President Obama, Bishop Robinson and Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies (DTAA)

HRC email received 01-17-09

"Dear kelli,

Tomorrow, in one of the most humbling honors of my life, I will deliver an invocation at the first event of inauguration week.
Though many of us were deeply upset when President-elect Obama chose Proposition 8 supporter Rev. Rick Warren to speak at his inauguration, the fact that he also invited me – a proud gay man – is a hopeful sign of our president's commitment to reach out to all Americans.
Now it's up to all of us to capitalize on this moment and ensure that President-elect Obama works for equality.
Join me in asking Obama to take the next step by supporting HRC's Blueprint for Positive Change – a roadmap for LGBT equality."~Bishop V Gene Robinson

I support HRC's roadmap to equality because it is in the best interest of the entire GLBT community.

What brought bishop Robinson into this picture above with the Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies(DTAA) is the gulf of misunderstandings and ignorance of the established church about transgender and Queer issues and sensibilities. The Dallas Black Tie inc. which was hosting Bishop Robinson and presenting him with the Elizabeth Birch Award later that evening was ironically named for a former president of HRC who is credited with saying she would "include transgender people in ENDA over her dead body" .

The Dallas Black Tie Inc. presents HRC with roughly $400,000 dollars annually from this event alone. I protest HRC for inexplicably blindsiding Queer and transgender people in a backroom deal, removing us from ENDA (HR)2015 and assenting to Congressman Frank in dividing our communities human rights movement in 2007. The words Bishop Robinson and I spoke during or conversation were often foreign and left unresolved misunderstandings. In my heart of hearts
I still beleive and have personaly witnessed in our own church's how transgender people because of our highly visible hacking, beating and shooting deaths are being used by HRC as sympathy garners and a method of raising money to party at "Gala Events".

A despicable and unchristian practice.

Yes Joe Solomese and Bishop Robinson, others have also noticed.

HRC will have to prove to me by being a loyal and trustworthy advocate over time you are a worthy ally. This is a demand, not a request and is nonnegotiable.

The fact Bishop Robinson attended the Dallas Transgender event speaks volumes of the progressive nature of our Episcopal Diosese of New Hampshire and we should give accolades to Bishop Robinson for this great achievement, however we cannot assume Queer and Transgender concerns are being voiced at the table with the same passion and equity as Gay and Lesbians are by Bishop Robinson.

I personally feel that the Transgender Community has an opportunity and an obligation to step up and let ourselves be heard NOW. We can not rely on ANY central group to secure our place in history. It is up to you and me everyday in small and large ways to be the change.

Kelli Busey
Jan. 17, 2009
planetransgender

planetransgender
Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies(DTAA)

Honduran Transgender Community Terrified After Third Murder

By On Top Magazine Staff Published: January 16, 2009 Honduran Transgender Community Terrified After Third Murder

The violent murder of a prominent transgender rights activist in Honduras has left the transgender community stunned and terrified.

Cynthia Nicole, a prominent transgender rights activist, was fatally wounded by three shots in the chest and one in the head in a violent drive-by shooting in the district of Barrio Guaserique in Comayaguela during the early hours of January 9.

Her death comes on the heels of two additional killings against transgender sex workers in the Central American country. Yasmin was attacked and killed on November 20, and Noelia was stabbed to death on December 17

Complete article at On Top

"Equality For All Texans Support HB 538"

"Equality For All Texans Support HB 538" A Facebook Group which is seeking to inform and gain support for the introduction and passage of a Sexual and Gender workplace non discrimination bill in the present session of the Texan Legislature.

House Bill 538 prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression.(Click here for HB538 Text)

The bill will incorporate sexual orientation and gender identity/expression into all existing labor code sections dealing with nondiscrimination, treating them equally with race, color, disability, religion, sex, national origin, or age

GET INVOLVED:
1) Call your state representative directly and inform him/her know that as their constituent this bill is very important to you as well as why it is important. And ask your friends and family call their representatives.
Click here to find out who your State Representative is.

2) Pass this information to everyone you know whether or not they are gay.

3) Post this information on your MySpace, Facebook or any other online community that you belong to.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

HOW A BILL GET'S PASSED AT A GLANCE!

1) A State Representative files the bill in the house (in this case it has been Bdone)

2) In a few weeks the bill will get assigned to a committee.

3) A hearing is then scheduled in which any one (including you) can go before the panel and state your case. (Once the bill get’s to this step everyone will be informed so that we can all caravan up to Austin to state our
case.)

4) The Committee will vote on whether or not it will go before the House of Representatives and if the bill is approved by the committee:

5) The bill then goes to the Calendar Committee which schedules the bill for a vote. (This is a process that we as a community need to monitor closely because
not all bills get scheduled. If a bill does not get scheduled then it dies.)

6) At the time determined by the Calendar committee The House of
Representatives will then vote on the Bill. If the bill passes:
7) The State Senate will vote whether or not the bill goes before the Governor.
If the State Senate approves the bill:

8) The Governor will then have final say as to whether or not the bill becomes
a law.


By Kelli Busey
Jan. 15, 2009
planetransgender

National Freedom to Marry Day

National Freedom to Marry Day
Feb 12, 2009

On National Freedom to Marry Day, all Marriage Equality USA® Chapters and Member Organizations will participate in Marriage Equality USA's National Freedom to Marry Events. Marriage Equality USA® has also partnered with Join The Impact for this national event. Thursday, February 12, 2009, at local marriage counters in cities all over the country, same-sex couples will request marriage licenses at their local County Clerk’s Offices to raise awareness of the harms and impact the inability to marry causes on their families.



Since 2001, Marriage Equality USA® chapters have engaged in these annual marriage counter actions to render visible the discrimination that is enforced every day. It is an affront to our basic dignity as fellow human beings when same-sex couples are turned away from the marriage counter, but it gives us the opportunity to tell our stories and show that we live in every community and want to honor and protect our families like everyone else. Everyone who supports marriage equality is welcomed to attend and support this event.

By Kelli Busey
Jan. 15, 2009
planetransgender

TEXAS to decide fate of Gender inclusive "ENDA" HB508

By: Villarreal H.B. No. 538

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the prohibition of employment discrimination on the
basis of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 21.002, Labor Code, is amended by adding
Subdivisions (9-a) and (13-a) to read as follows:
(9-a) "Gender identity or expression" means having or
being perceived as having a gender-related identity, appearance,
expression, or behavior, whether or not that identity, appearance,
expression, or behavior is different from that commonly associated
with the person's actual or perceived sex.
(13-a) "Sexual orientation" means the actual or
perceived status of an individual with respect to the individual's
sexuality.
SECTION 2. Section 21.051, Labor Code, is amended to read as
follows:
Sec. 21.051. DISCRIMINATION BY EMPLOYER. An employer
commits an unlawful employment practice if because of race, color,
disability, religion, sex, national origin, [or] age, sexual
orientation, or gender identity or expression the employer:
(1) fails or refuses to hire an individual, discharges
an individual, or discriminates in any other manner against an
individual in connection with compensation or the terms,
conditions, or privileges of employment; or
(2) limits, segregates, or classifies an employee or
applicant for employment in a manner that would deprive or tend to
deprive an individual of any employment opportunity or adversely
affect in any other manner the status of an employee.
Full bill at www.legis.state.tx.us

Please contact Representative Michael Villarreal and tell him that you support his efforts.

By Kelli Busey
Jan. 14, 2009
planetransgender

Tell Pepsi THANK YOU For Supporting Our Families!

Last week, the American Family Association launched a boycott of PepsiCo. The AFA boycott is based, in part, on the PepsiCo Foundation's support of PFLAG’s Straight for Equality in the Workplace project.

Please let Pepsi know that you appreciate their support for our families and will support the company when you are shopping.

Please call PepsiCo's customer relations line at 1-800-433-2652 today.

When you call, please be brief in your comments. Politely tell the operator that:

You are a PFLAG member and want to thank Pepsi for its support of your family;
You plan to purchase Pepsi products whenever possible to show your support for the company’s welcoming policies; and
You support Pepsi and your area bottlers and will refuse to participate in the boycott.


For more information on Pepsi’s generous gift to Straight for Equality, click here.

Thank you for your support of PFLAG, Straight for Equality and PepsiCo. Then, forward this alert to all of your friends . . . ask them to support PepsiCo . . . and remember when you shop to buy Pepsi products, like Tropicana, Frito Lay, Quaker and Gatorade.

New York Civil Liberties Union-President Obama CLOSE GITMO AND END THE MILITARY COMMISSIONS

“As President, I will close Guantánamo, reject the Military Commissions Act, and adhere to the Geneva Conventions”
– Barack Obama 8/1/07

Tell President elect Obama you support the restitution of American justice and social equality by signing this letter by the New York Civil Liberties Union!

Dear President-elect Obama,

I was deeply moved by your recent affirmation that you will close the Guantánamo detention facilities and shut down the military commissions, which have been a stain on America here, at home and abroad.

Nothing would make me prouder than to see you act on your first day in office to restore America's moral leadership in the world.

With one stroke of your pen, you can close Guantánamo Bay prison, shut down military commissions, and ban torture.

The Bush administration created a prison camp at Guantánamo - a place where they claimed the law didn't apply. They detained hundreds of men without charge or trial, authorized torture, and prosecuted some prisoners in military commissions that violate our Constitution and international law.

We can't let the system of injustice George W. Bush put in place stand - not for a single day.

I want you to know that I will support your leadership on this vitally important issue in every possible way. And I will stand by you every step of the way to resist those calling for you to "go slow" or "wait for the right time" to act in defense of American freedom.

New York Civil Liberties Union.

Transgender and Gay Ordinance in Kalamazoo under Attack

Kalamazoo's new Gay and Transgender city ordinances are being challenged and the Kalamazoo Alliance says your Help is Needed to Keep the new Equal Rights Ordinance in Kalamazoo.

"Join us at City Hall on Monday, January 12 at 6pm for the City Commission Meeting on the second floor of City Hall."

Kalamazoo news " The commission unanimously approved amendments Dec. 1 making it a civil infraction to discriminate against gay, lesbian or transgender individuals in housing, public accommodations or employment."

"But a petition drive spearheaded by the American Family Association of Michigan collected more than enough signatures in the 20 days after the new ordinance language became effective to bring the issue back to the commission and potentially to a public vote."

"Regardless of the action commissioners take Monday night, the expanded protections will not be enforceable, at least in the short term, says City Attorney Clyde Robinson."

A direct vote in May could decide whether Kalamazoo will remain the 17th Michigan city to extend human rights to Gay, Lesbian and Transgender people.

By kelli Busey
Jan. 11, 2009
planetransgender

Dallas DOMA Protest January 2009

There were aprox. 35 protesters attending the rally on the square at 509 Main St. to bring attention to the incoming Obama administration of the inequities being suffered by the GLBT community under DOMA.
We did however attract group of hate mongers who after being escorted across the street by the police proceeded to yell hate inspired slogans as we peacefully continued our rally. After a while of this they knelt and began to pray, I presume asking for forgiveness for being such huge bigots. I also prayed for them. God please forgive these mislead disciples. They have been taught to hate and spread violence enabling vicious lies. Please help them to love their neighbours. Amen.


By Kelli Busey
Jan. 10, 2009
planetransgender

Gainesville Fl : Misleading Anti Transgender Ad Exposed

A Florida based Hate Group has unleashed a propaganda campaign insinuating that if Gainesville Fl transgender protective laws are allowed to stand men will follow your childern into bathrooms.

According to Fox News Gainesville City Commissioner Crag Lowe, the leader of a group called Equality is Gainesville's Business, has called the ads from Davis' group a grossly distorted attempt to whip up fears.



The train of thought which would lead to the conclusion that enacting human rights to protect a vulnerable class of people would embolden pedophiles to commit crimes when previously the lack of same laws prohibited them is beyond me. The group "Citizens for Good Public Policy", who produced this video were called on to answer for this misleading ad after citizens learned of the deception and would not return calls from FOX News.

This video is a attack against me. The last thing a transgender person wants is to offend anyone much less assault anyone. Quite the opposite. Transgender people are the ones being victimized.

The only thing missing from that video was men dragging this man out of the ladies room and lynching him.

I live in a city where transgender people are protected by laws similar to Gainesville. There has been no increase of crime targeting children attributable to enactment of gender protective laws in this city or any other city or state.

Queers United: Dr. Phil Playing Into Transphobia Once Again!

Queers United: Dr. Phil Playing Into Transphobia Once Again!

MassEquality Trans Focused in 20+09

Bay Windows : "MassEquality, the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC), and their coalition partners have made passage of the trans rights bill - which would add protections based on gender identity and expression to the state’s non-discrimination and hate crimes laws - their top priority this session...."

Marc Solomon, executive director of MassEquality, said the organizaton would hold its own community forums across the state in an effort to convince people who were active during the marriage fight to get involved in pass the transgender rights bill. Solomon said he will ask MassEquality’s gay and lesbian supporters to fight for the bill both as a matter of social justice and because the bill will offer protections to the entire LGBT community.

"It’s not that difficult to get people to that place because gay and lesbian people are discriminated against for their gender identity and gender expression," said Solomon.

US Ad Campaign Teaches Students to be Word-Wise about Sexual Orientation

Voice of America news:US Ad Campaign Teaches Students to be Word-Wise about Sexual Orientation

A recent survey of more than 6,000 middle and high school students in the United States found that a majority of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students surveyed said they experienced harassment at school in the past year.

Often, harassment comes in homophobic remarks, which is why The Ad Council of America has teamed up with GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network to try and change students' vocabulary, or at least make them more conscious of it.


By Kelli Busey
Jan 08, 2009
planetransgender

Thomas Hammarberg Europe's Commissioner for Human Rights: Trans discrimination must no longer be tolerated

pinknews.co.uk: Thomas Hammarberg is the Council of Europe's Commissioner for Human Rights released this comment on trans rights on his website yesterday.

“Discrimination against transgender persons must no longer be tolerated”

"My discussions with non-governmental organisations defending the rights of transgender persons indicate that a number of such hate crimes go unreported – even in serious cases. One of the reasons appears to be a lack of trust in the police."

"I have been struck by the lack of knowledge about the human rights issues at stake for transgender persons, even among political decision-makers. This is probably the reason why more has not been done to address transphobia and discrimination based on gender identity. The result is that individuals are discriminated against all over Europe, in areas such as as employment, health care and housing."

Connecticut To Consider Transgender Anti-Discrimination Proposal

Hartford Courant, CT, USA Connecticut To Consider Transgender Anti-Discrimination

Transgender activists believe this is the year they will gain equal protection under the state's anti-discrimination laws.

"We feel good," said Jerimarie Liesegang, who leads the Connecticut TransAdvocacy Coalition. "We've done the groundwork, we've done the education and we know we have the votes."

A proposal, to be introduced in the legislative session that begins Wednesday, would prevent people who in any way blur gender lines from being discriminated against in the workplace or while seeking housing or obtaining credit. More than a dozen states, including California, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Oregon and Rhode Island, have enacted similar laws.

Queers United: Keep Up Pressure on APA Over the Gender Identity Task Force

Queers United: Keep Up Pressure on APA Over the Gender Identity Task Force

Jon Stuart asks Gov. Mike Huckabee "Why gay people?"

The Daily Show With Jon StewartM - Th 11p / 10c

Mike Huckabee Pt. 2

Barack Obama Interview
John McCain Interview

Sarah Palin Video
Funny Election Video

From Courage Campaign

"Usually, discussions of political issues wind down after elections, but Prop 8 is not about politics. It is about love, equality and civil rights.

We all need to talk to our family and friends about the importance of restoring marriage equality to California.

That is why I am asking you to watch the video and join me in thanking Jon Stewart for continuing this conversation."

Courage Campaign.org

Dallas Defense of Marriage Act Protest

For Immediate Release

Nationwide Defense of Marriage Act Protest
Queer Liberaction
Blake Wilkinson
405-535-5406
lgbtliberaction@gmail.com
January 10 at 11:30 am

Historical Plaza behind Records Building
Historical Plaza behind Records Building
509 Main St. in downtown Dallas

Just ten days before Barak Obama will be sworn in as the next president of the United States Queer people across the country will be protesting against the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Let's send a message to the future president that the Queer community is resolutely opposed to this discriminatory piece of federal legislation. We will also demand that the purportedly most GLBT friendly president-elect in history use his new political weight to repeal DOMA along with taking other pro-Gay and pro-equality action.

The Defense of Marriage Act is an anti-Gay piece of federal legislation which does two things. First, it legally excludes GLBT families from marriage benefits by defining marriage on a federal level as between a man and a woman. All the federal benefits that accompany marriage, such as immigration rights and tax breaks, are denied to non-heterosexual couples. DOMA also states that a marriage between two people of the same sex does not need to be recognized outside of the state where that marriage took place. Because of this, same-sex marriages that take place in the two states with marriage equality, Massachusetts and Connecticut, are not required to be recognized by other states.

On paper Obama is for the repeal of DOMA. We can't make the mistake of sitting back and expecting Obama to act on our behalf by taking on pro-Queer initiatives while we sit idly by. Let's hold Obama to his word by keeping the fight for our civil rights unapologetic and in the streets. While the president-elect might be on record as being on our side on the DOMA issue, he still asserts his opposition to marriage equality by saying, "I do not support gay marriage. Marriage has religious and social connotations, and I consider marriage to be between a man and a woman". We can do better. From day 1 of his presidency we will be demanding that Obama stand up for full marriage equality.

Queer Liberaction is an organization dedicated to struggling for the civil rights of GLBT people. We use direct action activism to directly, visibly and publicly confront homophobia along with organizations, institutions, groups or individuals who support or promote discrimination toward the GLBT community

Austin "TRINIDAD" Screening to Benefit (TENT) Transgender Education Network of Texas

Trinidad Screenings and Locations

Screening Jan 4th 5pm, 7:30pm
Special guest cast member Sabrina Marcus Sabrina Marcus will be in attendance along with filmmaker PJ Raval to benefit (TENT) Transgender Education Network of Texas.


About Sabrina:
Sabrina founded the transgender-focused Southern Comfort Conference in Atlanta and is an active member in the International Foundation for Gender Education and the National Center for Transgender Equality. Sabrina worked for nineteen years as a Space Shuttle engineer, until 2003 when she was dismissed after announcing she had begun transitioning from male to female. Sabrina completed her GRS with Dr. Bowers in 2004. In 2005 she moved to Trinidad to open Morning Glow with Dr. Laura Ellis. Sabrina is an active member in Trinidad’s Holy Trinity Church: “Without my faith I’d never have had the strength to transition to a woman.

Alamo Draft House
Showing: Sunday, January 4 - 5:00 pm
Theater: (MAP) Alamo Downtown - 320 E 6th Street Austin Texas Purchase Advance Tickets: TRINIDAD with Special Guest!

Angie Zapata's Life and Death : changed how we are treated

When Angie Zapata was murdered the popular and common practice of mainstream media was to frantically capitalize unmercifully in hopes of obtaining optimum monetary gain by sensationalizing the horrific murders of the gender diverse. The following articles by other media outlets religiously parroted transphobic catch phrases in unabashed bids to grab a piece of the media pie.

This immoral and reprehensible practice perpetuated violence and contributed to a misconception that transgender people were unprotected and uncared for.

But the implications of allowing this practice to proceed unabated reaches even further into our social fabric. All of womankind suffers in a like manner and perhaps far worse as crimes against the cisgendered are often not even reported, much less front page news.

All that came to a halt as an out cry of protests from transgender advocates and allies screamed "Not with Angie."

We can all help, straight and GLBT, to make the lives of our mothers, sisters and daughters, brothers and lovers of value. We can allow this to be a bright new shining day where we can wake and say, today I will care for someone a little more.

By kelli Busey
January 01, 2009
planetransgender

Reconciling Ministries Network doing Gods Work

For myself 2008 was a year of unanticipated profound change with a avalanche of love, passion, caring, worship, happiness and sorrow all bundled together in Jesus's name and presented as the Reconciling Ministries Network!
I had been called to witness(i didn't even know what that meant) and I was confused and scared by this force appearing out of nowhere drawing me to the United Methodists 2008 conference in FT Worth.
This began the most incredible two weeks of my life. What an absolutely fantastic religion! Alive and vibrant, struggling to understand the rainbow of blessings within. The people of the RMN are a driving force inside of the United Methodist Church and are truly doing Gods work. If you are queer, questioning and/or transgender and feel isolated and alone? Dude pull up a chair because we are among our church. The RM puts the work in network and lives radical inclusion.

The Times of Harvey Milk

Feature Film|1:27:34|
This Oscar-winning documentary film covers the successful career and tragic assassination of San Francisco's first openly gay man to be elected to office.

Grab some popcorn and kickback for a great flick. There are some adds sponsored by HULU so we can watch this high quality.

Thanks to Atomic Gay Wonk for posting this:)

Prayers for Bobby

Prayers For Bobby Prayers For Bobby, is a real life powerful drama based on the best selling book. The story is about a mother who could not accept her sons homosexuality, and as a result of his families ignorance, the boy commits suicide. The mother struggles to make peace with herself, and ultimately becomes an advocate on behalf of gay rights.

The drama will air on Lifetime on January 24th at 9pm EST.

Found on Queers United

Ky Dickens new film "Fish Out Of Water"

"Fish out of Water" by film maker Ky Dickens explores the current misconceptions about the bibles interpretation of homosexuality. Ky is featured in the Windy City Times December 12 2008 edition.

"Religion is a complicated topic. Add in homosexuality, and get ready for an onslaught of people saying, “You're wrong,” “That's sinful” and “We'll never see eye to eye.”

"With her new documentary, Fish Out of Water, Chicago filmmaker Ky Dickens tackles both sides with an arsenal of honesty, passion and a little yellow bird."

"Windy City Times recently caught up with Dickens to gain some insight into this ambitious process."

Read more at the Times......

Related articles

Center Stage Chicago theater editor Alicia Eler interviews film maker and director Ky Dickens about her forthcoming revolutionary Ani-Doc film Fish Out of Water.

planetransgender story
Fish Out of Water - "Every thing you have ever heard about homosexuality and the Bible is going to be turned inside Out!"

Fish Out of Water Blog

By Kelli Busey
Dec 28, 2008
planetransgender

' Doubt ' Show times and Locations Nationwide

Doubt Showtimes and Locations Nationwide

(Doubt) follows 'Catholic Woodstock'

"Some prefer to call it a Catholic Woodstock - a festival of peace, love and Christianity.

But the message of World Youth Day has been undercut by the controversies of the recent past: the sexual abuse scandal which refuses to go away.
In the lead up to the event, Australia's most senior Catholic, Cardinal George Pell, has faced fresh allegations of a cover-up in the case of a young man indecently assaulted in the early 1980s.

In a report which generated a barrage of negative headlines, the ABC's Lateline programme revealed the shocking story of Anthony Jones, a religious education coordinator, who was indecently assaulted by a Sydney priest, Father Terence Goodall.

Originally, the Cardinal dismissed Anthony Jones's allegations of sexual assault, saying the church had received no other complaints against Father Goodall.

But newly-uncovered documents reveal that Cardinal Pell was aware of another allegation against the priest."

Doubt Showtimes and Locations Nationwide

Vatican's Christmas Message : Religious creedence to violence in it's purest sense

If the planet is to be saved we must save ourselves from Gays and Transgender people and save the rain forest.
Religious creedence to violence in it's most damning form.

In the event of a natural or man made catastrophe that endangers humanities survival the average Joe (now a average hate filled homophobic Catholic, Mormon or Islamic bot)will find a rope and hang a gay or transgender person.

All this on Christmas eve on the heals of the Catholic and Mormon contribution to the passage of prop.8 and its recent Opposition to Decriminalization of Homosexuality

From the "leader" of the worlds largest "christian" religion.

On Christmas eve there were people responding to this message by wishing the Pope was dead.

On Christmas eve.

One Christian wishing death on another.

Great job Pope. I will not allow anger and hate to rule my life. You are an example of where that leads.
I will make rational thought, prayer, and love and hope my standard. Everyday. God Bless us.

by Kelli Busey
Dec. 26, 2008
planetransgender

USA Refuses to Sign UN Gay and Transgender Rights Declaration

USA Refuses to Sign UN Gay Rights Declaration



The United States refused to sign the United Nations Gay Rights Declaration presented in December 2008.

Here's what you can do to change this:

ENGAGE
Have conversations with your neighbors, friends and family about LGBT rights.

QUESTION
Ask President-elect Barack Obama to support HRC's Blueprint for Positive Change.

UNITE
Powerful change results when more than 10,000,000 LGBT people come together.

ACT
Go to the National DOMA Protests on January 10 and stand among over a million people who want change.

LABOR
We will not rest until all LGBT people are given full and equal civil rights.

For more information, go to Join the Impact at
Join The Impact

Leeneshia Edwards Memphis Transgender Woman Shot in The Face

Found on CW30 ABC, Dana Rebik reported Transgender Woman Shot in Face
"Police say the shooting happened sometime around 5:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 23, 2008 in the 3100 block of Boxtown Road in south Memphis near T.O. Fuller State Park. Leeneshia Edwards was last seen about an hour earlier at the “C.K.’s Coffee Shop” on Union Avenue in midtown Memphis.

Edwards, is now in critical condition at “The Med”. Her cousin tells us Edwards was shot in the jaw, side and back and is undergoing multiple surgeries.

Investigators have not yet been able to interview the shooting victim. Police say there were no eyewitnesses to the shooting when they arrived, and they don't have a description of the shooter or the shooter's car. As far as Duana Johnson’s case, detectives say they have no solid leads. If you have any information about either of these cases, call Memphis Crime Stoppers at (901) 528-CASH."

LGBT we are one Community

"Harvey Milk Understood"

Queers United: Action Needed on UN Declaration Calling for Global Decriminalization of Homosexuality

Queers United: Action Needed on UN Declaration Calling for Global Decriminalization of Homosexuality

Help a Sister Out "Benefit for Hate Rape Victim Richmond Jane Doe"

From Fight The Hate H8, Join The Impact and Dallas Transgender Advocates and Allies "This is about the young woman in No. CA who was brutually beaten and raped by 4 men for being a lesbian and having a rainbow sticker on her car. Please read this article 4 men sought in rape case and invite all your friends."

Event: Help A Sister Out
"Benefit for Hate Rape Victim"
What: Fundraiser
Host: Civil Rights Front
Start Time: Tuesday, December 22 at 5:00pm
End Time: Thursday, December 31 at 5:00pm
Where: From Your Heart

On December 13th, a twenty-eight-year-old California woman was brutally raped by four men because she is a lesbian and had a RAINBOW STICKER on her car.

The woman will need months to recover physically and years and years to recover psychologically. She needs our emotional and financial support.

If you would like to send a card, please mail it to:

Richmond Police Department
Attn: Sgt. Brian Dickerson
1701 Regatta Blvd.
Richmond, CA 94804

If you can send a financial contribution (even a few dollars) to help her pay her medical bills and other costs associated with her recovery, please mail a check payable to Community Violence Solutions to:

Community Violence Solutions
2101 Van Ness Ave.,
San Pablo, CA 94806
Attn: Mrs. Joanne Douglas

In the memo section of the check please write: Richmond Jane Doe


To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:
Help A Sister Out Facebook page

By Kelli Busey
Dec. 23, 2008
planetransgender

Prop. 8 sponsors seek to nullify 18 Thousand marriages

Not satisfied with striping Americans of their constitutional rights the Prop. 8 sponsors seek to nullify 18 thousand gay marriages.
The passage of Prop 8 has ignited outrage that if allowd to stand, a popular vote nullifies a California Supreme Court ruling allowing that the State's Constitutional rights apply to all citizens. This has been expressed locally and nationwide and may further be inflamed by this recent filing.

California Attorney General Jerry Brown who has long been an opponent of Prop 8 will be filing an opposing brief on Friday.

By Kelli Busey kellibusey@yahoo.com
Dec. 20, 2008
planetransgender

MEMORIAL FOR JENNIFER GALE

The Homeless Memorial and Tree of Remembrance on Auditorium Shores at South 1st and Riverside


There will be a memorial for Jennifer Gale on December 21, 2008.
Hosted by House the Homeless and Mobile Loaves and Fishes

Date: Sunday, December 21, 2008
Time: 11:00am - 12:30pm
Location: Lady Bird Lake, south shore, west of S. 1st next to Gazebo
Street: Auditorium Shores lot
City/Town: Austin, TX
View Map
Facebook event page
Facebook Everything Gale
Related Article
Donations are appreciated
House the Homeless
Mobile Loaves and Fishes

Dallas Gay Bachelor Auction

Don't miss the sexiest party of the year! The 6th annual Gay Bachelor Auction is scheduled for Sunday, March 15 at JR's from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The 6th annual Gay Bachelor Auction will be held at JR's Bar and Grill Dallas
on Sunday, March 15, 2009 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Applications are currently being accepted for men and women who are interested in participating as a bachelor. The 2009 auction will boast an all-new program, including new games and entertainment.



Admission is free, and all proceeds from the auction will directly benefit Bryan's House, a local nonprofit organization that supports children and teens who are affected by HIV/AIDS.

Posted by kelli Busey
December 18, 2008
planetransgender

Transgender Woman, Jennifer Gale, former Dallas mayoral candidate found dead

Many thanks to Stephanie Stevens at Transgender News at Yahoo Groups for alerting us to the sad news that transgender icon and former Austin and Dallas Mayoral candidate Jennifer Gale was found dead.
One Austin activist who was in tears said although the body has yet to be identified and the cause of death determined, there was belief that the recent cold temperatures may have played a role in Ms. Gales untimely demise.
Ms. Gale who's concern for the homeless was born out of living this life brought reality to a conversation often dominated by the wealthy. Ms. Gale presented facts on what the needs of the homeless are from first hand experience.
Ms. Jennifer was well liked and respected at Dallas City Hall for being a gentle and kind person who brought uniqueness and an unfaltering sense of civic duty to their daily lives.
I did not know you Jennifer, but my friends sadness at your passing grieves me deeply. God Bless you Jennifer Gale.

By kelli Busey kellibusey@yahoo.com
December 17, 2008
planetransgender

Ohio: Columbus City Council Passes Transgender Anti Discrimination Laws

Columbus Ohio. From TransOhio. The Columbus City Council passed transgender anti discrimination on Monday 16, 2008.

TransOhio blog "The Columbus City Council voted 6-0 to PASS the ordinance revisions which will add the following classes to Columbus City Code (chapter 2331): Age, Disability, Sex, Military status, Familial status and Gender Identity and Expression."

The Columbus City Council then went on to ask the State Legislature to follow suit according to 365 Gay.com.

This is indeed a tremendous day in our struggle for equality. Every step forward for transgender people is a leap for all LGBT people.

Being a native of Ohio this warms my heart. Thank you to all that made this happen!

TransOhio may also befriended on Facebook at TransOhio

Binghamton NY City council passes anti-discrimination bill

In a much anticipated event the Binghamton city Council acted to include protection of transgender people. According to an article by Neil St. Clair, News 10 Now

"It's another way to let people know that everyone has the same rights. In the old days, it was color, religion, whatever. Now it's size or sexual orientation. It just reinforces it," said Binghamton City Councilman Edward Collins.

The bill specifically protects transgendered and overweight individuals, along with other groups. It adds another legislative layer with respect to housing, employment and other areas of possible public discrimination.

"This law not only tracks New York State human rights law and the protections already enacted at the state level, it also extends some protections at the local level that have not yet passed at the state level," said Barrie Gewanter, New York Civil Liberties Union Executive Director.

Live in NY? Want to be involved? Click here to become a New York Civil Liberties Union Activist!

By Kelli Busey planetransgender December 16, 2008 email kellibusey@yahoo.com

Jimmy Lee Dean Trial Date Set : Unified Community Against Gay Hate Crimes(UCAGHC) Plans Rally

Unified Community Against Gay Hate Crimes(UCAGHC) a Dallas TX group formed in response to the brutal attack on local artist Jimmy Lee Dean has announced the trial date and asked for the LGBT community to show support by attending a rally from 10am to 12pm on January 12, 2009 in front of the Frank Crowley Bldg 133 N. Industrial Blvd. Dallas TX 75207



According to Activist Michael Robinson, key witness and founder of UCAGHC,
(The) "Jimmy Lee Dean case has the opportunity to change or add new amendments to the statute that governs hate crimes cases in Texas. I am asking the GLBT community to stand up together on this very important issue that concerns us ALL. There is a group of people out there that would like to see us all dead. We need to change how hate crimes cases are filed when they go to a grand jury for review so that the D.A.'s offices can indict these cases."

The current legislation does not enable prosecutors in Texas to clearly identify a hate crime. Aggravated assault convictions carry potentially far less penalty less penalty than a hate crime conviction.

By Kelli Busey
Sunday, December 14, 2008
planetransgender

Why Should I?

"Why Should I?"

This is the response I received from a religious leader after he read my scathing note critiquing his behaviour during a transgender event and an invitation to continue the conversation.

I think it gave him the opportunity to slam the door shut.

Why should you care about the effect your actions are having on the gender variant?

By allowing your religion to lend credence to violence committed against gender variant people you are fueling the unbroken cycle of of violence and condemning us to horrific deaths. By being the leader of a major religion you are amplifying this message in a way that none other could, that we are less than you.

What is your motivation? Not the little voices to be sure. Or could that be why you got so angry? Is that why when I attend church some pastors look at me with such fear?
Look at me with fear! My god man, it's not my physical stature for sure. No it only could be one thing.

The Truth.

The fear is that I exposure our monetarily driven religions and the duplicity it nurtures by it's continuation of profiteering from the brutal transgender murders.

What is HRC's Motivation? Make one or two million dollars a night and hand local churches and 501's their 1 for 5 payoffs. Whats the hurry to change anything?Everyone is fat and happy.

Except you. When I show up. And the dead, and oh yeah, Jesus.

By Kelli Busey
December 13, 2008
planetransgender

Join The Impact Light Up The Night In Dallas December 20

Join the Impact is organizing a nationwide rally to take place on December 20, 2008.



On December 20th, we ask that you join us again for a nation-wide demonstration that will make an impact on the private sector.

National food drives, culminating with candlelight vigils will be held at commercial centers in cities across the country in remembrance of the rights that once were for 18,000 marriages, and in honor of the rights that one day will be again - for EVERYONE

WHAT IS IT?
Dallas - LIGHT UP THE NIGHT FOR EQUALITY
On Saturday, December 20th, JoinTheImpact.com asks that you join them again for a nationwide rally. Candlelight vigils will be held at commercial centers in cities across the country in remembrance of the rights that once were for 18,000 marriages, and in honor of the rights that one day will be again - for everyone.
The Dallas vigil will be held outside the Galleria and want to stress we are not protesting the Galleria. Many locals and tourists will be passing by as they carry on a 26 year tradition of visiting the Galleria during the holidays for their shopping needs. This will be a peaceful candlelight vigil in the spirit of the holidays. No protest signs please.

Please click link for directions Join the Impact

Fish Out of Water

Fish Out of Water - "Every thing you have ever heard about homosexuality and the Bible is going to be turned inside Out!"

Center Stage Chicago theater editor Alicia Eler interviews film maker and director Ky Dickens about her forthcoming revolutionary Ani-Doc film Fish Out of Water.

Fish Out of Water Trailer part 1



Fish Out of Water Trailer part 2


By kelli Busey
Dec. 07, 2008
planetransgender

Colorado Teens Protest Transphobic Schools

Colorado Springs Gazette.com Transgender teen decries hate at schools. A group of 25 Transgender teens and allies gathered to protest unacceptable treatment in Colorado High Schools and Colleges.

According to the protesters the shared experience of transphobia in school can be mainly attributed to a ignorant faculty who's binary conception of gender is reflected and amplified in the student bodies transphobic interactions.

When a person's gender identity is stifled by a unknowledgeable (ignorant) school faculty eventually the condition will become intolerable for the youth and can lead to the loss of that person to society.

When I attended a medical school I was humiliated by my instructors. Despite my best efforts before the semester began to introduce myself and subsequent strenuous objections I was constantly addressed with the wrong gender. I was allowed to use the faculties one stall woman's restroom, but this only increased my isolation and disenfranchisement. While in the halls the whispered degrading comments, laughter and finger pointing became increasingly frequent and blatant as students mimicked teachers unveiled bigotry making me extremely self conscious and eventually fearful for my very safety. Granted I was very early in transition and my appearance was not polished but the feeling of failure after escaping this intolerable situation was nearly unbearable. It was after all, my only life experience to that point.

Since then I have been successful in obtaining a physical appearance and mental state which nicely matches my gender and I am gainfully employed. My life has become meaningful and my passion for living intensely rewarding.

If we value all youth we must honor that obligation. All schools must work to become educated, understanding of, and sensitive to gender variant youth. It is a teachers obligation to afford equal opportunity to all not just the ones that fit effortlessly and conveniently in line with patriarchal preconceptions.

Related article Students protest dorm bigotry and violence

By kelli Busey
Dec 07, 2008
planetransgender

Support LGBT Measures passing in Cleveland

Date: Monday, December 8, 2008
Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Cleveland City Hall
Street: 601 Lakeside Ave.
City/Town: Cleveland, OH

Google Maps

Contact Info Phone: 216-651-5428x12
Email: sdoerfer@lgbtcleveland.org

Please read the Action Alert below. We need as many people as possible to attend both the Finance Committee Hearing and the City Council Meeting on Monday Dec. 8th. Please do everything you can to be there yourself….and forward this to as many people as you can think of.



This is important as it sets a standard for other cities in Ohio! Even if you don't live in Cleveland it impacts YOU! Stand up for the rights of your community!

ACTION ALERT!

Friday Dec.

5th, 2008

The Legislation Committee of Cleveland City Council heard testimony on both the domestic partnership registry and inclusion of gender identity in the city's anti-discrimination law. Both measures passed on to the Finance Committee for hearing.



TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION

Your help is needed to ensure passage of this legislation.

There are several ways you can support this effort:

TODAY (Friday Dec. 5th)

Call your City Council representative (from where you live OR work) and ask them to support the Domestic Partner Registry and the Gender Identity Non-Discrimination Ordinances.

Ask 5 people to do the same thing!

MONDAY(Dec. 8th)

Attend the Finance Committee Hearing 9:45am - 12noon. The Finance Committee will be hearing both ordinances. Both Ordinances need to pass out of the Finance Committee for a vote of the Council.

Ask 5 of your friends to attend with you!

Attend the City Council Meeting 7pm to support the voting, and hopefully to celebrate passage, of these changes to Cleveland City Law. Come early to ensure a seat. Ask 10 of your friends to attend with you.

Cleveland City Hall
Council Chambers
601 Lakeside Avenue
Cleveland, OH

It is crucial that your city council representatives hear from their constituents so they know there is popular support for equality issues. It is important to show strong support through attendance at the Finance Committee Hearing and the City Council Meeting.

For further information or with questions, contact:
Sue Doerfer, sdoerfer@lgbtcleveland.org, 216-651-5428 x12



Sue Doerfer

Gainesville Florida gains in Equality Challenged

By kelli Busey
Dec. 06, 2008
planetransgender

Gainesville Florida a city of vision.

A misleading petition campaign which fostered fear of sexual predators is bringing to vote a proposed amendment whether to allow stand equality afforded presently by this cities laws. The petition campaign gathered the necessary votes by expounding on fear of sexual deviants who would for some reason would suddenly care about societies law and and attack woman in bathrooms now all people in Gainesville are allowed equal rights. This cities determination to protect it's citizenry is being brought to a vote on March 24, 2009.

>snip>

According to Gainesville.com Mayor Pegeen Hanrahan emphasized Thursday that without the city's added protections, it is perfectly legal for a business owner to refuse to serve a gay person or for a landlord to deny housing to a transgender individual.

She said the city has chosen to protect these people from discrimination.

"If you take away your community's right to do that and cede that right to the state, then you defacto say, that, 'OK, we are willing to allow those discriminations.' "

>snip<

The petition sponsor "Citizens for Good Public Policy" who orginally objected to transgender people being included in human rights objected to the wording the Council choose for the proposed admendment which clarified which class of people would loose protection as "Gender Idenity" should the admendment pass.

Glaad: Demand The New York Times Discontinues Anti Gay Advertisement

From the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD.)

In the December 5, 2008 edition of The New York Times, The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty published a full page advertisement that makes inaccurate and unsubstantiated claims about supposed “violence and intimidation” against religious groups by “mobs” since the passage of Proposition 8.

The New York Times needs to hear from you. Contact them TODAY and demand that they discontinue allowing inaccurate claims in their advertising.

By kelli Busey
Dec. 5, 2008
planetransgender

Milk in Utah!

From Equality Utah:

Equality Utah is pleased to announce the December 5th opening of MILK at Salt Lake Film Society’s Broadway Centre Cinemas – 111 East 300 South in Salt Lake City. MILK is based on the life of Harvey Milk.

Gay Rights Activist. Friend. Lover. Unifier. Politician. Fighter. Icon. Inspiration. Hero. Harvey Milk’s life changed history, and his courage changed lives.

In 1977, Harvey Milk was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, becoming the first openly gay man to be voted into major public office in America. His victory was not just a victory for gay rights; he forged coalitions across the political spectrum. From senior citizens to union workers, Harvey Milk changed the very nature of what it means to be a fighter for human rights.

Following each show this weekend and next, Equality Utah volunteers will be in the theater lobby distributing information on our Common Ground Initiative. We are inspired by Harvey Milk and his ability to connect with voters of all persuasions. We hope to follow Harvey's example with this initiative and build a broad network of support. By doing so, we will secure rights for gay and transgender Utahns.

Show times at The Broadway are as follows:

1:00
2:00
4:00
5:00
7:00
8:00
9:40

Please take the time to see this powerful movie, invite your friends and family and prepare to be inspired!

Working for a fair & just Utah,

Mike Thompson
Executive Director

Sign the Common Ground Initiative Petition of Support!

Students Protest Dorm Bigotry and violence while established gay community parties

THE GAZETTE Dec 3, 2008: UCCS Students protest physical and verbal attacks while according to a Dec. 3 Market Place article the Gay & Lesbian Fund for Colorado conragulations self across town on making Colorado a friendly state for LGBT people.

Hundreds of Gay Lesbian and Transgender students University of Colorado, Colorado Springs protested the unsafe conditions on the UCCS campus while in the same city the established Gay community was wearing a hole in there shirts patting themselves on the back for "for Making the State a more Welcoming Place for Everybody"

Concerns that gay, bisexual and transgender students at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs have felt unsafe on campus this semester and have experienced verbal and physical harassment drew hundreds of people to a peaceful rally on campus Wednesday.

Contact the Gay & Lesbian Fund for Colorado and make sure that they are aware that our youth are in peril.

kelli Busey
Dec. 4, 2008
planetransgender

Reversing the religious right's tide of indignities

The tyranny of religion is the ignorance it fosters

"The tyranny of religion is the ignorance it fosters"

The sad truth as we have come to view the "religious right" as a valid source of theology our concept of faith has been skewed to beleive that the perverse view of gods will as the right espouses is in fact what god intended.

The political right wing has used religion as a tool as it wages a war on humanity with no real concern for human dignity and safety. How we can use Obama's election as a opportunity? Found on Alternet 9 Ways to Halt the Right Wing Culture Wars and Bring Sanity to Sexual Policy

By Kelli Busey
Dec. 3, 2008
planetransgender

Duanna Johnson's Death Will Not Stop MPD Lawsuit

The slaughter of Duanna Johnson will not stop Transgender Activists from continuing to press for JUSTICE in Memphis. Be it "police" or "Murdering Thugs" we will find out who murdered Duanna Johnson.

Kelli Busey
Dec. 02, 2008

Duanna Johnson's Death Will Not Stop MPD Lawsuit

The slaughter of Duanna Johnson