Rep. Sally Kern issues Proclamation for Morality blaming the nation's problems on gays

According to News 9 in Oklahoma City, "Rep. Sally Kern's "Oklahoma Citizen's Proclamation for Morality" blames many of the nation's problems on those involved in "abortion, pornography, same sex marriage, sex trafficking, divorce and other forms of debauchers.""

This woman is unbelievable.

Quote of the Day: Gene Simmons on Adam Lambert

"If only the world was not homophobic, but it is. I would be the first one to vote for equal rights for gay women and men, and get the church and the state to stop telling everybody how to lead their lives, but do I think he's killed his career? Oh, in an instant." - Gene Simmons on Adam Lambert

Check out 9News' coverage of Denver PrideFest 2009

Channel 9's TaRhonda Thomas does a great job covering Denver PrideFest 2009 and my good friend Matt Kailey is featured heavily saying smart and important things!

The 10th anniversary of TV's first gay kiss

There's a great story over at Spangle Magazine from Brian Patrick Thornton about taking part in America's first-ever nationally televised gay kiss.

I totally remember when that happened!

The Samples - Did You Ever Look So Nice

Enjoy this long jam from The Samples at Red Rocks in honor of their upcoming 4th of July reunion appearance at 4thFest at Dick's Sporting Goods Park this Saturday.

Celebrate the 4th of July with the Rapids

Are you ready for the biggest, most explosive celebration of America's birthday in the state?

It's "4thFest 2009" this Saturday at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. Hosted by the Colorado Rapids and Commerce City, 4thFest will feature a pregame festival at 5 p.m., the Rapids game vs. Chicago, and a special reunion concert by The Samples, all followed by the largest fireworks show in Colorado.

Colorado decriminalizes catching rainwater

Did you know that here in Colorado it was illegal to catch rainwater? That's because the rain belongs to developers and agencies who own the water rights. Anyway, a recent study convinced lawmakers that homeowners collecting rainwater to water their gardens or wash their cars wouldn't rob the owners of those water rights of their property. So go hog wild.

See also the article 'Who Owns Colorado's Rainwater' from the LA Times.

And find out how to build your own cheap and easy rain barrels at Homegrown.org.

Making a Federal case out of Prop. 8

Lambda Legal, the National Center for Lesbian Rights and the American Civil Liberties Union have filed briefs in support of a federal lawsuit that seeks to overturn California's Proposition 8 constitutional marriage ban. The suit, whose plaintiffs are represented by attorneys Ted Olson and David Boies, will have its first day in court on Thursday, when U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker will hear arguments on whether to issue an injunction against the enforcement of the voter-approved ban.

If nothing else, the fight against Prop. 8 has galvanized the LGBT community in a way that I don't think I've seen since the early days of the fight against HIV/AIDS. Below check out my footage from Denver's Anti-Prop. 8 rally. I'd say it was the biggest turnout I've seen in Denver for a non-PrideFest related LGBT event.

Obama pledges - again - to end Don't Ask, Don't Tell

President Barack Obama, during a White House event for LGBT leaders to mark the 40th anniversary of Stonewall, used the occasion to announce that defense officials are working on a way to repeal the military gay ban as part of the administration's commitment to equal rights for all.

"Even as we face extraordinary challenges as a nation, we cannot -- and will not -- put aside issues of basic equality," Obama said. "We seek an America in which no one feels the pain of discrimination based on who you are or who you love."

Presenting Senator Al Franken

“Senator-elect Franken has been a long time supporter and strong advocate for fairness and equality for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. His leadership in the United States Senate will help to ensure that all people in Minnesota, and throughout the country, are treated equally,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “We were honored to endorse Senator-elect Franken’s candidacy last March and we look forward to working with him in the US Senate to promote the basic tenant of our democracy that all Americans have full equality under the law.”

Human Rights Campaign members in Minnesota were a key component of Al Franken’s army of volunteers during last year’s Senate campaign. In addition to our volunteer Minnesota members, the Human Rights Campaign also deployed three staff members to the state to help turn out voters and supporters for Franken during the campaign’s “get-out-the-vote” effort. Whether it was hosting house parties, meet and greet events or online fundraising, the Human Rights Campaign played an integral part in helping to ensure that Minnesota sent pro-equality candidate Al Franken to the United States Senate.

*ok, the pic may not be dignified but isn't it delightful?

What's up with the Fort Worth police?

I just read about this over at KennethInThe212 and now HRC has issued a statement calling for an investigation into some alleged police misconduct at a gay bar in Fort Worth, Texas this weekend.

It looks like some Stonewall shit.

Here's what Joe Solmonese has to say:

“Brutality at the hands of law enforcement is never acceptable and these allegations demonstrate the need for a thorough and impartial investigation,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “We applaud the Fort Worth community for seeking answers to these very serious charges.”

Fort Worth police officers and Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission agents arrested seven patrons at the Rainbow Lounge early Sunday while conducting an alcoholic beverage code inspection of the bar. Witnesses to the event say the officers used excessive force – in some cases slamming patrons to the ground.

According to the Dallas Voice, one patron, Chad Gibson, is in intensive care for a head injury following the incident. Dozens of local residents protested at the county courthouse yesterday and the Fort Worth Police Department has issued a statement saying they are investigating the allegations internally.

Denver Dyke March 2009

Denver PrideFest's Family Field Day was host to the inaugural Denver Dyke March. Hundreds marched and thousands watched and screamed "whoo-hoo!"

Win a free trip to Las Vegas

Go to Passportmagazine.com to cast your vote for your favorite 'Vegas Excuse' video.

The winning video contestant will win a round trip for two including airfare and a three nights,two day stay on the strip and one lucky voter of the winning video will also win a round trip for two including airfare and a three nights, two day stay on the strip.

GLAAD issues statement on White House's Stonewall Commemoration

Jarrett Barrios, incoming President of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), today joined fellow lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender advocates as well as President Obama and Mrs. Obama at a reception to commemorate the Stonewall Riots of 1969 -- when patrons at a New York city gay bar fought back against police brutality and harassment and set in motion a wave of activism.

"It was an honor to take part in this important event for the gay and transgender community with fellow advocates and my 17-year old son," said Jarrett Barrios, incoming President of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation and former Massachusetts state Senator. "Today's event, the first time that Stonewall was commemorated by the White House, was a symbol of the fact that the administration recognizes our community at a time when there has been growing frustration about his administration's seeming reticence to follow through on campaign promises."

"During his speech today, President Obama said that the road to equality is not only about changing laws, but about changing hearts. Indeed, legal advances are vitally important, but full equality requires us to move our culture - through conversations, living openly in our communities, and through media representations- to a place where gay and transgender Americans are accepted and understood.

Our community will continue to advocate and will be watching closely to ensure Obama makes good on the promises he discussed today and during the campaign. At the heart of the issues discussed today are everyday Americans who want the same chance as everyone else to earn a living, be safe in their communities, serve their country, and take care of the ones they love."

Got plans for the 4th of July?

Now that PrideFest is out of the way it's time to start planning for 4th of July weekend.

Check out the 2009 Guide to Denver's 4th of July Celebrations and enjoy everything Denver has to offer for the 4th of July.

Pancakes!!!

Do not miss CAVP's 2nd Annual Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, July 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Washington Park United Church of Christ,400 South Williams Street in Denver. The $5-10 sliding scale cost goes to benefit the Colorado Anti-Violence Program.

The event will feature celebrity chefs from Colorado's LGBTQ/activist community including Paula Rice (TransAction), Tanya Mote (Su Teatro), Dylan Scholinski (Sent(a)mental Project), Matt Kailey (OutFront Colorado), Reynaldo Mireles (Colorado AIDS Project), Stefany Minor & Jessi Quizar (Incite! Women of Color Against Violence), TJ (Rainbow Alley Youth), Ashara Ekundayo (Blue and Yellow Logic), Faatma Mehrmanesh (Solar) and Mackenzie Roberts (Flobots).

Since 1986, the Colorado Anti-Violence Program (CAVP) has been dedicated to eliminating violence within and against the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) communities in Colorado, and providing the highest quality services to survivors. CAVP provides direct client services including crisis intervention, information, and referrals for LGBTQ victims of violence 24 hours a day.

Man, I love pancakes.

Denver PrideFest 2009: State Representative Mark Ferrandino

Another of Colorado's openly gay politicians, State Rep. Mark Ferrandino, was also on the scene yesterday at PrideFest.

I caught up with him at in the VIP area.

We are both Very Important People.

Him a little more so than me.

Denver PrideFest 2009: Senator Pat Steadman and partner Dave

Colorado's newest Senator, Pat Steadman and his adorable hubby Dave made the rounds yesterday at PrideFest.

Aren't they cute?

I've known Pat for years but, given his new position, wasn't sure it was appropriate to give him a big sweaty PrideFest hug and kiss.

He assured me it was ok.

Denver PrideFest 2009: 250,000 strong!

Just got word from The Center's Communications and Marketing Manager Heather Draper that they're estimating around 250,000 people attending Denver PrideFest over the weekend (Saturday being Family Field Day and Sunday the parade and festival).

Personally, I would have guessed the number even higher. Population density in Civic Center Park yesterday was unreal!

Enjoy some photos below:

Ladies love MileHighGayGuy!


Sexy mens! Is it just me or is that redhead in the black trunks something special? Mmm-mm-mm.


Sweet young things in their undercrackers!

More photos and posts to come as my hangover wears off.

Add your name to the list of people asking the Army not to fire Lt. Dan Choi for being gay

With just hours left until Lt. Choi's trial, an amazing 91,147 people have signed this letter of support asking the Army not to fire Lt. Choi for being gay.

It's important that Lt. Choi walks into the courtroom on Tuesday holding as many letters of support as possible. Add your name and tell your friends to do the same.

Lt. Choi writes:

On Tuesday at 8 a.m., I will stand trial for speaking three truthful words: "I am gay."

On Tuesday, I will face a panel of colonels who will decide whether or not to fire me -- to discharge me for "moral and professional dereliction" under the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.

On Tuesday, I will try to prove that it's not immoral to tell the truth.

As an infantry officer, an Iraq combat veteran and a West Point graduate with a degree in Arabic, I refuse to lie to my commanders. I refuse to lie to my peers. I refuse to lie to my subordinates.

My case requires that I provide personal testimony from people who can attest to my character. That's why several members of my military unit have written letters of support and offered to testify on my behalf.

Now I need your help. ANYONE who believes the Army should not fire me can take a stand right now. I am bringing a statement of support to Tuesday's trial and I need you to add your signature to it. Will you support me by signing this statement before Tuesday?

I want to thank the 141,262 people who have signed the "Don't Fire Dan" letter launched a few weeks ago by the Courage Campaign and CREDO Mobile to President Obama, asking him to take leadership to bring this tragic policy to an end.

The momentum is building. This week, 77 members of Congress signed a letter to the President citing my service as an example of why DADT should be repealed. And a Gallup poll was recently released showing that 69 percent of Americans -- including 58 percent of Republicans - favor allowing openly gay men and lesbian women to serve their country .

As I learned at West Point, deception and lies poison a unit and cripple a fighting force. That's why more than 70 of my fellow West Point graduates have also come out of the closet to join Knights Out, the organization I co-founded to build support for the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell".

The only way we will eventually overturn "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is by speaking up together. You can help me fight back right now by adding your name to my statement of support. On Tuesday morning, I will bring your signature -- and thousands of others -- to my trial as a demonstration of your collective support.

National security means many things, but the thing that makes us secure in our nation and homes is love. What makes me a better soldier, leader, Christian and human being is love. And I'm not going to hide my love.

Love is worth it.

Thank you for your support.

Denver PrideFest 2009: MileHighGayGuy and Matthew Rush

Whoo-hoo! Best PrideFest ever! I got to meet my dream man Matthew Rush. Man, he's a big boy. Mmm-mm-mm.

I guess I could have cropped out the Port-O-Potty in the background but I'm way too exhausted from Pride to work that hard.

To Kill A Mockingbird chosen as 2009's One Book, One Denver

Mayor John Hickenlooper has announced the result of the citizen vote on the 2009 One Book, One Denver selection. To Kill A Mockingbird is the winner, having received the largest percentage of votes from a pool of almost 2,000 voters who participated in the One Book, One Vote campaign that took place June 1 through June 15. The campaign allowed citizens to vote on their choice of 27 books via an online voting site.

As part of the book selection announcement, the Denver Office of Cultural Affairs (DOCA) revealed it has been chosen to receive a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to host The Big Read in Denver. DOCA is one of 269 nonprofits—including arts, culture, and science organizations, libraries and municipalities—to receive a grant to host a Big Read in 2009. The Big Read gives communities the opportunity to come together to read, discuss and celebrate one of numerous selections from U.S. and world literature.


DOCA has conducted a community reading project, One Book, One Denver, each of the past five years. This year, DOCA will combine One Book, One Denver with the NEA’s Big Read. The combined program will officially launch September 1 and run through October. During that time, copies of To Kill a Mockingbird will be available for check-out at all Denver Public Library branches and sold in local bookstores. The program will feature activities such as read-a-thons, book discussions, lectures, movie screenings and performing arts events.

The amount of DOCA’s Big Read grant is $20,000, which will serve to promote and carry out the program. As a grantee, DOCA will also receive free, high-quality educational materials for distribution to support the community in enjoying To Kill a Mockingbird, including Reader’s, Teacher’s and Audio Guides.

“The public deserves kudos for picking this timeless American classic,” Hickenlooper said. “To Kill a Mockingbird speaks to social issues still relevant in 2009, while showing us that human goodness perseveres even in hard times.”

The Big Read is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts designed to restore reading to the center of American culture. The NEA presents The Big Read in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and in cooperation with Arts Midwest. Support for The Big Read is provided by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Transportation for The Big Read is provided by Ford.

“The Big Read highlights not only literature, but also what can be accomplished in partnership,” said NEA Acting Chairman Patrice Walker Powell. “I’m grateful to the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Arts Midwest and the many, many nonprofits, local governments and media outlets around the country that have partnered with the NEA to present hundreds of Big Read projects nationwide. We welcome our new community partners to The Big Read family and look forward to continuing this transformative dialogue between neighbors and across borders.”

For more information about The Big Read please visit www.neabigread.org.




US ban on HIV-positive visitors and immigrants to end?

The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, responded to the Office of Management and Budget indicating that they have completed review of a proposed regulation which would remove the remaining barrier to HIV-positive visitors and immigrants. The proposal, which OMB indicates would remove HIV from the list of communicable diseases that bar foreign nationals from entering the United States, is expected to be published on Tuesday, June 30, in the Federal Register and open for a period of public comment. After reviewing those comments, the Department of Health and Human Services will issue a final regulation.

“We are one important step closer to finally ending this discriminatory ban once and for all,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “This regulation is unnecessary, ineffective and lacks any public health justification. We are confident that this sad chapter in our nation’s treatment of people with HIV and AIDS will soon be closed.”



In July 2008, President Bush signed into law, as part of the reauthorization of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a provision that removed the ban from statute and returned regulatory authority to the Secretary of Health and Human Services to determine whether HIV should remain on a list of communicable diseases that bar foreign nationals from entering the United States.

HRC has been a lead organization lobbying on Capitol Hill for the statutory repeal and working to ensure that Department of Health and Human Services’ regulations were changed. The Human Rights Campaign worked closely with the offices of Senator John Kerry (D-MA) and former Senator Gordon Smith (R-OR), as well as Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), the sponsors of the effort in Congress last year to repeal the ban. Since passage of the PEPFAR bill, HRC has lobbied both the Bush and Obama administrations to remove the remaining regulatory ban.

The current travel and immigration ban prohibits HIV-positive foreign nationals from entering the U.S. unless they obtain a special waiver, which is difficult to obtain and can only allow for short-term travel. Current policy also prevents the vast majority of foreign nationals with HIV from obtaining legal permanent residency in the United States. The ban originated in 1987, and was explicitly codified by Congress in 1993, despite efforts in the public health community to remove the ban when Congress reformed U.S. immigration law in the early 1990s. While immigration law currently excludes foreigners with any “communicable disease of public health significance” from entering the U.S., only HIV was explicitly named in the statute.




CAVP looking for Queer Youth Violence Prevention Project Manager (say that five times fast!)

The Colorado Anti-Violence Program is looking for a part-time Queer Youth Violence Prevention Project Manager. Details on how to apply are after the jump. 


Queer Youth Violence Prevention Project Manager
Applications due by July 10, 2009

The Colorado Anti-Violence Program (CAVP) is a grassroots organization led by activists committed to addressing the root causes of violence. As we enter our 23rd year of operation, we continue our collective efforts to create an organization with a broader vision for social justice. Founded in 1986, CAVP addresses the pervasive problems of violence committed within and against LGBTQ communities including domestic violence, sexual assault, hate violence, HIV-related violence and police misconduct. CAVP also provides community education, outreach, technical assistance, training, and education for community organizations, law enforcement, and mainstream service providers on violence issues affecting the LGBTQ community.

TO APPLY:
Submit resume and a cover letter of no more than two pages, in which you respond to the following question:


Why are you passionate about preventing violence in the LGBTQ community and/or youth community?

SEND TO: cavpsearch@gmail.com

Applications must be received no later than July 10, 2009.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Position Status
Position is a 0.5 FTE and is supervised by the Director of Training and Education.

Position Summary
This position is responsible for managing the Queer Youth Violence Prevention Project including conducting a community readiness assessment, managing the project's community advisory board and working collaboratively with the Director of Training and Education to complete the community profile, strategic plan and implement data collection efforts. The goal of the project is to develop and expand sexual violence primary prevention activities in LGBTQ communities across Colorado. Position responsibilities This position is funded by the Sexual Assault Prevention Program of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Training will be provided on conducting community readiness assessments.

Reports to: Director of Training and Education
Wage: $17.31 an hour
Benefits - Paid time off prorated to percentage of full time work week
Flexible Schedule - Some evenings/weekends and some travel around the state.

Required Qualifications

Experience with community outreach and organizing (volunteer or paid).

Experience with or knowledge of issues impacting LGBTQ community, youth and/or communities of color.
Ability to effectively manage and motivate a community advisory board.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Commitment to building a strong, multicultural movement for social change.
Ability to maintain appropriate professional boundaries with regard to the handling of confidential information and maintain professional standards of conduct.
Computer proficiency in word processing, spread sheets, some graphics, and internet.
Ability to work with a team in a high-stress environment.
Ability to work occasional weekends and evenings and to travel to meetings around the state, if necessary.
Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge and experience with youth violence prevention education.

Strong knowledge of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer issues and other social justice issues.
Experience conducting community readiness assessments.
Bicultural/Bilingual in Spanish (verbal and written skills)
Experience in victim advocacy work or crisis intervention (volunteer or paid).
Familiarity with Colorado community resources and organizations.
Position Responsibilities

Conduct a community readiness assessment in selected pilot LGBTQ communities around the state. This assessment will include identifying and interviewing key respondents and transcribing interviews.
Oversee the quantitative scoring of interviews to determine level of community readiness to prevent sexual violence.
Manage community advisory board including coordinating and participating in bi-monthly meetings and providing support for board work groups.
Assist the Director of Training and Education in recruiting community advisory board members including identifying potential members and cultivating relationships with them.
Assist the Director of Training and Education in completing a data analysis on sexual violence in the LGBTQ community.
Assist the Director of Training and Education in developing the strategic plan for the project.
EOE: The Colorado Anti-Violence Program is a project of the Colorado Nonprofit Development Center (CNDC). CNDC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. CAVP encourages inquiries from people of color, women, people with disabilities, low-income people, and people of transgender experience.


Denver PrideFest 2009: Family Field Day

Just got in from a very full day at Denver PrideFest's Family Field Day. What an amazing time.

I'm ready to hit the sack but check out the following photos (plenty more to come!)and make sure to check out the PrideFest Parade tomorrow which starts at 9:30 at Cheesman Park, and makes its way down Colfax to Civic Center Park where the PrideFest festival will be in full swing from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.


The fabulous Shelvis!


The adorable Brodin!


The brightly colored Deb Pollack!


The super-cute Super Altar Boy!

We entered Interactive Male's Big Gay Kiss Contest together. He's a good kisser.


The hardest working man at PrideFest, Fred Sainz!

Be sure to find out all about The Rights 5!

Today is National HIV Testing Day!

Today President Obama issued the following statement regarding National HIV Testing Day:

On this 14th commemoration of National HIV Testing Day, I urge Americans to take control of their own health – and protect those they love – by getting tested for HIV and working to reduce HIV transmission.

One in five Americans currently living with HIV – more than 230,000 people – do not know they have the disease, and the majority of sexually transmitted infections are spread by people who are unaware of their status. But studies show that once people learn they are infected, they take steps to reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to others.

Despite advances in treatment, HIV remains a major threat to the health of our nation. While its impacts are not evenly spread – infection rates are particularly high among gay and bisexual men, African Americans and Latinos – when one of our fellow citizens becomes infected with HIV every nine-and-a-half minutes, the epidemic affects all Americans.

That is why I have pledged to develop and implement a comprehensive National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) that will focus on reducing HIV incidence, increasing access to care, and reducing HIV-related health disparities. The National HIV/AIDS Strategy will also increase awareness, and promote greater investment in preventing and treating HIV/AIDS in the U.S. And it will include measurable goals, timelines, and accountability mechanisms; rely on sound science; and build on programs and practices that work.

But government can only do so much. Each of us must take responsibility for reducing our risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV and for supporting affected individuals and communities. This means getting tested for HIV and working to end the stigma and discrimination people living with HIV face. It means embracing all of our neighbors, gay and straight. And it means responding with compassion to people dealing with addictions and others issues that place them at increased risk for HIV infection. Working together, I am confident that we can stop the spread of HIV and ensure that those affected get the care and support they need.

Happy Pride!!! Denver PrideFest starts today

Denver PrideFest weekend starts today with Family Field Day at Civic Center Park. Come on down for lots of family-friendly fun. Be sure to stop by the MileHighGayGuy booth on Sponsor's Row as you enjoy everything the day has to offer. I always get a kick out of the Doggie Drag Show.

For more information on where to go and what to do for PrideFest check out:

DenverPrideFest.blogspot.com
GLBTColorado.org
OutFrontColorado.com

Joe Biden "not unaware" of LGBT dissatisfaction with administration, promises action

Gawker reports on a recent Joe Biden appearance in which he promised "the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act and Don't Ask, Don't Tell, the passage of the Lieberman-Baldwin bill on health benefits, a ban on workplace discrimination, adoption rights for all and an end to the HIV travel ban."

Film on the Rocks: Princess Bride

Escape to Red Rocks for the next installment of Film on the Rocks, a fantastical showing of Rob Reiner's evergreen classic 'Princess Bride', Tuesday, June 30.

Carbon Leaf will get things going prior to the film. Following their performance Chuck Roy will introduce several very important sponsors, and treat the audience with another text-to-win chance at an Xbox 360 entertainment system.

40 years later, Feds apologize for firing openly gay man

Pioneering activist Frank Kameny, who in 1957 was fired from his federal civil service job for being gay, has received an official apology from John Berry, the out director of the Office of Personnel Management, on behalf of the U.S. government.

"Please accept our apology for the consequences of the previous policy of the United States government," Berry writes in the letter.

40 years since Stonewall

With the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall uprising on Sunday, the event's impact on the LGBT-rights movement is in the news. Newsweek features a special section looking back at its coverage of the event, including a timeline of the LGBT-rights movement.

Boyce Avenue comes to Denver

Boyce Avenue (the #9 most subscribed artist on YouTube (200K+ subscribers), in between Taylor Swift (#8) and Linkin Park (#10) – with over 100 million views on the site. Additionally, Boyce Avenue has received over six million MySpace plays (12,000+ daily average)will begin their first major U.S. tour this summer with a stop in Denver on July 6 at The Soiled Dove.

Manscaping Fail

see more Fail Blog
Still, I've seen worse.

Matthew Shepard Foundation refuses donation from Perez Hilton

The Matthew Shepard Foundation has just released a statement regarding reports that Perez Hilton had plans to donate proceeds from his lawsuit against the manager of the Black Eyed Peas.

They have refused the offer.

Read all about it after the jump.


The Matthew Shepard Foundation was surprised to learn this morning via media reports that blogger Perez Hilton (Mario Lavandeira) has announced he plans to donate, to our organization, the proceeds of a lawsuit he is contesting over an altercation which has been widely reported in recent days.

We had no advance notice or contact from Mr. Hilton or his representatives regarding this proposal, nor any communication since he posted this plan to his website.

We do not know the details of the lawsuit, whether it has been filed, the nature of his claims or the likely outcome. But because the lawsuit presumably involves the physical attack prompted by Mr. Hilton's admitted use of an anti-gay slur, the Foundation will be unable to accept any funds obtained in such a manner.

We very much appreciate the generosity of the offer to support our continuing work to memorialize Matthew through activism in defense of sexual minorities and in favor of understanding, compassion, and acceptance. But because so much of our work involves education to reduce the use of hateful language against gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered persons, or those so perceived, it would be inappropriate for us to benefit financially from circumstances in which such a verbal attack was involved.

While we applaud Mr. Hilton's apology to the LGBT community and their loved ones for his use of such a slur, we also feel compelled to point out that use of epithets can often lead to physical violence, as it appears it may have in this case, and that the Matthew Shepard Foundation has worked for more than 10 years to bring to people's attention the consequences of hateful or inolerant language.

Judy Shepard
Chair, MSF Governing Board



Eden Lane: This is MileHighGayGuy (and In Focus)

The lovely and talented Eden Lane hosts a new arts and entertainment show called 'In Focus' on Denver's KBDI Channel 12 every Sunday. Her first show features an interview with Colorado's Gov. Bill Ritter. Don't miss it!

Tickets for Bear to Make a Difference 2009 on sale now

Tickets are on sale now for Bear to Make a Difference.

The official kick-off and Table Captain event for the 8th Annual Bear To Make a Difference Gala takes place Wednesday, July 15 at 6 p.m. at HW Home at The Village at The Landmark. To RSVP call 1-877-519-7904 ext. 10.

Senate holds hearing on hate crimes

The Human Rights Campaign, the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, today thanked the Senate Judiciary Committee for holding a hearing on the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act (S. 909). The legislation, which was passed in the U.S. House by a vote of 249-175 in April, would provide local police and sheriff’s departments with federal resources to combat hate violence. The hearing included an appearance by Attorney General Eric Holder, the first time an Attorney General has testified in favor of this legislation, and written testimony from Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. To read the testimony visit: www.HRCBackStory.org.

“We appreciate the Senate for holding this hearing and urge action on hate crimes legislation before the August recess,” said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “After more than a decade and nine successful votes in Congress, there is no good reason for any delay on bringing this bill to the President’s desk. Too many families have been devastated by hate violence. We must finally pass this bill and start the important steps to erasing hate in our country.”

More after the jump.


The Matthew Shepard Act gives the Justice Department the power to investigate and prosecute bias motivated violence where the perpetrator has selected the victim because of the person's actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. It provides the Justice Department with the ability to aid state and local jurisdictions either by lending assistance or, where local authorities are unwilling or unable, by taking the lead in investigations and prosecutions of violent crime resulting in death or serious bodily injury that were motivated by bias. It also makes grants available to state and local communities to combat violent crimes committed by juveniles, train law enforcement officers, or to assist in state and local investigations and prosecutions of bias motivated crimes.

Because there is no federal law mandating states and municipalities to report hate crimes, they are often underreported. However, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s own statistics, based on voluntary reporting, show that since 1991 over 100,000 hate crime offenses have been reported to the FBI, with 7,624 reported in 2007, the FBI’s most recent reporting period. Violent crimes based on sexual orientation constituted 16.6 percent of all hate crimes in 2007, with 1,265 reported for the year. In addition, while not captured in the federal statistics, transgender Americans too often live in fear of violence.

There have been nine successful votes on the Matthew Shepard Act. It was previously introduced in the 110th Congress by Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA) and offered as an amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization (DoD) bill. After a successful 60-39 vote to prevent a filibuster, the Matthew Shepard Act was adopted by voice vote and added to the DoD bill. The hate crimes provision was later not included in the final version of the DoD bill.

Working in coalition with the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, the Human Rights Campaign continues to mobilize its members to pass this legislation. The website www.FightHateNow.org gives users opportunities to contact their member of Congress, watch video testimonials on hate crimes and learn the truth about the legislation. The site will continue as a clearinghouse for information throughout the Senate action on the legislation.e



MileHighHotGuy: Cliff diver at Casa Bonita

Just one more good reason to go to Casa Bonita.

The uncanny gay relationships of the X-Men

Uncannyxmen.net has a cool chart mapping out the romantic relationship of the X-Men including the lifelong lesbian relationship between Mystique and Destiny, lesbian flirtation between Storm and Yukio, Karma's unrequited lesbian crush on Shadowcat, Anole and Graymallkin's gay hookups, and Iceman's crush on the dual-gendered Cloud.

However, there's no mention of Rictor's and Shatterstar's more-than-a-bromance, or of Multiple Man's gay and bisexual selves (above).

And most strangely, unless I'm just not seeing him there, there's no mention at all of the most famous gay X-Man of all Northstar (left).

Still, it's fun stuff. - via Boing Boing

Tonight on Studio 12: The LGBT community reacts to the Obama administration's progress (or lack therof) on gay issues

I'll be part of a panel appearing on 'Studio 12 with Tamara Banks' tonight at 8 p.m. to discuss the LGBT community's feelings about the progress or lack of progress on LGBT issues in the Obama administration.

It's a live call-in show so feel free to give a holler at 303-296-1253 and make your thoughts known.

Rapids doubleheader today

Rapids host a huge doubleheader tomorrow night at Dick's Sporting Goods Park! It’s the Rapids vs. FC Dallas at 7:30pm, and fans can also arrive early for a special women's professional match: the Colorado Force vs. WPS side NY/NJ Sky Blue at 4:30pm. One ticket gets fans into both games tomorrow!

For the full match preview of tomorrow's event, featuring interactive projected lineups, insider game notes, head-to-head stats, the latest injury and suspension reports, as well as details on all the promotions taking place at the stadium, click here.

Cast your vote for the Denver Broncos' 50th Anniversary Dream Team

The 2009 NFL season marks the 50th anniversary of the Denver Broncos. To commemorate the past while embracing the future, the franchise is recognizing its community of fans who have been an integral part of Broncos Country during the first 50 seasons.

As a part of the celebration, fans have the opportunity to select their choice for the All-Time Denver Broncos Team through an online voting tool. Voting began June 6, and can be completed by clicking here. Voting concludes Sept. 4.

No charges for gay Mayor Sam Adams in Breedlove case

A report from the Oregon Attorney General finds that because of "serious questions about the credibility of Breedlove's account" of his relationship with Portland Mayor Sam Adams there is "insufficient evidence to charge, let alone convict, Adams with illegal sexual contact with a minor."

Census 2010 to list same-sex marriages, unions

Under a plan being developed by the White House, same-sex marriages, civil unions and domestic partnerships are set to be included in the 2010 U.S. Census. Currently, same-sex relationships are listed in census figures in the broader "unmarried partners" category. The Obama administration reportedly doesn't believe the Defense of Marriage Act would preclude the measurement of data on marriages and other same-sex unions.

HUD celebrates gay pride month

From the White House:

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan and Deputy Secretary Ron Sims joined Congressman Barney Frank today in hosting the first event in twelve years to recognize HUD Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered (LGBT) employees.

"At HUD, we not only want the unique differences every employee brings to the workplace - to fulfill our mission of providing safe, affordable housing to every American, we absolutely need them," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. "Whether it is federal benefits that celebrate the values of all families, a tough non-discrimination policy that ensures we at HUD are respectful to one another, or a Diversity Council that ensures our department represents a broad cross-section of America, HUD is committed to making sure our LGBT community not only recognizes that they are welcome at HUD - but are essential to everything we do."



This celebration occurred less than a week after President Obama signed a Memorandum regarding Federal Benefits and Non-Discrimination. This historic memorandum authorizes the Office of Personnel Management to extend benefits to same-sex domestic partners that do not require legislative change, like long-term care insurance for same-sex domestic partners of federal employees. This memorandum paves the way for equality for the government's dedicated public servants who have been denied basic rights on the basis of their sexual orientation.

To implement the President's memorandum, Secretary Donovan has ordered that for the next 90 days HUD leadership teams conduct a review on where HUD can extend federal benefits to employees with same sex partners. Additionally, the Secretary signed a non-discrimination policy that expressly discusses non-discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation from all HUD program offices making it easier to develop solutions to employees' potential questions and concerns. Finally, HUD has created a Diversity Council that will ensure that there is coordination and accountability in HUD's efforts to continue to attract and retain a diverse pool of talented employees.

In his speech, Secretary Donovan referenced progress on LGBT issues at the department: "In 1993 HUD welcomed the first openly lesbian or gay public official whose appointment to a federal position was confirmed by the United States Senate: Roberta Achtenberg, who served our country and our department as Assistant Secretary here at HUD. That tradition will be furthered by two nominees currently before the US Senate: Raphael Bostic, nominated to be Assistant Secretary for Policy Development, and Research and Mercedes Márquez, our nominee for Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development."

Eddie Eitches, President of AFGE Local 476, noted that in 1990 HUD and AFGE successfully negotiated a non-discrimination clause that went beyond Federal statutes: "No discrimination will be tolerated on the basis of sexual preference and or orientation." In addition, the contractual definition of family member includes those "related by affinity whose close association with an employee is the equivalent of a family relationship." AFGE supports efforts to provide complete equality for HUD's GLBT employees as well as those who benefit from HUD programs.


The gay marriage debate made simple

Check out Patrick Farley's gay marriage debate flowchart. - via Boing Boing

Should condoms be required at porn shoots?

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation held a press conference recently to say that the Los Angeles County Health Department should require the use of condoms during the filming of adult movies in light of a spate of HIV infections of mostly-straight pornstars.

What do you think?

Quote of the Day: Chuniya Devi

"I learned that the more you suffer silently, the more your oppressor will oppress you," - Chuniya Devi, member of India's Pink Gang

Manhunt promotes National HIV Testing Day this Saturday, June 27

David S. Novak, Senior Public Health Strategist, at Online Buddies, Inc., the parent company of MANHUNT, announced today that MANHUNT will promote an innovative HIV testing campaign during this year’s National HIV Testing Day. On June 27, nearly 1.5 million MANHUNT members will be educated about five easy ways to get tested for HIV.

“It’s estimated that at least 25% of persons in the U.S. who are living with HIV don’t know their status. Recent research* suggests that 85% of men who have never tested for HIV report they are HIV-negative online,” said Novak. Novak said this campaign, which highlights AIDS.gov National HIV Testing Day activities and new corporate partner GetSTDtested.com, follows the success of February’s National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and 2008 World AIDS Day promotions.


More after the jump.

“We need to think differently about how we encourage men to test for HIV and other STDs. In the old days HIV testing was about fear, stigma and death. Today, HIV testing should be natural, normal and about life. MANHUNT has made huge strides in HIV/STD education and prevention as well as moving interventions online. Our company is proud to be part of this innovative work and to offer private online testing for HIV and seven common STDs to MANHUNT members at a discount,” said Tracey Powell, CEO of GetSTDtested.com.

MANHUNT is the first website to allow health outreach organizations to interact with members and offer a series of online HIV prevention videos aimed at encouraging members to verbally disclose and/or test for HIV. Through a partnership with Dr. Mary Ann Chiasson, Vice President at Public Health Solutions, MANHUNT approved a study allowing members to validate an online video intervention entitled “HIV Big Deal.”

Dr. Chiasson supports broad-based targeted messages to members reminding them to get tested. “MANHUNT has and continues to be an industry leader with promoting HIV/STD prevention. This campaign again sets this company ahead of all others,” said Dr. Chiasson. On World AIDS Day 2008, MANHUNT teamed up with Public Health Solutions, New York University and In the Life Media to promote the “HIV Big Deal” video series through a multi-media campaign on MANHUNT. Mr. Novak will present results of this campaign later this month at the International Society of STD Research Conference in London, England and at the National HIV Prevention Conference and the National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media in Atlanta, GA in August.

“We have long worked with public health departments to facilitate sexually transmitted infection prevention,” said Adam Segel, MANHUNT’s CEO. “Creating new partnerships that educate our members about new ways to test - specifically at-home, in-lab and online-based testing - along with traditional testing strategies, helps our members know their options,” says Segel.

Dr. Keith Horvath, from the University of Minnesota agrees. “The first step to diminish the impact of HIV in our communities is for men and women to be tested for HIV and, for those who test positive, to get into appropriate care so they can live long and healthy lives. Studies consistently show that the vast majority of persons who test HIV-positive take active measures to reduce sexual risk for themselves and their partners.”

To learn more visit www.MANHUNTCARES.com/gettested or www.getSTDtested.com/MANHUNTCARES.




Hey, gay college students! Take this survey and you could win a free RSVP cruise

Do you consider your campus to be gay-friendly?

Does your campus have work to be done on transgender issues? What does it mean to be a lesbian, gay, bisexual or a transgender (LGBT) student, staff, or faculty member on your campus? No matter your experience Campus Pride wants to hear from LGBT students, faculty, staff and administrators. Participation is confidential and data specific to higher education institutions will not be identified in the final analysis.

National trends and experiences from the study will be shared biannually as a way to better understand LGBT needs and render informed decisions on policies, programs and practices impacting LGBT campus life. To be released in 2010, the national report will be compiled in a research summary of findings from Campus Pride titled the "State of Higher Education for LGBT People."

Take the survey and you could win a free RSVP cruise or $500.