Patricia Yurena Rodriguez posted this photo on Instagram of herself and her girlfriend, Vanesa Cortez, with the caption, “Romeo and Juliet.”

BY CANDY PARKER
Lesbian.com

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but in the case of the former Miss Spain, Patricia Yurena Rodriguez, it’s worth just three – “Yes, I am.”

The former Miss Spain (2008 and 2013) and 1st runner up in the 2013 Miss Universe competition came out via Instagram, posting a photo with her girlfriend, singer and DJ Vanesa Cortez, with the caption “Romeo and Juliet.”

The 24-year-old is the first openly lesbian national beauty queen in the country. Rodriguez told a local newspaper, “I do not regret what I did. I’m thrilled with what is happening to me.”

Rodriguez later posted another photo with a caption thanking her fans for their support.

According to the Costa Rican newspaper La Nación, Rodriguez and Cortez met via mutual friends last year before the 2013 Miss Universe pageant and began dating several months ago.

The post Former Miss Spain comes out as lesbian first appeared on Lesbian.com.

BY CANDY PARKER

What did you miss this week in the world of LGBT news? Check out our Lesbian.com round-up and you’ll be ready to gather ’round the rainbow-colored water cooler to talk about five of the biggest, best and most interesting stories for July 20 – July 26.

Indiegogo campaign launched to bring lesbian bar back to Philadelphia

Almost exactly one year ago, the oldest lesbian bar in Philadelphia, Sisters, closed its doors leaving lesbians in the City of Brotherly Love without a place to call their own. Now Sisters’ former manager, Denise Cohen, is hoping to change that.

“Every event I run or attend, I am asked over and over, when will we get a new place?” Cohen told PhillyGayCalendar.com. “For nearly a year now I have been trying every option I could think of to make that happen and now there is a plan in place and with the help of our community, friends and family it is time to bring a new LGBT space to Philly.”

Having identified both a potential new venue and investors for the new bar, Cohen has launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise at least $50,000 of the $250,000 necessary to provide lesbians in Philly a full-time gathering place.

Details on the venue are confidential at this point, but Cohen did reveal “it will feature several bar areas, private bottle service vip room, dancing and entertainment along with an amazing kitchen to produce a fantastic menu.” She’s also optimistic about the employment opportunities the new space would open up for those in the community.

To read more about the fundraising campaign and/or make a contribution, visit Indiegogo.

Ft. Worth police department video targets LGBT recruits

The Fort Worth, Texas, police department is hoping to diversify it’s department, launching a YouTube campaign targeting LGBT, female, Hispanic and African-American candidates.

The first video surfaced this week and stars officer Chris Gorrie.

“What does a 30-year-old White guy have to do with diversity? Well, the short answer — I’m gay,” says Gorrie in the intentionally humorous video.

Gorrie goes on to share his motivation for joining the force, as well as his personal experience since doing so. You can check out the full video below.

Supermodel comes out as transgender woman

Bosnian-born Super model Andreja Pejic has come out as transgender.

Pejic, formerly known as Andrej Pejic, shared the news exclusively with Entertainment Tonight, People.com and Style.com. She also worked closely with GLAAD during the week leading up to her announcement.

Pejic, who has been modeling both men’s and women’s wear since 2007, is known for her androgynous look. In an email statement received by The Huffington Post, GLAAD notes that Pejic “will only be modeling women’s clothing going forward.”

The acclaimed model has appeared on covers of Elle and French Vogue and notes that her agency has been supportive of the transition.

“As a transgender woman I hope to show that after transition (a life-saving process) one can be happy and successful in their new chapter,” Pejic said in a Facebook post.

Pejic is set to appear in Sophia Coppola’s upcoming live-action adaptation of “The Little Mermaid.”

“The Bridge” star Emily Rios comes out

Emily Rios, star of the RX series “The Bridge,” came out as a lesbian during an interview published Monday on AfterEllen.com.

Rios, who portrays a lesbian character on the show, told the Logo-affiliated website, “I’m gay, personally, so being Mexican and a lesbian — this is why I love the character because I deal with the same type of things with my own family,” Emily said.

Rios, 25, told AfterEllen that she’s had more support from her family than has her character on “The Bridge.” “Adrianna’s story on “The Bridge” is a little different because her mom is ashamed and embarrassed, but I dealt with that as well,” she said. “But it just took a year for ‘Hey it’s not a phase, this is really happening.’ And then they get comfortable with it. So it was a little bit more extreme, but the Mexicans are very family-oriented. It’s all about the love so they’re very supportive.”

Rios is perhaps best known for her role as recovering drug addict and mother, Andrea Cantillo, on “Breaking Bad” in which she played Jesse Pinkman’s on-again-off-again love interest.

Michigan water park denies entry to lesbian in men’s swim trunks

A story surfaced this week about a July 9 incident in which an Indiana lesbian was kicked out of a Michigan water park during her bachelorette party celebration for wearing men’s swim trunks.

Jill Sweeney told a Michigan news station that she was kicked out of Muskegon’s WildWater Adventure while attempting to join her sister-in-law on the water slide. Sweeney was wearing swim trunks, a sports bra and tank top.

“I’d already been in the lazy river and the wave pool and then my sister in law went up to go down the slide. And that’s when I was stopped,” said Sweeney. “A supervisor had come up and she said, ‘Ma’am, you have to wear a women’s bathing suit. You’re not allowed to wear men’s.’”

The park’s general manager told the news station that Sweeney was in violation of park rules.

“A sports bra would not be a swim suit. We require our patrons to wear swim suits and street clothes of any kind would not be allowed,” said WildWater Adventure general manager Camille Mark.

The park denies Sweeney’s claim that she was targeted because she’s a lesbian.

When asked about Sweeney saying she felt singled out because she’s gay, Mark said, “I couldn’t possibly comment on that. How would anyone be aware of [Sweeney’s] sexuality?”

Sweeney produced a number of photos showing other park patrons who appear to be in violation of WildWater’s dress code policy and is seeking legal representation, though she said that she’s not in it for the money; she just wants an apology for the way she was treated.

The post LGBT week in review: New lesbian bar for Philly; ‘The Bridge’ star comes out first appeared on Lesbian.com.

What did you miss this week in the world of LGBT news? Check out our Lesbian.com round-up and you’ll be ready to gather ’round the rainbow-colored water cooler to talk about four of the biggest, best and most interesting stories for July 13 – July 19.

MLB teams with Athlete Ally

With the annual Major League Baseball (MLB) All-Star game as a backdrop, the league announced the expansion of its association with Athlete Ally, an organization committed to ending homophobia in sports.

According to a statement from the league, MLB, in conjunction with Major League Baseball Advanced Media (MLBAM), has formed a strategic alliance to provide education and training on respect and inclusion in the workplace.

“Athlete Ally will work not only with players, but also with front office personnel on these issues,” MLB Chief Operating Officer Rob Manfred said.

MLB commissioner Bud Selig also named former outfielder Billy Bean, who came out after he retired, as the league’s first ambassador for inclusion.

“We’re not here to change the way people think—We’re here to give them the opportunity to make the best decision,” Bean said. “This is not a desire to find out information about players or encourage them to do something they’re not ready to do. It’s to protect them and let them make their own decisions and be the best players they can be.”

Selig was joined in the announcement by Lutha Burke, sister of late major league outfielder Glenn Burke who came out to his teammates and team owners during his time with the Dodgers, but didn’t come out publicly until two years after leaving the game.

Selig told reporters he wished “our game had someone in place to whom Billy and Glenn could have turned when they played; a friend, listener, a source of support.”

CDC reveals LGBT health survey results

On Tuesday, the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC) released data from the National Health Interview Summary, the government’s premier tool for assessing Americans’ health and behaviors. For the first time, the annual survey included a question regarding sexual orientation, allowing researchers to examine how one’s sexual preference may affect health-related behaviors or status.

In the survey, only 2.3 percent of respondents identified as gay, lesbian or bisexual. Another 1.1 percent indicated they were “something else” or “didn’t know the answer” and 96.6 percent identified as straight.

Data indicated higher rates of cigarette smoking and binge drinking among the LGB population as compared to straight people, as well as higher rates of serious psychological stress among bisexuals.

Some LGB health advocates have questioned the CDC survey figures, noting that the 2.3 percent identifying as LGB is slightly lower than other recent surveys, such as a 2012 Gallup Poll in which 3-4 percent of those surveyed identified as gay, lesbian or bisexual. The CDC health data was collected in face-to-face interviews, a setting in which respondents may be less likely to openly reveal their orientation.

David Mariner, executive director of the Washington, D.C., Center for the LGBT Community, told USA Today, “”I think regardless of whether the number is this number or higher, we’re still talking about millions of Americans that are disproportionately affected by a lot of health indicators.”

St. Louis cop sentenced for harassing LGBT couple

Former St. Louis police officer Jeffrey Leveque was sentenced this week after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge of harassing an LGBT couple last January.

Leveque, 45, was accused of accosting Meg Hensley and her transgender male partner Kendan Elliott, over the display of a gay pride rainbow flag. Leveque and another man parked outside the couple’s home and yelled threateningly at them as they tried to leave for work.

According to court documents, Leveque was sentenced to one year of supervised probation and could face six months in prison if he violates the terms of his probation.

According to the St. Louis Dispath, Leveque served with the St. Louis Police Department from 2001 to 2004 before resigning while under investigation by Internal Affairs for an unspecified allegation.

Lesbian sheriff candidate in New Mexico dies suddenly

Mylessa Denny, an openly lesbian deputy sheriff in New Mexico who received statewide attention for her bid to become the first elected female sheriff in the state since the 1960s, died suddenly Tuesday. New Mexico State Police believe a “medical episode” contributed to Denny’s death.

Denny, 39, was found on the ground next to her squad car shortly after completing her shift at 4p.m., apparently having collapsed as she was getting into the car.

Sheriff Dennis Cleaver said, “It’s a terrible shock for our department and our community … We’re all in shock.”

In a recent interview, Denny, a U.S. Army veteran said, “I don’t have an agenda. I am openly gay, which is kind of odd for a small town. I believe you should run on how well you can do the job and not the fact that you are male, female or gay.”

The post LGBT week in review: MLB names ambassador for inclusion, CDC releases LGBT health data first appeared on Lesbian.com.

What did you miss this week in the world of LGBT news? Check out our Lesbian.com round-up and you’ll be ready to gather ’round the rainbow-colored water cooler to talk about five of the biggest, best and most interesting stories for July 6 – July 12.

Lesbian college student expelled for marrying partner

On Wednesday, Christian Minard, 22, received written notice from Southwestern Christian University that she was being expelled. The reason? She married her same-sex partner.

“I was informed that you recently married someone of the same sex and saw a few pictures from Facebook,” Brad Davis, the school’s vice president of student life, wrote. “Of course, this is opposing to our view as an International Pentecostal Holiness denominational university as well as the Lifestyle Covenant that all students must agree and sign.”

Minard, who married her partner March 17, is just one semester shy of earning her degree in sports management from the the International Pentecostal Holiness Church affiliated university. She claims that other students violate the cited Lifestyle Covenant regularly without repercussion and believes she was singled out for being a lesbian.

The expulsion leaves the would-be senior with an uncertain future.

“I’m trying to figure out how and where I can graduate,” Minard told CNN, noting that she’ll have to start paying off her loans at the end of next year unless things change. “… It’s going to be hard to get into classes that may be full, because they gave me very little notice before the fall semester starts.”

Italian mayor wants to ban same-sex PDA

If Mayor Gianluca Buonanno of Borgosesia, an Italian municipality, gets his way same-sex couples who kiss in public could be fined up to 500 euros ($680 USD) for the affectionate display.

Per a Huffington Post translation, Mayor Buonanno told Italian newspaper La Repubblica, “Kissing in public between homosexuals? No thanks… It’s a matter of respect. And I am convinced that is morally harmful for children.”

Buonanno is regarded as an eccentric, having previously engaged in behavior uncharacteristic of someone in position, including shredding the European Union flag to use as a handkerchief, waving a sea bass around during a session of Parliament and now announcing his intention to add a photo of anti-gay Russian President Vladimir Putin to his office decor.

According to Pink News, European Parliament member Daniele Viotti said the “new decree is just the latest, pathetic publicity stunt by a narrow-minded man who desperately wants to be in the spotlight.”

Colorado marriage ban struck down

On Wednesday, District Court Judge C. Scott Crabtree ruled that Colorado’s ban on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. Crabtree found that Amendment 43 of the state constitution, approved by voters in 2006 and defining marriage as being between one man and one woman, “bears no rational relationship to any conceivable government interest.”

In his 49-page decision, the judge also stated that, “confining same-sex couples to civil unions is further evidence of discrimination against same-sex couples and does not ameliorate the discriminatory effect of the Marriage Bans.”

Crabtree immediately put his ruling on hold pending an appeal and Colorado Attorney General John Suthers issued a statement on his website indicating his intention to do just that.

“Judge Crabtree provides additional clarity that until the high court rules on the issue of same-sex marriage, Colorado’s current laws remain in place,” said Suthers.

2014 Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame inductees

Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner and Olympic swimmer Diana Nyad were among those honored Friday as inductees into the LGBT Sports Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame, a non-profit organization launched in 2013 and headquartered in Chicago, was established to honor individuals and organizations whose achievements and efforts have enhanced the fields of sports and athletics for the gay and lesbian community.

Other notables joining Griner and Nyad in the 2014 class were Billy Bean (MLB), Wade Davis (NFL), Mayor George Moscone (straight ally, deceased), Tom Daley (Olympic diver) and Nike.

The inaugural 2013 class of inductees included tennis legends Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova, and LPGA Tour champion Patty Sheehan.

Lesbian moms denied family pool pass

An outdated ordinance in Galion, Ohio, which defines a family as a “mother, father and up to three children” came under fire this week when Melody Mohn and her partner, Hela Young, attempted to buy a family pool pass at Galion’s Heise Park.

Mohn, a mother of three, had purchased a family pass for herself and her three children for the past nine years, but when she inquired about adding her partner under the “family” rate, she was denied based on the city’s definition of family.

Members of the city council agree that the ordinance language needs to be changed.

“We certainly don’t want to do anything to prevent children and parents to go swimming in our pool,” Carl Watt, Galion City Council president, told a local news station, adding about the current definition of family, “I mean, 20 years ago, it probably fit the scene, but not today. Not today’s lifestyle.”

Mohn is glad the City Council will be updating the ordinance and has no regrets about pushing for the change.

“We’re not the only same-sex couple, and we’re not the only non-traditional family, either,” said Mohn.

Given that the pool is set to close next month, it is unlikely that the Mohn/Young household will enjoy a family rate at the pool until 2015.

The post LGBT week in review: Lesbian student expelled, Griner inducted, lesbian moms denied first appeared on Lesbian.com.

BY CANDY PARKER

What did you miss this week in the world of LGBT news? Check out our Lesbian.com round-up and you’ll be ready to gather ’round the rainbow-colored water cooler to talk about five of the biggest, best and most interesting stories for June 29 – July 5.

Etheridge releases “Take My Number”

On Tuesday Melissa Etheridge released the debut single from her upcoming “This is ME” album. “Take My Number” is the first song off Etheridge’s much anticipated LP, expected to drop on September 30.

You can purchase the new song on iTunes and watch the official live video below.

Lesbian couple attacked after San Francisco Pride event

Police are investigating an attack on a lesbian couple in San Francisco in which the women were beaten and kicked by as many as six men.

Jennifer and Jakki, who requested that their last names not be released, were returning from a Pride event last Saturday evening when a group of men shouted a homophobic slur before initiating the attack on Jennifer.

The frightening ordeal left Jennifer with a concussion, bruises and lacerations while Jakki, who jumped in to try to protect her partner, suffered a broken wrist.

The couple speaks with a local news station in the video below.

Swedish ice hockey team shows support for LGBT rights

An ice hockey team in Kiruna, Sweden, announced that its players will don rainbow-colored uniforms for the 2014-2015 season in an effort to become the first sporting association to receive certification by the Swedish Federation for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Rights.

“During the season 2014/2015, Kiruna IF will change their uniforms and make a stand by wearing rainbow-colored jerseys,” the club announced in a press release. “In addition to this gesture, the players will give talks in schools, as part of a collaboration with Kiruna Municipality, and participate in events which aim to increase the understanding and acceptance of people’s differences and similarities. By setting a good example, Kiruna IF want to prevent bullying and exclusion and create the best opportunities for all young people to play and love hockey.”

Portia De Rossi rehab rumors

Reports surfaced this week that Portia De Rossi checked into Passages Malibu, a rehab facility, for treatment for drug and alcohol issues in early May following an “ugly fight” with wife Ellen DeGeneres.

An unnamed source told In Touch magazine that “Portia hadn’t been happy for a while and was drinking and isolating [herself], and Ellen confronted her. Portia lost it and blamed Ellen for driving her to drink because of her controlling ways and said she wasn’t in love with her anymore. Ellen was crushed and screamed at Portia to get out.”

The source continued, “Ellen is domineering and Portia is passive,” and their marriage is full of “jealousy, lies, and fighting.” De Rossi “felt like a prisoner in her own home. She went from sipping white wine occasionally to drinking at least a bottle or more a day and topping it off with a pill.”

During De Rossi’s 30-day stay at Passages, DeGeneres reportedly visited her every weekend to offer her support and the couple are said to be working to save the marriage.

DeGeneres and De Rossi issued no formal statement to address the reports.

Burger King unveils Proud Whopper for San Francisco Pride

A Burger King in downtown San Francisco celebrated Pride with the Proud Whopper, a Whopper wrapped in a rainbow-colored wrapper inscribed with the message “We are all the same inside.”

“It showcases who we are as a brand,” says Fernando Machado, senior vice president of global brand management at Burger King. “It shows how we, as a brand, believe in self-expression.”

All Proud Whopper sandwich sales, Machado says, will be donated to the Burger King McLamore Foundation for scholarships benefiting LGBT high school seniors graduating in spring 2015.

According to USA Today, one gay rights activist says Burger King is doing the right thing. “Whenever a company comes out in support of gay people, it makes a difference,” says Jordan Bach, a consultant to corporations on gay rights issues and a GLAAD media partner. “But when it’s done right — when it’s done with a campaign that shows the company understands diversity and really believes in the profound acceptance of other people — that sort of marketing can change minds and hearts at the deepest level.”

Burger King was also a sponsor of this year’s San Francisco Pride celebration, marking the first time the company has sponsored a U.S.-based Pride parade.

Watch public reaction to the Proud Whopper in the Burger King video below.

The post LGBT week in review: New Etheridge release, De Rossi rehab, Pride colors shine first appeared on Lesbian.com.

BY CANDY PARKER

What did you miss this week in the world of LGBT news? Check out our Lesbian.com round-up and you’ll be ready to gather ’round the rainbow-colored water cooler to talk about five of the biggest, best and most interesting stories for June 22-28.

Former “Survivor” contestant killed

“Survivor: Blood vs. Water” contestant Caleb Bankston, 26, was killed in a railway accident on Tuesday. Bankston competed last year with fiance Colton Cumbie and was a favorite among fans and fellow contestants.

“The entire Survivor crew is together in Nicaragua,” “Survivor” host Jeff Probst told People magazine in an exclusive statement. “We are shocked and deeply saddened by the loss of Caleb. He was one of the most humble and likable contestants we have ever had the pleasure of working with on the show. A true gentleman. He will be missed by so many. We extend our most sincere condolences to his family and to his fiance, Colton.”

Bankston was a conductor on the Alabama Warrior Railway line in Birmingham, Alabama. People reported that according to the Jefferson County coroner, Bankston was standing on a small ladder on the rear car of a loaded freight train. As an engineer began to back up, the car derailed, throwing the reality star onto the tracks. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Voters restore fired lesbian sheriff

Residents of a small South Carolina town voted Tuesday to reinstate Crystal Moore, a lesbian and 22-year veteran of the department, as sheriff in Latta. Moore had been fired from her position as sheriff by allegedly homophobic Mayor Earl Bullard in April.

The 1,500-resdient town voted to strip the mayor of some of his powers, granting authority to the town council to restore Ms. Moore to her position.

The Huffington Post reports that Wil Brown, a friend of Moore’s who launched a campaign to help her get her job back, indicated that the council is likely to meet Friday or Monday to formally vote to put Moore back on the beat.

Despite the overwhelming support of the town’s residents, Moore’s fate remains undetermined as later in the week, Mayor Bullard shocked the community by announcing that he had hired a new sheriff, Freddie Davis, before his authority to do so was revoked.

Utah, Indiana record marriage equality wins

On Wednesday, same sex couples in Utah and Indiana received good news from the courts.

First, in Indiana a federal judge struck down the state’s ban on gay marriage, making Indiana the 20th state in the U.S. where same-sex couples can wed. An hour later, a three-judge panel of the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver voted 2-1 to overturn Utah’s sate ban on same-sex marriages.

Couples in Indiana were able to begin marrying immediately, as the judge declined to issue a stay on the ruling. However, in the Utah case, the panel left Utah’s existing law in place as the appeals process continues, so same-sex couples are not yet eligible to get legally married in that state.

Bush White House employed at least 70 gay staffers

Politico published an article this week in which a gay former aide to George W. Bush estimated that there were at least 70 gay and lesbian staffers in the Bush White House.

In the piece, Steven Levine, a former White House advance aide, revealed that “one of his gay friends who had also worked in the White House sat down in front of Facebook and counted the Bush White House staffers he knew to be gay. He came up with at least 70 (only two of them women).”

The article also featured Bush’s openly gay AIDS czar, Scott Evertz was Bush’s openly gay AIDS czar who told Politico that “he was entirely unaware he had company.”

“I, of course — just by the law of statistics — knew that there were other gay people in the White House,” he says. “But not a single one of them was out to me, so I felt completely alone.”

Bush administration leaders were vocal supporters of the movement to amend the U.S. Constitution to federally ban gay marriage and public support for gay marriage dipped during the Republican president’s tenure. Under the subsequent Obama administration, public approval for same sex marriage has increased among both Democrats and Republicans.

Logo Network honors LGBT “Trailblazers”

On Friday, the one-year anniversary of DOMA’s defeat, the Logo Network aired its first “Trailblazers” special, a one-hour salute to the celebrities, politicians, activists and trendsetters actively working to effect cultural change for the betterment of the LGBT community.

Among the honorees were Edie Windsor and Roberta Kaplan, the cast of “Orange is the New Black,” and former NBA player Jason Collins.

Watch video highlights from the special below.

President Clinton salutes Edie Windsor and Roberta Kaplan

“Orange is the New Black’s” Lea Delaria’s red carpet interview

Demi Lovato talks about trailblazing gay grandfather

Lance Bass and Jason Marsden introduce “Trailblazer” Jason Collins

The post LGBT week in review: ‘Survivor’ killed, sheriff restored, marriage equality moves forward first appeared on Lesbian.com.

BY CANDY PARKER

What did you miss this week in the world of LGBT news? Check out our Lesbian.com round-up and you’ll be ready to gather ’round the rainbow-colored water cooler to talk about five of the biggest, best and most interesting stories for June 15-21.

5 marriage equality cases get their day in court

On Monday, the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals set August 6 as the date on which it will hear arguments for the five marriage equality cases pending before the court. The Cincinnati-seated court announced that arguments for cases in Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee would take place at 1p.m. in what could be a historic day for marriage equality in those states.

Only the Michigan case pertains directly to the right of same-sex couples to marry. The others address issues related to birth and death certificates and state recognition for same-sex marriages performed elsewhere.

Obama announces executive order protecting LGBT workers

Speaking at a Democratic National Committee gala in New York City Tuesday, President Obama received a standing ovation after announcing an executive order which would bar federal contractors from discriminating against LGBT workers.

“We don’t benefit as a country or an economy – businesses don’t benefit if they’re leaving talent off the field,” Obama said. “And that’s why I’ve directed my staff to prepare for my signature, an executive order prohibiting discrimination by federal contractors on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity… Because in the United States of America, who you are and who you love shouldn’t be a fireable offense.”

Obama went on to encourage passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA).

“It would be better, by the way, if Congress passed a more comprehensive law that didn’t just cover federal workers. And we need to keep working on that, so don’t take pressure off Congress,” Obama added.

Texas Governor skewered for comparing homosexuality to alcoholism

Comedians and late night talk show hosts continued to lambaste Texas Governor Rick Perry for comments he made the previous week before a gathering at San Francisco’s Commonwealth Club. Stephen Colbert, John Stewart and others chided Perry for comparing homosexuality to alcoholism.

“Whether or not you feel compelled to follow a particular lifestyle or not, you have the ability to decide not to do that,” said Perry. “I may have the genetic coding that I’m inclined to be an alcoholic, but I have the desire not to do that, and I look at the homosexual issue the same way.”

The latest to take aim at Perry’s remarks is Funny or Die who rebuked the governor in the best way possible – with uproarious hilarity – in the following NSFW video released this week.

Dutch “gay-only village” hoax goes viral

The gay rights group Pink Monday Foundation pulled the rainbow-colored wool over the eyes of international news outlets this week with the announcement of plans for the establishment of GayVillage, a purportedly “protected,” LGBT-only community to be constructed in the Netherlands.

The elaborate hoax gained credibility via a professional-looking website and promotional videos touting the development, as well endorsement by the mayor of Tilburg, the GayVillage’s announced location.

Pink Monday said that the outrage sparked by the stunt was exactly what they were hoping for. “The negative reactions we got are positive for Pink Monday. We are happy that people think a gay village is a crazy idea.”

News outlets were incensed by Mayor Peter Noordanus’ participation in the ruse, claiming that their credibility had been impacted. Noordanus said he had “underestimated the impact of my quote,” adding, “I did this with the aim of drawing attention to gay rights and not to trick the media and society.”

Presbyterian Church USA approves same-sex marriage

On Thursday, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA) voted to amend its Book of Order to redefine marriage, replacing the phrase “a man and a woman” to “two persons.”

The 429-175 vote by leaders of the PCUSA launches a path toward gay marriage throughout the denominations 10,000 churches across the country. A majority of the churches 172 regional bodies must now approve the change before it becomes official, a process which could take up to a year.

“This is a glorious day for the church and for LGBT people who have been seeking full inclusion here for decades,” said Rev. Randy Bush, the co-moderator of the board for Covenant Network, a pro-LGBT church group.

In a separate vote, the PCUSA also voted to allow pastors to officiate same-sex marriages in states where marriage equality is the law. No further approvals are needed on that measure, made final by the group’s 371-238 vote.

The post LGBT week in review: Marriage equality advances, gay village hoax goes viral first appeared on Lesbian.com.

David Malcom Strickland, 27, was charged with capital murder, aggravated assault with a weapon and aggravated sexual assault.

BY CANDY PARKER
Lesbian.com

Nearly two years after Mollie Olgin and Kristene Chapa were bound, shot in the head and left for dead in a park near Corpus Christi, Texas, police have made an arrest in the case.

On Friday, U.S. Marshals and Texas Rangers arrested David Malcolm Strickland, 27, in the San Antonio suburb of Helotes. Strickland’s wife, Laura Kimberly, 23. was also detained.

According to NBC News, Strickland faces charges of capital murder, aggravated assault with a weapon and aggravated sexual assault in the June 23, 2012, attack which left Olgin, 19, dead. Olgin’s girlfriend, Kristene Chapa, then 18, survived but continues to undergo rehabilitation in an effort to recovery from brain injuries sustained in the shooting.

“Thanks everyone for the texts, messages, and calls but my family and I are just kinda in shock and just shook up,” Chapa wrote on Facebook after the arrest was made. “We need time to let it sink and just process the news we’ve waited on for 2 years. Please keep us in your prayers.”

Police have not elaborated on a motive in the case, but the aggravated sexual assault charge provides the first indication since the attack that at least one of the women was raped. Police continue to assert that the attack was not a hate crime and that the girls’ sexual orientation was not a factor.

“I hope that it gives them some closure knowing that this person is taken off the street,” Portland Police Chief Gary Giles said of the victims’ families and the community. “It is one day before the two-year anniversary. We’ve been working very hard to make sure we get him as soon as possible. A series of fortunate events has led us to this point and I’m just very happy that we could help in — at least at this point — in bringing him to justice.”

“He’s a stone cold killer who thought he got away with murder, but will finally pay for his crime,” said Robert R. Almonte, United States Marshal for the Western District of Texas, according to the Corpus Christi Caller-Times. “My sympathies and condolences go to the victims and their families who had to endure this wicked act of violence.”

Strickland’s wife faces charges of tampering with evidence.

The post Arrest made in shooting of Texas lesbian couple first appeared on Lesbian.com.

BY CANDY PARKER

What did you miss this week in the world of LGBT news? Check out our Lesbian.com round-up and you’ll be ready to gather ’round the rainbow-colored water cooler to talk about five of the biggest, best and most interesting stories for June 8-14.

Clinton spars with NPR host

The internet was abuzz after former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s appearance on NPR Thursday during which “Fresh Air” host Terry Gross either badgered or persistently questioned (depending on your personal view of the exchange) regarding her evolving stance on marriage equality.

Gross appeared to imply that Clinton’s current support for same-sex marriage was a matter of political expediency. During Clinton’s 2008 campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2008, she endorsed domestic partnerships, but stated her opposition for same-sex marriage. In March 2013, Clinton issued a statement announcing, “I support marriage for lesbian and gay couples. I support it personally and as a matter of policy and law.”

Listen to Clinton’s exchange with Gross below and let us know what you think — was Clinton being dodgy or was Gross’ question asked and answered? Weigh in below in the “Leave a reply” block.

Vocativ lists 35 most LGBT-friendly cities

On Wednesday, global media giant Vocativ published its first Queer Index, ranking the most livable cities American cities for LGBT people.

Utilizing information obtained from open databases, public sites and social networks, including Craigslist, Facebook, Yelp, Rentboy, the U.S. census and the FBI crimes database, Vocativ determined which cities were the best places for LGBT people to live, work and socialize.

Perhaps surprisingly, San Francisco did not top the list of LGBT-friendly places, instead placing third behind New York City (No. 2) and Los Angeles (No.1).

To see how your city fared in Vocativ’s analysis, visit the Queer Index.

Michael Sam signs with St. Louis Rams

Last month, the St. Louis Rams made history when they selected Michael Sam in the NFL draft. Thursday, the team advanced that history a bit further as Sam inked a four-year, $2.65 million deal, making the former Missouri standout and SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Year the first openly gay player to be hired into a one of the four major professional sports leagues.

The deal guarantees Sam, 24, a minimum of $46,000.

After the announcement, the clearly elated Sam tweeted, “Grateful, humbled, and motivated after officially signing with all my Rams rookie brothers. Let’s do this!! #RamUp”

Anti-gay foreign minister named president of U.N. General Assembly

On Wednesday, Ugandan foreign minister Sam Kutesa was unanimously elected president of the U.N. General Assembly, sparking criticism from LGBT rights activists and their allies.

Kutesa supports Uganda’s controversial Anti-Homosexual Bill which criminalizes homosexuality and imposes a life sentence upon anyone found guilty of repeated same-sex sexual acts. The AP reported that the foreign minister has also faced corruption and bribery allegations.

The AP said that the position is “largely ceremonial but prestigious” and critics voiced concern that by bestowing the honor on Kutesa, and, by extension, Uganda, the U.N. was sending the wrong message regarding the country’s anit-gay legislation.

Same-sex marriages halted in Wisconsin

On Friday, U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb put at least a temporary halt to same-sex marriages in Wisconsin — just one week after she struck down the state’s ban.

It was clear from the judge’s remarks that she felt constrained by the Supreme Court: “”After seeing the expressions of joy on the faces of so many newly wedded couples featured in media reports, I find it difficult to impose a stay on the event that is responsible for eliciting that emotion, even if the stay is only temporary. Same-sex couples have waited many years to receive equal treatment under the law, so it is understandable that they do not want to wait any longer,” wrote Crabb in her decision, adding, “A federal district court is required to follow the guidance provided by the Supreme Court. Because I see no way to distinguish this case from Herbert, I conclude that I must stay any injunctive relief pending appeal.”

Herbert is a Supreme Court case in which same-sex marriages in Utah were put on hold.

The post LGBT week in review: Clinton spars, Sam signs, Wisconsin marriages stop first appeared on Lesbian.com.

A sampling from Facebook’s Pride pack

BY CANDY PARKER
Lesbian.com

What did you miss this week in the world of LGBT news? Check out our Lesbian.com round-up and you’ll be ready to gather ’round the rainbow-colored water cooler to talk about five of the biggest, best and most interesting stories for June 1-7.

Hill hurls homophobic slur; redeems with heartfelt apology

Jonah Hill found himself in some hot water last weekend when he chose to lash out at a paparazzo with a homophobic slur. But on Tuesday, the actor redeemed himself to many during an appearance on Jimmy Fallon’s “Tonight Show” with what appeared to be a sincere apology. Hill has been a long-time advocate for LGBT rights and seemed genuinely contrite as he addressed Fallon’s audience. “The word I chose was grotesque and no one deserves to say or hear words like that,” said Hill.

You can watch Hill’s apology below.

Chicago Sun-Times decides Laverne Cox is a woman after all

The Chicago Sun-Times drew harsh criticism for an op-ed piece which it ran last weekend titled “Laverne Cox is Not a Woman.” The piece, authored by the National Review’s Kevin D. Williamson and prompted by Cox’s recent Time magazine cover, argued that Cox was still a man whether she chose to label herself as one or not.

By Tuesday, the Chicago Sun-Times had realized the error of its ways (or had at least grown fearful of the resulting firestorm), pulled the story and issued an apology.

North Dakota last state to enter marriage equality fray

North Dakota no longer stands alone as the only state without a challenge to its constitutional ban on same sex marriage. On Friday, seven couples filed a lawsuit in the U.S. district court in Fargo, calling for an end to North Dakota’s constitutional ban and its refusal to accept gay marriages from out of state. With the filing, all 31 states which continue to have laws on the books defining marriage as a union between one man and one woman now face legal challenges at the federal level.

Military color guard makes history at D.C. Pride

History was made Saturday night in Washington, D.C., as an eight-member color guard team from U.S. Army Military District of Washington led off the 39th annual Capital Gay Pride parade. The group was the first Armed Forces color guard in American history to march in a gay pride parade.

Facebook releases LGBT emojis

Facebook kicked off LGBT Pride season by announcing the release of a 28-emoticon “Pride pack” available for Facebook Messenger users.

A Facebook diversity spokesperson told NewNowNext, ““We’re celebrating Pride by adding these free Facebook Messenger stickers to the Sticker Store. We see this as one more way we can make Facebook a place where people can express their authentic identity. Happy Pride!”

The post LGBT week in review: Apologies, emojis and a Pride parade first, oh my! first appeared on Lesbian.com.