Lesbian, Gay, Bi and Trans UK

London Transfeminist Group: Pre-Zucker Protest Meeting

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 22:14:19 GMT

The London Transfeminist Group is meeting this Thursday, 25th of September, in order for those planning to protest the invitation of controversial American-Canadian doctor, Kenneth Zucker, to keynote the Royal Society of Medicine's discussion on treatment of transgendered adolescents on October 1st.

Kenneth Zucker is infamous within the trans community for using what many feel to be aversion therapy on children as young as three, who show "gender variant" behaviour. Some of us feel that subjecting any child, yet alone those so young, to "treatment" which involves confiscating their favourite toys and forbidding them contact with their best friends amounts to psychologically abusing these children. We further feel that in engaging with this treatment, Dr Zucker is pandering to the homophobic and transphobic fears of the parents of these children that they might "grow up gay", or "grow up to be trans".

We further feel that the Royal Society of Medicine brings itself into disrepute by inviting someone who subjects children to treatment which harkens back to a dark age of abuse of queer and gender-variant people by the mental health community. Regardless of whether Dr Zucker is sometimes in favour of trans-positive treatment for adolescents, such as the use of puberty blocking drugs, inviting this man to present the keynote shows a woeful lack of respect for trans and queer people in the UK, and sends the message that "doctors" who are prepared to engage in reparative and aversion therapy against queer and gender-variant people are still tolerated and respected amongst their peers.

Please join us for a pre-protest discussion of this issue, as well as collaborating in producing leaflets, placards, etc. for the protest at Gays The Word Bookshop, Marchmont Street, this Thursday at 7:30 pm.

FAO: Anyone off to Manchester Pride

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:59:10 GMT

FAO: ANYONE OFF TO MANCHESTER (UK) PRIDE (If you happen to be Jewish or have a interest in Judaism)

On Friday night (Erev Shabbat) we (Keshet) are organising a service and party at Cross Street Unitarian Chapel.

On Saturday we will be marching

For more information, please add Keshet Manchester as a friend on Facebook or phone 07528 700926 or email mc.keshet@btinternet.com

Global Queer Rights - Take Action!!!

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:41:25 GMT

"People around the world face violence and inequality – and sometimes torture, even execution – because of who they love, how they look, or who they are. Sexual orientation and gender identity are integral aspects of our selves and should never lead to discrimination or abuse. More than 80 countries around the world still make it a crime for men to have sex with men, or women with women. In some countries, the punishment is death. Many laws punish people for simply looking differently, or not living up to cultural norms of “masculinity” or “femininity.

The Yogyakarta Principles – named for the Indonesian city where they were adopted in 2006 by a panel of international experts – lay out clear standards for how governments should end violence, abuse, and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, and ensure equality. We urge the United Nations to endorse the Yogyakarta Principles, and to call for an end to violence and abuse based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Tell the world’s governments to stop criminalizing people because of who they are or whom they love."

TAKE ACTION BELOW:
http://queersunited.blogspot.com/2008/06/take-action-urge-united-nations-to.html

Queer Liberationist or Gay Assimilationist?

Mon, 19 May 2008 13:39:11 GMT

There are two opposing political viewpoints when it comes to advocacy and than of course there are a variety of more moderate middleground opinions that fall in between the Queer Liberationists and Gay Assimilationist camps.

Gay Assimilationists - This ideology is to make gay/lesbian people seem like average, normal everyday citizens in the eyes of the general public. They want to make the case that gay families deserve equal rights and recognition and they want what everyone else wants: a house with a white picket fence and 2.5 kids. Some Gay Assimilationists are not inclusive of Bisexuals or Transgender people because they feel these groups hurt the gay rights movement. This is not the case for all Assimilationists and many seek to include all LGBT people and create a sense of assimilation into the general society. Gay Assimilationists often seek to advance their agenda through corporate sponsorships and see getting big business and government on their side as a way to advance equality. The assimilationists strive to paint the LGBT community as being no different than the heterosexual world and just want to fit in. They want the rights to marriage, the rights to adoption, to serve freely and openly in the military. Part of achieving these means, Gay Assimilationists seek to tone down the sexual aspect of gay pride, they feel that sexuality is one component of gay relationships and seek to emphasize much more the loving, financial, community, and faith based aspects of LGBT relationships.

Queer Liberationists - This camp of political theory views gender and sexuality in non-conformist ways. They do not apologize for the differences of Queer individuals and do not seek to "fit in". They embrace the idea of "We're Here, We're Queer, Get Used to it!" and believe society must change to accept them rather than they change to mold into hetero-normative society. Queer Liberationists are often but not always concerned with Queer issues as they relate not only to LGBT people but also to capitalism, anti-militarism, sexism, racism and other aspects of social justice. They are less concerned with same-sex marriage, adoption, and don't ask don't tell. Many times but not always they are against the institution of marriage altogether, feel gays are liberated from the idea of raising kids, and are against gays serving in the military because they are anti-military to begin with. Queer Liberationists often disagree with the idea of corporate partnerships and having big business and government intervene in LGBT issues. Queer Liberationists do not seek to hide their sexuality and gender expression, they seek to embrace it and encourage what has conventionally been frowned upon as inappropriate.

These are two diametrically opposed political camps. Most people have various opinions that don't fall so heavily into one party or the other. Where do you lie and what are your thoughts?

http://queersunited.blogspot.com/2008/05/open-forum-queer-liberationist-or-gay.html

Free Speech Where do We Draw the Line?

Tue, 13 May 2008 13:47:08 GMT

A few interesting and controversial headlines have popped up in the news and the gay blogosphere that raise some important questions. At what point is gay activism intruding upon free speech and freedom of expression rights? Freedom of speech and expression must be protected even for anti-gay forces, because if we don't have these basic freedoms it becomes a slippery slope and eventually we will not have the right to express our opinions.

I write this in light of some stories recently, such as a student who wore a t-shirt to school saying "Be Happy - Not Gay!" at a diversity event, who got in trouble. The courts have since ruled she is entitled to wear the shirt.

What about Crystal Dixon's case with the University of Toledo V.P. of Human Resources who outside the university wrote an opinion column denouncing homosexuality, claiming it is a choice. She has been fired under grounds that she mentioned she was a worker at the school and is now suing the school.

Finally there was the case at Smith College, where the College Republicans brought in Ryan Sorba who created a book called "The Born Gay Hoax" who spoke about bogus research regarding LGBT people. Students interrupted his anti-gay speech by screaming "We're Here, We're Queer, get used to it" the student protesters overwhelmed the room forcing Mr. Sorba to leave the campus and cancel his speech.

Youtube clip of the Smith protest:

What do you think about GLBT activism and where do we draw the line to ensure free speech rights, or is it okay to intrude upon the free speech of others when they seek to intrude on our civil liberties and spread falsehoods about our community?

http://queersunited.blogspot.com/2008/05/open-forum-free-speech-where-do-we-draw.html

Human Fertilisation Act

Fri, 09 May 2008 09:31:25 GMT

(Mods, don't really know if this is appropriate for this community. If not, please feel free to delete.)

Hi, everyone. As some of you may now, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill is going to be debated in the House of Commons throughout May. If passed, the Bill will mean that same-sex couples will automatically be recognised as parents of any children conceived and born in their relationships (at the moment, the non-biological parent has to adopt the child to acquire full legal parenthood, which can be a fairly complicated process). It will also replace the current obligation of fertility clinics to consider 'the need for a father' with a requirement to consider the need for 'supportive parenting', which means there'd no longer be a legal requirement/excuse to discriminate against lesbian couples and single women.

I know not everyone who is in a same-sex relationship wants children, and some are more interested in adopting than conceiving, but I figured that some of you would benefit from this Bill. If so, you may want to write to your MP and ask them to vote in favour. You can find who your MP is and how to contact them here.

Introducing Queers United

Mon, 05 May 2008 05:23:53 GMT

The LGBT activist blog...

http://www.queersunited.blogspot.com

Anyone form Bristol?

Sun, 04 May 2008 14:39:40 GMT

Hi!

I´m a 28 years old portuguese "girl" recently moved to the uk (Bristol), genderqueer, pansexual.. more info on my userinfo page :)
I´ve been here for a month only yet and would love to know lgbt folks from around town.

C.

a little help

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 15:02:29 GMT

Could someone please recommend any good clubs, pubs, bars, meeting places, they do exist, right? in Wolverhampton? Or a good meeting/gathering place in Birmingham?

I need to finally get out there and start meeting other gays, and I am in need of pointers where to go.

I can't help being dense, the Lord made me dense, so it isn't my fault *g*

Me and my womb

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 23:10:39 GMT

Together Cherry Pop have worked on photographic projects surrounding the issues of disabled women and the wide range of body image issues women with mental health impairments experience. Cherry Pop are now working on a short film that moves on from body images issues and over to how disabled women feel about their womb.

Cherry Pop Productions are now seeking disabled women to contribute to the documentary entitled "Me and my Womb".

Brought to the attention of the media recently was the story of Katie, a 15 year old girl with Cerebral Palsy, who’s mother fears she may experience painful periods and is therefore requesting a hysterectomy.

Katie’s CP means she is unable to walk, hold her head or communicate with speech. Assumed to have profound learning impairments, Katie’s mother is concerned no one will be able to explain to her why she is teary, craving chocolate, bleeding or in pain.

As expected, this news story has raised some serious questions surrounding the care of young girls with impairments and how their development into young women should be treated.

Cherry Pop Production are therefore looking for women with impairments of all ages to take part in a film where we will explore the moral, legal, political and ethical issues this situation has raised.
Do we, disabled women, have the right to a womb? Regardless of your desire for children or your decision to not have them, how do you feel about your womb?

Would you like to contribute?

We need for you to either send us a *pre-recorded video of your story or for an interview to be arranged to take place in either London, Cambridge or Manchester by Febuary 1st 2008. Please feel free to pass this to all who might be interested.

Please contact Jo Barnes on 07793737489 or Imogen.Jo@Gmail.com for more information.

*Pre-recorded video can either be done on DV tape and send via post or on a web cam and sent in an e mail. Your tapes should not exceed 15mins and tapes will only be returned if sent with a S.E.A.

PrideSmile

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 12:02:16 GMT

Any gift you want...
You got it...

Click on smile ! :)

Leeds Pride

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 11:26:41 GMT

Just a quick note to let people know that it is the 2nd Leeds Pride this sunday (august 5th) starting at 12noon in Millenium Square

more information www.leedspride.com

Thanet Pride

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 20:26:58 GMT

I don't think anyone here is from the area, but I figure this post can't hurt anyway.

This Saturday Margate is having it's first Gay Pride. It'll be from 11am - 7pm around Albert Terrace, Margate seafront and the old town.

Personally I've never been to a Pride festival so I don't know what to expect, especially as this is the first here.

Further details are at the Thanet Pride website.

Hello!

Tue, 10 Jul 2007 03:21:10 GMT

I'm a Yank and I am immigrating to the UK in September.

I'd am curious about London clubs and bars that are a) trans friendly (transgender and transsexual specifically, not only cross dressers and drag queens, Gods' bless them) and b) friendly to Arab people and people of nonwhite descent.

Thanks so much. Cheers!

Fri, 29 Jun 2007 13:31:46 GMT

hey!
i recently became mod of a community called art_fag

"This community exists to unite artistic and unique gay people."

its been around since 2001; but as of recent has been lacking. I'm trying to bring new life to it. so check it out. join it if you want.

thanks!

London Pride

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 19:01:28 GMT

What are all you UKers going to be up to?

I'm going to be holding the flag with some friends in the parade earlier on in the day - then a load of us are hanging around the Women's Stage in Romilly Street in Soho. It kicks off at 3pm so come find us all!

The full line-up is:

15:00 DJ: Lil Jo (Channel 4 Shipwrecked, Miss-Shapes and PLAY)
15:25 Band: Lilths Army
15:45 DJ: Cautious (Freedom)
16:20 Comedian Zoe Lyons (Pride Patron)
16:40 DJ: Lea Andrews (Lower the Tone, OCD)
17:00 Band: Invocal
17:20 Comedian Rosie Wilby.
17:40 Band: The Veez
18:00 DJ: Caz Coronel (Candy Bar)
18:25 Band: Salt Peter
18:45 DJ: Sandra D (Queer Alternative, Miss-Shapes, PLAY)
19:10 Band: Low Fi Girl
19:30 HEADLINE BAND: Voodoo Hussy NME Breaking Bands Finalist.

There's also an official after party at PLAY in Essence Bar in Barbican. We've got a late licence, we'll be bringing you special raunchy performances from the infamous Kill Pussy and the Hussy Girls, as well as London SMUT girls strutting their stuff!

For more information about PLAY visit their myspace - http://www.myspace.com/_clubplay

Hope to see some of you there! It's going to be a wild party!

Tue, 19 Jun 2007 16:57:01 GMT

Hello there. So I don't have to bore you with a long description of myself, here's a link to my myspace for reference: www.myspace.com/sazi_medea

I've been looking for a group of this sort for quite a while and this seems a rather nice sort of place to meet people and exchange stories. In advance, I'm sure it'll be lovely to meet you all.

Model call...

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 11:03:06 GMT

Hi all!

I'm looking for 2 or 3 Butch looking dykes (age 18-30) Size 16 and up the bulkier the better...to shoot a small scene in west London for an Australian based glossy alternative magazine called slit (it's available to purchase in Camden)

This is not a paid gig-your photos will be sent to Australia to be submitted for the mag..... it will all be done in one day - you must have all our own clothes...

The shoot requires-

The look: - Funky off beat hair styles. Colourful is okay. Facial piercing’s, upper arm tattoos (the more Alternative the better (also Rock-a-Billy /Punk ) think 50’s to 80’s)

The clothes: - Jeans, black /white t-shirt..(Sleeveless if possible) chains on jeans, big black boots... flag or bandanna in back pocket ect...

Setting the scene: - The set up is Girl Gangs in London

You will be in a scene with 3 or 4 other butches, and a femme girl…you will be showing suggestive ganging up on a "princess in distress" in an alley. It may incorporate suggestive bashing/robbing ...no real violence will be needed!! (I can’t stress this enough)

What’s in it for you? : - You will get a set of your pictures on a DISC as a thank you.

Abilities: - you need not of acted/modelled before…but some idea of taking direction, and acting the part of a gang member would be helpful- as there won’t be much time for coaching.

If this sounds like something you you'd be interested in - please drop me an email at Sapphiredesigns@gmail.com with a head shot, and a body shot of your self. - I don't care how candid they are.

Just so you all know I'm legit - I have a website you can visit- I won't post it here- in case of self advertisement-but email me , and I’ll be happy to pass it along.

Many Thanks in advance!

Sapphire Designs Team

X-posted

Glass Bar and bi women

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 16:06:29 GMT

Now that the Glass Bar in Euston has closed its doors, where do the Bi London Women meet?? anyone know?

Used to be wed nights at the Glass - now what?

Thanks :)

Hello!

Sun, 03 Jun 2007 22:49:09 GMT

Hello everybody,

I have something quite embarassing to admit...I have a serious lack of local LGB friends, it's bordering on tragic! I came to this starling discovery when I decided that I wanted to go to Pride in London this year and I had no-one to go with.

So I know that it is desperate, but what the Hell...anybody wanna be my friend??? :-D

(Only those local to Aylesbury (Bucks) and the surrounding areas need apply.)

Hi from the North East

Thu, 31 May 2007 22:09:19 GMT

Hi, I'm Malcolm, a 40yo attached gay guy based in Scotland and Holland. Just started a live journal and looking forward to new discoveries. Would love you all to visit!
Take care
Malcolm

Wed, 30 May 2007 18:07:49 GMT

Heya

I'm Paul, originally from London but at uni in Birmingham. I love the London alternative gay scene, but am so fed up with Birmingham's scene, there's not a decent gay club in the whole city and therefore the only people that go to them are the bitchy queens.

Just thought I'd shout out and see if there are any cool people on here that are in or around Birmingham as it'd be nice to meet some new people up there and make some friends outside of uni!

Chars x

Campaign against Homophobia - Liverpool

Thu, 17 May 2007 07:40:31 GMT

This is EVER so last minute, so apologies for the lack of notice. It is my own fault for not being out and about much these past few weeks. For anyone interested who can attend, there is a campaign against homophobia outside St Lukes Church this evening between 6 and 7.

There are similar events going on in Manchester, Newcastle, London, Brighton etc. Check out http://www.realliverpool.com/company/2134 for some more details and links to events.

Community

Sun, 13 May 2007 01:37:33 GMT

Just wanted to let you all know about this fab community. Didnt see anything in your rules not allowing community promoting. Its fab and you should join with me :) ♥ Renee

dyke_riot = ♥

London Pride confirmed!!!

Wed, 09 May 2007 12:44:22 GMT

It's official - London Pride is confirmed on the 30th June 2007. The parade route is going down Oxford Street again (yay!) and the Rally in Trafalgar Square afterwards!

I can't wait!!! XD