The Plot Thickens! - WNevinJ72's Blog - Blogster
My name is Nevin Jefferson,I'm the controversial columnist of "The Saga Continues.." Topics I Write About: HIV/AIDS,Gay issues, Concerns,Groaning and Moaning of the masses,Social,Bigotry, Gay Films,Interviews, Spiritual,Politics,and Things In General. I address these issues in a thought provocative,hard hitting, compelling, encouraging, and inspirational style of my own. My writing style reads like a true creative genius that tells it like it is.
The Saga Continues
Mister Saga
Monday, November 29, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
D Saga Continues: Dirty Politics Part II
D Saga Continues: Dirty Politics Part II: "The Saga Continues... Dirty Politics Part II of A Series. The Dick and George Puppet Show By Nevin Jefferson After 8 Years of being Bush-W..."
Dirty Politics Part II
The Saga Continues...
Dirty Politics Part II of A Series.
The Dick and George Puppet Show
By Nevin Jefferson
After 8 Years of being Bush-Whacked by the Bush/Cheney Disaster, You the American Pubic finally get pissed off then piss on the wrong Political Party! Okay,let's look back at everything that you turned a blind eye to. The time to get pissed was when the Supreme Court stopped a legal recount and appointed a President. Clarence Thomas, of all people showed his true to the core Uncle TOM-NESS with his quick decision to pull off this “Vote Fraud" farce that began the screw of the nation part I of 8 years. Did you notice that no White Supreme Court Judge was near this Dirty Political ploy that killed people. This was the beginning of the new Hitler who took away the majority of the Help Agencies and Assistance to those in need for their lively hood, health, and money. He took away the sole income of families, disabled, elderly,and retired.
The time to get pissed was when Cheney allowed Energy company officials to dictate Energy policy and push us to invade Iraq. Along with Follow the Idiot! That became the nation’s greatest game to play while being played. “Countries that went out to play with Dick and George were;Albania, Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Poland, Romania, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. Countries that refused to join The Multinational Forces were called supporters of Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction. Countries that refused to join called The Burning Bush “The New Adolph Hilter” with the rest of the World hating; the United States with a passion. It wasn't pretty overseas for our troop who stopped off in different countries being welcome with protest signs.
The time to get pissed was when a covert CIA operative got ousted with both of her cover and career was destroyed. CIA operative Valerie Plame was the spy left out in the cold and snowed by her own Government. Valerie Plame said that Karl Rove was “clearly involved” in the leak, and she called President Bush out for protecting Rove despite Bush’s pledge that he would “immediately dismiss anyone who had anything to do with this.” She calmly and eloquently critiqued the “creeping, insidious politicizing” of American intelligence and warned that this trend would prove to be disastrous for the nation. Not one eyebrow was raised over this back stabbing, two-faced, cruelty from a United States President.
The time to get pissed was when the Patriot Act got passed. The Act dramatically reduced restrictions on law enforcement agencies' ability to search telephone, e-mail communications, medical, financial, and other records; eased restrictions on foreign intelligence gathering within the United States; expanded the Secretary of the Treasury’s authority to regulate financial transactions, particularly those involving foreign individuals and entities; and broadened the discretion of law enforcement and immigration authorities in detaining and deporting immigrants suspected of terrorism-related acts. The act also expanded the definition of terrorism to include domestic terrorism, thus enlarging the number of activities to which the USA PATRIOT Act’s expanded law enforcement powers could be applied. Unfortunately, the Supreme Court delivered a mixed verdict relative to this case 03-6696 Hamdi v. Rumsfeld in that it was ruled that the U.S. government has the power to hold American citizens and foreign nationals without charges or trial, but that detainees can challenge their treatment in U.S. courts.
The time to get pissed was when we illegally invaded a country that posed no threat to us. The Mass Weapons of Destruction were the Oil Drills that belonged to Halliburton Inc. A Fortune 500 company that Dick Cheney was and still is Chief Executive Officer. Under the new leadership of the new Adolph Hitler our great nation was bombed as a ploy to start a war in Iraq. A senseless war with people dying and the torturing of Human beings became a sport.
The time to get pissed was Bush and Cheney spent over 800 billion and counting on said illegal war. If you read Section 3, paragraph B, Bush was required to prove to the Congress that Iraq was in violation of UN Resolutions by still being in possession of weapons of mass destruction, and secondly, that Iraq was behind 9-11. Both claims have since been disproved and discredited, and appear to be created by the Pentagon Office at the heart of the latest Israeli spy scandal. Under United States law, the war in Iraq was illegal. And We the People are not under any legal or moral obligation to pay for it, let alone let our kids be killed in it.
The time to get pissed was over 12 billion dollars in cash just disappeared in Iraq. This was the best magical trick ever with 12 billion disappearing into thin air then reappearing in Swiss Bank Accounts and Off Shore Banks. The former U.S. civilian overlord of Iraq, Ambassador L. Paul Bremer, performed this magic of making 363 TONS of newly printed, shrink-wrapped $100 bills disappear. That's $12 billion in cold, hard American cash! Instead of using mirrors, crooked and incompetent contractors, greedy defense corporations and Iraqi crooks in a government were his props of choice.
The time to get pissed was Bush embraced trade and outsourcing policies that shipped 6 million American jobs out of the country. Companies were given tax breaks for outsourcing jobs to India and other countries for slave wages. This is where the art of communication went to hell without a hand basket. The Folks in India were Rude and Arrogant with an attitude of heirs and had millions of American enraged. There were no jobs here in the USA and Unemployment was at an ALL Time HIGH! This was the worst 8 years of job creations in several decades.
The time to get pissed was when Bush allowed his Corporate Boys Companies to downsize and eliminated positions for a tax break and to help raise profits on their stocks. People lost their pensions and were screwed out of there severance pay. Unemployment benefits were taxed and became an income. The same held true for Social Security and Disability benefits. To make matters worse extensions were no more and the length of time of Unemployment was cut shorter. People lost their sole income with Foreclosures happening left and right. Food Banks went broke from the number of people needing help and no donations in sight. Energy Assistance Programs weren’t able to assist people after Bush slashed this and other social services down to the bone. There was with no help what so ever with to assist millions of people in need. We the people suffered the consequences of doing without. The lack of oversight and regulations from the Bush Administration caused US Citizens to lose 12 trillion dollars in investments, retirement, and home values. Tax Breaks were lavished on the rich who got richer than rich. Nobody said not one word or any vocal feedback at all!
The time to get pissed was after Katrina destroyed New Orleans the victims went without help for 3 DAYS…count them 1-2-3 days! Fox news was there and the rest of the Media got pissed off with Fox news for their coverage of this story that showed that our great nation was uncaring and racist. Bush stood still and silent as bodies floated down the river once he finally arrived in Louisiana. He didn’t flinch once and showed no emotion what so ever. This when the Black Community were convinced that the man was on CRACK! The Black Community got completely pissed and foaming at the mouth after Barbara Bush made the comment that; “People were better off living in the Astros Dome and they should be left there. White America said nothing after giving this all of the airtime it could possibility get. This was when the Black Community decided that the woman had dementia from smoking CRACK with her son.
The time to get pissed was when over 200,000 US Citizens lost their lives because they had no health insurance. Bush created a federal budget that cut Medicare to fund billions for that illegal war of his. Bush made it illegal to sue your HMO and gave Insurance Companies free reign to hurt “We” the “People” than help and cure them. The expensive drugs that people needed to stay alive were denied and placing this burden onto to their Insured. The majority of “We” the “People” was and still is on a fixed income and had no money for this. Ridiculous High co-pays were charged once again screwing the person out of their medications needed to stay better and well. Donut Hole Periods was and still is when you lost your insurance coverage for long periods of time randomly. The Department of Welfare stopped giving out medical coupons and put people into a spend down period which meant no Medications for the Terminally Ill who needed their medications to stay alive and well... Medicare was cut to the bone with people losing their Healthcare from their Government. My health took plunge when I lost my Healthcare after falling into the Donut Hole. I went from having an undetectable viral load (which meant that there’s not a trace of the virus in your body) and High CD4 Cell Counts. To a viral load in the millions with a CD4 Cell count of 50. I also started suffering from the Opportunist Infections-Nausea, Fatigue, and Diarrhea. I also have chronic Depression and hyper-active which had me a nervous wreck without my Anti-Depressions. The count almost went to 200,001 US Citizens who died who had no Health Insurance. With that one being me!
Bush borrowed more money from foreign sources than the previous 42 Presidents combined. Add this to illegal wars, (we didn't catch Bin Laden), lies, corruption, the horrible conditions at Walter Reed, illegally wiretapping, torture, job losses by the millions, and stealing your tax dollars. All to make the rich richer and creating the worst economic disaster since 1929. All of these low down ploys were okay with you, the reality of not helping fellow Americans in need. The People, who were sick, got sicker, sickest then died is perfectly fine with you.
The unconcerned American Public finally got pissed beyond believe when a Black man was elected President and decided that people in America deserved the right to see a doctor if they are sick. In present day people should have got pissed when The Republican Party voted to stop emergency extensions for Unemployment. This meant that 2 ½ million people would have been without any financial assistance. They denied their State Stimulus Money for Mortgage Assistance. People got pissed when President Obama overturned their decision. And what does the a big part of Americans do vote the Poison Tea Party and the Racist Republican and their followers into Office and giving control to them. People didn’t get pissed while being pissed on. And they’re still enjoying the golden showers from the Corrupt Racist Republicans and the Corporations that rule them.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
Friday, October 8, 2010
Friday, September 10, 2010
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
Dirty Politics!
The Saga Continues....
A Saga Series:Part I
Dirty Politics-The Dick and George Puppet Show!
By Nevin Jefferson
This is a Saga Series about the Bush Administration that was like Holocaust complete with a new Adolph Hitler who took away a majority of the Help Agencies and Assistance to those in need for their lively hood,health,and money. He took away the sole income of families, disabled, elderly,and retired. What does one do when your only source of income is taken away from with nowhere to go for help? Where does one go for food after a great number are closed or run out food for a week or longer? What does one do when they can't get the medications that they need to combat the terminal illness that they have? Necessaries of our well being were taken away by the Rich who wanted to rid the World of the poor,sick,and needy. This series is told through the eyes of a Black Gay Man who's HIV+.
With the help of the Corrupt and rotten to the core Corporate America and Dick Cheney conspired to get his “Puppet” George “Dimwit” Bush into office twice by way of Voter Fraud and a strangle hold on the Electoral College. Up to that point,my mindset on voting was that “We” the American “People” casted the winning vote with our ballots that decided who would get to live in the White House. That and that the Electoral College was used only if the race was neck and neck between the candidates or a tie. Overall “We” the People found out that our votes didn't count nor did they matter. Say what chumps? So throughout the years of voting for a “New” President that yours and my votes never came into the total tally of votes and weren't the deciding factors in who “Wins.” This was the first of many mind screws and lousy screws without a kiss that were slammed repeatedly into us from the Puppet Master of The White House. Dick's Dumber than Dumb Dummy was George the “Burning Bush” a county bumpkin with the stupidity of a dimwit from the land of Dumb Acres . Dick's DUMMY character made Mortimer Snerd,a buck-toothed country bumpkin of Edgar Bergen's dummy character look intelligent with a High IQ. Stupid is what Stupid does and boy did George ever with the lines from Dick's lack of mind laced with greed and pending doom for “We The People of Screwed!!
Under the destruction of the Bushwhacked Administration our great nation went to hell without the hand basket. At the end of his term Dick and George left a national Debt stood at $10.626 trillion It increased $4.9 trillion during Pres. Bush's 8-years in office. This Debt pin-pointed the policies of President George W. Bushwhack. By the time President Obama took office, he had a one-year deficit of over $1 trillion and projected deficits of $8 trillion over the next decade. Most of this was the result of not paying for two major tax cuts skewed to the wealthy, and a worthy but expensive prescription drug program that wasn't paid for. President Obama took over the Oval Office amid a crisis, and the effects of the recession that put a $3 trillion hole in his budget before he even walked through the door. The National Debt has so far increased $2.4 trillion. When you put $13 trillion in perspective and wonder what one could buy with this money: It would buy 16,270,337,922 top-of-the-line IPads, 34,210,526 Rolls Royce Phantoms, or 83 Googles at its current stock price.
Their first act of the Dick and George opened with Bushwhacked going overseas where he defied the U.N and formed The Multinational Forces. The “Follow The Idiot!”Countries are;Albania, Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Poland, Romania, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. Countries that refused to join The Multinational Forces were called supporters of Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction. Countries that refused to join called The Burning Bush “The New Adolph Hilter” with the rest of the World hating; the United States with a passion. It wasn't pretty overseas for our troop who stopped off in different countries being welcome with protest signs.
The Mass Weapons of Destruction were the Oil Drills that belonged to Halliburton Inc. A Fortune 500 company that Dick Cheney was and still is Chief Executive Officer. Under the new leadership of the new Adolph Hitler our great nation was bombed as a ploy to start a war in Iraq. 2,976 people were killed in the 9/11 attack and 6,000+ were injured. Numerous people got sick afterwards from the elements in the air. Halliburton Inc. had a contract to rebuild Iraq's oil lines that was canceled which was why a War was called against Iraq. Halliburton Inc. still managed to rack up on the oil in Iraq as well as the other Countries that joined forces with The Corporation States of America. Turn about was fair play when the oil wells were set on fire which caused many CEO's to cry as their profits went up in smoke.
The press was tipped off about 9/11 being reported to Bush by the C.I.A. on 9/09. Bush ignored this report and other warnings from reliable sources. MSNBC reported that the Afghanistan War was planned before the 9/11 Attacks. The war plans for Afghanistan were on Bushwhacked desk on 9/09.Two Asian countries were going to combat the Taliban from the front. After being informed about 9/11 Bush showed no compassion or concern and went back to reading a book about the adventures of a Goose to a full classroom of colored children in the 4th grade who were 8 years old.
“Was their public outrage about Bush doing nothing to stop the attack on 9/11?”
“No!”
“Were charges bought against the man who was responsible for 2,976 deaths and 6,000+ injured?”
“No!”
“Was their a call to impeach?”
“No!”
“Why?”
Because,this nation is owned by Corporations including the News Media of both Print and Network Broadcasting. The 9/11 conspiracy theory was planted into the minds of Mr. And Mrs. America and everyone else with the lie of a Terrorists attack. “We The People” had their brains washed with this utter nonsense with all spins of sensation by Press and Newscast Media that had the America people living in fear. The other reason that Dick and George got away with this is because they're WHITE!
The Saga Continues....
A Saga Series:Part I
Dirty Politics-The Dick and George Puppet Show!
By Nevin Jefferson
This is a Saga Series about the Bush Administration that was like Holocaust complete with a new Adolph Hitler who took away a majority of the Help Agencies and Assistance to those in need for their lively hood,health,and money. He took away the sole income of families, disabled, elderly,and retired. What does one do when your only source of income is taken away from with nowhere to go for help? Where does one go for food after a great number are closed or run out food for a week or longer? What does one do when they can't get the medications that they need to combat the terminal illness that they have? Necessaries of our well being were taken away by the Rich who wanted to rid the World of the poor,sick,and needy. This series is told through the eyes of a Black Gay Man who's HIV+.
With the help of the Corrupt and rotten to the core Corporate America and Dick Cheney conspired to get his “Puppet” George “Dimwit” Bush into office twice by way of Voter Fraud and a strangle hold on the Electoral College. Up to that point,my mindset on voting was that “We” the American “People” casted the winning vote with our ballots that decided who would get to live in the White House. That and that the Electoral College was used only if the race was neck and neck between the candidates or a tie. Overall “We” the People found out that our votes didn't count nor did they matter. Say what chumps? So throughout the years of voting for a “New” President that yours and my votes never came into the total tally of votes and weren't the deciding factors in who “Wins.” This was the first of many mind screws and lousy screws without a kiss that were slammed repeatedly into us from the Puppet Master of The White House. Dick's Dumber than Dumb Dummy was George the “Burning Bush” a county bumpkin with the stupidity of a dimwit from the land of Dumb Acres . Dick's DUMMY character made Mortimer Snerd,a buck-toothed country bumpkin of Edgar Bergen's dummy character look intelligent with a High IQ. Stupid is what Stupid does and boy did George ever with the lines from Dick's lack of mind laced with greed and pending doom for “We The People of Screwed!!
Under the destruction of the Bushwhacked Administration our great nation went to hell without the hand basket. At the end of his term Dick and George left a national Debt stood at $10.626 trillion It increased $4.9 trillion during Pres. Bush's 8-years in office. This Debt pin-pointed the policies of President George W. Bushwhack. By the time President Obama took office, he had a one-year deficit of over $1 trillion and projected deficits of $8 trillion over the next decade. Most of this was the result of not paying for two major tax cuts skewed to the wealthy, and a worthy but expensive prescription drug program that wasn't paid for. President Obama took over the Oval Office amid a crisis, and the effects of the recession that put a $3 trillion hole in his budget before he even walked through the door. The National Debt has so far increased $2.4 trillion. When you put $13 trillion in perspective and wonder what one could buy with this money: It would buy 16,270,337,922 top-of-the-line IPads, 34,210,526 Rolls Royce Phantoms, or 83 Googles at its current stock price.
Their first act of the Dick and George opened with Bushwhacked going overseas where he defied the U.N and formed The Multinational Forces. The “Follow The Idiot!”Countries are;Albania, Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Poland, Romania, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. Countries that refused to join The Multinational Forces were called supporters of Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction. Countries that refused to join called The Burning Bush “The New Adolph Hilter” with the rest of the World hating; the United States with a passion. It wasn't pretty overseas for our troop who stopped off in different countries being welcome with protest signs.
The Mass Weapons of Destruction were the Oil Drills that belonged to Halliburton Inc. A Fortune 500 company that Dick Cheney was and still is Chief Executive Officer. Under the new leadership of the new Adolph Hitler our great nation was bombed as a ploy to start a war in Iraq. 2,976 people were killed in the 9/11 attack and 6,000+ were injured. Numerous people got sick afterwards from the elements in the air. Halliburton Inc. had a contract to rebuild Iraq's oil lines that was canceled which was why a War was called against Iraq. Halliburton Inc. still managed to rack up on the oil in Iraq as well as the other Countries that joined forces with The Corporation States of America. Turn about was fair play when the oil wells were set on fire which caused many CEO's to cry as their profits went up in smoke.
The press was tipped off about 9/11 being reported to Bush by the C.I.A. on 9/09. Bush ignored this report and other warnings from reliable sources. MSNBC reported that the Afghanistan War was planned before the 9/11 Attacks. The war plans for Afghanistan were on Bushwhacked desk on 9/09.Two Asian countries were going to combat the Taliban from the front. After being informed about 9/11 Bush showed no compassion or concern and went back to reading a book about the adventures of a Goose to a full classroom of colored children in the 4th grade who were 8 years old.
“Was their public outrage about Bush doing nothing to stop the attack on 9/11?”
“No!”
“Were charges bought against the man who was responsible for 2,976 deaths and 6,000+ injured?”
“No!”
“Was their a call to impeach?”
“No!”
“Why?”
Because,this nation is owned by Corporations including the News Media of both Print and Network Broadcasting. The 9/11 conspiracy theory was planted into the minds of Mr. And Mrs. America and everyone else with the lie of a Terrorists attack. “We The People” had their brains washed with this utter nonsense with all spins of sensation by Press and Newscast Media that had the America people living in fear. The other reason that Dick and George got away with this is because they're WHITE!
The Saga Continues....
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Creatures from the Pink Lagoon
The Saga Continues...
The Seattle Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
By Nevin Jefferson
Creatures from the Pink Lagoon
Starring: Nick Garrison, Lowell Deo, Evan Mosher, Philip D. Clark, Vincent Kovar Billy,
John Kaufmann, Bill Morrison, and Bobby Jerry Lloyd
Directed by Chis Diani
Written by Chris Diani & Basil Harris
Hurray for HOLLYQUEER! Creatures from the Pink Lagoon is the ultimate in Gay films that takes you back in time to the days of the Sunday matinee Black and white horror movies after Sunday school.Seattle provides the backdrop for the campy Creatures from the Pink Lagoon. Creature from the Pink Lagoon opens with a funeral scene that ends with a hand coming up out of the grave. The hand goes limp at the wrist with this being the first of many scenes of Gay humor at its Queerest.
It is 1967 in a small town where cruisers of the highway rest stop are bitten by toxic mosquitoes and turn into ravenous flesh-eating zombies. Phillip (Hedwig, Nick Garrison) is the blonde bubble-head heroine of the movie whose boyfriend leaves him stranded at a rest stop. If this isn't enough, his boyfriend refuses the invitation to Phillip's birthday party. After playing a game of drop the lighter with the person picking it up giving a blowjob. Phillip's boyfriend is bit on the neck by a large toxic mosquito.
Phillip and his friends meet at Stan's, Phillip's best friend (Lowell Deo) beach cottage for birthday cheer and frolic. Billy, Stan's beefcake boyfriend (Vincent Kovar), Joseph, (Evan Mosher) Billy's shy, nerdy, cousin, and Randall, (Philip D. Clarke) the smoking, fussing, bitching, bitter, Queen who's the splitting acting image of the late Paul Lynne.
Like most of the horror movies nothing bad happens until someone has sex. Phillip and Billy go for a swim at the beach with Phillip getting birthday strokes and humps from fine body Billy. Body parts wash up on shore as party guests begin to disappear. Zombies make their way towards the beach house eating their way there as they stop to snack, feast, and chow down on the men along the way. They're horrifying! They're hideous! They're hungry! And they're homosexual?
There's water zombies, surfer zombie, ascot zombie, cake zombie, arm-biting zombie, coatless zombie, well-dressed zombie, smoking zombie, bearded zombie, bald zombie, science teacher zombie, aggressive zombie, and last and Gay-camp least, dildo zombie. Billy becomes a glutless blunder while Randall gets eaten for desert while smoking and bitching away. While under attack the gang hears the news bulletin from a radio announcer who gives the attack of the zombies a full scientific explanation of it being from the toxic lagoon with mosquitoes spreading it around the rest. This leads up to the scene where the victims find something to stop the zombies like in all of the other B horror flicks. This time its Brute 33 to the rescue. Phillip, Joseph, and Stan fight off the zombies with Brute 33 which makes the zombies hurl chunks and foams.
Love blooms between Phillip and Joseph as they combat zombies side-by-side. Stan's does his best to keep the rotting corpses out of his spotless home. Phillip's cheating boyfriend makes his way to the party to eat...not save them. Stan saves the day and changes the hungry zombies back into hungry horny men by playing a Judy Garland song with the radio hoisted high over his head. Once the terror and fighting for their lives are over, Phillip goes back to his no-good dog of a boyfriend. The nerd is left behind fading off into his pencil holder. Stan rides off into the sunset a convertible with Billy's dumb-bells on the seat next to him. The Pink End!
Creatures was filmed in Steward Park and on the beach. Seattle makes a great background for movies shot here. This is the second film at the Seattle Gay Lesbian Film Festival that was filmed in Seattle. Boy Culture and Creatures from the Pink Lagoon gave the film festival a touch of home with the Space Needle being our beacon of Seattle.
The Dead Vampires among the un-dead at Studio 7
The Saga Continues...
The Dead Vampires among the un-dead at Studio 7
By Nevin Jefferson A&E Writer
The stage was setup as a graveyard, complete with tombstones, skulls with flashing eye sockets and smoke, mummy's body, torso of a man, and red blood drop lettering that lit up to read "The Dead Vampires". The Dead Vampires are a monster of an act who celebrates Halloween everyday of the year -- dressed in complete costume for their performances. They perform a spooky collection of macabre music that's upbeat and highly energized.
On Halloween night, The Dead Vampires were decomposed of: Frankenstein on guitar, Mad Scientist Chainsaw on the remin, Spankula The Count on drums, Hellvis Docula belting out the vocals, Blonde Ghoul on keyboard, and Art/Photos/Videos by Jewelie Ghoulie.
Their hyper-performance was laced with zest, zeal, and was a musical memorial for the grateful un-dead jamming together in the audience. A mystery lady took to the floor with two bright blue balls that she spun in sync with the music. Screaming Jay Hawkins, dressed in a loud bright orange stripped cape, gray suit, purple shirt, and black and purple Stacy Adams took to the stage and danced to Blood Poisoning while putting a spell on the audience.
Before departing back to the other side, Screaming Jay presented Hellvis with a voodoo doll. This frightful band is an empowering force of superb talent that's makes you move more than the music on 92.5 FM and is soul stirring. They're entertaining to the max while lifting you into high spirits with a wonderful feeling afterwards. This is one band that you don't want to miss!
This act, first performed at the Funhouse on January 8, 2004, and have been dying strong ever since. Check them out at www.DeadVampires.com.
November 17,2006
Part II: The LOST Pride Saga!
The Saga Continues...
Part II: The LOST Pride Saga!
By Nevin Jefferson
I nearly gagged when the Christian movement was used as ammunition against us. Let's try biggest joke! Amusing in itself, since it's a scene from the comedy of errors that I'm starring at. I feel sorry for them for not having enough sense or courage or the willingness to do the required research, prayer, soul searching, and desire to find the truth in the text they so frequently beat upon us. What flabbergasts me is that most people are either too lazy, frightened, or stupid to do the work required to learn the truth and instead will willing swallow whatever swill is dished out to them.
They don't scare, frighten, or pose any threat to me with their Biblical sayings that crown them Miss Quotations. And why is this dear readers? Because I invested the energy to find out the truth and it set me free! Amen to this Brothers and Sisters! That's how people like Hitler, Saddam, Mussolini, Amin, and everyone else like them rise to power. Because they're too lazy to learn for themselves. To invest the effort is really worth your peace of mind. Because even a small kennel of self-doubt is a cancer. To set these fools straight, Mary was called a virgin in the Old Testament; a virgin was an unmarried woman. Joseph was within his rights as a betrothed man to have Mary "put away" if she became pregnant prior to their wedding. But Joseph - being a "just" man - married her. If Christ wasn't his child, why did Joseph marry her?
The best description of the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth. What is the truth filled way a woman gets pregnant? And, finally, to stop these twits from beating a dead horse that's farther than the truth, the actual translation of Leviticus Chapter 18 Verse 22 reads: "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind; it is an abomination." So what is really being said her gang is that it's the woman's bed. Don't use it! Its part of her things so don't do the nasty in her bed. If she wants to do the nasty in her bed it's okay because it's her bed. Nuff said, okay?
My pain medication wore off at the same time that the young Lesbian who I was dancing with when her halter-top popped right in the middle of Broadway - in the core of the Parade. I reached around her and tied it in a knot for her. We bogeyed on down the street; saved from being topless which would have made her perfect company with her Sisters who were equally or far greater topless. My bogey turned into a hobble but did I give up? No! My public awaited me. Of course, my public didn't recognize me when my name was announced from the commentator's booth. Where's Nevin? He's right before you praying for a pain killer.
My date was kind enough to hold me up while I put in an appearance at the rally. It was at this time that my date asked me to stop introducing him as my date. People who I hadn't seen in years were shocked to see me because they thought that I had expired from AIDS related symptoms. No such luck! I'm still here, Queer, in pain, so get used to it. If I die in bed, it's going to be one big dramatic scene that'll win me an Oscar in heaven. I made it a point to greet every Black person in passing, then, introduce myself because Blacks complain that they don't feel welcomed in the Gay community. I did my Christian, Gay, duty to make them feel like they were welcome and a big part of the family. Everyone has to start somewhere, so why not let it start with me? I spoke to everyone else greeting him or her with Pride tidings. Some received me very well and returned the sentiments. Others went into shock and were glad that someone actually walked up to them and greeted them with love. The rest quickly got over it, leaving with my great words of wisdom that moved my date to tears. Yes, gang! The writing was on the wall, it was time to wrap things up. The man had suffered enough. I'll confess to this sin next Saturday at Confession. Then light a candle for the nice man. It's the least that I can do.
I talked to the loyal campaigners for Tom Rasmussen. Change comes from within the establishment, so vote for the man! Vote in the upcoming election or forever hold your bitch. I was bestowed with Pride beads by James Mulvan of R Place who was boasting interest for Gay Softball. For those of you who are into balls R Place Softball is just the social outing that you need to put some sporting season in your life. Contact James Mulvan via James10765@yahoo.com for more details. Be polite and don't email the man asking about the size of his dick! He's trying to make a difference in the community, so give the man help and your participation. It's the least that we can all do to get involved. If softballs are your thing and you love playing with bigger balls, Century 21, Seawest, and Pride Leagues are back in action at West Seattle Bowl. Contact West Seattle Bowl for more information, which they'll gladly roll your way. For those of you who don't want to commit to a league, they have a Sunday social. I'll be bowling in the Seawest League with Rick who promised to put me on a team. He's looking forward to bowling with me and welcomed me with open arms. In the event that I run him away during the season, I used to be League secretary for The Lincoln Park Lagooners in Chicago. Hey, it'll work miracles for me and the league!
Check out the Disco experience at Experience Music Project. If you didn't throw away the sticker that was passed out, there's a $5.00 off the admission. This was the point in the Parade when people wanted another one. This was the part of the parade where I told them "NO!" One per customer - unless you were cute and wanted to take me. I also passed out tattoos for this affair offering to put it on the body part of my choice to the cute guys who I made the offer to. I did three tits, 16 Asses, and promised to put it on an even more private part later. I talked to the folks of Seattle Gay Couples. I'm not a couple but I'll mention them anyway because I believe in what they're doing. I thanked all of Seattle's finest - our hot men in uniform for their help and support. They have a job to do and they did it. For this, I salute them as ask that the Gay cops contact me for an exclusive interview. Since my dates are borderline on cruel and unusual treatment, it's high time that I get arrested by the "Date Police." I found it quite ironic when someone gave me a brochure for Safeco auto insurance. At first I thought that it was a sick and twisted joke of the comedy of errors gearing up for the grand finale.
Later that night, I got a credit application from a car dealer, which I filled out and emailed it back. He called again which was when I explained the circumstances and told him that I had just read a "dear dumped letter" from my date and not to mess with my head. He told me that he'd pick me up in the morning and drive me to Kirkland to the KIA dealer and I could drive home in a new car from there. At first I thought that it was my date trying to get even with me for taking him on a tour of hell! Guess what gang? I have a new vehicle! God is good to me! I lost the man and got a car! Fair exchange if you ask me. All and all Pride Day was a very positive experience for me, which made me free good inside. I loved every minute of it.
The scene ended with my camera refusing to do what it was purchased for. It took the pictures but died during the download of all of the Pride pictures that I took for this article. The curtains close as I scream! As for my date - who put out a restraining order on me after posting my picture on the Internet with a warning to other studs not to date me - avoid it at all cost for your sanity's sake. I'm quite sure that Mark Finley would love to have a word with him. Mark, when you're done sharpening your claws, see our forever hot editor for the everything you need to know about finding him to read his beads and snatch him bald! As for me, I'm going to keep the positive feeling alive and moving within me. Yes, I love being who I am! I love my life!
2006
Part I:The LOST Pride Saga!
The Saga Continues...
Part I:The LOST Pride Saga!
By Nevin Jefferson
The only thing that can keep me away from the Pride Parade is illness or death. When I was in failing health, I went 4 years without a Pride refill. Prior to this, I had participated in the past 5 parades with pride. This year, the Saturday before Pride week (June 22, 2002) I had the misfortune of meeting some thrill seeking sadistic motorist cutting me off, slamming on the brakes, then, flipping me off. I had the hand of God shielding me while bouncing off cement barriers on the left side of 405 South. Bouncing off a pickup truck, and coming to a halt by hitting the cement barrier on the right of the highway. I was banged, bruised, and swollen while getting gassed by the air bag that had hit me in the chest and knee. All and all, it was a reality roller coaster ride combined with the feeling of being inside of a pinball machine.
Yours truly had said his prayers and prepared to meet his maker. However, a small voice inside me said: "You didn't die from AIDS and you're not dying in a car accident. You have next week's Saga to do and four A.D.P.A.'s to do for Gaypride.com. Your novel isn't done! And you have too many people depending on you." I replied: "Father I thank you!"
I didn't look good mingled with broken glass and car parts, so I refused to exit the earth this way. It's been done before and I plan to go out in flames with a big explosion following it. The body took a beating but the tiara stayed in place - along with my hair. I was spared to make my comeback appearance in this year's Pride festivities and I welcomed it with open arms. I took a front row seat with my popcorn and waited patiently to be entertained by life's comedy of errors. With my lumbar area out of commission and voicing its pain, I was banged, bruised, swollen, and car-less. I needed a chariot for the 'Fairy Ball.'
Act One, Scene Whatever: A brave person answered my personal ad and was dying to meet me. I'm a lot of person to deal with and I overwhelm men and scare them away. So, I put a suitor to the test by arranging a date that's day filled into evening so I can let him embrace me full-scale blast. If he can spend a day with me and not run off screaming, the man passed the test. At the same time, I want to meet someone who shares my interests and partakes in the things that I do. He agreed to do exactly this and couldn't wait to meet me. I prayed for him because, when dealing with me, a person needs all of the help that they can get and then some.
Of course, my date got lost and I got a call from work about a problem that only I know how to resolve. If it wasn't my sexy, happening, female friend on the other end of the line I would have played dumb. We were late to the parade and missed the cars carrying the Seattle Gay News staff and friends. Always being someone with a backup plan, I asked for the Lifelong Aids Alliance lineup. They were long gone too! I saw Mark Finley and asked the dear Queen if I could ride with her? It was Ma Finley to the rescue and I thank her for getting me in with KJR FM and the Disco Experience. The plan was to dance down the street, pass out parade goodies, and have a good time. My back was out and I was holding up due in large part to the pain medication and muscle relaxer I had been prescribed. Walking wasn't something that I should be doing, especially in a parade. Which is why I wanted to ride in the car with dear old Ma.
My shy, quiet, introverted date made the remark that somebody should teach Mark Finley how to put on lipstick. She needs to use her good eye while doing this beauty task, he said. And this is from the man who found me too extroverted for our personalities to match. He also doesn't dance! I told him to just stand there while I made the two of us look good. It was at this point when my date became sick to his stomach! Heidi was in charge of this entry, which consisted of a truck playing Disco music. She gave me thumbs up later during the parade as I bogeyed down!
Before things got started, I was greeted by members of the religious-wrong talking out of their asses. It was at this time that my date asked a member the Parade Patrol if it would be okay if he flipped them off? The nice Parade Patrol person advised my date not to confront them. Seattle's finest was also on the case and asked us not to provoke anything. He looked at me and pleaded with me not to do anything. My reputation still precedes me!
Always the class act, I faced the bozos. Then, I showed them the front of my T-shirt. Which read; "T.G.I.F" with a crown of thorns resting on the letters and words "THANK GOD I'M FORGIVEN!" written underneath it. John 1:10 brought the message alive while bringing out its true meaning. The brainwashed twits repeated hatred before someone else told them shut up. The crowd applauded and I made my way into the parade.
Later, on the news, it was reported that the newest threat to Gays was the Christian movement. I made the news - T-shirt and all - with my church family calling me to tell me that they saw my date and me on the news. Later on, my date freaked when he found out about this and politely dumped me. Oh well, at least he fed me!
Part I:The LOST Pride Saga!
By Nevin Jefferson
The only thing that can keep me away from the Pride Parade is illness or death. When I was in failing health, I went 4 years without a Pride refill. Prior to this, I had participated in the past 5 parades with pride. This year, the Saturday before Pride week (June 22, 2002) I had the misfortune of meeting some thrill seeking sadistic motorist cutting me off, slamming on the brakes, then, flipping me off. I had the hand of God shielding me while bouncing off cement barriers on the left side of 405 South. Bouncing off a pickup truck, and coming to a halt by hitting the cement barrier on the right of the highway. I was banged, bruised, and swollen while getting gassed by the air bag that had hit me in the chest and knee. All and all, it was a reality roller coaster ride combined with the feeling of being inside of a pinball machine.
Yours truly had said his prayers and prepared to meet his maker. However, a small voice inside me said: "You didn't die from AIDS and you're not dying in a car accident. You have next week's Saga to do and four A.D.P.A.'s to do for Gaypride.com. Your novel isn't done! And you have too many people depending on you." I replied: "Father I thank you!"
I didn't look good mingled with broken glass and car parts, so I refused to exit the earth this way. It's been done before and I plan to go out in flames with a big explosion following it. The body took a beating but the tiara stayed in place - along with my hair. I was spared to make my comeback appearance in this year's Pride festivities and I welcomed it with open arms. I took a front row seat with my popcorn and waited patiently to be entertained by life's comedy of errors. With my lumbar area out of commission and voicing its pain, I was banged, bruised, swollen, and car-less. I needed a chariot for the 'Fairy Ball.'
Act One, Scene Whatever: A brave person answered my personal ad and was dying to meet me. I'm a lot of person to deal with and I overwhelm men and scare them away. So, I put a suitor to the test by arranging a date that's day filled into evening so I can let him embrace me full-scale blast. If he can spend a day with me and not run off screaming, the man passed the test. At the same time, I want to meet someone who shares my interests and partakes in the things that I do. He agreed to do exactly this and couldn't wait to meet me. I prayed for him because, when dealing with me, a person needs all of the help that they can get and then some.
Of course, my date got lost and I got a call from work about a problem that only I know how to resolve. If it wasn't my sexy, happening, female friend on the other end of the line I would have played dumb. We were late to the parade and missed the cars carrying the Seattle Gay News staff and friends. Always being someone with a backup plan, I asked for the Lifelong Aids Alliance lineup. They were long gone too! I saw Mark Finley and asked the dear Queen if I could ride with her? It was Ma Finley to the rescue and I thank her for getting me in with KJR FM and the Disco Experience. The plan was to dance down the street, pass out parade goodies, and have a good time. My back was out and I was holding up due in large part to the pain medication and muscle relaxer I had been prescribed. Walking wasn't something that I should be doing, especially in a parade. Which is why I wanted to ride in the car with dear old Ma.
My shy, quiet, introverted date made the remark that somebody should teach Mark Finley how to put on lipstick. She needs to use her good eye while doing this beauty task, he said. And this is from the man who found me too extroverted for our personalities to match. He also doesn't dance! I told him to just stand there while I made the two of us look good. It was at this point when my date became sick to his stomach! Heidi was in charge of this entry, which consisted of a truck playing Disco music. She gave me thumbs up later during the parade as I bogeyed down!
Before things got started, I was greeted by members of the religious-wrong talking out of their asses. It was at this time that my date asked a member the Parade Patrol if it would be okay if he flipped them off? The nice Parade Patrol person advised my date not to confront them. Seattle's finest was also on the case and asked us not to provoke anything. He looked at me and pleaded with me not to do anything. My reputation still precedes me!
Always the class act, I faced the bozos. Then, I showed them the front of my T-shirt. Which read; "T.G.I.F" with a crown of thorns resting on the letters and words "THANK GOD I'M FORGIVEN!" written underneath it. John 1:10 brought the message alive while bringing out its true meaning. The brainwashed twits repeated hatred before someone else told them shut up. The crowd applauded and I made my way into the parade.
Later, on the news, it was reported that the newest threat to Gays was the Christian movement. I made the news - T-shirt and all - with my church family calling me to tell me that they saw my date and me on the news. Later on, my date freaked when he found out about this and politely dumped me. Oh well, at least he fed me!
The Summer Of Pride Divide Part III
The Saga Continues ...
The Summer Of Pride Divide Part III
By Nevin Jefferson
View this portrait on a wall! Blacks in Africa stolen from their mother land, then, bought over to the United States to be sold as new plantation animals. Black women were raped, ravaged, ruined and - in some cases - left with a child that reminded them of their horror. Never the less, they raised them into a loving family -- in spite of the fact that the child was light, bright, and damn near white in a predominately Black complexion family.
Black men were forced to stud the women for a stronger breed of children to be sold -- in spite of the fact that they had husbands whom they had jumped the broom with. The Bible was used as ammunition in defense of slavery. 'The nerve of Blacks wanting freedom.' Fast forward to slavery ending with the lie they told to the Blacks of getting 40 acres and a mule. Instead they found themselves living with the reality of the Jim Crow days.
The Bible was used as ammunition fired in defense of Blacks not deserving any rights whatsoever. As far as most of society was concerned, Blacks were immigrants of unknown descent who had no classification. Fast forward to the fight for civil rights, started by church folks who were considered trouble-stirring radicals at the time. Signs with "God Hates Integration!" followed by signs of "N*! Burn In Hell!" were held up in protests against civil rights. Dr. Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy made civil rights a reality with Lyndon B. Johnson signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Black Gay men and women fought for Gay rights along-side of their Gay brothers and sisters of every race and creed. That showed the true diversity of our community. Yet, once again, the religious-wrong, and broke-wing-simpletons used the Bible as ammunition against homosexuality. Signs with hateful banners that made God blush were on display and hate was being preached to the masses.
If this wasn't enough, Black Gay men and women are still frowned upon by the so-called Black church folks. Remember all of the horrid acts of racism, bigotry, discrimination, and hatred that Blacks fought their way through? Now, Black Gay men and women face the same racists, bigots, and hate filled folks that they went up against, but now in their own community and in the Gay community.
I've been told by people of every race and creed that the so-called Gay community is "the most racist community" there is. Changes are made from within the structure of mainstream society where the good fight was continued by members of the Black Panthers, activists, advocates, and the Black community who wanted better. Now, have Black role models who broke down all barriers and kicked open all of the doors.
Gay Black men and women feel alone, empty, and lost in both the Black and Gay community. They have a sense of not having anywhere to belong and call their own. Real shocker isn't it? I get pissed about it when bars have a no Black policy, when Blacks are not made welcome at events, affairs, and social functions. I get angry when I see members of the white persuasion turn their backs and walk away when a Black man or woman give greetings and salutations with an out stretched hand of friendship.
I experienced this behavior when I attended a SGN function at Manray. I really get livid whenever I find myself facing the same crop of racist crap all over again in this day in age. I leave all of this aggravating nonsense at the altar in the hands of God. This has been my strength, comfort, and peace in my battle as a Black man, Gay man, and HIV-positive man.
Seattle Black Pride came about years ago by a group of successful Gay Black men and women. There was no Black representation in the Gay community and they wanted to bring an end to this. The seed was planted as an idea, sprouted as a dream, and, then, bloomed into reality. Kiantha Ducan-Woods helped bring Seattle Black Pride into the world. Those who were true blue loved the idea of working on the party of all parties. A party to celebrate being Black, Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual, and Transgender was in the making. As time zipped by, the party became hard work. One by one, the numbers started dwindling down.
It was at this time when Kiantha turned Seattle Black Pride into an organization and an annual three-day Black Pride event. Over the past year, Kiantha had meetings with people over dinner or coffee, in her home or theirs. She also met them at Seattle Black Pride's monthly social events. She listened to all suggestions and concerns in regard to the Black LGBT community here in Washington. Today, Seattle/Tacoma Black Pride has positioned itself as an important voice of the Black LGBT community.
All of this came about from the monthly social events held by Seattle Black Pride that got them known in the community, while giving the Black LGBT community somewhere to go. It also allowed them to become a part of the organization, an organization they could call their own. Seattle Black Pride also got involved with the Black leadership to work on other issues, including HIV/AIDS and hunger.
On December 9th, 2005, Seattle Black Pride debuted with the social event "Taste of Life!" On February 11, 2006, the "Royal Valentine's Day" was held. On March 5th, 2006, a book reading and signing was held. On March 18th, 2006, a "Card Party at the Game Room" was held. "BID WHIZ!" -- my favorite of favorite card games that I don't get to play much here in Washington - was played at the card party. On May 13th, 2006, the "Taste of Tacoma Throw-Down" was held. On June 21, 2006, "Reign @ War Room" was held. On June 25, 2006, an "After Pride Parade T-Dance" was held after the Seattle Pride Parade where they were 92nd in the line-up.
SBP became involved with Out and Proud after being asked to join them. They weren't asked to participate in Queer Fest. You'd think that a representation of the Black community would be asked to join in the festivities. It was supposed to be a celebration of Pride and diversity of the Gay community. Kiantha believes that SBP was too new and wasn't known to the folks of Queer Fest. She strongly believes that SBP will be invited next year. Me? I believe that when you're putting together a representation of the Gay community, it should be a true representation of the Gay community. Those involved should make it their business to know who's who in the Gay community since this is whom they should have on display to be recognized and honored by their Gay peers.
Since there are two Black Lesbians who are the backbone of SBP, they should have been invited to join in and march in the bulldagger march -- as well as the main event -- which was the parade. Enough said, okay?
This led up to the celebrations of all celebrations; "Seattle Black Pride" from July 21st-23rd. By this time, everyone was well aware of Seattle Black Pride as an organization and attended with bells, bangles, and bows. The event of events was held at the Langston Hughes Cultural Arts Center. On Friday, July 21st, a Black Pride V.I.P. reception was held. A kick-off celebration featured a fashion show, drag performances, Mr. and Ms. Seattle Black Pride, and guest speakers. The executive board welcomed everyone with cheer, Pride, and love for their fellow LGBT people. This was the event were Antrinette Trammell, head of security and logistics, met Mr. Saga himself. Of course, I wasn't on the list like every event that I attend. When I asked Trammell if she knew who I was? She replied: "Umm-Ump!"
It was Robert, my darling editor at the SGN who came to my rescue and vouched for me as a writer who has a pulse on the Gay community. This event was like all of the previous social events, which was a inclusive celebration for all. The opening night event was hosted by Xavier Onassis Bloomingdale's from Washington D.C.'s Club Chaos. It was a talent packed evening of entertainment with the exception of the "sissy" in a skirt rapping bad poetry accompanied by a piano. This was one of those acts where one goes to the bathroom and for a cigarette, which I did! Downstairs, a Friday night youth dance with Hip-Hop/R&B for Black Gay teens 16 & over was held. I checked this out during my self-proclaimed intermission.
On Saturday, July 22nd, panel discussions, workshops, and films were held at the Seattle Art Museum. Three Dollar Bill Cinema, organizers of the Seattle Gay and Lesbian Film Festival provided the Films. Thanks guys!
On Sunday, July 23, there was a praise and worship where the Seattle Black Pride Choir made their debut. They had Sunday films afterwards and a big BBQ in Pratt Park. This was a Black Gay family reunion where I was reunited with all of the Blacks that I've met here during my 12 years.
I don't know what it is about some of Washington's Gay and Lesbian Black folk who must have a phobia about picking up a telephone and calling someone or returning one's phone calls. I made this fact known to those who asked why haven't I called? I reminded them that I had left them a message, then, I stated the message verbatim.
Dr. Martin Luther King smiled down from heaven at the sight of Black, white, Hispanic, African, and Asian Gay children playing with one another. He had an even bigger smile on seeing our future generation of children -- from toddlers to teens -- playing together in a rainbow connection with race being the farthest thing from their minds.
Living up to their reputation for social events, a "Labor Day Party" was held on September 2, 2006. On October 28th, a very successful "Halloween Carnavale" was held. For those of you who missed out, you can get in on the fun happenings by ending this quicker-than-a-wink year at the New Year's Eve Red Carpet Event December 31st, 2006, at Richard Hugo House. Admission is $10.00 per person. Now, where can you go out to celebrate New Year's Eve for $10.00? Be there or be square! Enough said, okay?
So, who's on the board of SBP? Kiantha Duncan-Woods, board president, brings a wealth of leadership experience with diverse communities. Also, as a successful business owner, she has a lot of relevant skills with grant-writing, fundraising and community organizing. She is very passionate for community and the cause of Seattle Black Pride. She is also a very strong and compassionate individual, which was why the decision to elect Kiantha was uncontested by the committee members present and past.
Isaac Payne, board vice-president, is the very strong and commanding voice that gives value to accountability and commitment. He also brings compassion and caring qualities to the community that was amazing for making Seattle Black Pride a reality.
Harnik Gulait, board secretary, was born in India and raised in the U.S.--mostly Portland and Seattle. He joined at the beginning of the movement in 2005 as both a facilitator and community organizer. He's excited to be involved with Seattle Black Pride, because -- for both people living in Seattle and those moving here from other areas -- there needs to be a more visible, vibrant and cohesive community for Black people. A place people of color to feel welcome.
Trammell Antrinette, security and logistics, brings a wealth of experience and expertise working with security management and logistics. She has worked with various law enforcement agencies during her 12-year career in law enforcement and corrections.
The Seattle Black Pride committee is presently adding members to their board and invites interested people to contact them. They can also use volunteers as well as donations from businesses in the community. It would help if Microsoft and Miller Beer would donate to their organizations like they do for other organizations in the community. Seattle Black Pride had a very good year with next year promising to be even better. The National Black Pride Organization, which charters all Black Pride Organizations nationwide, has a 2-year waiting period before included new groups in their charter. However, Seattle Black Pride did such an excellent that they're already a charter member after one year.
I'm going to become more involved with this excellent organization and help give back what was given to me in this community.
The Summer Of Pride Divide Part III
By Nevin Jefferson
View this portrait on a wall! Blacks in Africa stolen from their mother land, then, bought over to the United States to be sold as new plantation animals. Black women were raped, ravaged, ruined and - in some cases - left with a child that reminded them of their horror. Never the less, they raised them into a loving family -- in spite of the fact that the child was light, bright, and damn near white in a predominately Black complexion family.
Black men were forced to stud the women for a stronger breed of children to be sold -- in spite of the fact that they had husbands whom they had jumped the broom with. The Bible was used as ammunition in defense of slavery. 'The nerve of Blacks wanting freedom.' Fast forward to slavery ending with the lie they told to the Blacks of getting 40 acres and a mule. Instead they found themselves living with the reality of the Jim Crow days.
The Bible was used as ammunition fired in defense of Blacks not deserving any rights whatsoever. As far as most of society was concerned, Blacks were immigrants of unknown descent who had no classification. Fast forward to the fight for civil rights, started by church folks who were considered trouble-stirring radicals at the time. Signs with "God Hates Integration!" followed by signs of "N*! Burn In Hell!" were held up in protests against civil rights. Dr. Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy made civil rights a reality with Lyndon B. Johnson signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Black Gay men and women fought for Gay rights along-side of their Gay brothers and sisters of every race and creed. That showed the true diversity of our community. Yet, once again, the religious-wrong, and broke-wing-simpletons used the Bible as ammunition against homosexuality. Signs with hateful banners that made God blush were on display and hate was being preached to the masses.
If this wasn't enough, Black Gay men and women are still frowned upon by the so-called Black church folks. Remember all of the horrid acts of racism, bigotry, discrimination, and hatred that Blacks fought their way through? Now, Black Gay men and women face the same racists, bigots, and hate filled folks that they went up against, but now in their own community and in the Gay community.
I've been told by people of every race and creed that the so-called Gay community is "the most racist community" there is. Changes are made from within the structure of mainstream society where the good fight was continued by members of the Black Panthers, activists, advocates, and the Black community who wanted better. Now, have Black role models who broke down all barriers and kicked open all of the doors.
Gay Black men and women feel alone, empty, and lost in both the Black and Gay community. They have a sense of not having anywhere to belong and call their own. Real shocker isn't it? I get pissed about it when bars have a no Black policy, when Blacks are not made welcome at events, affairs, and social functions. I get angry when I see members of the white persuasion turn their backs and walk away when a Black man or woman give greetings and salutations with an out stretched hand of friendship.
I experienced this behavior when I attended a SGN function at Manray. I really get livid whenever I find myself facing the same crop of racist crap all over again in this day in age. I leave all of this aggravating nonsense at the altar in the hands of God. This has been my strength, comfort, and peace in my battle as a Black man, Gay man, and HIV-positive man.
Seattle Black Pride came about years ago by a group of successful Gay Black men and women. There was no Black representation in the Gay community and they wanted to bring an end to this. The seed was planted as an idea, sprouted as a dream, and, then, bloomed into reality. Kiantha Ducan-Woods helped bring Seattle Black Pride into the world. Those who were true blue loved the idea of working on the party of all parties. A party to celebrate being Black, Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual, and Transgender was in the making. As time zipped by, the party became hard work. One by one, the numbers started dwindling down.
It was at this time when Kiantha turned Seattle Black Pride into an organization and an annual three-day Black Pride event. Over the past year, Kiantha had meetings with people over dinner or coffee, in her home or theirs. She also met them at Seattle Black Pride's monthly social events. She listened to all suggestions and concerns in regard to the Black LGBT community here in Washington. Today, Seattle/Tacoma Black Pride has positioned itself as an important voice of the Black LGBT community.
All of this came about from the monthly social events held by Seattle Black Pride that got them known in the community, while giving the Black LGBT community somewhere to go. It also allowed them to become a part of the organization, an organization they could call their own. Seattle Black Pride also got involved with the Black leadership to work on other issues, including HIV/AIDS and hunger.
On December 9th, 2005, Seattle Black Pride debuted with the social event "Taste of Life!" On February 11, 2006, the "Royal Valentine's Day" was held. On March 5th, 2006, a book reading and signing was held. On March 18th, 2006, a "Card Party at the Game Room" was held. "BID WHIZ!" -- my favorite of favorite card games that I don't get to play much here in Washington - was played at the card party. On May 13th, 2006, the "Taste of Tacoma Throw-Down" was held. On June 21, 2006, "Reign @ War Room" was held. On June 25, 2006, an "After Pride Parade T-Dance" was held after the Seattle Pride Parade where they were 92nd in the line-up.
SBP became involved with Out and Proud after being asked to join them. They weren't asked to participate in Queer Fest. You'd think that a representation of the Black community would be asked to join in the festivities. It was supposed to be a celebration of Pride and diversity of the Gay community. Kiantha believes that SBP was too new and wasn't known to the folks of Queer Fest. She strongly believes that SBP will be invited next year. Me? I believe that when you're putting together a representation of the Gay community, it should be a true representation of the Gay community. Those involved should make it their business to know who's who in the Gay community since this is whom they should have on display to be recognized and honored by their Gay peers.
Since there are two Black Lesbians who are the backbone of SBP, they should have been invited to join in and march in the bulldagger march -- as well as the main event -- which was the parade. Enough said, okay?
This led up to the celebrations of all celebrations; "Seattle Black Pride" from July 21st-23rd. By this time, everyone was well aware of Seattle Black Pride as an organization and attended with bells, bangles, and bows. The event of events was held at the Langston Hughes Cultural Arts Center. On Friday, July 21st, a Black Pride V.I.P. reception was held. A kick-off celebration featured a fashion show, drag performances, Mr. and Ms. Seattle Black Pride, and guest speakers. The executive board welcomed everyone with cheer, Pride, and love for their fellow LGBT people. This was the event were Antrinette Trammell, head of security and logistics, met Mr. Saga himself. Of course, I wasn't on the list like every event that I attend. When I asked Trammell if she knew who I was? She replied: "Umm-Ump!"
It was Robert, my darling editor at the SGN who came to my rescue and vouched for me as a writer who has a pulse on the Gay community. This event was like all of the previous social events, which was a inclusive celebration for all. The opening night event was hosted by Xavier Onassis Bloomingdale's from Washington D.C.'s Club Chaos. It was a talent packed evening of entertainment with the exception of the "sissy" in a skirt rapping bad poetry accompanied by a piano. This was one of those acts where one goes to the bathroom and for a cigarette, which I did! Downstairs, a Friday night youth dance with Hip-Hop/R&B for Black Gay teens 16 & over was held. I checked this out during my self-proclaimed intermission.
On Saturday, July 22nd, panel discussions, workshops, and films were held at the Seattle Art Museum. Three Dollar Bill Cinema, organizers of the Seattle Gay and Lesbian Film Festival provided the Films. Thanks guys!
On Sunday, July 23, there was a praise and worship where the Seattle Black Pride Choir made their debut. They had Sunday films afterwards and a big BBQ in Pratt Park. This was a Black Gay family reunion where I was reunited with all of the Blacks that I've met here during my 12 years.
I don't know what it is about some of Washington's Gay and Lesbian Black folk who must have a phobia about picking up a telephone and calling someone or returning one's phone calls. I made this fact known to those who asked why haven't I called? I reminded them that I had left them a message, then, I stated the message verbatim.
Dr. Martin Luther King smiled down from heaven at the sight of Black, white, Hispanic, African, and Asian Gay children playing with one another. He had an even bigger smile on seeing our future generation of children -- from toddlers to teens -- playing together in a rainbow connection with race being the farthest thing from their minds.
Living up to their reputation for social events, a "Labor Day Party" was held on September 2, 2006. On October 28th, a very successful "Halloween Carnavale" was held. For those of you who missed out, you can get in on the fun happenings by ending this quicker-than-a-wink year at the New Year's Eve Red Carpet Event December 31st, 2006, at Richard Hugo House. Admission is $10.00 per person. Now, where can you go out to celebrate New Year's Eve for $10.00? Be there or be square! Enough said, okay?
So, who's on the board of SBP? Kiantha Duncan-Woods, board president, brings a wealth of leadership experience with diverse communities. Also, as a successful business owner, she has a lot of relevant skills with grant-writing, fundraising and community organizing. She is very passionate for community and the cause of Seattle Black Pride. She is also a very strong and compassionate individual, which was why the decision to elect Kiantha was uncontested by the committee members present and past.
Isaac Payne, board vice-president, is the very strong and commanding voice that gives value to accountability and commitment. He also brings compassion and caring qualities to the community that was amazing for making Seattle Black Pride a reality.
Harnik Gulait, board secretary, was born in India and raised in the U.S.--mostly Portland and Seattle. He joined at the beginning of the movement in 2005 as both a facilitator and community organizer. He's excited to be involved with Seattle Black Pride, because -- for both people living in Seattle and those moving here from other areas -- there needs to be a more visible, vibrant and cohesive community for Black people. A place people of color to feel welcome.
Trammell Antrinette, security and logistics, brings a wealth of experience and expertise working with security management and logistics. She has worked with various law enforcement agencies during her 12-year career in law enforcement and corrections.
The Seattle Black Pride committee is presently adding members to their board and invites interested people to contact them. They can also use volunteers as well as donations from businesses in the community. It would help if Microsoft and Miller Beer would donate to their organizations like they do for other organizations in the community. Seattle Black Pride had a very good year with next year promising to be even better. The National Black Pride Organization, which charters all Black Pride Organizations nationwide, has a 2-year waiting period before included new groups in their charter. However, Seattle Black Pride did such an excellent that they're already a charter member after one year.
I'm going to become more involved with this excellent organization and help give back what was given to me in this community.
The Summer Of Pride Divide Part II!
The Saga Continues
Part II: The Summer of Pride Divide!
By Nevin Jefferson
Eureka! A Gay Pride Parade down 4th Street to the Seattle Center, which was televised on Channel 11 for all to see: a celebration of Pride, diversity, and unity! The televised edition -- minus the "G Word" -- featured our very own Ma Finley hosting the Seattle Pride Parade. A gay first, WOW! It gets even better gang, the Queer community finally cleaned up their act! Amen and Halleluiah to that Brothers Sisters! All of the participating contingences in the parade who marched down the street were a class act; proud of whom they were.
The Bra Show featuring fried eggs, lobster claws, and various creative simple bra designs -- all for the cause of Breast Cancer research was done in style, class, and taste. The biggest blemish was the man wearing a thong who had no business wearing a thong. There are some things that need to be left on the back porch, not on the front porch for all to see. The photographers and news crews were heart broken when they discovered that their lenses failed to focus on bare asses, leather boys wearing collars --complete with leashes -- being walked like dogs, follow the bouncing tits shots, and other images that depreciate from our gay value of true self. Gone were the long-lasting wrong impressions that leave on the minds of John and Jane Q. Public.
Gone at long last were the negative images that develop into the ammunition for the religious-wrong who display these pictures as their rendition of the gay life style that's despicable and deplorable. Gone from the foyers and hallways of the hate cults gathering halls will be the outlandish and pathetic pictures from the Gay Pride Parade posted on the bulletin boards underneath a banner that reads: "Homosexuals Burn In Hell!" Pictures of All-America, everyday people who look like the boy or girl next door, co-worker, or the ones sitting in the pews next to or across from them in church don't belong under this banner. In actuality, we're the Queer next door who all hail from Gay-America and fly the rainbow flag instead of the America flag.
The photographers and news crew had to settle for positive images of the festivity of those marching in the parade or celebrating nearby: the crowds, children, and yours truly (holding a basket filled with condoms and lube). I marched with Chicken Soup, a program of Lifelong Aids Alliance. Their theme was "STOP IT!". The T-shirts worn by 100-plus strong contingent had a big "Stop" sign with the Lifelong Aids Alliance logo surrounded in black. The text read: STOP! STDS, AIDS, HIV, SEXISM, DENIAL, HOMOPHOBIA, DISCRIMINATION, RACISM, PREJUDICE, ISOLATION, ASSUMING, JUDGEMENT, TRANSPHOBIA, STIGMA, and HATRED. We chanted "STOP AIDS NOW," as they quickly cut to commercials. The rest of the contingence ended up on the editing room floor.
Miss Intermission who rolled behind us in a bike-mobile with candy for the kids ended up in a pile of film next to Chicken Soup's snip-takes. I guess that showing it in public is one thing, but saying it out loud is another. Whatever happened to "Silence = Death?" Depending on their lineup position. I usually have the option of marching with the Seattle Gay News, which is celebrating 33 years. But, not this year.
Freedom of speech means having the freedom to speak out against or for all causes, organizations, and things that concerns the gay community. This is a time for everyone to pull together for a celebration of who and what we truly are. If Blacks , Native American Indians, Asians, Hispanics, and other races pull together as one in perfect peace and harmony while fighting oppression, so can the Gay Community.
It was awkward at first to pass out greetings and condoms to a mixed crowd of an estimated 200,00 Gay Pride cheerers and well wishers from both sides of the tracks. It felt good to have love, support, and acceptance from our heterosexual friends. It felt absolutely marvelous to see more Blacks cheering in the crowds -- as well as participating in the Parade. It was a coming of age for the of the Gay Pride Parade that included not only local businesses, but major national and international corporations from Starbucks to Wells Fargo. With Wells Fargo marching out its trademark horse-drawn stagecoach, trailed by dozens of employees in T-shirts reading "Got Diversity?" Not to mention a gentleman shoving up the duties from the horses who got a round of applause from the crowd and those in the parade.
It was a welcoming and joyous feeling to be at the Seattle Center where the rally was held and to see the booths stocked with souvenirs and keepsakes from the organizations and businesses. It was hotter that hot for the estimated 40,000 Seattleites, many of whom jumped into the fountain to keep cool. Seattle Pride got the media seal of approval as one of the summer events to look forward to -- along with the Fremont Fair and Sea Fair. What no Queer-Fest?
It's one for ALL, not some for others on a day that should be a major celebration for the Queer community as a whole. Next year, let's go with the week of activities, events, and pre-parties for the diverse interests of all parties involved. That means one parade as the grand finale. It should also honor and celebrate those who stand up and fight for the rights of the Queer community and those who help make it a better place.
The Saga Continues&. Seattle Black Pride makes a strong and proud appearance in the Gay Community.
Ski Trip!
The Saga Continue...
Ski Trip
By Nevin Jefferson
My movie of choice for this year's Gay and Lesbian Film Festival was the Ski Trip, which is written, directed and starring, Maurice Jamal. The Ski Trip is the an outstanding movie in this year's film festival. It's superbly written, directed, and has the 'talent' that Jamal was casting for when he set out to create a stellar cast. He was seeking an "OUT" Black Gay man who knows the perils of hell that goes on in Hollywierd. He asked the typical Gay questions during auditions that only a Gay man would know. He wasn't out to discriminate against others because he doesn't like to be discriminated against himself. He ended up with a 50/50 split of Gay and straight.
The movie opens with close-ups of Corey's close friends as they leave their joyful and cute birthday messages for the, now, 30-year-old Corey. One caller is a man who got Corey's phone number off the bathroom wall. Corey awakens recently dumped, unemployed, and riddled with guilt about not going to the gym for a year. The story is narrated by Corey as he leads us into his world. Terry (Daren Fleming) calls Cory to bring him into the first day of making 30 along with the snide remarks and cute comments that only a true drag queen can say. Corey tries to escape the from the 'dish' by hanging up on Terry. Terry, an over the top part-time drag queen who performs under the name of "Grenadine Ross" - full of aspiration - continues to call back. This leads the audience into the first stint of comedy after Cory's mother calls with Cory thinking that the call was from the persistence Terry. He quickly finds out that it's his mother! The voices of Corey's mother and her boyfriend (who's called Uncle by Corey) are done in the sounds of "blah-blah" and horn sounds (i.e. like in the Charlie Brown cartoons).
The next person we meet is Nikki (Cassandra Cruz), an on the prowl for the 'Drawers' Butch Lesbian who's one of the boys. Her mouth motions and mannerisms along with Lesbian commentary will thrill the Lesbian audience. We quickly learn that Corey, Nikki, and Terry go way back to the 90's when they were straight. This is why they're able to come over whenever the mood strikes them because, they have key's to Corey's apartment. Upon seeing the broken framed picture of Marcus (William Blagrove), Corey's ex on the floor of the apartment, Terry and Nikki begin their plans to cheer Corey up. It's the friend in need who gets the help indeed. Terry comes up with the idea of a party at their favorite bar, then begins calling people to invite them.
We get an introduction to the cast as they're called by Terry who invites them to the celebration. Byron (Nathan Hale), is a Bitchy Queen with a serious attitude. When he finds out that Corey and Nikki are listening to the conversation on a speaker phone he calls Terry a "Bitch" for doing this ploy. The three in return call him a "Bitch" after the call ends in a hang up by all parties. Later on in the day, we meet Omar (John Rankin) who has a oblivious crush big time on Corey, who could care less about Omar. Not only does Omar come over to Corey's small apartment with a cake, he gives Corey a action figure of one of the cartoon characters in Corey's comic book. The one that Corey has given up on.
At the bar we meet Carlos (Emanuel Xavier) where he's a bartender with high hopes of becoming a music producer. Carlos serves 'cocktails' in the bathroom to the hot numbers he scores - complete with condoms. This is how he became friends with Terry, Corey, and Byron, whom he had sex with after being called a "HO" by Terry and Corey. Carlos defends himself by confessing to being a slut which, he says, is different. Every bar has it's sexy and muscular studs with looks that stop time and start lustful fantasies from those looking on. Tyson (Haaz) is this same described Stud who blows everyone in the bar away. One scene becomes hilarious after Terry lures Tyson over to Corey, then, he bails out on the two.
Corey says and behaves in a way you're not supposed to when trying to make an impression. Byron ends up stealing Tyson away from Corey by doing the 'booty' dance. Corey explodes from humiliation - after becoming a human bomb - while attempting to score the man of his and everyone else's dream. The Ski Trip takes off after Nikki suggests that they go on a ski trip to get away. For entertainment, Terry is prepared to do a Talent Show as Cassandra Cruz who spends most of the time cruising. The Ski Trip delivers from the setup of characters who go on a road trip that becomes one adventure after another. Terry Fed-Ex's his clothes to the house where they're staying for the weekend after learning that there's no room in the trunk of the very small compact car that Omar rents as their transportation.
Most Blacks and Hispanics don't ski because putting two sticks on your feet, then, sliding down hills isn't something that they desire to do in their lives. Neither do these characters who we observe packing, driving, lodging, dressing, drinking, and having a snowball fight. We see Terry going into a masculine mannerism after getting hit with a snowball. This gives commentary to the fact that Black LGBT ski weekends draw as many non-skiers as skiers. The avalanche falls on the webs weaved by the characters as they play 'tell a story, then, drink.' The claws come out with fur flying as secrets are exposed center stage and placed in the spotlight. I'm not going to spoil it by telling you how the 'snow' hit the fan - complete with a Blizzard that traps them for a couple of more days. The friend in need adage blow's up in the faces of Corey, Terry, and Nikki after learning that Cory's love affair reality is really a lonely Gay man's fantasy .
The Ski Trip does have a happy ending. This is a combination of comedy and drama; with drama being in bold print. Ski Trip tells the tale about a Black and Latino community that explores our relationships for what they really are, rather than what we would fantasize them to be. As well as how Blacks and Latinos are real and true to themselves without being a stereo-type. The Ski Trip was the winner of the "Best New Feature Film" award at the 2004 Oakland Black Gay and Lesbian Film Festival. Jamal worked in advertising and is currently the writer, director, and star in the Don Chappelle Show.
The end production is a extremely well packaged film complete with fantastic editing, directing, and acting. The Ski Trip was made on a budget of $10 thousand smack-a-roos that screens like a $100,000 dollar production. The soundtrack of the movies is simply the best. Ski Trip has been picked up by Logo, the new Gay station on Direct TV and Comcast. His next production will be on a bigger budget with Loretta Divine and Sherly Lee Ralph starring. After the preview, Jamal spoke to the audience where he shared his woes with the movie, because most festivals had a hard time with a Black movie with Gay characters. Black Festivals, who had a hard time with a Gay movie that stars a Black cast. With gifted talent like his, Jamal has nothing to worry about. The Ski Trip is a delight to watch and a must for your DVD collection.
The Black Facts About HIV!
The Saga Continues...
The Black Facts About HIV!
By Nevin Jefferson
I strongly advice Black Church Leaders to offer love, compassion, and care to their parish members who are infected with this deadly virus that still has no cure. Blacks aren't getting the medical treatment that they need, since they're going to their family practice physician instead of a infectious disease control doctor.
Women of color account for 80 percent of all women estimated to be living with AIDS, with Black women making up 64 percent of that total alone. Women across racial/ethnic groups most commonly report heterosexual contact or injection drug use as their primary modes of exposure to HIV. Black and Hispanic women accounted for 81 percent of new AIDS diagnoses in 2004. HIV/AIDS was the leading cause of death among African American women ages 25-34 and the third leading cause for ages 35-44 in 2002. HIV/AIDS was also the fourth leading cause of death for Hispanic women ages 35-44.
African Americans account for 40 percent of the total estimated AIDS diagnoses through 2004, though they make up only 12.2 percent of the population. They also represent an estimated 50 percent of persons newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 2004. Hispanics account for 19 percent of total estimated AIDS diagnoses through 2004, though they make up only 14.2 percent of the population. The number of Asian/Pacific Islanders and American Indian/Alaska Natives living with AIDS continues to rise, with an approximately 10 percent increase each year over the past five years.
March 5th through March 11th marks the 17th Annual Black Church Week of Pray for the Heal of AIDS. This is a powerful week of prayer and education that engages Black congregations to take action towards stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in Black communities worldwide. Episcopalians care! Okay, so what if they're up in a tizzy about the appointment of a Gay Bishop. Big Woop! They had a problem with Blacks, in spite of the fact that Absalom Jones was the first Black Minister and Bishop for Episcopalians. And he is now a Saint in the Episcopal faith.
The same folks foamed at the mouths and showed their true colors about Women becoming Vicars and Bishops with the Rt. Rev. Nedi Rivera being the newly appointed Bishop in Washington. During a recent talk with Rivera, she suggested that I should make AIDS my ministry, which I totally agreed with. The Episcopalian Diocese published a booklet with resources for those inflicted with AIDS/HIV. They do their part in giving to those in need the help that they need. Along with the love, compassion, and support that one seeks when suffering from an illness with no cure. We are often alienated from families, friends, and so-called church families. Episcopalians are here to help, serve, comfort, and administer healing with the power of prayer Amen! This is how you express the love of God towards other.
Part I:Summer of Pride Divide!
The Saga Continues...
Part I: Summer of Pride Divide!
by Nevin Jefferson
Thank God, that I'm blessed and not stressed! Had I been the other, I'd be a basket case after the themed summer of cease and desist razor edged fruit & fiber feud that slashed the 2006 Gay Pride Parade into 2. 2-2-2 Parades not ONE!
The idea is for all of our diversities, personas, and other elements to blend into one; the total being of who and what we are. This great sensational feeling is one that should be continued throughout the year. It's the time for businesses, organizations, bars, and people who do great work in the community to be recognized and honored for the hard work that they do.
Once upon a time, the shakers and makers of the gay community were asked to be keynote speakers. I asked to be a keynote speaker, then, introduce the punk rock group "The Dead Vampires" to the stage. Their finale would have been playing a song "Black Cock" with my dancing around the stage. "What?" I was told NO! The parties that be had no idea or clue about who I was and the things that I do in the community. One would think that the Pride committee should have a steady pulse on the community and know who's who. And people wonder why Blacks don't participate or are visible in the gay community.
The hell and havoc started last year in 2005 when the folks at the Seattle Gay Pride announced that the Gay Pride Parade would be held Downtown the following year, complete with the Pride Rally at the Seattle Center. The Gay Pride Parade originally started on Occidental then sashayed and marched down 4th street in Pride years past. I've been advocating for the longest that the Gay Pride Parade be held on a main street instead of our own neighborhood. If you're going to take it into the streets why not the major ones?
The Dykes and Business owners on Capitol Hill wanted the Gay Pride Parade kept on the hill. Business hasn't been good since Mr. and Mrs. Straight -- complete with unruly juvenile children -- have taken over Capitol Hill with it going to hell in a hand basket. Mr. And Mrs. Straight can't afford to shop like we can. This is why the business owners wanted the Gay Pride Parade to stay on Capitol Hill. This way, they could make a killing in profits from the festivities. As the occasion neared, a media battle took place on the pages of the Seattle Gay News.
Adverbs, adjectives, nouns, verbs, pronouns, punctuations, and exclamation points fired off onto the pages. It really got ugly when the Capitol Hill Parade folks demanded that two of the biggest sponsors sponsor their parade. Microsoft shut down their systems and Miller stopped serving after both felt bullied, pressured, and caught in the middle of a fruit and fiber feud. Loyalties were lost, feelings were hurt, and Lesbians decided to call themselves "QUEER!" Oh dear! As the dust cleared Queer Fest was born. Their agenda included festivities complete with Jody Watson and a Dyke march.
On a June day before Gay Pride Week, the gay community found its dirty laundry hanging out to dry on the front page of the corporate mainstream rag that's afraid to publish my Saga's. They quote and print every lame brain, hateful, and ignorant brain farts from the homophobic anal retentive morons that disgrace the pages of the press. Why not a positive rebuttal or informative, provocative, and thought provoking Saga? The article instigated, twisted, and pulled out of proportion the fact that at a time for celebration, joy, pride, and unity that the Gay community was at war with one another. For the first time in Gay Pride History gays and lesbians had to choose what Gay Pride Parade they would attend. The article also hinted that by having events on the same weekend was a power play by both sides. The logical thing to do was to have the events on different weekends.
The majority of us gay guys thought that this was a Dyke affair now known as Queer Fest. The majority of guys and studs felt like they wouldn't feel welcome at the other Parade because they weren't Queer Dykes! Dykes as Queers? Oh, no you don't boyfriend! Keep your lipstick off of our Queer. If this wasn't enough, I was hit by the comments:
"How can you write about the gay community when there is no gay community?"
"There is no Gay Pride!"
"The Parade is a big embarrassment to those who are your normal everyday looking folks. The images shown on the news and in the papers are stereotype images that bring the community down."
I was in a Bath House at the time, one that didn't have any bathtubs which I found odd since it was supposed to be a Bath House. A place where men get it on, get it off; then, flee the scene in a guilt ridden rage wrapped in shame. The closeted, married, and deep in denial men bolt out of the door before checking out of the club. This is the part where the job duty of key retrieval is enforced -- long sprints and all. I ran track in high school. I was 8th in the Statewide Cross-Country Competition. Why didn't I finish in the top spots you ask? Because I stopped to smoke a cigarette. Okay?
Abnormally, I tell the them that if they are that ashamed of what they do, they don't have any business doing it. Then, I'd place my hands on them and say a prayer for forgiveness of themselves and those whom they had hurt and those who had hurt them. A prayer for peace, comfort, acceptance, and rest in the truth of their being. I pray for the day when they call Jesus to enter their hearts, life, world, and affairs with God a part of their lives. From this point on, the way that they handle the many of aggravating challenges in their life is how they become into the person who they are from within to without. Since it was Gay Pride Week, I let it go with a tsk-tsk-tsk after taking the key away from them.
I watched the Queer Fest Parade and was shocked when I saw Dykes on Bikes in shirts, tank tops, and midriffs. Gone from the Parade and crowd were the bare chested, screaming, flaming, effeminate queens who make the Queens on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy look straight. My up close and personal lesbian media star chided me about watching "The L Word". Why? Because no lesbians look like the ones on the television show complete with its own fashion line. I saw them at this Queer Feast! For a very quick moment I thought that I was hallucinating from the toxic meds that I take.
Getting back to the point, I not only saw, but I wished greetings and Queer Fest salutations to Pearl Petites (slang given to my mother Pearl Jefferson who was pretty, petite, fun, cute, and didn't like to be f*cked with!), great 8's (dress size not dick size), shapely tens, and buffed, pumped, and stout manly Queers who know how to make a pussy purr. I asked one in particular, in a guy to guy talk, that opens the door to bragging. What? Not only does she make it purr, she makes it M-E-O-W her name. You go Stud! I didn't participate in the Dyke march because I didn't have a flannel shirt to wear.
We Are One!
The Saga Continues…
We are One!
By Nevin Jefferson
People love to bounce topics and strong subject manners to me to be heard while forming a consensus about their life issues. The latest bummer in the Gay community according to the ones who spoke their peace and never to be quiet again in life. Is that there’s no love, compassion, good will, support, or a sense of family in the Gay community. The Gay community is quick to zap your self-worth and self-esteem leaving you with a sense of nothing.Idt's ironic that with extreme prejudice,discrimination,and in-fighting,and bigotry in the gay community. They ban together for Gay Rights!Huh? Key word here gang,"UNITITY" The million dollar question among the gay rank is that “Why can’t Gays and Lesbians be more loving towards one another?” You can love a person without sleeping with them. The runner up question is “Why can’t Gays and Lesbians make a change in themselves for the better?” There’s a strong notion that some Gays and Lesbians see the people they meet as a new screw, conquest, boyfriend/girlfriend material or husband/wife package. There’s a strong need for something young and cute to keep things generating in a pretentious world. The next bummer issue was that people aren’t friendly and that its hard to meet people in the Gay community. So there you have it! Okay, we have the problem. What do we do for a solution? For starters, it all begins within each and every one of us to turn things around for the better. Meet people as the individual that they are not who you want them to be according to your mindset. For those who need it or don’t need it, get into therapy, which will help you develop a keen sense of self. You learn to deal with the dark truth about yourself and changing for the good of yourself and your fellowman. All it takes is one to keep the good flowing while making the world a better place in their own right. Like attracts like. Let’s start attracting the good that’s due to us. Don’t let bitter, discontent, Emotional Vampires bring you down. Transform the negative feelings and emotions to a positive that builds you up stronger inside. Nobody and no one is going to ruin the good times and emotions that you’re expressing. It’s all in the essence of things while hoping for the best and getting the best. A friend of mine told me that negative people and Emotional Vampires need to TTATC (Take Their Ass To Church) and turn their life around. If the politics of Organized Religion are too much for your nerves open your heart to Jesus and his love will see you through. This Gay Pride week and everyday afterwards should be reaching out to others and helping those in need. Being a friend to one who needs companion and a guiding light. It’s not about being self-center, self-absorbed, or uncaring towards other. It’s all about sharing the love of God and be one with your fellowman. You can be a spiritual being without being a Religious frantic about it. You get in tune with yourself while becoming the person God meant for you to be. It’s all for the good of God and for the common good among your fellow Queens, Kings, and Nobleperson. Spiritually brings you into a new light that defines and renews your soul with a close, personal, relationship with God giving you a spiritual awakening. You realize that you’re here on God’s green earth for a reason and a purpose with every intention of seeing God’s will through. Each and every day is a gift from God that’s treasured and cherished. It’s no longer about you! You become more loving, caring, giving, forgiving, joyous, helpful towards others, prosperous, healing, cleansing, and find inner peace, inner strength, and happiness. You know that you’re doing exactly what you’re supposed to be doing and doing it exactly at that time. Everything is for the good of God and all things started by God’s hand for the cause of good will be completed for that good. You give thanks and praise to God while testifying to others along the paths of your spiritual journey that God is real with the good that he has done for you. You learn that you’re a child of God, created in his image and likeness while seeing the face of God in friends, acquaintances, and your enemies. You learn to seek the wisdom and guidance of Divine Intelligence through prayer. The light shines before you in everything that you do. Divine Intelligence will reveal all that you need to know, what you need to do and how to go about doing it. You step out on faith, knowing they you are following the divine plan for your life. You have the God-given potential to achieve success, whether taking a test, seeking a career change or looking for employment. In this springtime of your soul, you are refreshed. Your hope is made new. If you find yourself feeling anxious or stressful while you seek this change in status, you keep your mind focused on God and find him a stress reliever. This allows you to concentrate on using your skills and abilities. You have strong faith in God that you can develop the potential He has invested in you. You expect to achieve success and you do. The scripture reading; “I can do all things through Christ who strengthen me” will have new meaning and gets stronger with each saying. Praying and mediating each day and throughout each day puts you in contact with God while seeing him in your presence. Good or bad, God is always there. It’s up to you to believe this and live out your life doing God’s work and carrying out his plan. You see the splendor of God’s artsy in everything you look at with road trips, hiking, communing with nature becoming a masterpiece to the eyes. You know that you’re loved and that you’re special which makes life much more for the living. If you can’t say Amen to this, say ouch! My ancestors were raped and ravaged by drunken Vikings, The lust of the Irish, Mad Englishmen, Invaded by Germans, Italian Bandits, Thrill seeking Frenchmen, and every tribe of the Native American Indians. This was on my Father's side! My Mother's side came straight off of the boat from Africa. They were sold into slavery and were raped by the Bible belt Southern crowd. The battle between light and dark skinned Blacks still continues with a vengeance. Upon learning this, I chopped down my Family Tree and burned it. I'm Black with a twist. History does repeat itself; You and I are living proof of this. If anyone should have a feeling of the Black experience, it's the gay community. True, you can hide the fact of being gay, but you can't hide the color of your skin. With the exception of Michael and LaToya Jackson who need to leave that bleaching cream alone! Now we have the non straight acting versus the flamboyant, Leather versus non leather, Out versus the In, The Blacks who feel left out of the gay community and want to become a part of it versus those who rather leave well enough alone keeping to themselves. And then we have those who want to be a part of society and those who don’t. We also have those who feel like they don’t have anything in common with the gay community as a whole. We also have those who feel that being sexual and being gay are two different things. The thing needed here to bridge this gap is unity. This and respecting each other’s personal choices and preferences. We are one, we are family! Like it or not. We entered the 21st century going from civil rights to gay rights. Being Black doesn't make me any less of a human being, nor does being gay. I've got two for the price of one. It's the same for a woman who's Black and gay or a woman who's gay and is facing the same double whammy. We go forth proving to the world that we're no different, only better. Being whom and what we are shouldn't take away from what we can or will be. We should strive to be respected individuals who are very diverse in culture with our own offering to the world. True, the days of going through back doors are out. Coming out of closets are in. Fighting for recognition as a person and holding your head up proudly, not being ashamed of yourself. Should be at the top of our agenda and a common goal to achieve. It’s fighting the stereotypes placed on us by society. From "How do you act around or treat a Black person? To "How do you act around or treat a gay person?" From pimps and welfare mothers to hairdressers and interior decorators. From not going to the back of the bus to not going to the back room of bars. From strong positive Black figures to strong positive gay figures. From "I don't want my child to date or marry a Black" to "I don't want my child to be gay or be friends with them." From being called a "nigger" to being called a “fag". Facing bigotry every day and the constant battle not to strangle someone for cruel and demeaning remarks is getting harder each day. From token Black to token gay. From "my best friend is Black to "my best friend is gay". Then there are gays not being in the military with the same excuses used against Blacks. It’s okay to die for a country where you don’t have the freedom or rights that’s being fought for. The idea of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” rule being dropped during the war with the possibility of charges being bought up against you afterwards is just as lame as the idiots who enforced this rule. It’s the same crap in a different era with the gay heroes on September 11th being overlooked. This should prove that gays are a big part of this country and carry the same pride and respect for their nation. Now America has gone to hanging American flags from hanging Blacks. The gay bashing and hatred towards us continues just as strongly with an American flag in the background. Now, where’s the patriotism in that one? We still have the Southern Baptist Bible belt crowd still breathing down our necks with hatred laced with Bible quotes. The problem isn't what's in the Bible, it's the interpretation perceived by these brain dead idiots. To go on television and blame gays, pro-lifers, and people not lost in the dark like they are for World tragedies shows the lack of intelligence that left a vortex inside their head. In the midst of a crisis instead of giving compassion, they're giving malice laced with ignorance, bigotry, and hatred all in the name of God. Where's the Christian love in this one gang? And why the media break their neck to broadcast this bogus crap baffles me to no end. Anything anti-gay is newsworthy and is treated as the standard norm. Most people believe what they see on television and read in the newspapers. The fact that these Hate Worshippers have their own television station is frightening. Over a million minds corrupted daily with the count climbing higher than McDonald’s hamburger sales. Like the Blacks, we have to start fighting back, but first we have to stop fighting among ourselves. Division belongs in math! It’s time to start crashing affairs and funerals just like they’re doing to us. It’s time to put an end to this nonsense once and for all, true it won’t happen overnight. If we start standing up to these bozos they will back down and find a weaker target. If someone gets in your face with their screwed up beliefs get them out of it with the truth that you believe in yourselves. Give them a fight; challenge them at their own game using every wit in your being to win. It’s time for the media to start taking us seriously and not heed the warnings of counteractions that we have in store. We all know that it’s going to be real cute, well done, and entertaining at the same time. Things take time, energy, and creative involvement with everyone adding their ingredients to the mix to complete the recipe. Large syndications have bought out a majority of gay publications dictating to the editors what to write. Like what? Negativity in the worst degree, like bare backing, stopping the use of condoms that is irresponsibility being handed out on a silver platter for some. A half page column on a gay actor who’s out can’t get work followed by a three to four photo spread on a straight actor excited about taking on a gay role. Not to mention writers who majored in contempt and malice with a minor in self-hatred. They’re wolves in sheep’s clothing deceiving us with meaningless words to keep us down. They’re writing against our cause instead of for our cause, which knocks us back to square one. Where’s the provocative, ground breaking, thought propounding journalism and positive exposure that the gay community needs as a whole? It’s getting the door slammed in our faces. The time is more than now to kick it open, storm in and take our places while refusing to be moved. Just like Rosa Parks did to do her part in the Black History among others who refused to back down. Dr. King’s Dream included us too, if you don’t believe me, ask Mrs. King and her children who expressed the rights for gays freely. Of course, they had a family member oppose them, but where is she now? Among the other homophobic idiots who try to take us on and lose.
© Nevin Jefferson, All Rights Reserved
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