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Bloc Party’s Kele opens up about his sexuality

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:44:00 +0000

The world of indie music has always felt like a pretty gay friendly scene, whether it’s because of Morrissey’s lyrical flirtations with gay subculture or because Blur proudly proclaimed to regularly snog the chops of each other. But despite the flirting, there seemed a reluctance for gay indie stars to come out. However, in the latest issue of Butt magazine Kele Okereke the lead singer of London indie fourpiece Bloc Party gives his most open interview to date about his sexuality, coming out to his strict Catholic Nigerian parents and being black and gay in a predominantly white and straight scene. In the interview Kele talks about how he was brought up to believe that homosexuality was a sin, and how his sexuality is something he and his parents are “constantly working through”. Kele says: “My parents are super-Catholic and they come from a culture in Nigeria where there weren’t any visible gay people who were out and were happy... My parents are getting older and I didn’t like the idea that they could possibly die without knowing something that is a big part of my life. It’s not easy. But I know that they love me and I love them.” He adds: “This interview is actually an important step in my relationship with my parents. The reason I’m doing it is whenever I go out , I’m always stopped by young, gay kids who say it’s really refreshing and encouraging to see someone like me being out in a relatively mainstream band. If I’d have had someone saying it’s ok to be you when I was a teenager, I’d probably be a very different person. That is why I’m doing this now, after years of not doing it.  It’s good to show that gays come in all shapes and sizes.” To read more inspirational stories, <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/challenge-homophobia-and-succeed/" target="_blank">click here</a>. To get support around coming out, <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/coming-out/" target="_blank">click here.</a>

UPDATE: Join the movement to free Malawi gay couple

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 10:30:00 +0000

Gay Malawi couple - Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga - were taken into custody after being arrested on December 29 2009 following their engagement ceremony in Blantyre. The couple have been charged with "unnatural practices between males and gross public indecency"; they remain in custody and could face up to 14 years in prison. Homosexual acts between men is illegal in Malawi. Human rights organisation Amnesty International have adopted Steven and Tiwonge as Prisoners of Conscience and are campaigning for their release. Amnesty International UK Director, Kate Allen, said: "Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga have committed no criminal offence and we adopted them as prisoners of conscience after their arrest at the end of December. It is vital that as many people as possible join us in writing to the Malawi authorities calling on them to release the two men and for them to investigate their treatment in custody."  Peter Tatchell of gay rights group Outrage added: "OutRage! is supporting Amnesty's campaign. If enough people send letters of protest, it might help secure an acquittal or a less harsh sentence. Even if Tiwonge and Steven are convicted, they could win a successful appeal and be freed eventually...From their prison cells, both men have urged international pressure for their release. They need lots of support and solidarity in the run-up to the trial result." Be part of the movement to free Steven and Tiwonge and write to the Malawi government to urge their release. To see a sample letter and the President of Malawi's adrress and fax, <a href="http://www.amnesty.org.uk/actions_details.asp?ActionID=682" target="_blank">click here</a>.
<a href="http://www.amnesty.org.uk/actions_details.asp?ActionID=682"></a>28/01/2010: UPDATE: Call for Malawi gay couple to be released from prison.
Gay Malawi couple - Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga - are still in custody after being arrested on December 29 following their engagement ceremony in Blantyre. Homosexual acts between men is illegal in Malawi, it is punishable by up to 14 years imprisonment. The couple have been charged with "unnatural practices between males and gross public indecency." <a href="http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Gay-Couple-Face-Jail-In-Malawi -Crackdown-On-Homosexuality-In-Parts-Of-Africa/Article/201001415534953?lpo s=World_News_First_Home_Page_Feature_Teaser_Region_0&lid=ARTICLE_15534953_ Gay_Couple_Face_Jail_In_Malawi%3A_Crackdown_On_Homosexuality_In_Parts_Of_A frica" target="_blank">Sky News' African Correspondant Emma Hurd, highlighted in a report this week, that homophobia in parts of Africa "has forced gay communities into hiding, fearing for their lives." </a> Speaking to the gay community in Blantyre - where Steven and Tiwonge's trial is taking place - one gay man, who didn't want to be identified told Sky News "It's so scary...We are not feeling free and are worried about being arrested." Sky News have reported on the humiliating treatment that Steven and Tiwonge have been subjected to: "They are considered such a risk to the public that they have been denied bail and are handcuffed every time they appear in court, jeered by the crowds as they're led to the dock." Another gay man added: "We are not even treated as human." An Early Day Motion (564) has been tabled by John Hemming MP condeming Malawi's treatment of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga and to also call for their release from prison. The EDM also calls for the decriminalisation of consenting same-sex relations. To urge your MP to support and sign this Early Day Motion write to them via <a href=" http://www.writetothem.com/" target="_blank">www.writetothem.com.</a>;
<h2>08/01/2010: Gay arrests in Malawi spark worldwide condemnation.</h2>
Arrests of couple and HIV/AIDs workers highlight battle against homophobia and HIV stigma.
On 26 December 2009, Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga held a traditional engagement ceremony in Blantyre’s poor township of Chirimba, Malawi. Two days later, the men were arrested by police after the story was reported in local newspapers. Homosexual acts between men is illegal in Malawi, it is punishable by up to 14 years imprisonment. The couple have been charged with "unnatural practices between males and gross public indecency." On 4 January the men appeared before magistrates and were denied bail “for their own safety” and “in the interest of justice”. They have been remanded until 11 January. On the same day that Steven and Tiwonge were refused bail, Malawian police arrested Bunker Kamba, an HIV/AIDS activist from the Centre for the Development of People (CEDEP), for possessing what police allege to be pornographic material. Amnesty International have reported that Kamba was arrested after police seized the material the organisation uses to educate men who have sex with men (MSM) on HIV/AIDS. He handed himself to the police with his lawyers and was released on bail. A total of three human rights campaigners have now been arrested and bailed. Police are also reported to be looking for CEDEP director Gift Trapence, he is expected to hand himself in to police. Kamba's arrest comes after the formulation of Malawi’s National AIDS Strategy in 2009, where the Malawi government consulted widely, including with MSM, on ways of combating the spread of HIV in Malawi. Paul Martin, Chief Executive of the Lesbian & Gay Foundation said: "These arrests are a stark reminder of the challenges that still face LGBT communities throughout the world. “The reality for Steven and Tiwonge is imprisonment, it's the same for Bunker and his colleagues from CEDEP who are merely trying to get their sexual health message out, to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS in Malawi. “It's unacceptable that in 2010 homosexuality is still being criminalised. That is why we must not be complacent,  we must continue to challenge and highlight homophobia and HIV stigma across the world, as well as in our own community, at every opportunity." Today, the human rights organisation <a href="http://www.petertatchell.net/" target="_blank">OutRage</a> have called on British Foreign Secretary David Miliband to press the Malawian government to release Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga and halt the arrest and prosecution of three Malawian human rights campaigners, who have publicly defended the jailed men. Amnesty International have responded to the arrests by calling on Malawian authorities to end their criminalisation of homosexuality. Kate Allen, UK Director of <a href="http://www.amnesty.org.uk/" target="_blank">Amnesty International </a>said: “Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga have committed no criminal offence and should be immediately and unconditionally released. “The Malawian authorities’ attempt to subject them to forcible anal examinations is appalling. Such practices, and the criminalisation of homosexuality in Malawi should be ended without delay.” Amnesty International also warns that the arrest of Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga risks driving underground men who have sex with men (MSM) in Malawi, making it more difficult to get access to information on HIV prevention and health services.
STAND UP TO HOMOPHOBIA & HIV STIGMA: To demand the release if Steven and Tiwonge and to call for an end to the criminalisation of homosexuality in Malawi protest to the Malawian High Commissioner in London, email His Excellency Dr. Francis Moto at <a href="mailto:malawi@malawihighcommission.co.uk">malawi@malawihighcommission.co.uk.</a>

LGF confidence building sessions 100% effective

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0000

February's "Pour Yourself A Cup of Ambition" confidence building sessions for unemployed lesbian, gay and bisexual people were such a huge success, that we are pleased to announce that we are running another three day "Pour Yourself a Cup of Ambition" session on March 30th, 31st, and April 8th. "Pour Yourself a Cup of Ambition" is a brand new confidence building project specially designed for unemployed lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people. The course also aims to increase other relevant skills that will help when applying for, or being interviewed for jobs; such as team building and assertiveness. The course is also a great opportunity to meet other people in a similar position, to share tips and experiences. You will also look at LGB people's rights in the workplace - it's always important to know what your rights are so that you feel more confident. There will also be a chance to look into the <a href="https://www.lgf.org.uk/volunteer?tag=" target="_blank">volunteer opportunities</a> available at the LGF. If you are little apprehensive about coming along, hopefully hearing some of the positive feedback we received from the people who came to the first session will encourage you to sign up! The participants felt that for them, the course had been 100% effective.
<h2>What people said they liked about "Pour Yourself A Cup of Ambition"...</h2>
"It was friendly, welcoming and fun." "The team work" "I liked that it helped me to be more skillful and professional with my vocabulary" "The presentations were very interesting and helpful."
<h2>What people said they took away from "Pour Yourself A Cup of Ambition"...</h2>
"Tips for interviews and confidence." "I got over my insecurities by presenting and talking within small groups." "A positive attitude" "Friendship" So what are you waiting for? For more information or to sign up and register for "Pour Yourself A Cup of Ambition" call Dennis Baldwin on 0161 235 8035 or email <a href="mailto:training@lgf.org.uk">training@lgf.org.uk</a>. Also contact Dennis, if you have any special dietary needs or specific access requirements. Sessions run 10.00am - 4.30pm on Tuesday 30th March, Wednesday 31st March and Thursday 8th April. Lunch will be provided. The LGF is able to offer a number of travel expenses of up to £10 for Greater Manchester based participants. Please keep your receipts which will be copied on the day. If you require bursaries above £10 please contact Dennis Baldwin on 0161 235 8035 prior to the starting date.
For more on confidence and assertiveness,<a href="https://www.lgf.org.uk/assertiveness-and-confidence/" target="_blank"> click here.</a>

Bishop of Liverpool urges church to accept diverse sexualities

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:11:00 +0000

The Bishop of Liverpool - The Right Rev James Jones - has called on the Anglican Community to "accept a diversity of ethical convictions" in his presidential address to his diocese.
According to <a href="http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/faith/article7051754.ece" target="_blank">The Times</a>, he urged those on the conservative side of the homosexuality debate to accept those on the liberal side for the sake of Anglican peace.
In his presidential address, Jones also highlights that sexuality like ethnicity is a "given", which, it is noted, may upset some conservative Anglicans who see sexuality as a lifestyle choice.
The Right Rev James Jones describes himself as "in sympathy" with the recent <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/lords-vote-in-favour-of-allowing-civil-partnerships-in-religious-premises/" target="_blank">Equality Bill amendment</a> in favour of allowing civil partnerships in religious premises, which was passed last week in the House of Lords.
The Bishop's diocese has been the centre of some of the most high profile homophobic attacks in recent years. In 2008, gay 18 year old Michael Causer was murdered in Huyton and in October 2009, trainee police officer James Parkes was attacked by a gang of upto 20 youths in a homophobic attack in Liverpool's gay quarter.
The Bishop of Liverpool has noted that the traditional stance on gay relationships can fuel homophobia, and he proposes the Church moves "towards allowing a variety of ethical conviction about people of the same gender loving each other fully".
The Times have reported that the Bishop believes, "the day is coming when Christians who equally profoundly disagree about the consonancy of same gender love within the discipleship of Christ will in spite of their disagreement drink openly from the same cup of salvation."
The Bishop's comments have been welcomed by a number of LGBT faith groups, Colin Coward of Changing Attitude told The Times: "This is both a strong affirmation of gay relationships and a confirmation of Anglican tradition, that differences in attitude to homosexuality are not church-dividing and that Christians can live together in one church community respecting each other's convictions."
RELIGION AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION MASTERCLASS: Confused about religion and sexual orientation and how they sit together on the equalities agenda? Come to the LGF's Keep the Faith Masterclass, for more information, <a href="come-to-training-at-the-lgf/" target="_blank">click here.</a>

Free Gay Sunday Lunch at the LGF

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:30:00 +0000

Come and feast on a fabulous free three course Sunday Lunch at The Lesbian & Gay Foundation on Sunday March 21st (1.30pm – 5pm).  We want lesbian, gay and bisexual people of all ages who work, play, learn or live in the city of Manchester to come together to share your stories and experiences of the city, and explore some of the myths and stereotypes around age; and what better way to do it than a natter over some lovely nosh! Adam Winter, from The Lesbian and Gay Foundation explains: “We hope to have a fun and interesting day where lesbian, gay and bisexual people of all ages can come together to share perceptions and experiences of our city. We’ll be doing a few exercises to explore how LGB people experience Manchester and enjoying a fabulous three course homecooked Sunday lunch along the way! The event is free and we really want older and younger people to be able to meet and learn from each other.” If you want to help bring Manchester’s generations together, book your place at the Manchester Generation’s free gay Sunday Lunch table by emailing Adam Winter on <a href="mailto:adam.winter@lgf.org.uk">adam.winter@lgf.org.uk</a> or call 0161 235 8023. Also contact Adam if you have any accesss or dietary requirements.
The event is taking place on Sunday March 21st (1.30pm - 5pm) at The Lesbian & Gay Foundation, Princess House, 105 - 107 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 6DD.
Manchester City Council and Valuing Older People in Manchester support this event with enthusiasm.

Conservatives and Greens sport their gay credentials

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:46:00 +0000

As the General Election approaches, both the Conservatives and the Green Party have stepped up their bids to appeal to lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans voters. Nick Herbert, one of the Conservatives leading out gay MPs and Shadow Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has sent the Daily Mail a list of the party's out gay candidates who will be standing at the election. The publishing of the list, which is being referred to as the “rainbow list”, follows David Cameron’s interview in the gay magazine Attitude and Nick Herbert’s speech in Washington last month, both highlighting how the Conservatives had changed their stance on homosexuality. The list reveals that the Conservatives have 20 gay politicians standing at the next election, with 11 happy to be named. <a href="http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2010/03/08/tories-publish-rainbow-list-of-gay-candidates/" target="_blank">Pink News</a> have reported that a spokesperson for Nick Herbert said “the nine who did not wish to be named still wanted to be included on the list.” The 11 named candidates are:<a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/margot-james/" target="_blank"> Margot James</a>, 52, (Stourbridge), David Gold, 37, (Eltham), Nick Boles, 44, (Grantham), Iain Stewart, 27, (Milton Keynes South), Mark Coote, 49, (Cheltenham), Nick King, 44, (Mid Dorset and North Poole), Matthew Sephton, 34, (Salford and Eccles) and Simon Nayyar, 42, (Hackney South and Shoreditch), Nick Herbert MP, Alan Duncan MP and Greg Barker MP. Herbert said in his Washington speech, “A successful political party should be open to all and ought to look something like the country it seeks to govern…In recent history the Conservative Party in parliament reflected only a section of our society – male, white, professional, grey-suited and straight.” The “rainbow list” now joins the party's lists on female and ethnic and minority candidates standing for election in a bid to highlight the changing face of the Conservative Party.
<h2>Greens publish LGBT Manifesto</h2>
The Green Party have launched a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans manifesto ahead of the General Election. The 6 core areas of the Greens’ LGBT General Election manifesto are: * Open up civil marriages and civil partnerships, without discrimination, to both same-sex and opposite sex couples. * Require all police forces to have LGBT Liaison Officers with paid time allocated within their work schedules to tackle homophobic and transphobic hate crime. * End the blanket, lifetime ban on gay and bisexual blood donors. * Amend the Equality Bill/Act to provide explicit protection against harassment to LGBT people. * Refuse visas and work permits to "murder music" singers and others who incite homophobic and transphobic violence. * Ensure safe haven and refugee status for LGBT people fleeing persecution in violently homophobic and transphobic countries.
The Greens claim that they are offering, "the strongest, most comprehensive and radical LGBT equality policies of any party.” To read the Greens’ LGBT Election Manifesto in full, <a href="http://www.lgbtgreens.org.uk/news/2010/greens_launch_2010_lgbt_manifesto.aspx" target="_blank">click here.</a> Have the Conservatives changed? Which party will best guard, represent and progress LGBT rights? Have your say in the comments box below. Make your vote count! Find out about registering to vote at<a href="http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/" target="_blank"> www.aboutmyvote.co.uk.</a>;

Jobs at the LGF

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 10:25:00 +0000

<h2>Well-being Co-ordinator</h2>
Salary: £22,683 - £25,676 (pay award pending) plus 10% pension 37 hours a week Funded until March 2011, office Based in Manchester
We are looking to recruit a Well-being Co-ordinator will join the Services Team at our office. You will be responsable for interprating local, regional and national health policies and plans and lead on the operational development of LGF’s Mental Health services. This will include developing current activities and identifying opportunities for new services.
We are looking for an excellent communicator who can build and maintain positive cross-agency relationships. You will have experience of managing projects and/or staff and volunteers.
<a href="assets/Uploads/PDFs/jobs/LGF-wellbeing-co-ordinator-application.doc" title="Download Facilities Assistant application form">Download application form</a> - <a href="assets/Uploads/PDFs/jobs/LGF-wellbeing-co-ordinator-job-description.doc" title="Download Facilities Assistant job description">Download job description/person specification</a> <a href="assets/Uploads/PDFs/jobs/LGF-demographic-form-march-2010.doc">Download equal opportunities monitoring form</a>
Application deadline: 12 noon on Wednesday 24th March 2010 Interviews: Wednesday 31st March 2010
<hr />
<h2>Policy and Research Officer</h2>
Salary: £17,414 - £19,600 (pay award pending) plus 10% pension 37 hours per week Funded by the EHRC until March 2011, office Based in Manchester
We are looking to recruit a Policy and Research Officer to join the Team. You will conduct qualitative and quantitative research, support consultation responses, develop excellent communications with partners, including providing policy and research briefing papers and identify and prioritise key relevant research to include in the LGF’s ‘Evidence Exchange’ database.
<a href="assets/Uploads/PDFs/jobs/LGF-policy-research-officer-application.doc" title="Download Facilities Assistant application form">Download application form</a> - <a href="assets/Uploads/PDFs/jobs/LGF-policy-research-officer-job-description.doc" title="Download Facilities Assistant job description">Download job description/person specification</a> <a href="assets/Uploads/PDFs/jobs/LGF-demographic-form-march-2010.doc">Download equal opportunities monitoring form</a>
Application deadline: 12 noon on Wednesday 24th March 2010 Interviews: Thursday 1st April 2010
<hr />
Our vision is of a fair and equal society in which all Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual people can achieve their full potential. Based in Manchester, we serve over 40,000 Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual people across the North West region every year. Despite positive changes over the past decade, homophobia is still having devastating effects for our communities.
<h3>Why not learn more about volunteering?</h3>
We also have a range of <a href="https://www.lgf.org.uk/volunteer?tag=jobs," title="Volunteering opportunities">volunteering opportunities</a> available all year round.

The LGF's regional roadshow...are you on board?

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:50:00 +0000

One year on from the launch of the North West lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans strategy – Breaking the Cycle; the Lesbian & Gay Foundation are embarking on a regional roadshow, focussed around encouraging local authorities, lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans voluntary and community groups and strategic networks; to adopt the strategy and implement the recommendations in order to create change and improve the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people across the region. The Roadshow will be visiting Cheshire, Lancashire, Merseyside, and Cumbria before its final destination Greater Manchester. Whether you identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or heterosexual, work for the local authority, are involved in the voluntary and community sector, or quite simply want to help the LGBT community realise their potential...come along to your nearest roadshow.
<h2>The LGF Roadshow - when and where?</h2>
Cheshire 15 March 2010        1pm – 4pm Police Headquarters           Clemonds Way, Oakmere Rd, Winsford, Cheshire, CW7 2UA Lancashire 17 March 2010        1pm – 4pm Preston Council Voluntary Services       Units 23/27 Guild Hall Arcade, Lancaster Road, Preston,  PR1 1HR. Merseyside 18 March 2010        1pm – 4pm Epstein Learning and Development Centre Rear of Premier Court, 26 Hatton Garden, Liverpool, L3 2BR   Cumbria 22 March 2010        1pm – 4pm   The Wave Irish Street, Maryport, Cumbria, CA15 8AD. Greater Manchester 24 March 2010         1pm – 4pm The Lesbian & Gay Foundation            4th floor Princess House, 105 – 107 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 6DD.
Please email <a href="mailto:adam.winter@lgf.org.uk">adam.winter@lgf.org.uk </a>or telephone 0161 235 8023 to speak to Adam Winter for more information and to book on the event of your choice. If you are unable to make the event in your area; but would like to be involved, we would be more than happy for you to come along to an event in a different area.  If you have any specific access or dietary requirements, please notify us in advance by 10 March 2010 to enable us to make provision. A light lunch will be provided at each roadshow event. For more information on Breaking the Cycle - the North West lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans strategy - <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/breaking-the-cycle/" target="_blank">click here. </a>

Take action this International Women’s Day

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:35:00 +0000

This International Women’s Day it’s never been more important for women to make their voices heard; with the local and general elections just around the corner now is the perfect time for lesbian and bisexual women and their friends to take action and create change! Check out our top tips for being an action woman! VOTE – there is only one out lesbian/bisexual Member of Parliament in the UK, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t make our voices heard! Make sure you make your vote count at the forthcoming local and general elections, go to<a href="http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/" target="_blank"> www.aboutmyvote.co.uk</a>; to register to vote. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS – and don’t be afraid to use them! There are laws which mean that it is illegal to discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. This means – amongst other things - that you can’t be refused entry to a hotel because you are a lesbian or bisexual female couple, and you are entitled to a smear test! STOP HATE – Whether it’s violence against women or homophobia, challenge discrimination when you see it! If you need support the LGF Helpline is a third party hate crime reporting centre, call 0845 3 30 30 30 (local call rate) 6pm-10pm (Staffed), 10pm-6pm (automated system). CHALLENGE INEQUALITY – In 2010 the majority of men are still paid more than women, even for doing the same job! Also, there are more men in high profile positions and we are under represented in Parliament. Come on girls lets stand up and be counted! VOLUNTEER – One of the best ways of getting involved in public life is to volunteer. Use your talents to help make a difference to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans community by volunteering for the LGF. To find out more about volunteering,<a href="https://www.lgf.org.uk/volunteer?tag=" target="_blank"> click here</a>. BE VISIBLE – lesbian and bisexual women have made a massive contribution to society, but are rarely celebrated. If we all do just one of these top tips, we’ll be making our voices heard! Taking Action! And Creating Change! Sugar & Spice 4 – Women in Action! A huge thanks to all the action women (and their friends) who came along to yesterday’s Sugar & Spice event - The Lesbian & Gay Foundation’s International Women’s Day celebration. There was a Women in Action march through Manchester city centre, inspirational speakers in Sackville Gardens, and all girl comedy and music in Vanilla. Thanks to all the volunteers who made it happen!

Queer Up North highlights announced

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 09:00:00 +0000

To mark its 18th birthday Queer Up North is bringing back some key works from the festival’s history, alongside world premieres and some exciting new commissions. The extensive programme, will run across Manchester venues for 14 days from May 18th to the 31st and continues to be committed to providing a platform for new artists.
Ahead of the festival, Susan and Darren (29 April – 8 May, Sachas Hotel) re-work the highly acclaimed 2006 performance, created by dancer Darren Pritchard and his mum Susan, to wet our appetites for the full line-up; remade for 2010 the show reflects the changes in their relationship since its premiere. Susan and Darren throw a party in Sachas Hotel, complete with bar, disco and tempting buffet for the audience to enjoy before and after the performance. Full festival highlights include, Queer Up North favourite Christopher Green - the man behind Southern Belle Tina C - throwing the festival an 18th birthday party like no other on May 22nd. A homage to working mens’ clubs, Green and his dream team of guests, including Stockport housewife Mrs Barbara Nice, a new strip routine from Ursula Martinez and karaoke from Kazuko Hohki and her Frank Chickens will be celebrating in style. There’s also the chance to revisit the award winning 1995 smash hit, Road Movie (19 – 22 May, Library Theatre). Writer Godfrey Hamilton reworks this beautiful tale of love, travelling and loss, set against the AIDS crisis of the early 90s, with a tour de force performance by Mark Pinkosh. After a hugely successful debut in 2009 the La Gayola Spiegeltent is back (26 – 31 May, Sackville Street, Manchester) and in true Queer Up North fashion features an outrageous line-up of cabaret, burlesque and music.
For more information and updates, <a href="http://www.queerupnorth.com/" target="_blank">click here.</a>

Gaydio set for Summer Launch

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 14:54:00 +0000

On Saturday 6 March more than 50 people attended a meeting to promote the many opportunities available for those who would like to get involved with Gaydio, which has been given a five year licence by Ofcom to broadcast to the LGBT communities across Greater Manchester.
Ian Wallace and Toby Whitehouse are very much the driving force behind the station and while Ian looks after the business side of things, Toby concentrates on the programming.
Ian shared the idea behind Gaydio - that came from a trip to Australia when he had heard Beat FM a gay radio station in Sydney, which has sadly ceased broadcasting. Ian thought it would be great for Manchester to have it's own LGB&T station and soon met up with Toby to plan their first broadcast during Manchester Pride in 2006. Subsequent broadcasts in February 2007 proved that Gaydio could develop it's own content and the station returned to the airwaves to coincide with Manchester Pride in 2007 and 2008. In November 2008 the station was awarded the first ever licence for a UK community LGBT station to broadcast 24/7 and since then, Ian and Toby have been working to make sure that Gaydio is a sustainable business that can provide quality programming long term.
Who is Gaydio for? "
Toby - "It's about reflecting the needs of the LGBT community and for those who feel that their needs are not currently being met or their voices heard anywhere else".
 
 
Where will the new Gaydio be based?
All of the previous temporary broadcasts came from borrowed rooms at the Lesbian & Gay Foundation. This time Gaydio will have purpose built accommodation in new premises, although still within Manchester's gay village area. Toby took time to explain that although Gaydio was not a commercial station, it had to deliver social gain to the gay community in a way that would make it a station of choice for listeners.
Toby - "The LGBT community is quite demanding and Gaydio needs to compete with bigger stations".
 
 
Is there enough gay content to be talking about ?
Toby - "It's not just about gay issues but a gay sensibility". On covering gay news, "If there are things happening that are relevant we will talk about them. It's important that we recognise the diversity of our community, although life in the gay village is important, it isn't everything and this reflects the need to reach out to other listeners across other parts of Manchester."
 
 
How will Gaydio sound?
Many people have commented that they don't want a station that just plays Kylie or Madonna and this was addressed in terms of the station's music policy.
Toby - "It's vital that we connect with our audience. It needs to feel like you are going through a friends music collection, there will be things that you know and love, things that are new to you and things that might even be a bit cheesy".
He also acknowledged that there would be specialist programming and that the station's play list would be refreshed frequently. An important part of the station is to help provide opportunities for people interested in radio to develop their skills and both Ian and Toby outlined various opportunities from marketing to production that people can get involved with.
 
 
With 3 months to launch there is obviously lots to do and Gaydio has already got off to a fantastic start with almost 2,000 followers on it's Facebook site already. 
If you want to find out more, or get involved, checkout the Gaydio <a href="http://www.gaydio.co.uk/">website</a>

Relight My Fire

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 13:58:00 +0000

Dr Elizabeth White and Sister Zoe Lloyd are both women in business, have both trained with Paul McKenna, are both respected therapuetic practitioners, and now they have teamed up to bring pleasure beyond measure to lesbian and bisexual women whose love life could do with a bit of a boost! Liz identifies as straight and Zoe as gay, but the two friends have come together to help the lesbian and bisexual community to take advantage of the largest sex organ in our bodies…the brain. How did pleasure beyond measure come about? Zoe: Liz and I were talking, and she was telling me about a programme she done to help men with erectile dysfunction. I started talking about the phenomena of lesbian bed death – how if you’ve been in a relationship for a while some lesbian and bisexual female couples find it hard to keep up that initial excitement in their sex lives, often it’s a case of lack of imagination – we know what’s coming. Later that evening Liz said: “Why don’t I create something for the girls”? And Pleasure Beyond Measure was born. What is pleasure beyond measure? Liz: It’s a subliminal programme of positive language patterns which create a burst of your own natural love hormone “oxytocin” so you can’t help but get aroused. A lot of people don’t realise that the biggest sexual organ we have is the brain! Whether you’re lesbian, gay, bisexual, questioning or straight it’s often similar images and thoughts that turn us on. If you listen to the download 3 to 4 times a week you’ll definitely notice a change. Zoe: It’s been designed for lesbian and bisexual women to share and enjoy. It’s been extensively tried and tested in the lesbian and bisexual community. My partner Jan and I have been together for 14 years, we’re commited and have a civil partnership, but there was a point where things had got a bit routine in the bedroom. We tried out the programme and I can say that it absolutely worked. What about the future? Liz: We want women to try the programme out and see if it works for them, and we want to know what else we can do? In the future, they’ll be pleasure beyond measure downloads to help gay and bisexual men, and for the heterosexual community. It’s about exploring sexuality and what’s possible, and people realising that there is a massive overlap between all sexualities. To find out more about Pleasure Beyond Measure programme, including information on the download, the Female Sexual Fantasy Workbook and 69 Tips on How To Make Her Sex Life Super,<a href="http://www.pleasurebeyondmeasure.co.uk/index.php?lgf" target="_blank"> click here.</a> BEATING ABOUT THE BUSH: To find out more about sex and sexual health for women who have sex with women, <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/for-women/" target="_blank">click here.</a>
Photo's by Sarah Quinn

Superdrug to trial HIV testing

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0000

Superdrug are the first high street store to offer walk in HIV tests. The test costs £79.00 and uses a blood sample taken by pricking a finger tip and is 99.96% accurate. The chains’ London Piccadilly, Manchester, Brighton, Edinburgh, Croydon, Cardiff and Newcastle stores are to trial selling the blood test – which gives results in 1 minute - at clinics run by registered nurses at the participating stores. The test gives an indication of the result and the patient will require confirmation of a positive test result at their local clinic with a HIV specialist.  Leading HIV organisations have welcomed the move, Daniel Gomez, Community Engagement Manager at The Lesbian & Gay Foundation said: “As far as I’m concerned, anything to increase and encourage testing for HIV is a good thing. Early detection and diagnosis of can significantly improve health and the long-term effects of living with HIV. “£79.00 per test is rather dear considering that this same test is offered free of charge at Body Positive located here in Manchester, and that the more traditional HIV testing methods are also provided free of cost here at the LGF. I would encourage anyone who may be thinking about taking a HIV test to find the setting that is right for them.” Jason Warriner, Clinical Director of Terrence Higgins Trust added: “It’s vital that every one who’s been at risk of HIV is diagnosed, so we welcome the move to offer HIV testing on the high street. “A quarter of people living with HIV in the UK are unaware of their condition, so increasing testing options has an important role to play in managing and eventually reducing the HIV epidemic in the UK.” 
The Lesbian & Gay Foundation offer free HIV tests and sexual heath screening to gay and bisexual men, here are our forthcoming clinics:
LGF Sexual Health Outreach Clinic Every Monday, for times and locations, <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/directory/view/lgf-outreach-clinic" target="_blank">click here.</a> RU Clear? Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea testing programme for 16-24 year olds, for times and location, <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/r-u-clear/" target="_blank">click here.</a> LGF Late Night Sexual Health Screening, Wednesday 24 March (6pm -10pm), at the LGF, Princess House, 105-107 Princess Street, Manchester, M1 6DD.

North West Success at PinkPaper.com Awards

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 13:57:00 +0000

The results are in from the latest Pink Paper Readers' Awards. The publication's Editor, Tris Reid-Smith said: "Our readers have voted in record numbers making this year the most competitive ever and maintaining our position as the biggest, best and most democratic awards in gay Britain.
"To get all that support, our winners are clearly pretty special and, remember, all the runners up have already come through a first round of voting so they are among the best too. Big congratulations to everyone and a big thank you for voting."
Here is a quick round up of how the North West's nominees faired!
Best Bar or Pub Taurus Bar, Manchester (2nd) Legends, Manchester (3rd) Best Black or Minority Ethnic Night Homiesexual, Manchester (2nd) Black Angel, Manchester ( 4th) Best Women's Venue Vanilla, Manchester (1st) Coyotes, Manchester (4th) Best Restaurant or Cafe Velvet, Manchester (1st) Taurus, Manchester (4th) Best Gay Social Group Ice Breakers, Manchester (2nd) Best Gay Sports Group Village Spartans, Manchester (1st) Best University LGBT Society Manchester University (2nd) Manchester Metropolitan University (4th) Liverpool John Moores University (5th) Best Youth Group Queer Youth Network, National (1st) Best Older LGBT Group Out In The City, Manchester (1st) Armistead Centre, Liverpool (5th) Best Festival or Pride Event Manchester Pride (1st) Gay Sports Event of the Year Pride Games, Manchester (1st) Top British Destination Manchester (2nd) Blackpool (5th) Best Health Information Provider Lesbian and Gay Foundation (3rd) Best University, College or School Salford University (2nd) Liverpool John Moore's University (4th) Liverpool University (5th) Best Council or Local Authority Manchester City Council(1st) Best Police Force Greater Manchester Police (1st) Merseyside Police (4th) Best Fire and Rescue Service Greater Manchester Fire Brigade (1st) Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (4th) Best Ambulance Service North West Ambulance Service (2nd)
To see all the winners click <a href="http://news.pinkpaper.com/NewsStory.aspx?id=2501&xtra=email&dm_i=3XT,3RL0,RN1FW,BPJV,1" title="blocked::http://news.pinkpaper.com/NewsStory.aspx?id=2501&xtra=email&dm_i=3XT,3RL0,RN1FW,BPJV,1">HERE</a>.

UPDATE: Faith Groups Welcome Lord's Amendment

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:39:00 +0000

The vote was passed in the House of Lords on Tuesday 2 March, by 95 votes to 21.  The <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/lords-vote-in-favour-of-allowing-civil-partnerships-in-religious-premises/" target="_blank">amendment to the Equality Bill</a> was jointly sponsored by the Unitarians, Liberal Judaism and the <a href="http://www.manchesterquakers.org.uk/">Quakers</a>, with support from other inclusive religious communities such as the <a href="http://www.mccmanchester.co.uk/">Metropolitan Community Church</a>. Aron C Sterk, Deputy Chair of <a href="http://www.mljc.org.uk/">Manchester Liberal Jewish Community</a> says, "Our community is committed to accepting and welcoming all Jews regardless of their sexuality with equal rights and dignity. We welcome this extension to religious freedom in UK and look forward to being able to have our rites legally recognised.
"This is an enormously important step forward towards full marriage equality. We are very proud of Liberal Judaism for sponsoring this amendment. MLJC will be registering for civil partnerships as soon as the Commons passes the new Act."
Liberal Judaism is one of three major strands of the Jewish faith, preserving the core beliefs and practices that underpin the religion, but believing that ancient laws must be interpreted to ensure that ethical values and practices take account of what we know about the world as it is today.  Ethical behaviour and social action take priority over ritual." The Reverend Jane Barraclough, minister of Cross Street Unitarian Chapel in Manchester city centre, was enthusiastic about the news: "At last (if the bill is passed) liberal people of faith can register their partnerships in their places of worship.  We can welcome all those who share our progressive and tolerant values to our churches and chapels and celebrate the blessing of their relationships and their lives together."
<a href="http://www.unitarian.org.uk/index.shtml">Unitarianism</a> in Britain grew out of the radical Christian dissenting movement in the seventeenth century and has no set beliefs among its members. Today, Unitarians are encouraged to find spiritual truth in their lives for themselves. Equality, diversity and justice are core values for both Liberal Jews and Unitarians. Both movements have welcomed LGB&T people into their congregations for many years.  Openly LGB&T people participate fully in community life and leadership in both movements, which includes some serving as rabbis and ministers. Both movements are to begin amending orders of service for same-sex commitment ceremonies. Tim Moore, a member of Cross Street Chapel and Associate Member of MLJC added, "I am very proud to be so closely involved in two of the inclusive religious movements who have taken a unified stand for equality and tolerance and against prejudice and discrimination.  The latest amendment on civil partnerships is just one more success in the growing national campaign for full marriage equality for LGBT people.   "Liberal Jews, Unitarians, Quakers and their supporters have witnessed to their faith based on conscience, guided by reason, and tested in welcoming communities.  We will continue working with our partners on looking into ways of furthering the campaign in the North West for marriage equality."
Andrew Gilliver, Communication's Manager at The Lesbian & Gay Foundation, said: "The passing of this amendment is an important step forward for LGB&T equality and LGB&T people of faith, but these rights will only be secured with the passing of the Equality Bill.
Once these rights are secured, the next challenge is ensuring marraige equality for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. We believe in an equal and fair society where lesbian, gay and bisexual people have the right, if they wish, to marry in the same way that heterosexual people can."
RELIGION AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION MASTERCLASS: Confused about religion and sexual orientation and how they sit together on the equalities agenda? Come to the LGF's Keep the Faith Masterclass, for more information, <a href="come-to-training-at-the-lgf/" target="_blank">click here.</a>
For further information and enquiries, please contact Tim Moore of Cross Street Chapel and MLJC. E-mail <a href="mailto:t.j.moore@dunelm.org.uk" title="blocked::mailto:t.j.moore@dunelm.org.uk">t.j.moore@dunelm.org.uk</a>

HIV Testing in Manchester

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 09:44:00 +0000

Due to forces beyond our control the Lesbian and Gay Foundation have had to cancel the rapid HIV testing clinic scheduled for Thursdays until further notice.
However, there are other services in Central Manchester that offer a similar service
If you are a gay or bisexual man having sex,then you should test for HIV at least once a year.Knowing your HIV status means you can move on with your life.It's that simple.
If you need more information, or would like to have an HIV test, please call Manchester Centre for Sexual Health on 0161 276 5200 or try <a href="http://www.bpnw.org.uk/" target="_blank">Body Positive's </a>instant HIV testing for gay and bisexual men at Spirit Bar on Canal Street (Wednesdays Only) 12-5pm. You can walk in and there is no appointment needed.  
Body Positive also offer testing every Wednesday at their Whalley Range premises between 1-8pm - Appointment Only.
To book an appointment call 0161 882 22000 or email: <a href="mailto:">go4it@bpnw.org.uk</a>
LGF Late Night Sexual Health Screening: There will be a special sexual health screening service at the Lesbian & Gay Foundation on 24th March between 6-10pm. The service is supported by NHS and operates from The Lesbian & Gay Foundation (Princess House, 105-107 Princess Street), in Manchester's gay village.
LGF Sexual Health Outreach Clinic: LGF's sexual health outreach clinics for gay and bisexual men continue every Monday, the next clinic takes place at H20 Sauna (Under Clone Zone, Sackville Street, Manchester) on Monday March 8 between 1pm - 4pm. For more information on the LGF outreach clinic, <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/directory/view/lgf-outreach-clinic" target="_blank">click here.</a>
If you would like more information on LGF's Sexual Health services please contact Peter Boyle on 0161 235 8032 or e-mail: <a href="mailto:">peter.boyle@lgf.org.uk</a>
To find out where your nearest HIV or sexual health clinic is, or for more information on HIV testing go <a href="http://www.betterclinics.co.uk/">here</a>.
If you are affected by HIV and living in the North West, <a href="http://www.ght.org.uk/our-services/">George House Trust</a> offer a wide range of high quality services, completely free of charge.

Lords vote in favour of allowing civil partnerships in religious premises

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:50:00 +0000

Late last night Stonewall's amendment to the Equality Bill - to permit civil partnerships to be held in religious premises - was passed in the House of Lords by 95 votes to 21. <a href="http://www.stonewall.org.uk/" target="_blank">Stonewall </a>Chief Executive Ben Summerskill said: "For those denominations involved - including Quakers and the Liberal Jews - this is a very important step forward and, as we argued throughout, an important matter of religious freedom.   This vote is also hugely important to those lesbian and gay people of faith (and, as Lady Neuberger pointed out, to their Jewish mothers too!) who wish to celebrate their civil partnerships in their own place of worship." Lord Waheed Alli tabled the amendment for and peers across parties supported the measure. Summerskill continued: "Sadly, the government continued to oppose the amendment. Ministers have known for some months that we intended to table this measure and we regret that the government didn't stand up to the bullying it had faced from the Church of England and Roman Catholic Church on this issue. We'll now work closely with ministers to ensure that we secure implementation of this further step towards equality." The amendment being passed is all the more encouraging considering the Lords voted against the government amendment which would have prohibited religious establishment denying jobs to people on the grounds of sexual orientation. Last night's Lord's decision is a step forward for LGBT people of faith, but marriage equality for lesbian, gay and bisexual people remains a step away.
The Equality Bill is currently working its way through Parliament.
Gay rights, means equal rights, so surely shouldn't we be given the opportunity to get married? Or are civil partnerships adequate recognition of our love and relationships?  Have your say in the comments box below.
RELIGION AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION MASTERCLASS: Confused about religion and sexual orientation and how they sit together on the equalities agenda? Come to the LGF's Keep the Faith Masterclass, for more information, <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/come-to-training-at-the-lgf/" target="_blank">click here.</a>

Kristian Digby 1977-2010

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 20:53:00 +0000

The death of TV presenter Kristian Digby has come as a shock to his many fans as it has done to those who knew him. Kristian was popular with millions of TV viewers for his work on shows such as 'To Buy or Not to Buy', 'Living In The Sun', 'Buy It, Sell It, Bank It' and 'House Swap' to name just a few. He was also an award-winning film director and property developer.
Always open about his homosexuality, Kristian was a handsome, smart, charming and inspirational figure for many people. He presented 'That Gay Show' in 2001 and in 2006 he appeared in Simon Fanshawe's documentary, 'The Trouble with Gay Men' on BBC Three saying that he was sad about the lack of gay role models for young gay people.
Julian Bennett, fellow broadcaster and friend told the BBC: "He did so much for the gay community...He appealed to the masses. He was well educated. He made gay acceptable to the middle class and that was a tough thing to do...Being gay has never been a problem for him. He was a gentleman."
Alistair Appleton, a fellow BBC presenter added: "Kristian was a fine, charming, complex, rather dazzling man. TV is duller and straighter and drearier without him. I was proud to have met him, hung out with him, known him a little."
<a href="http://attitude.co.uk">Attitude </a>magazine who had known Kristian for the last ten years said that they were 'profoundly saddened' at his passing. "Lovely, inside and out, Kristian was someone who really cared about the fact that he presented a positive image to young gay people growing up."
Kristian Digby was also an active and proud patron of the <a href="http://www.akt.org.uk">Albert Kennedy Trust</a> the charity which was set up to help homeless LGBT's after Albert Kennedy fell to his death 20 years ago from a Manchester multi storey car park, after being chased by a group of homophobic youths.
AKT Chief Executive Tim Sigsworth said: "All of us at the Albert Kennedy Trust are saddened to hear the news that our patron Kristian Digby has died.  Kristian was an incredible supporter of our cause and had genuine empathy for our young people and the work we do.  It is thanks to Kristian’s talent as a performer that we were able to raise much needed funds at our events where he played the role of both ambassador and auctioneer.  At our last fundraiser hosted by Simmons & Simmons & InterLaw, we remember Kristian talking to as many people as possible about our work and thanking them for attending. This was the Kristian we knew and loved: always passionate and supportive of AKT.  He will be missed by all at AKT and our thoughts and sympathy goes out to his friends and family."

40+ Fairy Tales of the Gay VIllage

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:00:00 +0000

Here Paul has allowed us a sneak, edited preview of his report which will be completed early next year.
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Sad, Bad or Just Plain Mad? What's the issue? Although gay men in their middle years  tend to use the gay scene less (but more selectively) with age, it would be a mistake to think that men over 40 are not still a force to be reckoned with,  both in numbers and what they do when they play out.
The naughtiness they can get away with depends on the venue, time and day of the week! However growing older on the gay scene does present some unique questions.
Does anyone want a fairy when he's over 40? 
How do our social lives change as we age? 
Do older gay men feel rejected by a youth-dominated bar and club scene?
Does this force us to 'retire' from the Village scene to maiden aunt knitting circles, sedate dinner parties and so on?
 What do older gay men think of the Manchester gay scene and what do they do on it or how do they feel if and when they go out? 
Manchester's Gay Village is known as a vibrant, mixed 'cosmopolitan' space. It is an energetic, changeable urban space. But, we should not mistake the 'vibe' for diversity. There are limits to the cultural mix.
Non-white interviewees and my observations indicate that the Village bar scene is mainly a white space, which suggests that non-white gay men can feel unwelcome in the Village, for various reasons.

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Does anyone want a fairy when he's over 40?
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The Village is also off-limits to older gay men without the financial means! You probably won't be surprised to hear that the Village scene appears roughly zoned by age. But, different, unspoken rules apply, at different times of the day or night, days of the week and in different spaces about how we dress, behave or misbehave in any bar, whatever our age.
Observations showed that some older gay men are certainly having a ball - ageing 'disgracefully' on the scene, although the general trend is that we become much less attached to the scene as we grow older. Certain age-coded venues seem to call for or be associated with styles of dress, display, behaviour etc. Where we go to in the Village can subconsciously dictate how we dress to go out.
How we feel about the Village can depend on a range of things - social class, our relationship entanglements, home and work commitments etc. It can change over time as we grow older, gain or lose a boyfriend or an income, develop new interests, values etc.
The study has identified three main (and sometimes overlapping) ways of talking about and interacting on the Village scene.
<h2>Tales of misery and disenchantment</h2>
The scene is no place to grow old. The main story in interviews was that the scene is very age conscious. Again, age marks the fault lines that divide us into 'territories.' Some bars/clubs have undeniably become associated with younger or older men. Here are some points of view.
<h3>Tony  (Age 59)</h3>
Tony took issue with the Village's invisible (though very real) age barriers when he asked: "What makes it younger men's territory? Bullshit! We should all be able go to Cruz and do it in the same dance floor at the same time!"
Even if clubbing is not your thing, who wouldn't applaud Tony's defiance? He raises an important political question and poses a challenge to all of us regardless of age, ethnicity, class, sexuality, dis/ability etc about how we could put the 'community' into 'gay.' Working across differences to forge a more inclusive form of gay culture is a major political question for LGBT people/groups.
But, there are reasons why that political project has not really taken off.
<h3>Sam  (Age 45)</h3>
Sam  forcefully says, we can be reduced to nothing more than our ageing bodies:It's completely worked out bodies... beautiful, white, shining teeth... It's all youth, body, fitness... Yes, people might admit that they've got a little bit more wisdom but who needs wisdom when you can get a nice firm pair of buttocks?
The scene can be a place of isolation (even when you are in company), risk, jealousy, betrayal, and is an all-round destroyer of intimacies.
It is a place where we are more likely to experience ridicule than support/uplift.
<h3>Clive (Age 45)</h3>
Clive catches superbly the irony in the fact that we have demanded respect from heterosexual people yet neglected even derided our 'own' kind: The gay scene isn't the most friendly of places...
Given the opportunity to put somebody down, especially among our own peer group, we're actually very good at it. And we've spent an awful lot of time... rightly, demanding respect and understanding from the straight community... whilst actually forgetting that we don't look after each other very well.
In fact, I have had far more respect off the straight community. 
<h2>Tales of mixed pleasures and dangers</h2>
This story of the scene is more ambivalent, looking simultaneously at the Village's pleasures and dangers, its opportunities and threats. More than half of the men interviewed reported that to taste the scene's delights means having to give up, deny or downplay some of the more thoughtful, intellectual and 'authentic' aspects of themselves before entering the Village.
Also in this account of the Village, the gaze of others is double-edged, ambivalent. Whilst it can mean, risk, hostility, constraint (literally paralysing) or cause for suspicion of others, looking, being looked at or both together can also mean that we still count as social and sexual beings.

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How do our social lives change as we age? 
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We might welcome looking/being looked at on these terms but the other side of the gaze - imagined or actual - produces self-protective/defensive behaviours. Further, within the pleasure dome, there are some very real social connections between younger and older gay men but these can be constrained by certain 'approved' ways in which older men are allowed to look at, approach and touch their younger counterparts.
Ways of interacting in some mixed age groups suggest that older men might carefully choreograph (with kid gloves) how they regard and touch younger men - almost as if younger men had a protective layer that should not be breached. This indicates that when older men touch younger men, they unconsciously avoid breaking the unspoken boundary between what is social friendship (sharing a drink/dance etc) and what is sexual. You can look and touch but as long as you don't touch too much or make a move.
These unspoken age norms can police the kind of contact that occurs between gay men of different generations.
<h3>Tales of delight: the Village as convivial culture</h3>
The main story emerging from observation sessions presents a very different picture of the Village as more convivial space. It is an antidote to the sorry saga of the scene as unadulterated misery where ageing selves are constrained/disciplined.
Much of what I saw supplied an antidote to the unthinking, selfish individualism that we can meet on the scene and which, sadly, ends up tainting, obscuring or negating all the nice experiences we may have had. The scene can offer spectacle, fun and care for others - body and soul. It is a human sensorium combining sensual pleasures and exciting movement, which offers clues as to why the energy of the Village has a continuing allure for some midlife/older men.
In this version of the scene, looking, being looked at or both at the same time can indicate empathy, desire, love, mischievous cruising, benign humour, admiration of appearance/grace and expressions of kindness.
<h3>Ageing as a gay man is NOT all about misery and loneliness</h3>
'Doing' gay male ageing involves just as many opportunities to re-create ourselves by being with and there for others - mostly with those of a similar age but sometimes with younger gay men/people.
Creating ways of being/doing together (if only informal) can provide us with the emotional resources to challenge negative definitions of us as 'old queens' or has-beens. Much of this suggests some hope for a less age-divided gay culture.
Indeed, there are signs in the Village that age can be seen as a form of difference but one that is of little consequence and which fades into the background while people get on with their actual lives - just go to the Prairie Dogs! <a href="http://www.manchesterprairiedogs.co.uk/">www.manchesterprairiedogs.co.uk</a>
<h2>More about this Study</h2>
Paul interviewed 27 men who differ by social class, ethnicity and relationship status (single, partnered etc). The study also draws on 19 observation sessions that took place between Pride 2008 and September 2009. These were carried out in Village streets and five venues popular with older queens, seven venues 'mixed' by age, class, sex, sexuality etc. and one venue associated with younger queens.
The final report (early 2011) will also say something about aspects of our lives away from the scene. It will also cover the wider gay scene, such as saunas, social/support groups and the 'virtual scene' of Gaydar and the like.
For more information please contact <a href="mailto:Paul.Simpson@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk">Paul.Simpson@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk</a>.
If you found this interesting you may also like these articles on gay men growing older <a href="/">http://www.lgf.org.uk/how-do-mid-life-to-older-gay-men-deal-with-growing-older/</a>;
<a href="/">http://www.lgf.org.uk/opinion-no-spring-chicken/</a>;

Homophobic law for Lithuania

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 21:56:00 +0000

The "Law on the Protection of Minors against the Detrimental Effect of Public Information", was originally adopted on 14 July 2009, and criticised by <a href="http://www.amnesty.org">Amnesty International</a> and other international organisations, including the European Parliament, for containing homophobic and discriminatory provisions.
John Dalhuisen, Amnesty International's expert on discrimination, said: "This law will violate the freedom of expression and will directly discriminate against people on account of their sexual orientation or gender identity...It will stigmatise gay and lesbian people and exposes advocates for their rights to the risk of censorship and financial penalties."
Vladimir Simonko, head of the <a href="http://www.lgl.lt/indexe.php">Lithuanian Gay League</a> added: "From now on, any of our public events could fall under that clause and be banned."<a href="http://www.lgl.lt/indexe.php"></a>
In its original version the law, adopted on 14 July 2009, prohibited the publication of "information which agitates for homosexual, bisexual and polygamous relations" in places, including schools, public spaces and media which are accessible to persons under 18 years of age."
President Dalia Grybauskaite had expressed opposition to the original bill in July: "I'm very much upset that such kind of laws in Lithuania are possible," she said. In the light of international criticism and the misgivings of the Lithuanian President, the law was amended on 28 December 2009.
All direct references to the promotion of homosexuality have been removed. However, the amended law now classifies any information which "denigrates family values" or which "encourages a concept of marriage and family other than stipulated in the Constitution ... and the Civil Code of the Republic of Lithuania" as detrimental to children and consequently bans it from places accessible to them. As marriage is defined in Lithuanian law as the union of a man and a woman, any public promotion of same-sex partnerships, or advocacy for equality in marriage, would be prohibited under the new law.
For more on LGBT rights in the UK, <a href="http://www.lgf.org.uk/legislation/" target="_blank">click here.</a>
<a href="http://ilga.org/ilga/en/countries/LITHUANIA/Law">For more on the law affecting LGBT people in Lithuania </a>