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GLAAD Media Awards 2023

Margaret Cho to host the 34TH Annual GLAAD Media Awards in Los Angeles featuring special performances from Fletcher and Orville Peck

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Los Angeles Blade graphic via GLAAD

LOS ANGELES- GLAAD, the world’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer media advocacy organization, announced today that for the third consecutive year, Hulu will serve as the official streaming destination for the GLAAD Media Awards.

The Awards will be held in Los Angeles on Thursday, March 30, 2023 and will be available to stream on Hulu beginning Wednesday, April 12, 2023.

Emmy and Grammy nominated comedian and actress Margaret Cho will host the 34th Annual GLAAD Media Awards in Los Angeles which will feature performances by GLAAD Media Award Nominees for Outstanding Music Artist, FLETCHER and Orville Peck at the Beverly Hilton on Thursday, March 30, 2023.

The GLAAD Media Awards honor media for fair, accurate, and inclusive representations of LGBTQ people and issues. Since its inception in 1990, the GLAAD Media Awards have grown to be the most visible annual LGBTQ awards show in the world, sending powerful messages of acceptance to audiences globally.

Special guests include Angelica Ross (Pose, Framing Agnes), Betty Who, Billy Eichner (Bros), Brian Michael Smith (911: Lone Star), Brooke Eden, Chase Joynt (Framing Agnes), Gabrielle Union (The Inspection), Geena Davis (The Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media) Geena Rocero (Horse Barbie), Harvey Guillen (What We Do in the Shadows), Isis King (With Love), Jake Borelli (Grey’s Anatomy), Jen Richards (Framing Agnes), Joel Kim Booster (Fire Island), JORDY, Rafael Silva (911: Lone Star), Ronen Rubinstein (911: Lone Star), Sarah Michelle Gellar (Wolf Pack), Sherry Cola (Good Trouble), Ts Madison (Bros), Zackary Drucker (Framing Agnes), Zuri Adele (Good Trouble) and more.

As previously announced, Christina Aguilera will receive GLAAD’s Advocate for Change Award, recording artist and actor Bad Bunny will receive the Vanguard Award and film, television and Broadway star Jeremy Pope will receive the Stephen F. Kolzak Award.

During the Los Angeles ceremony, GLAAD will also announce award recipients for LGBTQ representation in categories that span film, TV, news, and Spanish-language media.

Earlier this year, GLAAD announced nearly 300 nominees.

This past January GLAAD, announced that it is presenting its prestigious Barbara Gittings Award for Excellence in LGBTQ Media to the Los Angeles Blade along with the Washington Blade.

“Together, representing 50 years, the Los Angeles Blade and Washington Blade’s relentless reporting reflects best-in-class journalism, reminding us all that LGBTQ issues and people have a stake in every news story and headline,” GLAAD said in a statement.

Previous recipients of the award have included The Advocate, Windy City Times, and Curve.

Margaret Cho is a five-time Grammy and Emmy nominated comedian, actress, musician, advocate and entrepreneur. Her recent television appearances – guest star on Season 2 of The Flight Attendant (HBO Max), guest star on Season 2 of Hacks (HBO Max) and two Netflix is a Joke comedy specials: Stand Out: An LGBTQ+ Celebration and Jane Fonda & Lily Tomlin: Ladies Night Live – have expanded an already wide-ranging career, and her role as the ‘mother hen’ in the well-reviewed movie Fire Island. 

As a comedian Margaret has been named one of Rolling Stone magazine’s 50 Best Stand-Up Comics of All Time, one of Vogue magazine’s Top 9 Female Comedians of all time, while CNN chose her as one of the 50 People Who Changed American Comedy. Her Disney+ movie, “Prom Pact” premieres on March 30.

Praised by leading outlets like Rolling Stone, TIME, Interview Magazine, and more, acclaimed singer and songwriter FLETCHER hails from Asbury Park, New Jersey, where she cultivated her passion for music and her unforgettably candid storytelling.

In 2019 she released her debut EP ‘you ruined new york city for me.’ The widely lauded EP features her breakthrough hit “Undrunk,” a track that spent several weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, scored the No.1 spot on Spotify’s Viral Chart, and emerged as the fastest-rising song at pop radio from a new artist in the past five years.

Released in September 2020, FLETCHER’s EP THE S(EX) TAPES hit No. 1 on iTunes across all genres featuring gold-certified lead single “Bitter” – which has amassed over 200 million global streams.

FLETCHER’s debut album Girl Of My Dreams arrived in September 2022 featuring the smash single “Becky’s So Hot” which hit #3 on the iTunes chart across all genres and landed on Billboard’s Hot Rock and Alternative Songs chart. The album earned raves from the likes of Rolling Stone, Billboard, Alternative Press, Vulture and many others while her music has amassed over a billion combined streams worldwide.

FLETCHER’s latest single, “Better Version (feat. Kelsea Ballerini) is available now on the Girl Of My Dreams (Deluxe) edition. In support of her LP, FLETCHER performed on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon”, and set out on sold-out headline tours across North America, Australia and Europe throughout 2022.

FLETCHER kicked off 2023 with a viral performance alongside Miley Cyrus on her “New Year’s Eve Party” on NBC. FLETCHER will continue her “Meet Her At The Bar Experience” in 2023, a program she launched last year in support of woman-owned queer bars around the country and GLAAD (raising $50,000 for their key initiatives with the support of her fanbase, brand partner JD Sports and co-sponsor Lyft).

Orville Peck is a country recording artist and songwriter known for his deep baritone voice, strong musicianship and songs that are sincere yet bold in their storytelling. Never confirming his identity, Orville, who is openly gay and lived an itinerant life across South Africa and the rural south, is never seen without his signature, fringed mask.

Following the release of his self-produced debut album Pony in 2019, Orville signed with Columbia Records and released his Show Pony EP. Released to immediate critical acclaim early last year, the EP features a duet with global icon Shania Twain and puts Orville’s triumphant songwriting skills and intentional craftmanship on full display. He then followed that up with BRONCO, which he released in chapters, alongside a multitude of cinematic videos. He was also hand selected by Lady Gaga for her Born This Way 10th Anniversary album.

Orville, known for his unique personal style, has collaborated with many fashion brands including but not limited to Dior, Michael KORS, ADIDAS X Ivy Park and Pamela Love amongst others.

Known for his live shows, Orville was one of the first artists to return to touring and has toured across the US, Europe, Australia and Canada. He has had sold out shows at Hollywood Bowl and Ryman Theatre, as well as major festival appearances at Lollapalooza, Stage Coach and Coachella amongst others.

When Orville is not performing or touring, he lends his time to activism and the causes he is committed to.

The Christina Aguilera Advocate for Change Award
Christina Aguilera, who has one of the most celebrated voices in history, has used her platform to be a bold advocate for the LGBTQ community, advancing conversations around LGBTQ acceptance and more, through music. Most recently, her impact on the LGBTQ community was realized after Club Q Colorado Springs shooting survivor, Michael Anderson, invoked her lyrics as he testified before the U.S. House Oversight Committee on LGBTQ violence. 

In 2002, Aguilera dedicated her single, “Beautiful,” to the LGBTQ community, with the line “words can’t bring us down” becoming a personal mantra for many queer people. The song brought a unique awareness and a sense of compassion in the face of hate, earning Aguilera a Special Recognition honor at the 14th GLAAD Media Awards. Last year, the seven-time Grammy-winner celebrated 20 years of “Beautiful” with a brand new music video, reminding people of the importance of accepting themselves for who they are.

A staunch supporter of LGBTQ rights and a visionary for representation, Aguilera raised over $500 million for HIV research with MAC cosmetics in 2004, spoke out loudly against Proposition 8 in 2008 and brought trans dancers and drag artists into the limelight during the 2012 American Music Awards.

Following the Pulse Nightclub mass shooting in Orlando, Aguilera dedicated the song, “Change,” to those affected by the tragedy with proceeds from the song going to victims’ families. She later penned a “Love Letter to the LGBTQ Community” for Billboard in 2017. Her very own Pride collection was launched in 2021, to proudly support two nonprofit organizations: TransTech and TransLash. Using the power of music to build bridges and demand change, Aguilera has redefined what it means to be a true advocate for the LGBTQ community, creating spaces for queer voices and talent to be known and thrive: From performing alongside breakthrough LGBTQ artists like Anitta, Syd, Kim Petras, Chika and Michaela Jaé, to condemning anti-LGBTQ legislation like Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law.

“Christina Aguilera is a beloved icon who has inspired and shared messages of love for the LGBTQ community since the start of her music career. From using her voice to speak out against anti-LGBTQ legislation to creating songs and music videos that showcase LGBTQ love, Christina loudly and proudly raises the bar for what it means to be a LGBTQ ally today,” said GLAAD President & CEO, Sarah Kate Ellis.

Bad Bunny’s Vanguard Award
Bad Bunny’s advocacy and outspoken allyship for the LGBTQ community has reached millions around the world . Named Spotify’s most-streamed artist of 2022, with 8.3 billion streams globally, the three-time Grammy-winning artist uses his craft to powerfully speak out as an ally to transgender people and advance equality for the LGBTQ community, bringing his own voice to the forefront to help others see themselves in the world.

As he reimagines the Latin urban music genre, LGBTQ people and issues remain in the vanguards of equality and inclusion for him, especially those in Puerto Rico, where he was born. His live performances and music videos cast an array of voices, experiences and backgrounds, showcasing queer love and affection on full display. For his music video for “Yo Perreo Sola,” he dressed in drag, telling Rolling Stone, “I did it to show support to those who need it. I may not be gay, but I’m a human.”

In a performance for “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” the rapper paid homage to Alexa Negrón Luciano, a trans woman murdered in the city of Toa Baja, wearing a shirt in Spanish that read: “They killed Alexa, not a man in a skirt.” In 2019, the artist also helped influence a movement to force former Puerto Rican Governor, Ricardo Rosselló, to step down from office, after being exposed for corruption and anti-LGBTQ attitudes.

Moving from sound booth to the big screen, Bad Bunny plans to executive produce the forthcoming Netflix adaptation of the New York Times bestselling novel, “They Both Die in the End,” which features a queer Latinx storyline.

Previous GLAAD Vito Russo Award recipient Ricky Martin told Rolling Stone that Bad Bunny is an “icon for the Latin queer community.”

“Bad Bunny uses his role as one of the world’s most popular music artists to boldly shine a light on LGBTQ people and issues, including transgender equality and ending violence against trans women of color,” said GLAAD President & CEO Sarah Kate Ellis. “By consistently advocating for our community, elevating our stories, and demanding action from anti-LGBTQ leaders, Bad Bunny redefines the positive influence Latin music artists can have within the LGBTQ community, and has set an example for all artists.”

Jeremy Pope’s Stephen F. Kolzak Award
Jeremy Pope is a multi-faceted out performer who has broken barriers across Broadway, television and film, earning two Tony Award nominations, a Grammy Award nomination, an Emmy Award nomination, and a Golden Globe Award nomination.

His breakthrough film role as Ellis French in Elegance Bratton’s autobiographical first feature, “The Inspection,” follows a closeted Black gay man through Marine Corps Recruit Training in a “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” era. That performance earned him his first Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama, as well as a Film Independent Spirit Award nomination for “Best Lead Performance.”

Pope’s rise from stage to screen began in 2018, when he earned two Tony Award nominations in the same season – one for Best Lead Actor in A Play for his Broadway debut performance in “Choir Boy” and a second nomination for Best Featured Actor in a musical for his performance in “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations.” Pope was soon cast in Ryan Murphy’s series “Hollywood,” where he earned an Emmy nomination for his lead performance as aspiring Black screenwriter Archie Coleman. Pope also had a meaningful arc in “Pose” and in the final season of the FX series, his character, Christopher, gave audiences a sense of visibility and belonging for trans experiences and for those living with HIV.

Pope is about to wrap his Broadway run as Jean-Michael Basquiat in Manhattan Theater Club’s “The Collaboration.” Later this year, he will be seen revisiting the role on the big screen.

“Jeremy Pope is one of today’s most talented and dynamic actors who has given life and excitement to important stories that impact and honor the LGBTQ community. Offscreen, Pope has used his voice to have important conversations about being an out actor in Hollywood, which are key to continuing to erase stigma and bias that affect out actors today,” said GLAAD President & CEO, Sarah Kate Ellis.

The 34th Annual GLAAD Media Awards
This year, GLAAD announced 295 nominees across 33 categories including two new categories: Outstanding Podcast and Outstanding Live TV Journalism – Segment or Special. For the first time ever, the Outstanding Reality Program category was also split to nominate both reality competition series and non-competition series independently.

The Outstanding Kids & Family Programming category was also split to nominate animated and live action programs independently. This year also includes ten nominees in the Outstanding Film – Wide Release category for the first time.

Last year, the 33rd GLAAD Media Awards in Los Angeles were hosted by Bob the Drag Queen, Eureka O’Hara and Shangela and were streamed on Hulu.

Cody Rigsby and Peppermint hosted the 33rd GLAAD Media Awards in New York City.

Both ceremonies featured appearances and performances by Dove Cameron, Kacey Musgraves, Ben Platt, Cody Rigsby, Ariana DeBose, Laverne Cox, Karine Jean-Pierre, Wilson Cruz, Cynthia Nixon, Gigi Gorgeous, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Judith Light, Anthony Rapp, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Christina Ricci, Cynthia Erivo, Shangela, JoJo Siwa and many more.

The Executive Producers of the 34th Annual GLAAD Media Awards are GLAAD President & CEO, Sarah Kate Ellis and GLAAD’s Rich Ferraro and Anthony Allen Ramos. STAMP Event Co. will produce.

The 34th Annual GLAAD Media Awards are presented by Gilead Sciences, Inc., Hyundai, and Ketel One Family Made Vodka. GLAAD is also grateful to Major Sponsor Delta Air Lines and Official Sponsor Sony Music Group.

To purchase tickets for the 34th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, please visit: www.glaad.org/mediaawards/tickets.

On socials please follow @GLAAD and #glaadawards

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Events

Unveiling “Trans Hirstory in 99 Objects” at the Hammer Museum

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 7:30 PM, as the Hammer Museum hosts a groundbreaking event

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Museum of Trans Hirstory & Art/Los Angeles Blade graphic

LOS ANGELES – Mark your calendars for Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 7:30 PM, as the Hammer Museum hosts a groundbreaking event centered around the launch of “Trans Hirstory in 99 Objects.”

This project, curated by artist Chris E. Vargas as part of the Museum of Trans Hirstory & Art (MOTHA), redefines conventional narratives by exploring trans art, activism, and resistance across more than four centuries.

Joining Vargas are a dynamic group of contributors and artists who have played integral roles in shaping the narrative of trans history.

Zackary Drucker is an American multimedia artist, director, and producer who has dedicated her work to telling stories that expand our cultural understanding of difference. Her credits include directing the Hulu Original documentary Queenmaker: The Making of an It Girl; and co-directing the Sundance award-winning HBO original documentary film The Stroll and the HBO documentary series The Lady and the Dale. She has performed and exhibited her work internationally in museums, galleries, and film festivals including the Whitney Biennial 2014, MoMA PS1, Hammer Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, MCA San Diego, and SF MoMA, among others.

Edgar Fabián Frías works in installation, photography, video art, sound, sculpture, printed textiles, GIFs, performance, social practice, and community organizing, among other forms. Their art addresses historical legacies and acts of resistance, resiliency, and radical imagination within the context of Indigenous Futurism, spirituality, play, pedagogy, animism, and queer aesthetics.

Raquel Gutiérrez is an award-winning critic, essayist, poet, and educator based in Southern Arizona. Gutiérrez’s first book Brown Neon (Coffee House Press) was named one of the best books of 2022 by The New Yorker and listed in the Best Art Books of 2022 by Hyperallergic.

Amos Mac is an out trans artist, writer, and co-founder of Original Plumbingmagazine. Amos has written and produced for television on shows including Gossip GirlClean Slate, and Gaycation and co-wrote No Ordinary Man, a documentary about the complicated jazz man and trans icon Billy Tipton.

Uri McMillan is a writer based in Los Angeles. He has published essays in Women & Performance: a journal of feminist theoryGLQ: A Journal of Lesbian and Gay StudiesASAP/Journal, and museum/gallery-based publications for the Studio Museum in Harlem, Aperture Foundation, MCA Chicago, and the Brooklyn Museum.

Chris E. Vargas is a video maker & interdisciplinary artist, an artist, the founder of the Museum of Trans Hirstory and Art, and co-editor of Trans Hirstory in 99 Objects. His work deploys humor and performance to explore the complex ways that queer and trans people negotiate spaces for themselves within historical and institutional memory and popular culture. He is a recipient of a 2016 Creative Capital award and a 2020 John S. Guggenheim fellowship.

Together, these visionary artists and thinkers will celebrate, discuss, and perform trans and non-binary magic, exploring themes of celebrity, activism, and trans-masculine histories. Through their collective efforts, they aim to challenge existing narratives, inspire dialogue, and foster a greater appreciation for the diverse experiences within the trans community.

Admission to the event is free, with seats assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Hammer Museum members enjoy priority ticketing and preferred seating. Valet parking is available on Lindbrook Drive, while self-parking is available under the museum.

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The Dru Project announces its 5th annual “Gun Violence is a Drag”

The event, held in honor of Pulse victim Drew Leinonen, raises funds for supporting queer youth scholars in college, grad school, and beyond

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The Dru Project/Los Angeles Blade graphic

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Dru Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion and acceptance, proudly presents the 5th Annual “Gun Violence is a Drag” show. This heartfelt and empowering evening is set to take place at Heart WeHo on February 10, 2024, promising a memorable and impactful experience for attendees. 

The event, held in honor of Pulse victim Drew Leinonen, aims to raise funds for supporting queer youth scholars in college, grad school, and beyond. The Dru Project continues its mission to create positive change and foster a sense of community through this unique and powerful event. 

This year’s “Gun Violence is a Drag” event will embrace a Valentine’s theme, adding a touch of love and solidarity to the drag brunch. Attendees can expect an unforgettable afternoon filled with entertainment, compassion, and a shared commitment to making a difference. 

Key highlights of the event include:

Celebrity Guests: The evening will be graced by the presence of prominent celebrity supporters who share The Dru Project’s vision for a more inclusive and accepting world. Past guests include: Melissa Rivers, Jai Rodriguez, Katie Thurston, Jonathan Bennett and Jaymes Vaughan, Lana Parrilla, and more. 

Raffles from Entertainment Sponsors: Generous support from entertainment sponsors will provide attendees with the chance to win exciting prizes through raffle drawings, adding an element of excitement to the fundraising efforts. 

Incredible Lineup of Drag Performers: The stage will come alive with an extraordinary lineup of drag performers from Ru Paul’s Drag Race, ensuring a brunch filled with captivating performances that celebrate self-expression and individuality. 

“We are thrilled to announce the 5th Annual ‘Gun Violence is a Drag’ event,” said Sara Grossman, Board President at The Dru Project. “This year’s Valentine’s theme adds a beautiful layer of love to our commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive world for queer youth. We invite everyone to join us for a night of entertainment, empowerment, and fundraising for a cause that truly makes a difference.”

Event Details: 

Date: February 10, 2024 

Location: Heart WeHo 

Theme: Valentine’s 

Time: Doors open at 12pm; Show begins at 1pm 

Individual tickets for the event can be purchased day-of, with all proceeds going directly to The Dru Project’s initiatives supporting queer youth.

The Dru Project is a non-profit organization founded in memory of Drew Leinonen, a victim of the Pulse nightclub shooting. The organization is dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion and acceptance, with a focus on supporting queer youth through scholarships and GSA materials.

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2024 Best of LGBTQ LA Finalist Voting

Finalist voting is now open until January 7, 2024- Winners will be announced at the Best of LGBTQ LA Party January 26th at Heart WeHo

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Los Angeles Blade graphic

LOS ANGELES – The 2024 Los Angeles Blade Best of LGBTQ LA Awards are here! Finalist voting is now open until January 7, 2024.

Winners will be announced at the Best of LGBTQ LA Party on Friday, January 26th at Heart WeHo. More details about the party will be coming soon.

VOTING IS NOW CLOSED!

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Los Angeles Zoo is proud to announce its upcoming Pride Night

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community, including family, friends, and allies, are invited to a night of celebration and unity on Jan. 4, 2024

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Photo courtesy of LAZoo Press

LOS ANGELES –  The Los Angeles Zoo is proud to announce its upcoming Pride Night on Jan. 4, 2024, from 6 – 10 p.m., at L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow, in collaboration with L.A. Pride.

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community, including family, friends, and allies, are invited to a night of celebration and unity on Jan. 4, 2024

“The L.A. Zoo is committed to being a safe and welcoming place for all of our communities, including those who visit and work at the Zoo,” said Jess Kohring, Curator of Community Inclusion, L.A. Zoo. “Pride Night is put together as an opportunity for LGBTQIA+ staff, community members, friends, families, and allies to come together in a supportive environment to experience L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow.”

What to Expect at Pride Night at L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow:

  • Dance party for all ages at Treetops Terrace, featuring the musical stylings of DJ Brynn Taylor;
  • Full cocktail bar for adults ages 21+, including two signature Pride Night cocktails — “Pride Punch” and “Taste the Rainbow,” served with a side of Skittles;
  • Fun Pride photo opportunities throughout the L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow event.

L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow is a festive celebration of nature, wildlife, and the winter holiday season and will run through Jan. 7, 2024. This enchanting festival of lights showcases stunning lantern sculptures, vibrant interactive displays, roaming live entertainment, and festive holiday photo opportunities, creating a magical wonderland of lights beneath the stars. All ages are welcome to join in the festivities and experience the magic of L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow in a supportive and inclusive environment. Ticket prices for L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow start at $18 for children and $29 for adults (13+), with free parking included. GLAZA members can enjoy up to a 27 percent discount on nightly tickets.

For more information and ticket details, please visit www.lazoolights.org.  

The Los Angeles Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is dedicated to providing exemplary animal care and wellbeing.  As a trusted leader in local and global conservation efforts, the Los Angeles Zoo is saving wildlife and connecting Angelenos to the natural world by delivering diverse learning opportunities and creating unforgettable experiences. The lush 133-acre campus and its passionate and dedicated team welcomes all to be inspired by the Zoo’s vision to create a just and sustainable world where people and wildlife thrive, together.

The Zoo is located on Zoo Drive in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. Admission is $22 for adults and $17 for children ages 2 to 12.

For information, call (323) 644-4200 or visit the L.A. Zoo website at www.lazoo.org.



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Jingle & Mingle: Holiday event focused on queer immigrant stories

The Los Angeles Blade partnered with AIDS Healthcare Foundation affinity group The Latino Outreach and Understanding Division (LOUD)

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Drag star Melissa BeFierce (Photo by Jorge Barragán)

WEST HOLLYWOOD – The Los Angeles Blade, partnered with AIDS Healthcare Foundation affinity group The Latino Outreach and Understanding Division (LOUD), on held December 22, a joyful evening of food, hobnobbing, music, and entertainment at HEART WeHo.

The event attracted a diverse crowd of 150 people from the worlds of politics, entertainment, nightlife, media and community members from around the SoCal area.

The event kicked off with a vibrant performance by Drag star Melissa BeFierce and Veronica, opening the show with a review of Jennifer Lopez’s Spanish language hits, “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,” “Como Lo Flor,” “Amor Prohibido” and “I Could Fall in Love.”

Blade publisher Troy Masters welcomed the crowd:

“I have learned from someone very special to me that people who are in this country as an asylum seeker, a DACA recipient or as an Undocumented person, you do not have access to the same legal protections that I do, that most of you do,” he said. “I believe that is one of the many inequalities facing immigrants that needs to be addressed and that’s one of the topics I hope we will discuss tonight,” Masters added.

Masters then introduced Edwin Millán, International President of LOUD, who greeted the many VIPs in attendance and thanking everyone for “giving up their Friday night before Christmas to support this event and the LGBTQ immigration community.”

Edwin Millán, International President of LOUD (Photo by Jorge Barragán)

Millán then presented 4 panelists representing a  diverse immigration experience; Gretta Soto Moreno, a Mexican trans who said that it took her 13 years to obtain asylum, but that during that time she experienced difficult situations, including spending three years in prison; Jesús Paizano, a 22-year-old Venezuelan asylum seeker who explained that after two and a half years, he still has not received a resolution; Hans Vompakerth, a 23-year-old undocumented Colombian gay, said that he has not yet decided to apply for asylum for fear of facing deportation; and Laura Morales García, who arrived in the United States when she was two years old, explained what it was like to get DACA and what this means for her.

Editor’s note: For the original reporting in English regarding the panelists please go to this link: (here)

Aquí están sus historias

Gretta Soto Moreno, Guerrera por los Derechos de los Inmigrantes Trans (Foto de Jorge Barragán)

El viaje de Gretta Soto Moreno es un testimonio de las dificultades que enfrentan los solicitantes de asilo y las luchas dentro del sistema de detención de EE. UU. Gretta, una mujer transgénero que huye de años de tormento, soportando agresiones y amenazas en México, su país de origen, lamentablemente se encontró sufriendo abusos similares al llegar a EE. UU.

Antes de irse, la familia de Gretta desconocía sus luchas, centrándose en lugar en sus propios asuntos. México no solo era violento, sino también aislante y traumatizante. Es un lugar difícil para ser uno mismo auténtico.

Pero hubo momentos felices, como la fiesta navideña de la oficina donde se presentó valientemente como Gretta, sorprendiendo a una colega católica que, según Gretta, no tenía idea. “Se sorprendió porque notó a esta ‘mujer bonita’ organizando la fiesta; yo también me sorprendí porque cuando se dio cuenta de que era yo, estaba extasiada”, dijo Gretta. “Su reacción fue tan inesperada y me hizo sentir especial”.

Las personas transgénero, especialmente en un lugar como México, rara vez encuentran tal aceptación.

Gretta sufrió la pérdida de su mayor defensora cuando su abuela falleció. Ella había sido la fuerza más protectora y solidaria en su vida. “Cuando murió, me sentí tan sola y perdida… Ella siempre supo que era diferente de los demás niños, pero para ella eso me hacía muy especial”. Al darse cuenta de que estaba sola y de que su vida no mejoraría en México, eligió buscar asilo en Estados Unidos. Pero su viaje migratorio estuvo lleno de desafíos.

El arresto y la condena relacionada con el alcohol de Gretta complicaron su solicitud de asilo. Y como persona transgénero que tuvo que abordar su encarcelamiento pasado, las cosas se volvieron muy complicadas, una historia que refleja la situación de muchas personas trans en circunstancias similares. “Mis condenas por alcohol me hicieron muy difícil convencer al juez de inmigración de que mi reclamo de asilo era legítimo; y eso es realmente difícil porque como persona trans, que te crean o que cuestionen tu verdad es realmente traumático”, dijo.

En el Centro de Detención de Eloy, Gretta soportó abusos y la negación de medicamentos esenciales para personas transgénero, repitiendo los mismos horrores de los que huía. Trasladada a una unidad LGBTQ en Santa Ana, las esperanzas de alivio se desvanecieron a medida que los registros invasivos persistieron, ignorando su identidad e infligiendo un trauma mental y físico severo.

La historia de Gretta arroja luz sobre la cruel realidad que enfrentan los inmigrantes, exponiendo el desprecio insensible por la identidad y el abuso sistémico prevalente dentro de los centros de detención. Su narrativa revela el sufrimiento profundo soportado por personas como ella, independientemente de sus antecedentes o luchas.

Gretta es una especie de guerrera por los derechos de los solicitantes de asilo trans y se ve a sí misma como alguien que lucha contra un oponente mucho más grande. “Me encanta la historia de David y Goliat. Lo pienso como una historia de amor gay, en la que el rey Saúl se enamoró de David”, dice. David, al igual que Gretta, luchó contra un oponente mucho más grande, esperando llevar paz y seguridad a una tribu de personas a las que amaba.

“Amo a mis hermanas y hermanos trans y haré lo que sea necesario para hacer del mundo un lugar mejor y para hacer del asilo un lugar seguro y afirmativo”, dice. “Nadie que busque cambiar su situación debería ser castigado y obligado a regresar a ella. Pero los inmigrantes son personas vulnerables que a menudo descubren que defender nuestros derechos resulta en complicaciones que empeoran la situación”, explica. “Juro cambiar eso”.

Jesús Paizano, hablando con micrófono, un solicitante de asilo venezolano de 22 años, defiende la igualdad en inmigración (Foto de Jorge Barragán)

Jesús Paizano es un estudiante que rara vez pasa por alto un detalle y puede enfrentarse a las personas más inteligentes de la habitación, incluso a personas tres veces mayores que él. Entonces, cuando se propone algo, va a por ello con confianza y no hay nada ni nadie en su camino que pueda detenerlo.

Quizás esa sea una cualidad que adquirió después de ver a su padre, un jugador bien conectado en el gobierno de Hugo Chávez, perdiera todo. “Mi papá trabajó con el gobierno de Hugo Chávez y luego con el presidente Nicolás Maduro. Pero tuvo un desacuerdo con Diosdado Cabello, quien también es uno de los más altos diplomáticos de Venezuela. Mi padre se negó a seguir órdenes arbitrarias y, en respuesta a eso, fue políticamente arruinado y destituido”.

Jesús fue testigo de primera mano del impacto que tuvo en su padre y toda su familia, ya que las normas de privilegio, paz, posición, posesiones y su sentido de seguridad les fueron arrebatados. Venezuela desde 2013, cuando Jesús tenía solo 12 años, descendió lentamente a una situación de extrema violencia política y desastre económico que ha resultado en una crisis humanitaria y un éxodo sin precedentes: más de 7 millones de personas han huido.

Desde niño, veía el mundo a través de ese prisma arrugado y, en su adolescencia, se dio cuenta de que sus posibilidades de éxito eran muy limitadas. Añade a eso su realización de que ser gay en una cultura muy cerrada y machista era otro golpe en su contra; de hecho, conoce a muchos jóvenes homosexuales que fueron víctimas de violencia homofóbica, algunos de los cuales se quitaron la vida o simplemente desaparecieron.

Determinado a salvarse a sí mismo, decidió huir. Jesús puso su mirada en Estados Unidos, convirtiéndose en uno de los más de 1 millón de solicitantes de asilo venezolanos del mundo. Por supuesto, eso significó despedirse de la familia y, aunque estuvo lleno de ansiedades no expresadas, la promesa de un futuro más brillante superó el dolor de la separación. Y, además, era joven y “nunca pensé en ello como una despedida”.

El viaje a la frontera de Estados Unidos cerca de San Diego no fue tan aterrador como cruzar realmente a Estados Unidos. Siendo pragmático, cuando vio a la policía, decidió entregarse de inmediato y comenzar a presentar su solicitud de asilo. Durante los siguientes seis meses, fue enviado de centro de detención a centro de detención. “La detención a veces daba miedo y me enfermé mucho y también tuve Covid, pero había algo en ello que era gratificante”, dijo. “Había otras personas gay y algunas personas trans y nos cuidábamos mutuamente”.

Finalmente, se conectó con un patrocinador en Los Ángeles que le envió un boleto a LAX. “Me recogieron y lo primero que hicimos fue ir a The Abbey y luego a la casa. Nunca había sentido un alivio tan grande en mi vida”.

Al establecerse en Estados Unidos, Jesús encontró un panorama muy diferente al de su tierra natal. La apertura de su identidad LGBTQ se destaca en marcado contraste con las limitaciones que enfrentó en casa. “En el camino, sin embargo, ha habido lecciones de civismo que fueron una sorpresa”. Jesús dice que hay una brecha peligrosa en la capacidad de un inmigrante para obtener justicia a través del sistema judicial ordinario. Él dice: “la diferencia entre los derechos que tiene un inmigrante y los de un ciudadano estadounidense crea una brecha que se puede usar para controlar o manipular e incluso explotar a las personas”, dice. “Los inmigrantes dudan en luchar por sus derechos legales cuando han sido agraviados o heridos e incluso cuando han sufrido agresiones o violencia en su contra”, dice. “La gente teme que de alguna manera pueda afectar su caso de inmigración”. Él aboga apasionadamente por una defensa más fuerte y acceso a un sistema que proteja y empodere a todos, independientemente de su estatus de ciudadanía.

“Yo soy un inmigrante, no un extraterrestre”, declara. “Bueno, tal vez soy un extraterrestre, pero no del tipo terrestre”, bromea. “Pero creo en la IGUALDAD”, dice refiriéndose a las diferencias en los derechos de recurso legal que tiene un inmigrante en comparación con un ciudadano estadounidense.

“Amo a este país y cuando me convierta en ciudadano estadounidense, lo honraré como un privilegio otorgado por uno de los pocos países donde la democracia aún sobrevive. Pero tiene que hacerlo mejor para proteger los derechos de los inmigrantes que ya están aquí”, dice. Jesús se niega a ser encasillado por suposiciones sociales. 

Se ve a sí mismo no como un forastero, sino como un contribuyente, listo para enriquecer la vida estadounidense. “Un día espero tener hijos y quiero que tengan una vida libre de las cosas que experimenté en Venezuela”, dijo. Jesús cree en segundas oportunidades y no está limitado por dogmas religiosos ni moralizaciones; en cambio, desafía todo eso. “No creo en el cielo ni en el infierno. Nadie sabe la respuesta sobre si hay una vida después de la muerte”, dice. “Todo lo que sé es que todo tiene un comienzo y un final. Y me gustaría creer que después de que algo termina, hay un nuevo comienzo”.

Hans Vompakerth, hablando con un micrófono, un viaje indocumentado desde Colombia
(Foto de Jorge Barragán)

Hans Vompakerth es un joven gay de 23 años de Medellín, Colombia, y a pesar de ser indocumentado, dice que no tiene miedo de contar su historia.

“Hay miles de personas como yo y no les suceden cosas malas, así que ¿por qué debería guardarlo en secreto?”

Después de todo, no ha hecho nada malo, dado el poco acogedor ojo oficial de las autoridades de inmigración al llegar a los Estados Unidos.

“Hubo dos ocasiones en las que ingresé a los Estados Unidos cerca de Tijuana… La primera vez me devolvieron al lado mexicano de la frontera”, dice. Pasó un año y lo intentó de nuevo.

“Me capturaron y me procesaron como antes, pero esta vez, en lugar de devolverme al lado mexicano, me llevaron, a mí y a un grupo de personas, en un automóvil blanco del gobierno y nos dejaron en medio de la nada en el lado estadounidense. Nos dejaron buscando civilización”.

La determinación de Hans de venir a los Estados Unidos parece provenir de su respeto y admiración duraderos por su trabajadora madre. Son tan cercanos que la única persona que sabía que iba a salir de Colombia era ella. El resto de su familia estaba en la oscuridad hasta que él se instaló de manera segura en los Estados Unidos y su madre los informó.

“Lo hice por ella. Trabajó tan duro para mantener unida a la familia y supongo que, como el hijo mayor, quería hacerle la vida más fácil y proveer para ella, mis 3 hermanas y mi hermano menor”, dice.

Sin embargo, en marzo pasado, la familia sufrió una tragedia. Su hermano menor, de 20 años, dejó el hogar sin avisar. Después de unos días de búsqueda constante y preocupación, la familia fue informada de que su cuerpo había aparecido en una isla cercana.

“Me sentí impotente. No pude regresar ni hacer nada excepto ayudar con todos los gastos”, dijo con dolor. “Tuve que consolarme sabiendo que mis hermanas estaban allí para cuidar de ella mientras ella lloraba”. A pesar de las presiones familiares, en Estados Unidos, Hans dice que tiene un nuevo sentido de la vida que contrasta fuertemente con los oscuros desafíos que enfrentó en su tierra natal.

“Siento que soy mucho más respetado y aceptado por todos. Me siento mucho más resiliente y feliz, y eso me ha permitido superarlo todo. Cuando murió mi hermano, lloré trabajando más duro y usando el dinero para cubrir los gastos del funeral. Todos los días, pasaba horas en WhatsApp con mi mamá y todavía lo hago”.

Entonces, no fue la violencia y la homofobia lo que motivó a Hans a dejar Colombia. “Nunca fui víctima de discriminación o violencia en Colombia”, dice. “Huí de una situación donde había escasez de todo, sin recursos en general, ni siquiera suficiente comida. Vivía en constante tumulto económico, incluso mi propia salud se vio afectada. No había trabajos.

“Y si mi mamá y mi familia iban a sobrevivir”, dijo, “tenía que huir”. “No experimenté violencia ni homofobia hasta que puse un pie en México y tuve contacto con las autoridades de inmigración de Estados Unidos”, dijo. “Fueron horribles conmigo”.

Pero desde que llegó a Los Ángeles, Hans dice que no ha experimentado discriminación ni violencia. Aunque ha requerido persistencia y no ha sido fácil, Hans dice que su viaje de inmigración ha sido lo más importante que ha hecho en su vida. “Fue una decisión que lo cambió todo para mí y mi familia”.

Pero aún no ha logrado lo que llama su sueño americano, obtener estatus legal y vivir en este país sin temor a ser devuelto. Hans tiene una perspectiva muy positiva y una creencia en la bondad innata de las personas, aunque es muy consciente del lado oscuro. “Mudarme a este país”, declara, “ha cambiado mi vida. Vivir en Estados Unidos me ha ayudado a levantarme, a ser disciplinado, a ser sensible, a aprender más, a cuidarme más a mí mismo y a ayudar a todos los que me importan”.

Laura Morales García, hablando con micrófono, nació en Durango, México y llegó a Los Ángeles a la temprana edad de 2 años, donde llegó con su familia indocumentada.
(Foto de Jorge Barragán)

Laura Morales García nació en Durango, México y llegó a Los Ángeles a la temprana edad de 2 años, donde llegó con su familia indocumentada.

Ha pasado toda su vida defendiendo a los beneficiarios de DACA y es una de las principales expertas en el tema y una destacada defensora. Se graduó de Los Angeles High School y fue la primera en su familia en asistir a la universidad, obteniendo su título en Psicología Clínica.

García se dedica al servicio público y trabaja para educar a los estudiantes de secundaria sobre la comunidad LGBTQ+.

Es embajadora de AHF, representante de farmacias y enlace comunitario de AHF para la prevención y atención del VIH.

The event was sponsored by Los Angeles Blade, LOUD, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, the office of LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis, the office of LA County Supervisor Chair Lindsey Horvath and Equality California.

Denounce hate by calling (833) 866-4283 or 833-8-NO-HATE, callers can report anonymously Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

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LGBTQ asylum seekers: Journey complicated by restrictive policies

The event, to be held at HEART WeHo on December 22 at 8 PM, will feature an outstanding panel of affected people from the Latino community 

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Los Angeles Blade graphic

LOS ANGELES – The mere fact that LGBTQ people can claim refugee status and seek safe haven in this country based on dangers they face in their home country by anti-LGBTQ forces and laws was a hard fought, massive victory for LGBTQ refugees and one that has only been recently enacted.

In about 70 countries same-sex relations are criminalized and, in six countries, punishable by death. Many LGBTQ refugees and asylum seekers have endured years of exclusion, discrimination, and even violence by family, community, and authorities before being forced to flee home.

Many LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers experience trauma inflicted by circumstances which led to them fleeing their nations of origin. That can have long-lasting mental health effects, including a range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Obtaining asylum status or permanent residency in the United States can also be a traumatizing experience as the process can take years of uncertainty. 

Pew Research recently noted that since President Joe Biden took office in January 2021, his administration has acted on a number of fronts to reverse Trump Administration-era restrictions on immigration to the United States.

The steps included plans to boost refugee admissions, preserving deportation relief for unauthorized immigrants who came to the U.S. as children and not enforcing the “public charge” rule that denies green cards to immigrants who might use public benefits like Medicaid.

Scripps News journalist John Mone reported that the United Nations World Refugee Agency that by the end of 2022, close to 110 million people were forcibly displaced around the globe due to violence, persecution or human rights violations.

The Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, in its June 2022 report noted:

Only 37 countries formally grant asylum to individuals due to a well-founded fear of persecution on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI).

Studies show that a main obstacle to seeking asylum appears to be lack of awareness that sexual orientation and gender identity constitute viable grounds for an asylum claim.

  • Research shows that the process of applying for asylum can itself have deleterious effects on LGBTQI+ persons. One recent study found that asylum applicants experience negative mental
    and physical health outcomes and economic insecurity as they wait in a precarious state of uncertainty.
  • A number of studies show how the requirements for a successful asylum claim require that LGBTQI+ migrants “come out” to present themselves as a sexual or gender minority, but do so in a way that is “credible” and “legible” to asylum adjudicators. One study attributed the cause of most denied SOGI claims to “disbelief of sexual orientation” or “lack of credibility,” which are typically predicated on heteronormative and Western conceptions of sexuality and expectations of queer lifestyles often rooted in stereotypes or prejudice.
  • A number of studies point to the challenge posed by adjudicators who may conflate sex with sexuality to the extent that sexual behavior forms a key part of the claimant’s narrative about
    their sexual orientation. Applicants without sexual or romantic histories are therefore routinely discredited.
  • “Proving” one’s identity is particularly challenging for transgender asylum seekers. Adjudicators often rely on outdated medicalized notions of what it means to be transgender in which, to be deemed “valid” and “real,” transgender people must desire and seek out medical intervention.
  • Bisexual claimants are often denied asylum due to understandings of bisexuality based on stereotypes, that is, the notion that bisexual migrants can simply choose partners of the opposite sex.
  • Documentation of country conditions is critical evidence to demonstrate a fear of persecution.
  • The experience of “coming out under the gun” in the course of applying for asylum can be actively retraumatizing for vulnerable migrants.

The changes reportedly under discussion by the Biden administration include placing a cap on asylum seekers, expanding detention and deportation of asylum seekers, creating a Title 42-like policy that would expel those entering the U.S. without the chance to ask for asylum, raising the bar for asylum seekers to prove the danger they are facing, codifying aspects of the asylum ban such as a third-country transit ban for those seeking protection at the border, and restricting asylum based on how asylum seekers enter the country.

These policies will result in many people who could otherwise be eligible for asylum being returned to the very danger they are trying to escape — in direct contradiction of federal and international law.

Then there is also the fiscal reality for LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers. To work legally in the country based on a Pending Asylum Application, asylum seekers are allowed apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) known as a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.

However, this can only be done in the time frame of 150 days after the asylum application has been filed. Many asylum seekers arrive with extremely limited funds and in many cases outside of charitable assistance by organizations, churches or private individuals, find themselves supporting themselves illegally, and in the cases of LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers, this can include sex work which has the potential to lead to human trafficking.

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The Los Angeles Blade teamed up with The Latino Outreach and Understanding Division (LOUD) to host a Holiday Party celebrating the journey’s of LGBTQ Asylum Seekers, DACA recipients and undocumented folks. 

The event, to be held at HEART WeHo on December 22 at 8 PM, will feature an outstanding panel of affected people from the Latino community who will share their stories

Gretta Soto Moreno, a Mexican trans woman who is an asylum seeker, seeking safety from the persecution she experienced there. Jesus Paizano is a 22-year-old Venezuelan asylum seeker who is deeply passionate about immigration equality and justice. Hans Vompakerth an undocumented 23-year-old gay man determined to find his American dream. Laura Morales Garcia, a DACA recipient who arrived in this country at 2-years-old and who is fighting to strengthen the rights of people in her category.

Edwin Milan

The panel will be moderated by Edwin Millan, a native of Lima-Peru. Edwin is the International President of The Latino Outreach and Understanding Division (LOUD), an affinity group of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, which addresses the social and health disparities that threaten the Latino Community.

By organizing events like the holiday party, LOUD, an affinity group of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, establishes a worldwide reach and earns recognition as one of the most influential Latino advocacy organizations.

Gretta Soto Moreno’s journey is a testament to the hardships faced by asylum seekers and the struggles within the U.S. detention system. A transgender woman fleeing years of torment—enduring assaults and threats in Mexico, her home country —sadly found herself suffering similar abuses upon reaching the U.S.

Mexico was not only violent, it was isolating and traumatizing. It’s a hard place to be your authentic self.

Gretta Soto Moreno, warrior for transgender immigrant rights

But there were happy moments, like the office Christmas party where she bravely presented herself as Gretta, stunning a Catholic colleague who Moreno says had no idea. “She was shocked because she noticed this ‘pretty woman’ managing the party; I was shocked too because  when she realized it was me, she was ecstatic,” Moreno said. “Her reaction was so unexpected and it made me feel special.” 

She suffered the passing of her biggest champion when her grandmother passed away. She had been the most protective and supportive force in her life.. “When  she died, I felt so alone and lost.. She always knew I was different that the rest of the kids but to her that made me very special.”

Realizing she was alone and that her life would never improve in Mexico, she chose to seek asylum in the U.S.. But, navigating immigration was full of challenges. 

Moreno’s alcohol-related arrest and conviction compounded her plea for asylum. And as a trans person having to address past incarceration, things became very complicated, a story echoing the plight of many trans individuals in similar circumstances. “My alcohol convictions made it very hard to convince the immigration judge that my asylum claim was legitimate; and that is really hard because as a trans person, being believed or having your truth questioned is really traumatizing,” she said.

Jesus Paizano, a 22 year old Venezuelan asylum seeker, takes a stand for immigration equality.

Jesus Paizano is a quick study who rarely misses a detail so, when he sets his sights on something, he confidently goes for it and there’s nothing or no one in his path who can stop him. 

“My dad worked with the government of Hugo Chavez, and later president Nicolas Maduro. But he had a dispute with Diosdado Cabello, who is also one of Venezuela’s highest diplomats. My father refused to follow arbitrary orders and in response to that he was politically ruined and removed from office.”

Paizano witnessed first hand the impact that had on his father and his entire family, as the norms of privilege, peace, position, possessions and their sense of safety were taken from them. 

Venezuela since 2013, when Jesus was only 12-years-old, has slowly descended into extreme political violence and economic disaster that resulted in a humanitarian crisis and unprecedented exodus: more than 7 million people have fled.

In his teenage years, Paizano realized that his chances of success were very limited and the realization that being gay in a very closeted, macho culture was another strike against him. In fact he knows many young gay men who were victims of antigay violence, some of whom took their lives or who simply disappeared. 

Determined to save himself, he became one of the more than 1 million Venezuelan asylum seekers. But the promise of a brighter future outweighed the pain of separation. And, besides, he was young and “never thought of it as goodbye.”

The journey to the U.S. border near San Diego was not as scary as actually crossing into the U.S.. Ever pragmatic, when he saw the police he decided to immediately surrender and begin to make his asylum plea. For the next six months he was routed from detention facility to detention facility. 

“Detention was scary at times and I got very sick and also had Covid, but there was something about it that was rewarding,” he said. “There were other gay people there and some trans people and we watched out for one another.” 

Eventually, he was connected to a sponsor in Los Angeles who sent him a ticket to LAX. “They picked me up and the first thing we did was go to The Abbey and then to the house. I had never felt such relief in my life.”

Paizano encountered a landscape starkly different from his homeland. The open embrace of his LGBTQ identity stands in stark contrast to the limitations he faced back home.  

He says there is a dangerous gap in an immigrant’s ability to get justice through the ordinary court system. He noted “the difference between the rights an immigrant has and those of an American citizen has sets up a gap that can be used to control or manipulate and even exploit people.”

“I love this country and when I become a U.S. citizen, I will honor that as a privilege bestowed by one of the few countries where democracy still survives. But it has to do better to protect the rights of immigrants who are already here,” Paizano said. 

Hans Vompakerth, an undocumented journey out of Colombia.

Hans Vompakerth is a 23-year-old gay man from Medellin, Colombia and despite being undocumented, he says he has no fear telling his story.

“There are thousands of people like me and they do not have bad things happen to them, so why would I have to keep it a secret?”

“There were two occasions in which I entered the US near Tijuana. The first time they returned me to the Mexican side of the border,” he says.  A year passed and he tried again.

”They captured me and processed me like before, but this time, instead of returning me to the Mexican side, they took me and a group of people in a white government car and left us in the middle of nowhere on the American side! We were left to set about looking for civilization.”

Vompakerth’s determination to come to the U.S. seems to come from his abiding respect and admiration he has for his hard working mother. They are so close that the only person who knew he was going to leave Colombia was her.

“I did it for her. She worked so hard to hold the family together and I guess, as the oldest son, I wanted to make life easier for her and provide for her, my 3 sisters and my younger brother,” he says.

Last March, however, the family suffered  tragedy. His younger brother, 20, left home unannounced. After a few days of constant search and worry, the family was informed that his body had washed ashore on a nearby island.

 “I felt powerless. I wasn’t able to return or do anything except help with all the expenses,” he said with heartache. “I had to take some comfort knowing that my sisters were there to take care of her while she grieved.”

Despite family pressures, in the U.S., Vompakerth says he has a newfound sense of life that contrasts starkly with the dark challenges he faced back home. 

“I feel I am much more respected and accepted by everyone. I feel much more resilient and happy and that has made it possible for me to get through everything. When my brother died, I grieved by working harder and using the money to cover funeral expenses. Everyday, I spent hours on WhatsApp with my mom and I still do.”

So, it wasn’t violence and homophobia that motivated Hans to leave Colombia. “I was never a victim of discrimination or violence in Colombia,” he says. “I fled a situation where there was a scarcity of everything, no resources in general- not even enough food. I lived in constant economic turmoil, even my own health was affected. There were no jobs. 

“I didn’t experience violence or homophobia until I set foot in Mexico and had contact with immigration authorities from the U.S.,” he said. “They were awful to me.” 

But since arriving in Los Angeles, Hans says he hasn’t experienced discrimination or violence.

“Moving to this country,” he declares, “has changed my life. “Living in the US has helped me pull myself up, to be disciplined, to be sensitive, to learn more, to care more about myself and to help everyone I care about.”

Laura Morales Garcia, a dreamer and devoted DACA recipient.

Laura Morales Garcia was born in Durango, Mexico and found her way to Los Angeles, CA at the young age of 2 years old, arriving with her undocumented family.

She has spent a lifetime advocating for DACA recipients and is one of the leading experts on the issue and a noted advocate. She graduated from Los Angeles High School and was the first in her family to attend college, obtaining her degree in Clinical-Psychology.

Garcia is devoted to public service and works to educate high school students on the LGBTQ+ community. 

She is an AHF Ambassador and AHF Pharmacy Representative & Community Liaison for prevention and care of HIV.

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Jingle & Mingle holidays event in West Hollywood at Heart

The Los Angeles Blade & Latino Outreach Understanding Division announce a special holiday party at Heart WeHo on December 22, 2023

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LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Blade and Latino Outreach and Understanding Division are proud to announce a special holiday party at Heart WeHo on December 22, 2023 from 8PM.

We are celebrating the LGBTQ immigration community of Los Angeles: Asylum Seekers, DACA beneficiaries, Undocumented folks and their loved ones and supporters.

We’re hoping you’ll come and bring lots of cheer and a sense of family at this especially important time.

We are grateful for the support we have received from the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Latino Outreach and Understanding Division, the office of LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis and Equality California for this special, first of its kind event.

And hope you will help us get the word out! Please share!

Everyone is welcome and we look forward to celebrating their stories and the holidays with you at Heart WeHo on Friday, December 22, 2023 from 8PM.

Celebración navideña para la comunidad LGBTQ de inmigrantes en Los Ángeles

¡Únase a nosotros para una celebración navideña festiva e inclusiva! Estamos emocionados de reunir a la comunidad de inmigrantes LGBTQ de Los Ángeles para un evento alegre en Heart Weho. Ubicado en Santa Monica Boulevard en West Hollywood, CA, EE. UU., este vibrante lugar crea el escenario perfecto para nuestra reunión.

Para muchos miembros de la comunidad LGBTQ que enfrentan problemas de inmigración, Diciembre y la temporada navideña pueden llegar a ser difíciles y solitarios.

Así que, si te encuentras en esa situación, queremos invitarte a ti y a tus seres queridos a unirse a nosotros para una velada especial en la que celebraremos tu valiente viaje a este país.

Esta es una oportunidad única para conocer a otras personas con historias similares a la tuya.

A veces, simplemente poder hablar con otros con situaciones similares sirve de estimulo. Aqui encontraras solicitantes de asilo, beneficiarios de DACA y personas indocumentadas, quienes compartiran sus experiencias y quienes podran brindarte esperanza, aliento y alegría.

Contaremos con una invitada sorpresa que estamos seguros nos llenara de alegria y esplendor.

Esperamos que te unas a nosotros para una noche divertida e informativa con comida, música, entretenimiento, un panel informativo y oportunidades de networking. ¡Nunca sabes a quién podras conocer!

Ofreceremos algo de comida ligera y bebidas, así que solo tienes que presentarte y disfrutar.

Esta es una oportunidad increíble para conectarte con personas como tú y celebrar las festividades con amor.

¡Tu perteneces aquí!

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Queerceañera: Celebrating LAtinx Heritage Month

Queerceañera is an inclusive take on the coming-of-age quinceañera tradition throughout Latin America and the United States

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Queerceañera hosted by RuPaul's Drag Race Season 15 alum, Salina EsTitties. (Photo-Graphic Credit: Los Angeles LGBT Center)

LOS ANGELES – Get Ready, LA! This September, the Center will host its inaugural Latinx Heritage Month commemoration with Queerceañera (queer-seh for short), an inclusive take on the coming-of-age quinceañera tradition throughout Latin America and the United States.

Hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 15 alum, Salina EsTitties, our Queerce is a cultural summit and community cotillion rooted in accessibility and unbridled celebration; quinceañeras are often regarded as out-of-reach status symbols, and our event breaks the gender norms and structures of said celebrations. Both vibrant and bold, Queerce will spotlight LA’s richly diverse queer, Latinx diasporic experiences.

RuPaul’s Drag Race México host Valentina will be honored at the event, kicking off a year-long ambassadorship with the Center to uplift and support outreach within the Latinx community. She will sit down for a keynote conversation with Mexican-Native American entertainer, Miss Benny. The duo will be honored for their trailblazing work in entertainment as breakout, culture-shifting nonbinary and trans artists, respectively.

PROGRAM

● 5:30PM – Doors + Bars Open

● 6:00—7:15PM – Quince-style cocktail reception and a mixer in our courtyard, and then guests will be escorted into our Renberg Theatre.

● 7:15—8:30PM – Emceed by celebrity host Salina EsTitties, the stage program will consist of show stopping performances, special honoree presentation and keynote conversations with influential figures from the LAtinx community.

● 8:30—10:30PM – Tiempo de Vals — the post-program offers more cocktails and surprise live performance elements in the courtyard for guests to enjoy before dancing into the evening.

ASL provided for the program. Event venue is wheelchair accessible.

Date and time

Friday, September 29 · 5:30 – 10:30pm PDT

Location

The Village at Ed Gould Plaza1125 N McCadden Place Los Angeles, CA 90038

More event + special guest announcements coming soon!

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PFLAG Parent Day is Sunday, July 23, presented on ABC stations

“PFLAG Parent Day is a celebration of families & the parenting- all of us can work together to create a world where everyone is celebrated”

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PFLAG Parent Day graphic courtesy of PFLAG

WASHINGTON – This National Parents’ Day, Sunday July 23rd, PFLAG National will highlight the parenting people who lead with love in support of LGBTQ+ people of all ages with a special presentation of PFLAG Parent Day across ABC Owned Television Stations’ platforms and PFLAG National social channels. 

PFLAG Parent Day, now in its third year, is a special event to celebrate LGBTQ+ affirming parents and all the people who fill a parenting role for LGBTQ+ kids of all ages. Follow the stories of families, advocates, educators, artists and communities across the country who show up each day to fight for love and justice in their own backyards.

“PFLAG Parent Day is a celebration of families and the parenting people fighting for a better world,” said Brian K. Bond, Executive Director of PFLAG National. “Ultimately, it’s a reminder: all of us can work together to create a world where everyone is celebrated, empowered and loved.” 

In 2023, LGBTQ+ people and their families have faced an unprecedented volume of attacks—including threats to their lives, livelihoods, and civil rights—in every state across the country. Inspired by the same unconditional love that urged PFLAG founder Jeanne Manford and other parents to get off the curb and march alongside their LGBTQ+ loved ones 50 years ago, parenting people in 2023 are taking action and fighting back.

The PFLAG Parent Day presentation—which will premiere on PFLAG National and ABC Owned Television Station streaming platforms—is produced by PFLAG National with support from the ABC Owned Television Stations. Philip D’Amour (2023 White House Correspondents DinnerThe Grio Awards) serves as Executive Producer.

 

The special event will air on PFLAG National social channels, and as follows across the eight ABC Owned Television Station platforms:

Website links:

PFLAG Parent Day 2023:

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Events

The Original Farmers Market & The Grove will host Pride Night 

NSYNC’s iconic member Lance Bass will kick off the event announcing a pet parade and adoption event hosted by Wags & Walks

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Photo courtesy of The Grove- Where L.A. Comes Together ®

LOS ANGELES – In celebration of Pride Month, The Original Farmers Market and The Grove will host Pride Night on Friday, June 30, presented by Afterpay, bringing together the LGBTQIA+ community for a night of festive bingo, live entertainment, disco dancing under the stars and more.

Beginning at 5PM on Gilmore Lane where The Original Farmers Market and The Grove meet, the street will transform into a sequin-filled disco oasis with Pride-themed décor, a rainbow dance floor, live music and several festive photo moments. 

NSYNC’s iconic member Lance Bass will kick off the event announcing a pet parade and adoption event hosted by Wags & Walks. Guest will enjoy an array of sips and bites from renowned vendors of The Original Farmers Market and The Grove as well as a lemonade stand from Afterpay.

Pop ups include a beer garden and food stand with El Granjero Cantina, and a variety of other food booths from favorite Market merchants including Kaylin + Kaylin Pickles, Fritzi Coop, Friends and Family Pizza, Michelina Bakery and Roxy and Jo’s Seafood.

The Grove’s beloved annual Pride Bingo will begin at 6:30PM. Tickets are $60 per person and include 10 rounds of bingo hosted by LA legend ‘Bingo Boy’ (Jeffrey Bowman), meal and beverage tickets and chances to win special prizes from some of The Grove’s favorite brands like Alo Yoga, Athletic Propulsion Labs, diptyque, Todd Snyder and more. Ticket proceeds will be donated to LA Pride.

As the sun begins to set, DJ Blake Cross will turn up the music for guests to dance the night away under the stars and sparkling lights.

Pride Night is sponsored by “buy now, pay later” service Afterpay. New and existing Afterpay customers who purchase Pride Bingo tickets will be reimbursed at check-in and enjoy complimentary gifting moments and benefits at the event. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit https://thegrovela.com/events/pride-night/.  

WHAT:                 Pride Night at The Original Farmers Market & The Grove, presented by Afterpay

WHEN:                Friday, June 30, 2023

Pet “Paw”rade  & Adoption: 5:00PM – 5:30PM

Food and Drink Pop-up’s from the Original Farmers Market: 5:00 – 9:00PM

Live Music from 80’s Band “Radio Rebel’s”: 5:30PM – 6:30PM

Bingo & Prizes: 6:30PM – 8:00PM

More Live Music, DJ & Dancing: 8:00PM – 9:30PM

WHERE:               Gilmore Lane in between The Original Farmers Market & The Grove

189 The Grove Drive

Los Angeles, CA 90036

ADMISSION:        Event entrance is complimentary and open to the public; food and beverages available for purchase

(1) Pride Bingo Ticket: $60

*Includes 10 rounds of bingo, meal and beverage tickets, swag bag, multiple photo opportunities and chances to win complimentary prizes from The Grove’s stores and restaurants

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