Do you think the Buggery Law should be?

The Safe House Homeless LGBTQ Project 2009 a detailed look & more


In response to numerous requests for more information on the defunct Safe House Pilot Project that was to address the growing numbers of displaced and homeless LGBTQ youth in Kingston in 2007/8/9, a review of the relevance of the project as a solution, the possible avoidance of present issues with some of its previous residents if it were kept open.
Recorded June 12, 2013; also see from the former Executive Director named in the podcast more background on the project: HERE also see the beginning of the issues from the closure of the project: The Quietus ……… The Safe House Project Closes and The Ultimatum on December 30, 2009

Friday, March 21, 2014

Tell Me Pastor responds to Disowned because of my bisexual lifestyle letter writer

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It is been a while since I paid much attention to pastor Dumas's column in the Star News as I am still convinced that some of those letters are not real or edited in such as way to gain readership, now comes this entry on what is supposed to be a dejected bisexual and if we are to go by the Pastor's day job as a psychologist then he ought to have known that homosexuality has been removed from the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, DSM long ago, 1973 in fact and that his personal religious views must never conflict with his profession.

Check out the letter firstly then his response below:


Dear Pastor,

I am a constant reader of your column and find your work very interesting. I believe the advice you give is accurate and straight to the point, so I am requesting your advice.

I am an 18-year-old male, living with my grandmother. most of my family is aware of the fact that I am bisexual. Ever since they found out, I have been expressing a do-not- care attitude to the world, meaning I don't care what anyone else thinks.

I am living my life the way I want to. I am a pre-university student. Before the Christmas holiday, I started to make some bad decisions. Apart from the life I live, I started to party every weekend and during the week, sometimes.

I have been consuming a lot of alcohol and smoking (not ganja)

Recently, my mother came from Canada and heard that I was with my boyfriend, coming from a club. My mother did not know of my sexuality.

We could not get a cab but, luckily, I saw my aunt and she took us home. She told my mother everything she saw.

My mom claimed she has disowned me. However, she never took care of me in the first place, so I don't let that be a bother to me.

I am indecisive as to what to do next because, in addition to my family knowing my lifestyle, the community I live in knows as well.

Please, express your thoughts on this matter.

Yours truly

Proudly confused
Pastor's response

Dear Proudly confused,

What are you proud about? If it is the lifestyle you love, why are you confused? You said you are bisexual and some of your relatives now know what you are doing. Your mother has decided to disown you. It is unfortunate she has taken that position. I suppose it has come as a shock to her.

Perhaps you do not believe what the Bible says about homosexuality. The Bible does not sanction that type of lifestyle. I can never encourage you to continue to make love with a person of your own sex. You may reject my suggestions but I believe God is able to change you. If you are determined to serve him, nothing is impossible for God to do.

I would, therefore, suggest you seriously consider seeing a Christian family counsellor or psychologist for professional help. I will be praying for you and I ask my readers to do the same.
Pastor

ENDS

So a Christian counsellor even in the face of clear evidence that homosexuality is not a disorder, really Pastor Duman? The repeated use of the word "lifestyle" in both the supposed letter and response is suspicious and disturbing as psychologists who are properly trained and even advocates who are exposed know that we are dealing with sexual orientation here as the "letter writer" did not give an indication of someone going through a phase or operation behaviourally bisexual which suggests they would be in such a practice merely for the fun of it due to previous same sex exposure in a situational setting or worse yet abuse.

We must call out these suspicious letters when we see them folks. A December 6th 2010 piece is available here from GLBTQ Jamaica Wordpress edition entitled "Tell Me Pastor" on bisexuality also treats bi issues as strange. Although we have gotten used to the pattern I think it is important to continue to track and point out these infractions coupled with the glaring inconsistencies at times as there are some folks who read Pastor Dumas's columns, blogs and follow his radio show ardently.

also see:

Tell Me Pastor recomends Restorative Psychology to Lesbian 2009

Another "Tell Me Pastor" Letter, (real or not?)

See the "Tell Me Pastor" tab immediately below this post for previous entries here as well.

Peace and tolerance

H

Love on the Wire – A Jamaican Gay Love Story Book

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By O’Brien Dennis

“Love on the Wire – A Jamaican Gay Love Story” is a love story set in Jamaica to challenge the class structure and the stereotype of a gay man. It suggests that a person who discovers that he is same-gender loving can dream, can aspire to love another of the same sex without fear of rejection and reprisals.

While this is a work of fiction, the aim is to change the view of homosexuals and homosexuality in a society with its cultural and religious norms, against the patina established by colonial masters, and to have readers enter into conversations about moving from tolerance, if it exists, to acceptance without reservation.

The book encourages the reader to examine him or herself and in the process, have an honest conversation about homosexuality, bi-sexuality, religion, politics, male sexual abuse and the prevailing stigma surrounding an HIV infection. It is my hope that readers, if they are heterosexual, or even if homosexual, would take the time to reexamine what it means to be homosexual and to realize that everyone has a right to be who he or she is, and to live the best life possible without fear of persecution and prosecution.

Beres Hammond's song “Love On The Wire” was my inspiration and am reminded of the many times my body was cut while going through barbed wires, physical and emotional, for love of another of the same sex. To get a personalized signed copy click on the following link https://squareup.com/market/obrien-dennis/love-on-the-wire-1

Other posts from the author on sister blog Gay Jamaica Watch:


go here: The Cries of Men


About the Author

O'Brien Dennis was born and raised in Jamaica, where he was a victim of male sexual abuse. As the executive director of the O'Brien Dennis Foundation, he researches sexual abuse and provides a safe haven for survivors and their families. He lives in Westchester County in New York State and is also the author of The Cries of Men: Voices of Jamaican Men Who Have Been Raped and Sexually Abused.

go here: Understanding Male Sexual Abuse: Why Men Remain Silent additional suggested reading the current case of a leading civil servant accused of homo-paedophilia in essence here in Jamaica and the shifting circumstances.

see: 

Youth Ministry official accused of homo-paedophile acts takes Minister, OCA & Public Services Commission to court

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Student gay sex video causes a stir in central Jamaica

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It was only Sunday at the ongoing Enterprise Training exercise with some forty young LGBT persons in the Sexuality session that we were discussing this very issue of safety, the use of, storage of and safety of persons with sexual materials on devices. Encryptions, hard to detect or decipher passwords, turning off ones bluetooth so one's phone cannot be accessed.

The Star News reported yesterday March 17 the above headline

Two male students from a prominent high school in central Jamaica have been implicated in a sex video which is being circulated like wildfire in sections of rural Jamaica over recent weeks.

THE STAR has learnt that the video has been making the rounds especially in the community where the school is located and has not only been angering students and teachers, but also residents, especially those who have a close relationship with the institution.

It is learnt that the video, which can be seen on several cellular phones in central Jamaica, shows the two boys, who are said to be second-form students, having anal and oral sex.

It is understood that the disgusting sex video with the boys has angered scores of other students at the school and the two have been threatened that they will be beaten if they continue to show up on the school premises.

The boys, who were in their uniform in the sex video, are reportedly unable to move around on the school compound freely, as they are mocked, jeered, and even have implements thrown at them by other boys.

It is also understood that in an effort to avoid the students being beaten, the boys have been given protection by security personnel on the school compound.


THE STAR has learnt that other students are calling for the two to be removed from the institution.

The circulation of the video has followed closely on the heels of the circulation of another sex video involving female students from another central Jamaica high school some weeks ago. That video also caused a stir across the island and angered residents of the community where the institution is located.

ENDS

Sadly another one has occurred it was only earlier this year another such reported case of gay sex by teens came about but was not carried in the Star, the protection and storage of such sensitive sex tapes as it were is a cause for concern as some persons do not seem to understand the ease of manipulation of said materials with hackers and around and as indicated above open source access unbeknownst to the instrument's owner such as bluetooth access. How did the video leak is unclear but I strongly suspect it was lifted from the phone by some other party who knew of or came across it while hacking the device as has happened before. I gather that some intervention has been enacted but whether they will be moved or if their parents will continue cordial relations with them is unclear, I fear another case or cases of displacement coming from this.

flashback to 2006 at the University of the West Indies


A section of a large crowd which gathered to witness the beating of a man at the UWI campus yesterday. - ANDREW WILDES Right: The windscreen of a police vehicle which was shattered by one of the many stones flung at the police by students after the police rescued a man accused of being a homosexual. We have seen similar cases on campuses and schools one can remember the Dunoon High matter and the father of a gay youth who came to out him literally setting other students to beat him. 

In 2010 a case of a tertiary level student who had to flee due to a leaked tape as well:

then ..........

A third-year student of a tertiary level institution was forced to flee the dorm and the school recently, after a tape on which he allegedly confessed his homosexuality was released around the campus via bluetooth technology.

THE STAR was informed that the student, Pedro Lee*, who was doing a guidance-counselling course, was tricked into revealing his secret lifestyle by another student who pretended to be gay and secured the trust and confidence of the young man.

The tape, which made its rounds on the campus in late November into early December, was about 30 minutes long and involved the student sharing deep secrets and fantasies with the boy he thought was his new-found friend.

One student of the institution told THE STAR that Lee was a popular student, who was involved in several extra-curricular activities. She said, "He was involved in a lot of things, basically all the religious clubs". Lee lived on campus, where he also participated in many activities.

On the tape, the conversation suggests that Lee and the student had made previous plans to meet at a hotel, and Lee expressed his disappointment that the student did not turn up. The student also asked Lee how those around him would react if they knew he was gay, to which he responded that many would be shocked and upset.

Lee also declares the things he would do to the student if they ever had the chance to be alone, saying he would lick him "from the toes straight up". The student also coerced Lee into sharing the names of those he found attractive.

Obviously convinced that the student was someone to be trusted, Lee revealed that he had a crush on his roommate, but admitted that he could not make a move as his roommate "is not into those type of things."

Further into the conversation things got a bit more graphic.

Students of the institution told THE STAR that Lee, after realising that his secret was out, fled the hall and also stopped attending his classes and failed to show up for his exams. On his Facebook page, he is seen wearing church attire and appears to be quite interested in Christianity.
*Name Changed

ENDS

Please be vigilant out there folks

Peace and tolerance

H

Sunday, March 16, 2014

Lesbians who Tech Summit USA

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The recently concluded Lesbians Who Tech summit has a Jamaican there who shared some highlights from the meetings with me; forgive me if I do not share photos of the Jamaican representative but due to safety reasons as she requested I will respect.






Over 800 queer women at the Lesbians Who Tech summit, held on February 28 in Castro Street Theatre in San Francisco. Founded in 2012 by Leanne Pittsford, the summit and monthly gatherings focus on increasing visibility and tech participation of queer women. The summit highlighted the next generation of queer women that are technical leaders as well as those who have paved our way.

The front of Castro Street Theatre was buzzing with enthusiasm early Friday morning. Volunteers were ready and eager to check in media, sponsors, speakers and attendees. Check-in was a seamless process through mobile phones. Once inside, there were bottles of water, coffee and pastries available. We loved the gender neutral “Whichever” restroom signs.


We were pleased to see some great sponsors there, including GE Software, Linkedin, Walmart Labs and Chevrolet, which provided a “recharge lounge” where we could charge our phones and laptops.

After an impressive and, at times, hilarious slideshow showing the diversity of queer women, Leanne Pittsford came onstage to welcome everyone and spoke about how she started Lesbians Who Tech. During the morning “skit”, she shared wine with the event’s emcee and her Platonic Partner for Life (PPL) Taryn Miller-Stevens (Business Development, TouchPoints). The room came alive with excitement as they talked about what was planned during the three-day summit.

The morning sessions featured an amazing lineup of speakers including Kathryn Finney (Founder, digitalundivided), Ann Mei Chang (Former Senior Advisor for Women and Technology, US Dept of State & Current Chief Innovation Officer, Mercy Corps), Sara Sperling (Diversity & Inclusion, Facebook), Lisa Sherman (Executive Vice President and General Manager Logo TV, Viacom Media Networks), Danielle Feinberg (Director of Photography, Pixar), Kronda Adair (a Programmer who crowdfunded her way to the summit), Erica Anderson (Twitter, Product Marketing, Pro Users), and Kathy Levinson, (Former COO, eTrade).



Sara Sperling, Diversity & Inclusion at Facebook

There were a couple of pitch sessions where spokespersons/founders were given three to five minutes to give an elevator speech of their organizations. The first pitch session, “Social Good Pitches” gave five social good organizations several minutes to share how they are using technology to change the world for women, the LGBT community and people of color. It resulted in an impromptu “crowdfunding” from the attendees. Megan Smith (Vice President at Google[x]) offered $25,000 with one caveat, each conference attendee give to the non-profits for the rest of our lives. The funds were split equally between Code2040, AllOut, Chicana Latina Foundation, National Center for Lesbians Rights, and Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice. It was an amazing feeling knowing that we are supporting each other’s causes and helping each other rise up.

Around lunch time, attendees had the option of six breakout sessions located at various locations. These were pre-determined in the registration and were color-coded on our badges. Topics varied between Coders Connect at Catch Restaurant hosted by Google, Ignite Sessions Lunch at the theater hosted by SAP, Fireside Chat: Where Are the Women Investors?: Why We Need More Women to Become Investors at the theater, Meet + Greet + Eat: Queers in Media at Firewood Cafe and Leveraging LinkedIn to Enhance Your Professional Brand at Dante’s Table Restaurant hosted by LinkedIn.

We participated in the Ignite Sessions Lunch where we heard five –minute presentations hosted by Moya Watson (Innovation Product Manager, SAP). The topics touched upon LGBT leadership at work, utilizing a hashtag to start a movement, ensuring diversity in recruiting and sharing our hope for the future of women in technology.

The afternoon sessions included Heather Hiles (Founder & CEO, Pathbrite) and Jana Rich (Managing Director, Russell Reynolds). Hiles reflected on innovations as a founder. She spoke about giving it all and taking action for our careers. “ Why not go for big if you’re going to put in all the effort anyway”, said Hiles. Rich spoke about the importance of digital women and our power to transform boards in organizations.

The second pitch session, The Entrepreneur Pitch, gave five amazing lesbian entrepreneurs a chance to pitch their companies and applications they are building in front of a panel of judges including investors and fellow entrepreneurs. The presenters included Allie Esslinger (Section II), Krys Freeman (HellaRides), Robyn Exton (Dattch) and Rachel Wolan (YadaZing). The competition was judged by Jordan Crook (TechCrunch, Reporter), Christie George (New Media Ventures), Dave McClure (500 Startups) and Amanda Reed (Palomar Ventures & Astia). A highlight of the pitch competition was Dave McClure telling Robyn Exton (Dattch), “we should talk”, a huge and very public nod of approval from an investor.

The winner of the Entrepreneur Pitch Session, Robyn Exton from Dattch (third from left), with emcee Taryn Miller-Stevens, Leanne Pittsford (Founder Lesbians Who Tech) , Jordan Crook (TechCrunch), Amanda Reed (Palomar Ventures), Christie George (New Media Ventures), and Dave McClure (500 Startups)

After the comedic break, Dattch, a dating and social network for lesbians, bisexual and bicurious women was announced as the winner of the $2,500 competition. After honing its product in London, it officially launched in San Francisco, the day of the summit. It draws comparison with Pinterest in user interface with its emphasis on photos. Unlike Grindr, it’s not a proximity-based social networking app. We found it funny when the emcee made several jokes throughout the night about the real reason many of the women were there, to find other nerdy/techie/geeky queer women to date! We weren’t surprised at the interest in Dattch because of the techie crowd. Although it currently caters to bisexual and lesbian women, the app may expand to include trans*, genderqueer individuals and non-binary folks.

The afternoon keynotes were a real highlight, where some real heavy hitters shared their stories and point of view. Megan Smith (Google[x) encouraged attendees to strive for “moonshot thinking”; Kara Swisher (re/code.net) assured women that it’s OK to be frustrated, and you can use that frustration to propel you to greatness; and Danae Ringelmann (Indiegogo) talked about how to create a culture that has meaning and encourages the best in employees.

Related Posts with Thumbnails

AddThis

Podcasts You may have missed or want to re-listen




A look at the fear of the feminine (Effemophobia) by Jamaican standards & how it drives the homo-negative perceptions/homophobia in Jamaican culture/national psyche.



and



After catching midway a radio discussion on the subject of Jamaica being labelled as homophobic I did a quick look at the long held belief in Jamaica by anti gay advocates, sections of media and homophobes that several murders of alleged gay victims are in fact 'crimes of passion' or have jealousy as their motives but it is not as simple or generalized as that.

Listen without prejudice to this and other podcasts on one of my Soundcloud channels

More uploads




Aphrodite’s PRIDE JA tackles gender identity, transgender misconceptions .....



Nationwide New Network, NNN devoted some forty five minutes of prime time yesterday evening to discuss the issue and help listeners to at least begin to process some of the information coming from the most public declaration exercise as done by Jenner. Guests on the show were Dr Karen Carpenter Board Certified Clinical Sexologist and Psychologist, ‘Satiba’ from Aphrodite’s P.R.I.D.E Jamaica of which I am affiliated and Lecturer (Sociologist) and host of Every Woman on the station Georgette Crawford Williams (sister of PNP member of parliament Damian Crawford); one of the first questions thrown at Satiba by host Cliff Hughes was why has Jenna waited so long at 65 years old to make such a life changing decision?

Satiba responded that many transwomen have to hide their true identity in life .... given her life when she was younger she was a star athlete she would have been under tremendous precious to stay in from the expectations by the public and her team etc, also owing to the fact that she had a family as a man with children one may not want to upset the flow at that time until the kids are old enough. There is a lot of burden of guilt that some persons carry in weighing the decisions of coming out or transitioning so suppression of one’s true self is the modus operandi.

Dr Carpenter cautioned after a heated exchange:

“We really must remember as professionals we must stay in our lane I will never pronounce as a Sociologist cause I am not a Sociologist ............When we have an opportunity to speak publicly we must be careful of what we say unless it is extremely well informed......”


Aphrodite's P.R.I.D.E Jamaica, APJ launched their website


Aphrodite's P.R.I.D.E Jamaica, APJ launched their website on December 1 2015 on World AIDS Day where they hosted a docu-film and after discussions on the film Human Vol 1






audience members interacting during a break in the event


film in progress

visit the new APJ website HERE

See posts on APJ's work: HERE (newer entries will appear first so scroll to see older ones)

Dr Shelly Ann Weeks on Homophobia - What are we afraid of?


Former host of Dr Sexy Live on Nationwide radio and Sexologist tackles in a simplistic but to the point style homophobia and asks the poignant question of the age, What really are we as a nation afraid of?


It seems like homosexuality is on everyone's tongue. From articles in the newspapers to countless news stories and commentaries, it seems like everyone is talking about the gays. Since Jamaica identifies as a Christian nation, the obvious thought about homosexuality is that it is wrong but only male homosexuality seems to influence the more passionate responses. It seems we are more open to accepting lesbianism but gay men are greeted with much disapproval.

Dancehall has certainly been very clear where it stands when it comes to this issue with various songs voicing clear condemnation of this lifestyle. Currently, quite a few artistes are facing continuous protests because of their anti-gay lyrics. Even the law makers are involved in the gayness as there have been several calls for the repeal of the buggery law. Recently Parliament announced plans to review the Sexual Offences Act which, I am sure, will no doubt address homosexuality.

Jamaica has been described as a homophobic nation. The question I want to ask is: What are we afraid of? There are usually many reasons why homosexuality is such a pain in the a@. Here are some of the more popular arguments MORE HERE

also see:
Dr Shelly Ann Weeks on Gender Identity & Sexual Orientation


Sexuality - What is yours?

Promised conscience vote was a fluke from the PNP ........



SO WE WERE DUPED EH? - the suggestion of a conscience vote on the buggery law as espoused by Prime Minister (then opposition leader) in the 2011 leadership debate preceding the last national elections was a dangling carrot for a dumb donkey to follow.

Many advocates and individuals interpreted Mrs Simpson Miller's pronouncements as a promise or a commitment to repeal or at least look at the archaic buggery law but I and a few others who spoke openly dismissed it all from day one as nothing more than hot air especially soon after in February member of parliament Damian Crawford poured cold water on the suggestion/promise and said it was not a priority as that time. and who seems to always open his mouth these days and revealing his thoughts that sometimes go against the administration's path.

I knew from then that as existed before even under the previous PM P. J. Patterson (often thought to be gay by the public) also danced around the issue as this could mean votes and loss of political power. Mrs Simpson Miller in the meantime was awarded a political consultants' democracy medal as their conference concludes in Antigua.


War of words between pro & anti gay activists on HIV matters .......... what hypocrisy is this?



War of words between pro & anti gay activists on HIV matters .......... what hypocrisy is this?

A war of words has ensued between gay lawyer (AIDSFREEWORLD) Maurice Tomlinson and anti gay activist Dr Wayne West (supposed in-laws of sorts) as both accuse each other of lying or being dishonest, when deception has been neatly employed every now and again by all concerned, here is the post from Dr West's blog

This is laughable to me in a sense as both gentleman have broken the ethical lines of advocacy respectively repeatedly especially on HIV/AIDS and on legal matters concerning LGBTQ issues

The evidence is overwhelming readers/listeners, you decide.


Fast forward 2015 and the exchanges continue in a post from Dr Wayne West: Maurice Tomlinson misrepresents my position on his face book page and Blog 76Crimes

Tomlinson's post originally was:






Urgent Need to discuss sex & sexuality II






Following a cowardly decision by the Minister(try) of Education to withdraw an all important Health Family Life, HFLE Manual on sex and sexuality

I examine the possible reasons why we have the homo-negative challenges on the backdrop of a missing multi-generational understanding of sexuality and the focus on sexual reproductive activity in the curriculum.

also see:

and





Calls for Tourism Boycotts are Nonsensical at This Time





(2014 protests New York)

Calling for boycotts by overseas based Jamaican advocates who for the most part are not in touch with our present realities in a real way and do not understand the implications of such calls can only seek to make matters worse than assisting in the struggle, we must learn from, the present economic climate of austerity & tense calm makes it even more sensible that persons be cautious, will these groups assist when there is fallout?, previous experiences from such calls made in 2008 and 2009 and the near diplomatic nightmare that missed us; especially owing to the fact that many of the victims used in the public advocacy of violence were not actual homophobic cases which just makes the ethics of advocacy far less credible than it ought to be.

See more explained HERE from a previous post following the Queen Ifrica matter and how it was mishandled

Newstalk 93FM's Issues On Fire: Polygamy Should Be Legalized In Jamaica 08.04.14



debate by hosts and UWI students on the weekly program Issues on Fire on legalizing polygamy with Jamaica's multiple partner cultural norms this debate is timely.

Also with recent public discourse on polyamorous relationships, threesomes (FAME FM Uncensored) and on social.

Some Popular Posts

Are you ready to fight for gay rights and freedoms?? (multiple answers are allowed)

Did U Find This Blog Informative???

Blog Roll

What do you think is the most important area of HIV treatment research today?

Do you think Lesbians could use their tolerance advantage to help push for gay rights in Jamaica??

Violence & venom force gay Jamaicans to hide



a 2009 Word focus report where the history of the major explosion of homeless MSM occurred and references to the party DVD that was leaked to the bootleg market which exposed many unsuspecting patrons to the public (3:59), also the caustic remarks made by former member of Parliament in the then JLP administration.

The agencies at the time were also highlighted and the homo negative and homophobic violence met by ordinary Jamaican same gender loving men.

The late founder of the CVC, former ED of JASL and JFLAG Dr. Robert Carr was also interviewed.

At 4:42 that MSM was still homeless to 2012 but has managed to eek out a living but being ever so cautious as his face is recognizable from the exposed party DVD, he has been slowly making his way to recovery despite the very slow pace.

Thanks for your Donations

Hello readers,

Thank you for your donations via Paypal in helping to keep this blog going, my limited frontline community work, temporary shelter assistance at my home and related costs. Please continue to support me and my allies in this venture that has now become a full time activity. When I first started blogging in late 2007 it was just as a pass time to highlight GLBTQ issues in Jamaica under then JFLAG's blogspot page but now clearly there is a need for more forumatic activity which I want to continue to play my part while raising more real life issues pertinent to us.

Donations presently are accepted via Paypal where buttons are placed at points on this blog(immediately below, GLBTQJA (Blogspot), GLBTQJA (Wordpress) and the Gay Jamaica Watch's blog as well. If you wish to send donations otherwise please contact: glbtqjamaica@live.com or lgbtevent@gmail.com



Activities & Plans: ongoing and future
  • Work with other Non Governmental organizations old and new towards similar focus and objectives

  • To find common ground on issues affecting GLBTQ and straight friendly persons in Jamaica towards tolerance and harmony

  • Exposing homophobic activities and suggesting corrective solutions

  • Continuing discussion on issues affecting GLBTQ people in Jamaica and elsewhere

  • Welcoming, examining and implementing suggestions and ideas from you the viewing public

  • Present issues on HIV/AIDS related matters in a timely and accurate manner

  • Assist where possible victims of homophobic violence and abuse financially, temporary shelter(my home) and otherwise

  • Track human rights issues in general with a view to support for ALL
Thanks again for your support.

Tel: 1-876-841-2923




Peace

Information & Disclaimer


Individuals who are mentioned or whose photographs appear on this site are not necessarily Homosexual, HIV positive or have AIDS.

This blog contains pictures that may be disturbing. We have taken the liberty to present these images as evidence of the numerous accounts of homophobic violence meted out to alleged gays in Jamaica.

Faces and names withheld for the victims' protection.

This blog not only watches and covers LGBTQ issues in Jamaica and elsewhere but also general human rights and current affairs where applicable.

This blog contains HIV prevention messages that may not be appropriate for all audiences.

If you are not seeking such information or may be offended by such materials, please view labels, post list or exit.

Since HIV infection is spread primarily through sexual practices or by sharing needles, prevention messages and programs may address these topics.

This blog is not designed to provide medical care, if you are ill, please seek medical advice from a licensed practitioner

Thanks so much for your kind donations and thoughts.

As for some posts, they contain enclosure links to articles, blogs and or sites for your perusal, use the snapshot feature to preview by pointing the cursor at the item(s) of interest. Such item(s) have a small white dialogue box icon appearing to their top right hand side.

Recent Homophobic Cases

CLICK HERE for related posts/labels and HERE from the gayjamaicawatch's BLOG containing information I am aware of. If you know of any such reports or incidents please contact lgbtevent@gmail.com or call 1-876-841-2923

Peace to you and be safe out there.

Love.


What to do if you are attacked (News You Can Use)


First, be calm: Do not panic; it may be very difficult to maintain composure if attacked but this is important.

Try to reason with the attacker: Establish communication with the person. This takes a lot of courage. However, a conversation may change the intention of an attacker.

Do not try anything foolish: If you know outmaneuvering the attacker is impossible, do not try it.

Do not appear to be afraid: Look the attacker in the eye and demonstrate that you are not fearful.

This may have a psychological effect on the individual.

Emergency numbers

The police 119

Kingfish 811

Crime Stop 311

Steps to Take When Contronted or Arrested by Police


a) Ask to see a lawyer or Duty Council

b) Only give name and address and no other information until a lawyer is present to assist

c) Try to be polite even if the scenario is tensed) Don’t do anything to aggravate the situation

e) Every complaint lodged at a police station should be filed and a receipt produced, this is not a legal requirement but an administrative one for the police to track reports

f) Never sign to a statement other than the one produced by you in the presence of the officer(s)

g) Try to capture a recording of the exchange or incident or call someone so they can hear what occurs, place on speed dial important numbers or text someone as soon as possible

h) File a civil suit if you feel your rights have been violated. When making a statement to the police have all or most of the facts and details together for e.g. "a car" vs. "the car" represents two different descriptions

j) Avoid having the police writing the statement on your behalf except incases of injuries, make sure what you want to say is recorded carefully, ask for a copy if it means that you have to return for it

What to do


a. Make a phone call: to a lawyer or relative or anyone

b. Ask to see a lawyer immediately: if you don’t have the money ask for a Duty Council

c. A Duty Council is a lawyer provided by the state

d. Talk to a lawyer before you talk to the police

e. Tell your lawyer if anyone hits you and identify who did so by name and number

f. Give no explanations excuses or stories: you can make your defense later in court based on what you and your lawyer decided

g. Ask the sub officer in charge of the station to grant bail once you are charged with an offence

h. Ask to be taken before a justice of The Peace immediately if the sub officer refuses you bail

i. Demand to be brought before a Resident Magistrate and have your lawyer ask the judge for bail

j. Ask that any property taken from you be listed and sealed in your presence

Cases of Assault:An assault is an apprehension that someone is about to hit you

The following may apply:

1) Call 119 or go to the station or the police arrives depending on the severity of the injuries

2) The report must be about the incident as it happened, once the report is admitted as evidence it becomes the basis for the trial

3) Critical evidence must be gathered as to the injuries received which may include a Doctor’s report of the injuries.

4) The description must be clearly stated; describing injuries directly and identifying them clearly, show the doctor the injuries clearly upon the visit it must be able to stand up under cross examination in court.

5) Misguided evidence threatens the credibility of the witness during a trial; avoid the questioning of the witnesses credibility, the tribunal of fact must be able to rely on the witness’s word in presenting evidence

6) The court is guided by credible evidence on which it will make it’s finding of facts

7) Bolster the credibility of a case by a report from an independent disinterested party.

Sexual Health / STDs News From Medical News Today

VACANT AT LAST! SHOEMAKERGULLY: DISPLACED MSM/TRANS PERSONS WERE IS CLEARED DECEMBER 2014





CVM TV carried a raid and subsequent temporary blockade exercise of the Shoemaker Gully in the New Kingston district as the authorities respond to the bad eggs in the group of homeless/displaced or idling MSM/Trans persons who loiter there for years.

Question is what will happen to the population now as they struggle for a roof over their heads and food etc. The Superintendent who proposed a shelter idea (that seemingly has been ignored by JFLAG et al) was the one who led the raid/eviction.

Also see:
the CVM NEWS Story HERE on the eviction/raid taken by the police

also see a flashback to some of the troubling issues with the populations and the descending relationships between JASL, JFLAG and the displaced/homeless GBT youth in New Kingston: Rowdy Gays Strike - J-FLAG Abandons Raucous Homosexuals Misbehaving In New Kingston

also see all the posts in chronological order by date from Gay Jamaica Watch HERE and GLBTQ Jamaica HERE

GLBTQJA (Blogger): HERE

see previous entries on LGBT Homelessness from the Wordpress Blog HERE

May 22, 2015 update, see: MP Seeks Solutions For Homeless Gay Youth In New Kingston



THE BEST OF & Recommended Audioposts/Podcasts


THE BEST OF & Recommended Audioposts/Podcasts 




The Prime Minister (Golding) on Same Sex Marriages and the Charter of Rights Debate (2009)


Other sides to the msm homeless saga (2012)


Rowdy Gays Matter 21.08.11 more HERE



Ethical Professionlism & LGBT Advocates 01.02.12 more HERE


Portia Simpson Miller - SIMPSON MILLER DEFENDS GAY COMMENT 23.12.11


2 SGL Women lost, corrective rape and virtual silence from the male dominated advocacy structure


Al Miller on UK Aid & The Abnormality of Homosexuality 19.11.11


Homosexuality is Not Illegal in Jamaica .... Buggery is despite the persons gender 12.11.11 MORE HERE 


MSM Homelessness 2011 ...my two cents


Black Friday for Gays in Jamaica More HERE


Bi-phobia by default from supposed LGBT advocate structures?


Homeless MSMs Saga Timeline 28.08.11 (HOT!!!) see more HERE


A Response to Al Miller's Abnormality of Homosexuality statement 19.11.11


UK/commonwealth Aid Matter & The New Developments, no aid cuts but redirecting, ethical problems on our part - 22.11.11


Homophobic Killings versus Non Homophobic Killings 12.07.12


Big Lies, Crisis Archiving & More MSM Homlessness Issues 12.07.12


More MSM Challenges July 2012 more sounds HERE


GLBTQ Jamaica 2011 Summary 02.01.12 more HERE


Homosexuality Destroying the Family? .............. I Think Not!


Lesbian issues left out of the Jamaican advocacy thrust until now?


Club Heavens The Rebirth 12.02.12 and more HERE


Should gov't provide shelter for homeless msm?


National attitudes to gays survey shows 78% of J'cans say NO to buggery repeal


1st Anniversary of Homeless MSM civil disobedience (Aug 23/4) 2012 more HERE


JFLAG's rejection of rowdy homeless msms & the Sept 21st standoff .........


Atheism & Secularism may cloud the struggle for lgbt rights in Jamaica more HERE


Urgent Need to discuss sex & sexuality II and more HERE


MSM Community Displacement Concerns October 2012


The UTECH abuse & related issues


Beenieman's hypocrisy & his fake apology in his own words and more HERE


Guarded about JFLAG's Homeless shelter


Homophobia & homelessness matters for November 2012 ................


Cabinet delays buggery review, says it's not a priority & more ...........................(November 2012) prior to the announcement of the review in parliament in June 2013 More sounds HERE


"Dutty Mind" used in Patois Bible to describe homosexuals


Homeless impatient with agencies over slow progress for promised shelter 2012 More HERE


George Davis Live - Dr Wayne West & Carole Narcisse on JCHS' illogical fear


Homeless MSM Issues in New Kgn Jan 2013 .......


Homeless MSM challenges in Jamaica February 2013 more HERE


JFLAG Excludes Homeless MSM from IDAHOT Symposium on Homelessness 2013


Poor leadership & dithering are reasons for JFLAG & Jamaica AIDS Support’s temporary homelessness May 2013 more HERE


Response To Flagging a Dead Horse Free Speech & Gay Rights 10.06.13