BTWI Statement Concerning SB 6 Senate Committee Passage

TransGriot Note:  BTWI statement concerning SB 6 passage out of the Texas Senate State Affairs Committee


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2017
Contact: Monica Roberts BTWI Media Chair
Carmarion Anderson  BTWI Founding President
855-255-8636  Ext 11
media@blacktranswomen.org

BTWI is saddened but not surprised as a Texas based organization.to note that the unjust SB 6 bill attacking the humanity and human rights of Texas transgender people cleared the Republican dominated Senate State Affairs Committee on a 7-1 vote in the early morning hours of March 8.

The bill now goes to the Texas senate floor despite 13 hours of testimony of Texas overwhelmingly opposed to it.  Black Transwomen, Inc proudly adds its name to the long list of organizations that are vehemently opposed to the passage of SB 6

BTWI thanks Senator Judith Zaffirini (D-Laredo) for standing up for the human rights of transgender Texans with her State Affairs committee NO vote.  We also thank Senators Sylvia Garcia (D-Houston), Jose Rodriguez (D-El Paso) and Borris Miles (D-Houston)  for also standing with our community against this unjust bill.  

We at BTWI hope that others in the Texas Senate and Texas House will join them in publicly opposing this misguided bill that fuels the hellfire flames of transphobic bigotry against trans Texas.

Thanks to the BTWI, BTMI and BTIPS members, our founding BTWI president Carmarion Anderson, and Black Trans Advocacy leadership team members who journeyed to Austin to take part in Trans Texas Lobby Day on March 6.

Thanks also to our BTWI board member Monica Roberts who participated in the March 6 Lobby Day and testified at the March 7 marathon State Affairs committee meeting along with other concerned Texans.

As BTWI has noted, six of the seven trans women we have lost in 2017 are Black trans women. SB 6 if passed will only raise the level of anti-trans hatred in the Lone Star State and elsewhere that feeds into the anti-trans discrimination and violence we face,  

Black Transwomen, Inc will fight to ensure that the Texas Legislature is aware Black trans Texans exist, and know that our voices matter in this SB 6 conversation.

The transphobic commentary from a Black San Antonio minister makes us painfully aware at BTWI just how much ongoing work we must do in order to eradicate transphobia from our Black community ranks.

SB 6 is not yet Texas law.  We at BTWI/along with our coalition partners will fight this unjust bill every step of the way throughout the legislative process until it is defeated.

 BTWI will also continue to fight until every Texan gets the message that trans rights are human rights.

BTWI Statement Concerning The Murder Of Jaquarrius Holland

TransGriot Note:  BTWI statement concerning the death of Jaquarrius Holland

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2017
Contact: Monica Roberts BTWI Media Chair
Carmarion Anderson  BTWI Founding President
855-255-8636  Ext 11
media@blacktranswomen.org

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We at Black Transwomen, Inc are once again tasked with the sad duty of announcing that we have lost another Black trans woman to anti-trans violence.  The reason we are only discovering that we lost Jaquarrius Holland now is because of media misgendering of her..

BTWI would like to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Jaquarrius Holland, and may she rest in power and peace.

Local television stations KARD-TV and KTVE-TV are guilty of an ongoing problem in trans murder cases in media misgendering of trans women.   It results in not only the delayed recognition and response in the trans community of us honoring our lost trans sisters, it is disrespectful to their memory and can delay justice in these cases.

The 18 year old Holland was living in Monroe, LA, and shot to death in the 3900 block of Grammont Street back on February 19 after an altercation around 10:00 PM CST..   Holland was taken to St Francis Medical Center where she was pronounced dead.

Holland is now the seventh reported homicide of a trans person in the US in 2017, the fifth in the month of February, and the sixth African American trans person

There is a suspect in this case, and a warrant for second degree murder has been issued for the arrest of Malcolm Derricktavious Harvey.   Harvey fled the scene after the February 19 shooting and the Monroe Police Department is still searching for him.

If you have an information that will lead to the arrest, conviction and incarceration of Malcolm Harvey, please call the Monroe Police Department at 318-329-2600,

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Black Transwomen,  Inc  is a national not for profit organization based in Dallas TX  that is part of the Black Trans Advocacy Coalition,  a social justice alliance of the Black Transmen Inc, Black Transwomen Inc & Black Trans International Pageantry System organizations. BTA is committed to the advancement of black and trans people and the liberation of all disenfranchised people by working collaboratively to help end race and gender inequalities  

BTWI Statement Concerning The Murder of Ciara McElveen

TransGriot Note: The Black Transwomen, Inc Statement concerning the death of Ciara McElveen

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2017
Contact: Monica Roberts BTWI Media Chair
Carmarion Anderson  BTWI Founding President
855-255-8636  Ext 11
media@blacktranswomen.org

Black Transwomen, Inc like the community, is just becoming aware of the tragic death of our fallen sister Chyna Gibson, and we awoke on Monday morning like members of our community to hear the unbelievable news that another trans women was killed in New Orleans' 7th Ward.

Ciara McElveen was stabbed seven times in the 1700 block of Columbus Street and left for dead when the NOPD found her after responding to a call at 9 AM CST.   She was taken to a nearby hospital where she died from her wounds.

BTWI would like to express our deepest sympathy to her family and all who loved Ciara for her loss. We hope and pray that the person responsible for her murder is caught, prosecuted and is convicted of this heinous crime.  If you have information that will lead to that happening, please call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or 1-877-903-STOP (7867).  

This makes her the second trans woman killed in New Orleans in the span of 48 hours, the third this week, the fourth in the month of February and the sixth nationally in 2017.

And the infuriating point to us at Black Transwomen Inc is that all four of the trans women killed in the month of February are African-American transpeople.

We at BTWI are just as fed up with this pattern of anti-trans violence aimed at our sisters as those of you who care about our Black trans feminine community.

Our motto at BTWI is Every Voice Matters.   When a trans person's voice is stilled, we are going to ensure that their voice and the voices of all Black trans women are heard in this and other cases when it comes to our lost sisters until justice is served.  

Rest in power and peace, Ciara

***

Black Transwomen,  Inc  is a national not for profit organization based in Dallas TX  that is part of the Black Trans Advocacy Coalition,  a social justice alliance of the Black Transmen Inc, Black Transwomen Inc & Black Trans International Pageantry System organizations. BTA is committed to the advancement of black and trans people and the liberation of all disenfranchised people by working collaboratively to help end race and gender inequalities   

BTWI Statement Concerning The Gibson Murder

TransGriot Note:  The Black Transwomen, Inc statement concerning the murder of Chyna Gibson

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 26, 2017
Contact: Monica Roberts BTWI Media Chair
Carmarion Anderson  BTWI Founding President
855-255-8636  Ext 11
media@blacktranswomen.org

BTWI is horrified to learn that mere days after we have communicated our dismay, shock and anger over the killing of Keke Collier. that we must now discuss the murder of another trans woman

Chyna Gibson had gone home to New Orleans to like thousands of other people, celebrate Mardi Gras and be with her family during that festive time.  

Instead, she was brutally murdered.  Shot ten times and left to die in the parking lot of a New Orleans strip mall.

BTWI would like to express our condolences to Chyna's family, friends and all who loved her.  She was well known in the pageant and ballroom community as Chyna Doll Dupree, and she will be missed.

Rest in power and peace, Chyna

We are also asking that if you have information that will expeditiously solve this murder and lead to the arrest, conviction and incarceration of the person who committed this heinous crime, to please call NOPD Homicide Detective Robert Barrere at 504-658-1111.  You can also call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or 1-877-903-STOP (7867)

Chyna's trans life that was tragically cut short matters, as did the lives of Keke Collier, Jo Jo Striker, Mesha Caldwell and Jamie Lee Wounded Arrow.   We at BTWI 'are tired of the anti-trans violence and hatred aimed at us and now at our trans kids by the Trump Administration.

We exist.  Our trans lives matter to ourselves and all who love us. BTWI will do our part to fight for the humanity and human rights of Black trans women and our Black trans kids to ensure they live quality lives.

***

Black Transwomen,  Inc  is a national not for profit organization based in Dallas TX  that is part of the Black Trans Advocacy Coalition,  a social justice alliance of the Black Transmen Inc, Black Transwomen Inc & Black Trans International Pageantry System organizations. BTA is committed to the advancement of black and trans people and the liberation of all disenfranchised people by working collaboratively to help end race and gender inequalities  

BTWI Statement About The Collier Murder

TransGriot Note:  The Black Transwomen, Inc (BTWI) statement about the Collier killing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 22, 2017
Contact: Monica Roberts BTWI Media Chair
Carmarion Anderson  BTWI Founding President
855-255-8636  Ext 11
media@blacktranswomen.org

***

Black Transwomen, Inc is saddened to hear the news that we have lost another sister to anti-trans violence.  On Tuesday morning 24 year old Keke Collier was found lying in the street in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood suffering from three gunshot wounds she would subsequently succumb from.

BTWI expresses our condolences to Collier's family and all who loved her for her untimely death

Collier is unfortunately the fourth trans person we have lost to anti trans violence in the United States, and the second this month.    Collier becomes the third African American trans person after 41 year old Mesha Caldwell in Canton, Mississippi and 23 year old Jo Jo Striker in Toledo, Ohio to die this year.

The fourth person we have lost in 2017 to anti-trans violence was 28 year old Native American Jamie Lee Wounded Arrow or Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

BTWI laments the loss of all these women, and are particularly upset and angered about the three women under the age of 30. These women were taken from us before they had a chance to explore the full potential of their lives.

BTWI Board Chair Dee Dee Watters is asking that we have a national moment of silence starting at 9:00 PM CST for five minutes for Keke and all the trans women we have lost in 2017.

BTWI's motto is that Every Voice Matters, and these women's voices were stilled before they had the opportunity to find their voices in society.  We're here to ensure that trans women survive, thrive and become the best persons they can be.  BTWI also exists to send the unmistakable message that our Black Trans Lives Matter.  

BTWI hopes and prays that the perpetrator of this crime is swiftly caught and justice is served in this case.  We urge those of you who may have information that could possibly help expeditiously solve the Collier case to call the Chicago Police Department.


***

Black Transwomen,  Inc  is a national not for profit organization based in Dallas TX  that is part of the Black Trans Advocacy Coalition,  a social justice alliance of the Black Transmen Inc, Black Transwomen Inc & Black Trans International Pageantry System organizations. BTA is committed to the advancement of black and trans people and the liberation of all disenfranchised people by working collaboratively to help end race and gender inequalities
   

Black Trans Advocacy Statement Concerning SB 6

TransGriot Note:  One of the Texas organizations condemning SB 6, the Transgender Oppression Act is the Dallas based Black Trans Advocacy, the umbrella org for Black Trans Women, Inc, Black Transmen, Inc, the Black Trans Advocacy Conference, and the Black Trans International Pageantry System.

Here is a statement from BTA about the introduction by Lt. Governor Dan Patrick (R) and Sen Lois Kolkhorst (R-Brenham) of SB 6.  

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January 6, 2017

Black Trans Advocacy, Black Transwomen, Inc, Black Transmen, Inc and the Black Trans International Pageantry System are angered but not surprised as Texas based organizations by the decision of Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Sen. Lois Kolkhorst to continue the Republican Party's attack on Texas trans people and specifically Texas trans women.

In case you've forgotten Lt Governor Patrick,  our state motto is 'Friendship', not Hatred

The introduction yesterday of the unjust, immoral and unconstitutional SB6  is nothing more than a frontal assault on the humanity and human rights of Texas trans people.  We are also concerned about the negative effects a passed SB 6 would have on trans Texans and visitors who come to the Lone Star State to enjoy our hospitality and attend our Dallas based Black Trans Advocacy Conference that is now in its sixth year.

Texas trans people are spouses, family members, children, business owners, taxpayers and your neighbors who would also feel the negative repercussions of any boycott of the Lone Star State  that would occur if SB 6 were unfortunately passed.   That boycott  would do irreparable harm to our state's economy and condemn the Lone Star State to face the same international rebuke and scorn as a human rights oppressor that North Carolina is facing.

We urge our lieutenant governor and Sen Kolkhorst to withdraw this reprehensible bill.  We insist as Texas residents and voters that you spend this 85th Texas Legislative session focusing on the issues of importance to our state. Attacking the humanity of Texas trans people is an unnecessary political distraction, and frankly is nothing more than legislative bigotry and oppression.

If you persist in pushing transphobic legislative bigotry upon our community, you, Sen Kolkhorst and the Texas Republican Party will own the responsibility of lost Texas jobs and billions of dollars in lost business revenue.

More importantly, you and your party will bear the responsibility for the harm done to the lives of the transgender Texans that we proudly and unapologetically serve.

Lambda Legal Statement On Texas Anti-Trans Lawsuit

The statement from Lambda Legal concerning the unjust lawsuit filed by Texas and 10 other states over the Obama Administration guidelines reminding them that federal law protects transgender students.

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Today, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced that Texas and other states and officials have filed a lawsuit challenging the Obama Administration’s recently released guidance to schools across the country clarifying that federal law already prohibits discrimination against students based on gender identity. Paul D. Castillo, Staff Attorney in Lambda Legal’s South Central Regional Office in Dallas, issued the following statement:

 “By attacking laws that protect transgender people in schools and at work these state officials are determined to perpetuate fear, enshrine discrimination and endanger transgender people—and  students in particular. The suit filed today by Texas Attorney General Paxton completely and willfully misunderstands who transgender people are and the challenges they face in life. We are already in discussions with our partners here in Texas and elsewhere on next steps, and will move quickly to fight this attempt to turn back the clock. It is as true today as it has always been in the fight for civil rights: the discomfort of some can never be used to justify the discriminatory treatment of others.

“Across the country, including here in Texas, school districts have implemented without incident fair and inclusive policies that respect the rights and dignity of transgender students. In fact, accompanying the federal guidance issued two weeks ago was abundant documentation from school districts nationwide demonstrating successful implementation of these policies and the improved outcomes such respectful policies produce for all.

“Singling out transgender students for separate and unequal treatment is demeaning and harmful, and compelling them to use bathrooms that don’t correspond with their gender identity subjects them to potential abuse and harassment. All students deserve the opportunity to learn and thrive in school, free of harassment, discriminatory treatment and the threat of violence.”

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BLM Statement: It's Time! Putting The T Back In Black

In case some of you were wondering if #BlackTransLivesMatter to the #BlackLivesMatter movement, based on this statement and a previous comment from BLM co-founder Alicia Garza, the answer would be an emphatic YES!

The 'T' has always been part of the Black community.  It's just taking some people time to let that concept sink into their nappy headed craniums.

But I'll let you TransGriot readers peruse it for yourselves.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 19, 2015
It's Time! Putting the T Back in Black

It is time we accept that state sanctioned violence is much more than police brutality. In the wake of 5 beautiful trans women losing their lives, just last week alone, we are full of grief. These terrible happenings are a result of the many factors that place black trans women in so much risk just by leaving our homes, if we even have homes to begin with. It is far past the time to shut shit down for black trans folks the same way we shut shit down for cis black men.

Black trans women have consistently resisted against anti blackness, patriarchy, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia and white supremacy by being a model of unapologetic truth. Black resistance doesn’t belong to just one group of black people it belongs to us all. We believe that in order to get free we must all get free. Black trans folks getting free isn’t up for debate.


We ask that you commit to learning the names of your sisters who have been murdered. We ask that you learn the names of your sisters who are fighting for your lives just as much as we are fighting for ours. We need more from our black cis counterparts. We need you to show up for the simple fact that black people are dying at the hands of this violence. When a black trans woman's body is found burned in a field, and there is no outrage from the community, it sends the message to us, and to everyone else that there is no value in our existence. That black trans women are fair game.

#BlackLivesMatter has consistently been supportive and in collaboration with black trans folks and especially with Black trans women. We have spent time developing principles,developing analysis,and creating deep practice that is full of love. There’s no action without practice. The time has come for us to practice what we have created. The time is now to resist in honor of Marsha P. Johnson. Islan Nettles. Cemia Dove. Amber Monroe. Penny Proud. Ashley Sherman and so many others. The time is now to join #BlackLivesMatter in action as we celebrate our sisters who are living- the very sisters who have fought next to us to sustain this declaration that has been heard around the world.


We don't show up and show out for cis black people for accolades, or to insure that they show up for us. We have shown up for cis black folk because we know “that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” We show up for cis black folk because as a black person, we know that if they will kill my siblings, they will kill us. We have shown up for black cis people when black cis people are contributing to the violence we face as black trans women. We have shown up for Black cis folk when the face of violence for a black trans woman is often a black cis man. No longer can we move through society ashamed of the trans people who come from us. Before we were trans, before we were queer, before we were anything we were black. Our Black Lives Matter whether you are ashamed or not.


The creation of #SayHerName was not just a hashtag, it is a call to action. It is the demand that we hold space for our most marginalized. We urge that in our time of great collective grief, we take the time to process and feel but also uplift the black trans women who are still living. Reach out to your black trans sisters, remind us that we are loved and sustain that love through service to our empowerment. Be with us in protecting black trans lives. Build community with black trans women. Uplift black trans leadership. Extend humanity and love to black trans women. Be with us and be of service. We might as well stop fighting, if we can't show up for the people in our community who need us the most.

We have all been called to take bold direct action by black trans women. That action is more than a retweet or share of the names of black trans women who have been murdered but to organize with vigor in solidarity. We are calling for support from all #BlackLivesMatter chapters,and all black organizers committed to black liberation to join us in our fight towards liberation this Thursday, August 20th, 2015 at 6pm PST/ 9pm EST for a National Call of Solidarity to take action for our lives. Please register for the call using this link:
https:// myaccount.maestroconference.com/register/6XEVMRMZ0H206MHW

In Black Revolutionary Love,

Elle Hearns, Ahya Simone, Aaryn Lang
Patrisse Cullors, Alicia Garza, Opal Tometi
#BlackLivesMatter

President Obama's Statement About Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Bill

Well, the Ugandans went there.   Scott Lively and David Bahati are smiling as Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni despite massive international condemnation, signed the Anti-Homosexuality bill that was passed back in December and is already triggering anti-TBLG violence against the community there.

Here's what President Obama had to say about it in a statement.

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As a country and a people, the United States has consistently stood for the protection of fundamental freedoms and universal human rights.  We believe that people everywhere should be treated equally, with dignity and respect, and that they should have the opportunity to reach their fullest potential, no matter who they are or whom they love.

That is why I am so deeply disappointed that Uganda will shortly enact legislation that would criminalize homosexuality.  The Anti-Homosexuality Bill in Uganda, once law, will be more than an affront and a danger to the gay community in Uganda.  It will be a step backward for all Ugandans and reflect poorly on Uganda’s commitment to protecting the human rights of its people.  It also will mark a serious setback for all those around the world who share a commitment to freedom, justice and equal rights.

As we have conveyed to President Museveni, enacting this legislation will complicate our valued relationship with Uganda.  At a time when, tragically, we are seeing an increase in reports of violence and harassment targeting members of the LGBT community from Russia to Nigeria, I salute all those in Uganda and around the world who remain committed to respecting the human rights and fundamental human dignity of all persons.
 
 

BTMI/BTWI Wants You!

I've been in an advisory role for BTMI/BTWI since the convention in Dallas last March and love the direction it's trying to go as an organization.  But let me let them tell you what's happening with them.

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Black Transmen, Inc. has really made a great impact in the global transgender community over the past few years. Emerging as the leading first national non-profit organization for Black Transmen, BTMI continues forging onward with the support of Black Transwomen in leadership advocacy, education and performing outreach in the community about challenges facing the transgender community as well as building bridges with allies.

Espoused sister group Black Transwomen, Inc has been visible within the community this year with the help of trailblazing women, Minister Carmarion Anderson, Ms Monica Roberts, Ms Diamond Stylz and Ms Nekidra Brown. At this time, Black Transmen, Inc. is delighted to announce the formation of the first board of directors for Black Transwomen, Inc. this fall.

Black Transmen, Inc. is thrilled to announce:
2013-14 BTMI State Chapters and Leader/Board Members

Maryland/D.C - Mr. Vann Millhouse – BTMI Board
http://www.facebook.com/btmimd

Michigan - Mr. Mykell Price – BTMI Board
http://www.facebook.com/btmimichigan

Virginia - Mr. Charley Burton – BTMI Board
http://www.facebook.com/btmiva

Illinois - Mr Melvin Whitehead - President
http://www.facebook.com/btmiil

Pennsylvania - Mr. Mekhi Johnson - President
http://www.facebook.com/btmipa

Washington - Mr. Qayden Smith - President
http://www.facebook.com/btmiwa

Georgia - Mr. Kendall Brown - President
http://www.facebook.com/btmiga

Texas - Mr. Carter Brown – Dallas - President
Mr. Tye West – Houston - President
Mr. Jabriel Williamson – Fort Worth - President
http://www.facebook.com/btmitx

State Chapters Coming Soon: Louisiana, California & Connecticut

Black Transmen, Inc. is uplifted by the men and women who take a stand for equality through leadership commitment, serving as advocates in the trans community.

Are you eager to have a hand in creating increased positive visibility for the trans community nationwide? BTMI state chapters are currently accepting inquires from transmen and transwomen who desire to commit and serve in one of the volunteer leadership positions available. All skill sets are needed to fulfill a variety of management leadership roles: president, vice-president, secretary or treasure. Other non-management leadership opportunities are available within our outreach programs including our trans speakers bureau. The Black Transmen, Inc leadership program minimum commitment timeframe is one year; invitations are forthcoming.

The next BTMI/BTWI Leadership invitational will be issued in August and will take place online. Interested candidates should contact BTMI/BTWI at http://outreach.blacktransmen.org/ or http://outreach.blacktranswomen.org/.

Association of Transgender Professionals Statement About Allyson Robinson's OutServe/SLDN Dismissal

TransGriot Note: Told y'all we're pissed about what happened to Allyson Robinson.   Here's the statement from the Association of Transgender Professionals about it

Equality in the workplace for the transgender community was set back this week by the sudden dismissal of Allyson Robinson as Executive Director of OutServe-SLDN.


“Allyson’s role at OutServe-SLDN was a beacon to all by demonstrating that transgender was finally an equal partner in the struggle for LGBT equality,” according to ATP Executive Director Denise Norris.

There are an unknown number of Transgender men and woman proudly serving in our military forces, but they can only serve if they sacrifice the same authenticity of self that was recently granted to Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual service personal with the repeal of DADT.  Allyson’s role as Executive Director at OutServe-SLDN gave hope and inspiration all service personal who were required to remain in the military’s closet.

Autumn Sandeen, an ATP member and respected transgender military and veterans activist states, “Allyson Robinson is a strong leader that many prominent trans* veterans trust and deeply respect. I’m sure I’m not the only trans* veteran who is saddened that she’ll no longer be leading OutServe-SLDN.”   Ms Sandeen, Petty Officer First Class (retired), served twenty years in the US Navy.

Norris explains that many ATP members are veterans of military service and have expressed great concern at the loss of the strong positive role model which Ms Robinson represents.

“One cannot serve with Pride if one is commanded to do so in the closet,” Ms. Norris observed.
ATP salutes all Americans on active service during LGBT Pride Month 2013.


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About the Association of Transgender Professionals

The Association of Transgender Professionals (ATP) is a not-for-profit organization advocating economic equality and workplace inclusion for people with non-conforming gender expressions and/or identities regardless of socioeconomic standing.

To learn more about the Association of Transgender Professionals and its vision and goals, please visit www.transgenderprofessionals.org

Its three-fold mission is:

• To promote inclusion and equality for Gender Expression Diversity in the workplace (Acceptance)
• To provide professional development services to accelerate the acquisition of workplace skills (Talent)
• To develop viable employer recruiting channels (Placement)

Joint LGBT Organization Statement Over FRC Shooting

Joint Statement regarding shooting at Family Research Council (FRC) from lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) organizations

We were saddened to hear news of the shooting this morning at the offices of the Family Research Council. Our hearts go out to the shooting victim, his family, and his co-workers. The motivation and circumstances behind today’s tragedy are still unknown, but regardless of what emerges as the reason for this shooting, we utterly reject and condemn such violence.  We wish for a swift and complete recovery for the victim of this terrible incident. Michael Adams Executive Director, Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) Tico Almeida President, Freedom to Work Katie Belanger Executive Director, Fair Wisconsin Wayne Besen Founding Executive Director, Truth Wins Out A.J. Bockelman Executive Director, PROMO Carly Burton Deputy Director, MassEquality Dr. Eliza Byard Executive Director, Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN) Jennifer Chrisler Executive Director, Family Equality Council Brad Clark Executive Director, One Colorado R. Clarke Cooper Executive Director, Log Cabin Republicans Heather Cronk Managing Director, GetEQUAL Jerame Davis Executive Director, National Stonewall Democrats Emily Dievendorf Director of Policy, Equality Michigan James Esseks Director, ACLU Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Project Lynn A. Faria Interim Executive Director, Empire State Pride Agenda Jenna Frazzini Executive Director, Basic Rights Oregon Herndon Graddick President, Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) Chad Griffin President, Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Jody M. Huckaby Executive Director, PFLAG National (Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbians and Gays) Mara Keisling Executive Director, National Center of Transgender Equality Kate Kendell Executive Director, National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR) Abbe Land Executive Director & CEO, The Trevor Project Ineke Mushovic Executive Director, Movement Advancement Project National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs Darlene Nipper Deputy Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Donna Red Wing Executive Director, One Iowa Aubrey Sarvis Executive Director, Servicemembers Legal Defense Network Josh Seefried Co-Director, OutServe Brian Silva Executive Director, Marriage Equality USA Lee Swislow Executive Director, Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders Rachel B. Tiven, Esq. Executive Director, Immigration Equality Chuck Wolfe President & CEO, Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund and Institute Evan Wolfson President, Freedom to Marry ### About GLAAD: The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) amplifies the voice of the LGBT community by empowering real people to share their stories, holding the media accountable for the words and images they present, and helping grassroots organizations communicate effectively. By ensuring that the stories of LGBT people are heard through the media, GLAAD promotes understanding, increases acceptance, and advances equality. For more information, please visit www.glaad.org or connect with GLAAD on Facebook and Twitter.

Campus Pride Calls on University Leaders to Uphold Non-Discrimination Policies And End Chick-fil-A Relationships

       "No college or university wants to be associated with hate.”

TransGriot Note: From Campus Pride

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Campus Pride, the leading national nonprofit for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) and ally college students, condemns Chick-Fil-A for their funding of documented hate groups and asks that colleges and universities across the country disassociate with Chick-Fil-A immediately, as follows:

• Pass a student government policy/resolution that expresses opposition to Chick-Fil-A on the basis of their direct funding of documented hate groups and prevents further association with the brand Chick-Fil-A.
• End food service contracts that include Chick-Fil-A, amend these contracts, or refuse negotiations with companies like the Aramark Corporation, which include Chick-Fil-A among dining choices.
• Pull out of conferences, events and sports games where Chick-Fil-A is a sponsor.

“If colleges wish to create an atmosphere that is respectful, inclusive, diverse and fosters safety for all students, then associating with Chick-Fil-A, which is on record funding documented hate groups, is downright wrong and has to end immediately,” said Shane Windmeyer, executive director of Campus Pride. “Saying ‘no’ to Chick-Fil-A is saying 'no' to hate.”

Over the past decade, college student leaders have long protested Chick-Fil-A due to its discriminatory stances and have asked for its removal from retail dining options offered on campus. New York University, University of Southern Mississippi, Indiana University, Duke University and University of North Carolina Wilmington are among such institutions and reflect the wide spread efforts to kick Chick-Fil-A off campus for not adhering to campus policies of nondiscrimination.

“Chick-Fil-A and its founding family have the right to believe, say and do whatever they want -- including funding hate groups. This issue is not about freedom of speech. Campus Pride respects every individual or company's right to express their opinions and beliefs – even if these beliefs are counter to our values,” said Windmeyer.

“The real issue is about choosing businesses to operate on campus that uphold campus policies of nondiscrimination and that do not funnel monies to documented hate groups. Doing so, impedes a college from being a safe space for all students to learn, live and grow.”

Chick-Fil-A funding of documented hate groups, like the Family Research Council (FRC), which advocates the criminalization and death of LGBT people, is clearly unacceptable. In 2010, Chick-Fil-A supported FRC and its $25,000 effort to stop the United States Congress from passing a bill denouncing the execution of homosexuals in Uganda. The company also sponsored Exodus International, an "ex-gay" group claiming to "cure homosexuality" at devastating psychological costs. The funding has received little attention prior to the recent controversy.

Campus Pride believes that increased press coverage will only ignite further efforts to end the fast food chain operations on college campuses. Windmeyer reiterates that Campus Pride is "committed to help campuses end food service contracts with Chick-Fil-A" and this August will be sending a letter against Chick-Fil-A to the college presidents of the nearly 400+ colleges and universities that participate annually in the Campus Pride national LGBT-friendly college fair program and its Campus Pride Index online benchmarking tool to create safer, more welcoming campus communities.

“Chick-Fil-A’s logo is now a symbol of hate because of the company’s outward, unapologetic funding of documented hate groups like the Family Research Council. No college or university wants to be associated with hate.”

NBJC Comments On Kylar's Historic Senate ENDA Hearing Testimony

Senate Hears from First Transgender Witness on Employment Non-Discrimination Act

TPOCC Founder and NBJC Board Member Kylar Broadus Testifies

Washington, D.C. – June 13, 2012 – Yesterday, history was made when the Senate heard testimony from a transgender witness for the first time. In a hearing dedicated to highlighting workplace discrimination experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people, Kylar Broadus, an African American transgender man, recounted how he was harassed while working at a major financial institution and emphasized the importance of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA).

Broadus is the Founder of the Trans People of Color Coalition (TPOCC), a national social justice organization that promotes the interests of trans people of color as well as a Board Member and former Board Chair of the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC), a national civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black LGBT people.

“There are many more people like me that are not employed as a result of just being who they are,” said Broadus during his testimony. “It’s extremely important that this bill be passed to protect workers like me.”

It is still legal in 29 states to discriminate based on sexual orientation and in 37 states to do so based on gender identity and expression. According to the Williams Institute, “17 percent reported being fired because of their sexual orientation, 13 percent reported being denied a promotion of receiving a negative job evaluation, and 20 percent reported being harassed verbally or in writing on the job” because they are gay or transgender. The Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) would extend employment protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

“To have a trans person of color shed light on the challenges faced by transgender Americans who simply want the same chance at earning a living and providing for themselves was monumental,” says Sharon Lettman-Hicks, NBJC Executive Director and CEO. “This was a historic moment in the Senate and for our nation as a whole.”

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The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people. NBJC’s mission is to eradicate racism and homophobia.

NBJC Commends the NAACP’s Support of Marriage Equality

TransGriot Note: The press release from the National Black Justice Coalition concerning the NAACP resolution supporting marriage equality.

Yesterday the NAACP released a resolution supporting marriage equality. The organization’s board of directors voted to support the freedom to marry as a continuation of its commitment to equal protection under the law. The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC), the nation’s leading Black lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization, commends the NAACP for this historic step.

“As a Life Member of the NAACP, I am happy to see the organization join the President of the United States in ‘evolving’ and follow the powerful example of civil rights icons and Black voices like Rev. Dr. Joseph Lowery, Julian Bond, Rev. Al Sharpton, Rev. Dr. Michael Eric Dyson and others who have said committed LGBT couples and families deserve the same protections as everyone else,” says Sharon Lettman-Hicks, NBJC Executive Director and CEO. “Family is the epicenter of Black life, community and culture. For Black LGBT people, its importance is just as great.”

The NAACP has addressed civil rights with regard to marriage since Loving v. Virginia declared anti-miscegenation laws unconstitutional in 1967. In recent years the organization has taken public positions against state and federal efforts to ban the rights and privileges for LGBT citizens, including strong opposition to Proposition 8 in California, the Defense of Marriage Act, and most recently, North Carolina’s Amendment 1, which instituted a constitutional ban on marriage for same-sex couples.

Studies show that Black lesbian partners parent at almost the same rate as Black heterosexual couples. In comparison to their white counterparts, both Black gay and lesbian couples are more likely to be raising children. Robbed of the 1,138 federal protections and benefits available to married couples, including Social Security survivors benefits, Medicaid spend-down protections, and workers' compensation, Black same-sex families are disproportionately put in harm’s way. Despite these challenges, Black gay men and lesbians continue to care for children in need of a loving and supportive home.


According to the LGBT Families of Color: Facts at a Glance Report, same-sex partners who become foster parents are more likely to be families of color than among heterosexual married couples. Yet 40 states plus the District of Columbia are silent on fostering by LGBT parents, while 2 states restrict it. Same-sex couples also face uncertainty about joint adoption in 28 states and are prohibited entirely in 5 other states.

“Outdated anti-gay laws and mindsets disproportionately undermine Black families,” adds Lettman-Hicks. “When you deny loving and committed same-sex couples equal protection under the law, you’re inflicting an even greater blow on LGBT families of color whose challenges are compounded by both race and orientation.

As a voice of Black leadership, the NAACP can help the country understand that the fight for equality isn’t about ‘Black vs. gay,’ but that there are loving couples and families at the intersection who are a part of the Black/African American narrative.”

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The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people. NBJC’s mission is to end racism and homophobia.

NBJC Applauds President Obama’s Endorsement of Marriage Equality

TransGriot Note: The May 9 press release from the National Black Justice Coalition concerning the POTUS' marriage endorsement

Washington, D.C. – May 9, 2012 – Today, President Obama affirmed his support of marriage for loving and committed same-sex couples. The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC), the nation’s leading Black LGBT civil rights organization, applauds the President for this historic endorsement of the freedom to marry.

“It is an honor to witness our President take such a strong stand in support of gay and lesbian couples across the country,” says Sharon Lettman-Hicks, Executive Director and CEO of the National Black Justice Coalition. “This affirmation reinforces the Administration’s ongoing commitment to LGBT Americans and our families.”

The President has had an exemplary record advancing protections for the LGBT community. However, he explained that his position on marriage equality had been changing and had not explicitly proclaimed his support of extending marriage to gay and lesbian couples until now. Despite the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” ending the legal defense of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), endorsing the Student Non-Discrimination Act (SNDA) and more, President Obama had been under increased pressure for his self-described “evolving” position on marriage equality when Vice President Biden said he was “absolutely comfortable” with marriage for loving and committed same-sex couples.

“As my (s)hero, Barbara Jordan, once said, ‘one thing is clear to me: we, as human beings, must be willing to accept people who are different from ourselves,’” Lettman-Hicks adds. “Here is President Obama, the nation’s first Black president, taking a position that no sitting president in history has had the fortitude to ever take. If anyone in America has ever wondered what courageous leadership looks like, here it is.”

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The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people. NBJC’s mission is to eradicate racism and homophobia.

NBJC Statement On Passage Of North Carolina's Amendment One.

TransGriot Note: Press Release from the National Black Justice Coalition concerning the regrettable passage of the unjust Amendment One

Yesterday, North Carolinians voted to pass Amendment One, which will change the state’s constitution to recognize only marriage between one man and one woman; ban civil unions; and eliminate health care, prescription drug coverage and other benefits for public employees and children receiving domestic partner benefits.

The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC), the nation’s leading Black LGBT civil rights organization, responds to North Carolina’s disappointing passage of Amendment One and how Black faith leaders rallied to condemn the amendment as well as educate voters.


Recent polls found that 60 percent of North Carolina voters were unaware of the full implications of the referendum. In fact, Public Policy Polling found that “if all voters were informed of [the amendment’s] consequences, the amendment would fail by a 38-46 margin…”

“It is a grave disappointment that North Carolinians voted to deny couples and children equal protections under the law,” says Sharon Lettman-Hicks, NBJC Executive Director and CEO. “Although this represents an unfortunate setback to progress and has devastating consequences to many families, we are encouraged by the number of Black clergy that spoke out against the amendment.”

Support for Amendment One had continued to slip, especially among African Americans. Public Policy Polling data revealed support for the amendment from Black voters dropped from 61/30 to 51/39. That was the lowest level of support PPP has found in monthly polling of the amendment since last October.

Rev. William Barber, president of the North Carolina NAACP, spoke out in opposition of any proposal that would alter the federal or state constitution to exclude any groups from equal protection under the law. Rev. Barber joined several Black pastors that spoke out publicly about their stance against the amendment.

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The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) is a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people. NBJC’s mission is to eradicate racism and homophobia.

Trans People of Color Coalition Hosts Upcoming Town Hall on Transgender Visibility

San Francisco, CA – On Saturday, February 25, “Come Together,” a town hall discussing the importance of building coalitions within the transgender community, will take place at City of Refuge – United Church of Christ, 1025 Howard Street, San Francisco, Calif., 11 AM – 4 PM PST.  The event is free and open to the public.

Studies show that transgender people face injustices in housing, health care, employment, and many other areas. Transgender and gender non-conforming people of color are hit the hardest. They are also more susceptible to anti-transgender violence than other racial and ethnic groups.

“This is the first ever national focus on transgender people of color,” explains Kylar Broadus, founder of the Trans People of Color Coalition (TPOCC), a national organization dedicated to challenging racism and transphobia, and the main sponsor of the event. “It is critical that we empower people to advocate for themselves as we build this movement.” 

The town hall is the third in a series of national town halls to discuss issues affecting and impacting trans people of color. 

The first of its kind was held last year in Charlotte, N.C. where then city council candidate, LaWana Mayfield, now the newly elected and the first openly gay city council member in Charlotte, spoke about claiming our authenticity to break down barriers and build relationships. 

“We’re honored to be hosting this event for our trans brothers and sisters,” says City of Refuge United Church of Christ’s Minister BobbieJean Baker. “It’s an opportunity to collaborate, strategize and celebrate the Creator's diversity.”   
  

The town hall will be led and moderated by Broadus, who founded TPOCC in 2010. “We want to give transgender people of color a sense of self and community,” he adds. “There are many of us that don't feel that we're being heard or connected to any movement.  There is no one that can tell our story better than us; we live it daily and we have a voice.”

“Come Together” is sponsored in part by the National Center for Lesbian Rights and the National Trans Ministry: TransSaints of the Fellowship of Affirming Ministries, an online network connecting transgender faith community leaders together for empowerment.

To learn more about the Trans People of Color Coalition, visit www.transpoc.org.

National Black Justice Coalition Stands With Community to Condemn Recent Anti-LGBT Attacks

TransGriot Note:  Press release from the National Black Justice Coalition

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – FEBRUARY 9, 2012 – Our community is now at a crossroads. Our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth are calling out to us. This is the moment we make it unequivocally clear that we are here, we are listening and we are ready to take action. In light of the recent anti-LGBT attacks and murders of our Black youth, the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC), a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering Black LGBT people, is standing with community members to demand that this pattern of violence against our own end now.

 

Earlier this week, a video of Brandon White, a Black gay man in Atlanta, being brutally beaten went viral. The 30-second clip shows a group of men suspected to be members of the gang Pittsburgh Jack City kicking and punching the unsuspecting young man as they repeatedly call him anti-gay slurs.

 

Just last Thursday a Black transgender woman, Deoni Jones, was fatally stabbed in Washington, D.C. According to a press release from the D.C. Transgender Coalition (DCTC), an altercation between the victim and her attacker broke out at the bus stop, which resulted in the victim being stabbed in the face. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) suspect and is looking for a Black male, 30 to 40 years old.

 

Last month, new details emerged in the hazing death of gay Florida A&M University student Robert Champion, Jr. Friends have said they believe his orientation may have been a factor in the severity of the brutal beating that killed him. And those are just three of the incidents we know about. Many more attacks, assaults, and incidents of harassment go unreported.

 

The National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs has found that violence against LGBT people is up 23 percent, with people of color and transgender women as the most likely targets. Of the victims murdered in 2010, 70 percent were people of color, and 44 percent were transgender women.

 

“Enough is enough,” says Sharon Lettman-Hicks, NBJC executive director. “Our children are dying and they’re taking each other’s lives. Simply because it’s anti-LGBT violence doesn’t change the fact that it’s Black-on-Black crime. We need to act now.”

 

Black LGBT people are at the intersection of laws like the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, which were passed to protect people like Brandon, Deoni and Robert. But federal law enforcement alone will not address the systematic and societal realities around violence in our community.

 

This tragic string of attacks is a clarion call that more deliberate action within the Black community is needed now more than ever.  Anti-gay violence is not only a civil rights issue; it is a Black issue. It is a Black issue because violence against gay and transgender individuals is disproportionately affecting our Black youth. The civil rights community can no longer stand on the sidelines while our LGBT sons and daughters continue to suffer in silence.

Nikki Araguz And Heather Delgado Battle in Houston Courtroom Tomorrow

TransGriot Note: Been quiet on the Nikki trans marriage case front lately but looks like another flurry of legal activity is about to get started.

Was e-mailed this press release moments ago.  Any questions you media peeps or others have about it, call Lauren Freeburn at 708-870-0146

Good luck, Nikki!.

Nikki Araguz and Heather Delgado face off again in a Houston courtroom in defense of Araguz's marriage to her late husband, fallen firefighter Thomas T. Araguz III.

A 1 PM CST hearing set for Thursday, November 10 in the Elias Ramirez Building, 5425 Polk St, Suite 130, Houston, Texas will determine Mrs. Araguz's status as a widow beneficiary for Workers' Compensation.

Attorney Peggy Campbell is representing Nikki Araguz before Presiding Hearing Officer Jacquelyn Coleman in this benefit contested case. A positive ruling in favor of Mrs. Araguz in this case could impact the previous negative ruling invalidating her marriage by Judge Randy Clapp (R), currently on appeal.

Nikki Araguz is a transsexual woman fighting for recognition of her marriage to a fallen firefighter, filed an appeal that seeks to overturn a judge’s ruling that the marriage is invalid.

Araguz was married to volunteer firefighter Capt. Thomas Araguz III from 2008 until his death while battling a blaze at an egg farm near Boling, Texas on July 3, 2010.

“At stake in this important case are the rights of transsexual people to be respected for who they are and to have their marriages recognized,” said Kent Rutter, the lead attorney for Araguz in the civil rights appeal. “We look forward to presenting our case to the court of appeals.”

“I am pursuing this case to defend my marriage,” said Araguz.

The tragedy of Thomas' heroic death has been amplified by allegations and lawsuits filed by his mother and ex-wife, resulting in national public interest and media attention. Certainly world-wide attention would have been averted without civil litigation - Nikki could have quietly mourned her husband's death. Instead, she continues to face legal and emotional battles that no surviving spouse should ever have to fight. After being forced into the spotlight, she is working on a documentary, a movie, reality television and an autobiography.

Delgado v. Araguz will be heard by the Thirteenth Court of Appeals in Corpus Christi with Mrs. Araguz and her attorney making a statement after Thursday's hearing.