Trump promised to
protect the LGBT community?
Thank you to the LGBT community!
I will ght for you while Hillary brings
in more people that will threaten your
freedoms and beliefs, he tweeted on
June 14, 2016.
Then there was his acceptance speech
at the Republican National Convention
on July 21, 2016. Only weeks ago, in
Orlando, Florida, 49 wonderful Americans
were savagely murdered by an Islamic
terrorist. This time the terrorist targeted
our LGBT community. As your president, I
will do everything in my power to protect
our LGBT citizens from the violence and
oppression of a hateful foreign ideology,
Trump said.
But that promise clashed with another
promise Trump made to his more reliable
base, the evangelical community, led by
Vice President Mike Pence and Family
Research Council President Tony Perkins.
The specic drive to repeal and
replace the open transgender service
commitment started behind the scenes
with a series of anti-LGBT nominations in
March and April, with the growing sense
that some military ocers were pressing
the chiefs to roll back the policy through
an amendment to the National Defense
Authorization Act. They found an opening
when on May 10, USA Today reported on
two transgender cadets at the Air Force
Academy and at West Point. That exposed
a glaring loophole in the accessions transgender individuals in the military.
policy, the procedure for accepting new
troops into service.
Currently, there is an Air Force Academy
cadet who has identied as a transgender
individual, said Lt. Col. Allen Heritage, an
academy spokesman, told USA Today. The
cadet can graduate. But, per the current
(Defense Department) transgender
policy, this cadet cannot commission into
the Air Force. However, we are strongly
recommending this individual for Air Force
civil service as an option for continued
service after the academy.
On May 21, USA Today reported on
a May 8 memo from Deputy Defense
Secretary Robert Work instructing the
service secretaries and chiefs of
the armed services to assess the
militarys readiness to begin accepting keep everything quiet. We were trying
transgender applicants on July 1, 2017.
Their assessments are due May 31.
The personnel policies of this
Department are designed to enhance the
warghting readiness and lethality of the
force that protects our country, Work
wrote. We do not intend to reconsider
prior decisions unless they cause
readiness problems that could lessen
A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 1 3
our ability to ght, survive and win on the
battleeld.
Brad Carson, a top Carter ocial for
military personnel and an advocate for
lifting the ban, told USA Today he was
concerned about how the other ordinary
memo, for a new administration, could be
interpreted.
This could be seen as an opportunity
to reconsider the policy, Carson said. It
is certainly possible, and it would invite
litigation. I do have full condence in
(Defense Secretary) Jim Mattis to do the
right thing here.
He was right. The articles exposing the
loophole in the accessions policy and
the May 8 memo, triggered a Religious
Right chain reaction, with the Heritage
Foundation reaching out to the Military
Times to follow up. This was also during
the same period that there was much
coverage of Chelsea Manning in the
media. On May 16, 85 conservative
leaders, many like Tony Perkins, head of
the Family Research Council, and scores of
retired anti-LGBT military ocers, issued a
statement opposing transgender service.
Conservative leaders urgently suggest
that the Trump Administration review
and rescind the Obama-era policies that
hinder military readiness and overall
eectiveness, the statement said.
Politically correct policies have been
imposed largely through administrative
at. They can be removed in like manner
while further study and congressional
guidance is obtained. The most
problematic policies in this category
are those addressing the presence of
That was enough to motivate a number
of religious Republican conservatives in
the House led by Rep. Duncan Hunter
of California and Rep. Vicki Hartzler
from Missouri to launch a series of
amendments to the NDAA.
By now, Freedom Caucus chair Mark
Meadows of North Carolina, Mo Brooks
from Alabama, Steve King from Iowa, and
Trent Franks from Arizona were involved.
Meanwhile, Perkins, along with his
colleagues Ken Blackwell and Lt. Gen.
Jerry Boykin (ret), went to Vice President
Mike Pence who agreed to step in and
help if he could, according to a source
with knowledge of the situation.
The LGBT movement leadership
knew what was going on but tried to
desperately to get to May 31 because
we knew at that point the accessions
policy would be locked into place by the
Pentagon, said a source who asked to
remain anonymous. Then it was just
a simple matter of letting it ride until
Secretar Mattis signed o on it.
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
NEWS
Anti-LGBT groups on rise with Trump in White House
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
after the U.S. House under Republican
control, no less rejected a narrower
measure to undermine transgender
service by denying military funds for
transition-related health care.
Trumps declaration came after intense
lobbying by anti-LGBT lawmakers and
groups, who threatened to withhold
support from major defense spending
legislation unless the White House acted.
That bill includes funds for Trumps wall
on the U.S.-Mexico border.
Tony Perkins, president of the Family
Research Council, said in a statement after
Trumps announcement on transgender
service his organization would withdraw
its opposition to border wall payments.
Now that we are assured that the
Defense Department has its scal
priorities in order, Family Research
Council withdraws our opposition to
increasing the budget of the Department
of Defense through the Make America
Secure Appropriations Act and looks
forward to seeing that legislation pass,
Perkins said.
Although Trump despite entreaties
from social conservatives hasnt
signed an executive order circulating
among federal agencies and advocacy
groups that would enable sweeping
anti-LGBT discrimination in the name of
religious freedom, he did pen his name
to a directive empowering U.S. Attorney
General Je Sessions to issue guidance
ensuring religious liberty.
Critics say thats a red herring that
could lead the U.S. government to give
the OK for discrimination among federal
contractors, private employer denial of
family and medical leave to same-sex
couples and federal workers refusing
to process paperwork for LGBT people.
Sessions had already stated the directive
would be based on the Religious Freedom
Restoration Act, a 1993 law meant to
preserve the rights of religious minorities
thats now used as an excuse for anti-
LGBT discrimination.
It remains to be seen when the
administration will issue the guidance and
the nature of the policy. On his weekly
radio show late last month, Perkins said
action would come soon and the U.S.
government will be on notice that they
have to respect religious freedom
code for social conservatives to mean
anti-LGBT discrimination.
Also in line with the goals of anti-LGBT
groups was the recent ling by the Justice
Department asserting lesbian, gay and
bisexual people have no protections
under Title VII of the Civil Rights of Act.
That voluntary brief rejected a growing
consensus among federal district courts
and the U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals
that sexual orientation discrimination is a
form of sex discrimination.
Daniel Pinello, a political scientist at
the City University of New Yorks John
Jay College of Criminal Justice, is among
those who say theres a resurgence of
anti-LGBT-group inuence under the
Trump administration.
People like Tony Perkins of the
Family Research Council gure far more
prominently in White House policy making
now, Pinello said. Indeed, Perkins
personally crafted the Republican Partys
2016 national platform with regard to social
issues. President Trump is delivering on
that documents promise through actions
such as the (gestating) transgender military
ban and the Justice Departments legal
brief arguing against sexual orientation
discriminations being encompassed within
the 1964 Civil Rights Acts prohibition of
sex-based discrimination.
These anti-LGBT actions would
be unheard of during the Obama
administration, which sought over the
course of eight years to enhance LGBT
rights and never acted to inhibit them
(although the progress was sometimes
too slow for LGBT rights supporters
demanding immediate change.) To nd
similar anti-LGBT policy, one would have
to look back to the anti-gay administration
of former President George W. Bush, who
used his bully pulpit to advocate for a
nationwide ban on same-sex marriage.
Moreover, these anti-LGBT acts from
the Trump administration subvert the will
of the public at large, which consistently
voices majority support for LGBT rights.
On the issue of transgender military
service, for example, a Quinnipiac poll
earlier this month found U.S. voters say
by a margin of 6827 percent, including
5539 percent among voters in military
households, that transgender people
should be allowed to serve.
Also seeing a rise in inuence among
anti-LGBT groups is Heidi Beirich,
intelligence project director for the
Southern Poverty Law Center, which has
included groups like the Family Research
Council and Alliance Defending Freedom
among its list of hate groups.
There is no question that they have
access to this administration and are
getting policies passed that are their
preference in a way that we havent seen
maybe ever, Beirich said.
Invoking Trumps own unique
terminology, Beirich said, If anybody is
winning big-ly from Trumps policies, its
these folks, right? Its the anti-LGBT hate
groups and their various allies among
conservatives.
Trump enacts these policies amid a
seemingly open-door rule at the White
House for social conservatives with anti-
LGBT records. The list is long of times
when Trump welcomed them into the
A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 1 7
White House for photo opportunities and session in the Oval Oce many of the same
special occasions. people as well as Perkins and American
On May 3, the eve of the National evangelical leader Gary Bauer. Also in
Day of Prayer, Trump allowed into the attendance were Skyline Church Pastor Jim
Oval Oce evangelical leaders many Garlow, who called being LGBT a perversity,
of whom have anti-LGBT records and Bishop Harry Jackson, a pastor at the
including Franklin Graham, who recently Maryland-based Hope Christian Church
called for a boycott of the animated who attempted to stop the legalization of
Beauty and the Beast over the inclusion same-sex marriage in D.C.
of a gay character, as well as Focus on the These Oval Oce visits say nothing
Family founder James Dobson, former about the interactions between ocials
Rep. Michele Bachmann and Faith & within the Trump administration and
Freedom Coalition Chair Ralph Reed. anti-LGBT groups. Vice President Mike
Reed, who once compared marriage Pence delivered a speech to Focus on the
equality to slavery and its opponents to Family upon its anniversary, Kellyanne
abolitionists, tweeted out a photo of him Conway gave a speech at the Family
with rst daughter Ivanka Trump, who Leaders summit in Iowa and Sessions
has professed to be an LGBT ally despite gave closed-door remarks to Alliance
the anti-LGBT actions of her fathers Defending Freedom.
administration. Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of the LGBT media
Great to be with @realDonaldTrump @ watchdog group GLAAD, has monitored
IvankaTrump & VP Pence at faith advisory the level of access these groups enjoy
board meeting at the White House tonite, with Trump in the White House.
Reed tweeted.
On July 10, Trump invited for a prayer
Obituary
David Antony Trujillo, 52
David Antony Trujillo died at his home in Miami on July 22 of cancer according
to his partner, Bobby Gaines, who was with him when he died. He was 52.
Trujillo was born Nov. 4, 1964 in Hawaii. His family moved to the Washington
area after he nished high school in Texas. He graduated from Columbia
University in 1986 having studied economics and psychology. He studied
economics in international business at Georgetown University where he
graduated in 1991.
He and Gaines met in Washington in 2000 and started dating in 2008, Gaines
said. Trujillo battled cancer the last year of his life. He and Gaines, whod become
domestic partners in 2014, were planning to wed.
He died peacefully at home with his dog, Scrappy, by his side, Gaines said.
Trujillo is survived by his parents Fermin and Cristela (Cantu) Trujillo of Silver
Spring, Md., brother Trini Alexander Trujillo of Hawaii, sisters Debbie Ann Young
and her husband Jim of Baltimore and Jessica Leilani Eshghi and her husband Ali
of Gaithersburg, Md., as well as a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
An informal beach memorial service is being planned.
JOEY DiGUGLIELMO
 WASHINGTONBLADE.COM

18 A U G U S T 11, 2017 BA LT I MO RE N E W S
I love wandering through
Smithsonian museums, eating
on H Street with friends, and going
to shows at Howard Theatre.

Trans community tackles homelessness

Im a The Baltimore Transgender Alliance (BTA) is scally sponsoring HostHome, a
transgender woman donor-powered hosting network of guests, hosts and patrons, in an eort to
and Im part of DC. address unstably housed members of Baltimores LGBT community as well as
the stigma associated with housing instability. HostHome is one of the few trans-
led tech startups in the world.
HostHome is turbo charging the informal hosting economy within the LGBT
community, said Ava Pipitone, executive director of BTA. We are already doing
Please treat me the way any this. I dont know another queer woman who hasnt had a younger sibling on
woman would want to be treated: their sofa at one point or another. We are bringing this network above ground.
with courtesy and respect. Pipitone explained that BTA will seek institutional partners for patron
Discrimination based on gender identity and
expression is illegal in the District of Columbia.
donations, various pipelines to employment and further resources for guests.
If you think youve been the target of
All hosts are compensated and connected into the network of resources.
discrimination, visit www.ohr.dc.gov We need more hosts, anyone can host. Hosts will be placed in our network
or call (202) 727-4559.
based on competency certications and capacity. Guests are exposed to more
resources as they repeat stays, she says.
Donations as small as $25 will go directly to the hosts. To donate, visit
OFFICE OF

GLBT youcaring.com/hosthome-892854.
AFFAIRS

Care giving to be discussed at Prime Timers

Show your support! Spread word of the #TransRespect
campaign by photographing this ad and sharing on Twitter.
Monte Ephraim of Chase Brexton Health Care will be the guest speaker at
Sundays Prime Timers of Baltimore monthly general meeting. It will take place
beginning at 6 p.m. at St. Marks Lutheran Church, St. Paul & 20th Streets in
Baltimore.
Last year, the Maryland Legislature joined a majority of other states in passing
the CARE (Caregiver Advise, Record and Enable) ACT. This requires hospitals
at admission to ask each patient if they would like to designate a caregiver.
Oncethat designation is made and recorded the hospital has the responsibility
to notify the designee of discharge planning and to provide instruction on the
tasks a caregiver may need to perform at home.
Ephraim will explain the act and how to take advantage of its provisions as
well as reviewing the LGBT 50+ services at Chase Brexton,
For more information, contact Ralph Welch at president@ptbalto.org.

Queer Love Summer Cookout set

The Baltimore Transgender Alliance (BTA) will host a Queer Love Summer
Cookout on Saturday beginning at noon at Druid Hill Parks Chinese pavilion.
There will be live music, food, games and prizes, and a welcoming environment.
Performances will include Monica Stevens, Coco Nicole, Tyger Black St. James,
Chaz Monroe, DJ Sean Smallwood and others.
Queer Love Cookout is a BTA event in collaboration with TransBaltimore and
Sistas of The T that celebrates love, life and living, KeyAyshia Tucker, operations
coordinator for Baltimore Trans Alliance and founder of Trans Baltimore, says.
We are not mourning we are coming together to celebrate life strength and
unity.

BTAC 2017! regional conference on tap

Black Transmen Inc. and Black Transwomen Inc. along with Black Trans
Advocacy, Maryland Chapter will host the BTAC2017 regional conference on
Aug. 19. The free event will take place at the Radisson Hotel Baltimore Hotel
Downtown-Inner Harbor.
Organizers welcome all transgender, gender non-conforming and allies
to nd support for your transition, build valuable relationships, expand your
impact, and have a great time with like-minded peers.
Guests should to register at blacktrans.org.
The BTAC Regional is an opportunity to strengthen community and build
relationships with family and allies, Br. Merrick Moses, chapter president, Black
Trans Advocacy/Black Trans Men, Inc, says.
For more information, contact Black Trans MD/DC at btac@blacktrans.org.
STEVE CHARING
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM Keep your promise to protect each other.
HE A LTH NEW S A U G U S T 11, 2017 19

U.K. vending machine offers HIV testing

BRIGHTON, England A new vending machine that gives HIV test results in 15
minutes has been installed at a sauna in Brighton, a seaside resort town about
an hour south of London, the Argus, a newspaper in East Sussex, reports.
The machine, installed at the Brighton Sauna (a gay sauna) by the Martin
Fisher Foundation and BioSure, was conceived to oer convenient, condential
and discreet testing. It uses digital, touch-screen technology.
The test involves a nger prick blood sample and the user gets a result in 15
minutes. The service will be available 24 hours a day and is free.
Funding was awarded to the Brighton and Hove-based foundation by Public
Health Englands HIV prevention innovation fund. Brighton and Hove has become
the rst U.K. cities to be awarded Fast Track City status, the Argus reports.
This is a global initiative uniting cities across the world aiming end the risk of Wills & Trusts
HIV being a public health threat.
The goals are to have 90 percent of people living with HIV being diagnosed, 90 Powers of Attorney Living Wills
percent on treatment and 90 percent of those must be virally suppressed, the Partnership & Prenuptial Agreements
Argus reports.
Experts say self-testing empowers individuals to test themselves in private (240) 778-2330 (703) 536-0220
and convenient settings and helps normalize the conversation about HIV, the
Argus reports. www.PartnerPlanning.com
St. Louis trans youth clinic opens Serving the LGBT Community
SAN FRANCISCO A new health clinic for transgender youth has opened in St. Louis,
in DC/MD/VA since 1983
Mo., the Seeker, a science and tech digital media publisher that targets Millennials,
reports.
The Transgender Center of Excellence, a joint eort of the Washington University and
Lawrence S. Jacobs/McMillan Metro, PC
St. Louis Childrens Hospital is part of a growing network of about 40 clinics nationwide
serving trans youth and their families, the Seeker reports.
Diane Ehrensaft, clinical psychologist and mental health director of the Child and
Adolescent Gender Center Clinic at the University of California, San Francisco, said that
when they rst opened their facility ve years ago, she could count on one hand the
number of clinics providing services to the transgender community, the Seeker reports.
DentalBug.com
At both the San Francisco and St. Louis clinics, adolescents have access to physicians, Cosmetic, Implants, Sleep Apnea, Sedation
as well as psychologists, dermatologists, voice therapists and plastic surgeons. Housing
all of these services under one roof makes the provision of care easier and more CALL TODAY WEEKEND HOURS MULTILINGUAL
comprehensive, the Seeker reports.
As much as transgender youth face many of the same health issues as any adolescent, We believe we can make the
they are are at much higher risk of depression suicidal thoughts, substance use, and dental experience better.
homelessness compared to their non-transgender peers. Almost half of transgender
or gender non-conforming youth aged 18-24 attempted suicide, according to the 2014
National Transgender Discrimination Survey, which is why doctors emphasize access to
mental health services.
From January to May of 2017, founder Chris Lewis and his colleagues have seen
about 70 patients through their individual practices. They estimate that by the end of
the year, they will see hundreds more through the newly opened clinic. Despite opening
only one weekago, the facility is booked through September, the Seeker reports.
DentalBug Sta 2016-2017
New Cleveland clinic offers gay programming ADVERTISING
PROOF #1 ISSUE DATE: 10.26.12 SALES REPRESENTATIVE: BRIAN PITTS (bpitts@washblade.com)
CLEVELAND Care for medically underserved gay and bisexual men is one of REVIEW AD FOR COPY AND DESIGN ACCURACY. Revisions must be submitted within 24 hours of the date of
the components of the new Center for Mens Health at the Cleveland Clinic, Patch
REVISIONS
proof. Proof will be considered final and will be submitted for publication if revision is not submitted within 24 hours of
the date of proof. Revisions will not be accepted after 12:01 pm wednesday, the week of publication.Brown naff pitts
Cleveland reports. REDESIGN
omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) is not responsible for the content and/or design of your ad. Advertiser is
responsible for any legal liability arising out of or relating to the advertisement, and/or any material to which users
can link through the advertisement. Advertiser represents that its advertisement will not violate any criminal laws or
Although dedicated to a wide range of mens health issues such as erectile TEXT REVISIONS any rgihts of third parties, including, but not limited to, such violations as infringement or misapporpriation of any
IMAGE/LOGO REVISIONS copyright, patent, trademark, trade secret, music, image, or other proprietary or propety right, false advertising, unfair
dysfunction, low testosterone, prostate issues, et. al., the Center is working directly
NO REVISIONS
competition, defamation, invasion of privacy or rights of celebrity, violation of anti-discrimination law or regulation,
Jeanette Suh or any other right ofJohn anyTsaknis
person or entity. Advertiser agrees to idemnify brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the ADVERTISER SIGNATURE
DMD washington blade) and to
with the Cleveland Clinics LGBT Clinic at the Lakewood Family Health Center to
hold brown naff pitts omnimedia llc (dba the washington blade) harmless from any and all
DDS By signing this proof you are agreeing to your contr
liability, loss, damages, claims, or causesIndra Mustapha
of action, including reasonable legal fees and expenses that may be incurred washington blade newspaper. This includes but is n

address care barriers for gay and bi men, Patch reports.

Maria
by
and
brownHodas
DDS
DDS,
naff pitts omnimedia llc, arising out
warranties.
of or related
CALL FOR
MS to advertisers breach of any of the foregoing representations payment and insertion schedule.

Standard mens health questionnaires are geared toward straight men, although
the symptoms associated with certain conditions like erectile dysfunction or side
RESERVATIONS
eects from urological surgeries such as a radical prostatectomy can aect gay men
dierently. The Center for Mens Health will examine new ways to tailor care for this
patient population, Patch reports.
The center also oers the latest in urological technology, including low-intensity shock M-TH 11:30AM-10PM F-SAT 11:30AM-11PM
SUN. BRUNCH 11AM-3PM / DINNER 3-10PM
wave therapy to treat erectile dysfunction and chronic pelvic pain. The treatment is designed
to improve low penile blood ow and is the rst technology to target the underlying problem 1221 Mass. Ave, NW 202.628.7979 (Free Parking)
erectile dysfunction instead of treating the symptoms, Patch reports. 322 MASS. AVE. NE 202.543.7656
703 D Street, NW 202.628.1288
LEnfant Plaza,SW Promenade #325 202.628.2177 CAFEBERLIN-DC.COM

2 0 A UGUST 1 1 , 2017
A politics to reclaim America
We must repudiate Trumps
rule-by-resentment
RICHARD J. ROSENDALL is a writer and activist.
Reach him at rrosendall@starpower.net.
It was an unreal week. I learned that a
whining phone call from President Chaos
to Mexicos Enrique Pea Nieto was not
a hoax. I watched Jared Kushner sound
like Gilbert Gottfried with help from John
Oliver. I watched Martin Shkreli turn his
fraud conviction into an odd celebration. I
wrote a sonnet channeling Anthony Scar-
amucci in an update of The New Colos-
sus by Emma Lazarus. I took refuge in a
fantasy novel containing no references to
a mobbed-up real estate developer and
his campaign to destroy America. I heard
our attorney general declare, We will not
allow rogue anonymous sources with se-
curity clearances to sell out our country.
(That job belongs to the president.)
Trump and his crew, who trail him like
remoras on a shark, are so desperate to
deect attention from Robert Muellers
newly impaneled Washington grand jury
that they demand another investiga-
tion of Hillary Clinton. (As former Solici-
tor General Walter Dellinger asks, How
long can they keep running against a
retired grandmother?) Here is America
in twilight. Let us be clear on one thing:
Trump can invade Mexico and slaughter
its entire population before they will pay
a single peso for his ridiculous wall.
I wonder if Trump is playing mind
games with us by attacking his own allies
while hiring generals to rein in the disor-
der he created. The Republican Senate
is holding a series of pro forma sessions
to block Trump from making recess ap-
pointments during August. Meanwhile,
Trump went on a 17-day vacation. As
Dorothy Parker said after Calvin Coolidge
died, how could they tell?
The Justice Departments search for
leakers (which, to be honest, is not so
dierent from eorts during the Obama
administration) ignores questions of high
treason to focus on turnstile jumping.
The Leaker in Chief (if youll pardon the
expression) spilled secrets in the Oval Of-
E DIT OR IA L C A R T OON
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
VIEWPOINT
ce while boasting to the Russian ambas-
sador and foreign minister. Heres a new
adage: Loose tweets sink eets. But the
only leaks Trump cares about are those
that hurt him, which could be considered
acts of patriotism.
You can be building castles in the air
that have no reference to reality, says
Charles Kesler of the Claremont Institute
to the New York Times on the danger of
assigning an ideology to Trumps impul-
sive transactionalism. But cloud castles
are not only the province of the white
nationalists and isolationists who are us-
ing and being used by the 45th president.
Many on the left seem unwilling to vote
for anyone who could actually get elect-
ed. They demand instant utopia instead
of committing to the long, persistent en-
gagement that produces reform.
Dealing with reality does not mean sur-
rendering to the status quo but applying
the leverage to create change. It requires
connecting with others where they are, in
order to chart a forward path together, and
using public resources and mechanisms to
help the many, not just the few. Diversity
is a social reality, not a mere slogan. It re-
quires cooperation and compromise.
Translating the anti-Trump resis-
tance into congressional victories will be
tough given Republican gerrymander-
ing. Democrats can echo Harry Trumans
1948 campaign against a do-nothing
Congress, whose main eort so far this
year was trying to take healthcare away
from millions. Even if Democrats retake
the House, though, they wont win the 67
Senate votes to remove Trump. But they
could use Trumps continuation in oce
to remind workers that he betrayed them
by lling his cabinet with plutocrats and
lied about stopping job exports.
A crucial task, if our country is to be gov-
ernable, is repudiating Trumps dysfunction
and division. While confronting hard truths,
we must appeal to our better angels.
What the ght ahead requires is inspi-
ration like Obamas, not calculation like
Clintons. (Remember, one of them won
the presidency twice while the other lost
twice.) Democrats need a campaign slo-
gan more resonant than A Better Deal,
which is about as stirring as the small
print in a pharmaceutical ad. To be eec-
tive, our message should reject Trumps
rule-by-resentment while conveying
a positive vision. Heres a suggestion:
Working for All of Us.
It is time for a politics of addition.
Copyright 2017 by Richard J.
Rosendall. All rights reserved.
VOLUME 48 ISSUE 32
ADDRESS
PO Box 53352
Washington DC 20009
PHONE
202-747-2077
E-MAIL
news@washblade.com
INTERNET
washingtonblade.com
PUBLISHED BY
Brown Na Pitts Omnimedia, Inc.
PUBLISHER
LYNNE J. BROWN
lbrown@washblade.com ext. 8075
EDITORIAL
EDITOR
KEVIN NAFF
kna@washblade.com ext. 8088
FEATURES EDITOR
JOEY DIGUGLIELMO
joeyd@washblade.com ext. 8081
SR. NEWS REPORTER
LOU CHIBBARO JR.
lchibbaro@washblade.com ext. 8079
NEWS REPORTER
CHRIS JOHNSON
cjohnson@washblade.com ext. 8083
REPORTER & INTERNATIONAL NEWS EDITOR
MICHAEL K. LAVERS
mlavers@washblade.com
POP CULTURE REPORTER
MARIAH COOPER
PHOTO EDITOR
MICHAEL KEY
mkey@washblade.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
PETER ROSENSTEIN, MARK LEE,
LATEEFAH WILLIAMS, KATE CLINTON,
KATHI WOLFE, RICHARD J. ROSENDALL,
MAXIMILLIAN SYCAMORE
CREATIVE DESIGN/PRODUCTION
AZERCREATIVE.COM
SALES & ADMINISTRATION
DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING
STEPHEN RUTGERS
srutgers@washblade.com ext. 8077
SR. ACCT. EXECUTIVE
BRIAN PITTS
bpitts@washblade.com ext. 8089
ACCT. EXECUTIVE
JOE HICKLING
jhickling@washblade.com ext. 8094
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING/ADMINISTRATION
PHILLIP G. ROCKSTROH
prockstroh@washblade.com ext. 8092
NATIONAL ADVERTISING
RIVENDELL MEDIA
212-242-6863; sales@rivendellmedia.com
For distribution, contact Lynne Brown at 202-747-2077,
ext. 8075. Distributed by MediaPoint, LLC
All material in the Washington Blade is protected by federal copyright law
and may not be reproduced without the written consent of the Washing-
ton Blade. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers
and cartoonists published herein is neither inferred nor implied. The
appearance of names or pictorial representation does not necessarily
indicate the sexual orientation of that person or persons. Although the
Washington Blade is supported by many ne advertisers, we cannot ac-
cept responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Unsolicited editorial
material is accepted by the Washington Blade, but the paper cannot take
responsibility for its return. The editors reserve the right to accept, reject
or edit any submission. A single copy of the Washington Blade is available
from authorized distribution points, to any individual within a 50-mile ra-
dius of Washington, D.C. Multiple copies are available from the Washington
Blade oce only. Call for rates. If you are unable to get to a convenient
free distribution point, you may receive a 52-week mailed subscription for
$195 per year or $5.00 per single issue. Checks or credit card orders can be
sent to Phil Rockstroh at prockstroh@washblade.com. Postmaster: Send
address changes to the Washington Blade, PO BOX 53352 Washington,
DC 20009. The Washington Blade is published weekly, on Friday, by
Brown Na Pitts Omnimedia, Inc. Individual Subscriptions are $195
per year for 52 issues (only $3.75 per issue mailed to you USPS). Rates
for businesses/institutions are $450 per year. Periodical postage paid
at Washington, D.C., and additional mailing oces. Editorial positions
of the Washington Blade are expressed in editorials and in editors
notes as determined by the papers editors. Other opinions are those
of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinion of the
Washington Blade or its sta. To submit a letter or commentary: Let-
ters should be fewer than 400 words; commentaries should be fewer
than 750 words. Submissions may be edited for content and length,
and must include a name, address and phone number for verication.
Send submissions by e-mail to kna@washblade.com.
2017 BROWN NAFF PITTS OMNIMEDIA, INC.
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
V I E W PO I N T
The price is right: Paid leave strengthens our families
20 years after FMLA,
lets take next step in
supporting workers
By MARY BETH MAXWELL
Its been 24 years since Congress en-
acted the Family and Medical Leave Act
(FMLA), recognizing that workers should
not have to choose between the job they
need and the family members they love.
Two decades later, millions of Americans
have benetted from FMLAs guarantees.
From parental leave for childbirth and
adoption to medical leave for workers,
the law protects many of us during some
of lifes most signicant events and our
families and workplaces are stronger for it.
At the same time, we must now recog-
nize that these codied protections are not
enough. Because FMLA leave is unpaid and
only applies to some workers, many others
are still forced to make the dicult decision
between being there for loved ones or re-
turning to work out of nancial necessity.
Sixteen years ago, I became especially
V I E W PO I NT
Drug importation policy is a hard pill to swallow
Meds purchased online
are oftencounterfeit
By BRANDON MACSATA
When I rst heard the news that Con-
gress was considering legislation that
would allow prescription drugs to be im-
ported from abroad, Iwas honestly quite
shocked. I know rsthand how such poli-
cy can negativelyimpact consumers who
decide to purchase drugs from abroad.
The potential consequences are quite
daunting.
In 2002 (just shy of my 30th birthday), I
was diagnosed with HIV.When my doctor
told me the news, a hundred questions
came to mind all at once. What was my
long-term prognosis? What types of med-
ications would Ihave totake? Who could I
turn to with my questions about life with
HIV?
What happened next directly shaped
my viewpoint of the dangers associat-
edwith importation.
I ordered medications from an online
Canadian pharmacy. To this day, I have
no way of knowing where the drugs were
aware of this reality as a new mother to
my son, Coleman. Then living paycheck
to paycheck on an organizers salary, I
was extremely fortunate to receive three
months of paid parental leave after Cole-
man joined our family. Looking back, I
cherish those 12 weeks not just because
of the time spent with my newborn son,
but especially since I would have been un-
able to take the time o amounting to
a quarter of my annual income without
the support of paid leave.
Unfortunately, the decision to return to
work is even harder on families undergoing
unexpected and even more trying circum-
stances. In 2017, too many Americans are
forced to take on debt or fundraise for do-
nations just to cover the bills as they or a
loved one ght cancer, recover from an ac-
cident, or battle serious illness, simply due
to the unpaid time away from work.
LGBTQ people are especially impacted by
the lack of paid leave protections, in large
part due to the wide diversity of our families.
For instance, while some forward-thinking
employers now provide paid maternity
leave for expectant mothers, these benets
made or if they contained the active in-
gredients I needed to eectively treat my
condition.
At the time, I opted not to consult my
physician in the process. Due to myinsur-
ance coverage, my out-of-pocket cost was
$1,300 during the secondmonth of treat-
ment. For two months, I received medica-
tions via mail from Canada. Honestly, I
didnt even entertain the idea of whether
themedicines were real or fake.
Fortunately, my doctor intervened and
advised me of the reality of what I was
doing. She told me that drugs purchased
through online channels are oftencoun-
terfeit and most likely do not contain any
ingredients that help patients. In many
cases, the ingredients can be deadly.
Without even knowing it, I was rollingthe
dice with my health and safety. It was an
eye-opening intervention and one that
too few patients ever experience before
irreparable damage has beendone.
Without question, we need to address
the issue of rising health care costs in
the United States, which greatly contrib-
utes to patients buying medicines on-
line. However, legalizing importation isnt
thesolution we need. Itwill undoubtedly
lead more patients to risk their health
do not always extend equally to fathers or
non-biological parents. Whether led by two
dads, two moms, stepparents or other rela-
tives, all families deserve the chance to care
for one another a point I am especially
aware of as the gay mom of an adopted
son. Uniform and inclusive protections for
paid leave can ensure that all parents have
the opportunity to bond with their children
and be there for them should they have to
undergo serious medical treatment.
Similarly, we can also do better to stand
with LGBTQ individuals with healthcare
needs that disproportionately impact our
community. Paid leave can be a vital need
for transgender people undergoing surgery
and for individuals receiving treatment for
HIV & AIDS-related medical conditions; it
can also allow other family members or
caretakers to more easily support them
during recovery. Inclusive policies can also
improve quality of life for LGBTQ elders,
who often rely on the care of non-related
friends or neighbors. And nally, paid leave
can even aid survivors of domestic violence
and sexual assault, both of which dispro-
portionately impact LGBTQ individuals, by
and, ultimately, their lives through online
drug purchases.
Consider the following: The World
Health Organization estimates that
10percent of medicines across the world
are fake. In some parts of theworld, this
number is as high as 30 percent. In 2015,
Interpol conscatednearly 21 million fake
medicines, a signicant increase over the
previousyear.
As a society, why would we take our
guard down when the threat is so high?As
someone who is informed on health care
issues (even at the time of mydiagnosis),
my search for Canadian pharmacies did
little to warn me against the dangers. I
had little knowledge or available informa-
tion when I ordered medications from
Canada.
Rather than open the oodgates to un-
regulated medicines, we should bedoing
more to ensure the safety and integrity of
our drug supply. Last month,former FBI
Director Louis Freeh released a report
highlighting the incentives that drug im-
portation would create for criminals who
are actively marketing to consumers in
the U.S. and the burden it would placeon
law enforcement who protect our drug
supply.
A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 2 1
providing more time for physical and men-
tal recovery before they return to work.
During my tenure at the Labor Depart-
ments Wage and Hour Division, the agency
overseeing FMLA enforcement, I was proud
to be part of the Obama administrations
eorts to ensure the laws protections are
fully inclusive of LGBTQ families. But in
2017, when the U.S. remains the only devel-
oped country not to guarantee paid leave,
we can do much better to support our co-
workers, friends and loved ones.
No one should ever have to decide be-
tween their family and their job and
nor should they feel worried about mak-
ing ends meet during some of lifes most
challenging situations. As I look back at
the positive impact of the FMLA on the
lives of millions of Americans, I also look
forward to a time when we can celebrate
the enactment of paid leave for all. Itll be
a time when families like yours and mine
can feel safer, healthier and happier
both at home and at work.
MARY BETH MAXWELL is HRCs senior vice
president for Programs, Research and Training.
Among his recommendations to be
proactive on the issue, Freeh urges poli-
cymakers to conduct a detailed assess-
ment of lawenforcements readiness and
ability to get in front of the threat thatex-
ists. I completelyagree with Freeh this
should be our focus.
As we strengthen our defenses, we
must also prioritize patient educa-
tionand engagement initiatives to ensure
that were deterring importation fromthe
moment of diagnosis. The reality is that a
number of onlinepharmacies with a Ca-
nadian ag attached to them are merely
front doors for smugglers operating in
countries across the globe.
There are viable ideas to combat the
rising cost of healthcare including pre-
scription medications but importation is
not one of them.
Over the past two decades, weve made
signicant progress againstHIV/AIDS. To-
day, there are medications avail
BRANDON MACSATA is CEO of The ADAP
Advocacy Association, an organization that
promotes and enhances the AIDS Drug
Assistance Programs (ADAPs), as well as
improves access to care for persons living with
HIV/AIDS.

2 2 A UGUST 1 1 , 2017
We dont need another rich businessman for president
Delaneys long-term
ego trip in Iowa isnt
going to help anyone
PETER ROSENSTEIN is a D.C.-based LGBT rights
and Democratic Party activist. He writes regularly
for the Blade.
We really dont need another rich busi-
nessman for president. Thats what I
thought upon learning that Rep. John K.
Delaney announced he is running in 2020
and in essence moving to Iowa now.
That belief was further strengthened
looking at his website and statement,
Why Im Running for President, By John
K. Delaney. It reads, The American people
are far greater than the sum of our politi-
cal parties. It is time for us to rise above
our broken politics and renew the spirit
that enabled us to achieve the seemingly
impossible. This is why I am running for
the Democratic nomination for President
Celebrating National Health Center Week
Chase Brexton joins 1,200
sister orgs in providing care
By NATE SWEENEY
Next week, Chase Brexton Health Care
will join more than 1,200 sister organiza-
tions across the country in celebration
of the national community health center
program, which has served more than 24
million one in 15 people nationwide.
Chase Brexton has the honor of being
among a few historically LGBTQ commu-
nity health centers to also be a Federally
Qualied Health Center (FQHC). As with
every FQHC, we welcome all individuals
with open arms. As an LGBTQ institution,
we work to ensure our LGBTQ patients,
sta and community members are given
the most culturally competent and rel-
evant support.
The work we do as an LGBTQ communi-
ty health center is vital. So vital, that when
our organization was struggling through
its own internal changes, our LGBTQ pa-
tients and supporters reminded us of the
vulnerability of our LGBTQ patients and
of the United States. Hell, if the politics of
the Democratic Party are so broken why
ght for its nomination?
In reality, Delaney wants to weaken the
Democratic Party and its ability to choose
its standard bearers. He introduced the
Open Our Democracy Act (H.R. 2981 in
the 115th Congress). This bill, which went
nowhere, proposed to make election day
a federal holiday, make all congressional
primary elections open elections so all
eligible voters can participate in them,
and to end gerrymandering by requiring
independent commissions to draw the
districts in each state. Guess he forgot
he won his seat because of gerrymander-
ing/redistricting. I would question why
he wants the Democratic nomination for
president and then wants to open up all
primaries. What is the point of a political
party if anyone, without being a member,
can choose who will represent the party
in a general election?
There is nothing original on Delaneys
website. A few overused platitudes and
then you get to read what turns out to be
the principles of the 2016 Democratic Party
platform. Statements like, Our govern-
ment is hamstrung by excessive partisan-
ship. We are letting critical opportunities to
improve the country pass us by. And we are
not even talking about the most important
the incredible need Chase Brexton lls.
The call for competent, compassionate,
and supportive care and resources was
signicant because the need is signicant.
As our nation struggles to align health
care needs with political designs, it is criti-
cal we remember the necessity of open,
welcoming care for all communities, but
especially LGBTQ communities that have
faced and continue to face signicant
health care obstacles.
More importantly, the losses for LG-
BTQ individuals should ACA be repealed
could be signicant. Under the ACA, the
rate of LGBT individuals without health
insurance fell from 34 percent to 11 per-
cent, according to Out2Enroll, a national
program founded to connect the LGBT
community with the options oered un-
der the ACA.
Cuts to Medicaid would leave thou-
sands of low-income LGBTQ individuals
and their families without access to af-
fordable health care coverage. Changes
would reduce or eliminate protections
against discrimination on the basis of
health status, including HIV status. The
loss or reduction of the Medicaid part
D extra coverage would essentially cre-
thing: the future. He then borrows liber-
ally from Hillary Clintons campaign when
he says, We need to be smarter, fueled Jersey and Virginia in 2017 and then a
by more investment in science, education
and research. We need new ideas on the
future of jobs and work, one where we
build a stronger and more vibrant middle
class. We need to encourage a more just
and inclusive form of capitalism and reduce
barriers to small-business formation, start-
ups, job creation, investment and growth.
We need to strengthen our safety-net pro-
grams and create a new social contract. We
need to reform the systems of education,
health care and immigration, and encour-
age more volunteerism, impact investing
and public service. And we need to take af-
rmative steps to reduce our security, scal am really just using him as an example
and climate risks. This is what my campaign
will be about.
One reason our politics is a mess is can-
didates like Delaney who think its a game
and you can buy a seat at the table or a
nomination. He has been in the Congress
a little over four years with no real accom- There are people across the nation want-
plishments and is clearly bored. Instead
of announcing for president why isnt Del-
aney working with the various committees
nationally and locally trying to elect Demo-
crats across the board if he believes in the
party enough to want to lead it?
We are facing a disaster with Donald
ate devastating eects on the health of
thousands of patients with HIV. Further,
federal protections related to sexual ori-
entation and gender identity which were
built into the Aordable Care Act would
all but disappear.
In the last 18 months, Chase Brexton
alone provided quality care, including
primary care, dental, behavioral health,
and social support, to approximately
40,000 patients. Of those patients, more
than 5,000 identify as LGB and more than
2,300 identify as trans or gender-diverse.
Our trans youth health care program,
GenderJOY, serves 840 patients, including
patients from out of state and even in-
ternationally. Community Health Centers
have long been on the forefront of LG-
BTQ care, and their array of services take
a whole person approach to addressing
the health disparities that our communi-
ties face.
In addition to serving patients who
seek out our care, we have reached into
the LGBT community and beyond to oer
training and education. Since its incep-
tion in November 2015, our LGBT Health
Resource Center has trained 78 organiza-
tions and 3,853 professionals, provided
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
I N SI D E LG BT W A SH I N G T O N
Trump in the White House, which height-
ens the need to win governorships in New
host of others, state houses and the Con-
gress in 2018. It takes an egotist to think
if he doesnt help and instead launches a
Don Quixote like campaign for the White
House this early that anyone will be con-
vinced to vote for him in 2020. There are
a host of accomplished Democrats who
have served in various legislative and ex-
ecutive positions over the years, have a
great grasp of government and who dont
get bored easily who will announce after
the 2018 elections especially if we win
back the Congress.
I dont know or dislike Delaney and
of what is broken about our politics. It is
politicians looking to enhance themselves
and their own opportunities instead of
working on the things that need doing for
the American people today.
The Democratic Party isnt broken.
ing to work for it and with it; others want-
ing to run under its banner. If Delaney has
a lot of extra money to spend there are
plenty of useful places he could choose
to help strengthen the Democratic Party.
Going on a long-term ego trip in Iowa isnt
going to help anyone.
VIEWPOINT
more than 20 free elder lunch and learns
on topics ranging from estate planning
to LGBT safety, and we oer a half-doz-
en free group meetings and community
events every month.
Many of us today are concerned about
whats ahead for our nation and its health
care. Not only does this question con-
cern our patients who rely on this care,
it concerns each of us who are a part of
the community health center system and
who care about the stability, safety, and
wellness of our country.
FQHCs and community health centers
have existed, grown, and remained an
important facet of American life through
both Republican- and Democratic-majori-
ty times, through nancial boons and cri-
ses, and through times of civil and politi-
cal uncertainty. While we are in a unique
political time, it is imperative that we pull
together to access the fundamental re-
sources that all humans deserve.
For more information, please visit re-
sourcecenter.lgbt.
NATE SWEENEY is executive director, The
LGBT Health Resource Center of Chase Brexton
Health Care.
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
V I E W PO I NT
DNC stands with transgender Americans
Grassroots organizing
can stop Trumps
trans military ban
By JESS OCONNELL
One of the rst campaigns I ever worked
on was in Colorado against a woman who
thought nothing was more important
than preventing gay people from getting
married. She won that race. And for a
time, she used her position of power to
stand in the way of marriage equality. But
thanks to countless organizers and activ-
ists who have worked over many years to
advance LGBTQ rights, last fall I returned
to Colorado to marry my wife.
Elections always have consequences for
us all. Progress, if taken for granted, can
be undone. Every day were seeing the
tragic consequences of the 2016 election.
With a recent tweet, President Trump
used the power of the presidency to
launch a new assault on the LGBTQ com-
munity a sudden announcement that
we put the fun in outdoor entertaining!
LANDSCAPE DESIGN | BUILD | MAINTAIN
CALL FOR APPOINTMENT
T 301.762.6301
he would ban transgender Americans
from our military without any consulta-
tion from military experts.
Like most LGBTQ Americans, I was
deeply saddened but not shocked by the
presidents decision. Under President
Obama, Secretary of Defense Ash Carter
welcomed trans people in the military
to come out of the shadows and serve
openly. The DoD also announced it would
begin studying how it could eectively in-
corporate openly trans recruits into our
ghting forces, once and for all disman-
tling the militarys previously sanctioned
discrimination.
More than two million Americans serve
in the armed forces. Some of them hap-
pen to be transgender, but all of them
regardless of their gender identity
ght every day to protect our country
and its citizens, including Donald Trump
and Mike Pence. Those soldiers deserve
better, and so do the other members of
the LGBTQ community who have been
treated with nothing but hostility by this
administration.
Over the past seven months, the Trump
RETAIL LOCATIONS
5258 RIVER ROAD
BETHESDA, MD 20816
T 301.656.3311
administration has withdrawn federal
protections for transgender students;
theyve argued in court that a landmark
civil rights law doesnt protect gay and
lesbian people from discrimination in the
workplace; and now they want to kick as
many as 15,000 capable service members
out of the military because apparently
these brave warriors are a burden in
Donald Trumps eyes.
Weve come too far to let this admin-
istration trample on the rights of our
friends in the transgender community.
We need to keep mobilizing, organizing,
and lifting up the stories and voices of
trans service members.
Here at the DNC we are determined to
achieve equality for transgender Ameri-
cans. Our support for trans rights has
been enshrined in our party platform for
years now. And last summer, Sarah Mc-
Bride, a transgender activist, made his-
tory on stage at our national convention
in Philadelphia.
But we can always do more. Thats why
Im calling on you to join me in this ght.
Grassroots organizing helped stop the
7405 RIVER ROAD
BETHESDA, MD 20817
T 301.469.7690
A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 2 3
latest eort by Republicans to take health
care away from millions. Now we need to
summon that same energy to push back
against the presidents latest discrimina-
tory actions.
We already defeated the anti-trans
Hartzler amendment with a bipartisan
majority last week. And if we stand to-
gether, not as Democrats or Republicans
but as Americans, we can do the same to
this transgender ban.
Go to makecalls.democrats.org/milita-
ryban and let your member of Congress
know that you support an amendment to
the National Defense Authorization Act
that rearms the rights of transgender
Americans in our armed forces. Congress
has the power to do what is right. But its
up to us to hold them accountable and to
ensure that were standing up for those
who are willing to sacrice everything to
protect us.
JESS OCONNELL is CEO of the Democratic
National Committee.
shop online
americanplant.net
2 4 A UGUST 1 1 , 2017 W A SH I N G T O N BLA D E . CO M

GAY OWNED AND OPERATED

At the Surrogacy Group, LLC, we are committed to making sure that the
surrogacy process runs smoothly and effectively for you at an affordable
price. We make every effort to accomplish the surrogacy process with
ease and comfort. Many of our staff members have been through the
surrogacy process themselves so we know what you are experiencing.

Call us today!
THE SURROGACY GROUP, LLC
126 Cathedral Street
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 990- 0018 | www.surrogacygroup.com

The Surrogacy Group, gay owned and operated where we help make your dreams become a reality.
B A CK TO S CH O O L
D.C. COLLEGES WEIGH IN ON CURRENT ADMINISTRATIONS IMPACT ON CAMPUS
The notion that college campuses are
hermetically sealed bubbles cut o from
the rest of the world is not really true, local
students and faculty say, especially when
it comes to the Trump administration.
The Blade spoke with local LGBT folks
involved in academia to get a sense
of how the White House drama has
impacted local campuses.
The biggest issue at the University of
the District of Columbia so far has been
Trumps on-again, o-again immigration
ban, according to Jay Jamorr Morrow,
the colleges webmaster and facilitator of
its LGBT support association TAG, which
stands for the Alliance Group.
Last semester we had a lot of dierent
forums on immigration issues because it
aected a lot of our students, Morrow,
a lesbian, says. We had lots of students
whose families were coming from
overseas for graduation who werent sure
theyd be able to attend.
The travel ban went into eect June
29 following a Supreme Court ruling that
restricts travel from Iran, Libya, Somalia,
Sudan, Syria and Yemen for 90 days and
limits all refugee admissions for 120 days.
The court is expected to revisit the issue
in the fall but it allowed this scaled-back
version to go into eect.
That was, of course, after graduation
season, but talk of it and an earlier travel
ban that was in eect for a week in January,
had students unnerved Morrow says.
The mood on the George Washington
University campus the day after the
election was just dead according
to Andrew Magie, a 20-year-old, gay
Templeton, Calif., native entering his
sophomore year this fall.
He guesses the student body there is
about 90 percent liberal and perhaps
10 percent middle to right politically.
Subsequently Trumps win had a
stultifying eect on students, Magie says.
Everyone was very down, he says.
There was just a lot of sadness and anger
on the left at the way the election ended.
Since then, I dont want to say theres
been any backlash or any type of ha ha-
type stu from the Republican (students).
I havent felt the campus change in that
manner. Its just that the Democrat
(students) just felt a lot of hurt and anger
and the more were seeing, like with the
trans ruling that came out this summer, its
The Trump eect?
BY JOEY DGUGLIELMO
JOEYD@WASHBLADE.COM
ANDREW MAGIE (left) with JIM OBERGEFELL who visited the George Washington University LGBT
Health Policy & Practice Forum on July 11. Magie says the Trump administration has aected
campus climate.
like more of those feelings just continuing.
Magie hasnt declared a major but is
considering double majoring in political
science and physics. Because he had
so many of his general studies courses
completed with AP work in high school, hes
already had several political science classes.
Although hes not involved in any LGBT
groups on campus (I helped found and
lead the gay/straight alliance in my high
school and felt I had done my time in that
respect, he says), this summer he did
an internship in the LGBT Health Policy
and Practice program at the school.
Conversations there were often political
and almost wholly anti-Trump he says.
Professors regularly use examples
from the current administration in class,
Magie says. He also says Trumps actions
and tweets have provided lots of fodder
for discussion among students and
faculty. He guesses that because George
Washington University has a strong
political science program and because its
PHOTO COURTESY MAGIE
located in the District, students there are
perhaps more politically engaged than in
other parts of the country.
I would say that because Trumps
tweets are so constantly outrageous,
they constantly have sort of permeated
throughout the campus, Magie says.
I hear it all the time and even in my
classes. Theyll compare something in
the course material to something Trump
is saying or doing. Thats been a constant
at my time at the university.
Magie says there have been no
campus demonstrations against Trump
that hes aware of, but he participated
in the Womens March and knows other
students who did as well. He says students
inclined to protest are joining in the bigger
protests as opposed to have campus-
specic protests and that its not unusual
to see anti-Trump T-shirts on campus.
At other schools, it appears to be a
slightly taboo topic. Shiva Subbaraman,
director of the LGBTQ Resource Center at
A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 2 5
Georgetown University, said in an e-mail
that Center personnel generally does not
comment on political impact.
The issue also did not come up in
The Best 382 Colleges, the Princetown
Review annual book, just out, that uses
an 80-question, optional survey given
to 137,000 college students all over the
country, to rank the ve most LGBT-friendly
and -unfriendly colleges (Bryn Mawr is No.
1 this year; Missouris College of the Ozarks
is the least; several D.C.-area schools were
among the 382 considered but none made
either the best or worst list).
While the list doesnt ask questions
about Trump, Rob Franek, editor-in-chief
of the Princeton Review, says geographic
patterns one might guess less LGBT-
friendly schools in the Bible Belt, for
instance do tend to hold.
There is a good deal of consistency,
Franek says. Several schools on our worst
list, like Gordon College is a Christian
school in Massachusetts or Brigham Young
University in Utah or the University of
Tennessee in Knoxville, its not surprising
that some of these states are more
conservative or that students would be
more religious at some of these schools.
What about Liberty University, Virginias
uber-conservative Christian college where
Trump gave the commencement address
on May 13? It didnt rank high enough
academically to qualify for Princeton
Review consideration, Franek says. See
the full list online at princetonreview.
com/best382.
Magie says the country is in a weird
time politically and that even though
college students are young and havent
seen as many administrations as older
Americans, theres still a sense among
them that this is unchartered terrain.
Im quite independent and very much
in the middle politically but I dont even
consider Trump a Republican, Magie
says. I think hes I dont even know
how to describe it. Its just appalling. The
stu he does doesnt even seem like real
policy or that theres any real foundation
to anything hes doing. All he seems to
be doing is this crazy stu just to keep
himself in the media. Its almost like hes
campaigning for 2020 but right now. Its
really strange and kind of horrible for
everyone who has to be on the wrong
side of what hes doing.
 5TH ANNUAL SPORTS ISSUE 26 A U G U S T 11, 2017 BA CK T O SCH O O L

LAUNCH PARTY
AUG 24TH 2017
6-8PM

DC UNITED AUDI FIELD

PREVIEW CENTER
500 PENN STREET NE

Many teachers are using technology to engage students in fresh ways.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STATEPOINT

Changing
classrooms
APPS, INSTRUMENTS AND MORE GIVE NEW SPIN
TO EDUCATION STANDARDS

(StatePoint) Todays classroom are textbook-style LCD display, and direct

in ux. And these changes, rooted in
technological innovation, are making
it easier for students to become more
engaged and collaborative.
Here are several areas where
technology is changing the way lessons
are taught and information is absorbed.
Collaborative apps. While in the past,
group study sessions and group projects
could become logistical headaches, today
there are a wealth of free apps that allow
students to share, collaborate, edit and
provide feedback simultaneously and in real
time, from the comfort of home or while
on the go using mobile devices. Teachers
and students are also using these same
WITH SPECIAL GUEST EDITOR technologies to share homework and receive
LORI LINDSEY feedback. With so much communication
taking place among students and teachers
FORMER UNITED STATES WOMENS at their convenience outside the classroom,
NATIONAL SOCCER TEAM PLAYER class time is becoming more productive and
AUGUST 21 2015 VOLUME 46 ISSUE 34 AMERICAS GAY NEWS SOURCE WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
ecient as a result.
Modern mathematics. The latest
AUGUST 30 2013 VOLUME 44 ISSUE 35 OUR COMMUNITY, OUR STORIES SINCE 1969 WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
AUGUST 22 2014 VOLUME 45 ISSUE 34 CELEBRATING 45 YEARS AS AMERICAS GAY NEWS SOURCE WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
projector and USB connectivity.
Modern music. In many classrooms
today, students are learning to read, write
and play music on the most up-to-date
digital pianos. Many such models oer
the performance and playing comfort
of acoustic pianos, but with the benets
of modern tech, such as split and layer
capabilities, multiple audio outputs and
two-track recording. To learn more, visit
casiomusicgear.com.
Smart gaming. Many students nd
traditional lectures a bit dry. But cutting-
edge educational gaming is more dynamic
and exciting than ever before, with some
classrooms even using immersive virtual
reality experiences to help students
understand history in unprecedented ways.
Connected projections. The modern
lesson plan has nothing to do with chalk
and chalkboard. Today, teachers are
using the latest projectors to better
connect students with the material. For

graphing calculators are a far cry from the example, Casios XJ-UT351WN not only
Former Os minor
leaguer comes out
Gay man bikes across Africa
kind you may remember from your own enables projection from data les stored
high school days. Certain models today on a USB memory device, but also allows
Is Caitlyn Jenner
a role model?

Gay Games, OutGames

plan merger

Mystics star
embraces ally role

feature the ability to draw 3D graphs and wireless connection to smartphones with
And much more,
starting on PAGE 17

with guest editor brendon ayanbadejo

PHOTO BY ALYSSA GREENBERG

view them from various angles in order to a downloadable app. The ability to display
AUGUST 19, 2016 VOLUME 47 ISSUE 34 AMERICAS LGBT NEWS SOURCE WASHINGTONBLADE.COM better understand their shapes, as well and annotate presentations as well as
as oer picture-plot function, for plotting open an Internet browser and display
PHOTO BY JOHN TODD

graphs over real-life scenes. In the past,
students may have felt isolated working
out problems on their own, however, with
the latest models, such as the fx-CG50
from Casios PRIZM line, teachers can
now easily display and share lessons with
the entire classroom thanks to full-color
content in real-time, makes for dynamic
delivery of lessons.
Classrooms that keep up with the pace
of technological innovation oer their
students more opportunities to connect
and collaborate with each other and
engage with the material.
B A CK TO S CH O O L
Hopeful
glimmers
LGBT EDUCATION ACTIVISTS REPORT SMALL GAINS
DESPITE OVERALL POLITICAL HOSTILITY
BY DANA RUDOLPH
My son is starting high school this fall,
which I nd hard to believe. It seems like
just yesterday that I was driving him to
preschool. This year feels dierent for
other reasons, too.
Last year, we headed into school time with
the assumption that progress toward LGBT
equality and inclusion in education would
continue with little hindrance. This year,
however, the pall of federal actions against
LGBT students, particularly transgender
ones, hangs heavy over all of us.
One of the rst acts of the Trump
administration was to withdraw guidance
instituted by the Obama administration on
how schools should protect transgender
and gender-nonconforming students
under Title IX. More recently, Secretary of
Education Betsy DeVos, a proponent of
allowing students to use publicly subsidized
vouchers to go to private schools, was
asked by reporters on Aug. 4, if she would
intervene if states oered vouchers to
private schools that discriminated against
LGBT students, the ACLU reports. They
note, She declined to answer or provide
reassurance that taxpayer dollars would
not be used to discriminate.
And despite growing eorts in recent
years to reduce anti-LGBT and other
forms of bullying in schools and online,
we now have a president whose personal
behavior has been described as a lot like
plain old bullying (CNNs Chris Cillizza)
and bear[ing] many of the hallmarks of
cyberbullying (Politicos Sarah Holder).
If you think the presidents behavior
doesnt have an impact in our schools,
think again. In November, the Southern
Poverty Law Centers Teaching Tolerance
project conducted an online survey of
10,000 K-12 educators across the country.
More than 2,500 said they knew
of ghts, threats, assaults and other
incidents that could be traced directly to
election rhetoric, it said in a statement.
Many teachers took pains to point out
that the incidents they were reporting
represent a distinct uptick; these dynamics
are new and can be traced directly to the
results of the election. The behavior, it
noted, was directed against immigrants,
Muslims, girls, LGBT students, kids with
disabilities and anyone who was on the
wrong side of the election.
What hope can we nd then, in back-to-
A U G U S T 11, 2017 27 Discover Burgundy!
Visit our one-of-a-kind learning environment for
students age 4 through grade 8!
school times like these?
First, I do believe we will retain much
of the progress we have made toward
LGBT inclusion and understanding in
Fall F
schools. Organizations like GLSEN, PFLAG
Octo air
and HRCs Welcoming Schools project Call 703.329.6968 to RSVP for October 6, 911 a.m. ber 14
have been doing terric on-the-ground !
an upcoming open house or
work for years. Resources for educators November 10, 911 a.m.
continue to increase. One recent notable schedule a tour of our 26-acre
work is Rethinking Sexism, Gender
hidden gem Alexandria campus December 2, 24 p.m.
and Sexuality, an essay collection from
Rethinking Schools that oers both just off the Beltway. January 7, 24 p.m.
practical tips and reective insights on
creating classrooms, curriculum and Burgundy Farm Country Day School 703.329.6968
more to nurture all children. www.burgundyfarm.org www.facebook.com/burgundyfarm
The professional organizations of
educators, too, are continuing their
support. Last summer, the National
Education Association, the National
Parent Teacher Association and the
American Federation of Teachers had all
announced support for plans and policies
to promote safety and support for LGBT
Apply for Discounts on Your Utility Bills
students, working in partnership with Discounts are Subject to Income Eligibility Requirements
local, state and federal authorities.
- Apply for Discounted Rates on -
Right after the Trump administrations
announcement on trans students
this year, Federation President Randi
Weingarten said in a statement, We
want to be clear to those kids: (Abuse and
harassment at school for being trans) is
not OK with your teachers or with us at
Telephone Electric
Lifeline Program (Economy II) Residential Aid Discount (RAD) Program
the (Federation), and we will continue
Annual discount on one Potential savings are
ghting to protect you.
land line service per between $300-$475
Additionally, the Federation invited
household. annually.
trans student Gavin Grimm, who brought
a federal lawsuit against his school
for not letting him use the restroom
corresponding to his gender identity, to
speak at their biennial TEACH convention
Natural Gas Water
Residential Essential Service (RES) Program Customer Assistance Program (CAP)
in Washington in July. Potential savings up to Potential discount
The National Education Association could be over $450
$276 during the winter
kept up its support by adopting a annually.
heating season.
resolution in June to continue to
advance the rights of LGBT students
and educators with a series of specic
actions, including oering its members
tools to promote local policies; legislative
support; ling friend of the court briefs;
For more info call 311 or visit doee.dc.gov/udp
and not holding meetings in cities with To apply for the telephone Lifeline Service (Economy II), call 800-253-0846.
discriminatory policies. The organization
also honored federal marriage equality These programs are for DC residents only.
plainti Jim Obergefell at its 2017 Human
and Civil Rights Awards in July.
CONTINUES AT WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
2 8 A UGUST 1 1 , 2017
PRICE REDUCED!
4609 Foxhall CresCent nW
Foxhall
sophisticated home in convenient location.
4,200sf on three levels. Generous main floor
includes a light filled 2 story foyer. Walk-out
lower level has 2BR/2BA, 2nd family room
and private entrance. Gorgeous flagstone
patio, exquisite landscape architecture/
outdoor lighting, 2-car garage.
$1,599,000
Direct:
GEORGETOWN OFFICE 1101 30TH ST NW SUITE 120 WASHINGTON DC 20007 202.333.6100 WWW.COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM
1609 22nd st nW
Kalorama
elegance abounds in this renovated
Kalorama manse with four off-street
parking spaces. Approximately 5,500sf
on four levels. Grand, wide staircase is
capped by a large skylight, illuminating
the house. Could easily be transformed
into a grand residence.
$4,435,000
Direct:
W A SH I N G T O N BLA D E . CO M
4520 WesthAll DR NW
Palisades
stunning home offers breathtaking views
of the Potomac River. Over 6,500sf of
living space, with exceptional main level
floor plan. luxurious flagstone terrace
with fire pit on garden level and deck
with outdoor living/dining rooms on main
level. 2-car garage. elevator.
$2,650,000
 A newfound appreciation for Columbia at 50
GEN X AND MILLENNIAL BLADE STAFFERS RECALL FORMATIVE YEARS IN INNOVATIVE TOWN
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
GROWING UP AS
A PIONEER
Respecting Rouses dream
to grow creative, inspired,
loving people
By KEVIN NAFF
kna@washblade.com
The reputation of Columbia, Md., as a
racially integrated place was tested early,
just after its founding in June 1967.
It was one year later in June of 1968 that
segregationist Alabama Gov. George Wallace
held a rally at Merriweather Post Pavilion in
support of his presidential campaign. New
Columbia residents, including some African
Americans enticed to move there because
of founder James Rouses promise of
integrated housing, were upset. Some called
for the rally to be cancelled.
But not Rouse.
I am convinced that the fabric of
our country is so true that we have the
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
An aerial shot of Columbia, Md., taken in the 1970s. For a list of anniversary activities, visit
columbiamd50.com.
capability of weathering demagogues,
Rouse said, according to the Baltimore
Sun. Only through exposure have they
been suocated.
Rouse wanted to capitalize on the
contrast between Wallace and Columbia,
the Sun reported at the time. He asked,
Might not this be a creative experience
for Columbia?
Ultimately, Wallace spoke to a crowd of
his Confederate ag-waving supporters,
as Columbia residents organized a
counter rally across town. The community
response passionate, informed, open
reects my experience growing up
in the new city sandwiched between
Baltimore and Washington.
My parents moved to Columbia in 1974;
early residents were called pioneers
lured by Rouses grand dream of a new
American city that would be a garden for
growing people. His vision included racial
integration during a tumultuous time in
the civil rights movement. It included all,
regardless of income or social status or
religion. In fact, many Columbia residents
worshipped in interfaith centers, in
which a Catholic Mass might be held down
the hall from a Jewish service at the same
SEE PIONEER ON PAGE 40
VOLUME 48 ISSUE 32
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE COLUMBIA ARCHIVES
EDUCATION
FIRST
This Millennial realized
hometowns appeal
after she left
By RASHANNA LEE
My parents moved to Columbia in
1993. My mother had just graduated from
Howard University and was expecting my
older sister. The choice to raise children in
Columbia was a deliberate, and arguably
dicult, choice for my parents. My father
lived all over the world, but has deep
roots in Boston while my mother is from
the Bronx.
They struggled between the idea
of raising city kids like they were, or
taking advantage of the opportunities
the suburbs oered. One of the things
that Columbia is known for is its school
system. My mom was a rst-generation
college graduate and for that reason she
AUGUST 11, 2017 PAGE 29
made education the determining factor in
where she decided to raise her kids.
When I was young, I wasnt aware of the
history or the notoriety associated with
Columbia, but I certainly took advantage
of the benets. My elementary school was
Phelps Luck and it was such an enriching
and diverse place to get my formative
education. I had friends of all races and
religions and my teachers were diverse
as well. This taught me from an early age
about being tolerant and I learned that all
people are worthy of respect, regardless
of what they look like.
As I moved on to middle and high
school, the emphasis on tolerance and
respect only intensied. I graduated from
Howard High School in 2014 and one of
the things that sticks out to me about
my high school experience was how nice
(generally) everyone was to each other.
There were strict, zero-tolerance policies
on bullying, and support groups like the
Gay-Straight Alliance and black female
empowerment groups. The kids werent
perfect, but I would say we accepted and
encouraged individuality at the very least.
My relationship with my hometown, like
many relationships, had ups and downs.
SEE EDUCATION ON PAGE 40

3 0 A UGUS T 1 1 , 2017 Q U E E RY : 2 0 Q U E ST I O N S F O R I T SI K SA Y A G
ITSIK SAYAG
PHOTO COURTESY OF SAYAG
By JOEY DiGULIELMO How long have you been out and who
joeyd@washblade.com was the hardest person to tell?
I came out when I joined the Israeli
Itsik Sayag came to Washington 10 months ago to work as a Shaliach (an army about 11 years ago. As weird as
emissary) with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washingtons Shlichim Program. it sounds, the Israel Defense Forces is
Hes one of 16 here in a program that places young Israelis in Jewish super gay friendly. My mom was the
congregations in the D.C. area to teach American Jews more about Israel from hardest person to tell.
rst-hand perspectives.
Sayag is just starting his second 10-month term and is now at the Beth El Whos your LGBT hero?
Synagogue in Bethesda and with the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Dana International. She is an Israeli
Rockville, Md. This summer he was a summer counselor at a local Jewish camp. transgender singer who won the
While visiting area schools, he talks with students about gay rights, coming Eurovision Song Contest. Shes the most
out in Israel, disability rights, society, food and pop culture and helps them colorful, stunning and joyous person.
with their Hebrew.
Sayag has enjoyed noting the dierences between gay life in Washington Whats Washingtons best nightspot,
and his native Tel Aviv. past or present?
Tel Aviv is a beach town at heart and its very gay friendly, he says. So Annies!
its a much less formal place. Everyone is casual and laid back. Also the party
lifestyle is more European. No one goes out until at least midnight and the Describe your dream wedding.
parties last all night. Im still working on nding a groom, but
He also says Tel Aviv has a ton of gay people, so its not unusual there. the guest of honor is my mother and
Because of that, you dont nd the kind of welcoming and organized community my rabbi at Beth El Congregation in
as you do in D.C., Sayag says. I really love all the activities and groups there are Bethesda, Md., Greg Harris, will ociate.
for Jews and LGBT people in D.C. and will miss that when I leave.
To be a Shaliach, applicants go through a rigorous interview process. The What non-LGBT issue are you most
program provides them with living accommodations. In Tel Aviv, Sayag works passionate about?
as a ceremony director for the Israel Defense Forces and as a writer/director Sephardic Jews in Israel and everything
for a kids TV show called Knock Knock. that is happening in Syria. My parents
Sayag, a 29-year-old Tel Aviv native, is single and lives in Bethesda. He enjoys grew up there and its breaking my heart.
swimming, reading, foreign lms, language study and reading in Meridian Hill
Park in his free time. What historical outcome would you
change?
The assassination of Prime Minister
Yitzhak Rabin.
Whats been the most memorable pop
culture moment of your lifetime?
In the 1990s, the Israeli childrens
channel was heavily inuenced by
Latin America. When I discovered XUXA
(Shusha), the childrens star from Brazil,
it was the most signicant pop moment
of my life.
On what do you insist?
Everything goes.
What was your last Facebook post or
Tweet?
A video of my campers (Im a counselor)
at Camp Ramah D.C. practicing their
202.747.2077 Hebrew.
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
If your life were a book, what would
the title be?
ITSIK
If science discovered a way to change
sexual orientation, what would you
do?
Share on Facebook.
What do you believe in beyond the
physical world?
I believe in Hashem.
Whats your advice for LGBT
movement leaders?
You are amazing. Keep going! Every day
you live, you make history.
What would you walk across hot coals
for?
My own apartment in Tel Aviv.
What LGBT stereotype annoys you
most?
So whos the man and whos the woman
in your relationship?
Whats your favorite LGBT movie?
Bring It On
Whats the most overrated social
custom?
Shopping at Costco, even though they
have a huge department of kosher meat.
What trophy or prize do you most
covet?
When I was in 10th grade I participated
in a French talent competition on behalf
of the French Embassy in Israel and won
three weeks all-inclusive in Paris. The
guy who won the prize with me was a
presenter at MTV three years later.
What do you wish youd known at 18?
When I was 18, I was a soldier. I think I
knew too much.
Why Washington?
Nice Jewish boys. And the incredible
community I have built here through
the Jewish Federation of Greater
Washington.
W A SH I N GTO NB LAD E.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 3 1

DISCOVER THREE UNIQUE & VERSATILE

PROPERTIES IN COASTAL DELAWARE!
O
UST
LL E
CA PLOR NS!
EX PTIO
O
O UR
Y

1407 Savannah Road, Lewes

MLS 722690 Offered at $699,900

103 Shipcarpenter Street & 240 Front Street, Historic Lewes 16239 Willow Creek Road, Lewes
MLS 717452 Offered together at $1,699,900 MLS 721021 Offered at $2,000,000

16698 Ki ngs Hi ghwa y S t e . A , L e w e s , D E 19958 ( 3 02) 645- 6 66 4 L e e A n n Gr o u p . c o m

 WASHINGTONBLADE.COM

LIVE
UPCOMING PERFORMANCES
32 AUG U S T 11, 2017 O U T & A BO U T

CAROLYN
WONDERLAND
W/ MARK WENNERS
BLUES WARRIORS
THURSDAY AUGUST 10

By MARIAH COOPER

& the
JUAN DE MARCOS

AFRO-CUBAN
ALL STARS
SATURDAY AUGUST 12

TUES, AUG 15
AJ CROCE AND ROBBIE FULKS
WED, AUG 16
THE ROOSEVELTS
W/ HOLY GHOST TENT REVIVAL
PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY; COURTESY OF THE KENNEDY CENTER
THURS, AUG 17
WALTER TROUT
W/ MATTHEW CURRY Bangkok benet features actor Jose Llana
FRI, AUG 18 WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY MICHAEL KEY

AN EVENING WITH GET THE LED OUT
SAT, AUG 19
THE LONDON SOULS
AND CON BRIO
WED, AUG 23
WALLY KINGS PRESENTS
KABAKA PYRAMID
W/ RAS SLICK & DUTTY BUS CREW
THURS, AUG 24
DONAVON FRANKENREITER
W/ SPECIAL GUEST MATT GRUNDY
FRI & SAT, AUG 25 & 26
AN EVENING WITH
RAMSEY LEWIS QUINTET
SUN, AUG 27
LIVE NATION PRESENTS
PJ MORTON W/ MAJOR AND ASH
THURS, AUG 31
BEAUSOLEIL
AVEC MICHAEL DOUCET
FRI, SEPT 1
SELWYN BIRCHWOOD
SAT, SEPT 2
KEVIN JACKSON BAND
AND ANISSA HARGROVE
THURS, SEPT 7
RHETT MILLER OF OLD 97S
THEHAMILTONDC.COM
One Night in Bangkok, a benet for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, will
be held at Bistro Bistro (1727 Connecticut Ave., N.W.) on Monday, Aug. 14.
The event is a joint eort between La Ti Do Productions and members of the Brother Help Thyself
national touring company of the Lincoln Center Theater Production of The King going to Kings Dominion
and I and will feature an evening of song and dance. Among the performers are
Jose Llana (seen here), a D.C.-area native, who plays the King of Siam in The King
and I. The touring company of this production has raised more than $100,000 Brother Help Thyself hosts its Pride
for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS in various parts of the country. Night at Kings Dominion (16000 Theme
VIP tickets are $40 and includes a pre-show reception with the cast at 7 p.m. Doors Park Way., Doswell, Va.) on Saturday, Aug.
open at 7:30 and the show starts at 8 for regular admission ticket holders ($25). 19 from 3 p.m.-midnight.
Details at onenightinbangkok.net or latidoproductions.com. The park will be closed to non-Brother
ticket holders at 8 p.m. There will also be
access to a private wave pool in the water
park from 6-8 p.m. From 9 p.m.-midnight
there will be a dance party with tunes by
2 NIGHTS DJ Kuhmeleon outside the water park.
Brother ticketholders will have exclusive
ride time in Candy Apple Grove for limited
attractions from 10-11 p.m.
Tickets are $41. Purchase tickets at
kingsdominion.com and enter promo
code PRIDENIGHT. For more details,
visit facebook.com/brotherhelpthyself.
Marsha P. Johnson doc is
Reel Armations selection
Reel Armations presents a screening
WASHINGTON BLADE FILE PHOTO BY DAMIEN SALAS of The Death and Life of Marsha P.
Johnson at Human Rights Campaign
(1640 Rhode Island Ave., N.W.) on Friday,
Lure D.C. returns with annual Bare White Party Aug. 18 from 7-9 p.m.
The documentary examines the life and
death of Johnson, a transgender activist
Lure D.C. hosts its eighth annual Bare White Party at Cobalt (1630 R St., N.W.) who was found oating in the Hudson
on Saturday, Aug. 19 from 10 p.m.-3 a.m. River in 1992. Rayceen Pendarvis hosts
The ladies dance party will feature music by DJs Rosie and Keenan Orr. The the event. General admission tickets are
DystRucXion Dancers will perform. There will also be a wet T-shirt contest. $12. VIP tickets are $25 and include one
Guests are encouraged to wear white. Cover is $7 before midnight and $10 after. complimentary cocktail, beer or wine and
For more information, visit facebook.com/lurewdc. movie candy or popcorn.
For more information, visit thedccenter.org.
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
M US I C
The Atomic Blonde soundtrack is a strong 80s hits compilation that works on its own.
80s dazzlers strung together
deftly on Blonde soundtrack
By CHRIS GERARD
One of the most anticipated lms of the
summer is the thriller Atomic Blonde
starring Charlize Theron as a British spy
operating just as the Berlin Wall is about
to collapse as the 80s wound to a close.
While the movie hasnt been a major
blockbuster, it has performed respectfully
and reviews have been mostly favorable.
One of its most notable aspects is the deft
use of some terric music from the 80s
which sets the right vibe for the bygone
era in which it is set. Summer movies
have traditionally been fertile ground
for classic soundtracks, with some even
outlasting the movie to which it belongs
in pop culture awareness.
That might not be the case with Atomic
Blonde, but director David Leitchs
song selections make for an awesome
nostalgia ride that will delight fans of 80s
music and will hopefully introduce new
audiences to some truly classic tunes.
David Bowies Cat People (Putting Out
Fire) makes yet another high-prole
appearance in lm, a testament to the
songs gripping cinematic power. It was
originally written and recorded for the
1982 lm Cat People directed by Paul
Schrader, and Quentin Tarantino dusted
it o for a key sequence in his 2009
wartime thriller Inglourious Basterds.
It opens the compilation with a brooding
intensity that sets the mood.
German artist Peter Schillings synth-
rock staple Major Tom follows, a clever
transition from the man who originated
the character in Space Oddity to the
tense and jittery homage that became
a surprise hit (Schillings only Top 40
appearance in the U.S.) in 1983.
A U G U S T 11, 2017 33
On a magical weekend in the country,
anything can happen...
Photo of Bobby Smith and Holly Twyford by Christopher Mueller
PHOTO COURTESY OF FOCUS FEATURES
a little
night music
Stephen Sondheims musical comedy
featuring Send in the Clowns
One of the coolest things about the
Atomic Blonde soundtrack is that Leitch
doesnt just go with obvious choices. August 15 October 8 Pride Night: September 15
There are a few major hits, like George
Michaels sensual chart-topper Father SigTheatre.org | 703 820 9771
Figure, A Flock of Seagulls new wave
essential I Ran (So Far Away), and Til
Tuesdays mournful tale of an oppressive
relationship, Voices Carry, but there are
also lesser-known tracks. Siouxsie and
the Banshees dramatic Cities in Dust
is a superb addition, as is Re-Flexs The
Politics of Dancing, an edgy electro-
August Celebrations
rocker that wasnt a giant hit upon its
release in 1984 but still pulses with club-
ready energy.
Given that the lm is largely set in
Germany, Leitch chooses several tracks
that harken back to that countrys proud
pop music history. Nenas anti-war fable Weekend Brunch
99 Luftballons, set at the Berlin Wall, is Champagne Celebrations
always wonderful to hear (as is the new Unlimited By The Glass
recording by Kaleida, also featured on the
Saturdays A-La-Carte $29.95
soundtrack).
Der Kommissar, a song originally Sunday Buffet $38.95
released in German by Falco in 1981, Voted 2016 TOP TEN Best Brunches
is featured as covered by After the Fire, ***
who scored a major U.S. hit with their Beat-The-Heat
1983 English-language version. Several Brain Freeze Cocktails
new covers are thrown into the mix, 25% Off
including a searing take on New Orders
Blue Monday by HEALTH, and Marilyn Live DJ
Mansons collaboration with original Wed Sat
score composer Tyler Bates on a manic A Different Vibe Every Night
version of Ministrys industrial epic ***
Stigmata. PATIO DRINK SPECIALS August 14-20
Movie soundtracks, with few exceptions Pitchers, Platters, Buckets
(Guardians of the Galaxy, for instance) *** Dinner
no longer enjoy the same massive cultural MARTINIS RULE! Includes Unlimited Champagne
cachet as in decades past, but there are still $5-$7-$10 Patio Happy Hour
great ones to be found thanks to directors *** Lunch
who know how to incorporate outstanding SUMMER SALAD MONTH Includes A Glass of Wine
music into their lms in meaningful ways. Lunch & Dinner Or Soft Drink
Baby Driver is arguably the best of the 202-872-1126 www.BBGWDC.com Outdoor Events Ask About Our
summer so far, but Atomic Blonde is Simple Solutions Menus
17th & Rhode Island Ave. NW
right up there with it.
 WASHINGTONBLADE.COM

3 4 A UGUS T 1 1 , 2017 A RT S & CU LT U RE

This Week in the Arts provided by CultureCapital.com

Trap. wolftrap.org.
Summer Steps Culminating
Performance. Aug 13. Step Afrika!
National Building Museum.
stepafrika.org.
MUSIC
Yellow Dubmarine. Aug 11. AMP.
ampbystrathmore.com.
Live from the Lawn: Lindsay Lou &
The Flatbellys. Aug 16. Strathmore.
strathmore.org.
For Your Consideration Art on 8th: The Ramparts. Aug 17.
Aug 9-13. Washington Jewish Film Festival at Edlavitch DCJCC. Dance Place. Arts Plaza at Monroe
wj.org. Street Market. danceplace.org.
Each year the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences invites countries Origem. Aug 17. Glen Echo Park.
to submit a single lm for consideration in the competitive category of Best glenechopark.org.
Foreign Language Film. For Your Consideration is a choice sampling of these Lubber Run Amphitheater: Rico
submissions, curated by California Film Institute, oering a rare opportunity to Amero. Aug 11. Signature Theatre
view some of the most distinguished works in world cinema. Photo is from the Cabaret. Aug 12. National Chamber
lm Tanna, Australias submission for the 89th Academy Awards. Ensemble. Aug 13. Arlington Cultural
Aairs. Lubber Run. arlingtonarts.org.
Carmen Jazz in the Garden: Zili. Aug 11.
Thru Aug 13. Synetic Theater. National Gallery of Art. nga.gov.
synetictheater.org. Lyle Lovett & His Large Band. Aug 11.
The award-winning production returns, wordlessly re-imagined to Mary Chapin Carpenter and Lucinda
sizzling eect! As the irresistible and ery Carmen draws the soldier Jose Williams. Aug 12. Lifehouse and
into a forbidden romance, a deadly love triangle emerges with tragic Switchfoot with Brynn Elliott. Aug
consequences. 13. Wolf Trap. wolftrap.org.
Ukulele Hui. Aug 15. SSTCi. Veterans
LOC Summer Movies on the Lawn - Ghostbusters Plaza. silverspringdowntown.com.
Aug 17. Library of Congress.
loc.gov.
Screenplay writers Harold Ramis, Dan Aykroyd and Bill Murrary star in this
MUSEUMS
comedy as three intrepid parapsychologists in New York City who start a ghost- Folger Shakespeare Library. Painting
catching business. Shakespeare. Thru Feb 11. folger.edu.
National Archives. Amending
Matthias Mansen: Congurations. America. Thru Sep 4.
Thru Dec 13. nga.gov. archivesfoundation.org.
Matthias Mansen is a contemporary Berlin-based artist (b. 1958) whose Dumbarton Oaks Library and
work advances the long tradition of woodblock printing. Mansen masterfully Collection. City Water/City Life. Thru
layers printings from multiple blocks, sometimes employing ghost prints to Aug 31. Imagining the Empress:
achieve delicate modulations of tonal intensity and texture. Concerned with Theodora in Popular Culture, 1882-
process nearly as much as nal product, Mansen works on numerous prints 1922. Thru Aug 31. Ancient Textiles.
simultaneously and progressively carves and recarves his blocks. Thru Mar 31. Women in Art. Thru Mar
Oct 29. nmwa.org.
National Portrait Gallery,
Smithsonian. The Face of Battle:
Americans at War, 9/11 to Now. Thru
Jan 28. Marlene Dietrich: Dressed
for the Image. Thru Apr 15. One Life:
Sylvia Plath. Thru May 20. Antebellum
Portraits by Mathew Brady. Thru Jun 3.
npg.si.edu.
GALLERIES
DCCAH. Synergy Visual Arts Exhibition.
Thru Aug 11. dcarts.dc.gov.
District Architecture Center. 2017
Professional Awards of the Potomac
Chapter, ASLA. Thru Aug 25.
aiadac.com.
gallery Neptune & Brown. Summer
Bounce 2: Contemporary Works on
Paper from Barsha to Puryear. Thru
Sep 2. galleryneptunebrown.com.
Glen Echo Park. Enduring Beacons:
Documenting Americas Lighthouses.
Thru Aug 26. A Fresh Look: New Yellow
Barn Faculty. Thru Aug 27. CRAFT:
Awardees from the Creative Crafts
Council. Thru Aug 27.
glenechopark.org.
Hill Center. Regional Juried Exhibition.
Thru Oct 1. hillcenterdc.org.
JCCNV. Jewish Grati. Thru Oct 2.
jccnv.org.
Korean Cultural Center DC. K-Arts :
From Nature: Six Korean Artists. Thru
Aug 31. koreaculturedc.org.
Zenith Gallery. RESIST: Nationally
Juried Exhibit. Thru Oct 15. Variety
is the Spice of Life. Thru Sep 9.
zenithgallery.com.
DCAC. 1460 Wallmountables. Thru Sep
10. dcartscenter.org.
Joan Hisaoka Healing Arts Gallery.
Rising Tides. Thru Aug 26.
smithcenter.org.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WASHINGTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL

THEATRE
A Little Night Music. Aug 15-Oct 8.
Signature Theatre. sigtheatre.org.
The Second Citys Almost Accurate
Guide to America: Divided We
Stand. Thru Aug 13. Rodgers &
Hammersteins The King and I. Thru
Aug 20. Kennedy Center.
kennedy-center.org.
Big Fish. Thru Sep 2. Keegan Theatre.
keegantheatre.com.
Thurgood. Thru Aug 20. Olney
Theatre. olneytheatre.org.
Wig Out! Thru Aug 20. Studio Theatre.
studiotheatre.org.
Phil & a Mic with Phil Mike. Aug 15.
Bier Baron Tavern. U Dont Know
Jack w/Jack. Aug 16. Straight Cash
Comedy w/Kasha. Aug 17. Town
Tavern DC. H Street Comedy Night
w/ET. Aug 12. Driftwood Kitchen.
Mundane Aight Comedy w/Adelle
and Kevin. Aug 14. The Passenger.
Capital Laughs. capitallaughs.com.
Children of Eden. Aug 17-Aug 19.
Theatre Lab. theatrelab.org.
The Juniper Tree and Bastianello.
Aug 11-Aug 19. The Barns.
wolftrap.org.
DANCE
Pilobolus Maximus. Aug 15. Wolf
31. doaks.org.
Library of Congress. Mapping a
Growing Nation: From Independence
to Statehood. Thru Sep 1. Drawing
Justice: The Art of Courtroom
Illustration. Thru Oct 28. Echoes of the
Great War: American Experiences of
World War I. Thru Jan 1. loc.gov.
National Gallery of Art. America
Collects Eighteenth-Century French
Painting. Thru Aug 20. In the Library:
Companion Pieces. Thru Aug 25. In the
Tower: Theaster Gates. Thru Sep 4.
nga.gov.
National Geographic. Earth Explorers.
Thru Sep 10. Sharks: On Assignment
with Brian Skerry. Thru Oct 15.
nglive.org.
National Museum of Women in the
Arts. From the Desk of Simone de
Beauvoir. Thru Aug 12. Revival. Thru
Sep 10. Equilibrium: Fanny Sann. Thru
AND MORE...
National Archives. National
Archives History Hub. Aug 17.
archivesfoundation.org.
Workhouse Arts Center. Workhouse
Brewfest. Aug 12. workhousearts.org.
Docs in Progress. Documentary
Roundtable Silver Spring: Trailer Night.
Aug 14. docsinprogress.org.
Library of Congress. Film: Testament
of Youth. Aug 12. Venusthe
Forgotten, Mysterious Planet. Aug 15.
loc.gov.
National Gallery of Art. Film: A Tale of
Two Cities. Aug 11. Madame Du Barry.
Aug 12. Les amants de Montparnasse.
Aug 12. Les possds. Aug 13.
Exhibition Design from Treasure
Houses of Britain to Diaghilev. Aug 13.
nga.gov.

WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
S P O RTI N I N D. C.
DANA MENDENHALL and QUANG NGUYEN say theyre each passionate about playing in Capital
Tennis.
Local players nd
camaraderie, competition on
local and international courts
By KEVIN MAJOROS
The Capital Tennis Association oers
league play throughout the year along
with its Capital Classic Tournament being
a stop on the Gay & Lesbian Tennis
Alliance World Tour.
Members are also experimenting with
dierent formats including a team format
like World Team Tennis, where players
from each of the ve divisions would form
a team to play against other similar teams.
In addition, Capital Tennis oers free
tennis lessons for beginners in the spring
and fall months and drill sessions for
members in the summer months.
This week in the ongoing Washington
Blade series spotlighting athletes in the
LGBT sports community, we meet two
LGBT players from Capital Tennis.
Dana Mendenhall says she was born
with a tennis racket in her hand because
her father was the head tennis pro at a
club. Raised in Montclair, Va., she left the
sport behind in her rebellious teen years.
She spotted Capital Tennis in its booth
at Capital Pride in 2015 and after moving to
Alexandria, she signed up for its winter league.
I didnt have a lot interaction with the
LGBT community up until that point,
Mendenhall says. Being surrounded by
my peers made it easier and fun for me
to get back into the sport.
Mendenhall is working as a dental
assistant and taking classes at Northern
Virginia Community College. She will
move on to University of Maryland to
pursue a degree in biology.
She has fully integrated back into
loving tennis and has played almost every
day over the past year. Along with her
membership with Capital Tennis she is
also playing in the Mid-Atlantic section of
the United States Tennis Association and
will compete in upcoming regionals at
Virginia Beach.
I think I have improved a lot over the

Cocaine
A U G U S T 11, 2017 35
Addiction?
If so, you may qualify for a paid
clinical research study!

To qualify, you must:
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE PLAYERS Be 18-65 years of age
Be seeking treatment for cocaine
use disorder
Qualified Participants Receive:
Compensation up to $905
past year and my forehand has become a
weapon, Mendenhall says. I denitely have Study related exams & lab work
room for more improvement and there are
always little things you can do better. at no cost

Last fall she competed in her rst Gay
& Lesbian Tennis Alliance tournament
at the Capital Classic and found herself
facing men in all her rounds.
If interested, call George
Its all equal to me because of the
divisions; gender doesnt matter at all
Washington University:
and I look forward to teaming up with
male players for mixed doubles at future 202-834-4925
tournaments, Mendenhall says. I always 
try to keep a smile on my face during my
matches and I am loving being a part of
Capital Tennis.
When Capital Tennis needed an upgrade
to its website, organizers looked to player
Quang Nguyen who runs software
company ARPH Systems with one of his
brothers. Nguyen created a software that
handles registration, scheduling, proles,
rankings and score lines.
Born and raised in Virginia Beach, he
didnt play organized sports and was
focused primarily on violin and piano. He
was however, playing tennis recreationally
with his brothers. After graduating from
Virginia Tech, he moved back home with
his parents before nally following his
college friends to D.C. in 2010.
In 2011, Nguyen attended a speed
dating event hosted by the D.C. Gay Flag
Football League and met several players
from Capital Tennis. He signed up and
began playing all four tennis leagues
along with going to the Gay & Lesbian
Tennis Alliance tournaments.
He lost in the rst or second round
of every tournament until having a
breakthrough in 2014 when he won three
tournaments and two silver medals at
the 2014 Gay Games in Cleveland. His
tournament wins qualied him for a spot
in the GLTA World Championships in
Palm Springs.
I had always been athletic, but it took
me a while to gure out how to win,
Nguyen says. My mental game improved
and I began playing with a lot more
condence.
CONTINUES AT WASHINGTONBLADE.COM

3 6 A UGUST 1 1 2017
E-mail calendar items to calendars@washblade.
com two weeks prior to your event. Space is lim-
ited so priority is given to LGBT-specic events
or those with LGBT participants. Recurring
events must be re-submitted each time.
TODAY
D.C. Bear Crue hosts Bear Happy Hour
at Town (2009 8th St., N.W.) tonight from
6-11 p.m. Drink specials available until 11
p.m. Free pizza oered at 7 p.m. Entry
ends at 9:30 p.m. For more details, visit
facebook.com/bearhappyhour.
Green Lantern (1335 Green Ct., N.W.)
hosts its country music night from 10
p.m.-3 a.m. DJ Jay Servidea will play
country hits all night. For more details,
visit greenlanterndc.com.
The Imperial Court of Washington
hosts its Beer Bar Takeover at the D.C.
Eagle (3701 Benning Rd., N.E.) tonight
at 10 p.m. There will be $2 drafts, $2
Jell-O shots and a rae. Funds raised
will benet the Imperial Court and the
CrossOver Healthcare Ministries, Pets
with Disabilities and Rainbow Families.
For more information, visit facebook.
com/imperialcourtdc.
CinEinsomnia presents a screening of
The Rocky Horror Picture Show at
Landmarks E Street Cinema (555 11th
St., N.W.) tonight and Saturday starting at
11:59 p.m. The live shadowcast the Sonic
Transducers will perform. Tickets are
$10. For more details, visit facebook.com/
estreetcinema.
GAMMA, a peer-supported, self-help
group for gay or bisexual men who have
been involved with women, meets at
Luther Place Memorial Church (1226
Vermont Ave., N.W.) tonight at 7:30 p.m.
Meetings are also held in Vienna, Va., and
Frederick, Md. Details at gammaindc.org.
SATURDAY, AUG. 12
Distrkt C hosts Winter White, a white-
themed dance party, at the D.C. Eagle
(3701 Benning Rd., N.E.) tonight from 10
p.m.-6 a.m. DJ Manny Lehman will play an
extended set. White attire is suggested.
For more details, visit facebook.com/
distrktc.
Smithsonians Anacostia Community
Museum (1901 Fort Pl., S.E.) hosts a
community forum on LGBT issues and
faith today from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Leaders
from faith-based and LGBT communities
will speak on the community and faith.
Panelists include CEO of Our Bible app,
Crystal Cheatham; senior pastor and
founder of Bethel Christian Church, Pastor
Darren W. Phelps; Director of GLOE,
Josef Palermo; and Nabel Kirmani from
Muslims for Progressive Values. Victoria
Lewis, a George Washington University
peace and religion studies student,
will moderate the panel. Admission
is free. For more information, visit
facebook.com/ smithsnoniananacostia
communitymuseum.
Distrkt C has its Winter White party Saturday night.
The Imperial Court of Washington
performs Dream is a Wish Your Heart
Makes, a Disney-themed drag brunch
show, at Freddies Beach Bar (555 23rd
St S., Arlington, Va.) today from 10 a.m.-
3 p.m. Members will dress up as famous
Disney characters for this kid-friendly
show. Funds raised will benet Rainbow
Families. For more details, visit facebook.
com/imperialcourtdc.
Whitman Walker Health and Real Talk
D.C. host a Queer Youth Block Party at
the Lot at the Liz (1701 14th St., N.W.) today
from 5-9 p.m. There will be food, music,
outdoor games, youth performances and
free HIV testing. Admission is free. For
more information, visit facebook.com/
whitmanwalker.
Mixtape, a gay dance party, is at U
Street Music Hall (115 U St., N.W.) tonight
from 10 p.m.-3 a.m. DJ Matt Bailer, DJ
Tommy Cornelis and DJ Keenan Orr will
play a mix of nu-disco, house, indie-pop
and electronic music. Admission is free
before midnight for guests 21 and over.
Cover is $10 after. Tickets for guests
18-20 are $10 and are allowed entry by
advanced tickets only. For more details,
visit mixtapedc.com.
The fth annual Pride Splash & Ride
is at Six Flags America (13710 Central
Ave., Upper Marlboro, Md.) today from
10:30 a.m.-midnight. The theme park will
be open from 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. and the
water park will be open from 11 a.m.-7
p.m. There will be a happy hour and drag
show at Hurricanes and Showtime Theater
from 6-8 p.m. The Pride Water Park Party
follows from 8 p.m.-midnight with music
from DJ Rosie Hicks and DJ Centrik. There
will be water slides and cocktails. Tickets
WASHINGTON BLADE PHOTO BY BEN KELLER
start at $42. A portion of proceeds will
benet Capital Pride Alliance, Northern
Virginia Pride and Baltimore Pride. For
more information, visit capitalpride.org/
events/pride-splash-ride-207.
SUNDAY, AUG. 13
Mr. Nice Jewish Boy holds its 2017
pageant at Town (2009 8th St., N.W.)
tonight. The nal four contestants will
compete in categories such as singing,
dancing and more. Admission is $10. All
proceeds will benet the D.C. Center and
GLOE. For more information, search Nice
Jewish Boys on Facebook.
Jasmines Tea Party, a queer-focused
performing art show and dance party,
is at Ten Tigers Parlour (3813 Georgia
Ave., N.W.) today from 5 p.m.-midnight.
From 5-6 p.m. guests are invited to have
a dim-sum dinner with complimentary
tea. At 7:30 the rst show begins with a
second show following after intermission.
Veteran and beginner performers are
welcome. DJ Jacq Jill and DJ the Barber
Streisand will spin tracks. For more
details, search Jasmines Tea Party on
Facebook.
MONDAY, AUG. 14
TheatreWashington hosts Showtunes
& Cocktails at Beacon Bar & Grill (1615
Rhode Island Ave., N.W.) tonight from
7-10 p.m. Maestro Glenn Pearson will
play the piano and guest artist Wood Van
Meter will also perform. There will be
happy hour specials and theater ticket
giveaways. Admission is pay what you
can. Ten percent of proceeds will benet
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
CA LE N D A R
Beacon Bar & Grill. For more details, visit
facebook.com/theatrewashington.
Uproar Lounge & Restaurant (639
Florida Ave., N.W.) hosts an open mic
tonight from 7-9 p.m. All talent in welcome
including comedians, singers, instrument
playing and more. All participants will
receive a complimentary drink ticket and
will be added into a rae for a $25 bar
tab. For more information, visit facebook.
com/uproarloungedc.
TUESDAY, AUG. 15
Trade (1410 14th St., N.W.) holds Sissy
That Tuesday: The Gags tonight from 8
p.m.-midnight. Lady Gaga music will play
all night. Pussy Noir will host the party.
For more information, visit facebook.
com/tradebardc.
WEDNESDAY, AUG. 16
Nu Androids, a D.C.-based electronic
music event group, hosts its three-year
anniversary at Flash (645 Florida Ave.,
N.W.) tonight from 10 p.m.-2 a.m. DJ
Michael Calfan will spin tracks. DJ Mlem
opens the show. Tickets are $20. For
more information, visit ashdc.com.
Capital Area Gay & Lesbian Chamber
of Commerce (CAGLCC) hosts its LGBT
Business Enterprise Certication
Workshop at National Gay & Lesbian
Chamber of Commerce (729 15th St.,
N.W.) today from 9:30-11 a.m. The
informational workshop for majority
LGBT-owned businesses will include
lessons on how to navigate MyNGLCC,
developing a business prole, programing
and events information, tips for business
growth and more. A light breakfast, coee
and juice will be provided. Admission is
free but registration is required. For more
details, visit lgbtbedc2017.eventbrite.
com.
The Tom Davoren Social Bridge
Club meets tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the
Dignity Center (721 8th St., S.E.) for social
bridge. No partner needed. For more
information, call 301-345-1571.
Bookmen D.C., an informal mens gay
literature group, discusses A History of
Gay Male Literature, by Gregory Woods
at the D.C. Center (2000 14th St., N.W.)
tonight at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome. For
details, visit bookmendc.blogspot.com.
The Big Gay Book Group meets
tonight at 6:45 p.m. at East City Bookshop
(645 Pennsylvania Ave, S.E., suite 100)
to discuss After the Blue Hour by John
Rechy. E-mail biggaybookgroup@hotmail.
com to RSVP. Newcomers welcome.
THURSDAY, AUG. 17
AGLA hosts its new book club at Crytsal
Thai Restaurant (4819 1st St N., Arlington,
Va.) tonight from 7:30-8:30 p.m. The group
will be discussing My Father and Myself
by JR Ackerman. Everyone is welcome.
RSVP in advance by emailing info@agla.
org. For more information, visit agla.org.
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
A D V I CE
Trump-supporting Mom
causes gay son strife
MICHAEL RADKOWSKY, Psy.D. is a licensed
psychologist who works with gay individuals
and couples in D.C. He can be found online
at personalgrowthzone.com. All identifying
information has been changed for reasons
of condentiality. Have a question? Send it to
michaelradkowsky.com
MICHAEL,
When is it appropriate to cut a family
member out of your life?
Although it took my mom some time to
come around, she has been supportive of
my being gay over the years. Especially
considering her conservative and
religious background.
However, my mom voted for Trump
last November. I was furious at the time
for many reasons, including, of course,
the numerous anti-gay people in his inner
circle.
When I pushed her on her support, she
referred to Trumps having proclaimed
his support of LGBT issues and said she
would be rst in line to demonstrate
against him if he took any steps against
the LGBT community. This calmed me
somewhat.
Well, she has yet to don her marching
shoes.
I held my tongue over Trumps
demonstrations of contempt for gay
people through such moves as his not
endorsing LGBT Pride Month. But the
latest, his tweet attempting to kick
trans people out of the military and his
Department of Justice declaring that gay
rights arent covered by the Civil Rights
Act, has me newly enraged.
How could my mom support this? She
has not replied to this question.
I dont see the point of talking to
her. My blood is boiling. Whatever her
reasons for voting for this hateful bigot
last November, how can she pick him
over the rights, safety and well-being of
her own child?
MICHAEL REPLIES:
Wow. To have your own mother
A U G U S T 11, 2017 37
support an administration that is
working to implement and perpetuate
discrimination against you is infuriating
and heartbreaking.
I can see some benets if you want to
stop interacting with her in the short run.
Youll be giving yourself a chance to cool
o and put a little space between you and
this painful situation.
But cutting your mother out of your
life is not an easy x, because it doesnt
guarantee youll stop feeling hurt and
being angry at her. As long as you keep
stewing over her behavior, your blood will
keep boiling.
Moreover trying to punish her or get
her to change her mind by shutting the
door on her until she joins an anti-Trump
march is unlikely to result in her re-
thinking her decision or in the two of you
having a loving, warm relationship down
the road.
So if you would like to be calm(er) about
your mothers stance, youd be better o
nding a dierent long-term path than
closing the door on her.
But how to accomplish such a goal?
How do you make your peace with and
possibly be close to someone who has
voted against your equality in our society?
Some possibilities:
Accept that your mother, like everyone
else, is awed
Remember that your mother has her
good points
Do your best to be respectful because
she is your mother
Keep in mind that growth and change
are always possible
Consider that you may yet inuence
your mother over time, as you have in the
past
Know that retaliating may lead your
mother to dig in her heels and justify her
position
For all of these reasons, you may want
to leave the door open in the long run,
cultivating an attitude of patience and
open-mindedness while you encourage
your mother to shift her position. This is
not easy, I know.
Perhaps she will come around. And
perhaps she will not.
If she holds to her current stance, you
may have a hard time staying in contact
with her. That would be sad, Im sure, as
you describe her having been a caring
mother up to the present.
One more thought: If you cut your mom
out of your life, youll be cooperating with
Trumps agenda to divide Americans.
 WASHINGTONBLADE.COM

3 8 A UGUST 1 1 , 2017 P H O T O S BY CH RI S J E N N I N G S

Patrons enjoyed a night out at the Baltimore Eagle on Saturday, Aug. 5.

W A SH I N GTO NB LAD E.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 3 9

Look as Young as You Feel

Body Contouring/Cellulite
Medical Weight Loss
Acne Treatment
Botox, Dysport, Xeomin
Restylane, Juvederm,
Radiesse
PRP Hair Restoration
Laser Hair Removal
Micro Needling
Chemical Peels & ViPeel
Fractional CO2 Laser
Skin Rejuvenation (IPL/
Photofacial)

Any Service Botox Any Dermal Filler ViPeel

$
50 $
10unit
(Retails $15/unit)
$
450
(Retails $650)
$
175
(Retails $350)
8 8 8 8

Impressions FREE
10560 Main Street Suite 307 Fairfax VA 22030 Consultation
Medical Call Now!
Aesthetics 703-273-0001 www.ImpressionsMediSpa.com

4 0 A UGUS T 1 1 , 2017
Columbia natives reect on progressive upbringing
PIONEER, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29
time. Even our mailboxes were designed
to bring people together communal
boxes that became daily destinations and
places for neighbors to meet.
Rouses dream included a deep respect
for the environment and an appreciation
for tness and the outdoors. Columbia
residents enjoyed access to parks,
endless miles of paved bike paths, health
clubs, neighborhood swimming pools
and more. The towns schools would be
the envy of the country and, to this day,
Howard Countys public schools are still
ranked among the best.
I edited our monthly newspaper at my
high school, Hammond Highs Bear Press.
We tackled controversial and sensitive
subjects like teen suicide. We studied
foreign languages, reading French authors
in the original text and chatting with foreign
exchange students over progressive
dinners. It was an academically challenging
curriculum, before the days of demonizing
education and dismissing curious students
as elitist. Teachers constantly pushed and
challenged us. My teachers at Hammond
Sherry Conklin for English and journalism;
Karen Dunlop for French; and Kathleen
Nawrocki for government and history
were the best I ever encountered.
There were even a few openly gay and
bisexual students, which was brave and
rare given the fear and hatred unleashed
by the growing AIDS epidemic. When
my decidedly alternative friends and I
delivered a choreographed performance
of Kung Fu Fighting at the high school
talent show complete with a drag
component, no one batted an eye. I
graduated from high school in 1988, long
before the days of Gay-Straight Alliances.
Still, those of us who grew up in
Columbia had friends of all backgrounds
from the beginning of rst grade
dierent religions and races and economic
situations. Subsidized apartments and
upscale single-family homes were built
Blade Editor KEVIN NAFF in 1970s Columbia.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NAFF
within a stones throw of each other. And
those streets were named after works of
literature, odd names like Greco Garth
and Deep Smoke. Neighborhoods were,
in turn, named after the authors behind
the street names, hence Longfellow,
Dickinson and Hawthorne.
In our cynical times, polluted with the
crass cruelty of social media attacks,
all of this nostalgia sounds naive and
Pollyanna. But it wasnt that way for
those of us who lived it and can now look
back and appreciate the laudable goals
that Rouse set out for himself and the
residents of his city.
Was it perfect? Of course not. But after
moving away to attend college at Penn
State and encountering a roommate who
had never met a black person, I quickly
realized how lucky I was to have grown
up in Columbia.
As Columbia celebrates 50 years, I
hope its current residents remember
James Rouse and his vision. As Rouse put
it, the only valid ultimate purpose of any
civilization is to grow better people; more
creative, more productive, more inspired,
more loving people.
EDUCATION, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29
RASHANNA LEE (right) with her sister in 1990s Columbia. Lee is a 2017 Blade summer intern in its
editorial department.
As I got older, the repetitive and seemingly
predictable nature of Columbia combined
with classic teen angst caused me to resent
the upbringing that my parents worked so
hard to give me. I hated the familiar feeling
of Columbia. I started going to New York
City and exploring D.C. on weekends and
I wanted a taste of metropolitan life. I
wanted to be edgier.
It wasnt until the rst weekend I came
home from college at Penn State in
central Pennsylvania that I really valued
what I had growing up. I remember
getting o Route 100 and feeling relieved
that I entered the bubble of familiarity I
had grown to hate so much before. As I
drove into my neighborhood and saw all
the dierent faces and types of people
that were able to exist in such a relatively
small city, I was thankful.
When James Rouse founded Columbia
in 1967 he had a vision. He wanted
Columbia to be a place where people of all
religions, races, socioeconomic statuses
and ethnicities could live in harmony. As I
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
A RT S & E N T E RT A I N ME N T
PHOTO COURTESY OF LEE
walk the quiet streets of Columbia I realize
that I am proof of the success of his vision.
Growing up here has allowed me a certain
sensibility and sensitivity that my friends
from other towns and cities dont have or
dont quite understand.
Columbia has grown exponentially
since I was growing up. I can remember
picking pumpkins and riding horses
on various local farms that are now
townhouses or shopping centers.
Although the size of the city has changed,
the spirit of it has not. I see bumper
stickers, ags and advertisements for
community groups pledging support for
people of all walks of life.
As the world has become more open
minded and tolerant, so has Columbia.
Its a place that grounds me when my
world has become too big and I need
to come back down to earth. When Im
home, I see the good in people as it is
exemplied in the genial and community-
oriented spirits of the people around me.
That is a powerful thing.
W A SH I N GTO NB LAD E.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 4 1
4 2 A UGUST 1 1 , 2017 W A SH I N G T O N BLA D E . CO M

Its Like Retirement, Only Better

Ingleside at Rock Creek and Ingleside at King Farm are now expanding your possibilities for engaged
retirement living. Creekside at Ingleside at Rock Creek and Gardenside at Ingleside at King Farm, our
upcoming additions, represent even more choices for discerning people 62 years of age or better. Both
communities offer an exceptional, independent lifestyle with upscale offerings, modern amenities and the
security of five-star rated, on-site health services.
Dont miss your opportunity to take advantage of priority choice locations!

An Ingleside Community An Ingleside Community

For more information call 202-470-3413 For more information call 240-380-2678
3050 Military Road NW Washington, DC 701 King Farm Blvd. Rockville, MD
www.ircdc.org www.inglesidekingfarm.org
Ingleside at Rock Creek and Ingleside at King Farm are CARF accredited, not-for-profit, continuing care retirement communities.

Ingleside at King Farm is expanding with the proposed building of 125 new independent living apartments, 32 private assisted living memory support suites, and a Center for Healthy Living subject to approval by the Maryland Department of Aging.
 Attorneys that are OUTthinking |OUTspoken |OUTdoing
ackermanbrown.com

W A SH I NGTO N B LA DE.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 4 3

REALESTATE

Home loans likely easier to secure now

Many mortgage lenders
easing their credit
standards
By DONNA EVERS
There is good news for some home-
buyers who are ready to find the home of
their dreams.
According to Fannie Mae, a leading
source of financing for mortgage lend-
ers, which provides access to affordable
mortgage financing in the United States,
there is new evidence that shows many
mortgage lenders across America are
easing their credit standards.
Fannie Mae conducted a survey in the
second quarter of this year entitled, the
Mortgage Lender Sentiment Survey and
have released the results, which show
that a growing number of lenders are re-
porting that they are loosening some of
their credit standards, or that they plan to
do so, in the next three months.
This is good news for anyone who is
ready to find a home to buy. Qualifying
for home loans has not been the easiest
process in the last few years, so this news
will be welcome to individuals and fami-
lies who want to buy and have been not
able to because of super strict credit stan-
dards imposed by banks as a result of the
recession of 2007-2008.
There is no doubt that securing home
loans has been challenging for many
would-be buyers since the recession. For
those who have been working on saving
money in order to buy, I would encourage
them to review their credit profiles with
a mortgage professional. Evers & Com-
pany can recommend an array of quali-
fied lenders to use as a reference. These
professionals can help advise prospec-
tive homebuyers as to how much they
can afford, what their credit scores are
at present, and if necessary, how to im-
prove their credit rating. Call our main of-
fice at 202-364-1700 and we will give you
references for qualified lenders, so you
can call and interview these profession-
With inventory tight, some lenders are easing their credit standards.
als, ask the questions about your lending
power, cash needed for a purchase, and
your credit score. lenders indicated that they are leaning
The feedback from lenders indicated toward easing up on these strict credit
that their loan volume is down because guidelines. This, in turn, will allow more
of tight inventory. Combine this with strict people to become homeowners. So, if Evers & Co. is led by DONNA EVERS and her
firm remains the largest independent, woman-
qualifying standards and you get fewer you havent done it yet, call us and make owned and-operated residential real estate
people getting mortgages, so it comes an appointment to learn about your level company in the metropolitan D.C. area, with
100 dedicated agents and four offices in-
as no surprise that the feedback Fannie of affordability. Your dream home may cluding two in the District, one in Bethesda/
Mae received when polling mortgage be within reach after all. Chevy Chase and one in Virginia.

THINKING OF BUYING IN REHOBOTH?

SPRAWLING RANCH
TRANSLATION:
INEFFICIENT
Now is the time. Call Joe, Your Working Broker.
FLOOR PLAN

To be used at the top of collateral:

VALERIE M. BLAKE, Associate Broker, GRI, Director of Education & Mentorship

Dupont Circle Ofce 202-518-8781 (o) 202.246.8602 (c) To be used at the bottom of collateral:

Valerie@DCHomeQuest.com www.DCHomeQuest.com LICENSED IN DELAWARE & MARYLAND

4 4 A UGUST 1 1 , 2017 W A SH I N G T O N BLA D E . CO M

L a n d s c a p e A rc h i t e c t s
Interior Designers
Design + Build

E
GL AND DE

N
HOFD
EN

SI
GN
NE

HALL

2015
EE
O
FA CT

F
M E INDU

Boston | Washington DC
zenassociates.com | 800.834.6654

I like staying in shape, listening to

Adele, and shopping in Friendship
Heights with my mom and sisters. Great
for
cuddling...
Im a
transgender woman
and Im part of DC.

Please treat me the way any

woman would want to be treated:
with courtesy and respect.
Discrimination based on gender identity and
expression is illegal in the District of Columbia.
If you think youve been the target of
discrimination, visit www.ohr.dc.gov
or call (202) 727-4559.
OFFICE OF
Not so great for Disaster Relief
When disaster strikes, compassionate people want to help. While donations of
clothing, food, bottled water or toys may feel more personal than a monetary
donation, the truth is that even a small financial contribution can do more good for
more people, with greater speed and sensitivity. Cash donations provide medical
and other life-saving services now, and rebuild infrastructure later. Even little
donations can generate big, lasting impacts for good.
Send a different kind of comfort.
Learn how to give smarter at USAID CIDI online: www.cidi.org.

GLBT
AFFAIRS

Show your support! Spread word of the #TransRespect

campaign by photographing this ad and sharing on Twitter.
 DEADLINES
All Classified Ads
- Including Regular & Adult - SHARE ADS ARE FREE.
Must Be Received Place your HOUSING TO SHARE
By Mondays at 5PM ad online at washingtonblade.com
So They Can Be Included and the ad prints free in the paper and online.*
in That Weeks Edition of *25 words or less prints free - anything more is $1/word.
Washington Blade and
washingtonblade.com

W A SH I N GTO NB LA DE.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 4 5

GETAWAYS
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIEDS ONLINE DEADLINES
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM All Classified Ads
- Including Regular & Adult -
Must Be Received
By Mondays at 5PM
MASSAGE / CERTIFIED washingtonblade.com

VOTED #1 BEST Of Gay DC

Schedule your massage
PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIEDS ONLINE
in Arlington Sun-Tue or
DC Wed, Fri, Sat. Call or
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM
text Gary at 301-704-
1158 or visit http://www.
mymassagebygary.com. WHOLISTIC SERVICES,
INC. seeking Full
Time Direct Support
BODY & SOUL Professionals to assist
intellectually disabled LEGAL SERVICES
NEED ANSWERS? PSYCHIC
adolescents & adults
MEDITATION will not only give you ADOPTION & ASSISTED
your answers but also teach you to
with behavioral health REPRODUCTIVE Law
relaxed. Call now special services &
issues in group homes & Attorney Jennifer
free crystals 407-885-0882. day services throughout Fairfax represents
DC. Requirements 1 clients in DC, MD & VA.
year exp., valid drivers interested in adoption
COUNSELING license, able to lift 50-75 or ART matters.301-
lbs, complete training 221-9651,JFairfax@
LGBTQ AFFIRMING program, become DDS jenniferfairfax.com.
THERAPY at Dupont Circle Med Certified within 4
Individuals, couples, months of hire, ability to
FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM
families, adolescents. pass security background
Representing the GLBT community
Over 15 years serving check. Associates
for over 35 years. Family adoptions,
the community. Mike HEALING MENTALLY PHYSICALLY degree preferred. For estate planning, immigration,
Giordano, LICSW. 202/460- AND emotionally call now for more information, employment. (301) 891-2200.Silber,
6384 mike.giordano. unforgettable experience, 407-885-
please contact the Perlman, Sigman & Tilev, P.A. www.
msw@gmail.com. www. ENHANCE YOUR Human Resources (HR) SP-Law. com.
0882.
WhatIHearYouSaying. Department at
AD WITH OUR (202) 347-5334.
com.
UPGRADES LIMOUSINES
EMPLOYMENT PICTURES LOCKER ROOM ATTENDANTS
COUNSELING FOR
GAY MEN. Individual/ LUXURY AUTOMOBILE SALES
BOLD TEXT NEEDED! The Crew Club, a gay mens KASPERS LIVERY
couple counseling Professional Needed Experience in LARGE TEXT naturist gym & sauna, is now hiring
Locker Room Attendants. We all SERVICE Since 1987.
w/ volunteer peer automotive preferred. Other luxury COLOR scrub toilets & do heavy cleaning. You Gay & Veteran Owner/
counselor. Gay Mens Operator. 2016 Luxury
Counseling Community
retail experience will be considered. AND MORE must be physically able to handle the
BMW 750Li Sedan.
work & have a great attitude doing
since 1973. 202-580-8861. Jim Coleman Cadillac is conveniently CONTACT US AT it. No drunks/druggies need apply. Properly Licensed &
gaymenscounseling. located in Bethesda right behind 202-747-2077 Please call David at (202) 319-1333. Livery Insured in DC.
org. No fees, donation Montgomery Mall. Call Peter Lee. from 9-5pm, to schedule an interview. www.KasperLivery.com.
requested. 301-469-6600. Phone 202-554-2471.

Cognitive-Behavioral SIMPLE
Therapy
Results-Oriented Affordable AFFORDABLE
Larry Cohen, LICSW PROVEN RESULTS
30 years serving the LGBT community
202-244-0903 CALL TODAY TOPLACE YOUR AD
socialanxietyhelp.com
See website for NPR story on my work
202.747.2077

DAVE LLOYD & ASSOCIATES

Top 1% Nationwide
NVAR Life Member Top Producder

703-593-3204
WWW.DAVELLOYD.NET

ENTHUSIASTICALLY
SERVING DC & VIRGINIA
 DEADLINES
all Classified ads
SHARE ADS ARE FREE. - Including Regular & Adult -
Place your HOUSING TO SHARE Must Be Received
ad online at washingtonblade.com By Mondays at 5PM
and the ad prints free in the paper and online.* So They Can Be Included
*25 words or less prints free - anything more is $1/word. in That Weeks Edition of
Washington Blade and
washingtonblade.com

4 6 A UGUST 1 1 , 2017 W A SH I N G T O N BLA D E . CO M

Always FREE to listen and reply to ads!

PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIEDS ONLINE
WASHINGTONBLADE.COM

PET BREEDERS
AUSTRALIAN
LABRADOODLE PUPPIES Playmates or soul mates,
available now. Chocolates
youll find them on MegaMates
& black. 25-35 lbs.
Fleece coat. Take home
September 27th & 29th. Washington:
Call Tom at 703-819-
7391 or visit website: (202) 448-0824
Providencehillaustralian
www.megamates.com 18+

labradoodles.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY TREE SERVICE

ENHANCE YOUR
STEVE OTOOLE BRANCHES TREE EXPERT AD WITH OUR
PHOTOGRAPHY Fine UPGRADES
Art Photographer Company. Full service
for Portraits & certified arborists, PICTURES
Weddings.Check out pruning, insect & BOLD TEXT
my new website - www.
disease diagnosis, LARGE TEXT
steveotoolephotography.
com. Specializing in treatment & removal. COLOR
Bears & Big men. 301-589-6181. www.
AND MORE
Steve 703-861-4422.
BranchesTreeExperts.
CONTACT US AT
com. Angies List Award
202-747-2077
CLEANING Winner.
FERNANDOS CLEANING:
Residential & Commercial
Cleaning, Reasonable BODYWORK
Rates, Free Estimates,
Routine, 1-Time, Move-In/
Move-Out. (202) 234-7050,
202-486-6183.

TELLEM YOU saW ThEir ad in ThE

Blade classifieds!

MOVERS
OUR GUYS AROUND
TOWN MOVERS.
Professional Moving
& storage. Let Our
Guys Do The Heavy
Lifting. Mention the TOP RATED MASSEUR
Blade for 10% off of Custom bodywork!
our regular rates. Call
today 202.734.3080. www. Exceptional deep tissue
ourguysatmovers.com. & sensual bodywork
for total stress relief in
PEST CONTROL private studio both on
the Hill & at Farragut
EJS PEST CONTROL Square. Call Erik 202-
Insect, Rodent, & Critter
Control. Effective 544-5688. In calls only!
Experience Detecting No texts! Intro Special
& Eliminating All Types $99.00.
of Household Pests
including Ants, Bed Bugs,
Termites & Rodents. THE MAGIC TOUCH: SWEDISH,
Schedule your Pest
Inspection Today (202) Massage or Deep Tissue. Appts 202-
455-9924. DC, MD, VA, DE. 486-6183, Low Rates, 24/7, In-Calls.
W A SH I N GTO NB LAD E.C OM A U G U ST 1 1 , 2 0 1 7 4 7