Denver New Year's Eve 2011: NYE at Tracks

You want things to do in Denver when you're gay and it's New Year's Eve? You got it!

Check out NYE at Tracks with DJ Roland Belmares and Miss Nina Flowers.

I find Tracks a way more appealing place to be now that they've remodeled a bit and opened the place up. No longer do you feel like you're constantly in danger of dying in a Cocoanut Grove type incident.

Denver New Year's Eve 2011: Aphrodisiac

You want things to do in Denver when you're gay and it's New Year's Eve? You got it!

Check out Aphrodisiac tonight with three of my favorite DJs in Denver - Tatiana, Rockstar Aaron, and Ken-E.

There'll be beds.

Beds, I said.

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MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Spay Today

Did you know that animal shelters in the Denver metro area euthanize at least 40,000 cats, dogs, puppies and kittens each year, simply because they were born into a world where there are not enough homes? 

SpayToday’s mission is to eliminate euthanasia and reduce pet overpopulation by providing high quality, low cost spay and neuter surgeries for cats, dogs, and rabbits.

New Year's Eve 2011: Fireworks over Downtown Denver!

The sky will once again sparkle over the 16^th Street Mall at the close of 2010 with Downtown's New Year’s Eve Fireworks.  The two spectacular fireworks shows will occur at 9 p.m. and midnight. For the best viewpoints, stand along the 16^th Street Mall.

Costumed entertainers will interact with crowds between shows, including magicians, mascots, balloon artists, stilt walkers, comedians and more.

Everyone rides free on Denver's public transportation from 7 p.m. on New Year's Eve to 6 a.m. on New Year's Day. Get more info at www.rtd-denver.com.

Please note, between 8 p.m. and 1 a.m., RTD Light Rail trains will not cross the 16^th Street Mall and mall ride shuttles will stop temporarily during the two fireworks shows.

Be safe! If you are celebrating with alcohol this holiday season, plan ahead before you party.  Park your car in an overnight lot, take a cab or public transportation or designate a sober driver before anyone takes a sip.

Top 10 Shirtless Moments of 2010

From the 'True Blood' Rolling Stone cover to Mark Paul Gosselaar's rough sex scene in 'Weeds' - not to mention plenty of Matthew Morrisson and Zac Effron thrown in just because - Best Week Ever presents their 10 Favorite Shirtless Moments of 2010.

Gays gone by

Experience the fabulous fashions, the delightful dancing, and what the narrator calls "the underlying sadness" in this look inside a gay and lesbian club of the late 1950s or early 1960s from Jacopetti's film 'Women of the World'.

This January, on In The Life

This month IN THE LIFE reveals hidden treasures in LGBT history which, unknown to many, have had lasting impact in shaping our lives. In the Smithsonian's historic and controversial Hide/Seek exhibit, sexual expression and desire in American Art is viewed in a new way. And, we delve into the sexually charged, fiercely liberated, and fascinating life of Samuel Steward. (Watch the online PREMIERE on January 1st.)

MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: The Alexander Foundation

The Alexander Foundation exists to enhance the lives of gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgendered people by providing financial assistance to those in need throughout Colorado. The Alexander Foundation is an all-volunteer organization whose mission is to build a community of strength and dignity.

Chris Brown's homophobic Twitter feud with Raz B

Salon reports on a homophobic Twitter feud between Rihanna's ex Chris Brown (who recently finished a yearlong domestic violence course) and singer Raz B that includes cruel references to Raz B's alleged childhood sexual abuse at the hands of his former manager.

Wow, just when you think a person can't sink any lower than being a woman beater, he goes and makes fun of rape victims.

Jobs: Social Media Intern for Denver Element

The Denver ELEMENT is looking to fill an interview position to assist the group with their ever-growing social media needs.They're looking for a minimum three-month commitment and you can send your resume and cover letter to sean@thedenverelement.com to be considered for the position.

Quote of the Day: R. Clarke Cooper

"I'm not looking for a hug here." - R. Clarke Cooper, executive director of Log Cabin Republicans, speaking about how his group expects to work with Republicans who aren't necessarily in favor of LGBT equality, as quoted by The Bilerico Project

Top 10 gay films of 2010

Windy City Times' Richard Knight, Jr. shares his list of the Top 10 LGBT Films of 2010.

Casting call for Sundance Channel's 'Girls Who Like Boys Who Like Boys' at Boyztown

Whew, long headline. Anyways. If your New Year's Resolution is to be a STAR then you might want to head on down to the open casting call for the Sundance Channel's 'Girls Who Like Boys Who Like Boys' on New Year's Ever from 7-10 pm at Boyztown. I’m working with the Sundance Channel on a casting call for the hit series Girls Who Like Boys Who Like Boys.

The show is looking for fabulous gals and their gay best friends so come dressed to impress and share your stories.  Hair and makeup will be provided and you can RSVP to the event at GWLBWLBDenver@gmail.com.

MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains provides services for gay men in the Denver metro area including STD Testing and Treatment, HIV Testing and Education, Prostate and Testicular Cancer Screenings, and Education and Referrals.

It's a boy for Elton John and David Furnish

Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com

Elton John and his husband, David Furnish, welcomed Zachary Jackson Levon Furnish-John into the world on Christmas Day.

Advocate announces its "Newsmakers of the Year" list

Rep. Patrick Murphy, D-Pa., columnist Dan Savage (pictured), Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, Fort Worth City Councilman Joel Burns and California Judge Victoria Kolakowski are included on Advocate.com's list of the year's top figures in LGBT news.

The sexiest Senator faces a backlash over "don't ask, don't tell" repeal vote

Sen. Scott Brown, R-Mass., (pictured above in a nude Cosmopolitan spread he posed for as a sexy young 22-year old in 1982) could face a primary challenge in his bid to retain his seat, conservative activists say. Some social conservatives and tea party groups are upset with Brown's votes on issues such as the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell."

Conservatives groups to boycott CPAC because of gay participants

Two prominent socially conservative organizations have announced they won't attend the Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington, D.C., in February because the gay conservative group GOProud is an official participant. Some activists say the American Conservative Union, the organization behind CPAC, has "gone libertarian," accusing it of trying to jettison organizations opposed to gay rights.

Free music download: Melody Zephyr - Hello Kitty Rap Pack

Click here for a free song about Hello Kitty. It's not a very good song but at least it's a free song.

Republican leaders sign letter backing anti-gay groups

Incoming House Speaker John Boehner (pictured) and other leading Republicans have signed on to a letter protesting the inclusion of some top anti-gay organizations on a list of hate groups compiled by the Southern Poverty Law Center. 

Signatories said they supported the groups' free speech rights, but SPLC officials countered that groups such as the Family Research Council go too far when they use falsehoods to demonize gays and lesbians.

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Behind the Scenes Video: Signing Repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell

See what it was like on and behind the scenes of the recent signing of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal of 2010.

Quote of the Day: Joel Burns

It has instilled a sense of who I am at 41 that was not present to prior to the 12th of October. It makes me much less afraid." - Joel Burns, city councilman of Fort Worth, Texas, speaking about the reaction to his widely viewed speech about being a young, closeted gay teen facing bullying, as quoted in The Dallas Voice"

Harvey Milk's family seeks to trademark his name and likeness

The family of Harvey Milk is seeking to trademark the use of Milk's name and image for certain uses by for-profit organizations, but intends to continue to allow worthy nonprofits to use the gay rights leader's likeness without charge, according to this article.

Obama's changing views on gay marriage a 'game changer'?

President Barack Obama's indication last week that his views on marriage equality may not be written in stone is already significant, but if Obama eventually announced that he supported marriage rights for same-sex couples, it could be a "game changer," advocates say. Obama, who has long supported legal civil unions, said he now realizes this arrangement is not enough for many gay and lesbian couples.

OutBoard returns to Crested Butte for 2011

Grab your snowboard (or skis) and get ready for OutBoard 2011, as the event returns to Crested Butte, CO, March 29-April 3, 2011.

Recently named the "Most Laid Back" and "Most Affordable Gay & Lesbian Ski Week" by TripOutGayTravel, attendees can get all five breakfasts, two dinners including the private Last Tracks Dinner with a nighttime descent of Mt Crested Butte, and three parties including the Outboard Closing Party all for $325.00.

“The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations.  “We have a blast socializing and hanging out,  but save something for the freshies the next morning to show our Outboard buddies our stuff!”

OutBoard focuses on fun, well organized events, both on and off the ski hill and creating a great place to meet like-minded, fun-loving snowboarders and skiers.  Crested Butte is a beautiful mountain and great town to fall in love with.  It has awesome restaurants, clubs and bars to meet other OutBoard attendees or be welcomed by the locals. 

OutBoard is also very happy to announce that they have partnered with the Adaptive Sports Center in Crested Butte as the non-profit beneficiary for this year's event. The proceeds from bar sales at the Adventure Park event, will be benefiting the Adaptive Sports Center. The Adaptive Sports Center improves the quality of life of people with disabilities through outdoor adventure activities.

Passport's 2011 International Gay Ski Weeks Calendar

Passport's annual Gay Ski Calendar brings you all the cool details about what's hot on the slopes: après ski parties, film festivals, fashion shows, costumed galas, and lots, lots more.

Free music download: Avril Lavigne - What The Hell

Starting the New Year off celebrating her new single, Avril Lavigne will follow the broadcast debut of “What The Hell” by giving fans a free download of the song via her official Facebook page for 48 hours starting, on January 1, 2011.   

Fans can go to facebook.com/avrillavigne and 'Like' Avril to have access to the free download which will be available after midnight!   

Avril will debut her new single on New Year’s Eve during “Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve broadcast celebration on ABC.

Seattle to Host First Ever West Coast LGBT Tourism Summit

Following the success of the Greater Seattle Business Association’s Travel Gay Seattle initiative, Seattle will host LGBT Chambers of Commerce, convention and visitor bureaus, travel planners and chamber businesses at the first West Coast LGBT Tourism Summit, January 6-8.

Glenn Johnson, President of Horizon Airlines, will deliver the keynote speech and experts from leading market research, public relations and social media firms such as Nyhus Communications, Community Marketing, Inc. and Pink Banana Media will host sessions on developing a successful inbound tourism initiative.

The 2011 West Coast LGBT Tourism Summit will focus on providing tools for attendees to attract LGBT tourism to their city. By following GSBA’s lead of forming partnerships with private and public organizations, local travel organizations can bolster the LGBT tourism industry in their area. Sessions at the summit include a city by city status report delivered by each participating chamber or region, information on how to develop a local LGBT visitors guide, utilize technology, and how to market and brand a city or region. Event sponsor include Alaska Airlines, Boeing, USBank and the Seattle Renaissance Hotel.

GSBA’s travel portal, Travel Gay Seattle, allows travelers to book their plane or train tickets and hotel stay, as well as find restaurants, shopping, and unique neighborhoods. By developing similar initiatives on the west coast, tourism professionals hope to create a regional community for LGBT travelers.

“LGBT Tourism is an essential component of the West Coast economy. Some of the top gay and lesbian popular destinations in the world are located in western North America drawing hundreds of thousands of LGBT travelers from around the world every year,” said David Paisley Community Marketing Inc. “In addition LGBT events such as Pride are often the biggest public events in their communities, and attract participants far and wide.”

To launch Travel Gay Seattle, GSBA partnered with Seattle-based Alaska Airlines, a company with a reputation for flexibility and outstanding service, as well as an established reputation for LGBT-friendly travel. Additional support came from the City of Seattle’s Office of Economic Development and Sound Transit, a regional network of commuter rail, light rail, express buses, and local transit resources. Corporate sponsors include Sheraton Seattle Hotel, Amtrak and American Airlines.

“LGBTQ Tourism is estimated to be an $84 billion industry and Seattle is poised to attract a significant portion of that revenue, said Jerome Bader, GSBA Director of Marketing & External Relations. “Seattle has the 2nd largest percentage of openly LGBTQ citizens in the United States, scenic beauty that cannot be matched, restaurants, a wine industry that is unparalleled and metropolitan communities that are open and welcoming to all. Currently Seattle is ranked number 9 in the top 20 LGBTQ tourism destinations, I want to be in the top 5!”

MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains provides services for gay men in the Denver metro area including STD Testing and Treatment, HIV Testing and Education, Prostate and Testicular Cancer Screenings, and Education and Referrals.

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Marky Mark shirtless

Lookin' all-righty in his tighty whiteys! Hot on the heels of the recent Jake Gyllenhaal and Ryan Reynolds shirtless retrospectives comes a collection of good old Marky Mark Wahlberg's hottest and nakedest courtesy of Tabloid Prodigy.

Books: Beyond Normal - The Birth of Gay Pride

'BEYOND NORMAL: THE BIRTH of GAY PRIDE' is the title of a new book by pioneer gay liberation activist Gale Chester Whittington (pictured right). His memoir chronicles his teenage suicide attempt while living in Denver and then moves on to his pivotal role in the real beginning of the gay liberation movement in the San Francisco in the late 1960s before returning to Denver where he owned Colorado Seed & Pet for nearly 30 years. 

 

About the book, La Gente Unida board secretary and longtime Chicano gay activist Donaciano Martinez says: “Gale and I first met in the mid 1960s at The Mixer, the Denver gay bar that is the focus of one of the book’s many chapters. When Gale left Denver and moved to San Francisco in 1967, he was conservative politically and remained so by the time of our Summer 1968 visit. His job firing in 1969 changed all that. Shortly before he and CHF started their unrelenting street actions, my four-day visit with Gale in April 1969 later made me feel like I had crossed state lines to provide aid and comfort to a new comrade in the broader peace and justice movement that I had been involved in since the mid 1960s here in Colorado.”

Mosaic Youth Chorus presents 'All I Wanted for Christmas'

Mosaic Youth Chorus will have their free "All I Wanted for Christmas" Concert, an evening marking the exuberance of recent holidays, on January 15, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. at Christ Church United Methodist, 690 Colorado Boulevard at Seventh Avenue in Denver.

Mosaic Youth Chorus is Rocky Mountain Arts Association’s safe-space chorus for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning youth and their straight friends, age 14 to 20. Mosaic’s goal is to provide a safe space for youth simply to be themselves while surrounded by positive adult and peer role models.

“Our concert in January will approach this sentiment from a different point of view:  what if, instead of material gifts, we asked for gifts of peace; love; acceptance, joy? Would that make a difference in our world? A difference in our neighborhoods? Our families?” observed Mosaic Artistic Director Kendall Bridges.

Garrett Hedlund - Chances Are

Gwyneth who? Looks to me like the best thing about the upcoming 'Country Strong' is hottie Garrett Hedlund, seen here performing his song from the movie 'Chances Are.'

In 'Country Strong' a rising young singer-songwriter (Hedlund) gets involved with a fallen, emotionally unstable country star (Paltrow), the pair embarks on a career resurrection tour helmed by her husband/manager (McGraw) and featuring a beauty-queen-turned-singer (Meester). Between concerts, romantic entanglements and old demons threaten to derail them all.

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Things To do In Denver When You're Gay: Denver Botanic Gardens Blossoms of Light

Have you been to see Blossoms of Light yet at the Denver Botanic Gardens? If not, you've only got a couple more days to enjoy the delightful display of more than one million colorful lights draped in elegant designs throughout the Gardens, illuminating the plants, trees and hardscape features. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) make up more than a third of this year’s display, reflecting the Gardens’ commitment to conservation and sustainability. Intricate ice sculptures are placed throughout the path.

My advice is to bring a date and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens while sipping from a Thermos of hot toddy.

Colorado's John Kelly feels vindicated by Don't Ask, Don't Tell repeal

Colorado's own John Kelly was recently interviewed by Ch. 4 feels like "honor has been restored" to himself and other gay servicemembers with the recent repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell.

Out Loud Open House potluck

Out Loud: The Colorado Springs Men's Chorus will have an "Open House" rehearsal on Monday, January 3, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. at First Congregational Church (20 E. St. Vrain Street in Colorado Springs).

Nuclia Waste: Totally Wasted! Comedy Drag Show Opens January 12

Fasten your laugh belts, it's going to be a bumpy night! On Janueary 12, Nuclia Waste, the Triple Nipple Drag Queen of Comedy debuts her hilarious one "woman" show in Denver for a night of comedy and parody music.

You'll be snorting martinis out your nose to songs like "Never Wear Panties To A Party" and "Donuts Are A Girl's Best Friend" as Nuclia's twisted takes on some of the world's best know divas -  including Marilyn Monroe, Madonna, Cher, Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston and Lady Gaga - will have you laughing your ass off.

Because, as Nuclia says "Lord knows we can all use a little less junk in the trunk."

You've seen her on LOGO, 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno', Newsweek, and, believe it or not, The History Channel. Now see her live on stage at Lannies.

SAGE of the Rockies offers new programs for 2011

There will be several new SAGE of the Rockies programs debuting in January 2011, including:

The SAGE Rx Medication Management Project involves our own Tom Simpleman, a Board Certified Geriatric Pharmacist, who will review prescribed medication, dietary supplements, over-the-counter medication, etc., with individual SAGE members.  The focus will be to determine if the medication is appropriate, if it is being used properly to receive the maximum benefit, and if any changes might be indicated. Various aspects of the process will be documented over time to determine the effectiveness of the meetings.  The project will include all aspects of HIPPA confidentiality.  There is no cost for participating in the project. To learn more, click here.

A new Grief Support Group: Tumaini Rising: Restoring Hope After the Loss of a Partner or Significant Other. It will be offered every Thursday, beginning Jan. 20, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Leadership Suite at The Center. It will be led by Brian Bowles, clinical director, Compassion Road ( www.compassionroad.com ) Click here to learn more.

 SAGEWorks!!  SAGE of the Rockies is a participant in a new project provided through the national SAGE program, called SAGEWorks.  In short, the program is designed to help older LGBT individuals increase job skills, and find employment opportunities when desired. The job skills (job readiness) piece is open to all older adults, whether looking for work or not. The primary component is computer literacy, and this will begin in January with weekly computer skills training classes, taught by computer whiz Steve Erway in The Center's wonderful new Cyber Center.  The training curriculum is provided by Older Adults Technology Services, and is specifically geared to the learning style of older people.  Call Ken, 303.951.5222, for more information, or contact the Center's front desk, 303.733.7743, to sign up for the classes (space is limited to 10 students).  There is no charge for taking a class.

Benefits QuickLINK: The AARP Foundation and The Center are proud to announce a partnership to offer Benefits QuickLINK screenings and application assistance at The Center.  Specially trained volunteers will conduct screenings for older, low-income individuals or their family members to help determine if they may be eligible to receive public benefits.  The individual screened will receive a report indicating the benefit programs for which the individual may be eligible to apply, and the relevant applications.  The volunteer will provide the individual screened with information about how to receive additional assistance with the application process if necessary, and when needed, begin the application process with the participant.  We will have specified hours during the week when the volunteer support will be available, and appointments will be scheduled during that time. Call Ken for more details.

SAGE of the Rockies will also have your old favorites back in 2011 including:
Metropolitan Opera Live in HD - "La Fanciulla del West" by Puccini

Saturday, January 8th

This month we will enjoy a really fun opera by Puccini..."La Fanciulla del West" (The Girl of the Golden West), with Deborah Voigt in the starring role.  We will meet for breakfast at The Delectable Egg (1625 Court Place), and then go over to the Pavilions Theater for a live broadcast of what has been described as the "original spaghetti western."  (Tickets are $22).  RSVP to Ken by Wednesday, Jan. 5.

Telling Your Story Project

Mondays - 1:30 - 3:00 PM

The Center - Victory Room

Tuesday Morning Coffee 

10:00 - Noon    Weekly

The Center - Stonewall Room

Caregiver Support GroupJanuary 5^th and 19^th  (First and third Wednesdays - ongoing)

1:30 - 3:00 PM

The Center - Victory Room

Medications and Aging - Why the concern with Cholesterol?Friday - January 17^th 

1:30 - 3:00 P.M.

The Center - Stonewall Room

 

After DADT: Partners of gay service members won't get benefits?

Same-sex partners of service members will be treated like unmarried spouses and not receive benefits, according to this NPR segment covering frequently asked questions about the policy change. 

There will be no separate housing or other facilities for gay and straight military, and chaplains are being told they must accord the same counsel to service members, regardless of their sexual orientation.

Call for photography: Working with Artists

'extra-Ordinary', a non-juried exhibition from Working with Artists has issued a call for photographers for the show. T o view the full prospectus and to see an inspirational video for this exhibition please visit the Working with Artists website.

AEBN acquires Falcon and Raging Stallion Studios

AEBN announced that it has acquired Falcon Studios and is merging it with Raging Stallion Studios to form a new gay division of AEBN.

Read the full story at XBIZ (site NSFW).

MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains provides services for gay men in the Denver metro area including STD Testing and Treatment, HIV Testing and Education, Prostate and Testicular Cancer Screenings, and Education and Referrals.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas, everybody!

MileHighGayGuy will be on a lighter posting schedule for the next few days so we can enjoy the holidays.

Thank you for your continued support and here's looking forward to a wonderful 2011.

xo,
Drew

Jobs: Program Officer at The Gill Foundation

Hey job hunters, the Gill Foundation is looking for a Program Officer. 

 

This position reports to the Director, Policy Advocacy Programs and serves as one of the program officers for a strategic grant portfolio of approximately $1 million to $3 million. The portfolio is focused on state-based policy work on LGBT issues, and includes collaborative grant making programs with other institutional funders. This position will also serve as one of the program officers for either (1) strategic initiatives working with African American communities or (2) allied organizations and institutions such as schools.
 

The application deadline is January 7, 2011 and the full job description can be seen here.

Will military recruiters return to colleges after gay ban is lifted?

The end of the military gay ban could pave the way for R.O.T.C. programs to be restored at top universities, such as Harvard, Yale and Columbia. 

Many elite schools had blocked military recruiters from visiting their campuses because of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy. A spokeswoman for the U.S. Defense Department said it was "premature to speculate" on changes to the program.

Naughty and Nice

Sounds like the gay guy was a little bit of a creeper but hey, sometimes you've got to go after what you want. - via World of Wonder

MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains provides services for gay men in the Denver metro area including STD Testing and Treatment, HIV Testing and Education, Prostate and Testicular Cancer Screenings, and Education and Referrals.

HRC praises confirmation of openly gay person to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

The Human Rights Campaign yesterday praised the Senate for confirming Chai Feldblum to a full term as a Commissioner of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).  Republican Senators had previously blocked Feldblum's nomination, leading President Obama to use a recess appointment to make her, temporarily, a Commissioner in March 2010.  That temporary appointment would have expired at the end of 2011; Feldblum will now serve through July 2013.    

“We commend the Senate for finally setting aside pointless partisanship and confirming this highly qualified candidate for a full term on the EEOC," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese.  "Chai Feldblum has spent decades working to protect those most ignored and maligned by our society.  The civil rights of all Americans will be in good hands with Chai Feldblum’s continued service on the EEOC."

Prior to her recess appointment, Feldblum served as a professor of law at Georgetown University Law Center.  Throughout her career, she has worked to enact protections for some of the most stigmatized populations in America.  As legislative counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union in the 1980s, she worked to secure legal protections for people with AIDS at a time when the disease was vilified and poorly understood.  Professor Feldblum also played a leading role in the drafting and negotiation of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Feldblum is a committed advocate for equal rights for LGBT Americans.  Her work on the Employment Non-Discrimination Act has been invaluable to advancing the cause of employment protections for the LGBT community.

The EEOC was established as part of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.  Its mission is to promote equality of opportunity in the workplace and enforce Federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination.
Feldblum’s confirmation marks the first time an openly LGBT person has served on the EEOC.   

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President Obama Signs Repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell

President Barack Obama signs the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010 during a ceremony at the Interior Department in Washington, D.C., Dec. 22, 2010

Enrique Iglesias - Tonight (I'm Lovin' You) feat. Ludacris

The clean version.

Obama/Don't Ask, Don't Tell - The exclusive Advocate interview

A repeal of the “don’t ask don’t tell” law has been signed. President Obama tells The Advocate’s Kerry Eleveld that the Pentagon is "prepared to implement" repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell” and it will take months not years. He also says he's “wrestling” with the issue of marriage equality.

The wide-ranging interview took place late Tuesday afternoon and was the first one-on-one interview of his presidency with an LGBT news outlet.

Read Eleveld’s complete interview here:

www.advocate.com/News/News_Features/Exclusive_Interview_President_Barack_Obama_DADT/

JUSTICE DEPARTMENT SETTLES WITH COSMETOLOGY SCHOOL ON ALLEGATIONS OF HIV DISCRIMINATION

The Justice Department announced on Monday the settlement of an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complaint against Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc. in Bayamón, Puerto Rico.

The Justice Department initiated its investigation in response to an allegation that Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc. discriminated against an HIV-positive applicant by denying her enrollment. Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc.’s cooperation in arriving at this agreement was an important factor in resolving the matter promptly, the department said.

Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc. made an offer of enrollment to the complainant, will cease requesting information about HIV/AIDS status from future applicants and will provide training to all employees about discrimination on the basis of disability. Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc. will also pay a $5,000 civil penalty to the United States and $8,000 in damages to the complainant.

“It is critical that we continue to work to eradicate discriminatory and stigmatizing treatment towards individuals with HIV based on unfounded fears and stereotypes,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “The ADA clearly protects individuals with HIV and other disabilities from this kind of exclusion or marginalization.”

Title III of the ADA prohibits public accommodations, such as Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc. from excluding people with disabilities, including people with HIV, from enjoying the services, goods and accommodations provided. Those interested in learning out more about federal disability rights statutes can call the Justice Department’s toll-free ADA information line at 800-514-0301, 800-514-0383 (TTY), or access the ADA website at www.ada.gov.

Sgt. Eric Alva among participants of Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act signing

Today the President and the Vice President delivered remarks and the President signed into law the Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Repeal Act of 2010 in a ceremony at the Department of the Interior. The audience was made up of approximately 500 attendees, including Administration officials, Members of Congress and key advocates and stakeholders.

Among the participants of the signing was Marine Staff Sgt. Eric Alva who was the first American wounded in the war in Iraq. On March 21, 2003, he was traveling in Iraq in a convoy to Basra with his battalion when he stepped on a landmine, breaking his right arm and damaging his leg so badly that it needed to be amputated. Alva was awarded a Purple Heart and received a medical discharge from the military. Alva has been working with the Human Rights Campaign to speak out against the "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" policy banning lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans from serving in the armed forces.

Alva was a special guest at this year's HRC MileHighGala where I took this photo of him (on the right) with local businessman Adam Thodey.