MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: National Teleprinting

Lodo's oldest and best all-purpose print shop, National Teleprinting has been located right downtown at 1420 Blake Street in Denver for the past 20 years. No matter what your printing needs, National      Teleprinting will get the job done right and to your specifications.

National Teleprinting is proud to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce and has been nominated for Denver's 'Small Business of the Year' Award.

Be sure to support the local businesses that help support Colorado's gay community with their advertising dollars. Remember - when you shop gay and gay-friendly businesses, the money you spend remains in, and benefits, the LGBT community.

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Hawaii State Senate Approves Civil Unions

Last Friday the Hawaii State Senate passed SB 232 by a 19-6 vote.  The bill provides that the equal rights and responsibilities of married couples in Hawaii be available to thousands of same-sex couples in the state.  The Senate now sends a strong message that the time is now to lay this issue to rest.

“For years we have strived to secure equal rights for all families in Hawaii and today we are one step closer to realizing that dream,” said Alan Spector, Co-Chair of Equality Hawaii.  “We thank the Hawaii State Senate for recognizing the importance of this bill and for advancing the cause of equality in the Aloha State.”

Except for some technical corrections, SB 232 is identical to HB 444, the civil unions bill passed in 2010.  That bill passed the House and Senate, with near supermajorities, before Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed it.  No override vote was held.

“The Hawaii Senate has sent a strong message that discrimination against families headed by same-sex couples is wrong,” said Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign.  “All people of Hawaii deserve to be treated with equal dignity and respect under the law, and no child should ever have to grow up feeling that their family is somehow less than that of their friends and neighbors.”

The legislation now moves to the state house for its consideration.  The house also has its own version of the bill, HB 1623, which incorporates updates to the previous bill.  The updated bill addresses concerns raised in 2010 over the implementation of civil unions.  The House may consider their own version, the Senate version or amend the senate bill to reflect their changes.  Action is expected to proceed in the House next week.  Following final passage, newly elected Governor Neil Abercrombie has pledged to sign the bill into law.

Sidi Toure - Sahel Folk

Sidi & Douma from Thrill Jockey Records on Vimeo.

Malian singer & guitarist, Sidi Touré, is receiving rave reviews for his debut Thrill Jockey release, Sahel Folk, including being prominently featured in this past Sunday’s New York Times article on independent record labels’ embracing and exploring African sounds. Released last week, Sahel Folk features duets between Sidi and one friend chronicled in a live “field-recording” style at Sidi’s sister’s house. Each recording was done through a very specific two-day process -- on the first day, the friends would meet, play, and choose a song over a glass of tea. On the second day, they would record the song, allowing themselves just two takes to retain the spontaneity of the recording and reunion. The simplicity of each recording highlights the beauty of the songs and the skill of the players.

Passport's 2011 Gay Cruise Calendar

Passport presents their annual Cruise Calendar, an expansive list of the world's best gay and lesbian cruise voyages for 2011.

HRC Applauds Illinois Civil Unions Bill Signed Into Law Today

The Human Rights Campaign today applauded Illinois Governor Pat Quinn (pictured) for signing into law the “Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Unions Act.” The signing ceremony is planned for 4 p.m. central time today.  Couples may begin obtaining civil unions and enjoying the state-level rights and responsibilities of married couples on June 1, 2011.

“Today marks a tremendous step towards equality for all families in Illinois,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “HRC commends Governor Quinn for his commitment to ensuring civil unions became law. Congratulations to Rep. Greg Harris, lead sponsor of the bill, who fought for years to ensure civil unions would become a reality, and thank you to Equality Illinois and the ACLU of Illinois for their tireless efforts on behalf of the LGBT community.”

The new law will permit both same-sex and opposite-sex couples to enter into civil unions and receive the same benefits, protections, and responsibilities under Illinois law that are granted to spouses.  Couples who enter into a civil union will not receive any rights or benefits under federal law. Illinois still does not permit same-sex couples to marry.  The law explicitly allows religious entities to choose not to solemnize or officiate civil unions.

In addition to Illinois, twelve states plus Washington, D.C. have laws providing an expansive form of state-level relationship recognition for gay and lesbian couples.  Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Washington D.C. provide marriage to same-sex couples under state law.  New York and Maryland recognize out-of-jurisdiction same-sex marriages, but do not provide marriage licenses to same-sex couples in state. Five other states – California, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington – provide same-sex couples with access to almost all of the state level benefits and responsibilities of marriage, through either civil unions or domestic partnerships.
Colorado, Hawaii, Maine and Wisconsin provide gay and lesbian couples with limited rights and benefits, not all rights provided to married couples.  An attorney general opinion and subsequent court ruling in Rhode Island resulted in limited recognition of out-of-jurisdiction marriages of same-sex couples.

California recognized marriage for same-sex couples between June and November of 2008, before voters approved Proposition 8, which purports to amend the state constitution to prohibit marriage equality.  Couples married during that window remain married under California law, but all other same-sex couples can only receive a domestic partnership within the state. The state will recognize out-of-jurisdiction same-sex marriages that occurred before November 5, 2008 as marriages and those that occurred on or after November 5, 2008 as similar to domestic partnerships.

Same-sex couples do not receive federal rights and benefits in any state.  For an electronic map showing where marriage equality stands in the states, please visit: www.HRC.org/State_Laws.
 

Jessie J featuring B.o.B. - Price Tag

In the last few years, Jessie J has penned songs for the likes of Chris Brown and Lisa Lois the Holland X Factor winner. Her life also inspired the melody of a major hit record, “Party in the USA,” sung and performed by Miley Cyrus. "When Dr. Luke texted me saying my song was #1 on iTunes, I thought it was a joke!" she laughs.

Now, Jessie's signed worldwide to Universal Music Group. In the US, she inked a deal with Lava/Universal Republic Records and Island Records in the UK. "I feel like my album is an example of what exists in the world of music right now. It's like my album is an iPod... it’s like when you go clubbing these days, you don't have a pop room and a separate R&B room, they're all together. People just appreciate great music..."

Quote of the Day: Hillary Clinton

"As we reflect on his life, it is also an occasion to reaffirm that human rights apply to everyone, no exceptions, and that the human rights of LGBT individuals cannot be separated from the human rights of all persons." - U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, making a statement about the death of Ugandan LGBT activist David Kato, as quoted by Advocate.com

Marlon Reis growing comfortable as political spouse

Marlon Reis (pictured left), the partner of openly gay U.S. Rep. Jared Polis, D-Colo. (pictured right), says building friendships with other congressional spouses has helped him navigate his new role. 

The couple met in 2006, two years before Polis became the first openly gay male freshman elected to Congress.

56% of New Yorkers favor marriage equality

A Quinnipiac University poll of 1,436 registered New York voters found the state showing its highest level of support for marriage equality so far, with 56% supporting.

In 2004 a similar poll found 55% said they were opposed to marriage equality.

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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.

Pentagon prepares to unveil plan to allow for out troops

U.S. military officials have devised a plan to train and prepare the armed forces for the end of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, according to this article. 

Details are set to be released Friday, but those familiar with the plan say it calls for a three-month training period, followed by the law going into effect this summer.

Iowa marriage ban amendment fails to clear procedural vote

The push to rescind marriage rights for same-sex Iowa couples hit a wall this week, after the state Senate, in a procedural vote, refused to move forward on a constitutional amendment that would have required the state to recognize only unions between a man and a woman. 

The 26-24 party-line vote follows an earlier promise by Democratic Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal (pictured) to refuse to consider any bill that would reverse marriage equality.

Ugandan LGBT activist murdered

David Kato, a spokesman for an LGBT rights organization in Uganda, was found murdered at his Kampala home this week. Kato was involved in a suit against a tabloid paper that had published pictures of people it said were homosexuals under the headline, "Hang Them!" The killing was condemned in a statements issued by the White House and the State Department, with President Barack Obama saying, "The United States mourns his murder and we recommit ourselves to David's work."

Obituary: Landrew Foxx

Landrew Foxx passed away early last Saturday, January 22.

A service will be held this Friday, January 28 at 3pm at the old Asbury Methodist Church at the corner of West 30th Avenue and Vallejo Streets and all are invited to come.

Landrew is survived by his mother and other family members and by many dear friends who remember him for his happy-go-lucky nature and love of a good time.

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is a New Yorker for Marriage Equality

Today the Human Rights Campaign released the tenth video of the “New Yorkers for Marriage Equality” campaign.  In the most recent video, which comes on the heels of two New York polls indicating nearly 60 percent of New Yorkers support marriage equality, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. joins the cast of iconic New Yorkers in speaking up for marriage equality.  The New Yorkers for Marriage Equality campaign, which raises the public profile of marriage equality in the Empire State, can be viewed online at www.hrc.org/NY4marriage.

Ben + Vesper - My Father's Eyes

My Father's Eyes from Ben Stamper/Cines&Wonders Films on Vimeo.

Ben + Vesper’s new album 'HONORS' is out this week on Sounds Familyre and, in support of this new album, the pair are releasing a video for album track, “My Father’s Eyes”. Directed by Ben and featuring animations created by Justin Canha, a 21 year-old savant who has autism and has been taking art classes out of Ben + Vesper’s kitchen, the video is about coming full circle in your relationship with your parents.

Johnny Are You Queer? YouTube Video Contest

Josie Cotton scored a hit in 1982 with "Johnny Are You Queer?" and in celebration of her new album 'Pussycat Babylon' she's running a Youtube contest asking fans to make their own 'Johnny Are You Queer?" videos and giving out $2k in cash prizes to a handful of winners.

Winter Party Festival 2011: Six High-Energy Days for a Good Cause

From the world renowned Beach Party to an Art Deco Walking Tour, the 2011 Winter Party Festival promises an array of events and activities as diverse as the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community itself.  One of the world’s largest and most anticipated events of the year, Winter Party Festival is expected to draw 10,000 revelers from around the world for more than 20 pulse-raising events, including several dance events with world-class DJs and entertainment.  Beyond the parties, Winter Party Festival features art and culture, shopping, cocktail receptions, tours and events exclusively for women, all dedicated to fundraising for local and national LGBT equality efforts.

Produced by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, Winter Party Festival raises funds to build power, take action and create change for the LGBT community.  Two-thirds of the net proceeds generated from Winter Party Festival go to work locally through grants administered by the Miami Foundation (formerly the Dade Community Foundation), while the remaining one third goes to support The Task Force’s efforts nationally.  Since its inception in 1994, Winter Party Festival, along with The Task Force’s annual Recognition Dinner, has raised more than $2.2 million for LGBT organizations in South Florida.

 

“Miami Beach is, arguably, the world’s favorite playground,” said Chad Richter, chair of this year’s Winter Party Festival.  “With our stellar line-up of events, DJs and entertainers, this year’s Winter Party Festival will most definitely deliver and exceed the expectations of our guests.  But it’s also important not to lose sight of the reason behind why we’re all here to have a great time.  The proceeds from Winter Party Festival help continue The Task Force’s local and national fight for LGBT rights and equality.  Ultimately, that’s what it’s all about.”

In addition to the can’t-miss Beach Party on the sand along famed Ocean Drive, highlights of this year’s Winter Party Festival include the “Under One Sun Pool Party” on the Doubletree Surfcomber’s tropical pool deck as well as the debut of “Winter Party Matinee,” a partnership with one of Europe’s biggest dance parties.  Additional activities include a shopping adventure on the Lincoln Road pedestrian mall, a concert and reception featuring young musical artists from the Florida Grand Opera and four exciting events exclusively for Winter Party Festival’s women guests.

 

“With apologies to Mark Twain,” Richter said, “we want everyone to know that they’ll have the hottest winter of their life at Winter Party Festival.”

Tickets to Winter Party Festival 2011 are available individually or as part of discounted, multi-event passes.  For more information, to purchase tickets and passes, or to check out the complete schedule of events, visit www.winterparty.com.

Denver GLBT Commission Recruiting New Members

The Denver GLBT Commission has announced that there will be several vacancies available for appointment this Spring.

The GLBT Commission mission is to enhance the social, economic and political quality of life in Denver by assisting gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people in the attainment of political equality and full opportunity by empowering the Community through coalition building, gathering and disseminating information and other activities.

To apply, those interested should download the application from the website at www.denvergov.org, Denver Boards and Commissions.

The Commission strives to obtain a diverse group of members from within our own community and encourages any of those people who are active, or want to be active, apply. Additional information on the Commission can be obtained by going to the website for additional details and list of current members. Applications from GLBT community allies are also welcome.

 Candidates are needed for this Spring, but there is a often turnover during the year, and qualified applications are called upon to fulfill vacancies.

Rainbow Alley to relaunch programs for GLBT youth ages 11-15

Plans are in motion for the relaunch of the 11- to 15-year-old Rainbow Alley programming formally called the "B-side." (New name to be announced in the near future). 

Several youth and their parents have expressed interest in participating, and there will be a track for both youth and parents, with co-facilitation being done by Denver PFLAG.  

The programming will officially start in February, so please follow Rainbow Alley on Facebook for more details.

DailyJocks.com presents the best underwear videos of 2010

It may be getting a bit late in the New Year for Best Ofs but I'm sure you won't mind when the list is one of the year's best underwear videos compiled by DailyJocks.com (NSFWish?).

New HUD Regulations Will Protect LGBT Families

The Human Rights Campaign recently praised draft regulations from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that would protect LGBT families from discrimination and make clear that federal housing programs are open to all families. HUD is also in the midst of the first-ever nationwide survey of housing discrimination against LGBT people.

“Today’s announcement from HUD will help protect LGBT people and our families in one of the most fundamental aspects of life – finding and keeping a home,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese.  “The policies proposed today will help some of the most vulnerable people in our community and the nationwide survey will finally shed light on the discrimination LGBT people face every day in trying to make homes for themselves and their families.”

The new proposed rule makes three important changes to federal regulations. First, it includes language that ensures same-sex couples and their children are recognized as families covered by HUD programs, including affordable housing assistance.  Second it prohibits owners and operators of HUD-assisted housing, or housing whose financing is insured by HUD, from inquiring about the sexual orientation or gender identity of an applicant.  Third it prohibits consideration of factors other than creditworthiness, including sexual orientation and gender identity, in the awarding of mortgage loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration.  The proposed rule will be open for public comment for 60 days.  During this period, HRC will review the draft regulation and provide suggestions on how it may be improved to provide the strongest protections for LGBT families.

As part of its Blueprint for Positive Change, HRC submitted more than 70 recommendations for executive action which would improve the lives of LGBT Americans to the Obama-Biden Presidential Transition Team.  Since the administration began, HRC staff have met and communicated with numerous federal agencies on how to implement these policies.  Addressing discrimination in federal housing programs was part of HRC’s recommendations for HUD.  

Mark and Dante - Just married, and they need your help

Last month, Change.org members Mark Reed-Walkup and Dante Walkup got married in Washington, D.C., where same-sex marriage is legal. After their wedding, they couldn't wait to get home to Texas and share the joy with their Dallas community.

Unfortunately, the Dallas Morning News didn't share their sentiments -- turns out the paper refuses to print gay wedding announcements in its Wedding Section. 

Mark and Dante are fighting back. Join them in telling the Dallas Morning News to print same-sex wedding announcements in its Weddings section.

Call for Submissions: Create Denver Expo

The Create Denver Expo is an event during Create Denver Week, May 12-15, 2011. DOCA seeks organizations, associations and individuals to submit their programming ideas for workshops, panels, and exhibiting at the Create Denver Expo by Monday, January 31. To present a workshop or host a booth, complete the online form at http://bit.ly/CDExpo2011. There is no fee to exhibit or present at the Expo.

The Expo is a day-long program that provides creative individuals and businesses that have limited resources of time, money and capacity a "one-stop" opportunity to learn about the various City, non-profit and for-profit resources available to help grow and stabilize creative businesses. The Expo offers workshops led by experts in the fields of public art, marketing, personal and business finance, media relations, music and film production, zoning and more. Local service organizations, trade associations and other providers are invited to host a trade booth in the atrium of the Webb Building, promoting their services to the creative community.

Corbin Fisher takes on Hotfile

Adult studio Corbin Fisher (NSFW) says file-trading site Hotfile.com and about 1,000 of its customers have engaged in massive copyright infringement by making available 2,400 links to the gay studio's titles.

XBIZ has the full story here (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.

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Wyoming set to tighten marriage laws, but may consider civil unions

The Wyoming Legislature looks set to approve a bill that would keep the state from recognizing out-of-state marriages or civil unions of same-sex couples. However, some state lawmakers who oppose marriage rights for gays and lesbians say they could support a civil unions bill. 

"I'm getting a stronger sense that civil unions will pass," said Rep. Dan Zwonitzer (pictured), a Republican who supports full marriage rights.

Former gubernatorial candidate goes after remaining Iowa judges who established gay marriage

Bob Vander Plaats (pictured), a 2010 candidate for Iowa's Republican gubernatorial nomination, is working to oust the remaining four state Supreme Court judges who were part of a unanimous decision establishing marriage equality in the state. 

The other three judges who were part of that decision have already been voted off the court. 

"We're getting an organization in every county. With ambassadors and grass-roots coordinators. So that we can activate on pro-family issues," Vander Plaats said.

Out lawmakers prepare to fight for marriage rights

Openly LGBT state lawmakers in Maryland and New York are gearing up to fight for marriage equality bills. Maryland elected three additional out lawmakers in 2010, bringing the state's total to seven.

"We've never been in a better position," said Maryland State Sen. Richard Madaleno (pictured).

The Advocate Launches Stand-Alone Digital Edition

The Advocate, the world’s leading gay news source, today launched its own unique digital edition through Zinio, the world's largest newsstand and bookstore. Beginning in February, the stand-alone digital edition provides Advocate readers instant access to the publication’s award-winning news, features, and commentary—wherever and whenever they want—on iPad, iPhone, PC, Mac, and select Android devices. The Advocate’s digital edition was previously available as a supplement to its sister publication, OUT.

“We are thrilled to partner with Zinio to offer readers instant access to The Advocate’s authoritative coverage of gay and lesbian news, politics and entertainment through our new stand-alone digital edition,” said John Knoebel, Here Media’s Vice President of Consumer Marketing. “This new launch will allow Advocate readers to subscribe or purchase single copies and enjoy the convenience of accessing them through their choice of mobile devices including the Apple iPad. Equally exciting, readers will be able to accumulate a digital archive of their favorite articles and issues for fast access in the future.”

The Kids Are All Right cast reacts to Oscar nominations

Below are reactions from some of the nominated cast/crew for The Kids Are All Right, including Mark Ruffalo who calls this nomination "a win for Marriage Equality."

 "It is with great honor and humility that I receive my Oscar nomination. I have been included with a group of top-notch actors who I respect and admire. I am humbled to be in their   presence. I also would like to acknowledge the power of ensemble acting. The kind of acting that happened in this movie does not exist in a bubble. Any honor that I receive must be   shared with Julianne Moore, Annette Bening, Josh Hutcherson, Mia Wasikowska, the rest of the cast, and of course the inimitable Lisa Cholodenko. Thank you to the Academy. This nomination is a win for Marriage Equality and that is the most I could hope for." - Mark Ruffalo (top left) 

 

"4 nominations and 4 kids.  I am damn proud!" - Annette Bening 

 

“It's incredible to think that this morning's Oscar nominations go back 7 years to the fateful day Stuart Blumberg and I crossed paths in a Los Angeles coffee shop and agreed to write KIDS together. If luck is preparation meeting opportunity, then that was the opportunity, hands down! I'm thrilled that I'll be at the Kodak Theatre next month with Stuart, Mark Ruffalo, Annette Bening, Jeff Levy-Hinte, and my other producers who worked so hard to get this film made. I only regret that Julianne Moore didn't get the acting nomination she so richly deserved. But the Picture nomination is as much hers as ours. We couldn't have made this film without her heart, smarts and loyalty, not to mention her outstanding performance.”  - Lisa Cholodenko

 

“Try as I could to act cool and not care, as soon as I heard our names called, I started crying like a little kid. Pardon the cliché, but this truly is a dream come true. I want to thank the Academy for this most phenomenal honor.” - Stuart Blumberg (bottom left)

 

New report shows wide range of support for gay rights

Today the Human Rights Campaign released a special report analyzing public opinion on LGBT equality.  The data clearly shows Americans are supportive of fairness on a wide range of issues affecting the LGBT community. 

“While the American people embrace their LGBT friends and neighbors, government remains a lagging indicator of acceptance,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese.  “The numbers don’t lie.  Americans want equal rights for LGBT citizens and lawmakers should heed their call.”

Changing hearts and minds is the key to achieving equality for LGBT people.  From marriage and relationship recognition to employment nondiscrimination laws, Americans are quickly and consistently moving to embrace equality.

Doritos Superbowl commercial pretty distasteful

What do you guys think about this Doritos commercial scheduled to run during the Superbowl? Is it homophobic? Racist? Homophobic and racist? Or is it all in good fun? One thing's for sure, Doritos are delicious but this spot leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

James Franco made a sex tape!

The important thing to take away from this clip is that James Franco made a sex tape at age 19. He says it wasn't very good but I'm willing to bet that even a not very good James Franco sex tape would still be pretty awesome.

HUD PROPOSES NEW RULE TO ENSURE EQUAL ACCESS TO HOUSING REGARDLESS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION OR GENDER IDENTITY

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recently proposed new regulations intended to ensure that its core housing programs are open to all eligible persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.  View the proposed rule announced here.

“This is a fundamental issue of fairness,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan.  “We have a responsibility to make certain that public programs are open to all Americans.  With this proposed rule, we will make clear that a person’s eligibility for federal housing programs is, and should be, based on their need and not on their sexual orientation or gender identity.”

337 Businesses Rated Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality

The Human Rights Campaign last week released its annual list of “Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality.”   This year 337 companies were awarded this distinction for their employment policies and practices that include LGBT workers and their families.  The list comes as Fortune magazine has also released their annual “100 Best Companies to Work For.”  A complete list of HRC’s honored businesses is available online at: www.hrc.org/placestowork.

“With the amount of time people spend at work, having strong protections on the job make a real difference in the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. “By mandating equal opportunity in hiring, ensuring equal compensation through medical and family benefits, and promoting inclusive and equal workplaces for LGBT employees, these companies are a model for other employers and federal and state governments.”
The “Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality” distinction is awarded to businesses that scored 100% on the HRC Foundation’s 2011 Corporate Equality Index, the primary method for businesses to benchmark and evaluate their policies, practices and diversity efforts relating to LGBT workers.  The index evaluates non-discrimination policies, benefits, diversity training and other internal resources for LGBT workers, as well as external support for the LGBT community.  Released in October, the 2011 Corporate Equality Index report is available online at www.hrc.org/cei. 

The 337 businesses will be honored on March 23 at the Seventh Annual LGBT Workplace Awards Seminar and Reception hosted by Time Warner at the Time Warner Center in New York.

Ashton Kutcher wears Baskit in Men's Fitness

Check out Ashton Kutcher rocking Colorado-based underwear company Baskit tees (both crew neck and sleeveless) in this month's issue of Men's Fitness. You can get yours here: www.baskitwear.com/store/underwear/collection/urbanbasics/classic-crew-tee.html

New Funding for Discredited Catholic "Gay Therapy" Group Poses Broader Questions for American Catholics and the Nation

Catholics for Equality last week voiced concern over recent funding from the Dioceses of Oakland, CA and Colorado Springs, CO for the establishment of chapters of the Courage Apostolate, a discredited reparative therapy program. The funding and endorsement of the discredited program reveals the disturbing trend of some bishops to align themselves more closely with anti-gay extremists than American Catholics and the American public.

The Courage Apostolate's misuse of the 12-step program holds the premise that same-sex attraction is a disease, similar to alcoholism, and should be "controlled." Its underlying intrinsic disorder philosophy mirrors the "reparative therapy" programs developed through Evangelical ministries - all of which have been discredited by both the American Psychological Association and the American Psychiatric Association.

Recently, the Courage Apostolate's framing of homosexuality was used by Archbishop Timothy Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services in the United States of America Services, in opposition to allowing gay and lesbian solders to serve openly in the military.

More after the jump.

"As American Catholics we are embarrassed that leaders of our church would embrace such outdated and discredited theories about human sexuality and the human condition," says Catholics for Equality Executive Director Phil Attey. "We are further embarrassed and frustrated when these arguments are made in public and used to influence civil law in America. Many American Catholics feel like we're back in the days of Copernicus when we hear our bishops making erroneous statements like these on behalf of the Catholic community."

"That more dioceses are funding these programs should be alarming for every Catholic in America," says Joseph Palacios, Director of the Catholics for Equality Foundation. "It signals that our institutional church is further being taken over by the Catholic fundamentalist movement which is working to return the Roman Catholic Church to the pre-Vatican II attitudes that separated Catholics from the modern world. We fear that if American Catholics do not speak out against these trends and this restorationist movement succeeds, our church will no longer be a home for American Catholic families seeking to be faithful Catholics as well as Americans committed to inclusion and equality for all citizens."

Catholics for Equality calls on pro-equality Catholics nationwide to ask their pastors if their weekly offerings are being channeled into local Courage Apostolate programs. We also ask every American Catholic to contact their state legislators and members of Congress to counter the harmful influences that the Conference of Bishops, the Courage Apostolate and other discredited reparative therapy programs are having on American public policy regarding legal equality for all Americans. 


HRC Foundation to Launch Program to Explore Workplace Policies of Jewish Non-Profit Organizations

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation announced today that it will begin an effort to investigate the existing workplace policies for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees at Jewish non-profit organizations. The work, an expansion of HRC’s workplace equality project, is supported by a generous lead grant from the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation and supporting grants from The Morningstar Foundation, Stuart S. Kurlander—a leader in several non-profit Jewish and Jewish LGBT community organizations—and an anonymous donor.

“Together, HRC and our partners share a vision of a work environment that provides every employee with the opportunity to achieve their full potential – in policy and in practice,” said Joe Solmonese, president of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. “This collaborative partnership will expand the conversation about equality for LGBT people to the communities these organizations serve and to religious communities more broadly about their role in making fairness and equality a reality for all.”

More after the jump.

“The continued marginalization of LGBT Jews in some quarters is especially disheartening for those of us who believe in the power of a fully inclusive Jewish community that embraces every person as having equal and infinite merit,” said Lynn Schusterman, chair of the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation. “We hope that by creating this equality index, we can advance a process whereby LGBT Jews will be more welcomed and protected in the workplace and in Jewish community organizations, which will, in turn, create a more open, vibrant and diverse Jewish community.”

Last year Lynn Schusterman issued a call for all Jewish organizations to join her family’s foundation in adopting non-discrimination hiring policies that specifically mention sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

Put into context, today, anyone can be fired for their sexual orientation in 21 states, or for their gender identity or expression in 38 states. Although lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have enjoyed increased protections among the largest employers and in certain states over the last decade, the vast majority of LGBT employees remain unprotected. Information on current practices at nonprofits is largely unavailable and likely to reveal a strong need for education in workplaces on the organizational benefits that flow from treating LGBT employees fairly. This project will serve as a pilot to expand workplace equality into other non-profits and small employers of all sorts.

The initial goals of the work include assessing existing practices and highlighting areas for education. The HRC Foundation will develop and administer a survey, benchmark results against selected criteria for LGBT workplace inclusiveness and publish a report based on a review of approximately 300 organizations. The work will also include an assessment of organizations’ cultural competency in delivering services to the LGBT community, such as whether the agency has inclusive language and messaging for LGBT clients, customers, students, campers, youth or parents. The initial report is scheduled for release in 2012.

“We strongly believe in the Jewish value of b'tzelem elohim that every person in the world is created in the image of the Divine. Individuals should have the right – and the ability – to live their lives so that sexual identity does not present any impediment to either obtaining or maintaining employment,” said Susie and Michael Gelman, managing directors of The Morningstar Foundation. “The talented individuals who devote their professional lives to serving the Jewish community should be able to rely on Jewish organizations upholding this fundamental Jewish precept. We look forward to working with our partners to create positive change around this issue.”

“As a longtime supporter of the work of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, I know its advocacy for inclusive workplace practices for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community has been a key driver of change in social justice for our community,” said Stuart S. Kurlander. “The organizations involved see a partner in HRC who can not only help bring change within the Jewish non-profit communitybut also advance the dialogue in this country on equality for all people.”


Win an 8-day Miami Beach Gay Pride Vacation!

Show your rainbow colors and enter to win an eight-day Pride vacation to the most exciting city on the planet - Miami Beach. 

This once-in-a-lifetime vacation includes round-trip airfare for you and Mr. Right; three nights in the fabulous Anglers Boutique Resort South Beach; and all the sights, sounds and excitement of the Miami Beach Gay Pride Parade and Expo along famed Ocean Drive on April 16, 2011. Then take your Pride from Ocean Drive to the ocean and enjoy a sea-sational five-day Caribbean Pride cruise aboard the Norwegian Sky, courtesy of Source Events.

Entering the sweepstakes is easy! Simply answer the five questions below correctly and you could be on your way to a fantastic fun in the sun vacation in Miami Beach and aboard the Norwegian Sky. All of the answers can be found on the Celebrate Pride on Miami Beach website. http://www.miamibeachgaypride.com

Free music download: Joyce DiDonato - Aprite, Presto Aprite

To celebrate today's release of Joyce DiDonato's new album Diva, Divo, Virgin Classics is offering the chance to own the recording of the exquisite track "Aprite, presto aprite" from Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro, where Joyce sings both parts in the duet, absolutely free!

The track available for download is a bonus track taken from her Diva, Divo recording session.  Download it here: http://www.angelrecords.com/joycedidonato/divadivo/

Start Your Engines! Official 'RuPaul's Drag Race' Viewing Party Tonight at Tracks

Head on over to Tracks tonight to check out the charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent of the newest season's batch of drag superstar hopefuls.

MileHighGayGuy Advertiser Shout Out: Sunset Limo

Sunset Limo offers Colorados first and largest fleet of stretch exotics and suv limos. Always imitated but never duplicated, Sunset Limos has provided the Denver Metro Area with professional, courteous limousine service for over 20 years.

Whether you simply want to ride in style or are looking for the ultimate party experience, Sunset Limo's professional event planners will be able to recommend the best options and give you the best value - and variety - in town. Don't settle for less when you can have the very best for the same price.

Follow MileHighGayGuy on Facebook and Twitter

Hey guys, please click here to become a fan of the MileHighGayGuy Facebook Fan Page.

And, while you're at it, could you also please follow me on Twitter?

Do it!

You know you wanna!

Researchers find U.S. South is home to most gay parents

Jacksonville, Fla., has America's highest concentration of gays and lesbians raising children, and a far more diverse LGBT community than the stereotypes of the gay community would suggest, according to U.S. Census figures. 

Black and Latino same-sex couples are raising kids at double the rate of their white counterparts, according to demographer Gary Gates, who crunched the numbers.

Gibbs: White House will work on ENDA

President Obama will work to build support for the Employment Non-Discrimination Act,which would ban employment discrimination against LGBT Americans, despite the unlikelihood it would pass both chambers of the 112th Congress, said White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs (pictured).

HUD bans discrimination against LGBT program applicants

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development unveiled a policy forbidding discrimination against LGBT Americans in federal housing programs. "These are critically important reforms given that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people remain particularly vulnerable in seeking or retaining housing due to widespread bias," said Rea Carey, executive director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force.

The cost of Don't Ask, Don't Tell? $200 million

Discharging troops under the "don't ask, don't tell" policy cost the U.S. military almost $200 million between 2004 and 2009, according to a Government Accountability Office report.

$200 million.

To discharge gay troops. 


Unbelievable.

Federal judge allows another DOMA suit

Oakland, Calif., District Judge Claudia Wilken has rejected a Justice Department request to dismiss a lawsuit filed by married gay and lesbian couples who were prevented from purchasing long-term care insurance for their spouses. 

Wilken said prohibitions affecting same-sex couples contained in the Defense of Marriage Act and the Internal Revenue Code "do not bear a rational relationship to a legitimate government interest."

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.

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Follow MileHighGayGuy on Facebook and Twitter

Hey guys, please click here to become a fan of the MileHighGayGuy Facebook Fan Page.

And, while you're at it, could you also please follow me on Twitter?

Do it!

You know you wanna!

Jovany Barreto takes it off on 'American Idol'

I'm not watching this season but I'm a big fan of this guy. Get famous, Jovany Barreto.

Erland & The Carnival - Map of an Englishman

Deep in the bowels of a ship on the Thames, Erland & The Carnival, vocalist Erland Cooper, drummer David Nock (producer and engineer for The Orb, Paul McCartney, David Gilmour), and guitarist Simon Tong (former member of The Good the Bad & the Queen, The Verve and now guitar-for-hire for Gorillaz), recorded their forthcoming album, Nightingale, in a small, dank studio. On the wall was one particularly inspiring piece of art: Grayson Perry’s 2004 work Map of an Englishman. It was so inspiring, in fact, the band wrote a song about it.

Invisible Athletes: A discussion of gays in sports at University of Denver

Click to embiggen and read about this interesting discussion about gays in sports taking place today at the University of Denver.

Travel: Ponce, Puerto Rico

Passport claims that Ponce, on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, is an architectural and artistic gem just waiting to be explored. 

I believe them.